Braves

By Runnin

August 17, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this

Go Braves!

By McFann Ô

August 17, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the new blog, Ms. Rogers! Nice story on Francoeur.

First?

By Diamondback.Mac

August 17, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this

Hey, just checked some stats and did a little basic math and found out that if Hampton had as many at bats as Chipper he’d have 152 rbi’s.

By flange1

August 17, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this

Carroll,

Thanks for the new blog.

I appreciate the story on Frenchy. It is things like that that give a real perspective on the man behind the uniform.

I think folks might be a little less apt to get personal with their attacks when they here great stories like this one.

Again, kudos to Uga-brave for his Frenchy prediction.

I actually look forward to seeing Jo Jo pitch in ATlanta again. I think he has a ton of potential and hope he can show off a little better command. Don’t nibble. just go after the Mutts…

It would be nice to see 2 in a row and a win over Linecum would be great….

By Vol

August 17, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this

Is there a way to tell if the Braves have claimed anyone of significance off waivers? Not that it ever amounts to much, but I am curious.

By Carroll Rogers

August 17, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this

McFann i guess that answers my question about whether you are as apt to blog with McCann getting a day off….you’re equal opportunity. well done.

if it’s possible to give up cheap doubles, morton has given up two of them - on a ball blanco nearly caught by emmanuel burris and then Aaron Rowand’s broken bat bloop. nothing cheap about the homer tho, a major league first for travis ishikawa.

By ppaddy123

August 17, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this

I’ve said it before and I will say it again……….Brian McCann needs to be moved to 1st base. Today’s game is a prime example why. Bobby gives him the day off because we’re playing a day game after a night game. That takes his bat out of the line up, and right now, we really need it every game.

By hk

August 17, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

… current ‘MVP’ (Runs + HR’s + RBI’s) …

… projected year-end values …

http://www.mindspring.com/~hk3/mvp08a.htm

By McFann Ô

August 17, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

Thanks, Ms. Rogers. Yeah, I’m still gonna stick around…

Any reason why he’s getting another day off? Or is it just the DGANG (Day Game After a Night Game) thing?

Thanks!

By Wayne in Utah

August 17, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this

flange: I too am looking forward to seeing Ho-Ho pitch on Tuesday. I think he is part of our future versus a guy like Buddy C. Although I appreciate what Buddy has done, he is not going to be a vital cog in this rotation.

As for bloggers not getting personal with players, we can only hope…

By Pat

August 17, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this

How nice it is to see McCann get a break and not have to see Corky Miller hit in his place. Sorry, Erin.

By keylargo

August 17, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

McFann

I hate to put you on the spot, but I’m going to! 8)

Who do you pull for in college football?

By McFann Ô

August 17, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this

ppaddy123—

His numbers wouldn’t be as impressive if they were coming from first base…

By Coach ( Skip will be missed)

August 17, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this

Frankie Frisch career BA is .316, the highest average for any switch hitter in MLB history.

By McFann Ô

August 17, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this

Keylargo—

No prob. I pull for Georgia Tech—that’s where my Dad went. I’m not real into football, but I like to watch them sometimes.

By Carroll Rogers

August 17, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

just day game after a night game, mcfann. and the off day Thursday was because he’d caught both games of the doubleheader wednesday. …

ppaddy, i hear what you’re saying but is this game like the end-all-be-all? is there a race going on that i don’t know about? part of what makes mccann so value is because he’s such a good hitter as a catcher. and besides, it’s what he enjoys. and he’s young. nothing’s failing him physically to warrant a move over there. you guys are just understandably greedy for his bat every day. braves need to get a couple more.

By Coach ( Skip will be missed)

August 17, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this

Frisch is in the Hall of Fame. Chipper Jones is second in BA as a switch hitter at .310.

Interestingly enough, Pete Rose and Lance Berkman are tied for third at .303

By bravos2249

August 17, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this

Good vision or not Frenchy has consistently not been able to pick up balls off the bat.

By fieldofdreams

August 17, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this

Trade Chipper before he breaks. Oh sure, he’s still a Chip off the old block but we’re building a new wave of Braves. Finishing Chipper’s great career as a DH for an AL contender probably insures his date with the Hall of Fame. With Chipper as bait, the Braves need to hook PITCHING, PITCHING, and more PITCHING. Jurrgens is our only keeper, the rest of our staff are strictly catch and release. Who knows, maybe Chipper returns as our next manager?

By Chop Chop

August 17, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this

McFann,

None of my family went to Tech, but they’re all Tech fans. I’m a Dawg fan.

I knew there was something wrong with you…

Ha.

By jb

August 17, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

ppdaddy123

Why exactly do we need McCann’s bat every game? We’re out of the playoff contention…

By MIke

August 17, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this

Why I continue to follow this team I have no idea… but can they at least look like they give a crap. Our pitching staff is such a joke I don’t even know where to begin. Morton stinks, Reyes stinks, James stinks, Glavine’s done. It’s ridiculous. I’m so sick of hearing announcers, front office people, and announcers say that some of these young guys have great potential. Give me a break. I have seen nothing from any of these clowns to make me believe we have any chance next year either.

By MIke

August 17, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this

Why I continue to follow this team I have no idea… but can they at least look like they give a crap. Our pitching staff is such a joke I don’t even know where to begin. Morton stinks, Reyes stinks, James stinks, Glavine’s done. It’s ridiculous. I’m so sick of hearing announcers, front office people, and announcers say that some of these young guys have great potential. Give me a break. I have seen nothing from any of these clowns to make me believe we have any chance next year either.

By McFann Ô

August 17, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this

Thanks, Ms. Rogers! I knew the reason he had Thursday off, just wasn’t sure about today…had a feeling it was the DGANG, but he started Sunday last week.

And EXCELLENT point about keeping McCann at catcher! That’s what I keep trying to tell these people…

; >

Thanks, Chop Chop! I kinda had the same feeling about you…

; ) JK!

That’s 2 K’s today for Sammons…

By N Nine

August 17, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this

Linecum sure would look great in a braves uni! can we give our entire AA team for him?

By ppaddy123

August 17, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this

McFann, A move to 1st keeps that bat and his .303 BA and .378 OBP in the line up everyday. Plus with the long term contract he has already signed, he is very affordable for that position.

By cjdawg

August 17, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this

Hurry! Get TP away from Kotchman!! Do it now for his own good. Lol. I’m only half kidding. TP is a great guy, but in my little league all star opinion, he isn’t a hitting coach in the majors. It’s not just an opinion, but here is (shortly) why I think so. The best hitters on the team go somewhere else for their hitting advice (i.e. Chipper, McCann). TP was a good hitter when he played, but he was not known for a classic style. He was more of a contained chaos. Lastly, who has he really brought along as a hitter? I’m not even mentioning French’s debacle…anyway, maybe a new Hitting Instructor might be a nice change and make TP a bench coach. GO Braves!

By N Nine

August 17, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this

2k’s for sammons? REHIRE corky?

By ppaddy123

August 17, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this

jb I don’t know where you were raised, but I was raised to play to WIN

By kirknga

August 17, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this

I think it’s great the Braves can still draw over 2 million. I hope they are able to return to the days of drawing 3 million or close to it.

If they invest in the correct players over the offseason I think they’ll draw those type of crowds.

By McFann Ô

August 17, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this

JB We’re out of the playoff contention…

They’re not mathematically eliminated!

ppaddy123—

Please see Ms. Rogers’ 2:49. It explains my position on the matter as well.

Yes, it would keep his bat in the lineup everyday, but then we’d have a big hole in the catcher’s spot in the order. Kotchman will be a good hitter, you’ll see.

By Carroll Rogers

August 17, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this

Mike, did you know glavine went 2-4 with a 5.54 ERA in 87, his rookie year? he went 7-17 with a 4.56 ERA his first full season in 88?

Smoltz went 2-7 with a 5.48 ERA his rookie year in 88….maddux went 2-4 with a 5.52 ERA in 86 and 6-14 with a 5.61 ERA.

so according to your attitude, they sucked as young pitchers, so what’s the point of even puling for their teams?

not to say “clowns” like morton and reyes are going to be hall of famers, but they need a chance. you’re just pessimistic and impatient and frankly bringing me down on a lovely day. it’s 83 degrees in august in atlanta. maybe some fresh air would do you good.

By Coach ( Skip will be missed)

August 17, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this

As far as the Tim Lincecum goes, his mechanics are perfect. If you ever wanted to teach a kid how to throw the baseball, watch Lincecum.

Lincecum’s motion is an intriguing blend of skill, instruction, motivation and perfectionism. It starts at his toes and ends at his finger tips. He’s a power pitcher. period. The young right hander uses his entire body like a whip and the arm just follows suit.

It’s difficult to watch Tim Lincecum unleash a pitch and not think of past pitchers with similar actions - maybe Orel Hershiser or Don Sutton or Burt Hooton. But who really comes to mind when I see Lincecum pitch is Sandy Koufax, just from the right side. It’s nearly the same whip like body action.

Lincecum’s wind up, stride toward the plate, leg kick, release point, head tilt, explosion at the hips, it’s all designed to maximize his velocity, minimize stress on his arm and allow the batter as little reaction time as possible due to the baseball being released so close to home plate.

It all looks violent. but it’s not. It’s beautiful. the fastball, change up and curve ball are all first rate.

In a word, Lincecum is the second coming of Nolan Ryan and he is going to be dominating big league hitters for many, many years.

By ppaddy123

August 17, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this

Carroll I’m not suggesting McCann needs to play 1st today. The point I’m making and have been making is Brian McCann’s natural baseball progression should be a move to 1st. He has the 23rd highest BA in all of MLB Now do the Braves continue as they have done in the past and rest him 1-2 times a week? Or, do they move the guy (who recently had a concussion!) to 1st and allow him to play every day?

By TennesseePaul

August 17, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this

Interesting quotes Carroll. Just stoking the fire with the Kotchman business. The blog should be covered with anti-TP posts by the end of the day. But it is interesting to see how he is taking it.
Francoeur is actually winning me over this season. When Francoeur came up he was initially advertised as the one. It was a bit of a turn off in some respects. I’d rather have the player earn the status than just be assigned it. Turns out McCann actually fits that bill. But to watch Francoeur go through all of this and still keep his head up, it’s impressive. A lot of other people would have just quite as can be seen by some of the posts on this subject.
And as for Smoltz being good in the booth, I wouldn’t expect anything less.

By kirknga

August 17, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

*It’s not just an opinion, but here is (shortly) why I think so. *

You didn’t cite the Braves offensive accomplishments under TP, things like franchise-best numbers, and the fact the Braves have scored over 800 runs with him as coach,or the players who have enjoyed career-best numbers, etc…

So in other words, the lack of complete facts means it is “just an opinion”.

By Coach ( Skip will be missed)

August 17, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this

As of today, Tim Lincecum has 49 career starts. Eighteen have resulted in 1earned run or less, 9 have resulted in 0 earned runs allowed and IF he goes nine today, it will be Lincecum’s first complete game.

By N Nine

August 17, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this

THE CHIPPER JONES UPDATE

Not too much damage done. Another one-hit game. All games almost done. This is the only race I keep up with now.

Pujols 1-3 .349

Holliday 0-4 .340

Chipper 1-4 .364

By mets fan in atlanta

August 17, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

This blog isn’t even fun anymore—this is like the Braves two years ago, where they fall so far back they aren’t relevant anymore. I gave my comments about two weeks ago, but look around at the other teams who are double-digit games back (which the Braves will be shortly), and look and see what kind of lineups they are throwing out there. Then look at the Braves. And stop with the “season ticket holder” comments. I’m a season ticket holder, and i don’t want to come watch this sorry braves team. Maybe if they changed something, but lately my friends haven’t even cared to ask if they can use my tickets.

By jb

August 17, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this

ppdaddy123

I was raised being told that the MLB season is a marathon and not a sprint, and not giving players days off throughout the season will hurt them in Sept. and October

By BravesFan79

August 17, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this

Steps for Braves to return to dominance in 2009.

1. Get a ACE… a TRUE #1 starter. A Roy Holliday, Sheets, or CC.
2. Get a power bat in free agency.
3. NO MORE CRAP USELESS BACKUPS …. like woodward or corky miller. Why send up a pinchhitter late in the game thats a automatic out?? Might as well send up a pitcher to hit.

4. KEEP Ohman! As well as Gonzo, and Moylan.

5. Have Hudson and Smoltz come back around the All Star break of 09…. to make a true push for the playoffs…and make Smoltz the closer along with Gonzo for the 2nd half of the season.

If we do all these things, theres no doubt we can be World Series contenders next year!!

By N Nine

August 17, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this

Come on Mccann attack the AB pitcher up next (#7)

By jb

August 17, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this

ppdaddy123

I was raised being told that the baseball season was a marathon, not a sprint. Giving players days off throughout the season will help them stay strong in September and October, and apparently we still have a shot at playing in October…?

By N Nine

August 17, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

By Coach ( Skip will be missed)

August 17, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this

Scratch that. Lincecum goes 7.2 innings, 1 earned run, 4 walks, 10 K’s and dominated into the eighth inning. But, he still doesn’t have that elusive complete game.

And the Giants closer gets it done. Jeff Francoeur leaves them loaded, A-G-A-I-N.

By Carroll Rogers

August 17, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this

maybe after mccann’s body starts to break down some, paddy, but i still don’t do it for a good long while.

that’s 3-for-25 with the bases loaded for francoeur

By N Nine

August 17, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this

• I’m a season ticket holder, and i don’t want to come watch this sorry braves team* Mets fan in Atlanta

You are a confused individual. If you really were a dumb Muts fan, wouldn’t you want to root against them. Your a waste of space in Atlanta.

By BravesFan79

August 17, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this

Hey mets fan in Atlanta…. as a broke college student ill take those tickets!! 2 bad the Braves dont have the balls to make a manager change for the better like the Mets did.
Dont worry tho mets fan, the mets are getting old fast as well….youll soon return back to mediocrity next season.
While if our managnment plays this offseason right (keeps Ohman, gets a ACE, have Smoltz come back at the allstar break) We will be right there in contention for the East next year, and will have a very dangerous team for the playoffs!!
Go BRAVES!!

By McFann Ô

August 17, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this

Met Fan in Atlanta—

Wake up! the Braves are double-digit games back.

Hey, were you at the Braves-Cubs game Wednesday night? There was a Met fan (David Not wRight jersey) two or three rows behind us in right-center.

Well, McCann’s new on-base streak is at three games with that IBB. He hasn’t gotten an IBB in a while. Glad to see it, too. He hasn’t done too well as a pinch-hitter this year (.200 BA, .333 OBP before today).

JB—

Yep. Not mathematically eliminated…

By Mike in LA

August 17, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this

Francouer seems like an awesome guy and hardworker and I’m really hoping that his season is a fluke and he goes on to have a great career. However, he shouldn’t be batting with the bases loaded and the game on the line right now. It should have been Infante or Prado up there. Either one of them would have hit it hard somewhere

By Steve from OH

August 17, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

Wayne(from previous blog)

First, let me just say that my offer for Oswalt would be considerably less than an offer for Peavy/Halladay…

Anyway, I would start with an offer of Blanco, Flowers, Jones, Lillibridge and JoJo. That probably doesn’t get it done, but I’d say that Gorkys and one of Locke/Rohrbough/Cordier are on the table as a substitute. If they insist on Hanson, then it’s not a 5 player deal, to me.

A deal with Hanson…I’d probably do Hanson, Gorkys and Jones.

Under no circumstances do I trade Heyward, Freeman, or Schafer (unless Schafer is the centerpiece of a deal with less than 4 players), and I don’t make a deal with Hanson AND another good pitching prospect.

If we can’t get an ace for our price, I’d say we shouldn’t go after him—let Charlie and JoJo take their lumps and sign a FA pitcher like Dempster/Garland/Lowe. I’m not trading Kelly or Yunel for anything, if I’m the GM.

I’m (obviously) not very good at this and I’m glad I don’t have to do Frank Wren’s job this winter.

By Supes

August 17, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this

I’ll be waiting on Lew or KC to put a positive spin on Jeff hitting with bases loaded in 2008. Absolutely wretched. I’d rather have Mike Hampton hit with the bases jacked in 08 rather than see Jeff up there.

Although he should be given credit for performing very well last night. (A little too late but better than nothing)

coach

great post about Tim L. I went out of my way today to watch the game just to see him pitch. I only wish the Braves had him in their rotation. I actually only wish they had anyone like him in the minors, or even close but no. He was a really low round draft pick as well, b/c of his size. Goes to show scouts aren’t always right looking at numbers like height/weight.

Carroll

I have to say it’s a heart warming story about Jeff. I’m sure he’s an outstanding guy away from the field. It makes it even harder to criticize him for his on the field collapse in 2008.

By mets fan in atlanta

August 17, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this

That’s the point N Nine……they’re so bad its not even fun rooting against them. Because yes, that’s what i go for, other than watching the Mets when they come to town.

I am a huge baseball fan period, and i never got to attend a major league baseball game until i was 24 years old, and that was at Turner Field when Tom Glavine had his first start with the Mets against the Braves. Haha, that game was terrible. So I’m making up for lost time now with season tickets so i can go when i want. However, I teach high school and coach, so now that school has started, i have to really make time to go. With the braves being so unappealing right now, i don’t make the time. Even though i love my club level seats…..(by the way, i get my mets fix on mlbtv.com—its great)

By Mike

August 17, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this

Carroll, I’m a fan of yours, but if you think Morton and Reyes are going to be difference makers on this team any time soon you’re crazy. Waht has either of them done to make you believe that. Reyes will get bombed by the Mets this week and you know it. 4 innings, 8 hits, 6runs, 4 walks…mark my words. I hope I’m wrong , because I hate the Mets with a passion, but I’ve got a feeling it won’t be pretty.

By McFann Ô

August 17, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this

Ms. Rogers maybe after mccann’s body starts to break down some, paddy, but i still don’t do it for a good long while.

Well, hopefully it will be a good long while before his body starts to break down.

3-25 with the bases loaded for Francoeur? That’s just sad…

By mets fan in atlanta

August 17, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this

my fault last i looked they were 9 out. BTW, BravesFan79 you’re counting on two things that probably aren’t happening (signing a real ace, smoltz coming back)—whereas the Mets aren’t old at all. If anything this year has allowed some of our young players the chance to step up, and guys like Argenis Reyes (2nd base) and Dan Murphy (left field) make the future look a lot better. You know the Mets will sign a first baseman to take Delgado’s place if they decide he is done. I’m not worried in the least.

By Mike

August 17, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this

What are Met fans doing on here, seriously? Get a life donkeys!

By Original Jon

August 17, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this

Mike Dude, She isnt saying that they are going to be difference makers any time soon, she was comparing them to Smoltz, Maddux and Glavine when they first started playing. I am sure everyone thought about Maddux, Glavine, and Smoltz the same way you are thinking about Morton and Reyes right now. They thought, geez, these bums wont ever amount to anything, and now look at them, future first ballot hall of famers. Not saying Morton and Reyes are first ballot hall of famers, but hey, all great pitchers have to start off somewhere, somehow. So give it a rest already.

By StingerSplash

August 17, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this

Got to swing the bat with two outs, two strikes in the ninth, Blanco. Can’t stand there hoping for a walk. If you’re going to go down, go down swinging, son.

By kirknga

August 17, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this

I think people are being fairweather on Reyes and Morton. They are the same pitchers as they were in May and June. Back then a lot of people thought Hudson and 4 rookies were good enough, now they’re ready to throw Reyes under the bus!

These guys have shown they can pitch well enough that they should be given time, but how much time and which one is really the question?

The Braves need a stopper, a true dyed-in-the-wool #1 and that is going to cost a lot. Prospects and/or cash it’s going to hurt. Then you can fill in with a Dempster or a Garland.

I don’t know which rookie stays in the rotation beyond JJ, but I’m not sure I’m comfortable with having more than 2 of them going in to next season.

By DAP

August 17, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

the abbreviation for “microphone” is “mic” not “mike”

By southbeachdietfreak

August 17, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this

Not a lot of talk about Campillo. Someone said that JJ was the only starting pitcher worth keeping, but I still think Campillo will do ok. I think theyr’e a good foundation for our future starting rotation.

By southbeachdietfreak

August 17, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this

something doesn’t make sense…

When JF was sent down, he complained about the move. I keep hearing about his eye problems, but his eyes are the problem, why didn’t he address it when they were talking about sending him down? They had to have known that no amount of coaching would fix that. Is this vision thing from him being HBP, or has he always had it? Curious.

By It's pretty simple

August 17, 2008 5:50 PM | Link to this

Sign Milton Bradley to play left.

Sign Jon Garland or Ryan Dempster.

Trade for a front of the rotation type starter.

With a little bit of luck, maybe you can in the division or Wild Card……

By Efrim

August 17, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this

This team needs power. Milton Bradley makes more sense than Juan Rivera or Raul Ibanez….to me at least. It’s pretty simple is probably right.

A lot of people are down on Morton and Reyes. They are young, what do you want? Young pitchers very rarely perform like Jurrjens. Look at Hughes and Bucholz, they were uber prospects and they have had serious command issues.

I don’t think they are saviors, but they are potential solid starters.

Regardless, the Braves need to go out and get a couple of starters this offseason. I’d prefer if they stayed away from Jon Garland, but Ryan Dempster would make some sense. Also, Aaron Harang’s value is down right now, might be a good time to go after the guy.

By kirknga

August 17, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this

Bradley would be great from a talent standpoint, but I would worry about chemistry with him. He seems to be as big a gamble as Sheffield was if not moreso. Then again I didn’t think Tavarez would last this long so who knows.

Bradley could be the kind of edgey tough out kind of vet the Braves need, or he could be a distraction. He also has an injury history that is a red flag as well.

But pitching first, and I still say go after Sabathia first, then everyone else.

By Bobby's Cox

August 17, 2008 6:14 PM | Link to this

I for the life of me cannot figure a few things out.

ONE: Why you guys think Escobar is tradeable. The kid is great offensively and defensively. He should not be traded and be replaced with feeble hitting Lilibridge.

TWO: Why the braves keep running a linuep out there with Kotsay and/or Norton. Even the Yankees this week waived recently traded for Sexson and sent Melky Cabrera down to the AAA in favor of some kids.

Why, for the life of me, haven’t the braves at least brought Anderson up? This is getting sickening.

By BravesFanInRockies

August 17, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this

Mike,

The pennant race is over for the Braves. This is the time to see how well your prospects can perform against big league hitters — particularly against teams like the Mets who have something to play for.

I suppose you’d prefer the Braves pick up a couple of has-beens from the waiver wire rather than see whether JoJo or Morton can pitch consistently in the major leagues? Yeah, that’ll get it done.

These final seven weeks may be a bit of a blessing. The kids could well be competing for the back end of next year’s rotation and give the front office an idea of how aggressively they need to go after starters this winter.

By BravesFanInRockies

August 17, 2008 6:25 PM | Link to this

Well, here’s something to ponder: The Marlins may have another fire sale this winter.

Management may be unwilling to raise payroll much beyond the current $25 million. Unbelievable.

So it could be bargain time in South Florida. Snag Dan Uggla, move him to left? Grab Josh Willingham or Jeremy Hermida?

By NoOrdinaryRabbit

August 17, 2008 6:32 PM | Link to this

Bobby’s Cox Why, for the life of me, haven’t the braves at least brought Anderson up?

So we can have another slap singles hitter in the outfield alongside Blanco? And that’s going to help how?

By You No Hoo

August 17, 2008 6:32 PM | Link to this

On Sammons: Lose a Corky, gain a Corky.

By Lew

August 17, 2008 6:34 PM | Link to this

Bobby’s Cox-Dude, Kotsay has had 16 hits and is batting .390 in his past ten games and has raised his season’s average to .302. He’s also been our hottest hitter recently. Considering our lack of offense, just off the cuff, I’d say that’s why he’s still with the team and not DFA’ed. Quite honestly, since his back seems to be fine with an occasional day off, I wouldn’t mind seeing them sign him for next year as well. He’s done everything asked of him, both offensively and defensively despite a stint on the DL.

You’ve really got to ask yourself something here. Realistically, how big a difference maker do you think Josh Anderson will be? He can’t fill the leadoff position any better than Blanco has and since he has no power to speak of, what exactly does he add that is missing?

I like Anderson-I have ever since I watched him during Spring Training. He is a good player and has great speed and defensive abilities. I just don’t think he’s “The missing piece” or frankly, anything we’re currently missing. Don’t worry-he’ll be up in two weeks unless someone else gets injured.

By NCBravesFan

August 17, 2008 6:35 PM | Link to this

Hey, if we judged Glavine, Smoltz and Avery by their first years in the bigs, we would have traded or waived them. All of them lost a lot more than they won, and had 5+ ERAs their first year in the bigs.

Both Morton and JoJo appear to have pretty good stuff - it’s a matter of getting experience, and seeing if they can grow into the role of major leaguer on the mental as well as physical side.

By Wayne in Utah

August 17, 2008 6:40 PM | Link to this

Steve in OH Thanks for the reply. Here is the way I see it. Unless you are the Oakland A’s or a team a lot like them, then most teams are going to want at least one player in a blockbuster/multi-player trade who is major league proven.

The only time I can remember other teams trading a big time player for prospects is when that player is in a walk year, or nearing a walk year. Teixeira and Santana are recent examples.

I just don’t think you get it done without proven talent. 4-5 prospects for a signed, top caliber starter…. I just don’t see it happening.

What will probably happen is the Braves will not get a top of the rotation type guy, unless they catch some magic in a bottle and sign Sabathia, who I believe is the ONLY top guy available. Sheets is too much of a gamble, at the type money he will probably ask for.

So, I hear where you are coming from, but I just don’t see it happening. We will see soon enough…

By southbeachdietfreak

August 17, 2008 6:41 PM | Link to this

kirkinga,

I think we’d be paying a pretty high price for CC. Personally I’d rather see the cash go for some bats and bullpen help… but hey, FW didn’t ask me.

By McFann Ô

August 17, 2008 6:43 PM | Link to this

Lew—

I wouldn’t mind seeing the Braves sign Kotsay for next year, either. As a matter of fact, I’m really hoping they do!

I like Anderson, too, but the Braves aren’t nearly as desperate for him as Bobby’s Cox seems to be…

By I was a teenage Francophile

August 17, 2008 6:43 PM | Link to this

Sexson - Power = Francoeur.

By BravesFanInRockies

August 17, 2008 6:45 PM | Link to this

Lew,

It would not surprise me if Kotsay were moved at the deadline. I know DOB has heard the Braves might try to re-sign him, but I don’t see him as the answer for anything next year. Especially if he’s going to command $3-4 million that could be used to help pay a real stud pitcher or hitter.

Schafer has been on a roll in the past few weeks. He may get a look in September, along with Anderson.

Depending on what happens this winter, Schafer and Blanco might be competing for the starting CF/4th OF job next spring. A year later than we expected, to be sure. But Gregor has really taken advantage of his opportunity.

By Arvo

August 17, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this

…JoJo appear(s) to have pretty good stuff…

You’ve got to be kidding me. What are you smoking?

By southbeachdietfreak

August 17, 2008 6:47 PM | Link to this

BFIR,

Does Liberty Media own the Marlins, too?

By Wayne in Utah

August 17, 2008 6:47 PM | Link to this

Why I continue to follow this team I have no idea… Mike at 3:08pm.

I agree with you on three points: James stinks, Glavine is done, and

well, you answered your first question with your question.

Why do you continue to follow this team? Easy answer, just go…

Unless, all you want to do is just moan and complain, then stay…. you’ll have plenty of company around here some days!

By Mike

August 17, 2008 6:49 PM | Link to this

You guys don’t get it. All I’m saying is, I hope the Braves front office doesn’t go into next year banking on the potential of our young guys. I hope they turn into studs just as much as the rest of you, but from whta I’ve seen I don’t have a ton of confidence in that. Reyes maybe has a shot, if he can throw strikes more consistently, but I’m sorry, I think Morton stinks.

By Arvo

August 17, 2008 6:49 PM | Link to this

Bradley would be great from a talent standpoint, but I would worry about chemistry with him.

Just keep a beaker of solvents nearby.

By Wayne in Utah

August 17, 2008 6:50 PM | Link to this

BravesfaninRockies or BFIR for short. I like the idea of fleecing, er, I mean making a trade with the Fish. They have a lot of pitching, and their payroll might be getting too high. Any of the 3 you mentioned would be great, and Olsen, while not a top of the rotation guy, might be a decent pick-up. What kind of bait would you set to get the “Fish to Bite”

By southbeachdietfreak

August 17, 2008 6:53 PM | Link to this

Too bad for Charlie today. Stuff seemed alot better than last start. Better days ahead, CM!!

By Carroll Rogers

August 17, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this

thanks original jon…….

southbeach, sorry, but both David and I have written several times that the eye issues with Jeff are moot. In his mind and in doctor’s minds. Let’s move on with that, if we can.

milton bradley is an intriguing name for y’all to toss out. having a great offensive year. potential for being a problem in the clubhouse, and at first blush, can’t see bobby taking that on, but he hasn’t had any big blow-ups this year, and both bobby bonilla and sheffield played here.

By southbeachdietfreak

August 17, 2008 6:58 PM | Link to this

Just read that the Bravos went past 2 million on attendance. My how times have changed!!

By Wayne in Utah

August 17, 2008 6:59 PM | Link to this

Mike What is it? Do they stink, or do they have a shot. Get off the frickin fence man, or take a chill pill before posting your rants. The Braves site has a place for ranting, if that is what you are here for.

I guess you missed Morton’s 3-4 decent games, huh. Wait, that was probably an abberation, huh.

You could be right. I am just glad, as someone has already pointed out, that the Braves didn’t jettison Smoltz, Glavine and Avery after their first year or two.

As for Milton Bradley. He is an intriguing possibility for the OF, what with his potential and his injury history. Do we need any Manny’s in the clubhouse?

By mac2251

August 17, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this

How many times do people have to be told CJones can be traded without his okay. Pay attention !

By southbeachdietfreak

August 17, 2008 7:01 PM | Link to this

Wayne,

I’d be sold on Olsen! haven’t seen him against other teams, but he always seems to get the best of us!

By Sara

August 17, 2008 7:03 PM | Link to this

Pendleton needs to stay away from Kotchman and thats that. Hes hurt to many players already. Smoltz I would welcome back next year if he wants to try and Hampton to if he wants to sign for 1 million and incentives. Glavine in my opinion just needs to take a walk. We still need to sign pitchers and thats that. To rely on Smoltz and Hampton for next year is a best a risk that we have taken for the last three years. It has not worked out. So give Smoltz and Hampton a shot at return, say see ya to Glavine and get two starters via free agency to shore up our club. Please get some outfielders and a 2nd baseman. Our lineup stinks from top to bottom.

By Wayne in Utah

August 17, 2008 7:06 PM | Link to this

Whoever was complaining about Sammons, didn’t you check out his minor league stats. Good glove man, weak bat.

I remember many saying, “Bring up Sammons, he certainly can’t do as poorly as Corky!” Well, you got your wish. It is what it is sometimes.

Three of Charlie’s hits (at least, maybe more) were real weak hits. Those two doubles down the left field side, and that grounder that Kotchman faked him out on. Good outing (watch or listen to the games Mike)

Tomorrow will be a very telling day for Campillo. He has not done so well this month. Let’s see if he can right the ship, or if he has reached his water level.

By McFann Ô

August 17, 2008 7:11 PM | Link to this

Sara Our lineup stinks from top to bottom.

Haha! That’s a good one!

Always nice to get a good laugh after a terrible game. Thanks for that!

Haha!

By Steve from OH

August 17, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this

Bradley would be a great option (leads AL in OBP and SLG, last time I checked) but the injury history worries me a bit. If he comes here and leads the NL in OPS, I don’t really care how bad his attitude is.

Wayne, I agree that they’d probably want major league ready talent, which is why I included Blanco and JoJo (put the pitchforks away, not trying to start any debates here). Like I said before, I really doubt Kelly and Yunel go, based on some of the statements I’ve read from Frank Wren. If we can’t get OUR guy for OUR price, we shouldn’t make a deal. Plain and simple. A farm sytem can’t absorb two Teixeira-like deals in two consecutive years. I (as a very conservative hypothetical GM) want to avoid this at all costs.

The way I see it, Jones, Lillibridge, Flowers, Gorkys, Blanco and JoJo are expendable. If the other team wants us to sweeten a deal, we’d better think long and hard about what we’re giving up before we do it.

By McFann Ô

August 17, 2008 7:24 PM | Link to this

How come Charlie didn’t get credit for a pick-off when he nailed that guy at third?

I guess that was just a pure CS, since he caught him at a differ’nt base than the one the guy started on.

Speakin’ of Corky, what ever happened to him, anyway? I mean, I know the Braves D’d him FA, but did he get picked up, or did he go to the minors?

Thanks!

By Chop Chop

August 17, 2008 7:28 PM | Link to this

In 97 games (90 starts) for the Rangers this year, Bradley has been the DH 72 times. That’s right, folks. He’s started 20 games in the outfield for Texas in 2008.

The Rangers have played 124 games this year, which means that Bradley has missed 27 games this year even with the team trying to protect his legs by DHing him.

I’m not concerned about his personality or the possibility that he could “ruin team chemistry.” That’s secondary to his injury problems.

My main question is this:

If Milton Bradley can’t play the outfield on a regular basis, where the hell else is he going to play for the Braves?

I’ll answer that.

Nowhere.

By brent a.

August 17, 2008 7:34 PM | Link to this

Smoltz is a ton better than Lemke as a commentator.

As sad as it is to lose Skip, it would only add insult to injury if Lemke were permanently added to the broadcast crew. The quality of the Braves broadcasts would drop dramatically.

By Chop Chop

August 17, 2008 7:37 PM | Link to this

92 starts for Bradley this year.

I shorted him two.

I apologize to The Gamer.

By Lew

August 17, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this

BravesFanInRockies-Dude, I think Kotsay, even at that price, would be a good bet for several reasons. First, you won’t get anyone better than that for the money you mentioned. Anyone else will either cost way more or be an untried kid. Let Shafer develop without the added pressure. Second, Kotsay is obviously a good fit in the clubhouse and given the relative youth of the team (especially now that the Rocking Chair/DL contingent will likely be gone-we hope) provides a needed veteran presence. Third, the guy is good and steady. With an occasional day off he will provide a good bat and good defense with a very good arm.

The whole lack of power issue is somewhat valid-a little bit every now and then would be great, but seemingly good options in that regard are going to be expensive (Bradley, et al) and I would prefer to go with Kotsay, Blanco and Francoeur (Anderson or Diaz, if healthy as #4). I still think Francoeur will come back and with Chipper, McCann and (hopefully-I keep hearing about 25 HR potential) Kotchman, we will have enough power. Pitching however, must be addressed first and foremost-even if we finish out of the money for another year. Only by putting together an extremely strong staff will we ever get back to where we used to be. Milton Bradley or someone like him won’t do the trick.

By jeanE

August 17, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this

I thought Smoltzie was awesome! I really enjoyed his insight into the game, especially the pitching insights, very good, funny & self-deprecating…would love to hear him again sometime but I know he will be back on the mound next year kicking some a—-!!! Thanks for the tidbit on Francoeur, it’s great to hear that stuff, I’ve been down on him, too but that is the story of a wonderful human being, not just a ballplayer.

By How you know a Team Sucks

August 17, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

When it’s mid-August and the hottest topic among Braves’ fans is: “which player(s) can we dump via trades this offseason”, you know it’s been a bad season.

By fastasballs

August 17, 2008 8:02 PM | Link to this

McFann If I’m not mistaken the Corkster is spending his time in Richmond right now. It’s hard to believe they just wouldn’t give him his out right release & be done with him.

By keylargo

August 17, 2008 8:10 PM | Link to this

I’ve brought this up before and have not gotten any backers on it but with the Marlins almost saying they are going to keep their payroll at $25 million next year I am proposing it again.

Trade Escobar and a prospect or two for Hanley Ramirez.

The Marlins are at $23 Million now without Ramirez’s salary increase next year, which is about $6 million. Escobar makes the minimum for a first year player. Ramirez is about to become the fourth SS in MLB history to go 30HR/30SB. He hits for average and is younger than Escobar.

Escobar would fit the Marlins mold for players and is Cuban, a huge advantage at ticket sales.

The Marlins new stadium is no longer a sure thing and the Marlins will stay with their budget as they have proved over and over. They almost did not sign Ramirez because he wanted a no trade clause in the new contract and they refused. The Marlins won out and he can be traded.

On a team that is HR challenged, a SS who hits 30 HR’s would be huge. Plus, I am not as smitten with Escobar’s head as I am with the rest of his game.

This is a trade that would be beneficial for both organizations.

By McFann Ô

August 17, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this

fastasballs—

Thanks for the info!

By Jeff R

August 17, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this

Santana was dominate today against the Pirates. The guy’s finally finding his groove. That’s bad news for the Phillies.

By TPM

August 17, 2008 8:49 PM | Link to this

I’ve said in April and I will say it again. The Braves need to move on from their jurassic pitching staff and rebuild. For the life of me I can not understand why people are optimistic about Glavine and Smoltz returning.

Smoltz hurt his shoulder in Milwaukee in 2007 and then signed an extension for 2008. He may return as a reliever if at all. Glavine even when healthy this year could not record more that 14 outs a game

Googd Grief - Move On !

By KND

August 17, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this

It’s funny how it seems the blog writers and Braves announcers must have gotten the same memo to only talk about the great stuff Franceour has done rather than the huge step back he’s taken, along with his childish attitude. Same for the AJC online. I’ve read about his fave movies, his wedding, his trip to his old school ad nauseam. Evidently no other Brave has a life, except the goldenboy. So he hits 4/5 last night and he’s coming around but he’s 0/4 today with 4 lob. Nice way of coming around but it’s more like he was able to hit a lousy pitcher. I’d like to see him ride the pine or get sent down until next year and let him try out for the big team. Bring in some of the up and comers and see how they do for the rest of the year.

By TheProfessor

August 17, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this

Take a break everybody, enjoy life…I really enjoyed Smoltz on Tv , he did a great job and his insight and knowledge was a breath of fresh air. MR. ROGERS … KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK !

By fastasballs

August 17, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this

I have no problem with Milton Bradley except he is injury prone. I’m really tired of hearing about clubhouse chemistry. It’s an overrated term, especially in baseball. You know what makes bad chemistry? Losing.

I have no desire to see Tom Glavine return next season. If it we’re the late 80’s & Phil Niekro wanted to come back I’d be all for it. Smoltz is the only one of the two I would consider signing. The season is Smoltz was still effective before/during his injury, Glavine not so much.

I’d sign Hampton again before Glavine. We were hoping Wren struck gold by bringing Glavine back, but it was not to be. Time to move on.

Tommy Hanson is going to be part of the rotation in 2010, if not next season. Why would any of you advocate trading the first legit pitching prospect the Braves have had in a long time?

Wren can’t decimate the farm system. It’s just now starting to build a little steam from the lower levels. Years & years of drafting low has had an effect on the prospects they have had to work with. Of course some prospects have not developed either. Scouting issues?

The Braves need two starters & a big time power bat for the outfield. A power upgrade somewhere else wouldn’t hurt.

At least for next season Frenchy stays put. He’ll have Heyward breathing down his neck in a few years anyway. Same at first with Kotchman. Freeman has made HUGE strides this season & should be on his way in a few years or less.

By Tomahawkin

August 17, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this

Keylargo I recently heard that 14 Marlins will be facing Arbitration this upcoming offseason, So I think its gonna be interesting as to how the Marlins F.O. handles the increase in Payroll

Plus Hanley Ramirez will be comanding 15 million per year once he faces free agency in a couple of years, and I doubt that the braves will be hard pressed to go after him, But I do love his speed game he brings to the table…

By JimD

August 17, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this

By mac2251

How many times do people have to be told CJones can be traded without his okay. Pay attention !

Chipper has more than 10 years MLB service time (14) and more than 5 (all of them actually) for his current team. Therefore according to the Basic Agreement he does have trade refusal rights.

By Wayne in Utah

August 17, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this

keylargo While I love Escobar’s enthusiasm and potential, nobody is untouchable except for McCann, JJ, Chipper. I like Han-Ram’s bat, but I have heard conflicting stories about his glove. I would go for that deal any day, and twice on Sunday.

If he is a butcher at SS, then he could be taught to play another position (those are good numbers for a CF’er).

TPM Smoltz’ option only kicks in with so many innings pitched. I am not sure if there is a lesser salary if he doesn’t meet the required innings. I would think he would be a FA to negotiate a contract with us or anybody else.

I think you sign him up to a minor league contract to give you the option of upgrading it later if it came to that.

As for Tommy G, see ya later.

Hampton: He is a bit IF for me. If he does well from here on out, then offer him an incentive laden deal (Contingent on number of starts or innings).

Otherwise, cut him loose. If he does come back to close to his 2004-5 form, he could be a valuable cog in the rotation.

I think we are in for some more pain in 2009. I sure hope we don’t empty the vault (cash and prospects) for guys that are not going to be around for 5-10 years.

By bravos2249

August 17, 2008 9:16 PM | Link to this

KND

Frenchy faced Palmer sometime in the minors and was 2-2 with 2 rbi. lol

I guess writers don’t put that stuff in stories.

By TPM

August 17, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this

Wayne

Smoltz - by his own admission - hurt his shoulder in 2007. He is stealing money this year.

By Da Mick

August 17, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this

No one is saying that Francoeur isn’t a nice guy — that’s never been the issue, so please spare us yet another version of these seemingly endless rah-rahs that we get about him from all the different media. I don’t care what anyone says, I’ve watched the Braves since the late 70s, and beyond his first Major league season, Jeff has always been a non-clutch player who’s had good stats that have been consistently soft — that is he gets his hits, for the most part, when they don’t matter. I’m not saying he’s never come through — I’ve seen him do it, but he looks to me to be someone who’s always thrived on his talent against lesser players throughout his young life. And very much like the story of the talented Andrew Jones, neither player had to work at being good coming up, and thus, laying back on their talents, never had to learn to make adjustments. But the majors has a way of leveling the field when it comes to natural talents. If you can’t make adjustments to the adjustments major-leaguers make to you, you suddenly find yourself in no-man’s land. Just like Andrew did, Jeff is in a downward spiral that he is not equipped to change at this level. Nice guy or not — this is about being able to consistently produce at the major league level.

One last comment — do we constantly have to pander to John Smoltz all the time? I think the man is an amazing athlete — love to watch him perform, and I give him his due as an extraordinary being. But really on the personal side, I’m so tired on him being the big kid that everyone stands around and kisses up to in the boys club that is this Atlanta franchise and media coverage. I know entry has got to be tough for you Carroll, and while it’s important in your job for you to be one of the guys, I’d have hoped that maybe you could do your job without being like all the other guys who feel they have to hold up the big dog and make him feel important off the field.

We have enough nicey-nice types running around this chummy environ; we need our local journalists to provide some edgy insight into what’s going on here, and call a spade a spade.

Be an individual and you might have a chance to excel in your field.

By 8 Simple Rules for Fixing my Struggling Team

August 17, 2008 9:33 PM | Link to this

ONE: Sign or trade for a #1 starter.

TWO: Sign John Smoltz to a cheap contract for 2009.

THREE: Let Tom Glavine go.

FOUR: Sign Mike Hampton to a very cheap, one-year deal for 2009.

FIVE: Sign one of Adam Dunn or Pat Burrell this offseason to be the new Atlanta Braves’ left fielder.

SIX: Resist the urge to settle for less in fixing left field…stay away from scrap like Raul Ibanez and especially Bobby Abreu.

SEVEN: Lock up closer Mike Gonzalez beyond the 2009 season this offseason.

EIGHT: Do not make Jeff Francoeur an automatic lock for the starting 2009 Atlanta Braves right field job.

By keylargo

August 17, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this

Hanley Ramirez is signed to a 6 year $70 million contract that takes effect next season (09).

2009 - $5.5 million 2010 - $7 million

By keylargo

August 17, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this

Hanley Ramirez is signed to a six year $70 million contract that takes effect in 2009.

Salaries

2009 $5.5 million

2010 $7 million

2011 $11 million

this is what is so attractive to the Braves in that he is under contract for the next six years at a reasonable price.

By Steve from OH

August 17, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this

fastasballs, your 9:06 was spot on. Well said.

By SNIPER-69

August 17, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this

DOB, I have a song I think would be appropriate for your next blog…..“FREE FALLING” by Tom Petty. Afterwards, LEW and all his Fairy men could tell me a bedtime story about how great the braves are and how they’ll beat out the METS for the division. Enjoy the rest of the season watching from below.

By katz

August 17, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this

Da Mick If you spell Andruw’s name “Andrew” , you are probably not the one who should be attacking the credibility of others when it comes to the Braves. Dude played for the team for 12 years. Was the second best player most of that time. Had a very unique way of spelling an otherwise very common name. If you misspelled his name once, it would have been an understandable typo written in a mad brainstorming dash in an informal forum. You however spelled it Andrew several times in that post. Seems to me that the beat writers are having a hard enough time getting lamebrains like you to correctly spell the name of one of the 10 greatest players in franchise history to concern themselves with the more advanced issues on your laundry list.

By Tomahawkin

August 17, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this

No Adam Dunn, Our offense is already too one-dimensional…Burell may make sense but he hits in a bandbox, and is very streaky…

We need to bring some patient hitters in, who draw walks and can steal bases…

Look at the Cubs, last I checked they led the league in team OBP, wonder why they have one of the best offensive attacks in the N.L.

Point is that this team lives and dies on the longball…wonder why we can’t employ good situational hitting…

Just my 2 cents….Anyone agree…?

By BravesFanInRockies

August 17, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this

Wayne,

Baiting the hook: If the Fish want to purge payroll, they’ll want players who aren’t arb-eligible and at least a couple years away.

For the Braves, Lillibridge, Blanco, Schafer, Morton, Medlin, Flowers would top the list of players I’d put in the mix. Prado and B. Jones could be pieces, too, I suppose, but I don’t see either as potential impact players and thus the centerpiece of a trade.

Flowers would be an intriguing guy to offer. The Fish have been abysmal behind the plate and Tyler has monstrous power and excellent on base skills. Unless the Braves plan to move him to another position, he’s like Salty was two years ago: blocked.

keylargo,

I was all over you a few days back when you suggested getting Hanley for Yunel and a package of prospects. I thought that was a ridiculous idea. I would gladly be proven wrong.

Lew,

Lack of power isn’t “somewhat valid,” it’s the Achilles’ heel of the whole frickin’ offense. If I thought they would get someone with Burrell-like power for LF, then I’d be fine with keeping Kotsay and Blanco or another solid but somewhat punchless CF/4th OF. Remember, Kotsay was supposed to play decent defense and hit 8th. Not in the middle of the order, as he has often since Tex was traded.

But if they don’t find a legitimate bopper to play LF/CF, the Braves won’t contend next year, even if they sign CC and Sheets. Unless they get Hanley.

By Lew

August 17, 2008 10:12 PM | Link to this

BravesFanInRockies-No, the Achillies Heal is that we do not have a pitching staff that can go more than five innings and that deteriorates our bullpen. Power is much secondary to dominant pitching. Pitching must be addressed before anyone even thinks of power. Milton Bradley will not cure the ills of our pitching staff. Period. We had power with Teixeira and just how did that work out?

By keylargo

August 17, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this

The Marlins are going to be in turmoil this winter. I noted in my above post that the stadium deal the Marlins thought to be a done deal - isn’t. They are probably going to stick with their $23 million dollar payroll. Hanley Ramirez leads the ways with his new contract taking effect. (six years/$70 million).

Here are some of the other players in line for raises and arbitration with the Marlins. This article was in today’s Miami Herald and was written by their beat writer Barry Jackson.

bjackson@MiamiHerald.com

This playoff race has high stakes for key Marlins in line for their first big contracts this winter. ”Every player thinks about it,” Cody Ross said.

Their roster, which needs alterations regardless of finances, would cost more than $50 million in 2009. Unless owner Jeffrey Loria doubles the $22 million payroll (which nobody expects), several players likely will be dealt this winter for cheaper talent. ”Payroll will always match revenue,” team president David Samson stressed.

One National League general manager said Florida’s predicament is tricky because ”it’s hard to find alternatives if you move some of their best arbitration-eligibles, like Dan Uggla. Mike Jacobs is probably the most expendable.” Among the arbitration-eligible Marlins under the microscope over the final six weeks:

• Jacobs/Jorge Cantu: With third baseman Cantu able to play first and first baseman Gaby Sanchez excelling in Double A, two scouts and a GM expect the Marlins will field offers for Jacobs this winter. Jacobs (career-high 25 homers but deficient defensively) could boost his trade value — or value to Florida — with a strong finish. Former Mets GM Steve Phillips, of ESPN, sees Jacobs getting $4 million to $4.5 million in ‘09 and Cantu $3.5 million to $4 million.

• Uggla: His poor second half makes a long-term deal unlikely, and if this continues, Uggla (could get $5 million to $6 million in ‘09) could be dangled this winter. Double A prospect Chris Coghlan has hit well (.302, 65 RBI) but has 20 errors.

• Starting outfielders:Josh Willingham, Jeremy Hermida and Ross are potential first-time arbitration cases, and one or two likely will be moved this winter, with Cameron Maybin in the wings. Willingham, whose back is a concern, must return to ‘07 form to make a case to return. A players’ first three years are considered when he becomes arbitration-eligible, and Phillips expects Hermida and Willingham each to command $3.5 million or so in ‘09.

One scout called Hermida an ”underachiever,” but Phillips said he would keep Hermida over Willingham because “he’s more athletic, has more upside.”

• Kevin Gregg: If far-cheaper Matt Lindstrom thrives in September, the Marlins could make him their ‘09 closer. They are likely to pass on Gregg, who would cost $3 million or more in ‘09.

• Scott Olsen: The arbitration-eligible rotation members are Josh Johnson (will return), Ricky Nolasco (likely to return) and Olsen (could get $3 million to $4 million). ”You could get a lot for Olsen and put Andrew Miller, who’s much cheaper, in his spot,” an NL scout said.

Phillips has one beef: ”I don’t understand with the $30 million the Marlins get in revenue sharing why they can’t have a $50 million payroll. You’re getting subsidized by baseball to keep guys. The commissioner should be outraged if they keep the payroll this low.” (FYI: Luis Gonzalez and Arthur Rhodes are Florida’s best free agents.)

By BravesFanInRockies

August 17, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this

Tomahawkin,

OBP is very good. Teams should work counts.

The Cubs are the best offense in the NL because they can beat you a lot of ways. But they’re also fifth in homers. And their power is well distributed — Soriano, Ramirez, D Lee, DeRosa, Soto, even Edmonds. A lot of spots in the lineup with HR power and patience at the plate.

The Braves hoped to have a lineup like that this year. There’s work to do …

By Wayne in Utah

August 17, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this

key and BFIR The Han-Ram contract is exactly why they will keep him. Why trade a superstar that you are paying average wages for the next few years. I think they will be looking elsewhere to purge some salary.

Lew Dead on with the Tex reference. We couldn’t do it with Tex. We need to fix the staff first, and foremost. If we can add a thumper in addition to fixing the staff, then that is icing on the cake.

By BA

August 17, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this

Lew, (if I may, sorry to break the blog veterans rule) I think we need pitching first as well. But how much pitching can they get at once? I’m concerned that even if they did sign a couple of starters (which I’m not sure is likely) it STILL would not be enough. And it seems like every year trading for pitching gets harder (the “price” keeps going up).

What would you do?

By Steve from OH

August 17, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this

Tomahawkin, Adam Dunn and Pat Burrell are both great OBP guys. If you put Dunn on our team, he would rank T-2 (behind Chipper and tied with McCann) in OBP. Burrell is actually 10 points ahead of McCann in OBP (sorry, McFann). This would be very good for our team.

Dunn would also rank 3rd (behind Chipper and McCann) in SLG. Burrell ranks two points ahead of McCann (sorry again, McFann) in SLG for 2nd place.

Burrell actually has a higher road than home OPS (by 5 points), so I don’t think playing in Philly affects him that much. Adam Dunn has a higher home OPS, but his road OPS is a very good .872. Burrell’s monthly splits are also all pretty close.

Sorry, but Dunn and Burrell are the very definition of the patient hitter who draws walks that you referenced in your post. They’re exactly what we need next season.

By Brett Butler fan

August 17, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this

I didn’t get a chance to post earlier today. When I saw that Lincecum was pitching for SF, I wondered who wanted to say the following with me: “It’s cap tipping time!”

By Tomahawkin

August 17, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this

BravesFaninRockies I’ve noticed that the cubs offense is so efficient because they work counts. Most pitchers who face the cubs offense are at 100 pitches by the fifth inning because they are so patient (Len and Bob Brenly mention this all the time)

As Overrated As Kosuke F-U-Dome is he does one thing that I wish our offense would employ, and that is he works the count, Plays A-B-C offense, and doesn’t waste At-Bats, I can’t remember a Braves team that is as bad as this years version at being patient at the plate and not wasting at-bats…

Anyone Agree?

Gotta Cook Dinner be back in 5…

By BravesFanInRockies

August 17, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this

Lew,

You and I won’t see eye to eye on this one, obviously.

We need healthy and effective starters, no question about it. Even so, the Braves have had 58 quality starts, meaning (whatever you think of that statistic), in nearly half the games the starter has gone at least six innings and given up 3 runs or less. The Dodgers have had only one more QS and the top team in the league, the Dbacks, have had 74, or only 16 more than the Braves.

Had Smoltz or Hudson or Glavine or Hampton been healthy all season (any of them or maybe even all of them), this team didn’t have enough offense to contend.

The bottom line is, you have to score runs to win games, and this year’s team, despite having the 5th-highest batting average in the NL and being 3rd in OBP, is 10th in runs scored and 10th in SLG.

We’re gettin’ em on but not gettin’ em in.

By Da Mick

August 17, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this

Hey Katz, I can’t decide if you are a deranged English teacher, who’s about to go postal, or Carroll’s sweety, but either way it seemed like you missed my adroit points in your anguish over my spelling.

While he had a couple of fine years with the bat here, I don’t think it is only MY personal opinion that Andrew Jones did not reach the potential for greatness that was commonly forecast for him at the start of his career. It’s commonly known that he was considered a stubborn player who refused to take instruction, learn from his mistakes, and make adjustments. He’s not the first player who’s enormous natural talent created a spoiled individual who refused to learn how to become a better player in an arena that is full of golden boys and prodigies.

My suggestion is that Franceour was a talented player that excelled at every level he played at until he reached this same arena of equals who all find that they have to undergo a process of change to stick in the majors — not just rely on their inert talent. Much has been made of the friendship and rivalry of Jeff and McCann. Until the last year or so, it was always inferred that Franceour, as the ongoing “golden boy,” was the superior player. But what we’ve seen McCann work at, and subsequently, accomplish as a great one in progress, illustrates the point about Franceour — he’s no natural, and his previous string of seemingly effortless success as a young player at every level has only hamstrung his ability to make the adjustments required of every major league player.

By the way Katzy - get over it.

By richbrave

August 17, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this

Went to the Toledo-Richmond game today and was reminded of SKIP. “Human rain delay” came to mind.

By Steve from OH

August 17, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this

Lew, BravesfaninRockies:

You’re both right. Starting pitching and the big gaping power void that is our outfield is killing us. I’ve always been one to give an edge to pitching over offense, but I’m really not too concerned because I think we’ve got the pieces and cash to fix both problems.

By Tomahawkin

August 17, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this

Steve From OH I will co-sign on your OBP references about Burrell and Dunn, but take into the fact that both play half of the ir Home games in bandboxes (Turner Field is the direct opposite of CBP and The Great American Smallpark since the dimensions are a lot further at the Ted…), and both are streaky hitters (Most braves fans don’t tolerate streaky hitters after watching A. Jones the past decade…)

Plus Burrell has a reputation in Philly of not being clutch over his career…

By BravesFanInRockies

August 17, 2008 10:42 PM | Link to this

Wayne,

Though I find keylargo’s ideas intriguing and would like to subscribe to his newsletter, I really have my doubts that Hanley is available. I’d think the arb-eligible players — mainly Uggla and the OF — would be the ones they try to move.

Even if you’re rebuilding, Hanley’s the guy you keep because of his contract. Just like the Braves won’t trade Chipper (still paid less than he’d command on the market) and Heap even if they were to write off 2009 entirely.

By Steve from OH

August 17, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this

Tomahawkin, I totally agree about working the count. That’s been one of the most frustrating things about this team for me this season becuase there’s been several games in which they’ve just ground down the opposing starter, and then the next game we’re flailing at the 1st pitch all night. I think our lineup is more than capable of it, but adding another piece sure as heck won’t hurt.

By Tomahawkin

August 17, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this

Braves may be third in the league in OBP, just leads to the fact that the team lives and dies with the 3-run homer, and doesn’t execute in moving runners over and a lack of team speed…

Watching the phillies over the last week their offense has been infactuated with living and dying with the 3-run homer and it has cost them games in the standings to the mets…

By THB

August 17, 2008 10:49 PM | Link to this

Hanson should be untouchable, unless we’re getting an ace for the next 3-4 years that we can extend. He’s one of the top minor league pitchers at any level. Same with Heyward, Freeman, and I think we’d be making a huge mistake by giving up Flowers. I think he needs to learn 1B, because he reminds me a lot of Kevin Youkilis. High OBP, solid AVG, power. Just happens he’s blocked by Mac.

By keylargo

August 17, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this

BFiR & Wayne

You may not have to listen to me after tomorrow with Tropical Storm Fay bearing down on me. I live just outside of Key West and they are projecting that we will be hit tomorrow afternoon.

But I have generators, gasoline and plenty to eat/drink. I’ll get through to the Blog no matter what!!

By Deep Throat

August 17, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this

No Adam Dunn, Our offense is already too one-dimensional…Burell may make sense but he hits in a bandbox, and is very streaky…

We need to bring some patient hitters in, who draw walks and can steal bases…

One-dimensional? One-dimensional?! Are you f-ing serious? This team is severly lacking in homerun pop, especially in the outfield. The Braves’ outfield has a combined 21 homeruns. How many players in the majors have that many homers by themselves?

Adam Dunn and Pat Burrell are exactly what you say you want too: patient hitters who draw walks. Dunn walks 100 times a year.

Dunn is an all but certain 40 homeruns, 100 walk, 900+ OPS guy. Yeah, who wants any of that? Or would you rather the Braves continue with the two sub.-700 OPS corner outfielders (Francoeur and Blanco)? Probably the worst pair of corner outfielders in the majors.

Sorry, but left field is a black hole. The Braves need and should sign either Dunn or Burrell this offseason.

By Steve from OH

August 17, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this

Tomahawkin, Dunn OPS splits:

Home: .929

Away: .872

By month:

April: .993

May: .913

June: .906

July: .968

August: .835

September: .778

Burrell, splits:

Home: .853

Away: .862

Monthly:

April: .881

May: .930

June: .765

July: .869

Aug: .879

Sept: .826

Sorry, but for home/away I just can’t agree with you. As for streaky, there’s a bit of difference with Burrell, but it’s not terrible. Dunn’s pretty consistent, with a bit of a drop-off late.

Clutch hitting is overrated.

By BravesFanInRockies

August 17, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this

Tomahawkin,

I’m not arguing with you about the Cubs. Like the Red Sox, they make pitchers work. Soriano’s the only genuinely impatient hitter among the impact players, and Lou has decided to not try to change him at this point in his career.

How can you say they’re impatient? The Braves are awfully good at working counts; they’re 2nd in the NL in BB and 3rd in OBP.

The problem is not being able to score runners after they’re on. They’re 7th in doubles and 13th in HR. I said it before, they’re gettin’ em on but not gettin’ em in.

By JimD

August 17, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this

*Changing pace a bit … *

During today’s telecast of the game, they showed a slo-mo of Lincecum’s delivery from the wind-up. An interesting part of it is that his right foot comes off the rubber and actually is about 10-12 inches in front of the rubber when he releases the ball. That means his pitches are delivered from 59’ 6” and that gives him a decided advantage.

Now, I am too lazy to read the tedious MLB rule book, but it seems I remember something about a pitcher’s pivot foot is required to be in contact with the rubber when he releases the ball? Anyone else remember anything like that or am I just getting to be a senile old fart like Coach?

By BravesFanInRockies

August 17, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this

keylargo,

Batten ‘em down man and hang in there, man. Those tropical storms are dangerous.

By Steve from OH

August 17, 2008 11:05 PM | Link to this

THB, I agree about Flowers, but even if we move him to first, we’re eventually gonna have to make a decision between him and Freeman.

By Carroll Rogers

August 17, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this

Da Mick, let me just say I find it a little ironic to get a “call a spade a spade” speech in an anonymous posting on the internet.

And secondly, I’m not one of the guys. I am not a guy.

By SNIPER-69

August 17, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this

LEW & DOB, I think that’s a great strategy. Ignore the ovbious and keep telling yourself there’s no place like home, there’s no place like home….but there are two major problems here. First, you’re not in Kansas. Second, The Mets are in first place while the braves are securley in FOURTH!!

By BravesFanInRockies

August 17, 2008 11:13 PM | Link to this

Tomahawkin,*

You’re right. The Braves are built for the three-run HR and they don’t have enough players who can do that consistently.

Chipper and Heap and Tex have been the only true run producing threats on the team this year, and of course Tex is gone. Blanco gets on base — that’s good — but can’t get himself into scoring position with extra-base power or by stealing bases. Kotsay and Infante have done as well or better than expected but they were always supposed to be complementary players.

KJ and Yunel and Frenchy and Diaz just didn’t do what was needed to support the rest of the offense.

By Supes

August 17, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this

Looking at the entire Braves OF, it’s one of the weakest in the majors.

Jeff is below average.

Kotsay is serviceable, but he doesn’t provide sufficient power numbers.

Blanco is a decent lead off guy, but I’m yet to see him steal a lot of bases. He has improved getting on base, but where is the speed once he gets on? Not enough steals.

Entire OF has to be “under construction” if the Braves are to contend for the NL East next year.

Yes, pitching is priority, and the Braves should go after a front line starter and a middle of the rotation starter as well.

However, you need productive OF play. Can’t contend with the players we have now.

By Jake

August 17, 2008 11:25 PM | Link to this

Hey Da Mick

Say what you want about Jeff’s gigantic struggles this year, but the guy was very clutch up until this year. He was our leading hitter in that he led the team in go ahead RBI’s and hitting with two outs. He may be struggling mightily in those categories this year, but he has come thru in the pass. Remember this is a sport where being successful means you succeed only about 3 out of 10 times. Give credit were credit is due. I’m not saying he is better than Mac, but he came up big for us quite a few times in his first two full years.

By Tomahawkin

August 17, 2008 11:28 PM | Link to this

Deep Throat My bad Brah, I mentioned One-dimensional I was referring to Relying on the 3-run homer approach that we employ in R.I.S.P. situations

Our lack of a fundamental offense is pretty much what I have been venting about over the last 2 and a half years…

Gotta cosign on the fact that our corner outfielder tandem has been garbage this year

Someone referred to sendine Francoeur down for the rest of the year to get him straightened out for 09

Adam Dunn Maybe a good option, but I have a feeling that if he comes to the “A” then his power numbers will drop a bit, but we do need an intimidating threat other than “Hoss” and B-Macc…

By Wayne in Utah

August 17, 2008 11:40 PM | Link to this

keylargo Shoulda known you were from the Keys by your screen name. We were down in Key West chillin’ about 3 summers ago. Loved it! Wild chickens running around all over the place.

Stay safe, and get back to us after the blow over!

By Pepperidge Blogs Remembers

August 17, 2008 11:45 PM | Link to this

By keylargo May 10, 2008 8:22 PM

DOB I know this is unlikely, but that’s part of the blog. I know the Marlins payroll is about $23M and that the new stadium is years away for them. The question is what would it take in addition to Escobar to get Hanley Ramirez from the Marlins. I don’t think the average Braves fan realizes that Ramirez will be another A Rod type player. He’s 25, 6’3” 210, hit .330 with 29 homers last year. The Marlins are talking to him about 6 years @ $70M. That’s affordable.

By keylargo May 24, 2008 11:32 PM

Hanley Ramirez is the next A Rod and is under contract for the next 6 years for $70 - less than $12M a year for a superstar. I know Yunel E. is one hell of a SS and is young. Hanley Ramirez is a better SS, younger, faster(13 SB this year - more than the top 3 Braves combined),and far more power (more than any Brave but CJ with 9). He also doesn’t have a no trade clause. Escobar is Cuban and would be a huge asset to Miami to help draw fans to this failing franchise. I heard he had 200 people on his guest list the last time the Braves were in Miami.

By keylargo May 24, 2008 11:58 PM

FloridaBrave I’ll tell you why they would trade Ramirez. Because they can get a comparable SS for $10M a year less and prospect(s) they can afford for several years. You live down here and know that a Cuban SS would immediately be King of Miami. Ramirez is a Dominican and that is not the same to the Cuban community.

By David O’Brien May 25, 2008 1:33 AM

Trade Hanley Ramirez? Please. Use logic. They just signed him as the face of their franchise for years to come as they move into a new ballpark. They don’t then trade him because he had a bad couple of weeks after the deal was signed. That’s just ridiculous….

Oh, and the Braves will be quite happy paying a budding star shortstop less over the next four years combined than Hanley will average per season in his contract….

One other thing: I covered the Marlins when they had Livan Hernandez and Miami native Alex Fernandez (also of Cuban ancestry) in their starting rotation n their starting rotation. The team studied the average crowd size for games with each of its starting pitchers.

Guess what? The average crowds when those two pitched weren’t even the highest among the starters. There was ZERO impact at the gate, and both of them were bonafide heroes in the Cuban community down there.

By keylargo May 25, 2008 10:56 AM

FloridaBrave Regarding your suggestion of trading the Cuban B. Pena for Cody Ross of the Marlins, that would be a SUPER trade for the Braves. The Marlins would love to have Pena from a PR standpoint but I’m not sure they would be getting a comparible player.

By keylargo May 28, 2008 7:07 PM

TJ, I do not have any inside knowledge of the desire to trade Hanley but I have lived in South Florida for nine years and I know the Marlins like I know the Braves. As I said a few days ago, Yunel Escobar would be King of Miami if he were dealt here as a Cuban.

By FloridaBrave May 28, 2008 7:29 PM

keylargo, If the Marlins planned on trading Ramirez, would they just have signed him long term? DOB mentioned that the Marlins’ attendance also didn’t go up when they started their Cuban pitchers so I also believe you’re overestimating that.

By keylargo August 7, 2008 8:03 PM

I’m going to say something I said two months ago if people are now willing to part with Escobar. Trade him and whatever else it would take to get Hanley Ramirez. You ask why the Marlins would trade him? They could have a Cuban SS(Ramirez is Dominican) and if you think that doesn’t matter in Miami you are wrong.

By keylargo August 7, 2008 8:47 PM

I not sure the other teams would have the “holecard” that Escobar as a Cuban would be. Escobar would draw probably in the neighborhood of 5,000 extra fans a game.

By keylargo August 17, 2008 8:10 PM

I’ve brought this up before and have not gotten any backers on it but I am proposing it again. Trade Escobar and a prospect or two for Hanley Ramirez. Escobar would fit the Marlins mold for players and is Cuban, a huge advantage at ticket sales.

By Chop Chop

August 17, 2008 11:48 PM | Link to this

I want hitters, dammit!

Of course, Campillo will stink next year, Jurrjens will be mediocre, Morton’s id will be hid, Jo-Jo will be Damian Moss without the good season, Moylan will be a bum again after his one great season in the bigs, Soriano will miss the whole year because Wayne called him a “whiny b!tch” too many times, Ohman will be retained and not be as good, Boyer will need season-ending surgery in February, and Buddy Carlyle will be our #2 starter by mid-May, but that’s okay because…

I want hitters, dammit!

Seriously though, the Braves desperately need power in order to be able to win ballgames with Bobby Cox as manager. He’s not going to change how he manages a game in what is, I hope, his final season as manager of this team. Bobby wants to wait for the three-run HR. This year’s team hasn’t hit many of those, so go get players who can do that for next season. That’ll make it easier for Bobby to manage.

If Wren doesn’t want to build a team that Bobby will be really comfortable managing, that would be our realization that Wren is cutting ties with the Cox/Schuerholz years. I just don’t see how Wren could handicap the team (that’s what he’d be doing whether he means to or not) like that in Bobby’s last year.

If Wren does sign players specifically for Bobby Cox’s managerial style, the next manager will also have to wait for those three-run HRs. It’s a tough spot for Wren to be in. He has absolutely no winning background or experience to point to and say, “Look, Bobby. Your way of doing things isn’t going to work. We’re doing things my way now.”

The more I think about it, the more likely it is that I think we’ll see a mixture of strategies next year. That’s probably the worst thing Frank Wren could do, but he simply has to prepare for the future and try to help Bobby win next year. It will not be easy to walk that tightrope. It’s hard to see that working out well, which means that this team could have problems for some time to come.

By keylargo

August 17, 2008 11:52 PM | Link to this

Thank you very much Wayne. I don’t think there is much to this but we will get some wind and rain for sure.

They ran all the tourist off, closing all the motels, campgrounds and parks. How’s this for luck - the kids have their first two days of school canceled.

I can stand some wind, our houses are built for that, but those floods are a pain. Hopefully just some wind and rain.

Thanks again, will send a weather report tomorrow!! 8)

By jimcpa

August 17, 2008 11:54 PM | Link to this

I feel sorry for the announcers right now. This team is so lifeless and predictable right now its almost impossible to make a broadcast entertaining..and da mick is right, the club just panders to smoltz..hes not a good announcer and really shoulf focus on his personal world…rip smoltzie

By ObiWanKobe

August 17, 2008 11:55 PM | Link to this

* Da Moron*; Carroll & DOB are beat writers. They are paid to write what they see, period. The can opine in the blog if they so choose, just as you & I, & all others are allowed to if they so choose. You were completely out of line in going after Carroll the way you did. You don’t see her telling you how to pick up trash on the side of the road…

By Wayne in Utah

August 18, 2008 12:11 AM | Link to this

I am hearing a lot of conflicting thoughts on what the Braves need or do not need.

One the one hand, I hear that we have lived and died by the 3 run homer, and then others say we need to not rely on the 3 run HR. Then I hear we are dying because we don’t have enough thumpers.

So, do we want another 3-run HR guy, or do we want to get some players who can hit and move runners over.

To be honest, I don’t think it is as simple as some would make it seem. I think you can have the thumpers, but we need guys who can work the count, and also be able to get a base hit when needed, or move runners over.

The key is this: If we can’t keep the other team from scoring more than 4 runs a game average, then what does it matter.

Pitching and defense. That’s what it comes down to. Sure, you gotta be able to score runs, but if you can’t hold the other team down, it becomes a “thumping” contest.

Lots of good talk tonight, mixed with a few goof balls. To be honest, I think we are all saying basically the same things, that we need pitching, and some hitting and some luck.

There are so many ways a team can be improved. I think Frank Wren is a good guy, and will make some good moves for the Braves. I have loved Bobby Cox for years, but his use of the lineup and bullpen has been inexplicably less “Bobby Cox” in recent years than I would hope for. Is this the time for him to move aside, and let someone else take the reigns?? And if he did, who would that be?

I have no confidence in Terry Pendleton as a hitting coach, and would hope we get someone else as the manager, when it is Bobby’s time to go.

How about Snitker or the manager down at Richmond? (can’t remember his name).

NOW, I am rambling. Sorry friends.

No more late night GM proposals. Caught too much grief on the first one.

:-)

(go Jorge!)

By Deep Throat

August 18, 2008 12:30 AM | Link to this

I think you can have the thumpers, but we need guys who can work the count, and also be able to get a base hit when needed, or move runners over.

Why not both? Dunn hits 40+ homeruns a year, walks 100 times and put up an OBP in the .380’s. Simply put, he works the count, gets on base AND hits homeruns. All-around awesome hitter.

Please people, stop listening to Joe Simpson. “Small ball” and playing for one run is not a winning game-plan unless it’s late-and-close. Nor are Infante’s basehits any more majestic and “auraful” than anyone else’s. And “going the other way” is nothing special either…hits are hits, pulled or not.

By NO MORE BOBBY

August 18, 2008 12:54 AM | Link to this

1. Very cool of Francoeur!!!

2. Kotchman is just another LaRoche.

3. SMOLTZ FOR MANAGER 2010!!!!!!

By Arvo

August 18, 2008 2:09 AM | Link to this

Kotchman is just another LaRoche.

Minus the power and the goofy charm.

By kevin

August 18, 2008 6:26 AM | Link to this

Playoffs we been out of them since 2005 n more n who is to blame morons in front office…and are loveable manager Bobby(beat is wife)cox and TP they need to Go! There no fire in these guys they playin like Tampa bay did lousy as bad as Pirates worser…and no we will not be in playoffs next season if Bobby cox n TP are back again….we on way lose 92 games folks this year…be soon hit 100 that be next season under the eyes of Bobby cox wife beater n TP the worst battin coach in the Natl & american league!

By TommyP

August 18, 2008 6:30 AM | Link to this

From Bobby Cox: “They’ve got really good pitching, they’re just rebuilding their club on the field.”

Ya think? Gee….maybe the Giants are going to have an idea which youngsters are major league ready this off-season.

Meanwhile, the Braves……………

LEW: Gotta disagree with a statement you made. You said that Anderson couldn’t do any better than Blanco. How do you know that?

Blanco’s at .258 with a .316 slug.%. I realize he’s adept at working the count, that’s a big plus. I also realize he strikes out a lot and has 11 steals, decent but nothing special.

Has Anderson done ANYTHING in the majors to suggest he can’t succeed? Or in the minors?

Puzzling.

By Elmer

August 18, 2008 6:49 AM | Link to this

The management,Wrenn and Cox,who put their money on Smoltz(40+),Hampton (out since ‘05) and Glavine,who could go back to NY, bare the main responsibility for our demise. And they will be around next year too.

By aaron

August 18, 2008 7:59 AM | Link to this

please get TP the heck out of atlanta, first frenchy can’t hit and now it’s casey? kotchman came over here on a roll and look at him now, 5 minutes with TP and the guy can’t hit the ball of a tee!

what a joke of a hitting coach? he must be getting side checks from philly and new york.

where’s julio franco when you need him?he’d be a great hitting coach

By katz

August 18, 2008 8:35 AM | Link to this

Hey Katz, I can’t decide if you are a deranged English teacher, who’s about to go postal, or Carroll’s sweety, but either way it seemed like you missed my adroit points in your anguish over my spelling. While he had a couple of fine years with the bat here, I don’t think it is only MY personal opinion that Andrew Jones

It’s Andruw, not Andrew, you idiot. This ain’t just a lil’ nitpicking over spelling ……………….. it’s the guy’s name and you repeatedly spell it wrong ………….. which tells me you didn’t watch many games when he played and you didn’t read many articles about him either. If someone spells most things on here wrong, I don’t care…………. but the Andrew vs. Andruw misspelling, especially when done multiple times in one post, is always very telling that someone is not a big Braves fan no matter how much they try to pretend that to be the case.

By Shaun

August 18, 2008 8:52 AM | Link to this

Deep Throat, well said at 12:30 a.m. Adam Dunn would be a good addition to any lineup—he hits for power and gets on base a lot. Defense has always been a problems put he makes up for it enough to be one of the more valuable leftfielders around.

By Efrim

August 18, 2008 9:07 AM | Link to this

I don’t expect the Braves to pay for Dunn, I mean which player(at their price tag) would you rather have?

Adam Dunn for 6 years and 102 million or Milton Bradley for 2 years and 16 million?

That might be a little high for Dunn, but I expect him to get at least a 5 year deal worth 80 million…at least.

By kenny

August 18, 2008 9:08 AM | Link to this

Jeff Francoeur, through the age of 24: 2157 PAs, .269 AVG, .312 OBP, .439 SLG, 107 doubles, 9 triples, 72 homers, 107 walks, 407 Ks

Sammy Sosa, through the age of 24: 2052 PAs, .243 AVG, .290 OBP, .413 SLG, 76 doubles, 18 triples, 70 homers, 115 walks, 493 Ks

By southbeachdietfreak

August 18, 2008 9:08 AM | Link to this

keylargo

Stay safe, bro! Only been through one TS in my life, that was in Charleston, SC. It was TS Gaston (2004?) and the thing I remember most is that our neighbor’s kids were playing in the streets during the whole thing! CRAZY!

By southbeachdietfreak

August 18, 2008 9:13 AM | Link to this

katz

I r a gud speler… I gradated from hs on my 8th try. i aint no idot…

By Cooch Steals

August 18, 2008 9:15 AM | Link to this

great post about Tim L.Supes

he simply stole the comments from a month old article. he does that crap all the time

By Wayne in Utah

August 18, 2008 9:19 AM | Link to this

kevin Please learn some basic grammar, and learn to spell. Also, please keep the personal attacks to a minimum. If we had won 10 World Series, would you give a damn if there was an incident from years ago about Bobby Cox?

Make your point, and then shut the heck up please.

By katz

August 18, 2008 9:31 AM | Link to this

keylargo, when the storm blows on in, go out on your deck while the wind is howling and the rain is pouring on down and scream at God at the top of your lungs. Tell Him to take you and spare all the others. Tell Him how sorry you are for all the bad things you done did and you know He’s angry with you but He doesn’t need to take it out on everyone. And when the rain and wind keeps coming, crumple to the floor in despair, let out a good cry and call The Almighty a vindictive SOB.

By Original Jon

August 18, 2008 9:57 AM | Link to this

Carroll I got your back, all the way.

By McFann Ô

August 18, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this

Wayne—

Good one at 9:19!

Steve from OH—

’S OK…McCann’s OBP took a bit of dip in the three games before Sunday. But that pinch-IBB put it back to .380. The cool thing about his OBP is that it’s higher than the gas prices at the QT we go to!

: J

Stay safe, Keylargo!

By McFann Ô

August 18, 2008 10:12 AM | Link to this

Wayne—

I really hope they don’t hire TP as manager when Bobby retires, too.

I’d rather have Snitcker, Eddie…but please not TP!

By DAP

August 18, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this

kenny thanx for the stats comparing frenchy and sosa. but, im pretty sure we all hope that jeff never juices his way to the top.

the thing to remember is, everybody has a different road through thier major league careers. you never really know which way a guy is going to go.

what we do know is that jeff is going to work hard, and his recent admission that he has stunk this year goes a long way towards the fans being behind him 100%

we are going to love a guy who works hard, is open and honest about his failures and isnt cocky. even if he isnt the best player.

i still think jeff is going to be a pretty good one.

By Phoebe

August 18, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this

I guess 15 straight division titles mean nothing to some of you people. How anyone can question Bobby Coxes coaching I’ll never know. The bottom line is we have no pitching or hitting other than Chipper and McCann. Get rid of Chipper? Are you kidding? What a stupid idea!!!

By Phoebe

August 18, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this

Oh yeah, get rid of Terry Pendleton and get someone who doesn’t screw up players — ie Kochman. He was hitting 333 when he got here and now .189 after Pendleton got ahold of him. Need I say more?

By Cecil34

August 18, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this

McFann

I see ppaddy has jumped on the Mac to first bandwagon….

Ok, I have decided to back off on that line for awhile and see what Kotchman is going to do for the next year or two.

But, in your heart of hearts, you know that at some point in the future…..

Just messin with ya, I think he is going to be “da man” when Hoss hangs it up.

Wait a minute….could he play third? ;-)

By Lew

August 18, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this

TommyP- Dude, in response to your post this morning-Up front, I do not mean any of this in a contentious manner. What I meant in regard to Blanco and Anderson is that they are essentially the same player-i.e. , they are speedy, leadoff -type guys capable of stealing a base (IF Bobby lets them) and are good defensive players with no power to speak of.

If you were here last Spring, you might remember that I was posting from Orlando about how extremely impressed I was with Josh’s play. His speed is something to marvel at (saw several plays, offensively and defensively that left me amazed) and he’s a great outfielder. However, the Braves went with Blanco and honestly, as much as I wanted Anderson to be the chosen one, Gregor has impressed.

I just don’t think Anderson would add much to what we’ve already gotten from Blanco. Do you seriously think he would have been given any more opportunity to steal bases? Do you seriously think that given the same sample size as Blanco that he would be THAT much better in BA or power numbers (keep in mind that Josh has an extremely SMALL sample size in the bigs-no matter how good the nymbers)? How much of a difference do you seriously think that Anderson’s presence would have made this year as opposed to Blanco’s? Do you seriously think that Josh’s speed is so much more than Blanco’s that he would have improved on Gregor’s number two ranking in the NL and the sixth in all of baseball getting infield hits or bunt singles? IMO that the difference would be minimal-or at least not better enough to have changed the outcome to this point.

When all is said and done, like I’ve been arguing (in a friendly manner, of course-cause I’m kinder and gentler, right?) with BravesFanInRockies, that what we really need to address is pitching. He rightly points out that the Braves have had 58 quality starts and still have a losing record. As true as this may be, we also have 43 starts that went 5 innings or less (bare minimum of 200 Bullpen innings added as a result). Because of all those less than quality starts (and keep in mind that even with a quality start, the pen could still pitch three innings, more if we have Free Baseball), the pen has completely fallen apart due to overuse (necessary under the circumstances, but still) and THAT is what is causing the quality starts (we lost 14 of them) to result in such poor numbers. We can no longer rely on five inning pitchers-we MUST have some innings eaters or we face the same old result. I don’t like that alternative, do you?

Pitching must be the first thing addressed this winter. It won’t be easy, considering the small Free Agent pool and the attendant cost, but it must be done. We can replace the entire outfield with power hitting studs and we will still experience waves of futility if we do not have dominant pitching (look at the Phillies). We’ve had plenty of power the past few years-Andruw hit 41 and we had a losing record. In 07, Frenchy hit more HR than he has this year, hit close to .300 and we still came in third (along with another 25 dingers from AJ). We had Tex for an entire calendar year of awesome power production and we still had a sub .500 record during his abbreviated tenure. This should prove that power is not the answer. Strong, or dominant pitching IS. It MUST be addressed, first and foremost.

One thing I WOULD like to see, though, is some of that power we were told Kotchman has. Honestly, I’m less than impressed with him to this point (never really could figure out why so many Denizens clamored for his acquisition for two full years of trade scenarios). I know there’s an adjustment period coming to a different league like he has and his tummy has hurt, but some kind of indication of offensive talent would be nice. Sometime? Soon? It would go a long way towards feeling somewhat better about next year’s prospects.

By kenny

August 18, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this

Jeff Francoeur, through the age of 24: 2157 PAs, .269 AVG, .312 OBP, .439 SLG, 107 doubles, 9 triples, 72 homers, 107 walks, 407 Ks

Dale Murphy, through the age of 25: 2209 PAs, .260 AVG, .325 OBP, .445 SLG, 74 doubles, 9 triples, 92 homers, 190 walks, 434 Ks

By Shaun

August 18, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this

Francoeur could learn a few things from Kevin Youkilis.

By kenny

August 18, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this

Jeff Francoeur, through the age of 24: 2157 PAs, .269 AVG, .312 OBP, .439 SLG, 107 doubles, 9 triples, 72 homers, 107 walks, 407 Ks

Andre Dawson, through the age of 24: 2002 PAs, .268 AVG, .309 OBP, .454 SLG, 78 doubles, 30 triples, 69 homers, 96 walks, 349 Ks

By McFann Ô

August 18, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this

Cecil34—

Haha! First, maybe…third? Ah, no…haha…: >

But he will take Chipper’s place in one respect: As you said, being “da man”.

I have decided to back off on that line for awhile and see what Kotchman is going to do for the next year or two.

Thank you.

But, yes, maybe someday in the far far distant future…

By DAP

August 18, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this

this is what i would like to see the braves do, im sure wren is feeling out potential deals, and im not sure if these are realistic, but here they are.

offer raul ibanez 2 years, $14.5 mil

offer mike cameron 2 years $15.5 mil with a mutual option for 2011 of $6mil

offer jon garland 3 year $30mil

offer the blue jays a trade for roy halliday, hopefully without giving up to much.

if we can pull all of these off, i think we are a much better team, and it doesnt handcuff us for a long time by signing dunn or burrell or sabathia for 8 years or something crazy.

we all know we have some good talent about 2 years away, so while we try to win in 2009, we cant do it at the expense of trading away or blocking our young players. thats why veterans are the answer!

By Piersonbrave

August 18, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this

The Braves (fans) should not be placing to much hope on Smoltz making much of a comback. Even If he tries to come back he should remember that he still has several decades to walk this Earth. Doing so with a bum shoulder would take away (greatly) from his quality of life. As one of his greates fans I think it would be sad for him to go through life that way.

By KyleH

August 18, 2008 11:27 AM | Link to this

If the braves want to get back to the playoffs its going to be through pitching. so… 1. sign a #1 starter preferably CC (less injury prone

1. sign Smoltz OR a another starter like Dempster

2. If Frency doesnt turn it around by the end of the year maybe suggest winter ball for some extra ABs

We have the payroll to sign two pitchers and i really dont like Pat Burrell or Adam Dunn. really bad defense and both are streaky hitters. So maybe 1.CC 2.Dempster or Smoltz 3.Jurrjens 4.Campillo 5.Hampton, Morton or Reyes

then next year in august we might get Hudson back for a playoff push. then our rotation: 1.CC 2.Hudson 3.Smoltz 4.Jurrjens 5.Campillo

By Lew

August 18, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this

KyleH-Dude, IF Smoltz is able to return at all, it will be as a reliever, NOT as a starter.

By BravesFanInRockies

August 18, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this

Mornin’ denizens,

I’ll wade back into this and say that Lew, I agree that more dependable and healthier starting pitching would have helped this team a lot. They probably would have kept Tex and tried to add a hitter at the deadline had Smoltz or Glavine or Hudson stayed off the DL.

And Wayne, my concern about the team goes beyond a lack of power in certain spots in the lineup to a lack of overall balance. For all the grief he gets on here, TP has actually developed a lineup of players who can regularly get on base. And that’s the most important offensive skill.

In isolation, however, OBP is not the be-all and end-all if you can’t score runners once they’re on. That’s where power balances out solid on base skills.

How important is it to score runs? Here’s something to chew on: Since 1991, the Braves finished in the top five in runs scored in the NL 12 times. The years they didn’t were interesting, including 1995 (9th) and 1999 (7th), both the WS winners and arguably their best overall teams. They’re 10th in RS this year and we all know where this bunch is headed.

The Braves didn’t win with just pitching and defense during the streak. They scored runs in bunches regularly.

To become perennial contenders, they’re going to need to come up with the entire package — a team that can score a lot and prevent the opponents from scoring. And from where I sit, upgrading the offense is the more immediate need. One more effective starter may be enough to get this team back in the hunt.

By Steve from OH

August 18, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this

KyleH, if you don’t like Dunn or Burrell who do you suggest we acquire to fix our outfield troubles.

P.S. Did you read my earlier post that give their home/road and monthly splits?

By keylargo

August 18, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

TESTING, TESTING, ONE, TWO, THREE…………

On auxillary power, having done things to my electric panel that are highly illegal, I am running my household on 5KW of electricity. It’s a good thing Joe West is not around or he would make me shut this down.

I think Home Depot, Publix Grocery Stores and millions of people who would not normally have a job have somehow have made this Hurricane stuff into BIG BUSINESS>

I have enough gasoline for the generators(three of them) to permanently shut off the electricity, water to drink, bath, flush, plywood to board up windows, food for weeks, batteries to last quintuplets a Christmas.

Some day, after tiring of going through this ordeal, hundreds of complacent people are going to die in a real storm.

Meanwhile, I’m going for a bike ride! It’s really fun to ride in driving rain and 40 mph winds. 8) (McFann taught me how to make that smiley face) yes I have a screw loose but I like “violent weather”>>>LOL

By hydee

August 18, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

offer the blue jays a trade for roy halliday, hopefully without giving up to much

Why on earth would the Jays give away one of the best pitchers in baseball for not too much??? Seriously, why even write something like that??

By Lew

August 18, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this

Quite a few Denizens have suggested the acquisition of Ryan Dempster. My first thoughts on this were “No Way”. However, a further review of his career proves somewhat more positive than I had originally thought that it would. I’m still somewhat concerned that this was his first year starting in some time and though his season is impressive, I still wonder if what we’re seeing is a career year, maybe not to be repeated.

That being said, IF he could be acquired without a huge bidding war (something I’m certainly not optimistic about), what kind of contract (length and amount) would be reasonable for us to pay? Also, would we want him as our number one or number three starter? I’m not at all certain bringing him in at the price he will cost, that he will be a decent top of rotation guy. I wouldn’t bring him to Atlanta as a replacement for Hudson, that’s for sure-but that’s just my thinking on the topic.

Thoughts, anyone? Shaun-I’d like your view on this one.

By BravesFanInRockies

August 18, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this

kenny,

Dawson and Ellis Valentine aren’t bad comparisons to Frenchy at this point in their careers. Of course, no two players will have identical paths. Frenchy has taken a big step backward this year. If he returns to ‘06/’07 form, he should have a lengthy and productive career. If ‘09 is too much like ‘08, he’ll be lucky to be on a big league roster by, say, 2010.

Also, I don’t see Murphy as a sound comparison because early in his career, he could run for a big guy. Francouer’s never shown that kind of basestealing speed. And Murph also drew walks at a higher ratio than JF. He swung and missed a lot of pitches, but he did have very good strike zone recognition. (Here’s another place where JF is more like Dawson or Valentine than Murphy.)

By Billy

August 18, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this

“It was music to the ears of free agents, and their agents.

With typical Steinbrennerian certitude, new New York Yankees owner Hank Steinbrenner indicated his team is ready to open its wallet in the offseason, especially if the current downturn is not corrected and the team misses the playoffs for the first time since 1995.

“We’re going to win it next year,” Steinbrenner said. “If we need to add a top veteran pitcher, we’ll do that. We’ll do whatever we need to do. Next year we’ll be extremely dangerous.”

If the Yankees want CC the Yankees will sign CC. The Braves will not get into a bidding war with the Yankees.

By DAP

August 18, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this

hydee Why on earth would the Jays give away one of the best pitchers in baseball for not too much???

dont be stupid. you know what i mean.

By Efrim

August 18, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this

Lew

I brought it up earlier, if Ryan Dempster would cost 3 years and 30 million, I’m doing it. He misses bats and gets a lot of ground balls. He is not as good as Ben Sheets and he is probably just as much as an injury risk, but he will be cheaper.

I would much rather have him than Jon Garland. I don’t care how durable Garland is.

Burnett or Dempster? Dempster.

Sabathia and his contract or Dempster and his contract? Dempster.(based on the fact that we aren’t out bidding the Yankees, Mets or Red Sox)

Sheets or Dempster? For the money and years Sheets will get, probably Dempster.

By Shaun

August 18, 2008 12:20 PM | Link to this

Frenchy has taken a big step backward this year.

BravesFanInRockies, in some ways he has but in some ways he has not. He’s hitting more grounders and linedrives and fewer flyballs and in turn fewer homers. But he’s walking more and striking out less.

What he needs to do is learn to be aggressive only on pitches he can crush and actually try to crush those pitches but continue to improve at laying off everything else. It seems this year he is so concerned with improving his K rate that he’s getting on top of more balls instead of swinging for the fences when he gets a pitch he can handle…that and the batted balls aren’t finding holes.

By Steve from OH

August 18, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this

Oh, boy. That shoulda been a question mark.

By Efrim

August 18, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this

DAP

They would want Heyward for Halladay. Without question. I mean if you are JP Riccardi, you better get 5 prospects back for him. And I don’t mean just quantity, that package will have to be better than what the M’s gave up for Bedard. So Hanson and Heyward would have to be coming my way if I am the Blue Jays GM. Along with others….

As far as your other signings, I like Ibanez, but I would rather have Bradley.

I don’t like Cameron,

I’d rather have Dempster than Garland. If we are talking about 3 years and 30 million. Which in this market, it may be a little low.

By David O'Brien

August 18, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this

KyleH: I like the call on Dempster, a realistic target and solid top-of-the-rotation guy, if more a 1b type than an elite No. 1 ace (aren’t but 10-12 or so of those).

As for CC, I think Tommy Hanson’s a lot more likely to be in Braves’ rotation next season than Sabathia, who’s going to get probably $18-20 mill-a-year for 5-7 years….

Hey, here’s a scary thought about NL strikeouts and ERA leader Tim Lincecum: He’s eight months YOUNGER than Charlie Morton….

By DAP

August 18, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this

billy that quote by stienbrenner, first of all, illustates his problem…the yanks have a down year, and they are going to spend thier way out of it, and it hasnt worked so far.

the yanks are going to sign sabathia AND tex at least, and they will probably get dunn or burrell as well. they are going to spend every bit of that payrole they have opening up, and maybe more. but, until they get young, and make thier own stars, they are going to have injuries and frusterations.

By hydee

August 18, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this

dont be stupid. you know what i mean.

What you said was hopefully the BJ’s would trade Halladay for not too much, which in itself is a stupid statement.

By hydee

August 18, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this

dont be stupid. you know what i mean.

What you said was hopefully the BJ’s would trade Halladay for not too much, which in itself is a stupid statement.

By McFann Ô

August 18, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this

Keylargo It’s a good thing Joe West is not around or he would make me shut this down.

Haha…no kidding.

Great smiley, BTW! 8 ) (I got it from Random—only his has a nose.)

Three hours and 55 minutes…

By DAP

August 18, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this

efrim They would want Heyward for Halladay.

then i would say no.

i like bradley too, but the injuries scare me off a bit. but i guess if you have to choose between a 37 year old and a 31 year old that is hurt alot…the injury risks even out…? i think bradley is a better hitter, but i think ibanez will end up playing more in the end.

i dont think there are alot of cameron fans, but the guy plays good defense, better than kotsay mostly because he is just faster, steals a few bases and has alot of power. he has also played more games than kotsay despite being suspended for awhile. the BA isnt good, his his OBP, which is more important to look at, is decent. cameron is a much better option than resigning kotsay. in fact, even if we dont get cameron, i dont feel very strongly about resigning kotsay.

if we can get dempster for 3 year $30mil, i would do that to. i see garland as more of a stablizer for the rotation, but if demster makes all his starts i expect him to win more. garland may appear more durable, but you never know when a guy is going to go down…i think id go with the better pitcher for the same price if i could.

By Shaun

August 18, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this

DOB, that is scary. Even if his small frame breaks down at a Pedro Martinez rate, he’s got another decade of greatness. We’ll see if the Giants can surround him with anything.

By Kentavo

August 18, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this

We need bonafide outfield pop - not like when JS tried to fool us by signing Mondesi and Jordan - who were both gone by June.

Yes, we need pitching, and I’d love to get an ace.

But even with the broken down pitching staff, we’d still be much, much better off (and probably a tick over .500) if someone other than McCAnn and Chipper could actually change a game with one swing on a consistent basis. They can’t do it all.

I mean, come on, Charlie Morton kept us in the game yesterday, and Lincecum is better than good, but we had the G-men on the ropes in the 8th inning but the Human Rally Killer grounds weakly to 2b.

By ppaddy123

August 18, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this

OK Carroll to resume this discussion on McCann from yesterday……..You stated the Braves might move McCann to 1st when his body begins to break down?! Are you kidding me?! Your solution to a problem the Braves have had at 1st base for 6-7 years is to wait until McCann begins to break down to move him there? Really….Won’t that be like buying a three legged horse? It certainly wouldn’t solve the on going power shortage at 1st. I’m sure Kotchman is a fine defensive 1st baseman. But, I don’t think he’ll ever hit more than 15-20 HR’s. It’s Adam LaRoche all over again. Just look at the stats this year for all MLB 1st basemen. McCann’s OBS of .928 is tied with……Mark Teixeira, which is 4th among all starting 1st basemen. Now, if we compare starting catchers and their OBS, the top 4 are: McCann (.928), Geovany Soto (.866), Joe Mauer (.865), and Russell Martin (.806). Starting catchers have never traditionally been counted on for offense. If a team had a good hitting catcher, that was a bonus. Mike Piazza is the best example of this. He was a feared hitter` for most of his career, but became much less feared toward the end. How much did catching all those years play into his decline? Really good hitters are the exception to the norm. Most MLB players are at best average. Brian McCann is an above average hitter. Playing catcher will put him on the bench at least 1 game a week and put him at a higher risk of injury. Just doesn’t make sense to me…..say, would you like to buy a three legged horse?

By Renegator

August 18, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this

Hey, here’s a scary thought about NL strikeouts and ERA leader Tim Lincecum: He’s eight months YOUNGER than Charlie Morton….

It would be nice for the Braves farm system to actually develop a front-line starter sometime…

By Jeff Kent

August 18, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this

Vin Scully talks too much

By Jeff R

August 18, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this

I believe that the Braves have something on the order of $47 million available next season (according to Jeff Schultz). Sabathia will command top dollar, but Wren should give making a play for his services serious consideration. The guy’s an ace and an anchor; the dollars would be better spent on him than on good but lower tier pitchers.

Granted, the Braves didn’t have the budget latitude or the inclination to pursue Santana, but he’s really begun to find his groove. As much as I hate the thought, he’s going to drive the Mets to the division title. That’s what a superior pitcher could mean to a team.

By Efrim

August 18, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this

Renegator

It would be nice for the Braves farm system to actually develop a front-line starter sometime…

Don’t you know, it is all luck with young pitchers, you should trade them while they have value like the Braves did with Feliz. He has a decent shot at becoming maybe okay…….(sarcasm)

By Shaun

August 18, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this

Renegator, Lincecum started all of 13 games in the minors. Not sure how much “developing” the Giants did. Seems he was a great pitcher when they got him.

Want the Braves to get a pitcher like Lincecum, hope they get a top 10 draft pick and a pitcher like him is available.

By ppaddy123

August 18, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this

Dempster……..definitely!

By David O'Brien

August 18, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this

I should also add (to the Hanson comment i made) that I think Kris Medlen could get a shot in spring training. When I asked Kotsay about Hanson’s no-hitter (Kotsay was on rehab at the time with Mississippi) and what he thought of the guy, he brought up Medlen, unsolicited, went out of his way to say how impressive the kid was….

In Aug. 11-24 Baseball America, Stark gives out midseason MVP and Cy Young Awards, picks Lincecum and Pujols in NL. But better stuff is his picks for LVP (least valuable) and Cy Yuk. For LVPs, he’s got Andruw (NL) and Richie Sexson (AL), and points out that Andruw was on pace to have the worst offensive season in baseball history.

Only three players have ever even had twice as many strikeouts as hits, and Andruw was right at that pace at the time of Stark’s writing, while batting .172 with a .261 slugging percentage, five homers and 21 RBI (he had 125 strikeouts and 64 hits at that time).

By McFann Ô

August 18, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this

ppaddy, ppaddy, ppadyy!

A three-legged horse? Was Johnny Bench a three-legged horse at first towards the end of his career?

So…McCann’s fourth among first baseman, and first among catchers? Ho-hum…

So they move McCann to first, and wind up with a starting catcher who hits around .220 with a .320 SLG. Whoa…BIG drop off!

Obviously you’re right in that catchers aren’t usually counted on for offense. But, that’s why McCann is so special.

20 homers from Kotchman would be OK if our outfield guys start hitting home runs.

How much you want for that horse, anyway?

By BravesFanInRockies

August 18, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

Shaun (1:29),

Yeah, the downside of largely ignoring college players in the early rounds, as the Braves have done over the past couple of decades, is that you miss out on guys like Lincecum who can help your club within a couple of years of signing.

I wish they’d go after top-flight college players at least some of the time. The last one they pursued was Devine, of course, but the Braves really blew it with him. Rushed him to the bigs and then basically let him rot on the bench after those first few awful outings.

By BravesFanInRockies

August 18, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Thanks for the 411 on Medlen.

Think we’ll see him in September?

By hydee

August 18, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this

DOB-who did he have for Cy Yuk??

By ppaddy123

August 18, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this

*By McFann Ô

August 18, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this

ppaddy, ppaddy, ppadyy!

A three-legged horse? Was Johnny Bench a three-legged horse at first towards the end of his career?

So…McCann’s fourth among first baseman, and first among catchers? Ho-hum…

So they move McCann to first, and wind up with a starting catcher who hits around .220 with a .320 SLG. Whoa…BIG drop off!

Obviously you’re right in that catchers aren’t usually counted on for offense. But, that’s why McCann is so special.

20 homers from Kotchman would be OK if our outfield guys start hitting home runs.

How much you want for that horse, anyway?*

You make my point for me. Playing 1st Base, he’s in the line up everyday! Your Boy…playing everyday! Putting up even bigger numbers, because he’s in the line up………that’s right…..EVERYDAY

By N Nine

August 18, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this

I am such a huge Smoltz fan. I live to see this incrediable person. I’ve meet him twice in my life, and what a nice person. Was very busy with multiple kids at that time. I support whatever he does. He is super loyal. Remember when YANKS tried to brainwash him and he walked away? I would love and expect him to come back STRONG next year. He’s so competetive its amazing. He has tiger wood’s support. As far as his future..well im ok with him pitching next year..Im ok with him being at the mic. I would watch him if he joins as a tv analyst. I would welcome him coaching. Heck, I’d even watch him play full-time golf if he wanted. The man is good at whatever he decides. I’ll be right there with full support. Some even brought up manager for the braves after Cox (please) retires. I’m guessing he’d stay in braves orginazation or join Some media channel while playing golf. John Smoltz what a pleasure knowing you.

By Jack G

August 18, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this

Looks like TP screwed up Kotchmans swing from the Git Go

By Shaun

August 18, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this

BravesFanInRockies, actually my point was that the Braves haven’t had a high draft pick in a while because they’ve been good virtually every year since 1990.

The highest pick they’ve had since 1991 was 14th overall last season. Most years they were picking in the 20s, 30s or 40s overall for their first pick.

I don’t think they’ve ignored college players as much as haven’t had a chance to draft the relatively low-risk players with big up-side. If they would have had an opportunity to take a Lincecum, they probably would have taken it. But Lincecum was a 10th overall pick.

By Cecil34

August 18, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

Pee-Paddy!

McFann knows brother! - you got to leave it alone. She gets sensitive about this.

You are on my page, but we are going to have to let several things happen before anyone really wants to consider this move.

1) We must develop another catcher in the system who can hit like Mac- Clint won’t be the one.

2) The Kotchman experiment has to run it’s course, good or bad.

3) Mac gets another concussion or worse. (McFann, forgive me here)

4) Mac is willing to try it.

5) The Braves are willing to try it.

None of these factors have come to pass yet, and unfortunately they will have to for this scenario to be attempted.

I agree, it is where he will wind up in all likelihood, the real question is when….

By David O'Brien

August 18, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this

Hydee, he had Brett Myers (NL) and Carlos Silva (AL) for his midseason “Cy Yuk” awards….

Jack G (1:59), yeah, right. Kotchman came over and TP went to work having him change his swing right away. Good call by you. You look at what he’s done since he switched leagues and moved to a new team and come to the obvious conclusion that Pendleton changed his swing. Who could argue? You figured it out. Fire him.

By mark

August 18, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this

Let me clear this up for everyone just in case their is some confusion. JOHN SMOLTZ IS NOT COMING BACK!! NEITHER IS GLAVINE!! UNFORTUNATELY THEY ARE DONE!! THEIR AGE AND THEIR INJURIES WILL NOT ALLOW THEM TO COME BACK!!! MADDUX HAS WON 4 LOUSY GAMES THIS YEAR!! THEY ARE ALL DONE AND WILL RETIRE TOGETHER AND THEN BE 1ST BALLOT HOF AS BRAVES TOGETHER!!! Hudson won’t be back to the ALl-star break next year!

Make no mistake people. The Braves are on their way to becoming the team they were pre-91!! We can’t rely on McCann and an aging, oft injure Chipper to carry this offense. Our pitching is embarassing. We need some serious help!!

By Bobby's Cox

August 18, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this

obby’s Cox-Dude, Kotsay has had 16 hits and is batting .390 in his past ten games and has raised his season’s average to .302. He’s also been our hottest hitter recently. Considering our lack of offense, just off the cuff, I’d say that’s why he’s still with the team and not DFA’ed. Quite honestly, since his back seems to be fine with an occasional day off, I wouldn’t mind seeing them sign him for next year as well. He’s done everything asked of him, both offensively and defensively despite a stint on the DL.

You’ve really got to ask yourself something here. Realistically, how big a difference maker do you think Josh Anderson will be? He can’t fill the leadoff position any better than Blanco has and since he has no power to speak of, what exactly does he add that is missing?

LEW

It’s not about “having another slap hitter”. It’s not a question about whether or not Kotsay has been good or hasn’t. It’s not about having a “difference maker” at this point in the season.

I asked the question because the braves SHOULD be evaluating their major-league-ready minor league players at this stage of the season.

Dude, the Yankees waived the WHITE FLAG and brought up some kids….not to make a difference, but to get them experience and to evaluate their talent further. That’s all dude.

And no, I don’t think Kotsay should be back next year. No one with his history of injuries should be allowed on the team next year. Go young.

By Lee in S GA

August 18, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this

Not saying I support it but if the N.L. had the DH like the A.L. Brian McCann would, barring injuries, be in the Braves line-up all season long while getting rest behind the plate. Just curious Cecil34 as a former player how do you feel about the DH?

By Efrim

August 18, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this

Medlen is 5’10”. I sure hope he can stay at starter, but odds are that he might have to return to reliever. That said, his numbers are very impressive. He seems to have better control than Hanson.

By McFann Ô

August 18, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this

Cecil34—

I understand about number 3, man. Believe, nothing scares me quite like a play-at-the-plate.

He’ll wind up playing there in his late years, sure. But I don’t think it’s a good idea RIGHT NOW!

I agree with you’re 1 thing.

Now, this is for you and ppaddy:

If it’s homers you like, consider this:

McCann hits close to 30 homers, Kotchman hits 20. That’s nearly 50 homers.

McCann moves to first, and hits exactly 30 homers. Their new catcher hits 12. That’s 42 HRs.

So we’d be losing power if they move him to first!

BTW—Mets manager Jerry Manuel was ejected by 1B umpire Joe West. Rumor has it that Jerry breathed in Joe’s direction, and Joe did not like the smell of his breath.

By mark

August 18, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this

The offense has stunk since TP has been the hitting coach. I really hope we’re not grooming him to take Bobby’s place some day.

By Rhetorical Question

August 18, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this

Is there a member of the Braves team or organization DOB and his better half, Shaun, WON’T defend?

They’re 56-68, guys.

By ppaddy123

August 18, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this

Cecil34 let me see if I understand you correctly. The braves have to wait until they have another catcher that hits like McCann before they can move him to 1st? ARE YOU KIDDING ME?! Catchers that hit like McCann are rare. Players that HIT like McCann are special. The Kotchman “experiment” to which you refer to was the LaRoche, Thorman, and Wilson “experiment” before him. We need a 1st baseman with lightning in his bat. OK, #3 completely blows my mind…..you want to wait until his brain gets scrambled, again…..before you move him? Maybe you need a three legged horse………he used to run really fast….

By StingerSplash

August 18, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this

mark,

While I was leery (though I wish were Paul Leary of the B-hole Surfers, because then I would be really cool) of bringing back pitchers who are my age, Messers Smoltz and Glavine, Maddux has had zippo support from a rather punchless Padres effort. It’s as if they are not Padres but Trappist monks at the plate, with their bats having taken a vow of silence (except for Adrian Gonzalez, who is a beast).

By CharlieAlphaBravo

August 18, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

DOB:

I’ve always been a big TP fan. Don’t you think most of the accolades for Francoeur’s recent resurgence should be given to him? I mean, maybe it’s a coincidence, maybe not…

By Tami

August 18, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

First off, I just wanted to say that this blog has been a very interesting and active one in the last 24 hours!

Basically, the Braves have a lot of holes to plug up. It’d be nice to know for sure if Frenchy’s problems will only be confined to one year (THIS one), and one year ONLY. With how expensive it would be for the Braves to trade away for good hitting, it might be best to give Jeff one more year. We need to stay more with home-grown talent if at all possible, and develop them.

Pitching…sigh. Well, we always knew that this day would one day come. The entire MLB had been jealous of the Braves for like 14 years with the deep starting pitching they had. But, free agency, greed, wish to play for a certain team before one’s career is over, wish to go back to the W.S. before one’s career is over, etc. comes into play and splits up a pitching staff. So, it’d be a miracle if the Braves will ever be able to assemble a halfway decent pitching staff again. It’s likely to come close. But, we’ll always find ourselves making the unavoidable comparisons to the staff of Glavine, Smoltz, Maddux and Avery et al. To see pitchers of this caliber on the same staff again is just an unlikely occurrence.

The other thing the Braves avoided for so long was the injury bug. Now, they can’t seem to shake it loose no matter what.

The holes that the Braves will have to plug up may not likely be possible in one offseason. It might take a couple of seasons to rebuild this team. I just wouldn’t want the front office to be lured into making a major trading mistake for another “oldster” (a joke since I’m now older than most MLB players at the age of 43). Nor do I want them to “break the bank” for a player that they’ll only have for a season or two.

I’m not sure there’s a clear-cut, easy answer for the Braves’ problem areas to allow them to get back into NL-East contention. Glad I’m not Wren. He’s going to have a very tough, busy offseason.

By BravesFanInRockies

August 18, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

mark,

What are you talking about? How has the offense stunk? (I mean, other than this year, which I’ll give ya.)

The year he took over, 2001, they were 13th in the league in runs scored. They moved up to 10th in 2002, led the league in 2003 and have been in the top five in runs scored every year until 2008.

All with a revolving cast of characters, typically five or six new position players every season.

That’s the only way I know to judge a hitting coach. Does his team score runs?

How has TP failed in any way? Other than this year, of course. Offer some concrete evidence.

By McFann Ô

August 18, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this

Looks like the Pirates decided they don’t wanna win…

Yep. Tyler Yates just loaded the bases with two outs…

BTW—I apologize for the Joe West thing. Sorry.

By ppaddy123

August 18, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this

By mark August 18, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this The offense has stunk since TP has been the hitting coach. I really hope we’re not grooming him to take Bobby’s place some day.

And this blog stinks since you made your coment

By Bulldog Drummond

August 18, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this

Dave O’Brien

Do you ever grow weary of defending Braves coaches and their nose-exploring, nickname-loving manager? It is not at all unreasonable to expect the Braves hitting coach to…COACH HITTING. What else is TP there to do? Read inspirational poetry?

Maybe he hasn’t changed Kotchman’s swing but I’m sure he’s working with him. Something’s not clicking.

By Cecil34

August 18, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this

Lee down South

I think the DH is a travesty to baseball - did not like it in ‘73 and do not like it still.

I know what it is capable of doing stats wise for players who maybe aged or gimpy, but I am not comfortable with it. I think pitchers should hit.

Let’s remember it was created in an era when we had good pitching all across the league and scoring was down. So I see it as a gimmick that has been around too long.

After all, one league has it, one doesn’t? Makes no sense.

McFann

I’m with you - makes no sense with Clint, and if Kotchman hits your 20, then we are all good. In order to do it, you must replace the 20 at least.

Mac is the man, and the Man hits. Me thinks perhaps he should have been on the SI cover in ‘05.

By Chop Chop

August 18, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this

McFann,

That’s why the Braves would have to sign a backup catcher that can hit. I’d love to see McCann play some first base on some of his normal days off. Even ten extra games a year with his bat in the lineup for a full game could make a difference.

As a weird Tech fan who speaks of McCann uncomfortably too much (haha), you surely must realize this.

(Johnny Bench played the outfield, first, and third on the side throughout his twenties. If Johnny could play that many positions when he was younger, I think a young Brian McCann could handle first base ten games a year. It’s a minor point, but it’s worth making when I’m bored on a Monday afternoon.)

By THB

August 18, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this

The Braves might be able to buy low on Aaron Harang or Roy Oswalt, but if they’re looking to get Halladay or Peavy, they will have to give up something like Heyward, Hanson, Flowers, and Locke.

By Renegator

August 18, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this

Shaun

So I guess every front-line starter for all 30 ML teams was drafted in the top 10 draft picks.

By DAP

August 18, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

mark The offense has stunk since TP has been the hitting coach.

no it hasnt.

2007: 810 runs 3rd in NL

2006: 849 runs 2nd in NL

2005: 769 runs 4th in NL

2004: 803 runs 5th in NL

2003: 907 runs 1st in NL

2002: 708 runs 10th in NL

2001: 729 runs 13th in NL

right now were 10th in the league with 566 runs. so the offense has been really good, AND has been really bad. if you want to blame it all on TP, give him credit for the good AND the bad.

By Carroll Rogers

August 18, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

no paddy, brian mccann is not my solution at first base. he’s my solution at catcher. if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.

By McFann Ô

August 18, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

Hey hey! They yanked Tyler and what do you know? NOBODY SCORED!

Is it 4:30 yet?

By Tami

August 18, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

P.S. Oh, yeah! I forgot to add my comments about Smoltzie’s color commentary over the weekend. I stayed with the game just because he was working the color, although it was tough to turn away from the Olympics for too long at the same time. I thought John did very well. I was at first amused, because…well. We know how funny John can be. But, I was pleasantly surprised. He was quite engaging and interesting, as well as prepared & knowledgable. And, I loved hearing his stories. He doesn’t seem intimidated by TV. I’m thinking he’d be a terrific eventual “replacement” for Skip, although no one will ever really replace Skip — just fill the vacancy his death created. I’d just like to see Smoltzie continue pitching (IF he still can) first.

By CharlieAlphaBravo

August 18, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

Oh, and to rehash an old subject I didn’t take part in, I noticed a few great songwriters that I didn’t see anyone mention…. David Bowie, Bob Marley, David Byrne, Sam Cooke, JJ Cale, Paul McCartney, Jim Morrison, and Les Claypool. I know we’re not discussing that anymore, but I felt like their names should be mentioned… You know, for posterity’s sake.

By Cecil34

August 18, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this

Pee-Paddy

I didn’t really want to wait at all, but they went and got Kotchman, and the Braves are willing to risk injury, and I don’t think there is a catcher in the system that can hit remotely like Mac, so….

We are on the same page but it is not going to go my (our) way right now.

I feel your pain….

By Cecil34

August 18, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this

Chop x 2

I agree with you - Mac should AT LEAST be allowed to play at first - every so often.

What could it hurt?

He would otherwise be on the bench.

By BL

August 18, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this

This may have been answered already but why the weird start time today?

By Coach ( Skip will be missed)

August 18, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this

Exactly, Carroll. Brian McCann ain’t broke.

As far as Terry Pendleton goes. The man came up under the tutelage of Whitey Herzog. Moe than a few people are going to be shocked at how improved this team will be when Cox retires and Pendleton takes over.

By robert

August 18, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this

I agree that Francoeur is a great guy. He is a great team guy and someone that you love to be around. Jeff is a loosy goosy guy. His swing is the same as his personality. Why can’t you just hit the dang ball? Why does it have to be such a mind thing? Talent and luck are needed to play baseball. Vlad Guerrero is the same way. Let the kid play the way he knows how, and leave him alone.

By DAP

August 18, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this

BL why the weird start time today?

i think that its because there is an agreement that on getaway day, the hosting team has to have a day game, so that the traveling team can have enough time to get where they are going. but, day games dont draw like night games, especially when school has started back. 4:30 is the latest start time that can still be considered a day game, so thats what time braves officials wanted the game to start.

im pretty sure thats right, anyways.

By BravesFanInRockies

August 18, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this

Coach,

If’ I’m not mistaken, you’ve complained about the Braves’ inability to move runners over in bunting situations. And the hitting coach who teaches bunting is … ?

By Roman Gal

August 18, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this

I should also add (to the Hanson comment i made) that I think Kris Medlen could get a shot in spring training. DOB

I talked to the M-Braves announcer a week or so ago and asked him who (besides Hanson and Schafer) to keep an eye on in Spring Training and the first name he mentioned was Medlen. He called him a good reliever, but a great starter.

He also talked about how good of a kid Jordan Schafer is, and how hard he works every day. And that he’s hit into some really bad luck this year. Luckily now, though, the hits are starting to fall for him.

By McFann Ô

August 18, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

Ms. Rogers—

So true…

Chop Chop—

I know what you’re saying. Yes, it would be nice to have his bat in the lineup for ten extra games. OK! But McCann is not an infielder!

Maybe they should put him at first for a game, then we’ll get some sort of an idea, but I don’t think it’s the right idea at this time.

Cecil Mac is the man, and the Man hits. Me thinks perhaps he should have been on the SI cover in ‘05.

No! You know what SI does…

Well, superstitions are bunk, but I’m still glad they didn’t do that to Mac.

By Chop Chop

August 18, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this

CharlieAlphaBravo,

I don’t think anybody mentioned Frank Zappa. He was a great songwriter.

(I’m only sorta kidding.)

Cecil34,

Your check is in the mail.

By Efrim

August 18, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this

Roman Gal

Did the announcer mention his height prohibiting him as a starter in the bigs? I know he has been rather successful at Mississippi, but he may be a bit short for starters innings in the bigs.

By Interested Observer

August 18, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this

Jim Lefevre, who is managing the Chinese Olympic team, just got ejected for a heated argument in the game against the U.S. team. The funny part, besides the fact I had no idea that Jim Lefevre was Chinese, was watching the Chinese intepreter who came out with Lefevre to “intepret” the tirade..although I don’t think a translation was necessary.

By Carroll Rogers

August 18, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this

hey, i just turned in a new blog, so y’all would have something new to chew on during the game. it should be posted very soon.

By Shaun

August 18, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this

So I guess every front-line starter for all 30 ML teams was drafted in the top 10 draft picks.

No, but you aren’t likely to find a guy like Lincecum—that can reach the majors at 23 and become an ace at 24 without much minor league seasoning—without a high pick in the draft.

By Chop Chop

August 18, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this

Oh, silly BravesFanInRockies!

Don’t you see that Terry Pendleton, who cut his teeth playing for Whitey Herzog, has been stifled by our illustrious manager? Pendleton tries to get everyone to bunt during batting practice, but Bobby yells at him to stop, and then, in a voice as powerful as Mighty Zeus, boldly proclaims that “WE DON’T NEED ANY OF THAT SMALL BALL STUFF HERE!”

He goes on to exclaim that “THERE WILL BE NO ROLLING THE HOLE OR EMPLOYING THE HIT AND RUN ON MY WATCH!”

Our poor hitting coach just has to sit there and take it. I feel bad for Terry Pendleton. This team with this lineup would be a World Series contender if he were at the helm.

You can take that to the damn bank.

Boom.

By THB

August 18, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

Efrim-Medlen is a little short, but look at Johnny Cueto on the Reds. He’s also 5’10, and he throws gas. He’s got a lot of potential too. I think Medlen will be okay, size isn’t the biggest deal to me when I evaluate a pitcher. Medlen has better control and better groundout rates than Hanson and almost as good of a K rate. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Medlen be here first.

By DAP

August 18, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this

Interested Observer funny part, besides the fact I had no idea that Jim Lefevre was Chinese, was watching the Chinese intepreter who came out with Lefevre to “intepret” the tirade

i you can, PLEASE find a video of this and post a link. i would love to see that.

By McFann Ô

August 18, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this

Thanks, Ms. Rogers!

By Not a Cox Fan

August 18, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this

I was flipping through channels over the weekend and actually saw Mike Hampton pitching in a real game. This must be the final year of this contract.

By Interested Observer

August 18, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this

DAP

The game is on MSNBC right now. I’ll see if I can find a video.

Actually, the game is getting ugly. 6 US batters have been hit by pitches and they are none too pleased about it.

By Efrim

August 18, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this

THB

You are right. Cueto is very short. But I disagree, the height and frame of a pitcher does matter. It can be done without it, but I like my pitchers to be built like Josh Beckett, not like Pedro Martinez.

By Renegator

August 18, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this

Carroll or DOB

New blog for the game?

By chipdip

August 18, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this

WHATS THE POINT OF THIS STUPID gay a* BLOG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!this team f*** blows!!!!!!!!!!!and doughboys musical analysis.