Braves

By BossLady

August 28, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this

Top Of The Line

By Shaun

August 28, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this

Would be interesting if Hampton ended up on a contender. Talk about redemption. I think I’m pulling for it.

By RichmonsBrave

August 28, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this

Thoses stats are amazing. Going into the season everyone was talking about how potent our lienup could be, and to see if come apart like it has is just…. there arn’t words for it. Every Braves fan on here has their opinion on what they would do with the FA money available this year. What would you do if you were GM for a year Dave?? I have been a fan since the days of Murphy, Horner and Chamblis, and will laways be one, but I was hoping that we would not get back to where we are again. Like every ATL franchise says, “there is always next year”.

By john

August 28, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this

Setlist from My Morning Jacket last night:

1. Anytime
2. Off The Record
3. Gideon
4. Evil Urges
5. Touch Me I’m going To Scream Pt.1
6. The Way That He Sings
7. I’m Amazed
8. Thank You Too!
9. Evelyn Is Not Real
10. Two Halves
11. Sec Walkin
12. War Begun
13. Lay Low
14. Remnants
15. Aluminum Park
16. Phone Went West
17. Golden
18. Librarian
19. Dondante
20. Smokin From Shootin

21. Touch Me I’m going To Scream Pt.2

    22. Run Thru

22. Wordless Chorus

23. Highly Suspicious
24. Cobra
25. The Bear
26. Magheetah
27. One Big Holiday

By ugaman

August 28, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the new blog Dave. I haven’t posted in a while and even though I am an avid Braves fan, it has been depressing to watch over the past four to six weeks.

Have you noticed any difference in Bobby Cox over this period as far as his returning next season? You can tell this season has taken its toll on him when he gives an interview and it just makes me wonder if he’s wavering on his decision to come back next year. Does he really want to be part of the rebuilding process, or does he really think they will compete next year. I just don’t see him having the patience to go through another rebuild ala the late ‘80’s early ‘90’s.

By Jeff321

August 28, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this

I have been somewhat surprised with Hampton since his return. See, I figured he would just go back on the DL after flossing his teeth. But, he sure set me straight, eh.

I think the Dodgers need Hampton or one of the other contending teams.. And we need young studs!

Btw, Matt Harrison is 6-3 and got the win last night.

By Latin From Manhatten

August 28, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this

Would all the Brave fans who thought they were gonna be better than the Mets please stand up.

By Cecil34

August 28, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this

DOB

any predictions/conclusions about how many wins the division winner is going to be close to now?

I know that speculation earlier in the year was 88-90 wins….

By Shaun

August 28, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this

It will be interesting to see if the Braves set their sites on Dunn or Burrell as their top priority to give a big boost in the power department.

By McFann :Ô:

August 28, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the new blog, Chief!

Funny you should pick that song—never heard it, but we just found a 3-foot king snake in our front yard.

Feel kinda bad, though…we followed him around and uh…accidently scared him down a chipmunk hole…

By McFann :Ô:

August 28, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this

Latin From Manhatten—

Alright…

By Original Jon

August 28, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB Got a question about the options, I know how they work for the most part, like adding to them to the 40 man starts the options clock, but, something I am curious about is this……Lets say a minor leaguer is added to the 40 man and brought up and his options clock is started, then he is sent down and doesnt see the majors for another 3 years because maybe he didnt meet expectations, does he then still have 2 more options left, even though his options clock started 3 years prior.

Guess basically I am asking this, would a player still have options remaining if he is brought up and sent down and maybe wont be brought up for years later?

If thats confusing, I apologize, I think I might have confused myself, lol.

By jed

August 28, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this

if yall had a choice between seeing DBT or My morning jacket, what would you pick and why? this is not a random question; i gotta choose…

By chris

August 28, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Tell me what you think of this for 2009:

Rotation: Free-agent, JJ, Campillo, Glavine, and competition from Reyes, Morton, James, and LeRew.

Lineup: Schaeffer, Escobar, Chipper, free agent lf, McCAnn, Kotchman, French, Johnson or Prado

Bench: Infante, Sammons, Prado or Johnson, Lillbridge, competition from B.Jones, Anderson, and Blanco

Bullpen: Gonzalez, Moylan, Soriano, Ohman or other lefty, Boyer, Bennett, and Acosta.

DL/ 2nd half reinforcement: Smoltz and Hudson

Minor league help: James, LeRew, Redmond, Medlen, Hanson, Stockman, Rideway, Ring, other outfielders listed above who don’t make the team.

Goodbye to: Diaz, Gotay, Norton, Carlye (those these last two have done their jobs fairly well this year)

Is it affordable? Could it compete for a Wild Card? Am I missing someone? Who is out of options next year?

Chris from MD

By BostonBravesGirl

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

Kotsay has been very well received here in Boston - here’s a http://tinyurl.com/6qndll Nice guy; too bad Atlanta couldn’t keep him. I actually saw Sumoza play at Lowell a few weeks ago, but I can’t say I remember anything about him - the Lowell team lost.

The Sox are sweeping the Yanks as I write this; at least one of my teams is having a decent year!

By Metros

August 28, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this

Last year the Mets had a 7 game lead on 9/12 and went 5-12 to close out the season and went home crying to watch the postseason on TV.

This year they will not have the luxury of such a big lead, but doubtless will fold to the Phillies yet again and both NY teams will miss the playoffs.

By Thrillhouse44

August 28, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this

Hampton says he’s open to coming back to the Braves next year, but is he open to coming back at a discount?

By Spider29

August 28, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this

I know many of the denizens will be saying “good riddance” if the Braves trade Mike Hampton. But there are those among them who also remember how well he pitched for the team for awhile. The start last night was very good. It looks like he is getting back on track and it would be nice if we had at least one veteran pitcher for the rest of the season. However, if the Braves can get a good prospect for Hampton I say they should go ahead and make the trade. I would wish Mike good luck. Then I would turn my attention to finishing this season on as strong a note as possible. Get ready for the off-season activity and look forward to much better (and healthier) 2009. Maybe Dessens can contribute positively for 4 weeks. DOB is right about it not being a move for the future after September. DOB, how is Kotchman’s mother? Is there any indication of when he will be back with the team?

By southga brave

August 28, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this

Any indication on the line-up tonight? Will Anderson step in for Kotsay or does he just get to ride the pine with that speed? I liked the comments about why he was sent down earlier this year. Too many guys like Blanco and Kotsay. OK then let not have to many guys hitting 300 with some sped and defense. I know he has only gap power. Tell me what good all that home run power was doing them? They had at that time, Chipper, Tex, McCann and Francoir I guess having another base runner was too much to have on the team. One with speed was unthinkable because we could always wait on that 3-run shot! Bobby has no idea how to play any other way. Then again Francoir has a lot of hrs and that great average, mmmmmmm. Something wrong with this picture? I am not here to condemn Jeff just the logic behind that move. Yes I know they are all three lefties, so was Brandon Jones when he was called up. I guess we didn’t have enough 3-run homer innings! Let me see you can’t have anything but solo homers if no one gets on. For gods sake lets not pressure the defense with a stolen base or a hit and run. There can be power outages but speed is always there. All I know is that seemed to be a “stupid” move at the time and now. Send down a guy hitting 300 and keep the likes of Gotay and Norton. Wait Norton and Gotay were both hitting around 220 but they have a little power. Why did we need Norton in left field then? Oh yea his power and defense. Wait at 220 there wasn’t many hr’s. and defense? Give us a break! The problem with this team is upper managements philosophy, 3-run homer at all cost. Where has that gotten us? READ BETWEEN THE LINES HERE. I could go on and on to explain it.

By Shaun

August 28, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this

Thrillhouse44, should be interesting. I don’t know how much he’ll get on the open market. So he may be willing to sign for whatever the Braves may offer, that is if they are interested.

By 22oz

August 28, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this

To answer DonC’s question on the previous blog about what it means for a fan to “give up on the season”. For me personally, it means not stopping what you’re doing outside to go inside and watch the game. Not rushing home to see the game. Other options than watching the game seem more attractive now. If something else on tv is on that you like, you choose it over the game. Instead of being outraged when something bad happens, you just shake your head and maybe even laugh, because you expect it. I still talk about the Braves with my dad, and still read about the Braves. I haven’t stopped going to games, mainly because i bought my tickets back in February. The bad thing about that is, games in August and September that you picked out in February to go to because you thought they would be big games, well, aren’t big games. I still have tickets to the next home series against the Mets, which i’m not too excited about. Thats my definition-a decrease in passion-which, ironically,is exactly how the team is playing.

By McF@#$!

August 28, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this

I hope @#$! Kotsay has a @#$! month for the @#$! Red Sox (even though I can’t @#$!stand that @#$! team.)

I especially liked when ol Kots told the @#$! umpire to @#$! a @#$!

OK … Maybe today i@#$! McCann will hit a @#$! homerun.

Better still, it would be @#$! cool if the next time @#$! Francoeur hits into a @#$! double play then @#$! Bobby Cox says @#$! @#$! a @#$! @#$! to no one in particular but then @#$! McCann tells Cox to @#$! @#$! a @#$! @#$! and then destroys the @#$! water cooler.

By fieldofdreams

August 28, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

The early ‘70’s A’s used great pitching, stellar defense, and timely hitting to win three consecutive WS. Let’s use them as a model to rebuild the new wave Braves. Pitching covers a multitude of sins, but right now only Jurrgens seems tailored to our needs. Other than the Glavine debacle, I give kudos to Wren, who seems to understand the urgency of freeing payroll, and getting young.

By McFann :Ô:

August 28, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

Uh…please delete that 3:31…

Thanks…

By Chippendale Dancer

August 28, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this

I think the Dodgers need Hampton or one of the other contending teams.. And we need young studs!

Yes. Most of the truly hot young studs live in Hollywood.

That’s where Patrick Swayze was discovered!

By The Alarm

August 28, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this

We had no idea we were in that song.

By ncscoots

August 28, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this

I could go on and on to explain it.

Too late. You already did.

Go on and on, that is. On the ‘splaining, not so much, Lucy.

By BostonBravesGirl

August 28, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this

McF@#$!, you go girl!

By Braint

August 28, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this

I think the Braves should sign Hampton if he’s affordable. Why not?

I say we skip JJJ for a start (rest)and allow Dessens to take the mound. See what he can do. What do we have to lose?

We seriously need to consider giving Boyer & Ohman some rest if they might be on our staff next year.

By TommyP

August 28, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

I love it when I inspire the subject of a new blog. (heh heh)

DOB: Let me get this straight. Back at the trade deadline when I was pining for some of the youth to be called up (like Anderson, B.Jones, and a couple others I mentioned), you lambasted me for wanting the Braves to bring up tons of minor leaguers (I only suggested a few) and said that there are season ticketholders that they have to keep in mind.

With that said, what’s the attendance been since that point?

So is Dessens the type of player that season ticketholders deserve? Or Tavarez? Or Gotay?

Our 40 man is littered with journeymen so I don’t buy this “we’d risk losing guys on our 40-man roster” argument. At all.

Regarding options….we’ll now START next season with NO IDEA how several of our prospects that are close to being ready match up against major league pitching. And when we do give them a chance, it’ll be at a time (probably) when we’re in the race. At least now is a time where we have nothing to lose.

As far as saving money down the road on contracts, etc. We don’t have 1 surefire prospect that we can treat in that manner. Maybe Heyward but that’s it.

We don’t need to be worrying about what we’ll pay prospect A in 5 years if we are not even sure he’ll be a solid major league ballplayer.

Is Medlen the next Smoltz or James? Or Odalis? Or Davies? Sure glad we didn’t start those arbitration years with Kyle Davies early….. What would we have done??????

By Latin From Manhatten

August 28, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this

Metros, I see you’re good at stats and recalling the past. Can you help me out and tell me where the Braves finished? Was it first? second?

By True Braves Fan

August 28, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this

              AGE   W   L   ERA

Dessens 37 48 61 4.50 Redman 34 68 85 4,85

Redman was our last “cheap innings eater.”

After we have invested millions in Hampton (either the Braves or insurance) why give him away?

If he is worth something to a competitor why not keep him and let him come to spring training next year to see what he can do? He should be willing to work for the Braves for peanuts after all they have paid him.

By Einstein

August 28, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

What would Chipper’s and Frenchy’s batting average be if they could hit against Braves’ pitching like the rest of the league? Also, is it possible for Blaine Boyer to pitch a complete inning without giving up a home run…or even a run? Insanity is doing the same thing over and over, and expecting different results. Thanks, Your friendly neighborhood genius.

By wg

August 28, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this

I’m not so sure you give up Hampton to a contender for another mid-level minor leaguer. I am not opposed to getting rid of him per se but I am also (who knows why?) thinking he might take an incentive laden contract to pay back some of what he owes the Braves for putting up with this for so long. The same with Glavine. Bring them both to spring training and if they can’t cut it, let them go. We do need arms. Talking about Power Outages, a lot of people are pushing to get rid of KJ but even though Prado may give you a better average, he won’t hit more than 2 or 3 homers in a year. And McCann needs to get hot for a while so Chipper can get some pitches. Since Tex was shipped out and McCann went into a little funk, Chipper is getting nothing to hit and often is hitting with the bases empty. It would be nice to see Escobar take a 3 & 1 pitch and work the count and to at least give Jones a chance to get a pitch.

By Ho Hum

August 28, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this

Kind of a disappointing set list from the Jacket, leaning way too heavy on the new stuff. I know superfans will say otherwise, but the new album is just flat-out weak in my opinion. I actually have no problem with the two faux-Prince songs, except that Highly Suspicious has cringe-inducing lyrics. It’s the completely forgetable soft rock bs that drags down the album.

I’d still tell anyone, go see the Jacket, one of the best live acts going. But I think I can wait for the next tour…

By OrlandoFan

August 28, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this

Didn’t know if anyone saw that a Braves’ minor-league pitcher won league honors:

http://www.clarionledger.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080828/SPORTS09/80828010/1287/SPORTS

By Jamie in Richmond

August 28, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this

TommyP Totally agree with your 4pm post…

By Dr. Scholl

August 28, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

Redman was our last “cheap innings eater.”

No. He stunk so badly that his function was “cheap odor eater”.

By McFann :Ô:

August 28, 2008 4:27 PM | Link to this

BostonBravesGirl—

Uh…What makes you think that disgusting post was written by a girl? ‘Cause if you think it was me, well, sorry, but you’re way off.

By flange1

August 28, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this

Some of you folks just don’t understand!

Mike Hampton is in the last year of his contract. His option has been declined and he will be a free agent at the end of the year.

If he is not a type A or B free agent and the Braves choose NOT to offer him arbitration (they will not offer arbitration) he will be free to sign with any team.

The Braves will get nothing in return.

The Braves could choose to try to resign him or not.

If they trade him before the trade deadline, they could get SOMETHING for him.

If they wanted to they could still try to sign him in the off season as a free agent. (same with Kotsay)

So the real question is do you want Hampton to pitch his next scheduled 3-5 starts for the Braves and pay him somewhere in the neighborhood of $1 million or trade him for prospects and a cash savings…

All of the garbage about “bring him to spring training” or “sign him for the minimum because he owes us” is just that - GARBAGE.

If the Braves want Hampton back , they can try to sign him as a free agent.

If we can him at a decent price, I say sign him!

By Elmer Dessens is a dumpster of debris

August 28, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

Elmer Dessens is now arriving at the Ted. The truck is backing up. Here he comes…

Elmer Dessens is a dumpster of debris.

or perhaps a bin of bric-a-brac.

By McFann :Ô:

August 28, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

Why is it that FoxSports.com never has a photo of the Braves’ pitcher? It’s very strange…

WG And McCann needs to get hot for a while

I’m for that!! That sounds like a lot of fun, actually.

By Brian

August 28, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this

I kinda figured this would happen with Hampton, Glavine and Smoltz. If anyone holds the Braves “hostage” this offseason, let it be Smoltz. Glavine is not worth it performance wise and Hampton,if he isn’t traded, better not ask for anymore than 3 mil a year. HELL NO!!! Trade for an ace and get Lowe. Can you imagine a rotation of Peavy/Halladay,Smoltz,Lowe,Jurrjens,Reyes. We’d have the Muts and Phils shakin’.

By ncscoots

August 28, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this

Regarding options….we’ll now START next season with NO IDEA how several of our prospects that are close to being ready match up against major league pitching.

Actually, that would be just you with no idea. I’d wager that the organization has a very good idea of who is close to ready and who isn’t. Wren and his braintrust receive daily reports on the state of the minor leagues, whereas, you, do not.

I’m not trying to be snarky about it, but just because you personally lack information on prospects in the pipeline does not mean the powers that matter are so ill-informed.

By TennesseePaul

August 28, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this

Payne: Dunn or Burrell? That’s the only choice? I could have sworn trades could be made in the offseason. Wren so far has been a better trader than signer. And he seems to like guys that don’t strikeout much…

By Jesse

August 28, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this

When the Braves are defeated, you get an expletive deleted.

To enhance their attack, they must swear like Mac.

They may have lost Tom, but they still have the F-bomb.

By BL

August 28, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this

I would have never believed in April that we would be having a discussion about trying to sign Hampton in the off-season. Guess that is just how bad it has gotten.

By Mac's F-bomb

August 28, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this

Wow, “and” symbols, dollar signs, number signs, and exclamation points are even offensive to some of you people (McFann)???

Chill the f* out! Seriously.

By Couch Tater

August 28, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this

DOB Have you seen Ray with Jerry Jeff Walker on You Tube? Funny.

By Anders

August 28, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this

DOB

With four games left in August, the Braves have hit just eight home runs for the month. Eight!

Hey look at the bright side. That’s one more than Carlos Delgado has hit in August. Of course there’s 3 games left in August for Carlos so there’s a chance he’ll pass the Braves.

By Jo Jo Reyes is a large vat of goo

August 28, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this

Can you imagine a rotation of Peavy/Halladay,Smoltz,Lowe,Jurrjens,Reyes. We’d have the Muts and Phils shakin’.

Yeah. When Reyes pitches the Muts and Phils will be shakin’ - with laughter.

And the goo will be jigglin’.

By McFann :Ô:

August 28, 2008 5:04 PM | Link to this

Lineup!!

Anderson’s hitting leadoff!

Oops…sorry to spoil the surprise.

By Sweeney Todd

August 28, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this

Man. Is this blog cutting edge or what?

By TommyP

August 28, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this

NCScoots: “Snarky?” Interesting choice there.

I get it. So the Braves KNOW how these prospects will fare when they get to the majors and compete on the ultimate level? Based on what?

Fact is that they don’t know. Nobody knows. You have to be thrown into the fire to see how you react.

But you would think that this would be the time to get that idea, to see some facts…..not next, say, May or June when we’re actually in a race.

By Ewok

August 28, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this

I wish the Braves would have kept Tex and traded Chipper!

By BamaBravesFan

August 28, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

College Football starts tonight people!

By BL

August 28, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this

Anders You guys need to get back to blowing leads and __. Can’t wait to watch year 2 of the Annual chokefest in Flushing.

By ernesto

August 28, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this

Sell! Sell! Sell!

It’s the Braves Everything Must Go Sale!

Buy A Hampton, Get A Corky Miller half price!!!!

Always wanted a free swinging RF with a canon arm?

Had your eye on an Elmer Dessens but didn’t think you could afford the high monthly ERA?

Is there a gaping hole at 2B for your team? Want to make it gaping-er?

Don’t forget to ask about our grab bag of journeymen surprise bag!

We’ll have Ruben Gotay on your team in under a half hour or he’s free!

Call Now! GMs are standing by.

By N NIne

August 28, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this

EWOK, not gonna happen. Did you forget TEX’S crazy agent? Chipper Jones is a Braves icon. His statue will be Posted in front TED in the near future. Hey EWOK, send me your address and ill send you a chipper bobble-head! Thx for playing.

By McFann :Ô:

August 28, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this

BBF College Football starts tonight people!

GO TECH!!!

By Braveheart

August 28, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this

Hey look at the bright side. That’s one more than Carlos Delgado has hit in August. Of course there’s 3 games left in August for Carlos so there’s a chance he’ll pass the Braves.

Anders, I don’t give two sh!ts how many homers Carlos Delgado has this month. I’m too excited about how many TDs Julio Jones is gonna score against Clemson at the Dome on Saturday nigt. Roll Tide! Look out Wayne, Salty and Scoots. Julio’s good for about 3 TDs Saturday night.

By BostonBravesGirl

August 28, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this

McFann, sorry, my @#*! mistake.

By McFann :Ô:

August 28, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this

Ernesto Don’t forget to ask about our grab bag of journeymen surprise bag!

Haha!!

By TommyP

August 28, 2008 5:34 PM | Link to this

Go Dawgs! :)

By Original Jon

August 28, 2008 5:38 PM | Link to this

TommyP Seriously dude? You are still on that kick about bringing up prospects? Give it a rest would you, you obviously dont get it and never will, like DOB said. So please, stop already. It is not going to happen, and I am so glad you are not the GM, god, what would our team look like now, and how about 3 years down the road, our farm system wouldnt be for nothing if you were in charge.

By Jamie in Richmond

August 28, 2008 5:40 PM | Link to this

Way to keep it classy, Brian…

Don’t give up on Reyes yet….

By McFann :Ô:

August 28, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this

TommyP—

They’re not playin’ tonight are they? : P

BostonBravesGirl—

OK, you’re forgiven.

But I think we cann drop the whole “shapes” thing—hasn’t it gotten a bit out of hand?

OK, I’m done with that subject.

By McFann :Ô:

August 28, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this

Anders Of course there’s 3 games left in August for Carlos so there’s a chance he’ll pass the Braves.

There’s four games left for the Braves…That gives them more time to make that margin wider.

Haha! That almost wasn’t a joke…

By Anders

August 28, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this

Brian

Can you imagine a rotation of Peavy/Halladay,Smoltz,Lowe,Jurrjens,Reyes. We’d have the Muts and Phils shakin’.

The key word in that sentence is imagine, because that’s all it will ever be.

BTW- Did you catch last night’s Mets/Phils game? Sorry if I missed your shout out to me after it.

By TommyP

August 28, 2008 5:51 PM | Link to this

Original Jon: We agree to disagree. Nothing more to say than that.

Except you trying to make yourself look “smarter” by ridiculing others.

Yeah, that works.

McFann: A “Go Dawgs” is ALWAYS appropriate. :)

By Brian

August 28, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this

Anders- You seem to me like you’re one of those fat,obnoxious, know-it-all yankees!! BOY PLEASE! I wouldn’t brag too much cause when your team blows it again, we’ll be setting up for next year to KICK YOUR ASSES AGAIN!! GET READY FOR THE BUMPY RIDE, SON!!

By David O'Brien

August 28, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this

Jed, you can’t go wrong choosing between DBT and MMJ, but I think the presence of Hold Steady opening for the Truckers swings it slightly in that direction (or I’m just saying that because I’ve got tix to the Nov. 1 show, and didn’t get to go to MMJ last night)….

Original Jon, once a player is added to the 40-man roster, provided he stays on that roster, he uses an option each year when he’s sent to the minors at some point in spring training. So even if he never plays in the majors for the next couple of years he’d use two options.

And someone asked about Thorman yesterday. If he were added to the roster in September, he’d have to be added to 40-man, obviously. And since he’s out of options, he’d be exposed to waivers before he could be sent (outrighted) to the minors again at any point by the Braves.

By 18 Wheels of Love

August 28, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this

Go Gamecocks!

Go Braves!

“We’re Oscar Mike!”

By Anders

August 28, 2008 5:59 PM | Link to this

Braveheart

I’ll bet you’ll give a least one sh!t if the Mets choke up another division though - won’t ya? Keep your eye on the ESPN crawler and we’ll see you back here if it happens.

Roll Tide!

By David O'Brien

August 28, 2008 6:00 PM | Link to this

Spider29: I wrote in Braves notebook in today’s paper (thought I mentioned it in yesterday’s blog, too) that Kotchman’s mom is still in ICU. Not good. And he was moved to the restricted (non-paid) list yesterday, because bereavement list can only go seven days, so either he had to go to restricted list or Braves had to play with 24 guys.

No indication when he’ll be back. Could be any time.

By John Lennon

August 28, 2008 6:00 PM | Link to this

Imagine a rotation of Superman, Hercules, Abraham Lincoln, Genghis Khan, and King Kong.

It’s easy if you try.

By David O'Brien

August 28, 2008 6:04 PM | Link to this

By the way, you heard it HERE FIRST: Soriano had elbow surgery today with Dr. Andrews. Braves haven’t said anything about it yet, but should announce it soon.

He had nerve-transposition surgery, and they were going to fix anything else that needed it while they were in there. Barring something unforseen in the surgery, Wren told me they expected he would be recovered for spring training.

They were still waiting for the report from Andrews while ago.

By McFann :Ô:

August 28, 2008 6:04 PM | Link to this

TommyP—

Haha…No no no…: )

By Anders

August 28, 2008 6:05 PM | Link to this

Brian

I’m noticing a pattern. Met’s lose = Brian happy. Mets win = Brian mad.

As for next years a$$ kicking by the Braves, well let’s just say I’m not laying awake nights worrying about that.

By Anders

August 28, 2008 6:11 PM | Link to this

DOB

By the way, you heard it HERE FIRST: Soriano had elbow surgery today with Dr. Andrews. Braves haven’t said anything about it yet, but should announce it soon.

By hearing it here first I assume you mean that he had the surgery, not that he needed it. I seem to have heard some suspicions about his elbow waaaayyyy back in February. Can’t remember who said it being that it was sooo long ago. It’ll come to me, just give me a minute.

By Brian

August 28, 2008 6:16 PM | Link to this

DOB- Gotta ask you this. Is Bobby a nerve wracking interview? Seems like if asked the wrong question he’d blow up. Other times he seems pretty easy, though. It’s hard to know Wren tendencies but do you think he will trade for an ace or settle for FA pitchers? Thanks

By Ander's Mom

August 28, 2008 6:17 PM | Link to this

Yes. My boy has insomnia.

He lays awake at night worrying. He was mugged three times last week. They took his comic books and his allowance. Now he’s afraid to go outside.

By Latin From Manhatten

August 28, 2008 6:17 PM | Link to this

Brien, since you know so much about Anders even though you never met him can you take a moment to tell me how many games the Braves are out of first…..Thanks bubba.

By Latin From Manhatten

August 28, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this

Brian, all those imagine scenario’s are the same pipe dreams many Brave fans have been putting out for years now. So snap yourself out of it and get back to the farm to milk those cows bubba.

By bravelee

August 28, 2008 6:23 PM | Link to this

How can the Braves get away with dumping millions of dollars off the payroll this year, and yet they still charge full price for tickets?? And how do those fans in the Suntrust seats feels with those prices for this drek? Think they would have paid it to see Elmer and company if they had known? A team giving up is one thing, but lower the price for fans—just more corporate greed by Liberty, Wren and the gang trying to make budgets and bonuses. Forget us fans. Oh, wait—they already have…

By GeoWiki

August 28, 2008 6:26 PM | Link to this

Latin From Manhatten

Manhatten? Is that in New Jersey? It’s not near Manhattan is it? That would be weird.

By David O'Brien

August 28, 2008 6:28 PM | Link to this

Josh Anderson in center and leading off tonight, Prado hitting second and playing first.

1. Anderson, 2. Prado, 3. Chipper, 4. McCann, 5. Escobar, 6. Johnson, 7. Francoeur, 8. B. Jones (LF), 9. Morton….

Nerve-transposition surgery, Big A. Not Tommy John. Stroke your ego elsewhere; nobody here cares to help you with that need.

By Brian

August 28, 2008 6:30 PM | Link to this

Anders- Actually, you’re right. I’m not gonna lie about it. Can’t stand those rude, ignorant fans, Jose Reyes bad attitude, and to be honest with you Manuel has that cocky, know-it-all attitude that seems to be an epidemic around there. Phillies aren’t far behind though. I might even despise them more if you can beleive it. No doubt, it’s gonna be fun next year.

By David O'Brien

August 28, 2008 6:34 PM | Link to this

Brian, I just talked to Wren about that, the pursuit of pitchers. Said it’s just too early to know, because they don’t know who all will be available, and how the free-agent market will develop (money-wise) this winter, and whether it’ll be slow to develop. He said they might not make a lot of moves until December or January, depending on how things develop.

He also said it was too early to know about Glavine and Smoltz and what role they might play, when they might be back, if they’ll be back, etc.

By Tito Puente

August 28, 2008 6:34 PM | Link to this

Latin from Manhatten is actually Latina from Queens.

By I Remember Thor!

August 28, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this

DOB said:

And someone asked about Thorman yesterday. If he were added to the roster in September, he’d have to be added to 40-man, obviously. And since he’s out of options, he’d be exposed to waivers before he could be sent (outrighted) to the minors again at any point by the Braves.

Soooooo whats your point?

By Chop Chop

August 28, 2008 6:40 PM | Link to this

DOB,

You stroke the man’s ego whenever you respond.

By David O'Brien

August 28, 2008 6:49 PM | Link to this

The point? I was answering a direction question. Guy wanted to know if Thorman, who’s out of options, was brought up in September, if he’d have to go through waivers again if he was sent down in spring training.

And the answer is, yes. That’s the point.

By David O'Brien

August 28, 2008 6:51 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop, then if that’s all it takes, glad to be of service. Long as it doesn’t take more than 7-8 seconds of typing for me to help out.

By Coach ( Skip will be missed)

August 28, 2008 7:01 PM | Link to this

I don’t give one hoot about Elmer Dessens. I do give a damn about the fact that the bullpen is worn down to nothing due to the mismanagement of Bobby Cox.

2006-2007 and 2008, all three years the bullpen has or will have topped 500 innings after Leo Mazzone left for Baltimore. Coincidence? I think not.

Joey Devine for Mark Kotsay = Luis Somoza. Somewhere, Billy Beane is laughing.

Josh Anderson leading off and in CF? Say it ain’t so Joe! I’m gonna faint.

By Philliesuk

August 28, 2008 7:03 PM | Link to this

It is highly unlikely the Braves will contend in 2009. We need to set our sights on 2010. Next year there will still be too many unproven starters, and Hudson is out for most of the season. Translation: not much better than 2008. And don’t tell me ‘you never know.’ There are just too many breaks in the dam.

In order for the Braves to contend in 2010, they still need to sign a couple of big-name free agents. We need a #1 starter, not a #2 starter. That means Sabathia or someone equivalent. We need a consistent power hitter. That means not Adam Dunn. We need to get Kelly Johnson away from the infield. We need another dependable reliever, which will probably be the hardest task. We need to make sure Norton never starts a game in 2009, and only comes off the bench. When I saw his name in the lineup earlier this year, I knew our season was toast. Finally, we need to never have another player on the roster with numbers resembling Corky’s.

Satisfying all of the things is going to be nearly impossible, but if we do, we have a chance at 85 wins next season. Then in the next off-season, we can do some more strengthening to make us playoff contenders in 2010.

I’m patient.

By RichmondBrave

August 28, 2008 7:05 PM | Link to this

Thank God college football starts tonigt (Saturday for teams that matter)so I can have at least one winning team to pull for. GO DAWGS!

By I Remember Thor!

August 28, 2008 7:07 PM | Link to this

Easy DOB. Just an attempt at humor. Unlike some here, I’m not really concerned about offending anyone by it. I didn’t intend to offend, but not cowering because I did offend.

Now since it was missed, maybe it wasn’t that good, but the point was that Thor stunk it up last year and there doesn’t seem to be any indication that he’s ever going to develop into anything of value. As the Braves sometimes do, they OVER VALUE some of their talent and under value others. The reports were that the team was petrified they were going to lose Thor. I suppose that was displayed when Thor could have been claimed last year and EVERY major league team passed.

By Steve from OH

August 28, 2008 7:12 PM | Link to this

2006-2007 and 2008, all three years the bullpen has or will have topped 500 innings after Leo Mazzone left for Baltimore. Coincidence? I think not.

Of course. This is all Bobby’s fault. It has nothing to do with the fact that we’ve had guys like Chuck James, Mark Redman, Jason Shiell, Lance Cormier, Kyle Davies, and your boy Jeff Bennett starting games, does it? Nah, Bobby’s supposed to magically conjure five 200-plus inning starters, of course. How could we hire a manager that knows no magic? How foolish of us.

By TennesseePaul

August 28, 2008 7:14 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the news on Soriano DOB. Appreciate it. On the concert front I’m on the list for the Watson Twins tonight. They’re playing with Nada Surf. Might head out to that one. Those chicks can sing.

By David O'Brien

August 28, 2008 7:16 PM | Link to this

Yes, Thor’s stock is not exactly soaring. You are correct. Scouts say he’s got the same swing now that he had when he left, and that swing won’t work up here (even at Triple-A, he hit only .252 with 19 homers, 83 strikeouts and a .284 OBP in 369 at-bats.

By semiballcoach

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

dob—if you go to etree.org you might be able download mmj show from last night..the last one on there right now is 8/24

By David O'Brien

August 28, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this

Braves can open a couple of spots on 40-man if they want to call up anyone who’s not on it, by simply transferring Soriano to 60-day DL and also Diaz (since he’s already been out 60 days anyway).

By Tomas

August 28, 2008 7:27 PM | Link to this

I like todays lineup. Prado seems to me as a great number two hitter, with his opposite field hits. But he just hit into a dp as write this in a 3-0 count. I still don’t see Bobby stealing bases, that would be my biggest critic against them. I bet the Braves are in the top 5 in the nl in DP’s. Anderson who is the fastest guy in the team got on base, and he didn’t use it. The same with Blanco yesterday when he got on twice leading off, with Lo duca behind the dish. Bobby please try to be more aggresive.

By McFann :Ô:

August 28, 2008 7:27 PM | Link to this

Oh my gosh…

Check it out, folks! BMac is on base!

You heard it here first!

By Goodoleboy58

August 28, 2008 7:31 PM | Link to this

Does anyone else hate seeing our losses creep up to 81.. the point of no return?

By David O'Brien

August 28, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul, no doubt about Watson Twins. Very good album they just released a couple months back. I really like it.

By LedZep

August 28, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this

It’s back to the 80’s for the Braves and their fans. Back then you didn’t have the blog. At least now you can comfort yourselves in this time of misery.

By Tomas

August 28, 2008 7:34 PM | Link to this

Kelly just missed it. Good to see he was being agressive, after knowing Sanchez need to get ahead in the count. That DP hurts.

By Goodoleboy58

August 28, 2008 7:34 PM | Link to this

I like seeing Escobar batting 5th… Hopefully he’ll take advantage

By Goodoleboy58

August 28, 2008 7:40 PM | Link to this

Best inning of the year for Morton?

By David O'Brien

August 28, 2008 7:43 PM | Link to this

Kelly hits a bases-loaded fly to the track and Morton strikes out the side in the second … Braves might just be ready to win a series. We’ll see….

By Tomas

August 28, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this

DOB,

What is the deal with Diaz. Is he getting close, or did he had a setback. Morton has looked great, and Sanchez has looked lucky, and has thrown a lot of pitches. Let’s see if they can take advantage of it.

By Goodoleboy58

August 28, 2008 7:47 PM | Link to this

woooooo Josh Anderson keep it up buddy… All he does is hit

By David O'Brien

August 28, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this

It’s fun watching Josh A. go from first to third. Dude can flat-out fly. Effortless stride.

Like this potential spark from Anderson and Prado at the top.

By Goodoleboy58

August 28, 2008 7:50 PM | Link to this

Nice AB’s by BJ, JA, and Prado

By braves70

August 28, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this

Brandon Jones, Anderson, and Prado just maufactured a two out run which is something our veterans have failed at all year long. Let the children play!

By bruce

August 28, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this

charlie is looking good….

By JMP

August 28, 2008 7:55 PM | Link to this

DOB, thanks for the explanation. Tonight looks like fun. Dont you think this is where BC is at his best.

By Embizzle

August 28, 2008 7:56 PM | Link to this

DOB, have you heard the new album from a fella named Anthony Green. It’s called “Avalon” you should check it out. Especailly the track called “Dear Child”.

By McFann :Ô:

August 28, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this

TOUCHDOWN!!

By Graham

August 28, 2008 7:58 PM | Link to this

DOB

Is it possible that the Braves might try to be more aggressive on the base paths tonight with Anderson’s speed?

I saw MMJ at the Orange Peel in Asheville, NC back in ‘07. Great show, but not really my style. Would it be worth my while to pick up the new CD?

By Brian

August 28, 2008 8:00 PM | Link to this

I’m callin’ it- Morton throws a no-hitter

By McFann :Ô:

August 28, 2008 8:00 PM | Link to this

Fiddlesticks…

By MGL

August 28, 2008 8:04 PM | Link to this

McFann - You had better get that Turtle out and give it a kiss or hug. Your guy isn’t doing too well.

By Brian

August 28, 2008 8:07 PM | Link to this

nevermind

By David O'Brien

August 28, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this

Talk about erratic youth: Charlie’s faced the minimum 12 batters through four innings. This after going 1-6 with a 6.82 ERA in his past seven starts, including 0-3 with a 10.24 ERA and .390 opponents’ average in his past three.

By MGL

August 28, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this

So the Braves go down 1,2,3 in the 4th on 6 pitches. Sanchez has not hit his spots all night. Why not keep being patient?

By Graham

August 28, 2008 8:15 PM | Link to this

“Erratic Youth” sounds like a great album title.

By David O'Brien

August 28, 2008 8:16 PM | Link to this

Nerve transposition surgery and removed a small bone spur. Ligament was fine, Andrews said. Team just made announcement.

By hydee

August 28, 2008 8:20 PM | Link to this

Hey, Tavarez has been OK.

Yes, finally a little Tavarez love from DOB :)

By MGL

August 28, 2008 8:22 PM | Link to this

For all of you Roger M critics, Pete has been talking about how Roger has been working with Charlie all week on his delivery. Has to do with the foot placement. Looks like it is working.

By Brian

August 28, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this

Did Wren trade for Anderson? If he did that gives me even more confidence in him.

By bruce

August 28, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this

yes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By McFann ;Ô;

August 28, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this

HOME RUN!!!!!!!!! BMAC!!

.290!!

No fiddlesticks this time!

: D

By Tomas

August 28, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this

At last a homer. Way to go Mac.

By Jeff321

August 28, 2008 8:30 PM | Link to this

I like this lineup a whole lot. And of course its fun to see Josh Anderson motoring out there.

Now, imagine having Blanco & Anderson playing every game. They could really bother a pitcher out there on the bases. And it looks to me like they both know how to get on base.

Good thing that JACK by McStud went out the park! Meaning, it sure looked like it was gone from the start but I had doubts until it cleared the fence.

By MGL

August 28, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this

McFann, whatever you did with the Turtle worked, good job!!

By Tomas

August 28, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this

Morton definitely has potential, he just needs to pitch like this every time out. I hope he can stay consistant, and finish on a high note for next season.

By David O'Brien

August 28, 2008 8:35 PM | Link to this

If Anderson doesn’t steal second base, they don’t intentionally walk Chipper to get to Mac before Mac hit that three-run homer.

By JEB

August 28, 2008 8:36 PM | Link to this

Josh Anderson is playing like he belongs up here!!

My prediction for September: Josh Anderson has the highest batting avg. and has a better month than anyone in the lineup. Mark it down!! (that is if he gets to play much…)

By bruce

August 28, 2008 8:36 PM | Link to this

One free ticket in DC Friday and Saturday game right behind the Braves dugout Section 117 row g or h. Must be Braves fan and wear Braves tshirt or cap.

By David O'Brien

August 28, 2008 8:37 PM | Link to this

Graham, if they weren’t your style live, then I wouldn’t recommend the CD to you.

By McFann ;Ô;

August 28, 2008 8:37 PM | Link to this

That puts Mac’s AVG for the season at .292—his OPS is now .896.

Huh…guess my 5:48 was no joke after all…

MGL—

Hey, thanks! (I’ll stick with the hugs.) So far, so good…

Let’s just hope he keeps it up!

: D

By David O'Brien

August 28, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this

Very nice grab at the wall by B. Jones there. Don’t know if other Braves LFs this year make that.

By David O'Brien

August 28, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this

Wow. Perfect turn-and-throw on that relay from Kelly. Nice throw from Francoeur to start it. Big play, potentially, for young Charlie.

By McFann ;Ô;

August 28, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this

What a catch by B Jones!!!

What a play at the plate!!

This inning’s full of ‘em!

DOB—

So true…Thanks, Josh!!

MGL—

Oh yeah!

: D

By the BCS SUCKS!

August 28, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this

Common Braves… loose loose loose… loosing and winning these last meaningless games of the season will mean the difference bt around the 5th pick and the 15th pick… not ONLY in the first round…but the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, ect……….

And PLEASE trade Hampton, save that $$…so that managnment has NO EXCUSE not to bring back Ohman next season!
If ownership is serious about winning next year… we bring Ohman back!!

By Jeff321

August 28, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this

Call me shocked!

Frenchy/KJ/McCann got Paul Lo Duca at the plate.

Also a nice catch by Brandon Jones.

By keylargo

August 28, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this

How bout that D by Kelly tonight!!

Good play in the field and throws out a runner at home with a perfect relay.

By David O'Brien

August 28, 2008 8:46 PM | Link to this

Until Pujols passed him yesterday, Chipper for 132 days led the majors in hitting, longest such streak of the 48-year expansion era, according to Elias and Jason Stark.

By JC FROM UT

August 28, 2008 8:47 PM | Link to this

Love the lineup tonight. I do like Yunel #2 but he doesn’t really have too much speed and I think he will develope into more of a run producer. IMO Anderson shows so much more tham Blanco although Blanco has done a good job he just sees a little too non-chalant for me. Like Joe Simpson pointed out how Anderson hustled over to back up B.Jones on Ugglas double to left. Blanco would have never even been in the pitcher.

By Jake

August 28, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this

Great catch B.Jones. His height helped with that one. Don’t know if Blanco could have got it. I guess Charlie couldn’t handle the success of actually having a lead. At least he got out of it.

By braves 70

August 28, 2008 8:49 PM | Link to this

To Backup MGL: McDowell worked with Morton on pointing his foot toward the plate rather than down the thirdbase line. They studied Adam Wainwright’s motion to impress Charlie. Charlie may be getting tired as Pete noted he was slipping up on the foot placement last inning. The Marlins scored 2.

By braves70

August 28, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this

Red Sox might need a pitcher like Hampton. Acording to Pete and Chip, Josh Beckett will visit Doctor Andrews tomorrow for an examination of his aching elbow. Doctor Andrews is cleaning up this year.

By wayne

August 28, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this

cant hit ask terry (no hitting coach) should be gone has no business coaching hitting at this level i know he had a good career but not a good coach

By McFann ;Ô;

August 28, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this

DOB @ 8:46—

Sweet. Hope he regains that lead soon—and keeps it for the rest of the year!

Dude…How many times do you get a pitcher from each team to strikeout the side? Maybe a lot more than I think…But still: Weird.

By JC FROM UT

August 28, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this

Despite the strikeout by BJones, I really hope he turns out to be a good player. I think he has a chance to be the LF next season or even the the RF if any good offers come for JF this winter.

By keylargo

August 28, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this

See there Jeff321, being a little positive didn’t hurt all that much did it? 8)

By Graham

August 28, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the input on MMJ. Had taken a friend to see them for her B-Day. I am always open to new music and they put on a heck of a live show. Just wasn’t into them that night. Maybe I will try to check them out some time later and see if I have a difference of opinion then.

By Brian

August 28, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this

Anderson or Blanco? That’s a no brainer for me. Blanco could be good backup though or trade bait. I don’t think that’s being too quick on Blanco either. He’s shown me he has pretty good eye but the K’s and Avg is pretty bad.

By bruce

August 28, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this

David do you think Elmer will stick? (i like the glue euphemisms) Thanks, Bruce

By Interested Observer

August 28, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this

Brandon Jones just learned a valuable lesson. He played too hard and got himself benched.

By Jeff321

August 28, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this

Anderson hustled over to back up B.Jones on Ugglas double to left. Blanco would have never even been in the pitcher.

FYI, I like Blanco & Anderson. But, when Blanco plays center field.. he just about always backs up the left & right fielders. For instance, by the time they’re catching the ball, Blanco is right behind them. So, do me a favor and save the BS.

By Anders

August 28, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this

Nerve transposition surgery and removed a small bone spur. Ligament was fine, Andrews said. Team just made announcement.

Based on this successful surgery and clean bill of health I assume Wren will immediately begin negotiations on a contract extension for Soriano. Certainly was enough for him last off season.

By Lawton

August 28, 2008 9:04 PM | Link to this

Sumoza batting 2nd and playing RF for Rome tonight.

1 for 3 with an RBI double so far.

By N8

August 28, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this

DOB

“If Anderson doesn’t steal second base, they don’t intentionally walk Chipper to get to Mac before Mac hit that three-run homer.”

Be careful. You might make people think that speed (and actual base-stealing ability), might help a team with ZERO power score some runs.

We wouldn’t want that now. It might make Coach gloat a bit.

By ncscoots

August 28, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this

Look out Wayne, Salty and Scoots. Julio’s good for about 3 TDs Saturday night.

Will those come in between the 6 80-yard TDs that Spiller will rip off? Or between the 4 TD passes from Harper?

Julio is good, a no-doubter, but he’ll be down by the schoolyard Saturday, bubba.

Getting…schooled.

By McFann ;Ô;

August 28, 2008 9:20 PM | Link to this

Well…dangit…

.288 with RISP.

By MGL

August 28, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this

McFann, did you put the Turtle back to bed? Another DP — Oh dear!!

By bfan54

August 28, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this

TommyP at 4:00 - DOB does owe you for his disapproval of your earlier remarks. I recall them, and while not fully endorsing your Trip&Doubl A wholesale call-up, it was certainly a “ball park” call. I did not agree with DOB’s season-ticket holder rationale. He blows a call now and then, but generally will be the first to admit it. So…DOB…does this occasional blogger get his props? - I mean he’s not a regular or anything like that…oh, I must be venting a bit…so sorry!

By ncscoots

August 28, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this

It might make Coach gloat a bit.

Unfortunately, nathan, such an outcome would automatically prove the fallacy of any such premise which precipitated it.

By TennesseePaul

August 28, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this

If Anderson doesn’t steal second base, they don’t intentionally walk Chipper to get to Mac before Mac hit that three-run homer.

Yes but speed is over-rated.

Noticed the blog has somewhat died down now that the Braves are finally fielding a team of youngsters and losing like mad. I could have sworn this is what was wanted… oh well.

Could be headed for a series win tonight… I’ll be headed for the Rock show.

By braves70

August 28, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this

Excellent game! That was as well played as any game we’ve played in some time. Felt like the old days. Good work youngsters. Keep it up.

By McFann ;Ô;

August 28, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this

BRAVE WIN!! BRAVES WIN!! BRAVES WIN!!

What a great night for sports—The Braves win, Tech’s winning 34-7…

MGL—

Oh dear is right…I didn’t even realize the guy got the ball at first—thought Mac had himself a double. Well, at least he got the homer!

McTurtle wasn’t in bed yet…Don’t why he didn’t work there…

; D

By bfan54

August 28, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this

Watson Twins w/Jenny Lewis’ “Rabbit Fur Coat” CD is cool, absolutely - to this 62 yr old dude- the title song (Rabbit Fur Coat) is very strange and brooding and captures an odd-corner of one’s psyche.

By N8

August 28, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this

T-Paul

The blog is slowing down, because the people who wanted to go with the youngsters and give up on the season have NOBODY to argue with anymore.

Doesn’t seem to be anybody left claiming that until “we’re mathematically eliminated, I’m not giving up!”

For me, it’s just the usual super busy first two weeks of the school year that keep me putting in 10-14 hour days (along with driving my two boys to 5 nights of football practice), keeping me off the blog.

I’ve been reading, just no time to do anything other than to drop the occasional little post on you all.

By Jeff321

August 28, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this

Prado looked pretty good tonight at first base. And of course Morton has the stuff to be dominant in this league.. Just needs to be more consistent.

KeyLargo, yeah I do make positive comments on occasion, eh!

By McFann ;Ô;

August 28, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this

Ugh…Katie Temple gets way to close to the guys she interviews.

By JEB

August 28, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this

In the 2 wins for the Braves - they scored a total of 14 runs with only ONE HR.

More than just one way to win games (waiting for the HR to come!)

By Lawton

August 28, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this

DOB: Since Morton tends to struggle with confidence (like many young pitchers), I have to think that every solid outing carries double significance for him. He gets the immediate benefit on the scoreboard and he gets the instrinsic rewards as well (positive experience to build on).

By McFann ;Ô;

August 28, 2008 10:10 PM | Link to this

I turn on my Nano, and guess what song is playing?

Gone, by Montgomery Gentry!

That’s freaky.

By JEB

August 28, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this

OK - here is a choice:

Would you rather have a team with a lot of speed, mid - power (5-15 hr. a yr.), and high avg (min. 300 avg)

or:

A team with 4 - 5 power hitters, with mid avg. 240 - 270, no speed.

What are the plus and minus’ both ways??

By Saltywoody

August 28, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this

It’s sad that it took a horrific season and a Kotsay trade to finally get Anderson an extended stay in the majors.

I don’t care that Wren said Blanco/Kotsay/Anderson were all the same player. They’re not. Kotsay and Blanco don’t steals bases and don’t display nearly the same baserunning ability Anderson does. This guy needs to be on the roster next year.

And I really like the way the first four spots (or five, depending on what Yunel’s doing) look on that lineup. You get Kotchman hitting like he can, you get Kelly and Frenchy back in line, and you get some power from left field, and that’s a solid lineup.

By brian

August 28, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this

if the Braves open the season next year with Anderson, Blanco and Francoeur in the OF because the spent big on a starting pitcher or two we may be OK. Francoeur would have to pick it up and Kotchman would have to return to his Mark Grace like (or Mark Grace want to be) numbers/swing.

Anderson, Prado, Chipper, McCann, Escobar, Kotchman, Francoeur, and Blanco.

Not bad but Bobby Cox would have to abandon the 3 run HR offensive philosophy and start to try and manufacture runs.

Infante could be the superutility player. Kelly would probably be traded or would become a 2B/LF sub.

With Prado’s play, the Braves have to make a decision about Lillebridge and yes a decision about Escobar. Who has the higher ceiling and who fits in best with the team? The other will likely be packaged for pitching or for a good, young LF. I assume it is Lillebridge to be traded, unless someone like Kansas City offers basically Greinke for Yunel or a trade similar to the Hamilton trade with the Reds.

By richbrave

August 28, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this

DAP and McFANN:

From the last blog.

Shame we only get a hint here and there about the character of our players. Course you can’t blame our paid AJC representatives. Stating such could be cause for a firing.

IF ESCOBAR’s ‘tude relates to team effort and not individual goals that are being unmet, I’m all for the guy. I think he’s a fine ball-player. I think he’s a keeper, IF that attitude is well placed.

And for those who say “Clubhouse - who cares”, if you’ve ever been a member of one, you’d know how vital to success it is.

By David O'Brien

August 28, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this

McFann, that’s unfortunate. The song, that is.

By David O'Brien

August 28, 2008 11:35 PM | Link to this

You know I’m just kidding with ya, McFann. That wasn’t nice of me. I’ve tried to avoid any music-snob statements like that recently, since it annoys me when people criticize my music preferences. Taste is an individual thing, and to each his (or her) own.

Besides, it’s not like you said you liked Whitesnake … or Dane Cook.

By N NIne

August 28, 2008 11:39 PM | Link to this

Yes, finally a little Tavarez love from DOB :)

one long word:noooooooooooooooooooooooo:(

this makes me sad and im done for the day. Fire Tavaras

By Brian

August 28, 2008 11:50 PM | Link to this

DOB- You have to have the best job. I’d love to hang out at Turner Field and talk with the guys. Man, what did I do wrong? College is boring and working blows chunks! Life ain’t fair. Oh well

By ObiWanKobe

August 28, 2008 11:56 PM | Link to this

DOB, In regards to music tastes; I only get offended if people have heard of more than 50% of the bands that I talk about. The general rule I have come to accept is this; if everyone has heard of it, then more often than not it’s bad and thus the inverse is true. That said the Earlimart disc is my favorite this year. FYI Stanford’s got a beast of a running back, giant anglo-saxon kid who has an extra gear. Check it out ESPN2

By Steve from OH

August 28, 2008 11:59 PM | Link to this

JEB, I’ll take whichever group has the higher OBP.

By monty

August 28, 2008 11:59 PM | Link to this

If Morton got the close calls Glavine and Maddux used to get he would have thrown a shut-out. He was not getting anything on the black tonight. Good job Charlie!

By Bubdylan

August 29, 2008 12:14 AM | Link to this

DOB SAID: You know I’m just kidding with ya, McFann. That wasn’t nice of me. I’ve tried to avoid any music-snob statements like that recently, since it annoys me when people criticize my music preferences. Taste is an individual thing, and to each his (or her) own.

AND I SAID: Wow. I’m impressed. Long live Frank Capra.

By Tomas

August 29, 2008 12:19 AM | Link to this

Great defense today. Every time they play good defense they seem to win. That’s key. By the way since August 14 the last game against the Cubs, Franceour has hit 15 for 51 hitting 294AVG with four multi-hit games, 3 walks, 8 runs, and 10 RBI’s. These are good signs from him, and I have faith that he will become the player he was the past several years. Kelly Johnson has played great defense lately, and since the high throw in New York Yunel has been perfect. Prado, is no longer a stranger to first base, he is playing first base like if he was playing there his whole life. I hope to see more of Josh Anderson, he has played great, and he offers more speed than Blanco.

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2008 12:28 AM | Link to this

Beckett scratched from Friday start and headed to see Dr. Andrews.

Wouldn’t surprise me if Red Sox placed a call to Frank Wren about Mike Hampton tonight….

By ObiWanKobe

August 29, 2008 12:36 AM | Link to this

DOB, You never got back to me on your thoughts regarding my idea for a charter company that only flies to Dr. Andrews. I said before it’d be lucrative.

By Rick

August 29, 2008 12:51 AM | Link to this

Did the Braves say why Soriano’s problem was not correctly diagnosed for so long ? Sounds like a number of doctors , including Dr. Andrews , missd the boat for 4 or 5 months .

It’s good that these guys are not heart specialists .

By Tomas

August 29, 2008 12:58 AM | Link to this

If they do trade Hampton, I hope they sign him in the offseason, of course not for much money. I think he’s health issues have been resolved, and the Braves can count more on Hampton staying healthy than Smoltz, and Glavine. But if he gets injured, in this last month, forget about it. I also heard the Mets, asked the Yanks for Carl Pavanno, now that it seems the Yankees are out of it. Maybe, Mark Prior is also available. Those three players, really have been hit hard by injuries, especially, the last three years.

By BravesFanInRockies

August 29, 2008 1:09 AM | Link to this

BTW, DOB, awesome song. I heard it on XM this past weekend and couldn’t get the damn thing out of my head for a couple of days.

By keylargo

August 29, 2008 1:20 AM | Link to this

DOB

Sounds like Hampton is a lot like a stock that has doubled in a month. Do you sell or is it going higher?

Surely it can’t be more valuable next month……….Can it?

What if I keep it for a year? How much will it be worth then? Nothing? Quadrupled?

By uga-brave

August 29, 2008 1:42 AM | Link to this

mike hampton has more stones then any of us combined.

laugh if you want, i would go into a foxhole with him.

he wanted to pitch, tried, some times it works sometimes nay.

By keylargo

August 29, 2008 1:55 AM | Link to this

BravesFaninRockies

Remember where you heard this first!! Last month. HR is coming!

By JEB

August 27, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this

DOB Any idea who the Marlins may throw out onto the trade market for next year?? They have several that will be up for arbitration and Fla. is not known for really expanding their payroll.

By David O’Brien

August 27, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this

JEB, with their new stadium deal once again tied up in the courts, they could be unloading anybody making any money at all.

By ObiWanKobe

August 29, 2008 2:02 AM | Link to this

Keylargo, If you are interested in having it for the playoffs it needs to be sold prior to the end of the month. If you are interested in just having it help get you to the playoffs it can be sold up until the end of the season, but will not be eligible for the playoffs. It is free to go at the conclusion of the season, regardless of where it ends the season. So in regards to accruing assets there are four options; sell it off prior to the end of the month, hold on to it and take the draft pick(s) that come from having another team sign it at the conclusion of the season, or build good will by keeping it and re-signing it, or have option one or two happen and then re-signing it. In a perfect world I’d go for option four. I think Mike will come back for a minimal contract as will Smoltz & Glavine. And the injury Gods will re-pay the Braves’ for the mis-fortune that has been the 2008 campaign.

By Metropolitan Man

August 29, 2008 2:08 AM | Link to this

Did you guys see this on ESPN? If so disregard.

Brave new world: Another team to watch closely this winter is the Braves, who will wave farewell to more than $56 million in contracts (primarily Teixeira, John Smoltz, Tom Glavine, Mike Hampton and Mark Kotsay). But the Braves have never been fans of free-agent madness. So there’s no reason to think, even with the loss of Tim Hudson for all or most of next season, that they’ll chase Sabathia, Sheets or A.J. Burnett.

More likely Braves targets would seem to be starters in the Ryan Dempster/Derek Lowe mold. Or they could check out the Asian market. But they also could take a pass on free agency and trade for a high-priced arm, a la Bronson Arroyo or Aaron Harang. The Braves have signaled that they’ll be willing to talk this winter about dealing just about anyone on the roster, except Chipper Jones, Brian McCann and Yunel Escobar. So they’ll have lots to talk about.

By Metropolitan Man

August 29, 2008 2:11 AM | Link to this

But here’s what we’ll be watching the next month: The potentially awesome National League batting race between Albert Pujols and Chipper Jones.

In one corner, you have Chipper, who, until Wednesday, had held the highest average in the major leagues for 132 days in a row — the longest streak in the 48-season expansion era, according to the Elias Sports Bureau.

In the other, you have Pujols, who won the 2003 batting title and is so ridiculously good and so ridiculously consistent, his average hasn’t dropped below .340 — even for a day — since April 8.

TRIVIALITY Chipper Jones is trying to win the first batting title of his career, at age 36. Only one player in history has ever won his first batting title at an older age. Can you name him? (Answer later.) These guys were destined to get mixed up in an epic batting race one of these days, weren’t they? Heck, they have the two best averages in the big leagues since Opening Day 2006, Opening Day 2007 and Opening Day 2008. And, amazingly, there is only a one-point difference in their averages over the last three years, a five-point difference over the last two years and a one-point difference this year (.357 for Pujols, .356 for Jones).

If they keep this up, this could be only the third NL batting race since 1900 in which the winner and runner-up each hits better than .350 and the gap between first and second place is three points or closer. The others were won by Phil Cavarretta (.355) over Tommy Holmes (.352) in 1945, and by — whaddayaknow? — Pujols himself (.359) over Todd Helton (.358) in 2003.

There has been only one AL race like this since 1930, too (Paul O’Neill over Albert Belle, .354-.351, in 1994). So batting duels this compelling don’t exactly come around every September. And that’s just one more cool plot line in a final month that promises to be as fun and magnetic as any in a long, long time.

By Dawg19

August 29, 2008 2:54 AM | Link to this

The only player to win their first batting title over the age of 36 is Barry Bonds in 2002, when he hit .370 on the year.

By Coach ( Skip will be missed)

August 29, 2008 3:57 AM | Link to this

My opinion of Hampton has totally changed. Atlanta should keep him around till the end of the season. IF (and that’s a big I-F) Hampton continues to pitch and stay healthy, the Braves would be wise to try and resign him to an incentive laden one year contract for 2009 before he becomes a free agent.

Rule numero uno, said team can NEVER , EVER have enough pitching. Especially starting pitching.

And 10Paul, speed kills, it never slumps and always amps up the offense. You can quote Whitey Herzog on that.

Welcome back Josh Anderson, it’s about damn time.

By Moby Grape

August 29, 2008 4:54 AM | Link to this

Now, imagine having Blanco & Anderson playing every game. They could really bother a pitcher out there on the bases. And it looks to me like they both know how to get on base. Jeff

that is not gonna happen on any long term basis like next year. One might start but not both of them. If you absolutley can’t live without two powerless speedsters in the lineup you better hope that they trade johnson and that lilli starts at second

By Coach ( Skip will be missed)

August 29, 2008 5:02 AM | Link to this

Now that Elmer is being added to the bullpen, I wonder if he has any glue?

By ncscoots

August 29, 2008 6:27 AM | Link to this

Moby, “two powerless speedsters” won’t be nearly enough for many here, LOL. Try this: a lineup with Anderson, Blanco, Prado, and Kotchman. 20 HR (maybe) from half your everyday. Somehow that doesn’t have the odor of an 800-run team.

But, they’d be “exciting” and just “manufacturing” all to hell and gone, so many bloggers would be happy.

The pitching staff…not so much. :-)

By TommyP

August 29, 2008 6:41 AM | Link to this

bfan54: I appreciate the props. Back in that post, I never wanted “wholesale” callups but wanted several.

And I’m not a daily regular but more a frequent regular. I read almost every day but only post when I see something I have an interest in posting about.

Trying to remember who said it earlier but I agree 100% with the blogger that took the Wren quote of “Anderson, Blanco and Kotsay are basically the same player” to task. Actually, several on here have said that and I don’t see it. They each offer something different.

Anderson now playing, Prado playing, B.Jones now playing…..at least the main young guys are playing now. Will they be allowed to play everyday for the duration of the year? We’ll see….

*By David O’Brien August 28, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this It’s fun watching Josh A. go from first to third. Dude can flat-out fly. Effortless stride.

Like this potential spark from Anderson and Prado at the top.*

Speechless.

By TIMEFORCHANGE

August 29, 2008 7:44 AM | Link to this

They will probably trade Hampton. After spending all that money and basically holding the team hostage for the last three years, hes traded to another team and they sign him, he goes on next year to win the cy young and the braves get nothing from him. Thats the thing to do is trade him now. That way the braves get nothing at all for the money they spent.

By TIMEFORCHANGE

August 29, 2008 7:44 AM | Link to this

They will probably trade Hampton. After spending all that money and basically holding the team hostage for the last three years, hes traded to another team and they sign him, he goes on next year to win the cy young and the braves get nothing from him. Thats the thing to do is trade him now. That way the braves get nothing at all for the money they spent.

By Couch Tater

August 29, 2008 7:51 AM | Link to this

scoots Do you suppose Tommy gave Vic a copy of Marshall McLuhan’s, The Gutenberg Galaxy?

By Shaun

August 29, 2008 8:03 AM | Link to this

Dunn or Burrell? That’s the only choice? I could have sworn trades could be made in the offseason. Wren so far has been a better trader than signer. And he seems to like guys that don’t strikeout much…

TennesseePaul, of course not. These are just the two guys who we know are available who have the most power and have an ability to get on base…plus they are relatively young, especially Dunn.

Currently Dunn ranks 4th in the majors in isolated power (slugging without singles). Burrell ranks 7th.

I hope Wren doesn’t discriminate against high-strikeout guys if he thinks the Braves can contend next season and if those high-strikeout guys can also get on base and hit for tremendous power.

By SNIPER-69

August 29, 2008 8:12 AM | Link to this

When brave fans said this would be a three team race I’m sure they thought they’d be one of them. I guess that’s why there are less appearances from LEW-SER, Bravefart, Doc H, ect, ect. I said it early in the season and I’ll say it again…….LETS GO METS!!!

By Hit, Heap, Hit

August 29, 2008 8:20 AM | Link to this

TIMEFORCHANGE, it’s time for your meds if you think Hampy will win a Cy Young.

By Shaun

August 29, 2008 8:25 AM | Link to this

And 10Paul, speed kills, it never slumps and always amps up the offense. You can quote Whitey Herzog on that.

Speed certainly is a valuable weapon but not as important as other things.

Look at how often Whitey Herzog’s good teams got on base. Speed is useless if your hitters make outs often.

Speed never slumps? Maybe. But players with speed do slump. Ask Willy Taverez, Juan Pierre, Michael Bourn, even Jose Reyes at times.

Ask the Giants (31 triples, 101 steals) how much speed is helping them score runs.

By CanEmAll

August 29, 2008 8:46 AM | Link to this

DOB, it was different having someone at the top that can make something happen. I like Anderson’s speed and his ability to steal bases. The Braves have been horrible at moving runners along, something that used to be basic baseball fundamentals. Remember the days when the Braves had Otis Nixon at the top. He got on base, stole bases and set the tone for the offense. Does Anderson get a shot at all next season?

By Mike

August 29, 2008 8:55 AM | Link to this

If Mike Hampton had a shred of integrity, he would play for the Braves at least two years at the league minimum.

By Shaun

August 29, 2008 9:01 AM | Link to this

CanEmAll, the Braves haven’t been able to advance runners because they have little power this season.

During Otis Nixon’s time in Atlanta, the Braves finished 3rd, 1st and 1st in the NL in homers.

By brent a.

August 29, 2008 9:15 AM | Link to this

I’ll take strike-outs over double-plays.

By A winning organization

August 29, 2008 9:18 AM | Link to this

Beckett scratched from Friday start and headed to see Dr. Andrews.

Wouldn’t surprise me if Red Sox placed a call to Frank Wren about Mike Hampton tonight….

No…..we won’t.

By JC FROM UT

August 29, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this

There is nothing that says we trade Hampton to Boston or whoever for the last month of the season for a marginal prospect then turn around and re-sign him to a incentive laden contract this winter. That is if FW and BC are willing to take that chance again. I doubt Hamton would garner any draft pick compensation to his last team if he is signed as a FA. Hampton hopefully would feel a moral obligation to give Atlanta first crack at signing hinm since he stole money thae last few years.

By Random

August 29, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this

McFann: “That many turtles? Dang…Bet that baby was cute! We found a baby turtle a about ten years ago…Kept him for a few days. Some woods near Stone Mountain used to have some really tiny turtles, too.”

Yeah, I walk by a small lake on my way to and from work. I usually stop by it mornings and evenings until I see a couple.

There are two humongous snappers (head big as my fist, shell big as a garbage can lid) — I’ve seen them just a couple of times.

Most days I see a smaller snapper (15”-18” diam shell), a couple of mud turtles about the same size as that, and various “cooters” (sliders — red-eared and yellow-eared).

Yesterday I saw a momma and baby cooter swimming together — baby about as big as your palm and mama about 3x. (Or it could have been a mentor-protege sitch, like Batman and Robin.)

I guess the baby turtle that you all abducted (I mean, “adopted”) was a box turtle?

(And btw, how do you know what happened ten years ago? Did an older sibling tell you?)

(-8

By McFann ;Ô;

August 29, 2008 9:45 AM | Link to this

DOB—

That’s OK. No offense taken. Actually, it was kinda funny—what you said.

Not to worry; I’ve never listened to (for that matter, heard of until the other day) Whitesnake or Dane Cook.

Richbrave—

Yeah, it is a shame—but we can’t ask for something that could cost someone their job.

I’ve always thought that character was vital to the success of a team. That’s why I like to see that Braves go after guys with good character.

GREAT GAME LAST NIGHT!!

By Braveheart

August 29, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this

Sniper, I would tell you to go to hell but if Shoeless Joe ever comes walking out of the weeds of the raw sewage swamps and asks if this is hell, I’m sure you’ll tell him, no, this is Queens.

By DAP

August 29, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this

Hampton hopefully would feel a moral obligation to give Atlanta first crack at signing hinm since he stole money thae last few years.

i have a feeling he doesnt think about it the same way we do. i think he will sign in atlanta for less, but not WAY less. if a team offers him $10mil a year (would any team do that? i dont know…) he will sign with that team. the braves will NOT offer him that much, im sure of it. he will be lucky to get $5mil a year from the braves, i think.

By flange1

August 29, 2008 10:04 AM | Link to this

Good one at 9:50 WW!!!

Fun game last night! Always good to win, but Morton really looked good. Good to see Anderson and Prado do their jobs at the top of the order.

And a great play by B Jones in LF.

Good to see a homerun from BMac as well.

I thought last night was mucho fun! Hope we can see this lineup more often.

By McFann ;Ô;

August 29, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

Random I walk by a small lake on my way to and from work. I usually stop by it mornings and evenings until I see a couple.

That’s cool! We saw a big snapper by the side of the road once (he was in the grass—alive). Those things are huge. Big as a garbage lid? Dang…

*Yesterday I saw a momma and baby cooter swimming together *

Aw, that’s adorable! Baby turtles are really cute.

I’m not sure if that one we found was a baby Box Turtle or not…Don’t know what else it could have been—the nearest water is at the other end of our neighborhood, quite a ways away from our house.

(And btw, how do you know what happened ten years ago? Did an older sibling tell you?)

No, I was there. : ) Actually turns out it was a little longer than ten years…

By Shaun

August 29, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this

DAP, to be honest, I’d be surprised if a team gives Hampton much more than $1 million a year at most.

By SNIPER-69

August 29, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this

Bravefart, did you think of that little story all by yourself moron? I’m sure there are sh!t hole areas in Atlanta that you wouldn’t want to me in at midnight a$$ wipe. You probably live there so you wouldn’t know the difference.

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this

CanEmAll: Yes, I think Anderson gets a legit shot at winning the job. Just from conversations yesterday, I really think they’ve come around on him after his performance this season at Richmond. He’s worked on driving the ball more, and the result was a lot more extra-base hits (20 in July and August, according to Wren, though I didn’t check to see if that was exactly right).

By Lew

August 29, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this

Couple points on the overnight posts-

Metro Dude-The offseason should definitely be interesting. The Braves have all that money coming off the books-So do the Mets and the Yankees. We will witness a spending spree worthy of the most jaded debauchee. It will be a fitting testament to Capitalism, Marvin Miller and the fact that MLB is raking in $6 Billion a year.

Anderson’s speed is scary, isn’t it. That play where he backed up in left is typical of his play. At Spring Training, he was playing right field in the UGA game. There was a runner on first and there was a tapper to the pitcher. The throw was low to second and on the relay to first, I looked over and Josh Anderson was standing behind the first baseman-He backed an infield play at first from right field. I still don’t know how he got there that quickly. It was like the old comic book Hero, The Flash.

Snipper is still a douchebag.

Interesting how many people are jumping back on the Hampton bandwagon. He’s gone from being a worthless thief of unearned money to having more stones than anyone in the history of baseball. Whatever. Glad I didn’t knock him like some of the others.

Dessens is a warm body and cannon fodder-nothing else.

Snipper is and always will be a douchbag.

Yeah, that about covers it.

By The Mysterious Rhinestone Cowboyh

August 29, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this

DOB or Carroll (whichever is going),

In regards to the upcoming road trip, and in honor of ol’ Skip: “When you get to Washington, say hello to my money for me.”

(Thanks for that quote a while back, Shaun)

By Braveheart

August 29, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this

Will those come in between the 6 80-yard TDs that Spiller will rip off? Or between the 4 TD passes from Harper?

Okay, partna, raising the stakes I see. Spiller’s gonna have 500 yards rushing in this one? Are you really predicting a 70-21 outcome on Saturday night? Alright, I’ll see your 6 Spiller TDs and raise you 2 punt returns for TDs by Agent Zero’s little cuz, 2 TD catches for B.J. Scott and 3 TD runs by Mark Ingram as beautiful as the run by his father in Super Bowl XXV.

By stynes

August 29, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this

I was also digging the Anderson-Prado 1-2 punch at the top of the order. That’s the first time I’ve seen Anderson play much and I really liked what I saw. Dude can flat out fly and plays with with little bit of an attitude. And I mean that in a good way. He reminded me a little bit of someone… maybe a young Lenny Dykstra?

By SNIPER-69

August 29, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this

Lew-Ser, I can feel the bitterness of a lost season in your post. All those hopes and dreams destroyed by a team that wasn’t as good as you thought. You’ll need to get yourself together and carry on. Lastly, I know the standings make this apprently clear but I like writing it anyway….THE BRAVES SUCK!!

By Fred

August 29, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this

Sniper, I have lived in both Atlanta and NYC and am very familiar with aptly named Flushing, Queens. Trust me, Atlanta is so much nicer and cleaner than the run down and disgusting Queens. That’s why you see so many fans of NY teams here in Georgia - it’s a much better place to live so people move down here. As the late, great Lewis Grizzard used to say, you won’t find anyone in an Atlanta bar celebrating about being transfered to NY or NJ.

By varoadrunner

August 29, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this

I actually liked watching the y0oungsters playing last night. Perfect relay from Frenchy to Kelly to McCann to nail Lo Duca. Anderson in the leadoff spot looks good to me - he can get on base and he can run. Seems to have a good eye too. I hope the keep Hampton and sign him for next season. He looks like he is getting back into playing condition and maybe he’s finding his command. Morton, with some MLB experience now, looks like he can be effective next year.

DOB You told us that Hudson would be back, at the earliest, August. What about Smoltz? Soriano? In other words, without an addition or two to the staff, what is our opening day staff for ‘09?

By SNIPER-69

August 29, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this

Lew-Ser, I can feel the bitterness of a lost season in your post. All your hopes and dreams stolen by a team that wasn’t as good as you thought they were. You’ll need to get yourself together and carry on. And even though the standings make this apparently clear, I like writing it anyway….THE BRAVES SUCK!!!

By DAP

August 29, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this

shaun i know what your saying, but carlos silva got $10mil per, didnt he? his team is actually better off when he is injured! hampton is a pitcher, as long as he pitches. i think a team will take that chance for more than $1mil.

By DAP

August 29, 2008 11:06 AM | Link to this

hampton is a pitcher, as long as he pitches.

what a stupidly obvious sentence. it should have read “hampton is a good pitcher, as long as he pitches.

if he makes every start from now till the end of the year and puts up an ERA in the 3.00-4.00 range, he will get a contract from somebody worth alot more than $1mil.

thats what i think anyways.

By Brian

August 29, 2008 11:13 AM | Link to this

Sniper- You’re that fat,trashy,obnoxious know it all yankee I was talking about yesterday. I knew I’d find ya. You people sure do move down here in bunches. Wonder why? Let me guess, so you can teach us how to treat people and how to act in public. My God, I can understand a Yankees fan being obsessed with them. But the Muts??? What have they ever done? LOSERS!!!!!!!

By Lew

August 29, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

Snipper-As for the Braves sucking-I guess you would know. You’ve sucked most (if not all) of your life (providing, of course, you actually have a life. Talk about losers. You got the job.

By ncscoots

August 29, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this

Okay, partna, raising the stakes I see.

Just a little (OK, a lot) of hyperbole, my friend, LOL. Seriously, it’s kinda nice to open up with a legit team, instead of a cupcake. My guys are expected to be more than good this year, so might as well get a clue right out of the box.

Open up with Bama on the road? HAVE mercy!

By Random

August 29, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this

By Random

August 27, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this

Apparently, the Braves are (may be?) shopping Hampton to one of the play-off contenders.

This is the first I’d heard of something like this — not that surprising, after all, since his perceived value has probably gone up by several orders of magnitude since the non-waiver trade deadline (since he had only started one game prior to 31 Jul).

His last three starts: 1-1, 20 IP, 8 ER (3.60 ERA), 11 K/5 BB, 30 GO/17 AO, 3 quality starts.

SO, a couple of questions for you, DOB:

(1) Has Hampton cleared waivers?

(b) Are the Braves shopping him around, or looking to trade him, this season?

Again, DOB — has Hampton cleared waivers? I assume he must’ve, but I don’t know.

Also, of the 16 hits he’s allowed in his last two games, 7 have been groundballs that got through the infield (5 line drives, 3 flies & 1 HR).

By Shaun

August 29, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this

shaun i know what your saying, but carlos silva got $10mil per, didnt he? his team is actually better off when he is injured! hampton is a pitcher, as long as he pitches. i think a team will take that chance for more than $1mil.

Silva threw 180-plus innings a year from 2004 to 2007.

Hampton is 36 and missed two full seasons. He hasn’t thrown 200 innings since 2001. True, he has been pretty good when he has pitched. But if he gets much more than $1 million, I’ll be slightly surprised. But, I’ve been wrong before. And I probably shouldn’t be surprised at any amount of money a team may be willing to throw at any player.

By NS from Kennesaw

August 29, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this

DOB, I know it is a business here but I would suggest Hampton, who seems healthy again, seriously consider giving a huge discount and stay with the Bravo for another season. At least it is a nice guesture to the organization and the fan for those years of injury.

For the lack of offensive, I have an opinion that our guys seems to be looking to hit HR all the time. Frenchy in particular. I may be wrong, but that’s what I perceived when watching. Why not focusing more on playing ABC balls. Now that we have a few pretty fast guys in the line up, lets make opposing picther worried about us steal the base . . like those days when we had Fookie

By SNIPER-69

August 29, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this

Brian sounds like a redneck who hasn’t picked the hay out of his a-s-s and hasn’t had his grits yet. Are you still going out with your sister?

By chris

August 29, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this

DOB,

What do you think about throwing Bennett in the mix as a starter next year? I really don’t think we can use his four or five spot starts this year as a good gauge. A few of them were emergency starts. He had an outstanding spring, makikng the team as a long shot. And he was terrific last September. He has actually had a decent year this year and I just wonder what his most effective role is.

Thx,

Chris from MD

By SNIPER-69

August 29, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this

Lew-Ser, Brian, Fred, Is that what it’s come to? Name calling, Dogging other cities and insults to vent your frustration with your sh!tty team. It must be painful to look at the standings and see the braves way down there. Go ahead, let it out. A good cry will make you feel better.

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this

NS from Kennesaw: While I understand your suggestion, I’m also not going to be so presumptious as to suggest someone should turn down millions of dollars — if it comes to that — in order to repay some debt that others may believe he has to the organization.

Dude was hurt. Again and again and again. But he was hurt while doing his job, right? Or while trying to do his job? it’s a sticky area, man, to tell another guy he should work for free or at a reduced rate to repay some debt we feel he owes to this company or that one.

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this

Random, yes, he cleared waivers, from what I’m told. Not surprising, considering someone claiming him in early August would’ve owed him about $5 mill and at the time he hadn’t put together this string of three quality starts in a row….

Varoadrunner: As I wrote in the paper and on the blog above, Soriano is expected to be fully recovered for spring training. I was clear about that. That’s what we’re told, what Andrews said.

As for Smoltz, again, we have no way of knowing when he might be ready to pitch, or if he’ll even be able to. It’ll probably be spring training or maybe even later before he makes a decision about continuing his career, after he sees how it feels when he starts throwing again. He had damage that probably no other pitcher has come back from at that age. In fact, I’m confident in saying no other one has.

Braves will NOT count on Smoltz to be part of rotation next year. Repeat, will not. If he comes back, it’ll probably be as a reliever, though that’s not determined definitively.

By Lew

August 29, 2008 1:02 PM | Link to this

Snipper-Re: your 12:53 post. Do you even recognize the hypocrisy? Do you even know what hypocrisy means?

By Vol

August 29, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this

From Hampton’s perspective, he’s probably worked harder to earn his paycheck over the past few years than he ever did when healthy.

By Steve from OH

August 29, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this

I don’t know if anyone has noticed/posted this, but Todd Redmond was named the Southern League pitcher of the year yesterday. Yet another good trade by Frank Wren.

By Thrillhouse44

August 29, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this

Lew, I haven’t gotten a chance to thank you for the Skip print and it’s long overdue, so thanks dude! Great work from a great man.

I think if we get a boost this offseason, it’s going to be via a trade. It sounds like Baby Boss Steinbrenner is going to spend as much money as it takes.

By Fred

August 29, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

Sniper, You obviously misunderstand what I wrote earlier. I was not venting about the Braves poor season. I was simply sharing my observations of 2 cities that I have lived in. I can’t imagine too many people (if any) would say that Flushing, Queens is a nice place.

You mentioned that it must be painful for Braves fans to watch the standings. What makes me feel better is going to Turner Field to look at all of those banners reflecting our 14 consecutive division titles. How many have your Mets won in that span? What about the 2007 standings, which reflect one of the greatest collapses in major league history?

By SNIPER-69

August 29, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this

LEW-SER, you’re ignoring the truth. We won’t get far in your therapy if you don’t cooperate. Now lets try it again. Take a deep breath and read me the NL East standings. It’ll hurt at the begining but you’ll/We’ll get through this together buddy. I’m here for you.

By Steve from OH

August 29, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Has Frank Wren ever mentioned Redmond by name in any of your conversations about the minor league system?

By Big Easy

August 29, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this

For Hampton, the following quote would apply:

You’re going to find that most of the truths we cling to depend greatly on our point of view. — Obi-Wan Kenobi

Like Vol said, from his perspective, he’s worked hard for the team just to get back.

I’ve got no real beef with Hampton. The guy has done everything he is supposed to do. Am I disappointed that he has been hurt more than he has been healthy? Of course. But the guy finally came back, and is pitching pretty well (especially considering a layoff of almost 3 years). Again, I have no beef with the guy. I don’t see him as laughing his way to the bank, like some do. I am sure if he had the choice, he would have been pitching instead of rehabbing all that time.

~E~

By SNIPER-69

August 29, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

Fred, When did I get into comparing Queens to Atlanta with you? As for that division thing…..It’s called living in the past Freddy. It’ll hurt you if you let it.

By Thrillhouse44

August 29, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this

Sniper, didn’t last year teach you anything? I know the Mess haven’t had much practice at winning graciously, but I’d wait until the season ended before I came on here bragging the way you are today. I’d be more worried about the Mess losing the lead in September again than coming on here to boast.

By Billy

August 29, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this

It is way too early to now know, but it could take a 10-12 month rehab stint and a month of throwing minor league games to know if Smoltz is where he and the Braves want him. I wonder if the Braves or Smoltz will be satisfied with him throwing 4-5 innings a week for a month in the bullpen. To end his career as a reliever with maybe 20-30 innings to show for all the rehab and surgery sounds so not Smoltz like. Could ‘09 will be his last year or was ‘08 it?

I have watched Smoltz pitch since he was in the Tigers organization and I get the feeling he will want to get back into the rotation. His entire rehab will be geared towards the rotation, based on what I know about him. Will he pitch out of the bullpen? Maybe. Will he be satisfied? Not a chance.

By Wayne in Utah

August 29, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this

I have followed Mike Hampton before he came to the Braves, having lived in Houtson in the 1990’s. I was perplexed by the Colorado contract, considering that Denver was where good pitchers go to die.

I guess money talks, and BS walks.

The man has at least 3 surgeries as a Brave (might have been 4?). I have been under the knife for a few minor things, and guys don’t do that unless it is necessary.

Lot’s here have said some pretty terrible things about him in the past, and now he is getting a little better press (where are the naysayers now?).

Personally, unless the Braves get a good prospect, why trade him? We could use him every 5th game here for the “stretch” run. We could save 2-3 million if he is traded, but is that a lot for the organization? Not really.

If there is no real thought to offer Mike a contract next year, then trade him. As DOB points out, he is a better choice in the 5th spot than lots of contending teams now have. Let’s get some value back if we deal him.

In case Mike is a reader, thanks for your persistance! Some have been behind you all along.

By Steve from OH

August 29, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this

Tyler Flowers and about half of the Myrtle Beach team made the Carolina League post-season awards sheet.

By TommyP

August 29, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this

Which report said the Braves’ untouchables are Chipper, McCann and Yunel?

Glad to see Yunel as staying. I do believe he’s going to become a star. I know several have become agitated with his play (and effort, I believe) but he definitely has the tools.

By Jake

August 29, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this

You Mets fans are sad. You get a little and I stress a little success and you lose your mind. I am not here to call names but to simply state the truth. Your team has no closer. You need only look at our 2006 team to see what that does to you. The division seems to be coming down between you and the phillies and you hardly have the buffer you managed to blow last year. Your team has no heart, but they know how to quit. Just like they did on Randolph this year. They act as if they have done something these past three years that makes them some powerhouse. Carlos Beltran labels them the team to beat. The same guy who took a called third strike that sent the Mets home in the 2006 playoffs after they were clear and away the best team in the league that year. At least when Rollins said it he backed it up with an MVP. Then last year they blow a lead for the ages. This year after the bold Beltran quote and the addition of Santana they still managed to disapoint. They have a one game lead over the phillies who can only seem to score and win when it comes to the braves, but play inconsistent when it comes to the rest of the teams. Forida is 6 games out now, but they no not to count themselves out because they know its the Mets they are chasing. Yeah were bad this year, but you lose Santana, Pedro, and Maine your one two and three. Then your closer and setup guy for basically the whole season. Have David Wright hit the way Frenchy has and then tell me where your team would be. Worse than us probably.

By BravesFanInRockies

August 29, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

Coach is delighted that Anderson will finally get his shot, and I look forward to the experiment.

It’s good to hear from DOB that he’s actually trying to drive the ball. We’ll see how well that works.

From what we can see so far, between Anderson and Blanco you can assemble a really good leadoff hitter. Blanco knows the strike zone, can get on via the walk, the well-placed soft line drive and the bunt. Anderson is a pure speed burner who has very modest gap power.

I’m not sure Blanco is going to acquire Jose Reyes-like power. So if Anderson can show more patience as he did last night and hit the ball harder, we may have a winner. Or at least a decent placeholder until Schafer or Hernandez is ready.

By BravesFanInRockies

August 29, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this

Actually, Anderson’s better than Willy Taveras, for what that’s worth.

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this

TommyP, Braves’ thoughts on Yunel haven’t changed at all. I asked specifically about him yesterday. For a player in his first full season, not even taking into account injuries, his performance has been typically inconsistent at times. But nothing has changed about their view of him. They believe he’s a potential All-Star SS in the future.

By etownbrave

August 29, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this

LEW

Got my Skip print today and was excited to open it and see it for real. Thank you so very much. A super way to memorilize Skip and “The Call”. Will find a frame and hang it this weekend. Again thank you!

By Brian

August 29, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this

Sniper- On your 12:42 post- What’s with the redneck talk? Nowhere near a dirty redneck! You’re very ignorant! It’s like us southerners calling all you sewer rats. Our few years of frustration can’t come close to all the disapointment you fans have felt! 1986, that’s a VERY LONG TIME AGO!!! It’s really pointless talking to a Mut fan, but I can try, I guess.

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this

Chris, honestly, I think the Braves need to aim higher than Bennett as a guy for next year’s rotation.

By flange1

August 29, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this

I know that the team has work to do in the off season, but I am VERY happy with what I have seen from Prado.

And Anderson was fun to watch last night too.

I hope that Bobby can get ALL of the youngsters Blanco, Anderson, Prado, B Jones and Lillibridge some decent playing time from Sept 1 through the end of the year.

I see a team with lots of good pieces that don’t fit together real well. I hope other GM’s see it this way too and we can change some of our parts for parts that better suit the team.

By Renegator

August 29, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this

Where will Prado play when Kotchman comes back? Do you think it will be a straight platoon with Kelly at 2nd?

By Brad

August 29, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Heard Gammons on the radio today discussing Beckett’s injury and how the team is hoping that the visit to Dr. Andrews is nothing more than precautionary and meant to inspire confidence that his arm is okay without major surgery.

It got me thinking about all of the injuries the Braves have dealt with this season among the pitching staff. We’ve had four undergo major reconstructive surgery, while others like Glavine dealt with serious setbacks. Should the coaches or medical staff be taking heat for an inability to discover these ailments before they became so severe, or has this just been a horrendously unlucky year for the pitching staff?

By ncscoots

August 29, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

Actually, Anderson’s better than Willy Taveras, for what that’s worth.

Faint praise, that, LOL.

I mean, I love watching Usain Bolt run, too, but I don’t want HIM playing CF every day next year, either. :-)

Anderson’s historical secondary average is poor. He hasn’t walked much, hasn’t hit for even a smidgen of power, and hasn’t hit for average enough to make up for the other shortcomings.

Certainly, it’s possible that his 90 MLB ABs are a better indicator than his 2800+ ABs in the minors, as some here have suggested, and he’ll go on to become something special. Stranger things have happened. But that’s hardly the kind of wager that makes you want to rush to the $2 window.

By Random

August 29, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

TommyP: “what are the Braves going to learn about these kids in Arizona that they don’t already know from their AA performances?” [Charlie Morton, anyone?]

“Bring up a few of these kids and if they perform admirably during the tail-end of a futile season, you have an idea that these kids can handle major league pitching. … However, if you keep them down on the farm and send them to the Arizona Fall League, you’re still not sure if they can handle the bigs… . If you wait ‘til spring training where they’ll see tons of rookies, spring roster invitees, and veterans working on perhaps one pitch and not necessarily on performance, again, have you learned anything about that player and if he can handle big league pitching/hitting? No.” [And what do you plan to do with that “idea”?]

“we’ll now START next season with NO IDEA how several of our prospects that are close to being ready match up against major league pitching.” [Overreact much?]

“I get it. So the Braves KNOW how these prospects will fare when they get to the majors and compete on the ultimate level? Based on what? … Fact is that they don’t know. Nobody knows. You have to be thrown into the fire to see how you react… . But you would think that this would be the time to get that idea, to see some facts…..not next, say, May or June when we’re actually in a race.” [Based on their performances as they make their way up the normal progression of minor league levels, to include the AZFL.]

Ahem.

So. You think the Braves should put … who? Tommy Hanson? Kris Medlen? Jason Heyward? Jordan Schafer? whoever … on their 40-man roster in order to call them up in September (or before, even), for the sole purpose of seeing how they fare against Major Leaguers.

Okay. And let’s say that they can do this without displacing anyone of value currently on the 40-man roster. (Like DOB has said, they can open 2 spots by putting Soriano and Diaz on the 60-day DL, and like you have said, who would even miss Gotay, Tavarez or Dessens?)

All right. Let’s say the Braves do that, and let’s say they see a month’s worth of their rookies’ performance against Major Leaguers.

What do you expect the Braves to do with that information? How will the rookies’ successes (or failures) this September affect what the Braves do with them next year? It’s totally useless info (no, not totally — I’m exaggerating to make a point).

Any info the Braves got from bringing them up this year would not be worth starting the clocks on their ML service time and starting their minor league options. (And ML service time and having minor league options are also relevant factors if we eventually trade any of them — makes them worth more in a trade if the former is minimized and the latter maximized.)

And anyway, isn’t that what the Braves are already doing with Anderson, Nunez, Blanco and Jones? Are you so unwilling to trust Braves management to know which of their youngsters are ready to face Major Leaguers and which are not?

Why do you want some guys (Hanson, Medlen) brought up in September and not (say) Casey Hodges and Randall Delgado from Danville, or Santos Rodriguez and Daniel Lopez from Gulf Coast? What’s that you say? They’re not ready?

I suppose you can accept your own judgment in such matters, but not the Braves’ judgment. I imagine the Braves are too close to the situation and have too much knowledge of their own players that they can’t see the forest for the trees, huh? (Yes, yes — heavy sarcasm there.)

Yours is a willfully ignorant opinion, my boy.

NS from Kennesaw: “I would suggest Hampton, who seems healthy again, seriously consider giving a huge discount and stay with the Bravo for another season.”

Hey — it’s not the Braves that he owes, but the Braves’ insurance company.

I think he should do some free publicity for them, and also volunteer to work for free in their accounting department.

After all — everybody in unison — he’s quite good at counting money!!!

<-;

By Shaun

August 29, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this

ncscoots, I am concerned about Anderson as an everyday player; I agree with you, it doesn’t look like he has quite enough ability at the plate as most good everyday centerfielders. Plus his batting average on balls in play is darn high, much higher than his recent BABIP in the minors.

The promising thing is he does have a career .340 OBP in the minors and we all know about his impressive speed. He could be a very solid fourth outfielder and possible platoon option.

And he put up those merely okay minor league numbers mostly before age 26. So he maybe be a little better than his numbers indicate. The big concern is power. His speed helps to make up for that but his OBP may not be good enough for a complete lack of power.

By Shaun

August 29, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this

Random, you aren’t going to win with the let’s-call-up-every-youngster-with-potential crowd. Sorry to break it to you.

By Anders

August 29, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this

DOB

TommyP, Braves’ thoughts on Yunel haven’t changed at all. I asked specifically about him yesterday. For a player in his first full season, not even taking into account injuries, his performance has been typically inconsistent at times. But nothing has changed about their view of him. They believe he’s a potential All-Star SS in the future.

I happen to agree with your assessment of Escobar here. In the raw talent department he reminds me of Alfonso Soriano when he was young. Not the same player because Escobar is a much better fielder and will hit for better average while Soriano has more power. Overall I think Escobar will be the better package of the two. That said, you kill me with how easily you now slough off that it was only his first full season with expected inconsistencies etc. When I brought up Escobar as a risk over the off season because of how hard this game is and especially in a guys first time through a whole season you blasted me with “Did you even see this play for the last 4 months in 2007?” and ” This kid was getting stronger at the end ” etc. etc.

Dude, if you could find it in yourself to put aside your apparent hatred of all things Anders you might see that I actually have some idea of what I’m talking about.

By N NIne(Fire tavaras now)

August 29, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this

This is the time for Tavaras: We are getting fresh young arms. So the need for arms to get through the year would not be an excuse now.

AND if you believe that Tavaras needs to be part of our ‘pen for next year, I want to hear a solid reasoning to this silly statement.

Stop this “need for Tavaras”

By N Nine(Fire tavaras now)

August 29, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this

With this month and a solid spring, I can see Anderson be our leadoff man. If he proves and shows the want like he has. Its very possible.

If Hampton is not in our plans for next year, we should get what we can from others. SELL SELL SELL is still in the air!

Tavaras is NOT our answer to 09 bullpen.

By McFanders

August 29, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this

I love how my favorite blogger, Anders constantly whines about how DOB doesn’t see things his way. Nobody can pull the woe-is-me card like my girl Anders. I just love how Anders begs for acceptance with every post. Go Anders, go!

By DAP

August 29, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this

the only reason tavaras is here is so that hopefully blaine boyer will be able to pitch next year.

By Random

August 29, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this

Shaun: “Random, you aren’t going to win with the let’s-call-up-every-youngster-with-potential crowd. Sorry to break it to you.”

Good point. I’ll make a note of it.

But I’m already pretty much used to not winning with the every-other-person-who-posts-here crowd — I think I can weather it.

(-;

ncscoots: “Anderson’s historical secondary average is poor.”

What do you mean by “secondary average”?

By MGL

August 29, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this

There is no DL for the offseason, therefore, anyone on the 60 day DL at the end of the season has to go back on the 40 man to be protected.

The Braves 40 man roster is right now at 43, including Smoltz, Moylan, and Hudson on the 60 day DL. So there already are 3 that will have to be dropped by the end of November. To add more minor league players just so that a few people can see them makes no sense. It will come back to bite.

By DAP

August 29, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

anders keep in mind that the alternative to yunel would have been to keep edgar renteria, who hasnt played as well as yunel this year. i dont know what was in your mind, but i imagine (and this is how i understood it) that in the offseason when you were saying that relying on escobar was risky, you were thinking he might tank, which he didnt. he has had an ok year. not great, but still ok. escobar proved to me that he could be an everyday SS and help win some games.

By Anders

August 29, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this

As for all those on here clamoring for the Braves to bring everybody up on September 1 including that 9 year old kid from New Jersey who throws to hard for little league I’m thinking the Braves 12 games left with the Phillies and Mets have something to do with their reluctance. Bobby Cox is a class guy who has tremendous respect for the game and he’s not gonna be running these neophytes out there against teams that are in the pennant race. So why bring them up for the 4 or 5 games they might actually get in?

By Anders

August 29, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

I am the smartest man alive

By hydee

August 29, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

We are getting fresh young arms.

Wasn’t Matt DiSalvo a fresh young arm? Just because they are young, does not mean they will be any good.

By ncscoots

August 29, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this

Shaun, fact is, I’m not an Anderson-hater or anything of the sort. Certainly, the kid has some tools, and there’s no question about his ability to go get the ball (though I think Schafer has the edge on reading the ball off the bat).

I just think that many here see the Braves’ lack of speed and then become enamored of a prospect who has it…regardless of whether his other skills will allow said prospect to fully utilize the one skill he has in abundance.

BTW, I wouldn’t expect that .340 minor league OBP to rise dramatically against better pitching, and that’s not high enough for a leadoff guy. And where else would you hit Anderson? His lack of other offensive skills mitigate against hitting him anywhere else, except 8.

By Anders

August 29, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this

DAP

I didn’t mean Escobar would tank at all. Plus the trade was a good one. I just meant he wasn’t going to have the Ernie Banks year many on here predicted. There was talk of 25+ HR’s .300 etc.. All I said was it’s a hard game day in and day out. Even more so for a shortstop who has a lot of responsibility on the field. I saw Reyes go through it and to some degree he still is.

The exception to the rule as much as I hate to admit it is Jeter. Guy played like a 10 year vet from day 1.

As for Escobar, I think he’s definetly one of the guys they’ll build around.

By Random

August 29, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this

MGL: “There is no DL for the offseason, therefore, anyone on the 60 day DL at the end of the season has to go back on the 40 man to be protected.”

Good point — I might actually have known that once, but I obviously forgot. Thanks.

Rest of your comment is spot on, as well. Maybe TommyP will accept that reasoning.

As if.

“McFanders”!!! Rotuffle-meow!!! (ROTFLMAO!!!)

By Renegator

August 29, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this

Carroll has a new blog up