Braves

By Lew

September 5, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

From the other Blog-Chipper has 395 AB to this point. He has walked 76 times and has 4 Sacrifice Flies. That right there comes to 475 PA. He will make 502 without breaking a sweat-unless he receives a season ending injury. How long do you seriously think it will take him to add another 27 PA in the 21 remaining games?

By Thrillhouse44

September 5, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this

The only thing better than a new blog on Friday is a new FREE blog on Friday. Thanks DOB!

And this season’s downfall started with ‘roo nads - not the blue unis. I agree though; time to switch back to just wearing the standard uniforms. If they want a throwback, throw them back to the ‘91 Braves unis for a little good luck.

By VaBravesfan

September 5, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

Like the red shirts, hate the blue ones. BTW, I will be at Disney in March. Would love to see the Braves during spring training. Any tips from anyone?

By mbatl

September 5, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

DOB, very glad to see the shout-out to KJ. No one is “untouchable” on a losing team, but I’d have to get a lot in exchange to give him up.

Prado is a nice player; not great with the glove, but adequate. However, how long do we expect him to maintain a .381 BABIP, and a 500+ SLG pct while hitting a home run every 80 ab’s? Martin would settle in as a .280/.350/380 hitter over the course of a full season. KJ has much more potential as a hitter.

By Thrillhouse44

September 5, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this

Good song - I had never heard of ole Harvey. Seems like something that could happen to these Braves.

By cabravesfan

September 5, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this

I know i am in the vast minority on this (and will probably get all kinds of crap) but I kinda like the blue unis…I much prefer them to the horrid red ones.

By McFann ;ิ;

September 5, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this

Uh-oh…Am I gonna lose all credibility because I wear a red jersey?

: >

By Lee in S GA

September 5, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this

DOB -

Agree with you about the A’s in the 70’s. Oakland was the team back then.

By Big Easy

September 5, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this

Well, I love the blue unis, I truly do. And, after not really liking them much, the red ones have grown on me. But, yeah, it is sort of depressing to see baseball teams driven by marketing and merchandising. And the Braves home whites and road grays are among the most classic and classy unis in the league.

And here’s to the hope that Chipper gets red-hot and tears it up the rest of the way, and gets that stinkin’ batting title!

~E~

By nfieldr

September 5, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this

I had a chance to get to know Lew Burdette at a couple of Braves fantasy camps in the early 90’s. Once, I ask him about this game and one of his comments has stuck with me. He said, “you know… I pitched a pretty good game that day too”. How true. If you’re interested, here’s a link to the boxscore.

By MGL

September 5, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this

VaBravesFan - Get your tickets early if you want good seats at ST. They sell quickly.

By nfieldr

September 5, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this

Guess I’m in the minority… I hate the red jerseys (always have), but really like the Blues, especially the blue hat. Seems “old school” to me.

By Novice Ned

September 5, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this

Whichever uniform drives Bobby Cox into retirement, is the uniform they should start wearing in the last week of this season. No, it’s not his fault. Not by a long shot. But there is no reason to think that we can truly re-build, including changing the culture, with Cox around. Rays seemingly found a good manager. Marlins did too. While I may not know their names, here’s guessing that there is a bench coach ready for a promotion and someone who can grow with this team. If it takes a dark blue uniform with lavender diagonal stripes to get Cox to stay home, then get the tailor in Midtown to start stitching those bad boys together. We need some Change that we can believe in.

By Brian

September 5, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this

I don’t think baseball players are dumb so them being supersticious has something to it. I’m glad DOB posted this blog cause I’ve thought this all year. Being kinda supersticious on alot of things myself, I beleive it’s past time for the Braves to get back to the real look. That retarded cow thing needs to be blown up!! It’s all very bad luck!!

By flange1

September 5, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Thanks for the new blog!

I think the last blog was a great exploration of potential ideas for the Braves for 2009.

To me the one thing that sticks out is most of us realize that there will be some trades that happen and some players that we like might get traded.

As DOB states in the prelude of the blog, KJ’s numbers are looking better and better, heck he has always been one of my favorite players! But it might help the team to trade KJ and put Prado at 2B.

It also might help the team to trade Frenchy or Jo Jo or even one of the kids that we all can’t wait to see.

We will have to wait and see what FW has up his sleeve.

By McFann ;ิ;

September 5, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this

BTW—Thanks for the new blog, Chief! Funny song, too…Kinda sad, though. Poor Harvey.

By JC from UT

September 5, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this

Have to agree whole heatedly about the uniforms. You will never see the yankees with any alternate unis. I was always some what “proud” that my team did not sell out to the trend or play follow the leader. It is kind of like how it irritates me that other teams fans copy the Cubs fans when throwing back oppposing HR balls. People need to stop copying and be their own person with their own traditions.

By JC from UT

September 5, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this

Have to agree whole heatedly about the uniforms. You will never see the yankees with any alternate unis. I was always some what “proud” that my team did not sell out to the trend or play follow the leader. It is kind of like how it irritates me that other teams fans copy the Cubs fans when throwing back oppposing HR balls. People need to stop copying and be their own person with their own traditions.

By Jon F.

September 5, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this

I too like the blue jerseys and hats, especially the hats. All blue is a much cleaner look than blue and red. The Braves have had basically the same uniforms since 1987. It’s not like they are changing every few years. Plus, isn’t the blue hat the same as that used in the 1960s with the pinstripes? Oh well. When the season is over and you’re fiighting to stay out of the cellar, this is what us fans talk about.

By cabravesfan

September 5, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this

I was also glad to see DOB giving props to Kelly- I have always liked him and think he is a good ball palyer. He may not be flashy or have that outgoing personality but I will take solid, if not spectacular, numbers over flash any day.

By Chop Chop

September 5, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this

I don’t mean to channel Andy Rooney here, but…

Have you ever noticed how Kelly Johnson fields better when he’s on a hot streak with the bat?

I really think he’s a guy who takes his poor hitting into the field with him. I could go do the statwork to prove, or disprove, my theory. However, I’m lazy. I’ll let someone else do it.

(I have no lust for the MVB. I prefer to stick and move. My brain hurts if I blog here too much.)

By Chop Chop

September 5, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this

I think the Braves should go with the blue hats permanently. They’ve had the current hats long enough. Time to get all Braves fans to buy a new hat.

I vote “no” to Sunday red.

The Braves ain’t exactly Tiger Woods.

By Couch Tater

September 5, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this

Those retro Boston Braves uni’s they wore in Boston this year would sell.

By McFann ;ิ;

September 5, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this

JC from UT—

I hate it when our fans throw HR balls back!

But when a Braves fan threw an Austin Kearns home run ball back onto the field was great! It was Kearns’ 100th career HR, so he wanted the ball anyway! Haha! That fan coulda gotten something for that ball—but no. He chose to be “cool” and threw it back!

Goodness and justice triumphed that night—except the Braves lost 15-6…

By Macon Countyline

September 5, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

Yes, the classic unis should be worn at all times.

By Tim

September 5, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this

I like the blue shirts and caps. I have always wanted the Bravos to go back to those caps like the ones from the 80s. Yes I know the Braves were a laughing stock in the 80s but the uniforms were great.

I have NEVER liked the red jerseys. They need to do away with those. Also put Braves across the front of the blue jerseys that way they can wear them at home too.

By Tim

September 5, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this

Also about Kelly Johnson. Sorry I just think the guy is too inconsisent. I mean why doesn’t he kill the ball all the time like he is right now. Also how in the world can a guy whose is suppose to be a line drive hitter and contact hitter have MORE strikeouts than Francoeur?

By David O'Brien

September 5, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this

On a positive note, the interminable road work on the downtown connector is finally nearing completion, actually ahead of schedule. Only some painting of traffic lines tonight, so not supposed to be any huge traffic like the ones on recent weekend nights. (Still, you folks should get a motorcycle — I just cruised down the HOV land at 75-80 mph almost the entire way from home near the Clairmont exit off I-85 to the ballpark, with only a slowdown near Atlantic Station. Made it in 20 minutes at 3:30 on a Friday afternoon. Thank you, person who decided that motorcyclists could use HOV lanes.)

By cooper

September 5, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this

DOB - The props to KJ are nice (and fair given his recent performance) but weren’t you pointing out earlier in the season (in this blog) that KJ was stinking it up and perhaps 2B should be an area to upgrade this off season?

Now KJ has played a bit better and improved his averages so all of the sudden he is a keeper?

He clearly is not a top 5 problem but he is a top 10 problem. He is too streaky and a defensive liability in the infield.

Just b/c he ranks “ok” compared to his peers doesn’t mean we shouldn’t look upgrade if the option presents itself.

We have too many good enough, not too shabby guys starting every day. Some of them have to go and if KJ is one who nets more then he may draw the short straw.

KJ will go dark offensively for weeks at a time and then go on stretches where he boots easy plays.

He is not the type of consistent up the middle guy you need if you have the where-with-all to upgrade.

He is not an offensive power house nor is he a gold glove 2B. He needs to be one or ideal both. I don’t see him becoming either. He will tease you offensively but only tease.

I don’t know that Prado is the answer but I would not mind seeing Prado and Lilli given a fair shot at auditioning for 2B this spring.

Heck if I had my druthers I would move Escobar to 2B and sign Furcal to a 3yr year deal at SS especially if I come up empty in the OF FA market and need improve my team in some reasonable way.

He is a great kid and show flashes of being good but only flashes.

We need more “sure things” more consistency and more impact players on this team.

Wren may have to make concessions on where he can upgrade putting players like KJ and JF for that matter on the bubble.

By David O'Brien

September 5, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this

Tim, I do agree about Kelly’s inconsistency. if he could clean that up a bit, and put up the same end-result numbers while not going through month-long slumps, he’d have a lot less detractors….

Anyone think the Fleet Foxes sound more like My Morning Jacket these days than My Morning Jacket does? Just playing the Foxes CD this morning and thought about that (many of you are now going, who the hell are the Fleet Foxes and My Morning Jacket, to which those of us who know them can only say, you should give them both a try. If you dug The Band back in the day, you’ll like Fleet Foxes, I’m pretty certain.)

By Ron Roberts

September 5, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this

I’m with ya, DOB on the red home alts, but I actually like the blue road tops w/the solid navy caps. The only qualm I have is the jersey number on the back. Navy on navy with white trim is just odd-looking. Those numbers should be red, like the jerseys they often wear in spring training.

I don’t think the navy tops on the road stray far from the classic look the Braves have provided us over the years.

Besides, the Marlins and Diamondbacks won World Series in less-appealing uniforms, anyhow. And the Cubs have toyed with their look time and again; they’ve worn solid blue tops with the “C” logo with a Cub-head embedded, and they’ve worn the all-grays with “Chicago” print across the chest, in recent years, too. Even the mighty Sawx have gone with the red tops at home here and there.

Agree, totally, though, on those hideous neon-red home alts. Gotta go.

By john

September 5, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

I agree about the Fleet Foxes. Sound almost too much like MMJ. They played at the Drunken Unicorn over the 4th, i’d bet they will be back around in the near future at the Earl.

By George

September 5, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this

As Skip Caray once said: ” I am a white at home and grey on the road guy.

With the way Baseball is going we will soon see advertisments on the hats; shirts and pants…..NASCAR time.

By Brian

September 5, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this

I think the Braves should get back to white at home and grey on the road.

PERIOD.

Forget the Sunday reds. They’re awful.

By knowitall

September 5, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this

I’ve always disliked the red home jersey. I say they replace it with the blue jersey and call it a day.

By Philliesuk

September 5, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this

The red uniforms are terrible. I’ve always hated them. The blue jerseys actually are a nice look.

Don’t get rid of the blue jerseys, but maybe only wear them once in a while.

I’m not sure why DOB went on a tirade, since it’s not like the Braves change their jerseys every year. The classic ones are the best, but it’s okay for a team with tradition to change their jerseys every now and then. Ever heard of the Cubs?

By kkjr

September 5, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this

The season’s over, who gives a damn what the Braves wear?

By BravesLover

September 5, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this

Chipper doesn’t quite get it yet. The idea is not to play “hard” but to play smart I have no doubt the Braves are trying to play “hard” but “hard” is not hustle. “Hard” is running around like a player with his head cut off. i.e. not cutting a corner at third and being thrown out at the plate, throwing to the wrong base, trying to steal at the wrong time, air mailing the ball from right to the backstop, not backing up a play, the list could go on and on. Again “hard” is neither hustle nor playing the game right EVERY play. A question for Chipper…at the beginning of the year when reporters asked him about hitting over .400 he said he had gotten smarter and that he knew the pitchers in the league and what they were going to throw him in different situations. Did he get dumber since the All Star break? He’s swinging at pitches he would have scoffed at the beginning of the season. When Chipper gets to Cooperstown I bet in his speech he will say “…my only reqret about playing the game of baseball is that I didn’t play hard every inning of every game”. There’s no going back, Chipper. Finish the drill. WIN THE DAMN BATTING TITLE!

By Robert S

September 5, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this

Maybe if there’s any uniform the Braves could rid themselves of, it’s the current home-road tomahawk unis they’ve sported since 1987, source of the oldest, silliest, worn-out routine in baseball - the tomahawk chop and chant, which got old and passe around, say, 1996.

The way the current Braves are playing, I’d just as soon clobber them over the head with a tomahawk than do the chop.

That’s not suggesting that they go back to the red pinstripe unis of the late-70’s or the powder blues of the 80’s. I quite like the simple tomahawk-less white home uni’s and simple road grays of the mid-60’s with the blue cap. And don’t forget the “laughing Brave” logo on the sleeve, if you remember those, not to be confused with the Indians’ Chief Wahoo.

By bravos2249

September 5, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this

ACTUALLY

Showenweis or Heilmen hit Chipper with a pitch in that 4 game sweep so he has 476 PA. Which makes it even easier…lol

By Rick

September 5, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this

Lew Burdette of the Braves pitched against Harvey Haddix in that ( almost ) perfect game. He went all 13 innings, gave up 12 hits but no runs and was the winning pitcher .

Aftr the game , he called Haddix on the phone in the Pirate clubhouse and said ” Harvey , you should know better than to let a team bunch their hits like that ! “

By Rotorob in KY

September 5, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this

On uniforms I’m in the LOVE the blue hats, ok with the blue jerseys and HATE the red ones camp.

As for KJ, I do like him, but I think he is one of the more valuable trade pieces that we have. Pluse we do have a compareable replacement for him (Prado).

By doug

September 5, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this

I don’t like the Red either.

DOB, have you ever asked any of the players about the unis? Wouldn’t the Red ones be hotter on Sunday day games (since it’s a dark color vs the white)? I’ve heard this question asked before, but never heard the answer … Can they wear the Red ones on the road? Is it allowed, or do they need some kind of approval from MLB?

Thanks for the blog, you do a great job keeping us informed. Can’t wait till February, when we can start our lists of favorites classic rock guitarists again. Now that’s some good bloggin there.

By jrjags

September 5, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this

DOB,

I’m looking to buy my first motorcycle in the spring. Do you have any suggestions as to what brand, size, etc.?

By IVSPORT

September 5, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this

I agree that a team should just have a home, road and alternate and THAT’S IT. Lidz has every color hat you could want, whether you’ve got loud taste or you just want to match ever outfit. The Braves could still sell those in the team store and still rake in the few (million) bucks that I’m sure they’re desperate for. Just keep the new unis and hats OFF THE FIELD.

By LAWMAN

September 5, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this

Has anyone noticed the “GOO GONE” product? I have some, could the Braves find it useful?

By Einstein

September 5, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this

Thanks DOB for a good article. Keep reporting it as it is and don’t let the “suits” make you temper your constructive criticism. Our Braves’ problem is not uniforms, but reality. JS, BC, TP, Glavine, Smoltz, Chipper, etal are still trying to play the game as they did 10 years ago. Get real! Doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results is insanity. My suggestion would be to graciously retire and celebrate JS, BC, TP, Smoltz, Glavine, and trade Chipper and jettison Hampton. Tell the fans the truth…we suck, and will continue to for the next 2+ years; however, we’re going to rebuild. By that time Liberty will have sold the team to Arthur Blank and we just might be conpetitive. It took us 7 years to get to this point and will take 2 or 3 to get back. First priority is our farm system. Who was the last starting pitcher we developed? Other than McCann, who have we developed for the rest of the team…Frenchy? No more rent-a-players. Only in Atlanta would the fans (and the media) tolerate this crap for so long. Peace.

By Christy

September 5, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

McFann - no issues with your wearing red with me. Red is Power color, which the Braves could use a little more of. I’m all for the Red uniforms…

By Efrim

September 5, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

Yes, Kelly Johnson is still a very good baseball player. He can be on the table this offseason, but other than McCann, Chipper and Jurrjens, who isn’t? When you lose 90 games(and I know their run differential doesn’t explain this), you need to at least explore switching things up, right?

And on a side note, the Greinke/Cain stuff is probably a reach. Really think about what this team would have to give up to get one of them?(there is talk of the Brewers trading Prince Fielder straight up for Matt Cain-Stark article) Maybe they can afford to after 2009, but right now, this team needs more than just a young starter to pair with Jurrjens. And I’m not sure that the price will be to the Braves liking. You would probably have to give up Johnson, Francoeur and a top pitching prospect(Hanson), at least.

By Steve from OH

September 5, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this

I like the blue unis….

By 96,sc

September 5, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this

Keep the blue uni’s and hat. I would prefer to do away with the old gray and boring and the too loud red.

By hoho

September 5, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this

I would like the blue unis better if there were no red in them at all. I could take or leave the sunday red unis. i think a total of 3 unis in the season is fine, with a rare throw back in there too.

Thanks for all of the extra work DOB and CR- makes it all a bit more fun, especially this season.

go braves, tonight and always!

By BT

September 5, 2008 5:21 PM | Link to this

DOB

Who do you see as “affordable” for the Braves in left field and as starters. Everyone is throwing names out but without giving up the farm who can we get?

By JEB

September 5, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this

The Blue uniforms are a great look! But.. they cursed that blue uniform by changing the tomahawk!

They should have kept the red tomahawk on it and it would have really been a sharp jersey! That is the curse of the blue uni! Put the TRUE tomahawk on it - it will change everything!

Wear the blue caps on the road - and the traditional hats at home.

That’s my piece to this discussion.

By Jake

September 5, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this

I like the blue jersey’s. They are very clean looking and simple. I’m not for the hat game that they have been playing with the road jersey’s. I know they were just trying to mix it up for some luck but I like the blue jersey’s with the blue hats. They could do away with the Sunday Reds. I would prefer it if they just stuck to the white jersey’s at home. It would be nice though to have a few throwback games at home where they could wear the old uni’s like they did for that one Chicago game.

By David O'Brien

September 5, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this

Escobar’s back in the lineup today, batting fifth. Josh leading off again, followed by KJ, Chipper, Mac. After Escobar it’s Kotchman hitting sixth, Francoeur, BJones and JJ….

HoHo, Jake, others: I’m with you on the blue over the red, if they were going to keep just one. Much better look. And I also like the throwbacks now and then. In fact, I prefer most teams’ throwback uniforms to their current ones (though not the traditional-looking uniforms that the teams I listed in the initial blog wear; those teams all have classic, clean looks).

By Urban Legend

September 5, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this

I love the blue jersey’s and the old school jersey’s that Hank Aaron and company used to wear. The red jerseys are garbage, they remind me of the Falcons.

By McFann ;ิ;

September 5, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this

Christy—

Yeah, they could use more power…And the red jerseys don’t look quite as weird in person. They do look a little orange on TV…

Jake—

I’d liked those throwbacks they wore in that Chicago game! Those were sweet!

By Spider29

September 5, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this

I do not like the red or the blue tops. The Braves should wear white at home and grey on the road. If they want to do something different, wear the traditional cap at home and the blue one on the road. That is enough difference.

By David O'Brien

September 5, 2008 5:55 PM | Link to this

Doug, the red (and the white) home unis are made of a light, high-tech fabric and not hot like most of the uniforms were up until a couple years ago.

I think they could wear the reds on the road, but would have to do so in deference to the home team and whatever they were wearing.

Most of the players love the blue uniforms. I don’t get the same sense about the red ones. Not that they hate them or anything, but didn’t hear the kind or strong reviews they gave the blue unis. They liked the blue tops and caps so much, they kept wearing them even after they lost so many games and seemingly had a new injury every time they wore them early on.

By David O'Brien

September 5, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this

Cooper, I was just trying to put the Kelly situation in perspective, simply asking whether he was a serious problem on a team that has several holes to fill.

I was critical of him not long ago, and still am critical of his maddening inconsistency. Just pointing out that in the end, his overall numbers are pretty decent and actually quite good in several areas. Decide for yourself what that means. I talked to him today, just a half-hour ago, and asked him if he’d agree inconsistency is a concern.

He said yes, without question, that he’s had two good months (if this one continues like it’s begun) and four mediocre months. He knows it, and said he’s still figuring out things, what kind of hitter he can be, and that he has a lot of room for improvement. He’s confident he will keep improving, which he says is the big thing, that as long as you still believe you’re getting better, you’re in a good situation.

By Boo Boo

September 5, 2008 6:02 PM | Link to this

If the Braves do decide to keep the all-blue uniform tops (or the all red ones), I suggest they wear those powder blue caps with them, the ones with the lower case “a” (from the Dale Murphy era) in front. And, for style points, I recommend a frilly pink tutu worn over some stylish navy sliding shorts. Naturally, those would only match white “ghost” socks, with pretty pink fluff balls on the back. If they want to make a real “LOSER!!!” statement, then they should go all out. I prefer they lose in style, rather than simply lose every time they wear a loser uniform.

By Spider29

September 5, 2008 6:07 PM | Link to this

DOB, I may have missed it but what did you think of James Parr? I didn’t see it but it sounded like he was pretty impressive.

By David O'Brien

September 5, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this

I think it’s a safe bet that Chipper Jones is in the lineup tomorrow: He’s 8-for-11 with two homers against Nats starter Tim Redding.

By Jamie in Richmond

September 5, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this

Personally, I like the blue jerseys cand caps much better than thew red jerseys. While I realize this blog is written tongue in cheek, unfortunately it will inspire a few crazies who actually believe in thyis sort of thing.

By Bobby's Cox

September 5, 2008 6:24 PM | Link to this

I agree that KJ will only continue to tease us with his bat. I view him a little lackadaisical, much like LaRoched was.

Therefor, I don’t see him cleaning up his inconsistency that DOB mentions would make him an ideal player. His range is still inadequate at 2nd base, and that won’t get better with age.

KJ in a way is a lot like Tex. Puts up good numbers, but has you scratching your head where those numbers came to fathom, much to the beat of Arod’s drum in NY. I don’t see him improving much…i really don’t. This lineup’s problem has been as will be lack of consistency until the likes of KJ are gone or improve.

Cleveland needs a 2nd baseman…they have as good of production from their 2nd basemen as we have from our outfielders. If we could get an Aaron Laffey for KJ deal done, that would work for both sides. Laffey could be next years Jurrjens.

By Jamie in Richmond

September 5, 2008 6:28 PM | Link to this

David OBrien

Re: “Is is that bad?”

My answer is yes. Pithy enough for everybody? :)

I’d be more than happy to see Martin get a shot at his job next year.

By David O'Brien

September 5, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this

Spider, yes he was impressive. Stuff isn’t overwhelming at all, but he’s got a bit of deception in the delivery and a good breaking ball (curve) and decent changeup. He was nervous early and it showed, but he got over that and settled in, starting pounding strike zone the way he has in the minors. He usually throws more strikes than he did last night, from what I’m told.

I think he could compete for a spot at back of rotation in spring, but there will be plenty of competition.

Good debut, no doubt. But remember how impressive Kyle Davies was in his debut on a cold, wet night at Fenway? And how impressive Charlie Morton was in his debut at Anaheim?

Let’s see a few more starts and then draw some conclusions, perhaps.

By the way, Charlie is being shut down for 10 days, skipping a start, because of a problem in his scapula, or beneath it. Not a shoulder problem, but something they think might be from lack of strength, from losing a lot of weight since spring and pitching lot of innings. He’s had a couple of cortisone shots (they hadn’t disclosed that, but he told me today) since July.

Doesn’t sound like anything major, no real serious concern shown by either him or Braves. But he needs to get stronger and put on weight this offseason, and do specific exercises to strengthen his arm and upper body, stuff he’s not done in past.

By ncscoots

September 5, 2008 6:56 PM | Link to this

He knows it, and said he’s still figuring out things, what kind of hitter he can be

And therein lies the rub, a fact that few fans or bloggers ever give much thought. Instead, many here expect young players to emerge from their minor league cocoons as full-blown Pujols-ian butterflies, as full-flight Webb-ian eagles instead of nestlings.

There’s no substitute for experience. None. And 1000/1500 AB or 50 starts doesn’t qualify…that’s just OJT. An apprenticeship. Often bloody. But if players such as Johnson, Francoeur, Morton, Reyes have the strength of will to endure such an apprenticeship, their talent will out. And their ability to shorten slumps, become more consistent, play to their abilities, or whatever your notion of the premise, is heightened simply BECAUSE they’ve seen The Dark Side before in their careers, and knowledge is power.

But, for too many fans, that thought isn’t even a glimmer or a twinkle, because their eye sees only the last game, or last AB, or last pitch. Clamoring for even younger, even more inexperienced players to “take over”. And ready to savage those same favorites a month later at the first sign of an oh-fer or a three-and-two-thirds.

I have no idea if the younger players on the Braves squad will be able to realize their talent. I DO know that the possibility exists…and that fact seems to have been missed (or dismissed) by many posters here.

By bigtrain

September 5, 2008 7:05 PM | Link to this

Re: Uniforms:

White at home, gray on the road.

I’ll go further - I’d like to see the word “Atlanta” replaced on the road unis with the word “Braves”. Further, I’d like to see the uniform number on the front, as was the case with the old Milwaukee Braves.

By Supes

September 5, 2008 7:05 PM | Link to this

DOB

I like the red alternative jerseys. I even bought one (which I have never done before, bought a baseball jersey) b/c I liked them so muuch. Of course it had to be a Chipper Jones one! Can’t go wrong with the future HOF right there.

Don’t care at all for the road blue/navy jerseys and caps.

About Kelly Johnson, I don’t think the problem is so much his lack of production. It’s a combination of things. Braves look to be busting at the seems with middle infielders. There is a surplus there. Kelly has good trade value. He’s a “B” level major league infielder right now. Has decent power. Hits left handed pitching well.

When you combine the surplus of infielders, with Kelly’s trade value, that has to drive the “trade talks” including his name on the blogs.

Infact, it can be considered a compliment. We all know you have to give up something of value to get something in return. So KJ in trade talks is not necessarily a bad thing.

Braves could play Lillbridge, Prado and Infante right now at 2B. Surplus. You trade from a position of strength.

By Lew

September 5, 2008 7:19 PM | Link to this

Scoots-Keep talking sense like that and I’ll be forced to bring back the Wurlitzer. Inconsistency and growing pains are par for the course-just like Reyes and Morton are going through and just like Smoltz, Maddux and Glavine went through. Sure wish more Denizens would realize it.

Supes-Dude, we have to disagree again. I like the Navy uniforms but can’t stand the red. Of course, I would look like a 280 pound tomato in the red ones. That might have something to do with it. We People of Substance should avoid red.

By Tomas

September 5, 2008 7:28 PM | Link to this

DOB, good article. The Rays do look a lot better, with those new uniforms. And I think the name Rays, is much better than devil rays, and it’s perfect timing to have the best record in the AL East where the Yankees, and Redsox play. Those Rays can be a great team for a long time, if there ownership is willing to spend a little more money to retain their stars, like Kazmir, and Schields, Upton, etc. The Willy Aybar trade has been great for them, horrible for the Braves. But after all the issues Aybar had off the field, the Braves certainly had reason to trade him.

By Tomas

September 5, 2008 7:36 PM | Link to this

I don’t know what Bobby will do, but I’m guessing he is going to stay with Kelly at second for right now, because he is hot. But if Kelly can play left field, why not use that advantage, and have both Kelly, and Prado in the lineup.

By Brian

September 5, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this

Jurrjens problem right now is his 2-seamer. That’s the pitch that setting up too many walks, the way I see it. Seems to be Morton’s problem too.

By Larvell Blanks

September 5, 2008 7:51 PM | Link to this

A-freakin’-men on the uniforms, DOB. I said the same thing on opening day. We’re not the D-Backs. White and gray, white and gray.

By David O'Brien

September 5, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this

Tomas, Kelly hasn’t even taken fly balls in left field, much played the position in a few years. So they’re not going to be abruptly moving him to left field for the last month of the season.

By Tomas

September 5, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

I don’t know about all of you, but I prefer to have Josh Anderson in the lineup than Blanco. He runs better, and hits for more power.

By McFann :ิ:

September 5, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

Silver Slugger Watch

McCann: 0-1, .295

Grove: 0-1, .293

By StingerSplash

September 5, 2008 8:00 PM | Link to this

DOB,

I’d swap the Red Sox home unis (the ones they’ve had since ditching the V-neck polyester ones during the mid to late 70s in favor of the ones similar to the 50s and 60s unis) with the Cubbies’ garb. Don’t like Chicago’s pinstripes as much as others. And you talk about a team that’s had some hideous road unis. The Cubs certainly could make Mr. Blackwell’s list from the 70s through the early 90s. The Pirates current unis aren’t bad either. Damn sight better than seeing Pops or the Cobra dressed like a giant banana. (Can you imagine what would have happened to Dock Ellis had he had to wear those unis? He would have thought he was trippin all the time.)

By David O'Brien

September 5, 2008 8:03 PM | Link to this

Great range by Kotchman, but he might’ve been better off letting Kelly field that one. Jurrjens was late getting over to cover, regardless.

By uga-brave

September 5, 2008 8:06 PM | Link to this

anyone else ever done beer can chicken on the grill?

got one going right now, great stuff.

josh anderson remind anyone else of a young steve finley? may never hit for the power finley did but very similar stances at the plate.

DOB, the blog has been real good yesterday and today.

mcfaann, i may be late to the party but i agree on your ROY award.

you have a great attitude and never get get negative. very healthy way to look at life.

rememeber thirsty horse? clip clop clip clop.

i bet even he thinks you deserve the award.

By Tomas

September 5, 2008 8:10 PM | Link to this

DOB, you have a pint right there. But there has to be a way to have both of them play. Or maybe Bobby can go with whoever is hot.

By Gettin jiggy wit it

September 5, 2008 8:13 PM | Link to this

DOB

How about Derek Lowe for 3 years and 24 million?

By Jeff321

September 5, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this

Wow, that has to be the best hit by Kotchman so far!

With that said, he did manage 107 hits for the Angels this year.

By Tomas

September 5, 2008 8:21 PM | Link to this

Chip Caray is following the family tradition, talking about hot dogs. I remeber Harry Caray during one of his broadcast in which you know, he said “If you were a hot dog, and you were alone in an Island, would you eat yourself”.

By Brian

September 5, 2008 8:32 PM | Link to this

What a difference in the Anderson and Blanco swings. Anderson is much more balanced and drives through the ball. Not trying to get too excited, we are facing Bergman, but Anderson looks like a keeper for sure!

By David O'Brien

September 5, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this

Well, Bergmann won’t have lack of run support to blame tonight, even though he’s received only 1 run. He was awful all by himself.

If he loses tonight, he’d fall to 1-10 in his last 20 games (19 starts). Folks, that’s hard to do.

By McFann :ิ:

September 5, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this

Hmm…A sac fly. Not bad. Good way to add RBI without damaging your AVG. Would like to see a hit next time up, please. (BTW, Grove is 0-2, still at .293.)

Uga-Brave—

Thank you!

Haha…Yeah, I remember Thirsty Horse! He was one of the ones that convinced me to stay…and then he left shortly thereafter.

Bases-loaded walk for Kotchman! He’s having a ni—

WAIT! Manny, no! Don’t take Bergmann out! He…it…the fireworks haven’t started yet!

Aw, shucks! That’s what a get for being cocky! When will I ever learn?

By David O'Brien

September 5, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this

Gettin’ Jiggy, I’d give that strong consideration….

Wait. Stop presses. Frenchy just drew a base-loaded walk…

By David O'Brien

September 5, 2008 8:46 PM | Link to this

Stinger, great line about trippin’ Dock Ellis…

And yes, just an oversight on my part. Definitely put Red Sox unis in that elite group of traditional beauts.

By Couch Tater

September 5, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this

The home whites look pretty good tonight.

By Tomas

September 5, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this

Good inning. A lot of productive at bats in this game.

By David O'Brien

September 5, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this

Brandon Jones reminding us how he put up 100 RBIs last season in the minors.

By McFann ;ิ;

September 5, 2008 8:59 PM | Link to this

Seven runs! Let’s do that again!

By Wayne

September 5, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this

A couple of thoughts. I think if we had 85-90 wins, nobody would give a hoot about uni colors.

KJ is NOT one of our issues for next year, but he may be one of our better trading pieces, and he could be replaced without too much heartache.

I think Derek Lowe gets more than 3 years for $24 million, due to his solid health history and consistency. Also, he is a gamer. Always seemed to be in when the Sox were in a big game. I like him.

Wouldn’t trade Hanson/Freeman/Heyward/Schafer/Rohrbough no matter what. I would rather go next year without a legit ace than give up one of those guys. Just me…

Don’t you just love a blowout game!

By flange1

September 5, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this

uga-brave,

What kind of wine goes with beer can chicken????

By David O'Brien

September 5, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this

Fourth straight multi-hit game for Johnson, who has four doubles, two triples and seven RBI in that span.

Here’s example of his inconsistency: He hit .355 with 13 extra-base hits in May, but .237 or lower in three months.

He already has more extra-base hits in September (six) than he had in August (five).

By BossLady

September 5, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this

I don’t like the baggy looking new uniforms. I like the traditional ones that were form fitting. Now they walk around like jogging suits.Some of them have their pants almost on the ground.

My choice is white at home with gray on the road.

By McFann ;ิ;

September 5, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this

Oh…my…GOSH!

.294…and .282 with RISP, and dropping fast.

HE’S 0 FOR HIS LAST FIVE WITH RISP!!

How cann you expect to win the Silver Slugger doing that? I ask you.

Thank the Lord for sac flies, I guess…

By Interested Observer

September 5, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this

I wonder if the Braves would consider keeping Anderson in CF next year and moving Shafer to a corner spot (RF?), provided he’s ready for the bigs.

By Wayne

September 5, 2008 9:10 PM | Link to this

What do you guys think it would take (years and $$) to get Adam Dunn? He has supposedly stated that winning is going to be a key component of who he goes with.

Dunn has played some first in his career, over 100 games total. With his defensive deficiencies in the outfield, does anybody know how he handles the glove at first? He is a tall dude.

If so, then Kotchman could be used in a trade for pitching help. I like a bat like Dunn behind Chipper in the lineup.

I still like Casey Blake as a moveable part. He is older, but is probably only looking for a 2-3 year deal anyway.

By StingerSplash

September 5, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this

Kelly Johnson now has 35 doubles, and could easily finish with 40-plus. I hope he’s over his bout of looking at third strikes, waiting on a perfect pitch. I also think he can become a better defensive second baseman (um, he needs to?) especially getting better at the exchange from glove to hand when turning a double play. The Braves perhaps could do better at 2B than Kelly, but I think the potential is there for Kelly to be a .280-.295 hitter with 15-20 homers, 35-45 doubles, 75-90 RBIs a year. I’ll take that.

By Couch Tater

September 5, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this

uga-brave In Tuscaloosa, we call that a war chicken. You know where you stick that beer can.

By David O'Brien

September 5, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this

Flange1, a good Boone’s Farm red, aka Strawberry Hill, would probably be a good choice.

By StingerSplash

September 5, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this

Though I’m also glad Mr. Ellis didn’t pitch for the Astros in the Nolan Ryan era with THOSE unis (and Craig Reynolds, Alan Ashby and Terry Puhl used to just kill the Braves).

How are the Rays doing it is the larger question. They have no one in their lineup hitting over .300 and only two guys hitting over .275. Their pitching has been stellar and I haven’t looked up what their average is with RISP and in late/close situations. It’s got to be like a million or something.

By Jeff321

September 5, 2008 9:23 PM | Link to this

Any update on Frenchy? That didn’t look very fun.

By uga-brave

September 5, 2008 9:25 PM | Link to this

FLANGE,

actually since i stuck a PBR up the chicken’s arse i have been drinking that fine vintage that is PABST BLUE RIBBON.

also boiled some of my own peanuts tonight.

dont get much better, beatiful day, good food and college football tomorrow.

By Tomahawkin

September 5, 2008 9:25 PM | Link to this

D.O.B. Good Article about the jerseys… I think that is some stuff ESPN Needs do do an article on…Nuff Respect for that…

There was a blog in a publication that mentioned about all the dumb rappers from Atlanta wearing the Braves hats (All different styles and colors) in their videos…What’s you take on that, personally I hate it they usually use it to make money and claim where they are from…(Just like they do in New York…)

but anyways, back to baseball, does anyone but myself want to seek Wilmy Taveras in a trade in the offseason? I believe our best teams over the last 2 decades had a definite base-stealing threat…(Deion, Grissom, Furcal…)

Go Braves, and Obama 08!

By BossLady

September 5, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this

Strawberry Hill? LOL You guys old enough to remember that? Like pony Miller

By McFann ;ิ;

September 5, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this

OK, Grove was taken out of that long game in Cinnci. He finished the night 0-2, his AVG sits at .293.

So, McCann just needs to uh, get a hit in his next AB…assuming that they keep him in the blowout.

By cooper

September 5, 2008 9:32 PM | Link to this

DOB - Thanks for responding!

I like KJ and on nights like tonight and over the past week you want to keep him.

I agree he is not too shabby and we have bigger fish to fry but I also can recall how nuts he can make you as a fan.

Again he is not a short list replacement but if the deal requires KJ to get a FOR starter or the like I would be willing to do it.

Your point is far but I still have my doubts as to who is the real KJ.

By caballo muerto

September 5, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this

Well heck, Chip. Maybe they should make a special clause for the broadcasters’ HOF. “If the candidate expresses gluttonous behavior and extreme alcohol abuse, thereby shortening said candidate’s lifespan, then the candidate should be considered for emergency admittance to the HOF.

By Brian

September 5, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this

tamohawkin- Only an Obama supporter thinks we should trade for Taveras. Not a priority since we have Anderson and Blanco. Kidding about that but GO McCAIN!!

By uga-brave

September 5, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this

boss lady,

who could forget pony miller lite’s.

actually they were always a staple in my cooler while playing golf.

dont see the pony boys anymore.

stay GOLD PONY BOY.

someone will get that, maybe DOB.

By StingerSplash

September 5, 2008 9:38 PM | Link to this

Memo to Buddy Carlyle: When you’re up by nine runs, don’t freakin walk the leadoff guy.

By Wayne

September 5, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this

Mississippi is leading 2-1 after 5. Hanson: 5 innings, 3 H, 1 ER, 6 K’s, 0 BB.

By Jeff321

September 5, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this

Strawberry Hill tastes good! Sorta like a tasty wine cooler. But, then again, I haven’t drank that stuff since about 1989. When I was about 16, eh.

By McFann :ิ:

September 5, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this

FINE! BE THAT WAY! Now you two are TIED in AVG! I hope you’re HAPPY!

Hmph…10-2! Whoo-hoo! Go Braves!

By Wayne

September 5, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this

uga: boiled peanuts! now, I am getting homesick!

Go Braves and JMac in ‘08 (we have to have equal opportunity politics T’hawkin’)

:-)

By McFann :ิ:

September 5, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this

Clint Sammons? What the?

On the plus side, now McCann can’t get out again.

By Tomahawkin

September 5, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this

Brian My man R U kidding…? Leadoff is not a Priority, Man Please! Don’t tell me you still want our offense to live and die with the longball…

Blanco is alright (even though his defense sucks), but Anderson is unproven… And since the steroid era is over teams are going to start using the speed game more (like the 80’s) so you wanna go there with McSame, Screw that…!

By Wayne

September 5, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this

Taveras is very fast, but he can’t steal first base.

Can we hope that ALL politicians will just GO! (wouldn’t that be a relief)

By Random

September 5, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this

richbrave —

Here’s the Subject and text of an email I just sent Furman Bisher:

Subject: A Suggestion (ie, Request) for a Column by Mr Bisher

Mr Bisher —

I am a participant on David O’Brien’s and Carroll Rogers’ AJC Braves beat blog (the “Braves/Man in Black” blog), generally going by the handle “Random”.

A fellow participant on the blog, who goes by “richbrave”, has what he and I and Carroll Rogers all think might be a good idea for one of your columns. I have been given the privilege of relaying his idea to you (his email’s on the fritz ). Here it is in his own words:

“O.K. Here’s the body of a request I made through the BRADLEY column. Just edit out what doesn’t fit. [It all fits, buddy. —xx]

“I posted on FURMAN BISHER’s column/blog requesting that he compose an article around the comparative strengths and weaknesses of EDDIE MATHEWSand CHIP JONES since JONES just equaled MATHEWS’ old home run record set in 1966. Why FURMAN.? He’s the last person I know of who was active in BRAVES sports journalism and an adult at that time. Therefore he’s apparantly the last person who bridges the time gap between the two.

“CARROLL ROGERS liked the idea and suggested I e-mail him, but I cannot receive e-mail because of a virus problem. If you have any contact with him could you give him a heads up about my request posted on his current column.” [5 Sep]

Thank you very much for your time and kind consideration of this request, Mr Bisher.

Please allow me also to quote from his original post containing this idea:

“CARROLL ROGERS:

“Would you prevail upon FURMAN BISHER to provide a comparative of EDDIE MATHEWS and CHIP JONES.?

“As he was active in sports journalism at the time (1966) Mathews established the record, and continues to be so into the JONES era, I think it would be revealing to read his thoughts on the two as hitters and team members.” [31 Aug]

And here is Ms Roger’s endorsement:

“RichBrave, great idea. why don’t you e-mail furman and suggest that.” [31 Aug]

Thanks again, sir, for your time and attention.

xxx xxx (“Random”)

By Supes

September 5, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this

At least Kelly’s line drive nailed that Estrada dude. Karma is a b***!

I know I’ve been nothing short of brutal with Jeff’s performance all year long, but I sincerely hope the man is OK. Nobody wants to see him injuried. Esp. if he is to be traded! Gotta stay healthy and put up big numbers in September…and hey he walked with the bases packed for the 1st time all year long. It only took him 28 tries!

DOB

Like you said, that is what the maddening thing about Kelly is…he will hit 40 doubles, and maybe even finish around .300 for the season. However the inconsistancy is too much for this “lackluster” Braves offense to bear. If he were playing on the Red Sox,I believe he’d be alright with those numbers. However, the Braves simply need more consistancy out of his AB.

Too bad Chipper didn’t get a hit tonight. He shorched that last ball, damn you Langy, couldn’t have just had a late jump!

Good to see Jair pick up the win (yes, already have this one in the W column)

For a bonus…Phils beating the Mets. Always good news!

Lew, it’s all good man. We don’t have to agree much, as long as we are supporting our ATL Braves. That’s the one thing that unites us all. I just like the red jerseys, being a huge UGA fan, red is good color!:)

BTW…Mac hitting some pop ups, is that the “getting tired” part now. He isn’t driving the ball well and is getting under it?

By Lee in S GA

September 5, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this

You still see the pony miller lite’s in south GA. I will admit very few stores carry them anymore. The only thing about them was if 3 or 4 heavy drinking buddys were around you would have to buy around 12 - 8 packs to last a while.

By uga-brave

September 5, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this

francoeur has been hit by a pitch 10 times.

he has hit 11 homeruns.

if he was not a right handed hitter, his career in atlanta might be in trouble.

think about it, blanco, anderson,b. jones, schaffer, all LH hitting outfielders.

b’macc, kj, kotchman all lefthanded hitters.

all that probably = job security for francoeur.

By StingerSplash

September 5, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this

Another Elmer Dessens sighting? Is Pete Rose now managing the Braves and betting on his team to lose? (though he claims to have never bet on the Reds to lose, he violated rule number one on the door of every major league clubhouse).

By Wayne

September 5, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this

McFann: Personal stats are fine, but a half night off is better for BH.

By StingerSplash

September 5, 2008 10:00 PM | Link to this

There’s not anything in the minor league system better than Elmer Dessens? Nothing? At all? His (hopefully) short stint with the Braves may go down as one of the absolute worst pitching performances in major league history. His ERA is 33.75. 33.75! You can eat all week at The Varsity for 33.75. You may need to have a stomach/intestinal transplant later, but hey, it’s The V.

By Wayne

September 5, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this

Elmer Dessens probably won’t get a spring training invite.

By McFann :ิ:

September 5, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this

Wayne (Welcome back!)—

I know. Believe me, I’m cool with it. I like to see him get some time off late in the game…just a tad bit frustrated, that’s all.

Supes Mac hitting some pop ups, is that the “getting tired” part now.

Oh gosh…Not the “fatigue” thing…

By The Living Section

September 5, 2008 10:07 PM | Link to this

Blue is one of the top ten hues for Spring ‘09. The palette also includes pops of vibrant color representing the optimism of the season.

A uniform should be eye-catching and reflect contemporary eco-chic design.

Kinda like a Pabst Blue Ribbon can.

By Tomahawkin

September 5, 2008 10:11 PM | Link to this

Wayne You are on point about Tavares not stealing first base…

I was looking at some of my old (early 1990’s) Fleer Ultra cards, and what caught my eye was how low the batting averages were for guys like Deion, Gant, Justice, Lemke, etc, So it leads me to my point that batting average is definitely overrated…

take a look at the stats from the 91-92 hitters, and see how low their batting averages were…

Oh yeah, Obama 08, and If you ain’t down with that I’ve got 2 words For ya…

By Brian

September 5, 2008 10:11 PM | Link to this

tomahawkin- If Anderson goes into a major slump and suddenly loses 10 steps then maybe Taveras would be a good idea. I don’t think it’s gonna happen. Yeah, Anderson doesn’t have much experience, kinda like Obama, but he looks good so far. I mean where would he play if JA or Blanco is our CF? We already have speed but we don’t have a guy with 25 HR! That’s bad

By David O'Brien

September 5, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this

Get this: Dessens actually lowered his ERA by giving up three runs in an inning. Lowered it from 31.50 to a neat 30.00 in three appearances for the Bravos.

Dude has given up eight hits, 10 runs and four walks in three innings since joining the Braves after his dominant performance in the Mexican League postseason.

Guess that league ain’t what it used to be.

By Andy

September 5, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this

Best momement of the telecast tonight: They opened up the beginning of an inning interview JJ talking about getting Skip into the hall of fame. Chip goes, “Hey JJ move a little to the left. Uhh no, just a little more, great there you go. Now those are three hall of famers right there!” Three smoking hot blondes sitting there chillin. Great stuff by Chip. Gotta love it. Chip does mentioned a little while later that this is a very good looking crowd and they showed the girls again. haha. Points for Chip tonight!

By Tomahawkin

September 5, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this

Brian You are on point about our outfielders not having no power…

I just don’t wan’t the braves F.O. to compete for Adam Dunn or Burrell in the offseason. Both are gonna command 15+ Mill per year, and since both of those two sluggers play half of their games in bandboxes (CBP, and the Great American Smallpark)

Look at the 95, and 96 braves teams… both years the offensive philosophy was built on hitting with fundamentals in mind, and not by living and dying with the longball…

By McFann :ิ:

September 5, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this

Back-to-back wins against the Nats? Sweet dreams!

Night, all!

By JC from UT

September 5, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this

Who starts in Charlie’s spot?

By bruce

September 5, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this

sweep….sweep….. would be sweet

By kirknga

September 5, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this

Good win tonight. Evebn better to take a series from the Nats.

Joe and Chip have been talking about “retooling” or “reloading” throughout the game.They said “reload” they thought. They just laid out a plan for the rotation though that did not sound comforting.

According to them, we count on having Smoltz back, and that with him and JJ at the top of the rotation, you just have to add a Glavine and sign a mid-rotation guy instead of a big-ticket starter. They say we fill in with Morton, Campillo, JoJo.

“Spend money on offense, the bench and bullpen” is how they ended. Joe said Sabathia wasn’t out of their price range, but that it’s more a policy type thing where the Braves don’t give Santana type contracts to pitchers.

Sounds scary to me; sounds like this year except minus Hampton, plus a “mid rotation guy”. Well it could be a plan, but certainly not one that is serious about contending.

By keylargo

September 5, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this

How do you DFA somebody after the rosters are expanded? I have a feeling the front office is going to be making a move in the bullpen.

By Tomas

September 5, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this

Good game. Good defense, good pitching, and good situational hitting. I was really impresed by Ridgeway, he actually pitched well. Julio will be a great addition this september by the way he is pitching, but Dessens just cannot pitch at this level. In 3.1 innings that he has pitched this season he has been hit hard, and has walked guys. If you ask me, he won’t help at all, not even eating up innings. Braves should have sign Freddy Garcia, if they wanted someone to eat up innings for almost no money.

By Supes

September 5, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this

McFann

Well the “fatigue thing” is evident. Mac isn’t driving the ball like he did a couple of months ago. Maybe DOB can ask him? (not that he’ll ever admit to it)

Good to win consecutive games, I don’t care who it is against, just get some wins. Win a series. Get something positive going to finish the year on a winning month.

By Brian

September 5, 2008 10:52 PM | Link to this

tomahawkin- Agree with you on Dunn, k’s too much, but I think Burrell would be OK and knows this divisions pitching. Someone has mentioned trading for Magglio Ordonez. That might be even better cause at his age they wouldn’t have to give up a ton. Could be wrong but I like him alot.

By David O'Brien

September 5, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this

JC from UT, it’s in Braves notebook. Jo-Jo starts Sunday and Parr stays in rotation.

By bruce

September 5, 2008 11:06 PM | Link to this

maybe it was the uniforms tonight…

By StingerSplash

September 5, 2008 11:16 PM | Link to this

As much as I admire Glavine and Smoltz for what they have done, counting on them to be key parts of the staff next year is foolhardy. As painful as it is, it’s time for the Braves to move on from those two stalwart performers. The risk/reward now, at their ages, is far, far too great. They are both older than I am and they are coming off significant injuries, and they ain’t getting any younger. See you in Cooperstown, fellas.

By Wayne

September 5, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this

brian/tomahawkin

I don’t know how this will copy over, but these are the stats for Ordonez, Dunn and Burrell. Not trying to push one guy over another, but Burrell K’s almost as much as Dunn, but doesn’t walk nearly as much. Burrell has a better average, but nothing to write home about. I think these two guys are on the same plain. Ordonez is having an off year, but is a much better average hitter, doesn’t K too much, but doesn’t walk as much either.

Ages are 20-32-35 (I could be a year off).

Each would cost close to the same money, Dunn might be more. Mags is getting a bit long in the tooth. Is it showing in his performance this year? If so, then lets steer clear of him. Don’t know.

AB  HR  RBI K's BA  OBP SLG

Dunn 437 35 88 139 240 393 524

Burrell 472 30 77 120 256 368 519

Ordonez 480 16 83 63 212 373 519

By Wayne

September 5, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this

Brian,

What would Mags cost us? Would the Tigers let us fleece them two years in a row?

By Brian

September 5, 2008 11:39 PM | Link to this

Wayne- Honestly with Mags age and a down year, I wouldn’t offer them a ton. Maybe B Jones,Lillibridge and a lower pitching prospect. If they ask for more, which is very possible, then no way. We need pitching first and then a big bat. I wouldn’t trade Morton, Reyes or a top p. prospect for a bat, if it’s possible. Save them for an ace. Reality, though, you just don’t know because teams have different needs and all want pitching.

By Tomas

September 5, 2008 11:39 PM | Link to this

kirknga, I agree with you. I think the most vulnerable spot in the Braves is the starting rotation, and bulpen. CC, is going to the Yankees specially after hearing Streinbenner’s comments. Sheets is to much of a risk with his injuries. Lowe is too old, and will not be as effective as he once was. Garland, is not a top of the rotation type of guy, he is like a #4 guy. That leaves the Braves with two options: Aj Burnett, and Ryan Dempster. Burnett is a great power arm, that will be a great addition to the top of the rotation, but he has had his hitory of injuries although he has pitched at least 20 games in the last 4 seasons, and this year he has had no problems. He has 14 quality starts of the 30 games started, and 16 wins with a 4.47ERA caused by 5 or 6 bad starts, and he has a career ERA is 3.86, and he will be 32 next year. Dempster has been absolutely awesome for the cubbies this year, and has had no trouble at all going back to the starting role, but I heard he wants to stay with the Cubs and has a good relationship with the owner, but history has proven that money is the mst important thing.

Smoltz, and Glavine cannot be penciled in, so Wren should think of them as retired players and not count on them. Hampton is proving he can stay healthy and competitive, and will not command a lot of money why not sign him to be the #3 starter. The rotation would be FA pitcher, JJ, Hampton, Campillo, (Morton, Parr, or Reyes). If Smoltz, and Glavine comeback great you have a better team but after this year I hope Wren has learned the lesson.

After the offseason priority has been solved, you can use someone like Kelly Johnson as a trade bait to get a power bat.

That is the more logical way of thinking I can think of. But who knows what might happen.

By Tomahawkin

September 5, 2008 11:46 PM | Link to this

To All that responded to me…

I like The Idea of Maggs Ordonez in the “A”…I think a player of his cut loose personality is what the braves need…

And everyone knows when Maggs is on point he can be a good #3 hitter but what happens to Chipper…

Well Maybe Maggs his Fourth…sandwiched between Chipper and B-Macc…

Gotta Go, Its Party time for Tomahawkin…

By fastasballs

September 5, 2008 11:50 PM | Link to this

Mississippi just took game two of the Southern League playoffs. Hanson went 7 innings, 2 ER & 9 K’s.

Rohrbough pitched 6 innings of shutout ball as Myrtle Beach won their game as well.

It’s good to have so many of the top prospects pitching in pressure situations & having good results.

By uga-brave

September 6, 2008 12:02 AM | Link to this

beer can chicken, corn on the cob, vidallia onion.

time to move on to some nice single malt, and a dunhill.

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 12:15 AM | Link to this

Fastasballs, I’ve got a feeling Hanson will make a serious run at a rotation spot in the spring. Really do.

By TheAntiMe

September 6, 2008 12:29 AM | Link to this

I know people will think I’m crazy but I kind of liked those old Braves uni’s from the ‘70’s. You know, the one’s with the feather on the sleeves like Hank Aaron was wearing when he hit #715.

Back in those days they had a TV black-out for the home games so pretty much the only one’s you got to see on TV were the blue road jerseys. IMHO, those uni’s surely beat those powder-puff blue jerseys that The Braves went to a little later.

Oh yeah, it’s kind of encouraging to see that Elmer Dessens has his ERA down to an even 30.00 now. Go get ‘em, tiger!

By uga-brave

September 6, 2008 12:56 AM | Link to this

watching baseball tonight, hard to really believe that francoeur is really this bad.

example # 1 mark reynolds is hitting .240 but has 27, and 92 rbi.

example #2 rick ankiel in 130 less at bats then francoeur is hitting .260, 26, and 75 rbi.

example #3 jason werth, for some of you braves only fans, .275, 21, 56 rbi. 14 stolen bases. 200 less at bats than the golden boy.

last year i said cory hart would be a star this year. he made the all star team.

this year, jason werth is going to be a stud next year.

phiily aint gonna offer burrel.

my frenchy point is this. werth only gets 330 at bats, ankiel 430, but our boy the french gets 520.

he cant hit for power, average, or speed.

he would not be on 80 % of the teams in the national league.

this is not a slump.

note DOB’S reference of kelly getting hot or cold.

fancoeur has terrible mechanics. pretty hard to cure. couple that with no plate discipline and no speed, not a great recipe for a right fielder.

By BA

September 6, 2008 1:03 AM | Link to this

Hanson could certainly make a run this spring. What of Medlen? Redmond? Is it going to be a crazy National’s camp with forty pitchers? After this year, I’d say anything is up for grabs after Jurrjens and the great Mexican Maddux. Bullpen, too. It’s going to be a good one, this spring.

But spring can be misleading. See Resop.

By BA

September 6, 2008 1:10 AM | Link to this

TheAntiMe, I’m with you- 715 models all the way. A jewel in the rough of seventies unis. The (2008) blue are smooth, DOB. But you can’t just eliminate those road greys either.

Superb blog today. Trash all the alternates if they caused this trainwreck season. Don’t rule it out- the “baseball gods” are fickle.

By uga-brave

September 6, 2008 1:14 AM | Link to this

think it blows being a braves fan.

think about this, might need DOB’S or bravehearts help but i think the cardinals just blew their 31’st save opportunity.

now that could not be THE SUPER GENIUS TONY LARUSSA’S FAULT. CMON coach.

COACH, you ever watched the BAD NEWS BEARS?

coach, not trying to be disparaging, but i see you as the yankees coach (the late vic morrow)

my point is your so called hero, larussa and leyland, who by the way are great friends both did not manage their team up.

in fact i believe the insecure, coffee addicted, chain smoking leyland, is somewhat a creation of the media,

comments DOB, you covered him.

By kirknga

September 6, 2008 1:15 AM | Link to this

Tomas, I agree with you. I was a bit surprised that Joe and Chip approached the rotation with Smoltz and Glavine. If you’re going to go that way, then I believe it should be as DOB mentioned awhile back when he cautioned to think of them as extra.

I know I continue to go on and on about Sabathia, but I know it would be a major surprise for the Braves to land him, I would just be happy if they at least tried.

I think Hampton will be back, and I see no really baseball reason he shouldn’t be if healthy.I still think Duchscherer is a good target. He’s 30 and has some hip issues at present, but I could get excited about adding him and say and Burnett.

I’m still betting it will be Dunn or Ibanez in LF next season.

By MiamiBchBravesFan

September 6, 2008 1:21 AM | Link to this

Because a 30.00 ERA is downright cartoonish, Dessen’s new nickname should be “Elmer Dudd.”

Is it just me, or does the lack of an August deadline trade mean that the Bravos are thinking of re-signing Mike Hampton. Considering the cost of top-tiered free agents (Sabathia, Sheets, et. al.) and their risk, would Hampton give the Braves a three-year injury discount?

Twenty pounds dropped since spring training and sharp pains in his back/rib area? Charlie, get yourself checked beyond a muscle and bone look-over; we’ll pray for the very best.

Glavine as a fifth starter? Smoltz in the bullpen? Can Hudson come back late next year? Re-sign Hampton? Can Anthony Lerew win a rotation spot? Will Moylan and Soriano come back?

Or will Liberty Media save $$$ and give us a rotation of Jurrjens-Reyes/James-Campillo/Bennett-Morton/Carlyle-Parr/Lerew?

Let’s party like it’s 1989.

By uga-brave

September 6, 2008 1:47 AM | Link to this

DOB,

going to tocco hills tommorow. the PENN STATE club goes to famous pub over there.

my wife is a PENN STATE grad. 3:30 game same time as the dawgs game.

penn state plays oregon state.

penn state packs in close to 300 people in that back bar.

advice to all of you college football fans, let your wive hang out with her friends, she will be happy.

the georgia game will be on, and you can drink all the beer you want without your spouse beeching.

she will be happy, she gets to hang out with her friends, and you get points for going with her.

on top of that she will not look crooked eyes at you if when the bar tab comes and there are 15 budweisers on it.

gotta pick your spots, right.

either way, thinking of going to ELLA GURU.

before or maybe halftime.

might ask DON about his WHITESNAKE collection.

By uga-brave

September 6, 2008 2:02 AM | Link to this

LEW,

i have never earned a wurlitzer.

what do you think about a stafford, knowshon painting?

that could be something for your incredible talent.

you painted for yudy’s right?

i am not alone here, lots of braves fans that are dawgs.

dude, i know you recall sons of italy, and steveorinos.

little five points, the boars head.

or as we said the hoars bed.

either way brother, i bet you miss athens just a little.

on the eve of a home game i miss it a lot.

By ObiWanKobe

September 6, 2008 2:16 AM | Link to this

DOB, If you want to hear My Morning Jacket, then try to get the new “Little One’s”, it sounds like an album based around “Off the Record” by MMJ

By uga-brave

September 6, 2008 2:19 AM | Link to this

LEW,

by the way i am going to TEMPE in two weeks.

going to see the dawgs in the desert.

our points on our season tickets barely made the cut.

we just missed qualifying for baton rouge.

that is the hardest ticket.

road games are the best.

will be in jacks, and auburn.

the only thing that could be better would be if the braves were still playing in the fall.

1999, went to see the dawgs in nashville, vandy, on friday night glavine gives up zero runs in eight innings vs. the mets. rocker pitches the ninth and the braves go up 3-0.

glav won that game 1-0

for that matter the braves won two close ones at home leading up to that.

eddie perez was huge and brian jordan hit the foul pole in right in game two.

By ccrider

September 6, 2008 2:32 AM | Link to this

HI ALL: I have been pouring over the possibilities that could make the Braves contenders next season and I think we need to look to our team’s history for the answer. PITCHING 1ST!!! DOB showed some interesting stats recently. He showed our runs per game with Mark Texiera and without him: the stats were almost the exactly the same. The point being that more power is great but it didn’t keep the 1991, 1992 etc. Braves from winning and going to the World Series. We need to make an all out effort, both financially and selling the team’s history to acquire CC Sabathia. He would be the Maddox type signing that would coax others to want to play here. The lineup can be made stronger, not by signing overrated players like Dunn(Poor Defense, Poorer attitude) or Burrell(Voted Mr. Inconsitency 5 years running). Here are my thoughts: Sign Sabbathia $20 mil 6 years, Sign D.Lowe $12 mil 2 years with an 3rd year team option. Sign Hampton $4 with incentives 1 year. sign Raul Ibanez 2 years $7 mil with a 3rd year team option. Sign Rocco Baldelli 4 mil 2 years with 3rd year team option. Sign W. Ohman 2 years $2.5 mil with team option for 3rd. Lineup against lefties: 1B Prado, 2B Infante, 3B Chipper, CF Baldelli, C McCann, SS Escober, LF Ibanez, RF Franceour. Lineup against Righties: RF Anderson, 2B Johnson, 3B Chipper, C McCann, LF Ibanez, CF Schafer, 1B Kotchman, SS Escobar. Add Sammons and Edgar Renteria at $3 mil. if Detroit releases him. Total Lineup Costs: $39.5 Million (Versatile Lineup and reasonably priced Rotation: Sabathia, D. Lowe, Hampton, Jurjjens and One of the following Hanson, Medlin, Parr, Morton (NOW THAT WE KNOW WHY HIS VELOCITY HAS FALLEN) or T.Redmond. Total Rotation Costs: $37 Million Bullpen: Gonzalez, Soriano, Moylan, Ohman, Campillo, and 2 cheap pitchers from trades for some combination of JJ Reyes. B. Lillibridge, B Jones. Total Bullpen Costs: $13.5 Million Total Payroll $90 Million + $6 Mil for non issued salary = $96 Million. 2010: We replace Kotchman with Tyler Flowers, If Jason Heyward is ready we replace and trade Raul Ibanez, Replace Hampton with one of the young pitchers which now would include Cole Rohrborough or Tim Hudson I honestly believe these teams could compete in 2009 and 2010 while we transition in our young players. Could 2011 be C-McCann, 1st-Flowers, 2nd Johnson/Prado, SS Escobar, 3B Chipper/E. Campbell, OF some combo of Heyward, Schafer, Franceour, G. Hernandez, J. Anderson. BENCH: K. Kaiahue, Prado, Campbell, Anderson, FLowers could catch so maybe we get another pitcher in the pen. Rotation: Sabathia, Hudson, Jurjjens, Hanson, Rohrborough( Parr or Morton or Medlin or Redmond. THE FUTURE LOOKS BETTER THAN MOST THINK!

By TheAntiMe

September 6, 2008 4:36 AM | Link to this

ccrider, I agree that pitching is going to be the key. I’m also kind of encouraged by guys like Brandon Jones and I’ve always liked Josh Anderson for the many different things he can do.

I like, overall, the way The Bravos are building for the not too distant future with guys like Heyward and Schafer.

I’m also very optimistic about our pitching prospects such as Thomas Hanson and am very interested in seeing how good Stephen Marek, who came over with Casey Kotchman in the Mark Teixiera trade, can be.

One idea that has been floating around in my head, even though Kelly Johnson has been playing really well, especially lately, is the possibility of maybe signing Dan Uggla in the offseason. I really doubt that the cash-strapped Marlins will be able to re-sign him and The Braves could possibly be able to lock him up on a multi-year deal for maybe not much more than they were paying for Mark Kotsay. If that were to happen then they could package K. Johnson or Martin Prado in a deal for a middle relief pitcher or two, or maybe a set-up guy for the lackluster bullpen.

Well, it’s just something I’ve kind of been thinking about for a lot of the 2nd half of the season. In any event, I’m pretty optimistic about The Braves chances to become a contender again in the next few years. Mostly through the farm (we should get a pretty decent draft pick this year and you can’t forget about the guy we got in the Mark Kotsay trade either) but also with a trade or 2 and a few strategic free agent signings, The Braves can be set for another long run of being in contention without having to break the bank like The Yankees do every year.

Another good omen is that there is going to be money available for Frank Wren to play with during the offseason.

OK, I’ll shut-up now.

By Greg

September 6, 2008 5:35 AM | Link to this

I HATE, HATE, HATE, the blue unis and the red unis. What a spit in the face of the baseball gods. The team has a great traditional uni. Imagine if there were such things as baseball gods. Don’t you think they would be furious that a team that has won 14 straight division titles would trash its tradition so cavalierly? I think the first thiing the team should do at the end of this year is burn all of the red and blue unis.

By BravesFan79

September 6, 2008 6:33 AM | Link to this

I love the Uniform theory DOB! lol…. i actually LIKE the Blue and always hated the red. The Braves always seemed to play like crap last season in the red. Then again maybe that was because we used our AA lineup on alot of sundays last year (woodcrap, orr, thorman, andrew at cleanup)

You know who i think is a free agent who i called for the Braves to sign last offseason…. Jermaine Dye… and look what hes doing for the Chi Sox!! I say HES the answer to our anemic outfield offense, as well as a former Brave so even better. Sign Dye and Sheets, or CC, or trade for Roy Halliday. I just dont see 2 many other available TRUE aces out there.

If we sign those 2, then add Smoltz in the pen, and Hudson as the #2 starter for a 2nd half run next year…. i can see us making a Serious run at the playoffs!

Screw all you “rebuilding” pple…. after 2 future HOF’s that are still dominate retire…..(Smoltz and Chipper) THEN…ill admit to “Rebuilding”.
Till then…. ANYTHING is possible!

By BigP

September 6, 2008 7:07 AM | Link to this

No blue, no red. Just simple white at home and gray on the road.

To me a big issue is the PANTS down to the shoes with NO SOCKS. They are SLOPPY looking! This is really turning a lot of us traditional fans off. The team that looks sharp plays sharp. NO BAGGY PANTS!

By Jeff321

September 6, 2008 8:59 AM | Link to this

I could see Smoltz back in the bullpen, but I see no way Glavine helps the Braves next season. Its obvious he’s done dealing and I wouldn’t even offer him $1M.

Anyway, I’d rather bring up the young studs from the minors.. At least they have some possible upside.

Once again, the Fox game of the week is giving me the wrong game! It looks like Phillies/Mets but I want to see the Dodgers/Diamondbacks!

By richbrave

September 6, 2008 9:23 AM | Link to this

HANNA you wench. Behave.!!

By Vol

September 6, 2008 9:34 AM | Link to this

Long-time Braves followers:

Does anyone think the Brandon Jones picture on the Braves ajc home page looks like Fred McGriff? I’d take .285/30/100 out of him next year like Fred used to do.

By richbrave

September 6, 2008 9:35 AM | Link to this

All the best to my man MORTON. Fix that shoulder, and come back strong BRAVES need you.

By L

September 6, 2008 9:36 AM | Link to this

I agree on uni’s it should be mandatory that all playr”s pantsbe set high with socks showing, not drooping on the ground. The NFL insists on a common uni why not MLB.

On the future of the Braves, let’s learn from our mistakes and not send young prospects for one year FA’s like Tex, Drew,for Wainwright,Andrus etc), especially pitchers.we need to acquire some outfield power from some place also.

By Notre Don't

September 6, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this

I kind of like the blue uni. I’m a huge uni guy and i DO believe that you gotta look good to play good. The red … not so much. But all things considered … the Braves have some of the best unis out there.

By flange1

September 6, 2008 9:49 AM | Link to this

uga-brave’

“Stay gold Pony boy”

Isn’t that what Ralph Machio said to C. Thomas Howell in the Outsiders before he died?

I would have never guessed you as a PBR guy!!!

By McFann :ิ:

September 6, 2008 9:56 AM | Link to this

Supes Well the “fatigue thing” is evident. Mac isn’t driving the ball like he did a couple of months ago.

Hmm…I guess…But Grove has played more innings, why isn’t he “fatigued”? He hit .355 last month, and is hitting .333 so far this month.

I guess we’re at the point where “it all evens out”?

By keylargo

September 6, 2008 10:00 AM | Link to this

Jeff321

If Hanna is still moving NNE you might not have to watch the Mets/Phillies game on Fox.

Congratulations by the way. I saw another positive comment by you.

By McFann :ิ:

September 6, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this

Vol—

I’ve seen pictures of Fred…Yeah, he looks a little like him in that photo on the AJC.

Personally, I’ve always thought he looks like Edgar Renteria.

By Jeff R

September 6, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this

Amen, DOB. The Braves need to stick to the classic uniforms, not this mix ‘n match, Gerr-Animals stuff that their marketing whizzes are fobbing off on fans. Or, fob it off at the stores but don’t make the players wear the stuff.

By BT

September 6, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this

We can’t be surprised about what we got out of Elmer! That’s all we are going to get and if he can make it through an inning in a blowout that’s good.

People are on KJ’s case because of his inconsistency and I agree. On the flip side if he inflates his average with late season hits it makes him more attractive in the trade mkt. If we keep him we could hope that he has finally found his “groove.” Would be nice to see JF do something similar.

If Hanson makes a run, Parr continues to impress and Morton can bounce back it may not be all doom and gloom next year. Kind of reminds me of hoping that Glavine, Smoltz and Avery would finally find their way.

By Jeff321

September 6, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this

keylargo

Sounds good to me! I am really getting into this Dodgers/Diamondbacks race.

By TommyP

September 6, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this

Does anyone else notice there seems to be more lefty pitchers in the NL starting than ever before?

As for the uniforms? I’ll skip the fashion discussion.

Is this that bad? For all the talk about the Braves’ obvious needs entering the offseason, let me ask, does this seem like it should be one of them: A middle infielder who’s hitting .273 with 47 extra-base hits (nine homers), 56 RBIs and a .342 OBP.

What’s YOUR answer, DOB? Like Cooper pointed out and you agreed, you pointed to that position earlier as perhaps needing an upgrade. Do you think he’s better used as our 2B or a trading chip?

Josh Anderson sure has looked damn good.

By keylargo

September 6, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

I really liked the braves throwback unis they wore in Boston. They all had the pants just below the knee like they are supposed to be worn. Maybe I’m just old fashioned but like I mentioned to McFann, they look like pajamas when they are so baggy and drooping around the shoes.

But pants are minor compared to my dislike for hats with the bill straight and the hat cocked of to one side. I wish someone would tell Jeff Ridgeway he is in the major leagues again and he could dress like it.

By Train Wreck Bystander

September 6, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this

It’s nut the unis - though I agree those red jerseys should be burned in a bonfire after the last Friday home game.

If you really want to blame something outside the clubhouse, blame the hodge-podge availability of Peachtree TV to the Braves faithful here in the southeast.

By jay blaisdell

September 6, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this

Thanks for the great ( and necessary ) piece about the uniforms. Could never understand teams abandoning class for cheap thrills and cheap dollars. I don’t even like the red uniforms. Strictly team shoppe fare. Haven’t come across an alternative uniform yet that’s worth a damn — not counting the nifty “Old Time” uniforms. Maybe the White Sox with their black jersey tops and silver leteering. Sort of cool. also, how come all teams ( Angels, diamondbacks, etc. ) eventually ALL change their colors to red & white or red, white and blue ? I don’t get it. What was the point of the Diamonbacks ditching its purple and copper uni’s for yet another red and white outfit ? Nice innovative work done by the Washington nationals, too , for coming up with ….well …..red & white.

By DAP

September 6, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this

mcfann ive always thought that b jones looked like edgar, as well. they look alot alike. i dont think jones looks like mcgriff in any way, not his swing or his face or stance or anything.

By It's OVER Folks

September 6, 2008 10:57 AM | Link to this

The Braves run is done. The Braves as a decent team are done. The fault is purely at the feet of those too blame, management and ownership. The Time group and the current ownership group do not give a tinkers D* about a winning team, UNLESS that team wins on a rock bottom budget.

Ownership and leadership have a rotten minor league system that turns out maybe one or two players every few years. For a minor league system that was suppose to have been one of the BEST in baseball, now it simply sucks. It was, and will always be about money for the current ownership group.

What these fools fail to realize is that a team that spends money, makes money. Example: Yanks and Red Sox. They spend, and they have decent teams, thus huge crowds at the ball park every game, sell lots of stuff at the park, and sell lots of team gear. If your team sucks, then no one comes, nothing gets sold. Thus, they lose money, not make money. The age old saying, that you have to spend money to make money in business is true. Marketing is the name of the game.

The Braves marketing is that this team sucks, thus save your money, go to a high school game, or join some softball team yourself and get out and play. Don’t spend your hard earned dollars on the Braves.

All one has to do is go back over the Braves history in Atlanta too see the results of spending money to make money and produce good teams. You don’t have to spend ARod dollars either. You can be wise with your spending. The Braves CAME to Atlanta because they were losing money in Milwaukee. Now Milwaukee is a better team and franchise than the Braves. A Braves trained manager is doing the job there.

Bobby Cox has had his run. It is time for him to go, hire a younger manager, and start over. BECAUSE they ARE going to have to start over. They are at best a AAA team now. A lot of former released players filling the roster simply because the Braves lack the minor league system to plug those gaps. It is going to take at least two to three years for the Braves to build back, AND that is only going to be accomplished by ownership spending wisely on free agents and not broken down Hampton types. It is a 100% certainty that their minor league system is not going to produce those players. Right now, they have what, six pitchers that they broke camp with that are broken down, have been broken down on the DL for most of the season, and how many arm and shoulder surgeries?? Way too many too keep up with.

Sadly, the Braves of the 90’s and early 2000’s are gone. They will not be back. THe Braves franchise is now going to become a Pittsburgh Pirates, Oakland A’s, Seattle Mariners, Kansas City Royals type franchise under current ownership and leadership. And, I for one, will spend my money at a minor league park near my home before driving 200 miles round trip to see the lowly Braves get beat. I can see that on TV.

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 10:59 AM | Link to this

TommyP, as I stated above (in the comments, not original blog), I’m simply presenting the stats and asking, is Kelly/2B a serious priority given the other serious needs the Braves have, including a couple of starting pitchers, more bullpen help (another lefty) and at least one power-hitting outfielder.

If they want to try Prado there, that’s one thing. But I don’t see how trading for or spending big dollars on another free agent second baseman makes sense unless the payroll’s going up more than I think it is. Not when there’s so many other needs.

Again, if they feel like Prado is an upgrade, that’s one thing (and I really don’t know that he would be, since we haven’t seen him exposed on a play-every-day basis. I do know he’s not nearly as good an offensive player as Kelly is WHEN KELLY’s GOING GOOD. Problem is the long dry spells that Kelly has gone through, the inconsistency.

Neither of them is special defensively, but Prado hits for the higher average and can wear out the gap in right-center for extra-base hits. Kelly’s got more power and is capable of being a far better run-producer than Prado, in my opinion. But again, it’s the inconsistencies and strikeouts, taking too many good pitches, that have hurt him for weeks on end at times.

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this

uga-brave, unfortunately you will see only a sad shell of the store that was Ella Guru. Donny boy has already made his big move over to the Old Fourth Ward, did it over Labor Day weekend. I haven’t been to the new store yet, will do so on the off day Monday. I hate that it’s not two blocks from my house anymore, but it’ll probably save me a lot of money not being able to stop in there on a whim and pick up 4-5 CDs at a time.

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 11:06 AM | Link to this

Oh, and I disagree wholeheartedly on your suggestion that Leyland is a creation of the media. He’s for real. Hell of a manager, from all I’ve seen and from just about everyone I ever talked to that played for him (including Kotsay, by the way).

By DAP

September 6, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this

DOB replacing kelly definetly isnt a pressing issue, but using him to fill other needs might be a good idea. kelly is a good player, but the truth is, prado, infante, and johnson are all expendable. kelly just hasnt been the GREAT player that would make him untouchable.

so, weve got depth at 2nd base. if we need to trade on of those guys for pitching or outfield help, we can do it. i really hope we dont trade kelly, becausei really like him, but we have plenty of guys to play 2nd.

By cityofdecatur

September 6, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this

didn’t ELLA Guru move to Inman Park near highland ave in the den of yuppie dom?

By cityofdecatur

September 6, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

as for drunken chicken (ie beer can chicken) any liquid will do (i prefer a little , no alot of cheap bourbon with the beer) and it’s better smoked not grilled or at least with a cover. as we say in the Kansas City BBQ society (got my judging credentials last year) keep the fire low and cook it slow. keep an extra six pack for oral consumption and don’t hurry the fire. theres a place at medlock and scott blvd that sells hickory wood (seasoned)at a decent price and don’t soak chips they leave and ash on the meat. just a small log next to the coals and cover the grill. enjoy the bird. DOB Ellas ok but i’m still an old time wax and facts regular love that vinyl.

By Tomas

September 6, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this

We won one game Thursday, and Friday, we win one today that’s called a winning streak. It has happen before, so let’s get some hustle let’s jack it up a little. Quote from the movie Major League.

By McFann :ิ:

September 6, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this

DAP—

You think so, too, eh? Yeah, every once in a while (especially when he first came up), I’d see Brandon in the dugout, and I was like, “Where’d Edgar come from? Oh yeah, that’s Brandon!”

I hope he’s here next year, too. I like the guy.

By Hampton's Mother -In-Law

September 6, 2008 12:17 PM | Link to this

David, Sorry, but as someone who follows the Tigers I could not let the Leyland comment go. All you need to know about “Senor Smokes” is that he has insisted on putting a NOW throughly non-productive Gary Sheffield in the line-up throughout the year. Most people have speculated is that he is intimidated and/or fearful of what Gang Banging Gary could bring to the clubhouse if he isn’t happy OR he is so loyal to older guys that he can’t sit them down to the detriment of the team.

DON’T ever forget “Mr Carcinogenic’s” “sudden” termination in Colorado and you must be aware. as a beat writer, of his abusive and demeaning treatment of a very SOFT BALL TOSSING Detroit press corps. I won’t even get into his spewing food over journalists in his post game press conferences while spitting out “NEXT” in response to any question he does not deem worthy.

Dave, Jim Leyland is an emaciated, boorish canine who is probably in the first throes of some very severe health problems brought about by his compulsive 2 pack(or more) addiction. You would think that NOW he might consider it getting near the time to clean up his act a little as it pertains to the Little Guy. BUT so far, Jimbo sees no such urge and the sub .500 skipper—with some very good talent over the years—-will go not merrily but GRUFFILY along his way—Underachieving and reminding fans with his little bromides about how they don’t get it.

Well, Jimbo I get Bonds, Bonilla, Van Slyke and some pretty good pitchers that you basically parlayed into NOTHING and now with a 138 million dollar payroll maybe you can avoid KC for the cellar.

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

Hampton’s Mother-in-Law, just so we’re clear: We can record a thumbs-down for you on Leyland, correct?

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this

CityofDecatur: As I stated above, yes, ol’ Donny moved. It was that or shut down, basically, because of lease and renovation plans they had at Toco Hill (if you look, there’s quite a few shuttered businesses there right now).

As for where he moved, he described it as the Old Fourth Ward. Whether it’s that and/or Inman Park, I don’t know. All those neighborhoods tend to overlap, in my brain. I do know I’d love to buy a house over there, though. Make my commute to ballpark a lot easier.

Vinyl’s great, but CDs are too convenient for me to avoid. Seems a lot easier to me, with a collections of thousands of CDs, to play them straight through rather than getting up to turn over vinyl every 15 minutes. But I do have hundreds of albums and keep buying first-editions of classic blues, soul, country and rock albums when I find them at various stores, thrift shops and places like Kutzu. I love the sound and the overall product, holding the album, checking out the liner notes, etc.

But I gotta admit, for practical purposes I play almost exclusively CDs.

By McFann :ิ:

September 6, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this

Sweet! No Fillies-Mets game!

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this

Actually, CityofDecatur, let’s get Don to come on here and defend his move, if he so desires (not that I feel he needs to, since I know he wasn’t exactly plowing piles of cash at the old site). But I do like to bust his, er, chops. So yeah, I’ll agree with you that he moved to the epicenter of yuppiedom, or whatever you called it (though to be honest, dude, you gotta admit that downtown Decatur and surrounding area is at least as “yuppie” these days as anything near the evolving Old Fourth Ward.

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this

The Braves run is done. It’s OVER Folks

Thanks for that piece of breaking news.

By Jeff321

September 6, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this

Sweet! No Fillies-Mets game!

I demand the Dodgers/Diamondbacks game!

According to Fox’s website:

Phillies @ Mets - 60% - Tigers @ Twins - 21% - D-Backs @ Dodgers - 18%

So, I was scheduled to get the Phillies/Mets prior to the PPD. Which game will I be getting now?

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this

I’ll just keep bloggin’ with myself here. Watching the Ohio U.-Ohio State game, and keep waiting for Buckeyes to go on a tear. But it’s not happened yet, and Ohio’s up 7-6 with a minute left in the half. This would be right there with Appy State knocking off Michigan at the Big House. But I just can’t imagine it happening. We’ll see.

Needless to say, Ohio State would appear to be in for a thrashing at Southern Cal next week.

By McFann :ิ:

September 6, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this

Jeff321 Which game will I be getting now?

Hmm…Not sure ‘bout that one.

Gotta run!

Later!

By J.D.

September 6, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this

Ohio St is missing Beanie Wells, but they look pretty damn awful right now. I’m with you on this one DOB, they play against USC like this and it will get pretty ugly pretty quickly. I’m just counting down the hours until my Orange play Akron and lose by 30 to further embarass themselves in BCS football.

By J.D.

September 6, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this

Ohio St is missing Beanie Wells, but they look pretty damn awful right now. I’m with you on this one DOB, they play against USC like this and it will get pretty ugly pretty quickly. I’m just counting down the hours until my Orange play Akron and lose by 30 to further embarass themselves in BCS football.

By Steve from OH

September 6, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

DOB, us Ohioans are waiting (hoping) for OSU to go on a tear, too. Perhaps they’re looking ahead to a certain game?

On a related note, why does Mark May hate Ohio State so much?

By McLovin

September 6, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

DOB

Do you see the Braves going after Jon Garland in free agency? I believe they tried to trade for him last year. His strikeout rate is pretty bad and I can’t imagine it getting better. Not to mention for the money, he probably isn’t worth it. But again, they tried to trade for him last year, so it might mean that they do have some interest in him. Thoughts?

I am…..McLovin.

By cabravesfan

September 6, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this

Thanks DOB for the vote of confidence for my Trojans next week- I would sure enjoy a blow out…at least I have something to look forward to after watching bad baseball for so long…

By TommyP

September 6, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this

DOB: One of the things I don’t like about emails/blogs is that tone is tough to interpret.

I was simply asking, “What would YOU do about 2B?”

Everyone and their mother has given their opinion. Just looking for yours.

Make Prado the starter and trade Kelly, Prado starts and Kelly goes back to LF, or Kelly stays at 2B and Prado is used as a utility? (no way we get rid of Prado)

Now that Ohio State is LOSING to Ohio, they better drop in the rankings. I mean, what was the rationale for Georgia dropping last week????? We’re up 38-0 and subbing freely and the pollsters hold that against us.

Needs to happen again.

That said, the Buckeye team you see now won’t be the same one that shows up for USC. Doesn’t work like that.

By Oh, Well

September 6, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this

TO DOB:

“Thanks for that piece of breaking news.”

Your welcome wise a*.

By McFann :ิ:

September 6, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this

They did it again:

The Braves (62-80), who will miss the playoffs for a third straight season after winning 11 consecutive division titles, have posted back-to-back victories for the first time since a three-game winning streak from Aug.

Sheesh!

Later!

By TommyP

September 6, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this

Ohio!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Steve from OH

September 6, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this

That can’t be good.

By Steve from OH

September 6, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this

Touchdown!

By Interested Observer

September 6, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this

DOB

When Wren talked about getting a bopper in left field next year, did he mention a preference for a right-handed hitter? It seems to me our line-up is going to be very lefty heavy. Anderson, Blanco, Shafer, and B. Jones are all leftys, add Kotchman, McCann, and Kelly if he stays.

By J.D.

September 6, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this

that was one hell of a recovery

By Steve from OH

September 6, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

Touchdown! 19-14!

DOB, no doubt. They’ve got a LOT of work to before next Saturday (they’ve still got a lot of work to do today, too)….I still think it will be a good game, but maybe that’s the fan bias in me talking.

By Lew

September 6, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this

DOB-Have you ever tried to record your vinyl on CD? They have software that can do the transition-I’ve got a friend that did quite a few for me. They sound very good, but of course, the less pops and crackles on them the better the CD.

BTW-Does anyone know where I can find an anti static gun? They used to make them as late as the early 90’s-it shoots a streeam of ions across the vinyl. You’d be surprised just how much of the “Noise” on old vinyl-especially those albums that were taken care of-is nothing but static. Been looking for a couple years now, but I guess Vermont is too small to carry everything you’re looking for.

What the Denizen said earlier about cooking your BBQ slow is true to the extreme. Just had some Vermont BBQ-cooked for 20 hours over a fire using maple and oak-natural Vermont hardwoods. Gives the pork a unique flavor you won’t get with hickory or mesquite. Good Stuff-but somewhat different from what you find Down Home.

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this

Lew, while I’ve heard that’s a cool thing (vinyl recorded to CD), frankly I’ve got a lot of other things to do in limited free time. You know what I mean? CD and vinyl are fine with me as they are, no need to combine forces.

By BT

September 6, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this

Ohio driving.

Dream of the month, Ohio beats Ohio St, Ohio St gets pumped beats Southern Cal, Ga goes to number one.

Let me dream!

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this

IO: No, haven’t heard Frank Wren mention a preference.

By BT

September 6, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this

That dream is over.

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

Happy birthday Chrissie Hynde, rockin’ and looking good at 57.

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this

Oh, and happy 65th, Roger Waters (now does that make us feel old, or what?)

By keylargo

September 6, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this

Cabravesfan

NEVER say Trojan and blowout in the same sentence.

By Lew

September 6, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

DOB-I understand. It was just an idea so you could put them on your IPod for traveling. Honestly, I wouldn’t have any myself if a buddy hadn’t recorded them for me-gave up on my vinyl and cassettes some years back-some ancient BeBop Deluxe and Kerry Livgren (Kansas) stuff. Unfortunately, there’s still much that came out years ago that has not been transitioned to CD yet-as you well know.

By keylargo

September 6, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this

Lew

tweakshop.com/zerostat.html

By cabravesfan

September 6, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

keylargo

wow. just…wow. don’t even know what to say to that…

ummm-sorry?:)

By hoho

September 6, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

I could see the Braves going into ‘09 with an outfield of B. Jones, Anderson and Frenchy (and Blanco in reserve-he can play all 3 positions). Don’t know if that’ll get them to the promised land, but I could see them going with those guys. It would be hoping to get B.Jones swinging like he did in AAA and Frenchy swinging like he has before this year. It could potentially be more power than this year and a bona fide lead off guy with speed in center.

Spend money on pitching younger than 30 and the team may have an early ‘90’s look to it (as long as they keep those red unis off the field!)

By ColoradoBravesFan

September 6, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this

DOB… Not blogging by yourself. some of us just lurking in the shadows. Can’t force myself to rehash the ” what the Braves need to do…” discuss again.

Myrtle Beach about to win their playoff seris and advance to the finals I believe. Flowers hit.529 for the 4 games, and Heyward hit .357.

GO BRAVES…

By Vol

September 6, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this

So much for the upset in Ohio. I live in Columbus and would have liked to see it. Have to wait until next week for a Bucks loss.

keylargo - nice one.

By hoho

September 6, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

And I don’t think B. Jones has been bad when he’s been up to the bigs. He’s just unproven, but I just remember him driving in runs and making contact when he has been up. Anyone think he could play everyday and contribute offensively? He’s not a bad outfielder, Cox has used him in RF as well a few times.

By hoho

September 6, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this

Interested Observer- DANG! just when I make a point about B. Jones I read your post about a lefty-heavy line up. I see your point.

I actually am wondering if B.Jones will provide more power and RBI than Kotchman. That’s one of the toughest things about losing TEX, we had 2 switch hitting guys who hit for power (TEX and HOSS of course). I’m curious to see if they could unload CK in the off season for something better at 1B. He is a good defender, but I don’t think his offense is what is needed here. Heck, for that matter Prado, a righty, could play 1B in winter ball and compete in spring training for the job. I know that’s not an upgrade in the power, but it balances the line up with another righty. Just some thoughts folks. What’ll ya have!?

By Tomas

September 6, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this

Last night’s lineup is the one they need to keep using until it stops working. I just think they did a heck of a job getting on base and getting them home. Yunel is much better batting 5th because he ground out in so many dp, maybe that’s one of the reasons chipper hasn’t had a lot of RBI’s this season.

By TennesseePaul

September 6, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this

DOB: Gotta disagree on the solid blue caps. I like those. Very much like the classic Cubs uni. They have different home and away caps. They have for quite a while. But those red jersey’s… those I find repulsive. It gets even worse with those lame Angels In The Outfield style caps.

By Hampton's Mother -In-Law

September 6, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this

Dear Dave, For your own amusement you must watch a Leyland Post Gamer. Unless you are on the receiving end of his garbage, it may be some of the most entertaining stuff on television.

He will sit with his eyes cast downward on a plate of pasta while spitting out terse answers—ONLY to questions he deems intelligent(and remember this comes from a baseball lifer who if removed from his element could not find his way out of a phone booth without the assistance of some Navy Seals)——to a COWED group of Detroit writers with the collective backbone of Joey Harrington under pressure.

In fact ,as a beat writer, I would like to ask your opinion as to the level of verbal abuse that ANY journalist must take before either TV or newspaper steps in and just says—“We’re not covering you anymore”??? I can almost bet they would not take it in Boston, New York or Philadelphia. Would you take it!! I’m not exaggerating—IT IS ABUSIVE!! And, NO!!!! i’ve never been a sports journalist with an ax to grind. BUT, what’s fair is fair.

By richbrave

September 6, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this

RANDOM:

Thanx bud for taking the time to send that request and in all due humility. Nice touch. Here’s hopin’.

By McFann :ิ:

September 6, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

Tomas Yunel is much better batting 5th because he ground out in so many dp

What? He cann still ground into double-plays in the five spot. He grounded into 3 in one game batting fifth.

Sorry, man. Just sayin’…

By Couch Tater

September 6, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this

UGA at home. Bravos fightin’ Nats for the cellar. I’m taking predictions for the estimated crowd at Turner Field tonight.

By Interested Observer

September 6, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this

Thanks DOB. I really appreciate all the time and effort you put into the blog.

By BravesFan79

September 6, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this

Your right DOB…. Decatur IS a s**-hole!!

How about GT today…. Paul Johnsons the coach i thought he was! I predict GT will be in the ACC championship game this year…and 2 years from now will be good enough to compete against the Ohio States and UGA’s of the football world.

College Football still has the WORST postseason in the history of sports! BCS SUCKS!! BOYCOTT the POINTLESS bowl games!!

WHO CARES ABOUT A STUPID TROPHY OF A COW…. GIVE ME A 8 or 16 TEAM PLAYOFF!

By GREG J

September 6, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this

I DONT UNDERSTAND THE LOVE AFFAIR WITH KELLY JOHNSON,HE IS A AVERAGE BALLPLAYER AT BEST WHO WILL GET NO BETTER,HAS TERRIBLE RANGE AND CANT HIT IN CLUTH AND HALF THE TIME LOOKS LIKE HE IS IN A FOG!!!NOTHING ON THE LINE ANYMORE SO NOW HES HITTING ONE OF MY WISHES THIS OFF SEASON IS TO PLEASE SOMEONE TAKE KELLY JOHNSON.

By Coach (Skip will be missed)

September 6, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this

Hey Shaun, my little buddy. Mike Hampton is pitching tonight. I think we will find out who really U-N-D-E-R-S-T-A-N-D-S why it is important that the Braves should sign Hampton for 2009. That’s of course, I-F he stays healthy through the remainder of September.

At any rate, Hampton has my vote. As does Juan Rivera, ivan Rodriguez, Jon Garland, Greg Norton and Will Ohman.

By Brian

September 6, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

The more I see Francoeur at the plate, the more dissapointed I’ll be if we don’t get a power bat and add another decent one. Wren has to be careful who he trades because B Jones might save us next year if Francoeur - you know. It might be smart to hang on to B Jones and have that as very important backup. Like the I. Rodriguez idea. Mac needs that cause Sammons doesn’t impress me a bit.

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 5:21 PM | Link to this

BravesFan79, good luck on that call for a boycott. And by the way, I didn’t characterize Decatur as you did. Pretty cool place, if you ask me.

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this

Hampton’s Mother in Law: Why would I need to watch or sit in on a Leyland postgame session with Detroit writers? I covered the Marlins when he managed the team in 1997-98, including a 104-loss season in ‘98. You don’t think I experienced plenty of those sessions myself? He often broke his plastic fork stabbing angrily at food while answering questions. Classic stuff. And once there was milk already running down the wall when we were brought into his office.

By Steve from OH

September 6, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this

Coach:

Juan Rivera??? Really? You want to sign a guy with a career .331 OBP and who hasn’t posted an OBP above .300 in the past two seasons? Why? We’re taking a big enough gamble hoping Francoeur will break out of his funk, so why would we add another outfielder with a terrible OBP? If we’re gonna go the free agent route, let’s go get Pat Burrell instead. Heck, even Raul Ibanez would be a better signing that Juan Rivera.

Hampton’s cool with me. Of course, it’s too early to know how the offseason’s going to play out with trades and signings and such, but I would be fine with Hampton filling the 5th spot in the rotation. If something better comes along, or if FW and the gang view Morton as a better investment (at a lower salary), then that’s cool, too.

Garland? Maybe. Dude’s got a career 104 ERA+, so he’s pretty much the definition of an average pitcher. He’s only posted an ERA of under 4 once in his career (in a full season) and his strikeout rate is pretty terrible. He’s also not getting any younger. I’d rather have Lowe, but then again, you’ve gotta ask yourself if Lowe on a four year deal is a better investment than Garland on a four year deal? If Lowe can be had for three years, than I go for him instead of Garland. In any case, I’d really like to see us either try to trade for an ace or make a serious run at Sabathia. Derek Lowe on a shorter-term deal is a very wise investment, IMO.

Ohman and Norton are cool with me. Don’t understand why you would want Pudge when we can pay Sammons 400K to be the backup when you know Pudge is going to be wanting upwards of 2-3 million or more. Our money could be better invested elsewhere.

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this

We’ve got a very worried and unhappy writer in the pressbox right now. Bowman is coming unglued watching his Mountaineers fall behind 10-0 against the Pirates of East Carolina. (And I don’t think he’s enjoying my doing the old “Hey, hey, hey, HEY, E-C, you look so good to me” chant that they did back when I was a kid selling Cokes at East Carolina games, when Pat Dye was the coach, and Sonny Randle before him.)

By Steve from OH

September 6, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this

Greg J, I think most hitters would have trouble hitting in the “cluth.”:)

By McFann :ิ:

September 6, 2008 5:39 PM | Link to this

Whoo-hoo! We beat BC today!

Boog’s not gonna be thrilled about that, is he? : )

By Tom

September 6, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this

DOB, would I be out of my mind to say that the Braves might look to acquire three legit starting pitchers this winter? I could easily see where two mid-tier signings (like, say, Ryan Dempster and Derek Lowe) and a trade for a younger, controllable guy could fit into the payroll, even if you say that space has to be left for a big-stick left fielder.

And no, I’m not tearing down the options that we already have, like Reyes or Morton or Hanson…I like them…A LOT. It just seems to me that it would be nice to have a full rotation without them, and it also seems to me that money might not prohibit such a situation.

But then again, those kind of shake-em-up moves aren’t characteristic of the Braves (that’s a comment, not a criticism). So I guess what I’m asking is am I crazy to hope for three new starters come next April?

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 5:55 PM | Link to this

Tom, you’re forgetting Campillo. He’s cheap, and he’s had a good year. He’s fine at the back of a good rotation.

By 22oz

September 6, 2008 6:09 PM | Link to this

Is everyone doing their daily Ford F. Frick award? Skip for the Hall of Fame! Ernie and Pete too for that matter.

www.baseballhalloffame.org

By Tom

September 6, 2008 6:09 PM | Link to this

DOB, I’m not sure I forgot Campillo. Jurrjens + Campillo + three acquisitions is five starters.

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 6:09 PM | Link to this

Lineup tonight:

1. Josh A., 2. Kelly J., 3. Chipper, 4. Mac, 5. Escobar, 6. Kotchman, 7. B. Jones, 8. Blanco, 9, Hampton.

McCann’s beat up, though he won’t say so publicly. He also won’t say he’s tired, he’ll just smile and say you’ve got to play 162 games and help your team win, etc. I just talked to him about it, that’s why I know that’s what he’ll say, because it’s what he said (I used a roundabout way of saying that, didn’t I?)

By William

September 6, 2008 6:17 PM | Link to this

DOB How’s Jeff doing after getting beaned last night?

By Jeff321

September 6, 2008 6:18 PM | Link to this

DOB - Did Frenchy get injured last night by that HBP?

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 6:24 PM | Link to this

Tom, I would think they’ll try to have one spot filled from amongst the handful of possibilities, even if they trade one or two of them. You’ve got Morton, Reyes, Tommy Hanson, possibly Parr, maybe Medlen … From that group, I think they’d probably like to have at least one guy in rotation.

I could be wrong. But if you look to add three starters, seems to me the money you could afford to spend for the third one probably wouldn’t bring you anything measurably better than what you might have in one of the above.

By Section 105 Nobody Else Around

September 6, 2008 6:27 PM | Link to this

Dave, Probably the only Marlins fan in Atlanta. Moved here from Delray Beach 2 months ago. wanted to give you my take on what I think the Marlins should do for 09. I WAS ACTUALLY a season ticket holder since their inception.I know CRAZY!! Anyhow, they should retain Johnson, Nolasco, Volstad and Sanchez of the starters and dump Olsen. Good young starters on the horizon in the minors—STILL!!! In the pen you keep Pinto, Nelson(a HUGE surprise), Waechter and Lindstrom. Gregg and his hiding the injury which arguably cost them at least 7 games will be gone. Hermida, and his Punch and Judy approach at the plate as well as WORST defensive corner outfielder will be gone. Also gone Willingham, Marlins CAN’T(MOST could) offer arbitration to a 29 year old miserable corner outfielder with chronic back problems now affecting his power numbers. Jacobs and probably Uggla as well should all be offered up before ALL of baseball realizes they are way beyond the normal Hit and Miss. These 2 just don’t get it at all.

Hard to believe, but all this flotsam and jetsam will bring back a dcent—not very good return. Next year Southern League Player of Year, Gaby Sanchez, takes over at 1B. Coughlin, an OBP machine, at 2B, Ross moves to RF(his real position), DeAza hopefully stays healthy, Maybin and raynor both might make it and you have Baker for whole year as catcher. The Marlins may have employed the least productive collection of catchers in the last 50 years for 1st half of the year.

What do you think of my thoughts, must consider they were made with MONEY at the root of all discussion!!

By Coach (Skip will be missed)

September 6, 2008 6:42 PM | Link to this

Steve, Pudge as a back up would prove much more beneficial for Atlanta than worrying about 2-3 million. I just don’t think that Clint Sammons is big league material.

II love Pat the bats offense even if he is streaky. I hate his attitude and total lack of defense.

Juan Rivera is a super sub. Great fourth outfielder, solid bat, plays both corner OF spots equally well and his defense is superb. He is an upgrade over Diaz or for that matter anybody else that the Braves have played in LF. And he is dirt cheap.

And Steve, you are ignoring his 23 HR 85 RBI .310 BA .362 OBP .525 SLG performance in 2006.

By McFann :ิ:

September 6, 2008 6:43 PM | Link to this

DOB—

Haha…Yeah, bit of a roundabout way, but that’s OK. Your point was clear (I thought, anyway). Actually, your wording was pretty funny…

Thanks! No, you’ll never get him to say he’s beat up and tired. He’s a great dude, but I think he’d have to be on crutches before he’d admit to being beat up.

Did I just say that?

By Brian

September 6, 2008 6:56 PM | Link to this

DOB- Do you know if any of the players read these blogs? I know Chipper was on here awhile back. They ouhta read some of this stuff. I’d like to have a word with JF, and I don’t think I’m alone. THANKS

By cabravesfan

September 6, 2008 6:58 PM | Link to this

McFann- I think you would have a hard time getting Mac to admit he was beat up even if he was on crutches- I’m betting he would say he was fine…just one more reason why he is so easy to like- no excuses, even when they are legit

By ncscoots

September 6, 2008 7:14 PM | Link to this

The idea of acquiring three starters (!) in the offseason makes me give out with a resounding “WTF?”, LOL. Geez, it’s going to be hard enough to parlay the offseason into TWO starters. So hard, in fact, that I think it’s unlikely to happen. Trading for a true impact pitcher will savage the farm system (I’m not against that, BTW), and that guy gets paid, too, if you remember. The FA pitcher market is thin and costly both. There are answers there, but no good ones, IMO.

Frankly, I’d rather the Braves just prospect-whip the Padres for Peavy, sign Hampton to an incentive-laden, 2nd-year-vesting contract, pop Jurrjens at 3, and fill in the back with some of the young depth. Hudson is back in a year, the young stud pitching will be a year closer, so throwing years and dollars at the Garlands and Lowes and whoevers doesn’t seem productive.

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 7:16 PM | Link to this

Jeff, I didn’t talk to him, but I watched him take batting practice without any apparent problem. So I guess he’s OK. Cox said last night he had already planned to rest Francoeur today, then when he got hit that only cemented the decision….

So, ECU … how ‘bout if the Pirates don’t lose a game? They’ve already played their two tough ones, now it’s Conference-USA time. They’ll probably slip and lose one of those games, but if they don’t, that’ll be interesting come BCS time at the end of the season….

By J.D.

September 6, 2008 7:17 PM | Link to this

Brian, I’m pretty sure Frenchy wouldn’t give a rat’s behind what you say to him. I’d save your time and if its really worrying you so much that you need to say something, maybe you need to reevaluate your priorities.

By Steve from OH

September 6, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this

Coach, that’s all good on Pudge, but will he play for 2-3 million as a backup? Or do you think he’d probably like a starting job somewhere? In any case, unless we’ve just got the extra cash lying around, I’d rather invest it in pitching or outfield help. Backup catcher is not a very pressing need at this point.

And Steve, you are ignoring his 23 HR 85 RBI .310 BA .362 OBP .525 SLG performance in 2006.

No, I’m not. Career OBP’s include these things. But I could just as easily say that you’re ignoring his 5 terrible seasons out of 7. In those 5 seasons, he posted OBP’s of .311, .304, .316, .295 and .273. For comparison, Jeff Francoeur’s OBP this season is .291. Rivera’s career EqA is .272, whereas Pat Burrell’s is .291 (Adam Dunn’s is .300). I’m willing to take my chances with Burrell’s defense and “attitude” (I belive you, but I haven’t read anything suggesting he has attitude problems, but I also don’t read Philly papers) for those EqA, OBP and SLG numbers he’s going to put up. In addition, his line against left-handed pitching is .275/.409/.537 for a .946 OPS—this is exactly what we need. His monthly OPS splits are also pretty close, for all of you consistency freaks out there (.881, .930. .765, .869, .858, .820, respectively).

I’m sorry, but I think that Brandon Jones is a better LF candidate than Juan Rivera. If Rivera is in left next season, I’ll be pretty mad.

By McFann :ิ:

September 6, 2008 7:22 PM | Link to this

cabravesfan—

Yer so right! No excuses—gotta LOVE it!

Course, I really don’t wanna ever find out what he’d say if he were on crutches…

By Steve from OH

September 6, 2008 7:26 PM | Link to this

Scoots, I think signing Lowe for two years with an option for a third year makes a lot of sense. I don’t really think that he would go for it, but it doesn’t hurt to offer it. I’d like to see Peavy or Halladay in the fold next season, and I’d inquire about Erik Bedard, too. If we could do a rotation of Peavy, Lowe, JJ, and Hammy/Campillo/Morton etc. I’d say we’re in pretty good shape.

I’m not for “prospect-whipping” anyone, but I think we could make a good offer w/0 giving up Hanson or Heyward, IMO. If we make an offer for Peavy, I’d include Reyes and Parr in a deal, along with Brandon Jones or Gregor Blanco and a few lower-level prospects. I know you probably think I’m stupid for saying this, but I don’t include Hanson in a deal for Peavy. No way.

By McFann :ิ:

September 6, 2008 7:27 PM | Link to this

Chipper! Batting title! Go get it, man!

First pitch double-play? What…?

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 7:28 PM | Link to this

Dukes CRUSH job.

By cabravesfan

September 6, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this

McFann- let’s not even go there…the thought alone is enough to send me into a mild panic…

By Brian

September 6, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this

JD- I don’t remember asking you a damn thing. By the way, my priorities are very much in check. Thanks for caring

By Efrim

September 6, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this

Dukes looks like he should be playing middle linebacker for the Buccaneers.

By McFann :ิ:

September 6, 2008 7:39 PM | Link to this

cabravesfan—

Me, too…me, too…

Hey hey! He walked! Whoo-hoo!

Grove: 0-1, .292.

By Steve from OH

September 6, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this

B-Mac, showin’ off the wheels on that one. Smart baserunning.

By ncscoots

September 6, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this

Steve-OH, “stupid” is the last word that would come to mind on you, brah. Consistently good stuff in your posts…that I don’t always agree with, LOL. Doesn’t change the quality of your stuff.

As far as Hanson in a deal, I can see your logic. The call there is not “Will be as good as the pitcher for whom you’re trading?”, but “Is he so much better than any other pitching prospect in the organization that he becomes nearly irreplaceable?” Whether he’s even on the table for trades depends on the answer to that question.

By McFann :ิ:

September 6, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this

Great hustle by 3BMac on that hit by Kotchman! Nice goin’!

And now they’re winning! Sweet!

By flange1

September 6, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this

STeve in Ohio,

I agree with the offer for Peavy!

They want to cut payroll, Khali make too much. How about Lilli?

Reyes, Parr, Lilli and B Jones.. maybe Rorbaugh?

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 7:51 PM | Link to this

Escobar’s a special player, folks. Not one you move, but one you build with.

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this

They are hitting tape-measure shots off Mr. Hampton.

By McFann :ิ:

September 6, 2008 8:05 PM | Link to this

AAAAA!!

Grove just doubled! Oh………Bad word!

Now he’s at .294—a point above McCann!

By Steve from OH

September 6, 2008 8:07 PM | Link to this

scoots, thanks for the kind words. I enjoy your stuff immensely as well. In response to your second question, I think he is absolutely our best pitching prospect hands down. I like him more than Morton, Reyes, Parr, Rohrbough, et al. He may not be irreplaceable if we keep the rest of those guys along with Locke, Medlen, Redmond, etc. If we’re talking about minor league pitching depth, he is irreplaceable. I like Rohrbough a lot, but I don’t think he’ll ever be as good as Hanson can be. Locke is very projectable, but still raw. Same for Cordier and Teheran. Redmond lacks stuff, from what I’ve read. Hanson is the absolute best combo of stuff, size, advancement, control, etc.

Flange:

I forgot to thank you for the kind words on one of the last blogs, so thanks for those. Anyway, if Parr and Reyes are in that deal, I don’t put Rohrbough in. I’d do an A-ball or Rookie level guy instead (Scott Diamond?). Liked the suggestion, though.

By Brian

September 6, 2008 8:07 PM | Link to this

I got a question about Escobar to anyone but JD. If the Jays or Padres ask for Escobar for Halladay or Peavy, would you do it? I would. God, Hampton looks like Chuck tonight

By McFann :ิ:

September 6, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this

MIKE! Knock it OFF!

My gosh, dude! How many homers are you fixin’ to surrender?

By Efrim

September 6, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this

Steve from OH

I understand what you are saying about Peavy, but if you are the Padres upper management, it would be kind of difficult to go to your fans with a package of Parr, Reyes, Blanco and lower level prospects. And I am guessing those lower level prospects aren’t Heyward or Freeman.

I know they need to cut costs, but Peavy is going to make 8 or 9 million next year. Not too much, even if the payroll is slashed to 40 million

By kirknga

September 6, 2008 8:13 PM | Link to this

Um, perhaps I was a bit optimistic in saying Hampton would win 9 games or so this season.

Oh well.

I still think he’ll be in the mix next season. Unless some team offers him a huge contract.

By McFann :ิ:

September 6, 2008 8:16 PM | Link to this

Oh fer………

STOP IT!!!!

Hey! Escobar crushes one! Nice! Too bad NOBODY WAS ON BASE!

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 8:17 PM | Link to this

Escobar, serious raw strength.

I’m gonna go out on a limb and predict he’ll hit 20 homers in a season either in 2009 or 2010.

By Steve from OH

September 6, 2008 8:17 PM | Link to this

Brian: No way. We’ve got other pieces to move that would enable us to keep Esco. I agree w/ DOB’s assessment that he’s a player to build around.

By kirknga

September 6, 2008 8:21 PM | Link to this

Brian, I would say no for Halladay, and maybe for Peavy. I think Lillibridge can play short well enough so you could think about such a trade.

I think I wouldn’t do it for Halladay because of age, and with Peavy, I think you have to consider the arm injuires. It would be a tough decision and would also depend on what other players would be involved.

By Steve from OH

September 6, 2008 8:22 PM | Link to this

Efrim:

Yeah, so true. I’ll admit, I’m a terrible armchair GM because I’m so dang conservative when it comes to trades. I’m saying Reyes, Parr, Lilli, Jones and a pitcher like Cordier, Scott Diamond, Casey Hodges, David Francis or even Todd Redmond could get it done.

I agree Parr, Reyes and Blanco + lower level prospects is a weak offer.

By ncscoots

September 6, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this

If the Jays or Padres ask for Escobar for Halladay or Peavy, would you do it?

That’s a “no”, for too many reasons to enumerate. Suffice it to say that would only exchange one weakness for another, and doesn’t improve the team.

Two more years in the league and Escobar will be an elite player at arguably the most important defensive position on the field, and provide plus offense at the position. That’s rare coinage, and you don’t go around taking that out of your pocket.

By keylargo

September 6, 2008 8:30 PM | Link to this

Kirknga

Don’t feel alone, I predicted Hampton would go 16 - 10 back in the spring after a good outing.

Little did I know………………

By Brian

September 6, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this

Steve- I’d forgotten I read where Escobar was off limits in trades. That could change but I don’t think it will.

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this

Cormier and Chuck each gave up four homers in a game last season. Having the Braves PR guy check out when last time a Braves pitcher gave up more, but he does know if it happened it was before 2000.

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 8:34 PM | Link to this

Hampton gave up FOUR HOMERS before recording his 13th out. But still only trailed 4-3 after five innings. Strange.

By McFann :ิ:

September 6, 2008 8:37 PM | Link to this

Well, Grove is back to .293. Whoop-dee-doo.

I don’t care about him so much as I wish BMac would get his swing back.

Moreover, I wish Chipper would get some more hits again. He’s really gettin’ in trouble with this Batting Title thing.

By McFann :ิ:

September 6, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this

CAUGHT STEALING!!! Yee-haw!!

That feels good!

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this

Just in case … It’s been 30 years (1978) since a Braves pitcher gave up five homers in a game. Craig Skok.

By Efrim

September 6, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this

Steve from OH

Yea, it’s tough. San Diego needs a lot of pieces. Cutting the payroll won’t help. It would makes some sense to deal Peavy for multiple pieces, but 2 of those pieces have to be one major league player(Kelly Johnson) and at least one top prospect(Tommy Hanson or Jason Heyward). So……no dice. For both teams. I don’t want to deal either. Braves need more than just Jake Peavy, as great as he is.

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 8:47 PM | Link to this

And the other amazing aspect of Skok’s outing: It was in relief.

Yes, he gave up five homers in 2-2/3 innings of relief in a 19-0 loss to Montreal at Fulton County Stadium. Faced 18 batters, gave up nine hits, eight runs, one walk, five homers.

I just found the boxscore online.

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this

That Bonifacio dude can FLY.

By Jeff321

September 6, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this

Chipper Jones gets ate up yet again. I don’t guess moving him BACK to left field is a very good idea at this point!

I am officially on the bandwagon for trading him.. And don’t really care what we get back. Otherwise, he’s going to stay at third base and continue this nonsense! Who really cares about all the hits he gets? How many of them were game winners?

Chipper Jones is a big choker and while his career numbers are admirable.. I only care about what he’s done for me lately.

By kirknga

September 6, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this

keylargo, i think yours was a reasonable prediction. Even though it doesn’t look like it now, I see Hampton as a #3, a 14-16 game winner.

By Efrim

September 6, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this

Jeff321

You are confused my friend.

By Coach (Skip will be missed)

September 6, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this

Steve, you’re missing my point altogether. I view Rivera as an upgrade in that he is a great fourth outfield option in LF or RF, but not as a starter. I’ll be really disappointed if Brandon Jones is the Braves best option in LF come spring training 2009.

Here is a little scouting tip on Rivera, his arm in the outfield is every bit as good as Francoeur’s. Brandon Jones doesn’t have the arm for RF and the Braves view him as strictly a left fielder. In fact, Rivera is having a better season as a back up than any of the Braves starting outfielder’s, which is embarrassing.

And yes, the Braves desperately need a proven veteran back up behind Brian McCann. I’ll take Pudge Rodriguez in that job capacity over anybody else.

I brag about Mike Hampton and he coughs up four dingers and five runs. Not good. I put the hex on him.

By kirknga

September 6, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this

Jeff321, if we trade Chipper, who plays 3rd? And how do you make up the offense you’re going to lose?

I don’t believe Chipper is going anywhere because as long as he’s on the team, the Braves can claim they want to win.

By Brian

September 6, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this

Jeff321- YOUR DRUNK!! SOBER UP, SON!!

By Brian

September 6, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this

Jeff321- YOUR DRUNK!! SOBER UP, SON!!

By Brian

September 6, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this

Jeff321- YOUR DRUNK!! SOBER UP, SON!!

By Brian

September 6, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this

Jeff321- YOU’RE DRUNK!! SOBER UP, BUDDY!!

By Coach (Skip will be missed)

September 6, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this

Exactly right O’Brien.

Brian McCann, Yunel Escobar, Jair Jurrjens, Charlie Morton and Casey Kotchman are untradeable. These five are the present and future.

By McFann ิ

September 6, 2008 9:18 PM | Link to this

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!

Why must you keep swinging at CRUD??

So Chipper FINALLY gets a hit, and this is how you guys thank him?

By keylargo

September 6, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this

kirknga - I’m with you on Hampton. I’ll settle for 16 - 10 in 2009 as an amended prediction.

By Jeff321

September 6, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this

Confused, eh?

Efrim - So, are you disputing that Chipper Jones has no range, a weak arm, and gets ate up all the time?

kirknga Well, the Braves could get a stud third baseman in the trade! Or better yet, use someone they already have. (For instance - Infante is better defensively at third than Chipper.)

Btw, do you think the Reds or Pirates have a better chance winning without Griffey & Dunn? We are one of the absolute worst in MLB record wise. Its time to act like it.

Ah, making up for the offense really doesn’t matter. See, we’re not going to be in contention until 2011-2012 at the earliest. So, why not get something for Chipper Jones now?

By Steve from OH

September 6, 2008 9:23 PM | Link to this

Coach, I wouldn’t say Juan Rivera is having a better season than any of the Braves’ starting OF. From a SLG perspective, sure, but from an OBP perspective? Not a chance. Jeff Francoeur is OBPing 20 points higher than Juan Rivera right now. That’s pretty sad. What about your boy Josh Anderson? He’s having a much better (albeit short) year. Gregor Blanco has a slightly higher OPS+ than Rivera. Juan Rivera has an OBP of .273 and an OPS+ of 80

If you’re talking 4th OF, that’s fine. As a starter? No way in heck. Like I said before, I’d really like Pat Burrell. If we’re talking Pat Burrell vs. Juan Rivera (which I don’t think we are), then there’s really no debate.

I would also be disappointed if Brandon Jones was our best option as a starting LF, but he’s a better option than Rivera as a starter.

By Jeff321

September 6, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this

Correction

I meant Dunn & Bay not Griffey/Dunn.

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this

Hampton had only given up four homers in nine starts this season before he gave up four in his first 12 outs.

Actually, he’d only given up four in about 37 months before he gave up four tonight. (get it? OK, it’s late)

By BossLady

September 6, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this

Inman Park Village is an exclusive area with condos and homes ranging from $250K to $1-2 million. The area is occupied with business owners, artist types and self-employed internet owners.

I would think Don and anyone that opened up over there will have big money to earn.

People who owned large homes in my area sold and moved into the city. The new restaurants and coffee shops are New York like.

I don’t call that Yuppie, I call it successful people living goood.

By rmf

September 6, 2008 9:33 PM | Link to this

Is it my imagination or is Frenchy starting to show some signs of life in the last couple of weeks, albeit four months too late.

By Efrim

September 6, 2008 9:34 PM | Link to this

Jeff321

Efrim - So, are you disputing that Chipper Jones has no range, a weak arm, and gets ate up all the time?

Never said he had great range, he doesn’t, it’s below average. I wouldn’t say he has a weak arm. He makes the plays he gets to, I will say that.

Trading Chipper might make some sense, if you plan on wanting to suck the next 2 seasons. The management doesn’t, it isn’t happening.

Moving him to first? Only if you can find a third baseman with a lot better defensive skills than Chipper, and who could also bring better potential offense than Casey Kotchman- because he is obviously getting traded if you move Chipper to first.

By Steve from OH

September 6, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this

Jeff321:

Oh, God. Infante at third instead of Chipper? I’m beginning to think that you are drunk. I’m already half-hysterical and I’ve only read half of your post.

I will dispute that Chipper’s range, arm, are below average. And even if they are, his .350 EqA says that this doesn’t matter one doggone bit.

I disagree that we won’t compete until 2011-12. Too many pieces and too much cash for that to happen. A few savvy moves this offseason, and we compete next year.

Real bad break on that KJ double. Coulda been the game-winner.

By cabravesfan

September 6, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this

damn it! This game should be over!

By cabravesfan

September 6, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this

it is nice, however, to see Kelly come through in the clutch

By Jeff321

September 6, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this

Fair enough, Efrim. However, I really don’t think Chipper makes a difference one way or the other. Basically, we’re in fourth now with or without Chipper.. Sorta like how Tex didn’t make a bit of difference.

I think Kelly Johnson would catch a lot less slack for his paltry defense if he would hit like this regularly! I know its been brought up before about his slumps.. With that said, I always liked KJ and think he’s a great hitter. But, like him much better in left field.

Also its good to see Kotchan showing everyone how on earth he managed 107 hits for the Angels this year.

Wow, Gonzo just got jacked.

By Efrim

September 6, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this

How about we keep Kelly for one more year folks. As well as Jeff. Make three free agent signings. Two pitchers, one right handed hitting left fielder. The trade for a young starter.

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 9:45 PM | Link to this

If that ball bounces off the wall instead of over it, Braves win. But that wouldn’t be appropriate in this Braves season, now would it? So it’s a ground-rule double and Lil’ Bridge has to go back to third.

Then Mac, who earlier in the year would’ve won the game, hits a little bouncer to end the inning.

By kirknga

September 6, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this

Jeff321, ah, well see you added in something. You believe the Braves will not contend before 2011-2012.

I don’t believe that as of now. I’ll wait to see what they do this offseason.Because of that, I don’t see trading away a HOF 3rd baseman who makes the lineup better.

Comparing the Braves with the Pirates and Reds doesn’t work for me. At the start of ST, the Braves imagined a rotation of Smoltz, Hudson, Glavine, Hampton, and JJ. With a pen that was to include a healthy Moylan and Soriano, soon to be joined by Gonzalez. Not to mention a lineup with Tex and Kotsay.

In other words, the Braves were more talented than either of those teams until injuries. I can’t pretend that the Braves started out on the same level as the Pirates and Reds and are in the same position talent wise or payroll wise.

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this

It’ll be 7-28 in one-run games, 2-9 in extra-inning games.

By Brian

September 6, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this

Now, is it OK to start the Cox bashing bringing in Gonzalez when he’s struggled in these situations? Oh well

By keylargo

September 6, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this

I wonder how long it will take before someone blames KJ for the ground rule double, instead of just a regular double, as the reason we lose the game?

By Jeff321

September 6, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this

Bobby Cox bets on playing Infante in left field and loses again. But, bringing Gonzo in was a great move.

However, unless Gonzo is hurt, I see no reason in yanking him now. I mean, we’re already down by two.

By Steve from OH

September 6, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this

Jeff, I just don’t think we have any chance of competing without Chipper next season. Like I’ve said before, we’ve got a few large holes to fill, so why don’t we fill them and avoid creating other holes (3B, SS, 2B, RF, etc.). I agree w/ Efrim’s 9:44. Much of the reason we’re in 4th is bullpen injuries, pitching injuries and bad luck (1 run losses). Let’s just be patient, make a few savvy acquisitions, and let the guys play like they’re capable of.

For the record (wasn’t clear in my last post) I don’t think Chipper’s great on D, but I do think he’s average/adequate. His offense is just too good to just give up because he gets “ate up” too much. He’s got 2-3 more good years in him, IMO.

By Jake

September 6, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this

I think its appropriate to say that if this team didn’t have bad luck, they would have no luck at all. Running on the pitch with two outs Lillibridge scores easily. Any other runner but Mac and we win. Langerhans who had hit one homerun all year hits only his second. Omar Infante, the worst outfielder on the field at the time has the ball find him, Zimmerman has a hit that just finds the line, and Dukes with an emergency swing flares a hit right over KJ’s head(the person who should have one this game).

By Steve from OH

September 6, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this

Mississippi leading 2-0. Kris Medlen throwing a gem, 7 IP, 4H, OER, and 11K (0BB). Yet another legit prospect in our system.

By McFann ิ

September 6, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this

I…have…no…comment.

Night.

By Efrim

September 6, 2008 10:07 PM | Link to this

Derek Lowe would make a lot of sense for this team. I know he is 35 at the start of next season, but a 2-3 year deal worth 9-10 million? Not bad. I really hope they stay away from guys like Jon Garland Kyle Lohse. They just don’t miss enough bats, and if we are keeping Kelly, as much as I love his offensive game, he lacks some range. Add him to Chipper, and that is two infielders with below average range. Starting pitchers whp are striking out 4 guys per 9 innings should be signed to any type of long term deals. I also like Randy Wolf for next years rotation….if the money is right.

By Efrim

September 6, 2008 10:11 PM | Link to this

Kris Medlen has 11 K’s through 7 IP. Only 4 hits allowed. 0 BB’s. Wow.

I know he is short, but this kid sure looks like a potential starter to me.

By Tomas

September 6, 2008 10:12 PM | Link to this

Well played game but some tough luck prevented the Braves from a win. Obviously the Kelly Johnson double that should have scored 3 runs, instead it only drove two because it bounced over the wall, and two bloop hits for the nats that drove in runs. Please tell me is there some kind of witchcraft at that dugout. The Braves deserved the win.

By charphar

September 6, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this

I agree with the two simple uniforms premise. Now if we could only bring back the “Laughing Brave” logo, that would be very cool! And how about a “Laughing Brave” bobblehead while we’re at it!

By Steve from OH

September 6, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this

Tomas:

Maybe Greg Norton and Buddy Carlyle have been stealing Jobu’s rum?

By Efrim

September 6, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this

Starting pitchers whp are striking out 4 guys per 9 innings should be signed to any type of long term deals.

I meant shouldn’t. Eeesh.

By Tomas

September 6, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this

Brian, you think bringing your closer on a tie game in extra’s at home was a bad move. Are you serious. I think Bobby has made all the right moves lately, he is running more, and he is making the right choices with pitchers and pinch hitters, also organizing the lineup. What more do you expect from a manager. He has made a lot of dumb moves during this long season, but lately he is learning from his mistakes.

By Random

September 6, 2008 10:42 PM | Link to this

richbrave: “Thanx bud”

De nada, mi amigo.

I’ve got my fingers crossed, too.

(In fact, let me go right now and check my email — it’s been a while now.)

…

YES doGdammit!!! Yes!!!

I got an email from furman@ajc.com — lemme just copy/paste it here:

“Dan: I’ll be glad to do a CJones-Mathews comparison, but give me a week or so. I’ll be away at St. Simons NExt week, but my e-mail machine wo0n’t change. Let me do some research. I don’ want to go firing off without proper ammunition. —-fb”

Way to go richbrave — your good idea seems to be flying.

All we can do now is anticipate.

How sweet it is!!!

PS: (I am definitely gonna reply to Mr Bisher with our thanks, and the clarification that it wasn’t my idea, but yours.)

Hasta manana, chico.

By Steve from OH

September 6, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this

Medlen threw a complete game shutout, 12K, 5H, and 0BB. Mississippi advances to Southern League Championship series.

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this

hey, at least it wasn’t a one-run loss (he says, waiting for tomatoes to fly from stage left….)

By Couch Tater

September 6, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this

Kudos to the Braves fans who attended. I never expected over 34,000 at this one with the Dawgs home and on TV. To bad a bad bounce robbed us of a W.

Bravehearta win is a win.

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 11:05 PM | Link to this

From my game story:

Gonzalez has a 0.93 ERA in nine appearances in save situations, but he’s 0-2 with a 6.75 ERA in 17 non-save situations.

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this

Brian, I think you’ve got road and home turned around on the closer situation. You use your closer in a tie game at home, not on the road (though I would’ve used him a couple of times recently on the road with this worn-out ‘pen).

By David O'Brien

September 6, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this

Jeff321, Chipper had a bad night. But not NEARLY as bad a night as you had, my friend.

By MIBravesFan

September 6, 2008 11:13 PM | Link to this

DOB: “If that ball bounces off the wall instead of over it, Braves win. But that wouldn’t be appropriate in this Braves season, now would it? So it’s a ground-rule double and Lil’ Bridge has to go back to third.

Then Mac, who earlier in the year would’ve won the game, hits a little bouncer to end the inning.”

That play was the season in microcosm - the ball never bounced the right way all season long, in any sense of the phrase.

By Brian

September 6, 2008 11:26 PM | Link to this

Tomas- To me, it’s Bobby’s stubornous that makes me mad sometimes. Who’s to say we’re going to score our next at bat anyway? I mean, Gonzo is awesome but not in those situations. Right now at least. Then again, you may be right. Bobby has made some good desicions alot lately so I could be wrong.

By richbrave

September 6, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this

RANDOM:

Oyeme? Sabes mucho espagnol, eh? Gracias amigo, gracias. Yo espero leerlo pronto tambien. Manana.

By Game Notes

September 6, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this

I went to the game tonight — got there early enough to see the Braves’ BP.

Found my seats, and after the Braves were finished, took a little snooze during the Nats’ BP.

…

Woke up about 6:30 and moseyed on down to the Budweiser “Chop” Pavilion.

I’d been standing there for ten or fifteen minutes, wallowing in the bonhomie and fellow-feeling, leaning on the rail and watching Triple Mac (with Cheese) signing balls and caps and what-have-you on the warning track in right center field, when I turned to the fellow on my right and, as an opening conversational gambit, asked him “Are you a Braves fan?”

“Yes, I am”, he replied, offendedly.

Off-handedly, I asked him “What outfield bat do you think the Braves should go after in the off-season?”

“I don’t know”, he huffed.

“Well, what front-line pitcher do you think the Braves should pursue, either as a free agent or in a trade?” I persisted.

“I don’t know”, he repeated.

I could not restrain myself.

“I thought you said you were a Braves fan”, I essayed sardonically.

“I am!” he insisted.

(Yeah, right.)

It’d be easy for me to say now (and even easier for you to believe) that the conversation went downhill from there.

However, I deftly steered it to a mild and inoffensive exchange of opinions on the Braves’ weaknesses in general. (He opined that even before any injuries the Braves’ pitching sucked. I forbore disabusing him of this asinine opinion.)

Boy, was HE and idiot!!!!!

…

Later on, back in my seats, I overheard a guy behind me tell his girlfriend when Hampton came up to bat in the bottom of the 2nd, “I don’t know what’s going on — Bobby usually pinch hits for the pitcher when there’s someone [Blanco?] on base.”

Truer words were never spoken — “I don’t know what’s going on.”

…

Hampton’s been high with his pitches all night long — four of them balls he shoulda kissed before he threw ‘em, ‘cause they all went bye-bye, never to be seen (by him) again.

…

Now, in the bottom of the 5th, Hampton fouls one way back high behind the plate, to the fellow 2 rows in front of me and 6 seats to the right.

He drops it, but the couple who pick it up give it back to him.

Oh, well — maybe I made it on TV, in the background crowd.

(I’m wearing a black baseball cap with a red bill, and the most evillest pair of evil eyes you’ve ever seen above the bill. In twisted memory of the Chattanooga Lookouts.

…

Well, I’ve left after 6 innings (I’m on the Braves shuttle now) — I was just a wee bit nervous (edgy, frantic, morbidly paranoid) about maybe missing the last bus back to the ‘burbs.

Hampton was still in when I left, with the Braves trailing 3-4.

…

Home again, home again — the game’s over by now (I figure). The better team (by tautological definition) won, as always. Don’t know the score.

By Kentavo

September 6, 2008 11:36 PM | Link to this

Okay, I have never liked the whole bring the closer in for a tie game scenario.

Especially, when it’s Gonzalez.

DOB’s stats prove the point. For whatever reason, Gonzo only pitches well if it’s a save situation.

But of course, everyone can see that except Cox, who keeps trying to shove a square peg into a round hole… over and over and over

“0-2 with a 6.75 ERA in 17 non-save situations”

Does that not sream out “don’t use Gonzo unless it’s a save situation”?

I know that’s limiting, but hey, the guy is coming back from T.J. surgery and has proven that he can get the save. He has not proven that he can pitch when it’s not a save situation.

I wonder how many times a young Booby Cox stuck his finger in a light socket before he figured out that’s what was shocking him?

By Brian

September 6, 2008 11:40 PM | Link to this

Well, I think this is something we can all agree on. If these were the New York, Boston, or LA Braves this team would labled one of the hardest lucked on the cover of SI. ESPN would spend half a show talking about how in the world a team could lose so many close games and have so many injuries to key guys. But since it’s Atlanta they probably laugh because there are no ties. We fans are feeling though, that’s for sure.

By Dave

September 6, 2008 11:42 PM | Link to this

I like the blue jersey, and the all-blue hat. I think it’s time, though, for the Braves to have a new look for next year, both in uniform and who wears it. Go with clean and simple; retire the tomahawk, and put a number on the front (dump the red top—use the blue jersey on Sundays/whenever). Use the all blue hat, and I’m glad someone mentioned the laughing Brave.

Not only that, but how about a team that plays station-to station offense, and doesn’t rely on the long ball so much. Clean house in the pitching department, and get a bullpen which doesn’t blow a 10-0 lead. The Braves owe it to Bobby Cox to let him go out a winner when he finally retires.

By bruce

September 6, 2008 11:42 PM | Link to this

David your 5:25 about the milk running down the wall when you walked in made me laugh harder than a comedy club show tonight, its so funny it made me laugh to type it. wow. thanks for correcting me the other day on Kotchman’s mom going home from the hospital. I just misread it I guess…. I was so happy to read that one part, about getting out of ICU that I must have skipped the rest of the sentence. Thanks, Bruce

By Moby Grape

September 6, 2008 11:46 PM | Link to this

Escobar, serious raw strength.

I’m gonna go out on a limb and predict he’ll hit 20 homers in a season either in 2009 or 2010.DOB

No question that he is strong enough to perhaps hit 20, but I wonder if his hitting mechanics will make it likely with that front shoulder tucked down.

By Oscar DeLaurent

September 6, 2008 11:49 PM | Link to this

The blue jerseys must go. The blue hats must go.

But I hope they keep the nice blue purses that I designed for them.

Mike Hampton looks marvelous with his shiny blue purse.

By Random

September 6, 2008 11:50 PM | Link to this

richbrave —

Here’s the text of my reply to Mr Bisher:

Mr Bisher—

Thank you so much for your prompt reply, and (of course) even more so for your consideration of our suggestion/request.

Please let me hasten to make clear that it wasn’t my idea for the column, but richbrave’s — I have just been lucky enough to be the merry midwife.

And as an aside, please allow me to give you a few good words about richbrave himself — a long-time contributor to the Braves beat blog, richbrave (stationed in Richmond, VA) has done a yeoman’s effort in keeping us here apprised of the state of the Richmond Braves and their players, as well as providing us with his insights and evaluations of various Braves’ minor leaguers.

I have no doubt at all that both Mr O’Bien and Ms Rogers will whole-heartedly second this emotion — richbrave has been a highly valued and invaluable participant in their blog.

Thanks again, sir. And enjoy the heck out of St Simons!

xx (“Random”)

finis

And now, let’s put into practice the old saw that says:

“They also serve who only sit and wait”.

(-8

By Dave

September 6, 2008 11:52 PM | Link to this

I like the blue jersey, and the all-blue hat. I think it’s time, though, for the Braves to have a new look for next year, both in uniform and who wears it. Go with clean and simple; retire the tomahawk, and put a number on the front (dump the red top—use the blue jersey on Sundays/whenever). Use the all blue hat, and I’m glad someone mentioned the laughing Brave.

Not only that, but how about a team that plays station-to station offense, and doesn’t rely on the long ball so much. Clean house in the pitching department, and get a bullpen which doesn’t blow a 10-0 lead. The Braves owe it to Bobby Cox to let him go out a winner when he finally retires.

By Jake

September 7, 2008 12:03 AM | Link to this

I think Bobby made the right call. This is just something Gonzalez has to figure out for himself. He can pitch and pitch well in non save situations. He was brought into this game to hold it right there. When you want to hold the game right there you bring in your best pitcher and that was Gonzalez. I know it was non-save situation, but he did it last year. Before he got hurt last year he was the setup guy and he converted the holds. It’s just been that the two games that he just lost he was not locating well. The guy can’t be perfect all the time still coming back from tommy john.

By Drexel Gal

September 7, 2008 12:30 AM | Link to this

While I am all in favor of traditional uniforms, don’t forget the 1979 Pirates, who won the World Series with some of the most awful puke-colored combinations of clown suits ever seen … bad, even by 1970s standards. Of course, don’t overlook the 1972-73-74 Oakland A’s, who won three in a row with their green and gold pajamas.

By bravos2249

September 7, 2008 12:31 AM | Link to this

DOB

I don’t like that GONZO stat

if a runner had got on base and Gonzo came in that’d be a save situation if for ex: Tavarez or whoever else started the 9th BUT….I don’t think that era is right though( in a commone sense way)..because they base it on when he comes in right. But regardless of the rules in baseball to HIM, if the game is tied or we are up by less than 5 ,if 1 or 2 runners get on, it’s a save-like situation for him. You know?

By Whittaker Chambers

September 7, 2008 12:32 AM | Link to this

Game Notes = Random

By David Greenglass

September 7, 2008 12:34 AM | Link to this

Random = Whittaker Chambers

By uga-brave

September 7, 2008 12:46 AM | Link to this

wayne,

in utah, i miss your levity.

either that, doomed with random.

random aint so bad, random does not hate us , random is pretty cool.

flange likes uga, braveheart likes uga, even when uga is drunk.

flange my good friend. uga is pretty close to being out.

By Pepperidge Blogs Remembers

September 7, 2008 12:59 AM | Link to this

BravesFan79: “Decatur IS a s!!!-hole!!”

BravesFan79: “Blacks make up 13% of the population in america….yet over 55% of the AIDS population!Black males are over 20 TIMES more likely to have Syphillis than whites, and Black males leave over 70% of their kids with NO fathers!”

By bravos2249

September 7, 2008 12:59 AM | Link to this

OMG

I was just watching ESPN and a commerical came on and it was a baseball one and the manager I believe called the pen and asked “Who should I put in?” The bullpen coach turned around and said

“Whose ready?”

and then he just picked a random one and the guy came in and the announcers questioned it and the guy gave up the tying hit in the 9th and then a flash later th announcer says 15th inning…pop up to right, and the player fell down and missed it and he said

“Man this game will never end.”It was for Buffalo Wild Wings

Reminded me of the Braves.

By Pepperidge Blogs Remembers

September 7, 2008 1:13 AM | Link to this

uga-brave: “either that, doomed with random… . random aint so bad, random does not hate us , random is pretty cool.”

Thanks, dawg, but that’s a pretty tough sell around here.

Take care — give yer mom the keys.

(That ain’t nuttin’ on you — just an obscure reference to a tiff I had with nOLIE many months ago (back when she was still “nOLIE”).)

By Random

September 7, 2008 1:19 AM | Link to this

Oops.

By StingerSplash

September 7, 2008 1:20 AM | Link to this

Wait a minute, DOB. If Roger Waters turning 65 makes you feel old, then what does remembering the Pat Dye era while selling Cokes at Dowdy-Ficklen for EZU games do? (had a friend who went to EZU and I have a friend who works there now. And Skip Holtz may wind up being a better coach than his daddy).

By uga-brave

September 7, 2008 1:28 AM | Link to this

heck radom,

i domt know you,

but penn state, looks really good.

clake reminds me of michael robinson. robinson took the blue and white a long ways,

By uga-brave

September 7, 2008 1:39 AM | Link to this

braveheart, is in, uga-brave is in, random is in.

random has got to be in right?

maybe?

By nolie

September 7, 2008 3:24 AM | Link to this

Take care — give yer mom the keys.

(That ain’t nuttin’ on you — just an obscure reference to a tiff I had with nOLIE many months ago (back when she was still “nOLIE”).)Whoever

huh? I’m still nolie-for Seminoles BTW(it’s just that they have gotten so bad that they really don’t deserve any capital letters anymore), and I ain’t never been a she and iffen thar were a tiff then you musta started it cause I’m too sweet n luvable to do that myself.was that as Boor or one of your many other avatars?actually I like you much bertter since you integrated all the various parts of you personality and became less schitzo -for the most part. But no question that you are an acquired taste, and might be a hard sell to some. and how is your mom anyway?hope she’s still ok and lets you have enough lectricity down there in the basement sos you won’t ruint your eyes amd enough water in the shower to keep the BO from getting toooo bad.

By Random

September 7, 2008 4:09 AM | Link to this

nolie —

Cuttin’ thru it all, I conclude I owe you a “thnkee”. I think. (But talk about back-handed compliments … )

And, yeah — yer right; I did start it, by taking to obnoxiously affront to your eagerness to hang Clemens afore he’d even been indicted.

What’chall doin’ up so late?

I think history has certainly proved me wrong on the facts, but I do insist that I was still (and always will be) right on the principle — innocent until proven guilty.

By Random

September 7, 2008 4:20 AM | Link to this

PS: nolie: “how is your mom anyway? hope she’s still ok and lets you have enough lectricity down there in the basement sos you won’t ruint your eyes amd enough water in the shower to keep the BO from getting toooo bad.”

Lectric’s just fine (it all goes to the cable TV), but she is beechin’ about the water bill — I’ve been havin’ too many three-flush toids that just can’t make it through that turkey-necked terlet she’s got down there. I’ve had to divert the water pipes from the shower to the carpper.

However, BO ain’t no problem — dontcha just know that the ladees love that kind of musky odor in their men?

(And it mostly skeers other mens off, so I don’t havta th’ow down more’n once’t or twice’t a week anymore.)

By nolie

September 7, 2008 4:30 AM | Link to this

And, yeah — yer right; I did start it, by taking to obnoxiously affront to your eagerness to hang Clemens afore he’d even been indicted.Random

there was a lot of facetiousness in that post about him and his wife that I think you just missed. I did believe he cheated because guys I still know from a few teams all talked about it for years just like Palmeiro), but I never seriously cared much about the users, I was just kinda POed about the way he attacked everybody. I gotta admit that I was surprised when you attacked what I thought was a pretty funny post. Oh well, water over the bridge (I know it should be under the bridge but I’m still in hurricane mode with Ike headed this way). Back-handedness aside I do always read you, I even agree….once in a while

By Random

September 7, 2008 4:51 AM | Link to this

PPS: nolie: “how is your mom anyway?”

Oh, she’s fine — so far, so good.

She’s having her gut cut open later on this month, to get an aortic aneurism exorcised.

Who knows — if all goes well, I may soon very well be the proud owner of my very own basement.

Cross your fingers for me (or, if you’re some kind of bleeding heart, heart on your sleeve, sleeveless, strapless lingerie — waitaminnit, I think I got off track — if you’re some kind of human being with a human “heart” and/or a human “soul”, you can cross your fingers for her. She’s as nervous as ten cats tied together about it, and could use some crossed fingers. Thanks.)

By Random

September 7, 2008 5:15 AM | Link to this

nolie —

Thanks again.

I’ll have to go back and check it out — I’ll be honest with you, the humor probably went right over my head just as fast as the water goes over those lowland bridges of yours.

(Ten, twenty (five?) years from now, you can join me on my Appalachian island.)

By Random

September 7, 2008 5:43 AM | Link to this

Drexel Gal: “While I am all in favor of traditional uniforms”

I wouldn’t mind seeing you in a “traditional” uniform. In fact, I’d be “in favor” of it.

I used to live is west Filly, and got to see Drexel in the Palestra. A buddy of mine, who I had known at UGA, was also going to the graduate pharmacy school there.

I learned ALL of my current obnoxiousness by just trying to push a cart down the aisles of the grocery store while I was living in Philadelphia.

PS: that first paragraph? It’s very, very late, and I’m feeling very, very naughty. My apologies to you and your parents. No hard feelings? (That’s a query, not a request.)

<-;

By nolie

September 7, 2008 6:15 AM | Link to this

Oh, she’s fine — so far, so good.

She’s having her gut cut open later on this month, to get an aortic aneurism exorcised.

Who knows — if all goes well, I may soon very well be the proud owner of my very own basement.Random

Thats some major-league surgery. It’s good though that they think that they can safely operate on it;ofttimes it’s too much of a risk to even try. Best wishes to her and I hope everything goes for the best even though you won’t get your very own basement.

By nolie

September 7, 2008 6:21 AM | Link to this

BTW Random how do you go about looking up something that far back?

By ncscoots

September 7, 2008 7:24 AM | Link to this

Medlen threw a complete game shutout, 12K, 5H, and 0BB. Mississippi advances to Southern League Championship series.

This kid is a perfect example of why you do NOT get married to an opinion of a minor leaguer during the development phase. I’ve seen him in the minors the past two years (but, this year, prior to his conversion to starter), and saw nothing to suggest he could beat the 5’10”-low 90s-righty odds and become a successful major leaguer. His recent numbers tend to defy that opinion.

Not that he still doesn’t have to overcome those odds against him. And since I haven’t seen him pitch as a starter, I don’t know what he’s doing differently (could all be just AA smoke and mirrors, I guess). But his K rate has soared, and that’s never a bad thing for a developing pitcher.

Now, if he could just grow 5 inches and put on 40 pounds, LOL. “Six-four-230” didn’t become a cliche for nothing.

By Mitchell

September 7, 2008 8:28 AM | Link to this

Okay, I wrote this last night at like midnight but something got screwed up and it didn’t post. So here it is again, like new.

And yes, I did cut and paste it. That’s the kind of guy I am. My words are so deep they must be preserved for my own personal posterity.

One last time… who’s excited?

“The Braves have absolutely the best uniform in all of baseball. I think our boy O’Brien is on to something here. The different colored uniforms are always a sign of a team trying to change something about itself. In that way it’s no different than a player trying to break out of a slump.

If it wasn’t for the fact that our record in Sunday games, especially at home, has been relatively not bad over the last two years (as far as I can remember), I’d say that the red jerseys are pushing it.

In a way, I do kinda like the blue road jerseys but if it wasn’t for losing the first game of the season in Washington D.C. in walk-off fashion, in front of a national TV audience, I’d saying they too are robbing the Braves of what lingering aura they may still possess.

Too many teams use too many alternate jerseys. Too many of those teams either lack an original, classic design, suck or both.

It would be hard to say that the two don’t tend to go hand in hand more often than not.

Could that have been a more convoluted statement? No, probably not.

Could the Braves and me have suffered a crueler fate in their game tonight against the Washington Nationals? Not even close.

The only scenario that could have presented a more thrilling ending to a game than what almost happened this evening would be a grand slam homerun to overcome a three run deficit with two outs and a full count in the 9th inning. I don’t know my poker none too much but I think you could call that a 5 of a Kind.

A bases loaded double with two outs, down two runs would have been fine with me. I want to say that would have been a Royal Flush.

F*, I don’t know. Whatever.

I’m so hurt by that. I’m a p*y, I’ll admit it. I just feel like somebody just stole my bike or something. If I was a kid and if that game mattered even half as much as any game they’ve played in three years I’d by crying like a little b***. I could still probably go for my blanky after that one.

Ground rule doubles are the worst F-ing things in the history of sports.

I missed the game all the way up the 9th and was listening in my car on the radio when Anderson struck out. I got home just in time to see Kelly.

I gotta say, I don’t blame Gonzo or Julio and I love Kelly for being so clutch, for once, but I almost wish he had just struck out. And I knew we’d lose in extra innings.

I really want to leave it at that but GD, Brian is so f^#$&@* slow. I can’t believe he couldn’t get to first base on that play. Anybody else and it would have been over. But even that would have been a disappointment compared to Kelly’s double staying in the damn stadium.

I want my blanky. There’re monsters in my closet. Read me a bed-time story. Anybody…

God I’m a douche bag.”

God I’m a douche bag.

By Random

September 7, 2008 8:57 AM | Link to this

Mitchell: “My words are so deep they must be preserved for my own personal posterity.”

You’ve got a typo there, bro — I think you meant “posterior”.

No, no, don’t thank me — I live to serve.

By richbrave

September 7, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this

RANDOM:

Avast there mate-y.!! This old Tidewater Virginia sea dog is glad to see you are a believer in the Appalachian Island theory also. Been trying to get my anchor(wife) hauled up and moved west to the Blue Ridge for decades. If she ever sees the ocean at our front door here in RICHMOND, she’ll be willin’, but of course, much too late. We are right at 300 feet above sea level, the prognostication for some of the more drastic models relating to the global warming rise in sea level over the next hundred years. Land values on the tops of those ridges will sky-rocket RANDOM. You’re on a gold-mine. Buy land. Pass it on to the next generation. Once they see NEW ORLEANS and half of LOUISIANA disappear into the GULF of MEXICO they’ll become believers, and the rush will be on. Have a great Sunday. “Life comes at you fast.”

By richbrave

September 7, 2008 9:45 AM | Link to this

Why is it a kiss of death for the arms on this team.? Not just the overworked bull-pen, but the starters can’t go for half a game anymore without major injuries. Where’s LEO when you need him.? Does BOBBY hate him so much that he can’t return.?

By Random

September 7, 2008 9:45 AM | Link to this

nolie: “BTW Random how do you go about looking up something that far back?”

doG, dude, I swear, I just poured two hours into answering your question, posted it and it never appeared.

But the little trashy piece of nothing I posted after that is here, all right, at 8:57.

And I composed it all in this little a* box and don’t have a copy.

doGdammit to h3ll!!!

I’m gonna do it again, but later, okay?

PS: Man, could that doGdam dumbaxe Mitchell’s post have knocked mine aside? doGdammit. Maybe it was scoots/westy. Whatever.

By Frank

September 7, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this

Uniform changes this season reflects marketing strategies. Distract from the obvious lack of talent on the field, generate fan interest and sell more concessions, souvenirs. It also points to a more subconscious undercurrent of change in the organization, ie. new general manager, aging veterans of past glory, tons of new blood, and dare we say it, a possible a transition to new leadership on the coaches bench. This is a transitory year and possibly next year, too. Bobby Cox is in his swan-song days, and next year will only drag it out even more. I have loved the guy all these years, but it is time to hand the baton over to someone who can pump some energy into the young and veteran alike. Who that will be is a subject for completely different blog… .

By richbrave

September 7, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this

RE: LEO MAZZONE from a previous post.

Or have the BRAVES give him a two year contract in October when the BALTIMORE one expires.? That should be “long-term” enough for a man out of baseball.

By jim

September 7, 2008 10:18 AM | Link to this

DOB,

Thanks for the information on KJ. To put his streakiness in context, could you break down the month-by-month performance numbers of Chipper, BMac, Yunel, and Tex? Also could you include those for Utley and Uggla? We know that KJ is a streaky hitter, but I’m willing to bet that his numbers are not as radically out of line with the fluctuations in performance of other major league players as they seem to suggest when viewed out of context.

By Random

September 7, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this

jim: “Thanks for the information on KJ. To put his streakiness in context, could you break down the month-by-month performance numbers of Chipper, BMac, Yunel, and Tex? Also could you include those for Utley and Uggla?”

You can check all that out for yourself here at MLB.com’ stats page.

Just plug in the name of who you want to check out in the “PlayerSearch” section, and once you get to his career stats page (the default), click on “GAME BY GAME LOG”.

Piece a’ cake, m’man — it gives you day by day numbers, and monthly totals for the current season.

Cheers!

PS: maybe you could let that be your homework assignment — no doubt DOB’s got plenty enough arns in the far of his own.

<-;

By David O'Brien

September 7, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this

To put his streakiness in context, could you break down the month-by-month performance numbers of Chipper, BMac, Yunel, and Tex? Also could you include those for Utley and Uggla?Jim

I could, if I didn’t have to shower and get to the ballpark in the next 30 minutes, then go straight to the clubhouse when I get there, then get upstairs and write a new blog before the game begins.

By David O'Brien

September 7, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this

If Roger Waters turning 65 makes you feel old, then what does remembering the Pat Dye era while selling Cokes at Dowdy-Ficklen for EZU games do?StingerSplash

Yeah, and it wasn’t even Dowdy-Ficklen back then. Just Ficklen.

By Steve from OH

September 7, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this

jim, baseball-reference.com also has a page where you can get splits for career or year(2008, 2007, etc.).

By richbrave

September 7, 2008 10:50 AM | Link to this

Go get that shower Dave. We’re ready for today’s game-day blog.

By Josh

September 7, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this

Even though Random’s info probably prompted jim to look up his desired info on his own, I just spent 8 agonizing minutes copying and pasting this from B-R, and making it not look crazy in ms word.

OPS By Month - 2008

Kelly Johnson

March/April - .726 May - .973 June - .723 July - .661 August - .577 September – 1.495

Chipper Jones

March/April – 1.145 May – 1.152 June - .995 July - .850 August - .873 September – .721

Brian McCann

March/April - .854 May - 1.075 June - .776 July – 1.145 August - .776 September – .310

Mark Teixeira

March/April - .797 May - .792 June – 1.041 July – .975 August – 1.143 September – .735

Yunel Escobar

March/April - .839 May - .698 June - .782 July – .594 August - .779 September – 1.006

Chase Utley

March/April – 1.195 May - .891 June - .874 July - .780 August - .889 September – .651

Dan Uggla

March/April - .801 May – 1.251 June - .932 July - .673 August - .704 September – .927

Kelly’s slumps this season have been pretty drastic.

By Steve from OH

September 7, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this

Josh, good stuff.

Goes to show that no one is a model of consistency. Everyone is streaky.

By JC from UT

September 7, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this

DOB: I’m sure this has been mentioned before, but did FW say that Escobar is untouchable? And if so, how much credence do you put into that? Personally I hope he remains a Brave for many years to come, the guy is going to be a really good player who will always hit .280-.300 and will develop more HR power.

By flbravesgirl

September 7, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this

I’ve disliked the blue alternate jerseys & caps from Day 1. They look like batting practice jerseys. I like the traditional look of the Braves’ regular unis. When they wore the throwback unis at Wrigley this year, they weren’t that different from the present one. I wish the boys would’ve kept the high socks & fitted style though.

By Josh

September 7, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this

Thanks, Steve from OH.

Everyone that jim named (except Escobar) could be considered in the upper-portion of hitters, if not the best hitter, for their positions (Utley & McCann). Even though Kelly’s slumps tend to be rough, he’s not considered to be on the same level as these hitters. If he could just somewhat maintain his OBP in those lean times (he took 4 walks in August)…that might change.

I’ve brought up the idea of trading Kelly before, but only if it returns a solid starting pitcher under team control for several years. Trade or not, I get the feeling that as Kelly continues to mature those slump numbers are going to creep up toward his career numbers. 2b who can post a .825 OPS don’t grow on trees.

By flbravesgirl

September 7, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this

I sure hope FW considers him untouchable, JC. I think he & Mac are the foundation of the team in years to come.

By David O'Brien

September 7, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this

Kelly Johnson batting cleanup today….

JC from UT: Frank Wren hasn’t used “untouchable” to describe anyone, and besides McCann and Jurrjens, I don’t know that anyone is untouchable on the team.

That said, I get the impression from talking to him and others than Escobar is pretty rock-solid, pretty close to untouchable at least for the immediate future.

By jim

September 7, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this

Here is the comparison I requested. Yunel has the most consistent month-by-month numbers, but his production is a lot less than we expected from him at the start of the year. Anyone wanting Uggla in the offseason should pay close attention to these numbers, and his defense is even worse than either Kelly’s or Martin’s. I will leave it to someone with more time on their hands (if anyone) to calculate the standard deviation about their means for each of these stats, to determine just how streaky each player may be, but a visual inspection confirms that Kelly is more streaky than most (not Uggla), but Chipper too might be considered streaky, though playing to a higher mean. The range in Chipper’s high-low month averages (not incl. Sept) is 422 - 250 = 172 points. The range in Kelly’s monthly averages is 355 - 224 = 131 points. Kelly’s worst month is about 53 points below his overall average. Chipper’s worst month is about 105 points below his current average. The decline in Chipper’s power numbers over the past 3 months is a deeper concern.

Kelly:

Apr. AB 81; R 13; 2B 2; HR 4; RBI 12; Ave 235;

May AB 93; R 15; 2B 11; 3B 2; HR 2; RBI 14; AVE 355;

June AB 100; R 15; 2B 9; HR 1; RBI 9; Ave 250;

July AB 76; R 13; 2B 4; HR 2; RBI 8; Ave 224;

Aug AB 93; R 10; 2B 4; 3B 1; HR 0; RBI 7; Ave 237;

Sept. AB 26; R 6; 2B 6; 3B 2; HR 0; RBI 10; Ave 538;

Chipper:

Apr. AB 90; R 17; 2B 4; HR 7; RBI 17; AVE 422;

May. AB 96; R 21; 2B 7; HR 4; RBI 14; AVE 417;

June AB 58; R 8; 2B 1; HR 4; RBI 11 AVE 328;

July AB AB 63; R 10; 2B 4; 3B 1; HR 2; RBI 9; AVE 270;

Aug AB 73; R 14; 2B 4 HR 2; RBI 11; AVE 315;

Sept AB 12; R 1; 2B 0; HR 0; RBI 2; AVE 250;

Yunel:

Apr. AB 89; R 16; 2B 3; HR 3; RBI 9; Ave 292;

May AB 111; R 13; 2B 3; HR 1; RBI 10; Ave 297;

June AB 87; R 13; 2B 4; HR 2; RBI 8; Ave 287;

July AB 74; R 7; 2B 5; HR 0; RBI 10; Ave 230;

Aug AB 104; R 13; 2B 7; 3B 1; HR 2; RBI 15; Ave 279;

Sept AB 17; R 4; 2B 0; HR 1; RBI 1; Ave 353;

McCann:

Apr. AB 88; R 13; 2B 7; 3B 1; HR 4; RBI 9; Ave 273;

May AB 90; R 13; 2B 12; HR 4; RBI 20; Ave 367;

June AB 90; R 8; 2B 4; HR 5; RBI 13; Ave 244;

July AB 66; R 11; 2B 5; HR 6; RBI 18; Ave 333;

Aug AB 89; R 12; 2B 6; HR 3; RBI 14; Ave 281;

Sept AB 21; R 3; 2B 0; HR 0; RBI 2; Ave 143;

Utley:

Apr. AB 108; R 23; 2B 10; 3B 1; HR 10; RBI 21; Ave 352;

May AB 108; R 20; 2B 6; HR 8; RBI 26; Ave 259;

June AB 94; R 15; 2B 7; 3B 2; HR 4; RBI 16; Ave 266;

July AB 97; R 15; 2B 4; HR 4; RBI 10; Ave 278;

Aug. AB 109; R 17; 2B 8; HR 4; RBI 12; Ave 294;

Sept. AB 14; R 1; 2B 0; 3B 1; HR 0; RBI 4; Ave 214;

Uggla:

Apr. AB 98; R 13; 2B 8; 3B 1; HR 4; RBI 12; Ave 255;

May AB 98; R 28; 2B 11; HR 12; RBI 26; Ave 347;

June AB 87; R 16; 2B 5; HR 7; RBI 20; Ave 264;

July AB 63; R 10; 2B 3; HR 3; RBI 9; Ave 190;

Aug. AB 92; R 14; 2B 7; HR 2; RBI 8; Ave 217;

Sept. AB 19; R 5; 2B 1; HR 2; RBI 5; Ave 211;

By McFann ิ

September 7, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this

Corky Miller! Yeah!!

1.G Blanco, CF

1. M Prado, 1B

2. C Jones, 3B

3. K Johnson, 2B

4. Y Escobar, SS

5. J Francoeur, RF

6. B Jones, LF

7. C Miller, C

8. J Reyes, P

By McFann ิ

September 7, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this

McCann sOPS+ and tOPS+ are both negative numbers this month!

Yee-haw! Fun, huh?

By Billy Walsh

September 7, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this

Has anyone seen Craig Kimbrel pitch for the pelicans? In 35 innings pitched he has 56 k’s. Baseball America says he looks a lot like Devine but has better stuff. 97 mph fastball with a nasty slider. The boys from Queens return tonight!!

By jim

September 7, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this

If I’m not mistaken, I believe that now Kelly has hit in every position in the lineup except 9th.

The range in Chipper’s month to month ave should read 152 points. I didn’t mean to include Sept.

By bravos2249

September 7, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this

jim

for one I’d expect Chipper’s drop off to be more than anyother, considering he did hit .400 for like 3 months, and he was playing hurt when he dropped about 50-60 pts and never regained that early season thunder. I agree about the power, but I’d rather him get on base against a pitcher he knows he can’t take deep than pop up or fly out.

By J.D.

September 7, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this

DOB, I noticed Chipper was not on that list of untouchables. What category would you place him in?

By J.D.

September 7, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this

DOB, I noticed Chipper was not on that list of untouchables. What category would you place him in?

By David O'Brien

September 7, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this

Someone mentioned that it was Bark in the Park day today at Turner Field, and a hard-bitten pressbox veteran immediately replied, “Yeah, that’s why Corky’s playing….”

Ouch. Just reporting what I hear, folks. And no, it wasn’t a writer who said it….

Oh, and he added, “Obviously we thought our lineup was potent enough that we could get around Corky’s bat…”

By Jeff321

September 7, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this

Was Corky Miller the first catcher ever to have his own helmet interfere with a throw to first base?

Some defensive specialist, eh?

By McFann ิ

September 7, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this

Jeff321 Was Corky Miller the first catcher ever to have his own helmet interfere with a throw to first base?

I don’t know, but it looked funny.

And I meant “Yay” in my 12:39, not “Yeah”.

By Jeff Francoeur

September 7, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this

I need a big contract so I can buy my own slushy machine for my house

By Tomas

September 7, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this

Corky? Why not Sammons? Man Bobby has a huge crush with Corky.

By Brian

September 7, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

Jim- Do you hate me? Why spend so much time torturing me with stats? I was just getting over this but here come the symptoms.

By David O'Brien

September 7, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this

Get thee to the NEW BLOG

By bravos2249

September 7, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this

IF you get thrown out on THAT play at first then you are obviously not running hard.

By NO MORE BOBBY

September 7, 2008 8:02 PM | Link to this

Congrats to you for bringing this up. It is obvious with the giant cow at Turner Field and all of the extra jersey / cap options for fans to buy that its more and more about making money than winning with the Braves.

I hate those red jerseys. They look very minor league but I guess that fits with the way our team has played this year.

By leonard dowdle

September 8, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this

Thirty-six consecutive batters were retired by Harvey Haddix before the thirteenth inning — when it all ended on an error, an intentional walk of Hank Aaron, then a double.

After the game, Lew Burdette told the media, “I called Harvey that night in the visiting clubhouse. I told him ‘I realize I got what I wanted, a win, but I’d really give it up because you pitched the greatest game that’s ever been pitched in the history of baseball. It was a damned shame you had to lose.’ “

By cdvu yxsqovjbr

November 13, 2008 7:29 AM | Link to this

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By cdvu yxsqovjbr

November 13, 2008 7:29 AM | Link to this

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