AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2008 > September > 07 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USKelly the cleanup hitter?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
As we were saying about Kelly Johnson the other day, the man is about as streaky as they come. But when he’s hot, he’s seriously smokin’.
This past week, he’s been very hot, which explains why Johnson is batting cleanup today (well, that plus the fact that Brian McCann is out of the lineup, and no other Brave has hit more than four homers since the All-Star break. Seriously, folks, this is one punchless outfit Atlanta’s running out there.)
Johnson is hitting cleanup for the first time in his career, other than a couple of pinch-hit at-bats. He’s now hit in every spot in the order except ninth this season.
K.J., as he’s affectionately known when he’s hitting well, has batted .308 with 18 extra-base hits, 21 RBI and a .365 on-base percentage in his past 41 games, since July 23. But he’s so streaky, even his streaks include streaks.
Here’s what we mean: He hit .391 in 13 games from July 23 to Aug. 5, then .116 (5-for-43) with one double, three RBI, 14 strikeouts and one walk in a dreadful 14-game stretch from Aug. 6-21.
And since then? He’s been ablaze. Johnson has hit .386 with 10 extra-base hits and 12 RBI and a 1.058 OPS in his past 14 games, including 13-for-22 (.591) with six doubles, two homers and 10 RBI during his current streak of five consecutive multi-hit games.
I asked Bobby Cox this morning whether Johnson right now looks like the player that Cox envisioned in 2005, when he famously stuck by the rookie during a 1-for-30 skid at the outset of his career. He kept playing him then, and Johnson responded a week later by hitting .417 with three homers and 11 RBI to win NL Player of the Week honors.
“He still looks like he’s going to get a base hit every time, even when he’s slumping,” Cox said this morning. “He puts up the [overall] numbers pretty good, to me. He’s sure got some big hits lately.”
That’s the frustrating thing about Johnson, that he goes through a seemingly inordinate number of streaks, including more extended slumps than most hitters who produce similar overall statistics to him.
When he’s bad, he’s really bad. When he’s good, he’s one of the best offensive players at his position in the National League. In fact, Johnson leads NL second baseman with 36 doubles.
He’s batting .278 overall with 50 extra-base hits (five triples, nine homers), 60 RBI, 10 stolen bases, a .345 OBP and .432 slugging percentage. Pretty solid for a second baseman in his second full season in the majors, a guy who missed the 2006 season after elbow surgery and switched to 2B in 2007.
Does anyone realize that Johnson ranks eighth in the NL with a .330 average in 112 at-bats with runners in scoring position? Of the seven guys ahead of him, the only two with more at-bats with RISP are Houston hitters: Lance Berkman, who’s hit .352 in 122 at-bats, and Carlos Lee, who’s hit .338 in 139 at-bats.
So why does it feel like Johnson has had such a frankly mediocre season?
He said it himself, when I asked him: Because he’s had two really good months (including this one) and four mediocre ones. He knows it, and Johnson said he also believes he’ll continue to improve and become a more consistent player.
He was right about the two good months thing, which I hadn’t realized until he said it. He hit .355 with 15 extra-base hits and 14 RBI in May, and he’s hit .538 with eight extra-base hits and 10 RBI in six September games.
He hit .250 or lower in the other four full months, including .237 or lower in three. He did hit four homers with 12 RBI in April, the only other month where he’s hit more than two homers or reached double-digits in RBI.
So what do you do with him? I get a sense the Braves are planning to keep him for next season, and that while Martin Prado could get a crack at the job, they really like Prado in a super-utility type role, playing several positions.
As good as Prado was in August, he’s never shown the kind of power or extra-base proclivity that Johnson possesses. Defense is a wash; neither is going to win a Gold Glove at second base.
On a team that’s got so many other holes to fill, including a power-hitting left field, a couple of starting pitchers, another lefty reliever, and perhaps more (right field?), trading Johnson seems unlikely to me. I don’t think the Braves, with so little power now, are willing to have less at second base.
Speaking of punchless…. Did we mention the power is kaput, particularly in the outfield? Oh, we have? A few hundred times?
Well, let’s do it once more.
Braves outfielders have 25 home runs, folks. No, not since the All-Star break. Twenty-five home runs all season.
That’s the fewest of any outfield in the majors - 12 fewer than the next-lowest total in the NL, the Giants’ 37. Eleven NL teams have at least 50 homers from outfielders, while the Braves have 25.
Jeff Francoeur has 10 homers in 519 at-bat, while Nationals sometimes-leadoff hitter Willie Harris has 11 hoemrs in 296 at-bats.
But it’s not just outfielders. McCann has five homers since the break. You know who’s next on the team? Greg Norton, with four homers in 50 at-bats.
No other Brave has more than three homers since the break. Astounding. And besides McCann and Norton, the only other two who have more than two homers since the break are Mark Teixeira, who had three in 10 games after the break, then was traded; and Yunel Escobar, who hit his third since the break last night, a shot to straightaway center.
Chipper and Francoeur have two apiece since the break.
Chipper’s power drought: He’s not getting as many pitches to hit without Teixeira in the lineup, that’s for sure. But Chipper Jones would also be the first to tell you his swing hasn’t been what it was early in the season.
He’s hit .282 (35-for-124) with eight extra-base hits, 18 RBI and a .379 slugging percentage in his past 36 games, after batting .388 with 33 extra-base hits, 50 RBI and a whopping .640 slugging percentage in his first 77 games.
They’ve got tools:Don’t know if many of you saw the last issue of Baseball America, but it was their annual Best Tools issue, and it had a few Braves and/or Braves prospects featured prominently.
The organization had the “Most Exciting Player” in two different A-ball leagues — Gorkys Hernandez for Myrtle Beach in the Carolina League, and Jason Heyward for Rome in the South Atlantic League. Heyward was also the “Best Batting Prospect” in his league, and Hernandez was voted to have the “Best Outfield Arm” in his.
Myrtle’s Brandon Hicks was the “Best Defensive Shortstop” in the Carolina League.
In Double-A, Luis Valdez of Mississippi was rated “Best Reliever” in the Southern League.
And in Triple-A, Charlie Morton was rated the “Best Pitching Prospect” in the International League and Richmond’s Dave Brundage was “Best Manager Prospect.”
The issue also had the Best Tools for the majors, and they had top three in each category for each league (there was only one in each category in each minor league).
The only Braves who made the NL ratings this year were Chipper (second to Pujols in the “Best Hitter” category, and third in “Best Strike-Zone Judgment” behind Todd Helton and Pujols); John Smoltz (third in “Best Slider” behind Jake Peavy and Brad Lidge); and Francoeur (second in “Best Outfield Arm” behind Rick Ankiel).
Oh, and several of you will like this one: Bobby Coxwas once again first in “Best Manager,” ahead of Tony La Russa and Lou Piniella. In the AL, Mike Scioscia was rated “Best Manager” ahead of Ron Gardenhire and Jim Leyland.
OK, gotta cut this short… Game is starting. Here’s a great tune, and I always loved Glen Campbell’s cover version the most.
”GALVESTON” by Jimmy Webb
Galveston, oh Galveston
I still hear your sea winds blowing
I still see her dark eyes glowing
She was twenty-one
When I left Galveston
Galveston, oh Galveston
I still hear your sea waves crashing
While I watch the cannon flashing
And I clean my gun
And I dream of Galveston
I still see her standing by the water
Standing there, looking out to sea
And is she waiting there for me?
On the beach where we used to run
Galveston, oh Galveston
I am so afraid of dying
Before I dry the tears she’s crying
Before I see your sea birds flying
In the sun, at Galveston
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Services »
Comments
By David O'Brien
September 7, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this
Wow. That ball was absolutely tattooed, scorched, drilled. Milledge hit a screaming line drive to the seats.
By McFann Ô
September 7, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the new Blog, Chief!
From the last one:
Game Notes 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
Dude, hows come McCann’s never doing that when we’re at the game? And we sat in right-center last time!
By Brian
September 7, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this
DOB- Simple question. Who would you like to see the Braves get for the OF next year?
By cabravesfan
September 7, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this
I know Kelly can be frustratingly inconsistent but I would not give up on him (or Francoeur for that matter) just yet- like you said,DOB, when he is on he hits the crap out of the ball- too many other, bigger, concerns right now…
Great song choice by the way- I love Campbell’s version also
By David O'Brien
September 7, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this
Brian: Jason Bay would work.
By McFann Ô
September 7, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this
DOB—
You forgot to say, “First”!
Great play by Milledge—or whatever his name is…
By richbrave
September 7, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this
LASTINGS MILLEDGE puts a dent in our drive for the first draft pick.
By Jeff321
September 7, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this
Speaking of Kelly Johnson.. First pitch swinging yet again.
It seems to me like SOMEBODY in Braves management could tell these guys to work the count. I know they do it sometimes.
I’d be willing to bet the Braves have more innings of seeing less than 10 pitches than anyone else in baseball.
By richbrave
September 7, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this
For the NATS fans. MILLEDGE giveth, MILLEDGE taketh away.
And SUTTON’s evidently losing his hair over the NATIONAL’s playing abilities. I see he’s pulling some of what’s left down over his forehead to give the impression of younger days. I would notice, same thing here.
By Wayne
September 7, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this
Dave: What I think I hear you saying is that Escobar and KJ should be back next season. Not that I disagree.
If that is the case, who do we have that is tradeable, that could bring a decent starting pitcher to the Braves. Prado and Blanco are lean on experience, only having performed for parts of this year.
Our pitching is nothing to write home about. No decent trade value. Lillibridge is not getting played enough to develop any trade value.
Is it going to be prospects? What realistically can we get in trade with prospects only.
Francoeur’s value has decreased, although I would think a lot of clubs would take a flier on him. (same reasons I would keep him)
Or do you think we will be more active than usual in the FA market? I hear a lot of talk about Lowe, Dempster, Dunn, Burrell and others, but heck, a third to a half the clubs will be making a play for 1-2 of those guys.
Personal opinion: Keep our top prospects, and patch it together in 2009. Don’t sell out 2010 and 2011 for a half-azzed shot in 2009.
Let’s go to the spring with folks like Hanson, Schafer, Medlen, Richmond, Parr, Flowers, etc vying for a spot on the roster. (did I miss anybody close?)
BTW, “Galveston” is my favorite Glen Campbell song. Was one of the first I learned on the guitar.
By David O'Brien
September 7, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this
I just went back and added another section to the original blog, an entry about the Best Tools list in Baseball America, which had Jason Heyward and Gorkys Hernandez as the most exciting players in their respective leagues. See above, it should be there now.
By fastasballs
September 7, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this
I didn’t have a chance to read the previous blog so this may have already been covered.
Medlin pitched a complete game shutout yesterday with 12K’s, leading Mississippi to 3-0 sweep of the Southern Division series.
Amazing pitching down there in the three games by Redmond, Hanson & Medlin.
Myrtle Beach will playing in the championship series in Advanced A as well.
By richbrave
September 7, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this
FRANCOUER is doing his best to assist us to that #1 pick. 0-2 so far today. Pop-out for the final out with bases loaded, then a DP grounder with one on and no outs in the third. RALLY KILLERS rather than INSTANT OFFENSE. I wonder what his stats are day vs. nighttime.
Oh well, only way we get to the first draft pick. Right now, we’re in #4 slot, but gaining on all in front of us viz. SEATTLE, WASHINGTON, and SAN DIEGO.
I like BOBBY’s move to bat JOHNSON in the cleanup, but CORKY MILLER’s promise fulfilled leaves me gasping for air. No, no, and triple NO.!!!!
By Wayne
September 7, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this
Don’t those Baseball America folks know that Bobby is a terrible manager. Haven’t they been reading the blog?
By Random
September 7, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this
Josh: “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.”
“Give a man a fish, and he’ll eat for a day.
“Teach a man to fish, and he’ll get drunk on his boat every weekend.”
By curtis jones
September 7, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this
Of course, Willie Harris has more home runs than Jeff Franceour, even with far fewer at-bats. Willie gets to hit against BRAVES pitching!
By Brian
September 7, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this
There have been people on this blog that are sure our minors are very weak. DOB just posted what I’ve heard about our system. For those who think different, name another teams that put ours to shame?
By mbatl
September 7, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this
One other option for the OF might be Brian Giles. It’s known that the Pads want to dump salary; Giles makes $9 mil next year, but it’s bumped to $11 mil if he’s traded.
That’s a lot for an aging corner OF, but he still swings a good bat, it would be just a 1-year commitment, and we might get SD to chip in a few dollars - there is a $3 mil buyout if SD wanted to let him walk, so maybe they’d throw in 3 mil?
That’s a deal we could probably do for a b-player, like Blanco (just for example), and a mid-prospect.
It’s not sexy, but might not be a bad approach to bridging the gap to the Schafer/Hernandez/Heyward outfield of the future.
By richbrave
September 7, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this
MORTON and BRUNDIGE. I told you I liked BRUNDIGE and GUY HANSON (pitching) too.
Off that team, CANIZARES is AAAA at best AA at worst. THORMAN you know about. They had the power numbers for RICHMOND this year. Pitching-wise, BRIAN LAWRENCE showed some flashes that were good, and a lot of ugly. A couple of AAA years with a LOT of improvement, maybe a good trade piece. Haven’t checked his history or age. PARR and JULIO were the best late besides STOCKMAN and MORTON early.
By richbrave
September 7, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this
LAWRENCE 32. Forget it.!!
By bruce
September 7, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this
alright JoJo good job getting out of that inning after two walks!!
By richbrave
September 7, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this
curtis jones:
n-n-nic-c-c-e.!!
By cabravesfan
September 7, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this
mbatl Giles wont come to Atlanta (i believe he has a no trade clause that allows him to veto any trade) mainly because he is from San Diego and has already said he does not want to leave the west coast (vetoed a trade to Boston earlier this year)- and as much as i like him I dont think he is the answer….
By mbatl
September 7, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this
cabravesfan, according to Cots, he has a list of 8 teams to whom he can veto a trade, and Boston is on it, but Atlanta is not, and I think that “limited no trade” clause expires after this year anyway. So, he may have no choice in the matter, it appears to me.
I’m certainly not saying he’s “the answer.” Just that he might be a good “stopgap” to provide some offense out of left (or right) field, without committing longterm dollars to a guy like Dunn or Burrell.
Just a thought, though… not a campaign!
By Tomahawkin
September 7, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this
D.O.B. Good post about K.J. it’s just bad he got hot late in the year…
I can’t believe they have Ankiel rated higher than Francoeur…I’ve always said the Francoeur has had the best arm that I’ve seen since Justice, and a young Raul Mondesi…
Tomahawkin is hungover lisetning to some Old Jazz
I’m Kind of suprised that you haven’t mentioned any Jazz references D.O.B.
By cabravesfan
September 7, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this
mbatl thanks - couldn’t remember if there were restrictions on that no trade clause…i agree that he (or a similar guy) may be a good temporary solution but not at $11 million- that money would be better used for a starter…now if we could get him cheaper ($7-8 range maybe?)- I do like his bat and he is said to be a good clubhouse guy- might work for a year…
By Tomahawkin
September 7, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this
This maybe a stupid statement considered to some, but why is Don Sutton, or Steve Stone (The Former Cubs commentator) not employed as a pitching coach?
I love their wisdom and their commentary… Does anyone know…?
By J.L.
September 7, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this
The Braves should start the” CORKSTER” for the rest of the season,too see if he can bat under .050 with over 100 atbats.
By bruce
September 7, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this
ok pen, save one for JoJo and lets win the series
By Jamie in Richmond
September 7, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this
RE: Bobby Cox was once again first in “Best Manager,” ahead of Tony La Russa and Lou Piniella.
Glad Bobby continues to get the respect he’s earned.
But of course, “Tomahawk Tom” or somebody’s silly handle in this blog knows more about what makes a great manager than the folks at Baseball America right? I’d forgotten it was Bobby who took that sledgehammer to Smoltz’s arm earlier in the year. Surprised it didnt get more pub when he lead-piped the other 6 or 7 pitchers in the arm too…
By Hit, Heap, Hit
September 7, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this
Hey, the paragraph about the latest issue of Baseball America served as a reminder that I haven’t received my September issue of Chop Talk. Anyone else missing theirs?
By N Nine
September 7, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this
Have no fear! Jojo still batting better than corky “funny guy” miller!
HIP HIP Corky
I really thought the corky jokes were done for good, but forgot BobbY Cox Promised this clown a second chance at his career . Thx bobby for the wise decisions this year. It’s kinda fun making fun of clowns.
By Hit, Heap, Hit
September 7, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this
LOL Jamie in Richmond catches on fast eh?
By Josh
September 7, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this
Random @ 2:36 made me laugh heartily!
On the note of the game today, Julian Tavares has surprised me since joining the team. After his train-wreck of a 1st game he’s been pretty solid for this team.
By Josh
September 7, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this
and then he gives up the homer after i let the text sit in the comment box while making a sandwich. oh the irony
By ricflair
September 7, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this
DOB what is Jason Bay’s contract status? Is he a FA at the end of the year? Thanks.
By bruce
September 7, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this
McFann Have you tried a Sunday day game after Saturday night game? My guess is you would not be inclined to go to a game when Brian is not likely to play, but maybe on a day game with the McCann shirt on with the McCann in front would work… probably better for you than me. I tried as you know.
By Jamie in Richmond
September 7, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this
Hit Heap Hit
I’ve gotten my Sept. Choptalk…got it about a week ago actually.
By Tomahawkin
September 7, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this
Oh yea, I’m watching the cubs game, and football, but does anyone wishes we still had Derosa…?
And also, Phillies fans are asking the Phillies F.O. to go after Garrett Atkins in the offseason…
Thoughts…?
By desertbrave
September 7, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this
Dave-
Do you think it is possible for the Braves to get Bay, now that he is in Boston? I don’t want to give up the farm for him.
By Hit, Heap, Hit
September 7, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this
Thanks Jamie. My mailman sucks, its a wonder I get half my mail. I’m gonna be mad if I don’t get it at all.
By Brian
September 7, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this
AAHH, good ole’ Boyer stings us again!!! WAY TO GO BIG RED!!
By bruce
September 7, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this
walks are so frustrating when we play the nats
By Jeff321
September 7, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this
Bobby Cox brings in Blaine Boyer and he fails yet again.
Ah, 15 minutes till the Dodgers game! (Where you will find a hungry team with a HOF manager.)
By richbrave
September 7, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this
At 67 if I were BOBBY COX, I’m not sure I would want to continue this nonsense. You could see his disgust talking on the mound about BOYER’s performance with MILLER. Gesturing with his hands like what the he!! are you gonna’ do.
By richbrave
September 7, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this
TAVARES. A HR and a walk. Tough day, but rather than fold up, he got the three without further damage. Something other reliefers on this squad have failed consistantly to accomplish. Damage control makes this guy a keeper for next year in my book, certainly for ST at least. AND his arm doesn’t hurt.!!!!
By McFann Ô
September 7, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this
Bruce—
We’ve been to one DGANG this year, but Brian played that one. We mostly don’t go to the day games ‘cause it’s so hot—and yeah, Brian doesn’t play them very much, soo…(but I guess you really can’t count the two game we went to as ones that he “played”, because he went a combined 0-8 with 5 strikeouts and an error.)
I oughta try the backwards shirt thing, thanks. It’s a shame it didn’t work for you…I’m also not too sure that we’re going to anymore games this year. : (
Hey, does Amazon.com sell back-issues of CT at a discount price?
By David O'Brien
September 7, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this
Francoeur with bases loaded and Boyer pitching just about anytime since July 1. Two bad developments.
By bruce
September 7, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this
Hit Heap Hit I finished reading my Sept CT last night… Caruso the editor writes about slow delivery and last month being one of the most complaints for a while and suggests that you contact customer service at your local PO and ask for a “postal watch” to be placed on your CT. Also, says any issue not delivered by the 10th will be replaced at no cost when subscriber contacts us by phone or e-mail.
By N Nine
September 7, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this
I see that Boyer and Tavaras did their job as usual. THE CORKY UPDATE: 0-4 .086
By David O'Brien
September 7, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this
Or Corky at the plate. Another such development….
Or Gonzo in a non-save situation, even if it’s a tie game at home in the ninth or 10th inning. Apparently not enough adrenaline (he says, scratching head)….
Tomahawkin’, what do you want me to do, post jazz “lyrics”? I mean, I could throw some Billie Holliday up there, some “Strange Fruit” or the like. Nina Simone, now there’s some serious lyrics, but some folks here would be offended by the tunes of hers that I like most. Although “Do What You’ve Gotta Do” ain’t offensive, that’s for sure. Man, I love her version of that tune.
Billie didn’t write her tunes, or at least not the vast majority of them. Nor did Ella. And the great jazz players that I listen to, from Coltrane to Diz, Bird to Strayhorn, Getz to Baker, Monk to Armstrong to Marsalis (Wynton and dad Ellis do it for me), aren’t, with a few exceptions, about words (Louis Armstrong and Chet Baker had some of the exceptions).
By mbatl
September 7, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this
Gonzo can’t get a pitch below the belt. He’s either seriously tired, or hurt.
By bobby
September 7, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this
With Baseball America naming Bobby as best manager, it makes you take their other picks with a grain of salt.
By BravesFan79
September 7, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this
I agree that Bobby is Great manager, but hes also one of the LEAST Innovative, and one of the worst at controlling the bullpen.
Were in line for the 4th pick now? YES…. KEEP FALLING…. lets count on this ol reliable bullpen to loose it again for us…. ehhh wait i just caught myself cheering for Millidge to get a hit…only hit i want that fool to get is in the head!
check out this: funny stuff
http://www.babeslovebaseball.com/2008/05/voodoo-sabermetrics-lastings-milledge.html
By Bobby's Cox
September 7, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this
He was right about the two good months thing, which I hadn’t realized until he said it. He hit .355 with 15 extra-base hits and 14 RBI in May, and he’s hit .538 with eight extra-base hits and 10 RBI in six September games. DOB
How could you not realize it? I’ve said it like 10 times all year on your blog: That KJ hit over .269 in 3 of the 11 months the last 2 years (later this year), and only had 2 good months last year (early this year). Mark this month as month #4, but it’s only Sept 7.
A few days ago I posted that KJ is a little like Tex & ARod, puts up good numbers but you shake your head wondering where they came from.
Prado’s streak was just as impressive last month. He’ll easily produce just as many doubles as Johnson over a full season, but the way he stays behind the ball and hits to all fields (especially up the middle and to right), will allow him to be more consistent. His numbers with RISP is even more impressive. His situational hitting is more superior.
Trade KJ. See if Cleveland is interested for Laffey. They need a 2nd baseman & Laffy has good stuff. KJ’s not bad, but this team already has too many lefties and needs less streaky hitters.
By richbrave
September 7, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this
Oyeme CUBANO. Show us why you’re in ATLANTA.
By McFann Ô
September 7, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this
How come every time our players have a chance to untie the game in the ninth they hit it to the second baseman or the shortstop or whatever FREAKIN’ player that was??
By David O'Brien
September 7, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this
Apparently, nine innings is the cutoff point for hundreds of fans making their way to the exits.
“That’s it, Hon. If they can’t get it done in nine, we’re leaving. I’ve got to be back at work in a little over 16 hours.”
By Lasting Millidges Horoscope
September 7, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this
Horoscope - (Date of Birth: April 5, 1985) - Lastings Milledge’s sign is Aries, the Ram. He does not hear the noise you are trying to impart upon him. He tends to keep it real. Unfortunately, he keeps his real at room temperature on the kitchen counter instead of the refrigerator, making it prone to spoiling. Contrary to popular opinion, he is indeed down with that (whatever “that” may be).
aries Milledge is also a man of action as long as that action does not involve a baseball glove. The only acceptable mentors for Milledge are Dmitri Young and Fred Berry (sadly deceased). Favorite phrases include “whatever”, “you’re not the boss of me”, and “I am so out of here when I’m not arbitration-eligible anymore!”
By richbrave
September 7, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this
I’m afraid BOYER’s problems are of his own making. The pouting, petulant attitude I saw here in RICHMOND when he was demoted last year are indications of emotional failure to deal with reality. It seems that situation has not improved this year in ATLANTA. Can the BRAVES afford another CHUCK JAMES type head-case.? I don’t think so. How long must we wait for improvement in his game.? Call in the shrink, or let him go. I say this even if he is a namesake.
By Bobby's Cox
September 7, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this
By the way DOB
Chipper, McCann, Frenchy, Kotchman all have power potential. That’s four hopefuls to hit 20 HR a year that necessarily won’t do so. Expecting a 5th player to potentially do so is bad reasoning. It’s the equivalent of expecting one of the oldest rotations in ML history to perform well over a full season.
Instead, you go out and sign or trade for a sure power bat for the outfield, and get someone who consistently hits, gets on base, or moves runners over in front of them. That’s not KJ. KJ is the best trading piece the braves have. Trades will have to be made because the free agent class is not impressive. Kelly is a nice player, but he’s not a good fit on this team, unfortunately.
By richbrave
September 7, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this
DAVID:
CORKY at the plate. It’s not baseball, it’s an adventure.
By bruce
September 7, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this
David is it the people with dogs? maybe the dogs have to “go”, good move to take them if they ask
By bruce
September 7, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this
McFann— did not see chop talk on ebay or amazon… what issues are you looking for?
By DAP
September 7, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this
escobar is the worst bunter ive ever seen. has he ever gotten one down?
its sad that kelly is so streaky. otherwise, hed be a star. i would not be quick to trade him, but i would listen to offers.
By McFann Ô
September 7, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this
Bruce—
I was curious about the August issue, but it’s not a huge deal.
Thanks, though!
OK, team! Let’s do—DOUBLE-PLAY??? Jeff Francoeur, how could you—
Well, I guess I can’t get too mad at ‘im…My man botched his walk-off opportunity last night…
By J.L.
September 7, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this
You must admit,Francine is consistent.
By Tomahawkin
September 7, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this
D.O.B. Ur 4:12 Quote “Tomahawkin’, what do you want me to do, post jazz “lyrics”? I mean, I could throw some Billie Holliday up there, some “Strange Fruit” or the like. Nina Simone, now there’s some serious lyrics, but some folks here would be offended by the tunes of hers that I like most. Although “Do What You’ve Gotta Do” ain’t offensive, that’s for sure. Man, I love her version of that tune.”
I kind of figured that you would refer to that as being offensive… But you are on point about those lyrics…hella Ill…
OT, I was venting earlier because all my roomates will not stop playing that Lil Wayne Garbage…
but anyways, I have a feeling that a blog will be upcoming concerning the biggests overachieving teams, and underachieving teams of 08….
By Brian
September 7, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this
Does anybody on here collect baseball cards? I used to buy like three of four packs a day, now there so exspensive it’s rediculous. I got a Prado and Escobar autograph cards last year. Prado’s card is looking better than I thought it would. Pretty cool, I guess
By David O'Brien
September 7, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this
T-hawkin’, it wasn’t offensive whatsoever. I do love jazz — old-school jazz, mostly. I play Coltrane, Chet Baker and Miles Davis a lot — Miles’ classics like Kind of Blue, Bitches Brew, Miles Ahead, Sketches of Spain, Birth of the Cool….
By David O'Brien
September 7, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this
You bring in McCann to pinch-hit and have him bunt? Hmmm…
By J.L.
September 7, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this
I don’t care if this works out ,can anyone explain Cox’s move’s????? Other than senile,and i’m a year older.
By Brian
September 7, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this
Dave,
I know this isn’t related to your recent post, but how much more can we (Braves fans) take of Blaine Boyer?!?!? The dude has been DONE for months!!!!! I know we’re hurting when we sign Dessens from the scrap heap, but come on. Anybody but Boyer. Please Bobby, please.
By McFann Ô
September 7, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!!
STOP DOING THAT!! MY GOSH! WHAT THE HECK IS YOUR FREAKIN’ PROBLEM, ANYWAY?????
THERE! .290! And .279 with RISP since you’re 0 for your last 7 with RISP!!
By David O'Brien
September 7, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this
That was pretty pathetic. Runners at first and second and none out, and Braves get nothing. McCann bunting? Really?
By Jeff321
September 7, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this
Joe Simpson - (Paraphrase) “Why is McCann being asked to bunt? Why not Lillibridge or one of the pitchers? Maybe he missed a sign.”
I guess we can discount “missed a sign” since he tried it twice. So, lets just chalk this one up to Bobby Cox and his donkey like decision making.
By 22oz
September 7, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this
McCann bunting. I want a recount on the Best Manager vote. Great job guys, we’re inching closer to that high draft pick!
By ArkyTech
September 7, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this
It’s now a week into September and Corky’s batting average is still below today’s temperature…..
By richbrave
September 7, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this
BRAVES fans never cared for “free baseball” evidently. I guess SKIP is rollin’ as the turnstiles at the exits spin.
By Mitchell
September 7, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this
I’m not one to come on here and bash Bobby Cox, but for him to ask Brian McCann to bunt is unbelievable. It was probably a good thing that he struck out. A strike is always better than a double play and no one is more prone to hit into a double play on a bunt than McCann.
That is indefensible. And pitching Gonzolez in the 9th in a tie game? Again? That’s ridiculous.
And can somebody tell me why they don’t put Buddy back into the starting rotation?
Can somebody please win this game?
By 22oz
September 7, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this
DOB, would you honestly sit in the hot sun to watch THIS team for more than 3 hours?
By Brian
September 7, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this
DOB- You sound like a Billy Squire kinda a guy. Not a Jazz person. 3 Doors Down is more me, if anyone cares
By kirknga
September 7, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this
Wrong choices as much as the lack of power have been the enemy of the Braves offense this season. Thankfully Buddy had a quick inning.
By DAP
September 7, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this
so we use our best hitter off the bench to bunt in extra innings at home? thats the worst thing ive seen in awhile. what a waste of mccann’s bat.
By richbrave
September 7, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this
NUNEZ:
Same MO as in RICHMOND. A hit, a walk and two out. BOBBY has the answer. Next reliefer please.
By brian
September 7, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this
I stepped out. Please say that McCann did not attempt to bunt. I figured Cox left him up there because they would have to pitch for him and he was going for the win.
Cox had McCann bunt? If that is true, I don’t know what to say except all these senile comments that I quickly disregarded earlier are coming to my mind now. With Lillebridge on the bench who could bunt, why use McCann there to bunt? If he didn’t want to bunt and let McCann take a shot at winning it great as well. But McCann bunt????
By McFann Ô
September 7, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this
Everyone seems very confused at why McCann was bunting…
I WISH HE WOULD HAVE!!
Dang! He needs to work his problems out! So far he’s hitting .136 this month! Yee-haw. Hey, at least the months only a week old.
By Tomahawkin
September 7, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this
D.O.B You are on point about the old Miles Davis…I’ve been on a Paul Hardcastle Binge lately, and some Kim Waters…
Brian Baseball cards R U kidding Me? I’m looking at my old Leaf Studio sets (From 91-93) As well as Fleer Ultra (92-97) and it gives me good glory to see the players from those hard a.s braves teams in the early 90’s…
By StingerSplash
September 7, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this
They couldn’t have had Jurrjens come up to bunt instead of burning McCann like that? Is Bobby still managing today, or did he already head back to Adairsville to beat the traffic?
And DOB, if you really want to throw a lyrics curveball, how bout some Edith Piaf? Can’t decide what’s more uplifting and positive to listen to, her or Alice in Chains.
By McFann Ô
September 7, 2008 5:34 PM | Link to this
brian—
OK, it was a weird idea. So Bobby took the bunt off, and McCann struck out on a pitch in the right-handed batters’ box.
I would’ve rather had the bunt, but that’s just me.
By richbrave
September 7, 2008 5:34 PM | Link to this
My last game of the year unless TBS or a National network broadcasts a BRAVES game. We lots of “free baseball.” But time to follow the crowd and leave. Next year will be better.
By Hit Heap Hit
September 7, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this
bruce Thanks for the info.
Oh by the way, did you guys know the Rockies and Matt Holliday are coming to town? And that tickets are only $8?
By StingerSplash
September 7, 2008 5:40 PM | Link to this
Jason Bay’s stats with Boston (before today): 31 games, 4 HR, 9 2B, 29 RBIs, .302 avg, .500 slg, .359 obp. And he’s homered today, giving him 5 HR and 30 RBIs in 32 games. He’s now scored 28 runs in 32 games as well. Talk about a great performance going under the radar, even in a town that is as media and team crazy as Boston.
By McFann Ô
September 7, 2008 5:41 PM | Link to this
DAP what a waste of mccann’s bat.
It wouldn’t have been a waste if he woulda gotten the bunt down.
By DAP
September 7, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this
hit heap hit that is the cheesiest commercial, the one for that rockies series. the voice over is bad enough but with the mass chior star-wars style music in the back ground its even worse.
By McFann Ô
September 7, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this
OH MY GOSH! A freakin’ DOUBLE! First XBH of the month for him!
Too bad he didn’t do that…well, I’m happy he did it now, at least.
Back to .292!
Aw, BLANCO!
By DAP
September 7, 2008 5:50 PM | Link to this
mcfann It wouldn’t have been a waste if he woulda gotten the bunt down.
yeah it wouldve.
By 22oz
September 7, 2008 5:50 PM | Link to this
Nice double Heap (Although it goes unrewarded). As soon as he improves his bunting, he’ll be the total package.
By StingerSplash
September 7, 2008 5:50 PM | Link to this
And now for your daily dose of schadenfraude:
If the Seattle Mariners hang on to their lead today, the New York Yankees will be in fourth place.
By Tonight on TBS:
September 7, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this
Tonight on TraitorBroadcastingSystem….. ANOTHER red sox/ yankess game, followed by 4 lame people sitting around the table eating chicken wings and watermellon with fake laughter in the background.
With a special appearance by flava flav!!
By McFann Ô
September 7, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this
Oh man, I can’t stand those commercials! They are waaaaay too dramatic!
By Jeff321
September 7, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this
You can always count on Blaine Boyer & Jeff Bennett to BLOW THE DAMN GAME! Way to go you losers.
Btw, does anyone know how many times Bobby Cox has called for the intentional walk only to have it be a total failure?
DONG! This has been a HOF donkey alert.
By StingerSplash
September 7, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this
Finally, a decent start from JoJo and the bullpen does this? No wonder the Braves are about to guarantee a losing season.
By Lew
September 7, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this
Well-I suppose it was inevitable.
By BravesFan79
September 7, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this
Elijah Dukes and Lastings Millidge……wow im guessing the Nations Owner owned a Garbage Dump before he bought the Nationals??
By McFann Ô
September 7, 2008 6:02 PM | Link to this
DAP—
Not necessarily. A strikeout is a complete waste, a bunt at least moves the runners up.
By kirknga
September 7, 2008 6:04 PM | Link to this
You just knew when Benett walked the first guy that he was going to blow up.Taking him out now really is beside the point.
By Metropolitan Man
September 7, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this
Is this the place to go for consoling when the philthies get the better of your team? I cant even take any more pleasure in the braves situation anymore, everyone keeps saying how those philthies are in the METS heads, especaily in the September months. Earn your money Santana, tonight METS fans sanity is on the line as well as a playoff spot.
By David O'Brien
September 7, 2008 6:10 PM | Link to this
Looked like Kelly had a sore calf or ankle or something on that last at-bat.
So they bring in James Parr to pinch-hit … and he draws a two-out walk. Are you kidding me?
By kirknga
September 7, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this
Jeff on the first pitch! You almost have to laugh at this point.
By N Nine
September 7, 2008 6:14 PM | Link to this
Stinchie! good work 1-7..few double plays.strikeout .and a first pitch out to end game. You are the lost man of the year. atta boi! YOU ROCK
By Jason Bay is signed through 2009
September 7, 2008 6:14 PM | Link to this
How about Brent Lillibridge and Jo Jo Reyes for Magglio Ordonez? The Tigers want to slash payroll and they need a SS……
By StingerSplash
September 7, 2008 6:15 PM | Link to this
And with that, Francoeur returns a semblance of normalcy to an inning where the Nats walked a rookie pitcher up as a pinch hitter and Escobar lined a double to bring the tying run to the plate. By the way, he stranded 8 runners today, four with two out and in scoring position.
By Brian
September 7, 2008 6:15 PM | Link to this
Wow, TP is a respectful guy isn’t he? Wave to the Nats dugout after a frustrating loss. I saw that and wonder where is competitve side went. Things like that bother me
By Efrim
September 7, 2008 6:17 PM | Link to this
BravesFan79
Elijah Dukes and Lastings Millidge……wow im guessing the Nations Owner owned a Garbage Dump before he bought the Nationals??
Why would you say that?
By Braves blow now for sure
September 7, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this
i forgot the Braves are still playin ,Go Falcon’s LOL
By mbatl
September 7, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this
Metro Man, I can’t console you too much about the Mets loss to the Phils… I hate both of ‘em (in a friendly, sportsmanship-like way, of course).
Not much talk about what Jamie Moyer has done this year at age 45… era is down to 3.64, and he’s on target for close to 200 innings again.
Amazing, really.
By Firetheoldfool
September 7, 2008 6:23 PM | Link to this
Cox remains an idiot.
By BravesFan79
September 7, 2008 6:24 PM | Link to this
Congrats to DoodooDukes for getting the winning hit….
also: congrats to DoodoDukes for recently hitting a 17 yr old foster child in the face with a bottle after she confronted him as the father of her baby. Which would be his 6th illigitimate child with 6 different women.
By Mitchell
September 7, 2008 6:24 PM | Link to this
Why are all of my f*ing posts getting deleted from the blog?
What the f* is up with that. DOB, can you answer me that? None of my last four or five posts have been on the blog.
Whatever, who gives a s*.
To everybody who defends Bobby Cox, you are an idiot.
Bobby Cox officially lost that game. I expect an apology from him on behalf of myself and on behalf of everyone foolish enough to stay at Turner Field and everyone at home watching all 14 innings… immediately.
Jeff Bennett shouldn’t get the loss for that game. Bobby’s the one who really earned it.
By Wayne
September 7, 2008 6:28 PM | Link to this
A true dilemma: Phillies or Mets!
How far out are the Marlins?
By mbatl
September 7, 2008 6:29 PM | Link to this
Did I hear right? Just flipped to the Braves’ postgame, and pretty sure I heard Bobby say that Mac was “bunting on his own.” Anyone else hear this? I came in right on the end of the press conference.
By Supes
September 7, 2008 6:33 PM | Link to this
I guess now would be a really good time for “Blayne Boyer is a tub of goo” to come out and post and entertain us:)
At least the Phillies beat the Mets earlier today. Kind of nice to know that after tonight, The Phillies will give Mets fans ulcers for the rest of the month!
By braves70
September 7, 2008 6:34 PM | Link to this
That was a dangerous thing having a pitcher pinch hit for your cleanup hitter and drawing a walk. Now Cox will think he has discovered some brilliant new strategy and we will see that again and again along with the attached losses.
By Brian
September 7, 2008 6:35 PM | Link to this
Mac’s idea to bunt. DUMB DUMB DUMB. I get it but not really. If that makes sense
By Mitchell
September 7, 2008 6:35 PM | Link to this
Okay, nevermind.
I don’t usually use that much profanity. Okay, maybe I do, but that didn’t seem to be why my entries weren’t getting posted.
A final thought:
Why the f* is Jeff still swinging on the first f*ing pitch with runners at second in third in the bottom of the 14th inning?
Why would you do that Jeff!?! Take a damn walk and maybe, if this team ever had the ability to get a clutch hit, somebody hits a homerun and it’s over.
Jeff Francoeur is a dumb mfer.
No really, I don’t use profanity.
By Steve from OH
September 7, 2008 6:37 PM | Link to this
Wayne: Phillies. If they didn’t have Victorino, then it would be a no-brainer.
By Kentavo
September 7, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this
Okay, to the folks out there that say manager/Cox don’t affect outcome of ballgames.
How about:
PH McCann and having him try to bunt? If you were going to bunt, why not get someone more proficient at it (Lillibridge, or one of the pitchers) rather than essentially wasting Mac’s at bat? Surely Mac wasn’t bunting on his own accord? Therefore, it had to be the manager’s call.
Bringing Boyer in a game that you’re trying to win. There is no defending Boyer anymore. If you want to win a game and you’re leading, do not bring in Boyer. 2 and 6 with a 5.30 ERA. Do you entrust a game to those numbers? Again, I’m pretty sure McDowell or Frank Wren didn’t sent Boyer in to cough up the 2-run lead. That means it had to be the manager’s call.
Walking the bases loaded after it is clear Bennett is having control issues. Once again, Bennett and Sammons didn’t make the call on this one.
and 3. are examples of Cox going by the book, but not recognizing (or ignoring) who the performer is. It was right call to try and bunt runners over with two on and none out, but McCann was the wrong McMan for the job. Yes, I know, major leauge players should be able to bunt, but as we’ve seen over and over, they don’t. So, instead, Cox again tries to shove a square peg into a round hole. And walking the bases loaded to create a force at every base is good in theory, but only when you’ve got a guy on the mound who is throwing strikes. Bennett was not sharp today, and Cox should recognize this. Bennett’s either on or way off - it is easy to tell.
Oh, and K.J. at cleanup? At least it’s not as laughable as Infante at cleanup.
This team has to go get a legitimate cleanup hitter.
I know there are many things that have gone wrong with injuries, but I think we would have been better off keeping Tex, letting him walk and getting the two draft picks. At least we wouldn’t have fewer dingers than the DeKalb T-Ball champs. And Kotchman has added zilch to this team. They’re actually better with Prado playing 1st. Kotchman is like a poorman’s LaRoche.
By David O'Brien
September 7, 2008 6:41 PM | Link to this
Direct the ire elsewhere: McCann was bunting on his own. Yes, on his own.
Said that Rivera gives him such a tough time usually, and with the shadows falling across the field, he just decided to try to move the runners over. McCann conceded it was a mistake, said he realized later that Bobby could have used a pitcher to do that, and that he was up there to drive in the run.
By the way, McCann was 3-for-6 against Rivera before that at-bat.
Remember a few years ago, when LaRoche did the exact same thing in a game at Florida? LaRoche was practically persecuted for it. Almost everyone, including some teammates, was harshly critical.
Only difference is, that game meant something. Braves were in a race. Other than that, same scenario. Exactly same.
By David O'Brien
September 7, 2008 6:42 PM | Link to this
Oh, and Kelly left game with leg cramps.
By Metropolitan Man
September 7, 2008 6:44 PM | Link to this
mbatl
I know the dillema. Take away the METS and put in the braves and I will root for the…..well let me put it this way. If the braves will lose in the 1st round, I hope they would beat the snot out of the philthies. The philthies aren’t my problem, its their passionate fans who are the biggest areses, but its warranted. Braves fans turned out to be cool even though they had their noses to the rest of the leagues for so long. The philthies make you want to add another 10,000 loses to them immediatley.
By bfan54
September 7, 2008 7:01 PM | Link to this
While I am no great fan of Bobby Cox, it is important to keep things in perspective. He did not strand a single of the 34 (repeat 34) baserunners. Look at the ERA’s we trotted out tonight (and, face it, we don’t have better ones we were holding back. No, BC didn’t give up those hits or walk those batters.
Truth is, we don’t have the horses to hold ‘em anymore. I hate the thought, but were gonna lose 92-95 games this year; the best manager in the ML’s can’t change our lineup sufficiently enough to make a difference. I say leave the man alone, the stink of this team covers everyone!
By bfan54
September 7, 2008 7:01 PM | Link to this
While I am no great fan of Bobby Cox, it is important to keep things in perspective. He did not strand a single of the 34 (repeat 34) baserunners. Look at the ERA’s we trotted out tonight (and, face it, we don’t have better ones we were holding back. No, BC didn’t give up those hits or walk those batters.
Truth is, we don’t have the horses to hold ‘em anymore. I hate the thought, but were gonna lose 92-95 games this year; the best manager in the ML’s can’t change our lineup sufficiently enough to make a difference. I say leave the man alone, the stink of this team covers everyone!
By Brian
September 7, 2008 7:08 PM | Link to this
MutMan- Muts fans are almost if not even with Phillies fans, as far as being rude, obnoxios and baseball ignorant. So you eat your own words saying that. I told you, son, your Muts are gonna CHOKE!!! It’s just like I said when you and Anders come on here and diss us and the Braves… YOU’RE LIKE A LITTLE PODDLE SCRATCHING A PITBULL AFTER IT GOT SHOT
By cabravesfan
September 7, 2008 7:10 PM | Link to this
bfan54 34? really? damn that is brutal…but you are right- can’t blame cox for not executing
By McFann Ô
September 7, 2008 7:16 PM | Link to this
Kentavo Okay, to the folks out there that say manager/Cox don’t affect outcome of ballgames.
Haha! It wasn’t Bobby’s idea! Nya-nanny boo-boo!
DOB—
Yes, very much like that LaRoche thing. It wasn’t the best idea in the world, that’s for sure…
And 3-6? Uh…He must’ve been thinking of Mariano Rivera or something, because a .500 AVG isn’t really “trouble”…
McCann conceded it was a mistake
Haha…Yeah! Maybe it wouldn’t have been so bad if it would have worked, but bad AB nonetheless.
By Tomas
September 7, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this
The Nats steal the win again. Damn Boyer. Bobby rested him for five days and he comes in and gives up 2 runs.
By Flustered Fan
September 7, 2008 7:29 PM | Link to this
Man, I’m glad football season is back. Looked like the Falcons and Dawgs might give us something to be happy about.
By ncscoots
September 7, 2008 7:31 PM | Link to this
McCann was bunting on his own? OK. But, after the first attempt, did no one think to give him the “swing away” sign? They have one, right? Right? Have mercy.
Did no one in the dugout scream, “WTF?”? Just because the player suffered brainlock on the first pitch doesn’t mean you just sit there and hope he comes out of it.
Man alive. I don’t usually nitpick the on-field decisions, because fans don’t have enough information to know why any particular decision is made. But, geez Louise. Maybe the Braves should have a “swing away, DAMMIT!” sign…maybe that might have gotten the idea across.
By Tomas
September 7, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this
Well on a positive note, Reyes threw a great game. Way to bounce back. But Boyer blew it. Julian Tavarez has actually been a better pitcher than him.
By Tomas
September 7, 2008 7:36 PM | Link to this
DOB, I think Kelly is a great player but he is not a difference making player and has more trade value than Prado, so why not include Kelly in a deal to get a difference making player. A cleanup hitter who hits for power.
By McFann Ô
September 7, 2008 7:37 PM | Link to this
I remember another time when McCann decided to bunt without Bobby telling him to…
April 22, 2007, against Pedro Feliciano; McCann got hit on the ring finger, and he wasn’t the same at the plate for the rest of the year.
Seems like every time he takes it upon himself to bunt, something goes wrong. His intentions aren’t too bad, but the results are…
By Hit, Heap, Hit
September 7, 2008 7:39 PM | Link to this
Heap…dude..We don’t need you injured trying to belly flop to first to beat out the throw. : )
I’m really surprised any team is still willing to take a chance on Dukes. His attitude doesn’t seem to have improved much, if at all. I know it’s a minor thing but flipped out pockets? A lot of managers in baseball wouldn’t put up with that, and I’m certainly no Bobby apologist but I’m glad the Braves don’t put up with crap like that.
By McFann Ô
September 7, 2008 7:40 PM | Link to this
Um…Actually, the Braves as a team left 14 men on base.
If you add the total number of MLOB by each individual player, you get 34, but adding the total number that were stranded at the end of an inning, it’s 14.
That’s what the boxscore says.
By David O'Brien
September 7, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this
Sorry, ncscoots, but no one’s fault but McCann in this case. No one’s.
By David O'Brien
September 7, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this
And I’d add, very commendable for McCann (as usual) to be a standup guy, no excuses, waiting at his locker to admit he’d made mistake.
By the way, fingers pointed at Boyer, without names. About as close to throwing under the bus as you’ll hear in Bravesland.
Here’s from gamer:
“Same old story,” said Chipper Jones, who had three hits including a two-run double in the second inning. “We can’t get outs in the seventh and eighth innings to get the ball to Gonzo [closer Mike Gonzalez].
“Yeah, we had scoring opportunities offensively. But you’d just like to see games you have firmly in your grasp … won. We haven’t been able to bridge the gap between the starters and the closer.”
AND COX: “We walk a guy that never had a base hit in his career,” Cox said, referring to Montz, who’s 0-for-9 with one walk – the walk by Boyer. “And we walk him.”
By TennesseePaul
September 7, 2008 7:51 PM | Link to this
DOB: Thanks for the latest. Always enjoy the read.
ncscoots: I was watching on Gameday. All I could think was “why does it say ‘foul bunt’?” That was akin to LaRoche a few years ago. As much as I advocate knowing and being able to execute the fundamentals, it implies proper use of the fundamentals and McCann shouldn’t be bunting.
So, I was wondering, I haven’t seen the news flash… does this pen stink?
By fastasballs
September 7, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this
Well I’m glad I didn’t watch today’s game. If a season ever needed to be finished it’s the Braves 2008 season.
I think the Braves are slotted to draft 5th or 6th if the seaon ended today. They could improve that position a few spots based on their schedule the next three weeks. 12 games with the Phillies & Mets. 3 with the suddenly hot Astros & 3 with Colorado which has played better of late. I can honestly see them finishing 4-14 or worse.
I’m really looking forward to the offseason to see what moves are made. I’m excited about the farm system as well. Tons of talent & a lot of pitchers finishing the season strong like Redmond, Hanson, Rohrbough, Medlin & Parr.
Much better days are a head for this team. It may not be in 2009 simply because there are so many needs & most of the vast talent on the farm won’t be ready by then. Some may be, but not the majority. Wren can still accomplish a lot with the money that will be available.
This won’t be a dead off season, that’s for sure.
By Jeff321
September 7, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this
Well on a positive note, Reyes threw a great game. Way to bounce back. But Boyer blew it. Julian Tavarez has actually been a better pitcher than him.
I agree about JoJo. And btw, Tavarez is better than Bennett too.
However, look forward to next year with no Tavarez and lots and lots of Boyer & Bennett.
By ncscoots
September 7, 2008 7:54 PM | Link to this
DOB, I know what you’re saying, re McCann. Really. It was just so damn Twilight Zone to see it happening, unstopped. Kinda like a car wreck in slow motion. Just some transference on my part, most likely, since I jumped up out of my chair and tried to snatch a knot in McCann’s head through my TV.
HD makes you think you can do that, you know.
By bruce
September 7, 2008 8:01 PM | Link to this
McFann I’ll gladly give you my Aug CT… what is best way to send it to you?
By McFann Ô
September 7, 2008 8:02 PM | Link to this
DOB—
Yep! Very commendable indeed! Always ready to admit a mistake…I love that guy…
And good quotes from Chipper and Bobby. Thanks for those. Yeah, this game goes back to Boyer.
By bfan54
September 7, 2008 8:02 PM | Link to this
To the blog. All knowledgeble students of the game know that a relief pitcher’s ERA can be misleading, and certainly his W-L record is, and as we all know “about lies, damned lies, and statistics”, what I would like to know is where does one obtain stats on (1) the opposition (1) batting average against, and, (2) opposing team’s on-base percentage against the pitcher is. The current reporting statistics (see MLB.com) report a lot of other data - much of it relatively meaningless - but not this info. Any help for me?
Seems to me how the other team hits against you, and your strikeout-walk ratio, are the two (and perhaps only) measures of success.
By BravesFanInRockies
September 7, 2008 8:03 PM | Link to this
Yikes.
As for Boyer — what are the chances he won’t be moved in the offseason? When Bobby stops making excuses for players (even though he almost never calls the guy by name), that guy is typically on his way out.
Just remember what happened to Macay McBride. And Bob Wickman.
By Efrim
September 7, 2008 8:03 PM | Link to this
How about Tom Brady folks? Yahoo Sports is reporting a torn ACL.
By ncscoots
September 7, 2008 8:03 PM | Link to this
By the way, fingers pointed at Boyer, without names. About as close to throwing under the bus as you’ll hear in Bravesland.
Wow. Boyer’s toast. Those comments are more like “under the bus”, and then, “backing up on purpose”, instead of the Braves’ usual public persona. If he’s fallen into that much disfavor, it’s hard to imagine he’ll survive the offseason.
By Kentavo
September 7, 2008 8:04 PM | Link to this
To all denizens, I stand corrected as McCann did bunt on his own - my bad. I didn’t think he was that LaRoachian.
No, Bobby did not strand 34 runners.
But he did put Boyer in the game when it could have been Ohman, who was used anyway. What’s the difference? Why not go ahead and use Ohman, skip Boyer, and give Boyer some work'' as Bobby likes to say, when the game is not on the line? Why would Boyerneed some work”? Isn’t he leading the majors in appearances?
By Metropolitan Man
September 7, 2008 8:04 PM | Link to this
Brian Dont let game frustrations lead u 2 think that an allegiance change is necessary. Your pitbull is now the poodle you speak of. Watch what money can by as Santana restores order 2nite. METS dont face da philthies no more this year, we will see who wants it more.
By Metropolitan Man
September 7, 2008 8:06 PM | Link to this
Brian Dont let game frustrations lead u 2 think that an allegiance change is necessary. Your pitbull is now the poodle you speak of. Watch what money can by as Santana restores order 2nite. METS dont face da philthies no more this year, we will see who wants it more.
By Brian
September 7, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this
We all realize Boyer is worn down but no excuse for those walks. He lost my respect when he didn’t retaliate after that little prick Lilly, hit Escobar up around the neck. He’s a big tub of RED GOO!!!
By Efrim
September 7, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this
Fastasballs
I was thinking that same thing too. 18 games to go, 12 against the Phillies and Mets. 8-10 would most likely still get them a top 6-7 choice. How about Aaron Crow? Ace potential. Regardless, yes, the Braves future is bright with the young talent in the system.
By Steve from OH
September 7, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this
Well, Efrim, look on the bright side….Strasburg might demand an exorbitant amount of money and then fall to us! Ah, it doesn’t hurt to dream….but I wouldn’t intentionally lose to get him. In any case, the way we’re playing, it looks like it may not matter, because even when we try to win we find new and exciting ways to lose.
But I definitely agree that Crow would be nice, too. Actually, Keith Law ranked Crow as the 4th best pitching prospect in the draft next season. We’ll see. But I’d sure like to see us get an advanced college player instead of a high school prospect.
By Efrim
September 7, 2008 8:35 PM | Link to this
I think I saw someone mention Magglio Ordonez earlier. While I really like him, I can’t imagine the Tigers giving him up too easily. He is also owed 18 million next season, with expensive options two years after that if he gets enough plate appearences. Very good hitter though. Would sure look nice in between Chipper and Heap next year.
By TNJeff
September 7, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this
With 18 games left Boyer has the opportunity to blow more saves than the team leader (Gonzo) has saves.
He can do it and despite Cox’s comments complaining about the Goo boy (Boyer) - Cox continues to put him in there to blow games.
Boyer stinks - the players know it (Chipper). How soon until the players start commenting on idiotic managing decisions?
This team has a will to lose
By Steve from OH
September 7, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this
And here’s a scouting report
Here’s one on Strasburg
By Tomas
September 7, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this
I hope they diagnise Boyer with arm fatigue, and end his season already. For his own good. And next season come to spring training ready to pitch.
By the way DOB, how is Acosta doing?
By Efrim
September 7, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this
Steve from OH
I actually asked Law about USC SS Grant Green falling to the Braves on his Top 60 draft prospects blog, his response was:
It’s possible they’ll have a shot at him by finishing in the bottom 5, but I don’t know the last time they either signed a Boras advisee or went significantly over slot in the first round …
Strasburg, Ackley, Gibson are all Boras advisees. Not sure what that all means, but I hope the Braves wouldn’t shy away from them. It would really suck. I want the Braves to take a college bat or pitcher. In terms of high schoolers, Matt Davidson(3B from CA) and Donovan Tate(CF from GA) are the highest rated players. There seems to be a couple of really good college pitchers like Strasburg, Crow, Gibson, White and Oliver. Green and Ackley are the best bats.
By loser patrol
September 7, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this
Good Lord McFann, why don’t you try logging off for once. I mean really. Don;t you ever do anything else besides hang out on this blog? Go outside. Read a book perhaps. Maybe volunteer locally. But you really need a life.
By 22oz
September 7, 2008 9:10 PM | Link to this
Did everyone vote for Skip for the HOF today?
www.baseballhalloffame.org
By Steve from OH
September 7, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this
That first scouting report is on Crow, in case anyone’s wondering.
Efrim, yeah, I don’t see the Braves selecting a Boras client unless he’s truly “head and shoulders” above the other players available to them (especially after the Alvarez fiasco). Strasburg is, so I’d bet they’ll take him if they have the chance. But I would hope that they wouldn’t shy away from good college players b/c of Boras, especially if Liberty is opening the pocketbook like they’ve promised. I agree with you on taking a college player. It would be nice to take a guy and have him shoot through our system and be ready in 1-2 years.
By Steve from OH
September 7, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this
loser patrol:
Hey, bro, everyone’s got things they like to do. Sounds to me like the guy coming on an anonymous forum making fun of a young kid is the one that needs a life. Betcha wouldn’t say it to her face.
By Couch Tater
September 7, 2008 9:31 PM | Link to this
Mets or Phillies? Phillies or Mets? Hmmm.
N’Sync or Backstreet Boys?
By Coach (Skip will be missed)
September 7, 2008 9:45 PM | Link to this
The good news ( depending on your draft pick wishes) is if the Braves keep on beating themselves, they have a real shot at finishing in the bottom five teams.
Eighteen games left, all against teams with better records. It’s going to get worse (record wise) and better (draft pick) for our dysfunctional baseball team. I can see this team losing 14 or 15 of the remaining 18 contests.
As far as Bobby being voted best manager, It made me wink my eye and brought a smile to my face.
The Braves will probably draft a college pitcher or at least, I think that should be the number one priority.
How about them dirty birds? Sure, the Lions stink. but a win is a win and the Falcons appear to have the running game in order.
By Bobby Cox
September 7, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this
Boyer is a red headed pecker wood!!! He’s as good as gone as soon as I wear his arm off, for sure!!
By Efrim
September 7, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this
Steve from OH
Grant Green is my choice if we take a bat. I doubt we get high enough to select Strasbourg, so I’ll have to say White would be my preference.
By BravesFanInRockies
September 7, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this
Steve
What are the chances that Wren will start pursuing college players with high draft picks? Devine’s the only instance I can think of in recent years the Braves did taht, and I think that was in desperation. There really weren’t any closer prospects near ML level and they thought he might be able to help the big club in ‘05 or ‘06. (And that didn’t work out too well.)
I’d sure like to see them go after top college prospects, too. But that would be a big change in philosophy.
By caballo muerto
September 7, 2008 10:07 PM | Link to this
So, steveoh, you support the idea of a teenager spending every waking hour on an adult sports blog.
Good one, Chief!
And I’d be glad to tell you to your face.
By Steve from OH
September 7, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this
Not saying Wren will take a college guy, just saying I’d like him to. If I had to guess, based on slot/philosophy/pure guess, I’d bet FW takes Matt Davidson, a high school kid from California.
By cabravesfan
September 7, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this
caballo muerto Since when was this an “adult” blog? I thought it was a blog for Braves fans…and since McFann lends more intellgent comments then the majority of people who post I would lay off…why do you care so much who she spends her time?
By Brian
September 7, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this
I’m 26. Am I too young to write on this blog?
By BravesFanInRockies
September 7, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this
No way the Braves get him, but Jayson Werth would look good in a Braves uni.
I’ve liked him since he was a Dodger. He won’t be a FA until after the ‘09 season, unfortunately.
By flbravesgirl
September 7, 2008 10:52 PM | Link to this
McFann, I’m pretty sure you can buy back issues directly from Choptalk.
By StingerSplash
September 7, 2008 11:06 PM | Link to this
**Mets or Phillies? Phillies or Mets? Hmmm.
N’Sync or Backstreet Boys?**
Good one, Tater, good one.
By cooper
September 7, 2008 11:13 PM | Link to this
Games like today are great reminders that (apart from McCann, Chipper, Escobar and JJ) everyone on this team should be considered under evaluation and trade pieces for this winter.
The Nats may have the Brave’s number but come on they are the Nats.
Embarrassing weekend which showcased this team’s many flaws and bipolar pitching.
Might as well give us another 20 games like today so Wren will have no excuses or emotional attachment for many players on this club.
AAAA beach party is what we are watching.
By Steve
September 7, 2008 11:14 PM | Link to this
DOB- have you heard anything on the future of the Braves radio broadcasters? Is Mark Lemke going to be the full time replacement for Skip next year? Any chance of getting Don Sutton back?
By Steve from OH
September 7, 2008 11:20 PM | Link to this
You can go after me all you want, I ain’t afraid of a little scrap. (and I’m not a teenager, either, for what it’s worth. If you’ve read my posts carefully, you should be able to deduce my age). But you’ve got to be pretty yellow to go after a young kid who contributes a lot of good stuff to the blog and is polite to everyone she engages in conversation(not that I think she can’t defend herself, but she shouldn’t have to). Keep doing what you’re doing, McFann, there’s lots of people here who enjoy your posts.
I apologize to the rest of the blog for this, as I really, really like to stick to baseball, and I try not to stray from baseball (or sometimes college football) related topics, but I felt like this was something that needed to be said. Again, sincerest apologies. Moving on….
By flbravesgirl
September 7, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this
I think Don is selling his Atlanta home, Steve, so I would guess the chances aren’t good there.
By TennesseePaul
September 7, 2008 11:43 PM | Link to this
DOB: throwing Boyer under the bus? Do you mean to say Bobby didn’t tell him to do that? I thought Cox was the reason…
By N8
September 7, 2008 11:48 PM | Link to this
DOB
Your 4:33 post was one of your best. Well done. LOVE the sarcasm.
“Mets or Phillies? Phillies or Mets? Hmmm….N’Sync or Backstreet Boys?”*
If I was forced to root for one of the above, I’m going with the Backstreet Boys. The Mets and Phillies are too big of sissies for me.
By Chop Chop
September 8, 2008 12:32 AM | Link to this
The Mets and Phils deserve credit for being better than our pansy-assed team. That makes three years in a row. That’s a full-blown trend, ain’t it?
If the Mets and Phils are N’Sync or Backstreet Boys, I guess the Braves are O-Town.
Lord, have mercy.
By Vince
September 8, 2008 12:35 AM | Link to this
Also on the shopping list a legit cleanup hitter. Since GIVING Tex to the angels now the braves need a 1st baseman and a cleanup hitter. About as good a trade as Len “Stinking’ Barker.
By Robert S
September 8, 2008 12:49 AM | Link to this
I think when fans boo Boyer, they’re actually saying, “goooooooooo……”
They’ve been doing that a lot lately, eh??
By David O'Brien
September 8, 2008 1:08 AM | Link to this
Stinger, you’re right about Piaf. That’d be cool. You see the movie, by the way? Dug it, gotta admit.
Had a date tonight and we saw another outstanding movie, Frozen River. Not for those who want cheery flicks or pyrotechnics, just a richly developed character study with a lot of suspense, too, and with one of the better acting performances I’ve seen this year, by Melissa Leo.
By David O'Brien
September 8, 2008 2:09 AM | Link to this
Steve, haven’t heard anything about the future of the broadcast team, radio or TV….
Helluva game for the Falcons today. But since I’ve got a feeling the Lions are at least as awful as the Lions have been in recent years, we’ll have to wait and see before making judgments on these Falcons. But certainly plenty of reason to to feel better about them than most did before the season began….
My man Brett Favre, still getting it done. I’m not a Jets fan, but I’m a huge Favre fan, so I gotta hope his team does well.
By TheAntiMe
September 8, 2008 2:54 AM | Link to this
I would still like to see the Braves take a shot at The Marlins 2nd baseman Dan Uggla, who will be a free agent at the end of this season and should be signable for not too much more than the Braves were paying for Mark Kotsay.
Why does it matter if it’s your 2nd baseman who hits 35 home runs and 95+ RBI instead of your left fielder? It still counts the same on the scoreboard, as RBI by outfielders count no more than RBI by infielders do.
By TheAntiMe
September 8, 2008 3:19 AM | Link to this
BTW guys, I am pretty stoked right now at the notion that this time next week I’ll be playing Rock Band 2 on my Fisher-Price guitar with pretty button.
Rock on, DOB and fellow Braves rockers!!!
By BravesFan79
September 8, 2008 4:03 AM | Link to this
Antime: great idea man… get Uggla! I say we get Uggla…and make KJ a platoon/backup player therefore giving us more pop on the bench. Then get Jermaine Dye, and sign a ACE! CC, or Sheets.
Whys dude coming down on mccfan?..u need to get a life cat! and mcfanns a chic? neverknew that… but your input on this blog is great… keep it up… glad to have ya… mc-fan… not mc-a*****
By Bobby's Cox
September 8, 2008 6:01 AM | Link to this
McCann bunting on his own?
2 runners on, 0 out, why is McCann pinch hitting in the first place? There’s a time to bunt, and there’s a time not to. In extra innings in a tie game, as the home team, you bunt in that situation. McCann was thinking what Cox should’ve done all along.
I still blame Cox. Cox didn’t pull the right strings. You have a pitcher or lillibridge bunt, then bring in mccann to drive home the runner if need be. That was misuse of a PH. The situation called for a bunt…even our catcher knew it.
By Bobby's Cox
September 8, 2008 6:09 AM | Link to this
DOB a favre fan eh?
Couple that with Kotsay & it sounds like you are fans of grungy, rugged dudes
By TIMEFORCHANGE
September 8, 2008 7:08 AM | Link to this
They have a lot to do to improve this club even a little…..Nine pitchers to go 3 innings. Ya know thats just a little much. Where in the world are these pitchers coming from and why cant Bobby leave them in to pitch. Its not a wonder our pen is pathetic. Our starter gives up 1 run on 4 hits and goes 6. The pend emplodes per ususal.
Johnson is hot now but I still dont think his defense is good enough and he goes cold so often thoughout the season. When we have such glaring holes to fill, Johnson sticks out like a sore eye. He might be ok if our lineup was not dead and filled with utility players at best. I fear the will lose some heavy attendance next year if they dont sign some players this off season, 2 of which better be #1 pitchers who are YOUNGER!
Love your column DB. Thanks
By TIMEFORCHANGE
September 8, 2008 7:08 AM | Link to this
They have a lot to do to improve this club even a little…..Nine pitchers to go 3 innings. Ya know thats just a little much. Where in the world are these pitchers coming from and why cant Bobby leave them in to pitch. Its not a wonder our pen is pathetic. Our starter gives up 1 run on 4 hits and goes 6. The pend emplodes per ususal.
Johnson is hot now but I still dont think his defense is good enough and he goes cold so often thoughout the season. When we have such glaring holes to fill, Johnson sticks out like a sore eye. He might be ok if our lineup was not dead and filled with utility players at best. I fear the will lose some heavy attendance next year if they dont sign some players this off season, 2 of which better be #1 pitchers who are YOUNGER!
Love your columns DB. Thanks
By flange1
September 8, 2008 8:29 AM | Link to this
Morning All,
A nice effort by Jo Jo thrown away by the bullpen. Interesting comments from Chipper and B Cox about the culprit.
It really is a shame that Boyer has regressed so much. The guy has a decent arm and if he would begin to listen to his coaches, he would have the chance to become a good pitcher.
But it appears that he has attitude issues and now the floodgates of negative comments has opened. Boyer will not be in the organization long.
Same thing happened with Wickman, McBride, Colon and Spoonybarger.
I still think if he would develop a cutter and use his curveball WAY less, Boyer could be a top flight set up man.
Maybe for someone else.
By matches
September 8, 2008 9:03 AM | Link to this
DOB, I was among the many headed for the exits after 9. Would’ve loved to stay for all 14 innings, but had to drive back to Charlotte after the game. It’s not really so bizarre when you’ve got lots of folks attending from out of town (as I assume the Braves do on weekends).
By braves70
September 8, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this
They threw Boyer under the bus? Aw shoot, I never got a chance to run him over on my own for all the pain he has caused people on this blog. Is there a bit of goo left that I could drive through and splatter down the drain pipe?
By David O'Brien
September 8, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this
Matches: Understood. In your shoes, I’d have probably done the same thing, given how little the games meant this weekend.
By David O'Brien
September 8, 2008 9:53 AM | Link to this
Bobby’s Cox: You got that right.
By Steve from OH
September 8, 2008 10:18 AM | Link to this
DOB, do you think we will see Acosta again this season?
By DAP
September 8, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this
i was at the game on saturday night, and most everyone stayed. in fact, the crowd was pretty into it, and was great especially during the comeback in the 9th. the would-be game winning double by kelly was pretty exciting. but, when langerhans hit the homerun in the top of the tenth, it really deflated everyone. i went to sleep thinking about kelly’s double bouncing over the wall…
By Oz
September 8, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this
is it possible, bad news bravos getting worse? tampa bay bandwagon hittin’ bumps in a socky (red sox) road…but no, first song learned on guitar: SMOKE ON THE WATER (a fire in the the sky-i), baby! i love the part about frank zappa, too
By Oz
September 8, 2008 11:11 AM | Link to this
…i don’t have anyone to vote for prez since he died
By Efrim
September 8, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this
Steve from OH
Not saying Wren will take a college guy, just saying I’d like him to. If I had to guess, based on slot/philosophy/pure guess, I’d bet FW takes Matt Davidson, a high school kid from California.
It’s early, but I agree.
By Goodoleboy58
September 8, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this
Sorry yall I missed yesterday was too caught up in football land. After the Falcons game though I tuned on MLB.tv in time to see McCann called on as a pinch-hitter to bunt. I’m still scratching my head, I’ll leave it at that.
By Lew
September 8, 2008 11:41 AM | Link to this
Steve from Oh-Why are you apologizing, Dude? Never heard you give anyone crap before. All you did was stick up for another blogger. I think more of you for it (not that I ever had a reason to think you anything but upstanding). Sometimes the dipsh!ts need to be reminded they’re dipsh!ts. They aren’t very smart and are quite forgetful.
As to the idea of acquiring Uggla. If KJ is traded, I don’t really have a problem with Uggla (though his defense is no improvement over Kelly’s), but he’s going to cost a lot more as a FA than Kotsay’s $2mil. Count on it. I’m thinking more like $8-10 mil-maybe more.
Oz-You’re right about that-Zappa would have been an incredible Pres.. Not too sure about his diplomatic skills, but there would likely never have been a dull moment. No matter what you say about the guy, he was quite intelligent and he was not the burnout that many thought he was-not too sure he even did drugs, despite his image. I was lucky-saw the One Size Fits All Tour in front row center seats (Mercer put the show on in Macon). He had Jean Luc Ponty, Ian Underwood, George Duke and Aynsley Dunbar touring with him, What a show!!!!!!
Underwood or Ponty as Secretary of Music? Works for me. Not certain about Dweezil for Secretary of State and I’m not too sure how a VP named Moon Unit would go over. Can she field dress a moose?
By David O'Brien
September 8, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this
Goodoleboy, read the posts above, starting right after the game ended. McCann bunted on his own, and admitted after the game he screwed up doing so. He thought with the afternoon shadows and a pitcher with good movement on his pitches, that he’d have a better chance to move the runners over than he did of driving them in. As I said, he acknowledged afterward it was a bad decision.
By Couch Tater
September 8, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this
For those calling for Pat Burrell; He certainly has Phillies fans frustrated. Last 10… 6 for 37, one extra base hit and he hit .181 in August. .212 since the allstar break.
By BravesFanInRockies
September 8, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this
Looks like the Tigers will indeed shed payroll this winter.
Magglio might be out there. Would Dombrowski make another deal with the Braves? For a starter and/or SS (Lilli)?
By ncscoots
September 8, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this
In extra innings in a tie game, as the home team, you [somebody besides McCann] bunt in that situation.
No. You don’t. That just means that if McCann PH next, he gets walked intentionally, you have a force in effect at home, DPs at every base, all sorts of bad things, the worst being that Heap doesn’t get to swing the bat. The winning run is already in scoring position, and it’s the only one you need. You most assuredly do not freakin’ bunt. You get your best available hitter up there, with 1B not open, and swing away.
Which makes that McCann brainlock all the more bizarre.
By David O'Brien
September 8, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this
Mind-boggling numbers that never cease to amaze me: Livan Hernandez is 1-12 with a 6.42 ERA in his past 17 starts against the Braves.
This from the guy who famously went 3-0 with a 1.89 ERA in three postseason games (two starts) earlier in his career, in 1997 and 2002.
By David O'Brien
September 8, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this
Blaine Boyer has both the third-highest number of appearances (74) among NL relievers and the third-highest relief ERA (5.50). Not a good combo for the Bravos.
By Goodoleboy58
September 8, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this
DOB-
My mistake I’ll read more thoroughly next time. He was trying to help the team so I cant blame him for that, I just think we can all agree he does a little better swinging the stick in that department. If any of those bunts would have gotten down then none of this would even be up for discussion. Oh wel we got a much needed off day.
By DAP
September 8, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this
bravesfaninrockies magglio would be great, but i dont see anything in the article suggesting that payrole will be cut, or that they might trade a guy like him.
what i get from it, is that they will try to win in 2009, which means that trading magglio to us is unlikley, unless they get jurjens back. i think they will get a cheap, defensive SS (maybe one they aleady have) to replace edgar, and go after mid-level pitching with the salary relief from pudge and renteria.
of course, they may try to dump mag’s $15mil salary so they can try to sign sabathia or sheets. either way, mags would be ideal. as would jermaine dye, or jason bay. i hope we pull off something big.
By David O'Brien
September 8, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this
Livan was originally scheduled to start Tuesday, but they switched it. He’s going Wednesday, Cook’s starting tomorrow.
By Run Heap Run
September 8, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this
McFann
I’ll give you my August issue of Chop Talk if you want it - email the address to blakeorama@gmail.com :)
By David O'Brien
September 8, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this
Goodoleboy, no doubt he can help team more swinging away. That’s what he was sent up there to do.
And you’re right about the bunts. Worst bunting team I can remember. Been terrible all season. Definitely something they should work on more frequently. There’s no excuse for not doing that.
By Anders
September 8, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this
DOB
Since you were out at the movies last night I’m sure you missed Joe Morgan’s take on the difference between this years Mets in September and last years team. Johan Santana. He went on to say the Mets didn’t have a bonafide ace to stop the bleeding and give them a gutsy performance when they needed it most. Then he and Jon Miller even named Glavine as the culprit and talked about his last game that fateful Sunday among his other horrors in late September.
Hmmm…. Now where have we heard this analysis before?
By David O'Brien
September 8, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this
Now THIS is dominace, from scouting box I’m doing for Colorado series: Brian Fuentes has a 0.73 ERA and .120 opponents’ average with 14-of-14 saves converted in 25 appearances since July 1. He has 43 strikeouts with seven walks in 24-2/3 innings in that stretch. In his last 10 appearances, Fuentes has allowed three hits and one walk with 19 strikeouts in 10 scoreless innings.
By Goodoleboy58
September 8, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this
DOB-
Cook going tomorrow huh.. What is the over/under on double plays we ground into? I dont think he’s pitched too well since the Allstar game but he put on a clinic to save face for Uggla. I just looked up his stats on ESPN.com and he’s 2nd in the majors (behind Buehrle’s 26) with 25 GIDP this year. You may ask “Who leads the Braves pitching staff in Double Plays induced?” Well Huddy is still our leader with 16; after that Jo Jo Reyes with 14 and Jair with 13.
By David O'Brien
September 8, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this
You still talking about Glavine and the Mets? Oh, OK.
By the Donger
September 8, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this
DOB - you should check out “Heart of Stone,” Chris Knight’s new album for some excellent songwriting if you don’t know him.
By Bobby's Cox
September 8, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this
Scoots
You do bunt in that situation. 29 of 30 teams would’ve done it. The Nats likely would’ve walked blanco next anyway to load the bases. Then you put pressure on the pitcher to throw strikes with the bases juiced against prado who has shown numerous times this year to hit the sac fly. You have more chances of scoring the runner from 3rd than you do with a hit, especially with the afternoon shadows moving in and with a pitcher with good movement like BMac said. Put pressure on the D and the pitcher man.
I never said anything about bringing in McCann at that point. I said if need be. I would’ve liked McCann to have been batting with 2 outs in the 14th with 2 runners on and down by 3.
They needed 1 run win, and Bobby played it wrong. It was bad for McCann to have been bunting, but someone else should’ve been. BMac saw that. Again, you do bunt in that situation. If you don’t, then you’re saying there’s absolutely no reason to ever bunt in Major League Baseball because that was the textbook time to do it.
Bad use of the bench.
By Brian
September 8, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this
Anders- I wouldn’t put too much faith in a guy(J.Morgan) who where’s lip gloss or vasoline or two gallons of chapstick. He and Steve Phillips are the biggest know it all,arrogant, guys on ESPN! That’s saying something!
By David O'Brien
September 8, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this
Goodoleboy, since you mentioned Cook, here’s what I just typed for the preview box: He’s 2-3 with a 7.12 ERA and .378 opponents’ average in his past six starts. However, he’s 6-1 with a 2.98 ERA in his past eight road starts, including a current four-start winning streak.
On Wednesday, he gave up 10 hits and six runs in a home loss against the Giants.
Cook is 0-1 with a 4.89 ERA in eight games (six starts) against the Braves, including a gem on April 7, when he allowed one run and two hits in seven innings and got no decision in a Rockies win.
By Efrim
September 8, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this
Anders
While I think it is ridiculous that some here downplayed the Johan acquisition, Joe Morgan and Jon Miller aren’t exactly the guys to be quoting. Their analysis is usually pretty bad. Now, Gary Cohen, Keith Hernandez and Ron Darling…..that is some analysis!
By BB FAN
September 8, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this
This has probably already been said…Why the %&*@ does Cox keep using Blaine Boyer? Why? Why? Why? I just don’r understand it!! The kid had a solid first half despite being overused but has completely ran out of gas the second half. Boyer has had 2 years of injuries coming into this season and Cox used him so much, I’m surprised his arm hasn’t fallen off.
I know some will say Cox had no other alternatives this year, but that is BS. Especially now with Sept call ups. Even during the season, he could have been put him on the DL with a tired arm or something. Even if the guy that would have been brought up picthed as bad as Boyer, at least it would not have been due to fatigue and overuse.
And I know some will say he is a major leaguer, he should pitch whenever needed. That is ridiculous when dealing with a young guy coming off from 2 years of injuries.
I am a huge fan of Bobby Cox. I believe the Braves won multiple divsions because of Cox, when they had no business winning them. (1991, 1999, 2002, 2004 and 2005 are the years that come to mind) I believe he is one of the best managers of all time. I believe he is a first ballad Hall Of Famer. However, he just doesn’t have what it takes any more. So many of the things he does makes absolutely no sense. Up until last year, I disagreed with “Robert” saying that Cox needed to go. But now, I believe that it would be best for the Braves if he retired after the year.
By Goodoleboy58
September 8, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this
Have yall seen the absolute tear Raul Ibanez has been on in the 2nd half?
12 homers, 47 RBI’s and 69 basehits since July 15th. He about surpasses our whole OF production in not even two months of baseball. AND he’s a free-agent and not suppose to make the huge $$. Not Sayin’ Just Sayin’… I’m on the bandwagon for next year.
By Braves20
September 8, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this
Long time away from the blog. What’s to add that hasn’t already been added? We suck.
But the classic Bobby Cox autumn move in yesteday’s 14 inning debacle brought back flashbacks of ‘91 and ‘92, Charlie Leibrandt and all the rest.
A bunt by a power hitting catcher who can’t outrun Cox. Especially with people like Hampton and Lillibridge on the bench who actually can bunt - at least Hampton can. I haven’t seen anything that Lillibridge can do well as of yet.
By Goodoleboy58
September 8, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this
Braves20
As I’ve been corrected on already B-Mac bunted on his on not from direction of the skipper.
By Goodoleboy58
September 8, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this
Braves20
As I’ve been corrected on already B-Mac bunted on his on not from direction of the skipper.
By MDBraveFan
September 8, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this
DOB - didn’t know you had such varied musical tastes! I do love Miles; “Kind of Blue” is the best. Check out Chris Botti’s “Italia” - very nice; his duets album is also nice. I’ve moved on from the Braves for this year. Happy Serena kicked butt last night; hope Roger does the same today.
By DAP
September 8, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this
goodoleboy58 ibanez would be a pretty good option for us in 2009. he is a very solid veteran. i also like casey blake for LF. also, if the brewers decline mike cameron’s option, i would try to sign him as well.
what really has me puzzled is what the braves are going to do about the pitching. there are 44 free agent pitchers this offseason. thats alot. but, most of them arent worth anything. i would hate for the braves to be left with scraps on the free agent pile.
i dont know what kind of trades could be made, or if a guy like hanson could be ready for us next year, but we could really use a couple guys like jon garland. i dont think we are going to get any #1’s this time. but, if we have a staff full of good #3’s, maybe we can have a good enough offense and bullpen to win.
By Goodoleboy58
September 8, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this
I’m skimming through random stats how bout this:
Jair Jurrjens leads MLB Rookies with 2792 Pitches 2nd is Johnny Cueto 2747
By Brian
September 8, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this
BBFan - Noone can figure out Cox. You’ll drive yourself crazy trying! It’s just a waste of energy. I think he has some kind of spiritual experience right before these moves that tells him to do it. Or he’s just senile. I hope it’s just voices in his head, though.
By ben
September 8, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this
Worst team in baseball. The organization needs some shifting at the top, not at the bottom.
By Braveheart
September 8, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this
2 runners on, 0 out, why is McCann pinch hitting in the first place? There’s a time to bunt, and there’s a time not to. In extra innings in a tie game, as the home team, you bunt in that situation. McCann was thinking what Cox should’ve done all along. I still blame Cox. Cox didn’t pull the right strings. You have a pitcher or lillibridge bunt, then bring in mccann to drive home the runner if need be.
If you bunt, you bunt to put a man in scoring position. They already had a man in scoring position and three outs to play with to get the run in. But you want to needlessly give up an out to put two men into scoring position? For what darn reason? It only takes one darn run to win the game. What good are two runners in scoring position at home in a tie game in extra innings? no matter how it turned out, a second run was never gonna score.
a bunt made absolutely no sense regardless of the hitter but the absolute stupidity of it was highlighted by the potency of the particular hitter at the plate.
By David O'Brien
September 8, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this
Goodoleboy, I said a couple months ago that Raul Ibanez would be a great fit for Braves, because you could probably get him to a one-plus option or, at most, two-year deal. Perfect because it wouldn’t block the big prospects’ path.
By Goodoleboy58
September 8, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this
DAP
Yea I see what you are saying on the shortage of quality free agent pitchers… But that makes it even more important for us to get an Raul Ibanez and company to allow us to use other guys as bargaining chips. We have to have a surplus somewhere in order to get quality elsewhere.
By Efrim
September 8, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this
Jair Jurrjens leads MLB Rookies with 2792 Pitches 2nd is Johnny Cueto 2747
Not good.
Wagner to undergo Tommy John Surgery
I can already see Mets fans wanting to put down 80 million over 5 years for K Rod
By Goodoleboy58
September 8, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this
Anybody see this:
Billy Wagner will have Tommy John surgery on his elbow and likely miss much of next season, the Newark Star-Ledger reports. Newsday said that Wagner would tendon surgery, but has since altered the report to say ligament instead. This is the worst-case scenario for Wagner, but perhaps not for the Mets. With Wagner set to miss most of the final season of his four-year deal, tbey could enter the chase for Francisco Rodriguez this winter. Given that Wagner is 37 and a reliever, he’ll probably attempt to rush back from surgery. The All-Star break could be a target. Sep. 8 - 2:22 pm et Source: Newark Star-Ledger
Ouch
By Bobby's Cox
September 8, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this
you bunt to move the winning run 90 feet away that’s why.
maybe it’s an east coast west coast thing. i’ve never met so many people against bunting that the fans on this blog…EVER.
You bunt to take the away the double play….you bunt to bring the infielders in with blanco up, or force the opposing team to load the bases, in which case, the corner infielders would have to come in…this all plays to your advantage and creates holes in the fleld. You bunt so you can score with a sac fly. You bunt so you can win with a walk, a passed ball, a wild pitch, an error, a bad throw to the plate, the possibility of the catcher not being able to find the plate with his foot, an infield hit, etc…
You increase your chances so many ways. That’s why Braveheart….and you save mccann (your last power hitter off the bench) to when you need a HR or an extrabase hit, such as the bottom of the 14th.
I don’t why this is so hard for you or our manager to figure out. That’s fine, continue to play station to station with hits, and our inability to score runs in games like yesterday and the whole 2008 season will continue.
By DAP
September 8, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this
braveheart if it were me, i bunt in that situation. you want to make it possible to score that winning run without a hit. a sac fly, a gound ball to the 2nd baseman, a passed ball, and a runner on third scores. 1st and 2nd, you can hit into a double play have then you still need a hit or an error of some kind to win.
i would bunt in that situation, but definetly not with mccann. he says it was his decision, anyways….
By Goodoleboy58
September 8, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this
Bobby’s Cox
Seems like folks would understand its easier to score from 3rd then it is from 2nd huh
By NO MORE BOBBY
September 8, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this
Lets hope the Braves make changes from this year to next like they did 1990 season to 1991.
1990
1991
Just looking at that 1990 lineup makes me feel sick.
By Braveheart
September 8, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this
I don’t why this is so hard for you or our manager to figure out. That’s fine, continue to play station to station with hits, and our inability to score runs in games like yesterday and the whole 2008 season will continue
It’s not station to station baseball. it’s smart baseball. What you are advocating is very dumb baseball.
By bobby black
September 8, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this
It’s time for somebody to pull the plug on Bobby Cox. Sit him down and let one of the minor league managers take over for the rest of the season. (Better yet forever) He has probable ruined Blaine Boyer’s arm from overwork and probably a couple of the others too. Boyer was at least a decent pitcher until his arm got to the point where it is about to fall off. They have enough bodies now to sit all of the overworked pitchers down for the rest of the season. What difference does it make if they lose the last 15- 20 games? They are not going anywhere anyway.
By McFann Ô
September 8, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this
Good afternoon, folks! Logged-off sooner than I expected last night, and our internet was down for most of the morning, so my life and I were getting better acquainted. (Steve from OH, cabravesfan et all, thanks for the backup last night! Wow, don’t know where that guy came from! Haha…craziness!)
Uh-oh…I come back to find TWO offers for a copy of the August ChopTalk! Thank you, Bruce and Run Heap Run! Hmm…Decisions, decisions!
Let me just ask one Q: Was that Chipper and BMac on the cover? I only saw the thing from a distance, so it was a little hard to tell.
By BravesFanInRockies
September 8, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this
As DOB reported (and repeated), Heap bunted on his own. It was a real brain f*rt. I don’t like the strategy at all. But even if it was the right move, it was with the wrong guy, and Brian should have known better.
By GeorgetownKid
September 8, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this
Some news from the farm
Not many folks are talking about it here, but both Myrtle Beach and Mississippi are playing in their leagues’ championship series.
So both our high-A and AA teams could be league champs!! The AA team has some real solid pitching (with one potential star in Hanson) and the high-A team has a very strong offense with several potential impact hitters, including several power hitters. The high-A team had the best regular season record in the league.
Very few (if any) of these prospects are ready for the bigs, but we should have a TON of high-level talent by the end of next year. As a result, we could have a very different and very young lineup in 2010.
And it bears mentioning that our low-A team was pretty good too. Heyward, Freeman and Cody Johnson formed a veritable murderers row.
The future is bright fellow denizens!! Whether or not the future includes next season is a different issue.
By Bobbymahlon
September 8, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this
If Bobby wanted to bunt why didn’t he bring in Hampton instead of McCann who hasn’t bunted in three years. I have seen Hampton bunt before and he is good at it. Also why doesn’t he play the hot hand, Prado lead all of baseball for the month of August and he benches him, oh yes the guy who relaces him has got his average up to .179, yippie. I think the game has passed by Bobby he sometimes looks like he does not want to walk all the way out to the mound to take a pitcher out. He is like Earl Weaver sit and wait for someone to hit a three run homerun and the problem with that is we do not have many home run hitters anymore. I guess we do not have much of anything anymore so why would a old man like Bobby want to manage another year while the Braves try to rebuild.
By Bobby's Cox
September 8, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this
i would bunt in that situation, but definetly not with mccann. he says it was his decision, anyways…. DAP
That’s the reason I’m making such an issue of this.
It seems Bobby has lost control of this team. People aren’t on the same page. McCann had his own idea what should’ve been done in that situation, and Bobby had another. Then you have the throwing guys under the bus without mentioning names in the clubhouse.
Here in LA, I’ve read numerous articles on the Dodgers and angels that I’ve posted on the blog this year. One was on Scioscia, and how the organization top to bottom learns how to play his style. Kids in the minors learn to play his style, so when they’re brought up, they fit right in.
Then I posted another on the Torre and the Dodgers, how Torre was trying to get guys to focus and be more selective at the plate, i.e. learn what to do in certain situations. The article said it was paying off in July, I think it’s paying off now as the Dodgers beat Webb and Haren back-to-back days in back-to-back weekends. (God i hate the dodgers).
Anyways, I love Bobby Cox, especially for building this organization from the ground up and the generation of a run to took us through. But for 3 months i’ve been reluctant to think his time has come.
Yesterday the icing for the cake met the spatula.
By Brian
September 8, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this
DOB- Sorry, but Raul Ibanez?? He’s OK if Francoeur can bounce back but if not, I don’t think it will be enough. I’ll be p** if that’s our answer next year! I agree on the OF prospects coming up but surely they can do better than Ibanez.
By Bobby's Cox
September 8, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this
goodoleboy Exactly.
Bravesfaninrockies That shows the disconnect i’m talking about. Either way, you have to point your finger at the manager. When a player is ill-informed like Mac was, that’s a communication error between manager and player. In terms of in-game strategy, the player should know what the manager has in mind…he didn’t. All it showed was that McCann didn’t agree or see eye-to-eye with the strategy. Not good.
By McFann Ô
September 8, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this
Ah, here’s a good one from MLB.com:
For a guy only 25 years old, Geovany Soto has already authored an impressive resume.
Hmm…Is that so? Now there is no doubt in my mind that he has, um “authored an impressive resume”. But where were these people in 2006?
For a guy only 22 years old, Brian McCann has already authored an impressive resume.
Oh, I know it’s because Grove is in line for ROY, but I’m just sayin’…
By GUT THE FARM and WIN NOW FOR COX
September 8, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this
Trade Heyward, Hanson and Hernandez for Halladay
Trade Rohrbough, Flowers, Schafer and Locke for Peavy
Sign Burrell
Sign Cameron
Sign AJ Burnett
Braves must win now before BC leaves!!!!
He is so important, we must GUT THE FARM!!!!
and we have to do it for Chipper too!!!!!!!!!!!!
By deez
September 8, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this
defense a wash??? K.J is not even an average secondbaseman while prado can play very well at several positions. Kelly Johnson is a bum and fits in great with this subpar team
By Steve from OH
September 8, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this
Joining the conversation about bunting….I found a run-expectation table (albeit from 2003) and found that a team can expect 1.5384 runs with runners on 1st and 2nd with no outs, and can expect 1.4105 runs with runners on 2nd and 3rd with one out (i.e. a succssful bunt in that spot). If the Nats had walked the next batter, giving us bases loaded and one out, we could expect to score 1.5250 runs.
My analysis of this? It’s a wash, slightly favoring not bunting. Both arguments are plausible, I guess, but again, it’s pretty much a wash, using the 2003 numbers. I’m not sure what the 2007 numbers were, but if anyone has them, I’d love to take a look at them.
By DAP
September 8, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this
brian are you aware of ibanez’s stats this year? he’s batting .306 (.884 OPS) with 23HR and 103 RBIs. this is on a team that ranks 25th in the majors in runs scored. which of our young players can we expect to do that for us next year?
ibanez isnt THE answer next year, but hes a good fit, since he is a good offensive player, who is a veteran, and wont require a long contract, and block our younger players.
By flbravesgirl
September 8, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this
Yes, McFann, Mac & Chipper on the cover. There was a feature article about the 2 of them at the AllStar Game.
By Steve from OH
September 8, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this
And Bobby’s Cox, I’m not sure if Mac’s bunting is definitive proof that Cox has “lost control of his team.” Sometimes players just do stupid things sometimes. It happens. Facts are, Bobby has a team that can hit about four home runs a month, a bullpen containing guys like Elmer Dessens and Vladimir Nunez, and a starting rotation with James Parr in it, who really isn’t considered a prospect by many “prospect people.”
Not many managers could do much of anything with this squad. Sure, sometimes Bobby pulls a head-scratcher, like bringing in Boyer when we’re up six runs, but then again, maybe there is something going on behind the scenes that we don’t know about (like another reliever telling Bobby that his arm wasn’t up to pitching that day, or something like that). I’m generalizing here, so bear with me, but I think Bobby’s doing just fine with the misfits he’s got toeing the slab every night.
By Goodoleboy58
September 8, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this
McFann
Got to take in account the market Soto plays for. He’s going to get talked about when he’s hot and he’s going to get dogged on when things are going bad. Part of playing in a bigger market then what we have going right now.
By ncscoots
September 8, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this
i’ve never met so many people against bunting that the fans on this blog…EVER.
Now, THAT’S funny, LOL. Finding bunt-happy bloggers in this forum is easier than finding dirt in a field.
You suffer the same misapprehension of many here, in thinking that bunting is something to be for or against. I’m FOR bunting as a tactic, and AGAINST its too-frequently ill-timed use. How’s that?
By McFann Ô
September 8, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this
Thanks, flbravesgirl! That’s an article I would love to read.
Hmm…Now comes the hard part: Whose offer do I accept?!
By Original Jon
September 8, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this
Goodoleboy58 I saw that about Wagner as well, and that bothers me because now the Mets will probably throw as much money as possbile to sign Francisco Rodriguez after the season. If they get him, all teams will be in trouble if the Mets are leading the game into the 9th. Lets just hope the Angels re-sign him.
By flange1
September 8, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this
McFann,
Be a lady and accept BOTH offers!!!!
By bunting for president
September 8, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this
vote for me!
By Anders
September 8, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this
Efrim
I hear you on Morgan and Miller but let’s be honest here, what they said last night about Santana is dead on. He’s been excellent since the All Star break and he really answered the bell last night. Glavine did not last September.
I know DOB has to snarky and dismissive, seems to be his nature when he’s wrong. I’m guessing there would have been a little more Met’s talk on here including the blogmaster had the Mets lost last night. Call it a hunch.
By Steve from OH
September 8, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this
No, no, please let the Mets throw an exorbitant amount of money at a guy that will work only one inning a game, and maybe five innings a week. Please. It will keep them from upgrading more important spots.
By BRAVOSFAN
September 8, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this
I don´t think that the free agent list, will provide an upgrade for this team, go to the minor l. sistem, point the goods ones and let them play for another year there, DON´T TRADE ANYONE OF THE ROOKIES AGAIN, we learned the issue of been old, in these season.
Oh by the way, FIRED THE TRAINING STAFF.
By monty
September 8, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this
I guess the pressure of trying to win a bating title has finally worn Chipper down. Dude has lost his power stroke, which seemed effortless, and become a singles only hitter.
THis team just doesn’t know how to fight for victories. It seems mental. If it’s just physical and because of a lack of talent then what does that say about the state of the organization when you are 2-10 in extra inning games and 0 for your last what? 26 one run road losses? How do you correct the mental? If it’s talent you get better talent, but mental I believe begins with the coaching staff.
I don’t think personally, that BC is a terrible coach, but he may not be the type of coach that all these young guys need.
By McFann Ô
September 8, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this
Goodoleboy58 Got to take in account the market Soto plays for.
Oh yeah! And sometimes it bugs me that they only like to talk about the guys that are on good teams. Wonder what Grove’s numbers would be if he played for the Braves? (Heaven forbid that, though!)
But I’m really cool with them leaving McCann alone. I like the guy that doesn’t always have to have his face on everything.
I just got a kick out of them…“For a guy only 25 years old”…Haha!
Flange1—
Believe me, I’m tempted…; )
By John Kerry
September 8, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this
I was for bunting before I was against it.
By DAP
September 8, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this
Anders be patient. collapses take time.
By Anders
September 8, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this
Steve from Ohio
No, no, please let the Mets throw an exorbitant amount of money at a guy that will work only one inning a game, and maybe five innings a week. Please. It will keep them from upgrading more important spots.
I think the Yanks with Rivera and the Braves without a bonafide closer for most of their glory years both proved there is no more valuable position than closer in the post season.
BTW- That’s why I think the Mets can still get to the post season without Wagner but it will be tough to win there without him. I know, I know he wasn’t very good in the post season blah,blah, blah. You get the point.
By ncscoots
September 8, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this
Steve-OH, the run-expectation tables are a good thing, but, in the scenario under discussion, a single run is the more important issue. In some cases, I would bunt (yikes! take that, Bobby’s!) and play for the single (winning) run, since a big inning is not a necessary or even desired outcome. But the winning run was already in scoring position…no need to waste an out, or an opportunity to win.
Remember that run-expectation tables are not quite the same as scoring-probability tables. Close, but slightly different.
By Blaine Boyer
September 8, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this
I may be a big tube of goo, but Frenchy is a worthless, piece of s#@!. Leaving 8 men on base, if he was from any place other than Georgia, he would have been demoted to semi-pro ball…back in May. Has anyone tried to teach him to bunt, hit, etc.? Is he still watching motivational tapes of Matt Foley and Andruw Jones? And I thought I was the only Brave that had pictures of Bobby helping that sheep accross the fence. Boy, my arm is tired.
By Anders
September 8, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this
DAP
Anders be patient. collapses take time.
Yep, takes being in first place too. You remember first place -right?
By Bill
September 8, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this
BY: GUT THE FARM SYSTEM You are crazy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By McFanders
September 8, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this
I’m guessing there would have been a little more Met’s talk on here including the blogmaster had the Mets lost last night. Call it a hunch.
There she goes again! Anders makes a prediction that no one can ever prove false! Wow, how does she do it?
By BT
September 8, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this
Can’t remember, during the infamous at bat yesterday how many times did McCann show bunt?
If it was only once yes it was totally all McCann’s mental error. If more than once Bobby was just as much at fault. After the first weak stab the 3rd base coach or the mgr should have made it very clear that NO bunt was in order.
By Brian
September 8, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this
Anders- DOB doesn’t have to respond to anyone, especially a Mut fan who comes on here and spills his ignorance of baseball on people!! Dude, you gotta admit, THE SOUTH ROCKS!!!
By Goodoleboy58
September 8, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this
More Ibanez stats that you got to like:
Batting .303 against righties and .313 against lefties
Batting .285 at home and .326 away
.344 in Day games .288 at night
batted .396 in August with 7 HR and 31 RBI’s
Has 9 OF assists (10 last year, 11 before that)
Batting .339 with runners on and .429 with bases loaded.. to include 18 RBI’s in 14 AB’s this year with the bases loaded
And my favorite stat..
Man on 3rd less then 2 outs: .516, .512, .806, 1.319 34 RBI’s in 31 AB’s AND 0 strikeouts in this spot in 31 AB’s
By Brian
September 8, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this
The more I think about it the more I can see the Braves signing Ibanez. He is there type of player,under the radar type, and will probably be cheap. BRAVES= CHEAP,CHEAP,CHEAP!!!
By ncscoots
September 8, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this
Thanks, John Kerry, LOL. That for-against-bunting thing DID read a little weird when I saw it. :-) I’m most well put in my place, thank ya sir.
Enough with bunting, and its offensive place in the world. Next thing you know, Bobby’s will manage to make it Kelly Johnson’s fault, anyhow!
By Lew
September 8, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this
Anders-Believe me. If You, Metro Dude and Snipper didn’t come to this blog, the Mets would rarely ever be a topic of conversation. Y’all care about them, we don’t-win or lose. We’ve got more important issues right now that have nothing whatsoever to do with anyone or anything from New York.
Why exactly, should we care what the Mets are doing or not doing? If we make the necessary changes to our lineup this winter like we all hope we do, then whatever the Mets do or don’t do will not matter at all-just like it didn’t during our 14 year run. Do you actually think we paid attention to the Mets then? Except to laugh at their desperation, that is.
Chipper may want a row of seats from Shea. We couldn’t care less.
By flange1
September 8, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this
Anders,
I think you are correct that the Mets can still make the playoffs without Wagner but will struggle to go deep.
To me the whole NL East race is going to be about how deep into games Mets starters can go and how many runs they can put up on the board.
If the starters can go deep (7+innings) and/or the offense can score lots of runs, the Phillies will struggle to catch them.
While Lidge has been great at the end of games for the Phillies, they need their starters to give them some innings as well.
Other than the AL West, pretty interesting races in ALL of the divisions, huh?
By Anders
September 8, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this
Brian meet McFanders. McFanders this is Brian.
Now you two have a good time at Chuckie Cheese’s!
By McFanders
September 8, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this
I have a feeling that Anders’ next post will be about how tough life is as a Muts fan living on a Braves’ blog. Anders will probably hit on how all of you using logic to back up your arguments are just being mean because she roots for the Muts.
By Lew
September 8, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this
Anders-Your problem is that you attribute the Mets’ monumental collapse last season to Tom Glavine and fail to take into account that Wagner and Reyes sucked, too.
Now let’s look at the present. Wagner is gone and Reyes is 3 for 25 in his past six games with ZERO runs scored. Is history repeating itself even without Glavine? Could very well be. Uneasy lies the head that wears the crown.
Oh wait. You don’t HAVE a Crown in the past 22 years or so. Never mind.
By Lew
September 8, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this
A couple of weeks ago, when we were memorializing Skip, someone who requested a print also asked if I still had the notes from the Denizens that we included with the drawing when DOB presented it to Skip early this season.
I thought I had no remaining copies, but found most of them when going through a stack of papers. If whoever it was will contact me LewHartman@comcast.net, I’ll send you copies of what I have. MInus other’s email addresses, of course.
By John
September 8, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this
Hey DOB - you heard of Blitzen Trapper. Song call Furr is stellar.
By Lew
September 8, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this
Scoots-Are you serious? Everyone on the blog KNOWS it was Francoeur’s fault. If he weren’t having a terrible season, McCann would never have felt the need to bunt-ever.
By David O'Brien
September 8, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this
defense a wash??? K.J is not even an average secondbaseman while prado can play very well at several positiondeez
Deez, that’s entirely irrelevent to my point. I’m not talking about qualifications to be a utility player; Prado clearly is far more qualified for that duty than Johnson.
But what does defensive versatility have to do with picking a starting second baseman, unless you plan to use a couple of guys in the role and are moving them to other positions when they’re not at second base.
Otherwise, your point about defensively versatility is moot.
And by the way, Prado is average defensively at 2B, from what I’ve seen. Nothing more. And there’s nothing wrong with that, but that’s what he is. If he’s above average, it’s onl slightly. And Kelly is also no more than average defensively at 2B.
By braves70
September 8, 2008 5:21 PM | Link to this
Blaine Boyer,
Be a goo boy and go apply for job at Home Depot like Chuck James. After he mangles the window installation, you can relieve him and proceed in demolishing the entire house. Elmer Dessens should also be available with his destructive glue gun. You boys have fun now.
By N Nine
September 8, 2008 5:39 PM | Link to this
crazy comeback stories: Mark McGwire and Lance Armstrong! Guess if Favre can do it so can others!
By crap-wheelie
September 8, 2008 5:46 PM | Link to this
Looking at the Wild Card standings a minute ago. We are 20.5 games out of the Wild Card. That just sums up this godawful season.
By MGL
September 8, 2008 5:57 PM | Link to this
crap-wheelie - Yup, we have that big “E” beside that 20.5 also.
By Bobby's Cox
September 8, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this
scoots
I agree with a few things from you last posts.
One: That the John Kerry post was funny. It was
Two: The run scoring table. You’re right That table is from 2003 (steroid era) and doesn’t say anything about the probability of scoring 1 run. I bet if you break that table down, 1 run scores at a higher percentage with runners on 2nd/3rd with 1 out than with runners on 1st and 2nd with 0 out. Also, you’d have to exclude the situations from the 1st/2nd 0 out category where those runners were bunted over and then scored. If you do, then how many times does 1 run score without a bunt? I agree with that post of yours.
Third: I will say it was KJ’s fault. How did you know?
I’m kidding. I’ve said it numerous times this year, I like KJ. He’s just a bad fit on this team. Example: Someone posted Ibanez’s numbers in the 2nd half. DOB confirmed by saying he thought the Braves shoul’ve looked at Ibanez because he’d bridge the gap until the outfielder prospects were ready. However, if the Braves got Ibanez, how many lefties would they have had in the lineup? Having a left handed 2nd baseman just doesn’t fit on this team with so many other left handed prospects and players & continue reading before you copy & paste for your rebuttle.
My other arguments this year were that KJ was inconsistent. If you look at the team’s offensive inconsistencies last year & how that carried over to the beginning of this year, then why have an inconsistent 2nd baseman? It just didn’t make sense. Could you imagine the lineup with Ibanez and Prado last month and this month? Having KJ around wouldn’t allow that…it limits the braves to finding a RH outfielder only.
My other argument against KJ was that Prado never got a fair shake. He beat out KJ in 2 springs and had a montrous year last year in AAA. True kJ had better minor league numbers, but sometimes players aren’t the same in the minors as they are in the majors. KJ had 2 good months last year. He’s had 2 good months this year. He had a terrible 2005 year. He missed 2006 with TJ. He had to learn a new position, yet he still won the job? The overall numbers look good, but following him day to day you see those numbers aren’t sufficient for team success. You go with the more consistent hitter.
KJ is good trade bait. At least 2 teams that I see need 2nd basemen next year: the Indians and the Dodgers. You like Aaron Laffy? I think he could be next year’s JJ.
By Brian
September 8, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this
Anders- Girl, you sound like a typical Mut loving, baseball illeterate, SEWER RAT!! YOU’RE A LOSER!!!!! How’s the pollution up there?
By Bobby's Cox
September 8, 2008 6:07 PM | Link to this
DOB
You say Prado is an average fielder. Keep in mind he had a .995 fielding PCT in Richmond last year. While I agree his defense has been average, I also believe his defensive potential is analogous to you and others commemorating KJ’s power potential.
So, you have a player with defensive potential (assuming he stops moving around the diamond cuz he’s been a second baseman his whole life), that also has gap power (doubles), finds his way on base, doesn’t give up outs, what’s not to like?
Did you like Marcus Giles steroid filled 2003-2005 seasons? I think Prado can match those (except for the 21 HR in 2003), consistently over his career. That’s a lot of doubles, hits, and runs with good OBP, SLG,and an ample amount of SB. But, he’d probably put up more RBI numbers than Giles did, cuz he seems to hit well with RISP.
By Bring Me the Head of Francisco Cabrera
September 8, 2008 6:07 PM | Link to this
Hey, DOB, I’d like to ask a favor.
I’m going to be in Pittsburgh this weekend to watch my Pirates take a couple beatings (probably) from the Cardinals.
I was wondering if there any dining establishments in the vicinity of PNC Park that you’d recommend highly, as well as any good record stores?
September in Pittsburgh is a good recipe for at least one rainout, so any recommendations you have could salvage what otherwise might be a wasted day. Thanks!
By Steve from OH
September 8, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this
Scoots, Bobby’s Cox: I was just trying to add a little bit to the discussion. I tried to find a scoring probability table (perhaps Shaun knows where to find one?), but couldn’t so I used the run-expectation table. And I did mention in my post that it was from ‘03, implying that it wasn’t perfect. But thanks for pointing that out scoots, as it appears I was a bit confused on the issue. You learn something new every day….
I still think it’s a really close call, to bunt or not to bunt. Hard to fault the manager either way, because no matter what he chooses the players still have to execute to get the run in.
By Bobby's Cox
September 8, 2008 6:17 PM | Link to this
Lew
Great post at 5:00 pm.
I think you forgot to mention that Pedro is assuming the role glavine played last year for the mets.
His line for his first start in September isn’t pretty:
4 IP, 7 H, 6 ER, 1 BB, 1 K
By Steve from OH
September 8, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this
Bobby’s Cox, fielding % is a poor way to evaluate a fielder. I’m really not comfortable at all with defensive stats in general (although Keith Law said in a chat a while back that front offices have access to far more in-depth fielding statisics than any random internet blogger; so I’ll trust their decision/what they say any day). In any case, I’ll take DOB’s word for it (and a lot of scouting reports that state that Prado lacks speed and range, which wouldn’t hurt is fielding %, not getting to balls).
By BA
September 8, 2008 6:28 PM | Link to this
Funny, I never see ANY “Mets talk” on the ‘ole DOB/MIB/BBQ/Braves blog, whether the gutless Mutts win or lose. I’ve got a “hunch” why that is, too-
Aside from about three or four “special” Mutts fans (that NEVER have the guts to show up after their team loses), nobody here cares what the Mutts do. IF they manage to thwart their annual choke job in September, it’s not like that team of has-beens could beat ANY of the other NL playoff teams in a series. So why WOULD there be any discussion here on this award-winning blog of an irrelevant Mutts team? Who cares?
I’d rather look back on the many great moments in Mutts history, like when David Cone employed a unique and illegal way to warm up in the bullpen (in front of some unsupecting former fans), or when Mike Piazza came out. Or what about when the oft injured legend Pedro was caught on tape torturing animals last winter? Seems like some of those “hard-hitting” NY reporters we always hear about would be more willing to jump on that.
By Lew
September 8, 2008 6:35 PM | Link to this
Bobby’s Cox-Dude, are they still pitching Pedro? Thought he disintegrated or something.
By Fantasy Nut Geek
September 8, 2008 6:43 PM | Link to this
If Kelly Johnson is so great, then how come no one owns him in my 12 team, highly competitive fantasy keeper league?
That’s the question.
Believe it or not, Prado is owned. The guy that owns him checks lineups an hour before start times to see if he’s playing. He’s in 1st place and is a Yankee fan, not a Braves fan. He says he looks for consistency in players. I asked him and he said Prado will give him more per game consistently than Johnson, that Johnson’s runs the risk of giving you an 0-for game, and Prado rarely gives him an 0-for game….I.e. Prado will fill up more stat categories R, RBI, 2B, AVG, OBP day-to-day… Johnson will put them up all at once.
Johnson’s been sitting on the FA list all year. Not 1 person picked him up. He is however owned in 84% of ESPN fantasy leagues to Prado’s 4%. We play in a Yahoo’s league head-to-head. Maybe the ESPN leagues are rotisserie, in which case, it would be better to own Johnson, as he’ll put up more numbers over time (more playing time).
By Harrison Dangler
September 8, 2008 6:51 PM | Link to this
Anal Warts Anders How’s that closer situation working for the Muts? Let the choking begin.
By Bobby's Cox
September 8, 2008 6:59 PM | Link to this
Steve from OH
That’s true. Shaun posted here this year about the Cardinals GM (i think it was GM - but anyway, someone who works for the cardinals), who created sophisticated software to analyze defense and you’re right, range & other factors were factors in that program.
The cardinals signed that man (Dude, why can’t i remember the name?), to make the software (patented) unavailable to other teams. The cardinals are 3rd in defense this year. They’re normally in the top half in terms of defense in the majors (minus last year).
I’ll have to slightly disagree with your post by saying Prado’s range is greater than KJ’s. You didn’t mention that, but I’d think you’d agree.
By Steve from OH
September 8, 2008 7:01 PM | Link to this
Fantasy Nut Geek:
Because Prado is having a fantastic, over-his-head three months? Hard not to post those kinds of numbers with a .382 BABIP (a full 60 points above his 2006-07 major and minor league average, and still 30 points above his career average with the .382 factored in).
By Bobby's Cox
September 8, 2008 7:03 PM | Link to this
Lew
Lol….He could have…i mean i didn’t see him pitch…i only heard about it.
By Steve from OH
September 8, 2008 7:12 PM | Link to this
Bobby’s, I dunno. Neither of them will be great defensive second basemen, so trying to decide who is better (and marginally so) seems to be kind of a moot point if you think someone will be better offensively than the other. I will say that Prado has better hands than KJ, but I do think that KJ is faster (I don’t think you’ll disagree w/ me on that) so I’d say their ranges are probably equal.
I’d stop worrying so much about the D and evaluate the offense more, because I think that’s more important, at this juncture. But suffice to say, I will have faith in whatever the front office decides to do this offseason. Lots of arguments to be made both ways, and most of them are pretty good arguments.
By Bobby's Cox
September 8, 2008 7:17 PM | Link to this
What are the chances of the Braves targeting Nelson Cruz this offseason?
Power hitting Right-handed OF from from Texas. Check out his ridiculous minor league stats this year
He looks like Abe Lincoln and is a born again prospect, much like Josh Hamilton was last year.
In 13 games with Texas, he’s hitting .326/.404/.609 with 3 HR, 9 RBI, and 3 SB, but 9K’s.
By Wayne
September 8, 2008 7:23 PM | Link to this
Fantasy baseball. That’s kinda like playing guitar hero.
Now, I am convinced that Prado is the best, because one of the owners in some fantasy leagues has chosen him over KJ.
Do we really want to talk about fantasy baseball here?
By Wayne
September 8, 2008 7:28 PM | Link to this
Bobby’s Cox: Does anybody know why Cruz hasn’t gotten a decent chance at the big show? Could he be one of those AAAA sluggers?
If he comes cheap, I would love to see the Braves take a flier on him.
By JC FROM UT
September 8, 2008 7:28 PM | Link to this
Who ever said KJ should be dealt to Cleveland: I would agree with you but I don’t think Cleveland will give up Laffey. Thay may give up Anthony Reyes.Th Cardinals would probably like KJ but they have nothing that interests me except Ryan Ludwig and I doubt that would happen.If Arizona does not re-sign Hudson maybe thay would give up Micah Owings. San Diego may want him in a part of a blockbuster including Peavy.
By Bobby's Cox
September 8, 2008 7:31 PM | Link to this
Steve from OH
Agreed. 2nd base is a strong position for the Braves and the front office has leverage there to do what they wish.
I’ve mentioned Aaron Laffey a few times as a potential trade guy, but I think i’m going to retract those statements now. Cleveland just shut him down for the year with elbow inflammation. That’s the last thing this team needs.
In response to your response to the Stat Geek about Prado…the kid was young in those seasons with limited AB. I truly believe what Prado’s done this year is no fluke. I’ve been expecting it since I saw him play in 2006. Even Chipper, one of his advocates according to Mark Bowman, says Prado is a top tier hitter. You’re right, we should go by hitting alone in deciding between the 2. Many here want the power potential. I’m growing ever impatient with that power which has come in just spurts from KJ. I’d go for the more consistent RH bat at this point for this overly LH, inconsistent lineup.
Here’s another topic for debate: How long do you wait for a players potential to translate into results?
Everyone here talks about KJ’s, but no one talks about Prado’s and he’s a year younger. If KJ’s consistency AND power potential doesn’t come next year, I’m afraid it never will.
By Wayne
September 8, 2008 7:41 PM | Link to this
I was just checking out Andruw’s stat sheet for this season. I didn’t realize he hadn’t played in a month.
Sad, actually, how far he fell in two years time.
Did he get old fast? Was this a steroids/HGH drop? What?
He supposedly says his knee is still bothering him.
Good last non-move by John Schuerholz.
By Bobby's Cox
September 8, 2008 7:41 PM | Link to this
wayne
Here’s an article on cruz you may find interesting.
Here’s another article
You’re right, he could be a 4-A player. I actually typed that in my last post before deleting it. But what the braves looking for, and with the Rangers trying to decide what to do with him (he’s out of options), it could make for possible transaction and allow the braves to sign a more expensive FA pitcher this offseason.
By Brian
September 8, 2008 7:41 PM | Link to this
There should be a rule on here about excessive stat blogging. You obviously have more of an argument going by stats from a position player than a pitcher because pitchers stats can be deceiving because of run support,etc. If that confused anybody, well good! Now you know how I feel!
By Steve from OH
September 8, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this
Bobby’s, those numbers I posted were cumulative numbers, i.e. the 2006 numbers included all of his at-bats, including minor league at-bats. But again, you makes good points as always. Although I think Kelly will consistently be a higher OBP guy than Martin, which makes his “steaky” power less of an issue.
By Fantasy Nut Geek
September 8, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this
You can put down my fantasy league. I’m telling you, it’s top tier. I don’t expect you to read too much into the post. Obviously, fantasy baseball and the real thing are totally separate.
But, all I am noting is that one player looks to be more consistent with his bat this early in his career, and one player has not based on 2-year ML splits. I would expect slumps to drive Major League managers just as Nuts as it does head-to-head Fantasy Managers.
That’s all.
By Run, Heap, Run
September 8, 2008 7:58 PM | Link to this
Hey - got my September Chop Talk today, nice cover tribute to Skip.
McFann I won’t be offended if you dont take my offer lol
DOB serious question - do you know when Chipper is going to be in the GQ interview you mentioned a while back? I gotta see this…
By BravesFanInRockies
September 8, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this
If Cruz hunkered down and learned patience at age 28, then he would absolutely be worth pursuing in the offseason.
Will he be available? The Rangers have made noises about re-signing Milton Bradley.
So Cruz might be gettable.
By David O'Brien
September 8, 2008 8:00 PM | Link to this
Fantasy Nut Geek, I couldn’t possible care less who owns what in yours or any fantasy league, in any sport, at any time, under any circumstances. Period.
By David O'Brien
September 8, 2008 8:03 PM | Link to this
Bring Me The Head: I don’t know of any record stores in Pittsburgh (I’m sure there are some, but I know of none near downtown, where I stay when there), but you must go chow at Primanti Bros., which is one of the best sandwich places anywhere. There are several in the area, but there’s one right downtown (also a couple in the ballpark, but limited menu; still better than almost any other ballpark fare you’ll find).
By Shaun
September 8, 2008 8:03 PM | Link to this
Bobby’s Cox, Nelson Cruz has certainly been impressive but also the PCL—where he’s played most of his games—has long been known as a hitter-friendly league.
Consider this: Cruz played for the Oklahoma RedHawks this season. They’ve hit .272/.348/.446. Those number look quite impressive yet they rank 8th/9th/9th in the 16-team league.
For further evidence, see Terry Tiffee. Tiffee is a journeyman playing for Las Vegas and he’s hitting .378/.416/.561. His career minor league numbers: .296/.336/.436.
Cruz is younger and his career minor league numbers are much more impressive than Tiffee’s ( .298/.367/.539). Although I would add that Cruz has played parts of four seasons in the PCL. Cruz probably deserves a shot to play in the majors on at least a semi-regular basis. But I wouldn’t bet on him putting up great numbers in the majors. He still is only a .240/.294/.406 hitter in 529 major league plate appearances.
By Bobby's Cox
September 8, 2008 8:15 PM | Link to this
Steve,
So do you with your points. Always fun, respectable arguments….
Sorry I didn’t catch the cumulative numbers the first time, but my stance stays the same: Prado was younger then and has progressed thanks in part to spending an extra year in AAA much to my dismay (yes, I’m admitting it actually helped him hit to RF). It’s like using KJ’s 2005 numbers against him (which i sometimes do).
Kelly may have higher OBP potential as well, but he doesn’t this year. I think KJ will have a higher K rate than Prado, especially in crucial situations. It’s a give-and-take argument, and I think that’s why it comes up so often on here, sometimes on days when I’m only reading.
Gotta love baseball talk, eh?
It’s been fun, slow day at the office.
Talk to you all later.
By Fantasy Nut Geek
September 8, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this
David O’Brien:
You are one great mind. You don’t care? All I’m doing, and all fantasy baseball is, is a crunching of numbers. I know you don’t care, you’re a beat writer. All you care about is getting info from the team to write in the AJC so you can buy your CD’s.
Again, just pointing out tendencies that could be important in the real world, based on stat-crunching. Don’t tell me you don’t crunch numbers. That’s what you do in your blogs. And, don’t tell me Johnson’s inconsistency at the plate is not a problem. It’s been problem for the Braves, and it’s a problem for Johnson’s job security.
Anyways,
Stay Classy Mr. O’Brien. Or, sarcastic or something.
By Bring Me the Head of Francisco Cabrera
September 8, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the tip about Primanti Bros., Dave. I’ll be sure to check it out. And if I stumble across any great Pittsburgh record stores, I’ll let you know.
By ncscoots
September 8, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this
Steve-OH, I have a link (somewhere) on some more recent run-expectation tables, and I’ll try to get that up for you. Just have to nudge my memory a little. But the traits for the offensive situations hold from your 03 table, in any event. Truth is truth.
Bobby’s, way to get that KJ action in there, buddy! I’m not even going back into some KJ-Prado thread, though, you can just forget that puppy.
Lew, thanks for the point-out at 5:17…can’t imagine what I was thinking, LOL.
Was that the original flbravesgirl further up the blog? If so, good deal to see some of the long-timers making a return. I’d love to see some more of that, but, hey, that’s just me.
By bruce
September 8, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this
McFann Brian is also on cover of May 2008 and August 2006 and Nov 2005 (looking at the ad in Sept for back issues) I probably have them all and you can have them too if you do not have them already.
By Jeff R
September 8, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this
Galvaston is a great Glenn Campbell song.
Primanti Bros is a great place to chow. The sandwiches date back to the Depression (why that matters, I don’t know). But these super-sized sandwiches were designed to be meals between two slices of bread, and for truckers, who had to keep one hand on the wheel.
By wiki
September 8, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this
Santana the difference for Mets???? More hot air from Joe Morgan….
143 games into 2007: 82-61 (1st by 6 games)
143 games into 2008: 80-63 (1st by 2 games)
By the way, the Twins are 78-65 in ‘08 compared to 70-73 after 143 games in ‘07.
So the Mets are two games worse and the Twins are eight games better…..
….what a difference!
By McFann Ô
September 8, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this
Thanks, Run, Heap, Run! You’re a real lifesaver! ; )
Bruce—
Thank you very much! I just need an e-mail address that I cann use to contact you about where to send the magazines.
And if you’d like the issues back when I’m through reading them, please let me know, and I’ll be happy to return them to you.
I apologize if I don’t get back to you tonight.
Thanks, again!
By Savannah Guy
September 8, 2008 10:11 PM | Link to this
So, what’s all the fuss about buntings?
Bunch of painted bird haters.
By BossLady
September 8, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this
In the large city of New York with several newspapers, is there not a decent blog for their fans?
I guess they are too mean to blog with each other, probably get everything deleted with the rude, crude and angry exchanges.
To Southerners that is so sad.
By Steve from OH
September 8, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this
Bosslady, this is sad to Northerners, too.
By Brian
September 8, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this
BOSSLADY- You don’t have to look far to find New York media- there all over ESPN! Buster Olney, P Gammons(Boston)on and on. They can’t stand the Braves and it’s very obvious. It really p** me off when they’d show highlights of the Braves and mock Skip Carey almost every time.
By caballo muerto
September 8, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this
McFann, just be smart about who you give personal information to. That means don’t give it to ANYONE you “meet” on the internet.
There are a lot of pedophiles out there. I know you’re bright, but be safe.
(And I’m not calling anyone here a pedophile.)
By uga-brave
September 8, 2008 10:51 PM | Link to this
to say that espn, peter gammons, and buster onley hate the braves is without trying to be rude, ignorant.
as a baseball fan i find peter gammons to be without a peer and i think onley is his heir apparent.
By DAP
September 8, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this
mcfann from awhile ago: it IS a waste for mccann to bunt, even if he gets it down, because he is such a good hitter. ever see chipper bunt? arod? manny? not that mccann is as good as these guys, but there is a real good chance those guys-and brian- will get a hit, maybe even an extra base hit, that you dont bunt with a player like that, and then depend on lesser hitters. you use lesser hitters to bunt, and then a guy like brian to get them in.
By THB
September 8, 2008 11:03 PM | Link to this
Noticed today that Derek Lowe has been changed to a type A free agent. That’s probably better news for the Braves because it might scare some teams away because of the draft pick and age (He’s not that old), but the Braves won’t give up a first round pick. They’ll give a supplemental pick.
Personally, I’d like to see us go for Magglio Ordonez. They’re slashing payroll, so maybe we give up some solid prospect or two along with Reyes or Morton. We could eat some of the salary, like pay 10 million of it. Then we could sign Lowe and hopefully trade for a young pitcher like Jaime Garcia of the Cardinals. Reminds me of Jurrjens at his stage. Not sure we’re getting an ace. Maybe an AJ Burnett. We could let Schafer battle with Anerson and Blanco for CF. Let Campillo and Morton/Reyes/Hanson battle out the last two spots. We’ll find out a lot about the team next year
Anderson/Schafer/Blanco, Escobar, Chipper, Magglio, Mac, KJ, Kotchman, Frenchy sounds like a decent lineup.
By David O'Brien
September 8, 2008 11:04 PM | Link to this
Brian, they were not “mocking” Skip Caray, they were paying homage to him, just as they do Vin, Harry Calas and a few other legendary broadcasters. Or have you never heard them do Harry Calas on a Phillies highlight? You think they’re “mocking” all those guys? Give me a break.
By Run, Heap, Run
September 8, 2008 11:06 PM | Link to this
caballo, I know that McFann knows that I’m female too so that’s why I offered because I thought she might feel more comfortable giving the info to me, plus I don’t live in GA so no worries about me showing up at her door - lol
She’s a smart girl tho, she can have the magazines mailed to “McFann” if she wants and to a different address than her own..I understand about being cautious online, however, I don’t think she has to worry about bruce on the braves blog.
By David O'Brien
September 8, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this
Fantasy Geek: I wasn’t being sarcastic whatsoever. I honestly do not care about whether anyone in your fantasy league owns Martin Prado or Kelly Johnson, because it has no relevance to this discussion of actual baseball. None. Zero. No sarcasm, just facts.
By Steve from OH
September 8, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this
Good news from the minor league front: Mississippi won their playoff game 5-4 in 10 innings. The M-Brave bullpen threw six scoreless after starter Deunte Heath was knocked out after four innings. Jordan Schafer was 3-5 with 2 2B, Kala Kaaihue was 2-5 with a HR, and JC Holt was 2-5 with a 2B. Stephen Marek left the game with an “apparent leg injury” after hurling 1.2 innings of scoreless work (1K, OBB).
Now the bad news: Myrtle Beach got absolutely hammered, 15-0 in game 1 of their playoff series. As you can tell by the score, no one did anything of worth, and many on the team pretty much sucked tonight. If you’d like more in-depth analysis than this, then go to their website and check the boxscore yourself.
By DAP
September 8, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this
THB im not sure if its true that detroit is slashing payrole. i read an article that insinuated they were trying to win in 2009, which doesnt mean they wont trade mags, but i think it would make is less likley.
i think youve got the right idea, though. bolster this offense, get solid pitching, and we have a chance. a pitching staff full of good #3 pitchers might be as good as a 1 2 3 4 5 over the course of a long season.
By Brian
September 8, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this
DOB- Well, then I guess I’m just a dumb ole’ country boy that gets offended to easy.
By DAP
September 8, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this
steve from OH check them myself? why would i do that when i have you? :-) thanx for the updates.
By flbravesgirl
September 8, 2008 11:24 PM | Link to this
McFann, you probably already read the article on the Braves MLB site.
Yeah, Scoots, it’s me, Red Velvet cake and all. I won’t bore y’all with the long & convoluted story of why I left but I no longer see any point in staying away. Thanks for remembering!
By uga-brave
September 8, 2008 11:30 PM | Link to this
two personal fouls on deangelo hall in the first half. shocker.
By Brian
September 8, 2008 11:45 PM | Link to this
I read some articles on the Tigers and it is hard to figure if they’ll even consider trading Mags. He’d be awesome behind Chip,though! By the way I’m not prejediced against the north at all(my girlfriend is from there),just don’t respect there fans and some the media.
By David O'Brien
September 8, 2008 11:50 PM | Link to this
flbravesgirl, welcome back. Didn’t know if some one had absconded with your screen name. Good to know it’s the real thing.
By David O'Brien
September 8, 2008 11:54 PM | Link to this
Run, Heap, Run: You’re right about Bruce. I met him at RFK Stadium. Good dude.
By rainman
September 8, 2008 11:55 PM | Link to this
alright here it is. the braves left fielder and cleanup hitter is. Barry u.s. Bonds. We get him cheap, bobby loves the guy and he has something to prove. We then get C.C with since we didnt have to break the bank on bonds. Bonds plays left next year then heyward is up in 2010. Also my pick for center is jordan.
By flbravesgirl
September 9, 2008 12:05 AM | Link to this
Thanks, DOB. I’m sort of amazed that anyone would even remember my screen name.
By Wayne
September 9, 2008 1:28 AM | Link to this
rainman: I can see Barry trying to roam left field now….. Would they let him use a golf cart?
I hope you were being sarcastic. Barry could probably still be productive with the bat, but to put him in left field??? Also, he would miss more games than Chipper.
I would rather go for a platoon of Diaz and Jones/Blanco before signing BB.
By keylargo
September 9, 2008 4:11 AM | Link to this
The blog is dead but I’m not. 50 mph winds gusting higher. Torrential rain coming down. Still have power but probably not all night. Like a summer thunderstorm on steroids. Thankfully we’re only catching the outer bands of Ike.
By Moby Grape
September 9, 2008 5:21 AM | Link to this
you bunt to move the winning run 90 feet away that’s why.
maybe it’s an east coast west coast thing. i’ve never met so many people against bunting that the fans on this blog…EVERBobbysCox
and for good reason. giving up an out is almost always wrong. There is a reason that they say if they’re gonna give you an out-take it.
The runner was already in scoring position and NOBODY on this team bunts worth a damn in a sacrifice situation. What an absolute waste of an at bat that would have been-just like it was. The name of the game in successful baseball is not making outs.
By Moby Grape
September 9, 2008 5:42 AM | Link to this
Joining the conversation about bunting….I found a run-expectation table (albeit from 2003) and found that a team can expect 1.5384 runs with runners on 1st and 2nd with no outs, and can expect 1.4105 runs with runners on 2nd and 3rd with one out (i.e. a succssful bunt in that spot). If the Nats had walked the next batter, giving us bases loaded and one out, we could expect to score 1.5250 runsSteveOh
Yeah all the run expectation studies all the way back to the first on in the 50,s which was done real-time for two seasons show it to be a wash at very best and usually a negative strategy even though it seems like it should be easier to score. Sometimes under the right circumstances when all you need is one run it can be ok strategy, but just like in anything else baseball related you never know when it will work and when it won’t. Anybody who thinks it’s a sure thing or way better odds is pretty unaware of the realities of the situation.Especially with this team. Nobody bunts well and it’s not like they have done all that good a job getting guys home from third all season either. Hind-sighters tend to think the game is much simpler than it is and often focus on one player/manager or one event as for sure crucial, when that is very very seldom the real situation. Even a successful bunt in that situation guaranties nothing since subsequent tactics and events would probably be different.. That kind of thinking is simplistic at best and foolish & detrimental at worst.
By Moby Grape
September 9, 2008 5:53 AM | Link to this
Batting .303 against righties and .313 against leftiesGoodOleBoy58
his career stats against lefties .268/.323.413
against righties .294/.356/..499
he definitely hits mucvh better against righties across the board. better average and way better power. Not saying that we couldn’t use him but that stat you posted was misleading
By Moby Grape
September 9, 2008 6:09 AM | Link to this
If Arizona does not re-sign Hudson maybe thay would give up Micah Owings. JC Utah
I would certainly want something more than Owings back for JK.
By ncscoots
September 9, 2008 6:19 AM | Link to this
Thanks, DOB. I’m sort of amazed that anyone would even remember my screen name.
FBG, shouldn’t have made all those good posts from your time here before, LOL. Hey, don’t care why you were gone, just glad to see you back. Now, if I could get a Grinch sighting (and a few others), I might just light up a Cohiba and pour myself a cocktail. And have a slice of Red Velvet cake, to boot.
By Moby Grape
September 9, 2008 6:46 AM | Link to this
Personally, I’d like to see us go for Magglio Ordonez. They’re slashing payroll, so maybe we give up some solid prospect or two along with Reyes or Morton.THB
why do posters on this board say things like this? So what if they are slashing payroll, what does that have to do with what they will get for him. It might make it easier to put him on the market, but there are plenty of teams out there that will bid for a guy with a career .312 BA. and I bet several will offer more than reyez or Morton and a prospect, unless that prospect is Heyward or Hanson. I like Mags a lot but at 35 I’m not sure I wanna trade away what it would likely take to outbid other teams regardless if the Tigers are cutting payroll.
By Moby Grape
September 9, 2008 6:59 AM | Link to this
. Thankfully we’re only catching the outer bands of Ike.Keylargo
good for y’all. looks like we are not gonna get even that unless he makes a mighty turn north. Poor ol’ Texas/Louisiana coast is really having a rough time of it the last few years though. Charlie was enough for me, never want to live through another direct hit. We are still rebuilding in spots and it wasn’t even a very wide storm. I love the Keys but the Fl straits are kinda tough livin’ at times better just to visit regularly. IMO
By Couch Tater
September 9, 2008 7:33 AM | Link to this
keylargo 50 mph winds gusting higher. Torrential rains coming down…
Hey key, just go play golf and prepare for the British Open. Seriously, hope everything holds together.
By bruce
September 9, 2008 8:39 AM | Link to this
McFann I do not want to cause you any concern… I will gladly send the CTs to a third party… maybe Lew or David O’Brien or your church c/o McFann or to RHRun… whatever is best for you… I was not thinking about getting them back… if you want to e-mail, use bruce.kemp.1@spoofmail.com (mess up e-mail address finders in search engines) and then @gmail dot com
By Metropolitan Man
September 9, 2008 8:40 AM | Link to this
Good Morning braves blog. I see some of the super loyal braves fans are taking their swipes at my favorite team again. Who cares? I do. Not that it matters much at this time of the year but hey I still love to read this ole’ blog. I dont have to post much because the season is not over and you guys are destroying each other and it makes for a great read. Even though there is nothing but confidence that Manuel and the METS will prevail this time, knowing that we almost have an identical record with the Brew Crew tells me there could be room for the METS and philthies to make it, wouldnt that set this blog on fire. Anyway because of last year I dont want to put my foot in my mouth, but hey the METS are playing way better than September 07’. No Wagner anymore, no El Duque, no Chucrh for most of the season, no Castillo for most of the season, an uneffective Pedro, a downed Castro, no Pagan off the bench, and now Maine is down. If this isnt resiliency then I dont know what is. There is no comparing the METS season to the braves season, your injuries to the old guys did you in and the young guys in that once so precious farm is not MLB ready (sound familiar). So blog on and bash the METS, in a month or so you’ll be bashing them more for being the most untalented WS champs ever. Oh yea, they ARE making the playoffs this year.
METS 22-11 since Wagner went down and Ayala is 5 for 6 in save opportunities with the Rays closer of last year on the way from the minors for more help. Not the best options but they are solid and can get the job done. With the Cubs Zambrano and Harden feeling arm problems, the Dodgers and D-backs are jokes and the Brew Crew needs a healthy Sheets to compliment CC so its starting to look good in METS land.
LETS GO METS!!!
By Bring Me the Head of Francisco Cabrera
September 9, 2008 9:00 AM | Link to this
The Cards were “jokes” in 2006, too, but I seem to recall them manhandling the Mets in the postseason.
By McFann Ô
September 9, 2008 9:13 AM | Link to this
caballo, Run, Heap, Run—
Thanks for the lookout! No worries, my parents and I talked about it. They know Bruce is a good guy.
I have e-mailed the address to you, Bruce. If you don’t receive it soon, please let me know, and I’ll try it again. I’m not sure if my e-mail’s working or not.
Thank you, again!
By Metropolitan Man
September 9, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this
The Cards were “jokes” in 2006, too, but I seem to recall them manhandling the Mets in the postseason.
Yet the Cards went all the way and won the WS. Nothing wrong with losing to the eventual Champions. Now losing to a team that gets knocked out in the next round can just ruin your offseason.
By McFann Ô
September 9, 2008 9:22 AM | Link to this
flbravesgirl—
I don’t remember seeing that one on Braves.com…Well, they had an article about the ASG, but it didn’t say it was from ChopTalk. We shall see.
DAP—
I hear ya. But before that AB, Brian was 0 for his last 6 with RISP. Yeah, I think I would have liked to see him just swing it (not the way he did on that last pitch, though).
Again, Bobby didn’t call it. But I know what you mean: A waste of a good bat. Perhaps Brian doesn’t think highly enough of himself—-hey, he admitted it wasn’t smart, we all know it wasn’t smart, I think we cann move on to a new topic now.
By Lew
September 9, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this
Key Largo-Hope you don’t go Gone With The Wind, Dude. BTW-Thanks for the info the other day.
McFann-If you ever need a go between, I’d be happy to help, since I know how to contact you and have been vetted by Mom and Pop. You really should subscribe to Chop Talk. It’s not overly expensive (about $35 a year-less than $3 an issue) and they send you an autographed Braves’ Christmas Card if you order in the late fall. Got a Phil Niekro card two years back and an Alejandro Pena last year. Good deal for a good magazine. They have a complete farm system report in each issue, too.
MetroDude-Got a great picture of Carlos Beltran wearing “The Look” after his Wainwright close encounter in the NLCS-If you ever want to commission a portrait.
By McFann Ô
September 9, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this
Lew—
Thanks! I’ll keep that in mind.
Yeah, I really oughta subcribe, huh? Those things are five bucks at Barns and Noble!
By Metropolitan Man
September 9, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this
I’ll accept that poster of Beltran LEW only if you allow me to pay you for an awsome drawing of SHEA stadium in great detail. There is no rush on that if it is a yes, I would love to have a drawing becasue I think I have everything esle Shea related covered.
Getting back to Beltran, he has been haunted in his dreams by not swinging the bat in 06’. But just like him in 06’ and the METS of 07, some things will not repeat itself.
By DAP
September 9, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this
i was thinking about winning teams in the past, how they were put together, to see if the braves could do it in 2009. one of the team i thought of…dont get mad…was the 2006 mets.
the mets did it with mediocre starting pitcing, mediocare defense, and a very stron offense and bullpen. i think, given whats out there, the braves can build a team similar to that.
it will require some of our players to come back stronger than they did this year, jeff, kelly, yunel, mostly, and it will also require some guys coming back from injury to perform. moylan, soriano.
if the braves spent a little money on the bullpen, and got juan cruz or jeremy affeldt and resigned ohman, the bullpen would be very strong. gonzalez, soriano, moylan, ohman, cruz, boyer, carlyle.
if we also found a way to sign lowe AND garland, we could have lowe, jurjens, garland, campillo, morton. hampton is also a possibility, but i dont think glavine is.
we would still need to upgrade the offense, but we would have to hope that a few guys can make comebacks from this year. best case senerio, if jeff rebounds and we signed casey blake, to play left, and mike cameron to play center field, with shafer as #4, our outfield would be much improved. id say thats a 65 HR outfield.
anyways, no matter how you do it, that my recipe, since starting pitching is going to be hard to get. good offense, strong bullpen, decent starters.
By Lew
September 9, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this
MetroDude-Only if I have approval of which photo to use-not because of any abiding dislike of Shea, but because I’m a better judge of what would work well in a drawing or painting (and what my eye can cope with detail wise). I even did a Jeter portrait for Braveheart a while back (He gave it to his Dad). I’ve done portraits of people I couldn’t stand before, so I can deal with a Mets’ piece. Contact me LewHartma@comcast.net We can work out details.
Don’t have a Beltran poster-just a photo of “The Look. You could probably find it somewhere. A Denizen (Salty, I think) sent it to me. Wouldn’t have mattered if he had swung-No one could have hit that breaking ball. It was quite nasty.
By nolie
September 9, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this
Atlanta Braves Granted free agency: RHP Matt DeSalvo Recalled: RHP Matt DeSalvo, RHP Charlie Morton, LHP Jeff Ridgway, SS Brent Lillibridge, OF Jason Perry Added to 40-man roster: RHP Jorge Julio, RHP James Parr, C Corky Miller Optioned to Triple-A: RHP Charlie Morton
Removed from 40-man roster: RHP Matt DeSalvo, OF Jason Perry
Placed on 7-day DL: OF Jon Owings
Reinstated from DL: RHP Steven Figueroa, RHP Joe Johnson, RHP Rodrigo Lopez, RHP Stephen Marek, RHP Zach Schreiber, RHP Phil Stockman, LHP Eric Barrett, LHP Francisley Bueno, LHP Steve Evarts, LHP Chuck James, LHP Chad Rodgers, 3B Stephen Shults, SS Derrick Arnold, OF Joe Borchard
Reinstated from inactive list: RHP Michael Nix
By David O'Brien
September 9, 2008 10:50 AM | Link to this
We might get a rain delay or two in these next two games, folks. But we should get ‘em in, though.
Now, if we can just avoid a rain delay Sunday at Shea. 50 percent chance of rain that day in early forecast. Not good, considering I’ve got a flight out of LaGuardia that night….
Anyone see the new episode of Mad Men? One of the best. The last 5 minutes were about as good as TV acting gets.
I also liked the season premiere of Entourage. Not great, but very good. Setting up some good potential stuff to come.
By McFann Ô
September 9, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this
Rain delays? Yuck! Well, as long as they don’t hafta play any DHs…
And wouldn’t that be just dandy? A rain delay for the final Braves-Mets game at Shea…Hmm, maybe if it’s too bad, the Braves cann just come back on Sept. 29, and the season won’t end so soon!
By Shaun
September 9, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this
DAP, I’m not so sure the 2006 Mets were as mediocre as you think. The offense had the third-best slugging percentage in the league and they were a good baserunning team. All of their regulars posted above average OPS+ except Cliff Floyd.
They were 3rd in ERA, 3rd in fewest runs allowed, 2nd in strikeouts.
I think the biggest problem, if we are comparing the potential of the 2009 Braves to the 2006 Mets, is the Braves may not have the core players the 2006 Mets had.
The ‘06 Mets had three regulars over 30 percent better than league average according to OPS+. McCann will likely be that good and Chipper very well could but who knows if anyone else would do that. And if they don’t, they will at least need most of their other regulars to be significantly better than average.
By Brian
September 9, 2008 11:12 AM | Link to this
DOB- How about CSI Miami? My girlfriend has me hooked!
By DAP
September 9, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this
shaun c’mon, man. read the whole post. i didnt say the 2006 mets were mediocre. i said the starting pitching was mediocre, and it was.
thats my point. we can win with mediocre pitching (which i good news because thats probably what we will have) if we have agreat bullpen and offense, like the mets did. never did i say the mets as a whole were mediocre.
By Braveheart
September 9, 2008 11:27 AM | Link to this
How about CSI Miami?
Don’t let anyone bait you into taking a shot every time Caruso overacts or delivers an extremely cheesy line on that show. You’ll be comatose before the show ends.
By Metropolitan Man
September 9, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this
Thanks Lew, it will probably be an offseaon thing when I put that request in. For some reason I’m still enjoying the season. I trust your judgement and know the drawing will capture SHEA at its best. (No Chipper in the painting either please)
By THIS JUST IN
September 9, 2008 11:35 AM | Link to this
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3577469
By Thrillhouse44
September 9, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this
Re This Just In’s story: It’s not too surprising to me that Smoltz would be willing to pitch elsewhere if the Braves don’t make him a competitive offer. This is reassuring though: “”Make no mistake, I am absolutely, 100 percent committed to playing the rest of my career for the Atlanta Braves,” he added, according to the magazine. “But this can’t be my only option. & I may not be in the [Braves’] plans. It’s no given right, where I’ve spent 21 years here and [so] they owe me whatever I want.” “
By Braveheart
September 9, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3577469
John Smoltz would be willing to pitch somewhere other than Atlanta if his recovery from shoulder surgery is a success and a return to the Braves doesn’t work out, according to Atlanta Magazine.
That possibility came up as Smoltz was asked how his rehab was going, according to the magazine.
My shoulder is as bad as people told me it was going to be,” he said, according to the magazine. “Based on that gauge, it’s outstanding. I can say this without reservation — I’d have two more Tommy John [elbow surgeries] before I’d have another shoulder operation. It’s a nasty deal … but I’ve worked my butt off and will work my butt off to see if I can pitch again.”
Then, according to the report, Smoltz offered up the possibility that he would be willing to leave Atlanta.
“I say this for the first time, without reservation, if I’m going to bust my butt and if I feel like I’m good enough and it doesn’t work out here, I will be pitching somewhere else,” he said, according to the magazine. “My dream scenario would be to pitch in the playoffs again, and that’s coming from a guy who’s been in 13 of them. To me, that’s what I’m about. So if the door gets closed here, it’ll have to be explored somewhere else.”
But Smoltz added that he would prefer to end his career in Atlanta, where he has pitched for 20 seasons, winning 210 games and saving 154 more as a closer.
“Make no mistake, I am absolutely, 100 percent committed to playing the rest of my career for the Atlanta Braves,” he added, according to the magazine. “But this can’t be my only option. & I may not be in the [Braves’] plans. It’s no given right, where I’ve spent 21 years here and [so] they owe me whatever I want.”
Smoltz has an option year for 2009 that won’t automatically taker effect because he didn’t throw 200 innings this season, according to the report.
By Metropolitan Man
September 9, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this
Smoltz could be a set up man for NY after they find a reliable closer. Let him cash in on the Northern money like Glavine did and then return home and wait for the HOF.
By DAP
September 9, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this
this just in some good quotes from smoltz. but, everyone knows, that if he works his butt off and is going to be able to pitch, he WILL pitch for atlanta. they will make it happen.
By richbrave
September 9, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this
MET MAN err-r “JOKER”:
Nice to see by your own omission request an admission that you have had enough of our “DARK KNIGHT.”
By DAP
September 9, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this
also, on the smoltz story, i think its clear that what smoltz is saying is that if he puts in all the work to come back from this surgury, hes not gonna waste it. he will pitch somewhere. also, its a pretty humble position to take, to say that its no given right for him to stay with the braves.
By McFann Ô
September 9, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this
MetMan I trust your judgement and know the drawing will capture SHEA at its best. (No Chipper in the painting either please)
Well, what do you want: Shea at it’s best, or no Chipper? Can’t have one without the other, right?
; )
Dang…I can’t picture Smoltz with somebody else…that’d just be weird.
By Sarah Palin
September 9, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this
I was for bunting before I was against it.
By Metropolitan Man
September 9, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this
No more of that guy richbrave. Your Dark Night can go into the sunset but it looks as though he has no viable repalcement. The Joker lives on and will forever be a pain in the side of the so-called do-gooders!
By David O'Brien
September 9, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this
How is that any different than what Smoltz said right after surgery, when he said there was so many questions, including whether he’d be able to pitch again and where, since it wasn’t a given that he’d be back with Braves?
That said, I don’t see any way they don’t give him an offer. He’ll be rehabbing on their time all winter, and if he can pitch, they want him pitching for them. And honestly, who do you think is going to make him an offer when he probably won’t even know until the spring whether he can pitch at all, much less at a major league level and for an extended period?
By northbeach Scott
September 9, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this
Just saw the zombie spoof, FIDO, this weekend on netflix. Really funny and well done with the setting of 1950’s. Carrie Ann Moss and Billy Connolly were terffic.
By Wayne
September 9, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this
John Smoltz didn’t say anything surprising in his statements. He affirmed that he is an Atlanta Brave first, and foremost. He also stated that if Atlanta did not include him in their plans, and he was able to pitch, he would go elsewhere.
Can anyone imagine a scenario where Atlanta would not welcome John back if he were able to pitch? Not a chance.
By DAP
September 9, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this
metro man replace the dark night? why? hes only in the top 5 hitters in all of baseball. still one of the best.
By Saltywoody
September 9, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this
Make Smoltzie a player/coach. That way he has the proper platform to light fires under guys and call them out when they’re sucking, and then he can practice what he preaches by going into the game and shutting down the other team, thus lending his words more credence.
Plus, if he doesn’t pitch, you’ve still got him offering his wisdom to everyone. And seeing him in any other uni would be like Favre in a Jets uni…just doesn’t look right.
By N Nine
September 9, 2008 1:02 PM | Link to this
Wayne, I srrongly agree with Smoltz. Not a chance we would let him sign elsewhere. He might have 1 or just maybe 2 years left in him. Noone would want to even picture that senaerio.
Pujols is just a beast that is a rare product. We all now he’s had slight elbow issues all season. He’s been battling Chipper and made this interesting. He the league leader, while A-ROD owns the other league.
Pujols leaning toward elbow surgery, “Tommy John Surgury” marathon. “I’m thinking about it; I’m thinking really hard,” the first baseman told the local station. “There’s just a lot of things next year going on, the All-Star Game (in St. Louis), the (World Baseball) Classic, you know. But I think in the long run the sooner that I get it done the better it’s going to be for me because I’m going to heal quicker than if I wait two or three more years. But it needs to be done.” STLtoday
Hey! Chipper’s only one point away! Pujols and Chipper. one will win it! Berkman well behind needing 30 points quickly. Holliday disappered quickly.
I feel refreshed about not seeing the NATS. I don’t know what happened this year, but we can’t see that again next year. Can willie harris continue this run? Some will quicly point towards his BA sitting at a cool .247, which happens to be exactly his career BA.
Next month is the true start of critical times. We need to sign BIG. we cant just watch our divisional rivals continue to spend while we sit and watch. It’s the Braves turn.
By Braveheart
September 9, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this
I was for bunting before I was against it.
Sorry, dahling, you were for building a team going nowhere before you were against it.
By Bill
September 9, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this
By Moby Grape: Micah Owings has been traded to the Reds but can’t be announced until after the season.
By richbrave
September 9, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this
“JOKER”:
Gotham needs the “DARK KNIGHT” as your ultimate foil.
By THB
September 9, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this
Moby Grape-The reasons I posted that was because, a) we could pick up most of the salary, and b) since he is 35, he wouldn’t command what Matt Holliday would. I think an offer of Morton/Reyes, Flowers, and Locke would be a good starting point. They’d probably want Morton with his potential. I think he’s a possible option for LF next year and fills the power need without a long-term contract.
By Metropolitan Man
September 9, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this
Richbrave, I take it you loved the “Dark Knight” movie. Just like the Batman movies, every so often ther is a new actor to play the winged hero. Only problem in Gotham of the South is there is no hero to turn the reigns over to when the Dark Knight decides to hand up his cleats….er I mean tights while the Joker reeks havoc on a battered and bruised organization. ( I know you will find the symbolysm).
By David O'Brien
September 9, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this
So I hear there’s a NEW BLOG UP….
By Moby Grape
September 9, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this
I think an offer of Morton/Reyes, Flowers, and Locke would be a good starting point. They’d probably want Morton with his potential. I think he’s a possible option for LF next year and fills the power need without a long-term contract.THB
Ok, I admit that I was just whining about the idea that many post here that because another team is cutting payroll it means we could get something cheap, not necessarily true. The offer that you just mentioned might be a starting point though I have some fascination with Flowers that I don’t know if I want to lose for a 35 year old. I really like the discipline that he showed as a young player this season.