Braves

By JL

September 11, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this

Carroll, do the Braves still stay at the Grand Hyatt when they go to New York? I’ll be at all three games this weekend and I figured that is a pretty good way to meet some of the guys.

By Lew

September 11, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this

Nolie-From the last blog-Maverick was not one of my favorite westerns. I liked Yancy Derringer, Wagon Train and of course, the inimitable Sky King (and his Neice Penney)-watched that every Saturday morning along with Fury and Roy Rogers. Whoa Nellie.

By flange1

September 11, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this

Carroll,

Thanks for the new blog.

All of us should take a minute and reflect on the happenings of 9/11.

We are a lucky bunch to live in the US and have the ways and means to argue about baseball all day.

Sometimes we loose site of the most important things…

By VaBravesfan

September 11, 2008 12:20 PM | Link to this

Didn’t Paul Byrd sign a two year free agent deal the year he blew out his elbow? That probably doesn’t qualify as a “big” deal, though. BTW, anybody notice both starting pitchers last night were #61? Bet that’s not a common occurence.

By DAP

September 11, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this

if i remember right, braves-mets was the first baseball game played after the attacks, right? or maybe just the first in new york after the attacks.

i still remember where i was. in high school, in american history class…watching history happen. lets never forget the pain and the outrage we felt, and use it as motivation.

By richbrave

September 11, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this

nolie:

So Garner garnered an EMMY? Cool.

LEW:

Thanks for including in your list of knowledgable baseball fans. I think continuing to breathe has more to do with that accumulation than braincells. Stay warm.

9/11 REFLECTIONS:

I remember getting a call from HOUSTON from my eldest daughter’s high school friend between the first and second tower hits. I turned on the tube in time to catch the second strike. Shortly thereafter my eldest called from the Cerebral Palsy School in BROOKLYN. It was her first day on the job. I advised her to go to the store and buy the biggest amount of water she could carry. She later described the street scene near the end of the BROOKLYN BRIDGE. If you remember, the wind was carrying smoke and debris including clothing in that direction. I can only imagine. GOD be with us all. NEVER FORGET the fragility and the blessing that this life is and fight daily within yourself to see that you don’t take it for granted.

By Christy

September 11, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this

Hello all. Just caught up with yesterday’s blog and couldn’t help but post…

McFann - Love the old shows msyelf, also largely courtesy of my parents and TBS reruns back in the early days of that station. Nothing like a good episode of MASH or Hogan’s Heroes or I Love Lucy, but the fact that you didn’t catch Katz’s reference to McFly leaves me concerned regarding your pop-culture education - you need to go out and rent Back to the Future I at the very least to round out your education. Episodes of Eight is Enough, Facts of Life, The Cosby Show and Who’s the Boss , while not required, will also help supplement your education… ; )

Lew - how did you feel about Rawhide? I grew up with TBS reruns on summer mornings - Rawhide and Little House on the Prairie. There’s where I learned to love Clint Eastwood and the western…

Cheers all.

By Lew

September 11, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this

RichBrave-You got that right. Continued Breathing is somewhat integral to the process. You do realize that list was OLD knowledgeable fans, don’t you? Hey-we got the wisdom thing going, right? Right?

By TBraveFan

September 11, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this

Carroll - I remember well the next stop from NYC, Philly. I was there for that series (as were you I believe, I think I remember you being in the bar one night). Hearing the guys talk about their experience in NYC post 9/11 was so sad. And I remember when we all heard a plane -obviously landing at PHL - but not one of us didn’t stop mid-conversation and have a chill run down our backs in pensive anticipation…

By katz

September 11, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this

when continued breathing becomes my chief concern, shoot my horse

By Jeff R

September 11, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

Based on Bradley’s post, and previous posts by DOB, Wren isn’t likely to tinker; he’s going to agressively restructure the roster. Not saying that he’s cleaning house - he’s not - but I think he’ll be open to a lot of possibilites, all the while keeping his focus on starting pitching and power bats. But, except for four players I can think of - Jurjens, McCann, Jones and Escobar - every other player on the current roster is up for grabs. I believe Wren will package and move talent to get back to get what the team needs.

Finally, if Wren thinks that Sabbathia fits the bill, he needs to make an offer. Could the Yankees outbid the Braves for C.C.’s services? Sure. But it doesn’t hurt to put your best offer on the table.

By Lew

September 11, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

Christy-Rawhide was all right, but I really never got into it until decades later. It must have been on at a bad time or something. Little House came on when I had a kid of my own and by then it was trite (Yes, it was lovable and endearing, but……).

Growing up, I watched a lot of Mission Impossible (the original-pre Peter Graves), the original Star Trek (back before we realized it looked hokey-before the movies, that is). Also watched lots of cartoons-Bugs and the Gang (always liked Taz, myself. I even have a Taz key chain), Popeye and all the 30’s and 40’s Merrie Melodies stuff (those were OUR reruns). Lots of Three Stooges and Little Rascals too, though they were really from my Parents generation. Sea Hunt was a Saturday evening staple (And then I saw it).

Watched all of the Gilligan’s Island shows when they came out and we all ran to the dorm after classes to watch Dark Shadows.

Hey, I even watched Super Bowl I and distinctly remember the Ohio State/USC Rose Bowl with OJ at running back for the Trojans. Guess I MUST be old.

By Jim

September 11, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this

Here’s a minor trade idea that I posted at the end of the last blog and could pay some dividends: Boyer to the Mets for Heilman. Both of these pitchers have worn out their welcomes in their current cities, and both have more potential than they have exhibited this year. A change in scencery may resurrect their careers. I think Heilman is a much better pitcher than he has shown this year, and may be better suited as a starter than a reliever. He prefers starting, and could serve as an adequate back of the rotation guy until youngsters like Morton and Hanson are ready to assume a larger role. This is certainly not a quick fix to the Braves’ problems, but could be a net plus going forward.

By McFann ;Ô;

September 11, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this

Christy—

We watch Cosby, too!

Back to 9/11:

We were getting ready to go to the dentist, when my brother came upstairs and told me what happened. We were real young, then…And The Bird (Petey) was only five months old…and skinny!

Since DOB isn’t here to give us a song, I got one for y’all. It’s by Alan Jackson:

Where were you when the world stopped turning that September day

Out in the yard with your wife and children

Working on some stage in LA

Did you stand there in shock at the site of

That black smoke rising against that blue sky

Did you shout out in anger

In fear for your neighbor

Or did you just sit down and cry

Did you weep for the children

Who lost their dear loved ones

And pray for the ones who don’t know

Did you rejoice for the people who walked from the rubble

And sob for the ones left below

Did you burst out in pride

For the red white and blue

The heroes who died just doing what they do

Did you look up to heaven for some kind of answer

And look at yourself to what really matters

I’m just a singer of simple songs

I’m not a real political man

I watch CNN but I’m not sure I can tell you

The difference in Iraq and Iran

But I know Jesus and I talk to God

And I remember this from when I was young

Faith hope and love are some good things he gave us

And the greatest is love

Where were you when the world stopped turning that September day

Teaching a class full of innocent children

Driving down some cold interstate

Did you feel guilty cause you’re a survivor

In a crowded room did you feel alone

Did you call up your mother and tell her you love her

Did you dust off that bible at home

Did you open your eyes and hope it never happened

Close your eyes and not go to sleep

Did you notice the sunset the first time in ages

Speak with some stranger on the street

Did you lay down at night and think of tomorrow

Go out and buy you a gun

Did you turn off that violent old movie you’re watching

And turn on “I Love Lucy” reruns

Did you go to a church and hold hands with some stranger

Stand in line and give your own blood

Did you just stay home and cling tight to your family

Thank God you had somebody to love

I’m just a singer of simple songs

I’m not a real political man

I watch CNN but I’m not sure I can tell you

The difference in Iraq and Iran

But I know Jesus and I talk to God

And I remember this from when I was young

Faith hope and love are some good things he gave us

And the greatest is love

I’m just a singer of simple songs

I’m not a real political man

I watch CNN but I’m not sure I can tell you

The difference in Iraq and Iran

But I know Jesus and I talk to God

And I remember this from when I was young

Faith hope and love are some good things he gave us

And the greatest is love

The greatest is love

The greatest is love

Where were you when the world stopped turning that September day?

By Lew

September 11, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this

Katz-Why wait that long? Maybe you need to check out now. Sure aren’t contributing anything worthwhile to the conversation the past couple days, anyway-kind of like wasted breath.

By TheAntiMe

September 11, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this

Don’t look now, Albert Pujols, but Chipper ain’t done yet in the race for the NL Silver Slugger Award.

You’re so right, Carroll, those maple bats are bad news, no doubt. As the late great Ronnie Van Zant said:

*Why don’t we dump ‘em people

to the bottom of the sea*

By Mets2008WS

September 11, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this

Regardless of what the Braves do in 09, it will not be enough to compete with the Mets, Phillies. The Mets are looking to aquire starting pitching, and a closer, just like the Braves are. And we have the money to spend on a Sabbathia or a Krod. I don’t see the Braves shelling out the money to put a winning team on the field. They never have, and will probably just sign a Garland and maybe resign Mike Hampton. There are too many holes for you guys to fill. It’ll be another 3rd place finish for you, if you’re lucky.

By Lew

September 11, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this

AntiMe-I think you’ll find that the Silver Slugger Award goes to the person with the best offensive year at each position. Because of this, Chipper should already have won the award for NL third basemen this season. Pujols plays first, so is not in competition with Chipper for the Silver Slugger. They are competing for the NL Batting Championship.

By Carroll Rogers

September 11, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this

Yes, JL, they still stay at the Hyatt. Beware of over-priced drinks at that hotel bar. Lovely lobby though.

TBraveFan, yes that sounds like me. It was definitely surreal traveling around with the team post 9/11. I went on the charter that first long trip afterward because airports were just a mess. The most poignant time for me was one of the days we were in New York. I got to accompany some of the Braves down to Ground Zero where they were taken to visit police, firefighters, etc, working down there. The look I saw in the eyes of those folks is something I’ll never forget. It was the same in all of them. Like every one of them had seen something they should never have to see.

By katz

September 11, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this

Katz-Why wait that long? Maybe you need to check out now. Sure aren’t contributing anything worthwhile to the conversation the past couple days, anyway-kind of like wasted breath.

Et tu, Doodles?

By TheAntiMe

September 11, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the correction, Lew. My bad.

By MGL

September 11, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this

Lew - You are forgetting that Sir David Wright is entitled to all third base awards.

By AZ Braves Fan

September 11, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this

So just doing a little quick math on the bat thing: 67 days (7/2 - 9/7) X 15 games X 85% (to account for approx days off on schedule) = 844. So that means 2 broken bats per game on average.

Does that sound high or low for this year — I mean how many games have you watched where there were zero broken? And how does that compare to what you remember about years gone by?

I’d say the MLB boys have been lucky with only 2 or 3 significant injuries so far….

By Brian

September 11, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

Lew- Katz may not be an expert on baseball but that boy is FUNNY!!! Liked the J.Anderson thing

By 22oz

September 11, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this

Read my mind with the song post McFann. Good job.

I was in my 3rd year of college at GC&SU down in Milledgeville,Ga. I had a 8 am physics lab, and came back to the dorm to take a nap, and just happened to turn on the tv. I didn’t get to take a nap.

Old tv shows: Andy Griffith, hands down. I was named after him actually. It was either gonna be Andy or Brett, after George Brett. So, American icon or Hall of Famer, guess i couldn’t lose either way.

By Brian

September 11, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

Has anyone read anything on the Japanese P Tazawa? Braves are one of like 4 or 5 teams interested in him. He said he’s going to pitch for MLB. Red Sox will probably outbid everyone for him but wouldn’t that be awesome if we got em’? His #s are pretty good and he’s young too.

By AZBravoFan

September 11, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this

Boy Met fan is sounding awfully cocky on an early September day considering what happened last year…

By Big Easy

September 11, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this

My 9/11 memories: I was in my last year of college at SPSU, and didn’t have any classes that morning. I was in the living room of our apartment, watching a movie, or something. I had turned the movie off, and saw the crawl at the bottom of the screen about a plane hitting the WTC. No video of the incident, just a talking head. I figured at the time it was like the guy who flew into the Empire State Building in the 1940’s. A few minutes later, my roommate comes busting in the apartment from class, and grabs the remote. He says “Didn’t you hear about the Trade Center?” I told him what I thought, and he told me what was going on, as we switched to the news, right after the second plane had hit. It was so surreal.

My job has since taken me to NYC numerous times, and I have been by Ground Zero a couple of times. The first time I went, it was just humbling.

~E~

By brewdawg

September 11, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this

Carroll,

What about Denny Neagle? Did we acquire him in a mid-season trade (I think so) or was he a free-agent?

By Goodoleboy58

September 11, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this

Trivia time… No google!

Only 2 pitchers have given up a homerun to Hank Aaron and Barry Bonds.. Name ‘em if you can.

By McFann ;Ô;

September 11, 2008 2:52 PM | Link to this

22oz—

Thanks. Kinda funny that he mentions “I Love Lucy reruns” in that song, as well.

Andy Griffith is definitely the best show ever—well, while Don Knotts was on it, anyway. The color episodes are not nearly as great, at least IMHO.

You’re named after him,eh? That’s cool!

By DAP

September 11, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this

Mets2008WS the braves will have many holes to fill, and the mets and phillies will to. it is going to be a busy offseason for the NL east, with all the marlins players set to get raises, the phillies replaceing a few pitchers and burrell, the mets replacing wagner, pedro, perez, ect…everyone has holes to fill. i wouldnt be to smug if i were you. you guys arent the only team who can afford CC, or K-rod. i think the yankess will go crazy this year getting some of these guys.

By Bobby Fleet

September 11, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this

McFann

Great call on the song. I still have to stop whatever I am doing whenever that song comes on. It captured the feelings that I think we all felt during that time.

I have to agree with you on the old TV shows. I watched Gilligan’s Island, Leave It To Beaver, Hogan’s Heroes, Father Knows Best, Petticoat Junction, Beverly Hillbillies, Gomer Pyle and, of course, the greatest of all, Andy Griffith, on TBS (then WTCG) every afternoon after school.

Bradley’s column about Bobby Cox brings to mind a quote from Gomer in the episode where Barney bought a car and he took Andy, Aunt Bee, Opie and Gomer for a ride. Gomer was getting carsick so they changed the seating arrangement. Andy later asked Gomer how he was doing, to which he replied, “Sick as a dog but having the time of my life.” Bobby hates losing but he would still rather be running a baseball team than anything else.

By richbrave

September 11, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this

LEW:

Yours of 12:39 p.m. Well, when I was young I knew I had it. In middle age, I thought I had it. In old age, I can’t remember where I put it.

By nolie

September 11, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this

What about Denny Neagle? Did we acquire him in a mid-season trade (I think so) or was he a free-agent?Brewdawg

August 28, 1996: Traded by the Pittsburgh Pirates to the Atlanta Braves for a player to be named later, Ron Wright, and Corey Pointer (minors). The Atlanta Braves sent Jason Schmidt (August 30, 1996) to the Pittsburgh Pirates to complete the trade

By etownbrave

September 11, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this

Excellent song choice McFann. Still find it very hard to listen to that song and a few others that refer to 9/11. I was coming home from the grocery store when I heard someone on the radio say a plane had hit one of the WTC buildings. I just assumed it was a small plane that had lost control. Then I got home and watched it all. I am still saddened when this day rolls around each year and realize that so much, yet so little has changed. Bless all who serve this country!

By DJScrib

September 11, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this

Neagle was acuired in a midseason deal in which we gave up Jason Schmidt.

Maybe not a great idea since we really didn’t need a lights out #4/#5 starter.

By bobby

September 11, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this

Why the love affair with Pat Burrell? Has anyone checked his statistics? If they can’t make a better upgrade than than, don’t waste prospects or money.

By DAP

September 11, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this

a lights out #4/#5 starter.

is that an oxymoron?

By brian

September 11, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this

Burrell would be a waste for the Braves. He needs to be a DL in the American League. He cannot run and cannot play the field. Stats are not that great either. I would rather have Anderson, Schaffer, and Blanco manning LF and RF and the Braves move to more of a manufacturing runs offense

By Jim

September 11, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this

Best TV shows:

1. Inspector Morse on PBS
2. Frasier
3. All in the Family
4. Star Trek
5. The Twilight Zone

A lot of the shows of the 50’s were memorable in part because TV was so new that just about anything they put on was memorable. The Honeymooners was particularly memorable back then even if the plot lines were just a rework of Amos and Andy

By Thrillhouse44

September 11, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

One of the best birthday “presents” I ever received was Kent Mercker/Mark Wholers/Alejandro Pena’s no hitter on September 11, 1991. 10 years later was one of the worst days in history. Reading Chipper’s quotes brings back the raw emotions and uncertainty we all felt at that time. Even though this season has been disappointing, it’s nothing in the grand scheme of things. Be thankful for what you have and be thankful to be an American.

Go Braves!

By Brian

September 11, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this

MutMan- Your Muts are UNDERACHEIVING despite there position. Think about this- with our injuries and Francoeur, the phillies having NO ONE outside of Hamels and maybe Moyer in there rotation, the Marlins having a payroll of 40-50 mill.- Do you really think you have that much to brag about?? With Santana, most analyst picked your Muts to run away with this division, yet your’re only a couple of games ahead of the Phils! YOU’RE TOUGH ON YOUR COMPUTER BLOGGING- YOU MUT LOVING LOSER, GET A LIFE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By keylargo

September 11, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this

1. The Three Stooges

2. Bonanza (with the original Hoss)

3. My Favorite Martian

By Get On With it

September 11, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this

I know where I was and remember well the pain of seeing the towers fall. But like most tragic events in life, we must look to the future. We don’t need to forget 9/11. But an anual reminder is insane.

9/11 should be in the history books for students to be taught and part of the stories of the sad days in our lives.

That is it. My moment of silence this morning is when I turn the TV off so I could get back to work.

By Steve from OH

September 11, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this

Why the love affair with Pat Burrell? Has anyone checked his statistics? If they can’t make a better upgrade than than, don’t waste prospects or money.

Pat Burrell’s career statistics are as follows: .258/.367/.486, .291 EqA. These are pretty good numbers, although his numbers in the past three seasons have been better (EqA’s of .296, .305, and .298). Pat Burrell’s statistics are poor reason to dismiss him as a legitimate LF option. Good arguments go something like: Burrell is going to be 33 next season, and will probably want a long-term deal for big-time money. While he satisfies a definite need for power and on-base ability, is it worth signing him long-term and potentially blocking a guy like Heyward, Hernandez, or Schafer? Is a long term contract to Burrell a good investment considering he may enter a decline phase near the end of it? Or does the immediate gain he provides justify this?

For the record, Burrell has a career .944 OPS against left-handers, and bats right-handed, which fits our needs very well.

brian:

Brian McCann doesn’t run the bases very well either. Is he a poor option to be our everyday catcher? Also, you “manufacture” runs by getting on base and slugging, NOT by bunting, stealing bases, or hitting and running (i.e. giving away outs). Pat Burrell will do these things. If Burrell keeps posting .300 EqA’s, his defense will be perfectly adequate as long as he doesn’t start playing with a left-handed glove or something.

Not saying that I see Burrell as THE answer to our problems, but I do think he would be a good fit at the right price.

By DAP

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

Steve in OH i agree with you on burrell, but i dont think he will be the right price. i think either the phillies will resign him, or he will play for an AL team, who can DH him some. i also see him getting at least a 4 year deal, which is one year (maybe two) to long for us. i just dont see him as being a good peice for us. but he is a fine player.

a great thing would be a trade for a guy who has one year left on a contract. a guy like jermaine dye or magglio ordonez.

By Brian

September 11, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this

Getonwithit- It’s not so much that event as it is to the people that were basically murdered that morning. We should all be reminded how short life can be and take each day as it’s our last. We are so spoiled and sometimes selfish considering what some people have to go through!!

By nolie

September 11, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this

Best TV shows:

1. Inspector Morse on PBSJim

Insp Morse was great, no doubt. Since Thaw died, it has been replaced by Lewis I believe centering on Morse’s asst.

If you like that you might like Cracker and Wire In the Blood two more British crime shows.

DOB

No surprise that you are interesred in Sons Of Anarchy. Not many decent motorcycle shows around. I used to ride all the time, in fact in the late 60s & early 70s my ex and I had no cars, just bikes, though I was not a club member. You are perhaps too young to remember Then Came Bronson a one-season motorcycle Rte 66 type show with Michael Parks. 1969 I believe. When he was on the pavement he rode a Sportster I think, but when he took off across the terrain long shots would show he was on an off-roader. My ex’s heart was broken when he was cancelled after one year.

Lew

I really lived for all the 50s westerns. Maverick,Gunsmoke,Rawhide.Have Gun-Will Travel,Cheyenne,Sugarfoot,Cimarron City,The Restless Gun, Wanted:Dead or Alive,Wagon Train, Ponderosa and a short lived little gem named The Westerner.Sam Peckinpah created it just b4 he hit it big in the movies. It starred Brian Keith who roamed the west with his dog Brown. Only lasted 13 episodes. A little b4 it’s time. Keith was always one of my favorite actors and i was deeply saddened by his suicide.

By Bobby Fleet

September 11, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

Thrillhouse44

I went to that game, too. I went with a group from my office, most of whom were not baseball fans so they were not really paying attention. I noticed about the 5th inning that Mercker had a no-hitter going and I tried to ask the only other guy who was paying attention to the game if he realized what was going on without actually saying it, so I would not be the one that jinxed it. We watched the rest of the game without saying anything about it and it felt like we were about the only two people in the stadium who knew they were watching a no-hitter. Wben the game was over and they annnounced it I bet 75% of the people there were totally surprised.

By Hit, Heap, Hit!

September 11, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

Last year at this time, the Mets were 7 games up with 17 to play - today they are up 3.5 with 17 games to play with 10 of those 17 games being vs Braves and Nats.

Could it really happen again? Mwah! I hope so.

By Steve from OH

September 11, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this

DAP, I’ve been reading the speculation here about Magglio and that would be a great move for us. But if we traded for him it would limit our flexibility to trade for an ace. We’d probably have to go out and sign someone if that happened.

Something else to think about w/ Burrell: if we sign him, we take him away from the Phillies, which hurts them as much as it helps us. But I agree with the rest of that.

Man, I can’t wait to see what happens this winter.

By Herschel Talker

September 11, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this

To quote Cuba Gooding and Tom Cruise: I lovvvvvvvvvvvve black people!

By richbrave

September 11, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this

It never ceases to amaze me how METS fans jump on a BRAVES blog and rant about THEIR team. They really are the “amazin’s.” Have I ever thought how much fun it would be to raz METS fans on one of their blogs? Actually I have, but I don’t have the time. And it just ain’t that much fun. I’d rather deal with my own team’s foilibles and triumphs. Hey, “JOKER” explain please.

By Modrod

September 11, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this

McFann, I certainly agree with your comment about the Andy Griffith shows being better in black/white. Don Knotts had left the show when they went to color. I think that is the main reason for the decline. No episodes were better than the ones in which Ernest T. Bass appeared. The producers actually had to limit the number of times he appeared because he was becoming such a popular character.

By David-ATL14

September 11, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

Greg in Tennessee thanks for the shout out a couple of blogs back.

Been away on an Alaskan cruise. Just not getting caught up on the blogs.

It will be one interesting winter in “Planet Brave” during the offseason.

Well we have UT football to pass the time. Not off to a promising start there either.

Good to hear from ya!

By Brian

September 11, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this

Herschel Talker- I lovvvvvvvvvvvve white people! Uh-oh, was that racist?

By TennesseePaul

September 11, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this

Great blog Carroll. 9/11 was quite a Time. I recall attempting to exit my lab on state grounds only to be trapped in my car for 3 hours as the entire government owned site was locked down. This after waking in the morning to the news. It happened early over here for West Coasters. It was the single worst day I can remember. I was in NY this summer. I visited the site for the first time since the attacks. I was disappointed to find no view available. No plaque marking the moment. It will come eventually, but 7 years later it isn’t there. It’s still a hole. Tragic on so many levels.

The list off “big” purchases is quite telling. I think this team will continue to procure top talent through trades. I’d image any free agent brought in will be mid level and not star level. We’ll see though. The off season is shaping up to be more exciting than this regular season. Let’s hope it doesn’t end the same way.

By Anders

September 11, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this

By Get On With It 3:52 Post

Not sure if you’re a regular on here but if you are, not using your real name is cowardly. That said, many, many people mourn for years after loved ones are lost. Especially on the anniversary of the day they were lost. In this case many people were lost at the same time in the same place at the hands of terrorists. Therefore, their loved ones mourn together. No one is forced to participate, watch on TV, speak about it or even acknowledge that these memorials are happening. So you have every right to close your eyes to it and go about your life. Being from NY I knew three people who were lost that day at the towers. Each of these men had wives and children left behind who I’m sure went to the site today in their honor. I was at the site just last night and even to this day with all the construction going on it is a very sobering place.

I’m judging by your post that you didn’t know anyone lost there. You should at least take a moment to be thankful for that today before “getting on with your life”.

By Efrim

September 11, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this

Magglio Ordonez? Yes please. Although, I worry about those two options after next year. But 1 year and 18 million is at least a decent short term investment. How much would we have to give up? Renteria is leaving, so maybe Brent Lillibridge and Jo Jo Reyes? Is that too much?

By beekay

September 11, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this

Just bought playoff tickets to see the Pelicans vs the Potomac Nationals in the Carolina League Championship on Friday here in Va.. I know Heyward, Flowers and Gorys are on the team but is there anyone else I should keep an eye on? Two years ago a Pelican pitcher named Bryan Digby gave my daughter a ball. We sat in the grandstand by the bullpen and chatted with the pitchers the entire game. I remember them telling me how dominant the D-Rays farm teams were back then. I’ll bet some of those same guys are responsible for Tampas turnaround this year.

By TheCutMan

September 11, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this

Looking at all these posts in regard to a team that’s had the season the Braves have had, has to be encouraging for the franchise.

Seeing all the poignant memories of 9-11 from so many fans is equally encouraging for the USA.

By 1957 Braves Fan

September 11, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this

My favorite 1950’s TV show was The Tales of the Texas Rangers where the Rangers were seen walking down a street towards the camera. They were singing the theme song (The Eyes of Texas are upon You tune with different words) and would split off until just the two stars were left.

By mbatl

September 11, 2008 5:04 PM | Link to this

Seems to me that Ordonez, while a nice addition, would actually cost a minimum of $21 million!

The $18 mil salary, and $3 mil buyout for 2010. PLUS whatever prospects/players we have to send to Detroit for him.

In addition to all that, it appears to me that his $15 mil contracts for 2010 and 2011 are guaranteed if he plays close to every day (135 starts) in ‘09 and ‘10. So it’s not a short-term commitment.

I like the guy, but it seems like a mighty steep price to pay for a player who will be 35 at the start of the deal.

His contract really looks like an albatross to me. Just what we don’t need.

I renew my suggestion: trade for Brian Giles for one year. Would probably cost a couple of mid-level players/prospects, and about $10 mil for one year.

By Brian

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

Anders- We actually agree on something!

By Braveheart

September 11, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this

The Dodgers went from 4.5 games out to 3.5 games up within 12 days and 11 games. That’s the kind of magic the Braves always seemed to pull off.2

By Anders

September 11, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this

Tenessee Paul

Didn’t you go on to the Liberty Bridge which overlooks ground zero? It’s there for visitors to see the site. Also, the firehouse right next door to the site which lost 6 men has an incredible memorial carved into the side of the whole firehouse. It’s a carved mural depicting the events of that day. Absolutely incredible to see. They also lists all 348 of the lost firemens names at the bottom of the mural. These things are on the soutwwest corner of the site.

By Josh

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

Carroll Someone mentioned somewhere up the blog about the Braves’ possible interest in Japanese pitcher Junichi Tazawa. This Blog Post mentions that Frank Wren was scouting Tazawa in person. Do you know if this is true? I hope that it is; if Frank is over there himself then that mean’s there is probably some serious interest there. Tazawa’s numbers are good, his stuff is good and I would be excited to see the Braves tap into the Japanese talent pool.

By spotts

September 11, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this

Why go after average players like Demptster and Lowe? There’s no point! We can’t compete unless we have studs ready in the minors (not yet) or we sign some big name FAs, like Sabathia, Sheets, and Dunn. But we all know that’s not going to happen, so we’re going to be stuck with another year of mediocrity and no postseason. Sad day.

By Anders

September 11, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

Brian

Anders- We actually agree on something

How’bout that! You are talking about your 3:46 post - right?

By Wayne

September 11, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

On 9-11-01, I was at work. I heard about the tragic events, followed it on the radio, then went home mid-day, so I could be there when my children came home from school, so I could try as best I could to explain why some people do the things they do…….

By Anders

September 11, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this

Speaking of Japan. Word up here is that the Yanks dispatched Gene Micheal (the real brains behind the Yanks) to Japan week’s ago to assess what talent is over there too. I’m telling you Hankenstein is gonna buy everything in site this off season. Think of the trifecta that might hit the Yanks. The Mets, Red Sox and Rays (the Yanks hierarchy is based in Tampa) all make the playoffs and the Yanks are left with a silent October in the last year of the old stadium.

Scott Boras must go to bed every night hoping he wakes up tomorrow and the World Series is already over!

By TennesseePaul

September 11, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this

Anders: Yes I went on the bridge. And there were a couple of chinks in the steal grating so I could get a small glimps of the site. I spoke to the “help desk” they had set up. The high school kid stopped texting for a moment to inform me that the only thing to do was walk the bridge. It was real disapointing to find that most views from the bridge were obstructed. I was able to hang my camera out through a crack between the barriers and record some images. But that didn’t make up for all that could be done.

By Brian

September 11, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this

Anders- If you agree on that, you’re smarter than I thought. WOW!

By TennesseePaul

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

Braveheart: Yes it is the same kind of magic. And, come playoff time, The Dodgers will again be wept out of the post season leaving them with 1 post season win in the last 20 years. That team is very capabale of extreme hot and extreme cold periods. It doesn’t hurt that they pretty much play no body worth mentioning the remainder of the season.

By Carroll Rogers

September 11, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this

lineup: Anderson, Johnson, Jones, McCann, Escobar, Kotchman, Francoeur, Blanco, Jurrjens.

from what bobby had to say when i asked him about morton, it looks like he probably won’t pitch the rest of the way trying to rest this scapula/rib thing.

By AdirondackDave

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

Nolie - I also liked Inspector Morse a lot. The sequel featuring his assistant Lewis, not so much. Another BBC show my wife and I enjoyed was Lovejoy, the antiques hustler. Haven’t seen any episodes for years.

By Lew

September 11, 2008 5:52 PM | Link to this

Katz-Dude, just saying that you apparently have this thing about getting older. If it bothers you that much, you might just want to avoid old age completely. One thing is for sure-if you DO get older, you will get arthritis, high cholestoral, aches, pains, heart disease, poor vision, poor circulation, dimentia and all sorts of afflictions that seemingly don’t fit with your life view-all of which you ascribe to we old folks like RichBrave and Myself. Why go through all that hell? Just end it all now. Apparently you think we should.

By THB

September 11, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this

Derek Lowe is not mediocre. He’s still very, very good, and I think he’d be a great pickup-as a #2 starter. We still need an ace if we want to be competitive, and a power hitting LFer. If we could manage to get a Halladay or Oswalt then we’d compete. Then we’d have Lowe and Jurrjens for the top 3, and get a Magglio for LF.

By Lew

September 11, 2008 6:00 PM | Link to this

RichBrave-The thing about Mets fans is that they always view their teams’ performance in terms of the Braves’ performance, whereas Braves fans view the Braves performance (or this season, the lack thereof) in terms of the Braves performance. Must be because Mets’ fans looked at the Braves’ behinds in the standings for so long.

If the Mets finished ahead of us for a decade and a half (yes, I realize that’s a ridiculous concept), maybe we would feel the same way. Doubtful, but maybe.

By MGL

September 11, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this

Burrell’s stats since first of Aug are Francoeuresque.

By Brian

September 11, 2008 6:04 PM | Link to this

Our way= Trade for Halladay and Tallet Braves way= Sign Lowe or Garland, keep Glavine,Reyes and have Jurrjens lead the pack. Hopefully our way will be a reality and I trust Wren, but these are the Braves

By Lew

September 11, 2008 6:05 PM | Link to this

Adirondack Dave- My wife and I have always liked the Jeremy Brett Sherlocke Holmes episodes and the David Suchet Poirot series on Biography Channel. Wish they’d bring them back on the weekends again.

By richbrave

September 11, 2008 6:05 PM | Link to this

nolie:

Wasn’t “THE VIRGINIAN” in that era also.

By Jamie in Richmond

September 11, 2008 6:09 PM | Link to this

Get On With It

Congratulations. You’re officially the most ignorant and assinine person in the entire world. If it were up to me 9/11 clips would be shown once a week so that we, as a country, never forget what we’re up against and what tropps across the world are sacrificing for every single day. Unfortunately, they even sacrifice their lives for idiots like you who hold zero perspective. Never forget.

By richbrave

September 11, 2008 6:14 PM | Link to this

doodles to katz:

Et tu doodles.

Naw man, I ain’t et nuthin’.!!!!

By Jamie in Richmond

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

Carroll

Tremendous remeberance in your blog today. Excellent work as always.

Got a question for you regarding Charlie: I’ve read that along with the pain he’s been suffering from in his back/ribs/torso he has apparently also lost quite a bit of weight. Have the Braves ruled out any chance of something more serious like a growth of some kind? When I’d read of his pains in that unspecified area along with- and especially the weight loss- it concerned me a little bit beyond thinking of a standard baseball injury. Hope you can give me some good news that I read too much into it :)

Thanks Carroll

By Jamie in Richmond

September 11, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this

McFann

Tremendous song choice, by you. That’s one that’ll stop you in your tracks everytime. Nice addition to the blog…

By Jamie in Richmond

September 11, 2008 6:26 PM | Link to this

beekay

You might also keep your eye on Travis Jones, the second baseman with some serious pop in his bat. Reminds me a lot of the Brewers’ Bill Hall. You’ll really enjoy seeing the Pelicans, they’ve got some serious players, of which you mentioned several. Where did you purchase the tix? I may have to do the same and make a road trip to Potomac tomorrow…

By McFann ;Ô;

September 11, 2008 6:45 PM | Link to this

Bobby Fleet, etownbrave, Jamie—

Thanks. Glad you liked the song. That is a great one. Tough to listen to, as you said.

One other thing I remember about that time is finally seeing planes fly again. Don’t remember quite how long it took, but I cann just remember pointing out the planes as we’d start seeing them again.

Bobby Fleet—

Oh, the Beverly Hillbillies are very funny, too! I like the black-and-white ones the best. Leave It To Beaver and Andy Griffith are my most favorites.

Modrod—

Yeah, once Don Knotts left, the show was no good. My dad was saying that they were going to end the show after season five, so Knotts took a movie offer, but then they decided to keep going with AG. But Don had already taken the movie deal, so they had to go without him. He was kind of upset.

Ernest T. is very funny! I like that first one with him—the one where he wants to marry the Darling girl (don’t know how to spell her name right off hand). The episode My Fair Ernest T. is funny, too.

My most favorite episode has got to be the one where Barney and Floyd are trapped in that cabin with the escaped women prisoners. That one is classic!

By Pow wow

September 11, 2008 6:49 PM | Link to this

I’m curious as to why Bobby isn’t playing more of the younger guys. This season is OVER but he continues to stay with the front liners.

I guess it’s more “fun” for him. Still can’t believe his “I’m better than ever” comment to Mark Bradley. It sure doesn’t appear to be the case when you look at the Braves record in one run games.

By McFann ;Ô;

September 11, 2008 6:49 PM | Link to this

Steve from OH Brian McCann doesn’t run the bases very well either.

Are you kidding? Man, he’s our best base runner! Hasn’t been caught yet!

; )

By McFann ;Ô;

September 11, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this

So Smoltz had a visit with Doc Andrews? Bet I know what Doc said to him:

“We’re no spring chickens anymore!”

By Lew

September 11, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this

PowWow-Exactly which young players are not playing? Seems to me that he’s had Brandon Jones, Anderson, Prado, and Blanco (or some combination of them) playing every game. Seems to me that Reyes and Parr are pitching in the rotation as well. Who have we missed? Maybe you’d do something stupid like replacing a White Hot Kelly Johnson with someone younger, too? Oh wait. Lillibridge and his sub ground level batting average and one HR is not in there. My bad.

By Carroll Rogers

September 11, 2008 7:14 PM | Link to this

Jamie, I didn’t have a chance to talk to Charlie today and in my conversations with Bobby and Frank they didn’t mention any concern about weight loss. I’m sure they’re giving him a thorough work-up, so i’d try not to worry!

Josh, you are correct. Frank was in Toyko last week and saw Tazawa pitch.

By McFann ;Ô;

September 11, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this

Aw, pooh! Stolen base…my oh my…

By Savannah Guy

September 11, 2008 7:27 PM | Link to this

Lew, growing old is not for wimps, is it.

Not good for pitchers either.

By Carroll Rogers

September 11, 2008 7:29 PM | Link to this

i missed it because i was back in the press cafeteria - but i felt it!! - there was a pre-game F16 fly over in honor of 9/11 and a nice on-field presentation with members of the Atlanta police and fire departments. players are wearing blue caps with red white and blue “A”s like they did on July 4 for the occasion.

By Carroll Rogers

September 11, 2008 7:34 PM | Link to this

dadgum, the young jurrjens has recorded his first five outs all by strikeout.

By Josh

September 11, 2008 7:43 PM | Link to this

Interesting to hear, thanks Carroll!

By TennesseePaul

September 11, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this

This must truly be a season from hell for Francoeur. Seems he always comes up with the bases loaded. Always. The whole stadium is watching him… so much pressure.

By keylargo

September 11, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this

This kills us at times. Three base hits and the bases are loaded.

By fastasballs

September 11, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this

4-30 with bases juiced for the French one. He can’t even produce a sac fly, unreal!

By McFann ;Ô;

September 11, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this

The ROE does not lower the AVG…does lower the OBP.

2-0 Braves!! Go JJJ!

By Savannah Guy

September 11, 2008 7:55 PM | Link to this

9-11 Memories:

I’ll never forget watching the news on that fateful morning, getting dressed for work and seeing the story about a plane crash. Assumed it was a horrible, tragic accident. Then, as I was watching that and trying to make sense of it, the second plane hit. Instantly we knew this was no accident.

In short, that morning and into the days that followed, there was a progression of emotions. First confusion, then shock, then horror at the scene and great sadness for the poor souls in the buildings… then pride in the heroes there… then great anger. Still haven’t forgiven the mass murderers.

The lasting emotion, actually mindset… has been great patriotism, pride in our country and honor for our brave troops that went to war.

By fastasballs

September 11, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this

Anyone think Wren will make a move to acquire a right fielder? Francoeur isn’t doing anything to help himself secure his job for next season.

I know he’s produced in the past, but at what point does Wren decide to go another route?

By Brian

September 11, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

Francoeur might be feeling it within himself but he is VERY fortunate he’s not NY/LA! I don’t remember the crowd really booing anyone NY/LA style since Deion Sanders. Maybe Justice in the 95’ WS after his comments.

By Jeff321

September 11, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this

Ya gotta love McCann taking that extra base!

By TennesseePaul

September 11, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this

Unbelievable. 2 plate appearances. 2 chances with the bases loaded.

By TennesseePaul

September 11, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this

Unbelievable. 2 plate appearances. 2 chances with the bases loaded.

By McFann :Ô:

September 11, 2008 8:12 PM | Link to this

See, Steve, Mac’s a great base runner! ; )

Holy cow…Francoeur’s up with the bases loaded again!

They hit Casey on purpose…

By BravesFanInRockies

September 11, 2008 8:15 PM | Link to this

Here’s a new strategy: If Frenchy comes up with the bases loaded at any time in the game (even the 1st inning) —PINCH HIT FOR HIM!!!!

By Tomas

September 11, 2008 8:15 PM | Link to this

Frenchy man get over the bases loaded troubles. You can tell he wanted to kick himself.

By Bench Stenchy

September 11, 2008 8:16 PM | Link to this

Phew!

By TennesseePaul

September 11, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this

fastasballs: At what point? I’d think it would be the point at which Wren finds he has either a) solidified all the other needs or b) challenged to include Francouer to solidify other needs. I don’t think Francoeur has done anything in the second half to mark him as untouchable or damn near impossible to trade. KJ has. Yunel has. Francoeur, not so much.

By braves70

September 11, 2008 8:22 PM | Link to this

Well we’ve seen the amazing Outo-o (Francoeur). I can’t wait until we get to see Boyer the Destroyer. This Braves circus of horrors is soooo entertaining. Maybe we will get a bonus of Porky Miller performing too? Pulling the strings is the Maestro of Mayhem, the Boob himself, Robert Cox.

By fastasballs

September 11, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this

Make that 4-31. 6 LOB in two at bats by the Golden Boy.

Anyone that leads the league in at bats with the bases loaded & has his stats, is no coincidence.

By McFann :Ô:

September 11, 2008 8:25 PM | Link to this

Jeff321—

Oh yeah!

By AdirondackDave

September 11, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this

Lew —- You’re right, I forgot all about Poirot. David Suchet was great in that series as was his sidekick, Captain ?? and his secretary with the occasional raised eyebrow. The art deco settings also made the series for us, remember the building with his home/office?

By fastasballs

September 11, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this

Ryan Howard has come to the plate with runners in scoring position only 4 more times than Francoeur, but has roughly twice the number of RBI’s as Francoeur.

By keylargo

September 11, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this

McFann

You got your 7:53 backwards. Reached on Error does count as an AB, thus lowering the BA, while OBP counts the AB but also counts reaching base, thus raising it.

By cooper

September 11, 2008 8:35 PM | Link to this

Two questions:

Why is JF starting almost every day?

Why call Lillibridge up to ride pine?

Yes KJ is hitting but who cares? Hitting in Sept will not mean hitting in April of 09.

Showcase Lilli, BJ and Anderson b/c they all could be either trade bait or 09 role players.

Or perhaps KJ is the trade bait piece and they are jazzed to see him hit well in Sept.

Either way let JF ride pine 3 days a week min and start Lilli 3-4 days a week min in place of Yunel or Kelly.

By AdirondackDave

September 11, 2008 8:37 PM | Link to this

Am I being disloyal to the Braves by kinda hoping they lose the next 15 games or so and get some really good draft picks? In the meantime, I sure hope Wren is aggressive this winter in trading and free agency.

By McFann :Ô:

September 11, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this

Keylargo—

His AVG is still .296, like it was at the start of the game. At this point in the season, with so many AB, the AVG doesn’t always go down after an “out”.

On the Gameday, it showed his OPS had gone down 2 points after that AB—so I’m guessing one point lost off the OBP, and one point lost off the SLG.

I looked up how to calculate the OBP, and it didn’t mention ROE. But maybe the thing was flawed, I don’t know.

By keylargo

September 11, 2008 8:51 PM | Link to this

Like DOB said last night - do you walk Kotchman (and give up a run) intentionally to get to Francoeur with the bases loaded?

By keylargo

September 11, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this

We got a break this time. Francoeur on leaves two on.

By McFann :Ô:

September 11, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this

AdirondackDave—

A 15 game losing streak? No thank you! Sorry, man.

Wow. McCann came thisclose to a game-tying homer! Wish the fair-poll woulda been scooted over just a touch…

By beachcomber

September 11, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this

Wow!Eight men LOB by #7 tonight. I remember the bad old days when Greg Nettles in the twilight of his career with the Braves left the sacks loaded three times in a game. Frenchy is closing in on that.

By Keep KJ

September 11, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this

Yes KJ is hitting but who cares? Hitting in Sept will not mean hitting in April of 09.

Frank Wren. The Braves. Etc. What’s KJ supposed to do? Not get any hits on purpose.

KJ should not and will not be traded. The Braves are fools like some on this blog who want Lillibridge, Prado or Infante as an everyday starter….a move that obviously would blow up in the Braves’ collective faces by June 2009.

By Keep KJ

September 11, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this

Yes KJ is hitting but who cares? Hitting in Sept will not mean hitting in April of 09.

Frank Wren. The Braves. Etc. What’s KJ supposed to do? Not get any hits on purpose.

KJ should not and will not be traded. The Braves are not fools like some on this blog who want Lillibridge, Prado or Infante as an everyday starter….a move that obviously would blow up in the Braves’ collective faces by June 2009.

By geauxbraves2000

September 11, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this

Francoeur needs to start next year in minor league spring training camp or on another team. If he is still a Brave, he needs to prove that he deserves a spot on the 25 man.

Geaux Braves!!

By braves70

September 11, 2008 9:04 PM | Link to this

What is the record for most LOB in a single game? Jeffrey has 8 so far tonight.

By McFann ;Ô;

September 11, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this

YEE-HAW!!! BRAVES LEAD!!

The AVG with RISP is up to .291, the season AVG is at .297!!

LET’S GET THE WIN FOR JURRJENS!!!

By fastasballs

September 11, 2008 9:20 PM | Link to this

In the NL the record for LOB is 12 for a nine inning game, 11 in the AL.

By Goat Horns

September 11, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this

Is Boyer pitching the 8th tonight?

By Jeff LOB

September 11, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this

Jeff LOB (born Jeff Francoeur) has left eight (8!) men on base tonight.

By Couch Tater

September 11, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this

Does anyone else have problems with the PTV feed? If not, please pardon my rant.

To any PTV engineers reading:

THE HAMSTER IS OFF THE WHEEL! PLEASE FEED!

By fastasballs

September 11, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this

Is there a reason Jorge Julio wasn’t called up months ago?

By Random

September 11, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this

“All of us should take a minute and reflect on the happenings of 9/11.”

Nor should we ever forget whose petty partisanship, personal agenda and and willful ignorance allowed that tragedy to happen — the SC appointee and current occupant at that time.

Never forget.

By richbrave

September 11, 2008 9:33 PM | Link to this

7th inning stretch time and the BRAVES are definitely NOT playing the NATIONALS.

By Name

September 11, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this

Is there a reason Jorge Julio wasn’t called up months ago?

Yeah….he’s Jorge Julio.

By fastasballs

September 11, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this

Nor should we ever forget whose petty partisanship, personal agenda and and willful ignorance allowed that tragedy to happen — the SC appointee and current occupant at that time.

Take this s** elsewhere. There are plenty of other blogs to spout your political opinion.

By richbrave

September 11, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this

fastasballs:

Mainly because JULIO was a CLEVELAND INDIAN until May 30.

By What does your petty statements have to do with fact?

September 11, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this

While most are honoring those who died on that fateful day, some are pointing fingers at those who did NOT cause this tragedy to happen, all because they have bought into a flimsy political agenda.

By braves70

September 11, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this

Fastasballs, thanks for the record LOB numbers. Francoeur should be a threat to break that at any time.

Couch Tater,I hate the sound on PTV. Those idiots in the Sun Trust box are right in the field mikes and I hear them more than the announcers.

By fastasballs

September 11, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this

Mainly because JULIO was a CLEVELAND INDIAN until May 30.

I’m aware of that, but he did put up decent #’s in Richmond since June, aside from the walks. Couldn’t have done much worse than Boyer has the past several months. Am I wrong?

By McFann ;Ô;

September 11, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this

Grove is 0-2 with a walk and a run scored—AVG at .289, and he just left a man in scoring position.

By Wayne

September 11, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this

fastasballs: I would have loved to see where our bullpen would be if not for it’s over/misuse this year.

While it is true that Boyer has been horrendous of late, earlier this year, he was a strong participant in the pen.

Many have faltered down the stretch: Carlyle, Bennett, Gonzo, Ohman along with Boyer.

By Random

September 11, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this

I don’t know, but I don’t see how the Braves’ Tavares looks any little bit worse than the Rockies Jimenez.

Looks wise, that is.

By SmartyArty

September 11, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this

Counting the amount of times Francoeur has screwed his team with the bases loaded is like counting how many McFann posts have been on this blog in a year

By Chop Chop

September 11, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this

The Rockies quit.

Congrats to them for choking any chance they had away. They were 2007 Mets-esque in this series.

Good job by the Bravos tonight, but I don’t want to see Jurrjens out on the mound anymore this season. He’s thrown enough pitches and enough innings. He’s had a hell of a rookie season. Time to shut ‘er down.

By McFann ;Ô;

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

Chim-chim-iny…chim-chim-iny…Chim chim cher-ee…A sweep is as lucky as lucky cann be!

Great series! I loved the way they played in this series! They fell behind, but fought back! They looked good in these three games!

Let’s hope they keep this fire with them in New York! Take two of three from the Metros!

SmartyArty—

“Haha.”

By fastasballs

September 11, 2008 10:12 PM | Link to this

SmartyArty You’re such a big man to take a swipe at a teenage blogger with a bogus handle. I wish I had your courage.

By beachcomber

September 11, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this

Surprisingly, one of the guys tied for the major league record for LOB (12) in a game and the last to do it is probably one of the best hitters in the past 20 years - Todd Helton.

By Run, Heap, Run

September 11, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this

Braves sweep! Braves sweep! Braves sweep!

No go play spoiler on the Mets!

By N8

September 11, 2008 10:16 PM | Link to this

While it’s fine and dandy for Chipper and McCann to be hootin’ and hollarin’ to fire up the troops, somebody should tell them that there is a high draft pick at stake.

On a serious note, it is pretty cool to see McCann getting all fired up in a COMPLETELY meaningless game.

About the time Tex was traded, I commented on the next month of meaningless games would show what these guys are mentally made up of.

Not as though we needed to be reassured about McCann, but I think it’s quite evident who the leader of this team will be when Chipper is gone.

It was also nice to Escobar hit a 3-run HR and not fling the bat like he just hit a moon shot (like Pujols against Lidge in the play-offs). Maybe he’s growing up after all.

Anybody else take a look at the photo of Morton on the Braves main page of the AJC and think to themselves…..”man, that dude is SKINNY.” ?

Kid needs to eat his Wheaties (or some chocolate cake). Maybe McCann can cut back on the extra dessert and give his portion to Charlie?

By Wayne

September 11, 2008 10:16 PM | Link to this

Last sweep was against the Muts in May. Would love to sweep them again!

By Random

September 11, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this

Three thousand people did not perish in a vacuum; 9/11 did not occur out of the blue.

Decontextualizing the circumstances of their tragic deaths does them as great a disservice as not remembering them at all.

And that’s a fact.

By fastasballs

September 11, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this

Wayne* I know the pen was exhausted early in the season for reasons you said, misuse & overuse.

The pen would have been good had Soriano performed & Moylan had not gone down to injury so early in the year. I just think if some moves were made earlier in the season this team would have a much better record. Probably not enough to contend, but countless games have been wasted by the bullpen this season.

By McFann ;Ô;

September 11, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this

fastasballs—

Ah, yes! Such courage! I’m shaking like a rock.

Sorry, SmartyArty, I can’t please everyone.

Night, all!

By Wayne

September 11, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this

McFann Don’t pay any attention to those who would anonymously slam you. You know you are appreciated by most on this blog.

There are some that….I will hold my tongue.

Where are BH and Grove tonight BA wise?

By Bobby Fleet

September 11, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this

McFann

I think Ernest T. Bass is probably the most hilarious character ever on any show. Agree that AG was never nearly as good without Barney. The one with Barney in the cabin with the female convicts is one of my favorites, too. Also anything with Ernest T. and / or the Darlings. Another favorite was Malcolm Meriweather and the one where Otis rode the cow. The early Beverly Hillbillies in black and white were hilarious, not so much later.

Oh, and the Braves are looking pretty good, too. Now they start to hit. Where has this been all year?

By underadifferentname

September 11, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this

Random Your observation about Tavares and Jimenez is correct, except Tavares has a few more wrinkles. (Your observation in your 9:30pm post was also correct.Good for you for recognizing dissent is a first principle of this great country and shame on those who labeled your opinion as the only “political” one. Beware those who can’t handle difference, they’re going to get us all killed.)

Congrats to our Bravos, I’m stunned at a sweep and the Braves not being the sweepee. Bring on the Mets!

By McFann ;Ô;

September 11, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this

Neight Not as though we needed to be reassured about McCann, but I think it’s quite evident who the leader of this team will be when Chipper is gone.

Couldn’t agree more with that and everything you wrote before it. (Except the high-draft thingy. ; ) )

Night, all! (again)

GOD BLESS AMERICA!!

By Wayne

September 11, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this

Risking the rather of the man that never starts anything, Random, please take your rant to the correct forum.

This is not the proper place.

By N8

September 11, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this

Carroll

Nice blog. Interesting to see some of the quotes from back then. Hard to believe it’s been seven years.

As for the free agent signings, I think you about summed it up.

We bloggers have often talked about how LITTLE that JS used free agency, other than to pick up the fringe guys, like the guys you mentioned.

What JS was really good at though, was spending the money to RETAIN such guys as McGriff, and resigning Maddux, Chipper, Smoltz, Glavine and even Andruw.

JS always seemed to make the correct decision on when to extend a contract, and when to cut a guy loose.

So while he didn’t use Ted’s money to “shop”, he certainly used it to re-sign guys that WOULD HAVE commanded big dollars on the open market.

I’m not so sure that Wren is gonna spend too much on the open market either. No sense getting into a bidding war for guys that are gonna really be over-paid.

Instead, I see him making trades for guys with a year or two left on their deals that are more or less salary dumps for the other teams.

1) By taking on salary another team is trying to rid itself of, he won’t have to give up the premium prospects (Shafer, Heyward, etc…)

2) It will allow him to use the dollars that are there to be used, while leaving enough wiggle room for mid-season trades, and (or) Smoltz and Glavine deciding to play. Add to that, taking on higher salaries that aren’t locked in for 4-6 years, won’t hamper him when the kids like Shafer and Heyward are ready to play.

Really nothing more than common sense, IMO.

That being said, I think he will bring in a couple of 2nd tier free agents. Probably a starting pitcher NOT named Sheets or Sabathia. Probably a left-fielder NOT named Manny Ramirez. And maybe even a reliever NOT named K-Rod.

Will it be enough? Who knows? But over-spending on 2 or 3 guys would be a huge mistake IMO, unless Liberty Media informs him to “spend whatever it takes” to make the Braves a winner again.

Anybody out there think that THAT is gonna happen?

Me neither.

By Brian

September 11, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this

McFann- I had no clue you were a girl, nothing wrong with that, but you give some very smart baseball knowledge!! More than I have, for sure!! KEEP BLOGGIN’

By Couch Tater

September 11, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this

Braves70 I hope you get the picture. On the feed I’m getting, the picture seems to “lock-up” and freeze. It happens several times during the game. Sometimes, it may last the half inning until they break for a commercial.

You certainly want to see Jeff bat with the bases loaded. Ha Ha.

By AdirondackDave

September 11, 2008 10:38 PM | Link to this

McFann — Agree completely with Wayne… I appreciate your enthusiasm for Mac and the others. Always read your posts which are on the button. Ignore the smarmy guy… he reflects on himself and no one else.

By Wayne

September 11, 2008 10:42 PM | Link to this

N8 Ditto. I would love to see some restraint on retreads, and some patience with our own prospects. Even if we sacrifice our shot at the post season next year, I think it will be worth it long-term, regardless of BC’s situation.

By underadifferentname

September 11, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this

Wayne, speaking of the correct forum and since you raised the point, I wonder what Iraqi parents explain to their children about us?

Don’t take advantage of this horrible event to present your political view as a commeration and then go and tell someone else they can’t say what thoughts 9/11 evokes in them.

I think we should stick to baseball and leave 9/11 to other forums, love Carroll bunches though :)

By Jake

September 11, 2008 10:47 PM | Link to this

While I love playing spoiler and would love even more to play spoiler to New York, the pitching matchups are not favorable. We have Santana, Martinez, and Perez. But hopefully we can continue to swing the bats because if we win this series with their three best pitchers pitching it will be even sweeter.

By N Nine

September 11, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this

THE CHIPPER JONES UPDATE:

Chipper: 1-4 .362

Pujols: 1-4 .361

Yunel’s avg back up to .290..he is reaching those spring expectations..

Our young core guys(kj,yunel,and pardo) starting to heat up..that is until we bring up Jeff F. Can anyone give me the LOB leaders..I’m sure he’s in top 10 in that stat. DOB’s chilling stats regarding bases loaded and missed RBI’s are unreal. The baseball GODS always finds Jeff in key runners on base situations.

Jurrjens: Dare we say 15 game winner in rookie year? This guy should have already gotten it! Remember the no run game in the 9th and didn’t get any support? STUD

By bfan54

September 11, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this

Earlier in this blog it was the expressed view of someone (maybe representing a consensus) that the untouchables on this team are limited to Jurrgens,McCann, Jones, and Escobar. I would like to suggest that Kelly Johnson be retained. Here’s why: his stats show consistency over the 3 years he’s played, and more significantly the last 2 years at 2B. Those who would denigrate his performance as a 2B fail to consider the value of experience. (Eddie Mathews comes to mind -look at his 46 errors at 3b in his early career - heck, look at Chipper’s career .958 average.

Kelly is solid, if not spectactular, and, he and Junel would anchor the infield, with no downside - apart from the fact that neither has any significant HR power. (Neither did Lemke and Blauser).

We need a solid infield, and KJ and Junel provide this in the middle, with Chipper and our other pieces covering 3b very adequately. While, I absolutley feel first base power and skill is lacking, let’s not go and fix what ain’t broke in the middle, given our corner strength.

By Carroll Rogers

September 11, 2008 11:03 PM | Link to this

N8, sounds post at 10:30 p.m. i was thinking later, after i wrote that, that i should have mentioned all the re-signing the braves have done over the years. So thanks for pointing that out.

this little tidbit from bobby after the game on Jurrjens: “I think it’s harder than he’s thrown all year. he hit 95 four or five times.”

Jurrjens said he’s been changing his between-start routine to ease some of the fatigue on his body. he’s not throwing as often. he’s not running as much. and he’s doing just upper-body workouts, not lower. and yes, he saw a difference in his fastball. the 10Ks was a career high, and helped JJ live up to a promise he made to his cousin that he’d get there some time this year!

i agree. somebody needs to hand charlie morton a french fry….and couch tater, you crack me up. the hamster is off the wheel. eloquently put.

By caballo muerto

September 11, 2008 11:05 PM | Link to this

wow. The history channel just had the most comprehensive, raw, gut-wrenching piece on 9-11 I’ve seen.

Try to see it if they replay it.

By kirknga

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

Nice win for our guys!

I see the debate about the offseason continues. I would add that I think people are making a mistake if they believe it is only top-tier pitchers or position players who are likely to be “overpaid”.

There is only one bona fide, superstar,award-winning, top-tier pitcher in this year’s free agent crop and that is Sabathia. After him, there are a few 2nd tier guys, and lots of guys who may be a significant upgrade over what we have.

You have to pay for top talent, it doesn’t come available on the open market that much these days. So when the dearth of talent remaining after Sabathia meets the large demand for pitching, there is going to be some overpaid pitchers from the top down.

So you’re going to overpay either way, why not overpay for the best?

By Brian

September 11, 2008 11:23 PM | Link to this

With KJ there is alot to like. He shows emotion, he wants to win and plays hard. Question is, can he stay consistant enough where the Braves don’t regret trading Prado-if they do?

By Wayne

September 11, 2008 11:33 PM | Link to this

underadifferentname

First question, why the secrecy? Why can’t you call me out using your normal screen name? What are you afraid of? I know that the premise of the blog is that all are anonymous, but in this particular forum, we are mostly known by our “name”. ie. Wayne, Lew, McFann, N8, and many, many others.

I just find it frustrating when some would feel the need to slam others and not have the intestinal fortitude to use your normal screen name. Do you think I would not respect you from that point on (I probably wouldn’t)?

Second, I am pasting your last comments to me:

Wayne, speaking of the correct forum and since you raised the point, I wonder what Iraqi parents explain to their children about us?

I don’t know what they tell their children, and if I told you what I really thought they tell their children, it would indeed be a political statement by me, so I will refrain.

Carroll opened the blog with telling a bit about what she was doing that day. Many others did the same, as did I.

Don’t take advantage of this horrible event to present your political view as a commeration and then go and tell someone else they can’t say what thoughts 9/11 evokes in them.

I dare you in any stretch of the imagination to show any proof that I was presenting my political views in my statement of earlier today. I told what I did that day, I did NOT say what thoughts were evoked in my mind that day. I suspect you really wouldn’t want to hear them.

These were my words earlier today:

*By Wayne

September 11, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this*

On 9-11-01, I was at work. I heard about the tragic events, followed it on the radio, then went home mid-day, so I could be there when my children came home from school, so I could try as best I could to explain why some people do the things they do…….

OK, smart guy, exactly where in that statement did I *present my political view”?

Again, come out from under the covers and show your true (semi anonymous) self. Otherwise, I will just mark your statements up to being cowardly.

So, I guess it is OK to make a little politcal rant on the baseball blog, so long as your view is from the “correct” direction.

By Wayne

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

Carroll My 16 year old could eat the south end out of a northbound horse, and still not gain a pound. 6’3”, 130 lbs. I was the same way, way back when. Now, 100 pounds later, I wish I had Charlie’s metabolism and build!

:-)

brian Just from my perspective, KJ plays with emotion when he is going well. When things are in a funk, it seems to me that he is too laid reserved. Not really sure if I am correct, as my viewing is extremely limited. I have to go on a lot I hear.

Right/Wrong?

By kirknga

September 11, 2008 11:48 PM | Link to this

I think Kelly Johnson is scary at second, and not dependable at the plate. That said, I think on a budget conscious team, his salary is his best case for being retained.

I think when a player admits to only having one good month, that isn’t a player who should be untouchable. But that is not to say there is no good reason to keep him.

By Brian

September 12, 2008 12:01 AM | Link to this

Wayne- KJ does seem to get pouty to me, when he slumping at the plate. But he does play hard and he definetely wants to win as much as anyone, as far as I can tell.

By Wayne

September 12, 2008 12:04 AM | Link to this

kirknga Excellent points on KJ.

Last winter, we went in with a good idea that Renteria would be moved, and that we needed starting pitching help, bullpen help, utility infield help, and a stop gap for CF. There was much discussion as to which way to go, and Frank Wren for the most part, accomplished what he set out to do (Jurrjens, Glavine, Ohman, Infante, Anderson and Kotsay).

This winter, it is a whole new ballgame, with loads of possibilities. Nothing like the questions of last year. The Braves can go so many different directions.

It will be interesting, to say the least. As TP says, “The waiting is the hardest part!”

By ObiWanKobe

September 12, 2008 12:06 AM | Link to this

A song since DOB is not arourd…

“New York, New York”

Well, I shuffled through the city on the 4th of JulyI had a firecracker waiting to blow

Breakin’ like a rocket who makin’ its way To the cities of Mexico

Lived in an apartment out on Avenue AI had a tar-hut on the corner of 10th

Had myself a lover who was finer than gold

But I’ve broken up and busted up since

And love don’t play any games with me

Anymore like she did before

The world won’t wait, so I better shake

That thing right out there through the door

Hell, I still love you, New York

Found myself a picture that would fit in the folds

Of my wallet and it stayed pretty good

Still amazed I didn’t lose it on the roof of the place When I was drunk and I was thinking of you

Every day the children they were singing their tune

Out on the streets and you could hear from inside

Used to take the subway up to Houston and 3rd

I would wait for you and I’d try to hide

And love won’t play any games with me

Anymore if you don’t want it to

The world won’t wait and I watched you shake

But honey, I don’t blame you

Hell, I still love you, New York

Hell, I still love you, New York

New York

I remember Christmas in the blistering cold

In a church on the upper west side

Babe, I stood their singing, I was holding your arm

You were holding my trust like a child

Found a lot of trouble out on Avenue B

But I tried to keep the overhead low

Farewell to the city and the love of my life

At least we left before we had to go

And love won’t play any games with you

Anymore if you want ‘em to

So we better shake this old thing out the door

I’ll always be thinkin’ of you

I’ll always love you though New York

I’ll always love you though New York, New York, New York

By Ryan Adams, recorded 3 days before 9/11, in New York.

By Metropolitan Man

September 12, 2008 12:09 AM | Link to this

MutMan- Your Muts are UNDERACHEIVING despite there position. Think about this- with our injuries and Francoeur, the phillies having NO ONE outside of Hamels and maybe Moyer in there rotation, the Marlins having a payroll of 40-50 mill.- Do you really think you have that much to brag about?? With Santana, most analyst picked your Muts to run away with this division, yet your’re only a couple of games ahead of the Phils! YOU’RE TOUGH ON YOUR COMPUTER BLOGGING- YOU MUT LOVING LOSER, GET A LIFE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Some analyst had the braves winning the divison and going to the WS also, how is that working out for you in 08’. At least the philthies and the Marlins showed up this season for more than a couple of months. Last year happened and will never be forgotten, but a strong finish to the end this year and a playoff birth makes for a great ending.
Santana is doing fine, but its Pelfrey that should be mentioned in the same breath with Santnana, a break out season that was over due.

By Metropolitan Man

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

It never ceases to amaze me how METS fans jump on a BRAVES blog and rant about THEIR team. They really are the “amazin’s.” Have I ever thought how much fun it would be to raz METS fans on one of their blogs? Actually I have, but I don’t have the time. And it just ain’t that much fun. I’d rather deal with my own team’s foilibles and triumphs. Hey, “JOKER” explain please.

Try it Richbrave, it can expand your mind by not just reading all the rah, rah stuff about your team but also reading what peolpe who strongly dislike your team says. It doens’t change your affiliation one way or the other, it just makes you a more knowledgeable baseball fan. Learn your team and the teams they play, blog with other fans, meet new people, just don’t thinnk to hard about why peolpe branch out and mingle, you might hurt yourself.

By Mitchell

September 12, 2008 12:24 AM | Link to this

Hi Carroll, how’s it going?

By Wayne

September 12, 2008 12:25 AM | Link to this

MetMan: BTW, I love NYC. Been there twice and thoroughly enjoyed both visits.

Used to actually pull for the Mets when they were the underdogs. I knew the majority of the 69 Miracle Mets roster.

As for what happened to the Braves in ‘08, if you don’t know, you haven’t been paying attention (I know you do know). We had some bad luck, some bad years, and we sucked when it counted. Lots of excuses, but one reason: We didn’t have it this year!

Since the Braves and Mets have been in the same division, I have slowly become a Mets “disliker”, as hate is too strong.

You guys basically “sucked” last year, that is a given. We here in Braves nation enjoyed it immensly.

This year, your team is clicking along very well. Good luck to you and your team, but I do hope we kick your tails in the upcoming series. We probably won’t, but one can hope.

Again, enjoy the moment. It might be the first of many, but on the other hand, it could be fleeting. Who knows.

Thing is, we are all fans for our teams. I respect your posts, as you seem to be a decent person. A couple of your comrades come on this blog and do themselves no favors with their petty posts.

Again, good luck, but watch out. Kinda like the Chuck Norris thing: If you can’t see Chuck Norris, you may very well be dead in 15 seconds. (watch out for those Braves!)

:-)

By Brian

September 12, 2008 12:26 AM | Link to this

MutMan- I know Ken Rosenthal picked the Braves in spring training but who else outside of the Braves people? We gotta a little 3 game matchup coming, so watcha think? By the way, I would still take my chances on Jurrjens over Pelfrey.

By Wayne

September 12, 2008 12:28 AM | Link to this

MetMan: In all seriousness, give me your take on what you would do if you were the Braves GM?

BTW, which blog would you suggest for decent Mets interaction. Where do you reside when you are not here? Also, any Phillies blogs you would recommend?

By Wayne

September 12, 2008 12:31 AM | Link to this

Clemson Alums: (we can laugh at ourselves). What is a Clemson grad, wearing a suit, sitting in a tree? A Branch Manager!

Mitch: I don’t think she is still around….

By Metropolitan Man

September 12, 2008 12:32 AM | Link to this

RichBrave-The thing about Mets fans is that they always view their teams’ performance in terms of the Braves’ performance, whereas Braves fans view the Braves performance (or this season, the lack thereof) in terms of the Braves performance. Must be because Mets’ fans looked at the Braves’ behinds in the standings for so long. If the Mets finished ahead of us for a decade and a half (yes, I realize that’s a ridiculous concept), maybe we would feel the same way. Doubtful, but maybe.

The answer is yes, you would Lew. There is no doubt that not being able to beat a certain opponent can wear you down

By Metropolitan Man

September 12, 2008 12:33 AM | Link to this

For all you braves fans who want to see the braves sweep da METS, well you gotta get past Santana first. If Pedro gets past you with the junk he is throwing lately, then thats saying something about your lineup thats been hot latley. Then Opie will try and finish you off on Sunday. He had a horrible outing last time out, but he owns you so that should work out in his favor. I want another sweep but will take the eventual 2 out of 3. Smell that? Can you guys smell that? Something stinks around here, oh thats just the braves trying to play spoiler.

“We’re playing the spoiler,” Atlanta second baseman Kelly Johnson said.

My my have the mighty have fallen. Sure the METS haven’t won anythng yet, but on this blog, finishing ahead of the braves and winning the seaon series gives you some needed ammo in this divsion rivalry.

By underadifferentname

September 12, 2008 12:36 AM | Link to this

Wayne, there are two reasons why I did not post under my normal name. First, because I can and just for the simple pleasure of p*ng you off! I take great delight in that I got your dander up a bit as I find that it is not a rare occurrence that you interject your political and moral views on this blog….and you play the victim card very well so I thought I’d be kind and let you deal one more time.

The second reason is because it is a baseball blog and when you stick to baseball, you and I have had some great conversations and unlike you, I’m not going to tell you to go away because I don’t share your ideology.

And yes I said ideology as your comment was not as innocent as you profess. Like everyone else, I too remember that day and will as long as I live. But you went beyond the mere feelings, you went on to say that you knew who attacked us and you knew why. So how you could come to explain to anyone that day the who and why of the attack had to come to you via your ideology, because you certainly didn’t have enough facts to know what you claim you knew, when you claim to have known it.

And to claim that 9/11 is not inherently political is in itself an untruth and a poke in the eye to our men and women who are over in Iraq because people who shared your ideology sent and keep them there. 9/11 wasn’t “7 years ago” it is still ongoing.

I’ve lost a cousin, and a friend, with another friend who has some issues, thanks to people like you who love to romanticize war and make political statements then say they didn’t:

I don’t know what they tell their children, and if I told you what I really thought they tell their children, it would indeed be a political statement by me, so I will refrain.

Talk about cowardly! How about a total disregard for the humanity of others?

Sorry, but 9/11 is political, there is context to it, context I bet you forgot to mention in your “explanation”, but is clear as day in your answer about Iraqi parents and their children. If the next bomb come attached to an Iraqi instead of a bunch of Saudis then you and the rest of us might get that answer whether we care to comment or not!

I think it is important that everyone be heard about 9/11 because some are allowing events to take place that are going to get even more people killed.

Ok, that’s it. I’ve said my piece, bullies have to be confronted abroad and at home so thus my comments to you.

Say what you will, I won’t respond because I know I’m trying the patience of others.Wayne, you and I go back awhile we talk good baseball(as I do with others here)so we’ll be talking to each other again as we’ve always done before today. You’ll just never this was me,I’m ok with that, in fact, and I think that’s fantastic!

Go Braves!

By Metropolitan Man

September 12, 2008 12:43 AM | Link to this

That was a welcomed read there Wayne.

Every positvie needs a negative and these two teams do it for me unitl inter-league play starts. Then its the stankees. I ended up respecting the braves but they will always be the team I dislike and for all the reason you guys have stated. We can be bitter about the past, angry about missed opportunities, miffed about tough losses, but every year we all tune in again because this is baseball and we have teams to root for and against. The METS and philthies should seem simialr to you guys, but METS fans are really starting to dislike that philthies franchise as much as the braves lately.

By kirknga

September 12, 2008 12:43 AM | Link to this

Thanks Wayne, I just wonder with the youth of this team, if next season JF isn’t bask to “untouchable” status and we’ll be wondering what’s the matter with JJ?

Remember last year there were some who weren’t sold on McCann, excluding McFann of course.

Point being, keep KJ for reasons of payroll if you must, but bring in some known quantities and qualities so you don’t have to depend on so many players who may have 1-2 good months only.

By Mitchell

September 12, 2008 12:57 AM | Link to this

Okay, if we’re going to try and show respect for September 11th can we please not reference Alan Jackson’s “Where Were You?” song. Of all the works of art related to this day that it is easily the most trivial and insipid piece of emotional bankruptcy. For Alan Jackson to profit from a song so artless is truly sad.

Now that I’ve stepped down from my awesome horse I’d just like to say that the Braves are awesome. No wait, that’s not right.

The question is, why is it that the only month in the last two years that the Braves have played like a real team and won big games is September? A little late Bravos.

It was great to see Jurrjens get a win, especially in such a fashion. All we need now is a Steve Philips-type Braves homer like on Baseball Tonight to make a case for JJ as a Cy Young candidate. If he had any luck he would be. He could have 20 wins.

I still don’t get how this team has ended up so much worse than ‘07. Even in spite of the injuries to the starting rotation I didn’t have half the confidence in the pitching last year. Almost every night you feel like you got somebody going who can get a win.

I still think the ‘08 Braves are better than the ‘07 Braves. Am I crazy?

Yes.

By Metropolitan Man

September 12, 2008 12:59 AM | Link to this

If I’m Wren, here is what I do immediatley with the way things are going on in baseball right now. Frenchy would be on the block to see what he could garner (not much probalby at this currrent time). Chipper needs to go now and bring in some prospects like Anders always suggest. He could play 3 more years as a DH and fill-in 3b. Let Glavine go. Resign Hampton. I know but you guys suffered all those years on the bench with him and he knows he robbed you blind. Catapult that into a small 1 year, option for 2 contract. Move K. Jonhson back to the outfield and get you 1 bonafide slugger out there. If Frenchy stays, then let the young guys continue there seasoning. You guys have not done well the last couple years because you relied to heavy on the young while the METs relied to heavy on the old. Your success always had a balance and a mixture, the real old guys on your teams would be on their way out the door, not returning in the same role. Restock the bench with journey men, not your farm. You know K. Lofton is still sitting home, M. Piazza retired becasue of no contract, so did S. Green.
Jurrens is a keeper for sure, and possibly Parr (still early). Gonzalez can easily close so with Smoltz detemination, let him set up if healthy or ride into the sunset with Glavine and have them coach because they have plenty to offer the young guys.
So basically fix 1b, 2b, 3b??, one or two outfield positions, and go back to basics on pitching. Also I know most don’t want to hear this but a change of leadership might be in order to, can’t change the makeup and not the brain, could get the same results. My bill is in the mail.

By kirknga

September 12, 2008 1:01 AM | Link to this

Why is it that people believe in the Mets chances to advance with Reyes not hitting and with a proven closer out until 2010?

How does any team make it to and through the playoffs without it’s top tier closer?

By Mitchell

September 12, 2008 1:06 AM | Link to this

Oh, I’m hurt.

She’s gone.

Okay, Met Man. Please stop being so desperate. Enjoy your lead, you’re so obviously unsure of yourself.

We already beat Santana twice this year. Our bullpen was pretty much at its absolute worst the last time the Braves were at Shea. If the Braves were playing half as well as they are right now, we would have won the series. We’re not scared of you. You’re the one with something to lose. Not us.

I know you know you’re scared. Just pace yourself.

We’ll see what happens. We’re also still 7 and 5 so, let’s not forget that.

By geauxbraves2000

September 12, 2008 1:12 AM | Link to this

I’ve been on the trade JF bandwagon for a while, but with his stock so low it may be best to send him to the minor leagues until he can learn how to hit again. I wouldn’t want to see the Braves only get a fringe prospect for him, what would be the point in that?

Nice win tonight, great to see a series sweep, it’s been a while.

God Bless the families of all the victims of 9/11, you are all in my prayers. For all those that were on Flight 93, they are my heroes.

Nite all.

Geaux Braves 2009!!

By kirknga

September 12, 2008 1:12 AM | Link to this

Gotta love the get rid of all the veterans except for Hampton advice…lol!

By Metropolitan Man

September 12, 2008 1:13 AM | Link to this

Last year the only person hitting in Sept. was Wright. This year Delgado , Wright, Beltran, Easely, Tatais, Church, and even Snieder are hitting, so if Reyes hits thats a bonus at this point. We can win without Wagner because Ayala 7 for 8 in saves opportunities. A change of scenery did him well. Oh you don’t want Heilman, he has a bum knee and thats why he has been horrible this year. You guys won’t face him.

By uga-brave

September 12, 2008 1:14 AM | Link to this

francoeur,

is a stud.

uga says said it all along. uga said that blaine boyer, the the destroyer. is the cockiest man alive.

blaine the destroyer, speaks about himself in the third person.

FLANGE, got the the chance to play in a little golf thing with a couple of the guys.

FLANGE, i dont remember if you, old dog, remember TOMMY GREGG, BRAD CLONTZ,

either way we play and bet at RIVERMONT.

We drink at TJ’S on holcombe bridge.

either way flange,

GO FLANGE I KNOW YOU AND LEW ARE DAWGS,

LEW HAS YUDY’S

I HAVE 320 SOUTH LUMPKIN STREET. FLANGE EVER IN ATLANTA at tj’s tell mark eccelstone you know the willie plett and all of the great hockey flames.

flange at some point this beanie WELLS blows.

By Wayne

September 12, 2008 1:15 AM | Link to this

underadifferentname

My friend, may I call you that?? How can you know what are in my thoughts when I make a comment? You seem to think you know me. I am strong willed, and can be judgemental. I don’t take positions here until someone else interjects theirs, and to be honest, I have said NOTHING tonight that can be construed as not “caring” about Iraqi children, and I have tried to exercise restraint in posting my views today, as I know many have very tender and/or strong feelings about the events of 9/11.

Friend or not, I dare you to go back through all the blog archives and find where I interject my political views first. You know my politcal views, but you don’t know what is in my heart and mind. It is a dangerous road being a thought policeman.

Some of my dear friends disagree with my views. But, I try not to instigate this thing on a baseball blog. Tonight, I basically made a statement about leaving off the political rant, and from there, you have made a world of assumptions, about what you think I “think”.

You will never know what I told my three sons that day, and I dare say, you would be surprised if you did know. It was not what you think.

And, no, I am not pizzed off because of your views, I am pizzed off because you and others (if there are others, it is hard to tell) think you can just arbitrarily add your views to this baseball blog whenever you want.

That is what you’re doing isn’t it? By going anonymous and by supporting a point that was made by another “screen name”.

Please stop trying to read between the lines, as sometimes, you might not be reading it correctly.

Another point. I made a large mistake in letting others get me all worked up a while back, then I went out and made some stupid statements about leaving the blog.

A friend talked me into looking at the error of my ways. I will not make that fool-hardy mistake again. No more “Wayne is going away crap!” If I go away again, I just do it, and don’t announce it. But to be honest, I don’t know where I could go to get my “Braves fix”.

So, underadifferentname, if indeed we are friends, we can disagree without you hiding from me. What are you afraid of? I really can’t “come through the keyboard” and punch you in the nose, nor would I want to. We had enough of that macho crap from a previously departed blogger.

If we are going to be friends, let’s not hide from each other.

And lastly, am I really a bully, because I would ask other bloggers to leave off the political rant? Really? Opinionated, strong willed, but a bully?

I too think it is ok that we can disagree and still be friends, I just regret that you think I can’t handle it if you tell me who you are.

Come on, come on out of the “anonymous blogger” closet!

By BravesFan79

September 12, 2008 1:27 AM | Link to this

Metro man…. terrible advice man…no wonder the mets have sucked since around 1988….oyea and Smoltz in yalls pen would be your best reliever this season!…so why u think hes over the hill?? yet ud want Hampton to come back!?? Screw that…. go sign with your old team the Muts…we dont want ya…

And man cant the Braves DO ANYTHING right this season?? We sweep the rockies??

So not only will we miss the playoffs but now we might go on a winning streak and not even get a top 10 draft pick!??
WTF!!
The only thing positive from this season is a top 5 draft pick! But hey lets do like some of you fools wish and win em all!

ill be pulling hard for the Braves everygame next year…but for now… LOOSE BRAVES LOOSE!!

By Wayne

September 12, 2008 1:29 AM | Link to this

uga: watch out for them Tigers! :-)

Are we OK with Frenchy tonight?

MetMan While I too on occasion have thought about trading Chipper, I really don’t see that happening. I know Hank Aaron and Willie Mays were traded, but they were send packing after they lost it, for the most part. It would be a bit like trading Cal Ripken. Could it happen, sure. Will it, nah. Good points otherwise.

This upcoming Mets series will be fun, for sure.

underadifferentname Come on man, I have thick skin. I can handle it. (I know your not McFann, as she’s gone to bed. Your not Lew, as he dislikes anonymous bloggers as do I. Can’t be uga-brave, as you seem too coherent this late at night, and your posts are so long.)

Gotta be one of my long posting friends….

:-)

By Wayne

September 12, 2008 1:34 AM | Link to this

I am in Albuquerque this week. Today I made a sales call at a location where T.Boone Pickens visited the day before! Wow! Something about his windmill power project. Wouldn’t that have been cool to have TBP take me out for some BBQ for lunch! A fella can dream….

By uga-brave

September 12, 2008 1:37 AM | Link to this

flange,

my man i am leaving the southern thing at your feet.

you said you have been to augusta. you said that you are a old southern guy.

i trust you my man. flange, i hope is a defender of us southern boy’s.

flange, GO DAWGS i am going to COLUMBIA.

AND I AM GOING TO TEMPE.

FLANGE MY BROTHER THE THE RIDE IS HALF THE FUN.

By Mitchell

September 12, 2008 1:38 AM | Link to this

Metropolitan Man, one last thing…

Chipper Jones named his son after your lousy stadium. Little Shea will be making his first trip to New York to watch his dad play for the last time at the park that bears his name, before they mercifully tear it to the ground.

Chipper is 11 for his last 16 and has just overtaken Albert Pujols for the batting title. I have a feeling our boy is going to go out with a bang.

And for the record, I should really be asleep right now but I always end up checking out the blog even when I don’t really want to, and at the moment I’m wishing I could just wrap it up and get the hell out of here.

You probably need to get some personal help for loitering around like you do, and I think you know it.

And for my money, the Beatles are still the best thing that ever happened in Shea Stadium.

By Wayne

September 12, 2008 1:39 AM | Link to this

Bravesfan79 I woulda never had you pinned as one of those “let’s lose on purpose” guys.

I say, kick some tail in ‘08, to go into the winter with something to talk about. Let’s see what a few of these guys can do. Heck, I would even drop a bunch of these relievers who will not be here next year, and bring up Medlen and Hanson. (I know there are roster ramifications on doing that, but I would still love to see it!)

Come on man!

By Wayne

September 12, 2008 1:41 AM | Link to this

uga: no offense intended on that coherent statement!

:-)

By uga-brave

September 12, 2008 1:53 AM | Link to this

WAYNE FROM UTAH,

i hope that is you brother.

By Wayne

September 12, 2008 2:03 AM | Link to this

Yes, my friend it is me. It is symbolism that I only use “Wayne” from now on, as I have been brought down from my high perches by many a random blogger!

:-)

Hope all is well! Although I have never been a ‘dawg fan, I have not really cared one way or the other. So, I am happy for you ‘dawgs for your new found fame and glory.

(watch out for them Tigers!)

By uga-brave

September 12, 2008 2:04 AM | Link to this

wayne in utah,

your comments are always welcomed.

i miss your late night banter.

PLEASE HANG AROUND.

if you dont you will break mcFAAN’S HEART.

wayne in utah has more to say than most of you idtots.

By uga-brave

September 12, 2008 2:20 AM | Link to this

scary part flange, my old college roomate FEILDING DILLARD 111, IS A UPS PILOT.

TRIPLLE STICKS DILLARD IS A PILOT.

WE WERE BOTH ROTC.

AINT GONNA SAY What i did. ,the .

By Wayne

September 12, 2008 2:23 AM | Link to this

uga: How am I gonna break McFann’s heart. Dude, she is off in dream land, having dreams about Baby Huey McCann hitting for the cycle, and stealing 3 more bases along the way!

Also, you don’t need to suck up, as I too consider you a friend. :-)

Man, I am really torn on what to do with Frenchy. If he were 27-28, and had a longer track record, it would be easier to decide whether to trade him or keep him.

A decent armed right fielder who hits 275-290, with 20-30 dingers and 90-100 RBI’s would be more than acceptable. Remember in previous years when he was the clutch guy on the team. One of the better averages with men on.

Is this year an aberration or a sign of things to come?

I guess, if I were Frank Wren, I would let the word get out that he could be had, then weigh the offers. If they were too low, then keep him.

I am also a patient fan, who would be more than willing to have a goal to be a 500 team next year, and use 2009 to develop some players and prep for 2010 and the subsequent 5-10 years. I know this is not the “Braves” way though.

I just know that I will really be bummed if one of my favorite prospects are dealt. I am torn on the idea of using 1-2 top prospects for a Roy Halladay or a Jake Peavy.

BTW, what is an idtots?

(sorry, couldn’t resist!)

:-)

By Wayne

September 12, 2008 2:42 AM | Link to this

uga: I wouldn’t have guessed you for a ROTTSY. My first two sons were ROTC in HS. Son #2 is serving with the USAF in Germany. #1 gave the Army a try, but his back crapped out on him, and he was discharged early on. I think the military is good for a young man. #3 says he is going into the USAF after college….we’ll see.

Gotta run and try to get a few hours of shut-eye.

take care, my friend….

By uga-brave

September 12, 2008 2:48 AM | Link to this

wayne our good friend is back,

i mean that guys like BRAVEHEART, SCOOTS , who i think is somewhat of a poet welcome you back.

cant speak for them, but i you my my friend i miss you, please keep hanging around. this place will miss you wayne.

wayne, you have a ton to say, dont quit.

By nolie

September 12, 2008 2:53 AM | Link to this

nolie:

Wasn’t “THE VIRGINIAN” in that era alsoRich

a couple years later I think. seems like I first remember it my senior year in HS which would have been fall of ‘62.Most of the ones I mentioned started in the 50s. I liked the Virginian, and the kinda western/comedy Laredo which became a spin-off a few years later. Now days you have to search high & low for a new western on TV> The mini Comanche Moon which is a prequel to Lonesome Dove is now out on DVD. It’s pretty decent, though not anywhere near as good as the Dove.

By uga-brave

September 12, 2008 3:18 AM | Link to this

yeah wayne uga was a ROTC pilot.

flew united expres, flew in and out of casper wyomng.

uga believe it or not flew twin engines.

flew in and out of casper, and las vegas.

my best friend, lands big jets. does it for UPS.

WE WERE BOTH ROTC.

UNITED EXPRESS, BOTH DID IT.

IF YOU WANT TO MEET US WE WILL BE AT LOCCOS ON SATURDAY,

it will be a dawgs thing. i wellcome you guys to find us.

i am 6’4 pete is 6’2 we would not hard to find.

By uga-brave

September 12, 2008 3:39 AM | Link to this

on saturday just yell uga-brave and i will buy you a drink. guarnatee. . i will be the big idiot.

pete and i will be the most obnixious, idiots there.

GO DAWGS.

By Metropolitan Man

September 12, 2008 5:53 AM | Link to this

Anybody know the all time record at Shea in braves vs METS. I’m usualy on the money with searches like this but cant seem to find a site dedicated to this. I’m just curious to what the win loss is at Shea, we know the record at Turner is clearly in the braves favor.

By George

September 12, 2008 6:49 AM | Link to this

WHEN ARE PEOPLE IN THE BRAVES ORGANIZATION GOING TO REALIZE ROGER MCDOWELL IS NOT A PITCHING COACH, HIS STYLE LOST US ANOTHER PITCHER IN MORTON AGAIN THIS WEEK.

By richbrave

September 12, 2008 8:42 AM | Link to this

Don’t I remember Brother DAVE mentioning on a couple of post-ups during ST about how ripped FRANCOUER was.? Did he follow a trainer’s advice and develop the muscles best suited to his swing, or just flail away at the total body thing.? Maybe he needs to alter the workout to give him more flexibility. SOMETHING besides his head has changed dramatically.

By Shaun

September 12, 2008 8:53 AM | Link to this

George, I suppose Leo Mazzone wasn’t a pitching coach because of Steve Avery’s injuries?

By nolie

September 12, 2008 8:57 AM | Link to this

Anybody know the all time record at Shea in BRAVES vs mets.MetroMan

From 91-07 the Braves were 68-57 at Shea. I’m guessing b4 that they were under .500 as most teams are on the road.

By DAP

September 12, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this

richbrave joe and boog have commented on the tv broadcast that jeff says it was a mistake to put on the muscle. he has trimmed down since, and i think he will be trimmed down even more for spring training.

By JC from UT

September 12, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this

I know this is a bit off subject, but has anyone heard anything about Rodrigo Lopez? Has he pitched at all in the minors since he was signed and is there any hope that he could contribute to the rotation next season?

By Shaun

September 12, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

Anybody see this about baseball coming from England.

I just don’t think it’s as big a story as it may seem. It’s pretty much accepted that baseball evolved from British bat-and-ball games like rounders and cricket. It’s seems probable that some form of baseball existed long before anyone wrote about it. And English base ball may have been very different from American baseball.

Still, it is kind of interesting to discover references to baseball or base ball and to possibly uncover how the game evolved.

By DAP

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

would anybody on the blog want to take a chance on josh willingham from the marlins if they decided to trade him?

he seems to be injury prone, i think his back acts up, but hes got some power.

By McFann ;Ô;

September 12, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

Wayne, Brian, AdirondackDave—

Thanks! Yeah, I don’t pay attention to the SmartyArty dude. He prob’ly was just scanning the blog for the first time and thought, “Dude, this McFann person is everywhere!” And then felt he had to make a smart remark. No harm done. Hey, I am who I am—and I talk a LOT! Just very passionate about my Braves. If he has a problem with it, tough beens.

Wayne—

Grove finished the night 0-3 with a walk and a run scored, lowering his AVG to .288. Meanwhile, BH went 1-2 with 2 walks, an RBI, and 2 runs scored, and AVG went up to .297! Things are lookin’ good right now!

Actually, I did have a dream with McCann—only he wasn’t hitting for the cycle, he was driving in the winning run against the Mets! It was fun!

; ) But I’d still be sad if you left for good!

And you’re right. underadifferentname was not me.

By McFann ;Ô;

September 12, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this

Bobby Fleet—

The Malcolm Meriweather episode is funny! Don’t recall the one with Otis on the cow…

Glad to see the Braves hitting now. But yeah, woulda liked this early on, too.

By Lew

September 12, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this

UGABrave-3 and 0 this Saturday. Go Dawgs!!!!!

MetrDude-If you seriously believe that Kenny Lofton, Mike Piazza, and Mike Hampton is the way the Braves should go for 09, then it’s no wonder the Mets have sucked for so many years. That’s exactly what the Mets’ brass has done for years and where, exactly, has it gotten them? Can you say Mo Vaughan or Jeromy Burnitz-maybe Moises Alou and El Duque?

Yeah-I’d hire you as GM. Sure I would.

By DAP

September 12, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this

the reds wouldnt be stupid enough to trade some pitching, would they? it seems like it might be a great chance to get arroyo or harang…but would they do it?

By Anders

September 12, 2008 11:07 AM | Link to this

Lew

Time to stop beating “The Mets Brass Sucks” drum. The Mets have been in first or very close to it for the last three years. They also made it to the WS in 2000 and were in the playoffs in ‘98. Yes, they made some horrible moves in the ‘90’s and paid for it but stop living in the past. You did nothing but bash Minaya and the Mets farm system all last off season and yet with all the injuries they had this year they’re still in first place. Apparently Minaya had enough in the system to plug the holes. I’m not saying the Mets had it as tough as the Braves this year but it hasn’t been a cake walk. Well over a 1000 man games lost.

I’m not defending Metro man’s suggestions by any means as they make no sense to me, but for you to continually trash Minaya and the Mets farm system as you have in the past has as much credibility as Metromans suggestions.

By Lew

September 12, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this

RichBrave-According to the Braves’ announcers, Frenchy has taken off 22 pounds of the weight he put on over the winter. He was trying to get his power back, so he bulked up in the upper body. Good reasoning, but it destryed his flexibility and we saw how slow that extra weight made him. He’s working on it.

Saw a great movie last night-The Illusionist-with Edward Norton and Paul Giamatti. It’s been out for a while and on cable the last month or so, but I just got around to watching. It’s kind of what Chick Flicks SHOULD be (ie, one you can actually watch with your Lady, but still find interesting)-I’d liken it to Jane Austin meeting Kaiser Sose in 1890’s Vienna. Check it out. It has a great ending. Excellent story and Incredibly great acting.

By DAP

September 12, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this

i know that golfers tend to try to strengthen their core to help make their swing stronger…correct me if im wrong, but wouldnt it work similarly for baseball players? it seem like having big shoulders and biceps would be less effective than having a very strong core…but im not an athlete…

By Lew

September 12, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this

Anders-Kind of like it’s time to retire the “Glavine sucks and cost us the Division” talk?

Dude, I don’t know what you’d call the Mets’ track record throughout the 90’s and the 21st C., but with player pick ups like those I mentioned, I’d say that the Mets brass sucked. They bought and paid a whole lot of unrequited $$$$$ to an increasingly dismal group of has beens and used to be’s . No way you could possibly spin it Anders. The Mets’ brass has a dismal track record and now Metro Dude wants us to do the same thing? Whatever. Keep up with that wishful thinking.

One Division and one Wild Card since the late 80’s? Wow. What a record-well worthy of emulation. Right? Maybe WE should go sign Moises Alou and then wonder why he’s on the DL again.

By Lew

September 12, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this

Anders-Come back and tell me how great your farm system is when y’all actually build a dynasty using said Farm System. Reyes (he of the .335 career OBP and lack of success in the stretch run when he’s really been needed), Wright and a small group of rookies who have had what? A month and a half of success? Wow. I’m underwhelmed.

Come back and tell me how great a job Omar did with his masterful moves when the Mets actually win something. Being in first place (by the slimmest of margins, no less) with three weeks of play left is not an accomplishment. Winning the Division MIGHT be. Winning a playoff series (which you’ve done all of three times since the late 80’s) MIGHT be. But wait. You haven’t done that with this team yet, have you?

Never in my life have I heard as much chest thumping from so large a group of the most bitter, bent, warped and frustrated group of fans in the NL (don’t hear Cub’s fans b!tching this much and they haven’t won in a 100 years) than we hear on a BRAVES’ blog from Mets partisans. It’s high time y’all actually waited and won SOMETHING before you come hear and brag. Sounds like nothing else but a weird form of Penis Envy to the Braves’ faithful. Time to judge the Mets in terms of the Mets-NOT in terms of the Braves success or lack thereof.

By Mitchell

September 12, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this

I have to say, I had a minor surgical procedure done on Monday and I’ve been home all week.

I honestly haven’t even left the house since Monday morning so I hate to be like this but… what the hell are you guys doing on here at 11:30 on a Friday morning?

By Braveheart

September 12, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this

i know that golfers tend to try to strengthen their core to help make their swing stronger…correct me if im wrong, but wouldnt it work similarly for baseball players? it seem like having big shoulders and biceps would be less effective than having a very strong core…but im not an athlete

As my college coach once screamed at me when I was suffering control issues out on the mound, “It’s ‘cause you got no a@@!”

He believed that mechanical control over most things in every sport was related to how tight and strong your core was.

By Steve from OH

September 12, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this

Braveheart, DAP, yes this is especially true for pitchers (and, of course, leg strength). Actually, if you’ve got a young pitcher and want to find him a good workout program, try Fit to Pitch by Tom House. Great book.

But yeah, if you’re a golfer, having giant pecs and biceps really won’t help too much.

By Thrillhouse44

September 12, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this

Good points, Braveheart and DAP. Seems Francoeur should have focused on legs, abs, and back. Regarding biceps: the curls get the girls, but have little other benefits.

By Lew

September 12, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this

Mitchell-I don’t know about Anders, but I am self employed and work at home (usually until about 1 in the morning). Sorry to hear of your need for minor surgery, but who exactly, are you to judge anyone?

By Wayne

September 12, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this

WW and now, 35 years later, I am wondering, where did this big azz come from!

By Mitchell

September 12, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this

I’m not judging Lew.

I take it back. I broke the fourth wall, and now I have returned… to the three walls.

Go Braves!

By Wayne

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

Anybody looking for a great place to retire, check out Albuquerque. Elevation is 5300+ depending on where you are in the city. Temperature climate, minimal snow in the winter, and decent in the summer due to the elevation.

The best reason: the Mexican food is fantastic! About 190 miles north of Hatch, the chile capital of the world.

Check it out.

By Anders

September 12, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this

Lew

Funny you should mention the “Glavine” thing. Not sure if you heard Peter Gammons on ESPN this morning when asked what’s different about the Mets this year? Gammons replied, “They now have a real number one ace pitcher who can stop the bleeding if necessary or as in this case lead the staff in overall performance. That’s the main thing they lacked last September”

Sounds like I’m not the only one who thought this and by the way this is still relevant to talk about - especially right now.

And please stop pointing out Moises Alou as your poster boy for bad moves by the Mets brass and conveniently forget Beltran, Delgado, Wagner and Pedro as purchases as well which have worked out fine. They also traded for Santana, Maine, Perez, Schneider and Church using in many cases pieces from their “abysmal” farm system. Oh yeah about that farm system, Wright, Reyes, Pelfrey, Murphy and Evans all came from that system and have been key contributors this season. And they still have the highly rated Fernando Martinez down there.

It’s not wishfull thinking Lew when the results are what they’ve been the last few years for the Mets.That’s factual. Wishfull thinking is when you’re out of the race by the 4th of July go into a complete free fall and you try and convince yourself that by this time next year you’ll be a contender again.

The irony in all this Lew is that almost everything you predicted for the Mets, old players breaking down, over worked bullpen inploding and young players not performing up to expectations actually happened to your team. You were right the other day when you told me that you didn’t give a crap about the Mets right now because the Braves have their own problems to worry about. This is one thing we both agree on.

By David O'Brien

September 12, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this

Just got to my NY hotel. Getting to work here after I get something to eat. Should have a new blog up before I head to ballpark in a couple hours.

By DAP

September 12, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this

anders no your not the only one who thought you needed an ace. everyone did. yet another reason your managment is stupid. signing a past his prime glavine to be your ace. whoops!

by the way, you still havent won the division, so hang on. and, the last time you won, glavine was your best pitcher. go figure.

By DAP

September 12, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

oh, by the way anders, 2006, when glavine was your best pitcher, thats was the same year you signed a past his prime perdro martinez to be your ace, right? drat! foiled again!

By Will Ohman isn't a Type B free agent

September 12, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this

Has this been addressed? What a joke?!?!?! We don’t trade Ohman and now we get crap!!!

Great job Frank Wren, you blew it!!!

By David O'Brien

September 12, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this

You STILL talking about Glavine and the Mets? Wow. A year and two surgeries (elbow and shoulder) later, still talking about him with his previous team….

By David O'Brien

September 12, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this

Lew: You’re right about The Illusionist. Loved that movie.

Can’t wait to see the new Coen Bros. movie, Burn After Reading. Started today. Hope to see it Monday.

By STRETCH

September 12, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this

This from a writer at AJC:

“Since the Braves traded Mark Kotsay on Aug. 27, they’ve had a look at Anderson in center field most every day. He made his 12th start in 15 games Thursday night.”

“He has responded by hitting .299 through 24 games, with 12 runs, six extra-base hits, six RBIs and six stolen bases. He has shown what his speed can provide on the basepaths as well as in the outfield, where he made a great catch against the fence Wednesday night to rob Jeff Baker of extra bases.”

Typical management over the past couple years….Way to go Wren and gang!!

By Steve from OH

September 12, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this

Yes, how DARE Frank Wren not trade Will Ohman! I would much rather have a fringe prospect instead of trying to re-sign a quality left-handed reliever.

Good God, if some people on this blog were the GM, we’d have Infante starting at short, Prado at third, Lilli at second, Blanco in left, and about 5 home runs all season. Not to mention a mid-rotation “prospect” in A-ball instead of a major-league quality reliever. But we would TOTALLY be wearing out that right-center field grass! That’s gotta count for, like, 3 runs every time, right? Oh, wait…..

By mbatl

September 12, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

Steve from OH, regarding Ohman… all reports were that the Braves declined trade offers (or at least discussions) from about 10 teams, with the logic that none of the offers were greater than what we’d get in compensation if he walked. (according to Buster Olney and other sources). Now it appears we’ll get nothing if he walks (though that’s not official yet).

Braves can offer Ohman arbitration and hope he’ll accept, but not likely. So, seems to me, holding him was smart only if we are committed to re-signing him.

With Soriano making $6+ mil, and Gonzo probably about $4 mil (I’m guessing), plus Smoltz probably in the ‘pen at several mil, it would be uncharacteristic for the Braves to take on another substantial contract for a reliever… but we’ll see. I can’t ever remember us devoting that much payroll to the bullpen.

I’m not a basher of Wren/Cox, etc… so I’ll hope this works out in our favor. It’d be great to have 2 solid, proven lefties in the pen starting out in ‘09.

By Efrim

September 12, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

Anders

I think the Mets have done a great job, but this is a Braves blog man. You can’t expect people to lay down and ask for Mets fans to walk all over them. What would you have passionate Braves fans say? I suppose they fair and give the Mets their due, but dude, they haven’t won anything yet. Not a thing. I really don’t even think the Mets winning the division and then getting bounced in the first round is something worth bragging about. I really don’t. They have the third highest payroll in baseball and the highest one in the NL. They should be where they are. Just my opinion.

Steve from OH

I agree with mostly everything you say, actually this is the first time I have disagreed with anything you have said, but anyhow, Ohman probably isn’t resigning with this team. When the trade wasn’t made, the thought was that we weren’t offered anything worth a supp. pick. I mean, we did take Brett Devall with our supp. pick from Mahay. I’m not saying the kid is going to be Clayton Kershaw, but he is still a decent prospect, at least from what I have heard. I don’t think not trading Ohman will bring this franchise down though. Not enough to make a real stink about it. And I didn’t think that type A/B stuff was figured until after the season. Anyway, I know we have money to spend, but I would rather not spend 3 years and say, 12 million on Ohman. Plus, I think he may get more than that.

By Brian

September 12, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this

Speaking of FW, when did JS ever rob another team like FW did with Jurrjens/Hernandez? Don’t forget J.Anderson,Ohman,Infante. That’s why I think this will be an awesome offseason! Although, if I understood correctly, Chip Carey was saying this team is going to rebuild instead of retooling after Hudson’s injury. DOB, can you help me out?

By Shaun

September 12, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this

Here is an article on A-Rod’s clutch hitting.

By Anders

September 12, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

DOB

You STILL talking about Glavine and the Mets? Wow. A year and two surgeries (elbow and shoulder) later, still talking about him with his previous team….

Are you talking to me or Peter Gammons?

Now, should the Mets lose 2 or 3 games in a row can I expect you won’t mention their historic collapse? You know, being it was last year and all.

Hey, don’t you have a hot train to catch to pass by all those chop shops and get to that disgusting labyrinth known as Shea?

As for The Illusionist, is that the story of how Braves management trys to appear to be spending what it takes to compete while actually reducing payroll?

By Flavor of the Week

September 12, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

KJ will cool, then we’ll all talk about Prado again.

This is how it’s worked with KJ in the last 2 years. He’ll tease us, make the Braves commit for 2009, then hit .237 or fewer for 4 out of the 6 months.

Shame.

By Kentavo

September 12, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

What’s the difference between rebuilding and retooling?

By Deep Throat

September 12, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this

Flavor of the Week: that is bologna.

No one will talk about Prado again (aside from maybe his number one fan: ‘Bobby’s Cox’) because his flavor of the month status is over. He is has done NOTHING in his career outside of August of the season. Nothing before that. Nothing in 2006 or 2007 when he was up here. Nothing in the minors. Prado’s resume is about 90 good at-bats in August (games that were meaningless too like these September games). No one in their right mind thinks he is a viable everyday option at second base to start the 2009 season.

At the end of the season, Kelly Johnson will have the second most extra-base hits on this team, second behind only Brian McCann. He’ll almost certainly finish 4th out of 16 NL second basemen in OPS. Yeah, he is the problem….

By Brian

September 12, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

Kentavo- If you’re asking me it means, in our case, trading a Chipper Jones for some prospects that can have an impact in a couple of years. Retooling would be trading ML players and some minors for a Roy Halladay,etc. Maybe not to that extreme(Chipper) but you get the point.

By Fanders

September 12, 2008 2:52 PM | Link to this

What’s the difference between rebuilding and retooling?

Ask Anders. Anders knows all.

By David O'Brien

September 12, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this

NEW BLOG should be up in a New York minute (what a dumb phrase that is, by the way)

By Greg in TN

September 12, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

Afternoon lads and lasses…

Thanks for the reflection Carroll. There has been much that has been shared by the denizens already on that sad day in our history. Yesterday was certainly a poignant day in these parts.

David-ATL14: Good to hear you’re back from Alaska. I’ve been busy with travel and work here. Breakdowns in the offensive line, in special teams and the secondary were tough to watch. We’ll see what kind of progress we see next week to be sure.

Nice sweep at the hands of the suddenly reeling Colorado Rockies at the intersection of Hank Aaron Drive and Ralph David Abernathy. Have to say that KJ is hitting at a torrid pace of late. He has a 10 game hitting streak which has seen his BA rise from .263 to .280.

The Offensive Assassin sits two percentage points above Sir Albert of Santo Domingo going into Chipper’s last trip to a ballpark where he’s had a bit of success at in the past while Pujols and the Cards spend the weekend in the Steel City against a Pirates staff that sits dead last in the league in team ERA and is 14th in number of homers allowed. As N8 would say, yikes.

The bearded icon got a good checkup from Dr. Andrews, which is good news to this denizen, however C-Mo received a setback with pain in his shoulder blade, which is disappointing.

Have to say I’m impressed with the two starts from James Parr and particularly impressed with last night’s performance from Jorge Julio. The guy obviously had a bad outing for the Indians against Texas on May 23rd (5 ERs in 1.2 innings is bad anyway one looks at it), but last night he was flat out dealing.

By Steve from OH

September 12, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this

I don’t think not trading Ohman will bring this franchise down though. Not enough to make a real stink about it.

That’s the point I was trying to get at (as always, Efrim is a bit more eloquent than myself, lol). And besides, if the compensation we were going to get was less than the value of a supplemental 1st rounder, then why bother trading him? I mean, our farm is deep enough to absorb the impact of keeping a lefty reliever instead of adding another Ryne Reynoso or Jeff Lyman (which is probably the type of prospect that was offered, IMO). Had Frank Wren and crew thought that the prospects offered were worth it, they would have made the deal. By keeping him, my guess is that whatever was offered was lesser in value than another half season of Ohman and a chance at him being a Type B or re-signing with us. Frank didn’t just keep him to keep him.

And Efrim, I think the Elias rankings are released after the season, but some dude on the internets claimed to have “reverse engineered” the formula, giving a guess at who’s who. It’s probably quite accurate, but I don’t think anything’s set in stone yet. This guy’s projection had him “just missing” Type B anyway, so if there is a slight variation in Elias’ formula, he may just sneak in. But I’d guess that the front offices have at least some idea of what goes into the formula, so, like I said earlier, Frank didn’t just do this to do it. There was a reason for it.

And hey, if it was a gamble, and it failed, then we’re not out much, are we?

By richbrave

September 12, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this

LEW:

Bought the “ILLUSIONIST” on DVD for $6.00 sometime about eighteen months ago. Never heard of it, but figured anything with EDWARD NORTON couldn’t be all bad. As you said it was all good. Great flick.

By eulmnotyf freadkzt

September 28, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this

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