Braves

By bruce

September 19, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this

first?

By N Nine

September 19, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this

Yes!! Chipper is ready after last year’s last min. heartbreak. Go chipper!!!!!!

By N Nine

September 19, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this

DOB Pujols 1-2 (so far) .345…so 10 point lead..

By Billy

September 19, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this

I have lost sleep and have had dreams about being the 7th person posting. Hopefully today is my day and I am the 7th poster.

By DAP

September 19, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this

shaun right but Dejesus is still not a great power hitter just because he’s better than what the Braves have.

not only did i not assert that, but nobody did. YOU said the braves already had good hitters with no power that play the outfield. that isnt true.

braveheart thanks for the article, i dont think that the guy split up players based on their skill set, meaning guys like mags could have much more longevity than the “average” mlb player. i think mags is going to be good as long as he is well enough to play, and if he isnt well enough to play, we wouldnt have to pay him. please trade for magglio ordonez, braves!

By bruce

September 19, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this

David: to what extent do you think the early hot streak for Chipper was related to facing so many left handed starters? I think I recall a long line of lefties to start the season… thanks Bruce

By N Nine

September 19, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this

Albert Pujols Update:

now 1-3 .354….Chipper has 11 point lead now!

DOB funny you inserted where chipper went to high school! Guess you read last night’s fiasco from Lou Vales !

By McFann Ô

September 19, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

N Nine re your post to me on the last blog—

Yeah, I’m sure he’ll be fine. Good point about them taking it easy. Never thought of it that way.

I hope 3BMac goes on a tear…starting tonight. Hey, it’s been a long time since I saw him, live, in person have a good night at the plate! (But I don’t wanna be selfish, here. I’m just hopin’ for a win.)

Bruce @ 3:09—

Congratulations!

OK, now I really gotta get going…I think. I was an hour ahead of myself the last time I said that. Just looked at the clock wrong, I guess.

So I might be back tonight, but I might not be. Anyway, here’s to a good game…

By ncscoots

September 19, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

Ordonez may be slightly older than Burrell (at 32, I think) and Dunn (at 30), but he does have a superior skill set. Even with age erosion, doesn’t Ordonez at three years seem a better bet than Burrell or Dunn at five years? The annual money is probably a wash for the three (and the Braves would have spent more for Teixeira, anyway).

And the biggest player the Braves can provide to the Tigers is named “Payroll Relief”. You do not send three top 10 prospects to a team looking to shed salary, so an Ordonez trade should be player-cheap. I don’t follow the Tigers, so I don’t know what they consider to be their window of contention, or what needs they have on the farm. All factors in what they would accept in a trade…but I suspect their sights would be set a little lower than expected for a player of Ordonez’ caliber.

By nfieldr

September 19, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

Wow… Cards are up 8-0 over Cubs in the 4th. Looks like Pujols could get a lot of AB’s today.

By Brent S.

September 19, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this

The Shield is one of my favorite shows. Figured you’d like it, David.

I got an early copy of the new Kings of Leon album. If you liked the new My Morning Jacket than you will enjoy the latest from KOL. Not as good as MMJ, but solid.

By Brian

September 19, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this

Too long in the wasteland sounds like my alcoholic brother in SC. That boy done lost his mind!

By mbatl

September 19, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this

DAP, all Ordonez has to do is play about 130 games next year, or get about 500 PA’s, and his contract is guaranteed for 2010 and 2011. If he gets hurt next year, before about late August, we’d have an out, but beyond that, the contract is guaranteed.

You make it sound like we could “cut” him if he ever got injured. Really, if he stays healthy the first 2/3 of next year, his contract is guaranteed for the following 2 years. (at least that’s how I read it).

If he plays pretty much full time next year, it’s a 3-year deal for $51 mil - so that’s how we should look at it.

All that said, I do agree that he’s a good option, as long as we don’t give up any top young talent in the deal.

By Efrim

September 19, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this

NcScoots

I agree. Payroll relief is the reason that Ordonez is even talked about. They aren’t trading Granderson or Cabrera. Willis, Roberstson, or Sheffield couldn’t be traded even if they ate all of their salary. So it makes a lot of sense to trade Ordonez. They really need to cut payroll and their is an easy way to do it, get rid of 18 million that is owed to Ordonez. If they are cutting payroll, than they obviously aren’t looking to go for it and win a World Series. Braves could really use a hitter like Ordonez in the cleanup spot.

By Dan

September 19, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this

Agreed. Finally the end of this season is upon us. What is important now is our projected draft pick in next year’s draft.

My math has the Braves picking 6th. Maybe someone drops to us (because of signability concerns) that will help sooner rather than later. The Braves have not picked this high in a while, so they need to make a good choice here.

More importantly, the Braves are almost assured of a protected first round pick if we sign a free agent (which we are almost assured of doing).

Will the Braves strategy be to sign a number of free agents since their first round pick is not in jeopardy?

By Jersey Gil

September 19, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this

DOB As a Good Braves Fan tell Jason he will not be alone. I have ticket for the Series.Telling to look for a odd couple , My Wife wearing Phillis gear and Myself with the Braves.

GO BRAVES

By JD

September 19, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this

I’m not sure how many of you have seen this, but this is perhaps one of the funniest videos I have ever seen. It involves a certain Royals hall of famer and a certain habit he has. The seriousness of his demeanor is unbelievable.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wUYHNiycBNY

By the way, not quite appropriate for work. I would turn the volume down if you do.

By David O'Brien

September 19, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

I had typo in blog — not a nine-point lead for Chipper, but 11-point lead entering today, .365-.354.

By David O'Brien

September 19, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this

OK, gotta go downstairs to the clubhouse, see if I can find a blue-blooded alum of the Bolles School (damn, that was some insightful commentary from Vales last night).

By DAP

September 19, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this

mbatl thats close but that not exactly right, i dont think. the contract is garunteed year by year based on PA and games started either the last year, or the last two years. in 2009 hed have to play about 135 games or have about 500 PA to make his contract for 2010 garunteed. then, you have to figure it out again. to have his 2011 contract garunteed, he would either have to play 135 games or have 540 PA in 2010, or he would have to have played 270 games or 1080 PA in the previous 2 years.

does that make sense? so the years are garunteed on a year by year basis, instead of the last two years being garunteed based on his 2009 performance.

so if we get him, and he just sucks, were screwed. but, if he gets hurt and doesnt play, we wont be as bad off.

i agree its a risk, but i think its definetly for sure a risk worth taking.

By ncscoots

September 19, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this

Efrim, good points on some of the Tigers’ untradeables, that does hamstring them a little.

I give Mike Ilitch credit, he took a shot with his payroll and would have had a good ROI for the wager, had his team appeared in the WS. Season-ticket sales and merchandising would have covered the nut. But, after their disappointing season, they can’t afford a top-five payroll in their market, IMO. Ordonez is their highest-paid player (I think) and the most attractive tradeable piece. How can you NOT move the guy? Regardless of the reaction from the fan base.

By That Truckers Fan Again

September 19, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this

I knew after you attended the Patterson show you must have good musical tastes but to drive to Athens for the James/Jason show just bumped you up from good to GREAT musical taste!! I was at the James/Jason show and agree it was a fantastic night of music. James’s set was ROCKIN, and all his songs to ring so poignantly to the craziness of today…not to mention his guitar playing is wonderful to watch!! Jason and the 400 Unit were like icing on the cake they totally brought the rest of the evening home. They really have come into their own as a band (even when they play the old Trucker tunes) and really seem to be having a great time doing what they do! I was thrilled that it was a co-bill allowing us 2 great 2 hours shows for just 15 bucks!!

By Efrim

September 19, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this

ncscoots

Here is the thing some people don’t get, if the Braves are willing to eat ALL of Mags salary, why should they trade Hanson, Heyward, what have you for the guy? I mean, are the Yankees(who want to get younger), or Red Sox(Bay) going to outbid the Braves. I just don’t see the need there. It’s pretty early to be going through what our competition may be for the guy, but the Braves seem like as good a trade partner as any. Again, not saying Lillibridge and Reyes should be enough, just that because of the salary he won’t be had for as much as you would think.

By mbatl

September 19, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this

DAP, from COTS:

*options guaranteed at $18M for 2010 & $15M for 2011 if Ordonez has:

135 starts or 540 PAs in 2009, or 270 starts or 1,080 PAs in 2008-09*

or being the keyword here, and he’s over halfway to those numbers right now (and again, that’s just the way I read it… you may be right. Seems to me that if he hits 270 starts in ‘08//09, the whole deal is vested).

Anyway, I think we agree he’d be a nice addition. Agree with ‘scoots, though, if we’re taking on that salary, shouldn’t have to give up a lot of prospects in the deal.

By 22oz

September 19, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this

DOB, I hope you didn’t have too much of that GA Theatre draft beer. That stuff causes the worst hangovers of any place you’ll go. Rumor is they never clean the taps.

By ncscoots

September 19, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

DAP, from Cot’s for Ordonez:

options guaranteed at $18M for 2010 & $15M for 2011 if Ordonez has: 135 starts or 540 PAs in 2009, or 270 starts or 1,080 PAs in 2008-09

I believe mbatl has the right of it, both options vest if he has a decent 2009 (since he’s already rocked part of the package in 2008).

By DAP

September 19, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this

p.s. pujols 1-4 chipper leads by 12 points.

By DAP

September 19, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this

mbatl i read about the contract on ESPN and it wasnt worded like that, so you could be right.

By ncscoots

September 19, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this

DAP probably thinks we’re piling on, LOL. I didn’t see that other contract post earlier.

By LKS

September 19, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this

See ya’ll at the game tonight!! GO BRAVES!!! Breakdown of the Mets 08 continued! Please Esco feel better and play tonight….we need u! Oh..Mcfann if you are still on…go to stubhub and get the tickets you can get good tix for decent price.

By mike28212

September 19, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this

would’ve loved to catch that mcmurtry/isbell show. sounds like it was great. i did see the truckers last night here in charlotte and they really rocked the house. it was incredible.

By Tomas

September 19, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this

Offseason Outlook: Detroit Tigers By Tim Dierkes [September 18 at 3:10pm CST]

The Tigers are next in our Offseason Outlook series. Here’s what they have for 2009:

C - Brandon Inge - $6.3MM C - Dusty Ryan - $400K 1B - Miguel Cabrera - $15MM 2B - Placido Polanco - $4.6MM SS - Ramon Santiago - $575K+ 3B - Carlos Guillen - $10MM IF - Michael Hollimon - $400K IF/OF - Ryan Raburn - $400K LF - Matt Joyce - $400K CF - Curtis Granderson - $3.5MM RF - Magglio Ordonez - $18MM OF - Marcus Thames - $1.275MM+ DH - Gary Sheffield - $14MM

SP - Justin Verlander - $500K+ SP - Jeremy Bonderman - $12.5MM SP - Armando Galarraga - $400K SP - Zach Miner - $410K SP - Nate Robertson - $7MM

RP - Fernando Rodney - $1.7MM+ RP - Gary Glover - $1.075MM+ RP - Bobby Seay - $780K+ RP - Joel Zumaya - $420K+ RP - Aquilino Lopez - $400K RP - Clay Rapada - $400K RP - Freddy Dolsi - $400K

Other commitments: Edgar Renteria - $3MM buyout, Rick Porcello - $1.2MM, Dontrelle Willis - $10MM

The Tigers have about $115MM committed for 2009, not including arbitration raises to Santiago, Thames, Rodney, Glover, Seay, Zumaya, and Verlander. So, they should be over $120MM with the current group. The Tigers had an opening day payroll of $137.7MM in 2008. Lynn Henning says to expect a drastic payroll reduction - “perhaps by $40 million or more.”

As Henning notes, the Tigers may need to trade Ordonez to slice payroll down to the $100MM range. Maggs is the team’s highest-paid player, and he has a fine .892 OPS. Ordonez essentially comes with a three-year, $48MM contract. Certain teams might find that contract acceptable, but not if the price also includes quality young players. The Braves might be a good match if the Tigers are mainly looking for salary relief.

No team would assume the contracts of Sheffield, Robertson, or Willis, so there’s no point in trading them. Polanco, Bonderman, and Thames probably have trade valu, but the Tigers don’t necessarily have ready replacements.

Even if the Tigers move Ordonez’s contract, they won’t have much left over for free agents. It’s hard to picture marquee free agents like Francisco Rodriguez, C.C. Sabathia, or Rafael Furcal being considered if Henning’s report is accurate. They might be able to dig around the bargain bin, re-upping Freddy Garcia and adding a nondescript veteran reliever.

The Tigers can contend in 2009, but it’ll probably require comebacks from current players such as Bonderman, Willis, Verlander, Robertson, Sheffield, Rodney, and Zumaya. The Tigers have one blue-chip prospect in Rick Porcello, who might be able to contribute in the second half.

Maybe the Braves could get Ordoñez. Aubrey Huff is also tradeable.

Rosenthal considers Aubrey Huff a “highly desirable trade commodity” this winter. That begs the question - why did Huff pass through waivers unclaimed in August?

By AdirondackDave

September 19, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this

Puhols is out of the game now in the 7th. Went 1-4 and is at .353. He’s had a bad week, wondering if he is tiring? I’m not complaining…

By AdirondackDave

September 19, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this

Regarding the Mags discussion… Seems to me that if the Braves (or any team) go for him it should take little in the way of players. Tigers (probably) have had him for his best years given his age through the next three years. $51M is serious money which is why they will/may unload him. They will need a shortstop and Lillibridge is a good prospect who could be included, especially with the Braves strength (Escobar/Infante) at that position. However, I don’t see anybody (Braves included) addiing young pitching to that deal. Just don’t think it will be necessary UNLESS the Tigers eat some of Mags contract or unless the deal is Mags+somebody else. I could see the Braves pursuing this from a multiple player angle on both sides. Could be this winter’s blockbuster.

By TheCutMan

September 19, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

Chipper and his class act, his way of not ducking tough questions, blaming outside circumstances, being humble, showing a high degree of finesse in answering the media AND his obvious talent is why I became a Braves’ fan in the first place.

Miss another game this season when Chipper is about to lock down the batting title? I’d sooner re-visit my divorce hearings.

By Train Wreck Bystander

September 19, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this

That GQ article was a good read.

It’d be a shame to see Chipper finish somewhere other than Atlanta.

By Lew

September 19, 2008 6:00 PM | Link to this

Evening, Denizens-Been away from the blog most of the week with houseguests.

I’ve been reading with interest the thoughts on picking up Ordonez. Is it a definite fact that he will be available? Seems to me, like someone mentioned earlier, that the window for the Tigers contention may not be over yet and they might well consider him an integral part of any championship hopes.

That being said, I really like the idea of having his bat in our lineup the next several years -which brings up another question-Would this not block talent we have targeted for the outfield? It could make a serious difference in any Braves’ interest, given the size of Mags’ salary. Something to think about, anyway.

Jersey Gil-How have you been? The wife been gfiving you intolerable grief about the Phillies wiping us out at home? Have you been giving lots of investment advice with the banking difficulties we’ve been hearing about this week?

By David O'Brien

September 19, 2008 6:00 PM | Link to this

Yunel out of lineup again, and it’s uncertain if he’ll even be able to play again. It’s a high-hamstring strain, and he can’t run. Can hit, just can’t leg out anything when he does hit it. So expect to see him pinch-hit and be pinch-run for, at least for another day or two, maybe longer.

Sammons is catching (sorry, McFann).

LINEUP: 1. Prado (LF), 2. Kelly, 3. Chipper, 4. Infante (SS), 5. Kotchman, 6. Francoeur, 7. Sammons, 8. Anderson, 9. Reyes.

By Braveheart

September 19, 2008 6:04 PM | Link to this

Is DOB back yet from tea and crackers with Chipper?

By mbatl

September 19, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this

‘scoots, DAP, yeah, didn’t mean to overload on the Ordonez contract. Anyway, he looks like the best option I’ve seen mentioned, and it’s just so dmn depressing to think of spending longterm dollars on guys like Dunn, Burrell, etc.

‘scoots, btw, the crown molding project is coming along pretty good. Two rooms done (very well, if I say so myself) and two to go. Granted, I have enough scrap to then trim out the closets, the laundry room, the dog house and more, but that’s okay. I just loves me my compound mitre saw. (I hire out most plumbing and electrical - where mistakes really cost - but try to do this kind of stuff myself.) It’s been fun, really.

By etownbrave

September 19, 2008 6:16 PM | Link to this

Tremendous article in GQ. Thanks for the link DOB Agree with TWB that it would be awful for Chipper not to finish his HOF career wearing just one uniform.

By David O'Brien

September 19, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this

Yes, over tea we discussed the recent nastiness on Wall Street and how our daddies would’ve never let this happen when the brokerage houses answered to them years ago. Then Chipper got a call from his uncle Mortimer and had to step away.

By AdirondackDave

September 19, 2008 6:23 PM | Link to this

Saw DOB’s lineup… looks like we’re going for that high draft pick tonight.

By Question

September 19, 2008 6:28 PM | Link to this

Jo-Jo Reyes currently is tied for longest losing streak in the NL among starting pitchers.

Kelly Johnson’s 16 game hitting streak is tied for the current longest in the NL.

Which streak is more likely to end tonight: Reyes’ losing streak or Johnson’s hitting streak?

By David O'Brien

September 19, 2008 6:45 PM | Link to this

ThatTruckersFan: You’re right on the money about McMurtry. And yes, it was amazing to see that much great music for $16 a pop. So cheap were the ducats, I didn’t even mind spending the bucks for a room at the Courtyard Marriott a few blocks away (rode over on the motorcycle, no way riding back at 1:30 a.m. after Isbell’s set).

By Steve

September 19, 2008 6:49 PM | Link to this

DOB, is there anything (Braves wise) to look forward to next year or build on?

By Braveheart

September 19, 2008 6:49 PM | Link to this

Oh, well, maybe the talk over tea with the Great Batsby will be better next time ……………

By Efrim

September 19, 2008 6:52 PM | Link to this

Lew

No one has said that Ordonez is definetly available, what has been rumored is that the Tigers want to cut 40 million from their payroll. Considering how many untradeable contracts they have(Willis, Robertson, Sheffield) it will be difficult for them to shed this payroll unless they deal a guy like Ordonez. He is owed 18 million next season, and seeing as the Braves have near 50 coming off their books, and they have a definite need in LF, it would seem they could be trading partners. It would be up to the Tigers on whether they want a lesser package and all the money to go to the other team, or eating some of the salary and asking for some better prospects in the package.

By David O'Brien

September 19, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this

Steve, no….

But seriously… A stat to monitor tonight: Braves have lost 10 consecutive starts by Jo-Jo Dancer, er, Reyes. The last time a Braves team lost as many consecutive starts by a pitcher was 1987-88, when they lost in 11 consecutive starts by Rick Mahler.

By Curt

September 19, 2008 7:11 PM | Link to this

DOB,

This quote from Schuerholz kind of shocked me when reading that GQ article.

Will he play for the Braves in 2010? “Whether we can sign him is not just a function of our desire or our want or our hope,” says Schuerholz carefully. “It’s a function of what his expectations become. We have great admiration for him, and we recognize clearly what his value is to this team. And we will measure that against what we believe to be his real, true ability to continue to function at that level. The reality of our business begs that we recognize the fact that it would be a really unusual development if he were to remain here.”

It just didnt seem to me that he really wants Chipper back if it mean making him a competitive offer. Or at least that he didnt see Chipper coming back after the current contract? Am I reading into that too much or is there anything that you can read into there?

By Steve

September 19, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this

Thanks DOB. Main thing I hate is Bobby ending his career like this.

Did previous GM see this coming and bail?

By Steve

September 19, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this

DOB, I recall Mahler looked like Bob Gibson several opening days then faded like the rest of the bunch…

By THB

September 19, 2008 7:32 PM | Link to this

Magglio seems like the best we’ll be able to get this offseason, and he’s very, very good. I’m guessing that the Tigers would want another solid prospect in addition to Lillibridge. They’d probably want something along the lines of Flowers or Rohrbough, and maybe Reyes or Morton as a throw in. Just Lilli and Reyes won’t cut it, but maybe Flowers and Lilli.

We haven’t really considered Oliver Perez much here; I think he would be a solid pickup if we could sign him for like 4 years, 13 million per year. He’s just 27 and is already pretty well established. He will most likely only get better. If we signed him, Lowe/Dempster, Hampton (For an incentive deal) and got Magglio, we’d be in solid shape for next year and years after. I think we should go that route, personally.

By David O'Brien

September 19, 2008 7:36 PM | Link to this

They’re playing “Get Back” during Jo-Jo’s pregame warmup. Perhaps not the best song choice, given his recent record.

Or, perhaps perfectly appropriate. “Get back to where you once belonged. Get back, Jo-Jo…”

By Random

September 19, 2008 7:41 PM | Link to this

(While he/she* is allegedly at the Braves game tonight, the role of McFann will be played by Random.)

(* C’mon — don’t tell me you were never fooled on a chat page.)

Mac woulda caught that fly if’nnn he’d only beennn innn the game!!!

By snowball's chance

September 19, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this

DOB,I realize that this has probably been gone over many times, But won’t Chipper come up short in AB’s to win the batting title.

By Random

September 19, 2008 7:47 PM | Link to this

(as McFann)

Three Base Mac coulda got Ho-Ho outa that innnnnning in less thannn 19 pitches!!!

C’monnn, Bobby!!!

By Random

September 19, 2008 7:50 PM | Link to this

(as McFann)

Goodnness gracious!!!

If’nn ThreffinnMickinn had of benn innn the linneup, Chipper would of gottennn plennnty better pitches to hit!!!

By braves70

September 19, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this

May I propose that we change Jo-Jo’s name to No-No: as in “Do you want Reyes on the 2009 Braves? No!-No!”

By Jake

September 19, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this

Time for Jojo to get it together. Lately its sounded like Bobby is losing pateince with him.

On another note it just became obvious while Bobby had KJ sit out against Perez this past Sunday. Too bad Esco is hurt because I think Bobby would have sat KJ again.

By Canuckbravesfan

September 19, 2008 8:04 PM | Link to this

47 pitches in two innings. Can’t any of our young pitchers learn to economize on their pitches ? How long does it take them to learn this ?

By John S. McCain

September 19, 2008 8:16 PM | Link to this

While some say the Braves are in decline and bad, I believe the fundamentals of this team are strong.

By BravesFanInRockies

September 19, 2008 8:18 PM | Link to this

Maybe the Tigers will take JoJo as one piece of a trade for Maggs if we also take on Nate Robertson and his salary.

Or perhaps pigs will fly.

By David O'Brien

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

Snowball’s Chance: You’re right, been covered about 119 times, but we’re here to serve, so we’ll cover it again. Chipper (or anyone else) only needs 502 plate appearances, NOT 502 at-bats.

He already has more than the minimum qualifying plate appearances. He could sit out the rest of the season and he’s already qualified for the batting title. (Plate appearances are at-bats, plus walks, hit-by-pitches, and sacrifice flys or bunts).

By David O'Brien

September 19, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this

If you’re in the field, it’s got to be the very definition of dispiriting to see Jo-Jo give back lead after lead this year. If Braves were in contention, gotta think there’s no way they’d still be running him out there.

By JD

September 19, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this

as if Jo-Jo wasn’t in Bobby’s doghouse already…

By N8

September 19, 2008 8:32 PM | Link to this

I found this quote from the GQ/Chipper interview interesting to say the least.:

“He would also try to assert himself in the clubhouse, twice criticizing the team’s play, only to be “aired out big-time,” he says, by manager Bobby Cox and some of his teammates. “They had conversations with me about ‘the way it’s done here.’ And okay, I learned from it. I won’t say another word. And I haven’t. That’s one of the reasons I’m not the vocal leader that some fans in Atlanta want me to be.” With an ironic smile, he says, “I’m what the Braves have made me.””

Gotta love a manager and team that can just suck the energy out of a born leader, huh? Unreal.

By Goo Goo..

September 19, 2008 8:32 PM | Link to this

Goo Goo Reyes gets paid by the pitch.

This guy has LOSER written all over him.

By Random

September 19, 2008 8:36 PM | Link to this

(as McFann)

I havenn’t beennn able to watch or listennn to the game lately, as I’ve had to milk the cows, churnnn the butter and spinnn the caterpillars a cocoonn,

Have I missed annythinng?

By Investigation

September 19, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this

The commissioners’ office needs to look into the use of PDD (performance detracting drugs) by Reyes and other Braves.

They just can’t be this bad!!!

By David O'Brien

September 19, 2008 8:46 PM | Link to this

Jose Reyes has 52 stolen bases. The Braves have 50.

By David O'Brien

September 19, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this

Braves have 25 homers from outfielders. Yes, still stuck on 25.

The last time any major league team had 25 or fewer HRs from outfielders in a non-strike season was the 1988 Giants, who also had 25.

Hasn’t been done in two decades since. Braves finish in two hitters parks, Philly and Houston. Will they get another homer from an OF? That’s the question.

By braves70

September 19, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this

Send Reyes to Kansas City or Washington where all old Braves go to die. (i.e. Kyle Davies/Ron Mahay/Tony Pena Jr./Willie Harris/Pete Orr/Ryan Langerhans)

By David O'Brien

September 19, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this

Maybe the Tigers will take JoJo as one piece of a trade for Maggs if we also take on Nate Robertson and his salary.BravesFanInRockies

And if the Braves also take on the remaining debt service for Comerica Park.

By Homer

September 19, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this

Goo-ing, Goo-ing, Gone!

and so is goo-goo boy

By keylargo

September 19, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this

Jake - The Mets broadcast showed a graphic on KJ facing Perez just before his 10 pitch walk.

8 ab’s with 7 K’s.

By Random

September 19, 2008 9:20 PM | Link to this

A batting title for the Braves

David O’Brien: Chipper Jones is likely to win the NL batting title over Albert Pujols.

I for one hope that not only does Chipper bury Pujols in the race for highest NL BA, but that he also somehow manages to attain .365+, thereby edging out all other switch hitters (sorry, Mr Coffee).

By David O'Brien

September 19, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this

Hey, dude with the goo fetish: We’re gonna consider deleting your posts not because of content offensive to anyone in particular, but simply because of the painfully unfunny and nonsensical nature of your material.

It would be an unprecedented move by us, but seriously, we’ve never had anyone who posted on a frequent basis with such utterly lame, non-entertaining comments.

By jonas

September 19, 2008 9:25 PM | Link to this

i think keeli johson should be playing second bace all of the time he is very tall like six feet something i think maybe and marvin praddo is only like five foot three i dont think prado can even get his bat off the rack without using a stool or maybe like corkky miller boosts him up or something

By David O'Brien

September 19, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this

Don’t know what everyone was booing about — that pitch was right down the middle that Chipper took for Strike 3. He didn’t even look at the umpire after the call. He knew.

By Jake

September 19, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this

Jojo doesn’t look to have any confidence in his stuff. He nitpicks around the strike zone afraid of contact then when he falls behind in the count and has to groove one gets hit hard. Jojo been so bad lately I don’t remember exactly what kind of pitcher he was when he had good games. I know Chuck James was a fly ball pitcher but Jojo was suppose to be more of a ground ball pitcher right?

On another note nice to see someone handing it to the Phillies. Phillies struck first with 2 and the Marlins came back with 5 then the Phillies took the lead back and now the Marlins have scored 8 unanswered.

By Eddie Cook

September 19, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Hope you didn’t jinx Chipper. He just struck out with the bases loaded and nobody out in the bottom of the fifth and is now 0 for 3 on the night.

By gooey treats

September 19, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this

Oh, AJC doesn’t like gooey marshmallow treats?

By Deep Throat

September 19, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this

I thought Blaine Boyer was the only one who was goo. Now Reyes?

Is it just Boyer or any bad pitcher? Somebody who watches the team from the GOOber state help me out here.

By On the nature of goo...

September 19, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this

Hey, dude with the goo fetish: We’re gonna consider deleting your posts not because of content offensive to anyone in particular, but simply because of the painfully unfunny and nonsensical nature of your material.

But watching the Braves this year has been painfully unfunny and much of what Bobby Cox does and says is nonsensical.

When faced with unreason, what else can a reasonable man do except cry: GOO.

By The Founding Fathers

September 19, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this

If we had envisioned goo guy, we might have revisited that whole freedom of speech concept anyway, DOB.

By David O'Brien

September 19, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this

No reason given yet for Chipper coming out of the game. Prado’s moved to third base, Blanco in left field.

By Random

September 19, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this

DOB: “Hey, dude with the goo fetish: We’re gonna consider deleting your posts not because of content offensive to anyone in particular, but simply because of the painfully unfunny and nonsensical nature of your material.”*

Ferchrissakes — just skip the dG comments that you object to — you and any other readers of this blog.

Is that really so effin hard? Is it?!?!?

H3ll — pretty much everyone and their dG little brother ignores every little thing I’ve ever had to say here.

Is it so much more difficult to ignore the goo boy?

I thought not. I myself have no problem at all ignoring his sorry little axe (to grind).

C’mon, DOB, decompress yourslf.

By David O'Brien

September 19, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this

Chipper sore right shoulder, listed as day-to-day.

By "Goo Guy"

September 19, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this

Deep Throat I thought Blaine Boyer was the only one who was goo. Now Reyes?

Blaine Boyer was originally singled out as he seemed to really characterize what was wrong with the Braves: a player with modest talent, who had a very high opinion of themselves, and didn’t seem to care about developing his craft but was just trotted out again and again by the esteemed manager, no matter how he performed.

Lately, Jo Jo Reyes has been performing so poorly that out of sheer frustration I have used the “G” word.

By Terry Forster

September 19, 2008 9:52 PM | Link to this

Am I going to have to come to Atlanta and take care of this situation?

By Superbarrio

September 19, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this

DOB flat out jinxed Chip. Way to go, DOB!

By Dane Cook and Bob Saget

September 19, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this

Be fair, goo guy is at least as funny as we are.

By AdirondackDave

September 19, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this

Saw DOB’s lineup… looks like we’re going for that high draft pick tonight.

By Braveheart

September 19, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this

Jorge Julio really has some wicked stuff. But alot of teams have thought that about him. I don’t know what it is with him whether it is losing concentration and/or having inconsistent mechanics or what. But the movement on his stuff is fun to watch. Walking batters after getting ahead 0-2 ain’t much fun to watch though

By David O'Brien

September 19, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this

Hey Jonas: Blanco is only about 5-9, but Prado’s well over 6 feet. (Not that I think you care, since I got a sense you were trying to be funny — like the hilarity of goo.)

By BA

September 19, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this

Somebody get the Mutts a glass of water…

By David O'Brien

September 19, 2008 10:00 PM | Link to this

Very good point, Dane.

By braves70

September 19, 2008 10:00 PM | Link to this

Joe Simpson said Chipper left with a shoulder injury. You could tell he was in pain after swinging at strike 2.

By JD

September 19, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this

too bad we don’t play the Mets everyday

By Superbarrio

September 19, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this

Sorry, I misspoke. Way to go, JINX!

By David O'Brien

September 19, 2008 10:04 PM | Link to this

The Mets, they’re really not too good at this late-September playoff race stuff, are they?

By Met errors...

September 19, 2008 10:04 PM | Link to this

Mets are not very solid in the field tonight.

In fact, they are downright G__!

(rhymes with chewy).

By David O'Brien

September 19, 2008 10:07 PM | Link to this

How ‘bout the respect for Norton — leads the NL with 17 pinch-hit RBIs, now getting a free pass to bring up Infante and set up potential double play.

By BA

September 19, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this

Manuel is going to make a trench going back and forth- should make for a captivating postseason sweep for the Mutt’s first round opponent.

By The Wizard

September 19, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this

The Braves SUCK. The Phillies are their Daddy!

By JD

September 19, 2008 10:09 PM | Link to this

Assuming we bring Norton back, we will have one hell of a bench. Infante, Prado, and Norton are terrific in the roles they play. I think that it would be a big mistake to not bring Norton back- he is a great pinch hitter that puts a scare into other teams minds when he comes to the plate.

By BILL

September 19, 2008 10:10 PM | Link to this

EVERYBODY IS BAD MOUTHING TERRY FOR THE TEAMS BATTING, BUT BOBBY HAS HAD FOUR DIFFERENT BATTING COACHES AND THE RESULT HAVE MAINLY BEEN THE SAME(WAITING FOR THE 3 RUN HOMER). I BELIEVE BOBBY IS WAY PAST HIS PRIME AND BASEBALL IS CHANGING, YOU NEED TO BUNT,STEAL,HIT AND RUN,LOOK AT THE RAYS. PENA WITH 30 HOME RUNS BUNTS APPROX. ONCE A WEEK. BSIDE NOT KNOWING HOW TO HANDLE A PITCHING STAFF BOBBY ALSO DOESN’T PLAY SMALL BALL.

By Random

September 19, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this

DOB: “It would be an unprecedented move by us …”

Psh. Yeah, right.

I call BS on that.

By The Wizard

September 19, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this

Phillies 13 Braves 2 ( Phillies 9-0 in Atlanta) Are you kidding me? The Braves are a joke! LOL

By BA

September 19, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this

JD, if we played these choking dogs every day, our disaster of a team would have won ninety games!

I bet DOB gets payed more for writing what becomes a long azz article once you include all of Manuel’s futile pitching changes.

By confidentially

September 19, 2008 10:15 PM | Link to this

I maintain that Greg Norton was one of the bad cops in LA Confidential.

By Jake

September 19, 2008 10:15 PM | Link to this

Well Wizard the Marlins just asked “Who’s your Daddy?”

By braves70

September 19, 2008 10:16 PM | Link to this

Norton also played for Jerry Manuel with the White Sox so Manuel should know him though it did not help last Sunday.

By harrison dangler

September 19, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this

Paging choker Met’s bloggers. Your team does not know how to win and Jerry has no confidence in the Bullpen. Kiss this one good by, losers.

By It's Moors you Jerk

September 19, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this

“Goo Guy”

You’re Goo Boy, not “Goo Guy.” Get it right.

By keylargo

September 19, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this

Before the 2008 season the over/under odds for wins was 86.5 for the Braves and 68 for the Marlins.

By Hans Arp

September 19, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this

Who’s your da da?

By southbeachdietfreak

September 19, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this

Wiz,

How long did it take the Phils to win 14 division titles. And WHEN was their last world championship?? Just curious.

By Jake

September 19, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this

I wonder who the mets have left in their bullpen. More mental mistakes by the braves. Let’s see if the braves can get up of the deck again.

By Yahoo

September 19, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this

Are we not allowed to use the word GOOGLE on this blog any more?

By Braveheart

September 19, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this

WOW. Kotchman with a gorgeous Mattingly-esque dive there. A great defensive first baseman. He also saved a bad throw from CJ before.

KJ and what seemed to be limited range from Anderson are killing us this inning though.

By Bobby Cox is so dumb...

September 19, 2008 10:38 PM | Link to this

Bobby Cox is so dumb, he keeps trying to fill out the lineup card using the Bull PEN.

By Mitchell

September 19, 2008 10:42 PM | Link to this

F* KELLY JOHNSON!!!

Kelly Johnson blew the season in June cause he can’t use two hands and now he’s reminding us what a terrible player he is.

A 14 game hitting streak doesn’t make up for incompetent fielding.

Whoever the f* teaches these idiots how to get a runner out in a rundown needs to be fired NOW!

Everybody but Bobby Cox and Roger McDowell needs to be fired. This is unacceptable.

I’m tired of all this sentimentality about Bobby. He should be made to retire.

This is utter BULL-S*. You can’t play like this against the Mets, they don’t deserve it.

By Jake

September 19, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this

A lot of mental errors lately. To many for my comfort. I’m not quite sure I would have used Norton there because Blanco was in that spot. I kind of knew they were going to walk Norton to set up a double play with a runner at third and 1 out. I would have let Blanco hit. All he has to do is pull the ball to the left side or hit a fly ball. If they decide to walk Blanco it decreases their chances at getting a double play with his speed. We would also still have Norton off the bench. If not for the mental brain freeze we should only be down 1 run.

By David O'Brien

September 19, 2008 10:45 PM | Link to this

Wow, Manny Acosta lives — he’s warming up in the ‘pen.

By Braveheart

September 19, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this

Seriously, KJ has the bat to be an average corner outfielder ……. he should have the defensive skills to be an average defensive corner outfielder ……….. he needs to go out there ……….. or be a 2B for some other team …….. he’s just not a second baseman defensively

By southbeachdietfreak

September 19, 2008 10:51 PM | Link to this

Bobby Cox is so dumb

That was so dumb, your next 2 posts should automatically be deleted.

By Mitchell

September 19, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this

It’s Christmas in September for the Mets.

Way to go Braves.

Has anybody noticed that the Mets haven’t really beaten us up since 2006. Every time we’ve lost to them since then we’ve pitched poorly, played poorly, left runners on base, etc.

And yet a lot of games they’ve had us beat and we still won.

It’s just when we play bad that they win.

By Lou Vales

September 19, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this

Dear David, Just a couple of questions. (1) Was there an IOTA of doubt in your mind that Chipper Jones would have an injury at about the same time that a program, if run by M.I.T.,would demonstrate an almost impossible chance of having Pujols catch him for the batting title— IF he was just to Shut It Down?????

We actually started a pool as to when he would be INJURED. I, almost crazily, predicted Wednesday. The other 3 people chose Saturday, Monday, and—if you can believe it, next Saturday. Saturday(tomorrow) probably wins because he is THROUGH for the year—Book It!!!

(2) Would it be too much to ask of a Marlins afficianado that the Braves actually defeat the Mets or Phillies in MAYBE 2 out of 9 chances??? Isn’t that difficult—Just pound them to death!! Something like 14-8. 10-6 against them. What is the matchup problem??

Although, I must admit that Marlins have ONLY themselves to blame for going AN UNBELIEVABLE 7-11 against a collection of canines that would not be taken in by an ASPCA President.

By True Braves Fan

September 19, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this

Dear Bobby Cox:

I know he is “one of your boys” but PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE PUT KELLY JOHNSON ON THE BENCH AND LEAVE HIM THERE FOR THESE LAST NINE GAMES OF THE SEASON.

THANK YOU.

By Jake

September 19, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this

Manny looked sharp. Julian got a raw deal. Should have been 1 run given up by the bullpen tonight. Nothing really good to say about Jojo so I won’t say anything at all. Gotta be tired of this beating yourself stuff. Why not just let the other team try to beat you? Well Lesson Learned, if you give the Mets 5 outs they WILL make you pay.

By Braveheart

September 19, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this

Nice work by Acosta …. It’s cool to listen to Smoltz describe the mentality of some of these guys like Acosta and Reyes ….. it’s really good insight …..

By southbeachdietfreak

September 19, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this

Nice 1-2-3 by Acosta!

By Oh brother

September 19, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this

Kelly Johnson blew the season in June cause he can’t use two hands and now he’s reminding us what a terrible player he is.

Have you looked at the NL East standings lately? At all? You think if Kelly Johnson has caught that ball the Braves would be 20 games better?

Braveheart, first error in a while for Kelly Johnson and you’re here to jump on him. At least you’re consistent in your irrational hatred.

Last I checked Kelly Johnson had better defensive stats this year at second base than your man-crush Martin Prado.

By Robert S

September 19, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this

keylargo, looks like it’s going to be the other way around. Who would’ve thunk it?? If the Braves get to 70 wins, they’ll be doing good. If they can win 6 of 9 (highly unlikely, but…) they can avoid 90 losses. A moral victory, perhaps?

By DCDave

September 19, 2008 11:03 PM | Link to this

Folks, watching the waning days of a regrettable Braves season, tonight’s game just reinforced one of those old baseball adages -you have to be strong defensively up the middle. Does anyone seriously think Kelly remotely qualifies for that criteria? He is the poster boy for plays not made but no error charges to him (like the botched pick-off tonight).

By David O'Brien

September 19, 2008 11:03 PM | Link to this

Random: Psh, you still need your feelings soothed? Damn, man, get over it.

By southbeachdietfreak

September 19, 2008 11:03 PM | Link to this

Oh, well, another check in the L column. HOw’d Pujols do today, anyone know?

By David O'Brien

September 19, 2008 11:05 PM | Link to this

Confidentially: Very good line. I’m gonna go back and watch LA Confidential again. You’re right, though, he’s got that look.

By SNIPER-69

September 19, 2008 11:08 PM | Link to this

Wow theres’s a lot of Met fans in Atlanta. LETS GO METS!!!

By Captain TED

September 19, 2008 11:08 PM | Link to this

Yeah sure, this bunch of losers need to bring back the same coaching staff next year

By keylargo

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

Puhols was 1 for 4 today vs. the Cubs.

By Robert S

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

“It’s just when we play bad that they win.”

That’s been the case a lot more often this year, Mitchell. That why the Braves are going to likely lose 90+ games. The Mets aren’t the only team the Braves have stranded runners against, or made bonehead defensive plays, or pitched poorly against.

But give the Mets some credit, too. They did what a playoff team needs to do in that 8th inning - they took full advantage of KJ’s error and got some big hits.

By N Nine

September 19, 2008 11:13 PM | Link to this

southbeachdietfreak

THE CHIPPER JONES UPDATE:

Chipper- 0-3 .362 hurt :(

Pujols 1-4 .353

Injured Chipper can use a few days off and see what pujols does!

Goo boy on probation? wow

By Jake

September 19, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this

Sorry Oh Brother it may be the only scored error on Kelly lately, but he just made one the other night when he forgot how many outs there were and that let a run score. Don’t hate KJ because he is certainly not the only one making mental and physical errors lately. List wise I think it goes something like Anderson, Lillibridge, Kelly, Chipper, and Infante. Some of these guys though have been multiple offenders. The sad thing though it has been with in a span of like 5 games.

Oh by the way. You don’t prove how good a guy is by trying to say at least he’s better than this guy because if the guy was really good enough you would be able to prove that by standing on his stats alone. It’s like me saying Clint Sammons is such a better catcher than Corky Miller because at least he doesn’t have as many errors as him.

By Brian

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

I think we’re all getting a taste of why J. Anderson was given away by the Astros for a journeyman RP! Of course that’s being hypocritical because I was with 98 percent of you on bringing him up but that dude has NO plate disipline and not all that impressed with the D he’s shown lately either. He could develop but he may be a 4th outfielder for awhile. As for KJ, well, with his great eye at the plate he can get away with a few errors but I hope he can limit them where they don’t cost us the damn game!!

By N Nine

September 19, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this

guys: I think Acosta has some trade value! he had a 2.28 era last year to go with his 3.86 era this year. I won’t mind losing him. Trade while his value is somewhat high!

By Robert S

September 19, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this

“Goo boy on probation? wow.”

Don’t tell goo boy, but I think DOB’s putting him on double secret probation.

By Brian

September 19, 2008 11:24 PM | Link to this

Sniper69uptb- Kinda excited right now, huh? You should be, it only took, what 5,6 releivers with ALOT of help from Johnson to win? Need I say more?

By David O'Brien

September 19, 2008 11:26 PM | Link to this

Chipper left without talking to reporters (plenty of others did, too; they like to get the H out on Friday night because of the fireworks, to beat the crowd.)

He told Braves PR guy it’s not a new injury, something he’s been dealing with, just some inflammation in the right shoulder. Day to day, that’s about it.

By SNIPER-69

September 19, 2008 11:30 PM | Link to this

So the braves are keeping their coaching staff together for next year….That’s funny.

By Robert S

September 19, 2008 11:32 PM | Link to this

N Nine, with the state of the bullpen as it is now, trading Acosta is the last thing the Braves should consider during the offseason, at least until they have a more solid idea of who’ll be here in the spring. When he’s healthy, Acosta is just fine, as long as Bobby Cox doesn’t overuse him like he has with Boyer and Ohman.

By BA

September 19, 2008 11:46 PM | Link to this

What’s funny are the delusional booger-eating boobs that think the Mutts have a chance in h in the postseason. A lineup full of choke artists and a bullpen of nervous nillies that love to give it up like good girls.

Snipper, do the world a favor- turn the gun around.

By N Nine

September 19, 2008 11:53 PM | Link to this

Robert S

Although I completely agree with the state of the bullpen, I have less confidence in Acosta then his numbers show. He is a walk happy pitcher. Remember that extra inning game in Washington? His value is ok right now and we have many holes. I’m afraid he is going to blow up with bobby’s help. We need to find bullpen players also however! So i sorta agree with you but won’t lose sleep over losing acosta. Sign Ohman!

By Jake

September 19, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this

I hate to admit this but I kinda already had this game pegged as a loss before we even played it. Saw Jojo was starting and I just kinda conceded this one. We almost overcame Jojo and all his Jojoness tonight but in the end the defense dropped the ball. If the Mets would have lost this game they should have kicked themselves. Mr. Perez wasn’t as sharp as usual but he managed to not explode, i’ll give him that. Let’s just see what happens when the Mets actually have to play against an opponent that isn’t the caliber of two teams long eliminated from the playoffs. Not everyone is as giving as the braves.

By Brian

September 19, 2008 11:59 PM | Link to this

Sniper69uptb- You should apologize to all of us Braves fans for having to watch that little moron Reyes act like 10 year old kid on speed!! It’s halarious and pathetic all at the same time! HA,HA,HA

By Mitchell

September 20, 2008 12:04 AM | Link to this

Let’s compare the wins and losses up to June 6, when Kelly dropped a ball and subsequently blew the season.

32 and 30 from March 30th to June 5. After and including the June 6th loss to the Phillies, they’re 35 and 58.

Granted, the Braves weren’t winning any games on the road up to that point, but if nothing else, you can’t say that our fortunes against the Phillies weren’t drastically effected after that game… for the worse.

Either way, Kelly Johnson sucks.

By Lou Vales

September 20, 2008 12:06 AM | Link to this

David, He’s “Day to day” in the same way Hampton has been year to year.

Ted Williams’frozen body is turning over in that lab at just the thought that someone would sit out the last 9 games of a season to preserve a batting title, when he once startred a double header on last day when all he needed to do was sit.

AND YET, we have a “Pujols Watch” in anticipation of a guy winning a batting title for a team finishing more than 20 games out—Wow!!!! They don’t call them FANaticS for nothing!!

By BA

September 20, 2008 12:08 AM | Link to this

I’d move Acosta, if you could get something like you got for Ascaino. And I’d bet Luis Valdez will get a shot in the spring. I have a feeling the bullpen, like the outfield and the rotation, could be completely overhauled. That is, I hope.

By Marc

September 20, 2008 12:09 AM | Link to this

DOB—

Do you think Bobby has lost his patience with Jo-Jo? When that happens, it’s only a matter of time….

By TennesseePaul

September 20, 2008 12:10 AM | Link to this

So next years’ rotation won’t include Reyes will it? This guy stinks. I’m over 3,000 miles away and I can still smell the wretch.

It’s fitting how the March phenoms have all fallen apart. Jeff Bennett, the sixth starter, the man to spot start and long relief, penciled in for 180 innings before the season began, hasn’t been that inspiring despite a handful of good outings last year. Charlie Morton similar. Jo Jo Reyes, well he’s stunk his whole career. And Chuck James… turns out he actually did need surgery. Perhaps he can come back healthy for a change. In the mean time we can begin the hype on Parr, right?

I hope Wren follows through with the “pitching, pitching, and more pitching” platform. Even if it means less offense. I’d rather watch the team lose 1-2, 2-4, 1-3 or whatever, than to sit through 3 inning outings with crooked numbers all over the place. Besides, the 1995 series was won by one of the worst hitting teams in the majors.

By Get a Brain Moron

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

@12:04 AM

KJ’s dropped ball can be pinned on way game and one game only. Blaming it on any other losses is beyond stupid and unfair.

Either way, Kelly Johnson sucks.

Yeah, yeah. Heard it all before. He sucks to the tune of having the second most XBHs on the team, second to only McCann, and being 4th in the NL in 2B OPS. What a bum, huh?

And all those teams that want to trade for him and pry him from the Braves…what saps. Don’t they know how bad KJ is!?!?!?!?! Don’t their scouts read this blog???

By N Nine

September 20, 2008 12:17 AM | Link to this

Hey Lou why do you see everything in the world in a negitive way? Your just an annoying little rat. Why you have to attack chipper every night? what will satisfy you? WHAT DO YOU WANT????????

By N Nine

September 20, 2008 12:21 AM | Link to this

Thanks for your blog *get a brain moron Nice 1

By mets fan in atlanta

September 20, 2008 12:25 AM | Link to this

That was the most fun i’ve had a Mets-Braves game at Turner Field in the 5 years i’ve been in Atlanta. There have been larger wins, and bigger pitching matchups, but for sheer fun this was it. I’ve never had so many Mets fans in my section before—ever—and they were everywhere. After the game was over, i stopped in the restroom, and it was full of Met fans. We’re giving high fives on the way out (after we washed our hands—i’ve read that Turner Field study too), but just the whole game was like that.

Also, in the third inning, i went to the pasta station where the guys cook it there for you, and John Smoltz walked by and exchanged pleasantries with the woman standing next to me. So i was like, Hmmm, let me talk to her and find out who she is. Turns out, she was Mrs. Buddy Carlyle. Very nice woman, (and very attractive i might add) and she was so worried during the third inning that Buddy would be coming in right then. She said she gets actually sick when he comes in a game, she is so nervous for him.

The funny thing is, she gets her pasta, she tells me it was so nice meeting me (even though i have on my mets shirt), and i started to say something about buddy, and i stopped myself, because whatever i said would be wrong. I couldn’t tell her i hoped Buddy pitched good (cause i’d be lying), i couldn’t say i didn’t want him to pitch (cause that would mean Reyes was still pitching and we hadn’t knocked him out), basically i couldn’t say anything about him. So i told her it was very nice meeting her as well, and that was that.

By Metropolitan Man

September 20, 2008 12:29 AM | Link to this

Great game tonight. METS reclaim 1st at the expense of the braves, gotta love it. I had a great time with the braves fans behind the METS dugout and I know you guys enjoyed yourselves too. See you tomorrow, to much frun tonight to pass up a Saturday Mets braves games.

By Mitchell

September 20, 2008 12:36 AM | Link to this

But give the Mets some credit, too. They did what a playoff team needs to do in that 8th inning - they took full advantage of KJ’s error and got some big hits.

The Mets did take advantage of Nancy’s error, obviously, and even though Tavares should have been out of the inning, he put that ball on a T to Reyes. I haven’t really missed Andruw like I thought I would this year until tonight. He would have had that ball to left center but Tavarez blew it.

And the Mets are not a playoff team. Give me a break.

I said it before, I’ll say it again… they don’t even deserve the notoriety of blowing another division title in the final weeks. The Phillies were the front-runners most of the season and the Phillies are far superior. Why they haven’t wrapped up the division already is amazing. I mean, I have no idea what it takes to beat them.

And the Mets may still manage to stumble into the playoffs but they’re going to wish they hadn’t. That bullpen is awesomely, unbelievably bad. That bullpen is a first class ticket to getting the best pick of Halloween costumes at Party City.

Oh God, that was hilarious.

All I care about is winning one more game against the Mutts so we can take the season series like we should have last year.

By Jake

September 20, 2008 12:47 AM | Link to this

Yes you have the lead now Mets fans so if i’m correct on how this story ends this is where you fall on your face. Remember your problem isn’t gaining the lead it’s holding on to the lead. I suggest you start kissing our buts now and not later because when you leave here you finish the season with the Cubs and Marlins which just makes it easier to choke away the lead. You’ll need our help in actually playing well against the Phillies (although those odds look very slim). You’re cocky, full of life, and back in the lead. Now if only this were the last day of the season.

By N Nine

September 20, 2008 12:50 AM | Link to this

Muts Fans:

Glad you all had fun tonight. But time for reality check: look at the win-loss record against the 4th place Braves. OH! how much of a payroll do you have again? By the way Muts are fighting for a playoff spot that’s why there was so many fans there. If it was a typical year(braves winning) you wouldn’t see that. Remember Braves had a winning record last year and fought to the last week. This is just an off year— are allowed to have a terrible year like this at least once in a blue moon. We will rebuild and make Turner Field a nightmare for the Muts -just like how Piazza pictures it: Deathvalley.

By Mitchell

September 20, 2008 12:56 AM | Link to this

I’m really glad that you Mets fans had a good time tonight cause I had a great time watching the Braves beat Johan Santana last Saturday and then seeing Greg Norton hit a mammoth 3 run homerun in 9th on Sunday to win that game.

So I can relate.

But hey, it was you’re night tonight! I’m betting it felt a lot like Christmas.

Go Mets!!!!!!!!!

By Brian

September 20, 2008 12:58 AM | Link to this

MutfaninAtlanta- Nice of you to show up after the Muts were basically handed the win! Where have you been? Dude, how much of a COWARD are you, anyways? How’d you like my comment on Reyes earlier- pretty funny, huh?

By Mitchell

September 20, 2008 1:12 AM | Link to this

Hey Mets fan in Atlanta,

That was a really great story you told about meeting Buddy Carlisle’s wife.

Really really great story. It was very enjoyable and long and just great.

By Brian

September 20, 2008 1:12 AM | Link to this

FW needs to take a long look at our games against the Phillies this year and try to put a team on the field in ‘09 that can compete with them! I think he can do it!

By Lou Vales

September 20, 2008 1:14 AM | Link to this

Dear Chipper Sniffers, Hypothetical Question—-It is last game of the season— a night game—Pujols(or ANYONE with an ounce of GUTS) leads the batting race by a point, does he sit the game out or play???? Now reverse the situation and have Larry leading by a point, does Larry sit or play???

I think if you’re honest you know the answer—David knows the answer—-and that is why I’m not a big FANatic of Larry Jones. AND if you left the Southeast for a rare excursion—ANYWHERE—you would find that opinion of Larry Jones across the land does not match the one prevalent in the Original Braves’ Market.

Would like to know who thinks Larry would play in that situation described above. Be honest.

Also, the poor little Fish are only 4 1/2 out. Just a speck of help from these incompetents in the next 5 games against Phillies and Mets?? Would that be possible?/ I know the Phillies are unbeatable—even though two TD’s scored on them tonight.

By Metropolitan Man

September 20, 2008 1:17 AM | Link to this

Great game, the METS did something the philthies couldn’t, beat the bravesat Turner . Back in 1st and everything is good is METSland. Enjoy the rest of the season.

By mets fan in atlanta

September 20, 2008 1:18 AM | Link to this

Actually i posted last weekend after the Mets lost that heartbreaker to the braves—but i don’t post on here nonstop cause you see i actually have a life. I try to get on here every other day or so, but i rarely ever post. Most everyone knows that i think.

As for Reyes, that what makes him him. That’s also what was missing down the stretch last season, his excitement. But as for this year, as i told some Braves fans who were talking smack on the way out, the Brewers are doing the choking for us anyway. I am confident the Mets will hold on—and rumor is, John Maine will be activated on Monday. He will be limited to throwing one inning, but adding him to the bullpen can only help—and he just might be the closer we need. We’ll see.

By Lou Vales

September 20, 2008 1:27 AM | Link to this

Quit talking false bravado to the Mutt Fans— as you call them— and just have your group of quitters and slackers MAYBE beat them ONCE this weekend for a 1-5, Close Out, Fan Appreciation, Home Stand.

Possible?? Maybe??? No Hope??

We do KNOW who won’t be in the lineup on Saturday and Sunday.

By Lou Vales

September 20, 2008 1:31 AM | Link to this

Dear Brave Fans, You read this crap and you don’t pull for the Marlins?? There is only one of me, BUT so many of them!!

By Jake

September 20, 2008 1:32 AM | Link to this

I’m not hoping for failure i’m watching it. If we don’t give you the game you don’t win. How about you check the standings and realize you are bragging about beating a team that is pretty much down to its third string in terms of starting pitchers. Get high and mighty when you beat someone of the ilk of John Smoltz or Johan Santana. You know, like we have done twice this season. Since Milwaukee is choking worse than you you’ll probably find a way to back into the playoffs. But remember like you told all us Braves fans all those years that it doesn’t count unless you win the world series which I don’t think anyone is betting on the mets to do. So at the end of the day you are just like us in 2008. Championshipless but with a worse draft pick.

By Brian

September 20, 2008 1:38 AM | Link to this

MutfaninAtlanta- You have life? Posting on a Braves blog and shouting how superior the Muts are? Are you delusional or just drunk? Probably both! By the way, going to school full time and working part time is hardly “not having a life”!

By Mitchell

September 20, 2008 1:42 AM | Link to this

I final note to the Nancy (sorry, Kelly) Johnson apologists out there.

I was starting to change my mind about Kelly after this streak he got on about a month ago. Frankly I didn’t think he was capable of hitting like this ever again. He was beginning to look like a guy who just couldn’t cut it in the majors anymore.

Clearly he’s turned a corner but his defense has once again revealed itself to be utterly abysmal.

There are those players that are “my boy” or “you’re boy”. Kelly is most definitely not “my boy”. If he ever was, he’s not now. What can I say.

I used to be able to defend JoJo Reyes but I no longer can. I’m sure I’m not alone on that but I mean the guy had two starts this year when he went 8 innings and lost 1-0. He’s lost it.

Kelly is a killer. That’s all I can say. I cringe everytime somebody hits a ground ball to him and I know you all do too.

Okay, that’s all I can say. And that I’m totally awesome.

The End

By Lou Vales

September 20, 2008 1:43 AM | Link to this

Sniper-69, I can’t stand the Mets, but if the Marlins had not played with pride against the Mets—virtually IN every game—and currently 10-6 against the Phillies, Well, I certainly would not be DUMB enough to come on here and talk about YOUR troubles.

By NO MORE BOBBY

September 20, 2008 1:59 AM | Link to this

With the way this year has gone I bet Chipper misses winning this by one point.

By Mitchell

September 20, 2008 2:11 AM | Link to this

I like how you Met fans are counting on beating the Braves tomorrow because Chipper won’t be in the line-up. You might recall that he wasn’t in the line-up last week and we still beat you.

I also enjoy the fact that your confidence in your team is conditional upon the choking of other teams. You’re not actually confident are you? Just somewhere on the hopeful end of the desperation scale.

Man I am dropping knowledge like Kelly Johnson drops game winning pop-ups.

Still, you realize there’s a chance even though the odds of beating the Cubs or the Phillies or the Dodgers, for that matter, are stacked against you.

I have to assume that even though you have no way of convincing yourself you have a chance in October you still probably wouldn’t want to use the ‘06 Cardinals as an example of the underdog going all the way. Just a hunch.

By proeye

September 20, 2008 2:14 AM | Link to this

It’s a downright shame that Chipper Jones will win the batting title in the worst year the Braves have had since 1990 and frankly the worst year that Chipper has had to endure in his entire career. Ironic isn’t it? Just think of how much worse this season could have been if it wasn’t for Chipper…

I honestly don’t understand what is wrong with this club. On paper they aren’t this bad. I just don’t get it. It seems that every game they lose just enough runs to lose. Of course I’m exaggerating but only to a point because you look at their runs scored and runs against and you know what I mean.

So let’s talk about a few things here. ;-)

Maybe it’s the fact that we have a whole team full of players who don’t know how to play the situational game. Maybe we have a team full of “losers” perhaps?

What is with Kelly Johnson? He seems to put together good stats every year but wow talk about streaky. I’m not sure we want this in a second baseman who are traditionally lighter hitting guys who are supposed to get on base and well, be consistent, and are supposed to be good fielders. We know Kelly can’t field his position and may never be able to do so.

WE can think about a trade but whatever happened to getting back MORE than what you trade away??? We practically gave up Tex for less than 1/2 a player in return. Kotchman is okay and he is really underperforming (what else is new) but he isn’t in the same stratosphere as Tex.

So can we get anything for Johnson? If not, then obviously we have to keep him. Too bad we can’t get a great fielding, high average, high OBP guy who maybe can steal a few bases. Or on the reverse, someone like Uggla who hits the ball out of the park consistently.

What about Francoeur? Could we possible get anything for him? I would love to be able to trade away several players for great minor league talent because sometimes you can get a two for one deal or a can’t miss prospect for an every day player. But what talent does this club have? What about Francoeur? Does he have any trade value at all? Sheesh, you would think after the Andruw Jones affair, no one would trust a Braves player ever again. L.A. sure got a HUGE dud. Great career, loved the guy, but he just doesn’t have it anymore!

What about trading Kotchman, Francoeur, Johnson, and anyone not named Jones, McCann, or any of our young talent? Like I say though, what are we going to get back???

By The Wizard

September 20, 2008 3:59 AM | Link to this

Rob Murphy. Remember that name, Tomahawk Choppers. You are going to see a lot of this kid (22) in the coming years. And with tons of envy, I might add. Rob Murphy. Remember that name. The Braves pitchers sure will. You are seeing the future NL batting title winner. Don’t believe me? Just wait.

By The Wizard

September 20, 2008 4:04 AM | Link to this

Whoops…Dan Murphy. I’m getting as bad as Keith. He called him ob tonight too! At any rate, remember that name, Tomahawk Choppers. I hope the Braves enjoy October on the golf courses. “FORE” LOL

By Train Wreck Bystander

September 20, 2008 4:08 AM | Link to this

Here’s something to take your minds off this nightmare season:

San Diego Padres Hazing Ritual

I almost feel bad for posting this; it may scar you for life.

By The Wizard

September 20, 2008 4:15 AM | Link to this

Turner Field sounded like Shea Stadium last night. Great to see a sea of blue and orange in the stands! You’d never see that many Tomahawk Choppers in Shea for a game. NEVER! I guess Braves fans are just quitters. LOL And it’s only going to get worse. F-Rod will be wearing blue and orange next year. The money just keeps pouring in. That’s the way it goes when you even have your own TV station! And now a new state of the art ballpark too. It’s great to be a Mets fan. And it must be depressing to be a tomahawk chopper these days. PS: How did Glavine do this year? LOL

By Supes

September 20, 2008 4:39 AM | Link to this

I see that the METS TROLLS are out in full force tonight.

Fraking pathetic if you ask me.

Way to get excited about beating a 4th place team, and a starting pitcher who hasn’t won a game in 2 months and will not be a part of the Braves rotation next year.

The mets won the game on Friday, but were exposed for the fraud that they are. Oliver Perez was on the ropes a couple of times. Mets defense sucks. Delgado is on his last leg defensively, and Reyes is shaky on routine plays. Meanwhile, the Mets Manager has to use 4 pitchers to get out of 1 inning…almost like re-arranging the deck chairs on the titanic …much good may it do you if you make it to the post season.

Nothing other than the Mets offense 3-5 is workig. Average starting pitching down the stretch, shaky pen and no championship caliber closer.

Enjoy your short lived victory METS fans…your team isn’t going anywhere. You will be joining the Braves shortly.

BTW…still got 2 more games this series…if your team loses, I guarantee you won’t be on here boastig about the Mets, but will hide out as usual!

By TommyP

September 20, 2008 6:31 AM | Link to this

Concerning Magglio….can someone tell me (A) what his injury was a few years ago (last one in Chicago and first in Detroit) that decimated those two years and (B) what his status is now as far as health?

I don’t watch much AL baseball so I haven’t seen Mags in the field. Was it a knee?

I did notice he’s put together 3 straight injury-free seasons since then.

Could this be the lowest batting average ever for an MVP? (Ryan Howard)

Thank God for college football.

And Amos Alonzo Stagg.

By ncscoots

September 20, 2008 6:34 AM | Link to this

TennPaul and I have disagreed on Reyes before, mainly because I think he has great stuff. But all the tinkering he’s done this season, and his lack of results…I’m guessing his head has gone completely south. He certainly appears to be pitching with zero confidence.

And that’s a shame. Lefties with his tools should be millionaires-in-waiting, not 0-11 bums. Unfortunately, it’s way much easier to tell a kid to “trust your stuff” than it is for some kids to implement such direction. I’d hate to see the Braves give up on Reyes, but I’d also have to agree with others here that he hasn’t given much reason not to do so.

By Random

September 20, 2008 8:41 AM | Link to this

McFann —

I’ll turn the reins back over to you now.

How’d I do in the role of McFann? I even went to bed at 10:30, I was so into the part.

(You know I was just funnin ya — no hard feelings?)

By Coach (Skip will be missed)

September 20, 2008 9:05 AM | Link to this

Among all third basemen with 400 at bats this year, Chipper is ranked 1st in BA (.362) and 2nd in SLG (.567).

However, he is also ranked 12th in HR’s (21) and 12th in RBI (72).

But what really sets off the alarm bells is Chipper’s ranking of 16th in games played (122).

Hoss is, has and will continue to put the Braves in a huge competitive disadvantage because of his various physical ailments. I’m not blaming Chipper per say. But it is what it is.

By JC from UT

September 20, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this

DOB: Is BC beginning to lose patience with KJ’s defense? Also, do you think the Royals would trade Mark Teahan for KJ? I realize it would be better to try to get some pitching for KJ but it was just a thought.

By Rico

September 20, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this

DOB, great meeting you Wed. night in Athens ad sharing some stogie time. Been reading you since you got to ATL.

How cool was it that James McMurtry rolled up to the red light in that van? Seems like a cool dude. Looks like Weird Al and sounds like a Texas flavored Lou Reed.

Yeah, I’ll be in Philly next week on bidness. Will be at the game Monday night. If you hear anyone yelling for their life in Sec. 131, row 27, seat 7…send security. hehe I’ll be there with my college buddy who’s a Philly fan and lives in S. Jersey so maybe it won’t be too bad. Maybe I’ll just wear my Braves cap and buy “Muck the Phets” shirt to endear me to the locals better. Or maybe since we suck this year they’ll just laugh at me as opposed to firing D-battery missles at the back of my head. In any event, I’m staying at the Holiday Inn right there at the stadium so I won’t have too far to go if I’m running for my life from a rabid pack of Philly fans.

Don’t know how much free time you have away from the press box but maybe you could join me for a quaff of some of the local brew if you have time. We’re probably going to hit the local sports bar afterwards. Or maybe there’s something going on back at the hotel.

In any event, great meeting you. Don’t be a stranger to Athens. If nothing else, pencil in Athfest next summer and maybe we can share some brew/stogie time.

By McFann Ô

September 20, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this

Ah, OK…so, did we win? I saw that last out, but I was mostly concentrating on the dugout…

8 ) JK. 9-5. Yeah, I did watch the action.

Hey, it was really exciting when the Braves tied it up and everything. It kinda felt like a playoff game. Unfortunately, Tavarez came in…

But I did bring my binos…and our seats were pretty good! We were in left-center, and had a perfect view of the dugout—perfect for spying…

At first, I was disappointed that Mac wasn’t playing, but I was getting tired of watching him strikeout 5 times out of 8.

So let’s see…My observations from the game (other than the fact that the kids in front of us were really annoying, and that the game was really fun, even though they lost) were that, for one, McCann would not shut up for about two and a half innings—well, really through the whole game (kinda like yours truly), but after the first couple of innings he quieted for a little while. In the bottom of the fourth, I looked in the dugout, and he was sitting on top of one of the Gatorade dispenser thingies. No kidding.

OK, well, this has been a long post…but one moe thing:

Random—

No hard feelings. That was pretty funny. But I reallly was at the game (see above). But we don’t have any cows or butter-churners…

You went to bed at 10:30, eh? You really were into it then, I guess…except that means you missed McCann’s PH…He flew out to end the game.

By Brian

September 20, 2008 10:25 AM | Link to this

Coach- You don’t think FW and Bobby know this about Chipper? That’s why you have a backup plan going into ‘09. Whatever that is. They need to have a big bat behind Jones as that may increase his power #s. Besides, if we go into ‘09 depending fully on Jones then we’re in deep s** anyways! Strong pitching, power bat hitting cleanup, backup plan(Infante), we can afford 130-140 games out of Chipper.

By McFann Ô

September 20, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this

Ugh…I forgot my “r” in “more”. Sorry ‘bout that.

By Metropolitan Man

September 20, 2008 11:01 AM | Link to this

Ready for round 2 tonight at the TED? Whats wrong with you braves ushers trying to stifle my joy? I have been informed that the philthies fans and team left a bad taste at Turner so they tried to take it out on this METS fan to no avail. They shut up and watched the METS beat up on the braves while I gave them and their fans the business, in a tasteful and entertaining way. If no one is complaining except you and you are the usher, do your job, shut your mouth and keep it moving. You guys need a team makeover and the same goes for some of the ushers.

LETS GO METS!

By David O'Brien

September 20, 2008 11:06 AM | Link to this

JC from UT, haven’t heard anything at all to make me believe Cox is losing patience with Kelly’s defense. Then again, Cox doesn’t always reveal, even in body language or off-the-record comments, what he thinks entirely about a player. Remember, it’s rare that he’s as openly critical of anyone as he’s been of Reyes.

But defense, I don’t get a sense that’s an issue with Cox when it comes to Kelly….

RICO, yeah, that was a cool night all around at the Ga. Theatre. Apt description of our man McMurtry — looks like Weird Al, sounds like Lou Reed. That baritone voice of his is so perfect for delivering his brilliant tunes, so much gravitas in the voice to match that of the lyrics….

By Lou Vales

September 20, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this

Just took note of Chipper’s HR’s and RBI’s Those are ALMOST (well, not really that close) Jorge Cantu numbers.

AND he will be a YEAR OLDER next year, so you believe he won’t be MORE injury prone??

Go to “Google” and type in “Aging Process”. I don’t believe Larry EVER used performance enhancing drugs—See, I like something about him”——and without “HELP” everyone ages a little more every year.

Larry DOES NOT see anywhere close to 120 games next year. AND I believe you would be quite surprised at the Market Value of an aging, injury prone, primarily singles hitter. Now in the AL he could DH, BUT he is still just a “bad bed” in a Ritz Carlton from being out for 2 weeks.

By David O'Brien

September 20, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this

Rob Murphy. Remember that name, Tomahawk Choppers. You are going to see a lot of this kid (22) in the coming years. And with tons of envy, I might add. Rob Murphy. Remember that name. The Braves pitchers sure will. You are seeing the future NL batting title winner. The Wizard

OK, we’ve got it. Rob Murphy. We’re securing a spot for in the memory banks. Rob Murphy. Batting champion of the future. Rob Murphy. Thanks, Wizard, we’re committing it to memory. Rob Murphy. Done.

By Cooper

September 20, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this

DOB. Do you believe Bobby’s comment in the blog above “no one’s job is safe” applies to all the players or just some mini list of guys who are so obviously horrible that even Bobby has given up on them?

Apart from McCann, maybe Escobar , JJ, Chipper (if healthy) and Gonzo I don’t see anyone who should be safe. Even of this list McCann & Chipper may be the only two that don’t get penciled into a trade scenario.

By Metropolitan Man

September 20, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this

Wow, Glavine pulling for the METS. This is bizarro world.

http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/baseball/mets/2008/09/19/2008-09-19tomglavinestillcomingtogripswithm.html

By MetMan butt

September 20, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this

The little hairs on my pale white cheeks spruced up with enjoyment while Reyes ran like a geek….Oh, what’s that, here comes the Mets bullpen, you see…they really stink up the joint… Oh wait, that’s just me

By mbatl

September 20, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this

Even taking into account Chipper missing about 25 games, the Braves THIRD BASEMEN as a whole (Chipper, Prado, Infante, etc), lead the NL in hits, average, OBP, SLG and OPS. 6th in HR, 5th in RBi, and 3rd in runs scored.

If Chipper declines rapidly, obviously that’s a problem, but it’s a bit of a panic to suggest a guy with a .362/.466/.567 line is “losing it.” His power has been a little down, and his BA with RISP a little disappointing at .290 (which is not bad, and more or less a matter of luck).

We’ve got enough problems on this team without imagining one at 3B.

By richbrave

September 20, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this

ncscoots:

Your take on REYES is why I say there will be a vote of no confidence in the current coaching staff once BC is gone, barring a first place ‘09 finish of course.

By David O'Brien

September 20, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this

Cooper, I think McCann, Chipper and Jurrjens are only absolute locks to be in their current roles next season, though I also believe there’s very little chance that Escobar or Kotchman would not be back. Obviously Moylan will be back, coming off surgery. And I don’t see them trading Gonzalez, while he’s still affordable. Or Hudson, who won’t be back until last month or so of the season.

By David O'Brien

September 20, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this

Lou Vales, you’re one of the angrier fellas on the ol’ blog, aren’t you? By the way, not the Ritz-Carlton in NYC. The Braves only stay in Ritz-Carltons in D.C. and Phoenix.

By Brian

September 20, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this

DOB- If you were one of 42 Marlins fans, you be a bitter, jealous person too!

By Cooper

September 20, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this

Thanks DOB. That seems like a good list of keepers and leaves lots of room to at least try to improve the team.

I am a little perplexed that they decided to keep all the coaches before the season was over and they could do a calm and objective review and look at what options there were in the open market and minors.

Assume they did that but it feels like a hasty review given the timing etc.

Now having said that just b/c they all have jobs does not mean that some of them might find themselves in AA or AAA if some interesting options pop up elsewhere for the ML club? :)

By Tomas

September 20, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this

I think Kelly has been much better defensively in the second half, until this week when he had a mental error and didn’t turn the DP, and the error yesterday when he dropped the ball.

Kelly has 136 games with 244 PO, 12 errors, and 80 DP’s, with a 982% fielding percentage.

Utley has 152 games with 324 PO, 13 errors, and 99DP’s, with a 983% fielding percentage.

Rickie Weeks has 114 games with 250 PO, 14 errors, and 79 DP’s, and a 976% fielding percentage.

Dan Uggla has 136 games with 284 PO, 12 errors, and 79 DP’s, and a 982% fielding percentage.

Brandon Phillips has 140 games with 298 PO, 7 errors, and 85 DP’s, and 990% fielding percentage.

Orlando Hudson has 105 games with 200 PO, 9 errors, and 60 DP’s, and 982% fielding percentage.

Robinson Cano has 151 games with 292 PO, 13 errors, and 97 DP’s, and 983% fielding percentage.

I think Kelly doesn’t have good range, but has improved with the glove this year. He has a 982 fielding percentage, that’s what most second basemen have.

By Lou Vales

September 20, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this

David, Angry??? Only when people don’t get it.

I noticed NOBODY responded to my query about what Larry would do with a 1 point lead in the batting race and the option to sit or play the last game. Maybe nobody answered because the TRUTH can be painful.

AND DAVID, What would Pujols, Berkman, and other great players, that you have a feel for, do in that situation??

I’ll take a non-response as a response.

By David O'Brien

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

Cooper: No, sorry. That’s not how I read it. Actually, there is no room for interpretation in the first sentence of the release regarding the coaching staff returning intact. It read:

ATLANTA, Ga. - Atlanta Braves Executive Vice President and General Manager Frank Wren and Manager Bobby Cox announced today that all six members of the Club’s Major League coaching staff will return in the same role in 2009.

By snowball's chance

September 20, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this

DOB, Thanks for not jumping on me when I asked about Chipper’s chances of winning the batting title. I had checked a legitimate site and they claimed that walks were not AB’s. I know they don’t count as an at bat when calculating batting averages but this site claimed walks were not figured into total AB’s. It didn’t make any sense that a batter would be penalized for having patience at the plate. I have a film recommendation. Wristcutters: a love story. I watched it because Tom Waits has a part in it. Waits fans will enjoy it.

By Tomas

September 20, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this

I don’t think Jo-jo is going to make it, unless he pulls a Tom Glavine an has a complete 360 and pulls it together. Bobby has given him a lot of chances to prove himself, and he hasn’t done anything to compensate that faith on him. I think it’s time to trade him like they did with Kyle Davies last year.

By David O'Brien

September 20, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this

Maybe nobody answered because the TRUTH can be painful.Lou Vales

That, or nobody cares about your hypothetical scenarios. Or, unlike you, a lot of folks are watching college football or enjoying beautiful weather, rather than trying so hard to antagonize bloggers on a Saturday afternoon.

By Mitchell

September 20, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB,

I remember Joe and Boog listed their favorite road hotels a while back but I only saw their #5 pick which was the Ritz in D.C.

Thinking about it now you probably didn’t see that for obvious reasons, it was on TV (I guess if it was so obvious I wouldn’t have said “it was on TV”), but what are your favorite hotels on the road?

And are there many Braves fans who try to meet them outside the hotel before or after the game? I’m inclined to say there aren’t cause Braves fans are lame.

By Lou Vales

September 20, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this

Brian, They have LESS than 42 fans!! That makes the whole thing—winning more World Series than the Atlanta Braves and still being in this race—-all the more amazing. It would be like Curacao playing against Brazil and predicating who you would root for upon what team has more FANaticS.

Do the players on this team seem to care about there being 600 fans for a recent afternoon game??

How many games would it take Atlanta to score 14 runs against the Phillies??

Anybody willing to bet—if they could and if it was legal—-that we have seen the last of “Larry Ripken, Jr” this year??

By Steve from OH

September 20, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

Coach, Chipper is second in MLB in EqA, behind only Albert Pujols (Pujols: .368, Chipper: .359).

Chipper is also 4th in MLB in VORP, ahead of ALL MLB 3rd basemen (including ARod and the Golden Boy, David Wright, who is 13th).

You also forgot to add that Chipper leads major league 3rd basemen in OBP (by a large margin, might I add).

I really don’t think he’s putting the Braves at a competitive disadvantage by only playing 130 games at his position, especially when we have capable backups in Martin Prado and Omar Infante that play well above replacement level.

I’d certainly like him to play more, but since he’s putting up these types of numbers (and especially since Baseball Prospectus projects him to be productive until at least the age of 40), I don’t think he’s going anywhere, and I think the Braves know this as well. Having the league’s best third baseman and (arguably) MLB’s second or third best offensive player playing 4 out of every 5 team games does NOT put any team at a “competitive disadvantage.”

I mean, seriously, these are the kinds of players you want on your team.

By Jake

September 20, 2008 1:06 PM | Link to this

Yeah Lou Vales but miami ain’t curacao. It’s more people in that metropolitan area than in the atlanta area. It’s one thing when you don’t have a large pool of fans to draw from but you do. It’s pathetic how those people don’t support that team. They blame the stadium but that’s not it. They came to that stadium before when they were winning and they can still showup for the sorry dolphins.

By Lou Vales

September 20, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this

David, If the answer was “YES”, it would take one minute to type in the response.

Not trying to antagonize you David. Just wanted your opinion. Never walked in the shoes of a MLB beat writer, but I can understand the difficulty of posting an answer to that question. You do have to go in the locker room every day.

Maybe after he has retired you can give an opinion. My opinion is he’s done for the year unless Pujols surges. I will come on here and say I’m wrong if he plays, because that is the RIGHT thing to do.

By Fred

September 20, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this

Mitchell, Not only are you rude, but you were absolutely incorrect on your last post. I travel to Chicago (from Atlanta) every year to catch the Braves/Cubs at Wrigley. The team stays at the Westin on Michigan Avenue. There are always Braves fans hanging around the hotel trying to catch players and get autographs. I also went to Pittsburgh a couple years ago and there were Braves fans outside that Westin, where I was staying with a friend. Check the facts before making ridiculous statements.

By McFann Ô

September 20, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this

Anybody watching this Tech game? ; ) Whoo! They’ve got it going today!

One other note from the game last night: BP was fun to watch. Our pitchers were making some nice plays in the OF; Hampton did a little dance during Walk Of Life (love that song)…

INTERCEPTION!! Nice.

By Dumb As The Day Is Long

September 20, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this

That was a really great story you told about meeting Buddy Carlisle’s wife.

Really really great story. It was very enjoyable and long and just great.Mitchell

I absolutely positively refuse to believe your crap about being 49. If you are a day over 16 you seriously need to see a shrink.

By McFann Ô

September 20, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

MetMan Great game, the METS did something the philthies couldn’t, beat the bravesat Turner.

What? The Fillies won every game at Turner Field, that was the Mets first win at Turner Field this year. What are you talking about?

By The Daddy of Vales

September 20, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this

Daddy loves you Vales and wants to hug you. Anything to make you cease begging for attention from strangers just because daddy didn’t give enough to you as a child.

And Daddy is sorry he couldn’t afford to send you to Bolles, You weren’t intelligent enough anyway.

By N Nine

September 20, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

we all agree JOJO had rough rookie year (07). Then started bad this year. BUT then he went on a good roll. He had good outing in like 5 out of 6 starts and we all thought he was finally blooming out of his shell, that is until he fell off the radar. We all started to believe in mid-season he could be good. Remember that small period? He has no confidence right now. It seems he puts up 4inn. with 6 runs every game. Future prediction: AAA(09)

LOU Your a miserable human being! You have now become a joke and no one should consider reading your pathetic blog. I know i won’t…

By N Nine

September 20, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this

funny stuff: Russ Ortiz is attempting to comeback! He threw for teams and can you believe it that 4y 33m(D’backs) contract ending this month! we all knew that was a mistake day one…haha

By Lou Vales

September 20, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this

David, Read the responses of your readership. This is what you have chosen to do. YET YET—-Nary an individual who responds to what Larry Ripken, Jr. would do in a Charcter Defining Situation. Now you can dismiss that all you want with rationales like “People are watching college football games”, but you know what?? In the amount of time it takes to post these intellectual responses they could anser with one word—Yes or No—The Question:

Does Larry play a final game of a season with a 1 point lead in the batting race??

I say No.

David, Yes or No?? An opinion?? Then go back to watching college football. I’m doing both right now with a modicum of effort.

Yes or No—-I think the answer says something. Don’t you??

By David O'Brien

September 20, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

Never walked in the shoes of a MLB beat writer, but I can understand the difficulty of posting an answer to that question. You do have to go in the locker room every day.Lou Vales

Oh, the psychology. Such wit. So clever. It never ends.

By the way, I enjoy most of the readership’s responses. Yours just don’t amuse or interest me.

But that’s probably just me. I’m sure there are plenty of people who find your comments and theories interesting.

By Vales' Daddy

September 20, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

Vales - who cares? Shut up!

By Vales' Doctor

September 20, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

Lou Vales used to be Louise…you know…before the surgery..

By mbatl

September 20, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this

DOB, wondering about the chances of Matt Diaz coming back next year. I know he got off to a bad start this year, and then the injury — but as it stands right now, he’s about the only OF we have who can hit LH pitching. Even if Schafer makes the team, he really struggled against LHP this year at Miss.

I’m hoping Matt’s back, even if initially as a 4th OF. But, guess he’ll cost a few mil.

By Do Not Use Your Real Name

September 20, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

Lou Vales Profile on Topix.com. Probably our friend, as it’s a Marlins blog.

By brent a.

September 20, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this

I went last night (after thinking I wasn’t going back again this year - as the Braves record when I attend was 0-5).

My takeaways:

For the 2nd time in 3 trips, I was handed good seats before I even got to the ticket window. So that was nice.

I thought the Braves played a fun, competitive game; however,

disappointing not to see McCann start, and also disappointing to see Chipper get pulled. disappointing to see us only score one run with the bases loaded and nobody out in 5th also disappointing to see us blow a run-down. Perhaps most disappointing, though, was the fact that we have J. Tavarez throwing a key inning in a pennant race (the Mets-Phillies-Marlins race, that is) I know, we have injuries, and not many alternatives. It’s just sad when you’re trying to beat a rival with play-off aspirations, and after tying the score and gaining momentum, you throw Tavarez out there. Kind of sucks a lot of fun out of pennant race baseball.

Lastly, one of the reasons I went was to see the fireworks. They are usually pretty good, and I hadn’t been on a Friday night all year.

But, due to heavy winds, the show was canceled and delayed until tonight. And, despite the fact that I am 99% certain I could probably get free tickets again, I’m just not in the mood to see my 7th Braves loss of the year.

By David O'Brien

September 20, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this

mbatl, I think there’s a good chance Diaz will be back for that purpose — as either a platoon or extra outfielder/pinch-hitter to face primarily lefties.

By McFann Ô

September 20, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this

Brent A.—

I thought the game was fun, too. The saddest part for me was that it was the last game we’ll go to until next year.

disappointing not to see McCann start

Not if you had binoculars and a good view of the dugout!

8 )

By Mitchell

September 20, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this

Who said I was 49? Dumb as the Day is Long, are you retarded?

I’m assuming you’re referencing an old post I wrote a while back.

I took issue with people routinely calling me a “teenager” and in response I said that I was a mature 43 year old unemployed house-husband who cries himself to sleep at night on his daughter’s Jonas brothers pillow case.

See that was a joke. Why would anybody say that? But now I suppose I’m condescending to you like a snot nosed teenager would. What you don’t know is that I cry myself to sleep on my Miley Cyrus pillow case. And I don’t have a daughter, the pillow case is all mine. Shows what you know.

But was that or was that not the most pointless story you’ve ever heard? I mean, I thought we were supposed to make fun of the Met fans. I’ll stop though if that’s what you’re saying.

Okay, now I am sounding like a condescending teenager. I apologize. I like to think most times I try not to be overly critical of the Braves and not to pick on other people. But it’s okay. We’re talking, we’re working it out.

A final note: I think you meant to say that if I actually was 49, or 43 as I originally wrote, I should see a shrink. If instead I was 16 it would be more appropriate to tell me to stop being a douche.

And Fred, I didn’t know there was database recording the number of fans who either travel to other cities or go to the hotel the team is staying at in whatever city they live in. I honestly didn’t know they kept stats on that, otherwise I would have checked “the facts”.

Okay, now I’m being a douche. Sorry.

It was a harmless statement. I was/am ready and willing to defend Braves fans should a loser Met blogger attempt to take that and run with it.

There isn’t another fan base in the game that is as welcoming and appreciative of former players when they come back with another team. Tom Glavine would be the obvious exception. We still loved Julio last year even though he couldn’t catch up to a Jamie Moyer fastball. Ryan Langerhaans still had mascots after he got cut last year and he was absolutely terrible.

And for the record I too have travelled to see the Braves in other cities. And though I watch almost every game, I’ve only been to ten games in the last two seasons so perhaps I don’t have much of a right to criticize the low attendance. It didn’t help that they only won two of the games I went to.

I know the TV ratings are good and though the players are too stoic to admit to it, I’m sure the fan turn out upsets them. They still deserve better.

But hey, at least I didn’t say the Brave fans were “gay”. I managed to summon the maturity to change it to “lame”. That oughta count for something.

No?

By Jake

September 20, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this

I don’t see what’s with all the complaints about Taverez as he has been pretty good for us this season. He got a ground ball from Delgado which just happen to find a hole. Always nice to see Delgado actually hit the ball on the ground against us. Kelly Johnson makes an error by dropping a ball that’s a sure out, but surely that’s Taverez’s fault. He gives up a double then promptly had the guy picked off only to have our infield fudge that. I mean who else do you put out there. Everybody else is overworked. Another short outing for Jojo and we had to dip into the bullpen early.

By LKS

September 20, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this

Mcfann I felt so bad for you last night when I heard Mccann wasnt playin ;( I wanted to tell ya that if you could make it to the game tomorrow I have two extra tickets for 2nd row behind the plate(behind sun trust seats). I would rather give them to someone I know is a true fan then just somebody I pass at the game. Plus ur blogs always crack me up. Oh…and im a 24 yr old female (so u don’t think I am some old man tryin to lure u ;) )

By jimcpa

September 20, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this

chipper is winning ecause he has had abs NO pressure on him for the last month..and will barely exceed minimum ab’s..he should be ashamed if he wins the award..pujols far more valuable..what a waste of season ticker dollars..been really missing those season ticket sellin francouer commercials..where the refund line?

By TheCutMan

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

I’d respectively like to know the 2009 PLAN for the Braves. Go young? Get veteran talent to fill in weak ares (more of the same), or stay the current course because there are 2.4 million folks in Atlanta content with the product as is.

I would submit that the best course would be to admit to a re-build, focus again on insisting on the fundamentals in the team’s training in the off-season and not paint unrealistic expectations above the outcome realized in 2008. Oh yes, go young.

By McFann Ô

September 20, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this

LKS—

That’s very nice of you to offer! Unfortunately, Saturday nights aren’t good for us. : (

But thanks for thinking of me!

It wasn’t too bad not getting to see McCann play. Like I said, I had my binos, and our seats were at just the right angle for dugout-spying. Plus he’d stunk at the plate the last two games we ‘d gone to.

By LKS

September 20, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this

Mcfann

Thats cool. I get lucky by getting these seats so I like to share ;) FYI-it is for Sunday’s game if that makes any difference.

By RMR

September 20, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this

I know we are looking to acquire a big bat this offseason as one our needs to improve the team for next year and the years to come. One big bat will not cure the offense but if we were add a couple of bats, we could take the pressure off of Chipper and McCann. We’d also compensate for the slowing maturity of Francoeur, as a hitter. Two players I’d like to see the Braves go after- Brandon Phillips and Josh Willingham. Why these 2 players? Well, I thought of them because they are available, and plus both hitters hit well against our division foes, Willingham hits .308 vs the Phillies & .347 vs the Nats and Phillips hits .304 vs the Muts & .Nats as well. The Braves have 40mil towards next year’s payroll. Phillips was not deemed as one of the untouchables by the Reds, meaning he could be had with the right package. We could start with Kelly Johnson and Infante, and add a young pitcher or two. Willingham is going to arb-eligible next year and may very well be deemed as too expensive for the Marlins, so we could swoop in and grab him. I can’t see Willingham getting more than 4-5mil in arbitration for next year. You trade for him and aggressively try to acquire Phillips. Their combined salaries shouldn’t go past 12-13mil. Instead of going after Dunn who is lefty,we’d be looking to get 2 more RH’d bats. That leaves 27mil to attempt to acquire 2 to 3 starters. I would go after Brad Penny(I believe he will get his option declined and thinks it is a good idea to get him since Roger McDowell did work with him and he is an ace), Oliver Perez(even though Boras is his agent, you have to like a lefty who throws 90+ with movement), Pavano(a risk but he is only going to be 32 plus he is righty who throws pitches with sinking action, we can’t have all these fly ball pitchers- we want to actually win more games than this year). We can talk to Glavine, Smoltz and Hampton about coming back for incentive laden deals. Talk to Smoltz and Glavine come back as relievers. I suggested all these pitchers because two of the 3 are Type B free agents and Perez is the Type A. Our draft pick is also protected. Our lineup would look like this: Anderson/Blanco-CF Escobar-SS Chipper-3B Phillips-2B McCann-C Willingham-LF Francoeur-RF Kotchman-1B P

Rotation: 1. Penny 2. Perez 3. Jurrjens 4. Pavano 5. Hampton

People may disagree with rotation but I believe we would win many games. With a bullpen of Smoltz, Moylan, Soriano and Gonzalez after the 6 inning a much more relaxing feeling than this years group. Just my two cents…Let’s see what happens this offseason…

By Steve

September 20, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this

DOB, as beat writer, do players usually give you the cold shoulder when you have to write something less than complimentary?

How do you balance printing hard truths with having to get quotes, etc.?

By David O'Brien

September 20, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this

Chipper’s out of lineup, probably will be for a couple days. Said he has no doubt he’ll be back before season ends, just not sure of day. Took a “dose pack” of inflammatories last night, second time in a month, but it didn’t have much effect. Said when he took it in late August it helped him for a about a week.

He came out last night because he said it was hurting to the point where he couldn’t get anything on a throw and couldn’t swing well enough to get the bat head where he needed it.

Yunel also out of lineup again.

Speaking of lineup: 1. Josh A., 2. Prado (3B), 3. Kelly, 4. Mac, 5. Infante (SS), 6. Kotchman, 7. Francoeur, 8. B. Jones (LF), 9. Campillo.

By Fred

September 20, 2008 5:29 PM | Link to this

Mitchell, Obviously there is no hard data regarding Braves fans traveling to road games and hanging out by the team hotel. But you certainly could have put that question out to those on the blog who may have knowledge about the situation (including DOB). Instead, you were just critical of braves fans because you assumed they didn’t hang out by the team hotel. There was no need to be insulting, but it is just a reflection on you.

By David O'Brien

September 20, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this

Steve: No, with exception of a few players over the years who didn’t understand that it wasn’t personal. Most get that we’re just doing our job.

By Steve

September 20, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this

DOB, do many beat writers wind up writing a “tell all book” ala something like “Ball Four”? (My favorite all time baseball book).

I don’t recall seeing any about the Braves, or other team for that matter.

Not looking for gossip, just the observations you have of your life traveling with and writing about a baseball team.

BTY, your blog on Skip was the best sports material I’ve ever read. Thanks

By Wayne

September 20, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this

A fitting end to the last stretch of the 2008 season; Chipper out for a few days, Escobar day to day.

Did I leave anyone out?

What a year!

We can only hope that next year, good team or not, we do not go over the league average of injuries to our team.

By McFann Ô

September 20, 2008 5:50 PM | Link to this

LKS—

Dang! I feel bad having to turn down such sweet seats! But Sundays are hard ones for us to go to—with the time we go to Church, and all. (Don’t know why I thought you meant Saturday, did I think this was Friday?)

That’s really nice of you, though!

Thanks for the lineup, Chief! I hope Chipper cann comeback soon!

Hey, you people want a John Grove update? Ah, well, here it is anyway:

He’s back in the lineup. He’s 1-2 with a walk and a run scored. His AVG stands at .286.

Cubs are winning 5-4, and Pujols is 0-2 with a walk and a run scored.

By McFann Ô

September 20, 2008 5:52 PM | Link to this

CHECK IT OUT:

John Grove was caught stealing!

Hehe…But if I make fun of him, it’ll come back to bite me really hard…So I won’t make fun of ya, Grove…I won’t say another word…

By Anders Mouth

September 20, 2008 5:56 PM | Link to this

I’m loud, stinky, and mirkey… David Wright is my beef jerky… I like to spit and shout… Mr. Wright’s thighs knock me out… He’s such a cheese ball, that you say… if he smells me at the ballpark… he can’t stay away

By Go Gimper go!

September 20, 2008 6:18 PM | Link to this

Pujols is 0-3 today and is down to .351.

Chipper Jones: .362

By David O'Brien

September 20, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this

Pujols 0-for-3, .351.

By David O'Brien

September 20, 2008 6:53 PM | Link to this

I didn’t realize this until I saw it today: Mickey Mantle’s .365 average in 1957 was the highest ever for a switch-hitting with the minimum number of qualifying at-bats.

By Coach (Skip will be missed)

September 20, 2008 7:11 PM | Link to this

Chipper Jones is hitting .362, which is the highest BA in his career.

He also has 46 extra base hits, which is the lowest total in his career.

Chipper’s OBP is .466, the highest in his career.

And again, his 21 HR’s and 72 RBI are the lowest season totals in his career.

Read between the lines.

By Wayne

September 20, 2008 7:14 PM | Link to this

Saw where you were quoted on MLBTrade Rumors website concerning Frenchy. Your statements were certainly not news on the blog.

My question: If KC, then who/what would be the bounty? Pure speculation, of course.

By Jeff321

September 20, 2008 7:16 PM | Link to this

Brad Penny in our rotation?!

Have you completely lost your mind?

By Steve from OH

September 20, 2008 7:21 PM | Link to this

Read between the lines.

……that Chipper Jones is really good at hitting baseballs?

By cabravesfan

September 20, 2008 7:24 PM | Link to this

wow- just imagine the numbers Kelly could have put up this year if he had been any kind of consistant…

By Braveheart

September 20, 2008 7:30 PM | Link to this

Games missed between the age of 30-36:

Mickey Mantle: about 290 games

Chipper: about 220 games

I guess the Mick was a pompous, prissy wuss too……..LOL. Gimme a break

Mattingly, Brett, Mickey, Griffey, Will Clark and on and on and on ….. all had their bodies start breaking down at the age of 30 ….. that’s the way it was b4 the rest all mysteriously found the fountain of youth in 1993

If you think he likes missing games, you’re nuts. Why did he go out there for 155+ games for the first decade or so of his career? He wants the batting title but he also wants 3000 and 500 more.

Wouldn’t make sense to miss games when you are at the hottest you’ve ever been in your career ……… an intelligent being would think the best time for him to do damage getting to 3000 and 500 would be when he is going as well as he has this season …… this leads any intelligent being to believe he must really be hurting to always miss so many games ,,,,,,

I guess since you didn’t go to Bolles like you wanted to, you never learned the pompous power of deductive reasoning

By David O'Brien

September 20, 2008 7:32 PM | Link to this

This barely even resembles the Pedro we used to know. Seriously. Shell of the pitcher he was. Kinda sad, really. The man was wicked for a long time, and the best pitcher in the game for a few years.

By jed

September 20, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this

this youtube clip’s not the greatest version, but the song, fireline road, is one of the best things i’ve heard in some time. saw him play it this summer at a show and it gave chills. it’s dark, but the reality he’s describing is even darker and unfortunately all too common:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qpi39g-a8Is

By cabravesfan

September 20, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this

DOB- I just had the same thoughts about Pedro. I remember watching him pitch before all the problems with his arm and thinking what a joy it was to see- even when he was pitching against my teams…he was so spot on with his control but threw so hard- and he always looked like he was having fun…it is sad to see someone who was so good struggle like he is right now

By Jeff321

September 20, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this

Pedro is going to get WORKED in the playoffs.

Kotchman is turning in to quite the stud. I bet he gets 200+ hits next year.

By David O'Brien

September 20, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this

What an awful call. Anderson beat Delgado to the bag clearly, not really even that close. Looked like ump wasn’t far enough from line to get a good angle.

By Steve from OH

September 20, 2008 7:46 PM | Link to this

Hmmm…86, right down the middle to Prado. DOB’s right about Pedro. Just a shell of his former greatness.

But man, was he ever good when he had it going, though

By David O'Brien

September 20, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this

Jed, that was one of the many highlights from McMurtry’s show at the Ga. Theatre on Wednesday. And I agree with you — the song is so powerful, and sung with such conviction, it gives you chills watching him sing it.

By Mitchell

September 20, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this

Notice the difference when the starting pitcher can’t get it done. I’d agree with DOB that it’s “kinda sad”, because it sort of is, but only if we win.

I like what I’m seeing so far, except for that idiot umpire at first base who just took a run away from us

Let’s just add on and hang onto this one.

Campillo needs to buckle down.

By Jake

September 20, 2008 7:54 PM | Link to this

wow- just imagine the numbers Kelly could have put up this year if he had been any kind of consistant…

That’s the frustrating thing about him. He gives you glimpses of how good he can be then disapears for a while.

On another note the ump just cost us a run. Anderson clearly beat Delgado and even if the ump couldn’t see that the tie is suppose to go to the runner. Oh well.

By McFann Ô

September 20, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this

OK! Great defense from Kotchy, eh? He’s got a good glove!

By McFann Ô

September 20, 2008 8:00 PM | Link to this

Arg….297…

Come on!! Quit makin’ first pitch outs!

By keylargo

September 20, 2008 8:04 PM | Link to this

Hello - my name is KeyLargo and I went to Bolles.

LOL, I almost feel guilty for all the money and status I have from going to school on the St. Johns River in Jacksonville. Well, maybe not.

But Bolles is a beautiful school that prepares you for any college and with a lot of history behind it. It was an all boys school when I went but my daughter went there from elementary school on. (it is a K - 12 school).

Of course you all know that the mascot was none other than the Bolles Bulldog. Some parts of Florida aren’t so bad.

By Mitchell

September 20, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this

Braves need to add on, I’m going to p** if Jeff can’t get a hit here.

For the love of God, just make a productive out.

By cabravesfan

September 20, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this

Jake

That was kind of my underlying point regarding Kelly- when he is hitting like he is now he may be the best pure hitter on this team…but when he goes cold he looks like he would struggle hitting off a tee…

By jed

September 20, 2008 8:13 PM | Link to this

dob—

he played fireline road as the encore. i’d never heard the song before, but he addresses the subject matter directly, as it should be addressed, because our culture can not bring itself to talk about some of the uglier causes of drug addiction. here are the lyrics:

http://www.cowboylyrics.com/lyrics/mcmurtry-james/fireline-road-25159.html

By Mitchell

September 20, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this

Way to go Braves. Keep them in the game.

I don’t trust Campillo right now.

Should be 4-0, but I’ll just let it go.

By David O'Brien

September 20, 2008 8:16 PM | Link to this

There is a huge crowd here, by the way. I’m a bit surprised. The standing-room only area in front of the massive Coke bottle is pretty full tonight, which is rare.

By nfieldr

September 20, 2008 8:34 PM | Link to this

@David O’Brien September 20, 2008 8:16 PM | Link to this There is a huge crowd here, by the way. I’m a bit surprised. The standing-room only area in front of the massive Coke bottle is pretty full tonight, which is rare.

I’ll bet the majority of them are Mets fans. sigh

By nfieldr

September 20, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this

See. Listen to that crowd on Pedro’s double. I hated that when I lived in ATL and went to games at the Ted.

By Mitchell

September 20, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this

Can you believe that not only have the Cubs not won the World Series in 100 years but that 1908 was the last time they made the playoffs in back to back years.

How hard is getting to the playoffs two years in a row in a century?

I mean, give them credit for ‘07 and ‘08. You had to win the pennant back then.

I have to say, I’ll be surprised if they don’t win it and yet I really don’t want them to win. But I also don’t think they will win, even though they should.

That doesn’t sound like it makes any sense but if you think about it real hard, it does.

Personally I’d love to see the Rays win it.

Wait. Personally I’d love to see the Braves win it. Just wanted to make that clear.

I’m sorry, the Braves are going to blow this thing. They should have knocked Pedro out by now.

By McFann Ô

September 20, 2008 8:47 PM | Link to this

Wow. Where is everybody on the blog tonight? Maybe (hopefully) they’re at the game?

Well, that hit got his AVG up to .299, but he made a mistake on the base paths it appears (that’s a rarity, no?)

Glavine is still in the booth? Dang…He’s like the Energizer Bunny: He just keeps going…and going…and going…and—

By Jake

September 20, 2008 8:47 PM | Link to this

A 2 run double given up to the pitcher. Then Mac gets doubled off by the pitcher after a leadoff single.

By Mitchell

September 20, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this

I’m gonna be sick if we lose this game.

I’m being a downer I realize but I can’t leave it be.

Campy’s gonna blow it. Unbelievable pitch Pedro.

He’ll give up a bomb to Delgado.

By brian

September 20, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this

looking ahead to the Braves OF of the future I assume the Braves have Schafer pencilled in at the CF spot and then Heyward at LF. Who knows if the BRaves will have Francoeur at the other corner? Gorkys could play the other corner OF but if I were the Braves I would try to send Gorkys to the Marlins to get Mike Stanton as our RF of the future. He still has work to do but that man can hit. He is huge and can run well - only 18 years old. Close to 40 HR in A. Which I assume is why the Marlins probably would not move him, but I read on the Marlins website where they ranked their prospects he is for some reason out of their top 10.

By brian

September 20, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this

looking ahead to the Braves OF of the future I assume the Braves have Schafer pencilled in at the CF spot and then Heyward at LF. Who knows if the BRaves will have Francoeur at the other corner? Gorkys could play the other corner OF but if I were the Braves I would try to send Gorkys to the Marlins to get Mike Stanton as our RF of the future. He still has work to do but that man can hit. He is huge and can run well - only 18 years old. Close to 40 HR in A. Which I assume is why the Marlins probably would not move him, but I read on the Marlins website where they ranked their prospects he is for some reason out of their top 10.

By Wayne

September 20, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this

Dierkes talks about some possible starting pitching that is available. To me, I am always surprised at the people that we end up getting.

Are any of these names notable? Redding, Sonnanstine, Jackson, Snell, Robertson, Washburn, Duchsherer, Bonser or Bannister.

Isn’t Duke from Oakland hurt? And maybe Robertson?

I like a couple of these guys. Challenge is to pick someone who has had an off year (Francoeur) that you think will have a comeback.

By cabravesfan

September 20, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this

McFann just an fyi- Smoltz did the same thing last night- he came into the booth around the 3rd and stayed for the rest of the game

wish i was at the game…never been to turner field (or atlanta for that matter)-only get the see the team once a year if i am lucky

By brent a.

September 20, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this

It’s a beautiful week-end to watch baseball.

Last night was great, plus, there are going to be fireworks tonight (my second plug for the Publix show today.)

I would’ve put the % of Mets fans last night at 30% and that might be high.

So no, doubtful that it is a “majority” of Mets fans, unless there has been a drastic shift since last night.

Instead, I think that the Braves are popular, and people have gotten into the habit of going to the Braves final homestand, for all of the “fan appreciation stuff”. Plus, they are playing the Mets, and before our season fell to pieces, this seemed like it might’ve been a valuable series.

Throw in the fact that construction on the connector is through - hooray! - this is a perfect night for a ball game.

By David O'Brien

September 20, 2008 9:15 PM | Link to this

That left side of the infield tonight, with Prado and Infante, hasn’t exactly been stellar with the leader.

By Francoeur's Destiny is to be a Royal in '09

September 20, 2008 9:16 PM | Link to this

Francoeur for Bannister.

Francoeur for Meche.

Francoeur and a prospect or two for DeJesus.

It all sounds good.

By keylargo

September 20, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this

Dawgs 14 - 0

By McFann Ô

September 20, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this

cabravesfan Smoltz did the same thing last night- he came into the booth around the 3rd and stayed for the rest of the game

Yeah, but I like listening to Smoltz…he’s funny! Glav’s OK…

You’ve never been to Turner Field? Man…That’s too bad…Even sadder is what you said after that. Boy, I’m sorry!

By David O'Brien

September 20, 2008 9:23 PM | Link to this

Pedro threw 116 pitches in six innings. Got to hand it to him, he limited the damage after that first inning.

By David O'Brien

September 20, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this

Season-high crowd of 50,124, a sellout.

By cabravesfan

September 20, 2008 9:34 PM | Link to this

McFann

It’s on my list… I did get to see Charlie Morton’s debut down in Anaheim this year- that was fun:)

By McFann ;Ô;

September 20, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this

cabravesfan—

Well that’s cool that you got to see Charlie’s debut! I hope you cann make it out this way sometime. Braves games are great when you get the Chop going!

I feel bad turning down those tickets from LKS…That’s the second time we’ve been offered seats up there and had to turn them down! (The first time was because we were already going to the game.) Sunday games we just sorta have to plan ahead, so we cann go to Church on Saturday night. But I really appreciate the thought!

Good win tonight! Josh Anderson had a great night at the plate—“4-4”, right? ; )

Night, all!

By BA

September 20, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this

That should clear out most of the Mutt’s dredge in here. Worthless, second-rate fans rooting for a bunch of choking dogs.

Maybe if the local economy gets a little worse, some of these scrubs will start moving back to their crime-infested northeastern cities.

1996 or 2008, first place Braves or fourth place Braves, the Mutts will always soil themselves in Atlanta. And if we come up their, they’ll be disposed of in similar fashion. A fraud of a franchise. Kind of like the Marla- Dolphins with their bad movie set teal colored stadium. Worthless.

By LKS

September 20, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this

Mcfann

You don’t need to feel bad at all! Just thought you could get a second chance at seeing BMac have a big game…plus its the last one and all. Hope we win the series!!

Go Braves!!!!! Betcha we will be mut free tonight :)

By richbrave

September 20, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this

Isn’t it great to send METS fans scurrying for the exits like the gray horde they are wherever they’re located? GO BRAVES!!!!

By richbrave

September 20, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this

RAVE ON BA, RAVE ON. You tell ‘um.

By richbrave

September 20, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this

Hand PEDRO his hat and show him and the rest of that gang of chicken-chokers the door.!!!! “these people” took care of business tonight. A sell-out. WOW!!!!Thanks ATLANTA for standing tall. YTake a bow. ou’re lookin’ good.

By mets fan in atlanta

September 20, 2008 10:42 PM | Link to this

Hey fellas! I missed the game tonight—can anyone tell me the score?

Seriously, I had tickets for tonight but since i had to be in Columbus, GA all day, I wasn’t able to go tonight. I got home just in time to watch Mike Gonzalez rock and roll himself to another save.

I do have tickets tomorrow, and i plan on being there to watch Mike Pelfrey take care of business. I’ll be in my new David Wright jersey/shirt that i bought outside Turner Field Friday night.

You’re right about Pedro—he is the only starting pitcher i have zero confidence in right now. For all the talk about injuries on the Braves, if you look back at what the Mets have been through this year, you’ll find that the Mets have injuries even more serious perhaps. And they’ve occurred at the worst part of the year when there was nothing we could do about it. I.E. Maine going down, Wagner going down, Tatis going down, Easley going down, Heilman basically being shut down…all this in the past month, after the trade deadline.

But saying all this, I still feel confident about the Mets making the playoffs…Manuel has this team with the right mindset, they bounce back much faster. And the last few years, the wild card team has been the team of choice to make the world series…so I don’t care how they get to the party, as long as they’re invited.

By Mitchell

September 20, 2008 10:51 PM | Link to this

Me of little faith.

Sorry Jorge, I misunderestimated you.

I forgot what it’s like when the Braves are competitive and win big games.

Of course it’s only big because we beat the Mets. If we ever get to a point where we can’t beat the Mets, only then will I seriously have to consider whether I still want to be a fan of this team.

Unless, we happen to win 100 games but lose every game against them… I might be willing to make that compromise. Yeah, I don’t know.

But damn it feels good to be a gangster.

Go Braves. I’m sorry that I doubted you.

The Cobra is back.

By N Nine

September 20, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this

hopefully the annoying Muts fans will not dominate the late night blogging! It was ugly last night here!!!

THE CHIPPER JONES UPDATE:

CHIPPER- Watching the fireworks .362

Pujols 0-3 .351

Pujols is really slipping! Faster than I would have imagined!

By David O'Brien

September 20, 2008 11:03 PM | Link to this

Braves are 10-7 against the Mets. Go figure.

By AdirondackDave

September 20, 2008 11:05 PM | Link to this

Mets Fan in Atlanta — The final score was 4-2. Mets showed absolutely nothing with the stick tonight. Would have been shutout if Pedro hadn’t somehow managed a double with a couple guys on. It’s good to have confidence but don’t get your hopes too high. The club has some glaring weaknesses and the pressure of this coming week has to working on their psyches. Losing to this Chipper-less crew with it’s #5 starter can’t instill them with much confidence either. But who knows, maybe they’ll make it in under the wire.

By Jake

September 20, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this

No offense mets fan in atlanta but I would be feeling good about the mets making the playoffs right now because the only team playing worst than the mets have down the home stretch of the season is the Brewers. The Mets have struggled but with the play of the Brewers they don’t really have to worry about a challenge from anyone. I don’t know how Milwaukee screwed this one up two seasons in a row, especially after the addition of C.C. and the way he pitched. You are right in that Pedro is basically a shell of himself. I will however disagree with you about the injuries. You are talking about people going down at the end of the year, but at least they were there to do most of the work. We lost are best setup guy first to Tommy John way back in April. I think our closer pitched about 3 games before he went on the DL. Came back for about 3 or 4 more games then went down for the year. Gonzalez did not return to mid June but by them a lot of damage had already been done. John Smoltz was lost for the year in May. Mike Hampton didn’t make his season debut till the end of July. A guy who was suppose to start the second day of the season. Lost Tim Hudson to Tommy John in July. Lost our starting rightfielder some time in May. At one point in the season we were without our two best hitters(McCann to a concussion and Chipper to the D.L.) and had to feature a lineup that was half richmond braves for a week or so. Lost Tom Glavine early then lost him again soon after that for the year. Not to mention other little various injuries along the way to Chipper, Yunel, and Kotsay. A couple of months missed by Infante and Prado combined. Not to mention the time that Kotchman missed when his mother was ill. The mets situtation does not compare. The braves would have been fortunate to even have some of those people make it that far in the season. Not saying those injuries don’t hurt, but they definately don’t stack up to what the braves have delt with this year.

By Mitchell

September 20, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this

Hey mets fan in Atlanta,

I’m glad you’re here. You’re standing up for your team. Well done.

But let’s go back for a second:

For all the talk about injuries on the Braves, if you look back at what the Mets have been through this year, you’ll find that the Mets have injuries even more serious perhaps. And they’ve occurred at the worst part of the year when there was nothing we could do about it. I.E. Maine going down, Wagner going down, Tatis going down, Easley going down, Heilman basically being shut down…all this in the past month, after the trade deadline.

Are you on drugs? Don’t bring that s* on here. You should be ashamed.

By Greg in TN

September 20, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this

Evening gang…

Nice night at the ‘ol ballpark on Hank Aaron Drive and the Braves treated the big crowd to a big night from Josh Anderson and solid nights from the hill from Campillo, Ohman, Bennett and Gonzalez.

I was particularly pleased by the nights turned in by Bennett and Gonzo. KJ has very quietly amassed what is now an 18-game hitting streak. Campillo pitched well, a very welcome night on the mound after watching Jo-Jo Reyes struggle mightily last night.

It’s Pelfrey v. Parr tomorrow as the Braves send right-handed youngster to the mound for yet another audition for 2009. Pelfrey wasn’t exactly a world beater against the Nats on Tuesday, however he pitched well against the Braves in NY in August, getting a CG victory.

Isn’t it ironic that Jim Edmonds, former Cardinal, makes the last out for the Cubs against his old team to clinch the division today?

By richbrave

September 20, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this

PELFREY’s gonna’ take care of business all right. Only its gonna’ be personal and in the privacy of his hotel room.

By Brian

September 20, 2008 11:38 PM | Link to this

I don’t wish injury on anyone but, damn, it’s passed time for the Phillies to catch up on some injuries in ‘09! We talk smack so much about the Muts( they deserve it 98 percent of the time) but how about the Phillies being in there position? They’re ALL playing and right there with the Muts in the division? What this tells me is we have a decent shot at winning again next year if FW makes the right moves! Just gotta figure out a way to stomp them like the Muts this year!

By AdirondackDave

September 20, 2008 11:43 PM | Link to this

It’s looking good for Chipper and the batting title but lets not call it a done deal yet. We all know what Puhols is capable of and this 11-point lead could quickly change. Still, Puhols is probably tired like most of the other everyday players and I guess he’s having his share of physical problems as well. All considered, I like Chipper’s position and, if he holds this significant lead another 3 or 4 days, then I’d say Puhols chances will be nill. Sure would also like to see U Kno Who finish strong and move ahead of Mickey Mantle’s switch-hitter’s record of .365. Would be a great two-fer.

final thought… winning the battlng title at this high level at age 36 would clinch his HOF creds. He’s probably got ‘em anyway but this would make it obvious to one and all, I imagine.

By Run Heap Run

September 20, 2008 11:54 PM | Link to this

Woo! Both my teams won tonight!

Thanks for the link on the GQ article, DOB. I know I’ve only asked you about it a dozen times so I’m sure you put that in there just to shut me up. : )

By Brian

September 21, 2008 12:32 AM | Link to this

Just read some of the Muts qoutes and they’re b*** that B.Jones should’ve been called out. UHHH, wasn’t Anderson safe at first and called out and the next guy hits a double? I’m no genius but that would have scored Josh easily! So it all kinda evened out anyway, just don’t tell the SORE LOSERs that!!

By Lou Vales

September 21, 2008 12:32 AM | Link to this

David, Such ANGST!! I would have responded earlier, but I just returned from the Marlins-Phillies game. Came down for the Saturday and Sunday games. Disappointed to see so many people there—distracts from the ambieance. When you CAN’T sweep the Phillies, when you need to, you don’t deserve it. Next year they don’t go 73-0 heading into the 9th. NO TEAM duplicates numbers like that in successive years.

It was not too amazing to find out you are not entertained by my comments. It would go against human nature to be entertained by someone who has basically described you as too cowed to ask a pro athlete a question that might reveal his insights.

Wonder if someone writing for The Boston Globe, New York Post, New York Daily News, Philadelphia Inquirer, St Louis Post Dispatch and other papers in LITTLE tougher markets might find it pertinent to inquire of a Major League Baseball player his attitude towards backing into an NL Batting Title?? Now I’m NOT expecting crusty writing like Bill Conlin, Dick Young or journalists of that ilk, but how about a nice dash of Bob Ryan. Think they would ask the question—Well, one, as you will probably inform me CAN’T ask any questions.

But, Chipper has an 11 point lead and from his comments at MLB.com, he seems UNSURE of a return date. I believe that will be PREDICATED by events yet to unfold.

Outside of the Atlanta viewing and listening range, you would be surprised—No, I take that back, YOU would not be surprised, but your readers would be surprised—-at how prevalent attitudes, very similiar to mine, not only prevail but dominate concerning Chipper.

I do respect you for not banning me. That shows that you don’t mind reading negative stuff about yourself. I certainly don’t mind reading anything directed towards me. But since we have reached the stage where we are just insulting each other and nothing will arise from that—I will ban myself. I will only do one post to comment if I was wrong when I said Chipper has shut it down for the year. If he plays in one game, I will come back and say I was wrong. And I don’t go for this garbage of posting under multiple, or phony names—You know the GUTLESS thing——Therefore I will close by saying it’s been informative—for the most part—in reading your commentary. You are a good writer who is probably wasted covering sports. Should probably pull an Olberman or Patrick and realize this stuff is not all that relevant and move on.

There is a calamatious(Sp), still possible Global Economic Meltdown to ponder which might still serve to distract us all from off season acquisitions of an NL East team.

By Lou Vale's Eulogy

September 21, 2008 12:49 AM | Link to this

He came,

He blew,

He’s gone.

By Mitchell

September 21, 2008 12:56 AM | Link to this

I love the first part:

For all the talk about injuries on the Braves, if you look back at what the Mets have been through this year…

I love how we’re being asked to consider the impact of injuries on any other team than the Braves.

Seriously everybody, we need to stop being so self-righteous about the injuries. We could stand to be more fair and balanced.

Moving on…

Who knows what to expect from Parr tomorrow. I’d surely like to see the Braves win again and not for a second am I intimidated by Pelfrey. Talk about overrated. Maybe we don’t win, but we did win the season series and that makes me rather happy.

I’ve got a lot of people to thank and not a lot of time…

Kelly Johnson, where are you? There you are man, you got the grand slam in the first series at Turner Field. Couldn’t have done it without you.

Jair Jurrjens, you kept your compsosure on your first start at Shea and you held on for the win after giving up back to back walks with the bases loaded.

Chipper Jones, who could forget the hit you got against Johan Santana to lock up that 4 game sweep in May? I know I can’t.

Jeff Francoeur! Who would have thought? Your two run game tying single in the 8th inning of last week’s nationally televised Braves/Mets game in Shea Stadium lead to a third victory over Johan Santana in ‘08. You’re not completely worthless after all.

Wait, wait, wait… I’m forgetting someone. Greg Norton, you are my ambassador of Quan man. Whoo! Whoo!

The end

By Metropolitan Man

September 21, 2008 1:18 AM | Link to this

Blah, blah, blah. You got a win tonight to secure the series season win. Congradultaions! The METS will take the series tomorrow with Pelfrey taking it to you. Great game and atmosphere at the TED, another entertaining night in the stands. As you can see Pedro is not quite himself yet he single handedly gave his all in a losing cause. Time to erase this game and get back to the drwing board. The METS are still in a pennant race you know.

By BossLady

September 21, 2008 1:47 AM | Link to this

I was at the Friday game celebrating my birthday. I left the office early and was at the stadium by 5. I then walked all the way around to aisle 129 to be herded dowb to the tarp to wait on an autograph from players. They finished batting and fielding practice went in and never came out after I waited an hour or so.

The game was very good and the Braves played very well, until U Kno When. The Kiss-Cam and Dance Cam were funny and we laughed out very loud. Yes the third strike to Chipper was a clear strike. I ate hotdogs, nachos, brats, pizza and beer, beer and minute made frozen. Actually, my husband, my son, daughter-in-law, employee ordered all that food and let me taste it.

I thought that game was sold out but it seems there were more people Sat night. It was a good crowd though. I left when the 9-5 lead happened. I was not going to get in traffic with a loss on my mind. Fireworks were not happening for my family. We wanted out. The long, long ride bak home was too much.

No! I am not pleased that the coaches are returning next year. We decided that we’ll probably save a lot of money in 2009

By BossLady

September 21, 2008 2:01 AM | Link to this

The Mets have spent enough money to be far ahead in the standings and not in a pennant race. I watched Beltran and Reyes closely and they should have single handed won the game. How in the world can Delgado be a MVP candidate in front of David Wright? Delgado did not perform the first half and Wright has been consistent coming out of spring training.

The Braves never had the budget to spend with the Mets and the injuries could not be overcame. We have no excuses other than this was not our year. When you look closely we have had to play AAA and AA players against Major League players. All and all they held their own and the Mets and Phillies should have already pulled away but could not do so.

I am pulling for the Phillies and Marlins. I do not hate the Mets, I just believe in Big Business. When a team invests so much money they should get results. The market dictates that the spenders should accomplish success.

Let’s go Phillies, Let’s go Marlins!

By David O'Brien

September 21, 2008 2:41 AM | Link to this

Just got back from seeing Dead Confederate at The Earl, and we stood too close to the stage for folks who don’t wear earplugs to shows (I don’t). Those boys were blasting at ear-bleeding levels. Good show, though. They definitely got a ton of Nirvana influence….

When a team invests so much money they should get results.* BossLady*

You mean like the Yankees with their annual average of around $200 million payrolls these past five or six years?…

By BossLady

September 21, 2008 3:24 AM | Link to this

Yeah, so no one should feel sorry for them when they lose out on the prize.

The Yankees, Mets, Dodgers and Red Sox should never be pitied or sympathized for not winning.

Money does not guarantee wins it leaves no room for fans to mourn over their misfortunes.

Practice what you preach. The context was about why no one will feel bad for the Mets because of their spending.

By BossLady

September 21, 2008 3:35 AM | Link to this

I am sitting here catching up on my clients accounts because I was at Turner on Friday. I am not pleased.

My thoughts are when my company spends millions on advertising, they expect results. Since I chose to blow off the end of third quarter reports and fourth quarter projects I have to pull an all nighter.

Since I am business driven I don’t see how any corporation can look the other way when their investments don’t produce profitable results.

By N Nine

September 21, 2008 4:07 AM | Link to this

Hey! its 4AM anyone wanna talk? McFann?.er.just kidding.

By BossLady

September 21, 2008 4:22 AM | Link to this

What are doing up at this hour?

By N Nine

September 21, 2008 4:33 AM | Link to this

don’t know why im am to tell you the truth..but then again your here!…i better catch some zzz for football and more braves action tomorrow..

By Bobby's Cox

September 21, 2008 5:59 AM | Link to this

Here’s some crazy stats:

Francisco Rodriguez has more saves (60), than the Mariners (57) and Padres (59) have wins. His magic number of finishing with more saves than the Mariners have wins is 5.

The worst team in baseball, the Seattle Mariners, have 3 players than rank in the top 5 in the AL in hits (Ichiro, Lopez, Ibanez), yet they are 2nd-to-last to only Oakland in TB, Runs, and OBP.

Ichiro Suzuki has had a 10-game hitting streak 29 times in his career (8 seasons).

Only 2 teams in MLB history have finished with the worse record in baseball and made the postseason the following year (1991 Braves, 2008 Rays). The Rays

By Bobby's Cox

September 21, 2008 6:22 AM | Link to this

Missed a lot of time on here as I took a trip to Napa Valley’s wine country for the 2 year anniversary. Nice, relaxing place with perhaps the best wines in the world, if anyone likes wine. The girl wanted to do it, so I made her dream come true, again.

Oh Brother

Braveheart doesn’t have the prado man-crush. That would be myself.

With that said, can’t believe Prado was playing LF and hitting leadoff this past week. What was Bobby thinking? Anyway, glad the kid was in the lineup.

(btw, Braveheart, nice to see that you think KJ is the most tradeable player on the roster now….about time…..i’ve only been saying that since, i don’t know, may?)

Steve from OH

A few blogs ago, (yes I read up), you had a joke with my name in parentheses. Pretty funny, and flattering, I must say. Is my man-crush that evident to where that’s my blog legacy? That can’t be good. Maybe my previous post will help create a divert that legacy. Ichiro afterall, was my first man-crush.

Tomahawkin’

That person that brought up a Nelson “Nellie” Cruz was trade was myself. He’d be a great trade piece if the Braves could work out a deal with Texas. Even better if the Braves said goodbye to our current RF AND got another power hitting OF in the offseason. Can you say wow?

By Bobby's Cox

September 21, 2008 6:44 AM | Link to this

Boss Lady, it could take years for advertising dollars to produce profitable results as brand awareness takes time to build on consumers. That’s what many advertising agencies will tell you when they compile media reports.

Often times, you can’t really determine the effect of advertising in revenues. In this economy, who’s to say the extra money spent on advertising didn’t prevent a drop in sales? In that sense, the ROI for marketing may not look good on paper, but the overall effect of the marketing campaign may have been positive. There’s really no way to tell, at least not quarterly.

Good luck.

By Bobby's Cox

September 21, 2008 6:52 AM | Link to this

Maybe my hopes are high on Jordon Schaffer, but for some reason I keep thinking he’s gonna be a Grady Sizemore.

By Bill

September 21, 2008 6:53 AM | Link to this

Alot of people complaining about bringing back all of the coaches. What difference does it make, because in 2010 they will all be gone. That’s the year when big changes will be made.

By Braveheart

September 21, 2008 8:20 AM | Link to this

(btw, Braveheart, nice to see that you think KJ is the most tradeable player on the roster now….about time…..i’ve only been saying that since, i don’t know, may?)

maybe you didn’t understand me. KJ is not the most tradeable. He just has the most trade value.of the guys who aren’t untouchable. You’re saying he’s tradeable because you wrongly think he sucks and want Martin to have his job. Even with his shaky glove, KJ gives about 10 to 20 more runs than Martin over 700 plate appearances

By Steve from OH

September 21, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this

• Even with his shaky glove, KJ gives about 10 to 20 more runs than Martin over 700 plate appearances.*

Just out of curiosity, where are you getting those figures? I’ve seen you citing stuff like this throughout the last few days, and I’d like to know where you’re getting it. Not saying I disagree with them by any means, I’d just like to have a new stat site to refer to, lol.

By Savannah Guy

September 21, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

Bobby’s Cox is right, mostly. But advertising actually can be tracked as often as you like and can provide measurable ROI… if a client is willing to pay for that and is able to analyze and extract meaningful data. Many aren’t. Much like a bench coach that is an order taker and translator.

The most trackable media is interactive, but even that is imperfect. Hits, eyeballs and stickiness don’t always equate with sales, content improvement or success. Much like the many hits of some late night psycho-babbling bloggers.

Then there’s the product or service being advertised. The quickest way to go out of business is to advertise a bad product. By not advertising at all, a bad product will take longer to go out of business, but gout out it will. Much like Corky Miller.

Another mistake is to hamstring your ad agency or begin dictating tactics and media selection based on gut reaction or unreasonable expectations. Like putting McCann at first base, park Boyer in the pen or give French an automatic spot in RF.

Results are measurable. If you can’t measure it you can’t manage it. Does Cox have a calculator?

Then there’s the old line: forty to fifty percent of all advertising budgets are wasted. Question is, which percentage of the budget will you remove? Which fees, tactics or media are you gonna cut? Much like next year’s starting pitching and the plethora of outfield contenders.

Advertising is much like baseball. Budgets matter. But, unlike the Braves organization the last few years, if you can’t outspend’em you can outsmart’em. Then again, the best laid campaigns during an injured economy or a mortgage crisis that has blown up gets in the way… much like the 2008 starting pitchers.

Research, strategy and planning matters. Measuring matters. Managing matters more than those.

Quality of product matters the most.

By McFann ;Ô;

September 21, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

Not much action on the ol’ Blog this morning, it appears.

LKS—

Thanks…I’m sorry I couldn’t take them. I hope the tickets go to a true fan who’ll stay for the whole game!

They better win the series! I think they cann handle Pelfrey…they’ve done it two time outta three this year. Hopefully they’ll repeat their May 21 performance. That would be fun!

N Nine Hey! its 4AM anyone wanna talk? McFann?

Haha! That was funny!

Steve from OH—

What stat-site do you use? ‘Cause Baseball-Reference.com is a good one. Only problem is that in order to view some complete sets of stats (such as this), you have to “subscribe” for as “low” as $29 a year. That makes me mad, ya know? I’m like, “Just let me look at the stats!”

By Steve from OH

September 21, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this

McFann, I use baseball-reference often, especially for season/career splits and OPS+. However, the most frequent site I use is Baseball Prospectus, becuase they offer a lot more “advanced” stats, so to speak. You can access a lot without subscribing, but I think I’m going to subscribe next year.

You’ll notice those are sortable (so you can sort for catchers, lol), as well. And there is a glossary, in case you’re not familiar with a particular stat.

By Steve from OH

September 21, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

Oh, and fangraphs.com is really good as well.

By Carroll Rogers

September 21, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this

new blog should be up! CR

By McFann ;Ô;

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

Steve from OH—

Thanks! I’ve been wondering about Baseball Prospectus, thanks for the link.

I couldn’t get that second link to work, but I’ll just type that address into the…thing where you type the addresses.

Hey, Will Ohman was just interviewing guys in the clubhouse! Asking ‘em why they’re writing checks and stuff…I missed the first part…he was asking McCann who he was writing something to and why (I guess they were checks, not sure) and McCann said something like he was writing them to all the people who’ve helped him over the course of the year, and Will says, “Because you can’t do you own laundry…?”

And then Brian just walked away.

(Sorry, that was kinda confusing.)

By Jim

September 21, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

I’ve been in Europe for 2 months so I’m out of touch. I’ve followed the Braves since 66. I’m 67 and remember Ted Williams. The guy who posts about Larry is an IDIOT. That having been said I’d like to know if Chipper would play the last game under those circumstances. I don’t think I’m an idiot just call me curious. Everybody who I’ve respected in baseball would not sit out the last game of the year if they had a lead in a batting race. I would like to know if Chipper would. Does that make me a bad guy?

By Brett Butler fan

September 21, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this

MARTIN!!!!

By varoadrunner

September 24, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this

Looks like we need a new blog. but DOB after seeing Hampton get better and better this year, using your crystal ball, do the Braves have Hampton in their plans for 2009?