AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2008 > December > 22 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USBraves’ stockings lacking; our top CDs of 2008
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Braves general manager Frank Wren is hitting the Colorado slopes with his family this week, but I think it’s probably safe to assume his crackberry will be on his person at all times, just in case.
He would’ve preferred to have most of the offseason heavy lifting done by now, but Wren did warn us early on he might not be able to get the outfield bat he sought until spring training or even during the season.
But a top starting pitcher and a run-producing outfielder? The Braves didn’t anticipate going to the new year with both those priority needs unresolved.
There’s no reason to sugarcoat it: This has been a difficult, troublesome offseason for the Braves, whose trade talks for Jake Peavy stalled, whose big offer to A.J. Burnett fell short, and whose nearly finalized deal for leadoff man Rafael Furcal fell apart after the Braves said Furcal and his agent reneged on a “gentleman’s agreement” (the agent says there was no agreement, despite the Braves saying they faxed, at the agent’s request, a “term sheet” — considered the final step in a deal, after all terms have been negotiated).
Anyway, that’s done and there’s nothing the Braves can do about it. There’s still time for the Braves to make a couple of moves and fill their needs. No, there really is.
But the Furcal thing was a figurative punch to the gut for the Braves. Furcal re-signed with the L.A. Dodgers, and it became quite apparent that was where he wanted to be all along, despite whatever might have been said about him wanting to come back to play again for Atlanta and Bobby Cox.
The reason that deal falling through was so difficult to take for the Braves was not just because they thought they had their leadoff inconsistency erased with the return of one of the majors’ best top-of-the-order hitters, but also because the addition of Furcal would’ve given the Braves the flexibility to move in a few different directions this winter, depending on what other trade possibilities presented themselves.
They could’ve played Furcal at shortstop or moved him to second base and had Yunel Escobar stay at shortstop, with Kelly Johnson either going to the outfield or possibly traded in a later deal for a starting pitcher or a power-hitting outfielder.
Other, more radical options might have been considered, too, such as asking Chipper Jones if he’d consider moving to first base if a team was interested in trading for Casey Kotchman. Escobar has third-base experience, having played there when he was first brought up from the minors to fill in for an injured Chipper in 2007.
(Could you imagine the number of screaming throws made to first base in every game from a left side of the infield consisting of third baseman Escobar and shortstop Furcal, two of the strongest-armed infielders in the majors? Whoever handled first-base duties in that scenario would’ve needed a specially padded glove.)
Alas, Furcal’s not coming, so we’re only left to wonder what might have happened, who might have been subsequently traded, etc.
And now, the Braves are trying again to land a run-producing outfielder, and still have indicated no interest in the likes of Adam Dunn and Pat Burrell. Might that change due to circumstances? Perhaps, but I’ve heard nothing to make be think it has changed yet. We’ll see in the coming weeks.
I also haven’t heard that the Braves have expressed any serious interest in Derek Lowe or any interest at all in Ben Sheets, but if they still see getting a true “ace” to be a priority, well, it wouldn’t surprise me at all if they at least monitored the Lowe situation to see whether his asking price drops the way some believe it will, and also how serious the Red Sox and/or Yankees might go after Lowe.
As I mentioned a couple of days ago, the Braves are still squarely in the bidding for 33-year-old Kenshin Kawakami, a former winner of Japan’s Cy Young Award equivelent and a right-hander projected as a middle-rotation starter in the majors.
If the Braves could land him, they’d still lack an ace, but would presumably have three quality starters in Jair Jurrjens, Javier Vazquez and Kawakami, with the last couple of spots up for graps among the likes of Charlie Morton, Tommy Hanson, Jorge Campillo and, if he returns to pitch and returns the Braves, John Smoltz by perhaps May or June. And also, if he pitches again, Tom Glavine.
I still believe they really need to do all they can to get an ace, whether that’s Jake Peavy (which seems increasingly unlikely), or Lowe, or someone who might be available that we don’t even know about yet.
Just as we didn’t see the Furcal thing coming, it’s hard to predict what turn this unusual Braves offseason will take next. Wren has indicated that he’s not going to be as forthcoming henceforward with information regarding whom the Braves might have interest in, as he believes such information might have worked against the Braves so far this offseason.
In other words, it sounds like he’s determined to keeps things closer to the vest, more like the way John Schuerholz always ran such a tight ship (although in this day and age, that’s probably easier said than done).
So tell me, what do you think the Braves should do in terms of big moves the rest of the winter, and what do you think they will do? And remember, what might seem far-fetched to some might actually be within reason, given that the Braves are one of a handful of teams that actually have quite a bit of money to spend in a market that might end up including some bargains due to the lousy real-world economy that appears to finally be spilling over into baseball.
Before we go: Taking some vacation time (it began Saturday, despite this blog) and headed to Colorado on Christmas Dau. But before we go, as promised, our annual list of my top 50 CDs of the year. My rules are simple: It’s got to be a CD I possess in its entirety, not something I simply heard or read was good, not one I downloaded one or two songs from or heard on the radio.
Yes, that means there are going to be some good or even great ones that I missed, that I didn’t procure (so far) or decided I didn’t want to spent full suggested retail price on without hearing on a listening station or whatever. Some not listed here got great critical reviews, but I just didn’t like ‘em. Or there might be one or two I just forgot came out this year or overlooked when I was going through my stacks of music today trying to come up with this list.
Also, I’m aware that the Drive-By Truckers and James McMurtry CDs didn’t show up on many best-of-2008 lists in major music magazines or websites, or at least weren’t ranked highly. Doesn’t matter to me. They should have been. (Keep in mind, some of those lists included the entirely mediocre Guns n’ Roses CD in the top 25 or whatever, which is just ridiculous.)
My favorite country CD of the year: Alabaman Jamey Johnson’s hard country, old-school record, The Lonesome Song (just got this recently, and it’s so good I had to move it ahead of Hayes Carll’s Trouble In Mind.)
Favorite R&B CD: Raphael Saddiq’s The Way I See it. Has an authentic Motown or Stax vibe to it.
Favorite CD by an Atlanta band: Probably Deerhunter’s Microcastle, but only by a nose over the strong Gentlemen Jesse debut. Another great year for Atlanta bands, with CDs by the Whigs, the Selmanaires, Dead Confederate, and Anna Kramer & the Lost Cause all good enough for consideration on my list (though they didn’t make it).
Without further ado, the Top 50 of 2008:
Album of the Year: My Morning Jacket, Evil Urges; 2. Bob Dylan, Tell Tale Signs, Bootleg Series Vol. 8; 3. Drive-By Truckers, Brighter Than Creation’s Dark; 4. James McMurtry, Just Us Kids; 5. TV On The Radio, Dear Science; 6. Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, Dig!!! Lazurus Dig!!! 7. Kings of Leon, Only By the Night; 8. Deerhunter, Microcastle; 9. The Hold Steady, Stay Positive, 10. R.E.M., Accelerate; 11. Jamey Johnson, The Lonesome Song; 12. Hayes Carll, Trouble In Mind; 13. Okkervil River, The Stand-Ins 14. Ryan Adams & The Cardinals, Cardinology; 15. The Raveonettes, Lust Lust Lust; 16. Gentleman Jesse, Introducing Gentleman Jesse and His Men 17. Santogold Santogold 18. Allison Moorer, Mockingbird; 19. Fleet Foxes, Fleet Foxes; 20. The Raconteurs, Consolers of the Lonely;
No. 21. Portishead, Third; 22. Raphael Saddiq, The Way I See It; 23. The Magnetic Fields, Distortion; 24. Beck, Modern Guilt; 25. Lucinda Williams, Little Honey; 26. Bon Iver, For Emma, Forever Ago; 27. Jenny Lewis, Acid Tongue; 28. Girl Talk, Feed The Animals; 29. Calexico, Carried to Dust; 30. The Black Keys, Attack & Release; 31. Wolf Parade, At Mount Zoomer; 32. Sun Kil Moon, April; 33. Conor Oberst, Conor Oberst; 34. Nas,Untitled; 35. The Roots, Rising Down; 36. Elbow; The Seldom Seen Kid; 37. John Mellencamp, Life, Death, Love & Freedom; 38. Black Kids, Partie Traumatic; 39. Mates of State, Re-Arrange Us; 40. Metallica, Death Magnetic;
No. 41. No Age, Nouns; 42. She & Him, Volume One; 43. Mudcrutch, Mudcrutch; 44. Q-Tip, The Renaissance; 45. Aimee Main, @#%&*! Smilers; 46. Blitzen Trapper, Furr; 47. Pretenders, Break Up The Concrete; 48. Susan Tedeschi, Back To The River; 49. North Mississippi Allstars, Hernando 50. The Gutter Twins, Saturnalia.
MERRY CHRISTMAS, EVERYBODY
Comments
By BravesFan79
December 22, 2008 3:21 AM | Link to this
If Smoltz, Chipper, Escobar, and Maccan stay healthy the whole year… this team will surprise EVERYONE!!
Lets find a way to add Peavy without trading Escobar, and this team will be a serious contender!! GO Braves! And Happy Holidays 2 all!
By Bring Me the Head of Francisco Cabrera
December 22, 2008 3:28 AM | Link to this
The top CD (set) of 2008, Dave, was recorded in 1951. Nothing else released this year can stand beside Hank Williams: The Unreleased Recordings.
Hank Williams Sr. was a god who briefly walked this Earth.
By David O'Brien
December 22, 2008 3:37 AM | Link to this
Bring Me The Head: No argument from me on that one. I’m hoping that someone close to me will get me that huge set for Christmas, but it’s quite expensive. Maybe I’ll get a gift certificate and apply it towards that purchase.
I didn’t include any reissues (most of that stuff, maybe even all of it, is previoius unreleased, but I also didn’t put boxed sets on here). If I did re-releases, I’d have had Whiskeytown’s expanded and remastered two-disc Strangers Almanac, R.E.M.’s expanded two-disc Murmur with a live 1983 Toronto show on second disc, the Warren Zevon debut with a second disc of demos and alt versions, and Replacements re-issue of Tim with a bunch of previously unreleased stuff.
By Arizona Brave
December 22, 2008 3:42 AM | Link to this
DOB, why haven’t we started to hear Byrd, Kawakami, and other back middle-back of the rotation pitcher names? Let’s face it, we’re looking for stop gaps until young talent is ready. Do you honestly see us swinging any big deals? We seem defeated and ok with the idea of a mediocre offseason.
By Mike S
December 22, 2008 3:47 AM | Link to this
I’m sorry Metallica’s Death Magnetic only made No. 40 on your list.
It was easily number 1 on mine!
By Mike S
December 22, 2008 3:50 AM | Link to this
Oh, and forgot to ask; DOB, do you think it’s realistically possible to get Peavy without giving up Escobar, or even both Escobar and KJ?
By Bring Me the Head of Francisco Cabrera
December 22, 2008 3:56 AM | Link to this
Sorry, Dave, you didn’t spell out your policy against reissues and box sets, but it is pretty obvious there’s none on your list.
Get your hands on the set as soon as you can, though, and thrill anew at Hank’s genius.
If your loved ones fail to come through for Christmas, let me know and I’ll send you burned copies. That should get you by until you can afford your own set.
By Johnny B
December 22, 2008 4:02 AM | Link to this
DOB here is hoping you enjoy a much deserved, and I’m sure needed vacation!
As I’ve stated previously here on the ole blog, I’m gonna sit back, relax, enjoy the blog and let FW and the guys do what they do…
Reguardless of the off season moves, or lack there of, I still feel when spring training comes around the Braves will be competitive!
Godspeed sir and wishing you a very merry Christmas!
By Johnny B
December 22, 2008 4:07 AM | Link to this
Forgot to mention…Wouldn’t mind seeing the Braves take a flyer on Mulder or Penny or maybe both on an incentive laden contract.
Not sure where they are in reguards to their injuries but both were top self type guys before injured…Just a thought!
By Hiawatha Terrell Wade
December 22, 2008 5:11 AM | Link to this
Hey Dave…in your 4th paragraph you accidentally refer to the Furcal Fiasco as a failed trade.
By Coach (Skip and Pete will be missed)
December 22, 2008 6:01 AM | Link to this
Exactly O’Brien, no need to sugarcoat what has (not) transpired. The Braves off season plans have gone up in smoke. As I had no expectation for the 2009 season, this does not frustrate me.
What does yank my chain is the rather unrealistic approach that our front office has taken. the Braves should be rebuilding, not trying to WIN NOW. Although, there is nothing wrong with winning. It’s just that the results of the past three seasons do not support this plan.
I would have taken a far different approach, starting with Chipper Jones. If Hoss were to accept a trade to any team of his choosing, any number (3 to 4) of young prospects in return would be satisfactory. Larry Wayne Jr. deserves the chance to compete in the playoffs again and that isn’t likely to happen with our Braves anytime soon.
About three years ago, I suggested that the Braves should blow this team up, rebuild and trade most of the heavy weight veterans (Smoltz, Hudson, Chipper) and I got laughed out of the blog. It looks like I was right all along.
Most of the players I would have gone after are already signed or traded for, which is no surprise to me.(Juan Rivera, Edwin Jackson, Scott Olsen to name a few)
Other than another inning eating pitcher in Jon Garland or solid defensive outfielder such as Milton Bradley and Gabe Kapler, there isn’t much left on the free agent market that interests me.
The Texas Rangers Nelson Cruz is however, very intriguing. Maybe he is a late bloomer, like some players are.
Unless both John Smolz and Tom Glavine return, stay healthy and make thier regular 30 start/200 inning efforts, the Braves are in for one long, rough summer. So far, the winter hasn’t been much better.
By hop
December 22, 2008 6:24 AM | Link to this
it is high time for the braves to finally change,this is not the 90’s when they had plenty of money to spend.
they must realize that the present model they have been using is outdated and is not working.
lets instead KEEP ALL OF OUR YOUNG PLAYERS and develop them, NOT TRADE THEM FOR SOME OLD HAS BEEN!
if they would only be patient and use the florida and tampa bay model as their guide; they too could be in the playoffs in a short few years,but they must change and change now!!!!
braves fans will be patient if only the club will state the course of building from within and get rid of the older players they currently have and turn to a full blown youth movement!
WAKE UP BRAVES AND REALIZE WHERE YOU ARE!
By TheAntiMe
December 22, 2008 6:38 AM | Link to this
Hey, DOB! Good to see you burning the midnight oil (a good name for a band, by the way), and then some for you to be hanging out with with us Braves insomniacs. You and Dave Attell. (What a great show that was - the one I saw him do from Atlanta was a classic.)
On the Furcal non-signing, I can understand from Raffy’s view how he may have wanted to stay with the Dodgers to avoid being asked to move from his favorite position at SS, as well as the fact that the Dodgers were in the playoffs this past season and probably will be contenders again in 2009.
I will have to say that the agents representing him did him no real favor by fooling the Braves into being pawns for getting more money out of LA.
I understand that The Show is a dog-eat-dog kind of business (much like the business of a former Falcons QB who currently has a previous engagement with his Uncle Sam), but I think Furcal may pay for that extra bit of money his agents squeezed out of the Dodgers via the Braves in their little ploy.
Although it’s true that it will probably be forgotten by most by this time next year, I believe Furcal has lost the respect of many folks. Not just the respect of some of the teams front office executives, but also from some of the players and some of the baseball writers, as well as a lot of the actual baseball fans.
By Ron E.
December 22, 2008 6:41 AM | Link to this
Isn’t it pretty much a foregone conclusion that Smoltz is healthy enough to pitch as a starter next season based on his early throwing sessions with no pain? If that’s true, sign him already and you’ve got your ace. Then the rotation should be good enough until September when Hudson comes back. Smoltz, Jurrjens, Vasquez, Campillo, and whichever of Hanson, Morton, Reyes pitches best in spring training should be quite solid.
Then sign Pat Burrell and platoon Anderson and the worst outfielder in baseball in RF and have Shafer in CF. That should be good enough offense to keep the team competitive until the trade deadline. If at that point you need more, trade for another outfielder to replace the RF platoon or a power hitting 1B if Kotchmann plays like he did this year.
Alternatively, jump into the Texeira sweepstakes and sign him then fill the outfield from within the organization with Brandon Jones/Diaz in LF, Shafer in CF, and Anderson/Francoeur in RF. Tex is a better hitter and defender than anybody the Braves can find via free agency or trade to play the outfield, so spending the free agent money on him would make more sense than signing Burrell or Dunn or trading for Ankiel or Ludwick.
By j-school dropout
December 22, 2008 6:43 AM | Link to this
Have a great vacation, DOB. You have certainly earned it. Thank you for the best blog in MLB.
By Smoky Joe Wood
December 22, 2008 7:01 AM | Link to this
I know he’s neither an “ace” nor ideal, but I favor Oliver Perez among the available FA pitchers. He’s the only one with upside. He’s got great stuff, and maybe a combo of McDowell’s tutoring and being around Smoltz (hopefully) would turn the light on in his head. The Mets want him back, so it would be tough to land him.
Lowe, Sheets—odds are you’re going to be disappointed with what you get out of them. Especially based on what you have to pay.
I generally don’t like all-or-nothing hitters like Dunn or Burrell, but at this disastrous point I would sign one of them if the terms were favorable.
By Mark
December 22, 2008 7:13 AM | Link to this
DOB,
Do you believe the Braves have discussed signing Yunel Escobar to a long term contract, something like Pedroia’s contract extension? It would erase those arbitration years coming up and allow us to sure up the future like BMac.
By Hank Greene
December 22, 2008 7:14 AM | Link to this
I haven’t heard much about possible free agents next year. Should the braves wait until then?
By Marc
December 22, 2008 7:16 AM | Link to this
I would put the brakes on any new trades. Let’s sign another FA pitcher to one or two year deal and just stop there. If they really want another bat, I don’t know what Baldelli would be a bad choice. Living in Florida I’ve seen him play enough to know he’s a game changer. If the story is true and he can control his condition better, this is a guy with a good glove that can give you a .300/25 HR/100 RBI season.
Just don’t trade anyone people, we’re running out of stock. Sign some low key FA’s and wait till All-Star break to see if it’s worth trading away more of the future or if it’s a lost cause.
By JasonInFL (formerly ME)
December 22, 2008 7:23 AM | Link to this
I still say that hopefully enough time will pass where the Pads and Braves will talk. They need to trade an ace (despite what they say publicly) and we need to ace. Of course, not having Furcal in the mix now alters that scenario quite a bit as it was rumored the Braves had targeted him to replace Escobar. But, I still say the trade makes sense.
By bobby from sc
December 22, 2008 7:30 AM | Link to this
DOB
I have a feeling that Kris Medlen will have a great Spring Training. Do the Braves view him as an important piece of the pitching staff both this year and in the future, or is he trade bait.
Thanks in advance
By fan since 66
December 22, 2008 7:39 AM | Link to this
The non-signing of Furcal will be utlimately seen as a blessing in disquise. How many players with a bad back make it back to top form? I respect FW because he has not succumbed to the kneejerk reaction, and overpaid or overtraded for anyone out of desperation. There is a non-spectacular trade or signing out there just waiting to be made and an 09 playoff spot will be a far reach anyway. Spend your money on Lowe, play your young guys in the outfield. Anderson seems to be overlooked because of his lack of power, but looked very good in the leadoff spot and outfield last year. I am an infrequent blogger but read just about every day and I would wish to all a very Merry Christmas. Go Falcons!
By T-Bone
December 22, 2008 7:42 AM | Link to this
Hey DOB! Thank you very much for your blogs and all your insight. I am a daily reader and I am enjoying your blog very much, my no. 1 source of news for the Braves. Just wanted to wish you a very merry christmas from Germany since I am off to Colorado for skiing as well, maybe I’ll see you on the slopes ;-)
By dap01
December 22, 2008 7:46 AM | Link to this
John Smoltz is my favorite Braves pitcher of all time.
But I have no confidence that he can pitch as a starter for any extended lenght of time. His body has been through too much.
I believe that everyone is being a little too optimistic on his being a every 5 day starter.
By TrueBlueBravesFan
December 22, 2008 7:58 AM | Link to this
As for pitching (I hate to say i)t but based on whats left……I think the best choice is to resign Smoltz……..and maybe Glavine if the price is right..put the babies in the rotation (Morton, Reyes…maybe Hanson) and hope that by the time Smoltz and Glavine and Hudson are effective your still in the race and able to make a push for a trade during the July deadline.
I don’t see a possible leftover free agent that will justify the contract (with the possible exception of Derek Lowe if the Yankees and Sox don’t drive the price into the stratosphere). I’ve seen enough of the bad Oliver Perez to know he is not the answer.
I don’t think a leftoever free agent outfielder is worth the risk either so my first suggestion would be to try and pull off a trade with the Brewers for Mike Cameron….get him to sign a two year extension and go with that and if that doesn’t work then think about moving KJ to the outfield and signing Orlando Hudson to play second. (I see Prado as a utility player..not an everyday player).
But to be clear (I WOULD NOT BLOW UP THE TEAM…….). That kind of action is a roll of the dice and will further damage and already wounded reputation with potential free agents…..and yes folks that includes your own pending free agents (Gonzales, Hudson, K Johnson, Kotchman, C Jones, etc). Its not just about bringing new talent. Its also about being able to keep and hold what you have and if players think your laying down they won’t want to stay and resign.
By 18 Wheels of Love
December 22, 2008 8:12 AM | Link to this
Nice list DOB! I haven’t bought that many albums in 5 years! I much prefer this list to ROlling Stones, which left off a lot of good records - that they even gave great reviews during the year.
You ever had the chance to talk music with Gammons? I know he’s a big Midnight Oil fan so that scored some points with me.
By Jason
December 22, 2008 8:17 AM | Link to this
DOB…..you missed Tennessee Pusher by Old Crow Medicine Show…..one of the true gems of 2008.
By Billy Walsh
December 22, 2008 8:19 AM | Link to this
Listening to Modern Guilt as I type. Playing the arm chair GM for a moment…I would try and trade for Figgins from LA. It would give you a lot of flexibility..considering Figgins can play both 2nd and the outfield. Plus it gives you a solid lead off hitter. Move Kelly to left, and roll the dice and sign Sheets and Perez. This would give us a lot of depth in the rotation and would look even better when Hudson comes back in 2010. Hey Dave, is there any creedence to the internet reports that the braves have interest in signing Fuentes?
By joe fan
December 22, 2008 8:20 AM | Link to this
DOB,
Did you never end up getting Shearwater’s Rook? It is an amazing CD from members of Okerville River. If you still have not heard it check it out. It is tops on my list.
By cvbraves
December 22, 2008 8:21 AM | Link to this
Have fun holiday, DOB.
Me thinks maybe Braves should just add to starting pitching with maybe Lowe or Perez (if they can get one of the other) and maybe Jon Garland. However, I still think Mr. Wren’s got a trade in the works.
As for the one’s we didn’t get, Mr. Wren’s not at fault. Peavy deal fell through because of GM, Peavy or agent. Furcal deal fell through because of Furcal, agents (and I don’t absolve Dodger GM of blame, either). And don’t believe Burnett fail through because Braves were outbid (although they may have been), or because of “location”. Listening to Burnett press conference in NY, I at least thought I heard him say that the Yankees were where he wanted to be all along, especially after CC was the fold, and he knew he could pitch for what is surely going to be a playoff contender.
All water over the spillway, let us move on.
Things look pretty good with the team as it is, and confident things will improve.
By 22oz
December 22, 2008 8:26 AM | Link to this
DOB* I told you months ago to get that Jamey Johnson cd!I think that, along with the new Offspring cd, were the only 2 new ones i bought this year. Just don’t see any stores around my area selling the good stuff. I usually just listen to Outlaw Country on XM.
As for the Braves, I’m gonna be completely glass-half-full and say this is the year we see Brandon Jones and Charlie Morton break out. Now, back to the eggnog…..
By Efrim
December 22, 2008 8:29 AM | Link to this
I would have taken a far different approach, starting with Chipper Jones. If Hoss were to accept a trade to any team of his choosing, any number (3 to 4) of young prospects in return would be satisfactory.
I’m not sure there is a team out there that would trade for Chipper and give up 3-4 young players. I believe he is a free agent after this season.
By Efrim
December 22, 2008 8:37 AM | Link to this
With all the left fielders available through free agency, I’m sure one of them is going to take a contract that you wouldn’t expect. Not even Adam Dunn is going to get 4 years. No one is. One of these guys is going to sign on for 2 seasons, maybe even one, and re-enter the market next winter(although it doesn’t get much better with Nady, Damon, Matsui, Bay, Holliday all free agents). Still, I think the Braves would be foolish to not take a look at a couple of them. They need a power hitting corner outfielder, badly. They have money to spend. They don’t need to trade prospects. Is defense in left field that big of an issue? It shouldn’t be at this point.
By matt_t
December 22, 2008 8:43 AM | Link to this
My list was very similar. I’d recommend Margot & the nuclear so and so’s “not animal” and Death Cab for Cutie “Narrow Stairs” and The Whigs “Mission Control”
By Bravo Nam
December 22, 2008 8:44 AM | Link to this
DOB
Thanks for your dedication and hard work this year. Hope you have a great well deserved break from us knuckleheads…Merry Christmas!
By Hawes
December 22, 2008 8:52 AM | Link to this
Sign Randy Johnson and John Smoltz. Unit is motivated to get to 300 wins and pitched great down the stretch. Smoltz is motivated to come back, too. Johnson’s unlikely to make 35 starts, but if stays healthy until Smoltz comes back, then you have your “ace” in a hybrid form.
This doesn’t solve a single long term need, except it keeps Hanson in a Braves uniform and gives him (and Jurrjens) another year to develop.
As for an OF, Baldelli makes the most sense, health situation allowing.
By richbrave
December 22, 2008 8:55 AM | Link to this
LOWE - yes. Absolutely, yes. SHEETS - no. Maybe yes, if cheap. PEAVY - no. Too expensive to revisit. PEREZ - no. Absolutely, no.
Time to see if MORTON, HANSON, REYES have got what it takes in the majors. I still think MORTON will pan out given regular work for a season.
Everybody says HANSON is the real deal, but I remember DOB raving about MORTON in a similar fashion in ARIZONA too. Still, folks weren’t offering for CM last year like they have for HANSON this year, and I don’t remember CHARLIE getting the awards from the AFL either. So I guessing HANSON is a better pitcher in the aspects MORTON is not.
Now REYES could become the best of them all I believe, but he’s got to listen to people and pitch intelligently. Can he? BIG QUESTION MARK. Personally, I don’t think so.
Right now CAMPILLO is a scary thought. KAWAKAMI must be better. Please GOD, have him sign and make him better.
VASQUEZ, JURJENS, CAMPILLO(KAWAKAMI), MORTON, REYES. Now thats a rotation to die for. Literally die for. Well at least I don’t have to watch the 1980’s play out again thanks to TBS.
Well, the line-up has holes at #1 and #4, two most important slots. McCANN can fill the four, but FRANCOUER will have to be counted on heavily to back him up in that case. And that puts JOHNSON/PRADO/ESCOBAR back at the top of the line-up. Whew.!!!! Where’s that solid OF bat when you need it?
BENCH is solid IF NORTON resigns.
BULL-PEN O.K. IF arm surgery survivors come around and OHMAN resigns. If he leaves I don’t see a solid pen at all.
2009 - Rebuilding year.
By Salty
December 22, 2008 8:55 AM | Link to this
Speaking of good tunes, the NEW BLOG IS UP and has the year-end CDs list (those who don’t enjoy the music discussion, just skip that part and don’t bother complaining, OK?)
DO’B! Don’t complain? And ruin their social life!!!! Don’t be greedy!! LOL!!!
By Kerfeld
December 22, 2008 9:03 AM | Link to this
“Tell Tale Signs” is really quite amazing, isn’t it?
Also just acquired a copy of Randy Newman’s “Harps and Angels” and that seems to deserve some consideration.
And I guess I need to get serious about getting a copy of “Cardinology.”
As for the Braves, Lowe is the way to go. Once you add him it removes so much pressure from worrying about Glavine and/or Smoltz.
The left fielder is a piece that can fall into place far later, even during spring.
By Doc Holiday
December 22, 2008 9:04 AM | Link to this
Efrim
Have you heard any whispers about Braves talking to any LF? Their approach toward the issue makes me think they really considering playing KJ in LF. As they dont look so desperate to get a LF.
By David O'Brien
December 22, 2008 9:10 AM | Link to this
22 0z, you were right: Jamey Johnson is the real deal. Great country CD.
By Bama
December 22, 2008 9:19 AM | Link to this
Sign Orlando Hudson and move Kelly to LF. Sign O Perez and trade for Snell an give’m hell both pitchers are young and I know their down side but their upsides and our needs are a plus. You still have B Jones, Gotsay, Diaz, Blanco, and Frenchy you could trade later…etc???
DOB, Merry ChristX and a Happy Everything. God Bless you and your Family.
God Bless the USA
By neon deion
December 22, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this
Where McCarver at?
By BravesFanChris24
December 22, 2008 9:25 AM | Link to this
I hope next year’s draft Braves can draft Matthew “Chew” Stokes. He’s a pitcher with a live 95 MPH fastball. He did have TJ surgery after High School, but he has since recovered nicely and he also played 2 years of college baseball. He’s a friend of my family’s and he is a nice guy and a baseball guy.
By DAP
December 22, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this
richbrave BENCH is solid IF NORTON resigns.
norton resigned for $800,000 on friday, so that part is taken care of.
i dont think there is a hole in the leadoff slot. one of the outfielders for eihter LF or CF will fill that slot. we have anderson, schafer, and blanco that are all potential leadoff guys. none of them are horrible…so there you go.
By Marc
December 22, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this
DOB
What are the chances of the Braves simply rolling with what they have for 09’ and signing some of these young players to long-term deals? I can’t help but think maybe it’s time to foward to when some of our OF prospects are ready for the bigs and just try to lock up guys like Johnson, Escobar, and J.J. until we’re a complete team. Then we go into the FA market to fill in holes rather than try to build a team.
By BravesFanChris24
December 22, 2008 9:27 AM | Link to this
From what I’ve also heard both Braves and Yankees have looked at him when he was in High School.
By AGTFan
December 22, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all. And if you’re not a Christmas person, Happy Holidays.
I’m going to continue my policy of not worrying about the Braves until they are playing baseball. I confess I violated my policy somewhat with the Furcal debacle, but I was pretty ticked at the way that was handled. Part of the reason I’m not as upset with the off-season as I could be is that I’ve resigned myself to the possibility of a couple of rebuilding years. Baseball is a long season sport and I prefer to take the long view. If we have to suffer a couple of poor years while the next crop of youngsters gets ready, so be it.
By Nick
December 22, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this
Decent list. But, you whiffed on the newest releases from Al Green, Emmylou Harris and B.B. King … especially, Al Green. Great returns to form by legendary musicians that belong on any Top 50 list.
And, what I think the Braves should do: sign Derek Lowe and Bobby Abreu to 2/3 year contracts. That’s what I thought when the season ended. And, that’s what I think now. They are the two lowest risk players at the Braves positions of greatest need.
By Anders
December 22, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this
Efrim
Happy holidays. Crazy cold today, huh? I agree with you that no team will give the Braves 3-4 guys for Chipper as he is free after this year. That in itself could be a problem for the Braves. How do you think Chipper feels after seeing the kind of money they offered Burnett? I mean, it’s one thing to take a little less for the team, but he had to notice they were going to overpay huge for a mediocre to decent pitcher. Plus Smoltz is obviously posturing for his negotiations. Why shouldn’t Chipper? I know Chipper is a solid organization guy but this is most likely his last bite at the apple (no pun there).
I still say, as I did back in October, the smart play was to trade Chipper while he has what will most likely be the highest value he will have for the rest of his career. The Braves are at best two years away and more likely three. Trade Chipper forget Smoltz and Glavine and build towards 2011 with the young guys they have both in the MLB and minors. Wren tried to patch things (for the second year in a row) and it’s blowing up in his face. Now they either have to overpay huge for Lowe (who has said he wants to play for a team with a real shot now) take a flyer on an injury prone guy (Sheets) or trade the prospects they say they don’t want to. Personally I think the Braves are dead to Vets who have a choice of where to go. Hampton leaving appears to be more telling than even I considered.
I know many will say I want them to trade Chipper because I’m afraid of him etc.. That’s juvenile thinking. I mean he had as good a year as he will ever have again last year and it meant nothing as far as the Mets were concerned. It’s just good business.
By Mike
December 22, 2008 9:49 AM | Link to this
DOB, thanks for another great year of writing and insight, both on our beloved Bravos and music. Appreciate the music picks, based on your recommendation I’ve picked up several of the top 50. One honorable mention Ididn’t see on the list…Jason Isbell’s Sirens in the Ditch.
Have a good vacation and holiday
By Billy
December 22, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this
Norton did in fact re-sign a 1 year big league deal and MLB.com has him listed on the roster as an OF’er for the Braves.
By Jim Hertel
December 22, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this
As our roster now stands, the Braves would battle Florida and Washington to bring up the rear in the National League East. We aren’t, on paper at least, competitive with either the Mets or the Phillies. But, that is why they play the games. Nothing is certain and may not be at all as it seems in the cold of December.
That being said, the off-season has not been kind to our Braves. However, crying over it won’t change it. The truth is, Peavy and Burnett didn’t want to come to Atlanta to lead our staff, and Furcal didn’t want to return. I think, given time, we will rejoice that they made the decisions they did.
Trading Escobar would be giving away one of our best players. I know you have to give up something to get something, but we don’t have a lot that anybody wants that we can just give it away. Right now, our strength would be SS, 2b, and catcher. We have to build on that and hope — *that Chipper has another 140 sterling games left for 2009 *that Casey Kotchman can develop into a hard hitting 280 hitter at 1b *pray that Jeffy can rebound *have Smoltz thrill us with one more season of splendor *and pray that out of Shaefer, Anderson, or Gorky we can find a star for cf.
The bullpen should be good enough, especially if Soriano and the Big Aussie come back and pitch up to their potential.
That still leaves us with two holes — another ace pitcher and a hard hitting thumper for left field. Here is where we roll the dice, but there would have been a risk acquiring Peavy, Burnett, or Furcal. This game can not be played by the faint of heart.
I think the best options left are Sheets and Bradley. How good would those two look in this lineup? And, I think these two are lesser risks than the ones we have already contemplated — because neither of these two would require lengthy contracts. You could probably get both on 3 year contracts — maybe Sheets would go for 2 with a vested option for 3.
A lot still has to fall into place for the Braves to win in 2009, but Sheets and Bradley would give us a chance.
By Dan
December 22, 2008 9:55 AM | Link to this
The Braves first round pick is protected. They also have money to spend (possibly as much as 30-40 million). This might be a rare combination. Spend the money now, b/c it will not cost you a first round pick.
Pitching-I would like to see the Braves make a run at Derek Lowe and Oliver Perez. Lowe is durable, but old. Perez is inconsistent but talented. The Braves need a left handed starting pitcher.
Left Field-If Manny is not a possibility, sign Adam Dunn. He is durable and consistent. Yes his defense is pretty bad, and he is left handed, but he is a presence in the lineup. Who knows, maybe TP can convince him to cut down on the swing with two strikes.
Unless Kelly Johnson can be packaged for a LF, I would prefer not to trade for an outfielder. I think Kelly’s position is somewhat expendable with in house replacements.
By PTBNL
December 22, 2008 9:57 AM | Link to this
Kinda funny how fans view players (in many ways!). It seems that many in this blog have no regard for Kotchman. But I was at the MLB.com site and read the article about the Angels dropping out of the Tex bidding, and this is what was expressed in the fans’ comments, “What a loss to lose Casey Kotchman for NOTHING.”
By Dan
December 22, 2008 9:58 AM | Link to this
By the way, on XM one of the two figure heads for Baseball America had Hanson and Heyward both in his top five prospects in all of baseball in his most recent ranking.
By Coach Smith
December 22, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this
This is what I WISHED the Braves would do Sign MANNY to 2-years 50 million Sign LOWE to 3- years 15 mil a year Sign SMOLTZ to a 6-8 mil contract that scenario would cost 46-48 million
This is what they COULD do Sign PAT BURRELL to a 1 year contract (it has been reported on ESPN that he might take as little as a 1-year 6 million) Sign LOWE and KAWAKAMI/or SHEETS now that you have saved money on LF..this could cost a total of 27-35 mil a year and you still have money and enough starting pitching to overcome an injury to a starter so SHEETS wouldn’t be as big a gamble Sign SMOLTZ 6-8 mil and let him close if needed or start doesn’t matter This scenario would cost 39-48 mil depending on who got what
Out of the BOX opitions 1. Trade for PEAVY, sign SMOLTZ, Orlando Hudson (due to Peavy trade), sign DYE COST= around 36 mil this year
The unlikely Blockbuster trade packages that would Bring either OSWALT and LEE or RIOS and HALLADAY COST= around 35 mil a year and likely ESCO or KJ, GORKYS/SCHAFER and DIORY, MORTON and JOJO
Trade for GRIENKE, sign Orlando Hudson (again due to trade of KJ or Escobar), Burrel/Dye/Dunn to short deal, sign KAWAKAMI and SMOLTZ
Cost= around 35-45 mil a year
What do you guys think?
By dan miller
December 22, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this
If the Braves are determined to add a genuine top-of-the-rotation talent, Ben Sheets is the ONLY one out there and he will be had a bargain price by someone. Might as well be the Braves. We all know how badly burned the Braves were by pitching injuries last year and Sheets doesn’t inspire confidence. But this team was willing to go 5 years on AJ Burnett! Sheets is just as talented, younger and I’m sure that he can be signed for 2 years with, perhaps, a third year vesting option. This is the ONLY way to go … if they are determined to sign a potential ace.
By dan miller
December 22, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this
Second comment - as far as a power hitter is concerned, Burrell is the way to go. DON’T trade any young talent for a Jermaine Dye or some such player. Burrell is just as good. He’s a right handed middle-of-the-order hitter with great plate discipline. Exactly what the Braves need. Two years might land him.
By Doc Holiday
December 22, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this
I dont see the Braves getting Abreu……….How much is he gonna cost? 18M? 55M for 3 years? How much is he asking for?
By Steve from OH
December 22, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this
Saw the Trans-Siberian Orchestra last night in Detroit, and man, what a show that was. Excellent. I’d recommend it to anyone, even if you’re not a big fan of Christmas music (I’m not, although if you can see it in a big venue, that would be better, for the lights and pyro and stuff). And N8, Alex Skolnick was one of the guitar players on stage, and let me just say calling him a “heckuva guitar player” is an understatement.
By Anders
December 22, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this
Doc Holiday
How much is he gonna cost? 18M? 55M for 3 years? How much is he asking for?
Not sure what he’s asking for but he won’t get close to what you posted. I’m guessing if he got two years at $20 -22 mil he’d be thrilled. I’m not even sure that is doable.
By Random
December 22, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this
I’d be happy if the Braves signed Smoltz (a must); and either DLowe or two of the following (in rough descending order of preference): RJohnson, OPerez, BPenny, KKawakami, or PByrd; and one of the following (in rough descending order of preference): MBradley, BAbreu, RBaldelli, ADunn or PBurrell.
(Do I get eggroll with that?)
By Dan
December 22, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this
Coach Smith: You cannot sign Dye, he is not a free agent. He would require prospects in a trade.
Dan Miller: Agreed, Sheets has top of the rotation stuff. However, he is always hurt and has never won more than 13 games. For the money, I would rather have someone who will take the ball every five days like Lowe.
By DAP
December 22, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this
doc holliday i think abreu will end up getting about $12mil per for three years. if it were me, id rather do two years, but i think abreu will get three somewhere.
one thing the braves could do with the free agent outfielders, is sign whoever will take the fewest years. approach dunn, burrell, abreu, and bradley, and sign the first one who will take a two year deal.
i would also give oliver perez a look. he is one of the few young starters that is available. he is coming into his prime, and although he isnt a top of the rotation guy, e can pitch like on in any given start. young arm, great potential, inconsistent…make him a offer. if he takes it, good, its on our terms. if not, than we didnt over pay.
By Doc Holiday
December 22, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this
Anders
2 years at 22?………you mean a year, right?
Like 2 years for 44M……right?
By Don
December 22, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this
Braves are better off without Furcal. Had not chance at Burnett. Were already offering too much for Peavy - injury prone - Escobar could be star for years. Key now is not too panic. MUST NOT: - Must now not consider Dunn or Burrell- don’t need high K, low BA outfielder. Must not give big bucks for medioacre or injury prone starter. Better off in each situation to give our young players a chance. Must not give too much for Peavy. (In Peavy situation, could have given up the farm plus Escobar and ended up with an injured pitcher - nothing. Better off with a good hitting, OBA outfielder than someone with low BA and OBA just because he hits a few H.R.
By Braves Fan
December 22, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this
DOB,
Why the hesitation with the Braves on taking a flyer on Ben Sheets??
Despite the concern over his potential injury, his contract would not be outrageous and short term. Compared to the likely reward of his continuing to provide ace level pitching, wouldn’t it be worth the risk at this point???
By stamper
December 22, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this
what is with all this fan interest of Milton Bradley I’m seeing in this forum? Honestly? Milton Bradley? Why? Can’t we aim a little higher, people?
I haven’t checked Bradley’s stats lately, but has the man EVER played an entire season? If memory serves,… maybe once? in his entire career? methinks we need to look somewhere else.
(and that doesn’t include Dunn or Burrell - or even Abreu)
Wells and Dye should be where we’re looking for a suitable outfield bat.
we have money at our disposal this winter… let’s use it intelligently.
By RemoW
December 22, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this
I think we should take a flyer on Sheets. Offer 2 years at 10 with maybe a vesting option for a third year. Can’t be any worse then Hampton not throwing a MLB pitch for 3 years. At this point I think he would be worth the risk. I like this idea better then what we offered AJ Burnett.
RW…
By Don
December 22, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this
Must not panic and give either Smoltz or Glavin anything by a very low salary (like 1 million) plus incentives. Smoltz is forty scomething, has had 5 serious arm operations, and has had only 1 good season in recent years. Glavin too is old and didn’t show that he had much left even before his recent injury. Fine to give low salary plus incentive contract but that’s all. Surely we have learned our lesson about depending on old injured players.
By Rotty
December 22, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this
How do folks except Burrell to come to ATL? He is going to go from a WS winner and likely NL East champ in 2009 to the 4-5th place Braves.
Unless they horrible over pay him and he gets no other offers I don’t see him as anyone but another player who will leaves the Braves at the alter.
Dunn has played for perennial struggler’s the Reds for most of his career so he may be willing to give the Braves a look.
Revisit Peavy & Greinke if that fails then sign Sheets and or Lowe (if you don’t get Smoltz back you will need both) OR Smoltz.
Inquire on Tex and give Boras hope they Braves may offer him 25mm/yr. Spoilers can have fun too by messing with agents. Do the same for Manny if the Dodgers look like his landing spot. :)
Sign Milton Bradley to a 2-3yr deal for LF
By fastasballs
December 22, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this
As bad as this off season has been I’m not really that upset about it. The Furcal deal bothers me from an ethics standpoint, but he is coming off back surgery. The Braves could have two very well paid players that came along with very high injury risks so I’m ok with not getting signing them.
I’ve been saying prepare for 2010 & 2011 all along because competing next season has never looked like a viable plan. Even with the addition of Peavy the Braves would have lost Escobar & a slew of prospects. Not being able to sign Furcal would have hurt that much more since their would have been a huge vacancy at SS.
Now it looks as though Wren will hold onto the prospects & maybe make a signing or two. If by some miracle the Braves are in contention for the Division they will have lots of cash to pick up salary dumps by other teams before the trade deadline. I have a feeling a lot of teams are going to be dumping guys, maybe even teams that are in the hunt, but are hurting from the ecomony.
If the Braves are out of it they will have plenty of guys they could trade for upgrade for 2010.
The talent from the farm should start to produce as early of this season with Schafer & Hanson, maybe another pitcher like Medlin depending on how things shake out. Also you never know who will have a breakout season, like Hanson last year.
Morton should be a much better pitcher this coming season. He was pitching injured most of the year last season & we have yet to see what he really has. He might just surprise us.
The Braves also have the 7th pick of the draft so they should add another great prospect to the mix.
The future looks bright as long as Wren does not trade the kids away for a quick fix.
I believe 2009 could still be a good season for the Braves. The key is to get out of the gate fast & stay within striking distance by the break because the Braves should have a huge advantage over other teams if they are sitting on 20 or more million. They can add players & take on the salaries that other teams won’t be able to.
One thing for sure is 2009 will answer a lot of question marks. It’s make or break for Francoeur. If he has another bad season he’s probably gone. Jo Jo & Morton should get their chance to progress & show they are major league talents. Moylan is coming off surgery so he’s a question mark. Can KJ ever become consistent at the plate?
I’m sure basically nothing has occured that Wren had hoped for, but quite possibly what didn’t happen may be a blessing in disguise in the long run.
By Dan
December 22, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this
yes but losing smoltz to another team would be a devastating PR nightmare. Must resign him. Plus, if he is only just healthy for a playoff game, I would put him up against any other #1 starter. He needs to retire as a Brave. Plus, if the Braves have all this money, there is no excuse not to offer John a fair contract.
By Doc Holiday
December 22, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this
DAP
Wasnt Abreus salary 16 M last year?
I agree with you on the rest of your comments, but on Abreus comment. IMO signing Perez wouldnt give us and ACE, but it would give us depth. Vazquez, JJJ and Perez would be 3 pitchers at the top of the rotation that would give us really good chance of winning any given game. Campillo, Smoltz and the rest of the young guys would be a big question mark, but those 3 guys would at least give us a good chance of winning, not necessarily shut down the opposition, but at least keep us in the game. If you add to that a good surprise by smoltz or campillo, we could be talking business.
By stamper
December 22, 2008 10:54 AM | Link to this
Braves Fan, 10:38 DOB will probably state the Braves haven’t shown an interest in Sheets because he has never won more than 13 games until this season, and his increased health risks at the end of the season raised some flags. He may (although unlikely) even go on to say that Sheets has been regarded recently to be more of a ‘first half’ pitcher. And all of those statements would be accurate
HOWEVER, i’m with you… I think Sheets could be healthy, and when healthy he’s as absolutely filthy. I’d take the gamble. What alternatives do we have right now? Campillo? Morton? Reyes? Parr? Yikes.
By Salty Dawg
December 22, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this
I’m sorry Metallica’s Death Magnetic only made No. 40 on your list.
Any Metallica release is instantly penalized by virtue of them being such phenomenal douchebags.
By Random
December 22, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this
stamper: “Wells and Dye should be where we’re looking for a suitable outfield bat.”
This year (and probably this year only) the Braves seem to have more money to spend than prospects to trade (relatively speaking).
I think either VWells or JDye would cost the Braves too much talent in a trade.
If they’re going to have to overspend one way or the other (and with Wells it may very well be both), the Braves are better positioned this year to overspend in dollars rather than overspend in prospects.
That’s why I at least have been focusing on acceptable free agents.
(Of course, Wren could always pull a reasonable trade out of his hat (like JJJ or JV) and surprise us all.)
By Dan
December 22, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this
Stamper: Sheets is NOT healthy. He was not able to pitch at all at the end of last year b/c of his elbow. In the latter part of the season, when he did pitch, he was ineffective.
By Dadgum
December 22, 2008 11:01 AM | Link to this
I agree with many here and prior blog indicating the Braves should roll with youth in 2009.
It is highly unlikely that the remaining free agent targets i.e. Lowe will entertain an offer from the Braves knowing full well they could be 2010 or later from seriously contending. Sinkerballer Lowe would be nice but I am not counting on him.
Our rotation will obviously be without Hudson for 2009. Any optimism that he will return in Sept. should be put on hold. Smoltz, if recovered, should be ready to go on opening day with a good spring training. The Braves would be very wise to sign him in January. Given the off season woes I see the Braves gambling on Smoltz and signing him early in January. I can’t even imagine they will sign Glavine. Look for Glavine to retire.
Our rotation looks good stocked with youth. A rotation of Jurrjens, Vazquez, Morton, Campillo, Hanson. Back Campillo out if Wren secures another #3 type starter like Garland. If Smoltz is signed and effective back Morton out.
Sure there is time to overhaul the team but we aren’t likely to be a serious contender but as DOB stated there is time left to fill some holes. It is also time to let youth gain experience. 2009 is a good year to start rebuilding and there is absolutely nothing wrong with that.
Rock on……..
By Doc Holiday
December 22, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this
stamper
I dont see the braves taking any risks with injury prone players, at least not this year. Too many injuries and injuries in the waiting on this team to take anymore gambles.
Chipper.
Soriano.
Moylan (if he makes it back)
Smoltz and Glavine (if they sign either)
Gonzalez.
Yunels shoulder.
Diaz.
Bennett.
All those players lost many days due to injuries last year (bennett and yunel not that much, but it could get worse this year for them, never know).
Not to mention the lesson they learned from Hampton.
By DAP
December 22, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this
stamper bradley actually played fewer games than chipper this past year, but you should look at his stats. they are actually very very good. his problems staying healthy might be the only reason he isnt one if the top free agents this offseason.
if the braves could get braley for a short commitment, two years, i might be ok with taking the chance on him being healthy.
By Mike
December 22, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this
okay, so this is crazy and wont happen, but……
Sign Tex for 8/180
Move KJ to LF (trade him when Heyward is ready)
Prado at 2nd
Trade Kotchman and prospects for a pitcher (maybe a #2 or an ace if you can find it and add additional prospects)
Resign Smoltz and Ohman
That should be about…Tex 22.5mill; Traded ace or #2 10-12mill; Smoltz 6-8mill; Ohman 3mill; Vasquez 11.5mill….= 53-57mill….so its a little more than our stated amount, but if i remember correctly, $ for Smoltz wasnt going to be included in the $ we had to spend. But it wont happen…. with Tex anyway, so whatever.
By SeaAtl
December 22, 2008 11:14 AM | Link to this
Merry Christmas, DOB. Thanks for another year of excellent writing. Enjoy your much-deserved vacation.
By UT Ben
December 22, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this
Well since 2009 is looking like a rebuilding year for the braves, I would like to see them take a chance or two this off season. Sign Sheets to a one or two year deal with some options built in if he can stay healthy. That way, if he can (a huge if) stay healthy then we do have an ace to go in 2010.
If we can keep some money open for the ‘10 season we could be ready to make a run at the phillies and the mets. There is no need to sign players like randy johnson, dye, and burrell, who are stopgaps until the young guys are ready.
It is sad to say but without a true number one starter, speed somewhere in the order, and someone to protect Chipper and McCann we are looking at a year like this last one…
By Anders
December 22, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this
Doc
*2 years at 22?………you mean a year, right?
Like 2 years for 44M……right?*
I meant 2 at $22 total. No way $22 mil per. The Yanks didn’t offer him arbitration on his $16 mil because they knew he’d jump on it and take his chances in FA again next year.
Don’t confuse the pitching market with the corner outfield guys.
By DAP
December 22, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this
doc holliday Wasnt Abreus salary 16 M last year?
yeah, so what? mike hampton’s was $15mil, and he signed for like $3mil this year, right? abreu is a free agent. his salary in the past doesnt affect what he will make in 2009 at all. if you really think abreu will even match his 2008 salary, let alone get a raise…well, i dont know. im not going to say anything, except, he wont.
stamper wells? as in vernon wells? the blue jays have signed rios and wells to outrageous contracts which makes them untradable. do you know how much well is owed? first of all, he is owed $8.5mil in a signing bonus for ‘09 and ‘10 that was stretched out over 3 years. a team that trades for him probably would not have to pay that. his salary is just $1.5mil in 2009, but in 2010 its $12.5mil. in 2011 it is $23mil. thats right. and in 2012, 2013, 2014, he is owed $21mil each. there is no way any team trades for vernon wells. in fact his contract and rios’ contract are two reason they will probably continue to lose for a long time.
By KC
December 22, 2008 11:20 AM | Link to this
I think there’s a good chance that the Braves will make a considerable offer to Lowe. Whether or not they’re willing to offer enough to become the highest bidder… I don’t know. But I think they’ll make a serious offer if the have any sense that he might be attainable for the Braves.
I’m also certain that they’ll continue to pursue every possible trade opportunity for a top-of-rotation starter.
I’d love to see something happen for K.C.’s Greinke, but they might be asking entirely too much. I don’t know.
By Jim
December 22, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this
Lineup: Escobar, KJ (LF), Chipper, Tex, McCann, Dye, Anderson/Schaefer, Prado(2B).
By David O'Brien
December 22, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this
Oh, forgot to mention above: Merry Christmas to all, and sincere thanks to all of you who make this a regular stop on your internet rounds…. I think I’ll go back and add that to the original blog now. But anyway, there it is, for all you denizens — you’re very much appreciated.
By Ben
December 22, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this
SHOULD DO:
Sign Smoltz (guarantee $5M, worth $8M based on incentives)
Sign Sheets (guarantee 2 years, $25-28M, plus option that vests automatically based on number of innings pitched in prior 2 yrs: 320 IP = $10M, 340 IP = $11M, 360 IP = $12M, 380 IP = $12M, 400+ IP = $13M).
Sign Burrell (3 years, $33-36M - might be possible given falling prices)
Lock up M. Gonzalez in ST
WILL DO:
Sign Smoltz (same numbers)
Sign Paul Byrd (1 year, $7M)
Trade too many prospects to get Dye.
We have lots of money still. We should hold onto the prospects and spend some of the cash on Burrell as I propose. Signing Sheets to the contract above is a safe enough risk, esp given that we’ll probably have room for him and all the rest in next year’s budget too.
By KC
December 22, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this
At this point, I think Sheets would be worth a gamble on a two-year deal, with a vesting option for a third year.
Ideally, you don’t want to have to take that kind of risk, but if the Braves have no other promising avenues by which to acquire an ace… what do they have to lose?
They’re likely to have money to spare for the 09 season, so the only thing they’d be risking would be their payroll flexibility in 2010. A two-year deal is relatively short, so I think it would be very much worth the risk for ATL if they have exhausted all other options for that top-of-rotation piece.
By TDub
December 22, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this
I cannot stand O. Perez. If we sign him, I will eat my own head.
By Kurt D
December 22, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this
DOB You forgot Radiohead - In Rainbows!! If you listed Portishead you HAVE to include In Rainbows. One of the greatest albums of all time IMO as well as the best album Radiohead has put out to date :)
Also, if the Braves are resigning Norton (which really is a no brainer considering his pinch hitting stats) at a steal of 800k, they can surely go ahead and sign Smoltz. Its not like they dont have the money :)
By 22oz
December 22, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this
Same to you DOB. We appreciate all your hard work, and you definitely go above and beyond to keep us informed and entertained, and it makes for a great blog. Thanks again and Merry Christmas!
PS, you may know this, but if you fall snowboarding, ball up your fists, don’t flatten your hands, especially if you try to catch yourself falling backwards. Broke an arm that way…
By Bo
December 22, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this
I agree with some above that have said, sign* Milton Bradley if not Kelly in lf. Milton can flat out hit, put in contract he gets more MONEY for 150 more games. Sign Perez.* He’s young and has great stuff, just needs a tune up..best of all he’s Health and give you 30 starts. If Kelly going to LF sign Hudson he also hit 300 last year.. He was hurt puttin tag on Mac going to 2nd last year. Just wishing!
By Anders
December 22, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this
Stamper: I don’t disagree with you about Sheets — sure worth a gamble if it’s only a one-year deal or one-year plus a vesting option.
Agreed he’s worth the risk - but to a team like the Yanks not the Braves. The Braves are not in a position to make their Ace pitching acquisition a gamble. I mean, how many guys can you add to the “cross your fingers pile”? The risk is if he blows out in May you have another whole season of patchwork when you could have either paid the necessary price for more proven commodity (Peavy) or moved on with building for the future (trade certain vet[s]). Instead you’re treading water while the valued assets you do have devalue further.
Hey, I welcome another “in between” move but I think you’d be chasing fool’s gold.
BTW- The Yanks would offer more than you’re suggesting in years with the money the Steinbrenner boys keep in their change jar just for giggles if Sheets can be had for that. Where do you think Sheets would rather go? To the back of the Yanks rotation or to the front of the Braves? Cost of living and all, I’d say the Yanks.
By Wayne in Utah
December 22, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this
richbrave I agree with your pitching assessments. I have high hopes that with Reyes, it will be a maturity thing, and maybe this is the year he “clicks”.
I just hope we don’t go too far down the “retread road” for 2009.
I would be excited as heck if the Braves put in some of our youngsters and made a go with it. I think Bobby is the kind of manager who can marshall a young team like that.
Merry Christmas Friends!
By Kentavo
December 22, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this
Okay, let’s see, best CDs of 2008. I can’t agree with Death Magnetic'' - not memorable enough. It didn't stick, in other words. I didn't find myself listening to it over and over. As forChinese Democracy” I listened to it over and over, but it too, is mediocre, so I agree on that one.
I’m going to have to say that MMJ’s was the best and most exciting release of the year, too, backed up by the killer performance they put on here at the House of Blues in N.Myrtle back in the summer.
But what about Cold Play’s “Viva La Vida?” Another solid entry in the band’s catalog.
By rotty
December 22, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this
Good lord my last post was a typo disaster. Apologies to all on that one.
iPhone posting is not ideal.
By Steve from OH
December 22, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this
DOB, and a very Merry Christmas to you. Thanks for all the hard work that you do and thanks for putting up with me all year. Everything is greatly appreciated!
And in case the blog crashes before Christmas, a very Merry Christmas to all the denizens out there. To all the regulars (Efrim, Flange, Lew, Scoots, nolie, mbatl, Shaun, N8, BFIR et al) thanks for the consistent, quality input! And to all the other bloggers (I don’t have time to name all of you, lol) thanks for everything. You guys make the blog worth reading for me.
Now, shall I go back to railing against Jon Garland?
By Jay B
December 22, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this
Dave,
Just wanted to say thanks for all the great music recs. Visited Elle Guru at the new location yesterday. Found out about that place from your Blog and love the place. Not too many places like that left. Happy Holidays!!
By glorydays
December 22, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this
DOB Very important question that I’m sure the answer will be of interest to all of us.
Given that you report on music in your blog, as part of your job, does the paper reimburse you for the money you spend on CDs? (Should at least be a tax write-off).
Now to baseball, I fall into the camp that despite his best efforts that Wren’s inexperience allowed us to be jerk around by the professional jerks. It would not have happened with JS; but, here we are. Let’s not make more mistakes based on past ones. I think it is a mistake to even mention Lowe in the same breath as Peavy. Lowe is much closer to Vazquez and not one is all that excited about him (although he has the ability to surprise us). My holiday wish is that we don’t make decisions off the rebound and make poor long-term choices. I think the real Braves fan do not have a short-term perspective, we may have to take some lumps again this year so we are better set for the future. Forget Lowe and Sheets unless we get them at a reasonable cost with a long-term commitment.
The Vazquez deal has gotten a lot of abuse. I hate losing Flowers but just think where we would be without that trade. Also, Flowers basically had two stud months, otherwise he has just been good. We sold when the value was high, maybe the highest it will ever be for Flowers, we’ll see.
By jtb
December 22, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this
I’d sign Manny. He’ll probably end up getting about a 3 year 25 mil contract. I think it’s worth it. That will be short enough of a deal to allow Heyward a spot in the outfield when he’s ready. I’d also go after Lowe, but I can understand why the Braves wouldn’t really want to do that. I just want the Braves to get players who have proven that they’ll be playing all year and stay healthy. Especially since the Braves already sely so heavily on Chip, who will miss at least 30 games. I think a rotation of Lowe, Vasquez, JJ, and then Smoltz, Glav, Campillo, JoJo, Hanson, or Morton to fill out the final 2 spots. Maybe even sign a Paul Byrd type. I know that wouldn’t be enough to be preseason favorites or anything, but it’d be nice to go at least one season without seeing 50 different line-ups and about 10-15 different starting pitchers.
By Nate
December 22, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this
I think it is apparent to everyone now, that the team likely won’t be competitive in 2009. The Braves entered the off-season with three or four big holes, and none have been filled. All Wren has managed to do is add a innings eater to the already crowded back end of the rotation.
The Braves have plenty of pitchers capable of starting games. The problem is that the team doesn’t have any front end starters. With that in mind I don’t think signing Sheets is too much of a gamble in a one or two year contract. There isn’t much of an upside either. If Sheets stays health the team finishes third, or if he gets hurt, the team finishes fourth. But the team needs to show the fans that’s they’re trying.
By BravesFanInRockies
December 22, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this
Merry Christmas, DOB and the other denizens!
What the Braves should do:
Sign Brian Fuentes for 3/$18 MM; make Gonzo the centerpiece of a deal to a team that has an OF who can hit and who needs a closer: Cardinals for Ankiel, Tigers for Magglio, Dodgers for Kemp/Ethier?
Sign Lowe, along with an inexpensive back-of-the-rotation pitcher — Looper or Byrd — to provide stability while the kids mature. I’d really prefer to see a lefty in this rotation, so we have to hope that either JoJo or Glavine can perform. (It goes without saying that they’ll make a reasonable offer to Smoltz if they believe he can pitch.)
What the Braves probably will do:
Sign the back of the rotation starters and hope the kids develop. Take a flyer on Sheets or Penny.
Sign Bobby Abreu, 2 years/$21 million — or — Trade for Jermaine Dye, offering Josh Anderson and perhaps offering Morton or JoJo or one of the near-major-league ready pitching prospects not named Hanson.
By jenkins
December 22, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this
Well said Steve from Oh. Merry Christmas to all you great bloggers and Braves fans.
By eddie
December 22, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this
DOB god bless you for putting Susan Tedeschi in the list. She is such a wonderful artist and she is very easy on the eyes lol
By flange1
December 22, 2008 12:17 PM | Link to this
To All,
I would like to echo the sentiment of others and with the good denizens of the blog Happy Holidays!
Further, DOB, thanks for the tremendous amount of work that you put forth for the AJC and for this blog.
Your input is what makes this blog tick.
We appreciate you putting up with all of our silly questions and petty bickering.
Thanks also to our great denizens for all of their input that makes this blog a great place to be. Naming folks is tough for me because I will leave someone out, but, my favorite reads are Efrim, Lew, Steve from Ohio, Ncscoots, 10Paul, Shaun, McFann, KC, Wayne in Utah (sorry about Ryan Freel), SSIscribe and I know that I am missing a few….
Happy Holidays to all!
Especially to Frank Wren and his crew….
By N8
December 22, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this
“But anyway, there it is, for all you denizens — you’re very much appreciated.” DOB
Wow! Even ME?
Just kidding. But as Prince Akeem Joffer would say…. MERRY NEW YEAR!!
By Tomas
December 22, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this
I think that the Braves should sign Kawakami, Smoltz, Glavine, and a power hitting(cleanup hitter) outfielder. It won’t be the best offseason but at least they’d have the lineup fixed, with a cleanup hitter, a good bench, with a good backup catcher. Pitching wise, it won’t be the best rotation, we can only hope Kawakami surprises everybody(from what i’ve hear he isn’t exactly a flamethrower, but has good control and a good control source:DOB), and Smoltz and Glavine make a miracle come back, and Charlie Morton pitches like he pitched in the minors, and Tommy Hanson dominates mlb hitters, like he dominated the AFL league.
A good lineup, a good bulpen, and a steady rotation(not great). The phillies just won the world series, with a great lineup, a great bulpen, and a steady rotation.
By Lee in S GA
December 22, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this
Here is an interesting article concerning the Angels / Braves Tex trade.
http://www.ocregister.com/articles/teixeira-angels-games-2263331-first-series
By jimmy joe
December 22, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this
firefrankwren.com
I knew it all along Frank Wren and Liberty Mutual (Media). Lies, lies, lies and bait and switch.
Wren tried (lied) to tell us that Greg Norton (never to be confused with with “Hammerin’ Hank) was signed to a 1-year deal as a pinch-hitter and occasional outfielder. Wren, most of the Braves fans just didn’t fall off the turnip truck. Thanks to the bargain-basement Braves, Greg Norton is one-half of our starting Leftfielders, a platoon with Matt Diaz (another .240 singles hitter). That’s our LF this year Braves fans - Diaz and Norton. Pig-in-a-poke.
The garbage talk (more lies) about still trying to acquire a legitimate ACE and power-hitting outfielder is smoke and mirrors, a magnitude of LIES from Fran Wren. O J Simpson tells the truth more than Frank Wren.
Liberty Mutual, PLEASE sell the team to Arthur Blank. An owner that actually cares about winning, and not how much money they can make off the Turner Dogs so Frank Wren can take his family to a posh resort in Colorado. Wren should be working around the clock to get us that ACE and power-hitter he promised (lier) us. No, Mr. Wren is enjoying doing nothing at an exclusive ski resort out West. firefrankwren.com
We are NOT getting an ACE or a power-hitter. As I said, you can laugh but I guarantee Norton will be platooning with DIAZ in LF, and our ACE is Javier Vazquez (middle-of-the-rotation soft pitcher).
If we Braves fans ever want this current bargain-basement ownership and current DO-NOTHING but LIE GM, then DO NOT go to the games this year at Turner Field. FORCE this ownership to put a competitive team on the field instead of this 4th or 5th place finish team we have now.
ATLiens I heard you had a nice wife but your sister divorced you. And if you want to get mad at me, get mad at Nature too because Nature wasn’t nice to you either.
14 years of winning and now, thanks to Liberty Mutual (Media) and Lier Frank Wren, 28 years of 4th and 5th place finishes in the NL East because of being CHEAP and not wanting to compete. LIERS and bargain-basement jabronis.
Wren, don’t give that song and dance about fans should go to the ballpark for the family ambience, the Turner Dogs and picnic area. Alot of us true Brave fans still care about ownership and a GM that want to compete and win. Wren, you couldn’t manage a Taco Bell.
firefrankwren.com
By NJBraves
December 22, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this
No offense DOB, but that is one of the worst CD lists I have ever seen.
By amicusterrae
December 22, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this
1 at this point: make sure Smoltz resigns.Otherwise, I expect Wren to pull off a surprising trade, say for one of the Pirates young starters. Grienke would be less surprising. I still think Atlanta might sign either Bobby Abreu or work a deal for Jermaine Dye.
By Steve from OH
December 22, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this
Rotty—do you like the i-Phone? I’m going to be in the market for a new phone in the next few months and I was wondering if it was a good buy.
By Random
December 22, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this
Don: “Smoltz is forty scomething, has had 5 serious arm operations, and has had only 1 good season in recent years.”
You’re joking, right? RIGHT???
Smoltz has had good to great seasons three of the last four — 2005, 2006 & 2007:
667.1 IP, 577 Ks, 135 uBBs, 3.22 ERA, 1.14 uWHIP.
Have you gotten into the egg nog already?
By Jcann
December 22, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this
I say let’s see what the kids can do and see where we are at come the all-star break. If we are close and there’s an affordable piece to be had, make the deal then. I would like to see Schafer in CF and platoon B.Jones or Anderson w/ Diaz in left. Hopefully Frechy will bounce back. He’s a good kid, just needs to get back to having fun and playing ball and quit worrying about what everyone else thinks. Get smoltzie back and go with JJ, Vasquez, Hanson, and morton/jojo w/ campillo in the pen.
Who knows…the kids surprised us a few years ago, they could do it again, then add a power hitter at the deadline, plus an ace w/ Hudson coming back and we are a contender, but w/o killing payroll or losing a ton of prospects.
By Thundersticks
December 22, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this
I believe the delay in signing Smoltz has more to do with how competitive we will be in 2009 than anything else. If we’re unable to make the moves needed to be able to contend for a playoff spot this year, I believe we’ll allow Smoltz to sign elsewhere out of respect for his having one more shot at the postseason. If, however, we are able to make the moves necessary to be competitive next year, then he will sign with the Braves.
Now my plan would be as follows:
Sign Manny to 3/70 with an option year for $25 mil or $5 mil buyout - this would equal $75 mil guaranteed over 3 years.
Sign Paul Byrd for 1/8.
Sign Ohman (or another left-handed RP) for something like 3/10.
Sign Smoltz for 1/5 with another $5 mil in incentives and an option year for another $10 mil with a $2 mil buyout.
That would be $41 mil in 2009 in addition to the $11.5 mil for Vazquez. The reason we could justify the overage is the increased income from marketing and ticket sales for having Manny. Think about it. If you pay Burrell, Dunn or Abreu $10 - $15 mil, there will be no difference in increased income just from their signings. However, if you sign Manny for an additional $10 - $15 mil, the Braves will get an instant boost in those income streams, not to mention the increased likelihood of reaching the playoffs and the increase in income that would bring. These would more than makeup for the overage.
By jcann
December 22, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this
Jimmy Joe, you have some anger problems my friend
By 18 Wheels of Love
December 22, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this
I still think Peavy is the way to go. Maybe still try and pull the Escobar deal and then maybe go after Bobby Crosby to fill the SS role. I would then deal for Dye for LF.
Just an idea…
By Random
December 22, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this
jimmy joe bob — How long’s your apology gonna be if it turns out you’re flat-axe wrong?
Another nine paragraphs? We’ll settle for nine words, and don’t really expect that.
By KC
December 22, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this
“Where do we go now? Where do we go now? Where do we go now? Ooooh – Where do we go?”
Peavy is gone (barring the very unexpected). Burnett is gone. Furcal screwed us. Where do we go now?
Well, there is still plenty of time to pick up a significant piece before pitchers and catchers report.
But let’s just think about what we have in hand. What is our best case scenario? Well… BEST case scenario can get a little silly, as anything could happen, however unlikely. So let’s look at “better” case scenario. That is to say, if things go pretty well where each of the Braves’ variables are concerned; what might we expect?
Here is my take on the Braves’ “better case scenario” for each player…
LINEUP:
Escobar: .295, 16 HR, 67 RBI, 15 SB
K.Johnson: .290, 18 HR, 80 RBI, 40 doubles, 15 SB
Chipper: .340, 25 HR, 90 RBI (in 450 at-bats)
McCann: .300, 25 HR, 90 RBI, 40 doubles
Francoeur. .285, 20 HR, 100 RBI, 40 doubles (pretty much what he did in 2007)
Kotchman: .285, 17 HR, 80 RBI, 30+ doubles
Diaz: .290, 15 HR, 75 RBI, 30+doubles
J. Schafer: .270, 15-HR, 63 RBI, 20 SB
Diaz almost reached these “better case scenario” numbers above in 358 AB’s in 07 (while hitting .338), so I’m sure he’s capable of this… though he may well be replaced via trade, or platooned. Heyward could also wind up in left at some point in the season. Francoeur’s numbers above are nearly identical to is 07 totals.
ROTATION:
• Jurrjens: 17-8, 3.30 ERA, 170 K’s
• Vazquez: 15-8, 3.70, 215 K’s
• Smoltz: 11-6, 3.80 ERA (22 starts)
• Hanson: 11-7 3.90 ERA (28 starts)
• Glavine/Campillo/Morton: 12-9, 4.25 ERA
The above numbers for Jurrjens represent a slight step forward from last year, and the above Vazquez numbers are a near mirror image of his 07 numbers.
BULLPEN:
• Gonzalez: 2.45 ERA, 34 saves
• Soriano: 2.50, 23 holds
• Moylan: 3.00 (could be back as early as April)
• Boyer: 3.80 ERA
• Acosta: 3.40 ERA
Boyer had a 3.63 ERA at the end of June last year (at which time he has already pitched in 43 games). The bullpen depth should keep him from being overused in 09. And not thrusting Acosta into late inning duty as this did last year should really help him. I don’t know what the rest of the pen will look like, and won’t even attempt to speculate.
PLEASE NOTE: These are NOT my projections for 2009. They are the numbers each player could very easily put up if he has a good –not GREAT, just good– 09 season.
While all of the above numbers are very practical and attainable for each player individually… we can’t expect EVERY player to have a good season. The question is, “How much goes right this year… and how much doesn’t?” Do any of our key players struggle mightily, as Frenchy did last year?
The Braves can contend next year, even without adding anything else. However, there are many variables with this team as it stands. If the Braves want any assurance of being a contender in 09, they’ll need to pick up an ace. But if… IF Smoltz and Francoeur both come back reasonably strong, the Braves will have a chance in 09.
By Nick
December 22, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this
DOB
How could you forget the Black Crowes- Warpaint? It was my favorite album of the year!
As far as the Braves are concerned, I don’t have a list of what we should do , just a list of what we SHOULDN’T do!!
BRAVES LIST OF DON’TS!
1- Panic and sign Burrell or Bradley , too much$$ for too little output( unless Bradley learns how to stay healthy
2- Give Sheets more than 2 + team option
3- Sign Smoltz until we are sure he can pitch ( ditto in Glavine)
4- trade any of our top twenty prospects , unless it is for a young , controlled arm ( or young controlled bat)
5- worry about next season , it may be a surprise , or we may stink, I doubt it will be worse as we can’t possibly be that unlucky again !
6- and finally, the Braves do not need to sign Jon Garland, please God NOOO!!! He is the poster boy for mediocrity! Yet he get’s paid like a #2 pitcher! Just SAY NO!!!!
By JP
December 22, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this
I would have to agree with one of DOB’s earlier assessments, saying that we should trade for Jermaine Dye. You could count on 30 to 40 homers, 300 average, 100 runs and 110 to 125 rbi’s. Along with maturity and leadership in the clubhouse. Of course we would have to give up something but we shouldn’t have to give up the farm. The SOX are looking to get younger and he does not play into their plans. We would only need him for a year or 2 at most. He can play left or right.
As far as pitching is concerned, we still need to do whaterver it takes (within reason) to get Jake Peavy. He is a true top of the rotation ace. I like Lowe, but don’t consider him in the same class with Peavy.
And I hope that all of you who have mentioned putting Prado at second and KJ in left are only considering this as a last resort. Because the only way I could see that as a possibility would have been if we got Furcal, but then Prado would not be in the picture. Prado is a good hitter, but will not produce the power numbers that KJ can or will. I believe KJ may have turned the corner and will continue to improve.
Hope everyone has a geat Holiday and look forward to reading more of your ideas.
By Original Jon
December 22, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this
KC just curious, but why did you go off their stats from 07 and not 08?
By athensmatt
December 22, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this
My prediction for how the Kenshin Kawakami sweepstakes will turn out:
Kawakami, his agent, and a translator will do a press conference from Japan. Kawakami, speaking through his translator, will say, “I would like to announce my decision to sign with the Atlanta Braves.” His agent will say something, and the translator will say “We are planning on flying to Atlanta to meet with the doctors for a physical.”
Two days later, the trio will show up again, and Kawakami’s translator will say, “Yeah, so the other day, when I said ‘Atlanta Braves,’ I really meant to say ‘Boston Red Sox.’ My bad. I don’t know why anybody would want to sign with the Braves right now. I mean, it’s one thing to play in the States, but come on. They were what, 72-90 last year? Even if they make it to the playoffs, they won’t sell out that stadium. Unless they play the Cubbies….”
By David O'Brien
December 22, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this
Nick, I didn’t “forget” it — I don’t own it. Crowes have never been one of my favorites, though I hear this album is particularly strong.
By Random
December 22, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this
18 Wheels of Love: “I still think Peavy is the way to go. Maybe still try and pull the Escobar deal and then maybe go after Bobby Crosby to fill the SS role. I would then deal for Dye for LF.”
I’d rather see the Braves risk their money on (possibly) dubious free agents, and fall back on their young’uns if the FAs don’t pan out, instead of risking their prospects (and money) on (possibly) dubious trades and have nothing to fall back on if they don’t pan out.
PS: And Crosby??? The guy who cleared waivers last week? If the Braves had wanted him(another dubious proposition), they’d’a had him already.
“During his six years with the A’s, Crosby has a .239 batting average, with 55 home runs, 234 RBIs, a .306 on-base percentage and 32 stolen bases in 41 attempts.” [MLB.com]
And .380 SLG. No thanks.
By BravesFanInRockies
December 22, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this
The main page just linked to an AP story where Furcal says any suggestion that there was a deal with the Braves was a lie.
Let’s see, here, who are you going to believe?
The jilted team, who’s ticked off but must still thousands of players and their agents over time?
Or the player, who has to look out only for himself and will be largely forgotten in a few years?
That’s an easy call for me.
It probably also increases the likelihood that Furcal’s gong to have a Rawlings impression between his shoulder blades every time he comes to the plate vs. the Braves.
Besides, if Wren were wrong, he might as well submit his resignation now. And my guess is, he’s not planning to do that.
By David O'Brien
December 22, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this
No offense DOB, but that is one of the worst CD lists I have ever seen.NJBraves
No offense taken. Sorry we couldn’t get Jersey boy Bon Jovi on there for ya.
By David O'Brien
December 22, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this
glorydays, no, the paper doesn’t reimburse me for CD purchases (because they don’t ask me to write about them). But I’m gonna talk to my tax guy this year about that. Was just thinking about it last week when I specifically bought a couple of CDs with this list in mind.
By Tomahawkin
December 22, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this
Nuff Respect D.O.B If I were You, I’d be making a round to South Padre Island…LOL, J/K…And BTW No Womanizer, or Chris Brown Didn’t make your list im appalled…, LOL, J/K
Has anyone heard rumors of Bobby Abreu…? Before the Phillies signed Ibanez, Their fans were sayin that Abreu wants 15 million per year…I don’t want him in the “A” unless he takes an offer for less than 12 Mil…
As Far as Hip-Pop and Rap D.O.B.**, I don’t even listen to that Computer/synchinized Garbage anymore. Hell we had a party at our house last nite, and we were getting Crunk to some old Onyx, and Doug E. Fresh, because I enforced it…
By David O'Brien
December 22, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this
DOB You forgot Radiohead - In Rainbows!! If you listed Portishead you HAVE to include In Rainbows. One of the greatest albums of all time IMO as well as the best album Radiohead has put out to date :)Kurt D
Definitely one of their best CDs, which is why I put it at top of my list LAST YEAR, when it was first released (via internet). Though it didn’t come out in stores until 2008, it was out via internet in 2007, and most of their hardcore fans already had it before 2008.
Can’t have same album on my list two years in a row, wouldn’t make any sense.
By BravesFanInRockies
December 22, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this
(meant to say the jilted team must negotiate with thousands of players …)
By stupup74
December 22, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this
I think the braves should save as much money as possible and ride this thing out. No matter what in the market the braves season is going to hinge on KJ and Frenchy. Hopefully Blanco and Anderson can hold down CF. Maybe Shaffer lights Florida on fire during Spring and he and Diaz hold down LF (or some combination of the 4 at the two spots). We hope Escobar can make steady improvement at SS and Kotchman gives us some pop at 1B and Chipper and McCann stay healthy, but the year will hinge on Frenchy and KJ making ‘The Leap’. If KJ and Frenchy have big years then this team is going to score runs. Can KJ hit 20 homers? I know Frenchy’s jerseys are selling on the clearance racks right now, but someone HAS to hit cleanup. The best thing would be for it to be Frenchy. I think if Glavine and Smoltz are healthy they are probably worth the gamble for the year, maybe we catch lightning in a bottle. The pen should be solid if they Bravos get innings out of the rotation. I don’t look for a big year, but there are some ‘ifs’ and if the ‘ifs’ work out then we may have fun this summer.
Merry Christmas everyone.
By David O'Brien
December 22, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this
I’m having my patio re-screened and the two guys are doing it today, which I think is coldest day of the year. They got here at 9:30, when it was, like, 19 degrees out. Been out there for four hours in this stuff. Admirable. It’s one thing to bundle up and snowboard in it, quite another to cut and hang screen….
By Steve from OH
December 22, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this
Driveline did a pitching mechanics analysis for Jair Jurrjens. Check it out.
By Tomahawkin
December 22, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this
Coach I have been lobbying For (Nellie) Nelson Cruz ever since the summer (Since I live in Arkansas, I get a majority of the Rangers games). The dude has big time power, and his for average…I’d rather go that route than ovepaying for Burrell
Not 2 Mention D.O.B. I’ve been bumpin a lot of old SWV…They R very Underrated, I guess because they didn’t get the same Props as TLC did in the mid 90’s…
By propp
December 22, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this
I’m sure half the blog will bash this, but I am still hoping Adam Dunn plays for the Braves for the next two years
By flange1
December 22, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this
I really do feel sorry for Frank Wren.
With Furcal gone to the Dodgers, he really has a tough road to hoe as it relates to FA.
I can’t say that I would not blame him for not wanting Abreu, Burrell or Dunn for the money they want.
Don’t know if Lowe or Sheets will be worth their prices either.
When I think about the rotation, I think the Braves need to find out what Morton and Reyes can do.
I am not sure more time in the Minors is really worth it.
I could live with 2-4 in the rotation being JJJ, Javy, Morton, Reyes. If Hanson is ready let him take the 5 spot.
If Smoltz is ready, let him start in the number 1 slot.
If not sign Brad Penny on a 1 year comeback deal and see what he has.
I would rather NOT spend the money than throw it away on overpriced guys.
We have a hole in LF, have a platoon with Diaz and Jim Edmonds or Mark Kotsay.
Brandon Jones is still on the 40 man roster, at some point he either needs a chance or needs to be gone.
I still think if we could get Hank Aaron in his prime to play LF, if Frenchy does not rebound, the team cannot win the east.
I think he will rebound, but it won’t be to 2007 levels.
So in other words, I think 2009 will not be a year to compete in the playoffs.
Let’s watch the kids play and try to make a couple or “recovery” signings work like Penny.
Save the prospects and $$$$ for deals at a later point in the off season/season where we can get value for the deal…
By Gary Babcock
December 22, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this
Well,Braves fans it looks like it will be another long year, unless the club can make a few deals.We must have 2 quality starting pitchers and at least one additional power hitter.Every position player with the exception of Chipper and Brian McCann should be mentioned in trade talks. The ball club is going to have to spend money to get decent talent.Why not re-explore the Peavy deal ?Put a few new names in the hat and see what the Padres say. The clock is ticking Mr. Wren,let’s start talking to some other teams or we’ll be looking at a 60 to 65 win season, and a last place finish in the division.
By Chattanooga
December 22, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this
I was hoping The North Mississippi Allstars - Hernando would have made your list. Definitely one of my favorites of the year.
By Tomahawkin
December 22, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this
Propp I want Dunn or Bobby Abreu in the “A” as well, at least as a short-trem finn in 2-yrs 16 mill…
Gotta go back to watching my old Rasslin on Youtube…Ken Shamrock VS Shawn Michaels…Classic match….
By jimmyjoe
December 22, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this
Random
The same thing was said about “Wee” Willie Harris - “a spring-trainee invitee to compete for a backupposition; you know the “low-risk high-reward” type of guy. If my memory serves me right (in honor of Iron Chef Kawakami), “Wee Willie Harris was our STARTING leftfielder that year.
And paragraph, smaragraph… the bottom line is Liberty Media is CHEAP and Frank Wren is a stooge. I sure hope Franky Boy and his gypsy family are enjoying themselves on the slopes while real Braves fans suffer 4th and 5th place finishes.
*www.firefrankwren.com
By Anders
December 22, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this
glorydays, no, the paper doesn’t reimburse me for CD purchases (because they don’t ask me to write about them). But I’m gonna talk to my tax guy this year about that. Was just thinking about it last week when I specifically bought a couple of CDs with this list in mind.
Yeah, this would be a good year to try and slide one by the government. You know, them being so flush with cash and nothing much going on regarding the economy.
By Rong2166
December 22, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this
Why couldn’t the braves get in on the tex deal.After all we have the money.Or do you think tex would consider the option from us.I know people though out the majors don’t think that the Braves could be in the running for the playoffs.But i don’t think any one picked the Rays to go to the world series last year.We have a strong and promising future w/our propects.I think we could compete now.Remember all the injuries last year ?.Just a thought.
By Kurt D
December 22, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this
““DOB You forgot Radiohead - In Rainbows!! If you listed Portishead you HAVE to include In Rainbows. One of the greatest albums of all time IMO as well as the best album Radiohead has put out to date :)Kurt D
Definitely one of their best CDs, which is why I put it at top of my list LAST YEAR, when it was first released (via internet). Though it didn’t come out in stores until 2008, it was out via internet in 2007, and most of their hardcore fans already had it before 2008.
Can’t have same album on my list two years in a row, wouldn’t make any sense.”
Ahh, yeah well I didn’t read you last year unfortunately :( Yep. I had the digital download as soon as it came out and now I enjoy constantly refreshing your blogs and mlbtraderumors while listening to it on the discbox vinyl.
Woo hoo.
Sign Smoltz :(
By Random
December 22, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this
Here’s a fairly interesting tidbit of info about Japanese major league (NPB) baseballs:
(Peter Gammons, ESPN.com)
By Mort Merkel
December 22, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this
Furcal is now singing the same tune as his lying agents. I do not believe them. Why? They are not good and virtuous like the Braves are. Amen.
By Jersey Gil
December 22, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this
This is funny…Rafael Furcal said to Ap and Impactodeportivo.com that he never agree to anything with the Braves. If you go to that web side in Santo Domingo, scrull litle big under that new, you can read that ImpactoDeportivo confirm in telephone conversation with furcal that he Agree 4 yr contract and he will travel next day for the Physical…wow..wow… Furcal & co. are scum and lier.
By Anders
December 22, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this
For what it’s worth to you guys. In yesterday’s NY Daily News Bill Madden was writing about this whole Wasserman/JS standoff thing. He shared that Kinzer also negotiated for K-Rod and Tellem was really upset that Kinzer had come out and said what a bad closer market it was. Basically doing the Mets bidding for them. Kinzer then alledgedly accepted the Mets absolute first offer of 3 years at $34 mil. Tellem stepped in and contacted Jeff Wilpon about upping the deal to $37 mil for the sake of “face saving”. Wilpon obliged.
Maybe they will bounce Kinzer after all. Won’t be until this whole Furcal thing blows over though so the Wasserman group can save face - again!
By RONG2166
December 22, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this
THE BRAVES WILL MAKE A MOVE,I JUST HOPE THEY DON’T GET TO PRESSURED IN THE MARKET,HOW EVER REMEMBER HOW MANY PLAYRS HAVE COME AND BEEN BETTER IN ATLANTA.WE CAN GET BETTER WITH WHAT WE HAVE.REMEMBER ALL THE INJURIES FROM LAST YEAR.
By KC
December 22, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this
Original Jon: “KC just curious, but why did you go off their stats from 07 and not 08?”
Because the whole point of that post was to show what each player is capable of doing. Their (Francoeur/Vazquez/Diaz) 07 numbers were recent examples of the kinds of numbers each has proven capable of putting up.
Again, that post wasn’t my projection of what WILL happen in 09. It was just to say that there is enough talent here for the Braves to compete IF their luck changes next season.
By Can't Believe
December 22, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this
BravesFan79 - no class at all- why waste time on this blog with comments like that…grow up
By My name is Hank
December 22, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this
DOB the landscape of ATL sports seems a bit out of sorts. The Falcons have clinched a playoff spot. The Hawks appear headed back towards another post season appearance. As for the Braves? “Kinda feels like 1980-somethin…”
Who knows, maybe they’ll surprise me this summer. I’m one of those fools who believed Matt Ryan’s real last name was Leaf. Happy Holidays from Hank.
By Screen Guy # 1
December 22, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this
You think this is tough? You should try sitting through a Braves game for 3 hours!
By Bravesfaninmetsland
December 22, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this
DOB and all on the blog:
Merry Christmas, happy holidays to all. This blog makes routing for the Braves/listening to music/watching The Shield among other things an even more enjoyable experience.
Happy and healthy New Year to all as well as we hope the Braves can get a few new pieces in 09
By Billy Walsh
December 22, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this
KC,
Tommy Hanson…an 11 game winner with an era under 4? How can you predict that? Going from AA to the majors and experience that type of success right off the bat? Not many pitchers have done that to start off their career. Look at Morton’s growing pains last season. Look at Phl Hughes. There is still a shot that Hanson starts the season at AAA. And Heyward? He is at least 2 years away! He was low A and eventually moved to high A ball. How can you predict Schafer too? A AA player who was suspended 50 games last year and struggled when he returned. He’s going to hit 15 homers and drive in over 60? As for Vazquez, that would equal his career high in wins in a season. I would not count Glavine in the rotation either. As for Smoltz, I think he will either retire or sign elsewhere. Escobar has never hit more than 10 homers. 18 homers would be Johnson’s career high. I could Francoeur bouncing back to those levels. Soriano is coming off surgery and hasn’t even thrown a pitch yet. I wouldn’t count on Acosta and Boyer putting up solid numbers either. I think your projections are way too high. Those would be some career years.
By Screen Guy # 2
December 22, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this
For god sakes please turn off that hillbilly music!!
By Jersey Gil
December 22, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this
If i the Braves i take this People to Court, for difamation.The Braves are a good decent Organization to be defame like that.
By Salty Dawg
December 22, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this
Why couldn’t the braves get in on the tex deal.After all we have the money.Or do you think tex would consider the option from us.I know people though out the majors don’t think that the Braves could be in the running for the playoffs.But i don’t think any one picked the Rays to go to the world series last year.We have a strong and promising future w/our propects.I think we could compete now.Remember all the injuries last year ?.Just a thought.
In what order do you want the reasons? I’ll just throw them out there:
Tex doesn’t play LF and can’t pitch (to my knowledge), which the Braves have pinpointed as their primary areas of concern from day 1. To suddenly jump into the Tex frenzy (what is left of it) and commit $20MM to him doesn’t do squat for either of the most lacking positions.
Tex, or Bora$$, is looking to get an obscene contract, both dollars and years.
The Braves signed Kotchman to fill 3rd through the term of his contract (I believe 3 years left at the time). It would make little sense to trade him and his affordable contract without ever giving him a chance to show his wares at first.
The Braves had Tex once. His fault or not, the Braves didn’t do squat in those two years and Tex certainly wasn’t capable of putting the team on his shoulders. So why would they think it would be any different if they re-signed him? Stuck with a guy who only plays 1/2 of the season for 8 years and north of $20MM per is not a great idea.
His agent is Bora$$.
By BravesFanInRockies
December 22, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this
DOB,
BravesFan79 just can’t help himself, can he? Any way to bounce him?
By Anders
December 22, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this
Hmm… I wonder if Braves mgt. still feels the need to let Furcal off the hook regarding the contract dispute? Perhaps they spoke too soon.
In a slight breach of etiquette it appears Raffy went right to the “triple dog dare” on JS and the boys. ‘Tis the season.
By Salty Dawg
December 22, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this
And whys everyone down on Campillio? He gave us alot of quality starts last year and is at least as good as Oliver Perez.
I agree completely. I don’t understand why he seems to be completely dismissed as a quality starter by most bloggers and sports writers. Campillo pitched 158 innings last year with an ERA of 3.91 and opponents BA of .268. Prior to last year he had started 1 game, played in a total of 8 games, and logged a total of 17 innings at the major league level. For all intents and purposes it was Campillo’s rookie year and he pitched quite well most of the time. In fact the only times I can recall him getting into any trouble was in later innings after starting off well. Anyway, I like the guy and hope to see him pitch well for us next year.
By Chop Chop
December 22, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this
Merry Christmas, DOB.
Interesting album list this year. I love music, but I’ll be damned if I’ll purchase that many CDs in a year. Nevertheless, I’m glad to see Metallica make it on there. I’m a huge Dylan fan, so I guess Telltale Signs should be on my list. (You know, even though greatly prefer ’60s and ’70s Dylan over ’80s-to-present.)
It’s always fun for me to see if I’ve heard any of the albums in your list. There are actually a few of them this year. You just might make something out of yourself yet, DOB.
Godspeed on your musical journey.
By brent a.
December 22, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this
Rafael Furcal does not even know what a term sheet is.
I’m telling you, this is a typical athlete who is more or less kept in the dark by his slimy agents.
Now, is Furcal simply an innocent bystander? No, I don’t think so. In fact, I don’t think he cares what his agent does, so long as Furcal is happy. However, I do think this is another case of a slimy agent telling his client to just play ball, and allow him to handle the details.
However, Furcal’s comments reveal his ignorance, and that is sad.
Remember, back in 2005, Furcal said at his press conference upon signing with the Dodgers, “they (the Braves) had plenty of chances to sign me.”
I think guys like Furcal are easy to manipulate, and he’s happy as long as he’s getting paid and getting to drive his car 100 MPH on the freeway.
By Tomas
December 22, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this
This Furcal thing was really horrible, but they have to move on. This team has to many question marks. I think Wren can’t be blame for all the problems his had this offseason. Not being able to trade for Peavy(because it seems Peavy didn’t want to), not being able to sign Aj Burnett(because the yankees have unlimited money, and no team can outbid them), and the Furcal thing(because he prefered the dodgers, who seem to offer him the contract he wanted only after he was about to sign with Atlanta). If they weren’t able to sign Aj Burnett, there is no way in hell they’ll sign Derek Lowe. Fist he is a Scott Boras client, who is asking 5yrs 80million or 4yrs 66 million, and the redsox and Yankees are interested.
Wren doesn’t listen to the media, when he offers a contract he offers what he thinks the player is worth, not for what he is asking for. Not necessarily a bad caracteristic for a GM, but he would never sign a big free agent. He will never get in a bidding war. Derek Lowe is 36 yrs old, with good control, and a very good sinker, who just had a good season in LA(NL west, worst hitting in the mlb). Personally I think he doesn’t deserve 5yrs and 16-17 million per year. I’d like him for 3-4yrs and 14-15 million tops. But what is fair isn’t enough, and Wren offers only what he thinks it’s fair.
The Braves were a good fit for free agents, when they were getting to the playoffs. Now they’re a team who finished with a losing record, with health issues, and are in a limited payroll. If the Braves don’t offer the most money, free agents will have no reason to sign with them. Even John Smoltz could leave.
By flange1
December 22, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this
BravesFan79,
Dude won’t you ever learn to keep your racial prejudices to your self?
I just don’t want to hear your rantings….
By TBJJOL
December 22, 2008 2:52 PM | Link to this
does anyone know where I might access video of Otis’ catch vs. Andy Van Slyke in 92 and Walt Weiss’ unbelievable play vs. Astros (Ken Camaniti, I think) in the 99 playoffs?
Also, DOB, I’d make one suggestion for Top 10 country songs ever you posted ina previous blog. Willie Nelson singing “Funny how time slips away”. Classic early Willie…
By DAP
December 22, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this
salty dawg
i agree with your post about tex. it isnt happening. but i think you might misunderstand the braves needs a little bit. the braves dont need a LF, really. what they really need is a cleanup hitter, or at least a middle of the order kind of guy. LF just happens to be a place they could put one.
consider this: if jeff francouer had repeated his 2007 in 2008, maybe with a few more HR, walks, and a higher slg%, we probably wouldnt be looking for a big time hitter. wed just put diaz out in left, and plug in francouer in the middle of the lineup.
also consider that if things were different, and we happend to have tex under contract one more year, we also wouldnt be looking for a bat.
the way it is, tex is gone, and we are afraid jeff wont hit, and so we need a hitter.
By Random
December 22, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this
Baseball Prospectus has a brand new “Player Profile” of Jeff Francoeur here.
Haven’t read it yet — if there’s anything interesting, I’ll excerpt somee here.
By stamper
December 22, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this
so, i saw Milton Bradley’s stats…. yeah, i still think we should aim much higher.
I don’t see teams saying, ‘uh oh, Milton Bradley’s coming to the plate! What do we do??’
he strikes out a lot, has NEVER driven in 80 runs, nor scored 80s runs, in ANY season he has EVER played. In all the games he did play (a feeble 126 - and that was the most he played since 2004) he spent them on the bench as a DL… with just a small exception of 20 games.
he hit over 300, that’s great! but the bulk of that was in Texas… a notoriously hitter-friendly ballpark. He only hit 6 HR away from Arlington (compared to the 16 he hit at home) that’s bad.
But as it was mentioned by someone earlier, his salary wasn’t all that high… under 6 million. so, that’s nice. but still… we need to set our sights higher. As far as i can tell, us making a move for him really won’t improve our club.
And we’ll be lucky to finish 4th this year in the East, based on our roster as it stands.
We need to assess what are our intentions? Do we want to win the division or wait until 2010, 2011? If we want to win the division, we make a move for a real power bat. If we want to continue being mediocre, then we settle for someone like Bradley.
I’ll end with some Tom Waits- And I want to know the same thing, Everyone wants to know, How’s it going to end?
By KC
December 22, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this
Billy Walsh: “KC, Tommy Hanson…an 11 game winner with an era under 4? How can you predict that?”
I didn’t predict that.
I made a point saying “These are NOT my projections for the 09 season.” in bold letters, but I’ve already received a couple of responses that would seem to indicate that this point was missed, so please allow me to say it again…
The numbers I posted earlier were NOT my projections for 2009. Rather, the numbers were my opinion of what each player (reasonably speaking) is very capable of if each were to have a good season next year.
I’m not comfortable predicting those numbers from Tommy Hanson unless/until he carries some of that AFL dominance into spring training.
If you’re asking me why I think he’s probably capable of those kinds of numbers in his rookie season… I’ll respond to that in a few minutes (have to go tend to a couple of sick 3/4 year-olds kids here).
By h_charles
December 22, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this
Salty —
The reason Campillo gets less love is two fold.
First, he can’t pitch deep into games — at least not often or well. That might improve, but such was the case last year.
Second, many feel his success, which was MUCH greater early on than late (compare his ERA in his first 5-7 appearances to the rest — it will shock you), was a bit of fools gold.
Hitters couldn’t figure him out b/c his style is so different than most pitchers. Once they did, he was very hittable most of the time. There were occasional flurries of goodness, but often shelling. Campillo must be perfect and have great movement to get guys out, and if either is missing he gets lit. He probably does get a little undervalued due to his lack of electric stuff, but anyone counting on his being more than a back end rotation guy is probably reaching.
By stamper
December 22, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this
salty dawg, Campillo is no Oliver Perez. I like Campillo, but once players figured him out in the second half, his ERA. sky-rocketed. I like Campillo as a mop-up kinda guy, or a spot starter. But not one to hold down a 4th or 5th spot…
Having said that, I want no part of Oliver Perez. AND i’m pretty certain the Mets are going to resign him, anyway.
By N8
December 22, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this
DOB
“It’s one thing to bundle up and snowboard in it, quite another to cut and hang screen….”
You’ll have to excuse me for not feeling sorry for you. LOL!
Yesterday, I shoveled and picked through 6 inches of ice in my driveway, for about an hour and a half, and it was around -30 with the wind.
If it were 19 degrees outside today, I’d have shorts on. Not actually kidding about the last comment.
But, none the less, if you’re not used to it… YES, 19 degrees is damn cold.
By Tomas
December 22, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this
If the red sox did offer 3 yrs 21 million(I think this offer was inaccurate) for Kawakami, the Braves don’t have much of a chance in signing him, specially if he is looking for a Kuroda type contract(3yrs 35 million). I think Wren would sign him to 3 yrs 25 million tops. There are a lot of teams interested in him, the mets, the Braves, the red sox, the orioles, Angels, Giants, Brewers, tigers, and possibly other suitors.
By NC-Erik
December 22, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this
Having just reviewed Furcal’s comments, I can’t help but feel that his agents are manipulating him to their side just as they manipulated Wren. Of course he doesn’t believe he ever “agreed” to a final deal with the Braves … he wasn’t the one doing the “fast and loose” talking with Wren and requesting signed term sheets —- that was Kinser — and Furcal also wasn’t the one calling back and leaving voicemail messages for Wren after reviewing the term sheets to say “everything looks good.” What are his agents supposed to say to him now … ‘yeah, we screwed up your reputation in the Atlanta market, but please don’t fire us.’ Heck no. They are going to blame the Braves to try to save face with their client.
By Braveone
December 22, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this
DOB - I just want to thank you for an AWESOME year of great blogs. You are the BEST BLOGGER IN THE WORLD! Braves fans are very lucky to have you.
By Anders
December 22, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this
stamper
Having said that, I want no part of Oliver Perez. AND i’m pretty certain the Mets are going to resign him, anyway
John Heyman reported that the Mets told him they advised Boras that his price for Perez was too steep for them. He said this basically eliminated them from the market that Boras see’s Perez in. So if the Braves or any other team are willing to overpay, they can probably get him. If not then Perez’s market may come back to the Mets - we’ll see.
By Fan-coeur (Frenchy has heart)
December 22, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this
Hampton gone Furcal gone who next, Smoltz?
By Salty Dawg
December 22, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this
i agree with your post about tex. it isnt happening. but i think you might misunderstand the braves needs a little bit. the braves dont need a LF, really. what they really need is a cleanup hitter, or at least a middle of the order kind of guy. LF just happens to be a place they could put one.
I understand that, just don’t agree that Tex would fill the bill. At least not at the current asking price. Putting Tex back at first would arguably fill the cleanup hitter role, but that would give us exactly the same lineup we had last year sans Kotsay, which obviously wasn’t sufficient. Plus I don’t think Kotchman is that much of a downgrade from Tex offensively, especially if you consider his notorious tendency to start slow. The Braves obviously see things the same way, as I haven’t heard word one about them trading Kotchman. Given the limited finances and the fact that one way or the other the Braves are likely to spend a large portion of the available payroll on pitching (if not this year, then next), the Braves don’t have the cash to bring in Tex and still put a decent bat in LF. So basically I see it as bringing in Tex would greatly reduce the ability to bring in a solid hitting OF and doesn’t provide enough offensive spark, as evident from the time he was here. Or in other words, (Kotchman+power hitting LF)>(Teixeira+nobody in LF).
By DAP
December 22, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this
stamper if your problem with bradley is anything other than he doesnt play enough games, or has trouble staying healthy, its an ignorant opinion.
bradley finished with an OPS just a little less than chipper jones, and you know what a difference maker chipper is when he is in the lineup. just like with bradley, the only problem with chipper is that he misses to many games.
By Ron Roberts
December 22, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this
What the Braves SHOULD do:
1. Re-sign Smoltz; make this our top priority, out of respect to him, if for no other reason. This man has NEVER given us reason to doubt his ability to rebound from injury and/or surgery, and early signs show that he feels better now than he has in years. Hell, if that’s the case, then he’ll win a Cy Young award, because while being “hobbled” with aches and pains the last couple of seasons, he’s been very “ace-like” for us.
2. Get over this “he’s not a Bobby Cox-type player” mentality and sign a Milton Bradley or Pat Burrell to a 2-year deal.
3. Sign Paul Byrd to a 1-year deal with a mutual option for a 2nd year; this eliminates the need to play the “waiting game” with Glavine. We’re already basically doing that with Smoltz, and Smoltz is more a sure thing for us.
4. Play ball; if we approach the trading deadline within striking distance, we’ll have the chips to trade (budding outfielders and young arms) to acquire a Jake Peavy or Zack Greinke (young pitcher, under contract for more than a season) to add to the stable.
By Tomas
December 22, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this
NC-Erik, that obvious. They basicly told him, we need to stay together in this, and you just need to say there was never an agreement, and that you’re first choice was the dodgers.
By Larry J
December 22, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this
Uh, hate to break it to you, DOB, but “That Lonesome Song” is not Jamey Johnson’s debut.
His debut was the album, “The Dollar,” in 2006.
By Braveheart
December 22, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this
Trade Kotchman for a young arm, sign Dunn for first, sign Burrell for left, sign Randy Johnson, sign Ohman, sign Smoltz, sign Fuentes.
We likely won’t get the big arm we want. Unit or some veteran innings eater like him would ensure we are competitive and have a chance to win every time he goes out.
If you got two aces, what you’d be asking those two aces to do is give +25 runs above average each and +50 RAA combined. We’re not getting those two aces, however. But run differential is run differential, no matter how you create it. Offensively, Burrell and Dunn are each +25 runs above average bangers. They would give us the +50 RAA we were looking for from the aces. Same difference in run differential creation if we ignore how bad their D is.
Look at all the postseason teams from last season. Most of them had 3, 4 or 5 relievers who combined to give their teams 250 to 300 innings of 40+ Runs Above Average. Gonzalez, Moylan, Ohman, Soriano, Fuentes gives us a great chance of doing that. Since we likely won’t get our hands on the ace we need, and considering how Bobby abuses relievers, we’re gonna need all the guys we can get our hands on in the pen. Signing Ohman and Fuentes to go with the other 3 is somewhat of a backdoor way of getting an ace. Again, run differential is run differential. Does it really matter how or where you create it? It didn’t to the Foolies last season.
Signing Smoltz to a one year, $6 million contract should be fair for both sides.
By Robbie T
December 22, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this
I do not understand why everyone is so dead set on the Braves resigning John Smoltz.The team has paid John well throughout his career and has gotten a great return for their money.But Smoltz is in his forties and coming off a season ending arm surgery.There is no guarantee that he will even start the season due to his rehab.I don’t care what Smoltz has done in previos years the team has to look at putting capable players on the field.Don’t resign players like Smoltz and Glavine and then have to replace them with farm system players when they can’t pitch.Let them go and sign big leauge pitchers now to take those spots.You can get some decent younger pitchers for that kind of money.Smoltz has gone down several times in the past at crunch time and he will again.He was a horse but even a horse can let too many pitches thrown catch up.Its time for these old guys to retire and let some new guys lead the way.
By Salty Dawg
December 22, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this
salty dawg, Campillo is no Oliver Perez. I like Campillo, but once players figured him out in the second half, his ERA. sky-rocketed. I like Campillo as a mop-up kinda guy, or a spot starter. But not one to hold down a 4th or 5th spot…
The whole point of my post was that I think Campillo’s 2nd half decline could easily be attributed to fatigue more than players figuring him out. Of course, I could be wrong, but I’d like to see people give him the benefit of the doubt. I saw him pitch several times last year and he was absolutely filthy. Then later in the year he didn’t seem to have as much movement on his pitches. You often see this in pitchers new to the bigs or making a transition from reliever to starter. It is much more taxing to start a full major league season when you aren’t used to throwing that many innings.
By Jim Hertel
December 22, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this
Let’s face it, all pitchers are risks. They are all just one pitch away from blowing out an elbow. They are fragile, like thoroughbreds, because what they do is not natural. Does anyone think that Jake Peavy will complete his contract without ligament replacement surgery? Probably not. We all know that Burnett would have been a roll of the dice, but we were willing to give it a go for 5 years.
That’s why I’ve been saying that Sheets may be a lesser risks, because he would not require a 5 year deal. Could be we’d catch lightning in a bottle.
The more Furcal talks the happier I am that he is in LA. Let them have him, and let’s move ahead and build a winner without hiim.
By Salty Dawg
December 22, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this
I do not understand why everyone is so dead set on the Braves resigning John Smoltz.The team has paid John well throughout his career and has gotten a great return for their money.But Smoltz is in his forties and coming off a season ending arm surgery.There is no guarantee that he will even start the season due to his rehab.I don’t care what Smoltz has done in previos years the team has to look at putting capable players on the field.Don’t resign players like Smoltz and Glavine and then have to replace them with farm system players when they can’t pitch.Let them go and sign big leauge pitchers now to take those spots.You can get some decent younger pitchers for that kind of money.Smoltz has gone down several times in the past at crunch time and he will again.He was a horse but even a horse can let too many pitches thrown catch up.Its time for these old guys to retire and let some new guys lead the way.
Frankly, if Smoltz says he can pitch I believe him until I see otherwise. He was as nasty as ever last year until getting hurt. And there is something to be said for loyalty, even though you don’t seem to see it as much in pro sports these days. Smoltz is a Braves legend and should pitch in Atlanta as long as he is able to pitch. Glavine, to me, is another story. He played his entire career practically injury free until last year, but even before he was hurt you could tell that his skills have diminished over the last couple of years. I never saw that decline with Smoltz. Even when he was playing hurt last year he was the best pitcher on the team.
By KC
December 22, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this
Bill Shanks on Tommy Hanson:
“This year in the regular season Hanson went 11-5 in 25 starts between Myrtle Beach and Mississippi. He had a 2.41 ERA, with 85 hits allowed in 138 innings pitched, 37 earned runs, 52 walks, and 163 strikeouts.”
“Hanson has now made 58 starts in his three minor league seasons and has a 2.73 ERA, with 231 hits allowed in 322.2 innings, 98 earned runs, 119 walks, and 373 strikeouts.”
“His stats are not the full story. Hanson is a tall (6’6”) right-hander with a solid fastball, an uncle Charlie curveball, a knockout slider, and an improving changeup. The stuff matches the stats, which hasn’t always happened in the Braves’ system the last few years (i.e. Chuck James).”
“Plus, Hanson is a bulldog. He’s a tremendous competitor, with a knack to get out of trouble when he actually is in trouble. Hanson’s makeup is what could make him special. He’s driven to be a star in the big leagues.”
By Random
December 22, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this
“Player Profile — Jeff Francoeur” from Baseball Prospectus
He made steps toward this [maturing at the plate] in 2007, at least at first glance. He jumped his line up to .293/.338/.444, which appeared to be an improvement thanks to the increased OBP (and a rise in his walk rate to 6.1 percent). Once you notice that his BABIP (.342, similar to his first season’s, and above expectations generated by a line-drive rate of 19.4 percent) and ISO (down to .151, the second season in a row with a significant drop in power) were out of whack, any optimism begins to fade.
Neither of these issues were taken care of in 2008. Francoeur had the worst season of his professional career, hitting all of .239/.294/.359, with walks in 6.1 percent of his plate appearances, and a .120 ISO fit for a light-hitting middle infielder, not for a corner outfielder who’s built like a home-run factory… .
The lack of plate discipline is at the root of his stagnating development. Francoeur knows and understands the problem, but the way he has gone about trying to solve it—taking pitches just because he knows he needs to, rather than learning which pitches to take and when—is keeping him from reaching his full potential, or in the case of 2008, even a sizable fraction of it. His continued struggle against right-handers also looms large, as hitters who can’t deal with them aren’t very valuable as everyday players.
As a 25-year-old heading into 2009, Francoeur still has time to improve his game and deliver a peak worthy of the hype surrounding his first years as a professional. As of now though, he is a disappointing player who may have his heart in the right place—he has tried to rectify the situation—but who has failed to deliver on his promise. An extended stay in the minors may be best for all involved—the Braves fancy themselves a contender for the NL East title, and if not for their injuries in 2008, would have been in the mix with the talent on hand—as Francoeur needs to learn basic strike-zone judgment before he’ll be able to make it as a productive right fielder at the plate. —Marc Normandin
Jeff’s plate discipline is a major, major concern, and unfortunately he has done literally nothing to show any hint of improvement. In his rookie season, he swung at 34.7 percent of pitches thrown out of the strike zone. In 2006, this rose to 36.7 percent, and over the last two seasons, to 36.7 and 36.3 percent. Granted, he has not gotten any worse in this regard, but maintaining the status quo in this situation is not a positive. Curiously enough, his rates of swinging at pitches in the strike zone have declined, from 85.8 percent in 2006, to 76.1 percent in 2008. Francouer still cannot lay off of pitches he shouldn’t be swinging at, and is keeping the bat on his shoulder on called strikes. I don’t know how anyone can truly succeed like that. Compounding the problem is that Francouer is now seeing more pitches out of the strike zone. And why not? If opposing pitchers know he can’t resist them, why bother giving him anything in the zone? Even with an increasing rate of contact on balls out of the zone, his overall numbers speak volumes for the type of contact he is managing.
Frenchy’s 2008 performance even earned him a demotion to Triple-A during the season. Prior to being sent down around Independence Day, he was hitting .234/.287/.374, with eight home runs. Upon returning a week later, Jeff hit .245/.303/.340. He improved his on-base percentage despite still posting a poor split-mark, but continued to exhibit less power. Francoeur is just 24 years old, but he does not walk, strikes out far too often, seems to rely on BABIP fluctuations to get him on base, and has shown very alarming signs in his fading power-hitting game. The formula for his success remains the same: he needs to lay off of outside pitches, which will cause pitchers to throw into his wheelhouse more often, giving him ample opportunity to get his bat on the ball. This will lead to an increased rate of walks, a higher OBP, and hopefully, a higher SLG. If he cannot make these adjustments, even his above-average defense will not keep him on the field for 162 games on a team seriously trying to contend. —Eric Seidman
**
By DAP
December 22, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this
salty dawg im with you on tex. its just that him not playing LF is not a reason the braves arent interested in him.
By Jersey Gil
December 22, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this
KC The Problem with your Number is, (I know this is not a Prediction) if the Rotation only have 66 Win…So the Bullpen have to come at list with 30 Win to win totals of 96 Games. The Phillis last year have 18 Wins from the Bullpen. The best yr any team has a good pen ratio was the KC Royals with 20 wins.So let said that the Atlanta Bullpen win the same of the Phillis last year (18) we end up with 84 wins, and that i don’t think if enough to win the Division.
By Bill
December 22, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this
Trade Kotchman back to Angles and sign Dunn for two yrs. to play first. Might get Adenhart for Kotch. I like the idea of signing Paul Byrd for one year. That way no long term contracts.
By David O'Brien
December 22, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this
I was hoping The North Mississippi Allstars - Hernando would have made your list. Definitely one of my favorites of the year.Chattanooga
Ding ding ding. The first correction I must make. Because I thought it came out at the end of 2007, or else I’d have certainly put it on my 50. Turns out it came out in January 2008. I’ve gotta find a spot for it now.
By David O'Brien
December 22, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this
Salty Dawg: Very true in your 3:30 points about Smoltz. Even when pitching injured last year, he was the most dominant pitcher on the team.
By KC
December 22, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this
Billy Walsh: to explain why I think Tommy Hanson might be capable of a sub-4.00 ERA and 11 wins in his rookie season…
In addition to his no-hitter last season, and his overall dominance in the minor leagues (please see my previous post with Bill Shank’s comments), his success in the Arizona Fall League was unprecedented.
In 5 starts in the AFL, Hanson went 5-0 with a 0.63 ERA. In 28.2 innings… 10 hits, 7 walks, *49 K’s, and .105 opposing average.*
5 starts, no matter how dominant he was, might be rightfully taken with a grain of salt if not for the nature of the Arizona Fall League. The AFL is where most teams send their best prospects to get a closer a look at them against the top talent from other organizations. What’s more, the AFL is not just a hitter-friendly league… it is a HITTER DOMINATED league!
Traditionally, scouts say not to put too much stock into the performance of any player in the Arizona Fall League… that is, when their talking about hitters, or about the disappointing performance of a pitching prospect. That’s because the AFL is known to ridiculously inflate offense.
Last year, the Arizona Fall League averaged 6.9 runs per nine innings (per team); the league average in MLB this year was 4.7 runs per nine innings, and even the hitter-friendly California League was “only” 5.2 runs per nine.
Think of a pitcher having that kind of success in Coors Field… pre-humidor!… and you’ll have some idea of how incredible Tommy Hanson was in the AFL, and why he was the first pitcher in the history of the league to win the AFL MVP award.
The last time the Braves had a major league ready (or close) minor league pitcher with this high a ceiling? His name rhymes with Yohn Snoltz.
I think of Tommy Hanson as a talent similar to Tim Lincecum and Cole Hamles (to name a couple of young aces). I’m not predicting that he’ll eventually turn out to be as good as Lincecum, but it won’t surprise me in the least if that turns out to be the case.
Anyway, Lincicum and Hamels both posted ERA’s of around 4.00 in their rookie seasons, and neither of them were supported by particularly good bullpens. I believe a bullpen can account to as much as ½ swing –one way or the other- in a starter’s ERA (and it certainly makes a difference in win total). With Gonzalez, Soriano, and Moylan (should be back in April or May), I think the Braves will have a excellent bullpen, which will help to shave the ERA of Braves starters a bit. And this pen should protect the vast majority of leads it is handed, which will help win totals.
So in short, the immense talent of Hanson and a strong Braves bullpen are what make me believe that Hanson may be more than capable of 11 wins and an ERA around or slightly under 4.00 in his rookie season. Again, not predicting it… just saying that it things go well for him, I don’t think it’s at all farfetched.
By David O'Brien
December 22, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this
If it were 19 degrees outside today, I’d have shorts on. Not actually kidding about the last comment.N8
Excuse me for asking, but why?
By KC
December 22, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this
Jersey Gil :
Well, I (in a “better case scenario”) penciled Smoltz in at 22 starts, and Hanson at 28 starts.
That leaves about 28 starts for someone else (maybe Campillo, if Morton or Glavine grabs the 5 spot) to pick up.
If the fill in starter were to get a decision in 75% of his starts (21), and went just 10-11 in those starts… the Braves would have 76 wins from the rotation.
By Random
December 22, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this
Robbie T: “I do not understand why everyone is so dead set on the Braves resigning John Smoltz.”
First off — loyalty is a two-way street.
But more important, the whole basic premise is that he will be able to pitch next season.
No one here is saying to sign him regardless of whether he can pitch effectively. The underlying assumption, based half on his progress so far, half on his history of coming back from surgery, and half on hope, is that he will be able to come back and perform almost as well as he did in 2005, 2006 and 2007, when he logged over 200 IP each year, with ERAs between 3.00 and 3.50 and WHIPs between 1.15 and 1.20.
But bottom-line is, if he can pitch at all next year, it damwell oughta be for the Braves.
“Smoltz has gone down several times in the past at crunch time and he will again.”
I think you’re just making this up — can you give any f’r instances?
Finally, old horses can become the glue that holds the new team together — have you ever heard that old saying before?
(No, you haven’t, ‘cause I just made it up.)
By BravesFan79
December 22, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this
Robbie T: Why dont you go cheer for the Yankees instead of the Braves you fairweather piece of crap.
Your about as loyal as Lebron (Queen) James wearing a Yankees cap to a Cleveland Indians Playoff game.
Smoltz STILL is the best pitcher the Braves have… even if its for only 5 innings at a time now!
By flange1
December 22, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this
Random,
Thanks for the BP report on Frenchy. Interesting information coming from them that actually agrees with we have been saying about him for the last couple of years.
To me this is the make or break year for Jeff. If he does not improve, I don’t know if the Braves will give him another chance in 2010.
By DAP
December 22, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this
If it were 19 degrees outside today, I�d have shorts on. Not actually kidding about the last comment. N8
Excuse me for asking, but why? DOB
i wonder that too. it reminds me of the guys i went to college with up in the foothills of north GA, who would wear flip flops all year long. im talking january/february when its in the teens in north GA. these guys from minnesota are wearing flip flops. i dont care where youre from, in the words of ron burgendy: “thats just dumb.”
By Greg in TN
December 22, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this
Afternoon folks…
DOB, before you get out of town, I hope you have a great time on the slopes and also for a safe landing out in Denver. Also have to wish Carroll Rogers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
And to the masses of Planet Braves, the denizens of this blog, the same sentiments to each of you.
Now, back to baseball. One last thought on the train wreck last week involving a certain shortstop. Have to shake my head at his quotes provided to the AP in terms of disagreeing with FW and JS. This pretty much removes him from the innocent and unstained list as far as this denizen’s concerned. I have always held in high regard former players for what they’ve done while in a Braves uniform, now I have the first exception to that rule. Moving on…
Congratulations to the minor league managers in the Braves organization, who are all returning with their respective teams in ‘09. Dave Brundage will helm the AAA Braves as they open their first season in Gwinnett. Phillip Wellman (Mississippi), Rocket Wheeler (Myrtle Beach), Randy Ingle (Rome), Paul Runge (Danville) and Luis Ortiz (Gulf Coast Braves) also return for their respective teams.
The success and attention the Braves minor league organization has gotten this offseason in terms of trade interest and post-season accolades in winter ball is in no small way a reflection of the excellent job the minor league staff has done with player development. Kudos to each manager, their coaching staffs and to Kurt Kemp, the Braves Director of Player Development.
Lots of things haven’t gone our way in terms of hot stove happenings. I believe FW was trying to be candid and forthright in outlining what the team was trying to accomplish, however it’s certainly being used against him by fans, players and agents. I think DOB is right, we’ll see a lot less from the Braves front office going forward in a return to an approach JS enjoyed.
The Braves have no business trading Chipper (unless he asks for one) and the Braves have no business spending the kind of money Bora$ wants for Tex. I’ve read reports where Sandy Alderson has said that Peavy will remain in San Diego to start the season, which is probably for the best in terms of all parties involved.
The Braves may still attempt to lure Lowe or Sheets (signing Sheets is more doubtful to me than even Lowe, which I view as a longshot in and of itself). They may also wait to see how Smoltz’s rehab continues to go and sign him for the rotation until Tim Hudson can return in 2010.
By stamper
December 22, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this
DAP issues with bradley other than not staying healthy? but i do… I mentioned i believe his stats were padded by playing in Texas (his power numbers totally reflect that). I also said he strikes out too much (for a guy who has never hit 25 HR in any season / nor had even 150 hits in any season). however, his inability to stay healthy (which is heavily documented) is the biggest concern for me. He has NEVER played an entire season without going on the DL. Not once. That to me is a big hiccup. (It’s not like he’s run into a few consecutive years of bad luck, as has been the case with Chipper.) I see Bradley as a guy who can perform, yes. however he is a GUARANTEE to go on the DL. That is my problem with Bradley… that, and the fact his parents actually named him Milton.
By Anders
December 22, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this
Salty Dawg: Very true in your 3:30 points about Smoltz. Even when pitching injured last year, he was the most dominant pitcher on the team
He pitched 28 innings all year! I mean come on.
This is akin to saying “The Titanic, while she was afloat, was the most dominant cruise liner of her day”.
By Salty Dawg
December 22, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this
Random
But bottom-line is, if he can pitch at all next year, it damwell oughta be for the Braves.
Couldn’t have said it any better myself.
Smoltz probably could have gotten more money playing for some other team, but he always did what he had to do to stay with the Braves. To see him leave now because the Braves won’t pony up would be disgraceful. Of course, this is all premature at this point. I believe that FW and BC understand what Smoltz means to this team and this city. For all we know they will pay him whatever it takes to get him back. I can’t imagine Smoltz trying to bleed the Braves for some unreasonable contract given his history and I can’t imagine the Braves declining to offer him a reasonable salary given his history. If they did I’d be the first person outside of Turner Field with placard in hand.
By N8
December 22, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this
DOB & DAP
It’s all relative. It’s been below zero up here for quite some time now. Think about it. If it were to get UP to 19 degrees, that would be about 50-70 degrees warmer than it was last week.
It’s amazing what you get used to.
No different than when I’m watching a September Braves baseball game and the announcers say that it’s a “brisk” 60 degrees at game time, and they pan the crowd and EVERYBODY has winter jackets, winter caps, blankets and coffee/hot chocolate.
In relative terms, in September if your weather gets “down” to the 50’s and 60’s in the evening, that seems pretty damn cold compared to your heat and humidity you get.
The first time I shoveled snow this year, I was wearing shorts. But it wasn’t 30 below. I wear flip-flops all year, unless there is actually snow on the ground. Because, yes, that WOULD be dumb.
Ultimately, I was just giving you crap. I’m sure if I complained about it being hot in July with temps in the 90’s and 30 percent humidity, you’d mock me the same way. LOL!
By Salty Dawg
December 22, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this
Salty Dawg: Very true in your 3:30 points about Smoltz. Even when pitching injured last year, he was the most dominant pitcher on the team
He pitched 28 innings all year! I mean come on.
This is akin to saying “The Titanic, while she was afloat, was the most dominant cruise liner of her day”.
You are absolutely correct. He only pitched 28 innings and only 27 as a starter. In those 27 innings he had a 2.00 ERA, 22 hits, 6 ER, 8 BB with 36 SO. I’d say that is pretty dominant.
By stamper
December 22, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this
DOB good list. I think mine is better, naturally. I still can’t believe you left off MGMT or Vampire Weekend. No bigs. expect the new Andrew Bird album to be on your 2009 list! i just got an early release copy of it - and it’s brilliant.
By Random
December 22, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this
Salty Dawg — Looks like our trains of thought were running parallel there for a while.
If I’d’a known that, I’d’a looked up and waved atcha.
By Kentavo
December 22, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this
Hey DOB, as a fellow journalist, I don’t think it would be dishonest to contact record companies and get on their mailout lists to save you some cash. You are legitimately reviewing them from time to time here on the blog, and you do the year-end list. And the review discs are usually encrypted now so you can’t file share, so it’s not like you’re ripping off the artists - you’re actually providing exposure via this blog.
By N8
December 22, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this
KC
Your 3:32 post with Shanks’ opine of Hanson, is EXACTLY why Hanson stays in a Braves uniform, even if Peavy could be had for him.
Within two years, Hanson will be pitching better (or at least as good as) Peavy, if his “trend” of hits/innings and K/innings stays on the path it has been on for some time now.
By Billy Walsh
December 22, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this
KC
There is no doubt that Hanson has dominated A, AA, and the AFL. James, Reyes, and Morton also put up stellar numbers in the minors (especially Morton in AFL and AAA). Look up Reyes numbers in AAA 2 years ago. Although I do feel that Hanson has more upside than the 3 pitchers mentioned above. I still dont feel that “11” as a win number is fair. The last two braves pitching prospects who were deemed as can’t miss top end of the rotation prospects were Jose Capellan and Bruce Chen, not John Smoltz.
By Anders
December 22, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this
Salty Dawg
Smoltz probably could have gotten more money playing for some other team, but he always did what he had to do to stay with the Braves.
Absolutely true.
I can’t imagine Smoltz trying to bleed the Braves for some unreasonable contract given his history
Why not? Based on your first statement above he’s done his share of sacrificing both in $’s and by moving to the bullpen putting his HOF credentials in jeopardy. Now he see’s the crazy money the Braves offer Burnett who has never thrown a pitch for the Braves and is not even close to the pitcher Smoltz was. These guys are human. It was different when no one got the money from the Braves, but now they’ve shown twice (Furcal) that they are willing to over pay. DOB see’s what Smoltz’s agents did as due diligence. I see it as a warning shot over the bow that he won’t just roll over. Otherwise - why so publicly? He knows the Braves don’t appreciate that. Watch out - Chipper’s next.
By Random
December 22, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this
flange1 —
No problemo — my pleasure.
By Down With The Empire
December 22, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this
Dave, I believe the Yankees, or somebody, may be in trouble with Congress. Post and Daily News are both running stories about how land where new stadium is being built was first appraised at 27 million, but when reaization hit that particular figure would not justify bond allocation, land was rerappraised at over 200 million. Not only is Copngress looking into it, there also may be IRS violations.
By Johnny B
December 22, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this
DOB what about White stripes Icky Thump album!?!
Just read the Furcal article…what BS!
I believe him when he said there was never a deal. They never intended to do a deal with the Braves, only use them to drive up the price and bring the Dodgers to the table.
The Dodgers knew a term sheet meant a deal was eminent and they had to make the offer they did when they did.
They had previously stated their issues/needs and Furcal was down the list…what changed to suddenly make him a priority? A phone call from his agent telling them, “here’s what we got and here’s what it will take.”
The agents, the player, and even the Dodgers can all claim innocent but anyone can read between the lines and find the truth of the story. The Braves were used and played, plain and simple…Good for Frank and John for ” throwing the BS flag. ”
Good bye and good riddance! I echo the sentiments of others one here who can’t wait to boo Furcal and I hope the first pitch drills him square between the shoulder blades!
By McFann O –[zzz]
December 22, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this
Flange1—
Thank you. I enjoy your posts as well! Merry Christmas!
DOB Merry Christmas to all, and sincere thanks to all of you who make this a regular stop on your internet rounds
Thank you, Chief! You’re very much appreciated, too. Love this Blog…wouldn’t be able to get through the off-season-of-uncertainty without it.
And I really enjoy your extra input during the season—those extra quotes that aren’t always in the articles. I think my favorite Blog(s) from the past season was (were) the All-Star Break one(s).
Thank you for all you do! Merry Christmas!
By ppaddy123
December 22, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this
By Mort Merkel December 22, 2008 2:10 PM Furcal is now singing the same tune as his lying agents. I do not believe them. Why? They are not good and virtuous like the Braves are. Amen.
I have been giving this whole issue a lot of thought. Like everyone else, I was upset when it first happened. The problem is Paul Kinser thought he had the deal done. That’s why he asked for the term sheet. His boss, Arn tellem, had a side deal with the Dodgers that Kinser knew nothing about. “THEY” (The Wasserman Group) made a mess out of the deal. If they had stepped up and admitted they had made the mistake, I think it would have played out better than what it did. However, they have chosen to put the blame squarely on the Braves. Big Mistake. Now they have done the Braves wrong twice. 1st by shopping their deal and 2nd by blaming it all on the Braves. I think it will impact their future dealings with ALL MLB CLUBS. Who will trust Kinser or Tellem? These guys have no credibility right now.
So hypothetically, right now, if I’m a free agent and these guys represent me, I have to wonder: if I get short changed is it because of the economy? Or does their appearance as double dealing mean clubs don’t trust them and they aren’t able to make the best deals? I think in the long run, this will cost The Wasserman Agency clients. I think in the back of some GM’s mind right now, he’s wondering about trusting Kinser and Tellem. It might not be all GM’s, but hey…..there’s only 30 of these guys in all of MLB. If only 5 decide they agree with the Braves and back off from Wasserman clients, that’s almost 20% of the league. Boys……….the spin control is not believable. It’s time for you guys to “MAN UP”. Most people will forgive a mistake that is admitted to and apologized for. However, your current actions lead all to believe The Wasserman Media Group is nothing more than “a bunch of greedy, back-stabbing lawyers”. ACTIONS WILL ALWAYS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS
By David O'Brien
December 22, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this
Braves announced minor league managers and coaching staffs today. Only notable changes were in Double-A and Triple-A coaches, with the often-lauded Derek Bothelo moving up from Double-A to Triple-A Gwinnett (many Braves pitchers including Charlie Morton, Tommy Hanson and Kris Medlen gave him a lot of credit for strides made last year).
Brundage is managing the Triple-A team again, and the new hitting coach is Jamie Dismuke, who spent nine seasons in the Reds’ organization including the last five as hitting coach at their Double-A Chattanooga affiliate. He was interim manager for that team’s last 16 games in 2008.
Wellman’s back to manage Double-A Mississippi, and his new coaches are pitching coach Marty Reed, who spent the past nine seasons in the Dodgers organization (minor league pitching coordinator the last three), and hitting coach Roosevelt Brown, 33, making his debut as a hitting coach. Brown was a 20th -round draft pick by the Braves in 1993 and played parts of four major league seasons with the Cubs (1999-2002).
By Anders
December 22, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this
Salty Dawg
You are absolutely correct. He only pitched 28 innings and only 27 as a starter. In those 27 innings he had a 2.00 ERA, 22 hits, 6 ER, 8 BB with 36 SO. I’d say that is pretty dominant.
The guy’s a world class bulldog - no doubt about it. But 28 innings, even as a reliever, isn’t worthy of mention when discussing dominance.
Unless of course you would like to admit the Met’s have been dominating the last two seasons?
By David O'Brien
December 22, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this
Kentavo, you’re probably right. I know an AP sportswriter (not in Atlanta) who gets tons of CD mailed to him and does an occasional brief review for the wire service.
Hey, gotta run all this kind of thing through proper channels, though. In this day and age, you gotta be careful. I might look into it if I think about it this winter.
By N8
December 22, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this
Billy Walsh
Really? Bruce Chen?
Come on man. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to realize that Bruce Chen, Jo-Jo Reyes, Chuck James, Kyle Davies, Horacio Ramirez, etc, etc, etc…. are ALL the same pitchers, in terms of style.
Control pitchers, who mix up their speeds, and have ZERO margin for error, if they “miss” with their pitches, up in the zone.
Glavine and Moyer have made a living pitching like this. Their control is far and away better than the others mentioned. Change up pitchers DOMINATE minor league ball.
1) Young aggressive hitters have no answer for it.
2) Anybody with a “big-league” change up, usually is already in the majors. So minor league hitters don’t see it often enough.
As for Capellan? Maybe he was highly touted. I don’t remember it that way. I would say that the LAST power pitcher causing this much “buzz” for the Braves was a young Millwood. When did he go “down hill”? When his fas ball started topping out in the low 90’s to upper 80’s.
But please don’t insult young Hanson, by mentioning Bruce Chen (he who “netted” us Andy Ashby), in the same sentence EVER again. LOL!
By Braveheart
December 22, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this
Robbie T: Why dont you go cheer for the Yankees instead of the Braves you fairweather piece of crap. Your about as loyal as Lebron (Queen) James wearing a Yankees cap to a Cleveland Indians Playoff game
Doesn’t that make Lebron loyal though? Being from Ohio, it’s very strange that he’s a Yankees fan and not a fan of the Indiians or Reds or some other Midwest team. Considering where he’s from, James was likely a bandwagon jumper at some point in his life. At least, he stayed on the wagon though. A fairweather, disloyal guy would have worn an Indians hat or no hat at all just because he went to a baseball game in Ohio. He stayed true to who he is and what his team is.
personally though, I believe that anyone who wears an opposing team’s gear into a stadium is a douche who’s cruising for a bruising and deserves to have his mouth bloodied and his arse kicked. Well, he doesn’t deserve it exactly …… but, seriously, there’s nothing I hate more than the loser who wears the visiting team’s gear into a stadium and cries after the game because he has beer thrown on him or is cussed at the entire game. It was attention ye sought, so it was attention ye received. You don’t wear a giant Kick Me sign and cry when one of the goons in the stands does just what you asked him to do.
By Random
December 22, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this
N8: “Your 3:32 post with Shanks’ opine of Hanson, is EXACTLY why Hanson stays in a Braves uniform, even if Peavy could be had for him.”
“Opine” is not a noun — you’re looking for “opinion”.
By Salty Dawg
December 22, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this
BravesFan79
Guess you better stay up in the rockies where you can bathe daily in your liberal views that everyone and everything is equal. Meanwhile cats like me that work the streets know thats not the case! In REAL life whites are considered “easy targets” for thugs. Funny ive worked around THOUSANDS of poor indians, mexicans, asians and whites, and NEVER had any problems with them.
Just google “interracial crime” if you doubt me.
Dont think anti-white racism is at a all time high? In one of the top songs right now “Swagga like us” Kanye West claims he was a slave, and calls all whites “S* and Urine”*
Whats sad is our community is taught to be so passive…. its why blacks are taking over, and why our country is going downhill faster than the Jamacian bobslead team!!
What you are saying may well be true, but this isn’t an appropriate forum. Everyone is entitled to their opinion and free speech, but do us all a favor and keep the speech here race/religion/politics neutral. I’m sure there are plenty of blogs out there where this topic would welcome, this just isn’t one of them.
By David O'Brien
December 22, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this
Johnny B, Icky Thump camp out in June 2007, man. That was on last year’s list.
By Anders
December 22, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this
Down With The Empire
The last time the Yanks got into legal trouble (Howie Spira) they went on to win 4 titles in 6 years. I just assume the government leave them alone. The only balance the rest of us have to their $’s is the direct involvement of the Steinbrenner’s in day to day operations.
By DAP
December 22, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this
stamper issues with bradley other than not staying healthy? but i do… I mentioned i believe his stats were padded by playing in Texas (his power numbers totally reflect that).
i saw that you mentioend that…did you look at his power numbers in other seaosns? his best stats were while he was with san diego in 2007. a .590 slg%. that, my firend, is awesome. thats a .533 career slg% at petco, the most firendly of pitcher friendly parks. his OPS+ for 2008 was 163. OPS+ is a park adjusted measure, so ballpark doesnt matter. chipper was 174. ryan howards was 124. see what im saying?
I also said he strikes out too much (for a guy who has never hit 25 HR in any season / nor had even 150 hits in any season).
bradley’s .436 OBP says that his strikouts arent a problem. trust me, strikouts are not a reason not to like bradley. he is a very good hitter even with them. as far as never having 25 HR or even 150 hits…its obvious that this is because he hasnt ever played enough games in a season to achive these numbers. so, again, his not playing enough games should be your problem with him. any other issue doesnt hold water.
I see Bradley as a guy who can perform, yes. however he is a GUARANTEE to go on the DL. That is my problem with Bradley… that, and the fact his parents actually named him Milton.
THERE you go. im behind you on this one.
By Lew
December 22, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this
Yeah-I can just picture Terry Pendleton walking up to Francoeur at the batting cage and saying “Frenchy, My Boy, make sure you beware of those BABIP fluctuations and you will achieve success.” Reallly I can. Sure. Right. Whatever.
By Salty Dawg
December 22, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this
Anders
The guy’s a world class bulldog - no doubt about it. But 28 innings, even as a reliever, isn’t worthy of mention when discussing dominance.
Unless of course you would like to admit the Met’s have been dominating the last two seasons?
I see your point, but you make it sound like those 28 innings were an aberration rather than status quo for for a guy that has arguably been one of the best in the league for a long time. It’s not like he was floundering and then pulled a miraculous 28 innings out of his arse. I’m just saying that for the first month of last season he looked as good or better than he has in years and there is no reason to believe that he wouldn’t have had a stellar year if he had stayed healthy. Of course that didn’t happen, so it’s moot anyway.
Anyway, my only point was that even not at 100% he was probably the best pitcher that the Braves had on the roster. With Huddy out and the Braves unable to pick up a top of the rotation guy, he very well could be the best pitcher they have again next year - if they don’t do something stupid like low-ball him into signing elsewhere. Given the history, I think Smoltz has easily earned the courtesy of a contract good enough for him to finish his career in Atlanta.
By DAP
December 22, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this
N8 Think about it. If it were to get UP to 19 degrees, that would be about 50-70 degrees warmer than it was last week.
i suggest you move down south with us.
anders But 28 innings, even as a reliever, isn’t worthy of mention when discussing dominance.
sure it is, when theres a 2.00 ERA, 34 Ks and a .229 BAA attached to it. he was absolutly dominant until he got hurt.
By Random
December 22, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this
Salty Dawg —
I can envision one scenario in which Smoltz might pitch elsewhere next year. It’s a sappy adaptation of O Henry’s “The Gift of the Magi” (appropriate for the season, huh?):
The Braves want to keep Smoltz, but they love him so much that they don’t want to stand in the way of him playing for a contender.
Smoltz wants to stay with the Braves, but he loves them so much that he doesn’t want to tie their hands salary-wise.
A tearful parting.
Smoltz and the Red Sox finish third in the AL East.
Braves win a tie-breaker game to take the NL Wild Card, and march Marlin-like though October.
By Salty Dawg
December 22, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this
personally though, I believe that anyone who wears an opposing team’s gear into a stadium is a douche who’s cruising for a bruising and deserves to have his mouth bloodied and his arse kicked. Well, he doesn’t deserve it exactly …… but, seriously, there’s nothing I hate more than the loser who wears the visiting team’s gear into a stadium and cries after the game because he has beer thrown on him or is cussed at the entire game. It was attention ye sought, so it was attention ye received. You don’t wear a giant Kick Me sign and cry when one of the goons in the stands does just what you asked him to do.
Dude, have you see LeBron lately? Not really a guy that has to worry about getting into fisticuffs. Plus I’m sure he doesn’t roll alone.
By Bruce's Pearl
December 22, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this
DOB: Are you sure we signed Marty Reed (Dodgers) or was it just a verbal agreement? Seriously I wish Frank Wren would produce the voicemail requesting the fax and the record of the fax and see how Raffy would try to deny it.In all their statements they never question the validity of the fax or voicemail.Furcal has no credibility to me any longer.I sure hope I dont see Cox and the players buddy up with him this year when we play the Dodgers.
By BravesFan79
December 22, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this
all i gotta say is im GLAD that baseball has the diversity (more latin players, asian players,white players) that football and basketball lacks.
And im glad the Braves represent Atlanta well with class acts, and makes me proud to be a Braves fan.
(something most college football and pro football programs cant say).
My favorite players growing up? Ron Gant and Smoltz
By Salty Dawg
December 22, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this
Why not? Based on your first statement above he’s done his share of sacrificing both in $’s and by moving to the bullpen putting his HOF credentials in jeopardy. Now he see’s the crazy money the Braves offer Burnett who has never thrown a pitch for the Braves and is not even close to the pitcher Smoltz was. These guys are human. It was different when no one got the money from the Braves, but now they’ve shown twice (Furcal) that they are willing to over pay. DOB see’s what Smoltz’s agents did as due diligence. I see it as a warning shot over the bow that he won’t just roll over. Otherwise - why so publicly? He knows the Braves don’t appreciate that. Watch out - Chipper’s next.
I just don’t see Smoltz as that kind of guy, meaning one who puts money above all else. And I agree with DOB that his agents are doing their due diligence, but I think it is more of a power move than really looking to sign elsewhere. If he made it clear he has no intent to sign elsewhere, the Braves would have all of the leverage and could very well low ball him. But something tells me that Smoltz’s intent is to sign with the Braves as long as the offer him a reasonable contract. At this point of his career, what sense would it make to leave the only team he has ever known to go play a year or two away from home? Sure, it could happen. The lure of another championship could draw him to New York or somewhere with a better shot at the WS. But I just don’t see it happening as long as the Braves do the right thing.
By Salty Dawg
December 22, 2008 5:04 PM | Link to this
Random
I can envision one scenario in which Smoltz might pitch elsewhere next year. It’s a sappy adaptation of O Henry’s “The Gift of the Magi” (appropriate for the season, huh?):
The Braves want to keep Smoltz, but they love him so much that they don’t want to stand in the way of him playing for a contender.
Smoltz wants to stay with the Braves, but he loves them so much that he doesn’t want to tie their hands salary-wise.
A tearful parting.
Smoltz and the Red Sox finish third in the AL East.
Braves win a tie-breaker game to take the NL Wild Card, and march Marlin-like though October.
Good point, and yet another reason I can’t see Smoltzie hanging up the Braves jersey just yet. As we’ve seen over and again, there is just no way to predict who will win it all and who will finish well below expectations.
By the Stranger
December 22, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this
I stop by for the latest on los Bravos; I stay for the music and the pie.
Thanks for taking care of us DOB.
By Lew
December 22, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this
I’ve worn a Braves’ hat and/or T shirt to games in Boston, Toronto and Montreal (even wore a Rays’ shirt and hat to a Red Sox/Rays game in Boston) and never had beer thrown at me (of course I do look like a 300 pond biker with an attitude).
Had to listen to the Red Sox Nation do the Tomahawk Chop while beating us 13-3 though.
Maybe it’s because my BABIP doesn’t fluctuate.
By KC
December 22, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this
Billy Walsh: I have to agree with N8 there.
Bruce Chen was a highly regarded pitching prospect, but Bruce did not have Hanson’s stuff or his presence on the mound. Nor did Chen ever accomplish anything like what Hanson has done over that last 8 months.
Not even close.
And Capallen was a nice prospect because he could throw 100mph, but never became the pitcher (not just a hurler) they hoped he would become, and his star was never anywhere near as high as Hanson’s is right now.
Again, after a no-hitter and over dominance at the minor league level, HE DID SOMETHING NO OTHER PITCHER HAS EVERY DONE in the Arizona Fall League, and they’ve had some great ones go through there.
Hanson is the most promising prospect the Braves have had since smoltz. Period.
By Random
December 22, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this
Anders: “I just assume the government leave them alone.”
Whoa, nellie, Anders — that’s a real doozy of a malapropism!!!
I take it you meant to write “I’d just as soon the government leave them alone.”
Hoo-boy, Ive never seen that one before! Thanks.
Lew: “Yeah-I can just picture Terry Pendleton walking up to Francoeur at the batting cage and saying ‘Frenchy, My Boy, make sure you beware of those BABIP fluctuations and you will achieve success.’ Reallly I can. Sure. Right. Whatever.”
No — TP’s more likely to say something like the following:
“Jeff-dog, you know you’ve been lucky as h3ll that so many of those balls fell in — way more than you’d expect for how you’re hittin’ ‘em.
“You ain’t always gonna be that lucky, so you better straighten up and fly right. Listen to me.
“You saw what happened to Matt Diaz’ numbers when his luck ran out last year. And you saw how Chipper’s numbers fell when his luck ran out and all those seeing-eye grounders stopped getting through round about the middle of last June.
“You can’t control your luck, boy — you need to start doin’ some work on somethin’ you can control, like pitch recognition and strike zone judgment.”
Btw, you stink at sarcasm.
By Seth
December 22, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this
DOB, will there be any formal notice when/if the Braves decided to concede this season and working on a powerful squad for 2010?
I don’t ask this in jest. I just want to know so I can prevent the heartbreak I feel every day when I check my five websites to see if any moves have been made and am sorely dissapointed.
By Salty Dawg
December 22, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this
To me this is the make or break year for Jeff. If he does not improve, I don’t know if the Braves will give him another chance in 2010.
Yep. My gut tells me Frenchy either shows a big improvement or ends up in the minors next year. You know he must kick himself every day for passing up whatever extension the Braves offered him. But hey, I think he is arb eligible next year, so he’ll probably have the best season of his career.
By Lew
December 22, 2008 5:21 PM | Link to this
What would a complete @$$ know about sarcasm?
By Anders
December 22, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this
Salty Dawg
I see your point. What I was saying is that 28 innings isn’t enough of a body of work to be deemed dominant when considering the length of the season. That’s not the context you intended - my bad. I have the utmost respect for Smoltz. Always have.
Random I have to be honest. I meant what I wrote. I was wrong, but I meant it. Thanks for the correction to my Archie Bunkerism.
By KC
December 22, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this
ppaddy123: “Now they have done the Braves wrong twice. 1st by shopping their deal and 2nd by blaming it all on the Braves. I think it will impact their future dealings with ALL MLB CLUBS. Who will trust Kinser or Tellem? These guys have no credibility right now.”
My initial inclination has been to think “Does it really matter whether or not people trust these guys? I mean, if people want the players they represent, they’re going to deal with them”.
But it does matter.
An agent can tell a GM that another team has bid XYZ, but does the GM believe him? When a team reaches a point at which they suspect they’re bidding against themselves, they stop bidding.
GM’s have no way of knowing (unless of course, the agent shows them another team’s term sheet… a previously unprecedented maneuver) whether the agent is bluffing about other teams’ offers. But the more the GM perceives that agent to be full of $%^&*… the less likely they are to believe their claims.
Screwing the Braves over will hurt this agency, as well it should.
By Lew
December 22, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this
Frenchy’s arbitration eligible THIS year. Don’t expect he’ll get too big a raise, though.
By brent a.
December 22, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this
personally though, I believe that anyone who wears an opposing team’s gear into a stadium is a douche who’s cruising for a bruising and deserves to have his mouth bloodied and his arse kicked. Well, he doesn’t deserve it exactly …… but, seriously, there’s nothing I hate more than the loser who wears the visiting team’s gear into a stadium and cries after the game because he has beer thrown on him or is cussed at the entire game. It was attention ye sought, so it was attention ye received. You don’t wear a giant Kick Me sign and cry when one of the goons in the stands does just what you asked him to do.
The problem is not that people wear opposing team’s gear into arenas.
The problem is that people feel justified in cursing, throwing objects, and getting into fights over sporting events.
I’ve worn opposing colors to stadiums my entire life. I’ve never had a single problem. Ever.
Maybe I’m just lucky. But, I actually think it is more likely that I don’t have problems because I don’t drink, use foul language, or otherwise jeer the other team or its fans.
The absolute worst thing I’ve ever had happen to me is a Florida fan softly throw a dime at me in the line to get on a bus in Gainesville after a Kentucky-Florida game.
By Anders
December 22, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this
Lew
Frenchy’s arbitration eligible THIS year. Don’t expect he’ll get too big a raise, though.
Have you been following Wren’s off season? Anything’s possible.
By Screen guy # 1 to Screen guy # 2
December 22, 2008 5:34 PM | Link to this
I told you that guy wasn’t a tipper. Froze our butts off all day and he gives us signed pictures of Tyler Flowers! Who the He11 is Tyler Flowers?
By j-school dropout
December 22, 2008 5:34 PM | Link to this
You know I always thought Furcal had little man syndrome and that he wasn’t a team player. But I had no idea that he was such an A-Hole. My sweet Lord, did he really call John Schuerholz a liar? Really? What a flaming jerk. Glad he stayed in LA, Still want him taken out first time the Braves play the Dodgers. I mean cleats high in the calf and fastball to the back. I normally have no ill will for a ball player, but Furcal seriously needs to be DLed on his first appearance back in Atlanta.
By Johnny B
December 22, 2008 5:38 PM | Link to this
DOB Right you are sir!…My bad, somehow I missed last years list and only really got “turned on” to Icky Thump after watching the 2008 Grammies.
By Doc Holiday
December 22, 2008 5:42 PM | Link to this
DOB
Am I included in your good wishes and your thanks for stopping on the blog??? Hope so…….. ;-)
By Screen guy # 2 to Screen guy # 1
December 22, 2008 5:42 PM | Link to this
Hey, it could have been worse. He could have given us some of that Miley Cyrus crap he has hanging all over the walls of his house.
By Anders
December 22, 2008 5:46 PM | Link to this
Brent a
I’m with you. I’ve worn opposing paraphenalia to other teams venues my whole life and have never had a problem. Most people actually strike up a conversation with you because of it. The only place I’ve been where I didn’t wear it was Philly. I can’t say anything ever happened to me there but their reputation proceeds them and it isn’t worth the risk imo.
By Lew
December 22, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this
Anders-You could be right. I should not take anything for granted.
By Joe M. (Resign Smoltz Already)
December 22, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this
Oh no, Bowman speaks of Blanco/Anderson in center and Jordan Schafer in the minors to start the season. If that is the case, and the Braves fail to get a good, power-hitting left fielder (and with Frank Wren’s “success” so far this offseason, who’d here be surprised?), the Braves outfield will be: Diaz, Blanco/Anderson, Stenchy. I don’t think I could watch that suck again.
Hope the Braves don’t wait till July again like this past season with another certain Atlanta Braves’ outfielder to realize Blanco/Anderson aren’t working and call up Schafer.
By Lew
December 22, 2008 6:05 PM | Link to this
j-school dropout-In the immortal words of Graham Parker “It ain’t the knife through the heart that tears you apart-it’s just the thought of someone sticking it in.” I doubt the fans will let him forget this-ever.
I’d be surprised if he got decked at bat, but someone might take him out at second on a DP pivot.
By TommyBoy
December 22, 2008 6:10 PM | Link to this
DOB, may I suggest that you listen to the latest release (from earlier this year) by King’s X, called “XV”. They’re a threesome that’s been around for over 20 years, hale from the Houston area, and they play some awesome melodic hard rock with a somewhat groove/funk tinge to some songs. I’ve been a huge fan of theirs since 1990 or so, and it’s a damn shame that they’ve never received any widespread popularity.
After some lackluster albums in recent years, “XV” shows that the guys in King’s X still have it, and I’ve loved that album since it came out this past summer.
If you want to hear three tunes from “XV” without buying it, go to their website, www.kingsxrocks.com and click on the “Audio” link.
If you like “XV” and decide you want to hear more of King’s X, I suggest getting their “Dogman”, “Ear Candy”, and “Tapehead” albums. Many die-hard King’s X fans think that their second album, “Gretchen Goes to Nebraska” (from 1989) is their best, so you might want to give it a shot, too.
By Salty Dawg
December 22, 2008 6:10 PM | Link to this
Anders
I’m with you. I’ve worn opposing paraphenalia to other teams venues my whole life and have never had a problem. Most people actually strike up a conversation with you because of it. The only place I’ve been where I didn’t wear it was Philly. I can’t say anything ever happened to me there but their reputation proceeds them and it isn’t worth the risk imo.
I think for the most part you are okay wearing the other team’s colors as long as you aren’t obnoxious. But when your team wins or is winning and you act like a jerk some people (possibly with a few too many beers) is going to take it to the next level. I saw a guy at the UGA/Tennessee game in Athens last year donning UT apparel and acting like an a$$ after UT walked all over UGA. He got his face pounded to a pulp.
By nolie
December 22, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this
Come on man. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to realize that Bruce Chen, Jo-Jo Reyes, Chuck James, Kyle Davies, Horacio Ramirez, etc, etc, etc…. are ALL the same pitchers, in terms of style. N8
How long you been following the Braves, Neight ? Bruce Chen was Atlanta’ number one rated prospect by Baseball America for two years in a row in the late ’90s just B4 Fookie and them Betemit for 2 years. Bruce was highly touted in the minors. Another can’t miss guy like Betemit and Marte other two year leaders who never performed like expected. and by the way there is a big difference in most of those pitchers you mentioned, even if you can’t see it. Now if you had said in results i might buy that.
By tacdawg
December 22, 2008 6:14 PM | Link to this
What about Rocco Baldelli?
By Braveheart
December 22, 2008 6:16 PM | Link to this
I’d be surprised if he got decked at bat, but someone might take him out at second on a DP pivot.
Nah, we’ll just have Yunel swing that leg like a hammer again and concuss Furcal’s noggin out for the season like he did to Church.
By Roberty
December 22, 2008 6:24 PM | Link to this
It’s time to throw in the towel. We can trade away as many prospects we want, the Braves will finish no higher than third place next season.
We need to make more deals like the one that brought Jurrjens to Atlanta, and put together a team that can win the world series in 3 years.
If the Yankees fail to sign Manny or Teixeira I think Chipper Jones would be a great fit at first base/DH, and an even better fit batting behind A-Rod.
A lot of teams are in the market for a closer or set up man, and Mike Gonzales is cheap and could bring a decent return.
Resign John Smoltz! Then trade him mid-season.
Resign Will Ohman! Then trade him!
If Sorriano and Moylan come back healthy, trade em!
Do not trade: Kelly Johnson, Brian McCann, Yunel Escobar, Jair Jurrjens, Tommy Hanson, Jason Heyward.
By Braveheart
December 22, 2008 6:24 PM | Link to this
I’m with you. I’ve worn opposing paraphenalia to other teams venues my whole life and have never had a problem.
I guess Anders has never been to Yankee Stadium
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ztPQieRucKE
By Salty Dawg
December 22, 2008 6:30 PM | Link to this
Seth
DOB, will there be any formal notice when/if the Braves decided to concede this season and working on a powerful squad for 2010?
You won’t hear such a statement from the Braves. More likely you’ll hear, “We’re comfortable with the roster as it stands today” or “We think we can compete without any further additions”. But I really think that if it comes down to it FW will end up overpaying for some player, be it SP or OF, to at least improve the team in some way. The big concern would be overpaying for the long term. If they aren’t able to get two solid pitchers and a power hitting LF, which seems unlikely at this point, they can still add a big dollar 1 year contract and not have a negative impact on next year’s payroll. In that case we would go through the same routine again unless some young guys show they have the stuff.
By GSU-Lee
December 22, 2008 6:34 PM | Link to this
Merry Christmas DOB, be safe
By Chop Chop
December 22, 2008 6:39 PM | Link to this
Lew,
If the Braves act like that toward Furcal, I’ll be shocked. The man didn’t want to play in Atlanta. His agents used the Braves, but I guarantee you that Furcal didn’t have anything to do with that. I also don’t blame him for sticking up for his agents. They’ve gotten him paid a lot of money over the years.
There’s just too much damn whining on this blog, man. Paying Furcal $10 million a year would have been a big mistake. Same goes for paying Burnett $16 million a year. Wren has been saved from making bad deals. I believe the Braves are damn lucky to have avoided those deals, but Wren’s loose lips suckered in many fans. These fans want to believe in Wren. When he fails to deliver, it’s hard not to feel like he’s an ineffective GM.
As for me, I’d like to believe in Wren, but the man’s in a bad situation. He’s the hand-picked successor to a legendary general manager. He’s working for owners who seem to have little interest in the operation of the club. He has a managerial legend that’s about to retire. He has an all-time great third baseman winding down his career. He has two old future Hall of Fame pitchers that currently cannot be penciled in anywhere in the rotation or bullpen for 2009. He has a right fielder that no one can figure out. He has a gigantic black hole in left field. He has a first baseman that can’t hit for power, a second baseman who is a very poor fielder, a question mark in center field, gaping holes in the pitching rotation (regardless of what those HOF pitchers do), and a fan base that is expecting young prospects to take over and make this team a winner soon.
I don’t envy the man at all, but Wren’s encouragement of fan expectations was exactly the wrong thing to do. I’d rather see him take care of business behind the scenes. Loose lips sink ships.
By AdirondackDave
December 22, 2008 6:40 PM | Link to this
Where is Ty Cobb when you need him… I can see those spikes flying into second with Furcal trying to put the tag on him. Now that would be worth the price of a ticket.
By AdirondackDave
December 22, 2008 6:42 PM | Link to this
Where is Ty Cobb when you need him… I can see those spikes flying into second with Furcal trying to put the tag on him. Now that would be worth the price of a ticket.
By Braveheart
December 22, 2008 6:43 PM | Link to this
Yeah-I can just picture Terry Pendleton walking up to Francoeur at the batting cage and saying “Frenchy, My Boy, make sure you beware of those BABIP fluctuations and you will achieve success.” Reallly I can. Sure. Right. Whatever
Lew, then why do you always cite K/BB ratios for pitchers? K/BB ratios only have meaning because we understand the meaning of BABIP.
And wasn’t Frenchy the most guilty of anyone this season of blaming BABIP? He didn’t say the actual phrase but he annoying always used the concept, He was always saying I’m right on it, just hitting it right at ‘em, not getting the lucky breaks or bounces, I’m hitting the ball just so but it ain’t landing just so, sometimes ya gotta tip your cap to the defense, etc., etc., etc.
By Cory
December 22, 2008 6:45 PM | Link to this
I have pretty much given up all hope for a successful season for the Braves this year. I was excited when I heard that they had 40 million to spend after the horrible season we had, but here it is almost January of 2009 and all we have done was traded for Javier Vasquez and gave up a player (Tyler Flowers) who we said no to the Padres in the Peavy talks.
Sounds like another bonehead move when you tell the Padres that you won’t include a player for Peavy, but you give him up for a non ace like Vasquez.
I think I will pass on ordering MLB Extra Innings this year, and take a year off from watching baseball. Another season like last year will do me in, and it looks like that is exactly where this team is headed. I will just check the internet each day and find out they lost another game instead of paying good money to watch them lose on a nightly basis. Thanks Frank Wren for taking away my passion for baseball.
By detroitchris
December 22, 2008 6:49 PM | Link to this
DOB, no kathleen edwards?
By BravesFanInRockies
December 22, 2008 6:51 PM | Link to this
Lew (6:05)
If I may spread a rumour, that was a sensational lyric you referenced. And while you’re at it, don’t bother with the local girls.
By Chop Chop
December 22, 2008 6:54 PM | Link to this
Bobby’s always talking about how balls just aren’t dropping in/how balls are just finding holes.
Let’s call him “BABIP” (Bah-BIP) Cox.
By Lew
December 22, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this
ChopChop-I’m not upset he isn’t coming to the Braves, I just don’t like the way it all came down. He should have just shut his mouth though.
By Lew
December 22, 2008 7:08 PM | Link to this
BravesFanInRockies-Just squeezing out some sparks.
By Lew
December 22, 2008 7:17 PM | Link to this
Braveheart-Dude, over analysis and (in Random’s case) thinking I was ripping him, kills the whole point. It was a witticism-not a condemnation of Bill James (or whomever). So I won’t try out for any Comedy Central specials. Sue me.
By bravesfan54
December 22, 2008 7:31 PM | Link to this
Ron Roberts (at 3:18) -
You are so right; I agree with points 1,2, and 3 (not sure about all of 4). Smoltz has pride, he would not announce his return were he not sure of his ability to pitch effectively out of the chute or the pen. Milton Bradley makes sense. I don’t like the guy, but I didn’t (and still don’t) like Sheffield. I didn’t (and still don’t)like JD Drew- and we’ve had other “azzholes”, besides these guys. Byrd is simply a smart move; good numbers, relatively cheap, relatively durable, and brings it. Not sure about trading “budding outfielders” and young pitchers for Peavy - if it includes the best of our youth. Not impressed with Peavy’s stance, as not all the blame can be placed on the Padres’ negotiator. He hasn’t wanted to play in Atlanta, so it seems - and he needs to commit now, not during his desultory season in San Diego with the Braves’ showing life.
What I like about your post is that it gives reasonable hope for the season, at reasonable cost, doesn’t blow up the team, and yet recognizes (except for trading young pitchers) the reality of our situation.
By CaliChopper
December 22, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this
If Furcal wanted to sign with a team that will make the playoffs, he signed with the wrong team. While the NL west is a weak division and anything can happen there, the only reason the Dodgers made the playoffs was they signed Manny and he carried them. Unless the Dodgers resign Manny and he does a repeat on the carrying job… It isn’t gonna happen. welcome back to 3rd place Raffie.
By David O'Brien
December 22, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this
Detroitchris, something had to give. I love that Kathleen Edwards album, but I left off about a dozen others that I really liked a lot, too. Elvis Costello’s latest, for instance. And B.B. King’s best album in years. Tilly and the Wall. Dead Confederate. The Whigs. The Selmanaires, etc.
By David O'Brien
December 22, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this
DOB, will there be any formal notice when/if the Braves decided to concede this season and working on a powerful squad for 2010?Seth
Yes, Seth, the Braves plan to announce during the February pitching camp at Turner Field whether they are conceding the season or plan to try competing.
By glorydays
December 22, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this
Anyone,
I know this is his busy time of the year but does anybody know what has happened to Grinch? I havn’t seen a comment from him recently.
By Sautee
December 22, 2008 8:13 PM | Link to this
DOB
I’ll have to say that I’m surprised that Chuck Brodsky’s Two Sets wasn’t on the list, given your strong reaction to it.
Thanks for the good discussions, Braves and music.
Have a great time snowboarding.
peace
By fastasballs
December 22, 2008 8:15 PM | Link to this
Merry Christmas to DOB & everyone on the blog. It’s been a crazy year for the Braves & the country as well so I’m hoping we all have a better 2009. If I didn’t fear a few years in the gray bar motel, I’d send some of you guys a few mason jars of quality bootleg from the Moonshine capital of the world.
By David O'Brien
December 22, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this
Loved Brodsky’s Two Sets and his Baseball Ballads, but frankly I thought both were pre-2008. Have the Two Sets in the bedroom, good late-night tuneage.
Guess I should’ve gone back there and looked a little closer, but I’ve got stacks and stacks of CDs in three or four different rooms. LIke I said, bound to miss some good ones.
(Just went back to my room and saw that Two Sets did come ou in ‘08. And also noticed another I forgot about — the new Neil Young release, Sugar Mountain — Live at Canterbury House from 1968, when he was 22, just before his solo debut came out and after Buffalo Springfield broke up.
Imagine that, they’re just releasing something from the vaults 40 years later, and it’s great stuff, including a handful of songs that showed up on the Neil Young album. He tells rambling stories between songs, and sounds like a kid.
Anyway, I just got it and have only listened to it twice. Forgot about it last night.
By Billy Walsh
December 22, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this
N8,
Thanks for the pitching lessson, maybe you should replace me as the Rutgers University pitching coach. How quickly we forget. Bruce Chen, by Baseball America was voted the top Atlanta Brave prospect of the decade. I saw Chen pitch. He had a 92-94 fastball with good movement and a good change. The problem was his curve. It never developed by major league standards. As far as an insult to Hanson? Bruce Chen won 35 games in the major leagues. How many wins as a major leaguer does Hanson have? Also, there are many more finesse pitchers that have succeeded in the majors besides Moyer and Glavine. Don Sutton, Fergie Jenkins,Tommy John, Bob Welch, Doug Drabek, and Jimmy Key were all control/finesse pitchers who all had great careers.. Power pitchers can get away with a lot because of their stuff. That does not last forever (ask the Big Unit). Sooner or later, you have to learn how to pitch.
By richbrave
December 22, 2008 8:49 PM | Link to this
DAP:
Off-line for a few days. Down in CHATTANOOGA. GO SPIDERS #1. MAKERS MARK weekend.
By glorydays
December 22, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this
N8 Too late, Billy Walsh has already been replaced as pitching coach based on the website. No BW mentioned
By richbrave
December 22, 2008 9:10 PM | Link to this
LEE in SGA:
Thanks for the link. Interesting article.
By f.n. hale
December 22, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this
Efrim & Anders
to revisit your discussion about Chipper this morning, I proposed trading him to the Yankees last week and unless I missed it got no response. Not sure if folks here thought it was stupid proposing trading him at all or that the Yanks would consider giving up Hughes, Kennedy and Melky for him (probably the latter) but even for Kennedy and Melky IF they could get Chipper to extend his contract for 2 years at $18mm per, couldn’t that work? If he was willing to move to first or DH, and I have no idea if he would, that’d be a heck of a pickup for them. Yes, they would be overpaying by most team’s standards, but when have they not been willing to do that? I don’t see them having plans for Kennedy and they’re already shopping Melky. Chipper is good friends with AJ and Jeter and surely would like to go out a winner. He would be serviceable in left for them or pretty good at first or maybe the best DH in the game. Plus, can he really be looking at more than 2 years at $18mm per on the FA market with his injury history?
By WrenFlops
December 22, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this
I went through the 70’s and 80’s as a Braves fan, so I say don’t trade any of our prospects, maybe add a pitcher like Kawakami to tie you over. If you can get a hitter or two on the market, that’s cool. The Braves would have to do so much to catch Philadelphia and NY at this point that it may prove wise to just hold the line and go hard after it next season with some of the newbies.
By Chris from the Rock
December 22, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this
Just curious DOB, but was Chuck James one of the guys working on your patio screens? Just wondering, since he’s now unemployed, if he was picking up hours at Lowe’s this year.
By Billy Walsh
December 22, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this
And what website would that be glorydays? Billy Walsh is my screen name here (ever watch entourage). If your actually interested, and I am sure your not, my last name is Roth and I coach for Rutgers-Camden campus in NJ.
By Bravo Man
December 22, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this
2009 Sign- Smoltz, Kawakami, Burrell, Glavine Rotation-1.Smoltz 2.Jurrjens 3.Vazquez 4.Kawakami 5.Hanson/Glavine/Campillo Lineup-1.Anderson 2.Escobar 3.Jones 4.Burrell 5.McCann 6.Francoeur 7.Johnson 8.Kotchman 2010 Sign-Lackey Rotation-1.Hudson 2.Lackey 3.Jurrjens 4.Vazquez 5.Kawakami/Hanson Braves win the east 2010! They will contend this year i promise you, but next year will go very smothly if the right deals get done this year. Don’t worry about the past Frank Wren. F******* and Burrnett are injury bugs and if theres one thing i don’t wont to repeat from the 08 Braves it’s the frequent injurys. The Braves still have plenty of dough to spend and Wren’s kept our untouchable prospects intact. Now lets make John Smoltz our 2009 opening day starter to face the Phillies come April. Suck it Phillies! Go Braves!
By Random
December 22, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this
KC —
It’s gonna be up to the MLB Players’ Association to address any shortcomings or improper behavior of Wasserman etc.
The Association is the only party to the CBA with the responsibility and authority to certify players’ agents. Or not.
I’m looking forwward to see what if any action the Association takes in regard to the matter.
Lew: “I’d be surprised if he got decked at bat, but someone might take him out at second on a DP pivot.”
I sincerely doubt that any of the Braves’ players are as affronted either personally or professionally as either the Braves’ fans or management appear to be. I don’t foresee any hard or high slides, beanballs, brushbacks, etc, as a result of this episode.
By NCBravesFan
December 22, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this
DOB Re: Your 4:28pm … Derek Botehlo … wow, brings back memories of my youth in Omaha, when he was a prospect for the Royals, and I was stationed at Offutt AFB.
DB never quite made it over the hump in the bigs, but he pitched some good games in the minors. Omaha Royals games were a real treat.
How time flies.
By Random
December 22, 2008 10:06 PM | Link to this
Lew: “What would a complete @$$ know about sarcasm?”
Exactly! Thank you.
Keep trying, though.
By Memories
December 22, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this
Remember when some on this blog mid-season last year were saying they’d happily trade Kelly Johnson but would be angry if the Braves traded “Mexican Maddux” aka Jorge Campillo? Good, crazy times.
I wonder if the Braves would consider signing Brian Fuentes at a bargin-basement price and trading Gonzalez and maybe Prado or a prospect for Ryan Ludwick.
By mitchie-san
December 22, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this
Mele Kalikimaka, DOB
By winterville
December 22, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this
DOB
I think the other day you were talking about the newest Lee Ann Womack CD. I just got a chance to listen to it and you were right. She is absolutely awesome. The Bees is one of my favorites off it. How did it stack up for your top 50? Her voice is something else.
By Needs Assessment
December 22, 2008 10:49 PM | Link to this
As I see it, for what that’s worth: 1) agree with DOB…get Dye - good solid option for power hitter/OF. If not him, then Dunn 2) Go after Byrd, maybe even a flyer on Mulder—-I don’t Glav will be back 3) Either trade for Greinke, or get Perez once his market drops some, which it will just like Lowe. No to Sheets or Lowe. I tink Perez will be like JV and thrive better in Cox’s tenure than where he’s been. 4) Sit on $$$ left and re-tool again for 2010. Once Smoltz is OK’d and looks ready, definitely get him on board.
By David O'Brien
December 22, 2008 11:14 PM | Link to this
mitchie-san: mahalo.
Winterville: That CD definitely could have made it. Really good one. But I tell you what, the one she did before that — There’s More Where That Came From — is even better. That one was great, one of my favorite country albums of the past few years.
By auburnbrave
December 22, 2008 11:14 PM | Link to this
Not to sound too condescending, because I’m actually of the same opinion, but the Braves’ reporters are sounding like they have for the past couple of seasons as the end has drawn near…
There’s still time… it’s early… no really…. When everyone in their right mind knows that things are not going well and it’s probably time to pack it in and look towards future endeavors.
I do believe the Braves can get something done to make the team more competitive for next season, but it’s doubtflul at this point that they’ll make an game changing move that will put them in a position to run with the Mets or Phillies.
Lets face it, things have gone poorly for Wren and the front office this off season, no need to sugar coat it or put on the rose colored glasses.
By S
December 22, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this
Looking back I think we will be glad the Braves didn’t get Peavy, Burnett, or Furcal. The cost in $ or players wasn’t worth it not with the injury risk on them. I would sign Burrell or Dunn for LF. They will have a lot of Ks but Chipper or McCann will also see more pitches with one hitting between them. Plus we need some power from somewhere. Go ahead and sign Smoltz and Glavine. Smoltz is a must if healthy. Also, would go after Lowe if we can’t sign him would get Penny, Garland, Looper, or Byrd if all else fails. If Glavine retires would sign Mulder to incentive based deal. At only 31 he has a chance to come back I expect Frenchy to bounce back and have a decent year. Think he learned his lesson on trying to hit homers and will focus on getting good hits. The Angels have to hate trading Kotchman now. I think he led them RBIs for 1st part of the year. (Tex is a good player but not 20+ million good) Anderson CF, Yunel 2B, Chipper 3B, Dunn/Burrell lF, McCann C, Kelly 2B, Kotchman 1B, Frenchy RF Lowe, Smoltz, JJ, Vazquez,Glavine/or Mulder With Morton, Hanson, and Shafer in AAA in case someone doesn’t come through
By Romal Gal
December 23, 2008 12:02 AM | Link to this
personally though, I believe that anyone who wears an opposing team’s gear into a stadium is a douche who’s cruising for a bruising and deserves to have his mouth bloodied and his arse kicked. Braveheart
Hmm…I guess it wouldn’t be very prudent of me to wear my Braves gear in New York next summer.
*Saw the Trans-Siberian Orchestra last night in Detroit, and man, what a show that was. Excellent. I’d recommend it to anyone, even if you’re not a big fan of Christmas music * Steve from OH
I’m so jealous of you. I think I could listen to Christmas music all year. (Yes, I’m one of those people.) I’ve always wondered how their live performances would sound…When they came to Atlanta in November I couldn’t go and was pretty disappointed. Oh well, though, maybe next year.
By Randy
December 23, 2008 12:26 AM | Link to this
DOB,
Any chance the Braves hire Sharon Haithcock as a bench coach?
By N8
December 23, 2008 12:35 AM | Link to this
nolie
I’ve been following PLENTY, for the past 3 decades.
Are you REALLY gonna sit there and tell me that after you saw Chen pitch for the Braves you were excited about him?
This team has been lacking POWER pitchers that flat out dominate lineups, other than Smoltz (and occasionally Hudson - with JJJ chipping in a bit last year).
Chen, HoRam, Chuck James, Davies and the likes, NEVER excited me. No matter how “highly touted” they were. If Chen was so highly regarded, why did he only net us Andy Ashby?
Come on. Those guys were right there in the “throw at 80 percent velocity, with control” school of thought that Leo demanded of his guys. Only they didn’t remotely have the control that Maddux and Glavine had (who does/did?).
The above mentioned guys were thought of as back of the rotation guys “maybe” #3 or possiblty #2 guys for the rotation, if all things went well.
I truely believe that withing 2 years (barring injury), Hanson will be the ACE of this staff.
Billy Wals
As for Chen’s 35 wins in the major leagues? He’s also got 37 losses, and a career ML ERA of 4.63.
It’s all just a matter of opinion and personal preference. You like Bruce Chen, I never saw anything in him that made me think he would ever amount to much.
I was right.
By Wayne in Utah
December 23, 2008 12:40 AM | Link to this
So Furcal comes through for his boys. I really didn’t expect anything less. Here’s hoping that the very first Braves pitch he see’s this next year “seriously moves him off the plate”.
Nite friends.
By nolie
December 23, 2008 2:29 AM | Link to this
The whole point of my post was that I think Campillo’s 2nd half decline could easily be attributed to fatigue more than players figuring him out Salty Dawg
He pitched a few more innings in 2007 than he did in 2008 so I’m not sure why you’re first thought is fatigue. It’s possible of course, but no more likely than it was the league figuring him out(perhaps both). He basicallt started stinking it up at around 100 or so innings which is a lot less than he pitched in 2007.
Giving an unproven player who ended the previous season with 2 months worth of poor performance the benefit of the doubt is IMO asking for disappointment. He will be around and get his chance, but I’m certainly not counting on him for anything. Some good pitching will be gravy.
By nolie
December 23, 2008 3:35 AM | Link to this
Are you REALLY gonna sit there and tell me that after you saw Chen pitch for the Braves you were excited about him N8
the guy showed a lot of promise in the minors; I watched him pitch a good bit. Yes I thought he would do better in the show than he did, and you should know by now that I’m not a gusher over prospects. Having seen both I think Hanson is better, but Chen was quite promising. Much more so than a long string of hyped darlin’s in the years since who haven’t lived up to their press clippings. When they’re starting out you can only go on projection. Chen failed to develop that third pitch well enough. Even as a disappointment he had a career ERA+ of 95 which is close to average and a 2/1 K/BB rate. I’m no longer a scout, so sorry but you can’t replace me in that position. LOL
By Random
December 23, 2008 5:38 AM | Link to this
Lew: “What would a complete @$$ know about sarcasm?”
Don’t be so hard on yourself, big’un — it’s the thought that counts. Especially this time’a year.
By j
December 23, 2008 6:27 AM | Link to this
Dave,
First off, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to everyone here.
Dave, I must say that I am in agreement with 97% of your best of CD’s. The one that has been kinda disappointing to me, is The Kings of Leon: Only by the Night. “Closer” might be my favorite song they have ever recorded. Think it is a sick track. The rest, however, feels like a letdown. Given the dichotomy between KOL’s popularity in Europe and here, I suppose I can understand raising the number of lighter flickers. If you will.
The Fleet Foxes record is truly beautiful. The new Calexico is quite good. Connor Oberst’s LP is quite good. Surprisingly good live show with the Mystic Valley Band as well. TV on the Radio’s latest is awesome as well.
Braveswise, this has been a truly dreadful offseason on paper. Then again, lately, every time we are predicted to do well, we massively underperform. Perhaps a little of the ” everyone doubted us” might help greatly. Sure seems to have helped our other pro teams lately. Furcal and his Representation played the game it seems. Only, for so long, we were a destination. Not a way to drive up contract numbers. I still think your contention that the Peavy trade is not dead, is apt. I really think Wrenholtz will find a way to pull it off now. Save face if you will. Hopefully, sans Escobar. Cheers, J
By Richard in Goose Creek
December 23, 2008 7:35 AM | Link to this
Is Kent Willis still with the organization?
By O'brien
December 23, 2008 7:42 AM | Link to this
“Sounds like another bonehead move when you tell the Padres that you won’t include a player for Peavy, but you give him up for a non ace like Vasquez”.Cory, 6:45pm
Cory, DOB said the Padres were not that high on Flowers, and he was not the reason why the deal did not go through…
By Billy Walsh
December 23, 2008 7:58 AM | Link to this
N8,
I agree with you on Hanson. I think he has the potential to become an outstanding pitcher. Whether he has an impact next year…remains to be seen. I am always cautious with the hype some prospects do receive….Wilson Betemit, Andy Marte, Bruce Chen, Jose Cappellan, Matt Belisle, Macay McBridem, even Salty.
By Random
December 23, 2008 8:15 AM | Link to this
O’brien: “Cory, DOB said the Padres were not that high on Flowers, and he was not the reason why the deal did not go through…”
Yes; however, Tom Krasovic of the SD UNION-TRIBUNE has said differently.
“– As part of Jake Peavy trade talks in November, the Padres and Braves were far along on a 4-for-1 plan that included shortstop Yunel Escobar and center fielder prospect Gorkys Hernandez. The Padres wanted the Braves to include starting pitcher Charlie Morton instead of Jo-Jo Reyes and pushed hard for either pitching prospect Jeff Locke or catching prospect Tyler Flowers to be substituted for reliever Blaine Boyer. Talks regressed from there, and the Braves later traded Flowers to the White Sox.”
DOB has not (yet?) disputed Krasovic’s version on this blog.
By raymond
December 23, 2008 8:16 AM | Link to this
I keep reading that the Braves don’t want to sign an expensive left fielder who would be in the way of one of the young prospects coming up next year. I don’t agree with this approach. Adam Dunn has hit 40 home runs in each of the last 5 years, so he is proven run producer. He may hit 230 but he still produces runs (hrs and rbis). He is proven, can you give me assurance that one of these prospects are going to do the same thing when they come up. The biggest work in the Braves dictionary is IF. If Smoltz, can return to form, If Glavine can. Every year it’s same thing. The Braves will not remake this team like they did in the 90’s, they had a much better farm system then. Back then we did not expect anything, but after all the DIVISION titles we have come to expect more. It’s obvious to me they are now in the saving money mode, again, and are using excuses like waiting on prospects to do so. Spend it on Smoltz ( 1 yr), Garland, and Dunn so we can see some results now.
By richbrave
December 23, 2008 8:57 AM | Link to this
raymond:
We had a much better farm system in the ‘80’s because we had higher draft picks in it. Finishing seventh worst in MLB gets you a PROTECTED pick which means you get the pick no matter what FA’s you sign. Picking out of the top ten means you have to give up compensation for taking other teams’ FA’s. Consistantly picking in the top ten means you get higher quality players. That is if the scouting done is superior. TED TURNER went about building that arm of the organization in the late 70’s and early 80’s. After 10+ years it had some excellent players in it. I think personally the farm system is fine unlike FURMAN BISHER who has forgotten the salient facts of the matter.
By Shawn B
December 23, 2008 9:00 AM | Link to this
I for one am very happy the Braves did not give up Escobar, Gorkys, Morton, and Flowers or Locke for Peavy. That’s just too much for a starter who rarely pitches past the sixth inning in any game he is in.(What was that stat Gammons reported and one of our fellow bloggers found, something like 11 innings total past the sixth, or maybe it was the seventh, in the last three years combined?)
I will not be upset at all if we don’t trade away any more young talent this offseason and build from within again.
By Tron5000
December 23, 2008 9:02 AM | Link to this
DOB, that Kings of Leon CD is my album of the year. Not saying it’s the best album to come out in 2008, but it’s the one I can listen to over and over without it getting old.
No Zac Brown Band on the list? That’s been getting a lot of play from me the past month or so, and I can’t wait to see him at the Georgia Theater in January.
By Efrim
December 23, 2008 9:21 AM | Link to this
Been away from the blog for a couple of days. Before I forget, hope all the bloggers have a happy holiday and new year.
DOB- Thanks for the blog this year man. Happy holidays to you.
By DAP
December 23, 2008 9:21 AM | Link to this
cory all we have done was traded for Javier Vasquez and gave up a player (Tyler Flowers) who we said no to the Padres in the Peavy talks.
im not sure where you got that idea, but it never happened, as far as i know. i never heard that san diego was interested in flowers they wanted hanson. THATS the guy we wouldnt give them.
By Zach
December 23, 2008 9:23 AM | Link to this
Here’s the deal, Frank, you have to, and I mean HAVE TO sign John Smoltz. Now. Five minutes ago even. Just to let Braves fans take a deep breath and know things are going to improve. John’s a reasonable guy, give him some guaranteed money, but make the bulk of his salary contingent on a small number of innings so just in case he absolutely cannot pitch we don’t get totally screwed over. I think he’d be okay with that. Maybe even offer him a really good amount of money if he reaches 15 wins or 30 saves or something. But this has to be done. I know it would be ideal if we could wait to see how he’s throwing, but the truth is if the season started today, Smoltz in whatever condition he’s in would be at worst our number 3 guy. So if we definitely have a rotation spot for him, why wait? We’ve heard he’s throwing well off a mound and ahead of or at least on schedule. Smoltz should be the easiest sign in the world, just make him a reasonable, incentive-heavy offer. He’ll work with us, both sides are definitely on the same page. Make this lay-up, Frank, and it will relieve some of the pressure you and all of us are feeling about this off-season. But, Frank? Listen up, and listen good. If you lose John Smoltz, if you somehow allow the legend of our proud franchise go to another team to end his career, whether he is good or not, you are done. We will never trust you again. Fans will go into panic mode, and the franchise will take the biggest credibility hit in the history of the organization. That would be the biggest botch-job this side of Isaiah Thomas (I wanted to say Matt Millen… but you’ve been through enough). For all of us, just complete this one, simple task, and hopefully it will get the ball rolling. At the very least, it will put one in the “win” column for us as we are now 0-3 (Peavy, Burnett, Furcal).
By Random
December 23, 2008 9:35 AM | Link to this
Shawn B: “I for one am very happy the Braves did not give up Escobar, Gorkys, Morton, and Flowers or Locke for Peavy… . I will not be upset at all if we don’t trade away any more young talent this offseason and build from within again.”
You and me both. Braves should sign Smoltz, pick up 2 or 3 more FAs, cinch their girdles, gird their loins and sally forth to Spring Training and beyond!
By TommyP
December 23, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this
Frank: Paragraphs are your friend.
When does this become a Braves blog again?
By siskel
December 23, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this
The Braves best move would be to move Chipper and let Smoltz go. Both of those guys deserve better and Chipper could fetch a decent haul right now of good young pitching. I’m not convinced that we can beat the mets and phils next year or for the next 5 years if we don’t stop patching this team together and start rebuilding. It’s like having a leaky roof, you can only patch it so many times before you have to replace it. JJ and Hanson are nice pitchers to build a rotation around maybe Boston would be interested in CJ with Lowell being injured? NY needs a DH, Anaheim, Oakland seems to wanna compete next year so there are options out there. I would hate to see these guys go but they can’t stay forever, we need the next CJ and the next Smoltz or an owner with bottomless pockets. Massive changes need to be made to this roster we need more guys who play with energy and emotion and Bobby needs to just let the young guys play! Why was Norton playing in left so much last year and Infante when B. Jones was playing decent ball? We were out of it anyway so see what the kid can do. B. Jones, Schafer, and Francouer should be our OF for next year with Kotchman, Johnson, Escobar, and Infante (or a cheap FA vet) should be the IF with Mac catching a staff of JJ, Vasquez, Campillo/Reyes, Morton, and Hanson. Now that team would be pretty bad but at least they have a lot of room for improvement and we keep our money for next year when we may be better and get our guys some experience and add more young talent with the haul we get from a CJ trade. I would enjoy watching that team more than what I ended the season watching with CJ being hurt and Blanco in CF and Norton/Infante in LF. You would have basically the same results with a better upside. The FA pitchers that are left aren’t really better than our guys we have, Perez, Garland, Wolf all have ERA’s around 4.80, we can get that with our own guys who don’t cost nearly as much.
By Jim H.
December 23, 2008 9:47 AM | Link to this
Tron5000 - regarding The Zac Brown Band….If you you think the CDs are good, just wait till you see them in concert! As a resident of the Lake Oconee area (Zac’s home area), we’ve known about them for a few years down here. They were the house band at a bar/restaurant on the lake that Zac and his dad owned and my wife and I have seen them a few times. He even gave my step-son-in-law (who worked at the restaurant) a guitar. He’s a good dude and him and his band absolutely throw down live. You will enjoy it. The last time I saw them was in Duluth back in the summer. Awesome show. Their music straddles the lines of country/rock/folk/blugrass very nicely…very good stuff. Also, they just signed on with Atlantic records. You will be hearing much more from them, I’m sure.
But anyway to the Braves…..I say 1.) re-sign Smoltz for Gods sake! 2.) Sign one of the several avaliable free agent power hitting outfielders (Abreau, Burrell, etc.) to no more than a two year contract. After Tex finally signs the dominos should starting falling and the free agents should all start signing with teams. We need to get one of them before they are gone. 3.) use any leftover funds to extend the contracts of a couple of the players we need to keep (such as Mike Gonzolez). 4.) Fill out the rotation with the youngers 5.) Hope that Frenchy makes a comeback 6.) Hope that things come together and that is enough to get back in the thick of things (lot of hoping going on there, eh?)
I see no reason to trade prospects or waste a bunch of money on a mediocre free agent starting pitcher that probably isn’t going to be any better than the young guys we already have.
By JEB
December 23, 2008 9:47 AM | Link to this
DOB
Giving your opinion, What would be the Braves starting rotation and starting line-up IF we were to come out of Spring Training today? Just your thoughts.
Also, I used to think I had a WIDE range of taste in music. Being a lover of music and muscian for 40 years. But, you beat me out by a long shot!
Merry Christmas to you man!
By Jay Blaisdell
December 23, 2008 9:49 AM | Link to this
All this coulda-woulda-shoulda stuff on the Braves is tiresome and pointless. The Time Warner ownership with its little alligator arms when it comes to reaching for coin inhibits this club in a major way. It’s become an also-ran franchise and free agents realize it. Not Schuerholz’s fault, not Bobby’, not Chippah’s. Is just the way it is. Speculating that a guy might sign with the Bravos because he’s from a “neighboring” southern state or because he was once seen having dinner with a coach or player is laughable. They always follow the last nickle. Period. PS: A little bit of musical interlude goes a long way and is fun. A lot of it quickly reaches a point of diminishing returns. Long live Joey & The Worms and The Dead Kennedys.
By DAP
December 23, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this
zach But, Frank? Listen up, and listen good. If you lose John Smoltz, if you somehow allow the legend of our proud franchise go to another team to end his career, whether he is good or not, you are done. We will never trust you again. Fans will go into panic mode, and the franchise will take the biggest credibility hit in the history of the organization.
amen, zach. i second that.
By DAP
December 23, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this
have you guys been watching the nationals drove hard for mark teixeira? i think its awesome. i really hope that either the nationals or the orioles get him, and that he can help turn the team around a little bit. i guess i hope he goes tot he orioles more, since we wouldnt have to play him, but i tend to root for the underdogs, and id love to see the down and out nats or O’s land a big fish.
By flange1
December 23, 2008 10:23 AM | Link to this
DAP,
I agree the Tex deal is interesting.
I am amazed though at Tex CONSIDERING the Nats and the Orioles.
I remember one of his quotes when leaving Texas, something to the effect of ” I want to get paid, but money isn’t the most important thing, it is playing for a contender.”
Hard to see the O’s or the Nats as contenders even in 3 years!
By Shawn B
December 23, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this
Jay Blaisdale-Just a little FYI….Time Warner hasn’t owned the Braves for around two years now, Liberty Media owns them. Supposedly, they upped the operating budget for the Braves this year, which is a good thing, but just becasue you have money to spend doesn’t mean you should spend it on the first things you run across.
Spend wisely Mr. Wren, there is no guarentee you’ll have more to spend after this tidbit if you blow it.
By DAP
December 23, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this
mlb.com says that pettite being a yankee for one more year is “inevitable” the reason this is important to us is that is fills outs the yankee rotation, which makes it unlikely that they will try to sign derek lowe. with sabathia, burnett, wang, chamberlin and pettite, they dont have a reason to make an offer to lowe. that increases the braves chances of getting lowe, though slightly. (dont know if they are even interested)
By Lew
December 23, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this
Random-You’re right-T’is the season. Merry Christmas Dude and Happy New Year. May your BABIP never fluctuate.
StevefromOH-I’m jealous. I tried to get tickets to TSO in New Hampshire and they sold out both shows-early. Glad you enjoyed it.
Nathan-Got to agree with you on Bruce Chen and Hanson. Tommy Boy is the real thing, I do believe. Chen never was-on either Leo team he pitched for.
By Graham
December 23, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this
Jay Blaisdell
No disrespect intended, but the alligator arms now belong to Liberty Media, not Time-Warner. Gotta catch up a bit. Oddly enough, those arms grew some when Time-Warner sold the team to Liberty. It is certainly not a huge growth, but more so than what TW had given the Braves.
By DAP
December 23, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this
flange1 yeah, the O’s are a better team than the nats, but in that division, they are at least as far away as the nats are from contending. but, if on of those teams offers tex 10 years and an opt out, i bet he would take it. best of both worlds. he can opt out for another big payday if he isnt happy there, and he has security if he slumps.
By Anders
December 23, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this
DAP
The ironic thing about your 10:31 post is that that scenario also increases the Mets chances of getting Lowe which is more likely as he has stated he wants to go to a team with a realistic chance to win in the short run.
I actually think Minaya is waiting to see what happens to Lowe’s market and his fallback plan is Perez who appears to be over valuing himself.
If the Red Sox are serious about Lowe then I think that’s where he ends up. They have to resolve the Tex situation first.
By Random
December 23, 2008 11:01 AM | Link to this
DAP — see above.
Lew — Greetings of the season to you, as well.
Jay Blaisdell — Check it out, dude — it’s awesome!!!
By KC
December 23, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this
flange1: They all say that, whether it’s true or not. Tex is full of $$$hit. Chipper pretty much came right out and said he’s a highest-bidder type of guy. A Boras lover.
By Efrim
December 23, 2008 11:06 AM | Link to this
I think once Tex signs, things will become more clear throughout baseball. It sounds like he is looking to finish a deal before Christmas. If Tex signs with the Nats, then the Red Sox become the front runners for Lowe in my mind. They’ll have a good bit of money to spend and I think Lowe would take a little less money to go there.
Once Tex signs, Manny will sign, which will also create some clarity in the left field market- key for the Braves. I’m not sure the Braves want to go that route yet, but I think they’ll eventually come around if the demands for players like Rick Ankiel and Jermaine Dye stay high.
By Lee in S GA
December 23, 2008 11:06 AM | Link to this
When all is said and done I would not be surprised if the Red Sox end up with both Lowe and Tex. The off-season has been pretty quiet from them so far but no way they let the Yankees jump too far ahead with FA signings.
By flange1
December 23, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this
Anders,
While I hate to admit it, I think things are falling the Mets way.
I see Tex signing with the Sox. He could take an offer from the Nats or the O’s but I think he wants playoffs NOW.
If the Sox get Tex, they will not sign Lowe.
The Dodgers are not in on Lowe at all.
Maybe the Angels will get interested.
Then who is left bidding on Lowe?
If the Braves don’t step in (and if they offer the same as the Mets, Lowe will be a Met).
It looks like things are flowing perfectly for the Mets this off season.
I like their bullpen.
If they can dump Castillo and improve at 2B they will be hard to beat and the favorites in the East.
Damn that hurts my feelings to say!!!!
By ernesto
December 23, 2008 11:14 AM | Link to this
Tex hasn’t been a difference maker on any team he’s ever played on. The Braves record with him actually got a little worse. The Halos stayed about the same. And the Rangers never did much during his time there.
Not saying he isn’t a nice player and doesn’t put up good numbers.
But is he worth breaking the bank over?
Wait, the banks are already all broken…bad metaphor.
By rammerjammer
December 23, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this
There is a risk inherent with each of our starting pitchers, be it Jurrjens’ sophomore jinx, Campillo’s return to Earth, Vazquez’ continued history of unmet expectations, Smoltz and Glavine surgery recoveries, Hanson’s giant leap to MLB or Reyes and Morton fulfilling their potential.
I don’t see where Sheets is any more of a risk than those I mentioned, but there’s a greater risk in doing nothing and hoping for the best. That was our 2008 strategy.
Here’s more perspective…in the last five years, A.J. Burnett has thrown 852 innings. Ben Sheets has thrown 839 innings. A difference of 13 IP spread over five years…obviously, not a significant difference.
Yet we were falling over ourselves to lock up AJ for five years.
I can only guess that the specific injury that sidelined Sheets in September is the kind that is either a) difficult to get over or b) a precursor of greater trouble down the road.
Otherwise, Sheets - two years younger than A.J., his equal in durability and his superior on the mound - is a calculated risk worth taking.
By Anders
December 23, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this
I think the Red Sox need and want Tex more than they’re letting on. They won’t admit it but losing Manny makes them a whole different team. Ortiz can be pitched around. Plus I think he’ll start to show Mo Vaughn type body breakdown tendencies. Tex is a perfect fit for them now and in the long run. They can move Youk to left or trade Mike Lowe and put Youk on third.
Look for an 8 year $180 mil type deal from the Sox. Maybe $185.
I know Boras always goes where the money is but I will be shocked if Tex signs with the Nats unless they give him a stupid A-Rod type deal which I can’t see them doing.
By Lew
December 23, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this
Anders-I don’t know Dude-With Wilpon’s estimated $300-500 million loss in the Wall Street Ponzi scheme and the very real possibility that after giving Citibank umpteen billions, the Feds might come back and complain mightily about them spending $20 mil per on naming rights to the stadium, I’m thinking the Mets won’t be spending many more millions. I’ll bet you they low ball it on all additional acquisitions.
IMO that Mets’ fans will be happy they got Rodriguez and Putz when they did. Oliver may be out of y’all’s budget now.
Just so you don’t think this is a rip on the Mets, I doubt the Braves will contend this year unless all goes as well as it went bad last year and I think the Mets will. I think the Mets may have some serious financial issues coming.
By Efrim
December 23, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this
Question for the blog: Does anyone know when a player’s clock starts on free agency? For example, Francoeur’s contract was purchased in August of 2005, but his first arb. year starts in 2009, after three full seasons in the bigs(2006-2008). If you purchase it after June, does that qualify? Is it the number of at bats or innings pitched? Just wanted to know the rule.
I’m asking because of Schafer and Hanson. I’ve seen the Red Sox and Rays try to control their players by bringing them up mid season and keeping them with the club for as long as possible before they hit free agency. I read a quote where Manny Delcarmen actually showed his displeasure. I remember hearing that from Delmon Young too. Not saying the Braves should do this(although I think Hanson and Schafer could use time at Triple A anyway, regardless of their performance in spring).
By flange1
December 23, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this
KC,
Can’t argue with you there!
But I do think Tex will go to the Sox. He would be a perfect long term fit there.
Maybe the Sox can afford both Lowe and Tex.
Maybe the Phillies or Yankees will get into the Lowe thing.
I still think he winds up a Met.
By DAP
December 23, 2008 11:27 AM | Link to this
anders ironic? i dont think thats the word, but i know what you mean. i believe if tex signs with boston, they drop out of the lowe hunt as well, and then is is mets vs. braves? obviously, the mets are a better team right now, but since im a braves homer, they still suck really bad, and nobody wants to play for them.
seriously though, it doesnt seem like the mets are throwing around big money this offseason. they need to decide on oliver perez, and are they going to try and get one of the free agent left fielders? anyways, the mets at this point have the same needs to address as the braves, and i dont think they would (they could) necessarily outbid the braves for any of the available pieces.
p.s. are they set with tatis as their LF or are they still going to try and upgrade?
By Efrim
December 23, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this
Flange1
If they can dump Castillo and improve at 2B they will be hard to beat and the favorites in the East.
To be honest, I see a scenario where they trade Castillo and sign Orlando Hudson. Haven’t heard Hudson’s name anywhere this offseason. I think the Mets are fine with a platoon of Tatis/Murphy in LF and Church in RF. Replacing Castillo for Hudson would be big for them.
And yes, I do agree with you regarding Lowe. If the Red Sox sign Tex, they immediately become the front runner. Santana, Lowe, Maine, Pelfrey, Niese/Redding would be a very good rotation.
By Anders
December 23, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this
Flange 1
I think the Mets are stuck with Castillo for at least this year. Minaya is really talking him up locally that he’s in better shape etc.. We’ll see.
I still say the Phillies are the favorites until they are knocked off. They’ve earned it.
By Lew
December 23, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this
Efrim-Frenchy will be a Free Agent after the 2011 season. This is his first arbitration eligible season-if I’m not mistaken. I don’t think the first partial season started the clock running.
By Lew
December 23, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this
Efrim-I believe it also has to do with placing them on the 40 Man Roster, too. That’s why some players are not called up in September.
By flange1
December 23, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this
Anders,
Buster Olney says in his blog today the Mets are still trying to move Castillo.
I think it might be hard to do, but I think it can be done.
And I agree with Efrim, O Hudson talk this off season has been non-exisitant.
I think Omar will grab him for a steal.
We will see.
By Efrim
December 23, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this
Anders
I still say the Phillies are the favorites until they are knocked off. They’ve earned it.
Gotta let the offseason play out. Phillies have gotten worse in my mind. Resigning a 46(?) year old Jamie Moyer to a two year contract didn’t make sense and replacing Pat Burrell with Raul Ibanez is an offensive downgrade. Not to mention the bullpen. Do you really expect Lidge to be perfect again? I sure don’t. I expect some regression from their pen. They’ll be a very good team, again. But if the Mets add Lowe and Orlando Hudson(pure speculation), then I could care less about collapses…..
By Anders
December 23, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this
DAP
seriously though, it doesnt seem like the mets are throwing around big money this offseason
Because they haven’t had to, yet. The closer prices dropped faster than a barrel of oil. Minaya is holding his cards. The whole FA market is waiting on Tex, then it will be Manny and Lowe followed by most of the others. The Mets are waiting on Lowe and the others. No sense over paying to get them earlier when you don’t have to.
I get the feeling they’re going with Tatis and Murphy. I’d rather see them get a righty hitting left fielder (Burrell?), move Murphy to first and trade Delgado to the loser of the Tex sweepstakes for a solid starter or more bullpen help. They would have to have the confidence that Wright is going to be a number 4 type bopper for this to make sense. I’m not sure on that yet.
By Anders
December 23, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this
Efrim
I’m going to see the Rangers vs. Caps tonight at the Garden. Nothing like seeing Ovechkin in person. Best combination of speed, power and great hands I’ve ever seen.
I watched your boys on VS. last night. Crosby’s OT goal looked good to me. That Malkin is something too.
I assume you’ll be watching the outdoor game at Wrigley on New Years day? That should be great.
By Efrim
December 23, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this
Lew
Frenchy will be a Free Agent after the 2011 season. This is his first arbitration eligible season-if I’m not mistaken. I don’t think the first partial season started the clock running.
Yes. But, if they brought him up in May or June instead of August, would that of started the clock? That is what I am trying to figure out. What is the exact ruling on it? Is it innings pitched or at bats-like determining if they are eligible for Rookie of the year honors? Is it the date of when you bring the player up? I feel like I used to know the answer, but forgot.
By David O'Brien
December 23, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this
Another rare Christmas song I can listen to anytime: Felize Navidad, the version where Billie Joe Shaver joins Flaco Jimenez on Flaco’s timeless classic….
Tron5000, I don’t have the Zac Brown Band CD, hence it’s not on my list. But I heard it’s very good and that I should get it, so I probably will.
Again, I’d remind this is hardly a definitive list. Just a definitive list of CDs that I, personally, have picked up this year and that I believe to be the best of that group, in some semblance of an order of preference (a lot more sure of the order at the top than in the bottom half).
Just saw another one I had forgotten or believed to have come out in 2007, that actually came out in 2008 and was very good: Sheryl Crow’s “Detours.”
By Brooklyn Braves Brawler
December 23, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this
DOB,
How are you feeling about the new Common (Universal Mind Control), Q-Tip (Reinassance) and The Roots (Rising Down).
By Anders
December 23, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this
Nice segway at 11:58. Anybody else get startled?
By David O'Brien
December 23, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this
Lew, Efrim: The “clock” starts as soon as a guy is brought to the majors. If Francoeur had arrived earlier that season, to answer Efrim’s question, then yes, he might have had enough service time to become eligible for arbitration after the 2008 season. But he didn’t get up earlier enough (for arbitration, it’s three years of service, plus the “Super Two” players, the next 17 percent of players with the most service under three years.
For free agency, it’s six years on the major league roster or DL.
By Lee in S GA
December 23, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this
DOB -
Felize Navidad is a classic Christmas song. Nice break from those church hem types around this time of year.
Glad to see you mentioned Sheryl Crow’s CD also becasue you seem to know your music pretty well and I always think she’s underated with her talent.
By David O'Brien
December 23, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this
The Braves best move would be to move Chipper and let Smoltz go. Siskel
If the goal is to offend a huge percentage of Braves fans and have the smallest attendance possible, then yes, I agree with you.
By Efrim
December 23, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this
Anders
Yes, I’ll be watching that game. Hopefully the Pens will do what they have done the last two seasons and turn it on around Christmas. They haven’t looked very good, but I already expected some regression from last years squad with the loss of Hossa and Malone, and injuries to Gonchar and Whitney.
That’s great that your seeing Ovechkin tonight, guy is a force. I still like Crosby better though.
By Anders
December 23, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this
Lew
Sorry I missed your 11:23 until just now. That thought certainly crossed my mind. I don’t care who you are, losing that kind of money has to impact many things. They are claiming differently so that’s all I have to go on. I guess we’ll see.
The Sterling group that lost all that money with Madoff is a completely different business than the Mets baseball operations. The same is true regarding the naming rights. That group handles the stadium construction - which also is seperate from the Mets baseball operations. Granted they are all owned by Wilpon to some degree so he’s suffered huge net losses.
Jeff Wilpon has stated that it’s now more imperative that they march forward with their plans regarding the Mets baseball operations to help replenish what was lost.
By Efrim
December 23, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this
DOB
Thank you. Is there an exact date for “earlier in the season”? Just asking because I remember the Rays keeping Delmon Young down in the minors until after June 1st(?), and him showing his displeasure by bad mouthing the organization. At least I think that is what happened.
By Anders
December 23, 2008 12:20 PM | Link to this
If the goal is to offend a huge percentage of Braves fans and have the smallest attendance possible, then yes, I agree with you
This is the Ander’s Mission Statement.
By Salty Dawg
December 23, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this
I still say the Phillies are the favorites until they are knocked off. They’ve earned it.
Yeah, I’m sure Rollins will make the announcement soon enough.
By Billy Walsh
December 23, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this
If Smoltz is healthy and is ready to pitch again, I’m sure Wren will make him a very good offer? What that number is, is anyone’s guess. If Tex wants to be on a contender..then he will sign with the Sox. Why even consider the Nats? It will be Texas all over again. I would like to see the Braves sign Orlando Hudson and move Kelly to left. Hudson was having a tremendous season before he went down with a season ending injury. I believe he grew up in South Carolina too. I cant see anyone taking Luis Castillo. The mets would have to eat most of that contract. Sheets sounds very compelling if hes healthy. Do you roll the dice? 3 years 36 million? More? Less?
By §
December 23, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this
Any Chance Chipper would be up to playing LF and they can sign Ty Wig? or just Sign Wiggy and he can play LF and be Chippers Reaplacement next year or even this year if he gets injured.
By Lew
December 23, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this
DOB-Thanks-That’s pretty much what I thought. Didn’t know they counted DL time, though.
Anders-Yes, I imagine they’ll fill holes but maybe by say signing Pedro instead of Lowe or Oliver? I really don’t know, but like you said, that’s a tough hit to take for anyone. Of course, knowing the Government, they’ll robably do a multiple billion dollar Bail Out of Billionaires. Wouldn’t surprise me at all.
Have also heard reports that Wilpon is talking big, but will have to modify his Mets’ plans. Time will tell. Wouldn’t it be ironic if the Braves and Yankees were the only ones with $$$$$ left to spend?
By Randy S
December 23, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this
For those of you looking for a little something different to listen to during this Christmas season, Bela Fleck and the Flecktones just put out a Christmas CD, Jingle All the Way, that is fantastic. Listened to it while trimming the tree this week and even the skeptical elder folks enjoyed those 4 fantastic musicians playing around with Jingle Bells, some Nutcracker and even some Charlie Brown Christmas stuff. It was all a welcome relief from the incessant Manheim synthesizer barrage that is late December.
By Daybed Wagmoe
December 23, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this
DOB — if you haven’t heard it, pick up the Beach House cd “Devotion.” It was released back in February and highly worth buying.
By DAP
December 23, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this
anders seriously though, it doesnt seem like the mets are throwing around big money this offseason
Because they haven’t had to, yet.
haha. no, thats not it. the mets need at least one starting pitcher. they also need (needed) a LF. they have had opportunities to make a big splash and improve thier team, if they had plenty of money to throw around.
i think that they are having to be frugal (which i commend minaya for sticking to) because of the big contracts of beltran, santana, castillo, wagner, and new the k-rod contract. this makes them unwilling to sign perez or lowe, from what ive read. (of course nobody wants to with their huge asking price)
but the “they havent had to” excuse doesnt fly. they are being careful, which means they might be in a position to outbid the braves for anyone.
By Random
December 23, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this
Here’s a bit on Matt Diaz and BABIP from FIRE JOE MORGAN (R.I.P.):
+It’s been pointed out to me by reader Eric that Matt Diaz, amazingly, has posted the following BABIPs over the past four years:
2004 Durham (584 PA) - .378
2005 Omaha (278 PA) - .418
2006 Atlanta (322 PA) - .373
2007 Atlanta (329 PA) - .392
Eric also says “You mentioned in your post blasting Jon Heyman that Matt Diaz is an ‘obvious BABIP, small sample size wonder.’ I couldn’t disagree more” and “I fail to see how this year is flukey or a product of small sample size.”
Thank you, Eric, for your input. I did a little digging to see if there’s any precedent for this type of consistently outrageously high BABIP. Hitters, I think, have been known to control BABIP a bit better than pitchers. This is extremely unscientific, but I quickly checked some good hitters’ career BABIPs. Here’s what I found:
Alex Rodriguez .326
David Ortiz .310
Albert Pujols .318
Gary Sheffield .292
Again, completely random. Not serious analysis. But Diaz is at .392 this year, and of course that’s not sustainable. It’s just not. Is Diaz a good hitter? He is, although as Eric pointed out to me he hasn’t gotten enough of a chance to prove this at a major league level.
But his numbers are a little inflated this year by that .392.
++One more edit. Once again, I’ve been rescued by a reader who knows much more than I do about everything. Michael?
Junior,
Rather than comparing Diaz to Arod or Sheffield, you might want to note that the standard formula for BABIP is line drive rate plus .120. Since Diaz’s line drive rate this season is 21.2%, his expected BABIP is .332, 60 points below where he is now. Furthermore, the two stats that might inflate a player’s BABIP (groundball rate and infield hit rate) do not predict a bump in BABIP for Diaz. Unless there is something unique to Diaz that has not affected any other major league baseball player in history, you are correct about Diaz’s BABIP due to regress to the mean and reader Eric is wrong.
Michael
Thank you sir. I would add that reader Eric is right that Diaz could definitely be an actual decent major league hitter. His BABIP could regress and his numbers would still be respectable, since right now they’re sensational. —Junior, Thursday, September 06, 2007
By Glen W
December 23, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this
I know that there has been some debate here about the degree to which Prado should be in the Braves plans. Clearly, there effort to sign Furcal indicates that they do not see Prado in the starting lineup. I love Prado and did some research to support my view that he should be in their plans.
Prado is a middle infielder who has gone 307/363/432 (avg/ob/slg) in his first 329 major league at bats. Folks, that is good. I should add that Prado went 320/377/461 last year.
Let’s compare: Jeff Kent’s first full season (age 25, Prado’s age)270/320/446 Michael Young’s first full season (age 25) 262/308/382 Robby Thompson’s first full season (age 24) 271/328/370 Ryne Sanberg’s first full season (age 22) 271/312/372
You can clearly see Sandberg’s elite ability given that he produced those numbers at age 22. But is there any reason to think that Prado could not develop into at least a Michael Young type of player? Especially when considering that Young struck out 112 times in his first full season (Prado has struck out 42 times in those 329 at bats)?
Michael Young make $16M dollars per year and has made 5 all star teams… never mind that the Rangers are desperately trying to trade him right now.
Someone please tell me why Prado is not in their plans?
By Anders
December 23, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this
DAP
but the “they havent had to” excuse doesnt fly. they are being careful, which means they might be in a position to outbid the braves for anyone.
I think you missed my point. The fact that you left off the yet tells me that. Who has signed that the Mets wanted and missed out on? They resolved their first two stated goals within 36 hours and at bargain prices. K-Rod is cheaper than Wagner was 4 years ago and they got Putz for spare parts. Home runs for Minaya.
They aren’t in the Tex thing but have to wait it out because the rest of the FA market is waiting for the bar to be set - that’s how it works. Are they being frugal? I guess, who wouldn’t? Will they call it an off season? Very, very doubtful. They will get another starter. That could range anywhere from Lowe to Randy Wolf, but they will get one. Other than that, they could go in a few directions - we’ll see.
By O’brien
December 23, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this
DOB Given that the Braves were considering Furcal at second, and moving KJ to left field, have they given any thought to signing another second baseman (I don’t know who is available) and then move KJ to left?
By Glen W
December 23, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this
Should have added that Kelly Johnson went 241/334/397 in his first season (291 at bats, age 23)Marin Prado played at age 24 last year.
By ernesto
December 23, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this
Diaz got off to a poor start last year, but he might still be a decent left fielder.
If Schaefer can’t win the CF job in spring training, CF worries me more than LF. I don’t think Blanco’s going to be more than a 4th outfielder in the bigs.
Our big outfield bat, if we ever get one, might end up taking over RF instead of LF.
By David O'Brien
December 23, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this
Tex ends up with the Red Sox. Angels are only other option. Boston’s best place for him, because he doesn’t have to put that team on his shoulders, and his slow start in April/May won’t be a big problem in that loaded lineup….
Isbell and the 400 Unit are playing The EARL in Atlanta on Feb. 18, for those interested…. Also at the EARL, one of the funniest guys doing standup today, Patton Oswalt, on Feb. 7.
BLOGMEISTER ADDENDUM: I changed dates on these shows, had originally put January by mistake. Also, nevermind what I said about Teixeira. Well, except for the part about his slow April/May starts. While that still applies with Yankees, you can bet he’ll be booed there if he struggles mightily out of the gate.)
By David O'Brien
December 23, 2008 1:02 PM | Link to this
Oh, and I know where we’d be Thursday night if we weren’t going to be in Colorado. We’d be at the EARL to see Gentleman Jesse for a mere five bucks. Five bucks. You can’t see a movie for that anymore. You can barely rent a movie for that.
By Stephen Weinstein
December 23, 2008 1:06 PM | Link to this
Dave O’ Brien,
Manny Ramirez. Clubhouse problems, but, only looking for a three year deal? The Braves should go into this season looking to rebuild with an ominously high (for other clubs) high precipitation percentage for a championship. The Braves have at least offered 60 million to Burnett, if not 80. Manny is expecting a three year deal from the Yanks for less. Why not at least try to get them to up their offer? The Braves could win with a rotation of Vazquez, Jurrigens, Glavine, Morton and Hanson with Smoltz serving into the Bullpen to make a monstrous end game scenario with Soriano, Moylan and Gonzo. You move Smoltz back into the rotation around the all-star break after he builds his arm strength or another starter gets hurt (giving you an ace for the post season). Manny is a HOF, Burnett and perhaps not even Peavy will be HOF’s. I know the Braves don’t want to block their young guns and perhaps Manny will derail the Braves title hopes. If Manny pulls something with Cox I would surprised, but, you don’t think there would be some contending team willing to give up prospects mid-season for Manny to make a title run? Worked for the Dodgers. If the Braves feel Heyward is blocked by Manny they can always trade him, they would just have to decide mid-season to do so and plan to put in Heyward for the next year, the Braves would have to have a plan plus they get to control Heyward for logner. When I hear that Manny wants a three deal for less then 20 mil a year, how can you not give it to him if you NEED to take a risk like the Braves. Defense? Diaz is not a gold glover and Manny’s offense has always made up for any defense issues he has. I have been a Braves lifer living in the Philly area, you need to just get to playoffs and let your pitchers pitch the game of their lives. Its what Philly did, Eaton is not an Ace, but, he has a shot to pitch like one. Manny can get the Braves to the playoffs and they have a rotation full of pitchers who CAN pitch like an ace for a day. Also, like the phils, they have a bullpen, if healthy, that has significantly high percentage of pitching like a shutdown group.
Thanks, Merry Christmas.
-Stephen Weinstein Allentown, Pa
By Random
December 23, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this
A bit about Chipper Jones and BABIP from FanGraphs:
Is it better to be lucky or good? Annual injuries aside, Chipper Jones was both of these things in 2008 as he batted over .400 for the first two-and-a-half months of the season. How was he lucky? He was second in the majors with a .388 BABIP, which was 65 points higher than his career average. How was he good? His 17.0 percent BB% was the highest mark of his career since 1999 while his 13.9 percent K% was his lowest since 2000.
Ahh, but those injuries. Last year he missed time due to the following ailments: back spasms, quadriceps, eye, left hamstring, stomach virus, allergies, knee, back and shoulder. It was the fourth time in five years that Jones failed to reach 500 at-bats in a season.
by Brian Joura - December 2, 2008
By ernesto
December 23, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this
I hate to fire up the Carl Crawford/Ryan Freel/Rocco Baldelli trade machine, but you’ve got to think we should at least be thinking about Baldelli.
He might take a short-term contract to prove he’s healthy and can play. He plays all three OF positions (which is useful to us b/c we odn’t know where our greatest need will be).
He bats right handed, doesn’t strike out much, has decent speed.
As far as gambles go, I wouldn’t mind rolling the dice that Baldelli will be able to play regularly this year.
By ernesto
December 23, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this
We probably have to count on missing Chipper for somewhere between 30 - 40 games a year too, 5 years isn’t an anomaly.
So another quesiton for us is can we compete for a post season spot with Omar Infante as our 3B for 1/4 of the season?
By len
December 23, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this
Has anyone heard the dennis wilson cd-reissue the best of any year!
By Anders
December 23, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this
Steven Weinstein
Are you the guy who writes the users manuals for the electronics we buy? Your 1:06 post reads like the instructions to my new DVD player.
Held my interest about as long too.
By Free Agent Machine
December 23, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this
Teixiera to the Red Sox
Lowe to the Mets
Sheets to the Rangers
Manny to the Yankees
Fuentes to the Angels
Braves? Trading prospects to fill needs.
By Fan-coeur (Frenchy has heart)
December 23, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this
Wher McCarver at?
By Lew
December 23, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this
GlenW-Prado IS in the Braves’ plans-as a utility infielder who can hit pretty well (based on an extremely small sample size), but with little power and adequate defense. His value lies in the fact he can play multiple positions-NOT as a starting 2B.
Face it-the guy is a great substitute, but no one except for a few fans on the blog consider him to be any more than that. There is little to be gained by a comparison to Jeff Kent at this point of his career.
By JP
December 23, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this
Glen W, I have to agree with you on one point and I think most Braves fans would as well. We all like Prado and think he is a good hitter, but you are making comparisons with second basemen who could hit 20-25 homeruns any season. Prado will never be able to produce the homeruns, he doesn’t have that kind of power. Did you watch Kelly in his first year up? He hit the ball a lot better than his average said. He hit the ball hard everytime and you could see that he has the potential to be a special hitter. Hopefully we will be able to experience that this year.
This is another reason that I would say that we need to pick up Jermaine Dye. Because if Kelly can pick up 20 homeruns and Dye could add another 30-40, then we have taken our offense up a few notches. Needless to say, this will only make it easier for our pitchers to stay in the game longer and give us an opportunity to use our bullpen wisely rather than regularly. Still like Prado, but hope another team likes him enough to give us some help in other areas.
By Peavy Rules
December 23, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this
Stephen Weinstein
Granted Manny, unlike Tex, is a difference maker wherever he goes but as discussed on this blog before, he will never be a Brave. Too expensive for his age and too controversial for the Braves and would he even want to be a Brave these days if management wanted him. It’s apparent free agents aren’t exactly anxious to put on a Braves uniform these days.
Gimme a “P”, gimme an “E”, gimme an “A”, gimme a “V”, gimme a “Y” what does that spell …. “PEAVY”
By Original Jon
December 23, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this
Dave You can barely rent a movie for that.
Guess you dont have RedBox down in Atlanta, where you can rent movies for a dollar per night.
By Lew
December 23, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this
You can not petition Peavy by spelling his name correctly.
By Lew
December 23, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this
No Good Vibrations for the Blogger known as ?. Maybe Rhonda could help.
By Randy
December 23, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this
Dave,
Any chance the Braves hire Sharon Haithcock as a bench coach?
By flange1
December 23, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this
Lew,
I don’t think Rhonda can help because her daddy took her t-bird away.
By Lew
December 23, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this
Flange-Daddy couldn’t afford the gas anymore because he lost all his 401K in the Stock Market crash? By this time, wouldn’t she be a Little Old Lady from Pasadena?
Dude-I’m recording some more music for you-I’ll ship it after the Holidays.
By Fan-coeur (Frenchy has heart)
December 23, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this
Neon Deion…what kind of name is that, anyway?
By Lew
December 23, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this
Fan-coeur-He’s someone who’s apparently looking for Tim McCarver, like Diogenes looking for an honest man. Kind of like Waiting for Godot?
By Oasisbraves
December 23, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this
Funny you have Ryan Adams and the Cardinals on there…They opened for Oasis and boy…he might be ok…but we were ALL waiting for him to get off the stage so Oasis could grace us with their brillance.
Oasis should have at least gotten a listen by DOB. But there is still time for you to buy it :)
Happy Holidays!!
By Neion Deion
December 23, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this
Wher Frenchy at?
By Glen W
December 23, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this
Lew - I am not saying that Prado projects to have a Jeff Kent type of career. What I am saying, is that he has earned a chance to play. In this era we only seem to value a “prospect” if they project to either 20+ home runs or 20+ stolen bases. I think Prado has proven that he can hit and that he takes a sound approach at the plate consistently. I don’t think that is valued enough in the post-PED era.
I did some more research to see why Prado would not project to a Michael Young type of player… found this: In the minors, Michael Young never had a SLG pct below .428 at any level. Prado is clearly not in that category (after looking at it from this view). In the minors, Prado slugged .350, .422, .395, .360, .425, .368. I know that we have to take into account leagues, parks, etc. But clearly, Young was demonstrating power potential at each level, while Prado has not.
But perhaps we could compare Prado to a Placido Polanco, who in the minors never slugged higher than .378 (Prado compares above Polanco from this perspective).
Palonco is considered a pretty good 2B… has made the all star team and won a silver slugger. And he is respected for being a tough out, taking a consistently sound approach at the plate, and handling his position. But he did have to fight the “utility” label for 3 years or so before he got his first shot to play every day.
Note: Kelly Johnson slugged below .400 in only one season in the minors.
By Fan-coeur (Frenchy has heart)
December 23, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this
like Diogenes looking for an honest man. Kind of like Waiting for Godot?
Oh ok. That was funny!
By Thundersticks
December 23, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this
*By Peavy Rules
December 23, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this
Stephen Weinstein
Granted Manny, unlike Tex, is a difference maker wherever he goes but as discussed on this blog before, he will never be a Brave. Too expensive for his age and too controversial for the Braves…*
I have two words for you - Gary Sheffield. Same type player before and after he was a Brave, but no problems while he was a Brave.
SING MANNY!!!
By Jim H.
December 23, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this
Manny can sing?
By flange1
December 23, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this
Thundersticks,
I did not know that Manny could sing.
What type of music?? :)
By Frenchy
December 23, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this
You’re a real man deion.
By Thundersticks
December 23, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this
Sorry, folks. I noticed the misspelling right after I hit post. It should have been:
SIGN MANNY!!
By Braveheart
December 23, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this
http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=499934
“If Jake wanted to play in Atlanta, Jake would be in Atlanta,” third baseman Chipper Jones told Sporting News. “Jake’s in control, was in control of this whole thing, and there was a deal in place and Jake didn’t want to play here. So Jake’s not playing here. Jake wanted to play in Chicago, and they tried to make it work. Chicago couldn’t get rid of salary they needed to get rid of, and the deal fell through. It’s not to say it won’t get done later on, but I guess your job as general manager is to go out and get the best deal possible, and certainly a month ago when he (Towers) was fielding offers from four, five, six teams, the best offer on the table was ours.”
By Original Jon
December 23, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this
Its rumored that the Yankmes are on the verge of signing Tex. If they do sign him, does that put them out of the running for Derek Lowe???? I hope it does as I have a feeling that the Braves are going after him, just not making it know publicly.
By DAP
December 23, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this
thundersticks SING MANNY!!!
not on the same level as “your and idiot”, but pretty funny.
By Tony C.
December 23, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this
I would sign O. Perez just because he’s a Brave-KILLER.
Also, I think the light has gone on for the kid.
But still I think Wren is doing as nice a job as possible given that the braves ownership is not going to spend the required $$$ to keep up with the Northeastern teams (NYY, NYM, BoSox).
Things are shaping up to be like the 1960’s again: The Yankees buy all the best talent in the game, and a series of “contenders” will be the doormats they wipe their cleats on in 6 of the next 10 Octobers… unless The Curse of Pay-Rod stays in effect (which has a good chance of remaining powerful, although CC & Burnett are good looks to try and combat The Curse).
sigh
By Ryan H
December 23, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this
Tex to the yanks, 8/180, full no trade clause.
By ArkyTech
December 23, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this
ESPN reporting Tex to Yanks for 8 yrs, $170+
By flange1
December 23, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this
Buster Olney reports the Yankees signed Tex
8 years 170 million
By Thundersticks
December 23, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this
Tex just picked the Yankees. However, we’ll find out tomorrow that Boras just requested the term sheet, showed it to Theo, they matched the Yankees’ offer, and Tex will take it. When the Sox hold their press conference to announce the signing, Boras and Tex will both deny ever reaching a “verbal agreement” with Cashman and the Yankees.
By Lew
December 23, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this
GlenW-How has Prado earned a shot at fulltime play? Based on what? 329 ML AB where he’s hit a total of 3 HR? Based on MInor League Slg%?
Kelly Johnson hit 9 HR in his first 290 AB-more than 3 times what Prado has hit in 40 more AB.and all this on a team that is sorely lacking in power. Prado would have projected to what? Six? Kelly hit 16 more in his first full year at second base. Prado is a marginally better fielding 2B than Johnson. How does this indicate he should replace Kelly?
Dude-the Braves have made their decision. There is very little in Prado’s history to indicate he should be a full time 2b-especially when they already have another player that is a better power hitter with much more experience and only slightly less effective defensively.
Prado is nothing more than a utility infielder that may have more offensive potential than an average utility infielder. His value is in the fact he can fill in at second, first, third and the outfield (upon occasion). Comparing Minor League stats is an exercise in futility. Time to face facts-ML talent evaluators disagree with you.
By Salty Dawg
December 23, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this
mlbtr 2:26pm: Buster Olney says they’ve reached an agreement on an eight-year deal worth more than $170MM.
What could possibly be left on their shopping list?
By DAP
December 23, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this
the rangers are still trying to unload salary, according to ken rosenthal. vicente padilla on the block, and rosenthal says that the rangers would pay part of his $14mil salary for 2009, and maybe the buyout of his $12mil option in 2010. depending on what the rangers want, padilla could be a solid pickup. his stats arent great but he may be a victim of a hitters league and a hitters park. its only a one year commitment and if he does well, an option for two, so its low risk for the braves…its all about what they would have to trade the rangers.
By Steve from OH
December 23, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this
Lew—It was a really good show, I’d definitely see it again, no question. Try to see it in a big venue, so you can get the full lights/pyro/etc experience, because that was really cool. But yeah, they played for about 2 1/2 hours and it was loud the whole time, lol. More rock than soft hits Christmas music.
By JP
December 23, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this
Glen W, again, Prado is good and if we had enough power hitters at other positions, then power would not be as big of a consideration at second. We do not have any idea how many homeruns we will get out of center or right. That is why we need a proven power hitter in left and hope that Kelly will continue to move in the right direction. It is hard to say what Frenchy will do, we know that if Anderson or Blanco are in center what to expect, and it would be hard to expect more than 15 if Schaefer wins the job. Kotchman is not a 20 plus guy and with the down time that Chipper is projected to have, it will be hard for him to get to 30. The reason there has been so much emphasis on homeruns is because we finished 23rd last year. Without the lack of homeruns, 1 run games lost and the pitching injuries, we would have been in pretty good shape.
By Billy Walsh
December 23, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this
Things are shaping up like the 1980’s for the Yanks. Sign any free agent that you can get your hands on. It is amazing how the Yankees are abandoning the formula that netted them four world series rings in the 90’s. Gone are the gritty players like O’Neil, Brosius and Martinez who got the keys hits and made all the key plays when the game was on the line. They had chemisty. They are returning to their pervious philosophy which is going to come back and haunt them big time.
By flange1
December 23, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this
DAP,
Padilla’s stats are decent, but the guy is a head case that drinks too much.
I think the Rangers are trying to dump Millwood too. I know his velocity has dropped but I would rather have Millwood.
But are either of those guys better than Brad Penny or Braden Looper?
By JP
December 23, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this
Original Jon, the Yankees may pull out of the Lowe sweepstakes, but Lowe wants to go to Boston and the Red Sox have interest in him. That doesn’t mean that the Braves couldn’t try to sign him, it just means that considering his agent (Boras) and the big market Sox, he will probably get more than he is worth.
By TommyT
December 23, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this
Long time listener, first time caller. Is it just me or does Tex really seem like a soul-less mercinary.
By Lew
December 23, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this
GlenW-Don’t get me wrong Dude-I really like Prado-but as a utility guy. Now again-don’t get me wrong-I think not having utility players the caliber of Prado and Infante has kicked our behinds in the past (think Chris Woodward and Pete Orr). We really need competent subs like these two (Martin and Omar, that is) or Ty Wigginton. They are extremely valuable pieces for a successful team, but as subs. NOT as full time players.
Besides-with the Braves injury potential any given year, their swapping out at a variety of positions can lead to damn near full time numbers.
By flange1
December 23, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this
The Yankees have spent over 400 million dollars so far this off season.
Kind of hard to believe isn’t it?
They now have the 4 highest paid players in the ML on their roster.
Maybe they need Manny and Ben Sheets as well..
By Lew
December 23, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this
Flange-If Brad Penny can remain healthy and be obtained for a reasonable amount of money, he could be quite an effective pick up. Like I said-IF he can remain healthy.
By JP
December 23, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this
Salty Dawg, anything they want on that list is obtainable. They are in another class when it comes to shopping dollars. Would not even be surprised if they sign Manny. They can and it would make them the team to beat.
On another note, isn’t it just amazing how Tex had offers for 8 years and 184 mill but he signed for 8 and 170. Just says a lot about the integrity of the agents. No wonder the Angels pulled out and the Red Sox.
By Savannah Guy
December 23, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this
… and the very real possibility that after giving Citibank umpteen billions, the Feds might come back and complain mightily about them spending $20 mil per on naming rights to the stadium, I’m thinking the Mets won’t be spending many more millions.
With the way corrupt and self-serving political idiots in Washington are creating another Weimar Republic by socializing certain favored big banks, mortgage firms, auto manufacturers, insurance conglomerates and auto companies, maybe the Mets new stadium should be named Bailout Park.
Then again, with the way the Mets have played the last few years, Meltdown Park would be just as fitting.
Perhaps the stadium could be named Flushing Bowl, Taxpaying Chumps Park, Proletariat Park, Ponzi Park or Social Stadium.
Then again, you could just call it the David Wright Coliseum and be done with it. Then, according to everyone in New York, the entire civilized world could fully and graciously support the perfect new stadium.
By Nate
December 23, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this
I hate to bring this up again, but might the Yankees now entertain trade talks regarding Swisher?
By chris
December 23, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this
check this out people. yanks have 5 guys that are getting paid more than the entire braves payroll (jeter-20 mil) (a-rod-27 mil) (sabathia-23 mil) (teixeria- around 22.5 mil) (burnett-16.5 mil). That’s 109 million dollars for 5 players next season. yanks have spent 71 million dollars this offseason!!!! (which includes the recent signing of wang, and the 4 million a year for marte) wow, that is unbeleviable, not to mention that the payroll for the yanks will likely surpass 200 million.
By DAP
December 23, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this
flange1 DAP, Padilla’s stats are decent, but the guy is a head case that drinks too much. I think the Rangers are trying to dump Millwood too. I know his velocity has dropped but I would rather have Millwood.
i did not know that about padilla. millwood had just a terrible year. i dont know about him.
both are better than penny, since we dont even know if penny can pitch, but youve got a point about looper. he should at least be able to do what they can do. what a weird pitching market. there are tons of guys, and all of them are mediocre. the braves still need to get a few of them.
By Lew
December 23, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this
AJC is reporting an 8 year, $180 million deal with Tex. The rich get richer.
By David O'Brien
December 23, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this
TommyT: No, it’s not just you (3:46 p.m.)….
On another note … just doing some research, and it appears that the 1994 Houston Astros were the last team to have fewer homers from outfielders than the Braves’ 27 in 2008. Those Astros had 26, long before baseball’s ‘roids-and-small-parks offensive explosion…
By Bryan
December 23, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this
Teix to the Yanks, damn how much money are they gonna spend!?
By Dan
December 23, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this
Teixeira to Yankees.
The Yankees have now officially turned free agency into a total farce. So much for the concept that it was supposed to help small-market teams get better.
By Billy Walsh
December 23, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this
Tommy,
Your right, he is a mercenary. I wonder how the New York media is going to react to Tex’s slow starts. I could just hear Francessa now. A Tex signing would indicate that the Sox are going to sign Lowe. Not much we can do now. Sheets? Penny? Perez? All risks. Maybe Wren makes a bold trade? I still like an Orlando Hudson signing and moving Kelly to left.
By flange1
December 23, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this
Lew,
I agree on Penny. I have always liked him and would hope that having Penny and Smoltz together could help Penny a bit.
Even if he wants a 1 year “turnaround” deal, that is fine with me!
And I agree with you on Prado.
I know we just signed Norton, but I would sure love to have Wiggenton to back up at 1B, 2B, 3B and occasionally in LF.
By TURTSNAP
December 23, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this
So Tex is the latest millionaire with the Evil Empire. Me thinks I’ll stop watching baseball for a while, until baseball does something about the monopolization going on in their sport. This is absolutely absurd!!
By toddh
December 23, 2008 4:27 PM | Link to this
cc, aj & tex. i’m as free market as the next guy, but i really hate the yankees.
By Original Jon
December 23, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this
The Yankees have officially ruined baseball. They are the cancer on baseball. I thought for the sake of baseball, that when George Steinbrenner no longer ran them, that baseball would get back to being a fun game, but no, now his sons control the organization and it has seemingly gotten worse. Way to destroy baseball Steinbrenners, good job. Oh yeah, lets see how the Yankees fans will deal with Tex’ slow starts, and I will bet they will be even slower now with him playing in colder weather. It took him until 2 and a half months into the season for him to warm up for us, and he was the same way with the Rangers, and they were in warmer climates as well. Wait till he has to hit in freezing cold weather until about August.
By Tim McCarver
December 23, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this
You are a real man, Deion. A real man.
Lew, Enough with your facts and logic regarding Prado, your blog behavior is just outrageous. Only smarmy, emotional outbursts are condoned here on Fox, err the Man in Black Blog. If you do not behave yourself, I will have to request that eric f regurgitate his scintillating analysis about Prado.
Merry Christmas!
By Vol
December 23, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this
I am sending my resume to the Yankees immediately.
By Andy K.
December 23, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this
MLBTR says hte Yanks will try and trade Swisher, or Nady, etc, due to TEX signing. GET ON THE PHONE WREN!
By Nate
December 23, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this
Swisher, and Nady might both be available now. I hope Wren is paying attention to this.
By Larry M
December 23, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this
I may just die laughing when the Yankees fail to make the postseason again in 2009.
By ernesto
December 23, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this
The evil empire just gets a little more evil-er everyday.
So if they don’t win it all this year, what next? Buy the team that does?
By brent a.
December 23, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this
I still prefer them to the Red Sox.
By AdirondackDave
December 23, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this
Turtsnap — Yup, monopolization is the correct word for baseball these days and I hold Selig responsible for turning a sport into what it is today. The only saving grace in this situation is, hopefully, watching the 3 Steinbrenners’ heads explode simultaneously in September as the Yanks finish behind the Rays and Sox in the AL east.
By Roach
December 23, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this
Not Swisther Nady ok rather have Dye than both these guys but just not swisher
By Original Jon
December 23, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this
Swisher, and Nady might both be available now. I hope Wren is paying attention to this.
Yeah, cause Swisher and Nady are the answers to our outfield problems. Nady may be, but he is a Boras client, and Swisher, what has he really done that is any better than Kelly Johnson??
By Efrim
December 23, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this
Original Jon
They really haven’t ruined baseball. Their payroll for 2009 will be less than it was in 2008.
By ernesto
December 23, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this
I think the Yankees should go after Manny next, Hell, corner the whole free agent market this year.
Just call up Boras and go “Can we get a volume discount?”
By Joe M. (Resign Smoltz Already)
December 23, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this
At least the Yankees are signing people and giving people who buy tickets to see Yankees’ games something for their money. The Braves have over 35 million to spend and aren’t spending it. I don’t buy this BS that no one wants their money. Lowe would take it. Fuentes would take it. Burrell, Dunn and Manny Ramirez would take it.
By Salty Dawg
December 23, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this
The Yankees have officially ruined baseball. They are the cancer on baseball.
Not really. They haven’t won anything yet, aside from the award for most ridiculous payroll. Teixeira isn’t that huge of a signing unless you are drinking Bora$$’ kool-aid. What the Yankees have done is take on a huge amount of risk with a possibly huge payoff. What happens when one (or more) of these enormous signings get hurt or suffer a career down-turn? The Yanks are on the hook for virtually unmovable contracts. I do fear that this will start a proverbial arms race in the AL East, but as of now I don’t see anything other than the status quo for the Yankees. They have been stockpiling big names and big salaries for years. Where has it gotten them lately?
By Efrim
December 23, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this
Original Jon
To further my point, the Yankees are also getting another 40 million plus off the books next season when Nady, Damon, Matsui, and Pettitte(assuming they sign him to a one year 10 million dollar deal) leave via free agency…..
Matt Holliday anyone? Yup.
By Braveheart
December 23, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this
Oh, quit crying. The Yankees haven’t won sh!t in almost a decade now.
By Salty Dawg
December 23, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this
Swisher, and Nady might both be available now. I hope Wren is paying attention to this.
Why in the hell would he be interested in Swisher? Nady sure, Damon maybe, Swisher not a chance.
By Steve Deberg
December 23, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this
Why would we want Nick Swisher? He hit .219 last year. If we’re looking for someone to strikeouto and hit for low average, we already have one of those in our outfield.
By A-ville Ranger
December 23, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this
Look at the Skankees this way.If they don’t win the Worls Series every year, they’ll be considered under-achivers.
By BravesFanInRockies
December 23, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this
Salty Dawg (4:42)
What you said.
Last I checked, Yanks haven’t won a World Series since 2000, and none at all since adding A-Rod.
The Yanks can put up pinball-like stats, but until they win a championship, they have nothing more than an ungodly expensive, star-studded roster.
That is all.
By Fred
December 23, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this
DOB and bloggers, I just checked for tickets and Patton Oswalt is coming to ATL on February 7th. That’s too bad because I already have plans to be out of town that weekend. I’m a huge fan of the King of Queens and saw Kevin James at the tabernacle a few years ago (it was a great show, by the way).
By Salty Dawg
December 23, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this
check this out people. yanks have 5 guys that are getting paid more than the entire braves payroll (jeter-20 mil) (a-rod-27 mil) (sabathia-23 mil) (teixeria- around 22.5 mil) (burnett-16.5 mil). That’s 109 million dollars for 5 players next season. yanks have spent 71 million dollars this offseason!!!! (which includes the recent signing of wang, and the 4 million a year for marte) wow, that is unbeleviable, not to mention that the payroll for the yanks will likely surpass 200 million.
It’s pretty ridiculous, but it won’t stop until Selig does something about it. The Yankees are playing within the established rules of the game. Until they do something significant, like triple the luxury tax, the rich will continue to get richer. Let’s be honest, if the Yankees make it to the playoffs alone they will cover the $30M luxury tax they got hit with this year. As long as stocking their team with all-stars costs less than the additional revenue it brings in, they will continue to fish in the deep water ever year.
By Jim
December 23, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this
Stop suggesting Swisher. He was 43/220ABs for July-Oct. last year. Hit below .200 in May, July and Sept-Oct. Why would you even think we needed another non-performing bat in Bs outfield. Trade Francoeur +?? for Nady - much better upgrade. Younger than Dye. Only issue? Can he play RF, as Dye can. Maybe trade for both. Nothing in Francoeur’s history to suggest that he can one day become player that Nady is now.
By Efrim
December 23, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this
Xavier Nady is a career .280/.335/.458 hitter and is a free agent at the end of 2009. I’m sorry, but I don’t see how trading prospects for Nady would make much sense for the Braves. Better than a Diaz/Jones platoon? Probably, but again, not worth it if the demands are high.
By David O'Brien
December 23, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this
Original Jon, how have the Yankees ruined baseball when they last won a World Series in 2000 and haven’t even played in a World Series since losing to the Marlins in 2003?
I mean, they’ve spent far more money than anyone else in that span, three to five times (or more) what most teams have spent in the past five years. Yet the Yankees haven’t been to a World Series while spending more than a BILLION on payroll in that five-year stretch. So who really cares? Or rather, should we really care?
One could even argue that the Yankees are good for the game, being the high-profile example that spending doesn’t necessarily equate to winning, and also giving everyone a team to feel passionate about, whether you love or hate them. Sort of like the way the NBA is a better league when the Lakers and Celtics are front and center.
It’d be one thing if the Yankees were spending money and simply dominating the sport, but they haven’t even been the best team in their own division over the past five years. Meanwhile, year after year we have a team with a mid-sized or smaller payroll get to the World Series (Marlins, Cardinals, Rays…) and some win it.
Seven different teams have won World Series titles in the past eight years, and the Yankees aren’t one of them. Repeat, Yankees aren’t one of the seven who’ve won it in the past eight years.
By Efrim
December 23, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this
DOB
Weren’t the Braves interested in Swisher before the Yanks traded for him? I’m guessing the Yankees wouldn’t trade him in the same offseason.
By 18 Wheels of Love
December 23, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this
I agree…Xavier Nady for LF!
By David O'Brien
December 23, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this
Fred: sorry, meant to say Feb. 7, not Jan. 7. Same for Isbell, that’s in Feb. 18, not Jan. 18. Both shows at the EARL.
By Original Jon
December 23, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this
DOB I get what you are saying in that aspect, I meant as in spending so freely every single year that free agents almost expect to make tons of money. Free agents are licking their chops now if they are any good. They probably think, ‘Man, all i have to do is have a career year and the Yankees will way overpay on me’. No, of course they havent won anything in a long while, but that doesnt mean that they arent ruining baseball in terms of free agency and massive contracts given.
Maybe you all misunderstood me or I wasnt clear enough, sorry about that.
By JasonInFL (formerly ME)
December 23, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this
The deals that FW could have made upon leaving the GM meetings must not have been anything Earth shattering since he hasn’t made them. Man, I wonder what they are going to be able to pull out of their hat? I wouldn’t be surprised to see them go after Nady, but shoot; we can’t compete without an ace. We really, really need one. People who keep saying the Braves are out of the picture for Peavy because they traded Lillibridge don’t know what they are saying. We may be out of the picture, but it doesn’t have anything to do with Lil’Bridge!!
By Neon Deion
December 23, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this
Selig be a lackey for the owners.
Where McCarver at? I am waiting for Godot.
By AdirondackDave
December 23, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this
Nady could certainly be a useful pickup for LF but at what cost… B. Jones plus a lower level pitching prospect? Don’t know if that would be enough to get him. Nady must be getting close to free agency, 1-2 years maybe?
By Randy
December 23, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this
Dave,
What are the chances the Braves hire Sharon Haithcock to be a bench coach?
By Jim
December 23, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this
Efrim:
Adjustment to my 4:55 entry - as you note, XN is a FA after ‘09, and Yankees will be trying to dump his salary. So, probably don’t have to offer Francoeur. Just a minor league pitching prospect should do. Still don’t believe JF will ever have XN’s offensive #s.
By David O'Brien
December 23, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this
Jon, I hear you, but I’d point out that the Yankees can only give so many of those deals, a few this offseason. That’s not going to have much effect on what other free agents get with other teams, as we’re seeing daily.
By keylargo
December 23, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this
LEW AJC is reporting an 8 year, $180 million deal with Tex. The rich get richer.
Does that mean DOB is no longer the highest paid at AJC?
By Caneron
December 23, 2008 5:21 PM | Link to this
get Nady we wanted him last year, but the Bucs wanted too much now the Yanks may want to unload him get him
By SP
December 23, 2008 5:22 PM |