Braves

By NCBravesFan

January 23, 2009 12:22 PM | Link to this

I would love to see Sutton return, as he was a great guy in the booth in my opinion. After losing Skip last year and having Pete retire, I’m in need of a little comfort food for my ears.

As for Andruw? I hope he does well wherever he lands - but I haven’t seen or heard much that encourages me about his situation.

By flange1

January 23, 2009 12:26 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the new blog!

By ChopShop860

January 23, 2009 12:27 PM | Link to this

first?

By Va Brave

January 23, 2009 12:28 PM | Link to this

Dave - It sure would me nice to see the Braves back on TBS. Can you make this happen for us fans here in Virginia? In my opinion the Braves need that lead off hitter more than they need the power in the outfield.

By singndablues

January 23, 2009 12:30 PM | Link to this

If Heyward proves himself in the spring, any chance they would keep him on the opening day roster? Will he get enough PT to show his skills? How good does he have to be or is his age to big a factor?

By Greg

January 23, 2009 12:30 PM | Link to this

I must say, I hate reading about the prospects we gave up for Texeira in that deal. However, I am very excited about the ones still in our farm system! Hopefully Kotchman will have a strong year and make it a little less painful.

Mark McGwire is still one of the greatest homerun hitters in the history of the game. I hope he punches his brother Right In the Face!

By TennesseePaul

January 23, 2009 12:34 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the work DOB.

Hanson is indeed an interesting prospect to watch. I hope he turns out as well as the hype. The dark side of the reports are that he has poor control. I suppose that can be improved upon with time and experience though. I look forward to seeing him pitch.

By jmart1951

January 23, 2009 12:36 PM | Link to this

It is interesting to me that Chipper has given us two scouting reports: one on Andruw and one on Francouer. He says that Francouer is killing the ball after changing his stance but more importantly changing his approach to hitting. Francouer is now focused on driving the ball to the gaps. Andruw on the other hand gets kudos for getting back into shape but Chipper states Andruw still has a pull the ball mentality. He suggested that until Andruw was ready to change his approach he didn’t see much happening in terms of improved hitting.

Andruw, one would think, would sit up and take notice of what his friend and batting cage companion has said about his hitting. Andruw is running out of chances.

By Snowball's Chance

January 23, 2009 12:37 PM | Link to this

DOB I would welcome back Suttonand Andruw (with your reservations).Losing both Skip and Pete in the booth was too much. Sutton could provide some continuity to the past.

I came across this free full concert of Tom Waits from July 5,2008 in Atlanta. Go to the iTunes Store, click podcasts, then NPR Concerts from All Songs Considered .The Waits concert is about halfway down the page. Click subscribe and it will download to your music list. I tried copying the url but didn’t have any luck..This is the full non stop two hours and twenty five minutes. I’m still jealous that you have seen him live twice. What a performance.

By TommyP

January 23, 2009 12:38 PM | Link to this

DOB: The McGwire brothers haven’t spoken in years so there’s already been hate there. (as opposed to the Canseco brothers who took turns poking each other in the rear…….with syringes, of course)

Wow…if we land a legit LF and then the Andruw thing works out enough for him to win CF, what would that lineup look like????

Yunel Kelly Chipper Dye????? McCann Kotchman Franceour (vs. lefties bump him up a spot) Andruw????

Again, that’s provided we could deal for Dye and if Andruw WON the job.

By BamaBravesFan

January 23, 2009 12:38 PM | Link to this

DOB-

Thanks (regarding your answer on the other blog to “The Sield”) . I can’t wait to see what happens in the 3rd season, as I just finised the 2nd last night ( the 2nd is the one with the money train, wife and Vic separate, Almeda wins election for city council, etc) .

Also, since you have raved about it, I am going to watch “The Wire” as well. I really don’t know what I was doing missing all of these good shows. I was a huge Sopranos guy, and still watch Entourage, 24, LOST. Favorite show of all time, though, has got to be Seinfeld. Probably seen every episode hundreds of times. Love it.

GO BRAVES!

By noddy dred

January 23, 2009 12:39 PM | Link to this

COME BE APART OF THE BEST SUPERBOWL PARTY IN ATLEAST 11 YEARS WHEN THE 2 LIVE STEWS HOST THEIR 1ST ANNUAL STEWPERBOWL PARTY AT THE LUCKY LOUNGE. JOIN ME, THE STEWS, AND A SLEW OF CELEBRITIES FEB. 1, STEWPERBOWL SUNDAY. TELL’EM NODDY SENT YOU.

By TheManMike

January 23, 2009 12:40 PM | Link to this

Thanks DOB for another great blog. The music selection was excellent. I had never heard the song. I love the songs that tell a story, like Long Black Veil or Motorcycle Song….Good stuff.

By Lee in S GA

January 23, 2009 12:42 PM | Link to this

DOB You pretty much stated everything I had been hoping to hear. The Braves really want Sutton back, A.J. will not be counted too heavily even if he returns to the team, and the Braves will still be on the look-out for any offense that would be helpful to them w/o giving up too much in terms of talent or money. Sounds like a plan to me.

By Lew

January 23, 2009 12:44 PM | Link to this

I’ve felt for quite some time that the Progressive Insurance Commercial Lady, The Burger King, The Attudinal Comcast Turtle and maybe Kathy Lee Gifford should be banished from Human sight and put on a desert Island together. Maybe McGwire’s brother needs to join them.

Listening to a Kinks video-Come Dancing-been a while. Great seminal band.

By dmack

January 23, 2009 12:47 PM | Link to this

Is it me, or does the idea of Kelly moving to LF greatly diminish his value? At second, he is one of the better young offensive second basemen in the game. He projects as a mediocre offensive LF.

Plus, acquiring Brian Roberts would require at least one of our highly sought after prospects.

If you can sign a free agent, and Wren has stated that the Braves are not out of money, why not hold onto your prospects and sign Abreu or Dunn.

Unless Tom Glavine comes back, another hole in this team is the lack of left handed starting pitching.

Unless Wren is convinced that Jordan Schafer is ready, I really like the idea of bringing Andruw back.

Let Jordan season some more in Richmond, so that we can introduce the majority of these stud prospects to the major leagues at the same time. This gives us the best chance at winning while all of them are still under team control.

By Coastal

January 23, 2009 12:49 PM | Link to this

Again I ask, why aren’t the Braves even looking at Manny? He would provide so much protection for Chipper, McCann and Jeff. At this point, I don’t care about his below average defense or his locker room problems (both of which really never surfaced in LA). If not Manny, then please get Roberts. Stayed away from Andruw and Dunn.

Mark McGwire deserves everything he gets from his brother calling him out to his M&M sized testees.

By BDL

January 23, 2009 12:50 PM | Link to this

DOB, If Roberts is brought in and KJ moved to left, How does that effect the middle of the lineup? Would we see Chipper, McCann, Kotchman as our 3,4,5? We would basically have zero consistant power in our lineup (Chipper declining power, Andrew if brought in would be doubtful, Frenchy seems to not be the power hitter we were hoping). Has there been a lineup recently who has had offensive success with no proven power or RBI producers in the lineup?

By YankeeDawg

January 23, 2009 12:52 PM | Link to this

DOB, was the Texiera trade worth it?

By Aaron

January 23, 2009 12:53 PM | Link to this

DOB, Does Wren have any interest in Orlando Hudson?

By chrisj

January 23, 2009 12:54 PM | Link to this

DOB….whats your feeling on the Roberts trade possibility…seems to me like it would be a good fit and would likely result in KJ in the outfield. Also….any word on Hudson and how hes progressing? My son and i were fortunate enough to get paired up with him in Andruws charity golf tournament last year…great guy….kept us laughing the whole time….BTW, Smoltz was there also and was really a jerk to both my 11 yr old and myself….really shocked me, but was probably due to divorce situation, tried giving him the benefit of the doubt.

Music note….if you havent listened to Corey Smith…give it a try….good tunes

By mbatl

January 23, 2009 12:55 PM | Link to this

“At this point, I don’t care about his below average defense or his locker room problems (both of which really never surfaced in LA).”

Coastal, I guess you also don’t care about his $20+ mil pricetag either.

Hey, I agree… overlook his attitude, his defense, and his cost, and he’d be a great signing.

By The Artist Formerly Known as Too Hot For Teacher

January 23, 2009 12:57 PM | Link to this

hey DOB good to see another blog from you…thanks for the info on Andruw. Speaking of Joneses - when all the Smoltz shenanigans happened Chipper said something to Carrol Rogers I think it was about how Wren told him they would work on an extension this offseason. Is there any update to that and if the Braves are backtracking on this promise to Chipper how do think that will impact his future with the team? He seemed pretty steamed in that interview.

By Lew

January 23, 2009 12:58 PM | Link to this

dmack-If you bring them all up together, you end up sending thewm all to arbitration together and Free Agency at the same time. I’m not seeing it happen that way. Shafer, then Hanson (or both at start of 09), then Heyward, then Freeman. You stagger rising costs that way.

By dmack

January 23, 2009 12:58 PM | Link to this

Plus, signing Dunn does not cost the Braves a draft pick.

By Lew

January 23, 2009 12:59 PM | Link to this

Coastal-You seem somewhat concerned with the size of McGwire’s genitalia. Why?

By DAP

January 23, 2009 1:01 PM | Link to this

Again I ask, why aren’t the Braves even looking at Manny? Coastal

if youre still asking, its because you dont pay attention the the answers. to sum it up: its not gonna happen, ever.

By BrandonC

January 23, 2009 1:01 PM | Link to this

Spring Training is going to be FUN this year. I can’t wait to see what the young guys do against major league pitching. Heyward, Schafer and Freeman are all going to be impact players for this team some day. And I think Schafer will win a spot out of ST.

Hopefully Hanson continues what he did in Arizona. And I think we are all pretty confident that we’ll see him by mid-season. I saw a split screen of his curve ball delivery and his fastball and they are exactly the same. He’s going to be nasty.

And I hope Don Sutton gets out of his contract with Washington. It would be nice to hear a familiar voice on the radio again.

By Mitchell

January 23, 2009 1:06 PM | Link to this

16th baby! Number 16 right here.

What the hell is Dark Star? I keep seeing that but don’t have no idea.

Haven’t been keeping up with the blog but I’ll say this, I looked at the Braves schedule and if we don’t have a winning April, we might be in trouble.

We play a lot of teams in the first month you’d think we should beat but when it comes to bad teams we know how the Braves play.

The only truly important thing for ‘09 is to be in contention at the trading deadline becuase we don’t want to be out of it and have to be sellers again. If that’s the case we’re going to need a new 3rd baseman.

Problem A is the Braves have always been slow starters and B, we’ve been owned by the Nats, Pirates and Reds for two years now.

I think April will tell us a lot and even though I don’t think anybody’s going to run away with the East we don’t want to get left behind.

DOB, I still remember what you said not too long ago, I would gladly take a first round exit in the playoffs for another division title. Of course, when it got time for the playoff exit I wouldn’t be glad.

We’ll see how it goes.

By i cant take it anymore

January 23, 2009 1:07 PM | Link to this

coastal dude, are you serious about ANY of that junk that you just posted?

By AZ Brave

January 23, 2009 1:09 PM | Link to this

DOB - You ever get a chance to check out the other 2 Hayes Carll CDs? If not, you really need to. Good stuff!

By Fred

January 23, 2009 1:10 PM | Link to this

TommyP (from the last blog) Fred: Uh, maybe you haven’t noticed but the “disrespectful personal attacks” have been a staple on here for a long time. Just because these types of comments have been a staple doesn’t mean they have to continue. It’s just a matter of common courtesy and decency to respectfully agree or disagree with the blog’s discussions.

By Mac

January 23, 2009 1:12 PM | Link to this

As a former bookstore owner, I can tell you the mega-discounters have made sure that every new release is in the discount bin for Day 1. They sell them for less than my wholesale price.

By the Stranger

January 23, 2009 1:13 PM | Link to this

That’s a good start to a great list, Lew. I’d propose adding to that misfit island Stuart Scott, the Sham-Wow!!! guy, and, of course, any surviving members of the band Night Ranger.

By Mac

January 23, 2009 1:15 PM | Link to this

They’re starting to get confused in Chattanooga. On Sports Talk, 4-7 p.m. WGOW, they’ve been expecting the Braves to sign Adam Dunn as something that makes perfect common sense. The fact it hasn’t happened has the hosts bumfuzzled.

By Bob Horner

January 23, 2009 1:17 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Heard any leaks of the new Springsteen album? Thoughts?

By ncscoots

January 23, 2009 1:18 PM | Link to this

TommyP, I actually wasn’t trying to rebut anything in your last post. I just glommed on to the two-year difference and used it for my own evil purposes, LOL.

mbatl, you might be right, in that a lineup that has plus power at a bunch of spots might open the way for Schafer and Gorkys to play in the same OF. Heck, if the Braves had a banger at 1B right now, they might be more willing to suffer a little in LF, for that matter. The Braves have plus power at C and 2B (and Escobar may develop plus power at SS, too), so yeah, I could see some confluence of circumstance that could put ‘em both out there. Hadn’t really thought of it that way before.

Still, I think I’d prefer Francoeur developing into the player he wants to be, along with Schafer and Heyward, at some point. Three RF-caliber arms and kudzu coverage, that group, with 70-80 HR. That’s an OF you could come to like…

By mbatl

January 23, 2009 1:19 PM | Link to this

Suze Orman.

By rotty

January 23, 2009 1:20 PM | Link to this

Same comment from the old blog. I suspect Wren will sign Dunn or Abreu but if he doesn’t and gets too cocky re: his rotation he will regret it as much as how he handled the Smoltz situation.

Pitching and offense stunk for major stretches last year. One run loss records and late innings collapses.

He has addressed the pitching but he is being delusional if he thinks his pitching is so good they can pass on HR hitters like Dunn and Abreu.

Keep the prospects and sign a FA for 2 yrs. Seems like lay up and now is not the time to get cheap or think you are all that clever.

By Kentavo

January 23, 2009 1:22 PM | Link to this

I saw Hanson once when he was here in Myrtle Beach - an early April start last year - and he did not exhibit any control issues - and it was a drizzly, cold night. He was very crisp. I know it is A ball. But if you’re wild, you’re gonna be wild at every level. He just mowed ‘em down - while I had to go spend $60 on a Pelicans pull over because it was so friggin’ frigid. Now I wear it nearly everyday in honor of the Baby Braves.

By Bubdylan

January 23, 2009 1:24 PM | Link to this

uga-brave and BA, thanks for the late-night kudos. Kind of you to overlook the my many misfires.

By Lew

January 23, 2009 1:24 PM | Link to this

Stranger-At least three of them are still alive because they just put out a new CD with the Dude from Great White on keyboards. It’s OK.

As for the rest-The Shamwow Guy for sure.

By Gary

January 23, 2009 1:28 PM | Link to this

Lew, I agree with you on Ray McGwire and Kathy Lee Gifford, but come on man……the Comcast Turtle, Burger King, and for heavens sake the Progressive Lady??? They actually make commercials more enjoyable and easy to look at(Progressive Lady) than reality TV and anything ESPN. ::Smiles::

Seriously though what Ray McGwire is doing to his brother is lower than low, but I think that relationship has be sour to non existent for years now. I vaguely remember something being said after the 70 homer season in 98 about their relationship being rocky.

By dap01

January 23, 2009 1:28 PM | Link to this

I agree with the Mark McGuire issue. His brother is only out for the money. Steroids are terrible and should be eliminated but people act like they are the worst crime in the world. If someone is suspected of steroids they are banished from the entire world. They should be punished but in a more reflective manner. Baseball players even suspected of steroids are treated like a terrorist. There are other crimes much worst, (Ray Lewis, who left a couple of people dead in the street is treated like a hero.)

By Drew

January 23, 2009 1:32 PM | Link to this

Nice blog, DOB. But I believe it’s Jay McGwire, not Ray. He also goes by J.J. McGwire.

By FJR

January 23, 2009 1:32 PM | Link to this

DOB (or anybody else for that matter), are you on last.fm? interesting little web-site, here it is

Here’s my page

By Andre'

January 23, 2009 1:35 PM | Link to this

Mr. O’Brien,

Your Blog is great for keeping up with the latest Braves news and rumors. You mentioned a few weeks back that the Braves had discussed with Chipper that talks concerning an extension would be entertained during this off season. I read quotes from Chipper, regarding the handling of the John Smoltz situation by the Braves, that he may now be unsure how he figures into the Braves plan. Do you have any news on this situation, or a gut feeling how things may proceed?

By dmack

January 23, 2009 1:36 PM | Link to this

If Schafer and Hanson are going to be Braves this year, at least wait until June so that you delay their service time by a full year.

I’d be willing to be a lot of money that Hanson does not appear before June.

By GSUbraves_fan

January 23, 2009 1:38 PM | Link to this

I would love to see the Braves trade for Brian Roberts and allow KJ to move back to left, We could put Brian in the leadoff spot and from what i remember KJ had much more success hitting around the 6 hole. I think that could be a pretty good offense

1 Brian Roberts 2B 2 Yunel Escobar SS 3 Chipper Jones 3B 4 Brian Mccann C 5 Jeff Francoeur RF ( I think he’ll turn it around this year) 6 Kelly Johnson LF 7 Casey Kotchamn 1B 8 Gregor Blanco CF 9 Pitcher

By Oasisbraves

January 23, 2009 1:39 PM | Link to this

I agree with Costal. I don’t care about his price tag. Sign Manny and we will WIN the east. We lack a clutch hitter outside of Chipper. Manny would be that missing piece.

By Bubdylan

January 23, 2009 1:44 PM | Link to this

dap01, I think we run steroids users through the ringer because we are, as a culture in general, filled with contempt and all too ready to see somebody squirm. But we don’t stick it to people for murder, sex abuse, and other atrocities as easily as steroids, cuz hey, those former sins involve passions we’re all too familiar with in ourselves.

I’m taking the longest route possible to say, we hold steroid users in out-of-proportion contempt cuz we can convince ourselves we’re above it. Anyway that’s why I hold them in contempt. :)

By Supes

January 23, 2009 1:44 PM | Link to this

Keith Law on 680thefan yesterday said that “Jeff was the stop gap player until Heyward is ready and that Heyward’s upside is much higher than Jeff’s”. MUSIC to my ears, finally someone objectively looking at Jeff’s game! Don’t drink the Jeff kool-aid that he’ll have a “rebound monster year”.

Of course he can look good in a cage (when you know what’s coming!), so while I respect Chipper’s comments I’m going to have to see it to believe it.

Say no to any long term deal with Abbreu or Dunn. bring in Nady to play LF for 2008 and don’t give anything more than a back of the rotation starter (like a Charlie Morton or Jo Jo) and a B rated prospect.

By fordcobra

January 23, 2009 1:49 PM | Link to this

It’ kinda like have a girlfriend in High School many years ago and things start going poorly with your current significant other, you remember all the good things about your old flame but you forget the bad. How about the song Thank GOD for Unanswered Prayers. That is the way I see the Andruw thing.

By KyleH

January 23, 2009 1:50 PM | Link to this

I would love to see Sutton come back. I only wish he could be seen on TBS with the braves again since I am not local.

Andrew is a low risk move with a possibly high reward. Invite him to ST and see if he will let others teach him since his career is now on the line.

Adam Dunn: Don’t know what to think about Dunn. Good power, but the average and the defense do worry me some. Also the fact that he did used to hit in the Great American Small Park. Also hes another lefthanded batter. However the price tag will be low so a 2 year deal may be just what the braves need until Heyward is ready.

By Bubdylan

January 23, 2009 1:52 PM | Link to this

I just wrote:

“But we don’t stick it to people for murder, sex abuse, and other atrocities as easily as steroids, cuz hey, those former sins involve passions we’re all too familiar with in ourselves.”

If you read that in a way that sets of your creep-o-meter, read it the other way.

By NJBraves

January 23, 2009 1:52 PM | Link to this

DOB….is the Braves lack of interest in Manny based on his poor attitude or the large salary he will require. To me, he is the hitter that puts this team over the top. Manny protecting Chipper and hitting in front of McCann, would be lethal. Maybe they just can’t afford it, but he would put us back in the playoffs. Plus, a two or three year deal wouldn’t block any younger guys for very long.

By Gary

January 23, 2009 1:52 PM | Link to this

Supes, I heard that too, but again that is Keith Law’s projection and not necessarily what the Braves have in mind. If Heyward takes over in RF, Jeff could easily be moved to LF. It also depends on what happens in CF with Schafer and Hernandez and if the Braves keep both.

I believe Chippers scouting because just last spring he made a comment about Jeff in regards to his hitting approach. “Lose an Andruw, Gain an Andruw” was something to the effect of his quote and he was right. Jeff had a year like Andruw did, chasing bad pitches and stubbornly not adjusting as a hitter. If he says that Jeff has improved and changed his hitting approach, then I can’t wait to see him bounce back. Chipper is a smart hitter and studies the game and other players well. I have no doubt his observations are good.

By IlliniBrave

January 23, 2009 1:53 PM | Link to this

As sleazy as the McGwire brother’s actions are, to me they pale in comparison to the gutless, two-faced, charade that Mark McGwire has been carrying on for the past 10 years. The guy has no b*s - I’ve lost what little respect I ever had for him and his sidekick Sammy Sosa. I say, what goes around comes around. You cheat and lie and evade the truth and then… you get screwed by your own brother.

By ernesto

January 23, 2009 1:55 PM | Link to this

I like pandora better than last fm, but they’re both incredibly good.

If you have an iphone, you can play pandora through your home stereo…check out bands you’ve never heard of…just great.

By Seymour1948

January 23, 2009 1:56 PM | Link to this

DOB,

This might have been brought up already, but I haven’t seen it. I forget which is the outfielder, but do you think the Braves have an interest in either Yadel Marti or Yasser Gomez, the two defectors from Cuba? I wonder how much they will sign for or if they’re ready to be productive in MLB?

By kirkinga

January 23, 2009 1:57 PM | Link to this

I like the idea of trading for Roberts, but isn’t he an owner favorite?

It seems every offseason he’s mentioned to go somewhere and never does. The Cubs have been after him for awhile now.

I hope Andruw and Glavine both return, but I still would like to see Ohman resigned first.

By hydee

January 23, 2009 1:57 PM | Link to this

DOB Okay I’m not well versed in baseball, football is more my game, so I have a question: the non-roster invitees, are those just the minor leaguers, or is that going to be all that are invited? In other words, is there no chance at all my fav Julian Tavarez will be invited to compete for a spot? Thanks for the great blog!

By kirkinga

January 23, 2009 1:59 PM | Link to this

Don’t drink the Jeff kool-aid that he’ll have a “rebound monster year”.

And if he does rebound, don’t let the crow choke you.

By 'toga party

January 23, 2009 2:00 PM | Link to this

DOB, just wanted to chime in as another avid reader, and another marooned life long fan of the Braves. Living in NY, your blog is a vital lifeline of information and entertainment. Thanks for all your hard work keeping us up to date, and reminding us of some of the best songs ever written.

I’m really excited about the prospect of bringing Don Sutton back to the broadcasting team. I always like listening to him. I actually feel like I learned a lot about baseball from listening to Don over the years. He has a great way of explaining the inner workings of the game to those of us who didn’t play at the higher levels of baseball. Hopefully if he comes back, he’ll find his way to the TV booth sooner or later.

I’m optimistic for the season, and hope the front office can give us one or two more things to be excited about.

By Bubdylan

January 23, 2009 2:00 PM | Link to this

“Jeff could easily be moved to LF” Gary

Then he could play ball next to his comments.

By ernesto

January 23, 2009 2:13 PM | Link to this

From McGuire’s little bro, “”Mark is a man I think most would like to forgive because his reason wasn’t nefarious — it was for survival. My bringing the truth to surface about Mark is out of love. I want Mark to live in truth to see the light, to come to repentance so he can live in freedom — which is the only way to live.”

And, he should have added, “Of course, I wont’ be waiting long too cash any checks that might be coming my way…..but mostly it’s the brotherly love thing.”

By Billy Walsh

January 23, 2009 2:14 PM | Link to this

Mark McGwire is a coward. Didnt he learn from Pete Rose? Because of his denial he will never be put in the Hall of Fame. All he had to do was admit his guilt and say I’m sorry. I lost all respect for him. As far as Roberts, we need a power bat more than a lead off man. Moving Kelly to left would not solve the power problem. The only thing Kelly has shown is his inconsistencies. Before his hot streak towards the end of last season he was having a mediocre year at best. Having a catcher in the four hole is not a good option. Having Dunn between Chipper and McCann would transform that lineup immediately. With Prince Fielder just signing an extension that will pay him 18 million/2 years…how much could Dunn realistically ask for? Going into the 2009 season with the same outfield as last would be a huge mistake.

By Smack65

January 23, 2009 2:14 PM | Link to this

Off subject but with the Braves signing Lowe, the Dodgers get a 1st round supplemental and our second rounder right? I know our 1st round pick is protected due to our poor 2008 and draft position.

By McFann O –[zzz] (Braves Fann For Life)

January 23, 2009 2:16 PM | Link to this

Lew—

Definitely agree with you on the Burger King—VORP, I hate that thing. Very creepy…Kathy Lee? Holy sheesh! I don’t even watch that women. And that turtle got kinda old, as well…

The Progressive women? Come on! You don’t laugh every time she says, “I wrote that.” ; ) (Don’t jump on me: I think she’s kinda…funny…)

Hey, the ShamWow guy’s got a new one—Slap Chop! But ya know, we can’t do this all day.

By McFann O –[zzz] (Braves Fann For Life)

January 23, 2009 2:16 PM | Link to this

Meant to say, “Thanks for the new Blog, Chief!”

By FJR

January 23, 2009 2:20 PM | Link to this

Ernesto,

Yeah, I have an iPhone. I like Pandora better for music discovery purposes. I use last.fm more as a social networking thing, finding concerts, keeping tack of my play tendencies, etc.

By Coach (Skip and Pete will be missed)

January 23, 2009 2:24 PM | Link to this

Frank Wren has no sense of urgency……and pigs will fly. Hey, I have some oceanfront property in Arizona for sale.

The 2008 Braves offense ranked 15th in RBI, 23rd in HR’s and 27th in stolen bases. As of yet, not one damn thing has been done to improve this situation.

As for this newly minted pitching staff.

Derek Lowe is a very good two starter. Javier Vasquez is the proverbial red headed stepchild. Joe Torre and Ozzie Guillen would agree with me on that assessment. Kenshin Kawakami should do well but only time will as to how affective he will be. Glavine isn’t even under contract, hopefully he will be.

Jair Jurrjens is the Braves REAL ace. He made twenty-two starts in 2008 where he gave up three earned runs or less in what was essentially his rookie campaign. I seem to remember three young Braves products by the names of Smoltz, Glavine and Avery who did the same.

I’m not sold on the veteran starting pitching as of yet. Tommy Hanson would make the Yankees rotation. He won’t see MLB action until later on in the Braves season which is going to exemplify my point concerning the poor judgment of our front office.

Remember 1990-91-92? Our Braves had one starter over the age of 30. By 1993 they didn’t anybody over the age of 27 in the starting rotation. Apparently Cox has forgotten this factoid. So I have to admit, I am excited….

about the 2010 season. However, I’m dreading the upcoming 162 game grind.

P.S. The oldest starting pitcher for the 2009 Tampa Rays will be 27.

By FJR

January 23, 2009 2:27 PM | Link to this

smack,

Yeah, we have to give up a pick for Lowe, as he was offered arbitration and was a type A free agent. Our #7 pick is protected, so the Dodgers will get our #7 2nd round pick in addition to a supplemental sandwich pick between the two rounds.

By dogsbrekky

January 23, 2009 2:29 PM | Link to this

Someone mentioned their top 10 movies of all time

A few of mine are

The Great Escape Wall Street Fight Club American Beauty The Sting Cool Hand Luke Casablanca Animal House Big Life is Beautiful The Sting

The Interview, The Castle, Breaker Morant (sorry 3 Aussie movies there)

By woogidy

January 23, 2009 2:31 PM | Link to this

Brent A. In a continuatiion from the last blog, the $2 theater is called the Picture show in Marrietta on upper roswell rd.

By Kerfeld

January 23, 2009 2:32 PM | Link to this

Thank goodness they’re bringing back Sutton. He never should have been let go in the first place.

It’s a shame Skip and Pete got buried on radio when Joe ‘Weakest Link’ Simpson was coronated on the FoxSports broadcasts with Boog, who’s just dreadful.

But the biggest shame was completely getting rid of the best announcer of the four. Sutton was by far the most versatile and knowledgable.

I’m glad he’s coming back.

On another subject, are there any White Stripes fans on the board? Does any else agree that “Elephant” is far and away their best?

Or, rate Fox Bros. BBQ. Their chicken wings are tops in the city.

By Hillbilly

January 23, 2009 2:32 PM | Link to this

Lew,

Can you make room on that island for the guy on “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” all of the Sonic commercial folks, anyone associated with PETA, and most definitely the three dudes from the DirecTV Commercial that’s supposed to mimic an intervention.

“That’s the cable talking, Jim…That game isn’t even in HD.” Makes me want to run my head through the wall.

By dogsbrekky

January 23, 2009 2:34 PM | Link to this

Oops I missed a classic flcik in my top movies

“My Cousin Vinny”, pure joy

Coach I somehwat agree, baseball post 06/07 roids death era is a young GUYS game, intespersed with quality old guys

Of note - post steroids the real NATURAL TALENT, Chipper, Manny etc are rising to the top whilst certain teflon “synthetically enhanced dudes” are collapsing (FWIW)

By Jersey Gil

January 23, 2009 2:39 PM | Link to this

For those Folk that asking about TV ST games.. the MLB Network, today they reveal the February TV Schedule, Starting in Feb 20 the show call “30Club 30Days” they featuring player,coaching & GM interview….Guess who is the First Show feature???…..The Boston Red Sox, The Braves will be on March 2 , also they going to broadcast the Caribbean Series with two games Daily, and also some ST games in March, including the WBC.

By McFann O –[zzz] (Braves Fann For Life)

January 23, 2009 2:40 PM | Link to this

Hillbilly “Can you make room on that island for the guy on ‘Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,’”

Come on, now.

By Oasisbraves

January 23, 2009 2:40 PM | Link to this

Oasisbraves top ten movies

1. The Empire Strikes Back, 2. Return of the Jedi, 3. Star Wars, 4. Raiders of the Lost Ark, 5. Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, 6. Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, 7. The Dark Knight, 8. Jurassic Park, 9. Gremlins, 10. Poltergeist

By Fan-coeur (Frenchy has heart)

January 23, 2009 2:43 PM | Link to this

BTW, Javier Vazquez went 6 and 1/3 innings allowing 4 hits, no runs, one walk and six strikeouts in a 1-0 Ponce victory over Arecibo in the Puerto Rico Playoffs (Winter League) Wednesday night. Luis Matos had a triple and scored the only run of the game.

True it’s only Winter League but it is practice for MLB.

By McFann O –[zzz] (Braves Fann For Life)

January 23, 2009 2:44 PM | Link to this

Oh, I’ll tell you another guy I don’t like: Mr. “It ‘s not a new truck, it’s a new F150”.

They gotta put all the stinkin’ words up there on the screen, and it drives me INSANE!

By Oasisbraves

January 23, 2009 2:47 PM | Link to this

Thats fine if the show the Red Sox first….at least when they finally get to Atlanta they will have spring training game footage to show….Boston all they will be able to do is talk…

GO BRAVES

By Mike S

January 23, 2009 2:48 PM | Link to this

Sorry, Hillbilly. I love the Sonic commercials. Unfortunately for them, it’s never driven me to actually eat at Sonic before, however.

By big o

January 23, 2009 2:49 PM | Link to this

What up DOB ? The closer we get to spring training the more my anger subsides over the whole Smoltz thing. I hope the Braves sign Jones. I think Bobby can fix his head and that will fix his swing and he will have a kick a$$ year. Not trying to blow my own horn but about 2 months ago I was scorched on your blog for suggesting this could happen.anywho, Boras is full of it I don’t believe there are 8 teams calling. CHICK FLICK REFRENCE… that many teams are just not into him. I think Hansen should go ahead and be in the rotation this year. I like Dunn and the kid from B’more. What do you think of J.F arbitration request ?

By BigHittas

January 23, 2009 2:52 PM | Link to this

well ….

I think

….um….

aw hell, why bother?

By salamander

January 23, 2009 2:55 PM | Link to this

Dmack I somewhat agree with you in terms of ‘later-rather-than-sooner’ call-ups to prevent prospects from aquiring super-two arbitration status. I’ll admit right now that I’m no expert on how arb. works, but it seems that delaying call-ups can be beneficial to clubs in the long-run (in terms of saving money). However, given our outfield situation - if Schafer is ready to man CF, then I think the Braves should start the season with him on the ML club. Given the stability of the rotation going into next season - delaying Hanson’s call-up makes sense.

By brandon

January 23, 2009 2:58 PM | Link to this

imagine what the farm system would have been without the tex trade.

By ORbravesFAN

January 23, 2009 3:01 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB,

It Jay McGwire, but yeah what does it matter, maybe you butchered his name on purpose? He is a piece of crap.

Anyway, what are your thoughts on the Braves needing a true leadoff hitter?

By Alan

January 23, 2009 3:03 PM | Link to this

DOB, why has there been no word in a few days regarding Will Ohman? I believe you wrote then that you had talked with him, and he was leaning toward re-signing with the Braves “… if they upped their offer a bit,” or something like that. Any news? I’m really surprised that Ohman and Joe Beimel remain unsigned — not to mention Ramirez, Dunn, Abreu, O. Hudson et al. It’s been a really weird off-season.

By BravesFanInRockies

January 23, 2009 3:09 PM | Link to this

Oh, I’ll tell you another guy I don’t like: Mr. “It ‘s not a new truck, it’s a new F150”.McFann

That’s Denis Leary, if I’m not mistaken. All the Rescue Me junkies will be after you!

By Jeff R

January 23, 2009 3:13 PM | Link to this

The way management would structure a Andruw deal, no downside, I guess, in giving him a spring trial. But I think its largely a waste of time. If Andruw couldn’t get his act together for a lucrative two-year deal from the Dodgers, why is he going to do so now? He doesn’t have to produce anymore: his Dodger deal sets him up nicely financially.

Andruw, a Dodger dud and a Braves retread.

By BravesFanInRockies

January 23, 2009 3:13 PM | Link to this

As for Lew’s list, I was about to put TV Pitchman Billy Mays on it until he started doing those ESPN360 commercials. Suddenly he took on Shatner-like qualities. Anyone who can laugh at himself is OK in my book.

By Reality

January 23, 2009 3:14 PM | Link to this

From Keith Law’s chat:

“James (LA): I really believe that Jason Heyward is a better hitter than Jeff Francoeur, like, right now this instant.

Keith Law: This is not a stretch “

By BravesFanInRockies

January 23, 2009 3:16 PM | Link to this

salamander

Considering the state of the Braves OF in 2008, I’d give Schafer the chance to win the job in March and not worry about his service time. Besides, there’s depth at that position in the lower minors with Hernandez.

Hanson’s probably a different story. Barring injuries to several guys now on the roster, I see no reason to start the clock on him until June, or however long it takes to not burn an arbitration year.

By Braveheart

January 23, 2009 3:18 PM | Link to this

The Extreme Makeover guy acts like Ryan Seacrest’s gayer, older brother.

By Einstein

January 23, 2009 3:25 PM | Link to this

Who cares about Andruw Jones. He (and his fellow POS agent Scott Bora$) is what’s wrong with MLB. There is no accountability, no responsibility, and certainly no reality…and the fans are beginning to notice it, too. Thirty-three hits for $36M, and the Dodgers have made a great deal (with a huge concession from Bora$) to defer the majority…give me a break! Jones should beg the Braves or any major league team for a chance to play for free. Please Mr. Wren, stand on your principles of sound leadership and prudent stewardship, and tell those “washed-up” and “blood-sucking” bums that the new Atlanta Braves aren’t interested. We don’t need AJ to provide the fans with striking out in crucial situations with the bases loaded…we’ve got Frenchy. I’d give AJ a minor league deal only if he showed up at spring practice weighing 190 lbs. and was willing to listen to our hitting coach. Peace.

By David-ATL14

January 23, 2009 3:27 PM | Link to this

Great blog as usual Crusading One!

Good to see all the denizens out in full force as Dark Star looms.

Special tip of the cap to fellow East Tennesee denizen Greg in Tenn Hope things have gone well over the winter.

Hopefully we will get a chance this summer to see a steady parade of young talent proceeding through the Smoky Mountains when the M-Braves come calling.

ST can’t get here quick enough.

By nolie

January 23, 2009 3:36 PM | Link to this

What are the chances Heyward absolutely rakes in spring training and the Braves decide to keep him on the everyday roster as at least a platoon LF? TommyP

less than 1%

By Lee in S GA

January 23, 2009 3:38 PM | Link to this

I like the Sonic commercials; they make you think.

By WestPalmDawg

January 23, 2009 3:39 PM | Link to this

A few thoughts…

-I love amateurism. And not just baseball.

-People say that the baseball draft is dumb, too long, etc. Yeah right. That thing should be televised for the first 5 rounds.

-I’d love to have Brian Roberts join the Braves. Dudes a smash mouth baseball player

-I don’t think Willie Mays could help Andruw find his mojo. He’s flat out unfixable and terrible at baseball.

-Casey Anthony’s guilty.

-Can’t wait to hear Boog Powell Jr.

Done.

By Hillbilly

January 23, 2009 3:40 PM | Link to this

The Extreme Makeover guy acts like Ryan Seacrest’s gayer, older brother.

Yeah, Braveheart, maybe they deserve their own island, because quite honestly, not even Shamwow, PETA, or Jay “don’t call me Ray” McGwire deserve the punishment of their company.

By flange1

January 23, 2009 3:41 PM | Link to this

Afternoon all,

Coach, I think the Braves front office did the best they could in revamping the rotation for 2009. I am happy with Lowe and happy with Javy. The only move I question is signing KK when you have Glavine, JoJo, Morton and Hanson fighting for 2 spots. But, I am happy with MORE pitching rather than less.

In terms of finding a hitter, that will happen. The market for LF is still not stable and until SOMEONE signs the market will remain backed up.

FW will get a hitter, it’s just a matter of which one and how much.

I am a fan of Dye, but I think the Sox are still asking too much.

We will see!

In terms of McGwire’s brother, what a waste of space….I hear he is a body builder and should know about steroids and HGH. I guess I missed him taking responsibility for using PED’s and I missed him taking responsibility and apologizing for Mark using PEDs.

Anyone that buys that book is and idiot….

By Chop Chop

January 23, 2009 3:42 PM | Link to this

I don’t want Don Sutton back. I’ve never been a fan of Poodlehead. However, the Braves must be worried that people won’t listen to the radio after Pete’s departure.

Or maybe it’s because of The Lemmer…

By Chris from the Rock

January 23, 2009 3:43 PM | Link to this

DOB, if the Braves were intent on trading Blanco to free up a roster spot for AJ, what do you think he would net? A mid-level prospect or two perhaps? B/C of his solid defense and high OBP, do you think a team like the A’s would be interested in him? It’s not like they have much in the way of OFs, other than Holliday.

By Jersey Gil

January 23, 2009 3:44 PM | Link to this

In interview with San Juan News Paper (ENDI.COM) Vazquez said that if the Series go to a seven games he will pitch again, also he said that he will not be available to the Caribbean Series, he’s planing to report to Camp Roger in Atlanta and to the ST and then play in the Classic.

By Cooch

January 23, 2009 3:44 PM | Link to this

A. I hate losing.

B. mediocrity is unacceptable.

C. I hold my team to a much higher level

D. I am a complete moronic azzhole

By 18 Wheels of Love

January 23, 2009 3:46 PM | Link to this

As much as I appreciate what Andruw did for us over the years, including going around Boras and negotiating a long term deal, I just think that bringing him in, even with a minimum deal, is going to be too much of a distraction. We’ve already heard from Chipper and Frenchy that AJ is still pull-happy. I would prefer getting a known commodity like a Nady or even a Dunn and only worry about finding a CF’er in camp.

Imagine the distraction should he put together enough of a spring training to squeak a spot on the roster, and then have him stink it up. Then you have to find a replacement mid-season and by then you have missed out on the trades and FA signings. I know the reward is high, but I think it carries too many negative consequences.

By Wilson

January 23, 2009 3:47 PM | Link to this

DOB, I hate to be the grammar police or one of those guys that nitpicks at everything, but I believe McGwire’s brother is named Jay not Ray.

By ncscoots

January 23, 2009 3:49 PM | Link to this

—less than 1%—

And KC replies, “yeah, but HOW less?”

By BamaBrave

January 23, 2009 3:51 PM | Link to this

I haven’t read Chipper’s assessment of Andruw, as relayed by jmart1951, but if that’s true…Gott im Himmel!!! I simply can’t understand why a professional athlete wouldn’t take ALL possible corrective steps to facilitate a return to top form. I seem to recall Andruw’s early-slump attitude was “nobody knows my swing better than me, so I don’t need advice.” That was a season and a half ago! I’d love to see him make an epic comeback as a Brave, but jeeeezus! Do we know if he’s tried any sports psychologists? Would he be open to that? All we’re asking and hoping for, is that he simply admit that he doesn’t have the answers, and take on the attitude of the average amateur golfer, who is in a constant cycle of self-analysis and correction. Is that too much to ask? C’mon AJ… Nobody paid me a damn dime to correct my slice. Just show us a little frigging humility, suck it up, and take the necessary steps. I, for one, would love to have you back.

By dogsbrekky

January 23, 2009 3:52 PM | Link to this

I have started watching “Burn After Reading”

It pretty much is below par as far as Coen Bros stuff goes !!

By nolie

January 23, 2009 3:52 PM | Link to this

January 23, 2009 12:00 PM | Link to this

The chances of Schafer And Hernandez ever playing in the same Braves’ OF are slim, based on their current projections, anyway. Both are excellent players, but neither projects to be a big corner OF bat. Schafer may end up with good power for a CF, but I don’t think he’ll be a big-time 30-HR slugger. Gorkys doesn’t look as if he has the frame to become a banger, from what I’ve seen. Scoots

I was thinking the same thing when I read that post. I’ll be kinda surprised if they play together in the same outfield for very long. Of course it might depend some on who replaces Bobby. Wren seems to like speed and if Gorkys proves to be able to maintain a high OBP and successful steal rate, a new manager might decide to make him into the lead-off hitter.

By Please no

January 23, 2009 3:57 PM | Link to this

If they go into this year with that offense outfield again WE HAVE NO CHANCE!

By McFann O –[zzz] (Braves Fann For Life)

January 23, 2009 3:57 PM | Link to this

BFIR—

Uh-oh…guess I better watch out.

BILLY MAYS?? YOU MEAN THE GUY THAT TALKS REALLY LOUD AND LOOKS LIKE DENNIS MILLER??

Haha…Ever seen the one where he tells you what you cann put on hamburgers? Haha!

By TommyP

January 23, 2009 3:58 PM | Link to this

Fred: You’re preaching to the choir. But that kind of thing is encouraged here.

Hypothetical situation, Braves fans: The Braves go into the season with a platoon LF of Brandon Jones and Matt Diaz.

June arrives and the LF platoon is proving inept while Heyward is now hitting .320 for Mississippi.

Do you call him up and plug into LF?

Or Heyward bashes out a .430 spring batting average. Do you plug him into the LF slot?

By KC

January 23, 2009 4:00 PM | Link to this

nscoots: I’m amazed how often I’m brought into conversations that have nothing to do with me! lol

By ChipperFan

January 23, 2009 4:03 PM | Link to this

nolie and scoots

When I wrote that post, I was assuming (as I think you have to) that the Braves would have McCann at C, Freeman at 1B, Heyward as I said in RF, and with Escobar at SS. Now, to my way of thinking, that’s a heck of a lot of power bats. Best to use the great speed and defense of your 2 cheap, home-grown studs in Schafer and Gorkys as the other 2 OFs, and if they’re as good of OBP, avg., and SB guys as we all hope, then they can be a devastating combo at the top of the order (thereby setting the table for the aforementioned mashers).

I realize I’m getting ahead of myself and being overly optimistic…but that’s what fans do! I can dream, can’t I?

By Bubdylan

January 23, 2009 4:05 PM | Link to this

A. I hate losing. Coach

I’m guessing hate is what you’re feeling right about now, then.

By David O'Brien

January 23, 2009 4:13 PM | Link to this

dogsbrekky, you were so bored with it you had to stop to vent, or what? I actually loved that movie (Burn After Reading). Not one of my top five Coen Bros. movies, but not far outside that group either.

By David O'Brien

January 23, 2009 4:16 PM | Link to this

Jay, Ray … in this case, whatever.

What a beautiful day here in Atlanta, by the way. Just took a long ride on the bike, after riding downtown for a meeting at the office. Upper 60s and sunny here today.

By Flamenco the Foot

January 23, 2009 4:17 PM | Link to this

So….uh, how bout them braves?

By ncscoots

January 23, 2009 4:19 PM | Link to this

Heyward has had seven games at high A. Seven. I kinda think the Braves might like him to have a few more before they send him to face advanced pitching in AA, let alone face Johan Santana.

Rushing Jason Heyward would be a mistake of colossal proportion.

By Lew

January 23, 2009 4:20 PM | Link to this

Gary-Dude, you may want to wake up some morning, open the window and see that Freaking Burger King handing you a sandwich, but it creeps the VORP out of me.

By Jersey Gil

January 23, 2009 4:22 PM | Link to this

This from MLBTR” The Diamondbacks have been staying in touch with the agents for several relievers, including lefties Will Ohman and Joe Beimel. Still sounds like they’re focused on a starting pitcher before seeing how much money they have left to address the bullpen. I think the Braves need to sign Ohman now, and make a trade with Baltimore, how about this trade, Diory Hernandez,JoJo Reyes for Roberts.

By David O'Brien

January 23, 2009 4:22 PM | Link to this

Hydee, the complete list of non-roster invitees is in story posted online. Also had it in comments section of yesterday’s blog when it was released by Braves.

No, Julian Tavarez not on it. I’m sure he’s trying to get a major league contract with someone (haven’t seen that he’s signed anywhere, but I could have missed it).

Braves can add more non-roster invitees any time.

By ncscoots

January 23, 2009 4:23 PM | Link to this

KC, roger that, my friend. I couldn’t help it when I saw that 1% remark, your (fictional) response was the first thing that popped in my head, LOL.

By richbrave

January 23, 2009 4:24 PM | Link to this

HERE’s HOPING THE BRAVES GET SUTTON —— out of the NATIONALS viewing audiance, that is. What a relief that will be.

By Bubdylan

January 23, 2009 4:25 PM | Link to this

I actually loved that movie (Burn Before Reading). DOB

You’d like “Yes Country for Old Men”

(no, still haven’t gotten a life. Workin’ on it.)

By DAP

January 23, 2009 4:26 PM | Link to this

scoots i agree, but it wont be an issue. the braves wont bring heyward up until mid-2010 at the earliest. thats a year and a half and two big league camps from now.

By NY Braves Fan

January 23, 2009 4:26 PM | Link to this

DOB

i understand that their is no reason to rush him but if Hanson just looks dominant in spring what is your opinion on possibly giving him the 5th spot in the rotation to start the year?

By McPoyle

January 23, 2009 4:27 PM | Link to this

toss up: who is the worse person?

Former Brave great, John Rocker or Mark McGwire’s biggest fan, Jay McGwire

You really can’t go wrong here. Lately it seems that baseball has been producing a lot of quality individuals for this catagory.

By Lew

January 23, 2009 4:29 PM | Link to this

McFann-No, If I were having to stand next to the Progressive Lady, listening to her ramble on, I would be trying to find the fire exit. She kind of reminds me of an old Night Gallery episode with Jon Aston (right around the time of The Addam’s Family-The REAL one). He was in a car wreck and wakes up in this little room with Ma and Pa Kettle (Lord I’m showing my age) showing slides of all of their vacations. He comes to find he’s died and this is his particular HELL.

Mine would include the Progressive Lady, that Freaking Burger KIng and Kathy Lee Gifford. Yikes.

By Train Wreck Bystander

January 23, 2009 4:29 PM | Link to this

Speaking of television, any idea when the Braves TV schedule will be nailed down? I keep checking braves.com, but it’s filled with TBA times and no inkling as to which broadcast outlet has which game.

By BravesFanInRockies

January 23, 2009 4:30 PM | Link to this

Lew (4:20), amen. Makes me more likely to patronize McDonald’s and that’s never a good idea.

By littlebird

January 23, 2009 4:32 PM | Link to this

Andruw is horrible. leave him alone.

By hydee

January 23, 2009 4:33 PM | Link to this

Thanks DOB. And I have been keeping track, and no he has not signed elsewhere yet, for whoever else may be concerned :)

By BravesFanInRockies

January 23, 2009 4:33 PM | Link to this

McFann,

Yep, Billy Mays. One and the same. His radio commercials for ESPN are even better, to the effect of —

“You’ve seen me on TV. Now I’m on your radio. One day I’ll be in your house. Looking through your cabinets. Checking out your laundry hamper …”

FIrst time I heard that I almost lost it.

By BravesFanInRockies

January 23, 2009 4:34 PM | Link to this

ncscoots,

Notice I haven’t said anything about Wednesday yet.

By Jersey Gil

January 23, 2009 4:37 PM | Link to this

Lew LOL in your 4:29 Post….You are not old,buddy

By Good Grief

January 23, 2009 4:42 PM | Link to this

The Braves have enough problems without putting the Pillsbury Dough Boy out in the outfield. The guy had to QUIT winter ball because he sucked. How can any sane GM or manager even THINK this has been can be a productive player again. I had rather have a rookie hitting .255, with 6 dingers and 40 RBI than Jones’ .203, 12 dingers and 38 RBI with 155 K’s. We have seen this show before.

By MattyRoss

January 23, 2009 4:45 PM | Link to this

The Rangers met with Ben Sheets recently…that would be pretty ideal. Is anybody else just praying he stays out of the NL East? That guy has absolutely owned the Braves. I don’t really have the stats to back it up, but didn’t he K 20 against us in the last couple years? I just hope the Mets stick with Perez and the Phillies don’t realize they have a pretty mediocre rotation. Just head to Texas, Ben. Please.

By septic

January 23, 2009 4:54 PM | Link to this

dogsbrekky The Castle is an absolute classic! ” tell him his dreaming” ” Oh the serenity!”

It is about time the Braves started blooding some of the young studs in ST and see what they can do. DOB - love the blog. best way to stay in touch with my home town braves from down under

By ncscoots

January 23, 2009 4:54 PM | Link to this

BFIR, hell, I’LL say plenty about it, LOL. Tigers absolutely stunk it up. Got rattled at the start of the second half, forgot how to shoot or defend. Not much else to dissect! That’s two bad losses to good quality teams, and they’ll either find a way to stop that or finish middle of the pack.

Bad conference losses are nothing to be ashamed of, that happens to a lot of good teams in tough conferences. But the Tigers have to show they have the inner will to suck it up.

By mbatl

January 23, 2009 4:57 PM | Link to this

For those who haven’t seen it, Bowman has a good article up on Chipper’s contract situation, here

Braves need to make this a priority before spring training!

By MiamiBrave

January 23, 2009 5:00 PM | Link to this

DOB

Just wondering a few things after reading the Chipper story by Bowman

1. Don’t you think this extension needs to happen to take some more sting off the John Smoltz to Bosox saga? I know signing D.Lowe helped with this, but signing Chipper to an extension is along the same lines as Smoltzy.

2. Chipper says he won’t negotiate during the season and spring training is less than month away…S.T. ain’t the season so could they continue to talk during that time? (Even though Chipper might also be with Team USA)

thanks for the hard work, Chief

By 18 Wheels of Love

January 23, 2009 5:02 PM | Link to this

“Well you can call Ray, or you can call me Jay…”

By RemoW

January 23, 2009 5:02 PM | Link to this

Ok Wren. I am willing to give a pass on the Smoltz thing. I really believe that Smoltz wanted a shot at a ring and the Red Sox provided a better option then the Braves. (Oh the pain!!!) It hurts but I get it.

But when it comes to Chipper!!! Come on. Hoss is still a top notch major leaguer even if he misses 30 - 45 games a season. Work out an extension. I would really like to see on of our HOF players actually retire a Brave! The guy willing restructured his contract to help the team. That has got to almost rank up there as a miracle in this day and age!

DOB: any whisper about Chipper and extensions?

By KC

January 23, 2009 5:04 PM | Link to this

MattyRoss: Agreed on sheets. When some of the Sheets/Mets rumors were circulating, I said then that Ben Sheets is the only player the Mets could sign that would scare the hell out of both Braves AND Mets fans!!

Whoever signs him has to know he could spend half the season on the shelf. But IF he’s healthy, he’s nasty.

By McFann O –[zzz] (Braves Fann For Life)

January 23, 2009 5:12 PM | Link to this

Lew—

Haha…Don’t know what mine would be, but it would definitely included “that freaking Burger King”, too—he creeps more than the VORP outta me.

BFIR—

LOL! Haven’t heard that!

By WrenFlops

January 23, 2009 5:20 PM | Link to this

DOB, the reference in this blog as to whether or not to begin talking new contract with Chipper Jones is one that has been on my mind for a while. He’s still very productive and may be physically able to play 2-3 more years. He has spent some time on the DL the last several years. With that being said, my question was do you see anyone in the organization who can be groomed to play third on the major league level? The Braves have a player who is projected to play on the major league level at every position except third base unless I have missed someone. Of course, Chipper wasn’t a third baseman in the minor leagues, was he?

By KEITH MOON LIVES

January 23, 2009 5:21 PM | Link to this

D.O.B. I love your lists, and would love to see your top 10’s alltime on: Bands…Albums…Movies…Great movie quotes…Actors. Thanks

By melnee

January 23, 2009 5:24 PM | Link to this

I THINK THAT THE BRAVES SHOULD SIGN ANDRUW JONES BECAUSE WHY NOT BELIVE IN SECOND CHANCES I MEAN YEA HE HAD A HORRIBLE SEASON LAST YEAR BUT I THINK THAT THIS YEAR HE HAS SOMRTHING TO PROVE IF GHE WANTS HIS MARKET VALUE TO GO UP BRAVES PLEASE SIGN ANDRUW JONES FORGET ALL U ANDRUW HATES AND BY THE WAY HIS NAME IS SPELLED WITH A U AND NOT AN E

By swingandamiss

January 23, 2009 5:29 PM | Link to this

OMG no. Say it isn’t so!!!My fear is that Bobby, with his love of veterans, will give Andruw more benefit of the doubt that he deserves. Andruw has always been a horrible hitter. Sometimes his power numbers have been nice, but he has always tried to pull everything thrown to him…sounds like the right fielder. I can see a center/right combination responsible for 300-plus strikeouts between Frenchy and A.J. As I have said here before: if it is time to move on, let’s move on. Stop trying to recycle completely washed up players

By Smack65

January 23, 2009 5:33 PM | Link to this

smack,

Yeah, we have to give up a pick for Lowe, as he was offered arbitration and was a type A free agent. Our #7 pick is protected, so the Dodgers will get our #7 2nd round pick in addition to a supplemental sandwich pick between the two rounds.

Thanks FJR!

By Fat Andy

January 23, 2009 5:34 PM | Link to this

Signing Andy to the minimum WITHOUT opening up a major league roster spot for him is alright with me. (I do realize that the Braves front office is not going to consult me on this) Why not take a flier on him? HOWEVER, here’s a guy who has fallen into the jaws of baseball hell with his swing and offensive approach. He’s the poster child for falling off the face of the earth!

So how much lower does he have to go before he humbles himself enough to change his approach to hitting? CHIPPER has been hitting with him and he plainly says he is still making the same mistakes and is pull happy. He sucked in the Dominican winter league! TP complained constantly that Druw was stubborn and wouldn’t listen to anyone.

I suppose the conclusion to this unhappy rant is that if the events of the last couple of seasons haven’t yet convinced Andruw he MUST change his approach to hitting, what makes us think he’ll magically show up at spring training and start raking?

If Andruw shows up with the Braves in the spring for the minimum and on a minor league contract, I can live with it. If he shows up with any team other than the Braves this spring, no tears here.

I’m betting against Andruw finding results that are any different than his last couple of seasons.

By David O'Brien

January 23, 2009 5:34 PM | Link to this

MiamiBrave, there’s nearly three months for Chipper and his agent to negotiation with the Braves before opening day. Remember, Braves signed McCann to his long-term deal during spring training. Also signed Hudson to his long-term extension at spring training.

Chipper and his agent are as easy or easier to work with thany any star player and his agent, so if the Braves want this to happen, there’s really no excuse for them not to lock him up to an extension, unless they don’t want to go three years (what he’s looking for).

It’s not like he’s threatening them or asking for top dollar. If he wanted to get more money, he could simply wait and explore free agency. But he’s making it clear he’s open to negotiate now and has said many times he’d prefer to stay.

However, if they were to wait until after the season, to see if he stays healthy, etc., I’d imagine he might be tempted to see what other teams would offer. But I don’t think they (Braves) plan to wait until after the season.

By Mike

January 23, 2009 5:42 PM | Link to this

It’s great that Don will be back on the radio.. However, for those of us located in … say … Colorado, we need Don on TV. The furthest East I’ve ever lived is Texas, yet I’m entering my 28th year as a diehard Braves fan. Braves TV is my only outlet and we need Don back in the TV booth.

By T-Bone

January 23, 2009 5:42 PM | Link to this

DOB, would the Braves have any interest in getting in the Peavy conversation. With the pitchers they’ve already signed, they could be dealing from a position of strength.

I think we go after the Roberts kid. We have’t had a leadoff threat since Grissom.

I do hope FW will try to sign a bat for the outfield.

By brent a.

January 23, 2009 5:45 PM | Link to this

Brent A, the Plaza on Ponce is just $6, a bargain compared to most others in Atlanta. And they show great movies, a mix of arthouse and your edgier mainstream movies. DOB

Thank you!

By MiamiBrave

January 23, 2009 5:47 PM | Link to this

Thanks DOB

that’s what I wanted to make sure of, that they could negotiate during ST just not during season…

go Bravos

By Joe

January 23, 2009 5:47 PM | Link to this

The Braves should go after Orioles 2B Brian Roberts I think he will fit just right with The Braves.

By Oasisbraves

January 23, 2009 5:47 PM | Link to this

Oasisbraves top ten movies

The Empire Strikes Back, 2. Return of the Jedi, 3. Star Wars, 4. Raiders of the Lost Ark, 5. Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, 6. Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, 7. The Dark Knight, 8. Jurassic Park, 9. Gremlins, 10. Poltergeist

Others that almost make my list: Back to the Future Trilogy, Ghostbusters, and Jaws.

By AAP

January 23, 2009 5:51 PM | Link to this

I would love to have Don Sutton back. I thought he gave outstanding insight into how the game was played. I couldn’t understand why they kept Joe (who is good) and let Don go (who is better). Seems like he would help with the pitching staff too, or did the Braves feel like he meddled?

By Bill ( From Ohio )

January 23, 2009 5:52 PM | Link to this

Who all did we get in the Tex trade?

By BravesFanInRockies

January 23, 2009 5:52 PM | Link to this

ncscoots,

The Tigers should have played the Heels about two weeks earlier. Before they got punched in the face by BC and Wake. I’m not sure even “the streak” would have been enough to motivate the Heels to play some D before those takedowns.

By BravesFanInRockies

January 23, 2009 5:55 PM | Link to this

Mike

You can get the home feed to every MLB game on XM. OK, you have to buy a receiver (about $40) and pay the subscription fee ($13 a month), but it’s worth every penny. I’ve been a subscriber since 2002 and can’t imagine not having the sports programming, let alone all the excellent music channels.

By Salamander

January 23, 2009 6:21 PM | Link to this

*melnee * How about you work on your spelling before asking others to spell Andruw’s name correctly.

Also, the caps-lock key is not cruise-control for cool.

FYI - Andruw has “HATES” as you put it because his swing the past couple years is uglier than armadillo roadkill.

By DHD

January 23, 2009 6:28 PM | Link to this

Give me Sutton. Give me Glavine. Give me Abreu. Let’s Roll!!!

By Run Heap Run

January 23, 2009 6:28 PM | Link to this

So DOB, just to clarify your comment…you really believe the braves will give chipper the 3 year extension? Maybe that’s not what your comment meant but I need some reassurance, dammit. : - )

By nolie

January 23, 2009 6:44 PM | Link to this

And KC replies, “yeah, but HOW less?” KC

LOL. I’d say about 99% less than 1%. my slide rule don’t go no lower than that.

By dogsbrekky

January 23, 2009 6:44 PM | Link to this

DOB - yes I had to vent about “Burn After reading”

so disappointed after seeing so many great Coen Bros movies !

Off to see your recommended “Revolutionary Road”

By Braveheart

January 23, 2009 6:49 PM | Link to this

I can’t believe anyone’s brother would dog them out like that. Just can’t believe that. I can’t imagine me or my brother ever doing that to each other. I’ve bid bye bye to many a good friend over the years because they made the mistake of believing they were cool enough or down enough with me to trash my brother. No, no, bro. I’m the only one who gets to dog my brother and no one but my brother gets to see or hear me dog him. I’ll say it or do it right to his face when there ain’t a soul around as we get ready to beat the hell out of each other and call each other every name in the book, but no one will ever hear or see that but us.

It’s gotta be tough for Big Mac since he always seemed to be an intensely private guy. He also seemed to value family as well - I think in addition to injuries in the early 90s derailing him, a divorce at that time had him reeling as well. So having his own blood, who his secrets and insecurities should be safest with, do this to him, must hurt him something awful.

This guy is the ultimate “other brother.” He had one brother who was the king of homers for a while and another who was a high draft selection by the NFL as a QB. This guy seems like a total loser.

Even his revelations are loser revelations. Kind of reminds me of when that dimwit McCellan wasted everyone’s time publishing a book filled with no sh!t sherlock revelations about W, long after folks stopped caring, and for no reason other than he had an axe to grind and a dime to make.

Oh, what the hell am I talking about? Oh, another thing. I hate folks who say things such as he’s like a brother to me or like a father to me. When folks say that all it tells me is that they’ve never had a brother or father worth a damn. No friend is ever as good as a brother or father. At least none that I’ve encountered ….. but maybe that’s because my brother and father never made me feel like I needed to find someone to be “like a brother” or “like a father.” Maybe I’m fortunate like that. I’d tell Jesus to go screw his mother before I found myself disrespecting my brother and father by saying someone was like them.

By Fred

January 23, 2009 7:00 PM | Link to this

Bill (from Ohio), We got Tex and Ron Mahay in the trade with the Rangers. Obviously we gave up a lot considering neither player is currently with the Braves.

By TexasBrave

January 23, 2009 7:01 PM | Link to this

DOB I hope you are right about the Braves getting something done with Chipper this spring. I however am not getting a good feeling because of the way Wren treated the Smoltz situation. I have a gut feeling they wait until the end of the season to see how well Chipper makes it through and plan accordingly. I Chipper can’t improve on games played I think the Braves will be hesitant to offer him a three year deal. Which means Chipper and his agent will also shop around and find a better deal that what the Braves will offer.

By Bubdylan

January 23, 2009 7:05 PM | Link to this

“I’d tell Jesus to go screw his mother before I found myself disrespecting my brother and father by saying someone was like them.” Braveheart

Well, that’s the strangest thing I’ve ever heard declared with a tone of moral superiority.

By mbatl

January 23, 2009 7:11 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, I take great offense at the last sentence of your last post. Not that it likely matters, but thought I’d let you know, just in case it does.

By David O'Brien

January 23, 2009 7:27 PM | Link to this

run heap run: No, I meant I don’t think they’ll wait until after the season to give him an extension. Whether it’s a three-year extension, that I don’t know.

By David O'Brien

January 23, 2009 7:39 PM | Link to this

DOB, was the Texiera trade worth it?YankeeDawg

Well of course not, in retrospect. But when you make trades, you don’t have the benefit of retrospect, and you sure don’t have a crystal ball. So you’re always rolling the dice on any deal when you give up young talent for veterans you might not keep for long.

When Schuerholz made the deal, he did so because he and Bobby Cox and the rest believed Tex and Mahay could help put the over the top and not just get them into the playoffs, but help them make a run deep into the postseason once they got there. If that had happened, then it would surely have been worth it.

That didn’t happen, so no, it wasn’t worth it. Again, if you never want to take chances, if you’ve got a team you believe is close to being a playoff team, but you’re afraid to make a big trade you think could put you over the top, well, then that’s one way to go about things.

But I can assure you of this: If info had been leaked at that time, or shortly thereafter, that the Braves could have had Teixeira and a top lefty if they’d given up a handful of prospects to get them, and they didn’t do it, and they missed the postseason by a couple of games, there would have been a whole of folks howling about how the Braves wouldn’t trade minor leaguers to get Tex because they’re too tight to pay a big salary and too scared to make necessary moves because they overvalue unproven young guys and blah blah blah. And you know I’m right. Not saying you, YankeeDawg, would’ve been one of them, but you know there would have been plenty of second-guessers.

That’s the way it goes. If things don’t work out, you’re always going to be criticized, just as some were critical of the Braves for not throwing in whatever young player it took to get Peavy, while others say they’re thankful they didn’t.

By Navigator

January 23, 2009 7:46 PM | Link to this

Keep Sutton, get rid of Andruw. The man’s career is over, get used to that idea.

By Wayne in Utah

January 23, 2009 7:48 PM | Link to this

ncscoots and KC

—less than 1%—

So, your saying he’s got a chance…….

By nolie

January 23, 2009 7:53 PM | Link to this

Braveheart

you may not appreciate this, but dude every so often you go off and say some pretty weird angry stuff. That whole post had me scratching my head. I’m not a prude at all, but that last sentence was totally off the mark on a board like this.

By Braveheart

January 23, 2009 8:10 PM | Link to this

nollie, mbatl, bubdylan, you’re right. went off the deep end there. sorry about that. hopefully, someone will delete it.

By jaglawyer

January 23, 2009 8:19 PM | Link to this

Wayne: nice “Dumb and Dumber” reset.

Oasisbraves: You got the Ewoks number 2 on your list? The Last Crusade before Raiders?

SIGH

By Coach (Skip and Pete will be missed)

January 23, 2009 8:20 PM | Link to this

From 1995 through 2003 Chipper Jones averaged 155 games played, 107 runs, 31 HR’s, 105 RBI while hitting .308

The last five years his totals look like this: 123 games played, 82 runs, 25 HR’s, 86 RBI while batting .314

As a fan I would give Hoss whatever he wants. But when considering that he has averaged missing twenty-five percent of each season during the last five years and his wheels are shot to hell, I’m not so sure if three more years guaranteed is very wise.

Maye a one year contract extension guaranteed with two more seasons withe a team option for each year would be agreeable. The man has earned more than 110 million in 15 seasons with the Braves. Money shouldn’t be an issue and Chipper won’t get better as he starts to push 40.

By jaglawyer

January 23, 2009 8:23 PM | Link to this

My bad, didn’t see Raiders at #4. Sorry. I’ll just move on to “Gremlins” at #9. WOW.

By frankie knuckles

January 23, 2009 8:24 PM | Link to this

DOB

Johnny’s version or the Boss’s original? Keep up the good work man.

By BravesAC

January 23, 2009 8:25 PM | Link to this

* DOB * I think your analysis of the Braves trade for Tex is right on. And until the “can’t miss” prospects come up to Texas and actually perform to the expected level, the deal is really tough to question without revising history. Aren’t Schmidt and Dye about the only Braves ’ prospects to be traded away who hit it big? And it took Schmidt a while. A lot of can’t miss prospects like Marte moved on…and amazingly they missed!

By NRBQ

January 23, 2009 8:27 PM | Link to this

WrenFlops:

Chipper was a shortstop with great speed, but wrecked his knee in his first spring training with the big club.

By Coach (Skip and Pete will be missed)

January 23, 2009 8:29 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, God is winking at you. My advice, stick to baseball, religion ain’t your forte.

By Braves help 101

January 23, 2009 8:29 PM | Link to this

DOB, what happened to all those possible trade talks with the cardinals about maybe getting rick ankiel or Ludwick? Are they long dead now?

By Random

January 23, 2009 8:36 PM | Link to this

Bubdylan: “Well, that’s the strangest thing I’ve ever heard declared with a tone of moral superiority.”

Boy howdy — do tell!

I’m still scratchin my head.

Btw — here’s a pic.

Fred: “Coach, Launching a personal attack on DOB is a completely separate issue from “A. I hate losing. B. mediocrity is unacceptable. C. I hold my team to a much higher level.””

Aaahhh — I wouldn’t consider that a personal attack — Coach was simply offering a negative critique of DOB’s skill/talent as a Braves beat reporter, on one particular issue.

Wildly off-target, sure, but then that’s Coach for you.

You know — when alls you got’s a hammer, everthin looks like a nail.

By Chief Nock A Homa

January 23, 2009 8:39 PM | Link to this

Good question, Braves help…

DOB: What is going on with those possible trades??

My hope was that we would end up with Ludwick… Do you think Ankiel, or Ludwick, would help us more…

By Rolf

January 23, 2009 8:39 PM | Link to this

DOB- Chipper has exceeded expectations the past few years. If he gets a 3 yr extension and ends up with a .305 to .310 avg, 450 homers, 2500 hits, 1 MVP, etc. is he in the Hall?

On another note I mention how spoiled we were in 1997: Smoltz pitched 256 innings; Glavine pitched 240 innings; Maddux pitched 233 innings and you’d think that’d be it it, but Denney Neagle pitched 233 innings. Total team ERA: 3.18. Damn.

By Chris from the Rock

January 23, 2009 8:39 PM | Link to this

DOB, I usually agree with you on movies, but “Burn After Reading?” I love the Coen brothers…”The Man Who Wasn’t There,” “Fargo,” “Hudsucker Proxy,” the list goes on. But, for the life of me, cannot understand what people see it in. I really wanted to kick Brad Pitt’s character’s a* the entire movie. I understand the premise…a satire on Langley. But WAY to lowbrow.

By BravesAC

January 23, 2009 8:41 PM | Link to this

Top ten Movie Lists - Hmmm, on this manly man forum it’s all GodFather, Reservoir Dogs, etc. and there’s no room for Princess Bride! Where’s your “inner girl” men???? Just kidding, though I did think it was a hoot. The Graduate, Wild Bunch (it changed movies), Casablanca, Immortal Beloved, Dances With Wolves, The Searchers, Stripes (if you were ever in the military it was a howl), Casino, all work for me. wait, did I forget “Fame”…ok, still kidding.

By Coach (Skip and Pete will be missed)

January 23, 2009 8:48 PM | Link to this

David O’Brien + Jake Peavy = Broken Record.

And yes, the man is going to be taking more crap for it. This is America, I’m an A-Hole, get used to it.

By Bubdylan

January 23, 2009 8:49 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, No worries. Thanks for taking the high road.

By Chief Nock A Homa

January 23, 2009 8:50 PM | Link to this

Let me know when we’re back on the Braves….

By Wayne in Utah

January 23, 2009 9:00 PM | Link to this

Geez Coach, you seem to be the only one on here that is fixated on Jake Peavy. Give it a rest…

By Steve from OH

January 23, 2009 9:10 PM | Link to this

“Let me know when we’re back on the Braves”—Chief NAH.

Not for a while. We’ve all got to get drunk and chastise beat reporters first.

By Bubdylan

January 23, 2009 9:17 PM | Link to this

BravesAC, Gary Oldman was sharp in Immortal Beloved, I must say. I spin Princess Bride once a year. I can beat your inner girl, though: Emma Thompson’s (screenplay) “Sense and Sensiblity” lands in my top 25 easily.

No “Notebook,” though. Everybody’s sensitivity ends somewhere, and that’s where mine pulls up.

Here’s a slightly different (and answerable in short form) movie question for the denizens: what’s the best movie you ever saw that you went into thinking would be crap? For me: All the Pretty Horses.

DOB, you catch the Burn After Reading review in today’s PASTE? I agree with it, mostly. Although, that last facial expression of Brad Pitt’s made me laugh really loud.

By Wayne in Utah

January 23, 2009 9:20 PM | Link to this

Does anybody else believe that a Scott Boras client (Varitek) didn’t know about the Type A draft pick loss?

So, you are either a liar or you are stupid….

By Coach (Skip and Pete will be missed)

January 23, 2009 9:30 PM | Link to this

Concerning the Mark Teixeira trade, John Scheurholz and Frank Wren knew they needed another starting pitcher. The 2007 rotation consisted of Hudson, Smoltz and three days of fervent prayer. The Tex trade was a huge gamble in that JS believed that he could pick up another pitcher in trade. The Braves didn’t and missed the playoffs by five games.

By Chief Nock A Homa

January 23, 2009 9:31 PM | Link to this

Steve from OH:

At least that has something to do with baseball… Let me re-phrase: Let me know when we’re not just talking about movies… I mean, at least talk about Field of Dreams, Eight Men Out, or something…

By AntiCoach

January 23, 2009 9:34 PM | Link to this

OL’ coach sure plays the big shot know-it-all on the board. I bet in real life he’s like Wally Cox in Mr. Peepers. Meek mealy-mouthed myopic midget, afraid of his own shadow and too timid to even talk to most folks. Lotsa repressed anger burning a hole in his tummy down there in the basement. Internet anonymity allows him to vent all that frustration safely. mind you now, I’m not saying he is really a nice guy, cause we all know better;;just that he is too weak to express his inner ugliness anywhere that people know who he is. poor old dude, we should all pity him.

By brian

January 23, 2009 9:50 PM | Link to this

Godfather and the original Star Wars are at the top of my movie list. Close behind, though, is Gladiator - the best movie I have seen as an adult. Great movie. Russell Crowe is incredible in this movie - commanding performance. My favorite line is when the emperor asks for his name and he says that his name is Maximus Desmus Meridius, commander of the Armies of the North, general of the Phoenix legions, loyal to the true emperor Marcus Aurellious, father of a murdered son, husband of a murdered wife, and I will have my revenge in this life or the next or something like that. Incredible scene. What magestic music as well for Gladiator. Now that is a score for a movie. I do not think there has been a comparable movie to Gladiator since Gladiator has been released. The Man in Black would agree if he were here today

Russell Crowe can play the general/leader and would have been a much better lead in Troy.

By David O'Brien

January 23, 2009 9:50 PM | Link to this

Chris From The Rock: That’s cool. I do know that plenty of other Coen Bros. fans loved it, some didn’t. No big deal. I thought it was better than Huducker Proxy, The Ladykillers and Intolerable Cruelty, but I liked all of those three, too. Didn’t love ‘em, but liked them all. Honestly I haven’t disliked a Coen Brothers movie yet.

Coach: Take crap for reporting for two months that the Braves were talking to the Padres about a trade for one of the best pitchers in the game? That’s perfectly fine with me, bro. Because I sure did report on it for, well, at least six weeks, which is how long negotiations lasted. Might even have been two months, because I actually did write something a week before they started negotiating, when I mentioned that the Braves were likely to make an offer for Peavy once I found out he was available. And they did.

So really, feel free to accuse me of writing about it for 7-8 weeks or whatever it was. Because I did. And would again if I heard they were talking again. Because that’s my job, boss. I know that’s a tough one for your to grasp, but it really is my job.

You: Fan. Me: Beat reporter, paid to write about the team and what it’s doing or trying to do, good and bad. This offseason, plenty of bad, then lately some real positives.

By David O'Brien

January 23, 2009 9:52 PM | Link to this

Chief Nock: We’ll talk about the movies we feel like talking about, not the ones you deem acceptable to talk about. No offense.

And if I’m gonna talk about a baseball movie, I’d start with Bull Durham.

By brian

January 23, 2009 9:53 PM | Link to this

Rolf - Chipper is already in the Hall. Everything else is padding the stats and will push him towards first ballot hall of famer. A productive 3 year extension with the Braves back in the playoffs will really push Chipper to 1st ballot. Compare him to switch hitters and even to 3B. Very few can compare to Chipper.

By Coach (Skip and Pete will be missed)

January 23, 2009 9:57 PM | Link to this

Picking the top ten favorite movies.

Hey, it’s purely subjective and according to ones taste. I could pick out twenty or thirty but ten will have to suffice.

The Sound of Music

Easy Rider

The Godfather

Field of Dreams (the greatest baseball film of all time)

Dances with Wolves (ok, I’m partial to Kevin Costner)

Unforgiven

Blade Runner

Rain Man

Schindler’s List

Saving Private Ryan ( I swear, I wept uncontrollably)

By The Truth

January 23, 2009 9:59 PM | Link to this

Coach has no idea what he is talking about. Why are you people even reading his posts? When you see his name, just scroll on down to some of the more intelligent posts on this blog. The guy is lost.

By Samuel Stiles

January 23, 2009 10:04 PM | Link to this

DOB man you know how to pick em. I have been listening to “Nebraska” all week long in this dreary winter of chicago. One of the best records of all time, not to mention my favorite of “the BOSS” This is definitely my favorite song on the record I have covered this one, “atlantic city”, and “state trooper” many times doing solo shows. excellent choice my friend. Gotta say I love the springsteen tune from “the Wrestler” as well. awesome. can’t wait for pitchers and catchers to report!

By Chief Nock A Homa

January 23, 2009 10:04 PM | Link to this

DOB:

I’m with you - Bull Durham heads the list…

All I’m saying is, can we talk baseball with the movies?? You know what I mean??

BTW - how ‘bout any word on an Ankiel or Ludwick trade?? Is this still a possibility??

What’s the thought on if we sign Andruw, does Wren still look for a big bat at the same time, or wait to see if Andruw can do something before making another move??

By Bubdylan

January 23, 2009 10:05 PM | Link to this

Chief Nock a Homa, love Eight Men Out. Did you know that one of the reasons it has that fast cadence is because the actors were instructed to speak their lines quickly so they could get the screenplay in under the studio’s time limit?

But as far as straying from baseball… first day on the blog? (and there are some folks here discussing Chipper, Varitek, the Tex trade, trade options w/ the Cardinals… and that’s just barely scrolling up…)

By McFann O –[zzz] (Braves Fann For Life)

January 23, 2009 10:08 PM | Link to this

Top Ten Movies? Wow…that’s gonna take some thinking…OK if I sleep on it?

Coach—

“Sound of Music” is VORPing great.

Night, all!

By Gibby

January 23, 2009 10:09 PM | Link to this

If you want to talk about a deal a team could have made and didn’t, Baseball America has a nice article about the Pirates up right now. I forgot how several years ago they could have traded Kip Wells for Ryan Howard. If the Braves had been in that position, where they could have acquired a player like that and not done it, I know The fans here would have gone nuts. I think D.O.B. has it right if the braves had not gotten Tex in that deal the fans would have rioted. So it didn’t work out. Not everything does. More often than not the braves make good deals

By David O'Brien

January 23, 2009 10:10 PM | Link to this

We went to see Curious Case of Benjamin Button tonight and it was sold out. Gonna watch The Visitor on DVD now instead.

By David O'Brien

January 23, 2009 10:13 PM | Link to this

Samuel Stiles: The Springsteen tune in the Wrestler is particularly poignant at that moment, too. And it sounds so great after all that bad hair metal music during the movie (though that metal does fit the movie perfectly, setting the tone with the down-and-out, has-been wrestlers in pudunk towns during a Jersey winter, the trailer parks, etc.)

By cabravesfan

January 23, 2009 10:14 PM | Link to this

Top 10 favorite movies? Allow me to add my opinion:

1. Singin’ in the Rain
2. Live and Let Die
3. The Empire Strikes Back
4. Return of the Jedi
5. Thirteen
6. Star Wars
7. Malcolm X
8. The Last King of Scotland
9. Hotel Rawanda
10. Airplane (still one of the funniest movies EVER)

By nolie

January 23, 2009 10:17 PM | Link to this

anybody ever see Billy Peterson in LONG GONE? Fairly decent low-budget baseball comedy and old Hank sings the title song over the credits.. Personally I like all those old ’50s baseball comedies like RHUBARB, ANGELS IN THE OUTFIELD and IT HAPPENS EVERY SPRING. OK Chief there’s some baseball movies forya LOL

By Samuel Stiles

January 23, 2009 10:24 PM | Link to this

You said it. Perfect placement for the song. I will say, i had plenty of laugh out loud moments when certain hair metal tunes came up during the movie. Darren Aronofsky placed em all perfectly. great, great movie. I have been dying to see Benjamin Button, mainly to see how New Orleans looks in the film. They were shooting there for 9 months. Nola his my hometown… and I get goose bumps when I see it in the moving pictures.

By Bubdylan

January 23, 2009 10:25 PM | Link to this

I’ll play:

1. The Godfather I & II

2. 12 Angry Men

3. Glengary Glenn Ross

4. Apocalypse Now

5. It’s A Wonderful Life

6. Raising Arizona

7. Princess Bride

8. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind

9. Carlito’s Way

10. Sling Blade

By Coach (aka Mr Peepers)

January 23, 2009 10:25 PM | Link to this

Not for a while. We’ve all got to get drunk and chastise beat reporters first. Steve

you better watch that mouth boy. I’m the roughest-toughest, leanest-meanest blogger on this here board, boy. You keep sassin’ me boy and I’m gonna rip off your head and crap down your throat. Roll the hole. Ya’hear me boy !

By Samuel Stiles

January 23, 2009 10:35 PM | Link to this

“LONG GONE” Tampico Stogies! This one is very quietly my number 2 favorite baseball film behind “the natural”… Man….Virginia Madsen as Dixie Lee Box…. let’s just say that she got it done then…and is still getting it done today….smokin. “let’s go Stogies, let’s go Stogies! what an awesome little song…. “Giuseppe Brown from Rome Italy!” great stuff.

By nolie

January 23, 2009 10:38 PM | Link to this

We went to see Curious Case of Benjamin Button tonight and it was sold out. Gonna watch The Visitor on DVD now instead. DOB

well I finally got around to popping some popcorn and watching Gran Torino on my old wide-screen. I think its a pretty good movie but a step below his last few maybe. He has an amazing body of work in his older years, both as an actor and especially a director. Whoda thunk Rowdy Yates woulda come so far? The guy’s first role with an actual name was in a Francis the Talking Mule movie. Course I loved Francis when I was 8 or so.

By SCRusty

January 23, 2009 10:46 PM | Link to this

It was great to read that Chipper wants to finish his career as a Brave, especially after his rants on the Smoltz fiasco. But then again, who can blame him. Nearly everyone was speaking more on emotions on that one.

Once again, his love of the game and the team take precedence over money. He’s only asking for a three year deal. Well Mr. Wren, get on the stick with this one. And offer him the good bucks, he’s worth it. I can’t think of anyone who’d make a better player-coach than Chipper. Lord knows we need someone who can teach these guys to hit!

By Lew

January 23, 2009 10:46 PM | Link to this

Best all time is Man Who Would Be King-Great John Huston movie and the best performances by Sean Connery and Michael Caine. Also got to include the Godfather Saga, Usual Suspects, Primal Fear (Edward Norton was unbelievably excellent and scary as all hell), Adventures of Robin Hood with Erroll Flynn and Basil Rathbone, African Queen with Bogart and Hepburn, The Departed, Excalibur (just because it’s a great story and an Epic), Shenandoah with Jimmy Stewart and Blade Runner (maybe the best sci fi movie of all time). It’s still a bit early, but The Illusionist may rate a place on the list-have to watch it another 10-15 times to make sure.

By Coach (Skip and Pete will be missed)

January 23, 2009 10:48 PM | Link to this

Yep, Long Gone is an excellent baseball flick that most have probably never seen. It was made for TV, which is why the film hasn’t been widely viewed.

Bang the Drum slowly (1973) is another fine baseball flick. Robert De Niro stars in it as the team’s catcher who is slowly dying from a terminal illness and playing his last season of baseball.

My two favorite baseball movie lines: Field of Dreams and Bull Durham.

Shoeless Joe: Is this Heaven?

Ray Kinsella: It’s Iowa.

Shoeless Joe: Iowa, I could have sworn this was Heaven.

Crash Davis talking to Nuke Laloosh: I’m Crash Davis, I’m your new catcher and you just got lesson number one. Don’t think, You can only hurt the ball club.

By Frank

January 23, 2009 10:49 PM | Link to this

By David O’Brien

January 23, 2009 9:52 PM

Chief Nock: We’ll talk about the movies we feel like talking about, not the ones you deem acceptable to talk about. No offense.

And if I’m gonna talk about a baseball movie, I’d start with Bull Durham

DOB

if you start with Bull Durham, I will keep it going with…..Major League 1 AND 2. Not too hip with MJ 3 with the guy from Quantum Leap. MJ 1 is still the best altho 2 is good. I still drool over the tall blonde who plays Charlie Sheen’s agent (Flannery) in 2.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 23, 2009 10:57 PM | Link to this

Greatest movies of all time…

FLETCH.

By nolie

January 23, 2009 11:03 PM | Link to this

I still drool over the tall blonde who plays Charlie Sheen’s agent (Flannery) in 2. Frank**

that would be Alison Doody I do believe. No relation to Howdy (Dowdy) as far as I know

By Salty Dawg

January 23, 2009 11:04 PM | Link to this

Top 10 movies of all time? Wow, that’s a tough one. I’ll throw out some of my favorites, but I really can’t really give a true top 10 without spending way too much time thinking about it.

In no particular order…

The Big Lebowski

Raising Arizona

The Jerk

Cinderella Man

Gladiator

Goodfellas

The Godfather I

As Good as it Gets

Airplane

A Few Good Men

Beverly Hills Cop I

For the Love of the Game (awesome baseball movie)

Cool Hand Luke

The Shining

Silence of the Lambs

The Usual Suspects

Fight Club

Saving Private Ryan

To Kill a Mockingbird

Trainspotting

The Karate Kid (come on, you can admit you like it)

Too many others to mention. I guess I really like movies.

By Roman Gal

January 23, 2009 11:21 PM | Link to this

Bull Durham is such a guy movie.

I decided to watch it over the summer when I saw a bunch of folks on here talking about it. Yikes…is all I can say about that one.

By nolie

January 23, 2009 11:23 PM | Link to this

Too many others to mention. I guess I really like movies. Salty Dawg

yeah me too. No way I could pick a top 20 let alone a top 10. most of the ones that everyone has mentioned are very watchable. Some days I do think that Casablanca is my fave, but other days it’s likely to be some other one. perhaps Jaws, The Return Of The King,or Ride The High Country. The one thing I do know is that Westerns are my favorite genre followed by old film noir.

By Salty Dawg

January 23, 2009 11:33 PM | Link to this

Najah-

Yeah, Fletch is definitely a good one. Another I can’t believe I forgot is No Country for Old Men. Fairly new movie, but definitely gets my nod for one of the better movies I’ve ever seen. Great acting all around.

By uga-brave

January 23, 2009 11:34 PM | Link to this

braveheart,

you know i am a fan but i think you went off the reservation.

you might be out in the cold.

By uga-brave

January 23, 2009 11:47 PM | Link to this

how about paul newman movies,

slapshot

butch cassidy and the sundance kid, which should be in everyones top ten.

road to perdition. great movie.

nobody’s fool. jessica tandy’s last role.

cool hand luke. enough said.

add in there are many more?

By Ralph Vader

January 23, 2009 11:54 PM | Link to this

I propose a toast to all of the folks who list any “Star Wars” movie on their Top 10 list:

Here’s to another year of virginity!

By uga-brave

January 24, 2009 12:04 AM | Link to this

movies,

pulp fiction

good will hunting

goodfellas

braveheart, which no else seems to like.

toombstone, great one liners.

casablanca, a classic.

jaws, made me look down in the ocean when i learned to surf in new smyrna beach.

usual suspects.

forest gump.

animal house, sorry n8 and bravey.

gladiator, beacuse crowe was made to play maximus.

and last but not least ROCKY.

was about 10 when i saw it in the theatre and the fight scenes and the music score was over the top.

conti who wrote the music for the movie, half made it.

a very enduring movie and the music is second to none.

chime in?

By Wayne in Utah

January 24, 2009 12:10 AM | Link to this

Bridge on the River Kwai

The Hanging Tree

The Dirty Dozen

Kelly’s Heroes (don’t give me them negative waves!)

American Graffiti

Talladega Nights

just a few of my favorites…..

By Last American Virgin

January 24, 2009 12:13 AM | Link to this

I propose a toast to all of the folks who list any “Star Wars” movie on their Top 10 list:

Here’s to another year of virginity! Ralph Vader

Yeah but Princess Leia was sooo hot in that skimpy little costume while strangling Jabba, that the memory will live with me forever,

By Mike

January 24, 2009 12:14 AM | Link to this

Top 10 movies…..(no particular order)

Braveheart

LOTR (i know…i’m a dork)

The Dark Knight

Band of Brothers (not really a movie, but an HBO series, but still worth mentioning)

300

Hotel Rwanda

Cannonball Run

The Matrix Trilogy

Blackhawk Down

Wyatt Earp

By nolie

January 24, 2009 12:16 AM | Link to this

UGA

I like every one you mentioned except Forrest Gump.

By uga-brave

January 24, 2009 12:21 AM | Link to this

on to baseball,

the braves have a puncher’s chance with this rotation.

not a shut down type, but they will pitch innings.

i think vasquez will thrive under cox, really do.

i think he will feel comfortable. no more new york, no more ozzie pressure.

think jarret wright, oh by the way where did he go after atlanta.

i know there are plenty of cox detractors out there, never got it.

ortiz, wright, holmes, remlinger, millwood, thompson, pete smith, etc.

they all thrived here under cox. i know leo was still around.

but to a man, they all loved cox.

cox is old school keeps it behind closed doors.

never calls his players out. players appreciate that.

that said he has had his share of idiots.

marquiss, odalis perez, kyle davies, wickman, among others that never bought in. those were just the pitchers.

By dogsbrekky

January 24, 2009 12:29 AM | Link to this

God I forgot so many movies on my top 10 list after looking at others lists, like Unforgiven (fav western), Usual Suspects, Braveheart, The Big lebowski (gotta love Jeff Bridges) and a dozen others, I could have a top 50…

Tonight, we saw Yes Man (Jim Carrey) and both loved it, kind of childish but very funny

and then backed up with Revolutionary Road (acting is great) and it reminded me of my own marital problems when I was separating/divorcing 6 years ago…….

[To the other “The Castle” fan, both movies I saw tonight were so good they’re both going “straight to the pool room” ….]

PS Word in New York is no Manny for either team..

Hope we extend Chipper, love th guy to death

“PARTY ON WAYNE”

By TheManMike

January 24, 2009 12:33 AM | Link to this

Joe versus the Volcano.

Damn what a good movie that was. Its what made me love Crush soda and Meg Ryan.

By nolie

January 24, 2009 12:35 AM | Link to this

The Hanging Tree Wayne

there’s a good old western. George Scott’s first movie role and he pretty much nailed it

By uga-brave

January 24, 2009 12:36 AM | Link to this

mike,

no doubt. black hawk down was a great flick.

as a previous blogger said, i loved private ryan.

a friend of mine has theatre in his basement and after poker, we would crank up private ryan.

the opening scene in suround sound is numbing.

so is the whole movie. probably tom sizmore’s last meaningful role.

sizmore was great in that role. also good in HEAT, and TRUE ROMANCE.

By uga-brave

January 24, 2009 12:42 AM | Link to this

paul newman,

shoot pool fast eddie.

who could of forgot jackie gleason and newman in the HUSTLER.

newman was also great in the color of money.

stole the show from cruise. cruise never stood a chance.

By glove51

January 24, 2009 12:43 AM | Link to this

A few of my favorties, in no particular order:

One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest Dr. Strangelove The Godfather Paths of Glory The Searchers The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance The Treasure of the Sierra Madre Rear Window Young Frankenstein In the Line of Fire Annie Hall This is Spinal Tap The Great Santini The Sting Groundhog Day Lost in Translation The Grifters Patton Raiders of the Lost Ark Jaws Tombstone Batman Begins The Dark Knight High Fidelity Slundog Millionaire Thank You For Smoking Being There

By uga-brave

January 24, 2009 12:49 AM | Link to this

anyone else see “ride with the devil,”

ang lee’s flick about the bushwhackers?

damn good flick. this was before toby beacame peter parker.

as for westerns, good the bad and the ugly, outlaw josey whales (favorite) and tombstone, val kilmer as doc holiday is a late night favorite.

barber proceed.

By flange1

January 24, 2009 12:49 AM | Link to this

Braveheart,

As per your 6:49, I agree. No offense with me, I see where you are coming from.

UGA, u still up?

By uga-brave

January 24, 2009 12:58 AM | Link to this

glove51,

great call on cuckoo’s nest.

as for high fidelity, i always imagined our crusading everyday guy as cusack.

sorry DOB, still imagine you as the guy behind the counter at the wuxtry in athens.

you are somewhat, how do i say it a encylopedia.

By richbrave

January 24, 2009 12:58 AM | Link to this

Stripes Predator Unforgiven Million Dollar Baby Pulp Fiction Res Dogs Hombre Wild Bunch Michael Clayton Bullitt

By uga-brave

January 24, 2009 1:01 AM | Link to this

what up flange?

whats new?

i say we go up to oddysey and have a beer.

By dogsbrekky

January 24, 2009 1:01 AM | Link to this

uga-brave - I watched an old Paul Newman flick with the g/f the other night (I forget names often due to a past cancer bout) but it was the one where he plays a drunken attorney and fights a big case… I think it is the Verdict ??……. awesome acting and great movie

By uga-brave

January 24, 2009 1:04 AM | Link to this

flange,

you and i probably walked a lot of the same turf in athens.

By uga-brave

January 24, 2009 1:17 AM | Link to this

flange,

yeah i am still up. trying to figure out to get my buddy john thain out of trouble LOL.

hate that lol thing.

the sense of entitlement that goes on with these idiots is mindnumbig.

thain is a ex golman sachs guy. dont you think you have enough already.

1.4 mililion to decorate your office?

above reproach these guys are. you know why?

because the finra, sec, etc. does not like looking at there own kellog, wharton, hbs, fuqua, kind of guys.

By flange1

January 24, 2009 1:21 AM | Link to this

uga, a beer at Odessy would be a great end to this evening….

Good supper, BIG birthday and a nice 91 opus 1.

Life is good! So is Jason!

EP is grooving right now!

By David O'Brien

January 24, 2009 1:22 AM | Link to this

No way I could do my top 10 movies, just as I couldn’t do a Top 10 albums. For that matter, I couldn’t do a top 25 in either.

Here’s a whole bunch of my favorites. Not saying they’re the best movies ever made, just saying they’re a bunch of my favorites: Godfather I & II; Goodfellas; Taxi Driver; The Big Lebowski; Raising Arizona; King of New York; Casino; Full Metal Jacket; The Shining; The Fly; One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest; No Country for Old Men; Pulp Fiction; Fast Times at Ridgemont High; Dirty Harry; Goldfinger; Training Day; The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly; The Departed; Saturday Night Fever; There Will Be Blood; Raging Bull; Chinatown; Once Upon A Time in America; Butch Cassidy & The Sundance Kid; Animal House; Five Easy Pieces; Blue Velvet; Miller’s Crossing; Vacation; Cool Hand Luke; Shaft (the original, of course); Rocky; Bullitt; Die Hard; To Kill A Mockingbird; The Deer Hunter; The Road Warrior; Diner; The Pope of Greenwich Village; Easy Rider; Bull Durham; Brian’s Song; Elephant Man; Jaws; Reservoir Dogs; Psycho; The Usual Suspects; Scarface (the remake, with Pacino); The Shawshank Redemption; Slap Shot; A Few Good Men; Body Heat; The Silence of the Lambs; The Exorcist; The Omen (original, not cheesy remake); True Romance; Purple Rain; Barton Fink.

By flange1

January 24, 2009 1:24 AM | Link to this

uga, dude, glad u r still up!

50 today!!!

Yeah, we traveled the same paths!

At school and career.

Except I am way to stupid to get married!!!

By uga-brave

January 24, 2009 1:24 AM | Link to this

dogsbekky,

the verdict was a very good movie.

newman did so many. hope all is well.

By Mike

January 24, 2009 1:25 AM | Link to this

UGA Brave….

Siezmore was also good in Blackhawk Down. And if you liked Ryan, then check out Band of Brothers. Also done by Hanks and Spielberg. Same look and realistic feel to the WW II period. Excellent series! It was about 8 or 9 2 hr episodes that was on HBO. Just incredible.

By flange1

January 24, 2009 1:30 AM | Link to this

DOB,

Impaired right now, but your list of flicks is op notch…

I will try to add to your list, but later…..

By Wayne in Utah

January 24, 2009 1:36 AM | Link to this

The problem with trying to name top ten lists of favorite movies, is that there are so many. I start reading some posts and say, “Yeah, that belongs on my top ten too.” Now, my top ten is around 50+ movies long.

Loved Patton. And I really liked a lot of corny ones too.

uga Next time you are out this way, give me some advance notice, and maybe we can put a face and name together….

As far as the Braves go, I really hope we get Ohman back on board soon. Andruw intrigues me, but I am fearful that he will be just barely good enough, and might get in the way of Schafer. I just don’t see 2009 being our year to shine, although as uga states, we quite possibly will be in a lot of games. It could go either way.

I don’t see us shoring up the outfield any time real soon, although a lot of that will be determined be the motivation of the remaining free agents, or possible the motivation of a trade partner (Chi-Sox, Cards, Yanks, etc.)

I know it’s an extreme long shot, but wouldn’t it be awesome of Schafer, Hanson and Heyward just kicked asky in the spring, and made it hard for the Braves to send them down. I know that when Andruw was a rookie he had a bit more minor league exposure than Heyward has so far, but not much more…

By uga-brave

January 24, 2009 1:38 AM | Link to this

flange,

happy 50. so you were before herschel? or at or around #34.

my brother, i lived at 320 south lumpkin street. directly across from the gilbert health center and brooks hall.

as for the married part i made it to 40’s.

cant complain just got back from utah. the wife is a huge sports fan.

By uga-brave

January 24, 2009 1:47 AM | Link to this

mike,

got it on dvd. i shed a tear at the end of band of brothers.

generation kill was good, but got somewhat political at the end.

band of brothers precursed the days of 24 hour media when we all felt proud of what our country was doing.

that feeling and vibe about the greatest generation will never come back.

By Wayne in Utah

January 24, 2009 1:50 AM | Link to this

You folks are forgetting one of the all time favorite movies…..”Xanadu”

Jeez, flange, your getting to be an old man! Gotcha by about 3.5 years though.

My boys gave me a kitty kat for my 50th. I am not a big cat person (they needed an excuse to get a kitty). The darn cat took to me, and he is one of my best buds. A real killer too. Likes to show off his kills on the back deck….mice, birds, squirrels, etc.

Can’t believe you folks would forget Xanadu.

How about some good “car” movies?

Bullitt, French Connection, Gumball Rally, Vanishing Point, Dirty Mary/Crazy Larry, American Graffiti…..gotta be some others I am missing.

What was that movie with James Taylor and ??? They were driving around in a 1955 Chevy race car?

Like the dude’s car in “Burn Notice” too.

And who could forget ole Burt in “Smokey and the Bandit” (RIP Jerry Reed) “Time to go throw some groceries down my neck!”

By nolie

January 24, 2009 1:50 AM | Link to this

DOB

which version of The Fly? I’m guessing the remake? Good list.Barton Fink is the only one that I am not all that fond of. Pope of Greenwich Village is very high on my list.

By uga-brave

January 24, 2009 1:52 AM | Link to this

wayne,

why all the negative vibes. loved kelly’s heros.

oddball, donald sutherland. don rickles, hustler.

great movie.

By flange1

January 24, 2009 1:57 AM | Link to this

uga,

No, I had too much fun at UGA and was there for Hershel +_

Had to have some S UGA in 81 and 82…… SUPER DOME ROCKS..

Or at least it did then…

Saw every Hershel game in Athens…Mostly on the tracks..

Congrats on the Marriage, could never find someone who was dumb enough to want to hang with me “forever..”

I do miss managing money…

By flange1

January 24, 2009 1:59 AM | Link to this

Nolie,

Agree, not a fan of Barton Fink….

By uga-brave

January 24, 2009 2:01 AM | Link to this

wayne,

car chases, besides the french connection.

one word ronnin. check it out. great diniro flick circa 1998.

By Wayne in Utah

January 24, 2009 2:04 AM | Link to this

In 1974 and 1975, I was at Keesler AFB, in training for about 9 months. None of my close friends had a car (there were very few who had a ride in those days), so we had to get our entertainment on the base, and the theatre and the bowling alley were the hot spots.

I remember one week, we decided to go to every movie that was shown that week (they would show something different every night). We saw 11 different movies that week. The evening movie for all 7 days, the matinees on Saturday and Sunday, and the late shows on Friday and Saturday.

We were standing in the line, waiting to go into one of the flicks, when none of us (5-6 of us total) could remember what movie we were going to see.

I remember a lot of Bruce Lee flicks back then.

By David O'Brien

January 24, 2009 2:05 AM | Link to this

Nolie, yes, the remake directed by Cronenberg, with Jeff Goldblum. Great flick.

By David O'Brien

January 24, 2009 2:07 AM | Link to this

Wayne, I’ve got Vanishing Point, French Connection and yes, Dirty Mary/Crazy Larry, all on DVD. Love those 70s-era chase movies (though French Connection was far more than that — it should’ve been on my list, forgot about that one.)

Vanishing Point’s awesome. Love the blind DJ talking to Kowalski over the radio throughout the long chase….

By mitchie-san

January 24, 2009 2:13 AM | Link to this

I was staioned at Keesler AFB twice for school over the past 5 years or so. Pre Katrina and Post Katrina. I mainly spent time at the casinos while I was there….

By uga-brave

January 24, 2009 2:15 AM | Link to this

flange,

those two teams from penn, pitt in 81 & penn state in 82.

though we did take out the catholics in 80.

i am jealous. went many times to sanford with sugar in my pockets.

fall of 85 i saw bo jackson run all over us.

we had no east or west. we did have lars tate, tim worley, and keith henderson.

been on many bulldog trips.

nothing rivaled my trip to tempe this football season.

flange, you would of been proud there was at least 20,000 dawgs in sun devil stadium.

they brought out sparky, and we sent knowshon out on the 30 yardline by himself.

he just stood there and looked at the asu endzone and turned around and looked at the team and brought them out.

chill bumps.

going to stillwater to see the opener.

By Chop Chop

January 24, 2009 2:16 AM | Link to this

DOB,

I’m not saying I saw a bootleg copy of “The Wrestler.” All I’m gonna say is that the version I saw has Dutch subtitles. They don’t get in the way during the strip club scenes, though. The Dutch are real pros.

Here’s an off-the-top-of-my-head Top 10 movie list:

Apocalypse Now

The Godfather, Part II

Casino

The Great Escape

Fargo

Shawshank Redemption

The Deer Hunter

Unforgiven

Pulp Fiction

High Plains Drifter

By uga-brave

January 24, 2009 2:21 AM | Link to this

dob,

no fargo?

always tought kyle macy being dragged out was a powerful scene.

as for scenes name one in pulp fiction you did not enjoy?

it was a movie that you had to watch a couple of times to really get or understand, but it stands somewhat without a peer.

By Wayne in Utah

January 24, 2009 2:26 AM | Link to this

Mitchie My son was there from January of 2007 through June of 2007. Those new barracks are nice, nothing like the old “H” shaped ones in the triangle in my days.

Also, no casinos’s in 1975!

The beach was still a wreck from Camille in 1969 though.

Dave That’s the problem w/ movies, too many….

It was “Two Lane Blacktop”, w/ James Taylor and Dennnis Wilson. Worth a look. Loved the “Goat” in that movie too!

By BosnianBaller

January 24, 2009 2:53 AM | Link to this

How come nobody mentioned Gladiator w/the greatest actor of the decade russell crowe

By winterville

January 24, 2009 2:54 AM | Link to this

I can’t believe no one has A Time To Kill on their list. “Yes they deserved to die and I hope they burn in hell!!” Great movie.

By ccrider

January 24, 2009 2:55 AM | Link to this

Like Dave culling 10 movies over 50 years of watching is impossible, but 10 movies I can’t help but watch when on the tube or just during down time because I either connect to them or they just make me feel better: High Noon, It’s a Wonderful Life, Boondock Saints, Field of Dreams, Gladiator, Young Frankenstein, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, V for Vendetta, O’ Brother Where Art Thou, Lake Placid. Old/New, Fantasy/Reality, Vengeful/Sentimental, Violent/Serene, when you study your own list it makes you wonder if you may be schizophenic. NO IT DOESN’T/yes it does!

By brent a.

January 24, 2009 2:55 AM | Link to this

Powell, 44, was the first baby to be born at Grady Hospital in 1965 and attended old Spring Street Elementary School before his family moved to Roswell. He had his first play-by-play job covering University of Georgia baseball in 1985-86, while he was a student there. But he had been a student of the craft long before that.

I thought the part about Grady Hospital was an interesting tidbit.

By Wayne in Utah

January 24, 2009 2:59 AM | Link to this

Too many good movies….. I guess you can never get too much of a good thing??

Nite folks (as he drifts off to sleep remembering the sounds of the 1968 Mustang GT-390 in Bullitt)

By BlawgDawg

January 24, 2009 3:00 AM | Link to this

OK, some of my favorites in no particular order…

Godfather 1 & 2

Shawshank Redemption

Saving Private Ryan

Goodfellas

Scarface

The Departed

Pulp Fiction

Braveheart

Andersonville

Gangs of New York

Menace 2 Society

Dazed and Confused

Unforgiven

By uga-brave

January 24, 2009 3:10 AM | Link to this

dazed and confused,

alright, alright.

they keep getting well you know.

By Bring Me the Head of Francisco Cabrera

January 24, 2009 4:44 AM | Link to this

DOB, do you realize there’s not a single movie made before 1960 on your exceedingly long list of favorites? There’s a lot of GREAT movies, mind you, but no Bogart? No Cagney? No Robert Mitchum or Kirk Douglas? No Cary Grant or Joseph Cotten or James Stewart or Henry Fonda? No Duke? No Capra or Chaplin or Keaton or Ford or Hawks or Welles or Wilder? And only ONE Hitchcock (I assume you’re talking about the original “Psycho”)?

Ever seen “The Third Man”? “White Heat”? “Casablanca”? “Citizen Kane”? “Twelve Angry Men”? “The Searchers”? “Red River”? “Double Indemnity”? “City Lights”? “Modern Times”? “The Night of the Hunter”? “Shadow of a Doubt”? “North by Northwest”? “The Treasure of the Sierra Madre”? “Out of the Past”? “It Happened One Night”? “The Grapes of Wrath”? You’re a reporter — seen “Ace in the Hole”?

Not to mention you’ve listed no foreign films. And what exactly have all you people got against the once-great Woody Allen?

Explain yourself.

As to post-1960 films, what’s your take on “The Hustler,” “The Wild Bunch” and “The Last Picture Show”? They’re all near the top of my list.

By Tomahawkin

January 24, 2009 5:37 AM | Link to this

D.O.B. I read your page daily ( I don’t post often unless its necessary) but are what are your favorite Party Jams/Slow Jams…? You wanna suprise me, lol…

AAnd It kinda pi…es me off that braves fans give you heat, taking out the frustration on the F.O. and the team 4 that matter…

Oh yea I’m suprised that you don get caught up with Niptuck series….That show freaks me the F out…

Listening to some old Pharcyde (Passing me by Remix) And Watching Old New York Undercover on Youtube, Did You ever watch that show (1994-98)…? If so How Did it rate on your scale…?

By fansince66

January 24, 2009 6:48 AM | Link to this

I saw True Grit the other night and forgot how good it was. No one has mentioned Jeremiah Johnson, I could watch it over and over, Quigley Down Under is another good one, Toombstone, Clint’s spaghetti westerns esp The Good bad and Ugly, Hud, (anything with Paul Newman), Liberty Valence, The Untouchables, Dances with Wolves, and anything with Steve McQueen.
How about the sappiest of all time with Titanic, Love Story, and The Way We Were? The Braves should be very competitive this year. I hope they go with the young guys in the OF.

By Runnin

January 24, 2009 7:02 AM | Link to this

Here’s 10 in no order.

Unforgiven

Tough Guys Don’t Dance

Scarface(Pachino)

Cape Fear (DeNiro/Nolte)

Tootsie

Dr. Zhivago

True Grit

One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest

The Dresser

The Band’s The Last Waltz

**I purposely left off The Godfather, which should be on the list. I’m just a little tired of that genre.

By JasonInFL (Formerly ME)

January 24, 2009 7:12 AM | Link to this

DOB, very solid list of movies…we share a similar taste regarding the big screen it seems…

By ncgary

January 24, 2009 7:14 AM | Link to this

not a single vote for blazing saddles? big chill was a great one too , glad someone came up with dirty mary crazy larry. what about all the hitchcock thrillers. the birds is gotta be there. not a favorite but gone woth the wind has to be there for someone.

By Bill M.

January 24, 2009 7:45 AM | Link to this

No to Sutton and Andruw. Yes to Chipper but for only two years.

By ncgary

January 24, 2009 7:46 AM | Link to this

and we all forgot old yeller. now come on how can you leave off that one. lol

By dap01

January 24, 2009 8:00 AM | Link to this

I was hoping to read about the Braves in this blog this morning. DOB, you are the best at covering the Braves, can we have a Braves blog and an “all other blog”?

Just kidding, looking forward to the next news about the Braves!

By ncgary

January 24, 2009 8:08 AM | Link to this

chipper? why not 2 for 22 with a 14 million option based on 1000 plate appearances. come on hes worth that in marketing alone

By joe fan

January 24, 2009 8:11 AM | Link to this

a few of my favorites…

Sophie Scholl —> absolutely amazing!

Donnie Darko

Kill Bill

Lord of the Rings Trilogy

There Will be Blood

Cool Hand Luke

Il Nuovo Cinema Paradiso

Tsosti

Ameres Perros

Hotel Rwanda

Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon

Pride and Prejudice

By 18 Wheels of Love

January 24, 2009 8:36 AM | Link to this

Funny tidbit about Shawshank….it pretty much tanked at the box office and didn’t gain the popularity it has today until it was out on DVD. Probably all those TBS reruns that helped people realize what a great movie it is.

My favorite line from the movie: “Get busy living, or get busy dying. GD right.”

As far as picking a top 10, I don’t think I could do that. I love a lot of movies, but when they reach that top echelon, they all sort of blend together with me. My litmus test for my favorite movies is 2 fold - if I own the DVD or if I would stop and watch it on TV while channel surfing.

Here are some I enjoy:

The Endless Summer, Godfather 1&2, Goodfellas, Close Encounters, All the President’s Men, Jaws, Vacation, Elf, Apocolypse Now, Caddyshack, Zoolander, Lord of the Rings, Empire and SW, Finding Nemo, Raiders, Dazed and Confused, Field of Dream, Bull Durham, Breakfast Club, Step Brothers, American Graffiti, Leaving Las Vegas, Slingblade, Goonies, Cannonball Run, Max Dugan Returns, The American President, ET, Hustle & Flow, Lost in Translation, & The Secret Life of Bees.

By BravesAC

January 24, 2009 8:39 AM | Link to this

What a bunch of great movie lists. After reading others I’m amazed I forgot High Noon, Gladiator, Braveheart, La Confidential, Chinatown, Great Escape, Major League (Bob Ueuker (sp?) couldn’t have been more funny…”Just a little outside…”), Field of Dreams, and THE MAGNFICENT SEVEN! How could we have forgotten that? Road to Perdition was on tonight and Hanks was great. How about Hanks and Candy in Splash? (What’s a matter? You guys never saw a guy who slept with a fish before?”) I still say “Not in front of the Teamsters” to my wife all the time. Bill Murray in Groundhog Day…

Bubdylan I totally agree on the Notebook…crap!I won’t even let my wife bring the book in the room, lol. And I’ll trump you on the inner girl list - To Sir With Love….had a thing for Judy Geeson for years. You know Judy Geeson or Lulu was the original Ginger/ Mary Anne question - good girl/bad girl question! And the best part of Immortal Beloved for me was that a guy (Gary Oldman) can totally get something wrong his whole life - that we can be so sure sometimes and yet so totally wrong (you know, like Andruw being convinced he always has to pull!) It changed how I look at things…maybe not so black and white anymore (and with two sons in Iraq it helps). That’s what a great movie foes…it splits your gut laughing or it makes you think. There was this Peter Sellers movie about him being a simple gardener who watched tv all the time and somehow he gets pulled into the white House because he’s a president look alike. He has to deal with a bunch of White Houses crises and as he’s bombarded with them he just hits an imaginary remote to “turn the crisis off”. It was a real powerful scene…and I was going through my divorce at the time and I had just done that exact same act…so for just that little bit that writer of the movie and I shared a “been there, done that” that’s a kind of affirmation of I’ve been there too, you’re not alone.

And since this is supposed to be Braves blog - Anderson in center to start the year, let Shafer play in Gwinnett. I honestly thought the Braves were better with Anderson in the lineup at the end of the year.

By used cars

January 24, 2009 8:45 AM | Link to this

While we are ranking movies…what’s your favorite movie about the gunfight at the ok corral..I grew up loving Lancaster, Kirk Douglas and a young Dennis Hopper in The Gunfight at the OK Corral…Now after watching most of the others (let me know if I miss one) I rank them like this.

Hour of the Gun (one of my favorite James Garner roles) Toombstone (Val Kilmer should have won the Oscar for best supporting actor) Gunfight at the OK Corral My Darling Clementine (hven’t seen this one with Henry Fonda in a long time) Wyatt Earp (Open Range and Silverado are my favorite Kevin Costner westerns and ones that are definitely underrated)

My favorite westerns would be The Josey Wales (more quotable lines than any other Eastwood flick) The Searchers Butch and Sundance Silverado Pale Rider Open Range I thought in the context of things that Apaloosa was an enjoyable movie..Unfortunately it’s a genre that has passed.

When was our new announcer born in 1965 at Grady…was the hospital just opened or was he born on Jan. 1….Just curious because I just found out recently that I was born at Grady and that was in Feb. 1965

By Yars

January 24, 2009 8:49 AM | Link to this

I see Saving Pvt. Ryan is on many top 10 list, same with Apocalypse Now. Two of the best war films. frank……Major League 3 (back to the minors) is the finniest of the 3, in my opinion. najeh…..Fletch is classic Chevy Chase. One of his best performances. He was on a roll back then with Caddyshack, the first 2 Vacation flicks, Spies Like Us… saltydawg……Trainspotting & Fight Club are on my top 10 list. Never get tired of seeing those 2 flicks. Comedy, drama, violence, adventure all in one. wayneinutah…….Talladega Nights is hilarious. One of Will Ferrell’s best performanes. I also liked him in Anchorman. mike…..Cannonball Run jeez…I haven’t seen that film in over 15 years. A very funny film. glove51…..man, I still laugh my bottom off everytime I see Spinal Tap. Still hilarious, even after seeing it 50-60 times. High Fidelity is good. The best scenes are the ones in the record store, with Cusack & Jack Black. I like the scene with those 2 & Tim Robbins. DOB…..True Romance what a great film that is. Haven’t seen that one in ages. Gonna have to see that one again. It’s probably been about 10 years.

By Cal

January 24, 2009 8:55 AM | Link to this

Looks like the radio booth will once again be head and shoulders above the TV announcers. Too bad my satellite is about 5 seconds behind the radio call or I’d give Goob and Mr. Excitement the permanent mute.

By i cant take it anymore

January 24, 2009 8:56 AM | Link to this

some of mine in random order: big lebowski; eternal sunshine of the spotless mind; sideways; pulp fiction; annie hall, the dark knight; goodfellas; casino; L.A. Story; army of darkness; the dancing outlaw (if you haven’t seen it, then you are missing out) rushmore;, cinderella man; what about bob;being john malkovich; shawshank redemption; life of bryan; natonal lampoons christmas vacation; alien; its pimpin, pimpin; crash; magnolia; the shining; coming to america; ghostbusters; forrest gump (dont hate)

By Steve McP

January 24, 2009 8:58 AM | Link to this

IN the comedies surprised to see no love for Python? What about Holy Grail and Life of Brian?

Woody Allen also doesn’t seem to get in, Annie Hall was great, but my favourite of his was the Sleeper.

Finally for the Brits out there the original Italian Job with Michael Caine should be on anybody’s list.

By Diamondback.Mac

January 24, 2009 9:08 AM | Link to this

No one ever mentions the great Bogart comedy: the original “We’re No Angels” with Aldo Ray and Peter Ustinov

By Yars

January 24, 2009 9:11 AM | Link to this

Favorites include: (in no particular order)

Best In Show

Sideways

Road House

Heathers

Top Secret

Fight Club

Trainspotting

Old School

Apocalypse Now

Saving Pvt Ryan

Bad Santa

Young Guns

Suburbia

Rounders

Bourne Ultimatum

Lost Boys

Tenacious D - Pick of Destiny

The Foot Fist Way

By Random

January 24, 2009 9:30 AM | Link to this

brian: “Rolf - Chipper is already in the Hall. Everything else is padding the stats and will push him towards first ballot hall of famer. A productive 3 year extension with the Braves back in the playoffs will really push Chipper to 1st ballot. Compare him to switch hitters and even to 3B. Very few can compare to Chipper.”

Agreed.

There’s a nice recent appreciation of Chipper in Comments on The SABR Baseball List and Record Book, Part 2 by Tom Stone of Seamhead.com.

Excerpt:

“Take a look at Chipper’s complete statistical resume. It is quite impressive: 408 HR, 1,374 RBI, 1,378 R, .310 BA, .408 OBP, .548 SLG. He took home the MVP in 1999, and has been an all-star six times (which seems a bit low to me). More of a “gray-ink” hitter than a “black-ink” hitter, Chipper hasn’t often led the NL in key offensive categories, but he has often been amongst the leaders. That said, he took home his first batting title last year when hit .364 in 439 at-bats. He had a little speed in his youth, and was a smart runner as in 1996 he had 14 SB vs. 1 CS and then in 1999 he had 25 SB vs. 3 CS. From 1996-2003 he had 100+ RBIs — that is 8 consecutive seasons!”

By GB

January 24, 2009 9:35 AM | Link to this

Lonesome Dove is the best movie eve made! O Brother Where Art Thou very close.

By dogsbrekky

January 24, 2009 10:03 AM | Link to this

“Saving Private Ryan” - I saw the premier (Australian) in a theatre full of ex diggers (Aussie soldiers)… I have never heard so much crying from grown men, they say it WAS SO relaistic…

FLANGE - Happy 50th and well done on the Opus 1, must be almost a $1k gorilla in a restaurant by now, great wine…

Last night I dvr’d “The Pope of Greenwich Village” great flick…

“Party on Wayne”

By TommyP

January 24, 2009 10:08 AM | Link to this

Read where the Nationals are looking for FA bats but not pitching. They’re content with a rotation of Collin Balester, Daniel Cabrera, John Lannan, Scott Olsen and Jordan Zimmermann.

Yeah…that’s a rotation that Adam Dunn looks upon and says, “I think if I sign we’d have a shot.”

Noticed nobody included The Sixth Sense in their favorites. A bit shocking…

By Jeff R

January 24, 2009 10:10 AM | Link to this

Flicks… How about Bullit (the late, great Steve McQueen)… The Sand Pebbles (McQueen, again)… The Good, the Bad and the Ugly (Clint)… Patton (George C. Scott at his best)… Papillon (Hoffman & McQueen -yes, I’m a McQueen fan)… The Graduate (Hoffman)… Jacob’s Ladder… Dirty Harry… Lawrence of Arabia (brillant film by David Lean)… Sunset Boulevard (weird and brillant Billy Wilder)… to name a few.

By SCRusty

January 24, 2009 10:10 AM | Link to this

A few of my favorites that I don’t think have been mentioned: Little Big Man (One of Hoffman’s best) A Man Called Horse (“I’m not an animal! I’m a man!”) Police Squad (“Nice Beaver” still cracks me up) Young Frankenstein (“What knockers!” “Thank You Doctor”) Everything You Wanted To Know About Sex (Went with my older sister and a group of her friends to see this one. Never heard a group of housewifes LOL like that.) Woodstock (Am I dating myself with this list?) Frequency (Dennis Quaid thriller from a few years back with a nice baseball sub plot involving the Miracle Mets.)

Speaking of baseball DOB—Any updates on Andruw (hope not), the Perm (Sutton), or a new outfielder?

By Nate In Maine

January 24, 2009 10:13 AM | Link to this

* Is it Freakin baseball season yet* I am freezing my butt off in Maine. Hey Braves fans how warm is it in Atlanta? Its about -5 degrees up hear in sanford maine.

By Frank Castellana, Jr.

January 24, 2009 10:14 AM | Link to this

PLEASE DO NOT BRING BACK (MOTOR MOUTH) DON IT’S ALL ABOUT ME SUTTON…… We need a new look and style..It is going to be hard enough waiting a couple of years waiting on this team to mature

By Dadgum

January 24, 2009 10:14 AM | Link to this

Wow, check in on the blog and it has turned into a movie critics haven. Carry on it is January after all.

As I have scrolled up to the wee-hours postings (do you people sleep?) most of you have solid movies posted. However, 1939 is regarded by almost every movie critic as the best year ever in the history of motion pictures. So I submit to the esteemed lists my pick as the best movie ever made-Gone With The Wind. If the world ended today and we were all allowed one movie to watch GWTW would be mine. It is easier to pick one than a top 10 or 20. You can bet that Animal House, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, Caddyshack, and Field of Dreams are in any of my lists.

Rock on…….by the way I predict that the world will not end today.

By Wayne in Utah

January 24, 2009 10:36 AM | Link to this

dogsbrekky (what does that mean?)

Yes, I will comply.

TommyP The Sixth Sense was indeed an awesome movie. Kept you thinking….

By Couch Tater

January 24, 2009 10:41 AM | Link to this

If anyone sees Annie Savoy, getta paya’ of those garters for all of our rightfielders so they won’t think at the plate.

flange Just ahead of you bro, buy a special guitar. You’re Dawgs and my Tide should have met in 80 or 81. Would have been a classic.

By used cars

January 24, 2009 10:43 AM | Link to this

Lonesome Dove is not a movie, but by far the greatest miniseries of all time, even better than then winds of war and roots…Chiefs (with investment guru Wayne Rogers and the late Brad Davis) hold a special place for being set and filmed in Georgia…any other miniseries thoughts and this far-ranging blog…

By KEITH MOON LIVES

January 24, 2009 10:46 AM | Link to this

Anyone have any love for The Pope OF Greenwich Village ? Eric Roberts best !

By jaglawyer

January 24, 2009 10:48 AM | Link to this

I haven’t seen Trading Places mentioned, which is a classic. Way too many lines to repeat. Here are some other off-the-wall favorites: Big Trouble in Little China; Adventures of Remo Williams (top 10 “B” movie, especially the scene with the guy running on water; Blue Thunder “J.A.F.O.”; Grosse Pointe Blank—“still exploiting the oppressed?; A Fish Called Wanda; Flash Gordon; Cannonball Run; The Hustler (shouldnt be in this grouping) and The Color of Money.

DOB—With FA prices seemingly falling every day that passes, and the rumors from Rosenthal about a possible trade idea involving Roberts, has there been any discussions or thougts about FA Orlando Hudson? Or are the Braves looking to trade for a 2B/power OF with the now surplus in pitching? He would be an upgrade defensively, is a good bat and KJ could move to LF. Thoughts?

By Bryan

January 24, 2009 10:52 AM | Link to this

Langoliers - bets mini-series featuring Bronson Alcott Pinchot

By McFann O –[zzz] (Braves Fann For Life)

January 24, 2009 10:55 AM | Link to this

Dang, I tried to come up with a Top Ten list of movies last night…But I keep thinking up more to add to the list.

No way I cann list them in order, and this will prob’ly be more than ten, but here goes:

1994 Angels in the Outfield

Because of Winn~Dixie

Cinderella (Disney cartoon version)

Facing the Giants

The Passion

Stalag 17

The Keys of the Kingdom

Fighting Sullivans (Oh…but the end of that one’s brutal.)

Sergeant York

Bells of St. Mary’s

National Treasure II: Book of Secrets

Sound of Music

It’s a Wonderful Life

That’s 13…mind you, I’ll prob’ly come up with more later.

By NRBQ

January 24, 2009 11:01 AM | Link to this

Three that aren’t getting love:

“Philadelphia”

“The Green Mile”

“Last Detail”

By Mike

January 24, 2009 11:06 AM | Link to this

uga brave…

Re: your 1:24 am post…I couldnt agree with you more. The pride and patriotism this country had during the greatest generation wont soon come again. I have always said if I could live in another generation, it would be that one. People just seemed to enjoy life more back then. But then we wouldnt have our Braves (Atlanta that is) to route for.

By bravesfanbob

January 24, 2009 11:06 AM | Link to this

I would love to have Don Sutton back. He is an outstanding broadcaster, and tells you a lot of stories involving him and players or coaches. But he sincerely needs to improve on one thing on the radio… He NEVER tells you the score until the half-inning ends, unless there is a run scored. When you are listening to the radio, it’s more likely that you’re listening for an inning or so, until you get to a place where you can watch it on TV. When you join, you probably don’t know the score. Let us know that little tidbit at least 3 times during a half-inning, Don, and the rest of your broadcasting talent may lead you to Cooperstown again.

By Wayne in Utah

January 24, 2009 11:07 AM | Link to this

McFann Kinda like what I (and many others) were saying, it’s really hard to list a top 10 when there are 100’s of excellent movies.

The Lord of the Rings trilogy was also excellent.

By Rhett

January 24, 2009 11:09 AM | Link to this

DOB - What did you think about ‘The Visitor’? Watched it On Demand a few months ago on a whim and was pleasantly surprised. Wonderfully acted (Richard Jenkins is deserving of his Oscar nom) and a pretty compelling storyline. I thought it dealt with many of the emotions surrounding a very controversial issue without coming across as too preachy.

By William

January 24, 2009 11:19 AM | Link to this

Man, what a terrible weekend for sports!!! Worst sports weekend of the year!!!!! Baseball can’t get here fast enough!!

By McFann O –[zzz] (Braves Fann For Life)

January 24, 2009 11:34 AM | Link to this

Wayne—

Exactly—just too many good ones.

Just thought of “Tale of Despereaux”, too…that movie was very good.

By dogsbrekky

January 24, 2009 11:47 AM | Link to this

Wayne in Utah

At the premiere of “Saving P Ryan” they invited a lot of WWII veterans, many of whom couldn’t handle the opening scene/s…

I found it very upsetting as well !

By Fred Secunda

January 24, 2009 11:56 AM | Link to this

DOB, your list is favorite movies is not very much different than mine. In fact, there were some on your list that I didn’t expect to see but glad to see you included them, like Body Heat. Old school noir and a very sexy Kathleen Turner. Nice.

Here’s one for you: 2 Days in the Valley. I’m sure you’ve seen it, but if you haven’t it’s worth a rental. James Spader, Jeff Daniels, and a young and stunning Charlize Theron before she made it big.

By David O'Brien

January 24, 2009 12:00 PM | Link to this

Bring Me The Head: White Heat and The Hustler would go on my list, for sure. And as much as I loved Citizen Kane (considered by many to be the greatest movie of all time), I think I probably enjoyed Touch of Evil even more from Orson Welles.

Just forgot to mention ‘em. It was late. Did that off the top of my head (and by looking at my DVD collection; no, I don’t have all of them, but a bunch).

Also forgot Dazed and Confused, which definitely belongs on my list. And Glengarry Glen Ross. Oh, and Say Anything, and definitely The Graduate.

And don’t know how in the world did I forget Unforgiven (that’s sitting on my DVD shelf, but I still overlooked it).

Still, my biggest oversight: Network. Definitely one of my favorite 25 movies of all time. Love it. “I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take it anymore….”

Also forgot Barfly, about my man Charles Bukowski, with Rourke as the great, drunken poet/author….

Lot of foreign films could/should be on my list, but it was late and I overlooked a bunch. Here’s some I’d definitely include if I were to sit down and do a comprehensive list:

La Femme Nikita (original, much better than good-not-great American remake with Bridgett Fonda);

The Lives of Others (terrific German movie from just a few years ago); Y Tu Mama Tambien;

Insomnia (the original Norwegian version, not the American remake);

Run Lola Run (loved that movie, another recent one);

Pedro Almodovar’s All About My Mother (I like several of his movies, including any with Penelope Cruz … oh, yeah);

Last Tango In Paris (OK, it was in English, but Bertolucci directed it);

The Eel (great Japanese movie from late ’90s, but I just saw it for first time this year);

City Of God (another from just a few years back, and one of my favorite movies, for sure);

Slumdog Millionaire (can’t remember when a foreign movie was my favorite overall movie of the year, but it was this year);

And last, but certainly not least, probably my personal favorite foreign movie, which is also one of my favorite movies, period: Old Boy, the very original (and very violent) masterpiece from South Korea.

Oh, and as for being a reporter, I’ll take All The President’s Men, The Insider (with Russell Crowe) and Absence of Malice, Broadcast News over the early-50s film you mentioned, Ace In The Hole. But you’re right, Ace In The Hole is a good one. Just wouldn’t be on my all-time list…

RHETT: We watched “The Visitor” last night and really liked it. He was deserving of the best-actor nomination he got (don’t know if he was more deserving than Eastwood, but I wouldn’t argue). .

By Steve from OH

January 24, 2009 12:06 PM | Link to this

Flange:

Happy 50th buddy!

By David O'Brien

January 24, 2009 12:09 PM | Link to this

Fred Secunda, 2 Days in The Valley was a cool movie that few saw.

Oh, and speaking of Jeff Daniels (born in Athens, Ga.): How ‘bout Little Miss Sunshine? That definitely goes on my list of top 50 or so films.

And what about Something Wild, with him and Liotta and Melanie Griffith? That was yet another great one I forgot to mention. And can you name the band that made an appearance in that movie? (If you guessed The Feelies, you have wasted some space in your brain on useless trivia, like I have.)

(Speaking of band appearances in movies, how ‘bout one of my favorities, The Plimsouls’ appearance in the Nic Cage movie Valley Girl? very cool.)

By David O'Brien

January 24, 2009 12:14 PM | Link to this

Keith Moon Lives, look at my overly long list from last night: Pope of Greenwich Village was right there in the middle of it, dude.

By David O'Brien

January 24, 2009 12:16 PM | Link to this

SCRusty: If I had an update on Sutton, Andruw of a new outfielder, I’d share it with you all, not keep it to myself.

By Zorba

January 24, 2009 12:20 PM | Link to this

I know it goes against the grain for the Braves, but why not bring up all four prospects and put them on the field. Schafer is better than anyone on the active roster. Freeman can’t be any worse that what we have at first now. Heyward is the big bat we need in left. Hanson, well he would have been our no. 2 pitcher on last years staff. The Marlins have been doing this for years and they have done well. Put them out there and let them learn on the job.

By Saltywoody

January 24, 2009 12:21 PM | Link to this

Can’t believe no one else said it, so I’m going to.

Salty Dawg*

Your best movies of all time seriously include “As Good As It Gets” ?

And I’ve got to chime in on this discussion, what with it being January and all. I’m a big po-mo movie fan, so i think these merit consideration:

Stranger Than Fiction

Punch-Drunk Love

And I’d be curious to see if anyone else agrees, but from some reason this movie touched me more than almost any other movie. And the cinematography/special effects are unbelievable:

What Dreams May Come

By mbatl

January 24, 2009 12:30 PM | Link to this

Braveheart…thanks for the follow up. No worries… next time, just substitute O’Brien’s name in there, or mine for that matter …

“IN the comedies surprised to see no love for Python? What about Holy Grail and Life of Brian? ” - Steve McP Couldn’t agree more. Those were 2 hilarious movies. As to Woody Allen, I also like Love and Death:

Countess: “You are the greatest lover I’ve ever had.”

Boris: “Well, I practice a lot when I’m alone” (hey, that was funny in 1975!)

One more that no one has mentioned (I don’t think). Juno … great writing, music and cast, great movie.

By Wayne in Utah

January 24, 2009 12:34 PM | Link to this

I can see it now…. “Dave O’Brien sitting at his keyboard, woofing down a pop-tart (real men eat pop tarts) and thinking to himself… even though I just got off the phone with Frank Wren and Scott Boras, and they told me Andruw was going to sign a contract…with the Peoria Flyers, I think I will hold off and not tell that asky hole Wayne on the blog! Take that Wayne!”

What did you guys think about “Two Lane Blacktop”. Was sort of a cult classic from 71, but didn’t get much love. In the same vein (minimal talking), but totally different was “The Bear”. Loved the scene near the end where the little bear thinks he is scaring off the mountain lion….

By Wayne in Utah

January 24, 2009 12:37 PM | Link to this

Last night I googled Bullitt, and found out that Ford has manufactured a “Bullitt” Mustang (this is the second time) last year for the 40th anniversary of the movie. Probably my favorite chase sceen of all time.

Ticked me off when they crumpled the front fender on the Charger in Dirty Mary, Crazy Larry!

By chris r.

January 24, 2009 12:45 PM | Link to this

DOB, have you watched the cartoon Afro Samurai, featuring Samuel L. Jackson? It came on Spike TV. Do you have that channel down there? A Braves homer in NYC. However, it was really good. If you get the chance, and you haven’t seen it, it is on DVD. Just finished watching the sequel to the show on DVD - Afro Samurai: Resurrection. Very good follow up to the show. Check it out when you get a chance

By Bobby's Cox

January 24, 2009 12:53 PM | Link to this

I’m loving the non-roster invitee list! Time for change indeed…it’s refreshing to see the ballclub so committed to these young guys.

Nice of you to bring up Medlin DOB….some people have been forgetting about him, but he’s on his way to being a solid #2/3 guy at the very least.

By Random

January 24, 2009 12:58 PM | Link to this

*(sigh) … okay.

Movies …

The Ruling Class

King of Hearts

8˝

Eraserhead

The Pope of Greenwich Village

Runaway Train

About Last Night

After Hours

Caddyshack

Road Warrior

*(sigh)

By Mike S

January 24, 2009 12:59 PM | Link to this

DOB, no “Snatch” or “Lock, Stock and two Smoking Barrels” on the list? I thought one or both of those would be up there for sure.

Snatch is one of my top 5 favorite movies of all time.

By tlj

January 24, 2009 1:01 PM | Link to this

Regarding Chipper’s Extention:

Braves should give him the 3 year extention he is asking for. First of all he is still productive even if he misses 10 to 15 games a year. Secondly he has been loyal to the organization.

Possible Trade Scenario: (I know it not going to happen but fun pretending)

Trade for Brian Roberts using some of our prospects not named Heyard, Hanson, etc. Since he only has 1 year on his contract the asking price shouldn’t be that great. Then Give Roberts 3 year extention similar to what we were offering Furcal except less per year. Trade KJ plus relief pitcher for Ludwick.

We now have improved defense on the infield, a lead off hitter and added a power bat for right field. With our improved pitching staff we are ready to challenge for the division title.

Enjoy everyone.

By Keith Moon Lives

January 24, 2009 1:02 PM | Link to this

Sorry D.O.B. You are the Man !

By McFann O –[zzz] (Braves Fann For Life)

January 24, 2009 1:03 PM | Link to this

I just thought of two more movies: Ice Age and Chicken Run…dang, the list goes on!

By SeattleBravesFan

January 24, 2009 1:12 PM | Link to this

A History of Violence Tombstone This is…Spinal Tap Princess Bride Fargo Reservoir Dogs

By Alex

January 24, 2009 1:16 PM | Link to this

DOB-

I’m a bit too hungover to go back and triple check…but I’m pretty sure your list didn’t include “Being There”, not that big of a fan?

By ChipperFan

January 24, 2009 1:17 PM | Link to this

I can do a top 3 easier than I can do a top 10 or 25:

It’s a Wonderful Life Casablanca No Country for Old Men

Those 3 films are head and shoulders above anything else I’ve ever seen.

I could do a really long list of the next tier. Also, I could make a DOB-style favoites list. But the 3 above I consider to be objectively the best, not necessarily my favorites.

By Random

January 24, 2009 1:20 PM | Link to this

Zorba: “Freeman can’t be any worse that what we have at first now.”

I really don’t get the no love for Kotchman ignorance constantly being flaunted on the blog.

“I know it goes against the grain for the Braves, but why not bring up all four prospects and put them on the field… . The Marlins have been doing this for years and they have done well. Put them out there and let them learn on the job.”

Newsflash: Even despite Atlanta’s recent dreadful woes of the past 3 or 4 years, 2008 was the first time in the history of mankind (or their own sixteen year existence) that the Marlins finished a season higher than the Braves.

By Steve from OH

January 24, 2009 1:24 PM | Link to this

The Departed, The Big Lebowski, The Godfather I, II, Scarface, Goldeneye, Spinal Tap, Happy Gilmore, Kingdom of Heaven, Old School, Saving Private Ryan, Anchorman, The Ladies’ Man, Office Space and The Dark Knight come to mind.

Band of Brothers, while not a movie, is still one of my all-time favorite things to watch, bar none.

And Coach, I ain’t a’scerred of no one, partna. Anyone got any of that good sarsaparilly? (Sorry, I watched the Big Lebowski again last night…)

By David O'Brien

January 24, 2009 1:35 PM | Link to this

Mike S: Both really good movies, and Lock, Stock & Two Smoking Barrels would be in my, oh, top 100 probably. I’ve got both on DVD, if that’s any indication (in other words, I do like them both a lot).

By the way, if you like those, then surely you saw Guy Ritchie’s latest, RocknRolla, released last fall, right? Didn’t do much at box office, but I thought it was right up there with those other two, and similar theme/dialogue. If you like Snatch and LSTSB, you’ll like it, for sure.

By the1

January 24, 2009 1:53 PM | Link to this

This is the major leagues- The biggest changes come form risks, and let me tell you, this IS a risk that needs to be taken. Andruw isnt done, not by a long shot

By f.n. hale

January 24, 2009 1:54 PM | Link to this

I thought I could put together a pretty good top 20 or so movie list but kept seeing ones I had forgotten about reading all the lists this morning.

bubdylan I too am a fan of Princess Bride. Very good movie but a great book by one of my favorite authors, William Goldman who also wrote the screenplay for Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, also one of my favorite movies. I may have missed it but didn’t see any mention of David Mamet movies on the lists. That guy blows me away much like the Coens. Been layed up with a broken leg the last few weeks so I’ve done nothing but read and watch movies between hobbling off to work.

Lew I loved Norton in Primal Fear too. Never been much of a Richard Gere fan but Norton was so good it didn’t matter. He plays crazy as well as anyone around but is pretty good at comedy too. Did you see Down in the Valley? Those and Fight Club and 25th Hour, the Spike Lee flick, Death to Smoochy. I started typing there aren’t many actors I’ll go see a movie just because they’re in it with him being one, but I guess I’ll watch anything with Hackman, DeNiro, Nicholson, Clooney (the swarthy one), Morgan Freeman and Sam Jackson just off the top of my head, and would probably come up with others given the time. I haven’t found many dogs with those guys in them.

DOB I finally caught Miller’s Crossing on IFC a couple weeks ago and just wow. Never thought I’d find Marcia Gay Harding hot, but what a performance. I still couldn’t add Raising Arizona to my list and maybe I need to go back and see it again, but Oh Brother and Fargo are at the top of my all time favorites with Pulp Fiction and Shawshank. After those four I have a bunch of others probably tied for 5th.

I don’t remember whose list it was on, but I’m a big fan of As good As It Gets. I stray to the romantic comedies more than I like to admit. Guess my inner chick isn’t as inner as some.

By Rolf

January 24, 2009 1:54 PM | Link to this

I really enjoy Gladiator, but have to fast forward the killing of his wife and kids. Just too much. Cindarella Man was another good flick that The Man was in.

Although I know DOB is not a big fan of comic based movies, I am. When my kids are watching The Incredibles, I find myself sitting down “for just a few minutes”….

By Salty Dawg

January 24, 2009 1:58 PM | Link to this

Saltywoody-

“Your best movies of all time seriously include “As Good As It Gets” ?”

Yeah, I know it isn’t a “classic” movie or anything. But Nicholson’s character was fantastic. So many one liners from that movie.

Receptionist: I just have to ask, how do you write women so well?

Nicholson: Easy. I think of a man, then take away reason and accountability.

Like I said, that list could really go on and on. I just threw out the ones I could think of off the top of my head that I’d watch again and again. After reading some of the posts by other people, there are several others I can’t believe I forgot.

Office Space, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, etc., etc.

By Anders

January 24, 2009 1:59 PM | Link to this

DOB

You mentioned in an earlier post that Chipper isn’t threatening the Braves or asking for top dollar but he does want three years. Do you have an indication on the type of dollars per he does want? Does the Chipper extension factor have any bearing on what they are hoping to do to add a bat in the OF?

Sorry if this was covered recently but I’ve been away from the blog with very little new baseball stuff going on and not being interested in the movie/music thing on here. That’s not a knock on that, I get why you guys use that to fill down periods.

By Mike S

January 24, 2009 2:00 PM | Link to this

Yea, really wanted to see Rock n Rolla, just never got around to seeing it in the theater (no good excuse really). But its coming out on DVD next Tuesday. It’s at the top of the Blockbuster queue just waiting for the release date. So I’ll definitely catch it soon.

Did you ever see Revolver? That was his most recent before RocknRolla. It was made years ago, but didnt get released in the US until a year ago or so (not surprisingly). It had Jason Statham (of course!), Ray Liotta, Andre Benkamin and Big P*ssy. It wasn’t very good, so I’ve been a little worried that Guy Ritchie wouldn’t be able to duplicate his brilliant successes of Snatch and Lock Stock (since pretty much everything he had done since has been crap - especially that horrible Swept Away with Madonna). Maybe he just needed to get away from Madonna?!?

By David O'Brien

January 24, 2009 2:03 PM | Link to this

Those who’ve asked about Orlando Hudson, I do hear he’s on the Braves’ radar, that they have/are considering him. And frankly, he makes more sense than Brian Roberts, who would require a package of prospects to get via trade, and who’d be a free agent at the end of the year. Why not just sign Hudson, especially since the price for the free agent isn’t going to be as high as suspected because the market for him isn’t nearly what he’d hoped it’d be.

The one thing is that Roberts is significantly better offensively and would be the leadoff man the Braves thought they were going to get before Furcal changed course and went back to the Dodgers. But is he that much better, that he’s worth giving up prospects to have Roberts for a year before he’s a free agent? Could have Hudson for a multi-year contract, just don’t know how eager Braves are to move Kelly to LF at this point, with spring training around the corner, etc., or whether they’d prefer to wait until spring, see how the young guys do, and trade for an OF, which would cost a lot less in trade than Roberts would (and that’s even assuming Orioles would trade Roberts, which isn’t a given — they’d rather re-sign him if possible.)

By BravesRic

January 24, 2009 2:08 PM | Link to this

Don’t know if anyone mentioned this one - “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest”. Any classic all-time movies would have to include one/some of Jack Nicholson’s in the conversation.

One of my all-time favorites is Gregory Peck’s “The Big Country”; wonderful movie. And “Spartacus” with Kirk Douglas, too.

And how about the “Six Days of the Condor” (Redford) and “The Sun Also Rises” (Orson Wlles). I’m getting old!

By Steve from OH

January 24, 2009 2:13 PM | Link to this

How could I forget Monty Python and the Holy Grail? A classic.

By Steve McP

January 24, 2009 2:23 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB, why come in with baseball talk on a movie blog?

By shockley

January 24, 2009 2:35 PM | Link to this

DOB, scary similar lists. Looking through your foreign selections, I’d have a bunch plus add Cinema Paradiso. Really enjoyed that one, music was fantastic.

By McFann O –[zzz] (Braves Fann For Life)

January 24, 2009 2:46 PM | Link to this

Princess Diaries I……

By YankeeDawg

January 24, 2009 2:46 PM | Link to this

DOB, thanks for the response on Tex, and you’re right I would have raised cain if I thought we missed the playoffs and could have had Tex. I still think the McGriff move is the best ever and I would have thought we were too chicken $hit to do it again. Revisionist History but it would seem there is some type of scout ratings versus the likelyhood of re-signing Tex that says don’t do this trade. But I would much rather be the Phillies today (Title in Hand) than be on the best farm system list… meaning glad we took a shot for two years, pitching injuries and Francouer’s falling off a cliff, and A Jones as well is what sunk us. But glad we took the shot at a title - Herm Edwards, You play to win the game.

Music Gomez?

Movies No Platoon? Dafoe and Berringer in that film, also what about To live and Die in LA? And I’m really not that big a Dafoe fan, just he’s had some great roles over the year.

Have The Visitor on Netflix queue, says it is the follow up to Station Agent (I gave that a 3.5 out of 5 stars) I can take a slow character dev. pacing but the train guy was a little TOO ecentric.

By David O'Brien

January 24, 2009 2:47 PM | Link to this

Anders: I’m not sure what Chipper is looking for in terms of dollars. He hasn’t given any indication….

Primal Fear, good call. And how ‘bout the awesome Ed Norton in American History X? Powerful performance, great movie.

And yes, Office Space is one of my favorite comedies. Forgot that, too. And Monty Python and the Holy Grail, got to be on there. Great, great comedy.

Two other hilarious Monty Python movies: The Meaning of Life and The Life of Brian.

How ‘bout The Royal Tenenbaums? Election? Lost in Translation?

See, this is impossible. Fun, but impossible.

Gotta focus on KU-Iowa State game. Diverting my attention has allowed ISU to get back in the game.

By dogsbrekky

January 24, 2009 2:55 PM | Link to this

Alex - “Being There” AND Peter Sellers etc

Being There was way over my head when I saw it all of those years ago as far as the humor went… think I was a teen when I watched it..

BUT…

Two of my favorite scenes in any movie come from Peter Sellers flicks,

1. I cannot remember which “Pink Panther” but the scene where he arrests the “chimpanzee” with the blind organ grinder…. classic, and

2 The birdie num nums scene from “The Party”

Monty Python and Guy Ritchie flicks are also fun… Prefer Lock Stock over SNATCH

Baseball - Orlando Hudsucker Proxy would be a good pick up on the cheap for us…. move KJ to OF

By Chris from the Rock

January 24, 2009 2:58 PM | Link to this

Okay, I’ll chime in for what’s in worth. But I’ll list my top 10 foreign films: 8 1/2 Ran The Seventh Seal Wild Strawberries Solaris Smiles of a Summer Night Cinema Paradiso Yojimbo M Pan’s Labyrinth

By Jim

January 24, 2009 2:58 PM | Link to this

Hudson v. KJ:

Fielding: assumption: OH is a lot better fielder than KJ at 2B. Fact: Hudson’s range/fielding % has declined over 6 yrs. MLB experience as follows: 5.85/.986; 5.80/.984/5.84/.981; 5.47/.984; 4.91/.985; 4.82/9.82. First three years in Toronto; last three in AZ. KJ’s range/fielding % last two years: 4.76/.978; 5.18/.980. So, in ‘08, KJ had a higher range factor, 5.18 v. 4.82, and their fielding % were about the same.

Hitting is interesting. OH has .817 OPS in ‘07, ‘08, hitting .294 and .305, with 10/63 and 8/41 HR/RBI. OH did not play in Sept. last season (injury?), but had .818/.316 post All-Star game #s. KJ had .831/.276 and .795/.287 in ‘07, ‘08 with 16/68 and 12/69. KJ’s ‘08 is helped by .398/1.072 OPS/BA in 98 ABs last Sept-Oct.

Conclusion: OH is a good ballplayer, but if you think that Bs will have better fielder at 2B, that’s not certain. OH’s declining RF (and effects of injury ???) leave that a very open question.

OH would be a better bat than B’s currently have in LF. OH hit RHP better than LHP in ‘08 - .321 v. .269. If Diaz played LF against LHP (.331) and KJ played LF against RHP with OH at 2B on those days, it would improve BA in line-up but totally confuse things at 2B where you would like more consistency in the player matched with Esco on DPs, etc.

Final thought: OH doesn’t add as much as a good hitting traditional LF, assuming one is available on B’s budget, but OH will be a lot cheaper than an Abreu or Dye (no longer strong arm from RF). If difference in $$s allows B’s to sign Ohman, that is also a factor. OH would bat at bottom of line-up. He isn’t a base stealer. Critical that B’s get Anderson or Schafer on top of line-up.

By Smoky Joe Wood

January 24, 2009 3:00 PM | Link to this

Talk about “The Pope of Greenwich Village” reminds me of a great read, The Mayor of MacDougal Street (which is in Greenwich Village) by Dave Van Ronk. Van Ronk was a jazz/blues/folk singer, and he ruled Greenwich in the late 50’s/early 60’s. Dylan slept on his couch when he arrived in New York in ‘61-62. He knew all the old blues guys—John Lee Hooker, Mississippi John Hurt, Reverend Gary Davis, Sonny Terry, Son House. And he knew the new folkies—Phil Ochs, Tom Paxton, Simon and Garfunkel, Joni Mitchell. Great sense of humor: “We wanted to play jazz in the worst way—and we did.”

DOB: I bet you’d enjoy that book.

By brandon

January 24, 2009 3:09 PM | Link to this

DOB-

I’m curious on what you think about all the Braves young pitching:

Parr, Morton, Reyes, Hanson, Parr, Medlen, etc.

What are the chances of all of these guys being legitimate pitchers for the Braves? Are any of them sleepers for the Braves? It looks like an awful lot of young pitching talent. We’ve heard about Hanson and even seen some of Morton and Reyes. Is there any possibility of these pitchers making a new dream rotation and/or strong bullpen?

By Anders

January 24, 2009 3:16 PM | Link to this

DOB

Anders: I’m not sure what Chipper is looking for in terms of dollars. He hasn’t given any indication….

So how do you know he isn’t looking for top dolar? Not being a smart a$$, just wondering. I mean, with all the money the Braves offered others this off season maybe he’s changed his thought process on signing for less than market.

for your list “Das Boot” 1981 version. As suspensful a movie as I’ve ever watched.

By Tomas

January 24, 2009 3:16 PM | Link to this

I think Orlando Hudson makes much more sense to the Braves than Brian Roberts. The only thing that Roberts posses that Hudson doesn’t is speed. The ability to steal bases, and get on base, were qualities that Furcal posses and that the Braves have missed since he left.

But Orlando, would improve the team, no doubt about it. Kelly is a defensive liability, and Hudson is one of the best if not the best defensively. He hits 300, has a relatively high OBP(around 360), has a lot of doubles, and reaches double digits in homers.

Lineup:

• 2B Orlando Hudson
• LF Kelly Johnson
• 3B Chipper Jones
• C Brian McCann
• SS Yunel Escobar(it depends if Frenchy does make a comeback to his old self)
• 1B Casey Kotchman
• RF Jeff Franceour(depends on him)
• CF Jordan Schaefer

Very good bench, starting pitching, and bulpen.

By Fred

January 24, 2009 3:24 PM | Link to this

For those of you who liked Saving Private Ryan, check out the original version entitled The Fighting Sullivans. I enjoyed the original much more than the remake. Also, I would add Kramer vs. Kramer and some Hitchcock flicks (Psycho, Vertigo) to my list of favorites.

By Bubdylan

January 24, 2009 3:26 PM | Link to this

“may have missed it but didn’t see any mention of David Mamet movies on the lists.” f.n. hale

Glengary Glenn Ross made my list, effin’. I’m with you on Bill Goldman. If you want a great, great DVD commentary, better than most any I can think of, get the special edition of Butch Cassidy and click on Goldman’s commentary. Very relaxed and full of great anecdotes. I listened to it all the way through, and I seldom do that.

By TNScott

January 24, 2009 3:31 PM | Link to this

DOBTwo of my favorite comedies when I grew up in the early 80’s were Used Cars with Kurt Russell and Airplane. I noticed you didn’t , even give them a mention. Surely, you can’t be serious!!!

By Fred

January 24, 2009 3:35 PM | Link to this

I forgot to mention Ferris Bueller’s Day Off as one of my favorites. A buddy and I fly up to Chicago every year to catch the Braves at Wrigley and to eat a big juicy steak at Gibson’s. It’s interesting how I always seem to get the “flu” whenever the Braves are in Chicago. By the way, remember a few years ago when Marcus Giles plowed into Mark Prior and got a concussion? I saw Giles out that night at Gibson’s drinking plenty of red wine with Hampton and their significant others. He didn’t look too concussed to me and I’m sure red wine isn’t the best way to recover from that condition.

By braves fan 4 life

January 24, 2009 3:37 PM | Link to this

If the braves end up signing Orlando Hudson or trading for Brian Roberts to play second base. Instead of moving Kelly Johnson to left field they could trade him to the white sox for Jermaine Dye. Trading for or signing Brian Roberts or Orlando Hudson and moving Kj to left field doesnt accomplish the goal of getting a consistent run producing Right handed bat to hit in the cleanup spot behind Chipper and in front of Mcann. Trading Kj for Dye or someone of his ilk does accomplish that goal.

By Yars

January 24, 2009 3:52 PM | Link to this

If we were to sign Orlando Hudson, wouldn’t it gives us some insight that the Braves front office has lost faith in KJ @ 2B? Meaning, they just don’t think he can hack it @ 2B? I really do believe that KJ is going to have a breakout season offensively in ‘09. Hell, if I were Wren, I would keep KJ @ 2B, & sign Dunn for 1 year. Then, pray that Frenchy has got it together, & see what happens in CF. Let Schafer, Blanco, Anderson, & possibly Andruw battle it out. now playing: down in it by nine inch nails.

By oh brother

January 24, 2009 3:55 PM | Link to this

kelly johnson for ryan ludwick

kelly johnson for matt cain

kelly johnson for jermaine dye

what’s next? kelly johnson for a-rod, cano and cash?

dudes, it’s KELLY johnson not magic johnson.

By Steve McP

January 24, 2009 4:06 PM | Link to this

Do we still have enough money to sign Hudson?

Signing Lowe and Kawakami and trading for Vasquez took up $33 Million for 09, not much leeway with the arb increases and the hoped for signing of Ohman, we have not shed a lot of salary, only Smoltz and Glavine, but I think that they were largely taken into account when people were talking about the $40 mill being available.

How much would Hudson cost? The market is slipping for position players and there does not seem to have been a lot of interest him thus far, the same goes for Manny, Dunn, Abreu, etc.

A later move, as has been much discussed might be less expensive, it seems to me that GM’s are sitting on their hands waiting to see what the going rate for a position player FA is going to be, they can then negotiate from there, when a player accepts a low ball contract, which looks very possible, we could see expectations for the other FA’s drop as sharply as the housing market has.

By Tomas

January 24, 2009 4:07 PM | Link to this

Orlando Hudson has the same age as Roberts, and will certainly earn much less. O-dog is a free agent, Roberts isn’t. How much will Hudson command? 2 years 12 million, or 3 years 18 million.

The Braves had for sure 55.05 million, not counting arbitration elegible, McCann’s raise, Soriano’s raise, and FA signing’s. Also not counting Tim hudson’s insurance money.

So far they have signed Derek Lowe(15 million), Kenshin Kawakami(7.67 million), David Ross(1.5 million), and Greg Norton(1.75 to 0.800k). They traded for Javier Vazques(11.5 million). Brian McCann raises from 800k to 3.5 million), and Rafael Soriano raises from 2.4 million to 6.1 million. They’ve spent a total of 42.77 million on these players.

Their arbitration-eligible players — Jeff Francoeur(earned 460k, he might earn 3.95 million next year), Infante(changes from 1.4 million to 1.85 million), Mike Gonzalez(earned 2.36 million, he will earn 3.45 million), Kelly Johnson(earned 380k, he might earn 3.3 million), Matt Diaz(earned 1.22 million, he will earn the same), and Casey Kotchman(earned 1.45 million, he might earn 3.25million).

With all the arb raises, the Braves would have to pay 9.75million extra TOPS.

Of the 55.05 million they had for sure they’ve spent 52.52 million(tops for their current team), not counting Tim Hudson’s insurance money(which would be about 6.5 million). And they’ve said payroll is going up.

Only way they sign Orlando Hudson is if payroll indeed goes up, and the Braves do get Tim Hudson’s insurance money.

By Steve McP

January 24, 2009 4:18 PM | Link to this

Tomas - don’t forget Ohman, he is going to be a big signing and take up more budget

By Samuel Stiles

January 24, 2009 4:19 PM | Link to this

DOB Every movie you have listed I have either loved or liked alot. I am partial to weirder movies.. i.e… David Lynch, Charlie Kaufman, Coen Brothers, P.T. Anderson, Quentin Tarantino and anything with a Jon Brion musical score! True Romance is my number 1… always has been for some reason. I love tipping people to that one, because not everybody has seen it or realizes that quentin tarantino wrote it, but didn’t direct it. Ahh…the never ending conversations of best movies of all time… best albums of all time… best books of all time…

By McFann O –[zzz] (Braves Fann For Life)

January 24, 2009 4:20 PM | Link to this

Fred—

Love The Fighting Sullivans! But that ending gets me every time. Brutal!

Thought of two more: Ratatouille and Father Goose. Sheesh…just can’t stop!

By Coach (Skip and Pete will be missed)

January 24, 2009 4:27 PM | Link to this

Steve in Ohio, if you are referring to the post at 10:25 last night, Not MY DOING. I have never posted in bold and I never will.

David O’Brien continually does a poor job of maintaining his blog, thus the confusion. Sorry, his fault not mine.

By Mr J

January 24, 2009 4:34 PM | Link to this

I don’t like the KJ to LF scenario because it doesn’t address the 4 hole batter problem. We all love McCann, but he can’t play every day as a catcher and hope to have much left for the playoff run (hey, you got to stay positive!).

If Hudson or Roberts are acquired, then KJ must be traded for a power hitting LF to bat 4th. That saddens me a little because I really like KJ, and his attitude toward the team has been exemplary.

“Hey Kelly, what position do you want to play?”

“Skip, I’m happy to play wherever the Braves need me!”

“Kelly I’m glad you feel that way, because we need you to play in St. Louis.”

Kinda sucks, doesn’t it.

By Michael in Afghanistan

January 24, 2009 4:36 PM | Link to this

I LOVE the Roberts trade idea! Although, I wouldn’t be too upset about sending Kelly Johnson away and just let Diaz handle left. Or trade Frenchie and move Johnson to right. But surely I’m not the only one who thinks that the Braves need a dominant #1 pitcher?!? Why not go ahead and give Ben Sheets a 2 year deal for $17 million? That would be a steal. I know his health is a question mark (despite throwing almost 200 innings this past season), but when he’s pitching he’s better than anybody, save maybe Peavy.

By Tomas

January 24, 2009 4:37 PM | Link to this

Steve McP,

If I had to guess, I think Will Ohman gets a 2-3 year deal(around the amount of 3 million per year. But it isn’t a done deal, there are a lot of teams interested in him.

Tom Glavine might require 1.5 million guaranteed + another 1.5 million in incentives.

Andruw Jones would require 400k and a major league contract.

And who knows, maybe Adam Dunn, Orlando Hudson, Bobby Abreu, or Garret Anderson. For whatever money there is left which I’m gussing woul be around 4-5 million.

By brian

January 24, 2009 4:40 PM | Link to this

isn’t Willy Mays Hayes available for the CF opening? Leadoff hitter we have been needing and some speed at the top of the lineup. Improved basestealer

By TERAP

January 24, 2009 4:47 PM | Link to this

The braves are looking at a 70-75 win season…..have a happy 2009.

By NickB

January 24, 2009 5:10 PM | Link to this

my top 12 or so fave films ( in no particular order)

Dead Man The Treasure of the Sierra Madre The Godfather Apocalypse Now Dr Strangelove Star Wars The Seven Samurai The Thing( Carpenter version) Schindler’s List King Kong (original 1933) The Searchers The Good the Bad and the Ugly

could go on and on and ….

By Frank

January 24, 2009 5:12 PM | Link to this

Hudson sounds like a great idea.

IMO, he’d give the Braves a MUCH better defensive 2nd baseman then K.J with the same amount of pop from the offensive-side.

It won’t happen….but to bring Dye back to the Braves would be a awesome move. I doubt VERY strongly Frenchy will rebound from his disastorious(sp) season of a year ago and Dye would be a much upgrade from him.

I don’t know about the rest of the fellow bloggers that aren’t local Atlantians(sp)….but I sure as heck wished they would bring the Braves BACK to TBS. I said this on one of the past blogs…but as bad as they played last season…..I would’ve given anything to see them play.

By TennesseePaul

January 24, 2009 5:21 PM | Link to this

Anders: Based on past experience

While [Chipper’s] body hasn’t provided full cooperation recently, there’s no doubt that Jones’ desire to remain a Brave remains as strong as it was before the start of the 2006 season, when he agreed to alter his contract by agreeing to sacrifice potential earnings of $15 million for the guarantee of sticking with Atlanta through at least the end of the 2008 season.

With the alteration of this contract, Jones will have earned $48 million — including the $11 million option that vested for 2009 — from the start of the ‘06 season through the end of this upcoming season. His previous contract, which included club options for ‘07 and ‘08, could have netted him a maximum of $52 million from 2006-08.

Jones, who has made nearly $120 million during his career, has never worried about any of the money he might have lost by altering his contract. He’s always been more concerned about the guaranteed opportunity to remain with the Braves.

By McFann O –[zzz] (Braves Fann For Life)

January 24, 2009 5:29 PM | Link to this

Mr J “but [McCann] can’t play every day as a catcher and hope to have much left for the playoff run”

That’s my biggest—I guess you’d say—concern.

OK, one more movie: Bella. Oh yeah…very good film.

By Chuck James was Solid until the 6th!!!

January 24, 2009 5:30 PM | Link to this

“Yeaahhhhh…. Peter, yeaaahhhh, I’m going to need to go ahead and ask you to come in on Saturday and Sunday, yeahhh.”

-Lumburg

By BravesFanInRockies

January 24, 2009 5:37 PM | Link to this

TERAP,

Sure. Whatever.

By Anders

January 24, 2009 5:46 PM | Link to this

Tenn. paul

Regarding your 5:21 post just three weeks ago most would have made your same exact argument for why Smoltz would stay for less. How’d that work out?Time’s they are a changing. I’ve been beating that drum for you guys since October. I’m not saying Chipper will want elite money, but he’s not staying for the deep discounts he’s given before in years or $’s per year imo.

Based on Wren’s offering of big dollars to Burnett and Furcal, the over payment for Lowe (understandable)plus the Smoltz situation I think it’s fair to say “You Know Who” has quite a bit of leverage. I mean, can they really ask him to take another one for the team?

By f.n. hale

January 24, 2009 5:57 PM | Link to this

bubdylan Glengarry is a great one and I really liked The Verdict. God, Newman was incredible in that one. The Postman Always Rings Twice and The Untouchables would have to place somewhere in my top 50 and maybe American Buffalo and Hannibal. Silence of the Lambs blew me away and I was a little disappointed in Hannibal for that reason, but standing alone it was a very good movie IMO.

By BravesFanInRockies

January 24, 2009 5:58 PM | Link to this

Anders,

Fair point. If the Braves offer him a three year extension, however, he wouldn’t be taking one for the team. I don’t even think the Yanks or the Sox would take a gamble on a sizable two-year deal for Chipper at the end of 2009 given his health issues.

By TommyP

January 24, 2009 6:03 PM | Link to this

Please forgive the baseball talk, y’all….

Bill Madden of the Daily News is saying that the over 30 year old OFs will probably end up taking 1 year deals. Abreu, Dunn, Griffey….

If the Braves could sign a Dunn or preferably an Abreu on a 1 year deal, I’d personally be ecstatic.

The Hudson talk? What the hell???? Why do the Braves need Orlando Hudson?

Let’s see….Hudson, KJ, Chipper, McCann, FRENCHY, Kotchman, Yunel and Schafer/Blanco/Anderson?????

You gotta be kidding me…. Even a cellar-dwelling fantasy owner wouldn’t do that.

By Random

January 24, 2009 6:05 PM | Link to this

Steve McP: “we have not shed a lot of salary, only Smoltz and Glavine”

And Hampton.

(And Corky.)

8-)

By RR

January 24, 2009 6:12 PM | Link to this

according to cots lowe- 15.0 hudson -13.0 (ins may payback a potion) vasquez -11.5 chipper 11.0 kk -7.67 soriano -6.1 gonzo -3.45 omar -1.85 ross - 1.4 diaz - 1.2.375 mccann -3.5 norton 1.75 thats 77.5 approx for 12 ( 11 +hudson) you have 3 arb cases left that will add another 10 million 11 - minimum salary players appox 6 million more that makes it 93.5 by my count not much room unless we recoup hudson’s salary thru insurance

By nolie

January 24, 2009 6:14 PM | Link to this

FanSince

you seem to be a western fan too. How about Once Upon A Time In The West which is widely regarded as the best spaghetti western ever made?

By Bubdylan

January 24, 2009 6:15 PM | Link to this

“Please forgive the baseball talk, y’all….” TommyP

15 of the 20 posts above your 6:03 (subtracting one-line howdies and such) were about baseball. So, I guess we can forgive if you continue that trend.

By Anders

January 24, 2009 6:19 PM | Link to this

Bravesinfaninrockies

I don’t think the years will be an issue. Personally I thought Chipper might want 4. I am anxious to see where the $’s per year is though. He’s certainly worth more to the Braves than Lowe. He is the face of the franchise and led the league in hitting last year! The Red Sox would chase him next year imo.

By Bubdylan

January 24, 2009 6:21 PM | Link to this

f.n. hale, Mamet was in on Hannibal? I didn’t know that. I did notice, last time I saw Wag the Dog that he co-wrote that. And I bet myself he wrote Dustin Hoffman’s line “it’s… a… suitcase bomb (look of sheer excitement comes over his face at his own brilliant idea) … I didn’t even know I said that!”

Anyway… not sure it comes off in print. His directorial debut, The Spanish Prisoner is a winner, too.

By ccrider

January 24, 2009 6:28 PM | Link to this

Don’t Know how many of you guys have seen Schultz’s article on Jordan Schafer and his alledged HGH/Steroid use, but he states in never tested positive because he never took any of either drug. He states he was just around others who were caught and didn’t let anyone know what was going on in the organization. I hope a few of the bloggers who have played the “holier than thou” card will lay off a 21 year old who did nothing other than being around a much of morons that did. I’m a former police officer and I would love to know how many of the people attacking Schafer have ever been around friends that were underage and drinking or smoking a joint. Did you turn them in or just ignored it and went about your own business? I could tell by his comments when it happened something wasn’t right in the way he was treated, otherwise why the gag order on him. I view this as another misguided move by Bud Selig and his cronies: slapping down the minor leaguers, who have no money or union to defend themselves, instead of going after the stars in the Majors that have made the sport so rich the last 20 years. The owners and MLB are still cowards after all these years, throwing the peasants to the wolves while protecting the themselves. SHAME ON THEM!

By nolie

January 24, 2009 6:33 PM | Link to this

18Wheels

Shawshank is listed as the most popular movie on IMDb with over 400,000 votes. Quite a comeback from that slow start you referred to.

Used Cars

I can’t think of any important ones about the OK Corral that you missed. My Darling Clementine is generally considered the best, but I like Hour of the Gun about as well. The rest of the list order I agree with. Val was great Huckleberry.

By A FAN

January 24, 2009 6:34 PM | Link to this

hey DOB what are your thoughts on O Dawg. looking at his numbers he seems like a better defensive kelly johnson. i mean OPS is close he doesnt hit home runs or steal bases. how would he look hitting lead off?

By nolie

January 24, 2009 6:35 PM | Link to this

KeithMoon

re Pope Of Greenwich Village several of us including DOB mentioned it. Great flick

By ChipperFan

January 24, 2009 6:49 PM | Link to this

Anders

I have faith that if the dollars per year the Braves offer aren’t up to what You Know Who is looking for, Wren and Co. will up the offer. Over the last 3 years, Chipper leads the Majors in hitting (.342), and is 2nd in OBP and 3rd in OPS. I am pretty sure Wren realizes how important he is to the lineup (and the fans, and the city, etc.). I fully admit that most of what I have said here was also being said of Smoltz a few weeks ago, but I have confidence that the Braves won’t make a similar mistake with Chipper. Keep in mind the big difference: Chipper isn’t coming off a major injury. He’ll get his 3-year extension.

Everybody, check out this link:

http://www.braves-nation.com/forums/showthread.php?t=13774

This guy, Josh, seems to have broken it all down correctly, from what I can see. Now, keeping in mind that we will get about 6.5m back from Hudson’s insurance money, and that our payroll last year was over 104m, I think we most definitely have enough left to sign whoever we want for our OF. My calculations are that we have about $24m left. If Adam Dunn or Bobby Abreu hit right-handed, we’d already have one of ‘em, IMO. Those who keep saying “we can’t afford player x”, yes we can. We’re just waiting for the market to thaw and being picky.
I don NOT believe we’ll get Orlando Hudson or Brian Roberts. No need, when we can fill our biggest need (slugging cleanup hitter) through free agency.

By f.n. hale

January 24, 2009 6:50 PM | Link to this

bub forgot about Wag the Dog. I didn’t realize he was only a co-writer but that’s a good one too. Spanish Prisoner was surely very low budget but wasn’t Steve Martin’s character classic?

Hard to believe but I read Princess Bride in the 70’s if you can believe it. His novels have mostly not translated well to the screen which is odd for a guy mostly known as a screenwriter. For those that like movies his book “Adventures in the Screen Trade” gives a great “behind the curtains” view of movie making.

BTW for those complaining, I love the baseball/Braves talk or I wouldn’t be here, but how many times can we type/read proposed starting lineups and rotations and keep beating the same dead trade horses without falling asleep. For the record, I like Hudson, would be o.k. with moving KJ to left but would prefer not to, am mostly ambivalent about signing Andruw, hope Glavine comes back and they resign Chipper. Somebody wake me when the trade talks with the Sox for Baldelli heat up.

By David O'Brien

January 24, 2009 7:31 PM | Link to this

Bubdylan, The Spanish Prisoner and Wag The Dog. Loved ‘em both. And though he didn’t write it, how ‘bout Bulworth? Good movie. Not in my all-time list, but very good movie.

By David O'Brien

January 24, 2009 7:35 PM | Link to this

CCrider, glad you brought attention to Schultz’s story. He finally got Jordan Schafer to go on the record about the HGH accusations, etc. Good stuff….

A FAN: I gave my thoughts on O. Hudson above, earlier in the comments section….

Some mighty fine bikes at good prices out at the bike show at North Atlanta Convention Center, for those of you who are’t flat broke and are itching for two wheels with a big motor. I just got back from there. If my Harley was paid for, I think I’d have put some money down on a chopper. Alas, it ain’t paid off yet. So I just admired….

By nolie

January 24, 2009 7:37 PM | Link to this

Random

Remembered After Hours when Dave mentioned Something Wild, both great flix.

By nolie

January 24, 2009 7:43 PM | Link to this

Salty Dawg

I’ll cover your back on As Good As It Gets. Jack’s character was hilarious. Good call

By TennesseePaul

January 24, 2009 7:48 PM | Link to this

BFIR: I don’t think the Yanks or the Sox would take a gamble on a sizable two-year deal for Chipper at the end of 2009 given his health issues

Yeah, I seriously doubt the Yankees would considering their corner infield positions are manned by Teixeira and A-Rod for the next decade. The Sox on the other hand might take that gamble. Lowell will be gone eventually.

But, I hope Wren doesn’t screw this one up. He offered Smoltz a small contract, but the difference is, Smoltz is injured and rehabing. Chipper, while he doesn’t play a full season, is better than any replacement available. Remove Chipper from this team and replace him with the potential FA of next off season, and the team stinks. It might be young, but it doesn’t have a bat. I think Wren will approach him with a contract. I don’n think any contract negotiations with Chipper will take that long. Hence no need to rush and do it now.

By nolie

January 24, 2009 8:03 PM | Link to this

No love for “No Time For Sergeants”? Or is everybody just too young to remember it?

By shawn

January 24, 2009 8:05 PM | Link to this

See where someone said they would rather have Hudson because he is Roberts without the speed … now that is stupid because that is exactly WHY we need Roberts. We need speed and/or power and Hudson has neither. BTW IF Giants go after Manny with that pitching staff they become a very dangerous team.

By Anders

January 24, 2009 8:13 PM | Link to this

Sorry guys but Schafer coming out now and saying it wasn’t his stuff but his buddies is lame middle school drivel. If he’s gonna say that he should name names. Otherwise it doesn’t mean crap because the convicted guy is just giving his side of the story. Like Andy (Tim Robbins) said at the dinner table in Shawshank Redemption “Didn’t you hear? We’re all innocent in here.”

Listen, he’s a kid and even if he did it, he got punished and hopefully learned from it and deserves another chance.

You just can’t give us half the story to clear your name. Schulz’s story is self serving to Schafer (and maybe the Braves indirectly) but not exactly 60 Minutes type reporting.

By Quint

January 24, 2009 8:18 PM | Link to this

Y’all ever heard of “The Outlaw Josey Wales?”

By nolie

January 24, 2009 8:21 PM | Link to this

If I had to guess, I think Will Ohman gets a 2-3 year deal(around the amount of 3 million per year. But it isn’t a done deal, there are a lot of teams interested in him Tomas

I’ll be surprised if the Braves are willing to sign him for more than 2 years @3MPY

By BravesFanInRockies

January 24, 2009 8:23 PM | Link to this

Anders,

Easy, pal.

Maybe Schafer’s playing CYA but it’s pretty risky to name names unless you have concrete evidence — and since I’m not even sure there’s a reliable test for HGH, unless Schafer has vials and fingerprints and photos, there may not be any evidence.

Schafer’s risk by naming names is that there’s such a thing as defamation and it’s actionable in court. Unless you’ve got proof that can stand up to a lawsuit, he’d be an idiot to name names.

Perhaps he should have stayed quiet. That’s debatable. But are you wililng to provide him legal representation if he says more?

By nolie

January 24, 2009 8:25 PM | Link to this

MikeS

I didn’t think RocknRolla was anywhere near as good as Snatch or Lock Stock. His last few have been disappointing IMO

By Salty

January 24, 2009 8:31 PM | Link to this

Anders Fact is, it doesn’t matter what Schafer says…someone will call him a liar. The only thing serving a sentence does is…fulfill the sentence. Forget people believing you, though…that’s a pipe dream. What would you say/do in his shoes, huh? Give it some thought, then come back and judge.

By Anders

January 24, 2009 8:32 PM | Link to this

Bravesfansinrockies

Than he should keep his mouth shut imo. But my point is saying it wasn’t his without namimg names proves nothing and should be taken as such.

Honestly it’s not that big a deal. who among us hasn’t done stupid things at 22? He seems like a good kid and I actually hope he does ok. Not too ok, but ok.

BTW- My legal staff is tied up trying to get Wilpon’s money back from Madoff!

By Free Jordan Shafer

January 24, 2009 8:33 PM | Link to this

Anders - eat a bag.

There were rumors this summer that he was going to fight it - which i wish he would - but if he would have fought it, he would have lost. And lost big. A minor leaguer has so little power in the system. This would have never happened to a major leaguer - suspended for HGH without testing evidence.

I am a major supporter of getting PEDs out of the sport - but this is the expense. They went on a witch hunt last summer and this is what they got.

By Salty

January 24, 2009 8:34 PM | Link to this

BFIR Played catch up on ‘ye ol’ blog’ for the first time in ages. You and Scoots just had to rehash Clemson basketball this past week and ruin my day! LOL!

By David O'Brien

January 24, 2009 8:40 PM | Link to this

Now, keeping in mind that we will get about 6.5m back from Hudson’s insurance money, and that our payroll last year was over 104m, I think we most definitely have enough left to sign whoever we want for our OF. My calculations are that we have about $24m left.ChipperFan

You (or I) don’t know what they’ll get back for Hudson’s salary, because we don’t know what the percentage is that’s covered (it varies with different policies) or even how long he’ll be out, though we’ve got a real good idea on the latter.

As for your calculations showing the Braves have $24 mill left to spend on this year’s payroll — yeah, right. We’ll see. I’ll be surprised if they add more than half that amount, at least not before July, and then only if they’re right in the hunt and believe a particular player could get them over the hump.

By Salty

January 24, 2009 8:43 PM | Link to this

BTW- My legal staff is tied up trying to get Wilpon’s money back from Madoff!

Anders Now that’s classic! LOL!!

By Latenite Bail Bond Guy

January 24, 2009 8:43 PM | Link to this

I have to add Hud as one of my fave Paul Newman movies. Mr. Roberts, The Caine Mutiny also among my favorites. As for the others mentioned it seems we all have pretty good taste as far a movies go.

By Not Again

January 24, 2009 8:47 PM | Link to this

Y’all ever heard of “The Outlaw Josey Wales?” Quint

yeah, about 6 times so far since last night

By Late Nite Bail Bond Guy

January 24, 2009 8:49 PM | Link to this

I’ve been tring to find No Time For Sargeants on dvd for years. What a great movie. It used to show on TBS occasionally, but its been a long time.

By Frank

January 24, 2009 8:50 PM | Link to this

Seriously: Spice World. Best movie ever. I love it.

By Steve from OH

January 24, 2009 8:51 PM | Link to this

Coach, duly noted. Glad to see that wasn’t you.

By Anders

January 24, 2009 8:54 PM | Link to this

Is it just me or do others think Chipperfan might just be Chipper’s agent?

$24 mil more? Dream on.

By mbatl

January 24, 2009 8:56 PM | Link to this

If Schafer has learned his lessons as he said he has - regarding who he associates with - his 50 game suspension is a small price to pay for a huge lesson. Associations are a big deal for any young person, but especially for a pro athlete.

He wasn’t imprisoned, or banned for life. No criminal record here. I would assume that whatever he was banned for (I suspect possession or receipt of a banned substance), he probably did. Doesn’t mean he used … but he had some connection to banned substances. Good that it was rooted out early and hopefully is a thing of the past.

He should lock this subject in the vault (Seinfeld reference), and move on - play ball. No one (except him) really cares, I don’t think. No one was really talking about this any more until he chose to talk to Schultz.

By Anders

January 24, 2009 8:57 PM | Link to this

It used to show on TBS occasionally, but its been a long time.

How apropos for a Braves blog.

By Steve McP

January 24, 2009 9:28 PM | Link to this

DOB in your 8.40 post you indicate that the likely budget is going to be around $10-13 million, if that is so, what money do you think would be left once we have been through the arbitration process? That would surely leave a problem in making a signing, bearing in mind we would hope to get Ohman (3 Mill?) and then we would probably not have a lot left for a free agent like Dunn, Abreu or Hudson, especially if it were a short term contract - surely they would expect more if a 1 or 2 year deal were on offer, rather than a multi year contract?

By frankie knuckles

January 24, 2009 9:33 PM | Link to this

David, I noticed you posted the relatively unknown “Highway Patrolman” by the Boss. Does an audiophile like yourself prefer Johnny Cash’s version or Bruce’s? Also, I heard a podcast where you discuss the Jordan/HGH connection where you say you know what happened but you couldn’t discuss it. His story seems a little shaky but Jordan’s is young, seems to me that we should give the kid a break. Go braves!

By Efrim

January 24, 2009 9:36 PM | Link to this

Not sure if this was posted already but Keith Law wrote a “Potential top 100 candidates for 2010” blog over on ESPN.com. The emphasis is on guys who might jump into the middle or even the top part of the rankings next year. He writes about Julio Teheran and Cole Rohrbough:

“Julio Teheran (Rookie) is a right-handed pitcher from Colombia who probably would have made the list this year if he’d stayed healthy, but he had a slightly sore shoulder and Atlanta shut him down right away as a precautionary measure. Teheran, who earns a lot of comparisons to Felix Hernandez, sits at 94-97 mph with life on his fastball, shows a good changeup, and has very good feel for someone who will turn 18 next week. And look for left-hander Cole Rohrbough (A+) to return to the top 100 next year if he stays healthy all season.”

Just some more prospect stuff. Saw the Orlando Hudson post from DOB. Not sure what to think about it. If the Braves are interested in Roberts, than yes, it would make a lot of sense for them to be interested in Hudson-who won’t cost prospects, only money and the Braves third round pick. I’d rather them go after a left fielder, but I do understand their thinking…. at least I think I do. Upgrading the infield defense in any way(and there is only one way that makes sense, replacing Johnson) would increase our run prevention chances because of the groundball tendencies of a couple of our starters-Jair and Lowe.

Thing is, you are really hurting Kelly’s value overall. In terms of offense, he’d be an average to slightly above average left fielder. He definetly an above average offensive second baseman. So if they go the Orlando Hudson route and sign him for something like three seasons, then I think they should deal Johnson for an everyday power hitting left fielder. I wanted them to keep Johnson when all the Furcal to the Braves reports came out, but after mulling it over more, I think it makes more sense for them to trade him. Not too many second baseman with his offensive potential.

By Salty Dawg

January 24, 2009 9:47 PM | Link to this

Anders-

“Than he should keep his mouth shut imo. But my point is saying it wasn’t his without namimg names proves nothing and should be taken as such. Honestly it’s not that big a deal. who among us hasn’t done stupid things at 22? He seems like a good kid and I actually hope he does ok. Not too ok, but ok.”

What good does naming names do? Put him in the same category as Canseco, that’s about it. You can’t fault the guy for not throwing his friends or colleagues under the bus. That only shows that he has poor judgment and no character to boot. If the situation was what he says it was, then he has ever right to speak out about it because he was railroaded. Can you honestly say you would lay down and take it if you were in his shoes? Frankly I don’t find it any more difficult to believe his story than that he was caught using or in possession of HGH. Especially since MLB has virtually no burden of proof when it comes to suspending minor leaguers, at least from what I can tell. Hey, maybe he did it. Then again, maybe he didn’t. We will never know for sure. The only certainty is that the accusation will hang over his head for the rest of his career. It won’t always be a big deal, but the smudge will always be on his record. Good for him speaking out against the charges finally and good for him for not playing the Mercy Lewis role by throwing out names.

By No Time

January 24, 2009 9:52 PM | Link to this

I’ve been tring to find No Time For Sargeants on dvd for years. What a great movie. It used to show on TBS occasionally, but its been a long time LateNight

It’s not on DVD, but you can download a copy at ThePirateBay.Org if you do any bit torrent downloads.

By Anders

January 24, 2009 10:08 PM | Link to this

Salty dawg

I honestly don’t know all the specifics on the minor league testing deal etc. But if Schafer was so wronged then he’d be doing many a great service by naming names and bringing his injustice to the light of day. Maybe that would get this changed? He could be the Curt Flood of minor league steroid allegations.

As for his name being stained forever - to be honest outside of Atlanta I don’t think more than 1 in a 100 average fan’s knows who he is.

By Anders

January 24, 2009 10:14 PM | Link to this

Salty Dwag

BTW- About Canseco. The guy clearly has issues and has made many, many wrong decisions, but imo if it wasn’t for him a lot of this steroid stuff still would be under the rug. He did more to lead toward the cleaning up of baseball than Selig and the baseball owners did. Selig should be ashamed of himself. He’s a puppet of greedy owners.

By Logan

January 24, 2009 10:14 PM | Link to this

From Peter Gammons Blog.

Even Rangers team president Nolan Ryan was blown away by 20-year-old right-hander Neftali Perez in the Rangers’ pitching camp this week. “When Nolan is blown away by arm speed,” said Rangers general manager Jon Daniels, “we may be on to something.”

By Random

January 24, 2009 10:17 PM | Link to this

nolie: “Remembered After Hours when Dave mentioned Something Wild, both great flix.”

Yeah — Something Wild — I always draw a blank when I try to come up with its name (or else get stuck at “Wild Thing”).

I would have included that one if I could have remebered it.

And Being John Malkovich.

By The Artist Formerly Known as Too Hot For Teacher

January 24, 2009 10:20 PM | Link to this

hey DOB -

good call on Meaning of Life and Life of Brian - greatest Python works ever. Trainspoting has got to be one of the all time great foreign films. It was directed by Danny Boyle - of Slumdog Millionaire notoriety. Trainspoting should be mandatory viewing at all high schools. Ewan McGregor is amazing in it.

And I know you don’t know what kind of numbers Chipper wants for his extension but do you know if he and the Braves are still planning on trying to work on that before Spring Training?

By JAW

January 24, 2009 10:23 PM | Link to this

DOB, you rock man….

You consistently put forth the best blog of all your co-workers. They should read your work and learn from you. Keep up the good work.

By BlawgDawg

January 24, 2009 10:30 PM | Link to this

Went to the movies tonight with the wife and saw Slumdog Millionare…..WOW, unbelievable story. What a great movie it was, by far the best movie I’ve paid to see in the last year. I will certainly be adding it to my collection when it comes out on BlueRay.

By Efrim

January 24, 2009 10:34 PM | Link to this

And since everyone was posting their top ten movies, or just favorites overall, here are some of mine:

Shawshenk Redemption, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, Pulp Fiction, Braveheart, The Big Lebowski, Cape Fear, The Departed, Gladiator, Fargo, No Country for Old Men, Seven, Forrest Gump, Good Will Hunting, The Bourne Identity, Supremacy, Ultimatum, Lord of the Rings, Spaceballs, Dumb and Dumber, Old School, 40 Year Old Virgin, Blazing Saddles, Half Baked…..

Tons more, but off the top of my head, those are some.

By Bubdylan

January 24, 2009 10:35 PM | Link to this

DOB, I haven’t seen Bulworth. I’ll add it to my Netflix, though.

By mbatl

January 24, 2009 10:35 PM | Link to this

From Bowman’s article on Schafer:

“I was 100 percent wrong,” said Schafer, whose link to HGH landed him a 50-game suspension last April. “One hundred percent, I deserve what I got. I accept my responsibility and my actions.”

Can we drop the Schafer-as-martyr theme? He doesn’t need to be the minor-league Curt Flood… he needs to learn to hit lefties.

By Tomas

January 24, 2009 10:37 PM | Link to this

ChipperFan,

Mike Hampton(15 million), John Smoltz(14 million), Tom Glavine(8 million), Will Ohman(1.6 million), Greg Norton, Mark Texeira(12.5) , Mark Kotsay(2 million), and Julian Tavarez(3.1 million) That’s a total of 58 million comming of the payroll. To that you have to substract the amount spent so far this offseason in FA’s, arbitration, and raises to Brian McCann and Rafael Soriano.

So you take those 58 million subtract them with FA’s, arbitration, trades(Javier Vazques), and raises to McCann and Soriano.

58 million - 54 million(tops depending on their arbitration cases) = For sure they 4 million left. They’ve said payroll would increase, and insurance MAY pay 50% of Tim Hudson salary(which is 13 million so insurance would pay 6.5 million(if he misses the whole year)). There is no way to tell how much they really have left, but they have at least 4 million.

By dogsbrekky

January 24, 2009 10:41 PM | Link to this

nolie I loved Rock n Rolla……

We just saw “Defiance” with 007 and Liev Shreiber, excellent movie……. well worth the $12.50

By dogsbrekky

January 24, 2009 10:41 PM | Link to this

PS “My Cousin Vinny” is on TBS-HD right now

By dogsbrekky

January 24, 2009 10:42 PM | Link to this

Back to baseball

“Glavine may look to Nationals”

see http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2009/01/glavine-shows-i.html

By Random

January 24, 2009 10:55 PM | Link to this

McFann—

Good morning!

If you like animated movies, here’s three I like from Hayao Miyazaki:

Spirited Away

Castle in the Sky

Howl’s Moving Castle

Have you seen any of these?

Also, Allegro non Troppo is good — it’s an Itlian take of Disney’s Fantasia.

Also, Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow is a winner, imo.

By Junior

January 24, 2009 11:07 PM | Link to this

Great columns everyday DOB….living in the good ole WV its nice to read good, legit info on my Braves…..if we bring in the o-dawg and bring andruw back for cheap im content….even with the pitching we have signed now im stoked about 2009….keep up the great work DOB…..

By Salty Dawg

January 24, 2009 11:10 PM | Link to this

Anders-

“I honestly don’t know all the specifics on the minor league testing deal etc. But if Schafer was so wronged then he’d be doing many a great service by naming names and bringing his injustice to the light of day. Maybe that would get this changed? He could be the Curt Flood of minor league steroid allegations. As for his name being stained forever - to be honest outside of Atlanta I don’t think more than 1 in a 100 average fan’s knows who he is.”

To each his own, I guess. To me you just don’t throw names out like that. For one thing, naming others wouldn’t clear his name or anything so why bother? And yes, I’m sure that outside of Atlanta nobody knows who he is. But what if? What if he develops and becomes a great hitter? What if he becomes a perennial All Star and future HOF candidate? In the age of the Internet nothing goes away. The better he becomes the more notoriety he gets and the more people dig into his past. If he ends up being a great player you can bet that he will always have the steroid cloud hanging over his head. Like I said, I don’t know if he used PEDs any more than you do. All I know is that MLB conducts these clandestine investigations and can basically do whatever they want to minor leaguers because they have no representation. They aren’t protected by the Players Association. They basically have no way to fight the charges. For all we know Shaffer is perfectly innocent, but who would believe him if MLB says otherwise?

By 18 Wheels of Love

January 24, 2009 11:10 PM | Link to this

Just saw Frost/Nixon. Excellent film. Ron Howard behind another winner. And Frank Langella just might has locked up best actor. I’ll own the DVD when it comes out.

By ColoradoBravesFan

January 24, 2009 11:18 PM | Link to this

Anyone know where…

I heard that Jason Heyward was going to be on XM radio todat at 2:30pm mountain time. Was this true, and did anyone hear his interview, or know if we can link to the interview?

GO BRAVOS…

By nolie

January 24, 2009 11:49 PM | Link to this

nolie I loved Rock n Rolla……DogsBrekky

As much as Snatch and Lock Stock? If so I guess we just gotta disagree… but attempt to co-exist on this here board. LOL.

By Brian22

January 25, 2009 12:06 AM | Link to this

DOB, Bullworth is awesome, if for only nappy dug out sake.

By Lew

January 25, 2009 12:10 AM | Link to this

Let’s not forget Boogie Nights. Maye Burt Reynolds didn’t really deserve that Oscar he was Nominated for (maybe he did), but Heather Graham as Roller Girl was more than worth the price of admission.

By Zach

January 25, 2009 12:23 AM | Link to this

DOB,

In terms of sports movies what about Tin Cup. Probably one of the best sports movies of all time.

In terms of the bravos what are you thinking the capacity Matt Dias will be used in next year?

By N Nine

January 25, 2009 12:35 AM | Link to this

Welcome to 2009’s OF clog: Frenchy,Anderson,Diaz,Blanco, Schafer , and sometimes norton plus now throw in Kelly Johnson and Andruw Jones? Did I mention B Jones? Who is really going to play?

I’m getting confused, good night

By nolie

January 25, 2009 12:47 AM | Link to this

The French film Wages of Fear was one of the tensest movies I saw. The Roy Scheider remake Sorcerer was also pretty good. The original The Narrow Margin is considered by many to be the best film noir ever, and the Hackman remake is decent too.

By nolie

January 25, 2009 12:51 AM | Link to this

In terms of sports movies what about Tin Cup. Probably one of the best sports movies of all time. Zach

I’m not a golf fan, but I love Tin Cup. The 4 leads play off each other well and some of the music is great. I think they dragged out that last over the pond scene a little too long though.

By Chop Chop

January 25, 2009 1:13 AM | Link to this

Lew,

“Boogie Nights” is one I haven’t seen in years. That fraudulent drug deal gone wrong scene with the firecracker-lightin’ Chinese dude (accompanied by Night Ranger’s “Sister Christian”) is a pure classic.

By uga-brave

January 25, 2009 1:29 AM | Link to this

dont rush the jordan parade,

i gotta a hunch he has issues.

By Wayne in Utah

January 25, 2009 1:36 AM | Link to this

Been on the road all day…

As for Orlando Hudson, I don’t necessarily think if the Braves make a play for him, it means they have soured on KJ at second. If they do go for Orlando, it will be because of 1 of 2 things (in my humble opinion).

1) They think they are better off with Kelly in left (and possibly covering third if Chipper is out any) and Hudson at second than any of the other choices out there (and the price associated with those choices)

OR

2) They think they can get the outfielder they covet with KJ as trade bait.

Either way, if that is what FW does, then I am ok with it either way.

I can’t tell you folks how much I would love to see Andruw with the tomahawk on his chest…..in Gwinnett, and Schafer patrolling CF for the Braves on opening day.

I also think Glavine would fit well…..with the Nationals this summer.

Time to move on folks….

But hey, I’m with FW no matter what he decides.

By Wayne in Utah

January 25, 2009 1:43 AM | Link to this

I don’t know *uga, the kid looks like a player to me. I also still think Lillibridge will have a decent career in baseball. Both of them looks like throw backs to me.

If we could pick up O-Hudson, do you think it would be a good deal to move KJ for a banger for left?? Ludwick?? Carlos Lee??? Alex Rios???

By nolie

January 25, 2009 2:07 AM | Link to this

If we could pick up O-Hudson, do you think it would be a good deal to move KJ for a banger for left?? Ludwick?? Carlos Lee??? Alex Rios??? Wayne

Why would they get Hudson and then trade Kelly for a LFer? Hudson is no upgrade to Johnson at bat and not much the last few years in the field either. If they keep Johnson and move him to left after getting Hudson, it would be the equivalent hitting-wise of adding Hudson to LF and he doesn’t hit enough for that. Eschew all the complications, keep Johnson and get a LFer, much easier, much cheaper and just as good for the team.

By Bravo Nam

January 25, 2009 2:25 AM | Link to this

DOB Loved your movie choices, particularly good to see you included two of my all-time faves: The Good, The Bad and the Ugly AND Once Upon a Time in America. Despite the length of both movies, both extremely entertaining, emotive and have superb soundtracks.

Here’s a couple of classic overseas movies: Raise the Red Lantern AND In the Realm of the Senses (made in the mid-70s, arguably the finest erotic film ever made).

Two movies no one ever mentions, but are in my top ten of all time: The Beguiled (with Clint Eastwood, set in the Civil War, found injured in the woods and brought to a type of women’s finishing school…he manipulates the affections of four girls/women and it ends up backfiring on him. Tense and sensuous, with a shocking ending) AND Inside Moves (also known as The Guys from Max’s Bar, starring John Savage and David Morse…one of the most uplifting and life affirming movies ever).

By David O'Brien

January 25, 2009 3:40 AM | Link to this

If you all have never seen The Gourds perform and get a chance, by all means go. As good as their CDs are, this is one band that must be seen live to fully appreciate. Excellent live band.

Saw them tonight at Smith’s in a place that was jam-packed with folks having a great time.

By the way, for some idea of what the band’s like, if you haven’t heard them, here’s the opening part of a Pitchfork review of The Gourds’ just-released CD titled Haymaker! :

“The exclamation point in the title of the Gourds’ latest album doesn’t lie: The Austin-based band plays an emphatic, exclamatory amalgam of Americana styles, ambling through pre-rock country, bluegrass, rockabilly, and Western swing. The Lone Star angle is essential in differentiating the band from the crowd of Appalachia-descended string bands who have sprung up in the Gourds’ wake; the Hackensaw Boys, the Avett Brothers, and Chatham County Line play many of the same instruments, but toward regionally and musically different ends. The Gourds draw from the same well as Doug Sahm, Willie Nelson, and Johnny Bush, which makes them part bar-band rockers and part ensemble pickers. In their live shows, they dig their spurs into a song and open up its possibilities, whether it’s a spirited original or an unlikely cover. Their stage presence is the key to their longevity, but their studio albums have become increasingly adventurous, with 2007’s Noble Creatures and now Haymaker! gradually closing the gap between their recorded material and their performances.

“The non-punctuation part of that album title refers to a knockout punch that floors your opponent. That might be overselling the album, but a dependable swing isn’t far off. Haymaker! is a typically witty, rambunctious album that shuffles up the band members like a deck of cards…”

By David O'Brien

January 25, 2009 3:50 AM | Link to this

Frankie Knuckles: Tough call on Highway Patrolman, since both the Boss’ original and The Man in Black’s cover are perfect songs. By the way, Dar Williams also did a good cover of the tune….

18 Wheels: I’ve heard Langella’s excellent. Got to see that movie this week. Maybe even Sunday night. But seriously, you think he’s got the Best Actor Oscar won? Have you seen The Wrestler or Milk? I’d really be surprised if anyone other than Rourke or Penn won this year. Frankly, I’d be surprised if anyone but Rourke one. That’s a tour de force by Rourke, one that I think is simply too powerful, too emotional, too compelling (given his own career path) for voters to pass over….

Samuel Stiles: What would we do without music and movies? (Not have nearly as much fun, that’s for sure.)

By GermanBravesFan

January 25, 2009 4:11 AM | Link to this

Darn, DOB… you are putting in late hours these days! 3:50 a.m.!!! Now THAT’s dedication!

By JC from UT

January 25, 2009 5:41 AM | Link to this

Did I read correctly that McCann and Chipper share the same agent, B.B. Abbott, who is actually a long time friend of Chipper? If this is true it is kind of interesting how Mac and Chipper conduct themselves in the same manner with the teams FO and fans alike. MLB needs more agents like B.B. Abbott.

By MARK

January 25, 2009 6:38 AM | Link to this

braves will be short on homeruns this year but looks like alot of doubles and some good batting averages.but power is really lacking we really dont have a legit 30-35 homer player.Chipper use to be but its more in the mid 20s in his older age however nice batting average.Its not good to have your catcher as the number 4 hitter because he probably wont play more than 140-45 games.I think KJ is going to have best year this season.look for us to finish a strong 3rd this season however play good baseball its going to be a strong division

By Random

January 25, 2009 7:49 AM | Link to this

nolie: “Why would they get Hudson and then trade Kelly for a LFer?”

I think it would be the other way around.

I think Wayne in Utah hit the nail on the head with his second scenario (“They think they can get the outfielder they covet with KJ as trade bait”).

I think that the only way the Braves downgrade at 2B from KJ to ODog is if they have to trade KJ to get the best LF available to them.

As you say, Wayne in Utah’s first scenario (“They think they are better off with Kelly in left (and possibly covering third if Chipper is out any) and Hudson at second than any of the other choices out there (and the price associated with those choices)”) is simply not credible. It does not pass Occam’s razor’s sniff test.

(KJ hasn’t taken a single snap at 3B in the majors — nor I think, on the farm. I really don’t think he’s an option there.)

By TommyP

January 25, 2009 8:31 AM | Link to this

The “sign Hudson and deal Kelly” people are confusing me.

If we sign Hudson, we’re talking about $10 mil annually, right?

Where’s the money now to pay for a LF???? Unless you’re saying the Ludwick deal would then be back on? (I believe he’s still cheap)

That’s the only way it could work.

By Random

January 25, 2009 8:32 AM | Link to this

JC from UT: “Did I read correctly that McCann and Chipper share the same agent, B.B. Abbott, who is actually a long time friend of Chipper? If this is true it is kind of interesting how Mac and Chipper conduct themselves in the same manner with the teams FO and fans alike. MLB needs more agents like B.B. Abbott.”

This is true. Jet Sports Management/BB Abbott also count Brandon Jones and Chuck James among their clients.

Also Cody Johnson, Dustin Evans, Chris Resop and Macay McBride.

Chipper: “I cannot think of anyone in the world that I would rather have handling my money, my contracts, or my career than Jet Sports Management. They have proven time and again to be worthy of my trust, loyalty and respect. In today’s sports world, that is truly saying something. In fact, it says everything.”

3BMac: “When it came time to choose a firm to represent me, I wanted to find a company that could provide me with everything I needed to help my career. I wanted a firm that knew and respected the game, an attorney that had a background in negotiating deals in baseball and in business, a smaller company where I wasn’t just another player on their client list, and a group that I knew was going to represent the values, ethics and hard work that I have strived for in my career. I stopped looking when I found Jet Sports Management.”

Macay: “B.B. and the entire staff are not only exceptional in their field, but they are friends first. You will not find that kind of service anywhere.”

Btw, Smoltz, Heyward, Cox and Francoeur share Career Sports & Entertainment, as do Kyle Davies, Mark Derosa and Ron Mahay; Doc Rivers, Reggie Theus, Lenny Wilkens and Mike Fratello; Erin Andrews, Chip Caray, EJ, Jr and Joe Simpson.

By 18 Wheels of Love

January 25, 2009 8:34 AM | Link to this

DOB,

Did The Gourds play their cover of ‘Gin and Juice’? Honestly that’s the only thing I have heard them play.

I haven’t seen the Wrestler or Milk yet, so my claim was surely premature…plan to see them soon. His performance is excellent.

By Steve McP

January 25, 2009 9:09 AM | Link to this

Tommy P - signing Hudson would be akin to the Furcal deal that fell through, KJ would move to LF and Hudson would slot in as 2B, so no big bat signing for OF - no money left anyway if Hudson was signed.

By dave

January 25, 2009 9:13 AM | Link to this

Bring back Don Sutton? Yes Sir!

Bring back Andruw? No Way!

By richbrave

January 25, 2009 9:16 AM | Link to this

Slow news day. Make my day - sign OHMAN and KOTCHMAN, FRANK.

By albert

January 25, 2009 9:17 AM | Link to this

Schafer’s comments about “hanging with the wrong crowd” are interesting in that part of that “wrong crowd” may be other players in the Braves minor league system.

By TommyP

January 25, 2009 9:32 AM | Link to this

Steve McP: Hudson does not bring to the Braves what Furcal would have. SPEED.

I’ve always felt Hudson was a product of the move to Arizona’s hitting environment.

At any rate, we move Kelly to LF and we haven’t addressed the most glaring need of the Braves. A power bat in LF.

The Schafer thing doesn’t add up. Suspended for hanging out with the wrong crowd? What??? If he didn’t have it in his possession or didn’t fail a drug test, how can a suspension hold up?

By BlawgDawg

January 25, 2009 9:35 AM | Link to this

I’ll throw another kind of Top Ten out similar to movies. Top Ten HBO Original Series

1. The Wire 2. The Sopranoes 3. Band of Brothers 4. Deadwood 5. Rome 6. Entourage 7. Six Feet Under 8. Curb Your Enthusiasm 9. True Blood 10. Big Love

Also loved Def Comedy Jam back in the day, but don’t see that as a series such as those above. I’m probably forgetting one or two from years ago that I might would include on this list above True Blood and Big Love, but I know the Top Five are set.

By Coach Smith

January 25, 2009 9:58 AM | Link to this

gotta jump in on the MOVIES thing

It’s a Wonderful Life

Goodwill Hunting

Rocky

Die Hard

Jaws

Trading Places

Point Break

Forest Gump

Indiana Jones Trilogy

Star Wars Trilogy (the original and how can you separate them)

Ghostbusters

Karate Kid

Major League (no love for this one yet?)

Pirates of the Carrabean

Beverly Hills Cop

Goonies

Stand by Me

Top Gun

By cvbraves

January 25, 2009 10:04 AM | Link to this

Ad at top of blog page reads “Share a feel good story.” Here’s mine.

Sign Glavine! Extend Chipper’s contract! Add a power bat! Sign Ohman!

However, I do see this morning where: Smoltz (oops, insert Glavine) could sign with Nats (oops, insert Bosox).

Knew I had seen that headline somewhere a month or so ago.

No sweat, worst that could happen is Hanson would fill that No. 5 spot.

Also kind of feeling like one of my favorites, KJ, may be among the missing soon. Seems like Roberts or Hudson, AND Ankiel or Ludwick may be in the Braves future?

By Coach Smith

January 25, 2009 10:09 AM | Link to this

How about a list of ALL TIMES BEST TV SHOWS????

Buffy the Vampire Slayer (cult hit that is the reason that supernatural themed shows are accepted as mainstream now)

Entourage

X-files

Smallville

Friends (only true comedy on my list..tome tv shows must be mostly unique, have great writing, complex characters and complex character development, and for the most part be serials not procedurals)

Supernatural (think Dukes of Hazard meets Buffy the Vampire Slayer and add in a way darker gritter feel)

House

Sopranos

Bones

Angel

Lost

Veronica Mars

By ChipperFan

January 25, 2009 10:16 AM | Link to this

DOB

Thanks for setting me straight. I knew $24m was high, but I do still think we’ve got cashola for an OF. In fact, Wren himself was asked after the Lowe signing if we still had the money to get a bat, and he replied, “yes.”

So I’m holding out hope that we don’t need to do a trade and don’t need to move Kelly to Left. I want us to sign a bat (Dunn or Abreu).

By KC

January 25, 2009 10:18 AM | Link to this

Yahoo sport reports that Glavine will consider signing with Nationals.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 25, 2009 10:29 AM | Link to this

Hey DOB

Any guess or idea about Lemke’s return to the booth? Have not heard a lot about his name during all this Powell/Sutton stuff. Also, knowing Powell’s approach, will he be fulltime play by play or will it be a switch off with Sutton half way though? I figure you have not heard for sure, but thought maybe you had a hunch or guess how the radio booth may function this coming season.

By Wayne in Utah

January 25, 2009 10:32 AM | Link to this

Random I think you’ve hit the nail on the head that I hit the nail on the head with my second point last night. I really don’t buy my first contention, as that is not the way the Braves operate normally. I just put it in there because it was a possibility in my way of thinking.

Actually, I have long espoused the idea of having an ultra back-up for the corner infielder and outfield positions, and a guy like KJ would be perfect for that, but I think in the Braves way of thinking, KJ is too valuable as an everyday second baseman to use him as a super utility guy.

Later….

By McFann O –[zzz] (Braves Fann For Life)

January 25, 2009 10:33 AM | Link to this

Random—

Good morning!

No, I haven’t seen those. I’ve seen the Fantasia show at Disney’s MGM Studios, though…

BTW—Thanks for those quotes from Chipper and 3BMac. Good stuff. Glad they share an agent—and a good one!

By The Artist Formerly Known as Too Hot For Teacher

January 25, 2009 10:34 AM | Link to this

Coach Smith - good call on Major League - that’s a GREAT movie. In high school once I tried to go out to the mound with a leather jacket on and tried to get the PA guy to play Wild Thing (it was a JV-Varsity intrasquad). Randy Quaid is the all time greatest fan in the history of sports and if Bob Uecker was the Braves announcer and called games like he does in that movie I would never go the Ted, I’d sit at home and listen to him.

By Dadgum

January 25, 2009 10:43 AM | Link to this

Drive By Truckers…….dutifully submitted review from last night’s concert at The National in Richmond, VA.

First, I must state that this is the very first time I have heard the DBT’s. Nothing to compare it to. Going solo here. Although I sat next to some dude who was seeing them for the 5th time. He was 40 something maybe 50. Figured they had to be good (I mean DOB is about that age roughly and he heaps praise on them).

They opened with Roses and Dirt. Solid but nothing spectacular. Ah, laying low to open. Got it. By the time they hit their 4th song, Carl Perkins Cadillac, they were in full stride. Damn I like that song. A lot. Not knowing all the titles made little difference. The guitar work in that group is just about as good and talented as it gets.

Gotta love a band that swigs Jack Daniels between songs and gives you a large rock (with a country edge) sound. They went through about 20 of their songs. “Fly” off their new album hung with the rest of the songs. They did a powerful cover of “Let’s talk about love” from Van Halen. Serious guitar stuff right there.

Patterson Hood and Mike Cooley obviously carry the band but Shonna(?) on bass can flat play. Pounds it beat for beat with the underrated drummer. She can’t sing great but, well, who cares. She fits right in and swigs the juice as well. The new guy replacing Isbell is just phenomenal on slide and pedal steel. Not real sure how good Isbell is but I can tell you this guy is simply wonderful. The keyboard dude was so understated and in teh background I feel confident he is good but hard to say.

As soon as they finished one song, bam, they started in on another. This group likes being there and playing. Loves the crowd and loves what they are doing. It shows. This was a sold out show as was the night before in Baltimore. Not once did they appear to be going through the motions.

The crowd, aged between 17 and 70, was into it from the first note. 1,500 and many dancing in the aisles. To me the sound is a throw back to the great rock groups of the 70’s with a 21st century twist. Can’t explain it. Just the way it is to me. I mean I can see Skynyrd, Zeppelin, The Clash, The Dead, The Who in there somewhere. Tons of influences thrown into a blender and DBT’s is what you get.

The National is quite a venue. A renovated turn of the century (prior century) theatre. Gorgeously ornamented ceilings, great views, near perfect acoustics. Hood commented a couple of times about the acoustics “hope it sounds as great out there as it does up here”. It did for over 2 hours.

I came away tremendously impressed with The Truckers. The $20 ticket seemed a steal(the $5 12 oz. beers did not). I’m gonna buy their cd’s. I am a fan. It’s a new year and I have a new group plus an even greater appreciation of DOB’s musical tastes. If you haven’t seen them live, well, do it.

Rock on…….Whiskey and Women

By Billy Walsh

January 25, 2009 10:45 AM | Link to this

Glavine at this point is a luxury..it would be nice to have a 300 game winner as your 5th starter. If the braves sign Hudson to play 2nd, would that be the best braves defensive infield ever? Move KJ to left…or trade him? Ludwig did have a great year last year..but he has a history of injuries and has only played one full season in the majors. Ankiel would be a one year rental. I feel that KJ is too streaky and I don not see him breaking that mold anytime soon..but I would not trade him for Ankiel or Ludwig. Roberts would be a nice addition, but the Orioles seem to change their minds about trading or signing him to an extension by the hour. Its not easy being a GM

By dogsbrekky

January 25, 2009 11:04 AM | Link to this

“The Wire” - thanks everyone for talking about this show, never heard of it so am now ordering it online…. let you know what I think…….

I think KJ’s name comes up as trade bait because he seems to be the only proven trade bait we have.. I have a feeling he is going to get better and better with his hitting and improve his fielding… his line drive ratio was improving and his end of the season in 08’ was awesome

what about this scenario….. Frenchy starts strong and we trade his a* for Ludwick ???

By dogsbrekky

January 25, 2009 11:04 AM | Link to this

“The Wire” - thanks everyone for talking about this show, never heard of it so am now ordering it online…. let you know what I think…….

I think KJ’s name comes up as trade bait because he seems to be the only proven trade bait we have.. I have a feeling he is going to get better and better with his hitting and improve his fielding… his line drive ratio was improving and his end of the season in 08’ was awesome

what about this scenario….. Frenchy starts strong and we trade his a* for Ludwick ???

By Lew

January 25, 2009 11:05 AM | Link to this

KC-Even if he does, do you seriously think Glavine is the missing link in the Nats plans? Do you seriously feel he would even pull them out of last place?

By KC

January 25, 2009 11:09 AM | Link to this

That Yahoo story on Glavine was simply reaped from mlb.com. Didn’t realize that when I first saw it.

The article did state that his preference is to remain with ATL.

By David O'Brien

January 25, 2009 11:17 AM | Link to this

Dadgum, great to hear the review of a first-time Truckers concert attendee. Glad to see you enjoyed them as much as so many of us have. They really are one of the very best live acts I’ve ever seen, and I’ve yet to see them put on anything but a pedal-to-the-floor show. As you pointed out, they don’t go through the motions — they love to rock up there and seem to have as much, if not more, of a blast as those of us out in the crowd.

And you nailed it with their musical influences and the throwback (in nothing but good ways) sound.

By rudyt

January 25, 2009 11:17 AM | Link to this

I agree with earlier post ——- save prospects and sign Dunn or Abreu. We need more power out of the LF spot! Trading for Roberts would be great and would get the leadoff hitter we have needed for awhile but it does not address the lack of power in LF. How about trade KJ and a prospect for Roberts and sign Dunn or Abreu. Problems solved!

By David O'Brien

January 25, 2009 11:18 AM | Link to this

ChipperFan: No doubt they have the money go get a bat. And I’d think they have the money to get a bat and Will Ohman, too.

By David O'Brien

January 25, 2009 11:22 AM | Link to this

18 Wheels: Unfortunately, they didn’t play Gin & Juice. I love their cover of that Snoop tune. But I think they probably view that as a novelty song to pull out once in a while, not one of the core songs they play most every night.

dogsbrekky: if you don’t like The Wire, well, might be best to keep it to yourself. (OK, kidding … but only sort of.)

By David O'Brien

January 25, 2009 11:24 AM | Link to this

RichBrave: Why would signing Kotchman make your day? By that I mean, he’s going to be under contract and playing for the Braves, regardless of whether they sign him now or go to arbitration with him.

By N Nine

January 25, 2009 11:26 AM | Link to this

Simple math: Sign Ohman+ acquire a decent bat=playball!!!!!!

By dogsbrekky

January 25, 2009 11:32 AM | Link to this

DOB - I think the % chances of me not liking “THE WIRE” are minimal, given the quality of movies selected by Wire lovers on this forum..

Am going out to see Mall Cop - Paul Blart later, critics blasted it but movie goer reviews seem good, nothing like silly humor

By cvbraves

January 25, 2009 11:40 AM | Link to this

DOB writes that Braves have the “money” for a bat and to re-sign Ohman. That being the case, I’d prefer keeping KJ at second so we could take advantage of the 25 homers and 75 RBI’s he’ll have this year (plus an OBP around .500). In addition, he seems be a team player with great character…in the mold of Chipper, McCann and others.

By Salty Dawg

January 25, 2009 11:41 AM | Link to this

dogsbrekky-

“what about this scenario….. Frenchy starts strong and we trade his a* for Ludwick ???”

If Frenchy starts strong, indicating that he has indeed “figured some things out”, what then would be the point of trading him for Ludwick? They are basically in the same position except that Ludwick (I believe) has one more year left in arb than Francouer does. Ludwick has had one break out year after several mediocre to average years. Francouer has had one bad year after two above average years. If Frenchy turns things around this season and proves that last year was an anomaly, my guess is the Braves will have little desire to trade him. After all, he did seem suited to be the “face of the franchise”. And I think he is wildly popular with the average fan, at least before his struggles last year.

By N Nine

January 25, 2009 11:47 AM | Link to this

Having a veteran LEFTY is huge. Were featuring an all right handed starting rotation. Having Ohman coming in for key matchups will help Bobby out greatly..

By dogsbrekky

January 25, 2009 11:56 AM | Link to this

Salty - I am strongly of the view that Frenchy has been deteriorating since basically 2007 but given that he had 100+ rbi years will get us something if he does start well… I am NOT convinced that he will ever be an uber outfielder/slugger with his slash at anything swing…….

By dogsbrekky

January 25, 2009 11:56 AM | Link to this

Salty - I am strongly of the view that Frenchy has been deteriorating since basically 2007 but given that he had 100+ rbi years will get us something if he does start well… I am NOT convinced that he will ever be an uber outfielder/slugger with his slash at anything swing…….

By rotty

January 25, 2009 11:59 AM | Link to this

Unless there is a trade looming with KJ I don’t see why Wren would sign Hudson. Originally I was intrigued by the idea and there is no question Hudson is a more developed 2B but we need a slugger.

This is where the Braves get themselves into trouble - odd, money driven moves to save a few million that don’t address the real issue. Just get someone who is cheap and has some skills. A move for the sake of making a move.

They need a slugging LF period. Not a potential slugger (KJ in that spot or some one year wonder), a platoon of 4th OF (mess we have today), not a new 2B, not a new SS etc.

They have options - Abreu & Dunn - not perfect options to be sure but they fit a fair portion of the bill - HR/RBIs 4 hole hitters.

Say Hudson can be had for 6-7mm (I doubt it will be much less in the end) and Abreu and Dunn are 8-9mm. Is it worth moving KJ to LF or trading him for a Ludwick b/c he is cheap (& frankly we don’t know what he will do given his limited ML track record) in order to save a few million?

You can likely get Abreu or Dunn for a 1-2+ (Dunn)yr deal so you are not making a long term commitment. Low risk potential high reward AND you directly address a glaring problem.

Again this is how the Braves hurt themselves they always revert to a penny wise and a pound foolish strategy two feet from the finish line. When they can put people away with one or two more moves they stop short (like George Castanza’s father) or worse do nothing to save a few bucks.

They convince themselves the glaring hole from previous season is somehow not as bad in January when in fact only time has made the problem look less significant.

We saw this with JS and we are seeing it with Wren (possibly if he turns his nose up at Abreu & Dunn if they are under 10mm).

The rotation is fixed Frank so just get Dunn or Abreu, keep KJ and focus on ST already. :)

By Billy Walsh

January 25, 2009 12:12 PM | Link to this

Cvbraves

What gives you the indication that Kelly is going hit 25 hr and drive in 75 and have an on base % of over 500? His career high in homers 16 and RBI is 69. 334, 375, 349..the next logical step is 500? Where you talking about slugging % (even there he is not close to 500) Kelly strikes out way too much and walks way too little to have a high on base percentage. Hes a nice player..but those numbers that you feel that he is going to produce next season would make him an elite second basemen.

By Salamander

January 25, 2009 12:18 PM | Link to this

rudyt I agree that we should hold on to our prospects and sign a corner outfielder with pop (as opposed to trading for one), but I just don’t agree with you, or anyone else who suggests trading KJ is a good idea - especially for one year of Brian Roberts at $8 million.

I know we lack a true lead-off hitter, but if I was Wren, I’d keep KJ and take a chance that someone in spring training emerges as a decent top of the order bat.

By Lew

January 25, 2009 12:21 PM | Link to this

dogsbrekky-So what if Francoeur never becomes Hank Aaron? How many people actually have? You’re upset because he knocked in 100 runs twice in three full seasons and won a Gold Glove in right because he throws runners out? You’re upset he isn’t an appropriate “Face of the Franchise? Whatever.

Quite honestly, I would be happy to see those 100 RBI seasons on a regular basis. I couldn’t care less what Sports Illustrated felt his upside should be. I couldn’t care less if he never is in the top ten in OBP. When Frenchy is on his game he is a productive batter and he has a devastating arm. He is willing to work to improve himself. That is a contributor in my book and that’s what you look for in a player.

I really can’t understand why so many are so p!$$ed off that he never became “The Natural”. Quite honestly-so what? Get over it. He is what he is and just because y’all think he should conform to your definitions of who and what he is and should be don’t mean Diddly and it’s time you realized it.

By Tom

January 25, 2009 12:29 PM | Link to this

DOB—We’re starting to hear about players from other teams that might be likely to be traded because they are out of options (Brent Clevlen of the Tigers, Rich Hill of the Cubs and of course Felix Pie who was already traded). Do you have a list of Braves’ players that will camp without any remaining minor-league options?

By dogsbrekky

January 25, 2009 12:35 PM | Link to this

Lew I never said I WAS UPSET or a Frenchy hater, I am saying that I would trade him (with value) for something I perceive as more valuable, nothing sinister in it at all.

I understand he is a beloved local and we have the policy of taking on local talent. I have also seen such a strategy turn ugly in many other sports and cities when said local talent was held onto versus said trade/s for better value, that is all.

I actually like Jeff but think we should have left him in AA/AAA last year (when demoted), to work on some things he really needs (once again nothing sinister in it).

What we really need is 2 assured outfield mashers not the worst OF (2008) in MLB and I pray I am not correct on this one.

By Yars

January 25, 2009 12:38 PM | Link to this

If all this Orlando Hudson talk does become a reality, & if we find a LF either via FA signing or trade, & KJ is traded, how would that team KJ is traded to view him? Would they see him as a LF or 2B? I’m wondering if Hudson is signed, other teams would then start thinking that KJ can’t cut it as a 2B?

By Anders

January 25, 2009 12:47 PM | Link to this

*KC-Even if he does, do you seriously think Glavine is the missing link in the Nats plans? Do you seriously feel he would even pull them out of last place? -LEW

Not if they need a win in September to get out of last. Sorry - it was just sitting there waiting to be said.

By KC

January 25, 2009 12:50 PM | Link to this

Lew: No, I never said anything of the sort about Glavine/Nats… just passing along the story.

By Lew

January 25, 2009 12:53 PM | Link to this

dogsbrekky-Dude, If you read what I said, it wasn’t just you I was coming down on-it’s the general tone associated with the subject. If the Kid is as bad as everyone seems to think, then why would he be a viable trade piece? If he’s not, then we keep him. To suggest he should be traded if he gets off to a quick start (as someone suggested-don’t remember if it was you and I really don’t feel like checking) is absurdity personified.

All I know (and really care about) was that in 06 and 07 there was NO ONE-not even Pujols- with a better track record of two out RBI. THAT is something important and not the rest of the crap constantly spouted about him. Don’t take it personally, but I’m just tired of the nonsensical blather on the subject. Like I said-he is what he is and when he’s on, that ain’t as bad as a lot of Denizens seem to think.

Oh and one more thing-I couldn’t care less if he’s from Atlanta, ever does a commercial or is the face of the franchise or not. All of that is nothing but a total bunch of meaningless malarky and of zero significance..

By KC

January 25, 2009 12:56 PM | Link to this

Is Orland Hudson a fit for Atlanta? No, O.Hudson wouldn’t bring the kind of speed to the table that a Furcal or B.Roberts would. BUT he gives you a good on-base%, puts the ball in play, and though he’s not a base-stealer, he does run well… so he’s very capable of leading off.

And if Hudson bats leadoff, that allows Escobar to hit 2nd, and KJ 7th, where they’re best suited. He’s a solid hitter, and would help the rest of the lineup fall into place. So in that sense, he could help this team.

On the other hand, though he’s a switch hitter… he hit .321 against righties last year, but only .269 against lefties.

At this point, it might be best to add hitters that reduce our vulnerability to left-handed pitchers. Particularly given that BOTH of our division rivals have left-handed aces, and both have at least one more lefty in their rotation that tends to pitch well against us (assuming O.Perez re-signs in NY).

Also, though Hudson’s numbers are solid, I’m not entirely convinced that we couldn’t get the same production if we let Prado play every day. Or for that matter, if you paired Matt Diaz (who KJ would replace in the lineup with a move to LF to accomodate O.Hudson) with any decent platoon partner, I think you’d get numbers as good as or better then Hudson’s.

Heck, though Diaz didn’t seize the every-day-play opportunity early last season (before getting hurt), I’m not convinced that Diaz isn’t capable of equaling Hudson’s numbers, if he’s given a second chance at the LF job.

I don’t know… On the one hand, he’s a solid hitter who would allow the rest of the lineup to fall into place. On the other hand, he adds neither speed nor power, and doesn’t hit lefties all that well. I know nothing about his defense. If he’s a gold glove caliber second-baseman, that might push me off the fence… but right now, I’m pretty lukewarm on the idea of adding Hudson.

By Lew

January 25, 2009 1:01 PM | Link to this

KC-The point of it all is that Glavine is likely to NOT be a piece of any significance to the Nats, the Braves, or any other team. He is no longer a difference maker. He’s a 42 year old soft tossing pitcher who had a great career but is coming off of serious surgery.

If the Nats are in last place the day before the season ends and Glavine is the one to pull them out of last place, then wonderful-it will give his life even more meaning, I’m sure.

I fail to see the point you were making, anyway. Should we really be upset if he DOES sign with someone else? How exactly will it affect us as Braves’ fans? If he does finish his career with the Braves and contributes then it’s great. If not? Whatever. We have a pretty good staff with him or without him. If he makes the team, he shouldn’t be more than a number five guy, anyway-and that to the detriment of some younger guy with more upside who might need the innings to help with THEIR development.

By Tomas

January 25, 2009 1:02 PM | Link to this

DOB,

If you had to guess, how much will, Will Ohman make(per year)?

By Tom

January 25, 2009 1:03 PM | Link to this

DOB—One more thing I’ve also been wondering. I know you would share the info if you knew the exact breakdown of Kawakami’s contract (which we still haven’t heard). But I was curious; are the Braves not required to share that information somehow? I mean in the original press release for Omar Infante’s contract, it said “terms were not disclosed,” yet it wasn’t hours after the announcement that you had the exact details.

I guess my question is are we ever going to hear the details on Kawakami’s details, or is the organization keeping those under wraps? If they do want to keep them quiet, why would they want to do that?

As always, many thanks for your hard work…love this blog.

By David O'Brien

January 25, 2009 1:14 PM | Link to this

Tom, they absolutely are not required to share any contract info. It’s usually leaked to one or two members of the media, the exact breakdown of every contract, including all the details about incentives, signins bonuses, other perks (some players get a suite on the road, for instance) and all other points. This one, for whatever reason, wasn’t leaked.

But as I told you, the amount is just over $7 mill per year, not frontloaded or backloaded, just the same salary each year, and a bonus worth less than $2 mill.

Eventually, probably soon, the exact details of the contract will be available. But if you’re computing, just figure a little less than $8 mill per season (prorated shares of signing bonuses are included in average annual salary for payroll purposes).

By Steve from OH

January 25, 2009 1:29 PM | Link to this

DOB, does that mean that it is possible that an organization could not disclose any of their players’ contracts, on or off the record, no leaks, and no one would have any idea how much each player is making or what the overall team payroll is? Or are there other ways of getting contract terms than asking the organization or the player?

I suppose it falls in the same vein as you wouldn’t want the ajc telling everyone what your salary is, correct?

By ncgary

January 25, 2009 1:32 PM | Link to this

sign manny @2 for 50 with a 30 million vesting option if he hits 100 homers and 300 rbis with manny after a goal like this you probably wouldnt need a loogy

By dogsbrekky

January 25, 2009 1:34 PM | Link to this

Lew - yes I take your points re Frenchy.

As far as Tommy Glavine goes, try wearing an Atlanta Braves Tommy G shirt in New York city nowadays. I had someone actually threaten me the other day about Glavine. Fortunately I am big enough to defend myself and the aforementioned Cy winner… having said that I would NOT sign Tommy again as much as I love the dude.

By Salty Dawg

January 25, 2009 1:35 PM | Link to this

dogsbrekky-

“I am strongly of the view that Frenchy has been deteriorating since basically 2007 but given that he had 100+ rbi years will get us something if he does start well… I am NOT convinced that he will ever be an uber outfielder/slugger with his slash at anything swing…….”

Neither am I convinced that Francouer will be an “uber outfielder/slugger”. But I am less convinced that Ludwick will be that guy. I’m not saying Francouer shouldn’t be traded, just that trading him for Ludwick doesn’t make sense. Especially if he turns things around. In 3 years Frenchy had two pretty good seasons and one really bad one. In several years Ludwick has only had one good season. You think Francouer has been deteriorating since 2007? Maybe so. He has only played 3 seasons at the major league level and not very many in the minors. It is understandable for him to decline after such a great start. Players normally start slow and get better over time. Very few guys come up and have a great year right away. Very hard to maintain that level of play once pitchers make adjustments. He just has to mature and make some adjustments of his own. If he does that, no reason to think Francouer can’t develop into an above average OF.

By THE BEAR

January 25, 2009 1:36 PM | Link to this

If the Braves could get an outfielder who could hit .290 and 25 HR’s, with an OBP of .350 and a SLG of .450 would you put him in the No. 4 slot?

Based on past performance and his hitting in the last six weeks of 2008 those numbers look highly possible for Kelly Johnson. When I compare those numbers with what Dunn or Abrieu would bring and then look at the money I would be inclined to go with KJ as my left fielder.

As a bonus he hits both lefties and righties. As a matter of fact in .08 he hit lefties at the rate of .333 while hitting righties at .270. There is surely no reason to ever platoon KJ.

By spolarbear72

January 25, 2009 1:44 PM | Link to this

HEY DOB WHAT DO U THINK OF THE 80’S MOVIE PUMP UP THE VOLUME. IT HAD A YOUNG CHRISTIAN SLATER IN IT.

By Earth to ncgary

January 25, 2009 1:49 PM | Link to this

“sign manny @2 for 50”

How can the Braves afford that? Hello?

By Anders

January 25, 2009 1:52 PM | Link to this

I had someone actually threaten me the other day about Glavine. Dogsbrekky

Was that you? Sorry, something about that #47 in blue and orange that makes me see red. :)

By David O'Brien

January 25, 2009 2:05 PM | Link to this

Steve from OH: No, because the salary leaks aren’t usually from the team, but rather from agents or from NY (I’ll just leave it at, that’s where the both the union and MLB offices are located).

By ncgary

January 25, 2009 2:11 PM | Link to this

simple start up a www.fansdonateformannycontract.com

By David O'Brien

January 25, 2009 2:11 PM | Link to this

Saw this on Buster Olney’s ESPN.com blog today:

“Even if you include pitchers, Andruw Jones is one of the worst hitters in the majors against right-handed pitching. He had an OPS of .436 in 2008 against righties, with one homer in 136 at-bats. That was a lower OPS than that of hitting immortals Tim Lincecum, Aaron Cook and Matt Cain.”

By David O'Brien

January 25, 2009 2:12 PM | Link to this

One other good stats note from Buster in that blog:

“The most difficult pitcher in the majors against whom to square the baseball, of anybody who threw 40 or more innings, was Oakland’s Joey Devine. Opponents mustered a .170 slugging percentage against him, with only three doubles, no triples and no homers in 45.2 innings.”

By ncgary

January 25, 2009 2:14 PM | Link to this

ncgary 2 reality:

why strive for reality when you can nonconform and live in a state of delusion.

makes life much more interesting. lol

By Eeyore Cox

January 25, 2009 2:22 PM | Link to this

“The most difficult pitcher in the majors against whom to square the baseball, of anybody who threw 40 or more innings, was Oakland’s Joey Devine. Opponents mustered a .170 slugging percentage against him, with only three doubles, no triples and no homers in 45.2 innings.”

No! Say it isn’t so! It’s a hoax, an untruth, a trick…it’s a LIE. Devine can’t pitch! Certainly not full innings! Send him to the minors.

By Deluded Fan

January 25, 2009 2:24 PM | Link to this

“Even if you include pitchers, Andruw Jones is one of the worst hitters in the majors against right-handed pitching. He had an OPS of .436 in 2008 against righties, with one homer in 136 at-bats. That was a lower OPS than that of hitting immortals Tim Lincecum, Aaron Cook and Matt Cain.”

Sounds great, sign him up!

By cvbraves

January 25, 2009 2:31 PM | Link to this

A thought!

Keep KJ. Forget the LF bat for now. Don’t sign Ohman (possibly Logan, O’Flaherty and/or Ridgeway could get it done as the bullpen lefty). Don’t sign Glavine.

Take the money for the “bat”, Ohman, and Glavine that is apparently available for these moves (should be about $13 mil)…and extend Chipper’s contract for three years. Might be one of the best moves in baseball this winter.

By nolie

January 25, 2009 2:41 PM | Link to this

Again this is how the Braves hurt themselves they always revert to a penny wise and a pound foolish strategy two feet from the finish line. When they can put people away with one or two more moves they stop short (like George Castanza’s father) or worse do nothing to save a few bucks.

They convince themselves the glaring hole from previous season is somehow not as bad in January when in fact only time has made the problem look less significant.

We saw this with JS and we are seeing it with Wren (possibly if he turns his nose up at Abreu & Dunn if they are under 10mm).

The rotation is fixed Frank so just get Dunn or Abreu, keep KJ and focus on ST already. :) Rotty

I’m not sure that this is really true, but it feels true to a larger extent than I am happy with. And as you say, just sign an OFer without all the complications. Finish it off for once.

By Random

January 25, 2009 3:08 PM | Link to this

Steve McP: “Tommy P - signing Hudson would be akin to the Furcal deal that fell through, KJ would move to LF and Hudson would slot in as 2B, so no big bat signing for OF - no money left anyway if Hudson was signed.”

“Never gonna happen, my friend.” (Never was going to happen even if we signed Furcal.)

nolie’s right (and TommyP) — that’s a zero sum, losing proposition you got there.

richbrave: “Make my day - sign OHMAN and KOTCHMAN, FRANK.”

Kotchman’s signed, bud — it’s just a question of how much for.

By KC

January 25, 2009 3:13 PM | Link to this

Lew: I’m not going to be heartbroken if Glavine were to leave or retire. I think there would be some definite positives in having the 5th spot of the rotation open for the likes of Hanson, Morton, or Reyes (with Campillo as the ins. policy).

BUT… I’m not at all convinced that Glavine is washed up. IF his arm is healthy, and Glavine hasn’t lost any velocity, I think he can still be effective. Again, that is IF - and only if - his arm is as good as it was in 2007.

In 2007, Glavine notched 23 quality starts, which is territory usually reserved for aces in that category. Obviously “quality starts” is a stat with limited value… but it DOES have value. It tells you have often a start gives his team a good chance to win. Glavine’s 07 ERA was deceptive because he took some severe beatings in a handful of his starts. But most of the time, he did a great job of giving his team a chance to win.

So again, the question is “Can his arm be as healthy and strong as it was in 07”? If so, I think he can help. Jamie Moyer is 4 years older and has been very effective. Moyer of course is also a soft-tosser. Glavine is cut from the same mold, so if he’s truly healthy, I don’t see why we shouldn’t want him on this team.

Sure his health is a question mark, but how cares? If he goes down, we’ll just do what we’re going to do anyway if he doesn’t re-sign (give the kids a shot). Low risk… possibly significant reward.

By Random

January 25, 2009 3:33 PM | Link to this

Wayne in Utah — By Jove, I think you’ve hit the nail on the head that I hit the nail on the head that you hit the nail on the head with your second point last night.

8-P

WiU: “Actually, I have long espoused the idea of having an ultra back-up for the corner infielder and outfield positions, and a guy like KJ would be perfect for that, but I think in the Braves way of thinking, KJ is too valuable as an everyday second baseman to use him as a super utility guy.”

I think Infante comes closer to that aspiration than KJ.

Okay, assuming KJ’s got the arm (from his OF days — don’t know, but let’s just say), he still don’t have the range or the hands that are even more necessary for 3B than for 2B. Imo.

By cvbraves

January 25, 2009 3:55 PM | Link to this

Scratch the previous post..dumb! Don’t need any of this year’s fund to extend Chipper’s contract…but extend his contract.

Take the money available for a power bat ($8mil), don’t resign Ohman (4 mil), don’t sign Glavine ($3 mil), save the $5 mil or more you’d save in not doing a deal for Roberts or Hudson…that’s $20 mil.

Call Mr. Boras and sign Manny for 3 years at $20 mil.

Refill the pot for next year with funds from the over abundance of fans packing the stadium during the season as well as this year’s playoff and world series receipts.

By Random

January 25, 2009 3:55 PM | Link to this

McFann — Yer welcome.

I suspicioned you might appreciate that “McQuote”.

Coach Smith —

Buffy

Angel

Duchovny X-Files

Mad About You (“Never gonna happen, my friend.”)

Barney Miller

Hill Street Blues

Saint Elsewhere

LA Law

Picket Fences

Second Chances (?)

The Practice

The Simpsons

King of the Hill

Futurama

Family Guy

& (of course) The Rockford Files

And for me & McFann — Kim Possible!!! (& Sailor Moon & Invader Zim.)

By nolie

January 25, 2009 4:23 PM | Link to this

& (of course) The Rockford Files Random

Love it…and it’s semi-offspring Magnum PI. Remember Selleck played a super P I in 3 episodes of Rockford. I wonder if Tom regrets taking Magnum since he was the first choice for the Indiana Jones movies but had to turn it down.

By Random

January 25, 2009 4:52 PM | Link to this

THE BEAR, you should listen more, more often and much better to Billy Walsh.

(And ask someone what “small sample size” means.)

By ncgary

January 25, 2009 4:59 PM | Link to this

ya might call manny a clubhouse cancer but didnt lance armstrong win the tour de france with testicular cancer.

manny is the one option that makes braves legitimate series contenders.

it might not be considered feasible for some bean counters, but with manny in the lineup, there would be alot more beans to count

By Random

January 25, 2009 5:11 PM | Link to this

nolie— Lance White, in “White on White and Almost Perfect” was one (were there three? I recall only two.

Good (TV) times.

By Frank

January 25, 2009 5:14 PM | Link to this

Coach Smith

If I may….may I add one or two to that list…

Weird Science with the luscious Kelly LeBrock and Gung Ho with Michael Keaton, Mimi Rogers and George Wendt of Cheers fame.

By KC

January 25, 2009 5:15 PM | Link to this

cvbraves: You can forget about Manny bro. Never gonna happen here.

First of all, the Braves place an exceptionally high value on personal character & chemistry (strike 1).

Second, the Braves aren’t interested in investing 20 million per season in ANYONE right now (gotta have money to keep Hudson and Gonzo around beyond this year, in addition to what they’ve already spent). And they’re especially not going to spend that kind of money on a guy that has character issues and is one of the worst defensive outfielders in the game. (Strike 2).

And lastly, they’re reticent to sign anyone to a 3-year deal for LF, as that could block some young up-&-coming talent (most notably, Heyward) beyond this year. They might make an exception if they feel that whoever they sign would be easy to trade a year or two down the road, if necessary. But a 20 mill-a-year Manny contract could be challenging to deal away without swallowing a big chunk of his salary. (Strike 3).

Actually, that first point alone (about his character) is probably strike 1, 2, and 3 all by itself. There’s no way Manny’s coming to Atlanta. If the Braves were inclined to sign weak-fielding slugger on a 3-year deal… they’d make an offer to Adam Dunn for about half the price your suggested for Manny. But I don’t think that’s likely either.

By Billy Walsh

January 25, 2009 5:23 PM | Link to this

Where in the world are the braves going to find 25 + million a year to sign Manny? Roberts wont be traded either. Peter Angelos loves him and will never part with him. I wouldnt be surprised if the orioles reach a contract extension with him. Can we please talk about realistic signings or trades. If the braves had an extra 25 or 30 million lying around somewhere…Tex would still be a brave.

By Bubdylan

January 25, 2009 5:23 PM | Link to this

ya might call manny a clubhouse cancer but didnt lance armstrong win the tour de france with testicular cancer. ncgary

Yeah, with cancer, but not because of it. Never heard a bicyclists saying “man if only I had me some testicular cancer…”

By nolie

January 25, 2009 5:33 PM | Link to this

By Random

January 25, 2009 5:11 PM | Link to this

nolie— Lance White, in “White on White and Almost Perfect” was one (were there three? I recall only two. Random

you got better recall this time than I do. Gonna blame it on old age. “Nice Guys Finish Dead” was the other one of the TWO episodes he was in. I absolutely love both those shows and have all of them on DVD except for the last Rockford which just came out recently and will soon be in my collection too.

By Robbie T

January 25, 2009 5:35 PM | Link to this

Orlando Hudson 31years old. 32 in Dec.09 7 seasons. Career Batting .282 HR high 15 RBI high 67 Career high stolen bases 10 Career fielding pct .985 errors per year avg. 9.5 batting avg. 2008 .305 in 107 gms. Salary in 08 $6.250.000

Kelly Johnson 27 in Feb.09 3 seasons Career Batting .273 HR high 16 RBI high 68 Career high stolen bases 11 Career fielding pct. .979 errors per year avg. 14 Batting 2008 .287 Salary in 08 $430.000

Comparing these players i don’t see any reason that the Braves need Orlando Hudson.Kelly Johnson is younger and his stats are not that much different than Hudsons.Granted Hudson is the better fielder at this point.However,Johnson should get better with age.Kelly should improve his numbers at bat in every category as he gets more experience.His speed may be a slower than Hudson but Kelly is a smart basrunner who knows how to steal a base.Kelly also makes a lot less money than Hudson.The Braves do not need a second baseman Kelly Johnson is doing fine.Spend money on outfielders that can hit the long ball and drive in runs.That is where the team needs help now.Our infield personel is fine.Barring injury Kelly Johnson will only get better as both a fielder and a batter.

By THE BEAR

January 25, 2009 5:51 PM | Link to this

Random, nowhere did I even suggest the numbers Billy Walsh was writing about. .500 OBP is ridiculous.

I don’t think 25 homers are ridiculous, maybe on the high side but by not much but surely not ridiculous. After all we are dealing in opinion here, aren’t we?

I simply have a high regard for Kelly Johnson and believe his future is far higher than he has shown so far although he has been climbing lately. He is a player and will be for years to come. No way would I ever allow him out of my control if I could help it. And he may well be Chipper’s replacement one day unless they can find someone not on the screen right now.

By Robert

January 25, 2009 5:59 PM | Link to this

The explanation for Andruw’s precipitous decline is pretty easy

A lot ton of talent and two tons of lazy.

He was so talented that he could by on ability alone - no discipline, no training, no pushing himself - until the moment that his legs and bat slowed just a tad

And then boom

He would have to do more than re-invent himself as a player to come back - He’d have to find a work ethic and some smarts about the fundamentals

Fat chance. (but not as fat as his a*)

By Anders

January 25, 2009 6:16 PM | Link to this

You guys seeing anything about Joe Torre’s new book down there? A-Rod takes another hit. Torre outed that some of his veteran teammates took to calling him “A-Fraud” behind his back. He also said that A-Rod was consumed with being like Derek Jeter -He called it a “Single White Woman” type obsession. Lastly he threw Cashman under the bus for not standing up for him when the Yanks made him a 1 year offer after making the playoffs 14straight years and winning 4 titles.

Wait until Tex see’s the circus at spring training, never mind at the new Stadium when the games actually count.

By ncgary

January 25, 2009 6:26 PM | Link to this

By Bubdylan

January 25, 2009 5:23 PM | Link to this

ya might call manny a clubhouse cancer but didnt lance armstrong win the tour de france with testicular cancer. ncgary

Yeah, with cancer, but not because of it. Never heard a bicyclists saying “man if only I had me some testicular cancer…”

yeah but if ya asked braves players what they thought of it, 95 % probably want manny

By dogsbrekky

January 25, 2009 6:32 PM | Link to this

Anders

Tex will fit in SO WELL here in NYC

and the yanks will win SQUADOOSH as long as GARYOD and TEX are here

bloody love it !

By Chopdawg

January 25, 2009 6:37 PM | Link to this

DOB, no offense, but I gotta ask: what exactly does “Rock Chalk Jayhawk” mean?

By d-rock

January 25, 2009 6:47 PM | Link to this

Chopdawg,

The story goes that a geology club were on a train trip to look at rocks out West. They invented the chant to make the time pass in rythym with the sounds of the train on the track.

At this point it just sounds cool, and means Kansas has the game in the bag.

By northbeach Scott

January 25, 2009 6:55 PM | Link to this

DOB According to MLB.com final World Baseball Classic rosters must be set by 2/25 to 28 players (13 pitchers) down from the current 45 man provisional rosters. The Braves have 16 players committed to the 45 man at this point (many of them minor leaguers). Do you know, yet, if players will shuttle back to spring training between match ups or are the players committed to their country teams until eliminated or is it something, else.

Looks like we will be attending 6 Braves ST games between 3/7-12 so we are likely not to see the major league regulars during that time. It will be great to see some of our kids and newcomers, especially Heyward, Hanson, Kawakami, Lowe, and the new LF TBD. Any perspective on how this will work? Thank you!

By spotts

January 25, 2009 7:07 PM | Link to this

I don’t think a team with Garyod can lose

By 18 Wheels of Love

January 25, 2009 7:10 PM | Link to this

What the hell was XM/SIrius thinking when they decided to cancel Charlie Steiner’s ‘Baseball Beat’ show? So another call-in show like the other 23 of them instead of having Charlie talking to beat writers like DOB and other friends he has accumulated in the business? I can only take so much of Rob Dibble’s dribble. Usually his show goes on hiatus while he does the broadcasting thing but this is a bad move.

By cheld

January 25, 2009 7:14 PM | Link to this

For all those pleading to sign Manny:

Where do you expect the cash to come from? Do you expect the Braves to increase payroll by 20% during a recession with a corporate owner or do you plan to trade away multiple high salary players? Or do you expect Manny to sign for $5 million or so?

It’s easy to be a GM when you don’t have to deal with pesky thinks like salary restrictions or (in the case of the comments related to Ludwick, Peavy, Greinke, etc) other owners/agents not agreeing to your one-sided offers.

By Billy Walsh

January 25, 2009 7:37 PM | Link to this

Couldn’t agree more cheld. Its even harder when you are following a legend (JS)are faced with the tough decisions of letting go aging HOF’s (Glavine and Smoltz) and are trying to bid against the team with the deepest pockets in all of baseball. I do not envy Mr. Wren. As far as KJ..he is a nice complimentary player (12hr 65-70 rbi .275 av) that I feel will put up solid major league numbers. I cannot see him developing into a 25+ hr guy or expect to eventually replace Chipper’s numbers in this lineup.

By ncgary

January 25, 2009 7:40 PM | Link to this

heres the pesky thing about money.

liberty has a team worth for todays purposes lets assume 600 million . lets assume liberty media decides to come off of some of their money and spends 50 million for 2 years of manny. now that doesnt guarantee 2 world series championships.

but it does give you a legitimate chance of them. say that 50 million you spent does equal 2 world series. lets assume the braves are for sale in 2 year. noow that tax restrictions are over whats a team that just won 2 world series worth now? 600 million? not hardly. wouldnt double but damn near would. thats the pesky thing about money. if ya dont spend some of it, chances are ya will wish ya would have

By Random

January 25, 2009 8:13 PM | Link to this

THE BEAR: “I don’t think 25 homers are ridiculous, maybe on the high side but by not much but surely not ridiculous.”

Well, I admit that “ridiculous” is a fairly subjective term, but “by not much”?

I think a projected 150% increase in KJ’s previous HR season high is “by much”. By very much — by an almost ridiculous much, as it were.

“After all we are dealing in opinion here, aren’t we?”

Well, sure, you can seek the protection of “opinion” to defend a not quite ridiculous projection which is supposedly based on actual previous performance, but it’s a transparent evasion for all that.

That it is only an “opinion” would be a much more valid defense if you just came out and admitted that it’s based on little more than wishful thinking — or at least, not one based on any realistic projection of KJ’s previous performance.

“I simply have a high regard for Kelly Johnson and believe his future is far higher than he has shown so far although he has been climbing lately. [—] He is a player and will be for years to come. [—] No way would I ever allow him out of my control if I could help it.”

As do I — agreed — nor would I. You may not have noticed, but I would consider Orlando Hudson in 2009 a downgrade at 2B from KJ.

“And he may well be Chipper’s replacement one day unless they can find someone not on the screen right now.”

Now this I don’t get — is it common knowledge that 3B is easier to play than 2B? I would think the opposite. KJ has never (? — maybe in AA or below?) played 3B, and I don’t think he has the requisite fielding skills for it.

Apparently you do — how come?

By N Nine

January 25, 2009 8:29 PM | Link to this

Frenchy meets the fans? Is he okay?

Gotta say I will buy the Joe Torre book, He rips Yankees, which is always enjoyable. Wonder how the relationship with A-Fraud and others will turn out.

By dogsbrekky

January 25, 2009 8:40 PM | Link to this

Spotts - I apologise about the spelling, had brain cancer a few years back and it is “AUSTRALIA DAY” so have had a few Shiraz and beers, actually many..

so sometimes I try to write

Chipper is great and it comes out CHPPREI SI GRTEA…. etc

get the drift

By BravesFanInRockies

January 25, 2009 8:56 PM | Link to this

18 Wheels

That ain’t all XM/Sirius canceled as a result of the merger. The XM Americana channel “Cross Country” has been absorbed by what they now call “Outlaw Country.” And it’s OK — Shooter Jennings and Mojo Nixon are among the DJs. But they canceled some mighty fine programming, including shows hosted by Dave Alvin and Robbie Fulks and Jack Ingram — and outstanding cajun/zydeco and newgrass shows.

Plus, they killed the channel that played Dylan’s and Tom Petty’s and Marty Stuart’s shows on a 24-hour loop one day a week.

I lke the old XM better, that’s for sure.

By BravesFanInRockies

January 25, 2009 9:01 PM | Link to this

Random

Fully agree that Kelly Johnson is a superior offensive player to O-Dog.

I disagree that it’s harder to play 3B than 2B. It is indeed considered an easier defensive postion. But it also requires a different skill set. 3B is more of a reactive and instinctive position, and of course demands a strong arm. 2B requires more range. You have more time to find the ball and get it.

Some guys can make the transition. KJ might thrive there. You just don’t know.

By David O'Brien

January 25, 2009 9:09 PM | Link to this

18 Wheels, I couldn’t believe it when Charlie’s producer told me a couple weeks ago that they were cancelling the show. All about bottom line. They think cheesy programming aimed at folks who have no attention span is the only way to go, apparently. Can’t have those actual conversations mucking up the works….

By the way, saw Benjamin Button today. Very good movie. Not one of my top five for the year, but very well done. Great story, strong acting by Ptt and the lovely Ms. Blanchett, and a couple of mighty fine motorcycles ridden by Pitt — an Indian and a Triumph.

By David O'Brien

January 25, 2009 9:11 PM | Link to this

Northbeach: My understanding is that most of those WBC guys will be away for at least a couple weeks (longer if their teams advance).

Many of the Braves guys are minor leaguers, but there’s a handful of prominent major leaguers who’ll be away from Dark Star for a while to play in that thing.

By dogsbrekky

January 25, 2009 9:19 PM | Link to this

I went to see “Mall Cop” today

big mistake,

on several levels

1. One bottle of Penfolds Bin 389 Cab/Shiraz
2. Several Sam Adams “Winter Lager”
3. A kids movie maquerading as an adult comdey
4. 300 annoyin loud, seat kicking kids..

PS Do not waste your time or $12.50…

The SAG awards are quite fun so far

By dogsbrekky

January 25, 2009 9:19 PM | Link to this

I went to see “Mall Cop” today

big mistake,

on several levels

1. One bottle of Penfolds Bin 389 Cab/Shiraz
2. Several Sam Adams “Winter Lager”
3. A kids movie maquerading as an adult comdey
4. 300 annoyin loud, seat kicking kids..

PS Do not waste your time or $12.50…

The SAG awards are quite fun so far

By Random

January 25, 2009 9:28 PM | Link to this

ncgary: “thats the pesky thing about money. if ya dont spend some of it, chances are ya will wish ya would have”

That’s some awful dam awkward “folksiness” you got goin’ on there, partner! “Ya will wish ya would have”???

Sheesh! (Maybe “Ya’ll wish ya woulda.”)

THE BEAR: “If the Braves could get an outfielder who could hit .290 and 25 HR’s, with an OBP of .350 and a SLG of .450 would you put him in the No. 4 slot?

“Based on past performance and his hitting in the last six weeks of 2008 those numbers look highly possible for Kelly Johnson. When I compare those numbers with what Dunn or Abrieu would bring and then look at the money I would be inclined to go with KJ as my left fielder.”

All right, say KJ puts up .290/.350/.450 this year — no argument there. And whether he puts up those numbers at 2B or in LF, the Braves still need to find a slugging HR/RBI guy. OHudson is not that guy. BRoberts is not that guy. KJ is not that guy. Dunn is that guy. To a lesser extent, Abreu is that guy. (But like you said elsewhere, the Braves need “that guy” to also kill LH pitching.)

That guy would be easier to find in the guise of a LF rather than a 2B, considering who all is apparently available right now.

Because as to 25 HRs for KJ? — “Based on past performance and his hitting in the last six weeks of 2008 [25 HRs] look highly possible for Kelly Johnson.”

Okay, you’ve moved from the realm of pure opinion to somewhere a little more objective — mathematical projections.

“Based on past performance”, KJ could be expected to hit 15-16 HRs in 162 games. (Career: 37 HRs in 384 games)

“Based on his hitting in the last six weeks of 2008”, KJ could be expected to hit 13-14 HRs in 162 games. (18 Aug — 28 Sep 08: 3 HRs in 36 games)

The only thing I know (aside from PEDs) that might get someone from 13-16 HRs to 25 HRs in a season is the substance of things hoped for and/or the evidence of things not seen.

But remember — unreasonable expectations are nothing more than premeditated resentments.

By Roger Miller

January 25, 2009 9:34 PM | Link to this

King of the Road

By Random

January 25, 2009 9:38 PM | Link to this

BravesFanInRockies: “You just don’t know.”

Thanks for the 2B/3B info.

Yer right — I don’t. Gotta do some more diggin.

By Jim

January 25, 2009 9:40 PM | Link to this

DOB:

Olney notes today that Ty Wigginton was 5th toughest batter against LHPs last year - 1.055/.340 w. 23/58 in 386 ABs. So, Diaz with power, but this “Diaz” can also play 3B. He’s played some LF -30 games last year - with limited range (<2.0). Might he be a cheaper solution than Dye/Abreu, and offer more power than Hudson? Know you said a few months ago that he will go to a team that needs a 3B, but, has situation changed? He’s 31 - same age as OH. TW is RHP - so could fit well in 4 spot between CJ and Mac - and if RH starts, you can always drop him to #6 and move Mac & KJ up to 4, 5.

Also, as I noted ealier today, OH’s RF was 4.82 last years versus KJ’s 5.16. Fielding %s were .982 and .978. KJ is a better (and younger) fielder already.

Ohman is still needed. What would he be at start of season? #3 relief pitcher after Gonzo and Moylan (with Soriano’s readiness still a ?n)?

By Kevin

January 25, 2009 9:43 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB. I know a lot of people are saying stuff about Orlando Hudson and Brian Roberts. Do you know if the Braves really do have any interest in these players?

By ncgary

January 25, 2009 9:56 PM | Link to this

nah ya ya is suffice for the present thank you

By richbrave

January 25, 2009 9:58 PM | Link to this

Honerable Mention:

To Live and Die In L.A.

By GTguy84

January 25, 2009 10:04 PM | Link to this

DOB - Quick question, when do you think most of the FA that have not signed with anyone yet would like to sign by (at the latest)?

By Ricky Olerud

January 25, 2009 10:08 PM | Link to this

DOB- watching Shotgun Series for the second time- WOW, good flick… Shampoo is a GREAT character.

You gonna check out Ryan Adams @ the Fox? Supposed last show for awhile. Hopefully he wont cry wolf and leave again…

I did not realize him and David Rawlings had such a strong relationship…

Jorma @ Variety too…

Cheers, Ricky Olerud

By Billy Walsh

January 25, 2009 10:17 PM | Link to this

Kelly Johnson is a superior offensive player than O. Hudson? I don’t follow. Seaonsal averages for Hudson 13 hr 70 rbi .282 average. Johnson 16 hr 75 rbi .273 average. Just looking at those numbers I wouldnt say that KJ is superior to Hudson. KJ strikes out more and has been dreadfully inconsistent while Hudsons numbers have improved ever year since 2005. All things being equal..I would rather have Hudson at 2nd then KJ (the gold gloves is the clincher). Granted Hudson would cost more but KJ’s salary will be increasing in the coming years.

By Daybed Wagmoe

January 25, 2009 10:17 PM | Link to this

DOB,

I’m hoping to see Benjamin Button soon, but I’m also a bit skeptical that it’s kind of along the lines of Hollywood schlock that often comes out. Just my impression before seeing the film.

Also, this video suggests that the movie is, well, unoriginal…though I’m sure that there’s a lot more in the full 166 minutes than the 2-3 minutes that this spoof looks at.

By TennesseePaul

January 25, 2009 10:51 PM | Link to this

Stinton has a pretty cool article about Lowe out there. But he is dead wrong about one thing. He should be ashamed of himself.

Last fall, he won Los Angeles’ first playoff game in 20 years.
—Tom Stinton

On October 9th, 2004, in an NLDS game against the Saint Louis Cardinals, pitcher Jose Lima won the first postseason game since the ‘88 WS for the Dodgers. He threw a complete game shutout allowing 5 singles while striking out 4.

By David O'Brien

January 25, 2009 11:02 PM | Link to this

Daybed, doesn’t sound like you should spend nearly 3 hours watching it. It’s long and no, it’s not exactly “edgy” type cinema. But it’s quite well done and I liked it.

By TooConventional

January 25, 2009 11:06 PM | Link to this

Also, this video suggests that the movie is, well, unoriginal…though I’m sure that there’s a lot more in the full 166 minutes than the 2-3 minutes that this spoof looks atDaybed

hmm. a movie about a guy who is born as an old man and dies years later as a baby is unoriginal ?

By David O'Brien

January 25, 2009 11:06 PM | Link to this

Ricky Olerud: You meant Shotgun Stories, right? If so, yes, that’a a great movie. Really liked that one, a real surprise since I hadn’t even heard about it before I rented it….

Oh, and I don’t intend to see Ryan Adams. Burned twice by him at disappointing shows (and this from someone who loves his music). I opted not to go to that last show, and glad I did after hearing he left the stage early.

He’s the one act I just choose to enjoy his recorded music from now on and skip the disappointment of the shows. At least until I hear he’s putting on consistently good shows.

Honestly, can’t think of a single other act I’ve felt that way about, where I liked their recorded music (and his obvious songwriting brilliance) so much but disliked the stage persona and/or performances.

By David O'Brien

January 25, 2009 11:10 PM | Link to this

dogsbrekky: not to rub it in, but you could have gone to the Rotten Tomatoes movie-review website — it’s a really good site with virtually all of the best movie critics represented — and seen that Mall Cop was one of the worst-reviewed flicks of the year. What compelled you to see it? But thanks for the warning (in case there was anyone else on the blog tempted to pay $10 or more to see it).

By David O'Brien

January 25, 2009 11:12 PM | Link to this

GTguy84: I think we’re going to start seeing a flurry of signings this week, now that arbitration is taken care of, salary figures swapped and all that. Time for teams to start signing the 100 or more remaining free agents on the market, and time for those free agents to realize in many cases, the money they thought was out there probably just isn’t going to be.

By TennesseePaul

January 25, 2009 11:16 PM | Link to this

I was impressed with Benjamin Button. I agree with DOB that I didn’t find it to be the best of the year. I thought the Wrestler was a better film. But, I was impressed nonetheless. Benjamin Button turns time on its head. I really didn’t notice how long it was. It was the only aspect of time I didn’t notice while watching the movie. It was a well told story, original or not. The makeup was incredible.

By TennesseePaul

January 25, 2009 11:20 PM | Link to this

Ryan Adams’ “live show persona” is his real persona. The guy is a dick. He writes great tunes, but he’s an @sshole. I can’t help but think of the Dude when it comes to him…
Speed of Sound Tour… Bunch of @ssholes

By David O'Brien

January 25, 2009 11:26 PM | Link to this

By the way, Daybed: Benjamin Button is from a story by F. Scott Fitzgerald.

By David O'Brien

January 25, 2009 11:33 PM | Link to this

TennPaul: After seeing it, I sure know why it was nominated in all the technical categories, along with costumes, makeup, etc. Great stuff. And I really liked the story — and Cate Blanchett, of course.

The tugboat captain was a great character, too.

But don’t think the movie should’ve been nominated for the best-picture Oscar ahead of The Dark Knight or Gran Torino. I also liked Redbelt more, but, unfortunately, Redbelt isn’t really the type of movie that gets nominated.

By Columbusbuckeye

January 25, 2009 11:37 PM | Link to this

The only thing that I did not like about Benjamin Button was how prevalent death was throughout. Honestly, I was depressed when I left the theatre. That darn flick makes you want to go home and call your family and hug your kid an extra minute or two. Also, the whole Katrina tie-in was irrelevant IMHO. Otherwise, it was a very interesting movie. Great? Not really, but very good.

By genegarbage

January 25, 2009 11:41 PM | Link to this

yup, meant Shotgun Stories. pretty dern good. agree on all points ryan adams. great albums, pass on live shows. phil lesh loves the dude.

DOB- where in NC is he from? and you? ever listen/ hear/ see Zach Galifiniakis? maybe one of the funnier dudes out there- he is a north carolinian too.

cheers..

By THE BEAR

January 25, 2009 11:46 PM | Link to this

Cal Ripken, Chipper Jones and KRod are but three of a long line of Shortstops who have successfully switched to third. Kelly Johnson was a SS before he was a left fielder and then a second baseman. His playing third sometime in the future is totally within the realm of possible.

As for his hitting I agree 25 may be a result of wishful thinking but I do think he has a better future at the plate than he has shows so far. He did show us a flash of what he can do last season in the last six weeks.

As for RBI’s it is pretty well acknowledged that the guy batting fourth sees a lot more runners on base ahead of him than any other position. Driving in 100 from the No. 4 slot is not outside reason for a hitter like KJ. He will never likely do it while hitting 7th or 8th….or first or second for that matter.

I see absolutely no reason to bring in OHudson unless it is to move Johnson to LF. And that is not going to bring any more power. Hudson is good but not better overall in my mind than KJ. I would never pay out $8 or $10 million to add Hudson. For a leadoff man like Roberts that is another topic altogether. With him at lead off and KJ playing LF I think the Braves would have a very high scoring team albeit by playing little ball rather than the big bat variety but a run is a run.

By Mitchie-san

January 25, 2009 11:51 PM | Link to this

Other than the ones we have talked into the ground about, any guesses on who of the 100 or so the Braves may look at?

By GTguy84

January 26, 2009 12:07 AM | Link to this

Thanks DOB for the response. I really enjoy and look forward reading your articles and blogs.

One more thing. In your opinion, do you think the Braves will be one of those teams signing a player or two within the next week or so (with exception of Ohman)?

By David O'Brien

January 26, 2009 12:10 AM | Link to this

genegarbage: Ryan Adams was born in Jacksonville, N.C. (that’s the Jacksonville in his “Jacksonville City Nights” album title; some people assumed he was refererring to Jacksonville, Fla., but he wans’t) .

I was born in Durham, but our family moved to Greenville, N.C., before my first birthday. We moved to Memphis when I was 11.

By Daybed Wagmoe

January 26, 2009 12:21 AM | Link to this

DOB — thanks for the tip, if that’s what it was. I’m interested because of all the hype it’s getting, but it does seem like it’s overhyped, and your statement that it shouldn’t have been nominated ahead of Dark Knight or Gran Torino seems to back that up…perhaps that’s not what you meant, but that’s what I gathered.

And I knew that it was based on an F. Scott Fitzgerald short story…TooConventional — I’m not saying that the premise of the story is unoriginal. Watch the link of the video that I posted above and you’ll see what I was referring to.

Saw a very interesting Swedish vampire movie at the Cine in Athens last night called “Let the Right One In.” If anyone out there enjoys horror movies, you’d probably enjoy this one, though it’s not a typical “horror” movie.

By genegarbage

January 26, 2009 12:34 AM | Link to this

just had maybe the best fried chicken i’ve ever had in my life in Memphis- Gus’. hands down phenomenal.

Cold Roses might be one of the most complete albums to date- yeah, man- i said it. bring on the shots.

DOB - ever been to Old McDonalds BBQ up near Lake Lanier? their stew is it, man.

On a side note, check out Shorty’s acfross from Toco Hills if you get a chance- good stuff. The owners dig good music too…

Cheers, Larry

By TennesseePaul

January 26, 2009 12:39 AM | Link to this

Agreed with the technical nominations. Makes more sense after seeing. And the nominations are well deserved.

I’m thinking Robert Downey Jr’s nomination is a continuation of a joke made in the movie…

By Daybed Wagmoe

January 26, 2009 12:49 AM | Link to this

genegarbage — I’m with you on Cold Roses, man. I love that album, start to finish. It took a while to grow on me, but it’s terrific.

DOB or anyone else here listen to Songs: Ohia? Their album from (I think) 2003 entitled “Magnolia Electric Company” is incredible and one I’d highly recommend.

By CharlieAlphaBravo

January 26, 2009 1:31 AM | Link to this

DOB:

Forgot you were from Durham. I was in a wedding this weekend in “Bay 7” in the Tobacco District. It was right next to the Bulls’ stadium under the Lucky Strike water tower. It was an absolutely beautiful venue for a wedding, and turned out to be the most fun I’ve ever had at any kind of formal ceremony.

…Well, okay, maybe second only to my senior prom. We had it in the 755 club, and as we were leaving we hopped the fence in left field and took pictures on the pitcher’s mound. Definitely worth the “stern talking-to” and one day of Saturday school we received as punishment. Except I think I popped a button on my tux onto the warning track, and it cost me $50. Still worth it though.

By KC

January 26, 2009 1:51 AM | Link to this

Just saw The Wrestler tonight. It was a good movie, though I wasn’t as taken with it as many others I’ve hear talk about the film.

I must say though… Marisa Tomei’s performance was both rich and compelling. I was definitely moved.

By Samuel Stiles

January 26, 2009 3:49 AM | Link to this

* DOB* wanted to let you know that i watched shotgun stories last night. awesome. I loved all of the arkansas landscapes…and the lucero music. played a bunch of shows with those guys doing southern tours. Very underrated band from memphis. Also, Have you ever seen any of the Duplass brothers’ movies? They are some friends of mine, originally from new orleans who make really good, very low budget indie films. Their two most recent being, ” the Puffy Chair” and “Baghead” Rent them. They come highly recommended, and not because i am biased. Their films are so REAL and always have tons of heart. If they stick to their guns, they will be the next truly indie version of the coen brothers…always creating quality…and will have a dedicated cult audience. check it.

By Random

January 26, 2009 7:07 AM | Link to this

THE BEAR — Interesting that you would still think of KJ as a shortstop.

By Random

January 26, 2009 7:29 AM | Link to this

THE BEAR —Btw, I “slighly” overstated my case earlier.

Going from 16 to 25 HRs would be a **50%% increase, not 160%.

A **150% increase would give KJ 40 HRs.

By chuckw/deadjournalist

January 26, 2009 7:42 AM | Link to this

18 Wheels -

The Sirius/XM merger is going the way everyone assumed it would; despite what the controlling interests said during the merger hearings.

MLB Home Plate is unlistenable; XM’s programming footprint is almost completely gone and what’s left is a pile of crap.

It’s still better than radio - but just barely. This merger has been absolutely horrible as the product quality has nosedived and the only “original programming” that isn’t cross-platform are sports or talk-crap. Why even bother having two services anymore?

If they start playing commercials on the few music channels that I listen to, there will be no reason to continue subscribing.

I love the theory of a free market; but damn if deregulation didn’t screw something else up.

By Coach Smith

January 26, 2009 7:44 AM | Link to this

RANDOM

great call on the SIMPSONS…how in the world did I leave it off my list…especiallly when I have every season on DVD

By cvbraves

January 26, 2009 8:32 AM | Link to this

DOB Nice to have a connection with my favorite baseball writer who is covering my favorite baseball team. I used to be sports editor of the Greenville Daily Reflector way back when. Even coached a lot of Little League and youth league baseball there. Graduated from East Carolina. One of my daughters did, too, and she married a fellow from there.

By 22oz

January 26, 2009 8:43 AM | Link to this

Regarding the Sirius/XM merger, i’ve been happy with the merger on the music channels. I’ve had Sirius on my tv for years because i have DISH network, but i had XM in my truck. I always enjoyed the Sirius Outlaw Country over XM’s Cross Country. I like the mix of old and new outlaw country. My radio rarely leaves that channel.

I had not heard that Charlie’s show was getting canceled. Home Plate has really gone downhill since the merger. Once Mark Patrick left Baseball this morning, it became unlistenable. I think right now its Jeff Joyce and Jim Duquette just argueing to hear themselves. Its terrible. And i never could stand Rob Dibble or Kevin Kennedy, so i never listened to their show to begin with.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 26, 2009 8:49 AM | Link to this

Hey DOB

Any guess or idea about Lemke’s return to the booth? Have not heard a lot about his name during all this Powell/Sutton stuff. Also, knowing Powell’s approach, will he be fulltime play by play or will it be a switch off with Sutton half way though? I figure you have not heard for sure, but thought maybe you had a hunch or guess how the radio booth may function this coming season

By Dadgum

January 26, 2009 9:19 AM | Link to this

Sorry that the #’s didn’t show up beside each point.

By Dadgum

January 26, 2009 9:21 AM | Link to this

Oh yeah, DOB please thank whoever was responsible for the faster blog speed!

By 18 Wheels of Love

January 26, 2009 9:33 AM | Link to this

Dadgum, you need to see last week’s 30 Rock. It was all about corporate conventions, which I despise by the way. I seem to get sick around our yearly sales convention - can’t figure out why. Nothing but a bunch of people wanting to get away from their families so they can drink and be stupid.

Like I said, watch that 30 Rock if you haven’t already.

By Kevin

January 26, 2009 9:36 AM | Link to this

Hey this text will be boldedDOB. I know a lot of people are saying stuff about Orlando Hudson and Brian Roberts. Do you know if the Braves really do have any interest in these players?

By McFann O –[zzz] (Braves Fann For Life)

January 26, 2009 9:38 AM | Link to this

Random—

Yeah, good “McQuote”.

Are we doing TV shows now?? Oh boy, oh boy, oh boy!

The Beverly Hillbillies (black and white ones mostly)

The Munsters

The Flintstones

I Love Lucy

The Honeymooners

The Dick Van D. Show

The Andy Griffith Show (black and white ONLY)

Leave It To Beaver

By McFann O –[zzz] (Braves Fann For Life)

January 26, 2009 9:41 AM | Link to this

Oh, duh…one more (stick this in between The Flintstones and the Munsters): The Cosby Show.

Someday, I’ll get ‘em all in one post.

By Kevin

January 26, 2009 9:42 AM | Link to this

Hey DOB. I know a lot of people are saying stuff about Orlando Hudson and Brian Roberts. Do you know if the Braves really do have any interest in these players?

By McFann O –[zzz] (Braves Fann For Life)

January 26, 2009 9:47 AM | Link to this

Oh, poo…my tow posts merged together. There goes my perfect record…

By Dadgum

January 26, 2009 9:49 AM | Link to this

18 wheel…agreed on the conventions. Mainly the ones I attend or have attended are trade shows/conventions. Never seen 30 Rock and don’t plan to but I will take your word on it.

Rock on…..

By Dadgum

January 26, 2009 9:52 AM | Link to this

Kevin…now that makes me laugh. Thanks.

By Random

January 26, 2009 10:02 AM | Link to this

Why are over half of the AJC’s photos from the Braves’ recent AutographFest of stinkin’ FANS??? After almost four months, I’d like to see what the PLAYERS look like — especially the new additions.

By Thrillhouse44

January 26, 2009 10:09 AM | Link to this

I got the chance to check out Notorious over the weekend. It was a great flick. It was informative, inspiring, and showed who Christopher Wallace the man was in addition to his stage persona. It also inspired me to dig Life After Death out of my wayback CD box.

By getnathan

January 26, 2009 10:19 AM | Link to this

Medlen is a dark horse to make an impact this year, to me. I have no stats to back it up, just a feeling. Nobody is expecting him to do much at the major league level, but I am hearing his name more and more. Hanson will make the team and be the #5 starter. Glavine will not be asked back.

By Slugger

January 26, 2009 10:22 AM | Link to this

DOB -

You were watching ‘The Visitor’ on DVD…

You need to make the jump to blu-ray my friend! Just got the Band of Brothers box set and Godfather Collection on blu and they’re unreal!

If you do not know whether or not you want to make the jump, go buy the Memorex player from Wal-Mart for sub$200 and check out a couple flicks…Shawshank Redemption, my friend, looks unbelievable on blu-ray.

Just a suggestion to one who appreciates A/V like yourself.

By stupup74

January 26, 2009 10:49 AM | Link to this

I am going to throw a name out there that the braves MIGHT can get for cheap: Ty Wigginton. He is a free agent and hit 1.055 OPS vs. LHP last year in Houston. I know he is a third baseman and yes he is probably not a headliner, but that looks like a guy the braves could use. If I am not mistaken he also can play the OF some and also 1st and 2nd. He could give Chipper the day off vs. a tough lefty from and 3B when in AL parks (let Chipper rest some) time to time.

Anybody got an idea or a under the radar player you wish Atlanta would go get?

By David O'Brien

January 26, 2009 11:02 AM | Link to this

getnathan, Medlen isn’t really a darkhorse, at least not to those who are either in the organization or follow it closely. Medlen shot up the charts last year, particularly after his move from bullpen to rotation. He’s rated a top-10 prospect in the organization now, and everyone I’ve talked to said he could and probably will be up this season.

So it won’t be a surprise if it happens. If they have a few injuries, we could see him make a start. Or he could pitch out of the ‘pen if they really need him there.

By Lew

January 26, 2009 11:03 AM | Link to this

Thrillhouse-You got mail.

By David O'Brien

January 26, 2009 11:04 AM | Link to this

18 Wheels: Laughed out loud several times during that 30 Rock episode (the corporate weekender), which was one of the funniest in what’s been a very strong season for a terrific show.

I’ve also started getting into Flight of the Conchords on HBO. Very funny show. Don’t know why I never really sat down and watched it before, but fortunately there’s most of last season and the current season all on OnDemand.

By David O'Brien

January 26, 2009 11:07 AM | Link to this

Najeh, it only makes sense that you’re not going to hear about Lemke’s potential workload on radio until after we hear whether they’re hiring Sutton (I’m fairly certain they will, and very soon) or someone else to share the booth with the new man Powell.

By DAP

January 26, 2009 11:09 AM | Link to this

stupup74 He could give Chipper the day off vs. a tough lefty from and 3B when in AL parks (let Chipper rest some) time to time.

im not against wigginton, but i laughed when i read this. give chipper a day off against a tuff lefty? chipper might need days off now and then, but it wont be because of who is pitching.

wigginton did play some left field, but is really bad out there. i think signing ty wiggington might give chipper the wrong message, too. the braves dont need to make chipper think they got wigginton to take chippers place next year just in case.

but yeah, i like wigginton, and he crushes lefties.

By David O'Brien

January 26, 2009 11:10 AM | Link to this

cvbraves: that’s pretty wild, that you were SE at The Daily Reflector). Small word. My neighbor used to work there, lady named Rosalie. Wrote community news and society-type stuff, if I remember correctly. She passed away just recently.

By the way, my dad coached Little League for a long time back in Greenville, coached the Optimist Club team that my brother and I played on.

By David O'Brien

January 26, 2009 11:12 AM | Link to this

Samuel Stiles: I’ll definitely look for those films by you inde-filmmaker friends. Glad you liked Shotgun Stories. Some powerful, heavy stuff in that movie.

By Thrillhouse44

January 26, 2009 11:14 AM | Link to this

Lew, thanks! As usual, great work on both!

By David O'Brien

January 26, 2009 11:14 AM | Link to this

genegarbage — I live real close to Shorty’s and love their food (great pizzas, and their quacamole … wow). By the way, big Don from Ella Guru also lives right by there, and his daughter (Ella) just started working at Shorty’s, saving money for a car. So if you all eat at Shorty’s and she’s your waitress, make sure to tip the kid well — she needs a car and our favorite CD salesman ain’t making enough cash these days to buy it for her!

By KC

January 26, 2009 11:15 AM | Link to this

DOB and others, In regard to the Mall Cop movie… You should pretty much stay away from ANY “Happy Madison Productions” films. That’s Adam Sandler’s comany.

I think Sandler has been in some funny movies. I like a lot of the films it ACTS in… but not the movies he MAKES.

Happy Madison is responsible for 25 films, out of which there was a total of ONE reasonably good, funny movie… Anger Management.

Movies to Happy Madison’s credit include: Duce Bigalow, The Animal, Joe Dirt, The Master of Disguise (one of the worst review comedies of all time), Dickie Roberts, The Benchwarmers, and 2 of the dumbest recent movies that I actually looked forward to… Click, and I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry.

Bottom line, if you see “Happy Madison Productions” in the film trailer, avoid it as you would a Ricky Martin concert… and you’ll save $10 and 2 hours of your life that you’ll never get back.

By Random

January 26, 2009 11:17 AM | Link to this

Dadgum —

Please — spare us.

AJC Visitor Agreement:

“Spam. We will immediately terminate any account which we believe is being used to transmit, or is otherwise connected with, any spam or other unsolicited bulk email. In addition, because damages are often difficult to quantify, if actual damages cannot be reasonably calculated, then you agree to pay us liquidated damages of $2 for each item of spam or unsolicited bulk email transmitted from, or otherwise connected with, your account. Otherwise you agree to pay our actual damages, to the extent such actual damages can be reasonably calculated.”

By David O'Brien

January 26, 2009 11:19 AM | Link to this

Daybed, I got the self-titled Songs: Ohia CD that came out in ‘02 as a collaboration two-CD thing with My Morning Jacket. Very good stuff.

By David O'Brien

January 26, 2009 11:36 AM | Link to this

KC, you needn’t warn me, man. I generally check out a few reputable critics before I see a movie, if there’s any doubt in my mind about whether it’s worth seeing. And in that case of that movie (Mall Cop), there was no doubt in my mind. I mean, when even the trailer isn’t funny … well, that’s a real good sign that garbage awaits.

By Bored of Movie Talk

January 26, 2009 11:45 AM | Link to this

Here it is January 26, pitchers and catchers report of February 14th I think; and Manny Ramirez, Adam Dunn, Will Ohman, et all still haven’t signed with anyone. Slow market.

By Lew

January 26, 2009 11:47 AM | Link to this

KC-The Dude who wrote the screenplay for Chuck and Larry (no, I won’t go see it myself) and Men IN Black 2 was a Mercer classmate of mine. We were in the Theater Department at the same time (where I met my wife). Dude also wrote and Produced The Golden Girls.

Had another Mercer classmate who was in Joan River’s movie Rabbit Test, a Leon Isaac Kennedy flick and an episode of Fresh Prince of BelAir.

Bunch of Loonies in that theater department, but we had fun. Maybe too much..

By DAP

January 26, 2009 11:48 AM | Link to this

i think kevin james is hilarious. i might go see mall cop when it gets to the dollar theater. of course thats just me. i laughed at that stupid benchwarmers movie, and actually liked click.

By Scott

January 26, 2009 11:54 AM | Link to this

I’m having a hard time seeing why Adam Dunn would not be a good fit in left field for Atlanta. It can’t be because of defense, because the Braves have shown in the past that they are not afraid to put below average outfielders into left field when needed. Ron Gant, Ryan Klesko, Chipper Jones, Kelly Johnson, an aging B.J. Surhoff, etc. If his price is affordable I think they have to make a play at him, and bat him between Chipper and McCann. His numbers could only go up between those two bats and with his and Chipper’s OBP McCann should drive in 125 runs.

By KC

January 26, 2009 12:05 PM | Link to this

Scott: Adam Dunn might be worse in LF than any of they players you just mentioned. That said, I’m comfortable with the idea of getting his bat in the lineup, and using a defensive replacement late in games with the lead.

I would favor signing him on a two-year deal, at the right price (10 mill or less per)… or perhaps even a 3-year deal, if the contract is such that it seems likely the Braves could unload him via trade after the first season or two, if needed, to make room for Heyward.

By dogsbrekky

January 26, 2009 12:16 PM | Link to this

Mall Cop

I walked out, terrible, simplistic kids flick

By N8

January 26, 2009 12:19 PM | Link to this

To everybody questioning Mall Cop (and I haven’t gone to it…yet - I’ll elaborate later).

I saw Keving James (who’s standup stuff is VERY funny, IMO), on Leno or Letterman last week, and he talked about the lack of “family” comedies that carry the straight PG rating, going the way of the T-Rex.

Now don’t get me wrong, there have been PLENTY of movies that have a straight PG rating, that are still funny. (This one doesn’t look to be one).

But, alas, my 10 year old thinks it looks hilarious. They’ve been showing the trailer for it at kids movies for monthgs.

IT’S A MOVIE FOR KIDS THAT ARE ABOUT 10 YEARS OLD!

If anybody out their actually thinks they were getting a movie with King of Queens type of humor, you’re not paying close enough attention to the trailer.

Like I said. It STILL looks like a BAD kids movie. But in the past 10 years, I’ve seen plenty of movies, that I would considered to have wasted money on. But I’m sure my parents felt the same way about such classics as Tron and Breaking (along with Breakin’ 2 “Electric Boogaloo”).

Anyhow. That’s my two cents (in long-hand form, of course).

By N8

January 26, 2009 12:27 PM | Link to this

KC

Click was a decent comedy (any time Christopher Walken has a role, a movie is better for it). But it’s a rip-off (with a new millenium twist), of Mr. Destiny, with Jim Belushi.

But again, to remake my point of the last post. Those moviies are directed at teenage boys. Period.

Besides, while not a critically acclaimed, Oscar worthy film, Benchwarmers had enough one liners to be deemed as mildy humorous.

That being said, you’re correct for the most part. Adam Sandler’s movies he’s IN are better than the ones his production company has put out. Of course if you’re not a big fan of Adam Sandler, ALL of his humor might annoy you more than make you laugh.

By Reality

January 26, 2009 12:29 PM | Link to this

Mall Cop looks fine to me. Sometimes silly humor movies are nice.

Robert Ebert: “[Paul Blart: Mall Cop] is as slam-bang preposterous as any R-rated comedy you can name. It’s just that Paul Blart and the film’s other characters don’t feel the need to use the f-word as the building block of every sentence.”

By McFann O –[zzz] (Braves Fann For Life)

January 26, 2009 12:31 PM | Link to this

Scott “His numbers could only go up between those two bats and with his and Chipper’s OBP McCann should drive in 125 runs.”

McCann could have driven in that many in ‘08, seein’ as how he had 453 dudes on base in front of him.

Maybe I underestimate driving in 19% of ROB, I don’t know.

By dogsbrekky

January 26, 2009 12:33 PM | Link to this

N8 - My BAD, I did not watch the trailer and only read a few reviews which were basic to say the least.. but I should have known when I walked into the theatre and it was full of 5-10 year olds..

oh well another $12.50 down the tubes, no biggie..

Today, I am going to see Che Part I and if I can fathom that will back up for Part II later

By dogsbrekky

January 26, 2009 12:36 PM | Link to this

Reality

“Mall Cop - Paul Blart” is NOT FUNNY even in a silly way, sorry , well the 45 minutes I sat through,

whereas “YES MAN” is silly and very funny..

“Party on Wayne”

By DAP

January 26, 2009 12:49 PM | Link to this

eric hinske could be a good platoon option for the braves. he hits righties well but struggles against lefthanders, and he can play all four corners.

By We don't talk baseball here

January 26, 2009 12:55 PM | Link to this

“eric hinske could be a good platoon option for the braves. he hits righties well but struggles against lefthanders, and he can play all four corners.”

Keep the movie talk going.

By DAP

January 26, 2009 1:02 PM | Link to this

we dont talk baseball… haha, i see your point.

By David O'Brien

January 26, 2009 1:04 PM | Link to this

Wigginton hit .190 (16-for-84) with RISP last season, just FYI. Not saying he’d be a bad pickup, just giving you that stat.

He also hit .189 (10-for-53) i close-and-late situations, albeit with four homers.

By Daniel

January 26, 2009 1:08 PM | Link to this

Still holding out hope for Nady… DOB: I have reccomended several musical selections to you and we seem to be on the same page mostly. I wanted to turn you on to some really cool hip-hop… I have been listening to this Somali rapper named K’naan who is excellent. (He recorded his album at Bob Marley’s studio) Just thought you might want to try something different.
Also Appaloosa was a great movie.. and have you checked Animal Collective yet?

By David O'Brien

January 26, 2009 1:10 PM | Link to this

By the way, as of December, Wigginton was said to be looking for a bigger contract than the three-year, $17.5 mill deal that Casey Blake got from the Dodgers.

By DAP

January 26, 2009 1:13 PM | Link to this

royals just locked up greinke for four years

By Ty Phoney

January 26, 2009 1:17 PM | Link to this

“By the way, as of December, Wigginton was said to be looking for a bigger contract than the three-year, $17.5 mill deal that Casey Blake got from the Dodgers.”

That….and Ty Wiggington isn’t very good.

Get Adam Dunn.

By Efrim

January 26, 2009 1:23 PM | Link to this

Good move for the Royals. That will keep the fan base from jumping off a cliff….at least until Moore signs or trades for a guy that doesn’t get on base.

By Run Heap Run

January 26, 2009 1:24 PM | Link to this

Wigginton was said to be looking for a bigger contract than the three-year, $17.5 mill deal that Casey Blake got from the Dodgers.

LOL let me know how that turns out, hell I might see what kind of contract I can get.

By i can't take it anymore

January 26, 2009 1:29 PM | Link to this

David hey man, I know you are a traveling man and I need your help. I haven’t been to many large cities and I have no Idea what these places are like. my wife and I are going to move in the next 12 months and we have to pick one of the following: Cleveland, Cincinnati, or ann arbor. we really like the programs in cleveland and cincy the best, but have NO clue what the places are like. we would appreciate your opinion on these places since we are going to have to live there for the next 7 LONG years. thanks man.

By DAP

January 26, 2009 1:35 PM | Link to this

i cant take it ive never been, but id pick cleveland. i heard it rocks.

By KC

January 26, 2009 1:43 PM | Link to this

N8: I think Christopher Walken is a comedic acting god. But he couldn’t save that movie (Click). And we’ll have to agree to disagree on The Benchwarmers. I only made it halfway through that movie before taking it out of the DVD player and thanking God that I didn’t pay $10 to see it at a theater.

By i can't take it anymore

January 26, 2009 1:44 PM | Link to this

DAP…nice one. I hope so

By Threadkiller

January 26, 2009 1:50 PM | Link to this

I can’t Take it Anymore:

Whith the 3 choices you have, Cold, Colder, Coldest!!

I would prefer Cincinnati because of Kentucky! You can live in a nice area in the state of Kentucky and work in Cincy!

By 18 Wheels of Love

January 26, 2009 1:51 PM | Link to this

Flight of the Conchords is excellent. I’m not sure they can top the first season though.

By TennesseePaul

January 26, 2009 1:52 PM | Link to this

I see the rumor of the new Pettitte deal is for around $6 million? He turned down $10 million. I also read where Randy Wolf got his contract pulled by the Astros after that team did an economic evaluation.

By N8

January 26, 2009 2:01 PM | Link to this

KC

Hey, I’ve said all along on this blog, that music and movies are in the eyes/ears of the beholder.

I have ZERO problem with you not liking Click or Benchwarmers.

I happen to like David Spade (not sure why, but I do). You have to take those movies for what they are. They are glorified SNL skits, that are littered with actors that got their break (or fame) on SNL.

Nothing more. Nothing less.

As for Mal Cop. I guess, I took it for granted that it was a kids show, due to the trailer at all those movies I took my kids to in the fall (schools around here have pretty good deal on matinee showings of older movies, with the money going to the schools - a donattion, if you will). Everytime they played the trailer and the scene where Kevin James tried (and failed) to jump through the window came on, it was like that scene in Kindergarten Cop when all the kids laugh in a ridiculous fashion.

It’s like Home Alone, without the good acting… and storyline. LOL!

By BlawgDawg

January 26, 2009 2:02 PM | Link to this

DOB I tried to get into “Flight of the Concords” when it first came started on HBO, but I just couldn’t stomach it. As far as you starting to get into it, has it improved since the first season? Or has it just grown on you now? I guess I could attempt to watch it again to see, but it was just so horrible to me when it first started, I can’t see liking it if it hasn’t gotten any better.

Some shows will grow on you, House is one that did for me. After the first couple of shows I had stopped watching it, just wasn’t enjoying it. Now after everyone else has long loved it, it has grown on me and I can’t get enough of it. Been recording the marathons on USA everytime they come on.

By i can't take it anymore

January 26, 2009 2:06 PM | Link to this

threadkiller…man, tell me about it. our dogs are gonna see that snow (we live in augusta,ga) and look at us like…are you serious? and then mess up the rug as soon as we leave. i don’t know about the kentucky deal because we have to live 20 minutes or less from work.

By David O'Brien

January 26, 2009 2:10 PM | Link to this

NEW BLOGGAGE.

By GTI in Chicago

January 26, 2009 2:13 PM | Link to this

DOB, wouldn’t bother to bring this up here if there hadn’t already been so much (good & welcome) movie talk…

[Roger Ebert has an excellent blog post currently up] (http://blogs.suntimes.com/ebert/2009/01/dudewheresmy_breakfast.html) relating a tale of the big man who was the real-life inspiration for the THE DUDE in the Coen Brothers’ “Big Lebowski”.

THE DUDE managed to get into a somewhat one-sided altercation at Sundance last week, and Ebert’s got a great and funny take on it in his blog. (Btw, IMO, Your MIB Blog and Ebert’s are the two best blogs on the web.) It’s probably worth a few minutes if you have them.

Like I said, wouldn’t bother with mentioning it here, except there’s been so much great movie talk the last few days.

By DAP

January 26, 2009 2:26 PM | Link to this

i cant take it i live in augusta too! did you just finish at MCG?

By Random

January 26, 2009 3:01 PM | Link to this

From a baseball Prospectus chat about MLB prospects this afternoon:

Dan (Denver): Does Hanson start the year in the Bravos rotation? Or is mid-season more likely?

Kevin Goldstein: Personally, I think he should. At the same time, I believe the Braves disagree, and he’ll likely start the year at Triple-A.

Bodhizefa (Durham, NC): In terms of pure hitting ability, who wins between Matt Wieters, Brett Wallace and Jason Heyward?

Kevin Goldstein: Wieters.

DKANDREWS1 (DC): What do the Braves do with Jason Heyward in a few years if Jeff Franceour rebounds and is good again?

Kevin Goldstein: Franceour’s best full year was a 782 OPS — I’ll bet the Heyward blows that out of the water.

By Hubert

January 28, 2009 3:58 PM | Link to this

Is there any possible way for the Braves to return to TBS? You either have to subscribe to MLB Network on Satellite and then you can’t get them half the time due to blackouts or you don’t see them. Don’t the Braves management really care if the people not in Atlanta see the Braves?

By fehrui fvhib

March 15, 2009 3:13 AM | Link to this

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By fehrui fvhib

March 15, 2009 3:14 AM | Link to this

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