Braves

By GermanBravesFan

January 29, 2009 4:46 PM | Link to this

Third?

By Eric from MO

January 29, 2009 4:55 PM | Link to this

I have to admit I am starting to get on the Hinkse bagwagon. He doesnt hit as many homers as Dunn but he does great in a platoon which is what we are looking for. I havent watched him much so I dont know how he defensively but he cant be worse than Dunn. Now I will admit I dont want Dunn. I think he is overated and I believe every supporter will be cursing him when he strikesout with runners on. Dont worry I have been writing down every Dunn supporter and I will be here to tell you to shut up.

By BigHittas

January 29, 2009 4:56 PM | Link to this

Abreu? Ohman? Glav?

All three sounds good to me. Abreu if they can’t get Roberts. I don’t see why they sohould try to get the others mentioned or give up talent just to sign Nady.

By Jeff R

January 29, 2009 4:58 PM | Link to this

DOB, thanks for the updates and the spec…

Ohman - sign. The guy’ll come pretty cheap comparatively and is a proven producer.

Abreu - Isn’t one year enough? The farm system has talent in the pipeline. Why trade solid farm talent for either Nady or Swisher? Abreu is a very acceptable place-holder.

Glavine - Why? He’s 43 coming off surgeries. He appeared to be fading at the end of the ‘06 season. The team has plenty of candidates for the 5th spot in the rotation. Morton and, possibly, Hanson lead the list. It’s time for Tommy to hang ‘em up.

By tr

January 29, 2009 4:58 PM | Link to this

DOB,

I was under the impression that any funds to sign Smoltz (moot point) and Glavine were NOT included in the supposed payroll budget (whatever that is), and, instead, were to be considered separately!?!?! Thanks!

By Chris

January 29, 2009 4:59 PM | Link to this

looks like jason stark from espn has stated that the yankees are now opening the idea of trading swisher and that the braves are the frontrunners. in the same article he states that the braves are out of the running for dunn

By popeye

January 29, 2009 5:02 PM | Link to this

Swisher is ok. Not hot on Nady. Just tired of one year rentals. Abreu is a one or two year fix, but maybe that’s all the Braves need. His plus is not having to give up prospects. I’m in a mood to let the young guns come on, even this year. Not for the futre but for now. With the pitching that has been assembled I belive this can be an unexpectedly good year.

By pfunkatl2

January 29, 2009 5:02 PM | Link to this

Gettin AMPED about the Bravos again, tho I think they are an outfielder(or TWO) away from contention. Pitching looks pretty solid, tho I would LOVE to see Ohman and maybe Glavine thrown into the mix as well. Not sure how Andru could or would fit into the mix, but on the CHEAP I guess it couldn’t hurt….WE’LL SEE!

By Jayson Stark

January 29, 2009 5:04 PM | Link to this

“After trying to push Xavier Nady as the outfielder they’d most prefer to trade, the Yankees are telling teams they’re softening to the idea of dealing Nick Swisher. The Braves head the list of clubs who prefer Swisher because of his versatility and because he’s three years from free agency, not one.

The Braves may bring Andruw Jones to camp as a favor. But every indication is that most of their baseball operation is as wary of Jones as the rest of the sport. “What does he do for that team?” one scout asked. “He can’t come off the bench. He’s regressed defensively. And he’s a horrible hitter. Over the last 1½ seasons, he might have been the easiest out in the major leagues.”“

Also, the Braves have “backed off” of Adam Dunn.

By popeye

January 29, 2009 5:04 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB, how did you like the ‘Visitor’? I saw it and took up playing African drums!

By help me out here--

January 29, 2009 5:04 PM | Link to this

DAP

• if you do the math that is a little over 21M over 3 years like i said.

By AdirondackDave

January 29, 2009 5:07 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the new blog, DOB. I’m a big Glavine fan but not so keen on spending money on him at this point in his career. As I recall, he stunk up Shea during the last 4-6 weeks of ‘07 and than ‘08 was, well, not what he or the Braves were hoping for. Rather spend the cash on Ohman and/or outfield improvement. Abreu can still hit and run and his defense isn’t so bad to rule him out. I did see a few games his games (on tv) at Yankee stadium in that last couple years that were pretty embarrassing. Still had the arm though and he seems like a good team guy.

By Eric B

January 29, 2009 5:08 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the updates DOB…

Out of the remaining moves that were alluded to I’d have to say I’d go all out to re-sign Ohman, I’d let Glavine walk and trade someone like Reyes/Parr and a pospect if that will net us Swisher.

By Jim

January 29, 2009 5:09 PM | Link to this

I like Abreu, too, and Nady, but if we are down to last $7MM, B’s can sign Glavine, Ohman and Hinske for

By David O'Brien

January 29, 2009 5:10 PM | Link to this

tr: as I explained in the comments section of the last blog, that assumption was incorrect. Don’t know where it came from, unless it was from the recommendation I made in a blog at the end of last season regarding Smoltz/Glavine. But Wren never said that….

Popeye: Loved “The Visitor.” Very good movie.

By Eric from MO

January 29, 2009 5:13 PM | Link to this

OMG how many times is the same Jayson Stark going to be posted. It was posted 4 times last blog and again on this one.

By Random

January 29, 2009 5:13 PM | Link to this

cabravesfan: “it’s NOT GOING TO HAPPEN.”

W3LL, H3LL — 90% of the stuff said here NEVER HAPPENS.

Since when was that a prerequisite?

cabravesfan, DOB, No More Morans—

BP’s Joe (he’s way smarter than me!) Sheehan:

“Manny Ramirez has been inscrutable for the better part of two decades; why are we now supposed to think that he’s predictable? He’ll sign somewhere for less than anyone thought he’d get and hit a bunch, play poor defense, and be lampooned by the local media. There’s some Andre Dawson potential here, where Ramirez just signs for a pittance on a one-year deal wherever he wants to play the most, and goes nuts for the six months.”

(Et tu, Bubdylan???)

PS: Maing, wouldn’t it be GREAT if the Braves signed Manny for one year at $15M with an option?

By rammerjammer

January 29, 2009 5:17 PM | Link to this

David, thanks for the LF breakdown. Swisher and Abreu are the only sensible options.

Two very successful teams have let Abreu go of late, so there may be something missing that the stats don’t show. And Swisher may provide more value than his 2008 batting average would indicate (versatile, less expensive).

Abreu has hit his ceiling while Swisher hasn’t. Swisher costs a couple of players but, in the long run, he may make one of your outfield problems go away for several years.

Abreu may sign one year, have a monster season, and then he’s gone and we’re right back where we started. Or he has a bad season and we’re STILL right back where we started.

I think Swisher is the better option, especially when considering the next several years, though I won’t carp if Frank signs Abreu instead.

Nady, no. Dunn, ABSOLUTELY NOT.

By Eric from MO

January 29, 2009 5:17 PM | Link to this

When I first got on this one it was fine. Now everything is Bold. Oh well, at least it aint italics.

By Dadgum

January 29, 2009 5:19 PM | Link to this

Sign Ohman. Like 10 minutes ago would be fine. Don’t worry about Glavine just yet. If he doesn’t want just a spot start and pen work then he just doesn’t fit the Braves’ needs.

Sign Andruw and if he kills it in Dark Star then there is your outfield answer. If not you have Anderson or Blanco with Diaz option. Hey, who is to say Diaz won’t get off the snide. Remember you have the option of KJ in LF and Prado at 2nd.

Of course you can sign a big bat but money can be better spent. Again, youth must be served and we have enough talent to play LF without adding an Abreu or Swisher or Nady.

Rock on………Free Bird!

By David-ATL14

January 29, 2009 5:19 PM | Link to this

Nice options and the usual stellar explanation from the noted blogmaster.

Any of the options there would be a plus with the exception of Dunn.

I just can’t see Wren having more than minimal interest in the Big Donkey whom has left a littered trail of strikeouts and uninspired play everywhere he goes.

By pfunkatl2

January 29, 2009 5:22 PM | Link to this

DOB… SINCE you gave me the heads-up about the Havana Sandwich Shop(which has since burned down)thought I would mention a GREAT lil cuban place in midtown. Las Palmeras, 368 5th street NE Atl. WONDERFUL Masitas de Puerco and maduros, tho the black beans could be better. Inexpensive, convienient to downtown/midtown and a comfortable down-home atmosphere. It IS a bit hard to find though. I wonder if you have heard about any possible re-building of Havana SS tho, miss their black beans.

By superadam

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

Thanks for the new blog I cant believe pitching camp is tomorrow, hurray for baseball, spend on ohman and not abreau, let a youngster platoon with matty d

By ppaddy123

January 29, 2009 5:27 PM | Link to this

As much as the idea of “upgrading our outfield” has been discussed, I wonder if it might be a good idea to stand pat. Bear with me; we have a lot of good young outfielders (Francoeur, Anderson, Schafer, Brandon Jones, Blanco, & Diaz..did I leave anyone out?) I don’t think we have seen the “best” of Brandon Jones (Ithink he had a wrist injury last year)

Anyway, my point is we have some good young talent. Rather than signing a guy for “X” amount right now, maybe the Braves should wait and see how these young guys perform this spring. Hopefully a solid spring will raise their value as “trade bait”.

The same approach could probably be used with our now “full” pitching staff. I think the Braves will re-sign Glavine. The Braves were embarrassed by the whole Smoltz debacle and don’t want to revisit that scene. Just looking at the guys that are on the 40 man roster, the Braves have a ton of pitching (Lowe, Vasquez, Kawakami, Jurrjens, Tim Hudson- DL, Jeff Bennett, Campillo, Buddy Carlyle, Anthony Lerew, & Charlie Morton,) Throw Glavine into that mix and the Braves could afford to move a pitcher.

As I sit here, this is the first time in a while the Braves are going to Spring Training with a very solid team. Sure there are question marks at center and left field but we have enough options “if” Frank Wren decides to make a trade.

By BamaBrave

January 29, 2009 5:31 PM | Link to this

I’m sure Bobby Cox would lean towards the most versatile player…so in that respect I’d say Swisher seems the most Brave-like.

But is there no noise about the Roberts deal? I sure do like the chess move where Kelly Johnson shifts to left, and a full-blooded infielder/leadoff guy takes over at second. Great solution. Maybe I missed some rumors about that…?

By GB

January 29, 2009 5:31 PM | Link to this

What about Jim Edmonds; is he available?

By cabravesfan

January 29, 2009 5:33 PM | Link to this

Random

Since when was that a prerequisite?

A prerequisite for what? posting on the blog? Never said (or even implied) it was- I was just responding to your post…I am sure there are plenty of people that agree that it would be great to sign Manny for $15 million (as I said before, I am not one of them) but even if he would accept it, the braves just don’t have the money.

By nitram odarp

January 29, 2009 5:38 PM | Link to this

i like ppaddy’s idea. most of us last year were hoping that diaz would get a chance to prove he could play everyday. i still have hope for him even with a new knee. sign ohman and glavine, then go see how the youngsters play. the only down side to this is there maybe a chance for a bargan with one of the free agents.

By Herbert

January 29, 2009 5:40 PM | Link to this

and bring hi to camp - DOB

“Call me Hi…”

By Random

January 29, 2009 5:42 PM | Link to this

Xavier Nady — Pros: Strong defensive outfielder who’s coming off a career-best offensive season, including a .305 average with 25 homers, 37 doubles, 97 RBI, .357 OBP and whopping .510 slugging percentage in 555 at-bats for the Pirates and Yankees.

Cons:

Nady with the Pirates:

360 PAs/327 ABs — .330/.383/.535, 13 HRs, 26 2Bs, 57 RBIs, 40 XBHs

Nady with the Yankees:

247 PAs/228 ABs — .268/.320/.474, 12 HRs, 11 2Bs, 40 RBIs, 23 XBHs

By GermanBravesFan

January 29, 2009 5:44 PM | Link to this

Eric from MO: I read somewhere that Hinske signed with the Pirates…

By rammerjammer

January 29, 2009 5:46 PM | Link to this

BamaBrave,

I’m with you on Brian Roberts, but he’s entering the last year of his contract, so he could walk after 2009 and we’d be out a second baseman and the players it took to get him. And those players would likely be better than those it would take to get Swisher.

By Reality

January 29, 2009 5:47 PM | Link to this

Trade Martin Prado and whatever for Swisher. The Yankees reportedly want a cheap utility guy and the New York Post specifically mentioned the Yankees’ interest in getting Prado in a possible Swisher-to-the-Braves trade.

It would end the painfully unfunny “Nitram Odarp” jokes!

By Kudzu

January 29, 2009 5:47 PM | Link to this

Got to Control Spending!

There should be an (age limit rule)in baseball: any player over (whatever age, maybe 35) cannot get guarranteed money. Pay them 1,000,000 if they show up every day, less if they go on the DL, then stack the rack with incentives…Damn, they should be happy to be aloud out on the field…forget all this hero worship, etc.,- like a team or town owes a player anything… my musings.

By The Riddler

January 29, 2009 5:53 PM | Link to this

What’s the point of spending all your money on pitching if you’ve got no hitting?

By BravesFanInRockies

January 29, 2009 5:55 PM | Link to this

BamaBrave,

Admitted, I’m not behind the idea of trading for Roberts. But hear me out. Roberts would be a rental, just like Nady, only costing more this year. ($8 MM vs. $6.55 MM. And BTW he’s seeking an extension from the O’s for 4 years/$40 MM minimum).

He’d probably also cost more in prospects than Nady or Swisher.

Even if the salaries/prospects involved in deals would be the same, in my view:

KJ + Swisher/Nady > KJ + Roberts

But they’re not. Swisher or Nady could almost certainly be had for less, and they’re natural OF, unlike Kelly.

By Bubdylan

January 29, 2009 5:56 PM | Link to this

(Et tu, Bubdylan???) Random

Yeah, but only with a plastic knife. :)

By BravesFanInRockies

January 29, 2009 5:57 PM | Link to this

Kudzu,

Take it up with the players association.

By Rekoj

January 29, 2009 6:05 PM | Link to this

hey guys, did y’all see what Jayson Stark had to say today? the braves are the frontrunners for Swisher and out on Dunn.

By DHD

January 29, 2009 6:06 PM | Link to this

I’ve been yelling…ABREU!!!!! Don’t trade any more young players for somebody like Nady when you can probably get Abreu for a 1 or 2 year deal. Then, the young studs show up.

Sign Abreu, Glavine and Andruw to a minor league contract. For not much risk, you could have an outfield of Francoeur, Andruw and Abreu. IF…IF…they play to their potential, we’d have something good for the money.

By JimK

January 29, 2009 6:09 PM | Link to this

It’s crazy to spend a penny for Glavine. We’re fine with Campillo, Morton, Reyes or Hanson for the #5 slot. If we weren’t sentimental about Smoltz, we certainly shouldn’t be about the former union leader.

As for the OF, Andruw is more or less free, so take him on a minor league deal. Let him work out his batting and weight issues in Gwinnett, where there’s lots less pressue. By midseason we’ll probably have a starting OF of Andruw in left, and Schafer in center, and Jeff F in right. If Terry Pendleton can straighten out the two corner outfielders, he’ll be a big hero.

The extra money? Throw it into Chipper’s long term deal, which is the first thing we need to do.

By The Difference Between Roberts and someone like Nady

January 29, 2009 6:12 PM | Link to this

The Braves need a left fielder. They don’t need a second baseman.

By Random

January 29, 2009 6:12 PM | Link to this

ppaddy123: “As much as the idea of “upgrading our outfield” has been discussed, I wonder if it might be a good idea to stand pat. Bear with me; we have a lot of good young outfielders (Francoeur, Anderson, Schafer, Brandon Jones, Blanco, & Diaz..did I leave anyone out?)”

Dude — we had all them guys last year.

Sure, Schafer may reasonably be expected to have progressed, but he alone would not be enough to rescue the OF from remaining offensively “putrid”.

“Or has anyone forgot that Braves outfielders hit a putrid 27 homers last season and didn’t do anything else well offensively as a group, either?”

cabravesfan: “A prerequisite for what?”

A prerequisite for escaping your snide and snotty dismissive derision.

By richbrave

January 29, 2009 6:17 PM | Link to this

DAVID O’BRIEN:

Before we get any deeper into this upcoming season, did our suggestions about the configuration of the field at GWINNETT bear any fruit, or was everything etched in stone before it was brought up? You may have mentioned this last year, but if so, I missed the response.

By Random

January 29, 2009 6:22 PM | Link to this

Reality: “It would end the painfully unfunny “Nitram Odarp” jokes!”

It’s apparent you haven’t thought this through. I mean, imagine — Kcin Rehsiws?!?

By ROME-BRAVE

January 29, 2009 6:23 PM | Link to this

just to be honest i’m more excited about the braves chances right now than i ever was last year.i just think they just might have enough healthy arm’s, to start the year than they have had in several years. and even if they do not get a power hitting out filder, maybe jeff will have a good year? go braves.

By Ed

January 29, 2009 6:32 PM | Link to this

Look up my nose and you will see your future.

By cabravesfan

January 29, 2009 6:33 PM | Link to this

Random

I was not being snide or snotty (at least not intending to be), nor was I being dismissive. I was simply responding to your comment. The caps were merely for emphasis, since the italics don’t seem to be working.

By ô¿ô

January 29, 2009 6:40 PM | Link to this

really hoping they get one of Abreu, Nady, or Dunn - Please pass on Swisher. i would also like a trade for Ankiel or Ludwick.

By Tomas

January 29, 2009 6:40 PM | Link to this

DOB, a few thoughts, Nady isn’t a good defender, he is an average defender who can only play LF, RF, and 1B. And those 5-9 million you think the Braves have available, are you counting Tim Hudson’s insurance money? If not they could have somewhere around the neighberhood of 12-13 million.

By curtis

January 29, 2009 6:43 PM | Link to this

There’s no way a guy with Abreu’s stats should still be wandering around baseball’s alleyways. There’s got to be more than meets the eye here.

By go braves

January 29, 2009 6:48 PM | Link to this

i dont understand why griffey is not mentioned. he will be ultra cheap and prodective. he can stay for one or two years or until heyward is ready. griffey had an of year last year but i beleive he can be a 270 25 90 guy and for the cheap!

By David O'Brien

January 29, 2009 6:49 PM | Link to this

pfunkATL, where is that Cuban restaurant in midtown, generally speaking? I can mapquest it, but just wondering what it’s near.

By Tomahawk Dawg

January 29, 2009 6:49 PM | Link to this

So you through Dye’s name in there at the end just for fun. Is there any possibility of getting him? Cuz that just seems to make too much sense! Otherwise I’m down with Abreu. The Braves need hitters with plate discipline.

By David O'Brien

January 29, 2009 6:53 PM | Link to this

Tomahawk, Dye’s making $11 mill this season and would cost young talent in a trade. ‘Nuff said.

By Eric from MO

January 29, 2009 6:54 PM | Link to this

Ok German, I knew he was on the verge signing. Didnt know anything was official yet.

By OKGA

January 29, 2009 7:03 PM | Link to this

I would definitely the Braves get Abreu over Dunn or Glavine. Or even Glavine + Ohman. If $6 mil can get Abreu for a year, then hell yeah.

By Woo-Hoo!

January 29, 2009 7:03 PM | Link to this

Mark Bowman says Andruw’s return to Braves unlikely; Andruw Jones wants a major league deal and the Braves won’t hand it over.

That bullet may yet be dodged.

By dogsbrekky

January 29, 2009 7:05 PM | Link to this

PLEASE

1. No to Swisher - he sucks … really

2. Not to short term rental for prospects

3. Give Josh Anderson a go, his MLB numbers when Bobby gave him a well deserved chance were good and he can steal a base or 50+

4. Abreu in LF is the best of the available FA out there and if Frenchy fades (alas 2008) move him to RF and platoon the kids….

5. DUNN - oh god imagine the television joy we would all get when he strikes out looking on a hittable pitch (AGAIN) with Chipper on 2nd and KJ on 3rd when we are down 3-2 in the 9th… (Bobby removes hat, scratches head and has a heart attack)….

or what about Jimmy Edmonds and Diaz platoon… Edmonds is a gamer…. and cheap

PLEASE SIGN OHHHHHH “The Dude” Man now

By Richie

January 29, 2009 7:11 PM | Link to this

I am trying to understand why people have said Andruw is or has been regressing defensively? Can someone please explain that to me. I know he always had a lot of ground to cover in the outfield. Is considered to be regressing because he has always had outfielders not as rangy(not sure if that is the right word)as he was. It looked at times as if they just stuck any two OFs at the corners because he covered so much ground.

By Jacob

January 29, 2009 7:14 PM | Link to this

DOB, You talking about La Fonda?

There’s one on Ponce, headed east, just past the Krispy Kreme (on the right).

There’s also one on Peachtree headed north, before you hit Buckhead (also on the right).

Try the Salmon Burrito!

By Canadianbrave

January 29, 2009 7:14 PM | Link to this

I only have two words! Delmon Young. He is probably available and would look good between Chipper and Brian

By nolie

January 29, 2009 7:15 PM | Link to this

Otherwise I’m down with Abreu. The Braves need hitters with plate discipline. TomDog

yeah, I’m down with Bobby too. two years if possible, but if he signs cheap he will likely only wanta do it for one year.

By Eric from MO

January 29, 2009 7:17 PM | Link to this

Random,”Dude — we had all them guys last year.”

Yeah, but Diez was hurt. You give other guys on playing hurt why not Diez. Blanco had a wrist injury too. Francouer had a bad year. No way around that. However, he has witnessed Andruw and I think he will make sure he turns it around. If nothing else he hasnt even made his money yet. All the other guys were in the minors. We dont know what the rest can do. Anderson has been up some and has done good when up. He has a BA over .300, OBP over .360 which is decent, and is a threat on the bases. May not be a long term fix but will do fine when given the chance.

Besides PPaddy didnt say do nothing. He just said wait til ST. Swisher will still be with the Yankees and their demand would probably go down.

By hop

January 29, 2009 7:19 PM | Link to this

abreu would be a great addition since he is a proven player.

the braves need some insurance that if jeff f does not comeback with a good season; they have someone who can provide the needed punch in the outfield and play good defense.

By Eric from MO

January 29, 2009 7:21 PM | Link to this

Richie if you watched any Dodger game last year you would know why. Its hard to explain other than the fact he just was god awful at defense. He had been regressing his last year or two with the Braves. He was still decent but he know longer covors the same amount of ground. He dives at balls he has no chance of getting and now he cant even covor a normal amount of ground CF should be able to covor. He has gotten slow.

By cdog

January 29, 2009 7:23 PM | Link to this

IT A SAD SITUATION WITH THE BRAVES. IT USED TO BE ABOUT WINNING, WHAT EVER IT TOOK. NOW IT ABOUT SIGNING MEDIOCRE PLAYERS AND SAVING MONEY. THEY WOULD RATHER PLAY SOMEONE LIKE JOSH ANDERSON AND LOSE INSTEAD OF GETTING PLAYERS THAT GOING TO WIN THE WORLD SERIES.ALSO, IT MORE IMPORTANT TO THE BRAVES TO SAVE MONEY THAN TO WIN CHAMPIONSHIPS. ONE WHO WOULD HELP WOULD BE XAVIER NADY. THEN TRADE FOR PLAYERS WITH WINNIG ATTITUDES AND TRADITIONS.

By True Bravaes Fan

January 29, 2009 7:25 PM | Link to this

Sign Glavine and Ohman. Sign Chipper to a contract extension. If Andrum wil accept a ML Minimum contract contingent on him making the club out of spring training, sign him. Then let’s go to spring training with the outfielders we have, and see how they do. Don’t sign Dunn. Don’t sign another Boras client. Don’t trade any young talent. Possibly consider Abreau if he would take 4-6 mil for one year.

By NJBraves

January 29, 2009 7:26 PM | Link to this

Dunn strikes out too much and swisher is not that good. I don’t understand why people value swisher so highly. Look at his career numbers, thay are average at best. Nady would be nice, but only if the asking price is reasonable. to me, it doesn’t matter if he walks next year, they can just move on. I like Abreu the most. He is a patient and consistent hitter, who would provide nice production and protection in the middle of the order. Only problem I see with the lineup is the lack of a legit cleanup hitter.

By Ryan W.

January 29, 2009 7:28 PM | Link to this

2B Kelly Johnson SS Yunel Escobar 3B Chipper Jones C Brian McCann 1B Casey Kotchmann RF Jeff Francouer LF Matt Diaz CF Gregor Blanco

Derek Lowe Jair Jurggens Javier Vasquez Kenshin Kawakami Jo Jo Reyes

This does not inspire confidence. This line up may not even be the 3rd best in the NL East, certainly not close to the Phillies or Mets. And we are to believe that this is the best we can get?

There are some “nice” pieces there, but look at it from the other teams point of view. Does anyone named above bring fear? Does any of them scare you when the game is on the line? Can any of them really be considered clutch?

I’m a Braves fan through and through, will be for the rest of my life, win or lose. As a fan, though, I want to see my team win and when I have to try and talk myself into believing there is a chance that the team above has a shot at winning the WS it makes me want to shake my head in disgust.

I’ve seen enough baseball in my life to know that the team up there is not a winning team. I can have faith, which I will, but deep down I, and so do all of you, know that come October we will not see our team dog-piled on the pitching mound celebrating, and that makes me sad.

So I say sign Manny Ramirez. Why the hell not! If the Braves expect me to live in a fantasy world where I am to believe the team they assembled has a shot at winning the WS then I am going to shout at the top of my lungs, possible or not, that the Braves should sign Manny Ramirez.

I mean could the Braves do anything, other than that, to make winning the WS seem possible?

By FaninFaytown

January 29, 2009 7:28 PM | Link to this

andruw has regressed defensively strictly because of the fact that he was rediculously overweight. if he gets back in shape i have complete confidence he will still be one of the top fielders in the game. Maybe he has lost a step or 2 but he still reads the ball as well as anyone.

By keylargo

January 29, 2009 7:29 PM | Link to this

From MLBTV/John Heyman

Boras is saying he has a three year offer for Manny Ramirez and demanding the Dodgers come up with one too. The Dodgers are saying fine, show us the proof you have an offer. Does this sound like what the Dodgers did with Furcal to anyone else? For months the Dodgers didn’t come up with a legit offer for Furcal until the Braves offered him a contract. However unethical, his agent proved to the Dodgers what the Braves offer was by showing them the Braves’ signed term sheet.

It really sounds like the Dodgers are not playing by the same rules as the rest of the league.

By Steve from OH

January 29, 2009 7:30 PM | Link to this

cdog seems like the clubhouse leader for dumbest post on this particular edition of the MIB blog. Who’s gonna top it?

By proeye

January 29, 2009 7:38 PM | Link to this

It’s funny that John Smoltz gets all the respect in the world and yet he’s had something like 5 surgeries, he is a hard thrower, and he is coming off surgery this past off season. He is over 40 just like Tom Glavine.

On the other hand, it seems that a much higher percentage of people think Tommy is through. He has never spent any time on the disabled list until 2008, he’s only had this ONE surgery, and he is not a hard thrower. Seems to me that the one who is more likely to continue his career is GLAVINE!

I really think that Tom’s problems the past few seasons were due to him having the same problem that just caught up to him last year. He’s already said that he feels better now that he has in a very long time. Of course some of the magnitude of those statements may be inflated somewhat given the situation he is in, but none the less, I think we can assume he does feel good or he would be an outright liar.

Given that he is repaired and would likely fix his problems (don’t be thinking like an old goat from 1970 when surgery meant the end of a career—come on, get with the new century people), I can see Tom Glavine pitching until he is 46. He has that easy motion and his best pitch is a slow ball. so what makes anyone think he can’t pitch this coming season??? I think it’s pretty much a given that he can still do it. Think about the Phillie’s #2 “ace” and how much they differ. Not much huh?

Okay, he may not be able to do it but I think chances are that he may pitch for a lot longer than John Smoltz even though he is older.

He may be worth signing as insurance. Most teams really need to carry 6 pitchers nowadays because at least one of them is not going to work out, have a really bad year, or get injured. Who predicted Tim Hudson would go down? Case closed.

By dogsbrekky

January 29, 2009 7:41 PM | Link to this

keylargo

The McCourts and their entourage are cheap, slimy, bottom of the drawer scuzz…

“I apologize to my late Nanna for saying something bad about someone”

By Random

January 29, 2009 7:44 PM | Link to this

curtis: “There’s no way a guy with Abreu’s stats should still be wandering around baseball’s alleyways. There’s got to be more than meets the eye here.”

rammerjammer: “Two very successful teams have let Abreu go of late, so there may be something missing that the stats don’t show.”

curtis, rammerjammer —

Perhaps it’s this:

Abreu peaked around 2004-2006, and has been slipping slightly ever since. I figure his slide will recommence in 2009.

From 98-06, Abreu’s OBP was in the low .400s (except .393 in 01, and .446 in 99).

2007: OBP = .369; 2008: OBP = .371. Not a real improvement, comparatively.

From 98-02, his SLG was at or well above .500; 03-05, SLG fluxed under, over and under .500.

2008 was his fourth consecutive season with SLG substantially below .500 (~.463 cum SLG for 05-08).

From 99-05, he drew 100+ BBs a year; 2007 = 84 BBs; 2008 = 73 BBs.

From 00 to 08, he’s had right around 700 PAs a season. From 00-06, his groundouts hovered in the mid 100s (high - 160; low – 129; avg - ~145).

In 2007 & 2008, his groundouts skyrocketed to 172 & 192, resp.

All in all, I think Steve from OH is pretty much right, and may have understated it a bit.

Or this:

Steve from OH:

That’s my main concern about Abreu, is his age. He seems to have been declining these last two seasons, and he doesn’t hit for as much power as Dunn. OBP, ISO, BB%, BB/K and SLG all trending slightly to moderately downward. He’ll probably be fine for one or two more seasons, but going three would be a horrible idea, and I’d have reservations about guaranteeing two years to him, myself. But I do like the higher average, and I think he will be an effective player next season for sure (but I do think his .400 OBP days are behind him, as are his .500 SLG days).

By Interested Observer

January 29, 2009 7:45 PM | Link to this

keylargo:

I saw that on MLBTV and thought the same thing you did. Definately the same thing they did with Furcal.

By RC

January 29, 2009 7:49 PM | Link to this

DOB,

The Cuban resturant that pfunkatl2 was talking about is on 5th street between Argonne Ave. and Charles Allen Dr. (about half a mile northeast Krispy Kreme, back in the neighborhood). I can second his review, outstanding Cuban food, and the owner is one of the sweetest ladies you’ll ever meet.

By CF is KEY

January 29, 2009 7:49 PM | Link to this

DOB - I figure (hope) LF figures itself out. I figure (hope) RF figures himself out. CF is the key isn’t it? Who do you like? Who do you expect to start opening day? Hear any scouts thoughts on our CF candidates?

By cheld

January 29, 2009 7:50 PM | Link to this

“So I say sign Manny Ramirez. Why the hell not! ” - Ryan W.

Because his price tag is about $20 million per year more than the Braves have to spend.

But, you know, you make a good point. While we’re at it, we need to trade Campillo and Reyes for Pujols and see if we can get Santana for Morton straight-up.

By N8

January 29, 2009 7:53 PM | Link to this

“Popeye: Loved it. Very good movie.” DOB

I’m not a huge fan of Robin Williams. But to each, his own, I guess. If you liked Popeye, I’m cool with that.

By keylargo

January 29, 2009 7:57 PM | Link to this

On MLB TV at 8 pm, the 2005 Home Run Derby is on. Those who doubt that Bobby Abreu has or had some legit power can see him hit 24 dingers in the first round and win it with 41.

Those 8 or 10 Andruw Jones lovers can see him hit 5 and Tex hit 2. Those thinking those numbers for AJ are inflated remember it was 4 years ago.

By BravesFanInRockies

January 29, 2009 8:09 PM | Link to this

CF is KEY

And it’s a great unknown. Anderson is fast; Blanco can get on base. Both defend well and neither has any power.

Schafer has all the potential in the world and according to some of our denizens who saw him play is just a couple notches below Andruw in his prime defensively. If Schafer is not totally overwhelmed by major league pitching in the way Lillibridge was last season, the job may be his to lose.

By David O'Brien

January 29, 2009 8:10 PM | Link to this

Abreu peaked around 2004-2006, and has been slipping slightly ever since. I figure his slide will recommence in 2009.Random

Oh, really?

In 2006, he hit .297 with 41 doubles, 15 homers, 107 RBI, a .424 OBP and a .462 slugging percentage, while playing nearly two-thirds of the season for the Phillies with their bandbox home park.

In 2008, he hit .296 with 39 doubles, 20 homers, 100 RBI, a .371 OBP and a .471 slugging percentage in 156 games for the Yankees.

Random, do you judge a player on anything other than OBP? I mean, anything whatsoever other than that single stat? Because I have a hard time seeing how he’s been “slipping slightly” since what you call his “peak” years in 2004-06.

By the way, those weren’t his peak years.

In 1999, he hit .335 with 35 doubles, 11 triples, 20 homers, 27 stolen bases, a .446 OBP and .549 slugging percentage.

In 2000, he hit .316 with 42 doubles, 10 triples, 25 homers, 28 stolen bases, a .416 OBP and a .554 slugging percentage.

In 2001, he hit .289 with 48 doubles, a career-high 31 homers, a career-high 110 RBI and a .543 slugging percentage (Oh, wait, his OBP was “only” .393 that season, so that probably overrides all the extra-base hits in your book, where OBP is the end-all stat.)

By Ryan W.

January 29, 2009 8:10 PM | Link to this

Its a sad state when Braves fans can’t believe their team has a right to be winners….

You say 20 million dollars per year for 3 years is too much? There is not one player, or multiple players for that matter, that the Braves could get in the next 3 years at 20 million per year, realistically speaking, that could equal what Man Ram would bring to the table.

So make your jokes all you want and go on and on about how the Braves should sign Adam Dunn or trade for Nick Swisher…..all you are doing is accepting mediocrity because neither of them will make the Braves better.

I’m not wrong in believing the Braves should take a BIG chance on Ramirez and go against their normal FA philosophy….I mean what exactly has the “Braves FA philosophy” given us anyways? A bunch of little Indians and no Cheifs.

By Ole Donk

January 29, 2009 8:11 PM | Link to this

If we sign Andruw, could he change my diapers? It is really getting full and foul. I think the fat f*ck still has the sugar cube stash that caused me to keep him in the four hole until after the all-star break even though it was obvious, even to me, that he’s done.

Wonder if we can get Lockhart or Woodward back? They can hit over .215 and scratch betwen my ears.

By David O'Brien

January 29, 2009 8:12 PM | Link to this

Random, by the way, the other big reason Abreu is so attractive is that he might be had for just a one-year deal, as we said above.

By mb

January 29, 2009 8:13 PM | Link to this

There are a couple of scenarios I like in what the Braves are considering.

The first move is to sign Ohman, regardless of the rest. We need a quality left hand pitcher in the bullpen. Pay the man the money!!

Out of the other moves?

The move I like most is, to trade for Brain Roberts, move KJ to left to platoon with Diaz. Roberts is a All Star second baseman, great on base percentage, steals 30-40 bases, switch hitter, a lot to like about adding him to the team.

If we can’t trade for Roberts, I like trading for Swisher better than the rest of the outfield deals. More upside, 28 years old, plays multiple positions and has a contract in place for several years. Another switch hitter with power. ( He does play first base, if Kochman can’t get his bat going this year, we have Swisher. )

Pass on Nady. Scott Boras and 1 year left on contract, why bother.

Abreu would be okay to add to the team on a short contract. He will be a solid hitter, has power and does steal a few bases. However, he is another left hand batter, hasn’t played left field in 10 years? He would be a plus player.

I would pass on signing Glavine, as long as the Braves play their cards better, in the public’s eye, than the Smoltz mess. I know a lot of fans would say, he’s been with the team all those years, just sign him. I wouldn’t, we don’t need him. Jorge Campillo put up much better numbers than Glavine last year. Glavine is just coming off his first shoulder surgery at age 42, this just sounds bad. We have several other pitchers already on the payroll that can pitch better than Glavine. Why take the chance and waste the money, no offense Tom, your a great guy and had a great career. But, It’s time to give some other pitchers the chance.
Wren use the money you are thinking about spending on Glavine and sign Ohman. The bullpen will be much stronger if you do.

thanks

mark.

By David O'Brien

January 29, 2009 8:16 PM | Link to this

Jacob, we’re not talking about the La Fonda chain. we’re talking about dive Cuban joint in Midtown, and about the sadly closed (after a fire) Havana Sandwich shop on Buford Highway just off N. Druid Hills….

cdog: THANKS for the ALL CAPS. Would’ve hated to miss that comment of yours.

By Mike

January 29, 2009 8:18 PM | Link to this

ANYONE

Can anyone tell me what channel MLBTV is on? I have Att U-Verse and I have the 2nd best package. I do get NFL Network. Do you have to pay extra for MLBTV or what? Anyone who knows, please respond.

By Eric from MO

January 29, 2009 8:21 PM | Link to this

Ryan,”So I say sign Manny Ramirez. Why the hell not!”

WE HAVE THE FKING MONEY! WOULD YOU SHUT THE FK UP WITH YOUR NON-SENSE! I would like a Ferrari and I could scrape up a few hundred thousand and put down a down payment, but then I would be broke for the next ten years. We are in a depression, it isnt going to happen. When you come up with an idea that could actually happen then state it. Until then shut the f**k up!

By Steve from OH

January 29, 2009 8:25 PM | Link to this

DOB, take a gander at this. There’s a slight (emphasis on slight) downward trend on most of the stats after 2004 except AVG. Some it’s not noticeable, others it’s a bit more pronounced. It’s nothing to worry about in the near term IMO, but something I’d worry about 2 or 3 years from now. But like you said, he’s likely to come with a 1-year deal, so that makes him look a lot more attractive, and makes those trends much less of an issue. I’ve never been opposed to the idea of getting him anyway, as I think he’ll definitely be an effective player for anyone in 09 and he’ll represent a huge upgrade for us. I just personally prefer Dunn because I really think we could use his huge power. Just my humble opinion though.

By 18 Wheel s of Love

January 29, 2009 8:32 PM | Link to this

LaFawnda?!?! We talking Napoleon Dynamite now?

By Eric from MO

January 29, 2009 8:32 PM | Link to this

DOB loved your 8:10 post. Seems like some believe the only stat that means anything is OBP. Nothing else matters.

By keylargo

January 29, 2009 8:36 PM | Link to this

Mike

Bad news for ATT subscribers as far as MLB network goes. I have it on Directv (channel 213) but ATT does not carry it. Found this online.

Fast-forward to January 1 when the MLB Channel launched with Cablevision Systems Corp. (CVC), Charter Communications Inc. (CHTR), Comcast, Cox Communications Inc., DIRECTV (DTV), Time Warner Cable Inc. (TWC) and Verizon Communications Inc. (VZ). The only notable absences were AT&T Inc. (T) and DISH Network Corp. (DISH).

By MiamiBrave

January 29, 2009 8:38 PM | Link to this

so it looks like Bonds might not be a viable option to platoon with Diaz anymore…

but seriously…

DOB

read the story on Druw by Bowman, I would have to believe Chipper might have been the one to tell him bout takin a minor league deal and pi$$in him off…don’t think anyone else would tell him that but Hoss

Also, you lived down here coverin’ the Marlins…any favorite Latin/Cuban place down here?

By MiamiBrave

January 29, 2009 8:39 PM | Link to this

so it looks like Bonds might not be a viable option to platoon with Diaz anymore…

but seriously…

DOB

read the story on Druw by Bowman, I would have to believe Chipper might have been the one to tell him bout takin a minor league deal and pi$$in him off…don’t think anyone else would tell him that but Hoss

Also, you lived down here coverin’ the Marlins…any favorite Latin/Cuban place down here?

By rotty

January 29, 2009 8:40 PM | Link to this

Abreu is on the downhill slide and at 35 is not what the Braves need.

Swisher flat out sucks from head to toe. He is not a 4hole hitter, not a 35+HR OF (which the Braves desperately need) and has a lead anchor around the throat three year deal that will cost valuable prospects.

If Swisher were a FA today he would get a 1yr 3mm deal folks. You are lying to yourself if you think otherwise so why pay him 22mm over the next three years. That is just completely asinine.

Dunn is rough but 40hr/100 rbis is worth it. Wait him out don’t p** money or prospect away on Abreu or Swisher.

Swisher will be a depressing signing and one Wren will regret. Market it down Frank - you will rue the day you signed him.

By brAves Sucios

January 29, 2009 8:51 PM | Link to this

Glavine is definitely either at or near the end of his career, but judging his entire 2007 season based on basically his only bad streak of the year, which took place as the entire Mets organization was re-defining the late season collapse doesn’t take into account the fact that he:

• pitched over 200 innings
• was fifth in the league in quality starts, and
• had 17 starts in which he allowed two runs or less.

And last year the complete lack of run support again pushed several potential W’s into the No Decision or L column. Even if he had 75-80% of that gas left in the tank he would be a worthwhile option as a solid number 5, and with a little offensive support could very well get 10-15 wins.

Again, I know at his age and coming off of a surgery like he is all that is a gamble, but if there’s a way to come up with a few million with some incentives built in I can’t see not taking the chance.

By Ryan W.

January 29, 2009 8:52 PM | Link to this

When did MLB introduce a salary cap?

For the record….Do I think the Braves have the balls to sign Man Ram? No. But should they? Yes.

Maybe YOU don’t have the money, but Liberty Media does. Yeah maybe Liberty Media has decided that 100 million is the budget, but that only means THEY decided that was THEIR budget.

Things change…..and if you have an opportunity to do something bigger and better to make MORE money, you do it right? Right?

Signing Man Ram brings more fans to the stadium, making you money, making the playoffs makes you more money, winning the WS makes you even more money. We are talking about profits. The only reason they won’t sign him is because there “may” be a chance that they make less money with him than without him. Don’t be foolish to believe that spending an extra 20 million per year more for Man Ram puts the Braves in the red.

Maybe I’m crazy to think the Braves should expand their budget to sign Man Ram. Doesn’t make me wrong and it doesn’t make me an idiot either.

It makes me, apparently, one of only a few Braves fans who thinks the Braves organization should forget about signing one year rent a players and take a chance on a player that can make the Braves a WS contender rather than an NL East cellar dweller.

Its disturbing to see supposed “fans” of the Braves trash on other Braves fans for having hope that THEIR team could step up and do something that IS POSSIBLE. Its one thing to be the KC Royals, who play in no market and make very little money. Its another to be in one of the biggest markets in the US and be owned by a billion dollar company.

You say they don’t have the “F@#$ING MONEY?” I say you don’t know what you are talking about. Of course they have the money….they just don’t want to spend it…….and that should make us angry, not accepting.

By Bartman

January 29, 2009 8:53 PM | Link to this

I still like Jermaine Dye. I wouldn’t cry over Abreu for sure if he was signed. Nady is a great fit but I don’t like trading away another prospect or two for a short term fix. Although, if the season isn’t panning out in July…he could be good trade bait to replace what was lost. I am a big Chipper fan! He grew up not too far from me. However, Can you imagine the prospects that could be obtained for him? Maybe Tampa or Texas? Two places where he wouldn’t mind playing. Maybe even in Boston with Smoltz. He would at least get to go out on a winning team like John wanted to do. Can’t blame them really. Like it or not, it’s rebuilding time…time to transition.

By Eric from MO

January 29, 2009 9:11 PM | Link to this

Ryan W. we are in a depression. Go look at some of Liberty’s businesses. We are lucky their budget is 100 million.

By keylargo

January 29, 2009 9:13 PM | Link to this

Don’t ever say watching The O’Reilly Report isn’t rewarding. I just heard a really good joke told by the conservative Republican Bill Clinton.

Two dogs were watching a pair of Break Dancers. One replied to the other: “If we did that we’d get wormed”.

By Steve

January 29, 2009 9:19 PM | Link to this

DOB - Have you been to Papi’s on Ponce (a Cuban place right next to Mary Mac’s)? I’ve only had the Thursday lunch special, which is garlic pork and the BEST garbanzo beans I’ve ever tasted. It is amazing.

By f.n. hale

January 29, 2009 9:23 PM | Link to this

Has Nick Swisher had a great off season or what? I mean, the dude could have been had for a bag of balls after last year and now some seem to think he’s our answer in LF. Matt Carruth of FanGraphs says he was basically unlucky last year and should have no trouble returning to his norm, but I’m not sure he’s been around long enough to know what he’ll be, plus his norm wasn’t great. I’ve liked the guy since reading an SI article about him a couple years ago. He seems like a cool guy like his dad (had a beer or three with his dad back in the day). Folks seem to think he could be had cheaply (in prospects) but has anyone that knows said how cheaply? Might be worth a flyer if we didn’t give up much but that’s a pretty sizeable contract to gamble on in these days and times.

By Salty Dawg

January 29, 2009 9:28 PM | Link to this

Ryan W.

“Its disturbing to see supposed “fans” of the Braves trash on other Braves fans for having hope that THEIR team could step up and do something that IS POSSIBLE. Its one thing to be the KC Royals, who play in no market and make very little money. Its another to be in one of the biggest markets in the US and be owned by a billion dollar company.”

Believe me when I say that I feel your pain on this one. In a perfect world I would love to see the Braves sign Manny and have him lose the attitude and help win the division, or more. What you have to realize is that the billion dollar company you are referring to is a publicly owned corporation. It isn’t like the CEO of Liberty Media can just say, “you know what, I want the Braves to sign Manny and I’m going to give them the resources to do it.” There is (or should be, but who knows anymore) a chain of financial responsibility. The CFO answers to the CEO, the CEO answers to the board and the board answers to the shareholders. I don’t know if you are aware, but Liberty’s stocks have taken a huge hit over the last several months. I just don’t think they would be willing to risk the backlash of throwing a lot more money into the Braves right now. And there aren’t too many teams increasing payroll right now, so I guess we are lucky we got the bump that we did.

By Salty Dawg

January 29, 2009 9:35 PM | Link to this

keylargo

“Bad news for ATT subscribers as far as MLB network goes. I have it on Directv (channel 213) but ATT does not carry it. Found this online.”

Gotta love DirectTV. MLB Network? Check. NFL Network? Check. NFL Sunday Ticket? Check. ESPN Gameplan? Check.

I keep hearing people complain about their cable providers and all I can say is I’ve had DirectTV for 3 years now and I have never been dissatisfied.

By Mike

January 29, 2009 9:35 PM | Link to this

Ryan W.

I agree that Manny would be a HUGE player to have, especially if Bobby can tame the whole “Manny being Manny” stuff and keep him from causing any issues.

However, if Liberty Media, who no doubt has plenty of money, doesn’t want to spend the money, then there is nothing anyone can do about. Do you really think they care THAT much? I don’t. They took the Braves off Time Warner’s hands to off load some bad stock, and reaped the benefits of a tax break. I have every belief that they will sell the team when their 3 year waiting period is up. Until then they are going to stick by their statements that convinced the league to not drop payroll and leave current management in place. As well as stay out of the way. All they do is pay the bills. And if they don’t want to shell out extra money, then they don’t have to. I guess we should be lucky that they even raised payroll.

And by the way, Atlanta is not “on of the biggest markets”. If I am not mistaken, we are considered a mid market team.

By Mike

January 29, 2009 9:38 PM | Link to this

Thanks Keylargo!

Hopefully they pick it up soon.

By FadeAway

January 29, 2009 9:39 PM | Link to this

Maybe I’m crazy to think the Braves should expand their budget to sign Man Ram. Doesn’t make me wrong and it doesn’t make me an idiot either. Ryan

it makes you a wrong, crazy idiot dude.Rant and rave all you want, they wouldn’t sign him if they had enough in the budget and they don’t. You one of them guys maxes out your credit card every time you want something? Or are you even old enough to have a credit card in your own name? Doesn’t sound like it.

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

January 29, 2009 9:42 PM | Link to this

If I had my rathers I would rather see Abreu in LF but if he gets signed then Glavine won’t and I think Glavine is important. I think the best option the Braves have at this point is to sign Glavine and then let Blanco, Anderson, and Schafer fight it out for CF and the LF platoon with Diaz.

By Salty Dawg

January 29, 2009 9:45 PM | Link to this

FaninFaytown

“andruw has regressed defensively strictly because of the fact that he was rediculously overweight. if he gets back in shape i have complete confidence he will still be one of the top fielders in the game. Maybe he has lost a step or 2 but he still reads the ball as well as anyone.”

Yes, if only Andruw would lose the extra weight he would be great defensively. And if only he wasn’t dead set on pulling every single pitch he would be great offensively. And if only he cared enough to do either of these things he would be worth signing.

By hop

January 29, 2009 9:47 PM | Link to this

i like tom glavin,but i don’t know if he has any gas in the tank!

dave you are right on target with the stats you presentd on bobby abreu.

he would provide a legit hitter in an outfield that lacks power and average.

this is a no brainer and the braves need abreu’s bat to be able to compete with the mets and phillies.

By dogsbrekky

January 29, 2009 9:56 PM | Link to this

Liberty Media has approx $7.28 Billion in net assets but is forecast to lose in the Dec 09’ year approximately $2.40 a share after losing $2.87 to Dec 08 (per share)..

The company has a very complex web of ownership/businesses but comparing it to other media providers, online advertising, cable tv operators etc, IT IS NOT in a particularly safe industry in this economic tsunami..

I think they have been profitable so far on their Braves ownership (seem to recall making $20+ in 2007) after acquiring the team for $450M equivalent.

I cannot see them upping the ante at this time UNLESS the spondoolies forked out would give a return on capital of near 15% or so….

By David O'Brien

January 29, 2009 9:59 PM | Link to this

Steve, I’ve driven by that place a thousand times, wondered if it was any good. Never heard anyone say anything about it. Now that you have, it’s on the list. Nothing quite like good Cuban food.

By Salty Dawg

January 29, 2009 10:00 PM | Link to this

Ryan W.

“2B Kelly Johnson SS Yunel Escobar 3B Chipper Jones C Brian McCann 1B Casey Kotchmann RF Jeff Francouer LF Matt Diaz CF Gregor Blanco

Derek Lowe Jair Jurggens Javier Vasquez Kenshin Kawakami Jo Jo Reyes

This does not inspire confidence. This line up may not even be the 3rd best in the NL East, certainly not close to the Phillies or Mets. And we are to believe that this is the best we can get?”

You are right. But flash back to April 1, 2008. How does this roster sound? A. Iwamura 2b
C. Crawford lf C. Pena 1b B.J. Upton cf C. Floyd dh W. Aybar 3b E. Hinske rf D. Navarro c J. Bartlett ss J. Shields sp A. Sonnanstine sp M. Garza sp E. Jackson sp J. Hammel sp

How would you have rated that lineup in the AL East? Point being, anything can happen. All the Wren can do is build the best team possible within the constraints he has and hope for the best. You seem to think he should throw caution to the wind and sign Manny even though they don’t have the payroll to do it. Well, if not having the money doesn’t matter, then why don’t you do us all a favor and just buy the Braves. Then you can sign Manny and whoever else is available. Not having the money doesn’t matter, right?

By David O'Brien

January 29, 2009 10:01 PM | Link to this

Yeah maybe Liberty Media has decided that 100 million is the budget, but that only means THEY decided that was THEIR budget.Ryan W.

Uh, yes. That’s generally how it works, particularly in a sport with no salary cap. The owner of the team would be the one to decide how much money he or she or it will spend.

Who should decide how much Liberty spends on payroll if not Liberty and/or Braves management? You?

By Ryan W.

January 29, 2009 10:01 PM | Link to this

I always wondered why come playoff time Braves home games didn’t sell out…..now I know.

Maybe Mike is right in what Liberty Media is doing and if that is really the case then that blows, but I will always talk about what I think the Braves should do in order to WIN the WS. Going into this off season the Braves needed two pieces to make them signifcantly better, an ace and a clean up hitter who can play LF. They didn’t solve either problem.

How about I just be like most of you?

Should we sign Abreu or Dunn? Who gives a crap, neither will help the Braves win the WS…I mean that is what we are all hoping for right, the Braves winning the WS?

You can all have discussions about which non helpful rent a player the Braves should sign in order to survive another mediocre year, I don’t care.

You all talk as if getting Man Ram is IMPOSSIBLE. It isn’t. Probable? No it isn’t either.

I would rather hope and rant on how the Braves should get Man Ram over living in your cynical world where I have to come to grips on who would be better Dunn or Abreu, when in reality neither would.

It would be better to save the money Dunn or Abreu wants, trade newly aquired Lowe, and blow up the freakin team.

The whole point is winning the WS and the pieces they have put together don’t do that, SO BLOW IT UP, and keep trying until you do.

Blow the team up and start fresh or sign Man Ram. At least one of those two options gets us a hell of a lot closer to winning a WS then the team we have now does.

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

January 29, 2009 10:02 PM | Link to this

Whoops…posted this on the wrong Blog! Here we go:

Everybody on this Blog who subscribes to ChopTalk—

When you get your February issue, CHECK OUT PAGE 62!!! Great stuff!! All about someone we all know and love.

Hey, I may be too young to have seen Hank Aaron play, but I do have one “connection”, if you will, to the Hammer—I was born on the anniversary of his record-breaking homer!!

Night, all!

By keylargo

January 29, 2009 10:04 PM | Link to this

SaltyDawgI keep hearing people complain about their cable providers and all I can say is I’ve had DirectTV for 3 years now and I have never been dissatisfied.

Plus, they have a great MLB baseball HD package. You get every game, every day except when Fox does their Saturday afternoon game. And then if your team plays at night, you will get it.

They also have a screen with up to eight games going at once and if you want to watch the opponents announcers for a different view, just watch their feed instead of the Braves.

I forgot exactly what it cost for the package but it is about $200.

By GSU-Lee

January 29, 2009 10:07 PM | Link to this

DOB, you talk a lot of food…what about drinks? What are your drinks of choice?

By goldenglove002

January 29, 2009 10:07 PM | Link to this

If the braves do run into a situation where they are running low on money for this year and still have needs to fill, might it be a good idea to talk with Chipper Jones about a new contract? If I’m correct, he is set to make 10 million this year. Why not re-sign him on a 3 year deal where he doesn’t make as much this year (like what he did in 2006). Throw in some incentives based on playing time and I’m sure he’d be fine with it. He’s done it before, and I think he is dedicated enough to helping the Braves win to do it again. Either way, I hope Mr. Wren gives him a new deal.

Also what are some of the other OF options look like to the Braves. Maybe guys like Griffey or Edmonds would be decent fits as a stopgap for the prospects who are on their way and come as cheeper options than the 4 you list?

By indybrave

January 29, 2009 10:07 PM | Link to this

Would I be safe in assuming that the Braves will see how the youngsters will play in Spring Training and then decide on what to do with the outfield. I would sign Ohman and let Andruw and Glavine do whatever they want. The closer spring training gets, the less the Braves will have to give up (either dollars for FA or prospects for trade). I’m just a joker that watches a lot of baseball and not a GM by any stretch of the imagination. Just wondering how far off base I am.

By Random

January 29, 2009 10:11 PM | Link to this

FaninFaytown: “andruw has regressed defensively strictly because of the fact that he was rediculously overweight.”

That and the torn cartilage in his knee, I’d venture.

“if he gets back in shape i have complete confidence he will still be one of the top fielders in the game.”

That and if his knee successfully recovers from last May’s surgery.

Ryan W.: “So I say sign Manny Ramirez. Why the hell not! If the Braves expect me to live in a fantasy world where I am to believe the team they assembled has a shot at winning the WS then I am going to shout at the top of my lungs, possible or not, that the Braves should sign Manny Ramirez.”

Yes, my brother — say it loud and say it proud.

NJBraves: “Dunn strikes out too much”

You got that right, bud!!!

And on top of that, to make matters even worse, he doesn’t ground out near enough — no way!!!

We wanna see ‘im run ‘em out — that’s how we’ll know he loves the game!!!

(sarcasm)

Eric from MO: “Yeah, but Diez was hurt.”

Nah — he was in free fall well before his injury.

He had a good Apr (23 games, 80 ABs) — .313/.329/.413, 11 RBIs, 25 Hs, 33 TBs.

He had a horrible May (17 games, 43 ABs) — .163/.196/.163, 2 RBIs, 7 Hs, 7 TBs.

He tackled the wall on 27 May and left the game after the 7th.

Now you might want to blame Cox’s handling of him, and I wouldn’t disagree. I would point out, however, that it will be Cox handling him again in 2009, and he’ll likely handle him the same way as last May, the way it seems most denizens would like to see — in a lefty-righty LF platoon.

You should share the rest of your comment with DOB.

“Or has anyone forgot that Braves outfielders hit a putrid 27 homers last season and didn’t do anything else well offensively as a group, either?”

dogsbrekky: “DUNN - oh god imagine the television joy we would all get when he strikes out looking on a hittable pitch (AGAIN) with Chipper on 2nd and KJ on 3rd when we are down 3-2 in the 9th…”

Better than striking out on an unhittable pitch, a la Frenchy/Jones. At least we’ll know he’s trying, especially if Bobby can convince him to run back to the dugout.

cabravesfan — Okay — sorry. My bad.

By David O'Brien

January 29, 2009 10:11 PM | Link to this

GSU-Lee: Black coffee.

By brent a.

January 29, 2009 10:12 PM | Link to this

*I keep hearing people complain about their cable providers and all I can say is I’ve had DirectTV for 3 years now and I have never been dissatisfied. *

Amen to that!

I have had Directv most of the time since 1995. Everything at your fingertips, for a price.

So many people in this day and age want to complain about paying for stuff they don’t want; but, with Directv, I’ve always been happy that I have had the ability to purchase whatever I wanted, as opposed to griping about something not being available.

With Directv, if you want it, you can have it.

By Salty Dawg

January 29, 2009 10:12 PM | Link to this

keylargo

“Plus, they have a great MLB baseball HD package. You get every game, every day except when Fox does their Saturday afternoon game. And then if your team plays at night, you will get it.

They also have a screen with up to eight games going at once and if you want to watch the opponents announcers for a different view, just watch their feed instead of the Braves.

I forgot exactly what it cost for the package but it is about $200.”

Haven’t tried the mlb package since I usually only watch the Braves. But it sounds just like the NFL package, which is awesome. They have the same mix channel where you can watch 8 games and toggle the sound to whichever you want to listen to. Then they have the “red zone” channel that automatically changes to whatever game has a team in the red zone at the time. Probably sounds like I work at DirectTV, but I really am just an extremely satisfied customer. I’ll never switch back to cable.

By Eric from MO

January 29, 2009 10:13 PM | Link to this

Ryan W. when did Atlanta become a big market team. Right now there are 18 teams who have a bigger city in terms of population and the people there are no richer than any other city. They no longer have TBS whch gave them money and also let the whole country watch them almost every night.

By indybrave

January 29, 2009 10:14 PM | Link to this

I guess short and sweet. They don’t seem too high on any FA and don’t want to give up younglings for a one year rental.

By BravesFanInRockies

January 29, 2009 10:15 PM | Link to this

I would rather hope and rant on how the Braves should get Man Ram over living in your cynical world where I have to come to grips on who would be better Dunn or Abreu, when in reality neither would.Ryan W

OK, great. I can just scroll past any post I see with your name on it and save a few seconds I’ll never get back.

Thanks!

By brent a.

January 29, 2009 10:15 PM | Link to this

Hey, I may be too young to have seen Hank Aaron play, but I do have one “connection”, if you will, to the Hammer—I was born on the anniversary of his record-breaking homer!!

Interesting,

last year, I saw him in my neighborhood the day before the anniversary of his record-breaking homer. Which also, sadly, was the day his mother died.

By BravesFanInRockies

January 29, 2009 10:17 PM | Link to this

keylargo

Fully agree about DirecTV. I bought the MLB Extra Innings package last year and the College FB package this year. Both were well worth it. Saved a bunch of money I would have otherwise spent at sports bars.

By athensmatt

January 29, 2009 10:22 PM | Link to this

DOB,

recently you’ve talked about movies and i was wondering, are you a fan of zombie films? just curious what your interest on those are. i’ve gotten into zombie movies a lot over the past couple weeks. if you haven’t seen any of these, i recommend you watch cemetery man (or dellamorte dellamore), evil dead and evil dead 2, and 28 days later.

can’t wait to hear about hanson at the voluntary pitching camp.

By goldenglove002

January 29, 2009 10:22 PM | Link to this

well just because the Braves no longer have TBS doesn’t mean that they aren’t still something of a large market team. By no means are they like Los Angeles or New York in terms of the amount of potential fans concentrated into one area, but Braves fans exist all over the country still from the times of TBS.

By GSU-Lee

January 29, 2009 10:22 PM | Link to this

DOB, ok, me too. I am not big on starbucks though, it is a little bitter sometimes. BY the way, you wanna talk food? Go to acworth and eat at Henry’s Louisiana Grill. Some of the best cajun food you will ever have in your life. It is phenomenal..the AJC even wrote about the place a year or two ago

By Steve McP

January 29, 2009 10:25 PM | Link to this

Ryan, love your passion, but Manny? A clubhouse cancer, if he decides he will play then all well and good, but mortgaging the franchise for the next 2 or 3 years? If we had wanted to spend 25% of the budget on one outfield player Tex would have been a better call, but the big bucks need to be spent on the Pitching not the hitting, pitching will win the pennant and pitching will win the WS - do I think the Braves will win the WS? Not particularly but I think we have more chance with the pitching moves that Wren has made, we will see if Lowe really is an ace, but also if he is not and Hudson comes back strong we will have a real shot in 2010. I don’t think Manny would make a WS contender of the Braves, even if they wanted to mortgage the franchise for the chance.

By Ryan W.

January 29, 2009 10:27 PM | Link to this

You know what you all win

Signing Man Ram is impossible…..

The Braves are a mid market team that can’t spend like the Mets and Yankees…….

Doesn’t change the fact that they just spent 60 million over the next 4 years on a 35 year old, career .500 winning, pitcher…..

Doesn’t change the fact that our lead off hitter this coming year is most likely going to be a guy with a career .350 obp and Ks twice as much as he does walk…..

Doesn’t change the fact that we don’t have a clean up hitter…..

I would rather believe the Braves should sign Man Ram over accepting that crap mentioned above….but hell what do I know.

The fact is it doesn’t matter if the Braves sign Dunn or Abreu because neither will get the job done.

They were better off rebuilding than doing what they did this off season, but since they decided to waste 40 million on nothing then I would like them to spend another 20 to 25 on a guy that AT LEAST gives us a realistic hope that the Braves have a shot at winning the WS.

Or to put it in another way….I would rather you call me an idiot over being like you….accepting of a mediocre team.

By dan

January 29, 2009 10:28 PM | Link to this

I really hope that this is not true about Andruw. I really want him to get his career on track. It is unfathomable to me that a person is so stubborn that he cannot realize that he needs to make an adjustment.

Dave, are you hearing the same things about Andruw?

Do you really think that his defense has regressed so much? If healthy, I have to believe that he can still play a good CF, especially seeing that he is in such good shape.

By Steve McP

January 29, 2009 10:31 PM | Link to this

Be careful with the MLB channels, I live nearly 3 hours from Atlanta and still have a blackout on Braves games, would love to watch them on MLB TV, but will have to use a relatives address in MA to make it happen!

By UNCBrave

January 29, 2009 10:32 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Is that order of OF, yours or the Braves or both??

Also, I think Swisher would be horrific. Swisher would give you what a combined platoon of Brandon Jones and Matt Diaz would..

By UNCBrave

January 29, 2009 10:32 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Is that order of OF, yours or the Braves or both??

Also, I think Swisher would be horrific. Swisher would give you what a combined platoon of Brandon Jones and Matt Diaz would..

By Wide Right

January 29, 2009 10:33 PM | Link to this

I’d like to see if we could trade for Jeremy Hermida…otherwise pay $5MM for Abreu, a few more for Ohman and tell Glavine “thanks for the memories.”

By BravesFanInRockies

January 29, 2009 10:36 PM | Link to this

goldenglove2002

You’re right. There are a lot of Braves fans who don’t live in the southeast and picked up the habit when so many games were on TBS.

I think that affinity will fade, perhaps quickly. Just about every team’s games in the regional market are on basic cable/satellite, mostly on local Fox nets. And if the Braves aren’t available on basic cable, baseball fans will tend to follow the local club. And since ESPN is such a homer (Yanks, Sox, Mets), it’ll be really hard to closely follow the Braves unless you buy a premium sports package or subscribe to XM. You have to be really committed to do that.

By dogsbrekky

January 29, 2009 10:36 PM | Link to this

Random you totally crack me up mate…

On a personal note, I was planning my comeback as a pitcher at 43 years of age but slipped on some bloody black ice in Central Park this am and have ripped my right medial ligament/s rather badly

sorry I will not be able to front up to Camp Roger tomorrow

I trust the Braves will do okay without me yet again

By JC from UT

January 29, 2009 10:36 PM | Link to this

DOB: Would FW/BC have any interest in aquiring Marcus Thames from Detroit? Granted he is not a proven homerun hitter but could be a guy to take a chance on. He has the potetial to hit 25-30 HRS. Yes he would cost prospects in return but probably not anyting more than what Swisher would cost. Also Detroit has no room for him. Another team with a glut of outfielders is Washington. How about Austin Kearns or Josh Willingham. Again not prototypical power hitters but could supply enough power and and hit for enough average to kep a ralley going. The new LF does not neccesarily have to be a 30 hr guy just someone who can hit 20-25 hr and does not hit into numerous inninig ending double plays. Any thoughts?

By Ryan W.

January 29, 2009 10:39 PM | Link to this

If we had wanted to spend 25% of the budget on one outfield player Tex would have been a better call, but the big bucks need to be spent on the Pitching not the hitting, pitching will win the pennant and pitching will win the WS - do I think the Braves will win the WS? Not particularly but I think we have more chance with the pitching moves that Wren has made, we will see if Lowe really is an ace, but also if he is not and Hudson comes back strong we will have a real shot in 2010. SteveMcP

You are right pitching does do all of that, but didn’t the Braves have that for 15 years? What killed us all of those years? We didn’t have a clutch bat in the line up. You know the one that can tear up great pitching?

One WS in 18 years with great pitching and no hitting.

Braves philosophy is built on a strong pitching staff. Thats great, but if you can’t score runs when it counts then you aren’t going to win and that has ALWAYS been the Braves problem.

I will say it again….Do I think the Braves will sign Man Ram? There is a better chance of the Earth colliding with the Moon, but at least I am TRYING to talk about what has really been holding the Braves back all of these years.

The lack of a truely great hitter.

By Ryan W.

January 29, 2009 10:39 PM | Link to this

If we had wanted to spend 25% of the budget on one outfield player Tex would have been a better call, but the big bucks need to be spent on the Pitching not the hitting, pitching will win the pennant and pitching will win the WS - do I think the Braves will win the WS? Not particularly but I think we have more chance with the pitching moves that Wren has made, we will see if Lowe really is an ace, but also if he is not and Hudson comes back strong we will have a real shot in 2010. SteveMcP

You are right pitching does do all of that, but didn’t the Braves have that for 15 years? What killed us all of those years? We didn’t have a clutch bat in the line up. You know the one that can tear up great pitching?

One WS in 18 years with great pitching and no hitting.

Braves philosophy is built on a strong pitching staff. Thats great, but if you can’t score runs when it counts then you aren’t going to win and that has ALWAYS been the Braves problem.

I will say it again….Do I think the Braves will sign Man Ram? There is a better chance of the Earth colliding with the Moon, but at least I am TRYING to talk about what has really been holding the Braves back all of these years.

The lack of a truely great hitter.

By Random

January 29, 2009 10:40 PM | Link to this

DOB: “Oh, really?”

Yeah — really.

“Random, do you judge a player on anything other than OBP? I mean, anything whatsoever other than that single stat? Because I have a hard time seeing seeing how he’s been “slipping slightly” since what you call his “peak” years in 2004-06.

DOB, do you reflexively stop reading when you see the term “OBP”? I mean, really, do you? Because I have a hard time seeing seeing how you have addressed the points about his declining SLG, decreasing BBs and increasing groundouts.

“By the way, those weren’t his peak years.”

Never said they were. I said he “peaked” in 2004-2006, meaning only that his subsequent performance was going (slightly) downhill. Sorry for the confusion — I did not mean “peak years” as employed by some BBWAA voters (or sabermetricians) in making HOF evaluations.

“(Oh, wait, his OBP was “only” .393 that season, so that probably overrides all the extra-base hits in your book, where OBP is the end-all stat.)”

Hey, dude — I ain’t Shaun. Me and him have had our own disagreements about OBP. Save your scorn for him, buddy.

“by the way, the other big reason Abreu is so attractive is that he might be had for just a one-year deal, as we said above.”

Was not even addressing that — was only addressing why he wasn’t signed yet. Different issue.

By BravesFanInRockies

January 29, 2009 10:48 PM | Link to this

The lack of a truely great hitter.Ryan W

I’ve always believed when you’re in a hole, stop digging. And I suppoe all those years Braves fans watched Chipper, Tex, McCann, Galarraga and McGriff rake we were just waiting for a “truely” (sic) great hitter.

Sheesh.

By Random

January 29, 2009 10:57 PM | Link to this

Eric from MO: “DOB loved your 8:10 post. Seems like some believe the only stat that means anything is OBP. Nothing else matters.”

So you didn’t read my whole comment either, did you?

How’d you like my response circa 10:35? Did you read it? Did you lo-ove it? Or did you lu-u-uv it?

Suck-up.

*“Random can you read? Did I say 2008? NO!NO!NO!”

By ncgary

January 29, 2009 10:59 PM | Link to this

in a garden of eden it would be that way

Who should decide how much Liberty spends on payroll if not Liberty and/or Braves management? You?

By Eric from MO

January 29, 2009 11:00 PM | Link to this

GoldenGlove002well just because the Braves no longer have TBS doesn’t mean that they aren’t still something of a large market team. By no means are they like Los Angeles or New York in terms of the amount of potential fans concentrated into one area, but Braves fans exist all over the country still from the times of TBS.

The Braves are not in the top ten in merchandise sales either. They are 19th in population. I dont know how else you can try to claim they are a major market team.

By Eric from MO

January 29, 2009 11:03 PM | Link to this

Random again can you read? Did I comment on you? Did I single your name out? Did I say anything about you that would make you feel you need to comment on me? That was a comment to DOB, not you. Learn to shut the F*CK UP!

By NY Braves Fan

January 29, 2009 11:05 PM | Link to this

if Abreu is more attractive because you can get him on a one year contract - why is Nady less attractive because he would be a free agent at the end of the year?

By f.n. hale

January 29, 2009 11:05 PM | Link to this

“Do I think the Braves will sign Man Ram? There is a better chance of the Earth colliding with the Moon” Ryan

or maybe this

By Eric from MO

January 29, 2009 11:05 PM | Link to this

By the way you didnt have a comment at 10:35. At least not this post. I dont give shiit about past posts.

By dobearsbare

January 29, 2009 11:08 PM | Link to this

OK, I didn’t read every word of every post to this point, so it’s quite possible I missed it … still I’m surprised there’s been no discussion of Garret Anderson as a possible addition. I’d say Abreu is the better overall player, but Anderson might be a better fit. Not quite the run producer Abreu is, little lower obp, but still a very serviceable player.

By efuzz

January 29, 2009 11:11 PM | Link to this

DOB - the Cuban place in Midtown, Las Palmeras is the real deal. It is near the park on 5th. If you are on Pachtree you have to take 5th and then kind of zig zag a little. It’s in an old gas station. Also, I was down in Broward over Christmas. Didn’t make Le Tub, but I got to Flickerlight for some pizza. Man, Hollywood has changed a lot in the past few years.

MiamiBrave - I always had good luck at the Las Vegas restaurant in Hollywood. It’s on 441 just north of Hollywood Blvd.

By shawn

January 29, 2009 11:12 PM | Link to this

Interesting Braves story…

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news?slug=ys-klimapolamalu012909&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

By Bravestillidie

January 29, 2009 11:16 PM | Link to this

DOB

To answer your question and/or the denizens’ questions about the Havana sandwich shop, they have relocated to what was formerly a long john silver’s restaurant in Canton. Right down the road from my girlfriend’s house. I would imagine most people who ate their in Atl might not make it out there now, but that’s where they are. There was a piece about it on 11 alive news. THey moved due to the fire, but also due to repeated robbery. Apparently the people who ran it lived in canton, and their message on the news was something to the effect of “If we drove to Atl for so long to feed the people there, perhaps now they will repay us by driving out here sometimes to eat it.” Although I don’t think they are going to miss the business though, because after about two weeks of being open they have been getting some serious business. I would guess mostly through word of mouth.

It is on Marietta Hwy next to a brand new Racetrac, not too far from Cherokee High School. If anyone here reads this and knows the area, go eat there. It’s pretty dern good.

BTID

By JimD

January 29, 2009 11:17 PM | Link to this

dobearsbare

[Garrett Anderson]still a very serviceable player.

I think that is precisely why he hasn’t been mentioned. They already have serviceable in B Jones, J Anderson, G Blanco, M Diaz. If they go get a bat, it will be one that can add significant power to the lineup - a cleanup hitter type.

By ronniev

January 29, 2009 11:19 PM | Link to this

Re: Market size; Atlanta is the no. 8 television market in the U.S., virtually tied with Boston and ahead of Washington, D.C.

By Eric from MO

January 29, 2009 11:19 PM | Link to this

N.Y. Braves Fan-the reason is because Nady will costs prospects. For Abreu we would not be commited long term to him and we would not have to give up prospects.

By proeye

January 29, 2009 11:19 PM | Link to this

Let’s see… It’s okay to sign Abreu for one year but not Nady? Can anyone explain this to me?

By AdirondackDave

January 29, 2009 11:22 PM | Link to this

NY Braves Fan — Abreu is more attractive than Nady because Abreu is a free agent and will not cost the Braves or any other team several players or prospects.

By JimD

January 29, 2009 11:23 PM | Link to this

NY Braves Fan

if Abreu is more attractive because you can get him on a one year contract - why is Nady less attractive because he would be a free agent at the end of the year?

It’s a matter of cost. Nady would cost prospects, Abreu would cost cash. The Braves have to determine which is more valuable to them, and it seems that the prospect cost for Nady is more expensive than the financial cost for Abreu.

By Johnny B

January 29, 2009 11:29 PM | Link to this

DOB - What are you’re thoughts on Garrett Anderson?

I realize he’s not a huge power guy but his numbers across the board are very consistant. I did see where he was ranked as the 5th best defensive LF overall.

IMO, If the price is right, on a one or two year deal, he would be a nice fit. He is a lefty and his splits show he hits both left and right handed pitching equally well.

By NY Braves Fan

January 29, 2009 11:33 PM | Link to this

Eric from MO

i understand that he would cost prospects but he also plays much better defense than Abreu - i also understand that they would not want to get stuck with multiple years with Abeu and that is what makes it Plus but if you think about it why not just give up a couple of Prospects that are going to be blocked anyway for the far better defensive outfielder for the year.

By Rico Bologna

January 29, 2009 11:34 PM | Link to this

DOB

~ Little Havana was the BEST cuban in town- no doubt. Saw Andruw in there twice…

~ Fuzzy’s was the jam, too. They re-opened down the street as Zuffy’s.

~ Rusty Nail is great as well

~ Just started Butch Cassidy & Sundance Kid

~ Really thinks our starting rotation is going to be pretty f’n solid. We should have one of the best bullpen’s in the major’s- barring injuries.

~ Can’t figure out why Josh Anderson is not our lead off hitter and starting CF

~ Think the Bravos should bring back Ned Yost

~ Am secretly wondering why the Braves spring training facility is referred to as Dark Star?

By DHD

January 29, 2009 11:39 PM | Link to this

You don’t mind paying for a one year rental for Abreu. You DO NOT want to give up a couple of minor leaguers for a Nady one year rental. Understand??

By the real OLD GOLD

January 29, 2009 11:41 PM | Link to this

They had one, and his name was Willie Harris. Homegrown, fast, and a clutch hitter. Frank Wren is an idiot.

By ncgary

January 29, 2009 11:43 PM | Link to this

the thing about manny is if hes happy and producing, attendence is going from 2.5 to record levels of around 4 million, he will sell millions in jerseys, and think of the hotdog promotions you could run around him

manny doesnt guarantee a world series championship , but he gives fans a legitimate chance at one

By FadeAway

January 29, 2009 11:43 PM | Link to this

Let’s see… It’s okay to sign Abreu for one year but not Nady? Can anyone explain this to me? proeye

whats so hard to figure out eye? You give up prospects for just one year of Nady and you don’t give up prospects for Abreu. Come on dude, how hard was that to figure out?

By gvblack

January 29, 2009 11:43 PM | Link to this

DOB

What about Rick Ankeil?

By N Nine (eta66)

January 29, 2009 11:46 PM | Link to this

Can we please use some of the insurance portion of Hudson’s 2009 contract? We need just a bit more to sign all 3!(Glavine,Ohman, OF)

Right now its Glavine and Ohman.. and thats all the cash!!! Can we call Hank S. and borrow some cash?

By Ryan W.

January 29, 2009 11:46 PM | Link to this

I’m so tired of trying to defend my opinion….

I think signing Man Ram, while improbable, would give the Braves a chance to win the WS.

Dunn, Abreu, Swisher, or Nady WILL NOT do anything, but K a lot and help the Braves finish 3rd in the NL East, again.

I’m about the Braves winning the WS and what would be the best option to make that possible. The way I look at it there is only one player left available that can do that.

If you can’t build a team that can win the WS then blow that team up and build one that can.

If you don’t like my suggestion that the Braves should sign Man Ram, thats fine, I’ll stop talking about it.

Instead I’ll just talk about the need to rebuild. That is the 2nd best option for the Braves to win a WS.

By David O'Brien

January 29, 2009 11:50 PM | Link to this

After the latest Barry Bonds developments today, I got to thinking how remarkable it is that baseball’s all-time hits leader (Pete Rose), its all-time home run leader (Barry Bonds) and the player (Mark McGwire) who broke what was the most-famous single-season record in sports, all are probably never going to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Not to mention Roger Clemens, who was regarded by many as the greatest pitcher in several decades.

Wow. Just think about that.

By David O'Brien

January 29, 2009 11:52 PM | Link to this

FadeAway: It’s real simple. Abreu is a free agent. Nady is not. You have to trade young talent to get Nady for one year, then he’s gone.

By Johnny B

January 29, 2009 11:53 PM | Link to this

Garret Anderson

In 14 major league seasons has a .296 AVE., 19 HR, 35 doubles, 92 RBI, .327 OBP + .469 Slugging = .796 OBPS, and still rated the #5 defensive LF in the game…

Thats slightly better than servicable IMO!

And a heck of alot better than anyone we had in the ENTIRE outfield last year!

By chrisklob

January 29, 2009 11:55 PM | Link to this

Oh no! Not a Willie Harris fan! Dude, he had about eight good weeks for ATL in 07, the rest of the time he’s been below average.

By BA

January 29, 2009 11:58 PM | Link to this

Rico, about Anderson- he just strikes out too much, and he has yet to establish that he could hit left-handed pitching. But I like the Diaz/Anderson platoon idea, but who leads off the rest of the time?

This Ryan W.- insufferable. The Braves ARE a mid market team. We HAD great hitters during almost every season of your 18 years- pitching prevails in the playoffs. You could make a more convincing case that some of those thin bullpens are more to blame than a lack of a “truly great hitter”.

And as far as “wasting” $40 million dollars, that’s a bit dramatic. Lowe is a .500 pitcher? He’s twenty games OVER .500. Does he have 107 career losses? Sure- and the Big Three have a collective 577 career losses.

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2009 12:00 AM | Link to this

They had one, and his name was Willie Harris. Homegrown, fast, and a clutch hitter.The real OLD GOLD

Willie Harris hit .251 with a .417 slugging percentage and 43 RBI last season in 367 at-bats. That included .213 (16-for-75) with runners in scoring position and .195 (15-for-77) in the late innings of close games.

In 2007 with the Braves, Harris hit .270 with two homers, 32 RBI and a .392 slugging percentage in 344 at-bats, including .220 (11-for-50) in the late innings of close games.

For his entire career, Harris has a .248 batting average, .324 OBP and .343 slugging percentage with 20 homers in 1,610 at-bats.

He has a .251 career average with runners in scoring position, and a .187 average (47-for-251) with 70 strikeouts and 12 RBI in the late innings of close games.

Clutch hitter?

By Random

January 30, 2009 12:01 AM | Link to this

Eric from MO: “again can you read? Did I comment on you? Did I single your name out? Did I say anything about you that would make you feel you need to comment on me? That was a comment to DOB, not you. Learn to shut the FCK UP!”*

Dude, don’t you go all self-righteous and disingenuous on me.

You praised DOB for trashing a comment of mine — so yeah, you commented on me.

And you perpetuated DOB’s bull-headed critique of his myopic misreading of what I actually said — so yeah, you said something about me that made me feel that I needed to comment on you. Stupid question, don’t you think?

EfM: “That was a comment to DOB, not you.”

Yeah, but it was a comment about me and (DOB’s misinterpretation of) my comments on Abreu.

Like I said, don’t be disingenuous.

And chill.

EfM: “By the way you didnt have a comment at 10:35. At least not this post. I dont give shiit about past posts.”

I said circa (“around”) 10:35. It was actually posted at 10:40 tonight. Check it out, why don’t you.

Btw, how’re MO & BO?

;->

By UF Brave

January 30, 2009 12:02 AM | Link to this

DOB,

I don’t understand how we have so little left in the budget.

We Lost: Mike Hampton - 15.98M John Smoltz - 14M Mark Teixeira - 12.5M Tim Hudson - 14.5M (won’t we collect some insurance money?) 2008 Team Payroll - 102.42M

Did Lowe/Vasquez/Kawakami really cost that much?

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2009 12:03 AM | Link to this

Bravestillidie: That’s pretty wild, that Havana Sandwich has moved to Canton. Enjoy, man. You got a great, cheap restaurant. Love that place.

By Ryan W.

January 30, 2009 12:05 AM | Link to this

Man Ram is a fantasy, I know that.

Reality for me is this…..REBUILD NOW!!!

Not later, SOONER.

Make everyone based on the 2008 roster tradeable except Jurrgens, McCann, Escobar, and Chipper.

Obviously we gotta keep Lowe and Kawakami, makes the rebuilding process harder, but who is gonna take them?

Hopefully the line up for 2010 will look something like this…..

Hitting

C McCann 1B Kotchmann, hopefully Freeman 2B unknown, maybe Travis Jones, who knows SS Escobar 3B Chipper RF Heyward CF Shafer LF Hernandez, Diaz if he has improved

Pitching

Lowe Vasquez Jurrgens Hanson Kawakami maybe Rohrbough

I don’t know about all of you, but that inspires hope. The current lineup inspires my dinner all over the floor

Maybe Wren can trade well and improve that lineup, but I would rather see the Braves focus on building a contender from their farm over Wren’s trading ability.

For the love of God lets hope the Braves DON’T sign Dunn or Abreu. Lets hope they don’t trade for Nady or Swisher. Lets hope Heyward or Shafer have a killer Spring Training, so Cox can give them ML experience this year, so 2010 can be the year that we can truely believe.

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2009 12:07 AM | Link to this

efuzz, Hollywood has changed quite a bit, especially on the boardwalk north of Hollwyood Blvd. and all around Young Circle. But not quite as radical as the changes on the strip in Fort Lauderdale, which is now high-end, million-dollar condos in high-rises where there used to be low-slung, $39-a-night dive motels that were seedy but charming. Can’t believe I used to rent an apartment for $600 only a half-block from the beach in Fort Lauderdale in the early/mid-’90s.

By Robards

January 30, 2009 12:08 AM | Link to this

Abreu has been very good in recent years, but I wonder how much that had to do with the Yankees batting order. If I recall, Abreu often hit in front of A-Rod. Would he perform nearly as well in a Braves batting order that, based on recent history, could be without Chipper for a quarter of the season? Perhaps, but I’m not sure. That said, he might be worth it since the price has fallen.

By uga-brave

January 30, 2009 12:09 AM | Link to this

DOB,

trivia question, you said you loved the plimsouls live during valley girl.

we both know they sang, million miles away, but what was the other song they sang?

great song by the way.

By shawn

January 30, 2009 12:10 AM | Link to this

Not remarkable DOB- just sad. I grew up loving Pete Rose. He and Larry Bird always showed how hard work could make up for what really was average skills. They gave us ordinary guys hope that if we played hard we could play too. Just sad …

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2009 12:13 AM | Link to this

uga-brave, that’s easy, man: “Everywhere at Once.”

By Random

January 30, 2009 12:14 AM | Link to this

NY Braves Fan: “if Abreu is more attractive because you can get him on a one year contract - why is Nady less attractive because he would be a free agent at the end of the year?”

Things that make you go “Hmmmmmmm?” Good point.

Now that I think about it, it may have been DOB’s backhanded way of admitting that I was right about the ongoing deterioration in Abreu’s performance, and agreeing with Steve from OH that Abreu may have just one more adequately decent year remaining in his career.

Hmmmmmmm.

(It’s much more likely, though, that JimD (et al) is right, not me.)

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2009 12:15 AM | Link to this

here ya go, uga-brave:

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

By Rico Bologna

January 30, 2009 12:17 AM | Link to this

dang, did not know Havana opened in Canton… That is great news. I’ll eat there this weekend..

By Ryan W.

January 30, 2009 12:19 AM | Link to this

This Ryan W.- insufferable. The Braves ARE a mid market team. We HAD great hitters during almost every season of your 18 years- pitching prevails in the playoffs BA

Thanks for the compliment, I guess.

You say we had “great” hitters. Other than Chipper how many award winning, potential HOF hitters have the Braves had come playoff time? McGriff? The Big Cat? Sheffield? Thats a joke!

We invested 60 million for 4 years on a pitcher who has been 15-10 on avg. for the last 7 years. Now that is insufferable.

Fact is Wren should have saved the 15 per and rebuilt instead because the team surrounding Lowe is worse than the Dodger team Lowe played for last year, minus Man Ram.

By uga-brave

January 30, 2009 12:20 AM | Link to this

loved havana, plus there was a honey baked ham store on the flank.

love honey baked ham sandwhiches.

SCOOTS, great game tonight for your tigers.

i always wondered if felton or purnell would be the better coach, they were both hired in the same year from mid majors. the answer is obvious now.

no reason why georgia cant compete in b’ball.

gotta find the right guy. too much talent in the state to have both the flagship sachools with ZERO wins in the conference.

hewitt should also be ashamed.

do you realize during felton’s tenure there were almost zero player’s drafted.

called it last night after the florida game, even posted it.

felton had lost whatever team he had.

damon had to do it.

By chris r.

January 30, 2009 12:21 AM | Link to this

Ryan W.

I totally understand your passion for Man Ram. The numbers Chipper and Mac would have would be ridiculous. This the best clutch RH’d hitter in baseball after Pujols. Put him and Chipper back to back and we’d the most clutch 3 & 4 hitters in baseball. Ask the Cubs about him. He made David Ortiz a superstar, Big Papi. Remember, Ortiz was released by the Twins. BoSox pick him up, put him in front of Manny and POW…2 WS in 4 years since he has been there . You couldnt get Ortiz out and you didnt want to face Manny. And that means Manny has 1 more WS than our beloved Braves during their run at the top. Clubhouse Cancer? I didn’t hear about Manny being a cancer in LA or Cle. He was in Boston for 7 years, gave them 2 WS titles. And if I am not mistaken, they put him on waivers one season. Maybe two but definitely one season. “Boston management was equally to blame for the Manny situation. They jerked him around last year in his contract year. And all of this he quit on the team stuff seems hollow. The dude hit in 22 of the 24 games he played in before his trade. He was the hottest hitter on the squad. Doesn’t sound like he quit on the team. And in LA, he hit near .400 and hit in 24 of his 36 ABs in the playoffs.”That was an excerpt from the article I read.

I would totally agree he makes ok teams good and good teams great. He was waaaaay more clutch than Tex, plain and simple. I think people here liked Tex because he was a SH corner infielder with power, who played college there, and would’ve been seen as a face of the franchise replacement for Chipper when he is done. He was good but his tenure didn’ t help the Braves get any further than they were without him. People here are in love with Nady. He was a former Met who just hit well against the Braves. I have watched him enough up here in NYC, to tell you guys…STAY AWAY FROM NADY. He is not the hitter he appears to be. I kid you not.

By Mitchie-san

January 30, 2009 12:24 AM | Link to this

DOB What type of salary is Wiggington looking for? I have always liked him and he’s solid. No, I am not suggesting he is the OFer we are looking for, I just think a guy who can play alomost anywhere with a career .285 average isnt a bad guy to look at. I know he doesnt fit into our exact needs, but he can play 2nd or LF.

If they were thinking of moving KJ to left to sign Hudson or Furcal, why arent they looking in to this?

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2009 12:29 AM | Link to this

Anybody else wondering why ESPN is censoring the “bag” part of the word “scumbag” every time they play the Simeon Rice quote about Jon Gruden?

I don’t think I’ve ever heard the word scumbag censored on TV, and certainly not in a direct quote on a news story. President Clinton called a reporter a “scumbag” once.

Actually, it seems more like a word they throw into a movie dialogue in place of a more offensive, actual cuss word when they’re sanitizing an R-rated movie for TV.

By uga-brave

January 30, 2009 12:41 AM | Link to this

DOB,

geat sountrack that was, modern english is probably still getting royalties.

litlle known fact that nick cage was a relative of francis ford coppola.

loved that movie.

speaking of movies, i think we got a read on a lot of our fellow posters.

movies are subjective, but there is a lot to be said when one of our fellow denizens lists distubia, or armagedeon, or bagger vance in their top ten.

as far as sports movies, no love for the original bad new bears.

when i was a kid i always thought kelly leak was the coolest kid ever.

too bad jackie earl haley never grew a inch after that movie.

though his role in breaking away was pretty darn good.

evertime i hear indiana, indiana i always think about that movie.

By N Nine (eta65)

January 30, 2009 12:42 AM | Link to this

Even Ajc blog doesn’t xxxout the word scumbag.

“Oh, and just FYI, Abreu is old but has 47 steals in the past two seasons”

Had no clue, I’m sold on Abreu

Yes willie harris had 6 or 8 great weeks in ATL. Sounds like this year with NATS, just look at his overall #’s. Moving on…..

By uga-brave

January 30, 2009 12:55 AM | Link to this

time to somewhat applaud liberty media for spending the money.

i have always been critical, but the at least they did not use the economy as a excuse.

our payroll will be in the upper third, that is all i guess you can ask for.

like the lowe signing, think vasquez will be more then servicable.

the kawakami thing will not be known until at least may.

still think there will be that moment when cox walks out to the mound, when all the infield is gathered around, and cox asks heap what do you think?

heap will say, “skip i cant understand a word he says, but hoss heard him say the donger need food.”

cox walks back to the dugout, puts in a huge chaw of copenhagen, and mumbles to roger who in the heck is the donger?

By BigPapaT18

January 30, 2009 1:01 AM | Link to this

Ryan W

You and “Man Ram” should get a room. Sheesh!!!

By Coach (Skip and Pete will be missed)

January 30, 2009 1:01 AM | Link to this

Ryan W., just stop.

The blog herd won’t listen to common sense. In actuality, Derek Lowe has averaged 13.6 wins and 12 losses over the last five years. Don’t try to tell the blog that Lowe is anything other than A-C-E.

The real reason that Derek Lowe signed with us is because Frank Wren was the only GM who offered him four years guaranteed. Not to mention the OVER PAID part of the equation.

I will say it again. Compared to the other 29 MLB teams our offense was 15th in RBI, 23rd in HR’s and 27th in stolen bases.

That is P-U-T-R-I-D and David O’Brien has said so himself. NOTHING, not one GOD DAMNED thing has been done to improve this problem as of yet. I’m sorry for being so blunt. But it is what it is.

By Rico Bologna

January 30, 2009 1:04 AM | Link to this

Downwind @ PDK airport = good burgers and eye candy on a nice spring/ fall day

By Rico Bologna

January 30, 2009 1:07 AM | Link to this

dude this is driving me crazy, what gives w/ Dark Star & spring training? sorry to be a pest…

By LoyalBraves20

January 30, 2009 1:18 AM | Link to this

We can all hope the Braves are respectable this year, but if all prospecting hold true I am more excited for 2010. Try this on for size people…..

2010 Opening Day

1. 2B - Kelly Johnson
2. SS - Yunel Escobar
3. 3B - Chipper Jones
4. C - Brian McCann
5. RF - Jason Heyward
6. 1B - Casey Kotchman/Freddie Freeman
7. LF - Jeff Francouer
8. CF - Jordan Shaefer

C. David Ross UT. Martin Prado UT. Omar Infante 1B. Casey Kotchman/Freddie Freeman OF. Brandon Jones/Gregor Blanco/Gorkys Hernandez

Ace - Derek Lowe 2nd - Tim Hudson 3rd - Jair Jurrgens 4th - Kenshin Kawakami 5th - Tommy Hanson

RP - Pete Moylan RP - James Paar RP - Jorge Campillo RP - Jo Jo Reyes RP - Cole Rohrbough/Jeff Locke CP - Mike Gonzalez

Man, that looks VERY promising! 2008 TB Rays incarnent one can only hope.

Opinions?

By N8

January 30, 2009 1:28 AM | Link to this

DOB

As per your 11:50 about the guys not getting into the HOF…

Kinda makes you appreciate past heros a bit more, eh?

On a side note… COME ON! You’re not even gonna acknowledge smiling over my “Popeye” remark earlier. I realize it’s not worth it if you have to beg for it, but that was funny.

In reality, I didn’t see the colon initially after Popeye’s name, so I actually thought you WERE raving about a dreadful movie.

Either way, I enjoyed it.

By The Goche

January 30, 2009 1:33 AM | Link to this

I cannot believe that anyone who watched last season thinks it’s a really great idea to have Blanco AND Anderson starting in the outfield until Schafer is ready.

THEY HAD 27 HR TOTAL in the outfield last year. Our team leader in HR had what like 23?

We need power and the only place we have a chance to add it is in the outfield (which is generally a place you should be getting power anyway).

And it’s not like Blanco and Anderson are All-Stars who just don’t happen to have power. They are 4th outfielders, role players on any team with a good outfield. Between the two of them could they fill a single slot for a season on a team for that has an otherwise strong offense? Yes. Especially if they are playing CF.

I think they could both be strong contributing role players on an outstanding team (though not at the same time because they fill the same role).

But can they fill two positions, including a corner outfield spot, on a team that already lacks power and really expect that team to compete strongly? No.

Look, I think our pitching will be good this year top to bottom. But I also don’t think it’s going to be lights out which means, we are going to have to score runs.

You who advocate using Blanco and Anderson are assuming that both of these guys can match and even exceed the numbers they have put up in relatively small sample sizes so far. I.e. no sophomore slump, no difficulty stretching 300 AB into 500 AB, no new scouting reports making life at the plate miserable. And this is all assuming that they were anything special at the plate anyway, which they were not. Neither one of them put up numbers last year that you want out of a starting corner outfielder.

Or you are assuming that at least one of them will do that and that Schafer will come up to the majors and immediately be a solid offensive contributor. Look, I love the kid, I think he’ll be great but: 1. Dude got killed by lefties last year and 2. You cannot make plans for your team that include assuming a guy who has never played about AA ball will contribute ANYTHING offensively.

If Schafer comes up, the most you can plan on (not hope for but plan on) is a strong defensive outfielder who may progress offensively into an acceptable offensive contributor (possibly on a part-time matchup type basis).

So even if Frenchy tunes it up a bit and Diaz stays healthy and puts up 2007 numbers platooning, our outfield at the very best could put us in a position to maybe hang in til the end and sneak into the playoffs.

But to actually be a strong contender who can beat other strong teams and make our own way into the playoffs, we would need ALL of the young IF to show surprising progress. Chipper would need to play like 140 or more games and the pitching staff would have to be a top 5 in baseball.

If the past few seasons have taught us anything, it’s that you plan for everything going wrong and that you don’t even let yourself believe everything will go right.

If you think you are going to compete, then you have to build a team that can compete even when a couple relatively important things go wrong. As it is, our outfield is barely even passable if everything goes right.

Can we compete without adding an outfielder? Yes. But unless we are playing for a 90 win NL East title and a first round playoff exit, then this team really isn’t built to compete for anything that matters.

If we have spent all we have so far on this team, it is stupid not to add whatever we can in the outfield and give ourselves a chance to really compete. Otherwise we may as well trade away all of our new guys and put 50 mill in the bank for later, because with the team as it is, only in your wildest dreams can you hope that we will be among even the top 5 teams in baseball.

By ObiWanKobe

January 30, 2009 1:38 AM | Link to this

DOB & Other Audiophiles, A recommendation by me. Pulp and Circumstance (A blog where I found the best description) is currently addicted to the beauty of Juliette Commagere, who manages to create these amazing looped tracks with delicious synth that sort of creep into your brain and make it melt.Commagere, who you may know for her work with the band Hello Stranger, worked on her forthcoming release with help from famed musician Ry Cooder and his son Joachim; if you know nothing of the Cooders, for shame—he is one of America’s greatest guitarists, plays a knock-out slide guitar, has worked with Captain Beefheart, The Rolling Stones (as a sessions player on slide and mandolin for Sticky Fingers and Let it Bleed), Van Morrison, oh, and his little bit as a member of The Rising Sons, with P&C favorite Taj Mahal.But enough of Mr. Ry Cooder, genius that he is. Commagere is slated to release her debut full-length record this month, called Queens Die Proudly—October 28, to be exact. And its filled with brilliant guitars (duh) and this intriguing blend of disco and new wave, and the stringed instrumentation is absolutely epic feeling at moments. Her vocals are absolutely addicting, filled with simple melody with that backdrop of high synth. Golf claps.Juliette is currently on tour to support the new record, and she too is coming our way. She will hit T.T. The Bears Place in Cambridge on November 12, and of course, her lives gigs will be helped by Ry Cooder’s son, Joachim.

By ô¿ô

January 30, 2009 1:42 AM | Link to this

LoyalBraves20

and who did the braves trade Vazquez for? - i do not see any new names anywhere except the prospects = and dont expect Heyward or Freeman to be ready for the start of 2010 - maybe Heyward will be Called up sometime in 2010 but i doubt it for Freeman.

By LoyalBraves20+

January 30, 2009 1:52 AM | Link to this

The Goche, I agree completely. This team, at this point, is not good enough to even win the NL East let alone a WS.

If Schaefer is supposed to be our BIG future star, behind Heyman, put him out there and see what he is made of.

At this point if he is good enough to be in Spring Training he is good enough to “at the very least” platoon with Diaz. It isn’t as if the Braves are really playing for much this year.

I say sign nobody to play LF and lets see what the young guys can do. Better than having to guess for 2010.

By No Return

January 30, 2009 1:58 AM | Link to this

The Braves can sign everybody. It’s only money. More importantly, it’s not our money. I have in-laws who are constantly making surmises about what I can spend. They usually believe I can spend more than I can(or wish to) but like I said, it’s not their money. I’ve found that I usually enjoy spending money when I make decisions based upon my immediate family’s vested interest. I’ve spent quite a bit of money on relatives(loan to be an EMT, loan to repair a car, loan for a little niece’s pre-paid tuition). I’ve NEVER even had any of the principal repaid, let alone a return on investment. I’m kind of like the Yankees the last 8 years and basically the Braves the last 12 years. Although I have FINALLY learned. Maybe my spending is a metaphor for that of about 20 teams.

By LoyalBraves20+

January 30, 2009 2:00 AM | Link to this

Oh man, bonus…I forgot about Vasquez

Lowe, Hudson, Jurrgens, Vasquez, Kawakami/Hanson in 2010 is even better.

Tyler Flowers was the big guy traded for Vasquez. Nobody on my prospective team was traded for him.

Also from all that I have read there is a real possibility that Freddie Freeman will be ready for the bigs by 2010. At what capacity, I’m not sure and that is why I have him platooning with Kotchman.

But if you were to take out Paar, Rohrbough, or Locke and replace any of them with Hanson and have Kawakami as the 5th starter you would have a REALLY good staff, top to bottom.

By LoyalBraves20+

January 30, 2009 2:09 AM | Link to this

Freddie Freeman, Jason Heyward, and Jordan Shaefer will all be non-roster invitees this Spring, if they impress it is very possible we could see all three of them in a Braves uniform by 2010.

As a matter of fact most sites including the Braves home site project all three of them starting or at the least playing in some capacity for the Braves in the year 2010.

I say go all out and this spring play them as much as possible to give them as much experience as they can get. That way by 2010 we could have a really exciting team. At least I’m excited

By Coach (Skip and Pete will be missed)

January 30, 2009 2:52 AM | Link to this

Good post Goche. I’m guilty of giving Frank Wren hell but in reality I knew he had an impossible job to do.

The Braves do have a few million left to spend but let’s not forget about the Braves 2009 1st round pick (7th this year). This will be the highest selection the Braves have had in eighteen years. It is gonna be expensive and Atlanta will be stashing a few bucks away for whomever is drafted.

Among the non-roster invitees, Jordan Schafer is the only one with any realistic chance of making the team. Tommy Hanson is gonna get stiffed and it’s just not right. I have seen him pitch and he’s everything the hype has promised.

I’m curious about Anthony Lerew and not sure that Josh Anderson has the right mentality to be an everyday lead off hitter. And the 800 pound gorilla nobody want’s to acknowledge? The brewing soap opera surrounding Yunel Escobar and Bobby Cox.

I keep dreaming of Ryan Ludwick in LF but I know that there are way too many roadblocks between the Cardinals and Braves.

By FadeAway

January 30, 2009 2:54 AM | Link to this

FadeAway: It’s real simple. Abreu is a free agent. Nady is not. You have to trade young talent to get Nady for one year, then he’s gone DOB

I think you misread that. I was the one saying that they did not want to give up prospects for a one year rental . In response to proeye I believe it was.

By FadeAway

January 30, 2009 3:07 AM | Link to this

Willie Harris hit .251 with a .417 slugging percentage and 43 RBI last season in 367 at-bats. That included .213 (16-for-75) with runners in scoring position and .195 (15-for-77) in the late innings of close games DOB

You’re right and just think how bad that would have been if not for being able to hit against the Braves. He was .327/.462/.577 with 14 rs and 12 rbi . If he had played for the Braves he would have hit about .230 for the year.

By Cameron in NC

January 30, 2009 3:37 AM | Link to this

For the record. I know th Braves wont sign Manny. And im ok with Abreu, Dunn, or Nady. But I think that Manny is the player that would put the Braves over the top. And for the people on this blog posting tha they want the Braves to sign Manny. It wont happen because as far as we know, the Braves do not have the money. But I see where you all are coming from because he is probably the best pure hitter in baseball today, and he could deff. put the Braves over the top. Im with the percent that WISHES the Braves could sign him, and I know that 98% ofthe people here would he happy as hell if the raves did sign him. But it wont happen.

Also, I do not think Swisher is the key to the Braves LF spot. I think Abreu or Dunn is the 2 better options because they are free agents and do not cost prospects.

By jason

January 30, 2009 3:39 AM | Link to this

a good article titled “the braves will compete in 2009” at:

nofiltersports.com

By kirkinga

January 30, 2009 4:40 AM | Link to this

And the 800 pound gorilla nobody want’s to acknowledge? The brewing soap opera surrounding Yunel Escobar and Bobby Cox.

Coach, I think you’re great, but this is just pure fiction. There is no looming soap opera. Yunel is going to be the starting SS, he’ll get paid accordingly for his short tenure as he would if he wasn’t included in a potential trade. In short, nothing happened, there’s no reason for Yunel to be angry at anything.

Of course if he reads this blog as saw how many fans were willing to trade him away for alot less than Jake Peavy, then he might be wondering about what kind of fans the Braves have.

Yunel is going to have a very good, if not dynamite year. If anything he’ll be smarter about his emotions this season. I think too many see that fire and just think he’s a thug.That passion means he’s competitive and that means he wants to win.

I’m very excited about Escobar, he’s a reason to buy a ticket. He’ll be fine despite what people on this blog say about him.

By Gil In Mechanicsville

January 30, 2009 4:43 AM | Link to this

The Braves have the money to do what they choose to do, they just poor mouth all the time to suppress what they have to pay. They have become so good at it that most of the blog denizens have even adopted the mantra of “well, we can’t afford him”…

Wake up folks, there is a reason no one is ever able to pin down the exact figure of the Braves payroll, they don’t want anyone to really know what they spend. They are not a publicly traded company and they are not bound to tell anyone.

Doesn’t anyone remember when Chipper volunteered to restructure his salary so the Braves could sign Hudson? The Braves front office went spastic because they were trying to keep Hudson’s agent from jacking up the asking price and felt Chipper publicly stating he would give up some cash hurt the Braves position.

If the Braves want to sign Glavine and Ohman and still pay $10 million for an outfielder they will. If they don’t want to sign them, they will use payroll as an excuse….

By kirkinga

January 30, 2009 5:01 AM | Link to this

Great point Gil, many here have bought into the “we can’t afford…” company line. That is why we’re always looking for some player on the cheap and then get mad when players don’t feel the same way.

I’m glad Liberty has been tighter with the payroll, I think they know that even after signing Lowe, the payroll is going to drop drastically after next season. With all the young talent coming up and with the young vets maturing, The Braves payroll is going to fall unless they sign more free agents.

Liberty is smart to put the money in now because it knows it’s about to have a young and cheap team in the next couple of years and they’ll make alot of money.

By Jeff

January 30, 2009 6:12 AM | Link to this

how about diaz and anderson in left and schafer in center. homeruns are one thing, but how about guys that can hit when we’re down one run on the road this year.

By ppaddy123

January 30, 2009 6:36 AM | Link to this

Random

I don’t know why you have such a bug up your a$$, and I really don’t care. I just wonder what makes you an “authority” on “all things baseball”??? Just about everyone that posts here, or just reads to check up on the latest “hot stove” rumors, is entitled to their opinions. You seem to have appointed yourself as a quasi judge to support or shoot down our opinions.

Even DOB called you on it yesterday. You have your opinions and that’s fine. I read most of what you post and sometimes I agree, sometimes I disagree. That’s what makes the world go round. It might even be that you don’t mean to sound as sarcastic as you seem. I feel sorry for you if that’s how you like to be perceived.

By Richie

January 30, 2009 6:47 AM | Link to this

Why are bloggers on here saying the Braves are a mid market team? The Braves have had payrolls over and/or near the $100 million dollar plateau the last few seasons by seasons end. They are in the top 10 payrolls almost every year. I don’t think that makes them mid market. The Braves brass just don’t like to have a large portion of their payroll tied into one players salary.

Would signing Manny make sense, purely in terms of baseball? In short, yes. He is the most attractive remaining free agent available, for what he provides and for what the Braves are looking for in terms of a middle of the lineup, power hitting OF, who preferably plays LF.

But that will not happen because Boras won’t come down off that asking price for him> He’d be signed already if he weren’t asking for a 4yr deal, at 20 - 25 million per. But I know the remaining options aren’t going to help the Braves compete either. So what do you do?

By richbrave

January 30, 2009 6:57 AM | Link to this

ABREAU on a one year deal. Keep waitin’ FRANK. The price keeps coming down.

By MARK

January 30, 2009 6:58 AM | Link to this

Sign Ohman , Glavine because you can never have enough quality pitching….remember last year…none of those guys morton reyes etc show ed they are ready for anything except take a pounding…..we can wait on a outfielder….its about pitching

By Coach (Skip and Pete will be missed)

January 30, 2009 7:02 AM | Link to this

Kirkinga, Um, yea right.

I watched last season. I saw Yunel getting beaned repeatedly. I watched as Bobby Cox did nothing to protect his player. I watched as Yunel show boated and Cox fumed. And then we read for six weeks here in the blogs as Yunel was all but gone to San Diego for Jake Peavy.

I have nothing against Yunel Escobar, but I can tell you for DAMN sure that Bobby Cox wanted him gone already. Not only that, but many people in the baseball world were publicly questioning why the Braves would attempt to trade such a dynamic player, not to mention the fact that he’s the best athlete on the team.

Bobby Cox runs a tight ship and he doesn’t cotton to players who rock the boat. No one player is bigger than the team and I can tell you just from observation that Escobar has alienated many of his teammates.

By richbrave

January 30, 2009 7:04 AM | Link to this

Richie:

Sit on it and spin, I guess. The BRAVES have been in that position for awhile.

GIL:

You still out there. Want to go see the GWINNETT BRAVES when they come to NORFOLK to play the TIDES? I might be willing to make that jaunt one or twice this season, or DANVILLE possibly. Hit me back if you get this.

By richbrave

January 30, 2009 7:15 AM | Link to this

RICO BOLOGNA:

From yours of 11:34 p.m. last night. Regarding ANDRUW. Dude, that was the same meal. He never left.

By Lew

January 30, 2009 7:51 AM | Link to this

chrisr and RyanW-Y’all are clueless when it comes to Manny. I live in New England and hear everything that happens with the Red Sox in infinite detail (unless you’ve lived here you’ll never have a clue about coverage of a sports team can really be like-it’s a level of insanity you’ll never see in Atlanta-maybe only in NY and that’s limited to NY, NOT a six state area).

Yes, Manny can hit. If he couldn’t, no one could stand having him around. Last season the Dude absolutely refused to play on several occasions. REFUSED TO PLAY. All this because he wasn’t happy making his $25 million salary-he wanted more, even though his future would have been assured in Free Agency.

He p!$$ed off everyone so badly that they literally ran him out of town. He was about to be suspended for refusal to play when they just GAVE him to the Dodgers- Paid the rest of his salary and dumped him in the middle of a pennant drive (he likely would have given the Sox the muscle to make the Series had they kept him.). Do you understand the concept of giving away millions of dollars and forsaking a potential series appearance just to be rid of the guy? That’s exactly what Boston did.

With Manny Ramirez you have a player who takes the point of view that there’s him and there’s everyone else. He can hit, but he decides if he wants to play, whether or not he feels like playing and when it might be that he plays, shows up for practice, takes part in practice or if something else happens to be on his mind at any given time-usually something that has no bearing or relevance on or to anyone but Manny. Do you seriously think that the Braves (or most other teams) would actually put up with this? Would your boss? Even if you could hit?

If you seriously think he would help us that much, then you also have to wonder why he has no suitors this post season. Yes, I’ve heard the line that Boras clients ALWAYS wait until the last moment to sign, but what about Tex? What about all Boras’ other clients? How come most of them have signed and Manny is still in limbo? Part of it may be the exhorbitant price tag he’s attached to himself, but I’d say that most of the reason he’s still hanging is that no one wants that cancer associated with their club-other than lots of really clueless fans who positively delight in spending someone else’s money..

Besides-Tex (who may be every bit as good a hitter) didn’t take us to the promised land while making about half of what Manny asks. Why, all of a sudden do you think this guy will be the missing piece and the difference maker?

By joe fan

January 30, 2009 7:55 AM | Link to this

Speaking of censoring….I saw a story on msnbc.com the other day that censored the word “moron”. What is that all about?

By 35YrBravesFan

January 30, 2009 7:55 AM | Link to this

Pitchin camp starts today and spring is HERE!!!! Give us a good one on camp DOB.

Sign Ohman, give Glav a chance and sign Abreu for one year til the youngster can come up.

GO BRAVES!!! (But we’ll miss you, Pete and Skip…)

By albert

January 30, 2009 8:26 AM | Link to this

Sentimentality has no place in a general manager’s decision making process. Thats why we will not see Smoltz, Andruw or Glavine in a Braves uniform this year. Cold but thats the way it is.

By Gil In Mechanicsville

January 30, 2009 8:34 AM | Link to this

Hey Richbrave, I’m game. I have thought about maybe catching a Potomac game or two also. Actually closer than Danville.

By 22oz

January 30, 2009 8:35 AM | Link to this

Two movies that are unwatchable on regular tv: 1. Grumpier Old Men-they actually substitute “yutz” for “putz”.

1. Smokey and the Bandit. I don’t need to comment on this one for anyone who’s tried to watch it on regular tv. Horrible.

By Chris R.

January 30, 2009 8:41 AM | Link to this

Lew

I live in NYC, so we here all the same Manny stuff as you do down here. I am not clueless at all when it comes to Manny. I’ve heard about him since he signed with Boston back before the 2001 season. I also know that he was put on waivers and when it was leaked the Yankees were going to pick him up, they backed off.

A majority of the reason he isn’t signed is because of his exhuberant price tag. Nobody is going to pay that kind of asking price for a hitter. There are still quite a few Boras clients out there because it is price tag vs economy(Varitek & O.Perez still out there).

By Rich

January 30, 2009 8:44 AM | Link to this

How can you say Dunn has good plate discipline when he has struck out one third of his at bats. The Braves have enough un-disciplined hitters (Franceour) and a poor hitting coach (Pendleton). Why make the problem worse? Dunn would be a huge mistake

By 67cards

January 30, 2009 8:51 AM | Link to this

The answer to the Braves outfield punch problem currently resides in St. Louis. His name is Rick Ankiel. The Cardinals have a glut of outfielders and would trade Ankiel in the right package. Adam Kennedy would have to be included with Kelly Johnson moving to the Cards along with a young starting pitching prospect. Tommy Hanson looks pretty good. So how about it Braves fans, would you trade Johnson and Hanson to have Ankiel in your outfield and use Kennedy at 2B for one yr.?

By Efrim

January 30, 2009 8:53 AM | Link to this

It’s going to be quite difficult for the Braves to contend with the Mets, Phillies and Marlins with the current group of hitters that they have. Infield is great, but there are just too many questions in the outfield. If they can’t land one of Nady, Swisher, Dunn or Abreu, than I think it would be nice for them to go out and get a platoon mate for Matt Diaz. In fact, it might actually make some sense for them to go get TWO outfielders. Maybe Griffey Jr. or Garrett Anderson for LF, AND Jim Edmonds for CF. Not going to scare anyone, Griffey Jr. and Edmonds have had trouble staying healthy, but they would help. Certainly upgrades over Brandon Jones and Blanco/Anderson. In this outfield market they couldn’t ask for too much money, right? Then maybe the Braves can sign Ohman and Glavine along with the two outfielders. Just trying to think how the Braves can contend without acquiring a big bat like the four guys mentioned. Long shot, indeed.

By Lew

January 30, 2009 8:58 AM | Link to this

chrisr-You may THINK you hear it all in NY, but unless you have all three of our network stations and NESN and the Boston newspapers you have no clue. It’s literally 24 hours 7 days a week up here. Pardon me if I doubt you get all the Red Sox coverage in NY.

Yes, his salary demands are absurd and have something to do with why he’s not signed, but that certainly is NOT all the reason. Face it-he isn’t coming to Atlanta. That attitude and that price tag just aren’t worthwhile.

As for waivers-Dude, EVERY team puts damn near EVERY player on waivers and pulls them back if they don’t like who claims them. If you seriously think that tells you anything about the Manny Ramirez situation, then you’re basically clueless about how waivers work, as well as what kind of guy Manny is.

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2009 8:59 AM | Link to this

FadeAway, sorry about that. Gets confusing sometimes, all the references to other comments. So that was for you proeye. Pretty obvious why one-year stint is different circumstances for the two players.

By Lew

January 30, 2009 8:59 AM | Link to this

chrisr-BTW Dude, I think you meant exorbitant, NOT exuberant.

By Efrim

January 30, 2009 9:02 AM | Link to this

67cards

“The answer to the Braves outfield punch problem currently resides in St. Louis. His name is Rick Ankiel. The Cardinals have a glut of outfielders and would trade Ankiel in the right package. Adam Kennedy would have to be included with Kelly Johnson moving to the Cards along with a young starting pitching prospect. Tommy Hanson looks pretty good. So how about it Braves fans, would you trade Johnson and Hanson to have Ankiel in your outfield and use Kennedy at 2B for one yr.?”

Way too early in the morning to be getting wrecked.

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2009 9:02 AM | Link to this

uga-brave: Nicolas Cage is the nephew of Francis Ford Coppola, and his actual name was Nicolas Coppola before he changed it to Cage to avoid appearance of nepotism. Seriously.

OK, headed to pitching camp. Let you know if anything interesting happens.

By Lew

January 30, 2009 9:03 AM | Link to this

67 Cards-I seriously hope that post was a joke or a put on. If you were serious, you are seriously warped if you think that deal is vaguely equitable. Sounds like one of the suggestions we see here all the time asking for us to trade Blaine Boyer and JoJo Reyes for Jake Peavy. Mindless.

By dawgfan1911

January 30, 2009 9:11 AM | Link to this

Kill The Glavine Talk!!!!!!! I dont ever want to see this guy in a braves uniform again!!!!! He is DONE!

By Thrillhouse44

January 30, 2009 9:14 AM | Link to this

67Cards, Johnson and Hanson for one year of Ankiel and Kennedy? Really? No way. Wren wouldn’t even throw Hanson in for Peavy - definitely not going to do it for an outfielder.

By Novice Ned

January 30, 2009 9:18 AM | Link to this

Is Andruw’s defense below average relative to other outfielders or is it not up to the standards of Andruw Jones? My guess is that if he were wearing those goofy glasses with the big nose and mustache and went out and fielded balls, that he would appear to be a slightly above average defensive outfielder. That’s far below his personal standard but still respectable relative to his peers. Of course, a slightly above average defensive outfielder who can’t hit sounds very much like Ryan Langerhans. And no one is asking to bring him back.

By jaglawyer

January 30, 2009 9:25 AM | Link to this

I just spewed coffee all over my laptop reading 67cards’ post about Ankiel.

By Savannah Guy

January 30, 2009 9:34 AM | Link to this

Steve C: from 1/29-3:37 PM – “I am following you on what the Braves have spent in new additions for this year. What I wonder is this, what was last year’s opening day payroll? Now I know that then you have folks who have raises in their contracts, along with raises for the arb eligible guys, but does that really only leave 7 mil left? And that is only to keep the payroll the same, when they said it would go up.” –

I’ve had the same questions. We’ve heard Wren quoted about how we’ve saved big dollars due to departing players and we’ve heard that the Braves would spend more this year but now we are about where our budget needs to be. Perhaps I’ve missed a report or Wren statement about that and have finally heard it so much I’ve fallen for blog misinformation…

Far be it from me to be able to crunch all the numbers even if they were available, and they’re not. I’m not inclined to want to play accountant, but the numbers thrown around here and the comments from Wren just don’t seem to add up. Anyway, I’m curious to know how we dumped so much in salary from 08 and now we’ve supposedly almost reached the salary limit for 09.

Further, if the kind of small salary and incentives that Glavine would need to stay with the team tips the budget scales and eliminates our chances for signing a big bat in left, then it’s going to be a long summer of rebuilding and small ball anyway… not one on par with at least two teams in our division.

Has anyone here done the math from 08 to 09?Inquiring minds wanna know.

By Dadgum

January 30, 2009 9:35 AM | Link to this

Right now Tom Glavine is not on the Braves radar. He may be invited to spring training as a courtesy to give the Braves an extended look at him. Most likely that is what Wren was talking to Glavine about at breakfast the other day.

Currently the Braves have Morton, Campillo, and Hanson gunning for that #5 starter slot. Maybe more. Glavine would fall way behind that group currently. Nevertheless he is probably worth a shot as a fallback if injuries to others happen during ST. That is assuming Glavine gives the Braves some comfort level that he can still pitch effectively.

If everything goes smoothly for the Braves at Dark Star I just can’t see Wren extending 1-2 mil for Glavine to sit the bench and even more so I can’t see Glavine willing to sit the bench for a spot start. Betting odds are he will retire during the Dark Star stint.

As for Andruw, just how big an ego do you have to have to not want to accept a minor league contract to prove to a team you want to play for that you still “got it”? Oh yeah, and when you already have 21 mil of another team’s money in your back pocket (albeit over a few years payout). Ooops, forgot Boras was his agent. Hey wait didn’t Andruw negotiate his prior deal with Atlanta? Thought so. Isn’t it also his ultimate decision anyway? I would say that Andruw’s bargaining chips are pretty miniscule, not exactly strong leverage material.

Rock on….often wrong, never in doubt.

By TheManMike

January 30, 2009 9:35 AM | Link to this

Lew and Chrisr - No one cares about your cities or their media coverage on these blogs. If you have forgotten, this is the AJC blog, for Atlanta Journal Constitution….Go blather about NY and Boston on another blog.

Kirkinga - I agree 100%. I dont think the Braves fans yet realize the true potential of a young plyer like Yunel. He is really something special….I think Thomas Dimitroff would consider him a “diamond in the ruff…” I love his tenacity, he showed more heart at times than the entire team combined. Since when are players not allowed to show some spirit or become enthusiastic about the game? I cant wait for Yunel to prove all the Neysayers wrong….

GO YUNNY!

GO BRAVOS!

BOO BOSTON AND NY SPORTS MEDIA COVERAGE!!

By Brad

January 30, 2009 9:40 AM | Link to this

Why would they want Glavine? He has no particular loyalty to the Braves as he has shown. He was a big part of the players strike several years ago. Besides, he is washed up as a pitcher!

By TheDunderChief

January 30, 2009 9:40 AM | Link to this

DOB-

Scumbag refers to a used condom, which would be a pretty disgusting and graphic reference to use on television. But the word has become so integrated into our daily language, nobody pictures a slimy latex balloon full of semen when they hear the word. ESPN or FCC is getting way too picky on this one.

Now that I think about it, scumbags could also refer to one’s testicles. Although, I don’t think that was the original intention.

By Steve

January 30, 2009 9:42 AM | Link to this

DOB, Very nice post…I’m warming up to trying to land Abreu…maybe its my impatience as well…I would like to see our team locked in before Spring Training…I don’t like this waiting game that’s going on…but in the end it could bear fruit for the Braves…but also many other teams as well…There are still 90 free agents left looking for work…it’s truly unbelievable…And the quality of some players, if signed, could change the whole dynamic of some teams…Abreu, Sheets, Manny, O-Dog, Dunn…wow…Has anyone ever heard of these types of players STILL available this late in the offseason???

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

January 30, 2009 9:43 AM | Link to this

Brent A. “last year, I saw him in my neighborhood the day before the anniversary of his record-breaking homer.”

That’s cool! But how sad that his mother died on the anniversary of #715! Kinda takes away the sweetness of the day.

The Goche “Our team leader in HR had what like 23?”

Yup. 23 homers…he also led the team in RBI (87) and doubles (42)…oh, and game-winning RBI (10).

By 67cards

January 30, 2009 9:47 AM | Link to this

Everyone loves their own players beyond reason. Johnson is not Ryne Sandberg or Joe Morgan.

Hanson has great MINOR LEAGUE numbers. So did Anthony Reyes and hundreds of others. He is not even on the Braves depth charts for this year. If he is the answer, why did the Braves spend all their $$ on starting pitching free agents? Who is he going to bump in your rotation.

If you can’t use an asset, move it for something you can.

You have to give something to get something.

Ankeil hit 25 HRs with 413 RBIs in only 413 ABs. Which of the Braves outfielders put up those numbers last year? In addition, he is and electric player on the upside of his career and affordable.

Kennedy would platoon well with Prado at 2nd. He hit .283 vs. RH last year and had the 4th best defensive ratings in MLB at 2nd base. He only has a year left on his contract.

By Knuckle Sandwich

January 30, 2009 9:49 AM | Link to this

Hey DOB, Thanks for the blog. I was reading an article about Abreu on ESPN.com. The article was focusing on a metric called “Ultimate Zone Rating” which measures how many runs you save / cost your team with your defense. Abreu’s UZR was -25 last year, the worst in the American League. The only major league right fielder that was worse than him last year was Brad Hawpe, who came in at -37.2. Anyway, just thought this was relevant now that Abreu seems to be a candidate for left field. Do you put much stock into any of these newer statistics, or are they just for fantasy nerds, like me?

By rubbertoe

January 30, 2009 9:54 AM | Link to this

67 cards, Hope that was a joke about ankiel for real. THere is nooo way in the hell that I would even trade hanson for ankiel strait up, much less with kelly johnson to boot. I dont necessarily think ankiel is totally proven yet. Pretty good stats but no way hanson goes for him in any way shape or form. Kelly Johnson and some single a prospects maybe but no way hanson is involved, he’ll be the ace of this staff for years to come. If Wren wouldnt let him go for jake peavy theres no way he’s gonna let him go for ankiel.

By mbatl

January 30, 2009 9:57 AM | Link to this

SG, two sources (COT’s, and USAToday) report the ‘08 opening day payroll at $102,365,683. Of course, that doesn’t account for the Braves internal accounting methods, like listing Hampton at only around $8 mil… and probably other variables. So the Braves would say that the number was lower than that. (and I don’t know how it accounts for money received from other teams, such as $5 mil for Kotsay’s salary; or sent to other teams, such as $X we paid on Renteria).

In other words, it’s hard to know.

As for where we stand now, seems to me that THIS is a pretty good summary. Not vouching for its accuracy, but seems pretty reasonable to me. Puts us at $92.4 mil without any insurance money on Hudson.

By Jeff R

January 30, 2009 9:59 AM | Link to this

I think it’s nutty to trade for Nady or Swisher - unless you can get either for a song. Heyward, Schafer and Hernandez are in the pipeline (one or two years away, at the most). And there’s Cody Johnson; if he can cut down on his strikeouts, he’s a possibility too.

What’s the point in surrendering solid prospects for either Yankee outfielder? I vote to sign Abreu to a one year deal, if Wren can’t live with the current options. I’d bet two of the four aforementioned OF prospects are ready by 2010.

Acquiring Brian Roberts would be the smarter play. He gives the Braves a lead off hitter and a better defensive 2nd baseman than Johnson, who could swing to the outfield and/or be trade bait down the line.

Problem is, Roberts is a big fan favorite in Baltimore. The ownership is pretty clueless, but they might have enough sense to want to retain the team’s most popular player. But if they’re willing to give him up, it may come at a steep price.

By Hardball19

January 30, 2009 10:00 AM | Link to this

67cards has a great point. Who would not want to trade for someone who drove in 413 runs last year year!?

By allan

January 30, 2009 10:02 AM | Link to this

Abreu is NOT an option. If you check the stats, of when he played here before, you should find that he wasted our money, then ran home to the Phillies, (I think before the season ended?), and told them everything he could about the Braves internal workings.
Not that it’s made much difference, but why should we pay this prick to come here, after rating us out?

Also let me bring up for discussion, Bobby Cox.
Why do I continue to hear how great a manager b cox is, yet I don’t see it on the field. I sure didn’t see it in their first WS, with his player selection and juggling.
And I haven’t seen it since. The only reason he’s done anything is because of the three HOF pitchers, that won, despite him. The first thing the braves should do, before next season, is to find a new manager, instead of; pitchers and outfielders.

Long time fan, who would like to see a better effort to play & win

By BlawgDawg

January 30, 2009 10:03 AM | Link to this

67Cards Way too early in the morning to be on the sauce my man. You may want to seek help with that problem of yours.

Tommy Hanson is a Top 10 rated prospect in ALL of baseball, and you think that he would be included in a deal for a one-year rental Rick Ankiel? Absolutely ridiculous. Maybe you haven’t been around the ol’ Blog or know enough about the Braves to know that everyone expects that Hanson will be in the Braves starting rotation at some point this year, possibly even on opening day.

The Braves spent all that money on starting pitching because the rotation was a shambles, and needed more than one rookie plugged into it to make it respectable. You don’t count on rookies to build a starting rotation if you expect to win anytime soon, you bring them along surrounded by veterans like the Braves plan on doing with Hanson.

By Steve McP

January 30, 2009 10:11 AM | Link to this

Just took a few minutes on Cot’s contracts site and came up with these figures for the Braves thus far, no Ohman, no Glavine, if a budget of $7 million remains as has been bandied about, then it looks like we are sitting at a $100 Million budget for 09, without taking Hudson’s insurance into account.

Lowe $15 Million Hudson $13 M Vasquez $11.5 M Chipper $11 M Kawakami $7 M Soriano $6.1 M Gonzo $3.45 M Infante $1.85 M Kotchman $2.5 M (wants $3.25M) Johnson $2.35M (wants $3.3M) Frenchy $2.8M (wants $3.95M) Ross $1.4M Diaz $1.23M McCann $3.5M Norton $1.1M

25 players on MLB minimum $400K = $10 M

Total $93.78 ($96.63 if taking player requests on arbitration)

By pfunkatl2

January 30, 2009 10:14 AM | Link to this

DOB

Had some business to attend to last nite and missed your question. Las Palmeras is on 5th street between Argonne and Charles Allen off Ponce. MUCH better than Papis, tho Papi’s has some decent fast-food-type cuban dishes. Actually it is not far from Papi’s, but being in a residential neighborhood it is hard to find. Give it a try.

ALSO thrilled to hear about Havana re-opening. Never even BEEN to Canton, but I will be soon!Just so you KNOW, DOB I am originally from KC, went to KU as well(tho I graduated from UMKC) and lived in Miami for many years before moving to ATL. Small world!

By Random

January 30, 2009 10:14 AM | Link to this

ppaddy123: “I just wonder what makes you an “authority” on “all things baseball”???”

Nothing — I don’t consider myself an “authority” on “anything baseball”. I do know how to read and look up some stats on the internet. Other than that, I’m just another guy with an opinion, who’ll back it up when questioned, and back down and admit it when wrong.

pp3: ” … everyone that posts here … is entitled to their opinions.”

Well, sure — of course we are. We’re also entitled to back up our opinions when challenged. Or not. Or not.

pp3: “You seem to have appointed yourself as a quasi judge to support or shoot down our opinions.”

We all are judges here — this is a public forum of baseball opinions and information. We each can agree with whom we choose and disagree with whom we choose. The better of us actually explain why, supporting their opinions with whatever facts are available and applicable, documenting what they represent to be fact, and arguing its applicability.

Tough siht for you if you cannot back up your own opinions, or cannot handle perceived criticism.

pp3: “Even DOB called you on it yesterday.”

Yeah, well — DOB was wrong. (He’s been wrong before, you know.)

He apparently did not read my entire comment, and apparently misunderstood what he did read. See my reply to him at 10:45 PM.

(Also, you should check out the comment of mine that *DOB was responding to* to get the whole picture.)

pp3: “It might even be that you don’t mean to sound as sarcastic as you seem.”

Let me get this straight — you read DOB’s 8:10 PM comment, and then you call me “sarcastic”.

Dude, that’s twisted.

8->

pp3: “I don’t know why … , and I really don’t care.”

*Whew! Thank goodness — I thought for a minute there that I was in real trouble.

*(sarcasm)

PS: you’re not gonna call my mom, are you?

By Graham

January 30, 2009 10:17 AM | Link to this

“If you check the stats, of when he played here before, you should find that he wasted our money, then ran home to the Phillies, (I think before the season ended?), and told them everything he could about the Braves internal workings.” Allan

Bobby Abreu has NEVER played for the Braves. He came up with the Astros, spent 9 years with the Phillies, and then 2 years with the Yankees, before becoming a free agent.

By Lew

January 30, 2009 10:18 AM | Link to this

The ManMIke-Are you feeling better now? Sure hope so. First off, I don’t live in Boston, I live in Vermont. Second of all, as mostly anyone here can tell you, I’m a Braves fan-NOT a Red Sox fan-moved here from the South because of a well paying job. I still pay for Extra Innings so I don’t miss any Braves’ games on an annual basis and even flew to Toronto to see them play the Jays last year-the entire series.

However, that doesn’t mean that I’m deaf and blind-I hear what’s on the TV and I read what’s in the paper. I mentioned what I had heard and read simply in response to the multitude who think they know Manny, yet may not know the whole story.

Frankly Dude, If that bothers you, it’s your problem, Not Mine. If you don’t like it, scroll on past or go do something else. I’m certain we can do without your meager insight, anyway.

By Moondog

January 30, 2009 10:27 AM | Link to this

I like the idea of getting Roberts or Swisher (in a fair trade), but first the Braves should try to sign a useful free agent at a bargain price (i.e., Abreu). That way, they don’t have to give up prospects. They have plenty of young outfielders with upside, so a veteran like Abreu would be a good fit for 2009.

By Wilson

January 30, 2009 10:30 AM | Link to this

From reading this blog, it seems like we only have the money to sign two out of the group of Ohman, Glavine, and an OF bat. Am I reading that right, DOB? If that’s the case, who gets left out?

By mike

January 30, 2009 10:30 AM | Link to this

The Braves need to sign Abreu!! Everyone wants Glavine back, but if it comes down between Glavine or Abreu, the choice is simple… Atlanta’s Outfield combined for 27 Homeruns in 08, and Glavine’s ability to maintain health throughout the seaon is too big of a question mark… The idea that Atlanta can get him at 6 million a year is crazy!!

By BlawgDawg

January 30, 2009 10:32 AM | Link to this

Allan I’m confused, when Abreu played here before? He’s never played for the Braves. Think maybe you should check YOUR stats.

By 67cards

January 30, 2009 10:38 AM | Link to this

I take offense at all of the “it’s too early to be hitting the sauce comments”. Its already 9:30 here in snowy StL and time for another ice cold frosty Bud.

I was reading another Braves blog and there was a lot of talk about a trade with St. Louis for an outfielder. It appears as if the preferred choice would be to obtain Ryan Ludwick.

That does not work well for StL. Ludwick is a RH hitter. Our best prospect Colby Rasmus is a LH as is Ankiel and Schumacher. If we trade Ludwick we have an all LH hitting OF.

I hate would hate to see Rick Ankiel go, but if Rasmus is the real deal, 5 tool, top 10 prospect centerfielder he is built up to be, you have to figure he is the CF of our future. That and free agency looming for Ankiel after this year makes him expendable. If he breaks out huge, you would have the upper hand at signing him long term.

I would not trade Ankiel to the Braves unless we get Kelly Johnson and pitching in return. Adam Kennedy would have to also be included in the deal. If we cannot get rotation ready pitching of a #3-#4 guy, then we would have to get a closer candidate with experience at the major league level. If this pitching is not available, then we would have to get a top grade starting pitching prospect.

So you make the deal Braves fans.

Mindless and drunk in StL.

Ps: Excuse my earlier error. Ankiels numbers where 25HR and 71 RBI’s in 413 ABs.

By Savannah Guy

January 30, 2009 10:41 AM | Link to this

Mbatl- thanks for the link. That was helpful and you’re right, the Braves, like all team roster salaries are impossible to know. Management knows the balance of overhead and salaries vs. revenue and tax strategies and we’re obviously in the dark. Add to that, not knowing the franchise owner’s overall strategy and tolerance for investment risk and it’s more than anyone can venture to guess with any accuracy. Which is why I wouldn’t try. And like Paramount or other Hollywood studio films, there is much creativity in sports franchise accounting and reporting.

But for now I’ll go with McCarroll’s $92.4 mil on the books for 09 with $8 mil left. Seems well founded and reasonable.

By Chris R.

January 30, 2009 10:45 AM | Link to this

Lew

I have Sirus Radio. So yes, I do get to hear them. Boras messed up Manny’s negotiations to this point. If he said Manny was looking for at 4/60 mil, he’d have a bunch more suitors than the ones he has. His contract offers could have risen from that point. The reason Tex was signed earlier is because he is 8 years younger than Manny. A team is way more inclined to make a longer term commitment to a player under 30 than someone closer to 40. Manny make not make sense financially for the Braves but in terms of lineup presence and the ripple effect he causes in a lineup, he does. The only other big bat the Braves could get that would be comparable in terms of production and/or Braves description would be Carlos Lee. And I dont see Houston moving him and/or Berkman at all

By Chris R.

January 30, 2009 10:45 AM | Link to this

Lew

I have Sirus Radio. So yes, I do get to hear them. Boras messed up Manny’s negotiations to this point. If he said Manny was looking for at 4/60 mil, he’d have a bunch more suitors than the ones he has. His contract offers could have risen from that point. The reason Tex was signed earlier is because he is 8 years younger than Manny. A team is way more inclined to make a longer term commitment to a player under 30 than someone closer to 40. Manny make not make sense financially for the Braves but in terms of lineup presence and the ripple effect he causes in a lineup, he does. The only other big bat the Braves could get that would be comparable in terms of production and/or Braves description would be Carlos Lee. And I dont see Houston moving him and/or Berkman at all

By PiersonBrave

January 30, 2009 10:45 AM | Link to this

DOB In response to your observation about Bonds, Rose and McGwire. I hope that these guys will serve as a warning to the youth of today that if you cheat the game you will become an example of the badness (thank you Judge Smells SP.) in baseball. To play the game correctly and honorably like my man Chipper will lead you down the trail to respect and if lucky enough the HOF.

By Jared S.

January 30, 2009 10:47 AM | Link to this

Anyone, see this article? Wow! Troy Polamalu. That would’ve been interesting to say the least.

By Lew

January 30, 2009 10:48 AM | Link to this

SG-These figures come from Sports City News Service-first site that popped up when I googled the salaries.

Last season, the Braves were listed at a payroll of $102,365,683. They listed Hampton at a bit over $15 mil and the Braves have said they budgeted him throughout his tenure-whatever.

They lost Smoltz’s salary at $14 mil, Hampton’s at $15, Tex at $12.5 and Glavine at $8mil. This comes to 39.5 mil, or about the $40 mil figure we’ve gone with most of the off season.

We signed Lowe at $15 mil, Vasquez at $11.5 and Kawakami at $8 mil, or $34.5 million. McCann receives an increase of $2.5 mil, Soriano an increase of $4mil-now at a total of $40.5 mil spent so far. This doesn’t count the new catcheror the fact they gave Infante a raise, they’ll give raises for Arbitration-several like Francoeur could be substantial.

I realize their are nuances and any info may not be 100% accurate, but as DOB tells us, no one really knows for sure-too many accounting variables like signing bonuses and whatnot, but seems to me the Braves have spent what they said they would and are still around $100 mil or somewhat more. Not too sure what the complaints are from so many Denizens-they did what they said they would and are still in the upper 1/3 of team salaries. In addition, Wren has said the money is available for an outfielder. Not Manny, but likely someone worthwhile-or not.

By TommyP

January 30, 2009 10:48 AM | Link to this

67Cards: The reason Ludwick is preferred is the same reason you don’t want to get rid of him…he’s righthanded.

Another lefty would give us McCann, Ankiel, Kotchman all in order. If we keep Kelly, he’s another lefty. We need the righty like you claim the Cards do.

However, I’m with DOB in wanting Abreu from the list of potential LF out there. High production, hits lefties well, and shouldn’t cost as much in terms of years or $. (his power, however, does suffer big time vs. lefties, I believe)

Ludwick, Ankiel, Nady, Swisher, Dunn, Abreu? Abreu is an easy choice just ‘cause of that production and small cost.

At any rate 67Cards, I love the discourse from a fan of another team. I hope you continue to post on here as I do the dreaded Mets fan(s) on here.

By Graham

January 30, 2009 10:49 AM | Link to this

67cards

Hanson would not be included in any deal. The Braves are not willing to deal him to anyone.

By Gil In Mechanicsville

January 30, 2009 10:51 AM | Link to this

Face facts, Braves will try to get a guy to sign for as little as possible, the players will try to sign for a much as possible. They will meet somewhere in the middle.

Why do you folks think you can get a really good and productive player for chump change? I have always heard it’s not how much money you make, it’s what direction your salary is headed. Five million a year is a lot of money to me, it’s not a lot of money to somebody who was making 10 million. Put in amounts most of you can understand. If you were making $100,000 last year and your boss comes to you and says, We are going to offer you $50,000 this year and by the way, we expect you to be THE GUY… How would you feel? Would you not start looking around for another job that pays you what you think you are worth.

Baseball players are no different, only they have agents and lawyers just like the owners do now. They have a very good sense of what the market pays and what their value is. They know MLB is charging $120 for jersey with their name on it and they see know how many are sold.

While I would like to see a more level playing field, I don’t think owners should rip off the fans anymore than they rip off the players. The Yankees and the RedSox pay big money because they can afford it. Lord knows, the only reason I would live there is because they do pay big money.

By BlawgDawg

January 30, 2009 10:53 AM | Link to this

67cards well since you would have to get a ready #3 or #4 pitcher or a closer with MLB experience, think the Braves will pass on Ankiel and let you search for someone else to be your sucker.

Unless that closer is Soriano, who is coming off surgery and isn’t guarenteed to be ready opening day. If you want Soriano (and his $6.1 million salary) and Johnson, then maybe that would be doable

By Lew

January 30, 2009 10:53 AM | Link to this

67Cards-And we’re not going to trade KJ for a year’s rental of Ankiel who has no real track record anyway when KJ is under contract for another three years before HE hits Free Agency.

As for Hanson. Dude, you are indeed drunk or delusional if you think we passed on Jake Peavy because we wouldn’t trade Hanson or you don’t realize Hanson is listed as the number four prospect in MLB right now, yet we would trade him for an ex pitcher with a bit of power. He is the first pitcher ever to win MVP for the AFL and is projected to be an Ace-maybe starting later this year-next year for certain.

Dream on in your drunken stupor. That deal won’t happen anymore than we would have gotten Peavy for Reyes and Boyer.

By N8

January 30, 2009 10:54 AM | Link to this

67cards

I wouldn’t trade Kelly Johnson STRAIGHT UP for one year of Rick Ankiel.

Considering, that defense aside, KJ could just be moved to LF and probably put up the same numbers.

So to expect pitching in return as well? Forget it. Which is exactly what Wren has said as well, other wise a deal would probably already be done.

Now, if Ankiel/Boras and the Cardinals are willing to sign an extension with Ankiel at about the same dollar amount that KJ will make in arbitration in the upcoming years, and THEN do the trade… count me in.

What’s that? That ain’t gonna happen? Yup. Like I said. Forget it.

Have you looked at our lineup? The reason Ludwick was talked about so much, is because we too are LH heavy in the lineup.

One year of Rick Ankiel is not worth giving up ANY of our reguar starters. If the Cards are willing to take Jo Jo Reyes and a minor league prospect, THAT would be a good deal for one year of Rick Ankiel.

After all, it IS one year of Rick Ankiel, NOT one year of Albert Pujols, right? We are talkin about Rick Ankiel, right?

Kelly Johnson and Tommy Hanson for Rick Ankiel? Dude, if Hanson is as good as the scouts say he is, I wouldn’t do Kelly Johnson (or insert any other prospect), and Tommy Hanson for PUJOLS.

Here’s an “offer” as ridiculous as yours. How about Kelly Johnson and Jo Jo Reyes for Ankiel and Wainwright?

Didn’t think so. Have another Bud.

By Tron5000

January 30, 2009 10:54 AM | Link to this

This dude has an interesting opinion on the Braves’ chances this season.

The Braves will compete in 2009

By N8

January 30, 2009 10:57 AM | Link to this

Jared S.

That article is very interesting. That being said, nobody really knows how well his baseball career would have turned out. We do know (in hindsight) how well his football career has gone, so as a KC Chiefs fan, the following article bothers me a bit more.

Sigh…..

By Lew

January 30, 2009 11:00 AM | Link to this

chrisr-Dude, I have XM-Wow, are we special or something? You seriously think I’m not aware of what Manny’s situation is or how teams work with Free Agency? What I’m saying is that many more teams are balking at Manny’s behavior than you think. Yes, he’s expensive and getting old-anyone with a clue about how baseball works knows that. But his attitude is also a major factor-whether or not you believe it to be. Because of this (and the price) he would NOT be a good fit for the Braves. That is the bottom line. I was merely explaining why the Sox let him go and ate his salary to see him gone. If you think thaty is not so, then you really are clueless.

By bravo1966

January 30, 2009 11:03 AM | Link to this

67Cards,

The Braves wouldn’t give up Hanson for Jake freaking Peavy, and your suggestion is to give him AND Kelly Johnson up for Ankiel (one year left and a Boras client) and Adam Kennedy (can’t hit a lick)?That is Never going to happen. That would be a lopsided deal WAY in the Cardinals favor. To answer your question, HELL NO!!! I’m fine with signing a FA or going into camp with what we currently have before making an absolutely assine trade like that.

By John Thain

January 30, 2009 11:03 AM | Link to this

That LYING Boston Globe has a story today about how EVEN Red Sox season ticket sales are down—“Slowest in years”—I don’t believe any of it. Baseball will not be affected by potential 15% unemployment rate, Reduction in adversising revenues, significant scaleback of season ticket purchases and dimunition in purchase of corporate suites. These reports are all bogus. Those 100’s of thousands of lost jobs in NYC will have NO impact. It’s business as usual. These free agents are lying about what clubs are offering. It’s still Spend Spend Spend.

By Boiler

January 30, 2009 11:05 AM | Link to this

Get Abreu, put him on FIRST!!!! Platoon Diaz and Anderson in LEFT 2B - Yunel Escabar 2B - Kelly Johnson 3B - Chipper Jones C - Brian McCann LF- Matt Dias(Anderson vs righties) 1B - Bobby Abreu RF - Jeff Francouer CF - Jordan Shaefer

By Random

January 30, 2009 11:08 AM | Link to this

Lew: “Yes, Manny can hit. If he couldn’t, no one could stand having him around. Last season the Dude absolutely refused to play on several occasions. REFUSED TO PLAY. All this because he wasn’t happy making his $25 million salary-he wanted more, even though his future would have been assured in Free Agency… . He p!$$ed off everyone so badly that they literally ran him out of town. He was about to be suspended for refusal to play when they just GAVE him to the Dodgers- Paid the rest of his salary and dumped him in the middle of a pennant drive (he likely would have given the Sox the muscle to make the Series had they kept him.). Do you understand the concept of giving away millions of dollars and forsaking a potential series appearance just to be rid of the guy? That’s exactly what Boston did.”

So, would I be correct to assume that you would have been as strongly against acquiring Babe Ruth in 1920?

By chris

January 30, 2009 11:10 AM | Link to this

Lineup- Schaffer, Escobar, Johnson, Jones, McCann, Swisher, Kotchman, Francour, Pitcher.
Rotation- Lowe, Jurjens, Vazquez, Kawakami, Glavine Bullpen- Gonzalez, Soriono, Moylan, Morton, Carlyle, Ohman

I see a very good team, if it comes together right!!! (Trade for Swisher, Sign Glavine and Ohman, start Schaffer)

By Andy K.

January 30, 2009 11:11 AM | Link to this

DOB: Does the AJC have a photographer there today like last year?

By 912BravesFan

January 30, 2009 11:12 AM | Link to this

Bring Griffey to Atlanta

By 912BravesFan

January 30, 2009 11:13 AM | Link to this

Bring Griffey to Atlanta

By Billy Pilgrim

January 30, 2009 11:13 AM | Link to this

Tron5000 No offense to you, but that was the most worthless piece of dribble I’ve seen in a while.

By Thrillhouse44

January 30, 2009 11:15 AM | Link to this

Man, I like Cardinals’ fans a lot more than the Muts and Philthies fans that come on here. Anyone downing a Bud Heavy moments after sunrise while admitting his mistakes is okay with me.

By BlawgDawg

January 30, 2009 11:15 AM | Link to this

Boiler You would rather have Abreu at 1B than Kotchman? No way would I bench Kotchman (GREAT defensive 1B, potential 20 HR, 30-40 doubles, 80 or so RBI’s) for Abreu (same offensive potential but huge drop-off defensively).

By Savannah Guy

January 30, 2009 11:15 AM | Link to this

Lew, thanks. You have a $10 mil difference from what I saw earlier from a source of mbatl’s, but both seem to be within a reasonable 10% range. That is close enough for me, although If the roster is $92 or $100, it’s that $10 mil difference that’ll be the difference between a big bat in LF or platoon. I’m good either way.

Hey, like you and others have said, we’re in the top third of salaries, so we have no reason to go negative about our season due to budget. If the players perform their best, the manager makes the right moves in games and manages well, Wren makes sensible deals and that Lady Luck who deserted us a few years ago comes back and helps out here and there, we’ll be fine.

By The Goche

January 30, 2009 11:16 AM | Link to this

Just to clarify, I did not at all mean to say in my post that we cannot compete as we are. I think there is no doubt we should be in the mix.

I also did not mean to say we cannot win the NL East. In fact, I said that we can. And obviously once that happens anything can happen.

But I also said that the team as it is really only in the best realistic scenario could win the NL East if the Mets and Phillies have problems and will lose in the first round (as in not believing that Diaz will hit 20-25 HR AND Francoeur will hit 275/340/500 with 30 HR AND Anderson and Blanco will hit over 300 with even a little power and steal like 30 bases AND the pitching will be lights out AND Chipper will play 140-150 AND all of the infield will hit even better this year than last year AND Hanson and Schafer finish as the top 2 in ROY voting. So being realistic as in if most things go well, but we still have some disappointments).

But I, unlike Coach and his comrades, fully believe that this team has a chance to push 90 wins especially if we can find a power hitting outfielder who gets on base even a solid amount (.350 or so) and hits at least 20 HR, in which case we could even see 95 if things go well (which is all anyone can ask).

I think Lowe is a good signing and a bit of a bargain.

Also, important point: Vazquez is more than “serviceable” or whatever people call him. Jason Marquis is serviceable. Vazquez is a good solid pitcher. The difference? ERAs are similar, W-L record (because that is such a great stat, not) are similar. The difference, Vazquez averages over 200 innings per season including 200 in the last 3 seasons and 7 of the last 8. His career LOW was 154 his rookie year. The other major difference, Vazquez averages around 200 Ks per season and a roughly 3.5:1 K:BB ratio compared to Marquis not even 2:1. No person who has an ERA anywhere near 4.50 or lower and goes 200 innings for 200 K can be called “serviceable.”

This is a good solid team that can win a division, but not a team that can go against a really legit good team (whether in the division or the playoffs) and come out ahead without some help.

But I will say that as it is this is probably an 80-85 win team right now with no changes during the season.

By Mike

January 30, 2009 11:17 AM | Link to this

Tron 5000…

Sounds like some people from this blog wrote that.

Negativity much? I agree that Liberty Media owning us sucks, but we still have a payroll at, near, or slightly over $100 mill. Which is more than the Marlins that he props up. And he was also off on some of his statements. We did offer Tex a contract between the 07 and 08 season, and he wanted to go to free agency, or it wasn’t enough. He wanted his big payday. Also, we didn’t lose AJ because he didn’t want to play here, it was the travel distance for his “no-flying” wife. And I think most people wouldnt call Kawakami “washed-up”. That guy that wrote that is a tool, and extremely negative.

By don

January 30, 2009 11:23 AM | Link to this

It is quite possible that the members of the organization who want to pass on Andruw are the same morons who “engineered” the Drew and Teixeira trades. No valedictorians in that group.

All will be a roll of the dice. However, Andy is still a better bet, all factors considered, than Dunn, Abreu,Swisher, or Nady. Shoot, Brad Konmminsk and Harry Hannebrink never reached their potential. Can we bring them back?

By Lew

January 30, 2009 11:24 AM | Link to this

Random-I have no idea. I was not around in 1920 (at least not in this incarnation) and don’t know what the feelings toward Babe Ruth were at the time. One thing is certain-he sure as hell didn’t make a $25 mil per year salary and The Babe was 25 years old at the time-NOT 36. New York is certainly NOT Atlanta, either-then or now. Apples and Kumquats, Dude-or a horse of a different color. Choose your own metaphor, simile, or whatever. Lousy comparison.

By The Goche

January 30, 2009 11:32 AM | Link to this

67 Cards, I don’t know if someone else has shared this with you, but for Ankiel NO ONE would give you a Kelly Johnson AND a ML ready 3-4 starter.

In reality, an ML ready 3-4 starter is probably worth more than Ankiel anyway, at least in this market (esp with said pitcher being under team control for 6 years or so and Ankiel’s approaching free agenthood).

Ludwick, as good as he is, probably wouldn’t even bring an ML ready mid-rotation guy, just because of the injury history.

Ludwick would bring Kelly and a pretty solid prospect or an ML ready fringe #5 type with midrotation potential like Jo-Jo Reyes (i.e. no ML ready guy you are particularly excited about).

Still, Ludwick would bring a pretty solid package. But I think the Cards would want to get more than he will bring because other teams fear the Cards are selling high on a 29 year old injury risk, while the Cards would likely want to get the kind of package you’d get for any player who hit 37 HR in his second full year.

In short, there is too much difference between his peak potential and his value when hedging based on his history. The Cards want a return based on value near his peak potential while other teams are going to be too careful.

Also, I am pretty sure there has been roughly 0 conversation between the teams about such a trade since like December and then it lasted like 1 day.

By 6-4-3

January 30, 2009 11:32 AM | Link to this

If we were to sign Abreu, or Dunn for that matter, to let’s say a one year deal, I know we wouldn’t lose a draft pick. But do we gain compensation a year from now if we lose him to free agency?

By N8

January 30, 2009 11:32 AM | Link to this

Billy Pilgrim

As worthless as it seems on the surface, there’s a harsh does of reality in there. This team could just as easily lose 90+ games, as it could win that many.

I think when all is said and done, this team finishes about 3-4 games over .500 and is “in it” for the duration, but will fall just short.

Division is just too damn deep.

The problem is that Wren (two years in a row), has built a team to compete with the NL East the PREVIOUS year. Fixing holes that WOULD HAVE helped last year.

It’s not to say that he hasn’t done a nice job patching up those holes. He has. It’s just not enough IMO.

Now, in the past few weeks, I’ve stated that IMO, if all the things that went wrong last year (injuries, 1-run losses, etc…), go RIGHT this year, it might be our year.

That being said, that is a LOT of “what if’s”, and both the Phillies and Mets have some interesting “what if’s” as well.

Phillies: What if Bret Myers puts a full year together, to go along with Cole Hamels? What if Ryan Howard puts a full year together? What if Ibanez IS that much more consistent than Pat “the bat” Burrell, and makes their lineup even BETTER?

Mets: What if Johan has a Maddux like year and dominates from start to finish, now that he’s comfortable in NY? What if the combination of Putz and K-Rod gives the Mets 10 more wins than their putrid bullpen blew for them last year?

Granted, those are nothing more than “what if’s” and certainly the Mets and Phillies have plenty of “what if’s” that could go the other way (Jamie Moyer could wake up and realize he’s 83 years old - Carlos Delgado is bound to start tailing off, right?.

But those what if’s are probably more likely to happen (K-Rod, Putz, Myers, Johan being successful), than Francoeur “turning it around”, than Vazquez being ANYTHING but an innings eater, Chipper staying healthy, etc…

As of right now, the way all rosters are today, I’m gonna say the Braves go 84-78 and finish 3rd in the NL East and finish about 3 games back of the wild card.

NL East Winner: NY Mets (that bullpen is SILLY good now, and was their only weakness last year).

Wild Car Winner: Phillies

Go Braves in 2010.

By ncscoots

January 30, 2009 11:33 AM | Link to this

Tron5000, the outlook delivered in that link is no different from that of several bloggers here, just less well-expressed.

The author thinks that the pitching pickups this offseason are crap, that the young players on the squad are crap, that Wren and Cox are crap, etc., etc., etc. Fine. So be it, and he’s welcome to an opinion, regardless of the bodily orifice from which it originates.

I do always wonder, though, if such folks ever actually enjoy the game itself, or are only mollified by winning and winning alone. You get the feeling sometimes that it would be impossible for this type of guy to just enjoy a day in the bleachers.

If that ever happened to me (it won’t), I think I’d be ready to move on to curling or Australian Rules football or something. That kind of fan attitude is a soulless way to think of the best game a kid could ever play.

By Tron5000

January 30, 2009 11:34 AM | Link to this

Pilgrim, I’m not at all offended. I just thought it was an interesting view. Why don’t you comment on the site and let the author know how you feel? I actually thought it was kinda funny.

By Lew

January 30, 2009 11:34 AM | Link to this

SG-The difference could possibly be in how Mike Hampton’s salary is figured. The particular site I used said his salary was almost $16 mil and the difference could be between that and the $8 mil at which the Braves said the budgeted his salary.

By The Goche

January 30, 2009 11:35 AM | Link to this

Boiler

You really believe it will make our team better to take Casey Kotchman out of the lineup .272 with 14 HR in 140 games last year, plus great defense and replace him with Derek Anderson and Matt Diaz, plus put Abreu at first who has I believe NEVER played there.

Any more remarks like that will put you on my do not read list, because that is NUTS.

By richbrave

January 30, 2009 11:35 AM | Link to this

Go read CARROLL ROGER’s article on the return of “DANDY DON” SUTTON. Reporters and Sports Blogmeisters will love this guy. He’s the equivilant of a literary day off. No need for copy. Just string the quotes together.

By The Goche

January 30, 2009 11:37 AM | Link to this

Of course by Derek Anderson, I mean Josh Anderson, neither of whom should be starting at a corner OF spot on an major league team.

By The Goche

January 30, 2009 11:41 AM | Link to this

However, Andy is still a better bet, all factors considered, than Dunn, Abreu,Swisher, or Nady.

Wow…there are some ridiculous statements on the blog today…

It really makes more sense to give even 400K and a roster spot to a guy who hit 3 HR last year than 6 mill to a guy who hit 20 (Abreu).

RIDICULOUS.

Goche out.

By N8

January 30, 2009 11:45 AM | Link to this

Just want to clarify, that in my last post, I wasn’t being negative. Just trying to keep it real.

I would be VERY OK with winning 85 (or so) games, and being “in it” into September. After the past 3 season, who wouldn’t be?

All along, I’ve stated that 2010 is when we’re gonna make a serious run. Maybe not until 2011, when the likes of Heyward, Shafer, Hanson, Medlen, Gorkys, likely have a little bit of mileage on their legs.

All I want is competitive baseball, where it’s not a foregone conclusion that when the score is 2-1, we’re gonna lose, because we’ve lost 234 1-run games in a row.

Vazquez is a fine pick up to eat innings. Not to compete in 2009 (though it may work out that way). But to allow the kids to NOT have to eat up all those innings, and to save the bullpen for the stretch run, if we’re still in it by then.

Contrary to many beliefs, I don’t think that Wren over-paid that much for Lowe. With the way salaries are going, 15 million is fair.

In 2009, he’ll “serve” as the Ace, due to the lack of one on the roster. Call it “guilty by association”. Besides, I like his attitude in embracing such role. He wants the ball. I like that. He wants to be blamed if he fails. I like that.

But every team that gets to the playoffs (think 2010 and 2011), needs more than one good starter. I think Hudson’s option will be exercised next year, JJJ will be in his 3rd year and blossoming, and Hanson should be here to stay.

Meaning that going into 2010, there is a chance that Lowe might be the 3rd (or even 4th) best pitcher in the rotation. Who cares about the money. Hanson, JJJ and Kawakami, will combine for about 35 million dollars (give or take), averaging out to about 7 million each. Not too shabby, IMO.

By 2012 (maybe even 2011), Lowe might be a Mike Hampton type of deal for us. But the dude has ZERO history of injury. By 2012, Hudson more than likely will be gone and if the youngsters step up and take spots in the rotation, that leaves Lowe’s 15 million as the ONLY contract officially on the books (other than JJJ’s arbitration eligible salary) for 2012.

I’m quite certain the rotation’s cost will solve itself by then. Besides, if Lowe is still healthy, 15 million just might be a steal for a 40 year old 5th starter.

Anyhow…

By Dan

January 30, 2009 11:46 AM | Link to this

New ownership is what the Braves need most.

By richbrave

January 30, 2009 11:47 AM | Link to this

GIL:

POTOMAC it is then. Where are they in relation to us, MANASSAS.? I know that’s where the old CANNONS used to be. I have a friend down southside way and we’re cooking up a couple trips to DANVILLE. I’ll be interested to see the #7 pick IF he doesn’t go to GULF COAST straight out.

By Jim

January 30, 2009 11:49 AM | Link to this

Reports on MLB.com have Hinske headed to Pirates. Too bad, the B’s could have afforded him, Glavine and Ohman for

Regarding Abreu, CBS Sports On-Line has the following: “Yesterday Ken Rosenthal wrote that “the Mariners view Bobby Abreu as an ideal fit, major-league sources say, but it is unclear whether they can afford him. Today, Larry Stone elaborates on Seattle’s interest in Abreu.

“Stone says Abreu’s agent Peter Greenberg confirmed ongoing contact with the Mariners regarding Abreu. Abreu is open to playing in Seattle or anywhere else. However, they cannot afford him unless they make room in the payroll by moving salary. Greenberg confirmed that Abreu is now open to a one-year deal. Abreu told Greenberg he’d win the MVP and then go out on the market again.”

Hope FW can head Hinske off at pass and also get Abreu.

By Tron5000

January 30, 2009 11:51 AM | Link to this

To be fair, Mike, the author didn’t say that the Braves lost “AJ because he didn’t want to play here.” He stated that there was nothing that sold him on playing for the Braves. There was a time when your wife’s travel concerns be damned; you wanted to play (and especially pitch) for the Braves. The were the class act in baseball, the winningest organization, and players would bend over backward to join the Braves. That is certainly no longer the case.

By bravesfan

January 30, 2009 11:53 AM | Link to this

Sign ohman back and we will have a great pen. Let’s try to sign Andruw to a minor leauge contract and have blanco and anderson as backups. GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By abreufan

January 30, 2009 11:57 AM | Link to this

sign ohman and get abreu for a good price. andruw is past his prime and would only be a good option if we cant get abreu. abreu has the numbers to help our outfield improve with blancos speed and francoeurs arm the braves outfield would b one to recon with. GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!

By abreufan

January 30, 2009 11:57 AM | Link to this

sign ohman and get abreu for a good price. andruw is past his prime and would only be a good option if we cant get abreu. abreu has the numbers to help our outfield improve with blancos speed and francoeurs arm the braves outfield would b one to recon with. GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!

By dogsbrekky

January 30, 2009 11:58 AM | Link to this

Springsteen

On a controversial note, Skip Bayless, who lives near me in NYC just called “the Boss” the most overrated performer ever on this morning’s ESPN 1st Take….

oops..

By disappointedfan

January 30, 2009 12:01 PM | Link to this

I’am dissapointed that the Braves did not re-sign eight time all star john smoltz. I would have given him all the $$$$$$$$$$$ he wanted to keep him in a Braves uni. I hope the Braves make a deal for Abreu but i think $$$$$ will be an obstacle.

By Andy K.

January 30, 2009 12:06 PM | Link to this

I hope Ted Turner buys the Braves back. Yes, he can be crazy, but it’s a good kinda crazy because he’s sooo enthusiastic. Plus, he has the cash, then, he can just give it to the Front Office, and say Go Get ‘Em!

By GT

January 30, 2009 12:11 PM | Link to this

If the Braves really are $$ constrained at this point, and not able to sign everyone they’d want to, its a sign of how much they overpaid for Lowe and what a waste of resources the Vasquez trade was.

Ohman should be the priority here.

Of all the outfielders speculated about here, a 1yr deal for Abreu would be the best option for the Braves. Surely they don’t have a lot of competition for him from other clubs at the moment, or he wouldn’t still be on the market. Even Burrell has signed for crying out loud.

Glavine - forget him. Why waste any money on adding a body to the roster? We’ll get just as much production from Reyes as you will from Glavine. Dare I say, we’ll get more from Campillo or Morton. The saying may be “you can never have too much pitching”, but you certainly can have too much mediocre pitching, and the Braves are “stacked”.

Andruw - its not worth wasting the extra keystrokes to talk about this washed up loser anymore. Let alone wasting resources to sign the guy. I don’t want him anywhere near the Braves organization.

By rammerjammer

January 30, 2009 12:16 PM | Link to this

Everyone wanting the remaining money spent on pitching? OK, here’s your 2009 outfield.

VS. Lefties - Diaz, LF; Frenchy, CF; B.Jones, RF

VS. Righties - Norton, LF; Anderson, CF; Frenchy, RF.

Everyone ok with that? Just checking.

By SLC

January 30, 2009 12:21 PM | Link to this

Some of you have mentioned Jorge Campillo in the five slot in the rotation. My fear with him is that he could be the second coming of Jorge Sosa. Sosa did great in Atl. in 2005 but laid a hughe one in 2006.

I wouldn’t object to Abreu being in left field and I think you could bat him third with Chipper batting fourth and either Mac or Frenchy trading five and six.

If we make any deals please throw “No-No’ Reyes in the trade.

By Gil In Mechanicsville

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

Richbrave, yes, a pretty easy ride up 95. I am open to Danville too. You get your e-mail fixed yet?

By MGL

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

ChopShop - Not funny, minors frequent these pages.

By Scott Hornibrook

January 30, 2009 12:24 PM | Link to this

What about Garret Anderson instead of Abreu. Anderson still a free agent and very productive !

By Billy Pilgrim

January 30, 2009 12:25 PM | Link to this

Tron5000 - I did. It was funny, but I’ve read enough posts to know that the author likely feels that way. Maybe I’m wrong, but I didn’t think it wasn’t as blatantly satirical as it should have been if it wasn’t meant to be taken somewhat seriously. Maybe I’m wrong and the guy was either baiting folks like me or making fun of the “fire frank wren/the sky is falling” crowd. Thanks for the link though!

By bob

January 30, 2009 12:34 PM | Link to this

No More Trades Please!

We have lost enough prospects the last couple of years.

By mbatl

January 30, 2009 12:35 PM | Link to this

GT, I don’t agree that we overpaid for Lowe… not by much anyway. Indications are the Mets would’ve gone $14 mil for 3 years. So, we might have gone one more year than necessary, but that’s not an issue for this year.

And Vazquez is a great addition, IMO. I think he’ll post good numbers in the NL (he has great stuff), and it’s only a 2-year deal… good move.

To me, the “excess” if you want to call it that, was Kawakami. That’s $7.67 mil for a third new starter, when I understood the goal to be 2 starters. That extra money would make our other objectives - LF, Ohman, Glavine - easily obtainable. A rotation of Lowe, Jurrjens, Vazquez, and then 2 of Campillo, Morton, Reyes, Glavine, Bennett, etc. with Hanson and Hudson hopefully coming along. I’d have been okay with that.

But, I’m NOT complaining about Kawakami. Pitching is crucial, and his addition will help us avoid putting too much stress on the young guys. And I’m confident we’ll fill LF adequately.

For all the talk about our terrible offense (and the power outage was severe, admittedly), we DID finish 6th in the NL in runs scored last year, not 16th. And actually scored at a better rate after Tex was traded.

I think it’s reasonable to expect better offensive performances from all of KJ, Escobar, Kotchman, Diaz and Francouer as they enter their “primes”. Not saying any or all will be huge, but as a group they’re likely to outperform last year.

By ppaddy123

January 30, 2009 12:35 PM | Link to this

Random

Your name wouldn’t be “DICK”, would it?

By Random

January 30, 2009 12:46 PM | Link to this

Clown Car Winner: N8

Go Braves in 2010.

8-)

.

Lew: “I have no idea. I was not around in 1920 (at least not in this incarnation) and don’t know what the feelings toward Babe Ruth were at the time. One thing is certain-he sure as hell didn’t make a $25 mil per year salary and The Babe was 25 years old at the time-NOT 36. New York is certainly NOT Atlanta, either-then or now. Apples and Kumquats, Dude-or a horse of a different color. Choose your own metaphor, simile, or whatever. Lousy comparison.”

Pretty cheeky for you to allege “Lousy comparison” after admitting that you “have no idea [and] don’t know what the feelings toward Babe Ruth were at the time”, don’t you think? (It’s actually a good comparison, except for the age factor you mentioned.)

And I know your ignorance is feigned when you blithely compare 1920 dollars to 2009 dollars without reckoning for inflation.

And the NY v Atlanta contrast is simply a red herring thrown out to avoid the question — please recall that the Red Sox and the Braves shared a hometown at the time.

By Chris R.

January 30, 2009 12:48 PM | Link to this

Lew Manny wanted his option years picked up. His contract was 8 yr/ 160 mil, plus 2 option yrs for 40 million. He wanted the Sox to pick those up but they jerked him around. You would think picking up those options after 2 WS titles in 4 yrs would be a no-brainer. He was very responsible for “Breaking the Curse”. That alone has opened a whole new wave of Red Sox fans, that he is very responsible for. They didn’t so he changed agents to get a big contract since the Sox didnt do that.

In baseball, as long as you are prodcutive you will have a job. Bonds, Belle, Lofton, Sheffield, Manny, Kent- all were cancerous members of their respective clubhouses for all the teams they played for. And they all were in the Majors for over 10+ years. These guys were all produced. Shea Hillenbrand & Chad Curtis were disruptive as well, they don’t have jobs. I am not saying Curtis & Hillenbrand are on the same performance level as those guys I previously named, because I am not. However, if those 2 guys were as highly productive players as those players I named, they’d still be playing.

Back to my Manny point. The reason he is unsigned is not behavior. Not at all. Because if Manny was the same age as A-Rod, he would’ve gotten a bigger deal than A-Rod has now. And that is the truth, you can ask anyone. Way more clutch than A-Rod or Tex, for that matter. Boras messed up his negotiations. He shouldve had Manny at 4/68 mil to start the bidding for his services, and let it escalate to the figure he knew he wanted. You have scared too many teams at that salary.

By CanadianBrave

January 30, 2009 12:49 PM | Link to this

What’s with all this crap about somebody wo is going to be a rental for a year or a couple of months or whatever. Waht do you guys think that some of these prospects are going to eat some majic wheaties or something that will make them hit 30 homeruns after July!!! if these prospects are good, let them play, if not go and get someone who can supply power know. I for one am tired of hearing about all this outfield potential year after year. If the guy is 21 or 22 and can’t hit the ball out of the park in April, its unlikely he’ll be able to in July. Let’s ** or get off the pot. Let the youngsters play if they can and if they can’t get someone who can!!

By dogsbrekky

January 30, 2009 12:53 PM | Link to this

Kamikaze is a gamer, he is going to be MUCH MUCH better than any of the supposed experts predict.

By BravesFanInRockies

January 30, 2009 12:53 PM | Link to this

Garret Anderson —

Maybe, but only if he’s really cheap (as in, less than Abreu or even Edmonds).

He’d be an OK LF in a platoon with Diaz (OPS vs. RH last three years .774, .834, .796 — nothing special, but probably better than Brandon Jones).

If you could get him for $2 mm or $3 mm. then OK.

I’d rather try to sign Edmonds or Abreu for twice that. You’d get more offense from both, and Edmonds can play all three OF positions if needed.

By john

January 30, 2009 12:58 PM | Link to this

One would think that the Braves are yet another casulity of coporate greed. Suck all the good out of the team and put nothing back. Does Time Warner really care if the Braves have a winning season or not????? Me thinks not!!!!

By ô¿ô

January 30, 2009 12:59 PM | Link to this

just watched the 2005 Home-Run Derby on MLBN and seeing Abreu win makes me want him more. just trying to block out his horrible defense.

By CanadianBrave

January 30, 2009 1:00 PM | Link to this

Sorry about the errors. I forgot to edit!

By Original Jon

January 30, 2009 1:01 PM | Link to this

*dogsbrekky Maybe you might want to get his name right.

By BravesFanInRockies

January 30, 2009 1:02 PM | Link to this

CanadianBrave,

That’s one of the most uninformed posts I’ve seen here in a long time.

By BravesFanInRockies

January 30, 2009 1:03 PM | Link to this

john

TimeWarner probably doesn’t care if the Braves win because the company sold the team a few years ago.

By mbatl

January 30, 2009 1:06 PM | Link to this

“Does Time Warner really care if the Braves have a winning season or not????? Me thinks not!!!!”

I’m sure you’re right, since they are no longer involved with the team.

I guess you mean Liberty … and frankly, I could care less if they care. Just give the baseball people a check for $100+ mil in payroll, allow funding of a good scouting system (which we have) and money to sign the best draft picks available (which I think we have) and get out of the way. It’s fine with me.

By Southpaw

January 30, 2009 1:08 PM | Link to this

I like Nady but your argument for Abreu is a good one. Keep the young talent, especially pitching. If Glavine will discount, then okay, but otherwise get the hitters and sign Olman. Looking forward to the new Braves in the next few years. Build it and they will come.

By MGL

January 30, 2009 1:09 PM | Link to this

Keith Herbert at Newsday reports that two members of the House of Representatives are demanding the Mets abandon the $400-million naming-rights deal they have with Citigroup because of the bank’s receipt of federal bailout money. The agreement calls for Citigroup to pay $400 million over 20 years for the naming rights.

Reps. Dennis Kucinich (D-Ohio) and Ted Poe (R-Texas) sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner asking him to “dissolve” the contract with the Mets to name their stadium Citi Field. Kucinich said

“It’s just totally unacceptable that Citigroup should be able to spend $400 million in naming rights when they’re the recipients of a massive federal bailout.”

Mets PR director Jay Horowitz said the Mets “are fully committed to our contract with Citigroup,” and Steve Silverman, a spokesman for Citigroup in Manhattan, called the contract with the Mets a “legally binding agreement” signed two years ago.

Taxpayers have given the embattled bank $350 billion as part of a federal bailout. Two Staten Island councilmen suggested changing the name to Taxpayer Field and also called for the dissolution of the naming deal.

By D. Withers

January 30, 2009 1:10 PM | Link to this

The Braves need a new coach!

By CanadianBrave

January 30, 2009 1:12 PM | Link to this

BravesFanInRockies:

You are entitled to your opinion, but remeber its only an opinion as is mine.

By nolie

January 30, 2009 1:13 PM | Link to this

Damn Lou, you just absolutely do no have a life at all do you? Talk about your O/C kinda guys.

By BlawgDawg

January 30, 2009 1:16 PM | Link to this

rammerjammerwhy would you list Frenchy in CF against lefties? Frenchy will not be placed in CF, he doesn’t have the range to play that position. And I don’t see Norton being part of any platoon in LF. Barring injuries forcing a different circumstance, Norton is going to be the #1 PH every game.

john why would Time Warner care what the Braves do. They don’t own the team, they sold it to Liberty Media Corp. a few years back.

And we all want to see the corporation ownership of the Braves end, but we’re going to have to wait at least a few more years for that. Since the main focus of Liberty buying the Braves was for tax writeoffs or something like that, there is some law or agreement that prevents them from selling the team for a certain number of years. Don’t remember exactly what the length of that sell ban is, maybe someone else remembers the terms.

By dogsbrekky

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

MGL - it is okay mate, us NYC based taxpayers are also funding Yankee and SheetyField stadiums via tax free muni-type bond funding… all so the little mayor can get his people free corporate boxes at both parks….

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2009 1:25 PM | Link to this

Back from pitching camp. Only six guys there on first day, but some significant ones. Namely Hanson, Gonzalez, and Hudson, who has been throwing for few weeks now and could throw off mound this week for first time since TJ surgery. Before anyone gets too excited, no, he’s not ahead of schedule. Everything’s going well, though, and he hopes to be back by late August or September (earlier if possible, but he’s not gonna push it and expects it to take 12 months from surgery before he’s pitching in a game, in a rehab start)….

Gonzo said it feels like he has a new arm after having his first normal offseason in a couple of years. Said he’s not been completely healthy since late in the 2006 season with Pittsburgh, but now his arm feels terrific, like he’s a youngster again. He lost 15 pounds this offseason, appears to be in great all-around shape. Also said he will probably continue the rocking/swaying motion he begun doing last year….

Hanson said he feels no pressure going to camp, that he’d love to make the team, but if he’s at Triple-A that’s fine. Said he’s approaching it the same as ever, just go out and pitch and try to continue the progress he’s made the past couple of years. Cox saw him pitch for first time today, albeit in a indoor-mound session at less than full velocity. He liked what he saw, though, from Hanson as well as Gonzalez, Boyer and O’Flaherty, the other guy he mentioned.

O’Flaherty seems like a nice lad. I told him if he’s not on the team we’ll raise hell, that we need a good Irishman on the squad.

Lerew was also there today. Threw this winter some in Puerto Rico. “We’ll look at him in the spring, like everybody else,” Cox said, when I asked about Lerew.

(For those wondering, I don’t get a sense that Lerew is prominent in the plans. At all.)

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2009 1:27 PM | Link to this

The Braves need a new coach!D. Withers

In what position? Hitting coach? Pitching coach? Bench coach? Be more specific, please.

By nique

January 30, 2009 1:27 PM | Link to this

Signing Abreu might actually allow us to compete without hurting our future. I love the idea.

Only one problem: it makes too much sense to happen for us this offseason.

By BlawgDawg

January 30, 2009 1:28 PM | Link to this

I don’t want to see the Braves move good prospects for Nady (one year rental) or Swisher (Yanks would want a pretty good return for him). Dunn is horrible in the field and strikes out too much. Abreu isn’t good defensively and isn’t exactly the “big bat” the Braves stated they are seeking.

I guess my if the Braves insist on bringing one of these in I would prefer Dunn first. He is terrible in the field and strikes out a lot, but he is the most dangerous long ball threat of the group. Abreu would be my second choice, just because I don’t want to see the Braves trading any more prospects away right now.

I would be ok with going into the season with what we have, and see who comes available over the season if the Braves are in contention after the first couple of months of the season.

LF- Diaz/B. Jones platoon could be productive CF- Shaefer/Anderson/Blanco (whoever can win the job in Spring Training) RF- Franceour (we just have to hope that he can bounce back)

Can’t wait to see Shaefer and Heyward this spring, along with Freeman. I know Heyward and Freeman are most likely a couple years away or more, but I’m still excited to see the guys in the lineup even if it is just ST.

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2009 1:31 PM | Link to this

On a controversial note, Skip Bayless, who lives near me in NYC just called “the Boss” the most overrated performer ever on this morning’s ESPN 1st Take….dogsbrekk

That’s important, what Skip Bayless thinks of Bruce. Very important.

By Hytest

January 30, 2009 1:34 PM | Link to this

Let’s assume what we have for the next couple of years Lowe 4 years Kwazimoto 3 years Hudson next year Vazquez 2 years JJ at least 5 years

Lets assume Hanson is as good as advertised

Next what if all of these pitch well and really don’t need to go on the Dl next year

What are we suppose to do with all of our starting pitchers that we have in line

Jo Jo, Bennett, Parr , Campillo, Morton , Carlye, I know some of these can be a long starter in the bullpen but , the rest have nothing to prove in Richmond. With Locke and the others coming up through the ranks. I think we have a pitcher jam. Iknow I know you can never have enough Pitching but come on

I say package a couple of these for a quality outfielder (Short term) and maybe a lower level catcher. We are real short in the minors at catcher.

What ya think

By rammerjammer

January 30, 2009 1:36 PM | Link to this

BlawgDawg,

Exactly. I don’t want Frenchy in CF or Norton in LF. My point was to illustrate the need for OF improvement - especially against lefties - is far greater than the need for one more bullpen lefty or yet another guy battling for the #5 rotation slot (even if that guy is HOF-bound).

The outfield is a mess. An absolute mess.

Personally, I think Frank got three new starters - not two, as originally planned - because he is going to deal Morton or Reyes in a package to get an outfielder.

By rotty

January 30, 2009 1:38 PM | Link to this

Swisher is not the answer and would be a mistake on Wren’s part should he make this trade.

He is not the lights out power guy we need. He is not a clean up hitter.

He is only a slightly better defensively than Abreu though a fair bit better than Dunn. He has been traded to three different teams in less than three years. That tells you something.

The problem is the Braves need a 40hr/100+ RBI guy in LF and that is not Swisher. Not even Nady.

He will be the goat trade of the off season given his contract (~22mm owed over the next three years assuming you buy out year 4).

Put it this way. If Swisher was a FA today he would still be unsigned and shopping for a 1yr 3mm contract.

How then is he worth 5+mm, 6+mm, 9+mm (plus prospects) over the next three years?

Sign Abreu or Dunn to a 1-2yr deal & they will have a shot at the post season. Trade for Swisher and you will have someone who will come up short more often than not.

He is overrated and very much over paid.

By Original Jon

January 30, 2009 1:47 PM | Link to this

Hytest Seriously?? Kwazimoto??? Are you that much of a arse that you cant even spell another human beings name right? Dude, how old are you? Seriously?

By Canadianbrave

January 30, 2009 1:47 PM | Link to this

I’ve asked this a couple of times. Does any one have an opinion on the Braves acquiring Delmon Young? I heard that the Twins have too many outfielders and he may be available. Looks like he has power potential, .290 10 homers 70 RBIs 26 doubles. I understand he is projected to hit more homers and he’s right handed. He would look okay between Chipper and Brian, he’s a left fielder and he stole 14 bases with the potential to steal more. Just a thought!

By Tron5000

January 30, 2009 1:48 PM | Link to this

DOB, thanks for the update from pitching camp. After all the hoopla surrounding Hanson in the fall league, I’m excited to see what he can do against major leaguers. Hopefully the Braves’ hurlers can stay healthy and Hanson won’t be rushed up to the show. Should be a lot of fun to go see him pitch in Gwinnett.

By Neon Deion

January 30, 2009 1:48 PM | Link to this

Wher McCarver at?

By haley

January 30, 2009 1:50 PM | Link to this

What about KEN GRIFFEY IF THE MONEY IS THAT TIGHT? HE’S GOTTA BE A BETTER OPTION THAN ANDRUW. WISH WE COULD GET A 100 RBI MAN-AND YOUR CHOICE OF ABREAU MAY BE BEST OPTION.

By Hytest

January 30, 2009 1:54 PM | Link to this

Original Jam

Kwazimoto is a joke do you watch an TV.

By TNBravesfan

January 30, 2009 1:54 PM | Link to this

I often read here, but rarely post. However, when I hear that Skip whatever his name is, says Springsteen is overrated, I most publically disagree. I Hate Springsteens politics, but as a singer/songwriter he is brillant. And to see the man live is quite an event to say the least.

By BravesFanInRockies

January 30, 2009 1:55 PM | Link to this

CanadianBrave,

I think Young could be a really nice fit, too. The Twins are really looking for a 3B, and I don’t know how the Braves make that work.

By Andy K.

January 30, 2009 1:59 PM | Link to this

DOB, who was there in terms of catchers, or was it just guys like Alan Butts, etc. If McCann was there, how did he look in terms of slimming down, etc.

By dogsbrekky

January 30, 2009 2:04 PM | Link to this

DOB - re Skip - he never surprises me as I rarely agree with him….. and the a* perves at my g/f every time we are near the turd !

By Hytest

January 30, 2009 2:05 PM | Link to this

Ya Know I read this post almost every day, late at night when I’m bored. It’s amazing to me how some of the people are so rude to each other, 99% of us Love the Braves, we all want the best for the Braves. I can’t for the life of my figure out what is wrong with expressing what you feel would help the braves. we all have Our different ideas about what they need. Truth is we don’t know, not really. We all got mad when the falcons drafted ryan and no Glen Dorsey, how did that turn out……….

By Original Jon

January 30, 2009 2:05 PM | Link to this

Dude, forget it, you aren’t even worth wasting my time.

By Harry

January 30, 2009 2:12 PM | Link to this

The Boss is a fraud. Mr. Blue Collar, modern day Woodie Guthrie perforning at the Super Bowl? Give me a break!

By Tim McCaver

January 30, 2009 2:14 PM | Link to this

Your a real man Deion!

By ChipperFan

January 30, 2009 2:16 PM | Link to this

DOB

Great blog, sir. You make the most compelling case I’ve heard yet for Abreu. I can’t help but think that Wren will realize what a bargain he is, and convince McGuirk and Liberty Media that we need to pull the trigger. I’d also hope that if they do offer Abreu a contract, that it would be a 1-year deal + a club option for a second year, or just a straight-up one year deal. If Abreu is smart (and I’m sure he and his agent are), he’ll prefer a 1-year anyway, knowing that next winter the economy will almost certainly be better, and there’ll almost certainly be fewer corner OFs on the market.

By richbrave

January 30, 2009 2:23 PM | Link to this

GIL:

Got a new one. glawrence007@yahoo.net. Can’t ever remember which, com or net. Send me mail. Grandson’s finally starting to recover from that broken kneecap football injury. Tell you all about it over there. Later.

By Reality

January 30, 2009 2:24 PM | Link to this

Kelly Johnson and Tommy Hanson for Rick Ankiel (one year from free agency; Boras client) and Adam Kennedy (can’t hit) is the worst for-the-Braves trade I’ve ever seen suggested here.

Usually the dumb, never-happening trades suggested here are bad for the other team. Fantasy trades like Prado for Ludwick or Kelly Johnson for Tim Lincecum are dumb sure, but they at least favor the home-town team. Johnson and Hanson for Ankiel and Kennedy? Seriously?!

By ryan c

January 30, 2009 2:25 PM | Link to this

i too am under the impression that we have to trade some of our logjam of talent at starting pitching. i say, trade campillo. he was good last year, but i can’t see him duplicating his numbers. he is about the only tradable player we have that is overvalued. prado (who doesnt really have a place on the team), campillo, and one of morton/reyes shoud make a run at swisher. Here’s the way I see it. We have between 31-33 players that are competing for a major league job. some are serviceable backups but have no spot on the team. Obviously only one of o’flaherty or logan will make the squad (assuming we dont sign ohman). we really are in great position to trade any of the following: soriano, campillo, jo-jo, morton, parr, prado, carlyle, bennett, ridgway, anderson, or blanco. Here is the list I gathered.
1. J. Vazquez 2. D. Lowe 3. J. Jurrjens 4. K. Kawakami 5. J. Campillo 6. J. Reyes 7. C. Morton 8. J. Parr 9.C. Kotchman 10.M. Prado 11.B. McCann 12.M. Gonzalez (CL) 13.R. Soriano 14.M. Acosta 15.B. Boyer 16.B. Logan 17.B. Carlyle 18.J. Bennett 19.J. Ridgway 20.M. Diaz 21.B. Jones 22.J. Anderson 23.J. Francoeur 24.G. Blanco 25.T. Hanson 26.Y. Escobar 27.K. Johnson 28.C. Jones 29.O. Infante 30.J. Schafer 31.O’Flaherty 32.Glavine? 33.A. Jones?

By PStone

January 30, 2009 2:30 PM | Link to this

DOB?

Two questions and a statement.

Not sure if it has been mentioned, but how is Moylan doing? Secondly, did you say you live in NYC?

Lastly, I enjoy Papi’s on Ponce quite a bit. If you have not been there, the regular Cuban sandwich is pretty good (also cheap).

By The Great Hyphenated Compound Modifier Vs. Unhyphenated Compound Noun Debate of 2009

January 30, 2009 2:34 PM | Link to this

DOB, love the blog. Are you coming out to Austin in March for South by Southwest?

By Canadianbrave

January 30, 2009 2:35 PM | Link to this

BravesfanInRockies:

Prado has the glove for third base! It certainly doesn’t seem like anyone on the Braves with the exception of Terry Pendleton has any confidence in him. Even the fan base seems to have written him off. Perhaps we could find a way to package him up and send him to the Twins. I think he’s a bonafide major league player!

By getnathan

January 30, 2009 2:39 PM | Link to this

Hinske is close to a deal with the Pirates. Braves may have enough depth to trade for Swisher. Hey my fellow Braves fans, how does the non-trade for Peavy look now? Given the way our pitching staff has been assembled. I think if we get Peavy, we don’t sign Lowe (who I think is a better option than Peavy) we don’t get Vazquez, and we lose some good young players. Sometimes the best trade is the one that’s not made. What do you think?

By wayne

January 30, 2009 2:41 PM | Link to this

Great article on Manny R. on espn’s website today. It’s on Bill Simmons blog. He’s a Boston guy and he know’s they messed up with Manny. If the Braves are really serious about winning, they will sign this guy. Read the comments Bill S. has to say and see for yourself.

By LoyalBraves20+

January 30, 2009 2:41 PM | Link to this

Is it just me or does AJC need to completely restructure the way they have all of this set up.

Seems to me a message board format would be a WWWWAAAAYYYY better way to go.

Scrolling down to read with words laid out in an open space makes it very difficult to focus.

Opinions?

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2009 2:41 PM | Link to this

Kelly Johnson and Tommy Hanson for Rick Ankiel (one year from free agency; Boras client) and Adam Kennedy (can’t hit) is the worst for-the-Braves trade I’ve ever seen suggested here.Reality

I’d tend to agree. Definitely one of the two or three worst, if not the absolute worst.

By Canadianbrave

January 30, 2009 2:42 PM | Link to this

Does anyone know anything about Diory Hernandez? He seems to have had some good stats in winter ball and now he appears on the 40 man roster. Has anyone seen him play or have an opinion?

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2009 2:44 PM | Link to this

AndyK: McCann wasn’t there. Only Sammons and Butts.

Pstone: Moylan’s said to be doing great in his recovery, presumably will be ready to break camp with the team, or shortly thereafter. He’s getting his visa right now, had to go to the Bahamas again to get it (complicated process we can’t get into right now, since I’ve gotta write story for the paper/online).

And no, I do not and have never lived in NYC. How would I live in NYC and cover the Braves?

By LoyalBraves20+

January 30, 2009 2:48 PM | Link to this

Here is hoping I can make the most appealing case…

DON’T SIGN ANYONE TO PLAY LEFT FIELD!!!!

I say go into spring training with the idea that it will be a platoon of Diaz and Shaefer. Why? To give Shaefer as much PT as possible.

I fully believe Diaz will be a servicable LF next year and giving Shaefer the 4th OF spot on the team will give him much needed experience and also let the Braves coaching staff, and upper management, know if Shaefer is all they make him out to be.

Even if the Braves were to sign Dunn or Abreu there is no guarantee that they would be able to make the Braves any better than they are being slated to be, so why waste the money?

By Billy Walsh

January 30, 2009 2:49 PM | Link to this

Looking at Swisher’s numbers..I’m sure it wouldnt take that much to get him. Problem is…I have this feeling that he is going to turn out like Reggie Sanders did or even Craig Wilson did for the braves. Brian Roberts…thats not happening either is Orlando Hudson. So that leaves either Adam Dunn or Bobby Abreu. The outfield needs to be addressed. With all the one run games the braves lost last year. We need a power surge this year. I would be fine with either Dunn or Abreu. If you had to guess DOB, who is playing in LF this year for the braves and who is playing in CF?

By getnathan

January 30, 2009 2:50 PM | Link to this

I wish Braves would sign manny Ramirez. That would put us as the favorites to win the division. Stick him right at #4. And Chipper would have an equally great season.

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2009 2:51 PM | Link to this

Oh, and Hudson had a funny answer when I asked him about the 2010 option on his contract (club option at $12 mill, which he can veto if he wants, foregoing a $1 mill buyout):

“I might be the long man in the ‘pen,” he said, referring to the depth the Braves could have in their 2010 rotation. “But that’s a good problem to have. You can never have too much pitching. last year was a prime example.”

On whether he’s thought about the option: “If I’m healthy, I’m hoping they like what they see enough to pick it up. I’m still young. I see myself pitching for another seven or eight years, now that I’ve got a new elbow. I feel good about it.

“There’s no other place I’d rather be. But then, it is a business. We’ve got some good arms around here.”

By the way, he’s finally finishing his family’s new house that’s been under construction nearly three years in Auburn, Ala. They had some problems with an electric wiring system after a company went out of business, etc. House should be done this summer.

By Canadianbrave

January 30, 2009 2:52 PM | Link to this

Lets give it a whirl! Top ten albums of all time! Sorry but Bruce is not on my list! 1. Dark Side of The Moon 2. Pearl Jam 10 3. Quadrophenia 4. Crime of the Century 5. Downtown Train 6. As Falls Wichita so Falls Wichita Falls 7. Road Apples 8. Nirvana Unplugged in New York 9. Twelve Dreams of Dr. Sardonicus 10. Close to the edge

By Salamander

January 30, 2009 3:01 PM | Link to this

*Canadianbrave *

Young has a career .739 OPS (3 seasons) and has hit a paltry 26HR in 1346 ABs over those 3 seasons (with 75 doubles and 5 triples)… His OPS+ has ranged from 91-108, so to this point in his career, he has been a fairly average hitter at best (with over 100 SO in each of the past 2 seasons).

I suspect that those numbers are not what the Braves’ front office have in mind for the cleanup hitter. Maybe this guy blossoms in 2009 and becomes a solid hitter, but the problem is that his ascension to the “next level” of hitting is not a given, and as such, the braves would be gambling that he would improve as a hitter, which i don’t think is really a decent bet.

IMO he wouldn’t be worth the risk given that the Braves need a legit (i.e. proven) hitter with power to pencil into the 4th slot of the order.

26HR in 1346 career ABs? no thanks.

By FadeAway

January 30, 2009 3:01 PM | Link to this

Kamikaze is a gamer, he is going to be MUCH MUCH better than any of the supposed experts predict. Dogs

and you know that how? You spend years in Japan watching him pitch? Or are you just running your mouth about something you read somewhere? 7 some million is not cheap for a pitcher who most project as a number 3 or 4.

By Jersey Gil

January 30, 2009 3:01 PM | Link to this

On a controversial note, Skip Bayless, who lives near me in NYC just called “the Boss” the most overrated performer ever on this morning’s ESPN 1st Take….dogsbrekk

That’s important, what Skip Bayless thinks of Bruce. Very important.

DOB The Boss is in Good Company, Skip Bayless also has this Comment in the Past…”Payton Manning is not a great QB Because he never win Big Games” “On Tiger Wood: He is not the Greatest Golfer of all time”

By Ed Glennon

January 30, 2009 3:02 PM | Link to this

Andruw hit as many home runs as Jones and Anderson. Any new outfielder would be an improvement over the collection we have now. As I said before if you could get $7 a pound for Andruw I would sign him. $400,000 for him is a joke. By the way I know that Andruw hit one home run in Atlanta. How many home runs did Kotchman hit in Atlanta? - if anyone knows let me know.

By N Nine (eta65)

January 30, 2009 3:03 PM | Link to this

Hudson is the mann!

I really hope we keep him and his new elbow!!!;)

By Joe

January 30, 2009 3:04 PM | Link to this

The Braves need to sign these people.

1. Nick Swisher (He will fit good in the braves lineup)
2. Chad Cordero (He can help Mike Gonzales save games)
3. Trade Kelly Johnson to the Orioles for Brian Roberts.

By FadeAway

January 30, 2009 3:04 PM | Link to this

One would think that the Braves are yet another casulity of coporate greed. Suck all the good out of the team and put nothing back. Does Time Warner really care if the Braves have a winning season or not????? Me thinks not!! John

why would Time-Warner care one way or another what the Braves do? they have no relationship for years. What log have you been hiding under?

By PStone

January 30, 2009 3:05 PM | Link to this

My bad I misread the Skip Bayless bit as you saying he lives down the street from you. I guess by your response that we both agree that it would have been a strange situation if you did live in NYC.

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

January 30, 2009 3:10 PM | Link to this

DOB “AndyK: McCann wasn’t there. Only Sammons and Butts.”

Where Brian McCann at?

By N Nine (eta65)

January 30, 2009 3:12 PM | Link to this

trade kelly Johnson— who has a good future with us for a one year rental of Brian Roberts? No thanks Joe!

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2009 3:15 PM | Link to this

Forgot to mention: Chipper moved into Smoltz’s old locker, the first one by the hallway to the off-limits (to reporters) training room and showers area. The player with the most tenure on the team gets to choose where he wants his locker.

By matt

January 30, 2009 3:16 PM | Link to this

Seems to me, economically it makes the most sense to sign Swisher. He’s a switch hitter, puts up serviceable numbers, plays the best D of all the other options and has the most years left on his contract. Should be a no brainer; depending on what the Braves would have to give up to get him.

More concerns: Jo Jo has yet to prove he’s major league worthy. He’s outstanding in AAA but gets shelled or can’t find the plate in the bigs. Morton has been equally unimpressive, imo.

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2009 3:19 PM | Link to this

Great Hyphenated: What are dates for South by Southwest?

By dogsbrekky

January 30, 2009 3:20 PM | Link to this

Fadeaway - I lived in Japan and have done business there for 18 years. I have seen the best Japanese players over a long time including Godzilla, Dice K, Kkawakami etc etc, even saw old Dan Gladden play for the Yomiuri Giants a long time back…. I used to go to the Giants games regularly and also watch games on tv (only thing I could stand wathcing over there with CNN)…. my best friend from h/s is in the professional league in Japan as a coach ad infinitum… so no I am just running my mouth off… ok hero !

The major risk to Kenshin is if he cannot adjust to the different ball…

By Salamander

January 30, 2009 3:20 PM | Link to this

The Braves need to sign these people.

1. Nick Swisher (He will fit good in the braves lineup)
2. Chad Cordero (He can help Mike Gonzales save games)
3. Trade Kelly Johnson to the Orioles for Brian Robert Joe

(1) Swisher - maybe (depends on the quality/number of prospects required to obtain)

(2) meh

(3) Quit trying to trade KJ people!

1-year of Roberts for KJ straight up (which the Orioles would never do I imagine) is tempting. Adding more young players to the deal with KJ in return for 1-year of Roberts (at $8 million) sounds less than appealing.

Keep the cheap YOUNG players. Roberts is 31 already, so if you sign him to a hypothetical extension (say 4 years, $10 mill per) - you have an expensive 2B through his 32-35 birthdays.

Hey - maybe he doesn’t lose any of his speed, (but most players do in their 30s), and remains a SB threat through a potential extension. Its possible i guess, but I wouldn’t put money on it.

By dogsbrekky

January 30, 2009 3:23 PM | Link to this

And yes I recall Skip Bayless on several occassions referring to Peyton as a choker…. KG as Kevin GARNOT etc etc lol lol lol..

I do not know much about American Footy and the NBA, but I know a star when I see one….

By StingerSplash

January 30, 2009 3:24 PM | Link to this

Bruce Springsteen has more talent in one sweat-soaked wrist band than Skip Bayless does in his whole bony carbon-based life form. Bayless is a tool.

By Steve

January 30, 2009 3:29 PM | Link to this

StingerSplash - you’re dead on. There is the undeniable, “Bayless is a tool,” thing.

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

January 30, 2009 3:31 PM | Link to this

N Nine—

I hope so, too.

By TennesseePaul

January 30, 2009 3:31 PM | Link to this

asked him about the 2010 option on his contract (club option at $12 mill, which he can veto if he wants

The information on this Hudson option is as dynamic as it can be. Initially described as a mutual option at the time of signing, then as a club option earlier this off-season, then as a mutual option by his agent and now as a club option which he can veto. The last description seems to imply that Hudson himself couldn’t initiate the option, but he could stop it if it were initiated. Sort of a one-sided mutual option deal. Are these common? I usually hear about the typical mutual option, of which a player or team can pick it up and then the other party can subsequently decline. This one now sounds as if only the team can pick it up, but Hudson has the right to decline.

By dogsbrekky

January 30, 2009 3:32 PM | Link to this

re top albums, I have the Nirvana live and their version of “Man who Rules the World” is brilliant..

My top 10 (sorry there are a few aussie albums here)

1. Cold Chisel “Circus Animals”
2. Ian Moss “Matchbook”
3. The Beatles “White”
4. Cold Chisel “East”
5. The Who “Quadrophenia”
6. Rolling Stones “black and Blue”
7. Midnight Oil “10,9,8…….1”
8. Pink Floyd “Dark Side of the Moon”
9. The Beatles “Abbey Road”
10. Billy Joel “The Nylon Curtain” or “52nd Street”

By TennesseePaul

January 30, 2009 3:35 PM | Link to this

Forgot to mention: Chipper moved into Smoltz’s old locker

Voltures. Every last one of them.

By sri

January 30, 2009 3:48 PM | Link to this

Hi DOB,

Thanks for the quotes.. dobsbrekky’s post got me thinking… When major league scouts go over to Japan to look at players, do they ask the Japanese pitchers to pitch with MLB baseballs? I guess that is possible only if they private workouts? Do you know if Kawakami gave any private workouts of MLB scouts? Are private workouts allowed? Almost all scouting reports on Japanese pitchers seem to mention the difference in the size of baseballs?

By The Canuck

January 30, 2009 3:51 PM | Link to this

Bruce Springsteen… oh ya, he’s the American version of Bryan Adams.

By Eric B

January 30, 2009 4:07 PM | Link to this

By David O’Brien

January 30, 2009 2:51 PM | Link to this

Oh, and Hudson had a funny answer when I asked him about the 2010 option on his contract (club option at $12 mill, which he can veto if he wants, foregoing a $1 mill buyout):

“There’s no other place I’d rather be. But then, it is a business. We’ve got some good arms around here.”

Thats Really good to hear, I really like our roatation for 2010 alot but I think a healthy Hudson makes it top notch in the NL.

By beekay

January 30, 2009 4:10 PM | Link to this

Gil,Rich Brave: Took my Son to the Potomac Nat-Myrtle Beach playoff game and had a blast. They had an all you can eat night of burgers and dogs included with the ticket. I bought a box seat for $12 two rows from the third baseman and ate till my stomach hurt. My son was given a ball by one of the Pelican pitchers named Diamond and he also was given a Canon t-shirt by the mascot. Got to see Gorkys hit, Cole pitch, Flowers catch. The biggest impression was made by their first baseman Mejia. He hit two towering home runs. He was built like Galarraga….not sure where he ranks prospect wise but he had 21 dingers last year for the Pelicans

By FadeAway

January 30, 2009 4:12 PM | Link to this

Great blog, sir. You make the most compelling case I’ve heard yet for Abreu ChipperFan

No offense to O’Brien,he’s right, but it’s the same damn thing half a dozen on here have been saying all along.Random, hit this guy with one of your kiss-azz posts

By Lew

January 30, 2009 4:17 PM | Link to this

Random-Whatever. You’re certainly free to compare whomever you desire, whether or not there are large age differences or 90 years separating their careers with nothing else in common other than that they are both good hitters and are both considered attitudinal. Again. Whatever. Why do you even care what my opinion is? You think that I and mostly everyone else here on the blog are idiots anyway.

Chrisr-I really don’t care what Manny’s rationale (or his desires re:the option year/s) was. You don’t refuse to play a game or make your teammates/management miserable because of it. Lots of teams wait until the season’s over to pick up or decline options. It is hardly unknown or underhanded behavior. The Dude has made around a quarter billion dollars in his career with more to come. I think he’ll be all right.

It doesn’t make a bit of difference what his future was anyway. He was paid quite well to perform for the year he was already playing and it was his duty to play and not to throw a tantrum about something his agent should have been dealing with to begin with.

And all of this is nothing more than a meaningless argument anyway, because all I was saying was that the type of behavior Manny exhibits when Manny is Being Manny is totally unacceptable to Bobby Cox or the Braves’ organization so wishing he were here in Atlanta like so many seem to be is a moot point. It will not happen.

By jz

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

DOB-

What are the chances of Peter Moylan storming out of the pen this year to “Outlaw Pete”?

By Gil In Mechanicsville

January 30, 2009 4:41 PM | Link to this

No, Manny will not be coming to Atlanta unless he is wearing a Dodgers uniform, still the most likely scenario. Just hot stove conjecture.

Still, the Bravos will sign a couple of more players before they break camp. With it being so close to camp, I would not be surprised to see them give Schafer a hard look.

By MiamiBeachBravesFan

January 30, 2009 4:45 PM | Link to this

Memo to Frank Wren:

Allow Brandon Jones and Josh Anderson to duke it out over the right to platton with Matt Diaz. Sign Ohman AND Glavine. Here’s why.

We talked about the need to improve our starting pitching, but we have a slew of relievers that are coming back from injuries. The starters need to prove they can all pitch between 190-200 innings this season - that includes Kawakami (if Glavine can hold the fort at six-per until Tim Hudson’s arrival in August, he will be worth every penny spent).

The bigger wild card in all of this was a lineup that was truly inconsistent last season. In many cases, they underperformed. Before we decide to spend money on Abreu (the only logical choice), can this lineup hit? Can it be consistent?

I’d rather sign Andruw Jones for a nominal amount, just to cover the RF corner (and to compete against B. Jones and Anderson), and use the first couple of months to see if the 2009 lineup can hit, and if the pitching can hold its own - especially the relief if the starters can pitch seven every night.

Maybe then, will we see if signing one of the unemployed corner outfielders is worth our time this season. Or, we may not have to, if the troika of Jones/Jones/Anderson produces one partner for Diaz.

PS - Kelly Johnson HAS to stay and do the job at second base because Jason Heyward will be in LF sooner than later. Freddy Freeman can take Casey Kotchman’s job in 2012, so he has time.

By Thrillhouse44

January 30, 2009 4:56 PM | Link to this

No offense to O’Brien,he’s right, but it’s the same damn thing half a dozen on here have been saying all along.Random, hit this guy with one of your kiss-azz posts FadeAway

Man, the only thing you’ve done this blog is call others out. If there are half a dozen similar posts to ChipperFan’s, why do you have to single himher out? You tried to hang dogsbrekky out to dry, but he backed his statement up big time and you had no response. How about you contribute something in addition to knocking down others? ChipperFan was just saying what he felt and I’m sure DOB enjoys the occasional compliment; he works harder on this blog than he has to and a little appreciation isn’t an awful thing.

By BamaBrave

January 30, 2009 5:00 PM | Link to this

Man, just once I’d like to see a hemmoroid like Manny get left out in the cold. Just once I’d like to see one of these arrogant, over-valued dimwits roll the dice, assume somebody will cough up their asking price, and miss the boat completely. Sorry Manny, nobody called. See you in 2010. Manny may have the perfect combination of detrimental qualities to allow this… He’s spoiled, immature, coddled, short-sighted, disrespectful of the game - and perhaps most importantly - he has a vainglorious agent who’s the personification of greed. Maybe this is my year.

I know, I know…it won’t happen. But I can dream, can’t I?

By TennesseePaul

January 30, 2009 5:04 PM | Link to this

Sheets, Hudson and Cabrera all are Type A free agents; as it stands, any team that signs them would forfeit a high draft pick. But, as first reported by ESPN’s Buster Olney, draft-pick compensation vanishes after the June draft — all the more reason for certain Type As to hold firm
—Ken Rosenthal

I don’t mean to bring this up again, but I got put through the grinder by at least on guy here…(you know who you are)… My question was answered by Olney and reaffirmed by Rosenthal. There IS a limit as to the compensation time of a Type A free agent. I knew it couldn’t be eternal. I knew there was a caveat to the system… however improbable it is to occur.

By FadeAway

January 30, 2009 5:22 PM | Link to this

If there are half a dozen similar posts to ChipperFan’s, why do you have to single himher out? Thrill

you might try sharpening your reading comprehension skill for a thrill, Thrill. I didn’t say there were a half dozen posts similar to ChipperFan’s, I said that half a dozen or more posters have said the same thing that DOB just said, but it didn’t much seem to matter to old CF until DOB said it. It’s ok if he wants to put more emphasis on DOB’s comments obviously, but it was no more cogent an argument than others have presented.As I said I meant no disrespect to DOB. AS for Dogswhatever. What kind of name is that to inspire trust? Sounds like something a pet owner would clean up off the sidewalk. I wonder if Kawakami perved his girlfriend too just like Bayless?

By Thrillhouse44

January 30, 2009 5:31 PM | Link to this

Apologies, FadeAway. Long day at the office and a long couple weeks. Have a good weekend.

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2009 5:35 PM | Link to this

JC: I like it. A lot. Moylan to Outlaw Pete. Let’s hope the Aussie likes The Boss, or at least likes that song.

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2009 5:38 PM | Link to this

sri: No, scouts from major league teams go over and watch Japanese pitchers in games. They’re in middle of their season and aren’t permitted (maybe there’s an exception, but I haven’t heard) to throw private workouts on the side for scouts from MLB teams. No way.

Hey, when Wren and his scouts went to see Kawakami pitch, they didn’t even know for sure he’d be pitching. Japanese teams usually don’t announce their rotation plans in advance like they do here, and Wren said he went three different time to see the Chunichi Dragons play, hoping to see Kawakami, and didn’t get to see him once.

Braves scouts saw him pitch a bunch, though. But Wren went all the way over there and didn’t even get to see him pitch.

By Patrick

January 30, 2009 5:39 PM | Link to this

DOB

Since Moylan’s agent is the infamous Arn Tellem Agency, does that mean that he definitely won’t be back with the Braves once he hits the FA market, assuming he keeps the same agent?

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2009 5:41 PM | Link to this

TennPaul: Precisely right, only Braves can pick up the Hudson option, but he can veto it (but that’s not gonna happen. If they pick it up, he’s not gonna veto a $12 mill option, unless there’s a sea change in baseball economy before next winter and some team is willing to give a contract with a salary above $12 mill in 2010 to a pitcher who’ll probably make no more than 3-5 starts in 2009.)

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2009 5:46 PM | Link to this

Bruce Springsteen� oh ya, he�s the American version of Bryan Adams.The Canuck

Oh, yeah.

Bryan Adams has plenty of masterpiece albums as good as “Born To Run,” “The River,” “Darkness on the Edge of Town,” “Nebraska” and “The Wild, The Innocent, and the E-Street Shuffle.”

I just can’t think of them off the top of my head. But he does. I’m sure of it.

Canuck, if you’re going to compare him to a Canadian, let’s go with a great artist like Leonard Cohen, Neil Young or Bruce Cockburn. Please.

There’s also Joni Mitchell or The Band (four of the five were from Canada). Plenty of great artists from Canada might be mentioned in the same sentence, or at least the same paragraph, as the Boss from New Jersey.

But I dare say, Bryan Adams ain’t one of them.

By Bubdylan

January 30, 2009 5:54 PM | Link to this

DOB, how did you get into the music that you like? Did you have a father/uncle/brother type figure turn you on to the good stuff (no offense to mothers/aunts/sisters, it’s just not the way it usually happens from what I’ve seen.)

Did you discover your tastes gradually? Grow up listening to the good stuff, or graduate to it from more standard pop music? Just curious. (Or anyone else who’d like to answer that question.)

I was basically berated into good taste by a college roomie who hammered me mercilessly for the tastes I left highschool with… I guess I owe him?

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 30, 2009 5:58 PM | Link to this

http://www.baseballhandyman.com/2009/01/throwing-good-money-at-bad-bench.html

By Bubdylan

January 30, 2009 6:00 PM | Link to this

if you’re going to compare him to a Canadian, let’s go with someone like Neil Young. Please. -DOB

Or Leonard Cohen, maybe?

Hey don’t underestimate Bryan Adams. Have you heard the soundtrack to “Spirit?!”

By Bill in ATL

January 30, 2009 6:00 PM | Link to this

I think Bryan Adams is better than Springstein now that you mention it. Seriously. I can’t stand his music and I’m pretty open to almost every genre. Don’t want to argue about it, just saying what I feel.

By Marc

January 30, 2009 6:13 PM | Link to this

Abreu is still on the market cause his career is going downhill. He might be slightly better than letting one of our prospects give it a go, but not by much.

By brent a.

January 30, 2009 6:19 PM | Link to this

Braves scouts saw him pitch a bunch, though. But Wren went all the way over there and didn’t even get to see him pitch. DOB

The “anti-Wren” crowd could do a lot with that.

By stamper

January 30, 2009 6:22 PM | Link to this

Yeah, I’m not much for the Boss, either. I’m not saying he isn’t talented.. cuz he is… but his music never did much for me. And his new album? … no comment.

Having said that, Bryan Adams isn’t remotely comparable to Bruce.

By Canadianbrave

January 30, 2009 6:35 PM | Link to this

How about Gord Downie…Tragically Hip

By Hardball19

January 30, 2009 6:38 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB, since you are such a fan of the Boss, you might find this interesting. My father and uncle grew up in Asbury Park at the same time as Springsteen and even went to the same high school. My father was four years ahead of him but he and my uncle were in school at the same time. Pretty cool to to your uncle in the same yearbook as Bruce Springsteen.

By nolie

January 30, 2009 6:47 PM | Link to this

in 1974, 25-year-old Bruce Springsteen played at the Harvard Square Theater in Cambridge. Although popular with the college crowd in the Northeast, Springsteen was not yet a star. That night, he and the E Street Band opened for Bonnie Raitt. The influential music critic Jon Landau was in the audience. Overwhelmed by what he heard, Landau wrote, “I saw my rock and roll past flash before my eyes. I saw something else: I saw rock and roll’s future and its name is Bruce Springsteen. In the years since that momentous spring night in Cambridge, the Boss has had 14 albums go platinum, has won 11 Grammies and an Oscar, and has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2009 7:03 PM | Link to this

Hardball, that’s cool. A dude who works in PR for the Braves, his mom went to high school in Akron with Chrissie Hynde. Same class, in fact.

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2009 7:04 PM | Link to this

Marc, how can you possibly look at Abreu’s performance last season and come to the conclusion that he might be “slightly better” than letting “one of our prospects” play LF instead? Seriously, do you follow baseball?

By brent a.

January 30, 2009 7:12 PM | Link to this

Personally, I have never formed a real opinion on the Manny-Red Sox saga. I hear some of what people say, but I haven’t read enough about it to form an opinion.

But, I thought I’d share these comments Bill Simmons made today during a chat. (I hope these look right when I post - TN Paul, I’m looking your way …). I know, Simmons is not an expert; but, he is a fan who follows his teams the way I follow the Braves and Lakers; however, he also has the benefit of media contacts, etc.

Paul (SF): Should the Red Sox put a clause in Varitek’s contract that says he doesn’t get paid if he hit less that .150?

Bill Simmons: From what I understand, you’re not allowed to put stat clauses in people’s contracts for baseball - I investigated this because the natural Manny contract would obviously be $10 million a year with $25 million of stat incentives, all of which he’d reach. So I don’t think you can do that.

Bill Simmons: So I think they appeal to his pride as a man and say, “We’ll give you 10 million.” But if you aren’t hitting .220 at the All Star Break, you HAVE TO RETIRE. Conrad (Phila.): Sorry about the Dooze. As someone who watched his dog get run over by a car, losing a dog before they’re supposed to is tough. Now that that’s out of the way, you’re an idiot — Manny Ramirez is perfectly rated. He’s just a nut case. That’s why nobody wants him; nobody doesn’t say he isn’t like one of the top 10 hitters in baseball EVER …

Bill Simmons: But he’s not! He is NOT properly rated! Here is a guy who got on base 24 of 36 times in the 2008 postseason and the fans of teams like Anaheim and Texas and San Fran aren’t clamoring for their GM’s to sign him. It’s crazy to me. Everyone seems to think he is a cancer of the highest order… why? Because that’s what the Red Sox front office told their media minions. We have NEVER HEARD MANNY’S SIDE EVER. We are hearing one side of the story. It’s a smear campaign. How could anyone NOT think this guy would produce for 3 years if you gave him $75 million… in a league that’s given AJ Burnett and Barry Zito huge money? I am just flabbergasted by this whole thing. His teams have won everywhere he’s gone. Without fail.

RC (District of Columbia): Manny averages an OPS+ of 155 and a lifetime EqA of .327….with those numbers he can play LF in a diaper for all I care

Bill Simmons: See, another team that should sign him - the Nats. People in DC do not care about that team. At all. Manny doesn’t make them more interesting? They’re willing to give Tex 170 million - a guy who has played on bad teams for nearly his entire career - but Manny isn’t worth $75m for three? He wouldn’t sell tickets? He wouldn’t hit?

Jeff (SF): What’s Manny’s side of the story? The clubhouse attendant had it coming?

Bill Simmons: Manny got manipulated by his agent. We know that much. But at the heart of it is this: The Sox won the 2007 WS, and heading into 2008, Manny made it clear he wanted to stay and he wanted some resolution to his contract one way or the other - either waive the 09 10 options or pick them up. The Sox did neither. They let him twist in the wind. Did he deserve that after giving them 7 HUGE years and helping them win two titles? I say no. I think they were jerks about it. But that’s what nobody seems to take into account … the Sox could have avoided a potential mess with Boras simply by waiving those last 2 option years. Why didn’t they do it? Because they wanted to control the process.

Bill Simmons: I just thought they handled it arrogantly. “You know what Manny? Go out and hit some baseballs and we’ll let you know what we decide in a few months.” And he handled it poorly. But when you have someone that YOU KNOW will handle something like that poorly, and you proceed in that direction anyway, aren’t you at least partly to blame?

Pflug (Queens, NY): I am totally with you on Manny, I think he’s going to absolutely rake wherever he winds up next year (crossing my fingers for the Mets to pony up the cash). If he stays in the NL for a full season, is there a chance of him hitting .400?

Bill Simmons: Thats the other thing: if I’m an NL team with inferior pitching in my league, I want Manny on my team… also he’s getting close to being in the top-5 of some pretty cool records/stats and I do think he cares about that stuff.

Brock (Idaho Falls, Id): So Pujols is lobbying to have the Cardinals offer Manny a contract. Now this is a long shot, no scratch that, a looooooooooong shot, but would that be the greatest 3-4 hitter combo in history?

Bill Simmons: If that is true, God help the National League. I do wonder though how these mid-market teams (like STL or Det) aren’t going to get just murdered by the recession with their ticket sales this season. I am convinced that Boston’s long range plan is to go after Miggy Cabrera this summer as soon as it’s mid May and Detroit realizes, “Goodness, we are going to lose 40 million this year, who wants Miggy????? Anyone?”

here is the link in case I completely butchered the post

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2009 7:18 PM | Link to this

Bubdylan, you must’ve wrote Cohen before seeing that I changed my comment to include him and a few others immediately after I first posted it.

By BravesFanInRockies

January 30, 2009 7:19 PM | Link to this

Najeh Davenpoop

That’s a great link. And pretty much my feelings about the Mutts’ recent pickups.

Unless/until they sign Ollie, the Mets enter the season with a rotation of Santana, Maine, Pelphrey and Redding. Niese might be the #5 guy. After that … who? Garcia, Fossum, Snyder. Bleh.

The Braves — Lowe, Jurrjens, Vazquez, Kawakami — are looking pretty sweet by comparison. If one of Campillo, Morton, Reyes or Hanson pans out, that’s a deep if not eye-popping rotation.

I’d say the same about us vs. Philly. Hamels is great. Myers is sometimes brilliant, sometimes awful. Moyer is who he is. And then there’s …

By Bubdylan

January 30, 2009 7:32 PM | Link to this

DOB, ah.. I didn’t catch the edit in time. Of course now my comment’s stuck out there in gooberville where I can’t change it. There outta be a law…

Good call on Cockburn, too.

By Run Heap Run

January 30, 2009 7:46 PM | Link to this

Hey everyone, I don’t have time right now to thoroughly read thru the comments from the last several days to see if this has been posted but I got the Feb issue of Chop Talk in the mail today and was pleasantly surprised to see a page on our own Lew’s art. The blog and DOB got a nice shoutout as well.

Here’s a scan of the page

Click pic to see full size.

And of course if this is not kosher with DOB or Lew, or if it has already been posted a million times then by all means, remove it.

Have a good weekend everyone!

By larrryjeans

January 30, 2009 7:47 PM | Link to this

What about Garrett Anderson for one year, free agent, no prospects lost?

By nolie

January 30, 2009 7:51 PM | Link to this

He throws a strike at Angels MORNING READ: A farmhand writes about his year in A-ball. By SAM MILLER The Orange County Register

On the greatest day of his life, Matt McCarthy took a call from a Major League baseball scout named Byron, who told him he had been drafted to play baseball for the Angels.

“Now, you went to Yale,” Byron told him, “so I’m sure you’re a smart kid. But please don’t do anything stupid once you get out there. Don’t make me look bad.”

“Of course,” McCarthy told him.

At least, that’s the account in McCarthy’s book, “Odd Man Out.” It’s a tell-all of his year in the Angels’ farm system, from the racial divide in the clubhouse to the oversized sex toy players touched for good luck; from players making fun of handicapped kids to guys using steroids.

It comes out next month and it’s a book that, if we’re honest about it, makes Byron and the Angels look bad. “I’m sure there will be a defamation of character lawsuit filed by someone, as well there should be,” a former teammate, Heath Luther says.

But, McCarthy swears, that was never his intention. He says he roots for the Angels. He calls them the best organization in sports. The question, then, is how he could write such a brutally revealing book.

•••

Matt McCarthy could throw 90 mph left-handed – a scarce commodity – so the Angels drafted him out of Yale. They paid him $1,000 to sign and sent him to rookie ball in Provo, Utah.

Provo is four promotions away from the major leagues, but many of the game’s top players start in rookie ball. Joe Saunders, the Angels’ 17-game winner of a year ago, was a teammate; so was Angels’ shortstop Erick Aybar. He faced Prince Fielder, now one of the best home-run hitters in the sport. His best friend from Yale, Craig Breslow, was in rookie ball at the same time and now pitches for the Minnesota Twins.

Most of the players in Provo, though, will never make the major leagues. Matt pitched 15 games over three months, struggled, lost his 90 mph fastball and was cut the following spring.

After he was cut, he enrolled in Harvard Medical School. The Provo Angels moved to the nearby town of Orem. Saunders and Aybar got promoted to the majors, while Luther and most of the rest went back home to Indiana or West Virginia or Beverly Hills to get real jobs. Eventually, as that year in Provo came into perspective, McCarthy turned his journal into a book.

The result is a story that will make readers jealous of the experience, while wondering whether McCarthy enjoyed it at all. His nervous insecurity caused his bowels to revolt, and he spent much of his time in Provo on the toilet

•••

Fans tend to think of a baseball team as 25 men who share a special relationship, like a military unit. They endure extreme physical situations, they live far from home and go to battle together daily, they shower as a group. When two baseball players fight, sportswriters and fans treat it as a minor scandal. If the team concept is real, it’s unfathomable that a man would leave the unit and write a tell-all.

But, as McCarthy found, in A-ball the notion of the team barely exists.

“These friendships are very transient,” he says. “You’re sitting next to your chief competitors.”

It’s no coincidence that much of the book focuses on the other left-handed pitchers on the team — from top draft pick Joe Saunders to long-shot Heath Luther. They were McCarthy’s competition.

He was jealous of Saunders, who had abilities he would never have. Luther, though, was like him — average stuff, mediocre stats.

In “Odd Man Out,” McCarthy paints Luther as a villain. He recounts a conversation in which he says Luther admits to using performance enhancing drugs, and encourages another player to. He says Luther punched and berated him over a bottle of tobacco spit.

“I don’t think I portrayed anybody any better or worse than they really are,” McCarthy says. “It’s a tricky thing to talk about the guys you played with.”

•••

If there is a clubhouse code of silence, McCarthy isn’t the first player to break it. Jim Bouton pioneered the genre in 1970 with “Ball Four,” which had many of the same themes as “Odd Man Out.”: a perceived sense of anti-intellectualism, and intra-team rivalries overwhelming team unity. Jose Canseco named names from baseball’s steroid years in a book. Next week, Dodgers manager Joe Torre publishes a revealing book about his Yankees years – with reports suggesting future Yankees might have to sign non-disclosure agreements because of it.

“There are still people who perpetuate that code of silence,” says Aaron Wells, general manager of the Orem (formerly Provo) Angels affiliate. “But I never bought into that. It’s that philosophy of what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, but that’s not true for venereal diseases. You should always be accountable for your actions.”

But while those books are about famous players who lived in the public, McCarthy’s teammates were mostly unknowns. (No current major leaguers are accused of taking steroids.)

Luther had signed with the Angels after not being drafted at all. He and McCarthy were essentially competing for the same roster spot, if one existed at all. After Luther was cut, he worked for a beer distributor.

Luther, informed this month that a former teammate had written a book, responded by email: “Who’s the teammate?” Moments later, another email: “Nevermind, it’s McCarthy…. He was the only one smart enough to write it.”

He disputes much of what McCarthy wrote.

“Steroids? None of that crap is true. If it were, I would tell you. I don’t think I have to worry about my reputation for my chances of getting into the baseball Hall of Fame.”

“I don’t know if he is having fun telling fictional stories, or trying to make money. I really don’t care. … I’m 30, I have two children and a wife. I don’t have time for drama…. But it could tarnish (other guys), do damage to careers.”

•••

A week ago, McCarthy had just finished a 27-hour shift in a New York intensive care unit where he’s an intern. He spoke highly of the Angels organization. He explained that much of the negativism in the book reflects how he felt at that time, when he was new to the team and insecure. He praised Angels GM Tony Reagins and Provo manager Tom Kotchman for treating him like a man, not just a promising left arm to use or discard.

He won’t speculate on how the Angels will react, or whether Luther or Saunders or his friend Craig Breslow, will approve.

“I spend 99 percent of my time thinking about hospital-related stuff now,” he says. “I don’t spend much time thinking about what’s going to happen with this.”

He brushed off questions about whether it was a hard decision to write about that year. He didn’t feel torn about publishing private conversations, even dialogue between him and a roommate that concluded with “I don’t have to tell you this stays between you and me.”

“I wanted to write an unvarnished book of what it’s like to go through this really intense experience,” he says. “There are some people who just don’t like being written about, no matter what the subject…. I just tried to write a book for people who wonder.”

The book is dedicated to his teammates.

By AdirondackDave

January 30, 2009 7:51 PM | Link to this

Good to see Hudson is progressing on schedule. Jeez, imagine the rotation if/when he returns and pitches well. I’m getting stoked… Come on, Frank, reel in Ohman. Then, Abreu and we have a solid shot at the division title.

By BravesFanInRockies

January 30, 2009 7:53 PM | Link to this

Run Heap Run

Thanks for posting that. And congrats, Lew!

By Bubdylan

January 30, 2009 7:58 PM | Link to this

Nice work, Lew! Love the one of Bobby, especially.

By Run Heap Run

January 30, 2009 7:58 PM | Link to this

Someone make sure Lew sees it, lol I figure it will be several more days before his issue of chop talk makes it all the way to Vermont.

By LoyalBraves20+

January 30, 2009 7:59 PM | Link to this

It is beyond annoying to continually see people say we need to SIGN SWISHER.

First off Nick Swisher IS NOT a Free Agent. He plays for the Yankess and the Braves would have to TRADE for him

With that being said WHY would the Braves want to trade prospects for a player who hit .219 with 135ks in 153 games? Who also hit .205 and whiffed 1/3 of the time with runners in scoring position.

Oh and did I mention he is owed 21 million over the next 3 years!!!!!

But most importantly we have Jordan Schaefer and the THIRD BEST PROSPECT in the Minors, Jason Heyward! Both will be ready to play by 2010.

SO LETS ALL GET OFF THAT “TRADE FOR NICK SWISHER” BANDWAGON. Okay?

By wgcallahan

January 30, 2009 8:08 PM | Link to this

re sign andrew jones and tom glavin we need glavin leadership, After all the Braves were the reason for jones down fall, as good as jones was in 2005 the braves management refused to discuss any extention and Jones’s play in 2006 show just what the braves had done to his confidence. The Braves have shown over the past 10 years that they are not willing to retain any one that can be called a superstar that why we had such trouble signing players this year. I hope they can managed to stay out of last place but this team with out leadership can’t play 500 ball

By wgcallahan

January 30, 2009 8:08 PM | Link to this

re sign andrew jones and tom glavin we need glavin leadership, After all the Braves were the reason for jones down fall, as good as jones was in 2005 the braves management refused to discuss any extention and Jones’s play in 2006 show just what the braves had done to his confidence. The Braves have shown over the past 10 years that they are not willing to retain any one that can be called a superstar that why we had such trouble signing players this year. I hope they can managed to stay out of last place but this team with out leadership can’t play 500 ball

By LoyalBraves20+

January 30, 2009 8:29 PM | Link to this

^ | | | | |

Idiot.

By Random

January 30, 2009 8:30 PM | Link to this

Lew: “Whatever.”

Okay. Whatever.

Lew: “Again. Whatever.”

Yeah, dude — whatever. (???)

Lew: “You think that I and mostly everyone else here on the blog are idiots anyway.”

No — that simply is not true. It is indeed false.

And I’ll thank you, sir, not to put your words into my mouth.

Speak them yourself, and stop projecting them onto me.

By LoyalBraves20+

January 30, 2009 8:31 PM | Link to this

No, but seriously why do the Braves need Glavine for leadership?

Bobby Cox, Chipper Jones, Derek Lowe, and Brian McCann have plenty of that.

If A. Jones got his fragile little feelings hurt because the Braves didn’t want to discuss an extension with him then that is all the more reason to NOT sign him.

By GTguy84

January 30, 2009 8:41 PM | Link to this

DOB - We are always talking about the Atl Braves starting rotation for 2009 on here. What about the possible starting rotation for the Gwinnett Braves if the ATL signs Glavine? Hanson, Morton, Reyes, Parr, and Redmond/Medlen/Campillo(ATL bullpen?)/Lerew. I would say that’s a pretty dang good rotation for a AAA teams.

By 74Dawg

January 30, 2009 8:51 PM | Link to this

DOB,re:your 12:29. ESPN has a well developed god complex. They need a laxative real bad. I seldom watch anymore except the actual sports programing. As far as their ‘commontaters’,I get more accurate stuff right here,plus more laughs. Cuban restaurants,it’s no dive,but the real Paella is pretty good. The one at Sydney Marcus and Piedmont Rd.

By BravesFan79

January 30, 2009 9:04 PM | Link to this

If the Braves dont start Hanson in the rotation from the beginning, instead of the end of summer, it will of been as big a mistake as when we choose Chris Woodcrap over Escobar at the start of 2007.
And could potentially cost us the playoffs….just like that terrible decision coming out of spring training in 2007 did.

The only way possible it would be a good thing is if in the long term….. it gave us more years before hes eligible for free agency.

By Random

January 30, 2009 9:17 PM | Link to this

Thanks, nolie — that book looks to be more interesting than Torre’s “tell-all”.

And also thanks to you brent a. — it’s seemed for a long time that most of the Boston sports media was in the pocket of the Sox FO. “”Access”” — *sigh.

By Cheyenne

January 30, 2009 9:36 PM | Link to this

NOLIE-I remember reading that quote from Landau in Arkansas and my buddies and I were asking each other who the heck is Bruce Springsteen. I eventually found out even in them thar sticks. Certainly in the top ten all time.

By Lew

January 30, 2009 9:42 PM | Link to this

Random-Yeah, you’ve NEVER called anyone an Idiot-at least not today. Don’t have to put words in your mouth-they spew forth continuously all on their own.

By LTBravesFan

January 30, 2009 9:44 PM | Link to this

BravesFan79 What are you going by on that prediction of Hanson and the Braves for this year? Yes, I think he is going to ve a great pitcher but he has yet to throw a pitch in the majors and you are saying that they won’t make the playoffs without Hanson? Lets not forget he wasnt on everyones radar until this past year and has never even pitched in AAA and he had control issues in the past (seem to get it put together last year); I’m not saying that Reyes is on the same level as Hanson but just think about this Reyes had a sub 2 ERA at AAA during his last signifcant tenure there (he was just tearing it up all together) and look what happen to him when he came up to the big (kinda like Hanson dominating minors but yet to prove himself in the Bigs) or look at Joey Devine just flew the the minors tearing it up and got to the big club and didnt do as hot (took a couple of years of experience. You just can’t hang playoff hopes on potential of a 22 year old.

I’m not saying he couldnt help them to the playoffs, I’m just saying it is a crazy accessment to make when you say they won’t make the playoffs unless they have Hanson in the rotation. I hiope he is in the Braves rotation at some point and we get to see him in the playoffs.

By Cameron in NC

January 30, 2009 9:45 PM | Link to this

Anyone, What is the best website to play basebal fantasy where you pay money to gt players and where you can win prizes and money and such?

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

January 30, 2009 9:46 PM | Link to this

Run, Heap, Run!—

I got my ChopTalk yesterday! I did post a thing about it last night, but thanks for the repost. Mine was posted at that time that doesn’t get much attention. (And it was worded weird. Sorry about that.)

Congrats, Lew! Ya did us proud! ; )

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

January 30, 2009 9:49 PM | Link to this

Bubdylan—

Yeah, that drawing of Bobby is amazing.

By Random

January 30, 2009 9:52 PM | Link to this

Ed Glennon: “By the way I know that Andruw hit one home run in Atlanta. How many home runs did Kotchman hit in Atlanta? - if anyone knows let me know.”

Looks to me like he hit 1 HR in Atlanta (against Philadelphia), 2 HRs in Philadelphia (1 for Atlanta and 1 for Anaheim) and 1 HR against Atlanta (in Anaheim).

That is to say, “one”. Out of fourteen total in 2008. Out of two for Atlanta.

By Lew

January 30, 2009 9:53 PM | Link to this

Run Heap Run-Indeed, thanks. I haven’t even received my copy of Chop Talk yet, so that link is the first I’ve seen it. I appreciate it.

By Poorbrave

January 30, 2009 9:54 PM | Link to this

Joe Torre is on Larry King . He just said he kept playing A. Jones till he realized he (AJ) had lost it. He also said he wanted Manny back. All baseball fans would find it very interesting. Got to get the book.

By Lew

January 30, 2009 9:54 PM | Link to this

McFann-We talked about you during the interview. Too bad she didn’t use it in the article.

By bravesfan54

January 30, 2009 9:58 PM | Link to this

To Lew: at 7:51, and for the blog forever! (I WANT A WURLITZER, I ADMIT!)

Consider this my ‘95 Theses’, and forgive the mixed metaphors and historical contexts,(and…ok.. put the kids and blog idiots to bed, if you must).

Free at last! Free at last! My God, I am free at last…I waited 668 posts (MOL) to hear the voice of reason, and I much appreciate it, Lew. As my moniker implies, I have a few seasons under my belt, and regret that I can’t call myself Bravesfan53, the year the Braves moved to the city of my birth (as in Milwaukee,Braves), but I wasn’t a fan until I moved to Columbus, Georgia in 1954,

For context, I am a Southern boy (by heritage, and really and truly proud of it), who was emotionally and socially blown away by ‘Jim Crow’, which I hated, having seen and attended ‘colored nights’ at Columbus’ “Golden Stadium” on Victory Drive (see Fort Benning), but the baseball tradition I enjoyed spawned the hundreds of future major leaguers (whose careers I followed in the the lower ranges of the sport- the South Atlantic League moved between being a minor league “D” league to an “A” league. (I saw Henry Aaron play as a member of the 1953 Jacksonville Tars in 1953.)

…but to fast-forward through Lew Burdette, Red Shoendienst, Stan Musial, Eddie Mathews (I had his Boston Braves’ baseballcard, along with those of Ebba St Clair and Ernie Johnston and a catching prospect, bonus baby, who never panned out named Jack Parks), Warren Spahn, Billy Bruton, Felix Millan, Rico Carty and a thousand others, I can’t abide a Manny…just can’t do it!

Did I say, I can’t handle a Manny Ramirez as a member into my hallowed 54 year love affair with the Braves? Anybody want me to apologize for this? L(Me, who saw the St. Louis Browns play when I lived in St. Louis and took the Grand Avenue trolly out to the old Sportsman’s Park and who can still find the plaque just three blocks off of Broad St, in Philly where old Connie Mack stood (hey, look it up, I challenge you, there used to be a hump in the outfield where the train tracks ran - to this day - you can follow those tracks through the vacant lot…look it up, Google it! Do it!

Lew, you called it right, brother!…and I endorse your views. From this old guy, I offer my “props”.

I do follow the stats and appreciate most of the opinions on the relative merits of Nady, Abreu, Swisher, etc., and admit that I don’t contribute stats (real or imagined), but when I erupt against bloggers who advocate signing Barry Bonds (ok, last year), or Manny Ramirize, I am at a unable to restrain myself.

Did I say, “unable to restrain myself”? Am I arrorant in saying that this is a franchise with an UNBROKEN history going back to 1876. (Don’t miss it, folks, that the first year of operation is EIGHTEEN SEVENTY-SIX!) They have earned the right to reject a Barry Bonds, a Manny Ramirez as unworthy. Do the ignorant feel a right to dictate the spending of those owners who purchased and owned 133 years of history. How dare you demand that a man who refused to suit up for his employers be paid an obscene salary to play for a team I have respected for going on 55 years!

These are are my 95 Theses, this is the Wuterburg Cathedral of blogs, and I am a Catholic!

Famously, when King Henry was opposed by his Catholic Archbishop, Thomas a’ Becket, an authentic history supports his reported rage: “…is there no man in my kingdom to rid me of this meddlesome priest?”. The stone where the knights who took up his challenege is revered to this day by Anglicans and Catholic Christians of England.

On a very much reduced historical scale, where souls and seasons are not measured by martyrs, even Johnny Cash (a Protestant whom this Catholic would easily find worthy of Sainthood!)- test me, on his miracles!), I will argue, not for sainthood, not for protestanism, nor in favor of catholic, orthodox, Christianity, but I will celebrate - on a baseball blog no less, “Losing My Religion”, and I affirm my belief that in the nature of blogs, Lucinda Willims, REM, the Boss, Bruce Springsteen, U2, Jenny Lewis, Pink Floyd, Johnny Horton, and Marty Robbins, are far and away better absorbed than the “sound and the fury” of those bloggers who are “signifying nothing”.

That’s my story and I am sticking to it!

Hail and Amen!

By Bubdylan

January 30, 2009 10:03 PM | Link to this

McFann, yeah, lots of Bobby’s personality in it. I envy visual artists. I can’t draw at ALL. In my Biology class right now, we’re having to draw what we see under the microscope. All mine look like the same plate of spaghetti.

By f.n. hale

January 30, 2009 10:03 PM | Link to this

“Brock (Idaho Falls, Id): So Pujols is lobbying to have the Cardinals offer Manny a contract. Now this is a long shot, no scratch that, a looooooooooong shot, but would that be the greatest 3-4 hitter combo in history?”

I realize this wasn’t a quote from someone here, but I had to mention there were a couple of guys played a few years back named Ruth and Gehrig that were reportedly pretty good.

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

January 30, 2009 10:06 PM | Link to this

Lew—

Wow! Thanks for the mention! Dang, Patty snubbed me! ; ) Oh well, I still can’t wait to show this article off to everybody.

Just finished a colored-pencil drawing of a Blue and Gold Macaw. I dare-say it’s the best work I’ve ever done. But I can’t take full credit—it was a step-by-step thing in the book I got for Christmas, and I traced the outline. But obviously I colored it myself, following the instructions.

Night, all!

By Random

January 30, 2009 10:08 PM | Link to this

Realit: “Kelly Johnson and Tommy Hanson for Rick Ankiel (one year from free agency; Boras client) and Adam Kennedy (can’t hit) is the worst for-the-Braves trade I’ve ever seen suggested here… . Usually the dumb, never-happening trades suggested here are bad for the other team. Fantasy trades like Prado for Ludwick or Kelly Johnson for Tim Lincecum are dumb sure, but they at least favor the home-town team. Johnson and Hanson for Ankiel and Kennedy? Seriously?!”

That trade was proposed by 67cards, whose home-town is St Louis. (And who was good-naturedly ripped at 7:51 AM CST this morning.)

So your working hypothesis about dumb, never-happening trades is still valid.

8-)

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

January 30, 2009 10:08 PM | Link to this

Bubdylan—

Oh yeah, a lot of personality.

I envy people who cann draw people. Mine look hideous.

“All mine look like the same plate of spaghetti.”

Aw…Don’t know that I could draw those, either.

Night, all! (again)

By Run Heap Run

January 30, 2009 10:09 PM | Link to this

Hey Lew…glad you got to see it early.! You are very talented btw…I’ve always wished I could draw or paint.

My son can draw amazingly well but he’s not really interested in it. I had all the things he drew in art class framed and hanging around my house..hopefully when he’s older he’ll get into it more. He also plays guitar and writes. I have no idea where he got his artistic streak from but boy does he have one.

By cabravesfan

January 30, 2009 10:17 PM | Link to this

*Lew

Meant to comment on the article in ChopTalk earlier…Your work is beautiful! I, too, am envious of anyone that can create like you can…I have a hard time drawing a straight line with a ruler:) I was very impressed with the artwork in the pictures- I know you have a website but I do not have it written down anywhere - any chance I can get that from you?

By f.n. hale

January 30, 2009 10:22 PM | Link to this

bravesfan54

Holy Moley, dude! You must have been holding all that in for a long time. Feel better? Good post, but it really isn’t healthy for a guy your (our) age to hold all that in.

Lew

Great job, congrats.

By Random

January 30, 2009 10:33 PM | Link to this

Lew: “Yeah, you’ve NEVER called anyone an Idiot-at least not today.”

No more often than I’ve applied the same term to myself.

Lew: “Don’t have to put words in your mouth-they spew forth continuously all on their own.”

There you go — that’s all I’m saying.

So let me re-emphasize — I‘ll tell you what I think; don’t need you to tell me what I think.

Got it?

By jbutler

January 30, 2009 10:59 PM | Link to this

DOB I think you’re being a little harsh on our Canuck friend comparing the Boss to little ‘ol Bryan Adams. I mean- isn’t there an American artist who so admired him he goes by “Ryan Adams”? Plus - can’t you see him jamming out “Heaven”, “Everything I do for You” and Summer of 69 at the R&R Hall of Fame in a few years? I’m not sure if that idea is more frightening than me knowing all those songs. Yikes.

By Dadgum

January 30, 2009 11:02 PM | Link to this

When Led Zeppelin 1 is not on somebody’s top 10 albums of all time I have to seriously stop and wonder about humanity. Seriously, of all things holy.

Whoever posted that 52nd Street by Joel was in their top 10. Phenomenal album. Cool and very underrated. Love Midnight Oil 10-9-8. Not in my top 10 but very good. Don’t have time to put it together right now but yeah, Zep 1 is #1 for me. Always and forever.

RichBrave and Gil…we have to do a beer in Richmond and talk Braves, Music, whatever. I’ll buy the first round.

Rock on….Good Times Bad Times

By chrisklob

January 30, 2009 11:05 PM | Link to this

Lew, congratulations on the feature in Chop Talk! That is outstanding. I still enjoy the drawing that you sent me of Seth. It hangs in his room and eventually I plan on asking him to sign it.

cabravesfan Lew’s website is www.lewhartman.com

By NCBravesFan

January 30, 2009 11:05 PM | Link to this

brent a re: Bill Simmons commenting on Manny. I like his writing style overall, but this is the same guy who picked the Hawks to be one of the worst teams in the NBA East this year, and picked Josh Smith to be the “Biggest Cancer” on any team in the League in 2008-2009.

For what it’s worth.

By Lew

January 30, 2009 11:24 PM | Link to this

Everyone-I appreciate the kind words. Hope my copy is at the Post Office in the morning. Hope i can talk them into giving me a few extra copies-can’t get Chop Talk on the news stands up here.

Cabravesfan-It’s LewHartman.Com

McFann-No tracing until you can do it freehand!!! Tracing is a time saving device if you already know what you’re doing. If you could draw Orca, a Macaw is no big deal. Feathers are easier to draw than fur is.

BravesFan54-email me- lewhartman@comcast.net and include your real name and address. Maybe I can find you a sketch or something-might have a rough sketch I did practicing drawing Hank Aaron. Anyone who remembers that Old Stadium at 21st and Lehigh in Philly can’t be all that bad. Saw my first ML games there in the early 60’s. Saw Hank knock the Phillies around on a regular basis-Ernie Banks and Willie Mays, too. I saw Johnny Callison hit three in a row out and the Phillies still lost the 7th of those famous 10 losses in 64-Hank and Torre homered for the Braves and beat them.

By Where Is The Viagra

January 30, 2009 11:26 PM | Link to this

I’m 65 and have never posted before. Some very well thought out analysis. Very thought provoking. My ony question would be, it’s 11:30 on a Friday night, are we still doing the girl friend thing?? I got married at 30. Even if there had been an internet 35 years ago, I doubt I would have been this worried about Rico Carty, Ralph Garr and Earl Williams. Boys, Go out!!

I come by once a night to check things out. Just realized that many here appear to NEVER check out anything else. I would have loved to have my daughter date some of you when she was in college. My wife and I would have rested easier.

By N Nine (eta65)

January 30, 2009 11:33 PM | Link to this

Lew,Lew,LEW

By Virginia Brave

January 30, 2009 11:43 PM | Link to this

DOB Thanks for all of your work—love the blogs. One consideration for the stats you are quoting on OFs: sample size. We shouldn’t make decisions on Nady based on one year’s numbers. Braves should take advantage of the market and sign a FA for one year rather than give up a prospect, esp. for Nady who will walk after one year.

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2009 11:45 PM | Link to this

Bravesfan54: Great post….

74Dawg, another one added to my list. And that’s not far from my house, either. Thanks, bro….

Run Heap Run: thanks for posting that. Lew, fine job….

Just back from seeing a very good band tonight, Jackson County Line, at Eddie’s Attic. Its a seven-piece that sounds a little Cowboy Junkies, little Blue Rodeo, etc. At various times a cello, mandolin and trumpet accompanied the two guitars, bass and drums, and the dude lead singer is outstanding (so is the woman backup singer). They’re from down here, have one album out….

Home in time to see a special showing on Letterman of Bill Hicks’ fabled monologue that got cut from the show more than 15 years ago. Hicks’ mom is going to be on the show tonight when Letterman shows it. Should be interesting.

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2009 11:51 PM | Link to this

Oh, and the Gaslight Anthem is also gonna rock this show. Good young band with lot of early-Springsteen influence.

By Robards

January 31, 2009 12:05 AM | Link to this

Regarding the Nick Cage post last night: I suspect he needed to be Nicholas Coppola to break into the business. See, for example, the credits to Fast Times at Ridgemont Cage. Once he had a few roles under his belt, it was okay to be Nick Cage. No nepotism or anything.

By Robards

January 31, 2009 12:20 AM | Link to this

Obviously, I meant “Fast Times at Ridgemont High,” not “Fast Times at Ridgemont Cage.”

By Lew

January 31, 2009 12:26 AM | Link to this

DOB-Thanks, but it wouldn’t have been possible without some extra effort on yours and Carroll’s parts. It’s appreciated.

By uga-brave

January 31, 2009 12:51 AM | Link to this

lew,

if you get a chance please post a link to the chop talk thing.

everyone seems to like it, i am sure all the other denizens would also enjoy it.

congrats my man.

By uga-brave

January 31, 2009 1:04 AM | Link to this

DOB,

am i the only one that misses rick reily’s last page on S.I.

no matter what, that was the first thing i read every week.

they have replaced him with a collection of wanna be’s.

always thought he had a unique talent.

DOB, speaking of the plimsouls i was always a fan of the oldest story.

i would of thought you would of been a fan of ALMOST FAMOUS.

somehow i think you and cameron crowe would have a lot to talk about.

By Wayne in Utah

January 31, 2009 2:01 AM | Link to this

Been gone for a week with very little to check in on the blog. I see next to nothing has changed with the Braves.

Random In case you checke this, I gotta say I think your Babe Ruth/Manny comparison is way off the mark. Not going to get into any real point by point discussion on it, but things were a heckuva lot different back then than now. Manny is such a liability, nobody wants to commit to him. Granted somebody will, but his attitude is the primary reason he is not signed now.

Just think, team A eventually signs him for a very fair contract of 2 years for 45-50 million, with some sort of option for the 3rd year. A half a year into the season, he starts thinking he is not appreciated by his new team.

Babe Ruth was colorful and arrogant, but to try to put him into the same category as Manny is just not right.

I hope we ink Ohman soon.

Also, I really think the Braves are waiting for the market on OF’ers to get even more dramatic.

Later……

By winterville

January 31, 2009 3:01 AM | Link to this

uga-brave

You asked the other day about how my interview went and I forgot to respond. It was an insurance company called Liberty National and it was a straight up sales job. I got the job but I didn’t take it. I’m not knocking anyone who is in sales but this just didn’t feel right. I went to the orientation to make sure I didn’t want to do it and the guy doing the presentation was an absolute sleezebag. I’m not quite ready to do that yet. I’ll keep looking and keep my head up but at this time, I need something more than just commissions. Gotta have something steady.

By uga-brave

January 31, 2009 3:24 AM | Link to this

winterville,

you said you had a degree in risk management right?

if you do hold out. there will plenty of jobs.

dont settle for peddling life, it is rough right now, no doubt.

that is a good degree.

the university of georgia has one of the best risk managements programs in the south.

chin up.

at some point you will have to get your variable annuity license.

just make sure it is from the right firm.

go dawgs.

By Coach (Skip and Pete will be missed)

January 31, 2009 3:24 AM | Link to this

Bravesfan54, no worries mate, Manny has little choice in returning to the Dodgers. By the way, it’s Golden Park and the outfield walls are brick, covered in ivy just like Wrigley field, or they used to be. From what I’m told it’s all advertising on the walls today.

I have been keeping up with the local news in Columbus and it’s tragic to hear that the old ball park might sit empty this year, as the Catfish have moved on. Eighty-three years of baseball on the banks of the Chattahoochee River is a tradition that the city fathers cannot allow to end.

Organized semi-pro baseball has been a part of the Columbus sports scene since 1885. In 1925, Columbus built historic Golden Park as their new mecca of baseball. It was renovated in 1955 and again in 1994 to host the 1996 Women’s Olympic softball tournament. 1968 is the only year that some type of professional baseball has not been played in Columbus from 1926 to 2008.

By TommyP

January 31, 2009 5:39 AM | Link to this

Where is the Viagra: Priceless. One of the funniest posts in awhile.

A co-worker of mine was talking ‘bout the Pujols/Manny combo and mentioned Ruth/Gehrig. I hope he does go to St.Louis….would love to watch that combo. I don’t wanna see Manny in LA ‘cause I miss a lot of their games.

Mike Gonzales? CAREER YEAR in 2009. Mark it down.

Tim Hudson? Folks, don’t count on much from him this year and stop saying how his return in 2010 will make our rotation one of the best. He won’t be the same….that first year back is a year of getting re-acclimated.

Love the O’s making a small deal for Rich Hill. Nice gamble on their part.

By GermanBravesFan

January 31, 2009 5:49 AM | Link to this

Who is Skip Bayless?

By Lew

January 31, 2009 8:08 AM | Link to this

UGABrave-Run Heap Run posted a link at 7:412 last night.

By Tech Man in Dawg Country

January 31, 2009 8:36 AM | Link to this

Dave, of all the comments on this blog, yours below, while hidden in the middle, with little if any comments following, was really amazing:

*After the latest Barry Bonds developments today, I got to thinking how remarkable it is that baseball’s all-time hits leader (Pete Rose), its all-time home run leader (Barry Bonds) and the player (Mark McGwire) who broke what was the most-famous single-season record in sports, all are probably never going to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Not to mention Roger Clemens, who was regarded by many as the greatest pitcher in several decades.*

That really is hard to believe. I really wish Smoltz, Glavine, and Maddux had all retired the same year so they could go into the hall of fame together. I have never been, would love to go, and would definitely go to that induction ceremony. Any chance of bringing back Maddux for one fairwell appearance this year so he could officially retire as a Brave? It would sell out …

Wow. Just think about that.

By Savannah Guy

January 31, 2009 9:00 AM | Link to this

Lew, congratulations on the article in Chop Talk. Good stuff.

As you know, we share a great admiration and appreciation for Hank Aaron. All of us that feel the same way and want to say “thanks to Hank” for the memories and for the way he played the game are grateful that you’re painting his portrait and collecting fan letters to present to him this summer. It’ll be a great tribute.

You deserve our thanks for doing that. Please keep us posted.

By Savannah Guy

January 31, 2009 9:10 AM | Link to this

“Any chance of bringing back Maddux for one fairwell appearance this year so he could officially retire as a Brave?”

Tech Man - Not sure if that’s possible or if Maddux would want to push his induction back another year, but it’s a cool idea. If Mad Dog did that, he’d make an awful lot of Braves fans happy. By extending his year into 09, perhaps he could then become eligible to join the HOF at the same time as Glav and Smoltzy… that is, if they decide to retire after this season.

By TA

January 31, 2009 9:17 AM | Link to this

Just for the record, Pete Buck is not a baseball fan. But he’s never turned down the offer to play in a band - even one named The Baseball Project. Mike Mills on the other hand… is a big ole baseball dork.

By Savannah Guy

January 31, 2009 9:25 AM | Link to this

Rose, Bonds, McGuire, Clemens… and Shoeless Joe.

At some point they will all get in. Maybe with an asterisk, but in. Shoeless should be in now and Rose should get in very soon.

After a longer period, the “alleged” steroid boys will be inducted by a more forgiving group of voters. My reasoning is, like them or not, Bonds, McGuire and Clemens had good enough careers before creams and injections to make the HOF. The HOF should adjust their career numbers down accordingly and add a big fat asterisk. If they hadn’t excelled before PED’s, none would ever have a slight chance for HOF.

By Savannah Guy

January 31, 2009 9:29 AM | Link to this

Meant to add: with the possible exception of McGuire…

By Steve from OH

January 31, 2009 10:12 AM | Link to this

Lew, congratulations dude. You earned it.

By David O'Brien

January 31, 2009 10:16 AM | Link to this

uga-brave, yes on Almost Famous. Should’ve put that on my (long) list. Really do like that movie, particularly the director’s cut version with the extras on DVD. The plane-going-down scene is one of the funniest in any movie. Love that scene.

By David O'Brien

January 31, 2009 10:21 AM | Link to this

TA, I can concur that Mills is certainly the biggest baseball fan of R.E.M. (he’s a big Braves fan and has sung the national anthem at least once or twice at games). I’m friends with an S.I. writer who knows Mills well, and he told me that he follow the team religiously, reading the boxscores every morning on the road, etc.

But how do you know Buck’s not a baseball fan? Not saying you’re incorrect, just wondering how you know (and I do know you’re right about him wanting to play music all the time, read that he’s an insomniac and doesn’t like the down time between recording and tours, etc.) Something tells me you’re probably a bud of his or know some folks who are. Am I right?

By joe fan

January 31, 2009 10:39 AM | Link to this

two other very good Canadian bands: The New Pornographers and The Matthew Good Band

And someone above mentioned the The Gwinnett Braves rotation. Don’t forget that there is a Sinlge A team 2 hours to the north whose rotation could include for a few rehab starts by one John Smoltz. That team is the Greenville Drive.

By Frank

January 31, 2009 10:50 AM | Link to this

DOB,

Any word on Glavine re-signing, etc?

And for all of those who are Abreu fans….I would much rather Dunn than him.

I’d rather have Dye over Dunn…but unfortunately, that probably isn’t going to happen.

By mitchie-san

January 31, 2009 10:55 AM | Link to this

LEW I have to say that I read 85%-90% of all posts here on the ole blog. Out of all of them I make sure I read all of the ones that you write. You always make sense and can back up anything you say. Also, the art that you create is wonderful and solidifies you as a top tier Braves fan.

Keep up the good work, both here and with your drawings.

By Frank

January 31, 2009 10:57 AM | Link to this

GermanBravesFan

Skip Bayless is a sports writer, etc who’s on ESPN’s morning show First Take which was formerly Cold Pizza.

By Dadgum

January 31, 2009 11:00 AM | Link to this

Skip Bayless was a sportswriter for the Dallas/Ft.Worth newspaper when I lived in Dallas back in the 80’s. The man is somewhat polarizing if that is the word I am looking for. His views for the most part are in the minority which at times makes him come across as clueless. Nevertheless his views are needed and respected. It has been said that if everyone is thinking alike then someone isn’t thinking.

On his assumption that Tiger isn’t the greatest golfer compared to other generations, I will say that first you simply can’t accurately compare generations. Arguably you can but nothing definitive.

If you go by majors won or projected to win, I will say how many events were entered. How many were in the field? Where were they played? What was the stroke average?

To level the playing field I am going to say that if you put Jones, Hogan, Nelson, Snead, Hagen, Nicklaus, Watson, et al in the same generation today with the advanced equipment and workout regimens they would all still be great players.

Having said that put them back into their generations and the main criteria I am going to use to determine greatest player ever is to look at how dominant each was against their peers. What was their wins to events entered ratio. That has to be IMO the deciding factor.

Tiger Woods is simply off the charts. What will his final ratio be? Who knows. He probably will win somewhere under 25 majors. I’ll say 21. The arguments are endless. Bobby Jones “retired” from competitive golf at age 30. Nicklaus won his last major at age 46 at The Masters (his 6th) which Jones co-founded but never played in. What conversations today would we be having had Jones played pro and competitively well past the age of 30. What would be the benchmark for majors?

The Majors in ‘30 were the British Open & Am and US Open and Am. There wasn’t the lure back then to turn pro as there is today. Jones had accomplished all he could and a lucrative law practice awaited. I will contend that when Tiger hangs up the clubs he will be considered the best to ever play by any measure. Besting Bobby Jones.

Somebody may beat Tiger one day but very doubtful in our lifetimes. Of one thing I am sure, nobody will beat Nelson’s 11 tour wins in a row. Tiger you say, he fell 5 wins short.

Rock on…..ya’ll think about it.

By richbrave

January 31, 2009 11:03 AM | Link to this

I wonder if WIL OHMAN has secured any solid offers outside the BRAVES. As the off-season winds down and the OHMAN offer goes stale over on the contract table, I gotta’ believe FW is playing brinksmanship with the lefty and the general bull-pen market. I don’t think the offer from last year will be re-negotiated. I feel LOGAN and O’FLAHERTY are both leverage and a hedge against the possibility that some club tops the BRAVES offer for the lefty reliefer. I say a bird-in-hand is worth the two in the bush WREN has scared up. After all, a wren is a bird and not a bird-dog, no——oui? SIGN OHMAN.

By David O'Brien

January 31, 2009 11:06 AM | Link to this

Hey, if you guys want to read the full version of the camp story I sent yesterday (for some reason it got cut online as well as in print today), here it is, with the quotes from Gonzo, Hanson and Hudson that got cut:

By DAVID O’BRIEN dobrien@ajc.com

Bobby Cox walked without pain Friday morning on recently refurbished artificial knees. But the Braves manager was more excited talking another surgically repaired and fully recovered member of the organization, closer Mike Gonzalez.

After missing more than 12 months recovering from ligament-transplant elbow surgery, Gonzalez rejoined the team in June. He pitched in 36 games, converted 14 of 16 saves, and had 44 strikeouts in 33-2/3 innings, but had some typical inconsistency pitchers face after surgery.

“You can only imagine what it’s going to be like after a full offseason of rest,” Cox said of the left-hander, one of six pitchers who participated in the first day of the Braves’ voluntary early pitching camp Friday at Turner Field. “He’s going to be dominant this year.”

Top prospect Tommy Hanson was at camp along with Tim Hudson, who’ll miss most of the 2009 season after elbow surgery; relievers Blaine Boyer and Gonzalez; newcomers Stephen Marek and lefty Eric O’Flaherty; and Anthony Lerew.

Reserve Clint Sammons was the lone catcher on Day 1 of the camp, run by pitching coach Roger McDowell. Seated behind netting around the indoor pitching mounds was Cox, who had more scars but less discomfort after worn pieces of his artificial knees were replaced in October.

“I got new parts,” the 67-year-old manager said, smiling.

Hudson: The veteran right-hander is five months into rehab following August “Tommy John” surgery, which usually takes 12 months or recovery before a pitcher can return to the majors. Hudson hopes to make his first post-surgery throws from a mound next week.

He plans to be at all of spring training and travel with the Braves when the season begins.

“They tell me it’s a 12-month process, and from what I’m told the ones who stray from that are usually the ones that have problems,” he said. “I don’t want to have any problems. I’m not 25 anymore.”

He’s 33, but said with his reconstructed elbow he might pitch “another seven or eight years.” The Braves hold a $12 million option on his contract in 2010.

“I’m hoping they like what they see enough to pick it up,” said Hudson, who had 54 wins in nearly four seasons for Atlanta before surgery. “I feel good about [returning]. I feel like I’ll be ready to help us win. There’s no other place I’d rather be.

“But then, this is a business. And we’ve got some good arms around here.”

Gonzalez:He said he enjoyed his first “normal” offseason in three years. He’s ready to show the Braves and their fans what he can do with a sound arm.

“Atlanta hasn’t had a chance to see me at 100 percent,” said Gonzalez, who concedes he never was entirely healthy after an elbow strain in 2006 with Pittsburgh. He converted all 24 save opportunities that year, then was traded.

An MRI before the trade showed no structural damage, and Gonzalez pitched well early in 2007 with the Braves before the ligament snapped.

When he returned, with an arm still in the re-strengthening stage, he had to pitch differently, not just overpower hitters with fastballs. He’s got his arm strength back, and feels better equipped with an improved changeup and approach.

Cox intends to use Gonzalez as his regular closer and said he could work three consecutive days.

“I know when I’m healthy, I’m going to succeed in any position they put me in,” Gonzalez said. “I feel like I have a new arm, like I’m 20 years old again.”

Hanson: Cox heard rave reviews from Braves officials and from scouts and officials with other teams, but until Friday the manager hadn’t seen the 22-year-old phenom throw.

“Good-looking kid,” Cox said after watching him. “He’s had a lot of success, and there’s no reason to think it’s not going to continue - whether he makes the team now or the middle of the season.”

Hanson said he doesn’t feel added pressure after an overwhelming 2008 performance vaulted him to the top of prospect rankings and earned him a non-roster invitation to spring training.

“When it comes to baseball, I’m doing the same gig,” said the 6-foot-6 Californian. “You’ve still got to go out there and throw the ball.”

He went 5-0 with an 0.63 ERA in the Arizona Fall League, the first pitcher to win the MVP award in that league. He was 11-5 with a 2.41 ERA last season between Class A Myrtle Beach and Class AA Misssissippi, with 163 strikeouts in 138 innings.

None of the Braves’ four projected starters — incumbent Jair Jurrjens and newcomers Derek Lowe, Javier Vazquez and Kenshin Kawakami — were at camp Friday. Kawakami is working to secure his visa in Japan and hoped to arrive before camp ends next Friday.

Pitchers and catchers report to spring training Feb. 14 in Lake Buena Vista, Fla.

By Dadgum

January 31, 2009 11:15 AM | Link to this

As I refreshed the page I now have the gray left sidebar area bleeding into the blog type. Is this just me?

By TKO

January 31, 2009 11:28 AM | Link to this

Want to acquire an outfield bat - sign Glavine!

As a fan blogger we lack the inside information Frank Wren and his staff have, but as I watch and listen to recent Braves actions I become more convinced that the best way for us to pick up that quality outfielder we need is to sign Tom Glavine.

If Glavine is healthier than he has been in two years (and he has been adequate when able to pitch during that span) then he should provide a solid 5th slot starter with a one year contract. This is perfect for the Braves because in 2010 we should have 1-2 first quality proven arms available that we wont have this year (Hudson & Hanson). That being done that will leave the Braves with at least 4 potential starting pitchers (Campillo,Reyes,Morton,& Parr) available as part of a trade package. Now this might not make much sense today, but after Spring Training gets rolling it might make genius sense. Once the Braves get a good feeing of what they have going this year & a couple teams (through injury, age, etc.) discover that they need an additional pitcher to start the year the Braves would be in a great position to deal.

By Hardball19

January 31, 2009 11:30 AM | Link to this

winterville

Good for you…Liberty National tries to recruit everybody…to this day I still get spammed by them. Hold your head up, the market is not as bad as it would seem, especially if you are willing to intern…

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

January 31, 2009 11:35 AM | Link to this

Lew—

Yeah, I’m sorry. I felt kinda funny about tracing it. I have drawn quite a few birds freehand, though. It is a huge timesaver to trace, though, as you said. And feather are a bit easier than fur, though they have their own challenges. Long fur has got to be the hardest thing to draw—and I have trouble with fabric, too…getting the wrinkles to look right is very tricky.

By TexasBrave

January 31, 2009 11:37 AM | Link to this

Dadgum - No I see it too.

By TexasBrave

January 31, 2009 11:49 AM | Link to this

DOB - with all the praise and his recent success I am still hoping that Hanson starts the year out at AAA unless it is apparent that Glavine, Campillo, Morton, Parr or Reyes would not be able to give us quality innings in the 5th spot of the rotation. I know this is not the same situation but I look at it kind of like the Devine fiasco. Devine was also highly regarded, didn’t spend much time in the minors because he was so dominate and then was brought up only to fail and loose confidence in himself and from Bobby.

Hanson needs to spend some time down at AAA until absolutely needed.

By TexasBrave

January 31, 2009 11:57 AM | Link to this

TKO - good analysis but with one cravat. How much does Tommy sign for and how much will we have left to add that outfielder?

I think it all comes down to just how much money is left(which not many people actually know). Or if Liberty would be flexible enough to go a little over budget.

Like I said I think what you said could possible happen if a little thing like money doesn’t get in the way.

By bill

January 31, 2009 12:09 PM | Link to this

LOL. Just heard about Bruce Wal-Mart’s new album. What a phony.

Why am I not surprised?

Show me the money!! Rod Tidwell would be proud of you Mr. Springsteen.

By dogsbrekky

January 31, 2009 12:20 PM | Link to this

Dadgum

I have not played or watched golf in 20 years. I played every day (without miss) from the ages of 12-22… I have only ever seen Tiger once on the tv (last year’s US Open)…. I am a huge Nicklaus fan and think he had to beat far superior players to the competition today, HOWEVER… I have never seen a talent like Woods and how he won that championship on a shattered leg, outstanding, awesome and statistically he kills anyone at this stage of his career….. we will see if he can maintain form into his 40s but 21-25 majors is not unrealistic…. as for SKIP he is a MAJOR TOOL in any format…….

By Tomas

January 31, 2009 12:25 PM | Link to this

What about trading for Delmon Young. He’d be an OK fit to bat cleanup. He has a great arm(comparable to Frenchy’s), bats for a high average, and has 20-30 HR potential. IF the price is right he’d be a good fit. They want to trade him.

The twins need a SS, 3B, and relief pitchers. Obviously the Braves can’t trade any SS or 3B, but they do have some extra arms. How about trading Jo-jo Reyes and Manny Acosta or Blaine Boyer(preferably Boyer) for Delmon Young.

By Random

January 31, 2009 12:36 PM | Link to this

TexasBrave: “TKO - good analysis but with one cravat.”

You sure you didn’t mean one of them Western string ties? I hear they’re big in Texas.

Yer right, tho — everbody needs at least two neckties.

DOB—

Any insight into what Furman Bisher might have meant when he referred to Boone Logan as “a wit named Boone Logan, who came in the Javier Vasquez deal”?

How would you compare him, “wit”-wise, wit’ witty Ohman?

By mbatl

January 31, 2009 12:39 PM | Link to this

TexasBrave, I agree. Postponing Hanson’s arrival until at least mid-June would give us one extra year of control over his salary, in addition to the points you made.

In a perfect world, Hanson spends the entire season at AAA, pitching “just the right number” of innings to safely continue his development, and comfortably refining his command — maybe a September callup to Atlanta, to ready him for the playoffs (like Price last year with Tampa), and to prepare him to enter the rotation in 2010.

Of course, if he’s overpowering in ST, it may be hard to keep him off the roster… but hopefully we can get adequate performance (a 4.75 or so ERA would be just fine from #5) from one of the other guys in the 5th spot.

By Canadianbrave

January 31, 2009 12:40 PM | Link to this

Tomas: Ive been saying this for a couple of days now! I’m sure we could package up Prado for 3rd base. He doesn’t seem to be in the Braves long term plans anyway! And we could obviously throw in an arm or 2. Young’s power numbers may be down because he spent a good deal of last year with an ankle injury. The potential is there and is a lot closer than the young braves who may still be a year or two away!

By Lew

January 31, 2009 12:54 PM | Link to this

McFann-When you draw fur, remember that a sharp eraser is a helpful implement-removing highlights instead of drawing around them is easier and save lots of time.

Mitchie San-Thanks. Hope you’re enjoying that sun and warm weather. It’s cold up here and there’s about 3 feet of snow on the ground.

By Jim

January 31, 2009 12:54 PM | Link to this

Hinske has signed with Pirates. Reported $1.5MM with another $1MM of incentives.

Interesting thought on another website. Let’s say Dodgers are willing to pay Manny $20MM this year. Should be about accurate because they earlier offered him $25MM. Now, let’s say Manny gets petulant and Dodgers say, “screw him, let’s just take our $20MM and sign two out of three of Abreu, Dunn and Garrett Anderson.” For sure, at this point in the pre-season, a team can easily have two of those players for

If B’s sign Abreu, where does this leave Diaz? Abreu hits LHP and RHP about equally well, so you are not going to pinch hit Diaz for Abreu. Diaz can’t play CF. So starting OF of Abreu, Schafer or Anderson and Francoeur has no room for Diaz. Indeed, they may not be any room on team for him if club only carries 4 OFs + Norton. Or does Norton go, if they keep Diaz.

By TexasBrave

January 31, 2009 1:02 PM | Link to this

Of course, if he’s overpowering in ST, it may be hard to keep him off the roster… but hopefully we can get adequate performance (a 4.75 or so ERA would be just fine from #5) from one of the other guys in the 5th spot. mbatl

Even with a dominate performance in Spring Training I would be pretty leery of putting him on the roster just yet. Unless all those other possibilities just utterly falter during ST. I have to believe that Glavine, Campillo, Morton and perhaps even Parr could give you some quality innings and a low 4’s ERA. I would have to be absolutely convinced that not one of these guys are going to be able to do well before I keep Hanson.

By Bill M.

January 31, 2009 1:04 PM | Link to this

Tomas—- I agree, Delmon Young is the one. He young and alot of promise. I had rather have him than some of the older OF.

By Tomas

January 31, 2009 1:05 PM | Link to this

Canadianbrave, I agree, his ankle injury would explain his power loss, and loss of range in the outfield. And probably yes, they would have to trade Martin Prado, and two pitchers.

By mbatl

January 31, 2009 1:09 PM | Link to this

We don’t need Delmon Young!

He’d cost a ton in prospects, because of his “high ceiling.”

But the facts are, his power has completely disappeared since he reached the majors; he strikes out a lot, walks very little; plays sloppy defense; and has a bad attitude.

Hopefully (for him) he comes around, but the Braves are not looking for a project. They need a solid hitter to bridge the time gap (2009-2010) and the batting order gap (Chipper to McCann).

By TexasBrave

January 31, 2009 1:10 PM | Link to this

Random You sure you didn’t mean one of them Western string ties? I hear they’re big in Texas.

: ) I don’t know what I was thinking. We much prefer the bolo ties with a nice big clasp on it to match our belt buckles.

By dogsbrekky

January 31, 2009 1:12 PM | Link to this

Bill M and Tomas - Why of why did Tampa get rid of Delmon and now why do the Twins want to trade him ?

Both teams KEEP QUALITY youngsters..

Also his defence rated very poorly last year…

I agree he has potential but we have MANY young OF with “potential”

By Patrick

January 31, 2009 1:17 PM | Link to this

Well…it looks like we can kiss Ohman goodbye

The Phillies are interested in him.

www.mlbtraderumors.com

By Jim

January 31, 2009 1:26 PM | Link to this

Report from Winter Ball:

These figures are not against what we would describe as major league pitching, but they may be useful in seeing how some of our “prospects” are doing versus some players who seem to own a roster spot. All figures from VZ ball except Schafer.

Legend: BA/OPS; HR/RBI; ABs; SBs

Blanco: .349/.976; 2/22; 172; 6/10; D. Hernandez: .329/.920; 7/27; 155; 5/7 B. Canizares: .304/.746; 2/11; 115; 0/0 Prado: .284/.713; 2/20; 134; 0/0 Infante: .258/.693; 2/13; 163; 4/5 G. Hernandez: .216/.624; 1/11; 88; 6/9 Schafer (LMP): .276/.712; 1/9; 105; 9/10

What can we take from this? First, Blanco seems to be progressing in comparison with a couple of guys (MP and OF) who hit well in MLB last year. Second, how good is Diory Hernandez? Is he a replacement for OF or MP that would allow one of those players to be included in a trade - for Nady, for example? Third, what value does B. Canazeres have in a trade since he will never make present team (unless Kotchman were hurt, I guess). Fourth, G. Hernandez will spend another year or two in minors. Fifth, Blanco seems to be ahead of Schafer, at least this winter.

If B’s carry 12 pitchers, that leaves 13 position player spots: Mac, Ross, CK, KJ, YE, CJ, JF, Diaz plus 5 more: Free Agent Bat, Prado, Infante, Norton, Anderson. This leaves out Blanco, & D. Hernandez.

Question: whoever the “left outs” are, do they and a few extra pitchers (Parr, Redmund, Morton) have any trade value - for Nady. Dye would probably be too expensive, but of Nady, Dye and Abreu, Dye is by far the best hitter for this B’s team which is otherwise overloaded with LHHs.

By Kwesi Garvin

January 31, 2009 1:41 PM | Link to this

Dob, do we know the terms of the contract that Will Ohman has on the table? With the market for all players so depressed, why is he waiting to sign it? As bad as things have gone, it seems players would be willing to go ahead and sign. Its not like teams are going to get money and start showering players with it now. If it has not happened it will not happen.

By Random

January 31, 2009 1:45 PM | Link to this

Phillies Interested In Will Ohman

ESPN “Insider Only”

MLBTR: “According to ESPN.com’s Jerry Crasnick, the Phillies are interested in Will Ohman. They contacted his agent last week and will continue talks next week.”

By Random

January 31, 2009 1:57 PM | Link to this

TexasBrave: “: ) I don’t know what I was thinking. We much prefer the bolo ties with a nice big clasp on it to match our belt buckles.”

Exactly what I was picturing!

;->

Canadianbrave: “Ive been saying this for a couple of days now! I’m sure we could package up Prado for 3rd base. He doesn’t seem to be in the Braves long term plans anyway!”

Of course not — the Braves have a 3B signed all the way thru 2009.

By N Nine (eta64)

January 31, 2009 1:58 PM | Link to this

We will survive w/o Ohman, Glavine

We will not survive w/o a nice bat

The budget points to an OF pickup and maybe Glavine..That is all

No way Ohman comes back if someone gives that 2y-8MM he is seeking!

By Random

January 31, 2009 2:10 PM | Link to this

One of the comments to the MLBTR article about Ohman (linked above) refers to Ohman’s “4 million a year contractual demand”.

Don’t know the basis for the figure — perhaps from the ESPN Insider article.

Is anyone here an “Insider”?

By winterville

January 31, 2009 2:11 PM | Link to this

DOB and anybody else who was wondering about seeing the new movie Taken that came out yesterday about the retired man who’s daughter gets kidnapped in Paris, do yourselves a favor and go see it. That movie was so badazz it is ridiculous. It wasn’t like some of those Transporter movies where none of the scenes could have actually happened. Everything was realistic and Liem Neeson is an absolute beast in the movie. I would not steer you wrong. If you are looking for a great action movie with a strong enough plot this movie is perfect. Go see it. You will not be disappointed. Not a girly movie at all.

By chris r.

January 31, 2009 2:15 PM | Link to this

I thought we offered him that, at least, that is the impression I took from his comments. He said the Braves offer was very generous and they really showed him they were interested in having him back, by the offer the Braves gave him but he wanted to hear more offers before making a decision.

By Canadianbrave

January 31, 2009 2:21 PM | Link to this

Random:

You think the Braves are going to let Chipper go and slot Prado in at 3rd! Wow! that will really beef up their batting order!

By Steve from OH

January 31, 2009 2:22 PM | Link to this

Here’s a few notes on Jordan Schafer’s Winter Ball stint via Baseball America:

“The MPL may have been short on young prospects that typically grace the pages of BA, but Schafer was an exception. The Braves’ top prospect entering 2008 hit .276/.369/.343 in 105 at-bats. His line included four extra-base hits and nine RBIs, but he also flashed other tools in drawing 15 walks and stealing nine bags (in 10 attempts).

“Probably the best position player I saw,” said an American League scout that swung through the league twice this winter. “He just plays hard-nosed, plays with attitude. And he knows he’s a good player.”

In a season most notable for his 50-game suspension related to HGH, Schafer returned from the suspension at Double-A Mississippi and hit .269/.378/.471 with 10 home runs, 18 doubles, six triples and 51 RBIs. All of it came in 297 at-bats.

Unfortunately for Schafer, his winter ball time ended in mid-November after a pitch hit his right middle finger.”

By dogsbrekky

January 31, 2009 2:22 PM | Link to this

I saw 2 good movies last night

“Tell No-one” a classic French thriller, excellent

and “Milk” which has a great performance by Penn

I still think Mickey Rourke should win the Oscar (EASILY) for “The Wrestler”

By dogsbrekky

January 31, 2009 2:22 PM | Link to this

I saw 2 good movies last night

“Tell No-one” a classic French thriller, excellent

and “Milk” which has a great performance by Penn

I still think Mickey Rourke should win the Oscar (EASILY) for “The Wrestler”

By yanksrule007

January 31, 2009 2:25 PM | Link to this

sign dunn, abreu, ramirez, sheets, perez, cabraea trade swisher for some pithching prospects and we will be unstopable thats 5 rings in a row is what i predict im a die hard yanks fan i also think trade for lowe and santana unstopable i say UNSTOPABLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By David O'Brien

January 31, 2009 2:26 PM | Link to this

Random: Ohman and the other unsigned lefties are looking for contracts like those that were handed out to lefties the past couple of seasons, $3-4 mill per season in multi-year deals. Unfortunately for them, the market collapsed in this economy particularly hard on two groups — corner outfielders and lefty relievers, for whatever reason….

Winterville, I read good stuff about that movie. Trailer looked very good. Glad to hear it lived up to it. I’ll see that one soon, hopefully.

By David O'Brien

January 31, 2009 2:28 PM | Link to this

Random, Boone Logan was described to me as a typical lefty, a funny dude with a colorful personality. I haven’t met him yet, so I can’t tell you anything more. He wasn’t at the camp yesterday.

By David O'Brien

January 31, 2009 2:29 PM | Link to this

Dogsbrekky, “Tell No One” was outstanding, wasn’t it? Saw it about six months ago when it was on at the Plaza Theatre here in Atlanta. Really good, smart suspense flick.

And agreed on Penn in Milk — if Rourke doesn’t win it, Penn better. To me, both of those performances were about as good as it gets.

By David O'Brien

January 31, 2009 2:35 PM | Link to this

Kwesi: no one’s reported the figures of the offer to Ohman by the Braves. He’s not divulged them, and neither has anyone else….

Chris R: Ohman never characterized the Braves’ offer to him as “very generous.” He merely said it was an offer that showed they’re serious, not just a cursory offer. Then last week, he told me the offer was a good starting point, but that there’d been no negotiations since, no raising of the offer or any back-and-forth about what might get it done, etc.

By Jim

January 31, 2009 2:37 PM | Link to this

Re: D. Young, other than fact that he has had +1200 ABs in last two years and very few walks, that he does not hit LHP as well as Diaz - either for power or average - and that his range in OF is no greater than Diaz, why would B’s want to give up anything for him?

He’s played 1/2 of his ML career indoors, too.

By melliadis

January 31, 2009 2:37 PM | Link to this

Heard Dontrelle Willis (among other Tiger pitchers) is on the trade block. You think the Braves would take a flyer on him considering his age and recent (but not so recent) success? He’d probably be available for a mid-level prospect, but he could reap a large reward.

By Curious

January 31, 2009 2:39 PM | Link to this

Braves go 92-70. They contend the whole way. what is the attendance??

By David O'Brien

January 31, 2009 2:46 PM | Link to this

Joe Fan: Don’t forget Arcade Fire (to me, the best current Canadian band) and Broken Social Scene. And the Stills, and Feist. Many others, too.

But the point I was making earlier, I was just naming huge artists with major bodies of work, mostly singer-songwriters or bands (like The Band) with great songwriters, people you could legitimately compare to Springsteen. Not newer bands that have put out two or three albums.

By dogsbrekky

January 31, 2009 2:47 PM | Link to this

Going to see Che Part 1, tried to get in this week but it was sold out

A few 5 star reviews from folks up here in NYC…

winterville - “TAKEN” thanks I wanted to see it but the dickhead in the NY Post gave it only 1/2 star… may give it a go on your recommendation, how did the interview go ??

By FaninFaytown

January 31, 2009 2:55 PM | Link to this

Regarding “Taken”, I am far from a movie critic but I thoroughly enjoyed the movie last night, as well as Gran Torino last weekend.

By Tomas

January 31, 2009 2:55 PM | Link to this

dogsbrekky,

Bill M and Tomas - Why of why did Tampa get rid of Delmon and now why do the Twins want to trade him?

Both teams KEEP QUALITY youngsters..

Also his defence rated very poorly last year…

I agree he has potential but we have MANY young OF with “potential”

I have the perfect answer on why the Ray’s traded Young, his name is Matt Garza. He is a good young power pitcher, which tampa needed more than a bat. They also got Barlett on that deal.

Now the Twins want to trade Young, I figure it’s because of the emergence of Denard Spahn who is a great outfielder with great speed, and a good OBP. Twins have Denard Span, Carlos Gomez, Michael Cuddyer, Jason Kubel, and Delmon Young. They figure they could get some young talent in return for Young. The guy is only 24 years old

By nolie

January 31, 2009 2:57 PM | Link to this

DOB - with all the praise and his recent success I am still hoping that Hanson starts the year out at AAA unless it is apparent that Glavine, Campillo, Morton, TexasBrave

I’m thinking thats likely what they will do. Give him half a season at AAA if everybody else stays healthy that is. Season him some and let the clock wait long enough that no matter how well he pitches his first few years he won’t make the super17 and get arb a year earlier.

By Lou Vales

January 31, 2009 3:00 PM | Link to this

Dontraelle Willis would make Mike Hampton look like Steve Carlton. Dontrelle was physically abused by Trader Jack in his first 3 years. Tremendously high pitch counts ultimately took their toll. Resulted in diminished velocity and poor Willis tried to compensate by tweaking an already horrific delivery.

As Trader Jack sits up in Elon,NC doing whatever burnt out managers do, he should speculate on how he destroyed a fine young man’s career. He also messed up Braden Looper with just ONE appearance. In 03, I was there, Looper was brought in to protect a 1 run lead at home. I’m a pitch counter, and the lead was gone and he trailed by pitch 12. That idiot, McKeon, let him run up a 45 pitch count that inning while giving up 5 runs. Looper was never the same that year and he struggled the next year.

Jack is a smarmy mummy who before he leaves us should reach out to at least 2 pitchers who he really blanked.

David, Stanton, Dominguez, Morrison, Coughlin, Sanchez AND pitchers up the proverbial, HOW do they do this?? Imagine if they spent ANY money!

By dogsbrekky

January 31, 2009 3:07 PM | Link to this

Tomas ty was not aware of the Twins OF abundance

*Shake and bake boys !

By Canadianbrave

January 31, 2009 3:23 PM | Link to this

DOB does The Tragically Hip get any air time in Atlanta. Huge in Canada! 11 albums . Singer songwriter Gord Downie. Excellent early stuff “Road apples”, “Up to Here”. Check it out. Been around since about 1987.

By nolie

January 31, 2009 3:36 PM | Link to this

DOB and anybody else who was wondering about seeing the new movie Taken that came out yesterday about the retired man who’s daughter gets kidnapped in Paris, do yourselves a favor and go see it. That movie was so badazz it is ridiculous. Winter

I agree. I mentioned it last week as a pretty darned good flick. Glad to see someone else agree. Neeson in always good.

By Random

January 31, 2009 3:37 PM | Link to this

dogsbrekky—

It’s okay to be a two-fingered typist — just remember to use only one of them to post.

8-)

Canadianbrave: “You think the Braves are going to let Chipper go and slot Prado in at 3rd! Wow! that will really beef up their batting order!”

Hmmmmm — not exactly my point.

Just wondering how the Braves could convince another team that Prado was a viable option at 3B, when the Braves themselves don’t have any prospect in the pipeline to replace Chipper, who is in the last year of his contract.

Probably shoulda said all that the first time — sorry.

(My initial comment was, like yours above, an effort at sarcasm.)

By Canadianbrave

January 31, 2009 3:42 PM | Link to this

I don’t know about anybody else, but I’m not certain that I would want to be a prospect in the Braves system. It has to be taxing on these young pitchers and outfielders. Their psyche’s must take a beating. For years aspiring pitchers had to look up and say “How are we ever going to crack that rotation” and now outfielders and pitchers must have creeping doubts when the big club signs pitchers from all over the globe and looks for position players elseware. I hope Jordan Schafer doesn’t lose that confidence and cockiness. Do you think management is saying “we don’t think your good enough, Good enough yet, or you better damn well do your best if you want to play up here.” Is it coomon for teams to bring in old guys to bridge the gap, or is it more normal to have young guys performing at a level that the veterans are worried about there jobs. just thinking(or Rambling ) on the comment board!

By Mitch

January 31, 2009 3:43 PM | Link to this

Great blog as always, DOB.

Of the candidates you mentioned, I would have to say that if we could only afford two players, that we should probably sign Abreu and Glavine. While Abreu is 35, he hits for a high average, and can likely get us 20 to 30 homers, and 80 to 100 RBI’s. Plus, he can protect Jeff in the order, and give us a good 3-4-5 of Chipper, Mccann, and Abreu, followed by Jeff.

As for Glav, maybe nostoglia is speaking here, but, after what happened with Smoltz, I really hope we sign him. There seems to be no way you can offer him much. I’d say, a 2 to 3 million dollar deal, with incentives for innings pitched. At 43, with the kind of year he had last year, he should have to pitch to earn his money.

I would stay away from Andruw. He was bad before he left Atlanta, and horrible last season. That’s money wasted.

As you said, Dunn has awesome power, but his strikeouts scare me. Even though Abreu is older, he is a better hitter, for average, and to be on base.

Hopefully, Frank can make one or two more good moves to complete this team.

  Mitch

By winterville

January 31, 2009 3:44 PM | Link to this

dogsbrekky

I got the job but I turned it down after I found out more about the position. It was strictly commissions and the guy doing the orientation pretty much came out and said you have to be sleezy to do well at it. It was almost a 9 am to 9 pm job because the main time you sell your product was when everyone else is off work. I am going to keep looking and hopefully find something with a better guarantee rather than just incentives since this is a baseball blog.

By dogsbrekky

January 31, 2009 3:44 PM | Link to this

Random - yes good point, ty sir !

By dogsbrekky

January 31, 2009 3:44 PM | Link to this

Random - yes good point, ty sir !

By Canadianbrave

January 31, 2009 3:47 PM | Link to this

Random

Funny that a team with a history of good third basemen doesn’t seem to be grooming one…Is this a product of the confidence in free agency. i’ve wondered about this myself!!

By dogsbrekky

January 31, 2009 3:50 PM | Link to this

winterville

I am sorry to hear that.

Unfortunately, there is a LOT OF TRASH out there now and some of these “supposed employers” are looking to take advantage of people out of work.

It will be tough going but stick to your guns and good luck !

By Random

January 31, 2009 3:51 PM | Link to this

BravesFanInRockies: “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.”

R: “Thanks for the 2B/3B info. Yer right — I don’t. Gotta do some more diggin.”

Well, BFIR, I’m done diggin.

Bill James has posited “The Defensive Spectrum” in his 83 & 88 Baseball Abstracts.

To (over)simplify, each of the following positions requires more defensive talent than the one on its left:

DH/1B/LF/RF/3B/CF/2B/SS

Does that look/sound right to you?

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

January 31, 2009 3:56 PM | Link to this

Lew (Sorry I took so long to get back to you)—

Thanks for the tip! I’ll definitely keep that in mind. Gonna be drawing my first cat pretty soon (as soon as I get the photo).

Just finished burning some marshmallows in the backyard. Ah, man…good times.

By winterville

January 31, 2009 4:01 PM | Link to this

dogsbrekky

Thanks, I appreciate it. Like I said a few days ago, I already have a job but it’s part time and I am trying to start somewhere full time. My expenses haven’t gone up so I have some time to try and find something decent. It is definitely a tough market but hopefully I will get lucky and someone will let me prove I can do a job.

By dogsbrekky

January 31, 2009 4:12 PM | Link to this

wiinterville The only advice then, that I can give you, is, DO NOT GET MARRIED…

because then your expenses will go up a LOT..

Off to the movies and dinner, later boys

“Shake and Bake”

By Random

January 31, 2009 4:33 PM | Link to this

BP’s John Perrotto on an old friend of the Braves, Jimy Williams, who spent 1991–96 with the Braves as their third base coach:

Jimy Williams was one of the reasons why the Phillies won the World Series last season. As bench coach, Williams was manager Charlie Manuel’s primary sounding board, and some around the Phillies believe he was almost a co-manager. When the team did not offer Williams the contract he felt he deserved, he walked away in November. Pete Mackanin was hired to replace him.

While Mackanin is highly regarded and did a fine job in stints as an interim manager with the Pirates (2005) and Reds (2007), Williams is considered by some as one of the top tacticians in the game. “We wanted him back,” Phillies assistant GM Ruben Amaro Jr. said. “We asked him to come back. Frankly, we just couldn’t come to the same place.”

Manuel said that he and Williams have not spoken since his departure, but Manuel also said the lack of communication is one of awkwardness rather than bitterness. “I really don’t know what to say to him, to tell you the truth,” Manuel said. “I have a lot of respect for Jimy Williams. He’s a tremendous baseball guy.”

By N8

January 31, 2009 4:36 PM | Link to this

What? No Rush, Triumph or the great Aldo Nova on your list of Canadian rockers? :-)

Keep in mind, nobody can quite be as talented as Springsteen, but Bryan Adams has won a Grammy as well. Of course so did Milli Vanilli.

You never fail to amuse me DOB with your praising of what YOU like, yet qualify everything else (if you don’t like it), as crap that is not worthy of your ears.

Not sure why I’m making this arguement, Bryan Adams is kind of a wuss from my angle (reminds me or the roller rinks in the early 80’s).

But from my angle (whether I respect him or not), Springsteen has put out just as much crap as he has good music.

That being said, artists that stand the test of time (like he has), can’t have perfection on every track.

The fact that Springsteen won a Grammy for “Radio Nowhere” is as much of a joke as Jethro Tull beating out Metallica years ago.

The Grammy awards are as much of a Gentleman’s Club as the Gold Glove awards are (see Rafael Palmeiro), and the baseball owners NOT wanting Mark Cuban in their little club.

I just wish for once, you wouldn’t get so offended when people make a comparison, or state something THEY like (like comparing Bryan Adams to Springsteen). You sometimes act as though you are THE deciding factor of what is hip and relevant.

On a side note, how many players on the Cardinals and Steelers could name ANY Springsteen songs NOT named Born in the U.S.A or Glory Days? I’m gonna go with very few.

On a comparison question. You often rave about artists that write their own tunes. Which of course is very cool. But check out Elvis Presley’s first to albums. Not ONE SINGLE SONG was written (or co-written for that matter), by the King. Does that make him any less important, relevant or talented?

I’m gonna go with no.

But back to my comparison question. In years past, a catcher and pitcher would “call the game”, or in the NFL, quarterbacks were often left to call their own plays in the heat of the battle.

Does that make today’s guys any less smart or talented if the coordinator or manager is relaying in plays or pitches?

Again, I’m going with no.

Anyhow. Not actually as crabby or “attacking” as this post may seem. Just for the life of me, can’t figure out why you’re so pig-headed about some of your opinions.

That being said, I actually respect your opinion of music and artists (don’t always agree with it, but respect it).

Too bad you can’t do the same for others.

By Random

January 31, 2009 4:56 PM | Link to this

cabravesfan, DOB, No More Morans, Jim, Steve McP, BamaBrave, Lew, brent a. Ryan W., et al—

“Maing, wouldn’t it be GREAT if the Braves signed Manny for one year at $15M with an option?”

Buster Olney, ESPN:

“it appears that the San Francisco Giants are the only team standing between Ramirez and a capitulation that the slugger might feel is utterly embarrassing.

“The Dodgers made a $45 million offer to Ramirez in November and then withdrew it

“the Giants have emerged as a player in this bidding. But it remains to be seen whether they are going to be shoving big chips at Ramirez, or if they’re just hanging in the thing to position themselves in the event Ramirez gets so frustrated with the Dodgers that he’ll walk away from L.A., at any price.

“As one executive said, few teams have enough money remaining to sign Ramirez, so the Dodgers could conceivably offer $30MM over two years and still make the highest bid.”

By Bill

January 31, 2009 4:59 PM | Link to this

Thanks N8 @ 4:36

By THE BEAR

January 31, 2009 5:03 PM | Link to this

Lou Vales, I agree with you about Dontrelle. I wondered when Detroit gave him that big contract if their scouts had been paying attention. And if they had then I didn’t want them for my scouts.

Dontrelle is likely washed up as a pitcher. On the other hand he is a pretty good hitter and showed some power. It might not be a bad idea for him to start over as maybe a first baseman or an outfielder and work his way back as a position player as Ankiel did at St. Louis.

By winterville

January 31, 2009 5:03 PM | Link to this

Looks like we avoided arb with Kotchman.

By Tomas

January 31, 2009 5:04 PM | Link to this

Kotchman avoided arbitration, signed to 2.88 million. I think it’s pretty fair. Two more left to go.

By Canadianbrave

January 31, 2009 5:08 PM | Link to this

N8

Wow! Don’t hold back! I think DOB was just defending an American icon. As well as a personal favorite! I don’t know where you are from, but in Canada we are exposed to a widespread stream of music. At times when I have travelled in the US, the airwaves have been crammed with US music. DOB is just putting one of his personal favorites first. That’s precisely why I asked the question earlier if The Tragically Hip ever received much airplay in Atlanta. It seems to me that the only international bands that have received alot of airplay in the US over the years, are the ones who have played there extensively,or relocated there to record. As Canadians, we could be a little more respectful of our own music, and maybe our artists ,like some of the ones you mentioned, might not have to go abroad to sell records. Kudos to DOB for defending his own, but I hope he is more careful in not lumping Canadian music into the small pockets that get Air time on the other side of the border.

By Random

January 31, 2009 5:21 PM | Link to this

Baseball Prospectus’ Christina Kahrl’s analysis of Braves’ transactions:

Non-tendered LHP Chuck James. [12/12]

Signed 4C-S Greg Norton to a one-year, $800,000 contract. [12/19]

Signed RHP Kenshin Kawakami to a three-year, $23 million contract. [1/13]

Signed RHP Derek Lowe to a four-year, $60 million contract; outrighted LHP Francisley Bueno to Gwinnett (Triple-A). [1/15]

Signed RHP Mike Gonzalez ($3.45 million) and OF-R Matt Diaz ($1.2375 million) to one-year contracts, avoiding arbitration with both. [1/19]

While Omar’s bullpen makeover got a lot of early-winter attention for the cannonball run it represented into the pool of prospective relief solutions, let’s not sell Frank Wren short for what he’s achieved this offseason in putting together a rotation that his club might plausibly contend with. Lowe at this price is a bargain, especially relative to the kind of money that was thrown at A.J. Burnett or has been rumored to be going to people like Ben Sheets or Oliver Perez. Keeping him in the DH-less league for his age-36 through age-39 seasons is a reasonable investment for a guy who’s taken on a fifth of his team’s starts seven years in a row, his skill set has proven to be equally durable, and while the Braves’ infield defense leaves something to be desired, ground balls are high-percentage outcomes that Lowe should deliver with the reliability for which he’s justly famous. As Clay Davenport noted about Kawakami, he may not be a great pitcher, but he stands a pretty good chance of being a solid rotation regular. Add in the previous trade Wren made to bring in Javier Vazquez, and you’ve got a unit with Lowe up front, Vazquez and Jair Jurrjens lined up behind him, and Kawakami and retread discovery Jorge Campillo at the back end of the rotation. While that isn’t a great unit, it’s a competitive one that might actually do more than well enough to lift the Braves back into contention for the first time in years, and add some meaning and color to the tail end of Chipper Jones’s career, as well as to the front ends of those of Brian McCann or Yunel Escobar.

Obviously, much remains to be resolved—the entire outfield is a blur of question marks where nobody should be considered a reliable option, and Casey Kotchman needs to get his career in order as well. The bench has its virtues—Norton’s a playable pinch-hitter and reserve bit for all four corners, but shouldn’t be stretched into anything more than that, while Omar Infante, Martin Prado, and Dave Ross all have their uses. But as far as major feats achieved this winter, while much of it really was a matter of money, conjuring up a rotation is a feat worthy of note, and when you add in finally getting the benefit of a full season from Gonzalez in the pen, the pitching staff at least has some promise. Even there, though, we’ll have to see whether Bobby Cox can pick the balance of a pen from among the rest of the supporting cast; what was once one of his signature virtues as a manager has been a little more open to question in recent years, as the unit’s disintegrated into a profusion of big innings punctuated by a mounting tally of intentional walks.

By Lou Vales

January 31, 2009 5:43 PM | Link to this

The Bear, Why this has not been done is amazing. The guy has an unbelievable command of the strike zone, a swing with absolutely no hitches and tremendous raw power AND he CAN’T pitch. He is beyond through. His velocity is not coming back and that delivery can’t be fixed. A DH in waiting, doesn’t even have to learn a position. I spoke to pewople who said he was a far better hitting prospect than Ankiel.

By goldenglove002

January 31, 2009 5:45 PM | Link to this

DOB, I saw somewhere that the Twins have Delmon Young available. He seemed to have a future 2 years ago, but wasnt so great last year. Any thoughts on what he might look like in a Braves cap and if you have heard any different rumors?

Prado/Infante, JoJo Reyes and Cody Johnson for Delmon Young

By N8

January 31, 2009 6:16 PM | Link to this

Canadianbrave

My post wasn’t meant to come across as an attack. DOB and I (among others) have gone back and forth for some time now on music, the love of it, and how I feel that defining some music as “crap” while other is “gold”, is purely in the ear of the listener and (or) critic.

DOB isn’t a musician (as he’s stated before), he is just a lover of music. Kudos to him for that.

I am a musician, have be working at it for 20+ years. So I respect ALL music, and anybody who has the balls to put themselves out there with it. When I come across music that I don’t care for, rather than call it crap (or worse), I simply choose say that it’s not my cup of tea.

DOB is, however, a journalist and a reporter, following an MLB team. I wouldn’t dare call his work “crap” or question the manner in which he (or other beat reporters/writers) make their living.

I would expect DOB to stand up for his fellow colleagues in the manner that I stick up for ALL musicians.

In reality, DOB (or anybody for that matter, NOT trying to single out DOB - though he has the larges “voice” here), ragging on musicians for sucking, is as silly as me ragging on Frenchy for not being able to hit a low and away curveball to RF, or perhaps a blogger questioning Bobby’s ability to handle a bullpen.

In the end, just like all of us are fans of the Braves, DOB is a fan of music, entitled to his opinion, and certainly I’m not griping for him doing so on HIS OWN blog. Doesn’t make his opinion of Springsteen, Bryan Adams, Whitesnake, Animal House or Van Wilder any more correct than any of our opnions of Andruw Jones.

With guys like Springsteen (not picking on him, I actually dig him - not a huge fan, but much respect for the man), why is he so special? Because critics say he is? Hmmm. Critics will tell you that Justin Timberlake is special too. I’m guessing not too many people out there that like (and respect) both those artists.

To me, what makes Springsteen special, is that the average American can “relate” to him. The average American cannot relate to most rock stars. Garth Brooks had the same “good ol’ boy” feel about him, with the country (sorry if you don’t think Garth is country), people. His “act” is being down to earth. Nirvana get’s a lot of credit for NOT having a look. Their look was well calculated and thought out by managers and publicists. Believe it or not.

Is it album sales? Hmmm. New Kids on The Block sold a TON of albums too.

How about Grammy’s? Two words…. Milli Vanilli.

I guess it just comes down to opinion of the listener in the end, huh?

Anyhow. Not excited for the SB (only for it to be over, so my Chiefs can hire Haley from the Cardinals).

VERY excited for spring training, and just felt like ranting today.

Nothing personal towards anybody intended. Call me long-winded, call me full of hot air, call me and idiot. But not a damn person out there can say I don’t respect others views, likes, tastes and opinion.

Can’t say that about everbody on the blog.

By David O'Brien

January 31, 2009 6:19 PM | Link to this

Canadianbrave, I do like the Tragically Hip. And Blue Rodeo. Neither of which get much air play here (but then, most good non-mainstream bands get little airplay on powerful U.S. stations anymore, only on a few smaller indie stations and college stations).

Also, Ron Sexsmith is an outstanding singer/songwriter not nearly as lauded and appreciated as he should be. I saw him at Smith’s a couple years ago. Much as I love Smith’s, a guy that talented should be selling out larger venues, if you ask me.

By Reality

January 31, 2009 6:24 PM | Link to this

Baseball Prospectus nailed it. The Braves’ outfield is a total joke. I can’t remember the last time a team had both their everyday corner outfielders (Blanco and Francoeur) put up OPSs under .700 in full seasons like the 2008 Braves. Yeesh.

By David O'Brien

January 31, 2009 6:35 PM | Link to this

Yes, Kotchman signed for right at about the midpoint of the salary figures he and the team had offered, $2.885 mill for one year.

Only Kelly J and Francoeur left unsigned among arb-eligibles. I’d bet Kelly will get done before spring training.

By Rodney

January 31, 2009 6:36 PM | Link to this

ABREU!! ABREU!! ABREU!! ABREU!! Guess you can figure out who my choice would be if the Braves signs another outfielder.

By Canadianbrave

January 31, 2009 6:38 PM | Link to this

Im extremely glad that this baseball blog sometimes branches off into opinions on other facets of life. It gives the blogger a little more insight into the people they are communing with. I, for one, would hate to think that I am spending(what sometimes seems like way too much) time chatting with people who only have the Atlanta Braves on their mind. Interesting day on the blog! Go Braves:Go Music:Go pent up frustrations. Gotta tend to other facets of life..Adios

By Random

January 31, 2009 6:48 PM | Link to this

Wayne in Utah: “I gotta say I think your Babe Ruth/Manny comparison is way off the mark. Not going to get into any real point by point discussion on it, but things were a heckuva lot different back then than now… . Babe Ruth was colorful and arrogant, but to try to put him into the same category as Manny is just not right.”

Well, I’ve been doing some research, lookin to find a reputable source with which to persuade you.

Not there yet, but in the meantime, here’re a couple of other fans’ opinions on the subject:

BO (commenter, bleacherreport.com): “Babe Ruth is a god in the baseball world. I don’t think many fans of the game would use the word despicable to describe him. But Ruth’s career with the Sox ended much like Manny’s. Babe Ruth wanted a raise and the owner didn’t want to pay. Ruth refused to play, leaving the team to go play pick up games to pad his wallet. Ownership got tired of his actions and traded him to the Yankees… . Now, you know that I totally disagree with everything you’re saying about Manny. But even [if] it all was true; it was still pale in comparison to how Ruth handled the situation. Ruth would just not show up one day because he would be playing an exhibition game for money.”

Tom Harrison (Contributor, bleacherreport.com): “The Boston Red Sox … traded away Manny Ramirez because he was causing problems in the clubhouse and wasn’t getting along with Red Sox management. These are similar reasons of why the Red Sox traded Babe Ruth to the Yankees back in 1919.”

By N8

January 31, 2009 6:49 PM | Link to this

“Kudos to DOB for defending his own, but I hope he is more careful in not lumping Canadian music into the small pockets that get Air time on the other side of the border.” CanadianBrave

That’s the one thing that I think DOB deserves a TON of street cred for in his taste of music. The dude seems to have heard or seen damn near everything out there. He does his own research and doesn’t seem to let the critics tell him what to like or listen to (though he often relays whether or not the critics like something - so he does pay attention).

I would highly doubt that he’s lumping “Canadian” music into any sort of vague category or “small pocket”, as you say.

My guess (and that’s all it is), is that to him it’s just music. Regardless of where the artist is from.

In the end, DOB likes what he likes. He’s not afraid to say it, and he’s not afraid to tell you that you listen to crap, if he thinks you do. Who am I to question that? After all, I like Van Wilder, right?

By N8

January 31, 2009 6:54 PM | Link to this

DOB

Hope no offense is taken in my rant. None intended. Just hopin’ some day you’ll be a little more open minded as to what might “move” somebody else musically.

After all, my grandpa loved Lawrence Welk and all things polka. If I would have ever had the ballz to tell him he liked what I deemed at the time to be “crap”, he woulda took me out behind his barn and whooped my azz.

Anyhow, that’s a good “middle of the road” figure for Kotchman. Two to go, as another blogger said.

Anybody else out there, think that the photo of Hanson on the Braves main page of the AJC, makes him look a little like Carrot-Top?

By Random

January 31, 2009 6:56 PM | Link to this

BP’s Christina Kahrl referenced Clay Davenport’s analysis of Kawakami:

Kawakami has been one of Japan’s better pitchers over the last decade, with a string of honors that include an NPB Rookie of the Year award, an MVP award (in 2004), and a Sawamura Award (roughly the equivalent of our Cy Young Award). The scouting reports say that while his fastball is just average, he earns high marks for his cutter, his slow curveball, and his control. I can’t say I’m fond of the up-and-down pattern of his career, particularly since his three-year contract with the Braves is set to land on two of the down seasons were the pattern to persist.

There is a second reason for concern, however. Chunichi is regarded as a good pitchers’ park, and the translation process may not be doing an adequate job of rendering this. The pitchers who have pitched in both Chunichi and in the US since 2003 have a combined translated ERA of 5.15 in Chunichi, and 5.98 elsewhere. On the other hand, that stat comes from just five pitchers, only one of whom—Luis Martinez—pitched more than 80 innings in Chunichi. The translation makes Kawakami roughly as good a pitcher as Jair Jurrjens was for the Braves last year; I don’t think he’ll do quite that well, but he ought to be better than an average National League pitcher.

By David O'Brien

January 31, 2009 6:57 PM | Link to this

dogsbrekky: Saw you mentioned an album by the old Aussie band Cold Chisel on your all-time top 10. Then I go into Don’s Ella Guru store this afternoon, and I’m thumbing through his new arrival used/new bin, and there’s a CD by Cold Chisel. I’ve never heard them before, but I mentioned to Don that you’d put them on your all-time list. He said the lead singer has an incredible voice.

By spotts

January 31, 2009 7:04 PM | Link to this

I just hope Springsteen doesn’t have a wardrobe malfunction.

By brent a.

January 31, 2009 7:13 PM | Link to this

NCBravesfan:

I’ve always been mixed on Bill Simmons. The reason I posted his comments is because he is a die-hard Red Sox fan, who has followed Manny’s career thisclose, especially this decade.

Personally, I find people like him to be in a better position than most to discuss Manny, because he isn’t just an MLB fan, but he’s a die hard Red Sox fan.

As fans, I think we all have experiences with this. People make comments about our favorite teams/players, that are simply unfounded; however, they are pretty consistent with what the media norm has become. However, because we have followed a situation closely, we are often in better shape to discuss the situation, and can provide more insight than the general populace.

On a similar note: Bill Simmons picked the Hawks to miss the play-offs, namely because of their bench. I am pretty certain that part of the reason that Simmons felt this way, was due to the over-publicized loss of Josh Childress.

When I read this, I realized that Simmons was wrong, for this reason. As soon as the Hawks lost Childress, they turned around and signed Maurice Evans. Now, while I believe that Childress is better than Evans, I also think that over an 82 game season, they will provide you with similar production.

In addition, the Hawks added Flip Murray to solidify the guard rotation.

Now, consider that the Hawks would be returning Mike Bibby (for his first full season), and a young nucleus of Smith, Horford, Williams, and Johnson - it was clear that the Hawks would be a better team.

But, to a guy like Bill Simmons, he focuses on the negatives, questionable coaching, a potential head case in Smith, forgetting that Marvin Williams is actually a good player, even if he’s not as good as Chris Paul or Deron Williams, as well as what Simmons perceived to be a weak bench (however, even though the bench is thin, it has some quality, and guys like Simmons (who don’t watch the Hawks very much), undervalue the likes of Zaza Pachulia, who has been solid in Atlanta for over three years now).

So now, back on point - because I can rattle off that stuff about the Hawks off the top of my head, because I follow them closely (only follow the Lakers more closely), I give some credence to Simmons’ comments about Manny Ramirez.

Now, if Simmons wants to start telling me everything I’m supposed to think about John Smoltz, I won’t be listening; but, in regards to Manny, I’m all ears.

By Wayne in Utah

January 31, 2009 7:37 PM | Link to this

Random Keep plugging away at Ruth. I will admit that he pushed their buttons to get a pay raise, but in those days, nobody in baseball was making much money (one day I will look up his salary history, but I seem to recall he got an incredible raise after his “boycott”). Ruth got them to anty up.

As for Manny, it was not like he was not getting an incredible salary. Dude listened to his agent tell him he was being dissed (I would be good money that if you could look into Boras’ heart, you would see his motivation to get a pay day from Manny). This, on top of all the other antics.

Some similarities to Ruth? Yes. The same type of situation? No way. Manny is a cancer, currently in remission. If his best offer is 2 years at 15 million per year, and he takes it, it wouldn’t be long before the “cancer” would return.

As a GM, I would not touch that (at that price) with a 25 million dollar pole. If I am a GM, I am offering him a year to year deal, at reduced rates due to the recession! :-)

Your defensive spectrum from Bill James is interesting. I can understand why first is so far to the left, but I am not sure I really agree with that ranking. A first baseman does not require a lot of agility or speed or range or incredible talent to be an OK first baseman. BUT, a really good first baseman can hide a lot of “sins” by the other four infielders (pitcher included) and the catcher.

I would probably put him ahead in importance than the two corner OF positions. Just my 2 cents worth.

I will be out for a while. I will look for your response later.

By Dadgum

January 31, 2009 7:38 PM | Link to this

Richbrave and Gil…you have yet to take me up on that beer in Richmond! Did I mention I was buying? Maybe prior to the Zoso show at The National.

Ran into the Georgia Tech Ice Hockey team(I kid you not) while working out at ACAC in Midlothian. They are playing Richmond tonight at the IceZone. Gonna catch it. Hit you back. Later.

Rock on….Caddyshack lives!

By Coach (Skip and Pete will be missed)

January 31, 2009 8:28 PM | Link to this

Ruth’s legend is bigger than anything that Manny Ramirez will ever hope to match. The man transcended baseball, he was larger than life or the game itself. Comparing the two is just insulting. Babe Ruth is an authentic American Hero who is revered by generations.

Here are some interesting tidbits that most fan’s are unaware of.

Babe Ruth was a Brave. The Yankees traded the Bambino to the Braves on February 26, 1935.

He was considered the best lefthander in the American League during his brief time pitching.

Spoke German fluently.

Was given eight nicknames: The Bambino, The Caliph of Clout, Babe, Sultan of Swat, Jidge, The Behemoth of Bust, The Great Bambino and the Big Bam.

Babe Ruth’s official family website

By That's Mr. Gil to You

January 31, 2009 8:56 PM | Link to this

Dadgum Drop me an e-mail at elliotgm@aol.com

By richbrave

January 31, 2009 9:45 PM | Link to this

DAVID O’BRIEN:

Just back from seeing REVOLUTIONARY ROAD. Powerful, great acting. Touched my soul, unlike BENJAMIN BUTTON or DOUBT. Kudos to you for having the “backbone” to go to PARIS instead of the alternative. KATE IS a fox, a fox.!!!!

By flange1

January 31, 2009 10:25 PM | Link to this

N8,

Dude, your 6:16 post was top notch.

Well done!

(note to self, add 4 gold stars to N8)

By richbrave

January 31, 2009 10:26 PM | Link to this

DADGUM:

Missed your post. glawrence007@yahoo.com

By dogsbrekky

January 31, 2009 10:53 PM | Link to this

DOB - Cold Chisel is a legendary Aussie band and by far my favorite of anyone…. I grew up with their stuff and followed their live act for years..

sadly they never took off in USA whereas 2ndary acts (at the time) like INXS, Men at Work and Midnight Oil did. Not to denigrate the latter 3 groups as I like them all, they cannot be considered in the same class as Chisel…

Ironically, we saw the ex Cold Chisel lead singer “live” in New York last week as part of an Australia Week show entitled “Australia Plays Broadway”.

The singer Jimmy barnes used to be a real ruffian, fighter, drunkard etc etc. He has calmed down a bit in his 50s, or so it appears….

The songwriter from the band has helped people like Nick Cave who may be better known here..

Movies, finally saw Frost/Nixon tonight (yet again missed Che I and II). The movie was excellent and Langella’s performance a treat…. I even remember happy ol’ David Frost from the time I was a kid down-under..

By dogsbrekky

January 31, 2009 10:57 PM | Link to this

Coach on a Babe Ruth trivia note - One of his apartments (he lived in) is currently for sale in New York (along with half the rest of the city)..

By Random

January 31, 2009 11:19 PM | Link to this

Wayne in Utah: “I will admit that [Ruth] pushed their buttons to get a pay raise, but in those days, nobody in baseball was making much money (one day I will look up his salary history, but I seem to recall he got an incredible raise after his “boycott”). Ruth got them to anty up… As for Manny, it was not like he was not getting an incredible salary.”

Ruth got $5k in 1917, $7.5k in 1918 and signed a 3-year contract for $10k per annum prior to the 1919 season. In 1920, the Yankees paid him $20k.

Regardless how these salaries compare to Manny’s, or to other players’ salaries of the same era, the simple point is that Ruth wanted more money and deliberately missed games in 1919 in an effort to either get more money, or force the Sox to trade him.

The main difference between Ruth and Ramirez is that Manny has only been accused of similar behavior.

WiU: “Manny is a cancer, currently in remission.”

Thing for me is, “clubhouse cancer” is such a subjective and highly charged term, it seems obvious to me that the only ones who would use it are those with personal axes to grind (and those who believe them for whatever reason and perpetuate the terminology).

In other words, I am skeptical that such charges are at their root unbiased — I have seen plenty of contradictory testimony. Eg, Bill Simmons, quoted above by brent a., with subsequent exposition

WiU: “If I am a GM, I am offering him a year to year deal, at reduced rates due to the recession!”

And that is pretty much exactly what I thought would be GREAT (for the Braves) — a one year deal (with option) for $15M.

Any old way, here’s the historical perspective I was looking for and finally found:

Paul H. Shannon, Boston Post, January 6, 1920:

“In fact, only two weeks ago the Boston Sunday Post gave a very plain as well as exclusive hint to its readers that [Babe] Ruth was on the baseball market, and that the New York Yankees would probably make an offer for him. Those nearest the Red Sox administration could see the handwriting on the wall when Babe, after leaving the Sox in the lurch at Washington late last September, jumped to the coast and forced the Boston management to endure censure and ridicule for his non-appearance in the lineup.

“At that time it was felt that relations between the club and the heavy hitter were severely strained, and those who could read between the lines began to understand that Babe instead of proving the imagined bulwark of the Boston team was in reality proving a decided menace to the welfare of the team.

“When even Ruth’s fellow players began to complain and show their dissatisfaction over the privileges that Babe took without leave, the management was forced to the conclusion that with Ruth remaining a member of the team harmony in the Red Sox family was impossible.

“When Ruth, refusing to abide by the conditions of the three-year contract signed by himself last spring, and in which he practically forced the management to concede him a salary of $10,000 per annum, sent that contract back to the team without word of any kind and then issued his ultimatum to the California writers, stating that he would not play under $20,000, President Frazee decided that the time had come for Ruth to pass on, and in consequence he began to give ear to the plea of the New York management, who have always been eager to get the home run hitter as a Polo Ground attraction.”

(I think I’ve found some more stuff — later, maybe.)

By richbrave

January 31, 2009 11:27 PM | Link to this

Looks like the BRAVES agree. Avoid arb with KOTCHMAN if a reasonable compromise can be had. Good job FW. Keep waiting on ABREU and OHMAN.

By Random

January 31, 2009 11:38 PM | Link to this

Coach: “Was given eight nicknames: The Bambino, The Caliph of Clout, Babe, Sultan of Swat, Jidge, The Behemoth of Bust, The Great Bambino and the Big Bam.”

Make that nine (at least):

“The Colossus, as Babe was known in Boston, maintained his status as a top pitcher while simultaneously becoming the game’s greatest hitter.”

By Canadianbrave

January 31, 2009 11:39 PM | Link to this

Just downloaded some Cold Chisel stuff Bow River and Four Walls and read a little bit about the band Sounds like it might have been more bad timing and bad luck that they didn’t become more successful internationally. Seem like a fairly eclectic band I’ll have to hear more.

By StingerSplash

January 31, 2009 11:42 PM | Link to this

Watching the “lost” Bill Hicks standup routine on Letterman last night, I forgot just how dark and sardonic that guy was. Taken from us way, way too soon.

N8, I don’t think DOB has taken a big, fat steaming one on anyone else’s music tastes, unless they prefer Whitesnake or Def Leppard (went to Music Midtown a few years back and on the same stage, in succession, they had the DBTs, D-n-C and Everclear … with Def Leppard closing the evening. Saw and thoroughly enjoyed the first three. Bolted before I had to reach back for a Members Only jacket and a t-top Camaro to truly enjoy Def Leppard, part of the soundtrack of my high school senior year … oh, well).

On Mills and Buck: I think they were, and maybe still are, big Falcons fans, too. Stipe? Not so much. Shocking, isn’t it? Kevn Kinney from Drivin n Cryin is a big baseball guy too. Saw them one night in Los Boros many moons ago and as they started the set, Tim Nielsen, the bass player, sees the TV behind the bar with a Braves playoff game on and yells out, “Come on, Fred McGriff!”

By Bravo Nam

February 1, 2009 12:15 AM | Link to this

DOB

Jimmy Barnes was the lead singer of Cold Chisel (or The Chisel as their affectionately known). After they disbanded, he went on to have a very successful solo career. He has a very interesting personal and family history…married to an Asian woman…his kids formed a band a while back called the Tin Lids or Tin Cups (can’t remember which one).

On to baseball, what is the progress on the two Aussie lads…Moylan and Stockman. Haven’t heard anything about Stockman for yonks, but if healthy the guy can potentially be as devastating as any of the guys they currently have in their bullpen.

By Random

February 1, 2009 12:22 AM | Link to this

Wayne in Utah —

I guess it’s later by now — here’s some more stuff:

Some excerpts from DEADBALL STARS OF THE AMERICAN LEAGUE’s Babe Ruth bio:

On May 6, 1918, in the Polo Grounds against the Yankees, Ruth played first base, subbing for the injured Dick Hoblitzel, and batted sixth. It was the first time he had appeared in a game other than as a pitcher or pinch-hitter and the first time he batted any spot other than ninth… . Three days later, on May 9, Ruth had one of the most extraordinary games of his career, going 5-for-5 in the cleanup spot with three doubles and a triple, while also pitching a 10-inning complete game, losing 4-3 to reliever Walter Johnson.

[Red Sox manager Ed] Barrow also wanted Ruth to continue pitching, but Babe, enjoying the notoriety his hitting was generating, often feigned exhaustion or a sore arm to avoid the mound. The two men argued about Ruth’s playing time for several weeks. Finally, after one heated exchange in early July of 1918, Ruth quit the team. He returned after a few days and, after renegotiating his contract with Frazee to include some hitting-related bonuses, patched up his disagreements with Barrow.

“I don’t think a man can pitch in his regular turn, and play every other game at some other position, and keep that pace year after year,” Ruth said. “I can do it this season all right, and not feel it, for I am young and strong and don’t mind the work. But I wouldn’t guarantee to do it for many seasons.”

By glord

February 1, 2009 12:25 AM | Link to this

There is nothing funnier than listening to Manny apoligists.

Here are some undisputable facts for you apologists.

1. Manny was in the last year of his 8 year ccontract that had paid him over 160 mil. In that contract Boston had two club options for over 22 mil a year.

2. Manny changed agents and Boras would have been paid nothing on either option year. Manny did not want those years picked up because he wanted to be a free agent and shop for a multi year deal.

3. Did I mention those club option were part of the contract that Manny signed to get his intial 160 mil.

4. When Boston would not negotiate an in season deal and he told him they were now working off the year to year options he suddenly had a bad knee and would not play.

5. When asked which knee was injured he did not know so they had to mri both. Both looked clean.

6. He refused to play and the Sox were in the process of suspending him when they gave him to the Dodgers and paid his salery when they desparately needed him.

7. Manny is the best right handed hitter in 20 years when motivated.

8. He is not always motivated.

Manny is a tremedous talent who can be a devatating hitter. He really has no hole in his swing. The problem now is that not only is he expensive but every GM in baseball knows he quit on the Red Sox. How many GM wants to give this talented flake-headcase-quiter a ton of money when you can not trust him. It will be interesting to see how he is to deal with if he expected a 4 year $100 mil contract and he gets a 2 year $30 mil.

I am not sure how anyone can fault the Red Sox for asking him to be professional and live up to the contract he signed

By StingerSplash

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

Simmons can enjoy revisionist history all he wants, but Manny quit on the Red Sox, not once but twice and when the club finally called him on it this summer (sending him to have MRIs on his “sore” knees), he quickly tried to beg his way back into their good graces. But they had had enough, and so had a lot of Sox fans. As good as he is, and he is no doubt one of the three best right handed hitters of this generation (along with Pujols and, OK, A-Fraud), his childish and child-like behavior was beyond a distraction. Notice you didn’t see many Sox players, either on the record or on background, spout off about how the Sox brass screwed up by not keeping Manny. Their silence on the matter was deafening. I’m now more convinced than ever that there’s three little 6s on the back of Scott Boras’ head.

And Springsteen live is unbelievable. The Stones live (now almost 20 years ago - yikes!) still ranks as the No. 1 show I’ve seen, with the Allman Brothers in the acoustically perfect Johnny Mercer Theater in the otherwise dump of a Savannah Civic Center at No. 2 (they were on like Donkey Kong from start to finish, and had Blues Traveler opening. A great damn show), with The Boss tied with The Thin White Duke and U2 at No. 3. The man is 58 years old and just kicks major backside for three hours-plus. Amazing. The only thing that continues to puzzle me is … Patty Scialfa over Julianne Phillips.

By Random

February 1, 2009 1:29 AM | Link to this

glord: “There is nothing funnier than listening to Manny apoligists… . Here are some undisputable facts for you apologists.

“Manny did not want those years picked up because he wanted to be a free agent and shop for a multi year deal.”

Sorry, bub, that ain’t even a fact — it’s merely your worthless speculation, and flies in the face of what Manny himself was on record as saying in Spring 2008.

gl: “Manny is the best right handed hitter in 20 years when motivated.”

What stats are you looking at that differentiate between games or plate appearances where a player is “motivated” vice those when a player is not “motivated”?

You don’t need to qualify your statement — Manny is the best right handed hitter in 20 years. Period.

The only reason to qualify it as you did would be to rationalize your own biases.

gl: “I am not sure how anyone can fault the Red Sox for asking him to be professional and live up to the contract he signed”

Bill Simmons: “The Sox won the 2007 WS, and heading into 2008, Manny made it clear he wanted to stay and he wanted some resolution to his contract one way or the other - either waive the 09 10 options or pick them up. The Sox did neither. They let him twist in the wind. Did he deserve that after giving them 7 HUGE years and helping them win two titles? I say no. I think they were jerks about it.”

For a little context, David Ortiz had a 2-year contract for 05 & 06, with a club option for 07.

In Apr 06, Boston gave Ortiz a four year extension (07-10) with a club option for 11.

Was Manny so wrong to expect similar treatment from the oh so professional Red Sox front office in the last year of his contract?

Believe what you want, but it appears to me that you’ve already decided to listen to only one side of the discussion.

By N8

February 1, 2009 1:47 AM | Link to this

Flange

Thanks. I’m glad SOMEBODY gets it.

StingerSplash

“N8, I don’t think DOB has taken a big, fat steaming one on anyone else’s music tastes, unless they prefer Whitesnake or Def Leppard…”

Thanks for backing up my point. I appreciate the help.

You’re missing the point. It’s not about MY opinion, and DOB (or anybody) agreeing or disagreeing with it.

I’m a big boy. I can handle that my mom didn’t like the same music that I did. She could also handle that I didn’t ever care for Jesus Christ Superstar.

But never, ever, ever, ever, ever (need a couple more to grasp the point?), did I say that her choice of music sucked. Nor her of mine. It’s the way that I was raised.

Now, one could say (as I admitted in earlier posts), that I’m a bit hypocritical, since I regularily bash sports stars that fail.

Apples and oranges, IMO. These guys are paid millions of dollars to succeed. In sports there is a winner and a loser. Always has been, always will be. Not every sport can be like Hockey (or the “once every few years” in the NFL) and have ties.

So, it’s not really OPINION, when one says that Francoeur sucked last year. There are stats to back it up.

What stats are there in music and movies? Ticket sales and album sales? I don’t think so. Other wise the Jonas Brothers would be the greatest thing since sliced bread. It is opinion. Plain and simple.

And to think that because YOU like something and think it’s great, and anything else is crap because YOU don’t like, doesn’t make it so.

I grew up in the 80’s. Was a HUGE Def Leppard fan. Also listened to some Whitesnake along the way. Name and 80’s band, and I more than likely had a cassette tape and a t-shirt. Saw most of them live too.

I’ve grown out of my LOVE for said bands. Still jam it up when they’re on the radio or VH1-classic. But am not gonna argue the validity of their talents to people who are so closed minded as to not appreciate ALL talent, rather than just the “talent” they like.

OK, I guess I am gonna argue it. I have been all day.

If you wanna have an arguement over who is more relevant or “bow down in their precence” worthy between Bon Jovi and Bruce Springsteen, I’d probably admit that Springsteen maybe should be taken more seriously.

Not sure why I say that. Probably because the critics say so. But WHEN I GREW UP, Bon Jovi was more relevant to ME. When I hear a Bon Jovi (or enter any 70’s, 80’s pop/rock act) on classic rock stations, it sparks a memory. Which makes it valid to ME.

Doesn’t mean that it’s better than Springsteen, doesn’t mean that I don’t respect Springsteen. Just capturing a moment in MY life. Nothing more, nothing less.

The ultimate question, would be to ask Springsteen what HE thinks of his fellow New Jersey contemporaries. My guess is that he’s got NOTHING but glowing remarks for the songwriting, workmanship, effort, talent and overall “being” of them. On AND off the record.

Like I said. DOB (or anybody else for that matter), isn’t hurting my feelings by not liking my favorite acts (or movies) of today or yesteryear.

I find it rather sad as a fellow FAN OF MUSIC in general, that somebody that on the surface seems so open minded, can be so closed minded on the subject.

My very favorite band of all time is Kings X, dig every one of their solo albums as well (which are all very weird in their own way), second on that list is Cry of Love. Two bands that have ZERO commercial success under their belts. So don’t lump me into the general public of sheep that follow the hits. Not even close.

I’m just not afraid to admit that every now and then a song that’s deemed “popular”, gets in my head and makes me tap my toe.

I just think it’s funny that bands from the 80’s get lumped into a category of non-credibility because of their wardrobe and hair. Thus the term “hair bands”. It was the 80’s. It was the style.

No different than the 70’s and bell-bottoms. The 70’s bands shouldn’t be judged by their “look”, which was more a sign of the times, than their own style statment.

I think a LOT of people forget how much hairspray Axl Rose had (along with the rest of the members), in the Welcome to the Jungle video.

Alice in Chains was WAY MORE of a hair band before “Facelift” broke, than they were a grunge band. Go look up the photos.

Anyhow. That’s enough ranting for a while. I’m sure somebody will respond with something that will get me going again.

Appreciate the back and forth either way. It more than likely has been more entertaining than the SB will be tomorrow.

On a side note, just wanna say it’s about damn time that Derrick Thomas gets in the NFL HOF. Of course I’m stating that as a Chiefs fan, but this was a no brainer that shouldn’t have taken that long.

Thomas led the NFL in sacks in the 90’s. Has 2 of the 3 highest single game sack records (6 and 7), forced over 40 fumbles (pretty much introduced and perfected the “sack-strip” move that EVERYBODY uses today, and is one of only 3 guys with 3 or more safties under his belt. He was also reviving his career, the season before he passed. So those numbers would have likely been added to had he not passed.

Like I said… No brainer.

By jed

February 1, 2009 3:47 AM | Link to this

N8

dear god no! not the relativist music argument again! i thought we retired that last year. yes, the wiggles are every bit as good as beethoven and mozart, because your 3 year old likes it. that’s a truly revelatory perspective. you missed your calling. now, please— for the love of Thor! no more!

By Couch Tater

February 1, 2009 4:35 AM | Link to this

N8 - Rest in peace Derrick Thomas. [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3tRMhO1rKSQ]

By BayAreaSteve

February 1, 2009 6:08 AM | Link to this

It’s 3:00 AM, and I’m watching tennis. Not just watching, riveted.

Effeminate, yes; Drunk, yes.

And, can someone tell Rafael Nadal to stop picking at his a*. He looks like Anders after servicing important clients.

By Random

February 1, 2009 9:04 AM | Link to this

Lew: “Whatever. You’re certainly free to compare whomever you desire, whether or not there are large age differences or 90 years separating their careers with nothing else in common other than that they are both good hitters and are both considered attitudinal. Again. Whatever.”

Okay, Lew, I’ve already conceded to you the age difference.

However, my larger point is that we actually glorify Ruth for the actions that led to his sale to the Yankees, and at the same time villify Ramirez for similar (though arguably, less disruptive) behavior.

That’s all I’m sayin.

By glord

February 1, 2009 9:16 AM | Link to this

By Random

February 1, 2009 1:29 AM | Link to this

glord: “There is nothing funnier than listening to Manny apoligists… . Here are some undisputable facts for you apologists.

“Manny did not want those years picked up because he wanted to be a free agent and shop for a multi year deal.”

Sorry, bub, that ain’t even a fact — it’s merely your worthless speculation, and flies in the face of what Manny himself was on record as saying in Spring 2008.

Not worthless speculation. Manny knew that his highest value years were his next two and wanted to turn that into a 4/5 year deal worth 100 - 125 mil as a free agent. Fact Scott Boras would be paid nothing if Boston picked up the next two options. Boston had the right to wait until October every year to make that decision. The 160 mil and Mannys signature gave them that right legally and ethically.

gl: “Manny is the best right handed hitter in 20 years when motivated.”

What stats are you looking at that differentiate between games or plate appearances where a player is “motivated” vice those when a player is not “motivated”?

You don’t need to qualify your statement — Manny is the best right handed hitter in 20 years. Period.

The only reason to qualify it as you did would be to rationalize your own biases.

I will tell you how I qualify motivated or not motivated. Motivated for Manny means willing play. Unmotivated means faking an injury. He cant help you sitting on the bench. How did his injured knees lokk in LA?

gl: “I am not sure how anyone can fault the Red Sox for asking him to be professional and live up to the contract he signed”

Bill Simmons: “The Sox won the 2007 WS, and heading into 2008, Manny made it clear he wanted to stay and he wanted some resolution to his contract one way or the other - either waive the 09 10 options or pick them up. The Sox did neither. They let him twist in the wind. Did he deserve that after giving them 7 HUGE years and helping them win two titles? I say no. I think they were jerks about it.”

For a little context, David Ortiz had a 2-year contract for 05 & 06, with a club option for 07.

In Apr 06, Boston gave Ortiz a four year extension (07-10) with a club option for 11.

Was Manny so wrong to expect similar treatment from the oh so professional Red Sox front office in the last year of his contract?

Why did Boston treat Ortiz different than Manny? Easy they trust him. They know he will be professional, play injured and not take a leak in the left field Monster when they are pitching to a batter.

Believe what you want, but it appears to me that you’ve already decided to listen to only one side of the discussion.

** Manny was getting paid well on a contract that he signed. Boston was well within their rights to wait to August to see if Manny would grow up and they could count on him going forward. Remember that he already quit on them in 2006. He quit on his team again in 2008. Are you saying you believe that His knees were hurt in Boston but he gets traded and puts up the best 2 months in history in LA on injured knees.

You claim he is the best RH hitter in baseball. If that is the case why is he unsigned in Feb. Why does he have no current offer for more than two year and for less mony than he would have made in Boston?

The answer is no GM is going to put their job on the line for a guy that might decide not to play if its cloudy that day. No matter how good he is when it is sunny**.

It must be all of baseball is as biased against him as I am I suppose

By Danga

February 1, 2009 9:20 AM | Link to this

Hey folks…Does anyone have a working link to the Best CDs of 2008 blog? I was going to look and see if the Stephen Malkmus record made the list, and look for some more listening ideas. Really enjoying that Malkmus record and the new Andrew Bird record. If were to listen to one Cold Chisel album, which one should it be?

Also…I read a lot of discussion about movies and music, and it seems we all have similar tastes. How about books? Anyone read anything really great lately other than the latest Bill James handbook?

By TommyP

February 1, 2009 9:31 AM | Link to this

Random: Great contribution to the blog with the excerpts from periodicals of one George Herman Ruth from Baltimore. (he was once an Oriole as well…albeit, in the minors)

Amazing how people forgive Ruth for all the crap he did. The only difference in Ruth and Manny (not comparing their baseball abilities but off the field shenanigans) was the coverage. Everything makes news today while maybe 1% of what happened back then made news.

N8: GREAT musical post. I’m with you, man. I’ve always liked what I liked, not what someone told me was good.

Hey, call me what you want but I like stuff from Boston to Men at Work to Collective Soul to Rage Against The Machine to Josh Groban. Yeah, Groban.

Your comparison of Springsteen to Garth Brooks was priceless. I made that same one when the Springsteen debate began. Brooks was more a marketing success than anything. I used to tell my brother how Garth Brooks was one of the greatest ploys ever played on the American public. “Standing Outside The Fire” was the pinnacle of the joke for me.

Clint Black came out at about the same time as Brooks and I never understood why their successes weren’t reversed.

And don’t get me started on the “country music” argument that’s taken place on here.

By Brian Hankins

February 1, 2009 9:52 AM | Link to this

I have an idea about our final OF roster spot. How about we attempt to trade with the Angels again and this time for some speed and the possibility of a table setter. Chone Figgins can easily play in the outfield and has previously. Rumor is it that the Angels are going to give a younger prospect every opportunity to start above him at his current position. Hmm, I couldn’t imagine the Braves with a possible leadoff hitter with oh say 60 steals or more. Can you? I’m thinking we begin adding pressure to other teams pitching and here comes quite a few fastballs to our production guys. Just my idea oh and by the way. I’m pretty sure he and Juan Pierre both are making about the amount the Braves can afford this offseason.

By Brian Hankins

February 1, 2009 9:52 AM | Link to this

I have an idea about our final OF roster spot. How about we attempt to trade with the Angels again and this time for some speed and the possibility of a table setter. Chone Figgins can easily play in the outfield and has previously. Rumor is it that the Angels are going to give a younger prospect every opportunity to start above him at his current position. Hmm, I couldn’t imagine the Braves with a possible leadoff hitter with oh say 60 steals or more. Can you? I’m thinking we begin adding pressure to other teams pitching and here comes quite a few fastballs to our production guys. Just my idea oh and by the way. I’m pretty sure he and Juan Pierre both are making about the amount the Braves can afford this offseason.

By steveP

February 1, 2009 10:10 AM | Link to this

DOB….in regards to a new OF being on the team, when do you see this happening? Before pitchers and catchers report?

By Lew

February 1, 2009 10:20 AM | Link to this

Random-Dude, with absolutely no animosity intended towards you, I again say Whatever. I understand perfectly what you’re saying, but it’s strictly immaterial to anything I care about in this instance. I really don’t care one way or another whether or not there are comparisons between Manny and Babe Ruth.

I have no sympathy for him because he feels the Red Sox were playing him-that’s the way it is with the contractual situation in MLB-the Players’ Assn negotiated the deal and they can live with the results. They had every right in the world to either pick up those options (at any time) or not. They did nothing underhanded or illegal by making him wait until an already negotiated season was over. Boo Hoo. Manny wasn’t happy. I really just don’t care.

My entire point was that Manny has, indeed, p!$$ed off his teammates and management-indulging in behavior that would be highly unacceptable to the powers that be within the Braves’ organization and that those who are clamoring for the Dude to be signed by the Braves are wasting their breath. He isn’t coming here. Neither is Babe Ruth.

By Coach (Skip and Pete will be missed)

February 1, 2009 10:21 AM | Link to this

Hey, ones taste in music is purely subjective. I you love it, that is what’s important.

I’m jamming to some Creed at the moment.

Ruth loved the game and the fans loved him, we still do. That is why he is such a larger than life figure in the baseball world. Not to mention all those HR’s and baseball records. He inspired millions of young kids to pick up a glove and bat. In spite of his personal short comings in life, he always put the fans first

That other chump couldn’t give a damn about the fans.

I grew up listening to to the sounds of the late sixties, seventies and eighties. From Hendrix and Joplin on to Boston, the Eagles, Bad Company, Skynard and Aerosmith.

Then with the great hair bands of the eighties. Bon Jovi, Def Leppard, Motley Crue, Van Halen, Guns N Roses and many more. But as they say, it takes all kinds. Alabama, Hall and Oates (yea, those guys). I caught TommyP’s reference to Men at Work and I liked them too. Even Madonna caught my ear.

Music is the song’s and expression’s of the soul. We are in reality, spiritual beings. It’s what God created us to be. Enjoy it.

Ya’ll have a great super Sunday. I’ll be rooting for the underdog Cardinals.

By Lew

February 1, 2009 10:32 AM | Link to this

TommyP-Dude, you got that right-you like what you like regardless of what people say you should.

I know a good bit about music and have a huge CD collection, but I’ve learned a tremendous amount about bands I’d never heard of until I began blogging here. I truly believe that if anyone has a question about music or baseball, posting it here will garner you an intelligent and knowledgeable response from one Denizen or another-often times many such responses.

However, though I’m thrilled to have learned of DBT, Kings of Leon and lots of other (to me) new music, I still went out and bought the new Whitesnake AND the new Night Ranger. I even like Electric Six, which most here wouldn’t likely care for. Sorry y’all, but mindless teenage testosterone driven rock is one of my favorite things-so are3 the Hair Bands and Prog Rock, Metal and Art Rock. The fact I may really like Patterson Hood, Jason Isbell, Neal Young, Bruce Springsteen or Elvis has nothing to do with it-no5r does it negate it. The fact is that I just like mindless hard rock music- A LOT.

Check out the new Europe and Dokken CD’s-they’re really good. Y’all just might like them even if they don’t make the list of great and timeless music.

By David O'Brien

February 1, 2009 10:41 AM | Link to this

WiU: The “Manny is a cancer, currently in remission” line was very good.

dogsbrekky, I might have to get out to see Frost/Nixon during the intermindable hours of Super Bowl pregame garbage, before the Steelers commence to running roughshod.

Oh, and you said the songwriter from Cold Chisel “helped” Nick Cave … man, I’d have to say, I don’t think Cave’s needed help in the writing dept. That dude can pen a tune like few others….

By N8

February 1, 2009 10:45 AM | Link to this

Jed

Yup. We did go over it last year. Guess what? I’ll continue to post it once a year (or more often), as long as people still keep posting the same nonsense declaring that what they don’t like is crap. Capiche?

Couch Tater

Thanks for the Derrick Thomas link. Great college player as well. Watched some other Youtube stuff on him, once I watched your clip. There’s a “Top 10” Sack artists of all time (he came in 10th), where they are interviewing Gunther Cunningham, and he was talking about the Raiders game where DT had 6 sacks through 3 quarters. Gunther claims to have told Marty Shottenheimer that he was “calling off the dogs”, and that Derrick never complained and they later talked abou how they think he could have had 10+ sacks that game, because his first step off the snap was ridiculous that game. In the zone I guess. Anyhow. Thanks again.

Tommy P

Totally agree Garth Brooks. He gets credit for being “down to earth”, and it was a good manager that allowed him to have that apearance. My buddies and I have always made the joke, that he would get up in the moring (at the height of his career), and look in the mirror, and shout out to his wife…. “Honey, do you realize that you’re married to Garth F’n Brooks!?”

Coach

People call you all sorts of names, and accuse you of being stubborn, but ironically, you get it. Well stated. Creed huh? Another band that gets lambasted as “cheese rock”. But Mark Tremonti is one HELLUVA guitar player. Like a lot of bands from the 80’s, I’m not a huge creed fan, but they’re worth lisening to because of Tremonti.

By glord

February 1, 2009 10:50 AM | Link to this

Lew,

Where do you live in Vermont? I grew up there and now live in Atlanta. By the way you are dead on with everything you have said about the Manny situation.

I agree with Random on one thing though. When that dude wanted to he was fun to watch mash. There was no pitch he couldn’t crush.

By Mike

February 1, 2009 10:51 AM | Link to this

Now that Abreu has stated he would take a 1 year deal, what are we waiting for? Offer him a yr deal with a 2nd year option to bridge the gap to Heyward. Sure…he doesn’t have the power we lack, but he still can hit some home runs, and he consistently drives in 100+ runs. He has a high average and is a good club house guy, and would be a good leader. He will definitely help us.

Sign him up before some other team gets their money straight and swoops in and grabs him, and the we are left with losing prospects in a trade for a guy like Nady or Swisher.

Although I still say we get Dunn, but apparently the Braves have backed off from him, from what i have read.

By NCBravesFan

February 1, 2009 11:10 AM | Link to this

Brent A I hear you on Simmons and I think you and I agree that he writes more from a fan’s perspective on the game rather than a deep inner knowledge of what’s going on inside the clubhouse.

I seem to recall Gammons pointing out that the “Manny issue” was so much bigger than just the knee - the Sox players pretty much demanded that the team figure out a way to get rid of Ramirez … he & others also reported that Manny had physically attacked one of the clubhouse personnel over some stupid free tickets for a game … and said clubhouse guy is 60-something years old.

Did this stuff happen? Nobody knows for sure, but you don’t bet against Gammons’ accuracy these types of situations.

And I mean, think about it - the Sox traded one of the great all-time right handed hitters - AND PAID HIS SALARY IN FULL THE REST OF THE YEAR! The “DNA” of this situation just reeks of a team cutting a player who had ceased to be productive to the overall fortunes of the team.

By Lew

February 1, 2009 11:13 AM | Link to this

glord-I live in Randolph-pretty much in the center of the state and a half hour SE of Montpelier. The upper limits of what they refer to as the Upper (Connecticut River) Valley. Got about three feet of snow on the ground right now.

Yes, Manny can rake-no doubt bout it-but he will never rake for the Braves unless Ed Mangan (cool Dude-met him at Spring Training last year) hires him for the Ground Crew.

By winterville

February 1, 2009 11:15 AM | Link to this

DOB

So you like the Steelers . I’ll take the Cardinals and the points. My pick is dependent on the Cardinals O-line being able to protect at least a reasonable amount. If not, I agree, the Steelers will win the game. But I’ll take the Cardinals and live with the pick if I’m wrong.

By N8

February 1, 2009 11:15 AM | Link to this

Lew

Anymore luck with those CD’s?

By BLEEPER

February 1, 2009 11:16 AM | Link to this

DOB or anyone

i have been hearing Delmon Youngs name for a while now about possibly being traded and was wondering why the braves have not shown more interest in him?

By mbatl

February 1, 2009 11:38 AM | Link to this

N8 and Friend sitting at the bar, debating music:

N8: I think Def Leppard is great.

Friend: I respect that. I think the Osmonds are great.

N8: I respect that. The Scorpions are great.

Friend: I respect that. Milli Vanilii is great.

N8: I respect that.

Scintillating stuff!

… Just playing with you. You’ve managed to bring the entire blog out of the closet, musically speaking. I see nothing wrong with criticizing music you don’t like … like anything else, should be done civilly.

By Lew

February 1, 2009 11:42 AM | Link to this

Nathan-Dude, I got your email with the advice on how it might work, but haven’t had time to sit down and try what you suggest. Really though, Don’t worry about it. I’ll get it figured out. It has much more to do with my lack of the technology than anything you might have done.

By Steve from OH

February 1, 2009 11:46 AM | Link to this

Coach, I think we’ve found at least one thing we agree on…music!. Some mighty fine bands you just listed (I enjoy Creed at times as well, I can admit). Van Halen is probably my all-time favorite. And like Lew, I’d like to thank DOB for turning me on to some good tunes as well, like REM, Sexsmith, North Mississippi Allstars, etc., although some of his other favorites aren’t really my bag.

N8, I love King’s X. Here I thought I was the only one here…

By ô¿ô

February 1, 2009 11:48 AM | Link to this

just watched some videos of Diego St. Aztecs pitcher Stephen Strasburg who will be in the 2009 draft - this kid is a beast - throws over 100mph with a nasty slider - imagin having him and hanson @ the top of a rotation - some team is going to be happy when they get this kid. type Stephen Strasburg in youtube and watch his 23 strikeout game - pretty nasty stuff.

By David O'Brien

February 1, 2009 11:51 AM | Link to this

If you’re not a subscriber to Sports Illustrated, the current issue with LeBron James on the cover is well worth buying. This morning I read three good stories in it — the excerpt of the Joe Torre book with Tom Verducci, the cover story on the continued growth (literally and figuratively) of LeBron (do most people realize he is 6-foot-8 and goes between 265-270 pounds, with something like 5-percent body fat? Amazing.) and a story on Wake hoopster James Johnson, who happens to also be a black belt and former world champ in karate.

(I’d already read the Steelers story, drawn in immediately by the full-page photo of Jack Lambert, one of my all-time favorite athletes.

By David O'Brien

February 1, 2009 11:54 AM | Link to this

Winterville: Yeah, I like the Steelers big-time in this game. Though Bowman will be insufferable in the opening weeks of spring training if the Steelers win — he’s a Wheeling, West Virginia native and thus worships the Steelers.

By David O'Brien

February 1, 2009 12:02 PM | Link to this

NCBravesFan: You are correct. Manny shoved Jack McCormick, the 64-year-old longtime Red Sox travel secretary, to the ground in the visitors dugout at Houston last summer, after McCormick said he couldn’t fill Manny’s entire request for 16 tickets for a game that day (an inordinately high number of tix requested, especially on such short notice). He shoved him after yelling at McCormick, “Just do your job!” according to witnesses who were in the dugout.

Several onlookers had to get between the two of them. Ramirez didn’t deny the incident. In fact, he met with McCormick later and apologized.

By Lew

February 1, 2009 12:02 PM | Link to this

Bleeper-I haven’t really paid much attention to Delmon Young, except to note the attitude/behavior problems he’s exhibited since being in the minors.

However, when I checked, seems he’s got a fairly decent BA, but a low OBP for someone who only hits with moderate power and has his speed. He has not distinguished himself that much in his two full years, despite a 2nd place ROY finish (and then he was dumped by the Rays).

I guess what I found out about him was summed up best in the “Beyond The Boxscore” site in an entry by by R.J. Anderson -“The report on Young is that he is simply a slightly below average hitter with a strong arm, but still finds a way to be weak in the other areas of defense that matter.”

Maybe this is why there has not been any mention of Delmon as a Braves’ target. His stock has fallen. If traded, this will be three teams in the first three full years of his short career. Makes one wonder.

By Lew

February 1, 2009 12:06 PM | Link to this

StevefromOH-Saw King’s X on the same bill with L.A Guns in Tampa. Good show.

Did you ever find Zodiac Mindwarp? What do you think of Asphalt Ballet?

By BravesFanInRockies

February 1, 2009 12:17 PM | Link to this

Random (3:51 Saturday)

Yeah, Bill James’ order of defensive difficulty sounds about right. I have those Baseball Abstracts and forgot about his left-right spectrum.

The only issue I might take with his process is that while 3B is “easier” to play in that it doesn’t require you to be as athletic as it does if you’re a SS/2B or CF, if you don’t have extremely quick reflexes, the bail will occasionally eat you up. Same with 1B.

So as I said in the original post, the positions require slightly different skill sets.

As for the whole Babe vs. Manny debate, when Manny hired Boras to be his agent in February 2008, the entire dynamic between the Sox and Ramirez changed. Sure, Boras looks out for his clients, but he’s also out for himself. The way I understand it, as another denizen pointed out, Boras stood to get nothing or next to it if the Sox simply extended Manny’s contract by exercising his options.

Boras had every incentive to make sure Manny’s contract was renegotiated so he (Boras) could collect his commission. Does that mean he convinced Manny to screw up so that the Sox would let Manny hit the free agent market? We may never know but it probably made sense to Manny and Boras at the time. Now Manny can’t get a job and Boras can’t pocket a few million bucks. Boo hoo.

By winterville

February 1, 2009 12:21 PM | Link to this

DOB

That’s the main reason why I want the Cardinals to win. I have some Steeler friends too and the last one they won was bad enough. I’m probably picking more with my heart than my head but I really hope the Cardinals win.

By David O'Brien

February 1, 2009 12:30 PM | Link to this

JED: Just saw your 3:47 a.m. comment. Made me smile….

Danga, don’t know if you live in the Atlanta area, but Andrew Bird’s going to be at the Variety on Wednesday. Show’s sold out….

The Stephen Malkmus CD wasn’t on my 2008 list, but probably only because I didn’t buy it, so I haven’t heard the whole thing. (I only ranked CDs I had, not that I’ve heard a single song from on the radio or downloaded). But I have read that that CD was quite good. I’ll get it when i see a used copy somewhere.

Speaking of Malkmus, I just bought the expanded, two-disc version of Pavement classic “Brighten The Corners.” Also have the two-disc of their “Crooked Rain, Crooked Rain.” Great stuff.

With Pavement, those two-disc versions are definitely worth buying if you’re a big fan of the band, even if you have the original versions already (you can sell those for at least a few bucks). So much great, previously unreleased tuneage added to the expanded versions.

By Chris from the Rock

February 1, 2009 12:51 PM | Link to this

Is it me, or do the Braves have lots of players who could be deemed expendable b/c of roster depth? Don’t get me wrong, it’s nice to have depth. But the Braves have guys playing the same positions, offering essentially the same serivce, for lack of a better word, to the team. (I.E. Anderson/Blanco, Caryle/Bennett/Campillo, Prado/D. Hernandez, Morton/Reyes, Ridgway/O’Flaherty/Logan)

In saying that, don’t you think some of these players would be more valuable to a team that lacks depth at those positions? Prado will likely never start for the Braves b/c of Chipper and KJ. Morton will likely never be an important piece to them b/c of the logjam at the back end of the rotation (even w/o Glavine.) And these are good young players. Why not package them, along with someone like Blanco or Anderson (who also both likely 4th outfielders on most MLB teams), for an upgrade at another position such as LF? And I don’t mean someone like Dye, who is out of the Braves $$$ range. The Braves just need a power-hitting LF for 2 seasons as a bridge to Heyward or G. Hernadez. There are plenty of corner OFs out there who can hit.

By David O'Brien

February 1, 2009 12:54 PM | Link to this

If you wanna have an arguement over who is more relevant or “bow down in their precence” worthy between Bon Jovi and Bruce Springsteen, I’d probably admit that Springsteen maybe should be taken more seriously.N8

You think?

Come on, now:

“I walk these streets, a loaded six string on my back

I play for keeps, cause I might not make it back

I been everywhere, still I’m standing tall

I’ve seen a million faces an I’ve rocked them all!”

By BravesFanInRockies

February 1, 2009 12:56 PM | Link to this

On another topic, just read that Andy Marte is out of options and may be released by the Indians if he doesn’t have a decent spring.

Think about that. The Braves in effect got Jair Jurrjens and Gorkys Hernandez for nothing. Actually, for less than nothing because they didn’t have to pay Renteria’s salary last season.

Is that the best deal of the Schuerholz era, bar none?

By David O'Brien

February 1, 2009 12:56 PM | Link to this

By the way, a belated happy birthday to punk-rock legends Johnny Rotten (aka John Lydon) and Exene Cervenka of X. Both turned 53 Saturday. Yes, punk’s getting a bit long in the tooth….

By BravesFanInRockies

February 1, 2009 1:02 PM | Link to this

Chris from the Rock,

Good point. Here’s also something to consider. Some deals along the lines you discussed may not be happening because Manny, Dunn, Abreu, Griffey, etc., remain unsigned.

When a couple more corner OF find homes, then you might see some movement of minor players just to clean up and solidify rosters.

OTOH, I’m not so sure the Braves are eager to move Morton. Now healthy, he could be a sleeper this year. A lot better than he showed last season when he was injured.

By Tom

February 1, 2009 1:04 PM | Link to this

DOB—Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe has a column up this morning that there are 227 major-league players that are out of options going into spring training. This exact figure would imply that there’s a list of said players; do you have access to that list, and if so, who are the Braves that are going to have to be kept or released?

By Garla

February 1, 2009 1:04 PM | Link to this

I live in middle Tennessee and am debating going with Dish or Direct Tv this year. I know there was a lot of debate last year concerning Peachtree Tv. Can anyone tell me their experiences with Dish and Direct as it relates to Peachtree Tv being available and what they’ve heard about it this year?

By Lew

February 1, 2009 1:10 PM | Link to this

BravesFanInRockies-Add to that two exceptional seasons from Edgar Renteria with the Sox paying a substantial portion of his salary for those two years.

By jbutler

February 1, 2009 1:11 PM | Link to this

Bon Jovi or Bruce Springsteen? Are you kidding? Its more relevant to pontificate boxers/briefs. Plastic/paper. The Boss is just that. Bon Jovi is a band on a good streak- but give/take possibly 4-5 songs- the rest of the music could’ve been sung by any number of Poison/Def Leppard clones.

Wish the Boss would lay off the political hype though.

By Gil In Mechanicsville

February 1, 2009 1:13 PM | Link to this

My question is who the Braves are going to expose to waivers if and when they sign Glavine/Ohman/a left fielder…. It is why I think the Braves may find a trade to their liking for a power bat because it frees up some roster space. Likley candidates are Blanco, B. Jones and Diory Hernandez as trading chips.

I know Buddy Carlye and Jeff Bennett neither one will get by Washington as badly as the Nats need pitching, especially cheap pitching…

By TommyP

February 1, 2009 1:13 PM | Link to this

DOB: A poet he may or may not be but poets should stick to writing….singers should stick to singing.

Strange things occur when they venture outside their realm.

By Steve from OH

February 1, 2009 1:16 PM | Link to this

Lew, Asphalt Ballet’s good, a solid rocker. I didn’t dig Zodiac Mindwarp too much, but I’ve only given them a limited listen. Do you ever listen to the Alex Skolnick trio? I loves me some good jazz…

Regarding 2B vs. 3B, I played them both in high school, and I don’t think they’re really as comparable as people think. I think you can take a good athlete and make him into a good 2B, but not necesarily a good 3B, whereas you don’t necesarily need an outstanding athlete to play 3B—you just need someone that’s tough, with a “catcher’s mentality,” so to speak, willing to stay in front of some hot shots. All in all, I thought playing 2B was more difficult, because you’ve gotta turn a good DP, learn a bunch of cutoffs, have good soft hands, etc.—but that’s not to sell 3B short. It’s a lot tougher than some of you non-3B think (as my buddy that played SS my senior year, for instance).

Hey DOB: why don’t you tell us what you really think about Bon Jovi?

By YankeeDawg

February 1, 2009 1:17 PM | Link to this

Canadian bands, you guys left out Rush!

:-)

Favorite Pavement song: Summer Babe.

By Lew

February 1, 2009 1:35 PM | Link to this

Steve-Not into jazz in the least, though I’ve heard Skolnick with Savatage, Testament and Trans Siberian Orchestra and liked what he’s done with them.

Have you checked out Jon Oliva’s Pain? Keyboardist/singer from Savatage/Trans Siberian has a great CD out-hard rock to moderate Metal-called Maniacal Renderings and apparently released a new album last March which I have yet to hear.

By N8

February 1, 2009 1:48 PM | Link to this

OK DOB, wanna play that game?

“I had a friend was a big baseball player back in high school He could throw that speedball by you Make you look like a fool boy Saw him the other night at this roadside bar I was walking in, he was walking out We went back inside sat down had a few drinks but all he kept talking about was…”

Inspiring stuff indeed. How ever did he come up with it?

I asked the question last night, and nobody wants to answer it. What do you think Springsteen himself would say about Bon Jovi? Just a question. I realize that it calls for speculation. But answer the question. They’ve shared the stage many times together at each other’s concerts and various benefits. Can’t imaging why the Boss would stoop so low as to “associate” his good name with such crap.

Anyhow, not gonna argue “lyrics” with you, either. At least specifically. They too are subjective.

Besides, all lyrics pale in comparison to the Star Spangled Banner. After that, it’s all just what makes you smile, cry, or whatever emotion you want to feel when hearing a song. I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again. Some songs are moving with the “mood” and music, the raw energy that they bring to the table. Other’s can move you with lyrics alone. No matter how s** the song is.

Take “Everybody Hurts” from REM. Quite possibly one of the single most ANNOYING songs that I can think of. Lyrically though, it’s FANTASTIC. Moves me every time I hear it. Just so long as I don’t turn the channel before it’s over.

I don’t understand what’s so hard for some people out there to grasp on this subject. I consider myself one of the most open-minded music fans out there. For the life of me can’t put my arms around why others aren’t the same way.

Must be a lotta ignorant people in the US, huh?

mbatl

Funny. Well done.

Lew

Glad to hear. Hope you eventually get it figured out (you will), because there is some good stuff on there (not sure how relevant it is.. but good, none the less).

Steve From OH

Glad to hear there’s another Kings X fan on here. Quite possibly, one of the most pristine 3-part harmonies (live) than any other band in their genre. Insanely good live. Albums ain’t to shabby either. But they’re a little out there, and not for everybody.

BravesFanInRockies

Not only did they get JJJ and Gorkys for “nothing”, they also got two pretty damn good years out of Renteria in the mean time. At a considerably lesser rate than the 13 million per, Furcal got from the Dodgers when he left.

Agree with you. Best trade, bar none, in JS’s Braves run.

McGriff coming in a close 2nd, and Grissom rounding out the top 3. One COULD argue that Grissom’s acquisition had the biggest impact, since the Braves won it all upon trading for him. But this one could turn out to be a long-term gem (maybe not Smoltz-like, but pretty damn good).

By Steve from OH

February 1, 2009 1:49 PM | Link to this

Lew, I’ve heard various clips of Jon Oliva’s Pain on youtube but don’t have any of his discs. I really enjoyed his work with Savatage though.

By dogsbrekky

February 1, 2009 1:50 PM | Link to this

DOB - Nick Cave

I should have said that Nick Cave and the Chisel songwriter collaberated on several albums…

FWIW - the ex lead guitarist of Cold Chisel does an awesome version of “GEORGIA”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y9G6_dnYdYA

By Yars

February 1, 2009 1:52 PM | Link to this

DOB…..whenever I hear Wanted Dead or Alive, I still get goosebumps. I know you do as well. :P

By Steve from OH

February 1, 2009 1:54 PM | Link to this

Lew, I used to not like Jazz either, but once I started taking guitar lessons from a jazz player I found a new respect for it, to say the least. Some of that stuff is pretty darn complicated.

By dogsbrekky

February 1, 2009 2:07 PM | Link to this

The Wiggles rate right up there with the following live acts I have seen

1. The WHO..
2. Rolling Stones..
3. Ian Moss..
4. Chisel..
5. The Boss..
6. Oils..

By David O'Brien

February 1, 2009 2:08 PM | Link to this

Yars, no doubt. It makes me wish I’d been a cowboy on a steel horse, with a loaded six-string on my back….

Good to see H8 is back, by the way. In his honor, a big ol’ cup of sad for everyone today on Super Sunday.

By N8

February 1, 2009 2:16 PM | Link to this

“Good to see H8 is back, by the way. In his honor, a big ol’ cup of sad for everyone today on Super Sunday.” DOB

Yup. Because I’m the pompous one who thinks ONLY my taste in music is what matters and everybody else’s taste is beneath it (and me).

Denial is a beautiful thing, isn’t it?

None of this is/was personal. Just callin’ it like I see it. But comments like the above, show that you’re taking it personally, which means the subject must strike a nerve.

Besides, in the past, you’ve mentioned an entire “bowl” of sad. Now I only get a cup?

You callin’ me fat?

By Lew

February 1, 2009 2:19 PM | Link to this

Steve-Tried to get into Jazz some years back. I had a friend who was big into McCoy Tyner and the like. Also used to hear a good bit of the Fusion stuff, too. I can appreciate the complexity and musicianship, but much of it just sets my teeth on edge.

Kind of like the band Soft Machine. I love Hendrix and Hendrix thought Soft Machine was a great band, but they gave me a headache and set my eyes to spinning. Just couldn’t deal with the somewhat schizoid nature of it all.

Nathan -I’ve listened to most of the CD’s and much of the music is good and much I didn’t already have (some I did). My main problem is not knowing who the bands are-just an information obsessed freak, I suppose. Not knowing drives me crazy (or crazier).

By NCBravesFan

February 1, 2009 2:29 PM | Link to this

N8 Down economy … a cup is the new bowl. :)

By cdog

February 1, 2009 2:48 PM | Link to this

IF THE BRAVES ARE GOING TO ADDRESS THE OUTFIELD SITUATION THEY NEED TO DO IT BEFORE CAMP START.WHY SIT ARROUND AND DO NOTHING?XAVIER NADY IS A PERFECT FIT. STOP SITTING AROUND AND LET OTHER TEAMS GET AHEAD OF THEM

By BravesFanInRockies

February 1, 2009 2:50 PM | Link to this

Garla

I’ve subscribed to both Dish and DirecTV. I like DirecTV a lot better because of the superior sports packages. Plus, from my experience, DirecTV’s programming tends to be a little less expensive than Dish’s — you’ll purchase a tier of programming and DirecTV usually throws in a few extra channels for the same price or even less.

By N8

February 1, 2009 2:51 PM | Link to this

DOB

I apologize for calling you pompous. It was uncalled for. Just seems that way some times. Not my style to call people out. Certainly not the guy who brings my Braves tidbits on a daily basis. My bad. I stand by my musical thoughts, as do you, I’m sure. But no need for name calling (including you calling me H8 - but I can take it).

This probably won’t be my last comment on this subject (A- because there is not any Braves news to discuss right now, B- because the SB is STILL 4.5 hours away and pregame crap is just that… crap, C- because I’m sure somebody else will rip back at me, and god forbid I let it go), but this is my take on your opinion(s).

Many times, I have seen you talk about newer bands (Nickelback, Fallout Boy, All American Rejects), when people ask you if you like them, as though they are not relevant because they are new, trendy, and (or) the current fad in our youth’s musical taste of today. Fair enough.

You’ve often stated that in 20 years, they won’t still be around and nobody will remember them. Also fair enough. More bands go by the way, than stand the test of longevity.

My guess is that you said the same thing about Bon Jovi back in the early to mid-80’s. Strangely enough, here they are. Still going strong.

Whether their lyrics are earth shattering (they’re not), politically motivated (they’re not), or anything more than words to go over their “soundtrack like” sounding anthems, isn’t important. Their lyrics mean nothing to me. The music they’ve put out TODAY means even less. But when I hear tacky tunes like Dead or Alive (I mostly like the stuff before they hit it big), it reminds me of my youth, and how free being a teenager was.

Isn’t that worth something, thus making it “relevant”?

25 years ago, they released their first album. Amazing how the world has been “tricked” into liking them for so long, huh?

Let’s see, The Boss was born in 1949, his first album came out in 73. JBJ was born in 1962, and his first came out in 84.

Math seems about right to me.

I just think you are a victim of your age and generation. It’s the first sign of getting old. As soon as you hear yourself utter the words “so and so isn’t like it used to be”, that’s a sign.

I’ve done it. We’ve all done it. I’m just open minded enough to realize that the next great band of 25 years from now, might be putting out their debut album now or in the past couple of years.

My guess is that when the Beatles came out, the “older” generation that liked Elvis (who’s parents probably didn’t like Elvis either), probably said… “These long-haired hippies from England couldn’t hold Elvis’ jock - if he wore one”.

My dad thinks that Mickey Mantle was the greatest thing ever. I tend to think that Tony Gwynn, Call Ripken Jr., and George Brett are pretty darned good.

Each generation has it’s own views and are gonna be hard pressed to change those views. Which is fine.

Again, sorry for calling you out. I enjoy the back and forth of the music nonsense as much as the Braves talk. Didn’t mean to cross the line. Didn’t mean to ruin anybody’s SB (the NFL does a good enough job of that by themselves).

Enjoy your day.

By N8

February 1, 2009 2:52 PM | Link to this

NCBravesFan

Thanks. Made me laugh. Now I’ll need two more cups, to try and keep up wih my negaholic ways.

By David O'Brien

February 1, 2009 2:59 PM | Link to this

N8, I’ve never seen a grown-up get quite as defensive as you do about the subject of music. I just don’t understand why you feel the need to try to justify what you like, to defend it for some reason.

I mean, isn’t it enough to say you like this band or that, without bringing me into the discussion or making some absurd comparison of some band you like to some other band in order to feel better about it?

It’s like you feel the need to cut off the criticism at the pass, before anyone can even make it. I mean, I couldn’t give a rat’s arse if you like Bon Jovi or Whitesnake or anyone else. But you can’t leave it at that, you always have to either mention me in the same paragraph, as though you expect me to comment. Believe me, if you don’t mention me, I won’t.

(Lew talks about hair metal bands all the time, and do you seen my respond to that?)

Next time you mention your love of Bon Jovi, Whitesnake or any other band, try addressing others without mentioning me and see I write one thing about it. I absolutely would not, because it has no interest to me whatsoever.

People ask my opinion about this band or that, I answer them. But you have to jump in too often, because perhaps I was once critical of some lightweight band you adore or whatever.

Dude, relax. Start your own blog if you feel the need to comment on everyone’s post that aren’t directed at you.

You just look silly sometimes when you go into these long debates (with yourself) about why no musician should be criticized, and god forbid they be criticized by a non-musician (nevermind that some of the great rock critics of our time play no instrument or have any musical talent, and have openly admitted it. And by the way, I’m no rock critic nor profess to be. I just state what I like on this blog that I write).

I would just add that you being a musician (and you’ve certainly reminded us of that enough), you sure do have a taste that runs toward some artists that aren’t exactly held in high regard by serious music-minded folks, be they musicians or critics, etc. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, but why try to compare those groups to artists that they simply shouldn’t be compared to? Isn’t it enough to simply like the music?

For instance, I love Rick James’ stuff, particularly his early stuff, his first four or five albums. Love it. But I would never be so ridiculous as to say he belongs in the same sentence as James Brown. Or that he’s a serious musician on the level of Prince.

Another example: I love early KISS, because I grew up with it and it still sounds pretty good to me now (just talking about their first five or so albums). But I’d never compare them to Led Zep or The Who. I don’t feel the need to defend KISS as some hugely important, serious band the way Led Zep is, even if they were wildly popular. It’s two different things.

You can love, say, Beyonce’s music and her whole persona and looks, without feeling the need to compare her to someone like Nina Simone or Aretha Franklin. They should never be compared on artistic merit, even if Beyonce has already sold probably 10 times as many albums as the late, great Simone sold in her lifetime.

If you like Britney Spears, fine. Good for you. But I hope you’d never compare her to, say, Dusty Springfield.

OK, that’s all. And you’re right — a bowl of sad for you, not a cup.

With that, I’m gonna ride my steel horse — it’s about 60 degrees out here in Atlanta, too nice to be inside reading your comparison of Bon Jovi to Springsteen.

By Random

February 1, 2009 3:16 PM | Link to this

TommyP: “Great contribution to the blog with the excerpts from periodicals of one George Herman Ruth from Baltimore.”

Thanks — I tried 2 or 3 times late last night to also post the link, but it never took. (It’s an awfully long URL, and an awfully big document.)

I’m going to try one more time later today with minimal verbiage — likely just a blue “Shannon 1920”.

If that doesn’t work, I’ve got another idea.

The whole article is 30+ paragraphs — I only excerpted 4 to avoid copyright infringement.

I’ll let you know when I’m successful.

BravesFanInRockies — Thanks for the level-headed Boras-Ramirez history. I was unaware of that, and did not pick up on it from the previous heated comments.

Chris from the Rock: “offering essentially the same serivce, for lack of a better word,”

Oh, I don’t know — I’ve thought of a better word already. (Wanna guess what it* is?)

8-)

(But seriously — take care not to demolish our bench or pen; we’re gonna need ‘em both.)

Steve from OH — thanks for the 2B/3B insights. I had ignorantly assumed 3B was the more difficult position. (Prob’ly ‘cause I’m more than a little rag-armed.)

Do you think there’s a chance KJ might man the corner after Chipper’s departure?

*”service”

By Najeh Davenpoop

February 1, 2009 3:23 PM | Link to this

In John Perrotto’s Every Given Sunday column, Perrotto feels Tom Glavine will inevitably re-sign with the Braves.

Link available at www.mlbtraderumors.com

By KC

February 1, 2009 3:25 PM | Link to this

Scientists have discovered a dormant gay gene that can have little if any effect in adolescence, but has an increasingly dramatic effect throughout adulthood. Researchers base their findings on the evolution of Bon Jovi’s music.

By Najeh Davenpoop

February 1, 2009 3:28 PM | Link to this

By the way, while I love this blog and its great Bravo gab, this has become the most ”touchy and sensative” blog I have ever read. Thanks for all the inside info, but maybe keep all the personal and sarcastic heartache. Its turning into a conversation with my mother-in-law, no offense to my mother-in-law.

By N8

February 1, 2009 3:34 PM | Link to this

DOB

Fair enough, well explained and stated politely.

But I have to comment on the following line:

“I just don’t understand why you feel the need to try to justify what you like, to defend it for some reason.”

I still think you’re missing the point. It’s NOT about what I like or dislike. It’s about what YOU like and dislike, and how you state it, along with insinuating that people who do like what you don’t, are beneath you and the “critics”.

That being said, as I said in the first line of this response, you made youself much more clear in your 2:59 post. You clearly have stated that there is much music that you adore (or have nostalgic value placed on), that you don’t consider to be “ranked” in the all-time great category.

I’m cool with that. It has appeared in past posts, that you have deemed some music that isn’t critically acclaimed to have value at all. I realize that that is NOT your stance.

You choose to seperate music into categories. Stuff you like. Stuff you don’t like. Stuff that is great because the critics say so, and so on.

I tend to lean towards two categories. Stuff I like. Stuff I don’t. I don’t bother dissecting whether something is relevant before listening to it. If I like it and it’s not critically hailed, that doesnt’ bother me. If I don’t like it, but the critics do, that doesn’t bother me either.

Also:

“I don’t feel the need to defend KISS as some hugely important, serious band the way Led Zep is, even if they were wildly popular. It’s two different things.”

As a KISS fan, I agree. And I actually like KISS more than Zep. But I feel as you do. From a musical standpoint, Zep is far more important. From a live performance standpoint (which is all KISS ever thought of themselves), they broke the seal. Sure Alice Cooper and the NY Dolls were doing obnoxious things live. But to my generation, (which is where MOST of the 80’s groups got their over the top live shows from), KISS is every bit as relevant in the grand scheme of things.

But musically, yes. Zep kicks their azzes. No argument here. I had a buddy (probably around your age), who’s two favorite bands are Kiss and The Beatles, say to me “you can say kiss sucks and I’m not gonna argue, but if you say that about The Beatles, be ready for a fight”.

In the end, ironically, I agree with you. Springsteen is more relevant than Bon Jovi. Never really said otherwise. Just don’t conisder Bon Jovi to be IRRELEVANT, as you appear to.

Anyhow, hope you enjoyed your horse ride (assuming you’ll not read this before you get back).

Whether you buy it or not, I appreciate the response. I would promise to not butt into other’s conversations on the blog, but you and I both know that’s not even close to possible.

By Mr. J

February 1, 2009 3:50 PM | Link to this

When I was a lad back in seminary school, there was a man there who put forth the proposition that you can compare Jon Bon Jovi to the Boss….that youcancompare Bon Jovi to the Boss…

YOU CANNOT COMPARE BON JOVI TO THE BOSS!!!!

Well actually you can, but if you want to be taken seriously you have to offer cogent arguments which support your beliefs. Its not good enough to say “My opinions are OK and your opinions are OK” if you want anyone to respect those ideas.

In the arena of ideas, the gladiators must do battle. Its perfectly fine to challenge prevailing wisdom and orthodoxy. In fact, its essential. So if you like Barry Manilow, tell me why. Sell it. Make me a believer!

By Random

February 1, 2009 3:55 PM | Link to this

cdog: “XAVIER NADY IS A PERFECT FIT. STOP SITTING AROUND AND LET OTHER TEAMS GET AHEAD OF THEM”

I’m not sure he’ll ever again perform as well as he did the first 3/5 of 2008 when he was still with Pittsburgh (.330/.383/.535).

Did you realize he hit only .268/.320/.474 after joining the Yankees last year?

Now, I’m not sayin he’s not better than any OF the Braves had last year — just don’t base your plans and expectations on his Pirates swan song.

song

song

Well, N8, I was just this close to reassuring you that “pompous” couldn’t be nowhere near half as offensive as “pretentious and oh-so-hip musical blathering”, and that you probably hadn’t crossed any kind of line or nothing, but now I think I’ll just keep my nose clean here on the sidelines of Super Bowl MXYZPTLK.

Cheers!

By nolie

February 1, 2009 4:02 PM | Link to this

I know Buddy Carlye and Jeff Bennett neither one will get by Washington as badly as the Nats need pitching, especially cheap pitching Gil-Mech

No they wouldn’t. I am a Bennett fan, he throws a huge number of ground balls. I like himfor the prn in the groundball out situations.. He’s not flashy but had an ERA+ of 115 last year and is a very much under-appreciated pitcher here IMO.

By frankie knuckles

February 1, 2009 4:04 PM | Link to this

* N8* Do you realize that DOB, the Braves beat reporter ( people would kill for his job) has asked you to quit being such a music Nazi. Man, you are entitled to your music preference. I too, love music, but I appreciate the fact that a guy who has insider info on the Braves is willing to chat with “the fans” as much as DOB does. Don’t screw that up man, please. Go Cards ( since they beat my Panthers )

By Thrillhouse44

February 1, 2009 4:20 PM | Link to this

Journey is on! Woohoo! Does anything say “Super” more than Don’t Stop Believin?

By StingerSplash

February 1, 2009 4:33 PM | Link to this

As someone who didn’t exactly rebel against the music played in the parking lot of my high school (a nod there to Patterson Hood’s Three Great Alabama Icons) and knew every song by Def Leppard, ZZ Top and the great, great Midnight Star (still love “No Parking on the Dance Floor”) … because that’s what the hot chicks were listening to! I’d go home and listen to The Doors and some early Beatles in my quiet time. That and some Hank Williams Jr. at my buddy’s house.

Did not realize it was John Lydon’s birthday. I knew there was a reason I reached for Never Mind … as I went to some event at somebody else’s church today (and I had “God Save the Queen” cranked as I pulled into the parking lot.)

And is anyone else a little troubled that DOB reeled off some Bon Jovi lyrics a little too quickly?

The DBTs will be on Austin City Limits on Feb. 7.

By Lew

February 1, 2009 4:39 PM | Link to this

Najeh-You actually have conversations with your Mother In Law? Why?

By WrenFlops

February 1, 2009 5:07 PM | Link to this

I really hope Atlanta doesn’t trade for an outfielder. I don’t want to see any of the young talent traded to provide stopgap help until the young guns arrive. Sign a free agent for a year or two, then let these prospects begin to filter in. I get back to the question, “Will trading top prospects make an appreciable difference for next year?” If the answer is “no”, then don’t make the trade.

By Random

February 1, 2009 5:09 PM | Link to this

TommyP —

All my linking attemps have failed.

Here is the URL — you can copy and paste it into the address pane of your browser.

By mike mangan

February 1, 2009 5:32 PM | Link to this

JUST HOW MUCH OF A DETRIMENT WOULD ANDRUW JONES REALLY BE?BRING HIM TO SPRING TRAINING HE IS STILL ONE OF THE BEST CENTERFIELDERS TO PLAY IN THE LAST 14 YEARS.EVERYBODY SAYS HIS BAT HAS GONE SOUTH WELL WHY NOT LET A.JONES PROVE EVERYONE WRONG ANDRUW THEIR IS NO PLACE LIKE HOME.LETS BE REAL FRANK WREN AND WELCOME ANDRUW BACK.HE CAN MENTOR BOTH FRANCOER AND SHAFER AND HELL HIT MORE HOMERS THAN THE 27 THE BRAVES OUTFIELD HIT LAST YEAR.LETS BE REAL HERE AND PULL OUT THE NUMBER 25 JERSEY AGAIN…..MIKE

By chrisklob

February 1, 2009 6:06 PM | Link to this

Najeh-You actually have conversations with your Mother In Law? Why?

This is, by far, the best question that I’ve seen here in some time.

By proeye

February 1, 2009 6:17 PM | Link to this

Mangan… Andruw Jones had perhaps the WORST season in major league history—especially when you factor in the pay. To think this followed a horrible season while on the Braves squad which was only eclipsed in futility by Jeff Francoeur. What more needs to be said?

Let’s have a vote: Who had a worse season? Corky Miller or Andruw Jones? LOL

The complete and utter lack of discipline and even common sense—no one with that kind of talent should have ever sunk that low—shows you what kind of player and person he is: completely hard headed, arrogant, stubborn to the absolute maximum (after the entire southern half of California lambasted the guy for a year—how could anyone but Andruw have taken that kind of severe beating?). Yeah, that’s the kind of leadership the Braves need!

By Mike

February 1, 2009 6:21 PM | Link to this

I am watching it late, so I don’t know if this has been talked about or not…but is the the WORST pre-super bowl show ever? NBC is an absolute joke. They aren’t funny or insightful, and the only 2 guys that I even have the slightest desire to listen to is Collinsworth and Costas, and they are barely on the show. And is it just me, or does Dan Patrick and Kieth Olberman absolutely annoy the PI$$ out of you?

By jed

February 1, 2009 6:27 PM | Link to this

n8

you’ve found a reason to justify listening to creed? CREED? really? tell you what…you just keep posting about music. this is actually kinda entertaining.

By David O'Brien

February 1, 2009 6:43 PM | Link to this

Lew, Jed: You’re cracking me up. Lew, that 4:39 p.m. question, so true.

By David O'Brien

February 1, 2009 6:51 PM | Link to this

DOB—Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe has a column up this morning that there are 227 major-league players that are out of options going into spring training. This exact figure would imply that there’s a list of said players; do you have access to that list, and if so, who are the Braves that are going to have to be kept or released?Tom

Tom, ask and you shall receive (at least when I can make it happen). Here’s the list of out-of-options Braves, in alphabetical order: Anderson, Boyer, Gonzalez, Lowe, Lerew, Norton, Ross, Soriano, Stockman.

By Lawman

February 1, 2009 7:08 PM | Link to this

DOB, enjoyed the earlier music debate. Reminded me of the time one of my younger lady friends told me that the music I like is not popular & that Britney Spears may end up bigger & better that the Beatles. I gave her the facts, she lost it & went home early. I did see James McMurtry in Macon back in December. Great show & I’m enjoying his cd’s. Thanks for the tip! Been enjoying the new one from McCartney’s side project, The Fireman. You heard it?

By real talk

February 1, 2009 7:11 PM | Link to this

I’ll settle this argument. Bruce Springsteen and Bon Jovi both suck. There you go.

By Yars

February 1, 2009 7:14 PM | Link to this

mike…..I think Andruw wants a major league deal. I hope he hooks up with some team, just not Atlanta. I’d much rather see what Schafer brings to the table this spring. I also hope Wren addresses LF before spring training.

By Lew

February 1, 2009 7:35 PM | Link to this

Lord, Let us hope that Andruw NEVER mentors Frenchy. NEVER.

By StingerSplash

February 1, 2009 8:10 PM | Link to this

I know he’s only got a few minutes for the show, but Bruce just cut a whole verse out of “Tenth Avenue Freeze Out.” Hmmph.

By Jim

February 1, 2009 8:13 PM | Link to this

Re: out of options, etc. What can we get for a package of Boyer, Stockman, Blanco, Prado (and we keep D. Hernandez and Infante), Parr and Morton - all players who may not make 25-man team on opening day? Probably way too much for Nady, but would White Sox pick up some of Dye’s salary for a larger package of players - maybe not all these guys, but some of them, anyway?

By Najeh Davenpoop

February 1, 2009 8:14 PM | Link to this

I guess that is pretty funny. Let me do my best AJC Braves Blog response:

Najeh-You actually have conversations with your Mother In Law? Why? LEW

Oh, really? So I guess you hate family?

Uh, maybe YOU hate family. But I do not, sir. Nor do I beleive most here do, sir.

Insert some music lyrics here.

See…thats pretty funny, right? But yes, imagining myself talking to my mother in law, who is sarcastic and touchy about everything too, is pretty funny, I must admit. I was just rrying to point out that fact that maybe we could all lighten up a bit and not take ourselves so seriously. I will be the first.

Poop.

By Chopdawg

February 1, 2009 8:27 PM | Link to this

Anybody remember Timothy Johns? Supah Bowl Halftime “Tenth Avenue Freezout” just recalled a fine Saturday nite, several years ago ahem, house band there did a kicka$$ cover of that song

CHOP

By N8

February 1, 2009 8:30 PM | Link to this

Wow. I have to admit. After watching that heart felt performance by the Boss….

… my opinion hasn’t really changed one bit.

Dude is a good performer. I’d be shocked if his guitar was actually on though. Didn’t seem to notice any difference when he stopped playing.

Also, did I see The Boss end his performance with not one, but 4 “throw and go’s”? I thought only butt-rock guys did that?

Dude earns his money, that’s for sure. I’m sure when he’s not under “corporate” directions to play the hits and tunes that people under 35 will actually recognize, he puts on a great concert.

jed

Did you type something? I saw what appeared to be letters under your moniker, yet it read like the teacher from Charlie Brown sounds.

real talk

Clever. A bit funny, too.

By David O'Brien

February 1, 2009 8:31 PM | Link to this

StingerSplash: Come on, man. He had 12 minutes to try to squeeze in a few classics and part of his current single. Sounded good to me….

By David O'Brien

February 1, 2009 8:37 PM | Link to this

Steelers might turn this into a romp if the Cardinals aren’t careful. That final play of the first half was unbelievable. I mean, a 100-yard return as time expires … that’s like something you’d see in a movie or on Friday Night Lights, but not in real life — in the Super Bowl, no less.

By Lew

February 1, 2009 8:39 PM | Link to this

Najeh-Dude, you’re not a very good straight man.

By David O'Brien

February 1, 2009 8:50 PM | Link to this

H8: Now you’re being illogical, in addition to bitter for whatever reason.

Under “corporate” orders? Do you have any clue about what you say sometimes? Springsteen under “corporate” orders to play this or that?

Yeah, he was under corporate orders to open with “10th Ave. Freezeout,” Not “Born in the USA” or “The Rising,” not “Dancing in the Dark” or “Hungry Heart,” not some recent song that the under-35 crowd you cite might recognize, like “Radio Nowhere” or “Girls in Their Summer Clothes” from his recent Magic album.

No, no.

“Bruce,” the corporate guy says, “we need you to open with 10th Avenue Freezeout from 1976. Nevermind that it never did anything on the singles chart. It’s a staple of your concerts, and that’s what the under-35 audience at the Super Bowl will be looking for. Play it, or else.”

Nate, you really are hard to get along with. I’ll leave you be.

By Jim

February 1, 2009 8:50 PM | Link to this

From ESPN-MLB website re White Sox: “The biggest competition will be at second base, where relative unknowns Chris Getz, Brent Lillibridge and Jayson Nix are the favorites.”

Can’t believe they would not be interested in Prado - and willing to give B’s a few bucks towards Dye’s ‘09 salary, especially if we through in a few more prospects who are not going to make team.

White Sox payroll was $121 MM last year. Vasquez and Swisher are gone, but they are still over #100MM for ‘09. Maybe they need to bring it down a bit more. Suppose B’s cost for Dye this year would be around $8MM?

FW - hope you are thinking outside the box. Good moves so far.

If Glavine is healthy - good fifth starter - and only LH starter B’s would have.

Need Dodgers to sign Manny quickly, so they don’t wake up and sign Dunn, Abreu and G. Anderson for same $25MM. Yee gods - hope they don’t figure that out.

By brian

February 1, 2009 9:34 PM | Link to this

I can’t believe people here are mentioning Bon Jovi and the Boss in the same post. Aside from a New Jersey connection, is there anything else. Anyone who wants to say that Bon Jovi is as good as Springsteen should watch Bon Jovi unplugged on VH1 or MTV and then you will realize you got what you deserve. Absolutely the most painful 5 minutes or so of TV

By Ole Donk

February 1, 2009 9:47 PM | Link to this

Boy that Andruw was “lights out” in the winter league, he got up over .150. I can slot him in at clean up and forget about it, just like in 2007. Andruw could really help Frenchy with his hitting.

Wonder if the HOF knows my in game tactician skills? If so, I’m just a Cleveland Steamer waitin’ to happen.

By David O'Brien

February 1, 2009 9:50 PM | Link to this

Remarkable. What a turnaround. Can the Steelers answer with only 2-1/2 minutes left?

By jed

February 1, 2009 9:54 PM | Link to this

aw…nater’s got his nose outta joint. sorry, man. you’re the one that brought up creed. what did you expect? hey, look, i dont think you’re a dumb guy. your posts on baseball are usually well-reasoned, whether i agree with them or not. but when you talk about music, not so much.

quick example: springsteen’s not my favorite artist either. he’s just too dramatic for me, sometimes seems a bit contrived. i much prefer dylan, leonard cohen, lou reed, van morrison and several others. but listening to him, there’s no denying he’s a real artist, and whether he’s my personal cup of tea or not doesnt stand in the way of recognizing that. that, friend, is a legitimate relativist point. your attempt to equate bon jovi to, say, dylan and justify it through some loopy relativism doesnt cut it. you just wind up coming off glibly under-appreciative of what makes an artist an artist.

By joe

February 1, 2009 9:54 PM | Link to this

Wow, the Cardinals are really getting mauled. LOL. Love that safety! And on an unrelated note, where are those other 8 teams that were dying to sign Andruw by the end of this week?

By Scott Boras

February 1, 2009 10:09 PM | Link to this

Where Andruw at?

The grinning idiot is waiting for Godot and a box of doughnuts.

By StingerSplash

February 1, 2009 10:18 PM | Link to this

DOB, I didn’t say Bruce didn’t sound good. Hell, that was one of the best halftime shows the Super Bowl has had. Still put U2 at the top of the list. At the moment, it caught me a little off guard — I mean, you knew “Jungleland” wasn’t going to be a choice — but I did mention he only had a few minutes to do the show, rather than 3 hours and change he gets on a normal night. I guess if you’re going to cut out a verse, it would have to be that one — can’t axe the beginning verse and can’t get rid of the reference to the Big Man joining the band.

By Bubdylan

February 1, 2009 10:28 PM | Link to this

DOB, in case I forget to tell you, your love is like bad medicine.

By N8

February 1, 2009 10:29 PM | Link to this

DOB

“Now you’re being illogical, in addition to bitter for whatever reason.”

Illogical? Maybe. Bitter. Not a chance. What comment would you deem as bitter? Maybe I was out of line with the “corporate” comment. Whatever.

“Nate, you really are hard to get along with.”

Not really. But thanks for calling me “Nate” instead of H8.

jed

Thanks for the compliment on the baseball remarks. Believe or not, I appreciate it. As far as Creed? What’s the big deal? I didn’t say they were a good band. Scott Stapp is far from my cup of tea as a singer. But Mark Tremonti is a DAMN GOOD guitar player. Period. I thought I made that clear.

brian

You too are missing the boat. I never compared Bon Jovi’s and Springsteen’s music to each other. Just the relevance to their respective fans. I could go on, but you’d miss that point as well.

As for this comment:

“Anyone who wants to say that Bon Jovi is as good as Springsteen….”

Who out there said they were as good? Or one is better than the other? Not me.

Springsteen is a pretty damn fine song-writer. Not my bag as a singer. And I’m dead serious. Dude’s guitar wasn’t on (or at least up in the mix) tonight. But one could argue, from a playing standpoint, he’s the weak link in his own band. He’s a smart man surrounding himself with that band. Solid as can be.

And as I said. Dude is a performer. As a Kiss fan and a fan of people that actually entertain, rather than stand on stage and stare at their instruments (or like Eric Johnson and half the time don’t even face the crowd), he’s to be commended for that.

He’s a rock ICON. Never said he wasn’t.

On a side note. One helluva SB tonight. Couldn’t have asked for more, as a fan of neither of those teams.

By chrisklob

February 1, 2009 10:34 PM | Link to this

DOB,

You posted a list of Br

By chrisklob

February 1, 2009 10:35 PM | Link to this

DOB,

You posted a list of Braves that are out of options. I didn’t see Scott Thorman’s name there. Isn’t he out of options?

(Sorry, couldn’t resist!)

By Steve from OH

February 1, 2009 10:37 PM | Link to this

Wow, what a ballgame. Glad too see my Steelers pulled it out at the end, not only because I’m a big Steelers fan, but also because this Ohioan had a lot of money (relatively speaking) riding on this game.

Random:

Funny you should call yourself “rag-armed,” because my senior year I was coming off shoulder surgery and could barely get the ball across the diamond from 3B. I guess that clouds my opinion about having a strong arm a little…

By StingerSplash

February 1, 2009 10:39 PM | Link to this

N8,

With ya on the SB 43 assessment. Don’t care about either team, but that was one helluva game. I couldn’t stay awake long enough to watch all of the Nadal-Federer epic, but the last 24 hours in sports for championship events has been awesome.

By Tom

February 1, 2009 10:51 PM | Link to this

DOB—I sure hope the AJC throws you some sort of extra bone for the work you do keeping up with us bloggers. Wouldn’t surprise me if they didn’t, but for whatever it’s worth, I want to express my very sincere thanks for your efforts. I don’t know of any other beat writer in the country that does this sort of thing, where I could ask for an obscure tidbit of info, and someone would go find it for me. Trite as I may sound, that means something. As an aspiring sports writer (perhaps), I am impressed by this sort of concern for your audience. So…thanks, Mr. O’Brien. Thanks.

By Critically Acclaimed

February 1, 2009 10:52 PM | Link to this

Willie Nelson, an icon of country/outlaw/crossover/whatever music. Critically acclaimed and loved by the music media and fans alike. Fact is, Willie was past his REAL outlaw music, go against the Nashville, grain when he became a commercial hit in the 70’s.

Let me give you my view of Willie Nelson with this joke.

Know what the crowd at a Willie Nelson concert says when the liquor and smoke runs out?

God this guy sucks!

:o)

By Ralph

February 1, 2009 10:52 PM | Link to this

The braves, management needs to keep, their word. The braves, don’t need half-bake players, who can’t hit their weight. The braves, need to play with their heart in the game. The braves, don’t need terry pendleton, or any staffer that can’t or won’t bring out the best in their players. The braves, need to be motivated, not make excuses for their poor playing. The braves, don’t need for the manager to be one of the boys. The braves, batters need to hit of the t-bat, before they hit major league pitching. and the braves manager needs, to stop being so predictable, in his game plan.

By Bubdylan

February 1, 2009 11:10 PM | Link to this

Critically Acclaimed, generally speaking, Willie Nelson made the music he wanted to make. When Nashville didn’t like it, he bucked Nashville. When they did like it, he didn’t have to. For the most part, he wasn’t being an “outlaw” for the sake of breaking the rules.

By N8

February 1, 2009 11:10 PM | Link to this

DOB

I 2nd Tom’s 10:51. Whether you believe it or not, totally appreciate the time you put in. Whether it be covering the Braves. Whether it be responding to a question of mine, no matter the response.

I’ve got plenty to do in my life, but always find a few minutes (sometimes hours), to check the blog out.

Critically Acclaimed

That was funny….. and possibly true.

By Dan

February 1, 2009 11:13 PM | Link to this

Nady, haNDS DOWN!

By Dan

February 1, 2009 11:13 PM | Link to this

Nady, haNDS DOWN!

By Wayne in Utah

February 1, 2009 11:26 PM | Link to this

I was pulling for the underdog Cardinals. Too bad their “D” couldn’t hold em one more time. Harrison should have been kicked out of the game on that personal foul. That was chicken $hit at it’s best.

Cardinals punter really sucked tonight.

I’ve never been a Springsteen fan, haven’t really seen him in say 20 years or more… Seems unable to hit he high ones. Maybe it’s just a product of the years. Good show otherwise.

Keith Oberman didn’t start ticking me off today. He has been ticking me off for years.

By Superbust

February 1, 2009 11:48 PM | Link to this

The Superbowl halftime acts bother me. There, I said it. I SELDOM watch the half time show. I didn’t see The Boss tonight. I didn’t see Janet Jackson’s wardrobe malfunction. I didn’t see Paul McCartney. I actually watched Aerosmith’s performance a few years back and almost puked! Aerosmith isn’t exactly in my top acts list, but I lost any and all respect for the band that night. They did a couple of abbreviated tunes which segway’d one to the other. The whole thing was a joke with NSync and Britney Spears ending up on stage with the band and get this….choreography. Geezus! It was foul!

Paul McCartney was always the most “commercial” Beatle. His appearance didn’t surprise me. Then, the ultimate horror. The Stones performing at halftime! I watched that one. They didn’t suck, they didn’t rock their best. They played in the rain and they were the Stones, but geez it seemed so contrived. At least no one choreographed a dance number with them playing with some dumb azz American Idol winner.

I have no problem with some act who has been hot for a year and knows their candle is going to burn out maximizing their exposure to make all they can before it ends. If that act plays a SB, more power to them. But the Stones, Springstein, McCartney and the like don’t need the coin. They are swimming in cash! To me, a Superbowl performance by acts of that magnitude just screams sellout. Selling out is when you don’t need the exposure, money or fame, but you’re willing to be a sideshow at an event that appears under the definition of Hype in the dictionary.

Go back to 1969. Jimi Hendrix appears on “The Tonight Show.” He plays “Lover Man.” At the end of the tune, the Tonight Show Orchestra adds a ‘ta-da” stab. Hendrix didn’t need no “ta-da” stab by an orchestra at the end of his tunes. They just didn’t get it.

Just like that night on the tonight show, The Superbowl just doesn’t get it when it comes to presenting musical acts. It’s a terrible venue. It’s rushed, it’s stupid, and it’s far from a decent platform for your art.

Of course I was lucky enough to turn over to the game channel before kickoff in time to see Faith Hill singing some lame-azz, lyrics specifically for this game, video production. Tell me, is there anyone who is a serious music fan who digs that hypo stupid shat? When a main stream artist sings songs with the words Cardinals and Steelers in the chorus before a game, I rest my case.

Good game tonight. But when all is said and done, the Superbowl is 10% about the actual game and 90% about the hype leading up to and after the game.

By Kentavo

February 1, 2009 11:48 PM | Link to this

I’ll give Bon Jovi credit for Dead or Alive'' andBlaze of Glory” which are essentially the same song, but there’s a certain tuneless (but not on purpose, or that’d be cool) quality to his/their songs that I can’t quite put my finger on. I’ve never really respected ‘em after hearing an interview in the early 80s when good ol’ Jon dissed Pete Townshend - and that’s enough to write ‘em off in my book.

As for the Braves LF vacancy (sorry Diaz), what’s the deal with Garret Anderson - I know he’s kinda old and bats left-handed, but he played 145 games last year and put up some pretty good numbers.

By BravesFanInRockies

February 1, 2009 11:56 PM | Link to this

Of the out-of-options players, I’d say Lerew and Stockman would be most likely to clear waivers. Or be the first to be removed from the 40-man if a free agent is signed.

Anderson probably opens the season in Atlanta, even if Schafer tears it up and the Braves sign or trade for a LF. Hard to believe, but Blanco might need to have a good spring to not start the year in Gwinnett. I like him better than Anderson but understand Anderson’s appeal as a bench player thanks to his speed and defense.

By Wayne in Utah

February 1, 2009 11:58 PM | Link to this

I actually liked Kenny Wayne Sheperd a few years back (maybe 10 years?) at the Superbowl.

I thought the commercials were a bit weak tonight. Though I did like the Dorito’s one.

By Critically Acclaimed

February 2, 2009 12:03 AM | Link to this

Bubdylan,

you’re correct in your observation about Willie Nelson. He didn’t set out to be an outlaw going against the grain in Nashville, however, he played it for all it was worth when he gained wide commercial success beginning in the 70’s. Many folks who were/are fans of Willie, Waylon, Hank Jr. were drawn by the personna, as much or more than the music. These guys all used the “Outlaw” card like Rudy Guilliani used 9/11.

By KC

February 2, 2009 12:07 AM | Link to this

Wayne In Utah: I didn’t watch a second of Keith Olberman coverage. I would rather do crossword puzzles on Barney Frank’s lap that to listen that #$*&(^% for 5 seconds!

By mr baseball

February 2, 2009 12:08 AM | Link to this

Not sure if anyone on here has mentioned it the last day or 2, but Skynyrd keyboard player Billy Powell passed away over the weekend. At the rate things are going, might not be long before all the original members are gone. One of the greatest American rock ‘n’ bands of all time, but not exactly one of the most revered by the musical highbrows amongst us.

Did anybody catch Nick Lowe on last night’s Austin City Limits that aired in Atlanta? Just him and his acoustic guitar and he looked his age and then some. Only caught the last 2 songs, including an almost creepy, earnestly sincere version of “Peace, Love & Understanding.” If anyone caught it, curious what he played before it.

I’m betting no one had “10th Avenue Freeze-out” in their pre-SB pool of what songs Bruce was going to play. Guess the NFL wasn’t too happy he played a baseball song. At least he tried to football-ize it. Guessing that N8 did not approve.

By mbatl

February 2, 2009 12:24 AM | Link to this

Superbust, maybe he just did it because it was fun.

By chrisklob

February 2, 2009 12:25 AM | Link to this

I didn’t watch a second of Keith Olberman coverage. I would rather do crossword puzzles on Barney Frank’s lap that to listen that #$*&(^% for 5 seconds!

I would rather stick knitting needles in my eyes than listen to Olberman.

By David O'Brien

February 2, 2009 12:26 AM | Link to this

Stinger, I hear ya. Yes, U2 was a very good halftime show, but I think Prince might have been even better. But the Boss, he did a fine job. Great game, including halftime. Remember when Super Bowls always stunk? Not lately, and even the halftime shows have been great in recent years.

By the way, the song was actually done at the original album length tonight, right around 3 minutes. It’s just that live, 10th Ave is usually a 15-minute epic jam. But as you pointed out, he usually plays 3-hour shows instead of 12-minute ones.

By THE BEAR

February 2, 2009 12:28 AM | Link to this

As an old dude I am not much into modern music but I tried to watch the show tonight.

Then I come back here and read where one blogger said Springsteen had left out a part of one song. I have a question; how the h3ll do you know he did? It all sounded like a conglomeration of sheer noise. I heard no music and for sure I wasn’t able to discern any of the lyrics.

Oh yeah, I have known Willie Nelson since he was 29, I even promoted one of his shows in Miami’s Dinner Key Auditorium along with some other C&W stars of the time. I spent two days with Willie. He was still drinking Scotch those days. Twe night before the big show we tied one on and we sat in his hotel room as he picked and sang for an audience of 4 for hours. A night I’ll never forget.

Abreau is the only one who makes sense other than going with the young ones. Glavine should retire. Otherwise I think the Braves are pretty well set for the year. Andruw should change his entire approach or he should be ignored. Manny will never fit into any sensible clubhouse. Who the h3ll wants to put up with his crazy antics? He is a cancer and will cause untold trouble like he did in Boston. He can hit, no doubt about that but otherwise he is a loser.

By David O'Brien

February 2, 2009 12:33 AM | Link to this

mr baseball: Yes, Lew and others mentioned Billy’s passing. Hey, Skynyrd’s music will always sound great to a whole lot of us, bro. Like the Allmans, that stuff is timeless. When a Skynyrd tune pops up on my Ipod, it always makes me feel good. Great stuff….

Didn’t see the Nick Lowe show on Austin City Limits. Wish I had. The mellow album he put out a couple years ago was great, though a much more mellow sound than made him famous. And you’re right — he looks entirely different — old, but rather distinguished. Sure doesn’t look anything like the cat on the cover of the “Jesus of Cool” album…..

By Austin (Fire Frank Wren)

February 2, 2009 12:45 AM | Link to this

The refes owned the superbowl…disgusting

By SC James

February 2, 2009 12:49 AM | Link to this

DOB, www.afteraugust.net They are a great local band that I thought you might enjoy By the way, What a Super Bowl!!!! Even though I was pulling for the Cardinals it was a great finish.

By KC

February 2, 2009 12:51 AM | Link to this

chrisklob: That too.

On another note… I can’t hear John Madden anymore without picturing Frank Caliendo!

By David O'Brien

February 2, 2009 12:51 AM | Link to this

Tom, no problem. And thanks for the kind words….

By the way, we’ll get a new blog up tomorrow, folks.

By David O'Brien

February 2, 2009 1:02 AM | Link to this

bubdylan, thanks.

But I gotta say, There ain’t no paramedic gonna save this heart attack.

(ain’t Google great?)

By #1Brave

February 2, 2009 1:02 AM | Link to this

Agree with Austin…those 2 personal foul calls on the Cards defense that one drive was inexcusible (Cromartie simply touching the receivers facemask, and the roughing the passer call when it should have been intentional grounding)! It seems the last couple years that officiating has just gone to hell! Not just in football, but basketball too. Seems they feel the need to make an impact in the game when that isn’t their job whatsoever! Anyone know what I mean?

By #1Brave

February 2, 2009 1:06 AM | Link to this

By the way, Roethlisberger should have been named the MVP. He made all the plays happen with his amazing scrambling ability!

By MeToo

February 2, 2009 1:18 AM | Link to this

Know what the crowd at a Willie Nelson concert says when the liquor and smoke runs out?

God this guy sucks! *CritAcclaim8

funny you should say that., It’s exactly what i say when the booze and smoke run out while I’m reading your posts.

By N8

February 2, 2009 1:19 AM | Link to this

You can’t start a fire you can’t start a fire without a spark

By N8

February 2, 2009 1:19 AM | Link to this

This gun’s for hire even if we’re just dancing in the dark

By N8

February 2, 2009 1:21 AM | Link to this

Which actor from Friends did Bon Jovi bring up on stage in a “live” video to dance with them? I forget.

Alright I’m done.

Good night.

By N8

February 2, 2009 1:25 AM | Link to this

Actually one more comment. Non-music, at that.

#1Brave

You are correct. Rothlisberger or James Harrison (obviously that play changed the game), should have been the MVP.

My reasoning? If Holmes actually makes the catch on the previous pass play in the endzone (PERFECTLY thrown - and right through his hands), he doesn’t have to make the circus catch on the next play.

Time for people (myself included), to start recognizing that Big Ben is the real deal. He’s not always pretty. But he just get’s it done. Uncanny ability to move around the pocket, avoid trouble and find the open man.

I’m sold.

By GermanBravesFan

February 2, 2009 1:29 AM | Link to this

This was the first Superbowl in 20 years that I missed. I just couldn’t get myself to stay up until the early morning to watch it (it started at 1 a.m. local time). Sounds like it was a good one! Seems like Bruce at halftime wasn’t all that bad either… considering he only had 12 minutes…

By brAves Sucios

February 2, 2009 1:30 AM | Link to this

Hey DOB: noticed you mentioned Exene Cervenka’s birthday earlier, did you happen to catch John Doe at the 40watt Thursday? I planned to go but then remembered I’m completely broke, heard it was great. Maybe it will be up on Southern Shelter soon.

Also, I’m not going to argue artistic merit, but I’d still sit and listen to Jon Bon Jovi’s solo record of songs “inspired” by the film Young Guns II, Blaze of Glory. Equal parts brilliance and hilarity.

By Bubdylan

February 2, 2009 1:33 AM | Link to this

N8, there’s a fine line between simple and cliche, and a thick line between resonant understatement and filler lyric.

On second thought, I bet I’m going to get nowhere here. Peace.

By BravesAC

February 2, 2009 2:00 AM | Link to this

About the Springsteen talk: Thought starting out he was trying a bit too hard but a few minutes in it became the ebst Superbowl halftime I’ve ever seen. My wife said “What a good choice - a slice of Americana”. And rock is as American as anything. When the band was all done and they were standing in a line just taking in the moment around ‘em, I was happy for them. Springsteen’s got talent and paid his dues and you just got a feeling that that mmade up for a considerable amount of the dues his band has paid. Now the Super Bow’s over, it’s Feb….bring on the balls and bats and rookies and let’s “light this candle” as Dennis Miller says.

By BossLady

February 2, 2009 2:08 AM | Link to this

I’m feeling alright, I’m feeling too good myself.

Listen, my favorites are Grand Fund Railroad, Three Dog Night, The Eagles, Chicago and Elton John, Rollin Stones.

My husband plays surround sound much like DOB,

I don’t know who they are or what they are. All I know is he plays the surround sound 24/7 and these people are jamming to him.

I commented to DOB about his sound system and of the one we have. Don’t know what he said but i know they listening to all kinds of everything.

All I can say is that no one can decide what others listen to.

We live in the same house and share everything but listen to differant musis.

So, my point is that no one can decide what others list to. It is a shame.

I also like the O’Jays, The Spinners, The Chilites, The Temptations , and the Miracles.

See, he does not play those songs but we have it going on!!!!!!!!!!!

By BossLady

February 2, 2009 2:22 AM | Link to this

When I think about the Braves I know , I hate that Smoltz is not there. Also, i think that the players that we signed and chose are not my choises

By BossLady

February 2, 2009 2:26 AM | Link to this

To answer the question, I believe that the Braves should sign Ohman and leave Glavine and Abreau off the roster.!!!!!!!

IF WE CAN, SIGN GLAVINE. Abreau is off the map!

By Runnin

February 2, 2009 3:24 AM | Link to this

I hate that Smoltz isn’t here too, but he’s gone because he wanted to be gone. He had a fairly decent offer. He got antsy and jumped ship. Seems like many hope Glavine does the same.

By Lee in S GA

February 2, 2009 8:15 AM | Link to this

“Which actor from Friends did Bon Jovi bring up on stage in a “live” video to dance with them? I forget.”

N8

The only actor I remember from friends in a video is basically an unknow Courtney Cox at the time in a Bruce Springsteen live “Dancing in the Dark” video dancing on stage. I think around the mid-80’s sometime.

By Time for real Change

February 2, 2009 8:30 AM | Link to this

Im waiting on spring training. Heres what I feel.

If Hanson deserves the job out of spring training them bring him to Atlanta.

Glavine should retire. Its not last year, its the last 4 years. Glavine was washed up when he left Atlanta the first time. We have younger starters ready so use them.

The outfield needs a bat. If Schaffer is ready for center then put him there. Quit making excuses. Get a left field bat. There is no room for another year of Anderson, Jones and platooning players.

What the braves need is consistancy in the rotation and on the field. Without that we have nothing. So get busy and look at the talent thats ready and use them instead of trading them.

By Time for real Change

February 2, 2009 8:30 AM | Link to this

Im waiting on spring training. Heres what I feel.

If Hanson deserves the job out of spring training them bring him to Atlanta.

Glavine should retire. Its not last year, its the last 4 years. Glavine was washed up when he left Atlanta the first time. We have younger starters ready so use them.

The outfield needs a bat. If Schaffer is ready for center then put him there. Quit making excuses. Get a left field bat. There is no room for another year of Anderson, Jones and platooning players.

What the braves need is consistancy in the rotation and on the field. Without that we have nothing. So get busy and look at the talent thats ready and use them instead of trading them.

By Gil In Mechanicsville

February 2, 2009 9:15 AM | Link to this

Hey Chris, why don’t you tell us how you really feel about Oberman.. :-)

By David O'Brien

February 2, 2009 9:46 AM | Link to this

braves sucios: I didn’t see John Doe at the 40 Watt, but I saw him a little over a year ago at Smith’s Olde Bar. Puts on an terrific live show, really does. The man’s put out a string of outstanding solo records.

By David O'Brien

February 2, 2009 9:49 AM | Link to this

BossLady, sounds like you’ve got it going on with the old-school soul/R&B. Gotta like that, mam.

By David O'Brien

February 2, 2009 9:57 AM | Link to this

Anyone see the special post-game episode of The Office last night? Hilarious. Beginning with Dwight’s all-too-real fire alarm and Stanley’s heart attack. Classic stuff.

By stamper

February 2, 2009 10:02 AM | Link to this

My favorite moment during the half time show… when Bruce slid into the camera, crotch first. He had this really uncomfortable look on his face immediately following… hysterical.

apart from that, how bout the ridiculous ‘delay of game’ moment. i know a lot of you are big Bruce fans, but come on! that was totally lame.

By Steve from OH

February 2, 2009 10:08 AM | Link to this

DOB, the office was great last night. I loved the part when Dwight cuts up the CPR dummy. Priceless.

By Lew

February 2, 2009 10:20 AM | Link to this

Bubdylan-Resonant understatement. You’ve got a way with words, Dude. That one’s good.

Najeh- Who’s on first? Could I perhaps suggest a short tutorial on humor from Bubdylan?

By Original Jon

February 2, 2009 10:43 AM | Link to this

Hey DOB I watched The Office last night, and it truly was hilarious, probably one of, if not the best episodes of the season. The part where Angela threw her cat up into the ceiling and it came crashing down on the other side was killing me.

Great show!!!

By Lew

February 2, 2009 11:01 AM | Link to this

Excuse me-Did Nathan come up with that term? Maybe I’ve been scrolling past lyrical arguments too often.

By BravesFanInRockies

February 2, 2009 11:06 AM | Link to this

My schedule doesn’t let me watch The Office much but last night’s epidode was great. Among the excellent moments was the first scene with the suits where Michael starts off sitting beside Dwight and then when it’s obvious the fire drill didn’t work he completely flip and winds up on the other side of the table crowded up next to the corporate dudes.

By StingerSplash

February 2, 2009 11:17 AM | Link to this

DOB,

I’ll defer to you on the Prince halftime show choice. I don’t remember it. Musta been drinkin. Got a friend of mine who’s a manager at a metro Atlanta bar who saw Prince on the Hit and Run tour some years back. Now, this here is an older fella, probably in his late 40s to early 50s at the time and he said Prince put on the best show he’d ever seen — and he caught the Stones in an unannounced warmup gig for the Steel Wheels tour. Great Super Bowl. Thrilling end. Now let’s get to some baseball. Finally.

By DAP

February 2, 2009 11:18 AM | Link to this

i havent been able to read the blog or comment for several days, so i wanted to give my opine on the main blog for a moment.

i think nady makes the most sense for the braves. the one year thing to me isnt bad, since we have some young outfielders on thier way up. i see it as a good thing, and hopefully it means the yanks will take less for him. i like nady because he plays good defense and hits from the rightside, and is definitely a middle of the order hitter at this point in his career. he can easily bat 5th, and we could get by with him batting 4th if bobby thinks its necessary.

its too bad the pirates signed hinske, because i thought he was a great option for a platoon with diaz. he hits righties very well, with good power, and plays good defense. also, signing him would have left enough money to maybe still get both ohman and glavine. hinske signed with the pirates for only $1.5mil. diaz/hinske could have been a 25 homer 100 rbi tandem in LF for only $3mil. the bad thing about that would have been that neither one would have been a middle of the order kind of hitter, more like 7th or so.

By Najeh Davenpoop

February 2, 2009 11:42 AM | Link to this

Lew Yes, suggest away.

I thought my original mother in law line was pretty humerous. You have to get into the setting. You know, you walk into the wife’s house, and try your best to start some conversation. And it always seems that no matter what you say or ask, most the time just harmless questions or off hand generic comemnts, she always finds a way to take offense and sarcastically sounds as if she is just miserablly justifying every mood she has as intellectual fodder.

“Hey, Mrs. fillintheblank. Boy the house looks nice.”

“Really, It looks just like it did the last time you brought my daughter home last September…”

“Yeah, the weather has been good. What do you think?”

“What do I think? I think it all looks the same from inside a house you have to spend all day cleaning. Must be nice to be able to get outside once in a while.”

It was an attempt at humor, but maybe a failed attempt, in the eyes of the Lew. Just a try. In life, all you can do is try. I appreciate you taking my call and love the show. I will hang up and listen. Thanks.

By John H

February 2, 2009 12:03 PM | Link to this

“The Office” is without a doubt the funniest show on television.

By Frank

February 2, 2009 12:10 PM | Link to this

Springsteen was cool for halftime but wished they could’ve had someone like Shania Twain or Sheryl Crow in some tight black leather pants. That would be quite the show, IMO.

N8/DOB

May I add a group to your discussion….

how bout ZZTop?

Their version of Elvis’s Viva Las Vegas is a rockin’ song as well as their songs Legs & Givve Me All Your Lovin’*

By Najeh Davenpoop

February 2, 2009 12:16 PM | Link to this

PS. I must give you props, Lew. My original comment was an attempt at pointing out ‘over sensative’ responses and within 24 hours, after reading my own post moments ago, I felt as though I was justifying my own sensativity. Irony.

Tosche (I dont feel like looking up the spelling of TOO-SHAY).

And because it must always be said twice,…

tosche.

By Greg O.

February 2, 2009 12:21 PM | Link to this

Classic episode of The Office last night… one of the best shows on TV… boom…roasted.

By Lew

February 2, 2009 12:22 PM | Link to this