Chop Chick

By geekboy

April 11, 2008 8:03 AM | Link to this

This may be cheating, but I would give Bobby Cox a magic wand of pitcher repair! Then, he could have Hampton, Soriano and Gonzalez all healthy (and improved versions of John Smoltz and Chuck James too).

I think that would make the Braves very tough for the long haul. I am actually not worried about the slow start. The Braves’ depth will overcome.

By Lee in S. GA

April 11, 2008 8:22 AM | Link to this

If you had a magic wand that would make one change to this team, what would you choose?

I don’t know if “one” change could make that much of a difference at the present time. It seems like the Braves are just in one of those slumps that teams go through. Hopefully they will get a little hot streak going before long.

By Yehuda Hamer

April 11, 2008 8:35 AM | Link to this

It seems like every offseason there are lots of moves made by teams to get middle relievers and closers. This appears to be hit or miss. They have one great year and when joining another team, that season isn’t as good. Pitchers that come through the system needs to have higher pitch counts so they can develop better, being patient is the key. You can have many 100 rbi caliber guys on a team, it will always come down to pitching, look at the 1988 Dodgers. Y

By TrueFan

April 11, 2008 8:37 AM | Link to this

The only thing I would do to change the team is wake up their bats!! If they start hitting as a team, they will have one of the top offensive teams in the majors. It will eventually come around though, so no worries!

By Bob Anglea

April 11, 2008 8:42 AM | Link to this

Move Bobby Cox to the front office as General Manager, like he was when he put together the championship team that lasted 14 years and get a new team Manager.

By Michael McCarthy

April 11, 2008 8:56 AM | Link to this

spend more money on pitching. It’s too late this year but maybe next year. The braves were great when their pitching was great. No surprise now that they suck.

By Gomer Pyle

April 11, 2008 9:06 AM | Link to this

Cancle the season.

By Gomer Pyle

April 11, 2008 9:07 AM | Link to this

Cancle the season.

By Old Coach

April 11, 2008 9:14 AM | Link to this

** Fire Bobby Cox , pitching and hitting Coach. Get some new blood with new ideas. The players and coaches are in a rut, To comfortable, same old thing over and over. Cox is to easy on players, they don’t have to bunt, run, take infield etc. Spring training is for new players, old players don’t get in shape. Not ready to play. TP is a joke for hitting coach and the pitching coach #%@& I want even go there. Thanks Bobby for the good you use to do but ceased. Now its time to move forward…..

By rekkidbraka

April 11, 2008 9:22 AM | Link to this

Geez, Chop Chick, only ONE magic wand option? I’m a greedy girl and I demand my magic wand come with accessories like “quit counting on the big multi-run homer,” “steal more bases to manufacture more runs” and “stop throwing junkballs; this isn’t the AL.”

But since we’re limited for the sake of argument and I don’t want to tick off my best buddy geekboy, I’ve got to agree with the “spend more on pitching” option, the caviat being that the pitchers be QUALITY stock - not the re-treads the Braves keep finding at whatever Last Chance K-mart they’re frequenting when things get tough mid-season. Because the guys from that K-mart? Never produce nearly enough actual Ks.

By Jeff

April 11, 2008 9:23 AM | Link to this

I’d make it a requirement that Frenchy take every first pitch. I agree with Old Coach about TP. He’s a joke as a hitting instructor. Frenchy looks like he’s swatting at bugs, swinging at everything except strikes.

By Jeff

April 11, 2008 9:23 AM | Link to this

I’d make it a requirement that Frenchy take every first pitch. I agree with Old Coach about TP. He’s a joke as a hitting instructor. Frenchy looks like he’s swatting at bugs, swinging at everything except strikes.

By BN

April 11, 2008 9:23 AM | Link to this

Patiences — too early to panic…Young pitchers must learn to pitch to locations (unless they can throw 100mph) …….position players must learn to hit to all fields (singles and doubles are ok)…left field must be reevaluated (sorry Matt - too slow to react or just too slow)I believe this is a good team with good leader ship…Love the Braves…

By Bill

April 11, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this

Atlanta fans its your year to lose.take it like a man and quit winning.The Braves have had thier run now its time for somebody else to win the division.Now go drown in some grits.

By Bill

April 11, 2008 9:31 AM | Link to this

Atlanta fans its your year to lose.take it like a man and quit winning.The Braves have had thier run now its time for somebody else to win the division.Now go drown in some grits.

By richbrave

April 11, 2008 9:34 AM | Link to this

CHOP CHICK:

Last fall I was screaming for the Braves to keep Renteria and acquire both Aaron Rowand for center and Johan Santana for #1 pitcher. We chose (D) none of the above.

(1) Renteria for Escobar - O.K. Yunel is a talent, but he’s still a rookie. Last year this time he was in Richmond. He will be as good as Renteria in time, but he will go strictly for the money. Liberty’s purse strings better be loose and capable of stretching once the man hits his stride. We could have had Renteria for the duration of his productive life, but I still like the trade. Youth for the unknown future. Those are the risks with that deal.

(2) Kotsay was a good pickup and I believe will be an adequate center fielder. Maybe even for Andruw. AJ’s not playing well, not conditioning himself and not going to last much longer in MLB if he doesn’t turn it around. But in dealing for Kotsay the Braves painted themselves into Schafer’s corner. And now look where they are. At this point you’ve got to live or die with JS. Get him free of whatever problem he has, get his head back on straight, square things with the league, and pray to God that something artificial wasn’t the reason you made those moves in the first place.

(3) Santana’s gone, but not forgotten. He’ll be around periodically for seasons to come unfortunately. After the deal was done, I talked to a former minor-league scout who said the man had long-term damage in that arm. So I backed off insisting that Santana was a good move. At that point I had no idea who should have been added to the staff. The Braves chose Glavine which is fine by me. And so far he’s going fine. Of course. for five or six not eight or nine.

So the move - NONE. You’ve made your moves. Gotta’ live with your convictions until time and events change things. Time for change next year.

By Jeff

April 11, 2008 9:36 AM | Link to this

Hey Bill…just for your info, we’ve been losing. It’s 2008 not 2005.

By richbrave

April 11, 2008 9:37 AM | Link to this

BILL:

Go take your pill and sit down, or the white coats will be around to see you.

By GT81

April 11, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this

Hit some line drives instead of trying to kill everything.

By by johnny

April 11, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this

Instead of getting pitchers that have had some type of injury in the past and are a question about their recovery, get solid healthy ones.

By Orly in Wis

April 11, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this

First thing I would do is purchase dinner buckets for Cox and his entire staff and have a farewell party for them and wish them well in the “Dinner Bucket League” to which they belong. “Get a 8 to 5” job in the working man’s world.” Cox and his staff are all too comfortable in their little “clique” of buddies. Just because this Manager and his staff of ex-players played the game doesn’t automatically make them good coaching material. I think that Mr. Magoo could do as well as this “clique” is doing. Sincerely, A “true” Braves fan

By Jersey Gil

April 11, 2008 9:57 AM | Link to this

I will replace the Pitching Coach, Here in Philadelphia yesterday in 950 Espn radio Leo Mazzoni was interview and Jody Mc asking what team he is watching now that he is not working, and his response was The Braves…he still follow Smoltzy,Glavine…so he is Waiting to the Braves make the moved.

By poorbrave

April 11, 2008 9:58 AM | Link to this

Good morning Richbrave. What’s your take on J. Anderson? Should he be in Atlanta playing now? Who would you bring up ? I agree with you on Schafer and his problem, I pray that he gets it worked out. Got to go to work in Valdosta,Ga today. May stop by Drews place. Be back tonight.

By Jersey Gil

April 11, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this

The Bat is not ours Problem, we are second in the League in scoring run, Slg % and third in Avg as a team, Pitching is failing us, Fire Mcdowell hire Leo.

By I miss Sid

April 11, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this

Call for a season do-over…

By Ye of little faith

April 11, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

I wish that Brave’s fans would have a little faith in this young season. I agree with the wishes of health, but with the Marlins in first and the Royals in first in their divisions, things are going to change. Old coach, I think you meant won’t not want. This is still a powerful lineup that has wasted some great starting pitching. Let’s not throw in the towel just yet.

By Mike B

April 11, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this

As for the comments by Old Coach, one reason so many people like the Braves is because they don’t have completely new faces every year. I guess your talking about changes like Detroit made this year. And yea, Chipper didn’t work in Spring training and he’s not ready to play. They’ve lost what 4 games by one run. The topic of “How would you turn the Braves around” at this point, is ludicrous. I guess the media is just playing with this “instant gratification” society we have become. The only negative comment I would make about any Brave at this point is Martin Prado. The kid has a lot of ability, but he needs to work on intestinal fortitude. I couldn’t believe he dodged a hard hit ground ball with a runner on 2nd last year in Chicago and then he does the same thing again this year in the Mets series. No one is going to run away with this division. Let’s let them beat up on each other for a while and see how it shakes out. The Braves have the talent to get it done.

By richbrave

April 11, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this

DOWN ON THE FARM

Richmond-Braves: game 7.

position—-player—-a—r—h—bi—-avg

cf———-ANDERSON—-3—0—0—0—-.379

ss——LILLIBRIDGE—-4—1—1—0—-.138

lf—————JONES—-3—1—1—0—-.259

dh———-BORCHARD—-3—0—0—0—-.304

rf————-TAYLOR—-2—0—1—0—-.429

1b————THORMAN—-3—0—1—2—-.048

-c————-FASANO—-3—0—0—0—-.429

2b—————-HOLT—-3—0—1—0—-.222

3b————TIMMONS—-1—0—0—0—-.077

===========TOTALS==25==2==5==2

DP: 2. LOB: 5(38)*NOTE: Does not include game 6. 2B; Jones 1(5). S: Anderson (1).

Morton solid in his second start of the season. DeSalvo in relief gets the win, but allows one of two inherited runners to score on two straight walks.

pitching——-IP—-h—r-er-bb-so—-era

——-MORTON—5.2—2—1—1—3—4—0.89

——DeSALVO—1.1—2—0—0—2—0—0.00

—-STOCKMAN—1.0—0—0—0—1—0—4.39

—SCHREIBER—1.0—0—0—0—0—0—9.00

WP: DeSalvo. S: Schreiber.

Josh Anderson was lights out in the field yesterday and not with his bat for a change. THREE stellar defensive plays the last of which turned the game around. In the fourth, a diving catch off his shoe-tops. In the sixth, a blast to the gap in right-center is hauled in on the warning track, and the play of the game, a ball off the wall in center which Anderson threw from deep center to the plate to nail the second potential Buffalo run and kill their only offensive threat of the game. Anderson’s second assist of the season.

SCOTT THORMAN rips a liner off the third baseman’s glove and into the outfield getting him off the snide and scoring Lillibridge and Jones.

By Ezzo

April 11, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

In the Braves 2-1 loss to the rockies Monday kelly Johnson leads off the ninth with a single. Instead of having Escobar (great bunter) sacrifice him to second Cox lets him swing away in to a double play. The first four games of the season the bullpen was over worked because of Cox’s changing pitchers every batter for the lefty righty advantage.If a pitcher cannot face more than one batter we do not need him. Lastly the Resop pitching ( giving up two walks)to left field and then bringing him back to give up the gain winning hit. Also taking Diaz’s bat out of game when he was due up second in the ninth. I would think Bobby Cox needs to manage according to the talent he has not the talent he had in past years.

By richbrave

April 11, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this

poor brave:

Anderson not quite ready for prime-time. Needs some added seasoning, but soon. A definite late-season call-up. Sooner depending on his results here, and the needs of Atlanta. The young men here are still developing. Spiezio is ready as he’s going to be I suppose. Canizares has done well so far. As a bat off the bench in Atlanta maybe. Pitchers too soon, too soon to tell much. Morton will be up by the end of the season I think.

By ATLbravo

April 11, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this

Fire Bobby. It is no wonder they have one of the worst records in one run games in the last three years. This team is not built to play Bobby’s philosophy of waiting for the homerun. It just isn’t going to happen with these guys. Get him out of there. They won’t have another winning season till he leaves

By Billy Wells

April 11, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this

Trade Chip Carey to the Chicago Cubs for Carlos Zambrano. CC …. you did say magic wand.

By Lee in S. GA

April 11, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this

richbrave -

I see Thorman’s average is consistent wherever he plays……

By Old Coach

April 11, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this

Thanks,you’re right- (won’t). I do have faith but not faults faith. I have no Faith in Bobby but I do the players.

By SAMMY THE HEAD MILLER

April 11, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this

I Sammy do have a magic wand and i will use it to curse the Los Mets forever!

By 82DAWG

April 11, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this

Its too late to do much for this year, but the organization, as a member of the lower tier payroll teams, must improve their drafting and development of pitchers. The formula the Braves used to build their successful 14 year run was pitching, defense and timely hitting. They are still depending on 2 of those pitchers from 17 years ago. What has happened to all those pitchers drafted in the ensuing 16 years? Not one capable arm has been drafted and developed to take their places? That must improve. If ownership is going to force them to operate on the budget of small market teams like the Milwaukee’s and Minnesota’s, they have to draft and prepare young players in mass to replace those that are lost to free agency. These bandaids applied each year won’t win championships.

By alan from Atlanta GA.

April 11, 2008 11:12 AM | Link to this

I would fire McDowell the pitching coach. This is his third season and the bullpen has been a disaster ever since he came. The starting pitchers have been good for the most part, but the relief staff is awful. When something is not working the way to change it to change coaches. I’m not saying to bring Leo back at all, but a change is indicated, when the relief staff continues to blow games and mess up good pitched games from the starter.

By alan from Atlanta GA.

April 11, 2008 11:12 AM | Link to this

I would fire McDowell the pitching coach. This is his third season and the bullpen has been a disaster ever since he came. The starting pitchers have been good for the most part, but the relief staff is awful. When something is not working the way to change it to change coaches. I’m not saying to bring Leo back at all, but a change is indicated, when the relief staff continues to blow games and mess up good pitched games from the starter.

By jimjones

April 11, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this

Maybe they could get some hitting with a new hitting coach. What is Chippers dad up to these days? Chipper goes to his father when he’s in a slump, so I say lets give his dad a try. Lets find out what it would take to get Jones senior up here.

By Brian

April 11, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this

Mix the color up in the dugout…remember when you won the world series. But hey the Braves get the pat on the back while the other Atlanta franchises get thrown up under the bus if the loose one game..the Braves are not the same Braves as the past..the will not win the division but hey at least yall got the color you wanted and the representation that says welcome to the DEEP SOUTH BOY!!!..lol

By Daybed Wagmoe

April 11, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this

Trade Chris Resop to the Mets!

By Brian

April 11, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this

Mix the color up in the dugout…remember when you won the world series. But hey the Braves get the pat on the back while the other Atlanta franchises get thrown up under the bus if they loose one game..the Braves are not the same Braves as the past..the will not win the division but hey at least yall got the color you wanted and the representation that says welcome to the DEEP SOUTH BOY!!!..lol

By Brian

April 11, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this

Mix the color up in the dugout…remember when you won the world series. But hey the Braves get the pat on the back while the other Atlanta franchises get thrown up under the bus if they loose one game..the Braves are not the same Braves as the past..the will not win the division but hey at least yall got the color you wanted and the representation that says welcome to the DEEP SOUTH BOY!!!..lol

By Harry Potter

April 11, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this

My one change would be the immediate and enduring good health of MikeHampton MikeGonzalez.

By TBraveFan

April 11, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this

I like the idea of taking a Mulligan at this point -

• but if I had a magic wand, it would be a healing wand - something for Eddie to keep out in the bullpen for the entire pitching staff to use as needed

By 82DAWG

April 11, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this

Alan, Brian, you only have to hit the Post button ONCE. It says below - There will be a delay of up to 5 minutes before your comment appears. Please follow the directions.

By It's true

April 11, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this

This white son of South Georgia agrees with Brian. We were better when Fred, Terry, David, Marquis, Kenny, Brian, Michael, Jermaine and some of the other brothers were with the team. What’s up with our roster now?

By Mt Braves Fan

April 11, 2008 11:42 AM | Link to this

I would change up the bullpen a bit, bring up one more young kid, maybe Morton, and send Boyer and Resop through waivers if they have to. Other than that, this team is fine, they’re going to hit, and let’s not forget they’ve only played 9 games. Francoeur concerns me, because nothing seems to ever change with him, but all in all the offense will come around and be dominant enough to win a whole bunch of games. Just need a little help in the pen.

By Hoosier Aaron

April 11, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this

I’d clone John Smoltz 10 times.

Starting, middle and closing problems solved.

Even at 85% - he’s still a monster.

By Carroll

April 11, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this

Bobby should go back into uppr mgmnt—after all, he was the architect of the 90’s dynasty. Replace him with someone who understands on-field strategy, including basic principles such as: don’t waste your closer in a blowout game because you might need him tomorrow; and if your number four hitter is hitting like a pitcher, by gawd make him your number 8 hitter for a while or maybe even bench him for a few; and don’t waste one roster spot on a backup catcher who can’t catch, thus requiring you to waste an additional roster spot on a 3rd catcher who can’t hit!!!!! So on and so on and so on … .

By AGTfan

April 11, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this

If I had a magic wand I’d get some better fans.

A few more like richbrave would be nice. Thanks richbarve for keeping us posted on what’s going on in Richmond. Could you move to Gwinnett county next year?

By ga_tech_92

April 11, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

My one change would be to give them the same payroll of the Red Sox or Yankees. MIIIIGHT just make a difference over time :)

By Greg

April 11, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this

Grill me all you want, but i would sign….

BARRY LAMAR BONDS

Pay the guy a $2 million guaranteed incentive-laden deal and tell him that he will have one locker, no entourage, no recliner/tv/etc and make sure there is an escape clause for legal issues.

Teams have all of the leverage right now with Barry and all he wants to do is play. He will hit and if he platoons, say, with Matt Diaz, he will be the best bench player in the league. no-brainer

By One Man's View

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

One poster suggested to quit playing for the homerun. Sorry, the Braves don’t have the contact hitters needed for small ball. Unfortunately, both Texeira and Francouer seem to not have a clue. I guess if they swing enough some pitcher will hit their bats.

By NCBravesFan

April 11, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this

I’d wave my magic wand & give fans the ability to understand that nine games does not a season make.

The Braves are fine. Relax everybody.

By Rick

April 11, 2008 12:19 PM | Link to this

Plain and simple: Get a Coach!!

By rekkidbraka

April 11, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this

Has anyone found Bill’s special helmet yet? He can’t get on the short bus without it.

By Cro25

April 11, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this

I would bring back Bob Horner.

By BigGTMike

April 11, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this

Something along the lines of pick a random team and offer them our entire bullpen for their entire bullpen and see what happens.

By Doug in Tucson

April 11, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this

In MHOP this team could use a better bench,maybe Spezio eventually will add a decent bat and some versatility.Gotay has helped but honestly are we going to compete with the Mets picking up players they discarded? The bull pen gives me the willys,anyone else notice Yates has done fairly well as a Pirate so far? Maybe we can get a utility player for a Boyer & Moylan package,or at least a ball girl? A solid left fielder would help,then Diaz could assume the role he did terrific at the last two seasons.I like Diaz but don’t see him as a every day outfielder. Pitching is not easy to come by,especially starters but a Bronson Arroyo or Matt Morris type would be a big shot in the arm.Smoltz and Glavine may make it through the entire season but after that who can say.

By Doug in Tucson

April 11, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this

In MHOP this team could use a better bench,maybe Spezio eventually will add a decent bat and some versatility.Gotay has helped but honestly are we going to compete with the Mets picking up players they discarded? The bull pen gives me the willys,anyone else notice Yates has done fairly well as a Pirate so far? Maybe we can get a utility player for a Boyer & Moylan package,or at least a ball girl? A solid left fielder would help,then Diaz could assume the role he did terrific at the last two seasons.I like Diaz but don’t see him as a every day outfielder. Pitching is not easy to come by,especially starters but a Bronson Arroyo or Matt Morris type would be a big shot in the arm.Smoltz and Glavine may make it through the entire season but after that who can say.

By Bill

April 11, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

Its time for B Cox to step down and help out upstairs (we know he would never get fired). He has done a lot for the Braves but I also blame him for the fall of A Jones. The team is too comfortable in his system and just not fundamentally sound (which is not good in one run games). Need to add one good arm to the pen and two strong bench players. Also need all the big guns to stay healthy.

By Jim K

April 11, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

Assign McDowell to roving minor league pitching instructor/scout.

Bring back Leo Mazzone, with the proviso that Tim Hudson gets the same independence Greg Maddux received.

By TN Jeff

April 11, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

Learn/practice small ball. Smoltz & Glavine are the ONLY Braves who can lay down a sacrifice bunt. Cox has NEVER concentrated on the basics & the team is always waiting for somebody to hit the game winning homerun. ONly have 1 clutch hitter -Chipper.

Lack of small ball costs us each 1 run loss.

By Mackey Sasser

April 11, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this

Doug,

Please stop posting. Wanting to package Boyer & Moylan for a utility type when Moylan is easily our most effective pen pitcher right now is absurd enough. Wanting to bring in vastly overpaid and sadly over the hill Matt Morris may beat it in absurdity though. And, by the way, Gotay is a cast off from the Mets only because they insist on having as old a roster as possible. He is far better than the old bones he got cut for - Jose Valentin. Bone up on this baseball thing or quit polluting the rest of us with your silliness.

By Will

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

Firing Bobby Cox would be the one move to change the direction the Braves are in. He is a great manager, one of the best ever. But his BS spins on real team issues are just plain old. He is loyal to players to a fault. I think the attitude amongst the Braves leads to back to him and it has cost them having more world series titles and is still dragging them down this year.

By ChampDawg

April 11, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

By Falcon

April 11, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

Fire Bobby Cox’s dumb A. He makes the worst personnel decisions in the History of baseball.

I would also Delete Resop and Chuck James from the Braves organization and go after real players….you know like the normal teams in baseball.

I would also get rid of the Hick atmosphere that exists at Turner field. HEEEEEE-HAAAAAAW. And that dumb A song of the south that is played at the 7th inning stretch. “Thank god i’m a country boy!” Is this baseball or a freakin Hoe-down.

Last but not least, Bring back the true wizard behind the Braves 14 year run Leo Mazzone, and let him make all the Pitching decisions. Let him Rock to his hearts content.

By Tana

April 11, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this

I would de-selectify Tex. He is waaaaaay too patient. If you could get a medium between him and Frenchy on swinging at pitches, they would both be batting .300. HOw many times do pitchers throw coasting first pitch fastballs down the gut of the plate because they KNOW that Tex will not swing at it.

By Susan

April 11, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this

The only thing I reall see wrong is the hitting. They never never never make a pitcher work. They swing at the first pitch and swing at balls very low and away.

Oh there is one more thing. Bobby needs to stop being so sweet to the pitchers. Letting the reliever load the bases for someone else to fix it is dumb. A reliever goes in and walks someone, let him walk right back to the bench. I think Cox gives way to many games away by staying to long at the party with relivers that cant get the job done.

By tj

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

To; NCBravesFan

I agree 100% with your 12:14 post. I don’t know what kind of baseball some of these people ( I can’t call them real fans ) are used to watching. There’s 153 games left, 9 games is not the time to panic and make wholesale changes. First it was get rid of Bobby and get Jim Leyland.Looks like he forgot how to manage too. Then it was get rid of Tyler Yates, now it’s look what he’s doing. I believe this team will be in first place, or challengeing, at the all star break. There will probably be some tweaking but 9 games does not tell you a whole lot in a 162 game season.

By RollTide

April 11, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this

Get rid of Chipper Jones. He’s been worthless for the past couple of years and try to get some good young pitchers not the old men we have now!!!

By Cro25

April 11, 2008 1:06 PM | Link to this

Bring back Nick Esasky

By Cro25

April 11, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this

Chipper is the only one producing. Where you been?

By Shamus Thacker

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

I’d waive a wand over Hammy’s head and turn him into the amount of cash he’s stolen from the Braves.

I’d then sign Tex.

I’d require that Tex actually take spring training seriously. He was liftin n’ stretchin when he shoulda been working on his swang! He’s finding his swang during the early part of the season, which is unacceptable. THIS is HIS spring training! That’s why he’s sucked early, and why we’ve struggled so mightily to this point.

By ken

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

Braves are middle of the pack in payroll. During the run of the 90’s they were at the top. Now they are missing the playoffs. We need to spend more money. I’m not saying we should be like the Tigers & Yankees and try to buy a W.S., but we need to pay our own and spend some on other key positions. For one Lock up Tex & Frenchy long term. Tex, Frenchy, B-mac, and Yunel need to be our core for the next ten years. We have an excellent farm system and we can continue to plug in the other areas and trade away prospects who are blocked(e.g. -Salty & Andrus). When we aquire said talent (Tex) we need to lock them up ASAP!

Pitching! Pitching! Pitching!- When was the last time the Braves develped a “Good” pitcher from the minors and kept them on the team?…..Avery? Milwood?….Schmidt was traded. Wainwright was traded. If we cant develop this position then we have no choice, but to buy it. (eg Maddux & Hudson)……We needed Santana in the worst way. We need younger better pitching…..and if we have to pay for it then so be it!

By Shamus Thacker

April 11, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

Cro25, you’re a genius!! We could bring back Esasky, sign Mackey Sasser and Mark Wohlers to long-term deals, and hire Dr. Phil as manager…

By Q DAWG

April 11, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this

SPEED + SPEED + SPEED = MORE AFRICAN AMERICANS PLAYERS….

By Q DAWG

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

SPEED + SPEED + SPEED = MORE AFRICAN AMERICANS PLAYERS….

By Q DAWG

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

SPEED + SPEED + SPEED = MORE AFRICAN AMERICANS PLAYERS….

By David C

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

I would fix the bullpen, i think once atlanta ges that fixed i think were gunna be fine plus with our depth were going to be able to overcome this slow start

By prattvillenolzfan

April 11, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this

Hey I agree with the 12:01 post from Greg…If we are going to give Spezio a 2nd chance, why not Barry Bonds….I think that he has been very humbled the last few months, by giving him an incentive laden contract, we really don’t have all that much to lose….As much as I enjoy Diaz,(it’s hard to criticize my fellow Noles),having Bonds creates the lefty/righty platoon again, and gives Cox the option to have a legitimate bench bat..As for everyone else, I still think it’s too early to panic…..worry maybe….but not yet panic….

By bravefanatic

April 11, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

like chop chick said we need teixeira to come out of his slump. and get gonzalez back and healthy and the braves will be at the top of the division at the end of the season

By Greg

April 11, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

One thing I would do is be patient and let the first month play out before doing anything.

Sure, Soriano and Hampton would be helpful, and Tex hitting. But let’s wait and see how much time they miss before panicking.

By prattvillenolzfan

April 11, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

I hit send by mistake….didn’t get to finish my post….Bonds would fit in with the Braves because he knows up front that the Braves HAVE NEVER OR WILL NEVER put up with the Me first attitude that Barry exhibited with the Giants. The Giants allowed Barry to be Barry…He wasn’t that way when he played with Leyland in Pittsburgh and he won’t be that way with Cox in Atlanta……Sheffield and Bonilla were considered malcontents before playing in Atlanta, and neither one of them had any problems….I say give it a shot…..

By Michael

April 11, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

The Braves should let Chuck James stay in Richmond. James has no business in the big leagues. Cox need to start cracking the whip. He is to loyal to his players. McDowell need to go as pitching coach. Bring Leo back.

Michael

By bravefanatic

April 11, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this

and do we really think barry lamar bonds will settle for being a bench player come on Greg

By Shamus Thacker

April 11, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this

I’d be tempted to transform Bill Gates into an Atlanta native who ADORES/BUYS the Braves. Boras would insist that Gates lower his first offer for Tex; you know, to keep his other clients happy with relative chump change.

By The Crab

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

The wand needs to be used to smack the heads of certain individuals with a few of these suggestions

By richmondBrave

April 11, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this

Someone needs to tell Tex that it’s time to actually try and get a hit or two a game, and until he starts hitting but Mac in the 4 spot and move tex to 6 or 7. If Tex were hitting as well as AJ was last year at this point we would have a better record. it suckes to see Chipper left on base all the time.

By deep_intoyour_mind

April 11, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this

I would cut the contracts of Hampton and James and then go out and get another starting pitcher. The Braves need one more young ace. Smoltz and Glavine are getting up there in age and we need another force to make our starting rotation the best in the majors. Thats how we won 14 straight titles. Imagine Hudson, another ace (Beckett,Santana,Peavy, etc.) Smoltz, Glavine, and the 5th spot. The Braves would be the force again in baseball.

By bobby

April 11, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this

The best move would be to get a manager that knows when to change pitchers.

By richbrave

April 11, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this

LEEinS.GA.:

Sad but true. The guy has to get over himself. I don’t know him so I can’t say why his head is a mess, but you can see its not a physical problem. Just don’t think Brundige has too much patience with him. My take on the comments in today’s Richmond paper, but I’m sure he’s following instructions from Atlanta to give Thorman enough rope to hang himself. MY TAKE on the matter. You know about opinions——everybody got one.

By monty

April 11, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this

You can’t win the pennant in April and May but you can sure as heck dig yourself a whole that at the end of the season you will look back and say,”you know if we had just won a few of those close ones in April we would be in the play-offs now instead of being home watching them on T.V.

By Shamus Thacker

April 11, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this

I’ll consider myself cracked, Crab…

By Kev

April 11, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

Hey guys what is wrong with all of you. Hey we are haveing a slow start the braves are going to be fine just as they are.It was cold in Col thoes guys are use to playing in that type of weather. Braves are not.Yall watch the braves are going to beat the hell out of a lot of teams this season.

By Ed Glennon

April 11, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this

Tex is another example of a Scot Boras dud. It takes a jerk to hire a jerk and the pressure to make so much money makes them duds. Take sixth place hitter Andruw Jones hitting .126 after a year of .222. Or maybe Mr. Hot Tub JD Drew. He is only a game or two away from the DL. Don’t count your money too early Tex. I know we all have to take care of our family $12 million, $25 million, what is a family to do these days.

By jason

April 11, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this

Terry Pendleton replaces Bobby Cox.

By Cro25

April 11, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

Bring back Craig McMurtry

By Lee in S. GA

April 11, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this

RollTide

I am assuming you are down on Chipper because of his injury issue. It certainly cannot be because of his overall hitting the past couple of seasons. Last time I checked Chipper and McCann were about the only consistent hitters so far this year also. I really don’t think Chipper has been the problem; if anything, it has hurt the Braves when he is absent from the lineup.

By Burke

April 11, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this

Some of you “Braves” fans are making me nauseated. Fire Bobby? Fire the coaches? Seriously? Like someone said earlier, it’s all about instant gratification with Americans these days. We’ve played NINE GAMES! ARE YOU KIDDING ME? You want to fire Bobby after 9 games? I wish those of you who are being completely irrational will go jump on the Mets bandwagon where you belong. We don’t need you trashing the Braves every chance you get.

As for what I would do with the magic wand…..I’d have the players play better defense. I can think of 3 of those 1-run loss games where errors cost us runs. Sloppy defense will never win you games. But like I said, it’s 9 games into the season, the rust will wear off and the Braves will be fine. And then all the people that hate Bobby and the coaching staff now will love them and hope they never leave. Please, all you fairweather Braves fans, LEAVE! We don’t want you! The Mets do! Go Braves

By roman88

April 11, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

to get remlinger back, the way he pitched a few years ago. get maddox back, they all could play golf together again, if not already

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)

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

It would take more than one change to improve this team.

Nothing can be done for the pitching, injuries and inconsistency will happen, we just have to be patient.

The one thing that would be an immediate improvement, putting Diaz on the bench and bringing up Josh Anderson to play LF and lead off. Kelly Johnson has that bum knee and can’t really offer much in the way of small ball.

This makes the Braves a better defensive team and adds the element of speed and base running ability at the top of the order.

The other thing is to swap McCann and Tex in the batting order temporarily until Tex starts hitting the way we know he can.

By smithdaddy

April 11, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

Bobby Cox is a great manager, the one thing he is clueless about is how to move his and use his pitchers. He has more than anyone declared that a starting pitcher cannot go more than 6 innings. This is real simple, when they took Smoltz from the bullpen back to a starter that triggered everything else, think about it….I don’t care what he wants I put him in the pen. stop juggling every one else top accomodate the move I love Smoltz but if he don’t like it go somewhere else and play, you can still live here and be respected. If Glavine has a shutout and can’t go more than 7 he’s gone too. Cox has never played for the game at hand, that’s why he can’t get the one in the bush!

By VaBravesfan

April 11, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this

Why in the world would you want to get rid of Chipper? He is the only hitter the Braves have at this point.

By lstee04

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

There are a few things that could be done to fix the braves. First off , Im a die hard braves fan and always will be but maybe its time for bobby to call it quits. What may have won games for us in the 90’s isn’t working now! The days of 1 and 2 run games are over. We have to manufacture runs any chance we get. Bobby is not bunting runners over nor is he attempting to steal bases. This is killing us when “mac” or “frenchy” or yunel get doubled up after a leadoff single or walk. Start doing the small things and stop relying on the long ball. Bring up Josh Anderson and platoon him either with kotsay or diaz and utilize the speed. Diaz appears to be a better hitter when he is in a platoon situation anyways.

By Lee in S. GA

April 11, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this

Agree that Diaz is better of as a platoon and bench player. There is a reason he has never been a starter after all. Anderson appears to be ready.

coach also agree that Tex needs to be moved down to 5th at present time: however, knowing Cox’s managerial decisions the way we all do, that is not going to happen. Look at A.Jones last year.

By Gran Jen 1

April 11, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this

I’m not hitting the panic button yet; gosh, it’s only 9 games into a long season. No one can predict injuries, (except maybe for Hampton!). For my magic wand wave, I’d want Francoeur to quit trying to be AJ! And Bobby is the best of the best, and all you people who don’t like him; why don’t ya find a new team to complain about… Long live the Braves!

By Singindablues

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

I would wave my wand and make it impossible for any Brave’s batter to attempt to pull an outside pitch. Especially on the first pitch! How many times I’ve groaned to see atempts to pull an outside pitch, see the batters hands roll over with the resulting weak groundout to kill a rally.Is this not a fundamental that we teach in th minors? Andrew was the worst at this and that’s why he was never a clutch hitter. To be fair we have some players who use the whole field but not enough.

By Randy Head

April 11, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this

The Braves haven’t won since basestealing threat left at top of lineup. At least put Escobar leading off. RH

By BUSHWACKER

April 11, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this

“Players glad they canceled the game” thats’ not a good sign.

If I’m on a losing streak I cannot wait til the next game.

NO GUTS, NO FIRE IN THE BELLY!!

Bobby has been the best mgr in baseball the last 15 years, but we are at that dreaded plateau.

He simple does not make the players the best they can be.

We need someone to light a fire, someone that HATES LOSING.

I know he is not elligible but that moron Bud Selig should realize it would be good for baseball.

We need Pete Rose to manage this team!

By BUSHWACKER

April 11, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this

“Players glad they canceled the game” thats’ not a good sign.

If I’m on a losing streak I cannot wait til the next game.

NO GUTS, NO FIRE IN THE BELLY!!

Bobby has been the best mgr in baseball the last 15 years, but we are at that dreaded plateau.

He simple does not make the players the best they can be.

We need someone to light a fire, someone that HATES LOSING.

I know he is not elligible but that moron Bud Selig should realize it would be good for baseball.

We need Pete Rose to manage this team!

By Ariel

April 11, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this

I would change the entire administration. The Braves have become a team of poor-performing players that only look good playing for our team. As soon as one of our players leaves the Braves for another team, he is sent to the minors. This illustrates the fact that Braves players only perform good in Atlanta because they are sorrounded by equally mediocre players. I do not mean to disrespect the organization or the players, but I really think that there must be a change in the way things are done here. I’m perhaps the biggest Braves fan in New York, but when I see that Jeff Francoeur and the rest of the players are only doing the minimum, I can’t help but to get upset.

Also, another practice that I find disrupting is the consistent signing of failed Mets players (Gotay, Franco, Yates and Woodward). Our bullpen is also composed of pitchers release by other teams……….No wonder we have a record of 3-6……Luckly, last night’s game was posponed……..we were in for a big time sweep at the heands of the Rox……..

By monty

April 11, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

The Braves by in large are a bunch of free swingers, with the exception of Chipper.They need to learn to work the count in their favor. Chipper Jones does that better than anyone on the Braves. Todd Helton is the same way for the Rockies. Manny Ramirez does it with the Red Sox. THE Braves get themselves out more than the pitchers do. IF you don’t make a pitcher throw strikes he’ll win 9 out of 10 times. THe biggest enemy of any pitcher is a walk. I would like to know how many walks the Braves have taken this year compared to other teams with the same amount of games played.

By Ariel

April 11, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

I would change the entire administration. The Braves have become a team of poor-performing players that only look good playing for our team. As soon as one of our players leaves the Braves for another team, he is sent to the minors. This illustrates the fact that Braves players only perform good in Atlanta because they are sorrounded by equally mediocre players. I do not mean to disrespect the organization or the players, but I really think that there must be a change in the way things are done here. I’m perhaps the biggest Braves fan in New York, but when I see that Jeff Francoeur and the rest of the players are only doing the minimum, I can’t help but to get upset.

Also, another practice that I find disrupting is the consistent signing of failed Mets players (Gotay, Franco, Yates and Woodward). Our bullpen is also composed of pitchers release by other teams……….No wonder we have a record of 3-6……Luckly, last night’s game was posponed……..we were in for a big time sweep at the heands of the Rox……..

By alan from Atlanta GA.

April 11, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this

I realize we are only nine games into the season, but the bullpen is no different than the past 2 yrs. The faces have changed, these dregs come from different teams but who is responsivle for coaching them? McDowell, if he can’t imprive the lot in his 3rd yr. why give him more time to screw up the team this yr. Bobby is too loyal to his coaches and some of his players. If glavine is pitching well, why take him out to put a bunch of losing bullpen pitches in there. I miss the old workhorse, Ray King.

By Bravesfan79

April 11, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this

I would change Bobby Cox to head cheerleader and leave the bullpen moves to someone else! Maybe then a player will be taken out BEFORE they give up a big HR. Im so sick of watching the pitcher being taken out AFTER the fact when the bases are empty and 2 outs.
I mean you might as well let the guy face one more batter if theres already 2 outs. Why burn another arm!?? And if i see Bobby use Moylan or Soriano in another blowout….im gonna flip!

And can anyone tell me the reasoning for having a 3rd catcher on the team thats a “defensive specialist that never plays defense” yet comes up in crucial hitting situations?? Would that roster spot not me much better served with a speedster that can steal a base late in a close game!??

By Jeff321

April 11, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this

My one change would be getting rid of Bobby Cox.

By Bravesfan79

April 11, 2008 5:45 PM | Link to this

By Q DAWG “SPEED + SPEED + SPEED = MORE AFRICAN AMERICANS PLAYERS…”

Were not talking about the white powder stuff u put up your big noses when u run out of crack, Q.

This is baseball were talking about, and just how many American black players do you actually see in MLB today? Not many!

I miss the days of Ron Gant and David Justice myself. Those were tough, strong minded players.

An example of the black players of today is that Milledge guy that the mets delt to the nationals. He somehow thinks hes a rapper and embarrases himself AND his organization with his lame off the wall lyrics.
Im sorry but coming from someone whos delt alot with the housing authorities, once you have enough money for your own chef and limo driver…i think u loose all street cred! Which further shows what a IDIOT Milledge is.

By Bravesfan79

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

Monty: common man you cannot even seriously put Julio Franco and Chris Woodcrap in the same sentence!!!

Ones a former batting champion, the other was a no good hack who had one decent season and fooled the Braves into signing him.

Julio Franco could STILL produce this season, while woodcrap NEVER COULD!!

By FEAR

April 11, 2008 6:24 PM | Link to this

Bill you sir are a complete moron.

By richbrave

April 11, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this

Uh - oh, BILL:

You didn’t take that pill!!

By Cro25

April 11, 2008 6:47 PM | Link to this

Bring back Eddie Miller

By Shamus Thacker

April 11, 2008 7:47 PM | Link to this

If the Braves hired Pete Rose, they’d be throwing the “Class Organization” tag out with the dishwater…

I think Bobby learned a lot from the Ted Williams cryonics fiasco. Bobby’s obviously had his brain frozen in advance.

By Frank

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

If we gonna do something…we need to do it right.

I say bring back Gant, Justice, Otis Nixon or Neon Deion in the outfield AND then….

Either McGriff or “The Big Cat” for 1st, the Lemer for 2nd, Belliard or Blauser to play SS, and since TP is hitting coach, keep Chipper at 3rd.

By Philliesuk

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

I want two wishes: Bring up Josh Anderson to platoon with Diaz. My second wish is for the Braves to learn how to manufacture a run.

By tbo

April 11, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this

Hands down the only thing the Braves need is to fire that old fart Bobby Cox. Good example of his complete mismanagement of the bullpen is tonight when he took Hudson out when he is pitching a 3 hit shutout. FIRE BC.

By mahad

April 11, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this

bring up MORTON

By richbrave

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

Richmond beating the Iron Pigs(Phillies) 6-0 with 2 out in the bottom of the seventh. Single by Anderson leading off the 1st and a double(his sixth) by Jones plates first run ever scored at Iron Pig’s Stadium. Thorman has multi-hit game. Lines tomorrow. Pitching strong.

By richbrave

April 11, 2008 10:52 PM | Link to this

mahad:

Charlie is going to see Atlanta and before September call-ups. That is IF he keeps on this track or improves. The young man needs work and some seasoning and he’ll be Atlanta bound.

By Tom

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

We need to find a way to get a young starting pitcher like Scott Kazmir from the Devil Rays. We need a young nucleus to build around after Smoltz and Glavine call it quits, which could happen at the end of this year for at least one. No later than 2010 will you see either one in a starting role with the Braves. If somebody like Kazmir, Jeff Francis, or Tim Lincecum was acquired for and paired with Jurrjens and Hudson, then that is a dominant top 3 for another 5 or 6 years.

By tj

April 12, 2008 2:27 AM | Link to this

To: tbo

Just to show you Bobby knows what’s going on with his players more than most fans do: Quote from Hudson from the Braves website.

When it came time to decide whether he should bid for his 11th career shutout, Hudson didn’t take long to decided he’d had enough. During his eight-pitch, perfect eighth, he felt like he was on fumes.

“It was all I could muster to get through that eighth inning,” Hudson said. “I felt like I was Houdini there in the eighth inning.”

By tbo

April 12, 2008 7:43 AM | Link to this

TJ, You may be right on this one. I’ll give you that. But you must have seen thousands of other times that BC has made stupid bullpen moves. Everyone else has. Thanks.

By Ramblin Man

April 12, 2008 8:16 AM | Link to this

tj- you would know to if Hudson told you he was tired, He told pitching coach.

Did you notice, Bobby is not as smart since Pat Corrales and Leo have gone. Maybe Bobby was getting the credit for what Pat and Leo was doing! Something to think about.

By richbrave

April 12, 2008 9:06 AM | Link to this

DOWN ON THE FARM

Richmond Braves - game 8

position—-player—-a—r—h—bi—-avg

cf———-ANDERSON—-5—1—1—0—-.353

ss——LILLIBRIDGE—-4—0—0—0—-.108

rf—————JONES—-4—1—2—1—-.323

lf————-TAYLOR—-3—1—1—0—-.400

1b————THORMAN—-4—1—2—1—-.120

-c————SAMMONS—-2—1—1—0—-.429

2b—————-HOLT—-4—1—2—2—-.273

3b————TIMMONS—-3—0—0—0—-.063

ph———CANIZARES—-1—0—0—0—-.385

-p—————-MOSS—-1—0—0—0—-.000

-p——ROUWENHORST—-1—0—0—0—-.000

===========TOTALS==32==6==9==6

E: Jones 1(1), Holt 1(1). DP: 1(9). LOB: 5(54). 2B: Jones 1(6), Holt 1 (1). S: Moss 1. SB: Taylor 1(1), Anderson 2(4).

Josh ANDERSON continues his impressive march through the International League’s pitchers. Taking on all comers and picking no favorites, he continues to bruise the baseball at a blistering clip. In game 8, ANDERSON batting lead-off, got the game started on the right foot by hitting a single and scoring on Brandon JONES double.

JONES is hitting doubles at a prodigious rate having 6 in 8 games. And his average is climbing nicely.

THORMAN has his first multi-hit game of the season, and looks better at the plate since breaking into the hit column.

SAMMONS continues to pound opposing pitchers, hitting over .400(9-21) and has very impressive discipline at the plate so far.

“LIL’BRIDGE continues to struggle for hits, but has scored 8 runs in 8 games. He also leads the team in RBI with 7.

Those of you who follow the Braves will be interested to learn that one Chris WOODWARD is playing for the Iron Pigs hoping for a call-up to the Phillies. The unshaven one went 2-3 last night with no runs scored or rbi’s. He couldn’t happen to a nicer team.

pitching——IP—-h—r-er-bb-so—-era

MOSS———-4.0—-2—0—0—1—2—3.75

ROWENHORST-1.2—-1—0—0—1—1—0.00

BASNER——-2.1—-2—0—0—0—2—7.26

RIDGEWAY—-1.0—-1—0—0—0—1—4.50

WP: Moss (2-1).

Damian MOSS had his first start after three appearances in relief this year and held a solid line through four.

Then the beast in the pen was let loose upon the hapless pigs. J. ROUWENHORST has made four stints in relief in eight games and has a 1-0 record. No earned runs, that’s 0 in 8.2 innings 6 H, 2 BB, 8 SO. Tidy little line so far. With the miseries in the Atlanta bullpen will we see ROUWENHORST up and RESOP out?

BASNER was effective last night improving his year considerably.

And RIDGEWAY continues his steady recent work.

And so the drama that is the 2008 season continues to unfold.

By John

April 12, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this

If a player strikes out or grounds to second with bases loaded imediately bench him. If a pitcher gives up two runs in the first inning, take him out immediately. The Braves simply must stop tolerating poor play.

By bravesfanatic404

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

like i keep saying, i would trade josh anderson (dont see why the braves wanted him in the first place) for a mid-relief pitcher

By richbrave

April 12, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this

DOWN ON THE FARM

The end of Scott Spiezio’s career with the Braves is a fait accompli. At least for the immediate future. Unprepared to play last evening, he’s been dismissed from the team. He was having a great start batting .300+ according to my records, and was a real asset to the R-Braves through their first seven gamers. But it probably was too much to expect that a dramatic behavioral change could be almost instantly wrought in his case. Continuing to be in the environment of professional baseball undoubtedly exascerbated ongoing problems in his rehabilitation effort. Removal from the current environment is undoubtedly necessary at this point. Hopefully, with help, he can recover soon enough to contribute his talent to baseball once again. Good luck, Scott.

By Bo

April 12, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this

Bravesfanatic-Like you keep saying??What do you know? Did you not read **richbraves report? Josh Anderson should be in Atlanta now and will be soon. He’s not only a super good kid , great example, but proved last year hitting over 300 that he belongs. Bobby even said, “Josh could start for most teams “. He has speed, great arm, good defense, and can hit. What else you want? You better quit smoking that @$#&.

By richbrave

April 12, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this

DOWN ON THE FARM

R-Braves win 5-3 and lead International League 7-2. Nunez the win in relief of Bueno. Stockman closes out the pigs with two scoreless and three SO’s for the save. Canizares 2-5 with a walk, single, HR, run scored and RBI. Anderson a single with two RBI. Taylor, single with two RBI. Lines tomorrow.

By richbrave

April 13, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this

CHOP CHICK:

I think I’ve found the answer to your lead question. Play Washington 162!!!

By richbrave

April 13, 2008 9:31 AM | Link to this

Cro25:

The STUPID things we do when we’re young, or middle-aged in this case. My good friend and I were at a Braves game in the 80’s and it was “hot-dog” night. We were enjoying the 2 for 1 and a favorite beverage in the same volume as the dogs when Eddie Miller was announced. Sitting close to home plate along the third base-line, my friend and I had an instant inspiration and simultaneously began chanting “its hot-dog night. It’s Eddie Miller night.” Having reduced hearing due to the circumstance of the evening, we had no idea how loud we were. After a few pitches, Miller stepped out of the box and put his hand to his chest and looked at the two of us. “Yeah, you” came the instant response. He stepped back in and was so upset that he overswung on a fat pitch grooved by the pitcher for his benefit and popped it up. I’m glad he had to go to the first base dugout. Sometimes my friend and I remember “Eddie Miller” night. The crass-ness of youth.

By richbrave

April 13, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this

DOWN ON THE FARM

Richmond Braves-game #9:

position——player—a—r—h—bi—-avg

cf———-ANDERSON—5—0—2—1—-.359

ss——-LILLIBRIDGE—4—0—0—0—-.108

lf—————JONES—4—0—0—0—-.286

ph-lf———-TAYLOR—2—0—1—2—-.417

1b———CANIZARES—4—2—2—1—-.400

rf————BORCHARD—4—1—1—0—-.296

-c————SAMMONS—4—1—1—0—-.400

2b——————HOLT—3—0—1—1—-.280

ph-2b———-ROZMA—1—0—0—0—-.000

2b————-SERRANO—0—0—0—0—-.000

3b————TIMMONS—0—1—0—0—-.063

-p—————-BUENO—1—0—0—0—-.000

-p—————NUNEZ—0—0—0—0—-.000

-p————-DeSALVO—0—0—0—0—-.000

-p———-STOCKMAN—0—0—0—0—-.000

============TOTALS=32==5==8—5

DP: 1 (10). LOB: 10 (64). HR: Canizares 1 (1). S: Holt 1 (1) , Timmons 1 (1) . SB: Borchard 1 (2), Holt 1 (1), Lillibridge 1 (2), Timmons 1 (1), Taylor 1 (2).

R-Braves a league leading 8-2.

Ouch! Ouch! Anderson continues punishing the ball, and opposing pitchers ERA’s. Canizares as well. Sammons continues his fine play and great bat discipline. Taylor hitting great as well. Holt, Jones and Borchard steady with the stick. Lil’Bridge continues to struggle in that department, but shines everywhere else, walks, runs, scores, RBI’s, SB, S, etc.

pitching-IP—h—r—er—bb—so—era

——-BUENO-4.2—4—2—2—-3—6—-4.39

——-NUNEZ-0.1—0—0—0—-1—0—-1.76

—-DeSALVO-2.0—0—1—1—-2—1—-2.90

—STOCKMAN-2.0—1—0—0—-1—3—-3.46

WP: Nunez (1-0) 1 save. S: Stockman 1. WildP: DeSalvo 1 (2). HbyP: DeSalvo 1 (1).

By richbrave

April 14, 2008 9:13 AM | Link to this

DOWN ON THE FARM

Got some good rain to prepare that plowing from last week. Now a short dry spell and we can begin planting.

No dry spell for thr Richmond Braves who won their sixth in a row while leaving the pigs slaughtered in their own pen. 0 wins in 10 games.!! Thank goodness Richmond is an Atlanta affiliate and not Philadelphia’s. An 8-2 record and first in their division and all of the International League.

And this win without JOSH ANDERSON. You may be reading the first story of his return to the majors. To my knowledge he is not injured. Possibly he’s been given a day off for good behavior, but looking at Matt Diaz’s strikeouts yesterday, I’m thinking he’s reporting to Atlanta to begin a BOBBY COX platoon.

Matt’s pressing, and his mental approach to the game just might require that he’s able to relax at the plate only when others play in his stead in disadvantageous situations.

At any rate and for whatever reason the top of the line-up was not manned by Josh Anderson but BRENT LILLIBRIDGE.

O.K.-Lines.

position —player—-a—r—h—bi—-avg

ss——-LILLIBRIDGE—5—0—0—0—-.095

cf—————TAYLOR—3—1—0—0—-.308

1b———-CANIZARES—5—1—2—3—-.400

rf————BORCHARD—5—1—1—0—-.281

lf————-THORMAN—4—1—1—0—-.138

-c————-SAMMONS—2—0—2—0—-.444

2b——————HOLT—2—0—0—0—-.250

2b—————ROZEMA—0—0—0—0—-.000

3b————-TIMMONS—4—1—2—1—-.158

ph—————-JONES—0—1—0—0—-.286

-p—————-REYES—2—0—0—0—-.000

============TOTALS=36==6==8==5

E; Timmons 1 (3), Canizares 1 (2). LOB: 7 (71). HR: Canizares (2). SacF: Rozema 1 (1). SB: Sammons 1 (1).

CANIZARES and SAMMONS are mashing the ball practically with every at-bat. SAMMONS continues to exhibit great bat discipline at the plate.

Defensively CANIZARES has his moments, scooping out low throws one moment while committing errors the next. SAMMONS in a solid defensive catcher having allowed only one passed ball in 10 games. His throwing stats are not available to me, but he does well in the games I have heard(about half). He calls a good game. Pitchers wiggle out of tight spots with him calling the game, and that says a lot. Of course, the managers have a big say in that mix as well. And I think PENA being out of options is the only thing blocking SAMMONS from going to the A-Braves. He looks great.

pitching——IP—h—r—er—bb—so—era

——-REYES-4.0—1—0—-0—-1—-8-0.00

——-NUNEZ-1.2—1—2—-2—-2—-3-3.88

—RIDGEWAY-1.1—2—0—-0—-1—-0-3.46

-SCHREIBER-2.0—2—0—-0—-0—-1-4.50

WP: Reyes (2-0).

REYES continues to look south for his salvation and with the line he’s produced in two starts that may be at hand. 9 IP, 4 H, 0 R,0 ER, 3 BB, 14 count ‘um 14 SO in 9 innings. Even with one of those starts against the feckless pigs that’s impressive and with Glavine down and Hampton problematic dare we say- REYES TO ATLANTA??

By LEJ

April 21, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this

Keep idiots from the AJC from the Dugout!