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Friday, April 25, 2008
Braves’ bats have to carry this team
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Last night’s 7-4 win over the Marlins is proof that when the Braves’ lineup hits as it’s supposed to, it can make up for some shaky pitching. And with as many injuries as this team has suffered — and the number of older arms on the staff — the offense needs to continue to step up and carry the weight of the team.
Instead of stranding 13 runners, as they did in Wednesday night’s ugly loss, the guys came up with some clutch hits and produced enough to overcome a four-run, five-walk performance from Chuck James, who seemed to lose the strike zone after he was handed a big lead.
Jeff Francoeur drove in three runs with some timely hitting, Matt Diaz came through with a two-run single, Mark Teixeira notched another RBI, boosting his average to .244, and Chipper celebrated his 36th birthday by going 3-for-3 with a homer and two runs scored. That makes him .500 (18-for-36) with four homers and eight RBIs during his career on April 24. And now he gets to go to his favorite stadium in the league — Shea.
Speaking of which, Bobby Cox used Manny Acosta for two innings, which means he shouldn’t be available for tonight’s game. Not sure I like how that might play out. Here’s hoping Jair Jurrjens and the bats won’t make his absence a problem.
So do you agree that it’s on this lineup to carry the pitching, or do you think the spot-starters and the bullpen should be on the hook for holding up their end?
By the way, check out this Sports Illustrated article on Yunel Escobar and Brayan Pena. It’s a great read.
Upcoming TV schedule:
Tonight: at Mets, 7:10, Peachtree TV
Saturday: at Mets, 1:10, SportSouth
Sunday: at Mets, 1:10, SportSouth
Monday: off
Tuesday: at Nats, 7:10, SportSouth
Wednesday: at Nats, 4:35, SportSouth
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