Chop Chick

By richbrave

May 2, 2008 9:13 AM | Link to this

CHOP CHICK:

Jurrgens, Hudson, Glavine, rain, day-off, Jurrgens etc.

By richbrave

May 2, 2008 9:19 AM | Link to this

CC:

Just playin’ girl.

I pick your rotation because yours is great. Oh, BTW you didn’t mention HAMPTON. Any reason why?!! Never mind. Just kiddin’ again.

By Curt in Atlanta

May 2, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this

Hello, C.C.

Basically, I like your rotation picks, with one exception. I’m not a fan of Reyes, based on his performance last year. He may be better this time around, but I’m not convinced. I’d probably go with James. However, I really hope Wren can pull something out of his hat and grab us a decent starter. Have a great weekend!

By The GM

May 2, 2008 9:56 AM | Link to this

No to James, until he gets better command of his pitches including a 3rd pitch and no to Carlyle. At this point they are both mediocre to avergage pitchers.

Give Reyes his 2nd shot and use Bennett as the 4th and 5th starters. If neither works then call up Charlie Morton. If nothing else works then get Tommy Hanson to the majors. He is suppose to be lights out plus by this time any chance for a division title will have evaoprated and it will be time to rebuild the starting rotation with young arms. Also if Tex has not resigned, he will be great trade bait to acquire several good young players.

By Jack G

May 2, 2008 9:57 AM | Link to this

Brave needs: Pitching coach Batting coach Trainer NEW MANAGER and not necessarily in that order.

By eware

May 2, 2008 10:00 AM | Link to this

I like your rotation CC, but I’d have to include Chuck in it instead of Bennett. Chuck has won 11 games each of the past 2 years - that’s something. He obviously knows how to pitch. The negative with him is his depth into the game. If he does not go 6 or 7 innings, then I fully support Bennett. Bennett is great in his role right now.

By Elmer

May 2, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this

Even Hudson is a worry after his recent starts.

By Ryan T

May 2, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this

The GM has it right. No Chuck James. The guy throws in the 80’s and has no command. He gives up HRs like they are going out of style. Bennett has definitely earned a spot at this point. He might not be able to go real deep into games yet, but at least we are ahead when he leaves. And the endurance will continue to get better thoughout the season. I would go with Reyes for the other spot, just because he already has the major league experience. The organization has been real high on him and he has pitched well at times. If a trade isn’t made, then give Reyes a few starts to see what he can do with another shot.

By bravesfan

May 2, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this

trade Tex? are you crazy? the penny pinching Braves execs need to open up that bank book and spend some money to sign that man. nevermind his slow start, he almost always starts slow. the man averages .300/25-30/100+ a year. how in the world can you beat that? and add in the fact that he is a switch hitter and Gold Glove caliber 1B. if the Braves lose Tex, they have lost their minds. with that said, there has to be a decent starting pitcher that might be available or become available in the next few weeks that the Braves can go out and get? i really dont know who that might be, but there has to be someone? i dont know that relying on any combination of James/Reyes/Bennett is the answer.

also, is it just me or is Bobby really starting to lose his mind? i mean I have been a long-time supporter of BC, but the managerial decisions he made during Wednesdays game were questionable, at best. Acosta batting for himself in the 12th with the potential to push across 2 more runs and him having to and pitch his 3rd inning? thats ridiculous. i love BC to death, but this def. needs to be his last year. i wouldnt mind seeing TP take over.

By chase

May 2, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

You are going to see the BRAVES/wren make a trade here for a #2-3 type starter (no matter what it takes) BEFORE Smoltz comes off the DL…

Mark it down…and I think there is a good chance that you’ll see James or Reyes be a part of the deal with some other minor league names you’ve heard and Pena as well

By MT Braves Fan

May 2, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this

Hudson, Glavine, Jurrjens, Blanton/Millwood (please Frank!?), Bennett. James doesn’t have bad stuff, because he doesn’t have ANY stuff whatsoever. JoJo is clearly not ready mentally, and Charlie Morton hasn’t ever pitched at this level, not a great move if we are really going to contend at some point. We need to go out and get somebody, otherwise we’re basically right where we were last year with this rotation.

By bobby's lost it

May 2, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

how bout bobby’s decision to pinch run prado at second for the gold gloved texeira but then simply bunting him over. Texeira is not that slow, he could score from third.

Then after batting a relief pitcher that had thrown 30+ pitches and has a tendancy to walk batters, Prado dropped an easy lined drive because guess what? HES NOT A FIRST BASEMAN.

Im tired of Bobby.

By poorbrave

May 2, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

Agree CC on rotation. Mr CC (Handle with care) is right on.

Questin- Who is Wren talking to about trade? For some reason I believe it will be another used up (hurt) pitcher or one over 40. I have no confidence anymore in managements judgement, I hope they prove me wrong.

richbrave- How is Josh Anderson doing ?

By LivininAL

May 2, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this

Well Smoltz said it in Spring Training, we need 6 starters. I like your picks. After the last few episodes, I think closer is a crock. Let the reliver that is effective pitch. If one pitcher can get us through 6-7, why does it take 5-6 pitchers to get a few more outs? Don’t think Chucky has it from the neck up to be a new Glavine.

By AdirondackDave

May 2, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this

Honestly, beyond Jair, Hudson, and MAYBE Glavine, does it really matter who gets the other slots from the current array of possibilities? I doubt it.

Time to look ahead, this team is seriously calcified, no matter how few games they are behind. To compete for the division title rather than Washington for last place FW needs to aggressively go for a couple more Jairs, wherever they are. If it costs us anything but Hansen, Rohrbacher, and Heyward so be it. I would include any of our current class of 4-5 suspects as well as Tex in a deal if he can’t be signed in the next 30-60 days which isn’t at all likely.

By 18 Wheels of Love

May 2, 2008 10:54 AM | Link to this

Can Jenny Finch throw a baseball underhanded?

By law1143

May 2, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this

as much as I hate to say it, a Matt Diaz trade for a solid 4th starter would make alot of sense right now.

They certainly arent going to deal Blanco, and hes close to ready for daily duties.

and maybe move a catcher, we seem to have more of those than we have need for now.

By The Crab

May 2, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this

is it just me or is Bobby really starting to lose his mind?

He started losing it last year and it has gotten even worse this season. Don’t think he will retire next season and the Braves sure won’t fired him. Only owners like Mark Cuban or Jerry Jones would have the gonads to do something like that.

By don

May 2, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this

The main concern should be that Wren will empty what little quality talent remains in the farm system to rent a pitcher or two to fill in in what will be another season of failure.

The Braves don’t need another Teixeira deal. Contrary to the moronic rants on in this blog, that trade didn’t produce squat. However, it sure cleaned out the farm system.

There’s not much left. Leave it alone. Injuries happen to everyone and, after all, they give management and fans an excuse for poor performance.

I wish AdirondackDave hadn’t mentioned Tommy Hanson. I would prefer that Wren not think of him because he will likely trade him, gorkys Hernandez, and a couple more of our future for someone like Bronson Arroyo.

On the other hand, dumping Teixeira is a good idea. We’ll never recoup what we sacrificed for him but maybe we can get something.

By tce71

May 2, 2008 11:07 AM | Link to this

It may be tough for FW to find a trading partner right now. A lot of teams are overachieving right now and will not want to give up an established pitcher for some youth. I think we may be stuck with who we have. I like Glavine, but a lot of faith was placed on the health of some mature pitchers.

By don

May 2, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this

We could all retire in comfort if we could buy “Big Tex” for what he is really worth and sell him for what you people seem to think he is worth.

If the Braves give him an outrageous amount of money, they can forget the playoffs. You can’t build a team around a big, slow, non-clutch producing (now, before you go wild, be honest and check out when he usually “produces”)first baseman.

By Jeff321

May 2, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this

JJ Reyes is the key. Yeah, he’s had a few rough outings.. But, how about leaving him in the majors to see what he can do weekly? You can’t bring a guy up and down every other day and expect him to preform, eh. Also, I think JJ is much better than most of the Braves’ relievers on active duty right now. However, I’m unsure how using him as a reliever as opposed to a starter might interfere with his long term outlook.

By SL3

May 2, 2008 11:20 AM | Link to this

A good starter will be hard to trade for. I hope Wren does not give away the other half of the talent in the minors for a 1 year player. We need more young arms. Oakland seems to find good arms. They keep them in their prime and then trade them for new young talent when you have to offer Zito, Hampton and Santana type money to keep them. It will take more than another starter to turn this around. How about a clutch pinch hitter with power. How about more clutch hitters period. We also are overweight with lefty hitters. I know it is early and there is long season to turn it around, but their performance against 2nd tier teams has been terrible capped off with their last loss which was almost comical. If Chipper gets hurt hang it up.

By Jim

May 2, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this

All that I can tell you is that if you think our hitting is bad now, imagine life without Tex. He has been slow but will produce. Chipper would be the only one who can produce runs if this guy left. Pitching looks really grim to me. I am sad to say that Huddy has looked awful. Glavine is not going to get it done. Jurrjens is our best pitcher with Smoltzy out. We are going to need a lot of runs to win the games coming up. It may be time to see if Mike G. could come in as a starter. I doubt it with his arm problems but it beats the hell out of the pitchers named above (James, Bennett, Reyes?)

By BamaBrave

May 2, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this

Yeah…Wren is in a tough spot. When JS came here, he had young versions of Glavine and Smoltz, not to mention Avery, Mercker, etc. to build upon. Oh to have that crop of young arms around now. The problem is…the only young pitcher we have in our system remotely close to that caliber is Jurrjens. After that…nothing. I mean, does Chuckie give anyone the same feeling they had when Avery was on the mound back in the day? Reyes? Please. I fear some lean years are ahead, and the only way out is good young pitching. We knew the day would come…and it’s here.

By don

May 2, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this

Jim,

Somehow your promise that Teixeira “will produce” doesn’t offer much hope. My point, and the facts back me up, is that, as a Brave, he rarely “produces” when the game is on the line. Of course, if the score is 8-2 in the eighth or ninth inning, he may well hit a “big” homerun. Big deal.

By Jim H.

May 2, 2008 11:35 AM | Link to this

They gotta give Reyes a chance to nail down a spot. He’s been dominant in AAA. He just needs to get the mental aspects of being in the major leagues figured out. Most agree that he has the talent to be a top of the rotation major league starter. Give him a chance. Glavine and Smoltz will both more than likely be gone next year….. we gotta have some of the young pitchers step up (like Jurrjens).

For god’s sake I hope they don’t trade any more of the top minor league talent for a mediocre starter.

By TheCutMan

May 2, 2008 11:42 AM | Link to this

The Braves are in a tough fix right now but at least they have one thing going for them: 5 months left in the season.

Perhaps the best plan is to stand pat, wait for the health report to get better and in the meantime, get by any which way they can.

That would be one plan. Another would simply ‘go young’ with the talent in their system, take the lumps that go with pitching youngsters and hope to have it improve as the season wears on.

Either way, there’s lots of ‘hope’ in either scenario and hope is not a viable plan. Going for a quality starter via a trade could get expensive and, probably, again rob the pantry of developing minor league talent.

So, what to do? What to do?

By Kentavo

May 2, 2008 12:19 PM | Link to this

What’s Damian Moss up to down at Richmond?

By Jason

May 2, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this

Hudson, Oswalt, Glavine, Jurrjens and Reyes/Hanson. James is way too inconsistent to be in the top 4. Swing Smoltz to closer until Soriano and Gonzalez returns then look to move him back into the rotation: Hudson, Oswalt, Smoltz, Glavine and Jurrjen. Can’t get anymore solid then that lineup.

By jim

May 2, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this

Someone else is posting under the name of Jim.

I do not agree with the other jim about throwing money at Tex. The core of this team has been together for too long and has had its best days. The “new core” has not shown that they are anything but good complementary players right now. The season is too young for teams to give up and trade a “quality” arm, and we don’t have surplus of talent to acquire one. Hughes seems to be very injury prone, but maybe a deal of Tex to the Yankees for some combination of Hughes, Brackman, Jackson, Tabata should be considered later in the summer. (but then the Yankees can just wait and buy him in the off-season if they don’t think one of the other money teams might do a sign and trade).

Hanson is in high single A. He is NOT an option this year for the rotation. Reyes has been very good in AAA — give him a real chance to see what he can do. As much as this blog hates James, he’s 24-15 in 2 years. How many other 2-year starters have this record, and do you really think we can get someone better for what we have to offer?

Just to compare 2 trades for power hitting first basemen

JS’s best: Melvin Nieves, and 2 other never weres for Fred McGriff —Saved the top 3 prospects (Chipper, Javy, and Klesko)and we had McGriff for 5 of his most productive years.

JS’s other: Salty, Andrus, Feliz, Harrison, and Beau Jones for Tex and Mahay — The first 3 will probably be major league players and all 3 could be solid players to possible stars. Harrison will probably pitch in the majors in some capacity, but will not likely be a big contributor and Jones was a sandwich round pick 3 years earlier (bad draft?)— all for a brief rental.

By YOU MUST BE KIDDING ME

May 2, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this

Chop chick - You are an idiot! You lost me with the blog about Cox needing to go. You, Bookman and Carla Caldwel(after that ignorant opinion piece yesterday on bicycles), should look for different work. The AJC is in bad enough shape, and you guys are not helping. Here is some advice. Do some (any…) research and learn your subject before you start writing about in the cities newspaper

By poorbrave

May 2, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this

Agree Jason but Oswalt is a dream deal. Wren not smart enough to pull it off without giving up the farm.

I love Tex but you and I know the Braves will not resign him due to Mr.Borass, so why not get what you can now. We got blank for A. Jones but the Dodgers really got stuck with 38 million for 150 hitter. Glad he’s gone.* Things will not get better till management gets better.*

Something to think about Lazy team can’t afford a laid-back manager….Time for a change.

By The Crab

May 2, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this

The trouble is with a trade is who at this point of the season is actaully going to trade a # 2 (much less 1) type starter. I would guess no team would. The Braves are going to have to rely on what they have at least until mid-season.

By Thatguy

May 2, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this

what about Campillo. He’s been shutting down opposing batters and he use to start in Mexico…

…I’m just saying.

By TomahawkMatt

May 2, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

For you guys talkin bad about Tex… DON why don’t you try checking some stats before you open your misguided mouth. Last year Tex had 66 hits in 208 AB for a .317 AVG for the Braves. So far this year he’s nearly on the same pace (barely under that I admit) at 30 hits in 110 AB. He has had a low AVG in each April he’s played. Maybe You, Don, will “come around” if you are actually a Braves fan and not a NY Met idiot in disguise. Tex is a player well worth the trade of the minor leaguers we got rid of.

You other folks need to back off of #5. Bobby is the best manager in baseball in what he gets out of his players. Did you ever hear a bad thing from a player about Bobby Cox? NO! Not even Gary Sheffield had a bad thing to say after leaving. Cox is a legendary skipper. It’s not his fault that pitcher’s arms aren’t healed by waving a magic wand or that he’s not Gandolf the Wizard from Lord of the Rings.

I see a trade coming to pick up another starting arm. I have no idea who but it’s in the works. We have a vast farm system to be put to use so Frank make the move.

GO JAIR!!! GO BRAVES!!!

By Willie

May 2, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

You must be kidding me? CC has more smarts in her little finger that you have in you little brain. If you like Cox, great! If you think your smart because of it, you’re stupid. I believe this is America where everyone can decide for themselves. Who are you to judge CC? Get off her. Fire Cox! get on me.

By TomahawkMatt

May 2, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this

Some more AMMO…

Last 11 games… TEX is 17 for 46 - that’s .370 with 10 RBIs. Please do some work homework before you guys open your mouths.

PoorBrave? PoorFool. Go back to Flushing NY.

**ChopChick needs to be chopped if she thinks Bobby is done as a manager. I say time for a new ChopWoman rather than a “Chick” with weak ideas.

By J.D. Phillips

May 2, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this

Cox is a legendary skipper.

TRUE - I am sure a statue of him will be eventually be placed in Turner Field somewhere. However, this is also the reason we are STUCK with him.

Got to go with Willie on this one. He needs to be shown the gate. Maybe it will wake this team up.

By VaBravesfan

May 2, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this

I watched the Hanson kid pitch in Lynchburg, VA Tuesday night. I hope it was a bad night. I don’t know if he is normally wild but he sure was that game. Ball/strike ratio was about 1:1. He walked a few and went to 3 ball counts on several others. Threw 3 wild pitches. He is a great big boy and throws hard. I think he will be a good one when he gets his control. Go Braves.

By heybud

May 2, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

It’s amazing to me how any Atlanta sports blog (regardless of the topic)always includes somebody calling for Bobby Cox’s head.

Now, I’ve fallen for the bait myself.

Now, to the question - the rotation. I think you have hit it on the nose, Chop Chick. You start with Hudson then Glavine because of their experience and to split up the lefthanders in the 2 and 4 slots (Glavine and Reyes/James). I put Jurrjens in the third slot too because of his performance thus far. Give Reyes two starts to see if he can cut the mustard. If he can’t, look to James again. I like Buddy Carlyle, but I like what he has done inm long relief this year and think Bennett is the better alternative to be the fifth starter.

By TomahawkMatt

May 2, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this

I thought Willie B died a few years ago. Apparently he’s alive and reading the Braves Blog. It would take a gorilla to defend an idiot for doubting Bobby Cox’s abilities.

IF YOU DON’T LIKE, RESPECT, OR APPRECIATE WHAT BOBBY COX IS OR DOES YOU DO NOT UNDERSTAND BASEBALL AND YOU ARE NOT A BRAVES FAN. FIND ANOTHER TEAM TO FOLLOW IF YOU DON’T LIKE #5!

#5 FOREVER!!!!!

ALL YOU HATERS CAN GO ROUTE FOR THE RED SOX OR THE YANKEES. YOU KNOW… THE PERFECT TEAMS.

By jim

May 2, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this

We do not have a “vast farm system”. In AAA we have Jo Jo, Chuck, Morton, Anderson, B. Jones, and Lillibridge. Is there any combination of the above that would get you an Oswalt?

In AA with Shafer suspended we have 0 prospects!!!!

In high A we have Hanson, Hernandez (hurt), and possibly some minor prospects like Hicks.

In Low A we have Heyward (UNTOUCHABLE!!!!!), some promising arms, Cody Johnson (a Kingman clone?), and Freeman. In extended spring training we have Teheran, Rohrbaugh, and Gilmore and a lot of other young kids.

All our best talent is in A ball!

We need to build the system, not tear it down on a long-shot chance this year!! We need to see that the core of this team is going to be good enough to compete with 1 or 2 additions before we start trade speculation. So far the rash of injuries, particularly to the bullpen and rotation, do not fully explain the team’s record. There has been a lack of timely hitting from the 7th inning on, an inability to manufacture runs and move runners, and some poor defensive play at critical moments. The starting pitching we have has been good enough to win the majority of the games.

By NCBravesFan

May 2, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

I think Wren should make a deal if he can. Perhaps Pittsburgh would be a good candidate - they are in last place and they have some good arms.

We’re overstocked in the OF and at catcher … and the return of Infante soon means somebody in the infield is going to be expendable.

Unless and until James can show he’s more than a five inning pitcher, he should not be an important part of the Atlanta plan.

By Philliesuk

May 2, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

I agree with others that it’s going to be hard to find anyone willing to trade a #2-3 starter at this point of the season.

That being said, I think we have some players who are expendable. Despite what someone said above, our farm system is not depleted. We are still ranked highly in the BA farm system rankings. Actually, we are overloaded in the outfield (but ironically, not in our major league club).

It will never happen, but I would love to see Millwood back. I know that he isn’t what he was in 1998, but he is a solid starter. Sadly, this trade will never happen.

By KT

May 2, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this

Put a package together and go get Roy Oswald, we need a new #1 or #2 starter for years to come and the money will be there after Hampton’s salary is off the books at the end of the year!!!

By poorbrave

May 2, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this

T-H-Matt I worked for BC and the Braves for many years. Now retired, I know what I’m talking about and I could name names. Never been to Flushing NY but sounds like you have. You don’t like women so you must be _unny? Tex I love,but Braves will not resign. Got to go with Willie and J.D. Phillips on this one. I will not use the word Fool to you as the Bible gives good warning against that. Have a good day and I’ll pray for you.

By BamaBrave

May 2, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this

Amen to that NCBravesFan

I’m tired of starters barely making it to 5 innings. Yet another reason I’d rather see our pitching acquisitions and development skew towards the young arms.

By cj

May 2, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

Made me sick to my stomach watching Cox mismanage the game Wed night. You don’t try the squeeze play when your team isn’t catching any breaks, left Acosta in too long. Whatever rotation we end up with better not include Chuck James, 87 mph fastballs coming in above the belt get crushed, he doesn’t know how to keep the ball down, my god!

By Ed Glennon

May 2, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

It is really funny that a 41 year old man with a sore shoulder is able to pitch more quality innings than James or Jo Jo. Jo Jo has not averaged five innings in Richmond. I bet Bob Feller could go 2 innings at 85. Satchel Page had more quality innings at 65. It is a joke.

By Bravesfan79

May 2, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

Trade Matt Diaz for a #4 starter!??
ARE YOU NUTZ! Our best bat off the bench, or best DH option when we play the AL…trade for a #4 type starter?? Dont we already have enough of those already! James, JoJo, Buddy, Bennett.

We need to be going after Oswalt, or Holliday of the Jays!

By Scott

May 2, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this

Trade Reyes and James to pick up Rich Harden of the Oakland A’s. He’s also prone to injury, but an excellent pitcher when on the mound.

By poorbrave

May 2, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

t-h-matt- “I’ll pray for you, its called Alzheimer’s disease. We’ll all probably get if we live long enough.” KT- I’m with you on trade for Oswalts.

By Scott

May 2, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

Trade Reyes and James to pick up Rich Harden of the Oakland A’s. He’s also prone to injury, but an excellent pitcher when on the mound.

By Scott

May 2, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

Trade Reyes and James to pick up Rich Harden of the Oakland A’s. He’s also prone to injury, but an excellent pitcher when on the mound.

By TomahawkMatt

May 2, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

Well said Jim… .

but we all know there’s a trade coming for a starter. And some farm guys + Bryan Pena and\or Matt Diaz and\or Prado are the likely ones to go for another starting arm. Some one would bite on that. Obviously though, that’s not going to bring Oswald. Maybe there’s another Jair Jurgens out there in the rough somewhere. Hopefully…

Note to self: it’s ROOT not ROUTE.

By Jim

May 2, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

Don,

You are somewhat right with the Tex comment. I do recall him getting a leadoff double the other day in the 11th inning. It was the rest of our team that let us down. If you think that he is the only player not producing with risp the your TV may be broken. For some reason these people think that the Braves are fine right now. We have old hurt pitchers and really no RBI hitting. I think that Tex is one of our better hitters. What would you do, move him from behind Chipper so Chipper doesn’t see good pitching anymore? That has a lot to do with Chipper success. Our team has a lot of talent with nothing to show. I really have no idea what to do with the pitching. I can tell you that one of the only good pitchers we have is going to be on the DL and maybe in the bullpen where he won’t be very effective because the starters will already have us down by so much.

By Jim

May 2, 2008 2:52 PM | Link to this

Other Jim,

If Tex isn’t there then Chipper isn’t seeing good pitches. It is as simple as that and Chip will be the first to tell you. We do need another pitcher but can’t loose Tex if we plan on winning the NL East this year. There is no easy solution here.

TomahawkMatt - you are right! Keep it up!

By RAD

May 2, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this

CC: Last blog it’s Bobby has to go now it’s May and we are 3 games out. You must be young and part of this ADD generation. (Really I think you are just trying to blog shizzit that you know will get arise. Because you can’t be that stooopid. Most of you Brave haters never were around for the bad years. (Imported Yankees or disillusional Georgia Tech Fans) Fulton County Std - I was and I will take the last 16 years and be a believer. At the end of this season we will be in the playoffs and Bobby will be the one to get us there. I do believe that we need Leo back our pitchers have not been have been injury prone ever since he left. But with no financial backing we must play the hand we are dealt.
Peace out and go braves - And chop chick why don’t you tell where your really from? At least we know your old enough to be married. (But in WV that could be 12)

By richbrave

May 2, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this

CC DENIZENS:

Leave CHARLIE MORTON in Richmond for at least a half season more. GUY HANSON is working on him. It takes time. Charlie is not quite there yet. He needs to begin to dominate games, and he doesn’t right now. But the potential’s there, you can see it. One outing he gets SO’s(7 in 6 IP with 0 BB). The next he walks batters(see last outing). A third he gives up some hits, BUT IN NONE IS HE DESTROYED FOR ER’s. And he’s averaging 5+ IP per outing, long for this year’s R-Brave staff.

He’s got “IT” just another three month’s starts and instruction to get “IT” to the forefront of his results. His line last start; 4.2 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 5 BB, 5 SO. Totals through five starts: 26.2 IP, 19 H, 7 R, 7 ER, 11 BB, 23 SO, 2.40 ERA. As you can see the H/IP ratio is good, but not knock-out great. The BB/SO ratio should be at least 3-1 considering the competition in AAA. Plus home night games are a distinct advantage for the pitching staff because of the lighting.

Keep in mind this was the same ratios I had in mind when TOM GLAVINE left in 1987. I said then, the guy’s got no serious game. He’ll be back in AAA in two weeks, and how long is that? 21 years and counting. Shows what I know. If Morton’s as smart as Glavine, and I think he is, he’ll be ready before too long in the season.

Its really more about ‘tude and desire now. I think Charlie is his own worst enemy sometimes, but success couldn’t come to a nicer guy. Ya’ gotta’ believe.

By gb

May 2, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this

eware i hear from inside sources they are looking for a spittoon cleaner and you are the number one candidate

By gb

May 2, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this

i am sorry eware the previous post was for jack g

By John

May 2, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

it blows my mind to hear what you people keep saying!

There arent ANY teams out there looking to trade QUALITY YOUNG arms for a bunch of bench players! All of you saying theres a trade in the works are smoking some GOOD S*&%!! Its WAY to early in the season first off and we ALREADY have TONS OF #4 and 5 guys! James, Bennett and JJ are already solid #4 and 5s. We need to keep BUILDING our young arms and not trading them away. Also, its not that the Braves are playing bad, there just ALL injured!! Once every one is healthy the rotation will be ok but our bullpen will be AMAZING! Just thing of Acost, Gonzo, Soriano and Smoltz in the pen!

Lets just hold our horses for a bit and see how things shake out before we go racing off willy nilly!

By gayle

May 2, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this

Spahn and Sain and Pray for rain. Oops, that was 60 years ago. Today? I would just pray for rain.

By alan from Atlanta GA.

May 2, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this

Reyes, I can’t even think of him at all. James is better than him and that ain’t sayin’ much. Maybe someone stole Hudsons velocity. My G-d this brings back the nightmare of Albie Lopez. Maybe it’s time for a shakeup at the braves coaching level. Get rid of McDowell first. Then see where to go. Letting Manny Acosta hit in the 12th inning with 2 on and 2 out has to be one of the stupidist ideas yet from BC as well as putting Prado in at 1st base. remember the object is to WIN a game, not let your current favorites play.

By KyleH

May 2, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this

The Braves rotation has been a “revolving door” lately but the contributions have been good. The starters have been good lately. I think offense has been our problem. Offense comes and goes and hopefully the braves find it on a more regular basis. I think JJ Reyes deserves his shot. Im not going to condemn him to the minors forever just because he was shaky at 21 years old. Every pitcher starts somewhere and if you guys are as desperate as you seem to find a better starter than give Reyes a shot. Reyes has made some mechanical adjustments and has dominated AAA ever since. I say start Hudson, Glavine, Jurrjens, JJ Reyes, (Campillo/James/ Bennett). I think we should try Campillo. He dosent have a power arm, but his wide array of pitches and good accuracy has led him to some dominant relief efforts. James may only have 2 pitches and may only get 5-6 innings, but what more can u really ask for from a #5 starter. He has won 11 games in his past two seasons so it wasn’t rookie luck. I like Bennett in the bullpen and as a spot starter but if he is best to take over then let him be #5 and move Carlyle to spot starter long reliever. I would love to see smoltz return. He is a hero to all of Atlanta Sports and it is tough to see him in pain like this. Just give Reyes a chance and remember its only april and were only 3 games out.

By don

May 2, 2008 6:09 PM | Link to this

TomahawkMatt,

You better check the statistics. The numbers mean little other than for the back of a baseball card. Just when was “Big Tex” driving in all of these runs? How often did he get the big hit to turn around a game or to win a game? As I said a solo homerun when the score is 8-2 in the eighth inning means nothing.

You talk about his “production” recently. Just how many of those games were wins and, of the wins, in how many did “Big Tex” produce in a crucial situation?

Take off your “Big Tex” bloomers and learn some facts.

By KyleH

May 2, 2008 6:18 PM | Link to this

Don, its hard to say that Teixeira is batting .300 25-30 HR and 100RBIs a year and doesnt win games for the braves. Thats y its a “team”. Teixera is not going to be up with runners on, down by one in the ninth very often. And he did get a lead off double the other night, it was other players on the “team” that did not drive him in.

By Willie

May 2, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this

If the Braves want to sign Tex they need to do it now. The price will only go up,up, up because he will heat up quick. From his GT days he gets hot when the weather gets hot. He does protect Hoss and great to have in clubhouse. I hope they do but don’t believe they will.It don’t take a Gorilla to defend CC, it takes a gentleman. No hard feels Matt.

By Willie

May 2, 2008 6:35 PM | Link to this

feelings=its not hard to be humble. sorry about spelling. good call kyleH

By Blue Water

May 2, 2008 7:30 PM | Link to this

Should have never signed Glavin, find a way to get rid of Hampton. Go with young arms and they don’t pan out release them. Good grief, the idiots keep throwing away money on these old guys.

By Farnsworth Dibblemeyer, Braves Fan

May 2, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this

The Braves are blessed, they have 4 number 4 starters. It’s just that they don’t have a 1, 2, 3 that is the problem. I am a long-time Atlanta Braves fan (Daddy Dibblemeyer was at the first game played in Atlanta) and Mums Dibblemeyer used to do some P.R. work for the organization before she was a Dibblemeyer. So, I have close ties to this team and a sentimental feeling in my heart of hearts for the success of this team. Here’s what I think: Move KJ to first base, play Prado at second. Tex becomes a pitcher. Problem solved.

By richbrave

May 2, 2008 10:04 PM | Link to this

poorboy:

Missed your query this morning, sorry. BA is down considerably. He’s .305(29-92) as of yesterdays game. Only got to listen to one inning tonight and he didn’t bat so I don’t have any line, but everything’s about the same. 9 steals, fielding solid.

By richbrave

May 2, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this

VaBravesFan:

Thanks for the info on Hansen. Pass thast on to DOB folks.

By richbrave

May 2, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this

poorboy:

I KNEW I found a kindred spirit who knows a thing or two about the Braves. Did you get the Tommy Hanson info from VaBraveFan? Check his post of 1:45 p.m. today.

By snowy

May 3, 2008 8:45 AM | Link to this

ok i would do this hudson,galvine,jurrgens,bennett up to aug. then put smoltz back in.serious as for being 5th starter for now jo jo i doubt if he can do it. as for james he never seems get pass 5th. huddy great last night.i believe trade needed but really there is really no dependable starter out there.richmond may have some but starting out new for atl.only a few are able to first season up. sorry but i see us in 3rd again for final season.to trade tex even there is still no worth pitchers anyone be willing to give for him without giving more then just tex. as sign him i do not see it happening unless we had new owners who get over their money pride and no clause pride and change stuff and get with future of baseball

By poorbrave

May 3, 2008 9:00 AM | Link to this

richboy: Thanks for up date. Yes its good to have VaBraveFan news on Hanson. Hope to get more info from both of you. Thanks friend.

By jeff

May 3, 2008 9:13 AM | Link to this

Its Roy Oswalt. not Oswald that it matters. God bless the USA.

By Santa3247

May 3, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this

Hi, I’m Seong-Ho,Yoon living in Sea of Glass south korea.

Look Gregor Blanco’s swing at bat, head-up when he swing. ^^ This is the exact insufficience of basic skill. ^^

Do you think Bobby Cox can’t see this point? ^*^ Mattew Diaz don’t have any defect about head-up at swing.

May the force of Messiah be with you

P.S:

People who using resonance schumann must be sexual slave of Babylon and their friends.

But, now your middle school & highschool are introducing Resonance Schumann to students secretly. ^*^

By richbrave

May 3, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this

poorbrave:

Man, my corotids ARE closing fast!! Sorry for the misnomer. And Anderson went 0-4(29-99).293 after last night. I mis-typed and had him 29-92 instead of 95 ab going into last night. Again sorry. Trying to concentrate on finishing my thesis and am distracted.

By richbrave

May 3, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this

poorbrave:

A quick throw-back to the CHICK’s previous article on BC. I really like the manager here, DAVE BRUNDIGE. He is a no nonsense guy, and I have seen a few since 1966 including BRIAN SNITKER. I feel he’s as good as any manager that’s been through here. And since this is his second year here, I’ve got a good line on his abilities. Also, he’s got an American League background, so he brings something fresh to his club’s management style. With CHRIS CHAMBLISS and GUY HANSON as his two main coaches, these three could move up to Atlanta when Bobby retires and I don’t think Atlanta would miss a beat, management-wise.

BOBBY COX stays however, until Bobby decides to leave. I’m fairly certain that the organization feels he’s earned that right. They may be relieved when he does so, but it’s his call I think?? Since you have a little inside information that I don’t, what say you about the TIMING of COX’S passing??

By tbo

May 3, 2008 6:54 PM | Link to this

I hope that BC retires soon. Otherwise, the Braves will not get back to the top of the division IMHO. Wed. nights game management (?) by BC was pitiful as noted by many on this blog. His management of the bullpen over the last few years has cost us many games. I agree he has the respect of all of his players and he gets the best out of them, but it is time to get someone else.

By richbrave

May 4, 2008 11:01 AM | Link to this

DOWN ON THE FARM

Big article in today’s Richmond paper touting CHARLIE MORTON to Atlanta after the young man put in his best day’s work so far: 7.0 IP, 1 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 2 BB, 3 SO. GUY HANSON, R-Braves pitching coach says “I think he’s major-league ready.”

Well coach, you never want to say anything to the media that would limit or inhibit a young man’s economic opportunities in life.

But I have posted my thoughts on this young man recently and said then “three months here and he’s ready to go.” And the respect I have personally for Atlanta’s organization has grown considerably watching the way management has handled Charlie this year. Slow and easy has been their mantra. Because I believe it fits Morton’s psyche.

When HANSON says he’s ready he’s saying physically he’s ready. Mentally he ready. But emotionally he’s not.

NOW FOR THE REST OF THE STORY.

Hanson’s quote ends with “BUT I really think he could use another six weeks just to continue to work on his fastball location and get some more CONFIDENCE.” An added quote from DAVE BRUNDIGE, Charlie’s manager, “I didn’t think he was sharp until the last couple of innings.”…”That’s tough to say after a guy goes seven innings and gives up only one hit”…”I think he’s just scratching the surface of how he’s capable of pitching.” Well there you have it.

I was truely impressed with CM’s demeanor in that one autograph session. I believe the man’s a genuinely good soul, and can’t really grasp how excellent he is now or will become. And maybe I’m all wet. I don’t know the man. All I know is what I see. But I see him growing in his abilities. He’s off that plateau for the first time this year. A great sign.

SO I’M SAYIN” TO ATLANTA FANS - Coming soon to a ML park near you, a diamond-in-the-rough, and a prince of a guy.

By richbrave

May 4, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this

DOWN ON THE FARM:

For you PHIL STOCKMAN fans he picked right up where he left off before being called up. Namely getting SO and no BB. He’s rolling up a very good year in relief so far. First time out since being sent down, 1.2 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 2 SO. I’ll give you a complete rundown for the year tomorrow if I get the chance. JOSH ANDERSON at .293 (29-99). His average really nose-diving. I think the book is out on the young man. Time for him to huddle with Chris Chambliss and adapt.

By richbrave

May 4, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this

DOWN ON THE FARM:

Season’s line on PHIL STOCKMAN: 15.1 IP, 5 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 5 BB, 14 SO, 1.19 ERA. His record 1-0, with 1 save. His IP/H ratio is slightly better that 3/1. His SO/BB ratio is slightly less. These ratios are roughly 3/1 and represent the type of domination of International League hitters I have posted of before. STOCKMAN has been to the post eight times this year, all in relief. Throw out his second stint and his other seven appearances are eye-popping: 14.0 IP, 4 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 3 BB, 11 SO, 0.00 ERA. And the best part has been his demeanor. Rock steady. No moping, no BS. Let’s go. This young man obviously has more work here or Braves management would have kept him in Atlanta. At this point, I’m not sure what that is.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008))

May 4, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this

Hudson, Glavine, Jurrjens, Reyes and Bennett.

The Braves play the Reds today(Sunday) and Monday is an off day.

Then the grind from hell starts, the Braves play thirty-six games in thirty-six days.

Cox better get his rotation locked in.

By Santa3247

May 4, 2008 10:45 PM | Link to this

Hi, I’m Seong-Ho,Yoon living in Sea of Glass southkorea.

Hey!! Mattew Diaz’s .AVG for two years are exactly same as Derek Jeter. You got it?

How head-up man Glegor Blanco could do competition with Mattew Diaz?

M.Diaz is 28years old and Mark Kotsay is 34years old. Mark Kotsay and Jeff Francoeur needs rest. Specially J.Francoeur’s consecutive starting member makes his record low and concentration power weak.

And send third catcher to AAA and call back Brandon Jones.

Look!! Catcher is very hard position and specially daygame just after nightgame, catcher’s hardness exploded. You got it? Are you waiting for the injury of B.MaCann? for Joseph Salmon?

May the force of Messiah be with you

By Santa3247

May 4, 2008 11:02 PM | Link to this

Look!!! Today’s game bottom of 2th

B.Aroyo threw pastball to center of homeplate when Gregor Blanco swing, and cener fielder Ryan Freel didn’t catch the plyball why? Jesuit Korea orderred to him “Don’t catch or you will die” You got it? Why? fraud play could be failed for good defense and Jesuit Korea lost temper temporarily. You got it?

May the force of Messiah be with you

By Santa3247

May 4, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this

Look Bronson Arroyo pitchig in front of Chipper Jones, his control of pitched bal were perfect.

But, do you think B.Arroyo fear G.Blanco more than Chipper the great? and pitched fastball to the perpect center of strikezone? ^*^

May the force of Messiah be with you

By Santa3247

May 4, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this

Ryan Freel? He did request to Babylon for expeling of super centerfielder Josh Hamilton to Texas. ^*^

By Santa3247

May 5, 2008 12:23 AM | Link to this

You have to check the table of roommates at away game, strangely awaygame’s record is bad.

One player have to use one room. This is style of anti-babylon. Unimplanted player would like to use low priced one room more than twin room of luxury. I think.

Without deep sleep, without vest condition of body.

By Santa3247

May 5, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this

Dont’ believe IP trace. Jesuit Korea can control freely

P.S: Now my HDD is 18GB, but after installing windowsXP,10GB was seated by WindowXP. ^*^