Chop Chick

By jacket in sc

May 16, 2008 9:08 AM | Link to this

Jeff Bennett

By geekboy

May 16, 2008 9:09 AM | Link to this

The reason the Braves lost last night is Cole Hamels, not Chuck James. The Braves are pretty weak from the right side of the plate, so any decent lefty is going to cause them great pain. Hamels is better than decent.

James is worse than decent. He only has two pitches … and once the league figured that out he was toast. Batters just sit on the changeup and swing for the fences. He needs to rethink his entire pitching strategy, maybe learn a cutter or a slider.

The Braves are batting .250 on the road … that is not going to get it done. If Smoltz is going to be the closer, I predict a trade of one of the Braves’ “closer worthy” relievers (we have 5!). This team is in sore need of a right-handed thumper. Frenchie is not the answer. And neither is Diaz, apparently. I think a Boyer/Bennett/Diaz package would appeal to a club looking for a closer … maybe Xavier Nady from the Pirates, they have a surplus of outfielders and need pitching.

For the short term, I would go with Carlyle as the 5th starter. He earned a chance last year.

By some guy

May 16, 2008 9:19 AM | Link to this

How about a batting practice speed pitching machine.

By ChampDawg

May 16, 2008 9:21 AM | Link to this

As usual, Booby Cox and the Braves brass will sit on their collective @$$ and do nothing or wait another 2 weeks a do something most of us plain ol’ dumb fans saw should have been done along time ago… case in point, FINALLY getting KJ out of the leadoff spot.

Next, how long are we going to contuinue to struggle with Tex in the cleanup spot…. same ol’ crap last year as with Andruw. Move the guy down or better, give him a few days on the bench.

Until the end of the rotation improves and Tex and Frenchy start producing, this team is exactly what you’re seeing… a .500 ball club.

By TN Jeff

May 16, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this

Players keep talking about turning int around on the road - my concern is that they may just turn it around at home and the little league team that’s been showing up on the road is gonna be what we see at home. Afraid best we can hope for is 500 baseball & 3rd or 4th place.

Feast or famine is because when the pressure is OFF they feast but when the score is close they famine. Team of Chokers.

By falcfan

May 16, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this

Give Morton a chance… and don’t give James another chance. In my opinion his chances have run out. I like Bennett, but he’s better in a long-relief role.

By Gary

May 16, 2008 9:51 AM | Link to this

There is a desperate need for some right hand hitting…..any lefthand pitcher is deep trouble for the Braves!!!!!!!!!!

By Gary

May 16, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this

There is a desperate need for some right hand hitting…..any lefthand pitcher is deep trouble for the Braves!!!!!!!!!!

By Johnny G

May 16, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this

Hanson, Tommy Hanson!!!

By RichmondBrave

May 16, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this

Morton. From what I have seen here in Richmond, he is raedy now, and Atl needs him. BUT unless we learn to be somewhat consistent on offence we will continue to lose close games. There is not a clutch hitter on this team right now except CJ, and even he is not clutch in late innings.

By Eli

May 16, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this

How about Jorge Campillo? He wants to start and based on his performance as a very long reliever so far, I’d say give him a shot a rotation spot.

By Mike

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

Chuck is terrible….he can’t keep the ball down, therefore he can’t keep the ball in the park. I don’t know how many games we have to lose before someone realizes that he just doesn’t have it.

By richbrave

May 16, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

Well my 3-4 road prediction came up one short.

By Jim H.

May 16, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

Well, ideally Hampton would be the one you would want in the rotation eventually. OK, OK, start calling me names and an eternal optimist…..I’m ready for it. But I still think he’s going to help us this year. His main injury (his elbow)is fine and the strains/pulls have to end sometime (hell, he’s done pulled everything there is to pull). It’s not like he’s a fat out of shape slob….in fact he has always been known for his peak physical conditioning. It’s just been rotten luck.

But anyway, short term I would say Jeff Bennett or Buddy Carlyle. I would lean towards Carlyle because Bennett is so versatile and valuable in other roles.

But like others have mentioned, if we don’t start getting more consistent hitting, especially against lefties, it ain’t gonna matter anyway.

By randy

May 16, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this

I agree with you geekboy…a trade is looming. i predict that any trade package would fetch not a right handed bat but a starting pitcher. And since all teams need starting pitching, this potential trade could be a disaster! For now, it may be best to move Jeff Bennett in the 5th spot to save a spot for Soriano/Gonzo.

By Jim

May 16, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this

If nothing else, I believe that Chuck James has earned a starting role as a pitcher in the Home Run Derby contest.

By fieldofdreams

May 16, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this

Not familiar with the pitching that’s out there, but I appreciate the fact that Chop Chick - once again - is ahead of the baseball curve in making the suggestion. Personally I’m still bothered by Tom Glavine and his eight million dollar windfall, drawn at the expense of loyal Braves fans. At this rate Glavine might win 8 games all year, at a million dollars a win. Quite a bargain, Frank Wren.

By justin

May 16, 2008 10:19 AM | Link to this

who else do we have that so much better of an option than James? Carlyle hasn’t shown it he got hit hard at the end of last season and has been tagged in the pen some, and Bennett so far has proven he’s a decent long reliever at best. The best option is either bring Campillo out of the pen and let him start for a couple of months till the league figures him out better, or just ride it out with Chuck. Morton isn’t ready yet.

By Kevin C

May 16, 2008 10:19 AM | Link to this

Call the Rockies and see if they are serious about moving Holiday, he will be like Tex, ours for a year and a half. Before people start screaming, offer arbitration to both Tex and Holiday for picks and by that time, Jones and possibly Heyward would be ready.

As for pitching rotation, Chuck right now is a sitautional pitcher at best. Either bring up Morton or as some have suggested, see who is availble on the trade market.

By bravedawg

May 16, 2008 10:23 AM | Link to this

Jeff Bennett or Buddy if he’s healthy right now. The only reason Chuck is pitching in the majors now is due to all the injuries. But like someone said earlier, it wasn’t just chuck why we lost last night. Hamels was on fire and we have a tough time hitting quality pitching. Other than CJ who didn’t play, we look lost at the plate sometimes. However, if a few key guys liek Tex and Franceour can find thier rhythm I really feel like this team will take off, but we’ve been saying that all year. The question is when and if they can get it going. Hopefully when they do, it won’t be too late, hopefully the braves will still be in the hunt.

By Drew

May 16, 2008 10:23 AM | Link to this

Call it what you want, but the only way the Braves make the playoffs is if an effective 16 million dollar man replaces someone in the rotation. Hampton and his massively fruitless chunk of the payroll is the reason the Braves don’t make the playoffs for the third year in a row.

By Kev

May 16, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this

Trade James but.Put Bennett in his place. James is still young enough to draw offers from other teams he is a south paw.He had his chance in the ATL. Gives up too many homers.Morton should also get a look the season is still early.I know that some team out their has an old starting vet on thier roster that is not getting much play could do better than James with his two pitch but.Hint Hernandez, K.Wood,Eutis,J.Wright,And that guy name ??? Oh Hampton whats up with him.

By Cooper

May 16, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this

You need a replacement for Chuck and probably on for JOJO. CJ is just not very good and I don’t see him with this team beyond this year - AAA or otherwise.

JOJO has looked better but he is still very young and with up n down offense rookie pitchers will feel too much pressure to be perfect which in turn will ruin them (apart from the abnormally mature JJ)

Wren needs to make some trades versus rush up rookies from the minors or use long men as spot starters.

You use a spot starter when you expect to get a regular back after having a tweak or something minor.

You don’t fill your 4-5 spots with a committee of spot starters - if you intend to make the playoffs.

Also while I have been very impressed with JJ given his age and development he should be a 4 not a 3.

This means that Wren needs to trade for a 3 (harden, bonderman, blanton) and perhaps a veteran 5 (Garcia) to build a rotation that can deal with the bipolar offense we are likely to see all year.

If you go the other way and call up rookies for the rotation then you need to address the situation with the offense which looks to be more challenging (to fix) than finding pitching.

By Jim H.

May 16, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

fieldofdreams….you gotta be kidding. Glavine has pitched fine. We would be way worse off without him. The reason he has only one win is LACK OF RUN SUPPORT! He has eaten innings and put up a decent ERA, just like he was expected to do. Jeeez!

By Lacing them up

May 16, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this

So much for Tommy Glavine trying to help Chuck James. I guess you have to help yourself before you can help others, and everytime Tom pitches it looks like he’s thinking about teeing of on #1 at Pebble Beach. Chuck James is a slinger. He has 0 mechanics. I haven’t pitched competitively since last May. I have 4 pitches and can locate. I throw 85. If this continues I’m taking my cleats off the hook and going down to the Ted for a tryout.

I bet I’ll make it

By coleman

May 16, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this

Chuck james is the worst pitcher the braves have had in the last 5 years. Bring up Morton he needs to learn sometime how to pitch in the majors!!!

By K Vad

May 16, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

For the time being Braves can start Buddy Carlyle in place of Chucky James. Buddy proved himself last year. Give him a few run lead and he will give you good 5-6 innings. Our road problems will come to an end once Soriano, Gonzalez and Smoltz come back, it will be a 7 inning game for the opponents. That will boost extra confidence in the Braves hitters to rally in 8th and 9th if needed. Frenchie has 10hits on the recent road trip, McCann is hitting .350+ against lefties, The way cole hamels pitched last night (at one stage he retired 6 batters in 14 pitches) no team could have scored any runs against him. Braves are hitting second best right now in NL so we are good. Come July 1st Braves will be enjoying a good 5 to 6 game lead in the NL East. Go Braves !!!

By ken

May 16, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this

Trade for another starter….possibly a 3rd starter and then move Glavine & Jo Jo down.

Arroyo! Harden! Blanton!

By TN Jeff

May 16, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this

Hey K Vad 10:35 am - Cole Hamels came into the game with an impressive 4-3 record - seems 3 other teams figured out how to beat him.

The key not Cole Hamels but left hand pitching against an anemic right hand hitting line-up. Frenchy seems to be going the way of Andruw - loads of potential unrealized!

By Cracker fan

May 16, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this

Chuck James is simply not a major league pitcher. Triple A is the best he can be. That was apparent last night when the announcers diagrammed and showed what is wrong with his mechanics. A real coach should have spotted it before a fan or tv announcer did. Tex simply ain’t worth the money he’s getting now , and he’ll be expecting more at contract time. He should be unloaded. We all know how much talent he has but his mind is just not on his game. Jones and Kotsay have to have some help on offense, but most of the team seems to have the attitude, “If so and so can’t hit this pitcher, then I know I can’t. Wren and Cox need to kick some a*, or accept a losing season.

By jason

May 16, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this

They should trade Tex and Chipper for some young arms and draft picks. Father time is this clubs worst enemy. Or maybe who ever evaluates pitchers because we have seen some pretty good ones get away and they were deemed not that great. Not to mention the good ones exit after 2-3 yrs.

By ellijaydawg

May 16, 2008 11:12 AM | Link to this

Chuck James is awful! He’s a double A pitcher at best. To stay with the Phillies we need to trade for a starter & maybe a outfielder.

By Alan

May 16, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this

Chuck can’t cut it at ML level. But….looking at yesterday’s line-ups this was a loss whoever pitched because the Phillies had a leftie on the mound. What’s with this team, and just as importantly, the coaches?. A left hander gets up on the hill and the Braves just roll over. The first inning was a prime example.

Escobar leads off and hacks at the first pitch which would have been a ball. I thought it was the lead off man’s job to take some pitches and get on base any way he can.

The lefties in every NL team must be queueing up!.

By Alan

May 16, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this

Chuck can’t cut it at ML level. But….looking at yesterday’s line-ups this was a loss whoever pitched because the Phillies had a leftie on the mound. What’s with this team, and just as importantly, the coaches?. A left hander gets up on the hill and the Braves just roll over. The first inning was a prime example.

Escobar leads off and hacks at the first pitch which would have been a ball. I thought it was the lead off man’s job to take some pitches and get on base any way he can.

The lefties in every NL team must be queueing up!.

By Alan

May 16, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this

Chuck can’t cut it at ML level. But….looking at yesterday’s line-ups this was a loss whoever pitched because the Phillies had a leftie on the mound. What’s with this team, and just as importantly, the coaches?. A left hander gets up on the hill and the Braves just roll over. The first inning was a prime example.

Escobar leads off and hacks at the first pitch which would have been a ball. I thought it was the lead off man’s job to take some pitches and get on base any way he can.

The lefties in every NL team must be queueing up!.

By Paddy McGillicutty

May 16, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this

Jason,

*They should trade Tex and Chipper…” is maybe the dumbest thing I have ever read on any Braves blog…and there’s been some doozies

By Knows what he is talking about

May 16, 2008 11:20 AM | Link to this

TN jeff…win/loss doesnt tell you the whole story case in point Smotlz coulda won 20 games last yr with a lil offense same thing for clemens in houston…Cole hamels era is 2.89 and is whip is 1.04….ask a MAJOR LEAGUE coach and he will tell you “era,WHIP and walk vs strike outs all mean more than win/loss, Im not sure why you people on here think your little league coaching trophies qualify you to bad mouth all these people…Freedom our speech applies even to morons i guess

By knows what he is talking about

May 16, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this

TN jeff…win/loss doesnt tell you the whole story case in point Smotlz coulda won 20 games last yr with a lil offense same thing for clemens in houston…Cole hamels era is 2.89 and is whip is 1.04….ask a MAJOR LEAGUE coach and he will tell you “era,WHIP and walk vs strike outs all mean more than win/loss, Im not sure why you people on here think your little league coaching trophies qualify you to bad mouth all these people…Freedom of speech applies even to morons i guess

By Tomy Fournier

May 16, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this

First…Mr. Cox…later Mr. Glavine Next Mr. Smolt and “LAST” for ever…Mr. Jane…put all in a “PACKAGE” and sended to no-where…but “PLEASE”…NOT MORE AT ATLANTA baseball game.They are destroing US and Atlanta never be a baseball winner….NEEEEEVER!!!!!

By Tomy Fournier

May 16, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this

First…Mr. Cox…later Mr. Glavine Next Mr. Smolt and “LAST” for ever…Mr. Jane…put all in a “PACKAGE” and sended to no-where…but “PLEASE”…NOT MORE AT ATLANTA baseball game.They are destroing US and Atlanta never be a baseball winner….NEEEEEVER!!!!!

By Tomy Fournier

May 16, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this

First…Mr. Cox…later Mr. Glavine Next Mr. Smolt and “LAST” for ever…Mr. Jane…put all in a “PACKAGE” and sended to no-where…but “PLEASE”…NOT MORE AT ATLANTA baseball game.They are destroing US and Atlanta never be a baseball winner….NEEEEEVER!!!!!

By Atlanta N8ive

May 16, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this

jason-you are a dumba$$…trading chipper is the worst idea i have ever read on a blog…you are terrible…more terrible than a Chuck James fastball

By Tomy Fournier

May 16, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this

please take Mr. cox,Mr.Glavine,Mr. Smolt and Mr. James…out of the park….give new BLOOD,NEW ARMS AND NEW EXPECTATIONS….YEAAA…TIME IS OUR ENEMY!!!!

By Tomy Fournier

May 16, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this

please take Mr. cox,Mr.Glavine,Mr. Smolt and Mr. James…out of the park….give new BLOOD,NEW ARMS AND NEW EXPECTATIONS….YEAAA…TIME IS OUR ENEMY!!!!

By KyleH

May 16, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this

i think a trade is possible, but it needs to happen soon and the braves need to think of names that noone else is thinking of right now. right now everyone is thinking arroyo, blanton, harden, etc. what about tim lincecum in SF. San francisco obviously is not a playoff team and may deal him for some young arms… or young anything for that matter seeing as their shortstop is 42 years old. or a near noname aaron laffey in Cleveland. a lefty that induces groundouts. i think this is the best type of pitcher for the bottom of any rotation. a pitcher that gets mainly groundouts. these pitchers have lower pitch counts, frustrate hitters, and as a result of the low pitch count they go deep in ball games. if you still doubt my idea, think about Tim Hudson who is a ground out pitcher. and believe me, we need more tim hudsons. As for chuck james, send him to AAA and let him restructure his mechanics and learn to keep the ball down and pitch for groundouts. morton could also be a temprorary option until a trade is made.

By Diehard fan

May 16, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this

JOHN SMOLTZ…

I’d rather see 5 innings of Smoltz every 5th game than anyone else they could try. Skip his turn when off days allow or use Bennett to spot start for him once in a while to let him rest his arm. With Soriano and Gonzalez back the ‘pen will be fine.

By rmh

May 16, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this

Trade Tex and Chipper is the dumbest thing ever posted on here.

The only thing the Braves need to do is keep playing slightly above 500 ball until everyone gets healthy, then go on a tear. I am happy with the way things are, I am just not enthusiastic about their play.

By Cracker fan

May 16, 2008 11:43 AM | Link to this

TOMY FOURNIER… First thing you need is the ability to think, second is the ability to spell, and third is how to use a computer. Your ignorance is your only strong point. Stay out of public.

By Knows what he is talking about

May 16, 2008 11:47 AM | Link to this

Kyle H…why would San Fran trade lincecum for young arms? He is 23? He is their young arm…only with Matt Cain, young pitching is there strong suit right now….please think before you embarass yourself by typing…this is why I cant read blogs about 5% of people on here have a clue

By Knows what he is talking about

May 16, 2008 11:47 AM | Link to this

Kyle H…why would San Fran trade lincecum for young arms? He is 23? He is their young arm…only with Matt Cain, young pitching is there strong suit right now….please think before you embarass yourself by typing…this is why I cant read blogs about 5% of people on here have a clue

By Jeff321

May 16, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this

Jorge Campillo is the Braves’ best choice. With that said, I haven’t actually seen the minor leaguers referenced by others..

By TheCutMan

May 16, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this

The ones who know, or should know, about the best possible remedies for the team are the players and they’re not talking, at least in public and on the record. I’d love to hear UKnowWho’s take on what could or should be done to get the team turned around on the road or what to do about the other problem areas on the team, wouldn’t you?

Until someone of note weighs in, with credentials, we’re left to speculate and pontificate. While that may prove entertaining in the short term, the larger questions and answers remain unanswered.

By Greg

May 16, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this

I’d certainly be asking what the price is for Greg Maddux or Bartolo Colon.

By AdirondackDave

May 16, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this

Nothing surprising about last night’s game, nothing at all. Before the game started, it occurred to me that the Cox’s best strategy would have been to rest not only Chipper but also Francoeur, McCann, and Escobar and tell Chuckie that he’s going to take one for the team. We’d be better propared for this weekend series if Cox had done it.

By Brian

May 16, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this

I think that the braves should trade for Rich Harden. I know hes had his share of injury problems. but i think he can be a stud, and with smoltz possibly on his way out that would give us another hard throwing power pitcher in the rotation, i believe for many years to come. As far as his injuries i think that would make him more affordable. just wanna see what everybody’s opinion of this is.

By Mike

May 16, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this

Feildofdreams…Why so hard on Tommy. He has done everything we have paid him for. He has been solid in all but, I believe 2, starts. He was even on the DL for the first time in his career. Its been the offense that hasnt given him any support. He should have at least 4 for wins if we spot him some more runs. His ERA is shot b/c of 2 games.

Anyway…Chuck James needs to be sent back to the minors where he needs to be left alone for the rest of the year. He needs to get with the pitching coach down there, go over video of his first year, get his mechanics fixed, get his deceptive delievery back that made him so good 2 years ago, and find another pitch to add in. If we keep bringing him up and sending him down, he’s going to be another lost cause like Kyle Davies.

Frank Wren needs to get another pitcher. In the meantime, use Jorge Campilo or Buddy Carlyle. (sp?)

By Sick of Him

May 16, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this

My nephew is 7. He plays T-ball. He is a better player than this guy. Funny how all these Braves pitchers they DRAFT are on their staff and not doing very well, while those they traded to the A’s and Cardinals and now Cubs, are pitching decently while the ones they kept stink.

By Fastandbulbus

May 16, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this

They way i look at it an trade has to come down soon. Our rotation needs stability. We do have closers that are have value and we would have to give up a prospect for a to be free agent that we can sign (Smoltz,Glavine,hampten are not starters next year here) C.C. Sabathia or Ben Sheets are big two big names that with a big deal we can get. what do you think?

By Paddy McGillicutty

May 16, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this

Lincecum is about as untouchable as untouchable gets. I wouldn’t even trade him for anything on my fantasy baseball team (which he’s helping me lead my league in by the way) for anything much less the actual SF Giants. Maybe you could get Cain, but you’d have to give up Jason Heyward most certainly, and ummm, that ain’t happenin!

That said, I think our best shot is trading for a guy like a Matt Belisle (fmr. Brave), Anthony Reyes, or maybe a Justin Duscherer (sp) that won’t require us to gut our farm system like we had to to get Tex. Perhaps we can enlist the services of JS again to stick it to ol’ Billy Beane one last time.

By Michael

May 16, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this

Chuck James need to be pitching in Richmond or Rome. It is the same problems over and over again. If you throw a pitch belt or letter high they are not going to miss it. Another problem is Roger McDowell. he need to go. I see tat Joey Devine is pitching much better since he got away from McDowell as well as Tyler Yates.

Michael

By Joe

May 16, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this

TRADE FOR GREG MADDUX!!! the padres are out of it already and likely wouldnt demand a ranson for him. uniting the big three would give them the spark needed to get over the hump and then all three can retire in stile together. it is destiny!

By Cooper

May 16, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this

Harden would be a interesting buy low with some risky trade. Problem is he is with A’s which usually means high asking price. The injuries will also give Wren pause.

That said I still would do it given the potential upside and future that Harden could provide the Braves.

He is a 1/1A starter when healthy and if the Braves can get him now before he shows too much of that to the league the asking price may be palatable.

Teams like the Braves cannot afford Santanas’ and rarely can trade for AStar players at the top of their game so a Harden or say a Bonderman would be right up their ally.

By don

May 16, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this

I’d give Wainwright, Marquis, and Belisle a shot at making the rotation. They are, at least, deserving of a try. Oh. Wait a minute. We gave all three of them away and have nothing to show for it.

By KneeJerk

May 16, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this

I guess the AJC has to run a picture and story on Devine for you “experts” to remember him and say we shouldn’t have traded him. That Kotsay guy hasn’t been so bad.

By PB

May 16, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this

My 7-year old son was crying last night watching Chuck pitch…

By TN Jeff

May 16, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this

By Knows what he is talking about 11:20 am

His 2.89 era is after the 9 shutout innings against the Braves (Dropped signficantly from around 3.30 or so -still a good era.

However, here’s what Cole Hamels did prior to playing the Braves and looking like an all-star

Since 4/18/08 - pitched 7 inn & 4 earned runs / pitched 7 inn & 5 earned runs / picted 7.1 inn (got in trouble) & 2 earned runs / pitched 6 inn & 4 earned runs / pitched 7 inn & 4 earned runs (against teams like San Fran no less)

HMMMMMM…. This moron sees 5 games pitched & in 4 of them he gave up 4 plus runs.

give your explanation in simple terms now because you’re dealing with a moron remember

By dawgfacedboy

May 16, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this

Has anyone considered that TP may not be the best answer as the hitting coach? FOr the big club at least? He was no Don Mattingly. There is no reason in the world we should be stranding guys on base and in scoring position the way we are. It’s down right embarassing! ROger Mcdowell would give us a better chance than chuck james!!

By KyleH

May 16, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

To: whoknowswhatheistalkingabout maybe you dont fully understand. I know i didnt discuss details of the trade but a trade for lincecum obviously wouldnt be just one young arm. It would be two or three or more. Obviously the giants arent in a position to win right now so trading is an option. I never said the giants wanted to trade him, I said it might be worth the braves look instead of going after people that everyone wants like blanton, arroyo, or hardin. For a team like the giants who are, again, in no position to win. trading a top line starter for a few top line pitching prospects may be risky but is often worth the risk. so IF they did something like this they would accept that they are a losing team for a few years then have 3 or four top pitching prospects along with matt cain in their rotation. and a few years in the future im sure they would have a younger and better offense. sounds risky but for a team destined to sitting home in october it is very smart. Smart for a team who spent $150 million on barry zito. This is a blog. a place where everyone put out ideas to make the season more interesting. next time you come onto a blog it may not be a good idea to self proclaim yourself the smartest person in it. i guess ur not opposed to my aaron laffey idea as u had nothing to say.

By KyleH

May 16, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this

i know eric bedard was 26 but the orioles didnt seem to have a problem dealing him for prospects to build a younger pitching staff and offense for the future.

By kenlevy_99

May 16, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this

No one should replace Chuck James. He is a great young talent and will be the mainstay of the Braves’ rotation for years. He may be struggling at the momnt due to injury, but over the long haul he has both the stuff and the fortitude to be really special!! Please don’t give up on him. He’s going to be a great one!!

By kenlevy_99

May 16, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this

No one should replace Chuck James. He is a great young talent and will be the mainstay of the Braves’ rotation for years. He may be struggling at the momnt due to injury, but over the long haul he has both the stuff and the fortitude to be really special!! Please don’t give up on him. He’s going to be a great one!!

By richbrave

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

CHOP CHICK:

James does not possess the brightest of minds. Everyone said last year he was lax at his craft and should learn how to pitch. Oh, good we have Glavine. He’ll teach Chuck how to pitch. Evidently not. I would hate to have been a school-teacher of his. DAMM. How thick is this man’s skull?

Hopefully, hard enough to absorb the knocks he’ll take now that it’s obvious he’s not currently capable of pitching in this league. He’s got to go somewhere else. IF he’s lucky he’ll get the chance to pitch in the ML’s again in the future.

By KneeJerk

May 16, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this

KyleH: Again, Lincecum isn’t going anywhere. Lincecum is thought of much more highly than Bedard was at the same age.

By PEPr

May 16, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this

Wiregrass Lady, I certainly feel for Chuck James, but he is not the first pitcher who forgot how to pitch. Mark Wohlers comes to mind. The Braves must send James down somewhere to re-learn the methods that worked. He was great at every level until he tried to pitch with an injured arm. The problems really started at that time. He should now study film from his successful games in the Minors. He should not be thrown to the dogs this young. I think Jeff Bennett should take the starter spot. There are three guys about to come off the DL to fill the pen so some who are there now will be going down as well.

By Vic

May 16, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this

Give Jorge Campillo one chance (just 1)and you’ll see..

By Cracker fan

May 16, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this

kenlevy… There must be two of them because you are certainly not talking about the one on the Braves squad. I would love to see ours live up to your predictions but I have serous doubts.

By Chopper

May 16, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this

Who’s for voting on someone to replace Chop Chick?

By fred

May 16, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this

…how about sending James to SD for Maddux? It turned out well sending Damian Moss to SF for Russ Ortiz.

By joe

May 16, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

i just said that hours ago…we could send them chuck and matt diaz and maddux would be starting for us next week. that way we would have a real innings eater that will give us a chance and give blanco a full time job i mean why does a guy with a 400+ on base percentage starting everyother day

By GT

May 16, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

Is anyone actually surprised by James’ performance this year? Here is a pitcher who has never had good stuff - his first year W-L was good only because the Braves gave him a lot of run support, and the rest of the league hadn’t yet figured out how lame his arm actually is.

Why, oh why, the Braves ever pursued Glavine this offseason instead of a younger arm is almost as puzzling as why they see any potential in Chuck James.

By justin

May 16, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this

Everybody keeps saying get Harden, but last time I checked the A’s were in first. How are you going to get Rich Harden? Chuck James is a number five starter. He only gave up five runs in that little league stadium last night, and if the Braves would have hit it like they have the potential too it wouldn’t have mattered.

Of course thats the problem with this team, potential. Somebody once said all potential can be is a french word for not worth a damn. Chuck kept them in the game for the most part, first pitch swinging took them out of it.

By Lewis

May 16, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this

We have starting pitching its just not named Chuck. Maybe we have another “Jair” down there and don’t know it. Did anybody expect him to pitch like this?

By JC FROM UT

May 16, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this

It’s really too bad Blaine Boyer does not have any options left which would enable us to send him down to get stretched out. I think Blaine would make a #4-5 starter. He throws 3 good pitches which includes a nice 12-6 curve that hasn’t been seen too much in the recent past. If not Boyer I would choose Campillo.

By 3Pitch

May 16, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this

Charlie Morton should be the first choice to replace Chuck James. He is pitching lights out at Richmond, and the Braves rotation badly needs to get younger.

A trade for Maddux would be a step in the wrong direction for now and the future.

By Alan

May 16, 2008 5:26 PM | Link to this

I don’t think that Chuck is ever going to make an ML pitcher until he is able to keep the ball down and his upright delivery won’t allow that. At worst he needs at least two more pitches but even then if he keeps leaving them in the pipe good hitters are going to kill him.

As for Glavine he’s not much more than a five inning man now. Someone said that he had been solid but teams are hitting him now. As the season goes on and he tires he’s going to be cannon fodder. Last season was an example.

Maddux is not the long term answer. He might bring a bit of stability this season but the hitting won’t sustain a post-season run, at least not until the coaches and Cox start preaching patience. AL slugging and NL percentage ball do not often go together.

Oh, and Francouer has to be rested.

By beki

May 16, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this

Was it just me who noticed that CJ ( the pitcher ) looked not just lost but also as if he’d was about to cry? I felt sorry for him but as Joe Simpson said, and diagramed,CJ’s mechanics is why his pitches stay up and gets hammered. Going back to Richmond might help but it’s up to him to change his delivery and add a pitch. He’s got to be “hungry” to be here and to stay in the majors.

By Apostle Paul

May 16, 2008 6:03 PM | Link to this

Imagine if we had a former Ace on the DL who could fill a gap on the staff and could be ready “any day now.” Say, a lefty. You know, the kind of guy who would be paid $15 million a year.

Now, that would be sweet!

By Tomas

May 16, 2008 6:57 PM | Link to this

My 2 options would be Jorge Campillo, or Jeff Bennet. Campillo has been so good off the bulpen that it would be a hard punch to the bulpen if he goes to the starting rotation, and he doesn’t have the arm strength right now, he would have to go to the minors to get the arm strength back. So Bennet is probably the best option.

By Knocka2008

May 16, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this

Trying to watch the game tonight and can’t because Im so sick of Bobby Cox. Can all the rednecks and good ol boys in Atlanta forget about 1995 (that was a long time ago) and admit its time for him to walk away. He just sits on the bench and complains like an old grumpy grandpa. Why do you think Braves pitchers do not get the call they used to? Because the umps are sick of Cox’s WWF bit and getting thrown out of games like I am also. Its a joke. He only does that crap so the Braves fans will stay on his side. He cant win with what he has like the Marlins manager seems to be able to do. Stop with the our players are hurt excuses and WIN SOME FLIPPIN GAMES!!! The fans dont come to Turner like they used to because there is no fire with this team and honestly the games are BORING. I even find myself fighting to pay attention when I go. Bobby ball is over!! Get over Braves “fans” and lets hope he does one last good thing for this team and retires after the 2008 season.

By Greg

May 16, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this

Campillo has showed that he is capable of going multiple innings and get hitters out. Can’t be worse than SuckJames!

By Greg

May 16, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this

Campillo has showed that he is capable of going multiple innings and get hitters out. Can’t be worse than SuckJames!

By Santa3247

May 16, 2008 10:42 PM | Link to this

Hi, I’m Seong-Ho,Yoon living in Jinhae(Chinhae)City southkorea.

You have to open AA,A game too I think. Just one or two camera only sufficient I think.

About batter

In AAA,Rafael Canizarez(1B.28.Right handed) is best and Brandon Jones is resullecting. In AA, Jason Perry(OF.27.L-hitting/R-throwing) hitting over OPS 1,100, in A, Brandon Hicks(SS.22.) hitting well.

About pitcher

In AAA, Phillip Stockman(Closer,Reliever) and Carlie Morton(Starter) is best. In AA, Redmond is good.

And Look Daniel Smith

2007(AA). 9start 4W-2L ERA 1.90 2008(AA). 9start 0W-3L ERA 5.30

in latest game, reliever Jung(korean) blew off Smith’s win again.

I beg Philip Wellman losing to sound.

May the force of Messiah be with you

By richbrave

May 17, 2008 12:46 AM | Link to this

GT:

The answer to your lament is - MONY, MONY, MONY, Mo-o-o-ny-y - M-O-O-O-N-N-N-Y-Y-Y!!! Du-dup, Du-u-dup, Dup, Dup - Dup, Dup, D-u-u-udle, Du-u-udle, Du-dup!!!

By Bowie

May 17, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this

richbrave: First time I ever heard you go off on someone.Man, you really don’t like Chuck? Whats your answer to Braves problem?

Knooka2008: Agree Time for Bobby to head on up to Lake Lanier and do some fishing with G-kids for rest of his days. Thanks for what you did but time to go!

James will go to another team and be a star…because braves pitching coach and Cox don’t get it..ask Devine and others to leave.

Keep up the news richbrave.

Good job Chop Chick!

Go Big Brown!

Peachtree TV ??????

By richbrave

May 17, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this

Bowie:

I don’t trust the dude to tell the whole truth to the organization about where he is ph

By richbrave

May 17, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this

BOWIE:

My bad. I meant to erase that response and sent it instead. Forget it.

The only pitcher here who’s anywhere near ready is CHARLIE MORTON, and I believe the Braves think he can be special. The way he perceives his progress is the key. I don’t know the man other than a few spoken words between us at an autograph session on April 25. But his demeanor appears to be calm, and steady. He certainly was accomodating signing anything and everything WITHOUT any outward display of impatience, and with little banter between he and the autograph hounds. And it didn’t make any difference how ridiculous and unseemly the requests were. Some asked for three and four different signatures, even on the backs of hands. He was unflappable through it all. His “no problem” response to my thanks for going the extra mile was matter-of-fact. This leads me to feel that’s his approach to baseball and to life. So if the Braves have a time-line for him, so be it. Whatever it takes. I think when he finally arrives, and overcomes getting battered about a bit, he’ll become an assassin(same as Gilbert Arenas avers but without the hyperbole)..and I for one will root for his success. So the long of is CHARLIE MORTON and whenever the Braves think he’s ready.

By Santa3247

May 17, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this

Hi, I’m Seong-Ho,Yoon living in Sea of Glass(Jinhae) southkorea

Today I want to talk about Crazy Bobby Cox.

Now he is giving 70% chance of starting playing LF to head-up man Gregor Blanco, and giving 30% chance of starting playing LF to consecutive years .AVG over .330 and tied with Derek Jeter only.

Today If he would change Gregor Blanco to Matt Diaz Braves could win.

He is insane. Coward for old age. Do you want to live to over 100years old? Always Red-dragon Babylonian bully coward pleasantly.

“Baseball need 9players and one spy can fail game” but, now Bobby Cox making Braves devastated. Fire him!!!

May the force of Messiah be with you

By Big Dawg

May 18, 2008 1:19 AM | Link to this

Santa3247, Yoon you are right about Crazy Bobby Cox. Black Dragon of lake lanier see bobby face in black cold water looks like 110 years thinks like 200 old coward. Babylonian very anger~4~spy. Must be fired!!! May force of Messiah be with you.

By pat

May 19, 2008 8:16 AM | Link to this

Why the secrecy? from your picture you are obviously very pretty so why can’t we see the rest of you?