Chop Chick

By will

June 13, 2008 11:01 AM | Link to this

This is our season in a nutshell: A good manager will set his players up to succeed. A poor manager will set his players up to fail. There’s one of each in the Braves-Cubs series…

By TheCutMan

June 13, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this

“This team needs something to shake it up … a table-flipping/chair-throwing tantrum, a firing, a house-cleaning trade.”

Couldn’t have said it better and I completely agree except for one not-so-small point: Instead of “a firing”, amend that to read MULTIPLE FIRINGS.

By Tomahawk Matt

June 13, 2008 11:14 AM | Link to this

Is it the manager’s fault that the entire core of our pitchers have been injured? Is it the manager’s fault that guys are taking good pitches and swinging at bad ones? It’s true you can’t fire the whole team but it’s not time to make Bobby Cox pay for his players’ poor decisions and inability to get it done.

The facts are that this team has a weak, depleted and injured pitching staff and 6 out of 9 guys in the lineup every night ARE NOT HITTING the ball anywhere.

The only dependable offense has come from Chipper, McCann, & Escobar. All the others look like they’re lost at the plate. Whatever happened to choking up on the bat and just trying to make contact. Good things happen when you put the ball in play. Balls will find holes.

Baseball is my life but at this point, I’m ready for football season to start.

By TheCutMan

June 13, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this

This is for T-Matt:

It IS the manager’s fault when a player fails to hustle and not get in his face. (Yesterday, Blanco hit a long drive to RF and stood watching, waiting for it to go foul, before waking up when the ball was caught on the line.)

It IS the manager’s fault for not disciplining a guy like Francoeur for taking the easy way out. (Yesterday, late in the game, long fly ball to right, Cubs’ runner tags and plates a run. Francouer is not catching it with his momentum moving forward, nor does he fire the ball back for the cutoff man to decide. Instead, he concedes the run.)

Meantime, #6 sits impassively in the dugout with his arms folded across his chest.

By Tomahawk Matt

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

Just to throw this out for comparison… Firing Bobby Cox right now would be a MILLION times worse than when the Falcons fired Dan Reeves after Vick tore his ACL.

The overwhelming problems are lack of talent and an OLD pitching staff. There are two guys mainly responsible for that. John Schuerholtz and Fran Wren.

Here’s to the future…

By bulldogbubba

June 13, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this

Do we have enough “baby braves” that are hungry to play? is it time to bring them up and get rid of the bench riders.we need a spark on this team now!!! not in september when it’s too late

By John

June 13, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this

I know the Braves have not been hitting, but I think the problem is that there is not one relief pitcher that is dominant in what they do. Soriano is close but he is hurt. None of the other guys are reliable at all, and I never trust any of them when they are in the game. The hitting will pick up, but I don’t know about the bullpen. I told a friend yesterday in the seventh inning that they better leave Hudson in for the whole game. He was taken out and what happened? Of course, we blew the game. I am not bashing Bobby. YOu have to use the bullpen, but not when your best pitcher is on and the bullpen has been struggling. I shudder anytime Boyer comes in.

By Tomahawk Matt

June 13, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this

Cutman you’re going to have to do better with those arguments:

Bobby Cox handles his business with his players IN HIS OFFICE just like any respectible boss should do. ONE ON ONE and not in front of your peers.

You’ve never seen Bobby go after a player in the dugout BUT YOU WILL SEE other players or the bench coaches go correct a player that has made an obvious mistake. However, I do remember Bobby going out to the outfield and yanking a young Andruw Jones off the field for letting a ball drop in front of him. You don’t know what goes on behind closed doors or in the locker room.

In addition, perspective is everything. Maybe you play ball and maybe you don’t. Television coverage is nothing like being on the field. You see a lot more when you’re standing at the plate watching a ball you hit or when you’ve fielded a ball.

You said it yourself… “long fly ball to right” - that guy on third is going to score more often than not on a long fly ball.

This is another case of brash statements and weak arguments against Bobby Cox.

By what else????

June 13, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this

Well, rock bottom will be when we exhaust all possible ways to lose a one-run game.

Back in the late 80’s, in the cellar-dweller years, I recall the Braves managed to lose a game by balking in the winning run with the bases loaded.

THAT is rock bottom.

By TPM

June 13, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

Let’s tell the truth about this jurrasic park rotation that failed.

” Bulldog ” Mike Hampton has not pitched 200 innings since 2001 and has been a no-show for the last two years. Mike Hampton needs to go away and stop stealing money. ( Sorry Buck Belue - the truth hurts)

John Smoltz fell and hurt his shoulder last May of 2007 and then was rewarded with a 14 million dollar contract. Smoltz needs to go away and stop stealing money.

Hometown Discount Tom Glavine has an era of 4.85 and struggles to get 15 outs a start. Glavine needs to go away and stop stealing money

By MIke S

June 13, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

LOL CC - We are on the same wavelength. I was saying last night on the Braves MLB board that it is time for good old-fashioned press out in the hallway scaring clubhouse meltdown. Cox needs to have a good ole chair throwing spittle flying cuss word tossing come to jesus meeting with this team.

Yes, they are weakened by all the DL payers, but that is no excuse for sitting around in the dugout with no life, standing at the plate watching your Fly out to right, etc. — Bobby needs to light a fire under these guys and he needs to light it now. Send some players to the Minors (ICOSTYOU!!!! BLOWYER!!!), Make a trade (ANY TRADE), bench some people, throw a tantrum — whatever it takes.

Bobby already has the ejection record, so how about tonight if there is a bad call, just go ballistic. Toss a base or two, throw bats out of the dugout, kick some dirt on the umpire. So what if Bobby gets suspended for a couple games — DO SOMETHING TO FIRE THIS TEAM UP!!!!!

By MIke S

June 13, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this

LOL CC - We are on the same wavelength. I was saying last night on the Braves MLB board that it is time for good old-fashioned press out in the hallway scaring clubhouse meltdown. Cox needs to have a good ole chair throwing spittle flying cuss word tossing come to jesus meeting with this team.

Yes, they are weakened by all the DL payers, but that is no excuse for sitting around in the dugout with no life, standing at the plate watching your Fly out to right, etc. — Bobby needs to light a fire under these guys and he needs to light it now. Send some players to the Minors (ICOSTYOU!!!! BLOWYER!!!), Make a trade (ANY TRADE), bench some people, throw a tantrum — whatever it takes.

Bobby already has the ejection record, so how about tonight if there is a bad call, just go ballistic. Toss a base or two, throw bats out of the dugout, kick some dirt on the umpire. So what if Bobby gets suspended for a couple games — DO SOMETHING TO FIRE THIS TEAM UP!!!!!

By coach k

June 13, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this

Well its glad to see the rest of Braves nation voicing cause for 14 yrs I have been saying it. Cox will be the most overrated mgr to go to hall of fame,pitching bailed him out and it should have produced 4 championships. Time to sent TP packing and notice to Cox your next, send Frency down to the minors and see if he gets it there and set your lineup as follows 1) blanco 2) escobar 3)Chipper 4) tex and he to needs to start producing 5) mccann 6) Kelly 7) infante 8) any outfielder other than Frenchy 9) pitcher get rid of corky for God’s sake and get Sammons up here now And someone get a case of the Red a@#@ and lets get the passion back its not too late but in 20 days it will be

By Graham

June 13, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this

Tomahawk Matt I agree that Bobby handles his players like a boss should, behind closed doors. However, the problem is that, if he is having these one-on-one meetings, they are failing to make any kind of impact whatsoever. It is the same thing, day after day, nothing is changing. Something needs to be done to shake-up the club-house and whatever he is saying to his players isn’t working. I certainly don’t think Bobby Cox needs to be fired, but someone needs to step up and make some changes. And the Braves are not playing fundamental baseball. Example: Kelly Johnson dropping the last out of the Phillies game. Rather than catch it and cover it, he doesn’t cover it, and the ball pops out = another Braves loss. The Braves being unable to bunt is a huge problem, although I think that they are working on that.

The younger players need to listen to the coaches and some of them think that now they are in the Bigs, they don’t have to listen. Unfortunately, there are quite a few young players on this team who still have a great deal of learning to do.

By CT.

June 13, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this

Braves organization,Please don’t make us have 3 Pro teams that stink.We can all see when this started. Leo, sorry they wouldn’t give you the money and respect you deserved. Tomahawk Matt, if Bobby is doing anything behind closed doors it’s WORKING REALLY GREAT!@#$% Shut off!!! Wren, you have helped ruin the one sports team we were proud of. Thanks

By Graham

June 13, 2008 12:17 PM | Link to this

Coach K

I don’t totally agree with your post, but I will say that you hit the nail on the head with one word: PASSION. It seems that the passion they once had is hidden. I am not saying that it is gone, but they are so used to the way things are that the passion is hidden. It needs to be reignited, and quickly.

By Peter

June 13, 2008 12:17 PM | Link to this

Well this has been a combination of many problems……. for starters how much have we got tied up in Glavin and Hampton?

That is management’s fault.

Then we have very poor fundamental play, this is the coaches fault, for not expecting and getting more out of the players.

Then we have zero patience at the plate with runners in scoring position, this is the players fault.

The players also seem to loose their focus during games, and this is another issue we have.

Finally our players are suspect in certain positions, and maybe some are a bit young and have to grow into Major League Players?

Time to dismantle this team, and create a new program. Look at the Red Sox team, they have blended young talent with SPEED, and steady players who are consummate Pros.

They have developed players in their Farm system, and then got good Free agents that compliment the entire program…….. that is solid management.

Also they have a gamer for a coach, not some old guy who has had his run.

Yes they DO have a high payroll, but other teams are doing as well with much less money spent.

My thoughts are look at their formula, because it IS WORKING!

Don’t get me wrong COX is a great coach, but past his prime, and we all know it!

He is a Hall of Fame guy in my book, but they guy has not gotten this team out of third place in how many years?

Time for a change I think!

By Graham

June 13, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this

Peter

Your points are right on. But, you cannot compare the Braves to the Red Sox. The Red Sox have something the Braves don’t: an open check-book. They sign players that they draft to huge signing bonuses, and then pay them overzealously when they hit the majors. They sign talen, but not without a price. The Braves are limited to what they can do financially. This is the problem with corporate ownership.

By TheCutMan

June 13, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this

Again to T-Matt:

re: Cox handling discipline issues in private. All well and good but IF he’s doing it consistently, which I doubt, why are the poor fundamentals and lack of hustle continually getting repeat performances?

re: Cox’s method, overall How well has THAT been working out this year?

re: Francoeur conceding a run in a close ball game on a long fly. What has he got to lose by attempting the throw in a bandbox ballpark?

Sorry, but I’m seeing a team taking the easy way out, rolling over and being comfortable losing. All roads and fingers have to point to the guy in charge.

By fieldofdreams

June 13, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this

In 1912 the Titanic left England bound for New York carrying 2200 passengers. Although she was hailed as the most seaworthy vessel ever built, after colliding with an iceberg, Titanic sank, slowly but surely, in the icy North Sea, killing 1500 of it’s customers. Let me suggest that losing Smoltz was the Braves’ collision with an ice cold fate that’s only beginning to unfold. And pathetic Frank Wren is our shipbuilder, befuddled as to how his expensive ship could so easily come unglued. Women and children first; strike up a dirge, director, while the rest of us drown, and drown we will. Sadly, when they salvage the wreckage, historians will note that the only connection between our championship teams and this one is the uniform.

By TBraveFan

June 13, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this

Always say “Never say Never or Always” - and never ask if things can get worse… because they usually will

By Will

June 13, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

Sadly this is not rock bottom. The braves are not even there yet. Im not sure when its going to come either. all i do know is they are gonna get swept again this wknd and as long as they have that senile idiot managing they are not gonna get any better.

By Go Sox

June 13, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this

They’re done. Having a starting rotation held together with Ace bandages and Ben Gay has finally caught up with us. The bullpen, widely expected to be the weak spot on the team, actually became the reason the Braves won so many to start the year.

You CANNOT go through an entire season when your starting pitchers (with the exception of Hudson) cannot go more than 6 innings. You HAVE to find guys who can go 5 on a bad night, 6 on an average night, 7 on a good night and 8 on a great night. We have one (the aforementioned Hudson.) Glavine is a 6 innings at best guy, and his velocity is gone. He’s throwing grapefruits. JJ and JoJo have been good. Great prospects for the future. I have them as #2 and 3 on my starter list for the Braves. Smoltz is as good as they come. He’s been so good for so long. That longevity has finally caught up with him. If he’s not done for good - he’s a lifetime reliever now. Hampton can’t sneeze without fracturing something.

The Braves need STARTING pitching more than anything in the world. If we start getting 7 innings a night from the starters, the bullpen becomes immediately better.

Agree with comments on Francoeur. I love him. I’m a big fan. He needs to learn how to try to hit singles. Bloopers score runs too. Not everything has to go 450 feet. Start hitting for average and then pitchers have to start pitching more carefully. As long as they don’t groove a fastball or hang a curve, he’s likely out.

As for Tex, Chipper and McCann (and Yunie and Kelly) keep hitting it! This a potentially GREAT Braves lineup.

By Ron H

June 13, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this

Everyone relax.

Our pitching staff is depleted due to injuries. I bet that Wren and gang are working on a trade right now that may surprise us…no way is Wren going to sit idle and watch a season go down the drain at this point…

we’re close to being out, but not out yet…we’ve got a little time. 2/3 of a season is a long time still.

i bet we get a SP or two before the ALL STAR BREAK…at least, i hope we do.

gooo braves

By MIke S

June 13, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this

Ron H - unfortunately I have the feeling that the trade you are expecting is going to come this weekend while we are in Southern Cal, and will involve yet another 43 year old former Brave.

There is a reason why the head-scratching bring brandon Jones up move was made - Brandon and Stockman are going to San Diego for a certain Pitcher by the name of Mad Dog.

By Jordan

June 13, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this

The Braves season is over unless they are willing to go get some of the big name players like they used to. Everyone is always saying the Braves do not have that much money to spend. They might not spend what they used to, but they sure do spend it on a bunch of old guys. I love Smoltz, but for everyone involved I hope he will retire. That will free up $14 million in payroll for next year. Hampton’s salary will go off the books next year as well at $15 million. Wish the Glavine experiment would have worked, but his salary of $7 million will be gone next year. I like Mark Kotsay, but is he worth $7 million? That salary can be shed as well in 2009. It has also said by some that Chipper will retire after the 2009 season. That is another $15 million in payroll freed up after the 2009 season. That comes to a whopping grand total of $58 million dollars that could be freed up after the 2009 season with $51 million being freed up after the 2008 season. Point being that the Braves do spend money. It’s just been on a lot of older guys. Wish it would’ve worked out, but it clearly has not. The Braves still have a chance this season if they could trade for Sabathia. They can afford to offer him a 6 yr $19 million (per season) contract. He’s only 28 years old and is in the early stages of his prime. We have the trade bait: Lillebridge, Schaeffer, and throw in a pitcher of two. Lillibridge is blocked by Escobar. We probably wouldn’t want to give up Schaeffer, but it is worth it for a still relatively young Sabathia. I think all would agree that this is a good risk worth taking. We should also lock up Tex to around the same deal if we have to. He is GOLD GLOVE, SWITCH HITTING, POWER, first baseman. And forget about locking up Francoeur…he turned down a 4 yr $24 million contract. He doesn’t deserve more. We have McCann locked up with a 6 yr $24 million deal. I’m hoping for the best. Consider next year’s lineup:

1. Blanco CF
2. Escobar SS
3. Chipper 3B
4. Teixera 1B
5. McCann C
6. Francoeur RF
7. Johnson 2B

8. Diaz/Infante LF

9. Sabathia

10. Hudson
11. Jurrjens
12. Reyes
13. Campillo

SU Bennett SU Moylan SU Boyer SU Ohman SU Soriano ? CL Gonzalez

By DC IN WI

June 13, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this

I WAS AT WRIGLEY YESTERDAY. I’VE BEEN A BRAVE’S FAN SINCE I WAS BORN. YESTERDAY WAS HARD TO TAKE. BASES LOADED IN THE 8TH. NO ONE OUT AND YOU DON’T SCORE. I KNEW AT THAT POINT THE GAME WAS LOST. SOMETHING AS TO GIVE. THEY CAN’T WAIT TO MUCH LONGER TO DO SOMETHING.

By Valerie

June 13, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this

The Braves haven’t hit bottom yet - they will after they lose 3 straight to the Angels. The Angels have the best record in the AL despite having their star players off and on the DL all season (sound familiar?) and batting that is only just now beginning to wake up. Vlad is starting to hit now, and the Angels are on the upswing. Bring out the brooms now.

By NO MORE BOBBY

June 13, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this

Promo idea that will pack out Turner Field for the upcoming home games…..

1. KICK A PLAYER IN THE BUTT - fans get to stand in line and kick random players that have stunk in recent games. Kelly Johnson and Manny Acosta wouldn’t be able to sit down for weeks after this event.

2. BRING A 90 YEAR OLD TO THE GAME AND LET THEM MANAGE THE NINTH INNING - we might find our new skipper with this promo.

3. DEATH TO DISCO - I say we bring back the famous 70’s Chicago White Sox promo and let all the frustrated Braves fans let out our anger on the field after the Mariners beat us in extra innings. We can even combine the butt kicking promo (on Acosta who loses the game) with blowing up stuff.

DISCO SUCKS AND SO DO THE 2008 BRAVES!!!

By Einstein

June 13, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this

Go TheCutMan…I totally agree with your assessment. My only comment about Bobby Cox is “never has anyone done so little with so much”. And, what has happened to our farm system? Can any of you tell me the last really good starting pitcher (or for that matter a really good reliever) that has come up in our farm system? BTW, I think T-Matt may be Bobby Cox. Peace.

By Don Knotts

June 13, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this

Omar Infante, Gregor Blanco, Greg Norton - that’s all you need to say. These three BOOBS should not be in our starting lineup - they are so weak.

Kelly Johnson is responsible for this recent downward spiral when he dropped the game-winning out #3 last Friday night. Since that point, we haven’t won a single game. Move that goober back to the outfield and let’s get a real second baseman on second base.

WHAT A JOKE KELLY!!!!

By Casey-Tiffany

June 13, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

Anyone notice we have gone downhill since Leo Mazzone left?? Miss his sitting with Cocks, rocking back and forth, back and forth. Reminds me of my honeymoon with Johnny. We need a transfusion of grit, all American style. Even “Mets Beat” site is laughing at us. Gotta run, have a salon appointment with Greco, he is divine.

By NO MORE BOBBY

June 13, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

Tomahawk Matt is NOT Bobby Cox because the real Cox would not dare bring up the subject of someone being old in his blog.

By ssiscribe

June 13, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

Get swept by the best team in baseball, and what’s on deck? A trip to play the second-best team in baseball.

Wow, we’re really seeing how the other half lives this week, aren’t we?

The Braves are taking June swoon to a whole new level.

—30—

By Tomy Fournier

June 13, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this

I don’t saing nothing…Atlanta suck.

By Qwerty

June 13, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

Lollygaggers.. we lollygag to first, we lollygag to second..

You know what that makes us?

Lollygaggers.

By nelson

June 13, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

glavine comeback >? smoltz still a comeback again ? hampton>? cmon stop steal a braves money !!

By Taylor S

June 13, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

When will the front office realize that we have needed more starting pitching from the get go. We need a trade on par with Teixiera to really shake this club up. Why not go after Sabathia and have the potential for a Jurjens, Sabathia, Hudson, Glavine/Reyes rotation. To me it’s a no brainer. Teixiera is clearly gone and at this point, who cares. Why not use his $20m+ and go after 2 young stud pitchers who could be the face of the rotation for 10+ years. Ridiculous

By Taylor S

June 13, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this

When will the front office realize that we have needed more starting pitching from the get go. We need a trade on par with Teixiera to really shake this club up. Why not go after Sabathia and have the potential for a Jurjens, Sabathia, Hudson, Glavine/Reyes rotation. To me it’s a no brainer. Teixiera is clearly gone and at this point, who cares. Why not use his $20m+ and go after 2 young stud pitchers who could be the face of the rotation for 10+ years. Ridiculous

By Kashi

June 13, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this

This is the product of trading YOUNG talents for VETERNS players with history of injuries for less $$$. Didn’t Bobby Cox and Frenk Wren said, “We have surplus of starting and relivers pitcher this year?”. Jeez has anyone checked DEVINE’s and TAYLER YATES stats lately? Yates have gave only 9 hits since May 22. And surprisingly Joey Devine has 3-W, gave only 7 hits since May 3, and 3 HR in 42 innings. Where we would be today if we haven’t traded these two guys? Well..it would be selfish not to give credit to Mark Kotsay but I just can’t expect much for Kotsay. Someone tell Bobby and Frank Wren Never is too much when you have 160 games.

By Token Gringo

June 13, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this

Wow, watching games has gotten painful. Already faced with a putrid economy and an extended recovery, and now watching the Braves makes me physically ill. It would be nice if Chipper could throw some bats and coolers during the game, but then again, he’d probably dislocate something or hit Hampton in the lower leg, thus causing his death, then be arrested for negligent homicide and spend the rest of his life in jail. That’s just the way it’s going right now. I was planning to go to some games later this month, but not with the uninspired play. I’d rather watch my grass grow. At least show us you care a little Braves! The business attitude has cost you 3 World Series, and you cannot win just by showing up anymore. Now go play ball!

By nelson

June 13, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this

please fans : send a email to liberty media , to fire bobby cox

http://www.libertymedia.com/contact/default.htm

By george

June 13, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this

I agree, the Braves do suck right now, but you idiots who think Francouer should have thrown the ball home yesterday are just that, idiots. There’s no way he throws out even the slowest runner, and the end result would have been tying run on second. If that had happened and the Cubs tied the game at that point, you folks would be screaming for Francouer’s head for doing something dumb. The blame for yesterday’s defeat goes to the three clowns who struck out with the bases loaded and no outs…TWO WITH THE BAD ON THEIR SHOULDER ON PERFECT PITCHES. That isn’t the fault of Bobby Cox. The Braves problems go much deeper than Bobby Cox.

By lin

June 13, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

i do not care what is said one can not compare stats for richmond and atl players its all together different for pitchers and hitters come up not all can handle it first yr and thats same on a trade from ntl to american some can adjust some take awhile. i said they end up 3rd now wonder if be last.sorry see all this going on at once but it happens to all teams one real bad year and this is it for atl i guess.need take bb. and not let him come in last 2 innings to pitch. let other guys try what u got loose just another game but u may be suprised.acosta another problem he not a closer. come on bobby admit its time to go and humble yourself. let someone else new ideas bring braves back to being the braves

By zaz

June 13, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this

Maybe Frank Wren can visit Roger Clemens next week when braves visit Texas. Maybe talk him out of retirement. Why not they have already wasted millions on Hampton and Glavine? Get well soon Smoltz believe you do have a little left in that arm. Barry Bonds has to be better option in left field as well. Will work for Bobby’s wait for the 3 run homer mentality.

By zaz

June 13, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this

Maybe Frank Wren can visit Roger Clemens next week when braves visit Texas. Maybe talk him out of retirement. Why not they have already wasted millions on Hampton and Glavine? Get well soon Smoltz believe you do have a little left in that arm. Barry Bonds has to be better option in left field as well. Will work for Bobby’s wait for the 3 run homer mentality.

By jonny

June 13, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this

Got a late start on this new blog - there is not enough chicken to break this swoon - I am stuffed and nothing has changed! I will say that the negatos are in full bloom on the blog - as much as I hate to see the Braves lose, I hate it even more that a bunch of whining, know-nothings have all the answers. As if they have played a day of ball in the big leagues - instead of sharpening their cleats for a little game-changing slides, they are using dull wits to bark at the men who play the game. My father once scolded me for criticizing a major leaguer: “That man is playing ball at the highest level, and until you are at his level, you keep your opinions to yourself.” My dad played in the Cardinals’ organization before WWII called him to a better life, that of a soldier. He was right, and most of you negatos are not - CC! I look forward to tomorrow’s post and the joy of another Braves win.

By suzee

June 13, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this

Why does anyone need to light a fire under these guys. They’re adults, being paid to do a job. Why can’t they light their own fire. Seem none of them take pride in what they are doing or in this case, not doing.

By Taylor S

June 13, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

Johnny, How bout you get off your high horse and wake up to the 20th century. With exception to a few players (Chipper, Pujols, etc) today’s guys play the game strictly for the money. The fact that the everyday fan (such as all of us on this blog) are virtually paying their salaries, we have every right to comment on their pitiful play. The fact that the Braves are only 2 games under 500 can be mostly attributed to injuries, but when you have some pathetic players like Acosta, Kelly Johnson, etc who just make mistake after mistake, then something clearly needs to change. This team hasn’t shown any ounce of fire since about 2003 other than the brief time last season after the Teixeira trade. Then we go through the offseason making little noise as usual and should we be surprised that we are getting the same results? Uh I don’t think so. We wont even come close to returning to the top of the league until we sign some serious pitching prospects instead of having 3 of 5 rotation being overpaid, overthehill pitchers. With that being said, Smoltz is admired for his effort but at 41, he shouldve been our backup plan and not our backbone.

By genuinebravesfan

June 13, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this

Well, here’s my two cents worth I used to count the minutes before each Braves telecast on the old TBS. It was so good to watch Glavine, Maddux, Smoltz and Avery plow thru the opposing lineups. Nowadays it seems like the 2008 Seattle Mariners have exchanged uniforms with the Braves. The Mariners are a poor 24-42 in the AL West 16.5 games back. Hopefully, the Braves won’t go down that far, but it doesn’t look promising. Chipper Jones batting over .400 and Brian McCann a consistent 300+ hitter are the only two guys that you can just about count on to get a hit when they stand in the box. The other guys, especially Francoeur, don’t seem to get it. Teixeira is nowhere near living up to his potential. I sit there every night wondering what new way the Braves will find to lose the game. I don’t have all the answers and it seems the Braves staff doesn’t either. I have made my mind up to cheer for My Braves, win or lose. Maybe at some point they will get it together and at least compete on a consistent basis. They can start by not striking out with the bases loaded. What this team really needs is a shakeup. Bobby Cox needs to clean out a spot in the clubhouse after a loss and have a freakin’ fit. Put the fear of God into their hearts. Send some of them to the minors or something. It just appears that some of these guys don’t have the desire to win anymore. No one can be blamed for all the injuries but those that are healthy can at least look like they are trying to win.

By Jonny

June 13, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

BTW, When my Daddy handed out that scolding, he said, this is gonna hurt you more than it does me… then spanked me, turned around, and said, ‘Now Do Me’. Hello there, Tiff.

By IndianaBrave

June 13, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this

Huddy was cramping so bad, that he had to have a TON of IV fluid. That’s whay he had to come out. Not Bobby’s fault.

But here is what IS bobby’s fault:

1) Boyer is a joke. He is a terrible pitcher. He walks way too many hitters and always gives up runs. He escaped the eighth and Bobby put him back in for the ninth. HUH?? Then, with Ohman (the brightest part of the bullpen) ready, he leaves Boyer in to face the lefty who tied the ballgame. Seriously, were any of you surprised?

2)Manny Acosta (ICostYa) is PATHETIC! He doesn’t belong on a Mexican league team let a lone a team with playoff aspiratons. That being said, why does the old man keep letting him pitch? And in late innings? He is ALWAYS good for a few runs. He has FIVE losses. FIVE!! From your closer! IT’S JUNE FRICKIN 13TH! When your “closer” has five losses by the middle of June, it is time to cut your losses.

But here’s the thing. It’s not like the Braves are paying Boyer and ICostYa millions. Combned they make less than $800,000 a year. So why keep letting these guys ruin your season? Waive them, release them, send them down, whatever! But get them out of Atlanta! And for crissakes Bobby, STOP LETTING THEM PITCH!

My advise: 1-Package Francoeur and Johnson for Zack Greinke. 2-Bring up B. Jones, and J. Shafer. 3-Trade Tex for a PROVEN ace-type starter. 4-DO NOT pay Glavine, Smoltz, Hampton, and Kotsay past this year 4-Ask Bobby Cox to void the extension he just signed. 5-Apologize PROFUSELY to Chipper, B Mac, and Huddy for wasting a year of their career and beg for forgiveness.

That should breathe some life into this DEAD team. Remember what brought you success in the 90s, PITCHING! Remember why you didn’t win more than one WS, BOBBY COX!

A rotation with Huddy, Jair, Greinke, and Lincecum, Harden, or Sabathia would areturn this once proud franchise to the playoffs. Get on it Frank!

By Del

June 13, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this

To Tommahawk Matt

I disagree to this extent: Bobby can not do the players job, but he can hand out a significant blow between the eyes with a 2x4 by immediately pulling the player off the field and benching him. That not only gets the attention of the player being disciplined, but gets the attention of the whole team. There were several instances where this could have been done Thurs nite.

I will assure you —- this is an attention getter that no one on the team would mis-read!!!

By IndianaBrave

June 13, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this

Atlanta Braves record June 2006:

6-21

Atlanta Braves record june 2008:

3-8

After a sweep in Anaheim (their fourth in five series) and losing 2 of 3 in Texas, this season will officially be over just like in 2006.

They are 4-12 in their last 16 and after this weekend will be 4-15 in their last 19. They will be doule digits out of first place and six games under .500

These guys can’t get it done. It’s time to try some new players. The only position players who should still be in the starting lineup are Chipper, BMac, and Yunel.

This should be the starting lineup for the rest of the season:

1-Josh Anderson LF 2-Yunel Escobar SS 3-Chipper Jones 3B 4-Teixeira 1B (if you can’t move him) 5-Brian McCann C 6-Kelly Johnson 2B (move him) 7-Jordan Shafer CF 8-Brandon Jones RF

When Prado is healthy, he should be the starting 2B for the rest of the season and bat 8th.

Why did we trade FIVE prospects for less than a year of Teixeira? Whay a bum move. There was never any intention of re-signing him. The Braves hate Boras and don’t renegotiate during the season. He was always going to file for free agancy after this year and the Yanks, Sox, and Mets, will all offer him way more than the Braves will pay. I just don’t get it.

By PMC

June 13, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this

Maybe renaming the disabled list after Mike Hampton will work…..

Seriously, next rolled over outside pitch to double play or strike out with runners on… just start beating them as they get back in the dugout. Eventually, they start taking the pitches they get.

By Taylor S

June 13, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this

In response to all these Bobby Cox comments, I cannot argue that he has been one of the best coaches ever and I love his ejections, but don’t you think that his laid back ways might have been part of the reason we’ve only won 1 WS in 15 years of dominating? I mean for christ sake, look at Ozzie Guillen who fires off at everyone on the team and then the team goes out and wins 8 straight. by no means am I comparing the two b/c Cox is one of the best ever, but a little fire here and there could really lift a team that’s down and out. Even with the injuries I still think we have the team to compete, but when some of these Braves get too complacent, is when we find odd ways to lose. The fact that we just tied the consecutive road 1 run losing record is pathetic. I’m all for an internal Braves brawl. At least that way, they’ll play with some passion.

By CT

June 13, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

Taylor s My thoughts about Jonny to the T. Jonny thank your Dad for serving our country,but I think you got beaned in the head by a bad pitch.People like you need to stay off the blogs we are already frustrated enough. Shut your piehole!

By Jonny

June 13, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this

CT is mad beacuse they recently removed Hee Haw for some educational prograsmming. Georgia Tech boys are a tought bunch, there, grits hitter, so please dont treat me and my lady friend Tiff bad, or we can meet at Peidmont and Ponce ..waffle House. Bet your mammy is a paisan, whats the difference tw,een her and an elephant…50 pounds and a black dress.

By Jonny

June 13, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

CT is mad beacuse they recently removed Hee Haw for some educational prograsmming. Georgia Tech boys are a tought bunch, there, grits hitter, so please dont treat me and my lady friend Tiff bad, or we can meet at Peidmont and Ponce ..waffle House. Bet your mammy is a paisan, whats the difference tw,een her and an elephant…50 pounds and a black dress.

By ct

June 13, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this

Man jonny, I got to say I thought you were just covering up. I thought you was Acosta or kelly, but I NOW KNOW YOU ARE (BR549) JR.Samples or Buck Owens.(not sure) Oh yea, Shut your piehole!!!!

By Robert

June 13, 2008 7:17 PM | Link to this

This is not rock bottom. Addiction science theory maintains that hitting rock bottom is what is required for one to quit foolin oneself and admit the problem

The day that the powers that be within the Braves organization admit that Bobby Cox is the problem - whatever precipitates that needed moment of honesty and clarity - that will be rock bottom

And then the healing can begin. It wont be easy. First the team will have to deal with the loss of its beloved father figure manager. Then they will have to work themselves out of “stupid mode” the almost trancelike malaise that they have been conditioned to play in for as long as they have been Braves

This will take half a season. But then you’ll start to see it. Hustle. Spark. DESIRE! And then before you know it the team will find themselves contenders, for the first time since 1996.

Because make no mistake. A contender is a team that has a chance to win the big prize. The Braves of 96-05 won a lot of regular season games, but not a one of those teams had a chance at the big prize. Oh they shouldve - heck they shouldve not just had a chance but shouldve won it all in 96,97,and 99 at the VERY LEAST. But they had no chance.

And once you understand that they had no chance and WHY they had no chance, well then, clarity

By steve

June 13, 2008 7:25 PM | Link to this

Bobby Cox should do himself a favor and resign now because his managing gets worse each season; only bad decisions lead to so many 1 run losses; pendleton has been a terrible hitting coach and our lineup only has 5 big league hitters starting which is a direct result of poor coaching; if the players don”t listen to their coach then bench them or fire the coach.

By steve

June 13, 2008 7:26 PM | Link to this

Bobby Cox should do himself a favor and resign now because his managing gets worse each season; only bad decisions lead to so many 1 run losses; pendleton has been a terrible hitting coach and our lineup only has 5 big league hitters starting which is a direct result of poor coaching; if the players don”t listen to their coach then bench them or fire the coach.

By CT

June 13, 2008 10:51 PM | Link to this

Me, Jonny and Tiifany agreed to bury the hatchet…at TomaHawks house tonight. WEW, a fun night of Hee Haw, Braves losing, andz us winning. Ride Em Cowboy Heeeee Hawwww.

By santa3247

June 14, 2008 6:27 AM | Link to this

Hi, I’m Seong-Ho,Yoon living in Jinhae city southkorea.

Babylon’s friend players sending order to implanted manager^^What about my word power? streak lost end.^^

Theseday Babylonians are playing through world’s bank, for fear of someone’s helping me money.

Why? I can make The White Stone and can protect refuge from Babylon and can present refuge Morning Star and can make slave to overcome neutron and can teach the Force of Messiah and can exert the power of Golden Censer and can guide people to Messianic Era.

Many Certification sheet they are forging now too.^*^

BABYLON CAN INTERCEPT E-MAIL, INTERNATIONAL PHONE, DELIVERY SERVICE BETWEEN YOU AND ME AT MOST IMPORTANT TIMING.

BABYLON CAN MAKE VOICE OF MINE EXACTLY AND MAKE A PHONE CALL WITH MY VOICE, BUT TONE IS DIFFERENT.

THEREFORE PEOPLE HAVE TO GET ONLY ONE ID, E-MAIL ADDRESS, CELLPHONE NUMBER, PHONENUMBER.

IF a firm of cellphone or phonenumber could change your cellphone number or phonenumber to another, 100% Babylon could change your numbers to another at anytime.

E-mail is exactly same status.

And whole kinds of light-speed cable are being used by women and friends of Babylon for searching resonance schumann internet.

Look!! in your www. If you would post writting, you have to write in writting window. And the layer of writting is can be freely changeable world and after clicking your writting return to WWW. Understand?

But, resonance schumann internet exist on very this changeable layer. This layer can be freely controlled by Babylon.

Secret public exist in this layer. So many women are using this layer secretly under the help of United Nation.

In this layer, babylonians and whole frauds have deceived people over the world.

In this layer, babylon and their friends can attack implanted people’s brain waves.

But, the women and USA people who using this layer would be implanted, immediately must be changed into troops of Babylon and could attack USA People.

Whole kinds of this fraud can be done over the basis of Giga-byte 3D-neutron matrix which is being radiated from the antenna of Seoul Tower.

So if USA would try to delete this Horn of Satan, Box of Pandora, in first USA must destroy it. And after that, whole kinds of these machine would be out of order, and whole slaves over the world would be freed.

After that people on earth can be ready for the last judgement of 1,290days from Jun 12th 2009 to Dec 22th 2012.

Or people on earth must be exterminated by the ruling of Babylon’s neutron.

May The Book of Life be with you^*^

P.S: Savior don’t exist. You have to be qualified for salvation. The biggest prize of God come from killing Demon and Devil and Satan, and now Babylonian and their friends are host of demon and devil and satan. And the weapon of them is antennas of Neutron including Resonance Schumann and High Active Auroal Research Project.