Chop Chick

By geekboy

February 19, 2009 2:42 PM | Link to this

Though I wish it were otherwise, I think Frenchie is simply to thickheaded to hit in this league where the pitchers are NOT relying purely on power. In the majors, pitchers can locate. Frenchie cannot control his swing. Now, or ever most likely.

He will hit about .250, with paltry power numbers. For someone as big and strong as he is, it is a joke. There are pitchers that could hit for better power and average if they hit every day!

By lilchrissy

February 19, 2009 2:49 PM | Link to this

The White Sox won a WS playing station-to-station ball, which is something the Braves abandoned a long time ago. Whatever happened to the art of timely hitting in MLB, stealing, manufacturing runs?

Guys like Frenchy are almost always swinging for the fences with men on when we just need a base hit. Time to stop thinking “SportsCenter highlight” and start remembering that you need only one run more than your opponent to win a baseball game.

geekboy, are we going to Braves game this season? I’ll buy the beer.

By ChrisFromChattanooga

February 19, 2009 3:04 PM | Link to this

My gut feeling is that Jeff is going to rebound from last year’s disappointing season and hit about .270 with 25 HRs and 85 RBIs. You’ll see. Also … if you don’t like his arm in RF then you just don’t know baseball. He’s carrying a loaded weapon!

By VaBravesfan

February 19, 2009 3:06 PM | Link to this

I agree with you on Griffey. I don’t think he would have made much difference. That being said, I hope I don’t have to endure Gregor Blanco for a whole season, either.

By Howard

February 19, 2009 3:08 PM | Link to this

Frenchy will always swing for the fence. Bobby Cox has forgotten what small ball is. Get them on, get them over, get them home. He still waits for the long ball. As for Jr. I wasn’t crazy over him coming over. I don’t like rent a players.

By lana

February 19, 2009 3:14 PM | Link to this

It’s possible Frenchy has learned some big lessons. It will depend on how he starts the season. He’s a front runner and can do marveleous things when things are going well. When he doesn’t live up to his own expectations, as well as the fans and the press, the monkeys come out of the shadows and get into his head. If that happens again, this year, he could end up like Andrew Jones.

By DLo

February 19, 2009 3:15 PM | Link to this

are you guys kidding me?!?!?! ChopChick, who are you? What do you know about baseball? And how can someone who doesn’t even have a full face picture or a real name start talking about Francoeur? GeekBoy….seriously? You guys obviously have no clue what it takes to make it in the bigs and what these guys go through on a daily basis with minor nagging injuries 99mph fastballs and fans like ChopChick and Geekboy acting like they have a clue what they are talking about. No doubt you two probably own cats and think they are better than dogs. Stop writing, both of you, Frenchy is too good for u guys.

By Mac

February 19, 2009 3:24 PM | Link to this

You’re a really good writer, Chop Chick. Insightful and smart.

By techgirl

February 19, 2009 3:27 PM | Link to this

If Frenchy would quit swinging at the low, outside offspeed pitch, then maybe he will improve this year. if not, it’s going to be another long season for him.

By bvillebaron

February 19, 2009 3:35 PM | Link to this

Chop Chick:

Maybe you could give Frechy a couple of pointers on how to hit the ball. Sure he struggled mightily last year and did not handle his slump and demotion as well as he could. However, what is your basis for saying that Frenchy refused to listen to Chipper, TP and McCann? For all his problems last year, the one thing I never heard anyone claim was that he was stubborn (like Andruw Jones) and refused to listen to advice. At times it seemed to me that he was listening to TOO much advice from TOO many sources.

By TBraveFan

February 19, 2009 3:37 PM | Link to this

Way to stand behind your favorite team - NOT!

After reading all the things Jeff’s said, done, and knowing him a bit, I have NO DOUBT whatsoever that he will prove his worth this season.
He’s a good kid - good parents, well grounded and he’s not dumb by any means - again no doubt in my mind he’s back on track!

Like last season, I totally support Jeff 100% and will cheer him on thru thick and thin just as I would any other player with a tomahawk on the front of his jersey!

and btw - I AM TOTALLY GLAD WE DID NOT GET MR. DL GRIFFEY!

By Mel

February 19, 2009 3:49 PM | Link to this

I agree with Bville Baron. From everything the AJC was reporting last year, Francoer was listening to everyone. That whole “too many cooks” expression comes to mind. Didn’t Chipper’s dad come up and work with him too??

….Unless you are telling us that the AJC was not telling the truth and they were trying to protect his “Golden Boy” image…..

By North Georgia Wisdum

February 19, 2009 3:50 PM | Link to this

Puhaphs Fanchy should not talk so much to the mediuh. He is on every televison station and radio and his photo is allover the AtJC. I think he a dummy and should not prove it day aftar day in interviews. Let the playing tell the storee not the over running mouth. Plus, he is stupid and childis behavior.

By bailer

February 19, 2009 3:57 PM | Link to this

griffey never had any intention of coming to atlanta only using ajc, chipper,and his so call friend to get all he could from the maeiners. if frenchy does not get out of atlanta he will end up just like A. JONES. he will never be able to change his attitude while he is in this area. he still has that high school attitude and has not groen up.

By North Georgia Wisdum

February 19, 2009 3:59 PM | Link to this

I think Fanchy lost his Delta airline sponser becasue he was stuborn and talks to much. I think he should listen to McCan and learn to hit behind the runnar. Hes just dumb.

By Chop Chick

February 19, 2009 4:14 PM | Link to this

geekboy and lilchrissy, can I come, too?

ChrisFromChattanooga and TBraveFan, I really hope you’re right. I’d like nothing better than to see Francoeur — and the Bravos — have a great season.

To those of you who think Francoeur listened to TP: He had exactly one extra-base hit to right field last year and two others that were just to the right of dead center while his hitting coach was desperately trying to get him to use the entire field.

By Jerry

February 19, 2009 4:18 PM | Link to this

I think Frenchy will have a great year. Remember, I said the Braves would make the playoffs and Smoltz sits at home. For that to happen Frenchy needs that big year.

I always wish we had Baylor back as hitting coach and Corrales as our bench coachc

By glep

February 19, 2009 4:21 PM | Link to this

I think Frenchy will be a whole new player now that he’s no longer bothered by the contract stickin in his craw. You know these guys have egos and when the team gives players you have played all your life with a new contract and keep you at minimum wage when your numbers are as good as frenchy’s was the first two years then you will get things in your head’ too. If that’s immature then the rest of us are in the same boat as he is. As for the sign on Wren’s back, don’t take it off— it’s one of the few he’s been able to complete.

By McRly?

February 19, 2009 4:26 PM | Link to this

What I’m ninterested in, and surprised there hasn’t been great talk of it, is seeing Brandon Jones getting more quality time in LF. He’ll be much improved over last year, that’s my thoughts. His last full season in the minors (07, before he started bouncing between Richmond and ATL) He hit close to .300 with 100 rbi’s and around 20 homers (ya’ll can check that if you want, but I think I’m pretty close). That’s quality, even if it was split between his time in Mississippi and Virginia. He’s that left handed bat we might be looking for against right handed pitching anyway, and you could expect his numbers to be decent since he won’t be facing too many lefty pitchers with Diaz around. And I fully expect Josh Anderson to be our lead off hitter come opening day. All he’s done is hit over .300 since getting to the majors, steal bases with great success percentages and play with reckless abandon when he’s in the field. This is a much better team than people (including Wren, in my opinion) may give it credit for, and these young guns coming up are gonna impress. That’s my honest hope, anyway. And as for Frenchy? If he doesn’t come showing some serious improvement in his plate discipline, he’s toast. Hate to say it, but nobody hacks away with no regard for location that much in the majors and lasts too long. If he reels himself in a little, makes them pitch to him a bit, he’ll be a solid pro.

By Horner's Corner

February 19, 2009 4:36 PM | Link to this

In Frenchy’s 3 full seasons he has not been able to post an OPS above .782 and in 2 of those years he posted a sub .300 OBP. This is not a trivial matter folks; Jeff’s offense (less his first six weeks in 2005) has been rather deficient. I know his supporters like to talk about his consecutive 100+ RBI seasons, but a corner outfielder, playing everyday, batting in the heart of the lineup (4-5-6 holes) SHOULD drive in runs. Now folks are posting (like ChrisfromChattanooga ) that Jeff will have a big comeback season, hitting .270/25/85. No offense, but those are pretty mediocre expectations. Heck, that’s what Escobar and Johnson are capable of and they are playing in more defensive oriented positions.

I like Francoeur and I want him to succeed to help the Braves win, but at this point he is not much of a threat to opponents. If there was one reason I wanted Griffey, it was for his overall presence. Old or not, in a close game the opposing pitcher and manager would have been fully aware of Jr. in the Braves line-up (or bench). Jeff does not strike this type of intimidation into the opposition and that’s what the Braves desperately need.

By Palin

February 19, 2009 4:40 PM | Link to this

Now I can see Griffey from my front yard.

By John Ellison

February 19, 2009 4:53 PM | Link to this

Opposing pitchers are never going to throw strikes to Francoeur, Andruw Jones, or any other batter who continually swings for the fences at balls that are nowhere near the strike zone.

By kjmckillop

February 19, 2009 5:10 PM | Link to this

I hope frenchy has learned that its not all about him.Mom and dad will not be there to tell him how great he is.During spring training he needs to see the ball and hit it.If he continues to go for the fence and pick his head up to watch it will become a short spring.He had better be watching that big guy from georgia who is hungry for his job.

Big Mac

By huckleberry

February 19, 2009 5:13 PM | Link to this

Hahaha, DLo = a chump! Loser, we don’t care what it takes to make it in the bigs, just like the bigs don’t care what it takes on a daily basis to work in our offices, sales floors, and production lines. If you’re in the bigs of any league, you’re expected to perform accordingly. Period. Fans in the stadium, in the shops, and buying sponsors’ product pay the bills, and anyone can have an opinion on professional sports, and anyone can write or broadcast. Sports opinion is a whole industry in itself. You my friend, are a loser at any salary. PS, better make sure that your pals have their fake birth certificates in order.

By Ted Striker

February 19, 2009 5:25 PM | Link to this

ChopChick: First time I’ve read your analysis & comments. Great observation about the one (1) extra base hit JF had to right field. It certainly shows he needs to take a different approach at the plate in ‘09. I likely differ with you on the issue of caring what JF earns. I don’t care what any player makes (or whether he enters arbitration). I’m also skeptical of the theory that JF thinks things are “all about him” — as some have put forth. The truth about most things is usually somewhere in the middle.

Humbly yours, Ted Striker.

By Barnesy

February 19, 2009 5:56 PM | Link to this

I heard frenchy on Sirius/Xm and one of the local newscasts. He started both Spring Training interviews talking about his time on the golf course. Could be a focus problem here.

By mowreck

February 19, 2009 6:54 PM | Link to this

I think they should take the “kick me” sign off Wren’s back too and put it on the AJC’s back. They are the ones who already had him signed as a Brave. When Griffey read the article with his agent he decided to sign with Seattle.

By Maria

February 19, 2009 6:57 PM | Link to this

Just so i can find out and not waste my time…Is this the “Bash Francoeur” site, continuing from last season? — and this season hasn’t even started.
One bad season. Wow. Move on, people.
And how many players head to arbitration, just to settle at the 12th hour? Business.
This is SO old. New subject, please…

By richbrave

February 19, 2009 7:04 PM | Link to this

JUNIOR was comfort food. A known in the unknown zone.

By Braves

February 19, 2009 7:07 PM | Link to this

Everone on the Braves would hit a bit better if they laid off the low outside pitch.

By richbrave

February 19, 2009 7:07 PM | Link to this

Lets put FRANCOUER and ESCOBAR in a locked room and see whose ego is left standing after a good old-fashioned screamin’ “ME….ME….ME” match.!!!!

By kclubmember

February 19, 2009 7:09 PM | Link to this

Jeff Francoeur is probably going to test the free agent market next year.The organization though Frenchie would be a franchise player,but that idea has faded fast.The Braves may be afraid Francoeur will become another Andruw Jones.

By Maria

February 19, 2009 7:25 PM | Link to this

And Andruw Jones had such a bad career…right.

By ChrisFromChattanooga

February 19, 2009 7:41 PM | Link to this

I repeat my earlier statement … Jeff Francouer hits about .270, 25 HRs and around 80 RBIs this year. You’ll see. He just had a bad year and he began to doubt his ability. It was just a loss of confidence. He is still a LOADED WEAPON with that cannon in RF. Try to take the extra base and your picture appears in the obituaries! GO BRAVES!!!!

By North Georgia Wisdum

February 19, 2009 7:46 PM | Link to this

Fanchy is quoted in every Braves story. He even has something to say abouyt Ken Griffe Jr. I think he will be in Missipi in June. Hes a dumb.

By Zerevon

February 19, 2009 8:04 PM | Link to this

JR. was a has been..what the f$#%k he would have done for the Braves, win them a WS well I didn’t think so.. This team is going nowhere..have a fire sale bring the young guns and start the 1991 spirit all over again..remember Sid Bream,Fransisco Cabrera?… Remember when pinch hitter Francisco Cabrera singles to left off of Stan Belinda, scoring David Justice to tie the game while Sid chugs around third. Barry Bond’s throw home is to the first base side, but Pirate catcher Mike LaVallier grabs it and dives back to the plate.Sid is safe..BRAVES WIN… BRAVES WIN……OH YES…! well that is exactly what we need, passionate, hungry players who wants to go all the way..we need NEW BLOOD…Go Braves..

By 35YearBravesFan

February 19, 2009 9:13 PM | Link to this

Francouer has a long way to go to prove to fans he has learned something from last year. And it ain’t all about a new swing. It’s about the attitude between the ears.

I’m glad we signed Glav, disappointed about Jr., but what the heck, we have good youngsters chomping at the bit, give ‘em a chance.

GO BRAVES!!

By Whatever

February 19, 2009 9:43 PM | Link to this

Braves way? Guess it didn’t appeal Burnett,Furcal or Griffey Jr.

By North Georgia Wisdum

February 19, 2009 10:05 PM | Link to this

I think everybody wonts to play for Bobby Cox but nobody wants to really. That’s why they play somewhere else afrer Wren makes an offer. I think Wren souldn’t make offers to them and they wont. Just like Frachy hes dumb.

By Horner's Corner

February 19, 2009 10:06 PM | Link to this

ChrisfromChattanooga - Once again let me say that .270/25/85 is not that impressive for a right fielder. Frenchy has set the bar so low that you are willing to accept average offensive production. Don’t get me wrong though, I’d take it over last year’s performance.

North Georgia Wisdum - You aren’t nearly as funny as I think you think you are. In fact, it’s in pretty poor taste.

By the way, did anyone else seem to think Brandon Jones lacked a little enthusiasm last year? I like his swing, but he seems a little lackadaisical in the field. Is it me?

By maria

February 19, 2009 10:06 PM | Link to this

Quoted in every Braves story? And why would that be? Reporters asking the questions? And who is dumb?

By The Hammer

February 19, 2009 11:49 PM | Link to this

Blah blah blah We don’t have a clean up hitter

By The Hammer

February 19, 2009 11:51 PM | Link to this

*Does management care that we don’t have a cleanup hitter, and no outfielders to speak of? *

By Wayn-o

February 20, 2009 12:07 AM | Link to this

We all want jeff to succeed but he hasn’t, especially since he was expected to take over as the “franchise” player for chipper one day (which last season was supposed to be his break-out year) you know a .280-.300 / 30-35 HRs / 120-135 RBI - clutch hitter. He’s got the attitude of a “big” timer but the production of… Andruw.

He would get more breaks if he was more of a team player

I for one, would love for him to prove me (and just about everyone else) wrong.

By 74DAWG

February 20, 2009 12:20 AM | Link to this

I agree with the above about Griffey-NO BIG DEAL. One weakness Bobby has is hanging w/ worn out vets when some kids are ready to go in the minors. he just won’t play them unless he has no other choice . Hopefully someone will step up in center . That is the real hole. Kelly and a couple others can play or platoon in left. Center is the real hole. I think Francour will be ok in Right,so,again, it’s about centerfield. Hey coach…

By 74DAWG

February 20, 2009 12:20 AM | Link to this

I agree with the above about Griffey-NO BIG DEAL. One weakness Bobby has is hanging w/ worn out vets when some kids are ready to go in the minors. he just won’t play them unless he has no other choice . Hopefully someone will step up in center . That is the real hole. Kelly and a couple others can play or platoon in left. Center is the real hole. I think Francour will be ok in Right,so,again, it’s about centerfield. Hey coach…

By Mike McDonald

February 20, 2009 12:23 AM | Link to this

A fish stinks from the head.

McGuirk rhymes with **. Scherholtz does what these days? Wren is a gooney bird from Baltimore.

How many bozos are needed to spend $100 million on a MLB team that finishes third in its division after failing three consecutive years to make the playoffs? (And, may be lucky to achieve this level in 2009). . Bobby Cox’s strategic blunders, are now highlights, albeit just those from the playoffs, on the new MLB Network cable channel.

Does anyone believe that Terry Pendleton is a bona fide MLB hitting coach? Or that Roger (he with hands jammed into his back pockets) McDowell can even be considered a journeyman major league pitching coach?

Does management have any accountability?

John Malone of Liberty is nobody’s fool. He took the Braves in a slick trade with AOLTW for mega tax benefits; and for the time being has to abide by the edicts of Chief Baseball Bozo Bud (overpaid @ $18 million per and badly overmatched compared with union chief Donald Fehr) Selig. Edicts, which specify that McGuirk, the **, has to remain as CEO of the Braves during the required holding period until a Malone sale of the Braves is permitted.

Soon, Malone will say “enough is enough”, and will “dress the bride” for a marriage. In doing so, he’ll clean house from top to bottom and sacred cows and bozos will not be spared.

Hopefully, someone, such as Arthur Blank, will step up and rebuild the Braves from the top down in a modern day version of Ted’s bold adventure.

Until then, fiascos such as the Griffey episode, the retention of can’t miss Francoeur, the re-signing of sly Tom Glavin, the Furcal folly and others yet to come, will make being a Braves fan a laughing-stock of ineptitude.

By 74DAWG

February 20, 2009 12:24 AM | Link to this

WTF. Too many comments? Hey chop,are you going to get the new format? Anyway,Francour will handle right. Diaz and a reasonable platoon will handle left. The real issue is centerfield,,,not left. Hey coach, ….

By 20 out

February 20, 2009 2:33 AM | Link to this

The REAL issue is the whole darn outfield. Why is it that poor little Frenchy isn’t fighting for a job this year? This should be a shootout for playing time in all three positions. Frenchy did nothing last year that gives him a solid place in the lineup. Get a grip and get a real outfield.

By hop

February 20, 2009 6:30 AM | Link to this

I like most braves fans hopes that frenchy has a break-out year.

I agree he made the right decision to agree with the braves to avoid going to phoenix and fighting it out on his contract.

it would have be a huge mistake if he had done the latter.

he has make some mistakes in the past ,but all of us at one time were his age and we all made our share of mistakes as well.

the key is for him to learn from these mistakes and let the game come to him.

baseball can be a very frustrating game to play and it requires much patience to be succesful at it.

lets hope that frenchy is more mature now than he was last year and he allows the game to come to him.

By hop

February 20, 2009 6:31 AM | Link to this

I like most braves fans hopes that frenchy has a break-out year.

I agree he made the right decision to agree with the braves to avoid going to phoenix and fighting it out on his contract.

it would have be a huge mistake if he had done the latter.

he has make some mistakes in the past ,but all of us at one time were his age and we all made our share of mistakes as well.

the key is for him to learn from these mistakes and let the game come to him.

baseball can be a very frustrating game to play and it requires much patience to be succesful at it.

lets hope that frenchy is more mature now than he was last year and he allows the game to come to him.

By mike

February 20, 2009 7:18 AM | Link to this

You’re not fooling me Chop Chick! Dlo it’s Andy Pettitte, look at the picture.

By Herschworld

February 20, 2009 8:33 AM | Link to this

Chop chick you’re the Frechy of blogging…Maybe you should learn from your colleagues on how to not suck at writing..your persective on baseball is so primitive its pathetic…Maybe that’s why it’s called chop chick…Look, Jeff will be fine, what stincks is how fans and media adore him so highly when he’s doing okay and completly rip him when he has a bad season….Jeff needs to quit listing to grandma, Uncle Dan, and that drunk guy in the stands on what he should do…Jeff needs to do what he does best simply see the ball and hit it…

By North Georgia Wisdum

February 20, 2009 8:40 AM | Link to this

Hey, Chop Chik, was that you that got into a fight with Tim Hudson? He’s about youre size or smaller isn’t he? I hope you won. He should pik on a man.

Where was Frachy? If he is the right feilder I am a docter. I don’t thin he should not have to win the job, he should compeat for it. Hes really dumb.

By North Georgia Wisdum

February 20, 2009 8:50 AM | Link to this

I heard Hudson was stronger than the reportor so I guesss it was you. Hudson is only 150 pounds I thin. What will happen to team coverege now? Will you be banned from the clubhouse?

By Tami

February 20, 2009 9:44 AM | Link to this

Chipper learned a long time ago that home run hitting does not a complete hitter make. Chipper knows situational hitting, and can impart this knowledge to the “young whippersnapper” Francoeur. All Jeff needs to do now is mature (preferably, BEFORE the first 2009 preseason game) and start soaking all this knowledge in. Otherwise, I think Jeff’s gone in a trade before this season is over. This will be so the Braves could get SOMETHING for him.

I am of the disposition as of right NOW to believe Jeff when he says he’s changed, his swing is back and then some — largely due to what Chipper’s been saying about his swing. So, I think he’ll get it together and contribute to the club. He could — if he allows himself to be — the heir apparent to replacing Chipper as the “unofficial” leader/captain of the Braves when Chipper retires. He must take those steps necessary to get there, however. Otherwise, this season could be it with the Braves. The younger kids are chomping at the bit to take over. I don’t see management waiting on him too much longer.

By Arkansas Transplant

February 20, 2009 9:57 AM | Link to this

I’ll tell you what I think the Bravos should do, why not contact the O’s about Nick Markakis. He’s a young guy with a lot of talent. Hit’s for average, decent power and a big RBI guy. Probably wouldn’t come with a small price but I think we could come up with a package that would be fair. We could trade Jones, Blanco and a player to be named later. The O’s have multible issues to address, so throw the bodies that we don’t have room for at them. Add a pitcher like Morton to that package and it’s a done deal.

By North Georgia Wisdum

February 20, 2009 10:56 AM | Link to this

Fachy does not say Uh when he talks like Chipper does but Fachy says you know more that Caroline Kennedy. I think it is because Fachy is a dumb. How can he take over for Chipper as tean leader? I hope Fachy is traded to a American team and has to play in cold weather. I think somebody else can be right field and hit more.

By Arkansas Transplant

February 20, 2009 11:10 AM | Link to this

News update I just received some privy news about the fore mentioned Nick Markakis.

There has been some internal discussions between the O’s and Braves about the possibility of moving Nick with a package of young rookies. The O’s aren’t sure about persuing the possibilities of moving Nick. There are some in the front office that feel it’s best to do it now then wait and his value drop. Braves are prepare to head back to the table. I’d keep an eye on this one.

By DLo

February 20, 2009 12:08 PM | Link to this

huckleberry=Douche! You are the exact person I am talking about, probably never played a sport in your life or have a clue how talented these guys are! I don’t care that there is a so called industry of chumps like you that sit back and critique others for things you can only dream about being able to do. keep petting your lil calico as you sit on your couch probably weighing 400 pounds. maybe they can make the seats bigger at the ted so you can fit in them and critique while the action is live. Frenchy=break out season. huckleberry=dumb redneck. what a tool!

By stovey5k

February 20, 2009 12:29 PM | Link to this

What Bobby Cox needs to do is make Frenchy play every game for the first 2 weeks of spring training without allowing him to swing the bat once, And change his intro song to the Guns n Roses classic “Patience.” He needs to learn plate discipline. If he can learn some patience he will be a beast. I wish him the best the Braves need him. And some of yall that are tearing him down need to become Mets or Philly fans, because you are already tools.

By Time for real Change

February 20, 2009 12:39 PM | Link to this

I think Jeff will be fine. He worked with Chipper this offseason and unlike Andruw, Jeff seems to take instruction. I also dont think hes pig headed but think he is taking instruction from his Agent on contract negotiations. Isnt that what Jeff is paying his agent to do.

I believe that Francoeur will be fine and I think that he will also remain with the Braves. I dont think his wife will want to move her career into another state and his family and friends are all here. He was raised with good values and I think he will be one of our next francise players. Give the kid a break. Hes young and its still a learning curve.

By Jonathan

February 20, 2009 1:15 PM | Link to this

Wrens had some unfourtunate dealings. I don’t know if its the fact he can’t close deals, or he’s just had luck thats been that bad. Oh well, mabye its better off using internal solutions.

As for Frenchy, I hope he rebounds as well all would like him to. After all the work he’s put himself through to be better this year, along with the embarrassment he recieved via sucking out loud last season, he should learn his lesson and hit the way he should and can.

Glad Glavines back, this team is starting to look pretty good!

By Jonathan

February 20, 2009 1:15 PM | Link to this

Wrens had some unfourtunate dealings. I don’t know if its the fact he can’t close deals, or he’s just had luck thats been that bad. Oh well, mabye its better off using internal solutions.

As for Frenchy, I hope he rebounds as well all would like him to. After all the work he’s put himself through to be better this year, along with the embarrassment he recieved via sucking out loud last season, he should learn his lesson and hit the way he should and can.

Glad Glavines back, this team is starting to look pretty good!

By Ed Glennon

February 20, 2009 2:04 PM | Link to this

I don’t care for mediocre guys who want more money. He will make good trade bait because he will never sign as a free agent with the braves. I hope he listens to Chipper and Brian. No one, I mean no one, listens to TP. Can anyone think of any player he has helped in the last ten years?

By tommy

February 20, 2009 2:09 PM | Link to this

Jeff Francoeur needs only to look at another one time very talented player who refused help and refused to change his ways if he wants to stay in the big leagues. That other player just signed with Texas for a minor league deal. That being said I hope Jeff has a great year and so does Andrew.

By North Georgia Wisdum

February 20, 2009 3:47 PM | Link to this

I see Smolts thinks their is something wrong with the Braves. I do too. One thing is Frachy. He should not be here he should be in Missipi. Some say he is hard head I say hes dumb.

Chop Chik are you okay after that tusle with Huddys?

By Matt

February 20, 2009 4:06 PM | Link to this

Frency needs to step up and realize that he can be the next Chipper, in terms of leadership and unselfishness. If the Braves didn’t have chipper their is a good chance they would not of had so many consecutive playoff appearances. He is the heart and soul of this team and Frency needs to relize this, shut his mouth and listen. At this point Mccann is stepping up more and he wasn’t even supposed to.
Go Braves!

By Poorjeff

February 20, 2009 6:54 PM | Link to this

Frenchy will never be another Chipper..he is a damn joke. I can’t stand to even look at him hit. He is also a smart mouth show-off. I hope he falls on his face and gets traded.

By Brett

February 20, 2009 8:25 PM | Link to this

Frency needs to relax at the plate. He looks like he’s squeezing saw dust out of the bat. This is a big season for him because being really cool only gets you so far.

By Dee

February 20, 2009 9:06 PM | Link to this

North Georgia Wisdum is clearly a moron, I can’t even believe someone would waste their time attempting to be funny and failing that miserably.

Jeff had a bad season but he is still an outstanding baseball player and he’s smart, he’s going to have a fine year.. I can’t believe the hatred though.

By stynes

February 20, 2009 10:29 PM | Link to this

Good observation with this article, Chop Chick.

By richbrave

February 20, 2009 11:02 PM | Link to this

Everybody is conceding next year’s #1 pick to the BRAVES. Well maybe not THAT bad, but not much better than last year. I think the early part of the season and hitting will be the important keys to 2009. The pitching has to settle in. The revamped pitching rotation will have us in games late and late in the year. 2010 will be the breakthrough year like 1991 was to 1990. Its 1990 all over again. Come on youngin’s.

By Smooth

February 21, 2009 7:18 AM | Link to this

I see we should have either traded Frenchy or released him, he showed all of us what he thought of Atlanta with his contract moves. He does not deserve the money he is going to get. I use to like him and enjoyed watching him play, but now he showed what he thought of us. Let him go!

By SCRusty

February 21, 2009 12:21 PM | Link to this

“Hooked on Phonics” would be a nice gift to some on this blog.

By North Georgia Wisdum

February 21, 2009 5:13 PM | Link to this

SCRust, that’s a coincidence, they got me that at work and I am doing good. I like the way some words sound and it has helped my spelling and sentenses. I wonder if Frachy had tried it?

Dee, I have opininons just like you only I don’t talk about other blogers like you due. I blog just like you only I had something to say and you call me names. Maybe Frachy is a dumb and you dont admit him.

I

By Behind Enemy Lines

February 21, 2009 5:18 PM | Link to this

Francoeur = spoiled brat

It’s just a pity the Braves didn’t package him up and make him another team’s problem when he still had good value instead of hanging on while he imploded.

And now with the overmatched Wren at the controls the odds of making a solid deal seem slimmer than they have in years.

100 losses seems like a very real possibility at this point.

By Mizzou Guru

February 21, 2009 6:25 PM | Link to this

I don’t agree about the “Braves’ Way.” This is a business. If the players allowed it, the Braves way would be to pay the MLB minimum like every other club would. I think Jeff is just making a point from a negotation standpoint for down the road. I see nothing at all wrong with that.

By santa3247

February 21, 2009 9:03 PM | Link to this

Hi, I’m Seong Ho,Yoon living in jinhae city southkorea now.

Jeff Francoeur have some problem?

Jeff Francoeur and Brandon Jones failed last year for the too much weight training. Fire weight trainer. ^*^

And this year Fren Wren want to play at the lefty reliever himself? ^^ Batting ball pitcher only exist. ^^

Boone Logan? Look at his latest 10game record in CWS. You must know why CWS gave up him. ^*^

Eric O’Flaherty? his ERA over 20.00 ^*^

Jeff Ridgway? he gave homerun once in three inning. In 60innings, he will give over 20HR. His Tampabay record is ERA 189.00. ^*^

Joseph Reyes neutron pithcer? ^^ His ERA over 6.2 in 50innings, and ERA 5.8 in 110innings, and if he would pitch at starter again, his record would be ERA 5.5 in 200innings and 5W-20L. ^^

Call back Dan Smith, he was the franchise star Ace of AA Misisipi Braves, originally pitcher need to be born the potentiality to pitch great. ^*^

May the force of Messiah be with you

P.S: Enormous sized comet as jupiter is coming now. ^*^

By MARK

February 22, 2009 5:55 AM | Link to this

REally its good some things didnt work out we didnt need Furcal..AJ is no better than Derek, and Griffet is old and beat up..Peavy wanted to stay in San diego…so there..I agree though please no Blanco the whole year..no power…

By Random

February 22, 2009 8:52 AM | Link to this

CoughChik: “Considering how fragile his ego appears to be, … “

Please elucidate — just how fragile does Francoeur’s ego appear to you to be.

And please don’t be bashful about providing actual examples to supplant your fantasies.

By richbrave

February 22, 2009 8:59 AM | Link to this

RANDOM:

Yeah, you go dog.

By Random

February 22, 2009 10:12 AM | Link to this

Poorjeff, Behind Enemy Lines, Smooth, North Georgia Wisdum, richbrave, geekboy, huckleberry:

So many player haters, so thinly disguised as “fans”.

Thanks, Maria, for standing up to them.

*McRly?: (February 19, 2009 4:26 PM): *”[Brandon Jones]’s that left handed bat we might be looking for against right handed pitching anyway”

Sorry, bud, the Braves are looking for someone who can kill LHPs. Remember? The Braves have already got Chipper, Kelly, McCann, Kotchman, the half dozen LH OF contestants to handle RHPs, but based on last year, they’re not so sure they can rely on Francoeur and Diaz to aid Escobar against LHPs. LHPs simply killed the Braves last year.

PS: Palin — very funny!!!

By North Georgia Wisdum

February 22, 2009 3:31 PM | Link to this

I am not a hater. Everybody calls names on this blog. Frachy is a dumb. That’s all I said about him and some people call me the haters. I dont hate Frachy I just dont like him either. If left field is open and center field is open why is Frachy not competor for right field? He had bad stats last year and only Bobby is the reason he played all the time. Frachy is making alot of money to be a dumb.

By richbrave

February 22, 2009 4:50 PM | Link to this

MARIA-RANDOM:

Match made in heaven.

By Hal

February 22, 2009 5:54 PM | Link to this

Frenchie not only failed to hit last season, but his error rate was high, and he forgot how to throw the ball back into the infield or especially to home plate. Don’t we hope for improvements in all departments for the 09 season.

By Random

February 23, 2009 4:09 AM | Link to this

North Georgia Wisdum—

Perhaps I misread.

Perhaps you can clarify how the following remarks are not hateful:

“Plus, [Francoeur] is stupid and childis behavior… . Hes just dumb… . Hes a dumb… . Just like Frachy hes dumb. … Hes really dumb.”

“I think it is because Fachy is a dumb… . I hope Fachy is traded to a American team and has to play in cold weather.”

“Some say [Francoeur] is hard head I say hes dumb.”

“I just dont like [Francoeur]”

By Random

February 23, 2009 4:33 AM | Link to this

North Georgia Wisdum: “Everybody calls names on this blog. Frachy is a dumb.”

Ironic much?

By richbrave

February 23, 2009 8:18 AM | Link to this

Hey RANDOM. I’m calling you out Henceforth, you shall be forver branded as RANDOM. Go forth and sin no more.

By Dan

February 23, 2009 4:15 PM | Link to this

I think Frenchy needs to be shipped to KC, Seattle, or some other forgotten place. He whined when sent to the minors to help him, left runners on, and complained when the Cubs shut him down, calling Lily a ‘cheap shot artist.’ Just classless. I really think Atlanta is overpaying for him by oh say 3.375 mil.

By North Georgia Wisdum

February 23, 2009 9:12 PM | Link to this

Random, I think your shorts are to tight and its making you grumpy. If you dont like me then I am going to try to be more like you. Here’s what I meen: Hey Chop Chik, Perhaps you can esplain how Random posts here so much and says nothing but picking on other bloggers smartar than him. Tooshay.

By santa3247

February 24, 2009 8:56 PM | Link to this

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

No.1 spot in batting order is important. Because No.1 hitter’s .avg .obp can make influence to No.2,3,4,5.

Why? if you would have experience at pitcher, you can find easily. Pitcher’s ability to pitch is different to the wind-up position and set position. Do you understand?

The greatest pitcher in Brave’s history John Smoltz and Tom Glavine have defect at set positon a little. Young pitcher have big problem at this set positon pitching form.

Difficult? pitcher have to pitch in short time and movement when runners are on base but for full based time.

So, hitter can hit well when runner is on base, because the pitched ball’s contron would be inperfect. You got it?

Therefore, Boby Cox must know it well, but he used Gregor Blanco at No.1 Spot. Low .avg low obp. After all, Chipper Jones’s .slg dropped down. And Chipper the great’s batting title is a miraculous one.

John Smoltz went to Boston, for he knew well about Cox’s status and Babylon can block his record I think.

May the force of Messiah be with you.

P.S: David’s 12tribes over the world please. In North & South korea, Babylonian exist. But they can study foreign language by good method but they disturbed the good of korea, that is, yamato tribe for studying forein language.

Do you know north korean who can speak well of average 4 or 5 language? ^*^ They study foreign language together with neutron machine, so they can get paramount result.

In this, but Babylonian implantor you have to be alert. Specially Iran you have to use white people for your english teacher, Babylonian can intrude Iran for this english teacher.

Constant Vigilance Iran have to get.

By JohnnyTide

February 24, 2009 9:27 PM | Link to this

I just don’t wish this bum any luck. He has a pitiful season and instead of showing a little remorse, crys for more money. He’s a first class bum!

By Runnin

March 5, 2009 5:41 AM | Link to this

Learned his lesson? Evidently not.

By ann

March 5, 2009 10:28 AM | Link to this

Frenchy will be ok. Talking heads hae yet to win a game.

By AK Braves Fan

March 8, 2009 7:28 PM | Link to this

Back when he still was coaching, Viince Dooley said something about sports on his Sunday night recap show with Larry Munson that has stuck with me. One caller had criticized the Dogs, who had played poorly in a win on Saturday, to a fare-thee-well, and the next caller came to their defense, saying the previous caller was nuts, or some such. Vince said something like this: It’s true that many fans don’t know which way the left guard is supposed to step at the snap on a given play, but the guy in the stands can tell whether the team is trying hard to win.

My concern with Francoeur isn’t very technical; I just believe that even from a distance one can see he has snakes in his head. I wish him the best and the Braves really need him, but until he clears the cobwebs I fear he won’t reach the levels of which he is capable.