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Home > Jeff Schultz > Archives > 2008 > December > 30 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USTuesday Countdown: Cowboys, Cards & Kate Walsh (hubba hubba!)
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
10: No Terrell Owens. No Brett Favre. No DeAngelo Hall, Jeremy Shockey, Pacman Jones or Chad Zippo-Dumbo. When is the last time the NFL playoffs kicked off on such a pure note?
9: The funniest thing about the Dallas Cowboys’ collapse — and there’s a long list — is the day-after proclamations by coach Wade Phillips that he is going to be a tougher guy with the players next season. Look, Wade Phillips is a pretty good defensive coordinator. Nice guy. Solid guy. But he is not George Patton. He’s not even Will Patton. He doesn’t get into players’ faces and he’s certainly not going to strike fear into anybody, like, say, Bill Parcells or Jimmy Johnson. Fact is, with Jerry Jones having such a high-profile position with the team, it’s going to be difficult for any coach to establish some semblance of authority.
8: Classy bunch in Dallas. The day after the final game, few players made themselves available to speak to the media. One of those who did speak: former Tech running back Tashard Choice, who emerged down the stretch while the stars around him went up in flames. So there’s one guy to build around.
7: Time out for baseball: Just saw where the Mets are talking to the Dodgers about Andruw Jones (who would play in right field in New York). L.A. apparently is willing to pick up a big chunk — if not most of — next season’s $15 million salary just to get rid of him. Question: Would this be such a bad thing for the Braves to look into?
6: I don’t know what Frank Wren has planned — and given the way this winter has gone, it may not really matter what he has planned. But right now the Braves starting outfield reads (left to right): Matt Diaz, Josh Anderson, Jeff Francoeur. Jones can still play defense and I have to think three home runs and 14 RBI last year is an aberration. What are your other options?
5: Also just saw where Kate Walsh is suddenly available on the open market. Forget Andruw.
4: The Arizona Cardinals had the lowest net points differential of 12 playoff teams: plus-one. They were the third-highest scoring team at 427 points but allowed 426. Only four teams — Detroit, St. Louis, Denver and Kansas City — allowed more. And they finished a combined 12-52.
3: When the Cardinals go down, they go down like Pompeii. Their four biggest flops this season came to the New York Jets (56 points allowed), Giants (37), Philadelphia (48) and New England (47). I know there’s all this conjecture about Matt Ryan being injured or tired, given the way he finished the season. But this would be a good time for a painkiller and a shot of B-12. In those four games, Brett Favre, Eli Manning, Donovan McNabb and Matt Cassel threw for a combined 15 touchdowns — and Arizona had 15 turnovers.
2: How good have the Hawks been so far this season? At 20-10, they need go only 17-35 the rest of the way to equal last year’s record.
1: NFL playoff oddity: The four road teams are all favored. Three will win: Falcons, Colts and Eagles. The exception: Dolphins over Ravens.
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Comments
By jeanE
December 30, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this
Jeff, you are hilarious as usual! I don’t know about Andruw, I think his best days are far in the rearview mirror! I am worried about jeffy, though, I don’t see a big rebound from that spectactularly bad season…Still, Andruw might be so happy to be back here that he’ll finally lose that extra weight & listen to TP!! And I have a bridge to sell you if you believe that! Dolphins over Ravens? We’ll see, that should be a a good one! Go Birds!!
By Frank
December 30, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this
Andruw Jones in a Braves uni again might not be a half baked idea. He could use some time on the bench as a pinch hitter and late inning defensive relief. He is still young, and a year of rest wouldn’t hurt. Sign him on the cheap, and let him rejuvenate himself by being a bench leader for a year, then stick him back in left or right field everyday and watch the youngsters around him blossom. Might even consider him for 1st or 3rd base if he will take instruction. He can still hit 20-25 HR’s every year if he just rested that back. Just stop diving for every ball!
As for the Falcons - if they beat the Cardinals, it will be because they won the offensive shootout duel. Falcons’ defense has floundered lately, allowing 450 yards against the Rams … c’mon. Pass defense is our weakness, and Warner will take full advantage. Just hope they have those B-12 shots for Ryan before and during the game ready…
By cb
December 30, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this
Falcons will win with a simple gameplan: BALL CONTROL. The Falcons can run while recently the Cardinals have shown that they can’t stop the run—or pass for that matter. At any rate I expect a solid performance in all three phases of the game this week from the Falcons. Can’t express enough about the satisfaction that comes with knowing your team will give a max effort every week like true PROFESSIONALS. Congrats to Ryan on his rookie of the year award. I would like to thank the Falcons’ Organization once again for this year’s product—proving the viability of the process. IT’S JUST BEGINNING! GO FALCONS!!!
By Darren
December 30, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this
That would be a great move if they can trade for him and have LA pick up most of the salary. He feels more comfortable here. It would be a great move!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Lee In S GA
December 30, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this
With the current lack of power in the outfield even Willie Harris would be welcome back in a Braves uniform and would have lead the oufielders in hrs last season. So if LA takes a big chunk of Jones salary I don’t mind the Braves taking another chance with him.
GO FALCONS!
By Josh H
December 30, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this
No Andruw Jones. He’s had two years worth of aberrations now.
By the daddy
December 30, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this
If LA is willing to pick up $15 mil. of AJ’s salary than we should snag him quick. Also, the Cowboys don’t realize what a steal they got in the 4th round with T. Choice. He is a gamer!
By DHD
December 30, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this
I don’t care about the Cowboys. I’m sick of all the press you guys give them. I think you have a man crush on TO and Romo.
By Jim H.
December 30, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this
I’ve long thought that Andruw coming back to Atlanta (if the Dodgers would pick up a LARGE chunk of his salary) would be a good thing to look into. I think he would make a comeback being back under Bobby Cox and in friendly surroundings. Now that doesn’t mean he isn’t in decline and his best days are probably behind him — but I think he could still be productive for a couple of years (especially if he would get back into shape). And at this point what are our other options, really? The Braves are not going to pay what it would take to get Manny (neither in dollars, length of contract, or headaches), and the other options such as Dunn, Burrell, Abreu, etc. are not all that appealing. I say get him cheap and save the extra $$$ for pitching and extending the contracts of the productive players (like Mike Gonzolez). Of course, if Frenchy doesn’t make a comeback and if at least one of our young centerfield options doesn’t work out we are screwed anyway.
By leland
December 30, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this
Mr. JS—sometime funny, sometime not funny. This time not funny. Your pal, Leland
By bravesfanbob
December 30, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this
Let me first say that two years ago, I thought Andruw would be a Hall of Famer. But the last 2 years did away with that. I don’t think he’ll be any better than last year in New York, (he’ll be booed out of the city), but he wouldn’t be much better here. I believe he’s basically done. (Did anyone see his stats in winter ball, 16 AB, .188 AVE, 8 strikeouts, 3 singles.) I wish him the best, but the only way we take him, is if the ENTIRE contract is paid by L.A. I hope for his sake, I’m wrong.
By TrueFan
December 30, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this
Mr. J.S., What’s so funny about the collapse of the Dallas Cowboys? I would think it’s funnier that the Falcons again will not win the Super Bowl, but the media and fans will consider the season a success for the mere fact that they made it to the playoffs. Win a few, even 1 Super Bowl, then you may laugh at others. I love how most of you in the media, especially the AJC, can’t get past the playoff game’s back in 1978 or especially 1981. Let it go, you lost, some may say you choked but you still lost. Get some closure or even some therapy, but if the only way you can sell your paper is continue to print about the Cowboys, so be it. Remember, America’s Team, 5 time Super Bowl Champions.
By matt r
December 30, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this
Not too much of a surprise to see the road teams favored… the 5 and 6 seeds are generally the 2nd best teams from the better divisions while the 3 and 4 seeds are the best teams in the worse divisions.
By proeye
December 30, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this
Wow, at what point do we say we are into desperation? Andruw Jones batted .222 for the Braves in his last year and .158 for the Dodgers last year. Is this acceptable at any price even if he was free?
What makes anyone think that an unmotivated person can suddenly turn it around just because he is “coming home”?
Just blow off 2009 as a losing year. The Braves will eventually come back strong but next year won’t be it. Don’t get desperate. It is just not that important to worry about bringing guys we don’t need.
By Bobbymahlon
December 30, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this
The Braves are nuts if they trade for Andruw. Do we want to pick up somebody that nobody else wants. Lets go with some young guns who will at least hustle something that Andruw knows nothing about. The same goes for Glavine he is no good anymore lets bring up guys like Morton and Hanson and give them a chance. The Braves it seems always want to get somebody who has experience but are over the hill and cost us a lot more money than bringing up some of our top prospects.
By Najeh Davenpoop
December 30, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this
In one item you mention point differential when talking about the Cardinals, and then in another you pick the Dolphins — who outscored their opponents by a measly 28 points this season — over a hot Ravens team with a solid rookie QB, good power running game, and a defense that is not gonna get fooled by the Wildcat formation. Something’s not adding up here.
By NRBQ
December 30, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this
Andruw is a 32-year-old player in a 42-year-old’s body. Don’t go there.
And don’t look now, but only three teams in the entire LEAGUE have better records than the Hawks.
By Blackberry Cobbler
December 30, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this
Sure. The Braves are full of dumb@$$ moves over the past few years. So, let’s go ahead and bring Andruw “Doughnut Boy, Large Fries with that” Jones back.
When are the Braves ever going to get serious about building a winning team again?
The 2009 team looks like it will be worse than the 2008 team………… and that’s really saying something right there.
By Jerry
December 30, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this
Have Andruw come back. Stupid. Bring the young kids up.
Penny signed one year $5 million. Why would we not offer that. Sign Ben Sheets and lets go with the young ones after that. Why would you not take a chance on Sheets. Look at the gamble Wren was taking with Burnett. I mean geeza louisea.
Sign Smoltz too. Come on Wren. 2 Easy things. sign Sheets, sign Smoltz and bring up the kids.
By jed
December 30, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this
it does beg the question though: what in heavens name happened to andruw jones? what has caused him to be so awful so suddenly? i havent heard an adequate explanation yet.
By jed
December 30, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this
it does beg the question though: what in heavens name happened to andruw jones? what has caused him to be so awful so suddenly? i havent heard an adequate explanation yet.
By Coach (Skip and Pete will be missed)
December 30, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this
The Falcons rookie QB + rookie head coach + road game against Curt Warner and the Cardinals at home = LOSS. The Atlanta Falcons had a good season, unfortunately, it is about to end.
I wouldn’t hire Andruw Jones to be the bat boy. Enough said.
The Braves, desperate? NO. Rebuilding? NO. spinning their wheels? MOST DEFINITELY. Why? Look no further than the front office and the embarrassing job that has been done in recent years, not to mention this horrible off season that we have witnessed with mouth’s agape.
By Najeh Davenpoop
December 30, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this
I like Andruw Jones. I think he still has some good years ahead of him. But I am sick and tired of the Braves continuing to rely on the same players who brought them success in the ’90s. The ’90s are over. The 14 year division winning streak is over. Smoltz, Glavine, Chipper, Andruw, even Furcal etc. simply cannot be the guys to carry your team in 2009. The Braves right now are nowhere near being a legitimate contender. Instead of bringing in veterans to plug holes and trying to bring back retreads like Furcal and Andruw, why not blow up the entire roster and start over like the Marlins did in ‘98? Build the team around a completely new core of young players who can be here for a long time. I’d rather see the Braves struggle for a couple of years and become the new Devil Rays in 2011, with an exciting core of young talent going deep in the postseason, than see another 75 to 80 win veteran-laden injury-prone team in 2009 trying to delude us into thinking they are true contenders.
By duce
December 30, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this
To TrueFan:
What’s funny is that the Cowboys have the talent to run away with the title and they are to stupid to relinquish their ego’s to do so. Jerry Jones is an idiot with money. What’s next? Will he go out and sign Lawrence Phillips at RB for next year on a work release program??? If the Giants win the Superbowl, does that mean that 31 other teams had unsuccessful years? Tell that to the Falcons and Dolphins. No playoff wins in 12 years = America’s team?? That’s up for a re-write. Besides there is one America’s team and they wear tomahawks on their chest.
By Train Wreck Bystander
December 30, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this
If we can get the same deal that the Mets are being offered in an AJ trade, I say add $1 and take it. After the Furcal Fiasco, the Braves are due some karmic recompense.
By Dave In Tampa
December 30, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this
Come on Jeff. If you are going to tease me by putting Kate Walsh in your headline, at least give us a picture of her. She is HOT!
By GTO
December 30, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this
I would leave my wife and family in a heartbeat for Kate Walsh. Talk about a fine 41.
By Hello world
December 30, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this
Hello!!!!Dont you people realize how long it took to dump the bumb Andruw Jones. Do not pay him again to dive at balls in the dirt, sail the bat at balls over his head, and stand and stare at the strikes right down the middle. I cant watch that joke again.
Andruw = NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
By jsmooth
December 30, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this
the only way that the cowboys are going to be able to win a playoff game or even get to the playoffs is if they put a muzzle on T.O. and make sure that the team concept is engrained into the minds of their players like a brand onto the hide of a cow.
The parts are not more important than the whole. The whole is. If they are not working together for the good of the team then the whole team concept just doesn’t work. That is what has happened this year. That is what will continue to happen. They have all the components, gelling is required. And until I before we is replaced with the opposite, there won’t be a playoff win or berth for that matter.
By stupup74
December 30, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this
Agree fully with KW and AJ, both are worth a look.
By BravesFan79
December 30, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this
How can ANYONE even put Farve in the same sentence as TO , Pacman, MeAngelo, Vick, ect… ??
Farve has more HEART and Smarts than all the others combined!
What Green Bay did to Farve was just wrong and they got what they deserve by having a bad season.
.. Farve might feel old and tired in the offseason, and i think his behavior would be pretty normal for most people that were set for life financially yet still had love for the game.
However theres NO WAY you could call the mental problems of PacMan or TO normal…….
During the season… Farve is a TRUE LEADER!
Its a shame his shoulder has been hurting these last 4 or 5 weeks. Hopefully Farve will be back in 2009… Go Falcons and Go Jets!!
By fordcobra
December 30, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this
You Can’t go back. Anyway looks like the Mets are going to get him if the Dodgers will eat some of that big salary.
GO FALCONS!
By fordcobra
December 30, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this
You Can’t go back. Anyway looks like the Mets are going to get him if the Dodgers will eat some of that big salary.
GO FALCONS!
By fordcobra
December 30, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this
You Can’t go back. Anyway looks like the Mets are going to get him if the Dodgers will eat some of that big salary.
GO FALCONS!
By BravesFan79
December 30, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this
TrueFan: “Mr. J.S., What’s so funny about the collapse of the Dallas Cowboys?”
Its the fact that the Cowboys picked up EVERY dumb getto rat they could find….. and KARMA kicked them in the azzz!!!
HAHA…………….. And you would of thought by watching NFL films they were ready to win the super bowl…. haha… Now THATS funny!
At least they have 3 players with class in Jason Whitten, Romo, and T Choice.
and i cant believe so many teams passed on Choice… i knew he was good years ago with GT
By Larry Adelberg
December 30, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this
AJ back in Atlanta, only if the price were right - meaning nearly free. he may bounce back from two terrible seasons, or he may be done.
You need to read the interview with Andruw while in winter ball. his comment . “I started listening to too many opinions regarding my batting stance, my approach, my hands, pretty much everything. ” Does not sound like someone who is readily coachable yet. Maybe he needs another year of complete failure and embarrassment to realize he does not hold all the answers.
By Eric from MO
December 30, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this
Andruw??? Everybody has to be joking right? Frank in his 1:56 post says use him as a pinch hitter, there is one problem with that. He cant hit! He has batted .200 the past 2 seasons and continues to fall down striking out. I can strike out and fall down. One season could be a fluke but not 2. With him and Francouer both in the lineup we would have no chance at being successful. As for defensive replacement, one or two innings of defense a game is not worth a prospect and someone else’s bat who can actually bat above .200. Also dont know if anyone remembers or not but last year with the dodgers before he quit for the season he couldnt even play defense.
By Frank
December 30, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this
Kate Walsh is hot but even her can’t put a thing over Shania Twain!!!!!!!
Bad thing is, Shania is supposedly dating the ex-husband of the woman Shania’s husband cheated on her with.
By Najeh Davenpoop
December 30, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this
“Farve has more HEART and Smarts than all the others combined! “
Are you serious? Did you even watch the Jets this year? Favre’s regular idiotic decisions are THE reason they didn’t make the postseason. Believe me, I had to suffer through his stupidity this year since he was on my fantasy team. Favre got away with throwing into double and triple coverage his whole career because he had such a great arm that he could thread the needle. At age 38 he no longer has the arm to make those throws, and the ducks he throws into double and triple coverage get picked off regularly. Great leader? Yeah, he leads them to losses in games they could have won with even an average quarterback.
The Jets would have made the playoffs if they had kept Pennington. There are 20-25 starting QBs in the NFL better than Favre, including Matt Ryan and Joe Flacco. Straight up.
By O'brien
December 30, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this
It is reported that the Dodgers are reaching out to Adam Dunn’s agent, and so far, it has been widely assumed that Manny would return to the Dodgers. If they sign Dunn (or another outfielder) instead, I think Manny can be had for much cheaper than he wanted. And with his market drying up, I think Manny will be motivated to put up numbers and prove people wrong. Plus he will be playing for another contract.
DOB reported that the Braves dont want to block their up and coming outfielders. With that in mind, I think a 2 year deal (with a team option for a 3rd) would be enough for Manny. Yes, Manny is Manny, and he’s not the type of players the Braves usually go for, but I think short term, he would be okay.
Jeff, assuming Andruw is not on the Braves radar, who do you like for left field?
By Amber
December 30, 2008 5:45 PM | Link to this
Andruw?? A Brave again? I’d rather sign Manny. (and for the record, I’d actually rather not have Manny)
By oldbrave
December 30, 2008 6:22 PM | Link to this
Amber, that sums it up very well. I do not believe either option is being considered by the Braves. No body but the Mets could be that dumb.
By kevinl
December 30, 2008 6:30 PM | Link to this
who will be the braves broadcasters next year? what is frank wren doing with the money?
By Lew
December 30, 2008 6:48 PM | Link to this
kevinl-I don’t know-maybe he spent it on his Colorado vacation and new skis. Maybe he put it in the bank and is going to keep the interest. Maybe he invested with the Ponzi scheme Dude and lost it, or maybe he went to the Mikosukee Casino and lost it there. Maybe he donated it to Bobby Cox;s Animal shelter charity? What do you think?
By Eric from MO
December 30, 2008 7:26 PM | Link to this
Amber,”I’d actually rather not have Manny.”
Yeah who wants a guy has made three teams win. Who wants a born winner? (note sarcasm)
By Eric from MO
December 30, 2008 7:27 PM | Link to this
Amber,”I’d actually rather not have Manny.”
Yeah who wants a guy has made three teams win. Who wants a born winner? (note sarcasm)
By Eric from MO
December 30, 2008 7:28 PM | Link to this
Amber,”I’d actually rather not have Manny.”
Yeah who wants a guy has made three teams win. Who wants a born winner? (note sarcasm)
By BravesFan79
December 30, 2008 8:07 PM | Link to this
Nejah: Farve actually had a pretty good first 12 games or so until his arm started hurting. If you cant call Farve a “leader” then how come with Farve in 2007 the Packers were a top team and in 2008 under Rodgers…they fell apart? and sure injuries played a part, but they were also hit by injuries last year as well
The guy the Braves should go after to platoon with Diaz against lefties is Sammy Sosa. The guy can still give you 25+ HR’s a year, and he hit over .300 against lefties!
Plus u cant get much better pop off the bench than one of the best HR hitters of all time.
By viva castro
December 30, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this
Schultz, dammit, if “getting into player’s faces” meant anything in football, then ten or twelve teams would win the superbowl every year. You have enough credits to date one of the falcon cheerleaders, Schultz, and I suggest you spend those credits.
Camera to my face in close up, not mugging.
Y-y-yeah, Amber, n-n-note the s-s-sarcasm, and then maybe you can stop faking your or-or-orgasm. ‘
Y do women fake orgasms? It’s like having sex with milli vanilli.
The Thongs of the Wrongs. (coming to ABC in January, a new series about women who fake orgasm to get what they want.)
Yes, the Thongs of the Wrongs. Women who use sex as a toy, as a nom de plume, as an alias.
Lip synched moans of pleasure designed to inform the f******-challenged fellows of flacidity that they rock worlds.
Meet Ginger Vitus, a girl who was molested by a mime at the age of 17, and who dealt with the trauma by faking all her orgasms.
Meet Venus of Peoria, a girl who …..U know what? U morons dont deserve the rest of this bit…and it’s great!
Happy new year…..see you in 2009
By BravesFan79
December 30, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this
Eric: anyone that resorts to pushing old men down stairs because the big baby didnt get his way… is a born LOSER… not a born winner!
And we saw how far Manny could take a team when the Dodgers got destroyed in the playoffs. The Red Sox championships are due ALOT more to brillant pitching by Shilling, Becket, etc… than “manny being manny”
By keylargo
December 30, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this
I went back and looked at the Atlanta Braves roster in 1996. Andrew Jones was listed at 170 pounds.
Last year in LA, Jones’ weight hit 256 pounds.
Let him waddle off into the sunset somewhere else.
By Mr. Boldin
December 30, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this
Falcons are going down
By wildbird
December 30, 2008 10:06 PM | Link to this
very old and tried Charlie Liebrandt Akid in center Gant A kid In Right n old man in Left L Smith Old and Slow Bream at 1st Lemeke mr not hit at second Billard ar ss Tp at 3 and evrybody who we could pick up at cather. How soon we forget go BRAVES (love) my BRAVES
By ste
December 30, 2008 10:12 PM | Link to this
Go for it. Andruw’s the greatest player we ever had. Sign him for five years and watch complete his Hall of Fame career. He only had 1 bad year with the Braves and his power stats (26hrs/94rbis) topped any Braves’ in 2008. Get him 550 ABs and he will hit 30 hrs and drive in 100. Don’t cheat him out of his 500 hrs (he has 371at age 32). No one is in the same league defensively.
By n. GA. BOB
December 30, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this
I’m sure jelly belly could get a job at the Atlanta Airport but PLEASE stay away from the Braves!
By wildbird
December 30, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this
sign him to incentive contract and put him in left field, less wear and tear on his body. Remember an Outfielder named Larry Hisile [EX SPELLING] was said to be washed up by Phillies at 31 after 3 bad years> came back next year and lead american league in RBIs With Milwaukee I beleieve and he countined to play very well for the next 5 years.
By stew
December 30, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this
He is the greatest player we ever had. Can Beltran think he can hit 51hrs next year? He’s never done it. Can Andruw? He has done it . It is a possibility. Andruw’s a slugger. He hits in streaks. He needs to bat cleanup. He’s gonna strikeout. A slugger needs to swing for the fences. He doesn’t need to hit .300. Run production is much more important than hitting for average. Home runs win games. Punch and Judy hitters don’t win. Bring back the glory of Andruw. Sign him for five years.
By stew
December 30, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this
The power of Christ compels you. Bring back Andruw.
By stew
December 30, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this
Braves fans unite! Bring Andruw back. Sign him for five years. He’d be a bargain.
By wildbird
December 30, 2008 10:40 PM | Link to this
Stew you ever hear of Henry Aaron, Eddie Mathews, Dale Murphy Chipper Jones, Fred Mcgriff, David Justice
By jch
December 30, 2008 10:47 PM | Link to this
Other then the Andruw speculation, is there any word Wren & Co. are doing anything?
Correct me if I’m wrong but other than re-signing Norton and trying to reform a telecom exec into a nuckleballer (Niekro) there hasn’t been any news of the Braves doing anything since Furcal peed on their parade.
Any chance Wren wasn’t ready for the job? So far he sure hasn’t proven to be Schuerholz’s equal…
His stated off-season goals were a solid, proven #1 or 2 pitcher and a run-producing outfielder.
I hope he doesn’t count Neikro and Norton as filling these roles!
As for signing AJ - please don’t.
By wildbird
December 30, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this
Not mention Bob Horner, Rico Carty, Orlando Cepeda,Joe Torre, Darrell Evans Greatest ever covers lot of ground and even serval Hall Of Fame Players
By wildbird
December 30, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this
Whats wrong Stew you dont want to play with me. Ralph Garr, Felepie Alou. I havent even started with thwe pitchers yet
By wildbird
December 30, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this
Brave Fans [which I am a life long brave fan) shouldnt cry about freeagents and them get bought by the highest bidder. We the Braaves Started in all with Andy Messersmidth remember guys lol
By stew
December 30, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this
Wildbird Can any of the above field anywhere near what we’ve seen out of Andruw? Andruw with a normal year last year would be in Chips ballpark home run wise/Crime dog had a very short Brave career/Murph is not near the CF and Andruw passes him shortly in hrs/Does DJ have Aj’s stats? Is he comparable defensively?/Eddie and Hammer put up great offensive stats but were they anywhere near Andruw defensively. Ladies and gentlemen, Braves just signed Andruw.
By wildbird
December 30, 2008 11:03 PM | Link to this
am I the only person on here or just the only that knows the Atlanta Brave History
By wildbird
December 30, 2008 11:15 PM | Link to this
Aaron even in his 30 s was considerd one of the two best RF in the Game Hit for Average power and stole a lot of bases until he was around 33 Hit around 310 for career was consider as the greastest clutc h hitter of all time more Rbis per ab than anyone to ever play the game I like AJ though he was awesome player for us buit get real my friend Arron not just Braves greatest but in top five of any player ever to wear a jock strap
By stew
December 30, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this
Horner and Carty are my 2 favorite Brave players. Baby Bull, Chicken Catcher Torre, Darrell all these players should ever be mentioned in the same breath as Andruw. None of these players come close statistically. Don’t forget about his defense.
By wildbird
December 30, 2008 11:25 PM | Link to this
oh stew lol I bet you never saw Aaron play, I have seen them both Aaron had no weakness, no where could picther have a easy out with him. He played hard all the time and played to win, never took a play off as Aj has done from time to time> worked at staying in shape Aaron 180 lbs rookie 188 lbs when he retired
By wildbird
December 30, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this
how old are you stew Aaron great defense too>lay in person
By wildbird
December 30, 2008 11:32 PM | Link to this
did you ever see Aaron play in person . Look up cepeda career you maybe surprised Rookie of year 2 time mvp great average great power gold glove 1b
By wildbird
December 30, 2008 11:40 PM | Link to this
Mays, Aaron, Mantle, Bonds., Griffey Jr, Clemente Rice the best I ever saw play and I am 60 havent missed brave game excectp 12 since they moved to Atlanta either in person on tv when on or the radio
By wildbird
December 30, 2008 11:44 PM | Link to this
sorry I scared you off stew maybe past your bed time if so good night my friend GOOOOOOOOOO BRAVES
By Mr_unperfect
December 31, 2008 12:01 AM | Link to this
Heard the Mets are interested too… Must say going to them would be the best thing Andruw has done for the braves in years.
By stew
December 31, 2008 12:12 AM | Link to this
I was a Yankee fan until 1957 when I jumped on the bandwagon was disappointed in 1958. My friend, no one including Willie (who I thought was the greatest CFer ever before AJ - so you know I’m not full of crap) got to more balls than AJ. It’s hard to argue with the offensive stats of Baroid/Hammer/Jr/Mickster but they couldn’t go get the ball better than AJ. Clemente? (Punch and Judy) Rice? too slow Felipe Alou/Ralph Garr Are u crazy? Hammer used to nonchalant every ball that was hit to him. I was a big hammer fan growing up - offensively yeah but defensively no way! Gotta go to bed.
By Najeh Davenpoop
December 31, 2008 12:25 AM | Link to this
“If you cant call Farve a “leader” then how come with Farve in 2007 the Packers were a top team and in 2008 under Rodgers…they fell apart?”
Neither Favre nor Rodgers play defense. The Packers had a great defense last year and a horrible one this year. Aaron Rodgers had a damn good season.
By Boo Boo
December 31, 2008 2:06 AM | Link to this
Stew & Wildbird,
Aaron played with Carty, Torre, and later Darrell Evans. General Admission was in the left field area back then, so it was easy to see Carty. Aaron was just a dot, way over in right field (seeming even smaller in front of that giant mechanical Indian). Forget signing Andruw. Even if it was a good idea (it is not), Wren can’t pull the trigger on anything. The ownership has no money to buy free agents (which is good in a way). Atlanta is a small market team again. No more Ginsu knives to make the Braves be sold as “America’s Team”. If he had a Brett Butler on the team, Wren would trade him to the Indians again, for another washed up starter. The Braves are Milwaukee-Cincinnatti South.Here’s an idea … resign Phil Niekro. He could still float that eephus pitch up there, even if the knuckler won’t reach the plate anymore. Start him between Smoltz and Glavine (he would make Glavine seem faster). Niekro owned Willie Stargell. He could still lose 20 games a year. And you know what they say (well Ernie Johnson at least) “You gotta be good to lose 20 games. If you were bad they would stop starting you.”
I see the Braves losing 100 games this year, with Chipper on the DL between May and September.As for the Falcons, Ryan has hit that wall. He is wasted. It will all be on the running game, with another 170 (maybe) from Ryan. I don’t think the coaches want to risk the turnovers. The best way for the Falcons to win will be to let the Cardinals do the turnovers. They can get 8 drives between the 20s (8x80=640 yards of offense), then fumble or throw a couple of pick 6s, the Falcons can win in a shutout. However, if the defense just plays gutsy and gives up its standard 450 yards, with no turnovers, then the Falcons will be one and done.
BUT DON’T BLAME IT ON THE ROOKIE QUARTERBACK! THE FALCONS ARE 11-5, AFTER BEING 4-12. nuff said. nothing else matters. next year we begin making Atlanta a consistent winner, regular season and playoffs.
By capt midnight
December 31, 2008 2:41 AM | Link to this
You seem to forget how rotten Andruw Jones was his last year here. He’s toast.
By SALTYDAWG IN N.GA
December 31, 2008 7:53 AM | Link to this
i hate baseball. too much money,too many games, players r “too greedy”.
By stew
December 31, 2008 8:24 AM | Link to this
2007 Andruw hit 26 hrs drove in 94 (how rotten his last year! right!) 2008 no Brave achieve those numbers.
By stew
December 31, 2008 8:37 AM | Link to this
Did Schafer ever hit more than 15 hrs in the minors? Gorkys more than 5? Anderson more than 5? Heck Gregor Blanco hit a whopping 2 hrs for the Braves. They’re all Punch and Judy players. Andruw probably in his worst Brave year hit more hrs than all of them combined. Home runs win games! Singles don’t! Bring back Andruw.
By Don
December 31, 2008 9:08 AM | Link to this
Andruw is not a bad idea — It is a terrible idea. He was not a good offensive player even at his best - was not clutch- did a significant part of his HR and RBIs in meaningless situations. Was the most overrated offensive player in baseball. Sad thing was his wasted talent — could have been one of all time best - amazing that he could even make contact, the way he overswung. Was an absolute loser on offense. And now fat Albert is no longer good defensively. Good riddance.
By Don
December 31, 2008 9:11 AM | Link to this
Andruw is not a bad idea — It is a terrible idea. He was not a good offensive player even at his best - was not clutch- did a significant part of his HR and RBIs in meaningless situations. Was the most overrated offensive player in baseball. Sad thing was his wasted talent — could have been one of all time best - amazing that he could even make contact, the way he overswung. Was an absolute loser on offense. And now fat Albert is no longer good defensively. Good riddance.
By stew
December 31, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this
I am sick and tired of all these unappreciative people calling Andruw fat. Everybody puts on weight when they approach 30. In fact, I’ve read where he lost weight recently. Before the 2005 season, Steve Sommers on WFAN was commenting on “the girth Andruw was growing”. All Andruw did was smack 51 hrs and drive in 128. Don, how many other players have ever accomplished those numbers. He carried us on his back. I just don’t think he’s finished.
By turkey
December 31, 2008 9:34 AM | Link to this
Just say no to Andruw. The Braves are falling back into that old pattern of looking back. This team must move foward give a younger player a chance. There has to be a diamond in the rough somewhere.
By Mike
December 31, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this
Might as well we need to say we acomplished something this offseason and its not like he can be any worse than our outfield offensely last year and at least his an upgrade deffensively even if hes 32 go for but LA needs to eat up that contract
By willdave
December 31, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this
Jeff, I don’t understand why the Braves and their followers feel that they must restrict their roster to older, washed up players. Why bring back Andruw, who was a bust in his final year in Atlanta and has been a bust in LA? Instead, bring in younger, fresh faces. Make a new start. Don’t keep holding onto and returning to the past.
By the way, I’m glad Furcal decided to stay with the Dodgers.
By danny
December 31, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this
What are all yall talking about andruw is a pro any of you who like to get on here and talk crap about the man that yall cheered for when he made diving catches out in center ………….batting .222 isnt bad with over 20 hrs and 90 rbis when you can save about 3 runs a game….talk is cheap bet you cant hit over .222
By Biff
December 31, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this
WHY WOULD ANDRUW IMPROVE UNDER BOBBY COX?
WASN’T BOBBY HERE WHEN ANDRUW WAS STINKING IT UP IN A BRAVES UNIFORM?
PLEASE SAY NO TO ANDRUW JONES !
I DON’T CARE IF THE DODGERS PAY ALL HIS SALARY !
By bravefalconhawk
December 31, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this
EVERYONE IN THE NL EAST ARE GETTING DEALS DONE EXCEPT FOR ATLANTA,I WONT EVER GIVE UP ON THIS TEAM BUT WOW IT DOESNT LOOK PRETTY…GO FALCONS!!!
By Chillymutt
December 31, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this
If Andruw returns I suggest 643 (as in double play 6-4-3) as his uniform number.
By Yeah, right
December 31, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this
Sure, right. The Braves did not give an over the hill, under achieving, GROSSLY overweight, cannot hit a curve ball if his fat life depended upon it, worthless Andruw Jones a fat contract two years ago. Why in the hell would they take what is left on a contract for a fat, cannot hit .156 with 2 HRs. WHY? They have enough people who cannot hit now. WHY would they want, need, even think about Jones? I’d play a AA player long before I would take Jones back. Last year was not just his worse year, he was on a down slide for several seasons. If I were a manager in baseball, I’d fine any pitcher on my staff that threw Jones a fast ball. He’d get NOTHING but breaking stuff all day. He has never hit a breaking pitch.
By BO......
December 31, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this
FOLKS JONES REAL AGE IS 42 AS IN. GOT YA MONEY, DONT CARE, GOY MY RING, NO PRIDE. SEE YA AT THE DINER.
By BO......
December 31, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this
FOLKS JONES REAL AGE IS 42 AS IN. GOT YA MONEY, DONT CARE, GOY MY RING, NO PRIDE. SEE YA AT THE DINER.
By af
December 31, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this
you will have to fight me for Kate Walsh!
By old timer
December 31, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this
Absolutely the Braves should bring back AJ with LA paying most of the salary. What does a team that is going to finish 4th the way things are now have to lose by doing that? They are not going to deal for a big-time outfielder; they shouldn’t because they need pitching. So Andruw, cheap, is worth a try. This is nonsense saying he never was a good offensive player or good in the clutch. Every player who hits 40-plus homers and drives in more than 100 runs has a lot of both that you can call “meaningless,” but Andruw carried the team at times, into playoffs and a few years ago almost single-handedly took them thru the postseason until the bullpen self-destructed. This is someone who has been a great player. Very recently.
By Sautee Dawg
December 31, 2008 6:43 PM | Link to this
Jeff,
Happy Holidays, agree with you on the number 10. No Hall, Owens. Pac-man, what’s the playoff’s coming to? Enough of the baseball news already, baseball’s for people who can’t tackle and people who are afraid to be tackled. On your number 1, i’ll take Ravens.
By bobbywrenn
December 31, 2008 10:11 PM | Link to this
What about installing Prado at 2nd base and moving Kelly Johnson to left? This would add another bat in the lineup without giving up another gazillon prospects for a rent a player or for past his prime outfielder.
By stew
January 1, 2009 12:03 PM | Link to this
Lineup - Gorkys LF/ Esco SS/Chip 3B/Andruw CF/Dunn 1B/Mac C/Heyward RF/Prado 2B Rotation - Greinke/Jair/Vasquez/Hanson/Medlan Relief - Gonzo/Bennett/Marek and fill in Transactions - sign Dunn, trade KJ/Frenchy/and 2 other prospects or has beens (Diaz, Anderson, Blanco, Campillo, etc.) for Greinke, take Druw off Dodgers hands for a prospect and have them pay the bulk of his salary. Notes - Let the kids play! Gorkys in left gives us finally a lead off threat. Andruw will bounce back to hit 30 hrs. Dunn’s 40 hrs certainly outweigh the good defense of Kotchman. Heyward gets his feet wet. Prado finally gets a legitimate shot. Greinke would be ace. Hanson, Medlan, and Marek get shot at big time. I repeat! Let the kids play! I am sick of hearing how they’re not ready. Throw them to the fire! Let them make their rookie mistakes this year so that they can dominate in 2010 when Freeman will be ready to join the party.
By Dixie Dawg
January 1, 2009 5:00 PM | Link to this
Okay, 1. Kate Walsh is so fine, I would drink her bath water!
The Falcons will prevail in the desert on Sunday, MR2 will get back on track.
The Braves aren’t going anywhere under present ownership. The worst decision MLB did was approve the sale of the Braves to Liberty Media.
They are perhaps the lousiest owners in the history of professional sports, next to the Ford family in Detroit.
Mark my words, fellow denizens, the Braves are going to be sucky until a local owner steps up and buys them.
And some people on here have said in the past that Liberty Media has spent “umpteen” amount of money to get people here.
What do we have to show for it? 3 consecutive years out of postseason. A mediocre General Manager, empty blue seats at the Ted.
By mistermak
January 1, 2009 11:38 PM | Link to this
i totally agree about the cowboys. they will never get a decent coach(leader) until Mr. Jones sells the team. No respectable coach is going to work for an owner who has to be the face of the team. The head coach should shoulder that and he will never allow it. He is a camera hog and he is so arrogant he has not even once asked himself the question “am I the reason we havn’t won a playoff game since ‘96?” Bill left for that reason and I am sure the T.O. saga got to him also. I was a diehard Cowboy fan all of my life and when Jerry basically drove Jimmy out of town I started to lose it. but when they signed that big baby Owens I opted out. I have cheered against them ever since and it has been quite fun to watch them fall all over themselves. boy don’t I miss the days of the Great Tom Laundry and good ole Tex!!!
By Mark
January 2, 2009 12:18 AM | Link to this
For the right deal price heck yeah love to see Andrew back in that Centerfield..making solid defence hitting 270 25-30 HRs batting 5th or 6th..yeah he can do it still
By Joe
January 2, 2009 12:44 AM | Link to this
The Braves need to fire Bobby Cox they will never go anywhere with him as coach. If anything the Braves should look into firing Bobby Cox and hiring Bobby Valentine the former NY Mets coach.
By rawn
January 4, 2009 2:56 PM | Link to this
“1: NFL playoff oddity: The four road teams are all favored. Three will win: Falcons, Colts and Eagles. The exception: Dolphins over Ravens.”
Uhh……….NO!!
Cards dumped your falcons.
Better “pray” to play somewhere else in January fool!!!