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DEL.ICIO.USWhy are Braves panicking so soon?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Mark Bradley
I’m seeing something I never thought I’d see from the Braves. I’m seeing desperation — in May, no less.
I’m seeing the organization that has made its reputation on playing from behind acting as if it can fall no farther behind. Indeed, John Smoltz said there’d have been no coming back had the Braves lost Sunday to drop 10 games behind. Since when did 10 games back after 31 games played become the threshold of elimination? Since when did a 10-game lead become insurmountable where a nine-game bulge apparently is not?
I’m seeing the Braves act as if they’re the team starved for a division title. On Sunday the Mets needed a starting pitcher and did as any right-thinking team would do on the Sunday after the Kentucky Derby — they summoned someone from the minors (the washed-up Jose Lima), hoped for the best and lived with the unsurprising loss. And the Braves?
They started a pitcher who’ll turn 39 next week on three days’ rest. Yeah, they won, and yeah, they’re eight games behind as opposed to the dreaded 10, but this was a case of risk trumping any possible reward. Smoltz has a long history of arm trouble and is on track to log 240 innings, more than in any season since 1997. Will the six innings he worked on May 7 show in August or September? If so, who starts on three days’ rest then?
The Braves, of all teams, should know better. Ten games back isn’t a breaking point: They trailed the Giants by 10 on July 22, 1993 — after 97 games, as opposed to 31 — and famously won the West. And that was the last year when winning a division was essential for postseason participation. There’s now this thing called the wild card. Since the Braves haven’t yet availed themselves of it, maybe they’re unaware it exists. If so, someone should advise them.
The Braves can still catch the Mets, but the desire to catch the Mets shouldn’t fog the bigger picture. You can win the World Series without winning your division. (Every Series winner from 2002 through 2004 did just that.) You cannot, however, win the World Series or even make a serious wild-card run if you kill your staff in the first six weeks. The day before Smoltz pitched on three days rest, the Braves activated Horacio Ramirez, who’d been scheduled to begin a rehab assignment in Class AAA. The night before Ramirez was summoned, Bobby Cox burned nine pitchers — the Mets used seven — in a 14-inning loss.
If the Braves go 77-54 from here on, they’ll finish with 90 wins. Ninety victories would have won the wild card last season. Such a pace (.588 over 131 games) would be easily doable with hale and hearty pitching, but the Braves are acting as if the charge must begin PDQ. Remind me again: Which team won the East by 10 games after being below .500 on July 4, 2004? Which team won the West after being below .500 and 9-1/2 games out of first at the 1991 All-Star break?
From Cox, heretofore the most patient manager I’ve ever known: “If you’re at .500 at the All-Star break, anything can happen.” As good as the Mets are today, there’s no guarantee they’ll look the same after 100 games. They’re already strapped for starting pitchers and Billy Wagner has blown more saves than Chris Reitsma and their schedule is about to toughen. The best way for the Braves to close ground is to stop worrying about the Mets and to let the six-month season take its course.
And that’s the thing: The Braves and Cox have always been experts at pacing themselves. They don’t overreact to a bad week or a bad month. At least they didn’t. Now I’m not so sure. If I’d had to bet on which team would have started a 38-year-old on three days rest on May 7, the Braves would have been my 30th choice.
The Braves used to be the ones reminding those of us on the periphery that a season lasts 162 games. Today they’re the ones who need reminding, they of all people.
Permalink | Comments (105) | Categories: Braves / MLB, Mark Bradley
Comments
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By Jason
May 8, 2006 03:55 PM | Link to this
I like Burritos.
By Jason
May 8, 2006 03:57 PM | Link to this
I like Burritos.
By Jason
May 8, 2006 03:57 PM | Link to this
I like Burritos.
By clong
May 8, 2006 04:03 PM | Link to this
Oh yeah, well I like burritos.
By Michael
May 8, 2006 04:05 PM | Link to this
I don’t see it as panic. They needed a fill in starter yesterday because Sosa had to pitch Friday, and given the off day today, it makes sense to push Smoltz up then pick up with the regular rotation on Tuesday and let John take advantage of the day off. That’s not panic, that’s trying to use the schedule to their advantage to win an important game (from a psychological standpoint).
Now, we get to start playing the Marlins & Nationals while the Mets get 12 of their next 15 versus the Phillies, Cardinals and Yankees, and 9 straight on the road. Let’s see how things stand after that stretch. I’m betting that the Braves are going to be in much better shape in 2 weeks than they are now.
By Coop
May 8, 2006 04:08 PM | Link to this
I like tacos…oh who am I kidding, I like burritos too.
By clong
May 8, 2006 04:13 PM | Link to this
Changed my mind, I like enchiladas better. They taste like heaven.
By T Robb
May 8, 2006 04:15 PM | Link to this
You’re seeing the panic because, for a change, the Braves have the time but they don’t have the horses.
Their payroll erosion is now in its fourth year; assuming that the rest of baseball grows payroll by 8-10%, this means an effective 35-40% payroll reduction over the last four years.
They were stronger in the Turner years and withstood several stout challenges. No more. This is the first year of the millenium they’ve been really challenged - and this bullpen, 5th starter, 1B and corner outfielders are not playoff worthy.
They’re about $12M short - an experienced bat and a legitimate, non-retread closer, two moves which would have a salient ripple effect on the remainder of the roster.
Chipper had an interview with the NY Post basically eviscerating TimeWarner for their fiscal handcuffs. If I’d sliced off $11M of guaranteed money off my contract expecting it to be reinvested in the enterprise only to see it swallowed into the gorging maw of the corporate imperative, I might be a little ticked off too.
That unflappable Bobby felt compelled to start Smoltz on short rest and get thrown out should tell you how dire the situation really is. Oh, well, as long as TimeWarner can satisfy its shareholders…
By Brian
May 8, 2006 04:16 PM | Link to this
Nice to play both sides of the fence, Bradley! You are the same guy who wrote a column a couple of weeks ago saying that this year was different than previous years because these Mets are “really good” compared to the NL East competition in recent years when the Braves had gotten off to slow starts. You said, “The Mets have a better lineup than the Braves, a better closer and a better top of the rotation.” If all that is true, then you have to make hay while you can. A game in May counts the same as a game in August or September. Since they don’t get to play the Mets again until July, they better beat them every chance they get. That is what they did on Sunday.
You have blown the events of this weekend all out of proportion. The reaction to starting Smoltz on 3-days rest was only because of Friday’s 14-inning game. That does not imply panic. Smoltz has been known to make hyperbolic comments to press in the past. Remember how he was all hyped up about starting opening day last season, only to get drilled by the Marlins in the first inning?
If you keep writing columns where you argue with your column from a couple of weeks ago, I will have to put you in the same category as Terence Moore — I ignore all his columns, by the way.
By Sir Clongbottom
May 8, 2006 04:17 PM | Link to this
T Robb,
That’s nice and all, but do you like burritos?
By DHD
May 8, 2006 04:26 PM | Link to this
Panicking? Because they make a few moves? If they don’t make moves they get accused of not caring about winning.
By matt
May 8, 2006 04:30 PM | Link to this
good blog, mark. pennant races are for september, not may.
By clong
May 8, 2006 04:32 PM | Link to this
Bad blog matt. Who cares about the Braves? What about burritos?
By T Robb
May 8, 2006 04:34 PM | Link to this
I like burritos, but prefer enchiladas.
By Pancho
May 8, 2006 04:34 PM | Link to this
I only like burritos made by illegals.
By Ben Sutton
May 8, 2006 04:49 PM | Link to this
Pretty good column Mark. I can still read yours- can’t say the same for Terrence or Jeff. Terrence is headed out to California to do the Rome is Burning- maybe he will stay out there.
By eric the elder
May 8, 2006 04:55 PM | Link to this
Great post, TRobb.
Mark, you might be right about an 8-10 game deficit not being insurmountable, but we can’t cite past teams as proof. This team has nowhere near the horsepower that those teams of the 90s had. We have no leadoff hitter, no first baseman, no closer, and no bench. Even if JS can pull off some miracle to close one of those holes, we still have the other three. The man can do only so much.
By Connie Lingous
May 8, 2006 04:57 PM | Link to this
Good column Mark, but I think the starter choice was driven by the fact Sosa pitched Friday in the extra inning game, not by panic. Personally, I don’t think the Braves have the personnel to win it this year.
By clong
May 8, 2006 05:01 PM | Link to this
Burritos people!!! Focus!!!!
By gomer
May 8, 2006 05:08 PM | Link to this
Tequila!
By gomer
May 8, 2006 05:09 PM | Link to this
Tequila!
By gibby
May 8, 2006 05:18 PM | Link to this
Whatz da deal with Andruw’s back, and comments that “he has to play hurt”..is this more of the panic attack, or is it a smokescreen that Bobby’s famous for? Is A.Jones healthy enuff to play Tuesday night? Anyone know for sure?
By Who Cares?
May 8, 2006 05:24 PM | Link to this
Braves couldn’t beat an egg
By Who Cares?
May 8, 2006 05:27 PM | Link to this
muchless the Mets
By "Who Cares?" likes men
May 8, 2006 05:28 PM | Link to this
“Who Cares?” takes it from behind.
By HBG
May 8, 2006 05:35 PM | Link to this
Who Cares…
In case you didn’t notice.. Muttage was defeated 13-3 on Sunday.
By Jason
May 8, 2006 05:35 PM | Link to this
I like fish sticks.
By bob
May 8, 2006 05:54 PM | Link to this
Can Edgar hit in the leadoff spot? I think that would put Giles in his most comfortable spot, the 2nd hitter. Why has Bobby not tried this?
By tokyobrave
May 8, 2006 06:43 PM | Link to this
I think we see this type of reaction because all off-season we keep hearing how everybody is getting better and the Braves are ready to be toppled. The Mutts did a great job spending the money and getting the players. They are better and we are off to a slower start thus the 8 game difference. It’s new to us and the national media loving all things New York or Boston are just dying to see someone beat the Braves. Take all that and throw in a couple of games against the Mutts in NY this past weekend that we should have won but didn’t and now everyone is wondering the same thing.
As far as Edgar hitting lead off - he may have the same issue hitting lead off as Giles. Might not be able to do it. He may be the better #2 hitter but not a #1 guy. Bobby and the bunch are smart people. They’ll figure it out and then we’re off to the races.
Lastly, I don’t even buy that the next two weeks are going to be make or break weeks. baseball is the best sport at finding the best team over the course of a season. We win 2 of 3, 3 of 4 and we’re OK. My only wish is that we get one more starter to give us some quality and one more bullpen guy to step up.
By Mike G
May 8, 2006 07:58 PM | Link to this
Jim Rome and Terrence Moore suck Burrito Arse!!!
By nodawgs
May 8, 2006 08:16 PM | Link to this
As usual the Mets are suspect-witness some of the strange non-efforts that Beltran made in CF. Braves as usual are strong up the middle but neither Andrew or Chip are acting like 40 hr/100 rbi guys. If the Braves have to resort to small ball, they’re in trouble. (see: last 10 years of playoffs)
JB
By OldTimer
May 8, 2006 08:17 PM | Link to this
T. Robb’s right. Time Warner pocketed Chippers 10 million. Modern day carpet baggers.
By Mike McDonald
May 8, 2006 08:27 PM | Link to this
The braves need a stud at first base who can hit for .300+, 110 RBIs and a gold glove. It could be Chipper or someone new whom the new owner will see as a wise investment in order to maintain the streak and improve the value of the franchise before selling out in two years. The owner(s) Malone (and Blank) will also spring for a top closer. In short, they will invest and harvest from the farm and the roster to do what it takes to go all the way in their first at bat as new owners. Yes wilson Betamint will be a regular, either at third with Chipper on first (gold glove or not) or as trade bait. Todd Pratt will be the catching coach while Salty or another slugging catcher will back-up Big Mac. An additional investment of $20-25 million, coupled with adroit trade packaging, will be seen as a small price to pay for the gold ring and the enhanced value of the franchise. In the end, we’ll still be at half the salary of the two NY entities. The additional acquisition of a Zito would be good insurance in case of the inevitable injuries occur that plague our starters.
Bold swift moves will positively shake up the Braves organization and stun the opposition. The sooner the better the team changes hands in the front office and on the field … at critical positions. MGMcD
MM
MGM
By Chief Knockahoma
May 8, 2006 09:02 PM | Link to this
I don’t think they’re panicking as much as they are doing whatever it takes to find a way to win. Although the word “panicking” does sensationalize the issue and adds some drama to what might be a very boring article because its stating the obvious.
By Firebrand
May 8, 2006 09:19 PM | Link to this
Beat the rush - give up pro sports now. You’ll be glad you did.
By From the days of the Jax Braves
May 8, 2006 09:25 PM | Link to this
Baseball to Time Warner is nothing more than the Braves being a non-performing asset. If you think Liberty Media will be any different, you are dumb enough to buy waterfront property in the Everglades. George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, Andrew Jackson are not baseball players - they’re $$$, the driving force behind any business, and the Braves are just that: a business.
What will get the new owner’s attention the quickest? (and I’m talking about Liberty Media, of course). Attendence. Let it start dropping precipitously and quickly (due to no baseball team on the field), and LM will not need a calculator to figure the losses. People won’t keep spinning the turnstiles if they finally figure out that neither TW nor LM give a damn about their asset other than how much money it can generate. Meanwhile, down on the farm….
By ms
May 8, 2006 09:32 PM | Link to this
Wish we could somehow use Wilson B more. Move Chipper over to 1st base (yes, LaRoche has a good glove, but he can’t hit a wall!) and let Wilson play at 3rd. Try Wilson out as the lead off hitter and move Giles to the 6 or 7 spot. Just a thought!
By ms
May 8, 2006 09:33 PM | Link to this
Wish we could somehow use Wilson B more. Move Chipper over to 1st base (yes, LaRoche has a good glove, but he can’t hit a wall!) and let Wilson play at 3rd. Try Wilson out as the lead off hitter and move Giles to the 6 or 7 spot. Just a thought!
By Chad
May 8, 2006 09:53 PM | Link to this
ms, Wilson B doesn’t have the speed to lead off.
By Steve
May 8, 2006 09:54 PM | Link to this
Write what you want Mark, but I’m not going to second guess Cox or Smoltz.
By Chad
May 8, 2006 09:54 PM | Link to this
ms, Wilson B doesn’t have the speed to lead off.
By Saywhat?
May 8, 2006 09:58 PM | Link to this
Why do people assume that Liberty Media is going to operate this franchise any differently than TimeWarner would? They are only interested in the Braves as a tax shelter, and then they will dump the team as soon as is legally possible. If anything, Braves fans should fear that kind of absentee ownership, rather than wish for it. John Malone doesn’t go to bed at night wondering how he can buy the Braves and sign a free agent 1B for them. He wants to know if buying and holding the team for a couple of years will save him millions in taxes.
By BALL BAT
May 8, 2006 10:21 PM | Link to this
Well maybe the braves and John Smoltz know that while the Mets and Phillys sign good players and spend money, Time Warner pinches pennyies and says play your rookies. Yes playing rookies is good, (one at a time) but not all at once. Smoltz knows that Adam LaRoche is not going to cut it at first and he also knows that the bullpen is no good. He has to pull a full game to get a win. Thats sick.
Now add up that Liberty Media who doesent even want the braves is going to be the new owners. Oh boy what do these guys have to look forward to. Not a vet who can help or bullpen arms, but futher structure and cuts in payroll.
John Smoltz knows what we should all know. Big corporations and big CEO bonus money is what its all about and they dont care what they destroy to get it.
This time they will destroy a dynasty. What more can be said. John Smoltz ant the braves know. They all know. The other teams have built while corporate America has taken away the HOME OF THE BRAVES.
By Joe Roman
May 8, 2006 10:23 PM | Link to this
I don’t see any panic on the part of the team. What I see is psychological war techniques. I think the Braves, especially Cox see the Mets as physically powerful, but psychologically vulnerable. What else could explain all the flattery in light of the Mets losing Zambrano and that pitiful performance by Lima? Even on TV, the deterioration of his stuff was clear. I’ll bet the percentage of Braves getting a good nights sleep is higher than the Mets after Sunday.
By Chad
May 8, 2006 10:47 PM | Link to this
The Braves do need to stop NY from aquiring Zito or Willis. Both of which could probably be dealt for. Instead, I see some bone head move for a retread…..like Rafael Palmero at first. I’m sure he’s out there somewhere. There’s plenty of talent to move in order to get help, but what ATL really needs to do is prevent the Mets and Phillies from adding another big gun. It’s time for JS to break out that “Built to Win” handbook and gitter-dun!
By John Hoar
May 8, 2006 10:57 PM | Link to this
Old Timer and TRobb-I was stunned when you stated that the dollars from Chipper, and other savings weren’t available. When was that brought out? I think I kind of keep up and haven’t heard a word on that. Was just sitting back waiting for JS to make his move. Not to doubt, but are you sure? Thanks for more info.
By MATT
May 8, 2006 11:05 PM | Link to this
The White Sox love Burritos - THEY RULE! They will win the WS anyway - who cares what the Braves do…..
By Anna
May 8, 2006 11:18 PM | Link to this
I actually like the fact that the Braves are not taking the Mets’ lead lightly. It may be early in the season, but every game counts. If the Braves are going to make a run late in the season, one game could be the difference between being Division champs and possibly not even making the playoffs at all. The Wild Card has been so competitive the past few years that there’s really no room to relax.
I like hearing the sense of urgency from Smoltzie and Chipper. I think it’ll help get this team going.
By jacon in destin
May 8, 2006 11:23 PM | Link to this
Getting Zito or making sure NYM doesn’t should be scherholz’ top priority.
By buckybeaver
May 8, 2006 11:53 PM | Link to this
you might like to think of yourself as a sports writer, but you really suck at it, almost as much as Terrence. give my son a shot at it & he (20 yr old) will show you what a true southern sports fan knows about important games. the braves need help but it will take someone like mr. blanks as an owner to right this ship (& luck). get a job or remember your old statements better.
By David Duncan
May 9, 2006 12:31 AM | Link to this
You’re just “grasping for straws”. The Braves are through. There is no way the Braves can catch the Mets.By the All Star break, the Braves will slide to 15 games behind the Mets. Here are the reasons: Giles is a miserable leadoff hitter. Chipper Jones should be traded for a premium closer but will not be. Franceour and Laroche are two automatic outs. Reeksma is not a closer and will continue to blow saves. The bullpen will continue to blow games as they did in the Mets series. It is over for the Braves. Braves fans just enjoy the Mets as they march to the World Series.
By burt
May 9, 2006 01:00 AM | Link to this
what is wrong with the braves. TIMES WARNER, ONERSHIP CHANGING IN THE MIDDLE OF THE SEASON, CORPERATE BASEBALL, WILL THE BRAVES BECOME A TAX WRITE-OFF TEAM. THE BRAVES HAS GOOD PLAYERS, GOOD SCOUTS, A GREAT MANAGER, A GREAT GENERAL MANAGER, WHO HAND IS TIED. THE TROUBLE WITH THE BRAVES IS AT THE TOP. IT,S NOT IN THE DUG-OUT OR THE CLUBHOUSE.
By HEAD CAOCH
May 9, 2006 02:06 AM | Link to this
Smoltz and Chipper are two experienced veterans who have been through the Grind of a 162 game marathon and they know this team has some serious issues to address if they are to be competitive. The Muts should be panicking , they have Pedro , Glavine and a bunch of clowns pitching for them. According to USA TODAY , The Braves have a 90 million dollar payroll. Hampton , Andruw , Chipper , Smoltz , Hudson and Renteria make up 66.8 million of that 90 million. More than 2/3 of the payroll is tied up in six players and in reality JS is only responsible for 80 million. An 80 million dollar cap with 80% of it tied up in six players and you wanted to know why we cant be fiscally competitive in the free agent market ? HELLO. Atlanta is a small market team with some huge contracts. Something has to give.
By HEAD CAOCH
May 9, 2006 02:20 AM | Link to this
Now for you folks who seem to think we are going after a high priced veteran like Willis or Zito , Forget that pipe dream. JS is tapped out , we cant pay another big contract. Remember Kevin Millwood ? He was a contract dump bacause we couldnt pay him. The attempt to trade John Thomson was the same thing , if he hadnt came up with a sore elbow he would have been traded. the sense of urgency on the part of Smoltz and Chipper is because they realize that if this team fails to show it is competetive , contracts will be traded in order to drop the team salary. The only way to prevent that is too start winning and fast.
By John B
May 9, 2006 05:18 AM | Link to this
Mark must have excelled in creative writing in college. I am in awe of how you can take one comment and turn it into a whole story. Maybe you should not live and breathe on every comment one of the Braves says. They may not all be as silver tongued as you. Some of us mortals say things that may not be exactly what we meant for it to be.
By Kelley
May 9, 2006 06:20 AM | Link to this
I like them French Fried Taters.
By MARK
May 9, 2006 06:56 AM | Link to this
Well..There is nothing wrong to make a good move and pitch Smoltz for 6 innings.He s the guy on the tyeam that everyone looks up to including most Braves fans.At least this story was about baseball and not barry bonds..I almost hate baseball because of barry bonds , he is so mean and undeserving..now maybe your partner can say im racest.Well guess what I AINT! Please fire Terrance Moore or im going to never buy this paper again.
By T Robb
May 9, 2006 07:10 AM | Link to this
Head Coach, Hampton’s money is a) paid by insurance and b) amortized over the length of his contract, which means a chunk of it has already been counted by the Braves. The real number is below $80m, and Chipper did give back guaranteed money (in exchange, ostensibly, for making non-guaranteed years guaranteed) in order to help the club sign some help.
The only signing of note was Renteria, and because of the creative hosing JS gave Theo’s short-term replacements in Boston, his money was basically a wash with his predecessor Furcal’s.
So, yes, TimeWarner pocketed Chipper’s rebate. And I, for one, am furious. And it wasn’t my $11m. Chipper Jones gave Time Warner $11m to go get a closer and a bat, and they didn’t do it, the bastards.
By Dick
May 9, 2006 07:13 AM | Link to this
The Braves need several things. 1- They need a first baseman. Adam is not only dead walking around, but dead in batters box. I guess his batting stance is suppose to put opposing pitchers a sleep.I would consider Chipper at First and Wilson at 3rd. 2- They need either a lead off hitter or get Marcus to bat with a lighter bat. A lead off hitter must be able to protect himself and Giles is using to large of a bat to be able to get on base
By brewerfaninATL
May 9, 2006 07:36 AM | Link to this
Yeah, well, Mr. Bradley the Braves may have come back from 10 out in 1993 but, other than Smoltz, no one else on the Braves’ playing roster was on that team, not even Chipper. I’m definately not saying it can’t be done but this is really the first bit of adversity during a regular season the Braves have had to face in a loooong time. This is a actually a GOOD Mets team, not the lucky Nats of last year or lucky Phils of the past few years and you KNOW the Mets are going to get a starter or two (Dontrelle?), so they are legit. Then again, just when I think I’ve seen it all I get surprised again…maybe #15 will be hanging in October after all!
By Saywhat?
May 9, 2006 07:53 AM | Link to this
TRobb- Agreed on Renteria’s contract value, disagreed on Hampton’s. As I understand it, FLA paid for most of Hampton’s salary the last two years, but the Braves are now on the hook. Insurance would only seem relevant if Hampton’s career ends… a year on the DL is only going to recover a couple of million via insurance, if any. The problem is the Braves are responsible for Hampton through 2008. Read that again: 2008! And his contract was backloaded, so that his salary will only continue to rise over the next two years. Thus, while his salary may not be beating down JS and the Braves at this very moment, it is certainly hanging over the franchise like a heavy cloud, preventing moves that could be made today for the next 3-5 years.
By Mart
May 9, 2006 08:28 AM | Link to this
Having someone pitch on 3 days rest doesn’t constitute desperation. It constitutes what should be normalcy.
By Jeff
May 9, 2006 08:39 AM | Link to this
Mark Bradley makes his living covering the Braves, among other assignments. If he says the Braves are panicking, they’re probably doing just that. And he’s right to say that they shouldn’t; there’s a lot of baseball yet to play. The Mets’ fortunes hinge on Pedro and Glavine and Wagner. Do Pedro and Glavine have the gas to get the Mets to the finish line first? We’ll see. But there’s no point in panicking, no point in making dumb trades, no point in giving up young blue chip talent for short term “fixes” that may not fix a thing.
By Bill
May 9, 2006 09:13 AM | Link to this
I think the Braves ARE aware of the wild card. Isn’t that the team that has been eliminating them from the playoffs recently?
By manny
May 9, 2006 09:20 AM | Link to this
Free Scott Thorman… Free James Jurries
and why exactly is Sosa still in the rotation?
By Mike
May 9, 2006 09:26 AM | Link to this
Mark, I think your missing the big picture. If the Braves play with the mindset like yours, they would not be so dominant in the NL East every year. They must think ahead to stay ahead. Not catch up as they go! The Braves realize that they must play each game like it is there last in order to stay the NL East Champs and it sounds like that was the message John Smoltz was trying to convey by his comments.
By Eric Shelander
May 9, 2006 09:28 AM | Link to this
At some point, whether 31 games in or 91 games in a leader, a team, has to draw a line in the sand and make a stand, some times in years past, the team has done it early, some times later on, but Smoltz was very cognizant that the season was slip sliding away. Just like it is time to use the best pinch hitter on the bench in the 6th inning with the bases loaded, rather than save him for the 9th inning. Smoltz was not being fatalistic, nor negative, when he made the comment about being 10 games back. But no, I see no panic, I hear Bobby say, first two games Friday and Saturday were one run losses and the Braves could just as easily have swept instead of losing 2 of 3. But they did not, and very simply, had the Mets swept, the season, could have been over for all practical purposes. Smoltz stepping up, drawing a line in the sand, saying it stops right here, may be just the thing this team needs to get itself righted. Chipper is hitting anemic, I mean right now I would rather have Betimit in the lineup rather than Chipper. And Giles has been pitiful in the leadoff role, things have got to change and change now. I think Smoltz started that change with his sacrifice of pitching on 3 days rest. Now it is up to the team to make sure he does not have to step up like that again the rest of the way. Then no harm, no foul.
By Tyler
May 9, 2006 09:46 AM | Link to this
I am so sick of the Braves bashers. Even if this is a growing season, who cares, every team has them and we haven’t had one in a long fu#&ing time. The young players that we have, Francouer, Langerhans, Laroche, Davies and even Sosa need a little more time to grow and become better and better. Laroche does need to have his swing tweaked because it’s too slow, but everbody needs to shut the hell up about us being so lousy. When we start winning, AND WE WILL, I don’t want to see any of the bashers on here saying anything or I will call you out. All of these people are sorry a** fans. GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Tyler
May 9, 2006 09:47 AM | Link to this
I am so sick of the Braves bashers. Even if this is a growing season, who cares, every team has them and we haven’t had one in a long fu#&ing time. The young players that we have, Francouer, Langerhans, Laroche, Davies and even Sosa need a little more time to grow and become better and better. Laroche does need to have his swing tweaked because it’s too slow, but everbody needs to shut the hell up about us being so lousy. When we start winning, AND WE WILL, I don’t want to see any of the bashers on here saying anything or I will call you out. All of these people are sorry a** fans. GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Tyler
May 9, 2006 09:47 AM | Link to this
I am so sick of the Braves bashers. Even if this is a growing season, who cares, every team has them and we haven’t had one in a long fu#&ing time. The young players that we have, Francouer, Langerhans, Laroche, Davies and even Sosa need a little more time to grow and become better and better. Laroche does need to have his swing tweaked because it’s too slow, but everbody needs to shut the hell up about us being so lousy. When we start winning, AND WE WILL, I don’t want to see any of the bashers on here saying anything or I will call you out. All of these people are sorry a** fans. GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Lew
May 9, 2006 09:48 AM | Link to this
There is definitely room forimprovement, but why is everyone so upset. Smoltz was right-they needed the win on Sunday. His ten game comment was pretty much taken out of context. Sometimes a team (especially a team as young as the Braves), needs to be shaken up a bit. That is what Smoltz did, nothing more. As far as his starting on 3 days rest, it won’t be a regular occurrence and he pitched well. He has taken advantage of rest oppurtunities and has quit throwing the split finger pitch which causes strain. I’m much more concerned over Sosa/Ramirez. It was bound to happen that Jorge couldn’t continue with the Houdini routine. You can’t get yourself in those situations continually and expect the results to be good. Also, he can’t pitch more than six innings, max. The pitchers also need to learn about stretching their legs. This many hamstring injuries is becoming ridiculous. We need Chuck James, We may need him to start. Marcus will come along and so will Chipper. Hang in there. It is still early and the Mets are going to come off of their cloud soon. Remember, no team is as good as their very best or as bad as their very worst. The trend is reversing.
By John Horton
May 9, 2006 09:55 AM | Link to this
This article is EXACTLY on point. As someone who hung with the Braves in the 70s and 80s when they couldn’t muster a .500 record very often, I have to tell my wife almost every game to chill and remember that the Braves have more experience at getting their act together under adversity than any other team in baseball. Try to enjoy the games and let’s see where things stand in September. Maybe they won’t win the division - so what, I’d rather them win the Wild Card and go to the Series. Heck - i’m happy if on any given day I have a 50% chance of seeing them win.
By Nick
May 9, 2006 10:03 AM | Link to this
So, Smoltz starts one game on short rest because Sosa, who hasn’t pitched well, was used in a 14 inning game 2 days earlier and despite the “activation” of Ramirez, who isn’t ready to pitch and may go on the DL again to rehab, and suddenly the Braves are “panicking?” Get a grip. And, try thinking before you write.
By T Robb
May 9, 2006 10:06 AM | Link to this
Say What: Here’s the deal on Hampton’s salary. The Braves got the Marlins and Rockies to absorb all but $48m of the deal, which had six years left on it. You correctly point out that most of that was absorbed by the Marlins in the first half and that the second half of the deal Hampton makes 14-16m/yr.
However, the Braves, for accounting purposes, levelized the deal for expensing purposes at $8m per year. Thus, each of this year and the next two were to be expensed at $8m/yr - even though he still gets paid the $14m.
But 80% of the $14m this year comes from casualty insurance, as the Braves bought payroll insurance in case Hampton was unable to fulfill his contract because of injury.
So in real dollar terms, contrary to the USA Today salary figures, TimeWarner comes out of pocket $11m less for Hampton and $3m less for Renteria, which leaves them at $76m, $4m short of their stated payroll goal, which has remained constant at $80m despite the payroll inflation going on in the game.
That’s why you have a roster with five guys north of $9m and 15 players making less than $450k (minimum is $327k).
Bottom line: as Old Timer says, TW are carpetbaggers. I’ll go one further and say they’re thieves. Not only have they abused the public trust that comes with owning a sports franchise (and is to me the key reason corporate ownership should be outlawed in baseball as it is in other sports), they took an $11m rebate from their best player and put it into the general fund. And that is beyond unconscionable.
Bradley, there’s your real story.
By Ryder
May 9, 2006 10:26 AM | Link to this
No love for chalupas?
By warren
May 9, 2006 10:31 AM | Link to this
Hey, what’s the big deal about worrying about winning games now? I mean how many years have the Braves had great seasons and lousy post seasons? For years they did poorly during the season after moving to Atlanta. Now at least they win during the season. How about doing just well enough to get into the playoffs without burning out the hitters and pitchers during the season and then winning the “big games”!
By Jack
May 9, 2006 10:36 AM | Link to this
When you have a slow day at the office and need something to do, Just dream up some wild opinion and start writing. All that garbage is just Bradleys OPINION, AND WE KNOW WHAT THAT IS WORTH.—-NOTHING
By sam
May 9, 2006 10:36 AM | Link to this
Burritos are for f**gs
By K. Shane
May 9, 2006 10:39 AM | Link to this
Once again a hack sports writer comes up with a pretext and sets about the task of proving his own theory. The level of journalism that we Braves/Sports fans must endure is pathetic. One quote from Smoltz is enough to build the premise that the whole team is panicking? Give me a break. Let us know if you have any other sources for this story Mr. Bradley. You don’t have to reveal their names (although you should, it’s not like your giving up Deep Throat) just acknowledge that they exist. As an outside observer it seems to me that the Braves are struggling, not panicking. You have real access to the team Mr. Bradley. Why don’t you ask the Braves how they feel about the matter? I would venture to say more would agree with my assessment than yours. The only person who seems panicky at this point is you.
By h_charles
May 9, 2006 11:47 AM | Link to this
ERic the Elder and T-Robb have it right. Teams in years past had the players to make for a slow start. There was no need to panic b/c we knew then that we had better players than our poor start indicated, and over the longhaul our talent would prevail. This year’s squad doesn’t have the talent. We are dreadful at 1st base. WE have no leadoff hitter (look back at how the Braves perform when they get leadoff production vs. when they don’t — difference is night and day). We have the worst bench in the NL, and we have no bullpen or closer, which is a killer for the Braves since we will play so many 1-run games. It is time get serious, and Cox did the right thing starting Smoltz. Although it is early, these Mets are for real, and we have already squandered the lion’s share of head-to-head matches against them. We needed that win, and Cox made sure we got it.
By Rick Roberts
May 9, 2006 11:58 AM | Link to this
A Braves fan since ‘53. But, this team is in serious need of help—not soon, but now! Get Craig Wilson to replace Adam LaRoche—LaRoche is a backup 1B not a starter. We need RH power. Could trade Adam to the Cubs now, too. Next, and quickly, decide on a closer. It is not Reitsma—trade him for something. There isn’t much on the market, but I’m sure there is a sleeper somewhere that our scouts know about—maybe the Cubs. Lastly, try to find a speedy backup OF—like Gaithwright. If we fall out of it, trade Giles and bring up Prado. Yes, it is time to panic—it’s not just the Mets—the Phils are a good team just lacking some pitching.
By Carlos27
May 9, 2006 12:19 PM | Link to this
I love steak burritos, Braves are going to be fine , we have an awsome defensive outfield with ok hitters.Defense wins WS too. Lets just keep an eye on first base .
By Brian
May 9, 2006 12:41 PM | Link to this
Regardless of context, Smoltz made his comments after the game — after they had won. I doubt very seriously if he would have said the season is over if they had lost and ended up 10 games out. It is just a dumb jock making a dumb comment to a dumb sportswriter who turns it into a dumb column. That is the only context you need to understand in the world of sports.
By phillyfanaticintheatl
May 9, 2006 01:08 PM | Link to this
cannot believe mets fans on these blogs think they are a lock…they are fortunate to be catching the braves when they are down…we sure have not given up on them being a contender….expect a 3 team race when september roles around…do believe braves are going to have to make a roster move or 2 to do their usual comeback…GO PHILLIESSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!
By Dave
May 9, 2006 01:28 PM | Link to this
I think everyone is panacking the braves will come back and go all the way just wait and see. Bring up Jurries to platoon with LLaRoach, at least Jurries can hit with some regularity. Go Braves
By Zoobreath
May 9, 2006 02:48 PM | Link to this
Hey, just wait and see what the win will do for the Braves over the next 10 games. As usual Bobby Cox (the best manager ever) made the right decision. It would have been foolish to let Smoltz sit for 5 games. We are two players short as of now. Someone may step-up or we’ll have to pick-up a pitcher and a lead off hitter (.290 plus)with speed and let Giles double him in. If so 10 one run losses could have been wins.
By Hal
May 9, 2006 03:11 PM | Link to this
The one good thing coming out of time warner budget constraints and regular players leaving(furcal,Farnsworth et all) is the Braves have 6 players available in the first 72 of the up coming amateur draft !Along with a well stocked farm system already that bodes well for the future.The present team with all its shortfalls is still very much a factor in this years race .If JS makes a trade for a leadoff hitter and closer from the riches of the farm system this could still turn into a very interesting season
By dallas
May 9, 2006 03:12 PM | Link to this
the only shot atlanta had in getting the players they needed was to get new ownership who are willing to spend the money to bring in a good closer and quality starter and now it looks like were getting ownership that only cares about wether or they can raise their profits .
By Prootwadl
May 9, 2006 03:48 PM | Link to this
What’s with all the baseball talk? I thought this board was about burritos? :-)
By HermanEatsBurritos
May 9, 2006 04:38 PM | Link to this
I am also a fan of burritos. Sometimes I eat fried chicken.
By Buttwad
May 9, 2006 04:40 PM | Link to this
Ever tried the Gordita? It’s a burrito and a taco in one.
By the Captain
May 9, 2006 04:50 PM | Link to this
Mark, I understand your reasoning, but weren’t you the one we just wrote an article before the Mets series saying a statement weekend was very much needed? How is that you go from saying they needed to win at least 2 out of 3 to saying they were foolish to making sure they did whatever necessary to win at least 1?
By Jason
May 9, 2006 05:20 PM | Link to this
I like beans.
By HermanEatsBurritos
May 9, 2006 05:32 PM | Link to this
I don’t think you can have burritos without the beans. Therefore, Jason, your comment about liking beans is really pretty redundant. I think we could all agree to that.
By Border Bandito
May 9, 2006 05:47 PM | Link to this
Herman, you are wrong. We cannot agree to that. I only like beef, cheese, and sauce on my burrito. Beans and rice are side dishes and should not be used as cheap fillers for burritos. There is a difference between a BEEF burrito and a BEAN burrito.
By Marty
May 9, 2006 06:23 PM | Link to this
By Buttwad
May 9, 2006 06:47 PM | Link to this
Yes, but what about the Gordita?
By Jason
May 9, 2006 06:59 PM | Link to this
Don’t hate the burritos, hate the beans.
By Brian
May 9, 2006 07:35 PM | Link to this
Everyone talks about the weak Mets’ starting pitching like Atlanta’s is much superior. Let me remind everyone that this is 2006, not 1996. After Smoltz, there is not a single starter in the Braves’ rotation that can really be counted on. Hudson is becoming a joke — he has had many more mediocre-to-poor starts as a Brave than he has had stellar starts. Then after that, you have Thomson (who the Braves brass thought so much of they supposedly tried to trade him in spring training — not to mention that his finger may explode again at any time), Ramirez (when he’s not hurt, he’s serving up dingers), Sosa (the one-hit wonder), and Davies (who is still very questionable). At best, a current comparison between the Mets’ and Braves’ starters is a wash.
By john
May 9, 2006 09:38 PM | Link to this
Bobby Cox has a problem in knowing when to bring in his bullpen,Thomson pitching with an 8-1 lead and he takes him out and brings in Ray,yes Ray has pitched well,but why can’t Thomson keep pitching and get a complete game,with this shakey bullpen,they need all the time off they can get.Remember they can’t hold a lead.
By Clay
May 9, 2006 11:11 PM | Link to this
So whats the big deal if they miss the playoffs? All you do is lose one more week of baseball.
By DustinH
May 10, 2006 12:45 AM | Link to this
i HATE Time WARNER!!!! and will never use AOL again,, thanks for cheapning our team and ruining a dynasty. with just a few pieces this team could be world champs!! i still believe ,GO BRAVES!
By DustinH
May 10, 2006 12:46 AM | Link to this
i HATE Time WARNER!!!! and will never use AOL again,, thanks for cheapning our team and ruining a dynasty. with just a few pieces this team could be world champs!! i still believe ,GO BRAVES!
By burt
May 10, 2006 01:11 AM | Link to this
smoltz is right. let the braves go on a 7 or 8 game losing streak and the fat lady sings,. turn out the light the party over. one of the two top teams can get on a losing, not both at the same time. it won,t happen. if the braves needs help, it has to come from the farm.
By HEAD COACH
May 10, 2006 02:43 AM | Link to this
I see there is much confusion over Mike Hamptons contract so let me see if I can explain it without adding even more confusion. His current contract is for 103.5 million extending from 2001 to 2008. From 03 to 05 the Marlins and Rockies picked up a combined 30 million of his contract while he played for Atlanta and the Braves payed out 12.8 million. Hamptons contract is backloaded for a remaining 40.5 to 41.7 million from 06 to 08 of which the Braves are responsible for.The figures vary due to interest and taxes , but the bottom line is his contract is a huge albatross hanging over this franchise. The best we can hope for is he comes back in 07 , has a good season and JS can trade the last year of his contract like he did with Millwood.