AJC > Sports > Columnists > Archives > 2006 > June > 04 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USIn summation, the Braves really stink
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Jeff Schultz
The day started with players from something called the World Softball League putting on a pre-game home run exhibition. For some reason, they used their own pitcher. They could’ve saved on travel costs and just borrowed Chris Reitsma.
Then the real game started. I think. These days it’s hard to tell the difference between the pros and the warm-up clowns. Maybe instead of running out for the start of the game, the Braves should just pile into a Volkswagen and drive onto the field.
“We all just stink,” Jeff Francoeur said Sunday.
Apparently, you don’t need to be a 10-year veteran to have perspective.
The Arizona Diamondbacks are good. They’re not Godzilla. But the Braves lost Sunday, 9-3, and got swept in a four-game series for the first time in 11 seasons.
They have lost six of seven on the homestand. They’ve led only once in the six losses (that was 1-0 in an 8-3 pounding by Los Angeles.)
The 1-6 stretch follows a 15-5 stretch, which followed a 12-18 start. Tonight is souvenir air sickness bag night.
“We all just stink,” sums things up nicely.
Include Jorge Sosa, who gave up home runs to lead off the first and second innings and is now 1-7 with a 5.07 ERA (after going 13-3 and 2.55 a year ago). Include almost the entire pitching staff, which allowed the Diamondbacks 26 runs, 42 hits and eight home runs in the last two days (three games). Include a lineup that Francoeur and Adam LaRoche says hasn’t started games aggressively enough. (LaRoche: “We got hot for a few games, and now it seems like we forgot what we’re here. I’m as much to blame as anybody.”)
They are now 1-6 against the Diamondbacks. The good news: They are 18-5 against the Marlins, Cubs, Nationals, Rockies and Padres. That should come in handy when they play, I dunno, Estonia.
Maybe we should’ve known this was coming. Last Wednesday, assistant general manager Dayton Moore left to run the worst team in baseball in Kansas City. This was big news for the Royals. They hadn’t been anybody’s preferred option for two decades.
The next day, John Schuerholz was stopped by Turner Field security as he attempted to walk toward the press elevator. She didn’t see his credential and didn’t recognize his face. Worst of all, she hadn’t read the book. Nor did she show up for Schuerholz’ book-signing before Sunday’s game (perhaps believing the title, “Built to Win,” was outdated.)
Friday was a good day. It rained.
On Saturday, the Braves got swept. Bobby Cox was ejected for the 121st time in his career. (He is only 10 behind all-time leader John McGraw. He is five wins behind Joe McCarthy for sixth on that list. At this rate, he’ll catch McGraw first.)
On Sunday, Sosa did his best to lose it before Cox had to go to the bullpen. Home run by Jeff DaVanon to open the game. Home run by Tony Clark to start the second. With two outs and two on later in the inning, pitching coach Roger McDowell walked to the mound. Whatever he said must have really worked. Sosa then threw a wild pitch to advance the runners and yielded a two-run single to DaVanon.
“It’s like we’re all waiting for something to happen,” Francoeur said. “We get down 5-0 or 6-0 before we start hitting.”
The lad is exaggerating. It was only 4-0. Then 5-1. Then 5-3.Then in came the lost Marx brother, Implodo.
Turns out that Reitsma not only can’t hold a lead, he can’t hold a two-run deficit. In the ninth, he allowed a single, a double and two home runs. The grounds crew swept up his remains and scooped them into an urn.
You tell yourself that a team could be worse than 28-29. The All-Star break is still five weeks away. But even Cox called this, “probably the worst series that we’ve ever had here.”
And the lines between pro and amateur are getting blurry.
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By aaron
June 4, 2006 07:04 PM | Link to this
i read the players quotes everyday and its the same stuff.”we need to do this better and that better” its come time to stop talking about already and do it. 14 years means nothing. the presnt is here its its 6 games out of first!!! bobby needs to get on these guys already and start winning.
By reitsmas ma
June 4, 2006 07:13 PM | Link to this
whens my boys memorial service, jeff? ill be the first one to drive by and yell “you suck!”
By Andy
June 4, 2006 07:14 PM | Link to this
I am a big fan—-I just don’t think we have it this year—-last year Andrew carried the team for 2 months—winning games we had no right winng—-no one is able to step p and change the team direction.
We have okay at best starters/the worst bul-pen(period—maybe the worst pen we’ve had in a while—-that says alot) and our hitters are young and streaky—-the ones who are older are just streaky(except renteria of course—and Brain but he’s out) we will not have the furcal getting hot in the middle of the year push which usally helped/saved us alot of games.
IT DOES NOT LOOK GOOD!!!! Maybe it’s over—been one heck of a ride.
By Sonny
June 4, 2006 07:16 PM | Link to this
I don’t see things getting any better…Giles with his 240 avg is not a leadoff hitter, Chipper is a shell of his former self, Andruw is back to his old ways after last years aberration. Laroche, Francour and Langerhans are all batting 240 and that’s probably about 20 points below what they’ll usually bat. Pratt is Pratt, a backup. Betemit is underused and therefor not able to contribute. Oh and please someone get Orr and his 199 avg the heck out of Atlanta. Utility player or not, he’s a joke of a hitter.
Now on to the pitching…Smoltz and Hudson are too inconsitent and there skills are on the decline (Smoltz more than Hudson), Sosa and Thompson just plain suck and Ramierez is a wild card right now. The bullpen is the worst in the majors and maybe the worst the Braves have ever had. There isn’t a single guy in the pen that can come in and do his job, not ONE! I knew when JS didn’t address the pen in the offseason that this would happen. Sticking with Reitsma as the closer after he has been crap all but one month of his tenure here, will always boggle my mind.
The division is no longer ours, nor should it be with the way we are playing.
By Sonny
June 4, 2006 07:18 PM | Link to this
I don’t see things getting any better…Giles with his 240 avg is not a leadoff hitter, Chipper is a shell of his former self, Andruw is back to his old ways after last years aberration. Laroche, Francour and Langerhans are all batting 240 and that’s probably about 20 points below what they’ll usually bat. Pratt is Pratt, a backup. Betemit is underused and therefor not able to contribute. Oh and please someone get Orr and his 199 avg the heck out of Atlanta. Utility player or not, he’s a joke of a hitter.
Now on to the pitching…Smoltz and Hudson are too inconsitent and there skills are on the decline (Smoltz more than Hudson), Sosa and Thompson just plain suck and Ramierez is a wild card right now. The bullpen is the worst in the majors and maybe the worst the Braves have ever had. There isn’t a single guy in the pen that can come in and do his job, not ONE! I knew when JS didn’t address the pen in the offseason that this would happen. Sticking with Reitsma as the closer after he has been crap all but one month of his tenure here, will always boggle my mind.
The division is no longer ours, nor should it be with the way we are playing.
By Deano
June 4, 2006 07:23 PM | Link to this
Wow, a black police officer stopping the GM of the Braves at his own stadium. WHY DIDN’T YOU TURN ARROUND AND SLUG HER JOHN? SEEMS THAT IS ACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOR THESE DAYS…CORRECT.
By nathan
June 4, 2006 07:25 PM | Link to this
How come nobody has posted that the braves players know nothing about baseball & that they are just being pesimists, that there is still a lot of “baseball” left to be played, that the braves of old have come back from bigger deficits, that Bobby will guide them somehow to the playoffs, that they’re just unlucky because the ball’s not bouncing there way!
Because I’ve been saying this team “STINKS” for about 10 days, and have gotten nothing in response from people other than the crap I typed above.
THIS TEAM WILL NOT MAKE THE PLAYOFFS THIS TEAM WILL NOT EVEN FINISH 2ND IN EAST THIS TEAM WILL BE SELLERS AT THE DEADLINE THIS TEAM WILL “CLEAN HOUSE” THIS OFFSEASON
BUT BEST PART IS THERE IS 87 DAYS UNTIL OPENING WEEKEND OF THE NFL & 220 DAYS UNTIL SPRING TRAINING!
When this team makes it to the post season this year, I will come on these blogs and appologize sincerely to everyone & appoint Bobby Cox supreme master of all that lives. But when everything I typed above happens, I return with one BIG “I told ya so!”
By gotigers72
June 4, 2006 07:28 PM | Link to this
Pitiful bullpen, some anemic batting averages, spotty starting pitching, poor defense at times [why is the defense so different than last year?]. It all adds up to a losing record. Not only a losing record, just lousy baseball and a team that is not even fun to watch. Every time Bobby has to go to the bullpen, you just shake your head and know things will go from bad to worse. In my opinion, the bullpen needs fixing worse than any of the other problems. Blowing saves and letting games get out of hand [when it was close before] are demoralizing to the team.
Too many strikeouts is next on the list. It seems like every team knows how to pitch to the Braves now. I know they have a lot of young bats in the lineup, but they should have found a way to make contact more by now.
A third of the season is over. It’s time for some changes. Please don’t give away top prospects. Bring them up and let them play. If you’re going to lose, at least give some of that young talent a chance to get some experience.
By Donovan Coley
June 4, 2006 07:33 PM | Link to this
Let’s call a spade a spade. We can all listen to “Bobby Cox is a player’s coach and should be the manager of the year after year”, Bobby Cox leaves in the game pitchers who should be yanked early in the game. His compassion for their egos and not wanting to bruise their confidence is killing this team. Post season results will tell you that! Until you spend some money on talent and replace a compassionate manager, you will have to live with the dismal results of mediocrity. Put old guy Chipper Jones on first, trade Larouche while there is time, install Betemit at third, and buy starting and relief pitching. Forget about what pitcher was worth a damn last year and look to the future.
By fnreitsma
June 4, 2006 07:37 PM | Link to this
everyone is terrible right now. FACT. however, Reitsma has been terrible for 2 1/2 years minus 1 month in July last year. FACT.
why don’t they release him????
By Luis
June 4, 2006 07:44 PM | Link to this
Between Chris Reitsma and Sosa they are making me have to thionk about anger management. REITSMA IS ONE OF THE WORST PICTHERS IN THE HISTORY OF BASEBALL!!!!! ALL HE DOES IS GIVE UP HOMERUNS AND STAND THERE WITH NO FIRE AT ALL AND JUST GET RIPPED. WHERE IN THE HOLY WORLD IS JOEY DEVINE? PLEASE GET RID OF REITSMA RELEASE HIM DO SOMETHING!!! WE CAN’T KEEP GETTING BEAT AND DO NOTHING ABOUT IT! SOSA HAD ONE YEAR AND THAT IS IT GET RID OF HIM PLEASE., SHOW SOME RESPECT FOR THE BRAVES LEGACY AND USE THE FARM SYSTEM TO STOCKPILE AGAIN. WE HAVE SOME YOPUNG ARMS IN THE FARM WE CAN START TO USE. BUT PLEASE DO SOMETHING. LA ROCHE CAN’T HIT HIS WEIGHT, GILES LOKKS SO LOST AND OUT OF WHACK AND CHIPPER SHOULD START TO WORK ON HIS PENSION, PLEAS SPEND SOME MONEY AND SHOW SOME RESPECT FOR THE FANS, THIS IS GETTING WAY OUT OF HAND AND WITHOUT MCANN AND FRANCOEUR SWINGING AT SLIDERS IN THE FIRST BASE BOX WE WILL NOT WIN. PLEASE THIS IS GETTING DEPRESSING
By Steve
June 4, 2006 07:44 PM | Link to this
Seth Gresinger, a starter from the Detroit Tigers organization, came up last year pitched 6 innings, gave up two runs and now pitches in Korea. Charles Thomas, D. Wise, platooned in left and disappeared. Second Baseman Ned Green filled in nicely for Giles and now is the AL. Scott Thorman is tearing up IL at Richmond. Strong is LF pick-up that has only been caught stealing one time in three years in the minors. Kelly Johnson is recovered and playing every day at Richmond. Wes Timmons is 4th in hitting as SS in IL. E. Campbell is showing superstar potential at 3rd base in AA. Can the Braves get Gresinger back and would Reitzma be better off as a starter and Sosa in the bullpen? And maybe Braves gave up on Greisnger and he deserves a chance to pitch again in the majors.
One thing they lack is speed at the top and every one is swinging for the fences. Putting some speed in the line-up and letting Giles hit his 50 doubles somewhere else in the order would seem like an alternative Cox should consider. Too many flat-footed players in the line-up.
By willy
June 4, 2006 07:46 PM | Link to this
Emotional attachment aside, this is just not a very good team. After 14 years of playoff baseball (only one title, remember?), the Braves will do all of us a favor and not sneak into the playoffs only to get blown out in the first round again. These four games against the D’Backs is a reminder of what would happen to the Braves if by some miracle - they did make the playoffs. Take a year off and try building a team that can not only excel in a weak division in the regular season, but can maybe make it past the first round of the playoffs
By Blacksburger
June 4, 2006 07:47 PM | Link to this
Seems that even if we make some deals, we could “just” make the play-offs. With our pitching, I think winning a series is out of the question. So why not trade off some of the guys that are not doing anything for us?
Bring up some pitchers and let them get some innings. And make everyone available save for McCann, Renteria, Francour, Andruw and Smoltz. And maybe keep Betemit.
The Hudson deal, while not what we thought he would be, is still good for us. Oakland got Chuck Thomas (whose in the minors) and Cruz (whose pitching for the D-Backs), but if someone desperate for pitching offers 2 awesome prospects…
Heck, maybe all we need is a good #3 starter. Maybe we could trade Hampton’s salary back to the Marlins and get Willis. And then trade the bullpen to Baltimore for Leo.
By JJMB
June 4, 2006 08:03 PM | Link to this
Many good points. Bringing in talent will cost $, and the Braves are being sold. Will an out-of-state corporate buyer break their necks to spend money? I doubt that.
The only player I can be happy about is Renteria. Everyone else has underachieved, or should be in AAA.
By Mad Mike
June 4, 2006 08:05 PM | Link to this
There is a poll asking the question “what’s wrong with the Braves?” on ajc.com. I chose “the bullpen” but what I really wanted to choose is “uncertainty in the organization.”
I hate that the team I love is owned by a disinterested corporation. I hate that the team I love will soon be bought by another disinterested corporation. I hate that the team I love has its games broadcast on 3 different networks regularly (4 when ESPN gets in the mix).
Ron Gant is OK; Bob Rathbun is not. Neither is Jeff Torborg. They are terrible. Go away, FOX.
Skip and Pete are unbeatable. Even if the Braves are getting smoked it’s fun to watch the game because I’m hanging out with Skip and Pete. I would rather hear Skip complain about traffic in Atlanta for an entire half inning than listen to Jeff Torborg do his best rendition of “I’m Joe Morgan and I know everything about baseball” for a whole game. So I have to mute the TV and turn on the radio.
Somebody call The Police: “I’m sending out an SOS.”
By Larry
June 4, 2006 08:05 PM | Link to this
“It’s like we’re all waiting for something to happen,” Francoeur said.”
Jeff,
Welcome to the managerial phylosophy of Bobby Cox. He hasn’t a clue without dominant pitching and a three run homer!
By oldcdgrwally
June 4, 2006 08:06 PM | Link to this
losing all interest in Braves, what a disaster! expect Cox, Schuerholq, Chipper, Smoltz at the end of the year say Adios, we cannot take it anymore. WHAT ABOUT THE HITTING COACH?? have felt for years tht Pendergast may have been a v good hitter but cannot motivate anyone to help them get out of slumps nor really teach anyone on the team to become hitters, not just wild swingers like Giles, Andruw, Jeff Fr. Braves need solid contact hitters not wild swingers for the fence every at bat. The old codger, have watched most of the great players either in person or on TV.
By JJMB
June 4, 2006 08:07 PM | Link to this
Oops, I forgot about McCann. Renteria and McCann.
Get well soon Brian!
By oldcdgrwally
June 4, 2006 08:07 PM | Link to this
losing all interest in Braves, what a disaster! expect Cox, Schuerholq, Chipper, Smoltz at the end of the year say Adios, we cannot take it anymore. WHAT ABOUT THE HITTING COACH?? have felt for years tht Pendergast may have been a v good hitter but cannot motivate anyone to help them get out of slumps nor really teach anyone on the team to become hitters, not just wild swingers like Giles, Andruw, Jeff Fr. Braves need solid contact hitters not wild swingers for the fence every at bat. The old codger, have watched most of the great players either in person or on TV.
By Submariner
June 4, 2006 08:09 PM | Link to this
Get rid of Sosa, Reitsma and Remlinger. You cannot trade Hudson. If you expect them to get anywhere in the post season, they are going to need him. That’s if they make it. Even if they fall out of contention, they still need to hang onto Hudson. If they are going to rebuild, they need to rebuild around him. The Braves already have him locked up. Smoltz will inevitably be the pitching coach. Probably within the next three years and there’s plenty of young sticks on the roster and in the minors. They need to solidify the bullpen and get another left handed starter. AND FIGURE OUT HOW TO GET BETEMIT IN THE LINE-UP!!!! I say get rid of LaRoche, move Chipper to first and put his @$$ at third!!!!!!!! Oh…..and some speed at the top would be nice, since I’m asking.
By Kentavo
June 4, 2006 08:14 PM | Link to this
It is definitely time for changes. I’m not going to spout a bunch of unrealistic stuff. However, getting rid of Reitsma by any means possible seems do-able. Then bring up some minor league talent to inject some energy - preferably someone with some speed and some plate discipline. Is that possible? We’re actually fortunate to be only 1 game under .500 with the way we’ve played. I’m not ready to give up, but I’m not optimistic if changes are not made.
By Deano
June 4, 2006 08:21 PM | Link to this
Wow, John getting stopped by a black officer. Why didn’t you turn around and slug her John. Seems like that is ok these days.
By Forrest
June 4, 2006 08:22 PM | Link to this
stink is not the word I would use to describe the Braves play of late. Bobby needs to stop playing cheerleader and start playing _ _ _ chewer-start getting in peoples faces and demanding results and compassion or send them on their way. Message to ownership; if you want a championship caliber team, then plan to spend a few more bucks this offseason to bring in the required talent to compete for a championship. Else, we will just be an average franchise that may overachieve but will never get beyond the first round of the playoffs. This year, we may win 80, more likely 75. And that is all I have to say about that.
By Tyryztoll
June 4, 2006 08:25 PM | Link to this
Cox’s team is no different at the plate than it ever has been……incredibly undisciplined hitters just hacking away with all they’ve got and hoping it flies out. Swinging at first pitches when down multiple runs, flailing aimlessly rather than working the count to get a hitters pitch or draw a free pass. Pitchers must drool when they see us on the schedule now…they know they won’t have to work hard because our undisciplined hitters will bail them out almost every time. This is the same reason we’ve only had one championship in all these years - because Bobby Cox does not demand or know anything about what it takes to manufacture runs in todays game. If you are the manager and a guy like Jeff Francouer or Adam LaRoche is hitting .230 and fanning 2 or 3 times a game consistently, then you start dictating all of his at bats from the dugout with swing and take signs and if he doesn’t like it he can GO BACK TO RICHMOND. But not Bobby…no, we’ll just wait till he goes on another home run tear instead of teaching him how to play the game correctly. As for the bullpen, it’s pretty obvious management has thrown up its hands and just doesn’t care anymore - why else would an invalid like Reeksma still be run out there night after night? And Jorge Sosa should be given his OUTRIGHT RELEASE after coming into camp so out of shape this year after they rescued him from Tampa and taught him how to pitch last year. I’m tired of seeing him trying to bring his right arm around that jiggling beer belly just so the ball can find its way up over the middle of the plate on its way into the outfield stands. Unacceptable!
By PolarBear
June 4, 2006 08:25 PM | Link to this
No Doom or Gloom here…….Put Wilson at 1st base right NOW—-get a few wins. Its contagious. Call Richmond. Changes have to be made now. Wilson MUST be in the line up everyday. Its not too late, but it sure will be soon. The talent is there. Lets rock!
By Yars
June 4, 2006 08:32 PM | Link to this
The Braves are lucky that they’re not 9 games back instead of only 6. They are lucky that the Mets aren’t playing too good right now as well. The Braves getting swept by the D’backs in a 4 games series is disappointing. That is the type of team they will face in the playoffs if there is a miracle and they do sneak in, but hovering around the .500 mark for most of the season isn’t going to get you in the playoffs. The Mets are the real deal this season. They aren’t going to disappear anytime soon. Don’t count out the Phillies either. The NL East isn’t weak anymore. If the Mets do trade for Barry Zito, then there only chance at making the playoffs is if they get the NL wildcard. I really hope that JS is working the phones right now seeing what’s out there. I love Langerhans, but he has proven that he isn’t an everyday player and his lack of power doesn’t help his cause. Matt Diaz is good as a 4th OF. Nothing more, nothing less. Francouer is too anxious at the plate, but has proved he can hit MLB pitching and does have some pop in his bat. The player I am worried most about is Chipper. He doesn’t look injured, but he’s hitting and playing at 3B as if he’s 40 years old. Perhaps he is on the downside of his career. To those who diss Todd Pratt, cut it out. He’s a backup catcher, and isn’t as bad as you make him sound. Most backup catchers are lousy, but Pratt looks like he really gives 110%. It’s time to take Jorge Sosa out of the rotation. His 2005 season was a fluke. The NL has his number now. The reason Smoltz stays in the game longer than he should is because he has no confidence in the bullpen and being the veteran he is, Bobby keeps him in. It’s time for Hudson to win 6-7 games in a row. He’s the type of pitcher that could. Wasn’t John Thomson rumored to be traded in spring training, well now that he’s healthy, I say trade him. Sosa would be better in a middle relief role, possibly as a set up man. He throws hard enough. Horacio Ramirez is hard to figure out. I still don’t know what to think of him. He’s had 2 decent starts in a row. I think his next few starts will determine his fate. Chris Reitsma should be told he is no longer the teams closer. I wouldn’t just hand it over the Ken “Death” Ray, but I would give him the opportunity. As for the bench, Brian Jordan has proved that he isn’t even a good backup 1B. He has no bat speed and has looked foolish on a lot of at bats. Pete Orr can’t hit worth a lick and his only asset is that he can pinch run. Betemit should be an everyday player at some position. He knows that, and I’m sure the front office knows that as well. He’s the only decent pinch hitter the Braves have coming off the bench. We all keep saying that it’s still early, but when will it not be early? At the all star break? On August 1? This team is far too talented to wind up not winning the NL East, or not getting the NL wildcard. I know the Mets have a good team, but not that of a good team to be capable of running away with the East. I think this team is ready to win 10 + games in a row. maybe JS will surprise us and shake things up a bit. Right now, I think our biggest problem is LF. We need a LF’er that can hit on a consistent basis and has some power. We also need to look into possibly getting another starter. I don’t see JS doing anything about the 1B problem, or the closer nightmare. There are closers available, (Baez) so it will be interesting to see what JS does before the trading deadline, if he does anything at all.
By Mad Mike
June 4, 2006 08:37 PM | Link to this
I liked my last post so much I’m posting it again…just gonna change the format a little:
**There is a poll asking the question “what’s wrong with the Braves?” on ajc.com. I chose “the bullpen” but what I really wanted to choose is “uncertainty in the organization.”
I hate that the team I love is owned by a disinterested corporation. I hate that the team I love will soon be bought by another disinterested corporation. I hate that the team I love has its games broadcast on 3 different networks regularly (4 when ESPN gets in the mix).
Ron Gant is OK; Bob Rathbun is not. Neither is Jeff Torborg. They are terrible. Go away, FOX.
Skip and Pete are unbeatable. Even if the Braves are getting smoked it’s fun to watch the game because I’m hanging out with Skip and Pete. I would rather hear Skip complain about traffic in Atlanta for an entire half inning than listen to Jeff Torborg do his best rendition of “I’m Joe Morgan and I know everything about baseball” for a whole game. So I have to mute the TV and turn on the radio.
Somebody call The Police: “I’m sending out an SOS.”**
By Jack
June 4, 2006 08:37 PM | Link to this
Position players are just going through the motion. Pitchers are throwing instead of pitching, Cox is making to many bad decisions. Seems like everyone (that includes Jeff) read their press clippings and decided that all they had to do to win was show up at the ball park WRONG. They are trying to impress the new owners in reverse.
By gobraves06
June 4, 2006 08:45 PM | Link to this
Dumping Reeksma, acquiring a good starter and a good bat, and dumping “Rally Killer” LaRoche are just a few steps that need to be made in order for the Braves to improve.
By Clydesdale
June 4, 2006 08:58 PM | Link to this
HERE’S AN IDEA.
Bring in John Smoltz, the professional excuse-maker to come up with a reason the Braves lose.
Not just his games as usual, but every game.
Here are some of his personal favorites.
By the way, the guy who thinks of himself as a Hall of Famer is 4-3 this season and the Braves are 6-6 in the games he has started.
But that doesn’t stop him from flapping his jaws on the Fox national games when the Braves are on.
By Gary L. Heckman, Sr.
June 4, 2006 08:59 PM | Link to this
There is no other way to put it. Our bullpen stinks! Reitsma and Remlinger were real good once upon a time but “Once upon a time” is the first line from a fairy tail. As far as the everyday players are concerned, it seems to me that everyone is trying to hit five-run homers. What happened to going with the pitch and moving the runners along. There are a couple of Braves that execute the plays but most of them are from the ME generation and need to learn what teamwork is. I hope there are more hungry minor league ballplayers in our system. If not, our GM had better find a diamond in the rough on the waiver wire or stretch the budget a little and make a trade for some help. Bobby needs better personnel.
By Submariner
June 4, 2006 09:03 PM | Link to this
I don’t care about winning 15 straight division titles. I want to get to AND WIN in the post-season. If the Braves don’t win the East and can get in with the wild card, and go on to the World Series, I’d be happy. Heck I’d be exstatic!
I would just like to have another world title in ATL before the dark ages come again…….and it seems that they are on the brink.
I remember when you could go down to Fulton County Stadium and get a ticket for 8 bucks and sit on the dugout, because they stunk so bad. I’m not looking forward to those days again.
By DaleMurphyJr.
June 4, 2006 09:03 PM | Link to this
Bobby and TP need to institute a new rule for Francouer: For at least three at-bats per week, Francouer will not be permitted to swing. He will either get a walk or strike out looking but at no time will he take the bat off his shoulder. He must learn some discipline! His lack of BB’s last season was funny for a minute but it’s seriously hindering his potential this year. 3 BB’s so far?! Are you kidding me!?
By stew
June 4, 2006 09:06 PM | Link to this
Think about this. We just lost 6 out of 7 to the Dodgers and D-Backs and we’re still only 6 games out. We get our five-hitter back in half a week. Let’s work Chuck James into the rotation. Don’t panic! The Mets are going to choke. The Phillies only have one pitcher. Why didn’t we bring up Salty when McCann went down just to get his feet wet. Let’s go back to the youth movement. Don’t we have better relief pitchers at Richmond and Mississippi than Reitsma and Remlinger.
By Submariner
June 4, 2006 09:15 PM | Link to this
Good thoughts Stew.
By crawlin dawg
June 4, 2006 09:17 PM | Link to this
Hmmm….
‘95. Last time we got swept at home in a four game series…..Last time we won the World Series….
It’s long season folks. At least wait til August to count them out.
By Del
June 4, 2006 09:29 PM | Link to this
Yesterday, during and just after game 3 of the Dback series I wrote several negative blogs re the Braves play and team status. Last night several of you called me an idiot, told me to shut up and look in the mirror, etc etc. No problem, I can handle that because I was only expressing my personal opinion. Today I have just read all the blogs after game 4 and find that they are 99+% negative. I also find that they covered almost exactly the same areas I covered Sat, and yet there has been no confrontation to these blogs today.
My question is: Is this because the reality of this teams performance and potential is finally sinking in and you are getting tired of telling us that it is early, or wait till the June bloom, or we’ll get it turned around, etc etc.
In any case, I’m signing off for this year. I hope only the very best things for the Braves and the coaches this year. I am looking forward to the 2007 edition. I’m also looking forward to seeing some positive changes made to our current team and their techniques. Night.
By HOP
June 4, 2006 09:47 PM | Link to this
why is everybody surprised, if the braves did not have the best management in baseball from the GM, SCOUTING AND MANAGER, THIS FALL WOULD HAVE HAPPEN MUCH SOONER!!!!!!!
ANY MAJOR LEAGUE TEAM cannot continue to let great players move to other teams without it eventually taken a toll on the team. the corporate owners of the braves, who are headquartered in new york, have cut the payroll so low that we are playing with too many inexperience players at first base, left field,relief pitching and even starting pitching.
it is hard to compete with teams who have a 120mm payroll and even higher like the mets and the braves who have a 79mm payroll simply does not add up to a contender.
the alanta market because of the pull back of the television money is now a small market franchise, welcome to the kansas city of the south and the national league.
now, we know how the marlin fans feel.
the braves cannot compete with this current financial model.
we have been fortunate that cox and company were able to be as competitive as long as we have,but now reality has set in, the braves are not going to compete without more money to get better players.
that is the bottom line!!!!!!!!
By Head Coach
June 4, 2006 09:48 PM | Link to this
Jeff , I wanted to participate in your poll but there isnt an “ALL OF THE ABOVE” category , and you left out the “COX’S MANAGEMENT STINKS” category.
By HOP
June 4, 2006 09:48 PM | Link to this
why is everybody surprised, if the braves did not have the best management in baseball from the GM, SCOUTING AND MANAGER, THIS FALL WOULD HAVE HAPPEN MUCH SOONER!!!!!!!
ANY MAJOR LEAGUE TEAM cannot continue to let great players move to other teams without it eventually taken a toll on the team. the corporate owners of the braves, who are headquartered in new york, have cut the payroll so low that we are playing with too many inexperience players at first base, left field,relief pitching and even starting pitching.
it is hard to compete with teams who have a 120mm payroll and even higher like the mets and the braves who have a 79mm payroll simply does not add up to a contender.
the alanta market because of the pull back of the television money is now a small market franchise, welcome to the kansas city of the south and the national league.
now, we know how the marlin fans feel.
the braves cannot compete with this current financial model.
we have been fortunate that cox and company were able to be as competitive as long as we have,but now reality has set in, the braves are not going to compete without more money to get better players.
that is the bottom line!!!!!!!!
By fnreitsma
June 4, 2006 09:53 PM | Link to this
as dreadful as remlinger has been for us, at least he can get guys out…on occassion. Reitsma, however, can’t. His ERA is 7.20! There’s no excuse for that. It’s not just bad luck. The guy MUST go. Obviously we can’t trade him, as no one will take him. But let’s just release him and eat his contract. His biggest contribution for us would be for him not to play.
he seems like a great guy, but pitching just isn’t his thing. not in the bigs, at least. time to send him packing.
By PA Bravefan
June 4, 2006 10:03 PM | Link to this
Too Many Things to fix this year!!! I think the ride is over. WE need dome speed at the top, more consistent power in the middle. More starting pitching, A WHOLE NEW PEN!!! Not gonna happen this year. Let’s start looking ot next year. I know we have been behind by more before, but we had GREAT starting pitching then, and Good bullpen. Barring some major trades, and callups, it is best to look at 3 years from now when teh Rome Braves Juggernaut team is ready. They have great starting pitching, Awesome young Power ath the corners with Campbell and Kaiihue. Ramirez behind the plate, who seems to have power, and average, which Salty doesn’t. They have speed at teh top. There are some potential arms of the future in teh system. Startup, Stockman, Acosta, and a few others. We need some different leadership. Hey Chipper, Get fired up like Frenchy seems ro be and kick some butts around the clubhouse. That is what a leader does!!! We need some spark now, or I m afraid it is over and for the first time in a long time, we will see the Braves unloading like th Nationals, and Marlins do every year. I am sooooo Depressed! I feel like it is the 1980’s again. Please God let something happen soon.!!!!
By Deano
June 4, 2006 10:17 PM | Link to this
Wow, a black police officer stopping the GM of the Braves at his own stadium. WHY DIDN’T YOU TURN ARROUND AND SLUG HER JOHN? SEEMS THAT IS ACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOR THESE DAYS…CORRECT. Go Braves!!
By John
June 4, 2006 10:21 PM | Link to this
Donovan Coley understands the problem . . Bobby Cox and his fear of hurting a players feelings in making a tough decision. Always makes excuses for poor performance by the team as well. His post season record shows his weakness in short series with Quality teams. Time to move on from the head coaching position. As long as Cox is in Atlanta, what you see is what you will get. Divison Championships in a very weak Division.
By Texter87
June 4, 2006 10:43 PM | Link to this
We will be all right. I don’t care who says what the Braves will be back. We will win the division. Why not? Nobody thought we would in 91, or did they. Come on folks it is only a ONE series, we have the ability and and the desire to come back and win it all. I love my team and will support them If I am the only one left in the stands and If it is the last game of the season and we are 23 games behind, I don’t care I love my Braves. GO BRAVES.
By JJ
June 4, 2006 11:03 PM | Link to this
Ok here’s the deal, just release the whole freakin bullpen. Bring up a bunch of young guys like Will Startup, Chuck “Cy” James, etc, and let the guys who really want to play get out there. Not guys like Reeksma who throws his 80 mph fastball right down the middle. Oh. Cut Jorge Sosa too.
By BO
June 4, 2006 11:04 PM | Link to this
Where are all you people that keep saying its early? That Bobby will pull them out? That Reitsma will be ok! We don’t need Baez or any other closer give “them” a chance! Well you got what you asked for. Lets see if John the book writer can gets some help and Bobby will stop playing is buddys.
By Penn
June 4, 2006 11:05 PM | Link to this
Let’s face it, the only time Francoeur has come out of his “batting slump” was against really bad pitching in Florida and Chicago. He is a major league outfielder but he’s an A class hitter, not AA, not AAA, just “A”.
In Richmond we now have 1B Thorman hitting .301 and IF Timmons hitting .316. Kevin Berry is 2-2 with a .204 ERA
In Mississippi we have Barbaro Canizares OF hitting .346 and don’t forget IF Martin Prado who has moved on to Richmond and is hitting around .400 in AAA.
Matt Wright has started 7 games in AA and is 4-2 with an ERA of .228.
Will Startup has closed for both AA and AAA and so far has been lights out.
Surely some of them can do better than what we’ve seen so far from the team we have.
Don’t sell out Ken Ray just yet. He has had two bad outings out of 26. No one is perfect. Remlinger and Reitsma should be able to say what Ray can say. Remmy is finished and Reitsma needs a new home.
By Losers
June 4, 2006 11:07 PM | Link to this
Look at the bright side folks, this year the Braves won’t pee their pants in the playoffs. Bottom line, they have always been LOSERS and it starts at the top and flows down hill (like the brown stuff).
By #1 Reitsma Fan
June 4, 2006 11:09 PM | Link to this
Chris Reitsma is A GREAT PITCHER. He is just going through a rough period. All pitchers have 7.00+ ERA at some point in their career. Instead of jumping all over him, the real Braves fans should show him compassion. Bobby Cox is doing the right thing by having him pitch through this slump. Don’t worry Reits, there are still some of that have faith in you. Reitsa will be an All-Star closer in 2007!
By #1 Reitsma Fan
June 4, 2006 11:10 PM | Link to this
Chris Reitsma is A GREAT PITCHER. He is just going through a rough period. All pitchers have 7.00+ ERA at some point in their career. Instead of jumping all over him, the real Braves fans should show him compassion. Bobby Cox is doing the right thing by having him pitch through this slump. Don’t worry Reits, there are still some us of that have faith in you. Reitsma will be an All-Star closer in 2007!
By Losers
June 4, 2006 11:10 PM | Link to this
Even on the ‘roids they can not win. So sad, is GrandPa Cox ready for pasture??? He should have been put down long ago.
By Ben
June 4, 2006 11:14 PM | Link to this
Seems that the Press cannot find anything good to talk about the Braves other than bragging on Bobby Cox.
If he is good as the press claims him to be then why doesn’t the Braves have a better year than they are having. He’s like every other manager, if he doesn’t have the Players that can produce.
By JOHN
June 4, 2006 11:16 PM | Link to this
LETS GET SKIP AND PETE ON TV REGULAR.I GET TIRED OF ALL THE LIP FARTING BY DON AND THE OTHERS. LET US HEAR SOME GOOD PLAY BY PLAY WITH SKIP AND PETE.
By Chuckles
June 4, 2006 11:16 PM | Link to this
1 Reitsma Fan…please give me some of what you’re smokin’, must be some really good stuff…By Hater
June 4, 2006 11:22 PM | Link to this
Did you see that ???? Reitsma just gave up another gopher …. Time to retire Chris while you have a little dignity left.
By Penn
June 4, 2006 11:22 PM | Link to this
By Chuckles
“June 4, 2006 11:16 PM | Link to this
1 Reitsma Fan…please give me some of what you’re smokin’, must be some really good stuff…”
Well said Chuckles. I wonder who Reitsma will represent in the 2007 All-Star game.
By Gary
June 4, 2006 11:26 PM | Link to this
Everything is going accordingly, the Atlanta Braves will win their 15th consecutive division title by 4 games over the Phillies.
By Real Fan
June 4, 2006 11:28 PM | Link to this
The Braves have won their division a few more years than they should have, and now the wheels are coming off. This is just the result of crummy corporate ownership that doesn’t care about the sport or the fans. Bobby and John aren’t given the money to do what needs to be done to produce a winning team, and things won’t get better with another corporate owner that’s only taking the team in order to get a tax break
By Hater
June 4, 2006 11:31 PM | Link to this
I would not spend another dime on this sinking ship. You may be able to justify throwing a life jacket to maybe two or three but the rest should just be left to drowned.
By Head Coach
June 4, 2006 11:31 PM | Link to this
Dear #1 Moron Reitsma fan , I’m trying to type , but I cant stop laughing at you , Laughing my a$$ off at you , falling down laughing , just blew a gasket laughing at you , hardy har har har har ……. LOL.
By michael
June 4, 2006 11:38 PM | Link to this
Where is the optimism? We have ‘em right where we want ‘em, just like in 1991. One game under .500 and 6 back! No problem. Lot of baseball to play.
By michael
June 4, 2006 11:40 PM | Link to this
Where is the optimism? We have ‘em right where we want ‘em, just like in 1991. One game under .500 and 6 back! No problem. Lot of baseball to play.
By #1 Reitsma Fan
June 4, 2006 11:40 PM | Link to this
Laugh all you guys want. But I will be the one laughing at YOU when Reitsma saves 30-40 games next year. Wait till he gets his sinker going again, he is going to freeze hitters. Not to mention he can hold runners on anytime with his nice slide step move.
By Sophia
June 4, 2006 11:43 PM | Link to this
The Braves can’t wait till 2007 for Reitsma to be an All-Star closer. He’s just not closer material. Maybe as a set-up man, but even that I think is impossible now. He’s showing no signs of improvement and I think it’s time to move on. I’m usually a patient person but this is just frustrating!
By Hater
June 4, 2006 11:43 PM | Link to this
Too bad he will performing all that magic in Class A ball where he belongs. He is just a run-of-the-mill mop-up man. Face it.
By Anti-Homer
June 4, 2006 11:46 PM | Link to this
Maybe he could be the Royals closer …. They are always looking for other teams castoffs. Go home Yankee …
By JJMB
June 4, 2006 11:48 PM | Link to this
I have enjoyed Pete and Skip this weekend. Joe is my personal favorite, as he is less of a “company man” i.e. less of a corporate whore.
Sutton and Chip can go away forever, I’d be happy.
I like Bob Torborg. He has a fresh perspective, intelligent, former mlb catcher and manager, great resumé.
By Jeffrey
June 4, 2006 11:49 PM | Link to this
Well we all knew it had to end sometime. I thought we were finished 2 years ago but we somehow squeezed out 2 more titles.
Thanks Chipper for the good years but it is evident that you are sliding toward retirement. Why not agree to a trade to the AL (Texas maybe) where you can DH? Thank you John Smoltz for all the loyalty and leadership. How about taking one more for the team and agree to a trade to Detroit for copius prospects? You are now in the same spot Doyle Alexander was when we got you.
The Braves must get a true leadoff hitter and an entirely new bullpen. I have a distinct feeling that in 2007, we will hardly recognize anything about the Braves that we have come to known.
By Anti-Homer
June 4, 2006 11:50 PM | Link to this
My god …. It would be better if the Braves games were called by mimes. These have got to be the most boring and stupid commentators in the league. I think my five year old knows more about baseball than the whole bunch put together. More personality too …
By Jimbo
June 5, 2006 12:01 AM | Link to this
The Roach says they should all look in the mirror. Good idea, you look first and when you look into your own eyes and you will see what everyone else does…no one’s home.
Frenchy when you look you will see a clown flailing away at everything and anything. Maybe you should stop trying to hit balls to Europe and try just making contact.
Giles when you look you will see a midget second baseman who thinks he is a homerun hitter. Your swing is a joke.
Reeksma when you look you will break the mirror. Be careful.
I’m going to miss those TV shots in the dugout of Bobby picking his nose while the team and the game go down the toilet. You and your coaches are responsible for a very fundamentally challenged team. Please, someone teach them how to play the game.
By otis nixon
June 5, 2006 12:16 AM | Link to this
Chris Reitsma, is that you posting on here under #1 Chris Reitsma fan? The only time Reitsma freezes batters is when they freeze for a second to admire their homeruns.
By Dirty Dawg
June 5, 2006 12:18 AM | Link to this
Nothing wrong with Torborg and Rathburn…Torborg knows the game and knows the people…and he’ll tell it like it is. Which is something that Skip and Pete will never do. Hell, Franceour’s not just ‘pressing’…and he’s not just being aggresive…he’s being stupid and somebody needs to say it - on the air.
By #1 Reitsma Fan
June 5, 2006 12:21 AM | Link to this
That’s Fine. Make fun of Reitsma all that you want. Believe it or not, he’s got people out there that support and believe that he is still a great pitcher. If he wasn’t talented, why would Bobby Cox, who has won 14 straight Division Titles, keep sending him out there?
By gotigers72
June 5, 2006 12:22 AM | Link to this
For stew; Yes the Braves have better relief pitchers in the minors than some on the major league staff.
Check out these numbers on Phil Stockman, between Mississippi and Richmond this year.
Innings pitched=35.0 Hits=9 Runs [Earned and Unearned]=3 Walks=12 Strikeouts=49 9 FREAKIN’ Hits all year, 3 FREAKIN’ Runs all year, and 49 strikeouts in 35 innings [over 12 per every 9 innings.] I’m no math major, but that tells me he has a WHIP and an ERA below 1.00. Why ain’t this guy in the majors with the bullpen problems we have?
By Dirty Dog
June 5, 2006 12:42 AM | Link to this
The braves are playing possum they going to win it all. 2006 world champions , Boby wiil make these boys into the greatest team on the planet you just wait and see. they are a dominant baseball team reitsma will save 50 games this season. smoltz will win the cy young chipper will be mvp. all you band wagon fools can get off right now.
By kwadwo
June 5, 2006 01:01 AM | Link to this
To the #1 Reitsma fan…give me a break! This guy has been getting by on projected potential all this time, but hey, look on the bright side, this isn’t all his fault. I look at guys like Giles (CAN SOMEBODY PLEASE TELL THIS CAT HE CAN’T HIT THE HIGH HEAT!!!It is the worst kept secret in baseball)who can’t get on base. Andrew who refuses to exorcise his awful batting habits and for pete’s sake get Thompson back to the minors! Enough with the team meetings and “aw shuck man we just suck.” It is now put up or shut up time. Man up or lay down like them folks in Kansas City. Then atleast those of us who really cheer you on can spend the rest of our summer thinking about them good ol days when it meant something to wear that uniform.
By teoa
June 5, 2006 01:04 AM | Link to this
Clydesdale, it’s ridiculous to put any of the blame for this disaster of a team on John Smoltz. A case can be made that just about everyone else on the Braves is underachieving, but Smoltz has proven himself to be a winner more than any other player during the run. Do you realize that you’re calling THE WINNINGEST PITCHER IN POST SEASON HISTORY an “excuse maker”? I don’t think Smoltz needs any excuses — that’s as stand up as it gets in my book to be the best in history. I hope you were ignorant to that fact.
Also, everyone knows Smoltz win-loss record provides absolutely no indication of how well he has pitched. Without 4 blow saves behind him already this year, Smoltz would be 8-3 and right at the top of the league. Just like he would have won 20 last year without last year’s version of the Time Warner penny-pinching bullpen joke. And that doesn’t even begin to account for all the gutsy performances — pitching on 3 days rest with the arm problems, laying his career on the line for this team, while supposed “aces” like Pedro Martinez manage to risk themselves for 5 innings once a week.
Seriously, do you honestly not think Reitsma deserves any of the blame for that 6-6 record you cited in Smoltz’ starts? It’s Smoltz fault that the Braves have the worst closer in history and Bobby Cox refuses to make a change? Or do you just expect him to go 9 every start? If you don’t think John Smoltz has been good for the team, you really shouldn’t be a Braves fan. You obviously don’t know anything about baseball, so why bother?
By Chipper
June 5, 2006 01:21 AM | Link to this
This team needs a shake-up. Pitchers throwing fastballs down the middle and hitters in game-on-the-line situations hitting at the first pitch 1-foot out of the strike zone need to go. Send Sosa, Reitsma and Franceour to Richmond, bring up three replacements who know how to play the game, they couldn’t be any worse! Put Betemit on second and batting first and send Giles to the bench.
By Dave
June 5, 2006 01:36 AM | Link to this
Doubleheader loss to Diamondbacks.
Four game series sweep at home.
13-0 loss where the other team stopped trying to score runs.
Scads of strikeouts.
Numbskull baserunning and fielding.
Erratic starting pitching.
An attitude that baseball is a job, not an adventure.
Reitsma’s born losers in the bullpen.
Letting a washed up 36 year old bench player become Babe Ruth.
I am so ashamed of this dreadful team. Why are they getting humiliated so often? Is it coaching? Attitude? Fundamentals? Intangibles? Talent? Chemistry? What is it?
I’ve been a Braves fan since Milwaukee. All I ask is effort. I remember the 1974 team that stopped the Red’s pennant chase, the 1978 team that stopped Pete Rose’s hitting streak, and the 1972 team that ended Steve Carlton’s long winning streak. None of those teams were world beaters. Pride is pride. Effort is effort. These slugs have all the money in the world, but they don’t appreciate a thing. I’d be ashamed to give the effort at work that these guys put forth this weekend. I live in Arizona, and I’m so sick of making the Diamondbacks lok like the 1927 Yankees. You said it, “they ain’t Godzilla.”
Keep telling it like it is. These guys are the absolute pits.
By Chuckles
June 5, 2006 02:30 AM | Link to this
Well folks - it’s looking like 1994.
Anyone remember anything about 1994 except for The Strike?
We were on our way to being waxed by the Montreal Expos who, if fate hadn’t stepped in and saved the Braves, would have had a great chance to win the NE East.
They Had Pedro. They had a good bullpen. They had good defense (and Vlad), and timely hitting, team speed, power… All things we lack.
The loss of Brian McCann exposed our team weaknesses. We need a left fielder that can hit with power, a 1st baseman that can hit with power, and a bullpen that would allow Bobby to come in & relieve starters who would be piching better is they thought they could pitch knowing they would not have to throw a 5 hit 2 run 8 inning game every time out.
As for the lack of wins by Smoltz - give me a break! Ask Oscar ‘steal-a-win’ Villareal or ‘Blown save’ Reitsma about the 3-4 wins Smoltzie would have if we had a freakin’ bullpen.
The problem? We won’t get diddly squat in a trade ‘cause the rest of baseball is not gonna trade quality to John S. They know we’re vulnerable, and they like that. Is it jealosy, or fear of giving the Braves another Fred McGriff trade that could make them formidable? Plus, 2/3 or the teams in baseball are still in striking distance of the playoffs with that dang wildcard, so there won’t be any firesales we can take advantage of until it would be too late.
Face it folks: unless Bobby & John can come up with a magic combination using the minors or a deal with some team that’s out of it in the AL, we’re goners this year.
The streak could very well be over.
By PoliticalMan
June 5, 2006 04:40 AM | Link to this
It looks like the smoke and mirrors act is crashing. Maybe relief pitchers aren’t a dime a dozen after all - that’s what John S. thinks. Maybe the genuises aren’t after all.
By Brian Head
June 5, 2006 04:45 AM | Link to this
What really stinks is the attitude of some of the so-called fans who understand very little, only wanting to win. The poll is ill-conceived: first, because it gives fans who are generally ignorant of the game a chance just to sound off, not contributing anything at all to a) an understanting of the problems, nor b) much-needed support for the team; second, because it isolates the factors, which —along with others not even mentioned — form a complex combination. Just because the Braves were 1 win and 6 losses in the recent home-stand is no reason for true alarm. Most fans are not serious students of the game, most have only a gut-reaction. These blogs are generally worthless and regretable. As a fan of baseball in Atlanta for more than 60 years, I very much look forward to my next visit there, when I will attend some games and them. Oh, yes: it is likely (perhaps not a certainty, but likely) that the Braves will have things together and be playing well by then, in September. It is long season; B. Cox understands this, even when some fans do not. Brian F. Head, sent from Braga, Portugal
By bubba9000
June 5, 2006 05:58 AM | Link to this
No matter how hard they play, homerun streaks, hitting streaks, batting slumps, slow starting pitching, nobody can win with a bullpen like this. Not even the Big Red Machine of the 70’s. Just look at the Chicago Cubs game, where they had to go into extra innings and won 13-12. The bullpen has lost over 11 games. But I think John Shurtzoltz hands is tied with the pending sales of the team and speculation about new ownership.
We need a true baseball fan, that loves Atlanta and the Braves like most of our fans.
By Tim
June 5, 2006 06:04 AM | Link to this
With all due respect to Mr. Head, fans have a right to be upset and we are use to winning and there is nothing wrong with that. The problem is how we are losing and who we are losing to. We can’t beat good teams because the bullpen is terrible. We have had problems before, but never on this level. I literally get sick to my stomach when ANYBODY(even Death Ray) comes in from the bullpen and I’m sick of Laroche striking out on what is seemingly the same inside pitch whenever he come up with men on. Giles won’t get fastballs cause Furcal isn’t on base so goodbye 50 doubles, Wilson is wasting away on the bench, and PETE ORR is still on the roster!!! Surely there must be help from Richmond or hell, even Mississippi. The problem is the make up of the team which seems to be obvious. I hope, but don’t think that a magic flip will be turned on and we will just start winning. Maybe Bobby will find some magic, but ……………. Tim in Mannheim Germany
By KneeJerk
June 5, 2006 07:02 AM | Link to this
It’s June 5. We’re 6 games back. When something happens 14 times in a row, I’m not going to bet against it from happening the 15th time until it’s mathematically impossible. One bad week by NYM and good week by the Braves, and we’re just about even. Get your panties out of a bunch. We are going through a rough stretch right now, but it’s a long season. Can’t believe people want to get rid of Cox. Someone actually called us the NL’s version of KC. Lots of common sense there. About the ‘94 Expos; nice team, but with flaws. And Vlad was in the Gulf Coast league in that year, not with the big club. Be patient Chicken Littles, we are barely at the one-third point.
By King 3-B
June 5, 2006 07:21 AM | Link to this
It will be allright
By Carroll
June 5, 2006 07:22 AM | Link to this
In regards to the poll about what’s wrong with the Braves, let me just ask: are you friggin serious??!! Is this even debatablwe?! I’ve been saying since the preseasont hat Reeksma and his clown cronies would be the undoing of this otherwise decent team. They have blown 12 of 25 saves (not to mention other times where the game as close before they blew it, i.e. Saturday night). If you take away just HALF of thoise blown saves, guess what?
By Carroll
June 5, 2006 07:26 AM | Link to this
…we’d be in first place right now!!!
By Sambo
June 5, 2006 07:31 AM | Link to this
With the exception of Smoltz, Hudson, Ramirez, Renteria, Andruw, Francouer, & McCann, everyone else - including Chipper Jones, would be available in a trade.
This is a team in decline. Too much of the payroll is tied up in just 5 players - Smoltz, Andruw, Chipper, Hudson & Hampston. Somebody needs to go.
By Carol
June 5, 2006 07:33 AM | Link to this
Hey you fairweather Brave fans, don’t you all know that the Braves do this every year during the first half of the season. so give them a break and stop criticizing and start supporting them when they are bad and when they are good. Learn how to support your teams, then maybe, just maybe they will give you some satisfaction. Root for the home team all the time. If you’re not going to be a real fan just shut up!
By geechee
June 5, 2006 07:48 AM | Link to this
Take heart sports fans, The Dogs kick off in just 88 days.
By Nick
June 5, 2006 08:01 AM | Link to this
The Braves were not good from the start of training camp!! They didn’t do anything during free agency to strengthen there starting rotation or bullpen. Sosa is not a starter, at best he is a bullpen pitcher!! Smoltz and Hudson are our best pitchers but they get rocked just as much as Sosa at times. All we as fans can do is wait until a new owner (that is not afraid to spend some money). This cut the budget every season is not working!!! OH!! What happen to our baby Braves!! They are not everyday players!!! I guess everyone sees that now!!!
By Nick
June 5, 2006 08:02 AM | Link to this
The Braves were not good from the start of training camp!! They didn’t do anything during free agency to strengthen there starting rotation or bullpen. Sosa is not a starter, at best he is a bullpen pitcher!! Smoltz and Hudson are our best pitchers but they get rocked just as much as Sosa at times. All we as fans can do is wait until a new owner (that is not afraid to spend some money). This cut the budget every season is not working!!! OH!! What happen to our baby Braves!! They are not everyday players!!! I guess everyone sees that now!!!
By Mart
June 5, 2006 08:04 AM | Link to this
(1) Stop blaming Reitsma, he is who he is—a lousy pitcher. (2) Start blaming Cox for insisting on putting him out there. (3) Accept that since he got off steroids C. Jones has absolutely no pop in his bat. He’s a slightly better version of Sean Burroughs. … Turn out the liiigghtts the paaarrtiiees over.
By john
June 5, 2006 08:16 AM | Link to this
A below average pitching staff (What happened to savior Hudson? How’s Glavine doing?), no closer has yet to surface and no lead-off hitter (Gilly’s a good ball player, but no lead-off hitter) all result in what you see before you: a sub-500 ball club.
By Lewis
June 5, 2006 08:16 AM | Link to this
The Braves are being hurt by 3 players. Francour swings at everything, killing rallies, chipper looks like he could really not give a rip when he’s at the plate, and Reitsma looks like a deer in the headlights when he takes the mound. Hey Jeff , because they throw it near the plate ,does not mean you have to swing at it. Chipper call your Dad. and Chris , grow a Fu man Chu, a scowl, throw at sombodies head. They are not scared of you
By Andrew
June 5, 2006 08:29 AM | Link to this
Enough IS enough!!! Cox has had his day and we need some NEW blood. This “loyalty” to players has cost us game after game after game…This IS the Major leagues, bring in some kids from AAA or wherever to infuse NEW life in this DEAD bullpen! The R&R boys (Reitsma & Remlinger) are has beens. Time to MOVE ON in the Braves management & players! PLEEEEEAAAASSSEEEEE!!
By Kelvin
June 5, 2006 08:32 AM | Link to this
The Braves really sucks about now. I don’t see them challenging the Mets nor the Phillies this year. Get a BULLPEN
By deb
June 5, 2006 08:34 AM | Link to this
The Mets are going to choke?
They have a MLB best record in one run games and last at bat wins.
Maybe counting on the Mets to choke is like the Braves having a quality closer?
By peter
June 5, 2006 08:35 AM | Link to this
I was at the Suday game, and I have been watching all season long, and many things have really seemed to be verious obvious.
lack of emotions and hustle………I sat 3 rows back and about 8’ from the on deck cicrle for the Braves, great seats………it seems all are just going through the motions. Seems like Adam LaRoche’s over all cool relaxed attitude has taken over and he is the new team leader for slow play, and get there when you can. Pete Rose would never play the game as the Breaves are. I do not fault Bobby Cox, even though he is a cool customer, he is not playing the game!
mental errors…….I saw so many missed cut off throws, jogging for balls in the out field, that Arizona turned into doubles when a close play may have gotten the runner out.
That also counts for pitching……how many 0-2 counts that turned into big hits…..our pitchers are not thinking, or wasting pitches…..what happened to not giving in to the hitter?
Yes our pitching is not great, but we have hurt them by the errors, which have allowed bad innings to really go VERY bad, thus we have almost taken ourselves out of games because of one inning.
I think the tallent is there to compete, maybe not win it all, but hey we have only done that once in the 14 year run…….but I think these guys are making their big money, and not putting out the efforts before cashing the big pay check!
Lastly, we have paid big money for pitching, and then we get cheap on the pitching coach, thus he leaves, also Terry Pendleton, may be a great guy, but I don’t see the results at the plate.
By Deano
June 5, 2006 08:42 AM | Link to this
Wow, a black police officer stopping the GM of the Braves at his own stadium. WHY DIDN’T YOU TURN ARROUND AND SLUG HER JOHN? SEEMS THAT IS ACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOR THESE DAYS…CORRECT. Go Braves!!
By Kenneth Simpson
June 5, 2006 08:44 AM | Link to this
If all the teams the braves play use a pitcher that the braves have never seen they would never win another game. They strike out too much and will swing at anything even pitches in the dirt.
By BP
June 5, 2006 08:56 AM | Link to this
The bullpen’s hideousness is hiding the fact that this team is getting nothing from 2/3 of its outfield.
Langerhans has had his chance…he’s not a regular. Give Diaz a shot or let’s get some help. Surely there is an inexpensive veteran OF around that could exceed Langerhans production.
And Francoeur…in interviews I’ve heard he seems to think his swinging at everything is funny. It isn’t. It is killing this offense. He’s young. In time he’ll be fine. But right now he is an Out Machine.
By Drew
June 5, 2006 08:58 AM | Link to this
Who cares anymore? The Braves, including management are spoiled. When John Rocker made those discriminating comments years ago about certain groups he was quickly shipped off to Timbukto. Yet, when good ole’ Christian and Atlanta icon John Smoltz compared allowing gays to marry to allowing people to marry animals, the team did nothing but look the other way. In fact, the city legislature recently honored Smoltz for his “caring” ways. In Atlanta, Smoltz can do no wrong. So, let the city cheer him on as he and the rest of the team goe down in flames…yeah, that’s a fitting analogy. I wish Nashville had a team…
By Drew
June 5, 2006 08:59 AM | Link to this
Who cares anymore? The Braves, including management are spoiled. When John Rocker made those discriminating comments years ago about certain groups he was quickly shipped off to Timbukto. Yet, when good ole’ Christian and Atlanta icon John Smoltz compared allowing gays to marry to allowing people to marry animals, the team did nothing but look the other way. In fact, the city legislature recently honored Smoltz for his “caring” ways. In Atlanta, Smoltz can do no wrong. So, let the city cheer him on as he and the rest of the team goe down in flames…yeah, that’s a fitting analogy. I wish Nashville had a team…
By Drew
June 5, 2006 08:59 AM | Link to this
Who cares anymore? The Braves, including management are spoiled. When John Rocker made those discriminating comments years ago about certain groups he was quickly shipped off to Timbukto. Yet, when good ole’ Christian and Atlanta icon John Smoltz compared allowing gays to marry to allowing people to marry animals, the team did nothing but look the other way. In fact, the city legislature recently honored Smoltz for his “caring” ways. In Atlanta, Smoltz can do no wrong. So, let the city cheer him on as he and the rest of the team go down in flames…yeah, that’s a fitting analogy. I wish Nashville had a team…
By Cle
June 5, 2006 08:59 AM | Link to this
I read through these and see alot of Braves ragging. It is only the 1st week of June and the Braves can easily erase 6 games. It wasn’t too long ago we were 10 back and cut it down to 3.5 in a short period. We did that and we aren’t playing Braves ball yet. We will contend to the end this year and this IS the year we(JS) will make a deadline move. As for Nathan above saying if the Braves make the playoffs he’ll call Cox the supreme ruler and if they don’t he’ll say he told us so. You’re really going out on a limb. You’re making it so you win either way. I say the Braves will be a team to challenge anyone, they haven’t won 14 straight by hanging it up this early. It is all you negative neysayers who only go to Turner field and support the guys in the World series. If Braves fans would come out every game and show your support, we might pick it up. I live 5 hours away and I(at least 20 times) over the last few years, have driven 5 hours, supported my team, driven home that night 5 more hours so I could make it to work. Support your team, stop downing them every chance you get and this year will make it 15! GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!!
By Texter87
June 5, 2006 09:02 AM | Link to this
Take it easy folks! We are only 6 games back, it is not like we lost everything. The Braves will be back win the division.
By Cle
June 5, 2006 09:02 AM | Link to this
I read through these and see alot of Braves ragging. It is only the 1st week of June and the Braves can easily erase 6 games. It wasn’t too long ago we were 10 back and cut it down to 3.5 in a short period. We did that and we aren’t playing Braves ball yet. We will contend to the end this year and this IS the year we(JS) will make a deadline move. As for Nathan above saying if the Braves make the playoffs he’ll call Cox the supreme ruler and if they don’t he’ll say he told us so. You’re really going out on a limb. You’re making it so you win either way. I say the Braves will be a team to challenge anyone, they haven’t won 14 straight by hanging it up this early. It is all you negative neysayers who only go to Turner field and support the guys in the World series. If Braves fans would come out every game and show your support, we might pick it up. I live 5 hours away and I(at least 20 times) over the last few years, have driven 5 hours, supported my team, driven home that night 5 more hours so I could make it to work. Support your team, stop downing them every chance you get and this year will make it 15! GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!!
By Cle
June 5, 2006 09:03 AM | Link to this
I read through these and see alot of Braves ragging. It is only the 1st week of June and the Braves can easily erase 6 games. It wasn’t too long ago we were 10 back and cut it down to 3.5 in a short period. We did that and we aren’t playing Braves ball yet. We will contend to the end this year and this IS the year we(JS) will make a deadline move. As for Nathan above saying if the Braves make the playoffs he’ll call Cox the supreme ruler and if they don’t he’ll say he told us so. You’re really going out on a limb. You’re making it so you win either way. I say the Braves will be a team to challenge anyone, they haven’t won 14 straight by hanging it up this early. It is all you negative neysayers who only go to Turner field and support the guys in the World series. If Braves fans would come out every game and show your support, we might pick it up. I live 5 hours away and I(at least 20 times) over the last few years, have driven 5 hours, supported my team, driven home that night 5 more hours so I could make it to work. Support your team, stop downing them every chance you get and this year will make it 15! GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!!
By Texter87
June 5, 2006 09:04 AM | Link to this
Take it easy folks! We are only 6 games back, it is not like we lost everything. The Braves will be back to win the division.
By Cle
June 5, 2006 09:04 AM | Link to this
I read through these and see alot of Braves ragging. It is only the 1st week of June and the Braves can easily erase 6 games. It wasn’t too long ago we were 10 back and cut it down to 3.5 in a short period. We did that and we aren’t playing Braves ball yet. We will contend to the end this year and this IS the year we(JS) will make a deadline move. As for Nathan above saying if the Braves make the playoffs he’ll call Cox the supreme ruler and if they don’t he’ll say he told us so. You’re really going out on a limb. You’re making it so you win either way. I say the Braves will be a team to challenge anyone, they haven’t won 14 straight by hanging it up this early. It is all you negative neysayers who only go to Turner field and support the guys in the World series. If Braves fans would come out every game and show your support, we might pick it up. I live 5 hours away and I(at least 20 times) over the last few years, have driven 5 hours, supported my team, driven home that night 5 more hours so I could make it to work. Support your team, stop downing them every chance you get and this year will make it 15! GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!!
By Vonshawn
June 5, 2006 09:07 AM | Link to this
Hey, fan above with the rose-colored glasses on. 95% of us in here support this team and will continue to support them long after the run is “officially” over. However, you have to call a spade a spade, this is NOT a good baseball team. I don’t care what they did last year; last year was a different dynamic. This year’s version of the Braves are not fundamentally sound, cannot hit consistently; cannot pitch consistently; and have inferior, yes inferior talent to at least two of the teams in the NL East and several teams throughout all of baseball. And we have seen so far, is what it’s going to be the rest of the year. And unless both the Mets and Phillies just absolutely implode, we can forget about the playoffs this year. A better goal might be finishing ahead of Washington and Florida in the standings.
By mtc
June 5, 2006 09:14 AM | Link to this
Let’s look at something for a second. Everyone knows that Reitsma has been horrible and only slightly better than most of the other bullpen guys. So what do the braves do? They keep Reitsma and send down Lance Cormier, a guy that if you throw out one bad day (his first day off the DL) and one day where our friend Reitsma gave up some of his runs he has a 2.84 ERA. 2.84!!! Genius.
By uga4ever
June 5, 2006 09:14 AM | Link to this
(T. Moore column’s blog timed out)“His selflessness caused him to agree to the second-worst move in the history of Georgia sports (topped only by D.J. Shockley’s decision to spend four years as a backup quarterback at UGA) when he spent those 2 1/2 years in left field.” Comments like this is what continues to make you a joke…that along with your “reverse race card actions” I would hardly say DJ decision to stay at UGA would rank #1 in the history of Georgia sports. I can name so many more bad moves in Georgia history. The move by DJ was one of the best, especially for UGA. He led UGA to another SEC title. HOW IS THAT A BAD MOVE FOR THE STATE. Nevermind, I forget you are Terrence Moore. He did one of the most self-less acts in Georgia history. Because he didn’t leave for his personal gain…… that makes it a bad move. Just like Chipper, his move to left was a self-less act. You didn’t like it… because it hurt his personal gain. TERRENCE, YOU ARE A SELFISH RACIST AND ALWAYS WILL BE. YOU THINK THAT THESE TWO ACTS OF UNSELFISHNESS ARE THE TWO WORST MISTAKES IN GEORGIA HISTORY. WELL, I THINK THEY ARE TWO OF THE GREATEST. SPORTS, IN GENERAL, NEED MORE UNSELFISH PLAYERS……….LIKE THESE TWO. YOU ARE A JOKE, BUT THANKS TO AJC… YOU STILL GET TO PUBLISH COLUMNS.
By wayne
June 5, 2006 09:21 AM | Link to this
What’s Juan Berenger up do now-a-days?? That guy was awsome!
By LD
June 5, 2006 09:23 AM | Link to this
Go Dodgers!!
Go Dodgers!!
Go Dodgers!!
The Braves need new coaching. 15 divisions and only one ring? Not a great team, just a great record. Too bad, with all the talent they’ve had come through the organization. This club could have had at least 5 or 6 World Series titles by now.
One thing has been constant. Bobby Cox. That’s where the change needs to start.
By scott
June 5, 2006 09:26 AM | Link to this
bring on the falcons so that we have something else to cry about .the brave are losing because there was no money spent to get the right player .we all new that they would suck this year and mabe many more years to come .it just to bad that thier being sold to another owner who want care if they win or not .i alway be a brave fan it just to bad the brave deserve better.
By Blaster
June 5, 2006 09:32 AM | Link to this
Being from Sulphur, Louisiana probably explains why John Thompson’s pitching stinks.
By KoKo
June 5, 2006 09:41 AM | Link to this
Ditto to teoa Clydesdale, you sure took up a lot of space to “hate” Smoltz - it would be simple if all the problems were his, but I don’t think his back is strong enough to carry the load!! You surely aren’t narrow-minded enough to believe what you wrote.
By Dewaine
June 5, 2006 09:42 AM | Link to this
Sorry, Braves fans, but we cannot effectively change things until we have an owner who cares about the team. When we do, we should go for speed and power. First off, trade or platoon Chipper with Betemit at third. Keep LaRoche since I think he has learned his lesson about being too easy-going. Trade Andruw or Chipper for Soriano so we may have a good lead-off hitter. Trade Giles since we would have Soriano at second. To sum it up, you would have LaRoche at first, Soriano at second, Renteria at short, Betemit at third, Francouer at right, and Langerhans at left. Kelly Johnson is coming up soon and we can let him play centerfield. You also know that we would always need McCann as our catcher.
By h_charles
June 5, 2006 09:47 AM | Link to this
It is not the coaching. It boils down simply to talent. The Braves don’t have enough. When you consistently cut payroll year after year, eventually it will catch up to you. Our coaching staff and GM should be praised for keeping the Braves winners as long as they have. People need to realize that last year was a miracle. This team has not been very good for quite a while now. Our roster pales in comparison to the true winners in this league — Cards, Mets, Dodgers. We simply don’t match up. So if everything goes right, perhaps we can sneak into the playoffs like last year. When even a few things go wrong, however, we just don’t have the talent to absorb the blows. Scary thing is it is only going to get worse under new ownership.
By braves fan
June 5, 2006 09:54 AM | Link to this
Some changes that could be made: 1)Move Renteria up to the leadoff spot. The guy is hitting .323 with a .404 on-base %, that leads the team among regulars. Then move Chipper up to the two spot, since his power has declined, but he still gets on base with a .392 OBP. Then put McCann in the three hole when he comes of the DL. He was leading the league in hitting, has a .399 OBP and leads the Braves in slugging at .554. That means he’s been their best hitter by any measure. Then Andruw at cleanup, Giles, LaRoche, Francoeur, Langerhans, pitcher. Giles can be a productive hitter, but the leadoff spot just aint working out for him. Get that pressure off his shoulders.
2) Move Jorge Sosa out of the rotation and insert Chuck James. He should be sufficiently stretched out from his stint in Richmond by now.
3) Reitsma has got to go. Maybe he can just be the long relief, mop up guy. But he can’t be allowed to pitch in a close game anymore. That’s demoralizing the team.
4) Call up any reliever from the minors who has shown some success. The Braves made a big move one year, calling up 3 relievers and demoting 3 relievers all in one move. The move worked. Time to make a drastic bullpen move. I like Ray, McBride and Remlinger, if he’s not overused. Other than that, anyone is fair game to be demoted, Sosa included.
5) Get Wilson Betemit more at bats. He should be starting every 3 out of 5 games at one position or another, at 2B or 1B. Renteria and Chipper get on base enough that they deserve to play every day. But Giles and LaRoche are so streaky and strikeout way too much to get a lion’s share of at bats.
6) Pete Orr should be demoted and bring Martin Prado back up and see what he can do.
By KneeJerk
June 5, 2006 09:56 AM | Link to this
yeah LD, fire Bobby Cox. He strikes out too much, leaves the ball in the middle of the plate, and has the best bullpen in baseball. Seriously, there is no better manager in baseball. How many playoff GAMES did Joe Torre win before he met up with Steinbrenner and his endless funds? To say that the one constant the Braves have had the last 15 years is Cox, so he needs to go is funny. Brink back Eddie Haas, Russ Nixon, Chuck Tanner. McMurtry can start on Opening day. Yeah I long for the good ole days when bringing in a guy like Darryl Motley in mid-season was a splash. How lucky we were to get Damaso Garcia from the Blue Jays. I could go on forever about the 80’s Braves. We are SPOILED. we’re 6 games back with over 100 to go and we’re whining. Baseball is a long season. We had a bad WEEK!
By JOHN B.
June 5, 2006 09:56 AM | Link to this
This team has two major problems.
The bullpen could be decent if used correctly. Reitsma just needs to go though. And the braves need to bring in one more solid reliever with the money they saved from Chipper’s contract.
This team is not as bad as they have played. Cox just needs to light a fire under their a*******es. But he has never been one to do that. Maybe it’s time he changes or the Braves should make a change. Cox is still be a players’ manager, but just light a fire when one is needed. And yes, one is needed now!!
By stumpjumper
June 5, 2006 09:57 AM | Link to this
As a Brave’s fan for 40 years lets just say; Luck has run out! Division winners for a number of those thirteen years was due to playing weaker teams, then with a lady luck on our side got to the playoffs only to lose to major league quality players. Sorry bout that for you newer fans.
By RRGtiGRR
June 5, 2006 10:00 AM | Link to this
I have been a Braves fan since ‘72. I agree that we need an owner who cares, but right now we don’t have one. Is the front office willing/able to do something? I don’t think it is too early to try.
I know the pen is not the whole problem, but would it be worth trying to make a run for someone like Joe Nathan with the Twins? The Ttwinkies are not headed anywhere at 11.5 back. What would we have to give up?
By coachk
June 5, 2006 10:03 AM | Link to this
Jeff, this problem is nothing new and the only person to blame is booby oh yea bobby, perfect example sat come from 8 back score 10-9 lead off hit and we do nothing to advance runner to 2nd. this is why we don’t win in playoff we play mediocre teams with mediocre pitching during the year and when we meet good teams you don’t get 4 and 5 run innings you MUST play small ball and they have no clue. As far as a lead off getting up 4 times and getting on base one is unacceptable,a slump is 7-10 games not 2 months. IN post season there is no fire and we get beat by teams that are hungry. You can;t expect chipper and andrew to always mop up for bad management. It’s time to blast this organization from its sleep. They still have the team to win this division not with a panty waist mgr who coddles these guys. quit worring about feelings and expect results or sit you hind end until you figure it out,play diaz and betimet every day and pray mccann gets right back in the groove,and let me pack reitsmas and remingers back they are worthless.
By keith
June 5, 2006 10:04 AM | Link to this
Jeff, this problem is nothing new and the only person to blame is booby oh yea bobby, perfect example sat come from 8 back score 10-9 lead off hit and we do nothing to advance runner to 2nd. this is why we don’t win in playoff we play mediocre teams with mediocre pitching during the year and when we meet good teams you don’t get 4 and 5 run innings you MUST play small ball and they have no clue. As far as a lead off getting up 4 times and getting on base one is unacceptable,a slump is 7-10 games not 2 months. IN post season there is no fire and we get beat by teams that are hungry. You can;t expect chipper and andrew to always mop up for bad management. It’s time to blast this organization from its sleep. They still have the team to win this division not with a panty waist mgr who coddles these guys. quit worring about feelings and expect results or sit you hind end until you figure it out,play diaz and betimet every day and pray mccann gets right back in the groove,and let me pack reitsmas and remingers back they are worthless.
By KneeJerk
June 5, 2006 10:04 AM | Link to this
So when Bobby “lights a fire”, will the players run faster, swing harder, or throw harder? NO Baseball is a game on concentration, unlike football where the coach can inspire you to try to take someone’s head off. Bobby yelling isn’t going to help pitch location or centering the ball on the barrel. If you want a “light the fire” manager, I hear Bowa’s available.
By braves fan
June 5, 2006 10:05 AM | Link to this
Some changes that could be made: 1)Move Renteria up to the leadoff spot. The guy is hitting .323 with a .404 on-base %, that leads the team among regulars. Then move Chipper up to the two spot, since his power has declined, but he still gets on base with a .392 OBP. Then put McCann in the three hole. He was leading the league in hitting, has a .399 OBP and leads the Braves in slugging at .554. That means he’s been their best hitter by any measure. Then Andruw at cleanup, Giles, LaRoche, Francoeur, Langerhans, pitcher. Giles has been a productive hitter, but the leadoff spot just aint working out for him. Get that pressure off his shoulders.
2) Move Jorge Sosa out of the rotation and insert Chuck James. He should be sufficiently stretched out from his stint in Richmond by now.
3) Reitsma has got to go. Maybe he can just be the long relief, mop up guy. But he can’t be allowed to pitch in a close game anymore. That’s demoralizing the team.
4) Call up any reliever from the minors who has shown some success. The Braves made a big move one year, calling up 3 relievers and demoting 3 relievers all in one move. The move worked. Time to make a drastic bullpen move. I like Ray, McBride and Remlinger, if he’s not overused. Other than that, anyone is fair game to be demoted, Sosa included.
5) Get Wilson Betemit more at bats. He should be starting every 3 out of 5 games at one position or another, at 2B or 1B. Renteria and Chipper get on base enough that they deserve to play every day. But Giles and LaRoche are so streaky and strikeout way too much to get a lion’s share of at bats.
6) Pete Orr should be demoted and bring Martin Prado back up and see what he can do.
By Bobby
June 5, 2006 10:05 AM | Link to this
What I don’t understand is where is the heat on Terry Pendleton. Half our lineup hits .250 or worse, (Laroche,Francouer,Langerhans,Giles) Wilson Betemit has to be able to play one of there positions. We strike out, don’t move people over, and do much of anything good at the plate, shouldn’t we blame the hitting coach? What will happen first Frenchy take a first pitch or Chipper hit a homerun ?
By keith
June 5, 2006 10:06 AM | Link to this
Jeff, this problem is nothing new and the only person to blame is booby oh yea bobby, perfect example sat come from 8 back score 10-9 lead off hit and we do nothing to advance runner to 2nd. this is why we don’t win in playoff we play mediocre teams with mediocre pitching during the year and when we meet good teams you don’t get 4 and 5 run innings you MUST play small ball and they have no clue. As far as a lead off getting up 4 times and getting on base one is unacceptable,a slump is 7-10 games not 2 months. IN post season there is no fire and we get beat by teams that are hungry. You can;t expect chipper and andrew to always mop up for bad management. It’s time to blast this organization from its sleep. They still have the team to win this division not with a panty waist mgr who coddles these guys. quit worring about feelings and expect results or sit you hind end until you figure it out,play diaz and betimet every day and pray mccann gets right back in the groove,and let me pack reitsmas and remingers back they are worthless.
By Lew
June 5, 2006 10:06 AM | Link to this
Peter is correct-back to basics is what we need. Drew, posting your response three times doesn’t make it any stronger. This is a lot of fuss at a team that just fell below .500. There is time and we do have the talent. Consider yourselves lucky. We have hope. You fans really deserve the Devil Rays instead of the Braves. Reitsma does need to go, but maybe the death threats and personal insults are a bit over the line.
By ben sutton
June 5, 2006 10:20 AM | Link to this
some of you “fans” are a joke…. a few years ago the Brave were 33-39. Guess what, the Braves won the division by 10 games. Bobby Cox will go down as one of the greatest managers of all time…first ballot HOF. He has been thru ownerships who want to “cut back” 3 different times. Guess what, he still gets them to the playoffs. Once playoff time comes, it is a short series. It takes great managers to get to the playoffs over 162 games (especially 14 years straight)… but the manager can’t be held 100% responsible once playoff time. ANY PLAYER WILL TELL YOU THAT. The Braves have the best organization from top to bottom in baseball. No team will tell you different. The “fairweather” fans on here base their opinions on a week-to-week basis. That’s fine, but in 2 months… when the Braves are in first, I don’t want to hear it. I will repeat..WE WERE 33-39 A FEW YEARS BACK, AND WE ENDED UP WINNING THE DIVISION BY 10 GAMES. Either support them year round… or go root for the Mets or Phillies who boos their players judging by one game. Oh yeah, Reitsma won’t be playing much longer. So, get off Bobby’s nuts on that one. He plays who he is given. Reitsma will be gone by all-star break unless something drastically changes. Root for your team… or go somewhere else.
By Lew
June 5, 2006 10:20 AM | Link to this
Peter is correct-back to basics is what we need. Drew, posting your response three times doesn’t make it any stronger. This is a lot of fuss at a team that just fell below .500. There is time and we do have the talent. Consider yourselves lucky. We have hope. You fans really deserve the Devil Rays instead of the Braves. Reitsma does need to go, but maybe the death threats and personal insults are a bit over the line.
By JOHN B.
June 5, 2006 10:21 AM | Link to this
KneeJerk,
I’m talking about how guys don’t move runners over, guys swinging at first pitches when the pitcher is struggling, our pitchers walking lead off guys, things like that. And I’m not saying just yelling at the team is the answer. Benching guys and playing the reserves when they don’t execute the fundamentals. Taking a guy off the field for making a bone headed mistake. Things like that can light a fire.
By Joni
June 5, 2006 10:23 AM | Link to this
I’ll tell you what SUCKS, fair weather fans.
By JOHN B.
June 5, 2006 10:27 AM | Link to this
And I do think Cox is one of the best managers of all time. However, a good manager will change as it is needed.
I do not think it’s Bobby Cox’s fault that the Braves have won only 1 WS ring in the last 15 years. He has made some questionable decisions, but all managers do. They are only human.
However, I do give Cox the credit for winning 14 consecutive division titles. There were some years that the Braves had no business winning the division.
By ebineezer
June 5, 2006 10:33 AM | Link to this
The Braves need some Hooters girls for cheerleaders to put some life back into Turner Field, to give us a reason to go out to the ballpark. Trade LaRoach to the Mets for Hulio Franco. Throw in Sosa and Retsmia if they will take them, just get Franco back! What ever happened to Wholers or Rocker?
By what-me-worry?
June 5, 2006 10:34 AM | Link to this
It has been a team effort. Almost everyone from the manager & coaches, players, even the announcers have sucked. It is time for Cox to stand up to the plate and get some things going. Leading off…get Giles out of the leadoff spot. This has to be the worst manager decision so far this year. Running a close second is Reeksma pitching in any situation other than mop-up. Wilson should be playing somewhere everyday. And the hitters need to show more patience. I know these things have been said before. So, BOBBY, WAKE UP AND SMELL THE COFFEE!!!!
By Scott
June 5, 2006 10:34 AM | Link to this
I’m a life-long Braves fan and I will be until the day I die. But things need to change, and they need to change now! I could tell very early on this year that it wasn’t going to be our year. The Mets are better than I thought. Plus, we have some big-time problems. The Adam LaRoche experiment at first base needs to end now. It’s time to move Chipper to first base and put Wilson Betemit at third. The lineup has proven that it can score runs, but the big problem is that Marcus Giles is not a leadoff hitter and we have way too many impatient hitters. Too many strikeouts!
Also, the bullpen is atrocious. We’ve had bad bullpens before, but this year tops them all. Chris Reitsma is NOT a closer. I repeat, Chris Reitsma is NOT a closer. Why can’t management see this? It’s beyond me why a franchise who has lost at least two World Series because it didn’t have an adequate closer will not go out and get a decent one. Stop trying to plug the holes with has-beens and never-will-bes.
It’s true, we’re just six games out of first place despite all of our troubles. But the Mets are good enough to run away with this mediocre division. Some moves need to be made quickly, or this season will be a lost cause. On the other hand, it may be worth it to fall flat on our faces. Maybe management will get a clue that this team, as it’s currently constructed, is not going to win anymore.
By Bobby
June 5, 2006 10:35 AM | Link to this
What I don’t understand is where is the heat on Terry Pendleton. Half our lineup hits .250 or worse, (Laroche,Francouer,Langerhans,Giles) Wilson Betemit has to be able to play one of there positions. We strike out, don’t move people over, and don’t do much of anything at the plate, shouldn’t we blame the hitting coach? What will happen first Frenchy take a first pitch or Chipper hit a homerun ?
By Barry
June 5, 2006 10:35 AM | Link to this
Ben, good post. Every year we hear the same tired crap about how the Braves stink then they win the division. I can remember the years when fans wore paper bags over their heads at home games…they were so ashamed of the team. In those days, people longed for the Braves to just compete. It is too early to give up on them, but I have to admit, this is the worse they’ve looked in 15 years. Our overall pitching has never looked this bad. If it were just the bullpen, I wouldn’t be as worried. But starting pitching is bad too. Our offense, when it does muster 10 runs, is beaten by our own bad pitching that gives up 13. We need pitching help.
By Scott
June 5, 2006 10:37 AM | Link to this
I’m a life-long Braves fan and I will be until the day I die. But things need to change, and they need to change now! I could tell very early on this year that it wasn’t going to be our year. The Mets are better than I thought. Plus, we have some big-time problems. The Adam LaRoche experiment at first base needs to end now. It’s time to move Chipper to first base and put Wilson Betemit at third. The lineup has proven that it can score runs, but the big problem is that Marcus Giles is not a leadoff hitter and we have way too many impatient hitters. Too many strikeouts!
Also, the bullpen is atrocious. We’ve had bad bullpens before, but this year tops them all. Chris Reitsma is NOT a closer. I repeat, Chris Reitsma is NOT a closer. Why can’t management see this? It’s beyond me why a franchise who has lost at least two World Series because it didn’t have an adequate closer will not go out and get a decent one. Stop trying to plug the holes with has-beens and never-will-bes.
It’s true, we’re just six games out of first place despite all of our troubles. But the Mets are good enough to run away with this mediocre division. Some moves need to be made quickly, or this season will be a lost cause. On the other hand, it may be worth it to fall flat on our faces. Maybe management will get a clue that this team, as it’s currently constructed, is not going to win anymore.
By Ken
June 5, 2006 10:45 AM | Link to this
Fans, commentators, coaches, other teams have said for the past 2 years, we don’t have a bullpen. Now all the relief pitchers and closers have gotten too expensive and the front office acts like it’s the first we knew we need help?
By David
June 5, 2006 10:50 AM | Link to this
How do you take a perennial winner like the Braves and turn them into a loser? Sell the team to AOL Time Warner. Until the Braves get an owner who is willing to fund a winning team again, we’re going to see more of the same. Even Schuerholz and Cox can’t continually make chicken salad out of chicken spit. This year, the players we’ve lost due to ever declining payroll finally caught up with the Braves. And to top it all off, AOL Time Warner decided to cut costs further by cutting out the best broadcast team in baseball. PLEASE - sell the Braves to Mr. Turner or Mr. Blank!!!
By Dirty Dog
June 5, 2006 10:53 AM | Link to this
Braves win braves win world champions 2006 , chipper wins mvp smoltz wins cy young , Reitsma saves 50 games. get ready for the greatest comeback in history all you band wagon terds can get off right now.
By You dont say
June 5, 2006 11:01 AM | Link to this
Problem is the team is down. The starting pitchers know the deal. They arent allowed to have a bad game. If they do there is no help for them in the middle innings.
The players know it takes millins of runs per game to win. They know if they score 9 runs and lead by 8 by the time the pen gets in their efforts will have nothing to show.
Moral is down even though they stick up for the pen. What would you expect them to do. Say they are the pitts. They wont but they know what they have and its year two. They are tired of fighting each and every game to give it away with the pen.
We have two rookies who are learning to adjust with Francoeur and Langerhans. The other vets need to pick them up. Chipper is not doing his part. Andruw has gone back to a closed stance. Why does nobody see this. What is Terry P doing, holding up the rails. Good job if you ask ne. Rail holder.
Bottom line, until the braves get a closer (Reistma has a 37-63 saves record) and two good arms in the pen we will not produce wins. Its that simple. This is a good team with gaping holes in the pen. We also need a 1st baseman who can be consistant and the platoon does not work. Jordan is not defensive at 1st.
By Rob Hicks
June 5, 2006 11:09 AM | Link to this
Jeff had it all wrong.. he should have said ” the pitchers all just stink”.. you don’t win games by giving up 5 or 6 runs a night. No starting pitching and no bully. The run is over. And yes Braves pitching, it is YOU.
By nelson
June 5, 2006 11:10 AM | Link to this
fired!!! cox and mc dowell !
welcome lou piniella to the atlanta braves !
By nelson
June 5, 2006 11:11 AM | Link to this
fired!!! cox and mc dowell !
welcome lou piniella to the atlanta braves !
By Edd Anderson
June 5, 2006 11:11 AM | Link to this
I thought we played 162 games? It is far from over but yes our pitching ain’t what it used to be !!!
By uga4ever
June 5, 2006 11:12 AM | Link to this
Scott- mgmt does recognize that Reitsma is not a closer. The last 4 games…when we had the lead, he was pulled. Until our ownership is ready to spend money…. we won’t have a “shut-down closer” Bobby does what he can… As of late..it has been bullpen by committee. To you fair-weather fans, maybe we need to fire Shuerholtz, Wren, and Cox—- and bring in Billy Knight, Coach Woodson, and company (THAT WOULD REALLY HELP, WHAT DO YOU GUYS THINK, LOL) What do you “ATL fans think?” THE BRAVES ARE SOMETHING TO BE PROUD OF REPRESENTING THIS TOWN……… DON’T SHIAT ON IT. Better yet, let’s fire all mgmt and rebuild, the Hawks seem to be having great success. Guys, If we had a sole ownership who would spend a little money……… WE WOULD HAVE 3 OR 4 TITLES. ITS NOT COX OR SHUERHOLTZ… THEY DO THE BEST THEY CAN WITH WHAT THE CAN SPEND.
By chase
June 5, 2006 11:12 AM | Link to this
First off…Settel down everybody! The Braves are only 6 out of first. Baseball can turn around so fast! It as easy as winning two out of the next three and having the Mets lose one or two. And don’t forget the Mets have played more home games so far than anyone in the National League!—That will change. And two years ago we were 33-39 and last year at this time it wasn’t much different. That being said…Reitsma and Remlinger have to go and Betemit has to be given a chance. Maybe we could package LaRoche and Reitsma for a good reliver and let Betemit play first (if Jordan can do it Betemit can!) And since the Marlins are dumping salary and we susposably have 4 million under our self-imposed 80 mil cap maybe we could package Langerhans and Pena or some minor leaguer for Miguel Cabrera even if its just for this year. Then you’d have another stick and at least a dependable reliever. Could you imagine a lineup that goes Giles, Renteria, CJ, AJ, Cabrera, Francoeur, Betemit, McCann? But if we can’t have Cabrera, Let Langerhans lead off with his speed move Giles back to second, then CJ, AJ, and let Renteria hit fifth to protect AJ so that they might give him something to hit—which they very seldom will with strikout LaRoche and streaky Francoeur hitting behind him…Just some thoughts—but don’t give up we’ve been down before and maybe when we get Davies back for the stretch run we can move Sosa back to the bullpen and have a hard thrower down there…….we’ll see
By nelson
June 5, 2006 11:13 AM | Link to this
bad bullpen , poor starting pichers , giles 1st bate ? langerhans of ?
fired cox and mc dowell
WELCOME TO THE ATLANTA BRAVES
LOU PINIELLA !!!!!!!!
By uga4ever
June 5, 2006 11:14 AM | Link to this
Scott- mgmt does recognize that Reitsma is not a closer. The last 4 games…when we had the lead, he was pulled. Until our ownership is ready to spend money…. we won’t have a “shut-down closer” Bobby does what he can… As of late..it has been bullpen by committee. To you fair-weather fans, maybe we need to fire Shuerholtz, Wren, and Cox—- and bring in Billy Knight, Coach Woodson, and company (THAT WOULD REALLY HELP, WHAT DO YOU GUYS THINK, LOL) What do you “ATL fans think?” THE BRAVES ARE SOMETHING TO BE PROUD OF REPRESENTING THIS TOWN……… DON’T SHIAT ON IT. Better yet, let’s fire all mgmt and rebuild, the Hawks seem to be having great success. Guys, If we had a sole ownership who would spend a little money……… WE WOULD HAVE 3 OR 4 TITLES. ITS NOT COX OR SHUERHOLTZ… THEY DO THE BEST THEY CAN WITH WHAT THE CAN SPEND.
By uga4ever
June 5, 2006 11:20 AM | Link to this
TO TRUE ATLANTA FANS- take this - the Braves have 6 picks in the FIRST 2 ROUNDS OF THIS YEARS DRAFT……….there is no other GM/Manager that could pull that off. The ATL Hawks have 1 PICK FOR THE 07-08 SEASON. Even after winning 14 yrs straight, Shuerholtz is able to pull off 6 picks in the first 2 rounds. The Braves will be good for a long, long time no matter what. You wannabe “experts” keep spouting off your opinion. Bottom line……… you really don’t have a clue. Keep pulling for Billy Knight.. he is the best GM in the league to you guys, lol. And I love the Hawks, but cmon. I know good leadership when I see it.
By nelson
June 5, 2006 11:21 AM | Link to this
14 nl titles 1 ws .. next ws title 3055
fired john shuerholtz , time warner u sucks
fired cox and mc dowell .. hey piniella welcome to the atlanta braves
By nelson
June 5, 2006 11:24 AM | Link to this
By Texter87
June 5, 2006 09:04 AM | Link to this
Take it easy folks! We are only 6 games back, it is not like we lost everything. The Braves will be back to win the division
YEAh only the division . IM TIRED MAN . DIVISION , DIVISION … WS TITLE !! NO MORE DIVISIONS !
By Wilson
June 5, 2006 11:30 AM | Link to this
Looking at the ever increasing long faces on the fans’ faces Sunday afternoon on TBS showed more concern than the Braves’ dugout itself.
The question isn’t will the Braves trail the Mets and Phillies(and maybe even the Nationals) by double digits but when?
By Barry
June 5, 2006 11:39 AM | Link to this
Time Warner is the worst thing that ever happened to the Braves. I hate them so much I avoid anything they sell. Now they are going to sell the team to another corporation that is getting the team for stock options? They have stuck it to Braves fans and now, when we will finally be rid of them, they stick it to us one more time.
By Gary T.
June 5, 2006 11:46 AM | Link to this
The Braves real problem is simple: TIME WARNER. They have been the problem since buying the team. They have dismantled a great outfit, and used a lot of their minor league up. They hit the scene screwing with the baseball broadcast team- trying to make it the national broadcast, not a Braves broadcast. They tried to move Skip Caray- I listened to him do Crackers broadcasts.
They dismantled the best pitching staff possibly ever.Not done, they let the best pitching coach that there is go. They all had one thing in common. They wanted fair compensation. TIME WARNER’S PHILOSOPHY IS SIMPLE- WORK FOR CHEAP SO I CAN GET RICHER.
All true Braves fans should do everything in their power to BANKRUPT TIME WARNER - DESTROY THE ENEMY.
dID THEY NOT GET CAUGHT LYING TO THE fEDS ABOUT THEIR PROFITS. a MONOPOLY HAS TO LIE ABOUT PROFIT? IDIOTS.
By htims
June 5, 2006 11:55 AM | Link to this
The 2 corner outfielders and 1st base are the 3 places in any lineup that need to be productive offensively. I believe Francour will come around. But I’d look to upgrade left field via trade. I’ve seen enough of LaLazy at 1B, he needs to go (maybe for a left fielder?). I’d move Chipper to 1B and put Betemit and 3rd. Getting McCann off DL will be a big boost. Reitsma simply can’t pitch from the stretch. He can be used in 7th or 8th to start an inning, then yank him as soon as he allows one baserunner for any reason. Starting pitching will come around, but we’ve probably got enough in the farm system to make a run at D-train if he is made available. Ray and McBride are the best we have in the bullpen and need to be utilized more. One of these 2 should emerge as the closer. Move Giles out of lead spot. Batting order: Renteria, McCann, Jones, Jones, Betemit, Francour, Giles, LF, P
By Roxy
June 5, 2006 11:56 AM | Link to this
Why does everyone seem so surprised??? Cry now about the losing streak or later when they win the division and fall yet again!
By For Local Ownership
June 5, 2006 11:56 AM | Link to this
All of the people who have identified our corporate ownership(Time Warner) as our primary problem, have hit the nail on the head! I am not saying that we need to spend $200 million a year like the Yankees, but JS does need a little financial flexibility to get quality free agents. Give me a break! Does anyone really think that JS and BC were satisfied with our pitching going in. Their hands were tied, plain and simple. And with Liberty Media looking to be our next owner, I can only hope for the status quo.
By For Local Ownership
June 5, 2006 11:56 AM | Link to this
All of the people who have identified our corporate ownership(Time Warner) as our primary problem, have hit the nail on the head! I am not saying that we need to spend $200 million a year like the Yankees, but JS does need a little financial flexibility to get quality free agents. Give me a break! Does anyone really think that JS and BC were satisfied with our pitching going in? Their hands were tied, plain and simple. And with Liberty Media looking to be our next owner, I can only hope for the status quo.
By For Local Ownership
June 5, 2006 11:58 AM | Link to this
All of the people who have identified our corporate ownership(Time Warner) as our primary problem, have hit the nail on the head! I am not saying that we need to spend $200 million a year like the Yankees, but JS does need a little financial flexibility to get quality free agents. Give me a break! Does anyone really think that JS and BC were satisfied with our pitching going in? Their hands were tied, plain and simple. And with Liberty Media looking to be our next owner, I can only hope for the status quo.
By Ted Reitsma
June 5, 2006 12:08 PM | Link to this
GET RID OF REITSMA he is an embarassment to my last name. He is just plain pitiful. Put him on the Hawks.
By renegadedawg
June 5, 2006 12:12 PM | Link to this
The Braves need speed badly. This is the slowest Braves team I have seen since 1991, period. Chipper is feilding the ball cleanly 50% of the time. The same thing that happened to Jermaine Dye is going to happen to Wilson Betemit. The Braves will trade him, and he’ll go to some other team and be an All-Star. Why is he not playing everyday?? We’ve all discussed LaRoche’s shortfalls ad nauseum, both on offense and on defense. PUT BETEMIT AT FIRST!!!!! Release Reitsma. Bring back Rocker!! Sign Vick as a pinch runner.
By Russell
June 5, 2006 12:15 PM | Link to this
Typical Jeff Schultz B.S. You loose he is all over you you win he is your biggest fan. Schultz you suck!
By Robert
June 5, 2006 12:24 PM | Link to this
I dont see what all the fuss is about. Same old problem we’ve had since 1991; the donkey wearing the manager’s uniform. Only this time he doesnt have Leo or three HOF pitchers, and someone else in the division actually has a team. So we miss the playoffs this year. Big deal. We’ll have the same chance of winning the World Series that we’ve had the last ten
By Lindsay Edwards
June 5, 2006 12:32 PM | Link to this
Can we sell the bullpen on ebay???
By Robert S.
June 5, 2006 12:32 PM | Link to this
I have three words that will help the Braves when it comes to Chris Reitsma:
Designated for assignment.
By Robert
June 5, 2006 12:34 PM | Link to this
No, it’s illegal to rip people off on ebay
By D.S.
June 5, 2006 12:39 PM | Link to this
Wake me up when Cox stops going to Reitsma or Remlinger to close games. Until then, I’m done watching.
By Darblue
June 5, 2006 12:43 PM | Link to this
Darblue would like to see following Top 10 resolutions, me make happy: 1) Fire Dayton Moore, he no good 2) Bring back Mike Hampton 3) Call up Blauser from AA to major leagues 4) Why is Pendleton always on bench? Call him up to starter, he need be on field 5) John Scheurholz bobblehead night, him posing with picture of his book. 6) Recall Darren Bragg to outfield. 7) Recall Raul Mondesi to outfield. 8) Recall Brian Jordan to outfield (oh wait, this joke no work).
9) Trade Wes Obermueller back to Brewers for Dan Kolb. 10) Replace Adam LaRoche with Fred Toucher, nobody notice. Hee Hee Hee.
By Chico Escuela
June 5, 2006 12:45 PM | Link to this
In 1990 John Schuerholz was fired in Kansas City for spending way too much money on the wrong players, tying up the Royals’ payroll with the Mark Davis debacle. He’s done the same thing in Atlanta. Most of the Braves’ 82 million dollar payroll is tied up in John Smoltz, Tim Hudson, Mike Hampton, Andruew Jones & Chipper Jones. Hudson is not the pitcher he was cracked up to be, Chipper is on the decline & Hampton has been injured and a bust when he wasn’t injured.
Its time to clean house !
By Logic Man
June 5, 2006 12:46 PM | Link to this
It only stands to reason that after several years of mediocre payroll, you will end up with a mediocre team. Yes you can waste a lot of money like the previous Mets GM and look like a fool, but their current GM appears to have gotten $105 worth of value, This all leads up to the fact that THERE IS NO MONEY with which to fix our current problems. Reitsma is our closer because we could not afford Billy Wagner or any other top notch free agent closer. Guess what, we still cannot aford one even if they became available. I do beleive that with all of our strike outs, either TP is not teaching the right stuff or worse, he is being ignored. That problem can be fixed one way or another without spending too much more.
By Amazed
June 5, 2006 12:47 PM | Link to this
Hey, guys (and probably some women), it’s just a GAME!! Lighten up. If this is what you do for enjoyment then no wonder there is so much stress in the world. Whatever happened to you win some you lose some. This whole subject does not mean a hill of beans in the big picture of life.
By Robert S.
June 5, 2006 12:48 PM | Link to this
What is it about the Braves farm system that brings about such over-aggressive hitters? I have never seen a team so consistently swing-happy as these clowns. And this goes back several years. I’ll never forget the 1999 NLCS, and what Al Leiter said after one game - “I was amazed. These guys swung at everything I threw up there.” It’s still true today. First pitches, bad pitches, trying to pull everything, if a batter walks, the next batter (Read: Jeff Francoeur) swings at the first pitch. There has been an astonishing lack of plate discipline for this team for way too long, and I believe it starts with management, and their way of bringing these hitters up through the farm system. They strike out way too much (Read: Andruw, Marcus Giles, Francoeur, and in the past, Klesko, Lopez, etc). They all came up through the Braves minor league system. How about training the young bloods still down there to actually make contact!!! What a concept!
By Fence
June 5, 2006 12:49 PM | Link to this
3 syllables tell you all you need to know about why the Braves suck this year
MAZ ZO NI
By Montezuma
June 5, 2006 12:52 PM | Link to this
Ever notice Bobby Cox picking his nose in the dugout?
I’ve noticed when he’s using one finger, he brings in Chris Reitsma. When he has fingers up both nostrils, that’s when Remmy comes trotting in to stink up the place.
Just a little insight on our manager.
By Tony Rhoton
June 5, 2006 12:52 PM | Link to this
The answerer is in trading for some good players thus getting rid of Reitsma. The Braves should try to get Miguel Cabrera from Fla. They also need to get a new hitting coach. I know everyone loves Terry Pendleton but he’s not getting the job done. I know this my not be popular but I’d trade Betemit while his value is high. The Braves need some one to back up the Jones Boys while the rookies learn.
By Fence
June 5, 2006 12:53 PM | Link to this
3 syllables tell you all you need to know about why the Braves suck this year
MAZ ZO NI
By Chris
June 5, 2006 01:02 PM | Link to this
Common guys. Give the Braves a break. It’s too early to be so negative. I agree that things don’t look so great now, but give the team time. Although there are changes that need to be made, we need to remain positive. Diehard Braves fans will support the team regardless of how good or bad they do at certain points during the season. I was at the game on Saturday night, and the fans were pulling hard for the Braves to make a comeback. We screamed, cheered, chopped, and waved in hopes of a comeback win. I can agree to several points: 1. The bullpen must become more effective. 2. The starters must become more effective. 3. The hitters must take more pitches(especially Francoeur). 4. Betemit needs more playing time. 5. Chipper Jones does not seem to be the same Chipper that has lead this team in the past.
Let’s cheer and hope that we can win the division this year. We have become so used to winning divisions that we complain everytime the team struggles. I would rather cheer for the Braves than Kansas City or Tampa Bay. I am glad to be a Braves fan! Go Braves. Let’s make up some ground in the standings on this week. Go Braves!!!!
By CP
June 5, 2006 01:15 PM | Link to this
Where’s John Rocker when you need him ?
By metsmanintheatl
June 5, 2006 01:17 PM | Link to this
nice homestand ATL….wild card slipping away…GO METROS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By SR
June 5, 2006 01:19 PM | Link to this
Good blog, many comments dead bang on- bottom line, this is not a good team and as I have said on more than one occasion, it is deeply flawed. Need some evidence in support of that? Here it is:
1) Four position players are hitting .250 or less, LaRoche, Giles, Francouer and Langerhans. When 50% of your starting lineup is that unproductive, you are flawed.
2) Each of those four players are on pace to strike out more than 100 times this season-LaRoche, Langerhans and Giles over 125 each. More flaws:
The bullpen is littered with has beens, never weres and never will be’s. Villareal, 4. 85 ERA, Cormier 6.10, Reitsma 7.20 and oh yeah, Joey Devine, 63.00. Any baseball fan knows that as bad as these ERA’s are, they are actually much worse, since as is often the case, a reliever does not get dinged for allowing all inherited runners to score, at least with respect to ERA.
The team ERA is 4.85. Almost five runs a game just does not cut it.
Bench stinks- Pete Orr is batting .200, Brian Jordan, .222. That don’t cut it either.
Though I have not been one to lay the blame on Cox’s doorstep in the past, I have to agree with the posters who decry his continued use of Reitsma. Enough is enough already, he has to go period.
I will say however that the bulk of the blame has to lie with ownership and management. Ownership for being so damn penurious that Schuerholz cannot spend a little more to upgrade and Management for so grossly overestimating the talent level of some of these players. There was a reason people were willing to let some of these pitchers go and to have believed that some of them could actually form the nucleus of a solid bullpen is folly at best and mismanagement at worst.
I think that about covers it- as I said recently, this team as presently constructed wins eighty something games, maybe less. If they end up winning more, I will eat crow but I don’t see it happening with this bunch.
By Tyler
June 5, 2006 01:21 PM | Link to this
Wow, many of these people shouldn’s be allowed to post. This is crazy its a lil over a third of the way through the season and people are going crazy. Remember a few years ago when johnson pitched a perfect game the day after we were shut out. calm down we will pull it out its baseball 162 games a year. Remember just last year when we started 7 rookies. Yes we need bullpen help but our minor league system is loaded dont want to rush anything. Remember Joey Devine who now is in ROOKIE LEAGUE ok calm down we are braves fans show some support buy tickets goto the games and stop being so negative gosh GO BRAVES
By JJ
June 5, 2006 01:23 PM | Link to this
HELL YES TO THAT GUY!!!!!
By Tyler
June 5, 2006 01:24 PM | Link to this
Wow, many of these people shouldn’s be allowed to post. This is crazy its a lil over a third of the way through the season and people are going crazy. Remember a few years ago when johnson pitched a perfect game the day after we were shut out. calm down we will pull it out its baseball 162 games a year. Remember just last year when we started 7 rookies. Yes we need bullpen help but our minor league system is loaded dont want to rush anything. Remember Joey Devine who now is in ROOKIE LEAGUE ok calm down we are braves fans show some support buy tickets goto the games and stop being so negative gosh GO BRAVES
By Steve
June 5, 2006 01:30 PM | Link to this
The Braves need to get Carl Crawford from Tampa Bay!! Ryan Langerhans SUCKS!!!! Bottom line!! Giles is no lead off hitter and when he gets on base he is no threat to steal. I can’t stress how bad Langerhans is!! He is a .250 hitter with 4 Home Runs!!! Why do people think he is just gonna bust out and hit 25 Home Runs and bat .290???? NOT GONNA HAPPEN!!! Crawford is a .300 hitter with MORE power AND steals over 50 bases a season and is only 2 MILLION A YEAR!!! Look at this lineup with him and when McCann gets back June 8th:
Crawford LF Renteria SS Chipper 3B Andruw CF McCann C Francoeur RF Laroche 1B Giles 2B
GILES IN THE 8 HOLE!!! When Giles is comfortable, he is a .300+ hitter with 45 doubles!!! They need to make this move Langerhans is killing them, making the lineup week, along with Todd Pratt, who by the way is terrible too, but you can’t help the McCann injuries, those things happen.
PLEASE GET CARL CRAWFORD!!!!
By Steve
June 5, 2006 01:31 PM | Link to this
The Braves need to get Carl Crawford from Tampa Bay!! Ryan Langerhans SUCKS!!!! Bottom line!! Giles is no lead off hitter and when he gets on base he is no threat to steal. I can’t stress how bad Langerhans is!! He is a .250 hitter with 4 Home Runs!!! Why do people think he is just gonna bust out and hit 25 Home Runs and bat .290???? NOT GONNA HAPPEN!!! Crawford is a .300 hitter with MORE power AND steals over 50 bases a season and is only 2 MILLION A YEAR!!! Look at this lineup with him and when McCann gets back June 8th:
Crawford LF Renteria SS Chipper 3B Andruw CF McCann C Francoeur RF Laroche 1B Giles 2B
GILES IN THE 8 HOLE!!! When Giles is comfortable, he is a .300+ hitter with 45 doubles!!! They need to make this move Langerhans is killing them, making the lineup weak, along with Todd Pratt, who by the way is terrible too, but you can’t help the McCann injuries, those things happen.
PLEASE GET CARL CRAWFORD!!!!
By JSearcy
June 5, 2006 01:31 PM | Link to this
I’m going to be one of the few optimists on this one. Lots of games to go folks. Hopefully the Braves will will be abel to snap-to if they face the D’backs again (hopefully in the playoffs??). Kick’em when they’re down and patting them on the shoulder in victory is simply bad sports in itself….and less than loyal fans.
By JSearcy
June 5, 2006 01:31 PM | Link to this
I’m going to be one of the few optimists on this one. Lots of games to go folks. Hopefully the Braves will will be abel to snap-to if they face the D’backs again (hopefully in the playoffs??). Kick’em when they’re down and patting them on the shoulder in victory is simply bad sports in itself….and less than loyal fans.
By tman
June 5, 2006 01:33 PM | Link to this
The Braves missed their chance in the offseason to sign relievers Scott Eyre(1.86 era) and Bob Howry(2.36 era), now both are with the Cubs. If the Cubs can afford them so can the Braves. Put some money in the bullpen!
By cloud
June 5, 2006 01:36 PM | Link to this
Everyone please stop trashing Bobby Cox…you should be embarrassed for yourselves. The poor guy has got to be frustrated with the performance of his players. You would be too.. Name something at your occupation that you have accomplished 14 in a row. Root for 15…Go Bravos.
However, Reitsma, you suck, badly! You almost make me miss Kolb. Please,let’s spend some money for some consistent players, (Miguel). I will pay more for my tickets.
By geekboy
June 5, 2006 01:37 PM | Link to this
Hopefully Bobby will put the bottle down long enough to make some drastic changes, else it’s “put a fork in ‘em” time.
Change #1: Demote Reitsma to long relief, try Ken Ray at closer.
Change #2: Chipper starts at first. Betemit starts at third.
Change #3: Betemit bats 5th every day. McCann, when healthy, bats 6th every day.
Change #4: Trade Thompson and a raft of minor leaguers to get a quality starter — hopefully a lefty. Hopefully this will leave you with Hudson, Smoltz, D-TRAIN!, Ramirez. The fifth starter can be Chuck James when needed.
Change #5: Put Sosa in the bullpen, he’s got a great arm, too much to give up on.
By steve
June 5, 2006 01:40 PM | Link to this
What do a pro body builder and Chris Reitsma have in common, they both know how to get ripped. He has to go… he is a talentless bum and he is getting worse!
By Kent
June 5, 2006 01:40 PM | Link to this
O YE HAVE LITTLE FAITH!
This homestand has been awful… no doubt about it. But don’t forget that coming into this homestand, the Braves had gone 15-5 over the previous 20 games. If you look at how the Braves lost each of these games, it really looks like this bad stretch of games is just that, a bad stretch. This won’t last.
Here’s a look at each of the Braves 6 losses on this homestand and how they lost:
• 5/29 (vs. Dodgers): John Thompson meltdown
• 5/30 (vs. Dodgers): Bullpen failed / not
much offense
• 5/31 (vs. Dodgers): Braves won
• 6/1 (vs. D.Backs): No offense / bad luck
• 6/2 (vs. D.Backs – game 1): No offense /
slightly sub par performance by Smoltz
• 6/2 (vs. D.Backs – game 2): Another John
Thompson meltdown
• 6/3 (vs. D.Backs): Poor performance by Jorge Sosa / not much offense (Reitsma
blew any chance for 9th inning comeback)
REASONS TO BELIEVE:
1 - John Thompson single handedly lost 2 of these games for Atlanta. (Kind of reminds me of Tom Glavine in the 2002 NLDS.) Anyway, John Thompson has been very solid for the Braves since arriving in Atlanta, and there’s every reason to believe that he’ll return to form very soon. Also, the back end of the rotation has been getting a much needed boost from Heracio Ramirez since his return from injury. If he continues to pitch like his last couple of starts, the Braves rotation will be in great shape regardless of what Thompson does.
2 - If you take away the 2 recent games in which John Thompson gave the Braves no chance to win, you have to primarily blame the offense. In those 4 (non-Thompson) losses, Atlanta only scored a total of only 9 runs. The good news is that the Brave’s offense is better than that, and will only improve when McCann returns from the DL.
3 - Ken Ray will get a crack at becoming the Brave’s closer. If he can’t handle it,
expect Sheurholz to get a deal done to fix the closer situation.
4 - The Met’s are no jugernaut. Their starting pitching is thin beyond Pedro Martinez and Glavine. Their offense is good, but not great. The Braves are more than capable of overtaking this team.
By Josh
June 5, 2006 01:52 PM | Link to this
Everytime I open up the AJC lately I see the same things. I see LaRoche and Francoeur talking about adjustments that need to be made. Are they the only two guys that stick around long enough to talk to the media? I wanna know what Chipper Jones and Andruw Jones and John Smoltz are saying BEHIND CLOSED DOORS to this team about what happened this weekend and what has happened all year. THIS IS RIDICULOUS. 40,000 people showed up Sat. night and were into it all game, and you STILL cant win even after a 10-2 game becomes 10-9. SOMEBODY SUCK IT UP AND LEAD THIS TEAM!!!
By tman
June 5, 2006 01:53 PM | Link to this
The Braves missed their chance in the offseason to sign relievers Scott Eyre(1.86 era) and Bob Howry(2.36 era), now both are with the Cubs. If the Cubs can afford them so can the Braves. Put some money in the bullpen!
By Robert
June 5, 2006 01:58 PM | Link to this
“Name something at your occupation that you have accomplished 14 in a row”
You might call the Braves’ playoff record “accomplishment”. I call it embarrassment.
Offhand, I can think of three managers who WOULDNT have won the past 14 division titles with the teams the Braves have had
Ever time I see Cox in the dugout, I get flashbacks of Pinnochio, the island where the bad kids turn into donkeys with the ears and tail sticking out of their clothes
By Peewee
June 5, 2006 01:58 PM | Link to this
Put the blame where it belongs, John and Bobby knew the Problems the Braves had ever since last year and DID NOTHING to improve the BULLPEN, 1st, Lead-off Nothing!!!!!!!!!!! They do still have some money. Bet on it!!They could have got a relief pitcher and lead off hitter but wanted to go with what they had and you see the results.The blame starts and stops at the top.
By braves fan
June 5, 2006 02:15 PM | Link to this
The blog about Chipper being under appreciated is closed, but I wanted to comment, so I’ll do it here.
I’d like to show you the stats of one of Chipper Jones’ contemporaries in comparison to his.
Chipper G-1694 AB-6138 R-1136 H-1859 2B-363 HR-336 RBI-1140 BB-1037 SO-965 AVG-.303 OBP-.401 SLG-.535 OPS-.936
Player B G-1578 AB-6379 R-1201 H-2009 2B-321 HR-174 RBI-804 BB-668 SO-1128 AVG-.315 OBP-.387 SLG-.462 OPS-.849
Player B is widely considered a lock Hall of Fame candidate, despite being mid-career like Chipper. Can you guess who this player is? Here’s a hint, he’s one of few players in the majors to have played more than 10 seasons and never had a losing season, nor missed the playoffs for that matter.
By Joe
June 5, 2006 02:17 PM | Link to this
I don’t care what anyone has to say about the Braves. Come October they’ll be crowned division champions for the 15th straight season. In case you all have not been paying attention over the past decade; the Mets & Phillies will fold as usual come July and the Braves will become as hot as Atlanta summer. You can count on it. My early congratulations to the 2006 NL East Division Champion Atlanta Braves.
By Dirty Dawg
June 5, 2006 02:25 PM | Link to this
One thing that this blog proves is that Atlanta’s baseball fans will never be called knowledgeable, appreciative or classy. Any other city in the country a run such as this would have created such pride and fan loyalty, every ball player in the business would kill to get here…and stay here.
Let this team fall short for a week or so that the sky has already fallen.
By the way, seems to me that the last time the Braves lost a four-game series at home - 1995 - was also the year they won it all. Care to wait and see, or are you too busy jumping off the bandwagon and/or throwing Bobby under the bus?
By Chop Chop
June 5, 2006 02:32 PM | Link to this
braves fan…
It’s Derek Jeter.
By braves fan
June 5, 2006 02:38 PM | Link to this
The answer is Derek Jeter. Jeter recently got his 2000th hit and was immediately crowned as the player with the best shot to eclipse Pete Rose’s all time hits record. Doubtful, but Jeter has been a great player. I believe Chipper compares favorably to Jeter, even if he doesn’t get the same recognition. Chipper is a couple years older than Jeter, but lost an entire season back in 1994. Chipper has won an MVP award, Jeter has not. Chipper has a higher on-base %, slugging %, and OPS. He has significantly more homeruns and rbi’s. He has more walks and fewer strikeouts. While Jeter has never been considered a powerful hitter, I guarantee you that overall the average baseball fan would have regarded Jeter as a better hitter than Jones. But the statistics do not bear this out. Chipper has been more patient and his patience is rewarded by either earning a walk, or getting better pitches to hit that result in extra bases. Surely Jeter will be remembered as a better defensive player, and the stats bear that out. But Jones should be remembered for his selfishness, willing to move to LF to help his team. Jeter is by no means selfish, but he didn’t voluteer to move from SS, despite the Yankees adding a gold glove shortstop in Arod. Both of them are winners. And I think if Jeter is considered for the HOF, then Chipper deserves a look too.
By W. E. SHOEMAKER
June 5, 2006 02:41 PM | Link to this
CAN’T BLAME THE HITTING COACH, WE HAVE HAD 4 DIFFERENT HITTING COACHES WITH THE SAME RESULTS, WAIT FOR A HOME RUN, DON’T TRY FOR SMALL BALL, THE MANAGER IS AT FAULT.
LETTING THE STARTING PITCHER HIT IN THE 6TH INNING AND THEN REMOVING THE SAME PITCHER THE NEXT 1/2 INNING BECAUSE HE WAS NOT PITCHING GOOD BEFORE HE BATTED. MANAGERS FAULT.
OVER USE OF BULLPEN STAFF.
CORPORATED GREED. I BELIEVE IF THINGS CONTINUE LIKE THIS, COME LATE JULY THEY WILL HAVE A LOT OF EMPTY SEATS AT THE TED.
BOBBY COX MAY BE A GREAT ORANGIZER, PUTTING THE RIGHT PEOPLE IN CHARGE OF THE BRAVES WHEN HE FIRST TOOK OVER, BUT HIS AMERICAN LEAGUE STYLE OF MANAGING HAS NEVER WORKED.
By W. E. SHOEMAKER
June 5, 2006 02:42 PM | Link to this
CAN’T BLAME THE HITTING COACH, WE HAVE HAD 4 DIFFERENT HITTING COACHES WITH THE SAME RESULTS, WAIT FOR A HOME RUN, DON’T TRY FOR SMALL BALL, THE MANAGER IS AT FAULT.
LETTING THE STARTING PITCHER HIT IN THE 6TH INNING AND THEN REMOVING THE SAME PITCHER THE NEXT 1/2 INNING BECAUSE HE WAS NOT PITCHING GOOD BEFORE HE BATTED. MANAGERS FAULT.
OVER USE OF BULLPEN STAFF.
CORPORATED GREED. I BELIEVE IF THINGS CONTINUE LIKE THIS, COME LATE JULY THEY WILL HAVE A LOT OF EMPTY SEATS AT THE TED.
BOBBY COX MAY BE A GREAT ORANGIZER, PUTTING THE RIGHT PEOPLE IN CHARGE OF THE BRAVES WHEN HE FIRST TOOK OVER, BUT HIS AMERICAN LEAGUE STYLE OF MANAGING HAS NEVER WORKED.
By W. E. SHOEMAKER
June 5, 2006 02:43 PM | Link to this
CAN’T BLAME THE HITTING COACH, WE HAVE HAD 4 DIFFERENT HITTING COACHES WITH THE SAME RESULTS, WAIT FOR A HOME RUN, DON’T TRY FOR SMALL BALL, THE MANAGER IS AT FAULT.
LETTING THE STARTING PITCHER HIT IN THE 6TH INNING AND THEN REMOVING THE SAME PITCHER THE NEXT 1/2 INNING BECAUSE HE WAS NOT PITCHING GOOD BEFORE HE BATTED. MANAGERS FAULT.
OVER USE OF BULLPEN STAFF.
CORPORATED GREED. I BELIEVE IF THINGS CONTINUE LIKE THIS, COME LATE JULY THEY WILL HAVE A LOT OF EMPTY SEATS AT THE TED.
BOBBY COX MAY BE A GREAT ORANGIZER, PUTTING THE RIGHT PEOPLE IN CHARGE OF THE BRAVES WHEN HE FIRST TOOK OVER, BUT HIS AMERICAN LEAGUE STYLE OF MANAGING HAS NEVER WORKED.
By KneeJerk
June 5, 2006 02:43 PM | Link to this
tman- I’m sure we can all find a couple of pitchers who have done well one-third of the way into the season and say that we should have signed them. You know what they say about hindsight. bravesfan, I disagree with you about Chipper Jones. I do not think he is a HOFer. He and the mystery player (jeter) that you compare him to are different players. Jeter is a SS, which is typically not the offensive threat of a corner infielder. Jeter is also the leader of his team. Is Chipper a leader. Oh yeah, as much as I despise everything NY, Jeter has a few more rings than Chipper. I know he may have a catchy name, and some of your daughter’s think he’s cute. But as of now, he isn’t a HOFer.
By Chop Chop
June 5, 2006 02:48 PM | Link to this
Dirty Dawg,
You apparently aren’t aware that most cities have lots of rabid sports fans who want their teams to win world titles. If you think Braves fans jumping on their team means they aren’t “knowledgeable, appreciative or classy”, fine. Just know that in most places where teams consistently make the playoffs but, in the end, fail to reward their fans with world titles, fans get angry or disinterested. That’s life. That is reality. If you don’t like it, don’t read the blogs, read the papers or listen to talk radio.
The sky hasn’t fallen, but the only positives for this team are the positives that we hope will come about (i.e, players becoming consistently better/more patient at the plate, the current crop of players in the pen getting better, the starters becoming consistently better, etc.). There’s nothing definitive (in a dead-certain positive way) about this team so far this year, and that’s scary for most fans.
By KneeJerk
June 5, 2006 02:51 PM | Link to this
“Bobby Cox’s style of manging has never worked”. Interesting.
By KneeJerk
June 5, 2006 02:53 PM | Link to this
managing, not manging
By Russ
June 5, 2006 02:53 PM | Link to this
Unfortunately we are not the Yankees and don’t have a owner who gives a damn. The cost cutting has finally caught up with us. I don’t blame the players becuase this is a low budget team. The Mets went out and got the players they needed. There was once a time when the Braves could “go get a couple of players,” but no longer.
It was a good ride………
By KneeJerk
June 5, 2006 02:56 PM | Link to this
Yeah Russ, it WAS a good ride. What’s the Mets magic number now? 98? Yeah, we’re done.
By Yogi
June 5, 2006 03:00 PM | Link to this
Chipper Jones compares favorably to Derek Jeter?
You’d better have either your urine checked, or your mental capacity determined!
That’s about the craziest thing I ever heard!
Chipper Jones’ will make the Hooters’ Hall of Fame, and the Braves Hall of Fame at Turner Field. As for Copperstown, they are making room for Derek Jeter’s plaque at this very moment.
By Yogi
June 5, 2006 03:02 PM | Link to this
Chipper Jones compares favorably to Derek Jeter?
You’d better have either your urine checked, or your mental capacity determined!
That’s about the craziest thing I ever heard!
Chipper Jones’ will make the Hooters’ Hall of Fame, and the Braves Hall of Fame at Turner Field. As for Cooperstown, they are making room for Derek Jeter’s plaque at this very moment.
By RealBravesFan
June 5, 2006 03:25 PM | Link to this
Chipper is more patient? This guy leaves more runners on base than anyone in baseball! Two weeks ago Frank Robinson had his pitcher intentionally walk Edgar Renteria to get to our fearless #3 hitter, Chipper Jones. Guess what happened? Mighty Chipper struck out !
Chipper Jones is a falling star, a player in a quick decline. He is no Hall of Famer! One MVP is not a free pass into Cooperstown!
By Beachdawg
June 5, 2006 03:31 PM | Link to this
Can anyone remember when at this time of year we were 6 games out……of 8th place???!!!! Success of any kind seems to spoil us all…me as well. I’d like to see them drop Chipper to 5th and bat Betemit 3rd. He’d get better pitches because of Andruw being behind him, and so on, and so on. I think the sting is gone in CJ’s bat, but he’s still been a good hitter. Too bad we got rid of pitcher Adam Wainright to St.Louis. He’s come on to help them loads, and I can’t remember what we got in exchange for him. It’s also sad that Ted won’t ride in on a buffalo and rescue this team that plays on his field…but he’s got worldlier issues. Tis true what one of the readers said…this is just a game, and no one had died. Beat everyone up, but I think the higher brass will make the right moves. Assuredly they don’t read these blogs, but they have to be as unhappy as we are.
Get rid of the closer, then, do the best you can with what you’ve got to work with.
By alan
June 5, 2006 03:32 PM | Link to this
Money doesn’t guarantee World Series rings………see NY Yankees. But, money does keep you competitive……see NY Yankees. I wish for once I had the power to give JS and BC a 200 million dollar budget for three years in a row just to see how it would shake out. Our problems are numerous. Just remember, you could live in Kansas City.
By alan
June 5, 2006 03:40 PM | Link to this
…you think Shultz actually reads these post and if so, does he ever respond?? Anybody know if one can e-mail him direct?? I love his stuff. And, whatever happened to Steve Hummer? I have been living in Connecticut for the last four months. Damn, I miss Georgia. Sorry to get off the subject.
By Braves Lover
June 5, 2006 03:45 PM | Link to this
Apparently I’m the only one that has seen that Marcus Giles has progressed steadily over the last month. His average is at .250 and rising. 3 hits yesterday and he broke up a key double play to allow a run to score, which in grand Reitsma-style didn’t matter. I’ll be back every day to keep you guys updated on his progress.
By Robert
June 5, 2006 03:45 PM | Link to this
“Any other city in the country a run such as this would have created such pride and fan loyalty”
WHAT accomplishments? Losing many times despite having far and away the best team?
Any other organization with this record of underachievement would’ve fired their donkey manager long ago
By David
June 5, 2006 03:46 PM | Link to this
ok well I do admit that the braves are playing horrible right now but i still dont think its time to say that its over the braves have been in situations like this before and they have always figured out a way to get out of them and the braves have always played better in the second half of the season so its still early to say that the braves are out of it.
By David
June 5, 2006 03:47 PM | Link to this
ok well I do admit that the braves are playing horrible right now but i still dont think its time to say that its over the braves have been in situations like this before and they have always figured out a way to get out of them and the braves have always played better in the second half of the season so its still early to say that the braves are out of it.
By David
June 5, 2006 03:48 PM | Link to this
ok well I do admit that the braves are playing horrible right now but i still dont think its time to say that its over the braves have been in situations like this before and they have always figured out a way to get out of them and the braves have always played better in the second half of the season so its still early to say that the braves are out of it.
By Ken Stallings
June 5, 2006 03:50 PM | Link to this
Tom Glavine Greg Maddux Kent Mercker
Three names who would solve our pitching problems immediately had the Time-Warner ownership group not decided to cut the salary level.
I suppose is can’t all be blamed on Time-Warner. Even when we had these pitchers to go with John Smoltz, the fans still did not fill the stadium.
But, the television money did help.
Now, the Braves games aren’t even generally available on DirecTV Extra Innings! You can thank the Braves’ latest contract with Turner Sports South for that one. So, sitting here in Las Vegas now, the Braves no longer welcome me watching them on pay-per-view packages!
Just as well, I guess. Watching this team might be too sad.
When you have the core talent to win, it’s very disheartening to see the purse strings tighten. Money doesn’t buy championships — just ask dear old George up north! But, money can preserve a championship team.
The hitting woes?
Well, I think that’s largely a result of too much self-applied pressure. With the ERA in the upper 5’s to 6’s depending upon who starts, the hitters figure they’ve got to hit a three-run homer in the first third of the game just to be in the game. The game doesn’t work well like that.
When you have the chance to keep Glavine, Maddux, and Mercer in the lineup you seize that chance and pay the money. Eventually, the players get old and retire. But, you don’t let ‘em out the back door because you’re too cheap to cough up a few extra Benjamins!
The Braves stink this year for one simple reason. The talent level in the bullpen and in the starting lineup is simply too weak compared to the better teams in the league. And this year, Bobby Cox despite being the best manager in baseball, can’t find enough smoke and mirrors to overcome that lack of talent!
Now we hear Time-Warner would rather sell the team as a package deal for stock options, rather than sell it to a dedicated local ownership group who actually cares. Ted Turner may have been a dedicated owner, but by selling the team to Time-Warner, he put the team on the slow slide to irrelevance.
Ken
By Robert
June 5, 2006 03:52 PM | Link to this
” The poor guy has got to be frustrated with the performance of his players. “
Yes, we can all tell Bobby Cox is frustrated by the way his tail and twitching and because his long donkey ears are pinned back
By Robert
June 5, 2006 03:54 PM | Link to this
” The poor guy has got to be frustrated with the performance of his players. “
Yes, we can all tell Bobby Cox is frustrated by the way his tail and twitching and because his long donkey ears are pinned back
By Tyler
June 5, 2006 03:58 PM | Link to this
Chuck CY James, Anthony Lerew and Jarrod Saltalamacchia those 3 will solve all problems before the end of the season so dont worry Plus they are all super cool lol hahahha GO BRAVES
By Robert
June 5, 2006 04:01 PM | Link to this
Here’s what CBS Sportsline has to say about the Braves
“The mood in the Braves clubhouse is officially somber, starting in the manager’s office, where Bobby Cox is increasingly tight-lipped and his responses, never lengthy, are becoming shorter by the game.”
Coming off the heels of a humiliating four game sweep by the visiting Arizona Diamondbacks, when asked about his team’s recurrent bullpen meltdowns, the anemic hitting of a number of the regulars, the lacksadaisical attitude of the team’s supposed leaders, and the Braves’ 10-24 record against any team that is even remotely considered a contender, Cox responded with an irritated “Hee-Haw” beofre rearing his back legs and kicking the offending reporter in the groin
By alan
June 5, 2006 04:02 PM | Link to this
I agree that we need dedicated LOCAL ownership so I have just one question. Who the hell watches arena football???? Come on Mr. Blank, buy our baseball team.
By Robert
June 5, 2006 04:18 PM | Link to this
Bobby’s comments about this being the worst series ever here got me thinking.
Worst series (forget about the here part for a moment)
Let’s see
The 96 World Series, where Bobby and company gloriously snatched defeat from the jaws of victory?
Or maybe it was the 99 World Series where we saw pretty clearly whether the Braves or the Yankees were the team of the 90’s.
The 98 NLCS against the Padres - now there was a good one
So was the 04 division series against the Astros. Well it was good for Houston in any case. First playoff series they ever won
No, you know, maybe the worst series in progress is this - 1 for 14 in the playoffs and nary a playoff series victory since 2001
Bobby, you’ve had so MANY bad series, how can you even remember them all?
By Elmo Jones
June 5, 2006 04:18 PM | Link to this
The Snakes are just better. Being swept is going to happen to most clubs. The best thing to do is move on and concentrate on playing little ball. The Nats are not very good and this part of the homestand is a blessing in disguise.
By p
June 5, 2006 04:19 PM | Link to this
wow, hall of fame coach bobby cox isn’t leading this team to victory?
By jimc
June 5, 2006 04:28 PM | Link to this
We need to remember we have a lot of young players and what young players need is guidance, I think we need a pitching AND batting coach. the hitters are swinging at anything and need to be taught patience. The pitchers have lost all confidence. I would bench Giles or better yet trade him for pitching, get rid of Orr, Reitsma, Oscar, Thompson and get the best we can for them. It is time for Cox to retire. He is too soft for today’s game.
By Robert
June 5, 2006 04:28 PM | Link to this
As for Chipper.
A player’s HOF candidacy is based on two factors - the first being his production/performance profile and the second being the sum of his peripherals
As a hitter, he is proven solid and consistant producer with alifetime average over .300 and a career adjusted OPS thru 2005 of 2001, which is solid HOF material
Good thing for him, because his peripherals dont amount to a stack of dung. Chipper’s defense is marginal, his baserunning approaches awful, his overall fundamentals are poor, his leadership skills are zero, his ability to elevate his team and those around him is minimal, and his attitude is miserable
Think of it this way. Dale Murphy was a really nice guy who never made it the HOF. Chipper Jones is a really big a*******hole who will
By Robert
June 5, 2006 04:33 PM | Link to this
As for Chipper.
A player’s HOF candidacy is based on two factors - the first being his production/performance profile and the second being the sum of his peripherals
As a hitter, he is proven solid and consistant producer with alifetime average over .300 and a career adjusted OPS thru 2005 of 141, which is solid HOF material
Good thing for him, because his peripherals dont amount to a stack of dung. Chipper’s defense is marginal, his baserunning approaches awful, his overall fundamentals are poor, his leadership skills are zero, his ability to elevate his team and those around him is minimal, and his attitude is miserable
I despise Chipper Jones. He struts around as if he has accomplished something. What he has accomplished in a team sport is to pad his stats while not making those around him any better. He is the Dominique Wilkins of pro baseball, the guy who “knows” he is as good as the real superstars and likes to tell everybody how good he is every chance he gets.
Dale Murphy was a really nice guy who never made it the HOF. Chipper Jones is an arrogant a*******hole who will
By the way, comparing a corner/outfielder to a middle infielder (Chipper to Jeter) to determine their relative HOF credentials is silly
By Jeff Schultz
June 5, 2006 04:35 PM | Link to this
Alan … I do read posts, but don’t respond as often as I should. I thought the world already had my e-mail address, but it’s jschultz@ajc.com. …. It’s been said here, but for what it’s worth the season isn’t over by a longshot. There are glaring problems: bullpen, leadoff hitter, strikeouts throughout the lineup, and depth of quality starting pitching. Division and playoff chances depend on how quickly and efficiently those problems can be fixed by Schuerholz and/or correct themselves. The bullpen is NOT going to correct itself. Help is needed. So we’ll see. I still think the race will go down to the last few weeks of the season. … Good comments all, even from those of you who want to see tire marks on my forehead. JS
By Jeff Schultz
June 5, 2006 04:37 PM | Link to this
Alan … I do read posts, but don’t respond as often as I should. I thought the world already had my e-mail address, but it’s jschultz@ajc.com. …. It’s been said here, but for what it’s worth the season isn’t over by a longshot. There are glaring problems: bullpen, leadoff hitter, strikeouts throughout the lineup, and depth of quality starting pitching. Division and playoff chances depend on how quickly and efficiently those problems can be fixed by Schuerholz and/or correct themselves. The bullpen is NOT going to correct itself. Help is needed. So we’ll see. I still think the race will go down to the last few weeks of the season. … Good comments all, even from those of you who want to see tire marks on my forehead. JS
By Robert
June 5, 2006 04:37 PM | Link to this
As for Chipper.
A player’s HOF candidacy is based on two factors - the first being his production/performance profile and the second being the sum of his peripherals
As a hitter, he is proven solid and consistant producer with alifetime average over .300 and a career adjusted OPS thru 2005 of 141, which is solid HOF material
Good thing for him, because his peripherals dont amount to a stack of dung. Chipper’s defense is marginal, his baserunning approaches awful, his overall fundamentals are poor, his leadership skills are zero, his ability to elevate his team and those around him is minimal, and his attitude is miserable. The Braves’ repeated underachievements during his tenure as nominal team leader is an idictment of his ability to elevate those around him
I despise Chipper Jones. He struts around as if he has accomplished something. He is the Dominique Wilkins of pro baseball, the guy who “knows” he is as good as the real superstars and likes to tell everybody how good he is every chance he gets.
That said, his offense has been good enough that he’d get my vote for the HOF. Did his offense achieve anything other than to pad his stas? No, but especially considering how relatively weak the HOF is at third base, like it or not, Chipper is headed towards enshrinement in Cooperstown
Dale Murphy was a really nice guy who never made it the HOF. Chipper Jones is an arrogant a*******hole who will
By the way, comparing a corner/outfielder to a middle infielder (Chipper to Jeter) to determine their relative HOF credentials is silly
By Rodger
June 5, 2006 04:49 PM | Link to this
Yeah, the Braves stink right now, but not as bad as all the spelling and grammar in these posts! An otherwise good point is overshadowed by apparent ignorance.
By Tomas
June 5, 2006 04:51 PM | Link to this
4 straight losses and everybody comes agaisnt you, why cant you be like the chicago cubs fans, they dont win a world series since 1908, and they keep fulling that stadium up with high expectatives that there team will win. Please have faith, yes the braves are going through a rough moment, but he only thing that conserms me its reitsma.
By GM R
June 5, 2006 04:52 PM | Link to this
While it is easy to blame individual players for poor results we should not forget the real villains here - Time Warner. I have little doubt that for the last couple of years JS has been taking one for the team by apparently losing out on signings/resignings when the truth of the matter is that he has been hamstrung by his corporate bosses and the budgets they have set. The current closer situation is a prime example - CR is not a closer, he is not paid as a closer, he is paid a a set-up guy - legit closers cost around $8M a year. JS says that Time Warner aren’t stopping him from getting a closer now, but what about during the winter? As I understand it the choice came down to a closer or a shortstop. When MH went down for the year JS made all the right noises about faith in the starting pitchers but ask yourself this - what happens if Smoltz goes down injured? - you can kiss the season goodbye, that’s what. At any previous time in his stint as GM JS would have brought in a new, experienced starter under the same circumstances - you need 3 strong starters in case one goes down. Think back to the year before - JS was supposed to be negotiating for Drew - yea right - he had to make a bid so the fans wouldn’t complain but there was no chance the Braves would match the Dodgers. Same this year for Furcal. Here’s the bottom line - JS has to make out he is competing for the best talent in order to keep the fans happy but it is a con job. Time Warner has no financial incentive to invest anything but the least it can get away with - that’s corporate America for you folks. This team will not win anything again until it is sold. Hats of to JS and BC - Time Warner has forced them to take some huge risks over the last 2 years - several have paid off big time, particularly with the young talent brought into the team - some have failed miserably, like bringing in Joey Devine before he was anywhere near ready, CR and DK as closers, and who could forget Mondesi? Personally I think the time is fast approaching for us to boycott the Braves to force the suits at Time Warner to get out of town and stop playing us for suckers.
By D.S.
June 5, 2006 04:57 PM | Link to this
One thing you can always count on in one of these things is there’s always going to be a bunch of a-holes who criticize us for venting our frustrations. They get a power trip out of telling us we’ll never be major league fans or that we have no right to complain because of this or that.
For all of those who feel the need to be one of those people, I feel the need to tell you to STICK IT UP YOUR A**. Now go play with the little dancing, amiling animals in the merry jellybean village and never sign in to an AJC Braves blog again.
Thank you.
By Rodger
June 5, 2006 05:06 PM | Link to this
D.S.- Are we to assume that stands for dumb S**T? Otherwise, lets try to be civil.
By D.S.
June 5, 2006 05:12 PM | Link to this
Stick it, Roger. I’m sick of your ilk.
By Robert
June 5, 2006 05:17 PM | Link to this
Jellybean village?
By CrazyHorse
June 5, 2006 06:16 PM | Link to this
Why do you retards feel the need to post every comment 2 or 3 damn times…..damn ignorant buffoons…..the damn Braves ain’t getting anybody…..they’re for sale for cryin’ out loud!!!…
By alan
June 5, 2006 06:34 PM | Link to this
Girls, girls, girls,………be civil.
By Mike
June 5, 2006 07:03 PM | Link to this
I cannot believe some of the comments Im reading…I understand that people are frustrated, I have been watching the braves since 91 and I have never seen them play this poorly…Lets not forget that just two years ago the braves were six games below 500 on july six and they came back…Dont throw chipper aside just yet…hes still got something left in the tank…And for people questioning his will to win and attitude who was it that restructured their contract in the offseason and is playing for much less?…yea, hes very selfish, how many times have u seen any professional athlete renogiate their contract for less money…I agree completely about the bullpen stinking it up…there is not one positive to this year’s bullpen…give schurholtz a chance to work his magic…i dont think hes helped win 14 straight division titles because of sheer luck…Adam Laroche is garbage, and I will never defend him in any way…The starting pitching has a chance to be very good still…Smoltzie and Hudson will bring it as the season goes on…If Ramirez proves that these last two starts were not a fluke then he could be among the best number 3’s in baseball…Lets not forget Chuck James and Kyle Davies will be back..I do believe in Marcus Giles, he always hit in every full season that hes played…I see no reason why he wont again…Schuerholtz will make a big move somewhere along the line to booster the bullpen and lets not forget Mccann will be back soon and stroking it like he had before he got hurt..I may be one of the only optimistic people right now in this blog but in reality the braves have played as badly as they possibly can and they are only 6 games back…The mets arent invisible and the Braves will claim what is rightfully theirs…A 15th straight division title
By Ronald
June 5, 2006 07:34 PM | Link to this
I don’t know what to think. At least in 1988, the Braves were only 17-33 at this point after a 0-10 start.
However, with this disastrous bullpen, I do miss Charlie Puleo, Jim Acker, Paul Assenmacher,Jeff Dedmon, Gene Garber, and Ed Olwine. Those pithcers were real men. Men who would pitch their guts out, unlike these dead arm softball lobbers we have now.
By Steve Fazekas
June 5, 2006 09:37 PM | Link to this
Why are Braves fans such whiners? I have been reading all negative blogs here. How many teams in not only Major league baseball, but all of pro sports have won 14 consecutive divisions? One! Braves fans it is a long season and we’re only 6 games out! Leave it up to Bobby Cox, and we will be there in the end there is alot of talent on this team.
By Tomas
June 5, 2006 10:39 PM | Link to this
you know why people are these frusturated, because the braves have won 14 straight divisions and its weird that theyre losing. They have a tradition which is winning.
By Tomas
June 5, 2006 10:51 PM | Link to this
what i dont understand is why do the mets have more money than the braves since they never win a division. I do agree that the braves need to do some changes, for example change Chris Reitsma who is worse than Dan Kolb, change adam laroche. Laroche is struggiling streaky guy but his doesnt provide in th clutch, and we could put chipper in first base and beitemit in third. We trade laroche and langerthans for an allstar outfielder.
By Tomas
June 5, 2006 10:59 PM | Link to this
Maybe a trade we could trade Laroche, Langerthans, and Reitsma for leadoff guy and utility man Chone figins, and Francisco Rodrigez.
By ronald
June 5, 2006 11:06 PM | Link to this
The real problem is ownership. I pray every day that the braves will be sold to Mr. Blank. It is painfully obvious that unless some deals are made we are going nowhere. Sadly, the current ownership will not allow the money to be spent to do what needs to be done.
Someone please tell send Reitsma so far away from Atlanta that he couldn’t find his way back with GPS.
By Head Coach
June 6, 2006 02:36 AM | Link to this
No defense , way to many strikeouts , inconsistent offense , streaky hitters , REEKSMA ,injurys , overpaid veterans , etc,etc, etc. ……… But here is a real clue to the season so far. 13-4 against teams with a losing record and 15-26 against teams with a winning record. Thats called NON-COMPETITIVE against equal or better competition. Time too pull the plug…… SERIOUSLY , a fire sale is in order , rip it apart , call up the kids , trade for some young talent or draft picks and start the rebuilding process before this team wastes more of the season. This team is way too talented to be getting kicked around like this , they are playing way below their talent ability , pull the plug , rebuild. Its time to face reality.
By Jimbo
June 6, 2006 02:54 AM | Link to this
Way to go Roach. Great fielding and clutch hitting. The big stiff cost us another game.