Sports Columnists

By rawr

August 27, 2006 07:31 PM | Link to this

you speak the truth, jeff. its good to see somebody not afraid of criticizing the “homeboy upstairs,” especially in defense of the heart of this team.

too bad JS tried to slide by with a crappy bullpen again. otherwise, smoltz would be in serious cy young contention with 15-18 wins already.

By ol'sport

August 27, 2006 07:36 PM | Link to this

What a shame. John Smoltz has been the one constant for the Braves this year as well as other years. He is certainly an intelligent guy and deserves better. I am disappointed in JS, feeling he has more class and certainly better judgement. Perhaps, since he’s the boss, he should sit down with Smoltz and get the air cleared. What would the Braves have done, record wise, without Smoltz this year. Come on JS. Be the man we all perceive you to be!

By Al

August 27, 2006 07:46 PM | Link to this

Braves are going the way of the Yankees back in the 60’s. CBS bought the Yankees for a tax write-off and it looks like the same thing is happening with Liberty Media. CBS ran the Yankees into the ground and turned them into one of the worst teams in baseball for ten years in the late 60’s and early 70’s. The Yanks did not come back until Steinbrenner bought the team. Looks like history is repeating itself.

By Johnny

August 27, 2006 07:53 PM | Link to this

If I had the choice between Smoltz or Schuerholtz I’d take Smoltz. Smoltz is the leader of the team on and off of the field. And I feel like Smoltz is saying things that need to be said. He has the teams best interest at heart and he is a competetor that wants to win. I appreciate what Schuerholtz has accompolished for the team but I do not go to the game to cheer on Schuerholtz.

By Nick at nite

August 27, 2006 07:59 PM | Link to this

I am so tired of John Smoltz and his self-serving, self-righteous statements. Everyone in the organization and every fan with half a brain knows he would have been much more valuable in the bullpen the last two years.

But apparently what Smoltz wants, Smoltz gets. It’s no wonder that Schuerholz has some mixed feelings about him.

I’m also tired of the hero-worshippers who insist Smoltz’s record should be much better this year. They are probably the same people who talk to their John Smoltz bobbleheads at night in their mom’s basement.

True, the bullpen has blown several saves. It’s also true the Braves hitters have gotten him off the hook for a number of losses.

I, for one, would not be sorry to see him play his last few seasons elsewhere.

By Clyde

August 27, 2006 08:05 PM | Link to this

Schuerholtz has to go. He’s making bad decisions and now his players are turning against him. His latest trade(Betemit for Beaz) was ignit. I say sell the team to Auther Blank and let him clean house in management and keep our young talent.

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By skeezix

August 27, 2006 08:05 PM | Link to this

If I were the owner, I would cut homeboy before I’d trade Smoltzie. Smoltz has always been clutch whereas homeboy has done a lousy job for two years in a row-especially with the pitching. Plus he, who is suppose to be so good at evaluating talent, gave up Dye, Glavine, Maddux, and now Betemit. I wouldn’t be surprised to find out that he’s the reason Leo split.If homeboy wants to know why we are one of the worst teams in the bigs, he only has to look at himself….

By Don

August 27, 2006 08:07 PM | Link to this

Dead on, Smoltz has a very good year, Scheurholz, a sucky one. Maybe Schuerholz is the option management shouldn’t pick up. We are beginning to look like the Royals of the late 80’/early 90’s, aging veterans and a dilapidated farm system and look at where they still are. Maybe it’s time to move in a different direction.

By Dawgs2006

August 27, 2006 08:14 PM | Link to this

Nick at nite: You are right. I would not be sorry to see Smoltz playing somewhere else next season. In fact, I would like nothing better. Smoltz does not deserve this garbage. He is a winner and the Braves are no longer building for success. As for Smoltz in the bullpen, he would have only made a hand full of appearances since the starters on the staff are so horrible. With all things considered, you have shown everyone what an idiot you are.

By KC

August 27, 2006 08:15 PM | Link to this

Smoltz is just speaking out of frustration. He doesn’t have anything against JS, and I’m sure that Smoltz recognizes the job that Shuerholz has done here for the last 14 years.

Jeff Schultz on the other hand, does seem to have some kind of beef with JS that I really can’t figure. This isnt’t the first of his columns that seem to cast the Braves’ GM in an unfavorable light.

John Shuerholz is the best in the business… period. Smoltz’s option will be exercised, and everything will work out there. It’s a non-issue.

By Mac

August 27, 2006 08:17 PM | Link to this

Refreshing to hear the truth. How in the world can anyone JS included treat someone who’s meant so much to this team over the years. He is by far your best starter this year and much better than any pitcher JS has ever traded for.

I’m afraid after watching our minor league teams over the last few years and watching this pitiful team put together this year that JS has finally done for us what he accomplished in his final years with Kansas City. Unless some major changes are made I don’t see us returning to the pinnacle of the previous years for a long long time.

By mountain_jim

August 27, 2006 08:18 PM | Link to this

Good for Smoltz for speaking up.

“Schuerholz responded to Smoltz’s comments in July this way: “There’s a lot of people volunteering to be assistant general managers. He’s just the latest.”

When he said that, I realized for the first time that he is an a**hole. And Schuerholz is the reason the Braves crapped out this year no closer for too long blew the season.

By fjensen

August 27, 2006 08:19 PM | Link to this

Davies pitched 8 innings of shutout in Richmond today. He is ready for Atlanta. Ditch Yates, play McBride in 7th.

By BirdDawg

August 27, 2006 08:22 PM | Link to this

Nothing matters as long Booby Cox is choking in the dugout.

Until that clutch loser is gone, this team will never win another World Series.

By Andrew

August 27, 2006 08:23 PM | Link to this

Schuerholz is a Yankees type of GM. He is good when he has a lot of wiggle room and a lot of room for error. But he’s not good on a fixed budget because he always waits until the last minute to get a deal done “under the radar” and that doesn’t work when the other teams know you only have a certain amount to spend.

It used to be “oh, the Braves want this guy and they may increase their payroll a few million to get him” but now it’s “ha, the Braves can’t afford him” but Schuerholz hasn’t adapated and gone into the market early enough to have a legitimate backup plan. Now teams like the Tigers and Reds are putting their best offer out there early and there is nothing left for the guys like Schuerholz … he’s trying to be sneaky when every other teams knows what payroll he has and that it won’t change one bit because of ownership.

By Beach Dawg

August 27, 2006 08:25 PM | Link to this

Ugh, I appreciate Smoltz — he is truly one of the greats and certainly one of the prime reasons this season has not been more of a disaster. However, I am now hearing disention from the players for the first time. A really bad sign that does not bode well for the future. While all may not have be a bed of roses in the past everyone pretended, at least publically, that it was.

By Skydawg

August 27, 2006 08:27 PM | Link to this

If Schuerholz doesnt offer Smoltz the option year, I’ll personally run his A$$ out of town myself. I’m so tired of that egotistical, self-serving SOB I could puke.

By SAL

August 27, 2006 08:28 PM | Link to this

Hmmm, let’s see who do the Braves need back, Smoltz or Sheurholz? A hall of fame pitcher (only solid starter on team) or a GM happy with 1 championship and 14 division titles that drafted his non-prospect son? Well, after a nano-second of deliberation, good-bye Sheurholz. By the way, you can take your minor league bullpen, your son and Bobby with you. Be sure not to let the door hit you in the a$$ on the way out.

Hey Nick at nite, seems I recall Smoltz being the only one of the big 3 (Glavine and Maddox the others) that said “I’ll take less to stay in Atlanta” and did it. He could have gone to the Yankees and maybe had another WS ring. I don’t think any semi-intelligent person (this may exclude you) can attack the man’s character.

By JJMB

August 27, 2006 08:47 PM | Link to this

John Smoltz has done every damn (sorry, John) thing this org has asked of him. And he has done it brilliantly. He knows his arm and body better that anyone else. If he wants the start, then he STARTS. Keep him happy, Schuerholz.

By Sane Jane

August 27, 2006 08:47 PM | Link to this

One thing is for certain; few on this blog will be winning any spelling bees anytime soon.

With that said, Schuerholz needs to pick up that option. 8 mill for Smoltz is a bargain.

By Sane Jane

August 27, 2006 08:49 PM | Link to this

One thing is for certain; few on this blog will be winning any spelling bees anytime soon.

With that said, Schuerholz needs to pick up that option. 8 mill for Smoltz is a bargain.

By Stan

August 27, 2006 08:49 PM | Link to this

At the rate JS is going the ex Brave personel Dean Taylor, Picolo, etc. will have the Royals passing the Braves in a few years!!

By Stan

August 27, 2006 08:50 PM | Link to this

At the rate JS is going the ex Brave personel Dean Taylor, Piccolo, etc. will have the Royals passing the Braves in a few years!!

By Champ

August 27, 2006 08:55 PM | Link to this

Smoltz has nothing to lose unlike younger players, even the Jones boys. John’s career is nearing the end he as nothing to lose, so he is a good judge of how the players feel. Thanks for speaking up and being a leader John. JS has made some studip decision this past year. Unwilling in the off-season to overpay for a much needed closer, he gave up the present, then in despiration JS gives away the future by giving away Benemit for a rent an old underperforming pitcher whose contributions will never compensate for what they gave up. Doesn’t make sense that he would not get what he needed then because it was overpaying yet now he will overcompensate the Dodgers when the season was in serious doubt. Should of traded JS when his stock was up.

By TONE-TONE

August 27, 2006 08:56 PM | Link to this

EVERY ONE NEED TO TAKE A DEEP BREATH AND CALM DOWN. LOSING BRING THIS KIND OF ATTENTION. IF THE BRAVES WERE WINNING, IT WOULD BE A DIFFERENT STORY. SOONER OR LATER, THE RUN HAD TO END. LET’S TAKE IT WITH GRACE.

JS HAS A BOSS. HE HAS A BUDGET. IF HE HAS TO TRADE SMOLTZ, THEN HE WILL BE TRADED. THE BRAVES NEEDS SET UP, MIDDLE, AND LONG RELIEF. SMOLTZ CAN BRING THEM THAT. THEY CAN TAKE THEIR CHANCES WITH HAMPTON,HUDSON, RAMIREZ,JAMES,AND DAVIES.

ALSO, THEY SHOULD TRADE ANDREW JONES, MARCUS GILES, TYLER YATES FOR A LEGITAMATE LEFT FIELDER AND BULL PEN HELP. MOVE FRANCOUER TO CENTER AND DIAZ TO RIGHT.

SO, LET’S ACCEPT THIS SEASON AND USE THE FAMOUS “LET’S WAIT TILL NEXT YEAR”, PHRASE. IT IS TOO LATE THIS YEAR. JUST ABOUT ALL THE TEAMS AHEAD OF THE BRAVES IN THE WILD CARD, WILL BE PLAYING EACH OTHER. IT’S HARD TO GAIN GROUND. THE ONLY WAY THE BRAVES CAN EVEN HOPE TO GET IN, THEY WILL HAVE TO WIN EIGHT TO TEN GAMES IN A ROW. WITH THAT MIDDLE RELIEF,ESPECIALLY TYLER YATES, IT WOULD BE IMPOSSIBLE.

IT ALWAYS SEEM THAT JUST WHEN YOU THINK YOU HAVE GOTTEN RID OF ONE OF THOSE MINOR LEAGUER, HERE COMES ANOTHER THAT COX JUST SEEM TO BE STUCK ON. GET RID OF REITSMA AND HERE COMES MR. YATES. PORONTO IS WAITING ON DECK AND IN THE HOLE IS MCBRIDE.

By mike

August 27, 2006 08:57 PM | Link to this

I know I would be a complete wreck waiting to know if my employer was going to pick up my $8,000,000 option for next year too Smoltzie. Of course the reason I would be nervous would be because I might be getting an 8,000% raise next year.

By Champ

August 27, 2006 08:58 PM | Link to this

Smoltz has nothing to lose unlike younger players, even the Jones boys. John’s career is nearing the end he as nothing to lose, so he is a good judge of how the players feel. Thanks for speaking up and being a leader John. JS has made some studip decision this past year. Unwilling in the off-season to overpay for a much needed closer, he gave up the present, then in despiration JS gives away the future by giving away Benemit for a rent an old underperforming pitcher whose contributions will never compensate for what they gave up. Doesn’t make sense that he would not get what he needed then because it was overpaying yet now he will overcompensate the Dodgers when the season was in serious doubt. Should of traded JS when his stock was up.

By Yars

August 27, 2006 09:01 PM | Link to this

Smoltz is having a good season, and he is p** off that the Braves are awful, and that the front office made some moves a little too late. If the Braves don’t pick up next years contract on Smoltz, that will tell the fans that they don’t expect to be in contention for a long time. The NL is so weak this season, I won’t be shocked at whoever wins the NL wildcard wins it 1 game over .500. If the Braves lose the wildcard finishing 2-3 games out, boy that would stink.

By Del

August 27, 2006 09:05 PM | Link to this

My guess is that you could add CJ, AJ and MG to the list of players who are less than thrilled with JS’s performance the past two years(and you might be able to add BC to that list).

This might be an interesting poll for AJC to run!!

By Sane Jane

August 27, 2006 09:07 PM | Link to this

Tone, your comments make no sense (plus, the ALL CAPS is annoying).

Smoltz can’t be traded for like 7 different reasons - he’s a 10/5 guy for starters. He’s in the final year of his contract - if the Braves don’t pick up his option, he walks as a free agent. He won’t pass through waivers.

Sheesh. I’m sorry to be harsh, but that was a really really poorly informed post. Read up & then come back, eh? And “Caps Lock” - it’s right above Shift.

By Local Yokel

August 27, 2006 09:08 PM | Link to this

Smoltz is the heart and soul of The Atlanta Braves. Only a fool would not pick up his option. Let’s hope JS has not become a fool!

By T

August 27, 2006 09:09 PM | Link to this

If you ask him, “Homeboy” is just a mouthpiece for the decision makers above him… In the past he has received much more praise than deserved. “Homeboy” has allowed some of Atlanta’s best sports performers to part ways with our city in the last several years for many reasons. Well, Smoltz is one of the last in a fading group of Braves stars.

What’s is gonna take before the Atlanta fans demand that not another star leaves the Braves?

Direct all plea’s to “Homeboy” in the front office of the Braves. Mr. Smoltz, please do not go to another team. It will break a lot of Braves fans hearts. If you must, good luck and know that there are several people who know what is going on at Turner Field.

By Dave

August 27, 2006 09:30 PM | Link to this

I’ve been an admirer or the GM (whose name I can’t spell) for most of his tenure here but, to be charitable, I think it’s time for him to retire. He killed any chance for success this year by waiting way too long to fix the bullpen. He could have gone to Chipper last winter and talked about a contract restructure to save some money and landed Wickman or Wagner at that time. Basically, what he’s accomplished this year is to tick off Smoltz, Andruw, Glavine, and god knows how many others. I think Bobby would stay on as GM and might even welcome the change, given his age. Bobby would be better than JS to pick the next manager, that’s for sure.

Time to take your book signings on the road, JS, permanently.

By Jorge

August 27, 2006 09:32 PM | Link to this

I, for many, wish to see John Smoltz’s option exercised. He has earned the honor of being the one player worthy of playing out his time in Atlanta. The fact that he has been the constant throughout our fabulous run is appropriate. No other player has shown more talent, courage, grit, and class than Smoltz. He is the best face of the franchise during the past sixteen years; only Dale Murphy and Phil Niekro rival his name as an Atlanta Brave.

However, even Smoltz will agree that mortgaging the future for the mistakes/ miscalculations of “homeboy’s” moves this year carry a caveat. It hurt tremendously that Blaine Boyer, John Foster, Chris Reitsma, Mike Hampton, Kyle Davies, the oft-injured John Thomson, and his twin brother Horacio Ramirez were all injured. The loss of these players created a domino effect that decimated the entire pitching staff - from starters to bullpen. During our run, no edition of this team has ever experienced such horrid luck with pitching injuries. Thanks to the disaster created by these injuries, we lost Wilson Betemit, a trade that will hurt us deeply.

As much as Edgar Renteria has been an asset to the team, I would have never traded Andy Marte for him; I would have taken my chances with Betemit at short this season - limited range and all - and had Marte for the near future. All Chipper Jones has done recently is show a penchant for getting hurt a lot and show the wear and tear of his years. His feet are not going to get any better, and Andy Marte’s time would’ve been now, what with the nucleus of this team being built on youth.

Andruw’s time is short, also. It is no secret that his periodic bouts with complacency, as well as his lack of overall hustle, have been a source of total consternation to Bobby Cox and his team- mates. His knee problem is chronic, and it will not get any better. It is his time now to move on also, to get some value in return. Ryan Langerhans will never be Andruw in his prime; that said, he is a grinder, a hustle guy, and a very good defensive outfielder who can be a good leadoff hitter.

Marcus Giles is also injury-prone. While he has been a Cox favorite, and is a good team guy, a platoon of Martin Prado/Tony Peña/Willy Aybar will in the long run be a greater asset to the team than Giles could ever be.

Of all the trades made in the past year, I fear that the trades of Betemit and Marte will be spoken of in the same breath as the Jeff Bagwell trade fifteen years from now, and that will come back to haunt JS for years to come, to say nothing of the tarnish on his legacy. It truly was a pair of bad trades by any measure, and I would be hard-pressed to forgive such carelessness.

Yes, John, you are competitive. Yet, as an Atlanta Brave first, even you will admit that mortgaging the future is always an unforgivable sin under any circumstance. However, the bigger mistake would be to not sign you so you may end your career in the uniform you were born to wear all the way to the Hall of Fame.

By R.E.H.

August 27, 2006 09:34 PM | Link to this

Please let’s not make the same mistake that we made with two other of the finest pitchers of the last twenty years, this one would hurt so much more. The yankees would pay at least two to three times more. George has been after John for years. By the way does any one else see the Yankees payroll being a half billion dollars in the next few years besides me!

By R.E.H.

August 27, 2006 09:35 PM | Link to this

Please let’s not make the same mistake that we made with two other of the finest pitchers of the last twenty years, this one would hurt so much more. The yankees would pay at least two to three times more. George has been after John for years. By the way does any one else see the Yankees payroll being a half billion dollars in the next few years besides me!

By alan

August 27, 2006 09:38 PM | Link to this

Relax, everyone, and that includes you, too, John Smoltz. John Schuerholz never negotiates with players (or their agents) during the season, and he’s unlikely to do it this year, either. Shortly after the Braves’ season ends (no postseason, apparently, despite Smoltz’s excellent work), Schuerholz will exercise Smoltz’s contract extension for another season. Book it. He may even do it before the season officially ends if (I can’t bring myself to write “when”} the Braves are mathematically eliminated from the wild card race. But he will do it. John Smoltz isn’t going anywhere.

By Dennis

August 27, 2006 09:44 PM | Link to this

Wow! I became a fan of baseball in the early 50’s with the Atlanta Crackers and saw the first regular season game played at Fulton County Stadium. I makes me nauseous to read most of this claptrap. In Chicago the team is an habitual loser and yet they fill the stadium and live and die for the Cubbies. In Atlanta, after 14 wonderful seasons, the inevitable happened…the Braves have had an ordinary season. Schuerholz and Cox are certainly instrumental in the successes and of course equally responsible for some bad decisions. Smoltz is old enough and wise enough to avoid saying what he did in public…especially to Schultz, who does what he can to stir up trouble. If you want to look at a source of dissension, look no further than the writer of this blog.

By Dennis

August 27, 2006 09:45 PM | Link to this

Wow! I became a fan of baseball in the early 50’s with the Atlanta Crackers and saw the first regular season game played at Fulton County Stadium. I makes me nauseous to read most of this claptrap. In Chicago the team is an habitual loser and yet they fill the stadium and live and die for the Cubbies. In Atlanta, after 14 wonderful seasons, the inevitable happened…the Braves have had an ordinary season. Schuerholz and Cox are certainly instrumental in the successes and of course equally responsible for some bad decisions. Smoltz is old enough and wise enough to avoid saying what he did in public…especially to Schultz, who does what he can to stir up trouble. If you want to look at a source of dissension, look no further than the writer of this blog.

By TONE-TONE

August 27, 2006 09:47 PM | Link to this

OK Sane Jane. Sorry for the caps.But I can understand your frustrations. I have been a Braves fan before you were borned! Anybody can be traded, so what if he has a 10/5. That does not mean he can not be traded. What it means, is that he can try and veto the trade. You should read up on that. I hate to be harsh. It is time for the braves to rebuild. You must own your own business and not work for someone. J.S. do not own the BRAVES. He have to answer to someone else! You should stick to sewing and leave this stuff to real fans!

By R.E.H.

August 27, 2006 09:47 PM | Link to this

If the organization some how did not continue with John they would have made the same mistake three times in last ten years. You all have been watching, their performances haven’t been done in a closet . These are three of the finest pitchers in the last twenty-five years, of course I am speaking also of Tom and Greg who just keep rolling along. I am not so naive to think that money wasn’t a big reason why they weren’t resigned. George easily pay three times the figure being discussed. By the way does anyone else also believe that the Yanks payroll will be at a half billion dollars in the next few years.

By desertbrave

August 27, 2006 09:48 PM | Link to this

Shut up John. You get paid to throw 100 pitches every 5 days…. Big whup. If you had stayed in the bullpen would we be here? Nope. The team gave you what you wanted. The team also gave you what you wanted when you sucked and your arm was falling off. Oh I suppose that was for the good of the team too? I am tired of these athletes losing touch with reality.

By Dave

August 27, 2006 10:01 PM | Link to this

Half a billion yankee payroll in the next few years? Probably not, but $300M yes, and that will only continue and increase the gap (and results in the standings) between the haves and have nots. Sad, whatever happened to the “best interest of baseball” clause in the commish’s job description? Even the weaker market clubs don’t complain any more because more and more tv money keeps them afloat (while their franchise value keeps going up).

By JJMB

August 27, 2006 10:14 PM | Link to this

desertbrave, your brains have fried in your burned-out trailer. There is a reason desert rats were chased out into the sandy abyss. You are ample proof of this axiom.

By Greg

August 27, 2006 10:23 PM | Link to this

First thing first, the Braves players through the 1991-2005 run are the reasons why the haven’t produced more WS titles. Smoltz is frustrated that the Braves haven’t made any moves to help the team and have discussed his future with the Braves. The Braves act like they ain’t got no money to buy talent. Maybe since when they bought a lot of talent it didn’t produce a lot of WS titles;They are afraid to take a financial risk of buying players to get over the hump. Schurholz’s decisions have helped the Braves as much as it has hurt the Braves period. I wish Bobby Cox would move to being GM and JS serve another organization, he needs to go back to Kansas City where his organization won a WS back in 1985. His knowledge of getting talent and that talent to turn an organization around can help the Royals badly!!!!!!!

By Jeff

August 27, 2006 10:41 PM | Link to this

THE REAL PROBLEM IS NOT SCHUERHOLZ OR SMOLTZ!

The problem is that the Braves are still owned by a New York-based corporate conglomerate that cares nothing about the Braves except how much they can sell them for to another corporate conglomerate.

We need to stop blaming each other and as Atlantans we need to demand that something that is truly based in Atlanta actually buy this team and be willing to pay for it to succeed.

Perhaps we should just start boycotting the games?

By Sane Jane

August 27, 2006 10:44 PM | Link to this

10/5 players don’t “try” to veto the trade.. they do veto the trade (if they so chose).

But he STILL has to pass through waivers… so he wouldn’t be going to Detroit or NYY… other scrub teams would put a claim on him faster than you can misspell “born”. Do you see “John Smoltz, Kansas City Royal”?

Blech.

All I’m saying is that your assertion that “John Smoltz needs to be traded” is nonsense… logistically, it’s just not gonna happen. If anything, he walks as a free agent.

All Schuerholz is doing is waiting till the last possible minute to pick up his option, in case Smoltz blows his elbow out or has some other freak injury before the end of the season. It’s a shrewd move; undoubtedly the proper business move… it just stinks from a fan’s perspective.

By the way… that “someone else” Schuerholz reports to (for now, until the sale is complete) is Terry McGuirk, President of the club. Since you asked.

But I’m just a chick; maybe I should stick to sewing.

By Louis Vales

August 27, 2006 10:45 PM | Link to this

Hurry up and sign him there “Homeboy” especially after he blasts you and then watch after he gets a nice fat deal at his age he does his Pavano, Burnett, Clement, Gagne impersonation, and want to bet he doesn’t give any of it back?? Sign up HOMEBOY, man John(the HOMEBOY JOHN) if you let him punk you like that might as well head for Waycross. Homeboy!!! Unbelievable!!!!

By Jeremius Shakazulu Abul El-Alamin Muhamid

August 27, 2006 10:55 PM | Link to this

Jeff, you’re right. Does anyone think a bunch of yankees in NY give a damn about Atlanta winning a world series? Yeah, they cared when the concept was lining their pockets, but now they want to sell. Pussyass commissioner Seleg (downhill since Bart Giomanni died -GRHS)will do anything for a buck. Do you think he will stand in the way of a stock swap deal that leaves Atlanta twisting in the wind? I doubt it. If he can’t stand up to Barry Bonds, he won’t stop Liberty Media.

By Head coach

August 27, 2006 10:59 PM | Link to this

If Smoltz wasnt coming back Schuerholz would have traded him before the deadline. His option will be picked up because too not trade him and then let him go in free agency for nothing more than a sandwich pick(between the 1st and 2nd round) would be career suicide for Schuerholz.

By John Schuerholtz

August 27, 2006 11:00 PM | Link to this

Everyone, please get off of my back. I drafted my son three years ago even though he couldn’t hit .300 at Auburn. No one else would draft him so I took him in the 17th round to make his mom happy and give him a chance. He still can’t hit and is stuck in class A ball so now I have to run the team into the ground so he can get called up to the show. Once he finally plays in a big league game, I will retire and turn things over to someone who has a clue what they are doing and will finally get a decent second baseman, leadoff hitter, and a relief pitcher that we didn’t pick up from a construction site on 400.

By Caroline

August 27, 2006 11:01 PM | Link to this

There are two pitchers the Braves need back next year - John Smoltz and Bob Wickman. Get it done JS!!

By JJMB

August 27, 2006 11:04 PM | Link to this

Sane Jane, I knew that “sewing” thing would rile you. ouch.

By burt

August 27, 2006 11:09 PM | Link to this

after putting togather the present bullpen for 2006 mr. schuerholz,let me share with you a story about a hard working FARMER. “the farmer says if you want good clean oats for your horse, you have to pay a fair price,but if you want the oats that has already been thru the horse, then you can get them a whole lots cheaper”. if smoltz isn’t resigned, it will be a sad day for atlanta. if smoltzs get on the free market 29 other teams is gonna want to know HOW MUCH. the bidden will start at 8 mil.

By Cdaddy

August 27, 2006 11:09 PM | Link to this

I never had thought I would have felt this way, but based on at least this year’s performance, perhaps it is time that Schuerholz be replaced. Perhaps next to only the infamous trade for Len Barker, the trade of Wilson Betemit to LA for a yet to prove himself 24 year old infielder and a (another) lame relief pitcher is not only bad, it makes me wonder what Schuerholz has been taking. Damn!

By Sane Jane

August 27, 2006 11:11 PM | Link to this

Sorry, I couldn’t resist.

I love how a dude who doesn’t even understand the fundamentals of player/contract movement is going to tell me that I don’t know what I’m talking about.

Fellas, please.

By Spike

August 27, 2006 11:14 PM | Link to this

That there is no love lost betweeen Smoltz and his GM isn’t news, and Smoltz has been around Atlanta long enough to earn the right to criticize management for not responding to needs. All during the off season the talk was the need for a closer and bullpen help, and look what we ended up with. I’m not ragging the bullpen because they are guys just like you and I trying to make a living. Tyler Yates had pitched less than 10 innings in two years and was brought to the bigs…is that his fault? Ken Ray had no success to speak of and was in a semi pro league last year and made the team out of spring training and has done remarkably well even though he’s tiring after all the work this year. Where were Paronto, Mc Bride, Villareal? For the most part we got what we paid for.The point is, if Smoltz doesn’t speak up we’ll end up next year writing the same crap, so I applaud Smoltzie for being outspoken and I hope Chipper gets on the wagon also, then management and ownership will have to listen. As pointed out earlier, the scariest part of all of this is the new ownership and their committment to winning.

By Jason

August 27, 2006 11:14 PM | Link to this

What is the difference to Smoltz if JS picks up his option now or two months from now? JS seems handcuffed when has only a $95million budget. He has poorly allocated his budget by severely over paying players. Can you imagine the $15million Marlins if they had a $95million payroll? They might win 130 games.

By LAC

August 27, 2006 11:18 PM | Link to this

Why in the HELL…Do we have THE WORST GM’s in Pro sports ? Here in Atlanta !

schuerholz has turned into a lifeless wimp.

Then the guy with the Hawks…LOSER and then dumb waddell… Why can we NOT have the best ? I amdamn tired of spending $ to see teams that will never win a title…They ALL are afraid of spending MONEY…Just like every company out there who could pay the lowest man on the pecking order $100K and not miss a dime…We are heading for a CRASH with the Braves… This liberty crowd looks like a loser for sure… But we already have losers in charge… Be THANKFUL Atlanta sprit is not in charge…They still have their diapers on !

By LAC

August 27, 2006 11:18 PM | Link to this

Why in the HELL…Do we have THE WORST GM’s in Pro sports ? Here in Atlanta !

schuerholz has turned into a lifeless wimp.

Then the guy with the Hawks…LOSER and then dumb waddell… Why can we NOT have the best ? I amdamn tired of spending $ to see teams that will never win a title…They ALL are afraid of spending MONEY…Just like every company out there who could pay the lowest man on the pecking order $100K and not miss a dime…We are heading for a CRASH with the Braves… This liberty crowd looks like a loser for sure… But we already have losers in charge… Be THANKFUL Atlanta sprit is not in charge…They still have their diapers on !

By Curtis

August 27, 2006 11:19 PM | Link to this

I think Jane should send her resume in for the GM job.

By LAC

August 27, 2006 11:19 PM | Link to this

Why in the HELL…Do we have THE WORST GM’s in Pro sports ? Here in Atlanta !

schuerholz has turned into a lifeless wimp.

Then the guy with the Hawks…LOSER and then dumb waddell… Why can we NOT have the best ? I amdamn tired of spending $ to see teams that will never win a title…They ALL are afraid of spending MONEY…Just like every company out there who could pay the lowest man on the pecking order $100K and not miss a dime…We are heading for a CRASH with the Braves… This liberty crowd looks like a loser for sure… But we already have losers in charge… Be THANKFUL Atlanta sprit is not in charge…They still have their diapers on !

By Ron Roberts

August 27, 2006 11:22 PM | Link to this

Having been a writer for a mid-market daily newspaper a few years back, I can assure you…

…John Schuerholz is a grade-A arrogant p******.

That being said, his body of work in Atlanta, overall, has given him the wiggle room to be such an arrogant S.O.B. over the years.

See, the problem is this… there’s plenty John Schuerholz has done wrong in the offseason and during this season that’s hindered the 2006 Atlanta Braves, and for once, there’s plenty of heat in the kitchen.

Ya know what they say about handling the heat, right?

If Schuerholz doesn’t like what’s being said (or implied, in Smoltz’ case when he merely hoped management would assist the team when there was a brief spike in performance following the June slide), then he should hang up his apron and let somebody else prepare the menu.

I appreciated hearing ANYBODY from the Atlanta Braves organization saying (to the fans, in essence) that there was a hope to improve this team. As a fan, I certainly hope my favorite team, when struggling, still wants to be better and compete for a championship. So what the hell did Smoltz say that was so wrong, John?

I’ll tell ya what problem was… when Smoltz said he hoped management would better the roster before the trade deadline, that put the onus on Schuerholz to actually do it.

Sorry, mister holier-than-thou general manager, but that’s your damned job, anyway, and if your my crap doesn’t stink attitude can’t deal with a little criticism, you’re in the wrong business. Fact is, before Smoltz made that statement, we had no hint of an assurance from the Braves that there were indeed any such hopes to improve this team… in fact, the track record of the Atlanta Braves, since they lost Gary Sheffield has been “we’ll do what we can for as little as we have to spend, and if we can’t do it that way, we’ll call up a kid from the minors and pray it works out.”

Kitchen’s kinda hot, Schuerholz. Get to cookin’ or get out.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 27, 2006 11:30 PM | Link to this

Well, this isn’t good. Smoltz may be pitching for a free agent contract next year. I just can’t believe that JS wouldn’t resign him but this ridiculous policy of not negotiating contracts during the year are killing this team. This is a no brainer. This team wouldn’t be anywhere near where they are at without Smoltz. What the heck are they waiting for.

Honestly, JS has not been a very good GM this year. I have even wondered how he and Cox are getting along. Cox has to be upset at the rejects that he was given out of that bullpen. JS hasn’t acted with any sense of urgency. He seems to get very offensive anytime his moves or non moves are questioned. That is always a sign that someone isn’t totally sure of what he is doing.

I see where Jeff Conine was traded to the Phillies and have to wonder why he wasn’t traded here. What about Moyer. He has some money to work with but didn’t make any more moves besides Baez and Wickman when it was obvious the starting rotation needed help. I personally don’t think Smoltz is the only one not happy with JS. He is just the spokseman. I still say I think part of Chipper’s problem earlier in the season was that he was upset that he restructured his contract for what appears to be no reason.

As I said earlier, this policy of not negotiating during the season is stupid. It has cost us Furcal and Sheffield in the last 3 years. I don’t care what anyone says. Sheff would have stayed if a deal had simply been offered to him. I don’t think he would have demanded 13 mil like he got from the Yanks. He would have played for 10. He is on record saying he would have taken less money to stay in Atlanta if they acted like they wanted him. What about Furcal. If JS has simply offered him 6 to 7 mil in April and May of last year like he wanted, Furcal would have stayed and the Dodgers offering him 13 mil would have never came into play. Is Furcal worth 13 mil? No! Is he worth 6 or 7 mil? Yes! Again, Furcal is on record saying he would have stayed if a deal had been made before the all-star break.

The fact is if JS makes Smoltz mad then it will be very bad for the Braves. While the team may hold the option, Smoltz holds the cards. If he starts demanding a trade, then that could cause an upset clubhouse. The other guys will watch how Smoltz is treated and wonder what will happen to them.

JS better pull his head out of his butt and exercise the option before he loses this team and maybe even Cox. I bet anything Cox is not happy with the way things are going

By Sane Jane

August 27, 2006 11:30 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the love, Curtis. Would you believe I am a public schoolteacher?

When Chipper restructured his deal in the offseason (of which I was highly critical; still am - he’s way too fragile to be converting option years into guaranteed ones), it was supposed to free up money so the Braves could sign some talent.

Did we? Did that money get spent?

Or pocketed.

By Larry

August 27, 2006 11:33 PM | Link to this

JS writes how JS and JS aren’t very nice to each other.

How cute!

By Ron Roberts

August 27, 2006 11:36 PM | Link to this

…and frankly, with Chipper’s $6 million going largely unspent, (how ya think he feels about making that offer, the team accepting it, and doing nothing with it to actually improve the team, Schuerholz? Think he might be a little peeved at “the organization,” too?) and with the loss of contracts to pay Thomson, Sosa, Brian Jordan, Todd Pratt, Reitsma, et al, there’s about $10-11 million under the AOL/TW-slash-Liberty Media salary cap to improve on what is a very young and talent-laden team.

This is the offseason where Mr. Schuerholz will have to prove his worth. Ya think maybe his arrogance has worn thin w/other GMs in the Majors? I sure hope not.

By Louis Vales

August 28, 2006 12:01 AM | Link to this

Jeff Conine is a borderline “warning track power” has been who hit one fewer homer last season than Willie Mays hit in one game. Yea, bring in Jeff Conine!!

By Peter Brawley

August 28, 2006 12:11 AM | Link to this

All of which begs the question…

OUCH! To beg a question is to assume what one claims to be proving.

You mean it RAISES the question. Where is the copy editor!?

By Howard Wright

August 28, 2006 12:48 AM | Link to this

Nick at night is crazy.

By JL in Rabun Co.

August 28, 2006 03:18 AM | Link to this

There are often two sides to consider in a complicated situation. First, I have been a big fan of John Smoltz and I hope he will be back in Atlanta next year. I expect that from what he has said, he would like to have the assurance and guarantee that his option is being picked up now. That would assure him that he would earn the $8 million next year and do so in Atlanta. It would also make him feel wanted and appreciated for what he has done for the Braves in the past. I can clearly see this side of the situation. On the Schuerholz side, he must use the money in his budget wisely and efficiently. While he may feel that a healthy John Smoltz would clearly be worth the $8 million committment for next season, Smoltz does have a history of developing arm problems late in the season. Schuerholz may feel that it is only wise and prudent to wait till the end of the season to make the $8 million committment so that he can be assured that the money is wisely invested in a healthy John Smoltz. That would seem to be in the Braves best interest, especially when working with a limited budget. I sincerely hope all of this works out favorably for the Braves and John Smoltz, but I do think there are two sides to most issues. This is my first time to post a comment. I hope it may be of some help.

By Dion

August 28, 2006 03:20 AM | Link to this

Ok for starters, Chipper got screwd. He was trying to help the team but end up just hurting his pockets. He could have kept the money and the braves would still be in the same situation, stuck on the outside of the wildcad race looking in. Is it just me or did Andruw go in to a BIG slump after hearing about his name on the waver wire,, hhhhmmmmmm. The excuse of injury is a no factor with him because he is always hurt. John Smolts is a star player and deserves the right to say whatever he feels. What he said is true. He knows what it takes to win and he has shown it this year, too bad others haven’t followed. Here are my views on some of our players, if you dont like it tell me what you think!!!

John Schuerholz: Get the hell out of town and dont come back!!!!!!!!!!!!

Bobby Cox: Hell of a manager, this isn’t his fault he had a horrible bullpen to work with and tried his bedt I am sure.

John Smoltz: Hall Of Fame for sure. He has been the backbone of the Atlanta pitching staff for years. If you let him go he will just come back and beat the hell out of you like all players the Braves trade with the exception of Glavine. Maddux wil destroy the braves when they play.

Chipper Jones:Getting OLD. I think he has a couple of decent years left in him if he can stay healthy. His feet are ok and he has one of the highest batting AVG. in the National Leauge. The only drayback with him is that he is way too injury prone. if he could have been healthy for the entire season maybe we wont be over 5 games out of the wildcard.

Andruw Jones: The best defensive outfielder in the leauge, hands down. Though he gets talked about for “so called” lack of hustle, he makes his plays. He is so smooth in doing so that it seems to come easy, this is being mistaken as lack of hustle. As for his offense he wont hit over .290 or seal 25 plus bases but he will still get you 30+ HR and 100+ RBI’s every year. Why woyld you want to get rid of that plus an amazing glove???

Jeff Francoeur: OVER RATED. If Atlanta wants to ma another WS run they will have to get some bats in the lineup that can hit over .260, draw walks, and wont slump for 3 weeks at a time after being hot for 1 week. His slumps are horrid!! I am not saying trade him, his D is great beside AJ but a left fielder that can swing a bat and help in the outfield. Jeff is not a superstar but a role player in the outfield an an occasional offensive lift if you catch him on the right week.

Matt Diaz/ Ryan Langerhans: Good pinch hit back up players. Not starters that would round out the Atlanta outfield. The Braves need a quality left fielder. Ryan is great od defense but his bat is not the best by any means. Matt is a good hitter but he dosent have the best range or arm. If Ryan could play the field and let Matt hit for him every at bat then we may have something but we all know that isnt possible!!!!! POINT IS we need a left fielder.

Adam LaRoche: Emerging Star first baseman. He may not ma an Albert Pujols but he has a nice bat, Power, and a decent glove. I expect Adam to have an even better year next season than he is having now. He fits well with the Atlanta plan and I feel he has proven himself worthy to stay in the lineup as the Braves FB.

Brian McCann: WOW. Best Catcher in the NL without a doubt! This guy is a stud!! He will Finish this year in the top five batting AVG. he is a clutch hitter and he dosent strike out a lot. He is wise beyond his baseball years. He has a higher % of throwing out runners that any othe catcher along with his offense. This guy will be around and be good here in Atlanta for a long time unless JS (HOMEBOII) decided to make a dumb move, would not put it past him.

Tim Hudson/ John Thompson: Too Unreliable, Let em go. You may be able to get another quality starter for Hudson. Thompson gets rocked, after every good game he has a FEW bad games. We can do better without him or TIMMY

If atlanta had Avg pitching out of the bullpen they may be able to make it back to the playoffs next season. They will need some healthy starters along wit a healthy set of Jones boys. their offense will be there but they just need a lot of help on the pitching end. Another good starter in the offseason would not be a bad idea. If I offended anyoun with my comments, Sorry, to end this The Braves need to do something FAST we Atlanta fans arent used to this abuse and false hope!!!!!

By Train Wreck Bystander

August 28, 2006 06:01 AM | Link to this

Smoltz stood by while the bullpen lost one-run games by the bushel in the early part of the year.

When the team needed a closer, he wouldn’t step up. When the team got a closer, it was too late.

Smoltz is sweating now. Do you think any future team will treat him with kid gloves like the Braves have?

I don’t.

By Louis Vales

August 28, 2006 06:54 AM | Link to this

Wow!! If Smoltz doesn’t sign, they might not win as many World Series as the Marlins have in the last 10 years!!! HOMEBOY—-UNREAL!!! Give him the money Time Warner. I’m sure if his near 40 year old troubled elbow blows out that he will repay you after all the millions he has made even though this will result in he and his extended family might not be able to live as well for the next 3 generations. HOMEBOY—John, He Called You A Homeboy!! Now go reward him to show you that is how it’s done.

By Mark

August 28, 2006 07:17 AM | Link to this

Its funny how writers are so much in love one day and then not so in love the the next day.Im sure JS has a few people above him letting him know what to do and when.We all love JS and JS( John Smoltz) as well,The Braves are in a tough position being between owners.It want get better anytime soon , because the sell is about taxes..not owners who love the Braves..thats greedy America again.So thats what I think. Good Day

By Bill

August 28, 2006 07:31 AM | Link to this

Smoltz is the last reason to herald the Braves! He has been the most consistant person on the field and off. He is an asset to the community (a rarity lately). He has done everything that this organization has asked and has performed top notched and if they don’t bring him back, then why watch a sinking ship. Smoltzie needs to always be a BRAVE.

By Bill

August 28, 2006 07:32 AM | Link to this

Smoltz is the last reason to herald the Braves! He has been the most consistant person on the field and off. He is an asset to the community (a rarity lately). He has done everything that this organization has asked and has performed top notched and if they don’t bring him back, then why watch a sinking ship. Smoltzie needs to always be a BRAVE.

By Eddie

August 28, 2006 07:33 AM | Link to this

LET HIS CRYBABY A* GO!ONE SEASON IN 15 YEARS WE ARE NOT MAKING THE PLAYOFFS AND HE IS WHINING.IM SICK OF HIM WHINING ON THE FIELD IF THE UMP DONT CALL A STRIKE 15 FEET OFF THE PLATE AND WHINING OFF THE FIELD TO THE MEDIA.HE NEEDS TO GO UP STAIRS HIMSELF,IS HE TO OLD TO CLIMB STEPS,IM SURE THEY HAVE A ELEVATOR.SHIP HIM BACK TO DETROIT WHERE HE BELONGS AND LETS GET THAT KID THAT THROWS OVER 100MPH AND MORE.GET OUT SMOLTZY!!!YOU PIECE OF S__T!

By John

August 28, 2006 07:38 AM | Link to this

The article makes perfect sense why the Braves are so bad. This is another perfect example of Schuerholz and the Braves thinking they can put a winning team on the field, doing it on the cheap and it’s not working now and it hasn’t worked for sometime. I can’t figure out why everyone is so surprised with the way Smoltz and his contract situation is taking place. Look at what has happened in the past few years, Glavine, Drew, Maddux, as well as bone head trades. Who’s next Andrew Jones for a Milwaukee relief pitcher. I think it might be time to cut ties with perhaps the general manager and not the players.

By Ron Roberts

August 28, 2006 08:04 AM | Link to this

Sorry, but anybody who suggests that Smoltz should go from starting every 5th day to closing in mid-season, just isn’t informed enough to warrant reading their posts.

The man moved to the ‘pen to help the team, and they hardly even got to him in the playoffs. Out of concern for the team’s future performance, he opted to move back to the rotation for his own health (it’s not as strenuous on his arm, folks) but because our starters were the likes of Russ Ortiz, John Thomson, and Jared Wright.

By Train Wreck Bystander

August 28, 2006 08:10 AM | Link to this

Then feel free to skip my posts, Ron R.

Smoltzie not only stood by when the pen needed him, but he lectured management in the press for not helping the pen out.

Cut and dried.

By mart

August 28, 2006 08:18 AM | Link to this

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: Smoltz is as responsible as anyone else for the October debacles.

By KC

August 28, 2006 08:21 AM | Link to this

Again, Smoltz was speaking out of frustration… nothing more. That was true both of when he verbally calling for a trade, and recently of his contract not having been picked up yet. Smoltz knows that JS is the best in the business.

I am a big John Smoltz fan. I love him as a player, and based on what I know of him, I like and respect him as a person. But I’ll have to be frank… maybe Smoltz is running his mouth a little too much here.

When Smoltz made the comments earlier in the season about the Braves needing bullpen help, he must have known the JS was doing everything humanly possible to address the situation. There just wasn’t much available (without grossly overpaying) and it took a while to find a deal that was palatable. Again, he was just speaking out frustration.

As to his contract not having been picked up yet… even though he has to know that the Braves are going to pick up his option, he has every right to complain to John Shuerholz, to Bobby Cox, or to whomever he wishes within the organization. But I think it’s always disconcerting when you hear a player being critical of his organization. And I know that these comments are also out of frustration, but maybe sometimes he just needs to keep his trap shut about such things when talking to the media. There’s no reason to use the press as a sounding board. If he has an issue, he should march up to John Shuerholz’s office and tell him man to man.

By p

August 28, 2006 08:22 AM | Link to this

nick at nite is correct. for the last two years the braves would have been better off with smoltz in the bullpen.

By Jim O

August 28, 2006 08:23 AM | Link to this

As a fan who cheered the braves from the 60’s till now, both JS’s need to stay. They were awful most of the time until this 14 year run when ‘homeboy’ JS (and BC)delivered.

One JS is handcuffed by a ‘salary cap’ but has proven he can provide the players to win, and the other is a great pitcher. The braves may have had a slim chance to make the playoffs this year if JS would have moved to the bullpen, but that is water over the dam at this point.

If it was basketball or football, at this point in the season I would be rooting for the Hawks/Falcons to be competitive but LOSE, so they would get higher draft choices. At least then I wouldn’t be as upset when they typically lost. But baseball is a different animal.

One thing we all know, is that our braves fans have passion!

By Jeff

August 28, 2006 08:29 AM | Link to this

The Braves do need a major overhaul. Smoltz is a winner and a class act, but he’s also nearing forty and has solid trade value (to a team that will contend in 2007 and if he agrees to be dealt). The real danger for the Braves front office is that it falls into the trap of thinking it can patch this team up so that it can make one more run for a playoff berth in 2007 rather than do the heavier lifting of repositioning this franchise for runs past 2007.

If the Braves can get real value for Smoltz (and A. Jones), and these guys agree to be dealt, do it. It should be about the overall future success of this franchise.

By Since 1956

August 28, 2006 08:37 AM | Link to this

Say whatever you will, it all comes down to one constant….MONEY or unlimited wants and finite supply

By Knuckleball Express

August 28, 2006 08:38 AM | Link to this

I think it’s time for Schuerputz to get off his high horse and realize he ain’t the greatest GM in the game. 1 WS Title in 14 straight trips to the postseason is pathetic. Even worse, the Braves have lost 8 straight WS games in their last two trips. Scheurputz hasn’t made a trade that paid dividends since Fred Mcgriff yet his ego keeps riding the train. One day, he will get rightly kicked to the curb just like Kasten & Babcock.

By Louis Vales

August 28, 2006 08:43 AM | Link to this

Homeboy!!!!! He called one of his bosses a HOMEBOY!! Terence and David spout off in the Boston Globe about the editor of this paper being a HOMEBOY and see what happens. In fact anybody in cyberspace try it. In fact do it today. Smoltzie should try that Rogaine on his elbow next time he is in the playoffs.

By Steve

August 28, 2006 08:44 AM | Link to this

I can understand Smoltz’s frustration, but it’s not like there’s been a run on good players getting their options excercised lately by any other team. Besides, what if his option is picked up today and he hurts his arm or gets in an accident tomorrow? That’s one reason why teams wait til after the season to exercise options.

By Train Wreck Bystander

August 28, 2006 08:44 AM | Link to this

As for swapping from rotation to pen (and vice versa)…

No one seems to have a problem with moving Villareal from one role to another in mid-season.

Sosa and Thomson also did what the team needed and changed their roles in mid-stream (with mixed results, I grant you).

By Dick

August 28, 2006 08:56 AM | Link to this

I think it is time that both Bobby Cox and John Shurhotz is put out to pasture. Bobby was jsut out coached Friday night, relief pitcher is hit ahrd by first three batters, BObby should know pitcher didn’t have his stuff that night and pulled him, but he waited until lead was lost. The next big move I think JS will make is getting rid of McCann. Stop and think, hasn’t JS done some stupid things in past. McCann is future leader of the team, he had better retain him as well, but JS isn’t the most logical man on universe.

By The Dog

August 28, 2006 08:58 AM | Link to this

Schuerholtz is a punk a$$ BIT&(&&*(

By braves fan

August 28, 2006 09:04 AM | Link to this

Let me be clear, I love John Smoltz and John Schuerholz. But Smoltz is out of line. It’s like he, along with everybody else out there has forgotten what has been accomplished the last 15 years. Has Schuerholz not put together 14 straight division winners, 5 national league championships, and 1 world series title? Does he not deserve the benefit of the doubt? I don’t think anyone, Schuerholz included, would say he has been flawless in how he constructed the team the last two seasons. But when Smoltz insisted he move into the rotation, and used the prospect of leaving the Braves as leverage to make that happen, Schuerholz afforded him the benefit of the doubt, and brought him out of the bullpen. It seems Smoltz should be grateful to Schuerholz for believing in him, when almost everyone thought it was a gamble. Schuerholz has always had a very particular way that he operates, close to the vest and never makes moves in an irrational state. What if they pick up Smoltz’s option now and Smoltz’s elbow blows out in the next month? Where does that leave the Braves? There is nothing wrong with waiting til the season is over, and then talking about picking up the option. And what if Schuerholz hasn’t picked up the option because he wants to renegotiate with Smoltz to add another year or two on? With the Braves ownership in transition, maybe Schuerholz is hoping the checkbook will open up some more, making it possible. Or maybe he’s afraid the payroll cap will go down with new ownership, and bringing back Smoltz might prohibit them building a winning team. Has Smoltz ever considered those possibilities? Schuerholz is doing the right thing, wait until the season’s over, and maybe the ownership situation will be more clear.

By Glenn

August 28, 2006 09:07 AM | Link to this

Any person who believes that an arm is more valuable in the bullpen than in the rotation needs to stop participating in this discussion. The reason it seems like the Braves ‘pen is so bad this year is because the rotation is probably worse. If JS fixes the SP problems, he fixes the Braves.

Cut and Dried.

By dsimmons

August 28, 2006 09:09 AM | Link to this

You are treading dangerous ground, admitting an error.. Not to mention writing something timely and incisive. Bad boy. Bad boy.

By DD55

August 28, 2006 09:13 AM | Link to this

Mac and Sal had it right on the money. John Smoltz is one of the last class acts in this game, let alone on this team. JS and Cox should both go the way of rockin’ Leo and get out of town.
Atlanta needs a winner again and management has openly expressed that all they care about is the divisional championship. It would be nice to get ownership in her along with new management that actually wanted the World Series ring again. Best of luck however it plays out Smoltzie. The fans know your worth and talent are the only things that have kept us in the game the last couple of years. Let’s hope we are allowed the honor of watching you in our town for many more years to come.

By 14 in a row

August 28, 2006 09:14 AM | Link to this

Nick at night, you are a moron.

By BeBrave

August 28, 2006 09:16 AM | Link to this

One thing is certain, Schuerholz does not recognize loyalty when it comes to the business of baseball. Not that a GM should worry about being loyal to a player, his job is to build a winner, but with that said how can anyone knock Smoltz for wanting to take care of Smoltz. The guy has done whatever was asked of him, he deserves to be dealt straight with, and 8mil will not make or break this teams payroll.

For the genious that everyone claims Schuerholz to be, without Smoltz on this team we do not win 14 division titles. And on the team that has lost so many playoff games, he is the winningest post season pitcher ever.

I think everyone needs to get over this belief that Schuerholz is some mad scientist genious who’s got a master plan beyond our belief. He sells out players that made his legend (Justice, Gant, Glavine(in that stupid book) and now Smoltz)

By David

August 28, 2006 09:18 AM | Link to this

Here is the dirtly little secret J.S. want tell anybody. They don’t have any money and do not forsee getting any in the future. The well is dry.

By 14 in a row

August 28, 2006 09:22 AM | Link to this

Nick at night, you are a moron.

By BeBrave

August 28, 2006 09:26 AM | Link to this

One thing is certain, Schuerholz does not recognize loyalty when it comes to the business of baseball. Not that a GM should worry about being loyal to a player, his job is to build a winner, but with that said how can anyone knock Smoltz for wanting to take care of Smoltz. The guy has done whatever was asked of him, he deserves to be dealt straight with, and 8mil will not make or break this teams payroll.

For the genious that everyone claims Schuerholz to be, without Smoltz on this team we do not win 14 division titles. And on the team that has lost so many playoff games, he is the winningest post season pitcher ever.

I think everyone needs to get over this belief that Schuerholz is some mad scientist genious who’s got a master plan beyond our belief. He sells out players that made his legend (Justice, Gant, Glavine(in that stupid book) and now Smoltz)

By T Robb

August 28, 2006 09:30 AM | Link to this

Great article, Jeff. For as good a job as Schuerholz has done over the years, he’s not infallible - and hates to be reminded of that. You’re right; Schuerholz has had a lousy year. Bad timing, bad assumptions, bad gambles. The one thing that has worked out is Smoltz.

Pay The Man.

End of story.

By BeBrave

August 28, 2006 09:36 AM | Link to this

Speaking of CHEAP, can the AJC not afford a server, or an IT staff that actually knows how to run a blog site, this double-posting P.O.S. site is totally bush league.

By Mike

August 28, 2006 09:37 AM | Link to this

John Smoltz is the reason the Braves are only 6 back in the wild card race, rather than 16 back. In a league where quality starting pitching is so scarce, any other team would jump on the chance to “lock up” Smoltzie for another season at that price. I would not renegotiate a contract in the middle of the season, but to tell a veteran player you want him back is not out of line (regardless of how you do business). Smoltzie, like the rest of us deserves the right to have job security. Loyality works both ways.

The Braves have the nucleus for a good team next year, the Jones, Francouer, McCann, Smoltz, LaRoche, etc. The have to have some starting pitching. Shurhotz wasted Betemit. If he couldn’t get a starting pitcher, we were better off with Betemit. Wickman can get the job done as closer, I hope we can get him back next year.

By JS Defender

August 28, 2006 09:48 AM | Link to this

Did anyone take the time to look up Betemit’s stats before they said how wonderful it would be for him to still be here? He’s hitting .239 for the boys in blue.

Also, would you like the Braves to pick up a sizable 8 mil option on Smoltz TODAY, then have him blow his elbow out in his next start? The way Smoltz is talking, do you really believe he would say “Oh, my arm is busted, I’m gonna give the money back so you can field a good team.” Smoltz is acting like an @$$hole and JS is justified in telling him to shut his mouth and wait until the season ends.

By Jack

August 28, 2006 09:52 AM | Link to this

JS is impressed with JS——I am not. Just look at all the trades he has made. What he traded and where they are playing and what he got in return. He should be run out of town on a rail.

By Donna

August 28, 2006 09:56 AM | Link to this

THE BRAVES WILL NOT BE THE BRAVES WITHOUT SMOLTZ. THEY NEED TO KEEP HIM OR THEY WILL LOSE A LOT OF FANS.

By Kermit P. Soileau

August 28, 2006 09:56 AM | Link to this

The Braves are known as one of the classiest organizations in baseball - they just need to live up to it and sign Smoltz so that he winds up in the Hall of Fame without ever having to go to another team.

By MarkA

August 28, 2006 09:57 AM | Link to this

So when the rift between Smoltz and Schuerholz becomes a gaping wound, who’s going to come back to Jeff Schultz, the self-described “character assassin,” and demand he bring these two guys back together again? Naw, he’s a critic. He’ll be on to the next fight. In the meantime, we’ve got a delicate locker room situation that just turned incendiary.

By rolltide

August 28, 2006 09:57 AM | Link to this

While Schuerholz has made some great choices in the past, the last couple of years have not been so great. We all would like to see the Braves contine to win! If Smoltz goes then the pitching staff has zip. Just because a player speaks up & you as the GM don’t agree is no reason to be STUPID about your contract choices. Schuerholtz needs to “put on his big girl panties & get over it”

By John

August 28, 2006 09:58 AM | Link to this

Smoltz deserves to be kept. He did it the old fashioned way, he EARNED it…if we trade Smoltz, Chipper or Andruw you can bet that a lot of fans will no longer be in the stands…

By Chip

August 28, 2006 09:59 AM | Link to this

I quess John Schuerholz is awaiting the arrival of his son to the Braves to be the savior. I have news for you JS, your son is not that good. I would know, being a regular at the R Braves games. JS, NUT UP, and give Smoltz that extension no matter what the new owners say, he DESERVES it, period. What other superstar pitcher has given you 19 years of solid performance without crying or belly-aching…..

By John

August 28, 2006 10:01 AM | Link to this

Smoltz deserves to be kept. He did it the old fashioned way, he EARNED it…if we trade Smoltz, Chipper or Andruw you can bet that a lot of fans will no longer be in the stands…

By Chip

August 28, 2006 10:01 AM | Link to this

I quess John Schuerholz is awaiting the arrival of his son to the Braves to be the savior. I have news for you JS, your son is not that good. I would know, being a regular at the R Braves games. JS, NUT UP, and give Smoltz that extension no matter what the new owners say, he DESERVES it, period. What other superstar pitcher has given you 19 years of solid performance without crying or belly-aching…..

By MarkA

August 28, 2006 10:02 AM | Link to this

So when the rift between Smoltz and Schuerholz becomes a gaping wound, who’s going to come back to Jeff Schultz, the self-described “character assassin,” and demand he bring these two guys back together again? Naw, he’s a critic. He’ll be on to the next fight. In the meantime, we’ve got a delicate locker room situation that just turned incendiary.

By Ryan

August 28, 2006 10:02 AM | Link to this

Wow, were 14 divisional titles not enough for you people??

One bad year and its’: “Go in a new direction”

Sheesh. We didn’t have baseball here for 31 years and I for one am happy just watching any baseball, even a last place team.

Maybe David Justice’s words ring true even 10 years later about how spoiled the Braves fans are and how much you take winning for granted.

Stop your whining.

By Kelley

August 28, 2006 10:03 AM | Link to this

I love the Braves and baseball, but I get so tired of over paid athletes whining about their salaries and their futures.

Get rid of Schureholz and keep Smoltz?? It’s ALOT cheaper to keep Schureholz than it is Smoltz.
What ever happened to being a team player and just doing your job?

Don’t get me wrong, Smoltz is a future Hall of Famer and a huge part of the Braves success, but I am extremely disapponted that he would choose to take the opportunity to focus on himself right now. Kind of ironic that he is ready to go some where else now that the Braves are not going to the play offs for the first time in 14 years huh? Extremely disappointing!!!

By Mike

August 28, 2006 10:05 AM | Link to this

Schuerholz needs to go! Maybe a few more autograph signings of his own might get us to the wild card. What a waste of time he was this year! Looks like John forgot to do his job in the off season…..which was sign the right people! What a jackass!

By MarkA

August 28, 2006 10:06 AM | Link to this

So when the rift between Smoltz and Schuerholz becomes a gaping wound, who’s going to come back to Jeff Schultz, the self-described “character assassin,” and demand he bring these two guys back together again? Naw, he’s a critic. He’ll be on to the next fight. In the meantime, we’ve got a delicate locker room situation that just turned incendiary.

By Lee

August 28, 2006 10:06 AM | Link to this

Get rid of Schuerholz because his team didn’t win their fifteenth divison championship in a row? Man, one down season and you all want to take down the main reason you’ve had all the success you have had the last 14 years. I admit it’s been frustrating the last few seasons with the closer situation and knowing that Todd Jones has been salivating over the chance to close for the Braves his entire career but……never mind, Schuerholz IS an idiot.

By Ryan

August 28, 2006 10:08 AM | Link to this

Wow, were 14 divisional titles not enough for you people??

One bad year and its’: “Go in a new direction”

Sheesh. We didn’t have baseball here for 31 years and I for one am happy just watching any baseball, even a last place team.

Maybe David Justice’s words ring true even 10 years later about how spoiled the Braves fans are and how much you take winning for granted.

Stop your whining.

By Mike

August 28, 2006 10:08 AM | Link to this

Schuerholz needs to go! Maybe a few more autograph signings of his own might get us to the wild card. What a waste of time he was this year! Looks like John forgot to do his job in the off season…..which was sign the right people! What a jackass!

By Mike

August 28, 2006 10:08 AM | Link to this

Schuerholz needs to go! Maybe a few more autograph signings of his own might get us to the wild card. What a waste of time he was this year! Looks like John forgot to do his job in the off season…..which was sign the right people! What a jackass!

By bymybootstraps

August 28, 2006 10:13 AM | Link to this

I’ll take the general manager over the pitcher ANY day of the week. A general manager takes care of an organization, a pitcher takes care of himself….and don’t forget, this is not the first time this particular pitcher has taken the me, myself and I attitude!

By rtl

August 28, 2006 10:18 AM | Link to this

Best this for Smoltz is to be traded…he is a winner and deserves to end his career with a winning team that has a bullpen….who knows he might have a couple more 20 win seasons in him with the right team…JS can’t make good decisions on a budget and he has let his ego get away from him…Smoltz is a leader and a fierce competitor..JS is stupid to cross swords with him in public when all he wants is a closer to save the game…no one can pitch complete games all year!

By richie

August 28, 2006 10:19 AM | Link to this

from richie…palm beach gardens fl it’s time for schuerholz to be replaced…smoltz is still one of the top pitchers in the game and the braves being so cheap doesn’t cut with me as a fan…someone above the gm should tell smoltz you’ll be back next year and home boy won’t. one simple reason is that home boy did nothing in mid season the help the bullpen and home boy should be fired..john smoltz should go into the Hall of fame and should be back with the braves till he retires for the golf course…

By Jeffery G

August 28, 2006 10:19 AM | Link to this

I have been a Braves fan ever since they moved from Milwaukee. I have been a fan no matter where I lived, no matter who was at the helm. I have never lived in Atlanta, and I have been angered by the spotty show of support by fans at the games every year through the amazing run of more than a decade, since I would have been one of the first in line for a season ticket if I had lived within 75 miles of Atlanta at any time.

I have also stayed the course with management through the process, even when some of the fans on these boards probably second-guessed them.

But I have enough old school in me to say, make it clear about Smoltz’s situation with the team for the future. Yeah, I’m a realist, and yeah, I understand “It’s not the way we do things”, but this is one guy that I would like to see for old times’ sake finish his career as a Brave. If not, let him know, and let us know. Soon. Maybe he should have stayed in the bullpen, but he sure as hell a=has proved he didn’t have to, to be effective.

Well, I’m just venting. People can take pot shots at my comments—feel free; since I’m venting I won’t even bother to check out your responses. But I am a true Braves fan who has always been in the front of the parade, looking back over my shoulder as the bandwagon has alternatively groaned under the strain of newbies and moved faster when the fair weather fans have shoved off. At the same time, even in this age of free agency and coporateness I like to see both a few favorites at the core of the team and new faces that will be future stars.

By Steven Lemon

August 28, 2006 10:19 AM | Link to this

Make no mistake; I am no friend of John Schuerholtz, and I think John Smoltz is being mstreated by the front office and his bullpen. Smoltz, however, has been responsible for more than his share of missed opportunities. I (and everyone else who is even a little objective about it) have seen Smoltie give up too many big hits on 0-2 and 1-2 pitches, something you’d seldom if ever see Bob Gibson, Greg Maddux or Tom Glavine do. Smoltz is still a premier occassionally pitcher posing as a fgive year hurler prone to being victimized by bad pitches to rookies and also-rans when the game is on the line.

One sure sign of a champion is to pick up the other guys when THEY drop the ball. For sure, the bullpen’s work leaves no opportunity to pick anyone up, but to blame the bullpen and “homeboy upstairs” without heaping a good share of the blame on Smoltz himself is in my opinion, a little short sighted.

I think John would have a banner year on a team that has a more experienced bullpen, a playing style that includes more “billy ball”, and more starters who can put a batter away 0-2, 1-2.

Schuerholtz can take care of the first part, Bobby Cox the second, but the third can only be handled by Smoltie himself.

By rolltide

August 28, 2006 10:20 AM | Link to this

Smoltz has done a fantastic job for the Braves & Schuerholz should not be STUPID and by not resigning him. He is a team leader & a team player. So what if the two don’t agree. The fact is Smoltz has been the only pitcher to consistantly perform this year, he can’t picth every game & be releif pitcher too. Schuerholt needs to “put on his big girl panties & deal with it”.

Sound to me like Schuerholts isn’t dealing well with the fact that choices made over the last couple of years are coming back to bite him in the butt!

By Danny Cartner

August 28, 2006 10:20 AM | Link to this

John Smoltz has been THE man in Atlanta…ESPECIALLY IN THE POST SEASON!!! If you don’t believe me just check out his stats!! (Look at Maddux and Glavine and compare them with John) It was his decision to go back to the rotation so that IF they got back to the post season he would be able to start and possibly avoid a ‘3 and out’! You can NOT save games when you are behind…no matter how great the closer!! I’d have Smoltzy in my Post Season rotation if I could have ANY pitcher in history!!

(And for all you ‘Bullpen Experts’ out there…Wickman isn’t a light-weight—no pun intended!!)

John Smoltz is a man of honor and loyalty unseen in today’s ‘Sports Heroes’! THANKS JOHN FOR ALL YOUR YEARS AS A BRAVE WITH A BRAVEHEART!!!

If you don’t get to stay in Atlanta with the cheap Joes running the show—the Cards could sure use a WINNER in their rotation next year b/c they will have some openings!!!!!

Love ya John!!!! DC :O)

By B Smith

August 28, 2006 10:23 AM | Link to this

Does Bobby Cox have any imput with Schuerholz regarding Smoltz? Obviously some of the decisions of management regarding pitchers has been DISGUSTING, not successful, yet the pitcher who has been the major reliever (at what physical cost? three elbow surgeries possibly??) and returning to the role of starter, and NOTHING HAS BEEN SAID TO HIM ABOUT NEXT YEAR????? Maybe Schuerholz should be the one with his contract stopped and some new blood as GM that recognizes pitchers who can help the Braves.

By Chuck

August 28, 2006 10:24 AM | Link to this

Whoa!!! It makes sense to pick up the option after the season, and he should tell Smoltz that he certainly plans on doing that. But what if Smoltz’s arm falls off next week? Do you want $8 million of your payroll (or a big raise in your insurance payments) just so Smoltz can have a warm feeling now? It’s still a business, and obviously the Braves are short of spending money! Smoltz will have a huge retirement if his arm does fall off, and he will be back with the Braves making $8 million if it doesn’t. I don’t see the what the argument is about!
Schuerholtz had a bad year because of 55 injuries to the bullpen and starting pitching, plus weak performance by position players. Given his budget cuts the past few years, he’s done a great job. The players have become, predictably, spoiled by success. Since when is it ok to second-guess a general manager in the paper? Smoltz always says stuff in emotional outbursts. The best thing we can do for him is to ignore it. He’s a player, not a manager. He’ll be a good color commentator, but not a manager or a general manager. I hope this stupid article doesn’t put Schuerholtz in a position of choosing between sharing the general manager duties or letting him go - that would be the worst for all concerned, especially the fans! Chuck

By David

August 28, 2006 10:25 AM | Link to this

I totally Agree with Mike—Shuerholtz needs to go! He has reached his level of incompetence. Why would he not want to renew Smoltz’s contract after Smoltz has put together such a steller year? It’s the same reason why Tommy Glavine is pitching for the Mets and John Shuerholtz would not even try to keep such a great future hall-of-fame legend such as Tommy Glavine. When Tom Glavine was trying to get a good deal before signing with the Mets, Shuerholtz made sure to give T.G. such an embarrasing “low-ball” offer to the point that Tommy has no choice but to get out of Dodge. Tommy couldn’t stay around and be butchered with such an insulting, embarrasing, disgusting offer after he had carved out such an impressive career. So Tommy took a reasonable offer from the Mets and now he is enjoying one of the finest years of his career! Now the hands of time have swung towards Smoltz, and Smoltz is being crapped on by Shuerholtz the same way that Shuerholtz treated Tom Glavine; so much so to the point that I hope that Smoltz decides to just take his services somewhere else seeing how is being used by John Shuerholz and not appreciated for his great skills. Smoltz deserves a great contract; I would say Smoltzie should be paid one of the five best deals in all of baseball because I know that he is one of the top 5 starting pitchers in the game today—and his contract should reflect that right down to the last dime!

By Steve Brown

August 28, 2006 10:26 AM | Link to this

The team is being sold. JS is just an employee and is perhaps holding off on the big contracts until the sale is final. Smoltz should be honest and admit that his return to the starting rotation had as much to do with more spare time to play his golf as anything else. I don’t see them as 14 in a row, I see them as 1 for fourteen. The young guys are exciting and don’t b***, makes it fun to be a fan again.

By KC

August 28, 2006 10:27 AM | Link to this

There’s one word and one word only to describe all of the criticism of Shuerholz and the calls to replace him… “stupidity”.

By TheSouthernJackAss

August 28, 2006 10:27 AM | Link to this

Hey it’s just the “new” Braves—you know, the “Atlanta Ro’Yalls”!!!…GO TIGERS!!!…

By Mac McLemore

August 28, 2006 10:28 AM | Link to this

Come on John Schuerholz - sign him! Exercise that option. To heck with tradition. You don’t have to break your self-imposed rules. Just bend them in this situation. Nineteen years in the Braves organization warrants it. Smoltzie should be the exception, not the rule. Wear the white hat, ride in on the white horse and “Git ‘er done!!

By KC

August 28, 2006 10:30 AM | Link to this

There’s one word and one word only to describe all of the criticism of Shuerholz and the calls to replace him… “stupidity”.

By KC

August 28, 2006 10:30 AM | Link to this

There’s one word and one word only to describe all of the criticism of Shuerholz and the calls to replace him… “stupidity”.

By gary

August 28, 2006 10:31 AM | Link to this

It is ashame that businesses operate with a plantation mentality. With the exception of salaries, these athletes are treated as chatel, to be used,abused at the whim of the master. Mr. Smoltz, I would like to personally thank you for all the enjoyment I have derived from your efforts throughout the years you have been with the team. Here is hoping,that in the future,you get the chance to play on another championship team.PEACE!!!!

By Ron Roberts

August 28, 2006 10:33 AM | Link to this

A couple of counterpoints… the Braves moved Villareal up from the bullpen to start games in what was intended to be a one-time scenario. It went well, though, and since Villareal wanted to continue toeing the rubber in starts, and the team certainly needed a spot-starter, the feelings were mutual from the Braves’ standpoint.

You clamor about Smoltz going to the bullpen when heand Hudston are the only viable starters we’ve had that hasn’t faced any sustained time injured all year.

Smoltz is available to help the Braves win every fifth game; as a closer, if we’re throwing Lance Cormier, Villareal, Tim Hudson, Jorge Sosa, Horacio Ramirez, Chuck James, John Thomson(just reeling off the other starters the Braves have had to resort to using all season), you’d hardly ever see Smoltz needed, because there’d rarely be any leads to nail down at the end of a game. He’s right to presume the Braves need him more as a starter than as a closer.

And if John Schuerholz has decided to wait til the offseason to exercise the $8 million option on Smoltz, Smoltz should know that, as a professinal courtesy. This air of superiority Schuerholz surrounds himself with is nauseating. Guys like Smoltz, Chipper, Andruw (who’ve all taken less money to help the team goal) deserve to be in on internal matters, I think. They’re the face of the organization, not ol’ stodgy suspender man.

By KC

August 28, 2006 10:35 AM | Link to this

There’s one word and one word only to describe all of the criticism of Shuerholz and the calls to replace him… “stupidity”.

By Hunter

August 28, 2006 10:37 AM | Link to this

Smoltz is such a crybaby. Remember when he sued the homeowner next door because their new house cast a shadow on his pool?

I mean what a pr1ck!!!

Why don’t they go ahead and exercise mky option… Whaa, Whaa, Whaa!!!

Because you dummy, there is a month to go in the season and you do have a history of arm troubles, regardless that you have not complained this year. to exercise the option now would be malpractice!

He has been in this game 19 years. He should know that it is a business. Just imagine what a pain he would have been if the Braves had not won the last 14!!!

Personally, I would not exercise the option and let him go and get more money next year. I just dislike his attitude that much.

By Gene

August 28, 2006 10:38 AM | Link to this

There was a period, from 1969 to 1991, when I paid no attention to the Braves. I guess they hit the bottom in the 1970’s when Ted was standing on the dugout acting the drunken fool. If they dump Smoltz and continue their sorry ways, they will go back to four digit crowds and most of the seven-dollar hotdogs can feed the homeless. Atlanta fans will support a winner passionately but will ignore a loser.

By bushwacker

August 28, 2006 10:39 AM | Link to this

This is freaking unbelievable. I thought mgmt here was different and this is why we’ve been successful for so long. If Schuerholz has this attitude with Smoltz now I know why we let Glavine and Maddox get away. If for one say its time for Schuerholz to go,the arrogant sob. If he dosen’t bring Smoltz back, I hope Bobby says enough is enough and tells whoever he can tell, get rid of Schuerholz or he should quit,force them into maikng a choice!

By Rodger

August 28, 2006 10:40 AM | Link to this

Obviously, no one takes into consideration the possibility that Schuerholz is trying to come up with the flexibility to sign Smoltz for more than one year?

It would be nice of them to let him know, of course, but he is too high & mighty for that, I guess.

By EasterBunny

August 28, 2006 10:41 AM | Link to this

Schuerholz is a senile ol’ ba$tard—but by this time tomorrow ol’ Smoltz will be saying that he never said what he just said, or that he didn’t mean what he just said, or that it came out wrong from the way he just said it, or some other 2-faced comment—just more “drama queen” b****** conjured up by AJC to keep you unemployed morons reading their worthless rag!…Schuerholz and Smoltz will still be “bestbuttholebuddies”!

By David

August 28, 2006 10:41 AM | Link to this

The Braves have got one more shot to make the playoffs. I checked the standings last night; somehow, miraculously, the Braves are only 5 games back in the wild card—that’s amazing because only a few days ago the Braves were about 7 1/2 games out of the wild-card and left for dead. Right now, if the Braves strike quickly—and reel off about 17 out of 20 ballgames—get into the playoffs as a wild-card participant and stay hot throughout the playoffs and win the world series—-it would be one of the most improbable, unbelievable, baseball accomplishments and probably the most miraculous season since the beginning of time!

By Sean T. O'Brien

August 28, 2006 10:41 AM | Link to this

Hmm, some active posting. The key here, as some mention, is ownership, not JS or Smoltz. It’s amazing the Braves have won the last couple of years with the unstable ownership. How annoying it must have been to be owned by Time-Warner.

New ownership has to make a statement. The Betemit trade was extremely stupid. Not picking up Smoltz’s contract would make it look good by comparison. All streaks end, the key is showing the smarts to start a new one. (Look at what happened to the San Francisco 49ers, once considered the “best organization” in the NFL. Would they have traded Joe Montana? Oh, right, they did in ‘93. Are the Braves headed down that path? Let’s hope not.)

Once you lose the peak you might not get it back. Coaches go stale, players, so maybe do GMs. Dean Smith proved excellence can be maintained for 10-20-30 years with only occasional drop-offs. Professional sports is a more difficult nut to hump.

I was a fan when Rick “Summer” Camp was the ace of the bullpen. Let’s just hope those days don’t return. Gotta good start though.

By Kin

August 28, 2006 10:46 AM | Link to this

In response to T’s earlier post about not having stars leave Atlanta when they become too expensive:

Get used to it. It’s the nature of the beast. It’s no sure thing that Andruw Jones will return after next season. Scott Boras is his agent and Andruw already bypassed him once in order to work out a hometown discount on his current contract. Boras will not want that to happen again.

It’s also very possible that Marcus Giles won’t return to the team next year. His salary will go way up and the Braves won’t be able to afford him.

By MrsSchuerholz

August 28, 2006 10:46 AM | Link to this

It’s time for Schuerholz to go!

By Dave

August 28, 2006 10:49 AM | Link to this

It is this simple: If the Braves quit on Smoltz, I will never watch this team again as long as JS is in charge. If we lose Smoltz, the golden age of the Braves is officially over. Spending 8 mil to keep Smoltz is the biggest bargain in MLB. If they are unwilling to do so, than it becomes obvious that this team is doomed to be nothing more than a benign commodity held by a faceless mechanized porn proliferating conglomerate that is called Liberty Media.

By Josh

August 28, 2006 10:52 AM | Link to this

So help me……..if they do not bring Smoltz back, I will no longer be a Braves fan. I can handle Anruw being dealt for the right price, but if JS lets this happen, I AM THRU!

By Sophia

August 28, 2006 10:52 AM | Link to this

Ok, now Smoltzie is really starting to “irk” me. I don’t mind if players speak their mind but it seems as if Smoltz waited until the ship was sinking to speak his. From his infamous interview on ESPN about potentially having a chance to play for Detroit to this, it’s starting to get annoying.

By Rob

August 28, 2006 10:55 AM | Link to this

Being a Mets Fan, I say that Smoltz stinks and he stinks so bad that if the Braves finally “realize” this and get rid of him, the METS would be more than HAPPY to have him pitch for us!!!!… (really he is a first class pitcher all the way!!!, you Atlanta fans are lucky to have him, you would be fools to let him go!!!)

By Hunter

August 28, 2006 11:02 AM | Link to this

Smoltz is such a crybaby. Remember when he sued the homeowner next door because their new house cast a shadow on his pool?

I mean what a pr1ck!!!

Why don’t they go ahead and exercise mky option… Whaa, Whaa, Whaa!!!

Because you dummy, there is a month to go in the season and you do have a history of arm troubles, regardless that you have not complained this year. to exercise the option now would be malpractice!

He has been in this game 19 years. He should know that it is a business. Just imagine what a pain he would have been if the Braves had not won the last 14!!!

Personally, I would not exercise the option and let him go and get more money next year. I just dislike his attitude that much.

By bravesfanbob

August 28, 2006 11:05 AM | Link to this

I have always defended JS in the past, because he is probably the best GM in the game. Yes, Theo Epstein has many years to go to prove his excellence, and Brian Cashman has an open wallet. If JS had these same payrolls, the Braves under Cox would be 40 games over at this point. But the damage to the fan support for the lack of signing Glavine would pale in comparison to not picking up the option on Smoltz immediately. Glavine left for very little more money, but Smoltzie took $13 million less to stay here 6 years ago, as well as going to the bullpen, when the Yankees offered $53M for 4 years as a starter. He is the most admired out of all the Braves, as well as the only one left from 1991. He is worth it to the Atlanta fan base if JS had to pick up a $20M option. Is he a $20M pitcher? Well if you compare him to Clemens who makes $18M, then he is! He has put up superb numbers this year, (I’ve always thought wins were a little overated). But even the Florida Marlins would pay him $8M for next year! So JS, do a smart thing and pick up the option immediately, and maybe the fans will show you a little loyalty by putting a few extra butts in the seats at game #162 if the Braves have been eliminated from the playoffs by then. Oh yeah, we would have been eliminated already without Smoltz! This is much more about loyalty than money. YOU OWE HIM, HE OWES YOU NOTHING! As Richard Pryor said to Gene Wilder in ‘Silver Streak’, “Pay the man!”

By D. Murphy

August 28, 2006 11:10 AM | Link to this

Sheeze people. It’s just a baseball game. I’m glad we have a team to root for.

By EJY

August 28, 2006 11:14 AM | Link to this

I’m tired of everyone hanging their hat on consecutive division championships. It came during years when the national league was no better than some of the worst teams in the american league. Case in point - this year. Lets look towards the future. Smoltz is a class act who has held this team’s pitching staff together and deserves the Braves acnowledgement of renewing his contract. He has 2 - 3 years of 100 pitch games left. He may even be able to go to the bullpen after that. He would be the best role model and teacher for pitchers coming in that you could get. Another case in point - Kenny Rogers goes to Detroit and the young staff improves. They publicly give him credit. I think what Smoltz gives to the organization is worth a lot more than J.S. realizes. To those of you that say ship him out gives us some of your great ideas on who you would bring in that you can COUNT ON to be consistant.

By 2N4YEARS

August 28, 2006 11:17 AM | Link to this

If I was Smoltz I’d probably left when Schuerholz ran that smart a$$ mouth of his. What an arrogant fool he is. I care less & less about the Braves each and every year.

By NYC#1

August 28, 2006 11:18 AM | Link to this

Hey the braves won a series over the weekend. They showed those Nationals they’re not a last place team. Just a next to last place team.

By Chuck_Uuga

August 28, 2006 11:21 AM | Link to this

I really do not care what any Braves fan or other individual thinkS of what I have to say. So with that out of the way, John Schuerholz, YOU NEED TO RETIRE OR OTHERWISE LEAVE. I AM SICK AND TIRED OF YOUR EGOTISTICAL, TYRANNICAL MANAGEMENT STYLE THAT HAS DONE NOTHING BUT BLOW UP OUR TEAM EVERY TIME A TOP PROSPECT MAKES IT TO THE MAJORS. YOUR HIDEOUS TRADES FOR TEMPORARY HELP RARELY PANS OUT FOR MORE THAN A COUPLE OF MONTHS AS MOST ACQUIRED PLAYERS LEAVE BY THE START OF THE FOLLOWING SYSTEM. NOW YOU WON’T SIGN SMOLTZ BECAUSE HE HURT YOUR FEELINGS BY SPEAKING OUT. GUESS WHAT, DON’T SIGN HIM AND PEOPLE LIKE ME WILL CONTINUE TO STAY AWAY FROM TURNER FIELD (I HAVEN’T BEEN TO A GAME ALL YEAR BECAUSE OF YOU). HEY SCHUERHOLZ, DON’T GO AWAY MAD…JUST GO AWAY!

Chuck in Norcross

By Eric Shelander

August 28, 2006 11:23 AM | Link to this

To Nick at Nite and others who share his views. I am so sorry you are so misguided. You obviously are a Johnny come lately Atlanta Braves fan. If you had endured since the very first game played in 1966, you would not view John Smoltz in that manner. Over the last 14-15 years, too many Atlanta fans have becoming jaded with the consistency of playoff teams here. Bottom line, I’ll take Smoltz in my starting rotation when he turns 50 if he wants to pitch that long. And I guarantee you he will still find a way to win 14-15 games a year. That is the kind of mentality we need.

By h8-da-braves

August 28, 2006 11:26 AM | Link to this

Be polite to those on the way up cause you’ll see them again on the way DOWN.

By ge

August 28, 2006 11:28 AM | Link to this

scheurholz is now and has been an overrated non essential puff peacock for years. Seriously, I have never understtod why everybody including the media has their head up his posterior. teflonjohn takes no blame, only all the credit he can. if I were Smoltz, I would pack my bags and jump off the Titanic. schuerholz is going to be gone, too. he can’t handle the coming backlash,so he gets out with plausible deniability.

By Dave

August 28, 2006 11:29 AM | Link to this

Schuerholz character has quickly taken a dive. First it was his classless tell-all book that divulged his Glavine negotiations. I bet the tension with Smoltz is, in some way, a continuation of the same animosity.

No single player has contributed more to the Braves than Smoltz. For him to be treated like this shows how immature and vindictive Schuerholz has become. Such behavior is a cancer to the organization so it’s time for him to go.

By Smoltz is the man

August 28, 2006 11:30 AM | Link to this

1st off if you criticize Smaoltz, you are ignorant. Nick at Nite, get a life. Smoltz is the heart & soul of this team! Without him, the braves would probably be 15 games under .500. He had to leave the bullpen. And JS look what he’s done for the Braves. This is a rebuilding year. You can’t win every freakin year!! Look at what the braves have done!! Yes the bullpen is pathetic. But look at what JS has done! Or maybe you prefer the 1980’s Braves. Just chill out, people! Yes they should re-sign Smoltz & I don’t like that move. But the Braves have been on top forever. It’s obvious of all the fairweather fans!!

By Alex

August 28, 2006 11:33 AM | Link to this

So Jeff…You’ve done it again! You’ve blown up one comment and poured gasoline on a fire. Great job Jeff, I bet you must be very proud of yourself. Between you and Mark Bradley…it’s a wonder how either of you is still employed.

To all the fans: Would you calm down. John Smoltz isn’t going anywhere next year. The team will be competitive in 2007, with John in the rotation. There you have it.

By Dirk

August 28, 2006 11:34 AM | Link to this

It is really time for JS to go. He has written his book, he has given us a few good years, but ever since McGriff for a bag of balls, his trades and signings have been questionable.

He got rid of the heart of the team and got back a motormouth little whiner in Kenny Lofton.

He gave away a future MVP candidate (Dye) and got Keith Lockhart.

He gave away the third baseman of the future becuase he forgot to lockup the shortstop of the future longterm.

He has NEVER been able to give Bobby the bullpen we so desperately need.

Now, he is too busy being a prima donna and worry about how he is seen and how is book is selling. It is time for John to move on. Bring in a GM who is ready, and knows how to win with a reduced payroll.

By Ira Linville

August 28, 2006 11:38 AM | Link to this

I am a 64-year old native Kentuckian who has been a Brave fan since I was a kid listening on the radio. I also remember Diz and the Georgia Crackers. I spent 20 adult years in Georgia. For the life of me I cannot understand John Schuerholtz, the “magician”. Just look at what former Braves are doing that Johnny let get away. Jermaine Dye is a good example. And he trades away the future of the Braves. Obvioulsy player loyalty is not one of his strong suits. I say it is time for Schuerholtz to go and someone who cares rebuild the Braves.

By Dirk

August 28, 2006 11:39 AM | Link to this

It is really time for JS to go. He has written his book, he has given us a few good years, but ever since McGriff for a bag of balls, his trades and signings have been questionable.

He got rid of the heart of the team and got back a motormouth little whiner in Kenny Lofton.

He gave away a future MVP candidate (Dye) and got Keith Lockhart.

He gave away the third baseman of the future becuase he forgot to lockup the shortstop of the future longterm.

He has NEVER been able to give Bobby the bullpen we so desperately need.

Now, he is too busy being a prima donna and worry about how he is seen and how is book is selling. It is time for John to move on. Bring in a GM who is ready, and knows how to win with a reduced payroll.

By h8-da-braves

August 28, 2006 11:42 AM | Link to this

Scheurholz has always been an a big arrogant A-hole. It’s taken all you brave fans a long time to figure it out. He’s probably a cross dresser too.

By tom

August 28, 2006 11:45 AM | Link to this

I HAVE ALWAYS HATED THE BRAVES , BEING A HUGE METS FAN. BUT, I HAVE ALWAYS BEEN JOHN SMOLTZ’S BIGGEST FAN. OMAR, WILL YOU PLEASE GET THIS GEM AND GIVE HIM 17 MILLION FOR TWO YEARS. PLEASE!

By Mara Thompson

August 28, 2006 11:46 AM | Link to this

HOMEBOY vs SMOLTZ HEART OF TEAM homeboy 0 - Smoltz millions+

Homeboy better wake up, and see the scoreboard. He wants to show he’s Big Man, but fact is, Smoltz is the heart of the team. Homeboy needs to sign Smoltz, (or step aside, and someone else do it)and apologize for his past comments. This is not the first time Homeboy has hurt our team, but should be the last.

Nobody would miss Homeboy, but the team would lose it’s heart, and most of the fans if Smoltz were not a Brave. Players, managers and fans need Smoltz- Homeboy just seems to “need power”. Sad, but don’t let him destroy us!!

By Kim

August 28, 2006 11:46 AM | Link to this

I generally agree with GM ploicy of no doing anything with contracts during the season, but if anyone on the team ever deserved a commitment it has to be John Smoltz. He has done everything that the Braves have ever asked of him. So please give him the answer he is waiting on and do it NOW!

By Rusty

August 28, 2006 11:47 AM | Link to this

I will admit I am not a statician and I don’t have all of the numbers that prove my reasons why John Smoltz should have his option picked up. The guys has been with the team for a long time and has done alot to help the team. Plus the biggest asset he has is his relationship with GOD. Now in this time, a man of GOD is a rare find especially in organized professional athletics. So John you have my support to be upset and to question the loyalty of a team that you have dedicated so much hard work to. Thanks for your time.

By Sam

August 28, 2006 11:49 AM | Link to this

This is a non-story that should’ve been written a day before the deadline…not 2 months.

Jeff is trying to stir the pot and obviously it’s worked.

Everyone needs to chill out. Smoltz is fine to comment on this as he has and John is fine not to re-sign him yet. Big deal.

My guess is that the option will be picked up and then he’ll be traded for a package of prospects and/or young arms.

I love the Braves and hate to read all this negativity. We’ve had a bad year. It happens.

It doesn’t help to stir the pot like this…

By Rusty

August 28, 2006 11:49 AM | Link to this

I will admit I am not a statician and I don’t have all of the numbers that prove my reasons why John Smoltz should have his option picked up. The guys has been with the team for a long time and has done alot to help the team. Plus the biggest asset he has is his relationship with GOD. Now in this time, a man of GOD is a rare find especially in organized professional athletics. So John you have my support to be upset and to question the loyalty of a team that you have dedicated so much hard work to. Thanks for your time.

By Tom Johnson

August 28, 2006 11:49 AM | Link to this

If the Braves do not pick up John Smoltz, I will probably root for whatever team he goes to. I have been a Braves fan since the early 1970’s but I have watched to many pitchers being let go (Tommy, Greg, to mention a few). I love the Braves, but I can not stand paying second rate pitchers more than Smoltz. He has been a shinning light during his career with the Braves. With out him we would not be hoping that this was going to be the 15th consective title.

By matches

August 28, 2006 11:53 AM | Link to this

This is a non-story. Smoltz’s option will be picked up by the team. $8 mil per year for a pitcher of Smoltz’s caliber is a HUGE bargain, and it will be exercised.

And Smoltz knows this, too. He’s not stupid. He knows he would command at least $13-14 mil on the free agent market, and that the Braves would be foolish to let him walk. Smoltz is frustrated that it hasn’t ALREADY been exercised, and probably frustrated in general with a lost season. No surprise there - Smoltz is an intense competitor who doesn’t like to lose. I doubt any of us would have it any other way.

Smoltz and JS will be fine, with or without (preferably without) the AJC and the ‘net microanalyzing every detail of their relationship.

By Lisa

August 28, 2006 11:55 AM | Link to this

Good article. Smoltz is only telling the truth and I guess it hurts. The Braves NEED him and of course those of us die hard fans can’t bear to think of him pitching somplace else. Come on Schuerholtz put your pride aside and renew that contract.

By Sam

August 28, 2006 11:56 AM | Link to this

This is a non-story that should’ve been written a day before the deadline…not 2 months.

Jeff is trying to stir the pot and obviously it’s worked.

Everyone needs to chill out. Smoltz is fine to comment on this as he has and John is fine not to re-sign him yet. Big deal.

My guess is that the option will be picked up and then he’ll be traded for a package of prospects and/or young arms.

I love the Braves and hate to read all this negativity. We’ve had a bad year. It happens.

It doesn’t help to stir the pot like this…

By Arkansas Arnie

August 28, 2006 11:58 AM | Link to this

Let him go somewhere else to do his complaining. Nobody here really cares. Maybe we can get a sack of donuts for him and be a lot better off. Over paid and under achieving ….. But that sums up the ntire team. Send the whole lot out with the next garbage pickup. Good luck losers …

By Don

August 28, 2006 11:59 AM | Link to this

Someone hit is on the head. The trades and not renewing of contracts that homeboy has made recently are crazy.

Anyone with a half and eye for baseball knows that Betemit is going to be a hall of famer. Homeboy trades him for a so-so infeilder and a has been relief pitcher, both of whom are on the DL while Betemit is winning games.

Dont have a place for Betemit, trade Chipper and keep the youngster. Betemit is another Dye in the making. Dont remember the player we got for Dye, but unlikely he was anything or I would remember.

Its time to cut the crap, Homeboy has to go. Someone local needs to buy back the Braves and return the tradition to winning games instead of making money. But even making money is not happening with the Braves.

I for one, will never go to another game until the Braves are sold.

By bushwacker

August 28, 2006 12:01 PM | Link to this

YOUR RIGHT DIRK,

Had he not traded Justice and the most important player Marquis Grissom for that worthless Lofton,the Braves would have won 4 championships instead of the Yankees!!

Scheurholz will deinitely lose if it comes down to him or Smoltz in this town. Its timw for Bobby to stand up and say get rid of Scheurholz OR HE and Smoltz will both be walking!!

By Gota love em

August 28, 2006 12:01 PM | Link to this

Scheurholz is just trying to get through this terrible year. He will take the option. Unless he has been told not to do anything. You don’t know whats up with this team. We have no owner who cares remember.

By Arkansas Arnie

August 28, 2006 12:02 PM | Link to this

Let him go somewhere else to do his complaining. Nobody here really cares. Maybe we can get a sack of donuts for him and be a lot better off. Over paid and under achieving ….. But that sums up the ntire team. Send the whole lot out with the next garbage pickup. Good luck losers …

By bushwacker

August 28, 2006 12:03 PM | Link to this

YOUR RIGHT DIRK,

Had he not traded Justice and the most important player Marquis Grissom for that worthless Lofton,the Braves would have won 4 championships instead of the Yankees!!

Scheurholz will deinitely lose if it comes down to him or Smoltz in this town. Its timw for Bobby to stand up and say get rid of Scheurholz OR HE and Smoltz will both be walking!!

By Don

August 28, 2006 12:04 PM | Link to this

Someone hit the nail on the head. The trades and not renewing of contracts that homeboy has made recently are crazy.

Why treat Smoltz like you did Glavin and Maddaux? Makes no sence. 3 Hall of Fame players and you treat them like dirt. No wonder Glavin and Maddaux were glad they left. Go Smoltz, go and finish your career in style somewhere else.

Anyone with a half and eye for baseball knows that Betemit is going to be a hall of famer. Homeboy trades him for a so-so infielder and a has been relief pitcher, both of whom are on the DL while Betemit is winning games.

Dont have a place for Betemit, trade Chipper and keep the youngster. Betemit is another Dye in the making. Dont remember the player we got for Dye, but unlikely he was anything or I would remember.

Its time to cut the crap, Homeboy has to go. Someone local needs to buy back the Braves and return the tradition to winning games instead of making money. But even making money is not happening with the Braves.

I for one, will never go to another game until the Braves are sold.

By bushwacker

August 28, 2006 12:04 PM | Link to this

YOUR RIGHT DIRK,

Had he not traded Justice and the most important player Marquis Grissom for that worthless Lofton,the Braves would have won 4 championships instead of the Yankees!!

Scheurholz will deinitely lose if it comes down to him or Smoltz in this town. Its timw for Bobby to stand up and say get rid of Scheurholz OR HE and Smoltz will both be walking!!

By Larry

August 28, 2006 12:06 PM | Link to this

There is one simple reason why the Braves are not exercising Smoltz’s option until the exercise date—they don’t have to. Smoltz is an aging pitcher with a history of arm trouble. As intelligent businessmen, the Braves would be crazy to exercise the option any time before the end of the season. If Smoltz has a career-ending arm injury, they would be out the $8 million, which is that much less they will have to spend on a viable young arm to replace him. I would love to see Smoltz in a Braves uniform until he retires in 3 or 4 years, but he is way off base in lambasting the Braves for not exercising the option without giving something up himself, like signing a longer term contract or granting the Braves a club option for another year.

By Don

August 28, 2006 12:09 PM | Link to this

Someone hit the nail on the head. The trades and not renewing of contracts that homeboy has made recently are crazy.

Why treat Smoltz like you did Glavin and Maddaux? Makes no sence. 3 Hall of Fame players and you treat them like dirt. No wonder Glavin and Maddaux were glad they left. Go Smoltz, go and finish your career in style somewhere else.

Anyone with a half and eye for baseball knows that Betemit is going to be a hall of famer. Homeboy trades him for a so-so infielder and a has been relief pitcher, both of whom are on the DL while Betemit is winning games.

Dont have a place for Betemit, trade Chipper and keep the youngster. Betemit is another Dye in the making. Dont remember the player we got for Dye, but unlikely he was anything or I would remember.

Its time to cut the crap, Homeboy has to go. Someone local needs to buy back the Braves and return the tradition to winning games instead of making money. But even making money is not happening with the Braves.

I for one, will never go to another game until the Braves are sold.

By chuck

August 28, 2006 12:10 PM | Link to this

Smoltzie, Chipper, and Andrew are the heart of the Braves. They need to stay with the team until they retire. NOTHING ELSE WOULD BE ACCEPTABLE.

These guys could all have gone elsewhere for money. I’ve already cancelled AOL and gone broadband because I hate what they are doing to our team. Surely there is enough money somewhere in Atlanta to keep us in the hunt.

I know this. If Smoltz goes because Schuerholz has his feelings hurt, that will end it for me and the Braves. You just don’t mistreat someone who has given you total loyalty for 19 years. He has been a great competitor and an even better man.

By Larry

August 28, 2006 12:16 PM | Link to this

There is one simple reason why the Braves are not exercising Smoltz’s option until the exercise date—they don’t have to. Smoltz is an aging pitcher with a history of arm trouble. As intelligent businessmen, the Braves would be crazy to exercise the option any time before the end of the season. If Smoltz has a career-ending arm injury, they would be out the $8 million, which is that much less they will have to spend on a viable young arm to replace him. I would love to see Smoltz in a Braves uniform until he retires in 3 or 4 years, but he is way off base in lambasting the Braves for not exercising the option without giving something up himself, like signing a longer term contract or granting the Braves a club option for another year.

By DCEMORY

August 28, 2006 12:17 PM | Link to this

I am sick of all you spoiled rotten fans bad mouthing players and our legendary general manager. So what? We are not likely going to catch a wiff of post season play. After 14 years of consecutive success, the stirring of unlikely business propositions(Smoltz leaving ATL) and heated media comments in regard, are only expected. I don’t care about the divison anymore. Looking foward to next year, the Braves will contend, and they will keep Smoltz. The real crybabies are you fairweather, pessimistic fans. Cry me a stinkin river

By journalist PENN

August 28, 2006 12:20 PM | Link to this

Harmony is hard to come by when you are losing. John Scheurholz was a genius for 14 years and now he’s an idiot.

Bobby Cox was voted manager of the year two years in a row and one year later he’s an idiot.

John Smoltz was an idiot for insisting he be returned to the starting rotation and now he’s a genius.

When they win again everybody will suddenly be geniuses again.

By matches

August 28, 2006 12:20 PM | Link to this

“There is one simple reason why the Braves are not exercising Smoltz’s option until the exercise date—they don’t have to. Smoltz is an aging pitcher with a history of arm trouble. As intelligent businessmen, the Braves would be crazy to exercise the option any time before the end of the season. If Smoltz has a career-ending arm injury, they would be out the $8 million, which is that much less they will have to spend on a viable young arm to replace him.”

Bingo. Nail, meet head.

This is routine. The option WILL be exercised. I get why Smoltz wants it done sooner, and a man of Smoltz’s intelligence understands why it hasn’t been. He’s venting. That’s it.

(BTW anyone with a eye for baseball can see that Betemit is a Hall of Famer? Seriously? I like the guy, too, but… seriously? Is everyone reading their posts before clicking “post”?)

By DCEMORY

August 28, 2006 12:25 PM | Link to this

I am sick of all you spoiled rotten fans bad mouthing players and our legendary general manager. So what? We are not likely going to catch a wiff of post season play. After 14 years of consecutive success, the stirring of unlikely business propositions(Smoltz leaving ATL) and heated media comments in regard, are only expected. I don’t care about the divison anymore. Looking foward to next year, the Braves will contend, and they will keep Smoltz. The real crybabies are you fairweather, pessimistic fans. Cry me a stinkin river

By Liz

August 28, 2006 12:27 PM | Link to this

GET RID OF SCHUERHOLZ…that’s pretty simple! Everybody treats him like a god. Well, it’s time to call a spade a spade…there are two common denominators in the winning streak and in only one World Series win…Johnny (Schuerholz) boy and Bobby Cox. Cox has done more with less than any other MLB manager. Everyone in Atlanta blames the Braves fall from the elite on AOL/Time Warner, and that obviously has been a factor. But, John Schuerholz has been lucky! The Braves organization should be more than ashamed of itself for not being more loyal to John Smoltz, whether others like it or not, Smoltz is the cement that has held this organization together and that has kept some semblance of a fan base. Not John Schuerholz or Bobby Cox or darling Chipper Jones. If John Smoltz goes, so do the majority of the Braves fans!!! The only thing “elitist” about the Braves these days is John Schuerholz! Does he need to be reminded of Tom Glavine’s record with the Mets or what Greg Maddux has done for the Dodgers…oh yeah…they were washed up, right? Get rid of Schuerholz!!!

By Liz

August 28, 2006 12:32 PM | Link to this

GET RID OF SCHUERHOLZ…that’s pretty simple! Everybody treats him like a god. Well, it’s time to call a spade a spade…there are two common denominators in the winning streak and in only one World Series win…Johnny (Schuerholz) boy and Bobby Cox. Cox has done more with less than any other MLB manager. Everyone in Atlanta blames the Braves fall from the elite on AOL/Time Warner, and that obviously has been a factor. But, John Schuerholz has been lucky! The Braves organization should be more than ashamed of itself for not being more loyal to John Smoltz, whether others like it or not, Smoltz is the cement that has held this organization together and that has kept some semblance of a fan base. Not John Schuerholz or Bobby Cox or darling Chipper Jones. If John Smoltz goes, so do the majority of the Braves fans!!! The only thing “elitist” about the Braves these days is John Schuerholz! Does he need to be reminded of Tom Glavine’s record with the Mets or what Greg Maddux has done for the Dodgers…oh yeah…they were washed up, right? Get rid of Schuerholz!!!

By Liz

August 28, 2006 12:32 PM | Link to this

GET RID OF SCHUERHOLZ…that’s pretty simple! Everybody treats him like a god. Well, it’s time to call a spade a spade…there are two common denominators in the winning streak and in only one World Series win…Johnny (Schuerholz) boy and Bobby Cox. Cox has done more with less than any other MLB manager. Everyone in Atlanta blames the Braves fall from the elite on AOL/Time Warner, and that obviously has been a factor. But, John Schuerholz has been lucky! The Braves organization should be more than ashamed of itself for not being more loyal to John Smoltz, whether others like it or not, Smoltz is the cement that has held this organization together and that has kept some semblance of a fan base. Not John Schuerholz or Bobby Cox or darling Chipper Jones. If John Smoltz goes, so do the majority of the Braves fans!!! The only thing “elitist” about the Braves these days is John Schuerholz! Does he need to be reminded of Tom Glavine’s record with the Mets or what Greg Maddux has done for the Dodgers…oh yeah…they were washed up, right? Get rid of Schuerholz!!!

By Head Coach

August 28, 2006 12:38 PM | Link to this

Jeff Schultz has made a mountain out of a mole hill.

By die hard braves fan

August 28, 2006 12:41 PM | Link to this

all i can say is…

KISS THE DIVISION GOODBYE!

All good things must come to an end!

WHERE’s TED TURNER?

The biggesst mistake that the Braves did

was letting Madduxx and Glavine go!!

we have 3 HOF on the same team!!!! Smoltz, Madduxx and Glavine?!?!?

and what did we get for madduxx and glavine?!?!?

not a dern thang!

boo hoo!

By die hard braves fan

August 28, 2006 12:45 PM | Link to this

Please dont remind me about J-Dye!!

Man we need a power hitter like him!

we shoulda trade andruw to get dye!

By Sharis

August 28, 2006 12:55 PM | Link to this

We live within driving distance to Turner Field and attend games there whenever possible. Lately, John Smoltz is the primary player we want to see. He sets a great example for our kids and loves his team-even giving up an opportunity for a higher salary to stay with the Braves a few years back. If he leaves, I personally will find very little reason to return to Turner Field for a long time. Too many of our beloved players are sent away and many of them prove that they still have the ability to play the game, but for other teams now. How many of these players have returned to play against us and the Braves fans give them standing ovations. The fans should have a BIG say-so in this matter!! The atmosphere at Braves games just isn’t the same as it used to be.

By Ken

August 28, 2006 12:57 PM | Link to this

Fellow fans do understand a few things about the Brave front “officer”. On Betimit, he became expendable a couple of years ago’ no matter hew good he got it was not going to be in Atlanta because “Homeboy” has a boy in AAA that he is going to make sure is in the big league next season. /With Wilson still here it would be hard to justify Junior talent wise and body to be in the dugout with Bobby in 07. Oh Yeah Bobby is not a fan of this, it is killing him but he too has chosen to let ole Johnny Boy run the ship deeper into the sand bar while burning the engine completely, thinking that he can force it through…. Like players GM’s have their runs and outstay their former touch. Time to move on he has lost his team, touch, Bobby, and you know when Smoltz has a problem with someone there is a mutiny brewing. Do no let him ride Jeff, Brian and the other futures coattails thinking he is a genius. Understand this there is no known written requirements that add up to genius it is bestowed to someone who does the extraordinary time and time again. Homeboy has only suceeded in having us to believe in 1995 over and over again without 95 results(curse of Justice)remember DAve’s parting words about homeboy. He took Bobby’s system and took credit. The pieces he added collectively did not produce the RING. Look at the Team in NY they demand the Ring or you’re not there. As fans we get tired of meatloaf every year 14 years worth of of meatloaf in a row. Ted was a better manager than that for crying out loud. Did you know someone told Homeboy that he was on the levels of a Cashman of the Yanks, Minaya of the mets the kid in boston,what’s his face in anaheim. He is scared to do something big thinking it’ll screw up his legacy in the event it do no pan out butt guess what? you don’t have one to lose All you ever has done is lose when it really count,September and October. He get to the well but can’t drink. Wonder how Chipper,Smoltz, Greg, Tommy,even Rocker is gonna sound like Justice 10-15 years down the road saying how he took many RINGS afraid to shoot. Maybe we could call him JOHNNY FIFE. Perhaps JOHNNY OUT of HERE.

By Shaun Payne

August 28, 2006 01:00 PM | Link to this

Smoltz is a starter

John Smoltz was an idiot for insisting he be returned to the starting rotation and now he’s a genius.

I don’t know what was meant by this comment but I hope the point wasn’t that Smoltz should be a closer. It was a smart move to put Smoltz back into the rotation and he shouldn’t go back to the ‘pen for the rest of his career.

By Jeffrey

August 28, 2006 01:01 PM | Link to this

Here is a guess that John Schuerholz exits to the GM job in Washington working under Stan Kasten. Of course he would have to get his boy traded to the Nats as well. Let Bobby go back to the GM job and turn the team over to someone with some fire in their belly like Terry Pendleton or Lou Piniella.

By Melissa

August 28, 2006 01:09 PM | Link to this

Smoltz needs to be picked up for next year since it seems his pitching is the only thing that the braves have going for them right now.

By Stephen

August 28, 2006 01:11 PM | Link to this

Dont blame me, i voted for Smoltzie.

By David P. McKnight

August 28, 2006 01:11 PM | Link to this

Smoltzy has a good couple or three years left and then some. Here’s hoping the Braves will come to their senses.

If not, we Oriole fzans would sure like to have a pitcher like John.

By bobbie

August 28, 2006 01:12 PM | Link to this

Nick @ Nite is an idiot. What team are you watching? Our hilight this year has been John Smoltz. Not only is he a GREAT player but such a publicly positive guy. I truely hope we keep him it will be a terrible loss. Bird dawg you are right on it! LETS KEEP ANDRU JONES!!!!!!!!!!!

By Tami

August 28, 2006 01:13 PM | Link to this

Gosh…I’d hate to see where the Braves would be without Smoltz! I’ve been a BIG fan of Cox/Scheurholz for a while. But, I’m thinking that it’s time for a “changing of the guard” now. That conclusion has taken me a long, long time to come to.

JS: If you should decide to retire when your tenure is up with the Braves, at least do the decent thing and keep Smoltzie around. One of the “young guns” deserves to retire as a Brave, and Smoltzie’s the one!!

By slthree

August 28, 2006 01:15 PM | Link to this

I appreciate what the “homeboy” has done in keeping our Braves competitive. But, if it ever comes down to Smoltz v Schuerholz I side with Smoltz. He risked losing a chance to be a Hall of Famer by going to the pen and he risked it again by coming back to the rotation. He does whats best for the team and the Atlanta Braves owe him big time. He has rescued this team time and again and has been this team’s best big game pitcher, ever. Enough said.

By Samuel Gore

August 28, 2006 01:20 PM | Link to this

Smoltz’s remarks about Scheurholz seem a bit harsh. He must realize that Mr. Scheurholz had a book to write and promote and did a real good job doing just that.

Give the man a break! He had his man Sosa at the ready and Reitsma in the bullpen to keep it all on track, so he didn’t pay a lot of attention to just how the team was to win if they didn’t perform as was the plan.

The man is getting to retire, for Pete’s sake! Give the old guy a break, and hope he hasn’t thought of a subject for a new book between now and spring training.

By Brad

August 28, 2006 01:21 PM | Link to this

Arkansas Arnie, you said smoltz is overpaid, and underachieving? Not sure I’m seeing that. Smoltz is the best pitcher on the Braves. He is 12-6 but have a better record if our bullpen could actually keep a lead. Right now he leads “the National League in innings pitched (190) and strikeouts-to-walks ratio (4.40), and ranked second in strikeouts (176) and lowest opponents’ on-base percentage (.286).”

Somehow I don’t see the underachieving.

About the complaining about the option. I see both sides. I see how Smoltz would want to know if the option will be picked up. I also see JS side of it. He doesn’t want to pick up the option and then Smoltz get hurt really bad. I think somebody else in the blog said something like this earler.

Also, they are not going to pick up the option and then trade him. They would let him go, collect the two draft picks and use the money for another player.

By Samuel Gore

August 28, 2006 01:22 PM | Link to this

Smoltz’s remarks about Scheurholz seem a bit harsh. He must realize that Mr. Scheurholz had a book to write and promote and did a real good job doing just that.

Give the man a break! He had his man Sosa at the ready and Reitsma in the bullpen to keep it all on track, so he didn’t pay a lot of attention to just how the team was to win if they didn’t perform as was the plan.

The man is getting to retire, for Pete’s sake! Give the old guy a break, and hope he hasn’t thought of a subject for a new book between now and spring training.

By Samuel Gore

August 28, 2006 01:23 PM | Link to this

Smoltz’s remarks about Scheurholz seem a bit harsh. He must realize that Mr. Scheurholz had a book to write and promote and did a real good job doing just that.

Give the man a break! He had his man Sosa at the ready and Reitsma in the bullpen to keep it all on track, so he didn’t pay a lot of attention to just how the team was to win if they didn’t perform as was the plan.

The man is getting to retire, for Pete’s sake! Give the old guy a break, and hope he hasn’t thought of a subject for a new book between now and spring training.

By bobbie

August 28, 2006 01:23 PM | Link to this

Nick @ Nite is an idiot. What team are you watching? Our hilight this year has been John Smoltz. Not only is he a GREAT player but such a publicly positive guy. I truely hope we keep him it will be a terrible loss. Bird dawg you are right on it! LETS KEEP ANDRU JONES!!!!!!!!!!!

By Shaun Payne

August 28, 2006 01:24 PM | Link to this

Schuerholz is obviously a great GM. He’s won everywhere. He’s not perfect, but who is? I think he deserves to leave Atlanta whenever he wants to leave Atlanta. Look where the franchise was before he got here. It should be his and Bobby’s call as to when they will step down.

By Guy

August 28, 2006 01:25 PM | Link to this

Please be patient John Smoltz. I don’t want to see you go somewhere else. A new Gen. Manager would be nice. Schuerholz has used up his ideas. Time to move on. A new owner is necessary. One that will not need a tax write off to build their other more important company. Why does the IRS allow a write off over company boundries? Why does baseball allow owners to reside in one city and own a club in another city? Especfially when the two teams are in competition with one another! That is a conflict of interest and really looks like manipulation of winners and loosers is taking place.

By Pamela

August 28, 2006 01:41 PM | Link to this

I think The General Manager, could listen to a team leader. If it were not for Smoltz the Braves would be buried in the cellar. If the organization trades Smolt it will lose a large fan base. The entertaining part of watching MLB is good pitching, which is the object of the game. See, some people think homeruns is the game, but, if you know baseball it is to keep the runners off the bases and that’s where Smotlz is professional.

By Robert

August 28, 2006 01:47 PM | Link to this

Kudos to Smoltz, the one true warrior on the Braves ever since David Justice left town, for calling out the GM

Now follow it up and call out the donkey manager and this team can start to heal

By Samuel Gore

August 28, 2006 01:48 PM | Link to this

Smoltz’s remarks about Scheurholz seem a bit harsh. He must realize that Mr. Scheurholz had a book to write and promote and did a real good job doing just that. So what if he might have missed a few particulars here and there, the man was busy taking care of his writing career. When retirement is on the horizon a man must take care not to be leaving the workplace financially unprepared.

So give the man a break! He had Sosa at the ready and Reitsma in the bullpen to keep it all on track, so he didn’t pay a lot of attention to just how the team was to win if they didn’t perform as was the plan. The book was distracting.

As far as Smoltz goes Mr. Scheurholz just hasn’t found a discard from another team that would fit with his plans and too, the disable list is still pretty full. No need getting another pitcher on the team when he might be getting lost among all those who are trying to recover from arm troubles from this past season. He might be keeping Smoltz, but who knows what the future holds? Scheurholz might just find that he is compelled to write another book.

By Shaun Payne

August 28, 2006 01:57 PM | Link to this

This is an indication that chemistry=winning

To all those that say you need chemistry to win: Smoltz’s comments are an indication that winning builds up chemistry, losing leads to less chemistry. Do you think Smoltz, always a competitor, would make these comments during the season and create a distraction if the Braves were in the thick of the playoff race?

By old fart 63

August 28, 2006 01:59 PM | Link to this

Psst … when you hit 60 years of age … it’s time to move on (I know … I’m 63). It’s not that you completely lose it … but you do begin to slip … to forget … to asssume. Like Walsh said about Montana. (Paraphrased - “He can play one game like he once did … but he can’t play two in a row like he once did.”

John and Bobby, the party’s over. Time to clear out your desks and head for the golf course or farm or whatever. The AJC’s gotta couple of other old farts that need to hang em up too.

By Mike fromValdosta

August 28, 2006 02:03 PM | Link to this

I agree John Smoltz is the heart and soul of this team. He really takes it to another level when The Braves need someone to step up and be a stopper. What I do not understand is why JS sits by and lets theses good players go by the Braves on the waiver wire. The Braves have the first option of blocking a trade because of their standinds. I am wondering who is actually pulling the strings upstairs in management. Smoltz is right. Wickman was a great aquisition. We need to pick up the option on Smoltz, resign Wickman and clean house on the bullpen. I have been an avid Braves fan all my life. NOT a fair weather fan. Use to stay up til 2-3 am when they played on the west coast and was loosing 100 games a season. Lets not let these guys down. Keep supporting the Braves but voice your opinions and put pressure on management to keep our younger guys and bring in the veterans we need to get our pitching back to the top of the league where it belongs. John Smoltz is still one of the top pitchers in the game and we can STILL build a great team around him with the nucleus we have of young and old players. FIX THE BULLPEN JS!!!

By Nick

August 28, 2006 02:07 PM | Link to this

As a Met fan, living in Atlanta, I’m taking pleasure in the Braves demise. I will say this though. I completely respect John Smoltz and think he is 100% right here. Admit it or not, he has been the lifeblood of this team for the past few years. Between his 40+ Saves and 14-7 record last year, he is a staple in the Braves clubhouse.

If Schuerholz is too afraid to spend the money to keep his ACE VETERINE. I can think of any number of contending clubs (that can give run support) who would be happy to do so…including the Mets.

I hope, for your sake, he’s in a Braves uniform next year. I always enjoy watching Smoltz pitch…

By Nick

August 28, 2006 02:07 PM | Link to this

As a Met fan, living in Atlanta, I’m taking pleasure in the Braves demise. I will say this though. I completely respect John Smoltz and think he is 100% right here. Admit it or not, he has been the lifeblood of this team for the past few years. Between his 40+ Saves and 14-7 record last year, he is a staple in the Braves clubhouse.

If Schuerholz is too afraid to spend the money to keep his ACE VETERINE. I can think of any number of contending clubs (that can give run support) who would be happy to do so…including the Mets.

I hope, for your sake, he’s in a Braves uniform next year. I always enjoy watching Smoltz pitch…

By Rodger

August 28, 2006 02:09 PM | Link to this

Until his next book, no one will know the conversations SmoltZ & Schuerholz may have had. I prefer to give “homeboy” benefit of the doubt. Regardless what many of you seem to think, for the majority of his time here, he has put some pretty damn good players on the field. No team, even the Yankees & Red Sox, keeps everyone they would like to keep. Sometimes, economics have to take precedence over desire. I don’t see any liklihood Smoltz will not be re-signed for ‘07. Between frustration and context, lets give Smoltzie a pass.

By h8-da-braves

August 28, 2006 02:12 PM | Link to this

All I know is that there’s nothing better than to see the braves collaps and begin to desintergrate from within. Now they can all live off the past and talk crap about days gone by. After the braves leave New York in Sept 4,5,and 6 the Mets will “bitc*$^&h slap” the braves again and all that talk about winning the Wild Card can finally come to an end

By Mary S. Cook

August 28, 2006 02:15 PM | Link to this

I have been a Braves fan from the very beginning and follow them each day they are on TV. I cannot even imagine the Braves without John Smoltz….Re-Sign him and get him some help.

By Shaun Payne

August 28, 2006 02:26 PM | Link to this

Until his next book, no one will know the conversations SmoltZ & Schuerholz may have had. I prefer to give “homeboy” benefit of the doubt. Regardless what many of you seem to think, for the majority of his time here, he has put some pretty damn good players on the field. No team, even the Yankees & Red Sox, keeps everyone they would like to keep. Sometimes, economics have to take precedence over desire. I don’t see any liklihood Smoltz will not be re-signed for ‘07. Between frustration and context, lets give Smoltzie a pass.

I agree. I think the Braves are not picking up the option until after the season because Schuerholz like to do those kinds of things after the season. I think it’s unlikely that the Braves will let Smoltz walk when they have him for $8 million, a bargain for an ace starter.

By Mary

August 28, 2006 02:27 PM | Link to this

If Schuerholtz let John Smotz go I’m done with the BRAVES! John Smotz is the only pitcher we have that you can count on!

By Long-time fan, first-time poster

August 28, 2006 02:33 PM | Link to this

All I can say is GOD BLESS JOHN SMOLTZ. The man is a class act in every sense of the word. He’s been here since the beginning and done everything he’s been asked — and then some. He is the only Brave whose desire and committment are NEVER questioned. And he has ALWAYS come up big whenever he’s been handed the ball, especially in the postseason. I will and will always be a fan of his no matter what happens or where he goes. As far as I am concerned, he’s right up there with Hank. Murph and Knucksie as the greatest Atlanta Braves ever.

By pete

August 28, 2006 02:39 PM | Link to this

Schuerholz has done so much for the Braves but I am less than enthused about his treatment of hurler like Smoltz. Shuerholz is a tremendous GM that is getting old. When he leaves I will be sorry to see him go and at the same time welcome a breath of fresh air.

By joe

August 28, 2006 02:39 PM | Link to this

Smoltz has been a good pitcher. However he seems very arrogant to me(aka a spoiled brat). In the end though, looks like another subway series this year. The Bravos will be watching it from home on TV. Go Yankees! Go Mets!

By janice

August 28, 2006 02:41 PM | Link to this

So what else is new? Isn’t this the way the Braves management treated Tom Glavine and Greg Maddux? I guess it was just a matter of time…

By Paul

August 28, 2006 02:46 PM | Link to this

Ever since “homeboy’S” book came out, he feels he is a Godlike GM. He dropped the ball on Wilson and fixing the pitching staff…now he’s screwing the one guy who has kept the Braves in the race at all.

By jimmy

August 28, 2006 02:47 PM | Link to this

i am so tired of hearing what a genius schuerholz is. he came to the braves in 1990. when he got here glavine was already here, smoltz was already here, steve avery was already here. the majority of the players who contributed to the braves winning thru the late 90’s had nothing to do with his being so smart. you fans can admit it or not but the braves have been slowly declining since the late 90’s. i am not saying schuerholz has not made any good moves because he has. he is also the one who brought tim hudson to the braves and i would like to know if anybody can give me a higher priced pitcher who has contributed less to his team than hudson. as far as smoltz being the heart and soul of the team, who cares, forget about all of that. he is still one of the best pitchers in baseball. that is the reason to sign him, not because he is a good guy. any of you idiots who say that smoltz has been selfish by not wanting to stay in the bullpen don’t understand enough about baseball and pitching to even deserve to put a post on this site. why don’t ya’ll go on back to your fantasy baseball sites where you belong.

By andrew

August 28, 2006 02:47 PM | Link to this

does anyone else find it odd that every single person mentioned in the article has the initials “JS”? maybe it’s just me =P

By Ouch

August 28, 2006 02:59 PM | Link to this

How’s that inevitable Mets slump coming? But I guess they have lost one out of the last ten. Meanwhile, seven more wins and the Braves will be at .500. Can’t wait to meet the Braves in the NLCS .

BTW, Mets’ Magic Number = 18.

By TheNorthernJackMule

August 28, 2006 03:04 PM | Link to this

Why do you morons post your damned ignorant a$s comments 3 damned times?

By ron

August 28, 2006 03:20 PM | Link to this

Maybe time for Mr. homeboy to leave. Cam Bonifay, formerly of Macon, Georgia Tech, and GM of the Pittsburg Pirates would be a good replacement. He has ties to the area and the experience.

By MEB

August 28, 2006 03:25 PM | Link to this

Wake up everyone!!! Jeff Schultz is trying to sell newspapers. Smoltz will be back so don’t get your drawers in a wad.

By John Holmes

August 28, 2006 03:37 PM | Link to this

WOW! The night Smoltz tore old Dixie Down!

Wonder if he wants to go up north with his fellow former Brave starter and work for the Mets?

This is how greatness dies? In the papers for all to see the Braves’ dirty diapers.

WHAT A LOAD OF DUNG! (being southernly polite I subsitituted the obvious four letter word)

By Big Bad Booty Daddy

August 28, 2006 03:51 PM | Link to this

Jeff Schultz doesn’t really believe this. What happened is that he was kidnapped by Smoltz and held hostage, then forced to convert to Lutheranism, then write this column.

Trade Smoltz now!!!!

Bring back Phil Niekro!

…and ostrich races!!!

(Oh, and how about you eggheads learning how to spell before posting???)

By h8-da-braves

August 28, 2006 04:08 PM | Link to this

Sept is around the corner and that Mets collaps hasn’t happened. What happened? I guess atlanta isn’t known for their fortune telling. Maybe you could brush up on your skills during the playoffs since you won’t have anything else to do.

By Dave in Tucson

August 28, 2006 04:25 PM | Link to this

“John Shuerholz is the best in the business… period.”

That’s one of the funniest lines I’ve read in ages. Oh, it hurts…You should be in Vegas.

By matches

August 28, 2006 04:37 PM | Link to this

“he is also the one who brought tim hudson to the braves and i would like to know if anybody can give me a higher priced pitcher who has contributed less to his team than hudson. “

Carl Pavano? Kevin Brown? Darren Dreifort? until this season, Tom Glavine in NY? Javier Vasquez? Mark Mulder?

That’s off the top of my head.

We can all rip on the Hudson deal now, with the benefit of hindsight. Every single one of us would have made the exact same move back in early 2005. JS isn’t operating with a crystal ball.

By Lynn

August 28, 2006 04:41 PM | Link to this

Hey…”homeboy” did this same kind of “business” with Tommy Glavine and now look at him…pitching better than ever for the Mets of all teams! I’m sorry but JS is loosing his touch as GM! Somebody please wake him up and tell to sign Smoltzie!

By Jimbo

August 28, 2006 04:47 PM | Link to this

While I totally agree JS blew this season and all blame should be laid at his doorstep, I also think this off-season is the time to trade Smoltz. His value will be high and I would not like to see him break down before our eyes. Better to trade him a year too early then a year too late.

By Cornholio

August 28, 2006 05:02 PM | Link to this

SMOLTZIE, ESCAPE WHILE YOU CAN !

DEMAND A TRADE TO DETROIT, AND LEAVE THESE LOSERS IN THE DUST ! THE BRAVES AREN’T GOING ANYWHERE FOR YEARS TO COME. END YOUR CAREER ON A WINNER AND GET A SHOT AT THE WORLD SERIES AND HALL OF FAME !

IT WON’T HAPPEN WITH JS AND A MANAGER WITH HIS FINGER UP HIS NOSE !

By Cornholio

August 28, 2006 05:02 PM | Link to this

SMOLTZIE, ESCAPE WHILE YOU CAN !

DEMAND A TRADE TO DETROIT, AND LEAVE THESE LOSERS IN THE DUST ! THE BRAVES AREN’T GOING ANYWHERE FOR YEARS TO COME. END YOUR CAREER ON A WINNER AND GET A SHOT AT THE WORLD SERIES AND HALL OF FAME !

IT WON’T HAPPEN WITH JS AND A MANAGER WITH HIS FINGER UP HIS NOSE !

By Cornholio

August 28, 2006 05:02 PM | Link to this

SMOLTZIE, ESCAPE WHILE YOU CAN !

DEMAND A TRADE TO DETROIT, AND LEAVE THESE LOSERS IN THE DUST ! THE BRAVES AREN’T GOING ANYWHERE FOR YEARS TO COME. END YOUR CAREER ON A WINNER AND GET A SHOT AT THE WORLD SERIES AND HALL OF FAME !

IT WON’T HAPPEN WITH JS AND A MANAGER WITH HIS FINGER UP HIS NOSE !

By Anna

August 28, 2006 05:04 PM | Link to this

For John Smoltz to be a successful relief pitcher, we need successful starting pitchers! Although Hudson seems to be shaping up, Smoltz is the only one we can count on. To take him out of the starting role would be to take away almost any chance we have of winning. As a lifelong baseball fan, the hardest lesson I had to learn was that in baseball, there seems to be no loyalty to players who consistently work hard, put up the numbers, and lead teams to success. I’ll never forget Sid Bream…..one day theywere praising him for his miraculous play….the next day he was gone! And how we could let Maddux and Glavine go is still an unsolved mystery!

By Anna

August 28, 2006 05:07 PM | Link to this

For John Smoltz to be a successful relief pitcher, we need successful starting pitchers! Although Hudson seems to be shaping up, Smoltz is the only one we can count on. To take him out of the starting role would be to take away almost any chance we have of winning. As a lifelong baseball fan, the hardest lesson I had to learn was that in baseball, there seems to be no loyalty to players who consistently work hard, put up the numbers, and lead teams to success. I’ll never forget Sid Bream…..one day theywere praising him for his miraculous play….the next day he was gone! And how we could let Maddux and Glavine go is still an unsolved mystery!

By madaboutmaddux2

August 28, 2006 05:15 PM | Link to this

I’m not surprised Schuerholz has not picked up Smoltz’s option.. In case no one else remembers, he treated Maddux the same way..

Never talked to Greg to find out what he would sign for; just did not offer him a contract…

I know for a fact that Bobby begged him to keep Maddux; that didn’t matter to Schuerholz. I really think it is time for him to move on…

Don’t be surprised if Smoltz is on another team next year..

By valarama

August 28, 2006 05:17 PM | Link to this

Smoltz should get better treatment, he’s all they have for consistant pitching & is a true team leader & player. Schuerholtz should just “put on his big girl panites & get over it”, this is business, no personality conflits.

By valarama

August 28, 2006 05:21 PM | Link to this

Smoltz should get better treatment, he’s all they have for consistant pitching & is a true team leader & player. Schuerholtz should just “put on his big girl panites & get over it”, this is business, no personality conflits.

By Zippy

August 28, 2006 05:22 PM | Link to this

Anna,

Sid Bream was dumped to get Fred McGriff, a significant improvement and primary reason we won it all in 1995.

Smoltzier deserves better than this. I’d like to see him end on a winning note, but it won’t be with the Braves.

With the extra money perhaps JS can extend Hudson & Hampton’s contracts, and re-sign Thomson and Reitsma.

By Zippy

August 28, 2006 05:22 PM | Link to this

Anna,

Sid Bream was dumped to get Fred McGriff, a significant improvement and primary reason we won it all in 1995.

Smoltzier deserves better than this. I’d like to see him end on a winning note, but it won’t be with the Braves.

With the extra money perhaps JS can extend Hudson & Hampton’s contracts, and re-sign Thomson and Reitsma.

By Zippy

August 28, 2006 05:22 PM | Link to this

Anna,

Sid Bream was dumped to get Fred McGriff, a significant improvement and primary reason we won it all in 1995.

Smoltzier deserves better than this. I’d like to see him end on a winning note, but it won’t be with the Braves.

With the extra money perhaps JS can extend Hudson & Hampton’s contracts, and re-sign Thomson and Reitsma.

By Zippy

August 28, 2006 05:22 PM | Link to this

Anna,

Sid Bream was dumped to get Fred McGriff, a significant improvement and primary reason we won it all in 1995.

Smoltzier deserves better than this. I’d like to see him end on a winning note, but it won’t be with the Braves.

With the extra money perhaps JS can extend Hudson & Hampton’s contracts, and re-sign Thomson and Reitsma.

By Zippy

August 28, 2006 05:22 PM | Link to this

Anna,

Sid Bream was dumped to get Fred McGriff, a significant improvement and primary reason we won it all in 1995.

Smoltzier deserves better than this. I’d like to see him end on a winning note, but it won’t be with the Braves.

With the extra money perhaps JS can extend Hudson & Hampton’s contracts, and re-sign Thomson and Reitsma.

By Zippy

August 28, 2006 05:22 PM | Link to this

Anna,

Sid Bream was dumped to get Fred McGriff, a significant improvement and primary reason we won it all in 1995.

Smoltzier deserves better than this. I’d like to see him end on a winning note, but it won’t be with the Braves.

With the extra money perhaps JS can extend Hudson & Hampton’s contracts, and re-sign Thomson and Reitsma.

By PJ

August 28, 2006 05:38 PM | Link to this

I think the Braves management and owner(s) (WHOEVER THEY MAY BE NOW) need to worry less about how to lighten the budget and more on beefing UP the budget. We keep losing our best players who want to play for the Braves. But Schuerholz (et al) don’t want to find the money to pay for talent. I don’t want Smoltzie to leave Atlanta, but I sure would understand if he did. And why shouldn’t he speak his mind. He, of ALL the players, has earned the right to say what he thinks about the club. He has worked harder than anyone else over the years to turn the club into a winner. We lost MAddux, Glavine and others we should have kept on. I guess Smoltzie and Chipper will be next. GET A GRIP ON THE CLUB MR SCHUERHOLZ! FInd the money we need to compete with the other big boys out there.

By Kathy Cherry

August 28, 2006 05:46 PM | Link to this

I CAN NOT BELIEVE WHAT I AM READING JOHN HAS BEEN THERE FOR EVERYTHING. HAS HELPED ALL THAT NEEDED IT. MY HUSBAND AND I ARE BRAVES FANS BUT THIS IS HARD FOR ME TO SWALLOW. IF YOU CAN PAY SOME THAT ARE LAZY AND ALL THAT THEY CAN DO IS EVERY ONCE IN AWHILE HIT A HOME RUN, WHY NOT PAY YOUR PITCHERS WHAT THEY ARE WORTH. MY GOSH IF YOU DONT HAVE THEM YOU ARE OUT OF LUCK. COME ON AND BE A MAN HOMEBOY NOT A MOUSE. AND WAY TO GO JEFF I APPLAUD YOU FOR SPEAKING YOUR MIND. JOHN I WILL BE WITH YOU ALL THE WAY KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK KATHY

By tman

August 28, 2006 05:48 PM | Link to this

Nick at Nite, what cheap drugs have you been on, son? There is no GM in the bigs as arrogant as Schuerholz and very few pitchers as classy (not to mention down right good at his job) as Smoltzie. I say let’s swap Omar Mineya for Shuerholz, his kid and his book royalties. He’s a dinosaur who hasn’t done squat in recent years. He’s just touchy about Smoltz’ comments, because they hit so damn close to home and are on the money.

By Cornholio

August 28, 2006 05:55 PM | Link to this

PJ,

HOW MUCH MORE MONEY DOES SCHUERHOLZ NEED ?

THE BRAVES ARE STILL AMONG THE HIGHEST PAYROLLS IN ALL OF BASEBALL.

COULD IT BE SCHUERHOLZ HAS MISMANAGED THE MONEY, TYING IT UP IN STIFFS LIKE HAMPTON, HUDSON, AND CHIPPER ?

THATS WHY WE GET RETREADS AND REJECTS FOR THE BULLPEN.

By Cornholio

August 28, 2006 05:55 PM | Link to this

PJ,

HOW MUCH MORE MONEY DOES SCHUERHOLZ NEED ?

THE BRAVES ARE STILL AMONG THE HIGHEST PAYROLLS IN ALL OF BASEBALL.

COULD IT BE SCHUERHOLZ HAS MISMANAGED THE MONEY, TYING IT UP IN STIFFS LIKE HAMPTON, HUDSON, AND CHIPPER ?

THATS WHY WE GET RETREADS AND REJECTS FOR THE BULLPEN.

By tman

August 28, 2006 06:21 PM | Link to this

Oh and please don’t get me started on the Betemit trade!

I respect Renteria, but he can hardly throw the ball to first base in time, his arm is so weak.

With Chipper playing a VERY old 34, Rent’s arm and Giles expendable, it sure was odd to trade a low paid, multi position player, with HR power, .300+ average and a strong arm wasn’t it?

Smacks of Jermaine Dye WAY too much… :(

By Ouch

August 28, 2006 06:22 PM | Link to this

Let’s take a moment to get to know the incoming NL East division winners:

Meet the Mets, Meet the Mets, Step right up and greet the Mets! Bring your kiddies, bring your wife, guaranteed to have the time of your life because the Mets are really sockin’ the ball, knockin’ those home runs over the wall! East Side, West Side, everybody’s coming down to meet the M-E-T-S Mets of New York town!

Oh, the butcher and the baker and the people on the streets, where did they go? TO MEET THE METS! Oh, they’re hollerin’ and cheerin’ and they’re jumpin’ in their seats, where did they go? TO MEET THE METS! All the fans are true to the orange and blue, so hurry up and come on down. ‘Cause we’ve got ourselves a ball club, the Mets of New York town!

Give ‘em a yell! Give ‘em a hand! And let ‘em know you’re rootin’ in the stand!

Come on and meet the Mets, Meet the Mets, Step right up and greet the Mets! Bring your kiddies, bring your wife, guaranteed to have the time of your life because the Mets are really sockin’ the ball, knockin’ those home runs over the wall! East Side, West Side, everybody’s coming down to meet the M-E-T-S Mets of New York town, of New York town!

By George Sumner

August 28, 2006 06:24 PM | Link to this

Since the best pitchers and the best pitching coach have slipped away from the Braves, the starters and relief pitchers have fumbled away enough games to be in contention now. What is next, “First to Worst”.

By Ouch

August 28, 2006 06:29 PM | Link to this

You know, you Braves fans are right…winning the division title does matter. I have been enjoying this season more than any since 1986. It’s just really nice to know your team is going to do well, and not have to sweat every game. I hope we win four or five in a row while Betsy (or whatever goofy nickname your top prospect has) scratches his butt in the field while he watches Beltran and Delgado’s homers fly over his head.

By Bobby C.

August 28, 2006 06:36 PM | Link to this

Will the last Braves fan to leave please turn out the lights?

See ya next year! Peese drive home safely.

By Formica Dinette

August 28, 2006 06:43 PM | Link to this

Let’s keep the Smoltz!! He deserves to retire from baseball as a Brave. Somehow though, I don’t think the GM agrees with me so Smoltz can join the other members of the “holy trinity”, Maddox, Glavin and now Smoltz.

By Formica Dinette

August 28, 2006 06:45 PM | Link to this

Let’s keep the Smoltz!! He deserves to retire from baseball as a Brave. Somehow though, I don’t think the GM agrees with me so Smoltz can join the other members of the “holy trinity”, Maddox, Glavin and now Smoltz.

By TS

August 28, 2006 06:52 PM | Link to this

Can John Smoltz be a starting pitcher and a GM? That would be perfect.

Let’s face it, even with Chipper out of the line up during his injuries this year, we would still be in wild card contention or even leading at this point if the bullpen had preserved 6 of the games that John Smoltz left with the lead. Not to mention that even with Tim Hudson’s shaky year, he’s left with the lead at least twice that the bullpen eventually gave up.

We need a left fielder that can hit for power and can complement AJ in the outfield.

By Bertalu

August 28, 2006 06:54 PM | Link to this

I am a Braves fan. No, I don’t like not winning. However, I missed only 10 home games last year and this year. Can you say the same? I also stay till the game is over. I really can’t call someone who shows up by the end of the 4th and leaves after the 7th inning a FAN. The team is a team. OUR TEAM. Some of the comments I’ve read don’t sound like fans, they sound like people who just want to whine. Whine if we win. (It’s so boring to win the division for 14 years, and only one WS pennant, but we did win league championships and WENT to the WS) or whine if we don’t. (Get rid of Bobby, get rid of JS - they are the reason we’re not winning. Get rid of Chipper, Andrew, Marcus, etc). 7 pitchers on the DL. John Smoltz is our only consistent starter. So he has one bad game and he’s just a big whup? Excuse me, but if throwing 100 pitches every 5 days is a big whup, why aren’t you doing it? You probably can’t fit in the seat at the ball park, much less throw a ball 95 mph. John works out HARD every day. I’ve noticed he’s added a nasty curve ball to his repartee of pitches. I’ve been angry at the bullpen, too; however, do you think they are trying to be inconsistent? It sounds like it. Or maybe you think it is cute to call the youngsters minor leaguers. And, what is wrong with Wickman? He has saved every chance he had.
Anyway, I think some of you spend all your time on blogging - certainly not spelling.

By Ed

August 28, 2006 07:08 PM | Link to this

I don’t John Schuerholz is to blame on this one. His hands are tied and there is nothing he can do. The ownership has been cutting payroll these last few years. How much are they going to be able to spend next year? Sure they need help in the pen, but picking up the option probably will cut into that. With the Braves probably not going to make the playoffs this year, the payroll is probably going to drop.

“seems I recall Smoltz being the only one of the big 3 (Glavine and Maddox the others) that said “I’ll take less to stay in Atlanta”

that’s a crock. Both Maddux and Glavine gave a discount to stay with the Braves when their contracts were up.

By Colleen

August 28, 2006 07:35 PM | Link to this

The “Homie Upstairs” has destroyed this organization. It is time HE took the proverbial hike. He can’t do it anymore, and needs to be replaced. If he lets Smoltzie goes, it will be apparent he doesn’t give a frogs fat arse what happens to the Braves. What a jerk homie is!

By 2 homo boys

August 28, 2006 07:50 PM | Link to this

JS Is nothing but an arrogant SOB, It is time for Frank Wren to take over.All JS knows is to BS fans with his lies,he always says we offered him a contract but he didn’t accept it,he always tries and makes himself look good,he lied about JD Drew when He claimed he offered him a contract,he lied about Furcal,he lied about Maddux and yes he is gonna BS the fans with Smoltz,Smolts will end up going to another team and JS will come along and start his BS and say we tried hard to sign Smoltz but it just didn’t work out.JS is nothing but hot air.all he does is fart around,He also needs to get busy now and not only pick up Smoltz option, he also needs to sign Wickman to a contract and not a one year,he needs to give Wickman a two year with an option year,also needs to Resign Baez as the setup man.but all JS wants to do is shoot his mouth off and not do anything to improve the team,and oh yes he will sign more rejects for next years bullpen.watch and see.remember history repeats itself and that is the kind of history JS has.Time for Frank Wren.

By JULIAN A. CASH

August 28, 2006 07:51 PM | Link to this

I think John is still smarting from not signing the Yankees’ offer. I also think the Braves’ are still smarting from making the Dan Kolb deal which was done to allow Smoltz to return to the rotation. It’s too bad Maddux got traded to the Dodgers. If he was still with the Cubs, Jeff could complete his trifecta and interview him when he came back in September. It’s just as well though, because Jeff wouldn’t get anything out of Maddux. Hey Jeff, why don’t you get Wilson’s telephone number? I’m sure he wants to take his shot at the Braves!

By Ron Roberts

August 28, 2006 08:02 PM | Link to this

I dunno about you guys….

… but is this postseason (and next season, too) gonna be FUN or what?

When the Mutts choke in the playoffs and fall short (with their 1.5 starters out of 5 in the rotation) I’m gonna enjoy myself to no end. Hell, they couldn’t win a series against the Phillies to save their lives, here, lately. At least Atlanta’s done that, recently.

Put ‘em in a series against a team that can pitch (like San Diego, Los Angeles) and watch ‘em wilt.

Let ‘em get as far as the WS, and watch ‘em choke on the big stage against strong-armed teams like Minnesota, Chicago, Detroit, da Yanks… hell, they’re all so vastly superior to the Mutts that it’ll be a laugher.

And ya know what? Those obnoxious Mutt-fans won’t be around on the boards to read our come-uppance when it happens… and it will happen, friends…

By Samuel Gore

August 28, 2006 08:03 PM | Link to this

Smoltz’s remarks about Scheurholz seem a bit harsh. He must realize that Mr. Scheurholz had a book to write and promote and did a real good job doing just that. So what if he might have missed a few particulars here and there, the man was busy taking care of his writing career. When retirement is on the horizon a man must take care not to be going into retirement financially unprepared.

So give the man a break! He had Sosa at the ready and Reitsma in the bullpen to keep it all on track, so he didn’t pay a lot of attention to just how the team was suppose win if they didn’t perform as was the plan. The book was distracting.

Mr. Scheurholz just hasn’t found a discard from another team that would fit with his plans, and too, the disable list is still pretty full. No need getting another pitcher on the team when he might be lost among all those who are trying to recover from arm troubles from this past season. He might be keeping Smoltz, but who knows what the future holds? Scheurholz might just find that he is compelled to write another book.

By jimmy

August 28, 2006 08:04 PM | Link to this

HEY MATCHES…. We can all rip on the Hudson deal now, with the benefit of hindsight. Every single one of us would have made the exact same move back in early 2005. JS isn’t operating with a crystal ball. well the thing about it is that we don’t get paid to make the deals and schuerholz does so it doesn’t matter what we would have done and he gets paid to make deals that look good three years after he made the deal and not deals that look good only based on potential. too bad that he hasn’t made enough deals that fall into the former category.

By Ouch

August 28, 2006 08:10 PM | Link to this

Ron, that’s funny, considering the Mets won a series against the Phillies today and took the season series 11-8. They’ve also won 9 of the last 10 with their 1.5 starters. Atlanta wishes they had a starter other than Smoltz that’s as good as John Maine.

I also consider the other fantastic predictions you Braves fans have made all year on these boards:

“The Mets will choke, just like they always do.”

“The Braves will win the division.” (Of course that was before we swept you…then it became…)

“The Braves will win the wild card.” (And now it’s…)

“The Braves will win three games in a row before October.”

And if the Mets don’t win the series? No big deal, because we still have one more WS victory than Atlanta’s stunning ONE in 14 years. We’ll be around for a few years this time. Wish your team could say the same.

Frenchy for MVP!

By dhd

August 28, 2006 08:18 PM | Link to this

Ouch….

Win your division for 14 years in a row and come back to tell us how you tied the record.

Doesn’t NY have a paper?

By Ouch

August 28, 2006 08:22 PM | Link to this

Win two world series and we’ll talk. Oh, I guess they don’t have almanacs in Atlanta.

By the way, Ron, Philly leads Atlanta in the season series 7-4. Time to get busy. Wild card here we come!!!

By Ouch

August 28, 2006 08:24 PM | Link to this

At least the Braves lead the league in goofy nicknames: Smoltzie, Chipper, Huddie, Sally, Stenchy, Roachy and Giles of Langerhans.

By Ouch

August 28, 2006 08:27 PM | Link to this

So is winning the division 14 times like saying you’re always registered to vote, but you’ve only done it once?

By Ouch

August 28, 2006 08:44 PM | Link to this

You guys were a lot more fun before you were 19 games back. See you in October! Oh, that’s right…I won’t. Have a great winter!

By Chris

August 28, 2006 08:48 PM | Link to this

John Smoltz belongs in Atlanta! He’s the heart of this team. Too bad we have a bad bullpen,cause he would be the chit! GO BRAVES!

By Chris

August 28, 2006 08:52 PM | Link to this

John Smoltz belongs in Atlanta! He’s the heart of this team. Too bad we have a bad bullpen,cause he would be the chit! GO BRAVES!

By T-Ray

August 28, 2006 10:00 PM | Link to this

Has anyone forgot how baseball was like in the 1970’s in this city? I do! Although there were few fans then; at least most were loyal to the Braves and the game. Too bad success and mucho $$$$$ has gotten everyone chasing the Money Train.

However, Smoltz has worked hard recovering from surgery and rehab. He has a great arm and still amazes me watching him pitch. Pay him his $$$$$ and pick up a couple of decent mid inning pitchers.

Otherwise , it is time to make changes everywhere, beginning with management!

trp

By Johnny

August 28, 2006 10:11 PM | Link to this

Smoltz - The Atlanta Fans Support you no matter how hard headed the GM may be. Jeff Schultz said it best…Smoltz record is much better than Schuerholz. What an intellegent move, upset your number one pitcher. What has Smoltz given to Atlanta and this Team…its not like he’s washed up. God knows he’d be tossed out like Maddux and Glavine if he stumbles a little…and look at them. What a smart GM. Schuerholz doesn’t have the guts to look over any comments from the customer…the fan is important…JUST TALK.

By Johnny

August 28, 2006 10:25 PM | Link to this

Response to the comments on cut payroll by the Owners…Yeah, that sucks and you know they get the money needed from Braves Revenue to compete at the top payroll…but, if they were tight on the payroll…then you’d think it would have been spent on the team…not leaving 9 million on the table as un-used most of the year. Another fabulous GM move!! Homie gotta go…any more damages, thank god the youngsters are hanging in there. GM couldn’t trade them YET, but will…

By bh1959

August 28, 2006 10:27 PM | Link to this

At the beginning of spring training 2005, Tim Hudson spoke out and said he hoped to get a multi-year deal done within 30 days. JS quietly signed him to what he wanted. And I thought “that’s not how we do things here.” Well, after that signing, Tim promptly cemented his future, and flushed away any hopes of the Braves taking the big step. Now they are stuck with his big contract, and Smoltz can only wonder why the team let the new pitcher strong-arm them into signing him, even though he had not proved that he could succeed in the NL. Still hasn’t. BUST.

By Phil

August 28, 2006 10:46 PM | Link to this

OK, this is amazing, the number of comments on this one story, or non-story about our two King Johns. (1) Smoltz is the leader of this team, statistically and in the locker room. More so than Chipper, more so than Cox and more than any other player has been since Henry Aaron. (2) Schuerholz is the best GM in baseball, the best GM the Braves have ever had and has made moves that have kept the Braves competitive in a franchise record number of consecutive years. Even with the lousy ownership.

This deal will be done irrespective of personality differences.

What you, me, Smoltz, Schuerholz, the AJC and all of baseball should be concerned about is Liberty Media. This conglomerate cares less about baseball than Time Warner and will send the Braves into “write-off” heaven. If and when that happens, it won’t matter who is pitching.

By Mystic Man

August 28, 2006 11:14 PM | Link to this

Phil, you are right on. TONE-TONE…please tone it down and stop screaming in all caps! My ears are hurting. Just because you use biznez logic doesn’t mean you understand baseball. Quit trying to apply business 101 to professional sports…it’s about winning, and winning with heart. There is enough business upstairs with homeboy JS, Time Warner and Liberty.

John Smoltz is the physical, spiritual and competitive heart of the team. Period. JS has a job…and he obviously does not feel part of the job is communicating with our key players about the current situation.

My crystal ball sez…if you trade Smoltz, keep JS, sell to Liberty Media…we’ll get’em next decade (or maybe by 2020. Or the decade after that.

To someone who loves baseball, the Braves and has many millions…please step up and buy the team. Keep Smoltz as long as you can and the fans will stay. Bernie…write the check then sell Turner South. Ted…where are you?

By Lawdog

August 29, 2006 12:25 AM | Link to this

John Smoltz is my favorite Brave. But there are two main architects to the Braves’ 14-year run as division champs: one is Bobby Cox, the other is John Schuerholz.

Admittedly, if he could pluck Bob Wickman near the deadline, why didn’t he do it 2 or 3 months earlier? We’d likely be in control of the wild card by now.

Schuerholz’ critics have never traded for a Sid Bream, Terry Pendleton, J.D. Drew, while protecting Jeff Francoeur, Brian McCann and so many others. I believe he’s our best chance of competing for another title next year. - Lawdog

By Dr. Steve Frierman

August 29, 2006 01:25 AM | Link to this

Unless the Braves are thinking about rebuilding, their priority should be in signing John Smoltz since he is the class of the organization and more importantly the Braves, if not the National League’s best pitcher. Of course, if the Braves are no longer interested in Smoltz, I know a rival team who would love to have him and pay considerably more than the $8 million option the Braves have.

Hey Mr. Smoltz, if the Braves don’t want you, the Mets will gladly take you in open arms. If you don’t believe me, ask Tom Glavine.