Sports Columnists

By rupert

July 30, 2007 6:16 PM | Link to this

WE GOT HIM!!

By Lithoman

July 30, 2007 6:25 PM | Link to this

I sure hope Mahay comes in and does what Gonzalez was doing before he got hurt. I like Tex and i hope this works out

By Beth in P'Cola

July 30, 2007 6:32 PM | Link to this

Awesome!!!

By Ballbuster

July 30, 2007 6:35 PM | Link to this

Two hole filled, one to go. I hear Bronson Arroyo is available.

By ugapip

July 30, 2007 6:36 PM | Link to this

Tex, 4th or 5th?

I say 4th, behind Chipper!

Now if Andruw will hit and we can trade Thorman or someone else for a starting pitcher, this team can be special.

By Herschel Talker

July 30, 2007 6:38 PM | Link to this

You nailed it Jeff! Mazel tov!

By Hanleymj

July 30, 2007 6:38 PM | Link to this

Looks good to me. May just have bolstered our bullpen with Dotel…Does this mean Villereal starting? Wonder if the rumor about Bronson Arroyo (mlbtraderumors.com) is of any significance..

By Heather

July 30, 2007 6:39 PM | Link to this

Well said! Go Braves!

By Kevin C

July 30, 2007 6:40 PM | Link to this

Great trade, I know people will complain but Tex is an all star and who knows what Liberty will do next year or the year after. Now with word coming out that Dotel was acquired for Davies, who never was pitching for Cox after the Reds game, the bullpen is now a strength. A lot of moves are coming in the next few days with Thorman and Woodward being either trdaed or in Woodwards case released. Word now is that the Braves are looking for starting pitching—Arroyo/ Silva. etc.

By ugapip

July 30, 2007 6:40 PM | Link to this

Tex, 4th or 5th?

I say 4th, behind Chipper!

Now if Andruw will hit and we can trade Thorman or someone else for a starting pitcher, this team can be special.

By kris from st. paul

July 30, 2007 6:44 PM | Link to this

…or they could have just resigned laroche and allowed him to develop (yeah, he stinks with the pirates but they are the pirates.) Last time i looked Teixeria can’t pitch. With Boras as agent i doubt he sticks past 2008 anyway.

By JohnGTFan

July 30, 2007 6:45 PM | Link to this

As has already been posted on the DOB’s blog…this was an excellent trade for both teams. I’m already excited about getting Tex and a lefty reliever…but now hearing that Seattle or ATL will be the destination for Dotel by tomorrow. That would be a perfect, almost dream come true, trade deadline situation. To get Texiera, Mahay, and Dotel. YIKES!

By dannycardwell

July 30, 2007 6:45 PM | Link to this

as bad as i hate to lose the kids, this is the best trade we have had in 10 years. the lefty could be the part to put us over the hump. now all we need is one more starter or jo jo to settle down. if smoltze can make it through we can go deep in the playoffs with this trade. now move andrew down to the 6-7 spot and lett a run producer take over. one that gets hits with runners on base. this is great.

By monty

July 30, 2007 6:47 PM | Link to this

I’m glad we got him. BUT! We had a big bat in our line-up last season in Adam Laroche. He was I believe 3rd in the league in homeruns and rbi’s in the second half of the season last year. But we couldn’t make the wildcard. Maybe more teams are mediocre this year and he may be what we need to get us over the hump. Still think we need a decent starter. Go BRAVES!

By don

July 30, 2007 6:47 PM | Link to this

You are quite correct. The Braves are sacrificing the future for today. The only problem is that they won’t win today either.

By Jmart

July 30, 2007 6:47 PM | Link to this

I believe that JS and BC have decided that the time is now to make a run at the World Series. Chipper,Smoltz and Andruw deserve it. Adding Tex and probably Dotel along with Mayhay gives us a great shot. Also Cormier has given up 3 earned runs in his last 29 innings at Richmond. One of those starts was for 9 innings, Cormier has to be close to coming back and solidifying our 4 spot in the rotation. The questions that remain are 1) can this group of players play up to their potential and 2) can Smoltz, Chipper and Dotel stay healthy. If these two things can happen this Fall might be magical.

By JohnGTFan

July 30, 2007 6:49 PM | Link to this

And I think TEX will stay in ATL. It may cost a lot, but he’ll stay. He even said when the rumors started last week that he would be open to an extenstion with ATL if they traded for him. Well, JS did his part! Besides, he’s a GT guy and loved ATL when he was here.

By Greg the Hammer

July 30, 2007 6:52 PM | Link to this

Great job..I think the Braves just won the division. What a killer line-up. Good column..

By brave in LA

July 30, 2007 6:52 PM | Link to this

Great trade. JS should be applauded for this major major acquisition. Bring on the Fall!

By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)

July 30, 2007 6:53 PM | Link to this

WE all knew this day was coming with McCann signed to a long term contract. I would have preferred to trade Salty for more pitching but what the hell , we all know the Braves are a major league farm team. The offense has been doing just fine , thank you. Teixeira will just make it dominant. The only problem is , unless the Braves go get Dotel , I still think that we don’t have enough pitching. Jo Jo Reyes is a rookie and sooner or later Buddy Carlyle will start looking like the journeyman pitcher he really is. Ron Mahay isn’t nearly enough to fix the bullpen. Schuerholz better have something else done before 4 p.m. tomorrow because this trade isn’t enough to put the Braves over the top. Unless the Braves win the World Series in 2007 or 2008 this trade will be a massive bust.

By Marc

July 30, 2007 6:53 PM | Link to this

Always a risk when you trade prospects, but I for one am glad we have a GM with the courage to do it now and then for the sake of keeping high expectations.

I just hope Tex finds his power again this year, I know he’s cooled off in that department since his injury.

I hope we can get another arm, I’m not sure how realistic that is with us trading away our main prospects, but if we do get one that’d be lovely.

By BigOrangeBrave

July 30, 2007 6:54 PM | Link to this

I mean, if DOB’s prediction that Liberty Media will boost payroll $10-15 million, we don’t re-sign Andruw and we remove the $14 million albatross that is Mike Hampton next year, who’s to say the Braves won’t re-sign Big Tex to be the franchise along with McCann and Frenchy??

By JohnGTFan

July 30, 2007 6:55 PM | Link to this

I see our trade for Tex got the attention of the Muts rather quickly…they are about to complete a trade for 2B Luis Castillo. That’s a lot of speed and .300+ avg at the top of their lineup. Of course, with all their injuries and pitching problems…I don’t think he is enough to put them over the top in the East. I believe, even though currently 4.5 games out, ATL has to be the favorite in the division. Of course, I am biased! :-)

By vwburt

July 30, 2007 7:00 PM | Link to this

being an old retired car dealer, we were always taught to get more than you give up. we never was taught to trade the whole car lot for one car. the time this was done was when the saints traded their whols draft away for ricky williams. BAD TRADE.

By Eric from San Jose

July 30, 2007 7:00 PM | Link to this

This was a high cost deal, but it could be the one that makes all the difference.

We still need another bullpen 8th inning guy, and we need another starter.

Matt Morris or Bronson Arroyo would be a great fit. The Reds usually have a high asking price, so stay tuned.

They need to think short this year.

However, if Andruw does not re-sign then re-signing Texiera is the ONLY this deal makes sense.

This should open the possibility of trading Thorman and a combo of youngsters for the extra needs.

By don

July 30, 2007 7:07 PM | Link to this

Unlike the Braves, the Mets made a smart trade today. It is further proof that there will be no post season baseball in Atlanta other than for those watching the Mets on television.

The truth is Bob and John are just trying to pad their resumes. Of course, they only made the Dean’s List once- 1995.

By D-Cider

July 30, 2007 7:10 PM | Link to this

Yes, it is a good trade, but how many world series titles did the Braves win with Sheff, Drew and other players who came in for a year or two? Of course, it does give the Braves an excellent chance to win another Division Title, which is good enough for a lot of fans. The LaRoche trade was a disaster. Hoping Thorman was going to do the job at 1b was like buying lottery tickets to get out of debt. Gonzalez has a history of arm troubles and he is back on the DL this year. I am just hoping the Braves can let A. Jones walk and sign Tex to a long term deal. btw, Schultz, you are still a jerk.

By JohnGTFan

July 30, 2007 7:14 PM | Link to this

don

You know your team is really bad when you have to jump onto rival’s blogs to post ignorant stuff. Getting Castillo has done NOTHING to fix your glaring problems!!! Yes, plural, problemS. Your pitching is “suspect” at best, not to mention old and beat up, injuries left and right, and no consistency outside of Reyes. Where was the smart trade? Moron.

By Colin

July 30, 2007 7:14 PM | Link to this

Is the Dotel trade official or no? If so i our bullpen goes back to being the best in the NL like when we had Gonzo, picture next year with gonzo, dotel if signed, soriano, wickman,yates,moylan.The Tex trade is amazing because we got someone who is proven and the prospects are just that prospects people only judge them they may fall on there face and if so we made out amazing.We will have plenty of money when Druw walks so we will be able to resign TEX.

By BosnianBaller

July 30, 2007 7:16 PM | Link to this

ESPN and Roto wire are saying the braves are close to trading K.Davies for Dotel straight up. Lets hope and pray this is true because dotel is a stud.

By drixie

July 30, 2007 7:18 PM | Link to this

Very good trade. May work out well for both teams, but as a Braves fan it immediately helps us. I’m not concerned about keeping Andruw next year - if he wants more than 8 million per from the Braves (and I’m sure he and Scotty boy will) then let him go. Andruw is a great fielder and a major disappoinment at the plate - way too many holes and an “all or nothing” approach to hitting. Sign Tex to a long term deal after 2008. GO BRAVES!

By Vonshawn

July 30, 2007 7:18 PM | Link to this

This could be the year!!

By Michael Procton

July 30, 2007 7:25 PM | Link to this

Rupert, do you remember the last guy we trumpeted that headline about? Oh, yeah, Saddam. THAT’S worked out well.

By SAL

July 30, 2007 7:29 PM | Link to this

Mark Teixeira had “big” numbers in Texas. Everybody hits for power in that park. So taking those inflated numbers does not insure Braves squat, except for about $21 million between now and next fall when Boras takes him to free agency.

Braves are a mediocre team period. Teixeira will not fix that. Salty with 2 or 3 months at 1B probably gives Braves as much offense starting next year at a fraction of the cost and for long term.

Braves just rented another 14 month player (it is 2 months longer than J. D. Drew) at the expense of some really good years beyond 2008.

To think that Braves were within 3 months of shedding Andruw’s salary and having opportunity to upgrade a couple of positions in 2008.

Oh well, Chipper at least got what he wanted. Personally, I would rather be looking at a team with no Jones on the roster next year and $30+ million to upgrade talent.

Here is to hoping it works out…….

By Colin

July 30, 2007 7:31 PM | Link to this

I hope this is the year Vonshawn, if all the people play there roles they should do amazing things.

By Palamas

July 30, 2007 7:33 PM | Link to this

The truth is Bob and John are just trying to pad their resumes. Of course, they only made the Dean’s List once- 1995.

So, Don: how many times have the Mutts made it to the Dean’s List in the last 20 years, hmmm? How many times have they even gotten to the World Series? Just that once, right? How many division titles do they have in those 20 years? Two?

I love it when losers get arrogant, don’t you?

By JohnGTFan

July 30, 2007 7:34 PM | Link to this

Hope all you doubters don’t change your screen name when ATL wins the East! I know at least half of you will talking about what a great trade this was. Fair-weathered fans…can’t please them no matter what you do.

By Palamas

July 30, 2007 7:34 PM | Link to this

The truth is Bob and John are just trying to pad their resumes. Of course, they only made the Dean’s List once- 1995.

So, Don: how many times have the Mutts made it to the Dean’s List in the last 20 years, hmmm? How many times have they even gotten to the World Series? Just that once, right? How many division titles do they have in those 20 years? Two?

I love it when losers get arrogant, don’t you?

By stew

July 30, 2007 7:35 PM | Link to this

Why can’t we keep Druw and Tex? What happened to CJ Wilson? Why did we get Ron Mahay? I thought Elvis was supposed to stay in the building.

By Najeh Davenpoop

July 30, 2007 7:39 PM | Link to this

Jeff Schultz misses the point when he says that teams should always trade tomorrow for today. Ideally, a trade benefits you in the short term AND the long term. This trade is definitely a great deal in the short term, but the million dollar question (literally) is whether or not the Braves can afford to sign Tex to a long term contract. If the Braves are able to hang onto Tex beyond 2008, this is an excellent deal. If not, Tex just became the next JD Drew, a short-term rental who will be gone too soon and who cost too much in return. The last thing I want to see is Tex in pinstripes in 2009 while Harrison and Salty are lighting it up in Arlington. Hopefully, the Braves can find a way to extend him for a long time.

I still would have rather seen the Braves get a top of the line starting pitcher rather than a first baseman, since starting pitching is a much bigger problem area for this team than offense. But there’s no question that the Braves picked up a great player. For now, anyway, this is a great deal.

By Colin

July 30, 2007 7:42 PM | Link to this

Dotel would really take the pressure off of Soriano and Wickman because he could pitch the 8th the 9th the 7th, whatever is asked of him because he has done everything in his career, closed, setup, middle relief.

By Ray

July 30, 2007 7:46 PM | Link to this

I agree. This is the right move at the right time for the Braves. Now if we can just get some consistent pitching to really increase the odd of winning a title.

By Colin

July 30, 2007 7:53 PM | Link to this

Does anyone disagree with them going after Arroyo and him coming to Atl or would you rather get someone else?

By Lou Vales

July 30, 2007 7:57 PM | Link to this

The city of Atlanta has ONE!!!!!! World Championship in the history of its FOUR!!!! pro franchises. I can’t stand the New York Mets, and would love them to choke this away, BUT in the longgggggggg storied history of choking—There has been one team that has made it an art form. As I have said so many times, there is a team in the Braves’ division that has no stadium, no fans, no money and that woebegone team has won more World Championships——-silly division banners don’t really matter, ask Steve Spurrier how winning SEC Championships without being able to win national titles got really boring and disheartening——- in the last 10 years than the Braves have won since Willie Stargell hit that extra inning bomb on Opening Day, 1966.

The Braves are what they are!!!

By Marc

July 30, 2007 7:58 PM | Link to this

Tex goes FA the same year Hampton leaves, I doubt we’ll have Wickman’s salary after the 08’ season either, or Andruw’s. The real question in the future is who do we want to re-sign after 08, Tex or Frenchy - cause that’s what it will come down to once our other “keepers” get their raises.

By Marc

July 30, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this

And just to throw this in there, Elvis was struggling offensivly and some scouts are seriously concerned about him ever becoming a big league hitter, Salty is a career mid .200 hitter I think in the minors, so he could end up a flop still, and the pitcheres are meaningless as we alreay have 6-7 guys being prepped for starters over the next couple of years.

By JohnGTFan

July 30, 2007 8:02 PM | Link to this

Colin

Me personally, I would like to get Silva. But I would have no problem with Arroyo either. I mean, even if he only gives us an average of 6 solid innings, which I think Arroyo could do, that would be nice. But I wonder what we would have to give up???

By Stuck in Kentucky

July 30, 2007 8:03 PM | Link to this

I know Andrew is a 10 year guy, but why not try to trade him now. JS should give Boras a number that he will not go over and see if Andrew will agree to a trade. At least we would get something in return. He would be taking one for the team.

By Taco Perez

July 30, 2007 8:05 PM | Link to this

Well…JS finally did it. I must admit I disagree on the surface. We have to wait for the next deal that gets us a starting pitcher. Only THEN can we judge this thing. Either way, I’ve been a Braves fan for life since ‘72 and I’ll pull for ‘em.

By Barry

July 30, 2007 8:07 PM | Link to this

Hey Yall:

The Braves are not going to win anything as long as they keep those “bear belly closers” they claim to depend. thes closers can barely stretch thier arms across. Their pitches float across the plate with no “ZIP”. That is why Bob whitman can’s even get one man out after pitching 40 pitches. Instead batters are banging him and teams are scoring runs with him blowing games. Those fat closers, especially Bob Whitman, needs to go on a diet. The Braves Physical Trainers nedd to get to work and hel these fat closers stay in shap, Keeping their weight to a minimum. Right now, they look awful throwing the ball. They are sluggard and slow. And more awful than that they are losing games for the Braves.

Booy Cox, you better fix this problem with your fat, out of shape closers. Thsy will be the end of the Braves now and in the playoff.

SSHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!! This a Secret for a “Brave Fan”. TELL EVERYBODY.

Ringold

By Colin

July 30, 2007 8:12 PM | Link to this

JohnGTFan

I totally agree because i hear the Reds are asking for the Moon, so I think a decent 5 would suit us fine because Buddy has been doing a fine job and Cormier is always a option.

By don

July 30, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this

Well, Palamas, I think we are discussing this year since all you guys seem to think that today’s move will reap miracles.

The past doesn’t count. And, apparently from the Braves’s standpoint, the future doesn’t count either.

So, my friend, we are stuck with this year. And the truth is the Braves won’t win this year. Surely, you know better.

Fools rush in…

By JohnGTFan

July 30, 2007 8:14 PM | Link to this

Hey, does anyone know who this “Bob Whitman” is that Barry is referring to? I’ve never heard of him!

By Rudy

July 30, 2007 8:22 PM | Link to this

Any hope of getting Arroyo? A needed fourth in the rotation? Relatively young and bound to improve with time- we could only hope. By the way, what are your overall thoughts on MacDowell’s (sp?) handling of the younger pitchers? He hasn’t had much to work with in the last two seasons. I don’t know if any pitching coach (even Leo M.) could have glued this Humpty Dumpty group back together again.

By Marc

July 30, 2007 8:23 PM | Link to this

The Mets got Castillo, they needed another bat than the Braves did though, and better defense too. In reality the Mets just made themselves whole again, whereas the Braves did that with Tex and added a bit of bite with Mohay.

The neat thing about the over-confident Mets fans is they still don’t seem to realize how injury prone their team really is (Beltran on the DL again most likely) and how dominating our bullpen will be both this year and next if we get another decent arm back there.

Face it Mets, you can’t buy championships.

By BosnianBaller

July 30, 2007 8:31 PM | Link to this

according to peter gammons The dotel trade happens when the tex trade is offical

By Alan

July 30, 2007 8:40 PM | Link to this

Great column, Jeff, and great trade for the Braves. They had to do this - and make a serious run at the postseason. They’ve been playing below .500 since the All-Star game, and the main reason is missed opportunities to score in the late innings. Andruw has been a huge disappointment (what an understatement), especially with runners in scoring position. I just hope Tex is put in the cleanup spot, where he belongs. This deal reminds me so much of 1993, when the Braves stole Fred McGriff from the Padres for 3 “prospects” - none of whom panned out. And the Braves went on a tear as soon as Crime Dog arrived and won the western division title on the last day of the season. I love Salty - he may become a superstar. And some or all of the others may do well, too. But “may” is the operative word. Tex already is there. And Mahay is no slouch, either, and will help in the bullpen. Terrific trade!

By don

July 30, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this

Has it occurred to you Dotel lovers that he will be a free agent after this season?

His will only be a two month tenancy.

By Serge

July 30, 2007 8:49 PM | Link to this

Wonder what the Braves would have been like had they traded Chipper,Javy,Kyesko,Furcal,Giles,Millwood, or McCann. Would have given us a better today too.

By Choppinmama

July 30, 2007 9:09 PM | Link to this

For all of you who are fretting that we have traded away too deep into our prospect pool, you need to read Scouts Honor by Bill Shanks. It’s an excellent journey through the Braves scouting system and their philosophy on drafting young players.

We have an excellent network of scouts that manage to find unrefined gems, draft them and train them the “Braves way.” The pipeline is always full and we will have many more young men take the places of Elvis, Salty and Matt in the minors.

Teixiera and Dotel are well-fitting pieces in the unfinished puzzle that was our team until today. Can’t wait for tomorrow’s game - the start of our ascendency over and above those Mutts.

Sorry Glav, I don’t boo, but your move to the Mets is like a kernel of popcorn that I can’t get out from between my teeth. Pretty annoying - but good luck tomorrow on going for 300!!

By El Caganer

July 30, 2007 9:09 PM | Link to this

This deal reminds me of the MgGriff deal. Just like McGriff solidified the batting order by being put between Gant and Justice, Texiera will do the same between Chpper and Andruw. Sure another starter would be awesome but the Braves starters named Smoltz and Hudson have been doing better while except for last night, the Braves offense has had trouble scorring more than 2 runs. As a bonus they have added that lefty in the bullpen they really needed.

I feel this is the kickstart the Braves needed just like back with McGriff when the Baves were fading behind the Giants. I also take back my criticisms of Liberty Media since they are willing to approve moves to make the team true contenders unlike Time Warner.

By Colin

July 30, 2007 9:13 PM | Link to this

Dotel To Atlanta Deal Not Complete?

UPDATE: Word via the Kansas City Star is that the Royals will get Kyle Davies in the deal. The Teixeira trade needs to be finalized first though. Nice job by Dayton Moore. Apparently he preferred Davies over Wladimir Balentien.

UPDATE 2: Based on this MLB.com report and reports from Sports Radio 810, the deal is not complete and Davies for Dotel was simply an offer. Dotel was apparently seen shagging flies in batting practice today.

Interesting development via Ken Rosenthal: the Braves are close to a deal for Royals’ closer Octavio Dotel. They apparently have made a better offer than finalists Cleveland and Los Angeles.

By submariner

July 30, 2007 9:16 PM | Link to this

It’s about time! Maybe with Liberty at the helm, the Braves can make a push. Rumor has it that they’re in the hunt for Dotel and Arroyo. They need a starter, preferably a good lefty, but Dotel will help tighten up the bullpen.

By Fred

July 30, 2007 9:23 PM | Link to this

I totally agree with Don - obviously a man wise beyond his years. These one or two year rentals will make us the Pirates in ‘09. Are you people listening !!! The agent Boras will run players away from the tight fisted Braves faster than Micheal Jackson on a cubscout.

By Rich W

July 30, 2007 9:30 PM | Link to this

Jeff, in looking for pitching, I see that Lance Cormier has had five straight great starts for Richmond, including a complete game. Is he able to help out now, as we had hoped he would after a great Spring Training?

By enick755

July 30, 2007 9:35 PM | Link to this

please “BARRY” (8:07PM) It’s Wickman, NOT Whitman! Also, to the guy who referred to Smoltz, it’s NOT Smoltze! What a bunch of DAs.

By renewed hope

July 30, 2007 9:35 PM | Link to this

WOW!! What a swing in fortunes. It has been painful watching good starting pitcher performance wasted by the BP, and Rally Killers AJ and Thorman up to bat the past several weeks. Now the holes seem filled, and we don’t have to watch rallys go down in flames. If only we get Dotel and an SP, JS will have pulled off one of the best trade deadlines in recent memory; no wonder he is considered one of the best GMs. WE ARE BACK IN BUSINESS, LET’S GO GET SOME METS!

By enick755

July 30, 2007 9:36 PM | Link to this

please “BARRY” (8:07PM) It’s Wickman, NOT Whitman! Also, to the guy who referred to Smoltz, it’s NOT Smoltze! What a bunch of DAs.

By DNice

July 30, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this

Escobar forced this trade. Last year this trade is not made. Escobars great play has made Andrus expendable especially since he is only 17 and we still have Lillibridge behind Escobar in addition to that trade of Pena duringt te Spring. Did anyone notice that Pena is batting respectable in KC and his defense is well almost Ozzie Smithisque.

Good trade but I would rather him bat after Andruw because Andruw still is the only power hitter on the team (look at the stats). Would you rather have Andruw stuck behind him and not bring him in or be forced to get pitched to and not dabbled because you have a SH behind him and not a lefty or righty.

By JohnGTFan

July 30, 2007 9:48 PM | Link to this

DNice

That is a GREAT point!!!! Most people are looking forward to him batting 4th so Chipper gets more fastballs. Imagine if Tex is able to get Andruw a steady diet of fastballs. That would be incredible. Problem is, pitchers know that he will swing at junk.

By Creed

July 30, 2007 10:03 PM | Link to this

The plant vs. seed analogy was very clever JS and why you write and we comment. Excellent job.

By Lost Cause

July 30, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this

Excuse me, how many national championships did Tex bring Tech while he played?

By Gene

July 30, 2007 10:23 PM | Link to this

Looks like a good trade to me. Tex could make a difference in those extra inning losses.

By Delamar

July 30, 2007 10:28 PM | Link to this

I’ve Watched Tex grow up from GT through the Rangers and daily with the Rangers since 03. You’re getting a stud and a really good guy too. I’m sorry he’s gone from the Lonestar state but when all is said and done you’re getting Joe Dimaggio (sp?) at first base in a swap for prospects. Plus a middle innings reliever that eats innings. Good luck.

By humbug

July 30, 2007 10:39 PM | Link to this

I certainly hope Tx is worth what we are giving up. I know that they are just prospects and he is an established player, but haven't we brought in high paid      experienced players before, only to see them  move on or out in a couple of years? 
A Texas writer  describes Tx as a self centered cry baby. I sure hope he is just mad that Tx is leaving.

Trade looks good on paper but we’ll how it looks on the field. I think it was a good move and that he’ll stay here several years and make Boras a lot of money. But with Chipper, Andrew, John nearing the end we must think long term rather than temporary quick fixes

By Bubba Bulldawg

July 30, 2007 10:46 PM | Link to this

ANYTHING, and I do mean ANYTHING affiliated with those NERDS over at Tech can only be a cancer! We just turned our Braves into a bunch of pansies who will now go back into their clubhouse and have a tickle pile win or lose! Absolutely devastating trade!

By Dejay

July 30, 2007 11:34 PM | Link to this

I like the trade now, I’ll love it if Tex is signed long-term. Sure the prospects they’re giving up could end up being the next big thing in the majors; they also could end up like Nieves, Komminsk, Donnie Elliott, and countless others who flashed out.

Folks who cry about trades like these are probably the same ones who were still waiting on the Hawks’ core of young guys to put it all together and make the playoffs last year. Oh wait….

Tommorrow’s maybe don’t mean a thing today unless they can help your team win. You think anyone in NYC cared about all of the young talent the Yankees gave up when they were winning world titles every year? You think there was anyone at the parade saying, ‘yeah its great that we won it all again but in 10 years, we’re gonna struggle’? Uhhh, nope.

The future is and should always be now, especially in the world of pro sports.

By DAD

July 30, 2007 11:48 PM | Link to this

Braves fans! Surely, you don’t believe that Teixeira is going to make a difference in the Braves battle with the Mets in the NL East. The Braves only have two starting pitchers,Smoltz and Hudson, that give them a chance to win. The other three get bopped around about every time they pitch. The Braves don’t have the money to sign a quality starting pitcher. Your bullpen is imploding. Wickman can not even close his own door at home. So, even with Teixeira in the lineup, the braves are going to continue crumbling and keep falling further and further behind the Mets in the NL East. Wait and see what the Mets are going to do before the trading deadline. Then, you Braves fans will realize that the Mets current 4 and 1/2 games lead over the Braves will grow to 10 games by the end of August 2007.

By DaddyDawg

July 31, 2007 12:43 AM | Link to this

The Teixeira deal certainly improves the Braves but it will mean nothing, as far as making the playoffs are concerned, if the Braves do not get another quality starting pitcher. The first priority should have been, and remains, to obtain a quality starting pitcher. I know Schuerholz has been limited by the market, where there is a dearth of starting pitching talent available at a reasonable price, but the deal for Tex will mean little this year unless we get a good starting pitcher….. the Braves will be sitting at home during the playoffs for a second consecutive season, hoping that they can keep Tex and their other high-priced POSITION players!

By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)

July 31, 2007 12:52 AM | Link to this

Kyle Davies is a head case , seven years in the Braves organization and he still can’t put two decent start’s together back to back. I would trade Davies for a box of baseballs. So , Dotel will do just fine thank you , even if it is for only two months. Of course , Zack Greinke would be much more attractive in the long run because his rights are locked up until 2010.

By TIMEOUT

July 31, 2007 1:26 AM | Link to this

Wake up kids.

This signals one thing and one thing only …

LIBERTY is in to win.

FINALLY, JS has the go-ahead to compete again. Don’t look for anybody to wave “cap” figures around. And don’t think we’ll really know just how much he has to spend.

Just recognize this signals we are back in the game and he has a freakin’ friend on high he can go to when he needs to do what REALLY needs to be done.

Mets schmetz.

Watch this ……….

By Peerless' Mama

July 31, 2007 1:50 AM | Link to this

Finally some postive posts instead of all the negativity I usually see!

I actually got to see Salty in AA this year when they came thru HuntsVegas.

Then he got called up so I was glad I went to the game. I’ve since been to 38 minor league games.

HuntsVegas is where a LOT of the Brewers have come from. I believe there are 9 up now, including the sleeper in the AL Rookie of the Year race, Ryan Braun.

When we first got a team we had Canseco, then McGwire back to back….that spoiled everyone and now it’s hard to get a crowd….

“Peerless Mama” approves the trade.

By El Caganer

July 31, 2007 2:12 AM | Link to this

They were a lot further behind the first place Giants when they acquired Fred McGriff and caught them. With Texiera solidifying the lineup and ownership letting the team know that they actually want to win (a great psychological boost for the players), four and a half games doesn’t look insurmountable at all.

The starting pitching behind Smoltz and Hudson is a question mark, but at least the bullpen is actually solid. The addition of Ron Mahay is the lefty they desperately needed. If they get Dotel also as rumored the bullpen would be phenominal, which would take a lot of pressure off the starters. All you need in the playoffs anyway is 3 starters and with Smoltz and Hudson they are 2/3 of the way there. Hopefully they can make a move for a quality #3 or one of their existing guys can step it up.

This is also a great boost for the fans. This is the first time I have been actually excited in the run up to the trade deadline in ages. I have to give props to Liberty Media for letting them make the moves. It is a refreshing change of pace from Time Warner’s thriftiness. It shows the fans that ownership wants to win also. It hasn’t been like this since Ted was owner. Now it is the fans turn to show their gratitude and start packing the seats again like in the early/mid 90’s.

As far as the loss of the prospects, the Braves farm system is full of quality prospects, they can afford losing the ones they gave up. They are not like the Yankees who raped the farm system in trying to win now to the extent they have nobody to call up if someone gets hurt.

Even if they don’t win it all, at least the new ownership is showing that they really want to win. That is all a fan can really ask for.

By Braves Fan 79 (shoulda traded vick for CJ)

July 31, 2007 2:21 AM | Link to this

I would love to see Dotel….go Braves!

By ATLUGA1

July 31, 2007 2:28 AM | Link to this

This is one of the best trade deadlines for JS if he lands Dotel and a starter. And if he can only get TEX and Mayha out of this it is still the best one since Fred in 93’. Will just TEX and Mayha put us over the hump who knows, but that’s the most exciting part about the whole thing? If we get the other 2 arms we want then we are going to play in October. I can wait to get back to the states just to watch the end of the season. GOOD LUCK BRAVES!

By Salty Dawg

July 31, 2007 3:02 AM | Link to this

This is a good trade. I would have hated it if they had traded Escobar. He is the smartest player, with the best instincts, on the team. And, he is a rookie.

If you look at previous trades of prospects, they usually never pan out for the other teams. Only one or two pitching prospects have come back to make it in the big leagues. I just have to believe that JS and the scouts have seen something in some of these players that made them think they were not trading away the future.

Also, I think the fact that JS signed McCann to a long term deal when he was not even asking for one speaks volumes about what JS thought of him vis-a-vis Salty. And, most of the “buzz” for Salty was created by the AJC sportswriters. What does that tell you? Did any of them ever scout for a living?

Finally, Texira may be signed. Peopel doubted that a deal could be made for Hudson. Then, there were doubts about Wickman signing beyond last year. If Texira wants to stay here, a deal will be worked to avoid arbitration. And, we won’t be paying $14 mil to AJ for a .200 BA. Hampton won’t be resigned. Frenchy is not a free agent. Diaz and Harris can take over full time in Left and Center. Escobar will not be eligible for free agency any time soon nor will Kelly Johnson.

Not sure about starting pitching over the years but Will Startup’s numbers in Richmond look pretty good. So, get a mix of top notch Tech, UGA players and other locals, this would a fun team to cheer for.

By JohnGTFan

July 31, 2007 3:05 AM | Link to this

DAD

That was completely ignorant!!! Do you think the pitching in NY (either NY team) is better than ATL’s, then you need to have your head examined!!! We have 2 we can count on..how many do the Mutts have, consistently????? EXACTLY!! With the exception of Reyes, your good players are either struggling horribly or going back and forth on the DL. I’m more concerned about Philly than I am the Mutts. NY will finish 3rd in the East…with that huge payroll. Everyone knows last year was a “one-time” wonder, and now it’s over.

By Coach (Hank Aaron Is The Real HR Champion)

July 31, 2007 3:38 AM | Link to this

The Mets team ERA is 3.87 , the Braves have a team ERA of 4.11……….there ya go GTFan , figure it out.

By houstonbrave

July 31, 2007 6:29 AM | Link to this

actually, the braves have 3 starters in the top 16 SP in era. no other team has 3 as high as atl. they have 3 starters in the top 27 eras in all of baseball! 3.87 to 4.11 is very close. throw out davies and cormiers #’s and lets see the team eras. the fact is that of right now atl has the best 1-3 rotation in the game. they might have the best 1-4 with carlyle being on more than off lately. maybe the mets can take the WC but unlikely! go braves!!!!

By macho

July 31, 2007 7:21 AM | Link to this

Actually, what the Braves need is a solid number 4 pitcher. Davies has toasted his brain here, and a trade would be good for him and Atlanta. I really liked Salty, but his lack of defensive skills to play first base spelled the end of him here (Julio Franco???) with Brian McCann locked up. Saltalamacchia may b a star, and soon, for the Rangers. Texiera is already a star. Like the man said, that’s why nurserys sell more plants than seeds.

By Lifer Braves Fan

July 31, 2007 7:39 AM | Link to this

Bubba Bulldawg, first of all, your comments were absolutely ridiculous. Secondly, you need to stop eating the mushrooms that grow in your yard.

By Jeff R

July 31, 2007 7:52 AM | Link to this

Sorry to say, nothing’s changed that much in baseball over the years. Teams win with pitching. 36 year old Mahay is good, but the Tex trade would have made much more sense had Gagne or Wilson been included. If the Braves acquire Dotel and Arroyo, that would better position the team for a run at the Mets than acquiring Tex, though having him in the line up with improved pitching works nicely. But the notion that a juiced up offense is going to win the division makes no sense to me. If Schuerholz brings in the pitching, then a juiced up staff may just do the trick.

By AJ GREEN WEARS #1

July 31, 2007 9:20 AM | Link to this

By SAL

July 30, 2007 7:29 PM | Link to this

Mark Teixeira had “big” numbers in Texas. Everybody hits for power in that park

Sal,

Before you post comments you might want to research:

Career HR’S Home: 84

Career HR’S Road: 69

15 Homeruns more in over 4plus seasons. Not that big a deal.

Look at these though

HR vs. LP: 41

HR vs. RP: 112

Tex’s has BIG TIME power versus Righty’s.

By Elmer

July 31, 2007 9:23 AM | Link to this

There will be not playoff spot with Reyes and Carlyle in the rotation.

By Will

July 31, 2007 9:31 AM | Link to this

Don’t yall love to hear mets fans tell us how to win. News flash.. yall are now and always will be the red headed step children of NYC. It doesn’t matter how much money Omar spends, ask anyone from the city. You are sort of like the lovable loser Cubs…minus the lovable part. Seriously, telling the Braves how to win is like Paris Hilton preaching the benefits of sobriety and abstinence .. Hmm..Some how the source of the noise and the message don’t equate. So please return to 86’.. Crank up the Bon Jovi, bail Gooden and Strawberry out of jail and finish your thank you letters to Buckner..

Amen!!

By Matt

July 31, 2007 9:36 AM | Link to this

BUBBA…Tickle pile, HILARIOUS. DON…YOU’RE AN A*! Anyone who knows will tell you that the Castilo trade REEKED of desperation. I wish there were more mets fans on here, talking crap. Its fun to hear them shake in their boots. Want to read something funny? Go to metsblog.com, so much infighting, so much denial.

By bushwacker

July 31, 2007 9:53 AM | Link to this

Letter to TOM GLAVINE,

I apologize for the moronic fans who boo you in Atlanta, they are not true baseball fans are probably the same idiots who cheered for Julio Franco when he came back to the Braves after leaving for the Mets for more money. The problem is most people don’t know what really happened about your agent not letting you know the Braves had made another offer until after you had accepted the Mets deal. Booing you is like the Yankee fans booing Mickey Mantle. You were the MVP for the only World Series this team has ever won and I for one salute you and would love for my sons to be the kind of citizen you are! THANKS Tommy!

By DawgFan

July 31, 2007 10:04 AM | Link to this

One thing to consider… Tex’s wife is from northeast Georgia, a little more than an hour from Atlanta. He may consider staying a Brave long-term.

By TampaBrave

July 31, 2007 10:15 AM | Link to this

Great trade! Perfectly put Jeff!

However, there is still a hard road ahead. It’s not impossible to overtake the Mets and Phils, but it will be challenging. The Braves must win every series and sweep a few along the way. Do that and we will be there. Out of the Braves, Phils and Mets, the Phils have the toughest road, if past performance is any indicator. Their remaining schedule includes 32 games vs teams over .500, including 9 vs the braves and 7 vs NY. The Braves have 9 games left with NY and 28 games vs over .500 teams.

A big part to winning the division will occur almost immediately where the Mets are on the road at Milwaukee and Chicago before they play Atlanta in NY. If the braves can take care of business and win these two series against Houston and Colorado, I think we could gain some ground before meeting them head to head. Make no mistake that the Mets will not fold. The news of Tex will probably serve as a wake up call to them and I expect them to play better that they have to date. My hope is the return of Pedro is a third rate sequel.

By ChampDawg

July 31, 2007 10:18 AM | Link to this

The fly in this ointment is agent Scott Boras. If Andruw really wants to stay in Atlanta (he says he does) and Tex too, then maybe the Braves can offer them enough to stay— or will they chase the money? Nothing forces players to stay or not stay unless it’s just all about the money. If Andruw stays and can get his BA turned around and if Tex stays— if we can sign them both to 3 or 5-yr deals then the Braves have a chance to be the team to beat. The pitching still bothers me though. Need another quality starter.

By don

July 31, 2007 10:30 AM | Link to this

Matt, are you always so gullible? Do you really think that the trade will get the Braves into the playoffs?

It won’t happen this year. It won’t happen next year. And, your boy, Schuerholz, has guaranteed that it won’t happen in the near future.

You read all the “yes man, suck up” columns about the Braves’s savior, Teixteira, and you actually believe it. However, it doesn’t mean squat to the Mets, Phillies, and fans who are actually familiar with Harrison and Andrus.

The Braves got swindled a