Sports Columnists

By Mikey

October 2, 2007 7:42 PM | Link to this

It isn’t right

It’s like seeing Glavine in that Mets uni and Maddux in that Pads uni, etc..etc.. Thanks for your good work, Andruw. You will be missed.

By chitown bravos

October 2, 2007 7:42 PM | Link to this

Justice never batted .220 when we were thinking about dealing him - AJ might have been the one of the reasons we did not make the playoffs this year. How long can we consider AJ a “project.” His glove is amazing and saved games, but his bat never protected anyone and hurt the braves in the last few yrs. Good Luck to AJ i wish him well, but pitching is what gets us to the postseason, we need someone to protect smoltzie

By ObiWanKobe

October 2, 2007 7:43 PM | Link to this

It isn’t over yet, we’ll see if anyone makes an offer Boras likes. I doubt it’ll happen.

By Robert

October 2, 2007 7:44 PM | Link to this

Terrence - As gifted an athlete as Andruw is, he doesnt hold a candle to David Justice when it comes to being a competitor.

By Niekro35

October 2, 2007 7:47 PM | Link to this

Good grief. Moore is always harping about David Justice. It’s worth noting that the Braves continued their incredible run for the next seven years without Justice; that trading him freed up salary to keep Maddux and Glavine — far more valuable players; and that Justice’s career did not outlast the Braves’run. Justice was a good player who played on very good teams.

Now Andruw is the next Frank Robinson? Now that’s just plain silly.

By BW

October 2, 2007 7:49 PM | Link to this

Time for Andrew to go. Sure his is 30, but how many chances does a guy get to become a superstar when he is making 15 million dollars/year? Braves could not take that chance. Can buy 2.5 starting pitchers at that salary.

By Greg

October 2, 2007 7:50 PM | Link to this

The “Designated Geniuses” are not in possession of a magic money tree. Andruw is likely going to get north of $17M a year. He’s not worth that. He might be worth it now, but his knees are going and his range is diminishing.

Trade Renteria for Felix Pie and move on.

By JMar

October 2, 2007 7:52 PM | Link to this

While he’s been good, AJ hasn’t been one of the elite outfielders in baseball in a few years. He knocks in a ton of rbi, but only because he always has people on base in front of him. But he was a liability at the plate all season, practically a guaranteed out in clutch situations. The money will be far better spent elsewhere.

By BossLady

October 2, 2007 7:53 PM | Link to this

You mean your a$$ finally had something good to say about something???

By southgadawg

October 2, 2007 7:55 PM | Link to this

Potential with the bat never materialized.

By Nelson

October 2, 2007 7:56 PM | Link to this

Dear TM: All you said is the positive side, yes! nobody can’t deny that Andrew is the best centerfield in the game, but there are many more that are more a complete player than him, and this is what this team needs, his speed is going down (no stolen bases), his arm is not so good now, his performance at the clutch is probably the worst among all centerfielders but overall his corked head is the main problem to me. Remember he openly admited to the media that he is not going to try to hit to the oposite way. But all of this happenned because of Bobby Cox lack of character as a manager, I bet you in the new team he will improve his offensive performance a lot!, that’s for sure, Bobby at the same time is recognizing his defensive abilities was also hurting his image keeping him as clean-up hitter when he was in the worst slump of his carreer. This team yes needs players, yes like david Justice, Fred mc Griff, Ron Gant, Escobar, explosive players that do not give-up like the Jones Boys.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

October 2, 2007 7:58 PM | Link to this

Um , No. AJ has lost a step or two on defense. His arm is shot , he is a dead pull hitter who has never been able to hit the breaking ball with any consistency. Boras wants a pay raise , Andruw deserves a pay cut. Andruw isn’t clutch , he was a pariah in the four hole during 2007. Schuerholz is making the correct decision both competitively and monetarily.

By DaveFromChattanooga

October 2, 2007 7:58 PM | Link to this

He is WAAAAAY overpriced!!!!! $20 million for 7 years???? Get real! Some idiot will pay this price (see the idiot Yankees) and will get almost nothing in return after about the 3rd year. This guy (I loved watching him the last 11 years) is on the downward part of his career … and in a hurry! Mark my words. He will be a washout in about 3 years. Hell, he hit .220 THIS year. He stranded RUNNER after RUNNER after RUNNER. So long Andruw. Your agent is DREAMING! You ain’t worth $5 million annually anymore pal.

By Jonny

October 2, 2007 7:59 PM | Link to this

Andy was an asset out there in CF, for sure. He makes CF a bigger position and RF/LF smaller positions by his quick reactions and crystal ball like anticipation of where the ball is going. Yet. Yet his asking price was surely too much. Scott Boras said Andy wouldn’t take a discount to keep playing for the Braves. And Andy let that be the final answer. The other Jones took a paycut for the team, took one for the team when he moved to LF, nearly took the batting title this year (and isn’t happy because the Braves didn’t make a playoff), is a consistent producer, etc. What did Andy do for the team that rises to that team mentality?

By Daniel

October 2, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this

he started his declined about 3 seasons ago. he got lazy, gained 25 pounds, never listened to terry pendelton about his batting. he never seemed to care about striking out or hitting into double plays in critical innings. I will miss the old AJ, not the over weight lazy guy the past three years. With the money we will save from not having tosign him. Braves in need of starting pitching big time.We need the $$$$ to sign Tex, now that guy is worth the money

By billy g

October 2, 2007 8:05 PM | Link to this

I know that Andruw will make it to the HOF. The problem is that he simply has not improved his discipline at the plate. The Braves can not afford to pay a player “5-tool” money when he only provides four.

I will miss Andruw in CF. And so will our pitchers, but the team has to sign Tex as well as bolster the starting rotation. Under present budgetary restraints, AJ will have to move to another team.

I wish him well.

By ace

October 2, 2007 8:07 PM | Link to this

Let’s consider ken Griffey Jr. He was the best during his early career no doubt but age and injury caught up to him. How could the braves take a chance with such a long contract with Andruw. If Andruw truly wanted to stay he would have got rid of Boras and tried to work out something. Andruw is the best centerfielder at this time, will we say the same 3 years from now?

By Chip Carey

October 2, 2007 8:11 PM | Link to this

he started his declined about 3 seasons ago. he got lazy, gained 25 pounds, never listened to terry pendelton about his batting. he never seemed to care about striking out or hitting into double plays in critical innings:

DING DING DING DING

the braves need to go sign a starting pitcher somehow and sign texiera through the 2022 season

By Kelley

October 2, 2007 8:12 PM | Link to this

It truly saddens me to see Andruw go.

BUT HERE’S THE BOTTOM LINE…the last two months of the season or so when Andruw came to bat with runners on and less than two outs, I was just happy if he didn’t hit into a double play.

Is that the kind of player you give 20 mil/year to? Does Chipper even make that kind of money? Chipper may not be as spectactular in the field but he is much more consistent at the plate.

Andruw is to blame for this. He is going to seriously regret not taking a huge paycut to stay here.
Let him go to a club like New York/Philly/Chicago, etc and go into a slump the way he does here and see how kindly he is treated by the fan base. When it happens, he will be praying he would have stayed in Atlanta. He should have talked to Renteria about his experience in Boston.

Besides, I’m quite certain he could have figured out a way to make ends meet and still feed his family on a mere 10 million per year……

As much as I hate to see him go, I hate seeing guys make absurd amounts of money for simply catching, throwing, and hitting a ball.

Yes, I love the game, but guys like Boras are slowly turning me away.

By Josh

October 2, 2007 8:15 PM | Link to this

Terence are you going to give the Braves the money that Boras wants? Because if so I’m sure they’d consider. Unfortunately we have to concentrate on something we need like….STARTING PITCHING….the offense is going to be fine….we need pitching now to contend and that will determine whether we make the playoffs, keeping Andruw and getting one scrub starter wouldn’t help us.

By bravesfan

October 2, 2007 8:15 PM | Link to this

Its not about restraints, money, or anything other the Andruws agent is Scott Boras and Andruw is just not worth what Boras wants for him. If Andruws agent was not Boras then Andruw might still be here. Facts are facts. Andruw will never get a offer because of his agent. If Andruw really wanted to play here his agent killed that for him.

Im not worried about center field anyway. They will fill the position. Im more worried about the pitching. Thats the fix that needs taken care of.

By Nelson

October 2, 2007 8:17 PM | Link to this

Today is my birthday and this is a good news!

By Rusty

October 2, 2007 8:19 PM | Link to this

When Andruw realizes he doesn’t know everything and starts listening to his batting coaches he might be worth the 20 milllion

By San

October 2, 2007 8:19 PM | Link to this

Is it time for AJ to go? Or can he remain a Brave, listen to what TP tells him, and get his swing back. He already makes a ton of $$, and his agent is nothing but a super greedy SOB. What we need is consistancy and some decent pitching. Chip did take a pay cut, but I bet there is a lot more to that deal that we don’t know about. The issue here is we have to have at least a #3 pitcher that we don’t cringe the night he starts. And relievers. Just how many games did our “relievers” lose for Hutty and Smoltz? Stay or go AJ, but do what is right and best for everybody.

By Chris

October 2, 2007 8:21 PM | Link to this

Dude couldn’t even hit when he was dropped to #7 in the order and had no pressure. Come on.

By Najeh Davenpoop

October 2, 2007 8:22 PM | Link to this

Wow, I’m surprised nobody has called Terence Moore a racist yet. “Whaaaaa, he only mentioned black players! He just wants more people his color on the Braves! What a racist liberal hippie communist baby-eating newspaper! I’m never reading this again!” I guess three steady months of calling out Michael Vick buys you some goodwill among certain people. And no, I don’t agree with this article, although I think they should wait for other offers to come in before deciding to let him go. This cash strapped team is going to have a hard enough time re-signing Teixeira and finding a #3 starter who will fit in Liberty Media’s budget without trying to keep Andruw.

I gotta admit though, it is going to be really weird seeing Andruw in a different uniform. It took me about a full season to get used to Tom Glavine the Met.

By Robert

October 2, 2007 8:25 PM | Link to this

I see AJ going to the Yanks.

By Robert

October 2, 2007 8:25 PM | Link to this

I see AJ going to the Yanks.

By Capt Caveman

October 2, 2007 8:25 PM | Link to this

terence moore is a douchebag with selective memory and an ever present racial bias.

By T.Moore Not Right

October 2, 2007 8:28 PM | Link to this

It’s been pretty evident for some time now that the urban legend that “Andruw Jones saves a run a game with his defense” is just that. Legend.

He is still a great center fielder, one of the best in the game. The fact is there are other guys that have caught Andruw as his body wears down, his weight goes up and age catches up. This season he has also been the biggest rally killer the Braves had. Rick Sutcliffe said rather bluntly on an ESPN telecast that if Andruw had come through at all he would be looking at 130 or 140 rbi rather than struggling to make 100. Even when Andruw moved down to seventh in the lineup, risp kept finding him and more times than not, he tanked.

Two years ago when he carried the Braves, I thought he had finally matured and arrived as the total player that everyone predicted he would be. The last two years when his production started dropping a bit Andruw only became more stubborn and less coachable.

He is over priced, and stubborn. Had Andruw made attempts to humble himself and do whatever it took to help this club with a bat rather than trying to do it “his way” this season, he might have swayed more fans and management into thinking that he was maybe worth a few extra bucks. I will always remember Andruw at the peak of his ineptness saying, “I’m a pull hitter,that’s all there is to it.” He didn’t say anything like, “I’m stinking right now and I need to help this club with the bat so I’m going to do whatever it takes to start getting some of those runs in. I’m going to go the other way, I’m going to try and make contact with two strikes.” He didn’t do that.

Andruw can talk all he wants to about Wickman and not being a team guy, the fact is Andruw wasn’t enough of a team guy to change his approach to hitting when he struggled (which was all season)

Kind of the pot calling the kettle black.

Cya Andruw. Don’t let the door hit you on the way out!

By Wayne in Utah

October 2, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this

TR: Give me a break man. AJ will be missed, but the finances of the situation say to let him go. If he were asking for 5 mil a year for 2-3 years, then he would be a bargain.

With his added girth, and loss of a step or two, and TOTAL unwillingness to listen to coaching, he is not even worth the 13.5 mil he made last year. Maybe 8 mil tops.

Not THAT many millions of catches in that glove. There are lots of very good CF’s out there.

You know, I knew you were going to start whining and crying when this announcement was made, and I also am not surprised that David Justice’s name came up in your article.

If I were the AJC, I would send YOU packing, like the Braves just did to AJ.

By Chip Carey

October 2, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this

Scott Boras is killing the game of baseball…

…oh and terence..you’re a racist

By KENDELL

October 2, 2007 8:30 PM | Link to this

I am p** off at the Braves. I probably won’t ever watch them or go to another game. I think they should at least talked it over throughly but they didn’t. First we let Deion go, Gant, Justice, plus Glavine and Maddux. Hell we should have kept Sheffield. Now Andruw must leave.. The Braves organization is cheap and thoughtless. Stop blaming pitching and start looking how the money is used and the pitching coach. We made the playoffs when Leo was here now that he has been gone the past two years look at our numbers. Since we dropped the the payroll look at how many games we win a year. Numbers and stats don’t lie. I think its stupid cause Andruw is only 30 and is still the best in the outfield!! I’m Hurt to see what have unfolded!! I read what Bobby Cox said yesterday that he loves Andruw but never mentioned they was gonna do whatever they can to get him back like he said of Tex!! Bobby that was disrespectful. The Braves are the reason why he hit .220 cause of the contract issue lingering over his head. They could at least gave him a one year contract. Andruw stated that THE BRAVES ARE HIS TEAM AND HE WANNA PLAY IN ONE UNIFORM UNTIL HE RETIRES. The stupid decisions the braves have made over the years I wouldn’t be surprised if they gave Bonds a 3 yr 88 million contract.Right now the Braves are not my team..

By Craig

October 2, 2007 8:33 PM | Link to this

Negotiate or not, Andruw was gone. Get some pitching, Andruw is a Yankee.

By Josh

October 2, 2007 8:39 PM | Link to this

Next he’ll say we need to sign Willie Harris to a 5 year 50 million dollar deal

By Lanier

October 2, 2007 8:39 PM | Link to this

The only shame would be to bring Andrew back at any price. Except for the one year, he has never come close to living up to his billing. He is not a winner.

By TeeTime

October 2, 2007 8:40 PM | Link to this

And another thing…do we want or need Tom Glavine back? Not only no, but HELL NO. I also don’t think you can blame this entirely on AJ. Why in the wonderful world of sports did Bobby let him continue to come to bat? Sit his butt out, bench him till he is ready to be a team player and listen to the batting experts and try to help himself and the Braves. I will miss his arm in the field, but not that dumb grin as he strikes out again.

By Bill

October 2, 2007 8:41 PM | Link to this

Blame ownership,plain and simple

By Mike

October 2, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this

He didn’t run out ground balls, claiming he was hurt. His RISP batting average was atrocious. It’s time to go and give someone else a chance. Besides, he looked at least two steps slower this year. The Braves need pitching. As usual, Moore is way off. Andruw in the same breath with Robby or Justice. Again, TM, you show how clueless you can be.

By CPL

October 2, 2007 8:43 PM | Link to this

Everyone already knows Terrance is a racist and is why it wasn’t mentioned for the 1000th time.

By NASCARfan

October 2, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this

How many RBI did Jones leave on the bases?

How many rallies and games did Jones lose at plate?

How many strikeouts did Jones have with runners in scoring position?

How many team-killing double plays has Jones hit into?

How many hitting coaches have been fired or who left the team because of Jones?

How much talent has been wasted because Jones refuses to be coached?

How many games did the Braves lose this year because Bobby the Boob put the good of ONE MAN ahead of the good of the TEAM?

The answers to questions 1-4 and 6 is too inumerable to count.

The answer to question 5 is at least 3.

The answer to the last question is just enough to lose the Braves any shot at the playoffs this year.

Here’s the main reason to get rid of Andruw Jones: Because no one has seen fit to fire Bobby Cox yet. If Andruw is still here, Bobby the Boob will still bat him 4th. And we all know how that goes. No more Andruw means Bobby the Boob can’t bat him 4th anymore. And that’s good to me.

By Najeh Davenpoop

October 2, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this

Oh yeah, and can we please stop blaming Scott Boras for doing his job well? You want to blame someone for baseball contracts becoming ridiculous, blame Bud Selig for not pushing for a salary cap. In the NFL there are maybe 5-10 players, out of a much larger player pool, who get paid $100 million over the course of their contracts. That’s not because NFL agents suck at their job, it’s because the league made a commitment to even the playing field. It’s not Steinbrenner’s fault he spends the money necessary to have a competitive team, and it’s not Boras’ fault he is able to swindle so much money out of these idiot baseball GMs for average players.

By N8

October 2, 2007 8:50 PM | Link to this

Alright Terrance, would you be saying ANY of this rubbish if Andruw wasn’t a minority?

After watching you embarrass yourself on ESPN in the Vick “town meeting”, I officially (after hitting post), will not every read anything you have to say, nor respond to any of your nonsense.

You are an idiot.

By Ron H

October 2, 2007 8:51 PM | Link to this

Andruw, YOU DID THIS TO YOURSELF!

You became a great player, and I can’t fault you for that, but you also hired SCOTT BORAS, for which I can fault you.

In a way, I feel sorry for you, because you (and Boras) took money over your baseball family…

Almost sounds like a curse.

Bye Andruw.

By Heather

October 2, 2007 8:56 PM | Link to this

Hey Terence, I hear the Braves are going to sign Brian Jordan to replace Andruw next year…

HAHAHAHAHA AHA AHAHAHAHA AHHAHHAAHAHAAA!!!!!

By meb

October 2, 2007 8:57 PM | Link to this

Pitching is whats needed for the braves. One guy in the lineup isn’t going to stop you from getting to the post-season. I think we all can agree on the fact that we need better pitching. That being said, it seems that the Braves would have gotten rid of Hamilton a long time ago to make room for better pitching instead of getting rid of a guy that prevented runs from being scored with his outstanding play in the field. Oh well, another Braves screw up in my opinion.

By Jeff R

October 2, 2007 8:58 PM | Link to this

Sorry, I’m not buying the argument. Frank Robinson never looked as bad at the plate as did Andruw this season. In fact, Robinson never looked bad at the plate, period.

And while Liberty Media may be willing to hike the payroll somewhat, I doubt they’ll boost it substantially. That means choices need to be made. The dollars that Andruw would command is a lot to take away for signing pitchers or paying them after a trade.

By Andy

October 2, 2007 8:58 PM | Link to this

Let Andruw take his bad attitude someplace else — I just hope his next manager shows him who is boss, and just who writes those bloated checks — his lack of offense belied his defensive skills! But I guess he was just black enough for Terence’s liking! There goes anotha brotha!!!

By Steve

October 2, 2007 9:03 PM | Link to this

Terence Moore writes about Andruw Jones: “He is the hidden reason the Braves produced Cy Glavine, Cy Smoltz and Cy Maddux,”

Sometimes one just has to shake their head in disbelief. Tom Glavine won the Cy Young in 1991 and 1998. John Smoltz won the Cy Young in 1996. And Greg Maddox won the Cy Young in 1993, 1994 and 1995 for the Braves.

Andruw Jones’ first year was 1996, and he only played in 31 games that year. So of those 6 Cy Young awards won by Glavine, Smoltz and Maddox, Andruw Jones only contributed to the Cy Young in 1998 by Glavine. The other 5 had nothing to do with Andruw Jones.

By Chris

October 2, 2007 9:07 PM | Link to this

And this is why you don’t work in baseball, TM. You would invest $20M/year for the next seven years in a guy who is going to start breaking down sooner rather than later. You’d invest $140M in a guy who has produced consistently well at the plate in one season. You read an apparent pledge to not lower payroll as an iron-clad promise signed in blood to fork over the money to sign Andruw Jones AND a quality starter. You’re out of your mind. You clearly don’t understand anything about how baseball economics work, and the fact that you’d sign Andruw long-term and risk the possibility of signing a quality player like Teixeira demonstrates your lack of knowledge on the subject. Thanks but no thanks TM. You’re the only one who thinks the Braves should’ve re-signed this guy.

P.S. Torii Hunter ain’t the answer either, Self-Designated Genius.

By N8

October 2, 2007 9:09 PM | Link to this

Najeh

Well said. Bora$$ is just that…an a$$.

But he’s damn good at it, and last time I checked, all he’s doing is what he’s hired to do.

If the GM’s and owners didn’t want salaries to keep escalating, they good just all agree to NOT spend that much money.

Simple. End of discussion. One can’t bleed the turnip if there’s no blood to be bled. (say that ten times fast!).

Same goes for the Boss (not Bruce Springsteen). If there is no rule against spending a billion dollars on payroll, how can anybody blame him for doing so, if he chooses to?

You can’t.

This is on Andruw (and maybe the player’s union). He sidestepped Boras before, if he wanted to stay that bad, he’d do it again.

Adios.

Did Terrance Moore really give credit to Andruw for Maddux, Glavine and Smoltz’ Cy Young awards?

What a frickin’ idiot. Last time I checked, the ONLY Cy Young that was garnered under Andruw’s “watch” in CF, was Glavine’s in 1998.

ALL OF THE OTHERS were won before Andruw EVER stepped into an Atlanta Braves uniform.

What an a*******wipe. It’s guys like him that give people the desire to call newspapers “fish-wrap”.

If Terrance Moore had HALF of the writing skills of DOB, he’d be a lucky man.

I wonder why Terrance’s columns have a “comment” area at the end, yet he chooses to avoid discussing his thoughts with the people who read them.

I’ll tell you why. Because he is a coward who knows that his ONLY subject that he gets passionate about is race. God forbid, he’d have to back up his thoughts.

I’ll be right here waiting……for no response, of course.

Moron.

By Paul Hamilton

October 2, 2007 9:10 PM | Link to this

At 20 million a season, I think the braves can afford to take that chance. If your going to make those arguments, then you have to make the Griffey Jr argument. He was one of the best players in baseball while with the Mariners for 10 years, and then went on to have a bunch of crazy and unfortunate injuries once he came to the Reds. I’m sad to see Andruw go, but his asking price is way too steep. Good luck Andruw, with that new contract will come even higher expectations. I hope you are ready for it.

By Amber

October 2, 2007 9:10 PM | Link to this

I sure hope another team will enjoy seeing Andruw grin as he strikes out for the zillionth time…

By Randy

October 2, 2007 9:13 PM | Link to this

Hey Terrence, I think you have sipped back alittle too much on grandpa’s old cough medicine. While I will always love Andruw for what he has done for the braves, it is definately time to move on. Andruw’s price tag was said to be waaaaaaay to high and the braves need to invest in the future of the organization instead of hampering it. Pitching, Pitching, and more Pitching…you could make the argument that Andruw was a reason for the sustained pitching success, but last I checked the Braves won the World Series without Andruw and they ranked in the top of the league in pitching before him as well…Get a clue Terrence!

By roan st

October 2, 2007 9:15 PM | Link to this

“He is the hidden reason the Braves produced Cy Glavine, Cy Smoltz and Cy Maddux, along with all of those consecutive years of team ERAs that ranked first or second in baseball”.

This is typical terrance moore propaganda. Hey, terrance you just might want to do a little research before you go spewing b.s. Of the six cy young awards won by the three distinguished pitchers you mention above only glavine’s 98 award was won with andruw as the starting center fielder. That year andruw won his first gold glove. But the other 5 cy youngs came before he donned a braves uniform. Maddux won four straight cy youngs ( one with cubs)before andruw jones ever sniffed the major leagues. So please tell us again how he is the “hidden reason the braves produced CY glavine, CY maddux and CY smoltz”. I’ll be waiting to hear your rebuttal if you have the guts to defend your remarks.

Without question we have some of the worst columnist of any major sports paper in the entire country. It’s time the AJC got rid of some of these deadbeats and hired some real writers. One would think that they might do a little research if they don’t know the answers. Yet terrance just rewrites braves history and makes stuff up as he goes to fit his argument. What a joke!

By Andy

October 2, 2007 9:18 PM | Link to this

I agree with what many of the posters are saying regarding Andruw. I will miss seeing him in CF, but Mr. Moore the Braves would be insane to sign him. As many have stated, he doesn’t run nearly as well as he did, and I honestly don’t remember him throwing out anyone this year (he may have, but I was too lazy to research it).

It’s quite obvious his skills are diminishing, and after how many years he’s still trying to pull EVERYTHING. At this point he’s a liability, and I personally think the Braves would’ve won the division if he would’ve hit at all. I can remember many instances where there were multiple people on base, only to see Andruw strike out, hit into a double play, or pop up.

His glove work is awesome, and as I said above I will miss seeing the many outstanding plays he’s made through the years, but that money would be much better off spent on starting pitching. You did watch the Braves correct Terrence, and see that beyond Hudson and Smoltz, the pitching was spotty at best and more times than not horrendous.

Good luck Andruw. I’ll always pull for you unless your team is playing the Braves. ;-)

By Mugsy101

October 2, 2007 9:19 PM | Link to this

I’d rather sign and keep Tex and add starting pitching to a team that is in dire need of rebuilding. But king terence would rather cough up $20M for Andruw, which would limit or kill the ability to both sign pitching and keep Tex.

Terence is like every other opinionist, they only look at the next 60 seconds, but you can be damn sure they will look back 100 years to criticize mistakes.

If i have to pick between who I think knows more about baseball, the Braves GM, one of if not the finest in the major leagues, or a 2-bit writer,….well….the choice is easy.

By Pinball34

October 2, 2007 9:21 PM | Link to this

Farewell Fat Boy…

By DaveFromChattanooga

October 2, 2007 9:21 PM | Link to this

Andruw saying that Wickman had a bad attitude? Look in the mirror loser! See ya, PORKIE!

By ranger

October 2, 2007 9:22 PM | Link to this

Good Riddance

By jopaw

October 2, 2007 9:26 PM | Link to this

I agree the Braves should keep Jones, but they can’t afford to. It’s his fault for getting caught up with a greedy agent. It’s another case of a pampered athlete passing up what is right, staying with a team that has been good to him and good for his career for “another” 10 million dollars. How much more money do you need? All I see is the AT&T blue room commercial where he is is pointing at 8 expense cars that look identical. He doesn’t need the money. I hate to say this, because I like him and I think history will judge him as one of the greatest center fielders of all time. All I can say is don’t bat .222 in New York or Boston. They won’t love you like we did.

By Artie

October 2, 2007 9:30 PM | Link to this

One of the “greatest centerfielders of all-time” my a$$!!!! Good riddance, Mr. Strikeout!!!!

By roan st

October 2, 2007 9:30 PM | Link to this

N8, good job you beat me to the punch on the cy young propaganda moore was spreading. Glad to know someone else out there in braves land has some sense. Check out this statistical info.

Jones is a noted defensive specialist and has won the Rawlings Gold Glove Award for center fielders every year since 1998. However, his range has decreased greatly over the last few years. In 2001, he ranked first in the league at his position in ESPN’s zone rating, which shows the percentage of balls a player fields within his zone. But in 2004 and 2006 he was last in MLB, and in 2005 he ranked 15th out of the 20 qualifiers. Hmmm. Sounds like the rest of the world is on to andruws decline as a defensive player. I’m willing to bet that nobody will pony up the 18-20 million boras demands unless the yankees lose their heads and give it up.

By David from Chattanooga

October 2, 2007 9:30 PM | Link to this

Congratulations to John Schuerholz and the Braves for having the guts NOT to re-sign Andruw. Yes, he is the greatest CF of all time. However, if I had the p** poor year that he has had, I would have gotten fired too. Mr. BorASS, you don’t ask for a huge raise after that kind of year. You’re a cancer on the game — one of the money-grubbers in this “business” that has caused it to cost a couple hundred $$$ to take a family to a single ballgame. It’s been great, but since your agent doesn’t care where you play ball, I don’t either!

By wayne

October 2, 2007 9:33 PM | Link to this

TM I knew as soon as I heard the news that the Braves had decided not to cave in to Boras that you would have an article exactly as the one you wrote. It seems that the ajc poll on the same website, agrees with the Braves decision to the tune of 71%.I guess I will stick with JS on this one. Let the Mets or Yankees pay him. He will be out of baseball in 3 years.

By David

October 2, 2007 9:35 PM | Link to this

While I am saddened to see Andruw go, there is no way he is worth the top dollar his agent is seeking. If you understand the mechanics of hitting a baseball you can see that AJ is really screwed up and has been for a couple of seasons. He is the definition of a breaking ball out. For his sake I hope he can make some adjustments to his approach at the dish but I just don’t see how you can lay out that kind of money and hope he gets turned around.

By Nancy

October 2, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this

I will miss Andruw. Yes, his batting production was down this year—but PLEASE—surely even you men who know everything will realize that he was not smiling when he struck out because he was happy—but because he was embarassed. Andruw is a GREAT centerfielder. I just hope Francoeur is going to be that good in center field cause I think that is where he will be next year.

By Jay

October 2, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this

Hey Moore, how many Cy Youngs did Maddux win with Jones as starting center fielder? Oh wait, none. How many World Series did we win without Jones as starting center fielder? Also None.

Time to move (payroll) in a different direction. And get your facts straight.

By Al

October 2, 2007 9:42 PM | Link to this

Good for him! Now he can go to a real city and compete for a world series.

By Dap

October 3, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this

I love Andruw. But leaving is HIS decision.

By PopeVanIII

October 3, 2007 11:21 AM | Link to this

Check out this link, Terence, you racist dolt:

http://bravesandbirds.blogspot.com/2007/10/i-cant-believe-you-get-paid-for-this.html

In ripping your article to shreds, this fellow does a pretty good job of highlighting the importance of research and logic to a newspaper column.

By Bartleby

October 3, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this

We could bring Andruw back but I would prefer not too.

By ColoradoBrave

October 3, 2007 11:29 AM | Link to this

Good Lord, TM, aren’t columnists supposed to at least make an attempt at reason (I realize this is an assumption you’ve proven wrong over and over again)? Yes, we’re all sad to see a Braves institution go (it still sucks to see Glav and Maddog in other teams’ uniforms), but try and get beyond the ESPN highlight films when judging Andruw. How many pieces would he cost the Braves at $17+ million/year? We can find a glove almost (no, we won’t find one as good) as good in center for half that with better OBP and less SO for the upcoming season, spend the other half on a solid #3 SP. Then (when Hampton’s albatross of a contract finally goes away), we can resign Tex in 2009. Andruw is no Frank Robinson and your man crush on Justice has clouded your judgment in regard to his true value to the teams he played with (Would he be worth 1/4 of those teams’ salaries?). Any solid CF—which Schuerholz will find—will save the Braves maybe 5-10 less runs than Andruw could, and his lost RBIs will be happily gobbled up by Chipper, Tex, Frenchy, and McCann. Good luck, Andruw…we will miss you. But GO BRAVES!

By bob

October 3, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

Goodbye Andruw, it was time for him to go. The numbers suggest that he was the primary reason the Braves are not in the playoffs—check the strikeouts with runners in scoring position in one run games lost. He should have returned half of his salary this season for poor performance instead of complaining about how the Braves took advantage of him in the last bargaining session. Good riddance.

By Chip

October 3, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

My God man. You are an idiot!! Let me count the ways:

You comment about Andruw making Cy Maddux, Cy Smoltz, Cy Glavine. Andruw’s first year as the full-time center fielder was 1997. Since then, we’ve only had one Cy Young winner, Glavine in 1998. And only two 20 game winners since then (Glavine 1998, 2000).

Also, your comment about him “contributing heavily” to 14 consecutive division titles. Again, he’s only been here for 9 of them, so we can’t award him credit for all 14.

The guy is a washed up strikeout machine who swings hard in case he hits it. His defense is not what it used to be, and he is a horrible clutch hitter. I was really upset when I thought we’d lose him last winter, but after his abysmal performance, I’m over it. We can get somebody just as productive offensely and defensively for a heck of a lot cheaper.

By Mitsy

October 3, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this

I disagree. I think it’s past time to find a good center fielder who has at least an average, consistent, bat. No, he won’t be as outstanding as Andruw with the glove. Hopefully the Braves can use the money for consistent pitchers.

By mike

October 3, 2007 11:42 AM | Link to this

Mr. Moore, based on your examples, maybe the Reds will sign Andruw. Letting Frank Robinson go proved to be one of the Reds greatest blunders… and Dave Justice is from Cincy. Go Reds!

By jon

October 3, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

First off, I really enjoyed watching Andruw over the years. In fact, I grew up watching Andruw and he was all I can ever remember (Im 24 now) Its going to be hard watching him leave, but with that being said, asking that much money is not worth it at all! Im sorry, its simply not! Terrence, for beginners, Andruw is the BEST centerfielder out there in the game..maybe EVER! Who cares? For that much money, are you kidding me? You cant have that kind of average and expect to get money…loyal or not loyal..its a business! Andruw made a business decision dealing with Boras and driving his asking price up, and so has the Braves. If your going to lose that logic then I have an idea Terrence, lets sign Adam Everett to play shortstop, Lowell to play 3rd, luis castillo to play 2nd, Menktivitz to play 1st, langerhans to play lf, andruw in center, and hell I’ll give you Francouer to be generous in right. Do you think that offense is dangerous?? Get real! Terrence, you’re a freaking idiot, and you dont deserve your job! Get a clue retard!

By mark

October 3, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

Fact: AJ is probably the best defensive CF to ever play the game. Fact: Other than his 40+ yr and 50 HR year he’s been a less than average hitter. Fact: The Braves cannot afford to pay what Scott Boras is demanding and go get the QUALITY pitching they desperately need. FACT: Pitching, or lack there of, is the reason they didn’t make the playoffs the last two years.

By H2

October 3, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this

It’s most unfortunate that Andruw Jones will longer be a part of the organization that he helped maintain a superlative reputation over the years. Andruw, once touted as the second coming of Willie Mays (and a Brave for life), he is now being dismissed after being used up like other fine athletes from this organization. Examples, if you’d like: the outspoken David Justice; the reckless Ron Gant (who remains in the foal). Also, Glavine and Maddox, two of Atlanta’s finest! Look, I know Andruw had a sub par season (batting average-wise)…but stat-wise, he was as good as many of your top-tier players. More importantly, Andruw was the stabilizing factor in the middle of the defense. And, much like the curse of the goat that stricken our friends in Chicago, casting out the top centerfielder in baseball will do the same to the Atlanta Brave. CAN YOU SAY: Welcome back Brad Kominsk?

$20M, YES, that’s a bit much. But have you ever heard of a word called: “COMPROMISE?” That’s what this game is all about! Look, you’re not paying a player like Andruw for what he did this year….IT’S CUMULATIVE! You pay him for all of the runs he saves with every body-bruising and spectacular catch! That’s what the people want to see. Of course, a little offense never hurts, as well. So, to “homeboy” John S and he superstar Agent opponent. You both blew it on this one. Again, the majority of the fans, and I am one of them, will suffer for another ten years trying to fix the mess you’ve left us.

By the way, Mr. Shuerholz (and I’m your fan as well), please step up to the plate and just let the people of Atlanta know that Andruw was never in the plans for the Braves after this year anyways. If you have an “iota” of courage, you’ll tell the truth about it. That would be might white of you!

Finally, good luck Andruw, and get healthy in your future city. You will rebound.

As the sainted Bob Hope would say: “Thanks for the memories.” You gave us many!

H2

By Torpedo

October 3, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

What mistake? mistake would have been to give him 20 million/year and be handcuffed with the tight payroll.

If he REALLY wanted to stay here instead of going after top dollar, he could have done it.

The only way we will know this was his worst season, is after next season!!!!!!! wake up!!!

By Torpedo

October 3, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this

RBI’s? I could have taken AJ spot in the line up, left handed ( I am right handed) and hit as many RBI’s…..there is a stat called Avg with runners on scoring position, take a look at that and you will see what I am talking about.

By Robert CPE

October 3, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

Did anybody watch the Padres Rookies game. THe lack of good defensive play by the Padres back up center fielder cost them the game. If Mike Cameron is playing, the Padres win in 9 and they are in the playoffs. If anybody does not think that good defensive play is important, just watch that game. Bobby is right when he says that Andruw had RBI’s in his glove. He saved an average of a run every two or three games easy. He had a horrible bat this year, but with the rest of the lineup we had, I would run him out there everyday over any other player in the league. Lets face it, Hunter and Cameron are good with the glove, but Andruw is in a league of his own. All that being said, the Braves are working under a tight budget, and with so much money already committed to other players, I don’t care who it is, if the Babe Ruth, Willie Mays and Hank Aaron were to combine forces and become the superstar of all superstar players, if I am the Braves, I do not give them 18 to 20 million a year, simply because the Braves do not have the playroll that allows them to committ that much salary to a single player. If it was going to take 18 to 20 million a year to sign andruw, then the Braves have to let him go. But mark my words, about a hundred more runs will be scored against the braves next year than otherwise would have scored because andruw is gone.

By John C

October 3, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

Let’s see. Bat less than 250 and demand a raise over 15 million? Carl Sawatski is rolling in his grave.

By H2

October 3, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this

It’s most unfortunate that Andruw Jones will longer be a part of the organization that he helped maintain a superlative reputation over the years. Andruw, once touted as the second coming of Willie Mays (and a Brave for life), he is now being dismissed after being used up like other fine athletes from this organization. Examples, if you’d like: the outspoken David Justice; the reckless Ron Gant (who remains in the foal). Also, Glavine and Maddox, two of Atlanta’s finest! Look, I know Andruw had a sub par season (batting average-wise)…but stat-wise, he was as good as many of your top-tier players. More importantly, Andruw was the stabilizing factor in the middle of the defense. And, much like the curse of the goat that stricken our friends in Chicago, casting out the top centerfielder in baseball will do the same to the Atlanta Brave. CAN YOU SAY: Welcome back Brad Kominsk?

$20M, YES, that’s a bit much. But have you ever heard of a word called: “COMPROMISE?” That’s what this game is all about! Look, you’re not paying a player like Andruw for what he did this year….IT’S CUMULATIVE! You pay him for all of the runs he saves with every body-bruising and spectacular catch! That’s what the people want to see. Of course, a little offense never hurts, as well. So, to “homeboy” John S and he superstar Agent opponent. You both blew it on this one. Again, the majority of the fans, and I am one of them, will suffer for another ten years trying to fix the mess you’ve left us.

By the way, Mr. Shuerholz (and I’m your fan as well), please step up to the plate and just let the people of Atlanta know that Andruw was never in the plans for the Braves after this year anyways. If you have an “iota” of courage, you’ll tell the truth about it. That would be might white of you!

Finally, good luck Andruw, and get healthy in your future city. You will rebound.

As the sainted Bob Hope would say: “Thanks for the memories.” You gave us many!

By braves4life

October 3, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this

The Braves had no intention in re-signing Andruw before the season even started. Just like Boras said, they sent two emails to the Braves last winter only not to get a counter-proposal. Is that how you do negoitation? You knew Boras was going to go high at the start. Any smart agent would do that. This is no different in how they treat anybody else. Andruw took the home town discount last time. All he wanted was to see if the Braves can make him a respectable offer. They never did that. That spoke volumes. I don’t care what he says, but I really do feel like this contract thing hunged over his head the entire year. He express several times how he didn’t wanted to leave ATL. They got Mark Texeria because they knew they was not going to bring back Jones. Guess what, unless the Braves come off their stand about no trade clauses, according to Boras, they will end up not having him after the 2008 season either.

The Braves could have had A-rod for the very same thing, but oh no, they didn’t wanted to give the no-trade clause.

By Paul Chung

October 3, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this

Are you serious? His salary demands are going up with his age, while his productivity is declining drastically. Re-signing him makes absolutely no sense. Get pitching and re-sign Teixeira.

By Michael

October 3, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this

TM, you took this same stance when the Braves said goodbye to Brian Jordan. BJ was great for us, but he was let go at a point in time where his ability to produce for the Braves, or anyone else, had ended. I’m a BIG Andruw fan - but after seeing him this year at the plate, it’s clear he’s not the answer. In fact, despite his always exceptional fielding skills, with the exception of 2005-06, pitchers have always had him swinging at balls out of the zone. Thanks for everything Andruw, you were the best center fielder I ever had the pleasure of watching. But this is the right move for all the right reasons.

By Justin

October 3, 2007 12:00 PM | Link to this

TM

You are the biggest racist I know. You are a disgrace. Everything you write is racially motivated. You make me sick.

By jack

October 3, 2007 12:04 PM | Link to this

Andruw is the reason for the success of Glavine, Smoltz and Maddux? Get real Terrence! What year did the Braves win the world series? 1995. What year did Andruw come along? 1996.He’s worth maybe 10 mil at his current ability, not 20.

By Mike

October 3, 2007 12:06 PM | Link to this

“He is the hidden reason the Braves produced Cy Glavine, Cy Smoltz and Cy Maddux….”

Just for the record, Andruw joined the Braves in 1996. Maddux won all three of his Cy Youngs with the Braves and Glavine one of his before that year. Smoltz won his in 1996 when Andruw played in 19 games as a rookie and Glavine won his second one in 1998.

Therefore, Andruw was the full-time center fielder when exactly one pitcher, Glavine, won a Cy Young.

Not that his defensive prowess should be minimized. Goodness, he’s the best center fielder I’ve ever seen (and I’m 49). But let’s get our facts straight and not overstate the case.

By Tom

October 3, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this

Yes Andrew has a great glove but Terrence Moore should know better. “He is the hidden reason the Braves produced Cy Glavine, Cy Smoltz and Cy Maddux, along with all of those consecutive years of team ERAs that ranked first or second in baseball.” Not so! Maddux won his 3 CY Young awards before Andrew played for the Braves in 1996. Smoltz won his CY Young in 96 when Jones played only in 31 games. Jones played a full season for only one of Atlanta’s CY Young years and that was Glavine in 1998

By Charles C. Cox

October 3, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this

Moore if Willie Mays or Tris Speaker, both regarded as the greastest center fielders of their time perfomeded like AJ , they would hit the bench, and then be traded during the off season (one year contracts then also)!

No CF can afford to be so unworthly at the play. Batting him cleanup before acquiring Texeira, and 7th, before Diaz or Harris was Cox’ insanity.

Most of Maddux’ and Glavine’s greatest years were before AJ!. To compare AJ to Frank Robinson is insanity, and the Braves continued to win pennants without Justice, so I fail to see your point!

By Brian

October 3, 2007 12:12 PM | Link to this

You do realize that Andruw Jones played in only 32 games when Smoltz won his Cy Young, was only around for one of Tom Glavine’s two Cy Youngs, and never played a single game when Greg Maddux won his 3Cy Youngs with the Braves? So out of those Do a bit of simple research before you write an article.

By Brian

October 3, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this

You do realize that Andruw Jones played in only 32 games when Smoltz won his Cy Young, was only around for one of Tom Glavine’s two Cy Youngs, and never played a single game when Greg Maddux won his 3Cy Youngs with the Braves? So out of those he was around for one of the Cy Young awards. Do a bit of simple research before you write an article.

By Spahn&Sain&PrayForRain

October 3, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this

I agree with whoever said that AJ should get a pay cut, not a raise. He just isn’t worth the risk anymore. Bottom line: If we get Torii Hunter and a couple of decent starting pitchers, we are back in the postseason next year. Guaranteed.

By kunta

October 3, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

Dear Andruw,

You’re a great player but really stunk it up this year. Your strong abilities will a good fit for another club out there. Best wishes.

By BP

October 3, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this

Thank you Braves Management!!!

We will be enjoying Andruw in centerfield in the new Washington National stadium with his old pal Stan Kasten!!!!!Thanks again!!! Oh yeah …by staying in the same division as the Braves we will still play alot…Wonder how Andruw will play in those games?

By Jason barber

October 3, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this

has anyone even considered the remote possibility that the braves are bluffing about not resigning andruw to see what other offers he gets from other teams. i seriously doubt this report that they arent going to resign a player of andruw’s capabilities i think its inherently more likely that they are just saying they arent gonna resign him so that they can make him an offer he cant refuse and saying they arent gonna resign him just to p** scott boras off. i think its also inherently more likely that andruw stays in atlanta and doesnt go anywhere but i could be wrong

By drpheffer

October 3, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this

It was a GREAT move. Perfect move. Andruw’s best days are behind him. Let some other sucker pay him $18 million per year. Glad to see the Braves were smarter than that.

By Pork Rhindstone

October 3, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this

Hey, BP, if he plays for them like has here the last couple of years than it ought to be in our favor.

By Jason barber

October 3, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this

has anyone even remotely considered the possibility that the braves are saying they wont resign andruw as a bluff to see what kinds of offers they are up against from other teams to make the best possible offer to andruw ultimately an offer he cant refuse. I Firmly believe in my heart of hearts that the braves are bluffing and just saying this so that they can make him an offer he cant refuse. but then again i could be way off base. I Could be wrong but i think he will wind up back with the braves because he will find out that when he hits the open market that he wont get the money hes asking for because of his stupid a* agent scott bleed teams dry boras

By Moose

October 3, 2007 12:39 PM | Link to this

Andruw’s range factor was below the major league median for CFs this year. Not only is he a below-average offensive player, but now he is a below-average fielder as well. Whoever does sign him to a 7-year deal will find themselves with a big liability on the payroll in 2013 when Andruw is already out of the league. Fat 230lb CFs that can’t maintain an OPS over .850 are not worth $5M a year, much less $15-20M.

By Brent

October 3, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this

Terence- I am a little confused on how Andruw was a big factor in creating Cy-Maddux, Glavine and Smoltz. If my memory serves me, Glavine won the ‘91 Cy Young, Maddux won the ‘93, ‘94, and ‘95 Cy Youngs, and Smoltz won the ‘96 Cy Young, all without the help of Andruw Jones. The only Cy Young to come in the Andruw Jones era was Glavine’s ‘98 campaign.

I am not trying to say that Andruw doesn’t save runs and make pitchers better, he clearly does. But starting pitching can be good whether the outfielders are brilliant or just average, we saw that over the 6 year run or brilliant starting pitching before Andruw was a regular.

With that said, it will be sad to see Andruw go, but it would have been a bigger mistake to pay market value for him. His defense has been steadily declining the last few years, and his offense is a complete mystery right now. You suggest that by not signing him we are taking a risk, but I think the far greater risk would have been to sign him. We could have been stuck, two or three years down the line, with an unproductive offensive center fielder with average defensive skills for the discounted price of $17-20 million per year. That is not something the Braves can afford, increased payroll or not.

By Revolting

October 3, 2007 12:46 PM | Link to this

I am totally disgusted with the Braves right now. To let go a HOF outfielder who wanted to be here is a travesty. First David Justice now Andruw Jones. I wonder what the common thread is. We have lived through Time Warner and now Liberty Media is ransacking the team. It does not matter what pitchers we get , there will be noone in the outfield to catch the ball. When the next Center Fielder is hitting .210 with 6 HR and 20 rbi and not making a catch in the clutch I wonder what the Braves will say then. Oh by the way, Chipper will be hurt again and he got paid, What is the difference…..

By David

October 3, 2007 12:54 PM | Link to this

The problem is not AJ, sadly it is JS. For example, for 2 years he has claimed money is not a problem and has found every rag arm in baseball to throw out there. I would rather have a GM that is honest with the fans on our condition. All he has been doing the last 2 years is selling tickets and claiming we are that close to getting back where we use to be. Sorry John, we are not buying it anymore.

By JB

October 3, 2007 12:54 PM | Link to this

I knew he was through when I saw his new elbow tatoo this spring. Let him go party elsewhere. Buy pitching!

By JD

October 3, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

As a Braves fan, I am also saddened that the relationship between Andruw Jones and our Braves is over. However, I am not oblivious to the fact that baseball is a business. This is something we claim to understand, yet fail to recognize each time this truth hits home. Not to be disrespectful to Terence Moore, but whatever happened to trusting in leadership. John Schuerholz has proven himself to be more than capable of leading our team to success year after year. I’m very upset and saddened that Andruw is gone but that doesn’t change the logistics of the game. Even though I’d like to believe in my heart that the majority of players still love to play the game, they also look to make as much money as they can. This is an unmistakable fact. I don’t blame Andruw for wanting his proper compensation. Obviously, we cannot afford to give him what he feels he deserves. So it’s his right to move on. But to blame our organizational leadership I think would be immature and ignorant. These types of people are the same people who blast the fans of Atlanta for not supporting the team and creating a “good sports town” atmosphere. But can we really expect the great people of Atlanta to support a team that is constantly second-guessed? I for one choose to trust our leadership. With a sad heart we say goodbye to Andruw and choose to believe, despite circumstances and budgets, that our Braves will once again be a team that will fight day in and day out to be the best. I love Andruw as a fan. But my loyalty to the Braves goes much deeper than the man in center. I guess you could call me an old-school fan. I support the team I love no matter who goes or stays. Maybe some of the Falcons fans could take a lesson in loyalty. True fans love their team no matter who’s on the current roster! GO BRAVES!!!

By alex

October 3, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this

I mean if boras was someone else he would have stayed And all you guys would have been happy he did Just ask the man if he would take a pay cut don’t judge people. I can assure you he would be missed in the centerfield you’ll see

By magician

October 3, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this

I know that someone out there will do it, but if I was keeping the purse strings for a baseball team there is no way that I would pay 20 mil for a player of his quality. Sure he can look “cute” in center field, but he is a laughingstock at the plate!

By Fred O'Meara

October 3, 2007 1:08 PM | Link to this

The Braves will have a hard time finding another guy who can hit .220 to fill that number 7 hole.

By Mark Lemke

October 3, 2007 1:08 PM | Link to this

your lack of intelligence is REVOLTING, get off of this blog

By Jenga

October 3, 2007 1:09 PM | Link to this

Will this guy ever write an article with some sense?

I love Andruw, but seriously — $20 million a year for 7 years? That’s ridiculous even if he recovers strongly from this disaster season. He WAS the best defensive center fielder in the league, but the added muscle has reduced his range. He’s still great out there, but not for that kind of money when he has to be buried deep in the lineup to avoid killing rallies.

And David Justice? This again? He left Atlanta as a right fielder and went to the AL to sometimes play the less valuable left field, but mostly a DH because of problems with his aging body and shoulder surgery. You wanted the Braves to use him as a DH? How’s that work? And Kenny Lofton is “worth mentioning”. He was very productive for the Braves and went to the All Star game.

Letting Andruw go may turn out to be a poor decision, but there isn’t a single coherent argument made in this article to support that position.

Comparing him to Frank Robinson is lunacy.

By Bill Trout

October 3, 2007 1:11 PM | Link to this

I do not think that the only reason behind Andruw Jones leaving the Braves is that the management did not want to pay him more money or ask for more money in order to sign him. I think the main reason is that Andruw, like a lot of players, thinks that he is worth more than he really is. If Andruw had gone in and said, I can afford to live on much less than $20M a season, the Braves would have made an effort. The team needs starting pitching, period. We can find suitable center fielders. As long as I have been a Braves fan, the key to their success has been pitching. The teams won with interchangable center fielders, namely Sanders, Nixon, Lofton, Grissom, etc. I would have rather seen Willie Harris in CF this year hitting around .300 as opposed to a guarenteed four outs from Andruw.

By Morris - H

October 3, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this

Good lord, we aren’t talking about Willie Mays or Joe DiMaggio.

By Kerry

October 3, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

Wah Wah Wah. Here we go again. Terrence Moore still crying about David Justice. Get over it that was 10 years ago. Let Andrew go to the Yankees. He can stike out four times in a game,hit very little homes runs, and bat .220 for them. He also can walk back to the dugout with that stupid grin on his face after striking out for them. Goodbye Mr.Overated.

By Rickey

October 3, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this

I agreed because Andruw bad year better that most the players good year. He is a GREAT in the outfield!

By tripp

October 3, 2007 1:21 PM | Link to this

** he is not responsible for the cy young awards you idiot…. we only won one while he was playing center. furthermore his strike outs are terrible, he can’t hit a curveball, he’s overweight and can’t run the basepaths, and his average is awful but its actually more in line with what he normally hits, remember when he hit .231? offensively hes below average and defensively hes incredible put that together and you dont get 7 years 140 million hes not worth it schuerholz is the best gm in the league and I can’t wait for this off-season.

By tripp

October 3, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this

* he is not responsible for the cy young awards you idiot…. we only won one while he was playing center. furthermore his strike outs are terrible, he can’t hit a curveball, he’s overweight and can’t run the basepaths, and his average is awful but its actually more in line with what he normally hits, remember when he hit .231? offensively hes below average and defensively hes incredible put that together and you dont get 7 years 140 million hes not worth it schuerholz is the best gm in the league and I can’t wait for this off-season.*

By THEO.JONES

October 3, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this

You couldn’t be more wrong Terrance. I’ll give you the gold glove, but that alone is not worth $20 million a year. Andruw no longer throws people out, steals bases, hustles on the base path, and hit in the clutch or to opposite field. He has become a “me” player. That alone is what is keeping the Braves from resigning him. When you are batting worse than the pitching staff going to right field shouldn’t offend you. I believe Andruw owes us another year for what we paid him this year. I also believe that Mike Hampton owes us too. We payed for a 270 hitter 30+ homers and 100 rbi’s, we got a .150 hitter w/ runners in scoring position. Hundred points higher in that catagory we go to the playoffs. We will miss you Andruw, but so long ole friend.

By Will

October 3, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

What an idiotic column. Im surprised he did not top it off and call the Braves racist.

By Pete

October 3, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

Andruw Jones has forgotten how to hit. We need to have a HITTER who, with men on base, BRINGS THEM HOME, not strike out or hit meekly to the infield, then smirk with that STUPID smile as he walks back to the dugout. He personally left hundreds of baserunners STRANDED this year. HUNDREDS !!! Now he wants a raise ? Enough to make you puke. He should be facing a jail sentence for de-frauding the Braves.

By Zorba

October 3, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this

I’ve been getting used to AJ leaving all season. I didn’t hurt that he was atrocious at bat. It didn’t hurt that he refused to make adjustments at the plate. I’m sorry to see him go, if he really does. I don’t think this is over.

Everyone keeps talking about saving his salary and using it for a starter. Well the real problem is the $15M we will pay Hampton next season, thankfully his last. We can use his salary after 2008 to keep Texeira.

Cut AJ loose, don’t blow the budget on a one-year centerfielder, but trade Renteria. Use those salaries for a #1 (or future #1) and a kick-butt LH prospect.

By Steve

October 3, 2007 1:30 PM | Link to this

I’m sorry but Andruw is simply not worth $20 million a year. Even though he is 30 you can tell he already is suffering from chronic pain that will diminish his performance even more at the plate. He is overweight, he doesn’t hustle when running the bases and he also has lost a step in the field. I seriously doubt he will get an offer that is even close to where Boras expects. The bottom line is , the braves can use the money Jones wanted to sign a good solid third starter and a decent center fielder, which will translate into more wins next year, good riddance cream puff.

By Robert

October 3, 2007 1:31 PM | Link to this

So Mr. Moore is stating that David Justice led his teams to the postseason after he left the Braves. Ummmm, didn’t the Braves continue their success without David Justice? Just a thought….

By George

October 3, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this

Mr.Moore,

I could not agree more, however with the track record of the Atlanta organization regarding, Murphy, Justice, Lopez,and Maddux, just to name a few, I am not surprised. It could be that Andrew could not have been signed due to money but the Braves never tried. After 43 years of being a strong supporter I think it is time for this fan to turn in his tomahawk and move on.

By Michael

October 3, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this

If Jones were going for -oh, I don’t know - say 3 years and $36 million, then maybe I’d believe what Terrence is saying. The problem is that Jones and his agent are seeking 7 years and $140 mill. That’s $20 million a year for a guy whose value at the plate leaned slightly more towards liability than luxury. Yeah, he’s lost a step or two in the outfield, but he’s still among the top 5 in the majors. But his lack of discipline at the plate has gulp actually increased.

With Texiera in play, we can easily replace Jones’ production numbers. If we can sign a stop-gap for CF until the young guy Class A is ready (forget his name), then we can use the cash to sign a decent #3 and/or a #4 for the rotation.

I hate like crazy that we’ve got to let him go. He was fun to watch in the OF. But at $20 million a year, it’s the right business move.

By glarson

October 3, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

This is so obvious what would you rather have a being in the plyoffs or status quo. Being a long time Brave fan the last few years have been wonderful. AJ year was nothing more than Mack Jones and M hampton is like waiting for Buzz Capra to return. Cameron, Rowland, Hunter or any one who can cath the ball and lead off will be fine as long as the braves get a 3rd starter. I believe in John S more than AJ

By Dan

October 3, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

Thank you Andruw Jones for your years as a Brave. That being said, I look back at Andruw’s career with the Braves as an era of failed promise. He is the most physically gifted player to ever where the Braves uniform but he never fully developed his potential. Andruw never seemed to develop a hitters eye and he always seemed to rely on his physical abilities to carry him through. Jones’ agent wants a seven year contract. I don’t worry about the first 3-4 years of that contract. I worry about years 5-7 when Jones is in his mid thirties. Players who don’t intellectually develop as hitters become useless when they start to lose bat speed due to age. Especially someone who is already a .260 hitter. I encourage Andruw to prove me wrong. But from my perspective I say kudos to the Braves for not hamstringing the organization for years to come with a fat contract for an unrealized talent. Organizations should pay top dollar for ace pitchers and hitters that bat 1st, 3rd and 4th in the batting order. Andruw has never been better than a 6th hitter placed in the cleanup spot out of necessity.

By Tim

October 3, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

Andruw is one making the mistake. If he would allow the Braves to pay him what he is worth and not what He THINKS he is worth, everyone would be happy. When Andruw came to the plate in Atlanta (.200 batting Avg and all) he was cheered for like the great player he is. He will never get that kind of RESPECT again. Good Luck Andruw, We will miss you but not as much as YOU WILL MISS US.

By hamm

October 3, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this

not to worry Terence Moore , just like Frank and Dave , he needs to leave more and be better than to stay and not be respected.

By Greg

October 3, 2007 1:42 PM | Link to this

Losing AJ will in no way hurt the Braves in 08. Spend the money on the pitching staff. There’s plenty of talent in the Braves minor league to fill the void in CF. But as long as the onwership throws pennies out instead of dollar bills, you won’t see ATL in the playoffs for a while.

By la pura neta

October 3, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this

for all of you idiots. Andrew is the greatest center fielder to play the game whether you admit it or not. THe braves are making a huge mistake. Drew will put the same or close numbers that he did next year and the braves are going to regreted. I have follow the braves for a long time and yet the have made some positive moves and negative ones. but thats the risk you take on this game. Andrew’s contract should of been solved since the begining of this year and it would of been a different story for the braves and andy.

By John matjoulis

October 3, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this

Amen. AJ cost them first place. They should have had Stevy Wonder batting 4th.

By Okeetee

October 3, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

…hey, you ever heard the old baseball expression: “good field, no hit!!?” The Minor leagues are loaded with players that can field more than adequately in the big leagues….but struggle at the plate. You want the Braves to pay 17-20 million dollars a year for Andruw who is “good field-no hit?”

By DLA

October 3, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

Real proud of you, Mr. Moore, you made it a whole 5 paragraphs before pulling out you often-used race card.

By GTI in Chicago

October 3, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

Mr. Moore, you’re just loopy. AJ is a great center-fielder, but you talk like he’s the only human in the game who can go catch the ball. Braves pitchers won 6 Cy Youngs; FIVE of those were earned BEFORE AJ was even on the team (He was only a late season call-up in ‘96, remember?)

But, I don’t think anyone’s really saying that he’s now going to suck for the rest of his career, and that’s why we don’t want him anymore. The point is, rather, that he simply isn’t worth the 17, 18, 19, 20+ Million dollars a season that some other fool team is likely to pay him. I don’t think someone like Texieria is worth those dollars either, but I’d be much more willing to throw that kind of dough at someone like him, who is CONSISTANT with the bat, who is STEADY in the clutch, and RELIABLE when runners are on base and the game is on the line.

I think it stinks that we have to let AJ go, but i’m happy the braves aren’t going to be stupid and waste all that cash. The truth of it is that Aaron Rowand is the best all-round, and most affordable center-fielder who’s going to be on the market this winter. And that’s even considering that he won’t duplicate many of his career-best stats from this year.

I wish AJ well, but for the sake of my team, I’m not sad to know his bloated price will be paid elsewhere.

By Ted

October 3, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this

Didn’t Hunter outslug Andruw this year 28 to 26???

By BB's

October 3, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this

Five players will make $65 million of the team’s total $84 million payroll. Andruw would have made it 6 players making 80-85 out of 100 had they signed him. That is what is wrong with the game. That is why I have not bought a ticket in 4 years. I will go if someone gives me a ticket. I will watch and cheer on TV. But I will not contribute to idocy of paying individuals that much. And who can stay up for playoff games anyway. I love watching Andruw play CF. He is the best I’ve ever seen out there. But the team can become better with a lower priced CF and more pitching. For the same reasons Renteria will likely be traded. It’s a shame. But that is the price of greed.

By STRETCH

October 3, 2007 2:25 PM | Link to this

I know it might be a little early, but has anyone heard any rumors of who the Braves might be picking up? What are the teams options?

By Greedyman

October 3, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this

Andruw Jones will be missed. If the Braves do not find a centerfielder near the talent of Jones, they will find out how valuable his run saving ability really was and really is to an organization.

By Rev. Zoldars

October 3, 2007 2:30 PM | Link to this

I know this is long, but it is from the BravesandBirds blog that another reader mentioned above. This is what I think of you too TM

http://bravesandbirds.blogspot.com/2007/10/i-cant-believe-you-get-paid-for-this.html

I Can’t Believe you Get Paid for this, Terrence

In one of the least surprising developments in Atlanta sports history, Terrence Moore thinks the Braves should keep Andruw Jones. Does he examine Jones’s record to give us hope that his disastrous 2007 was a fluke? Does he attempt to justify making a long-term commitment to a guy who doesn’t pay so much attention to staying in shape? Does he make the argument that Jones is worth the $15-18M per year that it will apparently take to sign him? No. He’s Terrence Moore and he wants a unicorn to come down and pay for Andruw Jones with hugs, smiles, and Monopoly money. Let the fisking commence:

Bad move.

Terrible move.

OK, we’ve established that you think that two words can constitute an effective paragraph. What else are you going to do to embarrass yourself?

Actually, this is an atrocious move for the Braves, because manager Bobby Cox had it right for eternity when he said of Andruw Jones, who ranks 1a, 1b or 1c among baseball’s center fielders for the ages, “He has RBIs in his glove.”

Yes, Andruw saves runs with his glove. So does Reggie Abercrombie. Does his defensive ability justify a .238 OBP? Are there teams lining up to give him $100M over five years?

It didn’t matter that Jones often looked ridiculous for long stretches after swinging and missing at pitches in search of reaching the farthest dark hole. Who cared that his batting average spent two seasons going south instead of north? No, he wasn’t much in the clutch this year, and yes, his agent is Scott Boras, the bogeyman for teams wishing to sign one of Boras’ clients below the amount of the national debt.

Let’s rephrase this to be about a sports columnist instead of a centerfielder to illustrate the fact that an outfielder’s inability to hit is somewhat important:

It didn’t matter that Moore couldn’t tell the difference between first person and third person voice. It didn’t matter that Moore demonstrated such a lack of understanding of baseball that he determined that Juan Pierre was the solution to the Braves’ hole in left field. It didn’t matter that Moore couldn’t construct a logical argument that would pass muster in eighth grade civics, let alone a major newspaper. It didn’t matter than Moore demanded to be paid $11M per year to write columns that only served to anger his readership.

And, yes, the Braves can ease some of the post-Jones trauma with the signing of free agent Torii Hunter, the former center fielder and slugger for the Minnesota Twins. He also has a magic glove, and even though he can’t slug with Jones, he is more consistent at the plate with his ability to sustain hitting streaks.

Demonstrating the adage that a stopped clock is right twice a day, Moore actually makes a decent point here. Hunter is a good player and, unlike Andruw, his OPS+ has gone up in each of the last four seasons. Not coincidentally, he takes care of himself physically and has therefore not shown the aging effects that a centerfielder carrying around 15 extra pounds in the belly might.

That said, with the new folks at Liberty Media claiming they are willing to increase the payroll, the Braves’ Designated Geniuses should have discovered ways to acquire much-needed starting pitching while keeping Jones.

It’s all so simple! The Braves should re-sign Andruw for an outrageous sum AND improve the pitching. Presumably, we’ll trade Corky Miller for Jake Peavy and Chris Woodward for Brandon Webb. We’ll then win five straight World Series titles and it was all because the profoundly moving Terrence Moore suggested to Liberty Media that it bump the payroll up to $150M and give Kevin Towers and Josh Byrnes lobotomies!

In fact, Jones was part of the solution regarding that starting pitching. He is the hidden reason the Braves produced Cy Glavine, Cy Smoltz and Cy Maddux, along with all of those consecutive years of team ERAs that ranked first or second in baseball. He caught everything. He threw out everybody. He made the spectacular routine. He did so through an 11th year with the Braves that will produce a 10th Gold Glove, but management will shove Jones out the door by allowing him to become a free agent while yawning.

Here are the Braves’ ranks in NL ERA in the seven years before Andruw Jones became a regular centerfielder in 1998:

1991 - 3rd 1992 - 1st 1993 - 1st 1994 - 2nd 1995 - 1st 1996 - 2nd 1997 - 1st

Gee, how did the Braves’ pitchers ever get anyone out when Otis Nixon, Deion Sanders, Roberto Kelly, Marquis Grissom, and Kenny Lofton were in centerfield?

Moore’s citation to the gold glove award, one of the most useless awards on the face of the planet, just shows the bankruptcy of his argument. Riddle me this, Terrence: if Andruw can no longer steal bases, that would imply that he’s not especially fast anymore, right? And if he’s not especially fast anymore, then how does he catch everything? As for throwing everyone out, would it have killed Moore to actually look at Andruw’s outfield assists - seven in the past two years - before making yet another argument that would have been true several years ago, but isn’t now?

Well, mostly yawning. As a lifetime Braves player who contributed heavily to the franchise’s record 14 consecutive division titles, Braves officials will continue to say nice things about Jones as they wave good-bye. Still, the bottom line remains: He’s gone, and he’s only 30, and history comes to mind. Not in a good way, especially if the baseball gods wish to spank the Braves for their short-sightedness.

This oughta be good. Terrence is going to teach us a little history. Will he blame the Braves decline on the departure of Brian Jordan or David Justice? I’m tingling with anticipation.

Consider 1966. That was the first year Frank Robinson played for the Baltimore Orioles, and it was the first year of David Justice’s life.

And there’s our answer.

Let’s start with Robinson, the undisputed star of the Cincinnati Reds for nearly a decade. He was traded to the Orioles for nothing worth mentioning before that 1966 season, because Reds owner Bill DeWitt said Robinson was “an old 30.” All that a creaky Robinson did in his first season with the Orioles was take the American League’s Triple Crown Award, lead them to their first world championship and grab World Series MVP honors. He eventually pushed the Orioles to three more pennants and another world championship (over the Reds), and then trotted to Cooperstown from there.

Cincinnati traded Frank Robinson following a year in which Robinson had a .926 OPS. He showed absolutely no signs of decline. Andruw is coming off of his worst season in a Braves uniform. Additionally, the Reds made the voluntary decision to trade Robinson. Do you not see a wee distinction between trading someone already under contract and not pursuing an expensive free agent when you have finite payroll and a pitching staff in desperate need of reinforcement?

As for Justice, the batting hero of the Atlanta Braves’ only world championship in 1995, he suffered a shoulder injury early during that next season, and then he was dealt to the Cleveland Indians before the following year for nothing worth mentioning.

Nothing worth mentioning = three-time all-star Kenny Lofton, who was coming off a season in which he had a .372 OBP, stole 75 bases, and finished 11th in the MVP voting. Oh, and Lofton was heading into his age-30 season and promptly had a poor year for the Braves. That kinda defeats the argument that letting someone go around their 30th birthday is always a terrible idea, doesn’t it?

He was …

That’s right, 30.

Do you get paid by the paragraph, Terrence?

Justice immediately slugged the Indians to their second World Series in three years.

Justice had an outstanding year in 1997, possibly because he was angry about getting traded and decided to show the world that he could still play, but that’s neither here nor there. In terms of getting the Indians to the World Series, Justice hit a whopping .253 with one homer in 67 post-season at-bats in 1997. He must be the reason why the Indians made the World Series.

He later joined the New York Yankees, where he became the MVP of the AL championship series before helping to lead the pinstripe bunch to another world championship.

You’re right. Justice was the key to the Yankees winning in 2000. Where else could they have found a DH to hit .206 in a post-season?

When he ended his career with a playoff trip with the Oakland A’s, he had reached the playoffs six times after his trade from the Braves. He also retired as the all-time postseason leader in games played, at bats, extra-base hits, runs, hits, total bases, walks and RBIs.

Congrats, Terrence. You’ve conclusively established that David Justice played on a lot of good baseball teams. He played for the Braves in the midst of a run of 14-straight divisional titles, the Indians in the midst of five straight divisional titles, the Yankees in the midst of a run of 13 straight playoff appearances that shows no signs of abating, and the A’s in the midst of a run of four straight playoff appearances. How is this relevant to Andruw Jones? Oh yeah, you were making the point that it is dangerous to off-load a player at age 30 by showing that the Braves made a mistake when they traded one star outfielder around age 30 for another. The lesson most sane people would take from the Lofton/Justice trade is that it is bad to acquire a malcontent with a bad hamstring. The lesson for Terrence is that baseball teams should never trade 30-year olds.

By the way, Moore cites to Justice’s aggregate post-season stats, but neglects to note that Justice is a career .224 hitter in the playoffs with a .717 OPS. He accumulated lots of numbers because he played for good teams and the playoffs are much longer now than they were for most of baseball’s history. There’s that pesky concept of context biting Terrence in the rear again. (For the record, I always liked David Justice. I just feel the need to slag him off because Terrence Moore is using him to illustrate a point.)

This isn’t to say Jones will become Robinson or even Justice during his post-Braves career.

This is to say why even take the chance?

This reasoning could be used to prevent the Braves from ever letting any player go. Why let Chris Woodward go when he could turn into Cal Ripken? Why let Buddy Carlyle go when he could be the next Greg Maddux? Moore’s argument is also putrid because he acts as if the only risk is in letting Andruw go. There can’t possibly be any risk involved in giving an expensive long-term contract to a pudgy centerfielder who is plainly not as fast as he used to be and is coming off of his worst season in the majors. A useful analyst would compare the risks and make a recommendation. Terrence Moore is not useful. Or, as Terrence would write it…

Terrence Moore.

Is not.

Useful.

By Stuart

October 3, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this

I like Andruw, I wish he had not hit .220 this year and had the dip in power. I think he has a wonderful glove, but the fact is he is not a 20 mil a year player. If LM would raise payroll enough to get another pitcher, keep Texiera, and if Andruw would take another 6yr. 75mil contract, I would keep him.

The braves do not need anymore swing and miss guys in this lineup, especially if we try and trade Edgar. The team strikes out too much and Andruw especially.

I have no idea what the plans for CF are and I hate to see ‘Dru go, but after this year, he aint worth the money.

By SHIRLEY DELANEY

October 3, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

I HAVE BEEN A BRAVES FAN FOR LONGER THAN I CAN REMEMBER. I AM NOW 56 AND MY HUSBAND AND I HAVE BEEN TO TURNER FIELD SEVERAL TIMES AND WATCH THE BRAVES EVERY TIME THEY HAVE A GAME. WE LIVE IN NATCHEZ, MISSISSIPPI AND HAVE TRAVELED TO ATLANTA EACH YEAR TO WATCH OUR BRAVES. WE HAVE LOVED WATCHING CHIPPER, SMOLTZIE, AND LAST, BUT CERTAINLY NOT LEAST, “THE KID” ANDRUW. I AM NOT KNOWLEDGABLE OF THE TRADES AND ARBITRATIONS THAT GO ON IN MLB, BUT I DO KNOW THAT WHEN YOU LET SOMEONE OF ANDRUW JONES’ CALIBUR GO, SOMETHING IS WRONG. I DO NOT AND EVER WILL UNDERSTAND WHY YOU KEEP PEOPLE LIKE SCOTT THORMAN, WILLIE HARRIS, PETE ORR, AND SOME OF THE PITCHERS IN THE BULL-PEN, BUT DO NOT HESITATE TO GET RID OF ANDRUW, WHO HAS ALWAYS BEEN THERE FOR THE BRAVES GIVING 100%. I BELIEVE THAT THE POWERS THAT BE IN ATLANTA OUGHT TO TAKE A MOMENT, SIT BACK, AND TRY TO REMEMBER WHAT AN ASSET HE HAS BEEN TO THIS BALLCLUB. THE AFOREMENTIONED PLAYERS CANNOT COLLECTIVELY GIVE THE BRAVES WHAT ANDRUW HAS GIVEN THEM, BUT IN A BLINK OF AN EYE, HE’S GONE. WHAT IS GOING ON IN ATLANTA? I THINK I COULD GO ON AND ON, BUT APPARENTLY SOMEONE THINKS THEY KNOW WHAT IS BEST FOR THE BRAVES, BUT BELIEVE ME, I WILL NEVER FORGET ANDRUW JONES’ CONTRIBUTIONS NOR HIS WILLINGNESS TO PLAY WHETHER BEING HURT OR NOT. THE LOYALTY ALONE OUGHT TO MEAN SOMETHING, BUT APPARENTLY IT IS LOOKED AT AS SOLELY A BUSINESS. I HOPE THE BRAVES CAN DO WELL WITHOUT HIM, BUT PLEASE DON’T SHOVE THESE OTHER PLAYERS IN OUR FACE WHO HAVE NOT PROVEN ANYTHING AS FAR AS THEIR PLAYING ABILITY IS CONCERNED. PLEASE RECONSIDER WHAT YOU IN ATLANTA HAVE DONE. THERE ARE A LOT OF FANS LIKE US WHO WILL FEEL THAT CENTERFIELD WILL NEVER BE THE SAME.

By Elmer

October 3, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

Solution: JF in center, KJ in right, YE @ 2nd

By Hoosier Daddy

October 3, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this

All the pieces are on this squad now. Move Francour to center, Kelly Johnson to right, Matt Diaz in left and Escobar to second. Use the money from Andruw’s salary to sign a pitcher or two. Develope the farm. It’s worked in the past. Seems Andruw was one of those guys. He was a pleasure to watch for all those years but it’s time to move on…

By PAD

October 3, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this

Hey Terence, I think it’s not fair to let Andruw go, but if it’s for Braves’ benefit in order to save some money and hire a good starting pitcher we can run the risk.

Andruw is a gifted athlete and posses one of the most secure gloves, but in clutch situations only produce desperation to all of those were swatching him.

Anyway Andruw will be missed knowing that he’s one of the biggest centerfielder in Major Leagues’ history.

By Used Car Dealer

October 3, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

Hey Terrance,

Would you spend $75,000 on a used Toyota Celica? Probably not, very dependable, solid and safe, but not worth that kind of money.

By gtfan

October 3, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

Wow!!! Moore, you got burnt on this one, must be all that AJC, responsible, fact-finding initiatives y’all have there.

**Terence Moore writes about Andruw Jones: “He is the hidden reason the Braves produced Cy Glavine, Cy Smoltz and Cy Maddux,”

Sometimes one just has to shake their head in disbelief. Tom Glavine won the Cy Young in 1991 and 1998. John Smoltz won the Cy Young in 1996. And Greg Maddox won the Cy Young in 1993, 1994 and 1995 for the Braves.

Andruw Jones’ first year was 1996, and he only played in 31 games that year. So of those 6 Cy Young awards won by Glavine, Smoltz and Maddox, Andruw Jones only contributed to the Cy Young in 1998 by Glavine. The other 5 had nothing to do with Andruw Jones. **

By sonny

October 3, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

I noticed that someone said that TM does not respond like many of the other ajc writers do. I would bet my house that he does, but he just doesn’t use his name. Terrance, If Chipper had a .220 avg and was a free agent, would you back him like you are doing for Andruw. Skin color probably wouldn’t allow you to do that. Why don’t you just stick to your cash cow(the fall of M.Vick) and leave the Braves articles to someone who actually pays attention to the team. I bet Maddux would have never won a cy young award without Andruw(YSF). TM you are a joke.

By wg

October 3, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this

Yes, AJ will be missed. BUT GAWD, get off the soap box. The Braves cannot afford to pay AJ and TEX and the money should go to TEX. His glove is Golden as well and his bat is Platinum not Lead. Let’s say goodbye to AJ and trade Edgar for a top notch pitcher and MOVE ON.

By Barbara

October 3, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this

For once someone with some sense. I agree with Terrence. There should of been money saved to keep Andruw. Its not like no one knew he wanted more money. Boras is a piece of garbage and I wish Andruw would fire him. I have no respect for anyone that would charge a grandmother $35 million dollars to save her drowning grandchild. He sits on his yacht and watches this kid drowning and doesn’t lift a finger to help. He is a piece of crap. Why would we want Torii Hunter in Andruws spot? I for one doesn’t. Athletes today are payed way to much money. They need to get over themselves and realize they are overpayed to play a game that they are suppose to love. Andruw has said he wanted to stay in Atlanta. With that said he needs to take what they offer and shut up. I think that Boras has more to do with that then anyone. The more money he gets Andruw the more he gets. If he can afford a yacht he is getting to much and not getting the players what they want but what he wants to make his life better. Hampton should of been cut a long time ago and that would free up money. Why pay Texiera $12 million? He has bad days just like everyone else. I think that Harris, Esobar and Renteria play as well if not better. The owners need to get off the money if they want a world series team and figure out a way to keep Andruw.

By Rev. Zoldars

October 3, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

Ted Turner needs to buy the AJC. reading this paper is like watching the 1990 atlanta braves.

I mean, first of all, many papers have fact checkers. Secondly, if your articles are spewing with incorrect info, thats simply a lie. Why do you just lie terrance? Most people arent stupid and are going to buy this crap. We have some serious fact checkers here that read the blogs. And with your prior history, why should anyone believe you? The fact that you represent Atlanta in a way, makes me sick. You are a 5 tool writer - (with emphasis on tool) 1.racist 2.bigot 3.false journalism 4.Poor sentence structure 5.and the only unique articles you produce, are your own lies

They have that firejoemorgan.com we need a fireterrancemoore.com

By Rev. Zoldars

October 3, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this

Barbara, that doesnt even make sense

By dewan Lee

October 3, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

Its amazing how people are criticizing Andruw when all he did was give his all every game he plyed suffice for his rookie year. Ask Bobby who is his all time favorite player I bet you Andruw will come up 9 out of 10 times. People say that he did not bring in 150 RBI’s. Look at that statement for a minute. every year Andruw leads the team in RBI’s are right near the lead but because he is not perfect he gets ridiculed. This goes to show that HE has set the bar so high that you expect nothing but greatness even though other players get a bye on this. While not saying that a .220 average is acceptable we must look at the whole picture. Would you rather have a 330 hitter how never brings in runs are a .220 hitter who has a higher chance to bring in plus save runs. I will use McCann as an example. How many pitches did he straight drop or base runners steal bases that led to RBI’s? Exactly no one sees that but how about seeing Andruw knowing exactly where to go and being in perfect place or stoppig the line drive from falling in. Saying he is not as fast as he was 10 years ago is kinda absurd. The Braves as a team did not run and we can look at Furcal as a point to show that fact. Raffy went from 100 base steals to at most 45 with ATL. Andruw hasnt lost a step and if you think so please challenge him to a run. People who never had speed are the ones who say this. As a speedster I will tell you that you dont lose speed and extra weight will not make you slower. If you are running a marathon the weight may hurt you but for running 90 feet it makes no difference. I will go on and root for the Angels are Dodgers since one of them will sign Andruw. I almost left after maddux, Justice, Gant, Glavine, Millwood, Smicdt, but Andruw was there but now he is gone and the homeboy upstairs (JS) either does not care or is constrained. I wish Ted was running the show and had not made that Dumb A### deal with TW and AOL. I would argue that the Braves would have at least 3 or 4 WS now if he had left things as they were but now we are not even AMericas team anymore. Andruw will hit at least 300 more homers and next year I predict he will bat no lower than 290. The Dodgers will truly be special with Andruw in CF, Loney at 1st, laroche at 3rd or Nomar, Raffy at SS, Kent at 2B, Kemp in RF, the best young catcher Russell Martin (Sorry BMAC) whi is a 5 tool as evidenced by his 20 steals, 20 homers, 48% throw out rate, and 286 BA. They will be nice especially once jason Smidt is healthy to go along with Penny and others.

By Jeff321

October 3, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this

I used to be an AJ fan.. back in the 90s! Sheesh, this guy is nothing but a strikeout king. GOOD RIDDANCE!!!

By SDL

October 3, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this

All these absurd salaries will continue to escalate unabated as long as the middle class is willing to pay for them. Agents, team owners and other power brokers are in it together… they will continue to raise cable rates to balance their books. They know there’s disposable income in the middle class they can continue to poach.

By braint

October 3, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

You notice JS ignored the demand sheet from Boras from DECEMBER? December of last year when AJ could actually ask for that kind’a money. Don’t rule AJ out yet. JS has not spoken to Boras after this horrible year by AJ. I think JS has something up his sleeve. When Boras shops AJ around and no one opens their checkbook don’t be surprised if AJ picks up the phone a calls JS personally.

By robert

October 3, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

Great move!!!!!!! He is not mentally tough. If he “froze” this year thinking about what was at stake($$$$$$$$) imagine next year when he would have to justify those dollars.It would have been UGLY.

By Lyle

October 3, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

I was bored with the grin Andruw would show after striking out for the 3rd time in a game! Another team can have that grin along his coming to camp overweight every year and hitting barely .260.

By Rev. Zoldars

October 3, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this

Hey Dewan Lee, the only bar thats too high is his salary. Certainly not his average.

And when the hell did Furcal steal 100 bases? Did you go to the TM school of journalism?

By Ludowici Dawg

October 3, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

Let’s see…. great defense in center field. OK

Routinely jogging out grounders (no effort). SAD Apparent disregard for hitting instructors. No plate discipline. SAD Abysmal hitting average. SAD

No doubt if he worked at it he’s one of the best, but, his lackidasical style, effort and attitude are best suited for our competitors. Good luck Andruw keep up the mediocre work! (for someone else!)

I’d rather lose with someone giving it their all than try and compete with somebody that doesn’t give a flip whether we win or lose!

By Nancy

October 3, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this

We love Andrew and all he has done for us. Very sorry to see me leave. Hope the Braves don’t regret it.

By Rocky

October 3, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this

Thats ok,…i was getting tired of watching andruw swing at balls in the dirt and grounding into double plays, now they can try to get a center fielder with some speed who can bat lead off. This circumstance would balance the line-up and most certainly alow the braves to sign a legit closer, but most off all give the braves a better chance of re-signing mark texiera who looks like an exceptional candidate to replace chipper jones as the cornerstone, team leader and face of the franchise.

By george

October 3, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

I liked Andruw’s defense, and appreciate all that he did for the Braves, but there is no way in hades that he is worth anywhere close to even last year’s salary of $13 million. Let him go !!!

By reebok

October 3, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this

Hate to see Andruw go…where else are we going to find an overpaid, overweight, .222 hitter who’s never learned to hit OR lay off the curve, and whose career peaked 8 years ago?

By Ted

October 3, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this

Of the Braves’ six Cy Youngs in the 90s, they only won ONE with Andruw in CF (‘98 Glavine). Nice research, dude.

By dewan Lee

October 3, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this

Well REV. for your instance I went to college and majored in accounting prior to receiving my commission as an Army Officer. Before you speak about journalism go back and look at your subject and verbs. “And when the hell” As you see you started a sentence with And and that does not work. Using antecedents takes from your subject verb agreement which in turn makes your sentence hyphenated.

Rafael Furcal stole 100 bases while in the minors as was stated. While I can agree that “All Salaries in Sports” are too high, lets be cognizant that the market is the market. During Andruw’s last contract he took less than he could have made elsewhere as a show of good faith but now he and is agent are lambasted for expecting more. There is no loyalty in Sports just as their is no loyalty in Corporate America. Today you can have a high paying job and tomorrow you could be replaced by an Illegal or a younger face who does not receive the salary or perks that you yourself received.

By dewan Lee

October 3, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this

1999 Rafael Furcal played 2 levels of Minor League Baseball and in 126 games he stole 96 bases.

By Pat W.

October 3, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this

What are you complaining about, Terence? Now we can go after Ken Griffey Jr. like you’ve been saying every year for the past five or six.

By Mork

October 3, 2007 4:46 PM | Link to this

I’m embarrassed that this fool writes for my home paper.

Whether I agree with his opinions or not is immaterial. That he can’t even approach something factually accurate in this article, however, is sad.

Atlanta’s a major city. We deserve journalism from someone at least moderately competent. And if you’re too afraid to fire the fool you have, at least hire someone to read over this garbage and check its facts. Someone who passed 8th grade math would suffice.

By Eric

October 3, 2007 4:50 PM | Link to this

Comparing Andruw to Frank Robinson? Bad move. Terrible move. Hey, T. Moore, do some reserch. Maddux won all CY’s before Andruw was a Brave. He played 31 games in 96 when Smoltz won his and he played a full season in 98 when glavine won his. So of the 7 CY’s won by Brave pitching in the 90’s, Jones played ini one of those years. The only person more over paid in Atlanta than Andruw is you.