Sports Columnists

By Erin

October 30, 2007 10:26 PM | Link to this

Thank you, Jeff! I totally agree on every single point. Glavine would be a huge boost to a struggling rotation. He’s probably only going one more year anyway and he should finish the way he started…as a Brave!

By Robert S

October 30, 2007 10:52 PM | Link to this

Say what you want about Glavine, his age, his decision to leave Atlanta, his attitude during the strike.

He pitched the best game in Atlanta Braves history, Game 6 of the 1995 World Series. He played a huge role in our only championship.

I would take either Maddux or Glavine back. Gladly. I’ll take 13-15 wins and a 4.00 ERA from a 42-year-old any day over the dreck we had at the back of the rotation this past season.

Bring him back.

By Tyler Durdin

October 30, 2007 10:56 PM | Link to this

Two words: Game Six. Bring him back.

By Steve Avery

October 30, 2007 10:58 PM | Link to this

What would be nice would be to sign Glavine AND another mid-level starter. Think about that rotation…Smoltz, Hudson, Hampton, Glavine, and ???. Come to think of it, how about our new Tigers acquisition as the #5 starter?? If Hampton is healthy, that would be a great rotation. Even if not, then Chuck James could fill-in.

By The Grinch

October 30, 2007 10:59 PM | Link to this

I don’t like Glavine at all. AT ALL. He’s a money-grubbing traitor who represents everything wrong with this sport (other than the young, disrespectful primadonna thing; I’ll give him that). I’ve booed him soundly every game he’s been here in a Met uniform. That said, I won’t boo our uniform and if there’s any way to help avoid watching Chuck James come out every third game after 4 2/3 innings and 75 pitches, I suppose I’m for it. Our bullpen wouldn’t be so bad if our rotation was at least semi-competent after Smoltz and Hudson.

By Aterr

October 30, 2007 11:06 PM | Link to this

Bring Back The Glav!!! He would surely be an asset to the struggling Braves pitching staff.

By GTO Ron

October 30, 2007 11:07 PM | Link to this

I agree, as much as it rubbed me the wrong way with Tommy taking a leadership position with the union, it’s time to get over it. What he was and did for the Braves franchise far outweighs that one indiscretion (my opinion). His class, knowledge and experience will significantly improve the Braves. Just one more thought. This may be Bobby’s last year, he has great respect for Glavine, if he wants Tommy back..I support him 100%!

By TennesseePaul

October 30, 2007 11:15 PM | Link to this

Pretty limited number of reasons. How about this one?
Reason: The Braves need to focus on a long term pitching solution, Glavine is a one year deal.
Response: But it’s Tom Glavine.
The main reason to bring him back is, he’s a quick fix. But there is no getting around the fact that he is not a long term solution.
2008. Here is what 2008 brings for sure. Last guaranteed year of Smoltz. Second to last season of Hudson. Last guaranteed year of Chipper. Last guaranteed year of Teixeira. No more Renteria. Last year of Hampton.
What does that mean? It means in November of 2008 the Braves could be looking to fill at least 2 starting pitching positions and 2 corner infield positions.
Why bring it up? Because this season has the least amount of turnover and the most amount to gain. Why sign Glavine to a one year deal when acquiring a younger mid-rotation pitcher would help for the future?
Whatever. Wren isn’t GMing by the blog anyway. He’s going to do what he’s going to do. But I do have a question…
The Braves’ Mike Hampton has not thrown to a batter since spring training of last season when he injured his throwing arm. He’s been rehabbing and recently began pitching off a mound, and will not be in winter ball
—AJC

What the hell is this? He’s not going to winter ball? When did this happen? Last it was reported he was going to pitch winter ball so the team would know what to expect. Is he spending his winter in Redman’s basement?

By GLYNN

October 30, 2007 11:17 PM | Link to this

It sounds like a positive move for the club—when compared to the options available out there. but we should remember Glavine’s sudden rejuvenation came when they signed Beltran to run down those long drives into the outfield. he also enjoyed the support of the now jettesoned Ajones while here in Atlanta. If he is to be signed, the braves need to pay serious attention to who roams center field too, to back him up. Glavs a great addition then in my book.

By Peter

October 30, 2007 11:21 PM | Link to this

I would never take the greedy bum back……..let him rot in Kansas City or some other cellar dwelling club, or offer him about 4 million and work on the cheap for his former attitude………

I hope Andru, and A-Rod get the same as well….they can all play together in Kansas City…….

Game six when we won the World Series was light years ago…… has anyone seen how poorly he finished the season.

By the way all how many outs did he get in the Mets final game ?

I didn’t ask innings I asked outs !!!

He is done and not worth bringing back !

By TBurns

October 30, 2007 11:24 PM | Link to this

The problem with so many aging pitchers is that they can’t pitch deep into ball games thus putting undue strain on bullpen arms. (See Yankees pitching staffs the last few years) That collection of arms may be good enough to get you into the playoffs, but an early exit is nearly assured from there.

Glavine represents a step backward for the organization, but hey if he can hold us over for one year until some of the really big fish hit the market, then give it a one year run.

By rick

October 30, 2007 11:24 PM | Link to this

Bring back Tommy and go after Greg while you’re at it. Tommy G’s implosion in the season finale was divine intervention…Much easier to sign with the Braves after that day.

By Peter

October 30, 2007 11:33 PM | Link to this

By the way Glavin not only left us, he left us and went to our biggest rival……. NEW YORK METS !

He may be the reason we didn’t make the post season…….. boy all forgets so fast……… You all want to reward a guy like that ?

Not only that, we beat him up pretty good when we faced him, what makes all think he can still pitch…..he will get beaten up like a pinata !

Especially when he faces the Mets, the Phillies, and the Marlins…….he is WASHED UP !

By Mike Jorgensen

October 30, 2007 11:33 PM | Link to this

Bringing back Glavine is a no-brainer. He will give us respectable numbers, a mature veteran presence in the clubhouse, and a mentor to guide the young arms. Shoot, he will probably even mentor McDowell. McDowell should tell Wren et al, “I’ll do whatever it takes” to get Glavine here.

By David

October 31, 2007 12:19 AM | Link to this

At this point in his career, Tom Glavine IS Chuck James. Why pay the dollars? Go after more solid pitching via trade or free agency. I read somewhere that Houston would be willing to part with Roy Oswalt for the right price. THAT would be nice. Smoltz, Hudson, Oswalt and any other stiff you would want to put with them.

By Robert

October 31, 2007 1:01 AM | Link to this

Although he means alot to Atlanta Braves history and he’s a class act, Glavine’s best days are well behind him. He’s not a money pitcher any more. He proved that when he got shelled in the Mets last game which knocked them out of the postseason. I don’t think he’ll settle for $6-7 million as Jeff suggests; it’ll be a good bit more. Wiser, I think, to risk less on younger arms with greater long-term potential.

By Coach ( lets Go Braves In 2008

October 31, 2007 1:19 AM | Link to this

Tom Glavine = Playoffs. Enough said.

By Erock

October 31, 2007 3:56 AM | Link to this

I am a Glavine fan. I hope he returns, and I hope he does well. With the comfort of home, I think he will surpise us, and wake up the echoes of good times past.

By Scott

October 31, 2007 4:39 AM | Link to this

As long as we can somehow trade for Joe Blanton or Dan Haren, I’m all for it.

By John Clarke

October 31, 2007 6:47 AM | Link to this

I agree. Tommy is still bryyrt than any braves pitcher but Smoltz and Hudson. Plus, he brings a winning attitude to the Braves, something the have sorely missed since he and Greg left.

By ron

October 31, 2007 7:06 AM | Link to this

I attended my first Braves game this year since 1994, when Glavine was the spokesperson for the great fan screw. I probably will not go to another game. The prices are crazy, especially for food. I go to minor league games all the time, and I think I’ll stick to that.

By London Correspondent

October 31, 2007 7:23 AM | Link to this

Reason: Glavine - 13-8 WL, 200 IP in 34 games, 4.45 ERA. Chuck James - 11-10 WL, 161 IP in 30 games, 4.24 ERA. Glavine will cost at least $7 million, James the league minimum. So … for your $7 million you get 2 extra wins, and 2 extra outs per game. Signing Glavine is a no brainer - in that you need NO BRAIN to do it.

By drixie

October 31, 2007 7:55 AM | Link to this

Sign Glavine and waive all the idiot fans.

By scott

October 31, 2007 7:57 AM | Link to this

sign glavine first off he is a true brave yes he would make a great #3 or 4 pitcher and can bosst that pitching line up but the brave stillwould need a proven starter to have a winning team and where will they get it ?

By Grace

October 31, 2007 8:14 AM | Link to this

Come home, Tommy!

By Jim

October 31, 2007 8:21 AM | Link to this

Bring him back……he don’t have to be an ace, just a solid 3-4 starter. If we have had him last year we would have made the playoffs. Besides, I’m tired of being p** off at him. Bring him back and let him retire as a Brave.

By Mike

October 31, 2007 8:24 AM | Link to this

He’ll be back…..

By Elmer

October 31, 2007 8:25 AM | Link to this

Glavine is old; he wears out as the season moves on. Please, let’s take a pass on him.

By chbeyer

October 31, 2007 8:29 AM | Link to this

One of the comments referred to Glavine’s 1995 season and what a great pitcher he was. Get over it! Glavine is NOT the pitcher he was then and next year at 41, he won’t be the pitcher he was last season. All this Glavine talk is sentimental nonsense and memories of the days of Glavine, Smoltz and Maddux. Smoltz is still a dominating pitcher but Glavine is not and I predict will have a huge fall off in performance next season.

By Steve

October 31, 2007 8:37 AM | Link to this

If we’re going to endure all these “Game 6” comments, it seems only fair to remember another numbered game: Game 162 of the 2007 season. Let’s see: 7 earned runs in 1/3 of an inning, equals an ERA of 189.00!!

Nostalgia is a great thing, but if that’s all we’re going on, shouldn’t we ask Sid and Otis back as well?

By Ron

October 31, 2007 9:17 AM | Link to this

Why did the Braves, throughout the 90s, consistently lead the league in ERA? Not just The Big Three, but every pitcher who came through here seemed to resurrect his season as soon as he put on a Braves uniform (remember Burkett, Hammond, Holmes, etc?) No, it wasn’t Leo Mazzone. It was having Greg Maddux, John Smoltz, and - yes - Tom Glavine on that bench. I say bring him back. His cool demeanor, veteran leadership and knowledge of the game and how to pitch will be invaluable to the Braves young pitching staff.

By chc4

October 31, 2007 9:25 AM | Link to this

I simply don’t think Glav has anything left in the tank. If he did I’d love to see him back at the Ted. At this point he’s about like Chuck James so we may as well go with the younger guy.

By Jeff R

October 31, 2007 9:32 AM | Link to this

Let’s not forget that Glavine was running out of gas in the Mets’ stretch run last season, and he lost a critical game for the team.

Players, especially pitchers, over forty can experience significant declines in their physicial abilities and skills from just one season to the next. Glavine has always had midrange velocity as a control pitcher. If his velocity falls off just a little in 2008, he’ll be battered from pillar to post.

If Tommy is good for younger pitchers, hire him as a coach. I think Braves fans will be disappointed by Glavine’s return, especially when the team gets to September. Spend the money to acquire other good young arms.

By Nate

October 31, 2007 9:52 AM | Link to this

Why would anyone be worried about what Glavine did as a player rep 1994. Come on, give me a break. Glavine will come back to Atlanta for much less than market rate. Bringing him back at 6 or 7 million is a can’t lose situation. (How much were they paying Albie Lopez) . Why is everybody down on Chuck? Chuck is an important part of our future. With Smoltz, Hudson, Glavine and James holding down four spots we still have to find one or two more healthy and capable starters.

By Peter

October 31, 2007 9:52 AM | Link to this

Curt Shilling, is a reason NOT to sign Glavine…… he is a winner, not a whiner……. IF the Red Sox do not sign him, he is a leader with 3 count them World Series Rings.

Glavine is a greedy bum……he can be a coach as someone mentioned, but he WILL get Rocked this coming year…..

He is slow and getting slower…..

Yes we want the guy who gave up 7 runs, and got only 1 out in the Mets most important game last year…..

HAHAHA I don’t think so…….

Why are so many BLIND to the actual facts ?

His last 4 games last year were all losses, we need a guy who can pitch when it MATTERS, especially if all want a Championship, not another first round EXIT from the playoffs !!

By Peter

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

Curt Shilling, is a reason NOT to sign Glavine…… he is a winner, not a whiner……. IF the Red Sox do not sign him, he is a leader with 3 count them World Series Rings.

Glavine is a greedy bum……he can be a coach as someone mentioned, but he WILL get Rocked this coming year…..

He is slow and getting slower…..

Yes we want the guy who gave up 7 runs, and got only 1 out in the Mets most important game last year…..

HAHAHA I don’t think so…….

Why are so many BLIND to the actual facts ?

His last 4 games last year were all losses, we need a guy who can pitch when it MATTERS, especially if all want a Championship, not another first round EXIT from the playoffs !!

By David-ATL14

October 31, 2007 10:35 AM | Link to this

Spoton Schultz. See if bradley will let you rewrite his column. As correct as you are, his is equally incorrect.

By A Simple Man

October 31, 2007 10:35 AM | Link to this

The Braves should trade Chuck James, Chris Woodward and Corky Miller to the Twins for Johan Santana and Joe Nathan.

Of course, Santana will be a free agent following the 2008 season, but I bet he would be willing to accept a 5-year, $5 million contract to pitch in a happenin’ place like da ATL.

Come on, Braves, let’s get it done!

Yeah! Right on! Uh-huh!

By Brett

October 31, 2007 10:50 AM | Link to this

I hope I never see Glavine in a Braves uniform again. He’s washed up…look at his last few games in a Mets uni…and I also would say Hampton is finished. I don’t understand why the Braves pulled the trigger on the deal they just made for Renteria. They should have approached the Astros and offered him to them for Oswalt. I can see it now…next year’s rotation…Smoltz, Hudson, Glavine, Hampton and a AA pitcher from Detroit. Looks like ‘07 again to me. Getting rid of Renteria is only economics…bringing back Glavine is only sentimental. I do not like either move.

By EBJ

October 31, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this

I say bring Glavine back but at a low salary. I think he will be so happy to be back in Atlanta that money will not be a factor. Spend the money on youth. However youth must earn their way. That means incentives will make the difference for salary increase. This thinking should be across the board. Trust me, this thinking is the key to winning.

By EBJ

October 31, 2007 10:56 AM | Link to this

I say bring Glavine back but at a low salary. I think he will be so happy to be back in Atlanta that money will not be a factor. Spend the money on youth. However youth must earn their way. That means incentives will make the difference for salary increase. This thinking should be across the board. Trust me, this thinking is the key to winning.

By Gary

October 31, 2007 11:01 AM | Link to this

Glavine is done. Don’t waste money on somebody that that old and yes, he has declined in production each year since leaving. Use the money to keep Tex. There is more potential in Jo-Jo and the new guy from Detroit for next year than in Glavine. I am not mad that he took the money and ran. Everybody has done it or will do it except Chipper. Either we gave away an all star shortstop for nothing or give the guy a chance. His era last year as a first year pitcher was not much different from Glavine. If the Braves bring back Glavine, Cox will pitch him every fifth day regardless of how bad he is since he is loyal to the old guys no matter how bad they slip.

By Gary

October 31, 2007 11:01 AM | Link to this

Glavine is done. Don’t waste money on somebody that that old and yes, he has declined in production each year since leaving. Use the money to keep Tex. There is more potential in Jo-Jo and the new guy from Detroit for next year than in Glavine. I am not mad that he took the money and ran. Everybody has done it or will do it except Chipper. Either we gave away an all star shortstop for nothing or give the guy a chance. His era last year as a first year pitcher was not much different from Glavine. If the Braves bring back Glavine, Cox will pitch him every fifth day regardless of how bad he is since he is loyal to the old guys no matter how bad they slip.

By Forrest Gump

October 31, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

I would like to see Glavin return. He definitely could contribute, and it would be nice to see him in a Braves’ uniform again. In fact, I will show up for his first start as a prodigal’s son.

By presdog

October 31, 2007 11:30 AM | Link to this

Glavine is a great guy and a future member of the Hall of Fame. He is nearing the end of his career but probably would be a worthy no. 4 or 5 starter. It would be nice to see him finish his career as a Brave. At 42, considering his style of pitching, his ERA likely will not be far off of his career average. I would sign him if the price tag is within reason.

By Bo

October 31, 2007 11:30 AM | Link to this

I just don’t believe that Frank Wren is stupid enought to bring Glavine back and at the same time say he’s building for future. Yes, I know Bobby Cox would bring TG back because he was one of the good old boys. He!! with good old boys we need Good young and middle age vets to put some new life in a old body. Yea, I rather have “Curt” because he wins when you have to. Glavine cost the Mets when they needed him most. He will do the same with Braves, BC will leave him in till he’s 6 or 7 runs behind in first 2 innings.What a Thrill . The Mets don’t want him back that should tell you something. Mr Wren’s first trade tells you the Braves are rebuilding not look for old X-Braves because they used to be good. How many Fans will Glavine put in the stands????Robert had the best blog so far, I agree with him

By jarvis

October 31, 2007 11:42 AM | Link to this

Did someone really say Curt Shilling isn’t a whiner? A winner definately. A whiner just as certainly. That guy is the biggest complainer in the game.

Also, I miss the Glav. He’s certainly better than anything we had from 3 to 5 in our rotation last year.

By Jimbo

October 31, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

I’d rather have Mark Davies back than Glavine. At least Davies can get better but Glavine on the way down.

By Bob

October 31, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this

Bring Glavie back and put James in the bullpen. Another great pitcher that Atlanta had “Bedrock” could not go past 70 pitches or the 5th inning and they put him in the bullpen where he flourished and had a great career. We traded him to the Phillies for starting pitchers.

By Rox

October 31, 2007 12:04 PM | Link to this

Why would the Braves want to sign a washed up pitcher like Glavin? He could not win with with Mets why would you think it would be any different now with Braves. Find some other younger less exspensive pitcher and spend the savings on other needs.

By Brave Fan

October 31, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this

Bring Tommy back, He will be an excellent 3 or 4 and he still has a year or two left in the tank.

I Hope Glavine can Retire as a Brave!

But 1st let him retire a few more opposing batters for the Bravos.

By RUBE

October 31, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

I’m all for Glavine returning to the Braves, but we need to focus on the future. The only problem is that we traded away most of our future. Deals were made for 60 day ren-a-players at the expense of our future. Take a moment to relect on all the pitching prospects that we have traded away in the last 6 years!! For an organization that prides itself on pitching, why are we now scrambling to find pitching. Everytime we have a pitching prospect that is labeled untradable, we then turn around and trade him for a rent-a-player. Rather than trading away our prospects we should be aquiring them. I’m all for rebuilding. We need to change the WIN IT NOW mind set. Enough crying about the past, it is time to focus on the future and the future is PITCHING! PITCHING! PITCHING!

By ChampDawg

October 31, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

There are enough aging arms on this Braves staff already— Smoltz, Hudson, Hampton, etc. We don’t need another. Take the money and go after younger but proven talent. BTW, I hope we eventually get more from that Renteria deal by way of the salary saved. What a dumb-@$$ move that was!

By ChampDawg

October 31, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this

Re: Frank Wren— anyone stupid enough to trade Renteria is also stupid enough to go after Glavine.

By bravesfanatic

October 31, 2007 12:52 PM | Link to this

great points jeff especially the fact that glavine would be a no.3 starter for us and if we get 14 wins out of him which we should along with the 16 or 17 we would get out of smoltz and hudson that right there will bring us back to the top of the NL east and be one of the best 1-2-3 punches in the majors

By OLD NEWS

October 31, 2007 1:16 PM | Link to this

I don’t want the greedy bas** back. What was gained by going to METS? A few more capital gains? Peanuts to these guys. AND the real reason we don’t want him back : WE DON’T HAVE A CENTERFIELDER!!!!! We better get somebody who can fly and jump the fence because this pitching staff w/or without McGreedy er..I mean Glavin….. is going to continue to be the rocket launchers they have been for 3 yrs. ANDRUW sucked at the bat but saved us many a run this year. If U all think KJ is the answer in Center — then I’m deeply concerned for U.

By Kentavo

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

I say Schilling - the Braves are one of the teams he has officially okayed and he only wants a one-year deal. Do it Frank Wren, do it!!!!!!!!!!

By Gary

October 31, 2007 1:32 PM | Link to this

I like Glavine too but I can’t help but think we could get a good quality young pitcher with what we have to spend on Glavine, even if it is 6 or 7 million. That’s still a lot of money and we still aren’t sure if he has enough left to make it through a season. I disagree that there is no downside. I still like the idea of signing him for less than the 6 or 7 million, maybe 5 at the most. But load the contract with generous incentives because if he does have a great season, he’ll be drawing fans to the park and he should be rewarded. If he’s a bust, we’re only out the 5 mill. But really, we should be looking toward the future, not living in the past.

By Chas

October 31, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

I think it makes sense to bring back Glavine. He will probably get 10-15 wins and he will help Chuck James become a better pitcher. You see what Glavine did with Damian Moss when he was here. I would much rather have Glavine over Curt Schilling because Schilling was hurt for a while this past year and Glavine has never really had any injury problems. It will probably rejuvenate Glavine playing with Smoltz and Bobby Cox again. There will be a lot less pressure in Atlanta than there was in New York. So sign Glavine to a one year deal worth 6-8 million and try and get another pitch through trade, because you can never have enough pitching.

By Stuart

October 31, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this

Glavine makes since as a one/two year stop gap. Stick him between Huddy and Smoltz, and he could tudor Chuck James and eat innings. There are no good young pitchers out there at that the price the bravos want to pay. If Glav goes 14-9 with 200 innings he would be a god send in the rotation. Now he is not a long term solution, but this team is good enough to win next year, plus Glav would give Reyes and the new guy some more time to learn in AAA or as the fifth SP.

By Stuart

October 31, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this

Glavine makes since as a one/two year stop gap. Stick him between Huddy and Smoltz, and he could tudor Chuck James and eat innings. There are no good young pitchers out there at that the price the bravos want to pay. If Glav goes 14-9 with 200 innings he would be a god send in the rotation. Now he is not a long term solution, but this team is good enough to win next year, plus Glav would give Reyes and the new guy some more time to learn in AAA or as the fifth SP. Schill makes sense too.

By BamaBrave

October 31, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

“get over it”??!!??

Of course the SOB didn’t set the player’s strike agenda. That’s not the point. He reveled in his role as player mouthpiece during the strike…he was never more stoked and energized as a public figure than in those days. So don’t give me the Forgive and Forget rubbish.

If we do sign him, I’ll be just as mercenary as a fan as he is as a player. If he does well, I’ll cheer. If he stinks - which I fear - I’ll boo him like he’s Michael Vick, Scott Boras, and Hannibal Lecter rolled into one.

By DC Bravesfan

October 31, 2007 1:58 PM | Link to this

Yep, it’s too bad we didn’t sign him last year. Not only because in hindsight, he would have been a solid No. 3 starter and we would won the East and made the playoffs, but he could have pitched that 300 win in the ATL, where it should have been.

By DonCoburleone

October 31, 2007 2:25 PM | Link to this

I agree Glavine MUST be resigned. The way I look at it, Glavine would basically be replacing Redman, Carlyle, Reyes and Cormier… Those 4 pitchers combined to go 12-19 with a 6.44 ERA over 225IP. Glavine last year went 13-8 with a 4.45 ERA over 201IP… That difference alone is worth 5 wins on the season at least!

By Old Lefty

October 31, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this

With Glavine sitting next to him on the bench, Chuckie James starts to look like a young Steve Carlton.

By Corey

October 31, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

I’d like to see Glavine retire as a Brave. However, in my opinion, there are 5 better possible free agent alternatives at starting pitcher: 1) Greg Maddux, 2) Andy Pettitte, 3) Carlos Silva 4) Curt Schilling, 5) Paul Byrd.

By Old Lefty

October 31, 2007 2:40 PM | Link to this

BamaBrave Now you’re scarin’ me ….. Vick, Boras, Lecter …. mommmmeeeeeee. I sure hope Glav does what you want him to.

Relax, everybody. I hated him for the union bullsh__ at least as much as anybody. Don’t make me say it … hey, it ain’t just a game, it’s a bus…. ugh, I can’t.

Wake up and smell the wins and mentoring … welcome home, you prodigal punk. We always loved ya … right. Jus’ shut up and get out there and PITCH.

And hey, HEY, don’t forget Spahnnie’s watchin’ …

By richbrave

October 31, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

I’ve been so-o-o-o wrong about Glavine so many times I’ve decided a take on his future is just a guess. When he left Richmond for Atlanta in 1987, I thought - cripes, this kid has no power game - he’ll be back in two weeks. So-o-o 300+ major-league wins later I’m eating humble pie and realize Tommy’s got something inside I couldn’t see from the outside. Should he return to Atlanta IF they’ll have him? Based on his last start melt-down with the Mets ABSOLUTELY not. But the guy’s reinvented himself so many times, I’m not so sure a last waltz with the Braves might not be good for both. Just guessing of course.

By Tomas

October 31, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this

Glavine is done he is not gonna give 14 wins next season. He is 41, and at the end of the season he showed what was going to happen next season. It wasn’t shoulder fatigue, he is just a slow throwing lefthander which gets hit hard if he makes a minimun location mistake. Look Glavine is similar to pitchers like Moyer, Chuck James, Mark Redman, and Jeff Francis. They rely on changing speeds, and perfect location. I don’t like those kinds of pitchers, they get hit hard most of the time. Reality is there is no pitcher on the market that truly be worth of signing. For me the best choice is Carlos Silva, his 28, throws a good 93mph fastball, good change up, and a good breaking ball. He had 20 quality starts out of 33, and had a 4.19ERA better than Glavine, and had more quality starts than Chuck James. I think that he is a much better choice than the old Glavine. Just pray for Frank Wren to make the right decision

By Tomas

October 31, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

For me this needs to be next years starting rotation:

• SP Tim Hudson
• SP John Smoltz
• SP Carlos Silva
• SP Chuck James / Mike Hampton
• SP Jo Jo Reyes / Jeff Bennet

No Buddy Carlyle or Lance Cormier, or Oscar Villareal please.

By Larry

October 31, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

As a 19 year season ticket holder (customer) I have paid for the right to say: NO! Absolutely NO!

Some can spin this any way they chose but the bottom line is the Braves Organization created the platform for Tom Glavine to develop in the minors, struggle his first few seasons in the majors, and then ultimately earn tens of millions of dollars over about 15 seasons. How did he express his gratitude? He chose to sign with the Mets for just a few million more at the cost of his team, his fans, and more importantly, his family. And yes, I know that Glavine also contributed to his company in his career.

Here’s the real question in relative terms: If you were employed by a company say, for example, 15-20 years here in Atlanta and one of your company’s chief competitors offered you a position for about 10-15% more money to move to New York and be without your souse and children (especially during those vital growth and development years when BOTH parents are optimal) from February to September or October for the next 3 or 4 years would you accept this offer and leave your fellow company employees, their customers and your family behind? Glavine did!

You can take the Tom Glavine’s. I’ll take the Tony Gwynn’s and Craig Biggio’s of the world—those who still place a higher loyalty to their employers and customers (fans) and the willingness to sacrifice a few less dollars for their fans, teammates and family! They have the principles that I’ll gladly pay to watch and cheer for!

By #1 Braves Fan

October 31, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

For those of you sentimental morons that want Glavine back to “Bring back the good old days” let’s take a look at how much we can count on Tommy when it matters, in the playoffs and in a playoff type atmosphere

2007 ERA Sept/Oct 6.10 last 28 days 7.20 last 14 days 14.81 last 7 days 189.00

    ERA IP

1st half 4.36 115.2
2nd half 4.57 84.2

2006 1st half 3.48 119 2nd half 4.33 79

In fairness to Glav his numbers in the 2006 playoffs were very good.

2002 1st half 2.27 130.2 2nd half 3.93 94

Let’s not forget the last two games Glavine pitched for the Braves 2002 ALDS ERA IP Game 1 10.80 5 Game 4 15.26 2.2

The bottom line is that Tom Glavine is not the same pitcher any more and he wears down just when we need him the most!!!!!

PLEASE….PLEASE don’t bring him back

By marvin drazin

October 31, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

check glavine out in spring training then decide

By Randy Calhoun

October 31, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this

Yes for Tom Glavine back in Atlanta. If I remember correctly Phil Niekro was allowed to pitch his final game in Atlanta which made me very proud. Maybe some of you all don’t remember the days when the Braves were on the verge of losing 100 games every year. Well I do because I am a true Braves fan. The Braves started winning with Glavine, Smoltz, Avery and others including the signing of Maddux. If you are a true Braves fan you would want Glavine back to finish out his career in Atlanta and maybe he would get the appreciation he deserves. I think Smoltz would really be happy too.

By Mike Jorgensen

October 31, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this

London Correspondent,

Your argument sounds good for a second, but you overlooked some pretty major intangibles. Sure, Chuck James can give you 11 wins and a 4+ ERA for a lot less than the league minimum… but, you fail to take into account that as it stands, James’ potential may not be realizable. We don’t just want another decent season out of James this year; we want him to develop as a starter. Adding a future HOF veteran who has been there/done that- and can, therefore, assist the development of younger starters- may be precisely what James needs to push his game to the next level for many years to come.

By #1 Brave Fan

October 31, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this

Let’s try this again and hope the formatting doesn’t get messed up

For those of you sentimental morons that want Glavine back to “Bring back the good old days” let’s take a look at how much we can count on Tommy when it matters, in the playoffs and in a playoff type atmosphere

2007 ERA Sept/Oct 6.10 last 28 days 7.20 last 14 days 14.81 last 7 days 189.00

       ERA    IP

1st half 4.36 115.2 2nd half 4.57 84.2

2006 1st half 3.48 119 2nd half 4.33 79

In fairness to Glav his numbers in the 2006 playoffs were very good.

2002 1st half 2.27 130.2 2nd half 3.93 94

Let’s not forget the last two games Glavine pitched for the Braves 2002 ALDS ERA IP Game 1 10.80 5 Game 4 15.26 2.2

The bottom line is that Tom Glavine is not the same pitcher any more and he wears down just when we need him the most!!!!!

PLEASE….PLEASE don’t bring him back

By Bob Horner

October 31, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

Tommy “I can’t take 40 million because my family needs 50 million to be SECURE so I’m going to sign with the Mets” Glavine can pitch his last game for the Braves, and have his little feel-good moment for his families’ sake, when he signs for $1 per game. Otherwise this fan doesn’t forget. You made your bed Tommy, retire in it. Have fun water skiing behind that second yacht, I still WORK for the money I spend.

By Mike Jorgensen

October 31, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this

Nobody here would deny that Glavine isn’t the same pitcher any more. That’s not the issue. The bigger issue is, we can count on him for 12-15 wins- and that’s a rarity in an offseason with a very, very thin free agent market for starting pitching. Add that to his veteran presence and potential influence on the younger starts (Reyes, James, et al), and it’s pretty clear that we should spend the money on him for a 1-year contract.

By Allen

October 31, 2007 4:44 PM | Link to this

A question to the Glavine-haters: How many of you found Maddux despicable when he left the Cubs for more money?

By #1 Braves Fan

October 31, 2007 5:12 PM | Link to this

Can anyone say Curt Schilling!!!! He is available and even his worst year still proved to be a big game pitcher.

Forget Glavine he is too old to help when we need him the most

By Mike Jorgensen

October 31, 2007 5:23 PM | Link to this

Glavine is a better pickup than Schilling. Look at win totals for the last 3 years… 13, 15, 13 for Glavine; 8, 15, 9 for Schilling. Schilling is a good pitcher when he’s on, but his durability and reliability make him way more of a question mark than Glavine.

By Mike Jorgensen

October 31, 2007 5:40 PM | Link to this

Schilling has missed time do to injuries in 2 of the last 3 (and 3 of the last 5) years. Glavine has missed 0 or 1 starts do to injuries in the last 20 seasons. True, Schilling has definitely shown himself to be a big-game pitcher. No doubt about that. I’ll take Schilling in October, but if we’re talking about a 162 game season I sign Tom six days a week and twice on Sundays. The odds are stacked against a healthy Schilling… that’s a risk the Braves can’t afford to take.

By tony

October 31, 2007 5:56 PM | Link to this

SIGN TOM GLAVINE IMMEDIATELY!!

By Here We Go Again!

October 31, 2007 8:19 PM | Link to this

HE IS A TRADER! RESIGN WITH THE MUTS - PLEASE!!!!

By Mike Jorgensen

October 31, 2007 8:37 PM | Link to this

“Trader”… also known as “traitor.” Thank you for your participation.

By JERRY EAKES

October 31, 2007 9:16 PM | Link to this

Bring Tommy back pleaseeeee

By GK

October 31, 2007 9:21 PM | Link to this

I can think of 7 million better ways to spend $7 million.

By Friend

October 31, 2007 10:04 PM | Link to this

Glavine a good guy, so what good guys don’t win for you. I want Glavine to finish as a Brave. If Glavine wanted to finish as a Brave he should have never left., and who cares where he finishes. We want to win! not please old players who want to come back to please old Mgr.

By Patrick

October 31, 2007 11:51 PM | Link to this

With losing the salary of Andruw and Renteria along with Woodward the Braves have freed up close to 30 million. The Braves could sign both Glavine and Schilling at full price ( what they made this season) and have money to spare to replenish the bench. Could you imagine having to face Schilling, Smoltz, Hudson, and Glavine in a best of 5?