Sports Columnists

By Chris

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

Willie Harris in right?! Are you out of your mind?!

By Wayne in Utah

October 30, 2007 10:33 PM | Link to this

I can’t see taking one of the best arms out of right, and putting him in center, where his arm would be minimized.

Give Lillibridge and Schafer a shot in the spring, and punt if neither makes it (punt to Cory Sullivan or someone like him).

As for Harris and Prado, I really think you are dreaming. Neither will be on the team next year, unless KJ gets dealt.

Just one man’s opinion.

By john

October 30, 2007 10:38 PM | Link to this

Mark it sounds like all you are looking for is just get through next year and not contend. I think that either Hunter or Rowand could be had for 5 year/50 million.

By rmf

October 30, 2007 10:43 PM | Link to this

One problem with this proposal —- Frenchy shot it down on XM yesterday, said it was not going to happen and said he wanted to stay in right.

I love Willie, but he is not an everyday player.

We do need a stopgap to get to the young talent coming up.

By Ron Roberts

October 30, 2007 10:49 PM | Link to this

A N Y B O D Y other than another low batting average and multi-million dollar waste, like, oh, I don’t know… Mike Cameron.

I’m sick of reading that he’s a veteran CF who lives in Atlanta and could be “had” for less than $10 million.

If the Braves sign him to anything above the $3-4 million range, they’re ones being “had.”

Mark, I, too, thought if Francoeur’s got such a good arm, and obviously possesses adequate-to-good speed, that he could be a viable CF option.

But if they’re hell-bent on spending millions to fill CF< Mike freaking Cameron is not the answer if the Braves want to consider themselves a World Series contender.

By The Grinch

October 30, 2007 10:49 PM | Link to this

I do think Francouer could play a decent CF, though it’s nice to have his arm in right. Signing Torii Hunter would be asinine unless our payroll suddenly gets bumped up to about 120 mil. Even then, it should go to more pitching. Rowand would be nice if affordable. Cameron wouldn’t be sufficiently better than what we have in the minors to warrant the pay increase. Pitching, pitching, pitching.

By Reasonator

October 30, 2007 10:53 PM | Link to this

Mike Cameron is terrible, Hunter is too old and Rowand is too fragile (he’s a gamer like Griffey used to be, but who wants a gamer who only plays 100 games?)

The real solution is to move Kelly Johnson to center, and pick up a second baseman. Even if Kelly doesn’t compare to Andruw in terms of fielding center, the Braves can more than make up for it by finding a proven defensive stopper at second base. It will even out.

I’m sure a solid second baseman, even without a power bat, would be much easier (and cheaper) to come by than a good center fielder. With Tex around, we don’t need another home run bat in the lineup, just someone with decent OBP to score runs when the big hits come.

By Robert S

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

The only player the Braves should go for in centerfield if they decide to go outside the organization is Aaron Rowand. He’s the youngest and likely the best fit.

Mike Cameron is Andruw Jones Part Deux. Meaning great defense, grounding into 20+ double plays a season, and high strikeout totals.

Despite Torii Hunter’s overtures to either D.C. or Atlanta, he may take too high a chunk of payroll.

Like everyone else says, we need pitching first.

By Steve Avery

October 30, 2007 11:04 PM | Link to this

Cameron is terrible. Keep Francoeur in right. Schaefer won’t really be ready for full-time until 09. We need another outfielder, if you ask me. Hunter would be a good fit, although he is not a superstar and maybe not worth the money that it will take. Same with Rowand. We need someone with speed, so that we have at least two legit base-stealing threats.

By Braves Fan 79

October 30, 2007 11:23 PM | Link to this

I wouldnt trust Cameron. Not for over 3 or 4 mill a year. Now Rowand on the other hand would be GREAT..if for the right price! I say we bring up a young CF from the minors and see how he does. And use that $$ to lock up Tex and sign Glavine. And maybe make shure soriano and our other quality relievers stay Braves. I really wish we could get another #1 starter…like a Holliday or a Haren. But dont see that happening..

By Pete Falcone

October 30, 2007 11:28 PM | Link to this

Ditto to others- pitching must be our priority. In response to John’s post above: my opinion is that we CAN contend with Francoeur in center in ‘08. Who knows exactly what will follow in 2009 and after… but with Schaefer and Gorkys Hernandez down on the farm, I am willing to take the risk that our long-term answer at CF is currently a part of our organization. So, Frank Wren, PLEASE DO NOT SIGN Hunter, Cameron, or Rowand. Get out there and get us some starting pitching instead. As for the third OF spot next year (after Francouer and Diaz), my vote is for KJ.

As for the hole that would leave at 2B: does anyone have a status update on Aybar?

By TBurns

October 30, 2007 11:29 PM | Link to this

Why not give Gregor Blanco one long look in CF - he fits the old-school mold of an OBP/stolen base threat and his contract would be more than perfect with the current restraints.

By TROTTINGHOMETUDD

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

BRADLEY,

LET D.O.B. WRITE ABOUT THE BRAVES.

YOU GO DO WHAT EVER IT IS YOU DO BEST.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

By Heather

October 30, 2007 11:53 PM | Link to this

pwn3d…

By Al

October 31, 2007 12:05 AM | Link to this

FYI.

I saw Martin Prado play right fielder for the Aragua Tigres in Venezuela (winter ball) last week. It should be no coincidence as he has always played in the infield for that team. I believe he has the mission to prepare for the position.

By David

October 31, 2007 12:07 AM | Link to this

Try this one on for size. Say the Braves don’t want to spend big dollars for a free agent center fielder. I for one think if they aren’t going to get Aaron Rowand or Torii Hunter, don’t spend the money at all. If that be the case, why not move Kelly Johnson to center, put Martin Prado at second and go after a couple top flight pitchers. I’m not a strong proponent of any of the pitching candidates that the Braves have in house or Tom Glavine.

By James

October 31, 2007 12:39 AM | Link to this

We need to give one of our young centerfielders in the minors a shot. There is no reason to pay anywhere near 10 million for a washed up Mike Cameron (who was a good player in his day). Also, Hudson, Smoltz, Glavine and Hampton as our starting 4, who cares who the fifth starter will be? It is a rotation that I believe could easily last 2 years. Hampton also should resign after next season with us for a real real bargain price for all that we have gone through with him the last few years. Also, for the guy asking earlier, Aybar is gone, we cut him early last season (and good ridance, I wish we still had Betemit, was the dumbest trade we ever made).

By Boom

October 31, 2007 12:46 AM | Link to this

THIS IS WHAT WE DO EVERYONE- First of all, we move K. Johnson back to left field where he is a solid bat and fielder. That leaves 2nd base open. B. Lillibridge is ready for the show. We put Lillibridge at 2nd or SS and bat him #1 leadoff. Y. Escobar can also play 2nd or SS and take Renteria’s spot in the 2 hole. Big Hoss at 3rd base batting 3rd. Tex. batting fourth at 1st base. McCann, a great catcher batting fifth. Frenchy batting sixth staying in right with his huge arm. K. Johnson would play left as I said before and bat eighth. WHAT DOES THAT LEAVE OPEN==CF RIGHT. We need a fill gap centerfielder for about 2 years. IAM HEARING ALOT OF BAD ABOUT M. CAMERON BUT HE WOULD BE THE BEST FILL FOR THE MONEY. He will bat .260 with 20 homers and 80 RBI’s and steal 20. He is also a good defensive CF. AT THE SAME TIME WE COULD GET HIM FOR A DECENT PRICE UNLIKE ROWAND OR HUNTER.
You bat Cameron 7th and put him in center and let him play for 2 years till Schaefer and Gorkys are ready for the show. We would be good offensively and defensively and have the one thing we lacked last year at the TOP OF THE ORDER AND BOTTOM OF THE ORDER—SPEED. Lillibridge and Escobar at the top and Cameron and Johnson at the bottom. Four guys that can swipe a bag. I would leave M. Diaz in the super reserve role as I think he is best suited for that. THERE IS YOUR LINE-UP—EASY.

NOW PITCHING— 1-John Smoltz 2.Tim Hudson 3.TOM GLAVINE-a good #3 who eats innings, wants to finish in the ATL., and we can get for a pretty good bargain compared to most pitchers-we have to sign him—a no brainer for the way he can still pitch and what we will pay him. 4.Chuck James-a much better pitcher in the 4 spot. 5.J. Jurrjens-this kid can pitch-I watch him literally shut down the Indians this year.

JoJo Reyes and M. Hampton are up in the air. JoJo is the future for sure and could prove me wrong—think he needs a little more seasoning or he could be in bullpen to start year-either way a great option. M. Hampton—huh huh who knows. If there is on positive he could add to our depth at SP if he makes it back.

Bullpen-will be good: Closer-R. Soriano 8th-M. Gonzalez when he returns in May or June. M. Acosta- a great arm. J. Devine- another great arm. P. Moylan- some of the best #’s in the pen last year. R. Ring—a good situational lefthander. That is six good arms in the bullpen.

IAM HEARING ALOT OF COMPLAING BUT IF ALL THIS HAPPENS THE BRAVOS HAVE THE MAKING OF A PRETTY SOLID TEAM IN 08 EVERYONE.

By Najeh Davenpoop

October 31, 2007 1:03 AM | Link to this

I like Francoeur, but I gotta say, his speed is overrated by EVERYONE. He may have good top speed but he accelerates really slow, and when you have to cover all that ground in center field that’s a big disadvantage. Yeah, his arm is good, but if anything that’s more of a reason to keep him in right field. Spend the necessary money to get a CF, and who knows, if Blanco or Schafer becomes a viable option by 2009, they can deal the free agent signee for pitching the same way they just did with Renteria.

By mike

October 31, 2007 1:41 AM | Link to this

I agree that Francoeur has good speed but a slow first step but that shouldnt hinder him too bad for a one year project in center. What no one has talked about so far is Brandon Jones who appears to be ready. Why not Have Diaz in Left, Francoeur in Center, and Brandon Jones in Right. And have Gregor Blanco as a late inning Defensive replacement/4th outfielder. Then in 09 Frenchy goes back to right and Schaeffer and the tigers prospect take over CF and Lf permamently. It wont really hurt the braves to have francoeur in cf for a year. As good as Andruw is in center it was apparent that he did lose a step last year and that his arm is not very good anymore. Francoeur would be a good Temporary fix. I really hope they don’t sign cameron to a two year 8to 10 million dollar deal which I feel is coming. They need pitching. Bring Glavine back and try to use the farm system to steal a pitcher the caliber of Dan Haren or Ian Snell if not a rotation of Smoltz, Hudson, Glavine, Hampton, Jurrjen/CJames/Jojo Reyes would do just fine

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

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

Francoeur has a cannon for an arm , but we all know that. He could play CF if needed but RF suits him just fine. Basically , robbing Peter to pay Paul ultimately solves nothing. I still think that from a financial and defensive standpoint , Coco Crisp is the stopgap answer. The play of Jacoby Ellsbury has made him expendable and the Braves have a surplus of pitching , which the Red Sox will need due to the free agency of Schilling , Wakefield and Tavarez (combined for 89 starts). Crisp is 27 , switch hits , is already under contract through 2009 or 2010(team option). Crisp would cost 4.75 million for 2008 and 5.75 million in 2009 with a team option for 2010 worth 8 million. His speed , switch hitting , defense and base running would enhance both the offense and defense.

By mr baseball

October 31, 2007 3:01 AM | Link to this

By all means, the Braves should spend every available dime on pitching. How about Kris Benson? Maybe Jaret Wright? Carl Pavano? Matt Clement? Kerry Wood? Russ Ortiz is available. Bruce Chen, too. They could bring back Odalis Perez or Horacio Ramirez along with Glavine.

Not good enough. Then let’s make a deal. Thorman, Prado, Devine & Cormier to the Twins for Santana. 4 for 1. How could they turn that down? Heck, the Braves could even throw in Tyler Yates or Willie Harris if 4 is not enough.

Wait, we can’t trade Harris. According to Mark Bradley, he could be the starting RF if Francouer moves to center. Yeah, right. Not sure where all the Cameron hating is coming from, but his detractors know about as much about baseball as does Mr. Bradley. Cameron will hit 20-plus homers, drive in 80-90 runs out of the 7 hole in the batting order, will steal 20-25 bases and hit in the clutch. All that at maybe 60 percent of the salary consumed by Andruw. Yeah, he’s terrible all right. If the only two stats you care about are batting average and strikeouts, he stinks. Just like Ryan Howard.

Baseball fans in Atlanta are not exactly getting expert analysis from the AJC columnists, but given the evident lack of knowledge by many on the blogs, they’re getting pretty much what they deserve.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008)

October 31, 2007 4:03 AM | Link to this

Speaking of a lack of knowledge. Mike Cameron is a strike out machine(160) who has lost a step , he is 34 and on the downside of his career. Cameron had 365 put outs in 148 games with 5 errors. Andruw Jones had 396 put outs in 154 games with 2 errors. Guess who outplayed both of them in the field ? Thats right genius , the answer is Coco Crisp. The Red Sox center fielder had 408 put outs in 144 games with 1 single error. Crisp is obviously the best defender of the three and the youngest (27). The Braves need somebody who can play defense , not to mention the fact that Crisp is a switch hitter who stole 28 bases and had a better OBP , more hits(141) and a higher batting .AVG than both A.J and Cameron. Not to mention the financial implications. Crisp is under contract for 4.75 million in 2008 , Cameron will cost 7 to 8 million and only God knows what A.J will be paid. Glad I could educate the ignorant , class dismissed.

By dragrace79

October 31, 2007 4:19 AM | Link to this

willie harris in right? seriously? seriously? wow…

By AmstyJ

October 31, 2007 6:19 AM | Link to this

Has anyone seen Otis “My Man” Nixon? He could be had for cheap!

By to Mr Baseball

October 31, 2007 6:30 AM | Link to this

Quote: Thorman, Prado, Devine & Cormier to the Twins for Santana. 4 for 1. How could they turn that down? Heck, the Braves could even throw in Tyler Yates or Willie Harris if 4 is not enough.

Are you serious? This is the dumbest idea I’ve ever heard. You seriously think a team would give up baseball’s best arm for 4 scraps? If people really did this, there would only be one or two good teams in baseball becasue they would just constantly send out their garbage for the best guys. THIS is why some people are GM’s and most people are fans. Leave the job to the guys who have a clue what they are doing!

By Keith

October 31, 2007 6:42 AM | Link to this

Well, WEll, Well HMMM I think we sign A-Rod and Glavine. That will give us a strong pitching and batting line-up. Batting First CF-K Johnson, SS Y Eskobar, 2B C Jones, 3B A Rod, 1B Texiara, C McCAnn, RF J Francour, LF M Diaz, Pitcher

NOW PITCHING— 1-John Smoltz 2.Tim Hudson 3.TOM GLAVINE-a good #3 4.Chuck James 5. Hampton or Reyes

Bullpen-: Closer-R. Soriano 8th-M. Gonzalez when he returns in May or June. M. Acosta- J. Devine- P. Moylan-. R. Ring. Good start to the bullpen, some others there to compete in the Spring

Another Thought: No A-Rod, Mike Lowell.

Can Chipper play second, just a thought.

By benchguy

October 31, 2007 7:54 AM | Link to this

James you don’t know what you are talking about Aybar was not cut he was suspended and will be at ST with the Braves… BG

By mesmo

October 31, 2007 8:08 AM | Link to this

One important consideration is who will play the 40-50 games at third base when Chipper is unavailable? Escobar filled in nicely last year but now he is the shortstop. As for center,the new arrival,Hernandez, is a genuine leadoff hitter who steals bases. Looks to me like he and Schaeffer will battle it out for center. If either can leadoff and hit .270/.380 OBP we will be in good shape. I would leave Franceour in right. (Don’t forget that he is rapidly approaching free agency and will cost a bundle to retain.) Diaz is a lock in left with Willie as the back-up guy.

By Greg

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

Arizona has four CFs in Byrnes, Young, Upton and Gonzales (AAA). If we sign Glavine and think Reyes and Jurrjens are ready, send CJames and his 5IP/start to Arizona for a CF. Send Thorman along, too.

By Mike

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

Cameron sucks.

Aybar was not cut.

And Chipper at second?

Geez………..

By chuck

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

Yeah Mr. Baseball, almost as dumb as comparing Mike Cameron to Ryan Howard.

By bullwinkel

October 31, 2007 8:33 AM | Link to this

I keep telling you…… Marcus Giles is available.

By Elmer

October 31, 2007 8:36 AM | Link to this

Kelly J. in left, Prado @ 2nd, Escobar SS, JF in center. Problems solved.

By Peter Gammons

October 31, 2007 8:38 AM | Link to this

Rocco Baldelli could be had for some minor leaguers…he has a great contract for the next several years..and should be completely healthy soon…plus his stock is down right now due to his recent injuries and Tampa bay is stacked with young outfielders….just my two cents…

By jack

October 31, 2007 9:01 AM | Link to this

KJ to center, Escobar SS, Lillibridge 2B, Prado/Aybar utility. Use $$$$$$$$ to sign Tex to L-O-N-G TERM contract and try to find at least one more starter in rotation.

By lin

October 31, 2007 9:03 AM | Link to this

gee guys was already said jf is staying in right field.course like anything else that can change by opening day like everything else does.kj i say trade him with few others. i really dont think need go after mg bring back that big mistake.problem braves is they sign old guys for one year deals that needs stop and they got enough talent in their farm boys to bring them up.give them chance to redue the braves but problem is all owners and big shots see is trying get back to first place.sure we want it but let team develop the right way first and stop being in a rush.let bobby retire end 2008 we need fresh ideas i like bobby but like yankees be wise takes time rebuild to where you once was.learn not to repeat same mistakes every year

By Epinephrine

October 31, 2007 9:06 AM | Link to this

Willie Harris or Kelly Johnson in right? Kelly has no arm thanks to TJ surgery. The last thing we need is another strain on it. Willie Harris is mediocre, period. He got lucky, and then his lack of talent caught up with him. This article is absurd. Francouer’s arm is the best thing we have left in the outfield, and your advice is wasting it in center? Great.

By Mark C.

October 31, 2007 9:08 AM | Link to this

If we’re trading for someone, go get Coco Crisp. He’s locked up for 2 years at a reasonable salary and plays a good CF. Maybe the more relaxed atmosphere would be good for him, like Edgar. I don’t know what Boston would want, probably a power arm out of the bullpen, but I think they’re ready to hand the job to Ellsbury anyway.

By STRETCH

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

Hmmm….Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2008), I really that idea! Wish we could sign Coco Crisp! This guy is a gamer, and i really think management is aware of this guy, but it would be trouble picking him up. Would be nice though.

By jack

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

Darn lin. Where did you learn your english? Are you from around here? You do know we have a VERY good offense for next year, right? We need to take advantage of that now..So, we need a couple of answers for CF and a 13 or 14 win starter now, if he is out there. Next year is NOT a rebuilding year. It is a MOVING year. Get help with your writing, please.

By Stanley Wise

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

With what I have observed Jeff do in right I would hardly say he is a candidate for a major league CF position. While he is a pretty decent player, CF is a position that requires a certain amount of speed athleticism and a well developed skill set. The braves were so effective in the past 10 yrs or so because of the confidence that the pitching staff had in the CF play. Just think of how many runs and hits Andruw took away every season. Low A ball and highschool ball hardly qualifies one as capable to run down a “Puljos” shot in the gap. Atlanta is going to have to stop being so CHEAP and invest in a shot at another ring. We can’t count on talent that hasn’t proven itself in the show either.

By TampaBrave

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

Am I glad you’re not calling the shots. Yeah let’s take one of the best right fielders in the game and stick him in a position that don’t match his skill sets AND replace him in right with someone who cannot prevent runners from going first to third. MB, you are a genius. Listen, just because you played CF in High school does not elevate you to a ML CF position. He doesn’t break on balls well, does not retreat on a ball well, and is not fast enough to cover the ground. Do this and your pitching staff will revolt. JF belongs in right just like Salty needed to catch.

By Brian

October 31, 2007 9:46 AM | Link to this

If we spend more than a few million bucks on somebody to come in and help with CF, I will be p**. It’s not a position of huge need. Worst case scenario right now, we play Willie in CF. Not a great solution, but not a total disaster. As others have mentioned, moving KJ to CF and backfilling him at 2nd is also an option.

The Braves are no longer in the position to be signing $10MM/year contracts. We need some semi-cheap stopgaps until the young, super-cheap guys are ready. Remember a couple of years back when everybody was up in arms about what we were going to do with left field? We had some patience and developed Langerhans and Kelly Johnson and traded for Diaz and it all worked out. Aren’t you all glad we didn’t go out and sign some big name LF for $10MM/year, which almost certainly would have made it impossible to do the Texeira trade?

By Charles I. Swann

October 31, 2007 9:46 AM | Link to this

Let Marcus Giles stay available. We don’t need him

By atlbraves

October 31, 2007 9:47 AM | Link to this

Mr. Bradley…are you nuts? I totally disagree with your fix for CF. You do not move Jeff from RF…no way no how!!! I say go after Rowand first, Hunter second, and if neither comes to ATL…give your young guys the opportunity. Leave Cameron alone. Focus on SP and resigning Tex. The chance for the Braves is NOW! The message to Mr. Wren should be WREN NOW OR LOOSE LATER!!!

By Jeff R

October 31, 2007 9:50 AM | Link to this

Bradley is right. The focus needs to be on pitching, or acquiring solid young arms to rebuild the staff now and for the longer haul (tip of the hat to Frank Wren for stepping in that direction with Renteria deal).

Francoeur is an acceptable short term solution to the team’s need in CF. Harris works in left, for the time being. I’d rather the braves spend the money on a capable back up 3B. Jones history of being out for 30-40 games is a concern.

By CHOPPY

October 31, 2007 9:55 AM | Link to this

The Braves have already tipped their hands as to what they are going to do in CF. Only a couple weeks ago, before moving upstairs, John Schuerholz made it clear that they like Francoeur in RF. Francoeur has made it clear that he likes it in RF and he won’t be moving over to CF. Frank Wren as new GM has made it clear, though not as blatantly as Schuerholz or Frenchy, that Jeff will not be in CF, thru his moves and statements. Wren dealt Renteria for a young CF prospect (and SP). He talked about how highly they view Schafer and how Brent Lillibridge would have played some CF in fall league had he not injured himself, and will play some CF in winter ball. He also said they have internal options to fill CF if they don’t find someone in free agency. All of this adds up to a new face in CF and an familiar face in RF.

I think the Braves feel that they’ve setup a healthy competition of talented kids for this spring to see if something sticks to the wall. The great thing about this situation is that all these kids are excellent defensively. I know Lillibridge is a SS who would be changing positions, but he played CF in college and was an excellent defensive SS, which anyone who knows baseball knows that great defensive SS can play all 8 positions well. I know that Schafer and the Hernandez kid acquired from Detroit are young and inexperienced, but Wren has already downplayed that negative by mentioning that Rafael Furcal made the jump from A ball to the majors. So to me signals that the Braves are willing to let Schafer (or Hernandez) skip AA or AAA if necessary.

By Tomahawkin

October 31, 2007 9:57 AM | Link to this

Coco Crisp’s offensive stats are horrible, the only reason he’s gotten any consideration is because he plays in Boston therefore he gets too much Exposure from those turds at ESPN…

Cameron, and Rowand Take a pass on them, Rowand had a contract year, therefore he will be overpaid…Cameron is A. Jones Part 2 whose defense is nowhere where it was when he was in Cincinnati…

Give the Young Cats a Shot, instead of overpaying someone, It worked in 91 and 2005…besides this team needs young energetic players….

Oh yea Focus on Pitching, I get tired of throwing my remote at the TV as a result of late blown leads…

By Tomahawkin

October 31, 2007 10:03 AM | Link to this

I’m sorta digging the Trade for Rocco Baldelli idea, I’d think it would be easier to get him now than it was a couple of years ago

I’ve been bringing the Thought of getting Shane Victorino to the “A”…The dude can flat out jet, and has decent defense…

By CHOPPY

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

That’s not to say that I don’t see Mark Bradley’s point. I see the logic in moving Francoeur to CF. He’s more than capable defensively for that job. Plus the Braves seemingly have more options as far as corner outfielders are concerned. They have Matt Diaz and Willie Harris who have made significant contributions on the big league club already. Plus they have the option of moving Kelly Johnson back to the OF and utilizing their system depth at the middle infield spots to backfill 2B, perhaps with Martin Prado or the aforementioned Lillibridge. And they have guys like Brandon Jones and Gregor Blanco who appear ready to have a shot at the bigs, that play corner OF spots.

But in the end, I think what the Braves appear to be doing is the better move. The CF prospects they have lining up for a shot, though they may be young and a year or so away, appear to be higher ceiling prospects than the guys they have available at the corner spots if they moved Frenchy to CF. So if you want to field the best team, you might as well move some younger guys along faster than to shuffle one of your established stars around for a couple years, only to shift him back to RF when Schafer or Hernandez are ready.

One other thing of note, Andruw Jones didn’t spend much time above A ball before he got to Atlanta. He played in 50 games in AA and AAA in 1996 before his dramatic appearance in the World Series. So the Braves are not new to having kids with mostly A ball experience break into the bigs and stick.

By Casey

October 31, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this

Don’t waste your money on a scrub like cameron or hunter… spend the money on proven starting pitching and develop within. Move harris to center for a year and have schafer come in the following year. We need a strong arm in right which leaves that position to frenchy. Diaz is a solid everyday player in left and with a couple more at bats could be a dark horse for a potential all-star bid. As for the glavine situation. I believe he pitched poorly due to the makeup of that mets clubhouse. They were falling apart at the seams and no one could’ve pitched them out of it (coming from a new york resident). Glavine would add depth as a no. 3-4 starter along with some native atl pride (more veterans = team chemistry and leadership). Plus, who else is going to golf with Smoltz on the off days?

By David-ATL14

October 31, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this

Francoeur’s under zero consideration to move to CF.

I doubt he cares but if Wren needed confirmation of the stupidity of the idea: I give you Mark Bradley.

Stick to columns that you have slight knowledge about. This one is way off base.

By Greg

October 31, 2007 10:36 AM | Link to this

Crisp is an interesting option, because of his defense, rather than his offense. He is not a very good offensive player (at least not in Boston) with hand injuries that have sapped his power. Boston doesn’t need him anymore, I wonder what it would take to get him and some salary relief?

Baldelli doesn’t make sense as a stopgap to Schaeffer/Hernandez. To be a stopgap, you actually have to play the game. If you needed a stopgap to sit of the DL 75% of the time, Baldelli’s your man.

By JB

October 31, 2007 10:42 AM | Link to this

John Schuerholz, the Braves’ general manager for 16 seasons, until last week when he took over as president, said the team needs to shore up its starting pitching and to replace Andruw Jones in center field. But Francoeur, with his five-tool repertoire, isn’t a candidate for the position. “We need to find someone to play center field, but it won’t be this fellow,” Schuerholz said, referring to Francoeur. “I know that’s something a lot of people have been talking about, but I don’t think we’ll do that.”

By Tomahawkin

October 31, 2007 10:52 AM | Link to this

Y’all hold it down on the topic for next year…Gotta go to Class, then its gonna be party time Homes! My Aztec Warrior will be coming out 2nite. Its Halloween, I live for this!

By CHOPPY

October 31, 2007 10:54 AM | Link to this

Very interesting. I did some checking on Jordan Schafer, since I’ve heard scouts compare him to Grady Sizemore. The results of my checking were in Schafer’s favor. Schafer has played 299 games so far, none above A+ ball. I compared that to the first 300 games of Sizemore, none above A+ ball. Here is the tail of the tape:

SCHAFER SIZEMORE

G 299 300 AB 1135 1084 PA 1235 1270 R 153 163 H 306 306 2B 76 48 3B 20 14 HR 26 6 RBI 142 121 SB 51 71 CS 30 29 BB 97 173 SO 269 187 AVG 0.270 0.282 OBP 0.327 0.381 SLG 0.548 0.432 OPS 0.875 0.813

Sizemore had an edge in patience and a slight edge in basestealing, but Schafer wins in the total base category by a huge margin. I’d say the Braves have a nice replacement for Andruw Jones waiting in the wings for 2009, if not next season. It’s become very obvious to me why the Braves were quick to say adios to Andruw Jones (at a possible $20 million a season).

By CHOPPY

October 31, 2007 10:59 AM | Link to this

I hate the way this blog f-u c-k s up formatting.

SCHAFER

G 299 AB 1135 PA 1235 R 153 H 306 2B 76 3B 20 HR 26 RBI 142 SB 51 CS 30 BB 97 SO 269 AVG 0.270 OBP 0.327 SLG 0.548 OPS 0.875

SIZEMORE

G 300 AB 1084 PA 1270 R 163 H 306 2B 48 3B 14 HR 6 RBI 121 SB 71 CS 29 BB 173 SO 187 AVG 0.282 OBP 0.381 SLG 0.432 OPS 0.813

By Big Donnie

October 31, 2007 11:00 AM | Link to this

Mike Cameron is terrible. That’s all we need — a .240 rally-killer who hits an occasional home run.

And all the Willie Harris talk is silly too - yes, he was on fire for a couple months, but what you saw at the end of the season is the kind of player he is. Just check his stats throughout his ML career — not impressive.

I heard that goofy Aaron Rowand is trade bait… I’d rather see him. At least he’s a tough out that plays solid defense.

By augusta brave

October 31, 2007 11:23 AM | Link to this

This is not a situation where it will be an addition by subtraction. If the braves had the personnel to shift outfielders they would have done it this past season.

By Rick Roberts

October 31, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

I like your thinking on Franceour! Great arm, too. Of course, Shaefer might even make it this year—he has that drive and talent. Odds against it, but he would produce more than Cameron and Willie Harris! Sign Glavine, period! I like Frank Wren’s first trade! Looks like he isn’t afraid to pull the trigger! Now, move Thorman, Villareal, Yates, Orr, and Aybar, even Cormier and KJ. Time to turn over some guys who have had the chance and get new blood in here. I still like Prado at 2B—KJ doesn’t make enough plays for our pitchers. Would really like to see more speed at the top of the lineup. Diaz is a great fourth OF, but need some speed there. Let’s go Frank!!

By mr baseball

October 31, 2007 12:07 PM | Link to this

To the genius who posted at 6:30 this morning. Please pick up a dictionary and look for the definition of sarcasm. Also gullible.

To the esteemed coach and all others who cite meaningless stats in their efforts to dismiss Cameron, get a clue. Batting average and strikeouts are not the only numbers that determine the offensive worth of a batter. And defensive stats for outfielders are largely the results of what kind of pitching staff a team has.

As P.T. Barnum (I think it was him) once said, no one ever went broke underestimating the intelligence of the American public. To paraphrase, you can never go wrong underestimating the baseball knowledge of Atlanta Braves fans. Or most media types offering suggestions on how to improve the team. Ya’ll deserve each other.

By Rick Long

October 31, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this

How about this for a short term bridge to Schafer (hopefully)in 2009? Why not trade for Coco Crisp who I understand is expendable and I wouldn’t think would be making all that much money?

By CHOPPY

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

All that Mike Cameron talk is likely mute now. He is being suspended 25 games for testing positive for a stimulant. Whether taken innocently or not, I doubt the Braves would enjoy signing a guy who’ll miss the first 25 games of the season. The Braves usually steer clear of controversy, so Cameron is likely out of the question for the CF job.

Just as well, I’m sold on letting one of the kids earn it anyway.

By DAC

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

Thank God Frank Wren is GM instead of all you bloggers. Bring Glavine Back so we can give senior citizen discounts to our pitching staff. Stop living in the past. If you can fix it now, do it.

By Hilble

October 31, 2007 12:23 PM | Link to this

You better get a great CF if your going to bring back Glavine because they will be climbing the wall.

By Crusty

October 31, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this

Yikes Mike Cameron is out of the picture suspended for banned substances…where to now?

By Noahway

October 31, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this

Good grief, Mark. Why start switching all these guys from their best positions? We need defensive improvement, not more defensive uncertainty. Sign a cheap defensive specialist and let him compete for the CF job with the youngsters in spring training.

By Orlando Rivera

October 31, 2007 12:35 PM | Link to this

I say get a cheap defensive specialist as well at CF and sign A-Rod. He will bring fans to the seats and would more than replace Andruw’s production.

By Met Fan

October 31, 2007 12:46 PM | Link to this

Well, they are not taking the best defensive right fielder in the came and moving him to center. The original plan set in place the second after Shuerholtz signed Texteria was to bring in Cameron after the season. The domino effect that followed. Texteria, from the Atlanta area is the long term solution in the 4th hole, meaning that Andruw and Renteria would be gone to make the payroll room for him. They would then use Renteria to trade for some of the minor league depth they lost when they traded half the farm for Texteria. One would have to be a top centerfielder prospect (from Tigers) that would have to be ready in about two years which was exactly how long they were planning to sign Mike Cameron. Now that Cameron has tested positive for a stimulant, not part of the Shuerholtz plan, who knows what will happen out in center in the short term. My guess is Willy Harris and some type of platoon

By Oh Bradley...

October 31, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this

Geez, Bradley, as you can see by so many of the comments, you’re way off for 2008. I agree that the money must be saved for pitching (and making a big run at Teix, though that’s unfortunately likely to be a losing battle), but your logic for the OF is weird. 1) Francoeur’s arm belongs in right. 2) The internal options we have for center (Blanco, Lilli, B. Jones to name a few) are more promising than stopgaps you proposed in RF (Prado??, Harris). 3) Harris is not an everyday player (July OPS of .640, August OPS of .712, September OPS of .438!), and is only valuable for his speed. 4) Prado’s a slick infielder with no bat, and is thus most valuable as a close-and-late defensive replacement.

So yes, fill CF from within, to save money for pitching, but don’t move Frenchy from a position he’s got a handle on when we have others to fill the position.

By Gore

October 31, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this

Man, A-Rod playing in Atlanta? You couldn’t buy a ticket, sell outs ever game.

By DirtyDawg

October 31, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

Clearly you shouldn’t take one of the best outfield arms out of RF…Harris, if he’s still around, is better suited for left or, maybe center…Kelly is obviously no second-baseman, and even though his reactions seem a bit limited, he has good speed and his arm isn’t a problem now that he’s gotten it fixed - some of his relays this past year were long, hard and right on the money - give him a try at CF…Prado is a player, he hits, he has range at second (to either side), he can make the turn at second with the best of ‘em - I wouldn’t have any problem with him in the opening day line-up.

By True Braves Fan

October 31, 2007 12:50 PM | Link to this

Mark: Go back to covering HOCKEY!!!! (or mud wrestling.)

By James

October 31, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this

Aybar IS GONE!!!!

By Met Fan

October 31, 2007 1:02 PM | Link to this

While Kelly Johnson did not set the world on fire as a second baseman, he played it respectfully and was an offensive force on the team. I do not think the Braves are going to mess with him in centerfield. If they were, they wouuld have kept Renteria around a little longer and moved Escobar to second. Prado is not a full time second baseman. He has the potential to be a fine utility infielder.

By Stuart

October 31, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this

Breaking News:

Espn.com; Cameron got popped for 25 games for stimulants. So if they sign Cameron, the bravos have to have someone play CF for the 1st 25 games anyway.

Franceour will fit in CF and do fine, heck KJ was a CF in AA for awhile, but I dont think he is going to be out there. Diaz and B. Jones platoon in LF will be fine. Keep Willie as the uber utility guy, and go spend a couple bucks on a RF with some speed (if avialable) and spend the rest on pitching or Tex’s new deal.

By EJRC11

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

This guy gets paid for writing for the AJC?

Dude knows nothing about baseball or even the Braves for that matter. Willie F@#$ Harris or KJ in RF? Did he watch Harris him play last season…KJ was an OK LF, his defense would be bad in RF

Does this guy know the RF must have a great arm, dude Willie Harris has a weak arm and KJ’s arm would be below average for a RF.

AJC, I can do a much better job and much cheaper than Bradley and many in here also can do a better job, so if you have any interest in having my services please e-mail me.

By dugoutAK

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

Mr. Baseball, since you don’t feel that Cameron’s strikeouts, etc should be used to judge him, how about POSITIVE DRUG TESTS???

By Jason

October 31, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this

move the deserving left fielder (Diaz) to right, and platoon the two prospects in right, Frenchy in center…we need pitchers who’ll keep the ball in the park, and let the bats do the rest

By Met Fan

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

Diaz earned a full time shot at left and Franceour is your right fielder. So unless they feel comfortable enough with Brandon Jones no put him in Center, he will be traded.

By LivininAL

October 31, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this

At least we will not have to hear —move Chipper to 1st base like we did last year ..in center bring up a young one, bat him 8th, get a stud starter and win the division.

By Met Fan

October 31, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

Diaz earned a full time shot at left and Franceour is your right fielder. So unless they feel comfortable enough with Brandon Jones no put him in Center, he will be traded.

By Met Fan

October 31, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

Diaz earned a full time shot at left and Franceour is your right fielder. So unless they feel comfortable enough with Brandon Jones no put him in Center, he will be traded.

By Met Fan

October 31, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

Diaz earned a full time shot at left and Franceour is your right fielder. So unless they feel comfortable enough with Brandon Jones no put him in Center, he will be traded.

By PETA Supporter

October 31, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

One more option is to sign Michael Vick and make him the centerfielder. He runs fast and has a strong throwing arm. He could bring by his own scouts when the Braves have their next “Bring your pet to the game” promotion.

By Tom Kauffman

October 31, 2007 2:07 PM | Link to this

Get Langerhans back for CF. This past year was a fluke.

By Met Fan

October 31, 2007 2:08 PM | Link to this

The Braves could trade Jeff Franceour to the Mets for Lastings Milledge and they Braves could have the centerfielder they always wanted. This is just as silly as moving Franceour to right. If they are thinking of doing so, they might as well trade him to the Mets so his defensive skills would not go to waste.

By JB

October 31, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this

I like the Mike Vick idea, however, some of the dogs at the game may have been former property of Mike Vick and run on the field and attack him.

By jack

October 31, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this

Mike Cameron was just suspended for drugs for 25 games to start 2008 season. So, I`d say to mark him OFF.

By Jason Kelley

October 31, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this

Mark,

Have you seen Matt Diaz play outfield. He is horrible. Leave him on the bench for when you need a hitter. Willie is decent. I agree with the idea to move Jeff over to Center. Give Brandon a look in spring training. I think our financial focus should be pitching. Stick with the nurturing the young talent we have. Plus Mike just got suspended for the first 25 games.

By mr baseball

October 31, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

The Braves do not have a major league ready CF on their roster. They reportedly have two potential major league CFs in the minors, so a short term veteran would be their best option. They are not going to be able to afford Hunter or Rowand. For a variety of reasons, Cameron was the best available opiton. But since he committed the heinous crime of testing positive for a banned stimulant, the squeaky clean Braves — former employers of such upstanding citizens as Ken Caminiti, Otis Nixon, Bret Boone, Javy Lopez and Marcus Giles — are unlikely to pursue Cameron.

Since there isn’t much else left available on the free agent market other than 66-year-old Kenny Lofton, that means a trade is required. Corey Patterson? Chris Duffy? David DeJesus? Randy Winn? Take your pick.

Or better yet, the new GM can follow in the footsteps of the former GM and do what Schuerholz did in the wake of his all-time bonehead trade of Boone & Klesko to the Padres for 3 helpings of nothing. Allow the team to go without a major league player at a position for 3 or 4 years until someone emerges from the farm system.

That’s the ticket.

By 1eyedJack

October 31, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

I say go ahead and give Jordan Schafer the job next year and let him learn on the job. We carried a .200 avg there last year and with better pitching we can afford to carry one next year.

By Corey

October 31, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

Francoeur to center is a definite option. However, I think they still need to sign an OF. There are 7 free agent outfielders that should catch the Braves attention this off-season: 1) RF Bobby Abreu, 2) CF Torii Hunter, 3) LF Adam Dunn, 4) CF Aaron Rowand, 5) RF Jose Guillen, 6) LF Barry Bonds & 7) CF Mike Cameron.

By paul nelson

October 31, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

ok this the the way the braves should lineup for 2008. at shortstop y.escobar or arod at leftfeild w.harris or m. hessman at third c. jones at first m. teixeria at rightfeild j. francoeur at second k. johnson at centerfeild d. erstad or t. nixon starting pitchers j. smoltz, t. hudson, t. glavine, m. hampton, & j. bennett in the bullpen closer r. soriano (R) r. ring (L) m. gonzalez (L) t. yates (R) p. moylan (R) c. james (L)

By Gary

October 31, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this

Those that have mentioned moving Kelly or some other utility player to center field don’t seem to understand how critical it is to have a great defensive CF. Whoever we get must also contribute to the offense with either speed or power. I think we’re pretty set with power so I’d like to see us go after speed. The Coco option might work, if he is available. I don’t think we have anyone coming up that’s ready to start in CF for a contender, but I’d love to be pleasantly surprised. We don’t need to move infielders to the oufield, that’s a sign of panic and we are not that bad off. Besides, we need all the help in the infield we can get to back up injury proned veterans. We’re obviously not looking for a star veteran, we already had one. Let’s find the next young defensive Andruw. I’ve been spoiled by the best.

By richbrave

October 31, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

Definitely give Matty a full-time shot in left. Keep Frenchy in right. Fill the hole in center. Before Renteria’s BIG bat left the two or three-hole, I would have said bring on the farm system - try them all - NOW!! BUT with only two boppers in the middle whoa back mule!! Johnson got the shot at lead-off because of his patience. Soon after, his strike-out to walk ratio and ob% went way-y-y south. Do I smell the influence of a batting coach?? IF lead-off Kelly(or anyone)is on base A LOT more than last year, you might skin by with Chip and Tex at three and four. Otherwise A. Rowand seems nice. Sure would be good to have him on our side instead of somewhere besides Philly pounding our pitching again.

By Fred p

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

Someone tell James that Willy Aybar is still on the Braves 40 man roster. If you’re posting get your facts straight!

By Pete Falcone

October 31, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

James,

You’re wrong on Aybar…

http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/team/roster40man.jsp?cid=atl

By Aaron in Seattle

October 31, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this

You can forget about Mike Cameron coming to the Braves - he was just suspended 25 games for testing positive for a banned stimulant. There’s no way the Braves front office is going to put any effort into bringing a guy over who will automatically miss a month of the season and have the stigma of being a speed junkie.

Rowand is the man to get since Carl Crawford is (supposedly) unattainable. I’d still exhaust every opportunity to get Crawford, though.

By Aaron in Seattle

October 31, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this

Paul Nelson- did I read this correctly? A-Rod at Short for the Braves?

Dude, the next time Mike Cameron offers you party favors, decline. That stuff is messing with your brain.

By Timothy Winsted

October 31, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

you are out of your mind keep jeff in right good arm equals outs at the plate.

By Ed Glennon

October 31, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this

Sign Torri Hunter for 15 mill. Offer Tex a resonable deal in the spring and if he tells us to stuff it then trade him for prospects. We will be left with Hunter 25 HR Chipper 26 HR Francour 22 HR McCann 20 HR. AND NO SCOTT BORAS.

By actionjack

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

Well the Braves just blew my plans.I wanted them to keep Edgar Renteria. I envisioned possibly allowing Yunel Escobar trying out in center field during winter ball.Leaving Francouer in right and the platoon of Willie Harris and Matt Diaz in left. Escobar has better than average speed, a great arm , and is a better contact hitter than Andruw. Can’t we quit overpaying wornout free-agents and give our farm hands a chance to make good ?

By Will K.

October 31, 2007 7:13 PM | Link to this

I think the Braves need to consider trading Schafer. I don’t know if he will be any more coveted than right now. How’s about Jordan Schafer, Jo Jo Reyes, Manny Acosta, Brent Lillibridge, and Brandon Jones to the Minnesota Twins for Johan Santana. Then, sign Santana to a long term extension instead of Teixeira. Talk about a replacement for Smoltz when he wants to retire.

By Jose

October 31, 2007 10:23 PM | Link to this

Willy Ayabar is playing in the Dominican Winter Leagues and is 6-10 a .600 average I see him backing up Chipper at third

By Ole Prof

October 31, 2007 10:45 PM | Link to this

Hole in the logic, Boom.. with kj in left Frenchie in right and someone in center.. that leasves our best (Matt Diaz) hitter in the cold……… NO WAY… Matt stays in left FULL TIME.. He earned it…sent Harris packing.. he shot his wad…

By Ole Prof

October 31, 2007 10:45 PM | Link to this

Hole in the logic, Boom.. with kj in left Frenchie in right and someone in center.. that leasves our best (Matt Diaz) hitter in the cold……… NO WAY… Matt stays in left FULL TIME.. He earned it…send Harris packing.. he shot his wad…

By jb

November 1, 2007 12:06 AM | Link to this

Bradley, U r an idiot!

Move Franceour to center and put Harris in right? If you were to put Harris and Franceour in the same outfield, Harris plays center. He has the speed for it and his arm is adequate for center. When Andruw was out of the line up this year, it went Diaz, Harris, Franceour. No reason to change it. I do not feel Harris is the answer. I would rather see one of the kids brought up. Defensively they are ready, and there offense can not be anyworse that Harris had the latter part of the season. As for everybody else wanting to move KJ back to the OF, why? He played a decent second base, I feel he looked better there than Prado did. Lillebridge would likely play a better OF than KJ (better speed and arm.) As for a SS going to CF, Robin Yount did a pretty darn good job if I recall, and he didn’t have college experience at the position.