ajcsportstalk

By braves fan

September 27, 2006 06:55 PM | Link to this

I think a good rule of thumb would be to not trade future hall-of-famers while they are in their prime unless you got an absolutely unbelievable deal. That means young players who have played and played well in the majors.

By A Real Fan

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

Keep Andruw! Who would you replace him with? In the outfield or the lineup.

By Opinion M

September 27, 2006 07:13 PM | Link to this

Ok Andruw Jones is the same as John Smoltz, they should retire Atlanta Braves. A team is built from the talent of the players it employs. But after time the long standing players give the team a sort personality. Greg Maddux contributed to that personality and they lost something after he was gone. John Smoltz, and Andruw Jones are also pieces of that personality and they should stay for as long as they want or until the get Glavine-ized and too greety for their own good. For christs sake our Atlanta Braves are 70% home grown youth as it is do we really need to try and trade for more prospects? How about unloading a broken 3rd baseman, every pitcher not named Smoltz, Hudson or Wickman, and maybe a pitching coach that can actually make a difference (I always had a dream of JS retiring, Bobby taking his spot, Rocking Leo taking Manager, and the great Greg Maddux taking over as Atlanta Braves pitching coach but Leo wouldn’t make a good manager, Bobby wont wear a tie, do you think Maddux would ever come back home?)

By Bryan G.

September 27, 2006 07:14 PM | Link to this

Yeah, I think it’s a great idea to trade your best player. Maybe the Falcons can trade Vick next or UGA can trade Mark Richt for a ball boy and a wide receivers coach.

Maybe we can trade Andruw Jones for Jeff Parrot and Jim Vance. (if you caught that…kudos to you)

By Opinion M

September 27, 2006 07:16 PM | Link to this

I hate to do this but I have to bring up the fact that he negotiated a contract with his Dad just so he could remain a Brave. That can never be replaced.

By Ed Amiss Jr

September 27, 2006 07:43 PM | Link to this

Andruw stays. No way he get dealt. I would never have considering getting rid of Wilson Betemit. That will haunt the Braves for years to come.

By Hawk

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

Only trade I’d make for Andruw… to the Twins for Liriano and Mauer

By Skydawg

September 27, 2006 08:06 PM | Link to this

Does English 101 still exist? It’s still in the cirriculum isn’t it? Just curious.

By Jason

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

You would be crazy to trade Andruw. I’d trade Chipper and Giles for some pitching and a utilty player and then get after Soriono a better bat than Chipper and plays more games and also solves the leadoff problem. I’d give Andruw the five or six year deal he deserves.

By The Man

September 27, 2006 08:38 PM | Link to this

Skydawg - does Spelling 101 still exist? You like men.

By BullDawg Rick

September 27, 2006 08:43 PM | Link to this

Why the hell does the press think up this sh!t?? To stir the pot?? Andrew is “turning 30??” WOW.. He’s the absolute BEST CF EVER!! Hits for power, is relatively healthy, as opposed to the “other Jones”…

Have you ever heard of the classic “an Old 30” that was traded by the Reds to the O’s?? Frank Robinson was an “old 30” to the Reds.. They traded him to the O’s for Milt Pappas.. Robinson went on to solidify a Hall of Fame career & hit for the triple crown & MVP in ‘66…

Trade Andrew?? Are you CRAZY????

By JT

September 27, 2006 08:52 PM | Link to this

The answer is simple: NO. Why would you ever want to trade away the cornerstone of the franchise while he is still IN HIS PRIME???? It just doesn’t make sense at all. I agree with Opinion M. Smoltzie and Druw should retire Braves. In addition to that, I’ll say that their plaques should be placed next to each other in Cooperstown one day.

By 1 + 2 = 4

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

I am a big Andruw fan, however, if he is going to eat up 1/5 of the budget, then you have to trade him (I can’t believe I just said that). But at the same time, do you trade a potential HOF player. Logic says ‘no’ but dollars and a tight salary cap says ‘yes’.

I believe the problem with the Braves isn’t Andruw or Chipper, it’s the starting pitching. If only there was a way to trade Hudson and Hampton, we may be able to salvage something.

By 1 + 2 = 4

September 27, 2006 08:59 PM | Link to this

I am a big Andruw fan, however, if he is going to eat up 1/5 of the budget, then you have to trade him (I can’t believe I just said that). But at the same time, do you trade a potential HOF player. Logic says ‘no’ but dollars and a tight salary cap says ‘yes’.

I believe the problem with the Braves isn’t Andruw or Chipper, it’s the starting pitching. If only there was a way to trade Hudson and Hampton, we may be able to salvage something.

By The Grinch

September 27, 2006 09:03 PM | Link to this

It really bothers me that this is the second time in the last few weeks I’ve seen a photo here of a sad, dejected-looking Andruw with an accompanying article about how beaten-down, old, disgruntled or un-loved he is. HE’S THE ONLY IRREPLACEABLE PLAYER ON THIS TEAM. He’s the greatest center fielder of our generation. He swings a mighty bat (if somewhat inconsistant). Unlike almost everyone else on the team, he actually has a personality. Do you guys (the AJC) really want him gone that bad? What did he ever do to you? Articles like these are hardly gonna mke him feel like giving us another hometown discount. Andruw! Don’t pay attention to them! They get free passes to the games; we pay real money because we love you!

By Harry

September 27, 2006 09:17 PM | Link to this

What difference does it make what we - the fans - think????!!!! Management seems to be on another wave from us.

By Dave

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

Uh, no.

By raymond

September 27, 2006 09:31 PM | Link to this

Andruw is all the Braves have that they can trade. No one in their right mind would take Chipper, Hampton,or Hudson off our hands and the Braves need to rebuild in a bad way. I hate to see him leave but he has to and if the team could talk someone into it, take Chipper with him.

By mark

September 27, 2006 09:33 PM | Link to this

Why not trade the other Jones. That should save a little cash. His arrogant attitude would not be missed. Keep AJ!

By Alan

September 27, 2006 09:39 PM | Link to this

Bryan G, not to nitpick, but your reference to the infamous Dale Murphy trade is a bit off. But your point is very well-taken. The “bodies” the Braves received were Jeff Parrett, Jim Vatcher and Victor Rosario. One of the most ill-advised trades ever made - even though Murph was pretty much washed up. Andruw must NOT be traded. He is, hands down, the Braves’ best player - offensively and defensively. Because he’s still under contract in ‘07, it makes absolutely no sense to trade him this offseason, and I surely hope that’s the case. There’s no way the Braves can replace his power numbers, his incredible defense, and - yes, as others have pointed out - his personality. He has to stay - at least one more year. If he chooses to leave after next season, it’ll be his choice - not the Braves’.

By andy

September 27, 2006 09:39 PM | Link to this

Andruw Jones is right up there with Henry Aaron and Eddie Matthews. He will probably go down in history as the greatest center fielder in professional baseball, pushing aside Willie Mays.

Andruw IS the Braves. Perhaps the Braves could get $100 and a case of Bud for Chipper, which would be a much better deal.

By John the Handsome

September 27, 2006 09:46 PM | Link to this

Keep Andy Jones and Diaz and trade the rest or just give them away. Sent the white trash Chippie to the swamps and let Hudson tag along. Give B. Cox bus fare and tell himnot to come back to town. S ew the Braves and all the announters.

By Austin

September 27, 2006 09:52 PM | Link to this

why dont the braves just petition to become a farm team for the mets or dodgers not resigning andruw would be the surest sign that the ownership of this organization doesnt care about winning all season ticket holders should boycott in protest arthur blank the braves need you

By JJ

September 27, 2006 09:58 PM | Link to this

Andruw is history, Gregor Blanco is the future CF of this team.

By Susan

September 27, 2006 10:00 PM | Link to this

To Skydawg complaining about the English language: the word is curriculum. Dumkopf!

Andruw is a fixture with the Braves. To trade Andruw is akin to trading Chipper—you trade away the faces and lynchpins of the Braves lineup PLUS THEY’RE AMAZING BASEBALL PLAYERS, Hall of Famers.

Well, enough daydreaming. Baseball is a business, not a tradition anymore. Nobody is safe with one team anymore. Too much greed, too many agents. I have bulimia. I don’t stick my finger down my throat to throw up. I just get somebody to say “Scott Boras” to me and I throw up immediately. Gotta go now.

By Biatek

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

What kinda knee jerk crap is this? One of the few players to show loyalty anymore and there is even talk of trading him? No wonder Maddux and Glavine bolted !! There is no loyalty anymore. It’s all about the cash. And with these new owners coming in, it’s all downhill fans. Seems that besides winning 1 of 15 chances at the Championship, the only other Brave Organization attribute is to treat those who have given the most, like dirt. From Niekro to Murph to Glavine. True fans care about the players AND the team. Yeah, it’s a business alright but personally, I could give a rat’s a$$ about that side of it………..

By Carolina Lady

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

Andruw stays! Period. End of discussion.

By tee

September 27, 2006 10:31 PM | Link to this

Y year after year we talk about Andrew being traded and not even mention the other Jones. Granted Andrew give you a bad batting average; but lets talk about what he gives you. Which is a great defensive center field , a home run threat, and a high number of RBI’s. Would you rather drop all of that and depend on a man that can’t stay in the everyday lineup. Think about that a while you ask should AJ should be traded. The obvious answer should no

By Charlie

September 27, 2006 10:39 PM | Link to this

Tough, tough call. With only $80-$85 million available for payroll, you can’t weaken the team to keep 1 player if the price is too high. If the right deal is there, I trade him. But it has to be the RIGHT deal that strengthens the team for the future.

By Jay

September 27, 2006 10:39 PM | Link to this

He peaked last year. This year he was extremely streaky…just like every other year. But add in that now his body is breaking down. Think about it…do the Braves really want to invest 15 million a year on a player whose body is falling apart at the age of 30????? And of course we cant dh him, and he isnt playing over Cockroache. Dont forget we already have a .260 30 hr streaky strikeout guy…his name is Francoeur. Do we really need two? Trade him now or pay the price later on.

The ONLY way I say we keep him is if he hires a personal trainer or whatever and gets in shape. Then I would feel better about his body holding up over the course of his contract, and it would show he actually cared (something I dont think was too apparent over chunks of the season).

By Bryan G.

September 27, 2006 10:49 PM | Link to this

Alan, you’re right. I definitely meant Jim Vatcher. What a wasted trade that was.

By Laurance Maney

September 27, 2006 10:49 PM | Link to this

An argument could be made for trading AJ but for whom? Liriano & Mauer? If they are as good as they seem, maybe but how do you keep them on an $80,000,000 payroll? Lester, Hanson and Coco Puffs? Please. John-Boy or Home-boy or whatever his name is says pitching is his priority. Well he’s got Smoltz, Hudson, Hampton, Davies, James and Ramirez for starters and he’s got a closer. What else does he need? Middle-relievers for sure but that’s what Leo did best, so trading Andruw won’t fix that. Keep him in 2007, get back in the postseason with what you’ve got - a very good young team for the most part - and see what happens after that.

By edward

September 27, 2006 10:52 PM | Link to this

nooo why trade your best player, trade chiper,giles etc,no andrew

By Trent

September 27, 2006 10:56 PM | Link to this

Trade him now. Our budget is growing every year with the players we have, we will never get better. Sometimes you got to take a step back to move forward. I love Andrew but at his salary you can pick up 4 or 5 players to fill some of our holes. Keeping him will just limit us going after players which is what happened this year. I feel like some folks would rather come in last place with Andrew then being able to be competitive would our salary constraints.

By JYD

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

If I were GM, I would look at the last two years… 91 homeruns, 351 rbi, 351 RBI!!!, ANOTHER gold glove, another season he gives it his all, day in and day out, and an upstanding citizen. His defense more than makes up for his BA. What more could you ask for? Who plays center if he is gone? Kenny Lofton? Oddibe McDowell? If I were GM, the next thing I would do is look up the AJC phone number to talk to the moron who is stirring the pot. Leave Andruw the hell alone!

By Liz

September 27, 2006 11:03 PM | Link to this

wow… AJC really sucks!

By ELAINE

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

I have always wonder what the President and Managers are thinking when they trade good players. They are not thinking clearly. Why would anyone think of trading Andruw. You will never get another player like him. I would consider not looking at the Braves next year if you do trade him, and I hope others think the same way.

By Shaun Payne

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

It depends on what they can get. If they can get two or three quality young players, they should trade him.

Andruw is going to remain productive for a while longer, but he’s not likely to get better. Players generally peak in their late 20’s. He’s not likely to get better but he is going to get more expensive.

The best players in the game are worth about 10-14 wins per season. Obviously, if the Braves get two players worth half that for 1/3 of the cost of Andruw Jones, it would be better to trade him. It all depends on what they can get. But I, as a Braves fan, wouldn’t be crying if the Braves are “stuck” with Andruw Jones.

It’s not about whether Andruw is a great player or a fire sale. It’s about payroll and roster efficiency, something increasingly important in today’s game.

The perfect example of a great veteran-for-prospect trade: A.J. Pierzynski for Joe Nathan, Francisco Liriano and Boof Bonser. The Braves probably aren’t going to pull of a trade like that, but they could get two or three quality players for Andruw if they are smart about it.

By flbravesgirl

September 27, 2006 11:21 PM | Link to this

Absolutely not! Andruw is irreplaceable. Yes, he is a streaky hitter but we’ve always known that and he always comes up with good offensive numbers in the end. And the defense…. no discussion is needed. He is the best.

He’s shown loyalty to the Braves with his previous contract and made it clear he wants to stay. It’s time for management to return that loyalty.

By Daybed Wagmoe

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

keep him!!!

when you have an opportunity to hang onto a guy who delivers 35-40+ homers and 120+ rbi a year, that’s a solid foundation for your offense that you don’t want to lose. plus, he saves how many runs a year??? his defense is THE best among outfielders. the gold glove award should be renamed “the andruw jones award.”

no visiting hitter hits a line drive to center field in turner field and thinks he’s on base.

By Alan

September 27, 2006 11:23 PM | Link to this

Bryan G, I almost forgot - the Braves also traded pitcher Tommy Greene with Dale Murphy, and all Greene did was pitch a no-hitter for the Phillies and give them a couple of solid seasons before injuries shut him down. All this says is there are no guarantees when you trade a player, and when he’s Andruw Jones and still in his prime, you’d better be darn sure of yourself. I’m so glad the Red Sox did not bite on AJ for Crisp, Lester and Hansen - that had disaster written all over it. Keep Andruw - he’s actually a bargain in ‘07.

By gotigers72

September 27, 2006 11:25 PM | Link to this

What are you, nuts? Unless a really overwhelming trade came along, or unless Boras sets the price to an unreal sum, Andruw should be a Brave for the rest of his career.

Not only does he have 127 RBIS, how many RBIs does he have with his glove? Total them up [offense and defense], and he has over 200, which breaks Hack Wilson’s MLB record. NEVER, NEVER, NEVER trade this guy except for the reasons I listed above. I am very worried about the greedy narcissist Boras being his agent, and Andruw letting him handle things this time.

By Ray Pettit

September 27, 2006 11:26 PM | Link to this

I like Andruw. But is it possible that he’s one of those players with a phony birth certificate like Furcal? Maybe he’s really about 33 years old.

By Daybed Wagmoe

September 27, 2006 11:29 PM | Link to this

on the other hand, maybe trading him wouldn’t be so bad.

with brian mccann, jeff francouer, and adam laroche, bobby cox has his choice of clean-up hitters. the following won’t be regular occurences: groundouts to third in the first inning with a man on…no more strikeouts on low-and-away and/or eye-level pitches…

trade andruw to, say, boston, and get coco crisp in return — then cox has a leadoff hitter who will score when mccann comes up, plus he’ll get some steals.

on second thought, keep andruw and sign dave roberts, who will be a free agent at the end of this year — he’ll play left field regularly, bat leadoff, and get plenty of steals.

i think andruw is too valuable to trade away, and i would always cringe if i saw him in a different uniform.

By Shaun Payne

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

Frank Robinson’s best years in terms of Runs Created per 27 outs:

His best seasons were in his mid 20’s and late 20’s and early 30’s. His value after 30 was good, but is not as good as you may have heard.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Runs_Created

By Gayle Abbott

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

All you Braves’ fans saying that “no way, Andruw stays” need to remember that Ted Turner no longer owns this team. That means ownership more concerned with a reduced payroll than an all-star center fielder.

Jones is gone - if the team is smart, they’ll trade him and get some value in return. If they are dumb and arrogant - like thay have been as of late - he walks out the door and the Braves’get draft picks.

There is no way Liberty Media - who are buying the Braves to dodge taxes - are going to see the value is paying Andruw what he can likely get on the open market.

Oh? Home town discount? Remember how well that worked with JD Drew and Gary Sheffield?

By dan k

September 27, 2006 11:40 PM | Link to this

I trust the Braves will do everything they can to sign him, and look to shed payroll elsewhere. He should be money good for another 3-5 years and they can insure him. I think the harder question is whether they try to get something done this offseason, or wait until the end of 2007. I think there is something to be said for having the guy play during his contract year, as he could carry the team and put up awesome numbers, especially with Chipper’s health issues a concern. Plus they will have another year to judge McCann, Frenchy and LaRoache’s production.

In any case, I think they see how the market develops for Soriano, as he’s a good comp, so to speak.

I think Giles is definately a goner, and Hudson too if they get something back. Both were very dissapointing this year. With the contracts to Wickman and Smoltz, I think JS gets the joke that the competition (ie…Mets) will spend on pitching, speed and bullpen.

I think the priority should be getting Carl Crawford from the D-Rays and letting him bat leadoff.

By rob

September 27, 2006 11:41 PM | Link to this

I dont ever want to see this drivel again. Andruw is a hall of famer, a great person, and the face of the Atlanta Braves. Don’t speculate on this crap. Write something useful like did you hear T.O. tried to commit suicide?

By Someone with some sense

September 27, 2006 11:42 PM | Link to this

You people that won’t even consider trading Andruw must be the folks who are $10grand in debt and not saving for retirement because you people obviously can’t see beyond the nose on your face. Andruw is great, he is the best player on the Braves. That is WHY you trade him. You must give something of value to get something of value.

At $12 mil/year Andruw is still valuable. It would be great to have him for the rest of his career but we have a potent enough lineup as it is, we need role players like a leadoff hitter and young fireball pitchers for the rotation and the bullpen. This may not be necessarily accomplished by trading Andruw, but may give us pieces that enable us to make other trades. Andruw is only 30 but he is overweight and that is beginning to catch up to him. What I love about him is why he also needs to go, he is just an island kid from Curacao who loves to play ball and have a good time and live life. He didn’t care about getting a bigger contract when he could have had it, he wanted to play where he was comfortable, with Bobby Cox. I laud the man for that, but it just shows he lacks the motivation to stay at the top of his game and as we have seen this year, his health is becoming an issue. He will play CF a maximum of 2 more years effectively and after that who knows. If we can’t sign him for $10 mill a year or less, we have to find the best deal we can and move him. Its too big of a gamble to take to give him $15 mil for 5 or 6 years. This is McCann and Francour’s team now, the Jones era is over and Andruw’s lasting legacy will be how his trade made the Braves a World Series contender again.

By Shaun Payne

September 27, 2006 11:44 PM | Link to this

Emotion gets you in trouble. It would be nice to see AJ finish a Hall of Fame career in a Braves uniform, but the Braves have an opportunity to get two or three quality young players for one player who has likely already peaked and is going to get more expensive.

Players generally do not get better after 30. If it looks like they do, it’s probably because they didn’t get a chance to play in their late 20’s, their numbers are inflated because of their home parks, they are playing in a higher offensive era later in their careers, injuries in what should have been their peak, or a fluke season.

Even players you think of as good “old” players usually aren’t really better after 30.

So, do the Braves ignore evidence and history in favor of emotion (if they can get the right players in return) or do they keep Andruw Jones and miss an opportunity to get younger, cheaper and better?

By scott

September 27, 2006 11:44 PM | Link to this

People will come to games to watch their team win or to see players who they love. Do the Math. Cutting payroll and veteran players (future hall of famers, no less) will never help a ball club; nor will it help their owners make money. Does anyone remember what Atlanta baseball was like in the ’80s?

By Shaun Payne

September 27, 2006 11:46 PM | Link to this

gotigers72,

RBI are very context-dependent. They depend on how often a player is in the lineup, who that player hits behind, etc. Therefore, they aren’t very telling in terms of run creation. Here you go:

http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=2562

By JYD

September 27, 2006 11:52 PM | Link to this

It was even worse in the 70’s.

By MN

September 28, 2006 12:00 AM | Link to this

I agree. You don’t trade a guy on his way to the hall that is in his prime and WANTS to play for your team. It would make more sense to trade guys with similiar salaries that are past their prime and either miss entire seasons or can’t seem to play more than 110 games a season.

Unless you can make a blockbuster like Andruw for Jorge Sosa and a bum to be named later.

By michael

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

we are talking about the WRONG Jones here. Chipper is a bum, keep Andrew and deal Chipper for a bucket of used balls and a rosin bag.

By rob

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

Dear: Someone with some sense,

Trading away the face of the franchise and the best centerfielder in the game is a bad long term investment. The team has excellent young talent. Andruw has 10 more good years, and he is the glue that will hold this team together when Smoltzie takes his swan song. Trade him or let him go in free agency, and the new owners just lost their best asset. I personally would not support the new owners and would just give up baseball. Steriods, ESPN Yankee/Red Sox bias has me turned off already. If the Braves let my hero go, I’m done. And I wont be alone.

So if you think making a business move for more assests is better try diversifying with a portfolio of six $5 per share stocks when the Braves with andruw are a $35 per share stock by itself. Think it through jackass.

By doc

September 28, 2006 12:05 AM | Link to this

andruw has 5 or 6 good years in him by most standards and maybe his best ofensively, he is just coming into his own. the great thing is that there is almost 100% concensus to keep him and an even surer 100% that says this blog ranks or reeks with the worst ideas that any simple “journalistic” mind could come up with.

By Tommy

September 28, 2006 12:14 AM | Link to this

Andrew ain’t the problem, the BRAVES dont have a CLOSER and Hudson has been a bust. He was great with the A’s so it must be the pitching coach or his mechinics have changed, something needs to be figured out there. He needs a head study, to figure out whats has changed.They need to traded who ever it takes to get another closer to go with Wickman then add a starter. The Mets are dogs the Phillies are the team to beat now so they must have more pitching. Pitching WINS regular season games, JS lost about 6-8 games this year because he had no closer. Save Andrew and trade who ever it takes to find a closer and 1 starter. Then the division title comes back to ATL. PS. I said 6-8 weeks ago the Falcons would not win with Mora and Vick. It is showing. This is another 8-8 year probably. Can’t run a college offense in the NFL. The ain’t the backyard, these guys play for cash. So the future of the Falcons is Bleek at best with Vick, great athetle but not a NFL QB. Not in the league with a Carson Palmer type.

By Gene

September 28, 2006 12:15 AM | Link to this

Keep Andruw. Trade Chipper to an American League team where he can be a Designated Hitter, thereby reducing his chance of injury and extending his career. Also, it would free up a sack full of money for more pitching.

By Dan

September 28, 2006 12:16 AM | Link to this

The Braves need a lead off hitter, but they DO NOT need to trade Andruw. Did we not learn anything from the 1975 Dusty Baker trade? The Braves got Jimmy Wynn ( bad arm)Jerry Royster, Tom Piciorek and Lee Lacy for Baker and Ed Goodson. I wish we had kept Dusty. Sound familiar??? The 2006 Braves need tweaking not a major overhaul.They just scored 25 runs in 2 nights against the Division winning Mets. A statement? You bet. We’ll be back in the playoffs next year.

By RJ

September 28, 2006 12:30 AM | Link to this

It pains me to say this, but we should trade Andruw now while we can still get something for him. Unfortunately, $15 million a year is way too much to pay for only consistent defense. Give me a 4 hole hitter who produces with runners in scoring position and doesnt make me cringe every time he swings at an off speed pitch. Andruw has been great for the organization, but there are other players who can fill his void. Defensively ANYONE will be a step back, but that is a tradeoff I’d be willing to make.

By TommyA

September 28, 2006 12:36 AM | Link to this

To the other Tommy. Wickman is the closer they needed. As a Brave he has saved 16 out of 17 games. I say that’s pretty good, considering what’s available. The Braves do need a quality starter, but definitely need a leadoff man. KEEP ANDRUW.

BTW - Vick is not the problem.

By DA FOOT

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

WRONG JONES BOY……THEY SHOULD HAVE TRADED “LARRY” YEARS AGO!!!! IF THEY EVER LET ANDRUW LEAVE, THIS TEAM WOULD BECOME THE ROYALS INSTANTLY. IT’S BAD ENOUGH THAT FOOL GM ALLOWED GLAVINE TO DEFECT TO THE METS. SMOLTZ, ANDRUW, MCCANN, FRANCOEUR,WICKMAN,AND LAROCHE ARE KEEPERS. EVERYONE ELSE, DON’T LET THE DOOR KNOB HIT YA!!!!! TRADE “LARRY” AND THE RUNT GILES TO THE CUBS FOR PIERRE AND RAMIREZ. THAT WOULD SOLVE THE LEAD OFF & THIRD BASE ISSUES.

OH YEAH, BRING BACK ROCKER! (Leo that is!)

By Vs5109

September 28, 2006 12:51 AM | Link to this

I’m a Braves fan, have been my whole life. Throughout the years it didn’t really matter much to me who played on the team. If they had a tomahawk across their chest, I was a fan.

That said, if they trade away the greatest center fielder of my generation I will NEVER watch or support this team again. AJ is a true Brave, and should retire as one.

JS, you want to trade somebody? Make a deal for some of the ole boys…there’s plenty of them to choose from on this team. Leave AJ in center and resign him for years to come.

By andrew horne

September 28, 2006 12:54 AM | Link to this

Trade Andrew?

Did Terrence Moore write this? Why not, that is the trend here in Atlanta to trade away all of our talent for nothing in return. Case in point the Atlanta Hawks w/ the J.R. Rider deal! Falcons w/ L. Kenndey deal. Braves w/ Millwood & Madaux deal.

If you do anything trade Chipper he is a year after year disappointment, except every once in a while. If you trade Andruw you might as well let Chris Risma play all of the starting positions for the Braves…God he sucks! I dont care if I did spell his last name wrong…

By Submariner

September 28, 2006 12:56 AM | Link to this

There can be NO trade of Andruw Jones. They have to get him signed, even if it takes him bypassing Boras again.

By Head Coach

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

This blog should be entitled “BAIT THE FANS WITH ANDRUW AS THE HOOK” It’s an unbelievably stupid idea to even consider. John Schuerholz has got to be laughing in amazement right now.

By E

September 28, 2006 01:25 AM | Link to this

This would be like when the Hawks traded Nique, lost their fan base and still haven’t gotten it back. The Braves aren’t that short-sighted, saving a few million now, would cost them dearly in the long run. Just consult with the Hawks.

By Titothebear

September 28, 2006 01:26 AM | Link to this

It’s always better to ship a player one year too soon, rather than a year too late. I would trade Andruw for the right package of veterans and prospects. He’s been a great player for the Braves for a long time now. I would hate to see him go but if it would bring the right amount of talent, I would do it. I like Andruw’s smile and I’d ,surely, miss that and all his homers and great catches.

By Kevin

September 28, 2006 01:38 AM | Link to this

If Andruw doesn’t retire a Brave, they’ll trade this fan with him. Chipper should go before Andruw. Andruw choose Atlanta, when he could have demanded a much bigger contract. What pro is that loyal?

By DEAN JONES

September 28, 2006 01:43 AM | Link to this

By Kentavo

September 28, 2006 01:44 AM | Link to this

I say keep him for 2007 - when he’ll put up “contract” numbers and let him walk after the season. Or, if we’re out of contention before the deadline, then trade him. He’s too inconsistent and is a poster child for the Braves bad habits at the plate and lack of 100 percent hustle.

By Wedgie Evans

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

What to do about Andruw? Give him a 10-year extension and trade Chipper to get the money back. You don’t trade guys who hit 40 HRs, 120 RBIs and play the best defensive center field since Willie Mays, especially when they have at least 10 years left in them — that’s just retarded.

By Head Coach

September 28, 2006 04:17 AM | Link to this

Again , I must speak directly to the idiocracy that is prompting the question of trading Andruw Rudolf Jones. Before the age of 30 , Willie Mays hit 279 home runs and drove in 812 RBI with four gold gloves to boot. After the age of 30 Mays hit 381 home runs with 1113 RBI and eight more gold gloves to boot. Andruw is 29 years of age……….. with 341 homeruns 1021 RBI and eight gold gloves. Will you geniuses please pull your collective heads out of your collective butts and smell the stink that you are espousing ???

By Norm

September 28, 2006 04:27 AM | Link to this

If it is time to deal one of the Jones boys, I’d really let Chipper go first. He doesn’t win 10 games a year with his fielding (more is Glavine and Maddux were still here) and he’d be a natural DH for some AL team.

By TONE-TONE

September 28, 2006 04:38 AM | Link to this

J.S. should trade the Braves to the Royals, but keep Smoltz and Andrew. Then he should trade Smoltz for Jose Canseco. Trade Andrew for Dan Kolb. This would guarantee a last place finish. They would be out of the race by April 10th,2007. Also, they would get to draft 4 little leaguers. They will go right into the starting line-up. Finally, J.S. could rest in peace.

By Drew

September 28, 2006 05:25 AM | Link to this

Are you kidding me?

The guy hits 40+ homers a year, well over 100 rbis a year. He plays center field like no-one ever has. He plays hard, he plays every day. He bypassed his agent and took a huge home-town discount to stay here.

and people are even considering trading him?

If he goes, I go with him (unless he goes to the Yankees!)

By ofcblackmon

September 28, 2006 05:39 AM | Link to this

your trading the wrong jones. get rid of chipper, i dont know if anyone notices how the team plays better with chip out of the lineup. trade chipper, and a couple of the has been pitchers for some younger guys. build the team around adruw,jeff,mccann,and adam,let orr and aybar split time at third and bat lead off. heck you could even trade giles for better bullpen help. the problem is not andruw it is pitching and chippers lack of hustle attitude.we should have traded chipper instead of betemit.

By cs

September 28, 2006 06:50 AM | Link to this

What to do about Andruw? Keep him as long as you can. The person who asked this question should be given a drug test.

By Tracie

September 28, 2006 07:11 AM | Link to this

No you don’t trade Andruw. You work to resign him and get rid of the real dead weight, that being the other Jones, Chipper. Andruw is ONLY 30 and he loves the game. He also wants to stay a brave. Let them work out a deal.

Chipper on the other hand has been in decline for three years now. Next year I doubt he will play even half the season. Take the real dead weight off the club and get a true hitting coach. Restructure the hitting. Lets for once have pitching and hitting at the same time.

By billy g

September 28, 2006 07:11 AM | Link to this

The question should be: What kind of team should the Braves be? Are we going to have a consistent winner, like the Yankees or Red Sox? Or do we want to be like the Marlins?

If you want to be like the Yankees, you keep Andru. If you use the Marlins’ model, you trade him for quality minor league pitching.

Shuerholtz seems to be undecided. And that is what is holding this team back.

By jjgrogan

September 28, 2006 07:18 AM | Link to this

Increase the budget, keep Andrew, bolster the pitching staff, get a lead off hitter, win the World Series, get a FANTASTIC return on your investment! Good business and good baseball!!!

By Don

September 28, 2006 07:22 AM | Link to this

No. Andruw won’t be 30 until next April. he should have eight or more more very productive years as he builds his H of F credentials. As the numbers mount, he will become more of a drawing card.

The odds of trading for another young Smoltz are slim.

Dump whomever you want but not Andruw.

By Judith Ridley

September 28, 2006 07:23 AM | Link to this

Keep Andruw and trade Chipper, he spends more time on the injuired list anyway.

By Randy Howard

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

What idiot came up with this question? The answer is the same as it has been every single time this same idiot has asked this same question; “NO”; go pick up a copy of Baseball for Dummies, you dummy and refresh yourself with the objectives of the game and then tell me who on the team accomplishes these objectives better than Andru. Geez!!!

By Retch

September 28, 2006 07:34 AM | Link to this

It’s simple if you can sign him to a extension keep him. If not you have to trade him. To let him leave and only receive draft picks would be stupid!

By calvin

September 28, 2006 07:37 AM | Link to this

Sure, trade the best player on the team who rivals as the best Center fielder to ever play the game and a lock as a hall of fame inductee.

For all those who don’t have a clue, you don’t trade All-Stars in their prime and you don’t trade Hall of Fame players ever.

Pay whatever it takes to re-sign him.

Calvin

By Koz

September 28, 2006 07:40 AM | Link to this

Trading Andruw would go over as well as trading Dale Murphy and Dominique Wilkins did.

By whoever

September 28, 2006 08:02 AM | Link to this

Calvin….how soon you forget who runs the team…the tight strings on the purse arent going to give andruw what he thinks he’s worth….the reality of it is, yes he’s a good CF (best ever? not a chance in hell) but with the free agent market the way it is, you know he’s gonna want $15-18 mil a season…and lets face it…the drop down to your back knee swing, almost fall down, get up, and JOG to first base (and im being nice by considering that LAZY trot as a jog) just isnt worth the money.

bottom line is this….since you know he’s going to be IMPOSSIBLE to re-sign at the end of 07, go ahead and trade him now so you can get something for him…

By Kaye

September 28, 2006 08:03 AM | Link to this

I’d keep Andruw - he is a class act. Who I WOULD get rid of is Chipper Jones. What a cry baby he is!!!!!!!! And oh so fragile. Pfft. He just wants the big bucks and some glory and could care less about the team. He’s worse than Doug Horner was and that was pitiful. Keep Andruw forever.

By jeff

September 28, 2006 08:06 AM | Link to this

andruw jones will never be any better than he is right now, nor more valuable, so NOW is the time to trade him in order to get maximum return. haven’t the braves learned that PITCHING is how you win? with great pitching, you don’t need all-star postion players, and they certainly cannot afford to invest one-fifth of their payroll in one player.

By Dan Carter

September 28, 2006 08:13 AM | Link to this

Andruw Jones should remain a Brave until he retires.

He grew up a Brave and has helped to win many a Brave title over the years.

To trade him would be as bad as trading Chipper, Smoltz, Maddox or Glavine…Opps. We’ve already traded too many Hall of Fame players that made the Braves’ record run one of the most memorable in franchise history.

Remember what happened when Boston traded one of it’s most popular players.

By whoever

September 28, 2006 08:15 AM | Link to this

Thank you Jeff….finally someone who hasnt been hittin’ the sauce this early in the morning. I’ve been on the trade Andruw wagon for years.

It doesn’t matter how good your centerfielder is if your pitcher cant keep the ball in the park.

Pitching, pitching, pitching. It’s what got them 14 straight and they wont win another one until they get some more pitching.

By whoever

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

DAN CARTER…..of the players you named (chipper, smoltz, maddux (maddux is spelled with a U not an O), or glavine)

please enlighten me as to which ones we TRADED?

By Shaun

September 28, 2006 08:24 AM | Link to this

It depends on who they can get. If the Braves can get two or three good, young, cheap players, they should pull the trigger on a AJones deal. Players generally peak in their late 20’s. Jones is not likely to get better, but he will get more expensive. Trading Jones would be wise, if they can get two or three players worth about 1/3-1/2 of the wins of AJ at a cheaper price.

According to the Hardball Times, AJ has been worth 7.66 wins this season. That means, if the Braves can get three players worth 2.55 wins a piece or two players worth about 3.83 wins a piece for much less money than you pay Andruw Jones, who is just one player, the Braves will be much better off. That’s basically two players in the Matt Diaz, Ryan Langerhans, Chuck James range. Then they can spend the extra money they save on even more quality players.

http://www.sabernomics.com/sabernomics/index.php/2004/03/age-and-batting-performance-in-mlb/ http://www.hardballtimes.com/thtstats/main/index.php?view=winshares&linesToDisplay=50&orderBy=total&direction=DESC&seasonfilter%5B%5D=2006&teamfilter%5B%5D=ATL&pos_filter%5B%5D=All&Submit=Submit

By T Robb

September 28, 2006 08:30 AM | Link to this

Well, DOB, I’d say public sentiment is ever-so-slightly tilted toward keeping Andruw.

By Koz

September 28, 2006 08:31 AM | Link to this

Kaye - who is Doug Horner? Did you mean Bob Horner?

By Shaun

September 28, 2006 08:33 AM | Link to this

If the Braves get what they’ll likely ask for and the are smart about it, it would be very difficult for them to make a bad trade for Andruw Jones. There aren’t many players throughout baseball history who aren’t worth two or three quality players. Andruw, as great as he is, is still worth less than two or three very good players.

Exhibit A: A.J. Pierzynski for Joe Nathan, Francisco Liriano and Boof Bonser. I know this is an extreme example but it represents the possibilities of what could happen if Scherholz has the guts and brains to trade AJones for the right players.

By Koz

September 28, 2006 08:35 AM | Link to this

Shaun - Nice formula but common sense tells me that its much easier to get one player worth 7.66 wins into the lineup than it is gettting 3 players in the lineup, at the same time, worth 2.55 wins a piece.

Now if it was legal to play more than 9 people at a time then your formula might be worth something.

By Jeff

September 28, 2006 08:35 AM | Link to this

His price tag is too high for a club that needs to rebuild its pitching staff with good, young arms. I’d shop him to see if the team could pry loose some solid young pitching talent.

By bsmith

September 28, 2006 08:39 AM | Link to this

his numbers do not lie…..avg. is down but other numbers are very good………defense??he’s worth at least one run per game……….he is part of the solution, not the problem….we will be playing in october next year…..go braves……..long time die hard fan…

By mesmo

September 28, 2006 08:52 AM | Link to this

An $80Mil payroll limit and lots of older players who demand big bucks. Very soon now the current young phenoms will be due for raises. Something has to give. Biggest need? Starting pitching. So…

Attempt to trade Hudson, Thompson, Hampton, and Horacio for young pitching. Attempt to trade Chipper to the AL for young pitching. Attempt to trade Giles for young pitching.

Leave the outfield (including Andruw) alone. Install Orr or Pena as the leadoff hitter at second. Give Aybar a shot at third. This will add badly needed team speed to go along with the young power hitters.

In a few years the likes of Francour, La Roche, McCann, and Diaz will make most of the money (until the new young pitching comes of age). Elvis will take Renteria’s place at shortstop when his current contract expires.

Keep Smoltz and Chuck James. All the other starters are highly suspect. Keep Wickman, Devine, Paronto, Yates, Mackay, and hope that some of the relievers on the DL get well and challenge for a spot.

Alternate more than one player in the cleanup spot. When Andruw is in one of those long funks, striking out 3 or 4 times a game for weeks, sit him down for a couple of games or move him down to 6th or 7th. Regard him as a 150 game player from now on instead of an iron man (which he no longer can be if he is to play 5 more years).

It’s a pretty good team right now, lots of young bats and overall defense. But there is also lots of age on the payroll. Leadership? Yes. Long stints on the DL for aging vets? No. Hard choices.

I will be sad to see Larry Wayne go, one hell of ball player, GOOD hitter, love to watch him torque the ball out of the park, potential Hall of Famer. But he is best suited as a DH these days, bad wheels don’t go away. Either DH or DL…

By braves fan

September 28, 2006 08:54 AM | Link to this

What I’d like to know is what’s going on with the sale of the team? How can the Braves plan for the future without knowing what level they’ll be able to operate at when the new ownership takes over? If nothing changes with the ownership situation before next season, I think Schuerholz should operate under the assumption that they should load up to win it all next year and the year after that, and not worry too much about the future. Because I don’t think Schuerholz and Cox will be here more than 3 or 4 years. They need to squeeze as much winning out of Smoltz and the Jones’ as they can before the whole leadership retires. Trading Andruw is a mistake. There are no 40 HR, 130 RBI, gold glove centerfielders on the market that will come cheaper than Andruw. And any pitchers they may get in return will be young prospects, not ready to win. So I don’t see any scenario that makes it okay to trade him. Now if they had some young phenom prospect in the minors (like a 19 year old AJ) that was ready to make the leap up, that’s something to consider. But as far as I know, there are no players like that on the farm. If there were, they’d already be on the big league club playing LF, just like AJ did in 1996.

By Shaun

September 28, 2006 08:55 AM | Link to this

Koz,

Well, players like Matt Diaz and Ryan Langerhans and Chuck James were worth that many wins this season and they weren’t in the lineup every game.

By Shaun

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

Trading Chipper would be great, but who’s going to give up any young players of value for him? He’s more expensive than Andruw and he’s older. Andruw’s more tradable for quality pieces.

By Sid Vicious

September 28, 2006 09:11 AM | Link to this

TRADE HIM-TRADE HIM-TRADE HIM

You guys sound like the kid at Christmas who wants everything. Braves ownership is spending less and Andruw is not worth 20% of the payroll. He is a superior outfielder but his hitting is very streaky and rarely is it clutch. He racks up stats in blowout games and then goes 0-4 in close games. We need pitching, not an older guy falling down because he’s swinging too hard.

By Katie

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

The only person that needs to leave Atlanta is Bobby Cox!

By George

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

Yes, we should trade who is prehaps the greatest centerfielder in the history of the game, consistantly drives in 100 runs each year and plays almost every day with or without injury. My only question would be who would replace him? To serious fans of the game baseball is more than money and to the most loyal of us more than winning. Andruw Jones is not only a great player and potential Hall of Famer but has demonstrated over and again his loyalty to this organization. Let Andrew go? What a dumb question to even ask.

By Ken

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

There is now way you trade either Jones. If you go to a game at Turner Field, Chipper gets the loudest cheers, followed by Andruw and Smoltz. I think letting any one of them go will greatly affect the fan base. If the owners believe what they preach: “it is a business”, they will realize that no butts in the seats is bad business. All three should retire as Braves, when it is time.

By Shaun

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

Is it better to have Andruw Jones and a lot of average or below average players? Or is it better to have an above average CF and a lineup full of above average players?

Exhibit B: Alex Rodriguez. The Mariners won more after he was gone because they didn’t have to use up most of their payroll for 10-13 wins a year. Same with Texas. They could spread the wealth, getting a higher quantity of quality players.

Trading Andruw is about payroll and roster efficiency.

By Jonathan Lowery

September 28, 2006 09:19 AM | Link to this

We can’t trade Andruw for one simple reason: He has been too loyal to our organization.

For the last ten years he has gave us everything he has, he’s never complained about being under paid. He just came to the ball park, did his job and that’s it.

Andruw gave us the home town discount the first time, we can’t possible expect that to happen again.

Imagine if we do trade him, what does that tell all the young players coming up in the organization? “If you give us ten years and do more than you are asked to do we’re just gonna wait till you hit your prime and trade you, then tell everybody it’s because you are old at 30”

It’s time for “the homeboy upstairs” to man up and show everybody the organization appreciates what Andruw has done for us, we are confident he will continue to do it and we want him to retire a brave!

By Jeff

September 28, 2006 09:20 AM | Link to this

You’ve got to keep Andrew. Not only does he hit for power, his defense is easily worth 1 run per game to the pitching staff. You replace him in CF with someone else, and watch the team ERA rise.

By Gena

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

Andruw needs to STAY! He is a Brave - just like Smoltz. Andruw Rocks!

By whoever

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

I agree Shaun…..we wouldnt be able to get Jack She-Aut for ole man Larry Jones…..unless we could trade him to an AL team and say ‘here ya go, here’s a DH for ya, but watch out for his obliques!’ but still what we get in return wouldnt exactly be a high dollar player…probably some young prospect, or another middle aged pitcher….

Andruw is better trade material simply because he will bring us something better in return.

By tim

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

The Twins are not giving up there best young pitcher. People will only offer unproven rookies in AA, AAA ball who are unlikely to be stars in the majors. We need to get starting pitching by developing it in our minor leaague system not trading our best player. He is the best everyday player we have. No way I trade him.

By Randy Rainwater

September 28, 2006 09:29 AM | Link to this

This is a no-brainer, of course we keep him! I am not worried about this team, we had a down year due to major injuries and a roughed up bullpen. With Jeff, Brian and the rest of the young guns, a healthy Chipper and the pitching staff healthy, we will be back! Don’t mess with the team, what they need are trainers not general managers to get them in the World Series.

By John

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

How old was Maguire, Bonds and Sosa went they had their monster home run seasons? How many home runs have they hit after they were Thirty? Andruw is not worth giving up. Why can’t the payroll go up.Ticket prices and braves items sure have.

By Jeff

September 28, 2006 09:34 AM | Link to this

Let’s do the math. The Braves are forced by their ownership to build a contender on an $80 million dollar budget. A. Jones makes $13.5 million next season, or accounts for 17% of the total payroll. May not seem like much, but management only has $66.5 million for the rest of the roster. Given Smoltz, Hampton and Hudson, the dollars dry up even more.

This team needs pitching, and more pitching—young pitching to make this team competitive for a while. A. Jones and M. Giles are the best trade bait to acquire young guns (Hudson might attract the interest of a Boston, St. Louis or NYY).

Finally, it’s near a crime that the Braves have only an $80 million dollar annual payroll. The Atlanta market is big and merits an investment from ownership that reflects its size and high profile. Miami and Pittsburgh may be developing some solid talent, but because of lack of dollars, they either have to trade or let go of those players when they hit the six-year mark.

By Savannah Guy

September 28, 2006 09:34 AM | Link to this

Keep Andruw, Chipper and everyone else possible. There are times in every major league sport that teams can’t overcome multiple injuries. The Braves have been very lucky in that regard…until this year.

Next March let’s see which players have kept themselves fit, who’s in shape and let Spring Training sort’em out. With everyone healthy next year the Braves will be a better team, resulting in more choices for JS, more wins for the team and, who knows, start another string of division titles.

To the naysayers: one bad year doesn’t discount 14 years of winning, even if they only have one ring. If it was that easy to repeat, we would be watching the White Sox or the Red Sox play the Cardinals or Houston this year.

By Brian S

September 28, 2006 09:34 AM | Link to this

I am sick of losing great players to other teams and then bringing in bums who can’t get the job done.

There are a lot of players on this years team who are legitimate trade bait or toss aways. leave Jones alone and try to find or trade for another “leader”.

We have enough cry babies that won’t play with a sore thumb!

By M: devoted fan

September 28, 2006 09:38 AM | Link to this

Trade Andruw? You’d have to be effing nuts!There is not enough out there to make up for losing him. My God, we would have to score five or more runs a game if Andruw were not patrolling the outfield with his easy grace and style and instincts, not to mention losing his 120+ RBIs, the home runs, the reliability, the loyalty, the overall good guy-ness…. See what you can get for the Chipster and Giles and leave Andruw the hell alone.

By whoever

September 28, 2006 09:40 AM | Link to this

since when does loyalty come in to “business”. If it is in fact a business, then you have to see things as a business move…not whether or not someone is loyal or not.

Was Glavine “loyal” to the braves for all those years…yes, right up until the day management didnt want to pony up the money he wanted and how loyal was he when he signed with the Mets…..

If you think there is any “loyality” left in baseball then youre a damn fool….. Curt Flood changed all that. The only person a baseball player is loyal to, is to himself.

By Shaun

September 28, 2006 09:43 AM | Link to this

tim,

Who said anything about trading Andruw Jones for the Twins best young pitcher? With all due respect, I think you need to read the post a little more carefully.

And, actually almost every top hitting propsect becomes something in the major leagues. Pitching’s a different story.

Go do a Google search for the Baseball America top 100 prospects of 2000. Almost all the top hitters have become at least somewhat productive in the major leagues and many of them are stars.

By Steve P

September 28, 2006 09:43 AM | Link to this

I keep hearing we can not afford to sign Andruw but in his last contract he took below market rate money. Why can we not afford to pay him what he is already making? The budget stays the same.

If you want to trade someone, trade Chipper. He is a whining scum bag as it is. At least Andruw comes to play with a smile on his face and never ever complains. That’s the guy I want to build my team arround, not Chipper.

By Shaun

September 28, 2006 09:47 AM | Link to this

Trading Andruw Jones

Exhibit A: Twins trade A.J. Pierzynski to the Giants for Joe Nathan, Francisco Liriano and Boof Bonser. This is an extreme example but it represents the possibilities of what could happen if Scherholz has the guts and brains to trade AJones for the right players.

Exhibit B: Alex Rodriguez. The Mariners won more after he was gone because they didn’t have to use up most of their payroll for 10-13 wins a year. Same with Texas. They could spread the wealth, getting a higher quantity of quality players.

By H_Charles

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

Jeff, you need to realize great pitching also requires great defense. The Braves pitching has been so dominant over the years in large part to their excellent positioning of defenders and their excellent glove work. Jones is the cornerstone of that defense, and he is probably worth close to a full point of team ERA with his ability not only to take away gappers and homers, but also play shallow enough to take away loopers and liners. There has NEVER been a more meaningful CF on defense in the history of the game than Andruw. Notice how the Braves ERA has skyrocketed this year. It is no coincidence that massive defensive problems surfaced in LF and 3rd base, not to mention the loss of Furcal’s range and increased boneheaded plays from LaRoche and Frenchy. There is no doubt we need better arms, but dealing Andruw would be taking 1 step forward while taking another 2 back.

By Frasier

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

Keep Andruw. Renegotiate his contract. He would pay Atlanta to stay with the club and Bobby Cox. Try to sell the other Jones to a sports clinic.

By Shaun

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

Trading Andruw is not about whether the Braves can afford him or the fact that he’s a great player. It’s about payroll and roster efficiency.

Would you rather drive a Mercedes and live in a shack with dirt floors or would you rather drive a Civic and live in a nice house furnished with plenty of nice things?

Trading Andruw could give the Braves a higher quantity of quality at a cheaper price…it could if Schuerholz trades him for the right players. And I think he can.

If he can’t get the right player, then the Braves shouldn’t trade him.

By JB

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

It’s ridiculous to even have this discussion. Andruw Jones is one of the best players in the game. He doesn’t miss many games during the season, gives you great defense, good power production and is always a threat in the middle of the lineup. Now, if you want to look at unloading salary, why not move Chipper? He’s been hurt consistently for the past 2 years!! Can he hit? Absolutely! But that’s about all. He’s been back and forth between 3rd base and left and has been a liability in both positions. He’s never been your number 1 defensive option in either position. Even this year they traded their #1 defensive 3rd baseman (Wilson Betimet) and kept Chipper, who immediately, was injured the same day it was announced!! Again, Andruw is your #1 center fielder, by far, and a great power threat at the plate. Trade Chipper and re-stock your pitching staff.

By Rodger

September 28, 2006 10:04 AM | Link to this

Mailing address for the keep Andruw fund…

Great comparison to Mays, HeadCoach. I think that shows you have to make some allowances in what it will take to keep him. The “hometown discount” in reference to Drew and Sheffield fail to take into account these were not hometown players. And like it or not, when the Yanks and Dodgers start tossing out the money they do (see Furcal) its ridiculous and impossible to compete. That said, I think AJ has shown willingness to compromise, although if you remember at the time he signed, most people thought Andruw was being overpaid!

By Shaun

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

H_Charles,

The Hardball Times estimates AJones’s defense has been worth just under 2 wins this season.

http://www.hardballtimes.com/thtstats/main/index.php?view=winshares&linesToDisplay=50&orderBy=total&direction=DESC&seasonfilter%5B%5D=2006&teamfilter%5B%5D=ATL&pos_filter%5B%5D=All&Submit=Submit

Does that indicate the Braves would be much worse defensively without AJ?

By Charles

September 28, 2006 10:14 AM | Link to this

WHY EVEN ASK THE QUESTION OF LETTING ANDRUW GO? Trade Chipper if you need to unload some cash. He stays hurt the last I can’t count how mant seasons. I really don’t like the idea of the outfield without Andruw. Scarrrryyyyyy!!!!!!! By the way he’ll be a HALL OF FAMER for sure…

By Shaun

September 28, 2006 10:15 AM | Link to this

JB,

Trading Chipper would be great, but who’s going to give up any 2-3 quality young players for him? He’s older and more expensive than Andruw Jones. I’m not saying it’s a sure thing, but it’s much more likely that a team will give up 2-3 quality players for Andruw Jones.

By Johnny

September 28, 2006 10:16 AM | Link to this

The way to fix the Braves? Not by getting rid of superstars like Andruw or budding superstars like Betemit (which will go down as the most short-sighted deal the GM ever made)—its the way we got there to begin with: pitching. Get starting pitching that will allow our great-hitting position players to win ball games and get a decent set up man. Getting rid of Jones will cost you his runs at the plate plus additional runs for our opponents in the way of center field fly balls that will start falling in for base hits.

By NC-Bill

September 28, 2006 10:16 AM | Link to this

Andruw is a 10 and 5 player now! He has stated that he will not accept a trade. So what is all the speculation about? The question is should the Braves try to resign him?

By Rodger

September 28, 2006 10:17 AM | Link to this

You guys bashing Chipper should also remember he went to homeboy last offseason and gave up money to get a closer! You don’t see much of that from anyone in sports, especially not from “greedy” “scum bag”s

By scott

September 28, 2006 10:17 AM | Link to this

Do not trade him!! Middle pitching should be the focus. Hampton comes back next year. So with Smoltz, Hudson, Rameriez and Davies and Hampton thats not a bad 5. Middle relief is where the problem lied all year. 2/3rds of the outfield has almost 210 rbi’s for the season. Langerhans and Diaz dont even come close to that as a platoon. Maybe even try to bring back Maddux as a free agent to let Davies learn from the best.

By Dick

September 28, 2006 10:21 AM | Link to this

Keep Andrew, trade Chipper, rid self of Brian Jordan, John Thompson, Tim Hudson, and entire bull pen with exception of Whitman.

By Grumpy

September 28, 2006 10:21 AM | Link to this

I say AJ stays and Schuerholz goes. If anyone has lost his touch, it’s our GM. Furcal, Betemit, and Franco were bid adios by Schuerholz’ crystal ball. Why should we have any faith at all in his cracked judgment?

By Rodger

September 28, 2006 10:22 AM | Link to this

Shaun I must be reading wrong-your chart suggests Aj defense worth 5.1 wins? Of course, it would also indicate the Braves won 224 games this year!

By Shaun

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

WHY EVEN ASK THE QUESTION OF LETTING ANDRUW GO? Trade Chipper if you need to unload some cash. He stays hurt the last I can’t count how mant seasons. I really don’t like the idea of the outfield without Andruw. Scarrrryyyyyy!!!!!!! By the way he’ll be a HALL OF FAMER for sure…

Well, because you aren’t going to get the talent for Chipper that you could get for Andruw.

Is it really that scarry to imagine the Braves loaded with young talent around the same age as McCann and Francouer? That’s what could happen if they trade AJ for the right players.

By Anthony

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

Trade Andruw. You have got to be kidding. You should look to third base where you have an aging player who is constantly hurt and out of the line up. If I am not mistaken, Andruw has played more games than any player in MLB since the late ninties and is probably the best defensive player over that span, as well as hitting home runs and driving in runs. Give me a break!

By Shaun

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

Johnny,

Let’s see Aybar has a better BB/K rate and more speed than Betemit throughout thier pro careers (major and minor leagues). Aybar can play 2B, while Betemit is really just a 3B. Betemit was stuck behind Chipper and Renteria and doesn’t have much offensive value as a 3B or much defensive value as a SS. He’s probably going to be very overvalued as soon as he’s arbitration elligible. I can’t see where that was a bad trade.

By Shaun

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

Shaun I must be reading wrong-your chart suggests Aj defense worth 5.1 wins? Of course, it would also indicate the Braves won 224 games this year!

5.1 Win Shares. 224 Win Shares

A Win Share is 1/3 of a win.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Win_shares

By Randy

September 28, 2006 10:34 AM | Link to this

Why would an organization trade the best player they have? To get a better player? Get rid of some of the overpaid pitchers that arent playing, at least we get something for our money.

By Freddy

September 28, 2006 10:36 AM | Link to this

Keep him…..lets be loyal. he is a future ‘hall of famer’….he’s the best center fielder in the game.

By Tony

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

I hope the Braves do trade him…that way I will not have to watch that listless team play. Chipper will pay about 70 games next year, LaRoache is just as streaky as Jones, but next year he will be even slower. Wow…and he’s only a 1year and some months younger than AJ. Atlanta is known as one one of the worse sportstown in the country and with articles like this I understand why…

Just idiotic. JS is not Billy Beane. And I think Atlanta has a little more money than Oakland…

By Shaun

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

Why would an organization trade the best player they have? To get a better player? Get rid of some of the overpaid pitchers that arent playing, at least we get something for our money.

Again, you could actually get some quantity and quality for Andruw Jones. You aren’t going to get the same for Mike Hampton or someone like that. No one is going to give up quality players, especially quality young players, for Mike Hampton.

By By DB

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

First to worst is still going on with trading our best players for has beens or injury prone others, and they wonder why we groan at the thought of losing Andruw, come on get real, he’s worth every penny they pay him. What about the other Jones boy that stays hurt all of the time, nobody want him, huh!

By John Adams

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

On many occasions I made the statment that it is worth going to a Braves game just to see Andruw play the outfield. It is hard to put a value on the nimber of runs he prevents in 9 innings. Bottom line, the Brave’s pitching staff needs Andruw too badly for them to let him go. The team’s era would be at least another point higher without him in center field. His presence in the batting order in front of Chipper also lets Chipper see alot more pitches.

By Kelley

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

If you are trading someone with the last name Jones make it Chipper and send Hudson with him. The four players taking up the majority of the payroll are Chipper, Hudson, Smoltz, and Andruw. Andruw and Smoltz are the only two who actually earned their money this season.

No way do you trade Andruw Jones.
He absolutely loves the Braves and Bobby Cox. I read a quote from Andruw this week that basically said yes we are out of the playoffs, but we still have six games at home where fans who supported us all year are going to pay to be there to watch, so we need to play hard for them. Why is there any question about keeping Andruw with his ability and loyalty to the fans and the organization?
It’s a no brainer. I hope he doesn’t get traded. I will lose some serious faith in Schureholz.

By whoever

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

Hey DICK….who’s “Whitman”….i know of a big guy that comes out of the bullpen named “wickman”.

everyone keeps saying, lets trade chipper, lets trade chipper….i’d like to get rid of him too….but lets be honest with each other….what in the world do you think we would get for Chipper Jones? Certainly not anything like we could get for Andruw.

You people want to keep a player that eats up 18% of the payroll and trade an old man with bad obliques and a worse foot. Fact of the matter is, no GM anywhere is gonna give you 1 good young pitcher, much less multiple young prospects.

By Shaun

September 28, 2006 10:44 AM | Link to this

Tony,

Who says Atlanta is one of the worst sports towns? How do you define that?

And it’s not about how much money the Braves have. It’s good to be efficient with payroll and roster spots no matter how much money you have (see Boston in the late ‘90’s-early ‘00’s or Baltimore).

By Justin

September 28, 2006 10:45 AM | Link to this

Why in the hell would you trade the best hitter on the team? This is nothing more than typical AJC Press trying to stir up controversy.

By TommyA

September 28, 2006 10:45 AM | Link to this

I can’t understand why everyone is so down on Chipper. The guy keeps giving up money so the organization can sign other players, which is extremely rare in today’s moneyball game. He has a .305 career batting avg. and is consistantly around 100 RBI each year. For those that say he is a cry baby, when have you seen him crying? For those who say he is not a leader, watch closely at who it is the young guys go to in the dugout. True fans know that the problem is not Chipper or Andruw. The real problem this year has been pitching and lack of a true leadoff hitter.

By CK

September 28, 2006 10:45 AM | Link to this

Resign Jones now. Ride out the Hampton contract and then that will free up some cash. Hones is the anchor of this team. He is still young enough to build a franchise around and experienced to help younger players to improve.

Pitching is certainly a top priority as well but giving up the cornerstone of the team is too large of a gamble.

The only way I would give up Jones is if the players in return are a Liriano and Ryan Howard type of player. Young and full of talent and potential.

The Braves are not a bad team. They are only a couple of pitchers away and with Hampton coming back next season along with the emergence of James and Davies our staff is not that far off. Smoltz and Hudson still have tremendous talent and can anchor the staff. Another plus is Ramirez.

The reason the Braves fell off pace this year is they hesitated in signing a clotch closer. They would have been in the thick of the race if they hadn’t given up so many late inning leads. Give this team good health and lets see what happens.

If you trade Jones then you may as well pull a Florida Marlins and start all over again. Let the payroll be the deciding factor in who plays and who leaves. I think the braves JS is too smart too roll the dice in his last years as Gm and wants to go out withn another Championship. That is impossible without the Jones boys tandem as offensive anchors.

By james abare

September 28, 2006 10:48 AM | Link to this

I think the Braves need to keep Andrew, they already have what they needed this year and that is a closer. If they would have had a closer from the beginning, they would be the NL east champions once again this year. What the Braves really need is a dam owner that will spend a little more money then what is spent now. They need to have this for a 2007 lineup- Aybar leading off playing 2nd base, Renteria at SS, Chipper hitting third, Jones clean-up, McCann, 5th, pick up a LF power hitter, then Francour, then Laroche, pithcer. They will have Smoltz, Hudson, Hampton(is back), Chucky James, and Davies, for rotation, and get bullpen help here and there, AND GET A DAM PITCHING COACH THAT CAN COACH

By marcus

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

The Braves will get rid of another good player of color. Furcal, Betemit, Dye……If Chipper was black he would have been dismissed years ago.

By Savannah Guy

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

Next Year’s Roster Suggestion

So many suggestions for next year’s roster. Most of them are myopic. Have any of you considered trading Andruw, Chipper, Frenchy, McCann, Rochey, Smoltzy, Huddy, Renteria and Wickman. We don’t need those guys. Fill in with all our new rookie talent. Hampton and Thompson will anchor the starting staff. Pickup Pedro Martinez for our ace. Pickup Kenny Lofton as our new center fielder we can build around. Do we even need a catcher?

By CK

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

Hey Kelley I think you left out Hampton as a big gulper in the Braves salary woes.

By Gregg

September 28, 2006 10:54 AM | Link to this

I have loved watching Andruw play for 10 years, but let’s be real people - he will NOT be signed next year with Scott Boras as his agent. Let’s get some good pitching and a speedy CF who can leadoff and steal bases for him (which would be very feasible), and get something for him while we can. Thanks for the memories, Andruw, but while you hit for power and show great defense, your average has always been…well, average - and we all need to realize that you’re a one-year Brave at this point with who your agent is.

By Shaun

September 28, 2006 10:54 AM | Link to this

The real problem this year has been pitching and lack of a true leadoff hitter.

Let’s see, the Braves are near the top of the NL in runs scored…yep, no “true leadoff hitter” has really hurt.

By Train Wreck Bystander

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

If it were my decision to make, I’d keep AJ. He gave us a discount last time around. We should do him right this time around.

By H2F

September 28, 2006 11:00 AM | Link to this

I just love the comments about player loyalty.

In my eyes, Glavine was not loyal to the Braves. No, the Braves didn’t offer as much as the Mets, but Glavine didn’t have to take the offer. Does he really need that extra money?

All these players are beyond filthy rich in my eyes. Once upon a time, players had to work a second job to make ends meet. Now, I see them all over television flashing the 18 Bentleys they own and the 47 pairs of Gucci shoes in their closets.

If Andruw were really loyal and really concerned about the team, he’d restructure his contract. He has to have more money than he needs. Same for Chipper, Smoltz, and all the other top guys.

I also don’t see the day-to-day hustle with Andruw the rest of you do. He’s an excellent athlete, no doubt. But there are many times he strikes out in key situations trying to hit that homer (the only way you can get on ESPN). Sometimes he doesn’t run out grounders.*

If the Braves could get an excellent deal for him, trade him.

Oh, in Braves history, the Len Barker trade was much worse than the one that sent away Dale Murphy. On the flip side, trading one young Jimmy Kremers turned out to be pretty beneficial, too.

• I could say the same things about Marcus Giles, but that’s another topic.

By Shaun

September 28, 2006 11:03 AM | Link to this

If you trade Jones then you may as well pull a Florida Marlins and start all over again. Let the payroll be the deciding factor in who plays and who leaves. I think the braves JS is too smart too roll the dice in his last years as Gm and wants to go out withn another Championship. That is impossible without the Jones boys tandem as offensive anchors.

It depends on who they get.

By Ted

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

Offer Andruw his 13.5 million for the next 5 or 6 years. His father will strongly suggest he take it.

By O LEE REED

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

I would trade Andruw for a legal studies book and one night with Karl the Kat.

By CK

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

Shaun… You have a point….it does depend on who they get…Who do you see as the most likely trade scenario that JS would gamble this teams future on?

By CS

September 28, 2006 11:15 AM | Link to this

Does this name sound familiar? Jermaine Dye. Stop the stupid trades and get rid of the real problems

By whoever

September 28, 2006 11:15 AM | Link to this

HEY MARCUS……what took you so long to throw the race card in there….ive been waiting for it all morning….youre an idiot if you think the color of a players skin has anything to do with whether or not they re-sing them or trade them…..i guess Maddux and Glavine must have had some mulato in them and the front office found out about it and thats why we didnt re-sign them…

good theory marcus, but unfortunatly for you, not everything is about race.

By CK

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

Just think if Boston would have accepted JS demands for Crisp, Lester and Hanson They would have gotten another disabled pitcher in Lester asoso prospect in Hanson and a demoted leadoff man in Crisp. Doesn’t seem like a fair trade to me. JS will have to be very careful in his demands.

By Gary

September 28, 2006 11:19 AM | Link to this

The only way the Braves will be able to keep Andruw is if Hampton comes out this winter and pulls a Chipper and restructures that ridiculous contract. If he does that, then the Braves next work out a long term deal with Andruw. The only way this happens is if all parties get it done prior to free agency beginning in November. That way the Braves can then focus on rebuilding the pitching staff. If they cant do it, then you must trade Andruw or you will not get the player you can in July of next season.

By Ol' Diz

September 28, 2006 11:20 AM | Link to this

In Andruw We Trust….centerfield.

By TommyA

September 28, 2006 11:20 AM | Link to this

Let’s see, the Braves are near the top of the NL in runs scored…yep, no “true leadoff hitter” has really hurt.

I would say the first 2 months of the season without any production from the leadoff spot is a problem. Wait and see if the organization thinks it was a problem as well, when they go after someone to fill that spot.

By Shaun

September 28, 2006 11:27 AM | Link to this

Shaun… You have a point….it does depend on who they get…Who do you see as the most likely trade scenario that JS would gamble this teams future on?

I think AJones to the White Sox for Brian Anderson and Brandon McCarthy (and maybe another youngster) would be a great trade.

Or AJones to the Angels for Ervin Santana, Erick Aybar/Howie Kendrick/Brandon Wood (and maybe another youngster) would be fine, too.

The White Sox would probably be willing to give up Anderson because they have another young stud centerfielder in Sweeney.

By Shaun

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

I would say the first 2 months of the season without any production from the leadoff spot is a problem. Wait and see if the organization thinks it was a problem as well, when they go after someone to fill that spot.

The Braves have been near the top in runs scored all season. I can’t see how that is a problem. The organization may think it is, but the numbers say it isn’t.

By Gregg

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

War Damn Eagle

By carlaven

September 28, 2006 11:31 AM | Link to this

I think Andru is great ,but , I do not think he is a clutch player ,I.Z. when men are on base he folds. That is not a talent problem , but, more of a personality one . In effect move him to the 6th spot in the lineup ,unless the Braves get a deal to good to pass up keep him . Goodbye to Hudson ..Giles … Langerhans..Pratt…Jordan..dead armed pitchers….Chipper top dollar for damaged goods..When you let your heart lead your head you have problems..Sorry folks Carl m Aven

By DeeDee

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

Keep him! He’s invaluable to the team, offensively and defensively. He’s certainly worth the money and he wants to stay!! He’s a future Hall of Famer. I don’t understand even considering getting rid of one of the best outfielders in the game.

By Shaun

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

Just think if Boston would have accepted JS demands for Crisp, Lester and Hanson They would have gotten another disabled pitcher in Lester asoso prospect in Hanson and a demoted leadoff man in Crisp. Doesn’t seem like a fair trade to me. JS will have to be very careful in his demands.

According to all accounts, Lester and Hansen have bright futures. Schuerholz didn’t know at the time that he would get cancer. And he could still come back and put together a strong career.

Its still way too early to tell what kind of pitcher Hansen will be. He was just drafted last year. He hasn’t even spent two full seasons in pro baseball.

And Crisp is better than he has looked this season. He’s not Andruw, but for the money he’s a fine player.

But I will agree the Braves could probably get more for AJ.

By Ann

September 28, 2006 11:40 AM | Link to this

How about keeping Andruw and letting Bobby Cox go? This organization needs new team management.

By Shaun

September 28, 2006 11:40 AM | Link to this

Keep him! He’s invaluable to the team, offensively and defensively. He’s certainly worth the money and he wants to stay!! He’s a future Hall of Famer. I don’t understand even considering getting rid of one of the best outfielders in the game.

Well, would you trade Albert Pujols for Grady Sizemore and Miguel Cabrera? I would. I know a trade like that isn’t likely, but the point is it doesn’t hurt to consider trading your best player.

By Drummerdad

September 28, 2006 11:41 AM | Link to this

The Len Barker trade was one of the all time great flops. Compares with the trades that brought Keven McHale and Robert Parrish to the Boston Celtics in the early 80’s. As for Andruw, he’s lovable and a BRAVE. The lion share of his value is in his fielding. With runners in scoring position he’s a gamble at best. I would be interested in knowing what percentage of his numbers at the plate come when it matters most. It strikes me that an uncomfortable portion of those numbers come when it doesn’t matter. If that makes sense. BUT, an Andruw on the Braves is better than an Andruw on another team.

By Mark

September 28, 2006 11:44 AM | Link to this

You must be kidding….why even bring up the subject…The guy is healthy, hits for power,has speed, and fields his position flawlessly….the media amazes me, they should report, not stir up an absurd debate like this

By Amber

September 28, 2006 11:44 AM | Link to this

I can’t see any realistic trade where we’d get enough in return to justify letting Andruw go. He “peaked” last year? When did 40 home runs become something to sneeze at? There’s no way we could trade Chipper even if we wanted to - he just needs some phenomenal offseason physical conditioning.

By Nick

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

History will remember A Jones as one of the best center fielders of all time. Don’t let that memory be of Jones in any uniform other than a Brave. Did will learn nothing from the Red Sox and Babe Ruth?

By bcj

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

uh, HELL no!

By Shaun

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

The True value of Andruw Jones

http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=2562

By J

September 28, 2006 11:50 AM | Link to this

No way DO NOT TRADE JONES YOU ARE CRAZY Trade CHIPPER and get SORIANO and all cost’s I would not trade JONES for the entire NYY roster

By Braves Stink/So does the AJC

September 28, 2006 11:54 AM | Link to this

What a useless article. He is 30 and a superstar. The ads from Federated Dept stores must not take up enought of your toilet (news) paper anymore.

Trade the AJC….

By don

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

You can’t trade Andruw for “bright futures” because those “bright futures” usually don’t materialize.

You can’t trade Chipper for much of value. I would dump him for a midline prospect or two just to get rid of his contract. You won’t get any more for him, if that.

By Shaun

September 28, 2006 11:57 AM | Link to this

History will remember A Jones as one of the best center fielders of all time. Don’t let that memory be of Jones in any uniform other than a Brave. Did will learn nothing from the Red Sox and Babe Ruth?

I agree Andruw is a great player and should finish his career in Atlanta if the Braves can’t get two or three quality cheap young players for him.

Trading Andruw would not be anything like the Red Sox selling Babe Ruth before his 25th birthday.

By KD

September 28, 2006 11:57 AM | Link to this

Andruw should stay and if the GM is considering it perhaps the GM should be traded. I can not fully understand how we could fall off so quickly. Less than a year ago Divisonal Champion and now a sub-500 record.

By CK

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

Does anyone recall who we got for Jermaine Dye? He is the one who got away. Imagine a outfield of Dye Jones and Francour. Now imagine an outfield of Hans, Diaz and Francour. Ouch…..

What about Glavine and Maddox? Oh yeah they left as free agents… Got nothing in return.

By Chad

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

Andruw Jones is a bargain compared to other mlb players. He plays everyday, puts up productive offensive numbers, and when struggling at the plate he doesn’t carry it to the field. I feel that the best move the Braves can make is to trade Chipper Jones(if anyone will have him), if they are looking to reduce payroll or distribute it to the pitching staff.

By whoever

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

J, youre an idiot…..I would trade A. Jones for half of the NYY roster.

Quit trying to be loyal to a guy who at the end of the day isnt going to be loyal back at ya.

By Shaun

September 28, 2006 12:00 PM | Link to this

What a useless article. He is 30 and a superstar. The ads from Federated Dept stores must not take up enought of your toilet (news) paper anymore.

30 is past a baseball player’s peak years. While he’ll remain productive for a while, AJ isn’t likely to get better, but he is going to get more expensive.

By Shaun

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

I would not trade JONES for the entire NYY roster

I hope you’re kidding!

By whoever

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

ok since everyone seems to be so LOYAL to andruw and expects the same in return……lets just play the “what if game”

WHAT IF you HAD to trade him, what do you guys think would be a fair deal…and lets try to be realistic here….nothing like Andruw Jones for Carlos Beltran, Pedro Martinez, and David Wright…..if you HAD TO, absolutly HAD TO trade him, what would be a fair deal?

By Sid Vicious

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

If you want to keep Chipper & Andruw until retirement, prepare yourself to lose Francouer and/or McCann.

Braves’ payroll is probably not going higher with TW or Liberty. That said, if you want to pay the Jones’ boys $34M/year collectively, that leaves $46M for the rest of the team. If Francouer and McCann each command $10M/year, the Braves would be left with $26M to cover 4 position players, 4 bench players, 5 starting pitchers, and an entire bullpen. Not a good situation, particularly when Chipper goes down a third of the season with injury and Andruw hits his month long slumps.

Braves will either trade Andruw this offseason or hope he renegotiates for $14M/year or below. When Chipper’s contract expires, Braves will let him test free-agency while giving him an open offer to return for $7M/year.

By Shaun

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

Chipper has been more valuable offensively than Andruw…by about 4-1/2 more runs, according to Baseball Prospectus:

http://www.baseballprospectus.com/teamaudit.php?stats&team=ATL&battersort=VORP

By CK

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

J & whoever… You both missed the point of discussing the trading of Jones or to resign him… The object is to save money and rebuild…not triple the payroll. If the money was here then this issue would be a mute point.

By Shaun

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

Does anyone recall who we got for Jermaine Dye?

You mean Jermaine Dye who has become merely a decent major league outfielder? Dye may be the most generally overrated player in baseball this season.

http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=2562

By whoever

September 28, 2006 12:08 PM | Link to this

Good point CK…..Glavine and Maddux left as free agents cause they wanted more than the front office was willing to pay….since we know who Andruw’s agent is (scott borus) we can assume that he will be next to impossible to sign after 07. so why not go ahead and trade him now to make sure that you get something in return (while you can)

By RW

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

AJ, he shows up. Plays almost every game. Makes all kinds of silly catches that most outfielders wouldn’t touch. Hits 30 plus dingers and drives in 100+. This is the man we should trade. Oh wait, lets look at the “bad” attitude of a potential HOF outfielder. Negotiates with his dad a new long term deal with the Braves at a huge discount, never seems to say anything bad in the press, gets along with his teammates.

This guy is junk, let’s trade him!!!

IMO there are 4 untouchable guys on the Braves. Andruw, Smoltz, McCann, and Francour. (pardon any mispellings) Trade the rest of the club for pitching or get Tommy back. (I am no union lover, but the man is a Brave slumming in Mets blue.)

Don’t (for the love that is all holy) trade AJ!!!!

Dan…

By marcus

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

WHOEVER

I forgot to add Sheffield to my list. You are the real idiot. The whitening of the braves during the past 10 years is clear as day. Why is there so much talk by the racially biased press/braves’ organization about releasing/trading andruw and none in regards to broke down Chipper? As far as Maddux and Glavine is concerned they weren’t all-stars/trying to stay here anyway.

By whoever

September 28, 2006 12:12 PM | Link to this

CK. Im all for getting rid of andruw. ive been on the trade andruw campaign for the past couple of years

By Doug in Tucson

September 28, 2006 12:22 PM | Link to this

Andruw Jones should remain with the Braves until his playing days are over.Then he should be offered a position internally if he so desires. I have been a Braves fan since 1958,and my parents watched them in Boston.It broke my heart seeing Eddie Matthews traded (my Hero)and Hank Aaron go to the Brewers (understood that)……however swap Andruw,we would never get his value,and we would loose a man dedicated to the Braves.How about some loyalty to Andruw…lock him up his entire carreer!

By Bean Ball

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

Shaun, All caught up in numbers I see. Here’s some numbers. If Andruw were 10 lbs. lighter and hit on avg. 15-20 points higher, most of the morons on this blog wanting to trade him would not even comment. With any pitching at all this year we would have been in the playoffs and looking for a way to keep AJ. Unload some of these useless picthers we have, (Hudson, Thompson) problem solved.

By Gregg

September 28, 2006 12:30 PM | Link to this

WAR DAMN EAGLE!!

By Mark S

September 28, 2006 12:33 PM | Link to this

Are you people insane? When was the last time a mid market team (and lets face it, we’re mid market) was able to compete with one guy making 20% of the payroll? It just does NOT work in today’s game. They can move Francoeur to center, and move Saltalamacchia to right, and use the rest of the money to aquire some frontline pitching. Or maybe trade Salty for an outfielder.

Lets face it, Andruw is/was a great player, but he’s not getting any better than what he is right now. Even his defense has been only marginally better than league average the past 2 seasons. Lets cash out with the house’s money, and invest that money wisely

By Jimmy the Greek

September 28, 2006 12:35 PM | Link to this

shaun, dye is better than decent and he’s not overrated. one thing he is is healthy this year. do you actually watch anyone play or do you sit and crunch numbers on baseball sites all day?

By Shaun

September 28, 2006 12:36 PM | Link to this

How hard is it to understand? The best players are worth about 10 wins a season. Typical All-Stars are worth about 6-7. If the Braves get two or three young players worth about 3-5 wins a year on average, they could use the extra money to add another one or two players with at least some value. It’s not hard to see how trading Andruw could be beneficial if the Braves do it right and if there is a decent trade out there.

By Shaun

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

Bean Ball,

I’m not caught up in numbers, per se. I’m caught up in evidence and objective analysis and common sense. I have actually learned stuff from people much smarter than me and from history and know that trading Andruw at this point could be very beneficial to the Braves. I don’t just assume that because Andruw is a great player (which I agree he is) he should be untouchable.

By whoever

September 28, 2006 12:44 PM | Link to this

MARCUS….do you sell what you smoke?

“As far as Maddux and Glavine is concerned they weren’t all-stars/trying to stay here anyway.

Maddux 8 all-star appearances, 4 cy youngs….not bad Glavine- 2 cy young’s….not bad either…..

I guess both those white guys were not good enough to sign.

Marcus, take your racial crap down to college park and keep talking about how the man is keeping you down and how the white man invented crack so black people wouldnt rise up.

marcus are you yourself a african american?

By Jimmy the Greek

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

shaun, you’re a fantasy fruitballer.

By Shaun

September 28, 2006 12:48 PM | Link to this

Jimmy the Greek,

You’re right. It’s rediculous to look at objective evidence like statistics that are important to creating runs, for instance. We should just trust what we see all the time because our eyes never deceive us.

By Shaun

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

Jimmy the Greek,

Who would you trust more: people who “know” the world is flat because of what they see with their own eyes or people who have done some objective research and use common sense to determine that the earth is round?

By Rick

September 28, 2006 01:04 PM | Link to this

You can’t trade Andruw. Think of how many runs per game he saves with his defense alone. I am sure over the last five years if you look back, he has saved at least an average of 1 run/game. Think of how many times he played shallow and took a base hit away. With anyone else, those are hits and runs. Great teams are built on pitching and defense. With Andruw you have great defense and he makes the pitching better with that defense. Yes, he is a steaky hitter but he has hit over 40 hrs and 120 RBIs the last two years. I think with work with Pendleton, he can keep those HRs and RBIs and get his average into the .280s. Don’t trade him. What other teams will offer won’t replace what Andruw offers. On the other hand, Chipper Jones I would look to trade. His salary is quite high and his skills are deminishing alot faster than Andruws.

By CK

September 28, 2006 01:10 PM | Link to this

Good point Shaun… Nice to know the world isn’t flat afterall. No one can say for sure that trading AJ would destroy this team but recent history shows that JS is better at trading for players to plug holes than he is at projecting the next superstar.

Every real Braves fan knows Bobby Cox started the Braves roll by building the foundation that carried the Braves for many years and stepping sdown to manage what those very players.

JS has not been so fortunate and that is what concerns me about his trading AJ…not because he is improving the team but because the bottomline is the dollar and he may jump at any seemingly reasonable offer that appears good on the surface but in reality only helps the other team unload thei average players for a superstar… And yes, I do consider Jones a Superstar. In a time when Baseball suffers from self-centered, drug abusing and greedy players he has stood out as a quality player loyal to his team and fans.

That type of influence and character is hard to replace and you won’t find the value in the stats pages.

By BobbyD

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

Forget next year, time to rebuild around Andrew and youth. Here’s the formula: One: Do not trade Andrew but do hire him a personal trainer and give him conditioning incentives; Two: Trade Chipper to the American League where he can be an asset at DH and induct him into the Braves HOF; Three: get more money (!!!) to acquire a closet-full of young pitching talent in whatever way possible and let it mature. Fast forward to 09: win world series, Bobby and JS retire at top to HOF; old long-time fans die happy.

By Ron

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

However great AJ is, I think he could survive on 7 or 8 million a year. Talk it over with him, offer him a lifetime contract, and some perks-you never know, he might just go for it. Whatever you do, DON’T LOSE HIM !!! He and John Smoltz are the only true Braves left.

By whoever

September 28, 2006 01:17 PM | Link to this

does anyone on here really think he is one of the greatest Centerfielders of all-time?

By Jai

September 28, 2006 01:18 PM | Link to this

I agree with Jason. Trade Chipper and Giles and get more pitchers or better players to replace them. Andrew is a big part of the franchise. He plays year after year with no major injuries putting up 100 RBI seasons. Chipper always having problems with his feet and toes. Dude go see a podiatrist or get bigger shoes. With Giles I have no words because he’s just in the majors riding the coat tails of his brother. Brian can play I can’t say the samething about Marcus.

By Shaun

September 28, 2006 01:19 PM | Link to this

Rick,

According to The Hardball Times, AJ’s defense has been worth just under 2 wins this season.

Also the Braves can get a lot more for AJ than Chipper.

By whoever

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

Jai,

youre just not getting it are you? Sure we all would love to wave bye bye to marcus giles and chipper, but the fact of the matter is, no GM in the big leagues is gonna give you anything worth a damn for either of them.

Andruw is more valuable and therefore the braves would be able to get a lot more in return for him.

By CK

September 28, 2006 01:30 PM | Link to this

Shaun… did the Hardball times take into account the 25 losses that ocuured because of the lack of a strong bullpen? What if the Braves had won those 25 games….then how many wins would he have been worth. His value to this team far exceeds 2 wins. He is easily the teams MVP and that speaks for itself.

Be careful when you try to place a win value on a players head … be sure all factors are accounted and not just a won loss record.

AJ’s defense wasn’t what lost this season for the Braves. His defense helped keep the season competetive and his offense speaks for itself.

By Harold Hollingsworth

September 28, 2006 01:37 PM | Link to this

YOU ENTERTAINED THIS RIDICULOUS IDEA DURING THE SEASON WHEN YOU ATTEMPTED TO SHOP HIM AROUND “SECRETIVELY” AFTER THE TRADE DEADLINE. IT WAS A DUMB IDEA THEN, IT’S A DUMB IDEA NOW. WHY IN THE WORLD WOULD YOU TRADE A FUTURE HALL OF FAMER. YOU PEOPLE HAVE ALREADY TRADED ONE OF YOUR BEST UTILITY PLAYERS IN WILSON BETIMIT, AND NOW THIS! THIS OBVIOUSLY HAS MORE TO DO WITH THE COLOR OF HIS SKIN THAN RATHER OR NOT HE’S PAST HIS PRIME, ALWAYS HAS BEEN, ALWAYS WILL BE……….LOOK AT HOW YOU GUYS HAVE SHIPPED OFF PAST TALENTS!

By whoever

September 28, 2006 01:38 PM | Link to this

hitting .259 and either striking out or a DEEP fly ball to short stop makes you the “EASY MVP” of the team…. better hope B. McCann isnt home reading this….he might not agree with ya CK

By The Dude

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

This really comes down to dollars and cents. If the Braves are confident that they can resign him, then there is no question he should stay a Brave. You are not going to find another CF who plays that kind of Defense, hits 40+ jacks a year, and drives in 120+. Forget about BA., it’s the most over rated stat in the game. It’s all about production…Runs and RBI’s.

On the other hand, if you aren’t confident you can resign him, you’ve got to get something more than draft pics for him.

If the $$ is there, give it to him. If not, just please don’t trade him to the Mets.

By Robert C

September 28, 2006 01:44 PM | Link to this

I recently had a discussion with my farther on this same subject and it’s my thought that it would be better know to trade Andruw to a team like the LA-Anaheim Angles for for a 3 players. In return the Braves would receive Chone Figgins (GA Native, Scott Sheilds (a top set-up man), and and a top pitching prospect. Now I know this goes against most peoples thinking about Andruw. But even though he is the top centerfielder in the game today, his offensive number are on the decline, except for the power numbers, and this trade would help ease the loss of Andruw and solidify the bullpen. What do you think?

By The Dude

September 28, 2006 01:45 PM | Link to this

Harold, you’re an idiot. Why does everything always have to revert back to his “color”?

It’s all about $$, nothing more.

By whoever

September 28, 2006 01:46 PM | Link to this

youre right Harold Hollinsworth…everything is about skin tone and race.

I bet they didnt sign J.D. Drew, Maddux, or Glavine because they had been in the sun too long and were starting to get too tan. People might not think they were white anymore….good theory, brotha!

By Sue

September 28, 2006 01:49 PM | Link to this

I say keep him. I love to watch him in the outfield. He makes it look so easy….and fun.

By brian

September 28, 2006 02:00 PM | Link to this

I would trade Andruw to the Angels for Figgins, Ervin Santana, and another top prospect. That would be an offer I could not refuse. Andruw should also be traded if JS is sure he cannot sign him to an extension at a reasonable price.

Many people have referred to the Dale Murphy trade. His value would have been much, much higher if they traded him a year or two earlier - the Braves waited too long.

By Jeff

September 28, 2006 02:31 PM | Link to this

Either you are an idiott and don’t know anything about baseball—OR—you lost some sort of bet in the sports department for writing the stupidest article. The purpose of your article was? Andrew is a gem, a role model and the face of the fanchise. Keep him. I know, people will says its a business. Just the point. You have any idea how much Andrew means to the Braves AND the city Atlanta? Look at the bigger picture you …(fill in appropriate swear word here)

By Gary

September 28, 2006 02:38 PM | Link to this

This idea of trading Andrew Jones must be a idea of Terrence Moore. He is a huge part of the Braves offense and a gold glove performer in the outfield. AJC, how much wacky weed are you smoking.

By Koko

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

Why don’t you leave Andruw alone? Are you so desperate to sell your column?

By An Andruw Advocate

September 28, 2006 02:48 PM | Link to this

Andruw Jones is a once-in-a-lifetime baseball player. He’s 29. His last two years have been the most productive of his career to date, and he actually produced more runs in 2006 than 2005.

Andruw plays every day through pains, aches and bruises that sideline many players. His defense is still outstanding; and having him in centerfield makes the entire Braves pitching staff better.

Andruw is no longer a teenager. Next April, he’ll be 30. Even I understand he is closer to the end of his career than to the beginning.

Remember this though: in 1965, Cincinatti GM Frank DeWitt traded Frank Robinson, the Reds’ once-in-a-lifetime star, to Baltimore.

“Robinson is not a young 30,” DeWitt said.

How did that work out?

Pay Andruw what it takes to keep him in a Braves uniform for the rest of his career.

By REBA

September 28, 2006 02:54 PM | Link to this

No. It is no time to trade AJ.

By Olereb

September 28, 2006 02:57 PM | Link to this

It is simple, if we can sign him this winter, we keep him. If we can not sign him, trade him to the highest bidder.

By RA

September 28, 2006 02:57 PM | Link to this

Okay, here’s the question. Do you pay one of the premier players in the game what he is worth to keep him. Or do you consign yourself to an eighty million dollar anual payroll and watch the Mets, Yankees, and Cardinals fight it out every September. I’m a third generation Braves fan so I’m along for the ride regardless, but it’ll be a God-awful shame to see the Braves turn into the new mullenium’s version of the 1990’s Montreal Expose…

By Rodger

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

As much as we would love to keep Andruw, bottom line is this-if we can’t sign him for $14-15m a year, we’ve got to get something for him.

Whoever, if you don’t beleive he is one of the greates CF of all time, you must watch the same games as Shaun-none! Name 5 better so we can all shoot you down.

By ghost rider

September 28, 2006 03:13 PM | Link to this

By John the Handsome

September 27, 2006 09:46 PM | Link to this

Keep Andy Jones and Diaz and trade the rest or just give them away. Sent the white trash Chippie to the swamps and let Hudson tag along. Give B. Cox bus fare and tell himnot to come back to town. S ew the Braves and all the announters.

John you handsome devil,

What is an announters? You are hopeless…”Sent the”…Did you mean send the???? Hey guy, it’s obvious you missed summer school!

I’m not much of an Andruw Jones fan, but I sure know a good (great) ballplayer when I see one and the guy borders on the best (Mantle, Mays, Dimaggio,) To trade him without receiving some of the best available talent in the major leagues would be a travesty!

By Lane Tucker

September 28, 2006 03:27 PM | Link to this

I say the Braves should keep Andruw Jones, after all, at 30 he might learn how to hit in the clutch and discover how to hustle.

I am sure he won’t get any fatter, and it’s obvious that he can’t get much more lazy.

The chances of him turning into a blob like Terry Forster are only 50-50

And I really do believe that AJ is only 30, why would anyone doubt his age just because he comes from an area of the world where record keeping is shoddy at best. I am positive that he is only 30, even though he looks 35

By John Schuerholz

September 28, 2006 03:35 PM | Link to this

We will be trading Andruw for Kenny Lofton and Mike Remlinger. And we will resign Mike Hampton for another 5 years. End of story.

By love 2 hate Me

September 28, 2006 03:40 PM | Link to this

4 all U CRACK HEADS out there who think trading Andruw is a good idea or logical idea. When you become GM or take over JS’s position then talk. But 4 now ya’ll just talking *%#@.

By John Foote

September 28, 2006 03:41 PM | Link to this

**Don’t even think about trading away a player of his caliber who has at least 10 more playing years left.

By RichW

September 28, 2006 03:49 PM | Link to this

A couple of points for you to consider.

Andruw and Chipper both have 10 and 5 rights. What makes you think AJ would accept a trade anyway, even if the Braves were offered something they couldn’t refuse in return.

Both Joneses have shown unquestioned loyalty to the Braves. They have accepted less money and want to put a winning Braves team on the field. Chipper has restructured his contract and Andruw had his dad negotiate a contract paying him less thatn he is worth.

Neither of them want to leave. Both have veto power. I don’t believe either of them CAN be traded. That leaves the Braves with only the decision of whether they are going to try to resign Andruw or not.

By whoever

September 28, 2006 03:54 PM | Link to this

Hey RODGER..

5 better Centerfielders than Andruw Jones.

nice try Rodger, but unlike alot of your blogging buddies, i actually do know what im talking about….JACK@55

By whoever

September 28, 2006 03:57 PM | Link to this

go ahead Rodger….shoot those down…..or do you think a lifetime .267 hitter is better than 5 of the greatest men ever to put on the spikes….

By paul

September 28, 2006 04:04 PM | Link to this

If the Braves can get a handful of up and coming stars for AJ, then they should trade him. I would rather seem traded now and get something for him than have something happen like the Dale Murphy fiasco when we had a chance to get Howard Johnson and Len Dykstra. Let’s face it, while AJ is a great defensive outfielder, he’s not the most reliable clutch hitter in the game.

By RichW

September 28, 2006 04:11 PM | Link to this

Someone please tell me why Andruw would agree to a trade. He knows playing in Atlanta for his contract year would be a wise decision. If he is leaving, he we will do so as a free agent at the end of 07.

By A.Jones Fan

September 28, 2006 04:16 PM | Link to this

KEEP ANDRUW! Andruw IS “Atlanta Braves”. Com’on. Don’t talk nonsense!

By Schuerholz' Mother

September 28, 2006 04:16 PM | Link to this

Listen to your mama, boy.

First, the facts:

45 HRs

127 RBI

Best Center Fielder to ever live.

Dang boy, what are you thinking. If we had a closer at the beginning of this season and NOT let Furcal go, we wouldn’t be having this conversation.

This team is solid, just needs one or two more pieces and it’s 2-3 World Series in a row.

Then, and only then, do you consider trading Andruw. Hell, he might want to retire at that point.

Love,

Your Mama

By Luv'n AJ

September 28, 2006 04:20 PM | Link to this

NO!

By UGA 72

September 28, 2006 04:31 PM | Link to this

Let’s see Andruw drives in more than 125 runs, hits 40 Homeruns, is a great clubhouse guy who never causes problems, has never had a run-in with the law, wants to be an Atlanta Brave.

Well clearly we should trade him, blow up the stadium, and forget the Braves ever existed.

Tom Glavine once said that Andruw was worth 1 run a game, Greg Maddux thought more than that, maybe 1 1/2 runs a game. Since he plays almost every day, that is still 150 runs a year minimum. Who by themselves or in combination with anyone else could produce a run differential of 2 runs per game, RBI’s + Runs saved?

Andruw Jones is one of the greatest players I’ve ever witnessed. If the Braves are so financially destitute they can not afford Andruw, why don’t they just fold the franchise? It will be impossible to live with mediocrity after we’ve experienced mind numbing greatness!

By monty

September 28, 2006 04:32 PM | Link to this

Let’s see, a couple of years ago Andrew was an up and coming superstar. Now that he is mentioned with all of the greats not only of his generation but of all the greats who have ever played, let’s trade him and see if we can replace 130 rbi’s and how many consecutive gold gloves? Let’s roll the dice an maybe get another Tim Hudson in here. Sure thing! Andrew has stepped up big time the past two years when Chipper has missed so many games. Andrew makes Chipper better. Teams don’t want to pitch around him to get to Andrew. Andrew saves runs and drives in lots of runs.All Andrew needs to do is lose 10-15 pounds and that will help his back and knees. It will be fun the next 5-7 years if Andrew stays watching him demolish most of the homerun records.

By Keith

September 28, 2006 04:38 PM | Link to this

Andruw deserves to receive any deal that he wants…besides, he’s been a consistent offensive/defensive threat year in and year out…meanwhile, we continue to hold on to Chipper Jones (who by the way is injured every Summer)…why trade Dominique Wilkins again???…if the Braves trade A. Jones, they will certainly lose me as a fan of 25 years….

By AJRules

September 28, 2006 04:46 PM | Link to this

I think we need a blog asking whether Scott Boras has done anything good for baseball.

With the lack of power coming out of Left Field and Francoeur settling down in Right, it is key to have a foundation in Center to keep the power numbers in par with the league as well as protect our pitching staff with solid defense.

Hopefully, Schurholtz can iron out a fair compensation package for Andruw. As much as I want Andruw back for the years to come, I can understand his need to receive market value. Baseball, as much as everyone loves it, is Andruw’s job. Like us, he wants to be compensated for it.

By TD

September 28, 2006 05:00 PM | Link to this

The Braves may be forced to trade Andruw because of the goofy situation with the ownership of the team. AOL-TW doesn’t want to sell, instead the team will be traded for “Court TV” and stock to a holding company. what interest will Liberty have in putting money into the team? Also, the pitching is beginning to look increasingly suspect. This whole scenario will probably turn into a Major League Fiasco. It is a shame someone like Blank will not be the owner.

By Rodger

September 28, 2006 05:01 PM | Link to this

Whoever-I didn’t say the best hitting centerfielder. If you can pay attention, then realize what the conversation is. Mays was a great CF, Mantle good. Dimaggio and Cobb weren’t reknowned for their gloves, and Speaker and Wilson, I don’t know-kinda before my time, not much video, etc., but I’d wager with the little stub gloves, they resembled Diaz more than Andruw.

Bang, bang

By Kentavo

September 28, 2006 05:52 PM | Link to this

Bloggers who say Andruw is the face of the Braves are right. He’s the face that has not won any World Series rings. He represents that streak. Look it up. Since AJ joined the Braves (‘96), the Braves have had nothing but futility in the post-season and now have had a crappy regular season. He epitoomizes what is wrong: blase attitude, lack of hustle, no plate discipline, doesn’t respond to coaching. Yeah, he’s got tremendous talent and can wow you, but he has not honed his talent to take him from All-Star to elite status. Do you want him at the plate, in the bottom of the ninth in the seventh game of the World Series? Sure, if you want a pop up, double play or strikeout.

By Stuart

September 28, 2006 05:58 PM | Link to this

I’d trade Chipper before I would trade Andruw, especially if we still had Betemit to play in his spot (oops). What we need to do is trade a few of the 8 starting pitchers we have for next season (just not Smoltz or Hudson) for another big name starter so we can have a big three to rely on again (because there’s no guarantee w/ Hampton). Interestingly enough, what would help the Braves tremendously would be Alfonzo Soriano who could take up left field along with being a true leadoff hitter. But due to the fact that he’ll want loads of money, that’s virtually impossible. Speaking of money (i.e. Atlanta’s payroll), when is this new ownership going to take place? The Braves have been up for sale for quite a while now. When will they actually be sold? And whoever the buyer is, I hope he or she is willing to spend some money.

By NELSON

September 28, 2006 06:07 PM | Link to this

trade andruw jones to red sox

for coco crips & manny ramirez

By ATLER

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

Here we go again with the Atlanta Braves. Keeping a beaten down Chipper and replacing Andrew with that underachieveing Frenchy. The Braves only care about Gwinnett County anyways. The do nothing for the City of Atlanta. Their always catering to the rich kids out here in Gwinnett. Thanks Homeboy up stairs and the rest of your goons.

By Brave Fan '81

September 28, 2006 06:20 PM | Link to this

Here we go again. Trade rumors over the summer about Andruw and now this. This really lowers the morale for him and his teammates. The pitching staff has been in disorder the past 3-4 years (check the playoffs). Time for upper management to get it together or get out of Atlanta. KEEP ANDRUW JONES!!!!!!

By Tyger

September 28, 2006 06:28 PM | Link to this

This will be Mon Schuerholtz’ final undoing. Denying ATL fans the opportunity to eye witness the greatest player in Braves history will be a mistake of biblical proportions.

What we are about to witness Boston trade Babe Ruth for a pack of bubble gum.

In the short term, Mon Schuerholtz will preach economics in order to get his college team on the field but the truth of the matter is BRAVES FANS are going to be denied their chance to live thru their Willie Mays, Mickey Mantle, Barry Bonds, Hank Aaron era.

That special reward you get for your team loyalty will be denied in exchange for some middle-of-the-road, run-of-the-mill ball players.

Thxs, Jon

By kg

September 28, 2006 06:30 PM | Link to this

Does anyone remember when we traded Dusty Baker to the Dodgers for a boatload of players? We absolutely “robbed” their farm system. I think when all the dust settled, it became a Dusty Baker for Jerry Royster trade.

By themattvandy

September 28, 2006 06:53 PM | Link to this

No I don’t think the Braves should trade Andruw. He is the greatest defensive outfielder of a generation. A hands down, no doubt future Hall of Famer, who isn’t even 30 yet. Sure it seems like he is on the down side of his career but I think we tend to forget that he started at 18. He has already spent a decade in the game. Do I think he will get traded…sadly yes. It has been custom for the Braves to let go of their greats as the sunsets on their careers. No I don’t think Andruw is setting I was making a point. Hank Aaron traded. Dale Murphy traded. Phil Niekro traded. David Justice traded. Tom Glavine failure to tender a contract. Greg Maddux the same. Some how John Smoltz has managed to side step the foot in the butt. His horse will ride of into the sunset out of Turner Field. Hopefully he also broke the curse and Andruw’s horse will stay stabled in Atlanta. By the way, the same goes for Chipper’s horse too. First the Braves need to be sold and not as a business deal. They need to go to a local Atlantan, who has pride in the team and the recent history. Not to another out of town mogul that doesn’t care about the team performance. Seriously an $80 million dollar payroll. You have got to be kidding me. First Time-Warner stole the Braves, then the money for payroll, now they are dumping them from TBS (I am an Oregonian who spent his early childhood in GA when the streak started) and over the last few years my ability to see my team has dwindled), next will be Andruw to one of their local New York teams. Forgive me for rambling but I am a distraught fan who doesn’t know what to think without the Braves in the playoffs. Last time they didn’t make it I was in Kindergarten. 15 years and 3 states later I am struggling with moving on. Please pray for me.

By Snouter

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

The Braves need to step up and make an offer than is “higher” then they are comfortable with, but still below market value. They need to do it sooner, than later to lessen the Boras effect.

Looking back, 6 years @ $75m was a decent salary. Not cheap, far from a rip off. Look at Tom Glavine and all his suckiness when he first got to the Mets. No Jones in center field effect.

He is prolly something like .5 or something off the team .ERA. He lets the corner outfielders work the corners, and he rules at the flare to shallow center. He’s never really been the best “fence climber” center fielder, but, he his whole thing is his native ability to get that great first jump on the ball.

But, looking at the cruddy deal with Betemit, there no hope to think that JS will do the right thing. Baez is outta here, and now we have Aybar, whom, I like alright, but, we HAD Betemit before. loco, yo.

By Bill Patteson

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

Isn’t it possible that with the sale of the Braves that the new owner will increase the payroll so that they can keep Andruw and bring in some other players? That’s what we should be pulling for!

By Ray Spratlin

September 28, 2006 07:33 PM | Link to this

Trading the best centerfielder in baseball for unknown and untried younger players would be on of the most stupid deals ever. He is a known commodity who has produced every year he’s been here. Why not trade the other Jones or one of the many outfielders for starting pitching. Andruw, along with Francuer, McCann, Diaz and Laroache are good for at least another 5-7 years. Don’t screw it up!!

By whoever

September 28, 2006 08:23 PM | Link to this

Rodger

unfortunatly, offense and defense make together make someone a great ballplayer. Andruw is great at tracking down fly balls that others dont get to, yes, but that only makes him a great defensive centerfielder. Unfortunatly, you better be able to swing the stick if and flash the leather if you wanna be considered the one of the greats.

tell me, does your mother sew?

BANG BANG!

Have her sew that!

By Laurance Maney

September 28, 2006 08:26 PM | Link to this

Anyone who suggests Andruw could be replaced by Rice Krispies up in Boston has never seen a Red Sox game. He was a disaster at leadoff and could run the ball in from center better than he can throw it. Shouldn’t Baseball Blogs be limited to people who at least watch baseball?

By kenny d

September 28, 2006 08:49 PM | Link to this

KEEPER! KEEPER! KEEPER! ‘nuff said. he is one of those guys you never get rid of. you keep the core guys. open up the pocketbooks and get a real owner already. bring back Ted. this is a big market. this is not pittsburgh or kansas city. you need to be able to retain your own home grown stars. they should have kept furcal - albeit at the price he got, the braves would have been irresponsible paying that much no matter how deep their pockets are. the yankees have been good for all these years - yes because of $$$ - but also because of the stability they have had in their up the middle of the field home grown guys like c posada, ss jeter, cf bernie, cl rivera, and lhp pettite. you do not get rid of these types of people if you want to win. find a leadoff hitter like pierre or crawford to play left field and nothing needs to be changed to this offense. the lineup next year should be 1. lf - crawford/pierre; 2. giles; 3. c - mccann; 4. 3b - chipper; 5. cf -andruw; 6. 1b - laroche; 7. ss - renteria; 8. rf - frenchy. hopefully batting frenchy eight will force him to take lots of pitches because he will not get alot of good pitches with the pitcher coming up next. or it could have the opposite effect i guess and drive him crazy with his itchy trigger finger when he gets no pitches to hit. but, the bottom line is, do not change any of the offensive hitters. just get us a true leadoff hitter and plug the hole in left field and the offense will be just fine. it would be nice to still have betemit to fill in for chipper because chipper is clearly at that stage of his career where he will be perpetually injured. get a leadoff hitting left fielder, one or two decent set up guys, and get all the SPs back healthy, and they should kill the stinking mets next year. pena must be the backup catcher next year. i like pratt but he killed us in those 40 or so games he started this year. what a waste of a lineup spot he was when he started. KEEP DRUW. KEEP CHIPPER. OPEN UP THE DAMN POCKETBOOKS AND GET A REAL OWNER ALREADY!!! THIS IS NOT A SMALL MARKET!!!! they need to increase the payroll by about $15 to $20 million next year and stop this small market nonsense. $15 to $20 million would mean that only 10, 000 more fans per game come to the game. that can be accomplished. if they found themselves a black superstar or just a few black stars and stopped ignoring the huge african american population and culture here in atlanta, they would undoubtedly increase their fan base and season ticket base. and, no, i am not playing the race card or being racist or anything like that. business is business. all these years after the hammer, you would think that the braves would catch on that, in the african american community, the ATL is called the american black mecca. it is funny how much attendance and popularity in the team has dwindled since the ron gants, prime time, grissoms, and david justices of the world have disappeared from the face of the franchise. and, please no childish responses calling me terrence moore lite or racist or why does race have to be brought up. i am just saying that business is business and when the payroll has to be cut or constricted year after year, you just have to wonder why they continue to be so neglectful of such a huge potential fan base they have here in the ATL. the ATL is after all where the playaz play. and, no, i am not black

By dan k

September 28, 2006 09:07 PM | Link to this

I trust the Braves will do everything they can to sign him, and look to shed payroll elsewhere. He should be money good for another 3-5 years and they can insure him. I think the harder question is whether they try to get something done this offseason, or wait until the end of 2007. I think there is something to be said for having the guy play during his contract year, as he could carry the team and put up awesome numbers, especially with Chipper’s health issues a concern. Plus they will have another year to judge McCann, Frenchy and LaRoache’s production.

In any case, I think they see how the market develops for Soriano, as he’s a good comp, so to speak.

I think Giles is definately a goner, and Hudson too if they get something back. Both were very dissapointing this year. With the contracts to Wickman and Smoltz, I think JS gets the joke that the competition (ie…Mets) will spend on pitching, speed and bullpen.

I think the priority should be getting Carl Crawford from the D-Rays and letting him bat leadoff.

By Eugene

September 28, 2006 10:57 PM | Link to this

How can te Braves honestly consider trading thier most consistant and reliable player. Andrew plays everyday.. Andrew saves more runs a year than any outfielder in the game. I guess when we get a slow non hitting centerfielder Braves management will be happy. We will not even mention that they are not even thinking of trading Chipper and he has ot given the Braves a quality season in about 5 years..

By BenA

September 29, 2006 02:02 AM | Link to this

If you want to trade someone named Jones, trade Chipper. During all the years of division championships he did nothing but have one of the lowest playoff batting averanges in Braves history. Look at what he’s done… marginal during the regular season and absolutely nothing during the playoffs. Andruw carried the Braves last year and was doing the same this year until Chipper came back from the disabled list. That’s when Andruw went in the tank. Things go well without Chipper Jones in the line-up and he needs to either retire or be gone. Andruw is a keeper!

By Nelson Hawkins

September 29, 2006 09:00 AM | Link to this

Over on DOB’s “maddening, streaky, sensational” Andruw-blog from last week, I posted what amounted to an emotional plea to keep Andruw as a Brave, not just through next year, but re-sign him. Well, now down to brass tacks: Chipper is unlikely to be moved because of a variety of reasons that you probably have already read ad nauseam, same with Hudson and Hampton (not sure why no one’s talking about trading Renteria—I mean, if the Braves are seriously going to go after Lugo, then put him in a platoon at SS with Pena for late-inning defense, and save that Edgar money for something else). To my chagrin, all the rumor-mongers keep saying Giles will be traded, and in what is to be a weak pool of free-agent second basemen, he should bring back something good in return (please, let it be to the Cards for Wainwright); however, that trade alone won’t bring the Braves the payroll flexibility they’re gonna need to address the problem areas of the pitching staff, so…that leaves Andruw. He has been my favorite player for 10 years now, but baseball is a business, and fiscal reality is the only reality the decision-makers are concerned with. Additionally, Andruw was quoted as having some interest in the Dodgers, Angels, and (just kick me in the nuts and get it over with) Mets, so I wonder if he’s already looking out the door (with plenty of encouragement from his snake-in-the-grass agent).

With that in mind, here are my trade proposals involving those 3 teams, and one dark-horse candidate, in case Andruw would be willing to go to a team not on that short list, just for one year. In mine, I try to stay what I think is fairly conservative, given that most teams see the chinks and tarnish in Schuerholz’s armor, and he just doesn’t pull off the kinds of trades he used to, so you’re not gonna see anything of the “Andruw to Minnesota for Nathan, Hunter, and Santana” ilk.

To the Angels for Ervin Santana and Chone Figgins: Santana will be 24 when next seasons commences, is 15-8 this year, and could be a front-line (or very good number 2) starter for years (and I don’t think the Angels would give up Jered Weaver in any scenario); Figgins is one of the top super-subs in the game, which the Braves wouldn’t need so desperately if they’d quit letting theirs go (DeRosa, Betemit). Throw in a ready-to-go catching prospect like Brayan Pena, and get back a bullpen piece like Scot Shields.

To the Dodgers for Derek Lowe, Wilson Betemit, and Andy LaRoche: Lowe has rediscovered his sinker under Maddux’s tutelage, which might bode well for Hudson, and remember that Lowe was the kindly gent who suggested that Adam LaRoche get back on his meds—the Braves l-o-v-e LOVE that kind of guy in the clubhouse. Wilson—well, to me it seems he is better-suited to spelling Chipper at 3B or Renteria at SS than Aybar, would be as good as Aybar in limited 2B duties, and definitely hits for more power; I’m expecting him to be a role-player, not an everyday starter. Andy LaRoche (3B prospect who is probably going to be a better hitter than his brother) is apparently going to have surgery on his throwing shoulder in the offseason, but I think it’s worth the risk, especially with nothing in the Braves farm system going on at 3B, and he appears to be the best near-ready player they have—I’m not sold on their young outfielders.

To the Mets: I can’t realistically see this getting done, a trade of one of your franchise players to your biggest division and league rival. Plus, even if the Mets become more free-spending than they already are to pay Andruw, their outfield is crowded, with Beltran, Green, Floyd, and Lastings Milledge all a part of their picture for next year. Assuming they are willing to give up Milledge and Heilman in a deal for Andruw (they have nothing else desirable that they would also be willing to part with; although, if they wouldn’t give those 2 up for Zito…), where do they play him? Do they risk alienating their star CF by asking Beltran to move to LF? (there ain’t no way the Braves could take on his salary if he were offered in trade; if they were gonna do that, they would just keep Andruw because he gives better defense and similar power). Speaking of NY, I noticed Andruw wasn’t quoted as mentioning the Yankees as a team of interest, and for that I’m grateful…or, maybe he just knows those are fightin’ words.

To the Mariners, with Giles, for Ichiro and Rafael Soriano: this is a personal pick (and to all the knee-jerk, reactionary bloggers, this is my aforementioned dark-horse candidate) because I live in the Mariners viewing area and would love to see my favorite player running down impossible fly balls all over spacious Safeco Field. Ichiro is a RF, but has been playing a very good CF much of the year due to injuries to the Mariners’ regular CF. He solves the leadoff issue mightily, and Soriano is a helluva bullpen arm. I don’t know how Kid Suzuki’s Ichirosity would play in Bobby Cox’s clubhouse, but they even gave Kenny Lofton a shot for a whole year. Some may think Ichiro wouldn’t get moved, but, being Ichiro, he tends to get what he wants, and word around here is he wants out unless significant changes are made to the coaching staff. Mike “People Called Me The Human Rain Delay, But You Can Call Me Grover” Hargrove may be a nice fella, but he’s squandered more young talent over the years than one would think possible—you Bobby Cox haters don’t know how much Cleveland fans envy that one championship.

I suppose I should be so lucky that someone would take the time to tear apart my ideas with all kinds of stat comparisons—I’m a stat junkie myself at times, but say what you will about VORP, GIDP, WHIP, and RISP, the only stat that really counts is what I call the Murphy Average, as in Murphy’s Law: on any given play, the result is either going to come out for or against your team, and the team that has it come out in their favor most often, and at the right times throughout the year, is the one that wins the championships—sabermetrics can’t account for the postseason heroics of statistically inconsequential players like Mark Lemke, Francisco Cabrera, et al, or for a play like Boston had last week where a bunt resulted in 2 runs scored and the batter-runner on 3rd. And win shares…well, until Bill James admits to inventing a system solely dedicated to proving (in his own mind, if no one else’s) that Craig Biggio (his favorite player) is one of the all-time top 5 players, then all his ideas are at best suspect. Moneyball doesn’t win championships, and neither has the king of the Killer B’s.

By Joe Coffey

September 29, 2006 09:48 AM | Link to this

Trading Andrew is stupid. Trade Chipper Jones isn’t AS Chippy spend a lot of time on the DL list. Maybe the best trade deal would be Chippy for of all people, LEO Mazzole(sp) and get the team back in the ways it should have been with him there. And I am sure Bobby missed his rocking buddy in the dugout.

By Moore Cowbell

September 29, 2006 10:08 AM | Link to this

I agree with Kenny D, I’m sure if we had more Blacks on the Braves, attendance would skyrocket!! I for one, am waiting to get more white guys on the Hawks so I’ll go see them! I see the whole black player thing worked well for them. Of course the deafeing roar of the crickets when the Hawks hit the hardwood can somewhat be a distraction.

By Josh G

September 29, 2006 12:19 PM | Link to this

Everyone knows that Andruw Jones is a great player and a future hall of famer, but unfortunatley baseball economics would say to trade this guy this off season, which will probably happen, sorry to say. Scot Boras (aka the devil) will negotiate a package after next season to the braves for a 5 year 85 Million dollar contract and no less. (the red sox or angels will pay more) He will be sold away. Sorry but the braves and the stupid liberty group do not have any money to buy that. They will sign a cheap CF or use Langerhans and Kelly Johnson in the outfield. Trade him now for something, or get some draft picks for him next year. Its the cold facts.

By madaboutmaddux2

September 29, 2006 12:48 PM | Link to this

Andruw is the heart and soul of the Atlanta Braves.. He is one of the few that play for the love of the game… Always that huge smile…

The other Jones (who is paid way too much for not playing a full season in the last three years) is the one I think should retire if he really cares about the team… The look on his face most of the time is that of someone that wants to be anywhere but where he is…

Andruw’s body will have time to heal over the off season.. There is no better player in all of baseball than Andruw Jones…

No I don’t think he is declining at all…He is the only Atlanta Braves to ever hit 40 or more home runs in back to back seasons… He has the most RBI’s on the team..

The Braves should do anything they can to resign Andruw, and make sure he retires as a Brave…

By johnny

September 29, 2006 01:08 PM | Link to this

It’s amazing, that writers are trying to run the country, and now they are trying to be GM’S and Managers. That question needs no answer, except from those who think they know everything. You keep Andruw Jones. Any one in baseball would know that.

By Ronald

September 29, 2006 04:16 PM | Link to this

Andruw’s stats are as good as A-Rods and as good as most in the league. Granted his average is down again but maybe that is what he will always be. He plays hurt,he is the best centerfielder in the game so don’t you think some of his shortcomings should be overlooked? Everybody in the game has a weakness. Should be a brave forever. Trading him would be a step backwords

By Laura

September 29, 2006 04:19 PM | Link to this

This is a joke, right?? Trade Andruw and you might as well get rid of Bobby and the Braves all together. Where do you come up with such stupid questions??? Get rid of the other Jones. Andruw is the best CF there is. Plays every game and doesn’t cop out when things don’t look good and he doesn’t want to be associated with the team like some——

Come up with some sensible questions - like getting rid of Larry——

By chris

September 29, 2006 08:36 PM | Link to this

Trade the best CF ever?…In his prime no less?…are you kidding me? that would be the worst, absolute worst idea for any team. if the braves trade andruw at all then they’ll be looking at a Red Sox type curse. no im not saying that andruws the best HR hitter in the game…but all around he is one of the best players in the game. no he doesnt hit .325 every year like a pujols or someone like that but think about what he does on a consistent basis. his averages are: like 31-35 HR’s a year (at least; now back-to-back 40 HR seasons), 100-110- RBI’s a year and think of all the runs he saves with his defense. it would be the absolute worst move that the braves could make and i think they would lose alot of fan support if they did it. they have to convince the new ownership to open up the check book for this guy and this team. DO NOT EVER TRADE ANDRUW JONES. HE IS A SURE HALL-OF-FAMER WHEN HE’S DONE.

By phil

September 29, 2006 11:10 PM | Link to this

The Braves need to keep Andruw Jones and deal with the pitching staff. Hudson better come back strong next year or restructure his contract to make it up to the Braves. Hampton should be playing for free with the CR*P he has been putting the braves thru. The new owners need to move Giles his production keeps going south. make a move for Alfonso Soriano. Get rid of Laroche and move chipper to first.

By edward

September 29, 2006 11:42 PM | Link to this

I like the arguement that players are not good after 30. Anyone ever heard of Nolan Ryan? Roger Clemens ring a bell? He may not be on the juice now, but even Bonds (yes I dont like him) is hitting homeruns still at a good clip. The way y’all are talking, why dont we just line up every person over 30 and shoot them now? Obviously we contribute nothing to the world, right? You really think Andruw is going to stop producing because he signs a fat contract and turns 30? And to the guy who said the starting pitching is fine right now….HAVE YOU EVEN WATCHED A GAME THIS YEAR?????????? The starting pitching except for Smoltz has sucked. hampton will be a welcome sight, but Hudson has to be gone. The guy has one more year left anyway. Why fight this out now? You know what? Resign him now. Lose some of the fringe players who didn’t contribute. Half the bullpen and Langerhans would be a good start. Lose Hudson, a better start. Trade Liberty Media taking over for Arthur Blank. He has lost millions on the Falcons and still pumps even more money into them!! Imagine what he could have done with the Braves…..sigh

By Keith

September 30, 2006 01:59 AM | Link to this

If you’re going to trade a “JOnes”, trade the one that can’t stay healthy.

100 games a year ain’t gettin’ it done, Chipper!

By Josh

September 30, 2006 06:45 PM | Link to this

ARE YOU CRAZY? WHY WOULD YOU EVER TRADE ANDRUW?

By kudzu

October 2, 2006 01:44 PM | Link to this

PLEASE do not trade Andruw! Every other team in both leagues would love to have him.

By C.R.

October 2, 2006 03:26 PM | Link to this

Leave the infield and outfield the same. Deal with whats been the major probkem, pitching or the lack of it. To trade Andrew would be suicide. Does staying on the injuried list mean anything to a team? To trade Andruw would cut the payroll, but not in salary, but in fan attendance. Remember what happened to attendance when they traded Dale Murphy?

By Len

October 2, 2006 03:33 PM | Link to this

KEEP ANDREW ON THE BRAVES! Atlanta’s fans love the big guy! Andrew loves being a Brave!

By Ronald King

October 2, 2006 04:11 PM | Link to this

If the Braves trade Andruw Jones, I will trade teams. They should never had traded Wilson Betemit. He would have been a great player. They never talk about trading Smolts and Chipper.

By Nate

October 2, 2006 05:13 PM | Link to this

Andruw’s value has peaked and is declining, but his price tag will continue to rise. The only way to keep him is to pay more than he’s worth. Unless you have an unlimited budget you can’t put together a winning club by overpaying players. The Braves need to take a page from Oakland’s book. Time to trade Andruw and look for player who are worth more than their price tag.

By Bonnie

October 2, 2006 08:30 PM | Link to this

First I want to correct something that was posted: Maddux did not leave for more money.. Schuerholz dumped Maddux… He did not even ask what Maddux would take to stay… So he won his 300th game as a Cub..

We can not let Andruw get away. He is the best centerfielder in baseball, possibly the best ever…

Not only is he good for 40+ homeruns and 125+ RBI’s a year, but he saves one or two runs a game by his outstanding defense..

I think Andruw is taken for granted because he makes the hard plays look easy…they aren’t..

If Andruw becomes a free agent, he will be overwhelmed with offers… Who wouldn’t want a future Hall of Famer?? I think he would get $17M to $20M a year..

I believe if Braves management treats him with the respect he deserves, then he would sign for $15M… He is worth every cent of it…

Andruw is the heart and soul of the Braves.. We must keep him…

This is a superstar that really loves to play the game.. You can see it by that big smile. Some of our players look like they are bored being there..

By Tom Penn

October 2, 2006 08:35 PM | Link to this

If we aint got Smoltz, Andrew and Bobby Cox it aint the Atlanta Braves!!!!!!!!!!!1

By Claude

October 2, 2006 11:18 PM | Link to this

How could anyone think of trading Andruw? Andruw is the very best centerfielder in baseball and the cornerstone of the outfield. The Braves need a leftfielder,a leadoff hitter, and a starting pitcher. I’m not the GM but I think these should be top priorities for the Braves in the off season.

By journalist stinky

October 4, 2006 01:39 PM | Link to this

how many world series titles do the atlanta braves have? how many world series rings does andruw have? would you classify jones as a team leader? does jones make enough $$ to be clasified a leader? does he set a good example for other hitters? could he chair a kangaroo court? does he have the moral authority to challenge a rookie who stupidly swings at ball four?

By rip

October 4, 2006 11:28 PM | Link to this

Trade for the best 3 player deal you can get.

By Titothebear

October 6, 2006 11:09 AM | Link to this

It’s better to trade one year too early than one year too late! It;s time to trade Andruw for top-notch prospects. Keeping him here would be foolish.

By Thomas

October 6, 2006 12:04 PM | Link to this

Dont be stupid andruw is a very valuable player and is worth the risk of a big contract.