ajcsportstalk

By tee

September 30, 2006 08:52 PM | Link to this

day n day out, chipper jones gives you nothing but the ability of not knowing. The braves is a much better team when they know chipper is not going to be there (liability factor). The Braves were to never get rid of their franchise in Dale Murphy, and they did. Once they did it, they became a better team. So Braves think about it, if you not getting enough time from a key member of your team, time to get rid of him and let someone eles worry about him. Stop worring about Chipper and start worrying about the other jones for your future and the ability to build a team around.

By TD

September 30, 2006 09:24 PM | Link to this

When Chipper is healthy he is still very productive, is only 34 and since he has restructured his contract, keeping him is worth a gamble for the next two years.
I don’t see any of the current Braves emerging to replace Chipper, with the possible exception of Franceour, but only if he learns how to draw a walk. The emergence of the Braves pitching and their success in the early 90s was not a result of the Murphy trade, but the results of the Doyle Alexander trade and some good draft picks. Attempting to tie these two events together is too speculative.

By BirdDawg

September 30, 2006 09:47 PM | Link to this

Hmmm.

One has to wonder if old Chipper the Dipper was actually Chipper the Juicer.

It fits. The sudden rash of nagging injuries the last two years. The last two years of which have seen the first kind of steriods testing of any kind at the MLB level.

If the shoe fits, ya know?

By Chris

September 30, 2006 09:47 PM | Link to this

It’s amazing how many high priced players the Braves have who aren’t worth the money they’re making. Hudson, Hampton, Giles, Jones, Jones. Then there are the players getting much less and giving the team much more.

By jim

September 30, 2006 10:09 PM | Link to this

Where’s the evidence the Chipper ever juiced? His numbers have been consistent all along. There was never a Brett Boone/Brady Anderson like jump in numbers followed by a washout. The dude hit .324 this year.

He’s still the best hitter on the team. Nobody can work a count like he can. Let him walk and the team loses the best bat in the lineup.

By Head Coach

September 30, 2006 10:23 PM | Link to this

I said it before the season ever started. Chipper had to have a healthy productive season for the braves to be competetive in 2006. He is a lifetime Brave like Dale Murphy and like the murph it looks like Chipper’s career and hall of fame chances will be short changed by injury.

By Maddux fan

September 30, 2006 10:58 PM | Link to this

Wanna trade Chipper? I’m sure he’s not worried. Betemit, Furcal, Maddux, Drew, Lofton…These Dodgers clinched at least the wild card without so-called overpaid, past their prime former Braves…Funny, in the past the Braves were the team which took on other teams’ unwanted players for a playoff push…Guess someone took notes

By beki

September 30, 2006 11:08 PM | Link to this

In spite of injuries the past two years, he is still the most consistently productive Brave and has even become a better defensive third baseman. Once upon a time he did have his contract reconstructed in order to free money to be used by management; could he possibly,do it again? For the sake of the team? Don’t know;yet,if he doesn’t want another reconstructuring (sp?)would he prefer to be traded? I’d prefer to keep him yet if I had to choose between keeping him or AJ,I’d choose the Hulk.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

September 30, 2006 11:15 PM | Link to this

First of all, chipper wasn’t or is he now on the juice. So, just stop it! I get so tired of hearing that crap. Chipper is the same size he’s always been. If anything he looks healthier now than in the past.

Chipper’s health woes can be attributed to poor workout habits. Even though he hired the personal nutrionist and all he admitted he didn’t always follow the plan. Lord knows in the past he wasn’t a workout kind of guy.

The fact is the guy is 34 years old and played almost every day for 10 years until the last two seasons.

Now, should he be traded? If it made sense to do so, then I would be all for it. Some are trying to compare the situations between him, Andruw, and Giles. Andruw and Giles are a different case than Chipper’s. Chipper’s contract isn’t up. He’s guaranteed to be here for the next 3 season if the Braves so desire. Andruw and Giles’ contracts are up after next season and there is no (hear me) no guarantee they will stay. I keep hearing about this hometwon discount that Andruw will supposedly give the Braves. What kind of discout will it be? The Braves really could only afford to pay him about $15 mil without sacrificing other parts of the team. To think that other big markets teams won’t offer him a lot more is naive at best. Remember, the Dodgers offered Furcal $13 mil, which was approx. $3.5 mil more than the next highest offer which came from the Cubs.

In Giles’ case, he is the most tradeable commodotity. Anyone with good sense can see this team needs pitching and Giles can bring that in a trade. If a team is willing to give the Braves a king’s ransom for Chipper, then by all means they should make a trade. I would hate to see my third favorite Brave of all time go, but like Murphy (who’s my second favorite) if it will make the team beter then so be it. I’ll go on record right now saying that if the Angels would give the Braves Kendrick, Figgins, and Santana they should make the trade. If A-Rod “stinks up” another postseason and becomes trade bait in NY, I say give the ‘ol Yanks a call and see if they will give us A-Rod for Chipper and a minor leaguer. Taking into consideration the part of the contract the Rangers are paying, A-Rod is making $15 mil. That is $4 mil more than Chipper. See, if the Yanks will pick up that $4 mil and call it a day.

I’d love to see Chipper in a Red Sox uniform if he’s not in a Braves’ one. Make a trade for Lowell and either Crisp or Hansen, and a minor pitching prospect. That would work for me.

However, none of those proposed deals are likely to happen. Not because of the money or Chipper’s injury issues, but becasue the Braves don’t want to get rid of him like they don’t want to get rid of Andruw and Giles but in the latter’s case, it makes good business sense.

Let me put it like this. If the Braves had kept Murphy in 1990 and into 1991, Otis Nixon would have never started in center and TP likely wouldn’t have been signed since Gant would have stayed at 3B instead of moving to the outfield.

By asc

September 30, 2006 11:22 PM | Link to this

would ajc just shut up already!!!!!

By tim- braves lifer

September 30, 2006 11:47 PM | Link to this

you cannot afford to let chipper and andruw leave. your lineup will have no punch at all! your already comitted to hampton, hudson and smoltz for next year and no matter what the injuries offense was not a problem all year. with any bullpen early in the season the braves would be preparing for the playoffs this year and all the doomsdayers would have nothing to complain about.

By Kentavo

October 1, 2006 12:14 AM | Link to this

I love the Jones boys. But both of need some protection in the lineup and that is what ultimately sinks this team offensively - having to rely on the Joneses. They are great pieces of the puzzle - but shoudn’t be the main cogs. Andruw Jones is not a cleanup hitter. You need an intimidating Andrew Galaragga type for that spot - not that there’s anyone availalbe. Do you want Andruw at the plate with ducks on the pond and the game on the line? More often that not, the answer is no - he’s still an easy out to many pitchers in the league. Yeah, he can jump on the first pitch and crush a fastball, but who’s going to throw him a first-pitch fastball down the middle in a crucial situation?

By John

October 1, 2006 12:19 AM | Link to this

Chipper is a professional hitter. What I mean by that is he knows when to take a pitch, when to work a walk, when to hit the ball to right field, etc. While it’s been very frustrating how often Chipper has missed games the last few years, when he’s been in the lineup, he has produced very well. Ideally, Chipper would be on the books for less than the salary he’s being paid, he’s still worth holding onto. He sets an excellent example for the younger players and will continue to be a mentor for the new golden boy, Francouer. Plus, he’s still on a Hall of Fame pace and, along with Smoltz, the last link to the glory years of the ’90s. Unless another team offered the Braves a deal they couldn’t say no to, the Braves should keep him.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

October 1, 2006 12:23 AM | Link to this

I agree about Andruw, Kentavo. I think he is better suited for the 5th or 6th hole. The problem is that there is virtually no way to get that “intimidating” cleanup hitter. Even if the Braves could somehow get Crawford and someone else to leadoff, I don’t know if Crawford is that type of hitter. McCann could be a possibility. He isn’t the homerun threat that you would like to have but knowing he will make you throw strikes could be intimidating to the opposing pitcher. I can’t think of another hitter on this team that has been as astute at hitting in the clutch.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

October 1, 2006 12:30 AM | Link to this

One thing Chipper has shown is that is that he wants to be a Brave for life and is willing to sacrifice. He restructured his contract this season to free up a little money to get some players the team needed. Now, I wonder if JS went to Chipper and said, “Look, Chip, we don’t have a huge payroll. We need money to get the players we need. I realize you will be making $11 mil a year for the next couple of seasons. Would you be willing to knock off about $3 mil of the contract so we can put it toward building a championship caliber club again and one that will contend immediatedly. We can restructure your deal so that its full of incentives that will basically allow you to make the same money without it being on the books. What do you say?” I think Chipper would agree to do it. Chipper doesn’t want to leave. He’s said he would go if he wasn’t wanted but wanted to retire a Brave and would seriously consider retiring if he couldn’t stay a Brave. Unlike Andruw, I think he means it because he is 34 years old and his injury issues the last few years could further precipitate a retirement. Despite what so many on these blogs try to say, Chipper is a team guy and has shown willingness to compromise time and time again.

By Gene Bradshaw

October 1, 2006 12:31 AM | Link to this

Chipper is a great hitter and a good glove man. However, his history of injuries, most of which have come in the field, make him tradeable. A trade to an American League team , where he could extend his career as a designated hitter, and free up twenty-two million dollars over the next two years, would be a wise move.

By gotigers72

October 1, 2006 12:33 AM | Link to this

NO! NO! NO! Never trade this guy. He and/or Smoltz are Mr. Brave. I know he has had major health problems, but you could tell by the way he played when healthy this year that he still has the stuff to be an MVP again. He was on the DL 3 times and STILL had 85 RBIs. He also hit .325 and had a high OBP. He is still one of the elite players in MLB. Surely he won’t have health problems three years in a row. I believe he will undertake steps this winter, such as stretching to avoid those oblique problems, and be healthy next year, and a healthy Chipper will put up some huge numbers. I hope those numbers are for the Braves.

Just look what he has done for the Braves in the past. Changed positions so Castilla could play third, had his salary redone so the Braves could pursue other players to help them win. This man is a consummate team player.

Of the 4 players you have named in this series of articles, the only one I would even think about trading would be Hudson. And even with Hudson, I would have to be overwhelmed to trade him.

The Braves need some tweaking, especially in the bullpen, but they are not far enough away that they need to start trading their best players. They are going to wind up first or second in runs scored in the NL, so that should rule out trading any position players. Tweaking the bullpen, the bench [starting with keeping Daryle Ward], trying to get some speed in LF, and maybe getting another starter should do the trick. This year was just one of those years. An aberration. Don’t ruin the future by trading a real team player, a true Brave like Chipper, Andruw, or

By Wedgie Evans

October 1, 2006 12:46 AM | Link to this

YES! YES! YES! This is the best time to trade this guy. Chipper is the highest paid player on the team, his value will only go down from here on out, and he has already shown that he can’t be relied on to play a whole season. And now the Braves are considering trading Andruw, who is younger, more durable and more productive than Chipper, to accomodate Chipper’s contract? Give me a break. Trading Chipper for a couple of prospects would free up so much salary to sign the other veterans this team so desperately needs. Chipper is the guy who we absolutely must trade this offseason, assuming Liberty Media is as payroll-conscious as Time Warner.

Hudson is the guy who gives us the least bang for the buck, but trading him at this point wouldn’t be that great of a move because his trade value is about as low as it can go. Keeping him through the All-Star break next year and hoping he pitches reasonably well so that his trade value goes higher would be the right move in his case.

By Matt

October 1, 2006 12:52 AM | Link to this

Comparing 2006 Chipper to 1990 Dale Murphy is a bit of a stretch. In 1990 Murphy hit .232-17-55 in 349 at bats with the Braves, well below Chipper’s production. His trade certianly did not bring much in return other than allowing Dave Justice the chance to play. The Braevs don’t have a quality 3B prospect like that waiting in the wings (anymore). And the team, and the city, owe more to their franchise player of the last decade than to cast him aside. He’s helped us win 10 division titles, three pennants, and a ring. We can allow him to finish at least his productive seasons with us. And, on a side note, Chipper Jones’ absence is not the reason the Braves are currently out of the playoffs. Blame Time Warner for not taking his pay cut and using it to set up a legitimate bullpen. I’ve yet to to see what exactly they have used that money for except pad the stocks.

By fastfoodfreak

October 1, 2006 12:55 AM | Link to this

I think as painful as it may be, trading Chipper now would be a great idea. He is the Braves’ most consisten hitter (except maybe for McCann), but the fact is the Braves will win more with a good lineup and solid pitching, than with a really great lineup and little or no pitching, which is what they have right now. I do NOT agree with a lot of the negativity that has been thrown Chipper’s way. He will be a HUGE asset wherever he goes, but the Braves need to get more pitching if we expect them to contend in the future.

By read a book

October 1, 2006 01:38 AM | Link to this

I can’t believe you people invest so much of your lives in something as asinine as baseball (or sports in general for that matter) and the over-priced pansies that play the game.

By Plate Appearance

October 1, 2006 01:52 AM | Link to this

Chipper will be back and is the very heart of the Braves, olong with other long time Braves John Smoltz and Andruw Jones!

A solution for lead off spot and the Giles ineffectiveness there? Trade for Carl Crawford as your new left fielder. Move Giles back to 2nd, where he has been immensely effective. Then move Renteria back to the lower part of the line up, where he previously flourished with the Cardinals. But don’t trade Marcus!

By dustin

October 1, 2006 02:06 AM | Link to this

I would say yes but whos gonna replace chipper in the lineup?? chipper is still a premiere hitter and i would hate to see us in the playoffs next year without him in the starting lineup! Matt was right…this season is no ones fault but time warners! if we had spent that extra $ we had on a closer in the beginning of the season wed be talking about who the braves are facing in the fist round of the playoffs. Next year well be fine. After we loose smoltz, chipper and andrew is when i know the run is over forshure. We have other good players but none great and can carry a club like those 3!

By William Kitchens

October 1, 2006 02:56 AM | Link to this

Adios!

By William Kitchens

October 1, 2006 02:57 AM | Link to this

Adios!

By ,,,=^.^=,,,

October 1, 2006 05:17 AM | Link to this

You have got to be kidding, right?? Who will replace Chipper?? The same person who replaces him when he is out so many times with these injuries. Chipper is Bobby Cox good ole boy and won’t get rid of this worthless player. I say move on Braves. Its not like they are in the lineups anyway with Chipper. duhhhhhh

By bravlady

October 1, 2006 06:08 AM | Link to this

Perhaps you whiners would like to see Chipper in YANKEE PIN STRIPES! That way you’d really have something to complain about. Chipper’s not the problem for the Braves and trading him will only ensure they find a permanent home at the bottom of NL East heap. Even being hurt this season he still produced more than some did. Can’t complain about that at all. Fix the bullpen situation and move on! The rest will fall into place.

By HOMER RUFFIN

October 1, 2006 06:34 AM | Link to this

CHIPPER IS NOW READY FOR BOBBY COX JOB. HE SOULD STAY WITH BRAVES….

HOMER

By HOMER RUFFIN

October 1, 2006 06:55 AM | Link to this

BOLS THIA TEXT WILL BE BOLDED

CHIPPER THE NEXT GENERAL MANAGER OF THE ATLANTA BRAVES.

HE KNOWS THE GAME, THE PLAYERS AND HAS THE FINESS (SPELL CHECK)

By HOMER RUFFIN

October 1, 2006 07:08 AM | Link to this

bold THIS TEXT WILL BE BOLD LET US GO A STEP FURTHER. PREHAPS CHIPPER COULD ORGANIZE AN ATLANTA GROUP TO BUY THE BRAVES FROM A.O.L. GET CONTROL OF OUR CLUB BACK INTO ATLANTA OWNWERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT.

HOMER note: i am not nuts

By ben

October 1, 2006 07:27 AM | Link to this

time to trade chipper? no. its too late. nobody wants him now. we shouldve traded him 5 years ago.

By Beachcomber

October 1, 2006 08:09 AM | Link to this

324-26-85. And we are going to replace those numbers how? I have always had problems understanding the “dump Chipper” stuff. I know the Mets wish we had done that years ago. This guy’s going to the Hall. There are dozens of teams who would kill for those “off year” numbers at third. “Nobody wants him now?” Put him out there this off season and see how many teams “don’t want him.” The guy’s a winner.

By Braves 20

October 1, 2006 08:17 AM | Link to this

Put me down for keeping a declining third baseman who only hit .325 this season. And while we’re at it - thank heavens we got Wickman’s name on a contract before last night’s debacle. It was a flashback to our eighth innning in Houston last year when Farnsworth threw six outs only to have his defense bungle it. I’m beginning to understand why he opted for the Yankees. Sorry Wicky, no take backs.

By ben

October 1, 2006 08:17 AM | Link to this

nobody wants him with that price tag. we couldve retained some of that pitching without larry’s salary. our biggest mistake was getting rid of bettimit. that one will haunt us for the next 10 years.

By Larry

October 1, 2006 08:23 AM | Link to this

Trade Bobby Cox!

By gdawg

October 1, 2006 08:41 AM | Link to this

Can’t miss what you don’t have! Chipper Jones is not a Braves icon, he’s never provided a clutch post season moment to make him one (Justice, Bream, and Glavine)get rid of him. Let the Yanks have him at least George wouldn’t give him a pass for his lack of leadership and average play.

By John

October 1, 2006 08:45 AM | Link to this

Agee 100% with Ben on Bettimit. What a dumb move trading him. Why did we do that again?

Tough call on Chipper, but I say keep him.

Front office mantra should be: ‘it’s the pitching stupid.’

By Dewan

October 1, 2006 08:54 AM | Link to this

Listen to these clowns talk about the Jones’s. How is Andruw not a cleanup batter. How many Braves have ever hit 40 hr+ back to back. I mean what else do you want. In the game of baseball 30 percent (batting) is considered more than average so why complain. We can always have a 80 RBI 20 Hr guy versus Andruw. He gets paid to drive in runs and stop runs and that is exactly what he does and so does Chipper. THe difference in the 2 is that Andruw is always on the field regardless of his health. History Check? Who led the league last year in come from behind RBI’s. Yes that would be Andruw. As someone pointed out already the problem with the Braves was the pitcing 9no just bullpen but all pitching). Bobby needs to retire as he has no idea how to manage a pitcing staff like Bruce Bochy. Too many games have we witnessed where Yats, Reitsma, Paronto, etc… where blowing a game and he refused to take them out even after they had walked the 1st 2 guys or already givenup runs. I really like Boby but this is a recurring theme even back to the why was Chalie Liebrandt in the game against the Twins. If Joe Torre were still the manager here we would have a couple of WS and not just one. Its time to put up the internet sites retireBobbyandJS.com.

By raymond

October 1, 2006 08:54 AM | Link to this

What can you say about Chipper that has not already been said. He is a heavy anchore that is holding the Braves down and a big reason they won’t be able to resign Andruw.

By kph

October 1, 2006 08:58 AM | Link to this

No way no how never, unequivocally, absolutely, positively, beyond a shadow of a doubt, THE BRAVES SHOULD NEVER TRADE CHIPPER JONES.

By Beachcomber

October 1, 2006 09:00 AM | Link to this

Dewan - You had to do it - every time that wound is almost healed, someone has to mention Charlie Liebrandt. And John - well said - it IS about the pitching stupid.

By SICEM

October 1, 2006 09:00 AM | Link to this

NO! NO! NO! NO! NO!

By Oh My!

October 1, 2006 09:06 AM | Link to this

Geez, in what grade did the first poster drop out of school?

By Beachcomber

October 1, 2006 09:14 AM | Link to this

Dewan - You had to do it - every time that wound is almost healed, someone has to mention Charlie Liebrandt. And John - well said - it IS about the pitching stupid.

By SICEM

October 1, 2006 09:29 AM | Link to this

Dewan, Retire bobby and JS? Man how do you think we won 14 straight division championships, 5 league championships and 1 world series? It was because of those 2 gentlemen! I have been a Braves fan since they arrived in Atlanta in 1966 and have seen this team go through some very hard times and am thrilled with the results that BC and JS have given us as fans. Sure I would have loved to have seen them win the world series more than one time during the last 15 years but damn man there a lot of teams in fact all the other teams in baseball history, now and probably forever that would be tickled to death to have 14 straight championships in thier pocket. The problem now is corporate ownership that dosent give a damn about wheater or not the Braves win. You can bet your boots that if Js had ownership with loose Purse strings they would have won more than 1 WS as well as we wouldnt be in this conversation now! It is not BC or JS fault that the team is not in the playoffs this year it is in every way OWNERSHIPS FAULT! Therefore I say its time to open up an internet site, I HATE TIME WARNER .COM!

By Justin

October 1, 2006 09:43 AM | Link to this

I say trade Larry’s a—!

By Justin

October 1, 2006 09:44 AM | Link to this

Yeah it’s time for Larry to go!

By jason

October 1, 2006 10:07 AM | Link to this

I would keep Chipper and Smoltz. We couldnt afford to get rid of all our veterans in one season and Smoltz is a bargain at 8 million. Chipper is far from a bargain at 11 mil but it still aint bad if he doesnt stay healthy all year. 26 HR and 86 RBI’s isnt bad at all. Trade Andruw for a future ace starter to go with James, trade Giles for bullpen help, and trade Hudson for whatever you can get. Use the extra money to chase Soriano, Lee, and Zito. We will have a playoff caliber team. Laroche broke out, as did McCann. Francouer cant be much worse next year and Renteria will still produce. With Soriano Leading off we would be decent.

By Jeff

October 1, 2006 10:11 AM | Link to this

C. Jones might have made it to the Hall had he stayed healthy. On second thought, he might get to the Hall if he gets healthy and stays that way for a few more seasons.

But there’s no guarantee that he’ll stay healthy. Just like there’s no lock on Smoltz’s arm being healthy. Just like there’s no certainty that Hampton will regain form after a nearly two-year absence…or stay healthy, either.

So, how much will the Braves spend next season on these three older players who are all injury prone? Something in the $25 million range?

That’s in the neighborhood of a third of the team’s $80 million payroll.

This is one of those gambles with no in-between. Is the gamble worth it?

By Larry

October 1, 2006 10:13 AM | Link to this

Don’t worry…I won’t check back to see the inane drivel posted after this…some of the unmitigated drool that is spewed in here…PLEASE!

This is #2 in a series of stupid retorts to a sub-par season. Thank Golly a certain newspaper or its parent company don’t own the team.

By Larry

October 1, 2006 10:22 AM | Link to this

I lied…sort of. I never left, which I must now. I just wanted to say: Jeff has a clue. There. Carry on.

By Jonny

October 1, 2006 10:45 AM | Link to this

I cannot believe anyone would respond to trade rumors about Giles with, “what about trading Chipper?” Wha? Am I missing something here? Giles, the lil guy that tries to lift everything out of the park (singles, Marcus, singles you dummy) or Chipper, the guy that, when healthy, can carry a team.

I don’t think the Braves missed Giles when he was out of the lineup. I know they missed Chipper. If Chipper cannot be healthy next year the Braves should try and renegotiate his contract down to keep him here in Atlanta. I think he would deal. Besides, what player really wants to be the old vet on a new team in a new town? Not having to switch teams in the last 5 years of a career has to be worth something.

By Yars

October 1, 2006 10:52 AM | Link to this

Don’t be surprised if Chipper retires in a Braves uniform. His contract is up after the 2008 season, and if he is still putting up solid numbers, he would resign with the Braves at a hometown discount. He has already made his big $$$ in baseball, as he has stated in the past. I truly believe he will have a solid 2007 season, (.310/33/110) and quiet all those who say he is finished. The Braves need for Chipper to stay healthy if they do decide to trade Andruw over the winter. It seems like some people want to point the finger at Chipper and blame him for the Braves pathetic 2006 season. Point the finger at the lousy bullpen, (you traded for Bob Wickman too little too late, eh JS?) no leadoff hitter, and no left fielder. Address those issues in the offseason, (smart move in keeping Wickman) and I believe the Braves will have a tough team in 2007. There is really no way the Braves can keep Andruw. If JS gets a good offer for him over the winter, go for it. I love Andruw just as much as everyone else, but we have to be realistic here. Don’t be shocked if he is in another uniform for 2007 spring training.

By Sam

October 1, 2006 11:48 AM | Link to this

What are you guys crazy in thinking about getting rid of Chipper. You are nuts. Why would they had traded Betermit. You got to keep Chipper. Plus keep Andruw too. If the Braves got rid of both Jones…then i will not root for the Bravos. I have been a Braves since they were in Boston. If they do it then the Braves fans should hang JS.

By Someone with some sense

October 1, 2006 12:35 PM | Link to this

Do any of you people think before you write? Who cares if you aren’t fans anymore if Chipper and Andruw are traded. The most important thing is to do the best thing in the interest of the team. Winning produces more paying customers than fans of particular players. I guarantee half of the morons who say they are through with the Braves if they trade Chipper or Andruw didn’t even go to a game this year. Bottom line Chipper and Andruw make too much for what they produce, which is inconsistentcy. I love both of these guys but you have to know when to cut bait. We missed the time to trade Chipper back in July when he was playing better than anyone in baseball. And we are about to miss on Andruw. Folks this is just like the stock market, you trade when you can get optimum value. We need pitching,pitching and more pitching, plus a leadoff hitter,that is our problem. Getting runs is not, we’ve lost a slew of games where we scored more than 6 runs, that is inexcuseable. I doubt we can unload Chipper and I doubt our new owners will want to swallow salary to move him. It is imperative to move Hudson, for fisheads and rice and to trade Andruw and Giles for young pitching and sign Dave Roberts tobat leadoff. I don’t know if anyone missed this but Langerhans played some spectacular Centerfield when Andruw was out. Aybar also has just as much potential as Betemit so you need to get off that rusty bandwagon. I don’t know about you but this lineup looks good to me.

1)Roberts LF 2)Renteria SS 3)Chipper 3B (when healthy) 4)LaRoche 1B 5)McCann C 6)Francouer RF 7)Langerhans CF 8)Prado/Aybar 2b 9)Liriano?? P (from Andruw trade)

That is a stout lineup even without Andruw and Giles. More importantly 3-6 can be arranged just about anyway and still get solid production from any of those slots. The key is to get value for Giles and Andruw while you can and if Chipper starts hot and can be traded you do that to.

By pathetic brave

October 1, 2006 12:37 PM | Link to this

Bye Bye chipper.

By Brad in KY

October 1, 2006 05:22 PM | Link to this

No one is going to trade for Chipper Jones unless the Braves pay a large portion of his salary. This is due not only to how much he is paid but also how often he’s been injured the past few seasons. Since the purpose of trading Chipper is to dump salary, it wouldn’t make sense to trade Chipper and to still be paying the bulk of his salary. So, the Braves are stuck with Chipper for the next two years.

If Chipper is healthy, then the Braves should be happy to have him. If his injuries continue, then they’ll continue with the system they’ve been using (except now it’s Aybar instead of Betemit) for the last two seasons of Chipper’s contract.

This doesn’t bother me because the Braves’ offense is the least of their concerns. In fact, they’re more than adequate offensively. The problem is pitching - both starting and relieving.

This seems so obvious, so why all the controversy?

By SMITHTV

October 1, 2006 05:41 PM | Link to this

I don’t believe Chipper juiced at all. The comment below is outrageous! Chipper’s 34- thats the reason for his injuries. Let’s see if this shoe fits?: What happened to Sosa and Giambi when they left the juice? Answer: warning track power. Giambi fought hard to comeback and Sosa was never the same. Has Chipper had warning track power the last few seasons or this year? 26 homeruns in 411 ABs doesn’t sound like it to me.

Chipper is the face of the franchise and is still a huge factor when healthy. He stays.

By BravesFan

October 1, 2006 06:03 PM | Link to this

Chipper is the heart of the Braves. Most productive, superstar, can carry the team when healthy. Gave up millions for the team. NO WAY HE GOES!! We would never be able to replace his attitude, his help with the younger players, his defense or his offense for the same salary.

The BRAVES organization needs to do what most of the clubs need to do. Bring in expert trainers and professionals to help with conditioning (not just weights as in most instances), especially stretching and flexibility and endurance. It is absurd that MLB players are paid as much as they are and there are no mandatory conditioning and flexibility programs to help prevent injuries.

By Howard Wright

October 1, 2006 08:03 PM | Link to this

Chipper is a Brave from beginning to end. To possibly cut down on his injuries and give him more playing time he should be moved to 1st base and LaRoach moved to left field.

By Joe

October 2, 2006 06:26 AM | Link to this

In response to an earlier post, does anyone notice how McCann seems to resemble chipper in style of hitting…professional, thinking man’s approach, short compact swing, will hit the ball where pitched, for power. and, Franceour seems to resemble Andruw. Cannon arm, instinctive hitter, explosive power with the bat. anyone whos watched knows what im talking about. Of course, McCann doesnt have the power of Chipper quite yet. The guy who impressed me the most was Laroche…awesome power, and turning into a complete hitter…driving in runs, hitting for average, homers, slugging, etc. He hits it as long as Andruws…except Andruw’s 500 footer at Petco :) And, don’t forget Chippers 3 homer night, where each one went farther than the last…which ended up at what, 470 or so? (Applause)

By Ken

October 2, 2006 08:54 AM | Link to this

Chipper should never be traded.

By Jonathan Lowery

October 2, 2006 02:11 PM | Link to this

Maybe it’s just me but I think it’s funny when everybody talks about chipper they say “he’s only 34” but when they talk about Andruw its “he’s 30, he’s old, we better trade him”

Someone please tell me why this is

By eo

October 2, 2006 02:30 PM | Link to this

keep chipper, period.

By jose quervo, lll

October 2, 2006 02:36 PM | Link to this

Take a tip from the Twins and A’s—develop the Farm System!

By dino

October 2, 2006 04:14 PM | Link to this

A fan since the Braves moved to Atlanta, through the lean and the good years, no way do I think we should trade Chipper. He is a threat each time at bat and not many better at third. Please keep him; we’ve traded many that have come back to haunt us! dino greer, s c

By Mike D.

October 2, 2006 04:23 PM | Link to this

BravesFan made some good points. With contract complications the way they are, I’ll leave the traveling papers to someone else to write. I hate to see players with good team spirit go, and, Chipper is one of those, in the opinion of most Braves watchers. But, it seems better off-season programs are needed to help players avoid injury.

By "sprinkles"

October 2, 2006 04:31 PM | Link to this

Chipper should stay ONLY if he steps up his off-season training. He needs to get onto a great nutrition/supplement program and in addition to weight training he needs to add a mixture of stretching, yoga, pilates and ballet to his routines so that he can keep his joints and muscles limber and prevent injuries.

Also, some of these team trainers are really out of shape and are doing old and outdated exercises. He should not be having all these problems, the guy is only 34 years old. Please Chipper if you are reading this, find someone who is knowledgeable about fitness and follow a strict off-season regime. (how about fellow Texan, Lee Labrada)

By keith

October 2, 2006 05:41 PM | Link to this

this is for the BLOGS about chipper, andruw, hudson, and giles. SHUT UP!!!!! my son turned 14 in july and this is the ONLY losing braves team he has seen. i’m 46 and remember the 100 lose seasons. i remember always wating till next year and that started in july most times. so shut up and trust JS and Bobby because as a TRUE braves fan i believe they willl make the best moves THEY think best to get us back to the playoffs and world series. OH and i believe they have more than say 60 or so years of baseball knowledge between them that myself and all you so called fans dont have.

By Madalan

October 2, 2006 05:56 PM | Link to this

Chipper has been a standard by which this team and his face should be married til the end. He is a good example for others and should retire as a Brave. He has never been a criminal .. yet.lol

He seems to me to be the Dale Murphy of his times. alan

By CRANBERY

October 2, 2006 07:24 PM | Link to this

Are you kidding………trade Chipper and fans will leave the team in droves!

By Geri Puzon

October 2, 2006 07:43 PM | Link to this

By Bonnie

October 2, 2006 08:06 PM | Link to this

Paying a player, any player, $11M for playing 2/3’s of a season (for the last two years) is not a smart thing to do..

I just don’t see that we have any way out… He can veto any trade.. I really can’t think of any team that would take him…

I do not believe he is the face of the Braves… That is Andruw Jones. Without Andruw we would not have won last year. Without Andruw this year our record would be worse than it is…

I really don’t see Schuerholz changing this team very much…

By Ed

October 2, 2006 08:32 PM | Link to this

It”s time for John Scoholtz.bobby cox to exit the braves. trade A.J.giles,terry p. i belive Orr is ready to play.

By randall perry

October 2, 2006 10:10 PM | Link to this

trade chipper and giles

By vetteowner

October 3, 2006 12:11 AM | Link to this

Chipper needs to be GONE!! A player making the money he makes needs to learn how to “suck it up” and play hurt. Instead, Chipper’s content to sit on his lazy duff and draw his paycheck!! Andrew and Francouer and McCann play hurt everyday! Trade Chipper, get rid of his enormous salary, and spend that money on someone who WANTS TO PLAY!!!

By Toby Cash

October 3, 2006 06:22 AM | Link to this

Do you suppose the Braves would trade Chipper for Wilson Betemit heads up? Sounds good to me.

By Moore Cowbell

October 3, 2006 08:31 AM | Link to this

Nothing makes you feel your IQ drop like reading these idiotic posts. Most of these people would get pummeled by a 6 year old in a chess game.

By Pete

October 3, 2006 09:43 AM | Link to this

Chipper has to stay. The nagging injuries are unfortunate, but we have decent backups and that gives a couple of other guys a chance to play and set themselves up for a future full-time role. When Chipper is in there, he’s one of the best in baseball.

By jmac

October 3, 2006 12:32 PM | Link to this

There is no doubt that the Braves should keep Chipper. He is the only clutch player they have and that includes A. Jones. The only problem has come up the last two seasons with injuries without those Chipper is still one of the elite players of the league. Losing Chipper in the lineup is like losing Smoltzie from the rotation.It’s just the same no matter who is still in there behind them. If Chipper gets to 150 games next year we will not hear anything about trading him because the numbers will speak for themself.

By Dave from Chattanooga

October 3, 2006 03:38 PM | Link to this

them”selves.”

By Rhonda

October 3, 2006 04:22 PM | Link to this

Chipper should stay. The Braves need him and his leadership. Even when he’s been sidelined,he offers the younger guys advice on their hitting. Quite honestly,the Braves made a big blunder when they traded Betemit to Los Angeles. Orr & Ayabr have been good at that position when they played,but Betemit was better.

By Stan

October 3, 2006 11:36 PM | Link to this

Keep Chipper, bat him 5th. That way it doesn’t dirupt the lineup when he is hurt. 1.Langerhans 2. Giles 3. Francouer 4. A. Jones 5. Chipper 6. The Roach 7. McCann 8. Renteria . Sounds workable.

By Canuckbravesfan

October 4, 2006 12:48 AM | Link to this

What is it with this Betemit thing ? He hit .241 for the Dodgers and was benched late in Sept. Very reminiscent of Mark DeRosa who failed miserable when given the everyday job at 3B. Betemit bulked up which left 3b the only position for him as he does not have the range to play short or second anymore. Aybar has a lot of potential and is much younger.

By Gordon

October 4, 2006 07:56 AM | Link to this

Keep Chipper, Trade Giles. I’ld like to see Soriano play here! Langerhans is a good backup for Diaz. With that and some better pitching we are a sure thing!

By Rick

October 4, 2006 01:05 PM | Link to this

I would trade Chipper. Preferably to an American League team for some pitching prospects. If they can save some money on his salary, it will help to get a pitching free agent.

By Rickey Bolton

October 4, 2006 01:46 PM | Link to this

We need Clipper to come back because when he is not hurt his plays GREAT!! The best 3rd Baseball Player forever.

By nick

October 4, 2006 07:34 PM | Link to this

I think its time to trade Chipper he stills has a lot of value if healthy. If the Braves could get some good arms for him I would do it

By Mills

October 4, 2006 11:06 PM | Link to this

The Braves better not trade Chipper or I will be one p** of Mo Fo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Lou

October 5, 2006 09:17 AM | Link to this

Get real folks! No one will pick up his salary for an injury prone third baseman that cannot be penciled in the lineup unitl 5 minutes before game time. At 34 he now belongs in American League as a DH , but for those teams there are a lot of choices at a lot less money. Forget it, he will be a Brave until he retires and he will start moving into a part time role.

By Josh

October 5, 2006 11:10 AM | Link to this

Whoever suggested Chipper took roids is an idiot. You can tell someone’s juicing when they grow older and DON’T have injuries. Chipper’s #’s are about as consistent when he’s healthy as any player in history. There is another player on the Braves I do have my doubts about in terms of steroids, but it’s not Chipper…..nor Andruw for that matter. Think smaller

By RHETT

October 5, 2006 03:22 PM | Link to this

I guess loyalty is dead…. to bad because all of you who are talking about trading Chipper away to someother team had better watch what you wish for. you know when he’s gone he’s gone. his #’s are the best with few exceptions in braves history. but then again what should be expected from a bunch of spoiled brats for fans. Most of the nay sayers probably can’t remember what the braves were like before 1993. Give him a break I’d like to see how most of you would hold up to half of what these players have to give of themselves for an entire career let alone a career.

By Jim

October 5, 2006 11:58 PM | Link to this

Chipper Jones should have been gone long ago. He has never been much of an infielder, (too slow, and no hustle). He probably won’t draw much attention by NL teams. Look for an AL team in need of a DH and try to get some pitching in return.

By Francsico

October 6, 2006 11:18 AM | Link to this

I know all of us want Chipper in our team, but we can’t build a team around a player what in spite his batting figures this year couldn’t be an every day player for the future seasons. AJ is our man, his batting figures show us who is the man to fulfil this role. Look the whole braves batting figures they produced extremely good the the entire 2006 season. The main lack was the starting rotation. Trading Chipper to AL, the braves could bring the key player to fill his role in the team. We don’t need a player of his category, we need a less value player and a pitcher to make more strong our 2006 wracked rotation through 2007 season. Along with chipper we also need to trade Gile. Completing these trades the braves would have more balanced team through next season. I for one think the braves need both treades to be real contender in the NL league.

By Titothebear

October 6, 2006 11:28 AM | Link to this

By BirdDawg September 30, 2006 09:47 PM | Link to this Hmmm.

One has to wonder if old Chipper the Dipper was actually Chipper the Juicer.

It fits. The sudden rash of nagging injuries the last two years. The last two years of which have seen the first kind of steriods testing of any kind at the MLB level.

If the shoe fits, ya know?

Well,

Nice job BirdDawg! You’re spreading the innuendo around like a farmer spreads barnyard manure. Have you ever been on steroids? Ever had any nagging injuries? I’ve never seen Chipper’s name mentioned in connection with ‘roids, before re3ading your speculative hatchet attack. Prove your case!

By crazybravesfan

October 10, 2006 11:42 AM | Link to this

I. think that we should start looking for a new third baseman.Chipper is one of the best,but he is to prone to injuries. He has to play at least one hundred and fifty games to help our team to the playoffs. I can not see him playing that many games again without getting hurt. We must start thinking of the future. We mus keep andruw,McCann,Smoltz and francour and build the team from there

By crazybravesfan

October 10, 2006 11:59 AM | Link to this

I would love to see Chipper to stay,but ewe must think of the team. With all his injuries we can not take a chance om him not playing at least 150 games. we have to look at the future of the team. We have the best center fielder in baseball,the best catcher,and maybe the best right fielder.Now WE should build around them. I heard rumours about trading Marcus. I think that would be a tragidy. I hope we go all the way in 2007

By Jim

October 11, 2006 10:01 AM | Link to this

Chipper is lazy, overpaid, and, over-the-hill. There are too many good,young infielders around to settle for Chipper.

By Jim

October 11, 2006 10:04 AM | Link to this

Message for crazybravesfan - try using Spell Check.