ajcsportstalk

By Mike

December 5, 2006 06:29 AM | Link to this

No doubt Giles is a fine defensive 2nd baseman but defense without offense isn’t worth the $5 M price tag. LaRoche, on the other hand, is a proven hitter who will likely only get better and plays very ok 1st base. Pitching we need, yes, but we’re also going to need some runs scored.

By Michael

December 5, 2006 06:36 AM | Link to this

Here we go again. But it is not the Braves management’s fault. I know we need pitching help. They have done an outstanding job considering the salary cap. It all goes back to Ted Turner’s overgrown ego when he thought he could be the C.E.O. of Time-Warner and he gave away the Braves to a cheap corporation.

By Bubbafetch

December 5, 2006 06:47 AM | Link to this

We need LaRoche, but Giles is expendable with the Braves salary situation, and Giles not being a lead-off hitter. If our payroll was expanded, there would be no doubt to keep both.

By Joe

December 5, 2006 07:03 AM | Link to this

We need a MAJOR trade!!!!! Trading these 2, we’d want Figgins, and Ervin Santana. Also get rid of Andrew Jones for pitching.

By Bob

December 5, 2006 07:13 AM | Link to this

The ownership of the Braves is losing site of several things. Money can’t buy everything. Keep LaRoache and Giles. Have the front office honchos take a small cut and get more talent. The Brave have the money, just affraid of where to spend it. Offering any money to Glavine would have been a waste. Glavine has reached the “has been” stage. Smoltz will finish his career here and be happy to do so.

By brent

December 5, 2006 07:22 AM | Link to this

Bob,

Can you please provide us a break-down of all the Braves money and where you think it should be spent?

By Kay

December 5, 2006 07:25 AM | Link to this

The braves had no problems with runs last year and LaRoche had 90 of them. His defensive ability is great. Why give up a 90 run player who will hit 35-40 home runs(and I do believe this) for a Figgins. I dont get it. Yes it takes talent to get talent, but losing LaRoche will hurt badly. Especially when we will lose another one next year in Andruw.

Its almost like we are the minor league club for all the other majors. We raise them, they perform and they play for other clubs. Im sorry, seeing Wainwright close out the world series game when we struggled for a closer all year really made my stomach churn. LaRoche for Figgins, not even close. Figgins is a 60 rbi 3rd baseman. I dont want him. Keep Adam

By Charles

December 5, 2006 07:26 AM | Link to this

After some of the mental lapses by LaRoche last year, it wasn’t much of a surprise he probably wouldn’t be in the Brave’s future plans. Giles hitting slump through most of last season didn’t make him irreplaceable either. It’s just a shame they ended up letting their supposeded infielder of the future (Betemit) go to those hated Dodgers. Hopefully, the seemingly endless line of young farmhand hitters will fill the voids and the trades will bring back the pitching we’ve become accustomed to the past 15 years.

By exbrave

December 5, 2006 07:29 AM | Link to this

So lets get rid of two of our best: because we were to stupid to keep our pitching coach

By ERic

December 5, 2006 07:30 AM | Link to this

why in the world would you get rid of Andruw Jones. He is a great solid defensive player. Keeping this guy would help Frenchy develop into the player he has the potential to become. Sadly I believe the Braves would deal Adruw before their “golden boy” Chipper.

By Harry

December 5, 2006 07:35 AM | Link to this

Its a shame atlanta can’t bring together a group of players that can be more consistent with a winning record. The pitching staff should be up for grabs and they should start with moving John Smoltz on. He should have been traded back when maddox, glavine and avery were. The management needs to look closely at the coaching staff as well start with Bobby cox, hold him accountable. The team is no better than its leader. But until the management wakes up, we can see the Braves become like the Falcons, being compared to the hopeless Hawks, or sad to say what’s that hockey team franchise. Atlanta is too great a city not to have a winning sports team in its midst.

By aksnooks

December 5, 2006 07:36 AM | Link to this

exactly what I was thinking, exbrave

By roman35

December 5, 2006 07:36 AM | Link to this

LaRoche had 1 good year……. he’s not the type of guy that is going to put up those same numbers year after year… he’s the type to use that one year to get a big paycheck and then sit back and return to the same old pitiful platoon player. Giles numbers slid when they pushed him into the lead-off role…..but, on the flip side there was a definate difference in Giles physical appearance and lack of power numbers. I’d keep Giles and put him back at #2 spot….. See ya LaRoche and why didn’t we get something good in return for Andruw Jones trade last year? Let’s get something this year!

By robert

December 5, 2006 07:39 AM | Link to this

This is just more of the same. There selling out.

By Eleanor

December 5, 2006 07:42 AM | Link to this

No, no, no - we need to keep Adam and certainly Andruw. We have a tremendous outfield and Adam is becoming better each year. Marcus is expendable.

By Eugene

December 5, 2006 07:42 AM | Link to this

Hell NO! This is a bad idea. This is constant and ongoing with the Braves ALWAYS needing bullpen help. No matter who they get in return would be gone in a year or two. It has been a revolving door in the bullpen since 1991! How many pitchers have been used in the bullpen since 1991??? It has been a cast of thousands!! None of the guys ever seem to work out or last for long so DO NOT give up 2 of your starting 8 for a couple of bullpen pitchers who are a dime a dozen. Just use the minor league system to develope your own bullpen help.

By todd h

December 5, 2006 07:43 AM | Link to this

i can see dealing giles but, roachie would leave a huge hole. who plays first? 2 mil for a guy who hits 35-40 hr and 90-100 rbi is a bargin. i know we need pithing but it seems alot to give up considering our circumstances. can we get this team sale complete so we can move the flip on with building a winner.

By Dave knockahomer

December 5, 2006 07:50 AM | Link to this

Marcus go; Adam stay. that simple Don’t be stupid, Schuerholz… Adam is just about a premiere first baseman and we have not had one of those for a long time. enuf said! MARCUS GO! ADAM STAY!!!

By rob

December 5, 2006 07:57 AM | Link to this

As a Mets fan, i say sell them all off and get rid of your future, it used to be fun competition seeing the Mets come to town and see some good ball games, but if you sell off all your good players, it will get old and boring beating you time after time after time. With the exception of Smoltz, the braves are just not a good team anymore, and you can blame the owners for that. I only hope Glavin wins number 300 here, so he gets the ovation he deserves.

By Jeff

December 5, 2006 08:00 AM | Link to this

The Braves have been searching for a power hitting first baseman for years…they finally have one, at a bargain price for now, and they want to deal him?? I don’t think there’s a comparable replacement for his offense/defense at his current price…please don’t bring in another Robert Fick or some washed up 40 y/o vet to take his place!!

By Jay

December 5, 2006 08:03 AM | Link to this

Not surprising about Giles of course, but a little about Cockroache. He did hit well, but there are two fairly big holes in his game. One, he has famous mental lapses, one which cost us a game. Two, He is very streaky. The last couple seasons he has one excellent half and one awful half. This year his good half was the second half.

Personally, I would rather keep Laroache and trade A Jones. We all know he is gonna walk for nothing next year…best to get something now while we can so we dont pull a Washington and let our strongest slugger leave with nothing in return.

By Kay

December 5, 2006 08:03 AM | Link to this

We are sponsers for major league teams. We find them, train them and then trade them just when they get good. Wainwright for JD Drew. Drew left the next year and Wainwright closed out the world series. I am sick of this. The braves need to keep their own talent and thats that. Open up the purse strings. If you need a starter or reliever get one, spend the money like the other teams. Quit trading vital parts of our team.

By Hotrod

December 5, 2006 08:08 AM | Link to this

I thinks its pretty much been proven.

Pitching wins penants.

By j.t.

December 5, 2006 08:08 AM | Link to this

The management of the Braves is up to its old malaise again…After years of inadequate staffing, Bobby Cox created a team that went to the Big Game and one….once! For the next ten years, the Braves kept trying to win soley on pitching. It can’t happen. Then they scuttled the pitching staff to cut costs and the Braves were back to their 1980’s selves. Now, they want to beef up the pitching again. Great! But for heaven’s sake, let’s get some offense too! Giles and LaRoche hit the ball and they’re just about the only one any more who do. You’d think that years and years of strong offense and defense from the Yankees would show Braves management how games are won - but apparently the Braves management is simply THAT ignorant!

By dale r

December 5, 2006 08:14 AM | Link to this

trade Giles but keep LaRoche, the Braves aren’t gonna do anything but crap and fall back in it.

By Tommy

December 5, 2006 08:16 AM | Link to this

It’s pretty sad that the Braves are looking at moving a first baseman who hit 32 HRs because they may have to pay him 2-3 million next year. That right there tells you the financial mess this team is in. The Braves are stuck until they fix the #1 problem —4 players (Chipper, Andruw, Smoltz and Hudson) make up 50% of their payroll. They are now a mid-market team like the Tigers and Cardinals. Paying a $13 million to a guy like Chipper, who can only get through 125-130 games a season, is a killer.

Trading Giles would be a disaster. Granted, he’s a lousy leadoff man, but he is arguably the best #2 hitter in the national league. He can be easily replaced?? OK, find another .300/18HR/20SB second baseman who plays plus defense. Compared to what we’re paying Hudson and Chipper he’s a bargain.

We need to realize that this team’s ceiling is limited until Chipper, Smoltz and Hudson move on and we free up about $35 million in payroll. Until then the team needs to build for the future and play for 85 wins and the wild card. It’s the best we can hope for the next couple years.

Oh, and that ‘hockey team franchise’ that dude referred to in an earlier post is 10 games over .500. You better get to know the Thrashers—they’re the best pro team in town right now.

By Steve

December 5, 2006 08:19 AM | Link to this

I would like to see the Braves trade Marcus Giles for some pitching maybe for a set up man. Wille Aybar could fill in at second if needed. Trading Adam Laroche doesn’t make sense to me!!!! He had a great second half of the season increasing his home runs, RBI’s and raising his batting average. Who would the Braves have play first? Anyone in the farm system? What will they get in return? Does anyone know?

By Braves20

December 5, 2006 08:24 AM | Link to this

Not so sure we have seen LaRoche’s best year yet. Giles seems a foregone conclusion but LaRoche could give us another solid five years or more at first. Plus that is a position where we’re not exactly brimming with talent. Ward is a role player not a guy you want out there everyday given his weakness against lefties. JS also needs to look at Aybar’s numbers in the leadoff spot last year - they were as good as anybody available out there.

By Turnin2

December 5, 2006 08:31 AM | Link to this

H E L L NOOOOO!!!! Both Giles and LaRoche should stay - besides that is WAY too much to ‘secure top notch pitching!! Especially when he let a very TOP NOTCH pitcher slip right thru his vindictive little fingers! I’ve already paid for my season ticket (hoping Glavine was on the team) now I’ve very sorry I did… all I’ve heard is “trade Giles”, now it’s LaRoche too — both are solid on defense and you can’t tell me we’d upgrade on a bat - they are good hitters. And HEY WORLD WAKE UP - EVERY SINGLE PLAYER IN THE LINEUP IS A POTENTIAL LEADOFF HITTER AT SOME POINT DURING THE GAME. I’m sick of hearing about gettng a solid lead off hitter!! BS to JS — keep Giles and LaRoche — you’re gonna need the upgraded defense with the crap you’re signing as pitchers!

By Dodge Carithers

December 5, 2006 08:37 AM | Link to this

The Braves Pitching will be a little better this year if it stays the same as last year. Marcus Giles is expandable but do not let go of Larouche—he has proven he can hit in the 40’sand 50”s home run and produce the 100 or more RBI—keep Larouch and get what you can in a pitcher for Giles and a minor league player.

By edward

December 5, 2006 08:40 AM | Link to this

Do we have to go through this again??? Giles is the best hitting number2 second baseman around. I have resigned myself that we will lose him because the management was too lazy to get a real leadoff guy. Aybar did a nice job filling in. He could be a starter and that would be ok too. If we lose Giles, I pray it isnt for some clown named Figgins. Bobby cant turn around the careers of every washed up player!! The big beef is this…TRADE HUDSON!! How much does he cost and how bad has he been?? Why not make that the first priority? Giles for good solid bullpen help and get rid of “HUDDY” for some solid pitching. I am sure he still has enough value to get us 2 decent 2nd and 3rd pitchers. No one is going to give up a top-shelf pitcher, so lets get 2 pitchers we can comfortably put in as our #2 & 3 guys. Keep LaRoche. He had ONE bad game. How many bad games did anyone else ever have with the club in one season? I remember Maddux losing a few and Chipper and Andruw. No one ever called for them to be sent out for one game. And for the comment about us having an “endless stream of players to fill in from the minors”. There is a reason they are still in the minors..NOT GOOD ENOUGH. I know McCann and Frenchy, but they are alot more talented than the ones still in the minors. You cant always bring up a new player every week and expect lightning in a bottle. HUDSON HUDSON HUDSON!!!!! TRADE HIM!!!

By DawgFan

December 5, 2006 08:44 AM | Link to this

Giles is a solid offensive player. He’s a poor lead-off hitter. Keep him and shift every one down a spot in the order and put Aybar (Dodger player) in the outfield as he CAN hit leadoff. Giles gives this team Heart too. If J.S. gave him 5 years for $30MM he’d take it. They guy can play and he’s tough as nails. All of his injuries come from going all out. Show some patience w/ Huddy. He can come around this year, plus w/ Hampton back we’ll have a good starting rotation, and that may have him relax some, he’s pressing to met expectations. And this could finally be DeVine’s year to bridge from starter to Big Bob. We were what 5 games from making the playoffs? This team does not need a major over-haul except at Lead-Off hitter, and Dave Roberts ain’t worth $6MM a year at 34 yrs. of age. Smart Pass by JS there. I sound down-right optimistic.

By JP

December 5, 2006 08:44 AM | Link to this

The Braves needs to check out whether or not Chipper Jones is worth the mmmmmillions they have squandered away on him. He’s apparently too old to be proficient at his game. That money would supplement the amount needed to pay for players we need to make OUR BRAVES a consistently winning team which our city(state) deserves. It takes a TEAM not one person.

By Jt

December 5, 2006 08:49 AM | Link to this

Why would you trade Laroche? He is inexpensive-hits for power and average-and a good defender. Who would be the first baseman? I defintely do not understand that thinking.

By JWF

December 5, 2006 08:50 AM | Link to this

Chone Figgins is a pure lead-off hitter. If we lose LaRoche … I hope we go after Adam Dunn (we could probably get thim cheap!) Despite the strikeouts, we could get 40-plus homeruns, a genuine base stealer, AND a stronger bullpen! Talk about a “blue light special” …

By OLD COOT

December 5, 2006 08:52 AM | Link to this

Gripe and complain, gripe and complain, you sound like a bunch of METS fans!

By RLU

December 5, 2006 08:56 AM | Link to this

We finally get a decent 1st baseman who will only get better and you want to trade him! Give me a break!! There has to be a better way. I am pleased that we didn’t waste any money on Glavin. And for God’s sake, don’t trade Andrew Jones!!! What about Lanherhans?

By Stuart

December 5, 2006 09:19 AM | Link to this

The Braves need leadership in the clubhouse. The Braves seem to be going out and getting players that can’t perform at the elite level in MLB. So go get Jerome Myers…another with not a lick of talent, but will teach these guys how to win and get the streak started again. Heard he could be cheap at around $900k on a 3 year deal.

By Fulton

December 5, 2006 09:20 AM | Link to this

Hey Old Coot Explain to me again exactly what Mets fans are complaining about? Our future looks quite bright and we’re gonna be set for a while. As usual, Braves fans are sooo busy hatin on US, instead of woyrying about your own backyard. Ya’ll better do something, because that 14yr division title chyt is old AND tired! It’s all about rings, baby and I GUARANTEE, we’ll get one before you!!

By Trader E

December 5, 2006 09:21 AM | Link to this

I’m not opposed to trading anyone on the 40 man roster that can make our team better. Having said that, trading McCann, Francoeur, or Chuck James will not make our team better so they are untouchable. Everyone else should be fair game.

I propose we trade Andruw to the Dodgers for Matt Kemp, James Looney, and Scott Elbert (one of the top lefty pitching prospects in baseball).

Trade LaDouche to the Pirates for Mike Gonzalez (I think the Pirates will relent and trade him).

Trade Giles, Langerhans, and Diaz to whoever will take them for some decent bullpen help.

Package Scott Elbert, Kyle Davies, and Salty to the D-Rays for Carl Crawford.

The 2007 line-up would look like this:

Crawford (CF) Renteria (SS) Chipper (3B…until he gets hurt) McCann (C) Francoeur (RF) Kemp (LF) Looney (1B) Prado (2B)

Starters: Smoltz, Hudson, Hampton, James, HoRam

Bullpen: Wickman, Gonzalez, McBride, Boyer, Yates, Paranto, Villareal, (Acquired by Trade)

Bench: Brian Pena, Orr, Aybar, Thorman, Ward

I realize that is 26, but you can count on Yates, Paranto, or Villareal crapping the bed in spring training and not making the final 25 man roster.

By JWF

December 5, 2006 09:25 AM | Link to this

Hey Stuart …

Chipper can be that “leader.” Since he only plays a half of season on the field … maybe he can be useful on the bench …?

By knockahoma

December 5, 2006 09:36 AM | Link to this

All this talk about overpaying Chipper, Andruw, Smoltz and Huddy… Nobody mentioned Hampton, and the fact that we have to pay this brittle gimp $16 illion next year. What a fine addition he’s been to this team!

By Braves Would Be Foolish

December 5, 2006 09:41 AM | Link to this

The Braves would be as foolish to trade LaRoche as they were to trade Betemit. Let Giles go on and send Hudson with him. He costs too much and has produced too little for an “ace” pitcher.

By d

December 5, 2006 09:42 AM | Link to this

The Braves NEED TO GO Ahead and trade Giles and LaRoache for bullpen help we have young talent to replace them and Figgins can hit leadoff

By jpg

December 5, 2006 09:45 AM | Link to this

Why get Rid of LaRoche? He’s a solid hitter and he’s not overpaid. Now Giles, He’s overpaid. Great second baseman, but not a team player. Unwilling to hit for average when given the leadoff position. He will always swing for the fences. THis is not want the Braves need. Trade Giles, BUt Keep LaRoche. (as long as he keeps his head in the game) I’m not going to get my hopes up. It’s obvious we need proven starters. The problem is they cost money, and unless things change. I don’t think the braves are willing to spend money.

By glenn hitchcock

December 5, 2006 09:54 AM | Link to this

To even consider using Giles or LaRoche as trade bait is another one of the continuing no-brainers that the Braves are known for. A great team has been destroyed for the sake of money.

By glenn hitchcock

December 5, 2006 09:55 AM | Link to this

To even consider using Giles or LaRoche as trade bait is another one of the continuing no-brainers that the Braves are known for. A great team has been destroyed for the sake of money.

By Tim

December 5, 2006 09:58 AM | Link to this

Its a great idea. These guys are inconsistent and strike out way too much. That is a huge problem right now for the braves- WAYYYYY too many strike outs. Get bullpen help for them- and then play younger cheaper guys who might be more consistent at the plate. Go for it!

By Jim

December 5, 2006 10:00 AM | Link to this

Is John Schuerholz nuts or what? The Braves trade off MORE good players than a lot of teams ever have. John’s signing the Yankees crippled relief pitcher,Sturtze, sure makes a lot of sense. I think we need a new G.M. John seems to be getting senile. Signing washouts and pitchers with rotator cuff problems don’t seem real smart to me.

By Ga Liberal

December 5, 2006 10:01 AM | Link to this

All that matters in baseball is outs. Runs don’t matter. Stolen bases don’t matter. Homers don’t matter. Runs are a byproduct of the failure to get outs. Outs are either from good pitching or great defense. Braves have great defense; they need reliable, good pitching. Trade LaRoche; keep Giles.

By DJ

December 5, 2006 10:05 AM | Link to this

Simply put, the Braves are in a big hole here, with no one willing to rescue them. JS seems hopeless here. To even mention or entertain the thought of trading LaRoche is simply ridiculous. There can’t be that much confidence in turning over the first basemen reigns to Scott Thorman? Give me a break. It’s bad enough that JS has not even given a thought about a lead-off hitter for next season, unless he has that confidence in Langerhans once again. He says his top priority is pitching, but if he just takes a closer look as to what he already has, he should be able to evaluate those guys more closely. Signing Sturtze is not what I would consider a major upgrade, especially with him coming off rotator cuff surgery. Aggressiveness is not a measure that JS is applying to his approach at the Winter Meetings. I do realize that he is under the gun with a mediocre budget, but some of these rumors are just down right dumb. Focusing on pitching is fine, but we need a potent lineup that will strike fear to the opposing pitchers in ‘07.

By Bham Al

December 5, 2006 10:10 AM | Link to this

Why does BC & JS refuse to give Orr a shot a leadoff?! He’s only the fastest guy on the team. Could be a seriously cheap solution to the leadoff/2nd base situation & would allow a trade of Giles for pitching help. I realize he’s a utility guy but every guy in the majors wants a shot for everyday playing time.Give Orr a chance to show what he can do everyday. Does anyone agree?

By Matt

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

Listen to me John Schurholtz. DO NOT TRADE LAROCHE. Yes, he had one defensive lapse last season, but that was it! He’s probably the second coming of Fred McGriff. Trading him would be trading possibly the best defensive 1st baseman of this generation. If you’re going to trade someone, trade Giles to the West Coast. And if you’re going to do it, as the old saying goes, S*&^ or get off the pot!

By Bham Al

December 5, 2006 10:22 AM | Link to this

Why does BC & JS refuse to give Orr a shot a leadoff?! He’s only the fastest guy on the team. Could be a seriously cheap solution to the leadoff/2nd base situation & would allow a trade of Giles for pitching help. I realize he’s a utility guy but every guy in the majors wants a shot for everyday playing time.Give Orr a chance to show what he can do everyday. Does anyone agree?

By Maurice

December 5, 2006 10:29 AM | Link to this

sure and the 40 runs a year that Andruw Jones saves will be loses for the Braves. I think getting rid of Laroche will help the Braves keep Andruw next year. It’s not a good idea because you want Laroche batting behind Andruw. I say sell the team to Arthur Blank and the cable company back to Turner and put more money in this thing. If the Braves were smart they would have given Glavine a contract in spite of their self imposed salary cap, because they would have gotten the money back in higher ticket sales next year. Don’t blow your offense because you couldn’t shore up your pitching and defense.

By MainStreet

December 5, 2006 10:29 AM | Link to this

Has it occured to anyone that the problem is with the owner of the braves. They are in business to make money and don’t give a rip about the Braves or Atlanta, so they do NOT prioritize the needs of the Braves or the fans. TRADE THE OWNER. Trading Giles is bad idea, but LaRoche is an admitted slacker! Maybe not all the time, but he certainly goes to sleep while playing. “TRADE THE OWNER”

By Nathan (The guy who wants Chop Chick's JOB)

December 5, 2006 10:32 AM | Link to this

Bham Al

It doesn’t matter how fast Orr is, HE CAN’T HIT consistantly enought to use that speed.

How’s the old saying go?…..Oh yeah. YOU CAN’T STEAL 1B!!!

By Lowcountry Bulldawg

December 5, 2006 10:38 AM | Link to this

Laroche for Figgins

Do it NOW! Figgins is one of the top 5 leadoff men in baseball and the most versitle player as well. Santana a arm this club needs for 5 years. And he will be affordable.

Giles for Linebrink— If you make the move for Figgins and Santana this deal goes as well. Only if you get those to guys.

Great moves by JS.

By Fire John Schuerholz

December 5, 2006 10:39 AM | Link to this

What kind of bull** is this? Why would you trade a power-hitting, Gold Glove-caliber 1st baseman for some utility man who can only hit .260? This is a no-brainer; KEEP ADAM!!!

By Sara

December 5, 2006 10:57 AM | Link to this

This is NUTS! Trading LaRoche? LaRoche is an awesome defender, he had 90rbis and 30+ homeruns! If Andruw leaves next year, what do we have left? Scott Thorman? Good Grief!!! If Schuerholz trades him, he should definitely be fired (baring a trade that is just completely overwhelming like Manny).

By Daniel

December 5, 2006 11:00 AM | Link to this

According to the Baltimore newspapers, there is serious talk of a possible trade of Brian Roberts and Hayden Penn for Marcus Giles and Adam Laroche. Brian Roberts had an off year last season while recovering from a dislocated elbow, and is a proven leadoff man of more than Juan Pierre caliber. Hayden Penn is one of the bright young arms of the organization being only 22, and having a few, successful/and unsuccessful stints at the pro level. What is Atlanta’s opinion on this deal?

By stynes

December 5, 2006 11:11 AM | Link to this

I just can’t see the Braves trading LaRoche. I like Giles and LaRoche both but I can understand why Giles leaves Atlanta this offseason. He’s one of the better second basemen in the league and plays the game the way it should be played. He’s a fan favorite and a good guy. When you look at his value (production vs. cost) compared to that of LaRoche, it’s no where close, though. Also, the Braves system is deep on middle infielders. Someone isn’t as ready to step in at 1st. And you can’t beat LaRoche’s value (again, production vs. cost).

Honest question - who’s a better value in the NL than Adam LaRoche? I know a lot of people don’t like him because of the play at first last year but that’s not really an argument. In spite of that play he’s still one of the top defensive first basemen and his .285/32/90 probably can’t be matched at his salary at any position. He’s gonna make what, $2mil next year? He’s young (just turned 27) and turned out these numbers in his first year hitting regularly against left handers. Those numbers are only going to improve.

Compare that to, say, Gary Matthews, Jr. He’s making $10 mil for .313/19/79 in a career year. He’s defense can’t touch that of LaRoche and he’s 32, never having hit better than .276/17/55 before last year.

Without question, LaRoche is one of the best bargins in all of baseball. He finished 2006 with these numbers in the NL: 37th in BA, 24th in RBIs, 13th in HRs, 10th in OPS, and 7th in SLG. Are you kidding me? We’d have to get some serious, serious studs back to even think about trading him and his probably $2mil salary.

By mtgalisa

December 5, 2006 11:13 AM | Link to this

laroche…without question should be traded

By Carroll

December 5, 2006 11:18 AM | Link to this

DOB: you know I am not a LaRoche fan, but these deal proposals seem beyond ludicrous to me. I just don’t understand why JS says all this stuff about wanting to improve our pitching, but then he goes and explores deals where we wouldn’t be getting quality arms in return. He claims not to be that concerned about leadoff hitter, but he’s actually considering trading two of our best young players for a guy (Figgins) who’s NOT that great of a leadoff man despite his speed; or Roberts who’s older than Giles and stays hurt half the time. What gives?! We need pitching! That should be the ONLY type of trade that we explore.

By summerteeth

December 5, 2006 11:27 AM | Link to this

Don buleed da hype

By William

December 5, 2006 11:44 AM | Link to this

Chipper and Andrew are institutions in Atlanta. Don’t trade either. Let them finish out their career here. I support a trade for Giles, he’s a good player but we need someone with speed and a better bat at the top of the line-up. Braves should have made a serious run at Glavine. He’s more consistent than what we have in the starting line-up.

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By sp

December 5, 2006 11:47 AM | Link to this

Poor John Schuerholz!! Gone shopping without money. Good luck! Go Braves.

By ILL-logical

December 5, 2006 11:48 AM | Link to this

JS uses the “budget” as his strawman: every decision that doesn’t work is the “budget’s” fault. Has anyone seen the “budget”; the AJC enables the charade by referencing it without ever documenting it.

JS WAS a good GM in the past but clearly no more.

By Jim

December 5, 2006 11:49 AM | Link to this

I notice another Jim has posted that we fire J. S. Thanks for 15 years of success and what have you done for me lately? I do not share that opinion!

If the Braves are considering trading LaRoche, it only means that they think he overachieved last year and will not likely put up thyose numbers again and/or that Thorman has the better potential. Thorman HAS DONE ALL HE NEEDS TO IN THE MINORS. He is either the long term answer at 1b (not LF) or he is not and should be traded. If LaRoche is traded, it means that the Braves prefer Thorman long term and want to keep him. Otherwise, it is he that should/would be traded instead.

By HUCK FROM MARIETTA

December 5, 2006 11:57 AM | Link to this

get rid of giles since $5MM is too much for him…

keep laroche b/c he’s only $420K and he gave us .285,32HR,90RBI!

By Tim

December 5, 2006 12:07 PM | Link to this

Why would you want to get rid of LaRoche—that is so stuid. JS—you need to go. We finally have a first baseman that can hit and play first base and what does JS want to do—trade hi. JS you are an idiot.

By Powder Springs Player

December 5, 2006 12:12 PM | Link to this

Trade Davies and Ramirez to Tampa for Carl Crawford. Crawford is the guy the Braves need.

By bryan

December 5, 2006 12:18 PM | Link to this

Trade giles for bullpen help and trade andruw, theres not way we pay him 20+million a year hes not worth that

By denny

December 5, 2006 12:31 PM | Link to this

From Baltimore, Roberts 2b is too valuable to lose; Penn is top pitching prospect but expendable because unproven. We need a power hitting outfielder and 4th starter even more than lst b. If Braves add Hudson, trade would work for O’s.

Sorry, Roberts/Penn for LaRoche/Giles—does not seem to fit primary need for either club.

By ChampDawg

December 5, 2006 12:39 PM | Link to this

I’d vote to get rid of Giles period. If you have to shop Giles and LaRoche together, dang sure better get something good in exchange. I like LaRoche.

By Amit

December 5, 2006 12:42 PM | Link to this

I think we should keep Laroche, hes going to hit next year and play the defense that helps you win. I also think we should trade giles for Scott Linebrink and maybe try to get another prospect out of the Padres. Keep Hudson..i think he’ll bounce back to have a slightly better season than last year and the Braves are only paying him 6 million, which is a steal compared to what the market is looking like this offseason. I would love to keep Andruw in ATL for next season but if JS can work out a really good trade and would bring in someone like CoCo Crisp and a couple of elite relievers…doesnt seem to likely but if a trade thats big for the braves then i say go for it. The Braves were 2nd in the NL in Runs Scored and 1st in Homers, so i think with a proven leadoff man who can play the outfield with laroche, frenchy and McCann getting better, we can make up for some of the production from Andruw. A Rotation of Smoltz, Hudson, Hampton, James and maybe Davies if he proves himself in Spring Training seems like a safe rotation. I think if JS made a trade involving Horacio Ramirez and or Kyle Davies, we could try to get another decent starter. A lineup of Crisp, Renteria, Chipper, McCann, Frenchy, Laroche, maybe matt diaz and martin prado, i think we could be safe. Pitching wins and with this braves offense we could do some damage. A bullpen like Macay Mc.bride, blaine boyer if he can prove healthy, Linebrink, Villareal, Wickman and hopefully Joey Devine can prove some worth, i think the bullpen can come together. Because after Wickman joined the braves midway last year, he provided that veteran presence in the bullpen and the the braves bullpen pitched alot better in the 2nd half. Hope JS can get something done in the next dew days, lets hope! BUT i really do think we need to have a leadoff man who can steal 30-40 bases and get himself into scoring position for the big guys. What do you guys think?? Do i have somewhat of a point?

By Lowcountry Bulldawg

December 5, 2006 01:10 PM | Link to this

Chone Figgins Stats:

Season Stats SPLIT G AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI SB BA OBP SLG Season 155 604 93 161 23 8 9 62 52 .267 .336 .376

Ervin Santana Season Stats SPLIT G IP H R HR BB SO W L Sv P/GS WHIP BAA ERA Season 33 204.0 181 106 21 70 141 16 8 0 97.7 1.23 .241 4.28

If you can get a 28 year old leadoff man and a 24 year old potential ace then you make the trade of Laroche.

By Wesley

December 5, 2006 01:16 PM | Link to this

Trade Chip, Giles, and Andrew.

nuff said

By Matt

December 5, 2006 01:28 PM | Link to this

I find it truely is disheartening how much of a business baseball has become since the strike of ‘94. I also find it sad that the NY media firm, Time Warner, has decided to put no funds into helping keep the Braves a winning team. Time Warner, of NY, Braves, of the NL East…same as the Mets…I smell conspiracy. While I would hate to lose Giles because he is a scrappy, never give up player, who a majority of the time is the only one of the Braves you can tell gives a damn. I understand that this is a business and sometimes you have to give up a lot to fix a problem. And I have to admit up until the All Star break last year I would have been all for trading LaRoche but now that he finally showed his full potential I have a hard time parting with him too. But as business goes, so do players. I see this working this way: Giles and LaRoche to the Angels for Figgins and Santana (nothing less). We get a versitile, meaning he can play anywhere, potential leadoff hitter plus one of the rising star pitchers. So you are saying no now we don’t have a first baseman. Well we either use Scott Thorman or follow me…I know the Mariners are looking for a proven starting pitcher and are trying to move Richie Sexson. So we send them Tim Hudson and in return get an All-Star quality power hitter and first baseman. And I am sure our homeboy, John can get the Mariners to pick up a good portion of his salary. I mean come on its his specialty i.e. Hampton, Hudson, Renteria. I just don’t like the idea of Giles to the Padres for Linebrink, we give up too much. And I don’t see LaRoche going to the Pirates without at least getting DeMaso Marte, Zach Duke or Jack Wilson in return. I know its sad to see key players go but I think parting with Giles, Huson and LaRoche this year will help when we have to say good bye to Andruw next year.

By Luv 2 Hate Me

December 5, 2006 01:30 PM | Link to this

I’m disliking the Braves by the minute. I can’t believe they are considering a trade that involves Laroche. They traded Wilson B for pitching and weren’t able to resign Baez. A waist of a trade. They weren’t able to sign Glavin and now they are thinking about trading Adam. I use to have love for this team. Now I’m reallly starting the question JS’s decision making. Maybe it’s time for a younger GM like Boston.

By Carroll

December 5, 2006 01:46 PM | Link to this

Lowcountry Bulldawg: yes that trade would be outstanding (if we got Santana in return) HOWEVER, the rumor specifically states that the Halos WON’T part with him or Shields. Frankly, outside of those two and Ardenhart (sp?), I don’t really want anyone else on their team. If we COULD get one of those guys and Figgins was a throw-in, that would be fine, but he alone should not be the primary component of ANY trade!

By Carroll

December 5, 2006 01:47 PM | Link to this

DOB: I know the Pirates have been desperately coveting LaROche but have been unwilling to part wiht pitching. What if we packaged up Roach and Salty for the likes of Zach Duke? I hate to part with Salty, but I would definitely be willing to do so in order to get the John Smoltz of the future.

By Mike

December 5, 2006 02:07 PM | Link to this

I think JS forgot that Mike Hampton will be returning next year. Its been stated that he might be even stronger/better than in previous years after his “Tommy John” surgery (not a big surprise actually, as it has been documented that the arm is stronger and allows for more control and higher pitch speeds after the process). Trade Hudson for anything of value. The rotation would be Smoltz, Hampton, James, Ramirez, and Davies (three lefties???). Keep Laroche (as much as I dislike him). Giles could go either way with the amount of middle infield talent hyped-up in double A and triple A. They would still have to get a fill-in 2B for a year and would be set after that.

By Seminole with bag over head!

December 5, 2006 02:11 PM | Link to this

Andruw should be on the trade block. I don’t want to see it, but there is no way we can afford to re-up his contract so let’s get something for his amazing talent. As far as Giles and Laroche: Giles has been the motor for this team for the past few seasons, he is the personality. When he is on, the team is on. BUt he is replacable, McCann will fill that role. LaRoche is unproven, and will likely be another former brave turned consistant all-star. But face it, we have serious needs and serious young talent and need to take advantage of it all! Hudson could be traded if the value is right and we get another started, that might allow us to keep andruw…

By Daybed Wagmoe

December 5, 2006 02:37 PM | Link to this

i’m a big laroche fan. i think he plays excellent defense, and he does have a knack for big hits (though not to the extent that francouer does). in two or three of the games i attended last year, he hit a home run in late innings to either tie the game or put us ahead.

i hope that we keep him because he’s a great hitter and great defensive 1B.

By Eric

December 5, 2006 02:48 PM | Link to this

Who Cares!! We’ve just become the farm team for the contenders in the NL. Trade them all and cut the payroll to $8M.

By gojackets

December 5, 2006 02:49 PM | Link to this

Thorman’s a natural 1st bascman and is (or will be)a better clutch hitter than LaRoche, who,like Andruw, feasts off crummy pitchers and takes that big swing to make outs against top pitchers.

By Larry

December 5, 2006 03:48 PM | Link to this

Does anybody really give a crap?

I wish they would get rid of the whole Brave team and move the AAA players up, cut ticket prices and sell beer for a buck! I’m so over baseball and the overpaid millionaires that play the game!!

By Ralph

December 5, 2006 04:07 PM | Link to this

The Braves organization is one for the book. First the Braves will never be the same due the financial inconsistency. Giles and LaRoche are sporadic, both are always hurt another one is Chipper. There should be a sign in front of the Braves club house which should have the following words- “DRIVE SLOW —-HOSPITAL ZONE”. So if you trade them it won’t really matter, and maybe a blessing for them. The Braves front office will not trade for a first class player, due to the fact that must of their budget is tie up in 6 player and not until they get rid of some of their dead wood and don’t have very much to depend on. That’s what happens to teams that sign a player on a multi-multi year contract. The Braves will never be the same until the front office gets serious about the game and a new owner who willing to put big money the team.

By Mike

December 5, 2006 04:10 PM | Link to this

The Braves are rapidly becoming the Atlanta Hawks of the next decade.

Why are they trading young talent (read: Wilson Betemit) and hanging on to and or pursuing players in their twilight (read: C. Jones, J. Smoltz, T. Glavine (almost)))?

I can live with a Giles deal. I’m hoping LaRoche is just speculation. The guy’s a future batting title winner.

By Sam

December 5, 2006 04:27 PM | Link to this

Mike, what you say the Braves are doing is the exact opposite of the Hawks. Off-topic maybe, but the Hawks have stockpiled a bunch of good young players, they haven’t squandered on “twilight” guys.

And people clamoring to trade for Carl Crawford: get real. The guy hits 100 points worse when he bats leadoff, he’s not the answer. That “clown” (as someone referred to him) Chone Figgins is a better leadoff hitter than Crawford, and he fills a need at second if Giles is traded like he should be. We have plenty of good prospects in our system without trading Andruw for more, so let’s get the Giles and (maybe) Laroche deals done and quit whining. The Braves will be fine.

By jack

December 5, 2006 04:29 PM | Link to this

You are not gonna believe what I just read on Yahoo Sports MLB…. WE ARE TALKING TO THE ORIOLES TRYING TO TRADE MARCUS AND ADAM FOR BRIAN ROBERTS, A LEADOFF GUY THAT IS NOT TOO BAD, AND A PITCHING PROSPECT WITH 0-4 15.00 ERA. HAVE THE GODS SIMPLY LOST THEIR MINDS? HAVE WE BECOME SO DESPERATE FOR SOME TRADE NEWS THAT WE HAVE GONE NUTS?

By Jeffrey

December 5, 2006 04:39 PM | Link to this

Well I think Schuerholz is content with adding Tanyon Sturtze. He is undoubtedly the missing piece to something. We may not have him for a couple of months but when he is ready, we will soar. We will probably find a couple of other relievers on the junk pile until then.

It is sad that the Braves have sunk to this level.

By alan from Atlanta GA.

December 5, 2006 05:04 PM | Link to this

So we now have Tanyon Sturtze, probably in May if his surgery was succesful. We also have Willie Aybar as backup in the Betimit role. What was wrong with Betimit. we got Baez who was unhappy and is gone and we are back where we started. Should have kept Betimit. Back to Giles, we probably could survive without him. I don’t think he’s worth $5 mil. LaRoche is becoming a better player. Now is the time to trade him before he develops. We probably couldn’t afford him in a few years. It seems the Braves budget is almost on a par with the Marlins. My God! How this team has sunk.

By Haywood Jablome

December 5, 2006 05:45 PM | Link to this

I’m having a hard time figuring out the prospective Baltimore trade…Giles and LaRoche for Roberts and Hayden Penn? If we’re stacked with middle infielders, and JS says he’s not that concerned about filling the lead-off position, why are we looking at Brian Roberts, whose salary is in the neighborhood of Giles…secondly, we already have a young, right-hander with control problems who got clubbed last year when he came off the DL, his name is Kyle Davies, so why add another headache? Just wondering.

By amelia

December 5, 2006 07:15 PM | Link to this

as long as Francoeur isnt traded then its all good.

By Righton

December 5, 2006 07:17 PM | Link to this

Just heard the D-Rays are also interested in LaRoche. Maybe Crawford would come to Braves in return. Man I hope JS comes up with a couple of go deals.

By stew

December 5, 2006 07:39 PM | Link to this

Can Figgins cut it at second base defensively? I think Yates and McBride are capable setup pitchers. We shouldn’t want get rid of Giles, LaRoche, and Andruw (3 players we developed). We should get rid of Time Warner. That’s the solution to our problem. No matter who we acquire by trade, we have to give up talent. The teams that sign free agents don’t give up anything. It’s a no brainer. Until we level the playing field financially, it will be hard to compete on the diamond. Heck, Andruw wants to stay. How about Andruw stays and the scumbags at Time Warner go? We haven’t signed a free agent of significance for how long? How long do we have to put up with these scumcoaches?

By Leslie

December 6, 2006 11:14 AM | Link to this

GET JOE TORRIE - HE WINS THE LAST GAMES OF THE SEASON

GET RID OF THE REASON THE BRAVES CAN’T AND WANT WIN THE LAST GAMES OF THE SEASON……BOBBY DABOOB COX……

By Joe

December 6, 2006 11:42 AM | Link to this

Help fix two teams with one trade. Trade Marcus Giles and Andruw Jones to the Red Sox for Manny Ramirez, Coco Crisp, Jonathon Pappelbon and another pitching prospect. Manny may be older, slower and more tempermental than Andruw. However he is signed through the end of next year and his 2 option years are far more affordable and Schuerholz will not pay Andruw his market value.

By Randy

December 6, 2006 11:13 PM | Link to this

I believe that when you have seven players taking up 80% of your payroll, it is definitely time for an overhaul. Why not trade Adam Laroche while his value is high instead of being bogged down next year by the sharp pay hike he’ll surely get through arbitration? The Braves have first base prospects up the wazoo like Scott Thorman who could put up numbers similar to Adam’s, not to mention that they have another potential All-Star in the making down in the minors named Kala Kaaihue who hit .281 with 28 homers and drove in 80 RBIs in 416 at bats this past season between the Rome Braves and the Myrtle Beach Pelicans.

Marcus Giles could be replaced by Martin Prado, but I think Schuerholz will probably upgrade this position by trading the players with the big price tags attached to them like Andruw Jones,Tim Hudson or Chipper Jones for another talented and more affordable second baseman.

As far as the bullpen is concerned, I don’t think Schuerholz needs as much help in this area as everyone seems to think. The acquisition of Bob Wickman’s experience and his confidence solidified what had been a very shaky bullpen up to that point.

I see alot of potential, though, if all our players can stay healthy. There are a total of about five major if’s that if overcome or undertaken, the Braves could land themselves back atop their Division leading perch in the NL East. If #1, Chris Reitsma comes back from his surgery and regains his form that he had in 2005. If #2, the Braves get a healthy Joey Devine that shows us the same form he had at the end of last year. If #3, Tanyon Sturtze actually strengthens the pen as he’s been billed to do by the Braves press. If #4, the Braves get similar results from the rest of the pen like Villareal,Yates,Paronto, and McBride like we got at the end of last year. Lastly,If #5, the Braves can develop future set-up man and potential Wickman heir apparent Zach Schreiber.

I believe that the Braves have a good foundation upon which to rebuild their new and improved bullpen.Good luck Mr. Schuerholz.