ajcsportstalk

By Jonathan Bouldin

January 17, 2007 05:00 PM | Link to this

I hope like hell we got more than Gonzalez

By mike p.

January 17, 2007 05:05 PM | Link to this

UNBELEIVEABLE!!! another “business” decision. if the owners don”t want a good team in atlanta just go ahead and sell the whole organization and move a minor-league here.apparently we don’t deserve a good team every year.welcome to the bush leagues - again!!

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 05:05 PM | Link to this

FINALLY MY WORDS COME TRUE. WE NEEDED PITCHING!!!!!! WHO COULD BE THE 2ND PLAYER

By Mike B.

January 17, 2007 05:06 PM | Link to this

OK, fine…but I hope there’s a bat in there somewhere. Who’s playing first now?

By Brian Waters

January 17, 2007 05:07 PM | Link to this

who is the other player, and why haven’t they come out and said it. Seems strange to me.

By fnreitsmas

January 17, 2007 05:08 PM | Link to this

i cannot believe this

By Kenny

January 17, 2007 05:08 PM | Link to this

Are you kidding me? One of our BEST hitters is gone.

JS needs to be traded. Bobby Cox can go with him too.

Next year Andruw is gone. I am not going to wait. I am done with Braves. 14 years gone to waste, thanks JS, you fricking idiot.

By parks

January 17, 2007 05:08 PM | Link to this

not sure about this. After next year when Andruw leaves, ahere is the power going to come from?

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 05:08 PM | Link to this

YYYYYYYYYYYYYes! we are set on bullpen. can we somehow get rocco rom tb???

By brad

January 17, 2007 05:08 PM | Link to this

I don’t know how we’re going to replace that kind of power, and looking a year down the road without andruw, it seems even more puzzling. Looks as thought JS is building for one last World Series run before andruw goes elsewhere and the fallout begins. I’m excited about our bullpen, but geez, we gotta get some power from the power corner. Remember how bad the Braves were playing first base by committee a couple years ago?

By Russell Chester

January 17, 2007 05:09 PM | Link to this

This is good trade we have to get some kind of a bullpen if were are going to do anything this year. However, who is going to play first base? Laroche was allright but he was too inconsistent. He struck out too much and made some boneheaded plays at first.

By braves fan

January 17, 2007 05:09 PM | Link to this

sounds like we got ripped off

By futurebravesgm2413

January 17, 2007 05:10 PM | Link to this

Depends on who the 2nd player is in the deal. If Johnson leads off and does as well in the past and Thorman steps up looks like we are okay.

What happens in leftfield now if Thorman is playing first? Please no Langerhans. God forbid if Johnson is in LF and prado at 2b. Prado is not a major league 2b.

Are we going to make a push for Baldelli then?

By KebMo

January 17, 2007 05:10 PM | Link to this

3.8 million to most teams for a his power numbers is a major bargain. To the Braves…….we go over budget. This one really sucks

By Chris

January 17, 2007 05:10 PM | Link to this

This was nothing more than another salary dump. I was not a huge Laroche fan, however it is obvious what the motivation for this move was. The Braves are done and the currnet managment seems content to trot out a 2nd tier product, with no hope of making the playoffs.

By BlueStreak

January 17, 2007 05:10 PM | Link to this

Only if we got Duffy or one of the starters…not Torres or Castillo. Maybe with the pressure to get him in, they finally caved on Duffy.

By Steve

January 17, 2007 05:11 PM | Link to this

I think this is a great deal for our Braves. It will help our bullpen tremendously. He was 24 of 24 in saves so he’ll have stablize our pen and we can finally win a world series.

Or maybe we just need to bring back Fransisco Caberra.

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 05:11 PM | Link to this

DOB, YOU KNOW IVE BEEN SCREAMING for a trade to get pitching!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By ObiWanKobe

January 17, 2007 05:11 PM | Link to this

geez, our right side is going to suck both at the plate and in the field. At least Frenchy will get to make a heck of a lot more crazy throws now we have a defensive liability at first.

By Brian Waters

January 17, 2007 05:11 PM | Link to this

They will have the best bullpen in the majors! Good job JS. Salty has been tearing it up in the minors playing first base. I look for him in 2008.

By Steve

January 17, 2007 05:12 PM | Link to this

Sure we have one of the best bullpens around and that is great but will we be able to score any runs with 30 plus homeruns out of the lineup now? The purpose of a good bullpens is to hold leads, it will not matter if we are down 2-1 and 1-0 all the time. I hope we have someone to play first that can put up good power numbers

By Jack

January 17, 2007 05:13 PM | Link to this

Looks like Braves management is taking lessons from the Falcons. Looks like we are setting ourselves up for another 2006 season — if it is that good! We just can’t stick to winning can we???

By ChopTalk

January 17, 2007 05:13 PM | Link to this

We will miss him! If there isn’t more in the deal we got jipted and this deal will suck! Who is going to 1B now? The right side is several weak…..and after waiting for LaRoche to come around.

By drew

January 17, 2007 05:14 PM | Link to this

Our bullpen will be lights out. We just turned it into a 6 inning game.

By jm

January 17, 2007 05:14 PM | Link to this

nothing like trading a hitter entering his prime for a power pitcher with a suspect elbow.

By tim

January 17, 2007 05:14 PM | Link to this

Hey, when you get a chance to get a reliever that was 3-4 last year for a left handed power hitter that finished seventh in slugging perc., you have to take that deal!

Prediction: Braves find their stride in September and Gonzales leads them to a 75 win season. Get your tickets now.

By Bravosfan

January 17, 2007 05:14 PM | Link to this

If you can’t afford 3.8 million a year you should not be a baseball team!

By Mark

January 17, 2007 05:15 PM | Link to this

Stupid. There goes an All-Star. All around great player. Bye. Without Soriano I’d say good, but we have Wickman, and Soriano now. We didn’t need Gonzalez that bad.

By Tom Engel

January 17, 2007 05:15 PM | Link to this

We?….None of you are on the team. The problem has always been the bullpen, and now that is finally being addressed. Unfortunately, you have to give up some players to do so.

By Taylor

January 17, 2007 05:16 PM | Link to this

We now have the best bullpen in the bigs. No doubt.

By Rogers

January 17, 2007 05:16 PM | Link to this

So, Thorman is gonna play first, eh? Can the Braves afford to see if he can play a full year in the majors?

So now, the Braves have addressed their bullpen problems by having three closers. Is this so we have a closer available when one of them burns out in June?

It’ll be interesting to see who the “player to be name later” is.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 17, 2007 05:16 PM | Link to this

It’s good to shore up the pitching staff. But Scott Thorman better be able to come in and deliver a .270 average and 20 HRs from the first base position, or else this trade won’t look too good this year.

By Fulton

January 17, 2007 05:16 PM | Link to this

Won’t matter until they get rid of ‘regular season’ Bobby. He’s the Marty Schottenheimer of baseball..HAHAHA!!

By futurebravesgm2413

January 17, 2007 05:16 PM | Link to this

Looks like this move had some financially driven means to it. Screw AOL/TW for screwing the Braves

By Braves Fan

January 17, 2007 05:17 PM | Link to this

LaRoche had one good half of a season in three years and is seen as a platoon guy by most teams in MLB. Scott Thorman (a first round draft pick) can hit and play first. Mike Gonzalez is going to be the next Mariano Rivera. GREAT MOVE!!!

By David in Georgia

January 17, 2007 05:17 PM | Link to this

yet another sucky deal from the most overrated GM in the history of organized baseball…this stinks and I’m not even a big fan of LaRoche…you do not keep trading away young - and relatively cheap - position players for bullpen guys…esp. bullpen guys who may well have arm problems…and keep winning baseball games…the march downward and backward to the 1970s Braves continues apace…

By Wigwammy

January 17, 2007 05:17 PM | Link to this

Hate to loose LaRoche, but Gonzalez was a dominant closer last year for Pittsburgh. This is a win-win for both teams.

By Rich

January 17, 2007 05:17 PM | Link to this

Never heard of him.

By Mike McCoy

January 17, 2007 05:19 PM | Link to this

Are you kidding me? You can pick up a decent reliever off the scrap heap or in Double A and we give up a guy who was in the top 10 in OPS last year??? 30+ HR and 90+ RBI at age 27 for a guy who will pitch in the 7th and 8th innings??? Unless JS has something else up his sleeve or the Pirates are including McCutchen, this is a travesty.

By Bravesman

January 17, 2007 05:19 PM | Link to this

All Ya’ll who are supporting this trade do realize that you actually have to score runs to win games. Now we will just loose 2 to 1 instead of 4 to 1.

By BUSHWACKER

January 17, 2007 05:19 PM | Link to this

Who is going to replace his 90+ rbi’s, second on the team the last 2 years?

By Dave

January 17, 2007 05:19 PM | Link to this

You people are not very baseball savy….as much as I love Laroche the bullpen cost the Braves a shot at the postseason more than the offense kept them in it. The Braves are going back to there roots and will win with pitching. Even if Thorman gives a 3rd of what Laroche did then that with the bullpen will be a huge gain. The defense will take a hit, but other than that I see this as a good move. I recall last year everyone screaming because JS and BC didn’t do enough to improve the bullpen and now I’m hearing we gave up too much. So Funny!

By eric goldfine

January 17, 2007 05:21 PM | Link to this

The fact that they traded our second most offensively productive player is ridiculous. After next year Andruw will either leave or have a ridiculously high salary. Laroche’s offer was very low compared to most players with his offensive stats. Mike Gonzalez better be worth more than we bargained for.

By Gil Gibson

January 17, 2007 05:21 PM | Link to this

I saw the Braves first game in Fulton County Stadium. I saw Aaron hit his 715th. But I have seen my last Braves game until they get owners and a GM who wants to win.

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 05:21 PM | Link to this

WHY DO YOU GUYS SOUND SPLIT ON THIS TRADE???????????? WE NOW HAVE PITCHING LIKE THE YEARS BEFORE. WE STILL HAVE PLENTY OF HITTING. WE COULD GET ROCCO BALDELLI STILL. LOOK AT RUMORS ON CNNSI TODAY. WE NEEDED THIS. PITCHING NEVER HURTS SINCE PHILLYS AND METS KNOW HOW TO HIT.. CALM DOWN

By The Grinch

January 17, 2007 05:22 PM | Link to this

Thorman will be better than y’all think. Depending on the second player, I like this deal.

By BirdBrain

January 17, 2007 05:22 PM | Link to this

Excellent trade for the braves. We now have the 7th,8th and 9th innings sewed up.This is the way baseball is played now and we finally have the tools to get it done. Thorman will be a good replacement and we will also get a future good leadoff man in duffy.

By STEVIE D

January 17, 2007 05:23 PM | Link to this

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

By Pirate fan

January 17, 2007 05:23 PM | Link to this

Love this trade for the Pirates, but only if they didn’t sacrifice Duffy. That would be too much. Braves are getting potential lights out closer who will pitch out of incredible jams. Bucs have to have LH bopper to protect Bay. Believe it or not, this trade could be huge win-win for both.Ironic, that my Pirates could afford LaRoche, but Braves feel he isn’t worth it!! Thank You JS!!!

By Dave

January 17, 2007 05:23 PM | Link to this

Those of you saying salary dump are uninformed. Mike G signed a 2.8 mil (approx) deal and that with the 2nd player making even league min is close to what Laroche would have likely made, so this was not a salary dump. God get informed people before you comment.

By elliott

January 17, 2007 05:24 PM | Link to this

i think it sucks——just one more reason im getting tired of watching the braves

By TheShooty

January 17, 2007 05:24 PM | Link to this

Who are the Braves? Last time I checked, the only two baseball teams that matter are the Yellow Jackets and Bulldogs, both of which went to the college baseball world series. Let’s look at it this way, you can either pay $45 for a team that is set up to lose, get ripped off by the ball field, and forget the players names because they only stay one or two seasons, or you can see the $3-$5 dollar college game with good kids, aluminium bat offense, and a family friendly atmosphere.

The days of the Braves are OVER. Supporting them now just gives them more incentive to not even care anymore about the fans. Go see Georgia State or Southern play. Go see Young Harris or Kennesaw play. And most of all, support Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta by seeing the UGA Vs. GT game. It will be the only game all year at Turner Dome worth seeing!

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 05:24 PM | Link to this

your right dave. GREAT TRADE

By Todd

January 17, 2007 05:24 PM | Link to this

As a Pirate fan - I’m excited about this deal…Glad to get LaRoche - a left handed first baseman with some power. That’s something the Pirates haven’t had in a long time. Also glad to get awat from Mike Gonzalez. He was too much like Mike Williams. His numbers and stats look good, but if you watched him play for a full season, you wouldn’t have a full head of hair anymore. He is the type that has to load the bases in the bottom of the 9th with a 1 run lead before he can get a save. He will drive you crazy. The elbow problems don’t really make me any more confident in him.

Now I just want to see who the other player was. I’m hoping it was Castillo and not Duffy.

By eaglefan06

January 17, 2007 05:26 PM | Link to this

Ok, can we get to the eighth inning? Well, if we can this year and be up, its gonna be hard to beat us. we just have to hope that francoeur can take more walks and mccann can continue to hit well as well as chipper staying healthy. well, then we’ll be ok. still, its gonna be hard to score on that bullpen in the eighth and ninth innings. THREE closers in ONE bullpen. hmm. GO BRAVES, back to the old days of great pitching!

By bravesfansince1966

January 17, 2007 05:26 PM | Link to this

Amen Dave!…. We can get power or production from from first FAR EASIER than we can finf GREAT pitching…THIS WAS A GOOD MOVE! You idiots will find out and I hope I don’t see you at the ballpark this year. I prefer to watch the game with folks that know baseball!

By futurebravesgm2413

January 17, 2007 05:26 PM | Link to this

People are overlooking how this affects left field

By Dave

January 17, 2007 05:29 PM | Link to this

And another thing. Jeff F had a really down year by everyone’s standards so if he improves only a little and McCann continues to progress (he’ll likely gain more power as he continues to mature…he’s only 22!) then that will offset some of Laroche’s numbers. Also, people forget how good Kelley Johnson is. He is a former top prospect who BC says has as good an eye as anyone. Don’t underestimate him.

By josh kunis

January 17, 2007 05:30 PM | Link to this

the braves traded the a first baseman with better numbers than carlos delgado (check the stats) at a bargain price for a middle reliever. if js cant run a team w/our budget then he needs to leave. he has not made one good move since getting fred mcgriff. betemit, furcal, now laroche? what a joke.

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 05:30 PM | Link to this

GRRRRRREAT TRADE , 2ND PLAYER IS IMPORTANT. PROBABLY A QUICK HITTER

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 05:30 PM | Link to this

YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS

By Don

January 17, 2007 05:30 PM | Link to this

Is Salty going to be fast-tracked to first?

By die hard braves fan

January 17, 2007 05:31 PM | Link to this

what a dumb bonehead move! BRING TED TURNER BACK!

I mean ADAM WAS WORTH AN ALL STAR.

U DONT Trade an allstar for unproven talent.

UNDISCLOSED PLAYER = A NOBODY

Now if this pitcher the next WILD THING, I will eat my words!

Chipper should have gotten trade.

How u gonna trade the young guys for older guys?

Yall some cheapskates!

By Orlando Cepeda

January 17, 2007 05:32 PM | Link to this

I see some reports that Gonzalez is in REHAB and just now throwing long-toss. Mike Gonzalez has Rivera-like potential…24 saves in 24 opps is excellent. But is M.Gonzo healthy? Is Chris Duffy the player to be named later? Hate to see LaRoche go and his bat will be hard to replace (Scott Thorman?) but M.Gonzo can take Wickman’s job now or later. The Pirate’s fans are crying about the long porch in PNC…not a prob for the bombs launched by Rochie. Sure hope Duffy or another young pitcher is the other player. That’d be cooooool.

By bellfree

January 17, 2007 05:33 PM | Link to this

By Mike McCoy

Are you kidding me? You can pick up a decent reliever off the scrap heap or in Double A

Obviously you don’t know much about baseball. Who would the Braves pick up off the scrap heap or in Double A? Last year the bullpen cost the Braves too many games. Gonzalez was one of the top closers in the game last year. I agree we will miss Laroche’s bat, but you have to give up players to get help.

By joe t

January 17, 2007 05:33 PM | Link to this

Everybody needs to chill out here!!!!Gonzalez is a stud…almost unhittable! if he stays healthy the Braves will possess one of the most lethal bullpens in the game….All JS and Cox are doing is trying to shorten the game to 7 innings and then lights out. Trust me….Great move by the Braves.

By Aaron Trauger

January 17, 2007 05:33 PM | Link to this

We traded a player who will play 150 games for a player who will play in maybe 75. Opponents will not want to be behind after the 7th. But, can we score enough to be ahead after the 7th.

We now have one of the best bullpens in baseball. But, will Scott Thorman be ready to step up. Bobby Cox has been excited about this kid for a couple of years. Let’s go with Bobby on this one.

As for LaRoche. He might have 35 HRs and 100 RBIs this season. But, he will strike out a lot. Also, thinking definsively, let us not forget that Adam got beat out at first by Nick Johnson in that game against the Nationals. That started our wonderful June.

Let’s not be mad. Scheurholz has been doing this for years. I don’t even remember who Ryan Klesko is.

By Seth

January 17, 2007 05:33 PM | Link to this

LaLaLand LaRoche, You will not be missed. Don’t forget your ADD medicine when you come to clean out your locker.

By Richard

January 17, 2007 05:33 PM | Link to this

LaRoche’s value can not get any higher. He had a great second half last year, but his long, loopy swing will prevent him from being a consistent power threat. Gonzalez is a young, shut-down guy, who elevates our bullpen from good to great. The possible decrease in offense will be erased by Andruw’s monster contract-year production. I think GREAT trade. GO BRAVES!!! Opponents better be leading by the 6th inning or it’s lights out!!!!

By Head Coach

January 17, 2007 05:33 PM | Link to this

DOB , you got the jump on everybody else. there is no one else reporting this trade as of yet. We will have to see who the second player is before making a real Judgement on this transaction.

By K.D.

January 17, 2007 05:34 PM | Link to this

in order to protect the lead you must have the lead…LaRoche will be a star for many years to come…bad trade in my opinion…Andruw leaves after next year and Chipper’s most productive years are behind him. can you say..”no hitting”

By Ron Roberts

January 17, 2007 05:36 PM | Link to this

There’d better be a veteran 1st or 2nd baseman coming from somewhere, folks, or else all this bullpne pitching won’t mean squat.

Schuerholz should know as well as anybody that it’d DEFENSE that wins games with pitching…pitching with bad defense becomes mediocre pitching.

On the surface, I don’t like this trade; that being said, if we get a quality veteran 2B or 1B in the deal or down the road, I’ll feel better about this. I also wish LaRoche well in Pittsburgh. I think he’ll be embraced and welcomed by the fan base there, rather than chided and derided by the childish malcontents that seem to permeate these blogs and the Turner Field stands, despite his torrid 2nd half of ‘06.

By Mike McCoy

January 17, 2007 05:37 PM | Link to this

Let me put it this way for those of you who think this is a good deal. Wouldn’t you be thrilled if you found out the Mets traded Delgado for Gonzalez? A pitcher of Gonzalez’s quality can be found on minor league teams across the country if one is willing to look for them and isn’t convinced you need “veterans” in the bullpen. And Duffy is a joke - a singles hitter with no plate discipline - so let’s hope he isn’t the other player.

By Bravesman

January 17, 2007 05:37 PM | Link to this

As i recall the braves had great pitching for the entire decade of the 90s and only got one world series win. Pitching can get you to the post season but when you get to the post season you actually face other teams with good pitching. In other words runs are just as important and considering the braves could not come up with 4 million a year is pathetic to keep a hitter who is hitting his prime.

By Gram

January 17, 2007 05:38 PM | Link to this

Pitching makes you a winner. That’s the bottom line. The Braves desperately needed to improve their bullpen, and they did just that. They still have enough offense. LaRoche had a great second half last year, but, if you’ll remember, it came only after he began taking medication for ADD. He resisted it, and who knows if he’ll have problems in the future. I think it’s a great trade. Even if Thorman can’t handle first yet, why not put Chipper over there and move Kelly Johnson to third? It makes sense. Chipper is getting older and is injury-prone. This would be less strenuous for him. Johnson could handle third.

By Tony C.

January 17, 2007 05:39 PM | Link to this

Good Trade!!!

Gonzalez is nasty….LaRoche was finally living up to his promise, but was it hitting we were missing last year or bullpen? Ask Smoltz….plenty of run support, but no one to nail it down. Depending on who we get as the 2nd player this could be one of the better trades in the past few years…Who was the righty bat that was playing left field last year??? he can hit, and I’m sure he’s been learning to shag fly balls over the winter….if not, “Salty” by all accounts seems to be ready….

By parks

January 17, 2007 05:39 PM | Link to this

Why is everybody so down about this? Gonzales has a chance to be the best closer in the NL for years. Laroche is a good player but please remeber the first half of the year everybosy hated him and wanted him traded..

He may become consistant but imo he will be a very streaky player. I like the trade now that I have thought more about it. Thor will be fine at 1st

By OAKTOWN

January 17, 2007 05:39 PM | Link to this

Roach had some pop in his bat towards the end of the season. But the Braves really needed to shore up the bullpen. I like the move. Now I know they wish they did not give up Betemit for nothing last year. They could have put Chipper at first— and Betemit at third. Mark my words Betemit will be a star.

By tommy

January 17, 2007 05:41 PM | Link to this

Whoever it was that said Salty was tearing up the minors at 1b needs to double check the stats. Last year in AA, Salty hit .230 in over 300 ab’s. He is definitely not ready.

By Greg

January 17, 2007 05:41 PM | Link to this

It seems as if the Braves are going back to the foundation that started this run of winning consecutive division titles. That foundation was pitching, bullpen and defense. But, where is the power? It also appears that the Braves are trying to save money and are headed towards futility. I see the Brave fighting to be a .500 plus ballclub and a Wild Card contender. I hope the Braves get a power hitter and RBI producer at first base. I was not a big LaRoche fan, but he did put up some numbers. I predict a 82-80 season and a second consecutive year not in the playoffs.

By Andy

January 17, 2007 05:42 PM | Link to this

There is a reason why JS is the GM. Some of you clowns have no idea what it takes to win in baseball. We have plenty of offense and we needed depth in out bullpen. Remember when the Braves dominated the 90’s and we had great pitching and for the most part an average offense (esp. at 1B. except for the Crime Dog and Galaragga for 2 years) Out of the 14 titles we one, we probably had a great 1B for 5 maybe 6 of those years, but great pitching for all of them.

By Carol

January 17, 2007 05:42 PM | Link to this

Contract or no contract, CHIPPER should have been dumped many moons ago. Losing quality like Marcus and Adam and having to keep CJs pompous, crappy-playing a** just plain sucks. And then there’s the broadcasting issue. Welcome to the downward spiral.

By Dave

January 17, 2007 05:42 PM | Link to this

die hard Braves fan…how is Gonzo an unproven talent exactly anymore the Laroche’s good 1/2 season? Idiot! And DOB didn’t beat everyone…it was first reported by Crasnick at ESPN.

By Montana

January 17, 2007 05:42 PM | Link to this

I hate to lose LaRoche, but I think the more important thing is what’s been happening as far as the Brave’s money situation. We can’t afford to pay a young, good fielding power/average hitting 1B at the max 3.8 million next year? Look out Brewers and Royals, here we come!!!

By Chris

January 17, 2007 05:42 PM | Link to this

Hey Shooty, what is Turner Dome? Have you ever actually seen the Braves play in person?

By ChampDawg

January 17, 2007 05:42 PM | Link to this

Roachey has 1 decent year…. ONE…. and all of a sudden he thinks he’s worth millions. Go on the PEEburg. I’d be willing to take my chances at 1st for more pitching and it looks like that was the decision. I’ve got no problem with it.

By Gram

January 17, 2007 05:42 PM | Link to this

I agree, Oaktown. Trading Betemit looks like a mistake in retrospect. We could have used him at third.

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 05:42 PM | Link to this

OLD ATLANTA WAY.PITCHING, PITCHING, AND MORE PITCHING

By Mike McCoy

January 17, 2007 05:43 PM | Link to this

To bellfree:

I’ll submit I know as much about baseball as anyone on this board. Any front office willing to do their homework can find middle relievers capable of big league bullpen work at a dime a dozen. Take some time and look at the best middle relievers for any given year to the next. They are almost never the same. Beyond the studs like Rivera, Wagner, Hoffman, etc., bullpens should be assembled with cheap, live, fungible arms. We already have Wickman and Soriano (the closer of the future) and Gonzalez puts way too many guys on base. This is a horrible deal.

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 05:44 PM | Link to this

LOL SETH

By JG

January 17, 2007 05:44 PM | Link to this

Good move. LaRoche really came on in the 2nd half but the offense is a strength with-or-without him. Now the bullpen’s a strength. Hopefully, the starters can stay relatively healthy (although I’m worried what the rotation may look like by June).

By Pirate Joe

January 17, 2007 05:44 PM | Link to this

Finally the Braves are trying to make up for robbing us so many years ago in the playoffs! Thanks JS PS-be careful with that elbow…

By Matthew

January 17, 2007 05:46 PM | Link to this

Brian McCann + Jeff Franceour=perennial All-Stars

Chipper + Andruw=this is their last year together, both go over 40 homers

Solid rotation (Smoltz, Hudson, Hampton, James, and fill in the blank) + lights out bullpen= winning in short series and getting to the World Series

I like this trade if the second player is someone we can actually use-not just a throw in.

By Nate

January 17, 2007 05:47 PM | Link to this

Oh wow. This should be interesting. We will miss the glove of LaRoache at first and after the second half of last year his bat. Let’s not forget though that we were one of the better offensive teams in the majors last year, but i sure, sure , sure hope so that we got more than just Gonzalez. This could be the best bullpen ever for the Braves, but i really do hope that we got a bat or young pitcher also.

By Greg in TN

January 17, 2007 05:47 PM | Link to this

Hey everyone….

I don’t know that it makes much sense to get too bent out of shape over this trade until we find out who the third player is actually going to be.

By John Cunningham

January 17, 2007 05:47 PM | Link to this

Just wondering why the Braves wanted to get rid of this guy so badly? He has a gorgeous swing, is young and is just putting it together. Anybody have the inside skinny on this? His ADD is under control, right?

By j

January 17, 2007 05:48 PM | Link to this

ROCO BABY DO IT JS

By Andy

January 17, 2007 05:48 PM | Link to this

Please quit comparing LaRouche to Delgado. Delgado is a proven ALLSTAR for the past 8 years and is a leader on the Mets. LaRouche’s value is at his peak and has only had one good half in his carrer. Would I trade LaRouche for Gonzo, yes. Would I trade Delgado for Gonzo, no. Pitchers aren’t afraid of LaRouche, but they are of Delgado.

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 05:48 PM | Link to this

WITH WICKMAN GETTING OLD ON 1Y CONTRACT IS HE IS AVERAGE . GONZ MIGHT BE THE BACK UP TO CLOSE AFTER THIS YEAR. REMEMBER WE COULDNT GET A CLOSER FOR ALMOST 2YEARS. ITS GOOD TO HAVE PITCHING. GREAT TRADE JS. YOU NEED TO GIVE JS THE BENEFIT OF DOUBT. HE HAS BEEN ABLE GET PITCHING THAT BECAME SUCCESSFUL IN ATLANTA. THIS COULD BE A GREAT TRADE IS 2ND PLAYER IS A FACTOR…..GREAT TRADE AGAIN!!!!!

By kinley

January 17, 2007 05:49 PM | Link to this

The move makes sense. Trade a strength to improve a weakness. On the other hand, I would’ve liked to see the Braves acquire another player in the deal. If Mike Gonzalez is really that good, then I’m fine with it.

By FireBoobyCox

January 17, 2007 05:50 PM | Link to this

BAD, BAD, BAD DEAL! IT IS A SHAME THE O’S TURNED DOWN THE LAROCHE/GILES, ROBERTS/PENN DEAL. THIS DEAL IS TOO LITTLE, TOO LATE.. SET UP FOR WICKMAN, GREAT…

By Dave

January 17, 2007 05:50 PM | Link to this

I’LL REPEAT….IT WASN”T ABOUT THE MONEY!!! Mike G was signed by the Pirates at around 2.5 to 2.8 mil…that plus what the 2nd player makes (even at league minimum) would be at or near what Laroche would have likely got. He would not have gotten 3.8. That number was submitted knowing he would take a little less the same way the Braves submitted 2.7 knowing they’d pay a little more. Get the information right people. IT WASN’T ABOUT MONEY!

By Gram

January 17, 2007 05:50 PM | Link to this

Will someone explain to me how a guy who converted nearly every save opportunity last year (in the high twenties)with an ERA of 2.17 is not a quality pitcher? Gonzales obviously has something going for him.

By Haze Gray

January 17, 2007 05:51 PM | Link to this

Good trade. Get rid of all the players that refuse to come to the ballpark clean looking.

By Bravesfaithful

January 17, 2007 05:53 PM | Link to this

This is a complete joke! Ok our bullepen sucked last year i will be the first to admit! But we already traded a starter for soriano and we already had wickman returning who i thought did a bang-up job. So why do we need to trade a player we had been waiting so long to finally emerge as he did last yr. We wouldnt have to pay him much…he was seeking 3M/yr which he no doubt deserves. So why ship another guy who came up through our system and proved to be a reliable source for Offense. And we all know our offense was inconsistent last season. I definitely am against this trade and hope we got a proven offensive player ALONG with Gonzalez!

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 05:53 PM | Link to this

YA IM DIGGING ROCCO FOR SOME MINORS

BRING ON ROCCO

By jriv

January 17, 2007 05:53 PM | Link to this

We scored more runs than the Mets last year. Pitching was the problem.

By BallBoy

January 17, 2007 05:54 PM | Link to this

Like it or not, this was a trade that had to be made. Sure, LaRoche finally began to put up some decent power numbers with his bat but he still has the most beautiful swing-and-miss in MLB. He is also a defensive liability who hustles only when reminded by our boos. No doubt, the people on this board who are complaining the loudest are the same ones who whined about our bullpen. We now have a solid bullpen and, before the first pitch is thrown, JS and BC will have a quality 1B in place.

By leviinalaska

January 17, 2007 05:55 PM | Link to this

Boy…lots of folks jumping the gun around here. Let’s see who the “player to be named” is before we pass judgment.

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 05:57 PM | Link to this

***HOLD ON HERE* WE CANT FULLY JUDGE UNTIL WE FIND OUT WHO REALLY IS THE 2ND PLAYER. THIS WAS THE MAJOR DEBATE THAT HELD THIS TRADE FOR MONTHS. YOU CANT JUST SAY TERRIBLE TRADE!!!!!!!!!!!

By CJ2

January 17, 2007 05:59 PM | Link to this

Who is going to play first and second? Prada and Thorman? They are OK at best. Do you know what happens to teams that have OK players? They are OK. OK=.500. See last year.

By Bravesfaithful

January 17, 2007 05:59 PM | Link to this

The player at first base better be someone more prepared and better able than Scott Thurman! He’s at the same stage Rochy was 3 years ago! i dont want to have to wait 3 more years for him to mature…cuz then i bet we ship him off. 1B is a power position- we need to get power #s offensively which we got from LaRoche who backed up AJ. Ok so he wasnt the best defensively…but other than that one big mistake which we all remember…i dont recall any other major mishaps. JS get me some offensive power!! And if AJ has to go after this year get me someone WORTHY to take his place.

By John Rocker

January 17, 2007 06:00 PM | Link to this

Thank you, there is a GOD! I heard the player TBA is Randall Simon.

By bravesfan

January 17, 2007 06:01 PM | Link to this

When can we trade the owners, this is getting stupid, we trade away a young great player with power and get a picture who had arm trouble late last year, not only do we need a second baseman, but now a first baseman. BAD! BAD!

By Bald Smelly

January 17, 2007 06:01 PM | Link to this

Well now, all you Braves lovers are split on the trade. Pirates fans are somewhat split, too. We’re glad to have a power threat, for sure, but giving up a nasty lefty closer who went 24-for-24 last season… naaaah, we’re fricken JACKED UP! Eat it!

By dylan

January 17, 2007 06:02 PM | Link to this

certainly the other player in the deal is duffy which would answer the left field spot question if no I sure hope we got one of those young pitchers.otherwise I do not understand this trade at all.mike gonzalez is just a lefty out of the bullpen for us. not a closer we already have 2 people ahead of him for that role and he could be the next reeksma for us as easily as he could be the next remlinger.

By bravesfan

January 17, 2007 06:04 PM | Link to this

When can we trade the owners, this is getting stupid, we trade away a young great player with power and get a picture who had arm trouble late last year, not only do we need a second baseman, but now a first baseman. BAD! BAD!

By Adam

January 17, 2007 06:05 PM | Link to this

Idiotic move by the Braves.

By Gram

January 17, 2007 06:05 PM | Link to this

Give JS just a little credit. His moves have worked out far more often than not. He’s dealing with a middle-of-the road payroll and has been for years. Can someone explain to me how a lefthander with a career 2.37 ERA in 158 games is not a valuable commdity? The Braves now have a deeper, more balanced bullpen. You win with pitching. LaRoche had half of ONE good season. You think the Braves don’t do their homework?

By bravesfan

January 17, 2007 06:05 PM | Link to this

When can we trade the owners, this is getting stupid, we trade away a young great player with power and get a picture who had arm trouble late last year, not only do we need a second baseman, but now a first baseman. BAD! BAD!

By mike

January 17, 2007 06:07 PM | Link to this

Good move.Now lets do something about our overpaid 3rd baseman.We can still get something for him from the AL as a DH.

By Jay

January 17, 2007 06:08 PM | Link to this

This trade is bad for next year and terrible for the future. So we have the seventh locked down…problem is we wont have a lead when we get there. Has everyone forgotten how much of a joke our starters were last year outside of Smoltz? We NEED a strong lineup to offset our crap starters! Unless you are kidding yourself to think that Hudson will suddenly “get it” when he’s already said he cant handle the humidity, or you trust a mid-30s pitcher who hasnt thrown in two years, or a pitcher just off his rookie season. Our bullpen wasnt great but once we got Wick it was fine.

We have no second baseman, no left fielder, now no 1st basemen. Third base wont play more then 120 games, center field and right field are good for 250 strikeouts and an obp of around .325. Still no leadoff hitter. And next year? Ha. Take out homers and 120 rbis. Our offense is TOAST.

The ONLY way I see this working is if McCann or Salty move to 1st. Otherwise we’re going to have too many holes to compete.

Look, I couldnt stand some of Cockroache’s dumb moves. And he was a streaky hitter, good for one half and crap the other half. But he looked like a solid bat once he got on the meds. To trade a 30 homer, 100 rbi, .280, left-handed, gold-glove 1st basemen…we should have gotten much more then a freakin middle reliever! A starter or leadoff hitter would have served so much better.

Now, how many hitters do the pitchers have to worry about. They know they can strike out Frenchy and A Jones. They know Chipper wont play all three games of a series because he gets hurt when the sun rises. They know McCann wont play all three games of a series simply because he is a catcher. They know Renteria can be pitched around when Chipper isnt in the lineup to protect him. Its going to be UGLY.

By summerteeth

January 17, 2007 06:11 PM | Link to this

Gonzo and Ian Snell for LaRoche and Lerew

By summerteeth

January 17, 2007 06:12 PM | Link to this

maybe not

By ronp

January 17, 2007 06:13 PM | Link to this

This is not pretty..LaRoche is not only very popular but clearly one of the up and coming stars in the league..

This can be salvaged by moving Diaz to first and Langerhans to left and he can lead off…line-up is still potent and it remains to be seen how good will be the new and improved bull pen?

It will have to excel in order to justify this deal which could turn out to be one of the all time great blunders of the world!!

By Bravesalways

January 17, 2007 06:14 PM | Link to this

We have turned into the minor league where every major league team plucks their players. Look, last year we dies as we had no closer and our should have been closer was closing out for the Cardinals in the World Series.

While they complain we have no money, they trade a 60 home run player, yes watch he will hit 60 for the pirates and this Gonzalez who is a baby will come to the Braves and turn into Dan Kolb. Pittsburg is a terrible team with terrible players, so let give them ours. Yes lets.

Now what I want to know is next year with a payroll of 80 milliona and the need for a centerfielder, 1st baseman, and 3rd baseman (Chipper wont last another year) where do we go from there. No wonder the perdictions have been Braves in the celler. They have been taken down by their own management. This management knows what they are doing. They are paving the way for the Mets and all the other teams in the NLE by giving away our players. IMO they just drove the Braves to their grave.

Good luck with yall, I will no longer spend a dime with this club. I a fan of baseball have had enought of giving away players (he makes 2.5 million this year) for nothing. NOTHING.

GOOD LUCK ADAM.

By Braves20

January 17, 2007 06:15 PM | Link to this

JS - Good luck replacing a frigging 280-30-90 guy under 30 years of age.. We now have three offensive black holes - 3,4 and 7. Absolutely moronic unless the player to be named is Jason Bay.

By J. Ferrell

January 17, 2007 06:16 PM | Link to this

Pitching is the name of the game. It is obvious that good pitching beats good hitting anytime. Just look at the Braves when they had Joe Torre, Hank Aaron, Rico Carty, et al.

By austin

January 17, 2007 06:17 PM | Link to this

32 homers…90 rbi’s gone all for another pitcher who will be gone next year….just like the wilson betemit trade.Unbelievable

By beachcomber

January 17, 2007 06:18 PM | Link to this

Might we have possibly over-reacted to last year’s bullpen meltdown?

By leviinalaska

January 17, 2007 06:22 PM | Link to this

“Good luck with yall, I will no longer spend a dime with this club. I, a fan of baseball, have had enough of giving away players (he makes 2.5 million this year) for nothing. NOTHING.”

I’d recommend a reality check. You don’t know who the Braves got in the trade. It’s Gonzales and “a player to be named.” If a reality check isn’t in your future, perhaps a few vicodin washed down with some gin and a nice rest on the couch will help…

By bob

January 17, 2007 06:22 PM | Link to this

looks as if Braves will pointing towards a team full of no names.

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 06:23 PM | Link to this

RANDELL SIMON?? IS THAT TRUE?

By flew the coop

January 17, 2007 06:25 PM | Link to this

Is Gonzeulaganez a good quarterback? There’s more unused talent on the bench. That’s what I don’t understand. Those guys can play center field and defensive back and they just sit there in the pits changing tires for Chipwad Jones. Idiotic. Mora and Cox should have seen this coming and spent some bucks to get someone who can rebound and doesn’t foul out in the third quarter. Losers. Maybe Beckham is the second player and somebody can finally teach Vick how to throw a soccer ball. One of these guys better know how to sing karaoke or I won’t be sitting through 500 laps of this nonsense.

By Mark

January 17, 2007 06:26 PM | Link to this

I’m p**. Where is Terance Moore’s article killing JS for not trading Laroche for a black guy. He is clearly a racist and needs to go.

By Doug

January 17, 2007 06:26 PM | Link to this

I am excited about the move. Yes, I liked LaRoche a lot, he was a hot bat and a great 1st baseman, but last season bared it all … and it was the bullpen that broke the Braves back.

I totally agree with you DOB, with Gonzalez, Soriano, AND Bobzilla, the Braves have one of the most powerful bullpens in pro-ball. It was a very smart move.

NOW … we just have to wait and see who the second “mystery” trade is. I would imagine it is a bat … but I am wondering who. I doubt JS would pull the trigger on the trade for someone we couldn’t utilize so I am guessing that it is someone who we can put in the defensive field.

We’ll see. Getting Gonzalez was awesome. The kid has a rocket launcher on his arm AND a southpaw.

By FootballFan

January 17, 2007 06:26 PM | Link to this

Stopped caring about baseball two years ago. America’s game turned into a big business and has been going down hill since 1994. The steroids issuea has turned heroes into chumps. McGwire, Sosa, Canseco, Palmeiro and Bonds so sad, too bad. The Braves have been going downhill since Turner sold them. No more baseball for me. Go Falcons!!!!

By woogidy

January 17, 2007 06:28 PM | Link to this

TYPICAL SECOND GUESSING ATLANTA FANS. THIS MOVE IS BRILLIANT. THE BRAVES HAVE THE BEST BULLPEN IN THE NL AND POSSIBLY THE BEST STARTING ROTATION IN THE NL, DEFINITELY IN THE DIVISION. SO, SAY LAROCHE’S REPLACEMENT HITS .260 WITH 15 HOMERS, AND 60 RBI. YOU GIVE UP 15 HOMERS AND 30 RBI FOR A GUY WHO DID NOT, I REPEAT, DID NOT BLOW A SAVE LAST YEAR. HOW MANY OF YOU SECOND GUESSERS HAVE SEEN HIM PITCH? THIS GUY IS MONEY. BRAVES LEAD IN THE 6TH INNING. GAME OVER. SORIANO, GONZALEZ, WICKMAN. THIS ORGANIZATION AND THE DIVISION STREAK WAS BUILT ON THE ARMS OF YOUNG PITCHING, NOT ON THE MUSCLES OF ANY HOME RUN HITTING FIRST BASEMEN.

By Chief

January 17, 2007 06:29 PM | Link to this

This deal could be great, or it could be bad. First, we have no idea who the other player is - until we know that, how can we say this is a bum deal? Second, LaRoche was a bum this time last year, and really until June of last year - now we have all of Atlanta coming out to his defense? I sometimes wonder if this would have been the reaction if we had traded away Jorge Sosa last offseason (which, looking back, would have been brilliant) - would people have screamed that we just traded away the Braves’ best starter, with the best ERA?

Mike Gonzales is an outstanding closer who would have saved 40 games each of the last 3 years if the Pirates had actually won any games. We now have what we’ve never had - a lockdown lefty, a surefire setup man, and a proven closer all at the same time. Can we at least see how that works before considering it the kiss of death?

On the downside, we did lose a lot of power here, although Thorman could turn out to make up for a good bit of that - we just don’t know. I’m mostly worried about our defensive inexperience on the right side of the infield - there are now a total of 12 major league starts between our projected 2B/1B starters (K. Johnson/S. Thorman). That’s tough.

By Riprock

January 17, 2007 06:29 PM | Link to this

GREAT trade by the Braves… Bullpen is now one of the best in baseball. Ask any of the Braves starters what they think of the deal.. Let’s see, Gonzalez, Soriano and Wickman vs last year’s group of McBride, Yates and Reitsma…What three would you take?… And who knows, JS may swing Gonzalez to Tampa to help get Baldelli who everybody on this blog has been clamoring for…Lord knows, Tampa could use a closer, too…Let’s see how this whole thing plays out…But even if that doesn’t happen, this is a GREAT move. Kudos to JS.

By MS

January 17, 2007 06:31 PM | Link to this

Man…as much as I hate to see LaRoche go, I think this will be a good trade in the long run. We DO need pitching and that is how you win games. We are bolstering our bullben and that is great thing and I think Thorman might just do it at first base. He has the power to hit like Adam did, granted the defense is not the same caliber as Adam, but give him time. I wanna be positive about things and I think all of this will turn out good for the Bravos. Good luck to Adam, he will be missed, but that is the nature of the job. Go Braves!

By Paul Hamilton

January 17, 2007 06:31 PM | Link to this

Jay get a clue, you might be able to catch some Oprah reruns. Giles sucked last year and yes we will definitely miss Laroche, but please our offense didn’t suddenly fall off the planet. We only had one of the best offenses in the league with terrible lead off production and chipper hurt half the year. I like the idea of having a more balanced team top to bottom, and add to that Andruw in his free agency year. I predict a monster year from Andruw. Offense didnt win us jack last year, and the bullpen was a joke. Did you even watch any of the games last year…Oh you were too busy watching Oprah, my bad.

By The Truth

January 17, 2007 06:33 PM | Link to this

Anyone ever think of the fact that they may be dumping LaRoche so they CAN sign Andruw next year? Everyone needs to calm the heck down…this blog was filled last season with bullpen complaints and now we address it and everyone is up in arms. LaRoche is a good player, but stop mentioning him as an All-Star…give me a break. I think JS might be working on one more piece to the puzzle, but let’s all settle down for now. Good trade, can’t wait to see who the second player is. YOU HAVE TO GIVE SOMETHING GOOD UP TO GET SOMETHING GOOD IN RETURN!

By b man

January 17, 2007 06:35 PM | Link to this

Sad to see LaRoche go since he put up such solid numbers last season but the Braves REALLY NEED PITCHING & w/ the addition of Gonzalez, the bullpen should be one of the best in the majors w/ Soriano & Gonzalez setting up Wickman.

Think back to last season, how many more games could have been won w/ a sronger bullpen? Off the top of my head I would guess 10-15.

Pitching has carried the Braves in the past and it’s good to see the front office addressing the obvious weakness.

Go Braves!!!!

By Scat Baldwin

January 17, 2007 06:36 PM | Link to this

My gut tells me that 06 Adams best and that it’s only down hill with a big price tag for years to come. If Duffy is involved…then this will be good for 07. Not sure who plays first? Maybe Mr. “I never did Steriods” is interested.

By Mark

January 17, 2007 06:39 PM | Link to this

Thank God!!! Great trade! I say Chipper should play first.

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 06:39 PM | Link to this

OK TRADE UPDATE!!!!!!!!!!!

GONZALEZ AND DAVIES TRADED TO TB/ FOR ROCCO BALDELLI !

By Mark

January 17, 2007 06:39 PM | Link to this

I think this is a good move. I hope Chipper plays first.

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 06:40 PM | Link to this

LOOK AT TRADE RUMORS ON CNNSI.COM..BRAVES AND BALDELLI MIX WELL

By Luv 2 Hate Me

January 17, 2007 06:40 PM | Link to this

JS has F*%^ed up again. Pitching won’t always when you ball games. We need decent hitters. We are aquiring people we can’t keep. Just like the Wilson B trade. They need to sell the damn team quick so we can get some money and start making moves for next year.

By Mark

January 17, 2007 06:41 PM | Link to this

I think this is a good move. I think LaRoche’s second half was a fluke. I this he is lazy. I hope they move Chipper to first.

By Bob

January 17, 2007 06:42 PM | Link to this

Wow! What a move. This move certainly bolsters our bullpen and should put up some great numbers. I believe that with these players in the pen, there isnt another team that can come close to our pen. The way I see it is that we have a great bullpen, average pitching, and an average offense team. When it is all said and done, we will have 90 wins, will be a wild card team, and lose in the second round of the playoffs due to the lack of offense. Good luck Bravos!

By Mike P

January 17, 2007 06:42 PM | Link to this

What goes around comes around. It’s been a great ride but the Braves may takes years before they win a division again. LaRoche is a bone head. He won’t be missed and he won’t make much of a difference in Pittsburgh. JS is on target, pitching is still it!

By raymond

January 17, 2007 06:42 PM | Link to this

the deal hinges on the 2nd player. if he is useful, it is okay. if not, this trade is another bad financial decision. this is what the Blackhawks do in hockey-trade guys who are going to win in arbitration-and see where it has gotten them ! after months of insisting on a 2nd player, we better have gotten a reasonable one.

By Jerry

January 17, 2007 06:43 PM | Link to this

Bad trade. No one was as good at digging out the low throws from 3rd and SS as La Rouche and there is no one coming in to replace his bat.

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 06:43 PM | Link to this

I WAS THINKING OF THAT TOO ” THE TRUTH” ANDREW WILL GIVE US A CHANCE TO MATCH OR GET CLOSE TO AN OFFER

By SC DAWG

January 17, 2007 06:45 PM | Link to this

I’m glad he’s gone! I never liked his silly a$$ anyway or Giles for that matter. I just hope we got more than Gonzalez in the deal.

By BravesFaninRockies

January 17, 2007 06:45 PM | Link to this

BAllsy move by JS. Hate to see LaRoche go, but face it, he was hitting 7th or 8th in the order until Chipper broke down. We’ll miss his glove at first, but Thorman looks like a very similar player at a comparable stage in his career. And we have the huge Hawaiian guy in the minors. Great move for now and the future.

By Jch

January 17, 2007 06:45 PM | Link to this

Until Wickman came over late last season we had no closer - now we have 3???? Can anyone say “overkill”???

This is so short-sighted it’s ridiculous! How does management expect to keep 3 top notch closers in a bullpen for more than a season? Assuming Wickman is “THE” closer do they expect the other 2 to be satisfied as “set-up” men when they could easily close for most any team in baseball??? They’ll be out of Atlanta at their first opportunity… and I don’t blame them.

The “player to be named later” better be worth it; but I doubt it. If he were we’d already know who it is.

I hate to see Laroche go, especially for a position we’ve already filled; TWICE!

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 06:46 PM | Link to this

BRAVESV TRADED GONZALEZ ALREADY AND DAVIES FOR ROCCO BALDELLI!!!!

WOW

By Bo

January 17, 2007 06:47 PM | Link to this

Good deal but the Braves still are working on a couple of deals….per one Braves brass.

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 06:48 PM | Link to this

hey RAYMOND have NO IDEA what u talking about ! bad financial decision?? laroche makes around 3.5 million…gonz at 2.35 milllion. what financial decision. this is geting to the old pitching days DONT GIVE ME THAT GARBAGE

By Bill

January 17, 2007 06:49 PM | Link to this

From an outsiders perspective this could be a very good deal for the Braves if they parlay one of these relivers ie; Soriano to the Yankees for Melky Cabrera.

By Ray

January 17, 2007 06:50 PM | Link to this

IT comes down to who that other player is. IF its Torres someone like that, don’t like it. IF its an arm or Duffy its potentially very good.

By bwash21

January 17, 2007 06:50 PM | Link to this

I’ll wait to pass judgement right now and see what 24 guys we put on the field on April 2nd.

By Sam Burgess

January 17, 2007 06:51 PM | Link to this

Well I think it was one of the dumbest moves the Braves could have made you had a great first basemen that had like a .995 fielding percentage and hit 32 homeruns and over 100 RBIs who knows what could have happened next year all I have to say is if this guy they got isn’t as good as they say he is then some people need to be looking for a new job

By glorydays

January 17, 2007 06:54 PM | Link to this

Excuse I was thinking of LaRoche and lost my train of thought…was that a runner that just went by. I like it

By Tom McCamy

January 17, 2007 06:56 PM | Link to this

Terrible trade considering Gonzalez is only a setup man now, if we didn’t have a closer I might be able to understand this one.

By Luke

January 17, 2007 06:56 PM | Link to this

24 out of 24 in the save department and we are complaining? I know Rochey was starting to put it all together, but c’mon this guy is going to be a tremendous asset to this organization. The Cardinals, White Sox, and Red Sox bull pens the last 3 seasons were the most CRUCIAL parts of their world series championships, so let’s embrace Gonzo!!!

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 06:58 PM | Link to this

I THINK WE WILL ATTACK TAMPA BAY FOR ROCCO WE CAN DANGLE GONZALEZ.WERE JUST GETTING TB WHAT THEY WANT IN RETURN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Braves20

January 17, 2007 06:59 PM | Link to this

if js is going to flip gonzalez it better for baldelli not that overrated yankee left fielder.

By jch

January 17, 2007 07:00 PM | Link to this

I hope there is another deal in the works; it’s the only way to make any sense of this one

By Aaron Egnor

January 17, 2007 07:01 PM | Link to this

We’ve got nothing to worry about. I hear Robert Fick is looking for a job again. Someone call Sid Bream and find out if he can put that hip replacement off for a year or two.
The Bravos bullpen better be the best in all of baseball because it’s doubtful this team is gonna average more than 4 runs a game now….

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 07:02 PM | Link to this

*MAJOR NEWS

I HAVE THE PLAYER NOW ITS SERIOUSLY

BRENT LILLIBRIDGE. PECOTA SYSTTEM RATES HIM 9TH BEST SHORTSTOP IN 07

By joey

January 17, 2007 07:02 PM | Link to this

if we got chris duffy, than yes it is a good move. saltamachia (spelling) would be a good alternative in the future with thorman at first. duffy would fix the left field deal and leadoff issues. plus, andruw is gone next year barring some ted turner sized miracle. if we got a player to be named later, than the deal will be a complete joke. laroche has gotten better and better hitting and defensively every year. he won’t be jim thome, but being a palmeiro or a grace type is just as good. that is where laroche will be. please have duffy in this!!

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 07:03 PM | Link to this

ITS A 4 PLAYER DEAL SOURCES SAY BRAVES MIGHT GIVE A MINOR. ITS BRENT LILLIBRIDGE!!!!!!!!!!!!!\

BRENT BRENT BRENT = FUTURE SS

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 07:04 PM | Link to this

VALID SOURCES::::::::: BRENT LILLIBRIDGE IN THE OTHER PLAYER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!CHECK MLBRUMORS.COM

By Shane

January 17, 2007 07:04 PM | Link to this

In our world series year, 1995, we hit 168 homers and scored 645 runs.

In 2006, The Year Which Will Live In Infamy, we hit 222 homers and scored 849 runs.

The difference?

In 95, we only gave up 540 runs - in 06, 805.

Pitching wins championships, it’s a tried and true maxim.

McCann, Francoeur, Chipper, Andruw, Renteria…we’ll score plenty, and with the best bullpen in baseball, we’ll win plenty, too.

By Jim Staudt

January 17, 2007 07:05 PM | Link to this

If they are this desperate to save $$$, maybe they could also get those atrocious 70’s-vintage softball team uni’s out of storage. After all, it looks like losing will be returning as a way of life in Braves Baseball

By JJMB

January 17, 2007 07:05 PM | Link to this

I would just like to say I’m quite relieved Don Sutton is finally gone, and Joe Simpson is going to be doing most of the games! It’s going to be a great season!

LaRoche had his breakout season, and will cash in. Good for him. I still think that his long swing, and his attention problems are big question marks long term. I hope he does well in Pittsburgh.

By Ray

January 17, 2007 07:06 PM | Link to this

I hope they do not trade Gonzalez to TB for Rocco. Lets keep him. Best bullpen period. Top 5 total pitching staff in all of baseball. NOW if we can trade davies.. and the others previously mentioned for Rocco by all means. We got MG from Pitt, lets keep him now. DOB WHAT ARE YOU HEARING?

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 07:06 PM | Link to this

ITS BRENT LILLBRIDGE S=SHORTSTOP BORN IN ‘83..HAS SERIOUS POTENTIAL!!!COLLEGE UWASHINGTON

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 07:07 PM | Link to this

I BELIEVE WE MAY GIVE A PROSPECT FOR GONZOLAS AND BRENT LILLIBRIDGE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By lin

January 17, 2007 07:07 PM | Link to this

well figured it would happen eventually oh well remember what help adam to get better hitting bet wont be able to continue hitting well if they deceide to question it all, be interesting

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 07:08 PM | Link to this

REMEMBER BRENT LILLIBRIDGE HE IS 2ND PLAYER IN THE TRADE.UNCLEAR WHO WE GAVE WITH ROCHIE

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 07:11 PM | Link to this

BRENT LILLBRIDGES STATS====4TH ROUND PICK 121 OVERALL PICK. IN 05.. 03//1ST TEAM ALL AMERICAN.. 04/ PAC 10 ALL STAR AND 05- PAC 10 ALL STAR… HE IS LEGIT

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 07:13 PM | Link to this

OFFICIAL TRADE_

LAROCHIE AND PROSPECT FOR

GONZALEZ AND BRENT LILLBRIDGE

THIS IS THE REAL UPDATE

By Chuck

January 17, 2007 07:14 PM | Link to this

I think it was a good move for the Braves in the long run. It will help having Gonzalez when Wickman is gone. I think we’ll be alright at first with Thorman, but maybe thats wishful thinking. Hopefully what happened with Mccann and Franceour will happen with Johnson and Thorman. Lightning in a bottle right!

By parks

January 17, 2007 07:15 PM | Link to this

good post Shane. Losing Laroche will not destroy this offense. C’mon people

By Ray

January 17, 2007 07:15 PM | Link to this

I have a nephew that played with Lillibridge and talking to my nephew right now.. and he says that this guy is a major stud. But that is coming from a teammate. He tells me that this barring injury will be the braves ss very soon.

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 07:19 PM | Link to this

GREAT TRADE JS.. GONZALEZ A TRUE BULLPEN HELP AND BRENT LILLBRIDGE A FUTURE SS TALENT…NICE MOVE

LILLBRIDGE COULD GO FAR HE HAS SICK RAW TALENTS(APPERENTLY)

By Paul

January 17, 2007 07:20 PM | Link to this

Great job, Schuerholz! You just saved $3.7 million — but you also just lost a sale on 4 Dugout Level season tickets, valued at $16,000, courtesy of me. I realize the bullpen has been erratic - but sheesh! Where DO you think all of those runs came from in the first place? It sure as hell wasn’t courtesy of Chipper “The Wind Blows from the West and therefore I’m too hurt to play” Jones.

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 07:22 PM | Link to this

RAY GOT ANY STATS ON BRENT LILLBRIDGE???/

By MIKEY

January 17, 2007 07:22 PM | Link to this

WON’T MATTER; BRAVES ON A SLIDE THAT IS GOING TO LAST AS LONG AS THE LAST RIDE. OTHER TEAMS ARE BUYING THEIR WAY TO POST-SEASON. BRAVES OWNERS DON’T CARE THAT MUCH ANY MORE. FANS SHOULDN’T EITHER. THEY “HAD” A GOOD YOUNG TEAM IN THE WORKS; NOT ANY MORE. CAN YOU SAY BOTTOM-FEEDERS?

By Mark

January 17, 2007 07:22 PM | Link to this

I’m p**. Where is Terance Moore’s article killing JS for not trading for a black guy. JS is clearly a racist and needs to go.

By tim

January 17, 2007 07:22 PM | Link to this

not another boneheaded move by the morons in the front office. Another in a long list. I swear they must want me to blow two gaskets. Thorman is not ready to fill LaRoche’s shoes I guess we are going back to the old useless Platoon situation. The first time we get a real everyday 1bagger and they give him up. Smooth.

By George

January 17, 2007 07:23 PM | Link to this

If this is the same guy who didn’t hustle down the baseline to first after a grounder, good riddance. And, Pete Rose should be in the Hall of Fame!!

By blyttle

January 17, 2007 07:23 PM | Link to this

A great trade!LaRoche was never going to be a “Braves” type player.Will he be a good player for the Pirates?—-I DON’T THINK SO!

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 07:23 PM | Link to this

BRENT LILLBRIDGE= 3 TIME COLLEGE ALL STAR AND 4TH ROUND PICK..WE COULD USE HIM VERY VERY SOON…2ND BASE MAYBE??

By JB

January 17, 2007 07:24 PM | Link to this

From having the worst bullpen pre-Wickman to best three moves later.

This is worth another 5-10 wins.

By Colorado Braves fan

January 17, 2007 07:25 PM | Link to this

Gonzalez makes $2.35 million. LaRoche was probably going to get around $3 million. That’s not a salary dump.

This was a great baseball move. A lot of fans tend to overlook the importance of a bullpen and simply look at the fact that 32 homers were traded away. That’s great that LaRoche hit 32 homers, but the Braves went 79-83 and blew 29 saves! A good bullpen gives Atlanta 10 more wins, and they land in the playoffs.

Gonzalez was 24-for-24 in save opportunties last year, and has a 2.37 ERA in 168 career games. Plus, he’s struck out 183 in 155.2 innings.

Power-hitting first basemen are easier to find than great bullpen help.

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 07:27 PM | Link to this

OK SO MAYBE SALTY DOG AT 1ST AND LILLBRIDGE AT 2ND… OK MAYBE A STREACH BUT NOT NEXT YEAR!!

By Brooklyn Braves Brawler

January 17, 2007 07:30 PM | Link to this

I like the deal for Gonzalez and I wasn’t big LaRouche fan anyway. I see a platoon at first coming considering we have no power off the bench. Diaz will be everyday in LF and Kelly Johnson will be leading off even though I’m a huge fan of Prado.

Still think we need one more starter. I don’t trust Davies. Rather have Tony Armas.

Who’s a power righty bat that’s FA for cheap?

By Brave Fan in Denver

January 17, 2007 07:31 PM | Link to this

If it is Lillibridge he did have pretty good stats last year in two levels of A ball. In 475 at-bats he had 13 HR’s, 71 RBI’s, 53 stolen bases (caught 13 times), 305 batting avg., .419 OBP, 87 walks and 104 strikeouts. He was an all-star in the SAL League, and Baseball America Low-A all-star.

By Wickman Fan

January 17, 2007 07:31 PM | Link to this

Great trade. Yeah, LaRoche hits pretty good when he can remember his ADD meds. BUT, how long will MLB allow him to take them? Otherwise, he wants to be rancher. Good riddance.

By TLJ

January 17, 2007 07:31 PM | Link to this

For the past 6 weeks all I’ve heard is Littlefield wasn’t very smart and JS was the master. It appers that Littlefield was dumb like a fox.

The Braves were in the driver’s seat on this trade. The Braves didn’t need Gonzalez, he makes a good bullpen better. The Pirates had to have LaRoche. All JS had to do was wait and let the Pirates up the ante. He blew this big time. This rates up there with the Jermaine Dye trade.

I hear everybody talking about getting back to pitching. The Braves won all the years due to excellent STARTING PITCHERS, good defense and an average bullpen. This trade does not add to the SP, it takes away from the defense and improves an already good bullpen. If you don’t score runs you won’t need an excellent bullpen.

You guys can forget about Baldelli from TB because we don’t have SP to spare and that is what they are asking for. If JS had gotten one of their starter’s then we would have been a position to put together a package for Baldelli.

An earlier post stated this wasn’t a salary dump because Gonzalez just signed for 2.9 Million and LaRoche will probably sign for something in the area of 3.4 million. Guys that is a difference of $ 500,000, to this team that is a helluva lot of money.

I was really getting excited about the upcoming baseball season but this killed that excitement. Unless that 2nd player is an impact player (which is what JS has been stating it would be) I think we just assured the Mets another division title and a 3rd or 4 th place finish for the Braves.

The other teams in baseball are celebrating our misery. Pay back is hell. I gotta go and watch the Hawks at least they have a competitive team.

By Joe Smoe

January 17, 2007 07:32 PM | Link to this

Im undecided on this one. I like the better bullpen depth. One can never be too deep in the bullpen. I hated watching the Braves pound teams then loose in the last 3 innings over and over agian.

If we can get a decent 250 ish average out of the 2nd base and 1st base we are fine. But otherwise, we just lost way to much on the right side of the mound.

Ill see what JS has planned before I make my mind up on this one.

Either way sounds like we saved another million perhaps.

By Hotspur

January 17, 2007 07:32 PM | Link to this

Rochie. Love the enthusiasm. Hate the screaming caps and the multiple posts saying essentially the same thing. Dial it back a notch, bother, would you? Thanks, man.

By Jimmy

January 17, 2007 07:33 PM | Link to this

Anybody got any stats on this Lillibridge kid????

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 07:34 PM | Link to this

GUYS THE PROSPECT WE GOT IS NOT TOO SHABBY.. SERIOUSLY WE MADE IT OK STILL DONT KNOW WHAT PROSPECT WE GAVE UP!

BRENT LILLBRIDGE= FUTURE BRAVE 2ND BASE

By rupert

January 17, 2007 07:34 PM | Link to this

seriously, all the wanna-be gm’s need to shut up, you can say your not sure about this trade, free country so fine, but dont call js an idiot, it aint his fault about time warner and liberty and all that bs, the trade makes the braves have one of it not the best bullpens in the nl, definitely in the east, laroache will be missed, but look at it this way, the braves probably saw something they didnt like about laroche, slow swing, lackadasical play, i think they set out to trade him while his value is at its peak, i think last year was the best he will do, i think the braves agree, everyone who says they hate the deal hated laroache before the last 2 months, 2 months dont make a player, we need a better bullpen, that cost us the wild card last year, offense didnt, thorman has power, salty will now move over too, fixes a bunch of problems… back off and listen to rupert, he tells no lies

By Ray

January 17, 2007 07:35 PM | Link to this

Roachie.. my nephew told me the kid has always hit around 300 and has quickness.. can steal bases and great hands.. power as he gets older will increase

By Blank buy the Braves!

January 17, 2007 07:36 PM | Link to this

I like the move, i hope we get a good bench player in addition! sucks cheap a$$ time warner coundnt keep ward. I wish Blank would buy the braves…or Ted again!

By KC

January 17, 2007 07:37 PM | Link to this

I don’t know if it’s a good move or not, but HS!!! What a bullpen!!!!

If Yates, McBride, and Villarreal pick up where they left off late last season… wow.

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 07:38 PM | Link to this

HOTSPUR::: WE GOT LAROCHIE TRADED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!LOVE U TOO

By Ray

January 17, 2007 07:39 PM | Link to this

Apparently the kid is a true SS not secondbaseman. Good speed..made the allstar team this past year.

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 07:40 PM | Link to this

NICE LOOK UP BRAVESFAN FROM DENVER..GOOD POTENTIAL FROM LILLBRIDGE

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 07:41 PM | Link to this

YA HE IS SS BUT WE CAN CHANGE HIM

By Jimmy

January 17, 2007 07:42 PM | Link to this

im looking at Lillibridges stats and they look pretty good. Hes also got speed he stole 29 out of 37 bases.

By tim

January 17, 2007 07:43 PM | Link to this

Hey Rupert some of what you said makes sense but some of us who value the glove that LaRoche wears as much if not more than the bat that finally came to life. You are talking about one of the games premier defensive first basemen, even with his “focus” problems. I think he is on the way up. But only time will tell. One more thing I’m with you on the screw AOL/Time Warner they ruined americas team

By Jay W

January 17, 2007 07:44 PM | Link to this

http://baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=5771&mode=print

Don’t know what all the hype with this kid is based on…he’s no Elvis Andrus or Yunel Escobar.

IF it is Lillibridge that the Braves pick up in this deal, I SERIOUSLY doubt this is the last deal we hear about. Something’s a little fishy here…I could see one of these bullpen arms, one of our 3 SS prospects, and a SP prospect or Davies in a deal for Baldelli (seems like a logical fit/match with TB and not just a dream scenario like some ideas that float around in here).

By Colorado Braves fan

January 17, 2007 07:45 PM | Link to this

Looking at another post - To Sam Burgess: LaRoche didn’t have over 100 RBIs. He had 90.

Let’s not pretend the Braves just traded Albert Pujols or Ryan Howard. Yeah, LaRoche’s 32 homers were nice, but his other numbers (.285 average, 90 RBIs, 89 runs) where quite pedestrian.

Even LaRoche’s fielding percentage of .996 - which has been mentioned as a reason to keep him - is no reason to hang on to him. Yes, it’s a pretty good fielding percentage, but it’s not hard to have a great-looking fielding percentage at first base. Nomar Garciaparra also had a .996 percentage, and he was playing 1B for the first time. Scott Hatteberg was at .996. Adrian Gonzalez was at .995. Carlos Delgado at .994. These are not players known for their defense.

Atlanta will find a 1B. Great trade, JS.

By KC

January 17, 2007 07:46 PM | Link to this

Listen, I don’t know if it’s a good trade or not, but it certainly isn’t a terrible one. Those of you who are blasting JS for this move… you haven’t paid any attention to what they’re getting in return. Mike Gonzalez was perfect in save opportunities last year. He can throw through a brick wall, and will team with Wickman, Soriano, and some other good young arms to form what very well could be the best bullpen in baseball this year.

And after this year, we have our closer situation taken care of. Keep in mind that Wickman is getting up in years, and if he pitches anywhere near as well for ATL this year as he did last year, he’ll get an offer from someone next season in the 10 million range (in this asinine free agent market).

For now… best bullpen in NL. Next year, a dominant low-cost closer.

As for 1B, Thorman has a lot of potential. It’ll be good to see what this kid can do. I’m not expecting 32 homers and close to 100 RBI, but I’ll bet you he hits 20-plus homers in 07’.

By Sir Stealth

January 17, 2007 07:49 PM | Link to this

I had talked myself into keeping Laroche enough to be initially disappointed by this, but it has only taken about 5 minutes of remembering the constant backbreaking strikeouts and double plays, not to mention boneheaded baserunning and fielding errors, to get over it.

Adam seems like a great guy and I wish him well. I really hope that adderal didn’t really turn him into a great player that we are giving away right now.

Also, if anyone can simply be “done” with the Braves because they don’t like something they do, then they were never really “with” the Braves in the first place. And Bobby Cox is one of the five greatest managers in the history of baseball.

By Ray

January 17, 2007 07:49 PM | Link to this

I don’t want to see the braves move Gonzalez now. I know that is rumored but lets hope not. Thorman will be just fine at First. For anyone that was wondering, Lillbridge played at Hickory which is a low class A league. Young kid.. pretty good league. Infield apparently there is really bad and the kid can glove big time.

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 07:51 PM | Link to this

JAY W ..THAT SEEMS PROMISING..GO BRENT….THE OFFICIAL WORD ABOUT HIM IS MLBTRADERUMORS.COM..I FOUND ABOUT TRADE BEFORE AJC! THEY ARE QUICK.. THIS SITE IS LEGIT,,,FOR THOSE DOUBTERS

By KC

January 17, 2007 07:51 PM | Link to this

You just know that right now, Mike Gonzalez is popping the cork off some Champaign, while somewhere as we speak… Chipper Jones is talking poor Adam LaRoche off a ledge.

By Jimmy

January 17, 2007 07:51 PM | Link to this

i think we should trade Rafeal Soriano, Yunel Escobar and Kyle Davies for Rocco Baldelli. we shouldnt give up Mike Gonzaleez in this trade he is too valuable.

By bobby

January 17, 2007 07:52 PM | Link to this

JS has lost his cotton picking mind!

By Ray

January 17, 2007 07:54 PM | Link to this

Jay, I hope you are right. Something just doesn’t sound or feel complete yet. As far as giving up some infielders and Davies but I do not want to see them give up Gonzalez.. Soriano that could be a possibilty. Then that would come out like this in a sense, ramariz, davies and an infielder for Rocco. Per speculation here. SO that would net out to HoRam, Davies, Laroache for Rocco and Gonzalez.

By KC

January 17, 2007 07:55 PM | Link to this

Ray, don’t worry man. The Braves did NOT pick up Gonzalez just to ship him off. Sure as hell not for Mekly ^&$%^ Cabrera or any of those rediculous suggestions made in previous weeks.

By Bud Man

January 17, 2007 07:57 PM | Link to this

I hope Time Warner and JS are happy.Time Warner has made certain the Mets will win the east by keeping JS and placing salary limitations on the Braves.He did the rest by making stupid trades that limited his ability to live within the restraints placed on the team and traded away their future.I am done until there both gone.

By Eric

January 17, 2007 07:58 PM | Link to this

It’s possible that JS thinks the same thing I do about LaRoache’s season last year: possible fluke making his trade value higher than ever. I won’t criticize the trade until we know if there’s a 3rd team involved here. Maybe a Rocco-type of player is coming, who knows? Thorman may be capable. I mean, whoever the 1st baseman is, will be hitting 7th. I think with McCann and Francouer, we’re ok at the plate. What about James Jurries? I haven’t read anything about him since his killer spring training last year.

X-factor this season will be starting pitching. If it’s a 6-inning game because we have Gonzalez in the bullpen, we’re in good shape folks. Fret not for 2007.

By Jay W

January 17, 2007 07:59 PM | Link to this

…I’m definitely not saying I’d like to see them deal Gonzalez…only saying that something doesn’t feel complete here???

On another hand, I can’t see how people are blasting making a deal for a guy that hasn’t blown a save in OVER 2 YEARS—and 2 years in which he appeared in over 105 games at that!!!

I know LaRoche had an AWESOME 2nd half, and a pretty good season as a whole when it was all said and done, but it takes quality to get quality…AND…Gonzalez IS quality—PERIOD.

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 08:02 PM | Link to this

OFFICIAL TRADE DONE

BRAVES TRADE ADAM LAROCHIE AND JAMIE ROMAK FOR GONZALEZ AND BRENT LILLBRIDGE

By TLJ

January 17, 2007 08:05 PM | Link to this

It’s being reported the prospect we gave up is Jamie Romak, a right handed hitting outfielder. He is 22 years old, played at Rome, batted 247, 16 HR, 471 slg, and 369 obp. He is projected as a power bat.

It appears the prospects will cancel each other out, making this in essence a straight up deal (Gonzalez for LaRoche).

By todd long

January 17, 2007 08:06 PM | Link to this

It is so funny to see the idiots who wanted Laroche gone at the all star break last year crying now. These people do not know who Gonzalez is. Of course the braves are a bit of a curse to relivers and Mcdowell is a bit scary as a pitching coach seeing how 10 pitchers got injured in his first season. I know that all of them are not his fought, but that is a scary issue to look at.

By Jay W

January 17, 2007 08:06 PM | Link to this

…on another note—Thorman has always been thought of as a better prosect than LaRoche. Think back to last season even: people are much higher on Thorman today than they were on LaRoche at this point last season…anyone care to disagree??? In the end, I like LaRoche—and he DID have a great season and does have a pretty swing and great glove…BUT…would we have an opportunity to keep him longterm anyway? If he turns in a complete 2007 like his 2006 2nd half, the answer is an astounding NO, he’d be too expensive…or he could underperform in 2007 and we’d never get a Gonzalez for him. Either way, in my opinion, we dealt him at the right time—when there was a team with an extreme need, with something GREAT to give in return, and at a time when the ceiling on the player was at its greatest.

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 08:07 PM | Link to this

WOW PIRATES GOT TWO 1ST BASE MAN!! STRANGE

By Barry

January 17, 2007 08:08 PM | Link to this

I think this is a very terrible move. I feel that JS is getting rid of a awesome 1st baseman especially defensively. He has done nothing but progress and get better and poof…he’s gone. What was JS thinking? Yea I know strengthening the buillpen was a must but at what cost? I think this was too much to give up. Who will play 1st now? Scott Thorman could and I know he’s had good numbers in AAA but didn’t do a whole lot when he was called up. We didn’t sign Daryl Ward either and that leaves us very limited in the 1st baseman position unless JS has something else in the works to bring us one.

By Ray

January 17, 2007 08:08 PM | Link to this

Alot of these people that are blasting JS for this deal are the same ones that have always blasting him for not doing anything with the bullpen. Same ones that complained last year about getting an old and fat Wickman. The ol saying,, can’t please everyone. Braves will not hold every lead after the 5th but I sure do like their chances. You think the Mets feel like their 1 year run is coming to an end REAL quick. Did I read correctly that Giles got picked up out in SD causing trouble after the Charger debacle? You know DOB is working the phones. Give us some insight DOB

By Jay W

January 17, 2007 08:09 PM | Link to this

good reporting ROCHIE… per ESPN: The Beaver (Pa.) County Times is reporting that the Braves will also receive minor-league shortstop Brent Lillibridge in the deal, while minor-league outfielder Jamie Romak will be going to Pittsburgh along with LaRoche.

By newton

January 17, 2007 08:09 PM | Link to this

LaRoche is not worth 3 million dollars+ for next season bottom line.

By schroeder

January 17, 2007 08:12 PM | Link to this

retarded.

By jd

January 17, 2007 08:15 PM | Link to this

may or may not be a big deal…braves bullpen may be fine or not-has soriano recovered from the beaning? has gonzalez recovered from the shoulder problem? who knows! will anyone step up on the right side of the infield…thorman, diaz, johnson, aybar all sound like wishful thinking…will we miss rochie? probably not-our lineup can hit…if it’s lillbridge in the deal, remember he has one year of “a” ball-not quite ready for the hall of fame…time will tell, but this raises as many questions as it answers…it strikes me as a deal worth making though…time will tell

By Disciple of Crunk

January 17, 2007 08:18 PM | Link to this

Look, if the Braves can’t afford 3.8 million for 30HR power when every other team in baseball can afford 8 million for a 4.60 ERA pitcher, this team is sunk before the season starts.

Don’t blame the GM, blame the owner.

By Maine Braves fan

January 17, 2007 08:20 PM | Link to this

Well I dont know if I want this young shortstop. I still think that we need to make a trade to get a good leadoff hitter. No matter how good our pitching is if you give up 4 runs and dont have anyone to score than what good is this trade. Lets get A LEADOFF hitter. I do like Mike Gonzales and we have the best bullpen in the NL east.,

By The ATLien Report

January 17, 2007 08:22 PM | Link to this

That trade is as STUPID as they come. The Braves need OFFENSE, not defense & they steadily trade what little offense they have, away, every single year/offseason. If the main focus has been pitching, pitching, pitching, since ‘90-‘91….& if all that freakin’ pitching only brought home one title in SEVENTEEN YEARS…, perhaps it’s time to consider some O-F-F-E-N-S-E for a change??? YA THINK??? By the way…who in da hell is Mike Gonzalez anyway???

By MJ

January 17, 2007 08:23 PM | Link to this

who cares.

By PA Bravefan

January 17, 2007 08:23 PM | Link to this

Lillibridge’s stats do look great!! However, unless he can play 2nd base or is further trade bait, I don’t see him being better than Escobar who he is equal to, and the Braves are definitely not going to have him ahead of Andrus. This might be a precursor of another trade to come. We all know that Tampa Bay is looking for a future shortstop as they were interested in Escobar. Maybe we trade Escobar and keep Lillibridge. This may be one of those trades that we can add up until all is said and done. Lillibridge does have great numbers. He finished at High A in CArolina League. last year and did well. For the year he hit .305 28 doubles, 8 triples, 13 HR, 71 RBI, 53 SB only 18 CS, .419 OBP!!!!, and .899 OPS. Those numbers are a lot better than Escobars numbers at the same levels. I still think we need a solid leadoff man, but i don’t want to give up Salty!! Especially now that we may need a 1st baseman. Lets face it folks, we can get a 1B man anywhere. Potential closers are hard to find. Our bullpennow has an awesome 7,th 8th and 9th inning. If our startes can get through 6 with the lead. I like our chances!!! We will have Gonzalez for 2 more years as well to possible see if he is our closer. He and Soriano will be pitching lights out, to battle for the closers job next year. I say good job JS. Now go get Baldelli!!!

By braves fan

January 17, 2007 08:25 PM | Link to this

Now we dont have a good first baseman or second baseman!!!! We better have got atleast Jose Castillo!

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 08:27 PM | Link to this

SO I GUESS WE GOT A BETTER PROSPECT EXCHANGE. BRENT HAS A GOOD FUTURE.THE GUY WE GAVE AWAY I HAVNT REALLY HEARD MUCH OF. NICE JS

By jcbrave

January 17, 2007 08:32 PM | Link to this

I’m sitting on the fence on this one. While we are upgrading our bullpen, we are also losing an above average fielder. In today’s age, defense tends to be overlooked. Laroche just took to long to reach his full potential offensively, and it may be a while until he does. Hopefully Thorman will show some sort of offensive production to fill the void left by Laroche. I look for Laroche to be an eventual all-star and perennial gold glove winner. On the other hand, Gonzalez should help anchor a bullpen that looks to be on the steady rise. Something like 26 blown saves last year. If we get half of those back we are in the wild card hunt. Only time will tell…..

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 08:33 PM | Link to this

YOUR RIGHT THIS SHOULD BE A “GET BALDELLI BLOG”..WE NOW NEED BALDELLI SOMEHOW…GIVE PROSPECTS SO WHAT WE HAVE A GOOD PITCHING TEAM

By rick

January 17, 2007 08:33 PM | Link to this

THIS MOVE IS BECAUSE…WE DON’T HAVE MONEY!!!!….IT’S NOT BECASUE JS IS AN IDIOT. WE HAVE BEEN WINNING FOR MORE THAN A DECADE W/ JS , HE KNOWS WHAT HE IS DOING, BUT IF HE HAS A MODEST BUDGET , WHAT THE FRONT OFFICE CAN DO?? WHAT WE NEED IF AN OWNER WHO WANTS TO WIN AND W/ DEEP POCKETS!

By Clayton

January 17, 2007 08:37 PM | Link to this

I am stunned. We got pitching when we got Soriano to setup Wickman. There is no way Adam should have been traded for Gonzalez and NOT another impact player, we still have 2nd base, left field and now really downgraded at 1st base. Even with payroll restraints they should have gotten more for Adam.

As a Braves and Bobby Cox fan, this is the most disappointing offseason move that I can think of

By rainman

January 17, 2007 08:37 PM | Link to this

This is a good trade in many ways.For one the braves now have the best bullpin in baseball. I love laroche but he would have hit 7th in the lineup now throman gets his chance.He may not give us the d but he can rake and as i said will only bat 7th. All of you that think this is a bad trade have not seen Gonzalez pitch he destroys hitters he gives us at least 5 guys that can throw 95 mph heat not bad.

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 08:37 PM | Link to this

RICK WE SAVED 1 MILLION THIS WAS NOT A FINANCIAL DECISION . LEARN ABOUT BASEBALL BEFORE YOU TALK!!

By Jay

January 17, 2007 08:39 PM | Link to this

ROCHIE,

Do us all a favor and press the “caps lock” key so that everything you say isnt in caps. Either that or ask LaRoche to leave you some of his add medicine.

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 08:41 PM | Link to this

lol jay….i will miss his add move to 1st base

By Doug

January 17, 2007 08:43 PM | Link to this

I agree with Jimmy … if we do trade one of these pitching aquisitions I would rather it be Soriano. Gonzo is someone we need to hand on to. They guy has got the stuff! I am glad the Braves picked him up. I am excited to see what this pitching staff will do this season!

By THOMAS

January 17, 2007 08:43 PM | Link to this

THANKS ALOT AOL(ALWAYS O LOSER)

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 08:44 PM | Link to this

we need rocco baldelli

we need rocco baldelli

we need rocco baldelli

By Maine Braves fan

January 17, 2007 08:48 PM | Link to this

Lets go out and sign ronnie belliard. I think that we might be able to get him for cheaper. We need A PROVEN second baseman. This trade makes me feel good about our bullpen. Know our starters can go to the seventh inning and then hand to game to the lights out bullpen. I feel good about our pitching rotation. I was impressed with Thorman and I am excited to see what happens. Go Braves and GO NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS. BEAT MANNING AND THE COLTS.

By JCB

January 17, 2007 08:52 PM | Link to this

Thomas Dude, AOL has nothing to do with any of this. The Braves are owned by Time Warner. AOL is a subsidiary of TimeWarner. AOL was dropped from the name a long long time ago. So get it straight, its not AOL, its Time Warner that is doing this

By Vic in El Paso

January 17, 2007 08:55 PM | Link to this

Wow have been a Braves fan since 1966 and this is one of the most stupid moves in all those years. I guess it ranks up there with that trade for the killer closer from the Brewers. We may now have a solid bullpen…but you still have to score runs…! This is exactly why Baseball should step-in and not allow faceless corporations own Baseball teams for tax purposes…next thing you know they will be following the Marlins ownership/management plan. I long for the days when Ted Turner was in control…!

By Wilson

January 17, 2007 08:59 PM | Link to this

Were the complainers in here watching the same LaRoche I watched play for the Braves? He was, without a doubt, my least favorite player on the team. What I saw in him was above average, but by no means great power (of the sort that is a dime a dozen, especially among lanky first basemen…hello, Scott Thorman), a mediocre batting average attributable to terrible plate discipline, average defense, and an infuriating penchant for slack-jawed loafing. Good riddance, Adam LaRoche, and Greetings, best bullpen in the majors. There is precious little long-term offensive dropoff with this trade (and don’t tell me about LaRoche’s second-half hot streak last season, because it was just that, a hot streak from a streaky, unremarkable player), and a significant bullpen upgrade. GREAT move by JS. Those of you who are “done with the Braves” over Adam LaRoche (?!?!?!), you seriously have got to be kidding me.

By TLJ

January 17, 2007 08:59 PM | Link to this

Maybe this trade isn’t as bad as I first thought. I still think we should have gotten more for LaRoche.
This is pretty much the same deal that was mentioned in December. The only difference is each team threw in a prospect, neither is a deal maker or breaker. So why not make the deal in December? What has changed??
Maybe as some have suggested this will lead to another deal.

Perhaps Gonzalez and Davies are going to Tampa for Baldelli. It would bring the Braves a lead off hitter for this season and one that play CF when AJ leaves. This also saves the Braves money, they would no longer have LaRoche’s salary or Gonzalez salary. Baldelli is cheaper than either of them.

In essence this would be a trade of LaRoche and Davies for Baldelli. I think most of you would have approved of that trade it had been proposed earlier. Then what do I know, I’m just a Braves fan that is tired of corporate ownership and tired of this sale lasting for forever.

Where is Mitchell Committee when you need them??????????

By AL Braves Fan

January 17, 2007 09:00 PM | Link to this

OK, Braves Executives. You have dealt the most popular players by sending Giles and LaRoche packing. Hope you can sell tickets with players nobody knows. I have been a life long Braves fan and I am absolutely sick about these changes. I will never pay for tickets in Atlanta again. Hope you are happy.

By 10 badman

January 17, 2007 09:00 PM | Link to this

Roachie, turn the caps lock on so I can easily find someone with some baseball knowledge AND good info

By cly

January 17, 2007 09:00 PM | Link to this

This trade SUCKS…great now we have a good bullpen…in games we lose 9-3 because we can’t score runs.

We’ll never get to the closers because we will have already lost because we can’t score runs. Great…

By 10 badman

January 17, 2007 09:00 PM | Link to this

Roachie, turn the caps lock on so I can easily find someone with some baseball knowledge AND good info

By DB

January 17, 2007 09:04 PM | Link to this

Time-Warner must still be calling the shots — the bottom line means all and let the locality suffer. The Braves have just released a possible Hall of Famer for a nothing and a nothing to be named later. Too bad. It reminds me of how the Griffiths in Washington kept the old Senators afloat for so long — develop the players, trade them for nothings, then raise the prices of tickets so that the populace funds the folly.

By AdirondackDave

January 17, 2007 09:05 PM | Link to this

Ok, if it’s lillibridge and those are his correct numbers, I’m fine with the deal. He looks like a strong prospect chip to deal or free up somebody else. I think JS isn’t done.

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 09:06 PM | Link to this

they would want salty in the rocco trade im sure

By AF

January 17, 2007 09:06 PM | Link to this

I have not been a LaRoche fan since he loafed running the based against Houston in the 05 playoffs, costing us that last game when he got thrown out at the plate. And I was at that game against the Nats at the Ted in May when he loafed covering first base, letting Nick Johnson reach base and drawing Bobby Cox’s ire. So let him go loaf somewhere else.

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 09:07 PM | Link to this

10 badman do you have good knowledge for us or u just gonna talk trash….GO BRAVES

By David

January 17, 2007 09:14 PM | Link to this

I liked Laroche as a player and person but his lally-gaggin around third 2 years ago against Houston still burns me up. Good luck to him and bye.

By Greg

January 17, 2007 09:15 PM | Link to this

Great! We have a world class bullpen. But shaky starters and no hitting. We are screwed! Time Warner is a bunch of cheap bastard and the whole board should die horrible deaths!

By jeff b

January 17, 2007 09:15 PM | Link to this

This trade was horrible. We already have a closer and set-up guy slotted (Wickman and Soriano). What, do we need a 7th inning guy? LaRoche showed his maturity and potential in the 2nd half. He would have been our most dependable hitter for years to come (maybe McCann?). And his pay raise to only 3M barely hurts the payroll. This is a disaster.

By Shocking?

January 17, 2007 09:23 PM | Link to this

Why are you guys surprised? They seem to find a way to get rid of all their good players.

By TLJ

January 17, 2007 09:28 PM | Link to this

Roachie,

After trading LaRoche there is no way I would include Salty in that trade, if Thorman doesn’t out we will need a first baseman. If he does work out his salary will exceed the Braves budget and we would need a first baseman. Since we got that SS prospect from Pittsburg we could add Escobar to the deal.

The Braves really have some good SS prospects. There is Escobar, Elvis Andrus, Chad Fontaine and now this kid Brent Lillibridge. Each level A through AAA will have a legimate propsect.

By Wilson

January 17, 2007 09:30 PM | Link to this

jeff b, you clearly don’t know your baseball, or you’d understand that in today’s big leagues, yes, you DO need a 7th-inning guy. 7 strong from starters is quite different from 6 strong. Furthermore, to describe LaRoche as “dependable” is nothing short of laughable…see Houston ‘05, Nationals ‘06, etc. Moreover, his $3 million salary is on a 1-year deal. If he does continue to develop as a hitter, do you really think it’ll stay that way? Hardly. As for offense…the last time I checked, we still had Chipper & Andruw Jones, Brian McCann, and a fleet of young guys with serious offensive potential (Saltalamacchia, et. al.). Lots of folks on this board are more committed to single players than the Braves. Are we honestly going to talk about Marcus Giles as a lamentable departure? The guy has had ONE outstanding year, followed with the last two, absolutely PUTRID ones! Wake up, folks.

By Wilson

January 17, 2007 09:32 PM | Link to this

john b/jeff b…whatever. The idiocy remains the same.

By thathouguy

January 17, 2007 09:33 PM | Link to this

For the past two seasons we’ve gone into the season with major questions about our bullpen. For the past two seasons, thanks to horrible bullpens, we’ve seen a playoff series end brutally, and our streak of division championships come to an end.

This season we no longer have those questions. As this season starts I look forward to not having that grating, twisting knot in my stomach at the end of games! No Kolb, no Reitsma, instead I get to see Wickman, Soriano, and now, Gonzalez. Now how in the world can we be down about that turnaround?

I think alot folks here seem to have easily gotten over those 32 Blown Saves last year. I for one some hurt left and this trade will allow me to get some closure.

As for the offense, Chipper, Andruw, McCann, Frenchie, Renteria are hardly a weak lineup.

Take away Laroche’s numbers from last year’s total and we still scored plenty of runs!

By 10 badman

January 17, 2007 09:35 PM | Link to this

roachie, my text was meant as a compliment trust me I have been following your insight since this went down. I do hve knowledge and I also know that if it was not for the bullpen, Smoltz would have won the cy young, and if the braves converted 75% of the blown saves, their recoed at the end of the season would have been within 2 games of the mets.

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 09:38 PM | Link to this

WOULD SALTY STOP YOU FROM GETTING ROCCO BALDELLI.. SALTY CANT HELP US NOW HE IS A CATCHER TRYING TO LEARN 1ST. I WOULD HOWEVER LIKE TO KEEP HIM IF WE COULD.

By old coot

January 17, 2007 09:40 PM | Link to this

Maybe if you so called “fans” b*** just a little more, someone will give a crap.

By Adam's Army

January 17, 2007 09:42 PM | Link to this

As the president of the Adam LaRoche fan club, I am appauled by this trade. This is horible. we gave up a great player for a reliever with injury concerns and a minor leaguer. this is ridiculous.

By Drixie

January 17, 2007 09:42 PM | Link to this

Good trade for both teams.

By Wilson

January 17, 2007 09:43 PM | Link to this

Seriously, Rochie…STOP YELLING.

By jsizzle

January 17, 2007 09:44 PM | Link to this

this looks like a pretty good deal to me. with wickman, soriano and gonzalez in the bullpen, the braves are stacked. it shortens the game and puts a lot of pressure on the opposition’s offense to score early and often. both additions throw a lot of k’s on the board and can save games if wick faltes.

bobby and js are both real high on thorman too. with laroche’s value at a peak, js had to pull the trigger here. yeah laroche was a stud down the stretch, but you have to seize the chance to get gonzalez here i think. for what it’s worth this nl east scout thinks laroche is still only a platoon player. with laroche and the x factor at first, the pirates also did well in the trade. though maybe not as well as the braves.

the fact that the braves got another top notch minor league ss tells me js isn’t done dealing yet; he desperately needs to find andruw’s successor. with soriano potentially starting in 2008, the braves can probably afford to send davies or james to tampa for baldelli.

By futurebravesgm2413

January 17, 2007 09:46 PM | Link to this

We also have Kiki Kaluh or w/e his name is as a 1b prospect.

By Jimbo

January 17, 2007 09:46 PM | Link to this

This trade looks good on paper. Thorman should do well at first and this will give him a complete year to grow. And no matter what folks say about Chipper, he is a big positive influence on young hitters. The bullpen looks solid for 07, the starting pitching looks solid for 07, now let’s see what the bats can do. As for LaRoche, wish him well and best wishes in Pittsburg.

By Gene

January 17, 2007 09:47 PM | Link to this

The bullpen looks ok, but what about starters? I could be an ok deal, but I hate to see a strong bat go. At least JS is doing something.

By mike

January 17, 2007 09:49 PM | Link to this

Lets see what we have now. A team being sold on the cheap while the GM attempts to spin ” we will be competitive”. If you had been in a coma for the last year and just woke up you would thing we had one the world series and was dumping pay-roll. Still no left fielder, best center fielder in baseball who in all probability will be traded during spring training ( another reduction in pay-roll) a right fielder who is a flash in the pan. Anybody want to look up his stats agains pitchers with winning records. Promising catcher who is cheap for now but takes a couple of days to get to second base. First base is now with the power hitting Scott Thorman a 174 with 5 homer slugger. Second base we dont know. Allstar shortstop. Zipper Jones at 3rd with declining skills and hefty salary ( He must have pitchers stashed somewhere). I know I will be beating down the door to get my season tickets for our triple A, Atlanta Braves. Only incentive for marketing I can see is for Liberty group to allow a tax credit on your income tax for cost of ticket.

By submariner

January 17, 2007 09:52 PM | Link to this

Who’s going to pick up 32 homers and 90 rbi now? Chipper? Andruw? McCann? They did have a bunch of blown saves last year, but with Wickman and Soriano, they should be able to cut that number in half without giving up Rochie’s offense to get another arm. The Braves already have second base issues and left field, not to mention how many gave will Chipper play at third. No true lead off hitter and now they’ve added a question mark at first. Heck, the starting rotation seems shakey! 2007 will be a long year.

By 6 fan

January 17, 2007 10:01 PM | Link to this

This could be a great deal, we have to wait and see. JS haters, you’re killing me. 15 straight 1st place finishes, not enough. Wow. What would 20 of those 29 blown saves have done for us last year? Exactly. Braves have an outstanding offense coming back, even without subpar Giles and now LaRoche. We’ll score enough, and it’s good to see us have more than a patchwork bullpen, basically for the first time ever. Good job JS —- everybody else, stop the knee jerk reaction and think a little.

By NOW DO ONE MORE

January 17, 2007 10:01 PM | Link to this

Good move! Now, think about actually winning, trade Chunker “Injury” Jones, and make a team people want to pay to see. ATL could be the Yankees……….

By Double J

January 17, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this

When LaRoche hits fifteen HRs and 60rbis, this deal will look good for the braves, so I like it…

By Robert

January 17, 2007 10:12 PM | Link to this

I never liked this trade from the get good. Gonzalez is not that impressive to me. Why? Take one look at his WHIP, this guy puts people on base like nobody’s business. As a reliever, that stinks, it means high pitch counts, long innings for a guy that has a low stamina. Gonzalez is not a good as the Pirates sold him to be. I hope that the minor SS is as good as his minor league numbers seem to indictate, cause if not, we got ripped off.

By Ms. Schuerholz

January 17, 2007 10:13 PM | Link to this

Remember Charles Thomas and Juan Cruz?

No, you don’t.

Two “studs” that we couldn’t give up for Tim Hudson, but we did, and even though Huddy’s not been da bomb yet, nobody even knows if those guys are still in the game.

JS didn’t get where he is without knowing how to buy low and sell high.

Trust, folks.

By Double J

January 17, 2007 10:14 PM | Link to this

(http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news?slug=rotowire-arcusilesnvolvedincu&prov=rotowire&type=fantasy) Now that is why you get rid of Giles.

By andy hines

January 17, 2007 10:18 PM | Link to this

who gives a flip

By John Upde

January 17, 2007 10:18 PM | Link to this

I think they will take Mike Gonzalez and trade him to another team to upgrade in someway. The Red Sox need a closer and I could see them come calling with some of their pitching talent.

By slugger

January 17, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this

As if we needed any more proof that the organization is fixated on the bottom line and not using their creative juices to build a winning team. JS is making the team light in order to sell. Bring back Ted and TBS!!

By 14Straight

January 17, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this

I love this move. LaRoche put up good numbers last year but hasn’t shown to be a particularly clutch hitter. With that long swing of his, he will always be slump prone, and susceptible to quality pitching who can pitch to the holes in his swing.

The Braves have tried the “stock up on mediocrity and pray for lightning in a bottle” approach to the pen for the last 3-4 years, and it finally burned them in ‘06. Glad the lesson has been learned and acted upon.

One thing a GM has to do nowadays is sell when a player’s stock is at it’s peak, and that’s exactly where LaRoche’s is now.

Pitching is paramount. Yes, our offense will suffer slightly and probably won’t replace Laroche’s numbers. But our lineup has a solid dependable core of tough outs in McCann, Andruw, Chipper, and Edgar. Whatever else we get from Frenchy, LF, 2B, and 1B is gravy.

What we’re liable to miss most is LaRoche’s glove, not his bat.

By Ole Man Bourbon

January 17, 2007 10:24 PM | Link to this

.270/20/80 isn’t all that great for a 1B. Not to mention the guy is the ultimate AAAA player, consistently striking out against any decent pitcher. LaRoche can be replaced.

We needed another reliever—now, with a little luck, we will have 2-3 strong arms at the ends of games. Our relieving, without a doubt, was what kept us out of the playoffs last year.

By manny

January 17, 2007 10:28 PM | Link to this

JS can not stick to his guns and get what he was asking for. Why must he continue to be incompetent when dealing from the stronger position in a trade?

By BAMADAWG

January 17, 2007 10:29 PM | Link to this

IT’S EASY TO SEE THE ORGANIZATION AS STOPPED TRYING TO WIN.THE FANS DON,T FILL THE SEATS FOR WHATEVER REASON SO THE CASH AIN’T THERE. THANKS FOR 14 OR SO GREAT SEASONS BUT WE’RE BACK TO THE 80’S

By Mike

January 17, 2007 10:30 PM | Link to this

MORONS. ‘Nuff said.

By Bravesalways

January 17, 2007 10:30 PM | Link to this

Pitching is the name of the game. Yes I agree, but starting pitching. Last time I looked, Maddux and Glavine were no longer 20 and not pitching for the braves. Smoltz is leading a team of losers IMO. These pitchers cant even get out of the 6th inning anymore. Or they dont want to. You want to win, we need pitching and hitting. Our pen was fine now. We did not need that trade. It just took our lineup down to nothing. Strike out king Jones, My boo boo hurts Chipper, no 1st base, Renteria who go whipped by the middle of year, Langerhans who cant hit but can field, and Diaz who can hit but cant field, Thorman who is not proven and not as good even to look at, and then what. Oh yea McCann and Francoeur. Let McCann carry the team, because he will have to. Oh yea and Mr Andruw will not stay healthy this year. He was hurting last year and hobbling around. Give me a break, if you wanted to do what was best for the team, they should have kept LaRoche and said goodby to CHipper and Andruw. Those are the two that hurt the team the most, Stike outs and bench setter. Oh and both will be gone next year. Way to go John, your a jerk.

By 1st and 6

January 17, 2007 10:30 PM | Link to this

People relax why all the complain. Need to wait until the season start. This could be a good move.

By TLJ

January 17, 2007 10:31 PM | Link to this

Earlier post stated anyone who thought trading LaRoche was a salary dump didn’t get it or something to that effect.

Apparently Ed Eagle at MLB.Com and Mark Bowman don’t get it either. Both stated in their MLB report that there could be a financial motivation behind the Braves decision to pull the trigger on the deal. “Mike Gonzalez just signed a 2.35 Mil contract, avoiding arbitration. LaRoche rejected the Braves offer of $ 2.8 Mil and is seeking $ 3.7 Mil.”

That is a savings of over a million dollars. To most teams that is just a drop in the bucket. It’s a lot of mo ney to the Braves.

I do believe money was a part of the reason the Braves were willing to make basically the same trade they rejected in December.

We have a good starting rotation, a very good bullpen and the offense should be at least be average.
Hopefully the Braves will challenge for the division title. I guess we will have to wait and see.

By Josh

January 17, 2007 10:32 PM | Link to this

I cant believe this! This is a terrible trade. We were set with the only lineup that could compete with the New York Mets: (1)- Kelly Johnson (2)- Edgar Renteria (3)- Chipper Jones (4)- Andruw Jones (5)- Brian McCann (6)- Jeff Francoeur (7)- Adam LaRoche (8)- Scott Thorman

We also had enough pitching to compete with the Mets as well. Now the question is will we ever have a lead in the sixth inning to hold?

My guess is no!

By tommy

January 17, 2007 10:39 PM | Link to this

We’ll have to wait and see how this trade plays out. My guess is that we will keep all three new pitchers and get a veteran to platoon (which Bobby is very fond of doing) with Thorman at 1b. If we get another power bat, we can probably say goodbye to a young starter or Salty. Stay tuned! This ain’t done yet.

By 1st and 6

January 17, 2007 10:39 PM | Link to this

The information said that “The Braves plan to turn over first base to Scott Thorman, who was a rookie and hit .234 with five homers in 155 at bats, and .298 with 15 homers for Class AAA Richmond. He’s a cut below LaRoche, but the Braves believe Thorman can hit 20 homers, play solid defense, and continue to improve.” I believe it was a good move. Need to wait…

By rocketman

January 17, 2007 10:40 PM | Link to this

Lots of interesting comments. Been a Braves season tickeyt holder since 91 but luck was on my side and had to move to Detroit last summer and saw an impropable Tiger season. I never liked Laroche’s demeanor but I could say that for half a dozen other Braves players. Nonchalant, lackadaisical etc. Bottom line is JS and Boobie Cox (not a typo) are constrained by a pathetic payroll but they CAN pull it off if they relievers come through. The offense will still be there and they will trade for another bat. If Smoltz gets the backing he’s right up there for Cy Young.

By TLJ

January 17, 2007 10:43 PM | Link to this

I can’t believe anyone would call Charles Thomas or Juan Cruz studs. Thomas was a career minorleague lifer when he was promoted and did a good job as a 4 th outfielder. Cruz was a Cub pitcher who had potential but was unable to capitalize on it. Their season in Atlanta was as good as they were going to be. JS did an outstanding job in obtaining Hudson for them and Dan Meyers.

Thomas is the 4 th outfielder for Oaklands AAA team, Cruz is with Arizonia and Meyers was injured last year and never lived up to his potential.

By Zathras

January 17, 2007 10:44 PM | Link to this

The Braves will regret trading LaRoche, a rapidly improving hitter who played excellent defense.

By BravesfaninMD

January 17, 2007 10:49 PM | Link to this

I like this trade. Laroche was a good fielder and dependable bat when he was hot. But sometimes he could be soooo lazy (who can forget his walking to first base last year and getting beat to the bag), slow ‘round the bases (who can forget the playoff game vs the Astros when he cost us a run with his slow trot from 1st) and he looks might purty when he whiffs at third strikes. I think Thorman is going to be a powerhouse and we now have a stronger bullpen. Plus Laroche was greedy asking for over $3M… serves him right!

By Eric

January 17, 2007 10:51 PM | Link to this

The Braves hit the most home runs in the majors last year and didn’t make the playoffs. Laroche may become a great player, and the Braves may regret ever making this trade 5 years from now, but right now the bigger need was pitching and Gonazlez is a dominant pitcher.

I’m as frustrated as anyone else with the state of the Braves financially, but I think Shuerholtz is doing the best he can with what he has. The biggest problem the Braves have right now is that the have most of their payroll tied up in 7 players. You look at the successful small market teams and the one thing they all have in common is that only one or two guys are making any money, and everyone else on the team are making about the same. The Braves are most definately a mid market team right now and that is shrinking as fast as AOL Time Warner’s stock, so they are at a qunadry. All these deals were made when the Braves had a $100 million + payroll, and now that they don’t, they are forced to get creative and make sacrifices.

Bottom line is that this is not a bad trade, (assuming that Gonzalez is healthy) but it is a byprodcut of the state of the Braves financially. They need new ownership.

By TLJ

January 17, 2007 10:52 PM | Link to this

Ray,

I just looke up Lillibridge numbers and they were very good for this past season. Unfortunately, they were at the A league level and he is 23 years old. He appears to be a legitmate prospect but I’m not sure he will pass Elvis Andrus. Andrus played at the same level and is only 18. Most scouts agree Andrus is the Braves ss of the future. However it is a good problem to have.

By Tim

January 17, 2007 10:55 PM | Link to this

My wife, son, and myself met Adam’s wife and 2 kids at spring training last year, and spent the whole day with them on the hill behind left field at Cracker Jack stadium. We are going to miss Adam for his baseball skills, but we will really miss meeting up with them in Orlando in a couple months. My son got one of Adam’s foul balls and gave it to Drake (Adam’s son). His wife asked for our address, and within 1 week of returning home, we got the baseball back with a signature and a real nice note from Adam.

At the July 4th game this year, we ran into them again during the rain delay, and she invited us to sit with them behind home plate when the game started back up.

To Adam, Jenn, Drake, and Montana, you will be truly missed by our family. Thank you for your time and kind words. Good luck in Pittsburgh, and I’ll be looking for you when the Pirates are in town.

Tim, Brenda, and Dustin Ross

By bobbymahlon

January 17, 2007 10:55 PM | Link to this

I can’t beleive you so called Braves fans. While JS was waiting you cried because he wasn’t doing anything and now that he got his man you are crying again. If Gonzalez pitches like he did last year and Thorman hits 270 with 20 zingers we are way ahead of the game, we will just have to wait and see if Scot can produce if not we will have to put somebody else over there like Jurries,Johnson,Salty or Chipper. As far as Thorman’s defense goes he looked pretty good to me maybe not as good as Laroche last year but good enough to get the job done. Once again Jeff has got to step it up another notch and hit for average this year and he will than become a complete ballplayer. I’m more concerned about second base than first base right now. Don’t worry too much about left field as we can always platoon Langerhans and Diaz.

By Just Bob

January 17, 2007 10:59 PM | Link to this

I thought the football fans here — college and pro — included the most reactionary, numb-skulled folks I’d run across. But after reading some of these blogs I admit to being wrong. Some of the Braves fans represented here are the dumbest in the known universe. And you are also liars. Most of you are indigent morons and are obviously not season-ticket holders. Hell, you can barely afford cable. Have a big time spouting off about things you don’t know jack about but just know that you expose yourselves as ignoramuses when you do so.

By Oregon_Braves

January 17, 2007 11:03 PM | Link to this

Wow, nothing like a little news to get opinions out of people who should never spout them publicly. Mike and Bravesalways (and, really, you could not have a more ironic login name) are the type of griping defeatists that give the rest of us Braves fans such a bad rep around the country. Should we be celebrating that Adam is gone? No, and that is not what is going on. Should we be celebrating the fact that we now have a potentially LIGHTS OUT bullpen? Yes.

By Pamela

January 17, 2007 11:10 PM | Link to this

The Atlanta Fans are complaining that the Falcons should refund money 7-9 but the Braves played minor league ball last year and it seems that this year they are doing the same. How can they charge major league prices with minor league talent. They realllly should apologize to Atlanta at large.

By Braves fan 202

January 17, 2007 11:12 PM | Link to this

Do you tards realize the braves scored the second most runs in the NL last year. Even without laroche they have great hitting. And I know yall hate to hear this but andruw is replacible. Every year schurholtz goes out and gets what we need to win, remember the 14 strait division titles? So know that we have great pitching we should be a favorite in the World Series. This pitching brings back memories of the early 90s. With a healthy Chipper they should be great, and with Francouer maturing power will not be a problem, especially if Thorman can learn to catch up to a fastball. comment back on this fans

By joe brave

January 17, 2007 11:22 PM | Link to this

I like the move for one all those homers added up to 79 wins and home for the winter,You people are so stupid or either know nothing about baseball!say Thorman only hits 20 hr so you lose 12 hr big deal.I personally would rather se a shut down pen than a potetial downturn at 1b from Lazy roach!!!and to the a*******head that thinks giles is quality PAL YOUR NUTS!!!!!!!!SIT BACK AND ENJOY THE POSTSEASON AGAIN OR GO BE A tEXAS rANGERS fan hahahah!!!go J.S ANOTHER GOOD MOVE!and for the moron who thinks the two pitchers acquired so far can walk after this year you don’t $hit either they are both under control for three years !!! IDIOTS!

By Kentavo

January 17, 2007 11:26 PM | Link to this

For those worried about 1B and 2nd base, consider this, we won with these less than steller players manning the posts:

2B - Quilvio Veras, Jeff Treadway, Bret Boone, Mark Lemke, Keith Lockhart

1B - Ryan Klesko, Wally Joyner, Robert Fick, Rico Brogna

Anyhow, Cox loves platooning, and now there’s plenty of options for platooning

2B - K.J., Willie Harris, Chris Woodward, Aybar, Orr

1B - Thorman, Diaz, Jurries and maybe they’ll sign a vet like Phil Nevin

By don

January 17, 2007 11:28 PM | Link to this

The fools got another shortstop prospect- a 23 year old Class A player. Just what we need. If the Braves have future prospects at any position, with Andrus and Escobar, they have shortstops. Dumb. And, in addition to LaRoche, the Braves gave up Romak, a power hitting outfield prospect. Brilliant.

There will be no payroll problems if trades like this continue. There w3ill be no one else of any quality to pay.

By Braves fan 202

January 17, 2007 11:33 PM | Link to this

There is no need to worry about the Atlanta Braves in 2007. The starting pitch is great, Smoltz, Hampton is back, Chuck James who is w/o a doubt the best young gun in the majors. Tim Hudson cant go ne were but up, they will be getting us leads, even w/o laroche the runs will come. Now this killer bullpen will set us up to win ALOT of games. Im happy mets fans i hope u enjoyed your winning season.

By Andy

January 17, 2007 11:35 PM | Link to this

These so called “Braves fans” really p** me off. If you don’t know anything about baseball, please don’t post. I can’t stand it when these idiots call for JS’s job and want to trade Chipper. So fairweather.

By max

January 17, 2007 11:35 PM | Link to this

This Jus On The 1100pm News 1-17..Michael Vick Under Investigation For Drugs At The Miami-Dade Airport..Found In Some Sort Of Secret Compartment..Just More Fuel To The Fire Of His “Thug” Like Appearance..Or..Could It Be The Pressure Of Knowing He Will NEVER “”Get” Bobby P.’s Play Book!!..Or..Knowing Both D.J. Shockley & Matt Shaub Will Beat Him Out For The Position In The Pre Season Drills?? I Mean, Here’s A MoFO Making Millions Of Dollars A Year That Acts Like He’s Still In The GHETTO!!!! As The Saying Goes, You Can Take The MoFo Out Of The Ghetto But You Cant Take The Ghetto Out Of The MoFo..Arthur Blank Are You Listening????

By ROCHIE

January 17, 2007 11:36 PM | Link to this

I LIKE TYPING EVERYTHING WITH MY CAPS LOCK ON!!!! I’M THAT IGNORANT. THOSE WHO DON’T LIKE THE LAROCHE TRADE ARE JUST RACISTS. GO VICK!

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 17, 2007 11:37 PM | Link to this

While I’m not totally sold on this trade, I think there are some drama kings on here. The trade isn’t THAT bad. I have my doubts about Thorman but then again I think this is one move in a master plan. I think another trade could be coming. I said a couple of weeks ago that I thought something big was in the works. I still think back to the article by Will Carroll where he said some big names could be moving.

Now, I wonder if the Braves would flip Gonzales to the D-Backs for Chad Tracy. The Pirates were reportedly discussing a deal with the D-Backs involving Tracy and Gonzales. Tracy is cheaper and younger (not by much) than LaRoche and is arguably as good.

I honestly think this deal is to setup a deal that would get the Braves a leadoff hitter. That reported deal with the Yankees sure seems less like fiction and more like a reality now. Remember the three way deal back right before Christmas. I could see the Braves trading Diaz and Gonzales to the Yanks for Cabrerra and Proctor. I also see the Braves attempting to trade reignite talks with the Rays. Perhaps, offering Gonzales, Escobar, and Salty or Cormier for Baldelli. The Rays could bite. Gonzales would give them a lights out closer and Cormier could immediately go into their rotation.

I could even see the Braves offering Gonzales to the Cubs for Jacque Jones. The Cubs do need a closer. Surely, they are not relying on Kerry Wood and Ryan Demptser. If the Cubs would agree to take some of Jones’ salary it would be a good deal for the Braves.

By Pirates

January 17, 2007 11:43 PM | Link to this

I’m a pirate fan. As I read your comments it makes me sick to my stomach. You low lifes have won for 14 season. a couple of world series and a ring and all of you are ready to ship Bobby Cox out of town. What a bunch of dirtbags.

By Gil

January 17, 2007 11:45 PM | Link to this

I have been anticipating this moment when then trade of Adam whould be announced. He has been the most likly candidate or should I say the most coveted player on the Braves roster by many other teams. Yes, the Braves will miss his bat and his gloove. It have been a long process as Bobby has turned him into a really good first baseman and I suspect he will have a breakout year in Pittsburg. So now we begin again with Thorman, another rookie with great potential and low cost. An added benifit for the current Braves business model. I am not sure the bullpen roster you see is the one we will get, appears too likly another trade is in the works, perhaps even Bob Wickman himself as he is the man making the most money and ony a one year contract. Can go in man directions on that one. Remember folks, it does take a while to fully come back from surgery no matter who you are. Even the great Mike Hampton. I think the ringer in the deal will be the shortstop Lillibridge that was thrown in. He is the sleeper in this deal. The Braves are really disapointed in Pena’s hitting although he can field with the best of them. If he can impress in double A you might see him in Atlanta in 2008. He sure has the wheels.

By Jason

January 18, 2007 12:01 AM | Link to this

It is clear this was a racially influenced decision.

Kidding!

Get a life, losers.

By boom

January 18, 2007 12:01 AM | Link to this

Prediction: Gonzalez-Closer/8th-Soriano-the rest of the bullpen is fine along with the starters. Wickman goes to the Reds since they have NO CLOSER for RYAN FREEL—second baseman and outfielder—leadoff man with speed. Freel is a perfect fit for the Braves. Thorman will do fine at first and wherever Freel plays whether it be 2nd or LF, the other position will be fine too. I think it was a trade to make another trade so they do not have to give up any prospects in either deal. Perfect fit for the Reds too—they have Denorfia for LF and B. Phillips at 2nd and Phillips or Denorfia could lead off for them. Then they get a needed closer which could make them a contender for their division. Again, just a bold prediction by me. Baldelli could still be in the mix too but I would do the Freel trade cause it is a better fit and you do not have to give any prospects.

Even if they keep all three it is a good trade—offensively we will still be good with Jones, Jones, Franceour, McCann, Renteria. The pitching will be lights out with all three relievers and out starting rotation. If I were JS though I would go after Freel because I think Wickman is expendable as his career is down to a year or two and I do not think you need 3 possible closers. The Reds could really use Wicky and we could really use FREEL for out leadoff and outfield woes. FREEL fills four possible voids: 2nd,LF,leadoff hitter, and two to three years of having a leadoff man till Lillibridge is ready. Wicky maybe fills one now. Iam out!!

By Braves fan 202

January 18, 2007 12:03 AM | Link to this

ok every1 stop dissing braves fans. were not red sox fans but we know whats up, just look at all these comments

By Acidboxed

January 18, 2007 12:10 AM | Link to this

Great move agian by JS,i think that this deal really help the braves team as a whole,and this is why,1)they got 7th, 8th and 9th inning LOCK DOWN with Soriano, *Gonzales and Wickman,they all are very good pitchers,2)the STARTERS will only have to worry about throwing 6 innings everday, and thats is a good thing so when late season comes they will be more rested especially for Hampton since we will have to take it easy on him because his coming from Tommy John Surgery,3)We will have 2 great closer options for next season when Wickman maybe retires,4)I know we lost great power at first but it doesn’t matter that much because ADAM was going to hit in the 6 or 7 hole in the lineup anyway and every time you got a chance to trade a 6 or 7 order guy for a standout closer like Gonzales i think you got to do it

By parks

January 18, 2007 12:19 AM | Link to this

Robert, you are normally one of the better posters on here but Gonzales for Jacque Jones? I like the Tracey idea but Jacque Jones?

By Braves fan 202

January 18, 2007 12:27 AM | Link to this

Every one better be at opening day, they would play much better w/ a bigger crowd

By smoltzie

January 18, 2007 12:46 AM | Link to this

Rochie right on. These idiots dont realize js just got us a closer for the future. Also Rochie you blog way to much you need to get laid

By Pirates fan

January 18, 2007 12:51 AM | Link to this

I,m really surprised at the discontent of the Atlanta Braves fans of this trade! How can you dis your GM and Mgr after winning all of those League Championships.They must know something more than the Pirates because wev’e had 13 losing seasons in a row! It finally feels good to me that we got a fair trade. A good hitter for a good pitcher. Something the Yankees,Red Sox,Cubs and Giants have gotten over on us for the past several years!Over time we will see if the other players will be productive! Class A ball players have alot of potential. This shows me that the Atlanta Braves are still a #1 Class A organization and the cream of the crop of National League Baeball Teams. Good Luck to you Braves Fans and hopefully oue Pirates will benifit also!

By GTI

January 18, 2007 01:10 AM | Link to this

Okay, now look at this with ‘07 and ‘08 in mind: Wickman is 38 and Salty is learning 1st base. If age catches up to Wickman, we now have our closer for the next few years ALREADY. And Seriously, Thorman is just going to be keeping 1st base warm until Salty is ready to take over. Yeah, I think LaRoche will be missed. There were times in the 2nd half last year when he really did carry the offensive, but nobody thought of him as irreplaceable until the last 3 months of last season. We traded him while his stock was high and got a reliever that EVERY OTHER TEAM IN BASEBALL was trying to get their hands on. We had one of the top offenses in Baseball last year, and we’ve only lost one main piece (Giles didn’t make enough of a difference last year). IF we can lay our hands on a decent, true lead off hitter to set the table, I think the offense is going to be just fine. And assuming everyone’s health holds up, our entire pitching staff really could be lights out. (compare that to the Mets’ staff right now. See what I mean?) Seems like a lot of room for optimism to me.

By Matt

January 18, 2007 01:29 AM | Link to this

Hey Boom, what are you smokin’ and where can I get some? Or did you get it from Michael Vick? Trade Wickman?! I understand your logic, but why trade away your closer right now for a second baseman? Now, I might be eating my words come Spring Training, but let’s go with what we’ve got, then try to make a trade if we need it. I still think that Diaz is the answer in left. He hit for average (which you need at least one or two of those hitters in the lineup EVERY night to create RBI opporitunities). What I would like to see the Braves do is maybe get someone who could be disruptive on the basepaths. I like this trade some because it’ll look better as the years go by, especially if the kid that we got in as the kick-in becomes a star.

By Joer

January 18, 2007 01:29 AM | Link to this

Acidboxed (what a name) has it exactly right. JS has shortened the game to 6 innings for an excellent though somewhat aging/fragile starting staff. We had some scoring power to deal and we made the very best of it. Everyone has been salivating over Gonzales and JS landed him.

By jay

January 18, 2007 01:29 AM | Link to this

Chuck James is the hottest young pitcher in the game? Since when?

By Braves fan 202

January 18, 2007 01:32 AM | Link to this

Im excited about the 07 season, with the mets age and injury i just hope the phillies arent a big threat. Remember the baby braves, this is their third year now which is the year a player tipically gets a hold of the majors. francouer will strike out less, hopefully fans will be sitting next to me watching them take us to the playoffs. hopefully smoltz will have another year, i am guarenteeing 20 wins. this should be a nice summer for atlanta. The falcons and dawgs have made good adjustments too. soon atla1nta will be a sports power house baby

By Doug

January 18, 2007 01:38 AM | Link to this

Pirates fan,

Unfortunately you are right … lots of Braves fans are very fickly. BC and JS make one of the strongest management teams in the history of baseball. The people here whining and complaining just need to shut it and see what happens. They brought us 14 consecutive championships and a World Series win under their management.

Frankly I am quite surprised at the reactions here. Halfway through the season there were nothing but complaints about LaRoche and nothing but people calling for a trade. Now that he WAS traded (and for one hot commodity BTW) people complain again.

Make up your minds!!! Just sit back and enjoy the Braves for love of the team and the game.

I have been a die hard Braves fan since I was a baby sitting in my Grandmother’s lap and watching them on TBS with her. No matter what trade deals are made and no matter who owns the teams … the Braves are always #1.

By paul

January 18, 2007 01:39 AM | Link to this

This is a great trade. Let’s face it, LaRaoche sealed his fate with his lackadasical play. He doesn’t hustle enough for Cox and first basemen are a dime a dozen. Thorman will fill in fine. And this will give Diaz a chance for more AB’s. And 32 HR’s with 90 RBI’s isnt that great. That means,other than himself, he only knocked in 58 guys over a full season, that’s one every three games. Although, I think we got Gonzalez to ship him to the Yankees for Melky Cabrera to play LF. And finally, yes, Chuck James is a stud. With Hampton coming back our rotation is fine, and the bullpen ain’t giving up anything. Villareal in the 7th, Soriano in the 8th and Wickman slamming the door. That puts us back in the 95-98 win potential.

By Braves fan 202

January 18, 2007 01:41 AM | Link to this

last year was the first year the braves didnt come back from bein down. dont get discouraged when they get down 5 games, cuz they probably will. normally they can beat the mets when they need to and i think that will continue

By schroeder

January 18, 2007 02:00 AM | Link to this

I cant wait to come to Turner Field on July 13th, 14th, and 15th to see my new team The Pirates whip some Braves a*. Someone tell the brass upstairs in the organization thanks for killing another Braves fan.

By Drew

January 18, 2007 02:12 AM | Link to this

My first thought was that this was a bad trade, but after thinking about it, I changed my mind. We get a future closer and a great middle infield prospect. We give up LaRoche, but have Thorman to come in behind him. As someone mentioned, Thorman was viewed higher than LaRoche at the beginning of last year. His defense is a little rough, but the power is definitely there. I also think this opens the door for another trade. We now have a heavy surplus in the bullpen and at shortstop. Escobar and at least 1 reliever(possibly Gonzalez) are probably on the way out in not too long. I think this turns out to be a good deal for us. I think Thorman and Kelly Johnson will be fine, and therefore so will the offense.

By Nelson Hawkins

January 18, 2007 02:15 AM | Link to this

I see some commenters complaining about this being a business decision, but keep in mind, that is merely the way our blogger framed it; perhaps it helps I don’t live anywhere close to the ATL—maybe all the local talkshows are framing that way as well, but I doubt the Braves made a knee-jerk trade to move the long-sought answer at 1B over $900K (or, rather the potential to have to pay LaRoche an additional $900K if they’d lost in arbitration). The Pirates dealt from a position of depth, and the Braves not only cemented their bullpen depth (can’t even see the bottom of that well now, and it seemed bone-dry this time last year), but if the reports are true that they are receiving SS prospect Brent Lillibridge, then they are also adding to their organizational depth at shortstop: rotoworld.com says Lillibridge is (or now, was) Pittsburgh’s best-fielding prospect, and he hit .313 last year. Sure, the Braves are putting a lot on Thorman’s relatively untested shoulders, but me not being a Bobby-hater, I’m sure he’ll a find a way to get this offense cooking with gas, just like he did last year, “without” a leadoff hitter…funny, but I always saw somebody up there batting in the number 1 spot…let’s see, I think it was every game last year.

LaRoche will rake at PNC this year, just check the splits from last year at your favorite website. But is it so awful that this deal is mutually beneficial? After what the Braves did to those poor SOBs in ‘91 and ‘92? Have a little mercy, people; they’re still not gonna contend next year!

By Nelson Hawkins

January 18, 2007 02:19 AM | Link to this

…oh, by the way: the Mets have nothing resembling a starting rotation right now, and don’t know where they’re gonna get one, so unless every arm in their major-league and AAA bullpens channels Mike Marshall and pitches 100 innings this year, or their lineup channels the 1927 Yankees and the 1998 Yankees and scores 2,000 runs…I like our chances real good this year.

By Ty W.

January 18, 2007 02:43 AM | Link to this

Trading your first baseman while you don’t have a second baseman period and your third baseman is having trouble staying in the game is hardly a strikingly good move. Add into that that we have yet to pick a left fielder and our Center fielder is, in all likelihood, leaving next season and the Braves are left with a bit of a predicament.

On the plus side the Braves have a DOMINANT force to fall back on if everyone plays up to snuff in the bullpen, with Gonzalez and Soriano setting up Wickman it will be much easier for Smotlz to sleep this season.

The downside is a VERY noticeable loss of power that will be lingering onward for next season. At the moment, Smoltz, Jones, Wickman, and Soriano are all on one-year deals. Next year will be a PANIC for the team to try to hold things together. Granted half the plan for the team is probably to feel these short-term guys out and try some late-season swapping if things aren’t looking like they’re heading for the World Series.

By Jerald Holcombe

January 18, 2007 03:05 AM | Link to this

I’m actually amazed to hear so many of you complaining about this trade. Might I remind you that since LaRoche has been here, he has yet to be anything resembling consistant at the plate. Sure, he hit better after he started taking the meds, but that can’t be proven to be the reason. Last year, we wouldn’t have won the division anyway, but if we had a decent bullpen, we would’ve at least made the playoffs. Look how many times we were in the lead after the 7th inning, just to lose because we had crap relievers in our bullpen. Schuerholz has done a great job this off-season by taking a real weakness and turning it into a strength. And guess what? He isn’t through yet. He is dealing from strength with a number of excellent prospects that will probably never see the bigs in an Atlanta uniform, such as Escobar and Salty. We need a leadoff man and I’m sure Schuerholz will take care of that need without mortgaging the ranch. I also see Andruw spending one last year in Atlanta and becoming a free agent, at which time, we will have $14 more million bucks under our owner-imposed salary cap to work with. I’m gonna miss the defense that Giles and LaRoche gave us from the right side, but I won’t miss Giles uppercut swing or LaRoche’s nonchalance after one of his many whiffs at the plate. I understand that Kelly Johnson is doing a credible job at second and will be given a chance to compete. This could be a fun year, or it could blow up in our faces again. But it won’t be because Schuerholz isn’t trying. Some of you might wanna think about that a little bit more before hammering a guy for not standing pat with a team that finished below .500 last year. And those of you that are so adamant about saying bye-bye to the Braves and not rooting for them, don’t let the door hit you in the butt on the way out.

By Train Wreck Bystander

January 18, 2007 03:23 AM | Link to this

I like LaRoche - he’s a solid player. Last summer, many of you were screaming that it was time to bench / trade him. Well, you got your wish.

I hate to see him go. But it’s a lot easier to replace a good 1B than it is to find good pitching. The great Braves teams of late were all built around great pitching. Here’s hoping we are a bit closer to that standard.

By Curt

January 18, 2007 03:31 AM | Link to this

The people that are complaining about trading Laroche to need to realize that the Braves now possess three great guys coming out of the bullpen all of which can close. JS we’ll replace Laroche’s production somehow, stop freaking out. He has a plan, just relax.

By Pittsburgh Guy

January 18, 2007 03:32 AM | Link to this

Gonzalez is a gamer. If you fielded an entire team of players that matched his intensity every single game you might never lose. And for how well he made the switch to closer last year, he was even more potent coming in in the middle to late innings a few years back. Either way the Braves use him, they got an exciting young talent that will bleed for your organization. Gonzo will definitely be missed.

While the Braves never ever ever had a chance in hell at getting Chris Duffy (or Andrew McCutchen as the one guy wanted) they did pick up a super stud that is about 2-3 years away from being an everyday shortstop. I don’t know anything about this Romak guy the Pirates picked up in the trade (shoot, I don’t even remember his first name), but I have to believe the Braves stole off the Pirates on that one.

I am pretty jazzed about seeing LaRoche in Black and Gold this year. Al I remember is him getting on base almost every time he was at bat at PNC last year. I hope he can keep that up.

PS - Sid Breem was out!

By Nono

January 18, 2007 03:37 AM | Link to this

Are you kidding? who cares about the Braves Ever since the ‘94 strike and threatened strike in ‘98, I gave up on those spoiled cry babies. I’m glad others enjoy taking their sons and daughters to a game, but it’s a major F^^^ing bore to me. Smell me Glavine—-your a pie hole.

Can you believe Michael Vick and the trouble he is in again? Oh my, this will make twice in the last six months the league has stepped in and fined him. What a douche, and his brother too. Please let Schaub play, Bobby. You don’t see him flipping off Atlanta and smoking marijuanna. No wonder Vick can’t read defenses, he is stonned!!!!

By jed

January 18, 2007 03:43 AM | Link to this

The only thing I can figure is that we’re going to now trade Gonzales. Paul plausibly suggests we’ll deal Gonzales for Melky Cabrera. Essentially, that equates to trading La Roche for Cabrera and Lillibridge. And why lose a productive 1b with great defense only to replace him with a lesser talent in LF? If we move Gonzales, I suspect it’s him plus Davies for Baldelli. Sure hope Hubbard’s working miracles on KJ or we’re gonna be quite porous on the right side…

By Bob Ledbetter

January 18, 2007 03:54 AM | Link to this

No doubt the Braves needed help in the bullpen, but the first base position for many years has instead been one of “who is going to play there today”. The Braves have simply refused to pay the money needed to keep a quality first baseman like LaRoche.

By chuckDofAthens

January 18, 2007 05:14 AM | Link to this

Although ‘Pirates’ may have been a little crass in his post, he’s exactly right. All Bobby Cox and JS have accomplished was to win 14 straight division pennants, and after one losing season we’re ready to give them the boot? The afformentioned run was only the best ever by any American professional sports franchise, and the only constants have been Bobby, Johnny and Smoltzy. I have loved the Braves for all 24 years of my life, but I have to admit that our fans can be some of the most petty and uncommitted in all of baseball. If you want other fans around the league to take you seriously, try showing up for a playoff game. Perhaps the trend of post-season failure has a little to do with the fact that we can’t even manage to sell out our home field. Although the park may be called Turner, let’s not forget that it is unquestionably the house that Bobby built. Try and show a little respect and gratitude for one of the most successful manager/GM tandems in American sports history.

By Gordon

January 18, 2007 05:47 AM | Link to this

24 out of 24 - what was he doing the rest of the year? Let’s hope this great pitcher actually produces for the Braves unlike some of the other great deals we have seen recently. It is just too bad that the Braves are now all about making money instead of winning a series. Ted why did you desert us. At least you wanted to win.

By Bill Heller

January 18, 2007 06:17 AM | Link to this

We’re losing big pieces of the infield and offense but praying that an hoc committee can somehow replace them. Does this remind anyone of how we managed the bullpen last year?

By JohnGTFan

January 18, 2007 06:18 AM | Link to this

I hate to see LaRoche go, but I personally love this trade. We get a young kid that plays SS, can probably be easily converted to 2B, has all the speed in the world, and understands how to run the bases…and we get a dominant lefty in the pen. We now have the most dominating pen in the majors. Do you people not realize what that means. Our starters only have to give 6 innings now. WOW Everyone complaining about Hudson will see his win total jump to around 18 - 22, Smoltz to around the same. We will have 4 guys with AT LEAST 15 wins now.

By Frederick

January 18, 2007 06:24 AM | Link to this

GREAT trade for both teams!

GONZO blows absolute heat, as his strikes are unhittable! Whoosh! AND, his walks will drive ya crazy, as Pittsburgh Guy said above. Buy, man - he did not blow ONE SAVE chance last year. How do ya like them beebies in ‘lanta?

And, as a ‘burger from back in the Clemente days, I LUV getting LaRockin’ from ya! With LaRockin’ sitting between Sanchez and Bay, and Duffy on second and Wilson at first….and Gonzo comin from the pen for ‘lanta…….

By tim

January 18, 2007 06:24 AM | Link to this

dead weight, he will never duplicate what he did this past season. strike while the iron is hot. i would have like to see us get another everyday player but getting Gonzalez and getting him signed to a new contract is outstanding..so La long Rochey

By Jerry L

January 18, 2007 06:35 AM | Link to this

I was going to comment but tim said it for me. He is right on!

By DHD

January 18, 2007 06:43 AM | Link to this

Great move by JS….once again. When you consider that the Braves finished just 4 games worse than the World Champs and will have Wickman/Soriano/Gonzales/Hampton/Boyer/Devine for the whole year, we’re in good shape. I wish that Chipper would make his move to first and Aybar to third.

I have a feeling JS is not done.

By bubbabrave

January 18, 2007 06:44 AM | Link to this

I guess anybody can hit 30 hr, and play firstbase. Nice going Braves, with Wickman and the setup guy traded for H. Ramarize, with Hampton coming back, we should have been fine, but this is overkill. I hope Kelly Johnson is as good at first base as the critics say.

By Dan

January 18, 2007 07:16 AM | Link to this

Tip of the Day: Trade your non-performing players, not your performing players. SHEESH!!!

Who is next, Andruw Jones?

But who knows, maybe we got another Brad Komminsk.

By J Bauer

January 18, 2007 07:26 AM | Link to this

WTF. The only way this trade makes any sense is if the player to be named later is Humberto Cota. That guys is going to be something else.

By alan in marietta

January 18, 2007 07:43 AM | Link to this

I was undecided on buying my weekend package, but i bought it. Now I see i made a mistake….like the Braves did. Can anyone hit the ball anymore that will be there in 2008?

By TLJ

January 18, 2007 07:53 AM | Link to this

I stated in an earlier post that I did not like this trade. However, if they keep Gonzalez I think this was probably a good trade. Let’s face it I doubt they will bring Wickman back next year.

I didn’t mind them trading LaRoche I just felt they should have gotten more for him.

Will this still be a good trade if we ship Gonzalez to TB for Baldelli or the Yankees for Carbera???? I’m afraid this could happen.

This is going to be an interesting year. We will have a new right side of the infield, LF is up in the air and all season everyone will be asking when is AJ going to be traded. If anyone can pull this off it is JS and BC.

By Jay

January 18, 2007 07:54 AM | Link to this

People forget that once we got Reeksma stop playing and Wickman came in our bullpen wasnt a problem. It wasnt a strength, but it wasnt a weakness.

People keep saying that they are reminded of the 90’s teams. Are you on crack? The 90’s teams won because of STARTING pitching. Our best bullpen during that run, the ‘01 team, never was a factor in the playoffs because we never had the lead. And remember Smoltz wanting to start again because he couldnt do anything out of the bullpen? The bullpen is important, but starting pitching is FAR more important. And that is where the Braves lack. Smoltz is old, Hampton is coming off injury, Hudson is mediocre at best, James had a good rookie year but weve seen that from other young pitchers here, havent we(davies, horacio, chen, moss, marques, perez)? Our problem is STILL starting pitching.

We’ll be able to hold a lead, yeah, but the problem will be getting a lead with our depleted offense and overcoming the runs our starters gave up. People want to bag on Giles and say he wasnt a big loss, but take away his poor start and he was solid. And you dont subtract 30 homers and think it wont affect you. Take away that five game spurt right after the all-star break and the braves offense wouldnt be ranked nearly as high. Plus do you honestly think the defense is not going to be worse on the right side of the field with two new players, both very young? How many runs is that going to cost us?

For the people saying “oh, well a good 1st basemen is easy to find”…apparently that hasnt been the case with the braves. We had two good years out of Galaraaga, and about five out of Crime Dog. The rest of the time we had average or worse talent at 1st. “Yeah, but we still won”. You’re right, we won…because of STARTING PITCHING. Last time I checked we dont have three hall of famers in our rotation and a hall of fame pitching coach on the bench.

We should have traded Laroche for starting pitching or a leadoff hitter. There is no way a middle reliever who is third in the bullpen is going to make THAT much of a difference.

By Jay

January 18, 2007 07:54 AM | Link to this

People forget that once we got Reeksma stop playing and Wickman came in our bullpen wasnt a problem. It wasnt a strength, but it wasnt a weakness.

People keep saying that they are reminded of the 90’s teams. Are you on crack? The 90’s teams won because of STARTING pitching. Our best bullpen during that run, the ‘01 team, never was a factor in the playoffs because we never had the lead. And remember Smoltz wanting to start again because he couldnt do anything out of the bullpen? The bullpen is important, but starting pitching is FAR more important. And that is where the Braves lack. Smoltz is old, Hampton is coming off injury, Hudson is mediocre at best, James had a good rookie year but weve seen that from other young pitchers here, havent we(davies, horacio, chen, moss, marques, perez)? Our problem is STILL starting pitching.

We’ll be able to hold a lead, yeah, but the problem will be getting a lead with our depleted offense and overcoming the runs our starters gave up. People want to bag on Giles and say he wasnt a big loss, but take away his poor start and he was solid. And you dont subtract 30 homers and think it wont affect you. Take away that five game spurt right after the all-star break and the braves offense wouldnt be ranked nearly as high. Plus do you honestly think the defense is not going to be worse on the right side of the field with two new players, both very young? How many runs is that going to cost us?

For the people saying “oh, well a good 1st basemen is easy to find”…apparently that hasnt been the case with the braves. We had two good years out of Galaraaga, and about five out of Crime Dog. The rest of the time we had average or worse talent at 1st. “Yeah, but we still won”. You’re right, we won…because of STARTING PITCHING. Last time I checked we dont have three hall of famers in our rotation and a hall of fame pitching coach on the bench.

We should have traded Laroche for starting pitching or a leadoff hitter. There is no way a middle reliever who is third in the bullpen is going to make THAT much of a difference.

By Mark

January 18, 2007 07:55 AM | Link to this

This is a great move. The Braves have a minor league player that can replace LaRoche and now have a very strong bullpin. Now if they can just get some starting pitching to help John Smoltz. I’d trade Chipper for some starting pitching!

By TLJ

January 18, 2007 08:07 AM | Link to this

boom,

That was an interesting post, I thought Gonzalez or Soriano might be traded but had not considered Wickman. The trade basically becomes Wickman and LaRoche for Gonzalez and Freel.

We get a younger closer who we have for at least 2 to 3 years and 2B who can lead off. This would then free KJ to play left field.

Good post man

By MJ

January 18, 2007 08:09 AM | Link to this

The Braves are going down hill quick. Why trade all the good players away and keep Chipper Jones. He’s the first player that needed to be traded. What good is pitching when you can not score any runs. If I was Bobby Cox I would leave too.

By Brian McG

January 18, 2007 08:10 AM | Link to this

Bobby Cox uses his personal better than any one. Don’t look for Mike Gonzalez to be just a setup man. look for Bobby Cox to use Mike Gonzalez & Bob Wickman as a rightly lefty closing combo. We finally got a proven lefty for the bullpen with a three year positive track record. Yes Adam LaRoche has progressed over his short career but only proven himself for the second half of last season.There is no doubt in my mind Jeff Francoeur & Brian McCann have more upside than LaRoche.That being said how many middle of the line up guys can you afford when there price tags go up? Unless of course you are the New York Yankees. I think we will be a better team this year a better team in 3 years and beyond. My only concern would be next year if Andrew Jones & John Smoltz departs. Hats of to our hall a fame GM. For giving us a chance to when now with out sacrificing our future

By Tuckerboy

January 18, 2007 08:19 AM | Link to this

STUPID….STUPID…STUPID…STUPID!

By Brian

January 18, 2007 08:22 AM | Link to this

Atlanta can’t stand to finally have a winning team….The Falcons suck; Hawks….come on…suck….Trashers…lol the fricking Trashers???? Let us have at least 1 winner….COME ON….PLEASE DON”T SCREW UP THE BRAVES….PLEASE

By david

January 18, 2007 08:24 AM | Link to this

This just another attempt to dump salary. How can you give up such an important bat in your lineup that produces RBIs and HRs. The braves will have trouble scoring runs next year. They have already given up a starting lefthanded pitcher for a reliever they got a couple of months ago. Don’t be fooled by what the gm says this is all about reducing the payroll.

By Kenneth Simpson

January 18, 2007 08:28 AM | Link to this

I think the deal stinks. With Andrew leaving after the 2007 season the braves have no long ball hitters left. They have no base stealers either so without someone who can hit homers they are hopeless!

By Daddyball

January 18, 2007 08:31 AM | Link to this

First of all, maybe Bobby uses his “personnel” better???? Lets speak the Queens English if you are going to post anywhere. I disagree with this trade, even though Laroche showed being a lazy goon at times. He is a power middle of the lineup potential star in the making. The Braves havent had a quality 1st basemen since the Crime Dog. Now you have a whole new right side of the infield with this move. One good setup man and one closer is enough for this year, the Braves already had that. After Chipper goes down in mid-May, the Baves better hope for 40 HR out of Francouer and another all star like year out of McCann. Looks like another sub .500 year. Lets say bye bye to the GM.

By marathon Tom

January 18, 2007 08:33 AM | Link to this

Don’t any of you people know enough to trust JS yet? How many years have we been at top of the league?

By Tony Rhoton

January 18, 2007 08:38 AM | Link to this

We need Mr. Blank to get this team fast or we willnever have the money to co-exist in this league. We fans need more. Don’t let A.Jones go also. Help

By KC

January 18, 2007 08:40 AM | Link to this

Brian McG:

I’m not sure if you’re suggesting this, but LaRoche’s salary had absolutely nothing to do with this trade. He only makes about a million more than LaRoche, and the Braves are simply following through on their promise to revamp the pitching staff. If salary had anything to do with this deal, it was more Bob Wickman’s salary than anything else.

Remember, Wickman re-signed very early, before anyone knew just how silly the free agent market would get this year. If the Braves had to try and re-sign Wickman again next year (since he only signed a one-year deal) they would likely have to spend at least 8 million (assuming he’s at least half as good as he was last year as a Brave). Add in LaRoche’s arbitrated salary next season, which is likely to top 5 million… and that’s no less than 12 million to have kept the both of them next season. Gonzalez might make something around 4 million through arbitration next season, but if you do the math… they certainly freed up money to help with their efforts to retain Smoltz and/or AJ. But they were able to do that without, in my opinion, hurting the team’s chances this year. Good stuff!

By JIM

January 18, 2007 08:41 AM | Link to this

Another case where Braves ownership makes a decision based on $. Appears like the owners want a payroll of a certain amount and they don’t care how good the team is. I’m starting to lose interest in the Braves because I don’t believe the owners want a winner.

By fansince66

January 18, 2007 08:44 AM | Link to this

Overall a good move. If Laroche hits .350 with 100 rbis maybe I’ll be proven wrong, but I remember most of his damage being caused when the game was not on the line. In clutch situations we were more likely to see the ho-hum strikeout.

A lefty flamethrower who is backup/heir apparent to Wick is tough to find, and you’re gonna have to give up something.

I liked what I saw last year with Thorman—I think he’s gonna be more clutch than Laroche.

By Clint

January 18, 2007 08:46 AM | Link to this

JS has lost it! He just blinked in a staring contest. This same deal has been on the table for months. Why cave now? We just gave up a middle of the order bat who was just starting to put it all together for a reliever with a limited amount of sucess and an injury history. Fire JS and sell the team to a person; not a cold heartless corporation!

By Jeff R

January 18, 2007 08:48 AM | Link to this

Solid deal, and like a lot of other fans, I believe that JS isn’t done wheeling and dealing. The Braves have a glut of shortstop prospects, and the bullpen is stocked now with quailty relievers. I think it’s more likely that he packages propects (I’d put Davies in that category)than trade vets. Baldelli or Carbera seem the obvious targets, since Andruw Jones will go bye-bye after 2007 (if not sooner), but the new talent mix may open up possibilities for JS that weren’t available previously. Should be an interesting run up to spring training.

By David

January 18, 2007 08:51 AM | Link to this

This is another good move, because Gonzalez is the closer of the future, and to get quality you have to give up quality. Thorman is a step below LaRoche offensively, but we have a good offense. This just ensures we will have a great bullpen this year. Every game might be 3-2, but that is more entertaining than watching us lose 10-9 like we did last year.

By thathouguy

January 18, 2007 08:52 AM | Link to this

If Bobby Cox wanted LaRoche to stay, he would still be here folks. Same for Giles. Bobby tells JS who can go and who stays. That’s why they’ve won together for so many years.

If LaRoche was indispensable as all you critics are saying, he would still be here.

I disagree with Bobby’s on-field moves alot, but I don’t doubt ever that he knows how to put together a team that can win.

By 82DAWG

January 18, 2007 08:58 AM | Link to this

The Braves continue their decline into the category of a small market team. This will be the norm from now on. to see the future of this team, you need only to look at the Milwaukee Brewers. Braves will be lucky to break even next year, most likely 75-87.

By KC

January 18, 2007 09:05 AM | Link to this

Mark: First of all, trading Chipper is not an option. He’s in his mid-30’s now and has been hurt the past 2 seasons. Even if the Braves could trade him without his consent, which they can’t, he would not bring a top-tier starter in return.

Second, the Braves are not in bad shape in rotation at all. Mike Hampton’s return will give a big boost to this rotation. There is a huge difference between returning from Tommy John surgery after 18 months, vs. returning after only 12 months as most pitchers do. HUGE. According to Dr. James Andrews, one of the most well known doctors that perform that surgery, it takes a 18 months (not 12) to FULLY recover from TJ surgery.

There is now a 90% success rate for pitchers coming back from that procedure, and while most struggle at first… almost without exception, those struggles come between the 12-18 month (post-surgery) mark. Dr. Andrew’s describes “success” as a pitcher being at 100% as of the 18 month mark. So when you consider that 90% success rate and the fact that Hampton will pass that 18 month mark in March… you’ve got to like his chances of contributing in a significant way this season.

As for his performance… From the all-star break in 04’ until he went on the DL in 05’, Hampton went 13-2 with a 2.54 ERA for Atlanta. The Braves will be glad to get this guy back. I would look for an adjustment period as he will likely have to shake off some rust, but once he finds his groove, Atlanta will have another top-of-the-rotation starter back in the fold.

Also, I don’t think there are many people in baseball that don’t expect a better season out of Huddy. Last year was the first season in his career, other than his sophomore season (and he won 20 games that year), in which he didn’t finish in the top 15% of MLB starters in ERA. While many classify his 05’ season as “mediocre”, he actually finished with an excellent 3.52 ERA that season, so make no mistake… 2006 was the first and only poor season of his career.

I don’t know what happened last year, but he’s only 30, he’s healthy, and he hasn’t lost any of his stuff. I’m not predicting a CY Young season from him, but I think the chances are excellent that we’ll see a much better showing from him this season.

Chuck James was outstanding for Atlanta last year, and he is widely regarded throughout baseball as the “the real deal”. He’s gonna be a good one for a long time. And remember, we only had the benefit of his services in the rotation for half the season last year. Having him in there from day-one this season will also help the rotation. And lastly, the Braves haven’t given up on Kyle Davies at all. He’s was hurt last year, but the Braves are still big on him. Tremendous stuff, great makeup.

This rotation looks like one of the top 4 or 5 rotations in the league, hands down, heading into the season, and has a chance to be the best in the NL if Hudson and Hampton have solid seasons. Remember also that a dominant bullpen will help the starters. The Braves are in good shape there man… don’t worry about it.

By Ray

January 18, 2007 09:07 AM | Link to this

More I think about it, the more I like the trade. However as suggested a few times, I don’t think this thing is complete. Something else is going to happen. Could be something with Boston for one of their young starters. Per speculation here but something has got to be cooking again. And I have doubted JS before. Even though he has made mistakes, show me a GM that hasn’t, his overall record speaks for itself. And by the way, in the HISTORY of baseball, good pitching has ALWAYS stopped good hitting. And yes I said always. The way it stands now, our starters can go into a game knowing that all they need to do is get 5 or 6 solid innings and you know their confidence level is going to be sky high when they turn over a lead in the 6th and not having to worry about not getting the win.

By Fran

January 18, 2007 09:08 AM | Link to this

This is not a good deal. LaRouch had established himself as a quality hitter being able to hit left handers and right handers. Replacing him means that they need two hitters to replace him . The Braves are slowly slipping to a second rate club. We know that they are not going to negotiate to keep Andrew Jones so next year another major slice form the offense goes.Jones has at least ten good years left.

By Eugene

January 18, 2007 09:10 AM | Link to this

GREAT MOVE!!!! Now if we can get a big bat to protect Andruw and Chipper if he’s healthy we can contend!!! I have faith in Bobby Cox but not in the OWNERSHIP!!!!! GO BRAVES!!!!!!!

By pete

January 18, 2007 09:14 AM | Link to this

What a great trade!!! You people against this trade are the same ones who begged JS to get bullpen help last year. The Braves now have baseball’s best bullpen. All 5 starters will be better because they can all pitch fewer innings. McCay Mcbride will be better for the same reason. They might lose 10 homers at the 1st base position, but they still have Renteria, Chip, Andruw, McCann, and Francouer in the 2-6 spots so the lack of LaRoach will not be a factor. There is nothing worse over the course of a long season than a bad bullpen. Blowing leads and games over and over again is the most frustrating thing to deal with. It has to destroy players mentally. JS fixed this problem big time. To only give up Ramirez and LaRoche for 2 bullpen studs is remarkable. The bottom line is this Braves team will go as far as Hudson and Chipper take them. Hudson has to deliver at the top of the rotation and Chip needs to get back to All Star status in the 3 spot. If this happens, the Braves will win the NL East thanks to the moves by JS. Without the bullpen help, they would have gone into this season with no chance. Now, there is hope. Thanks JS.

By Wade

January 18, 2007 09:15 AM | Link to this

Lillibridge is the key to the deal

He’ll be as good or better a SS as Furcal was, and he might even make the opening day roster!

By Jeff R

January 18, 2007 09:16 AM | Link to this

The Pirates rated Lillibridge (SS) as one of their top five prospects. The guy is considered a solid defensive player, stole 53 bases last season and has some pop in his bat (13 HRs). I don’t know if he hits leadoff, but he has the right stuff.

By Brian McG

January 18, 2007 09:17 AM | Link to this

The Wining formula threw out the 90’s was pitching and defense.last year the braves were 1st in the NL in home runs.2nd in the NL in Runs. 1st in blown saves & near the bottom in team ERA.They finished below 500.Home runs is the blinding stat of the average base ball fan. Home Runs & RBI’s don’t win games alone. surly they don’t win big games. To win big Games you have to have good Pinching, defense plate discipline & clutch hitting. Our skipper & GM know what it takes to win a lot of games. They just took one more step to make this a better team than last year.

By Brian

January 18, 2007 09:20 AM | Link to this

JS had a plan in place, to address a team that led the league in blown saves last year. He has done that by adding 2 proven closers to an outstanding closer in Wickman. Now I think the Braves have options. We could go into the season right now with one of the top bullpens in the league. We will have good starting pitching (fingers crossed) with a pretty good offense. Or JS can turn right around and deal Gonzalez for some help to the young right side. Either way I think every move he had made has been really smart. All the concern about A. Jones can’t really be addressed right now. If he has a good season and the braves look as if they are going to make the playoffs look for JS to work to keep him. If the braves fall out of the playoff race early on I would expect JS to shop AJ around to get something for him before he becomes a free agent. Also don’t forget Smoltz becomes a free agent at the end of this season and as we all want to believe he will resign with the braves. But if he doesn’t that would free up some cash to throw at AJ. So calm down people. I’m sure JS will do everything he can to keep AJ. But just like us at work…we don’t have unlimited money to do our job.

By SouthGaRebel

January 18, 2007 09:23 AM | Link to this

I’m not quite sure if this is a good trade or not, only time will tell. On the surface it looks like the Braves got the better end but I’m looking for LaRoche to have a moster year. On the note of the owners, AOL/Time Warner are the ones dismantling the Braves and they are based in New York so they couldn’t care less about the Braves. How do we make our influence as Braves fans felt? Discontinue your subscriptions to AOL/Time Warner products. I will never have AOL as an ISP again because of what they’ve done to the Braves and I encourage everyone I talk to to switch ISPs. There are other ISPs out there that are just as good as AOL/Time Warner. I think this deal may put the Braves back in the playoffs. They were one or two pitchers/non-injuries away from getting back in this past year and continuing the streak.

By JohnGTFan

January 18, 2007 09:23 AM | Link to this

Jay You bring up some good points, but I don’t think our offense is “depleted”. yeah, we lose production at 1st base, but that’s about it. We still have a lot of production. Losing Giles wasn’t a bad thing, it was a bonus. He was awful. I think Thorman is still very raw, but he is very good defensively. So he’s not going to cost us many runs by his defense. At 2B though, not sure. Giles was good defensively, but more of a liability on offense. Then again, JS very well may flip Gonzalez to the Yankees. And if he does for Cabrera, I’ll be seriously irritated. But all we can do is just wait and see.

By PNC Pal

January 18, 2007 09:24 AM | Link to this

Dear Atlanta, Thanks a ton, oh and especially thanks for taking even less than what was offered two months ago. Love, Pirates Fan

By The Captain

January 18, 2007 09:26 AM | Link to this

DOB, is it possible that JS is setting up another big deal for an outfielder? It just seems strange to me that they would ask for a top shortstop prospect when they’ve been talking about Andrus being the shortstop of the future. Does that mean they’re setting up a deal to either part with Andrus or the new guy?

By jumbo

January 18, 2007 09:28 AM | Link to this

Better hope the pitching this year is outstanding cause we aint gonna score many runs.

By Ray

January 18, 2007 09:30 AM | Link to this

All of you doubters, IF and WHEN this deal pans out positive and the Braves win their division, I would like to see each and every one of you admit you were wrong. I am sure alot of you will say,, oh I knew this was a great deal all along. blah blah blah. Now if this blows up in the Braves face then yes JS messed up. But you are looking at one of the TOP pitching staffs in all of baseball right now. DOB is awol and I am assuming trying to get as much info as possible.

By jumbo

January 18, 2007 09:30 AM | Link to this

Better hope the pitching this year is outstanding cause we aint gonna score many runs.

By Adam

January 18, 2007 09:32 AM | Link to this

I am amazed at the people on this blog that continue to bash JS and Bobby Cox time and time again when times get tough, but do nothing but sing praises when the Braves win 100 games, but loose in the playoffs. You don’t win for 14 consecutive years without have an inkling about what it takes to build a winning team. The fact is, the braves had more than enough offense to win last year, but the pitching (espicially in the bull pin) was horrible. You can never have too much pitching in baseball! Look at how horrible the Cardinals were all last year during the regular season with respect to hitting (except Albert Pujols) but when the post season came, Adam Wainwright and Supan won the title. Another thing to remember is it is ALWAYS easier to aquire hitting over pitching. Who says that once the Braves are confident in their pitching, some excess does not get traded for more bats??!!??

By Duh

January 18, 2007 09:34 AM | Link to this

For all of LaRoche’s “production,” Braves 1Bs were 15th in the NL in OBP and 11th in OPS. He didn’t help the team that much. They can use scrap pieces and be no worse this year than last at that position.

By greg

January 18, 2007 09:35 AM | Link to this

It’s about time they traded that sleep walking piece of crap!!!!

By Jeff R

January 18, 2007 09:38 AM | Link to this

Dear PNC Pal, your Pirates have sucked for the past 14 (yes, 14) seasons. So, maybe you can share your winning formula with us?

JS is returning to a winning formula: pitching and defense. And the old saying is true: “A team never has enough good pitching.” I like LaRouche. I think he’s a quality player, but position players are easier to find or replace than talented pitchers. And I don’t believe JS is finished on the trade front.

By S.L.

January 18, 2007 09:38 AM | Link to this

Will they ever get anyone that can steal a base or two. I think the Braves are the slowest team I’ve seen in the last fifty years.

By navigator

January 18, 2007 09:40 AM | Link to this

Good for good seems to be the conclusion. Besides the Braves have a long history of trading future allstars for nothing. In this case they at least got something in return.

By carol - LaRoche fan

January 18, 2007 09:42 AM | Link to this

I worked with the Braves a couple of seasons ago in security and Adam and his family was a delight to be around. He is a class act and I wish him the very best. I will always be a fan of Adam LaRoche.

By mesmo

January 18, 2007 09:43 AM | Link to this

Soo, now we have two closers (one with a sore arm who will likely need Tommy John surgery soon and the other nearly 40)…and about a dozen other bullpen prospects. But we still have a group of starters who are 40 or getting close so we will need a good bullpen. As for offense, La Roche was the hottest hitter in the league in the second half last year, finally living up to his considerable promise, playing every day, more productive than Chipper or Andruw who cost $25M a year between them.

I can’t believe this trade was motivated to make the Braves better, only to make the payroll lower by a small amount. When will this madness cease? Why not just clean house like the Marlins did and save $60M in payroll? Hey, I’ll bet we could get a half dozen sore arms for McCann. So far the management is not slick enough to achieve the same results with a lower payroll as the Marlins or the A’s.

Twilight time for the glory days of the Braves who have joined the glut of clubs trying to be a .500 team…didn’t make it last year.

By tom

January 18, 2007 09:52 AM | Link to this

More one run losses. With the not great pitching staff, every run is important.

By Slappy McGee

January 18, 2007 09:52 AM | Link to this

This is hilarious. Gee willikers! I didn’t realize that LaRoche’s bat carried the Braves last year! Give me a break. He had 1 decent half season (2 months actually) and suddenly he’s David Ortiz? And why do people think that Andruw, Franceour, McCann, and Chipper will suddenly forget how to hit now that Rochie’s gone?

I wonder how many people saying this is a mistake wanted to burn LaRoche at the stake when Nick Johnson beat him to first on that routine grounder last May? Yeah, I remember hearing and seeing the posts: Trade him! He sucks! Blah blah blah

This is the same guy that hit below .250 for the first half of last year, had two good months, and then disappeared again in September. What short memories people have. You all just look at the ending stats and think he walks on water. This is not an irreplaceable loss. We now have a pretty awesome bullpen and more than enough offense to be competitive in the NL East.

By happy-goodbye-to-LaRoche

January 18, 2007 10:00 AM | Link to this

This is a good trade. On defense, LaRoche’s waltz to first on a sure gimme set the stage for the month of June, which cost the Braves a shot at the playoffs. And on offense, he only started hitting after he got on the meds. Who’s to say MLB won’t outlaw medicine to contral ADD? otherwise, everybody could take it. This trade opens first for Chipper, who might stay healthy at a less strenuous position. And let’s face it, the bullpen was the worst in the majors last year. If the bullpen had been only half as bad, it still would have been the worst, but the Braves would have made the playoffs. LaRoche was a decent ballplayer for one half of one season, but he stank for more than two years. I hardly see the reason for all this gnashing of teeth.

By Adam

January 18, 2007 10:03 AM | Link to this

EXCELLENT MOVE! We get very good LEFT HANDED relief, a Chipper-esque prospect in Lillibridge and save $1m. This is a very good deal. Watch Thorman will put up comparable numbers to LaRoche next year. And to all of those who wanted starting pitching or a big bat - get real. This is Adam LaRoche we’re talking about - there’s no way he could command that price.

By dave

January 18, 2007 10:04 AM | Link to this

Everyone complaining about the Braves being a slow team need to go back and review the players involved in this trade. Atlanta received two players in the deal, not just Gonzalez alone. He’s one super speedy class A shortstop that could easily be converted to playing 2B if he can’t play the position already. And given his age, he’ll be a good long term solution as a lead off hitter once he makes the majors. Hopefully it won’t take him long to get there.

By CK

January 18, 2007 10:16 AM | Link to this

Why all the fuss about Baldelli. He spends more time on the DL list than Chipper and everyone bashes Chipper because of his injuries. I guess you Baldelli supporters really just want Chipper to have company while on the DL.

I for one hope the Braves don’t make that trade. Keep the Bullpen in tact and lets see what the youngsters can do.

By moonie

January 18, 2007 10:17 AM | Link to this

great trade for the Pirates. Gonzo, despite his 24 of 24 in saves, is not a lights out closer. He walks way too many guys for my taste. He’s also a bit of a basket-case on the mound. The Braves will have their hands full with this guy.

Meanwhile the Pirates get a nice looking young power hitter. Perhaphs the next Brian Giles? Good job Littlefield.

By Tony

January 18, 2007 10:18 AM | Link to this

It doesn’t matter who we trade for, or if we brought back Babe Ruth, as long as Bobby Cox is managing this team, we will not win in the playoffs. When is our GM who makes all of these trades going to make the trade that REALLY counts and bring us a manager who knows how to win in the playoffs? Bobby Cox is a great 162 game regular season manager, but then we need to turn the reigns over to someone better.

By dayf

January 18, 2007 10:20 AM | Link to this

Brent Lillibridge bio & stats for anyone who’s interested.

By CL

January 18, 2007 10:21 AM | Link to this

I love the trade. Adam has had one good season and my end up a stud, but what if he had a bad season and we end up with nothing for him. Look at the Padres or the Astros they do it with pitching the way the braves used to. It is time for this young talent to play and show what they can do. People say this is Andrew last year if it is we open up 15mil to sign two good players that will equal his production. The Braves will win with pitching, defense and timely hitting. How many times has Laroche moved runners over from 2nd and 3rd no outs, not many. I love our pitching staff and our defense. In this trade we also got our closer for years to come. Nice trade JS.

By NC Braves fan

January 18, 2007 10:22 AM | Link to this

Has anyone given any thought to Chipper playing first? It would seem he’d have less wear-and-tear on his body there and maybe be less prone to getting hurt.

As for LaRoche, he’s better-than-average hitter, slow as molasses, prone to lapses in concentration and strikeouts with the tying run in scoring position and two outs late in a one-run game and probably as good as he’s going to get. To get a reliever the caliber of Gonzalez for him, to me, is a steal. Add Gonzo to Soriano and Wickman and the Braves have finally shored up the problem that has haunted then since Smoltz moved back into the rotation.

The offense is still potent with the Jones, Frenchy, McCann and Renteria. With Hampton coming back, the rotation figures to be better. Now, the seventh, eighth and ninth innings are finally taken care of. The best part is that if Wickman stars showing his age or doesn’t get the job done, you have two other potential closers already in place and ready to take over.

And with the money that was saved by sending LaRoche away, maybe we can start talking about re-signing Andruw now before he becomes a free agent.

By Bob

January 18, 2007 10:24 AM | Link to this

It is about time LaRoche is gone. LaRoche is La-zy. And his personality didn’t add much to the team’s chemistry. And as far as losing his bat, the bats won’t have to work nearly as hard with good pitching to keep them out of a big hole each game!

By KC

January 18, 2007 10:26 AM | Link to this

“Who’s to say MLB won’t outlaw medicine to control ADD? otherwise, everybody could take it.”

Dude, you don’t have the first damn clue what you’re talking about, do you?

Not everyone needs to take that medication, and the medications that are prescribed for ADD will not help just anyone focus better. That medication only has that effect on people with a certain chemical makeup (“ADD”). For most anyone else, that medication actually has the opposite effect. ADD medications like Ritalin or other Methylphenidate brands are often stolen and sold by drug dealers as “speed”, because that’s the effect it has on most people. That’s why it’s not only a prescription medication, but is also considered a “controlled substance”. It will never be banned by MLB because it is a legitimate medical treatment for what is now universally a global recognized medical condition. These types of medications are in no way a performance enhancing drug. Not even in the slightest.

Oh, and you talk like LaRoche just had a lucky second-half. If you don’t think LaRoche will him 30/100 next year for the Pirates, I wish you lived next door so we could bet a $50 bill, and I could take your money.

By Sox Fan

January 18, 2007 10:36 AM | Link to this

The prospect the Braves are receiving in the deal is said to be Brent Lillibridge, the Pirates #3 rated prospect. The Skinny:Underrated prospect has no real weaknesses in his game. Very good defensive shortstop with above-average range, hands and arm. Solid hitting skills augmented by very high walk rate, surprising pop and excellent base-stealing abilities.

By S.L.

January 18, 2007 10:36 AM | Link to this

I’m sorry, but you got to show me that Kelly can do anything worth being in the lineup on a regular basis. He may surprise me and be a capable 2nd baseman. As for the lead off and left field positions…were they really addressed? Me thinks not. Diaz did good at the plate last year, but looked like Manny in LF. The Braves became a contender when they added defense to go along with good pitching (ie..Raffy and TP). Good pitching is toast without more than capable fielders behind you and defeats your purpose if they aren’t in place.

By Dick Hertz

January 18, 2007 10:37 AM | Link to this

As a Pirate fan…this is what you are getting. A guy who, if he improves slightly, could be a Billy Wagner type closer with a 97-98 mph fastball. The problem? Gonzo has a pretty long history of elbow problems. Pittsburgh killed Atlanta on this trade.

By Chief Knockahoma

January 18, 2007 10:39 AM | Link to this

Listen folks, we needed to move LaRoche. It stacks our bullpen (something everyone has been asking for in recent years), and gives the Bravos some room to work with Andruw’s contract at the end of this season so we can keep him. What did LaRoche ever do to impress anyone? His numbers were extremely average and he wasn’t big in the clutch. Can any of you remember one time when he won a meaningful game for us with his bat or his glove? No? I didn’t think so. But we can all remember when he failed to hustle to cover first base last year when the runner ran right past him. Surely, you remember him striking out all the time. We’ve got a bunch of spoiled fans who are trying to find something, anything to complain about. Get over it. Go Bravos! See y’all in the Chop House.

By S.L.

January 18, 2007 10:41 AM | Link to this

Deja Vu or Vuja De all over again. Maybe we strike gold a second time. Didn’t Raffy come to us from the Pirates? 2007….near worst… to first? Wishful thinking huh?

By FEARTHETURTLE

January 18, 2007 10:42 AM | Link to this

I just saw Salty trade his catchers mit for a first basemans glove. The new Braves first baseman Jarrod Saltamacchia

By JBK

January 18, 2007 10:42 AM | Link to this

===personally would rather se a shut down pen than a potetial downturn at 1b from Lazy roach!!!and to the a*head that thinks giles is quality PAL YOUR NUTS!!!!!!!!SIT BACK AND ENJOY THE POSTSEASON AGAIN OR GO BE A tEXAS rANGERS fan hahahah!!!go J.S ANOTHER GOOD MOVE!and for the moron who thinks the two pitchers acquired so far can walk after this year you don’t $hit either they are both under control for three years !!! IDIOTS!===

Were you a Mets fan before moving down south?

By LEE

January 18, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this

GET REAL AND SELL ATLANTA BRAVES TO LOCAL PEOPLE THAT WILL SPEND A DOLLAR OR TWO TO BRING A TEAM THAT WILL WIN……….THE TRADE STINKS………….

By KC

January 18, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this

happy-goodbye-to-LaRoche:

Also… LaRoche starting hitting when he finally got a chance to play every day, which also happened to be when he started taking ADD medication. But his success had MUCH more to do with the former than the latter.

By laurance maney

January 18, 2007 10:45 AM | Link to this

Like all trades it’s a good one if it works. LaRoche could certainly hit and had some great moves at first at times, yet with a six-inning starting rotation the bullpen and good infield defense, which the minor league kid brings, is the priority. Andruw will have no one hitting behind him but he never has had that luxury except for his one year batting second (his best all around offensive year, by the way) and if the Liberty deal goes through Andruw won’t be back anyway. What all you disgruntled crackers should truly be worried about is the Time Warner/Liberty deal. Get up, go to your windows and yell: “I’m mad as hell and I don’t want to take it anymore…”

By happy-goodbye-to-LaRoche

January 18, 2007 10:46 AM | Link to this

You know KC, you’re right. I wasn’t thinking. MLB does a great job of controlling controlled substances. How foolish I was to make mention of “focus enhancing” drugs. Now that I know you have to have a prescription from a real doctor to get them, there’s no way around that air-tight policy. And if you’re wiling to bet $50 on LaRoche, I wish I lived next to you. I’d take a lot more than $50 from you.

By KC

January 18, 2007 10:46 AM | Link to this

Sox Fan:

Red or White?

What brings a Sox fan to the Braves forum. You’re more than welcome to be here… glad to have you. Just curious.

By Sandman

January 18, 2007 10:47 AM | Link to this

Stupid move. I give the homeboy upstairs a “F” on this one.”hey we got a solid fielder here who puts up solid numbers at first base that people are comparing to todd helton. best numbers since Mcgriff and Galaraga and he’s pretty cheap. LETS TRADE HIM BEFORE HE GETS BETTER!” Ryan Klesko all over again. The pen was already shaping up without the trade. Big Wick, Soriano, Sturtze, Boyer, Mcbride, Chad “the beast” Paronto, and Yates or Villareal. looks like we could have done without and gave some players a chance. but thats just my opinion, hopefully thorman can handle it. maybe Langy can boost his hittin this year…or maybe…sign trot nixon.

By Ray

January 18, 2007 10:47 AM | Link to this

NC,, Chipper cannot and will not play first. It is more wear and tear on the body at first than third. Alot more moving around at first than third. Harder on the body and the feet.

By ernesto

January 18, 2007 10:49 AM | Link to this

Hey, where’d the right side of our infield go?

We may have a stacked pen, but who’s going to give them the lead to protect? I hope JS has something up his sleeve offensively b/c we’re looking a little anemic now. Thorman and K.Johnson replacing Giles/Laroche, only time will tell, but I’m worried.

By ernesto

January 18, 2007 10:50 AM | Link to this

You trade a guy who will get in maybe every 3 days for an inning for an every day guy who puts up bona fide numbers and has a big upside. The more I think about it the less I think of this trade. Bad move.

By Tom

January 18, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this

Pittsburgh is one of the stupider organizations in baseball, but they got the better of this trade. I understand that “business is business”, but first base has been a black hole for the Braves for quite some time; and now that they’ve developed a guy who has a slick glove and emerging power, they ship him off for a reliever. Oh, well…I’m excited to see what Thorman will do with his chance…provided Cox lets him hit against the lefties.

By Dave Littlefield

January 18, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this

I think the trade I made makes sense for both teams. For the first time in my life, I made a trade that makes a little bit of sense. Considering how stupid I am, I think it’s a pretty good trade for the Pirates

By Nate

January 18, 2007 10:59 AM | Link to this

LaRoche was by far the best hitter on the team in the second half last year. His numbers in 2007 are gonna be more of the same. Gonzales is a great closer, probably better than Wickman, but we don’t need two closers. With Chipper hurt half the season and no production at RF, 2B or 1B we’ve got no pop. And after Andruw is gone….. I don’t even want tot think about it.

By Brad

January 18, 2007 11:01 AM | Link to this

Great move, first baseman who hit 30 homerun’s are a dime a dozen, left handed releivers that throw 96mph are hard to find…once again our GM is head and shoulders above anyone else!

By Ray

January 18, 2007 11:03 AM | Link to this

ernesto, as far as your comments about the right side of the infield. It will not take much of an effort for Johnson or a platoon to surpass the numbers that Giles put up this past year (improvement) Thorman will not be too far behind Laroche. Maybe 12 homers less and 20 rbi’s less. (slight down grade) Overall from the right side it will come real close of producing what it did last year.

By Pirate Fan

January 18, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this

Now that I see who the second player involved was - I love this trade even more for the Pirates. We got our left-handed, power hitting first baseman, and didn’t have to give up another major league ready player other than Gonzalez to get him.

It will be funny to see how some of you react once you see Gonzo pitch. 24 saves in 24 attempts is good - no doubt…but he never takes the easy way to get there. He’s the type that has to put a couple runners on before he can get an out and close out a game. 31 walks and 42 hits in 54 inning pitched? Ouch.

It’s one thing when he walked the first couple of hitters in the 9th, then worked his way out and got the save…but is that really going to work as a setup man? Do you want your setup man walking the first two batters in the 8th inning? Good luck with that…

Then throw in the fact that he missed the last month of the season last year with elbow problems and I think the Pirates were very fortunate to move him and get an All Star caliber player back in return.

By Drew

January 18, 2007 11:06 AM | Link to this

Ok, here is a new, crazy idea: With 3 great bullpen guys, and several very respectable guys backing them up: Boyer, McBride, Villareal, etc., I say lets go with a 4 man rotation with Cormier as a swingman. This allows us to trade Davies, then use Harrison or Lerew next year when Wickman leaves. The starters are only aiming for 6 innings, so they won’t be as stressed. I know this sounds crazy, but we can use Cormier and Villareal when someone needs an extra day off or gets injured. Its unprecedented, but I think it makes a little sense.

By Duane

January 18, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

I am a Pirate season ticket holder (beleive it or not they do exist) and I have read enough. JS made a good deal. I know you gave up a good ball player, but you are going to love Gonzalez. He has great stuff, he is lefthanded and he throws 95 (for real). A lot of teams have tried to get him the last three years. His stuff is more electric than any of the four young starters we have. Just because he played in Pittsburgh doesn’t mean he is not good. You will get comfortable with him real fast - and his arm is healthy. Lillibridge is also a good player and should be in Atlanta in a couple of years.

By Steve

January 18, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

I love LaRoche, but I think pitching is where it is at. Besides, the Braves scored enough runs to win. That was not the problem.

But the thing I want to complain about is this long BBS! I can’t read all the comments. Just too long! Can AJC do something about it? Maybe take the most relevant comments out of the bunch? You can leave this link for refrence, but just have a balanced summary. I think this will be the trend!

By Kerry

January 18, 2007 11:10 AM | Link to this

I cannot believe all the complaining on here. It seems to me that JS is in a no win situation. If he does not improve the pitching then he is an idiot. Then when he makes the trade he is an idiot. The man has an incredible track record with trades. A year ago there was complaining about turning the full time 1B duties over to Laroche. Just let JS do his job and put this roster together…By the way, who says he is through making moves!

By KC

January 18, 2007 11:10 AM | Link to this

Dick Hertz: I don’t see how he would have to improve in the slightest to be on par with Wagner. 24 saves in 24 opportunities is a better closing ratio than Wagner or anyone else in baseball with 20-plus saves posted last season.

Better ERA than Wagner too.

Congrats on landing LaRoche. He’s a great player. I think everyone will be happy with this trade.

By Randy Graham

January 18, 2007 11:12 AM | Link to this

* Everybody Should Just Relax* Scott Thorman will give you your 20 homers . All happening is the way it should be. The Braves scouting staff signed Scott , He developes from rookie ball up through the minors to playing every day in the BIGS. It Takes 6 years to do this and if everybody followed the minor leagues also they would also realize that this is just part of the baseball business, they way it should evolve. If Scott Thorman is allowed to play everyday he will show results look at his stats since rookie ball. We have a way better bullpen now , maybe one of the best starting pitching staff , and great hitters. So just relat and enjoy the season. Go Braves Go!!!!

By Steve

January 18, 2007 11:16 AM | Link to this

Oh, only thing I am worried about is the one-year deal. If Gonzalez is so good, I think I would have offered him a longer contract. Having said that, I think this deal makes sense.

By Zippy

January 18, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this

Thanks Atlanta!

We Pirate fans are pretty sick of sucking after 14 years of losing seasons. Thanks for throwing us a bone. We hate to see Gonzo go, but hopefully the trade will work for both of us. Thanks for throwing us a bone.

By ReRon-NJ

January 18, 2007 11:20 AM | Link to this

As a Braves fan in the Philly area, my friends would like to thank John Scheurholz for the newfound ability to compare the Braves management to that of the Flyers. Thanks, John, I’m now a fan of the AAAA Braves…

By Buzz

January 18, 2007 11:20 AM | Link to this

It’s great the Braves are strengthing the bullpen because they will need all the help they can get since they won’t be able to score any runs!

By John Schurholtz

January 18, 2007 11:21 AM | Link to this

Hi, Has anyone seen my head? Oh yea there it is. IN MY @$$!!!!!!!!

By Chad

January 18, 2007 11:25 AM | Link to this

JS has a plan. Always has, always will. He is the best GM in baseball. Period. Bobby Cox has earned the right to stay here as long as he wants. All of you calling for his head on a platter need to remember the players play the game (referring to his playoff record) maybe some blame should be put on them as well? I think this trade is a good one. LaRoche is a good young talent but he hasn’t proved himself as an all-star. He may turn into one but who knows? We needed bullpen help and we got it. It’s as simple as that. To get good players you need to give good players. As far as Gonzales elbow, I’m sure the braves medical staff was happy with what they saw otherwise I can’t see this deal being done. The prospect we received was probably Pittsburg’s best IF prospect as well. We are loaded at SS but maybe there is some other trade in the works? I respect everyone’s opinion, I just wanted to offer mine. Keep posting I love reading what everyone thinks.

By KC

January 18, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this

Pirate Fan: You are apparently cut from the same mold as those here who are saying things like “good riddance! LaRoche isn’t all that good. He just had a good second half. He was just lucky!”

I’m sure Mike Gonzalez is not perfect. Nor is LaRoche. But they’re both excellent players. Spin Gonzalez however you want, but 24 of 24 and a 2.17 ERA can only be spun so much. Same with those who keep trying to minimize LaRoche’s production. Sooner or later, you have to quit trying to explain away the numbers, and except reality.

By Maurice

January 18, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

I didn’t like the trade at first but we still have CJ, AJ, Francoer, Renteria, and a catcher that’s freaking phenomenal. The Braves had a top 10 scoring average last year, but a bottom tier bullpen. We’ll be okay.

By ernesto

January 18, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this

Ray, Marcus had a down year last year, but he was a clutch hitter. I don’t think anyone’s expecting him to have another down year this year. And nobody hopes more than I do that Thorman is withint the zip code of Adam’s productivity, but we’re not going to know that until they play the games. I’m just saying I don’t feel as good about this team as I did before the trade.

By Cox Sucks

January 18, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this

It’s time for Bobby Cox to go. He’s a wife-beater and a washed up coach. He’s nothing without Leo.

By Jonathan

January 18, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this

After being p** off and having a night to sleep on this trade, i’ve changed my mind. Over the last 3 years, LaRoche really had one really good half which was last fall. Other than that, he’s been average or slightly above. I think most of us were upset because his most recent performance is fresh on our minds. Good move JS…thats why you are GM and we aren’t!

By wg

January 18, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this

This is nuts. With AJ moving on next year, how are we going to replace the potential loss of 225 to 250 RBIs in 2008? JS short changed himself by not getting Duffy in the deal. If either Hudson or Hampton (or both) have off years, all the bullpen help in the world won’t stop the bleeding. For the first time in a long time, I am about to through in the towel before the season starts.

By ljparent

January 18, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this

It’s pitching and defense stupid. You saw what happened last year without twirlers. I like this move, especially the young SS, who could be the man to replace Edgar. It also frees us to trade our other good SS prospects, if need be. Also if all this does not work out, we will have relievers galore to trade prior to the summer trading deadline, a rather hot commodity that time of year, with great prospects coming in return.

By Pirate Fan

January 18, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this

Not really spinning anything. 31 walks and 42 hits in 54 innings pitched. That’s not good…no spin needed. Last year was Gonzo’s first year as a closer. The first year he was really asked to carry the load for the bullpen. His 54 innings pitched were a career high for him, and his arm wore down in August….and it’s not the first time he’s had injury problems. He missed over 50 games in 2005 with knee problems.

He can easily be replaced with Torres or Capps in Pittsburgh, and we don’t really miss much at all.

However, adding LaRoche is huge. For the first time, the Pirates actually have some protection in the lineup for Jason Bay - other than Reggie Sanders, Jeromy Burnitz, Joe Randa, Benito Santiago, Craig Wilson or any of the other countless spares they have tried to plug in. The Pirates finally have a cleanup hitter…a power-hitting left handed bat in the lineup. With Freddy Sanchez, Jason Bay and Adam LaRoche - that’s one of the better heart of the order lineups in the league.

Huge victory for the Pirates in this deal.

By Glen

January 18, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this

JS is no fool. He wouldn’t trade LaRoche unless he & BC were CERTAIN Thorman and/or Salty were ready to step up and that Gonzalez is healthy.

Last year everybody complained that the bullpen was the weakness. Now that it’s been shored up, people complain about how JS did it. Some people were born to complain and point out the negatives.

If we’d won half last year’s blown saves, we’d have been in contention.

By Warner

January 18, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

Bring on Thorman! He’s got some pop, and I’m anxious to see what he can do.

Sure, LaRoche will be missed, but the bullpen needs to get shored up before we can contend.

By lisa

January 18, 2007 12:05 PM | Link to this

yep it was a good one

By Ray

January 18, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this

JS is looking ahead - when Wickman retires in 2008, Gonzalez can take over. The SS prospect that we got is not too shabby either. Clearly, the Braves think LaRoche is not going to get any better and might regress this year. Whether this happens remain to be seen. Now, let’s just hope that Thor is ready for the bigger role.

By Brac

January 18, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this

JS got the best Lefthanded closer besides Wagner out there, he has one of the best AL setup men in Soriano, & a vetern closer in Wickman that if he pithes like he did last season w/ Atl, then the game got really short for Smoltz who will last longer thru the season, Hudson & Hampton can get more confidence and become dominant again, James & Davies has no pressure as young pitchers…this sounds like a very smart move. Now need Thorman & 2nd basemen to step up. Thorman has already been compared to a Ryan Klesko and when the Braves were dominant, they never had a strong 2nd baseman.

By Jonathan

January 18, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this

Come on guys, we all know that is more difficult to find a good pitcher than a good hitter, good pitchers are over power or good hitters, do not forget that the 1990s were just pithing. Our weakness las year was the bullpen, just look the mets with that offense and we scored more runs. Believe me this team will be fine from now to the future. About Baldelli, he will be a Brave in 2007 how? well we need to change Kyle Davies & Ryan Largerhangs and some prospect class C. With that move we will solve the lead off and left field.

K. johson & R. Baldelli will do a better job than laroche and giles offensibly, so in that case our runs lost on laroche traded it solve.

Remember JS made that deal thinking in R. Baldelli .

By Ray

January 18, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this

If Gonzalez lives up to his billing and remain healthy (second part is harder than the first), then we would have a great bargaining chip next year with a relatively cheap potential closer candidate in either him or Soriano. Of course, people in baseball might wake up and realize that valuing a reliever (even a closer) that high is a mistake.

By Randy Graham

January 18, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this

I,m With You Bring Thorman on I have followed his career and He is ready Now!!!

By BBuckaroo

January 18, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this

It’s going to be a long dull summer Atlanta Braves fans. And if you think this summer will be bad it’s going to be worse in 2008 when the Braves let Andruw Jones walk.

By shortino

January 18, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this

I like this trade. Everyone will miss LaRoche’s potential. No doubt. And I’m curious to see how the right side of the infield will look on defense (as someone pointed out earlier, it’s necessary for the pitching to be truly effective). I think the offense will be fine IF a viable leadoff man can be identified. I think getting a leadoff man with a little bit better OBP than giles (.341 last year) and getting Frenchy to take a freaking pitch (to get on base more than 29% of the time — ouch!) can mitigate the probable drop in production to Thormon at 1st.

But the most important stat to remember here is 29 blown saves. 29 blown saves! We missed the wildcard by 9.5 games (if I remember correctly). If you can really find lefty relievers (we only had 1 in mcbride remember!) like Gonzalez hanging around AA then why wouldn’t we have done that last year when the pen was really poor? Ridiculous logic from many posts here. In this move the Braves solidified its most glaring weakness. And if they’re all healthy, it may become the greatest strength.

With that in mind, the health of Gonzalez will be the measure of this trade. (Side note: Are there still worries about Soriano’s health and apparent drop in velocity in winter ball?) A solid bullpen will give the Braves a shot before Andruw walks. And I think it’s worth it.

By Dave

January 18, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this

This Trade is a good move, Gonzalez will be aprox. $1Mil Cheaper than LaRoche which can go into offense. We got a Prospect who can batted .305 with 50 stolen bases in A ball and we can stop upgrading the pen and move to the lineup. our 2-6 Spots are good with Edgar,Chipper,Andruw,Brian, and Jeff now we just need a LF with Power or Speed. We’ve had worse Offenses in the past, now we got that pitching back though.

By Jason (PA)

January 18, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this

im from pittsburgh. i think the deal is fair. but for everyone that keeps talking up lillibridge like he is the next barry larkin, hold on. just because he is listed as the pirates 4th best hitting/fielding prospect, is misleading. the pirates have hardly any hitting prospects in the minors, due to bad drafts/development or whatever, but that leads to the high ranking and he was sorta old (23) for a single A prospect. He coudl turn out to be a stud, but just kinda want to temper everyones enthusiasm, and it should probably be focused on the player that will help the braves now, mike gonzalez.

By Shane

January 18, 2007 12:35 PM | Link to this

Well done. JS did it again! The creepy posters calling for his head are closeted Mets fans. Pitching not hitting, morons. What part of the 14 year run did you not get? Once again Braves fans should say a prayer asking that JS keeps his home address in GA.

By Greg O.

January 18, 2007 12:36 PM | Link to this

Good deal for the Braves. They give up a good player to get a good player, but Gonzalez is a better fit for the Braves. They obviously didn’t have the arms within the system to make it work last year, but I think they’ve got enough of a stop-gap at 1st in Thorman so that the loss of LaRoche won’t hurt that much. And I say stop-gap because it’s fairly clear that JS is clearing the way for Saltalamacchia to become the team’s every day 1st baseman in 2008. And with the acquisition of Lillibridge, and Elvis Andrus developing, don’t be surprised if Yunel Escobar is dangled in a future deal, maybe some kind of package deal for Rocco Baldelli or a deadline deal for whatever is the position of need this coming midseason.

By Versage

January 18, 2007 12:39 PM | Link to this

We scored more runs than the Mets last year and they still KILLED us in wins. Their Starters were not that great either. So, why did they win again? BULLPEN. They were able to nail down pratically every late inning lead they had. Hell, they had more one run wins than anyone in the league last year… why? BULLPEN!

The Braves scored the second most runs, but also had 29 blown saves! So, which would have been more important? Scoring those runs? Or Converting those saves? Exactly. If we’d have had the trio in the bullpen last year we would have at least won the wild card. With or without Laroches 90 RBIs.

By Harry

January 18, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this

I live about 65 miles from Pittsburgh and am a big Pirate fan. While you guys have been winning for 14 years, we’ve been losing for 14 years. (Don’t even remind me about the ‘92 playoffs — I’m still seeing a shink because of that.)

In any case, we in Pirateland are thrilled to get LaRoche; he’s exactly what we need. On the other hand, Mike Gonzalez is something else. I really hate to see hime go. He can be just overpowering at times, and has a nasty slider to go along with the 95-96 mph heat. Hopefully (for Braves fans) he will be in the closer roll sooner than later. When he comes in to finish a game the enthusiasm he brings to the mound and the excitement he creates in the crowd is unbelievable.

Let’s see…the Braves had 29 blown saves last year, and Gonzalez was 24 for 24 in save situations…according to my calculations that should have been enough to put you guys over the top.

By CZ from PGH

January 18, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

I just wanted to say thanks guys…a lefty with power playing in PNC. This doesn’t make up for Cabrera but it was a nice gesture.

By BUCCO FAN

January 18, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

You Braves fans are hilarious. You just got ripped off big-time. Mike Gonzalez is not “lights out”, he puts runners on every time out. Also, he has arm issues and missed the last 2 months of last season. For those who thought you were getting young studs Chris Duffy or Paul Maholm, are you nuts? Try A ss Brent Lillibridge who never had a shot as long as Jack Wilson was here. We got a proven hitter with better stats than Carlos Delgado, to protect the best young hitter in the game (Jason Bay) and batting champion Freddy Sanchez. The Pirates, with their glut of young talented arms, just became a contender in the central division. You thought you were getting Chris Duffy?? This has to be the most lopsided trade I have ever seen. We are getting a good laugh up here in the ‘burgh. Short porch in RF at PNC park + Laroche = 45 HR and 125 RBI. Thanks.

By Andy

January 18, 2007 01:04 PM | Link to this

Honestly, if yaal DIDNT think Laroche was going to be traded last year - with Salty that can be moved to firstbase by being blocked by McCann, and having a better upside that Adam - you must not have been paying attention. The Braves KNOW that Andruw is the cornerstone player in their defense, AND the reason for our good pitching (mediocre becomes good, good becomes GREAT). They will figure out a way to keep him. Our bullpen is sick now. Yes we have unproven players on the right side of the infield, but if JS thinks Thorman is ready (and I do too) he will play. The Braves have excellent scouts, and you shouldnt take for granted 14+ years of experience that the Braves scouts have.

By wg

January 18, 2007 01:09 PM | Link to this

Hey Jonathan, you are already penciling in Johnson at 2nd (no experience) and Baldelli. When did we make that trade? Get with the program, if you can’t score runs all the bullpen help in the world won’t win you games.

By sportsman

January 18, 2007 01:10 PM | Link to this

This is a good trade for the Braves. I don’t know for certain if the Braves have the best bullpen in the NL now, but there definately aren’t many teams with as much depth as the Braves now have. LaRoche is definately replaceable. If the Braves are in the penant race in August, it will be a lot easier at that time to work a deal for a firstbaseman than it would be to pick up a good reliever if they needed one, which now isn’t a concern.

Another plus about adding another quality reliever that no one has mentioned is that it takes the load off your starters. True the Braves starters aren’t as dominant as in the past, but they’re still pretty good (many teams would take our rotation). However last year, especially when the Braves were trying to get back into the wild card race, every time Smoltz started they felt like he had to go 8-9 innings. He had a heavy load. This year he won’t have to do that, and he will be much more rested at the end of the year and be more ready for the playoffs if we get in.

I hope the Braves stand pat with the relievers and work on signing a serviceable firstbaseman (maybe Nevin, Tony Clark, or Dmitri Young) if they’re available and the money is right. Second base can also be worked out, although I find it suspiscious Aybar is not being mentioned more prominantly as the starting 2nd baseman. Having Chris Woodward as a utility infielder is also a plus, he’s a good bat off the bench. I would also continue to talk to TB for Baldelli if they will bite on any combination of Cormier/Diaz/Aybar/Yates/Devine. I don’t think they’ll do that though. Regardless, I think the Braves are definately improved for ‘07.

By Jerald Holcombe

January 18, 2007 01:12 PM | Link to this

I sure hope that most of you have jobs that you are good at because baseball knowledge has alluded you. I honestly feel sorry for DOB that he has to weed through these blogs in an effort to find one person with a little common sense about baseball. Let’s see if I can explain a few things to you so that you can stopped beating the proverbial “dead horse”. First, there are 3 players that can’t be traded without their consent (Chipper, Andruw, and Smoltz). None of these players are gonna wave that right. Next, there is no point in moving Chipper to first now because he’s our best option at 3rd base now with Marte and Betemit gone. Aybar is not the answer at 3rd. And someone mentioned that Thorman was a good defensive 1st baseman. Nope, that’s a negative. He’s barely serviceable. Someone else mentioned that Mazzone would be a hall of fame pitching coach. I can’t swear to it, but I’d bet money that there isn’t 1 pitching coach in the hall now on that merit alone.

By Versage

January 18, 2007 01:19 PM | Link to this

So, without LaRoche the Braves can’t score runs? Sorry, but some of you are blowing this WAY out of purportion. Didi many of you forget that Laroche hit 240 with 9 homers before july? And then you also probably remember him slowing down a lot in September…right? LaRoche wasn’t the biggest bat in our order, and no way does him leaving = “The braves can’t score runs now!!”

The guy has a lot of pop and if he stays on the meds he may be more consistant, but, that’s really up in the air at this point. We traded an average player that was GREAT for two months out of three years for a Bull pen arm that has been great for 3 solid years….

And on top of that, if Thorman hits 270, 20 H, 70 RBIs, we wont be missing much. And even then, Braves fans should get sick to their stomachs everytime the 7th inning rolls around anymore now.

By olereb

January 18, 2007 01:20 PM | Link to this

Dear Bucco, We too are laughing, the true Braves Fan know that we just did a number on yaw. Adam Laroche is just not a B Cox man, why do you think you got him? Simple, Bobby let him go. A man that has won that many championships knows what chemistry means to a club. Adam and Marcus just did not fit in. I am not saying they were two bad people, if you met them in person, Adam that is, you would say this is a good person, a good man. Now, you could not say that about Marcus Giles, first of all, he would not give you the time of the day. You got Adam Laroch because, Bobby Cox let you have him. At the end of the day yaw will still be in last place with a first baseman that only plays against righthanders, who is a good man, and we will be in the playoffs again. Are you still laughing Bucco?

By Jay

January 18, 2007 01:20 PM | Link to this

Hey BUCCO FAN…

I don’t care .02 about Lillibridge, but saying that Jack Wilson was holding him back is a smoke and mirrors ploy…YES, Wilson is holding him back, but it isn’t Wilson’s talent holding him back, it IS Wilson’s RIDICULOUSLY FAT CONTRACT that is holding Lillibridge back!

On another note, YES, LaRoche could go for 45/125, but I think a more realistic goal would be 30/100—which would be a great season for a 2nd full year player. BUT…I’ll give the 30/100 for a guy that has been PERFECT in save situations over the past 2+ years, sports an opponent BA against of < .210, an ERA < 2.25, and a VERY SOLID WHIP of 1.22 (Smotlz only has a career WHIP .05 lower than that) despite your claim that he always puts runners on.

See my next post for more on Thorman…

By Versage

January 18, 2007 01:22 PM | Link to this

Another thing, it’s hilarious that last June, Braves fans were demanding LaRoches head…then he get hot for a couple months… no he’s one of the best players ever to play the game…. and losing him means the braves offence is no horrid…

By Jay W.

January 18, 2007 01:23 PM | Link to this

actually ,the just above post by ‘Jay’ was me also…

Here is the THORMAN vs. LaRoche post that was promised:

Consistenty, level by level, they are virtually the same player. 5 year totals for each:

Adam .287/.353/.801 Scottie .273/.339/.782

Let’s look at their age 23 seasons that they each split between AA and AAA.

Adam hit .290 with 20 HR, 33 2B, 1 3B, 61 BB, 110 SO Scottie hit .293 with 21 HR, 31 2B, 5 3B, 37 BB, 118 SO

So they’re basically the same player. The walk rate, which for their careers is similar, is more in LaRoche’s favor by this point. Scottie hit more triples, for what it’s worth, and grounded into 6 double plays to Adam’s 12, so he’s a little faster.

Why have 2 identical players who have blocked each others’ progress all the way up the ladder for 3+ seasons when you can trade 1 for a PROVEN ALL-STAR RELIEVER???

Come on guys…anybody want to prove this post wrong???

Is this still a trade worth crying over???

Please…prove it wrong!!!

By Pitching Coach

January 18, 2007 01:24 PM | Link to this

Some of you people are nuts. LaRoche was AWFUL. (Now if we had his brother it would be a little different.) I say the Bravos should dump a few more. I’m pretty sure it’s about time to show Ole Chipper to the door. Shoot, I’d trade him for two lolipops and a pack of Big League Chew. I’ve been true to the Braves since 1980, but I’m getting real close to becoming a Red Sox fan. Seems like baseball in Boston is more legit. This is just clowing around down here.

By Olereb

January 18, 2007 01:28 PM | Link to this

Thank you Gerald, I can not beleive some of these people. Bobby Cox is the greatest manager in baseball, and some of these idiots think he needs to be fired. When Bobby and John retire that will be the end of our winning, as for me, I expect us to be int playoffs again, it sure the heck will not be the Mets with their Triple A Pitching.

By TLJ

January 18, 2007 01:28 PM | Link to this

After sleeping on it I’ve decided this is not a bad trade for the Braves. I think it benefits both clubs but I think the Pirates got the best of the deal. We had already improved the bullpen and it wasn’t a problem. Gonzalez takes a good bullpen and makes it an excellent bullpen. I keep hearing about 29 blown saves most of those were before we acquired Wickman. He was 18 out of 19 in the save department. Again Gonzalez was a good acquistion but not necessary. The Braves will see the benefit of this trade in 2008 when Wickman is no longer on the team.

I think Thorman will do okay on the offensive side but he will probably struggle on the defensive side. I agree Salty will probably take over a 1B in a year or two.

I keep hearing about Davies, Escobar and others for Baldelli from TB. Guys that is not going to happen. TB is in the driver’s seat, they know we need a CF and their need is pitching. They have made it prefectly clear they will only trade him for SP with experience. They are actually looking for 2 of them. They do not consider Davies, Legrew, or Cromier to be in that mix.

The only way you are going to get Baldelli is adding James or possibly Gonzalez to the trade. I do think JS might offer Gonzalez in a trade to TB with Escobar, Davies and Salty for Baldelli. This would not give them the 2 SP but would give them a lights out closer, a # 5 starter, infield dept and a catching prospect with power. They might go for that.

You still have a good bullpen, a lead off hitter and CF when AJ leaves.

By old fart 63

January 18, 2007 01:30 PM | Link to this

LaRoche was brain dead.

By bedsheet

January 18, 2007 01:31 PM | Link to this

I think its a little early for everyone to get all upset about this move. I think the real goal for JS is in Tampa and his name is Baldelli. Tampa wants pitching and the Braves have not been willing to part with any of their young guns, but why have 3 pitchers who could close? Trade one of them to Tampa for Baldelli. You have yourself a great left fielder who can hit leadoff and replace AJ when he leaves next year. I think this is a great move and leaves open a number of options for JS.

By Shane

January 18, 2007 01:33 PM | Link to this

Amen Versage. Post 7th inning Maalox sessions should be on the decrease.

By bubba j

January 18, 2007 01:35 PM | Link to this

Yay!

It was about time that they did this… come on Atlanta, LaRoche wasn’t that good anyway. Let’s face it. We need pitching… with Soriano and Gonzalez, the Braves have done a decent job at upgrading their bullpen. I bet LaRoche doesn’t hit anywhere near 30 homeruns next year… he’ll probably have somewhere between 15 and 18.
Good job braves!

By Loafer

January 18, 2007 01:37 PM | Link to this

Great trade JS!! The reason LaRoche had a good year was 1. protected by the Jones’ 2. contract year. He’ll revert back to .250 next year for sure. Our young guys proved that youth is good. It’s more exciting anyway. We now have arguably the best pitching staff in the east. I’m hearing playoffs bells again and just bought my season opener tickets!!

By Ray

January 18, 2007 01:43 PM | Link to this

The bottom line is this: Is the current team better than last years team going into spring training. YES quite simply it is. Starters are healthy. Bullpen is a ton better. Offense is not changed that much. Johnson will not have much trouble at least duplicating what Giles did in ‘06. The first base position will produce fairly close to what Laroche produced. 20-22 hr’s. 70-75 rbi’s. So again the bottom line is looking back last years team at this time of the year and looking at this years team, which would you rather have? Me, This years team No doubt.

By Just Lookin

January 18, 2007 01:46 PM | Link to this

When did we start making exits in the first round instead of at least going to the second round of the playoffs? Well I think you can see it was in the early part of this decade when the pitching became a bit more suspect. There was that exception year when the Giants put us out when we had the best pen in baseball….. but Sheff died in in the playoffs and so did Glavine.

I used to cry about the Braves not scoring tons of runs in the nineties when they were going to the WS pretty often. I said that if they could ever become an offensive juggernaut, the World Series dynasty would begin!! Well we got Sheff and Vinny and the Big Cat and other assorted characters and started lighting up the scoreboard in the early part of this century. Our pitching began showing some cracks and the offense kinda died in the postseason so we couldn’t even get past the first round!!

I’ve been to the mountain top! I’ve seen the offense kick butt! Now I’m reformed. Good pitching will get you in contention every year. Great offense doesn’t guarantee squat! (Look at Texas over the years)

If the young guys can mature and continue to produce…..AND someone can come in at second and first and produce at least a bit….and….Huddy and Hampton could come back…..and Smoltz can continue to be effective…. this team could look like some of the teams from the nineties.

Of course if I had 5 more numbers from last nights Powerball…. I would be a multimillionaire today. lol

One more thing I keep hearing here that is a bit of a misrepresentation of the situation is that we are loosing 30 HRs and 90 RBI from the lineup. The only way we lose 30 and 90 is if Roachies replacements hits no HRs or drives in no runs! If Thorman can hit 20 HR and drive in 70, the difference or the 20 ribbies and 10 HR could be made up by a collection of other players increasing their output.

On the other hand…. if you aren’t giving up 8 runs a game….. you don’t have to score 10…. so the offensive production doesn’t necessarily have to match last years to win! In fact…. with all of our offense this year…. look where we finished!

By Pittsburgh Guy

January 18, 2007 01:52 PM | Link to this

“Bucco Fan” - You cannot be serious thinking Jack Wilson is the reason this kid was part of the trade!!! Lillibridge was part of the trade because Littlefield is a moron and Schurholz exploited him. Wilson had one good offensive year, and last year he was a defensive liability.

And to call us a contender!!! Are you nuts??? We still have 25 young arms that have never been coached properly and our only veteran arm is Shawn Chacon. We have all the tools to be a .500 team this year, though. I’ll take that.

PS - when was the last time Littlefield actually got the better end of a trade on purpose? He settled for both Freddy Sanchez (He wanted that RP Lyons) and Jason Bay (he wanted Xavier Nady) when they were brought to town. I wouldn’t be so excited about this trade until you actually see what Littlefield just gave up.

By cheesehead chris

January 18, 2007 01:57 PM | Link to this

Rochie Turn off the caps lock!! I really enjoy this blog as a general room, but the virtual screaming is just rude.

By wyman bundrick

January 18, 2007 02:00 PM | Link to this

Glad to see “Cockroach: go. How could anyone ever forget his lackluster performance on fielding a grounder hit to him at first base and then allowing the batter to leg it out and beat him to the bag. His follow through on a MISSED pitch made me think he was posing for a photo for Sports Illustrated with style and grace.

By Robert

January 18, 2007 02:06 PM | Link to this

Good deal! ‘Pen now has Soriano, Wickman and Gonzalez?! There are going to be some good relievers left in the minors now (Devine, Lerew, etc) and there are plenty of starters with the right 1 thru 5 still to be determined.

LF: Johnson, Langerhans, Diaz - one will step up 2B: Johnson, Aybar, Prado, Escobar - one will step up 1B: Thorman + maybe Craig Wilson? : Platoon it!

Braves in ‘07 looking awfully good!

By Jason (PA)

January 18, 2007 02:06 PM | Link to this

im from pittsburgh. i think the deal is fair. but for everyone that keeps talking up lillibridge like he is the next barry larkin, hold on. just because he is listed as the pirates 4th best hitting/fielding prospect, is misleading. the pirates have hardly any hitting prospects in the minors, due to bad drafts/development or whatever, but that leads to the high ranking and he was sorta old (23) for a single A prospect. He coudl turn out to be a stud, but just kinda want to temper everyones enthusiasm, and it should probably be focused on the player that will help the braves now, mike gonzalez.

By Robert

January 18, 2007 02:12 PM | Link to this

The reason the Braves never won in the playoffs was bad OBP and no relief pitching. It was all HR hitters and starters. Get some guys that will get on base (like Aybar!) in the lineup.

Worse comes to worse, if the Braves are out of contention, the other teams will be killing for relievers, and the Braves can get a gold mine in return!

By A-Town Nakahoma

January 18, 2007 02:15 PM | Link to this

Enough! We lost Rochy who had one good Half a year. Does everybody forget that he was mediocre at best for 2 other years. Yeah, you Pittsburgh fans and your organization sure pulled one over on us. You got a guy who had 1 good year out of 3.

As everybody else with any common sense has been saying, we have not lost 30 homers and 100 rbi’s. We have at most lost 10 homers and 10-20 rbi’s and thats only if Rochy had a career year once again.

I find it amazing that everybody is willing to say (crying) we lost Rochy. Big whoop! Who is to say he will ever have another career year like that again. NEWS FLASH —— NEWS FLASH —— He is not a team changing player.

Everyone complains about blowing leads and now they want to complain about how we have lost 10 homers and 10 to 20 rbi’s. Everyone on this post who has wrote this crap should be a PITTSBURGH fan as there punishment. :)

By markfromalbany

January 18, 2007 02:15 PM | Link to this

The second player in the deal is Brent Lillibridge (sp). He may be the “steal” of the deal. Last year, he stoled 53 bases at a high percentage. He plays 2nd base and projects as the 10 to 15 best prospects by PECOTA’s baseball prospectus. He’s minor league statistics are comparable to Rafael Furcal. Due to his build, he won’t hit for much power but certainly will be a base stealing threat as a lead off hitter. I like the deal.

By Robert

January 18, 2007 02:24 PM | Link to this

One other thing:

JS SOLD HIGH ON LAROCHE!

He might have a few years in the ballpark of ‘06, but never consistently. I was sick of his windmill swing and his posing when he struck out once a game.

Good riddance LaRoche, Welcome Gonzalez.

By Jeff R

January 18, 2007 02:25 PM | Link to this

The Pirates front office has been a disaster, but LaRoche won’t disappoint. A healthy Gonzalez can really bring it, and these days, a lot of pitchers don’t come into their own until they hit their 30s.

Lillibridge might not be the next Larkin, but given his rep, he has a chance to be a very solid major league player.

Got to believe JS is cooking up a deal involving prospects, given the glut at SS.

By bravesredsoxfan91

January 18, 2007 02:27 PM | Link to this

I’m pretty sure that a baseball teams needs a first and second baseman and right now, the braves have neither. I know that they needed pitching but the team doesn’t need three closers! LaRoche brought a good bat and now he is gone. I don’t know what to expect anymore. Why don’t they just ruin the whole team and send Andruw Jones to Boston! After a not so good season, the Braves really should’ve kept one of the good bats. We have a good closer in Wickman. Hopefully the team can pull through. I was hoping to meet LaRoche when they came to Boston too.

By scott

January 18, 2007 02:29 PM | Link to this

the reality of today’s MLB is that no trade is going to be lauded by everybody because no trade can be that one-sided. You ALWAYS have to give up something valuable to get the same.

LaRoche is an up-and-comer with EXCEPTIONAL defensive skills. Would’ve have been great to keep that. Offensively, his approach at the plate won’t bring you consistency. He only gave the Bravos 1/2 a season of a good performance - opposing pitchers WILL figure him out, and his offensive production will likely not be spectacular.

However, Gonzales WILL likely be spectacular for years to come. We needed bullpen help. Smoltz won the Cy Young last year with ANY help.

Everybody’s moaning about losing LaRoche, but who ever heard of him 3 years ago? Any reason Thorman, Salty, or someone in the minors now OR someone we trade for can’t get the job done? Although we know some of this move was for payroll concerns, you also have to know that the Braves have a better handle on talent than fans do.

In these days of big money and free agency, all rosters are very fluid. Andruw Jones has given us many great years, but he’s GONE after this coming season. Those who scream to trade him now in order to GET SOMETHING IN RETURN are dead wrong. Trying to trade him narrows the field of willing/able trade partners and then we’re limited in who we might get in return that the other team is willing to give up. Let’s keep him for his “contract year” which you know will be monster because he’ll be playing for his big contract. When he’s gone after ‘07, we’ll get a draft pick (no big deal) BUT we don’t find ourselves empty-handed….we get $13 million of salary space opened up. And we can then go after whoever is a free agent to fill the spots that we’ll have…much better scenario for the team short and long term.

Back to LaRoche - we’ll miss him, but you gotta make this move. Closing out games is the key to improving this team.

By Jordy

January 18, 2007 02:32 PM | Link to this

Am I hearing this correctly? I know Laroche put up 30 dingers but jeez he was cold a good 3/4 of the season. Just because he was lights out at the end of the year doesn’t prove that his numbers were necessary to the club.

By matt

January 18, 2007 02:41 PM | Link to this

Yes this strengthens our bullpen but you just traded our biggest stick other than AJ and he’s gone after this year. Chipper hasn’t been healthy in years. Hell, LaRoche was only 25 and had a sweet swing, solid glove, and great power. He’s had a couple of mental errors but he’s still young. He’ll win a gold glove one day, maybe several. In my opinion we made our offense weaker by making our bullpen stronger.

By Dave

January 18, 2007 02:55 PM | Link to this

i can see the Braves dealin the SS we just got.

By mike graham

January 18, 2007 03:00 PM | Link to this

good deal on roach, just a half season stats don’t deserve a big raise. go ahead and swap davies for balldelli if they don’t get duffy. what a 2nd. base? i think the bull pen is set along with starting pitching

By Rickstra

January 18, 2007 03:05 PM | Link to this

Great trade …..Super bullpen and team now! Laroche was expendable. This has been planned for a long time, along with letting Giles walk away. If Thorman is at first, K.Johnson at second with Chipper Jones at third, you have three #1 draft picks in the infield. Thorman # 1, 30 overall in 2000, Johnson #1, 38th overall 2000 and Chipper, #1, 1st overall in 1990. Add Francouer #1 in 2002, McCann our #2 in 2002 and even Langerhans was a #3 pick in 1998 and you have already made a huge investment in signing bonuses when these guys signed. That’s why they have the talent and they are getting the nod to start. If you don’t understand the overhaul John Shurholz has made to this team with minimum interuption over the last two seasons, you don’t understand the genius that he is. GO BRAVES!

By quint

January 18, 2007 03:05 PM | Link to this

You guys need to get off of Chipper. Give me a break. He is a winner. Like him or not, he is one of the best switch hitters in the league and may one day be considered one of the best ever. His defense is not attrocious, though it could stand some improvement. His health has become an issue, but there is no way you can say that he isn’t a good value at third.

Laroche was a great-fielding first baseman and after starting the ADD meds his play solidified at first. I will miss that. I was surprised that Bobby let him hit against lefties. Remember how he wanted to platoon all of his younger first basemen? With the exception of Galaraga and McGriff, he had had to have two players to fill that spot until Laroche showed he could handle lefties and righties. I know we need bullpen help, but I though that is what Soriano and Wickman were. Are we going to try to get a closer-type guy for the seventh, eighth, and ninth innings? Is that what we have now? I wish “Homeboy Upstairs” would have traded a few minor leaguers for some established help at second base (if that could have been done with the salary issues).

Well, I just can’t wait to see some baseball and I hope the glory days will be returning to Atlanta. (Along with the fans)

By brac

January 18, 2007 03:09 PM | Link to this

Let’s see, Best Bullpen in Majors with B+ starting rotation that can be higher?? Hummmmm…sounds like to me many teams won’t be scoring many runs, which means the Braves won’t have to either which takes pressure off hitters. When there is no pressure on hitters…equals better hitting. Oh yeah don’t forget if there is a heathy Boyer & Sturtze, this turns out to be a vetern nasty bullpen.

By manuel

January 18, 2007 03:17 PM | Link to this

I cannot believe that people can be upset at a deal that gives us the best bullpen in baseball, from the worst last year. not only we lost games last year, in the ninth, we lost them in the 8th, then in the 7th, and even in the 6th. you have a lefty that can take care of Bonds, Beltran, Delgado, Howard, etc and give us some peace. Those guys killed our right handers last year.
Thorman will be a very good 7th place hitters, and he may even be one of the most productive ones in the majors that late in the lineup. mention who the oposition has hitting seventh, and you will see we are better, except from some american league lineups. Ex Mets have Valentin???, Phills had their rookie catcher, etc. Come on, cheer up.

By King of the Braves

January 18, 2007 03:19 PM | Link to this

To all of you that think this was a bad deal don’t know Baseball very well. First of all Mike Gonzalez was 24 for 24 in save opportunity’s last year and we would have one of the best bullpens in Baseball, last year you were all screaming we needed a better bullpen and now when we get that you all CRY and I mean cry about who we had to give up to get it. Second of all from what I am reading this is going to be a very short stop for Mike Gonzalez because we are going to trade him again to an unknown team, most likely in my opion it will be the Yankees for an Outfielder and possible a releif pitcher. So to all the WINNIERS get a life, there is a reason you don’t run a Baseball team, because you would not know how!!!!!!!!!!!

By Black Knight

January 18, 2007 03:27 PM | Link to this

It seems to me that with the bullpen shored up pretty deep with the BIG THREE (Wick, Sor, Gonz), someone else is probably on the trading block. Not really sure who would be there, but my hunch is saying that its Langerhans, Diaz, and/or a couple of prospects. The plan may be to trade two or three of those for a 2B or LF powerhitter. Anyone know who else might be on the trading block?

By Braves fan 202

January 18, 2007 03:38 PM | Link to this

i love this move, i cannot waqit until 07 season. we will win atleast 90 games, we can still score the runs and los bravos should win yet another title. We might get through the first round also are starting pitchers wont be tired at the end of the season. just wait mets, the braves are back in buisness

By Carroll

January 18, 2007 03:38 PM | Link to this

I think some of you may be underestimating the significance of improving the bullpen. I know it hurts to lose ROachy (and I din’t even like him that much) but think back to last year and ALL the blown saves…think of the pain and rage you felt on almost a nightly basis.

One game in particular sticks out in my mind. It was mid-season against the BoreSox on Sunday night, national television. We got down early but battled back in about the 6th-7th on the strength of a Francouer homer. Man, the Ted was rockin….and I for one was thinking to myself…ok this is it…this is where we turn our season around. But the momentum was short lived. The VERY next inning our crappy, worthless pen gave it right back to ‘em.

You see, a bad pen does more than blows saves and leads. I think it demoralizes the team so badly, that it also affects the team’s performance over the following days and weeks. In other words, a game like the one I just described can get the team so down and demotivated that it sort of infects the rest of the team. Just something to think about…

By Braves fan 202

January 18, 2007 03:42 PM | Link to this

I cant believe we got this trade, the buccos are so dumb, gonzalez is much better to have than laroche. man the braves are stacked, if chip stays healthy we will be insanely good this year, how bout them braves

By Gregory Carpenter

January 18, 2007 03:51 PM | Link to this

I think this a greater Trade for both teams ,but Atlanta got the best of the deal. Scott Thorman will be better than Adam Laroche in a year. I also, think is part of deal to get Baldelli, if the devils turn the fire down so we can get him. Baldelli in my mind is ( J.D. Drew) when & if he come to Atlanta. That said he will be a Greater player for ATLANTA. GREAT TRADE !!! Mr.Sure no what u doing!! JS!!

By Slappy McGee

January 18, 2007 03:52 PM | Link to this

The truth is that no one will honestly know if this is a good deal or a bad deal until deep into the season. What if LaRoche starts out batting .210 in the first half, with 10 hrs and 40 RBI? What if Gonzalez does his best Dan Kolb impersonation? It’s no guarantee that LaRoche will repeat his July/August performance. I imagine he’ll be more like he was the rest of the time he was in Atlanta: slow upper-cut swinging, lots of K’s (128 in 2006), disappearing in the clutch.

Or he could turn into the juiced-up version of Jason Giambi. Who knows? You have to wait and see.

By Tn Jed

January 18, 2007 03:53 PM | Link to this

Great…another “reliever” that will end up not living up to expectations. We could fill an all star team with players weve traded for relief pitchers

By ryan

January 18, 2007 03:58 PM | Link to this

now if the braves can just swing a deal for baldelli we will definitely be a playoff team next year.

By TimeWarnerHater

January 18, 2007 03:58 PM | Link to this

It sucks to tell the my little brother how good the Braves use to be and how much I enjoyed watching them when I was his age. I think I’ll go by him a Cardinals hat.

By dgd

January 18, 2007 04:00 PM | Link to this

I think this has the potential to be a good deal—Lillibridge sounds like a possible long-term leadoff solution—but to those who say “salary dump” had no element in this deal, get a clue! This deal, which has been in the works for two months, was only finalized after arbitration numbers were exchanged and Gonzalez was signed by the Pirates. The $1.4 difference in what Gonzalez signed for and what LaRoche asked for (and was likely to get)in arbitration is huge for the Braves right now. The Braves have absolutely NO payroll flexibility and while they’re in limbo and with corporate ownership under Liberty this is likely how it will be. I just worry about JS thinking too much about winning now for his “genius” repution and sacrificing the future. It’s better to be mediocre for the present and retool for a long winning run than to be slightly better than mediocre but not a real winner forever. Look at what former Braves President Stan Kasten is doing with the Nationals. They are going to stink big-time this year, but they’ve hired a boat-load of scouts, are sinking lots of cash into latin america academies and signing a bunch of young latin players. They are spending money in the right areas and will be a force for YEARS…….

By bill

January 18, 2007 04:10 PM | Link to this

remember guys if we are still in it by the all star break and if second and first base is still a work in progress we can trade for the help we need for the final run to the play off’s

By riccowboy

January 18, 2007 04:12 PM | Link to this

This is good news for the Braves if they intend to keep Gonzalez. Gonzalez makes the bullpen real strong. They already got Soriano and he is a righthander. Now they have a good lefthander, both to be used to get to Wickman. Plus Gonzalex has closer experience. Could also help in the future. I’m sure that they will find them a 1st baseman to be just as productive as La Roache.

By Bobby Cox is an Idiot

January 18, 2007 04:13 PM | Link to this

Enough! We lost Rochy who had one good Half a year. Does everybody forget that he was mediocre at best for 2 other years. Yeah, you Pittsburgh fans and your organization sure pulled one over on us. You got a guy who had 1 good year out of 3.

LOL…yeah Gonzo has been a stalwart closer for five years now. You got a kid with a good arm, but with a long list of elbow problems and a poor WHIP for a closer. Yeah, he was 24 for 24. It’s easy to go 24 for 24 when you get 1.5 save opportunities per week and pitching in front of 5,000 fans. Wait till the pressure mounts like it will in Atlanta.

By Luke

January 18, 2007 04:21 PM | Link to this

Ex UGA slugger Josh Morris just completed a year in Class A with pretty good numbers. How long til’ he makes the big leagues? Could he be the future first baseman for the Braves?

By Mike Gonzalez

January 18, 2007 04:22 PM | Link to this

I can’t believe the Pirates traded me for a great left-handed power bat. My arm is still sore. I hope I pass the physical. Man, I just realized I walked almost 1 guy per inning last year. I hope the pressure isn’t that great in Atlanta because I’ll buckle under pressure.

By JT

January 18, 2007 04:38 PM | Link to this

Ok, Enough Bullpen trading already!! Let’s remember we have to score more runs than the other teams JS! With Chipper probably being able to only play about half of the season coming up. You got Andrew, Francouer The K King!! and McCaan left to drive in runs! Can’t depend on S Thorman yet. How bout we try and get some vets in here JS? Enough with the farm team already!! Just go ahead and throw Chucky james in the trade as well, might as well he has the potential to be a Star as well!! So Long 40 Hr’s and 100 rbi next season! Thanks Alot JS! How long are we going to keep Gonzalez? 1 Freakin Year Probably! Great Trade thanks to the Whoever the Damn owners are now, you Cheap Bastards!!!!

By jed

January 18, 2007 04:38 PM | Link to this

to jay w: first of all, you miss a huge point, which is that la roche will be a gold-glover soon at 1b, whereas thorman is clumsy at best. and as far as hitting goes… it took la roche several years to hit at the big-league level. there’s a learning curve involved. thorman has not gone through that. i hope the best with thorman, and i think this trade’s a good one if we deal gonzales etc for baldelli, but if you think thorman isnt going to be a liability defensively and a major drop-off offensively from la roche, you’re gonna be sorely disappointed.

By Nelson Hawkins

January 18, 2007 04:39 PM | Link to this

A couple of notes as I read over the comments:

Sid Bream was safe (and continues to be, as the records indicate). He was only out in the shattered dreams of Pirates fans, and hey, I can sympathize; it would’ve been like if Murphy came back and did it to us with the Phillies in ‘93. However, with things like YouTube, ESPNClassic, etc., and widely available features like stop-motion and super-slo-mo, there’s no way to slice it and make him out. Barry Bonds made the greatest throw of his life, but it would’ve taken the heart of a lion to stop Bream from scoring, and even before the cream and the clear (and the tweak), he only had the heart of Barry Bonds…

I’m not ordinarily fond of the blogland drive toward prescience, but I will go ahead and predict Lillibridge is bare minimum a spring training standout and September call-up that sticks with the postseason roster. Can’t fault him for being 23 at A-ball, he came from (a very good) 4-year college program. He progressed through low-A and high-A last year and managed to raise his batting average along the way.

By All Star

January 18, 2007 04:48 PM | Link to this

If former DAWG 1B Josh Morris puts up decent numbers in AA (.280BA, 20HR, 70RBI), then I would say he would have a shot with Atlanta in 2008. Not ready yet!

By Realistic Ricky

January 18, 2007 04:53 PM | Link to this

I think some of you folks are giving LaRoche way too much credit for his one good season. He seemed to be overmatched against any decent lefthanded pitcher, and he struck out too much with runners on base. Braves fans should know better than anybody that PITCHING WINS, and I think our pitching just got another significant upgrade. One of our young guys will step up this year and help offset the loss of LaRoche’s hitting.

By Jonathan

January 18, 2007 05:05 PM | Link to this

In response to JT…i agree on some levels…but don’t we hold Gonzalez’s right for at least 3 more seasons before he can become unrestricted?

By Roadrunner

January 18, 2007 05:21 PM | Link to this

Let’s take a look at it from the club’s/manager’s perspective. Our starters aren’t young studs, they have age and experience and are in reality good for five or six innings. Now Bobby can get the 5 -6 innings from the starter and turn it over to three closers. It is a great deal. Go JS.

By bbcsickdawg

January 18, 2007 05:42 PM | Link to this

never heard of him! what happened to sid bream,he’s better and would play for free!

By confused

January 18, 2007 05:56 PM | Link to this

STUPID. STUPID. STUPID

By Kevin

January 18, 2007 06:09 PM | Link to this

The trade is OK, but the Braves are all about saving money, no matter what it takes. They poor mouth better than farmers, whe are pretty darn good at it.

By Braves fan 202

January 18, 2007 06:11 PM | Link to this

laroche sux, thats all there is to it, cant wait till 07, i wish the braves would sell out a game or two tho

By Dick

January 18, 2007 06:14 PM | Link to this

This trade was long overdue. LaRoche is an average player at best (look at his career numbers, not just last years “ADD drug” enhanced numbers).

Bottom line: Doesn’t matter how good you hit if you can’t pitch. And it doesn’t matter how good the pitching is if you don’t have a good bullpen / closers. We have plenty of offense…more than enough…and now we got some bullpen to go with it.

And an awesome shortstop prospect to boot? Oh yeah!

Great move!

By jb

January 18, 2007 06:32 PM | Link to this

Great trade! We just got a left handed power reliever. This is what you need in the postseason. Remember the Braves let Javy Lopez go in free agency after his career year. He sure has not been close to those numbers since. LoRoche will still strike out too much, make base running mistakes, and will probably only have 1 or 2 years that approach last years numbers.

By Sandman

January 18, 2007 06:57 PM | Link to this

okay so i have been p** off for about 24 hours now. As much as i cussed schurholtz out today i feel half way better now that he signed craig wilson. but i still dont like the trade

By alaska fan

January 18, 2007 07:19 PM | Link to this

I like the trade, just seen where craig wilson was signed. go braves 2007

By Doug

January 18, 2007 07:34 PM | Link to this

For the earlier comments on Wickman. I think we will see Wickman with the organization for a couple of years. Remember when he was traded he said the only organizations he would ever play for was the Indians or the Braves. Bobzilla isn’t in it for the money … the man plays ball because he loves the game and loves the teams he plays for. I don’t think he will try to extort more money out of the franchise like Jones will at the end of this year (I like Jones, but with Boras as your agent, you pretty much identify where your priorities REALLY are).

By superman

January 18, 2007 08:33 PM | Link to this

we got craig wilson. anyone know anything about him??

By danny b

January 18, 2007 08:34 PM | Link to this

3.8 mil for a guy who never hustles. no thanks. we now have the best bullpen in baseball. this move gives us a future closer and frees up soriano to be the 5th starter if needed. with todays acquisition of wilson, i think the team is really taking shape and i cannot wait for opening day.

By Shane

January 18, 2007 08:39 PM | Link to this

Wilson is a career .290 hitter against lefties - oh, and his deal is worth $2 million, meaning we are paynig he and Gonzo a combined $4.3 million, or $500,000 more than Laroche asked for.

Still say this was a salary dump?

By gtfan

January 18, 2007 08:43 PM | Link to this

Why is everyone calling LaRoche a slugger? Look at his career stats - take away the last 3 months of ‘06 and he’s just a mediocre hitter. With the addition of Wilson, the Braves can go back to the platoon system that worked well in previous years.

By Anonymous

January 18, 2007 08:48 PM | Link to this

Well the Bullpen ought to be finished. We might want to get another starter. Another thing, Pete Orr has been in the majors, what 3 years now, Why not put him at second and make him the leadoff hitter. He is the fastest guy on our team and he has the potential to steal more bases than Furcal. Then I would go after Colorado Rockies’s power - hitting LF Matt Holliday. He’s good for about 20 HRs and 80 RBI’s.

By Dennis

January 18, 2007 10:18 PM | Link to this

It’s a late September game at Shea. The Braves need a win to make the playoffs. Bottom of the 8th, 2 out, runners on second and third, Braves up 4-3. Delgado is at the plate. Do want Gonzalez on the mound and Thorman at first or McBride on the mound and LaRoach at first?

JS decided on the former, we’ll have to wait to see if he is correct.

Also, the minor league SS they got is considered a potential future all-star

By br618

January 18, 2007 10:19 PM | Link to this

the trade is good, laroche hit 6th or 7th with the braves, thorman isn’t going to be asked to help carry the team, just contribute, he can adjust to big league pitching while playing his position (unlike ryan klesko) i keep remembering how many games the big three would leave with a lead during the 90’s and the bullpen blew a lead late for them…i still expect js to pull another trade/pickup during spring training when they have time to evaluate the second basemen and leftfielders

By deewill

January 18, 2007 11:37 PM | Link to this

When I first heard of this trade I had some mixed emotions. But with time this trade grew on me. We get a closer that gets the job done. We also get a very good young shortstop who might get moved to second base. His scouting report is very imprusive look at his stats.Lillibridge, 23, combined to hit .305 with 13 home runs, 71 RBIs and 53 stolen bases in 2006 while splitting the season between low Class A Hickory and high Class A Lynchburg. And also is there #3 rated prospect in the pirates organization.The scouting report also says his defense is better than is offense. So when you people just say he was just a throw in player in the trade get the facts right. He might be the braves future second base man and their leadoff hitter. There is also people crying about our offense isn’t going to score runs thats just crazy. We still have Renteria, Chipper, Andruw, Francoeur, McCann, Diaz. These are some very good offensive players. I also believe our offensive might also be better. I really believe Kelly Johnson not only would be a good upgrade over Giles but a major upgrade. I project his stats would be .310 BA, 80 RBI, 10 SB, 20 HR, 40 doubles as our leadoff hitter. Johnson should be very patient at the plate and draw a lot of walks like he did in his rookie season.Johnson should have a breakout in 2007. Sott Thorman should also have some good stats I project them to be .270 BA, 25 HR, 80 RBI. Thorman has some great power for a first baseman. Thorman needs to start looking to go the opposite field and stop pulling off on the ball. When he learns and does that his batting average will go up (The same thing for Andruw Jones). The Braves also signed Craig Wilson to have some power on the bench and to share time with Thorman.So to summarize my blog I believe the braves are going to have a pretty big year. GO BRAVES!

By DAP

January 19, 2007 12:04 AM | Link to this

man,so many thoughts on this.

i am very very sad to see laroche go, because he was pretty awesome. unlike most people, i always liked the guy. he made some mistakes but who doesnt? that being said, i like the trade. at first i was a little ticked that we did not get another impact player, or someone we could immediatly deal. i was thinking that if we did the trade we should do something that would put us in a position to turn around and get baldelli, maybe another pitcher from pit.

but, sometimes you gotta make a sacrifice to help the team, and i really like not having to worry about the bullpen. its not a feeling im used to.

those of you who are freaking out about losing laroche’s bat need to relax. i will miss his sweet swing too, but laroche was not even close to the best hitter on the team. there are three other guys on the team still that are way better hitters(chipper, andruw, McCann) and five guys id rather have in a clutch situation (those 3 plus francour and rentaria) our offense will be fine without laroche.

By DAP

January 19, 2007 12:09 AM | Link to this

but now i need to ask the question why? why get another middle infielder? we have lots of those? that frusterated me some, but i have to think that we are getting set up for another trade…maybe not even this year, but we are collecting barganing peices.

my other why? involves all of these free agents we are signing. some infielders and craig wilson? im glad to have wilson but i hate platoons. if we want guys like thorman to excel and start doing well in the majors, we gotta let him play, even against lefties! now we have tons of guys who can play the outfield and tons of guys who can play the infield. all the guys we have cant fit on the roster! we MUST be stockpiling for some kind of trade, thats the only thing that makes sense.

but if we could get craig wilson and all these other infielders…why couldnt we have kept ward? wilson is my favorite free agent we have signed, but im starting to fee like we could have hung on to ward instead of signing all these dudes we cant even use.

By Ralph

January 19, 2007 03:05 AM | Link to this

It doesn’t matter who goes or who stays the magic the Braves had for years is gone along with everything else.

By jim

January 19, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this

i think the trade and signing are a good move. You watch, laroche will start real slow and not even come close to last years numbers, remember there wont be any McCann, Frenchy, Chipper, Andrew hitting around him. Thorman is going to be better than most of you project, and wilson will help out until then. Diaz might be good trade bait as well as Oscar or one of the other bull pen arms. I am more worried about second base than first. Our starting pitching is suspect as well as only Smoltz and James had dependable outings last year. Braves fan for ever, and I think JS is a mini genius he has made awesome trades over the years, the Laroche trade is a good one, not great, he probable could have come out a little better maybe gonsalas at least

By steve

January 19, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this

These moves are only being made because the Braves have no real owners and it sounds like Liberty is only buying so they can dump us later on; until we get a real owner that cares the Braves will continue to lose all their good players.

By Robert

January 19, 2007 03:14 PM | Link to this

POSITIONAL BREAKDOWN: (every position has a solid backup plan, too!) C: McCann, Pena 1B: Thorman(vsR), Wilson(vsL) 2B: Johnson(vsR), Prado(vsL) *Sleeper = Escobar! SS: Renteria, Aybar 3B: CJones, Aybar LF: Langerhans(vsR), Diaz(vsL) CF: AJones, Langerhans RF: Francoeur, Diaz SP: Smoltz, Hudson, Hampton, James, Davies (If there is an injury, Villareal) RP: Wickman, Soriano, Gonzalez, Sturtze, McBride, Yates, Paronto

What does it all add up to? Playoffs!!!

By Robert

January 19, 2007 03:16 PM | Link to this

One more point, LaRoche is thismuch better than a Wilson and Thorman platoon, add Gonzalez, and Braves win!

2B is fine, Johnson has a solid OBP and doesnt need to steal bases. As long as Bobby accepts some defense slips from Johnson and Diaz, this team will pitch and hit with the best of ‘em!

By jed

January 19, 2007 05:52 PM | Link to this

With a couple days to think about this, I can agree a bullpen like this is pretty exciting. However, if we got Gonzales to keep him, you’ve still traded an everyday player who’s coming into his own for a relief pitcher. Deals like that don’t have good track records.

By Joe

January 19, 2007 06:07 PM | Link to this

Personally, I don’t like this trade at all. Laroche has a lot of potential and i think he’s a good player. However, we do need bullpen help. I’ll just have to trust Schuerholz on this one.