ajcsportstalk

By Jeff

June 21, 2007 10:44 AM | Link to this

Im so disgusted w/ the braves right now. I was fortunate to attend last nights game was dumbfounded. The whole night was pathetic. The horrible pitching, the feable attemtpt of hitting, everything was horrible. And to top it off, you had 20,000 BoSox Fans rubbing it your face. WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON????

By ChampDawg

June 21, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

Nothin more needs to be said that hasn’t already been said. This Braves team just isn’t that good. The combination of injuries, youth, poor pitching, and Andruw’s woes has pretty much done this season in. The Braves were embarrassed by the Bosox.

By Chris

June 21, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

Can we get some Braves fans in Atlanta (if there are any) to go to some games??? That is absolutely disgraceful to all Braves fans outside of Dallas who don’t have the opportunity to attend games to see a bunch of Red Sox bandwagonners cheer on their team in OUR STADIUM! I think a just punishment would be ship the dreadful Rangers to Atlanta and bring the Braves over here.

By Oasisbraves

June 21, 2007 11:12 AM | Link to this

I’m more upset at the situations rather than the players themselves (except Andruw). Were lucky to still be in the race. We should trade for a starting pitcher right away. We need a starter behind Smoltz and Hudson that we can count on. I dont blame the pitching and defense as much as I blame our offense. Bobby Cox needs to talk to these guys and figure out why a good line up like this cannot hit. Maybe Terry Pendleton needs to be evaluated. Eddie Murray is available. Franceour and Andruw need to be more selective and they will get better pitches to hit.

We need to be patient im sure, but the Braves are not going to be so lucky in the standings if we dont start winning some games…SOON.

By Charles Brawner

June 21, 2007 11:14 AM | Link to this

I think more players than Andrew needs to sit out a game or too,but one thing about the Braves is they have a great manager who will get this thing right soon.

By Bear

June 21, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this

Braves fans were pathetic this series. Just downright digusting support for the home team. You all should be ashamed!

By Rich

June 21, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

Let’s face it, Boston is a better city by far and so are the Red Sox and the fans. Go Red Sox.

By Chris

June 21, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this

Disgraceful to all Braves fans outside of Atlanta…my bad.

By Buck

June 21, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this

Coach, we need to get these guys to stop swinging for the fences on EVERY pitch. Singles and doubles generate offensive opportunities and pressure the pitcher.

Coming out of your shoes and missing pitches sure looks foolish on your first at bat; let alone the 2nd 3rd and 4th…

By James

June 21, 2007 11:29 AM | Link to this

The Braves need to start trading prospects for starting pitching now! The Braves only have 2 quality starting pitchers. Saltalamaccia and Escobar need to be sacrificed for pitching that can help the Braves win games. The hitting will come around.

By Gary

June 21, 2007 11:29 AM | Link to this

I’m not worried yet but I have to admit I don’t understand the lefty reliever for lefty reliever trade. We could have used another lefty starter against the Red Sox. I’ve followed the Braves long enough to know that our GM J.S. will go get us what we need to win this division. Now if we could just wake up AJ’s bat.

By Kaye

June 21, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

Cox is not going to figure this one out. He has two, count two pitchers. He has Andruw and Chipper who are doing nothing but striking out and sitting out. Pendleton from the get go I have said is not a hitting coach. I am sick of people wanting me to attend games when they give you nothing to attend for. Even the young kids are now following suite.

By danny simmons

June 21, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

Is it me or is this not a new thing. The braves need heart since dave justice left there has been none they need a player to step to the fans and say whats up i mean this is not new compare braves fans to red sox or yankee fans the braves make no noise at all how can a team get fired up if the crowd does nothing its pothetic i will not make a comment about how they are playing cuz every team goes through spells like this but the fans need to get off of there buts and make some noise i will admit though the team does need some more pitching but aslong as they do not get rid of saltalamachia everything is great that kid is the future of the braves

By Kentavo

June 21, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

Having said this, I’m sure the homeboy upstairs is cooking something. He even made in-season moves last year when we didn’t make the playoffs, so I’d expect it this year when we’re only a couple games out of 1st (thank you Mets). I mean Wickman was an impact move, picking up Ward last year would have made impact if we’d made the playoffs, and picking up Baez and Aybar should have been adventageous if they weren’t both flakes.

We need a McGriff/Neagle type immediate dividend trade - something to give the team a shot in the arm.

By Jason

June 21, 2007 11:34 AM | Link to this

I was really hoping after game 1’s win, we’d take at least 2 of 3. So much for hoping.

This is what irks me. All of these New England transplants that move here come for new jobs, the weather, a better lifestyle, whatever it may be. Yet they still hold on to their old, hometown teams. Moving to a new town means learning new directions, meeting new people, and learning a new way of life - and that includes assimilating to our culture, which includes the Braves, not the Red Sox.

Yet, I know how hard it would be to give up the loyalty to your team where you are from. So I’m not asking them to give up their support for the Red Sox… but I think if you are gonna live here and use our roads and have a job down here, then you should also come out and support your new hometown’s team… If there was some way we could even get 1/2 of these people to come out to Braves games, Turner Field would be packed almost every night… yet they only come out for the Red Sox. What can the Braves do to market to these people so they come out to support the Braves? I know so many Red Sox “fans” are as bandwagon as they come; yet if they truly are the kind of fans they SAY they are, then they are not only Red Sox fans, they are fans of baseball in general, and you’d think if that was true they’d also come out and support the Braves in similar numbers… but I guess it’s ALL about the Red Sox and not supporting baseball in general, and that to me, is sad.

The Braves were schooled by MLBs best… and we should be counting our blessings that somehow, someway we’ve managed to stay where we are in the standings, we should be thankful the Mets are playing just as bad, if not worse, than we are.

But if there’s silver lining in all of this, there’s one thing Braves and Red Sox fans CAN agree on: Our hatred for the Yankees. When the Red Sox beat the Braves over these two games, the Yankees have also lost, pushing the Red Sox further and further away from the Yankees… and anything the Red Sox or Braves, or any MLB team for that matter, can do to help the cause of keeping the Yankees out of contention is a great thing. The Braves may have lost, but at least it helped push back the Yankees even further, and that to me, while not as good as win, is still something good out of all of this. I love to see the Yankees in misery and this helped make their misery even worse… and that is a good thing.

But really, all of these New England transplants really need to come support the Braves… the Red Sox are not the only team in the world. We both HATE the Yankees… so c’mon… join forces with us and we can take on the Evil Empire together!!!

By N GA BOB

June 21, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this

Please….I’ve been repeating over and over since last year trade AJ while he’s got a LITTLE VALUE left.

By Jill Lange

June 21, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this

PLEASE, PLEASE get serious about pitching. Yes we will loose one here and there as no one is prfect, but we have dead weight in Hampton and our starting rotation is seriously thin to say the least. If we even think we have a chance this season, dump the non-producers (where ever they may be) and beef up pitching.
AND don’t let Andruw out of the lineup. We need him in the field (how many games would we have lost without his amazing plays?) and it is only a matter of time before he busts out hitting as we are accustomed to seeing!

By danny simmons

June 21, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

i think they need to trade andruw not the prospects they more than likeley will not resign him so get something for him now and the fans at braves games make me sick why cannot chipper or smoltz stand up and say this is pethetic like dave justice did so what you get booed that is better than no noise

By Loyal Brave

June 21, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this

Im just tired of everyone coming to live in our wonderful city and cheering for the city they left. I grew up in Los Angeles, huge Dodger fan. Now I live in Atlanta, and have grown to love the Braves and Falcons, still need some help for the Hawks. Atlanta is my hometown, and it probably is for the thousands of Red Sox fans that were at the Ted last night. Its not fair for our city, if you want to move down here then be proud of the city. That means cheering for YOUR HOMETOWN TEAM.

By Quint

June 21, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

Go Braves!!!

The Mets stink.

I despise Scott Borass.

Love Bobby Cox.

Andruw needs to sign now.

Can we sign Ron Gant?

By Realist

June 21, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this

I say let as many Red Sox, Cubs and Mets fans come to town as they want. It’s good to see the stadium full for a change, and those people PAID FOR TICKETS. That means that they are helping the cause of all of us who want the Braves to spend another $5M on a starting pitcher. Time Warner, Liberty Media, Arthur Blank — it doesn’t matter who owns the team, smart owners in this era peg their payroll to their revenue, and ticket sales are the most important aspect of that revenue that changes from year to year. So come on down to the Ted, everyone from Tampa Bay to NY! It’s only going to make the games more fun and the Braves roster more powerful.

By Del

June 21, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this

Chris … You want more Braves fans to attend games? My answer is: play better ball and lower prices and they WILL come.

We miss Pat Coralles and his player positioning skills and his ability to teach catchers how to improve their base stealing throws. We miss a manager who will not be so forgiving of players sub-standard performance. We miss players who have not been taught the basic fundamentals of bunting. We miss an aggressive GM who cann’t seem to get it right any more with the trades and signings he has made the past several years. We miss an aggessive hitting coach who isn’t afraid to go face to face with his players who cann’t seem to break bad habits. We miss seeing and hearing excited fans in the ballyard, but they only mimic the business-like attitude the players have adopted.

Chris, I think what I’m trying to say is that there is nothing wrong with the basic skills of the current batch of Braves. What is wrong is all the surrounding skills that make up the Braves team; ie. coaches, GM, mgr, owners, etc. Somebody in this organization has to get mad enough to stand up and say THIS IS ENOUGH, AND THIS IS WHAT WE ARE GOING TO DO ABOUT IT!!!

By bravesfan

June 21, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this

BREAKING NEWS!!! The Reds trade Aaron Harang, Griffey, and Adam Dunn to the Braves for A. Jones, S. Thorman, B. Pena, and Y. Escobar.

By faninva

June 21, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this

sox fans need to take a few lessons from St. Louis Cardinal fans. There is a reason they are called baseballs best fans. Win or lose, they exhibit class. I have no problem with transplant fans, but come on…bosox up 11-0, 2 outs in the bottom of the ninth, and all we hear is “let’s go, Redsox”. I used to cheer the sox because I hate the Yankees - yankee fans are so obnoxious - it’s now clear to me that Bosox fans are not only equally obnoxious, but also classless.

By Kay-C

June 21, 2007 11:51 AM | Link to this

hurry up and retire FOUR good, Munson, ya ol bag of crap! Come on Scott and Jeff! If Suck Blew and Kincaide get the job I’m moving to Norway.

By Paul

June 21, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this

The Red Sox are like the Patriots. A team that draws in all of New England. So many fans and so few seats and AirTran letting you fly roundtrip for almost nothing from Boston, plus a mid-week series, plus so many transplants, what do you expect? Everyone knows that when northern peeps come down here to live, they always remain “loyal” to their home town team. Sad, but true. And do you know how hard it is to get a ticket to Fenway?

By Steve

June 21, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this

This team is doomed without another quality starter and another big bat… its just that simple

By Kentavo

June 21, 2007 11:56 AM | Link to this

Wouldn’t it be great to move up to New England en masse and bring all our customs with us - including the tomahawk chop? Jason, I competely agree with your post. I’m a Braves fan, first and foremsost, but you can bet your sweet *ss that if I lived in an MLB city other than ATL, I’d be going to that team’s home games. That’s because I’m a baseball fan (and a sucker for checking out stadiums, too). I don’t live in an MLB city right now, so these pukes should realize that it’s a privelidge - (even in Tampa)

By Bryan G.

June 21, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

I wonder if since Skip Caray is being forced out of the Braves booth if Chip Caray would want the job?

By Randy

June 21, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this

Say what you want about the fans, but we aren’t the ones who are getting shut out!!

When Buddy Carlyle starts against the Sox, you know you are going to lose. But to get blanked TWO DAYS IN A ROW is the EMBARRASSMENT!

Where are the bats? Where is the power? It just isn’t there.

PS I was there. Got to tell you, there was a Sox fan wearing a kilt. Maybe in Boston that stuff is cool, but here we call it just plain gay.

Boston sucks.

By RJS

June 21, 2007 12:00 PM | Link to this

Face it, the Braves are simply not that good.
As for the Red Sox, there actually wasn’t too much to be proud of: when your payroll is over $50 million higher than the other team, you shouldn’t take 2 of 3, you should sweep them. It would have been disgraceful if the Bosox’s didn’t win the series. This is the reality of the Liberty owned Braves. Get used to it.

By Brent

June 21, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this

“That is absolutely disgraceful to all Braves fans outside of Dallas who don’t have the opportunity to attend games to see a bunch of Red Sox bandwagonners cheer on their team in OUR STADIUM!”

“All of these New England transplants that move here come for new jobs, the weather, a better lifestyle, whatever it may be. Yet they still hold on to their old, hometown teams. Moving to a new town means learning new directions, meeting new people, and learning a new way of life - and that includes assimilating to our culture, which includes the Braves, not the Red Sox.”

“But really, all of these New England transplants really need to come support the Braves… the Red Sox are not the only team in the world. We both HATE the Yankees… so c’mon… join forces with us and we can take on the Evil Empire together!!!”

There are plenty of Red Sox fans (myself included) who do make a point of supporting the Braves when they play any other team EXCEPT the Red Sox. You see that with any other sports franchise in Atlanta (particular the Thrashers, who have New Yorkers cheering for the Thrashers except when they play the Rangers or the Sabres, Michiganders who cheer for the Thrashers except for when they play the Red Wings, etc).

The bottom line is that major league baseball in the South has been here since 1966. It has been in cities like Boston, Chicago, New York, St. Louis, and Detroit since the late 19th Century/early 20th Century. The correct analogy to make for an equivalent sport in the South is college football, a sport that has been played by most major state universities since the late 19th Century.

You can’t tell me that if you were raised in Georgia cheering for UGA’s football team (without even necessarily attending the school) that you would find yourself supporting Boston College if you ended up moving to Boston or the University of Michigan if you moved to Detroit; it’s not any more realistic than expecting Red Sox fans relocating to the South to become Braves fans. I have an uncle in Winnipeg, Manitoba (Canada), 70-something years old, who still has the Boston Globe delivered to him so he can read the sports section to follow the Red Sox. It’s like being raised Catholic or Jewish; it’s just not something you stop doing.

By JordanPTC

June 21, 2007 12:04 PM | Link to this

the reason no Braves fans go to the game is because there is NO mass transit to the game AND the parking is HORRENDOUS! its just easier be a braves fan in front of the TV than deal with traffic, parking, long lines, and ugly losses.

By EB-dawg

June 21, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

Jeff Francoeur is a great talent…. but Jeff… PLEASE… take a pitch every now and then!! Swinging at the first pitch 90% of the time is not being aggressive… it’s called something else!!

By wait-til-next-year

June 21, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this

1) Andruw can’t be traded w/o his consent - he is a 10/5 guy (10 yrs service + 5 with same team) - he has already stated he will veto any trade, so he is here for the duration 2) Seems to me that the manager’s job is to put the best 9 guys on the field every night to give the team its best opportunity to win. However, this is not Cox’ style, thus you have guys out there based on past history, not current level of performance. Therefore: 3) If the fat lady hasn’t sung yet, she’s warming up in the bullpen…

By Anyone home?

June 21, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

How about this?

• Andruw goes on the 15 day DL - sore toe, leg, hinie - whatever. That gives him a chance to get his act together and gives Harris a chance to show what he can do in center on a regular basis.
• After his 15 days are up, he can go to Rome for 3-4 games on a “rehab” assignment and feast on some minor league pitching to get his confidence and groove back.

Hey - at least it’s something. Better than letting him go out and get a collar every game.

By ROok

June 21, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

The Braves are not playing like a team who wants to win their division let alone a championship. I went to the game last night hoping to see two professional baseball teams and I end up seeing baseballs best against baseballs wanna be. Go ahead and trade Andrew Jones now and get what value he has left because he is slowly but surely dwindling into an average baseball player.

By Dan

June 21, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this

Jason, you have got to be kidding me. You’re now begging for non-Braves fans, i.e. transplants, to come support our team? Why don’t you beg for all of the local so called fans to come out? And are you really that thrilled that the Braves losses also hurt the Yankees? They’re not our rival, they’re not even in our league literally and figuratively. If that’s what you find solace in you are sad. We need to get Braves fans into Turner Field to cheer the local team.

By lin

June 21, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this

i say it over and over its the pitchers we dont have dependable guys sorry but smoltz only wins because guys like to hit that day hudson all way to 5th pitcher forget it we need to rebuild better group of pitchers and dont expect farm teams due it all now go ahead trade andruw and orr and jeff f. and get good pitcher we need it now not next yr. harris can due center or right let thorman go outfield salty can handle first chipper he ready to retire or be fill in now sorry but too many aches and pains for him but none of this will happen i love bobby but its time for him retire as can only due so much need new fresh ideas to win games now.

By Edward R. Murrow

June 21, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this

BREAKING NEWS: Red Sox fans are STILL rude, foul-mouthed, obnoxious and STILL enjoy yelling out profanity in front of other people’s children….over a GAME.

ATLANTA BRAVES Season-Ticket Holders and other witnesses say this also holds true for most New York and Chicago fans who venture to TURNER FIELD in large numbers to ruin the family-friendly and first-class atmosphere the BRAVES try so hard to create for ALL fans.

In other news, Mike Vick has herpes and will soon be in prison.

Also, we now have unconfirmed reports that the ATLANTA HAWKS are changing to their uniforms and logos blue with a hint of red to further milk the Atlanta Spirit and Philips Arena color schemes.

We’ll have further updates as they become available. Please stay tuned.

By Indifferent

June 21, 2007 12:23 PM | Link to this

Can we all agree that the Yankees blow? Building Turner Field in the middle of the ghetto does not help attendance. If the TED was built on the north side it would sell out all the time. Sorry but it’s the truth. Getting to Turner Field during rush hour is horrendous.

By Judy

June 21, 2007 12:23 PM | Link to this

Since moving from Atlanta two years ago I now pay to see the Braves on a Dish. Seeing the feeds from the home parks around the nation I get to hear a lot of different announcers and it is refreshing. In my humble opinion the Braves announcers are the worst dressed (polos or polo/jacket), the Cardinal announcers are the most boring, and the Braves have the fewest promotions for fans. I’m a diehard fan and still support the chop for every game and read the sports in the AJC everyday to get the inside info but being a step away from there gives me a bit of perspective. I loved TP as a player but he doesn’t command any attention from the players: case in point AJ, Thorman, and Franc just brush him off. Chipper doesn’t listen to anyone but the Red Cross (I heard he is going to be on the new posters for the Red Cross). The enthusiasm of last year from the young guys is missing this year; yes, the season is a grind and yes, it’s a business but when the cameras pan the dugout we see Chipper sitting on the bench slowly putting his hands together to mimic a clap after a teammate’s homerun as just one of dozens of examples. It’s interesting to listen to other announcer’s perspective of Andrew, Chipper, Bobby and the Braves in general. Bobby loves the old players and what they bring to the table and he’s made a valiant effort to accept the young guys but we’ve put him in an unescapable bind. There are too many young players with no on field leadership. Let’s either keep the young talent and see where it takes us in a couple of years and jettison Chipper and Andrew or trade the talent and get some old geezers.

By Michael

June 21, 2007 12:23 PM | Link to this

As if watching last night’s debacle wasn’t bad enough, I’m now trying to figure out this McBride trade. Don’t get me wrong, if the trade improves the team I’m all for it - but we’re giving up a guy who had a 3.60 ERA in 18 games this season for a guy that has a 4.79 ERA in 23 games this season??? I wouldn’t even take that move with my fantasy team.

By Ahem

June 21, 2007 12:25 PM | Link to this

Beer at the ballpark: 7 bucks

Hot Dogs: 5 bucks

Nachos: 5 bucks

Avg. Amount Spent at Ballpark after parking, $5 ticket (at the cheapest) and refreshments: 50 bucks

Avg. Time to get to the Ballpark: 1 hr minutes (exaggerated but feels like it)

Avg. Time to leave the Ballpark: 1 hr 30 minutes (exaggerated but feels like it)

Avg. Time for people who actually go to Braves games to get home: 2 hrs

Public transportation system: crap

Braves fans: spoiled, but still dedicated

Bo Sox, Yankees fans: Don’t you have jobs?

By Bring Back Sid Bream

June 21, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this

Someone please help me!

I like Bobby Cox, and I am a huge Braves fan, but what legitimate reasons do we currently have to believe that Bobby Cox is doing a good job? As I said, I like the guy, he’s one of the great managers of all time, but right now, where we are today, what is he doing to really help this team win?

I want to believe in Cox, but he seems like a cheerleader and not a manager. He gives guys who have no business being in the major leagues 2nd and 3rd and 4th chances to improve their performance, namely members of our bullpen. Some do improve, most DON’T. How long can we tolerate this?

I know he’s probably gone after the 2008 season, but I just don’t think anything good is going to happen with this team until Bobby hangs it up. I really hate saying that, but nothing causes me to feel otherwise….

By Native Atlantan

June 21, 2007 12:31 PM | Link to this

Judging by 1 World Series win and 1 Superbowl loss in Atlanta since 1966 (and that is 41 years), Atlanta is not a professional league sports town and never has been. And when have the Hawks, Flames or Thrashers ever been worth the price of the ticket? I’m surprised the tires don’t come off of all the cars during the Road Atlanta races. Quit kidding yourselves.

By eric

June 21, 2007 12:36 PM | Link to this

Hey! How about updating the Falcons blog? I live five miles from the facility, send me a check and I’ll write the thing.. E

By JBG

June 21, 2007 12:41 PM | Link to this

My father,a veterinarian by trade, had a BoSox fan (who lives in Boston)in his office recently who informed my father that it was cheaper to fly to Kansas City to see the BoSox play than it was to see them in Boston. Therefore, based on that premise, it should be no surprise to see BoSox fans to come to Turner Field and pack the house. Good for them. Sad for us.

My parents live near Richmond, VA so they have a vested interest in following the Braves.

GO BRAVES!

By Turnin2

June 21, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this

Win, lose or draw - nothing can ever discourage me from being a Braves fan. I’ll be in my seat at the TED even if it gets worse before it gets better.

No answers to the woes of late… but just a few thoughts:

Jeff - I’ll give you a dollar if you’d just take the first pitch every now and then…

Bobby - I think Oscar’s earned a spot in the rotation, not just an opportunity to clean up all the messes…

Edgar - you totally ROCK and should be an ALL-STAR!

Kelly - you have totally surpassed any expectation that fans could have had coming in to 2007!

TP - bring in all available Dads…

and AJ- Dude, film from 2005… :)

By Chris

June 21, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

I have no problems with Red Sox fans going to cheer on their team when they are in Atlanta. Heck, I went and cheered on the Braves when they played the Rangers out here a few years ago. However, let’s at least make it difficult for Red Sox fans to get these tickets. It seemed like all the announcers could talk about were the loud Red Sox fans

I also agree with the fact the Braves need a sparkplug of some sort to light a fire under some a*******es. Here’s to hoping maybe Frenchy can be that guy once he gets a few more years experience. I do think JS has made very solid trades, however, trying to get us back into contention. Wickman, Baez & Aybar (pre-AA)..heck this is a guy that got Tim Hudson for a platoon OF at best and a pitcher still in the minors. Sure some of the deals bombed (Kolb stands out the most right now) but you can’t get em all right.

As for ticket prices, I haven’t done all the research so don’t hammer me too hard for this, but I do believe the Braves are in the middle of the pack as far as ticket prices go. They’re actually less expensive than Rangers tickets for most sections.

By i heart andruw no matter how much he sucks!

June 21, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

I just can’t understand all these people who complain about getting to the stadium and price of tickets and traffic… etc. (ie: “I would go to the game, but there’s too much traffic and it costs too much.”)

I’m sure at least some of you have heard of MARTA. One of the few places that otherwise worthless transit system will take you is to the braves’ stadium. It’s really convenient because you can park at any station outside of downtown and ride the train all the way to Underground, where you will be provided with a shuttle right to Turner Field. You can also take routes other than the express way and get there with little to no traffic.

As far as ticket prices, the last game I went to I paid $6 for student tickets, (which regularly cost a whopping $12) so I just can’t understand how much more you want the ticket prices to be lowered. Relative to any other town with a reasonably respectable baseball program, our ticket prices are dirt cheap.

Last of all, if you expect anyone to take you seriously at least spell-check your blog before you post it. At least make an attempt to sound like you were “educated” somewhere other than UGA. Please.

By Neil

June 21, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

Judging by Buddy Carlyle, my dreams of playing in the majors aren’t dead after all. If Buddy’s the best fifth man they can muster, maybe they really do have room for a 5-foot-6 righty with a 55-mile-per-hour heater.

By Matt

June 21, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

Fu** the sawks and there chowder smelling annoying a* accent fans. I went to mondays game and it was disgusting how many boston fans were there. Atlanta is a huge city we should be able sell out every game not be out done by boston an chicago fans. Thats just pathetic and so is our hitting and starting pitching. Oh well, what can you expect from a team when there so called slugger is hitting 200. I just hope we can turn it around some how but not with AJ hitting cleanup and Davies and Buddy at the back of the rotation. Give Oscar a chance in the rotation. Can’t be worse than what we got.

By Juan

June 21, 2007 12:50 PM | Link to this

The Braves will not make the playoffs this year. They need to get ready for next season when hopefully Hampton and Gonzalez will be back. Trading Pillsbury Doughboy Mcbride was a good start. Next, I would get rid of Davies, Orr, and Woodward who combined are less than average players. Buddy should be the full time BP pitcher. Everybody hits homeruns, everybody scores when he’s serving it up. Finally, I would trade Andruw to a team like the White Sox or Houston for some of their starting pitching. He should be embarassed by his performance, oh wait, has he ever cared with that sh!! eating grin on his face all the time.

By Bill Pastuch

June 21, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this

Andruw has never grown up and matured either as a ballplayer or as a person.

His stance at the plate is all wrong and won’t listen to people who try to correct it.

All he has to do is take a close look at all the good hitters in both leagues and adapt.

He’s way out of whack on his balance and is too damned spread out, keeps upper cutting the ball to the infield swings on too many first pitches, takes on strikes and swings at balls, tries to hit a home run every time he comes to bat.

He smiles on his way back to the dug out after a pitiful at bat, he’s not serious about the game, he thinks it’s funny even with all that money he’s raking in for a sub-par performance.

I think the Braves ought to trade him and get a starting pitcher or two that would improve the ball club more than Andruw’s defense and rookie offense.

The book on him is out all over the league and he’s too dumb to figure it out.

It’s never dawned on him that baseball is more a game of singles and doubles than home runs.

Now Frenchy has fallen into the same mold as Andruw. Maybe Bobby should not allow him to sit next to Andruw on the bench.

Whatever Andruw is suffering from, Frenchy is catching it too.

By TN Jeff

June 21, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

The Braves have lost the drive to win. They look content to go through the motions and play out .500 season (at best). They’ve learned the don’t panic mentality from their manager. No panic all the way out of the playoffs. Kind of like waiting for someone to hit a homerun rather than playing smart and moving runners over into scoring position. Though I’ve watched it for years, still find it amusing that Cox pitch-hits a position player for a pitcher only to have that player unsuccessfully attempt a bunt and then strike out.
Pitching - clean house save Smoltz & Hudson & bring up all minor league players

By Indifferent

June 21, 2007 1:00 PM | Link to this

Hey Matt,

Your last tooth just fell out. Now go back to selling your boiled peanuts by the roadside. Moron.

By Kamal Mourad

June 21, 2007 1:02 PM | Link to this

We are not even able to hit ONE ball !!! Come on, guys!!!

By K-Dogg

June 21, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this

I understand now! The Braves have some incriminating photos of Andruw and are forcing him to tank his season in order to re-sign him at a lower rate…Mr. Shuerholtz, you’re quite a shrewd operator!!

By bmont

June 21, 2007 1:05 PM | Link to this

streaky/poor hitting+weak pitching staff=’07 braves. they were completely exposed the last two games against a good, not great red sox squad. the braves are going to get WORKED by the TIGERS this weekend. there is no way the braves can put up enough runs against one of the best pitching rotations (even with a recovering k rogers). the tigers will put up 10+ runs each game this weekend and the braves will sink deeper in the nl east. i’m sorry, but they suck and aren’t entertaining in the least bit to watch. the only reason i’m going to the games this weekend is to see the pitching and hitting display put on by the tigers.

By tim

June 21, 2007 1:05 PM | Link to this

native atlantan. sorry we don’t have 200 million to buy championships but we do have more division titles in the last 15 years than anyone in baseball. Have you been to a Thrashers games? If you had you would know something about it instead of the negative bs that you are spouting.

By K-Dogg

June 21, 2007 1:06 PM | Link to this

What do you mean we’re still paying Mike Hampton?!!!! WTF!!!?

By Scott from Dacula

June 21, 2007 1:09 PM | Link to this

John Schuerholz has to stop being “shocked” by the “monopoloy” money that is thrown at quality starting pitching during free agency.

If he continues to draft outfielders and infielders with high draft choices, we have no choice but to pay the piper in the free agent marketing.

Say goodbye to Andruw, and say hello to Mark Buerhle.

By Matt

June 21, 2007 1:15 PM | Link to this

I’m guessing Indifferent is a Boston fan.

By South Ga FAn

June 21, 2007 1:16 PM | Link to this

The Braves front office is smart. Lets trade McBride with a 3.60 era for some bum with a 4.79 era. That adds up. I guess that’s why we keep Andrew he’s hitting .202.

By Zoldars

June 21, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this

Just a few quick comments here:

For one, marta is an option. And for young strapping lads such as myself and my cronies, it can be a fun entertaining trip. However, parking can still be hard to come by at the marta station and it is still going to take you 30-45 minutes once you get on marta to go to the game.Even when you hit up a marta station in ATL. AND they just raised the prices for marta tickets. Plus, the braves bus is an extra dollar. Not particularly convenient or necessarily that cheap, (its what, 2.25 each way plus the bus. give or take) but there are a lot of regulars and it can be fun.

Tickets! SOOOOO cheap its ridiculous. 1 dollar tickets; 5 dollar tickets; 2 for tuesdays….all the time. Not an excuse.

Parking- sucks. but parking at the boys and girls club lot next to the, well, ghetto i guess, was always a good time and not too expensive. What it really boils down to is the traffic, and that is understandable, cause it always sucks. Northbound, southbound- all crappy.

Now, speaking of crappy, the braves are seriously swooning.

We need one proven immediate bat with big numbers, and 2 starting pitchers. How do we do this, you ask? sell the farm. I mean, how many more baby braves do we need to take on? Salty and escobar i would of course like to keep, but itll be the same thing every year. Some young gun is gonna impress the hell out of us and then what? You’ll have a catcher signed for six years that cant catch and forgets how to hit, and a rocket armed outfielder who hit 500 for the first two months of his career and then becomes average joe.

Proven vets now. Spare no expense

By Lex Luthor

June 21, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this

Q: Why did the center fielder cross the road?

A: To chase another outside pitch

By Randy

June 21, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

First of all why have the braves not gone after the likes of Aaron Harang of the Reds? If they are in the sell mode I would do anything within my power to get this guy and/or even the Sheilds guy from the Devil Rays…None of you may know whom I’m talking about but go look at the numbers and translate that to them being on the Braves…Great Success…Yes!

By Eugene

June 21, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

I am just sick of the whole thing. Yes Andruw has been bad this season. But its not all his fault. The Management did not get a pitcher. 1st Base is a black whole and we had not LF until Willie Harris got here. We need to quit being cheap or we will be revisiting the late 70’s again. And Chipper will be hurt until the cows come home. I would be more upset if it did not happen every year… FIND SOME BALL PLAYERS!!!!!!!!!!

By Who Cares

June 21, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this

Who gives a F**K!

By Lex Luthor

June 21, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this

Q: Why did the center fielder cross the road?

A: His hand was stuck on a beer truck.

By Leads36

June 21, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this

EVERYONE NEEDS TO RELEX!!! It seems that every year for the past 3 seasons we have this similar conversation…”whats wrong with the braves, and how can it be fixed?”

The truth is, there is nothing wrong with the Braves. Despite the injuries, Bobby still has the Bravos at the top of the division, and in the wild card chase. We have recently been the victims of an unbalanced interleague schedule, but that is no need to panic.

Last season we were ten blown saves away from the wild card. Unfortunately, Wickman came along to late.

The bottom line is this…Andruw will hit, Chipper will play hurt (and stil hit), Hudson and Smoltz will once again find their form, and as long as wel got Bobby and John, we gonna be in this thing.

So, everyone relax, and remember, ITS ONLY BASEBALL!!!

By Yars

June 21, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

There aren’t a lot of hard-core Braves fans anymore. Most, especially the ones that attend games at the Ted, are casual fans. Very few follow the team on a daily basis during the season & even in winter like most of us who blog on here do. Like LaRoche once said, Braves fans are spoiled. I don’t care how many Red Sox fans there are, bandwagon fans or not, Turner Field is the Braves home. Having Red Sox fans make more noise & cheer for their team, who was the visiting team mind you, was not only pathetic & disappointing, but downright embarrassing. Was it that those so called Braves fans were on valium or got stoned in the parking lot before those 3 games against Boston? There was no excuse for this. Those of us on here are definitely a small minority. Man, if I had been at the Ted last night & some Red Sox fan was dissing my Braves, I would get in their face & talk *hit. They’re in my house, not the other way around. I don’t care what the score is. All these Sox fans mocking the chop, cheering louder than the home teams crowd, talking *hit about your team, & you do nothing? Braves players aren’t stupid. I’m sure there are some that must think their fans are the most non-committed, non-loyal fans in MLB. Hypothetically speaking, if the Braves relocated, or were even contracted, I truly believe there wouldn’t be much outcry. The reaction would be slim to none. Very little.

By benjamin

June 21, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this

HEY Liberty and Mr. McGuirk - I don’t think this novel idea of a combo of youth and veterans is working. Enough already. Spend a little money.

By K-Dogg

June 21, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this

Turner Field couldn’t be in a worse part of town…if it was anywhere north of I-20, you can guarantee there would be a lot more sellouts and big crowds…nobody wants to drive down to that ghetto dump of a neighborhood (much less take MARTA).

By joeybagofdoughnuts

June 21, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

Hey for those who want people to make the drive downtown the crime zone where the Braves play, I say what? Who wants to spend over an hour in traffic at $3 a gallon to watch millionaires dog it! Support the Braves now, come on next year there will be four or five new guys on the field, you have to play fantasy baseball just to keep up with the players. The Braves, nor MLB do not care at all about the city of Atlanta. I saw an interview with Smoltz during the rain delay and he said that he made a “Sacrifice” to play in Atlanta, he could have made more money else where. What a joke these rich overplayed, babied, players are today. There are several less costly, more exciting things to do in Atlanta then go and sit and pay $8 a beer a $6 for water downed coke at a Braves game. There are better things to do in Atlanta then to sit and watch loser MLB!

By jbaker

June 21, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

I am loving those who think that Red Sox fans are “bandwagon” fans. That’s good stuff. Perhaps you need to look up the definition of the term. In any event, the vast, vast, vast majority of New Englanders down here do pull for the Braves, just not against the Sox. I was at the Sat. night Cubs game pulling for them. All my buddies pull for them. So please, think before you write on these boards. And look to yourselves when discussing the problem the Braves have getting fans in the seats.

PS: the Braves should have traded Andruw when he had some value. He never hit for average and always struck out. One of the laziest players I have seen. No interest in learning how to hit. And Jeff Francour is right there with him. A complete waste of talent because he refuses to learn how to hit. Keep swinging at that first pitch all the time Jeffy, you mental midget.

By Jaye

June 21, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this

I think the Braves players should donate their prorated salaries based on the number of games lost since last season to charity. Donate that money to inner city baseball or something. Maybe that way they can actually be involved in producing some semblence of a future Championship-worthy major league baseball team for Atlanta. How’s that for venting? I can do better…

By Stuart

June 21, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

The braves are a regional team. That is the issue, not whether Atlanta is a sports town. Atlanta is a great sports city, the fans do fine, and I guarantee you there are many many diehards, they just either dont have disposable income or dont live close to Turner Field. That is why the stadium is never full.

On to the team itself. It is getting ugly. 9 under .500 since the great start. The rotation is a joke. If I was JS I would make some calls. The first one is to the Chi Sox and see if they want Andruw straight up for Buerle. Both have expiring contracts, Chi needs and OF, and we need a SP, and the fans of both teams hate the guy getting shipped out. If they do then the deal is done. If they want us to throw in Escobar, (salty is too valuable, and Uribe is old so it kind of works) you ask for Garland, if they say yes, done. The next place I call is Tampa Bay and see if they still love Chuck James and see if I can get an OF from them. The next thing I do is call Cincy and see what it will take to get Adam Dunn (to play at 1B), if it does not take Salty to do that deal then trade is made. Then my big play is Salty (or McCann, because his contract is very reasonable to most team) to Oakland for any of the following, Harden, Haren, or Blanton AND Street.

Now that I have had my fantasy time. The braves just dont look like they are happy or like each other. The young guys are too busy living the life and not applying themselves. The old guys are to fragile and are babying their bodies. The “middle aged guys” are not tough or very talented. Stuff needs to change. The Sox look like they like each other. They play loose. They play hard and make all the plays. Maybe it is time for music in the clubhouse or random hugs, or rally caps or something. Something has to change.

By bubba55Ball

June 21, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

This team is going through a reconfiguration period. Chipper is the leader and stays hurt. Andrew isn’t hitting is probably will not be there next year. Whe have been throught a 15 straight period of successful baseball, making the playoff and 1 WS ring. Yes only 1 but darn, it took Bosox, Chisox years and dont’ forget the Cubs with their loyal fans also. Our minor league is depleated of quality starters and the braves needs to stock up on young pitchers again.

Give them 1-2 years then we will see.

Bobby Cox, HOF for sure.

By Keith

June 21, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

I’ve lived in Atlanta since I was little - so I’ve grown up loving the Braves. But to hear people say that transplanters from other parts of the country should abandon their old team is ridiculous. It’s about staying loyal. Does a transplant from Boston call Boston his or her HOMETOWN? Yes. So why should the Braves be his or her HOME TEAM? Stupid. I know so many people (and yes, many Red Sox fans) who live in Atlanta and stay true to their Sox. That’s the way it should be. If people want to change their allegiances, for whatever reason, then that’s fine. But to expect them to do so just because they live here? Now that’s dumb.

GO BRAVES! (Whether I live in Atlanta, Idaho, or Japan.)

By SaltyWoody

June 21, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

You know what the real problem is? The fans aren’t rabid enough and those that are direct all their energies towards complaining and bickering.

What the team needs is a loyal fanbase that backs them up day in and day out.

All the calls for trading Andruw and firing Bobby and overhauling the team are nonsensical.

Start supporting the great team you already have.

I mean, honestly, do you all realize how good this team is? Our biggest power hitters have been injured or mired in awful slumps. We have two of five starting pitchers keeping us in games. We lost one of our two biggest free agent acquisitions for the year. And we’re 1 1/2 games behind what was supposed to be the best team in baseball.

This team is amazing…and homegrown, not the store-bought product so many teams run out there.

You couldn’t ask for a better mixture of young, organic talent and veteran leadership with team loyalty.

What’s going to be funny is watching everyone jump back on the bandwagon when the Braves make the playoffs and start taking teams apart.

By Fastfoodfreak

June 21, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this

I agree that there’s nothing wrong with Boston fans coming down to support their team. Still a free country. However, I think many of them probably live in Atlanta. I’m from Knoxville, TN, and don’t think for a second that if I moved to GA that I’d shed the orange and white. Never! Go Vols! Chris, I’m guessing your from TX. Hope you haven’t been washed away. My Dad in law lives in N. Richland Hills. Love the Metroplex every time I go. I think the Braves need to shake things up a bit, but you have to admit, it’s still a long way to go, and the fact is we’re still just a game and a half out. This team is betetr than the way they’re playing, and I have to believe they’ll get better. I said it last night, and I’ll say it again, this team from Boston will beat other teams 11-0, 14-0, whatever. They’re just THAT GOOD!
I do have a bit of a problem with TP as a hitting coach, just because he hasn’t been out of the game that long (as a player) and therefore is “just one of the guys” A coach has to command respect in order to get the players to listen to him.

By K-Dogg

June 21, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

**jbaker wrote:

PS: the Braves should have traded Andruw when he had some value. He never hit for average and always struck out. One of the laziest players I have seen. No interest in learning how to hit. And Jeff Francour is right there with him. A complete waste of talent because he refuses to learn how to hit. Keep swinging at that first pitch all the time Jeffy, you mental midget.**

I was right there with you on the first point, jbaker. Andruw should have been traded when he actually had some value. Now, we’re pretty much saddled with his lazy a*.

On you second point, I think we need to give Francour a little more time to develop. This is only his second season…he’s probably the best young RF in the game right now. If he’s still swinging at everything thrown him way in another 5-10 years, then we can throw in the towel.

By RCHOUND

June 21, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

Remember how good McBride was when he came up and Leo was still in Atlanta.It seems that Atlanta’s pitching problems began when Leo left town. McBride will now be with a solid team and Atlanta will regret the move.

By Stuart

June 21, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

The braves may be the slowest team I have ever seen. When they arent striking out or taking bad ABs and not moving runners over or refusing to make productive outs. they GIDP. It is sickening.

The braves have no speed. The braves’ power has gone down the drain. The starting pitchers do not allow any momentum to be carried over game to game because they are so inconsistent. The bullpen and defense have been average at best, AT BEST. Another big run aint coming. It wont come with this rotation or with this lineup that K’s 10-12 times and hits into about 2 DPs every night. When they hit the ball out of the park, they are tough. That is why when they win they look really good. The ball leaves the park, but they are not tough enough to grind out games where the ball is not flying out and that is why the losses are so one sided. That and the pitching. It is just getting depressing.

By BamaBrave

June 21, 2007 1:59 PM | Link to this

Interesting take, Yars. If the Braves were relocated, I suspect the loudest cry would come from the fans outside the metro Atlanta area…

By Yars

June 21, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this

Man, I am sick & tired of hearing about how the season is still early. Bull *hit. Pretty soon, the season won’t be so early. We are very lucky that the Mets haven’t ran off with the NL East already. We are lucky we’re 1.5 games back, not 8. Hell, we should be 2 or 3 games in front of the Mets. Our #1 concern right now is our starting pitching. The real Carlyle showed up last night & got rocked. I knew his start against Cleveland was a fluke. Davies isn’t hurt, so what’s his excuse? I’ll tell you. He has yet to prove he can win games at the MLB level on a consistent basis. I wish JS would dump him right now. Don’t expect Cormier to come back from his rehab stint & start pitching lights out anytime soon. I still haven’t given up on James. I think he’s capable of winning 3 or 4 starts in a row. I will say this, the Braves will not make the playoffs with a starting rotation of Smoltz, Hudson, James, Davies, Carlyle/Cormier. We need a quality #3 starting pitcher now. Smoltz & Hudson are fragile pitchers. I really don’t care if every team in MLB is looking for starting pitching. What is going to happen is Schuerholz will pull the trigger a little too late. Just like last season when he addressed the bullpen/closer too late. If he would have done something last June, we would have got the NL wildcard. Mark my words, you will see both the Mets & Phillies do whatever it takes to make the postseason pretty soon. Sometimes you gotta take chances. A trade can make your team, or it can backfire on you. I am not so wooried about our offense. Sure, Andruw is a bust this season, & Francoeur is swinging at everything again, & you just never know what to expect from Chipper. But, I think players like KJ, Harris/Diaz, Edgar, could all go on some wild, insane tear and carry this team.

By Fastfoodfreak

June 21, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this

Willie Harris made a couple of great plays at the end. think he want’s a starting job?

I hope Druw was paying attention. Maybe if he realizes his job is threatened, he’ll take it more seriously.

By John Q. Public

June 21, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this

Warriors: Harris, Renteria, Diaz, Johnson, Salty, JS, Soriano, Smoltz, Yates

Horses: Francoeur, McCann, Pena, Hudson, Moylan, Wickman, James, Viarreal, Escobar, Cox, Thorman

Donkeys: C. Jones, A. Jones, Orr, Woodward, Colyer, Paronto, Davies, the submariner guy that gives up the grand slams

Keep the warriors, utilize the horses or dangle as trade, and jettison the donkeys.

By Lex Luthor

June 21, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this

Q: Why did the center fielder cross the road?

A: To wash your windshield

By StingerSplash

June 21, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this

The problem still lies with the starting pitching, even after back to back shutouts against Josh Beckett (who’s a stud) and Julian Tavarez (Julian Tavarez? Are you kidding me? But he has pitched well for most of the season). It’s time for the Braves’ homegrown pitchers, Davies especially and James to a lesser extent, to s—- or get off the pot. You can’t have three of your five starting pitchers good for not even six innings every time out, especially when they pitch consecutively in the order. You’ll burn out a bullpen faster than the Yankees. Salty needs to play a little more behind the plate, even if only to give McCann more of a break (that dude does look like he’s playing hurt, even if he won’t say it). If the Braves deal Escobar (I hope not), they better get something good in return, because that young man’s stock is only rising every day. Does anyone else think of Frankie Cabrera when he’s at the plate? Similar stance, same number. There’s very little to be done with Andruw. A trade is nigh impossible because he’s a 10-5 guy. You can’t sit him down for an extended stretch and start someone else because he’s ANDRUW FREAKIN’ JONES and he’s going to be a FREAKIN’ HALL OF FAMER. He’s got more Gold Gloves than most people have pairs of socks. He’s got 350 homers. And he’s not even hitting his weight. He’s either got to snap out of it or… maybe Shane Eckardt and Jeff Gilooly are out of the pokey and need some extra work, if you know what I mean.

By Stone7

June 21, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this

In April we looked like a World Series contender, in May we dominated the Mets again! And now halfway thru June we couldn’t even dominate the little league world series!!! It’s either we get great pitching and no offense or we get great offense with poor pitching. Smoltz can’t do it all!

By Coleman

June 21, 2007 2:25 PM | Link to this

im not the biggest baseball fan but i will follow the braves every game… it seems like we win now as often as cox gets tossed which hasnt been lately…i will be at the game friday and i am expevting to see some hungry braves players who hopefully will read this vent and get some fire out of it!

By BamaBrave

June 21, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

Now we know what most MLB fans feel, most of the time. Our team kinda stinks, and no quick-fix trades are really going to help. We’re a leaky ship… But, it’s OK. The Braves are my team. We are spoiled, and the only thing that will restore perspective is a down year or three. When we cycle back into the upper echelon of teams, maybe Braves fans will appreciate things a liitle more…

By Tee O

June 21, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this

First I’d Like to say is Atlanta fans a the worst fans in America. Since when did Turner Field move to Boston? This 3 game series was the worst. Can you blame the Braves for getting Blasted on the field when their own fans won’t show up to show any support this is just utterly ridiculous. REAL FANS STEP UP AND SUPPORT NOT SELL THEIR TICKETS TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER!

By Beau Vighn

June 21, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this

Why in the world is escobar and salty not in the line up. Put them somewhere and for goodness sakes, let andrew jones watch from the bench. Willie has proven to be a productive player. Booby Cox and his loyalty to old washed up players is what kills this team. It was embarrassing to hear so many cheers from Red Sox fans in our home stadium.

By JDG123

June 21, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this

I agree that attitude is neraly everything. It is so refreshing to see guys like Willie Harris and Yuniel Escobar giving it their all. Equally exciting to see a veteran like John Smoltz fight through the pain to play.

A few others (Cipper Jones) have no desire for the game at all. I remember the young Chipper and how much he seemed to care. After his personal problems, Chipper has been nothing but a grouchy excuse maker. He is constantly missing, looks bored beyond belief, and is a bad influence on our younger guys. We may be stuck with Chipper but please let Escobar play 3rd. He wants it.

By Turnin2

June 21, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this

*Remember how good McBride was when he came up and Leo was still in Atlanta.It seems that Atlanta’s pitching problems began when Leo left town. McBride will now be with a solid team and Atlanta will regret the move.”

UHHHH… NO — Leo left town because he knew there were no longer any self made STARS like he’d had here in the past… The only thing good to say about Leo is that he was smart enough to know WHEN to leave town… ask the O’s fans - I’m sure they’d be more than happy to tell you about how wonderful he’s been with mediocre pitching….

By DAWGMA

June 21, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this

Trade Hudson back to the American League. He is an American League pitcher. I like the guy but he has an “it’s ok to give up 5 runs” mentality. Trade em now and get something great in return.

The same goes for Andruw. Trade em so we can get something for him now. Untill we trade him, he needs to bat 8th. No sense in putting a guy thats not hitting well in the 5 spot. All he does is leave men on base. He has to be leading the league in that category by far.

By Andy

June 21, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

I have to say that I felt very embarrassed when you would hear the “Let’s go Red Sox” chant from the out field whenever the Sox did something good. Watching the game on TV, I would almost forget that we were playing at home because of all the RedSox fans! I try to go as often as possible, but getting to Turner Field by 7pm is a near impossibility unless you leave work at like 3pm… Why didn’t they build a marta terminal at TURNER FIELD!!!

By Ben S.

June 21, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

GO BRAVES!!!!! The best franchise in our town, and all you can do is bash them. Look at the Hawks and Falcons…..what a mess. I am grateful that we do have at least one winning team in town.

By DAWGMA

June 21, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

We will never regret trading McBride. He was nothing and will always be nothing.

By KillerR

June 21, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this

Every one of you are complete idiots and need to realize what we have in this baseball team. This team won 14 divison titles in a row. We should be gratful for what they have given this city and be thankful we dont live in Kansas City or Baltimore. Winning games has nothing to do with attendance at baseball games. Just look at the Marlins. Also, what you must understand is that this is a football town. I could care less about football but this town loves it and thats the way it is. Atlanta’s great about supporting the Falcons when they go 6-10, but the Braves arent marketed as well as the falcons are. Dont get me wrong. I hate seeing the Braves lose, but they are only 1 1/2 games behind one of the best teams in baseball. The Braves will pick back up and get over these bumps in the road(especially interleague play). Then theyll make a run at the division and the LCS. Look folks, this is a very good team that will develope into a great one. So if you love the braves then love’m. If you dont then dont.

By Michael Scharff

June 21, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this

Andruw Jones has got to go while we can still get some value for him, and before Boras tries to hold us for ransom with a new contract. Andruw has indeed made many gave saving defensive plays over the years. However, even though he still makes spectacular catches, he can no longer throw anybody out. And, his offense is just plain pathetic. I’m not sure quite why Bobby is so enamored of Andruw, but he loves him.

By genuinebravesfan

June 21, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this

Braves Emplode At The Ted This is freaking scarry. First pitch swinging. Why can’t these guys learn to make the opposing pitcher show them at least one pitch before flailing at pitches that are 8 to 10 inches off the plate (Francoeur).The 2007 edition of the Braves are as streaky as a dirty windshield. As for Andruw, I agree with a stint on the DL (for a sore whatever) and a visit to the minors to see if he can even hit their pitching. He sure can’t hit Major League pitching right now. This team looks very lethargic at this stage in the season. They all need a kick in the seat or something to get them going. If you have great pitching (which we don’t right now) what good is it if you can’t score a few runs? C’mon guys, be more selective at the plate and just maybe the opposing pitchers will give you something better to hit. Maybe JS has something in the works for out starting rotation. Davies and Caryle are just not getting it done. James may finally come around. We for sure need two more starters from somewhere. Maybe a miracle will happen but a visit to the postseason just may be a dream in 2007.

By Wilroy

June 21, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

Let’s face it. The Braves are not a very good team. We have one stopper - Smoltz. Hudson is quirky and cannot be depended on from one game to another. The rest of the starters are simply a crap shoot. Andruw is just pitiful, hovering around the Mendoza line. Chipper is so fragile we never know when he will be on the DL next. We have a group of rookies trying to uphold the Braves tradition of winning, but they cannot be counted on in the clutch without some seasoning. The one real stabilizing effect is Renteria who is performing like a real pro. And the two guys in left field are doing the job. Francoeur cannot resist swinging at every first pitch thrown to him and gets himself out much more often that does the opposing pitcher. McAnn has been hurt and is not performing like he did last year. So how in the world can we expect much more than a .500 ball club this year? Without an infusion of competent starting pitchera and additional hitters who can be counted on to maintain a reasonable average and hit in the clutch, this club will go nowhere this year. All the talk about Bobby Cox working miracles is silly. He is not on the field making plays and cannot put a winning club together if he doesn’t have the experienced talent he has had in the past. Quit dreaming and face reality. As presently configured, this team is incapable of winning the division, let alone the NL title.

By DAWGMA

June 21, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

James reminds me of a young Glavine. Remember folks, Glavine was AWFUL when he came in the league. James was 11-4 last year and is hovering arond .500 this year. Hopefully he will only get better.

Soriano should be the closer. Wickman doesn’t throw hard enough. How many slow pitching closers are there in the league? None. Use Wickman as the setup man for Soriano.

Put Salty at 1st. Trade Thorman and get something for him. I love him and he plays hard but he just ain’t getting it done.

Make Harris permanent in left. We need his bat and his speed on the bases cause we have none as a team. He might finally be the leadoff man that Furcal never was.

Keep Andruw in center for his defense. Move him to 8th in the lineup till he proves himself worthy. Batting spots should be earned.

Platoon Escobar with Chipper and Renteria. This will allow the vets to rest and alow Escobar to play at a pretty good clip and get up to speed. His natural position is shortstop but he can play third as well.

Woodward and Orr can pitch run.

Diaz gets kinda screwed but maybe make him the pinch hitter.

By Paul In Richmond

June 21, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

Those of you yelling about pitching need to notice that NO pitching would have won last night. We did not score a run.

Major league teams cannot win without scoring a run and this bunch does not make good contact with the ball. It is either a double play grounder or a home run. That has been the hitting style of too many braves for too long. And that is not how Pendleton teaches it.

That style works if your pitching holds the other side to 1 or 2 runs and you get a big hit. When you need to scratch out a few runs (because of average pitching or nagging errors) then you HAVE to have some contact hitters. We have three or four and they all bat in the top of the order. The rest are all wiffing and blaming the pitching.

By Mark

June 21, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this

I guess Andruw doesn’t deserve all the blame, but I’ve been saying for years that he is OVERRATED!! Sure he makes some great catches, but he’s never impressed me with the bat. Everyone talks about him averaging 36 hr’s and 100 rbi’s, but that’s the AVERAGE player these days. It’s not like 20 years ago, when that lead the league. You can argue with me all day, but he has NEVER been clutch late in the year in BIG games. If he does warm up at some point this year, the Braves better trade him and get something while the can. He’s NOT worth the 20M that he’s going to be looking for!! I LOVE the BRAVES, but that’s just the truth. I said that before his dreadful start this year.

By jeremyoo7

June 21, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

Trade Andruw Jones now if anyone will have him!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

He is overrated get real!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Nick

June 21, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

Bottom line is I went to two games and the Braves didn’t score once while getting lit up. Pathetic.

I wish we would sell out more often but not at the extent of having that many out-of-towners. They were coming out of the woodwork!

By humbug

June 21, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

By Terry YOung

June 21, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this

The time has come to trade Andruw jones for 2 established pictures. He , according to an article several weeks ago basically stated that he was a pull hitter and that is that….well, he needs to be more open minded and stanced to hit the ball where it is pitched like Willie Harris…..trade andruw and get something for him….before its too late…..or bench him for about a week, let him watch a real hitter…..Willie Harris!

By braves fan

June 21, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this

WHERE’S THE GOOD YOUNG PITCHING THAT THE BRAVES ARE SUPPOSED TO BE GOOD AT DEVELOPING? They haven’t produced a top of the rotation starter since Kevin Millwood. Chuck James has potential to be a good #3 starter. But that’s the best the Braves have come up with since Millwood left. And before that it was Smoltz, Avery and Glavine. I think the Braves may have struck gold with those three (remember Maddux was a free agent import) and have been resting on the reputation that those guys created ever since. Have they produced major league pitchers? Yes. But most of them (aside from a Jason Schmidt) are no more than back of the rotation guys with other teams. Why are there no good starters from the farm? I know they like Harrison and Jo Jo Reyes, but they are at least a season away from even sniffing the bigs. I think the Joey Devine pick may turn out to be a mistake. They needed a closer for the big club, but were foolish to draft Devine for that job and rush him up that season. They needed to use those picks on starters.

By CM

June 21, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this

Andy you hit the nail on the head. I agree it’s borderline impossible, for folks living outside the city (which by the way are the folks who want to go to games) to make it to Turner Field by game time. MARTA and that shuttle business (nevermind the Underground Armpit) is a joke. There needs to be a station at Turner Field. While RELIABLE, CONVENIENT PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION (A TRAIN STOP IN CASE YOU WEREN’T PAYING ATTENTION) would solve the logistical problem for many of us, what it wouldn’t do is fix the fact that there are a gazillion non-Braves, perhaps bandwagon ‘other’ fans living in this city. I’ve always been a die-hard Braves fan and it makes my skin crawl to hear any other teams chant, spewing from the fans in the seats. (Thank goodness I was at the Monday night game b/c OUR TEAM shut them up) It has to be discouraging to the players to hear that garbage at home. They’re major leaguers now for sure, but they still thrive on support the same way they did when they were young.

I don’t fault the ‘fans’ for coming out to support ‘their’ team, but obviously there’s too many tickets out there available and too many fair-weather, corporate, season ticket holders willing to cough up their seats for cash or just b/c they could care less. It’s sad. The corporate boloney just irks me to no end, just like at Thrashers games, but I digress.

Here’s hoping the Bravos get back on track, that Andruw the Bum rides the pine for a while (or maybe even a bus), Yunel (and Willie) get to play somewhere and Chipper gets well for good. Oh and that we find 3 1/2 good starters. (Hudson’s alright 1/2 the time)

I’ll love ‘em no matter what, but it stinks to watch them lose like this. They may not have all the right components right now, but they are a better team than they have looked lately.

Go Braves!

By Randall

June 21, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this

Will somebody tell Andruw Jones to stop grinning when he strikes out. It makes you think that he doesn’t care, is on something, or both

By Yars

June 21, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this

The LF platoon is working just fine, for now. I can’t see Bobby making Harris the everyday LF because he can’t hit LH pitching. Far more important issues to address such as starting pitching & a decent bat off the bench. Thor is starting to pick it up a bit, Frenchy needs to watch some video of his at bats from April when he wasn’t swinging at every pitch, & what can I say about Andruw that hasn’t been said already? As for Chipper, we’ll be lucky is he plays in 90 games this season. There are positives for this team. Right now, Kelly Johnson is the mvp of the Braves. I hope Edgar isn’t overlooked for the all star game, McCann is definitely playing hurt, yet I still salute him for giving all he’s got every at bat & behind the plate. I wish there were room for both Salty & Escobar in the lineup. Perhaps they could shake things up a bit. They both have proved already they are ready to be everyday players.

By khalif

June 21, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this

why do the braves continue not to panic? why isnt this team trying to coordinate a big time trade deal? its almost like they just want to only win when tim hudson, and john smoltz pitch. dont even mention their offensive woes. one game they rack up 8 runs, the next the barley get one. what more can they do until someone says its time to play like major leagures

By jason

June 21, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this

Just my opinion. The Braves are through for the year. They will fade after the all-star break. Shoot, they are already starting to fade. They have only one, yes one reliable starter(Smoltz). Hudson was a wasted trade. James is not even a #3. Carlyle has piched just enough that other teams have figured him out.Davies, as much as I lke him and his talent, I don’t think he has the B—-s to pich in the the Majors. We also have an anemic offense. Can someone hit the ball consistently. From what I have seen, Chipper, and Willie are the only 2 to do so. Sorry, forgot Edgar. We just don’t have enough talent. It’s a shame too, seeing how overrated the Mets are. How in the blank can you get held pretty much hitless against Julian freakin Tavarez. It wasn’t the runs that upset me as much as not being able to score 1 flippin run against a guy with 14 years and a +5.00 ERA. We have the some of the cheapest and worthless fans in Pro sports. Plain to see a hell of a lot more SOX fans last night than Braves. The Falcons get the same treatment. That’s probably why neither team can get good quality free agents anymore. It’s hard to play for a team at home when you feel like you are on the road. I have been a georgia sports fan all my life. Cairo High School, Georgia Bulldogs, Atlanta Falcons, Braves, and yes even the Hawks. This is truly pathetic the support we show our teams.

By Stuart

June 21, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this

Diaz needs to be in the lineup and getting regular ABs. I hate to bust on St. Willie Harris, but he is not a good OF. He lucked up and caught that ball on the dive last night. He made that one look a lot harder than it was. Andruw makes it look easy in CF, Willie makes it look hard. If your OF is Diaz, Harris, and Francouer as most of you want it to be, then we really are screwed.

The only way this team gets on a roll is if they get another starting pitcher and McCann and AJ get going. If those two things do not happen, another distant third place is coming.

Honestly, I am tired of people bashing the doom and gloomers like me. Who have the Braves beaten in the last month? Cleveland, that is about it. A team that is 4-8 in interleague and 7-11 vs. the Marlins and Nats is not a very good team. Say what you want about being 6-3 against the Mutts, when you go 7-11 vs. the nattys and fish, it is like giving those wins back.

By whaaaa

June 21, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

If you thought there were a lot of Red Sox fans, wait until this weekend, when the tigers are in town! There are a ton of Detroit natives in this town. Kenny Rogers is going to rock smoltz.

By DAWGMA

June 21, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

James reminds me of a young Glavine. Remember folks, Glavine was AWFUL when he came in the league. James was 11-4 last year and is hovering arond .500 this year. Hopefully he will only get better.

Soriano should be the closer. Wickman doesn’t throw hard enough. How many slow pitching closers are there in the league? None. Use Wickman as the setup man for Soriano.

Put Salty at 1st. Trade Thorman and get something for him. I love him and he plays hard but he just ain’t getting it done.

Make Harris permanent in left. We need his bat and his speed on the bases cause we have none as a team. He might finally be the leadoff man that Furcal never was.

Keep Andruw in center for his defense. Move him to 8th in the lineup till he proves himself worthy. Batting spots should be earned.

Platoon Escobar with Chipper and Renteria. This will allow the vets to rest and alow Escobar to play at a pretty good clip and get up to speed. His natural position is shortstop but he can play third as well.

Woodward and Orr can pitch run.

Diaz gets kinda screwed but maybe make him the pinch hitter.

By Red Sox Nation

June 21, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this

It’s a Red Sox Nation folks. Call’em bandwagoners, call’em classless, call’em whatever you want. The bottom line is that Red Sox Nation is an equal opportunity Nation. RSN doesn’t discriminate against any race, color, or religion. The only requirement is that you cheer against the Yankees at all expense. A real Red Sox fan NEVER cheers for the Yankees, as a “real” Yankee fan NEVER cheers for the Red Sox - IT’S JUST THAT WAY!

Don’t be haters Atlanta fans, I heard my fair share of “Braves Fans” rubbing it in my face when you won game one. But as I always said, calmly, one game does not give you the series win.

I do cheer for the Braves, when they don’t play the Red Sox, heck I want them to get to the World Series, that way I’ll get to see the Red Sox for at least two more games, without having to travel.

The two problems for the Braves: 1. Pitching - OBVIOUSLY 2. Situational hitting/quality AB’s. It’s the #1 problem with young teams. That’s what veteran leadership is all about. The veterans need to teach the youngr players situational hitting. The problem is that you have a guy like Andruw who doesn’t know situational hitting himself. Hitting .200 with 35-hr’s doesn’t do the team any good. But having quality AB’s, working the pitch counts will take you to the next level. It’s not a coincidence that Yankees and Red Sox lead the league in hitting every year, they also see the most pitches than any team. The bottom line is that they get to the other team’s BP. You do it early in the series and it changes the complexion of the whole series. Good Luck to the Braves and their fans, this is hoping that Red Sox Nation gets to take over the TED in the World Series!

By Amber

June 21, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this

Let me just take a moment, again, to say my bit about the Braves announcers. Look, I know they’re struggling (to put it nicely), but you’re OUR guys. Say nice things about OUR team. We’re tired of hearing how fantastic the opposition is.

And Andruw just makes me want to throttle him. “As long as we’re winning, I don’t care?” Hello????? Guess what, Druw, we’re not winning right now. Start to care. And as far as TP saying he’s overthinking things - he’s seen Andruw at bat, right? He can’t be thinking much when he hacks at the first pitch, pops it up, and nonchalantly strolls back to the dugout for a cup of Gatorade.

By the way… it’s not too early to panic now. June swoon, part two. Geez, you guys couldn’t even win for my birthday. I hate to put my Braves license frame on my new car - right now the Braves are unworthy of appearing on a quality vehicle such as mine.

I feel slightly better now.

Oh, and why must we suddenly have all this national TV airtime? Does the rest of the country really need to see the Braves fall on their faces again??

By Scott

June 21, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this

Somebody commented about ticket prices being too high.
Give me a break, you can’t afford 6 bucks? Bring your own food in if you think the food is too expensive. A lot of times I’ll buy the cokes on the outside for $1 that you pay 4.75 for on the inside. You can get season tickets for as low as $249. Try getting that deal at another stadium. I’ve got season tickets and there are always cheap seats available. I moved from CT last year and now root for the Braves. Still like the Yankees but the Braves are my #1 team now.

By DJ

June 21, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this

The Braves are on the same path they were on last year. They will not make the playoffs with their current rotation. It was very embarrassing if you were in attendance at the game last night.

By gotigers72

June 21, 2007 5:05 PM | Link to this

DOB was right in a post he had last night when he said the 4 and 5 starter spots are killing the Braves. 4 wins, 3 of which belong to Kyle Davies. 1 win for the 4 or 5 other guys that have been in those slots. That keeps the Braves from being able to go on a winning streak, because once they get to those spots in the rotation, there is lsee than a 20% chance they will win. JS needs to do something SOON.

I can’t see the plus side of trading McBride for Ledezma. McBride has an ERA a run lower than Ledezma, and Ledezma’s CAREER ERA is 5.15! Yikes. I could kind of see this coming after Monday night though. McBride was in for a mop up role, and absolutely could not get any righthand hitters out. So Bobby had to warm up Soriano and Wickman and had to bring Wickman in. He shouldn’t have had to do that in a 9-4 game, but he had no choice. I noticed when Bobby came out to take McBride out, he didn’t even give him the usual “Bobby pat on the back”. He always does that, no matter how bad the pitcher he is taking out has pitched. But he didn’t in this case. That told me that he was POed, having to warm up his 2 bullpen aces in a blowout game.

Some of you complained about Bobby using Soriano last night as the Braves were getting blown out. All relief pitchers need to work every 3-4 days to stay sharp. As you saw, Soriano looked a little stale. He hasn’t pitched in a game in several days. Just as a reference, the Mets pitched Billy Wagner for an inning last night, despite being BEHIND 8-4. The Dodgers pitched their closer, Saito last night, despite being BOMBED 12-1. Even closers and setup men need regular work to stay sharp/fresh. Don’t overwork them, but give them SOME work every 3 days at least. That would be in the 50 appearance range which is about perfect.

Just wondering if the Braves jumped the gun by signing McCann to a 6 year contract. He had a wonderful year last year, but hasn’t been too good hitting or on defense this year. I know he’s had some nagging injuries, but last year he hit the ball with authority at least once a game. This year it’s weak popups/flyballs and lots of rollover ground balls which are usually double plays if there is a runner on first, due to McCann not being fleet afoot. Hope he gets straightened out soon, because the Braves desperately need his bat.

By beezer

June 21, 2007 5:06 PM | Link to this

A few Observations:

Braves fans complaining about the Red Sox fans are: 1. jealous of Red Sox fans loyalty, 2. jealous of Red Sox fans passion, 3. crybabies that they can’t outdraw opponents at home, 4. Upset they need an organ to tell them to cheer and make noise and Red Sox fans don’t.

The most noise Braves fans made the whole series was booing Red Sox fans for cheering on their team.

Tickets are cheap. I paid $6 and was still able to upgrade to the lower levels because of all the empty seats, even with all the Red Sox fans.

MARTA to the game is easy. I took the MARTA from North Springs (northernmost staion on the N-S line) down to 5 Points and then took the Shuttle to the game. I left North Springs at about 6:15 made it to Turner Field in approximately 45 minutes. 30 minutes before game time. Enough time to buy a beer and a sausage and get to my seat before the game started. Cost me $4 round trip. Sure I wish there was a MARTA station at the stadium, but all in all, it beats the heck out of sitting in traffic for over an hour each way and paying $10-20 to park.

Concessions are expensive, but nobody is putting a gun to your head to buy $7 beers and $6 hot dogs. Eat before you go and bring in a bottle of water.

By Dan

June 21, 2007 5:16 PM | Link to this

As a Braves fan living in New Jersey, I only wish I could attend more Braves games. I have been to the Ted and I loved it. The Braves actually won! I must say the Brave fans must be half- asleep in the stands during the game. They just don’t make any noise. It’s like being in a library! Cheer this team on. Show some excitement! The Boston fans showed more life. It was a disgrace.

By Kdoc

June 21, 2007 5:19 PM | Link to this

I wish people would get off this fan support junk. So the Sox fans came out in droves? Big deal, they do that in every city. Some of you act like Braves fans were outnumbered by Cincinnati or Milwaukee fans. Get a grip. Fan support could be better but it’s not like Miami or Montreal. The crowds have been pretty good and the numbers are up from last season. It’s fine to complain about the team but to whine about being “outfanned” by BoSox people is insane.

By Smitty

June 21, 2007 5:20 PM | Link to this

All the complaining about the ushers. It makes me mad when I show up in the first inning and somebody is sitting in my seat. I say throw the bums out. I called up and got the seat I wanted, everybody else can do that as well. Ticketmaster will rarely pick the best available seat in a section.

By moe

June 21, 2007 5:20 PM | Link to this

wats up with the braves the dont have anything going pitching nor hittin and also wtf is going on with the fans wat happen to all the fans?

By Papercut

June 21, 2007 5:21 PM | Link to this

Ah people w/extremely short memories!

There have been a number of venues where Braves fans outnumbered fans of the other team. Candlestink Park was a good example of that.

I lived in Louisiana years ago and I didn’t root for the Saints because I lived there and I cheered for the Falcons.

In other words, BoSOx fans, Indians, etc. root root root for your team.

For those of you who whine about the lack of fans at a Braves game, my guess is a lot of you don’t go either.

By Mrs. Wade Boggs

June 21, 2007 5:21 PM | Link to this

RE: It’s a Red Sox Nation folks. Call’em bandwagoners, call’em classless, call’em whatever you want. The bottom line is that Red Sox Nation is an equal opportunity Nation. RSN doesn’t discriminate against any race, color, or religion. The only requirement is that you cheer against the Yankees at all expense.

What a load of horse$#!t !

By Drew

June 21, 2007 5:27 PM | Link to this

We cannot blame AJ’s woes on Terry. He is to stubborn and selfish at the bat to hit for average. TP has been trying for years to get him to go the other way. His butt needs to be on the bench until he starts trying to play for the team, and not his home run total. We want TORII!!

By tampabrave

June 21, 2007 5:30 PM | Link to this

Frenchy is mailing it in. Sit him a game or two.

By humbug

June 21, 2007 5:53 PM | Link to this

The Braves are made up of some good young players, some sorry older ones that other teams gave up on, and a few who don’t know that their salary calls for effort. This season is just going to continue to slide due to this. Maybe they should try to get some benefit from the situation by releasing a lot of the players who don’t have major league talent and fill their spots with minor league players and them get experience at the major league level. They won’t do any better but they’ll be fun to watch. Don’t wait till next season to start looking for players and don’t continue to carry the non productive players.

By Caroline

June 21, 2007 5:57 PM | Link to this

Geez, some of you fans are as whiny as your players…Kelly Johnson wants fan support? Chipper wants them to re-evaluate interleague play? Seriously, what do they pay these guys for??

As for those of you who expect us to give up home town allegiances for those of our new town?? That’s just pathetic. No wonder why the Atlanta teams have ever-shrinking fan bases. With a mindset like that, and natives moving out of the city, no wonder why they go elsewhere.

Just watch your college football and let the “real” baseball fans watch their games.

By the way, here’s a little fact that no less than 10 so-called Braves fans didn’t know: The Braves are FROM Boston- there’s more Boston history in that Braves museum than there is Atlanta or Milwaukee. Go take a look around inside. You might learn something about the game, other than the fact that most ballparks don’t have a $33 million HD monitor. Seriously, what is that crap?

By Hey Massachusetts

June 21, 2007 6:01 PM | Link to this

For the BoSox fans criticizing the South: Please note:

• The first settlement was in Jamestown not Plymouth.

• More founding fathers were from Virginia than Massachusetts.

• Virginia was a “commonwealth” before Massachusetts

• The first Thanksgiving was December 4, 1619…a year before your so called thanksgiving.

The North SUCKS and that’s why you arrogant people move to the South. Your northern land of smokestacks, gutters and cold weather is too much for your pale clammy skin…so you’re here…being highly disliked.

Have some class.

By Bugs

June 21, 2007 6:02 PM | Link to this

WHAT IS HAPPENING TO OUR BRAVES? We continue to run Andruw Jones out to hit and the opposition has to laugh at us when we do. Francouer seems to be regressing with his consistent whiffs. Tim Hudson should be embarrased. What the heck happened the guy since his Oakland A’s success? Please, John and Bobby, trade for Buerhle, start Willie Harris in CF and bat Francouer 8th.

B

By BraveRSad

June 21, 2007 6:15 PM | Link to this

Please, Please Bench A. Jones, trade him for baseballs—something. He should not be in the lineup again. Stark is correct OVERRATED OVERRATED

By steve

June 21, 2007 6:15 PM | Link to this

Steve from Peoria, Ill.This is a young team that needs one more starting pitcher and a 4th place hitter that produces; it would also help if we did not wait for 3 run hrs and tried to manufacture some runs; the new owners need to spend some money if they expect this team to make it to the playoffs; the last 4 weeks have been painful to watch and I am an optomist.

By Clark Kent

June 21, 2007 6:17 PM | Link to this

The Braves are fine! They just need a tweak here and there. Pitching is the main tweak. But the hitters will come around. Stop worrying, have some faith! Atl fans really suck at supporting their teams through thick and thin. Any sign of struggling and they want to ship people out. That’s why none of us are getting the big bucks to manage. Let the ones who have been doing it for years handle it not someone who’s a manager on their sofa for 2-3hrs. Go Bravos!!!!

By Bugsy Siegel

June 21, 2007 6:26 PM | Link to this

I don’t care what Brian Van Gorder says (and if you read his quote today about his one year at Georgia Southern, it’s unintelligible) he came in, gutted a great program and hightailed it out of there. He has no class and I’m thrilled he’s gone and Hatcher has taken his place. Go Eagles!

By Bugsy Siegel

June 21, 2007 6:28 PM | Link to this

Sorry the headline I read said to vent about anything.

By Blogger

June 21, 2007 6:34 PM | Link to this

Atlanta is a transient town and thus will always have transient fans. That said, whoever decided to put 50,000 seats in Turner Field made a huge mistake. The number should be more like 36,000 like Fenway, Wrigley, and others. The extra seats simply invite the opposition to come in and take over our games. With 36,000 seats, I can guarantee that a Braves ticket would be much hotter than it is today.

To those here who say the apathetic fans are the reason the Braves play poorly at home, I say you are demented. The play of the team drives the emotion of the fans. After Carlyle gave up 5 runs in the first last night, who in their right mind was going to get fired up?

As far as how the season will go, it’s all up to JS. Unfortunately, JS has been handcuffed for years now and provides appetizers where he used to give us entrees. I wouldn’t expect much from JS or the Braves this year. We had our chances in the 90’s and blew all but one of them. Now we have worked our way back to the dreaded “middle of the road”.

By RamblinLonghorn

June 21, 2007 6:44 PM | Link to this

The saddest part of a braves game the last few years has been watching people leave a game in the 7th inning. Pay attention on the broadcast or if you’re there. If the braves are down by 2 or more runs in the 7th, the stands lose around 1/3 of its occupants. That %#&*% doesn’t happen at Fenway.

fair-weather indeed…

By faninva

June 21, 2007 6:58 PM | Link to this

From Jason Stark’s Rumblings and Grumblings (espn.com)

The Braves, meanwhile, don’t want to wait much longer to upgrade their rotation. So we’re hearing they’ve been feeling out a bunch of teams in search of a starter — young or established — that they can slot behind John Smoltz and Tim Hudson. They’re not interested in those Mike Maroth fifth-starter type arms that are out there, though. So Buehrle, says one executive who has talked to them, “fits just about every scenario” they’re shopping for. But the White Sox haven’t flipped the “sell” switch yet. So the Buehrle Mart won’t open until at least the first week of July.

By Ralph

June 21, 2007 7:00 PM | Link to this

The Braves team is a team of “good” and “bad”. When the pitching is good the hitting is bad, when the hitting is good the pitching is bad. The two goods just can’t seem to meet, and get it going. The Braves young hitters help the opposing pitchers, by swing at everything they see, even on the ground, and if a butterfly gets close they’ll take a swing at it, etc. Frenchy will never be a top notch big leaguer, neither will Thorman because they can’t or won’t correct their bad habits which is mostly disciplined, and without disciplined they won’t stay in the big league for very long. McCann just sign a big league contract and there he goes getting hurt and not hitting half good as he did. Hopefully he won’t follow in Chipper (disable list) Jones footsteps. I wouldn’t sign Frenchy to a long term contract, or for that matter, sign neither of the existing players to more than 2 years. Again disciplined or continuity which is what the Braves lack as a team will be the main reason why the team will remain a second place team in coming years. JS can trade players until he’s blue the face, IT WON’T HELP the answer is with the manager. Bobby is a popular manage, and he was one of the best. But the team is a reflection of the manager, and right now Bobby is not giving a very good reflection. He can’t make up his mined who is going to play from one game to another and benches a player, even if the player had two hits the night before, but won’t play him the next day or for several days. When Bobby likes a player, he will leave him in even if he hits 100 A. Jones is one primary example in leaving players that not producting in for to many games. Bobby seen to have his mined somewhere else and not much on the game. As far as Salty and Escobar the Braves have two excellent future players. As far as Thorman or Frenchy the Braves should trade them tomorrow if possible.

By Danny

June 21, 2007 7:15 PM | Link to this

HEY to ALL the MORONS that keep saying “trade A jones” HE is a 10/5 player …HE WILL VETO any trade…..so enough with that. jsut hope COX bats him 8th.

jdg123…..you are a moron…CHIPPER is 1 of only a few players that are HITTING….and you bash him…shut up

and i beleive the braves will trade Y Escobar…the braves have this kid in the minors that will be the next SS after Edger is gone…his name Elvis.

and 1 more thing….frenchy is startin to make me think he might be another AJones…just not goin to be what we would all think he can be..a superstar…not bein smart at the plate….what do ya’ll think???

By Dale Murphy Rocks!

June 21, 2007 7:21 PM | Link to this

All of you so called “Braves fans” need to stop complaining and support your team. Some of these comments are not even based on facts, they are just means-spirited crap! Andruw lazy? Do we watch the same games? He makes amazing plays every game! What’s up with dissing Smoltz? He is a consistent pitcher with a winning record. The cost of attending a game? Eat at home, bring your own snacks! Cracking on the announcers? Come on they are the most enthusiastic announcers around and they love the Braves! None of you haters are true baseball fans. When my family goes to a game, it is to enjoy a ball game no matter who wins. I remember loving the Braves when I was in the third grade in the early eighties and they sucked. I didn’t care. In the nineties when they were winning, I loved them just the same. Y’all are just spoiled bandwagon fans and I’m sick of it! Support your team. I’m betting none of you could do any better! The Braves are resilient, they will come around. Andruw will come out of it, Smoltz will keep winning, and we will continue to chase the Mets until we pass them. And if they don’t, guess what? They will still have one fan!

By Najeh Davenpoop

June 21, 2007 7:21 PM | Link to this

John Thomson was unconditionally released by the Blue Jays. Would it be asking too much for the Braves to bring him back? He can’t possibly be any more inconsistent than Davies, James, or Carlyle, and the Braves wouldn’t have to give up anything to get him.

By John

June 21, 2007 7:24 PM | Link to this

Braves fans were not disgraceful this series, neither were the Braves. The Braves fans. The fans were good on Monday and even started a couple “Red Sox Suck” chants once the Braves took a commending lead. As for Tuesday and Wednesday they were given nothing to cheer about. Hudson was out-dueled by Beckett Tuesday, but keep in mind it was only a week ago that Hudson out-dueled Santana. And as for Wednesday, Carlyle was due for a bad start after 3 straight quality starts and the Red Sox aren’t exactly easy to pitch to. The Braves did the same thing last year and turned things around and fortunately the Mets haven’t ran away with the division. And for all the “Red Sox fans”, I’ve never heard more ignorant and incorrect conversations and comments than I did in this 3 game series, all of which coming for people wearing Ortiz jersies.

I asked one Red Sox fan, “How long have you been a fan…since 2004?” He replied with “No, I was a fan in 2003.” I think that sums them up pretty well.

By MrDan

June 21, 2007 7:25 PM | Link to this

Yep, never thought we’d see another June like last June. But here’s a shot at Braves’ fans. I’ve been fortunate to see the Braves at other ballparks, and most, not all, don’t need the scoreboard to light up and say “make noise”. I miss the good old days when fans went to the park to cheer their team to victory, not sit around with their stupid cell phone stuck in their ear.

By Dale Murphy Rocks!

June 21, 2007 7:25 PM | Link to this

After all that I forgot to give a shout out to Edgar! He is awesome and I hope he’s around a long time!

By b'ham dawg

June 21, 2007 7:37 PM | Link to this

I CANT WAIT till next fall. GO DAWGS!

By Madd Blawg

June 21, 2007 7:56 PM | Link to this

I’m kind’a peeved—-sort’a——-weeell—I’m not as happy as I could be. Jeepers peepers it really feels good to let go.I sure hope no kids are reading this.

By Scott

June 21, 2007 8:00 PM | Link to this

You people complaining about the ticket prices to Braves games are stupid. Do you realize how expensive it is to go see other team’s play? Especially the Red Sox? It cost 40 dollars to park to see the Red Sox. You can park for as little as 10 dollars to see the Braves. The Red Sox have the highest average ticket prices in the game. The Braves have tons of tickets for 5, 10, and 15 dollars. Turner Field has great site lines so it’s easy to see the game from wherever you sit. Fenway, not so much.

By bob

June 21, 2007 8:21 PM | Link to this

I can’t beleive that you are all saying that the NE Transplants should root for the Braves. The Red Sox are an institution and they have fans all over the world. It’s called “Red Sox Nation” and it goes on at every stadium in the country. When the Sox come to town (on the road)the home team always sells out To tell you the truth there are some Boston Braves Fans still out there

By angus

June 21, 2007 8:38 PM | Link to this

Good God…you are blaming the fans of another team for the Braves blowing games. How about you do like all the fans you complain about, go to the games. They manage to drive to the Ted, they manage to Park, they manage to get tickets. I have been reading all the excuses why Braves fans cant get to the field while complaining that others do. Makes NO sense. The Braves didnt lose because there were Sox fans there, they lost for a multitude of reasons. But believe me it wasnt because there were red sox fans in the stadium.

By Rose

June 21, 2007 8:41 PM | Link to this

ITS THE FANS FAULT!!!! not the players, the manager or the coaches!! Those mean Red Sox fans came and so our team lost. Shaking head, this is just ridiculous

By Kraw

June 21, 2007 8:44 PM | Link to this

I’ve been a Red Sox fan for years. As long as I can remember… back to the early 80’s. Sure, there are bandwagon fans, but there are probably way more true fans! So what that many live here in the ATL? I like the Braves too. They are my favorite NL team. I cheered for both teams last night, but I will always put the Red Sox first :)

To me, the problem is the fair weather fans here. Everyone loves the Braves when they do well, but loathe them when they do poorly. Red Sox fans love their team ALWAYS

By Davis T.

June 21, 2007 8:55 PM | Link to this

I think the Braves are going to be ok. I do NOT think the Braves should trade to much. We need to get a starting P. Maybe send Andruw Jones (since he will NOT be back unless he gives the Braves a discount. He looks like he has already left!)to the White Sox for Burle(sp?)and trade for Griffey. The new owners need to step it up and let the Braves fans know the Braves want to win and not just use the team as a tax write off!!!!

By John C

June 21, 2007 8:56 PM | Link to this

The South should rise again, and run ALL the yankees out. No transplant should ever be allowed into the South.

Don’t be so g******* nice to them. That’s why the idiots more here. Then they turn around and stab the South in the back!

By Rick

June 21, 2007 9:04 PM | Link to this

If ya’ll think the Red Sox embarassed the Braves…just wait til you see what the Tigers will do!

By Rose

June 21, 2007 9:08 PM | Link to this

John I know your momma didnt raise such a fool. Show some intelligence and dont make us southerners look so freaking dumb.

By tone

June 21, 2007 9:11 PM | Link to this

yeah john ‘cause all of the braves were born and bred in ‘Lanta. (note the sarcastic tone meant in this post)

By Taylor

June 21, 2007 9:12 PM | Link to this

The Braves will get hot and win the World Series. Things are looking brighter. Hudson is looking sharper, Smoltz is Smoltz, Chipper is back, and Andruw surely can’t get any worse. We’ll be fine, guys. Stop worrying.

By Thomas

June 21, 2007 9:14 PM | Link to this

Why all the talk about Salty at first base? The guy has a cannon for an arm so give him a crash course at third, it’s a reaction position and he has reaction to burn. If he can convert to a third baseman that position would be set for the next decade or more. Mr. C. Jones can then go play boo boos and dh in the junior league.

By mark

June 21, 2007 9:20 PM | Link to this

The braves will continue to suck because they can’t hit or pitch. They have streaky hitters because of a manager that sits and wait on the long ball. The braves should be playing more small ball. There is no reason that this team is close to the top in team average, yet leave so many runners on base. Everybody on that team should be required to bunt. (Yes even Chipper and Andruw). Maybe if Andruw bunted a little more, he would learn to look the ball all the way into the strike zone and have some clue as to where it is. Plus our rotation is pathetic. Hudson should have more wins, but they managed to screw that up. The lower part of the rotation is very shaky. James is mediocre, Davies suck, and Buddy is just a there. He was doing ok up until last night when he go knocked around. We as fans should just hope they stay above 500. They have no business being in the playoffs, because they would just embarass themselves. Braves Suck!

By ATLplayer

June 21, 2007 9:25 PM | Link to this

THAT WAS THE BEST TEAM IN BASEBALL WE LOST TOO! However we need starting pitching NOW!

By Tasha

June 21, 2007 9:30 PM | Link to this

I am a Cubs fan (yeah yeah boo hiss) I live north of Atlanta and ya know what I always manage to get to at least ONE game in the series. Traffic sucks prices are what they are. And ya know what else? I have a great time. I have only had ONE problem at a game but usually it is good natured ribbing etc and to say that a team lost because fans from the other side were louder than Braves fans says more about Braves Fans than anyone else. The Ted is a GREAT field and most of the fans are great, I am just glad I haven’t met people like John and others who would rather get in my face because of the team I support, than support their own team. I support the Braves when they play other teams but will Always support the CUBS when they play.

By John C

June 21, 2007 9:32 PM | Link to this

Rose, I give a f-ing g******* what some blue-bellied yankee thinks about anything. Your ilk makes me queasy.

By rose

June 21, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this

john YOU sound like a yankee, I on the other hand was born and raised here. I think YOU are a transplant, real southerners respect others and most of all respect women. My ilk is a southerner yours is just trash.

By jch

June 21, 2007 9:41 PM | Link to this

Taylor

What team are you watching???

Hudson is looking more like the past 2 years lately than the first few weeks…

Chipper is injured again - sore groin

‘druw has only gotten worse over the past several weeks batting well below .200, so yes, he can and he’s proving it

You are right on one account, Smolts is still smoltz but even he has a sore shoulder - remember he is 40, it’ll catch up with him some time and then it’s all down hill.

Thomas

Chipper’s at 3B until he drops dead, then the spot is Escobar’s - and he deserves it. So, it’s either Catcher, 1B or a trade for Salty, unfortunately, I’d love to find a spot for him as well. I do agree with your assessment, 1B is a waste of a hell of an arm and a good athlete.

By Braves Pike

June 21, 2007 9:42 PM | Link to this

Trade Andrew NOW so you can stop the bleeding and get some help. Also sit Francouer for a few games and let him think about what he is doing wrong at bat. He is reverting back to old habits and having him play every day without improving hurts not only him but also the team. Trade Chipper NOW so you can get something with value for him before he gets hurt again stopping a grounder. We are lucky the Mets are also in a tailspin or we would be 15 games out by now. Look out for Philly and Florida. They are hungrier than the Braves. And finally cut back on the prices at the stadium 5$ for a bag of peanut, 6$ for a beer $3.50 for a pretzel Give us a break.

By Jdmcpa

June 21, 2007 9:46 PM | Link to this

smoltzie is on the way out, hudson is ahead of him, and old “square jaw” blockhead hampton is gone..get it, going, going, gone…Its fun to see a pennant race, whether the teams suck or not. What the braves are doing however is kissing the wildcard chances goodbye and putting all their hopes in the dream of beating both the mets and the phils for the division title…good luck with that! As to Boston’s good fans, they do show loyalty, and thats impressive..and the reason the yanks move south is simple: the average new yorker sux..we in the south offer hospitality to all..that being said, I am a die-hard Mets fan

By John C

June 21, 2007 9:54 PM | Link to this

Rose, you ain’t nuttin but a yankee ho.

By rose

June 21, 2007 9:57 PM | Link to this

john and you aren’t southern. Southern men dont talk like you do. Stop pretending and be who you are: pure d trash. GRITS to you sweetie

By Yars

June 21, 2007 10:00 PM | Link to this

The worst that could happen is the Mets go on some insane 15 game winning streak & the Braves lose 11 out of 15, & then are pretty much out of it by august 5. Also, good to see some of you showing your Southern pride. Like some of you, I was borned/raised in the South, & proud of it and when I die, you will have to pry open my cold, lifeless hands in order to take my confederate battle flag away from me. As I enjoy saying to those who will never understand what a true southerner is all about, it’s a southern thing.

By Nola

June 21, 2007 10:01 PM | Link to this

AS I see it, there are 4 players the Braves could trade for a starting pitcher. These are the ones any team would take for a good starter. Diaz, Estabar, Saltalamacchia, and Harris. I would say trade Diaz since Cox does not use him consistantly, even though he is a 300 hitter. Then, try Villereal as a starter, start Harris in left field, use Saltalamaccia at first more, and forget the one pitcher, one inning mentality, and pitch somebody until he needs to come out.

By gotigers72

June 21, 2007 10:01 PM | Link to this

I only am able to go to a couple of games each year due to a crippling disability, spinal stenosis, the same thing Larry Munson has. But a few years ago, before the Red Sox won a WS, and really before they were even good, I went to Turner Field in back to back years when the Braves played the Red Sox. The first year I went, it was the largest crowd the Braves had that year, 50 something thousand, hardly any of which were Red Sox fans. The next year, another great crowd, hardly any of which were Red Sox fans.

But let them win ONE WS (same as the Atlanta Braves have won in 41 years in Atlanta],and let them win like they are doing this year, and the bandwagon fans jump on and flood Turner Field. I can’t say as I blame them, since their entire season at home is sold out. I thought it was kind of cool to have the fans from both teams going back and forth at each other. But Braves fans have unfairly caught flack from some players, the media, etc. Did those same players, media, etc. brag about the Braves fans attendance when 50 something thousand filled the stands in past games against the Red Sox? Methinks not. It’s easy to be a fan of a team when they are on top of the world. Seems like a lot of Red Sox fans are johnny come latelys. Now Cubs fans, you can’t accuse them of being fairweather/bandwagon fans. I know, St. Louis, Boston and Cubs fans are considered the best in the baseball world, but don’t put down Braves fans. They’re not too shabby either. If you don’t think so,just watch telecasts of their away games. I’ve seen many places where there are more Braves fans in the stands than there are home fans.

By John C

June 21, 2007 10:03 PM | Link to this

SKANK

By Marc

June 21, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this

Andruw can’t be traded, dunno why people keep asking for it when they should know by now that it’s impossible.

Don’t blame Red Sox fans for coming out, blame Braves fans for not coming out - if the Boston fans could get to the stadium, then why can’t the rest of you? I’m a Braves fan, but live in Florida; I think many of you take for granted that you can see your beloved team whenever you want, I can’t.

Our starting pitching needs one more solid arm - Smoltz, Hudson, and James are decent 1-2-3 guys, we’ve got 4 other number 5 starters that can compete for that spot all year for all I care, so what we really need is a number 4 guy, but preferably of #2 or so caliber. Our offense will be streaky all year, sorry guys that’s just how our offense is built, but the good news is we’ll go on two weeks tears now and then averaging 5+ runs a game like we did for a while last year.

Our bullpen is fine, wish Gonzo was OK, but hey, it happens. We’ll be fine as long as Soriano doesn’t get over-used.

Have we played bad lately? Yes. Are we lucky the Mets have sucked something aweful? Yes. Now let’s try to build momentum and get the lead, I think once we get the lead again our guys will fight harder to keep it.

By bravesfan

June 21, 2007 10:13 PM | Link to this

From ESPN • The Mets have been the team most linked to a Mark Buehrle trade. But the buzz among baseball people we’ve surveyed is that the Braves are much more interested than the Mets are. An official of one club that has been kicking around ideas with Mets GM Omar Minaya says this of anyone who thinks the Mets would trade Lastings Milledge for Buehrle (or any rent-a-player): “They’re nuts.” The Mets would talk about Milledge only in a deal for a power arm they could control until at least 2009. (Hmmm. Dontrelle Willis, perhaps?).

• The Braves, meanwhile, don’t want to wait much longer to upgrade their rotation. So we’re hearing they’ve been feeling out a bunch of teams in search of a starter — young or established — that they can slot behind John Smoltz and Tim Hudson. They’re not interested in those Mike Maroth fifth-starter type arms that are out there, though. So Buehrle, says one executive who has talked to them, “fits just about every scenario” they’re shopping for. But the White Sox haven’t flipped the “sell” switch yet. So the Buehrle Mart won’t open until at least the first week of July.

Here’s one more often-rumored deal you can forget: Junior Griffey to Atlanta. The Braves are focused on pitching, not bats. And they’ve been telling teams they’re not interested in dealing prospects for players who have big bucks due beyond this year. Well, Griffey has $12.5 million guaranteed for next year, plus a $16.5 million club option for 2009 — and he has made some noises he’d want that option picked up before he OK’d any trades. So never mind.

SO WHAT DO YALL THINK ABOUT ALL THESE RUMORS?

By Ralph

June 21, 2007 10:14 PM | Link to this

Fans don’t have a thing to do in the way a team plays. I think the fans in Atlanta have supported the Braves very well, now and in the past. The players who make millions should shut their mouth and play a million+ worse of baseball. With the exception of the Atlanta players which play about $10.00 worse that’s throwing in the manager. The Boston fans are great fans and the Atlanta fans are carrying their own. If a team has a defeated attitude and the players act like the world owns them a living, and just show up physically to play and mentally their mined are in their million dollar homes next to their million dollar swimming pools and not in the game, then any fan has every right not to go to the game and support a bunch of dead beats. The Braves are lucky they are only 1.5 games behind the Mets. So they better get off their rump or there abouts and start playing like a major league team, because the other teams are snapping at their heel.

By mark

June 21, 2007 10:20 PM | Link to this

The season’s over! Fan should pray that this team don’t make the playoffs. I don’t blame the fans for not coming, heck I am getting sick of these Atlanta teams stinking up the joint!

Fans in Atlanta should be fair weather/bandwagon fans because the teams haven’t given us nothing to be proud of. The Hawks are terrible and when they used to make the playoffs way back when, they couldn’ make it out of the second round. Plus they have Billy Knight as a GM! Our only hope with this team is that they don’t screw up the draft!

The Falcons can’t even have back to back winning seasons. They may not even have a quarterback this season. They have more bad seasons than good seasons.

The Braves could have given us some hope if they had just won more than one WS. They teased us with division titles and NL pennants, but when it came time for the Big Dance they just sat down. Don’t give me this crap about the team of the 90’s. The Yankees and Blue Jays have had more success than the Braves. I hate to say this but so have the Marlins. They won in 97, broke up the team, rebuilt it, and won again in 03. So the Braves never gave us any hope accept to lose when it counts.

Last but not least, you have the Thrashers (for those who are hockey fans and actually care)who pulled an Atlanta Braves by winning the division and then getting swept! I tried to root for them but they looked as if they had never played hockey!

So all you people that criticize Atlanta fans really don’t know what you are talking about. I hear people saying things like Cubs fans and Red Sox fans never turn their backs on their teams. You can’t compare those cities to Atlanta because they had some form of hope in their city. The Chicago fans had other teams that gave them a sense of hope not to turn their back on the Cubs. They have the Blackhawks, Bears, and oh by the way the Bulls who won 6 championships in 8 years. The Boston had other teams that gave them a sense of hope. They had Celtics that have had dynasties, and oh yeah the Patriots.

What kind of hope has Atlanta had. I know, the 95 Braves (our only championship in 40 years of professional sports). May be Georgia Tech in 1990 or possibly Evander Holyfield. That’s it! Atlanta fans have the right to feel the way they do. Until one of these teams establish some type of tradition, opposing team’s fans will continue to fill up our stadiums.

I am getting sick of the fans being criticized because they rather spend their money on something meaningful than these pathetic teams like the Braves! Go Fans!

By Tasha

June 21, 2007 10:22 PM | Link to this

Ralph I agree if it was THAT big of a deal teams would NEVER win on the road. I am sure it is frustrating to Braves fans to hear the other team be louder and be beat so badly, but in the end the only people to blame for that loss are on the Braves payroll! Hopefully they learned something from it and can move forward productively!

By Eric

June 21, 2007 10:24 PM | Link to this

Hey John C do you have issues with women dude?

By go braves

June 21, 2007 10:25 PM | Link to this

GO BRAVES!!!

stop your whining, we will be fine.

By mark

June 21, 2007 10:31 PM | Link to this

The season’s over! Fan should pray that this team don’t make the playoffs. I don’t blame the fans for not coming, heck I am getting sick of these Atlanta teams stinking up the joint!

Fans in Atlanta should be fair weather/bandwagon fans because the teams haven’t given us nothing to be proud of. The Hawks are terrible and when they used to make the playoffs way back when, they couldn’ make it out of the second round. Plus they have Billy Knight as a GM! Our only hope with this team is that they don’t screw up the draft!

The Falcons can’t even have back to back winning seasons. They may not even have a quarterback this season. They have more bad seasons than good seasons.

The Braves could have given us some hope if they had just won more than one WS. They teased us with division titles and NL pennants, but when it came time for the Big Dance they just sat down. Don’t give me this crap about the team of the 90’s. The Yankees and Blue Jays have had more success than the Braves. I hate to say this but so have the Marlins. They won in 97, broke up the team, rebuilt it, and won again in 03. So the Braves never gave us any hope accept to lose when it counts.

Last but not least, you have the Thrashers (for those who are hockey fans and actually care)who pulled an Atlanta Braves by winning the division and then getting swept! I tried to root for them but they looked as if they had never played hockey!

So all you people that criticize Atlanta fans really don’t know what you are talking about. I hear people saying things like Cubs fans and Red Sox fans never turn their backs on their teams. You can’t compare those cities to Atlanta because they had some form of hope in their city. The Chicago fans had other teams that gave them a sense of hope not to turn their back on the Cubs. They have the Blackhawks, Bears, and oh by the way the Bulls who won 6 championships in 8 years. The Boston had other teams that gave them a sense of hope. They had Celtics that have had dynasties, and oh yeah the Patriots.

What kind of hope has Atlanta had. I know, the 95 Braves (our only championship in 40 years of professional sports). May be Georgia Tech in 1990 or possibly Evander Holyfield. That’s it! Atlanta fans have the right to feel the way they do. Until one of these teams establish some type of tradition, opposing team’s fans will continue to fill up our stadiums.

I am getting sick of the fans being criticized because they rather spend their money on something meaningful than these pathetic teams like the Braves! Go Fans!

By Ron

June 21, 2007 10:41 PM | Link to this

Ok, here goes. Making this HUMOROUS, but true:

1: KJ is KYing the opposition better than expected 2: Renteria: ALL STAR 3: Chip chip, hooray! If healthy, MVP caliber 4: um, andruw who? BorASS 5: McCann can! (as of late). 6: Frenchy: Stop swinging at the FIRST pitch and that DOWN AND AWAY pitch 7: DIAZ and HARRIS: Why are they PLATOONING, bobby? 8: Thor can hit…sometimes. 9: Salty and Escobar: Trade bait? Hope not, but we need pitching. 10: In SMOLZT we trust 11: HUDSON sinks opponent hopes 12: Davies: A A A (and AA for me) 13: Chuck: why can’t this woodchuck chuck like it chucked last year? 14: Soriano: sorry no, you’re out 15: Light it up, wickman 16: Orr or woodward: neither or

Love you braves, but don’t want to have to break out the “rally chop” EVERY SINGLE GAME. GOOO BRAVES!

By Fastfoodfreak

June 21, 2007 10:46 PM | Link to this

John C, you really need to grow up. The war ended over 140 years ago! Even the Hatfields and McCoys are done!!!

By John C

June 21, 2007 10:48 PM | Link to this

not women, just traitorous sluts.

By Eric

June 21, 2007 10:52 PM | Link to this

so you know rose? I mean you must to talk like this is she the chick who laughed at your one tooth in the bar last night?

By Dino

June 21, 2007 11:00 PM | Link to this

That was totally embarrassing. I was with 2 red sox fans and they’ve been harrassing me all day after that debacle. Another bad year for the braves and they will not make the playoffs again. A bunch of overpaid losers.

By Fastfoodfreak

June 21, 2007 11:03 PM | Link to this

Mark, refresh my memory, how many WS have the Cubs won? Neither you nor I were alive the last time they won a WS.

There are plenty of sports towns worse off than the Braves.

Padres Brewers Giants (haven’t won a WS in I don’t know how long) Orioles (1 WS in last 23 + years & no string of 14 consecutive division titles) Phillies- 1 WS win (1980), no string of 14 consecutive division titles Pirates - 1 WS win (1979)in last 25+ years, no string of 14 consecutive division titles. Red Sox - 1 WS win in last 90 years, no string of 14 consecutive division titles. Expos/Nats Rangers Angels-1 WS win, no string of 14 consecutive division titles. Astros - over 40 years, no WS wins

I could go on, but needless to say, after looking at all these teams, Braves don’t seem so bad do they?

By utah braves fan

June 21, 2007 11:04 PM | Link to this

this is the first year (even as bad as they were last year) that they dont do the small things sac bunts defense base running ect. they cant even get the fundamentals right (by the way andruw will come around)

By Tasha

June 21, 2007 11:08 PM | Link to this

Oh suuure fast food you had to remind me….chuckle. I think if the Cubbies ever DO win a WS, us fans won’t even know what to do. Heck they might not be as fun to Root for! LOL

By Fastfoodfreak

June 21, 2007 11:08 PM | Link to this

Wore my Braves shirt the day after 11-0 loass. Best I can do, since I live too far from ATL & support 3 kids (oldest son now a Bravs fan).

By Ron Burns

June 21, 2007 11:10 PM | Link to this

OPEN LETTER TO TED TURNER: Dear Ted, I saw you about three weeks ago on the corner at your downtown TED’S MONTANA GRILL. You were walking your dog, I was holding my infant grandson; we were waiting on a table. I said, “Hi, Ted,” and you said, “Hi.’ I have a favor to ask you. PLEASE BUY BACK THE BRAVES. They haven’t been the same since you sold them out to Time Warner. They played with confidence when you were at the helm. Save us, please. Anyhoo, love the bison burgers (I eat at your grill once a week). Delicious! Love, a Braves Fan.

By Fastfoodfreak

June 21, 2007 11:11 PM | Link to this

Utah:

I agree. Can’t believe that Andruw will continue this forever. Painful to watch, though.

By Jerry L

June 21, 2007 11:14 PM | Link to this

Too many years of Time Warner and the realization that Andruw is never going to be a consistance hitter has caught up with Atlanta. Maybe the new owners and Andruw gone will mark a turning point for the braves. I hope so!

By Fastfoodfreak

June 21, 2007 11:15 PM | Link to this

Sorry, Tasha,

Wish I could have gone to a Cubs game when I was at Navy Boot Camp in IL. However, got to enjoy the city. Love it!

By Fastfoodfreak

June 21, 2007 11:19 PM | Link to this

What I don’t get is that they seemed to hit the superstar starters well (should’ve beat Santana, beat Sabathia, beat Schilling). It’s everyone else they can’t hit!

By mark

June 21, 2007 11:20 PM | Link to this

Fastfoodfreak, I hear what you are saying but looking at all those opportunities that we missed out on in 14 years of so called success, I would have to say that I would prefer to have just one lucky year instead of a decade plus full of choking wouldn’t you?

By Dave

June 21, 2007 11:26 PM | Link to this

JS, make a call to Tampa Bay and offer Salty and another A prospect and get Scott Kazmir in here. Bobby stop coddling the players be more demanding of them. Chipper and Smoltzy step up and be the leaders you’re supposed to be. Andruw, spend every spare moment in the batting cage until you get your stroke back. Willie Harris,you’re my leadoff guy and everyday left fielder.

By The Riddler

June 21, 2007 11:49 PM | Link to this

R: How is Mike Vick like a box of raisins left in an aisle overnight after a game at TURNER FIELD ???

By The PRIDE of the Yankees

June 21, 2007 11:54 PM | Link to this

Did you folks hear that the New York Yankee fans are having a “PRIDE of the Yankees” festival this weekend at Piedmont Park?

Who wants to go with me and celebrate our favorite pin-striped ballplayers?

By Jeff B.

June 21, 2007 11:54 PM | Link to this

Andruw has become a cancer worse than Rocker ever thought about being!

By Bob the BoSox Fan

June 22, 2007 12:03 AM | Link to this

I was fortunate enough to attend the Red Sox - Braves series and I want to thank all the wonderful people I met in Atlanta who added to my enjoyment. My two sons and I love both the Sox and the Braves so seeing them play each other was a dream come true. We loved the city of Atlanta and had a great time. The Braves are going through a rough spell but based on John Schueholz’s history, I’m sure he’ll get the Braves some frontline pitching and maybe another bat. Again, we had a great time in your city and best of luck to the Braves. You see, not ALL Sox fans are “bandwagon” fans -I’ve been a Sox fan since 1961, when I was four!

By Jeff B.

June 22, 2007 12:05 AM | Link to this

Fundamentals and manufacturing runs wins more games in the long haul. Take note of the the Tigers’ and Braves’ style of game this weekend and check back on where they are in October. Just in case you can’t see the writing on the wall!

By Ripme

June 22, 2007 12:08 AM | Link to this

Del you are right someone needs to stand up and get mad! Cox is a Pus#* and want stand up to players like AJ.AJ needs to stay on the bench till he agrees to a trade…and please don’t try to sign AJ and that idiot smile! JS please get some starting pitchers or hang it up. Liberty when are you going to open your check book? Fans will show up when you put a good team on the field….My wife two kids attended two games against Red Sox and it cost me over $450 and the Braves never got a run. What a Joke! You want me to pay to watch AJ and AA starting pitchers. Get a Life Mark,DOB, Cox, JS, and Liberty.

By edward

June 22, 2007 12:24 AM | Link to this

Trade Andruw and Thorman for some pitching!!! Salty can take over first and Harris can take center. Smoltz cant carry this team forever. I am sure with those two we can pick up somebody. JS must really be kicking himself for letting Glavine get away again. Even in a slump he’s better than Carlyle. 5-0 after the first??? Thank GAWD the Mets stink just as badly. And after you trade away Thorman and Andruw, get rid of Orr and Carlyle for more pitching.

By fix it

June 22, 2007 1:05 AM | Link to this

* Cox gives Andrew a break. Hell! he’s been on break all year. When is he going to work? Someone wake Cox up.*

By Rick

June 22, 2007 1:23 AM | Link to this

First of all, the lineups the Braves put on the field each night shouldn’t give ANY pitcher a reason to worry. Top to bottom, its VERY WEAK! Kelly is young and still promising, Edgar has been our ONE LONE BRIGHT STAR THIS YEAR, Chipper can’t be depended on anymore because he is a p***, Andruw “Mr. OVERATED”/”Mr. Strikeout King” has been needed to be traded a long time ago. He is KILLING THIS TEAM. GET RID OF HIS SORRY A*—-NOW! Jeff will still hopefully grow as a hitter learning not to swing at the first pitch, and be more disciplined, Brian is a great hitter and the people who were on his case a few weeks ago need to just shut the hell up! Diaz and Thornton need to go, Paronto, Moylan, and everyone else in the bullpen except Soriano and Wickman need to get the hell out. This team needs to make some major moves, or you can watch this season go up in flames.

By Red Sox Fans are DISGUSTING!

June 22, 2007 2:51 AM | Link to this

I drove to Atlanta from Augusta, GA to watch the first two games of the series…I must say that of all the fans I have encountered the RED SOX fans are by far the rudest and most arrogant. Not because they cheered for their team but rather their manners and total disrespect. I had to shush several of them by saying “respect, respect” during the national anthem. But then again, they are from Mass. which is more closely aligned with the French. Thanks GOD for Delta - Get the hell out of here and take the transplants with you! BRAVES FAN FOREVER!!!

By Plate Appearance

June 22, 2007 5:10 AM | Link to this

AN APOLOGY: I simply wanted to take a moment this morning, based on this “say anything” format, and apologize to John Schuerholz.

After the Adam LaRoche trade last year, I made some blog comments about this trade — comments that were directed toward JS — that I believe now, in looking back, were unduly harsh and unfair.

Schuerholz is unquestionably the best GM in the business, hands down.

What other GM has produced a string of 14 consecutive division titles — with the oft limited buget he’s had to work with?

So while I may not always like or even necessarily agree with some of the trades or roster moves John makes, we Monday morning quarterbacks must certainly defer to his wisdom and overall expertise.

Thanks for having the courage to make some of the moves you’ve made, irrespective of public opinion.

We know you’re working hard not only on behalf of the Braves, but also we fans.

Thanks John for the good work! Thanks too, for being willing to take the “heat” in making what you believe to be the right decisions!

We fans do appreciate it!

By tim

June 22, 2007 5:48 AM | Link to this

this team is not going to be any better than average. we don’t need pitching we need a pitching COACH. Mcdowell is a joke at least Leo we would get their face and light them up. TP has not done a good job with any of these guys Frenchy waits through a 48 minute rain delay and swings at the first pitch. AJ big money Jones has got to be the most over hyped hitter i have ever seen can you say trade bait. the guy can go 0-5 with 4 K’s and is still grinning like he could care less. Dump his fat #%& now.

By jerry

June 22, 2007 7:17 AM | Link to this

Terry Pendleton, while a Braves player, once told a reporter that he did not watch the games when he was on the bench because the games were “boring”. Now why would they hire someone with that attitude? Was it because someone liked him? Have the Braves hit any better since he became the batting coach? Does it matter who the batting coach is?

By Jeff321

June 22, 2007 7:47 AM | Link to this

The Braves need to learn plate discipline. Its amazing watching other teams players get up there and have a 3 minute at bat…. (resulting in a HIT or WALK..imagine that!) Most Braves are lucky to get a 15 second appearance at the plate… which usually results in a weak grounder to second or a strike out. Also, most of these losers can’t or won’t bunt the runner over. This has got to change… But, I’m not very optimistic at this time. I enjoy watching the team play, but a contender (at least in the post season) they are not!

By metsfanforlife

June 22, 2007 7:48 AM | Link to this

All i have to say is that despite the Mets lousy play, we are still in 1st place! :)

By scott

June 22, 2007 7:51 AM | Link to this

There is nothing that can be done if a player in injured. With that said I do think that the offensive woes need to be addressed. If you go back a few years when Don Baylor was the hiting coach Chipper had an MVP year and Andruw did not do to bad either. I think a Baylor like instructor would be just what CJ and AJ need. Jeff, Scott and even Brian could use that type of influence too. Pitching and defense wins games. Get another starter and go from there. Good Luck boys!!!

By Frosty

June 22, 2007 8:13 AM | Link to this

Reportedly, the players are crazy about Bobby Cox. But is that a good thing? Maybe Andruw should watch tapes of his earlier (successful) years, and copy himself. He has thought himself into some really bad habits. Maybe a few months in Richmond might help.

Position by position, the Braves have a solid club, but I’d like to see more fire in their furnace. Watch the Yankees, or the Red Sox (oops, we just did that). Those guys have that ‘thing’ about winning.

By Frosty

June 22, 2007 8:41 AM | Link to this

your blogs are mor intresting if you cud jus spell goodly an puntuate dont you know that sentencs start with capitels and end with a period and theris a space between it what did you do in school jus sleep and chase grils???

By Frosty

June 22, 2007 8:48 AM | Link to this

I didn’t realize that there are so many bloggers that appear to be functionally illiterate. They can’t spell, punctuate, form a complete sentence or organize a thought in writing. I wonder if this is endemic to the general population, or just sports minded bloggers.

By marta

June 22, 2007 9:06 AM | Link to this

Frosty,

The English writing blog is down the hall. DO you have anything to add to a SPORTS blog or do you just need us to tell you how effing smart you are so you can start your day feeling superior?

By TheCutMan

June 22, 2007 9:13 AM | Link to this

So, as much as we THINK we know what’s going on with the Braves, do we really? I don’t think so.

Certainly the need to improve the starting pitching needs no expert commentary to confirm what everyone, including the manager and GM already know. So, what’s the inner workings of the Brave’s braintrust doing about it?

I suspect we’ll start seeing some answers within the next 30 days or so. Will the Braves go for it for a 2007 finishing kick, or start re-building for a 2008 run?

Stay tuned.

By Bill Trout

June 22, 2007 9:17 AM | Link to this

Leave Andruw Jones on the bench, start Willie Harris in center, take the bat out of Jeff F’s hands on the first pitch when the team is behind, and go to a four man rotation, with the bull pen being the fifth starter. Oscar can start, go three innings then build a bridge to Soriano and Wickman with the rest of the bull pen staff.

By Psycho

June 22, 2007 9:27 AM | Link to this

The head shed will attempt to right the Braves. Gone will be Andruw, Gorman and one reliever. McCann will be traded. What we get in return will say whether we are building for the future or trying to hang on this season. Zambrano may be in the mix because of the situation in Chicago. We need pitching, proven pitching, to make a run this year. McCann will be the bait.

By Tasha

June 22, 2007 9:33 AM | Link to this

psycho Zambrano is not who I would want to see on my team. He is already on my team and seeing him gone wouldn’t be a bad thing in my opinion, so if you want him in all his glory…HAVE at it..lol

By John

June 22, 2007 9:33 AM | Link to this

Get rid of Hudson, get rid of Hampton, and get rid of Andru!! The poor performances or non performances of these players drag the team down. If possible get some starting pitching in return. If not, get rid of them anyway.

By SRF

June 22, 2007 9:44 AM | Link to this

I have a great plan - lets put the Braves players on commission. Pay for performance.

Start with a base salary of $1M dollars.

Then hitters get $10M x batting average, so if you hit .500 then you get $5M but if you are sub .200 like Andruw, you only get about $2M

Pitchers - get $10M divided by ERA so if you are about 1.0 you get the cool $10M but like the Braves crew - if your ERA is about 10.0 then you get only another $1M.

I think it could work !

By 1957 Braves Fan

June 22, 2007 9:51 AM | Link to this

The Braves will make a stupid move like trading Salty for Mark Buehrle.

By JR

June 22, 2007 10:02 AM | Link to this

JS has waited too long to move Andruw and Chipper for anything but prospects. Too bad that he couldn’t have moved them sooner and kept Glavine and Maddox a couple of years longer. Chipper is mostly a part time player now and Andruw has never been able to adjust and improve so he’s in decline (why else would he look so bad in a contract year?). We just don’t look very strong now other than McCann, Francoeur, Johnson, and Salty. Renteria looks good, but he is not young. We have AAA players at first and in left, seemingly nice guys but not star quality players. Starting pitching is spotty at best. Relievers, a bright spot, can’t score runs. We unfortunately look right in place in the weak NL East.

By JR

June 22, 2007 10:02 AM | Link to this

JS has waited too long to move Andruw and Chipper for anything but prospects. Too bad that he couldn’t have moved them sooner and kept Glavine and Maddox a couple of years longer. Chipper is mostly a part time player now and Andruw has never been able to adjust and improve so he’s in decline (why else would he look so bad in a contract year?). We just don’t look very strong now other than McCann, Francoeur, Johnson, and Salty. Renteria looks good, but he is not young. We have AAA players at first and in left, seemingly nice guys but not star quality players. Starting pitching is spotty at best. Relievers, a bright spot, can’t score runs. We unfortunately look right in place in the weak NL East.

By jbutler

June 22, 2007 10:07 AM | Link to this

You guys making comments about fans not coming to the field…give me a break!! Put a decent product on the field - then we’ll be back. Problem is…the bar was set so high - and the logistics of getting to the park make it truly not really worth it. But..being a parent with 4 kids - I’m mortified to think they are charging enough that they are offering to let people FINANCE their tickets. Think they’re OVERCHARGING??????

By Sneakin' In

June 22, 2007 10:10 AM | Link to this

What this team needs is some leadership. We need one of the players, say for instance Smoltz or Chipper, to get absolutely fed up with the way the guys have been playing and say so. It doesn’t have to be done publicly, but it needs to be done. Somebody step up and take a stand. I would, but they won’t let me in the clubhouse.

By Donovan Coley

June 22, 2007 10:13 AM | Link to this

Call me a pessimist or call me a realist, but don’t call me dumb. Bobby Cox is so likeable he is killing the team with unconditional loyalty. How many times has he kept pitchers in a game to lose so as they won’t get their feelings hurt? Chipper is a bonefide hitter, but he’s too old to field his position. We have seen enough of Scott Thorman to know that 1st base is occupied by an empty uniform. AJ has no professional focus. At the plate he thinks more about strip clubs and automobiles than what he is being paid to represent. The entire starting rotation is bush league and incapable of achieving post season success. Smoltz is a candle rapidly burning out and Hudson has been figured out by opponents. Our batting coach offers nothing but a fat salary and little else. If our hitters can’t get it done against all of the rookie pitchers they face, how can they succeed against veterans? Lastly, don’t get upset about Boston fans. They follow a winner. When the Braves become winners they will have the Ted packed with home fans.

By Rhett B

June 22, 2007 10:21 AM | Link to this

If Boston is SO great, why do you live in Atlanta?

By jbutler

June 22, 2007 10:25 AM | Link to this

Hey Sneakin In….I heard snippets of an interview w/Smoltz the other day..and I guess he did kind of let it rip last year w/his frustration. Maybe he doesn’t have their respect/ears to get through to them. CJ isn’t a leader- he’s a whiner. I’m not sure who else could run w/it. I’m just waiting for Cox to break the ejection record. That’s about the only reason to watch!!

By Tasha

June 22, 2007 10:30 AM | Link to this

rhett what does supporting your team have to with that question? You live where you live for many different reasons. If you were to have to move for family or financial reasons would that make Atlanta or the braves any less “great” to you?

By Jimbo

June 22, 2007 10:31 AM | Link to this

I’ve had enough of Fat Head Jones and I’m counting the days until he is an ex-Brave. And Frenchy the Clown better shape up too. He’s been here to long to be such a moron at the plate. Bobby should sit them both down for a week or so.

By Chris

June 22, 2007 10:38 AM | Link to this

By Will

June 22, 2007 10:38 AM | Link to this

I woke up this morning with a smile on my face just knowing that A) The braves did not lose yesterday and B) Andruw did not go 0-4 with 3 K. Too bad that cant happen when they actually play a game!!

By Tasha

June 22, 2007 10:39 AM | Link to this

Jimbo…when I went to a Cubs/Braves game last year I heard a Braves fan make the comment that Andruw Jone’s belt size had finally made it above his batting average. Ok well it made me Chuckle

By Colin Christopher

June 22, 2007 10:49 AM | Link to this

Andruw looks so ugly at the plate right now that a kindergartener could spot the flaws in his swing. “Daddy, he fall down go boom!” Cripes. Send him to Richmond while he figures this out.

By Dave

June 22, 2007 10:53 AM | Link to this

AHHHHHHHHHHHHH

There, I feel better

By Ralph

June 22, 2007 10:54 AM | Link to this

Andruw is human, and so is old Chipper (setting the recorder for being on the disable list) Jones. Their playing days are number. Andruw needs to rest more, maybe two days a week, Chipper does a good job resting, so we don’t have to worry about him. The Braves will manage to blow the game, so don’t worry who’s in center, and third is taken care of. Pendleton can do better as a hitting coach, but most of all keep he should keep his negative comments to himself, he’s getting payed good money to put up with all the Braves crap. Maybe one of the main reason for Pendleton frustration is that most of the Braves hitters are a bunch of spoil brat and think they know it all, and consider him as an old timer who doesn’t know what he is talking about, little do they know. If I was Pendleton I wouldn’t watch the knuckle headed Babies swing like a third rate minor leaguers. Bobby has no control over these babies so they do what they want, which to strike out with man on bases and blow a scoring opportunity. Most of the Braves don’t know what ABC Baseball is, they thing it’s you local nursery school. The General manager has got to take control of the team or it will be another losing season. The Braves should make every player clean shave their faces, because they don’t scare anyone, they look more like “Captain Jack” Than “Red The Destroyer”. Just about all teams love to play the Braves, because they know it doesn’t take much for the Braves to self destructed. The main reason the fans get so frustrated with the Brave is that in general they have a very good team and a player or two and a manager away and a lot of disciplined from taking over as the leader of the Eastern Division away from the Mets. The plain fact is that the way a team performs is on the Managers shoulders its not a popularly contest in that he’s a likeable manager, it’s who’s going to win games and than the World Series. If the Brave want more fans to support them, have Bobby leave the players in the line-up for more than one game when they get hits because of a lefty or a right handed pitcher. For the team to STOP playing like a bunch of losers and to WIN, IT’S JUST THAT SIMPLE, WIN, WIN, WIN, THAT’S THE NAME OF THE GAME…. (period).

By Bethany

June 22, 2007 10:54 AM | Link to this

There is no good excuse for the way the Braves have been playing lately. If they can’t handle the interleague play there is no way they could handle the playoffs. Braves fans need to visit Boston and take a “How to be a Baseball Fan 101”. How bad is it when they come that far from home to watch their team play when Atlanta doesn’t even sell out for a playoff game?

By phil

June 22, 2007 10:56 AM | Link to this

Where are the Fans. The time is now for JS to shake the baseball world. Trade AJ and try to get Ichiro at least we will have a hitter in the lineup. Then go get some pitching. Management needs to show now that they are going to be better than AOL was.

By jay

June 22, 2007 10:58 AM | Link to this

please please please get mark buerhle already. salty is a great prospect but we need a starter now. for once can we just make the big deal to put ourselves over the hump?

By WILLSINY

June 22, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

First off we need a pitcher. Dont trade salty, but escobar is expandable package him, possibly another prospect and get a solid starter. Also the red sox fans! I mean cmon I dont want to hear it tehy come because others dont. I live in NY and I go to braves games at shea and in teh brionx and ya theres usually a high amount of fans but not to the point taht they drown out teh crowd. Hey im coming down in July and bought tickets for two games. But Im a BRAVES fan. thats who shoudl be traveling down. Anyway im off topic. We need a top line starter NOW!

By Erin

June 22, 2007 11:23 AM | Link to this

I wonder how many of the people that are on here complaining about how the Red Sox fans were loud and how the Braves fans weren’t, were watching the game on their television sets in their home?

By will

June 22, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this

Do transplants from Detroit, Michigan also count as “blue bellied” Yankees? Or do we get a pass on that?

Go Tigers!

By Johnny Evans

June 22, 2007 11:30 AM | Link to this

Why is everyone so high on Salty==At this point he has proved nothing over a period of time= Seems like everyone is putting the blame on Andruw=It takes more than one player==All I hear about Davies=is he has great stuff=yet the other teams uses him to increase there stats= I do not think Mccann is good as he was projected to be= Looks like to me=news print has made some great on paper=but as of this minute=not on the field==It is way to early say say Salty is=and Salty is that=well I hope he does turn out good=Couple of years everyone was beating the drums for Prado=betemit and others=How is up and coming players going to displace multi million dollars contracts=we know who will play=Look at other teams in the League They are having the same issue= Give Salty a true chance before building him up so high,, he will read your comments=and there goes his work ethic= I agree with the lack of pitching==Davies=maybe good for another eam=but not the Braves==well the Rome Braves==maybe== Everyone tooted Thorman’s horn=so what he has a few home runs=But he has not had time neither to prove his media-on paper=not on the field=he is a rookie=how did his name get on the All STar list HAVING SAID ALL OF THE ABOVE==THE BRAVES NEEDS TO PLAY AS A TEAM= JOHNNY

By Jack Haris

June 22, 2007 11:31 AM | Link to this

I realize the Braves are having a tough time but I believe we’re still in a transitiono period and things are “fixable.” We need to look at using Oscar as a starter again (I can’t figure out why we hadn’t already done that). I think Pendelton is “helping” too much with people like Francuer and Andrew (changing their batting stance, etc). Perhaps another starter could come out of the bullpen … Moylan, Yates i.e. Thanks for allowing me to have a word.

By Loren

June 22, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this

First, the Braves need to be more selective at the plate. Someone, please tell Francoeur to take a pitch occasionally. If you are down by 11, you cannot tie the game with one swing. At the same time, there is a lot to like about this year’s team, especially Kelly Johnson, Willie Harris, Peter Moylan, and Brian McCann. However, the Braves need pitching. How about trading Davies and Cormier while they still have SOME value. I’m sure the Braves could get at least a dozen balls and a case of beer for these guys. Don’t get me wrong. I have been a Braves fan for 30 years, and will continue to cheer for them (win or lose), as a TRUE fan should, unlike the fair-weather Indians fans that I live near and sat next to during all three of Atlanta’s recent games that I attended in Cleveland.

By Chris

June 22, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this

We don’t need pitching right now. We need it yesterday. The only way it seems that we’re going to get it is through a trade. To get someone good in a trade, we have to have someone desirable and be willing to give them up. This may mean letting either Escobar or Salty go, but we’ve already got solid players at their positions, so they are essentially trade bait at this point.

Also, the Braves have said that they won’t be interested in anyone that we’d have to pay big money for this year or next year.

We should be shopping non-contenders for some decent pitching talent, as they’ll be more receptive to letting a proven player go for a couple of good prospects. Perhaps if we dangle enough out there, we can lure Dontrelle Willis out of Florida or Mark Buehrle out of Chicago.

We could also go after guys whose W-L isn’t great, but only because of a lack of run support. Guys like Matt Cain from the Giants or Gil Meche from the Royals. We might be able to pick those guys up for a song.

The thing is, we’re gonna have to give up someone good to get someone good. Fortunately, we have lots of talent that we just can’t get on the field.

One thing is sure: Andruw won’t get traded. 1) he’s having a terrible year statistically, 2) he’s a 10-5 player (10 years in the majors, 5 with the same team) and can veto any trade, and 3) Scott Boras. ‘nuff said.

Instead of a trade, we’ll probably just offer him some crappy contract so he’ll look elsewhere.

By randyh

June 22, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this

maybe someone already mentioned this: with mac’s recent throwing problems, move HIM to first base and put salty behind the plate…get both bats in there.

By Turnin2

June 22, 2007 1:05 PM | Link to this

Good Luck tonight Braves —

Hopefully a good day off resting or playing golf yesterday should’a been good for what ails ya!

Can’t wait to get to the park for this awesome pitching match-up…

Come boys - Hit’em where they ain’t!!

By mark

June 22, 2007 1:10 PM | Link to this

The braves will continue to suck because they can’t hit or pitch. They have streaky hitters because of a manager that sits and wait on the long ball. The braves should be playing more small ball. There is no reason that this team is close to the top in team average, yet leave so many runners on base. Everybody on that team should be required to bunt. (Yes even Chipper and Andruw). Maybe if Andruw bunted a little more, he would learn to look the ball all the way into the strike zone and have some clue as to where it is. Plus our rotation is pathetic. Hudson should have more wins, but they managed to screw that up. The lower part of the rotation is very shaky. James is mediocre, Davies suck, and Buddy is just a there. He was doing ok up until last night when he go knocked around. We as fans should just hope they stay above 500. They have no business being in the playoffs, because they would just embarass themselves. Braves Suck!

By mark

June 22, 2007 1:11 PM | Link to this

The season’s over! Fan should pray that this team don’t make the playoffs. I don’t blame the fans for not coming, heck I am getting sick of these Atlanta teams stinking up the joint!

Fans in Atlanta should be fair weather/bandwagon fans because the teams haven’t given us nothing to be proud of. The Hawks are terrible and when they used to make the playoffs way back when, they couldn’ make it out of the second round. Plus they have Billy Knight as a GM! Our only hope with this team is that they don’t screw up the draft!

The Falcons can’t even have back to back winning seasons. They may not even have a quarterback this season. They have more bad seasons than good seasons.

The Braves could have given us some hope if they had just won more than one WS. They teased us with division titles and NL pennants, but when it came time for the Big Dance they just sat down. Don’t give me this crap about the team of the 90’s. The Yankees and Blue Jays have had more success than the Braves. I hate to say this but so have the Marlins. They won in 97, broke up the team, rebuilt it, and won again in 03. So the Braves never gave us any hope accept to lose when it counts.

Last but not least, you have the Thrashers (for those who are hockey fans and actually care)who pulled an Atlanta Braves by winning the division and then getting swept! I tried to root for them but they looked as if they had never played hockey!

So all you people that criticize Atlanta fans really don’t know what you are talking about. I hear people saying things like Cubs fans and Red Sox fans never turn their backs on their teams. You can’t compare those cities to Atlanta because they had some form of hope in their city. The Chicago fans had other teams that gave them a sense of hope not to turn their back on the Cubs. They have the Blackhawks, Bears, and oh by the way the Bulls who won 6 championships in 8 years. The Boston had other teams that gave them a sense of hope. They had Celtics that have had dynasties, and oh yeah the Patriots.

What kind of hope has Atlanta had. I know, the 95 Braves (our only championship in 40 years of professional sports). May be Georgia Tech in 1990 or possibly Evander Holyfield. That’s it! Atlanta fans have the right to feel the way they do. Until one of these teams establish some type of tradition, opposing team’s fans will continue to fill up our stadiums.

I am getting sick of the fans being criticized because they rather spend their money on something meaningful than these pathetic teams like the Braves! Go Fans!

By Dan

June 22, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this

They need to stop messing around and get some starting pitching. Trade “Salty” and lets get the starting pitching before its too late!

By Jimbo

June 22, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this

Wny not bring up Pena to be the backup catcher to free up Salty to play more at first? Pena would also certainly contribute more at the plate then Woodward and Orr combined.

By Jimbo

June 22, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this

Tasha I used to call Andruw Fatso, but he actually slimmed down for his contract walk year. Now I call him Fat Head based on his moronic approach to hitting.

By Jimbo

June 22, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

randyh I’ve been thinking the same thing about moving McCann to first. Salty looks like a superior catcher. He’s better defensively and he has a better arm. McCann may call a better game but right now its hard to tell with this bunch of crappy pitchers.

By gotigers72

June 22, 2007 1:55 PM | Link to this

bravesfan - I saw the ESPN article that you posted about, regarding the Braves looking at Buerhle. I was wondering what the Braves would have to give up to get him. Got a feeling I wouldn’t be crazy about the names that would be mentioned. I personally think that Escobar and Saltalamacchia [either one, not both] would be too much to give up. With the way Chipper gets injured so often, they could not afford to give up Escobar because anybody else they would have to play there would not hit enough.

I know they would have to give up somebody good to get Buerhle, be it a ML player, or some highly regarded prospects. I don’t think it’s worth it because outside of the one great year Buerhle had, he has been inconsistent. Great game, bad game, great game, bad game. I know the Braves desperately need a starting pitcher, but please don’t give away too much for a guy who is in his walk year. Rent him for 3-4 months and then he walks and you’re out whoever you sent to the White Sox. Kind of like the JD Drew deal. Wouldn’t Adam Wainwright fit nicely into the Braves starting rotation right now? IMO, that’s the worst deal JS has ever made. Would have been fine if JS would have KNOWN he could have reupped Drew, but he didn’t and that made it a bad trade.

By Bunster

June 22, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this

So we’ve let it all out and we now feel better. But are the Braves better for it…..NO!!!!

By not Juan

June 22, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

“I can’t see the plus side of trading McBride for Ledezma. McBride has an ERA a run lower than Ledezma, and Ledezma’s CAREER ERA is 5.15! Yikes. I could kind of see this coming after Monday night though. McBride was in for a mop up role, and absolutely could not get any righthand hitters out. So Bobby had to warm up Soriano and Wickman and had to bring Wickman in. He shouldn’t have had to do that in a 9-4 game, but he had no choice. I noticed when Bobby came out to take McBride out, he didn’t even give him the usual “Bobby pat on the back”. He always does that, no matter how bad the pitcher he is taking out has pitched. But he didn’t in this case. That told me that he was POed, having to warm up his 2 bullpen aces in a blowout game.” I agree with this comment, and…. If you will think back Bobby never has given McBride much of a chance. He has his favorites, no matter how much Davis, James, Carlyle suck he just lets them go on and on. What’s up with that? He always put McBride in a killer situations - and 95% of the time he gets out of it. Check his numbers how many loses are on his back? It was clear that Cox just didn’t want to play him except in situations that were pressure cookers. Look at last year - McBride came through - this year Cox has not given him a fair shake. One pitch here - one pitch there - what’s that? Micro-managing the pitchers? I know a little about pitching and that’s not what you usually see from other teams. May be our coaches could learn from sitting the bench and watching how easily other teams do the winning thing. Congratualtions to McBride - Guess that’s why Detroit is a real contender.

By Tasha

June 22, 2007 2:10 PM | Link to this

Bunster, you mean to say you dont think Bobby Cox is gonna read this? LOL

By Marc

June 22, 2007 2:11 PM | Link to this

Moving McCann to first would be a horrible idea. I realize Salty has shown signs of a stronger arm, but he’s also made some pretty bad throws as well. I think McCann calls a better game, and that’s all anyone should care about in their catcher.

By J

June 22, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this

Scott, is that you???

GSU, GSU, GSU!

By Coleman ( formerly RET )

June 22, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

Hawks—- Draft both Conley and Crittendon. The Atlanta version of the Phoenix Suns. Dog’s Recruiting—- The greatest. Falcons—-I would be happy with 9-7. Anything else would be gravy. Now my beloved Bravos—-I like Escobar at third—-Chipper in left—-Willie Harris in center—-Matt Diaz pinch-hitting—- Andrew traded for left-handed pitching

By JawjaHillbilly

June 22, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

As long as the Braves are a corporate holding we’ll languish in baseball Purgatory. A private owner,(preferably a humble multi-billionaire), who loves baseball and enjoys spending money on what he loves; THAT’S what we need! Baseball “ownership by conglomerate” should be banned. Why will that never happen?? Because MLB itself is now a conglomerate, the bottom line its only concern; same as the Braves’ present ownership…

By In South GA

June 22, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

Hello JS,

The A’s just released Milton Bradley and he was hitting .292. Do you have his number?

By gotigers72

June 22, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this

Just looked up Buerhle’s numbers, and they ain’t so hot. 3.45 ERA this year, which is decent, especially in the AL. But his career ERA is 3.80. Not very good, even in the league with a DH. That’s almost 4.00 for his career. Not worth giving up a highly rated prospect, or more likely prospects. Or even a productive ML player, positon player or pitcher. If they want Woodward and Orr, it’s a done deal. But I wouldn’t want him otherwise. Not with an almost 4.00 ERA AND in his walk year. Just doesn’t make sense. The Braves aren’t that desperate. If you’re gonna give up something good, then get something outstanding in return.

By Larry

June 22, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this

For all the whiners… I was at the 11-0 shelacking Thursday night with my entire family of Braves’ fans ready to shout down the interlopers from Boston. However, the Braves did absolutely nothing to warrent a cheer especially after the five-run first.

I applaud and envey the Red Sox for they are at a place where we were in the mid-90’s. They have great starting pitching, play great defense and can score in bunches. After their World Series win, they think they should dominate. Don’t we all remember those times. I think the Braves’ fans used to annoy the competition back then too.

We won’t be there again until we get two more quality starters and a more consistent offense. We fixed the bullpen hole very well, but the starting pitching has been extremely bad from the 3-4-5 guys. I just beg JS not to trade our best prospects for a rent-a-pitcher. Escobar and Salty will be good planyers. Perhaps we need to sell out to the youth movement and use any money earmarked for Andrew to improve our starting pitching.

By Headlines

June 22, 2007 5:20 PM | Link to this

And the Losers Are ….. The Atlanta Sports Fans. This city could not field a winner if their lives depended on it. From top to bottom, the Atlanta sports teams ranks some of the lowest in history. Just send the whole lot of them packing and pick another pasttime.

By LivininAL

June 22, 2007 5:38 PM | Link to this

Make Villerreal a starter.. use 2 of those toss up starters for long relief.. And by the way I’m tired of hearing about the past string of division titles.. So we were better than 4 other teams for years.. big deal..

By SAR

June 22, 2007 7:25 PM | Link to this

Hey Rich, If you’re down here, please go back to your far better city. Nobody wants your smug a* around.

By Ben A. Bused

June 22, 2007 10:58 PM | Link to this

This team is human junk.

Shuerholz is once again asleep at the wheel, much like last year.

This much we do know:

1) we can’t count on Chipper, the human potato chip who breaks too easy

2) we can’t count on Andruw, who is so deep in a funk that a submarine couldn’t find him

3) Davies belongs in 4 A ball somewhere

4) Thorman is not ready for anything but 4 A ball

5) this team is the only living heart donors assembled…..they have NO HEART whatsoever!

6) Hudson is lost at sea and comically over paid

7) they are either hurt, lost or incompetent. Well on their way to another losing season.

8) They need a deal NOW. A big hitter AND at least 1 more starter =

Matt orris, Kevin Millwood or Mark Buehrle. ALL ARE AVAILABLE.

By Ross

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

Is Bob Uecker available to hit for Andruw Jones? Heck, he couldn’t do any worse than 1 for 29. Every time I watch Andruw swing (or should I say overswing), I expect to see the ball in the catcher’s glove. Maybe he needs glasses? Hey Andruw! You can hit the ball to right field also!!

By Ralph

June 23, 2007 2:53 AM | Link to this

I just saw the Braves get shut-out for the third straight game and it was ugly. So all you fans that are at each other throat, save your hostility for sometime else worth while, if there is such a thing. The announcers make me laugh when they keep talking about Chipper has to come back, he was back for a brief moment and they still lost. A team that is built around one player, especially one that’s always disable will turn out to be just like the Atlanta Braves. So don’t blame the fan for not supporting a team that’s in disarray, and is on a course for a total melt down. A team that as predicable as the sun coming up tomorrow. A team that needs just to play baseball and stop the self-analyzing, and go back to nuts and bolts on how the game is play and stop looking and acting like a bunch of moronic losers, and using stupid excuses. What a bunch of pathetic looking quitters and self pitying looking players. Bobby Cox has got to start kicking some asses and get his team winning again. I just hope the Braves start wining games from now on or they will be referred to as the “Atlanta Braves Comedy Hour Team” or “Clowns on Parade Team”, “The Good, The Bad and The Ugly Team” or “Asta La Vista Baby Team”. Good luck Braves you need it.

By George

June 23, 2007 4:16 AM | Link to this

I guess the real Braves have just finally shown up. Now mind you injuries haven’t helped but some players got off to hot starts and have now cooled off. There still better though then those overrated bums from Boston who come August will start to choke.

By bronkelliott

June 23, 2007 9:56 AM | Link to this

This is pathetic and sad. No fire, no guts. the Bravs have reached thier lowest point. No recommendations for this team. Just want them to go out and have fun and do their best. There is no fixing this team. It is time for Bobby cox to call it quits and Andruw and chipper to move on. They have held this team back for the last 2 years and are not leaders on or off the field. Joe Giradi would be great with the young players. I am sure it will not happen but I think it’s best for this team to move on and rebuild instead of hoping for the playoffs.. Good luck the rest of the way and for the fans, don’t get frustrated.Better to show the team for what it is than pretend to be contenders.

By Boog

June 23, 2007 10:09 AM | Link to this

The Curse of the Tomahawk Chop is real

By Beach Dawg

June 23, 2007 12:25 PM | Link to this

A replay of June 06 is happening — as Yogi would say,it was over before it started.

By JDG123

June 23, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this

I am thoroughly disgusted and ashamed of this Braves team. This is the first time that I have sensed that we have some guys out here who do not care if they win or loose. Kudos to John Smoltz, Willie Harris, Yuniel Escobar. They put out 100% every game. A hardy boo to Chipper Jones who does not play and does not care. He has retreated into his own moody selfish little world. Boo to Andrew because he refuses to try to change his hitting as he has been advised. Boo to Francoeur for roughly the same reason. Boo to the young guys for letting these so-called leaders bring you all down. Time for Chipper, Andrew, and their bad attitudes to move on.

Let John Smoltz play for a team that wants to win (like the Tigers). He deserves better than to finish his career surrounded by a bunch of pathetic losers.

By Randall

June 23, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this

We can’t win without Chipper and we can’t win with Andruw. Trade A.J. for anything you can get and put Willie in center before it gets to late. That baby A.J. has been sucking at the financial teet of the Braves for to long. Eighteen million a year! HA! Sweet heart deal, hum do you think he can get double digit millions now?

By Stinky

June 23, 2007 5:35 PM | Link to this

you people are all a bunch of whiners.

By ricky

June 23, 2007 7:01 PM | Link to this

what is wrong with braves hitting? terry pendelton. needs to go now and take andrew with him.

By ricky

June 23, 2007 7:16 PM | Link to this

Fire pendelton, trade andrew for a starter if someone wants him and sit any player who swings at the first pitch

By Ralph

June 23, 2007 10:04 PM | Link to this

If there ever was a sorry team and now at each other throat, is the Braves. Chipper and Smoltz squabbling, ain’t that something, never thought you see that, but anyway good for Smoltz. Honestly Chipper can be the best baseball player in the last 15 years, but if he doesn’t play in games that are critical to the team because he claims to be a wreck and gets hurt and is put on the 15 day disable list for an ingrown nail, it’s just to much. While other players play hurt Chipper has become a laughing stock. In the real world this man would have been fired a long time ago for being out sick so much. He would be consider a non-productive high risk worker. The conflict between the two old timers, is an example on how Bobby has lost control of the team. Other players are getting sick and tired of the good old boy syndrome of Cox. The Braves players are getting frustrated with looking like a bunch idiots, they are looking like losers and play like it, from the first to the ninth inning. So who is to blame for their nose dive. Who really cares, the fans have a lot more to worry about, like pay their rent and clothes for their kids, etc. The Braves get big bucks to win. All we know is that you better win or find another line of work. We don’t want to hear what you didn’t do in the past. Tell us what you are going to do to fix the problems you have at present, and from my point of view it’s a big. Go ahead a fight with each other, kick some a* in the club house, because you’re not doing it in the field.

By Drew

June 23, 2007 11:20 PM | Link to this

I saw the Braves play the Kenny Rogers and the Tigers last night. I wish I hadn’t. I drove all the way from Birmingham, Alabama only to see the most feeble display of hitting I’ve seen in a while! What has happened to our lineup? :(

By Lehman

June 24, 2007 1:25 AM | Link to this

It,s time for Cox and Pendleton to go. Cox is a do nothing manager that has lost control of this team. Now players are feuding and on the verge of selfdestruction. Pendleton couldn’t teach a cowboy to hit a bull on the butt with a shovel. All that ambiguous BS about ruining a hitter’s aggresivness is just that…BULL $h!t!!

By Robert

June 24, 2007 2:24 AM | Link to this

It took getting him to feel backed into a corner to get Chumper to quit whining about the schedule and grudgingly accept that fact that it might be time for him to give 100% effort every day. That pretty much says it all about homeboy Larry

By the_bull

June 24, 2007 2:39 AM | Link to this

We need to get Salty in the game at 1st base more often. THORMAN HAS NO BUSINESS STARTING IN THE MAJORS! What a joke!

By Dave knockahomer

June 24, 2007 8:53 AM | Link to this

someone get me up to speed! In last nights game, KJ was trying to bunt, fouled out. I went to kitchen for a beer and heard something like….’an exchange between Cox and __.:

who was Cox jawing at? If it was KJ, he better jaw elsewhere….like he oughta jaw AJ to bits!

but does anyone remember any kind of sqawbling or ‘in your face’ thing between Cox and ____

thanks……

By Donovan Coley

June 24, 2007 9:49 AM | Link to this

Ok, call me a realist. This Braves team can wave bye-bye to post season and impersonating as a contender to the Mets. The Mets train has finally left the station and the Braves never got on the train. Do you really think that this pitching will win a World Series? Do you really think that this bunch of hitters will score enough runs to make it to post season? Do you think that this manager is capable of putting a team together for competitive play? Not until the organization spends some money for personnel can it hope to be a serious contender. The farm system well is dried up. Reliance on what we have isn’t going to get it done.

By Donovan Coley

June 24, 2007 9:58 AM | Link to this

Ok, call me a realist. Seen enough? This team is not going to be any kind of a contender for post season play nor a threat to the Mets. The Mets have already pulled away from the station and the Braves never got on the train. Do you really think that this pitching group is going to get to post season? Do you really think that this bunch of hitters are capable of winning enough games to get to post season? Do you really think that this manager is capable of putting together a competitive post season team? Until the organization spends enough money on personnel the results will always be the same. Don’t look to the farm system either. That well has dried up.

By JDG123

June 24, 2007 10:50 AM | Link to this

Dave Knockahommer,

Yes, Bobby was letting Kelly have it for trying to bunt with two strikes. They showed it on TV and Pete Van Wieren brought it to our attention on the radio. Not a long chewing out but one of the rare times I have seen Cox let one of our guys have it during a game.

By cursive

June 24, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

OK, I was born a Braves fan and I will die a Braves fan… BUT C’MON!!! You want fan support?!? Well, here’s an idea… FIELD A DECENT DAMN TEAM! The Braves consistently fail to go after any of the big boys that could take the Braves into som decent level of production. One stinking WS in 14 years of winning our division? Time to shake this team up a bit and give us something to cheer for!

By Dave knockahomer

June 24, 2007 12:52 PM | Link to this

JDG 123: hey, thanks man! I thought I heard the name ‘johnson’ but was mystified as why Cox would get in his face! yea, bunting with 2 strikes ain’t so good unless he was given the sign to do so and failed! BUT what the H is the matter with Cox? why get onto KJ who has done an unbelievable job? why not pick on the master of ‘doing nothing’….AJ! AJ should be warming a bench for about a week or so…let Harris do it! This team needs a new leader…and Joe Girardi would be great! —I answered you JDG123 earlier but I hit a wrong button, so if two answers came up…….well ;0

By BRJJ

June 24, 2007 1:05 PM | Link to this

It is quite obvious that this team is no better than last year. They try to make do with rookies, cast-offs, has-beens and anything they can cobble together to field a team and call it major league material. The fact is they don’t have the pitching or offense to get them out of the bottom portion of their divisiion. I fully expece them to finish barely above the Nationals and behind the Phillies, Mets and Marlins. It is plain to see the ownershhip cares nothing about the team, it’s just a tax write-off for them. Major League Baseball has morphed into a league of a few elites and all the rest also-rans. The Braves will not be a competing team again until there is ownership with the ability, and the willingness, to provide the funds necessary to secure players wth the talent to compete with the elites. When teams like the Red Sox, Yankees, etc. can go out and buy up so many top line performers, while the Braves struggle with rookies to fill their positions, it is a total mismatch and painful to watch. The two most senior players on the team (and probably with Renteria two of the BEST three players) are feuding with one another which is certainly not helpful. They are both aging players who are subject to injuries and simply don’t have backup players to take up the slack when they are hurt. Andruw is deteriorating before out very eyes and, I believe, has passed the high mark of his career. If he is looking for upwards of $20M next year with the kind of year he is having, he is simply whistling past the graveyard. There are too many competent center fielders in the majors who can also hit, to pay that kind of money to a very good defensive fielder who can’t break a window pane with a bat. The pitching is simply awful and will not get better. Hudson has proved in the time he has been here that he cannot be counted on to produce consistently. Smoltz is aging and could blow out his are at any time. James may come around in the future but certainly is not a dependable starter today. The four and five positions are just miserable and should not even be going out to the mound every fourth and fifth day. In short, this is a team so lacking in talent and leadership that it will go nowhere as it is presently configured. It pains me to say it, but I suspect things will only get worse before they get better. Seems to me Bobby Cox needs to start kicking some butts instead of coddling these fellows and let them know that there are always people in Richmond and Mississippi who can come up and play the kind of minor ball the Braves have been playing all month. This isn’t just a phase they are goiong through, it is a continuation of last year’s miserable performance that can only be cured with an infusion of pitching and offensive talent that can at least compete with the rest of the league. I doubt it is possible for them to compete with the really good teams in the AL, but at least try to compete in your own division. But, doesn’t look like that will happen so long as the current ownership is in charge. I’ve been a Braves fan since they lost to Cleveland in the 1948 World Series and suffered with them through some lean years before the winning run from 1991 to 2005. We know it takes talent to win, and unfortunately the Braves are simply too short of that commodity at this time to compete.

By Mack

June 24, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this

The Braves Suck..Now The Bickering Between Players Has Started! I Would “Clean-House”!! I Would Start With The G.M… Get A YOUNG Coach Who Demands The Best Of His Players.. Get RID Of All The DEAD-WOOD!! If You Cant Play “Billy Ball” You Cant Play!! The Fla. Marlins Come To Play..The Cheapest Team Around & Still Have “More Rings” Than The Braves!! On The Other Side Of The Spectrum,The Sorry A* Yankees, The Highest Payroll In The League & They Suck!! All The Sorry A* Braves Know, Is Swing For The Fence’s!! I Would Get Rid Of The Jones Boys, Smoltz,Hudson & Most Of The So Called Pitching Staff!! I Would Promote The Entire AAA Team & Send The Braves Club DOWN!! No Way In HELL This Club Wins 75 Games This Year!!

By Dan

June 24, 2007 10:37 PM | Link to this

After the ranting and raving, the yelling and screaming, will things change? Probably not. Scheurholz’s hands are tied. The new ownership couldn’t give a fat rat’s beehind whether this team wins or loses. If it does lose, they’ll just write it off as a bad debt. Say what you will about George Steinbrenner, but at least he cares about his team and does get players that can win. Oh, where are you Ted Turner, now that this team needs you? You cared about this team and weren’t afraid to spend money to get players. As it stands now, the Atlanta Braves of 2007 will probably become the new Kansas City Royals. Liberty Media? Who dat?

By Keith

June 24, 2007 11:15 PM | Link to this

Chris Woodward must have a picture of John Schuerholz with a sheep. How the hell is that guy on any major league roster. He is plain bah bah bahd!!! Let’s go get Todd Helton and Mark Buerhle before this season quickly gets away. Let me hear ya ATL.

By No More Cox

June 25, 2007 1:24 AM | Link to this

Can we PLEASE get rid of Bobby Cox? He was great in the 90s but honestly he just doesnt have it anymore. There has been a comfort zone with the Braves since the late 90s and Cox has a lot to do with that. They are way too relaxed when playing in Atlanta. They suck here! I think a guy like Joe Girardi could bring back winning ways here and Cox can work with John Schuerholz. This season can still be saved. BRING SOME NEW ENERGY TO THE PLAYERS, THE FANS AND THE CITY OF ATLANTA!!! Because baseball is dead folks in the dirty south. If you aint first - your last.

By STRETCH

June 25, 2007 9:21 AM | Link to this

ITS TIME FOR BOBBY TO GO, PLAIN AND SIMPLE FOLKS, AND JS IS AWARE OF THAT. BUT LOYALTY KILLS YA SOMETIMES AND THATS WHATS HAPPENINING TO THE BRAVES NOW. BOBBY IS LOYAL TO ANDREW, JS IS LOYAL TO HAMPTON(SITTING AT HOME WRITING CHECKS WITH THAT SUPER ARM OF HIS) AND THERE ARE COUNTLESS OTHER SITUATIONS.

I HAVE NEVER IN MY LIFETIME OF WATCHING THE BRAVES SEEN OFFENSIVE OUTPUT LIKE THIS, I MEAN THIS IS SAD…REALLY SAD. GUYS WALKING UP TO THE PLATE AND ITS ALREADY 0-2. WHY NOT CLOSE YOUR EYES AND SWING, MAYBE YOU WILL HAVE BETTER LUCK. JEEEEEZ!!!

1 RUN IN 5 GAMES??? ARE YOU SERIOUS???!!! I WOULD LIKE TO SAY THAT THIS SEASON IS HARDER TO WATCH THAN LAST SEASON, I MEAN LAST YEAR WHILE IT WAS HAPPENING WE COULDNT BELIEVE IT, BUT THIS SEASON ITS LIKE…MANAGEMENT SHOULD HAVE MADE THE CHANGES IN THE OFF SEASON, BUT THEY DIDNT DO ANYTHING, SO WE EXPECT IT!

AND THAT LINEUP, ANDREW BATTING .199, FRENCHY BACK TO HIS USUAL SWINGING AT THE DIRT, AND MCCANN, I KNOW HE’S A CATCHER BUT COME ON, MY DAUGHTER CAN RUN FASTER THAN HIM AND SHE’S 9!!!! CHIPPERS ON AND OFF THE DL AND COMES BACK AND SCORES THE ONLY RUN, WHAT A SORRY AZZZZZ LINEUP.

By hermie

June 25, 2007 9:24 AM | Link to this

It is not just a pitcher that the BRAVES NEED. THE PRESENT LINEUP needs to take a 50% cut in salary because with a couple of exceptions, they are a listless, lackadaisical assemblage of overpaid characters who will destroy the young talent by their complete indifference to the game! Cox leavces his starting pitching in until there is no possible hope of winning

By Mike in Nashville

June 25, 2007 9:48 AM | Link to this

27 to 1. How in the heck do you get outscored 27 to 1 in 5 games?!?!?

I am just so frustrated with this team now.

Please! Please show some life against the last place Nationals. A 3-game sweep will do wonders.

One last thing, who was the genius that scheduled the Braves to go to Florida then to LA on this upcoming road trip?

By Mike in Nashville

June 25, 2007 9:51 AM | Link to this

27 to 1. How in the heck do you get outscored 27 to 1 in 5 games?!?!?

I am just so frustrated with this team now.

Please! Please show some life against the last place Nationals. A 3-game sweep will do wonders.

One last thing, who was the genius that scheduled the Braves to go to Florida then to LA on this upcoming road trip?

By Dave knockahomer

June 25, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this

When I realized we play the Nationals tonight, I thought! hey, we can win….but I am not so sure anymore. This team needs revamping ……something is terribly wrong! looks like teams in the 80’s. Can remember going to games then and truly have choice seats cause there was hardly anyone there! IF this team doesn’t pick it up, attendance will drop—-big time!
It is sickening…..and I think Cox needs to go, but even if that happens [which it won’t] will anyone learn how to hit?
maybe a new hitting coach? read where McCann had his dad up to help him when he was doing so poorly. Seemed to help a little. And chipper’s dad is on the spot when needed. Maybe one or both of those should be the new hitting coach. I love TP,…but as a hitting coach, he seems to be lacking. Someone needs to kick AJ in his a* and let that same a* pick up splinters from bench sitting! wish Escobar could play outfield. oh well….another bad year and one even worse than last year! We have youngster that can do us good, but we need to let go of some deadwood now! Loyalty to AJ is not loyalty——it is stupidity!

By N GA BOB

June 25, 2007 11:11 AM | Link to this

Am I the only one that’s tired of hearing poor old AJ…..AJ’S WOES….It just takes one bad apple to ruin the whole barrel full. And this crap about fan support!!!!!!!!!!! These so-called players are being paid damn good money to play baseball. That means playing in a cow pasture, sandlot, anywhere with or without someone watching. I think it’s about time to bring in an entire AAA team and swap them with all these professional, whining babies.

By Ed Giovanola

June 25, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this

The 7th-9th innings were absolutely unacceptable Sunday Night.

Andruw walks and Salty K’s. That’s fine, but then Woodward comes up. Woodward is TERRIBLE. He should not even be on the team. That not withstanding, you have a new reliever and you have a TON of lefty bats on the bench. You can pinch hit practically anyone. McCann with Salty moving to first, Johnson with Thorman coming in to play first, etc. No. Woodward stays in and K’s, then Kelly pinch hits ANYWAY. He walks. So we could’ve had 1st and 2d with 1 out and Orr could’ve come up and sac’d or we could’ve PH with Thorman or McCann. Completely wasted pair of base runners.

Then, we get a runner on in the 8th and Durbin all over the place again, lo and behold, no one is taking pitches, including Chipper, who swings at the first pitch and tops it back to Durbin.

In the 9th, we get a runner on AGAIN, in Salty, with one out. Almost the entire bench is left. McCann could pinch hit and stay in to play catcher, Thorman could PH. Hell, let Harris take a shot at it. No, instead, Woodward is up again and grounds into a double play.

It is time for Blanco or Prado or even Mendez to come up from AAA, or hell, bring Brandon Jones up from Missip’, but this offense is terrible, and Bobby is just not helping out as much as he could.

WE NEED TO SCORE A DAMNED RUN TONIGHT!!!

By Stan

June 25, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this

OK, Josh Beckett’s pretty good, maybe he gets a shutout. But since then, we’ve put up goose eggs against a 12 year journeyman pitcher (Taveres), the almost AARP eligible Kenny Rogers on his 1st appearance of the year throwing batting practice junk (top speed I saw was 86 mph), and the latest in a long line of wunderkind rookies - Miller. Thanks to Chipper’s gut check performance Saturday, we squeezed a solitary run out of Justin Verlander.

This is really pathetic. Typically the Braves are a solid fundamental team, but we’re not even moving runners from 2nd to 3rd with nobody out. Meanwhile, the Tigers have a guy steal 3rd so their RELIEF PTICHER can bring him in on a sac fly. Forget post-season hunger guys, how about showing some freakin’ pride?!

By Donald Gunter

June 25, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

From the dugout shots shown on TV, the guys were really enjoying getting their Asses kicked again. You would have thought they were at a picnic. It’s time to clean house starting with that self proclaimed “genius” GM. Smoltz seems to be the team clown, just keeping everyone laughing.

By James

June 25, 2007 11:51 AM | Link to this

Who needs to go: Andruw Jones (wont be coached, too much money). Chipper (prone to injury, too much money, where’s the heart?). Mike Hampton (have we seen anything from him but injuries and a black hole for millions in salary??). Woodward (Poor defense, worse offense). Chuck James (is there anyone’s grandmother that couldnt throw harder AND better?). Half the Bullpen (you pick ‘em, just leave Soreano alone).

What the Braves need: P-I-T-C-H-I-N-G!!! Good grief! Can we get a decent Starter and perhaps a couple of Viable arms in the bullpen?? Preferably the kind that dont have a tendency to give up a dozen hits and walks every outing. Surely some fool of a club would take Hapton and James for a good Starter.

P-O-W-E-R! The Braves desperately need run-producing bats. Especially those that can hit to all fields of play.

Getting rid of Chipper, Andruw, and Hampton should free enough salary to get a starter, a reliever, and a couple of bats, plus relieve poverty to a few 3rd world nations.

There may be feelings of loyalty to Chipper and Andruw, but they arent who they used to be. The chipper of the 90’s does not exist. The baby faced Andruw is no longer reliable at the bat. They take up far too much salary for what they give. Chipper’s average is over 300 as always and leads the Braves in HRs, but his recent display of attitude shows his heart is not with this team. And an injury prone 30-something body sitting the bench will not help score runs. Just like a ball thats hit clear to Marietta will not score a run if its (A) never touched by bat because you are too busy spinning yourself into the ground or(B) Hit 300 feet left of the left field foul pole.

And please get Jeff back to whatever happy place he was a the start of the season. He has the potential to be such a great hitter!

By bobby

June 25, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this

Somebody has to be kidding telling us this is a major league baseball team. I’m not sure they could beat my grandson’s little league team.

By Michael T

June 25, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

It would be a great service to your public if you had a primer that listed those Braves who can’t (or, almost can’t) be traded because of their contracts and those that have little or no trade value at the moment for other reasons and printed this primer (updated when needbe) before each of the discussions. admitting to much ignorance on such things, I’d suggest trading A.Jones and a n infield prospect for a promising young pitcher. One thing I hate is trading for a veteran who doesn’t perform. You always wonder if he’s still putting forth the effort.

By Lionel

June 25, 2007 8:10 PM | Link to this

It’s time to get rid of the Jones Boys and Smoltz and start all over….those that are being paid the most have to go. We can’t win with them we just as soon lose without them. I have had enough and am now officially waiting for football season. See ya next spring