ajcsportstalk

By mark

July 1, 2007 7:03 PM | Link to this

What’s wrong with Wickman? He doesn’t seem the same. Renteria got screwed! Maybe Soriano should close and Tyler Yates should setup. Just a thought.

By DJ Cuse

July 1, 2007 7:14 PM | Link to this

It is time to pull the plug on Wicky and Andruw. We need to play Willie in CF and have Yates or Soriano close. This season could be over after this roadtrip. Thank god the Yankees blow so I do not have to listen to everybody in NY.

By Najeh Davenpoop

July 1, 2007 7:15 PM | Link to this

I like McCann, but he honestly didn’t deserve to make it. He’s having a good season, not an All-Star season, and there are three or four other NL catchers who have been just as good if not better. Renteria on the other hand has been rock solid — he definitely should have made it, even despite the stiff competition. I don’t think Soriano’s been dominant enough to be an All-Star, but Tim Hudson has a pretty strong case, since he hasn’t been much worse than Smoltz if at all.

By Wendy

July 1, 2007 7:26 PM | Link to this

It’s hard to argue that Reyes and Hardy aren’t deserving at SS, even though Renteria is having great year. The bigger injustice is that Chipper has certainly outplayed David Wright at 3B, even with all the injuries.

By Dawgs2007

July 1, 2007 7:36 PM | Link to this

Wickman is a fat ba$tard. He throws junk and he is lucky that he does not have more than 4 blown saves.

I am begining to cringe when I see his wide a$$ trudging to the mound.

By Tsk Tsk

July 1, 2007 7:49 PM | Link to this

Good grief, the Braves fans are unforgiving. Wickman has problems with the Marlins. Ok that’s ONE team. He’s a lot better than what we had last year. When the Braves got him everyone was going FINALLY! but now you want to take him out. You can’t win every game. You can’t be perfect all the time. Soriano also gave up some runs! I really do think despite Andruw showing some life should be moved down. He’s getting hits against a so-so pitching club. However the other players are getting more than one hit. Bobby Cox is doing an injustice to Atl’s team. We could gained a 1/2 game on the Mets. We need those with our schedule compared to the Met’s.

By jimcpa

July 1, 2007 7:59 PM | Link to this

Smoltz sure, although I hope he does nothing to wear on his arm in the all star game..mccann no. Average is just plain average, home runs are anemic, has had several pb’s, etc. As to Wickman, the league is figuring out he has no real out pitch..no blazing fastball..etc. Wait for him to throw a strike and you’ll either walk or have a fat one to hit…the mets are getting it straightened out, so the braves better look out west for wild card competition…and look behind at pHilly too…if they go 2-5 or worse on the road trip, its done.

By Dave knockahomer

July 1, 2007 8:08 PM | Link to this

Absolutely cannot believe Renteria is not on the AllStar list! man, talk about getting screwed! McCann has done okay considering injuries but Edgar has been OUTSTANDING! Can’t figure out why he wasn’t selected! and came in 6th…..give me a friggin break!

By 1BRAVE DAWG

July 1, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this

I think it’s BS that Renteria was left off the NL reserve roster. I hope Edgar sticks it to LaRussa every chance he gets this year.

By Andy

July 1, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this

How did McCann make the All Star team but not Renteria ? I don’t understand that at all.

By dferw

July 1, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this

Good for Smoltzie. He deserves it after catching his wife diddling her personal trainer before spring training.

By Andy

July 1, 2007 8:25 PM | Link to this

The All-Star game voting is a joke anyway. If fans had 1/2 a brain they would vote for the players having the best year, so that their league would win the game and have home field advantage in the world series.

By Nola

July 1, 2007 8:33 PM | Link to this

Cox blows another !! He is the most determined person I’ve ever seen. He MUST have Wickman pith the 9th, no matter how many runs and hits he has given up.

By Stuart

July 1, 2007 8:39 PM | Link to this

I’m not a fan of Bonds getting in, but he’s been playing pretty well and the game is in S.F. so it’s not that big of a deal. I would have taken Beltran over him though. But my problem is with the backups. The deepest position in the NL is at shortstop and LaRussa picks ONE backup!? It all probably has to do with every team having to have at least one player on the team, but how is Atl’s Edgar Renteria not on the team!? Also, I know there’s not much depth at catcher in the NL, but how DID McCann make the team? He hasn’t exactly been lighting it up like last year (mainly due to nagging injuries). And Brian Fuentes making it over Chris Young? How is that? There’s already one Rockie on the team (Holliday), so how does Fuentes get in? What’s LaRussa thinking? Plus, the one solid, deserving player on the NL in Prince Fielder needs THREE backups at first base? What!? I don’t get any of this…

By Ryan

July 1, 2007 8:45 PM | Link to this

Face it… We’re gonna have to suffer through Andruw through the rest of the season, but Wickman? What’s the loyalty to this guy? Yates to set up, Soriano to close, Wickman to the buffet.

By rocketman

July 1, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this

Sad when home field advantage in thw WS is determined by fans picking their favorite players and every team required to have a representative. How fair is that? Too bad about Renteria as he is our most fundamentally sound player and having a great season. Mccann is a good player to have on the roster since the catching position is weak. They can use the LH bat as a PH.

As a Braves and Tigers fan, watching a game after the 7th inning is a nightmare. Wickman, Todd Jones, two peas in a pod. It bugs me to see any professional athlete who strolls to the mound wih a big fat gut - I don’t care if he has 40 saves or not. He’d be more effective if in shape. The onus is on mgmt.

By Darren

July 1, 2007 9:03 PM | Link to this

Chipper got hosed!!!!! He put up better numbers than the other 3rd baseman in way less games!!!!!!! What the hell is LaRussa doing picking 4 1st baseman. That is total BS!!!

By jbutler

July 1, 2007 9:21 PM | Link to this

Hey dferw…thanks for tossing some National Enquirer-type gossip into the fray!!! The Wickman to the buffet comment really did make me laugh, though. Guess he’s not spending much time w/anyones personal trainer!!!

By Jeff

July 1, 2007 9:25 PM | Link to this

Is it my imagination or is Wickman’s ERA almost 5.00? What kind of closer has an ERA that high? He’s KILLING this team. Bobby was smart enough to use Escobar and Salty, why doesn’t he stop using that BEER LEAGUE has-been? I’m sick of that lard-a$$!!!!

By John B.

July 1, 2007 9:28 PM | Link to this

Darren: Every team has to have a rep. at the game, so who else on the Cardinals + the Nationals would you replace with Pujols and Young? You sure as hell can’t leave off Derrek Lee either

By John

July 1, 2007 9:32 PM | Link to this

I cannot believe Renteria did not make the team. He has kept the Braves in the hunt by himself for the most part. I think Hardy was selected over him because the Brewers are surprisingly in first place and there was a need to reward them. Edgar is batting .324 while Hardy is batting .284. Even though Soriano got the loss today, I think he should be closing. I don’t mean to hate on Wickman but I just dont feel real comfortable with him in the game. Also, why dont we just try to move Diaz to first and keep Willie in left. We need his speed in the game at all times.

By jbutler

July 1, 2007 9:36 PM | Link to this

John B…I think having every team represented is ridiculous. Truly. But the game itself has no credibility - why else would Selig let it end in a tie several years ago?? But the millenium must be on its way cause a pitcher from the Rockies was selected. I think I’m going to have to start my food storage!!!

By Judy

July 1, 2007 9:40 PM | Link to this

Just read on MLB.com that Chipper blames going to the outfield for his foot and leg problems because “on the infield you don’t have to run all out”. Are you kidding me? That was three years ago and in those three years he’s played in 69% of the Braves games. Chipper is a donkey and I’m ripping glad that the fans and players recognized this and didn’t vote him to the AS game. He also says that the reason he hasn’t made an all star team this century is because of going to the outfield but that he plans to be an all star again before he retires. He couldn’t make the Cobb County Youth All Star team. I’m sorry Edgar didn’t make the team but, also, glad because he can use the four days to rest and recover from busting his fanny all season. I hope all the Braves can get some rest and re-create the beginning of the season when they were on fire. I’m looking forward to after the AS game. Might we see some changes with Soriano closing, AJ dropped to seventh or eighth, Salty come into his own with the bat, a healthier McCann, the list goes on and on. Take four or five of six this week boys. Enjoy the time off and come back ready to trash the NL East.

By charlie

July 1, 2007 9:56 PM | Link to this

Wickman is a bum. His career as a closer should be over. He doesn’r know what a 1-2-3 inning is. I hate seeing him come with a game on the line. I was in Minnesota when he blew Hudson’s 2 hitter. He was “deer in the headlights” lost. He has no command, but is excellent at making excuses. Wickman’s screwups don’t surprise me anymore. Soriano was a huge disappointment today. Our comeback in the 9th was thrilling. The bullpen, after the rain delay, was shades 0fn 2006. It just jerks out your heart. This team is a .500 group. That’s all they will be in 2007. Andruw was true to his 2007 form. He had his solo shot, but with runners on, he’s as close to an automatic out as there is. He’s a hitter with no idea or approach. Too bad he won’t allow the Braves to trade him this month, so the club can get something for him.

By Miguel Olivo

July 1, 2007 10:17 PM | Link to this

Note to Bob Wickman … stop pitching to me. I see the ball from you better than you see a plate of Ribs from Sonny’s.

By Bob Wickman

July 1, 2007 10:26 PM | Link to this

Olivo … I don’t even like ribs. Besides, what is going 6 for 6 with 2 homeruns against me really mean in the big scheme of things. It hurts when you tease me about Sonny’s … I can’t help it. I like those really BIG cups of sweet tea. And on a side note … I’m a pulled pork guy. So there!!!

By gb

July 1, 2007 10:33 PM | Link to this

the vote had to be rigged. no way the fans voted bonds to the game. i doubt if he gor 50,000 votes outside of san francisco.

By gotigers72

July 1, 2007 11:18 PM | Link to this

why, why, why, why, why, why, why, why, why, why, why, why, why, why, why, why, why, why, why, why, why, why, why, why, do you keep hitting Andruw in the cleanup spot Bobby? He’s not cleaning nothing up. So he hit a solo homer today, BFD. He came up with 2 on and nobody out, tried to pull a pitch that he shouldn’t have tried to pull and hit into a double play. His average is still .199, and was .143 in THE ENTIRE MONTH OF JUNE. If you ask me if I’m so smart who would I bat cleanup, my answer would be anyone hitting over .250, which is anybody else in the Braves lineup that plays regularly. Any one else would be driving in runs from that spot, but Andruw ain’t. He should be hitting 7th or 8th until 1 - He changes his approach and quits trying to pull everything or 2 - He gets hot. Come on Bobby, geez.

Edgar definitely deserves to be on the All Star team and McCann doesn’t. McCann said so himself. Edgar is having a GREAT year on offense and defense. The Braves would be 5 games below .500 w/o Edgar playing the way he has.

I expect the Braves to rebound from that tough loss today. They usually do, usually are resilient after bad losses. Smoltz going tonight gives them a good chance at a W.

All closers and even elite setup men have a period during the year when they struggle. Trevor Hoffman and Mariano Rivera, arguably the 2 best closers ever, both had bad stretches early in the year, but have now righted their ship. And by bad stretches I mean several games where they blew saves. Rivera went through a particularly bad stretch. I expect Wickman and Soriano to get back on track soon.

By Jman

July 1, 2007 11:31 PM | Link to this

TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW TRADE ANDRUW

By Darren

July 1, 2007 11:34 PM | Link to this

Johnny B. I get the point that every team needs to be represented. There are many things LaRussa could have done. I personally would have put gone with Chad Cordero as the Nationals rep. He has 14 saves and a 3.00 ERA. Then he could have only kept 3 1b’s and added an additional 3B or SS. He only has two of those. I personally would have added either Chipper or Edgar. LaRussa is just a punk. I have never liked him or his coaching style. I don’t think Bobby likes him either.

By Darren

July 1, 2007 11:39 PM | Link to this

Judy, Back up off of Chipper. He is a gamer. If you don’t think there is more running in the Outfield than at 3rd then you obviously haven’t played the game at a high competative level.

In other news, Albert Pujols has no class and was given a free pass (4 1st basemen) by his punk manager Tony LaPussa, I mean LaRussa. I’m still p** at Pujols for what he said about Tommy after Glavine shut his team down during the playoffs last year.

By Kentavo

July 2, 2007 12:07 AM | Link to this

LaRussa is a punk, but he wants to win so he picked Smoltz, but he also wanted to snub Cox and Renteria by not picking Edgar. That’ll teach him to sign a contract with Boston instead of staying in the land of overated beer.

By jbutler

July 2, 2007 12:11 AM | Link to this

GB- I heard on ESPN that Bonds was almost 200k under the lowest starting NL outfielder in vote totals prior to the weekend. Then…mysteriously…he is almost 200k over the lowest starting vote getter for NL outfielders. He made up almost 400k votes…in 2 days???? For a widely unpopular player??? Right. Pass me some of that drug we’re supposedly enjoying.

By gotigers72

July 2, 2007 12:16 AM | Link to this

Judy - Glad to see you have such a vast knowledge of baseball! I base this on your take on Chipper. Glad you don’t let little things like stats get in the way, or the fact that most people who really do know baseball still consider him one of the game’s best players, or the fact of how incredibly hot he was before he went on the DL. He’s been hot since he came off of the DL too, just hasn’t hit many gappers or homers like he usually does.

If Bobby does the right thing and puts someone hitting behind Chipper besides that lame Andruw, I think after 4 days off from the All Star break, Chipper comes out scorching. If Bobby doesn’t move Andruw, no manager or pitcher in their right minds will pitch to Chipper, especially with runners on.

Chipper belonged on the All Star team. Even with his time on the DL, his stats are still better than NL third basemen. The next time you post judy, try to make it a little more knowledgable and intelligent.

By Serbok

July 2, 2007 1:03 AM | Link to this

The ABSOLUTE WORST move Mr. Cox ever did was move chipper to left!!!! Chipper did it for the team thinkin he was advised to do so by a future HOF manager I think Chipper knows better now? Do any of the bloggers here know better? I think a few do. MR Cox may have caused Chipper to NOT make the HOF due to his illusionary baseball acumen! Chipper “took” one for the team when he thought Mr cox was who he is not! Mr Cox OWES Chipper a huge apology! Braves Fan’s should also understand what happened during that time!

By John B.

July 2, 2007 1:11 AM | Link to this

I don’t like the fact that every team has to be represented either, but it is what it is. Young has been -the- best player on his team this year, by far. Cordero has had his problems this year. As for Pujols, he’s the only deserving play outside of Eckstein on that team(neither of them being deserving). Just keeping it real, but even with Chipper’s numbers, he shouldn’t be in the game. Has just been hurt way too much this year. I am thoroughly p** about Edgar though, he should have been there.

By Serbok

July 2, 2007 1:14 AM | Link to this

To be Honest folks, I think there is MORE watering down on the Blog:o( I honestly do not feel as tho “Judy” is a female:o( The post just doesnt come off that way to me. I dunno maybe I’m wrong, just dont feel as tho “Judy” is female. Just another one of those DumbA$$ guys who are are afraid of their identity, Judy, If I am incorrect~ I do apologize, However, YOU know who you are? I am who I am~and here I am~ He couldn’t make the Cobb County Youth All Star team That part does sound like a female tho!

By Braves Fan 79

July 2, 2007 1:56 AM | Link to this

Cox should of realized wickman was going thru a little bit of a slump and put in soriano from the start. This loss sucked thou….but i think we should of had more runs if not for woodward starting at 1st base. (i bet weve lose at least 70% of all the games weve started woodward/orr.) Hey its hard to win when u have 2 automatic outs back to back in the lineup.

By jed

July 2, 2007 2:30 AM | Link to this

has anyone ever won the MVP w/out making the allstar team? because it looks like renteria has a shot. how could la russa not pick him? that’d be like bobby cox not picking chipper…or…uh…not starting thorman.

By jed

July 2, 2007 2:42 AM | Link to this

i was watching espn tonight and they’re talking about NL all-stars at SS, and all they’re focusing on is rollins and reyes. not a single word about edgar! it was outrageous. i’ve looked at the stats and i’ve seen all these guys play—they’re great, no doubt—but renteria’s having as good a season as reyes and a better season than the rest of them.

By Big Ed

July 2, 2007 7:48 AM | Link to this

It was only a few days ago that Chipper was telling us he may have to go on the DL. Then he got called out by a true ALLSTAR John Smoltz. He probably has a bonus in his contract if he is selected for the game. Hey Chipper take the time to get some rest and heal all your little aches and pains. The Braves need you for the second half of the season.

By David

July 2, 2007 7:49 AM | Link to this

Cox’s loyalty is gonna cause us to lose the division for sure and most likely the WC. Keeping Andruw batting 4th is a joke He has lost 6-8 games this year because of the hole in the lineup. MOVE HIM DOWN. He is NOT in a slump, he is a HEAD CASE.

Bottom line on Wickman….can you EVER forsee an opportunity for Wickman to be saving World Series games and winning??? NEVER. If that is the obvious conclusion, then figure out who else will…Soriano, Yates….

By Suenah

July 2, 2007 7:52 AM | Link to this

Does Mac deserve to go?? Come on people!!! Are mlb players blind??? How can you not pick Edgar?

By chipdip

July 2, 2007 8:18 AM | Link to this

The all-star game….interleague play and bud selig are all nothing but a friggin’joke!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By rob

July 2, 2007 8:48 AM | Link to this

Do you know why Renteria didnt make it, in fact why he came in 6th, is cause you fair weather fans, dont get off your hands to vote, thats why, you have NO one to blame but yourself!!!!

and wickman, have another hot dog there buddie!…geeze!

By ChampDawg

July 2, 2007 9:11 AM | Link to this

(1) Renteria and Smoltz deserve to go. McCann does not. Neither his bat or is arm are as good as last season.

(2) The Braves have won 5 of the last 6 and STILL trail the Mets by 4 and lead the Phils only be 1. The Braves need to win 5 of 7 on the remaining road trip.

(3) With Soriano and Yates, Wickman is not as valuable as last year. But I think we have to keep him because of the loss of Gonzalez. Need 3 late arms out there. After the season, let him go.

By Turnin2

July 2, 2007 9:12 AM | Link to this

I know it’s an honor, but if I were a player - unless I got a BIG bonus for appearing in the ASG - I’d relish the time off during a LONG season.

I’d prefer both Smoltz and BMac not attend due for health issues - we need them down the road and these few days off could make a difference.

By ChampDawg

July 2, 2007 9:17 AM | Link to this

How feakin’ difficult can it be to simply put your best nine bats in the lineup and put them in the right order. Salty and Harris should be starting every game. And Andruw batting clean-up is a joke. Cox is a dumb-@$$.

By Geoff

July 2, 2007 9:29 AM | Link to this

Wickman will be fine… he just obviously does poorly against the Marlins… which should be something Bobby needs to take into account when a close game is in order with the Fish.

By tampabrave

July 2, 2007 9:42 AM | Link to this

Wickman is no Dan Kolb. Maybe he struggles with the South Florida climate. He’ll be fine. We could do a lot worse.

Soriano concerns me. Maybe he needs more work to stay sharp.

Everybody get off Chipper’s a*. He’s a gamer and a team player. Until you can walk in his shoes, and you can’t, shut your pieholes and let it all play out.We are lucky to have him and alot of teams would snatch him up if we let him go. Renteria, IPO, did not get in because of his defense. He is decent, not great. Limited range and average arm.

I am superstitious, so when TBS named Escobar player of the game before the Marlin’s had batted in the ninth, I knew something would go wrong.

The thing to do with Andruw is this, bat him 3rd in front of Chipper. Tell him to be very patient, even if he strikes out looking a few times. Eventually, he’ll start seeing more balls he can hit.

That is all!!

By Britt

July 2, 2007 9:52 AM | Link to this

Smoltz deserves it. Renteria deserves it. Chipper should be a reserve behind Cabrera of the Marlins. No way any Mets should be starting. Looking at the bright side, at least they get a rest.

By Amber

July 2, 2007 10:10 AM | Link to this

Smoltz and McCann are very deserving of going to the All-Star game. In my opinion, Chipper deserves to go too, but I’m not surprised at the snub because of his injuries. But Renteria was flat-out robbed. He’s not even getting a mention on Baseball Tonight! The best shortstop in the NL isn’t even going to be an All-Star.

Wickman really worries me, even more so because we’ve got him signed. Andruw… why the ever-living #(=&)@&!*#)#$(?!@ is he still batting cleanup??????? WHY??????? He shouldn’t be batting at all, but frankly he’s sinking the team at 4th.

By JS

July 2, 2007 10:11 AM | Link to this

I am afraid Bobby Cox is forgiving to a fault to his players(better to treat them like family). How can he continue to support Andruw and Wickman in July of the season. Andruw needs some time off with a therapist and Wickman needs time off to lose fifty pounds and some time with Andruw’s therapist. Also, out of position players, unfortunately, usually play like out of position players—badly and even worse in late game insertion in a close game. Chipper proves a point that playing hurt may be to his advantage. Time off is the worst thing he could do, as he seems to play better with aches than when he is 100%. Liberty: buy the Chicago pitcher.

By Stan

July 2, 2007 10:20 AM | Link to this

Smoltz was a no-brainer for the All Star game, McCann a pleasant surprise, but the players who voted him in must have been remembering his 2006 season, when he was much more consistent both offensively and defensively.

I agree with most of the posters that Renteria deserved All Star honors, and thought LaRusa’s past relationship would help get him in. But remember that the managers pick last, after the fan and player votes, meaning they are the ones who get stuck with making sure that all teams are represented. So because LaRusa’s hands were tied, Edgar got the shaft. Don’t know the details of his contract, hopefully he didn’t miss a bonus because of this, because he’s certainly been our most consistent offensive performer from opening day forward.

Hudson and Chipper were the only other Braves I thought might get some attention. Tim was crowded out by a lot of great pitching from the Western division, and I guess Chipper wasn’t in the lineup enough to make waves. Still believe Chipper is a little under-appreciated here, both for what he means to the lineup and the team player he’s been for us throughout his career. Many of the baby Braves credit Chipper’s advice about approaching pitchers for their offensive success.

By Dawgs2007

July 2, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this

Thank God Andruw is gone after this season. Scott Boras must be losing sleep over this one. There is no way Bobby is going to bench him for more than a game.

Cox is a wussy and needs to retire.

By GT80

July 2, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this

Two things that will never happen that should.
1) Cox needs to forget the “Wickman is our closer and WILL pitch the 9th”. We have 3 good arms to pitch the 8th and 9th in Yates, Soriano and Wickman. Go with who is hot and keep them all fresh and let them all get save opportunities. 2) Move Andruw into the 8th slot in the order. Gonna be hard to overtake the Mets with that big hole in the middle of the lineup. Andruw is showing small signs of life but my God, he’s still just up there hacking away with no real clue as to how to hit.

It’s amazing to watch the difference between Chipper, McCann, Renteria, even Salty and to some extent Francouer and Andruw and their approach to hitting. Even Kelly Johnson is hitting with an idea of what he wants to do. Taking some pitches, looking for a specific pitch in a location to hit. Andruw is just up there hacking away and hoping he hits the ball hard and gets lucky. Hell, that approach has worked for 11 years to the point where he’s being paid 13M, so why would he change now.

By STRETCH

July 2, 2007 11:01 AM | Link to this

IM COMPLETELY DUMBFOUNDED. IM NOT A MANAGER OR A PLAYER, DONT HAVE ANY EXPERIENCE PLAYING BASEBALL, HECK I CANT EVEN PLAY SOFTBALL, BUT I DO KNOW 3 THINGS:

By BossLady

July 2, 2007 11:19 AM | Link to this

dferw, did you personally see Smotlze’s wife with the trainer? I agree that Lurussa is a punk, he has always hated the Braves. The bad karma in his organization should tell him something. Chipper has lost his popularity with the fans, so,, he should shut up. I have seen Trevor Hoffman, Mario Rivera and Billy Wagner give up saves. well la de da Why can’t we just watch the damn games enjoy the wins and try to support the Braves. I enjoyed the Nationals and Marlins series, we did go 5-1, didn’t we?

By GT80

July 2, 2007 11:23 AM | Link to this

Oh, and Renteria got screwed. Me thinks LaRussa holds a grudge against him and Cox.

By Alan Moore

July 2, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this

Cox should have never brought Wickman into the game. After the melt down the day before he should have brought in Yates.

By Terry YOung

July 2, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this

I know a Clevland fan, and he was right, he said, Clevland was glad to see Wickman go…could not believe how well he was doing last season with the Braves…he said, Y’all will get a taste of him blowing games soon enough, and as for Bobby Cox…you know, act like you care about the FANS who are tired of your loyalty to the players who DO NOT GET THE JOB DONE! As a fan, he honestly drives me crazy with his pitching decisions…..the Braves have him to blame for some blown saves.. remember when he let Hudson go too long….wasnt that aganst the Marlins too? Then Wideload Wickman, blows a masterful pitching performance for Timmy Hudson. Andruw, what a pathetic at bat with no outs, and when he hit into the double play, was it me,,,or did it look like he was not hustling? Can you say Willie Harris in Center Field? GEEZZZZZZZZ!

By iwalterp

July 2, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

The problem is not with Wickman. Every player will have a team that he has a mental block against. Either he can’t hit their pitching or he can’t get them out. The problem is with Cox. he is the most predictable manager in baseball. I don’t know where Joe Morgan gets this “unconventional manager” stuff from. Other managers have a sense and feel for the game. A LaRussa, Leyman,or Pinnella would have sensed or felt Wickman’s inability to deal with this team by the past record and the game the night before. Especially with Olivo coming to bat first. They would have brought in Soriano to close. Wickman’s still your closer but this game ,because of the way your team has battled back ,is too important to chance losing by trying not to hurt Wickman’s feelings. The irony is, I bet you Wickman would have welcomed the move because the next series he is back as the primary closer against a team he does not have a mental block. A great manager has a feel for putting a player in the best position for him to succeed and not putting him in the best position to fail. A veteran player will never say that he wanted to be taken out or not used at all, but deep inside he knows that he should have been. Cox’s moves always places the pressure on the player. The pressure is never on him, because although we can criticize not letting Soriano close he can easily explain it by saying Wickman’s my closer. Wickman based on recent history predictably failed, so he is the bum. If he puts Soriano in and he fails then the pressure of explaining this unconventional move is on Cox and not Wickman or Soriano.

By BamaBrave

July 2, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this

There’s definitely no love lost between LaRussa and Cox. “The Russian” is a prima donna drunk with an ego the size of Mount Rusmore. He’s a frigging lawyer…that pretty much says it all…

By iwalterp

July 2, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this

Andruw’s continued failure while batting in the cleanup spot, may turn out to be a JS and BC stroke of financial genious. It hurts the team this year, but by continually putting Andruw in the cleanup spot and watching him underachieve, does two things. (1) other teams are less likely to offer a contract much higher than the Braves in off season. and (2) Andruw and his agent have no bargaining room for a substantial long term contract. Because of the whole world seeing his failure as a “big bopper” ala “Big Poppy” .,etc. Andruw will quietly sign a one year extension of his Braves contrat for about the same amount he is getting now.

By BamaBrave

July 2, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

Dittos to all of STRETCH’s comments… Did I hear correctly yesterday that McCann has only thrown out 6 or 7 runners all year, versus 30-something attempts? It’s a wonder we don’t get run on all the time. Is Salty any better back there?

By Troutman

July 2, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this

Smoltz is a spoiled little drama queen who cares only about his personal stats. Have you noticed how many times this season he has rearranged a start to face a weaker pitching opponent?

By Enquiring Mind

July 2, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this

DYAN SMOLTZ diddling her personal trainer???

C’mon … let’s hear it. FINALLY … something of REAL interest on this blog.

And you say JOHN caught them ??? Thank you, Jesus (and I don’t mean Alou).

DIRT!!! We need more DIRT!!!

By mark roe

July 2, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this

the only thing Bob Wickman can finish is an all you can eat buffet

By mark roe

July 2, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this

Andrew Jones is the best one tool center fielder in baseball

By Enquiring Mind

July 2, 2007 12:41 PM | Link to this

C’mon, dferw, give us the goods! Who was the personal trainer?

Any video? Lord have MERCY, she cried.

By Luv 2 Hate Me

July 2, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

Wickman’s fat azz needs to drop a few pounds then maybe he’ll be able to throw strikes or get out of a inning. He’s garbage and overrated!

By libby

July 2, 2007 1:11 PM | Link to this

There is NO WAY that Barry Bonds came in third. This is LaRussa’a way of avoiding a lot of media questions. By the results saying the “fans voted” him in, the steroid question probably will not come up. That cheater is not liked anywhere but S.F. So how did he come in third?

By Jersey Gil

July 2, 2007 1:14 PM | Link to this

Again the Media and the New York fan did it again…Jose Reyes will start the Allstar game…un real…i was one of then that i thought that Reyes have better record that Renteria until i compare today there stats…. Renteria: H=99 RBI 41 Avg 324 Slg 493 Reyes:H: 103 Rbi 34 Avg 317 Slg 452 If i have to pick up one today…i pick up Renteria far better Stats. Unreal what the media do.

By Deuce22

July 2, 2007 1:32 PM | Link to this

Who determines the “Final Vote” and what’s up with Zambrano showing up on the list and not Huddy!! Shows you MLB knows exactly what they’re doing; way to get it right guys.

By Jersey Gil

July 2, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this

GT80 Larussa did not pick up JJ hardy…the player was the one that pick up Hardy… And the Fan Pick up Reyes at ss…

By Stuart

July 2, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this

The braves bullpen has been so overated all year. Sorino was lights out for May, but other than that, he has been average and has been giving up alot of long balls. Wickman is terrible. I bought my first HDTV this week and man he is ALOT fatter than I thought. He is downright out of shape. That is a disgrace. BTW, how bad is the catching in the NL that McCann is an all star and probably WAS the best pick. Not knock Mac, but he has not had a great year.

By justin

July 2, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this

wickman is a bum bum bummidy bum bum. did i mention he is a bum?

By Dawgma

July 2, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

Jersey Girl,

I am a Braves fan and while Rent is having a grat year along with Reyes, you forgot to mention there is one thing Reyes has that Rent doesn’t….. speed. Reyes can steal bases and he’s a heckuva SS as well. If Reyes gets on base, he’s an automatic double.

By JD

July 2, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

Lets see what happens after the allstar break, go Braves!

By Dawgma

July 2, 2007 2:07 PM | Link to this

Chipper has better stats than the other 3B’s because he has played in less games. The more games you play, the more likely your average will go down. Duh.

By Rick Roberts

July 2, 2007 2:15 PM | Link to this

Seems like everyone has it right—Soriano needs to be the closer. I saw Wickman pitch in MN and watch him on TV—he has lost it. The Otsuka rumors are appealing—he could set up. Yates can, too, but he can be somewhat inconsistent. Don’t need Paronto either. AJones should be dropped to eighth in the order—they really need to move him, though. He and his agent would accept a trade to LA—either team out there—they have the prospects. Jo Jo Reyes will be ready after the ALL Star break—he has had three good outings in AAA. Thorman to Toronto for pitching, too. And, I agree with all on Renteria—he has really carried this team—LaRussa is a bum! Willie Harris and Yunel Escobar must be in the lineup nearly every day—they bring excitement that the others don’t and create runs. Without some major changes by JS and BC, the Braves will falter and will be passed by both the Phillies and Marlins. Let’s see, attendance and revenues go down, too. Do the right things and the Braves can still make the playoffs.

By Eric from MO

July 2, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

Renteria should not of made the team. Reyes and Hardy have had better seasons. Also Rollins and Ramarez have had better seasons. The only difference is Renteria plays for the Braves and you all want him on the team. McCann has not had that great of season however there is no great hitting catcher in the NL so he is just as good as any.

Why is it everyone is blaming Wickman but Soriano is getting a pass. Soriano ERA has been climbing the past couple of weeks too and he is the one that eventually lost the game.

By BamaBrave

July 2, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this

I’m glad Smoltz has been recognized, but I’d rather he rest the shoulder. Watch LaRussa use Smoltz for 40-50 pitches…and guess who the Braves play the week after the All-Star Game?

By Leo Mazzone's Barber

July 2, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

And the beat goes on…….. Cox has no clue how to manage a bullpen.

Cox has no clue how to bench a veteran.

Cox has no clue how to light a fire under his players @$$e$

The Braves have no chance with Cox as manager.

By Leo Mazzone's Barber

July 2, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this

And the beat goes on……..

Cox has no clue as to how to manage a pitching staff (especially the bullpen)

Cox has no clue how to bench a washed up veteran

Cox has no clue how to light a fire under these lazy millionaires

Cox has no clue, and the Braves have no chance

By Kevin C

July 2, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this

Interesting column in Houston paper, said Oswalt would not request a trade but would listen if Braves, Red Sox or Cardinals came a calling. Would he be worth going after, I would include McCann in a deal and place Salty at catcher, also offer some minor leaguers—Houston has a lot of holes and no depth in the minors. Oswalt would be like aquiring Maddux again. As for Wickman, thank goodness he did not sign a 2 year contract last year.

By Batter Up!

July 2, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this

I can totally see Oswalt leading the Braves. That guy is worth Chipper, Andrew, and Wickman. Send them to Houston and bring on Oswalt.

Oh yeah and throw Bobby in w/ them.

By Drew

July 3, 2007 9:45 AM | Link to this

You know there’s like four fat guys in the bigs and two are with the Braves? Other than a semi-proven track record with Wickman, what makes JS and Bobby want to take overweight professional athletes that sip on flasks in the bullpen come in and work 60-70 games? They expect to be title contenders? I bet Wickman hasn’t seen his own dinghy in 15 years…furthermore I hope Andruw Jones/Scott Boras gets totally screwed over this offseason. If this keeps up, AJ might be with the Braves next season even with a paycut (about $10 mil?) How does he expect to get anything over what he’s earning now by batting .215 25 90, with a growing belly, heavy feet, and a stubborn mind…get over youself Andruw

Here’s something to chew on….

20% of the Braves bullpen accounts for 80% of the bullpen’s total weight

By jeff willis

July 3, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this

i certainly see that renteria was passed over and was having a stellar year. even with chipper out, he still should be on the all star team, maybe his risp is what keeps him out. soriano could have made it as well, come on how the heck does fuentes make it and not soriano. mccann is having an atrocious season. his numbers are down more than andruw’s if you look at them closely. he was hitting over 340 at the break last year. the a.l. is far more superior to the n.l. anyway, so who really cares. the all star game is really irrelevant and has been for many years.

By TOMAHAWKER

July 3, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this

HOW ABOUT A PLATOON FOR THE IDIOT MANAGER?

BOOBY COX:

NEED SOME PEP TO THE OFFENSE? INSTEAD OF SALTY ON FIRST, I’LL GIVE WOODWARD (.200) MENDOZA SOME AT BATS. DUH !

LETS SEE, ESCOBAR HAD FOUR HITS LAST NIGHT. WE’LL GIVE HIM A FEW DAYS OFF TO THINK OVER WHAT HE DID.

MAN I LOVE WILLIE HARRIS. BUT, I TELL YOU SKIP, I SURE DO MISS RYAN LANGERHANS. PAT CORRALES HAS BEEN TELLING ME THAT RYAN HAS BEEN TEARING IT UP IN BATTING PRACTICE. ALWAYS DID LIKE THAT KID. DUH!

TIME FOR ANOTHER DRINK, BOBBY !

By Marty

July 3, 2007 5:22 PM | Link to this

Soriano probably deserved to make the All-Star team as much as any reliever, but he is still a reliever. Renteria and Jones each had superior numbers to all other NL players at their respective positions. Don’t believe me? Check the stats.

Entering play today, Chipper is 2nd in the league in OPS, and 35 points higher than that of Miguel Cabrera, 86 points higher than Aramis Ramirez, and a whopping 132 points higher than David Wright. Chipper has one fewer homer than Wright in 78 fewer at-bats. Miguel Cabrera (.330 BA, 17 HR, and 57 RBI — all tops among NL third basemen) clearly should be the starter, and Chipper clearly should be the backup.

How about Renteria? All he has done is led all NL shortstops in batting average (.326) and OPS (.886), while hitting a respectable 10 homers and 21 doubles, driving in 43, and scoring 53 times — and you’re telling me they couldn’t find a place to put him on the All-Star roster? If there were an All-Star team for the month of May 2007, then J.J. Hardy would surely deserve to make the team. Has everyone failed to notice, however, that after his great May, he hit just .220 in June, with a horrendous .685 OPS and just 3 homers (only 5 extra-base hits in all) and 5 — yes, five — RBI? Give me a break. Renteria got shafted worse than anyone in recent memory.

By Marty

July 3, 2007 5:26 PM | Link to this

For the record, Hardy had fewer extra-base hits than Andruw, and half as many RBI, in June.

By Slider

July 13, 2007 8:34 AM | Link to this

Yes, the AL has the biggest bats and the NL never had enough arms. Rentaria hits, fields, throws and thinks like an All-Star. Go figure.

By Adam Krohn

July 13, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

Here’s my column on Selig’s decision to let the All Star game count for home field advantage in the World Series:

http://sundaypaper.com/CurrentArticles/tabid/98/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/343/071507-SPORTSTALK—Strikeout.aspx

By Ted

July 16, 2007 1:30 AM | Link to this

I havent given up on Bobby yet!