ajcsportstalk

By Barry Woods

June 12, 2008 6:48 PM | Link to this

I told my wife when the Cubs went into the bottom of the 9th down by one that they had the Braves right where they wanted them. Anybody else think this is just Karma paying the Braves back for all of those years everything went right?

By Mitchell

June 12, 2008 6:53 PM | Link to this

Bats, obviously.

Aside from the pitching injuries and Bennet’s terrible start last night, there is no offense whatsoever.

Watching them fail to get a single run time after time you have to wonder, when will it end?

Actually, it’s more like, “when will it begin?”

By Rob

June 12, 2008 6:53 PM | Link to this

Bats.

We loaded the bases and couldnt make contact. This is rediculous. We shouldnt have gone into extra inning if we could play some small ball and manufacture runs.

The bullpen is worked and worked hard. Yes, some arms just cant pitch but not scoring runs when we should is killing us.

By Chipper's The Man

June 12, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this

I think that the offense has been the biggest disappointment, now don’t get me wrong, any time that the Braves have been tied or one run ahead after the sixth inning, it seems as if they are somehow going to give it up. But look at the bullpen, it was one of the best in the NL as of last week, whereas the offense just chokes every time they come up with runners on. I like Frenchy, but it seems like whenever he needs to come up big, he chokes and either strikes out or hits into a double play. The offense has been much worse.

By Stylin

June 12, 2008 6:59 PM | Link to this

Lack of clutch hitting, bullpen woes, Father Time….all of these seeem to fit. And of course the continued blunders of Bobby Cox. As shaky as the bullpen has been, Will Ohman has performed admirably. But, he is ignored by Cox who lets rightie “Blown” Boyer pitch to lefty hitting Jim Edmonds in the ninth. The result…into the left field basket of Wrigley Field….tie game. But, as always, Braves announcers cover for him because he is a “players manager.” Really? Face it….there comes a time to hang it up…it’s that time for Booooby Cox! He is what he is because of great players who won despite his goofs. Come On! We Braves fans (and probabaly some players too) need to see a new “Chief” in the dugout. Pleeeeeaaaaassssseeeee!!!!!!!

By nelson

June 12, 2008 6:59 PM | Link to this

Which is worse: Braves’ bullpen or their bats?

BOBBY COX !!! pendleton and mc dowell!

By NO MORE BOBBY

June 12, 2008 7:05 PM | Link to this

BOTH!! And these people who keep taking up for Bobby Cox are idiots. Who picked the players in spring training? Who keeps on giving the same bullpen losers a chance to pitch just to prove he is right and we are all wrong for our anger over continued use of certain pitchers (Cox hates to be wrong), and who can not fire up his team and will go down with this sinking ship (it sunk a few years ago in my opinion).

So keep taking up for Bobby Cox and keep pretending we have a chance this year. I mean is it so hard to get young players to play with killer instinct and compete with teams like the Cubs and Phillies? Actually its not as the Marlins are for real and play with a swagger we once used to.

Im afraid the longer these young guys play for the end of Bobby Ball they will be so brainwashed that they will be no good to us in 2010. Have to be happy for the Cubs though this year. You think 1995 was a long time ago? How about 100 years ago for Cubs fans!!! 100 years - Bobby Cox was just getting started managing then.

By Booby Cocks

June 12, 2008 7:08 PM | Link to this

I love Bobby. I do. But, come on. Manny Acosta is a headcase right now. Why do we keep pitching him? The guy can’t hold a 4 year old on first base. And he’s essentially throwing BP. Then there’s Kelly Johnson playing in right field — on a slow infield like Wrigley! What is going on? We have far too much talent to be this bad on the road and in one run games. Time for Cox to retire. Atlantans are just too nice when it comes to stuff like this. Look at Woodson — the guy hasn’t done anything and he get a two-year extension. Great work Atlanta.

By Raleigh Dog

June 12, 2008 7:10 PM | Link to this

No heart. No passion. Nothing but losers. Losers. Losers. Write it out 7 more times for this trip. The weekend will be lost and then after playing Sunday night they have to play Monday and then on to Texas. Dump Soriano. Dump Cox, Francoeur, Acosta and Johnson. Three strikeouts with the bases loaded? That’s unacceptable. But look at the three who came up. Who are those guys? They’re nobodies. Nobodies. Braves stink. Stank. Stunk.

By Chipper's The Man

June 12, 2008 7:10 PM | Link to this

I am glad somebody else sees it the way I do. Every time the Braves get the bases loaded, they still won’t get any runs. It doesn’t matter how many outs. It still sticks in my mind last year when the bases where loaded and no outs agains the Mets at Shea and Wager was pitching to Frenchy. Frenchy grounded into a force out at home and then next up Andrew grounds into a double play. Every time something like this happens. Terrible Baseball!

By B. Real Bobby

June 12, 2008 7:17 PM | Link to this

It is time for Bobby to hang it up. Bobby is a player’s manager. Great. That’s swell. And because of his loyalty he continues to trot these same bums out on the mound. Why in the WORLD do you let Boyer face Edmonds??? Why? Any idiot can tell you you’re playing with fire. We have 13 pitchers on this roster, for God’s sake. You can’t find a lefty to face Edmonds??? And why is Manny Acosta allowed to throw anything but BP? And when is Cox going to realize Francouer is struggling and he’s killing us with men on base — and why does he still hit in the 5 hole against leftys??? Why????? He is barely hitting his weight right now. Either platoon him or move him down to 6 or 7 in the lineup. As a loyal Braves fan (and season ticket holder), I deserve better. Atlanta, WE DESERVE BETTER!!!!

By Kev

June 12, 2008 7:19 PM | Link to this

BOTH+ BOBBY COX and all the Coaches!!…This season went down in a flush…they gave up themseleves(expect Chipper and Mac,those two are the one who acutally give a damn about winning!!)

By Joe

June 12, 2008 7:19 PM | Link to this

Why didn’t Texeira score on McCann’s double in the 9th? As soon as that whimp pulled up at third, I told my buddy that we just lost the game.

Tex is clearly dogging it and we need to trade him and start building for next year soon.

We are clearly not Buyer’s at this point, and Tex is our only sellable commodity.

By Bill

June 12, 2008 7:25 PM | Link to this

Lack of clutch hitting is the main reason we are 7 games out. BOBBY has also cost us 8-12 games the past 2 seasons (and probably a wild card last season). Boyer and Acosta are not 2 inning pitchers (look at their stats)…Ray Charles could have seen that. Another great move to bring in Ohman for one batter and hold it at 2-2. No way Boyer should have pitched to the .215 lefty hitting Edmonds. Another smart move to bring in a rookie with the bases loaded. Bobby has had a great run but its time to move upstairs or go to the farm. Somebody on the team please stand up and say something…the worst thing that could happen is to get put in the dog house or traded. Looong time Braves fan.

By Chipper's The Man

June 12, 2008 7:28 PM | Link to this

Joe I was just thinking the same thing. Why don’t we trade Tex and maybe see what we can get back from a team who is looking for an “impact” bat if that is what you can call it. Last season it was a great trade for the Braves, but this year he has been horrible. I feel like we all just got kicked in the nuts with this trade right now. I can not believe that teams are intentially walking Chipper, who is the man, to pitch to Tex. Shoot me…please!

By bravesarestillmyteam

June 12, 2008 7:31 PM | Link to this

You know we can write bad stuff how bad the Braves are, and how terrible some of the moves Bobby Cox has made this year, but they don’t care what the fans think. That is what’s sad about being a Braves fan is they don’t care about the fans are trying to do something to light a fire under this team.

By nelson

June 12, 2008 7:31 PM | Link to this

bye bye cox !! Terrible Baseball!

By raul

June 12, 2008 7:37 PM | Link to this

“Acostaed” again…how long Bobby…how Long?

By NO MORE BOBBY

June 12, 2008 7:47 PM | Link to this

ONE MORE THING FOR THE BOBBY COX LOVERS……

The BRAVES fell to 7-24 on the road this season and have lost their last 21 one-run games on the road since August, matching the longest such streak in major league history.

WHAT MORE DO YOU PEOPLE NEED TO SEE THAT ITS TIME HE HANGS IT UP. IM AFRAID THE LONGER HE STAYS AROUND THE MORE DAMAGE ITS GOING TO DO TO HIS NAME AND ALL THE GREAT YEARS HE DID GIVE ATLANTA.

WALK AWAY BOBBY!!!!!

By nelson

June 12, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this

please fans : send a email to liberty media

http://www.libertymedia.com/contact/default.htm

By GSU Eagle

June 12, 2008 8:02 PM | Link to this

WHY is MANNY ACOSTA still in The Show. Send him back to the minors, in a hurry. It is incredible to think that Bobby still puts him out there. It makes me sick!!!

By Tomy Fournier

June 12, 2008 8:02 PM | Link to this

And how many time(including last year)I was saing that Mr. Cox have to be out of here???? How many time….my people???? And THE ANSWER WAS ….one more year contrac TO MR.COX….WAO….THAT WAS THE PRICE TO THE ATLANTA’S FAN….YEAAAA>>>>

By B. Parcells

June 12, 2008 8:06 PM | Link to this

The Braves are a mediocre ballclub. That is a FACT, despite DOB’s constant attempts to put a positive spin on a season that is spiraling out of control.

Injuries, bad pitching, sub-par defense, no speed, non-existent clutch hitting, poor fundamentals, questionable managerial decisions … did I leave anything out?

Regardless, the 2008 Braves have too many flaws for one or two (or three) trades to address. They are doomed to third place, at best, in the NL East.

With that in mind, the powers-that-be should start looking to 2009 (and beyond).

Even though he’s not having a great season, Tex should get plenty of attention from other teams as the trade deadline approaches.

In addition, teams are always looking for arms that can chew up a few innings down the stretch, so the Braves should listen to offers for any healthy pitcher on the roster (except for Hudson and JJ, of course).

With a little luck, the Braves may be able to rebuild in time for Chipper’s swan song in 2011.

By JEB

June 12, 2008 8:15 PM | Link to this

Overall it’s the offence!

The bullpen has cost us a few games. Starting pitching has cost a few games.

But, the offence has cost us more games!! Lack of clutch hitting! Doing the little things to get a runner over or home!

The demise of Frechy has been HUGE this season to the Braves! How many runners has he left in scoring positon, or with bases loaded this season. He himself has cost us more games than anyone else!!

By nelson

June 12, 2008 8:20 PM | Link to this

please fans : send a email to liberty media

http://www.libertymedia.com/contact/default.htm

By Malcolm Burt

June 12, 2008 8:21 PM | Link to this

This is the main reason why I was so disappointed that the Braves resigned Bobby Cox to a deal for next year!! I love what Bobby has done for this organization and words can’t describe what he has done but come on now!! Like some of you have already stated leaving Blaine Boyer in for a 2 inning save? Putting Manny Acosta in who has costed us like all of our loses this past week and a half? Are you freaking kidding me Bobby!! Please for the love of the Braves please hang up your spikes after this season PLEASE!!! Now to answer the question it is the offense! How many times have we loaded up the bases and haven’t scored anything this past week? Exactly too many times. And how many times have we left a man on 3rd with less that 2 outs? Exactly too many!! So a combination of a lack of clutch hitting and Bobby Cox being ignorant to the fact that you can’t use Manny and Blaine every freaking night, is what has led to this 7 game skid. This is starting to remind me of 2006 when we lost 10 straight games I believe. Well guess what looks like we are well on our way to pulling off that stunt!

Good Night and Good Luck!

By jim

June 12, 2008 8:21 PM | Link to this

This team is awful and a disgrace! When you only score one or two runs a game you can’t expect to win many games. Frankly, I think this team has quit for the year. It is time to not only change some players, but coaching staff also beginning with Cox and Pendleton. This team has no fire or heart to win.

By Keepin it real

June 12, 2008 8:24 PM | Link to this

Bullpen or Bats?

I’d say it’s the guys holding the bats…we got to have more focus at the plate and show more knowledge towards the games. The first pitch swinging is killing us, along with a few bad calls here and there, but at the plate especially away from Turner Field we have to focus. There’s no way the bases should have been left loaded in the 8th today after nobody was out. We have to get at least one run in instead of our guys swinging for the fences…it just doesn’t work that way.

As far as the bullpen goes I’d say that Bobby has mismanaged the Bullpen for a couple of years now. Its only a matter of time before we start hearing about Manny and Boyer having arm problems like Moylan, Soriano. We have 13 pitchers up here right now yet Bobby continues to call on the same two guys night in, night out. I’m sure he knows something that we don’t, but everybody knows that guys get tired after being used as much as they have…I can’t blame the bullpen because Bennett, Boyer, and Manny have been there all season with plenty of appearances. Those guys are gassed right now. Bobby’s got to get his head into the game.

By Raleigh Dog

June 12, 2008 8:24 PM | Link to this

Cox is a “player’s manager.” How about a Fan’s manager? How about somebody who wants to win and is willing to light a fire or bench somebody? How about caring? How about kicking some butt? No. He loves his boys. And they love him. They were afraid of Leo. Bring back Leo.

By gary

June 12, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this

As long as Bobby Cox waits for that great THREE RUN HOMER the Braves will suffer. Unlike the truely greaat managers in sports, Cox can not adjust his game plan. Down by one? “We need a three run homer”. It never changes. Notice that post season record…. 1 WS in 15 trips. Yes, given a group of very good players he does great in the long season against weaker teams. But against teams of ability we’re seeing that he’s just an odinary manager. It was those teams that made Cox “great”, not Cox who made them great.

By nelson

June 12, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this

love and love and love and love , cox love his boys ? who cares , about love!! 7 game back 7 !!

The BRAVES fell to 7-24 on the road this season and have lost their last 21 one-run games on the road since August, matching the longest such streak in major league history.

who cares about love !!!!!! fire cox !

By bobby

June 12, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this

The Braves couldn’t make the playoffs if they were playing themselves if Bobby Cox was managing.

By rob

June 12, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this

If I were Tim Hudson, I would punch Boyer then Bobby in the nose, then go on the DL until Gonzalez comes back.

By chopperhobby

June 12, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this

Am I wrong but did Bobby pitch Boyer against a left handed batter and Ohman against a right handed batter. Did that really happen?

By Tim

June 12, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this

Why no criticism of McDowell? has the pitchung staff done anything since he has been here, except spend time on the DL?

By ben

June 12, 2008 9:15 PM | Link to this

Hey Cox - tell ole Tex when you have runners on 1st and 3rd with two outs and two strikes - you cannot hit the 3rd strike unless you swing the bat. 0-6

By John J.

June 12, 2008 9:20 PM | Link to this

The last time I looked, Bobby Cox did not come up to bat in the 8th inning. The PLAYERS are not doing their job now but there are still 3 and a half months worth of baseball. I may be crazy, but I think the Braves will still have a winning road trip. But then again, I am a FAN through thick (14 years in a row) and thin (the 70’s and 80’s)

By tbo

June 12, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this

All of this talk of getting rid of Cox is not doing any good. No one that matters in the Braves organization cares. That’s the only reason that he could be allowed to stay on after making all of the stupid player and bullpen moves over the last several years. This is so ridiculous it is too funny. What an idiot!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By JD

June 12, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this

This team lacks leadership.None of the players are playing with any emotion.This team is as flat as yesterdays pancakes.The signs of losing are as plain as day no pitching no hiting and lackluster play such as standing at the plate with 2 strikes an just stand there an take strike 3.Look out last place here we come.7 games back and falling fast.If you can win at home you sure as hell can win on the road. this is baseball not foot ball—gese. time to clean house a new broom sweeps clean.

By JD

June 12, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this

This team lacks leadership.None of the players are playing with any emotion.This team is as flat as yesterdays pancakes.The signs of losing are as plain as day no pitching no hiting and lackluster play such as standing at the plate with 2 strikes an just stand there an take strike 3.Look out last place here we come.7 games back and falling fast.If you can win at home you sure as hell can win on the road. this is baseball not foot ball—gese. time to clean house a new broom sweeps clean.

By Kashi

June 12, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this

It is how you manage the game. When guys are cold and not hitting shake the line up. Our bull pen is pathetic. Of course any team will win if you score many runs. Now someone is going to say we have the best NL ERA before Philly came to the town. Kiss my assssss…thats because our starting pitchers haven’t gone more then 6 innings and rookie rellivers can’t pitch in a pressure environment (1 run games). Have anyone checked DEVINE and TAYLER YATES’ stats lately? Begining of Frank Wren’s era means END of Braves era..Plain and Simple…PERIOD.

By Tom Bent

June 12, 2008 10:45 PM | Link to this

Pitching comes first. I would try replacing Acousta, Bennett and Boher and then have team batting practice. These pitchers have lost a lot of close games. Go Braves.

By ryan

June 12, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this

we would wins some games if we could a darn sf once anouther o for 3 today norton sucks blanco cant hit. why the hell didnt we give anderson a chance.dont see b jones hitting

By Lou Vales

June 12, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this

They Are The Atlanta Braves!!! When are you Phi Beta Kappas going to get it. They have won 1!!!!!!World Series since 1966——43 Years!!!!!! The Florida Marlins have won 2 World Series since 1997, AND with a payroll of 19 Million they have a better chance of winning World Series #3 while The Futile Braves of Soriano, Gonzalez, Hampton go on doing what they do best—Choking, Gaging and and acting like the Braves!!!

John,Give it up, move on, get a life and quit behaving like a Bret Favre clone—You are done!!! Finito!1 terminado!!!! Kaput!! Know you can’t work on Strand Theory with Steven hawking, BUT surely you can do more with your life than throw a heater and a hellacious breaking pitch. Can’t You????

By PMC

June 12, 2008 11:15 PM | Link to this

Why the heck would they send down Anderson when Blanco has proven time and time again he can’t hit a lick??

What is the freaking deal

Put Boyer on Waivers… he’s NOT going to get picked up. Move Acosta down. Geez. Obviously they are worn out or just don’t have it.

It’s like watching John Starks… guys, eventually you aren’t going to shoot your way out of it. The Major Leagues are that for a reason… It’s not worth the Ticket price to watch these guys learn how to play. Two or Three games in the last week have been completely inexcuseable.

On a positive note, nice to see Francour have a decent day.

Once again, 3rd or 4th year in a row… greasefire bullpen 2 guys on the team that hit consistantly and a bunch of 250 guys that Leave the world on base.

By hess

June 12, 2008 11:23 PM | Link to this

Think about this move Mac to first,his bat is good enough to play thair and if he keeps catching his bat will fail,bring up clint samons,LOOSE Miller,Traid TEX and Francour for CC Sabatha, and Fire Bobby and Terry after all he is the hitting coach and bring back Leo he is with out a job

By Aaalaaan

June 12, 2008 11:50 PM | Link to this

Old Uniforms, Players and Manager equals same old story, Lose, Lose, Lose and Lose some more. Acosta was LUCKY enough to pitch one good inning, a miracle. Then Bobby left him in there to load the bases the next inning and THEN brings in the ROOKIE with bases loaded and no outs. Will he NEVER learn. It is clear to me that Bobby is now mentally deficient. He can’t remember that Acosta has screwed up the last seven straight games. Time for Bobby to go to the farm and STAY there.

By Robin

June 13, 2008 12:57 AM | Link to this

I’ll say it’s the bats. With a clutch hit here or there and some runs, we could allow our starter to go a little deeper, thus taking some pressure off the pen.

Hitting really is contagious and does wonders for a team’s confidence, not to mention the trickle-down effect to the pitching staff. Helps the “D” too. They’re not out there on their heels making bone-head plays. Instead, they can’t wait to get back on offense. A win-win.

By Curse of Len Barker

June 13, 2008 1:15 AM | Link to this

Most of the good points have already been taken, i.e. Acosta and Boyer. I’ll try to tackle some others.

Grab some popcorn. This could take some time.

Buddy Carlyle did well starting last year. He’s been virtually ignored this year.

Ruben Gotay is barely getting any at-bats. I remember him starting once. You can’t hit if you aren’t regularly doing it competitively.

Jeff Francouer has never had to earn his way after his promotion from Mississippi and his hot start. Bench him or send him down to send a message that he needs to work on his game.

Kelly Johnson is an outfielder. He screws up too often to justify his spot at second base. He’s a better hitter than Francouer. Move Infante to the infield, sit Frenchy, and put Johnson in right. At this point, I’d even make a minor league offer to Marcus Giles and if he could get his bat going again, send Frenchy down and bring him up to play second.

Josh Anderson was doing a perfectly fine job, wasn’t he?

Everybody knows that Cox is going to try to steal or squeeze after a pitchout, depending on situation.

Either make the boys learn how to bunt or don’t do it at all. Frenchy tried to a couple of games ago. It was pointed out that he had never done so in his entire professional playing career.

Get some speed! Otis Nixon stole 72 bases in 1991. I don’t think the last four Braves squads have a combined total of 72.

Tell Soriano to pitch or go on the DL. His little waiting game isn’t doing anybody a bit of good.

Bring up Brad Komminsk. He should be about ready by now.

By perry

June 13, 2008 6:44 AM | Link to this

It is time to realize that the bench players pressed into full time duty can’t cut it. A move is necessary. How about telling Hampton to either pitch or retire, loosen up that salary and get some sound bats and a closer. And Bobby, stop using Boyer and Acosta. Even an A pitcher is better than those two.

By Charlie

June 13, 2008 6:52 AM | Link to this

It’s not one or the other. It’s both, although Thursday is one to hang on the Braves minor league caliber batting order. Tex is a joke! 0 for 11 in the series, and struck out looking on a 3-2 pitch, runners in scoring position. This guy is a big money, clutch cleanup hitter. NOT EVEN CLOSE. 3 K’s with none out and the bases loaded in the 8th…2 looking. What a bunch of clowns. Bobby’s management of the bullpen is a farce. Put Soriano on the DL. Boyer and Manny I-Cost-Ya another game are 1 inning guys at best. Boyer couldn’t close a car window, and Manny is a head case. The defense is shaky. Kelly at second is a liability. Yunel cost us a run when he blew an easy DP yesterday. McCann can’t or won’t move behind the plate, and has a lousy arm. Our outfield has 1 actual outfielder. None of them can hit. Worse producing trio in the bigs. We have 1 starter that worth anything (Hudson), and 1 hitter (Chipper). So..who’s to blame? Wren, Bobby, and almost all of the players. Minor League baseball at Major League prices.

Thie is the 3rd year in a row the Clowns from at Atlanta have collapsed before mid-June. They are done. Trade Tex as soon as possible. It was a poor trade from the start. We gave too much. We got very little. With Tex being a Bora$ boy demanding big dollars(in spite of being a bust ballplayer) few teams will be willing to take on his salary, outside of the NY teams.

It’s June 13th. The Braves are done. Time to tune in to REAL major League baseball. Most teams do put a major league product on the field. The same can’t be said for Atlanta.

By Dana

June 13, 2008 7:08 AM | Link to this

The pitchers are hurt, but Tex and Frenchy are swining at fences and not being patient and Johnson is getting up there in errors. I really feel that this team was put together wrong.

Over 40 pitchers bound together like they are gold. Their only being paid gold, Glavine should have retired. Now look, no pitching AGAIN. The owners need to understand that in order to win a team needs good pitching and a good lineup. Using utility players like we have were not going to win.

Oh yea it would be nice to pay a pen arm 2 million. That way we would have a pen. Out pens have stunk it up for a long time now. You get what you pay for. Boyer and Acosta are dogs and not major league material. What Bobby did to Ridgeway was way wrong. Rookie thrown into a bases loaded nobody out again situation. Way to many times thats how Acosta leaves the field. He needs to leave perminately. I for one am getting fed up with this no money, low player crap. You cant win like that.

By D.Ellis

June 13, 2008 7:13 AM | Link to this

How stupid is Peter Gammons?

He actually picked this club to go to the World Series.

By TNjeff

June 13, 2008 8:19 AM | Link to this

What is the most frustrating?

An idiot manager that consistently wait to pull a likewise consistently ineffective relief pitcher until AFTER the game is lost.

By Nick24

June 13, 2008 8:45 AM | Link to this

I would say and another. Coach is worse. How many times does Bobby Cox have to make the same stupid decisions to cost the Braves a win. Yesterday again he made a terrible decision leaving Boyer in for a 2nd inning of work. Mistake 2 in the 9th was leaving him out to face Edmonds with 2 capable left-handed pitchers in the bullpen. This turned into another blown lead from Boyer and a chance for a win from Tim Hudson who was outstanding. Lucky for us we survived the 10th inning when he brought in Acosta who has given up almost 15 runs in his past 4 appearences. What does Bobby Cox do in the 11th. Well a stupid move again. Why not let Acosta stay in for a 2nd inning so he can once again lose it for the Braves. I’m tired of the stupid decision that Cox is making. He has cost us time and time again with his dumb moves. I know, I know. The Braves had countless times to blow the game open and choked. I realize that, but the past weeks really the whole season Cox’s moves in the games regarding pitching have been ridiculous. He has done a good job while in Atlanta, but the time has come to get him out of town. He should have learned by now that Boyer and Acosta are not enough to count on in crunch time. What else do they need to do to prove this to him. I guess many more loses. It’s like he is not caring if they win or lose. Someone needs to light a fire in everyone’s attitude on that team or it’s going to be a very long and I mean a very long season for us Braves fans. It’s disheartening to watch this time and time again. Feel free to comment on what I have said. I would like to see if anyone feels the same.

By Turn2

June 13, 2008 9:14 AM | Link to this

Typically I’m a pretty big supporter of BC, like many of you here, but I was beside myself mad that he put that rookie in to pitch in that situation (after of course allowing Blaine and Manny to do what we’ve grown accustomed to seeing them do). I can’t imagine what his head is like today or what it’ll be like the next time he gets the chance to pitch. Who can forget what became of Joey Devine after his first outing? I just think it was a bad call.

By Dan59

June 13, 2008 9:27 AM | Link to this

Definitely the bats, I can not believe the caliber of players the Braves have but have one player over .400 and one over .300 is just not going to cut it. And if a batter hits better in a different spot in the lineup put him there. Don’t continue to leave him where he is not hitting. Wake up Bobby!! You have to stop napping in the dugout.

By braves70

June 13, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this

Serious question here as I do not know the answer. If you know someone who is showing signs of senility can you appeal to some agency to check out the person? If so, Braves fans should ask for someone to step in and analyze Bobby Cox. I am afraid that he really has gone over the edge.

By genec

June 13, 2008 10:05 AM | Link to this

I think the bullpin is as good as most teams in the league. The most alarming thing about the braves is the clutch hitting stinks. They have good hitters that try to do to much when they get runners on base. They can’t seem to get a fly ball when the bases are loaded and no one out. Maybe a squeeze play would help but that failed in the last home stand. Now is when good couching and managing comes into play. It is easy to manage and couch when everything is going your way but now it is time for the rubber to meet the road.

By STRETCH

June 13, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this

ITS REALLY FUNNY HOW ON ESPN’S BASEBALL TONIGHT WHILE WATCHING THE HIGHLIGHTS, ONE OF THE GUYS SAID “GOTTA SWING THE BATS”.

EVERYBODY THAT WATCHED THAT GAME YESTERDAY NOWS THAT BUT THIS TEAM. AND TO LIBERTY MEDIA…WHERES THE MONEY YOU SAID YOU WOULD SPEND?!!!

By varoadrunner

June 13, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this

There’s a lot of respect for Bobby Cox in Baseball circles. Unfortunately, he is through! He is managing like he has no clue. He has a team, that if managed effectively, could win. Maybe not the division or the series, but win some 1-run games. Smoltz and Glavine should retire. Glavine because he no longer “has it”. Smoltz, on the other hand sounds like his arm might need to retire. He can still get people out, but not without pain, so give him a break.

Soriano now is a different matter all-together. He is afraid of going out there. TRADE HIM!

Frenchy - TRADE HIM! He is too hard headed!

TEX - Doing just ok and I expect him to turn it on soon. TRADE HIM!

In other words - BUILD FOR THE FUTURE (and the future is when COX retires. Until then, we will not win.)

He makes (or doesn’t make decisions anymore) Not sure why, but it’s fact….all you have to do is WATCH!

By Jordan

June 13, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this

Is there any chance the Braves could trade for Sabathia? Let me make my case: Hate to say it, but there is no need for the Braves to re-sign Smoltz. I hope for everyone’s sake he is done. That is $14 million shedded in payroll for next season right there. Wish that it would’ve worked out with Hampton, but we get to drop his $15 million in payroll next season. Another solid Brave that I know we all hate to see slashed is Glavine, but that would free up $7 million in payroll next season. It has also been said by some that Chipper will be done after 2009, and that would be $15 million in payroll slashed after 2009. My point is, that the Braves have some money to spend, and we have some good young prospects to deal such as Lillebridge and Schaeffer. Lillebridge is blocked by Escobar. Schaeffer is prob something we wouldn’t want to give up, but it would definitely be worth it if we could lock up Sabathia for a 6 yr $19 million contract. We already have McCann locked up to something like a 6 yr $24 million deal. I wouldn’t worry about signing Francoeur. That jerk already turned down a 4 yr $24 million deal, and he’s not worth anymore than that. All this to say that I hope the Braves organization will show the fans that they really want to win. We are going to have some money to spend, and I think we might have enough to lock up Teixera and Sabathia. Maybe, but the ownership should really look at. The risk is worth taking. Our rotation for 2009 would be 1.Sabathia, 2.Hudson, 3.Jurrjens, 4.Reyes, 5. Campillo. And we must have Teixera. Francoeur is never going to be the plaeyer that we all though he would. If ends up hitting in the 3 spot for the rest of his career with Braves, I might put a gun to my head. This is feasible, and I know it is a long shot, but if moves like this aren’t made, the great Braves tradition we know will be lost. We will all know that we are just another version of the Minnesota Twins or Oakland A’s. Just trying to be competitive year in and year out. I’m hoping for the best!

By Skeezix

June 13, 2008 10:23 AM | Link to this

It is definitely the bats. Given all the injuries, the pitchers have performed fairly well (except for the bullpen recently). Other than Chipper and Brian, the bats are all too impatient at the plate and for the most part, get themselves out by swinging at sucker pitches. Have you ever seen so mant 0-2 counts in your life? Tex as a clean up hitter has been a bust as far as I’m concerned-he chokes in critical situations with men in scoring position. He should be batting 6th or 7th. At least Frenchy delivers some of the time, so I’d bat him in front of Tex. Time for a major shake up. Also, time for some guys to be traded or reacquainted with AAA and AA ball. I’d rather watch developing and hustling young new players than this bunch of sorry losers.

By santa3247

June 13, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this

Hi, I’m Seong-Ho,Yoon living in Jinhae city southkorea now and I couldn’t write here for three weeks around.

Fake santa visited Atlanta? together with full help from Babylon’s friends? ^*^

Don’t believe any institute using machine of resonance schumann.^*^

Because you did contract with slave of Babylon, you have no method to solve this problem.

6streak wins?^^ otherteams attacked by Babylon’s threat, why? for the purpose of making reason for resign with their Doll Cox. ^^

Doll using player like Village Baseball now.^*^

1B can play freely at LF. He doing nice defense but Matt Diaz would catch the ball at normall one.

MLB was village-ball?^*^

Head-up guy playing continuously at CF.^^ His throwing at 2B,3B,HM is always away from base.^^

Cowerd Coach cant’teach plaer not using resonance schumann.^*^

M.Acosta continuously blowing games.^*^

Brandon Jones in Major League why?^*^

What about Phillip Stockman? his fastball was faster than JeffBennet but in speed gun, more slowly.

The good’s pitched ball have the great movement(spins). This is law of nature. ^*^

Now babylonians laughing at USA sitting in underground bases.^*^Saying like this “USA is ours, the beauty of USA is Babylonian’s food, USA is over”

“FuXX Santa deceived our Babylon cursing Obama who was freemason and quit Our religion. Thamit, we helped Obama, ShXXX”

“Ready for killing Obama before his entering white house, he would live in White House till the end of time. ShXXX”

“What the fuXX!! Santa sent Obama The bright morning star!! Be careful about attacking Obama from now on!!”

May the force of Messiah be with you

P.S: Oil Price Babylon made for the purpose of protecting Neutron Anthena on top of the Seoul Tower.

By Luke

June 13, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this

Joran, I agree with most of what you’re saying except, Campillo is not a major league starter, he is a spot starter and a long reliever, he should not be in the Braves long term plans. Hudson, Jurrjens, Reyes are guys that we can consider (last 2) POTENTIAL major league top line starters. We need to add an arm in free agency or via a trade and develop one more young pitcher possibly Morton for next season.

By steve

June 13, 2008 11:01 AM | Link to this

The braves have 3 players starting in the outfield that are not good major league hitters and until they go out and get a left and center fielder that can hit we are not going to score a lot of runs; francoeur is a huge dissappointment as he has turned into a poor defensive player and rarely hits the ball hard; johnson is a poor 2nd baseman and our backup catcher has got to be the worst hitter in the league; why did we not keep pena as our backup as he was a good hitter ; I know we have injury problems but management has to do something now unless they have already given up on this season, turner field will have a lot of empty seats if they choose to do nothing.

By Godfrey Simmons

June 13, 2008 11:14 AM | Link to this

They need some bats and pitching. They need get some people in here.

By lvp

June 13, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this

Bullpen or Bats?? Both equally suck

By kerrell goolsby

June 13, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this

It’s pretty much 50-50. The offense is not getting the job done in key situations (14 LOB yesterday), which is frustrating to watch. Getting Kotsay and Diaz back as well as keeping LRJ (Chipper) healthy are the top priority. As for Infante, PLEASE, IN THE NAME OF ALL THINGS DECENT AND HOLY, SWING THE BAT! Protect the plate with 2 strikes and 2 outs!

The bullpen… UGH! Let’s get Soriano checked out until we know what the hell is wrong with him. Boyer has been inconsistant and that may earn him a trip back to Richmond. Acosta tends to self destruct at times, which is what we DON’T need if we’re going back to postseason. Ohman and Stockman have done well. Bennett has not impressed me at all and if he doesn’t get his act together, he might be trade bait.

Our starting pitching’s fine, we just need to get Glavine healthy and give Hudson and Campillo some run support.

By varoadrunner

June 13, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this

Where the hell are Gonzalez and Hampton? We heard that Hampton and Gonzo would return in May. Are their pinkies hurting too?

By Always a Braves Fan

June 13, 2008 12:20 PM | Link to this

Bats take top prize on this one… bullpen is just overused and tired -

LOB is the key to most of the Braves losses…

By Cincy Braves Fan

June 13, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this

The Braves have no bench and no bullpen. It’s frustrating to watch Bobby send up guys like Infante, Gotay, Blanco and Norton to pinch-hit. Would any pitcher be scared of these guys? And what did they do with bases loaded yesterday, K… K… K.

The bullpen is the same thing. No one that anyone has heard of or needs to fear facing. Has anyone ever looked at Jeff Ridgway’s career stats? In 2007, he pitched 0.1 inning with the Rays and gave up 7 hits and 7 runs. And we put him up with bases loaded in the 11th? And then he proceeds to hit the batter with the first pitch. Time to rethink whether the Braves need him on the roster, and it’s time for the GM to start dialing for help.