ajcsportstalk

By Hitnskins

December 16, 2008 8:27 AM | Link to this

I hope it’s true….we’d finally have our LEAD OFF HITTER BACK!!!

Welcome home FOOKIE!!!!

By Ron

December 16, 2008 8:28 AM | Link to this

I hope this is because we have a plan to get Peavy in place. Why bring him back if we have Yunel? Let’s see what happens today.

By Joe The Stumbler

December 16, 2008 8:29 AM | Link to this

I do not mind furcal returning, but we need to hang on to escobar. He is the best all around player we have besides chipper. I would like to see Escobar eventualy move to third. What do you guys think?

By BO

December 16, 2008 8:29 AM | Link to this

I could see FURCAL in left field to protect his back, maybe even center.

By edward

December 16, 2008 8:30 AM | Link to this

Maybe Wren does have a plan to bring us out of the 1980s!!

By Mark Acres

December 16, 2008 8:30 AM | Link to this

Shocking, I guess Peavy or Ankiel is back on, unless we’re moving KJ to LF, which wouldn’t be the end of the world if they bring in another big SP…

By beki

December 16, 2008 8:31 AM | Link to this

I wouldn’t mind if he came back; however, would the Braves think of moving Escobar to second and trading Johnson- if they got Furcal? Endless possibilities, endless. And I’m first.

By Shaun

December 16, 2008 8:31 AM | Link to this

Good, Braves get leadoff hitter, plus great shortstop. Don’t want to lose Yunel, but this will give us a chance to get that ace in Peavy, or trade him or Johnson for another pitcher of power in the outfield. If the Braves acutally do sign him.

By ssiscribe

December 16, 2008 8:32 AM | Link to this

Good move to bring Furcal back as it gives the Braves a true leadoff hitter with speed who plays great defense, and also gives the Braves depth from which to trade from up the middle.

Now the real question is what is the next shoe to drop? Kelly Johnson as part of a package to the Royals for Zack Greinke? Yunel Escobar as part of a package to the Padres for Jake Peavy. Perhaps one to Houston for Roy Oswalt?

Gonna be interesting, to say the least. We all know the Braves have to get a front-line starter to put at the top with Jurrjens, and now with Furcal apparently in the fold at either short or second, the Braves have the depth to be active on the trade front.

Still need a power stick for left field to put in the middle of the lineup, but a stud starter remains first and foremost the top priority.

—30—

By ATLalltheway

December 16, 2008 8:33 AM | Link to this

YEA BABAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! sweet move wren

By Willy

December 16, 2008 8:34 AM | Link to this

Bring him back. Put KJ on the trade block, sweeten the deal with a decent minor league prospect, and get a bona fide hurler. Pick up a 30-homer, 100-RBI outfielder, and we may be in business. This organization needs to step up and show the fans that they want to put a competitive club on the field. See the other sports franchises in this town with success: Falcons, Hawks. Young talent, good mix of vets, and a willingness to make shrewd trades and develop young talent.

By Rufio

December 16, 2008 8:35 AM | Link to this

I think its a bold move. One that I like. Obviously Wren has something else in the works, which is the exciting part of this news. But this is no way is a sign that KJ is moving to left field. Not an option.

By Ross

December 16, 2008 8:35 AM | Link to this

This is great. Johnson to the outfield or make a move for Peavy.

By Yunel Escobar

December 16, 2008 8:36 AM | Link to this

Terrific. Well, it’s been nice knowing you guys…

By memphisbraves

December 16, 2008 8:36 AM | Link to this

welcome back RAFFY we need you. then we need to move ESCOBAR to PADRES for PEAVY. we need him very bad.YUNEL is great but we need the pitching to compete next year.

By Mike

December 16, 2008 8:36 AM | Link to this

Good move but I hope another move or two follows. We don’t need tow shortstops, we need two pitchers.

By will

December 16, 2008 8:37 AM | Link to this

DO NOT DEAL YUNEL!!!! I see no need in Furcal other than maybe a centerfielder.

By bulldawgcrazy

December 16, 2008 8:38 AM | Link to this

goodbye yunel hello peavy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By country boy

December 16, 2008 8:38 AM | Link to this

Yuck. I hope this deal isn’t setting up that disatrious trade of Yunel for Peavy. Fact is that if the Braves had signed C. C. Sabathia they still would not be .500 this coming season. Very poor right side in the infield, worst OF in the majors, and star player is only good for playing about 100 games due to many trips to injured list. We need to keep our good young players for a change. This team is more than just a player or two away. This team is more than just a year or two away.

By Luke

December 16, 2008 8:38 AM | Link to this

I think this may solve our Left Field void as well, we can move Kelly Johnson back to LF, have Escobar and Furcal up the middle. Unless this deal opens the door for a major pitching deal (PEavy)? Either way I think this would improve the Braves

By AJ

December 16, 2008 8:39 AM | Link to this

I’m all for it. If we do bring Furcal back I HOPE that means we are packaging Yunel to San Diego for Peavy.

We wouldnt just go get another SS on a whim when we have one. Would we??

By Jeff321

December 16, 2008 8:40 AM | Link to this

Bad news! What is a gimpy Furcal going to do that Escobar can’t? Oh right. Suck up a large chuck of the payroll and spend most of his time on the DL.

Typical Atlanta acquisition if I ever saw one!

By Ben

December 16, 2008 8:40 AM | Link to this

I have read that Furcal might play 2nd. I would rather keep Escobar over KJ, but I am sure Escobar has a higher trade value which we could use for a starting pitcher.

By K-DAWG

December 16, 2008 8:40 AM | Link to this

Could be a good move if you move yunel to second and trade johnson, would be a nice 1-2 punch at the top of the batting order.

By Why Furcal?

December 16, 2008 8:42 AM | Link to this

It’s good to see he might be returning, but I thought starting pitching was the No. 1 priority?

By Great (sarcasm)

December 16, 2008 8:44 AM | Link to this

Apparently Wren likes to live in the past by signing old Braves favorites (i.e. Glavine last year)…I just don’t see the logic in signing a shortstop (who spent a good amount of time last year on the DL) when we have Yunel, who will be an all-star…Mr. Wren, time to look forward and stop looking back…

By Serge

December 16, 2008 8:47 AM | Link to this

Cant wait till the utterly overrated Escobar is gone now. Furcal is a much better player. It also means we will get another pitcher soon

Im hoping for Jake Peavy.

By Billy

December 16, 2008 8:48 AM | Link to this

The Braves have one of the BEST young shortstops in baseball in Escobar and want to deal him? It makes no sense!! NO, I DON’T WANT FURCAL. The Braves insist on bringing back OLD PLAYERS from the past that just sit on the diabled list all year. I’m surprised that they aren’t trying to bring Ron Gant or David Justice out of retirement. This organization needs a big change starting at the top!

By Mike A.

December 16, 2008 8:48 AM | Link to this

The braves have always been known not to show all of their cards. I wouldn’t be surprised if something is in the works for Peavy. I still think he will be in spring training with the braves. Unfortunately I think Escobar with be the centerpiece of such a deal.

By TBraveFan

December 16, 2008 8:50 AM | Link to this

Well butter my butt and call me a biscuit — Welcome home Raffy!

Hopefully this is just the first domino to fall in a series that means we are picking up another pitcher - sending Yunel far away in exchange!

By JR

December 16, 2008 8:50 AM | Link to this

We have missed a lead off hitter since he left. So he will definitely be a welcome addition. Wren must have a move up his sleeve. I hope he keeps Escobar, but to get that top level pitcher he would have to go.

The two probable scenarios: Yunel is traded for either Greinke,Peavy (but I doubt it), or some other pitcher.

KJ is traded for an OF, maybe Ankiel McLouth, or someone we haven’t heard about yet.

By Peter

December 16, 2008 8:50 AM | Link to this

Furcal in the line up is great, on the DL another waste of money………..

Escobar is the future, and if the Braves throw away the future for the Now, we will know it is all about Bobby Cox getting his final chance at a title.

Escobar or Furcal can play second base………Kelly back in the out field I guess.

We still need a power hitting outfielder, a true center fielder, and starting pitching………But if the Braves can keep both Furcal and Escobar, enhance the starters somehow, and get power for the out field…….. that will be unbelievable.

By JGzee

December 16, 2008 8:51 AM | Link to this

That is great news we are getting furcal back. He was a catalyst at the top of our lineup before. Ever since he left the top of the braves order has been a weakness. I recall we have not made the playoffs since he left either. If he stays healthy and we make a trade for a top of the rotation starter and aquire a power outfield bat then we should be in pretty decent shape. Frank Wren had no choice but to finally make a splash.

By JJMac

December 16, 2008 8:53 AM | Link to this

All the nay-sayers to this signing are being utterly foolish. There is NO WAY this is a bad signing. He’s lightening on the basepaths. He can play middle infield. And he gives us more options for trades if we need them. Plus, as a former crowd favorite, he’ll put additional butts in the seats. Good lord, people, suck it up.

Welcome home, Raffy.

By Jim

December 16, 2008 8:53 AM | Link to this

I think this would be a great move for the Braves. One of the biggest weaknesses with the team in recent years has been lack of a leadoff hitter and Furcal is great at that. I would like to see the Braves keep Johnson and Escobar though. The lineup could be really good with all three of those players included in it somehow. Escobar looks like he could play any position and be a great player. I hope this works out.

By Bo

December 16, 2008 8:53 AM | Link to this

another Hampton but on the infield. Why does the Braves always let someone leave and then a few years later bring them back? Like marrying your X over again.

By DannyFish

December 16, 2008 8:53 AM | Link to this

First off, in all likelyhood we will not mive KJ back to the outfield because his value is much higher as a 2B. So either Yunel or Kelly is already the key piece in a trade that is soon to come. I hope that it isn’t the deal with Yunel for Peavy just because the Pad’s passed on that offer earlier because they thought they could get more and they were wrong. Plus all of the crap about how Peavy didn’t want to be here because he thinks we can’t compete.

Screw it. I don’t want Peavy. Either KJ or Yunel as the centerpiece for another pitcher like Grienke would be nice.

I hate to see one of our young midddle infielders go but if it helps solidify our rotation then how can we argue.

Frank Wren, call Kevin Towers’ bluff and don’t go after Peavy. Let them be the victims of their own greed.

By tvsportscaster

December 16, 2008 8:55 AM | Link to this

For those of you speculating that Kelly Johnson might move to LF, forget it, it ain’t happening. So it pretty much means a trade is in the works, and it’s probably Escobar, because I don’t see Fookie being able coming back to play 2nd base.

By zeke

December 16, 2008 8:55 AM | Link to this

NOT! Might as well keep Hampton, bring back Andruw and the others that are no good! The braves constantly spend big money for has beens! The braves will never learn! They and all other Atlanta professional?? sports teams are a joke!

By Rico

December 16, 2008 8:56 AM | Link to this

It’s Official!!!

According to Ken Rosenthal, shortstop Rafael Furcal has reached an agreement with the Braves. He came up with Atlanta, of course. Furcal just needs to pass a physical. Now we’re left to wonder what happens with Yunel Escobar and Kelly Johnson.

By JR

December 16, 2008 8:57 AM | Link to this

Billy At least if we brought Justice or Gant out of retirement they could hit. lol. We have zero offense. Let’s be positive about the Furcal thing. Ok he missed last season, but he is a proven commodity, plus it is a great marketing move since I am sure ticket sales are down. People loved Furcal. I say keep Yunel and play him at second. Trade KJ for an OF and worse case scenario Furcal is hurt and we play Prado who is better than KJ anyway. So what if we spend money we weren’t using it anyway because the FA pool sucks. It’s worth the gamble. It will only be a 3 year deal with a 4th vested option

By Hoosier Aaron

December 16, 2008 8:57 AM | Link to this

If Furcal comes back - you’ve got to believe that Wren has another deal on the table.

If Yuney or Furcal play second and Kelly is traded - that gives us a little more flexibilty to have a left-handed bat in left field.

It also gives us a lead-off hitter, too.

Certainly - gives Wren the ability to be creative in terms of outfield options.

Stay tuned - if Furcal returns - there is gonna be some player movement pretty quickly - I’d say.

By Coach Smith

December 16, 2008 8:57 AM | Link to this

What about a THREE-TEAM-DEAL with the BRAVES, ROYALS, CARDINALS

The ROYALS get : JOJO, MORTON, GORKYS

The CARDINALS get: KJ (who they covet)

The BRAVES get: GRIENKE and ANKIEL

We all know there is a deal coming after this contract is signed…why not this one…solves some problems…just let Shaefer/Diaz platoon in left

By The Alpha Male

December 16, 2008 9:00 AM | Link to this

This can mean only one of three possibilities…. 1) The Braves are doing a “sign and trade” as part of a package deal for some pitching or outfield help. 2) Chipper is moving to first and Escobar to third. 3) Escobar is about to be traded.

By Jim

December 16, 2008 9:02 AM | Link to this

If we get rid of Yunel, I’m gonna be p**.

By bravegal

December 16, 2008 9:03 AM | Link to this

this is like buying a re-tread tire! We need Escobar…if they put this ailing back Furcal at short and trade Escobar, it would be stupid! But shall wait and see what happens next. Agree with Bo..why keep on bringing back that which we got rid of!? and they usually end of on the bench with a now and again appearance—-or so it seems. Yunel is one of the brightest upcoming SS around. He also shows his competitiveness and we all know that Cox likes his players to ‘sleep’ while waiting to bat. Remember what happened to Klesko. He got in people’s faces trying to encourage them to wake up and play ball. oh well. GO RED SOX

By Chopdawg

December 16, 2008 9:03 AM | Link to this

Surprising, unless another move has already been made. Furcal’s great at the top of the order; I’m concerned about the defense he showed in the playoffs last fall. This doesn’t address the Braves two main concerns.

By David

December 16, 2008 9:04 AM | Link to this

I bet there’s something we don’t know yet. There are a few distinct possibilities: 1) Rosenthal is lying again trying to jump a story (wouldn’t be the first time). 2) A trade is already in the works for Escobar (don’t think it would be Peavy or Greinke, probably someone knew that hasn’t been available before now).

By Robert

December 16, 2008 9:04 AM | Link to this

It depends on where this takes us. You dont have to be a rocket scientist to know something is up. You just dont sign a short stop when you have a potential all star short stop in place.

If they trade Escobar for say a Greinke then I would be ticked. Greinke is not a proven true ACE. Now if they do a trade for a Jake Peavy or a Holladay then Im in and happy.

I will have to reserve my emotions to see what this trade really means to Atlanta. It could be a bust. Escobar for Greinke is not worth it. Jurrjens is Greinke. The braves kept him from pitching further into games. Greinke is not the ACE in the hole we need so I would be ticked off bad over that one. Escobar is better then Furcal and a lot cheaper.

By Ron Roberts

December 16, 2008 9:05 AM | Link to this

Glad he’s back; hope he’ll stay healthy. Like many others, I can’t help but wonder what’s the next move.

We’re obviously over-stocked with middle-infielders, now. My guess is we’re eiher about to deal KJ for one of the OF from St. Louis or somebody ate a slice of humble pie and re-ignited the Peavy talks.

Personally, I’d prefer we kept Yunel if there’s some way to do that; not that I don’t like KJ - in fact I think he’s capable of having a Mark DeRosa-like career (and he’s been pretty special for the since he left us) or better; it’s just that I think Yunel’s wired into the game, more, mentally. The base-swipe in Arizona solidified my impression of him, plus I like his range, speed, and I think he’s a clutch hitter.

But if he gets us Jake Peavy - adios Yunel. :)

Either way, we’d still have a hole to fill. The thinking (for me) is that he pitching spot is more important, long-term, because with Schafer, Heward and Gorkys all due to arrive in the ATL in the next 2-3 seasons, we don’t need a long-term name to hold down an OF spot.

Ehh, I dunno. Welcome back, Fook.

By Grimsley

December 16, 2008 9:07 AM | Link to this

I know many of you think that this move was made to free up Escobar for pitching….but I’m of the mind (based on recent comments from Cox) that Yunel will be the Braves SS next year. KJ will be moved for Ankiel (or another OF with pop).

This still leaves the Braves in need of SP.

By Lowcountry Bulldawg

December 16, 2008 9:07 AM | Link to this

Welcome back Budweiser!

By greg

December 16, 2008 9:08 AM | Link to this

This is great. We needed a true leadoff hitter since Furcal left and he will provide a spark. Now we need 2 starting pitchers, a solid lefty out of the bullpen and a LF. Then this team might have a chance to compete.

By JR

December 16, 2008 9:08 AM | Link to this

Coach Smith Not to be a butthole but you’re deal wouldn’t have to be a 3 team deal becaus KC is not getting anyone from St. Louis in your package.

No way the Royals take JO JO, Morton, and Gorkys and give up Greinke. That’s not even a fair trade. They would demand something much higher like Yunel or Frenchy.

No way KJ goes for Ankiel straight up. Throw in a prospect and you might have a shot.

By 22oz

December 16, 2008 9:09 AM | Link to this

Frank Wren defintitely appears to be from the Scheurholtz school. This is one of those moves that you don’t hear a word about, and then it happens, followed by another move you’ve heard nothing about. Can’t wait to see what it is!

By Henry

December 16, 2008 9:10 AM | Link to this

Yes bring him back. Move Chipper to first base, move Escobar to third put Furcal at short and Kelly in left

By Dan

December 16, 2008 9:13 AM | Link to this

Terrible move, Furcal is one of the most overated players in the league, just look at the stats, while he was here, almost identical to Giles. (Look it up its true) Now they aren’t bad stats, for Giles, certainly not for someone who makes $7M a year (and he is not thetype of player likely to get better with age). Escobar is a far better player with more potential. This is crazy talk

By BO..........

December 16, 2008 9:16 AM | Link to this

I would hope Wren has something up his sleve for Greinke. but it sounds more like Jake Peavy made this deal than MR.Wren. this could mean 20 millon per year just to get Peavy. Peavy will come with Furcal in place. Ijust hope they keep funds for Smoltz.

By Tron5000

December 16, 2008 9:16 AM | Link to this

Let the record show that I broke this news at 7:55 this morning on (Mark) Bradley’s Buzz blog.

And obviously we can’t have Fookie, Yunel and KJ all in the infield. Laws of physics prohibit two objects occupying the same place at the same time. So is KJ moving to the OF? Is Yunel being dangled for Peavy (which I’m fine with, by the way)? Is KJ being shopped? Things now seem to be getting a bit more interesting.

What else you got up your sleeve, Franky Wren?

By Jim

December 16, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this

Take a look at the number of games Furcal has played and then look at the number of runs he has scored. After you look at that do you still think its a bad move. On top of that the guy is a good shortstop with a great arm. They should have never let this guy get away if you ask me.

By DannyFish

December 16, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this

My feeling is that KJ will be on the move. And I do NOT think we move Yunel to short. Instead we move Furcal to short in order to keep him healthy. He wouldn’t have to move as much and he doesn’t have to throw across the infield. So Yunel at SS and Fookie at 2B. KJ in a trade package that brings a starting 1 or 2 hole pitcher here that isn’t named Peavy.

But we should probably wait until this is made official by someone other that Ken Rosenthal. I’ve thought that moves were finished too many times this offseason only to find out that it was close but never got done.

By Eric

December 16, 2008 9:18 AM | Link to this

As long as this means they will be able to trade for a legit Starting pitcher then I am all for it. I hope it is Yunel to the Padres for Peavy. He is a legitimate ace who is still young. I would love to keep Yunel in the fold but it seems like he is unhappy with being a Brave so why not use him to get peavy if that is the case.

By Robert

December 16, 2008 9:18 AM | Link to this

Coach, because you are giving up way to many players to get a number 2 pitcher. Grienke is not a ACE. He has potential but so does Jurrjens.

By Bill

December 16, 2008 9:23 AM | Link to this

This is a very bad idea if it leads to trading Escobar or Kelly Johnson. There is risk with any pitcher acquired….just look at the Braves history to see that. If I listed the players the Braves should NOT trade, Escobar would be the first name. He has a great future with somebody. I hope it is the Braves.

By muxi87

December 16, 2008 9:24 AM | Link to this

DOB, you were right all along—you just can’t please these people.

Furcal is a stage setter. A great addition for the top of the lineup. Sure, health is a concern, but we were ready to sign AJ Burnett to a longer and much larger contract…???

Come on guys, this is a good move. We all want a top tier pitcher—well, in case you haven’t heard, those aren’t growing on trees. To get something, you have to give something. Escobar is a fine player, but if this means we’re going to unload him for a true #1, well so be it.

By Tomas

December 16, 2008 9:24 AM | Link to this

Please, it´s a very good move. But when the Braves trade Yunel they better get a backup SS in return, or sign Omar Vizquel too.

By Coach Smith

December 16, 2008 9:24 AM | Link to this

JR

I realize that….I can only put the players that The Braves have a say over…

That deal would obviously require another piece or two going between the CARDINALS and ROYALS to complete the deal!!!

By A.S.

December 16, 2008 9:25 AM | Link to this

Welcome back!

By SUPERIOR

December 16, 2008 9:25 AM | Link to this

Furcal has a strong arm, always has. I bet they’ll move him to pitcher.

By BO..........

December 16, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this

KUDOS JR would not want coach to be my GM or coach either

By Dan

December 16, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this

Jim its a terrible move unless the slash his salary. He is not even in the top ten in avg ops etc. and his fielding is worse. Yet he is paid like an elite shortstop. the Braves can’t afford to do that, which is why they got rid of him in the first place. and as I said he is on the down side as a player who almost exclusively uses his physical gifts rather than work on the finer points of the game. Quite frankly he is a bad leadoff guy

By Tron5000

December 16, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this

Man, where did this come from? I go to bed last night thinking Fookie’s about to sign with the A’s for 4 and $40. Then while I’m getting ready for work I get a text at 7:46 saying he’s coming back to Atlanta, and it’s like, POW! Right in the kisser! POW! Right in the kisser! POW! Right in the kisser! POW! Right in the kisser! POW! Right in the kisser! POW! Right in the kisser! POW! Right in the kisser! POW! Right in the kisser!

By E-Money

December 16, 2008 9:32 AM | Link to this

I just heard on ESPN Radio that the subsequent move by the Braves following the Furcal signing may involve a trade with Toronto. The rumored players in the trade may be Yunel, Charlie Morton, Gorkys Hernandez, Brandon Jones and an additional minor league pitcher for Roy Halliday and Alex Rios.

By ant.b

December 16, 2008 9:32 AM | Link to this

Mr.Wren you did right bye not giving in to the big price free agents,Now take look at B.Sheets and R.Furcal and bring A.Jones back to the ATL and you will be called the best GM in MLB

By DannyFish

December 16, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this

Eric

Where do you get that Yunel doesn’t like being a Brave? I know that he’s had some temper issues but that doesn’t reflect how he feels about ATL. He’s just a fiery player that plays with intensity. And I, for one, think that we need that on our team.

Another reason I tihnk Yunel stays is that Chipper recently made comments about how he thinks Yunel is possibly going to be the best SS in the NL. A ringing endorsment like that from your framchise player means a lot with Braves brass.

By Smack

December 16, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this

I have seen this deal coming for weeks. Raffy has been unwilling to sign with another team until he saw what we were going to do with either Yunel or KJ. While we still have both of those guys, a impact arm on the free agent market no longer existed (D. Lowe we begin a deep decline within a year)and we had to better our team somehow. While I hope Raffy has learned to stop hitting 3-4 pop flys a night and has learned to utilize his speed as a slap hitter, I know that the past 3 years without a true leadoff hitter has been a nightmare. Furcal should be welcomed home with open arms. Also, why do we keep talking about the young Yunel? The guy is already 26 and will only level off from here.

By jenkins

December 16, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this

Contingency plan; Esco, Frenchy, Jo Jo, and 3 more to Pirates for Maholm and McLouth…but Pirates must move Wilson to Dodgers for pitching.

Damn I hate to see Esco leave. But don’t let the door hit Frenchy in the A@@ on the way out.

By worsttofirst

December 16, 2008 9:34 AM | Link to this

Fox Sports reported, on Friday, the Will Muschamp had accepted the Auburn job. Let’s wait and see before we get too excited.

By Ron E.

December 16, 2008 9:35 AM | Link to this

I would rather have spent the money on a free agent outfielder and kept Escobar and Johnson.

By JC from UT

December 16, 2008 9:36 AM | Link to this

For those who have sugessted moving Yunel to 3rd and Chipper to 1st, where does that leave Kotchman? Could he bring in a starting pitcher? Maybe back to the Angels for Joe Saunders?

By SeaAtl

December 16, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this

Wow! A LOT of negative over reaction from folks here. We don’t KNOW what this means - if Escobar or Johnson are going to be traded; if some “position switching” is in the works; etc. What we should take from this is that Wren is thinking, planning, scheming and that this is the first domino to fall in what will likely be a 2 or 3 move, “team defining” series of trades. Relax. Furcal is great - if & when healthy - and I don’s see any negative to it, especially since it probably means (though I don’t KNOW) that we’re going to finally get another decent pitcher.

By BO..........

December 16, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this

how about this line up. ss Furcal 2b Prado 3b Larry Lf Lugwig C McCann cf Ankiel 1b Kotchman rf Francoure

By the real Old Gold

December 16, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this

What in the world are these guys doing??? I think we need new leadership! Escobar is a star in the making. Furcal will be another year and out player. They should have kept Tex also. Escobar has the potential to be the best shortstop in the league.

By bill

December 16, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this

Bobby has never liked Yunel and similiar players who play with emotion and fire. Furcal and Giles started that way but learned real fast that it is not Bobby’s way so they turned into sleepy business players like the rest of the team. I will be surprised if Gonzo is not dealt before the season starts as well. The BRAVES are not going to change until we get a NEW manager. With a couple of more pieces we can be competitive and maybe challenge for a playoff spot but that is about it. Do not see this team going any further no matter who they sign.

By BigWorm

December 16, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this

Don’t forget that the Blue Jays were also in the running for Furcal b/c they need a SS..maybe the Braves send them Escobar for Roy Halladay

By Salmonator

December 16, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this

Welcome back Furcal; hope this leads to bigger and better things on the pitching front. We still have $6M+ that we did not spend on Burnett.

By Chillymutt

December 16, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this

I like the signing. I would suspect that a Kelly Johnson for Zack Greinke trade is in the works. wouldn’t be surprised to hear that announcement in the next day or so.

By Coach Smith

December 16, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this

Boy I would love a trade that brings the BRAVES HALLIDAY and RIOS

By Don

December 16, 2008 9:45 AM | Link to this

I love this signing. It might just be a coincidence but we have not been to the playoffs since Furcal left. I remember very well all of the media and players saying when Furcal was here that he was the catalyst.

When he got it going then the Braves offense got going. I suspect, based upon nothing more than intuition, that this is a precursor for another deal but I would be fine if it is not. Move Furcal to 2nd, play Escobar at Short and try KJ in LF.

Then I would go with speed such as Anderson in CF. As the old saying goes, speed never goes into a slump.

However, I would be surprised to see the above moves because the Braves seem to prefer power over speed so I expect a trade for power is forthcoming.

By richbrave

December 16, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this

Don’t know about this back business. Didn’t MARK KOTSEY have a similar problem.? BIG discount to the market to hire someone with unknowm back issues.

That said, a lead-off hitter would be nice. Not having to rely on PRADO lets JOHNSON go back to LF. FURCAL, ESCOBAR at #2, JONES, BIG FA CF bat, McCANN, JOHNSON, KOTCHMAN, FRANCOUER much better line-up than last year I think. But then my memory is not was it twenty-five years ago. Oh yeah, TEX. Uh, where’s TEX.? So maybe not as good. Depends on whether we sign a FA bopper, or trade for one which seems more likely all the time. I mean since we didn’t land PEAVY OR BURNETT. More apt to land a great hitter for lower minors prospects than a top pitcher like PEAVY. HANSON and HEYWARD remain with the BRAVES that way.

Anyway, sign NORTON for the bench with ROSS, INFANTE and PRADO, and OHMAN for the bull-pen.

Crazy to let OHMAN walk with the bull-pen where it is. We’ve having tryouts in that part of the club. Picking up lefty reliefers from the WAIVER WIRE for Gods sake. SIGN OHMAN.

By Idea Man

December 16, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this

Good move, I guess. Best move would be to get Maddux back in the fold as the heir to the Cox regime. Some combination of Maddux, Smoltz, Glavine should be running the Braves forthe next twenty or so years..Period.

By J

December 16, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this

Furcal 2B, Escobar SS. Signed. Sealed. Delivered. Sorry “KJ”, we need the speed and the bat.

The Bravos are looking good.

By Blackberry Cobbler

December 16, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this

Here we go again.

Trading our future (Escobar) for an injured but hopefully recovered player.

A risky move that hardly ever works out in the Braves favor.

By tulsabravo

December 16, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this

STUPID

By Bravo!

December 16, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this

I can see Kelly being traded for Ankiel, and Furcal at 2nd alongside Yunel, forming a terrific double play combo. We add a leadoff hitter, seriously upgrade a pathetic outfield, and still have the ability to go after some pitching help. Not the best deal (signing Raffy) but can potentially help us out in many areas of need.

By LT-A blogger

December 16, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this

If Furcal stays healthy, this is a great signing. Braves have really suffered without a lead off type guy since he left.

I’m hoping they keep Escobar and deal KJ. Would the Royals take KJ, Gorkys, and Jojo (or another pitcher not named Hanson) for Grienke? Move Furcal to 2nd.

The only thing missing at that point is a clean up hitter.

FW definitely has something up his sleeve- really interested to see what it is.

By DON

December 16, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this

I like the deal. It automatically upgrades the offense in case nothing else happens in the trade market and it gives us leverage in dealing for more pitching depth. If we can’t upgrade the pitching to make us morte competitve, we can go with the pitching we have (and rely on a strong bullpen) and use the players and/or remaining money to shore up the outfield.

By PJ

December 16, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this

This is a fantastic move. Wren seemed kind of handcuffed in terms of improving this team given the way this market looks. This signing at the very least gives him some flexibility to improve the team in a number of ways. I’ll be interested to see the contract Furcal’s signing.

By Big Brave

December 16, 2008 9:51 AM | Link to this

Hitnskins, Furcal’s On Base Percentage as lead off hitter for the Braves was atrocious. He never walked all that much, and he certainly never learned the art of working the count which helps a team get into the opposing team’s bullpen quicker. For the money, I hope he can play another position, because “Medellin” (Yunel “Pablo” Escobar) is awesome.

By Coach Smith

December 16, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this

SALMONATOR

The BRAVES had around $50 million to spend

FURCAL adds 10 mil Vazquez adds 11.5 mil

If my math is correct, that still gives the BRAVES around 28.5 million to spend

By Chief Knockahoma

December 16, 2008 9:53 AM | Link to this

Yay Rafael Hampton is back.

By shugie

December 16, 2008 9:53 AM | Link to this

Bloody perfect structure

Love it, best SS in baseball is back

Now make a trade for PEAVVYYYYYYYYYY

By Bo

December 16, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this

This is Bo with the little o. Wren said he had a deal that depended on the other team making a trade...Pirates, Blue Jays, Royals and Red Sox. Power Bat are Pitcher?

Agree with Bill on Mgr. Cox needs to go and take his kid Frenchy with him.

By Dadgum

December 16, 2008 9:57 AM | Link to this

Denizen friends this is a move that has been talked about for over 2 months. Furcal was the Braves #1 free agent option/target at SS in the proposed Peavy deal. Now it appears to be happening pending the physical today.

Since Wren indicated to the press at the meetings that he had some potential trade partners in place, it is apparent that the Braves are not acquiring Peavy unless at least 3 teams are involved.

Greinke looks like the frontrunner here. Solid, young, and cheap. A pitcher we can build with and a smart move. Without a doubt Escobar is gone. He is a great talent but isn’t a 2nd baseman with that arm and range. He would be the centerpiece of a trade and start at SS for the acquiring team.

It may also be the move that spells the end of Smoltz in Atlanta. If Smoltz is eyeing a championship team that is. Even with Greinke the Braves will be a #3 finisher at best in the division. Neverthelesss they are building the right way in a bad economy. If indeed we somehow acquire Peavy then Smoltz should stay as he most likely wants to do anyway.

Other players will be involved and I can’t see KC giving up Greinke without getting one of our pitching prospects in return. Look for Reyes or Morton to be gone to KC.

Seems like that Greinke/Escobar rumor leaked during the meetings had some teeth. Hey may not be KC. We will find out today as soon as Furcal passes that physical.

Rock on…….Can the Braves convince Smoltz to stay? Nevermind that is another blog entirely!!

By Greg Maddux

December 16, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this

I definitely think i should be considered for the Braves coaching vacancy after BC retires. But they need to get some good starting pitchers in here for me to coach! Welcome home Raffy!

By benny

December 16, 2008 10:00 AM | Link to this

i really, really hope we dont trade escobar, he is the ss of the future. maybe a package deal including kj for another pitcher or of w/ some pop in his bat. Furcal at 2nd saves the wear and tear on his body to keep him off the DL. Furcal and Escobar up the middle is the best tandem in MLB other than utley and j rollins. anyone realize that we havent made the playoffs since furcal left? Good omen for 09.

By jch

December 16, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this

Furcal sounds great and you can’t argue with his talent if he stays healthy.

The back problem concerns me. We saw what it did to Kotsay. But with Infante/Prado as a back-up we can afford the risk as well as having solid back-up to rest Furcal fairly often.

So, who goes? Escobar or Johnson? My prefence would be to trade Johnson but I’m OK with either.

By Koz

December 16, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this

Please get rid of KELLY JOHNSON he is terrible!!!

By JS

December 16, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this

Get a good/proven leadoff in Furcal. Get rid of Escobar’s cocky butt

By BO..........

December 16, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this

COACH i think most of us are with you . I would do that trade even if it meant using Visquel at ss and maybe even trading Hanson.(hmmmmmm)

By SeaAtl

December 16, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this

This is good, exciting news and none of us know exactly what it means - sure seems like Escobar might get traded now, but not necessarily. One move in what is likely to be a series of moves that could make all of our belly-aching pretty comical when looking back in a few weeks………

By Ed Burnley

December 16, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this

Why bring the loser Furry Call back. Braves need a closer. That was their downfall in 08.

By BO..........

December 16, 2008 10:05 AM | Link to this

Would not mind seeing Andrue back for 1 year if Dodgers pay half his salary.

By hope not

December 16, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this

DKW.com just reported the Dodgers were about to send Andruw Jones back to Braves. So Braves will have that big Bat back.

By Michael Banks

December 16, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this

It is not a bad move bringing Furcal back but I dont think we should rush to move Escobar for just anyone. I know we need starting pitching but we should not give up too much. Escobar is SOLID. We might consider playing Furcal at second base and trading Kelley Johnson. This is all unless some incredible pitcher becomes availible to us. I am just worried Furcal is going to be injury plagued.

By Nocturnal Owl

December 16, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this

Fookie!!!!

By Dadgum

December 16, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

Folks, trust me, the Braves are NOT acquiring Furcal to play 2nd. As a free agent Furcal is not going anywhere to play 2nd base. Escobar ain’t moving to 2nd base and we aren’t acquiring a #1 or #2 starter without giving up Escobar.

The only move mentioned that makes any sense and I have eluded to it on numerous occassions on the DOB blog is to move KJ to LF and Prado to 2nd. You immediately strengthen the entire team and save money on a LF acquisition that isn’t going to be any better in HR potential or defense in LF than KJ. Exactly why the Braves can’t see this and are too stubborn to acknowledge it is beyond me. Maybe a RH bat is the reason but on a 162 game season the RH bat isn’t going to make up for KJ in LF.

Rock on…………

By Arthur

December 16, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this

I would rather have an Escobar on the way up than a Furcal on the way down. Sure Escobar is a little immature and has a little attitude, but he is an enormous talent. Furcal gets to a lot of balls, but makes fielding and throwing errors. Lets keep our home grown talent and develop from the farm and have another 14 year run.

Go Braves

Arthur from Ruckersville

By sapelodawg

December 16, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this

Furcal? Why not just play with 8 fielders? The defense would be just as good and they would save money on salaries. Furcal is a joke without a punch line.

By Tony

December 16, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this

DKW.com? Whats that?

By BO..........

December 16, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this

im sure the real greg would prefer coaching in california. He will be a great one.

By Dadgum

December 16, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this

HOPE NOT…..Andruw Jones does not have a big bat and frankly has lost a step in CF. Oh yeah add that he has Boras as an agent and you can bet that Andruw will never play in Atlanta again. Ever.

Rock on…….

By Original Jon

December 16, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this

Seems it was premature, its not confirmed yet. Yes they have interest, but a deal has not been made yet, I knew it

By jenkins

December 16, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

BO…..You crazy man. u want AJ back after his last two years of zero production, and missed 3/4 season. Furcal back and he just played 36 games last year. You and Cox must be #@%$*%$# buddy’s.

By Original Jon

December 16, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this

Dadgum It has been reported that Furcal has been playing second base in winter ball.

By Jim

December 16, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this

How many one run games do we lose last year? Furcal scores a lot of runs and prevents the other team from scoring with his strong play at shortstop. If this goes through it instantly makes the Braves a much better team.

By austinbrave

December 16, 2008 10:25 AM | Link to this

just heard on ESPN Radio that the subsequent move by the Braves following the Furcal signing may involve a trade with Toronto. The rumored players in the trade may be Yunel, Charlie Morton, Gorkys Hernandez, Brandon Jones and an additional minor league pitcher for Roy Halliday and Alex Rios.

Anybody else here anything about this. What a deal this would be. Watch out Mets, & Phillies

By RK

December 16, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this

As a Phillies fan, I think it is a great move. Keep getting older, Braves! Keep trading away your prospects and young players!

By Original Jon

December 16, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this

Arthur We have not been to the playoffs in the past 3 years, same amount of time Furcal has been gone. Coincidence? I think not.

Also, Furcal is homegrown talent, in case you didnt know that.

By Casey

December 16, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this

DOB,Great call from several weeks ago.

By Lew

December 16, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this

Dadgum-Kelly hasn’t played the outfield all that much-about 79 games. His fielding stats were fine, but I think the Braves are looking for someone to play left that hits 25-30 HR. Kelly has hit 23 HR once in the minors and only hit as many as 16 in the majors.

Also-Martin Prado is not thought of as a full time second baseman, no matter what your opinion of him is. Why do you think that’s the case? That the Braves have no clue or reason for this stance? Time to face facts-Prado is a great bench player but no one except a few fans think of him as an everyday ML 2B or Kelly would have been traded long ago and Prado inserted into the lineup full time..

By ncscoots

December 16, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this

Halliday, Rios, Furcal, and Vazquez would take the Braves just a wee bit over budget, I would think.

By Ozzie

December 16, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this

Austinbrave - I have not heard this but it would be interesting.

That is not enough pitching for Halladay IMHO since they just lost AJ.

I would imagine they would want Robo or Locke added to the deal.

By Original Jon

December 16, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this

AustinBrave, you are pulling our legs arent you, please say you are not, but you have to be.

By One Man's View

December 16, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this

And I thought one can’t go home again. If there is the latest concern that Furcal is not healthy, this will go down as the dumbest move since Al Habrosky. But that’s why Wren makes the big bucks. Don’t need both Escabar and Furcal if F is healthy.

By Bo

December 16, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this

Austinbrave, I don’t believe it but that would be one of the greatest deals Braves could make.

By Lew

December 16, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this

austinbrave-If that deal is for real (I won’t hod my breath), then I would imagine that some bloggers who want Wren’s @$$ fired may have to change their tunes real quick.

By BO..........

December 16, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this

ESPN just reported Furcal is a done deal pending phy.

By Eric B

December 16, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this

By E-Money

December 16, 2008 9:32 AM | Link to this

I just heard on ESPN Radio that the subsequent move by the Braves following the Furcal signing may involve a trade with Toronto. The rumored players in the trade may be Yunel, Charlie Morton, Gorkys Hernandez, Brandon Jones and an additional minor league pitcher for Roy Halliday and Alex Rios

I’d be all for that trade imo Halladay and Rios would be exactly what we need in the OF and at SP…not sure Toronto would do it but man o man would that upgrade our club.

By Lew

December 16, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this

RK-You mean older adding a 32 year old player as opposed to the Phillies offering a 46 year old Jamie Moyer a two year contract through to age 48? Or older like the Phillies got offering a three year deal to a 36 year old Ibanez?

Just what do the Phillies’ fans think of playing without Utley?