ajcsportstalk

By Alex

January 13, 2009 10:56 AM | Link to this

I guess something is better than nothing. I can count on a .500 season!

Yesss!

By NC Braves fan

January 13, 2009 10:56 AM | Link to this

LOVE IT!!! now go get a big bat and we could compete!

By Carroll

January 13, 2009 10:56 AM | Link to this

FIRST! The best they could do at this point.

By kvstrobe

January 13, 2009 10:56 AM | Link to this

This is a good deal. Now we need power in the outfield.

This helps make up for letting Smoltz slip away.

By JOE

January 13, 2009 10:57 AM | Link to this

im ready for sprong training..Now sign Dunn and Ohlmamn and we are all set..

By mac

January 13, 2009 10:57 AM | Link to this

1

By True Braves Fan

January 13, 2009 10:57 AM | Link to this

Will be an innings eater…

By David

January 13, 2009 10:57 AM | Link to this

4 years and $60mil on a 35 year old pitcher? WOW! Pays to be on the downside of your career in today’s market!

By FalconUGAFan

January 13, 2009 10:58 AM | Link to this

Well thats a bit of good news. Potential ace, but I would settle for alot of quality innings.

By cvbraves

January 13, 2009 10:58 AM | Link to this

Terrific job, Mr. Wren, on the starting pitchers you have added.

And, I know you aren’t done yet!

I figure a bat or two (including Andruw) and yet another starting pitching plus Ohman.

You’ve done what you said you would (more I’d say), and you didn’t sell the farm or break the bank!

By liz

January 13, 2009 10:58 AM | Link to this

This smacks of desperation. They couldn’t find a few extra mil to keep Smoltz around, but can cough up 15 a year for Lowe? What happened to the “return to youth movement”? I hope he turns it down. It’ll sting at first as a fan, but this is a waste of money. We’re not contending this year anyway.

By Blue Magic

January 13, 2009 10:58 AM | Link to this

He’s going to be an expensive number 3 starter in 2010….

By ilikeit

January 13, 2009 10:58 AM | Link to this

the best pickup we could have made at this point…i might actually go to a few games now

By quint

January 13, 2009 10:58 AM | Link to this

Lowe’s worth 15 million a year but Smoltz is not worth 5 million with insurance?

Wren better hope this is a slam dunk move.

By 2Old2

January 13, 2009 10:59 AM | Link to this

I see him as a good acquisition. In the other deals they wanted the Braves to give up too much. Now we have Lowe at the top of the rotation and Hansen as #5. GO BRAVES

By Gwalk

January 13, 2009 10:59 AM | Link to this

At least they are doing something rather than nothing like in the past few weeks!

By Matt the Brave

January 13, 2009 10:59 AM | Link to this

Seems expensive, but hey, more power to Lowe and Scott Boras for getting it done. I hope that he wins at least 14 this coming season! Not a bad rotation now, and much better when Hudson comes back!

Now:

1) Lowe 2) Vazquez 3) Jurrjens 4) Kawakami 5) Campillo

Later in the season: 1) Lowe 2) Hudson 3) Vazeuez 4) Jurrjens 5) Kawakami

Not bad at all!

By Preston

January 13, 2009 10:59 AM | Link to this

Good for us - this with the Japaneese pitcher too gives a pretty decent rotation. You’ve almost redeemed yourself Wren

By YunelFan

January 13, 2009 10:59 AM | Link to this

I have no complaints.

By Boribrave

January 13, 2009 11:00 AM | Link to this

This are great news. Finnaly we have our ACE! Let’s hope we get a power hitter on the left field. Wren…keep on working!!!

By sean

January 13, 2009 11:00 AM | Link to this

ridiculous, pathetic, are just 2 of many words I can think of about the Braves front office decisions this offseason…SERIOUSLY??…60 mil for Derek LOWE?? you’ve got to be kidding me, 60 mil for a 35 yr old, and you couldnt give 3mil more to John Smoltz?. This is unbelieavable—-Great Wren, you had money to spend alright..but on this guy?..cmon now!… I hope I’m wrong, but this was a bad move—one word to sum this up— DESPERATION!…

By MoBrave

January 13, 2009 11:00 AM | Link to this

Outstanding! Now let’s go after that outfielder.

By Christian Robinson

January 13, 2009 11:01 AM | Link to this

A $60,000,000 overreaction by Frank Wren.

By displaced

January 13, 2009 11:01 AM | Link to this

It’s a good sign. But is it okay if we still say we think Smoltz should still be a Brave, too?

By FireFrank

January 13, 2009 11:01 AM | Link to this

$60 M for 4 years to a 35 year old?!?!

Ok I realize we are desperate, but a smart way to handle such desperation would be to add another prospect and succumb to Padre’s demands for one. Now 28 year old Peavy for 4yrs $60M is totally worth it!

And this Japanese loser has never played in the big leagues and hes 32…. Good Job Frank … haa not!

Our rotation is gonna be old as hell and will not make it to August.

Great Jo Jo is gonna be our 4th starter!

Hopefully we can find a true ace sometime over the next couple years!

By Charlie

January 13, 2009 11:01 AM | Link to this

Not convinced that he is worth $15 million over the next 4 years. i think the Braves just got desperate to get someone since they were burned with Burnett and Furcal, so they overpaid to get someone who could be considered an “ace.” I dont think it will work out as well as the Braves hope. But this will not stop me from cheering for them.

By Mark Z

January 13, 2009 11:01 AM | Link to this

Me thinking that this isn’t the greatest move….dude is 35!!

By jukeandjive

January 13, 2009 11:01 AM | Link to this

Yes. Getting Hudson back late summer will feel like a trade. By years end: Lowe, Hudson, JJ, Vazquesz, Kawakami certainly looks a lot better. Fix left and/or center and I like our chances of competing.

By JJ

January 13, 2009 11:02 AM | Link to this

This move had to be done (of course still assuming the Braves don’t ultimately get flipped on this one like they did with Burnett and Furcal.) The rotation looks fairly solid again. Not spectacular, but solid. Now just sign another power bat, preferably in the OF.

By Chillymutt

January 13, 2009 11:02 AM | Link to this

Now if can just sign Smoltz ….. doh!

By Pickens

January 13, 2009 11:03 AM | Link to this

I think Lowe is a great signing because he adds to the already healthy proven inning eaters that are in the Braves rotation. Now I still believe they need an outfield bat (not named Andruw Jones). I wish we would really go after Adam Dunn, but I’m not sure the Braves have enough money. But the Braves have come a long way over the past couple of weeks, although some work still needs to be done.

By John

January 13, 2009 11:03 AM | Link to this

This is GREAT news! We need a durable and DEEP starting rotation! These guys seem to be very durable and it helps keep the young guys in the minors. Lowe isnt an ace but is is certainly close enough! I just hope that Hudson can come back strong. Think of our rotation with a healthy Hudson….wow.

Now lets go get our left fielder with power and get to spring training already!

By BrandonC

January 13, 2009 11:03 AM | Link to this

GREAT deal for Atlanta in a much needed spot. I was losing faith in the front office, but they have redeemed themselves. The gauranteed fourth year is a little much, but it had to be done to get him here.

Considering what Frank Wren has been through this year I think he’s done a very good job at reconstructing this rotation. To add 3 quality starters (Lowe being one of the top 3 on the market) is not an easy thing to do in one offseason by any means. And he’s done it with people spitting in his face. Way to go Frank…

Now we need a big bat.

By bravester

January 13, 2009 11:03 AM | Link to this

Is the deal final ???? Until it is i am not believing it. I checked all the other major websites and no one is confirming it yet.

By Max

January 13, 2009 11:03 AM | Link to this

Yes Lowe is being overpaid but hey we have the money and we need him so why not. Wren, dont think that Lowe and Kawakami are goin to all of the sudden make the Braves contenders. ITS NOT. The Braves still have a ways to go. When Andruw Jones is released go and get him for the league minimum which would sure up CF. Yes i know Andruw did HORRIBLE last season but give him a chance i would rather have AJ than Gregor Blanco. Then go sign Dunn or Abreau to sure up left and then we will be contenders.

By Fred

January 13, 2009 11:03 AM | Link to this

Awesome! Lowe is MUCH better than Burnett and cost less too.

By FIRE Wren

January 13, 2009 11:04 AM | Link to this

So let me get this straight…Frank “I should stick to little league” Wren is willing to pay Lowe 15 million a year but will only offer Smoltz 2.5 million? Like I said before, turn in your resignation NOW Wren. You have already lost more Braves fans than you’ll ever admit. No offense D. Lowe, this isn’t about you. It’s about the idiot you’re working for. I hope Smoltz has a career year in Boston.

By t money

January 13, 2009 11:04 AM | Link to this

He’s not a bondafide “number one” pitcher like everyone hoped for but he is definitely a great number two. He, JJ, and Vazquez are all “number two” type talents. We might not have an ace that will win 20+ games, but we really have some pitching depth now. Now it’s time to sign Bobby Abreu…

Keep up the good work Frank.

By Dave

January 13, 2009 11:04 AM | Link to this

Definitely a good deal and needed. Now if a quality outfielder get be obtained the Braves have a possible shot at competing.

By crap-wheelie

January 13, 2009 11:04 AM | Link to this

It’s an OK deal. Lowe is not an ace. But if the team contracts Hudson for next year, Lowe could be a solid two. I worry a lot about the fact that all of our pitchers are right handed. You just know that Bobby will use that as an excuse to continue to promote Jo Jo Reyes as an MLB pitcher. He’s a AAAA pitcher: better than AAA, not good enough for the Majors. I also worry that scouting reports on Kawakami say that his fastball is very hittable. If so, the team ERA is going to be very, very high.

By hitnskins

January 13, 2009 11:04 AM | Link to this

I can only say that it’s better than nothing……and i think it shows just how desperate FRANK WREN and the BRAVES were to offer that much money and that amount of time in a contract offer to LOWE, who they had NO INTEREST in at the beginning of the offseason!! They can spin it however they want to, but facts are facts!

I wish nothing but the best for Lowe and the Braves….but this is nothing but a move of desperation!

By bryan

January 13, 2009 11:04 AM | Link to this

Lowe - By REM

Dusk is dawn is day Where did Smoltz go? I’ve been crying Fast and slow Moving in a still frame Howling at the moon Wren found me crying Up and down, down Lowe, lowe, lowe

Braves suit him fine Our defense suits him fine I’ve been so happy, happy Way up high, high In between Down below Lowe, lowe, lowe Lowe, lowe, lowe

I skipped the part about Smoltz It seems so silly and lowe Lowe, lowe, lowe Lowe, lowe, lowe

Lowe, lowe, lowe Lowe, lowe, lowe

By footlongdawg

January 13, 2009 11:05 AM | Link to this

Great job!!!!

Now Chipper get yourself in gear and shock all of us Braves fans and play 160 games in 09.

Forget Smoltz 10 million on a might????

dont you know mites grow on chicken butts.

By Mark

January 13, 2009 11:05 AM | Link to this

Better than not doing anything at all.

By C's

January 13, 2009 11:05 AM | Link to this

Great signing.

By JMar

January 13, 2009 11:05 AM | Link to this

Yes we slightly overpaid, maybe by $4-$8 million. But he’s the best starter available, and we’re in a new era where we may have to overpay slightly to outbid the Mets. Is he the ace? No, and even if he were, we’ve seen that it’s the power-pitching aces that generally flourish in the post season. Is he better than what we’ve got? Absolutely. Not a great deal, but one that had to be made if the Braves are going to remain competitive.

By DavisA

January 13, 2009 11:05 AM | Link to this

As a new BoSox fan, what do I care? Sure looks like they still have a Double A first baseman and minor league outfield.
The addition of Lowe and Ginsu mean they are favored over the Nationals…still a 3rd or 4th place team.

By Poorbrave

January 13, 2009 11:06 AM | Link to this

Over paid but we need him…Fire Wren!!

By Smack

January 13, 2009 11:06 AM | Link to this

We finally have our ace! Not the one we wanted, but now we won’t be the laughing stock of the league!

By VolBrave

January 13, 2009 11:06 AM | Link to this

A little bit more than I would have liked to paid for a 35 yr old BUT if we don’t, then this offseason is a complete disaster. So, it was necessary. Now we can go in the season with a glimmer of hope…which is all some of us ask for.

By GermanBravesFan

January 13, 2009 11:06 AM | Link to this

I believe it is a better signing than AJ Burnett and better than the proposed trade for Peavy. On paper, Lowe is more durable than Burnett and, hopefully, he will remain free of major injuries. While this still not makes up for losing Smoltz, it is at least a sign of life for the Braves. Let’s see what will be next. A power bat for the outfield would be great. I am also hoping for a return of Andruw Jones IF he signs a minor league contract… He does have something to prove and I sure hope he can pull through!! The least thing the Lowe signing does is create some excitement again - much needed (positive) excitement after the loss of the icon Smoltz! Even though, after reading what he had to say, I don’t think it was about the money or lack of respect. John Smoltz wanted to pitch for a winner and he didn’t think the Braves could make the play-offs this season. They still may not, but at least there is light at the end of the tunnel!!! GO BRAVES!!!

By letsgomets

January 13, 2009 11:07 AM | Link to this

They wouldnt give smoltize 5 mill so they give this guy 15 mill? Unbelieveable

They should give bobby cox a 1 mill bonus per booger picked.

By TheDunderChief

January 13, 2009 11:07 AM | Link to this

I like this much better than the offer we had for the oft injured AJ Burnett.

By Pickens

January 13, 2009 11:07 AM | Link to this

I mean I would rather have 3 durable inning eaters than one ace and one inning eaters b/c that ace would it be Peavy or Burnett have had health questions and it is best Atlanta stay out of those situations.

By Joseph

January 13, 2009 11:07 AM | Link to this

Lowe Duece K Vazquez Jurrjens ?????

Not too bad.

By staggerlee

January 13, 2009 11:08 AM | Link to this

Now we’re getting results! He will do much better than AJ! Good work Frank! Now get us a batter and another pitcher named Will.

By dogsbrekky

January 13, 2009 11:08 AM | Link to this

Great move for us

Lowe is a gamer and has won > 75 games in last 5 years, sinker ball pitcher with 3/4 of a great infield will be excellent for the Braves…

By Who cares anymore

January 13, 2009 11:08 AM | Link to this

This to me just seems like a rush job to pay 60 mil for Lowe, is Wren trying to get back on the good side of the public eye. You sign a guy like this to that much money, yet you will not give Smoltz 2/3 million more. Its pathetic!!!!

By GermanBravesFan

January 13, 2009 11:08 AM | Link to this

David… how old was Tom Glavine when he signed with the Mets? I believe he was as old as Lowe and did sign for significant money as well!

By Jt

January 13, 2009 11:08 AM | Link to this

Sometimes you have to overpay. He will pile up innings and wins. Had to have him.

By Del

January 13, 2009 11:09 AM | Link to this

Only time will tell. But we can be hopeful.

By BOOGER

January 13, 2009 11:09 AM | Link to this

JUST A FEW DAYS AGO WE THOUGHT THE SEASON WAS DONE NOW WE ARE TALKING POST SEASON WITH THE HELP OF A POWER HITTER. WREN YOU ARE AWESOME.

By rob2595

January 13, 2009 11:09 AM | Link to this

I know we over paid but getting him puts a good #2 on our staff and keeps him off the Mets. He will need to be our #1 b/c Hudson is out for the year so we will go with Lowe, Jurrigens, Vasquez, Kawakami, and then #5 is Morton, Reyes, Campillo or Hanson. We have a shortage on lefties. I like being able to move Campillo to the pen and hopefully Soriano can set up and Gonzalez will close. Now we need a #4 hitter in LF and maybe we are in position to compete.

By thirdwheel3131

January 13, 2009 11:10 AM | Link to this

After being unable to land Peavy, Lowe is who the Braves should have targeted to begin with. Lowe should provide solid results at least in the first 2 years (similar to what he did in LA). Obviously anyone nearing 40 would be a concern for some drop off, but since he doesn’t throw 98 and hasn’t ever had a significant injury, he seems a solid gamble for 4yrs at 60 — 20 mil less than the HUGE disaster AJ Burnett is going to turn out to be.

While his stuff isn’t “electric” like a Peavy, Lowe will provide solid leadership at the top of a now very solid (even if unspectacular) rotation.

The Braves are now 1 hitter (dunn/ankiel/Dye/Abreu) away from being a fairly decent team. I already think the pitching is better than what we started with last year.

If Hanson turns into a Liriano type of situation, things could be very interesting.

But they still need to get a legit hitter.

By gw

January 13, 2009 11:10 AM | Link to this

Frank Wren must be the worst GM in history. 60M for a 35 year old pitcher. He’ll be close to 40 by the end of contract. Yichhs. Count on one good year (like 16-10 ERA 3.20) from him and then elbow injury ruins the next 3 years.

He should’ve gotten Jake Peavy……or use that money and got Manny

By don

January 13, 2009 11:10 AM | Link to this

I have been a fan of the Braves since 1953. After the disasterous Drew and Teixeira deals, I learned that I can just as easiloy root against them as for them. the boneheaded handling of the Smoltz matter and the predicted overreaction of paying Lowe far more than anyone else would ever consider seals the deal. Low to get $15M a year when Smoltz was offered $2M? Outrageous.

My new team? Whomever is playing the Braves. It will be an honor to root against a team being destroyed by the moron Wren, with guidance from Schuerholz, of course.

By jimmy

January 13, 2009 11:10 AM | Link to this

Lowe not a JOHN SMOLTZ fire WREN NOW !!!!!

By FootballFan29

January 13, 2009 11:11 AM | Link to this

Just a prime example of the Braves making a quick decision and overspending on a player that wasn’t getting many looks(mets offered 3yrs and 36 million). I knew this would happen because of the fallout with the whole Smoltz issue. The Braves had to do something to save face, therefor overpaying for Lowe is what they have done.

Plain and simple, the rotation is not very good top to bottom! Then the Braves have no hitters in the positions of 2B,LF,CF and really 1B(Casey is a defensive 1B, not a hitter). So that means that the Braves offense will rely on really once again on Escobar,Chipper,Franceour,McCann. Hate to tell you, but that isn’t going to get the Braves to the playoffs.

Congrats Mr. Wren on overpaying and bidding against yourself for one of Scott Boras’s players. Say what you want about Boras, but the bottom line is this, he makes teams pay what he wants and what he sets as their price and he got the Braves to do it once again!

Prediction with current roster for 2009:

84 wins at most

By BravoMan

January 13, 2009 11:11 AM | Link to this

To all those Wren bashers out there I say eat it! The Lowe deal made all the since in the world to me. With our good defencive infield of GG potential in Yunel, Chipper, and Kotchman it’l be great to have a sinkerballer. Wren did some great things this offseason and it’s not even over with.

1.Aquired three quality Starting pitchers

2.Kept our prospects intact

3.Opened a new door to Japanese talent

Wren you are one heck of a GM. GO BRAVOS!!!

By Mort Merkel

January 13, 2009 11:12 AM | Link to this

Looks like the past couple of days have brought us what looks like a potentially decent rotation. Another bat and a comeback season for Frenchy and it could be a contending year.

By Russ

January 13, 2009 11:12 AM | Link to this

Lowe is the solid and dependable starter this team desperately needed !

4 good starters with Hanson, Glavine, Campillo, Morton, and Reyes to fight for the 5th spot and add delth to th bullpen.

If a .300 / 25 HR / 100 RBI bad can be found ! Come on down to Atlanta Bobby Abreau !

Lets suprise the NL East. With a good bat added to the lineup we would look like a legitimate 80 - 90 win team on paper.

By Realist

January 13, 2009 11:13 AM | Link to this

Let’s see, we can’t afford to pay a 42-year old Smoltz a couple of extra million dollars for one year, but we can afford to pay $15M per year for four years to a guy who will be 40 when the contract ends. Makes sense to me.

By 22oz

January 13, 2009 11:13 AM | Link to this

Blaine Boyer thanks Frank Wren for getting some innings eaters for the rotation.

By Devil's Advocate

January 13, 2009 11:14 AM | Link to this

I like this signing. But tell me: what does this say about the Braves’ view, short-term and long-term, on Charlie Morton? You gotta think the Braves feel Hanson will be ready by next year. If so, then there are now a lot of big contracts plus Hanson & Jurrjens that will be ahead of Morton. Kinda puzzling to think the Braves may be willing to give up on Morton so quickly, especially if he was the prospect that he was hyped to be coming in to last year.

Overall though, great signing of Lowe. Now get a legit #4 hitter (Adam Dunn?) and this team has some real potential…….

By bert

January 13, 2009 11:14 AM | Link to this

Great signing by frankie. Dlowe was the best pitcher left on the market, he’s a workhorse and imagine next year going with Dlowe, huddy, JJ, vasquez and kawikame! I’d run with that rotation any day. Way to save face frank.

By hallcountyobserver

January 13, 2009 11:15 AM | Link to this

is this a “real deal” yet or just an “almost real deal” as with furcal?

By jasonV

January 13, 2009 11:15 AM | Link to this

Think about it, A.J. for the same price. I think Lowe is the better pitcher. Burnett had one 200 inning season in the last five. Lowe is just what the Braves need. If Hudson comes back strong in August then you have a real deal rotation! Not to mention “next” season.

By sfblump

January 13, 2009 11:15 AM | Link to this

With the signing of Vasquez, Hawakami, and Lowe to go along with Juergens, I’m feeling better about the Smoltz debacle. With all the big, salary years, that Smoltz enjoyed, its my thought he should have taken the Braves lower offer. Then prove his shoulder is sound and finish his career with the Braves

By TDub

January 13, 2009 11:15 AM | Link to this

Love it. We should have one of the strongest rotations in baseball, especially if/when Hudson comes back next year. Lowe/Kawakami/Jurrjens/Vazquez/Rookie is solid top to bottom (if not spectacular). I don’t think they’re necessarily overpaying either, Lowe is better and more reliable than Burnett.

By staggerlee

January 13, 2009 11:16 AM | Link to this

GET OFF WREN’S CASE! HE JUST GAVE US A MORE DURABLE PITCHER THAN AJ, A JAPANESE PITCHER WHO WILL BE GOOD AND VAZQUEZ WHO WILL SURPRISE YOU THIS YEAR. BESIDES,IT’S NOT YOUR MONEY HE IS SPENDING!!! GO FRANK! GET US MORE. TRADE KJ FOR ANOTHER BAT AND SIGN A FREE AGENT HITTER. YOU’RE DOING A GOOD JOB!

By same ol thing

January 13, 2009 11:16 AM | Link to this

Makes me wonder if having Smoltz and Glavine in the rotation with their health issues really hurt this club in the search for free agents. Maybe the other pitchers didnt want to come here until there was a reasonable expectation of a truely healthy rotation. Something we have not had for a long long time.

Oh well, looking better every day. Maybe this Ken K can win a few this year. I saw his video and he puts it where he wants to put it. He will be ok I think. Ken K can work out the bugs during spring training and the pitcher practices before pitchers and catchers report.

By Todd

January 13, 2009 11:17 AM | Link to this

We need to make sure he has signed on the dotted line and doesn’t change his mind and bolt for LA!!!!

By N8

January 13, 2009 11:17 AM | Link to this

He was the guy I wanted all along. Not quite as “sexy” as Jake Peavy, but at the end of the year, their numbers will be the same, Lowe has been better in post-season (if Braves are lucky enough to get there), and we keep all of the prospects - and Escobar - that it would have cost us for Peavy.

Older than Burnett, but even at 36, he’s a safer bet, IMO.

LOVE the signing.

Not sure at age 36, he’s worth 15 million per season, but the Braves have the money, and the need…. Match made in heaven, IMO.

By keef1234

January 13, 2009 11:17 AM | Link to this

VERY EXCITED! get Dunn and I will buy the MLB package!

By Allen

January 13, 2009 11:17 AM | Link to this

Get it out of your head that he’s an ACE. He’s a #2 at best. Of course now we have a bunch of #2’s and 3’s which should play out very nicely. If Hudson returns, then we’ll have #1 or maybe #2+. Good job Mr. Wren! I look for him to make another move or two.

By The 3rd

January 13, 2009 11:18 AM | Link to this

Love It! I was hoping that we would sign Lowe instead of Burnett. Dude is a horse! After the past couple of seasons with injuries we need a someone like Lowe on the mound. Great job Wren! Now get us a bat in the outfield!

By Seagles

January 13, 2009 11:18 AM | Link to this

The Braves are lost.

By Jersey Gil

January 13, 2009 11:18 AM | Link to this

Good Job Mr. Wren, now we need a lefty, Get that trade done for Maholm of the Pirate. Doesn’t hurt get to much Pitching.

By Lowcountry Bulldawg

January 13, 2009 11:18 AM | Link to this

I like Lowe and his health for 60 mil over Burnette annd his health for 82 mil.

By hanz

January 13, 2009 11:19 AM | Link to this

Very good signing. I think Lowe is a reliable pitcher. Great pick up!

By TheDunderChief

January 13, 2009 11:19 AM | Link to this

Well this is very good, especially now we have some possible trade bait with Jo Jo and Morton. Very cool.

By John

January 13, 2009 11:20 AM | Link to this

Will all of you worthless whiners that b*** about Smoltz leaving just drop it! He LEFT……we did NOT run him out of the door! Let me get this straight…..we paid him FOURTEEN MILLION to play in SIX games last year. I think the guy should be happy to take 2.5 million. Hes TRYING to come back from his FIFTH freaking MAJOR surgery people! Dont get me wrong Smoltz will forever be my favorite Brave but hes the one that left us NOT the other way around!!

By darren

January 13, 2009 11:21 AM | Link to this

for all those complaining about smoltz…did you ever ask why he left for only 2 mill dollars….he’s only made 130 mill in Atlanta…it was smoltz who left…..I’ll bet anybody on this board lowe wins more games and pitches more innings than smoltz…..you all are saying lowe is 35…hello smoltz is 42…..get over it….were a better team with lowe pitching all year than smoltz for 2-3 months….this is a great move, much rather have lowe for 15 mill the burnett (hurt by the allstartbreak for 15 mill) belive me wren knows more about baseball than we do and do you really think shurholtz isnt doing any gm duties?

By Rhett

January 13, 2009 11:21 AM | Link to this

Money-wise it’s a little steep, but Lowe’s proven that he’s one of the most durable pitchers out there and he should be a perfect fit in the locker room. Wren is slowly but surely wiping the egg from his face…. If he picks up a slugging outfielder, it will have been a solid offseason despite the inauspicious start.

By The Dude

January 13, 2009 11:21 AM | Link to this

Over paid a little, but we needed him to compete this year. He’s a reliable starter that we are going to have to put runs on the board for him to win. Desperatly need a run producer in the outfield.

On another note. Go look up our new Japanese pitcher on Youtube. The guy looks to have really good stuff. He doesn’t throw that hard, but his location is good and has a nasty curve and change. Cutter looked good too.

By JS

January 13, 2009 11:21 AM | Link to this

Good move…this guy can be unhittable (no hitter for Boston) Throws lots of ground balls and eats innings. Get a corner outfielder and things may be looking up!

By BrandonC

January 13, 2009 11:21 AM | Link to this

Here we go with the Smoltz rants again. It’s already getting old. Smoltz wasn’t going to pitch until June at the EARLIEST. You want to gaurantee him more than the Sox even if he’s missing 1/3 of the season? Give me a break. I’m just as dissapointed as the next about losing Smoltz, but HE’S the one that made the decision, not Frank Wren. Wren has added 3 quality arms in one offseason and has done it with people up in arms calling for him to be fired. Give the man a break already…

Lowe is 5-6 years younger that Smoltz and isn’t coming off of major shoulder surgery.

By Eyeteach

January 13, 2009 11:21 AM | Link to this

I won’t sleep until the ink is dry on the contract. Hope this guy doesn’t pull out and go to the Muts or some where else.

By brent a.

January 13, 2009 11:21 AM | Link to this

This a lot better than AJ (“Contract Year”) Burnett.

By jasonV

January 13, 2009 11:22 AM | Link to this

It all looks great on paper, right? Well last year was the best team on paper Atlanta had in a long long time, right? Only difference is, no injury plauged players! Bye Hampton, Smoltzy no matter how well you pitch you’ll never get run support! In reality they probly wont win this year, but I belive that next year will dawn a new era in Atlanta. The H.H.H. era, Hanson, Hayward, and Hernandez!!!

By lyuff

January 13, 2009 11:23 AM | Link to this

Finally some good news!

By Robbie T

January 13, 2009 11:23 AM | Link to this

Starting pitching now in good shape.However i don’t agree with needing only one outfield bat.A guy that can hit for power and average is needed in left and right field.And an upgrade from last year in center field would help also.A little speed at the top of the order also.

By SCOTT

January 13, 2009 11:23 AM | Link to this

I would like to see The BRAVES do more but this will help keep fans in the seats at turner field

By Scoots

January 13, 2009 11:23 AM | Link to this

$60 Million is overpaying, but I suppose it’s what had to be done. Lowe is not shutdown, but a solid pitcher that will give us alot of innings. I think this starting pitching lineup could turn out pretty good if everything holds, with Hanson coming up at some point and Hudson returning by the end of the year.

It’s still been a bad offseason, but thing are turning around. A solid outfielder with a big bat is still sorely needed. Getting Abreau would be a great move - if Wren can land him or Dunn, I can forgive him for the Smoltz thing

By getnathan

January 13, 2009 11:24 AM | Link to this

Still need a power bat to contend with Mets and Phillies. If somehow they could re-open talks to acquire Peavy and stick him at the top of the rotation, that would allow flexibility to let Hanson develop, and use the other young pitchers in a trade. Michael Young is on the block. Maybe Braves could swing 3 way deal to get him AND Peavy

By Accboys15

January 13, 2009 11:24 AM | Link to this

As a life long Braves fan 40 years. I think the Braves should of used this year as a rebuilding one. Now they are locked in to all the free money they had available for a couple of years. Yes Lowe is depenable, but is he a $15 millon a year pitcher. Is Vazquez a $ 11 millon a year pitcher. What is the salary of Kawakami ? I honestly think the Braves and all true Brave fans would of understand Wren stating we are going to rebuild this year. Let the young guys deveople another year and keep the money to spend next year.

By JR

January 13, 2009 11:25 AM | Link to this

We all know he is not a number one starter, but we had to make a move to be competitive in the east. The thing is, Lowe is a solid pick up, but Atlanta is agreat choice for him besides the obvious money issue. He is a sinkerballer and Atlanta has a big ball park with a solid infield. Not sure Dunn is a great pickup, but we have got to have a big bat in the outfield. Even if Frenchy recovers he’s not that big bat presence that a championship team needs. If Dunn is affordable then get him, if not then make a one year offer to Abreu, who knows he might take it at this point.

Also, I am not angry with Frank Wren for his inability to get deals done in the off season. I would say he has done a C+ job on that, but what angers me is the comments he made in the interview about the “average” fan. If he does not get the fans to put their behinds in the seats then he will understand more about the “average fan”

By Are you guys on something

January 13, 2009 11:27 AM | Link to this

Is there a reason you guys think the braves will actually contend in 09? Are starting lineup sucks, and the stats of our starting pitchers are middle of the road at best. 65-70 wins if were lucky.

By A Brave Blunder

January 13, 2009 11:27 AM | Link to this

So let’s get this straight. In Lowes’ 4th year with the Braves he will be 39 years old and that time we are going to pay him 15 mil but at 42 we weren’t willing to pay Smoltz 5 mil. Did I miss something?

By Chris

January 13, 2009 11:29 AM | Link to this

I don’t think that Lowe is going to go out and set the world on fire with Ks and be that Jake Peavy type ace that the fans wanted.

HOWEVER - I’m perfectly ok with that. The power of the Braves just became pitching - again. Grant it no “ace” but lots of innings eaters and good innings eaters at that. If Lowe and Vasquez both drop 215 innings and a 4.00 era, then Kawakami is good for 170 and a 4.00 with Jurrjens going 185 and a 3.8, then we will be in 1st place at the end. You can still throw Hanson, Campillo, Morton, and Hudson into that mix as well.

The reason that this rotation will be good is because the bullpen won’t get burned. How many times in the past 3 years have we gone to the pen in the 4th or 5th and killed Reitsma and others? That just ended.

By Vol4ever

January 13, 2009 11:29 AM | Link to this

I’ve been very critical of Wren and the Braves. The signing of Low and the Japanese player shows he is trying to get something done, give him credit for that after the disaster we have gone through in December. I agree like everyone else we now need a bat in the outfield and I hope it is not Andrew Jones. I’m over the Smoltz thing he is an icon but he got 14 million to do nothing last year and over 100 million in his career. Smoltz was the Braves during his era. John could have made close to what the Sox were offering so be it he moved on.

By GermanBravesFan

January 13, 2009 11:29 AM | Link to this

For those who keep mentioning Hudson for next season: keep in mind that the EARLIEST he will be back is August. Do you think that he will be right back to the old Tim Hudson? I believe IF he comes back, he may only be back for the last six weeks of the season. How many starts will he be able to make during that time? Also, Kawakami and Jurrjens have not pitched a whole lot of innings in one season… I sure hope they can pitch close to 200 innings next season. Nevertheless… I am more excited than I was last week!! With a rotation of: Lowe, Jurrjens, Vazquez, Kawakami, and one of the following: Campillo/Reyes/Morton/Hanson/Parr/Glavine - I think the Braves will be alright. Any thoughts on possibly trading one or two of the young pitchers for an outfielder? This could then still leave money for one more player (starting pitcher or another bat)…

By RC

January 13, 2009 11:29 AM | Link to this

I like the move. A little to much money, but that’s what you get when you hire out of house. We need a front of the rotation starter. We got it and we get a veteran presence to replace the S word. I am a little confused how we handle all of the back end of the rotation starters we have though. If we sign Glavine and Hudson comes back, we will have to move Morton,Jo Jo and maybe Campillo to make room for Hanson.

By DCbrave

January 13, 2009 11:29 AM | Link to this

Four years, 60 mil, somewhat overpayed, but it is what took to sign him and I like it. Kudos to Frank on this one. Now, we finally have an “excellent rotation.”

By Tomy Fournier

January 13, 2009 11:29 AM | Link to this

WELL PEOPLE…IT’S BETTER THAN NOTHING…AND REMEMBER…FOR THE NEXT YEARS…(WELL…NOT MORE “MORON COX”) WE WILL BE THE BEST TEAM IN THE LEAGUE….HOPE WITH MR. “MORON COX” OUT!!!!

By Jeremy Loria

January 13, 2009 11:33 AM | Link to this

Call me crazy, but I think the Braves should go after Ben Sheets now. Offer one year with option for second. Knowing that Hudson is out all 2009, then they could have a choice between the two for 2010 when Hanson would be ready for a full season. So rotation could be Lowe, Vazquez, JJ, Hanson, Hudson or Sheets, not that order.

By Daybed Wagmoe

January 13, 2009 11:35 AM | Link to this

I’m not as worried that, at 35, Lowe’s best year are behind him. I’m more worried that he’ll blow his arm out not too far into his contract (i.e., by his second year in Atlanta) and the Braves will be left with a huge hole in their rotation. I hope that doesn’t happen, and given his durability and ability to pitch 199 innings each year for the past seven seasons (or whatever it is), we can expect 32-35 starts a year from him. I just hope that his luck doesn’t run out…

The next “ace” in Atlanta is going to be either Jair Jurrjens or Tommy Hanson. Lowe will be our #1 starter, and he’ll be good…I’m not sure about him being an “ace,” though.

By same ol thing

January 13, 2009 11:36 AM | Link to this

Gesh get off the Peavy thing will ya. He does not want to be a Brave. Well he might now but oh well, to late. Move on to the outfield and anyone but Andruw.

By Dave

January 13, 2009 11:36 AM | Link to this

I would rather invest our money in a 36 year old healthy Lowe than a 42 unhealthy Smoltz. Bottom line by taking Lowe away from our main competitor we got better and kept them from being better than they are now. If you take a risk let it be on pitching. No doubt we took a big risk.

By Desibrave

January 13, 2009 11:36 AM | Link to this

How about trading Esco/KJ, Jo Jo, Morton for Peavy? Peavy shouldn’t have any complaints to pitch for Braves now..

I really LIKE

PEAVY, LOWE, JJ, KAWAKAMI, VASQUEZ rotation and Hudson later when we get to Playoffs :)

By Marc

January 13, 2009 11:37 AM | Link to this

This is a good move I think. I like this better than signing Burnett anyway. I think we needed a pitcher to provide some stabillity over the next few years while we develop our future arms. If Hanson turns out to be a dud and Morton/Reyes can’t get over their hurdles; we can take up Hudson’s 1 year extension and have a decent rotation next year as well.

Then after that Javy and Huddy are both off the payroll and we have money to lock up the proven talent. A good strategy on paper. We’ll see how it all works out in the end. If we traded for any new bats I’d aim for Nady or Brian Roberts. Otherwise just try to sign a 1 year rental and our OF prospects should be set next season and beyond.

By DCbrave

January 13, 2009 11:37 AM | Link to this

I said all along, only overpaying can get him here, 4 years 60 mil is overpaying, and apparently even Omar did not want to pay Lowe that much for that long. But we need him, and hopefully he can give us at least 2-3 years of good pitching. We now have a pseudoAce.

By Hawes

January 13, 2009 11:37 AM | Link to this

I suppose Lowe was the second best FA starter after Sabathia in terms of durability and ability.

But that fourth year smells of overpaying.

If Frenchy comes back, Chipper stays healthy… Maybe we compete, if we can remember how.

By McPoyle

January 13, 2009 11:38 AM | Link to this

i really like where this rotation is headed for ‘09, and especially in 2010. a power bat, or at least a run producer is still desperately needed in the middle though. you know chipper is going to miss 20-30 games at least, and Mac can’t play every day behind the plate. add one stick, and this team will be a force this year. they’re solid as is right now, but to compete in the NL East alone, with the offenses of the phils and mets, we need a run producer.

By Dan_in_NC

January 13, 2009 11:38 AM | Link to this

Guys, I look at it this way…

Look at how much Smoltz gave us from age 35 to last year? He did quite a bit in the past 5-6 years. That said, I think if you ask most people when ranking the all-time greats, you would find John Smoltz and Derek Lowe on a similar level from each other.

Listen, I was as disappointed as anybody when it became reality that John Smoltz was gone, but if he was in the same shoes that Derek Lowe is now in, we would have asked for our GM to do the same thing.

Personally I look for Hudson to lose some of his stuff whenever he returns. He always looked like he had a good but fragile type or arm. The signing of Lowe not only shows that we want to contend in the NL East but it’s also a signing that will lead to the passing of the torch in four years when Hanson becomes our stud.

By GermanBravesFan

January 13, 2009 11:38 AM | Link to this

How about offering Sheets $2 million for one year? I guess the Braves can now take a gamble…

By Frozen Ropes Albany

January 13, 2009 11:39 AM | Link to this

I’m actually pretty happy with that deal. Lowe can handle the top of the rotation and while he isn’t a true ACE in the Hamels/Santana mode, I do think that he could pitch against those guys and keep things close. I’d really like to see Andruw back on a 1 year deal for the cheap and sign a LF for the 4th spot. Dunn seems like the best fit, Abreau would be the backup plan (even though he’s not a 4 hitter).

Once Schafer is ready, he can fill in for Andruw if he’s not up to par. Hanson should be able to come up for the stretch run and fill in nicely in the 5th spot.

By Reality Time

January 13, 2009 11:40 AM | Link to this

I think it’s a good deal, such a good deal that I think the morons who run this webpage should have put it on the front page, instead of the picture of a smiling John Smoltz. I liked John Smoltz and what he did for the Braves, but for God’s sake he made the decision to go. If incentive pay bothered him instead of guaranteed money, that means he had serious questions as to whether he could perform. He made a lot last year that he didn’t earn, as well as in years past when he couldn’t perform. Not his fault, but it is what it is. Please don’t compare to Hampton, not same thing. Hampton was paid because team had no choice it was a contractual obligation. I doubt if they would have tried to resign him if he was still rehabilitating. Happy John got his money, but he is a Red Sox now, I am concerned about the Braves. Get your priorities straight AJC, Smoltz leaving was front page a week ago, Lowe is front page today.

By David

January 13, 2009 11:40 AM | Link to this

World Series here we come!!!!!!!!!!!

GO BRAVES!!!

By GermanBravesFan

January 13, 2009 11:40 AM | Link to this

For those who think the Braves overpaid: at the beginning of the off-season, some people thought Lowe might get 5 years at $18 million per year…

By Kris in NC

January 13, 2009 11:40 AM | Link to this

I am sitting here, shaking my head at some of the comments that some of you all are making. Calling for Frank Wren’s head because he wouldn’t offer Smoltz a couple of more millions but would pay $15M to Lowe. Smoltz won’t be able to pitch until at least June where as Lowe probably is going to be Opening Day Starter.

Lowe is going to be 40 when his contract is over, yet you wanted Wren to give a couple of more million to a guy who is already over 40, come on guys, we needed someone who was going to pitch at the beginning of the season not June or July. Red Sox have “guaranteed” Smoltz he would be in the Starting Rotation when he returns, who does he bump out? Who knows what the Braves saw in that medical report that made them a little gun shy to give him a couple of million more?

We got Lowe and Ken K in a matter of a few days, we should be thrilled that Wren didn’t sit on his butt, he went out and got us two more pitchers for our rotation. If you don’t like it, find another team to cheer for such as the Red Sox since Smoltz is there.

Welcome to Atlanta Derek.

By submariner

January 13, 2009 11:41 AM | Link to this

Why not Sheets! We carried that bum Hampton forever and a day and payed him $42 million in the process to sit on his butt. A 1 year deal for Sheets seems a pretty safe gamble.

By DCbrave

January 13, 2009 11:42 AM | Link to this

Personally I actually feel better overpaying Lowe than overpaying Burnett.

By rw2112

January 13, 2009 11:42 AM | Link to this

Let’s drop the Smoltz thing! I loved the guy and wish he was coming back, but he LEFT! He left to chase a ring. He just couldn’t come out and say it. If the Pirates or Padres offered him the same deal he would be in Atlanta. Smoltz wants another ring. Good for him. Wren is no guilty here. He made a really fair offer to a guy that comes with no guarantee that he will pitch at the major league level again. Lowe was a good sign. Maybe a little high priced but it would be nice to have a pitcher hit 200+ innings for us again. I know the bullpen will be happier. We have a solid rotation and didn’t give up half the minor league system to get it. Cheer people. Sheesh. We should also try to sign Andruw if he will come cheap. That is a ton of talent that if it turns around is 30+ dingers and much better defense for very little $$$. I remember how everybody acted when we signed Burkett. He did alright and I think Andruw will too.

Let the Smoltz thing rest. Go Braves!!!!

By Chris

January 13, 2009 11:43 AM | Link to this

Lowe is a quality starter that would have been our #5 in the 90’s or might have made the bullpen. We are going to rely on him to be our ace?

Couldn’t spare a few mil to keep an icon and community leader like Smoltz around? Even if he never throws another pitch(he absolutely will)the money should have been a thanks for all he has done and the huge discounts he has given Atlanta in his past contracts.

No left handed starter on the horizon? I can’t bear to watch Jo Jo pitch one more game.

I remember how bad most of the 70’s and 80’s were and the Braves look to be headed straight into some of the worst moves we have seen as fans in recent memory.

By Don

January 13, 2009 11:43 AM | Link to this

QUICK — Now pay off our Pitching Coach’s Contract and sign a new P.C. — Don’ take a chance — Before we have another season where 4 out of 5 starters and almost all the projected bull pen went down to serious injuries.

By Wayne

January 13, 2009 11:43 AM | Link to this

FORGET ABOUT SMOLTZ. He chose to take THE MONEY and forego any sense of loyalty to the Braves or their fans. You know the saying, “Show Me The Money” It was a business decision on both ends. The Braves made a good offer for a pitcher that will not be ready to pitch until June or later.

SMOLTZ TOOK THE MONEY AND THE BETTER TEAM—period, end of story. He will be missed as a Brave.

By K Mac

January 13, 2009 11:45 AM | Link to this

Some of you guys that are still upset over Smoltz should lay some blame on him. He started setting the move up months ago. He has a big ego just like everyone else. He is more interested in keeping the all time post season records for wins than where he pitched. Boston may give him the chance.

And by the way, I remember the many times he broke down at the end of the season just when we needed him most. Lowe will be better than Smoltz and will hopefully pitch the whole season and earn his money.

By Mitch

January 13, 2009 11:46 AM | Link to this

We had to do this. The interesting thing is, the Braves philsophy has changed. If anyone read John S Book, Built To Win, Tommy Glavine wanted a four year deal in 2002 when he was 36, and John S didnt want to give it to him, feeling Tommy was too old, and could get injured by the end of the deal. Had John agreed to that deal, Tommy never would have left the Braves.

The Lowe signing does make me feel better about the rotation. Now, we have a potentially good rotation. Jair, Javier, and Lowe, can win us 15 or more games each. Hopefully the new Japanese guy can give us some wins, and if Tommy Glavine can come back, and win 10 to 12 games one more year, our rotation will be decent.

We really could use one more bat in the lineup. I’m not going to be unrealistic and say that the Lowe deal wins us the NL East, but, I do think we have a shot for 85 to 90 wins, and maybe a wild card.

We will need to find another starting pitcher if Tommy cant come back, but that seems minor now. My bet, is that Tommy will make it back, and just maybe, this team that we’ve all been complaining about all winter, wont be half bad.

By getnathan

January 13, 2009 11:46 AM | Link to this

I’d rather have old farmhand Jermaine Dye than Adam Dunn. Dunn strikes out a lot and we have enough lefty hitters in the lineup. Don’t want another Graeme Lloyd coming in to shut us down. We could stick Dye in the #4 hole between Chipper and McCann/Francoeur/Kotchman

By 35YrBravesFan

January 13, 2009 11:48 AM | Link to this

I’m happy.

GO BRAVOS!!!

By rhays

January 13, 2009 11:49 AM | Link to this

this is the guy we should have targeted first anyway, after the peavy deal fell through. more reliable and less of an injury threat than burnett. good for the braves, now frank go get a 30 homer 100 rbi guy and lets go take back what rightfully belongs to atlanta…..the East.

By Steve Parker

January 13, 2009 11:49 AM | Link to this

Any boneheads out there thinking this team could have gotten by without another quality starter, well, you’re boneheads. Let’s see … go into the season with Vazquez, Jurrjens and flip a coin? I really don’t think so. Sure, if you’re announcing on the front-end that you’re punting the season away, then great, give Lowe to the Mets. If you intend to contend, his signing is absolutely, positively vital. And, gee, you guys suddenly think baseball players, even 35-year-old ones, are overpaid? Wow, did you wake up yesterday? Imagine … an “overpaid” baseball player. Who could dream up such nonsense? Add a solid outfielder to the mix (Abreu, Dunn … yeah, I know he strikes out a lot, but we’ve been a three-run-homer-waiting-to-happen team for years) and get on with the business of locking up Ohman. No, I don’t think we’re winning any divisions this year, but it could be a contender. What more do we want after the last three years of frustrating ball? The moves are sound and, if we’re lucky enough to avoid a waiting room’s worth of injuries, we must might contend. Too much money on baseball players! Now, THAT’S a good one!

By Pete

January 13, 2009 11:49 AM | Link to this

With no competition out there, why did we offer $60M? Granted, I’d rather spend $60M on Lowe than $82M on Burnett, but it just seems like we overpaid here.

Look at Lowe’s home road splits over the last 3 years: Home - 2.95 ERA, 1.10 WHIP Away - 4.24 ERA, 1.35 WHIP

It’s a little concerning that Lowe’s stats over the past three years seem to be padded by pitching in a pitcher’s park (plus extra games each year in SF & SD, also pitcher’s parks).

Something else to chew on: vs. 1-8 hitters: .269/.340/.388 & 1 K every 6.7 AB vs. #9 hitter: .102/.130/.134 & 1 K every 2.3 AB

Now I realize that the #9 hitter is generally a gimme, but his numbers against the 1-8 hitters certainly don’t scream “Pay me like a #1 starter!”

At the end of the day, I’d rather have Lowe in my rotation than Reyes or Morton, I just wish we hadn’t spent so much money on him, especially considering we appeared to be the only team bidding and willing to add a big contract. I’m hoping the addition of Lowe and Kawakami allow the moves to move Reyes and/or Morton for some help in LF.

By Fan

January 13, 2009 11:50 AM | Link to this

Braves will go down since losing Smoltz……they will not win any….. Will be going for Boston Red Socks Now!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By nelson

January 13, 2009 11:51 AM | Link to this

NICE JOB WREN !! bye bye smoltz !!!

lowe

jurrjens

vazquez

kawakami

hanson or glavine

oh man !! i loveit !!!braves nl east champs 2009

adam dunn next ..

By Father of 5

January 13, 2009 11:51 AM | Link to this

This is a move done in desperation that never would have happened without front office regret over nickel and diming Smoltz. Wren might sleep at night by telling himself he “did all he could do” to sign Smoltz, but this move proves that he knows that his spin is not true.

Lowe is solid 3rd starter but, if you plan on using him as the ace, you better not plan on seeing the postseason (so his “big game” value gets washed down the drain). Vasquez is a 4th starter (way overpaid at 11M and costing us a top catcher and valuable ss), so now the Braves just have to find an ace and a #2 guy. And a few more bats. And some speed. Good-luck with that.

By BravesFan79

January 13, 2009 11:51 AM | Link to this

Alright… this defenitly gives us a chance to be in the race until July to not allow Smoltz to come back till to give us that TRUE ACE for a 2nd half run…. WOOPS!! Well i guess we fcked that up huh…. If we do get to the playoffs tho, a rotation of Lowe, JJ, and Hanson defenitly has potential.

By Supes

January 13, 2009 11:52 AM | Link to this

N8 Come on now, Lowe and Peavy will have the same numbers when the season is over? Not a fair comparison given how inept the Padre’s lineup is right now. They may fail to score 3 runs per game most of the time when Jake Peavy is on the mound, how many wins will that be exactly?

You look at ERA, innings pitched and K’s. I guarantee you that Jake Peavy will have better numbers when the year is over in 2009 than Lowe.

Frank Wren, good job on acquiring a SOLID number 2 Starter. Everyone who think’s Lowe is an ACE should turn in your “comment card” right now. Lowe is not someone that “anchors” a staff. At least not up until now. Maybe he will prove everyone wrong (like me) and do it for the 1st time here in ATL but I’ll have to see it 1st!

Jake Peavy is still within reach and Frank Wren should swallow his pride, pick up the phone during spring training and make the deal using Morton/Esco and one of our B level minor league guys and swing the deal.

A rotation of Peavy, Lowe, Jair, Javier and Kawasaki sounds good. That way they can start Hanson in AAA at the beginning, and if anyone goes down bring him up about mid-season to the bigs.

Now that is a rotation that will put the Braves back in the mix of the NL East.

No Peavy - No dominant number 1 starter - No NL East title. Simple as that. Look at the Phillies…have a clear dominant 1 - Cole Hamels, Mets have Johan. Braves have…yeah (our guy won’t be back at the EARLIEST in August - Tim Hudson) and Lowe is an unproven 1 starter!

By 96,sc

January 13, 2009 11:55 AM | Link to this

Great!!!!!!!!

By Joe Fumei

January 13, 2009 11:56 AM | Link to this

HAS HE ACTUALLY SIGNED THE CONTRACT OR WILL WE BE USED AGAIN AS IN THE CASE OF BENEDICT FURCAL?

By Wayne

January 13, 2009 11:56 AM | Link to this

ONE ACE DOES NOT A WINNER MAKE.

Give me 5 good pitchers that can win 12-15 games and I’ll give you a winning team. You can not win anything with one so called ace. Pitching is the name of the game, with a few bats, not a pitcher.

Need another bat. Dunn strikes out a lot, but 40+ home runs and 100+ rbis will make up for a lot of strikeouts.

By BamaBrave

January 13, 2009 11:57 AM | Link to this

I’m starting to feel a little better…but it’s all about the injuries, or lack thereof…

Get Dunn. Sign Sheets. Sign Andruw.

By Cardog10

January 13, 2009 11:58 AM | Link to this

I agree with Wayne, the offer we made wasn’t THAT bad to Smoltz. I will always love him, I think he wanted to do something different in his last couple of years. I am starting to heal… Lowe, Jurrjens, Kawakami, Vasquez, Hanson I’ll take that over Smoltz, Glavine, Hampton, Jurrjens, Jojo Reyes/Morton/James

Now lets add on a power hitting outfielder, we still have money to spend, so they better spend it.

Hold us together Chipper! If they don’t treat you with respect in the contract year I will never go to another Braves game again.

By sane jane

January 13, 2009 11:58 AM | Link to this

I’ll take Lowe’s durable B++ stuff over Peavy’s brittle A- stuff any day. Plus, Lowe is playoff-proven. (not that the Braves are contenders yet)

The Smoltz thing bothered me a bunch at first, but the more I think about it, the more OK with it I am. He got paid 14 mil last year for 28 innings. Did he really need to be “shown the love”? I’d say a make-good (on his part) was actually due…

By Eric B

January 13, 2009 11:58 AM | Link to this

I like the move…Lowe should be solid for the next 2-3 years imo and while we may have overpaid slightly theres probably less of a health risk with the 35 yr old Lowe than we would have with the equally over priced yet younger Burnett.

By P. Rose

January 13, 2009 11:59 AM | Link to this

Of course this makes the Braves better. Lowe, Vazquez, Kawakami, Jurjens, Hanson - there’s a decent 5-man rotation. By the way, Smoltz looks ridiculous in a Boston cap. Smoltzie, I know you’re not reading this blog anymore, because after being adored by the faithful Atlanta fans for 21 years you’re all Mr. Boston now, and you’ve surely forgotten us already. But, unlike so many others on this blog, I don’t blame Frank Wren for your departure. I blame you. You have pocketed $130 million in salary from this team over your career, including $14 million last year to throw 28 innings. That’s $500,000 per inning. And the Braves finished in fourth place. So apparently you are not the key ingredient to this team’s success, as you obviously believe you are. The Braves offered you a fair contract in which you would have made the same money this year the Sox are paying you, if you stayed healthy and performed well. You basically rejected your home town team and your fans for a lousy $3 million more - extra money you will make * only if you can’t pitch!* Knowing how badly the Braves need fresh arms after last year’s debacle with the despicable Mike Hampton, Tim Hudson now injured and the over-taxed bullpen, you of all people should have been willing to concede a little for the team. But, as we all know, “this is a business” (as we all keep hearing, ad nauseum.) You were “disrespected” by the Braves. Well, boo hoo hoo. Poor little Smoltzie. You are a very, very, very rich man. All of your money came from the pockets of the good fans of Atlanta, and 99.9% of us can never even dream of ever attaining the kind of wealth you’ve attained. All we ask is a little loyalty. But all you can think about is yourself. It’s like a divorce, when both spouses refuse to give an inch for their pride, but neither ever gives one ounce of consideration to the kids. Well, Frank Wren is the daddy, and you, Smoltzie, are the mommy, and we fans are the kids. We are the ones who will have to suffer for your pride. You could have retired here and been elected mayor of Atlanta. You could have had Peachtree Street renamed after you. But you took the easy money instead. You should be ashamed, but of course you’re not. Your kind never is. Here’s hoping you fail in Boston, and they have to pay you your $5 million for doing nothing. Enjoy that money. Your ex-fans will be down here rooting for the Braves as usual. And when you enter the Hall of Fame as a Brave we’ll welcome you back with open arms, of course, because the fans in Atlanta have class. You don’t deserve us.

By Todd

January 13, 2009 12:00 PM | Link to this

Great deal….Lowe is an innings eater and should be great for the Braves….I see the rotation as 1)Lowe 2)Jurrjens 3)Vasquez 4)Kawakami 5)Hanson Looks like a solid group to me.

By Poorbrave

January 13, 2009 12:01 PM | Link to this

Was part of the deal that we had to take Andruw Jones back? No to Jones.

By getnathan

January 13, 2009 12:02 PM | Link to this

FROZEN ROPES - I don’t think Hamels is a great pitcher. he’s very good, but not up there with Santana (Braves have handled both pitchers fairly well). Lowe can pitch right along with them. Dye’s right handed bat can counter those lefties.

It will come down to the bullpens. Mets and Phillies have uberclosers. Ours is no slouch either (Gonzalez). That would give us two lefties in the pen (Logan being the other).

By MJ

January 13, 2009 12:03 PM | Link to this

A quality starter and at this point, a deal that had to be made. There was no other choice wether anyone likes it or not. Lowe was the best option left, but it is a very good option, and if he pitches like he has the last 5 seasons than the Braves should be fine.

Plus now the Braves have options and can gamble on Glavine if they so choose. And they still have money to spend on the OF, Ohman and arbitration guys. 1 or 2 more additions and the Braves should be set. I do not think it is still the calibur of the Mets or Phillies based on what the lineup will be b/c scoring runs at this point looks to be a problem and until that problem is solved the Braves are still the 3rd best team in the division. But this is a step in the right direction. Good job Wren! Even thoug you mucked up the Smoltz deal, you redeamed yourself here.

By Larry J

January 13, 2009 12:06 PM | Link to this

Glad to see the Braves finally spent some of the money that they told us they had ready for free agency.

This still doesn’t excuse the fact that Frank Wren and company were too cheap to spend an extra couple of million to keep John Smoltz here.

By Coastal

January 13, 2009 12:07 PM | Link to this

Sign Sheets to a 1 year $5 mil contract and give Manny 2 years at $40 mil.

By jg

January 13, 2009 12:07 PM | Link to this

Sorry until the Braves get some Dominicans they won’t go very far!!!

By Finally

January 13, 2009 12:08 PM | Link to this

All you complaining about giving 15M for Lowe and only 2.5M (possibility of 10M if healthy) for Smoltz, chew on this: 2008 Derrick Lowe 211 innings pitched, Johns Smoltz 28

By Coastal

January 13, 2009 12:10 PM | Link to this

and I swear, if I hear Andruw Jones’ name one more time, i’m going to start clubbin baby seals. Not only has Jones fallen off the face of the earth as far as production, but he left Atlanta(the place that made him a superstar) for more money. A. Jones and Glavine can go fornicate themselves.

By Man from Flanders

January 13, 2009 12:11 PM | Link to this

Derek Lowe is a solid #2 (#1 if he pitches like his final 10 starts last year). He is continuously healthy. Yes, the Braves slightly overpaid for him, but I believe it was necessary for the sign him now, no delays or back and forth or bidding wars, type of signing. I am not mad about it either because he will be a rock in the middle of the rotation for the next few years. Good signing by Wren IMO. The rotation as it stands Lowe, Jurrjens, Vazquez, Kawakami, Morton or Campillo. No true standouts, but every bit as solid top to bottom as anyone in the NL East.

By John J.

January 13, 2009 12:12 PM | Link to this

This is ridiculous!!!! What is Wren thinking? He passed up on Smoltz and then signed a 35 year old for FOUR YEARS and 60 million!!! I smell another Hampton in the future!!!!

By Matt

January 13, 2009 12:14 PM | Link to this

I think it is a good deal. They had to do something. Looking forward to seeing how the rotation shakes out once the season starts.

By Supes

January 13, 2009 12:17 PM | Link to this

Hamels not a “great pitcher”? What the frak, didn’t he just pitch the Phillies to a WS title or what? Some of you have “selective memories”.

Cole Hamels is one of the top 10 starters in the game. So is Johan. When they are “both on” they are dominating!

Braves do not have such a starter on the current roster.

Jake Peavy is still out there…Padres are desperate, maybe they pick up the phone and call Wren during Spring Training, does it matter. If the Braves are serious about contending for the NL East This Year - bring Jake Peavy to the ATL to be our ACE!

By mookie

January 13, 2009 12:18 PM | Link to this

Now let’s go and get Peevy, Dunn and Hudson and we will contend next year!!

By GT

January 13, 2009 12:19 PM | Link to this

Losing Smoltz isn’t a reason to overspend on something else.

So what happens this time next year after the Braves have again finished 4th in the division, and we have no payroll flexibility, because our #1 starter still is 36 years old and still has 3 years and $45M remaining on his contract.

Wren is such a loser. He’s a worthy successor to Schurholz, who also liked to overspend on has beens.

This Lowe contract makes me long for the days of Mike Hampton on our roster.

By Dixie Dawg

January 13, 2009 12:19 PM | Link to this

well, Wren,

you look a little better today than you did yesterday. I’m still not completely convinced yet.

But, at least you’re trying to save face.

we’ll see how the season goes.

But we still need REAL owners!

By More Waste

January 13, 2009 12:20 PM | Link to this

More money wasted. Sign a 35 and 33 year old pitchers. Refuse to sign a former Cy Young, 200 win, 150 plus saves, team and city icon. Yup, the Braves are making a run at the 1970s and 80s again. Losersville is once more back in session. 14 straight playoff years, now to be followed by 14 straight Pittsburgh Pirates years. Oh, joy. Could we trade the GM for a class A player to be named later? First Sureholz screwed the pooch and now Winnie the Poo is screwing it up. Man, flash backs keep coming strong of the old, sad days of Braves baseball. Now maybe he’ll throw away a few billion for a 200 strikeout Adam Dunn. Then everything will be right with the loser Braves. What joke the Braves have become. No games for me this year or next or next or next or next or next or next or … .

By doyoustew

January 13, 2009 12:21 PM | Link to this

John Smoltz for $5-10MM, or Derek Lowe for $60MM…

Yeah…nice move…

By Reality

January 13, 2009 12:21 PM | Link to this

SIXTY MILLION and four years to a 35-year-old sinkerballer? Oh, man….Boras must be laughing his rear off right now. And for what? Someone who would be a #3 starter on almost any other team. So basically, the Braves replaced Smoltz/Hudson with Lowe/Vazquez. Not exactly an upgrade.

By getnathan

January 13, 2009 12:21 PM | Link to this

If we can get Sheets, than we don’t need to make a trade for Peavy, and we’ll have depth in the pitching staff if (or when) Sheets gets hurt. I think Sheets and a power hitter should be Braves next target to sign.

By jek

January 13, 2009 12:22 PM | Link to this

Hey,this is so much better than giving Burnett the deal he was offered. You know he was going to get hurt at least a couple of times a years. Lowe should deliver his usual 15 wins and 200 innings. Great move to solidify the rotation!

By Why Not Manny???

January 13, 2009 12:23 PM | Link to this

BRING ON MANNY!!! Why not have the complete zoo next season. Since the Braves are going to suck and suck and suck over the next few years, why not bring on Manny so that we can at least enjoy the zoo of Manny and Chipper fighting in the club house, Bobby trying to get between them and getting whacked with a bat. Yup, bring on Manny!!! We want Manny, we want the ZOO!!!!

By Billy

January 13, 2009 12:23 PM | Link to this

I’m not worried about Derek Lowe’s age at all. He’s a sinker-ball thrower, and they typically age pretty gracefully. I think the argument could easily be made that he has gotten better with age. I like this deal MUCH more than signing the injury-prone AJ Burnett for 5-years at $80 million.

As far as Smoltz goes… let it go, people. I have been a big fan of Smoltz since he pitched for the Richmond Braves (may they RIP), but after paying him $500k PER INNING last year (!!!!!), soon-to-be 42 year old John Smoltz simply wasn’t worth the risk.

GO BRAVES!

By geekboy

January 13, 2009 12:24 PM | Link to this

I would also add Dunn (for power), Randy Wolf (for a reliable lefty cheap), and Andruw (for old time’s sake).

If Frenchy comes out of his coma, Escobar continues to get better, Kotchman regains his stroke and Anderson does not completely tank in center … we have a good squad!

By 2010

January 13, 2009 12:27 PM | Link to this

Look to the 2010 season to be more successful. With Hudson back and JJ and Lowe, that could be a good 1,2,3. Those of you still p** about Smoltz need to get over it. If he wanted to stay in Atl. so bad he should’ve stayed, or retired. We’ve compensated him taking less to stay here by paying him when he was on the DL 11 times! We payed him 14 million last year for 5 starts!! HE’S BEEN COMPENSATED!!! The incentives were more easily attainable in Boston. He will make 10 million dollars for half a season. The Braves cannot afford to pay 10 million dollars for half season of work. Especially considering Hudson is out and we are not in the position to make the playoffs. GET OVER IT!!

By Bill

January 13, 2009 12:27 PM | Link to this

GREAT NEWS!Better than signing AJ Burnett Derek is a workhorse Hope they dont get Andrew Back Bill

By BL

January 13, 2009 12:28 PM | Link to this

LOVE THE SIGNING! this gives us plenty of depth and room for a trade, or signing of our bat, AND gives the Braves money to resign Chipper, and maybe Huddie love the move

Wren, i gotta hand it to you

By Mitch

January 13, 2009 12:28 PM | Link to this

Another thought: The Lowe deal could well mean that Glavine wont be back. Frank had… from what we were told, 30 to 40 mil to spend this winter? Lowe gets 15 mil of that, Vazquez another 11 to 12, and the Japanese guy gets some. Where is the money to sign Glavine? There’s no way that the Braves have the money to give Tommy 8 mil again. Additionally, are we still going to get a hitter? If so, unless we do so through trade, our resources are exhausted, folks.

Not only that, looking more long term: We now have Lowe locked up through 2012, and Vasquez for three years. Jair wont be eligible for arbitration for a couple of years, but, if Hudson comes back in August, and goes free agent next year, wheres the 15 mil we need to sign him?

Hopefully, Lowe, Vasquez, and Jair will be as advertised. I think we have a decent team. It will just be interesting to see where Glavine fits in this year, if at all, and what happens to Hudson after this. It wouldnt surprise me one bit, to see Glavine end up a teammmate in Boston, with his buddy Smoltz.

By huepa5

January 13, 2009 12:28 PM | Link to this

As excited as I am that the Braves are finalyl reconstructing the rotation, is there any concern that it appears with the projected rotation of Lowe, Jurrjens, Vasquez, Kawakami, (Campillo, Hanson, Glavine, Reyes, Parr) that we have a good poss of having an all RH rotation? Glavine could still make a case if he doesnt retire, and Reyes could maybe find some consistency that he has yet to show, but otherwise all are RH. How will we do against heavy hitting left handed teams (i.e. Phillies). Now i would rather focus the Braves focus the attn on getting a slugging LF, but wouldnt it be beneficial to look for another cheaper option lefty (Randy Wolf, and maybe too expensive but Oliver Perez)?

By Red Sox Fan

January 13, 2009 12:29 PM | Link to this

Thanks for Smoltz! D. Lowe was great when he was here in Boston…a few years ago.

$60 mill seems like alot for a guy on the back 9.

If he becomes Atlanta’s No.1 you may be in for a long season……….

By kirkinga

January 13, 2009 12:32 PM | Link to this

So let me get this straight. CC Sabathia signs for $160, Burnett gets like $82.5 million, it was ok to trade for Peavy who is owed $83 million, but $50 million is too much for Derek Lowe? Oh, and it’s not overpaying to give Smoltz(who we don’t know can still pitch well) $5.5 million for just showing up?

The Braves finally outbid at least one New York team and people are complaining?

Wren has done well, with more to do, if you’re a real Braves fan you would admit that.

By Braves20

January 13, 2009 12:33 PM | Link to this

Have liked this guy from the beginning. Gives us a solid although not spectacular rotation. Hey, Smoltz-Glavine-Maddux only come around once in a lifetime - ask an Indian’s fan from the 50’s.

Now, to get crazy, see what it would take to get Young from Texas and you have solved your right-handed bat problem. Who cares if that bat is in the infield or outfield. Look at the Yanks.

By McPoyle

January 13, 2009 12:33 PM | Link to this

“Now let’s go and get Peevy, Dunn and Hudson and we will contend next year!!”

haha yea, and let’s go get grady sizemore, and roy halladay, i heard brandon webb is on the market and while we’re at it let’s go after pujols! get real.
the braves are solid right now, they could use a bat and it’d be nice to sign ohman. otherwise, you’re dreaming

By McPoyle

January 13, 2009 12:35 PM | Link to this

“Thanks for Smoltz! D. Lowe was great when he was here in Boston…a few years ago.

$60 mill seems like alot for a guy on the back 9.”

talk about a guy who just teed off on hole 27… have you seen the prices for starting pitching these days? lowe’s back nine is better than a lot of others out there, and because of his pitching style he’s stayed healthy and produces a lot of innings. it’s all relative.

By The Artist Formerly Known as Too Hot For Teacher

January 13, 2009 12:37 PM | Link to this

why is that everyday i must remind people that Dunn isn’t the answer. You are going to pay 15 million for 1 .235-.240 30 hr, 90 rbi guy who plays defense like a brick wall.

I’d rather risk an Andruw (and maybe win back some fans?) maybe hitting .235 20 hr, 80rbi but can catch a fly ball for league minimum. It’s about returns on your investment people. Andruw and Dunn will give you similar results with about a 13.5 million difference in investment.

Personally I don’t want to see either one - I’d like to see an OF of Hernandez, Anderson, Blanco and Francouer (doing some rotating/platooning among all 4) - then give Hernandez, Anderson, Kelly, and Escobar the green light to run and cause havoc on the bases. Walks become doubles - the marlins did that a few years ago and won the WS. If that’s the case then 1-Anderson/Hernandez CF/lf (.270/5hr/50rbi/30sb) 2 - Escobar - ss (.285/15hr/80rbi/15sb) 3 chipper - 3b (.310/25hr/100rbi) 4 mccann - c (.300/25hr/100rbi - and even some SBs!) 5 - kotchman - 1b (.280/15hr/85rbi) 6 kelly johnson - 2b (.280/20hr/80rbi/15sb) 7 - Francouer - rf (.275/20hr/75rbi/5sb) 8 - Hernandez/Blanco - lf/cf (.270/5hr/50rbi/30sb)

that looks like a LOT of runs to me - not many homers but you’ve got a lot of guys in scoring position and scoring on base hits. You win at baseball with pitching and smallball (bunts, hit & run, sb)…..waiting on the HR gets you beat in the end.

I think the rotation is way above average/solid and will make the bullpen better bc it won’t be overused. Does Kawakami speak English or does McCann own Rosetta Stone?

By GT

January 13, 2009 12:37 PM | Link to this

I love all the “If” scenarios on this board that are spun as “will happen”…

If Francouer comes out of his slump… If there are no more injuries in the bullpen… If Vasquez pithces like he did 5 years ago… If we find a good outfielder… If Lowe pitches better than he has anytime in his career… If the Mets and Phillies don’t perform as well as they have the last couple seasons… If the Marlins are relegated to playing bad baseball, simply because they are in a bad baseball market…

Yes, I concede, if all these Ifs happen, maybe we don’t finish in the cellar next year. But how likely is this? Seriously?

Wren and Schurholz have delivered a team built for failure, and the only “If” worth talking about is “How does this franchise move forward, IF the inevitable happens next year?”

By Scott

January 13, 2009 12:38 PM | Link to this

I think it is a good move, rotation is solid and we still have Hudson, Glavine and Hanson in waiting to help out once the stretch run comes, if it comes.

Let’s sign Dunn and trade for Ankiel and go with this lineup:

Shafer/Blanco/Anderson Escobar Jones Dunn McCann Johnson Francouer Kotchman

By Mike Hampton

January 13, 2009 12:41 PM | Link to this

I love the deal! Maybe people will forget about my albatross contract and zero productivity.

By DannyFish

January 13, 2009 12:42 PM | Link to this

All of the people saying how mad they are because we did this out of desperation after losing Smoltz need to LOOK AT THE FACTS!!!

Lowe is 7 years younger…FACT

Smoltz is coming off of his 4TH major shoulder surgery…FACT

Lowe is a proven innings eater that has managed to stay fairly healthy…FACT

Why did we offer Lowe 15mil per and offer Smoltz 2.5 with incintives possibly bringin it to 7? Because Lowe is in position to be THAT MUCH BETTER this year. And unlike Smoltz we CAN depend on him.

By oldmike

January 13, 2009 12:42 PM | Link to this

DOB Is there any truth to rumors we are pursuing Jermaine Dye?

By singndablues

January 13, 2009 12:42 PM | Link to this

Boston has taken a much bigger gamble with Smoltz than we have with Lowe. Smoltz, how many surgery’s? The odds are better that Smoltz will break down again this year and be done as a pitcher. I’m a big Smoltz fan but the team actually made a good decision to part ways.

Lowe should still have some good years left.

By Quick

January 13, 2009 12:44 PM | Link to this

Be sweet to see Abreu or Dunn come along with these two pitchers. seems as though our eye for talent is not as keen as once before, ie; C. Jones, V. Castilla, J. Lopez, S. Avery, etc. Guys coming up thru the Braves farm system. So its like with a few exceptions, J. Francour, B. McCann, B. Schafer, (all position players) we’ve abandoned our farm talent. I love veteran additions, but its nice to see pitchers that come thru the ranks and not get traded away. Anyways…good pickup, lookin for a good season and some nice Met and Philly upsets this year (we owe Philly big time for last season) and thanks to P. Rose right above me for a true analysis of the Smoltz situation. Smoltzie, you didnt have to go. But you HAD to have that extra few million. Nest egg must be gettin low from all those high priced tee times. Good riddence.

By Quick

January 13, 2009 12:44 PM | Link to this

Be sweet to see Abreu or Dunn come along with these two pitchers. seems as though our eye for talent is not as keen as once before, ie; C. Jones, V. Castilla, J. Lopez, S. Avery, etc. Guys coming up thru the Braves farm system. So its like with a few exceptions, J. Francour, B. McCann, B. Schafer, (all position players) we’ve abandoned our farm talent. I love veteran additions, but its nice to see pitchers that come thru the ranks and not get traded away. Anyways…good pickup, lookin for a good season and some nice Met and Philly upsets this year (we owe Philly big time for last season) and thanks to P. Rose right above me for a true analysis of the Smoltz situation. Smoltzie, you didnt have to go. But you HAD to have that extra few million. Nest egg must be gettin low from all those high priced tee times. Good riddence.

By VAROADRUNNER

January 13, 2009 12:44 PM | Link to this

I think it’s great. I’m not sure if Lowe is a legitimate ACE or not, but he is certainly a proven and consistent starter that has “winning” experience. The rotation, all of a sudden, won’t be one that visiting teams look forward to facing. I hope to see Hanson either out of spring training or when he’s deemed ready. The issue now is scoring runs…. With the staff as it is, we should be in most games if we can SCORE. We seem to take the signing of Omar V a little too lightly, he could be a big part of our strategy.”

Wren might pull this off-season out with a couple more moves… The eyes are still on you Mr Wren But good job with these moves.

By Musa

January 13, 2009 12:45 PM | Link to this

OK

This really could be good.

Now we’ve got to get some offense. Frenchy had a terrible season last year. Our CF has not been productive. Our LF is just the same. I hate him, but what would Manny add to our lineup. The biggest thing would be protection. Pitchers would have to pitch to the batters surrounding him. This would give Chipper and Frenchy balls to hit.

Another way to look at it is we’ve got to get baserunners and slap hitters. We’ve got to go back to 1980’s and before baseball. Dont load up and hope for the slugger. Manufacture runs, frustrate the opposition and rely on good pitching and defense.

By keef1234

January 13, 2009 12:45 PM | Link to this

GOOD LUCK WITH Smoltz as well. He has literally 5 anchors in his shoulder and 4 elbow surgeries. We’ll take a chance on someone who is 7 years younger, NO surgeries, has averaged 15 wins for several years. Smoltz is my favorite Brave next to Aaron. And he will go in HOF as Brave and hopefully as a coach/manager someday…

By #1 Smoltz Fan

January 13, 2009 12:47 PM | Link to this

For those that doubt that the Lowe signing is nothing more than desperation I quote ESPN below:

“During the winter meetings, when it appeared that Lowe was looking for a five-year, $80 million deal, one Braves official said the club had “zero” interest in the pitcher.”

Hurts when you step on your own toes so much. Lowe has the cash he was looking for, I dont expect much from Mr. Lowe.

The Smoltz front page pic really hurts to see.

By wont attend a game this year

January 13, 2009 12:49 PM | Link to this

Nope, don’t care. Nothing makes up for giving Smoltzy the shaft!

By JohnGTFan

January 13, 2009 12:50 PM | Link to this

15 mil is a lot for Lowe, but at the same time, i’d take him over AJ anyday. This guys an innings eater that throws a lot of ground balls. As far as getting Peavy…do all of you really want us to lose Escobar and our young talent? Come on!!! Wren did what he wanted…got a proven ace without trading away the next wave of Braves. I’d like Peavy, but not enough to give up one of the best young SS in the game, plus our next crop that we will see within the next 2 years. I’d rather see Wren land a proven bat in the OF. Manny(very doubtful), Dunn(doubtful), Dye(maybe, but would cost our young guys), etc etc. Think about it…Rotation is better than average now. Offensive is pretty good (assuming a big bat is added), and not bad defensively. I’ll miss Smoltz like everyone else…but so many of you crying are thinking with your emotions, not with intelligence about THE BRAVES.

By Brian

January 13, 2009 12:53 PM | Link to this

Since he became a starter in 2002, only Roy Oswalt (115) and Roy Halladay (113) have more wins than Derek Lowe (106).

Only 10 pitchers in baseball have double digit win totals in each of the last seven seasons. Three of them are Lowe, Javier Vazquez, and Tim Hudson. Lowe is the ONLY pitcher in baseball with at least 12 wins each of the last seven years.

He likely will not contend for the Cy Young, but the Braves couldn’t realistically expect to land someone of that caliber. What they got was the most dependable option available outside of Sabathia.

By CW

January 13, 2009 12:53 PM | Link to this

You’ve got to be kidding me! Boston fans think D.Lowe isn’t worth $15 mil a year but they love, love, love the idea of giving Smoltz $5 million regardless of whether he ever pitches 1 inning!

This is a HUGE upgrade. The Braves need someone who can pitch right now and make a difference for this team. Smoltz was paid $500,000 per inning last year and expected to continue being the centerpiece of a rotation, despite the fact that his return may not happen until mid-summer, if at all. CHUZPAH!

Lowe has AVERAGED 207+ innings as a starter over the past seven seasons with a 3.75 ERA. He may not be the pitcher Smoltz was in his prime, but with Hudson on the shelf for most, if not all, of the upcoming season, Derek Lowe is a great addition to this club.

Now let’s trade the achy and aging Chipper Jones and rebuild our outfield with some good, younger players.

By VAROADRUNNER

January 13, 2009 12:54 PM | Link to this

One last comment to GT

The sun will come up tomorrow - and our Braves will play baseball. At least we have the “if’s”. What were we at the end of last season? pretty POOR. Hell, what were we two weeks ago?

Mark my words - THE SUN WILL COME UP TOMORROW and BTW, get one of those half full glasses and dispose of all of the half empty ones.

The Braves are our team!

By JD

January 13, 2009 12:54 PM | Link to this

This is a better deal than most think. Burnett was a much bigger risk and he’s unproven. Now, let’s go get Abreu and save this offseason of discontent.

By Baseball??

January 13, 2009 12:57 PM | Link to this

Who cares about baseball & these OVERPAID primadonnas??

When does “Toe Meet Leather” season begin??

By Fastball

January 13, 2009 12:57 PM | Link to this

Sorry, but Wren ruined Baltimore and this off seasons mirrors the mistakes he made then. We’re in trouble folks.

By Virgil

January 13, 2009 12:57 PM | Link to this

I think Wren is doing well. Peavy never really wanted to come to Atlanta and Burnett was too ifffy with his injury history. I like the way this team looks on paper.

Get over Smoltz already…he wanted to go to Boston.

By Eric from MO

January 13, 2009 12:58 PM | Link to this

To everybody who says we should of signed Smoltz instead of Lowe, get over it! Lowe pitched 200 innings last year, Smoltz pitched 28. Lowe is a workhorse and will be ready opening day. Smoltz is on his last breath. He wont be ready til at least June. By then the Braves would be out of it, unless we signed Kawakami and Lowe. The Braves argueably has the best rotation in the N.L. At least the top 3. Chicago and Arizona could also claim this. The Braves have one of the best two bullpens, other being the Mets. Our defense is solid, now its just up to the offense. I dont know if the Braves will make the playoffs, but Wren has put out the best team he could of. Its up to Cox now.

By The Todd

January 13, 2009 12:58 PM | Link to this

Good pickup. If he stays healthy the Braves “could” compete for a Wild Card in ‘09. This also sets them up for a run in “10.

Oh and Burnett sucks.

By BlakeD

January 13, 2009 12:59 PM | Link to this

I really don’t understand why so many people are ticked about giving a solid, rather dependable 35-year-old starter a four year deal but it would’ve been okay to bring back a 41-year-old sometimes-starter-sometimes-closer at nearly $10 million/year.
I have nothing against Smoltzie, it’ll be odd not seeing him in a Braves uni, but this is a good move. Having a rotation of Lowe, Jurrgens, Vazquez, Kawakami, and another likely pick-up for at least half the season, and then either Hudson returns or Hanson is called up. GM Wren didn’t have to sell half the Braves’ future away in the deal. Good move, I say.

By earldon

January 13, 2009 12:59 PM | Link to this

It doesn’t make up for not getting Smoltz back, but it’s pretty strong. I think Hanson will wind up being the real ace of the staff.

We can’t have Dunn and Francouer in the same outfield, that’s way to many rally killing strikeouts and runners left on base.

By tbhawksfan

January 13, 2009 1:03 PM | Link to this

The Artist Formerly Known as Too Hot For Teacher 12:37

I’m with you. That outfeild wouldn’t hit many HR’s, but the BA and run production should be good.

I’m looking for a trade though. We now have too much pitching depth and maybe Morton and a lesser rook could upgrade that OF senario.

By Coach (Skip and Pete will be missed)

January 13, 2009 1:04 PM | Link to this

Wow, Frank Wren just blew his wad and 80 million on an inning eater. Sorry, I’m not impressed. Our GM overpaid. Considering the situation, it’s understandable. Wren had to save face after the Smoltz debacle.

Derek Lowe has a record of 68-60 during his previous five seasons. He is good for 12-14 wins, 200 innings, 18 team wins and 20 quality starts. Which is an improvement over last season but far from being an A-C-E type pitcher. Lowe will be 36 in June and 39 when this current contract expires. Somehow, I don’t think the Braves are going to get the same production in the next four years that Lowe produced during the last five years.

By #1 Smoltz Fan

January 13, 2009 1:08 PM | Link to this

I do not want to be all doom and gloom, as this is certainly a GREAT move given the current situation.

BUT a Ford Pinto is a great ride if you do not have a car.

Braves should have saved the 40M to offset the reduction in Fan attendance this year, and put a Farm rotation out there to see what happens.

By Wrenfan

January 13, 2009 1:09 PM | Link to this

Nice rebound, Mr.Wren! I much rather see the Braves pay 15 mil-a-year to a healthy ace then resign two 40+ year-olds who probably won’t pitch in 2009. Keep up the roster re-building Frank…

By RBraves

January 13, 2009 1:09 PM | Link to this

Derek Lowe as the ACE? An ACE? He is no more than a mediocre pitcher at best. Braves give him 15 mil per. That is a huge waste of money. An ACE he AIN’T!!!!

By Eric from MO

January 13, 2009 1:13 PM | Link to this

FireFrank you would rather have Peavy, instead of Lowe becase he is younger. That makes no sense since Peavy is the one with arm problems. Just give up one more prospect??? Are you insane? We were already givig up two major league ready pitchers, a all-star shortstop, and a top 30 prospect. Pitchers now pitch into their 40’s. 36 isnt that old. Get with the times. Also maybe you didnt noticed that Lowe pitched 10 times as many innings as Smoltz last season and Smoltz is already going to miss at least a third of the season.

Also dont forget 2010. Lowe could be our number 4 pitcher. With JJ, Hudson, Hanson, then Lowe, and then Vazquez.

By KPH

January 13, 2009 1:15 PM | Link to this

I am shocked that Wren actually closed a deal even though it is not a very good one.

By 1eyedJack

January 13, 2009 1:15 PM | Link to this

I like it. Thanks Frank. 60 mil over four years? So it’s 60 mil over four years. We paid that much to Hampton the last four years not to pitch. Smoltzie was paid 14 mil last year to pitch 28 innings.

Lowe is durable and has no known arm issues, unlike Peavy or Smoltz. Peavy has an unorthodox delivery and a sore elbow (just waiting to explode), and Smoltz has 5 screws holding his arm to his shoulder. Burnett has health concerns also and seems to pitch well only when he is pitching for a new contract.

This is the guy that Chipper wanted from the start and I would trust his judgement as well as that of Wren and his scouting department over you guys any day. I would not be the least bit surprised if Lowe has a better season than Burnett and Smoltzie combined.

Frank Wren, though out-maneuvered at times this off-season, has managed to acquire not just the two starting pitchers he had hoped for but three durable guys who will be able to eat up some innings and save our bullpen, and without giving up the farm.

Now we have those farmhands we deem expendable to try and trade for a left fielder with some pop. We don’t need to sign a free agent LF who will demand millions of dollars and a multi-year contract, remember that we have Heyward and Schaeffer/Hernandez waiting in the wings.

For those of you who are demanding that we sign this guy or that guy for millions, it sure is easy to spend other peoples money ain’t it? Bet you’re sitting there waiting on that check from Obama too ain’t you? You’re the same guys who want to spend millions but would be the first and loudest to b*tch and moan should the Braves raise ticket prices.

My biggest concern about the starting rotation is the lack of a lefty. If Glavine can make it back and be effective that would help.

Are you out there U Kno Who? How’s about chiming in and letting us know how you feel about this?

By ChipperFan

January 13, 2009 1:16 PM | Link to this

Absolutely LOVE this signing!

Anyone who is saying we overpaid doesn’t understand the economics of baseball. Look around the league at what other #1 or #2, or even #3 starters are getting. And it’s not just Sabathia and Santana, either. $15M is the market price for a Derek Lowe-type pitcher. He is an exceptional big-game pitcher, an innings-eater, a groundball pitcher (which is great considering our excellent defensive infield), and a winner. He has proven very durable over his career. Plus, since he was a reliever for his first few years, he has significantly less innings on his arm than a typical 35-year-old.

He is a great fit for the Braves, and exactly what we needed: an ace for 2009. He and Jurrjens make a dynamite top-of-the-rotation duo, and Vazquez and Kawakami make a very solid, durable, innings-eating combo as the #3 and #4.

In 2010, Lowe likely becomes our #4 starter, as Tim Hudson will be back, and Tommy Hanson and Jair Jurrjens will be absolutely dominating the league. This one signing completely changes the Braves’ offseason. There is a LOT for us to be excited about for ‘09 and beyond!

Go Braves!

By Josh

January 13, 2009 1:19 PM | Link to this

Now lets get Abrue or Dunn in right field!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Eric from MO

January 13, 2009 1:19 PM | Link to this

I already posted this on a couple of blogs ago but seems some of you missed it. The ones who saw it said I was right.

“For all the people out there who say Lowe at best is a number 2 pitcher or mediocore I decided to list all the teams that will have a number 1 pitcher worse than Derrick Lowe next season. Oakland, Texas, Anaheim, Detriot, Kansas City, White Sox, Twins, Baltimore, Dodgers, Colorado, St. Louis, Pittsburgh, Reds, Milwaukee, Washington, and Florida. That is 16 teams out of the 29 other teams that dont have an ace as good as Lowe. There is also another few teams that I didnt include that you could argue that Lowe is better than their number 1 too. So 16 out of 29, so yeah I do believe he is a number 1.”

By RTS

January 13, 2009 1:21 PM | Link to this

I agree with everyone on this blog that believes we need to get OVER the Smoltz issue. At first I was mad as he** that the Braves did not pony up some more money, but the more I look at it now, and especially after seeing his BIG smile wearing the Red Sox hat I have changed my mind. He could have taken less. As one blogger noted, he got paid BIG time last year for 5 starts. That shouldmake up for this year. Lowe will be fine, may not be the true essence of an ACE but he is better than what we have.

By crs

January 13, 2009 1:24 PM | Link to this

The real key is how Jair, Morton and Hansen progress. Investing 60 million in Lowe is questionable at best. The braves would be in much better shape if they had not tried to give Cox, Chipper, Smoltz and Glavine one more shot at a world series. Franchise needs to rebuild from within.

By Eric from MO

January 13, 2009 1:27 PM | Link to this

“During the winter meetings, when it appeared that Lowe was looking for a five-year, $80 million deal, one Braves official said the club had “zero” interest in the pitcher.”

Hurts when you step on your own toes so much. Lowe has the cash he was looking for, I dont expect much from Mr. Lowe.”

At that price they had no interest. Did they give him that much? No 5 years for 80 and 4 years for 60 is a big difference.

Let me ask you all a question, if Smoltz wasnt a brave would you all still want him over Lowe? No, you all are just too emotional. After 3 years of losing I want a winner. Bye Smoltz. Good luck!

By Joe

January 13, 2009 1:28 PM | Link to this

Great Job Frank Wren I’m glad we are getting Derek Lowe I would rather have him than Jake Peavy or AJ Burnett. Derek Lowe actually wants to play with Atlanta he could have easily went to NY Mets but he chose The Braves.

Welcome to Atlanta Derek and I’ am looking forward to coming to Turner Field to see you pitch.

Go Braves!!!

By KPH

January 13, 2009 1:29 PM | Link to this

Oh and Mr. Wren please do not bring Andru Jones back.

By Go Hawks

January 13, 2009 1:32 PM | Link to this

Great pick up actually. We needed him badly. Still hate that Smoltz will be gone.

We REALLY need a home run hitter now. Our lineup is toothless.

By Shane

January 13, 2009 1:33 PM | Link to this

Will you guys get over Smoltz. The braves made him an offer. he didnt take it. MOVE ON. Smoltz probably wont pitch this year and if he does he might make 3-5 starts. THATS IT. Lowe still has alot of innings left. Apples to oranges

By Bob Horner

January 13, 2009 1:34 PM | Link to this

Let’s get Adam Dunn and his .240 average. At least he’ll belt 40+ HR and strike some fear into the heart of our lineup.

Way to get it done Wren!!! D-Lowe is a HUGE addition to our staff that suddenly looks very competitive. Kawakami might end up being pretty good as well. We know what Javy V can do - one thing I like about him is he can get the big strikeout when he needs it. Great signings.. all 3.

Bob Horner

By Mark Biles

January 13, 2009 1:35 PM | Link to this

I love the move. I believe this rotation can compete in the NL East now if they stay healthy. Let’s go get a LF heavy hitter now!

By Eric from MO

January 13, 2009 1:43 PM | Link to this

Wayne,”ONE ACE DOES NOT A WINNER MAKE.

Give me 5 good pitchers that can win 12-15 games and I’ll give you a winning team. You can not win anything with one so called ace. Pitching is the name of the game, with a few bats, not a pitcher.”

I think we have it. Pitching that is. With Lowe, Vazquez, JJ, Kawakami, and Campillo, I think we have 5 guys that could win 12-15 games. Plus Hanson too. Now our only weakness is offense.

By Bruce Benedict

January 13, 2009 1:46 PM | Link to this

How can anyone doubt this move? Yeah, it’s $15 million a year, but Geezus people that’s modern baseball! And Derek Lowe is one of the toughest, grittiest competitors out there. What’s not to love? He could easily win 17-18 games next year if we can score some runs. Some of the bloggers on here amaze me. This is a great move for Los Bravos! YEAH BABY!

By MSC Brave

January 13, 2009 1:47 PM | Link to this

I like the deal a lot! Better than Burnett or Smoltz would have been for us. Now we need a Power Hitting outfielder to help Chipper!

Wren your not out of the woods just yet!

By John

January 13, 2009 1:47 PM | Link to this

I think this is a great deal. Lowe has been a workhorse since coming from the bullpen. He will provide the stability this rotation needs, especially if Hanson makes the rotation, as I believe he will. He is more durable then Burnett, or Peavy and Sheets. Now lets get that outfield bat.

By proeye

January 13, 2009 1:49 PM | Link to this

For all the B.S. that the Braves had to go through, I actually think they have a better pitching staff now than what was projected. Who was that other Japanese pitcher? He may have cost very little but I think Kawakami is going to work out much, much better since he can step right into the rotation. I think Burnett is a better pitcher than Lowe but at least Lowe has a lower risk of injury—but who knows about this! I think Vasquez has a decent future with the Braves because I think he is really an NL pitcher and will thrive under the Braves system. Maybe it’s just my opinion only but I think he will do well.

We’ll just have to wait and see how all this plays out.

Anyway… I think if the Braves can pick up a power hitting outfielder, 2009 may not look so bad. However, I’m still not so sure with a new LFer that the team has enough to beat the Phillies and Mets. It seems that the NL East is now the toughest division in the National League. If you ask me, now with all these acquisitions, a lot depends on Chipper Jones as far as how far the team will go. If he can play 140 games and hits .320-.350 with some power then the Braves may contend, but if not and we have to rely on Prado and Infante, I don’t think they are going anywhere.

I mean, any team can go far if EVERYTHING works out, but how often does that happen?

By usedcars

January 13, 2009 1:52 PM | Link to this

I’m amazed at all the negativity!!!!Wren went out and got not 1, but 2 more guys for the rotation in the last week and everyone wants him fired. I’ve already said how I feel about Smoltzie, but he wasn’t pitching till June. We need to compete coming out of spring training. We now have Low, KK, JJ, Vazquez, Campillo, Hanson, Morton and Reyes that can start. Talent and depth. We still need to figure out lf and I still want a cleanup type hitter like Magglio or Carlos Lee. If we could somehow use some of our young pitching and a young position player like cody johnson, hernandez or brandon hicks to get one of those guys, I would put us as the favorite in the east…Remember the phils just won so they will have a hangover, utley is out for 2 months, their pitching won’t be as strong as ours.. The mets are the mets, delgado, beltran, castillo and whoever is in the of are a year older…If you had told any of us three months ago that this would be done with 10 more weeks till the season opener I think that you all would have been happy

By clay

January 13, 2009 1:53 PM | Link to this

he is worth maybe half that amount; come on braves wise up

By BrandonC

January 13, 2009 1:54 PM | Link to this

I don’t think we are going after Dunn. It’s being reported that he wants 4 years and $56MM. I don’t see Atlanta coming anywhere CLOSE to that kind of money for him. There are a couple of rumors today stating that Atlanta has contacted NY about a possible trade for Nady or Swisher. I don’t think the Braves would have to give up a TON of talent for those two so that may be the better option.

By Jay Stiltner

January 13, 2009 1:56 PM | Link to this

Whether you like Derek Lowe or not, we had to get this guy signed. He was the last decent starting pitcher available on the market.

At best, he’ll win 15 to 18 games & at worst, he’ll be a sub .500 pitcher but still eat up 200 innings. After the departure of Smoltzie, this is about the best that Braves Nation could of asked for, assuming Smoltz was going to come back and be a successful pitcher.

I’m not going to sit here and say the Braves will be contenders this season. However, I feel alot more confident in their chances with Lowe, Vazquez, Jurrjens and this Kawakami cat from Japan. Yeah, Frank Wren overpaid for Lowe and yeah, he ABSOLUTELY should of given Smoltz a few more million to retire as a Brave, but as bad as our offseason has been, things could of been far worse.

And who knows, Jake Peavy is still out there…..

By wes

January 13, 2009 2:00 PM | Link to this

I agree that smoltz wanted to leave. With incentives, we gave him the same opportunties as Boston at around 10 mil. Smoltz knew he could not meet the numbers to get him his full ten so he went with the money and went to boston for 5.5 mil. I think we can stop blaming wren now. Smoltz’s max 6-8 starts would not have helped us this year. While maybe not an ace, Lowe will consistently keep us in games and pitch a lot of innings. And to say he was overpaid, i dont think so, he knew all along he would get at least 15 mil a yr and he got it. Good job wren, now get us a bat.

By Ryan

January 13, 2009 2:01 PM | Link to this

The rotation is solid enough to compete - questions certainly, but with upside. Smoltz has been my favorite player wearing a Braves uniform, but emotions aside, he’s a big question mark. Even with Smoltz, Wren had to make another big move for a pitcher - without another contender left on the market, Lowe was a nice pick-up. Lowe has a solid background without the injury history. Overpaid? Sure. But this is a capitalistic society - he’s worth as much as someone’s willing to pay.

Big issue though - who’s hitting cleanup behind Chipper? Remember Chipper’s stats with Tex behind him? Unreal. Remember Chipper’s stats without Tex? Batting average dropped how many points? Lots of walks. Need someone to put fear in the opposition’s mind, so they have to pitch to Chipper. McCann is a great hitter - just not exactly the prototypical run producer that the opposition hates to face. The $5-10 mill they just saved on Smoltz (plus whatever they have left in the reserve) would make Adam Dunn (defensive liability and all) a happy guy and the offense more formidable.

By Run Heap Run

January 13, 2009 2:05 PM | Link to this

Finally some good news for the Braves. Lets hope he doesn’t pull the rug out from under them like Furcal did.

Unpopular opinion alert: I’d like to see the Braves give Andruw another shot. He has slimmed up a lot and I think he is primed for a comeback. It will be interesting to see where he lands.

By Skeezix

January 13, 2009 2:08 PM | Link to this

Wren paid too much, but he is a pretty good pitcher. I’d rather see him as a #2; not the ace. At least Wren finally did something positive for 2009; but he should still be fired for all the bunny trails he has been down.

By mr2nole

January 13, 2009 2:09 PM | Link to this

To all of you b*** about Smoltz being gone….Get over it… Why not drag Niekro,Mc Murtry.and Rocker back while your at it. Lowe will be 39 when his contract is up and Smoltz is 42 now. Your telling the world you think a 42 yr old Smoltz is better than a 35 yr old Lowe who pitched 200 innings last yr ? I suppose you go out and buy 20 yr old used cars and say “it will not brake down ,cause I like it so much” Grow up!

By Jason Elsberry

January 13, 2009 2:11 PM | Link to this

This is a terrific addition to hopefully what will prove to be a strong rotation. He’s durable and a hell of a competitor. I think all Braves fans will enjoy watching him pitch.

By JOE

January 13, 2009 2:16 PM | Link to this

Derrick Lowe, JJ, Vasqez, and Kawakami vs. a broken down Hampton,Smoltz and Glavine(last year)..

Frank: you done good by me. I am definitely excited.. Go Braves.. I love Smoltz too but Wren made the right decision.

By Tech Man in Dawg Country

January 13, 2009 2:16 PM | Link to this

No way Wren could win here. If he signs Lowe, then people will say he overpaid. If he doesn’t, people would say he struck out again and the Braves are too cheap.

I don’t know about the Peavy deal, because we don’t know what else they wanted.

But I do think Wren messed up with Smoltz. He should have matched Boston’s offer. At worst he looks loyal to a long time employee (and in this economy, with all of us afraid of loosing our jobs, I am not sure if anyone would look down on that…) If we had Smoltz in this rotation, holding down the fort until Hudson returns next year, I would feel good now. As it is now, I am just okay; not overly excited but not depressed either. If they had Smoltz, I could rationalize that we got pitching, with the potential to have a very good staff, or even a great staff if Smoltz came back as Smoltz of old, without having to give up any prospects but Flowers. Like I said, right now I am just ok, but not excited.

By humbug

January 13, 2009 2:16 PM | Link to this

A 35 year old with injuries for 60 mil and a foreign pitcher with no major league experience. I have to see them pitch during the season to decide how good or bad these moves are. At least Wren is finally doing something and I just hope he is not acting out of desperation. We’ll see later if he is a goat or a hero.

By a

January 13, 2009 2:17 PM | Link to this

I for one am VERY encouraged by the signings of Lowe, Kawakami and Vazquez.

I do have a question for you, though. If you examine the projected starting rotation, it reads:

I can’t help but notice that ALL of those pitchers are right handed. The only difference may be if Jo Jo Reyes was plugged in at the five spot – but I don’t see how he’s earned that right over Campillo or Hanson.

Does this fact a)concern you and b)make you think the Braves aren’t done with pitching moves?

By Tech Man in Dawg Country

January 13, 2009 2:21 PM | Link to this

How about making the same offer to Sheets as we had for Smoltz … a smaller guaranteed amount, say 3 m, and a lot of incentives that will pay him if he can pitch. Sign him for two years and lets see what happens. That with the other signings might be enough to get me excited.

By Darren

January 13, 2009 2:22 PM | Link to this

Let’s face it………….Lowe isn’t even a knat on John Smoltz’s crank!!!!!! They should have ingnored the Chinaman and given the money to Smotzie.

Freakin Wren.

By Blair

January 13, 2009 2:22 PM | Link to this

Overpaid considering what AJ got from NY? Not hardly.

Welcome to Atlanta, Derek.

By scottbravesfan

January 13, 2009 2:23 PM | Link to this

Great pick up by the Braves. It was less years and money than it would take to get Burnett and Lowe is a better pitcher anyway. GREAT JOB FRANK!!!!!

And all you idiots on here talking about how the Braves overspent. You got to spend money to make money. Plus if he didn’t sign here his other two destinations was the Mets and Phillies. So not only did we get a great pitcher, who stays HEALTHY all year, something that John Smoltz will not be able to do, we also stopped our rivals from getting him.

Frank make a trade for Dye or sign Abreau or Dunn and we are ready to go.

By scottbravesfan

January 13, 2009 2:25 PM | Link to this

Also you people need to realize that Derrek Lowe is a better pitcher at this point in his career than John Smoltz. Let Smoltz move on to Boston. We need guys who can actually take the mound and pitch.

By Dean

January 13, 2009 2:26 PM | Link to this

This team is still an 80 win team. It’s just a reshuffled version of last year without the age in the rotation. Nothing but mediocrity. It’s too bad the Braves needed to make a point by spending 60 million. I can think of many other ways of saying we want to be mediocre.

The cure of course would to actually get a real Ace - not a guy who suddenly went from workhorse to Ace over night. Let’s see, get Peavy and a big bat AND a proven on base machine. Then we’ll talk 90 wins. Because in this division, it’s just not going to happen the way we’re headed.

By a

January 13, 2009 2:27 PM | Link to this

granted, my question about does not include the possibility that Glavine comes back healthy and ready to pitch.

By Ike Clanton

January 13, 2009 2:29 PM | Link to this

Most of the people in here don’t know jack when they cut down the Braves signing one of the best pitchers in baseball with a nasty sinker. This guy is just as good or better than Hudson. Think how good the starting staff will be when Hudson does come back. 1 more strong bat in the OF and a good lefty in the bullpen (Ohman?) and they should be competitive.

By Eric from MO

January 13, 2009 2:30 PM | Link to this

Humbug are you stupid? Lowe has injuries??? Since becoming a starter he has started 32 games at least. Your a moron.

By DinoBravo

January 13, 2009 2:30 PM | Link to this

all you whiney Mary’s need to shut yer pieholes! Man, Frank Wren made a move, be happy with it..I swear some of you will never be happy. Lowe has the same records as Johan Santana over the last 6 or 7 years….It is a good move..Lowe is a good pitcher, and innings eater, and firey guy. for those that hate it, get the heck off the wagon now….this train is headed for the world series…

By smitty

January 13, 2009 2:31 PM | Link to this

I love how losing Smoltz suddenly makes the GM an idiot. How easy it is to remember the last 2 years when Smoltz was healthy (rarely) he struggled to finish 5 innings. He has been on and off the DL, and he’s getting older and will spend more and more time on the DL. People also forget he made 14 million last year for very little work. The deal the Braves offered was BETTER than the deal Boston offered IF Smoltz was successful. If Smoltz didn’t think he was going to be successful enough to meet the criteria to receive the full contract WHY should the Braves have been.
I understand Smoltz for many was the face of the franchise, but listen it’s time to move on. For the money Smoltz wanted we can get cheaper/better players that will still be here when the guys down on the farm can get up here in a few years.

By Eric from MO

January 13, 2009 2:34 PM | Link to this

I really wished this was DOB’s blog so he could straghten you all out who says Smoltz is better than Lowe. Yeah when 15 years ago Smoltz was. When Smoltz was in his prime he was, but now, you are just idiots.

Im done with this blog.

By dawgfan1911

January 13, 2009 2:35 PM | Link to this

Look guys deal with it! There is really nuthing else the Braves can do. They tried to get other players but they got burned by the player or their agent. Get off the Smoltz bandwagon! He held the Braves hostage. No one will come out and say it because of what this guy has done for the organization but i bet Lowe pitches more innings than Smoltzy this year. I like a bulldogg type pitcher like Lowe. In many ways age dosent really matter with pitchers as long as they stay healthy. I say give manny a three year deal worth 60 million dollars and make a true run at a division or world series title. The Braves havent spent any money in the last 4 to 5 years. They should have something stashed away.

By haley

January 13, 2009 2:38 PM | Link to this

This is better than getting A. J. And signing a slugger like Adam Dunn is better than signing Fur-Ball anyday. Braves will be fine now with a bat to protect Chipper!-jhs

By Bobbymahlon

January 13, 2009 2:39 PM | Link to this

On the nights Lowe pitches we better have Prado playing second base instead of Johnson. I have never in all of my playing days and after that watching baseball have I’ve ever seen a player have as much trouble as Kelly getting the ball out of his mit and into his throwing hand. By the way all the times he had that trouble last year was he given and error when he could not make a throw or merely dropped the ball. Either Ron Gant or Brian Jordan was talking about KJ problem last year and did not know if it was his mit that might be too big or was it because of some other reason.

By GeorgiaJim

January 13, 2009 2:39 PM | Link to this

Lowe is a great get. We will be able to start out healthy for a change. Good rotation to help stop the 1 run losses. If we had won half of our one run losses last season, we would have won the division. For all of you that want Dunn. Consider this, his defense is horrible, you know why, he weighs 275lbs. People that is far too heavy to lug it around the outfield. Get Jermaine Dye. 2mil less per year, 292av, 34hr, 96rbi, 541slug%, 41dbl, 96runs, 172hits,104strike outs. Dunn, 240av, 40hr, 100rbi, 500slug%, 23dbl, 79runs, 122hits, 164strike outs.
Dye is faster, better arm, better defense, bats right handed, will plug right into the cleanup spot and protect Chipper. We only need him for 2 years while the prospects get ready. Also, he started his career with the Braves. Dunn- 4years, 56mil Dye - 2years, 24mil

By David

January 13, 2009 2:42 PM | Link to this

Yes, I like it!!! Patience has paid off for Frank Wren and I am happy for him as he desparately needed to land an ace . Go after Dunn or Nady now with the same enthusiasm and fans will forget about a 42 year old pitcher with an unknown future that just left.

By PMC

January 13, 2009 2:43 PM | Link to this

Sure it’s a fine deal. He’s 35 if he stays healthy we get a solid #2 pitcher who has good experience for a few years. Hudson is the #1 starter. Now it makes Jurjjens and co more viable and gives them a year to try and splice in Tommy Hanson before completely throwing him into the wild.

This is a good move. Now they need a couple of bats with pop in the outfield.. or some speed and lead off potential anyway.

Good job Frank Wren and Co.

By gvblack

January 13, 2009 2:45 PM | Link to this

The last to additions of Lowe and Kawakami are excellent. To all those who mourn the loss of Smoltz, ask yourself who was the last 42 year old pitcher that came back from extensive shoulder surgery? There has not been one. Smoltz is done. The Braves need a starter April first, not MAYBE June1, or July 1, or never. Adios, Smoltz, you’re only after another ring and threw Wren under the bus on your way out of town.

State of the Braves SP-1) Lowe 2) Vazquez 3) Jurrjens 4) Kawakami 5) Campillo is solid. No 20 game winner but potentially four 15 game winners. There is always hope for Hanson, Glavine, and Hudson for the 2nd half of the season if needed. Did we really need to add Smoltz to that list?

RP- Add Ohman with Gonzo, Soriano and Boyer, while reduceing their workload through starters going more than 5-6 innings every night, and life is good there.

INF- Kotchman should give us at least LaRoche numbers. McCann is a star. Escobar is for real, and KJ will hit. It’s all about Chipper’s health.

OF-Need a big bat, and not Andruw. His bat is dead. I’d rather have Abreu than Dunn. Franceour should return to form, which is .270, 25 hr, 90 rbi’s. Too much talent for him to stink for long. He is not a .330 40 hr 120 rbi guy, so let’s not dream.

With the addition of Ohman and at OF bat, I’ll take this lineup to win the NL East. After that, it takes a little luck to advance.

By Sam

January 13, 2009 2:51 PM | Link to this

Ok I love John Smoltz and would love for him to have finished his career as an Atlanta Brave. But be real here people, he’s in his 40’s. He chose the Red Sox. I wish him the best. Tom Glavine understands that he’s not going to get a huge contract being in his 40’s and being injured. He’s willing to wait and see how his arm feels for a contract. Why couldn’t Smoltz? I don’t like how the off season has come along so far, but offers were made to players and they turned the offers down. Instead of all of you whining about the Braves needing to do more, how about getting off your rear ends and going to some games so the Braves can have the extra revenue to spend on rediculous contracts like it seems everyone on this blog wants. Blame yourselves, not Frank Wren for not having tons of money to throw around. As far as Derek Lowe is concerned, I feel he is better than Burnett. Lowe is a sinker ball pitcher with almost no health issues ever. I think we’ve had enough Mike Hamptons eating up payroll. Burnett has had health issues in the past. As far as the outfield is concerned, Abreu would be the best fit. People can’t score if they are sitting in the dugout after striking out. Dunn and Jones both strike out a lot. I would be happy with and outfield of Abreu, Blanco, and Francoeur. Homeruns do not equal wins. How many of you fair weather fans remember the 91 Braves?? Terry Pendleton and David Justice led that team in homeruns with 21 each. We have Francoeur, C Jones, and McCann easily capable of reaching that mark. There is too much emphasis put on power. We need people who get hits and make productive outs. Think about what some of you are wanting….You are wanting to add almost 400 strikeouts to the outfield. I’ll go play for cheaper than what Dunn or Andruw would play for and I can catch the ball. Give me a paycheck to strikeout 200 times a year. I can’t stress it enough, the Braves need ballplayers not popup strikeout artists.

By A.D.

January 13, 2009 3:01 PM | Link to this

What time tonight do you think that Boras and Lowe will except an offer from a different team?

By canarybird

January 13, 2009 3:04 PM | Link to this

Great job, Fran Wren! In the last four days the 2009 edition of the Atlanta Braves has become respectable! Yes, I was dissappointed and hurt that a super player for 20 years was let go, but the signing of Lowe and the Japanese pitcher has truly brighten the outlook for this year’s team. All that is missing is a big bat and Will Olhman. I hope that in the next few days that the missing pieces to the puzzle are in place. GO FRANK. You’ve changed my mind like many other Braves followers. Please don’t stop NOW!!!! Finish the revamp of the team and lets move on.

By cjizzle

January 13, 2009 3:05 PM | Link to this

I don’t like the move because I think we over paid for a guy that didn’t seem to have a big market this off season. The Dodgers didn’t resign him and the Mets only offered a 3 year $36 Million deal. It just seems like a desperate move for a guy who was 14-11 last season. Smoltz could have given us similar numbers for way less money.

By A.D.

January 13, 2009 3:07 PM | Link to this

Also we just paid 60 Million for a #2 or #3 starter. We still have a problem that we have no #1 starter to go against other teams. Jurriens has wonderful potential but he is still a great #3 or #4. Vazquez and Lowe are #2 or #3 starters at best. Hudson who i still like alot will not be at full form till 2010. For what reason are we spending that money on Lowe. Does Frank Wren really think that signing Lowe will make up for not getting peavy or Burnett letting the whole furcal thing go on and telling Smoltzy to leave ( even though in my mind Smoltz is worth 10 mill just for sitting on the bench to teach the youngsters how to play the right way)

By William in Pasadena

January 13, 2009 3:07 PM | Link to this

I agree with “getnathan”. Let’s keep going. Trade Jo Jo, Morton, Francouer & a prospect for Peavy. Sign Abreu and trade Campillo, KJ & Hernandez or Anderson to get Dye. We then could go - all - the way! (Oh, sorry that’s football) Look at this: Pitchers - Peavy, Lowe, Glavine (need a lefty), Vazquez, Jurrgens, with Hudson & Hanson backup. Lineup - Anderson or Hernandez cf, Abreu rf, Chipper 3b, Dye lf, McCann c, Yunell ss, Kotchman 1b and a rookie 2b. We still would have a great lineup when Chipper goes down with annual injury. Our bullpen will be good and we could sign Andruw to a minor league contract. I believe Andruw will be determined to prove a point, and if not we wouldn’t lose much. (I am available for a GM job)

By geewiz

January 13, 2009 3:09 PM | Link to this

I thought the Braves didn’t have the funds, or is it they didn’t have the funds for Smoltzy. I think he made the right decision, tis has gotta hurt him knowing we had the money all along, just he wasn’t worth it to the front office….

By the real OLD GOLD

January 13, 2009 3:09 PM | Link to this

I guess they had to do SOMETHING… although the Greg Norton deal was a real huge move ( << sarcasm).

What I would have done: Keep Willie Harris, Keep Tex, Keep Smoltzy, Bring up some young guys and give them a shot, then try and sing a REAL ace when everyone else was making the actual baseball deals after the season ended.

Keep Smoltz and Trade Wren

Thanks Liberty Media, hope you get a nice tax writeoff. Arthur Blank, please save the Braves!

By ugacpa02

January 13, 2009 3:11 PM | Link to this

My, this blog is full of ignorant posters today. Just in the last few minutes: Bobby Mahlon - insulting Kelly Johnson’s defense. KJ is league average defensively. Look it up instead of going by your feelings. An average defense with above average offense and you want to sit him. Smitty - The deal the Braves offered was less than the Red Sox with incentives or without incentives. Also the Red Sox incentives were easier to achieve than the Braves. There was no way for John Smoltz to make more money with the Braves than the Sox this year. Multiple people such as Tech Man in Dawg Country - You want us to sign another expensive starting pitcher? We’ve already added 3 starters when we only were looking for 2. We have room for only 1 of Hudson/Glavine/Campillo/Reyes/Morton/Hanson in our rotation. Nobody on any kind of budget would go out and sign another pitcher to put in the #5 rotation spot when we still have the ability to improve our outfield. We don’t have another $10M to go pay Ben Sheets, we need a power bat.

By JS

January 13, 2009 3:11 PM | Link to this

Now go trade for Xavier Nady. He’s the one year bridge the Braves need until prospects are ready. Outfield of Nady/Anderson-Shafer/Francouer. Solid infield. More durable starters than past few years will help bullpen. Good bench with Norton and Infante. That’s a competitive team to go against the rest of the East.

By geewiz

January 13, 2009 3:12 PM | Link to this

I thought the Braves didn’t have the funds, or is it they didn’t have the funds for Smoltzy. I think he made the right decision, tis has gotta hurt him knowing we had the money all along, just he wasn’t worth it to the front office….

By dogsbrekky

January 13, 2009 3:13 PM | Link to this

DYE is very very good, get rid of the 2nd tier pitcher kids Jo JO and Morton and sign Jermaine…

By somekindoffan

January 13, 2009 3:14 PM | Link to this

wow it seams that some of you guys no nothing about the way baseball works…..lets give 5mill to a guy who has had 5 operations and is in his 40’s (John smolts)…lets give up the farm for jake. hell well be ok next year but well be in the same place in a coulpe years. 90 loss year with no farm. frank has done a great job Not paying to much for john who’s arm is held together buy pins. he did great not throwing the young guys away for jake. F furcal hope he breaks his legs. no way should AJ of got close to 80mill so im glad we lost that to. look back when tom and Greg was not with atl and smolts was hurt/closing we had no true ace then and yet we won. this year will be good we might not make the playoffs but this year will show what we have to come. And stop saying LETS GET DUNN he wants four years, there is no need to hold the young outfield back for a guy like that.

By ugacpa02

January 13, 2009 3:19 PM | Link to this

By dogsbrekky

January 13, 2009 3:13 PM | Link to this

DYE is very very good, get rid of the 2nd tier pitcher kids Jo JO and Morton and sign Jermaine…

You can’t “sign” a player who is not a free agent. There’s a reason Dunn & Abreu are better for us, it’s because they don’t require a trade to acquire. Why throw away JoJo and Morton when similar production is available on the open market?

By UGA75

January 13, 2009 3:23 PM | Link to this

Frank Wren say’s we average fans don’t have a clue, but when those same average fans start raising hell, Frank gets off his butt and overpays for a pitcher on his way to the retirement home.

Fire Frank Wren

Now Frank will go out and fill our outfield spot with a guy from the Mexican League and declare the Braves competitive.

I really don’t like this club house. Historically the Braves have had low key leaders and always a John Smoltz to provide fire when it became necessary. With all the new Players there will not be a true leader, Chipper doesn’t want the role, as he prefers to work in the background.

There may be enough talent, though I doubt it, but I just can’t see this team meshing and becoming a real competitive unit.

By Jared

January 13, 2009 3:23 PM | Link to this

Great signing. Only gave up dollars. Am a little concerned about not a having a left-hander in the rotation (unless they sign Tommy).

By dogsbrekky

January 13, 2009 3:24 PM | Link to this

ugazpa02

yes I was implying we TRADE for Dye, we need a BIG right handed bat versus the NL East with an abundance of LH pitchers..

X Man I am a little worried about as he really only hit his strides last year in a stacked line up wiht Yankees and a vastly improved Pirate hitting line up I DO NOT see him as a nos 4 hitter and he is a 1 yr rental

By Andre

January 13, 2009 3:32 PM | Link to this

If they add a big bat they can contend in the NL East

By George "Boston Brave" Spitz

January 13, 2009 3:36 PM | Link to this

In case no one noticed, Gregor Blanco’s 464 led the Venuezalan Leage in On Base Percentage. His 348 batting average was fourth and 20 of his 60 hits were for extra bases.

By westprice

January 13, 2009 3:43 PM | Link to this

lowe is a good signing. burnett is a comparable pitcher, but he has a lot more of a history with injuries. people seem to forget that john smoltz won’t even pitch until may or june. i wish him luck, but i don’t feel sorry for a guy that made 14 million last year while he spent most of that on the disabled list.

i think the braves should go after dunn now. he strikes out a lot but his walks make up for that, and the guy can hit. i think that andruw jones’ productive days in the majors are unfortunately behind him.

By Mitch

January 13, 2009 3:47 PM | Link to this

People talk about Lowe being a “Number three starter”. I dont see it that way. Let’s look at it this way. In the glory years, when Greg and Tom were here, and in their primes, wasn’t Smoltzie a three starter? He started on Opening Day, once, in 1997, after he had won the 1996 Cy Young. Our opening day starters the other 10 years were mostly Greg, and once, Tom. Smoltz, until he went to the pen, was a solid 15 plus game winner, who meshed into the rotation. Even when he came out of the pen in 2005, and in 2006 and 2007 when he was healthy, he won us 14-16 games, and was considered our “Ace”.

I’m one who believes that sometimes, a team has to make the best possible decision under the circumstances. For us, at this time, that was Lowe. We couldnt get Peavy, and we couldnt get Burnett. Lowe represents a good rotation upgrade, and was the best of what was left. Given the Hampton fiasco, am I concerned that Lowe might get injured and it would be a waste of money? Of course. We have to look at it this way: Mike Hampton was a young guy, relatively, when he came to us in the offseason of 2002. We had just had the shock of Tom leaving for the Mets, and I thought at the time “Great move”. Mike had two good years in 2003 and 2004, and then the problems started. There is no guarantee if you sign a 30 year old pitcher that he will stay healthy, as Mike proved, and there is no saying that a 36 year old pitcher will break down. Derek might well stay very healthy, win us 50 to 60 games over the next four years, or more, and turn out to be a great pickup.

I think this was a good signing. Frank had the money, and he showed aggressiveness. He signed three starting pitchers this winter, and really upgraded our rotation. If everyone stays healthy, I truly think we can compete for a wild card in 2009.

Good Move. I hope Tom can come back, and that we can sign a hitter. If we can do those things, we will have had a good winter, and we just might surprise people. Did anyone think we were going to win from 2003 to 2005? The “experts” picked us third in 2003 when Tom left and when Millwoord was traded away, third in 2004 whwn Greg left, and third in 2005. We won three more division titles than any of us probably expected, because we made some good moves, and our guys played better than many thought.

I think we will be a good team in 2009. I’m not saying we will win the East, but a wild card is a definite possibility.

By Old Fashioned Ray

January 13, 2009 3:50 PM | Link to this

If you want to”get over” the John Smoltz lack-of-a-deal,then GET OVER IT!!! But I will NOT forget that fiasco,EVER!!!

By ET

January 13, 2009 3:53 PM | Link to this

To the idiots that blame Wren for Smoltz going to Boston…You really don’t understand what transpired here. John Smoltz was just on ESPN and said that he would do anything to win with Boston including working out of the bull pen if needed…Isn’t this the same guy who just a few years ago said if he couldn’t be a starter with Atlanta he would sign elsewhere?

He wanted to leave because he didn’t think Atlanta was going back to the playoffs. He played is so that Wren ended up looking like the bad guy to the fans. I had a lot of respect for Smoltz until now. He made Wren the scape goat so he could leave and still look like he wanted to stay.

If Smoltz thought he could still pitch he should have taken the 10 million dollar contract we offered him…That’s right, ten million was on the table if he could pitch. That wasn’t the issue, Smoltz wanted to go to Boston and needed Wren to take the public hit for him. I’ll take Lowe at 36 and healthy instead of a 42 year old Smoltz who isn’t healthy or man enough to say he wanted to pitch elsewhere.

He wants you to think that 3 million extra dollars guaranteed for only breathing pushed him to Boston. Wren was only asking him to be on the roster for 60 days to recieve that extra money. Either Smoltz really doesn’t think he can pitch two months or as I said he wanted out.

By DavidH

January 13, 2009 3:55 PM | Link to this

Things are looking up! John who????

By Vince

January 13, 2009 3:57 PM | Link to this

CC Sabathia gets $160, The often injured Burnett $82.5 million, and is only a rats hair better than Lowe. You all think it’s ok to trade Esco and others for Peavy who is owed $83 million.

But $60 million is too much for Derek Lowe? Really? Really? brrrrrrhahahahaha oooookeydok.

Oh, and it’s not overpaying to give Smoltz who we don’t know can still pitch and who won’t be ready for 5 to 6 more months $5.5 million?????? REALLY???? NUTS!

Anyone who is saying we overpaid doesn’t understand the economics of baseball. Look around the league at what other #1 or #2 are getting. HECK….look at the 3’s $15M is the market price for a Derek Lowe-type pitcher.

He is durable, an innings-eater, a ground ball pitcher ( which is great considering our infield ), an exceptional big-game pitcher, and he is a winner. Plus, since he was a reliever for his first few years, he has significantly less innings on his arm than a typical 35-year-old.

Lowe is a GREAT fit for Atlanta…and the guy I wanted. ACE is a WORD. Bottom line is….he gives your team a great shot to win, and will be a 15 to 18 game winner for the next 2 years at least…and will be no more than our 3rd guy by 2010 when a guy his caliber will cost 20 million.

Rotation: Lowe; Jurrjens; Vazquez; Kawakami; Hanson ( the ace in waiting ) …… Campillo with Hudson on the mend is a FINE Rotation. VERY FINE. Anyone with a gripe is NUTS.

I say we add a bat ( Im for the ex-yankee ) and if we are in contention…make a move and be set for 2010 and beyond.

By dogsbrekky

January 13, 2009 4:00 PM | Link to this

Yes Mitch

Lowe rates higher than AJ Burnett and Peavy from last year on baseball prospectus and other stat sites, has won more game than any other pitchers bar Halladay and I think Oswalt over the last 7 years and is very tough/durable

He is a nos 1 even if he isn’t a flame throwing ACE

By NCBravesFan

January 13, 2009 4:01 PM | Link to this

Good pick up of Lowe - I’m glad they only went four years instead of five. $15 mill is a bit pricey in this economy, but it’s hard to argue with it too much given the Braves’ need and Lowe’s track record of being durable and consistent.

By Don

January 13, 2009 4:04 PM | Link to this

Peavy would have cost us top-of-the-line prospects & Burnett too much money. Wren saved 20 mil by signing Lowe and bought time until the prospects are ready. Now—take the same approach with the outfield. Either trade for a young power-hitter or sign an established one (Dye) till the youngsters mature. Jermaine would look good in right with Jeff in center and Matt in left. You’ve got help in the late innings with anderson and blanco.

By William in Pasadena

January 13, 2009 4:05 PM | Link to this

The Braves need to balance their lineup. We already have enough lefty batters. That’s why the need for Dye. You guys should already know how BC loves to play right handed batters against lefty pitchers, so imagine who would then be in the lineup against the likes of Hamel, Santana, etc. if we have sorry righty batters. Dunn strikes out a lot and Abreu would mean a lineup with too many lefties, unless we had Dye for the balance. I don’t think we should rely on Francouer.

By Rick Long

January 13, 2009 4:08 PM | Link to this

I always like Lowe more than Burnett from the outset. Even though he is older, he has a proven record of going to the post. Burnett has a proven record of breaking down and underachieving (other than during “contract” years). No one is a bigger fan of John Smoltz, but the fact of the matter is that he is 41, pitched 28 innings (for $14 million) last season, had shoulder surgey and most likely won’t be able to pitch until June or July at the earliest. I have also been as critical as anyone of Wren’s performance this offseason, but there is no way he could re-build a rotation around the “hope” that Smoltz and Glavine would come back. There are no guarantees in this sport, but he has signed or acquired in Lowe and Vazquez in particular pitchers who have a history of not being on the DL. Give him some credit where credit is due.

By Vince

January 13, 2009 4:09 PM | Link to this

In his final 10 starts, he was 6-1 with a 1.27 ERA. Since 2002, Lowe’s 106 wins tie him with Johan Santana for third-most in the majors behind Roy Oswalt (115) and Roy Halladay (113).

In his final 10 starts, he was 6-1 with a 1.27 ERA. Since 2002, Lowe’s 106 wins tie him with Johan Santana for third-most in the majors behind Roy Oswalt (115) and Roy Halladay (113).

In his final 10 starts, he was 6-1 with a 1.27 ERA. Since 2002, Lowe’s 106 wins tie him with Johan Santana for third-most in the majors behind Roy Oswalt (115) and Roy Halladay (113).

READ IT AGAIN….. DO IT! READ IT AGAIN…..

He was my choice from the start based on the money.

By CJ

January 13, 2009 4:09 PM | Link to this

Well said ET. I was leary of signing Smoltz and Glavine last year and my fears were realized. Both on the disabled list before the end of the season. I guess John wanted his retirement package early. Guaranteed money for a possibility that he will be able to perform.

I am not crazy about signing Lowe to a 4 year contract worth $60 mil. but at least he is healthy at this point. I just hope we don’t get another Mike Hampton ( a whole different story).

I would like to see a power bat in the outfield, as long as it is not Dunn. Him and Andruw are strikeout kings. Power only does so much good. Sooner or later you need a some average and discipline at the plate. Bobby Abreu may not be a bad choice, a proven hitter for average with decent power. I am sure there are others and Frank Wren may be going in different directions with trades.

Not a bad day by any means. The Japanese pitcher, Derek Lowe, Omar Infante, it’s coming together slowly.

By Paul Lentz

January 13, 2009 4:10 PM | Link to this

While I would have been ok with the Braves not spending the money on Lowe, I have no problem with the Lowe signing. There is a hell of a difference between a 35 year old workhorse with no history of arm injuries, vs a 42 year old with a gang load of arm and shoulder injuries. After the debacle of last years pitching staff, we have 3 guys at the top of the rotation who are at least 7 innings guys. While they may not have “dominant” stuff, they are pitchers who can get you deep in a game without having “ace material”. That means wonders for a bullpen. Our bullpen was way overworked last year. It showed in the second half of the season. Plus, it would be nice to get a complete game every once in awhile.

An extra $3 for Smoltz?: Please. Look, just because I think Wren letting Smoltz leave for the Red Sox was a good thing, does not mean that I dont appreciate what Smoltz did for us the 21 years he was with the Braves. It’s just that I dont feel that he is worth the invest in the future. Some of you fans just cant look past the past. You seem to take it personal. Well you are the kind of fans that I feel are hurting the Braves If you want nostalgia, go to an old timer’s game. I want the Braves to put players on the team who are healthy and who can actually pitch without fearing that the next pitch they throw is going to end their season.

With us having 4 starters now penciled in, the stress on filling the #5 spot is lessened. Bobby Cox can evaluate between a number of candidates. First, if Campillo shows that last year wasnt a fluke, he will probably get first crack. If Morton and Reyes show that they have made significant improvement in the off season, then perhaps them. Then there leaves Hansen. Chances are he’ll start the year in Triple A., unless he wows the Braves so much in Spring Training that Cox and Wren feel compelled to pencil him in the #5 spot come April. Either way, the pressure isnt so great to rush anything due to the top 4 spots being slotted.

However we all know that injuries can pop up when least expected. We know that sometimes pitchers can be ineffective and not live up to expectations. I have a feeling that due to their not being a left hander in the rotation that if Reyes has a good Spring, he may get dibs on the #5 spot. Campillo has the kind of arm that can fill the long relief role (if a starter gets knocked out early, he can pitch effectively for 4 or 5 innings, giving our offense a chance to get back in the game). If Morton has the potential to be a good starter in the Majors, then perhaps it would be prudent to have him pitch in the minors and keep his arm strength as a starter, along with Hanson. Either way, Wren and Cox have options. They can evaluate the various performances and health of these guys in Spring Training. It would be nice to have a surplus of a healthy mix of youth and veteran (veteran, not old) pitchers to pick from.

Braves fans were spoiled by having Maddux, Smoltz, and Glavine for as long as we did. I think that part of the “frustration” of these so called fans is that they keep comparing our current pitchers with these legends of the past. Well, having those guys at the same time happens once in a lifetime. However, that does not mean that we cant win with guys who are lesser quality.

Despite what many of you said about “Wren not doing anything” which is so foolish to say that keeping on commenting on it is probably a waste of time, I feel that he has done plenty of hard work and made some tough decisions. He has improved our rotation, not vastly overpaid, and gotten younger as a result.

I still feel that Wren has a few more moves left up his sleeve. The man has options now. He can either keep Johnson at second and go after a big bat in left with the surplus of free agents available. Or he can work a trade with the surplus of young pitching we have. Or he move Johnson to left and go after a lead-off type second baseman like Orlando Hudson (if Hudson would be interested in playing with the Braves). With the moves Wren has been able to make, he has a stronger position now to make a selling pitch to a quality second baseman like Hudson, if Braves management feels that going after Hudson would be a worthy move.

Many of you may not think much of the Ross signing, however I feel that having a decent back up catcher is so important. McCann wore down last year. When McCann didnt play, whoever we played at catcher was pretty much an easy out. However many of you cant see that because you are easily blinded by the need to make a big splash with a big name free agent signing.

Give Frank Wren a chance to shape this roster. You guys talk about him being arrogant and smug. So what. To make it far in professional sports, whether in management or on the field, one has to have a great deal of confidence. I would rather that Wren has those qualities, than to be a “nice guy” who caves in to pressure when others start “ripping him”. Wren has shown me that he will go after someone he deems desirable, yet exercise the discipline to back off when the price gets too high. Did he overpay for Lowe and the Japanese guy? Perhaps. However overpaying by a few million for a couple of guys who are healthy and can eat up a lot of innings (in other words, keep you competitive without taxing your bullpen) is worth the risk.

I’m excited to see what Wren has up his sleeve next, whether it is revealed next week, in February, or in Spring Training.

One more thing, to get 3 workhorse type starters, we didnt have to give up any of our prized prospects. Spring Training should be interesting, with they competition that will be happening in centerfield and the #5 spot in the rotation, along with a few bullpen spots.

By bravefalconhawk

January 13, 2009 4:12 PM | Link to this

GET OVER IT PEOPLE!!! SMOLTZ IS GONE…I THINK THE D.LOWE MOVE GIVES US A CHANCE TO COMPETE.HE MIGHT NOT BE A JOHAN SANTANNA OR COLE HAMELS BUT NOW I’LL TAKE THE BRAVES ROTATION OVER METS AND PHILLIES

By James Smith

January 13, 2009 4:16 PM | Link to this

Terrible. Stop calling a guy who has never been a number one starter in his life an ace. Why are we giving 15 million a year to a 35 year old. Why didn’t we get Jake Peavy? If Tommy Hanson doesn’t win a Cy Young in his career, the deal not made for Peavy will be known as money we gave to an out of his prime sinkerballer rather than actually getting an ace.

By Mitch

January 13, 2009 4:22 PM | Link to this

I dont know who if anyone is up for this question. I’ve already posted my feelings about Lowe. I’m curious to know what everyone thinks is going to happen to Tom now? Are we going to sign him, or, with our four starters in place, are we going to let him go, and pitch a rookie as the fifth starter, like Bobby often does?

My concern is this: We need a hitter. Unless I’m wrong with my calculations about how much money Frank had, he is all out of dough, or just about. What do we use to get a hitter, and, if we try to keep Tommy Glavine, what can we offer him? Tommy is now our number five starter, or at best, number four. The top three are Lowe, Vasquez, Jair.

Tommy made 8 mil last year for 2 wins. It seems to me that given his age, we cant offer him more than an incentive ladened, one to two million dollar deal, with conditions for innings pitched. Considering that we spent 8 mil for him last year, to get 2 wins, and 63 innings, and the fact that he will be 43 in March, it would not make business sense to offer him much. I’d hate to see him leave again, but Frank, even after what happened with Smoltz, cant give Tommy a big risky deal, that the Braves will have to eat, if Tom gets injured again.

I’m sorry to say, folks, my gut says Tommy is going to leave. He’s either going to retire, or go to Boston to join Smoltz. I have a hard time believing that considering our situation now, and the upgrades we made in our rotation, that Tommy is going to hang on, and stay here, for some 1 to 2 million dollar deal.

By dougG

January 13, 2009 4:24 PM | Link to this

Check out Lowe’s stats last year…he would have been a 20 game winner for the Dodgers if he would have had run support before Manny got there…good pickup!

By Bill

January 13, 2009 4:29 PM | Link to this

We basically swaped pitchers with the Red Sox (Lowe was a long time Sox pitcher)& got a guy who is younger & not injury prone, Smoltz was great but its time to move on to what can you do for the team now, Im tired of no playoff baseball in October around here, lets start a new run of titles Go Bravos!

By dogsbrekky

January 13, 2009 4:34 PM | Link to this

Maddux threw 91-92 mph at his MLB 1991-1996 peak then won > 150 games throwing max = 88 mph

Tommy G 90mph at his peak

Wins for the 2 = 660

Lowe is a winning ACE, EOFS….. Kawakami at 88 mph is a gun like the former 2 mentioned and only a smidge behind 18 game winner DICE-K

Well done FRANK “I wanted to kill you a week ago” Wren..

No more crying over SMOLTZY

By dogsbrekky

January 13, 2009 4:37 PM | Link to this

Mitch - we have approx 7-10$ left for a bat but suspect there will be trade and TOMMY G will be elsewhere in 2009 if at all

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 13, 2009 4:47 PM | Link to this

Lowe will be good at least this year and next year.

But here’s my question: the Braves were not contenders before they got Lowe. I think everyone agrees on that. So does signing Lowe make them contenders now?

Is the Lowe addition enough to make the Braves competitive with the Phillies and Mets?

In my opinion, no.

I hope I’m wrong. Certainly if the Braves get the most out of Vazquez and Kawakami this year they will have a pitching staff good enough to compete with anyone. But I still think the Braves’ best course of action long-term is to clean house and start over with prospects. Doesn’t look like that will be happening this year.

By THE BEAR

January 13, 2009 4:49 PM | Link to this

It would be difficult to find as many dumb people in one place as have shown up on this blog. For you whiners I have a few things to say.

And to that idiot who proposed the following: “How about trading Esco/KJ, Jo Jo, Morton for Peavy? Peavy shouldn’t have any complaints to pitch for Braves now..” I say, where is your head? Are you completely bonkers? You are proposing trading our infield and two pitchers for a pitcher we don’t even need? That is simply crazy.

And finally be thankful we have that money that could have easily been blown on Smoltz and Glavine. With it we can afford that heavy hitting outfielder. Smoltz and Glavine pitched 81 innings total combined last year and collected $22 million dollars. Don’t you think that is enough of the nostalgia trip? I do. It is time they both moved on. And although I have always been a strong Smoltz fan it is time for him to go wherever he wants to go. Apparently that was Boston. He deserted Atlanta; Atlanta did not desert him.

By richbrave

January 13, 2009 5:00 PM | Link to this

Until someone displaces him, I consider DL to be the #1 starter.

By John Pappas

January 13, 2009 5:02 PM | Link to this

good move but could have been for less money. I think John Smoltz is being greedy. Braves are getting a bad rap for not siging Smoltz. Did he give any money back for last year when he had 5 starts and made 14 million dollars? He did not think of that. Same for Mike Hampton.Was paid big bucks for 3 years and didn’t even pitch. Time to move on and give younger pitchers a chance. Former detroiter and Brave fan

By Bill

January 13, 2009 5:04 PM | Link to this

Dear Frank/John S., why the freak did we trade away Salty & a boatload of prospects for Texiera if you didnt intend on keeping him for more than one & a half seasons??? Switch hitting power guys that hit for a high average & win gold gloves dont grow on trees! DUMB move if you werent gonna pay him we could have kept Salty at first on the cheap now were stuck with Kotchman who is Adam LaRoche reinvented with less power!!!

By Paddy

January 13, 2009 5:13 PM | Link to this

Why hasn’t Leo Mazzone gotten a Big League job yet? Leo needs to be back in the “show”.

By jonny2cash

January 13, 2009 5:18 PM | Link to this

Thank God Smoltz is gone and now hopefully Glavine too. Lowe not great but better than what we had. We still need power hitting. Let’s go Wren. Also Smoltz chose to leave so we owe hi NOTHING just like we owed Glavine noothing when he went to the Mets.

By Paul Lentz

January 13, 2009 5:33 PM | Link to this

Kotchman is a much better hitter than he showed after the Texeria trade. Adjusting to a new league in mid-season (along with adjusting to the fact that he went from a World Series contender to a team with no chance to make the play-offs) had an effect on his hitting. Also, he was dealing with a personal family matter that weighed heavily on him. He is a good defensive first baseman who has power and can hit for a .300 average. I expect him to hit at least 20 homers with 35+ doubles and .300 next year.

Granted, in hindsight, the Texeria trade with Texas didnt pan out as expected. The Braves gave up a lot fo him. However at the time, the Braves were in the play-off race in July of 2007. It wasnt Texeria’s fault that the Braves fizzled out in the second half of 2007. It was injuries to the pitching staff and a pathetic bullpen. You cant blame Braves management for that.

Kotchman will be under the control of the Braves for the next few years. Plus the minor league pitcher we got from the Angels in that trade has promise.

Also, one “non move” that hasnt generated a lot of acclaim was Wren and Co. not giving in to pressure and signing Franceour to a big extension when they signed McCann to his. Signing McCann looks ingenious now. He will more than out perform that contract. If the Braves are smart, they will extend McCann in a few years. At the time, many Braves fans were clambering up for management to extend Franceour as well. From what I understand, Franceour wanted more money. When Braves management wouldnt bulge, Franceour gambled that he would make more money in arbitration. Well, the Braves rightly took their chances. Franceour will get far less in arbitration this year then he would have gotten in the extension that he was gambling he would get.

Look, I’m not here to bash Franceour. I feel that he has it in him to be a potentially very good player. He plays hard, has a cannon of an arm, can hit for power. However he has holes in his swing that need closing, he needs to show more discipline at the plate, and his defense needs improving (I watched a number of games where Franceour over ran a ball, took the wrong angle on a ball, or he over threw home plate trying to “show off” his cannon of an arm). McCann was the wiser investment, by far. I’m hoping that in time, Franceour will show that he is worthy of an investment as well.

By dogsbrekky

January 13, 2009 5:41 PM | Link to this

Frenchy has the worst swing in MLB

How he has deteriorated since his debut 1/3 season

By Josh

January 13, 2009 5:48 PM | Link to this

Unlike some posters, I would rather the Braves spend $15 mill a year on Lowe, who is not coming off of shoulder surgery, than to spend $5 mill on Smoltz, who IS coming off of shoulder surgery. I’ll take 200+ quality innings, thank you.

By Brian

January 13, 2009 5:49 PM | Link to this

Who cares about Smoltz at this point in his career! He won’t be fully ready until at least June or later, and that’s almost half a season wasted waiting on him! Besides, he left on his own will, the Braves offered what any sain person would offer a 42 yr. old pitcher coming off MAJOR surgery…I think some of you just want to bi* and moan no matter what! Grow up!!!!

By Bill

January 13, 2009 5:59 PM | Link to this

IF Hudson didnt get injured, IF we had kept Texiera, & IF we sign a stud left fielder (Abreu or Nady) could you imagine what kind of team we could have??? But please dont get cheap & bring back Andruw we dont want his 150+ strikeouts hes DONE

By Bravefan31

January 13, 2009 6:07 PM | Link to this

I don’t understand why everyone is complaing, first the Braves don’t have the payroll to sign a Sabathia or a Johan Santana, to give 80 mil to AJ Burnett who has only had two good seasons without being injured (both contract years) and as much as I love Smoltz, The Bravos can’t afford to pay him for a partial season the Redsox can. Also, Derek Lowe is considered an Ace, and he is an innings eater and doesn’t usually get injured. He’s not a power picther so why all the fuss?

Get a big bat, sign Andrew for cheap, if he somewhat pans our Bravos have a chance to seriously compete.

By Bruce

January 13, 2009 6:19 PM | Link to this

Lowe sucks and so will the Braves. I don’t know if I can even watch this year. Fire everyone in the front office.

By Braves

January 13, 2009 6:48 PM | Link to this

I like this deal. Lowe is a much better pitcher than Burnett who will be spending his cool millions on the disabled list by the 4th of July.

I really wish the Braves would release the contract details of the offer to Smoltz. I also think he wanted to be with a team that would seriously contend for another World Series, and I think he knows that’s not going to happen with the Braves this year.

I think if they add some power in the outfield they the Braves could at least compete for the wildcard.

By Original Jon

January 13, 2009 7:01 PM | Link to this

Bruce Youre and idiot

By samuel gore

January 13, 2009 7:07 PM | Link to this

It’s either a 35 year-old or some youngster who would have to be able to surprise us and I don’t think the Brave’s crippled scouting crew has done much to give us someone to be surprised about. They cut cost years ago by cutting back on their scouts and now they must go to other teams to find players.

By No Dice

January 13, 2009 7:19 PM | Link to this

Braves probably needed Lowe but geez!!!! 60 mil to a 36 year old pitcher of Lowe’s caliber is without doubt taking a huge gamble! So what if you get an effective and healthy Lowe for a couple of years? Then if he blows up the last two years you have in essence paid the guy 30 mil for two good years!

And Wren said signing Smoltz was a gamble? lol

By Wayne Kelley

January 13, 2009 7:21 PM | Link to this

At first I was upset at the Braves but I think Smoltz should take some of the blame. They paid him $130 million over his storied career and he left for $3 million more? Come on that’s greed. I wish John luck he was one of my favorites but it was his choice. As for the Braves signing Derek Lowe, who is worth $15 million anyway? But I like Lowe and always have, he’s a very good pitcher and we needed him to compete. Go Braves!

By VAROADRUNNER

January 13, 2009 7:29 PM | Link to this

It’s starting to get somewhat exciting again in Atlanta!

People calling other people names - People playing GM’s - all the grumbling and all of the optimism. Ain’t baseball great…..

By Brian

January 13, 2009 7:36 PM | Link to this

Lowe had character issues when he was in Boston. He couldn’t get them to give $8M / year. Why, four years later, does he deserve $15M / year when nothing has changed except he is now 4 years older? Something isn’t right. This is a bad deal.

By VAROADRUNNER

January 13, 2009 7:37 PM | Link to this

At this point, i am trying to identify exactly what the downside would be to invite ANDRUW JONES to spring training. Knee trouble, head trouble, etc has plagued him for the past two or so years, but we, in Atlanta, have seen what he can do. Hit for average? Maybe NOT. But hit home runs and drive in runs he has proven to be capable of doing. Maybe he has enough humble pie to be able to adjust that “I am a pull hitter” style to hitting the ball where it is pitched. HIs primary problems for the last two years has been his weight, his head and for however long, his knee. I know from experience, can’t hit well with bad legs. For all we know, he might be able to accomplish past performance standards. One thing is for sure, he can play center field. He’s woth a look — only a look.

Think about all the balls Frenchy couldn’t get to in Right center, Think about the left center gappers, maybe, just maybe we should look - soulds like it would be a cheap look too.

By Lowe's Not Enough

January 13, 2009 7:44 PM | Link to this

Let’s see, what will their records be? About the best I can see based on histories and non-ML time.

Lowe: 15-10, 3.75 Jari: 12-8, 3.45 Kawa: 6-12, 5.24 Vaz: 9-13, 4.88 Glavine: 1-2, 7.98 Hanson: 5-2, 3.88 Morton: 2-5, 4.98 Reyes: 1-5, 6.66 Closers: 3-5, 3.74, 24 saves, 17 blown Team Record: 70-92, out of race by June 22nd.

By Nate In Maine

January 13, 2009 7:48 PM | Link to this

Red Sox Fan Hey eat it. I love smoltz he was a great player but I think he took the money and ran with it. The Red sox wont go to the world series and I will bet the farm. Smoltz wont be ready til May or June and his arm will tighten up once that cold weather hits. He wont beable to throw to the freakin mound. TO ALL THE REDSOX FANS ENJOY SMOLTZ IN THE UNIFORM KNOW BECAUSE HE WONT BE THERE NEXT YEAR. Go Bravos.

By William in Pasadena

January 13, 2009 8:00 PM | Link to this

My comment is in response to The Bear. First of all, what makes you so snart, and where do you get off calling people idiots? I do think you are an ID 10 T. This is because you apparently can’t read. I proposed KJ, JoJo and Morton for Peavy. How is that trading the infield since I didn’t mention Chipper, Escobar or Kotchman? You appear to have the typical Braves mentality of using a boat load of average players. You need 3 to 4 studs to win now. Peavy would be a bonafide ace. Currently, all we have is maybe one sure thing (Lowe) and a lot of average maybes on the pitching staff. I still say trade some of those average guys for a couple of stars. Take a look at Boston, the Yankees and Mets, and Phillies. Your type of “wisdom” is exactly why we won only 1 WS. You need power pitchers and great hitters to go deep into the playoffs. The Braves relied too much on soft tossers and average hitters.

By the wizard

January 13, 2009 8:07 PM | Link to this

LOL..The Tomahawk Choppers will fight it out with the Nationals for last place in the NL East! I love it!

By joeye4

January 13, 2009 8:09 PM | Link to this

Yikes whats up with you guys hating Red Sox fans. I never hated the Braves or thier fans. I like the move to get Lowe, He is a real gamer with a great sinker. He was great for us especially when we needed him. Good luck to him and the Braves.

Die Hard Sox Fan

By Ronald Millsaps

January 13, 2009 8:11 PM | Link to this

When this free-agent season began, the whole premise of this $40-million rhetoric was that the Braves would keep at least John Smoltz and Tom Glavine and would use the remaining revenue to pursue other pitching (perhaps Mike Hampton, even) and also some slugging prowess. I can more than live with the Hampton departure. I have nothing against him, but he is not a true Brave and only pitched fairly well, not very well, down the stretch. Then we heard about Jake Peavy…and heard…and heard…and heard. We heard about Tommy Hanson and how well he was pitching in Arizona and how the Braves considered him un-tradeable. Then we heard about how we could acquire Peavy without trading Yunel Escobar or Kelly Johnson (for the record, I’m VERY glad—TOTALLY glad, actually—that the Braves kept all three). Then the Braves acquired Javier Vazquez. Okay, so maybe I didn’t want to see Brent Lillibridge or Tyler Flowers go, but the move was very prudent, as Vazquez could produce (strikeouts) and reduce (bullpen innings). Bobby has made way too many calls to the bullpen in the fourth and fifth innings, so, yes, the Braves earned a “check” mark on this one. Frank Wren spent too much time mulling over Peavy, who would’ve been a luxury, not a necessity. Our rotation might’ve lacked an ace on Opening Night, but it also lacked a guy who looked to be vulnerable to opposing hitters. Also, we have to focus on “on Opening Night.” Just because Atlanta might’ve lacked an ace on Opening Night didn’t mean Wren and co. needed to dent team chemistry by trading core players for an unnecessary luxury. To continue on this point, Atlanta had Smoltz returning in May or June, not to mention Tim Hudson—another ace—returning hopefully in August. In addition, of course, Tommy Hanson was grooming through it all. Throughout the entire pursuit of Peavy and the subsequent pursuit of Rafael Furcal—and the subsequent controversy—Wren ignored the face of the franchise, who waited patiently for a respectful offer that never arrived. If this story sounds familiar, it should. After the 2002 season, Tom Glavine waited patiently for a respectful offer while John Schuerholz pursued Hampton. Glavine got snubbed and countered by leaving. Why should we have expected any differently from Smoltz? HOW HARD or risky would it have been to have given an “extra” three million guaranteed dollars to the man who has done more for this franchise than anyone else, never mind the fact that most of the people the team pursued were OUT OF THE PICTURE AT THIS POINT ANYWAY????????? In other words, the three million not offered really wasn’t going anywhere!!!!!!!!!! I feel better today than I did a week ago. I’m glad that Derek Lowe is here, and I welcome Kenshin Kawakami. Our rotation is better now than it has been in some time. I just can’t believe, though, that, amidst all the hype of the un-acquirable C.C. Sabathia, that we would ignore a guy who could OUTPITCH Sabathia today, a guy who WANTED to remain here, a guy who SHOULD’VE remained here, and a guy who DIDN’T remain here…all for three million blamed, lousy, unnecessary dollars—which couldn’t be used, really, anyway, because as I said, MOST PEOPLE on the market either were gone or all-but-signed elsewhere!!!!!!! After Smoltz left for Boston, I checked my e-mail the following morning and saw an advertisement for Braves spring-training tickets. The timing couldn’t have been worse.

By Braves WIll WIn

January 13, 2009 8:13 PM | Link to this

Lowe’s Not Enough: YOU MY FRIEND ARE A IDIOT. 70-92 WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!! Folks this is a Mets fan. We are already better than the Mets at this point. Sign a great LF and let Francine get back to his old ways. LOOOOOOOOOK OUUUUUUUUUT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Scott S.

January 13, 2009 8:27 PM | Link to this

Lend me your ear for a moment Braes fans. Is it possible that Andruw was so heart broken knowing he was leaving the Braves that he simply fell a part? The players are human and he was quoted to saying that he thought of Cox as a second father having grown up basically a Brave. I think he will come back to the Braves, win cf position, and cork 25 homers with great defense not the otherworldly defense he used to but still above average. And also Javier Vazquez has also always wanted to be a Brave. He should have been here sooner but mark my words he also will give more than we have seen from him with other organizations. Go Bravos!!!

By Peter

January 13, 2009 8:33 PM | Link to this

Well this is a good sign……. two guys they picked up, and the Japanese pitcher all seem capable of pitching big innings……that will help the bull pen…….

Now if we can score some runs consistently and play defense ?

By jeremyoo7

January 13, 2009 8:55 PM | Link to this

I would rather have ben sheets. Derek Lowe is not a number 1 pitcher. Get ready for a last place divison finish.

By jeremyoo7

January 13, 2009 8:55 PM | Link to this

I would rather have ben sheets. Derek Lowe is not a number 1 pitcher. Get ready for a last place divison finish.

By Paul Lentz

January 13, 2009 9:12 PM | Link to this

Hey WILLIAM, you are not a very bright person if you think that your “proposed” trade of KJ, Jo Jo, and Morton for Peavy would ever happen. There is no way the Padres would take that trade. NEVER. While I think that trading for Peavy would be highly risky (but also very rewarding if he is healthy), I would make that trade in a heartbeat if the Padres were foolish enough to go for it.

Some of you Braves fans crack me up. Some of these “proposed” trades that some of you “geniuses” come up with are not realistic. Yet some of you will come on here and bash Frank Wren because he wont “make” the trade that you propose. You call him an idiot for not taking your advice. Amazing.

Also, your “you need 3 or 4 studs” to win now days is highly inaccurate. Look at the Phillies. Of Hammels, Moyer, Blanton, Myers…only Hammels is considered a “stud”. The others are decent pitchers who can give you 6 or 7 solid innings, in effect relying on that great bullpen of theirs to close out games.

There is no “one” way to win. Try actually using some logic before you post your “insight”.

Also, to SCOTT S…..You attributing Andrew’s “slump” to being heartbroken over leaving the Braves is totally unreal. His “slump” began the year before he left. Andrew is not the same player he was 2 years ago. It would be a foolish waste of time and resources to give him a chance. Once you “break up” with someone, sometimes it is best to just move on. There are other “fishes in the sea”.

When it comes to Glavine, Smoltz, Andrew and the rest of these injured over the hill players that some of you crave, you are no different than the “battered woman” who keeps going back to her husband because she cant help but remember the “good times” and how he “used to be”. People tell on themselves, with their actions (in the case of baseball players, with their play, or lack of it, on the field).

By KnoxvilleDave

January 13, 2009 9:26 PM | Link to this

Solid pitcher. Three years for 45 mil would have been a great trade for such a workhouse. The deal he got seems steep, given his age and the current economy. I feel (a whole lot) better if we add Sheets. Still irritated that we let Smoltz get away from us. Such a competitor and a leader.

By Karl

January 13, 2009 9:34 PM | Link to this

The braves would not spend millions on signing Glavine or Maddux (sure hall of famer even then) when they were 36 plus. BUT Frank Wren somehow can justify $60 million for Lowe who is not half the pitcher Glavine of Maddux were. There is a reason why no other team offered that much money. Whey to screw braves fan even more FW.

By bill

January 13, 2009 10:28 PM | Link to this

Good move. Now trade Johnson and Anderson for Dye. Prado will be a better second baseman and you got to think at least one of the young cf prospects (I think there are 3) will be ready.

By Paul Lentz

January 13, 2009 10:29 PM | Link to this

Lowe is a better pitcher than both Maddux and Glavine were at 36. I fondly remember both before they became free agents. However their careers after they left the Braves were medicore at best. I feel that Lowe has more left in the tank to be a quality starter than both Maddux and Glavine did at age 36.

By Paul Lentz

January 13, 2009 10:35 PM | Link to this

I wish fellow Braves fans would use some logic when making statements they “freely” put online. Sure, we all have a “right” to our opinions. However just because you have a “right” to do something, doesnt mean that it is actually good to “exercise” that right.

Over paying for Lowe? So the Mets supposedly offered Lowe 3 years at 36 mill. That is an average of 12 mill a year. We’re paying Lowe 15 mill a year. That “extra” 3 mill that many of you were clambering for the Braves to fork over to Smoltz, instead went to a pitcher who is more than likely going to pitch the whole year for us, and pitch over 200 innings. Smoltz wont be back at least until June. And we all know about “setbacks”, particularly with older players returning from injury. I’d much rather overpay and give the extra 3 mill a year to Lowe than Smoltz.

Compared to last year, we are going to pay Lowe 1 mill more (15 vs. 14) than we paid Smoltz last year. However I am pretty sure that we are going to get more than 5 starts from Lowe.

Compared to last year, we are going to pay Vazquez almost 6 million less than we paid Hampton last year. I’m pretty sure that we’ll get more than a month of service from Vazquez as well.

Compared to last year, we are going to pay the Japanese pitcher the same amount of money that we paid Glavine. Again, I’m pretty sure that we will get more than 2 months of service from the Japanese pitcher.

When looking at it in those terms, not only are we paying less money for 3 solid pitchers, but we’ll save wear and tear on our bullpen, which will translate into paying less money to potentially broken down pitchers (like Soriano). He’s contract is up at the end of this year.

Give Frank Wren a chance. Am I 100% satisfied with what we have? Of course not. I’m sure that Wren will tell you the same thing. However I am pleased with what he has done to shape this roster so far. We are in better shape to make moves in the future. Be patient. In this day and age of sports turnarounds, the Braves will compete in the National League East.

By William in Pasadena

January 14, 2009 12:30 AM | Link to this

Everyone is entitled to their opimion. But what gets me is when guys like Paul Lentz and The Beat only read part of what you say. Paul didn’t mention “prospect” as I proposed. And he jumped to a conclusion assuming I meant 3 pitching studs. Howard, Utley, Hamel and Rollins are studs. If we stretch the word, Lowe would be a stud to go along with Chipper. As I said, everyone is entitled to their opinion. So keep the boat load of average to good players and finish 3rd.

By Casey Hodges

January 14, 2009 1:39 AM | Link to this

I like Lowe alot. Everytime I saw him against the Braves, he shut us down, quite technically and economically. But with each passing year, it gets harder and harder to be excited about this team because of the givens: You know the pitching staff is going to break down because of poor management, Chipper’s games-played ceiling is 90, and we will be one of the worst teams in all of baseball at extra bases, stolen bases, run-manufacturing, fanfare, and attendance. Not to mention that one of the top five faces in all of Braves franchise history, is gone to pitch in a REAL baseball town. Besides Escobar’s fielding, McCann’s overall game, and the pitching of Jurrgens and possibly Lowe, there’s no sustainable, dependable entertainment value to this team, let alone competition for the division crown. Whoo-hoo!!!

By Bo

January 14, 2009 7:46 AM | Link to this

Good news. He will help strengthen the rotation. Only problem is no lefty. In all the coverage over the winter haven’t heard a word about Tim Hudson. How is he doing??

By brian22

January 14, 2009 8:50 AM | Link to this

The Braves expect Huddy back in August.

By proeye

January 14, 2009 8:56 AM | Link to this

Tim Hudson??? Don’t count on finding out any news about Hudson for awhile yet. I’ll be surprised if he has even touched a baseball yet. He still has another 8 months in his comeback bid—and that’s a minimum. He may not come back at all this season depending on his progress from here on out. I believe it has only been 4 months since the injury (August I believe).

These kinds of injuries take up to 12-16 months so we may not see him until spring training 2010.

By proeye

January 14, 2009 9:31 AM | Link to this

FYI…

I should have said, these kinds of surgeries can translate into a pitcher taking up to 12-16 months to fully recover and pitch well again. So if Huddy comes back in August that will be nice but we may not need him depending on what happens to our 1-5 starters.

If Hudson makes a come back in August and Lowe, Vasquez, Jurrjens, Kawakami, and whoever is #5 all pitch well, AND Hanson makes a big splash, this team could be VERY PITCHING RICH going into 2010.

By proeye

January 14, 2009 9:35 AM | Link to this

I’m not sure if my last post went through so I’m going to paraphrase.

I’ve changed my stance on the Braves since they have picked up 3 starters. If Kamakazi can show he can pitch in America, this rotation has the potential to be very good. No, they don’t have Cy Young stuff, but having good to decent 1-5 can win a lot of games.

So I think they have the potential to finish in the top 3 in ERA in the NL. Chicago will be there and the Mets could as well if they sign Oliver Perez. The Dodgers may move down a bit since they lost their #1 starter (Lowe) and Milwaukee lost their ace and may lose their #2 in Sheets. I really don’t see any other team contending for the ERA title so I think the Braves could be there.

If anything I think Jurrjens has the biggest upside. He has only pitched one season and his second could be even better. He has shown tremendous poise as if he has been in this league 5 years already so I don’t see him slipping at all. He is only going to keep improving with maturity.

I think we all know that the Braves bullpen could be scary good if Soriano comes back and Moylan and Gonzalez pitches at full strength. Gonzalez’ biggest problem last year was that he just was not at 100%. Hard to say here, but at least Soriano FINALLY got some surgery. I think this has been his problem all along. He was just pitching hurt. He never panned out in Seattle so we’ll see…

Offensively, I see a lot of upside. So many of you have written off Kotchman, I assume because you are all smarting from the Texieira trade. But he was a hitting machine in the minors and he really is a Sean Casey clone. I think in a career year he could hit .330 with 20 homers. If nothing else, he is a gold glove caliber first baseman.

We have yet to see a break out year from Escobar so that could be coming. We’ve seen glimpses so far. Kelly Johnson too. Francoeur could have a come back since he can’t be THAT bad. I think he is just frustrated as heck .But I don’t see him batting any better than .250 with 20 home runs because he just has too many holes in his swing and I think pitchers have him figured out. He’s just too much of a free swinger to make me think he’ll be any good. Hopefully I’m dead wrong.

Center and left field is an issue so if the Bravos can pick up Nady or Dunn, I’ll be happy. I’m not too excited about Nick Swisher. What in the world do any of you see in this guy? HE CAN’T HIT! He only batted .219 last year and he is a career .244 hitter. Sure he draws walks but he won’t for long if he keeps batting .220. Please tell me what any of you see in this guy.

Who knows what the Braves are going to get out of CF but if they get a decent year out of Josh Anderson and if Schaefer makes any kind of contribution, we may be okay. But then the Bravos have the option of making a trade any time between now and July to shore up this position if everything poops out.

Given that the Braves finished in the top 6 in scoring and management seems motivated to acquire a good hitting left fielder, I see they either finishing the same or better than #6.

2009 could be a very interesting year in Atlanta!

By Chris

January 14, 2009 9:59 AM | Link to this

You perennial optimists amuse me. Lowe is slightly above average, Kazukami is unproven, and this remains a very weak team, with a weak infield (supposedly the team’s strength) and a below-minor league level outfield. Pitiful.

By john

January 14, 2009 3:56 PM | Link to this

I like Derek Lowe from his time in beantown. He’s a good, reliable starter.

But if a guy who won 14 last year for a team that went to the playoffs, and hasn’t won more than 16 games in 5 years is your “ace” …. good luck.

Smoltz. was interviewed on Boston radio yesterday and he seems like a great guy and great addition to the team, whatever he may do on the W-L column.

By joeye4

February 1, 2009 9:23 PM | Link to this

Lowe is an excellent pitcher as long as your infield does its job. Lots of ground balls and he is great in clutch games. Getting Smoltz is a good deal for the Sox but getting Lowe is even better for the Braves.