Griffey to Atlanta: Nevermind
Editor Note: Because of technical problems, we’ve copied Dave’s 12:26 a.m. entry here so that you can continue commenting. For now we’re limiting the display to just the latest 100 comments. For full explanation please read the explanation from our geeks.
Lake Buena Vista, Fla. — Uh, oh.
Ken Griffey Jr. crushed the Braves’ hopes Wednesday night, and did a pretty good number on my evening, too.
Two days after Griffey told a close friend that he planned to sign with the Braves — which we reported in the AJC, to the chagrin of Griffey, his agent, and the Braves — the outfielder reversed course and decided to go to the Mariners, the team he played for during the first 11 seasons of his illustrious career.
It’s the fourth time in four months the Braves fell short pursuing a star they thought they had a good chance to get (including one, Rafael Furcal, they said they had an oral agreement with) and now general manager Frank Wren will have to look elsewhere to boost an outfield that had just 27 homers in 2008.
It was a stunning reversal for the Braves, after they read and heard many reports that indicated Griffey was going to sign with Atlanta to stay closer to his family in Orlando and play for manager Bobby Cox.
Braves players came to the ballpark Wednesday hoping Griffey might be suited up for their first full-squad workout. They’ll come to the ballpark Thursday morning asking what the hell happened.
“All signs are good,” third baseman Chipper Jones said Wednesday morning, but he was quick to add that he wouldn’t get too excited until Griffey signed on the dotted line. Previous experience this offseason had made Jones very cautious with his optimism. Smart man.
Jones had talked to Griffey daily for the past week and seemed confident he was coming to the Braves. “But I’m not going to smile until he’s signed,” Jones said, alluding to the previous times the Braves were jilted this winter.
Well, he’s signed. With the Mariners.
And for the past three hours or so, I’ve taken a beating on the ol’ blog here. Hey, bring it. I hear ‘ya and understand the passion. Your team has taken you on a rollercoaster of emotions a bunch of times this winter, but all in all, this isn’t nearly as impactful as, say, losing out on Jake Peavy or even Rafael Furcal, who’d have been the leadoff man the Braves lack.
Griffey was going to be a platoon left fielder, most likely. The Braves can still go get another free agent, like Garret Anderson, if they want to. Or suck it up and spend a couple extra mill, if necessary, to take on the salary of a Nick Swisher or Xavier Nady, giving up a prospect or two in such a deal if that’s what it takes, if that’s what they believe is really necessary to shore up this lineup.
In the meantime, here’s a response I had to one of the many scathing missives directed at me on the other blog tonight, before I posted this new one.
Occasionally you’re going to be castigated by angry fans for reporting something that doesn’t turn out as planned, and in this case what obviously makes it worse is published speculation at MLB.com that our story had something to do with Griffey’s decision.
And I’m not blaming Mark Bowman at all for writing it, because I was standing there today when Frank Wren said Griffey’s agent all but ended communication with the Braves right after our AJC story came out Tuesday.
But let’s be clear: What we wrote was a story that said Griffey told a close friend that he had decided to play for the Braves over the Mariners. We wrote it, because that’s what the close friend told our Terry Moore, who goes back a long way with them (Moore is from Cincy, like Griffey).
We did not write that Griffey had agreed to a contract, or that he’d even told the Braves he was going to sign with them. We wrote that Griffey told his good friend that he had decided to play for the Braves.
Now, as for the headline in today’s paper, I knew nothing of it until tonight, when someone at the paper informed me that it said “Griffey to play for Braves.” Folks, I’m in Florida, and I send my stories to the paper, not headlines. I have absolutely no control over headlines in the paper.
Far as I know, neither Mark Bradley nor I wrote that Griffey was definitely going to play for the Braves. Again, we wrote that he told his friend that he’d decided to play for the Braves. And that it looked like a deal would get done.
Now, if our story actually had any influence on Griffey’s decision, if Griffey is actually flighty enough to change such an important decision, to go play across the continent after telling others that he was going to play for Atlanta in large part because of the proximity to his family … well, then I’m flabbergasted.
If that’s actually the case. If he’d let his purported anger over that story affect his decision … well, that just seems a bit far-fetched to me.
Anyway, we wrote a story that said he’d told a friend he would be playing for Atlanta this season. Now he’s going to play for Seattle, and I’ll take a beating on the blog. But I’m a big boy. I can live with that.
If we’d written something that was erroneous, if I’d written that Griffey had agreed to terms with the Braves, that’d be one thing. We did not write that, at least I don’t think we did.
Anything I said on this blog the past two days, about how I still believed he was coming to play for the Braves, etc., I was giving you my opinion. I thought that was understood. This is a blog. I give opinions.
Again, I can live with the harsh criticism. Goes with the job, once in a while when something like this happens. Hopefully, just once in a great while.
Now, as I promised in this morning’s blog I would do if he changed his mind, here’s a new song for Ken Griffey Jr.
“GOING, GOING, GONE” by Bob Dylan
I've just reached a place
Where the willow don't bend.
There's not much more to be said
It's the top of the end.
I'm going,
I'm going,
I'm gone.
I'm closin' the book
On the pages and the text
And I don't really care
What happens next.
I'm just going,
I'm going,
I'm gone.
I been hangin' on threads,
I been playin' it straight,
Now, I've just got to cut loose
Before it gets late.
So I'm going,
I'm going,
I'm gone.
Grandma said, "Boy, go and follow your heart
And you'll be fine at the end of the line.
All that's gold isn't meant to shine.
Don't you and your one true love ever part."
I been walkin' the road,
I been livin' on the edge,
Now, I've just got to go
Before I get to the ledge.
So I'm going,
I'm just going,
I'm gone.
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873 comments Add your comment
2Parc
February 19th, 2009
12:34 pm
Alec Baldwin in Glengary Glen Ross:
“A – B – C – always be closing.”
Ben Affleck in Boiler Room:
“Remember Glengary Glen Ross? A – B – C – always be closing.”
blah blah blah
2Parc
February 19th, 2009
2:00 pm
don’t like Gonzalez… didn’t like Griffey… on the fence about G. Anderson… and don’t like Edmonds… where’s Charles Thomas when you need him?
Coxlover
February 19th, 2009
2:00 pm
2Parc, with Glavine we have more pitchers unless he gets injured, which at age 43 i would be very surprised if he doesn’t get injured at some point this year.
nolie
February 19th, 2009
2:01 pm
I guess you think Diaz is better than Griffey ?
Against lefties? no question Diaz is better now.
Coxlover
February 19th, 2009
2:02 pm
JournalistJeff, I didn’t read the article on the AJC because my computer was acting up at the time. So all I read was the headline that said ” Griffey signs with Braves”
Bravesgal
February 19th, 2009
2:03 pm
Dtown – why should DOB take the blame for the headline? He did not write it.
2Parc
February 19th, 2009
2:03 pm
And then, Coxlover (ahem)… you now have depth and a choice of other pitchers to fill the void.
John Quest
February 19th, 2009
2:03 pm
Just because I mention a few languages now I’m a basher? You are very thinned skinned, masivatack. I will refrain from similar comments.
Sorry.
BravesFanInRockies
February 19th, 2009
2:03 pm
John Quest,
You’re dead wrong about ESPN. They report almost all their own stuff using staff reporters. Their problem is being spread thin and being based in the NYC area. They seem to be a lot more interested in teams along the Boston-NYC-DC corridor (and in the nation’s other mega media market — LA) than in those around the rest of the country.
National networks have almost always shared those flaws. I’ll be interested to see if MLB Network does a better job covering the entire sport, not just the Red Sox, Yankees, Mets and Dodgers.
2Parc
February 19th, 2009
2:04 pm
The headline said ‘Griffey chooses Braves’ – nothing about signing.
Bud Selig
February 19th, 2009
2:05 pm
Look, when I hear people say “The Commissioner turned a blind eye to David O Brien’s irresponsible reporting” that irritates the you-know-what out of me. The truth is, I’ve been championing responsible reporting for years, now, and I think Major League Baseball has come farther than any sport in taking steps to clean up this mess.
tulsabravo
February 19th, 2009
2:05 pm
“Goes with the job, once in a while when something like this happens.” Once in a while?
David O'Brien
February 19th, 2009
2:06 pm
Really does sound like Braves are going to give the young guys a chance to show they can handle CF and LF (along with Matt Diaz). Josh Anderson, Brandon Jones, Jordan Schafer and Gregor Blanco are all going to get consideration, get to show what they can do this spring.
PTBNL
February 19th, 2009
2:06 pm
KC, the other day you admitted that your conclusions about Smoltz were speculative. Why do you insist on repeatedly claiming them as dyed in the wool facts? Please, if you are going to say such things over and over, acknowledge that it is your belief that Smoltz left for bla, bla, bla. You should respect Smoltz enough not to speak for him without his telling you what he is thinking.
From the facts that we know, it is possible that what you have said about his reasons for going to the Sox is true. But the facts are very skimpy and leave many possibilities available. You seem to have chosen one and convinced yourself that it is the truth, when you really don’t know that it is true…. and have admitted that it is speculation.
So again, let your “beliefs” be known…. as beliefs… not as facts.
Thanks.
dondi123
February 19th, 2009
2:07 pm
Based on the reporting in this blog and elsewhere, the Braves / Wren have tried and failed to cut deals for Peavy, Burnett, Furcal, Smoltz and Griffey in the last 4 -5 months.
In the Schuerholz era, I don’t believe the world would have known that all those misses had happened. So, Scheurholz was either 1) a better deal-maker or 2)better at keeping news / negotiations under wraps. Which one do you think it is, DOB?
PTBNL
February 19th, 2009
2:08 pm
David, are player visits to the blog out of the question any more because of the bad experience yesterday?
BravesFanInRockies
February 19th, 2009
2:09 pm
Bud Selig,
Good one.
David O'Brien
February 19th, 2009
2:09 pm
Workout shortened by rain today, but Braves got everything in except their extra BP that some guys take at the end.
Cox was impressed by Kawakami’s session today, as the man with the large media entourage (yes, still following his every move) added the curveball to the mix. He’s on his own schedule, being permitted to come along slowly at first, as he prefers. Threw fastballs and curveballs today, after only fastballs in his first two ‘pens.
He’ll face hitters for the first time Saturday.
Workouts are 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, by the way. Because of physicals in the a.m. both days.
2Parc
February 19th, 2009
2:09 pm
Good… let the boys give it a shot… I like the non-Yankee approach anyway.
DOB – ever heard of Outformation? Local southern rock band?
nolie
February 19th, 2009
2:09 pm
Platooning is admitting you don’t have a good enough player to play that position. Either let Diaz play 162 (minus a few games off) games there or get a player that will. Why don’t they also platoon McCann,Francoeur,KJ,Yunel,Chipper,Kotchman,etc. if its the way to go ?
Everyone except Chipper has a worse average against either lefties or righties. Boom. ROBDAWG
so what? You’re making a lot of foolish statements today.There is absolutely nothing wrong with platooning. The Orioles and Yanks for instance did a huge amount of winning with platoons on a regular basis.
Trent
February 19th, 2009
2:09 pm
Not to add confusion my post was to “Shut up DOB”….not the actual DOB
Billy Walsh
February 19th, 2009
2:09 pm
Robdawg08
On which teams would Andy Petite and Phil Hughes be an ace on? Did you see Petite pitch after the all star break last year? Phil Hughes hasn’t one a MLB game since the 2007 season. Burnett has ace ability but he is never healthy and Wang is coming off a major injury. The only bona fide ace on the Yanks staff is CC. Give me the Rays starting five anyday. Price is going to be a stud…along with Kazmir, Garza, Shields, and Sonnanstine. I agree with you on the platoon. Starting the year with a Diaz/Jones platoon would be a disaster. Wren needs to find an everyday LF and have Diaz and Jones come off the bench.
2Parc
February 19th, 2009
2:09 pm
Coxlover – you know what happens when you assume….
Danga
February 19th, 2009
2:10 pm
I am all for giving the young guys a chance. All of the in house options are certainly better defensive options. Lets see what the Bravos can do with a strong pitching staff and good defense. Hopefully, we do the little things well and actually win some 1 run ball games this year.
Billy Walsh
February 19th, 2009
2:10 pm
I think the Rays will be even better than last year
BravesFanInRockies
February 19th, 2009
2:11 pm
FWIW, RotoAuthority rated our own Javy Vazquez as the seventh-best starting pitcher in baseball for fantasy leagues. Lowe is 27, Kawakami 30, JJ 63.
lfp6
February 19th, 2009
2:11 pm
I overheard a discussion about Griffey at my work.
Mr. A.: Well, if Junior plays for us, I hope he gets his stroke back.
Mr. B.: Oh he’ll get a stroke, allright….just not the one youre thinking.
Junior IS 39, and I’m willing to wager that he did NOT want to platoon, hence going back to Seattle.
As for Frenchy, this year is ‘put-up or shut-up’, imho ^^. Oh, and no arbitration for Jeff: he and the Braves went with a 3.375M USD contract.
Lastly, getting us another boom-stick OF…Garret Anderson does look like a possibility that should be investigated, but will we be able to afford him?
The Artist Formerly Known as Too Hot For Teacher
February 19th, 2009
2:11 pm
glad to hear the Spring Training updates. Once some hitters face Kawakami we’d be interested to hear what they have to say – seeing how nobody has ever faced him before.
John Quest
February 19th, 2009
2:11 pm
BravesFanintheRockies, I listen to ESPN quite a bit, and many of their lead in stories are prefaced with, “XYZ and Co. are reporting……., or ESPN has learned……”. This is my point. They do have many reporters in the field, but I usually find a story on the internet long before I hear it on ESPN.
Friday The 13th Remake Was Okay
February 19th, 2009
2:12 pm
I dont blame DOB, I blame Franky “gorgy fan” Wren. Its going to be a terrible season for us brave fans. I hope some people have Fire Wren signs at the ball park, but lets face it this team is going to struggle this year…Hopefully if Frank bombs next winter he gets a good talking to by the head guys and maybe quit or get fired.
I do have to ask DOB, if you were to put a record on this upcoming season as of right now what do you think? Sadly I think something along the lines of last year, but I dont see us winning more than 60 games this year.
JSS
February 19th, 2009
2:12 pm
DOB, what kind of reviews is Tommy Hanson getting so far? You mentioned earlier that Chipper was impressed with his stuff…
NotForMe
February 19th, 2009
2:13 pm
He’s still one of the best defensive third basemen in the game (though few people seem to realize that), KC
actually I’d say that you and a few other homers are about the only ones in the world who “realizes” that. At one time he was one of the very worst fielders in baseball. He is somewhat better since returning, but more like in the middle than one of the best.
BravesFanInRockies
February 19th, 2009
2:13 pm
BTW, on those fantasy predctions, Braves are one of three teams with three starters ranked in the top 30; other two are Yankees and Cubs.
Just a Fan
February 19th, 2009
2:14 pm
DOB YOU ARE THE MAN. LOVE YOUR BLOGS. KEEP IT UP.
I live in NYC and you are one of my main sources of info on my beloved braves. Much love.
Just a Fan
Coxlover
February 19th, 2009
2:14 pm
Friday, I agree that this could be a very long year for the Braves. I think the Braves will win around 75-80 games. That’s assuming that Chipper stays healthy and Frenchy has a better year. If Chipper is hurt a lot and Frenchy has another year like he did last year, I think 65 wins is more likely.
Poco Springfield
February 19th, 2009
2:14 pm
DOB,
Do you see anyone platooning or getting spot starts with Kotchman at first base? Could Kala Ka’aihue eventually be the right handed part of a platoon with Kotchman?
Will Prado platoon at second base with KJ?
Coxlover
February 19th, 2009
2:15 pm
Bravesfan, rankings mean nothing.
f.n. hale
February 19th, 2009
2:15 pm
Holy Crap! I thought it was a joke, but people are seriously upset with DOB and the AJC over this thing? I wasn’t all that psyched about Griffey coming anyway, though it would have been cool seeing a future hall of famer, but folks, we’re just talking here and the only thing reported was that a writer who is known to have a relationship said Griffey told a friend he was coming here. What was supposed to be verified? That the guy really told Terrence that or that Griffey really told his friend that? Maybe DOB should have verified it was really Terrence relaying the info or maybe the guy wasn’t really friends with Griffey after all. How about if he had written “unconfirmed sources have indicated that Ken Griffey, Jr. told other unconfirmed sources that he was going to play for a major league baseball team that some believe to be the Atlanta Braves”? On the other hand, it would be kinda cool to have that kind of power. Hey DOB, can you make mention that Jennifer Aniston has told a friend she had decided not to sleep with f.n. hale?
BravesFanInRockies
February 19th, 2009
2:15 pm
John Quest
Fair point, esp. if you’re talking about their radio shows. Those do often function as a headline service for plenty of other media sources.
Thrillhouse44
February 19th, 2009
2:15 pm
Strong DOB, has Kawakami indicated how he’s adjusting to the bigger balls in the American game?
getnathan
February 19th, 2009
2:16 pm
Jim if the Braves are looking at Luis Gonzalez, that, to me, would be a mistake. They might as go with what they have.
dap01
February 19th, 2009
2:17 pm
I don’t understand the FIRE WREN comments. He inherited a mess. He has helped create a turnaround that all of us agree is coming.
We have excellent pitching depth now and in the future (Hanson, Morton, Robough, Locke, Tehran). We have great positional players coming up Schafer, Heyward, Gorkys). Griffey used the Braves as leverage, not fun for us but it is a business. The only thing that Wren could have done differently was over pay. Overpay is not good.
What Braves fan is not excited about our team for years to come?
We are not the destination of choice anymore but we are headed in a great direction.
BravesFanInRockies
February 19th, 2009
2:17 pm
Coxlover
The point is, the Braves staff has been overlooked or underrated by a lot of so-called experts. We shouldn’t be surprised at all if they kick some butt.
Coxlover
February 19th, 2009
2:18 pm
dap, yeah we have a lot of good young players and when they start getting good and the Braves can’t afford them, they’ll go to big market teams like the Yankees or Red Sox.
BigHittas
February 19th, 2009
2:18 pm
I’ve said it before on this blog….I think Glavs will be the opening day pitch. I think there’s a better chance of that than the Braves signing Griffey at this point.
Coxlover
February 19th, 2009
2:19 pm
I just don’t see how Braves fans think we have any shot of making the playoffs as bad as our outfield is. We had the WORST offensive production in the outfield last year.
Danga
February 19th, 2009
2:20 pm
Friday and Coxlover…You expect this team to win fewer games than last year? This team still has weaknesses, but you have to remember that Hudson, Smoltz, and Glavine all went down with injuries last year. That left JJ and Campillo as the aces of our staff. They had fine years last year, but Hudson and Smoltz they are not. The Bravos have pitching depth this year, and that will give them the time they need to determine if the kids can handle the OF jobs.
Thrillhouse44
February 19th, 2009
2:20 pm
If Luis Gonzalez ends up on the Braves roster, I’ll gladly buy his Tic Tacs from Jose Canseco.
moose knuckle
February 19th, 2009
2:20 pm
dob:
how is Kawakame adjusting to the bigger ball?
BamaBrave
February 19th, 2009
2:20 pm
Regarding Edmonds… “Not sure why he hasn’t been mentioned more prominently here or elsewhere”
- Mr. Baseball
Pure speculation on my part…but I was always under the impression that Edmonds used his mouth more than his ears in St. Louis, and was an injury-prone prima donna. As a consequence, I don’t think he was a “Bobby Cox” kind of player. Maybe he’s mellowed, maybe he hasn’t. I just don’t see him being the wise old outfield mentor, holding court in the dugout with Anderson, Schafer, etc.
Redirect
February 19th, 2009
2:20 pm
“…has Kawakami indicated how he’s adjusting to the bigger balls in the American game?” Thrillhouse44
Must…not…make…snide…or crass…comment! Must refrain…bad thoughts…sensory overload!
2Parc
February 19th, 2009
2:21 pm
last year is last year… don’t you people have any optimism?
BravesFanInRockies
February 19th, 2009
2:22 pm
And for another take on Griffey, this, from a CBS reporter who covered him in Cincinnati:
“So all that talk about doing things ‘for my family,’ as he has said over the years, is a bunch of crap. Junior, as I have always suspected, is full of crap. Because if he were all about his family, as he has said time and again, he’d be an Atlanta Brave right now.”
Chris
February 19th, 2009
2:22 pm
Enter your comments here
Coxlover
February 19th, 2009
2:22 pm
Danga, keep in mind that we didn’t have Smoltz and Hudson last year and we don’t have them this year either !!!! Smoltz is gone to Boston and Hudson probably won’t play this year.
Braveheart
February 19th, 2009
2:22 pm
Good line about the tic tacs Thrillhouse
Andy K.
February 19th, 2009
2:22 pm
DOB, in regards to Kawakami, are Bobby and Roger going to be more lenient with his pitch count once the season starts? Because those guys in Japan throw way more than pitchers here do.
Mets Stink!
February 19th, 2009
2:23 pm
I don’t get why people are hating on Frank Wren. It’s been a tough offseason for the braves, but they are going to be better this year with the new additions. We didn’t get Peavey, but the Padres were asking for way too much in return. Burnett chose the Yankees over the Braves, and by doing that he’ll have a much better shot at a World Series ring. Furcal and his agent backed out on a deal at the last minute. Griffey chose the Mariners after they offered more money in incentives and after speaking to Willy Mays. In my opinion, the only bad thing that Wren and the Braves did was letting Smoltz get away. With the way Smoltz has acted the last couple weeks, I’ve been more convinced that losing him wasn’t that bad of a thing.
I think Wren has done everything that he could with the money he has available to build a better team. This isn’t the braves of the mid 90s. There’s not a lot of money to throw around, so players aren’t going to line up to come here like they did.
jared
February 19th, 2009
2:23 pm
Going to give the young guys a chance in the outfield? Sounds a lot like last year if you ask me. So basically Wren is saying that he is content with having the worst offensive outfield in baseball for the second straight year. This guy is a joke.
sinking ship
February 19th, 2009
2:23 pm
the only thing sad about Griffey going back to the Mariners is that he is not taking Bobby Cox and Jeff “Flounder” with him
Man With No Name
February 19th, 2009
2:23 pm
DOB, no word on going after G Anderson, J Edmonds, or Swisher/Nady deal? Can we really go with what we’ve got in the young guys in the OF. We need power in our line up in a bad kind of way. We had Tex in there with Chipper and scored some runs but our pitching was depleted. Now we have some supposed pitching depth but a serious lack of power. However, I guess if L Media won’t give you some funds to spend like Ted used to, you gotta make lemonade out of lemons.
semiballcoach
February 19th, 2009
2:24 pm
rather than sign anyone or make a rash trade, braves might be better off waiting until june to see which teams are impacted by the economy and see who’s available
TrueBlueBrave
February 19th, 2009
2:25 pm
Whatever happened to being a fan win-or-lose, good-or-bad?? I suffered through the awful teams of the 60’s, 70’s, 80’s and some of the 90’s and remained faithful. That’s what a REAL fan does. I truly enjoyed the ride we had for those 15+ years at the top of our division and will continue to support the Braves through thick and thin. It would’ve been nice to have Griffey hit his last few HR’s with us, but it wasn’t meant to be. Who cares why or whose fault it was that he didn’t sign with us….he just didn’t. End of story. Any given team can beat any other on any day of the week. There’s a ton of luck involved in this game and you take what is given and graciously lose when it swings the other way. All the same, at the end of the day, you’re either a Braves fan or your not. I have very little tolerance for those that have to have a scapegoat when things go bad. We’re talking about a game where grown men hit a ball with a stick. Get a grip on reality, pick a team, stick with them win-or-lose and enjoy the ride. GO BRAVES!!!
Coxlover
February 19th, 2009
2:25 pm
It comes down to this folks. Griffey is not a family man. He cares more about his fans in Seattle and his loyalty to the Mariners than he does about his family.
Mets Stink!
February 19th, 2009
2:26 pm
I’m also interested to see how Kawakami will be treated in the early part of the year with his pitch count and his spot in the rotation. I hope the Braves would be a little more conservative with him to start the season.
Danga
February 19th, 2009
2:26 pm
Coxlover…But we do have Derek Lowe, JJ, KK, Vazquez, and {insert Hanson, Glavine, Morton, JoJo here}. That is a solid rotation. If we are snake bit again this year and lose 3/5 of our starting rotation we’ll probably lose 90 again. But right now, this team is deeper and better than the team that limped to 72 wins last year.
Thrillhouse44
February 19th, 2009
2:26 pm
Must…not…make…snide…or crass…comment! Must refrain…bad thoughts…sensory overload! Redirect
I served that one up there just for that purpose. It’s ST – time for gopher balls anyways. Swing away!
John H from NC
February 19th, 2009
2:27 pm
Kevin Kennedy on MLB Home Plate said his source is telling him that “Luis Gonzalez will be a Brave”. Wouldn’t surprise me. Good clubhouse presence, decent bat and glove in LF. Probably about the same as signing KGJ.
Coxlover
February 19th, 2009
2:27 pm
Well, I take that back, Griffey isn’t loyal to the Mariners. He left the Mariners in 2000 to take less money with the Reds. So i’m not sure what to make about Griffey.
MLH
February 19th, 2009
2:27 pm
I find it comical how the AJC put up the poll late last night asking readers who they think is at fault for Griffey not signing. One of their choices was AJC, then when 90% of the public chose that option they quickly took it down.
Bobby's Cox
February 19th, 2009
2:27 pm
DOB,
I really don’t care that Griffey went to Seattle. Personally, I rather see B. Jones out there. And, although i’m not a huge Bowman fan, I’m not mad at him either. There’s a story on Yahoo that says Griffey changed his mind after talking to Willie Mays.
So, so what if a platoon outfielder went somewhere else. We have the pieces to make a trade mid-season. And, GA is still out there. At this point in their careers, Garrett is a better hitter than Griffey anyway, and they’re both left handed hitters. The only thing Griffey would’ve done was put some butts in seats, and maybe that’s what angers Wren if it does at all anyway.
Here’s the link to the Yahoo article.
http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/rumors/post/Willie-Mays-helps-Griffey-decide-on-return-to-Se;_ylt=Ah6OZMxQDKKWXB8mLuqkHiARvLYF?urn=mlb,142554
2Parc
February 19th, 2009
2:28 pm
I feel like I’m in a Depression Anonymous meeting. And a couple of guys from the Idiots Anonymous meeting think they’re in the right room.
BravesFanInRockies
February 19th, 2009
2:28 pm
Coxlover
All I know is that by the end of last year our rotation was Jurrjens, Campillo, JoJo, Elmer Dessens and maybe Len Barker. If you can’t see the improvement, there’s no hope for you.
Coxlover
February 19th, 2009
2:28 pm
Danga, maybe our pitching is deeper but what about our offense ?
Danga
February 19th, 2009
2:28 pm
Jared…Last year we had Kotsay in CF and Francoeur and Diaz both coming off good years. This is not like last year.
Moby Grape
February 19th, 2009
2:28 pm
Wow, What a group of morons the last few days. I think I’ll take a break and come back in a few days after this crap slows down and the newbies go away.
Novice Ned
February 19th, 2009
2:28 pm
DOB, how many bullpen spots do you think are open this Spring? Obviously, the lefty reliever job between those guys acquired in the winter… but aren’t the other slots pretty well claimed by Gonzo, Soriano, Moylan, Boyers and Acosta? I guess either Campillo or Buddy will be the long reliever. Where does that leave Stockman?
Thrillhouse44
February 19th, 2009
2:29 pm
Braveheart, let’s just hope it doesn’t come to that.
Redirect
February 19th, 2009
2:30 pm
Thrillhouse44
And the serve was a good one! An ace!
UNCBrave
February 19th, 2009
2:31 pm
So DOB the Braves and Wren are just banking that the young guys are going to hit for power against ML pitching? That’s stupid considering our OF produced 27 HR’s last year..
SIGN JIM EDMONDS…
BravesFanInRockies
February 19th, 2009
2:31 pm
Coxlover
What about our offense? That is the question, indeed.
mbatl
February 19th, 2009
2:31 pm
“In the Schuerholz era, I don’t believe the world would have known that all those misses had happened. So, Scheurholz was either 1) a better deal-maker or 2)better at keeping news / negotiations under wraps.”
dondi123, I know you asked DOB, but I’m gonna give my thoughts on this.
First, except in 1991, JS never had to fill the number of holes the ‘09 Braves have, via free agency. That year, he signed Pendleton, Belliard, and Bream (none of whom were really a very big deal at the time). He signed Maddux in ‘93 (a big deal, of course) and Galarraga in ‘98, a pretty big deal). But he never had to fill 2-3 rotation spots plus at least one OF spot in one year.
Second, JS was indeed much more tight-lipped about things. We thought Wren had learned this lesson, but then he started talking again about negotiations with Jr. I don’t really understand why he did that. Maybe he’s “learned” the lesson, again.
And third, for most of JS’s tenure, there wasn’t a huge internet reporting/blogging community. Maybe a few rumors would be printed in the fine print of the sports pages, and of course in his last couple of years, blogging was growing, but not to the extent it’s grown to today. Now you’ve got an entire industry built around it. It’s like the paparazzi in Hollywood.
Danga
February 19th, 2009
2:32 pm
Coxlover…Our offense ranked 6th last year in the NL even with all of the woes we had. I really don’t see how we got worst.
Danga
February 19th, 2009
2:32 pm
*worse
bertbennett
February 19th, 2009
2:33 pm
lets see how many folks slamming dob on here are back after all this griffey mess washes over. OK well the young guys are gonna get a shot. The only real plus on that I see is maybe Jorday Schafer or Brandon Jones, Dont forget Heyward will be up in a few years and Jordan will move over to CF. I wish they’d take a look at Garrett Anderson as a stop gap but I just dont see them going after him, too expensive apparently. Well DOB keep up the good work man and try to get the paper to start letting you write those headlines, we know that wasnt in your hands and your reports were accurate, he simply changed his mind.
David O'Brien
February 19th, 2009
2:33 pm
DOB, I think you are missing the point. The source was obviously bad — or inaccurate — yet you went with it anyway. Why not get more than one source? – Bad Sources
One more time: We wrote that Griffey told a close friend he was going to play for the Braves, and that they still had to work out details of the contract. Not that he signed, not that he agreed to terms, only that he told a close friend he’d decided to play for the Braves over Seattle.
What part of that did you want verified by a second source, exactly? Did you want the close friend’s wife to confirm that Griffey said it? Maybe the close friend’s maid to confirm she heard Griffey say it loudly through the close friend’s cell phone?
You want a second source for a story that said Griffey told a close friend he had decided to join the Braves?
Besides, SI.com had him telling “friends” (as in multiple sources) that he was going to the Braves, and the story kind of blew up in their faces, too.
Coxlover
February 19th, 2009
2:33 pm
Danga, 6th in the NL but LAST in outfield production which is a very glaring weakness.
Since Capt.Mathews
February 19th, 2009
2:33 pm
It’s a pleasure to read this blog every day because of the professional (but sometimes smug) beat writer and the exemplary people he attracts.
Rudyard said it best “if you can keep your head when all about you are losing theirs and blaming it on you” and “if you can deal with triumph and disaster and treat those two imposters just the same”.
Hey but ship happens and it just improves conscientious professionals. I’m hoping to be enjoying the blog everyday and reading the words of our hard working if imperfect everyman. I’m emotionally attached to the Braves and we’ve had our ups and downs over the years, the last incident is just a mere interesting blip on the screen.
DOB, keep up the good work.
toga party
February 19th, 2009
2:34 pm
I think it’s funny that Frenchy’s contract is for $3.375M, with incentives up to $3.4M. I hope they gave him a $12,500 incentive for MVP, and a $12,500 incentive for playing 162 games. That will really make the difference in his motivation level.
Better yet, I hope the $25,000 is split into 5 different incentives. Seriously, what’s the point?
“I was going to try to pull every ball over the fence, but with that extra $25,000 out there, maybe I’ll listen to some advice and play the ball where it’s pitched.”
beachcomber
February 19th, 2009
2:35 pm
semi-ball coach, excellent post. No need for knee jerk reactions to the Griffey thing. Like you, I suspect there may be a lot better options waiting for us in June than the current crop. And if Diaz returns to his former form and French’s ‘08 was an aberration (admittedly too big ifs), we may not need anything by June.
Bobbymahlon
February 19th, 2009
2:35 pm
NO LOSS : I think that G Anderson would be of more help to the Braves than KG anyway. Griffey in his prime was great but he now is only a shadow of what he used to be and if you look at Anderson’s recent numbers they are impressive. Lets try and get GA instead of losing good young players trying to get Nady or Swisher.
Coxlover
February 19th, 2009
2:35 pm
Maybe Griffey should’ve just kept his mouth shut and not told his friends anything until he was sure what team he going to.
sinking ship
February 19th, 2009
2:35 pm
THIS JUST IN!!!!!!!! Griffey changes mind again “going to Yankees”–Bobby Cox to stay in Florida at retirement home–Barry Bonds to be named new Braves coach.
Andrew
February 19th, 2009
2:36 pm
DOB- do the enternal choices excite you? they dont do much for me.
Danga
February 19th, 2009
2:36 pm
Here is to hopint that a diaz/jones platoon produces better than .235 with 20 HR and 55 RBI which were Edmonds numbers from last year.
Friday The 13th Remake Was Okay
February 19th, 2009
2:36 pm
Look I am trying to be optimistic, but everything that has happened so far has been horrible this year. Plus I dont know about anyone else, but I use to be able to name at least 10 or 15 braves players at the drop of a hat. Now I can barely name 5, this team is too young and we probably will have to wait till 2012 to at least get back to divisional contention. Plus I dont see how everyone is so gun hoe about 2010 being “our year” We have a few years to go.
Plus Atlanta is just not the same place anymore as in the 90s. We are just a regular old franchise, those flags in left field for titles should just be taken down because that is all done in the past. It was great but sometimes I think the past is hurting us for our future.
Well at least the summer movie season will be kicking off during the season!!! Transformers 2!!!! Whooo Hooo…I think Frank Wren is Megatron trying to destroy our team
More than meets the Wren!!!
Coxlover
February 19th, 2009
2:38 pm
I can’t believe I’m already tired of baseball season and it hasn’t even started yet. I hope this year isn’t as bad as I’m fearful it will be.
BamaBrave
February 19th, 2009
2:39 pm
Totally agree, Mets Stink…
I hope McDowell was taking notes during Dice K’s first year. The dude hit the wall in late August because of the longer US season. Kawakami needs to be handled carefully.
Danga
February 19th, 2009
2:40 pm
Coxlover…There is not doubt that our OF was beyond awful last year. My only point is that this team is not worse than last year as currently constituted. And I believe that we are improved.
ncscoots
February 19th, 2009
2:40 pm
so what? [robdawg is] making a lot of foolish statements today.
What, as opposed to some OTHER day that the sun rises in the east?!?
We had the WORST offensive production in the outfield last year.
And, if they were still playing last year’s games, you might have a point. Luckily, that year is over, and 2009 has yet to be played. Players change, every year, and get better or get worse. Proclamations made in February, before you have even seen the first pitch of ST, tend to be ill-advised.
Fans are always preparing to fight the last war (DBackMac knows what I mean), instead of looking to the future.