Braves face resurgent Reds
Cincinnati — Greetings from the banks of the Ohio River, where the Braves and birthday boy Chipper Jones will go for their first back-to-back wins in 10 games tonight when they open a series against the surging Reds.
That’s right, the surging Reds.
In case you missed it, they just put together a 7-3 road trip that included series wins at Milwaukee, Houston and Chicago, where the Reds outscored the Cubs 10-1 Wednesday and Thursday at Wrigley Field.
They return home with a 9-6 record that’s tied for the third-best in the NL, and tonight on Hoss’s birthday we’ve got the V-quez matchup, Atlanta’s Javier Vazquez vs. Cincy’s Edinson Volquez.
Chipper
Volquez is 2-1 despite a 6.46 ERA, while Vazquez is 1-1 with a 3.00 ERA. Ah, the beauty of run support.
Anyway, the Braves were the only major league team in Cincinnati for most of Thursday, when they spent their off day here and were able to savor the unusual flavor of Wednesday’s 1-0 sweep-averting win at Washington, D.C.
How unusual was it? Consider that Brian McCann and Jeff Francoeur had never been part of a 1-0 Braves road win. The last time the Braves won 1-0 on the road was June 4, 2005, when they won at Pittsburgh and John Foster was the winning pitcher. (Remember that heavily tattooed left-hander? He was a trip.)
Not only that, but the Elias Sports Bureau went into his massive database and found that before Kelly Johnson’s game-winning RBI on a bases-loaded walk in the ninth inning Wednesday against the Nats, the last time – the only other time – that Atlanta won a 1-0 game on a bases-loaded walk was 1966, when Clete Boyer drew a bases-loaded walk off the Reds’ Tony Cloninger in the eighth inning.
Whew. That’s going back a ways.
♦ Speaking of going back a ways, Chipper turns 37 today, and I’m sure he’d like nothing more than to go deep in a win at Cincinnati’s Great American Smallpark, as the corporate-bank bandbox of a ballpark is often called.
Then again, at this point the Braves would take a few doubless, any extra-base hits at all from a few cogs in their lately rather punchless lineup. Other than Casey Kotchman and Jeff Francoeur, they’re not getting much extra-base-hit punch at all lately (if someone had told you a month ago that Francoeur and Kotchman would be the hottest Braves hitters in late April, what would you have said?)
Consider these varying degrees of slumpitude:
• Brian McCann is 2-for-26 (.077) with no extra-base hits and one RBI in his past nine games, for an .077 slugging percentage in that span.
• Kelly Johnson is 2-for-23 (.087) with no extra-base hits and one RBI in his past seven games, for an .087 slugging percentage.
• Yunel Escobar is 3-for-24 (.125) with no extra-base hits and no RBI in his past six games, for a .125 slugging percentage.
• Chipper Jones is 8-for-30 (.267) with one extra-base hits (triple) and three RBI in his past eight games, for a .333 slugging percentage.
On the other hand, Kotchman is warming up at a 7-for-17 clip (.412) with four doubles and a .647 slugging percentage in his past five games.
But it’s Francoeur who has been the Braves’ hottest hitter over a significant stretch, going 15-for-39 (.385) with four extra-base hits and seven RBI in his past 10 games, with a .538 slugging percentage in that span.
It’ll be interesting to see how Francoeur, who ranks 10th in the NL with a .407 average against lefty pitchers, will fare in this series against a trio of Reds right-handed starters. He’s hit .242 (8-for-33) against righties this season.
Diaz (right) has raked at Cincy
♦ Favorable matchups: There would seem no better time than this weekend for McCann, getting used to that new contact lens, to start doing some raking again.
At the cozy Cincy ballpark, McCann has a .385 career average with a whopping seven homers in 52 at-bats. Ten of his 20 hits at the park have gone for extra bases, and McCann has an .846 slugging percentage here to lead current Braves.
Not only that, but he also has hit very well against the first two pitchers, albeit in fairly limited at-bats.
McCann is 3-for-5 with a homer against Volquez. And he’s 4-for-9 with two homers and five RBI against Bronson Arroyo, who’s scheduled to face Derek Lowe in an attractive pitching matchup Saturday afternoon.
Others who’ve done damage against Arroyo: Kotchman, who’s 6-for-12 with a homer, and Chipper, who’s 9-for-20 with two homers.
Eight current Braves have hit .333 or higher at Cincinnati’s park, including Matt Diaz, who’s 8-for-18 with a homer here. If Garret Anderson can play, you’d think he would’ve gotten most of the left-field playing time in this series.
But that’s a big “if.” He hasn’t played since injuring his quadriceps Sunday at Pittsburgh, and if he can’t go today, the Braves might DL Anderson. No word on that decision yet, but I’m guessing we’ll know soon after we get to the ballpark, sometime around 3 p.m.
Kelly Johnson has a .378 average with two homers and nine RBI in 45 at-bats at Cincy, with a 1.091 OPS in 12 games.
Chipper has a .333 average with two homers and nine RBI in 48 at-bats here, for a .959 OPS (which is really only about average for Chipper in recent years).
Francoeur has a .292 career average with six homers and 20 RBI in 26 games against the Reds, including three homers in 61 at-bats (13 games) here in Cincy.
♦ Relief pitching was the most encouraging aspect of the Braves’ mostly dreary three days and (long) nights in D.C. Their bullpen has started to come around, at least the key parts at the back end of it.
The unit’s overall ERA and opp. average are still rancid, and it’ll take a while to whittle those figures down after some early season blowups inflated them to ghastly degrees.
But if you watched the series, you know why the Braves are starting to feel better about their Big Three of Peter Moylan, Rafael Soriano and Mike Gonzalez.
It won’t surprise me if Soriano starts getting at least as many opportunities in the closer role as Gonzo. Soriano’s stuff is nasty again. He’s currently third among NL relievers in opponents’ average at .095 (2-for-22).
And here’s a stat that I bet will surprise all of you. It did me.
Among the NL relief leaders in strikeouts per innings, Braves hold down three of the top nine spots. Granted, it’s very early and the sample size is quite small, but still, Gonzalez leads NL relievers at 15.6 strikeouts per nine innings (11 in 6-1/3 innings), and Moylan is second at 14.4 (eight in five innings). Soriano is ninth at 12.9 (10 strikeouts in seven innings).
Hey, I said it was a small sampling size. Still a lot of strikeouts from the guys they’re depending on, and has to be considered a great sign.
♦ This, on the other hand, is not a great sign: The Braves top pinch-hitter, Greg Norton, is 0-for-11 with four strikeouts and one walk this season.
Remember when Norton was the hottest pinch-hitter in the NL during the second half of last season? He had a particularly torrid stretch from Aug. 16 to Sept. 21, when he was 10-for-27 with four homers, 13 RBI and 11 walks in 30 games.
Since Sept. 22, Norton is 0-for-16.
Etc.
• The Braves, after hitting .300 with 10 homers in six games during their 5-1 start, have hit .229 with four homers during their 2-7 skid since then. They have 65 hits in their past nine games, and 15 of those hits (and two homers) came in one game at Pittsburgh. That’s 50 hits in the other eight games, including just two homers….
• The Braves are 4-9 against the Reds since the beginning of the 2007 season, including 1-6 at Cincinnati, where they’ve lost their past six in a row.
♣ Diversions: Saw a very good movie, State of Play, while I was home in Atlanta this week and Carroll was covering the Nationals series (by the way, Carroll wrote a great story today on Matt Diaz and Jordan Schafer’s friendship; check it out on the website if you haven’t already).
Russell Crowe as an ink-stained wretch of a newspaper man in State of Play. Gotta love it…..
Also went on a CD buying spree, my first in a while. Of the ones I’ve listened to so far, I really like the new CD by Booker T with the Drive-By Truckers and Neil Young as his backing band.
But I love the new ones by Manchester Orchestra and Mastodon, two bands that happen to hail from Atlanta. Surely you know Mastodon, if you’re into a sort of thinking-man’s metal that’ll melt your face if played at the proper volume.
But I urge any of you looking for an up-and-coming, downright stellar rock band with a bit of an alt edge, to try Manchester Orchestra’s new CD, Mean Everything to Nothing. It’s terrific.
By the way, is any other region of the country producing as much vital new rock as the South? From Tennessee’s Kings of Leon and Louisville’s My Morning Jacket to Athens/Muscle Shoals’ Drive-By Truckers and Atlanta’s own bevy of bands including Deerhunter, Black Lips, Mastodon, Manchester Orchestra, the Selmanaires, Anna Kramer, the Whigs … the South rocks.
Always has.
Lynyrd Skynyrd
“YOU GOT THAT RIGHT” by Steve Gaines & Ronnie Van Zant
Well I’ve heard lots of people say
They’re gonna settle down
You don’t see their faces
And they don’t come around
Well I’m not that way
I got to move along
I like to drink and to dance all night
Comes to a fix not afraid to fight
You got that right
Said, you got that right
Sure got that right
Seems so long I been out on my own
Travel light and I’m always alone
Guess I was born with a travellin’ bone
When my times up, I’ll hold my own
You won’t find me in an old folks home
You got that right
Well you got that right
Said, you got that right
Sure got that right
I tried everything in my life
Things I like I try ‘em twice
You got that right
Sure got that right
Travellin’ around the world, just singing my song
I got to go, Lord I can’t stay long
Here comes that ol’ travellin’ jones once again
I like to drink and to dance all night
Comes to a fix not afraid to fight
You got that right
Said, you got that right
Well you got that right
Sure got that right
2,402 comments Add your comment
Taylor S
April 24th, 2009
2:33 pm
As bad as we are playing the Mets and Phllies are playing worse. We just need to turn it around before they do.
Dr Hoo
April 24th, 2009
2:35 pm
Got Mastodon’s latest, Crack the Skye, yesterday after reading a review on Deadspin and have been enjoying it. Refreshingly throw-back (think early 70s metal). Sounds like what you might get if Black Sabbath tried to compose a high-concept album like Rush’s 2112.
BravesFAN885
April 24th, 2009
2:36 pm
DOB, is Heap playing tonight?
Tomahawkin
April 24th, 2009
2:37 pm
Thanks for all the 411 D.O.B.. Agreed if we are gonna get the bats going, this is the best place to do it. With that in mind the braves hitter can’t come out swing at the first pitchevery at bat…
We seriously need to take 2 of 3 before the schedul starts getting more difficult, which makes the losses at Pittsburgh and Washington more painful to digest….
Feast or Famine for the offense so far, Let’s see which side we get tonight…
James is Red
April 24th, 2009
2:37 pm
DOB: Play GM. What do you do with the middle relief on this team? Do you dump Bennett or Carlyle? Bring up Charlie Morton and take him out of the starter role he’s currently in? And what about the position players and the horrid offense? Do you think it’s time for Brandon Jones? Or some Prado at 2nd? I’d appreciate hearing your take.
brAves Sucios
April 24th, 2009
2:38 pm
Go Braves!
Dwight Schrute
April 24th, 2009
2:38 pm
My new years resolution was to write and record my songs and music.
Outcome? Not necessary. Decided against it. Waste of time. Songs are for children and inmates. Switched resolution to increase beet farm productivity by additional 3%. Achieved new resolution.
Tomahawkin
April 24th, 2009
2:41 pm
Taylor S….Your Qoute…
“As bad as we are playing the Mets and Phllies are playing worse. We just need to turn it around before they do.”
Co-sign, The phillies are down in Ft. Liquordale this weekend and I hope the Marlins hand their as.s to them like they did us…
Also We gotta get on a roll before we face the Cardinals and Mets. If we go against those 2 teams playing like the AAA braves of Last year we are gonna get Clowned…We gotta end this Inept/Ho-Hum Style of play on the field, NOW!
18 Wheels of Love
April 24th, 2009
2:43 pm
DOB, you left off Darius Rucker from your list.
Hehe.
Supes
April 24th, 2009
2:44 pm
Mets are just playing crappy baseball, I’d like to read Ander’s take on that:)
Phillies should be worried. Cole Hamels hasn’t looked ANYTHING like a dominanting lefty ace, and he got banged around in his last start. Sure the Phillies will score runs…but can you outslug teams every night? Not sure about that over the course of the season.
Marlins look like the most balanced team right now. Althought they got beat by the Pirates…who continue to lead the league in ERA.
Fantasy update…Maholm(sp) still available in most leagues…what are you waiting for? Get it while it’s hot:)
18 Wheels of Love
April 24th, 2009
2:44 pm
Oh, how about Glavine? Hasn’t it been 2 weeks since he shut it down?
Dwight Schrute
April 24th, 2009
2:48 pm
I hate Salmon. It’s so pink. And it smells like fish. Salmon sucks!
I hate Salmon. I hope they all die in those rivers.
Macon Braves (RIP)
April 24th, 2009
2:50 pm
Mentioned at the end of the last blog, but guess I’ll repeat here since everyone probably moved over before I posted.
The soft sided coolers are ok, but you have to remove the plastic liner?? What the heck??? Food/drinks aren’t going to stay cool very long in just the cloth cooler. And those freezer “cubes” don’t cool nearly as well as actual ice does.
Sandlot
April 24th, 2009
2:50 pm
Slumpitude? I’m going to have to add that one to my vocabulary, DOB. It rolls off the tongue rather nicely.
fat people sink faster
April 24th, 2009
2:51 pm
we’ve been pretty damn terrible at th dish the last bit of games…if we can just get upto 4 or so runs a game, this team has the pitching to make it holdup on most evenings
ellaguru
April 24th, 2009
2:52 pm
Dave, I should’ve taken you with me to see Acid Mothers Temple at the Earl.
They’re from South Japan, maybe. Mastodon probably wouldn’t trade either of their guitar players for Kawabata; they’re a little more, um, technical; they hit all the notes they’re trying to play, probably. Kawabata was a little more impressionistic. Like an F-22 spooling up in the room, pretty much.
northbeach Scott
April 24th, 2009
2:52 pm
DOB Elias is wrong, should be 1969 (April 13), rather than 1966. Cloninger pitched for the Braves in 1966 (two grand slam game vs SF) joining the Reds in 1968 and Clete Boyer joined the Braves in 1967. You may want to correct the blog article.
ncscoots
April 24th, 2009
2:55 pm
Like an F-22 spooling up in the room, pretty much.
Wordsmithing at its best, my friend. Perfect imagery.
northbeach Scott
April 24th, 2009
2:59 pm
Listened to the entire Clash album, London Calling for the first time in years, last night. What a remarkable disc. Been listening to Pylon’s Gyrate the last week, as well. Some fond memories of undergrad when I originally enjoyed them.
Random
April 24th, 2009
2:59 pm
ease19 (2:08 pm): “Me – Sagittarius. Wife – Sagittarius.
” . . . was that the luck you were referring to?”
Ehhh, well . . .
Just great good luck to you and yours in all your endeavors, eh!!!
(My ex is also Sag.)
I just registered for my free game — had to jump on the day game, myself. Weekday, that is.
Any excuse not to work.
dogsbrekky
April 24th, 2009
3:00 pm
London Calling was such a great piece of vinyl, makes me want to go searching through the missus’ old collections to see if I can find it…
Salt
April 24th, 2009
3:01 pm
You forgot that great Macon band, Barry Darnell & The Mobile Slim band. They are the buzz all over town.
Your friend,
Barry
northbeach Scott
April 24th, 2009
3:05 pm
Also, strangely enough, Phil Niekro scored the winning run on the bases loaded walk to Boyer in the bottom of the eighth. He pitched a complete game 2 hit shut out and struck out 9. Not sure he was worried about pitch counts and running the bases in the eighth. Can you imagine by today’s standards a pitcher batting for himself in the 8th, much less running the bases in a tie game, that late.
ncscoots
April 24th, 2009
3:06 pm
Slumpitude, pah, LOL. The good thing is that you regress to the mean from both directions; the four guys mentioned by DOB are unlikely to be mired in that kind of deep mud for long, and that means they should streak somewhere along the line, evening things out. En fuego, etc.
Add Diaz to that bunch, and Schafer’s mini-affair with Ks, and a .500 record doesn’t look so bad. Not if you can see further beyond than the last AB in the last game. ‘Course, half the people here are ready to waive half the team during a single bad series, so that might be asking a little much.
ease19
April 24th, 2009
3:07 pm
(My ex is also Sag.)
Ex? Oh dear, so the future not so bright?
TnBrian
April 24th, 2009
3:07 pm
What can I or anybody else really say about the Braves right now that already hasn’t been said at least a few dozen times? Maybe take two from three from Cincy? Someone probably beat me to it already…
David
April 24th, 2009
3:12 pm
DOB, can you PLEASE tell me where a good site is for cumulative baseball statistics.
I have three things to look up for teh last 3 years:
1-What % of the Braves runs are due to HRs vs the rest of the league (we rarely steal or move runners in my estimation)
2-Batting avg with RISP
3-Stolen bases
Thanks!
lagnamor
April 24th, 2009
3:15 pm
reds take 2 out of three. Tn Brian, everythings been said but get ready to hear it again.
David
April 24th, 2009
3:18 pm
DOB, a VERY good song for the day. Skynyrd gets better every time I listen to them….ROCK
braves4ever
April 24th, 2009
3:19 pm
DOB, Whats the news on Glavine? wasn’t he supposed to start throwing about now? Hope you enjoy the game there ,thats a nice park on the river. Hate to leave for the evening but my 12y old has a tourney starting tonight so I will be checking back later to see how things went on here.Go Braves
Greg in TN
April 24th, 2009
3:19 pm
I agree w/ most of what you said, however, how could most of us not fully believe that someone else is capable of at least 272-292 since August 1 of 2005 IF not better than that. C’mon Greg, Bobby may be great and all, but I’m fairly certain we could have a manager and coaching staff that would’ve been able to figure out how to play AT THE VERY LEAST .500 ball and maybe just MAYBE be able to beat the lowly Nationals!P-Town Brave
Hey, to each their own P-Town. You and many others may certainly believe that, and have every right to do so. But that doesn’t make it a foregone conclusion that it would happen. My point is it’s just as likely that the record would be close to the same, or could have even been worse. I don’t think any manager or coaching staff would have foreseen the epic slide that Andruw Jones had starting after 2006 or how deeply Francoeur would slump last year.
Could changes have been made sooner? Certainly. Would they have resulted in a dramatic change that would have changed how the season would have played out? Doubtful.
C’mon P-Town, there are no guarantees of anything in the sport of baseball other than starting the season with 162 scheduled games. You’d love to think that bringing in another staff would magically transform that had real problems with injuries and ineffectiveness of some key starters and make a meaningful difference. I just don’t see that happening.
I did mention the other night that the Braves need to play better against the Nats if they want to make noise in this division, but I also mentioned that even back when the Nats were in Montreal, that team always seemed to get up for a game with the Braves better than most team, even during the 90s.
rob from sc
April 24th, 2009
3:20 pm
Orderly from Bellview Retard Ward (some people placed
The reason I asked a couple of times was because people either misunderstood the question (links to his player page) or said the Myrtle Beach was off last night. Sorry it did not meet you approval.
richbrave
April 24th, 2009
3:21 pm
DAVE:
Any word on GARRETT ANDERSON?
David O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
3:21 pm
Big shocker (or not): Diaz is in LF.
Rest of lineup is usual, with Mac catching, KJ and Escobar at the top, etc
No announcement yet on Garret. Headed downstairs.
Random
April 24th, 2009
3:22 pm
ease19 (2:30 pm): “Besides where else does a hot dog taste better?”
Last season when I had access to season tix and my brother worked as one of the über ushers, the vendors would occasionally bring by their “overstock” in the late innings — imagine half a dozen hotdogs at a buck apiece.
Run Heap Run (2:24 pm): “(PS I have no idea who or what Nice N’ Smooth is either…sounds like a hair product.)”
Or a stool softener.
Chop Chop (2:12 pm) — I sublimate my gambling instinct thru serial marriage.
(Or would that be capitulating rather than sublimating?)
Frank from KS
April 24th, 2009
3:22 pm
DOB
Yeah, anymore info on Mr. Glavine? This coming week should be the second of the two week shut-down to decide if he was going to try and play this season or hang’em up.
Me…I’m hoping like hell he’s able to play….if not, he’s a sure-fire, first ballot HOF.
richbrave
April 24th, 2009
3:22 pm
TnBRIAN:
Try MILB.com for minor league stuff. Haven’t got a majors site myself.
Greg in TN
April 24th, 2009
3:23 pm
Oops, that one sentence should have read ‘You’d love to think that bringing in another staff would magically transform a team that had real problems with injuries and ineffectiveness of some key starters and make a meaningful difference.’
ZC Rider
April 24th, 2009
3:24 pm
I would love to hear any answers on the topics of Tom Glavine or Lance Niekro. I have heard about Lance for three months and he isn’t on their minor league rosters.
Renegator
April 24th, 2009
3:26 pm
Based on the Braves recent (lack of) success against the Reds, especially in their ballpark – I’d say we are staring down the barrel of another sweep.
Hopefully the Braves can find a way to take at least one game.
BravoMan
April 24th, 2009
3:26 pm
WOW, after losing 7 of the last 9 games we’re in 2nd place? Neither the Mets or the Phillies are impressing either.
fat people sink faster
April 24th, 2009
3:27 pm
i guess g.anderson will play after the all star break??
come’on
Chop Chop
April 24th, 2009
3:29 pm
Two things are due to happen to the Braves:
1) The hitting will get better.
2) The starting pitching will get worse.
How much better the first thing is will determine how much the second thing affects the club.
monty
April 24th, 2009
3:29 pm
Sorry, there’s really no excuse for hitting this poorly,whatever it is it seems to be catching. One thing is for sure, the Braves as a group see less pitches per AB than any other team in baseball(I think I read). If that’s true then maybe they need to take another approach because the “see ball, hit ball approach isn’t working. I believe Escobar could be a .300 hitter if he had Chipper’s ability to work a count in his favor, but dude has yet to see a pitch he doesn’t like.
BravoMan
April 24th, 2009
3:30 pm
I bet Anderson goes on the DL and Brandon Jones is brought up. He had a good spring. Let Garret’s quad heal and he’ll be back ready to roll. I also expect that come Jo Jo’s next start we won’t see JoJo and it’s not gonna be Glavine, he’ll retire…
northbeach Scott
April 24th, 2009
3:31 pm
I wonder if Bobby will give Greg Norton a start in LF for one of these games against the right handed Cincy starters. A few ABs might help to snap him out of his slump, especially since Garret-I only have one t in my name-Anderson is not DL’d. The ballpark is so small that Norton could manage LF.
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
3:31 pm
Anderson haters, I’m not thrilled with him either. Doesn’t seem too interested or fit. But I thought the same thing for quite a while about our current 0.00 ERA, fairly fiery closer, so I’m trying to be patient. Delay gratification, ya know…. *lights incense*
Thrillhouse44
April 24th, 2009
3:32 pm
Random, RHR: You haven’t heard of Nice N Smooth? Check out Sometimes I Rhyme Slow http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MNOAM22yPAo – great song.
northbeach Scott
April 24th, 2009
3:35 pm
Oops, my error. Niekro threw a 4 hit shutout complete game. Cloninger only gave up 2 hits (Niekro and Sonny Jackson) over 7 2/3.
Ken Overstreet
April 24th, 2009
3:35 pm
DOB-Thanks for the Skynyrd. I am an old coot and I actually had tickets to see them in concert in Dec. 1977, which of course was after the crash. I still have one of the original “Street Survivors” album jackets where they were walking through the flames.
chc4
April 24th, 2009
3:36 pm
Diaz is pretty bad but the thought of Norton getting 4 ABs in one game is utterly horrifying.
beekay
April 24th, 2009
3:38 pm
Good thing we didn’t blow 30 mill on Bradley…he only has one hit this season and has already been tossed and suspended from a game. He is nursing a nagging groin industry and the boo birds are already out in Cubbieville….maybe wasting 2 mill on Garrett Mondesi isn’t so bad after all
David O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
3:39 pm
Anyone check out the Mets’ starting pitching numbers for guys other than Santana? Take a look at those figures.
Starters Pitching
Statistics through APR-23-2009
ERA W L Sv SvOp G GS CG IP H R ER HR TBB IBB SO
Santana,J. 0.46 2 1 0 0 3 3 0 19.2 11 3 1 0 5 0 27
Figueroa,N. 4.50 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 6.0 5 3 3 1 2 0 3
Hernandez,L. 7.31 1 1 0 0 3 3 0 16.0 22 13 13 4 4 0 7
Maine,J. 7.47 0 2 0 0 3 3 0 15.2 16 13 13 2 9 1 11
Perez,O. 7.80 1 1 0 0 3 3 0 15.0 14 13 13 1 12 0 15
Pelfrey,M. 8.10 1 0 0 0 2 2 0 10.0 13 9 9 3 6 1 5
Champ
April 24th, 2009
3:40 pm
Looks good to me
McFann :Ô:
April 24th, 2009
3:41 pm
Thanks for the new Blog, Chief!
Great numbers on BMac. [sigh]…Hope he adds to them this weekend. This could be just what he needs…just what the doctor ordered?
Dwight Schrute
April 24th, 2009
3:42 pm
Note to all those reading this blog. Be on time.
Only miss a day of work if your life depends on it.
Think about the billions you are costing the American
economy with your selfishness by being tardy or absent
without leave. Think about me busting your A$$ and
think twice. Oh one more thing, in Canada it is always winter. Sometimes the sun never rises in Canada. Harp seals abound until they
are brutally slaughtered by Canadians. They worship maple syrup, hockey and Alanis Morisette. I hate Canadians. That is all.
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
3:42 pm
“I still have one of the original “Street Survivors” album jackets where they were walking through the flames.” -Ken Overstreet
Ken, I lived with a songwriter the first time I failed college, and I stole his flaming Street Survivor vinyl and pawned it. (I was both an idiot and a punk). Years later I heard a homemade cd of his tunes. The chorus to a song called “Education Free” went:
“One for my family and
one for the road.
One just for continuity.
And one for the guy listenin’ to my
record that he stoled.
He gets his education free.”
Haven’t gotten up the nerve to tell him yet. He probably knows.
David O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
3:43 pm
Braves lineup
1. KJ, 2B
2. Yunel, SS
3. Chipper, 3B
4. McCann, C
5. Kotchman, 1B
6. Francoeur, RF
7. Diaz, LF
8. Schafer, CF
9. Vazquez, RH
Tomahawkin
April 24th, 2009
3:44 pm
Has anyone other than me noticed that Chipper comes out Clownin on his B-Day…I’m not sure what his average is onhis B-Day but he usually hits well…
Hopefully he will start something that the rest of the offense can pick up on…
chc4
April 24th, 2009
3:44 pm
The difference b/ NY’s pitching and our hitting is that the Mets will aggressively seek a trade and aren’t afraid to add salry in order to win. Whereas the Braves are pretty much stuck w/ this lineup.
BA
April 24th, 2009
3:44 pm
Got nothing but love for you, DOB- but your pitching chart is harder to read than the tax code!
I’m pretty sure it says that the Mutts have questionable (at best) pitching beyond Santana. They might not make it to the end of the year to wet the bed.
Chop Chop
April 24th, 2009
3:47 pm
I spent a good portion of last season posting the same type of comment about Milton Bradley. Some people here wanted him to play left or right field (depending on what they thought of Francoeur, I guess). I kept posting that the guy was DH’ing most of the season (he DH’d 97 games for Texas in ‘08) and that he was still missing a lot of time (36 games). In fact, he only made 20 starts in the OF for the Rangers.
To further the point, Milton Bradley has made more than 100 starts in the outfield only once in his entire career (137 GS in 2004). The most he’s made since then were the 94 starts he had for Oakland back in 2006.
Nevertheless, the Cubs gave this guy a three-year deal worth $30 million.
There were some dumb contracts handed out over the past few seasons, but to me, that one is the dumbest. Whatever Bradley’s attitude may or may not be, he can’t stay healthy long enough to be counted on as an everyday player.
jonatuga
April 24th, 2009
3:47 pm
Where’s Anders when you need him?
Thrillhouse44
April 24th, 2009
3:49 pm
Think the increase in Mets’ ERA’s has anything to do with the decrease in Anders’ posts?
Thrillhouse44
April 24th, 2009
3:50 pm
jonatuga – he’s watching playoff hockey 24/7 – at least that’s what he wants you to believe.
SoWeGa Fanatic
April 24th, 2009
3:51 pm
chc4, Mets are cash strapped.
David O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
3:51 pm
G. Anderson DL’d retroactive to March 20, Brandon Jones recalled from Triple-A, on his way now. Don’t know if he’ll be here for game, though.
Serge
April 24th, 2009
3:52 pm
No update on G-Derson?
mbatl
April 24th, 2009
3:53 pm
April 20?
Tony Almeida
April 24th, 2009
3:53 pm
March 20th? Wow.
Hillbilly
April 24th, 2009
3:54 pm
20 or more DL retroactive date correction posts coming in 5…..4…..3….
Anders
April 24th, 2009
3:55 pm
I just posted a response to Supes asking for my take about 10 minutes ago. If this post appears I will re-answer. Glad you guys miss me!!!
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
3:55 pm
Golly Gee Wizz, March 20th, surely you must mean…
Bobby's Cox
April 24th, 2009
3:55 pm
Anyone else think it’s ironic that the last time the Braves won 1-0 on a Bases Loaded walk was 30 years ago in 1969 when a kid named Boyer drew the walk, yet this year the Braves released a Boyer who had struggled by, no other than walking in a few runs?
chc4
April 24th, 2009
3:56 pm
The Mets are more cash-strapped than usual thanks to Bernie Madoff squandering all of Wilpon’s money (how funny is that?). But compared to the Braves, they are flush w/ cash.
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
3:57 pm
Uh oh… tell the piano player to switch to a minor key…
TnBrian
April 24th, 2009
4:00 pm
Someone yesterday mentioned the movie Fargo and said that it was a masterpiece. I’m sorry, but I’ve watched the movie from beginning to end and it didn’t blow me away. That North Dakotaian or Minnesotian accent or whatever it was annoyed the crap out of me. It was all right, but not a masterpiece.
I think Bobby throws that lineup out there night in and night out to frustrate us bloggers…
Random
April 24th, 2009
4:00 pm
Kim –
The Most Interesting Man in the World never sits facing west. Riding backwards makes him throw up.
Ken Overstreet
April 24th, 2009
4:01 pm
Bubdylan-We all live and learn.
David O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
4:01 pm
Brandon Jones will be here for the game. They had already sent him, just in case (writing was on the wall, after all)
eltrompoBRAVESfan
April 24th, 2009
4:03 pm
You know, I added GA to my fantasy team after hearing we had acquired him…..he’s done great sitting on my bench…..that’s about it.
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
4:04 pm
TnBrian, there are things Fargo gets exactly right that I’m not eloquent enough to explain. To each his own. ‘Specially vis-a-vis cinema.
David O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
4:04 pm
TnBrian: I’d have to say Fargo was, indeed, a masterpiece. Or pretty damn — oops, make that darn — close.
Jersey Gil
April 24th, 2009
4:04 pm
The two top team in NL East to be in the top(Mets/Phillis) accordly with the expert has there Pithing rotation disater mode in April, additional to those number that DOB show for the Mets the Phillis look worse than the Mets:
Hamel 0-2 Era 9.69
Myers 1-1 Era 5.03
Moyer 2-1 Era 6.35
Blanton 0-2 Era 7.31
Ho park 0-2 Era 8.68
With a little big of more offense the Braves will be in First Place in
May.
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
4:05 pm
Did I use it right? Little help? Doesn’t seem fancy when I say it…
obamallama
April 24th, 2009
4:05 pm
Anyone see this?
Jones plays first
Andruw Jones said his right knee was swollen a day after injuring it while legging out an infield single, but he pinch-hit for Chris Davis on Thursday and made his first career appearance at first base.
PMC
April 24th, 2009
4:05 pm
Thier ERA improved a ton the second they traded Blaine Boyer.
Anders
April 24th, 2009
4:06 pm
OK, guess my original post got swallowed by the AJC server. As I posted the other day, I think we need to wait 35 – 40 games to see where each team is. I do think the Mets need to start hitting with RISP and getting starters through the 6th. If that doesn’t happen in the next 6 weeks then there will be changes.This whole Daniel Murphy thing in left is being ridiculously blown out of proportion. He’s not the problem. My only real concern up until last weekend was that the Marlins would stay incredibly hot and get way to far out in front. Fortunately they couldn’t play 3/4’s of their games against the Nats and Braves forever! That was for DOB’s 3:39 post.
The good news is if the starters remain a problem the Mets aren’t locked into long deals with Maine, Pelfrey or hernandez and they can go out and commit to others if they’re available. And in this market some will be available imo.
As for those wondering where I’ve been I actually avoided the blog last weekend because I wasn’t here the few days before and I didn’t want to look like I was jumping in during that Braves losing streak. I’ve also been spending more time on the hockey side of things with The Rangers. Big game for the blueshirts tonight.
Remember just before the season when I posted Garret Anderson = Moises Alou and took a lot of crap for it? What do you think now?
Greg in TN
April 24th, 2009
4:07 pm
Brandon’s been swinging a hot stick in Gwinnett and can’t ask for a better ballpark to come in off the farm to hit in than GABP.
mbatl
April 24th, 2009
4:07 pm
Aside from their aces, I really don’t think there’s a starter on the Mets or Phillies that would make the Braves’ rotation. And I (and a lot of people) thought so before the season started.
Andy K.
April 24th, 2009
4:07 pm
DOB So whats the deal with Borchard? Released or Reserve List? If he was reserve I’d imagine they’d call him back for AAA since Brandon just got the call.
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
4:07 pm
Oh, DOB… you just… ain’t right.
eltrompoBRAVESfan
April 24th, 2009
4:08 pm
I am excited to see Brandon Jones up!
Although I am worried about all these youngsters getting down on themselves if they go through slumps…Hopefully they’ll play through it well!
PACDOB - People Against the Censoring of Dave O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
4:08 pm
We demand the ability to hear (or read) our Chief and Leader the way he was intended to be read (or heard)!
Salamander
April 24th, 2009
4:08 pm
The difference b/ NY’s pitching and our hitting is that the Mets will aggressively seek a trade and aren’t afraid to add salry in order to win. Whereas the Braves are pretty much stuck w/ this lineup.
If the Mets starting pitchers continue to put up similar numbers for the entire first half, the Mets may not be buyers.
Anyway, the problem with your statement is that it avoids the reality of the trade-deadline market, which is usually dominated by prospects NOT cash. Sure, the Mets could add a high profile starter (say Peavy just as an example), but do they have the pieces to pry him away from San Diego?
Furthermore, I think the Mets might need 2 good starters to salvage their rotation. I don’t know if they are going to find (and afford) both of those pieces. Of course, by the time the trade deadline rolls around, the market will have expanded and more players will be available, so the Mets might be able to pull it off… but I doubt it.
AZBravoFan
April 24th, 2009
4:09 pm
DOB,
Someone just mentioned Phil Niekro above. Any word on how his nephew Lance is doing with his attempted knuckle ball career resurrection?
David O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
4:09 pm
Jones hit .308 (16-for-52) with four doubles, eight RBIs and a .393 on-base percentage in 14 games for Gwinnett, with eight walks and 10 strikeouts.
eltrompoBRAVESfan
April 24th, 2009
4:10 pm
nice
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
4:10 pm
Tomahawkin – I’ve noticed…I like our chances tonight. Hoss’s birthday plus temps in the 80’s in Cincy today = Braves win!
For his career on April 24, he’s hitting .500 (18-of-36) with four homers, eight RBI and 10 runs.
“I always feel like I need to do something cool on my birthday,” the third baseman said. “Hit a homer or have three hits. I would have taken either one, to be honest. Today, I got ‘em both. It was awesome.”
However on this date last year he was hitting a .442 and already had 7 HRs and 20 RBI compared to .316, 1, and 4 as of today.
David O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
4:11 pm
Andy K, Borchard got released.
mbatl
April 24th, 2009
4:11 pm
Mets will probably sign Ben Sheets soon as he’s got an ETA, and maybe even Pedro (though there’s no rumors to that effect).
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
4:11 pm
eh left out a word .. meant to say a “modest” .442
Anders
April 24th, 2009
4:11 pm
Anybody else losing posts? I lost 2 of 3 in the last 15 minutes.
SoWeGa Fanatic
April 24th, 2009
4:12 pm
“But compared to the Braves, they are flush w/ cash.”
Fortunatly, the Braves don’t need money nearly as badly as the Mets.
Metropolitan Man1
April 24th, 2009
4:13 pm
For the fans thinking the Mets won’t fire, sign, or trade for help is crazy. Money is availblae here which was posted over a week ago. The braves started hot and look where it has them. Mets and philthies have yet to start winning consistently and when they do you will see the difference. The Marlins and braves may hang around, but when the juggernauts start winning, braves hopes will be like it is on this blog 3-4 times a week, panic. Blow up the team and bring up Gwinnett.
http://www.topix.com/mlb/new-york-mets/2009/04/omar-we-could-add-to-payroll-if-new-york-post
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
4:13 pm
Good to see Bobby switching up the lineup after horrible offense lately…lol.
chc4
April 24th, 2009
4:14 pm
Salamander — to get a valuable player a team needs to have payroll flexibility. We do not while the Mets do. Sure we have the prospects to get a deal done, but we won’t open up the wallet so it’s a moot point.
And I agree that the Mets may be two starters away. But the Braves are at least 2 hitter away IMO so it’s really no different. To me, the Mets rotation holds more promise in ‘09 than the Braves lineup.
TnBrian
April 24th, 2009
4:15 pm
DOB/Bubdylan, Jaws is a masterpiece. If someone can make a movie about a shark terrorizing people that becomes one of the highest grossing films of all time… that is a movie that deserves to be called a masterpiece.
StingerSplash
April 24th, 2009
4:15 pm
DOB,
Hope you get a good three-way this weekend … if you go to Skyline. Enjoy a good Aglemisas while you’re at it, too.
eltrompoBRAVESfan
April 24th, 2009
4:15 pm
DOB,
Is there any worry about some of these younger players getting exposed to the big leagues to early? Don’t know if you can really answer that, but has been on my mind.
Thrillhouse44
April 24th, 2009
4:15 pm
Anybody else losing posts? I lost 2 of 3 in the last 15 minutes. Anders
And the filter works! Thanks, DOB!
Anders
April 24th, 2009
4:16 pm
I’ll try again. We need to wait 35-40 games to see what each team looks like. The Mets need to start hitting with RISP and getting starters through the 6th. If that doesn’t happen over the next 6 weeks there will be changes. The good news is the Mets have only 1 year deals with Maine Pelfrey and hernandez so they can commit to more pitching if they have to.
Hope you guys don’t mind me posting other Mets stats on here from time to time as there seems to be a genuine interest in them. Who knew?
Patron Saint of the Lost Art
April 24th, 2009
4:16 pm
MetMan…you might be the smartest person on the planet.
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
4:16 pm
“Mets will probably sign Ben Sheets soon as he’s got an ETA,” -mbatl
Does ETA mean Easily Torn Arm?
Serge
April 24th, 2009
4:17 pm
DOB, was Barton added to the 40 man roster?
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
4:17 pm
TnBrian, sorry I don’t associate masterpiece with box office success. Don’t know many who would…
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
4:18 pm
Filter? Did we get a DP2C filter?!
AndyC
April 24th, 2009
4:18 pm
DOB, what’s the record for number of comments on one of your blogs? It was 2,225 on the last one. Just curious.
Doc Holiday
April 24th, 2009
4:18 pm
I still dont understand why is KJ in the lineup………He needs to get out of his funk, benching him today might help. We have the guys to play for him, why not give him time to regroup? Wheres the sin about that?
monty
April 24th, 2009
4:18 pm
Tried to watch Fargo after all the build-up years ago. Hated it! AY
TnBrian
April 24th, 2009
4:20 pm
Forgive me for being weird enough to remember this, but I first watched Fargo after hearing Skip Carey say that it was his favorite movie. That was like 5 or 6 years ago. I know, it just happend to revolve around the Braves, but that’s the truth.
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
4:20 pm
Monty, … AY? I think you’re thinking of Canadian Bacon.
Yikes, I’m talking too much…
chc4
April 24th, 2009
4:21 pm
Gotta play KJ against RHPers. He’s streaky and will break out soon. With his power, Cincy’s ballpark may be the medicine he needs.
winterville
April 24th, 2009
4:21 pm
Anders
I lost a few posts the other day. I copied and pasted it and tried it like 4-5 more times and still never showed up. Never figured out what the deal was. But when I wanted to complain about my post not showing up, that one always came through. Go figure.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
4:23 pm
Would you rather have offense troubles early on or starting pitching problems? I’d go with offense. The Braves hitters have yet to start clicking…and our best player and 3-time All-Star…has yet to come around due to vision issues. At the beginning of the year I predicted McCann to be top 5 in MVP voting…once McCann comes around…and Chipper gets relatively healthy the middle of the order is going to look great. Also…KJ, Esco, Kotchman, LF, and the rest of the gang are going to start hitting…they are too good not to.
SoWeGa Fanatic
April 24th, 2009
4:23 pm
“To me, the Mets rotation holds more promise in ‘09 than the Braves lineup.”
Hardly.
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
4:24 pm
I loved Fargo, but I usually like movies like that. Frances McDermont and that Steve guy? Brilliant actors and perfectly cast in that one.
TnBrian
April 24th, 2009
4:24 pm
Bubdylan, I know, but it’s just the fact that such a silly story line can turn out to be a big hit. Even Jaws 2 wasn’t all that bad, for a sequel anyways.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
4:26 pm
Mets starting pitching over the Braves lineup? Lol…I like when people crack jokes on this blog, it helps lighten things up a little.
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
4:27 pm
Wow 198 people so far would want never pitched in the majors Tommy Hanson to be their hypothetical game 7 starter?
Metropolitan Man1
April 24th, 2009
4:27 pm
Patron Saint of the Lost Art:
MetMan…you might be the smartest person on the planet.
I don’t like to brag but I am a Mets fan. That might have a little something to do with it.
But seriously the braves will not make any managment moves to improve. Think like braves managemmets and look and see who is the culprit the braves need to look to for the losses. What personel changes will the braves make to keep up with the Marlins let alone anyone else? There is no money to be had, no Glavine on the horizon (wasted money), only a guy name Hanson who is taking his lumps in AAA after all the hype. The pen looked better in the Nats series but won 1 game by the skin of their teeth. Not impressive at all.
McFann :Ô:
April 24th, 2009
4:30 pm
Yeah! Brandon Jones!
Il Cattivo
April 24th, 2009
4:30 pm
Masterpiece, great movie etc has a reasonable dependence on individual taste. Sure loads of critics liked the movie (I loved it) and its rated as one of the top movies of the 90s. But that doesnt always translate to everyone liking it. Also – I agree with bubdylan – great movies dont always cash-in. Anyway this discussion is going to go the way of Caddyshack, Animal house pretty soon.
Josh B
April 24th, 2009
4:31 pm
DOB, are you and Mark Bowman the same person? Because both of you guys were off on the same series. OR maybe you too are just best friends and you made a road trip together.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
4:32 pm
Left-handed bat…Brandon Jones! Do we have anyone else that hits left handed in our lineup? Lol. At least BJ is fast…he can cover more ground in left. That should help. If he does play though…is Schafer going to finally move out of the 8 spot? Maybe even higher than 7?
Salamander
April 24th, 2009
4:33 pm
And I agree that the Mets may be two starters away. But the Braves are at least 2 hitter away IMO so it’s really no different. To me, the Mets rotation holds more promise in ‘09 than the Braves lineup. chc4
Note in my post that I didn’t mention the Braves chances of pulling off a deal – just the Mets ability to add quality starters (and I forgot about Sheets being out there).
I doubt that the Braves will be able to find the hitters they need at the trading deadline – let alone have the ability to pay for them. They might be able to find a hitter with pop on the wrong side of 30, but not a true impact bat.
a643dp
April 24th, 2009
4:34 pm
OH look once again its the money we could be saving without Garret Anderson.
____________@_______@________________
=============== $ ====================
=============== $ ====================
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
ncscoots
April 24th, 2009
4:34 pm
still dont understand why is KJ in the lineup
Good Christ, is that in every doggone post you put up? Believe me, we got it that Johnson is the embodiment of evil to you, we don’t need you to remind us every ten blinkin’ minutes. Geez.
Anders
April 24th, 2009
4:35 pm
The only real concern I had until last weekend was that the Marlins would stay as red hot as they were. If they go out 20-5 or something then we’d all have a problem. Looks like they’ve come back to earth some so hopefully we can all relax now and let our teams find their groove (hopefully).
Il Cattivo
April 24th, 2009
4:35 pm
Read this way it could be quite funny .. ( or not)
David O’Brien
April 24th, 2009
11:35 am
We’re in the hotel here in Covington, Ky., across the river from downtown Cincy. We’ll get started on a new blog now, good people.
Josh B
April 24th, 2009
4:31 pm
DOB, are you and Mark Bowman the same person? Because both of you guys were off on the same series. OR maybe you too are just best friends and you made a road trip together.
TJ
April 24th, 2009
4:35 pm
Wow 198 people so far would want never pitched in the majors Tommy Hanson to be their hypothetical game 7 starter?
Seriously. At this stage of his career, Hanson would probably overthrow from the mere excitement of a game 7, much like he did in ST.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
4:35 pm
Finding one big bat is A LOT EASIER than find 2 quality starting pitchers. Especially when you have 4 talented-starting middle infielders that could be traded along with young pitching prospects.
Anders
April 24th, 2009
4:37 pm
Salamander – I disagree with you. I think there will be bats available. The two questions for the Braves will be, are they willing to part with a prospect or two? Are they willing to add payroll, possibly into next year as well?
Macon Braves (RIP)
April 24th, 2009
4:37 pm
MetroMan—The juggernaughts…..ROFLMAO!!!!!!!!!!! If juggernaughts means sucky starting pitching, then you nailed that one on the head.
And Tommy Hanson taking his lumps huh? You might wanna check some stats before making that claim. Guy has a 2.45 ERA, 1.16 WHIP with 23 K’s in 14 IP, and only 5 BB’s. He is 0-2, but he can thank his offense for that, no run support in his starts.
Long season to go and I don’t see the Mets, Phillies, and Braves all being under .500 in a month or so, but the obvious lack of starting pitching in Phillie and NY is gonna keep them from being your “juggernaughts” (As will the lack of hitting by the Braves prevent them from being a “juggernaught” either) I think all three teams better be hoping that the Marlins keep sliding as they have the last week or that team has the capability, with that starting rotation, of leaving the rest of the division in the dust.
Random
April 24th, 2009
4:37 pm
Anders, winterville —
Too many hyperlinks maybe? two’s the limit, I think.
TnBrian
April 24th, 2009
4:38 pm
MetroMan , I think you need to look at the bigger picture though. Our starters have been solid and it’s not jumping the gun at all to label our pen as “coming around” either. That’s a good sign and the bats are a question, but we kinda knew that coming into the season. Your team, on the other hand, has serious rotation issues and the same problem the Braves are having with key hits, etc. Having a great pen means nothing if your starters can’t hold a lead, or never had the lead to begin with.
P-Town Brave (Let Your Bobby, TP, Snitker, Chino Go)
April 24th, 2009
4:38 pm
This has probably already been harped on but-
• Kelly Johnson is 2-for-23 (.087) with no extra-base hits and one RBI in his past seven games, for an .087 slugging percentage.
• Yunel Escobar is 3-for-24 (.125) with no extra-base hits and no RBI in his past six games, for a .125 slugging percentage.
Maybe this should lead to my needing of an explanation as to why they’re still batting 1-2 while this is going on…
Calling Schafer and Kotchman to the front of the line…
Also, I would appreciate Brandon getting a start either tonight or during tomorrow’s day game…ya know, since the Reds are RHP heavy…thus also my call for Schafer 1 and Kotchman 2 while they’re both getting hot and while Kelly is doing his usual and Yunel is getting back to being healthy
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
4:39 pm
Has anyone ever seen DOB and Mark Bowman in the same place at once?
McFann :Ô:
April 24th, 2009
4:39 pm
a643dp–
“Tell me who’s watching me…”
ncscoots @ 4:34–
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
4:41 pm
Yunel Escobar is 3-for-24 (.125) with no extra-base hits and no RBI in his past six games, for a .125 slugging percentage.
What were his stats before the jumping ban?
Lew
April 24th, 2009
4:41 pm
I sure am glad that Brandon caught an early flight from Gwinnett.
MetroDude-We’ve discussed this before-being a Mets’ fan points to a character flaw-NOT intelligence.
Anders-Looks like the AJC finally has your number. But only 2 of 3 got zapped? Always room for improvement.
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
4:41 pm
Il Cattivo, lol @ 4:35. Definitely funny.
MariettaDerek
April 24th, 2009
4:42 pm
Love the line-up. Hopefully we’ll see Brandon instead of Norton late innings. JV goes 7! Chipper homers. The Bravos get a little double pits to chesty with it!
Chop Chop
April 24th, 2009
4:42 pm
I wouldn’t mind seeing Kotchman in the two slot. He’ll ground into as many double plays as Yunel, so we wouldn’t be losing much, right?
Anders
April 24th, 2009
4:42 pm
DOB and Mark Bowman = Thelma and Louise. Cruising from MLB park to MLB park.
Lou Brown
April 24th, 2009
4:42 pm
Startin to come together Patrick starting to come together.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
4:42 pm
I do agree that your 1/2 guys in the lineup are struggling…and you wont think of playing Infante/Prado/Schafer in those spots…is disturbing…especially when scoring…6 runs against the Nats in 3 games.
Chop Chop
April 24th, 2009
4:43 pm
Okay. I’m calling it.
“Double pits to chesty with it” is 2009’s version of the Great Cow.
This team is cursed, folks.
bgvt
April 24th, 2009
4:44 pm
One big bat? I think Texas has a fifth outfielder with a hot bat — the guy even owns a house in Atlanta. Plus, there are probably a few talented to Braves prospects who would like to play with their former teammates again.
I’m kidding but I figured it might stir things up. BTW, the Rangers used Andruw at first base late in yesterday’s game. His one outfield start was in left field in a game in which they used Marlon Byrd in center. What gives? I figured once AJ’s knees got better, he would still be an above average defensive outfielder.
Anders
April 24th, 2009
4:44 pm
Lew- The AJC shouldn’t be discouraging any visitors to their site with their industry being in the mess it’s in.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
4:45 pm
Problem with Kotchman in the 2-spot is he is so darn slow…I always picture the 1-2 guys with having at least some speed. Infante, Prado, Schafer, KJ, Esco…all have at least some speed.
winterville
April 24th, 2009
4:45 pm
Random
It wasn’t that for me. I hardly ever link to anything. I didn’t believe all the other people when they said it was happening and I thought they were just being impatient but then it happened to me. It may have had to do with how many people were posting when I was trying to but that is just a theory. I posted during one of the eruption periods when nothing was going right. We were filling up pages at a pretty high clip.
Serbok
April 24th, 2009
4:46 pm
Soriano!!!
“Un-Hittable” last nitE!!!
March 20??
Has to be a “Typo?” For Anderson on DL?
I’ve only seen a “handful” of games this year~ I’ve seen Anderson in a few of them,
Afraid, he’s gonna be “Low-Impact” player this year:-( Just comes off~
Blase’ (SP) Doesnt appear to be a player that “hustles?” Still early tho.
mlb.com, has made enormous!!!! Technological advances since last year!
The HD is awesome!! For 20 Bux a mos! Cant beat it!
AustinBrave
April 24th, 2009
4:46 pm
We may not have the cash needed for a big bat, but we have more trade bait then anyone in baseball right now. And remember we don’t mind trading (McGriff, Teixeira, etc..) get the hint. We will be there at the end.
ncscoots
April 24th, 2009
4:46 pm
This has probably already been harped on but
“Harping” usually connotes more than a single reference (yours).
Lew
April 24th, 2009
4:47 pm
Run Heap Run- I saw them both (and Carroll, too) at Spring Training last year.
Metropolitan Man1
April 24th, 2009
4:49 pm
TnBrian and Macon Braves (RIP:
You guys have to realize the braves came out the gate just like the Marlins, everything clinking on all cylinders, the braves just resorted back to reality faster, Why? Chipper, and Macann + a suspect bullpen equal a fall from grace. I agree with the point of the Mets and Philthies pitching coming around while the braves bats and pen get it together. But the other team have yet to go on a streak like the braves did and are still only have a game or two difference in the standings.
Lew: Its one character flaw that I can live with. Now being a braves fan should leave you drunk and depressed.
Lew
April 24th, 2009
4:50 pm
Anders-This blog already supports most of the paper with the ad revenue we generate. Just giving you a bit of grief. Why are you and MetroDude even here today? It’s not as if the Mets have won recently or anything.
eltrompoBRAVESfan
April 24th, 2009
4:50 pm
I’d like to see DOB and Bowman in a (w)itch slap fight……good entertainment.
fat people sink faster
April 24th, 2009
4:50 pm
kotch has no shot at crossing the plate on a 2bagger from first…at least esco has a chance
Tennbravefan
April 24th, 2009
4:51 pm
Ok so part of what I said the other day has happened. Anderson to DL and Brandon Jones recalled. Now move Kotchman to the two spot, let prado leadoff and get infante more playing time. If nothing else to pressure Johnson and Escobar to produce.
P-Town Brave (Let Your Bobby, TP, Snitker, Chino Go)
April 24th, 2009
4:52 pm
Ncscoots-
He does pose a point…
Might I reflect again…
• Kelly Johnson is 2-for-23 (.087) with no extra-base hits and one RBI in his past seven games, for an .087 slugging percentage.
This while Prado is hitting a crisp .368 while going 5 of his last 12 along w/ 3 BB (since Apr 17)…
In the same time frame since April 17th, good old Kelly has gone 2 for 18 w/ 3 BB…basically meaning in 6 less plate appearances Martin has 3 more hits…
Its hard not to beat on this while not only do they continue to play Kelly on a regular basis, BUT they also continue to bat him leadoff, a spot in which you and I both know he’s not comfortable, nor will he produce on a regular basis in.
Like it or not, Kelly should get some days off, AND he shouldn’t be hitting leadoff when he does play…
Here’s a few more alarming stats for him:
v RHP: 4 for 29 (.138/.219/.276) (only 2 xbh and 1 rbi)
On the Road: 4 for 31 (.129/.229/.226) (1 xbh and 3 rbi)
Day Games: 0 for 14
Lew
April 24th, 2009
4:52 pm
ChopChop-Maybe we need to track down Marietta Derek and sacrifice him at the foot of the Great Cow before a game during the next home stand?
Tomahawkin
April 24th, 2009
4:52 pm
Run Heap Run…
“Tomahawkin – I’ve noticed…I like our chances tonight. Hoss’s birthday plus temps in the 80’s in Cincy today = Braves win!
For his career on April 24, he’s hitting .500 (18-of-36) with four homers, eight RBI and 10 runs.”
I like those stats for Chipper on his B-Day…Plus Warm weather in Da Natti equals A “W”…And This offense will get on track. Tonight’s the Night!
Just Hope that Javy-V keeps the ball down tonight as well…
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
4:53 pm
I just tend to ignore Mets fans…new stadium, ridiculous payroll…and they still can’t win games. They upgraded their bullpen…but have no way of getting to that pen with a lead…just a stupid idea. Starting pitching for the Phillies and Mets just isnt going to be great…and if the offense stumbles they are going to be in a world of hurt most nights that Hamels/Santana don’t pitch.
eltrompoBRAVESfan
April 24th, 2009
4:53 pm
Lew- lol
Bravesfan54
April 24th, 2009
4:54 pm
MariettaDerek: “your and idiot”.
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
4:54 pm
I’m not sure Kotch could score from 2nd on a double – lol.
Well darn Lew, so much for that theory.
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
4:56 pm
From Adam Rubin, via Neyer:
A team insider later elaborated that no one, aside from Johan Santana, has immunity. Translation: Perez or Pelfrey, who can be optioned to the minors without passing through waivers, could be ticketed for the minors, while Livan Hernandez’s standing as fifth starter could be on shaky ground.
*****
I admire the aggressive stance, but… where are they gonna find three or four starters as good as those ones are when they are pitching well? Not a hypothetical question. I’m really asking… what could they possibly be planning? Can’t understand putting their feet to the fire this early after Pelf/Ollie/Maine have proven they can pitch. Or maybe I’m missing something. Is there a Starting Pitcher Tree? Or a hot-prospect-to-fetch-a-trade Tree? Seems like they’re freaking out.
P-Town Brave (Let Your Bobby, TP, Snitker, Chino Go)
April 24th, 2009
4:57 pm
Run Heap Run-
I agree w/ you there…as I believe its just part of Esco’s routine and anything getting him out of his usual .300 hitter routine isn’t a good thing!
MFin-
Yes Kotchman is slower than the service at Steak n Shake, BUT, I believe him being LH helps in multiple ways.
1) It opens the hole up on the right side for if he hits it there Schafer can go 1st to 3b easily
2) It makes it harder to throw Schafer out at 2b if he decides to swipe one as its an extra step for the catcher to move to his left around Kotchman
3) If we ever did play hit and run, Casey is good enough with the bat to hit the ball the other way if the SS covers 2b on the hit and run
Interested Observer
April 24th, 2009
4:57 pm
Kelly will get a day off as soon as he starts hitting again. That’s Bobby ball.
Salamander
April 24th, 2009
4:58 pm
Salamander – I disagree with you. I think there will be bats available. The two questions for the Braves will be, are they willing to part with a prospect or two? Are they willing to add payroll, possibly into next year as well? Anders
Will the Braves part with prospects? likely. Add money? Reluctantly – but then again, it may not even be available to add.
You mentioned that quality hitters will be available at the trade deadline. Can you name some for me to mull over that aren’t going to be overpaid rent-a-players like Holliday?
Anders
April 24th, 2009
4:58 pm
Hey Lew, can we now agree that Garret Anderson = Moises Alou? Back before the season started you gave me grief for posting that.
Kim
April 24th, 2009
4:59 pm
Random – You just made my afternoon! That was a good one!
semiballcoach
April 24th, 2009
4:59 pm
more appropriate skynyrd song for this blog–either denizens or bobby cox–i know a little
Macon Braves (RIP)
April 24th, 2009
4:59 pm
MetroMan–Noticed no more bashing of Mr. Hanson from you on that last post. Guess you couldn’t find those lumps on his noggin after taking a closer look huh.
Like I said, a loonnnggg way to go, so current standings really don’t have any bearing on what’s gonna happen throughout the season most likely. But the Braves (my team obviously), the Mutts, and the Phils had better take the Marlins very seriously because that starting rotation could allow them to go on quite a few runs throughout the season. And I would rather have a team that can outpitch the other team every night than a team that relies on outslugging the other team.
AustinBrave–Please, no more reminders of the Tex trade. You just darkened my bright Friday afternoon a bit.
a643dp
April 24th, 2009
4:59 pm
This makes ya wanna take take the whole family to the ballpark.
http://www.ajc.com/metro/content/metro/atlanta/stories/2009/04/23/arrests_0424_web.html?cxntlid=homepage_tab_newstab&imw=Y
Lew
April 24th, 2009
5:00 pm
eltrompoBravesfan-Maybe we could get Salamander to bring the machete from one of those slasher flicks?
Chop Chop
April 24th, 2009
5:01 pm
I don’t know, Lew. I’d rather let the Great Cow chop him up. As the last fearsome blow from that hoof descends upon MariettaDerek, he will most assuredly know that he was, in fact, no pits to chesty with it.
I figure we can just dynamite the Great Cow…or build a Most High Hamburger Holy of Holies next to it to scare it off.
Tomahawkin
April 24th, 2009
5:02 pm
If we score fewer than 3 runs tonight I’m gonna be back on the ship of putting Schafer in the Leadoff slot…KJ is a far better hitter in the 6th and 7th slots…plus he has no added pressure of trying to get on base as he does in the leadoff role…
Lew
April 24th, 2009
5:03 pm
Anders-Well, it ain’t looking good re: Garrett to this point. I’ll definitely concede that. As for the entire season like Moises? Let’s wait a bit before we make that call. You should know by now that only Coach (Whatever Parenthetical Expression He’s Currently Using) has the prescience to call things this early.
Il Cattivo
April 24th, 2009
5:04 pm
Marietta Derek wont be difficult to spot. He will be the one walking up and down Cobb Parkway with an “Axe” ad hanging around his neck.
Lew
April 24th, 2009
5:05 pm
ChopChop-If I see that Freaking Cow chopping with Salamander’s machete, I will not attend a game until it leaves to eat more Chik in.
Anders
April 24th, 2009
5:06 pm
Lew – fair enough. Just busting back at you anyway.
monty
April 24th, 2009
5:06 pm
THings are starting to heat up between bloggers as game time approaches.(tension is mounting) Anyone know how the weather is in Cincy tonight? Any golf ball sized hail predicted like Atl. had last night?
Chop Chop
April 24th, 2009
5:07 pm
Come to think of it, I guess it would be appropriate for the Great Cow to slay MariettaDerek with an axe.
Chop Chop
April 24th, 2009
5:07 pm
Live by the Axe, die by the axe.
Doc Holiday
April 24th, 2009
5:08 pm
ncscoots,
If you were smart enough, you would have learned by now that if you dont like my post………..JUST DONT READ`EM………… If you keep reading them, thats a real proof that you just love reading what I post. So do yourself a favor, dont contradict yourself.
AustinBrave
April 24th, 2009
5:09 pm
Salamander- Try Ryan Braun from Milwaukee bats right handed plays left field and has hit over 30 home runs the last two years.Batting 327 this year. And boy does Milwaukee need pitching maybe JoJo and Morton who knows.
Salamander
April 24th, 2009
5:10 pm
ChopChop-Maybe we need to track down Marietta Derek and sacrifice him at the foot of the Great Cow before a game during the next home stand? Lew
Sounds like a good idea. Double pits to dead guy.
eltrompoBravesfan-Maybe we could get Salamander to bring the machete from one of those slasher flicks? Lew
I’m in.
McFann :Ô:
April 24th, 2009
5:10 pm
Run Heap Run, Tomahawkin–
I like our chances tonight, too! And the game can’t start soon enough for me!
Hey, do the Reds still have that shortstop they had last year? I think his name was Hairston or something…I’m gonna look that up…
Anders
April 24th, 2009
5:10 pm
Lots of talk up here about empty expensive seats in the new parks but has anyone seen any figures about how baseball is doing as a whole? I haven’t. I know it’s real early but I was wondering. When I turn on the MLB network for updates I see lots of guys rounding the bases in other parks with many empty seats in the background.
Jeff R
April 24th, 2009
5:10 pm
As DOB wrote, back end of the bullpen may be shaping up, but what about the middle relievers? Cox had Jair pitch into the seventh against the Nats on Wednesday night. He wasn’t going to his middle relievers.
Granted, it’s early, but if you look at the talent in middle relief corp, it’s pretty thin. They’re mostly scrubs. Braves used to be really good at finding second and third tier pitchers, shaping them up and getting good mileage out of them. No more, it seems.
monty
April 24th, 2009
5:11 pm
Anyone seen that base running blunder on one of those “worst of” shows? I believe it was Rueben Sierra, trying to score from second base. Hilarious.
Salamander
April 24th, 2009
5:12 pm
Try Ryan Braun from Milwaukee bats right handed plays left field and has hit over 30 home runs the last two years.Batting 327 this year. And boy does Milwaukee need pitching maybe JoJo and Morton who knows.
Is Braun likely to be available? I always thought the Brewers would hold him close to the chest for as long as possible.
Tomahawkin
April 24th, 2009
5:15 pm
McFann…
Alex Gonzalez was supposed to be the Starting SS for Cincy…
I don’t know how that has turned out but as of S. Training he’s the Starting SS…
Saff
April 24th, 2009
5:15 pm
Brauns going to stay in Milwaukee for a long time to come that was a dumb comment hes young and way to affordable.
fat people sink faster
April 24th, 2009
5:16 pm
braun wont go anywhere
mbatl
April 24th, 2009
5:16 pm
Braun is NOT likely to be available. Great contract (for the Brewers) for a very good hitter. They’re not about to trade him for a couple of AAAA pitchers.
Andyman
April 24th, 2009
5:17 pm
Anders – I don’t have hard numbers to back me up, but I thought I heard someone (I’m thinking Buster Olney but could be wrong) say that attendance was down overall.
AustinBrave
April 24th, 2009
5:18 pm
Who knows if Braun would be available. All anyone knows is that Milwaukee may have one of the worst pitching staffs in the majors. They need help and so do we, sounds like a good trade to me.
Il Cattivo
April 24th, 2009
5:19 pm
Jeff R – Carlyle and Campillo are those 2nd and 3rd tier pitchers you are talking about. Carlyle has been pretty good whenever called in barring occasion setbacks (which are why they are 2nd and 3rd tier in the first place). Campillo usually is good and the fact that he was DLed after couple of bad outings might have some correlation. Jeff Bennett hasnt been good but previously was good to get ground balls when needed. I say when Campillo comes back our middle relief looks pretty good ( on paper atleast).
McFann :Ô:
April 24th, 2009
5:19 pm
Tomahawkin–
Yeah, I just went on the Reds’ website and looked him up. Hairston, who’s been battling a leg issue, is in the OF this year.
At least being out there Hairston can’t make any smart remarks if one of our guys breaks their pitcher’s no-hitter…
Tomahawkin
April 24th, 2009
5:19 pm
To All the Talk about trading for Ryan Braun…
There is No Chance In Hell That Milwaukee Would Dump off one of its Franchise Players, In Ryan Braun. He Is Locked up…
No Offense to some, But Come On People, This Isn’t Fantasy-Land Playstation 2 Baseball, Where You can trade for anyone overnight…Be realistic for once, unless I hear about a traderumor via a credible source I don’t specualte much on trades til July…
cabravesfan
April 24th, 2009
5:22 pm
Hey DOB thanks for the recommendation on Manchester Orchestra I was not familiar with them- They are really good- just downloaded several songs (iTunes + bored at work = new music for me
)
spotts
April 24th, 2009
5:23 pm
Why are my posts being eaten??!?
spotts
April 24th, 2009
5:23 pm
Oh, but THAT one shows up…
Metropolitan Man1
April 24th, 2009
5:24 pm
Well Lew, now that the blog has gone back to some normalcy, its not hard to talk baseball here. Way to many phonies on here duirng the 1st week of the season. Anyway Mets haven’t won anything but a division title in 06′ and I was here before and after that. However, your insight into baseball always starts a good converstaion as you usually are blind to braves shortcoming until it gets blatant. How blatnat will it have to get in 09′ for you to come around….I give it to June.
Tomahawkin
April 24th, 2009
5:24 pm
McFann Do U have a bedroom Decked OUT in McCann Memorabilla…?
I have seen Pictures of Braves fans who’ve had their bedrooms decked out in D. Justice garb (Cards, Magazines, and other collectables…), and was wondering to you go all out to have your own collection…?
Back In the day I had a Crap-load of Griffey stuff (Nike Shoes, about 400 Cards, Posters, Magazines, other collectables as well) And I just wonder If you’ve taken suit…?
AustinBrave
April 24th, 2009
5:24 pm
Would you trade Hudson for Braun?
spotts
April 24th, 2009
5:25 pm
Jojo and Morton for Ryan Braun? And I thought the ridiculously dumb trade proposals died along with the offseason.
Doc Holiday
April 24th, 2009
5:26 pm
When players are hot (Infante, Prado) you let them play…………….when players are not (you let them regroup and take their time (KJ, Yunel, JF last year). Thats just the correct way of doing things.
Same for pitchers……… Gonzo is kind of wild, you move him to the 7th or 8th………Soriano is hot, you let him close every single game he is available for.
thats how you should use your weapons, not letting them find the timing for 10 games while going 2 for 30……….thats not the way it work
spotts
April 24th, 2009
5:26 pm
Morton and Reyes for Braun? And here I thought the ridiculously dumb trade proposals died with the offseason.
Logan
April 24th, 2009
5:26 pm
I’m with ya Lou. We’ll burn em at the STEAK.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
5:26 pm
Attendance is down…but I wonder how much of bad weather…rain/snow/cold weather plays into those figures. I’m sure by the middle of the summer…people will be out at baseball games. Not sure if those figures…figuring in all those factors. Attendance is down almost 10,000 for both the Mets and Yankees…mostly because ticket prices at the new stadiums are asinine…saw that on MLB Network.
Doc Holiday
April 24th, 2009
5:27 pm
you never trade an ACE for good hitter straight up……….not even for a great hitter straight up…….. Pitching rules, hitters are everywhere (but in atlanta, LOL)
Salamander
April 24th, 2009
5:27 pm
Who knows if Braun would be available. All anyone knows is that Milwaukee may have one of the worst pitching staffs in the majors. They need help and so do we, sounds like a good trade to me. Austinbrave
Yeah, but as others have pointed out for me, he is young (25) and cheap and Morton/Reyes aren’t going to pry him away from the Brewers.
So my original question stands: name a quality, impact bat that is LIKELY to be available come July. I’m sticking to my position that at best the braves will find a hitter with pop on the wrong side of 30 – not a real piece, just fluff.
Necromancer
April 24th, 2009
5:27 pm
I hope the Braves impotent offense won’t rub off on Brandon Jones.
Tom O'Hawke
April 24th, 2009
5:28 pm
Anders, I’ve been trying, over and over, for some time now, to tell you how to avoid losing your posts. Apparently, my posts got lost.
Anders
April 24th, 2009
5:29 pm
Would you trade Hudson for Braun? (AustinBrave)
Would you trade Jurrjens for Braun? They might pick up that phone call.
spotts
April 24th, 2009
5:30 pm
Jojo and Morton for Braun? And I thought the ridiculously dumb trade proposals died with the offseason.
McFann :Ô:
April 24th, 2009
5:30 pm
Tomahawkin–
Oh yeah! Let’s see…I’ve got the program from the April 30, 2006 Braves-Mets game on my nightstand (BMac’s on the cover…they say a pictures worth a thousand words, well…), I’ve got a few photos taped on the back of my closet door…my bulletin-board’s got a few, two…of course I’ve got my autograph from Lew</strong…
My #16 hat hangs on my bed’s headboard when I’m not wearing it.
Yeah, I don’t think anyone would have any trouble figuring out who my all-time favorite Brave is if they walked into my room.
(Am I old enough to have an all-time favorite Brave…?)
Salamander
April 24th, 2009
5:30 pm
Would you trade Hudson for Braun?
Is that a real question? Would the Brewers accept a coming-off-major-arm-surgery 33 year old pitcher with a high salary for one of the best young outfielders in the NL?
McFann :Ô:
April 24th, 2009
5:31 pm
Oops…don’t know what happened there. Sorry…
David O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
5:31 pm
Trade Ryan Braun? That’s like some bloggers in, say, Houston, suggesting that the Braves might trade them Brian McCann.
Chop Chop
April 24th, 2009
5:31 pm
Salamander,
Is KC the Brewers’ GM? If so…
mbatl
April 24th, 2009
5:32 pm
“Would you trade Hudson for Braun?” – AustinBrave
Would you trade Braun for Hudson (coming off TJ surgery, under contract for one year)?
If you want Braun (and I don’t think you could get him, period), think in terms of Hanson or JJ, and Freeman (so the Brewers can let Fielder go).
It ain’t happening.
Treehouse
April 24th, 2009
5:32 pm
Anyone suggesting or even thinking the Brewers would even think about trading Braun, must not know anything about baseball. It’s not happening, people. Or should I say, dummies.
AustinBrave
April 24th, 2009
5:32 pm
I would wait to the trade dead line and see how our new pitchers are doing. Knowing we have Hanson, Medlen I might trade Hudson. Time will tell remember we only have one option left on Hudson.
Tomahawkin
April 24th, 2009
5:32 pm
Salamander,
The Only Impact Bats I want to See Come to the “A” in July are Vladimir Guerrero (Although he’s injured rite now) or Matt Holliday…
And that point is moot because both of them will be F. Agents at the end of the year…And I’m tired of dealing with players for Rent…
Plus Both New Yawk Teams will be Hard On for those two and it doesn’t make sense to try and outbid those two via giving up the Farm…
That Strategy Didn’t pan out with Tex (We are seeing that Now) so I rather go with the Kids. Plus It’s Way too early to talk trades…
nolie
April 24th, 2009
5:33 pm
The good thing is that you regress to the mean from both directions; (scoots)
in a baseball sense, “regress” sounds right when you are coming down to the mean, but sounds kinda weird when you are actually going up. always thought that, I did.
Salamander
April 24th, 2009
5:33 pm
Didn’t mean to sound so harsh Austinbrave, but I doubt Hudson has any real trade value until he pitches well for at least a few months.
Necromancer
April 24th, 2009
5:33 pm
anyone think the Braves can turn it around tonight?
Tomas
April 24th, 2009
5:34 pm
Vazquez needs to be carefull today with Joey Votto. I’ve seen a lot of reds game lately, and this guy is so hot right now, that hell would be cold right now. I’d compare him even to the all mighty Pujols, un pitchable.
The rest of their lineup isn’t as impressive, but they have some guys like Jay Bruce, and Brandon Phillips who can hit.
McFann :Ô:
April 24th, 2009
5:34 pm
DOB–
Tomahawkin
April 24th, 2009
5:36 pm
McFann… Cheese-Whiz!
Beckett Baseball Magazine Used to do Fan of the Month Pictures, before that company got business-minded and went to the toilet…
One Of My-Former Managers is like that…He’s one of those types that If he goes to the team stores he can’t Leave with spending 500 Bucks on LSU Stuff…LOL, I know how addictive it is…
Anders
April 24th, 2009
5:37 pm
Well, my Rangers are playing to knock out the might Alex O tonight so I’m outa here. Talk with you either later tonight or over the weekend.
Salamander
April 24th, 2009
5:37 pm
That Strategy Didn’t pan out with Tex (We are seeing that Now) so I rather go with the Kids. Plus It’s Way too early to talk trades… Tomahawkin
Yeah – I shouldn’t have opened the Ryan Braun can-o-worms, but Anders thought impact bats would be available @ the deadline, and I wanted to know if he had anyone in mind because i don’t see jack sh-t being available that isn’t old and/or expensive.
back later tonight.
McFann :Ô:
April 24th, 2009
5:38 pm
Necromancer anyone think the Braves can turn it around tonight?
I believe it…I really believe it!
Tomas I’ve seen a lot of reds game lately, and this guy is so hot right now
[sigh!] I wish ya hadn’t brought that up…
Dan DC
April 24th, 2009
5:38 pm
DOB – Is there any way the AJC can add a filter to your blogs so that I can only read your comments?
McFann :Ô:
April 24th, 2009
5:40 pm
Tomahawkin–
Yeah…one of my most prized, non-Religious possessions is my BMac jersey. It got washed for the first time yesterday…thankfully, it survived.
Tommy
April 24th, 2009
5:44 pm
Yo Garrett,
How about stretching occasionally!
David O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
5:44 pm
Tomorrow’s starter Lowe 3-1 in four starts against Cincinnati, including 3-0 with a 0.55 ERA and .096 opponents’ average in his past three.
Woogidy
April 24th, 2009
5:46 pm
So, Mondesi is on the DL.
Brady
April 24th, 2009
5:48 pm
I agree with Dan DC…I just scroll down until I see DOB’s comments or Carrol’s comments…because their is a lot of outrageous postings on these blogs that seriously waste me time.
Brady
April 24th, 2009
5:49 pm
*my time
Reid in EAV
April 24th, 2009
5:49 pm
Not that it matters at all in terms of reality, but for what it’s worth, I’m voting for Anders to represent Met fans on here, vs. the obnoxious MetroMan. Anders (while he roots for the wrong team) is still intellectually honest, clear-headed, civil and seems to know baseball pretty darn well. MetMan, on the other hand, lives in a fantasyland where the Mets have inherent superiority just by putting on the blue and orange unis, and the collapses of 2007 and 2008 never actually happened.
Treehouse
April 24th, 2009
5:50 pm
Brady, your post just wasted ME time!
Woogidy
April 24th, 2009
5:50 pm
Garrett and Chipper must work out together in the offseason. Geez. Abreu for 5 mil is looking like the way FW should have gone.
Oh well. I’t is only April
Lew
April 24th, 2009
5:51 pm
Ryan Braun will not go for JoJo Reyes and Charlie Morton-that’s for certain (and like several have said-unlikely to even be considered for a trade). Yet another case of someone thinking that a ML club will trade us a superstar for some dregs we decided won’t ever help us.
MetroDude-You think I’m blind to the fact that early in the year the Braves bullpen sucked or that over the past couple of weeks that they can’t score runs? I’m nowhere near as blind as you are if you actually think that a.The Mets’ starters will get better or b. That the Mets will go out and buy someone else to start? If they do it certainly won’t be anyone better than an over the hill Pedro or Paul Byrd-who are probably not much better than what you already have. I still contend that if they really had all this money y’all keep claiming (for four years now) you have, they wouldn’t have started the season with your current crop of n’er do wells.
JasonInFL (Formerly ME)
April 24th, 2009
5:51 pm
Matt Holliday will be available as soon as they A’s realize they aren’t going to contend. But, he is a FA. Maybe we can rip of Beane like we did in the Hudson deal?
Gil In Mechanicsville
April 24th, 2009
5:53 pm
When speculating about players who are currently employed by other teams, no need to even consider it until July. Only hope is to catch lightning in a bottle picking up an underachiver who has been released. Change of scenery theory…. Only seems to work however with players released by thr Braves, not the other way around.
Bottom line, Keep your nose in your own bag….
McFann :Ô:
April 24th, 2009
5:56 pm
Man, Hairston’s not playing tonight!
It’s funny…seems like every team has that one guy that really bugs me…
nolie
April 24th, 2009
6:03 pm
(TnBrave) Fargo rocks.
Doc Holiday
April 24th, 2009
6:03 pm
Sorry, but sending Hudson for Braun would be a steal……..and the braves would not be the winners in that transaction.
Treehouse
April 24th, 2009
6:07 pm
Doc – your post is dumb.
nolie
April 24th, 2009
6:07 pm
So whats the deal with Borchard? Released or Reserve List? If he was reserve I’d imagine they’d call him back for AAA since Brandon just got the call. (Andy K)
if they have any sense they released him. another one trick pony, nothing but power. It always amazes me that somebody is always gungho for those kinda guys and they never amount to anything . The guy can’t even hit his own weight, and his OBP sucks too.
David O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
6:11 pm
Last update on B. Jones: Not supposed to arrive until mid-game, all flights were booked earlier in day, so he’s on one supposed to land after 7 p.m.
Myrtle
April 24th, 2009
6:12 pm
“Chipper turns 37 today”
Good gracious. I thought he turned 47, the fellow is sick so much.
Efrim
April 24th, 2009
6:12 pm
Braun for Morton and Reyes? That will keep me amused for a long time.
nolie
April 24th, 2009
6:14 pm
sorry I don’t associate masterpiece with box office success. Don’t know many who would (BUB D)
I don’t either, but I do consider Jaws to be a classic movie. One of my mostest favorites everest.
Metropolitan Man1
April 24th, 2009
6:15 pm
Reid in EAV: Glad your an Anders fan, didn’t know I was here looking for fans. Thanks for my nomination though. I aknowlege the collapses and have actually tone down my pro Mets, anti braves blogging here becasue of it. I live in reality, I know the Mets are a hot mess right now, so I look at the opponents, size them up and see if the Mets can capitalize by being the best of the worst if not the best of the best.
Lew: Hope you enjoy the game tonight. I see some things never change. Which team do you think is more incline to trade highly touted farm players for an All Star player to win NOW? Of course I wouldn’t want to see the Mets lose a prize in the minors, but they would pull the trigger before the braves would. However, they may not have to. With Madoffs assets getting sold left and right and being divided to the swindled, Wilpon can see the light and pay out money to a player that wasn’t available in the offseason.
Tom O'Hawke
April 24th, 2009
6:19 pm
ease19 … I don’t have a garden, but a friend of mine does. He buys this dry, powdery stuff in a plastic jar at Wal*Marts. It’s abour $8. He swears by it, not at it. You just sprinkle some around the perimeter of your garden and eureka (Greek for bingo)!
BTW, if you want a more original name for the chipmunk, besides “Chip”, how about “Adrian”? It works with either sex and Adrian Munk = Adrian Monk. See what I’m doing there? Get it? (I know what you’re thinking, I should rename myself “Tom O’Silly”)
Brady … If you’re still reading this … sorry, man, sorry.
PWHjort
April 24th, 2009
6:20 pm
I’ve been saying this all along, but Yunel Escobar needs to be in the leadoff spot rather than Kelly Johnson for the following reasons (so long as putting Schafer in the lead-off spot isn’t in Bobby’s realm of possibilities):
1) Escobar hits into entirely too many double plays, we’d likely minimize that by hitting him leadoff.
2) Kelly Johnson isn’t suited for the leadoff role. Not that Escobar is, but I think he’s more suited for that role than KJ.
3) Escobar’s LD% and GB% are more conducive to leading off than Kelly’s.
4) Doing the same thing and expecting different results is lunacy. Kelly leading off and Escobar hitting 2nd is obviously not working. We’re not scoring enough runs.
5) Kelly looks like a hack in the leadoff role, not taking any pitches and swinging away. Moving him down would allow him to take more pitches. Being selective leads to power.
David O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
6:21 pm
Josh B, you’ve obviously never seen Bowman.
He outweighs me by about a hundy, and he was home with his folks in West Virginia during the D.C. series. I was home in Atlanta.
lexbrave
April 24th, 2009
6:22 pm
didn’t see anyone post it, but devine just had tommy john surgery. so for what its worth, he likely wouldn’t be much help to us right now should we have not traded him.
HI my name is Garret Anderson and Im a flop!
April 24th, 2009
6:22 pm
hey all
The ghost of Eli Marrero
April 24th, 2009
6:25 pm
Thanks for coming into spring training out of shape G. Anderson. True pro…
HI my name is Garret Anderson and Im a flop!
April 24th, 2009
6:26 pm
hey, not a problem!
Buffalo NY Braves Fan
April 24th, 2009
6:28 pm
Whoever suggested Braun for Morton and Reyes….
Put down your PS3 controller, and step away from “the show”…..
Mad Max
April 24th, 2009
6:29 pm
Watch all the baseball you can. For now. ‘Cause pretty soon there won’t be any more baseball, no more American pasttime. You’ll be spending all your time combing through the rubble of the postapocolypic wasteland hoping to find pieces of cloth that you can stitch into a kind of blanket or maybe a rusty can of peaches.
Mike in LA
April 24th, 2009
6:30 pm
**Austin Brave**, I think you’re right about the Braves trading chips but with the guys you mentioned they could probably only get someone like Corey Hart or Mike Cameron. It the Braves were to include someone like Medlan or Gorkys Hernandez they could probably get a better hitter. It’s still way too early to determine that the Braves need another bat. Lets wait and see how they do with healthier versions of Chipper and Mccann, how Schafer responds to some of the adjustments that pitchers are making, and if Francouer is able to sustain his hot streak and boost his hr total.
long time lurker, 1st time poster
April 24th, 2009
6:34 pm
DOB, SIAP… Shouldn’t Anderson’s DL stint be retroactive to April 20th and not March?
CorkylikesBeer
April 24th, 2009
6:36 pm
I saw Manchester here in Athens a couple nights ago and it was a good show…DOB..you need to see Modern Skirt…..
chc4
April 24th, 2009
6:39 pm
My opinion is that the Braves won’t make any major moves this season. They are willing to wait for Heyward, Freeman, Hanson, Medlen, etc even if it means having an irrelevant season in 2009 and even 2010.
dylan
April 24th, 2009
6:39 pm
I would like to re-state the point I made upon the news of Garret Anderson signing with the Braves…
DOB, I know you remember.
Garret Anderson=Raul Mondesi all over again.
All said and done Mondesi will have been more productive than GA will be. WOW
HI my name is Garret Anderson and Im a flop!
April 24th, 2009
6:42 pm
Well just to let you all know that I need to take some more days off so they are putting me on the DL. I’m sorry I don’t mean to hurt my fans feelings.
David O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
6:42 pm
McCANN scratched from lineup, no explanation yet.
Everyone moves up one spot in lineup, Ross hits eighth.
David O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
6:44 pm
Apparently the contact lens doesn’t feel any better today. (Understandable, actually, given the very strong winds blowing here. It’s dry and windy, not weather to get accustomed to wearing a new contact lens.)
But we’ll wait for official word.
Tom O'Hawke
April 24th, 2009
6:45 pm
DOB, I hope you find out about McCann, soon. Otherwise, we have one nervous young lady here.
chc4
April 24th, 2009
6:46 pm
My gosh, this is ridiculous. I’m all for not rushing guys back from injuries, but what the he!! is going on?
McFann =Ô=
April 24th, 2009
6:47 pm
Thanks for the info, Chief!
Anxiously awaiting that official word (again), but I’m sure you’re right.
CorkylikesBeer
April 24th, 2009
6:47 pm
Fred HIckman’s Career has tanked…..
McFann =Ô=
April 24th, 2009
6:47 pm
Tom O’Hawke–
Heh heh…who me?
P-Town Brave (Let Your Bobby, TP, Snitker, Chino Go)
April 24th, 2009
6:48 pm
PWH-
Great points about Esco leading off instead of KJ…what about Esco 1 Schafer 2…? That would make a bit more sense if we don’t want Schafer leading off but still want to play up to his aggressive nature…
Also, you have KJ’s Pop-out % handy? LoL…sorry, I just had to
Finally, I didn’t realize that me bringing up Ryan Braun would start all this talk….
Guys, I was seriously kidding…I even said as much…
There’s absolutely no way the Brewers give us Braun…short of maybe us sending Jair, Tommy, and BMac their way….
Hoping we score more than 1 run tonight, but not overly optimistic considering Volquez pitching and the same overall lineup w/ no real definitive changes hitting….
But then again, what else would I expect from the Old Man in the dugout…
AustinBrave
April 24th, 2009
6:50 pm
McCann needs to go ahead and have the eye surgery he will only be out a week or two. We don’t need this going on all year. Ross is a great backup.
Tom O'Hawke
April 24th, 2009
6:50 pm
McFann, that post got there 1 minute too late. I try to speed it up, but apparently, yelling at it doesn’t help.
What time do they do this pre-game show? Noon? The Lemmer and Chip Caray just got done saying McCann is in the lineup.
BossLady
April 24th, 2009
6:51 pm
Yeah!!!!!Yeah!!!!!Yeah!!!!!!Terence Moore is gone from the AJC.
Now I don’t have my lunch and dinner curdle in my stomach when I click on Sports in the AJC.
He ranks right up there with Steve Crane, Stone Mountain Toyota. I am really and “almost” willing to drive 65-70 miles to to slap him and tell him “I don’t want coffee and I would not buy a car from you”.
Moore always seperated races when all of sports fans are one. I would just sit back and wonder why the AJC kept him around. FOX 5 did not say whether it was voluntary or not but I believe it was not. That
Ken Griffey, Jr. lie he told was probably the last straw. The only thing AJC sports did not need was a devout racist, that is crazy.
That said, I will clean my keyboard of onion, celery, garlic from Shrimp Gumbo preparation and try to feed my family during the game.
bravesfan54
April 24th, 2009
6:51 pm
Anders – attendance is down 5% – I believe that this came from Bud Selig.
HI my name is Garret Anderson and Im a flop!
April 24th, 2009
6:52 pm
Well I’m not playing tonight. I’m gonna watch the Yankees and the Red Sox play…
Doc Holiday
April 24th, 2009
6:52 pm
Treehouse,
You are the best denizen on this blog, your post are the smartest post around. I congratulate you.
Your posts just make my day.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
6:55 pm
P-town that’s what I’ve been preaching as well…Esco 1—cuz of the DPs Schafer 2 cuz of his speed and Chipper behind him…and KJ in the 4,5,6 spot due to his power.
bravefaninok
April 24th, 2009
6:55 pm
hard to accurately judge attendance till school gets out.
bravesfan54
April 24th, 2009
6:56 pm
Il Cativo – Campillo declared his arm was dead. He pitched winter ball and WBC. I have very low expectations from him for weeks. He is probably not on the 60 day DL, but effectively will be, in my opinion.
McFann =Ô=
April 24th, 2009
6:56 pm
Tom O’Hawke–
Yeah, yelling does no good. Huh, I oughta know…
They said he’s in there, eh? Sheesh. Word must not have gotten to them yet.
Ah, boy…figures they gotta go to Great American Ballpark at a time like this. [sigh]…This is not optimal.
bravefaninok
April 24th, 2009
6:56 pm
Happy Birthday HOSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Chop Chop
April 24th, 2009
6:57 pm
McCann’s eye needs to ****ing suck it up and get its *** into that lineup.
F***!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
eltrompoBRAVESfan
April 24th, 2009
7:02 pm
whoa
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
7:02 pm
Yeh because…McCann has been a much better fielding catcher and hitting catcher compared to Ross this year? Grow up…Ross is hitting better and throwing runners out better.
bravesfan54
April 24th, 2009
7:03 pm
Brady – like, after a blown save, the ubiquitous comments to “DFA the MFlocker”!
bravesfan54
April 24th, 2009
7:04 pm
Whoops, since I’m not DOB or Carroll – Brady won’t see my comment, will he?
McFann =Ô=
April 24th, 2009
7:04 pm
MFin04–
FYI, Ross and McCann have each only thrown out one runner.
Couch Tater
April 24th, 2009
7:04 pm
Chop Chop,
Sounds like you need somadat skrimp gumbo.
Chop Chop
April 24th, 2009
7:06 pm
I just like the idea of using personification for someone’s eye. I mean, an eye doesn’t have an ***. An *** has an eye, but…
Anyway, let’s play ball.
eltrompoBRAVESfan
April 24th, 2009
7:08 pm
how many HR’s will be hit tonight?
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
7:08 pm
McFann…who do you think has the better %
knowitall
April 24th, 2009
7:10 pm
BossLady,
It was announced a couple of weeks ago that Terrence Moore was bought out along with some other AJC employees as part of a staff reduction.
MariettaDerek
April 24th, 2009
7:11 pm
Kotchman hitting clean-up? Definitely NOT double pits to chesty!
Macon Braves (RIP)
April 24th, 2009
7:11 pm
How in the world can anyone think that Tim Hudson has any trade value whatsoever right now??? The guy is coming off of surgery on his pitching arm!!!!!! No one is going to give the Braves anything of value for a guy that at best will be back in August and even if he is back by then there is no way to know if he will be anywhere near effective.
And the Brewers trading Ryan Braun??? Can I have a puff cause that must be some gooood bud!! They would listen if Hanson, Heyward, Freeman, or someone of that calibar prospect (and it would probably take more than one of them if Hanson wasn’t included) was offered to them, but why in the world would the Braves do a trade for him involving those guys?? They wouldn’t even give them up for Jake Peavy.
David from NY
April 24th, 2009
7:11 pm
Does anyone have the link to the streaming radio for this game? I’m up in New York.
McFann =Ô=
April 24th, 2009
7:12 pm
MFin04–
Yeah, I know…don’t kick me when I’m down…
eltrompoBRAVESfan
April 24th, 2009
7:12 pm
I said “double pits to chesty” to a woman friend of mine and thought it was an insult to a particular area on a woman’s body….
rob from sc
April 24th, 2009
7:13 pm
Mccann should just have the surgery now
bravesfan54
April 24th, 2009
7:13 pm
Lew you’re dead on concerning the Mets’ spending significant money at this point. I have read the tens (or hundreds?) of millions of the Wilpons’ money was stolen by Bernie Madoff. Their remaining money is likely not in Kruggerands either. Down economy, too. Yours is the safe bet.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
7:14 pm
McFann :Ô:, 5:10 pm “I like our chances tonight, too! And the game can’t start soon enough for me!”
You’re not going to like to hear this, but McCann has been scratched after taking BP. Kotch is hitting clean-up.
Joe and Boog were talking about lasik enhancement surgery.
eltrompoBRAVESfan
April 24th, 2009
7:14 pm
Anyone want to volunteer to do play-by-play duties?
MariettaDerek
April 24th, 2009
7:15 pm
KJ wiffs. Not DP to C!
mbatl
April 24th, 2009
7:17 pm
geez, got the radio on, and Don Sutton’s story about Volquez’s first name has to be the longest, most boring monologue I’ve ever heard (and it’s still going). I know Sutton’s “familiar” to a lot of Braves’ fans, but he just makes me wish for silence.
Doc Holiday
April 24th, 2009
7:17 pm
Way to go KJ……….. another K to start the game and the OBP climbing.
Treehouse
April 24th, 2009
7:18 pm
Quick 1-2-3 inning for the Reds. MLBtv has Powell and Sutton doing the play-by-play? They’re doing sports south now? I’m confused.
AdirondackDave
April 24th, 2009
7:19 pm
Metro Man — Fella, you really have to do some research before hammering Hanson for his AAA performance. The guy was lights out in his first two starts and gave up a few runs in his 3rd start. Absolutely pitiful run support is why he is 0-2. Braves brass and his fans couldn’t care less about his won-loss down there. I’ve seen the guy pitch twice now and I can tell you that your mets will be in for something special come July or so. Oh yeah, did I mention you get to hit against Hudson also come Aug./Sept. I can hardly wait…
abwright
April 24th, 2009
7:19 pm
Top of the first play by play.
KJ strikes out.
Yunel strikes out.
Chipper hits a slow roller to SS. Fortunately (for the Reds), they had a slow runner to throw out.
Made Volquez look like a champ.
K Johnson
April 24th, 2009
7:19 pm
Should I go ahead and pick up brunson arroyo on my fantasy team? He starts for the reds tomorrow. Surely he will do well.
Doc Holiday
April 24th, 2009
7:20 pm
So damn smart to keep the 2 coldest hitters batting in front of chipper………. Could you please change at least 1……old man………..change yunel because if not ill be hearing from lots of cry babies on this blog.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
7:21 pm
Too early to start b*tching? Bobby puts the same struggling lineup in…and they look like garbage. Infante and Prado 1,2 in the lineup looks better and better every game. That or throw Schafer in…he couldnt suck any worse than those two jokers.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
7:21 pm
Oh and MLBTV sucks again…they are supposed to have Boog…and whoever he is usually with…but they are having audio problems…so i think they just gave the radio feed with it.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
7:22 pm
Single for the Red’s lead off man, Taveras.
I’ve got to say that the top of the first was DPTC.
a643dp
April 24th, 2009
7:23 pm
Speaking of Hudson he has an interesting contract. A club option for 2010(12M) which the braves will pick up if he is healthy. However he can void the club option. Thank God Boras isnt his agent. It will be interesting to see what happens with Huddy.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
7:23 pm
Nice pitch by Vazquez to strike out the no. 2.
Treehouse
April 24th, 2009
7:25 pm
What was that?!
abwright
April 24th, 2009
7:25 pm
Ross loses the handle trying to throw behind the runner at 1st. Taveras makes it to second. (DPTC)
0-1 to Votto.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
7:28 pm
Votto single to center. Schafer’s throw to the plate cut off. 1-0 Reds lead. DPTC!
MariettaDerek
April 24th, 2009
7:28 pm
And Ross’ error leads to a run. 1-0 Reds. Definitely NOT double pits to chesty.
eltrompoBRAVESfan
April 24th, 2009
7:29 pm
I really hope we give JV a win tonight!!
mixxo
April 24th, 2009
7:29 pm
Well crap! Hope it’s not gonna be one of those nights.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
7:29 pm
Vazquez strikes out Phillips on a fast ball. 2 out. Votto still on first.
Trey
April 24th, 2009
7:31 pm
Can’t we just Mac some goggles to wear like Chris Sabo?
Tomas
April 24th, 2009
7:31 pm
You see, Votto is unpitchable right now. Good throw by Schafer, but Taveras is just too fast.
Treehouse
April 24th, 2009
7:31 pm
JV strikes out the side. Good work Ross!
Martin Prado
April 24th, 2009
7:32 pm
Hi sirs I’s thank you for notice that man girl kelly need bench and Me need to plays. I runs the base safe from now on.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
7:32 pm
Vazquez strikes out Bruce the Moose (swinging on a low and away breaking ball). Ross’s error costs a run. Vazquez looked sharp.
Will BC pinch hit for KJ and Yunel next time they’re up? If not, I fear a long night trailing by 1 run.
JasonInFL (Formerly ME)
April 24th, 2009
7:33 pm
This just in: Johan is pretty good…I fear for his safety…I am afraid the Mets are going to try and clone him…
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
7:33 pm
We are just finding ways to lose games and give up runs both offensively and defensively…just sickening.
Mixxo
April 24th, 2009
7:33 pm
Volquez’s cap ….WTF?!?!
Line drive up the middle oughta fix it.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
7:34 pm
Pitch Count Watch: 20-11 Braves….20 pitches per inning=5 innings….11 pitchers per inning=9 innings. Same thing every night.
Treehouse
April 24th, 2009
7:35 pm
Nice work Kotch!
abwright
April 24th, 2009
7:35 pm
Kotchman strikes out swinging.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
7:36 pm
The patient Frenchy is now 2-0.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
7:36 pm
Kotchman is not a 4-spot hitter. Put someone else there please. Put Ross there or something.
Doc Holiday
April 24th, 2009
7:36 pm
brett myers 40 pitches after 1 inning.
Treehouse
April 24th, 2009
7:37 pm
Good eye, Frenchy!
abwright
April 24th, 2009
7:37 pm
Frenchy walks. There goes the perfect game for Volquez.
Smyrna Jim
April 24th, 2009
7:37 pm
Vazquez is clearly the worst pitcher in the history of major league baseball (despite the K’s) – I’m sure we won’t score for the next week – and even if we do, the bullpen will give up 1,234,567 runs over the course of the week (and don’t get me started on Ed Norton and Pam Anderson). On top of that, Bobby will change every pitcher incorrectly (with McDowell’s input), and Snitker will wave in too many people (or hold up too many people). And Frenchy will never walk again. But I still like Yvonne Strahovski (sorry for a positive comment). Okay, I’ve gotten that out of my system – just trying to fit in here.
Couch Tater
April 24th, 2009
7:37 pm
David in N.Y.
Since your in enemy territory.
http://freebaseballradio.com/Atlanta.html
abwright
April 24th, 2009
7:38 pm
Kotchman took hittable switches and then swung at benders out of the zone. Volquez is wild.
Diaz held up on the first pitch (way out of the zone). Takes the bender for ball 2.
Hope the guys are paying attention.
Treehouse
April 24th, 2009
7:38 pm
Diaz walk please!
Doc Holiday
April 24th, 2009
7:39 pm
a walk for _JF
Nice to see that Casey and JF have steadily turned it around.
Tomas
April 24th, 2009
7:39 pm
Volquez is a great pitcher. They need to work the count today, and try to get Volquez out by the 6th inning.
David from NY
April 24th, 2009
7:39 pm
Couch Tater,
Thanks. I’m making my first trip to Atlanta in May for the Blue Jays series.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
7:39 pm
Ball 4 to Diaz. First and second with one out.
Schafer needs to look for a first pitch cookie.
Mixxo
April 24th, 2009
7:40 pm
Showing some patience. Might be a plan.
Treehouse
April 24th, 2009
7:40 pm
Shafer walk please.
Tom O'Hawke
April 24th, 2009
7:40 pm
Smyrna Jim … What’s your rum count, so far?
abwright
April 24th, 2009
7:41 pm
Volquez continues to hunt for the strike zone. 2-0 on Schafer. Neither pitch was close.
First pitching visit to the mound of the night. Message…throw strikes! They figured out how to take a pitch.
Tomas
April 24th, 2009
7:41 pm
Two very aggresive hitters had walks. Good to see.
McFann =Ô=
April 24th, 2009
7:41 pm
abwright–
Yeah…yeah, I know…
Treehouse
April 24th, 2009
7:42 pm
SHAFER! He was walking you!
Smyrna Jim
April 24th, 2009
7:42 pm
Tom O – vodka tonight, but not that many (hey, I’m a math major – I can’t handle simple counting).
abwright
April 24th, 2009
7:42 pm
Marginal strike at the knees to S. 2-1.
Schafer dribbles to first. Good as a bunt. Frenchy at third, Diaz at second. Ross at the plate with 1st base open and the pitcher on deck. 2 outs.
Treehouse
April 24th, 2009
7:42 pm
Time for Ross to make up for that error!
Edinson Volquez must have goo on his hands!
April 24th, 2009
7:43 pm
The balls are going everywhere.
MariettaDerek
April 24th, 2009
7:44 pm
That inning was definitely NOT double pits to chesty.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
7:44 pm
Ross strikes out swinging on a ball way out of the strike zone. Vazquez will lead off the third.
David Ross (so far) is DPTC.
Blaine Boyer throws as hard as Edinson Volquez
April 24th, 2009
7:45 pm
but with different results.
Mitchell
April 24th, 2009
7:46 pm
Yaaay!!!
Go Braves. Way to set up Vasquez to lead off the 3rd inning.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
7:46 pm
Wow…its about time to start worrying about this lineup! And what is the ump doing not calling strikes down the middle…and then all the sudden calling strikes on the corners when Ross was up?
Prunella
April 24th, 2009
7:47 pm
That inning was definitely NOT bees to the knees.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
7:48 pm
Vazquez strikes out Encarnacion swinging. He’s struck out the first four batters, and he looks really sharp.
Tom O'Hawke
April 24th, 2009
7:49 pm
Smyrna Jim …. When either one of us starts refreshing with the ’submit comment’ tab, then it’s enough vodka for you or enough beer for me.
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
7:49 pm
Even though I was one of Frenchy’s biggest haters last season (and not really hate, just you know, frustrated baseball fan hate) and even though it’s early, I’m officially sold. He’s a different guy up there this season. As much as he got under my skin with his attitude about going to MS last season I’m glad to see he’s worked whatever it was out.
lexbrave
April 24th, 2009
7:50 pm
this rotation just does not deserve to have to have this offense trying to win games for them.
lexbrave
April 24th, 2009
7:50 pm
and defense for that matter
abwright
April 24th, 2009
7:50 pm
Double off the wall by Hernandez. Vazquez threw some great pitches to him, but he made a mistake on the 2-2 pitch with a poor breaking pitch.
Chuck
April 24th, 2009
7:51 pm
Yvonne Strahovski can bat leadoff in my lineup. Much better that that Kelly guy…
abwright
April 24th, 2009
7:52 pm
Line drive to Yunel. Almost a double play, but Hernandez dove back to second before KJ could bet over. 2 outs, man on second, Volquez at the plate. Vazquez is not going to get 27 strike outs tonight.
a643dp
April 24th, 2009
7:53 pm
Anybody ever had sweet tea vodka best thing since sids slide. Its Vodka fused from tea. I live in Tampa and they have it at ABC liquors down here. Mix it with a splash of water or unsweet tea and you cant taste the vodka at all.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
7:53 pm
5 K’s for Vazquez
JasonInFL (Formerly ME)
April 24th, 2009
7:53 pm
This Braves lineup sort of reminds me of the ‘27 Yanks…
bravos2249
April 24th, 2009
7:54 pm
lexbrave
I’m saying…I believe come July…even if we aren’t in it we trade for some one with pop…a LF or something.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
7:55 pm
If this offense keeps it up I’m going to have to try that Vodka-Tea…and I dont drink.
GamecockBrave
April 24th, 2009
7:55 pm
here is a link if you want to listen to the game online free.
http://wcos1400.com/main.html
abwright
April 24th, 2009
7:55 pm
Strikes out Volquez looking with a seed on the outside corner of the plate at (or slightly below) the knees. Vazquez has made a couple of mistakes, but he really looks sharp. If the Braves could get him a couple of runs, he should be good to go.
Alas, he’s probably going to have to do it himself. Maybe if he gets on base, KJ and Yunel can bunt him to 2nd and third for Chipper.
1995
April 24th, 2009
7:55 pm
QUESTIONS……..
1. How long will the Braves stick with TP as batting coach with our bats dead?
2. Anyone know what the TV ratings are for Braves games this year? Im not sure how much more I can take as its REALLY boring watching this team on TV.
I give Wren credit for the starting pitchers we have now but its like making a cake and leaving out other important ingredients. We need a bat and a solid arm in the bullpen. Wren? You working on these?
Smyrna Jim
April 24th, 2009
7:56 pm
Tom O – in that case, I’m good so far. I guess I can kkep going. On a Braves’ related note, I hope Bobby doesn’t pull Javy if he’s still going for going for 20 K’s 90 minutes from now.
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
7:56 pm
Metallica….hmmmmmm I’m gonna guess…..Krotchy?
Tomas
April 24th, 2009
7:56 pm
Hey ease up on the Brave hitters, it’s not their fault they’re being overmatched by a great pitcher.
C's
April 24th, 2009
7:57 pm
Vodka Tea??? I am intrigued.
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
7:57 pm
Did Boog forget he’s already talked about this? :
bravesfan54
April 24th, 2009
7:57 pm
dylan your quote upon signing GA: “Garret Anderson=Raul Mondesi all over again.” requires balance and analysis.
Raul Mondesi in 2005 was purchased for $1M as 13 yr veteran, 34 yoa OF, coming off two years of serious decline production. Was he a good investment looking forward? maybe, given that he two years earlier his numbers were decent, not great : 162 AB, with numbers of .302, .372, .512 -albeit without power or run production. His career numbers were .273 .331 .485 Was he worth a million dollars looking BACK – noooooo!
Garret Anderson was a $2.5M investment as a 15yr vet, 35 yoa, whose previous year saw him playing in 145 games and 557 AB. Last year he hit 15HR with 84 RBI and numbers of .293 .325 .433. Did this production justify a $2.5M signing, ya betcha in my view. Looking back can’t occur now, but I will grant you the early indications are not favorable.
Bloggers talk about his speed – well, he isn’t “deceptively slow” – look at his 15 year career, which shows he successfully steals two-thirds of the time, but, alas, only an average of three a year. We didn’t purchase the dude for speed. So he ain’t deceptively slow.
He has averaged 18 HR and 86 rbi over 15 years, with as I’ve mentioned a career .293 average.
Some say he came in out of shape. Maybe so, sounds subjective to me.
On the other hand, he’s averaged playing in 143 games a year, omitting his rookie season of 13 games. Not a slacker there.
I hate to sound like the old geezer that I am: I respect this guys numbers, and dissing him by comparing him to Raul Mondesi (using only Raul’s final .211 4HR, 17rbi year) is disingenuous. In fact, since I’m on the subject, I will raise my glass of Merlot to both of these players, both of whom clearly deserved to wear the uniform I so long have found iconic.
No mas.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
7:57 pm
It’s sad when fans know what the team needs…and management doesnt. Find one arm for the bullpen and a right handed power bat for left field. This isnt that hard is it? Package Prado, Kj, Esco, or Infante with a young pitcher.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
7:58 pm
Vazquez has a long at bat, but grounds out the third.
Smyrna Jim
April 24th, 2009
7:58 pm
By the way, kkep is an accepted alternate spelling for keep in the new Unabridged Not Quite Enough Vodka Dictionary.
David O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
7:59 pm
Guess what Chipper’s wife got him for his birthday?
A small laptop to carry with him on road trips.
I told him once the bloggers learned that, he’d have no excuse not to come on the Braves/MIB forum.
He smiled and said, “I didn’t say I was going to actually use it.” But seriously, he said Sharon, his wife, was getting it ready for him. I’m guessing he’ll need a tutorial of sorts.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
7:59 pm
KJ strikes out swinging (again).
Bobby's breath
April 24th, 2009
8:00 pm
George Dickel is what gives me my special aroma. That and last night’s chili between my teeth.
MariettaDerek
April 24th, 2009
8:00 pm
Finally! This team has a heartbeat!
abwright
April 24th, 2009
8:00 pm
Yunel gets hit by a pitch. He’s going out to the mound. Benches have cleared.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
8:01 pm
Thataboy Esco. Get the team some energy…it needs something!
N Nine
April 24th, 2009
8:01 pm
Fight fight Don’t F(&&K with Yunel!!!!
a643dp
April 24th, 2009
8:01 pm
Maybe this is just what the Dr.ordered to get this team some life thank you cincy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Doc Holiday
April 24th, 2009
8:01 pm
Excellent………..our slugger leadoff hitter has 2 K……..give me 5 bobby!!!!!!!
Tom O'Hawke
April 24th, 2009
8:01 pm
“This Braves lineup sort of reminds me of the ‘27 Yanks…” — JasoninFL
I think I know this one. Because they’re all dead?
David O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
8:01 pm
The fiery Escobar. Taking no prisoners.
Hey, it did look like he was throwing at him, particularly since some pitchers have in the past.
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
8:01 pm
Is he still hurting on that side from the jump strain?
Treehouse
April 24th, 2009
8:02 pm
Yunel response there was embarrassing. He looked so immature!
abwright
April 24th, 2009
8:02 pm
Boy, Yunel was jawing at Volquez, pointing to him. Clearly po-ed. Umps are still hanging around with Yunel at first, hoping he doesnt’ start it up again.
David O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
8:03 pm
No one tossed from the fray, warnings issued to both dugouts.
Some of you asked me back when i wrote that spring-training story about Escobar, to cite specific instances when his temper or whatever got the best of him.
Please file this away.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
8:03 pm
Warning to both benches.
bob
April 24th, 2009
8:03 pm
wrong anderson sent to detroit….josh has 4 stolen bases…braves team has 3…bobby really wanted garrett, and dumped josh…bobby apparently hates speed in the lineup and wants someone with experience (on the dl)…who is making the decisions and how is this making any sense?
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
8:04 pm
Oh yay I love Chipper’s bday present! Good job, wifey. But yeah…you can’t teach an old dog new tricks. My boss has had a laptop for years and I still have to help him check his email.
JasonInFL (Formerly ME)
April 24th, 2009
8:04 pm
You got it O’Hawke!
Mitchell
April 24th, 2009
8:04 pm
Yunel needs to get his charge the mound on.
He did the same thing against Ted Lillies of the Field last year but didn’t charge the mound. And that guy deserved to be dropped cause he’s a little bitch.
Yunel, bring it next time! Come on!!!
Let’s go Chip, hit that s*** outta here.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
8:05 pm
Chipper dribbles to second. Some much for the fire.
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
8:05 pm
Hoss’s birthday isn’t going anything like last years so far…
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
8:05 pm
Someone has to do something to get this team pumped up…because their offense sucks and has sucked for a lot of games now. Chipper hitting a lot of weak ground balls…must still be hurt…this is going to be rough with no Chipper and McCann. Wow.
K Johnson
April 24th, 2009
8:05 pm
I leadoff
Prunella
April 24th, 2009
8:05 pm
I hear that Chipper Jones is a batter who usually gets lots of rubies. is that a good thing? Are they real rubies, or fake ones like my second husband, Neil, bought for me? Does Chipper Jones get to keep the rubies and give them to his dear wife?
Treehouse
April 24th, 2009
8:06 pm
If Yunel doesn’t react the way he does, no warnings issued, and the Braves can respond later by plunking one of the Reds. Hopefully right on the elbow.
bravos2249
April 24th, 2009
8:06 pm
DOB
There was a game against the Reds last year were they threatened to hit Blanco cause he broke up Volquez’s no hitter and since he did indeed hit Escobar and looked like he threw at him….in the same spot he’s had problems with recently….I’d be po’d too
Mitchell
April 24th, 2009
8:06 pm
Chipper what the f$#%!?!?!?!
Damn it Chipper, you suck. That’s right, I said it. I said what needed to be said.
Oh, come on people. I kid. He’s Johnsoning it up around here though.
Tom O'Hawke
April 24th, 2009
8:07 pm
Smyrna Jim … LOL@7:58
bravos2249
April 24th, 2009
8:07 pm
by the way it was like the 5th inning when Blanco bunted for a base hit so threatening to hit him was stupid
Chuck James was Solid until the 6th!!!
April 24th, 2009
8:08 pm
It’s so great when your best offensive player on the team is blind and your second best player is playing hurt and is limited to hitting choppers and dribblers to the pitcher and 2nd base. That is amazing!
C's
April 24th, 2009
8:08 pm
Outside of the first two games of the season Chipper has 1 XBH. That is not good.
(NOTE: I am not bashing him. Just saying I think its obvious he is still hurting.)
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
8:08 pm
The warning is stupid…so the Braves can’t hit someone…but the Reds can? How the F does that make sense? They should just warn the Reds…not the Braves…then warn the Braves after they hit someone
McFann Ô
April 24th, 2009
8:08 pm
Run Heap Run–
That’s for sure. Think it’s impossible to have a repeat now.
Thanks for the piece on McCann, Chief.
northbeach Scott
April 24th, 2009
8:09 pm
I want to see Volquez drilled before Vazquez finishes his day. Bush to nail Esco there. Make ‘em pay Chipper. Oh well.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
8:09 pm
Tavarez hits a grounder to third. Chipper to Kotch. 1 out.
bravesfan54
April 24th, 2009
8:09 pm
Postscript: GA averaged less than 3 errors per year and a .989 FA for his career. Yes, FW shoulda known he’d miss 2 in one game of his first year here! FW shoulda known that this guy, who averaged playing in 143 games a year for 15 years, was a “slacker” not a “gamer”!
I will not show hate for the GA nor FW for signing him. He may have nuthin’ left, but I would caution some patience.
Acorn
April 24th, 2009
8:09 pm
Wow, I really hope Kelly Johnson is traded and does well somewhere else. Somewhere with intelligent fans that can appreciate the kid.
Mitchell
April 24th, 2009
8:10 pm
They’re talkin’ about you DOB!
Yay!
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
8:10 pm
Ah I almost guessed Norton.
Kurdt Kobain
April 24th, 2009
8:10 pm
DOB gets name dropped on TV
Todd
April 24th, 2009
8:10 pm
DOB getting love on TV!
abwright
April 24th, 2009
8:10 pm
Dribbler to second by Dickerson. KJ to Kotch, 2 out.
FaninFaytown
April 24th, 2009
8:11 pm
BOB, Josh Anderson and Garret Anderson have nothing to do with one another. Maybe both of ur points have a little validity, but before you try to equate one to the other know the background.
Nestor Shylock
April 24th, 2009
8:11 pm
Other than Votto the batting averages for Cincinnatti are not very high. So how can they be 9 and 6?
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
8:11 pm
DOB
Ever see a band called “RLA” in Atlanta. They played at the Roxy once and played regularly at Smith’s Old Bar in mid-town. If you’ve seen them, would love to hear your thoughts on them.
Great play by KJ!
McFann Ô
April 24th, 2009
8:11 pm
bravos2249–
I remember that…I didn’t see it, but I remember that.
It was Hairston who threatened that they would hit Blanco. Then McCann gave Hairston a little what-for when Jerry came up to bat…Mac even stood in his way when Hairston started to run to first after bunting.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
8:12 pm
Joe and Boog have begun talking about Facebook and twittering.
KJ makes a great play on a sharp grounder to his right. The third has bitten the dust. Reds, 1-0.
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
8:12 pm
“Pants up, pants down, nice play either way.”
Yes, I’m 12.
Mitchell
April 24th, 2009
8:12 pm
Chipper better get on the old blog so I can give him a piece of my mind…
Kelly Johnson makes a stellar defensive play. Monkeys are about to start flying out of my butt.
Hilarious right?
a643dp
April 24th, 2009
8:12 pm
lets see how this lineup fairs with kotch leading off?
Mixxo
April 24th, 2009
8:12 pm
Esco’s a Scorpio …..like me. We don’t take any s@&t!
*hums Petty’s “Won’t Back Down”…..*
bravos2249
April 24th, 2009
8:13 pm
McFann
that’s what I thought they were talking about…that’s the only thing from 2008 I remember happening
Jukeandjive
April 24th, 2009
8:14 pm
What is boog and joe’s facebook page?
Necromancer
April 24th, 2009
8:14 pm
Chipper better not play too much on that laptop, he might hurt his finger!
1995
April 24th, 2009
8:15 pm
Is Francisco Cabrera available to hit?
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
8:15 pm
Mitchell….”Kelly Johnson makes a stellar defensive play. Monkeys are about to start flying out of my butt.”
I’m LMAO!
C's
April 24th, 2009
8:15 pm
So who wants to bet one of their guys gets a pitch between the numbers in the 1st inning tomorrow?
bravos2249
April 24th, 2009
8:15 pm
come on let’s get a HIT!
Choppinmama
April 24th, 2009
8:16 pm
DOB: Boog and Joe just dropped your name and passed along your recommendation of Manchester Orchestra. Of course, “the vaunted” was understood……..
abwright
April 24th, 2009
8:16 pm
Kotchman draws a walk on a checked swing. First lead off man on for the Braves.
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
8:16 pm
It’s a group for them someone made, not their actual page. I don’t have the link handy but search “Joe and Boog” on FB and it’s the first result.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
8:16 pm
Frenchy “bunts” Kotch to second on a weak grounder to SS.
David O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
8:17 pm
Alright, I pulled Diaz’s spot in the order (7 card) in the no-hit pool in the pressbox after third inning. So pull for me here, folks. Need a hit to rake in the dough (OK, so it was a $1 per person pool)
abwright
April 24th, 2009
8:17 pm
Need that double from Diaz to score the Kotch-man.
Mitchell
April 24th, 2009
8:18 pm
Matt! Dumbass.
Mitchell
April 24th, 2009
8:18 pm
Wow! Did he seriously lay off that one?
Wow.
David O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
8:18 pm
No, scratch that. I have Schafer, because the lineup changed after Mac was scratched. I was thinking of the old lineup. Now I need Schafer to get the hit to break up the no-no.
Mitchell
April 24th, 2009
8:19 pm
And again.
I like it. No sarcasm here.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
8:19 pm
I just realized that we are into the fourth and Volquez is no-hitting the Bravos. This guy isn’t that good tonight.
Prunella
April 24th, 2009
8:19 pm
That Casey Kotchman seems like a very nice young man. I would like to knit him a sweater. What size do you think he is? Do you think he would like it if I used lime green wool? That’s all I have right now. If he were a pitcher he would be an ace. Acey Casey! That’s probably what the sportswriters would call him. They like to rhyme, you know.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
8:19 pm
Matty strikes out swinging.
Stephen
April 24th, 2009
8:20 pm
This offense is so abysmal….
Mitchell
April 24th, 2009
8:20 pm
Oh Matt, how could you do that to me?
I was bragging on you.
Can anybody get that run home? Can we pinch run for Kotch?
Mixxo
April 24th, 2009
8:21 pm
C’mon blue!!!
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
8:21 pm
I think Volquez is what some would call effectively wild tonight. He doesn’t really know where his pitches are going, so the hitters really have no idea.
Mitchell
April 24th, 2009
8:22 pm
There you go Schafer.
Any chance of making contact on this one?
Brandon Jones
April 24th, 2009
8:22 pm
Bobby i’ll be right over here if you need me, just so ya know i’ll be right over here if ya need me. Thanks
Mixxo
April 24th, 2009
8:23 pm
Good eye Logan.
Moby Grape
April 24th, 2009
8:23 pm
I told him once the bloggers learned that, he’d have no excuse not to come on the Braves/MIB forum.
Oh yeah, that would be great. let’s have him pop in right after a loss. I’m sure he’d be so impressed.
Mitchell
April 24th, 2009
8:23 pm
Thatta baby Schafer!
Can’t believe I just said that.
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
8:24 pm
At least we are being patient and running the pitch count up on Vasquez. Let’s get him out of there by the 6th and do some damage to the bp.
Choppinmama
April 24th, 2009
8:24 pm
DOB: Here’s a chance for some real investigative sports journalism. Don’t you want one of those Wurlitzers with a P- and no -u (no offense, Lew) sitting on your office shelf too?
What’s the REAL beef between Escobar and Volquez? How far back does it go…childhood rivalry? Anything to do with the recent “We Are The World” World Series perhaps?
OK, there you go, a few avenues to explore. These 2 Gringos announcing the game have no clue.
Brady
April 24th, 2009
8:24 pm
Tom O’Hawke, BravesFan54, and Treehouse…I love the comments, I always enjoy a good sense of humor.
I have been a braves fan since I was 7 years old, growing up and living in Lubbock, Texas, all I had was TBS, but now that is gone, I am stuck with reading these blogs for my Braves fix… and their are three things that drive me crazy about them: First, the wishful trades that appear on all of these; Second, people writing what they wish the lineups would be, or not be, and thinking people actually care to read them…; and third and probably the most irritating, are the amount of bandwagon fans you can find on these blogs…my goodness, their are 162 games in a baseball season, that’s a huge roller-coaster of a season…have patience, please!
So now you might see why I scroll down to DOB’s and Carroll’s comments…
abwright
April 24th, 2009
8:24 pm
Schafer walks. No money for DOB. Ross has another chancet to atone.
A double scores both Kotchman and Schafer.
A single…not so much.
David O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
8:24 pm
Schafer, a walk’s not as good as a hit in this instance — because it doesn’t win the no-hit pool for me. And that’s what counts, right? Right?
Choppinmama, did they say that? That’s pretty funny.
Time Traveller
April 24th, 2009
8:24 pm
In the future, humans will be even less able to throw baseballs (no evolutionary advantage). Baseball games will take even longer to play.
Moby Grape
April 24th, 2009
8:25 pm
Hoss’s birthday isn’t going anything like last years so far —RUN HEAP
I’m betting Chipper’s entire year won’t be much like last season, or the one before that either. He is due to come back down.
Tomas
April 24th, 2009
8:25 pm
Schafer has been having some pretty good at bats lately.
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
8:26 pm
Waling Ross intentionally to get to JV
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
8:26 pm
Oh yay the pitcher is up!
abwright
April 24th, 2009
8:26 pm
Ross walks to load the bases. Vazquez comes to the plate.
a643dp
April 24th, 2009
8:27 pm
Javier needs to take pitches!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
David O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
8:27 pm
Well, they’re sure running up Volquez’s pitch count now — up to 71 pitches, and he doesn’t have 11 outs yet.
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
8:27 pm
But wouldn’t it be hilarious if the hit he is going to give up is to the pitcher?
Mitchell
April 24th, 2009
8:27 pm
Our pitchers are seriously going to have to singlehandedly win every game from now on.
How about an hour of batting practice just for the starters?
braint
April 24th, 2009
8:27 pm
5 walks in this ballpark with 0 runs? That’s not very encouraging.
Mitchell
April 24th, 2009
8:27 pm
I have faith in you Javy.
You can do it.
Choppinmama
April 24th, 2009
8:28 pm
Bases loaded, 2 outs………..isn’t Yunel up to bat? THAT would be interesting to say the least.
Stephen
April 24th, 2009
8:28 pm
VAZQUEZ WITH THE GRAND SLAM
NCBravesFan
April 24th, 2009
8:28 pm
Since April 14, when the Braves fell into their funk, they’ve scored in just 12 innings covering nine full games.
ArkyTech
April 24th, 2009
8:28 pm
KJ still in the lineup? Prado and Omar still riding the pine?
In the words of Nancy Kerrigan….”WHYYYYYY??? WHY????????????!!!!!!!!”
TnBrian
April 24th, 2009
8:28 pm
Krusty the Clown might not be calling Yunel a pu*!* once he gotta hold of em!
K Johnson
April 24th, 2009
8:28 pm
HOw bad do you think volquez smells?
abwright
April 24th, 2009
8:28 pm
Volquez nearly throws the ball away. Good play by the catcher. 2-1 to Vazquez.
David O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
8:28 pm
Even A.J. Burnett’s nine-walk, one-hit-batsman no-hitter didn’t have this many pitches this early. At least I don’t remember it having quite this many.
Mitchell
April 24th, 2009
8:28 pm
Make it happen Javy!
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
8:28 pm
Wow, he’s should groove on here
abwright
April 24th, 2009
8:28 pm
3-1 to Vazquez. No where close to the plate on that last one. V’s gotta take two.
Smyrna Jim
April 24th, 2009
8:29 pm
JAVY!!!! Great eye (wink, wink)!
David O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
8:29 pm
We need Escobar to lay down a bunt to break up the no-no — that’d get this roiling, don’t you think?
keylargo
April 24th, 2009
8:29 pm
win with 0 hits?
Stephen
April 24th, 2009
8:29 pm
AHAHAHAHAHAHA
Treehouse
April 24th, 2009
8:29 pm
WALKED in a run! Sadly, that’s the only way we can score….
a643dp
April 24th, 2009
8:29 pm
we got lucky that was a strike
TnBrian
April 24th, 2009
8:29 pm
Walked in a run!! THE PITCHER OF ALL GUYS… WOAH!
northbeach Scott
April 24th, 2009
8:29 pm
Sweet. FU Edinson, you douchebag.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
8:29 pm
Low! Braves score a run! Close pitch, but he’s been wild. Didn’t get the call.
keylargo
April 24th, 2009
8:29 pm
Come on KJ, get another walk!
David O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
8:30 pm
Braves’ last two runs over the past 21 innings have come on bases-loaded walks.
braint
April 24th, 2009
8:30 pm
oops, I posted too soon.
Mitchell
April 24th, 2009
8:30 pm
Yeah baby!!!!!!!!
That’s my dog.
Get a grip Endinson, you and your stupid name. Those aren’t even close. Lose the ‘tude.
northbeach Scott
April 24th, 2009
8:30 pm
Blast one KJ in this band box.
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
8:30 pm
I’m sure that wasn’t intentional! And we thought that the Braves were the only teams that did that sort of thing!
ArkyTech
April 24th, 2009
8:31 pm
Kelly hitting .138 vs righties.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
8:31 pm
Hey boys, thats how we score runs. it works, lol.
John Milton
April 24th, 2009
8:31 pm
They also serve who only stand and wait!
Interested Observer
April 24th, 2009
8:31 pm
Who knows maybe we can walk ourselves into the World Series!! Swinging hasn’t done any good.
N Nine
April 24th, 2009
8:31 pm
hey he still has a no no …
Edinson Volquez must have goo on his hands!
April 24th, 2009
8:32 pm
Like seriously!
Smyrna Jim
April 24th, 2009
8:32 pm
Why is KJ batting in this spot??? Oh, …never mind.
Mitchell
April 24th, 2009
8:32 pm
Bull… well, you know the rest.
keylargo
April 24th, 2009
8:32 pm
Come on Escobar. Keep that bat on your shoulder!!
TnBrian
April 24th, 2009
8:32 pm
Now, Yunel needs some patback, right?
Mixxo
April 24th, 2009
8:32 pm
Good eye KJ!
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
8:32 pm
Sweet!
Hey wasn’t it Jered Weaver last year that took a no-no into the 9th and then he walked in a run with an out or two and Scioscia took him out and whoever got the last out but they lost the game 1-0.
MariettaDerek
April 24th, 2009
8:32 pm
That a way, KJ! Now, Yunel Grand Slam! Get double pits to chesty with it!
Mitchell
April 24th, 2009
8:32 pm
Kelly! Way to not make an out.
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
8:32 pm
Revenge right here, Yunel. You can do it!
Stephen
April 24th, 2009
8:33 pm
Yunel should just randomly charge the mound with his bat, maybe he could actually hit something.
Steve from OH
April 24th, 2009
8:33 pm
Well, lots of good AB by the Braves so far, at least. Volquez’ stuff is electric…glad he can’t find the zone, because if he does tonight, no one will touch him.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
8:33 pm
I dunno what the ump is looking at…some of those pitchers are strikes…not sure which ones anymore…but…we’ll take it.
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
8:33 pm
Did someone send out the middle relief of the Braves and give them Vosquez’s jersey? This is umbelievable. No hits, two runs in and the lead!
Tom O'Hawke
April 24th, 2009
8:33 pm
Has a team ever won 10-1, while being no-hit?
ArkyTech
April 24th, 2009
8:33 pm
Kelly is a lot more productive when he doesn’t swing
Brandon
April 24th, 2009
8:34 pm
Hey I read the benches cleared earlier in the ball game…just got home. Can anyone fill me in?
Hey, runs are runs.
Mitchell
April 24th, 2009
8:34 pm
If Yunel hits a homerun here he better take his sweet time rounding the bases.
I’d settle for a single. Or a walk.
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
8:34 pm
How about…walk Yunie and let Chipper come up and get his birthday present. Or not.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
8:34 pm
%#@$#@$%#@$#@$#@ THIS OFFENSE SUCKS!!!!!!!!! @$#@!$!@$!@ PUT PRADO AND INFANTE IN!! GEEEEZZZ!
Runnin
April 24th, 2009
8:34 pm
IO, so you ARE a Braves fan?!?
Moby Grape
April 24th, 2009
8:35 pm
2 runs on no hits? Hey Dave you might still have a shot next time through the order.
Mitchell
April 24th, 2009
8:35 pm
Wow.
Interested Observer
April 24th, 2009
8:35 pm
Darn! Yunel swung at a pitch!
N Nine
April 24th, 2009
8:35 pm
Aflac trivia? Last time someone pitched a no hitter and lost?
David O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
8:35 pm
Volquez threw 40 pitches in that unsightly inning. Five walks, including four in a row with two outs.
TnBrian
April 24th, 2009
8:36 pm
Brandon, go back a couple of pages and it’ll be there, in detail. That’s what I did.
Tom O'Hawke
April 24th, 2009
8:36 pm
PSSSSSSSSSSHT …. don’t you just love the sound of that first one opening for the evening? eh, cabravesfan?
spotts
April 24th, 2009
8:36 pm
At least Volquez still has the no hitter going.
…except for Yunel
JasonInFL (Formerly ME)
April 24th, 2009
8:36 pm
someone…anyone…please…get…a…big…hit!
Mitchell
April 24th, 2009
8:36 pm
Not a chance Brandon.
You should have been there. I’ll never tell.
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
8:36 pm
Jered Weaver, N Nine?
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
8:36 pm
We could actually win this game with no hits. Vasquez is on tonight, so the Reds may not score again with our main bullpen guys rested and available!
a643dp
April 24th, 2009
8:37 pm
I think the braves bullpen gave the nationals and the reds pitchers a case of “ballsyndrom”
Chuck James was Solid until the 6th!!!
April 24th, 2009
8:37 pm
DOB “Braves’ last two runs over the past 21 innings have come on bases-loaded walks.”
PATHETIC!!! All they can do now is hope for walks to get runs scored?? Volquez not hitter through 4….
Chuck James was Solid until the 6th!!!
April 24th, 2009
8:37 pm
**no hitter
Chuck James was Solid until the 6th!!!
April 24th, 2009
8:38 pm
a643dp
Nah I think we gave Volquez elephantitis tonight dude!
Wil
April 24th, 2009
8:38 pm
Nine. from Wiki:
Unlike a perfect game, in which no batters reach base, in regular no-hitters batters can reach base in other ways, such as a walk, an error, or a hit batsman. Thus it is possible to lose a no-hitter. On April 23, 1964, Ken Johnson of the Houston Colt .45s became the only pitcher to lose a complete game no-hitter in nine innings when he was beaten 1-0 by Cincinnati. The winning run was scored by Pete Rose in the top of the ninth inning via an error, groundout, and another error.[10] In 1967, Steve Barber and Stu Miller of the Baltimore Orioles pitched a combined no-hitter, but lost 2-1 to the Detroit Tigers.[11]
Because the home team does not bat in the ninth inning when it is already leading, a visiting pitcher (or pitchers) may complete a full game without allowing a hit but not be credited with an official no-hitter because they pitched only 8 innings. This happened most recently on June 28, 2008, when Jered Weaver and José Arredondo of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim threw 8 no-hit innings against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium, but lost the game 1-0 and are not credited with a no-hitter. This is the first near no-hitter of this kind in which more than one pitcher was involved. Previously, Silver King (1890), Andy Hawkins (1990), and Matt Young (1992) pitched complete games without allowing a hit, but pitched only 8 innings as the losing pitcher from the visiting team, and thus are not credited with a no-hitter.[12][13]
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
8:39 pm
Oh No! No more walks Javy! I know you need to warm back up, but get it together quick!
braint
April 24th, 2009
8:39 pm
9 RBI for KJ — doesn’t that come out to over 90 RBI on the year?
Interested Observer
April 24th, 2009
8:39 pm
Runnin….Yes, I am a Braves fan…a frustrated one…who likes to see them win…and thinks they have the talent so that they SHOULD be.
cabravesfan
April 24th, 2009
8:39 pm
sooo…did the strike zone get bored and wonder off?
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
8:40 pm
The strike zone with this ump DOES NOT EXIST
cabravesfan
April 24th, 2009
8:40 pm
or wander even?
N Nine
April 24th, 2009
8:40 pm
Run Heap Run :
http://wiki.answers.com/Q/Has_there_ever_been_a_no_hitter_loss_in_baseball
PI Braves
April 24th, 2009
8:41 pm
Vazquez returning the favor..
spotts
April 24th, 2009
8:41 pm
Has a team ever won a game without getting a hit?
N Nine
April 24th, 2009
8:42 pm
Wil! you beat me to it!!
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
8:42 pm
Ump thinks its homerun derby…where you get as many pitches as you want to hit the ball.
McFann Ô
April 24th, 2009
8:42 pm
Bravos2294
Yeah…I was trying to find the replay of Hairston’s bunt, but I couldn’t find it. That was kinda funny, though–Mac standing in his way.
Ah, but I sure wish it wasn’t now that they got to play the Reds on the road. Only go up there once a year…
Oh well. Maybe they’ll meet again in the playoffs.
Wil
April 24th, 2009
8:43 pm
Spotts, the two paragraphs above are about your exact question. Pitchers who threw no hitters and lost, hence a team wining without a hit.
a643dp
April 24th, 2009
8:43 pm
Best no hitter of all time was doc ellis eight walks and a no hitter on LSD. Hey DOB were you there I think the dead did a post game concert after. Was ellis sitting on second base after the game watching the fireworks?
abwright
April 24th, 2009
8:43 pm
They’re talking about pitchers who threw no-hitters and lost. It’s only the 4th inning and Volquez has thrown about 200 pitches.
spotts
April 24th, 2009
8:44 pm
Thanks for saving me the reading
spotts
April 24th, 2009
8:44 pm
I don’t even think the Reds need their outfielders this game.
Wayne in Utah
April 24th, 2009
8:44 pm
Wha’t the word on McCann (sorry, I have been away for a couple of days)???
Thanks in advance.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
8:44 pm
Base hit. First and second. 2 outs.
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
8:46 pm
Javier is looking like a really good pickup for Wren. I know Bobby has loved him since he first came up with the Expos. He just dominated the Braves when he pitched for them. I’m really loving his poise on the mound. I’m thinking he just couldn’t handle the scrutiny of NY and the stupidity of Ozzie. This guy is the real deal when he’s playin for people who will trust him like Bobby does. That is why players love playing for Bobby. He covers their back and let’s them play ball and doesn’t overreact when a guy struggles through a rough patch. Some of you fellow bloggers wouldn’t have a team if you ran it the way you talk on this blog.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
8:46 pm
Phillips steals third. No throw by Ross. Good thing, too. Hoss wasn’t covering.
keylargo
April 24th, 2009
8:46 pm
Hey DOB – add this to your post about the last runs coming on bases loaded walks. If the 2 – 1 lead holds up, KJ has two game winning RBI’s in a row, both on bases loaded walks.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
8:46 pm
Base hit up the middle ties the game.
Stephen
April 24th, 2009
8:46 pm
Well, this games over, we can’t even get a hit.
Steve from OH
April 24th, 2009
8:46 pm
Hanson’s night over in Gwinnett…6 IP, 2 runs (1 earned) on 4 hits, 2 walks, and 6 K’s.
keylargo
April 24th, 2009
8:46 pm
Never mind.
spotts
April 24th, 2009
8:46 pm
Looks like we’ll need another bases loaded walk…this offense sure isn’t going to score a run.
NCBravesFan
April 24th, 2009
8:47 pm
Well, time for the Braves to bust out the walkin’ sticks again.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
8:47 pm
Vazquez sucking…leaving balls right over the middle of the plate this inning. Braves offense needs to come up big…it wont…see how long we stay tied.
Mitchell
April 24th, 2009
8:47 pm
Volquez has a no-hitter!?
How did I miss that?
Way to go Ross. Not like McCann would have thrown him out though.
This is how you lose baseball games.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
8:47 pm
Volquez is at the plate. Vazquez looks to be rushing a bit. 1-1.
JasonInFL (Formerly ME)
April 24th, 2009
8:47 pm
I may have to start drinking again if I am going to continue to follow this team!
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
8:48 pm
Why the hell do you not pitch around to get to the pitcher? 8th spot guys should never drive in runs.
bravos11
April 24th, 2009
8:48 pm
I was just wondering why Mccann is not playing?
Bobby Cox is a donk
April 24th, 2009
8:48 pm
Why didn’t Bobby Cox walk A. Gonzalez and pitch to the pitcher?
abwright
April 24th, 2009
8:48 pm
Strike two on the curve ball on the outside part of the plate. 1-2.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
8:49 pm
Strikes him out looking with a nice bender into the middle of the plate. 4th is in the books. Braves and Reds are tied 2-2.
Looks like Vazquez lost a little concentration with the lead in that inning. Hope he gets it back together before the next inning.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
8:49 pm
McCann has eye issues. No idea what the hell Bobby is doing not pitching around him. Already had a runner on third….and if they take out their start in the 4th hopefully you get to their pen. The guy is no hitting us and all. Terrible managing especially when our offense has been sucking.
spotts
April 24th, 2009
8:50 pm
bravos11 – McCann’s not playing because he’s still adjusting to his new contact lens. He took BP but didn’t feel comfortable (I guess).
I take back what I said about the Braves not being able to score a run. Any offense with Casey Kotchman as the cleanup hitter if formidable.
Wil
April 24th, 2009
8:50 pm
He didn’t pitch around him because originally there was a pinch hitter on deck for Volquez, when they scored they removed the pinch hitter and put Volquez in.
McFann Ô
April 24th, 2009
8:50 pm
Wayne–
He was scratched from the lineup due to discomfort in that eye. He took BP, but he was experiencing that discomfort, so they took him outta the game.
Mark Bowmen just posted a thing an hour ago that said “his status for the final two games of this weekend’s series against the Reds appears doubtful.”
He’s likely gonna undergo another “evaluation” in Atlanta within the next few days, least that’s what I hear. Might hafta have that surgery sooner.
FOOEY!!
Honk if you believe that Bobby Cox is a donk
April 24th, 2009
8:51 pm
HONK!
HONK!
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
8:51 pm
N Nine, thanks.
We’re getting a hit this inning anyway so it’s about to be a moot point.
N Nine
April 24th, 2009
8:51 pm
We desperately need that big power bat we talked about in November. Where is it? It’s a glaring need while Mac and Chip take turn sitting out. Where’s Rafael Belliard when you need him???
Wayne in Utah
April 24th, 2009
8:51 pm
Why would you want to walk the second worst hitter in the lineup to get to the worst hitter??? That would be the move of a team that has little confidence in their pitcher.
Granted, it might have helped this time, but walk Gonzalez???? Nah.
TNScott
April 24th, 2009
8:51 pm
Another great job of managing, Bobby. Let a upper .300 hitter against your starting pitcher drive in a run instead of .090 pitcher. Pitiful.
Wil
April 24th, 2009
8:52 pm
Again, the pitcher wasn’t on deck when that run scored. Why walk someone to get to a pinch hitter?
cabravesfan
April 24th, 2009
8:53 pm
I don’t have enough beer for this…
Honk if you believe that Bobby Cox is a donk
April 24th, 2009
8:53 pm
HONK!
abwright
April 24th, 2009
8:53 pm
The Mets and the gNats are in the 6th. Mets are leading 2-1 with Santana. gNats have 1st and 2nd with 1 out.
Kearns, however, is swinging through pitches.
Tom O'Hawke
April 24th, 2009
8:53 pm
Thanks Steve from OH …. It’s good to see Hanson get past 4 innings.
spotts
April 24th, 2009
8:54 pm
Okay hope I don’t get dogged if this has been answered before (”WHAT?!? You IDIOT!! We already answered that on page 3! …stupid.”)
but how long would it take for McCann to recover if he had the surgery again? All I’ve heard is that it takes longer the second time.
Bobby's nose
April 24th, 2009
8:54 pm
I pick the Reds to win this game 5-4. What’s your pick?
Smyrna Jim
April 24th, 2009
8:54 pm
JEFFREY!!!
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
8:54 pm
Told ya! Sorry, DOB.
Mixxo
April 24th, 2009
8:54 pm
Frenchie!!!!
David O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
8:54 pm
Francoeur ends it in spectacular fashion. HOME RUN with two out, on first pitch.
spotts
April 24th, 2009
8:54 pm
Bout time….I’ve been tired of Francoeur singling us to death.
cabravesfan
April 24th, 2009
8:54 pm
That’ll break up the no hitter
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
8:54 pm
Jeff!!!!Homer!!!No hitter over!!!!
MariettaDerek
April 24th, 2009
8:54 pm
Way to be Frenchy! Now that’s getting double pits to chesty with it!
Steve from OH
April 24th, 2009
8:54 pm
Another great job of managing, Bobby. Let a upper .300 hitter against your starting pitcher drive in a run instead of .090 pitcher. Pitiful.
Surely you jest? Or surely you are too lazy to look up stats? Alex Gonzalez is a career .247 hitter with a career .691 OPS to go with it. Furthermore, Gonzalez has never hit .300 in any of his 11 major league seasons.
Home run Frenchy!
TnBrian
April 24th, 2009
8:54 pm
Well Mac needs to be DL’d and have that lasik surgery or something. They could then bring up Blanco/Barton. That’s just my take on it.
Good job Jeff!
abwright
April 24th, 2009
8:54 pm
Kotchman grounds out.
Frenchy knocks one out to center field. There goes the no-hitter. Braves lead, 3-2.
N Nine
April 24th, 2009
8:55 pm
Run Heap Run Wow, you are correct!!! Now, whats my keno #’s and where is Rafael Belliard? Help me heap….
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
8:55 pm
Sacrebleu!
Wayne in Utah
April 24th, 2009
8:56 pm
McFann
They might have to DL Huey huh?
Steve from OH
April 24th, 2009
8:56 pm
If Mac is DL’ed Sammons will be coming up, NOT Barton or Blanco.
keylargo
April 24th, 2009
8:56 pm
Good call RunHeapRun!
Stephen
April 24th, 2009
8:56 pm
Nice swings there Matty.
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
8:56 pm
MattE looked like Frenchy’s 08 hitting instructor there…
a643dp
April 24th, 2009
8:56 pm
Diaz isnt even close.
kirkinga
April 24th, 2009
8:56 pm
Is it too early to declare Francouer back?
TNScott
April 24th, 2009
8:57 pm
Force the opposing manager make a move is all I’m saying. Frenchy bails out his manager.
Mixxo
April 24th, 2009
8:57 pm
What won’t Matty swing at???? Jeez!
cabravesfan
April 24th, 2009
8:57 pm
TnBrian- if they DL’d Mac they would bring up Sammons- can’t have only one catcher on the roster
spotts
April 24th, 2009
8:57 pm
Can someone let Yunel know how ridiculous those frosted hilights look?
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
8:57 pm
I think it’s time to bring in Infante to play LF tonight. Matty looks completely lost at the plate right now. He’s pulling off everything.
Tokyo Bravo
April 24th, 2009
8:57 pm
Woo hoo! Saturday is here and I can actually play along! Even planning to get up for the 2:00am start for the asfternoon game, as it’s on TV!!!! Who’s pitching Saturday’s game?
cabravesfan
April 24th, 2009
8:58 pm
Steve from OH-
sorry for the repeat…somehow missed your post
Wil
April 24th, 2009
8:58 pm
Why Infante? Time to bring B. Jones in and let him get some swings.
Somewhere in Normandy...
April 24th, 2009
8:58 pm
Where would the Braves be right now without Francoeur? Where?
TnBrian
April 24th, 2009
8:59 pm
Boy, Diaz has looked absolutely AWFUL at the plate more times than not so far this year. That hack at anything approach looks rediculous when he’s actually not doing what he did in ‘07 with that swing.
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
8:59 pm
by the way. another good sign on Frenchy. That homer was to center field, which means he isn’t trying to pull the ball. He is really strong, he just needs to trust his swing.
N Nine
April 24th, 2009
8:59 pm
How is Diaz a career .306 hitter? Shocker
David O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
8:59 pm
Wow, what a play by the birthday boy
Steve from OH
April 24th, 2009
8:59 pm
No sweat, cabravesfan. No need to apologize for that…
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
8:59 pm
Woo Hoo. Leather.
keylargo
April 24th, 2009
8:59 pm
Well Mac needs to be DL’d and have that lasik surgery or something. They could then bring up Blanco
TN Brian – Don’t you think Blanco would look funny in catcher’s gear?
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
9:00 pm
Chipper is the best in the majors at that bare handed play! Wow!
McFann Ô
April 24th, 2009
9:00 pm
Wayne–
I guess it’s a strong possibility.
Spotts but how long would it take for McCann to recover if he had the surgery again?
Don’t know, my friend.
Guess we can’t postpone these last two games in Great American Ballpark, huh? Dangit…I knew something like this would happen; I got too excited about this series.
Ripper
April 24th, 2009
9:00 pm
And the Braves continue to punish the opposition with their overwhelming offense!
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
9:00 pm
I’ve been playing the georgia lottery every week for at least 5 years and have never won more than a dollar so I doubt you’d want keno number guesses from me.
Steve from OH
April 24th, 2009
9:00 pm
Woo Hoo. Leather.
It’s great for jackets, too!
Wayne in Utah
April 24th, 2009
9:01 pm
TnBrian
Ya think we might need a second catcher if McCann is DL’d???
What was Jeffy thinking swinging at that first pitch?? Now he’ll be screwed up for the rest of the year!
a643dp
April 24th, 2009
9:01 pm
It very sad when the team is so bad we get a legitamit run and its like we went on a 5 game winning streak. When is BC gonna make a frakin move he hasnt done crap in 3 years and he just keeps the same ole broken lineup. If kelly doesnt get a hit in his next 6 Abs he will have a BA .196 WTF.
Tokyo Bravo
April 24th, 2009
9:02 pm
Pistons-Cavs is a tie game at the end of three….
TnBrian
April 24th, 2009
9:03 pm
cabravesfan/Steve, like I said, just keep Mac in the dugout just in case. Never know when he might be ready to play. Ya’ll are right, my bad.
keylargo
April 24th, 2009
9:05 pm
I had a second LASIK surgery and was back to my normal routine the next day. No problems at all and vision has been 100% for more than 8 years now.
LuisG
April 24th, 2009
9:05 pm
Yahoo’s “Game Channel” is about 5 or 6 minutes late tonight. I miss TBS!
TnBrian
April 24th, 2009
9:05 pm
Wayne/keylargo, got it!
David O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
9:05 pm
Oh, before I forget: Cox said prior to the game, when I asked him, that there was nothing new to report on Glavine. The two-week point is early next week, Tuesday I think. Two weeks since he was examined by Andrews and told to rest it for two weeks.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
9:05 pm
Votto gets a 2 out hit between Chipper and Yunel. Kind of a weak hit that just kept bounding out of Yunel’s reach.
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
9:05 pm
Joe Simpson….’That made Chipper limp” … comment on the foul ball Votto hit off his leg. Classicly Hilarious!:)
Tom O'Hawke
April 24th, 2009
9:06 pm
spotts ….. (”WHAT?!? You IDIOT!! We already answered that on page 3! …stupid.”)
I hear that the surgery isn’t that big of a deal. However, one of the bloggers, a few days ago, said they had the corrective surgery. Apparently, you can’t do anything strenuous, for a few weeks. That would put him, at least, on the 15 day DL.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
9:06 pm
Long foul ball from Phillips. 0-2.
Wil
April 24th, 2009
9:06 pm
Vazquez burning up the gun at 87 MPH.
Wayne in Utah
April 24th, 2009
9:06 pm
Steve
Good to see Hanson get past the 4th, but I hope he gets to the point of getting into the 7th and 8th.
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
9:07 pm
Nasty curve ball! Way to go Javy!
abwright
April 24th, 2009
9:07 pm
Phillips becomes the ninth strike-out. End of the 5th. Braves lead 3-2.
I'm not a robot without emotions-I'm not what you see
April 24th, 2009
9:07 pm
Domo arigato, Mr. Joe Votto,
Mata ah-oo hima de
Domo arigato, Mr. Joe Vootto,
Himitsu wo shiri tai
cabravesfan
April 24th, 2009
9:08 pm
Vazquez burning up the gun at 87 MPH.
Vazquez, 9 K’s through 5 innings…further proof it really doesn’t matter how hard you throw if you can locate
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
9:08 pm
Thats pretty darn funny…domo…domo..
I'm not a robot without emotions-I'm not what you see
April 24th, 2009
9:09 pm
Enter your comments here
David O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
9:09 pm
What a line for Volquez: five innings, three runs, all earned, one hit, seven walks, seven strikeouts. Threw 53 strikes in 97 pitches.
eltrompoBRAVESfan
April 24th, 2009
9:10 pm
I laughed out loud at work here when I saw we had walked in two of our runs before getting our first hit. What a game!
Wil
April 24th, 2009
9:11 pm
cabravesfan, who said anything to the contrary? Any team that had Maddux on it knows this.
Tomas
April 24th, 2009
9:11 pm
I don’t know how Vazquez strike out 200, and pitches 200 innings every year. he already has 100 pitches through 5 innings, and his due 3rd this inning. Personally I’d let him pitch one more inning.
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
9:12 pm
Let’s see if they let Jordy run here.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
9:12 pm
Schafer walks to lead off the inning. Ross to the plate. Will we get to see a steal attempt by Mr. S?
Wayne in Utah
April 24th, 2009
9:13 pm
I suspect the Braves are in a wait and see mode on McCann until they get him back to ATL on Monday.
While we can still win or lose this one, it is good to get their bullpen, though they have been pitching OK as of late. Let’s hope JV gets at least through the 6th, and 7th ideally.
Give him the collar
April 24th, 2009
9:13 pm
Braves need to pick up their chatter. They need to hound this guy, Masset.
N Nine
April 24th, 2009
9:13 pm
Schafer wants the leadoff position!
Not sure if I’m happy or sad about Volquez leaving.
cabravesfan
April 24th, 2009
9:14 pm
Wil-
wasn’t disagreeing with you at all…just pointing out the obvious
Tomas
April 24th, 2009
9:14 pm
Please Bobby steal a base.
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
9:14 pm
That was a total waste of an atbat by Ross. You have to at least take a couple and give Schafer a chance to steal a base!
Wil
April 24th, 2009
9:14 pm
Tomas, all he has to do is average 6 IP per start. Before this start he had 18 IP in 3 starts, or right on track for 200 IP.
Choppinmama
April 24th, 2009
9:14 pm
DOB: Yeah, they had asked who on the team was a Metallica fan? Turns out its Greg “The Head” Norton. Then they said, in a non-baseball context, they had heard that “our Braves writer”, or “the AJC Braves writer” really like a group from Atlanta called Manchester Orchestra.
That oughta put you in gratis MO CDs for their whole career!!
abwright
April 24th, 2009
9:15 pm
On McCann…
If he were to get a Lasik touch up, he’d have to go back to Atlanta, I believe. They would have to DL him so as to bring in a second catcher. He’s probably good to catch right now (even without the contact).
I suspect that they’re hoping the contact will do the trick once Mac has a chance to get comfortable. If not, when they get back to ATL, they can DL him retroactively to the last time he played.
a643dp
April 24th, 2009
9:15 pm
If we dont start hitting Big Albert gonna sweep us up next week by himself.
Wil
April 24th, 2009
9:16 pm
haha, that was a very funny bunt attempt at 1-1.
Mixxo
April 24th, 2009
9:17 pm
All that extra bunt bp in ST is paying off!
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
9:17 pm
They also called you an expert and a connoisseur of music.
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
9:17 pm
I’m betting Schafer will get a chance with Kelly at bat. Take a chance. If you make an out, then KJ leads off the next inning. If you make it, you’re in scorring position with two out and a contact hitter at the plate.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
9:17 pm
Schafer has thrown an anchor out at first. KJ at the plate. Let’s see the guy try to steal!
Tomas
April 24th, 2009
9:18 pm
Ok now it’s an ideal situation to steal.
jed
April 24th, 2009
9:18 pm
we should all be keeping an eye on garret anderson. i cant prove it, but i’m pretty suspicious of him, having watched his lame efforts this year. i’ll bet within a week of coming back from the DL, he “tweaks” either his quad or calf. i just dont think he wants to play, and, at this point, i’m hoping brandon jones tears it up when he gets to atlanta, and stays here.
Braves Rule
April 24th, 2009
9:18 pm
Girlie i mean Kelly Johnson will strike out swinging
N Nine
April 24th, 2009
9:19 pm
Nice way to be aggressive with a leadoff walk for the speedy Schafer.
Braves Rule
April 24th, 2009
9:19 pm
useless rascals
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
9:20 pm
Crap! Cant’ we even try to get a running game going?
DOB, has Bobby ever said he was against a running game? I remember when Grissom was with the Expos, he stole something around 70-80 bases a year. When he came to Atlanta, he went downto like 30-40 per year. Is this just a philosophy of Bobby’s or what?
The name game
April 24th, 2009
9:20 pm
Let’s do KELLY!
Kelly kelly bo-belly
Banana fana fo-felly
Me my so-smelly
KELLY!
abwright
April 24th, 2009
9:20 pm
Piffle. KJ grounds out to SS.
Schafer got to dive back into first a few times on pick-off attempts. Wasn’t that exciting.
braint
April 24th, 2009
9:21 pm
It’s ridiculous they didn’t have a steal attempt. Absolutely ridiculous.
Braves Rule
April 24th, 2009
9:21 pm
Bobby “Nose Digger” Cox
N Nine
April 24th, 2009
9:21 pm
Phillies offense still hungover from the parade.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
9:21 pm
Bobby is such a great manager. Let’s not steal with Schafer…a 1-run lead is good enough for us. If they had hit and run there…The SS might not have gotten to that hit by KJ. Please do something to get guys around and in.
ArkyTech
April 24th, 2009
9:21 pm
Can’t steal here. Gotta get KJ’s at bat out of way so we can start at the top of our lineup in the 7th.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
9:22 pm
Bruce the Moose hits a fly ball to Diaz. 1 out.
JJ
April 24th, 2009
9:22 pm
Anyone know what the deal with Kawakami’s translator is? I assume he was hired by the Braves, but does he literally follow KK around all the time or just for baseball activities? And what does he do the rest of the time? How did he get the job? I heard that he was a student from California? Is that right? Just wondering as they were talking about him a few minutes ago.
Dale Earnest, Jr.
April 24th, 2009
9:23 pm
“has Bobby ever said he was against a running game”
Sure has. He said if he wants to see guys racing ’round the infield he’ll go to nascar.
ArkyTech
April 24th, 2009
9:23 pm
Anyone else notice that when Kelly Johnson makes an out his average barely goes down?
abwright
April 24th, 2009
9:23 pm
Base hit by Encarnacion on the first hit. I guess Vazquez is setting up the double play.
V is nearly at 100 pitches. Hope he makes it through the sixth with the bottom of the Reds order.
jed
April 24th, 2009
9:23 pm
glad to see garret anderson on the DL. hope he stays there. he’s phoned it in since spring training, and of course he’ll ‘tweak’ something within a week of coming off the DL. big opportunity for brandon jones. hope he makes the most of it!
Anyone?
April 24th, 2009
9:24 pm
I asked this a couple of days ago and no one answered: what is the e-mail address for the SportSouth broadcasters?
joeandboog@gmail.com
or
boogandjoe@gmail.com
I really can’t remember. I e-mail both, and curiously neither bounced, so maybe they’re both good?
Wil
April 24th, 2009
9:24 pm
JJ, they were talking about him the other day, and they said he follows him around everywhere.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
9:24 pm
Vazquez needs to go 7. Hope he can pitch to 115-120 pitches.
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
9:25 pm
Great Dig Kotchy! Chipper was trying to get you killed!
Steve from OH
April 24th, 2009
9:25 pm
Kotchman is gonna save us a LOT of runs with his glove.
N Nine
April 24th, 2009
9:26 pm
Kotchi just gave chipper his B-day gift
Well Then
April 24th, 2009
9:26 pm
Lebron James pompass and arrogant attitude is quickly becoming annoying. He’s the second coming of Kevin Garnett…repeated chest poundings and profanity laced tirades on the court. Cant stand to watch that.
Wow…the Braves offense is awful…
abwright
April 24th, 2009
9:26 pm
Roller to third. Chipper makes a nice play. Throw goes into the runner, but Kotchman holds onto it and takes a bump from the runner.
Encarnacion to second. Gonzalez at the plate.
Fly ball to Schafer to end the inning.
Brandon
April 24th, 2009
9:27 pm
that was a loud out
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
9:27 pm
102 pitches…he’s probably done.
eltrompoBRAVESfan
April 24th, 2009
9:27 pm
I wonder if Kawakami goes to places like the Varsity…..try translating those cashiers to Kawa!
spotts
April 24th, 2009
9:28 pm
I wouldn’t consider Brian Jordan a “Braves legend”
spotts
April 24th, 2009
9:28 pm
Niekro, Spahn, Aaron….Jordan?
spotts
April 24th, 2009
9:29 pm
“Kotchman is gonna save us a LOT of runs with his glove.”
That’s no reason to bat him cleanup.
Steve from OH
April 24th, 2009
9:30 pm
Uhh…never said I approved of batting him cleanup, did I?
P.S.–Kotch also has a .379 OBP. Not chopped liver…
Yojii
April 24th, 2009
9:31 pm
Braves fan asking: “Anyone know what the deal with Kawakami’s translator is? I assume he was hired by the Braves, but does he literally follow KK around all the time or just for baseball activities? And what does he do the rest of the time? How did he get the job? I heard that he was a student from California? Is that right? Just wondering as they were talking about him a few minutes ago.”
Yojii being translator for Kenshin Kawakami. Not hired by Braves. Hired by Japanese government. True is following literal Kenshin Kawakami around all day to record true factual statements. Even sleep in same room. What doing rest of time? Reading manga and wishing home in Kyoto. Getting job? Majoring in English at Osaka City University. Wanting to be dentist but not having grades. Was student in California. Visiting uncle one summer and take community college class. Hoping for Kenshin Kawakami to have much success then Yojii writing authorized biography. Fortune will be assured!
abwright
April 24th, 2009
9:31 pm
Yunel takes a walk from Massett.
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
9:31 pm
Way to be smart, Yuni.
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
9:31 pm
I don’t know JJ 9:22, but wouldn’t that be a cool job?
A friend of mine majored in Russian in college and at the time my thinking was like Ha! WTF would someone major in a foreign language, much less Russian? What a waste of money! …. Except for he got an internship at Redstone Arsenal straight out of college and got a full time job as a Russian to English translator within 5 years for the Defense Department and now travels the world and earns 6 figures.
LuisG
April 24th, 2009
9:31 pm
Better work the count, Chipper! Make the pitcher make a mistake, or too…
Doc Holiday
April 24th, 2009
9:31 pm
Your Aflac trivia question for tonight:
Whos leading off and is 0 for 3 tonight for the braves and is nowhere near our top OBP hitter?
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
9:32 pm
Who is that guy and what did he do with Chipper Jones? Find out for us, will ya DOB?
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
9:32 pm
Not a very Chippy Birthday for Chipper. At least he got the runner over.
The_Superhoo
April 24th, 2009
9:32 pm
wow Yojii, way to be a complete racist.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
9:32 pm
Chipper hits another weak dribbler along the first base line. Yunel to second. Chipper stops halfway down to force the pitcher to tag him.
spotts
April 24th, 2009
9:33 pm
Steve – that was more a complaint on Bobby.
Steve from OH
April 24th, 2009
9:34 pm
Ah, ok.
spotts
April 24th, 2009
9:34 pm
Scratch that….it was more pointing out that we really have no one who’s a typical cleanup hitter.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
9:34 pm
Esco is at third…3 walks away from scoring….come on guys…good eyes good eyes
abwright
April 24th, 2009
9:34 pm
Kotchman hits a sharp grounder to second base. Yunel to third.
I guess they got him on and got him over. Frenchy needs to get him in.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
9:35 pm
Frenchy goes back to the dug-out to get new socks. He just swung out of the pair he was wearing.
Whiskey Pete
April 24th, 2009
9:35 pm
One more reference to Chipper’s birthday, and I’m going to turn against Joe Simpson.
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
9:36 pm
Anybody else see Frenchy taking a peek back at the catcher? He better watch, somebody will throw at this head for that, LOL.
Doc Holiday
April 24th, 2009
9:36 pm
JF has 33% more RBI than Teixeira………just saying……..and is hitting 100 points more than him
Najeh Davenpoop
April 24th, 2009
9:36 pm
Am I the only one who thinks the Braves have been on both ends of an awful lot of bases-loaded walks this year?
Tomas
April 24th, 2009
9:36 pm
Chipper hasn’t looked to good from the left side. He has hit a lot of little driblers like that. Maybe it’s his thumb that doesn’t let him make a good swing.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
9:37 pm
Full count on Frenchy. That last ball was waaaay outside and low, and the old Frenchy would have swung at it.
Frenchy walks on another low and away slider.
Diaz needs to get off the schnide.
DirtyYuni
April 24th, 2009
9:37 pm
1 hit. Seriously, 1 hit. We need opposing teams to load the bases and then walk guys in, otherwise we can’t score.
And Krotch is our cleanup hitter.
I miss Mac.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
9:37 pm
2 more walks to get Esco in.
!!!!
cabravesfan
April 24th, 2009
9:37 pm
Who is this guy that looks like Francoeur? 2 Walks in the same game??
spotts
April 24th, 2009
9:37 pm
The Braves are batting .048 tonight. That’s worse than Francoeur’s 2008 average MINUS Andruw’s 2008 average.
Not that it needed to be put in perspective or anything.
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
9:37 pm
Alert the media. A 2 walk game for Frenchy. Come on guys, we need a new story about Jeff’s new stance for this!
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
9:38 pm
My MLB Audio is glitchy. Sounded like they said Jeff took a walk after a first pitch homer last time up…
Wil
April 24th, 2009
9:38 pm
Man the Reds sure are issuing walks like it’s going out of style.
DirtyYuni
April 24th, 2009
9:38 pm
1 for 2 with a homer and two walks. Who are you and what have you done with Frenchy?
Choppinmama
April 24th, 2009
9:38 pm
Oh Superhoo…….don’t be so Supersensitive………not on THIS blog, anyway!
Mixxo
April 24th, 2009
9:38 pm
Swing hard Matty! ……….in case you hit it.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
9:38 pm
THATABOY MATTY! NOW WE CAN GET OFF YOUR BACK!!!
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
9:39 pm
Big Hit Matty! I take back what I said earlier about taking you out!
Mixxo
April 24th, 2009
9:39 pm
See, I toldja!
Doc Holiday
April 24th, 2009
9:39 pm
those who dont think JF is another hitter this year………are just not watching……..he is back………he wants to hack but you can see how he is holding back against his own will, LOL.
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
9:39 pm
They’re bragging on Carroll’s article on the radio.
sane jane
April 24th, 2009
9:39 pm
I heart Matty Dye-azz
Goldenglove002
April 24th, 2009
9:39 pm
4-2 Braves. RBI single from Diaz, aren’t we glad we got Anderson?
Smyrna Jim
April 24th, 2009
9:39 pm
I can’t wait for Garrett to come back…never mind.
spotts
April 24th, 2009
9:39 pm
And Bob’s your uncle…
abwright
April 24th, 2009
9:39 pm
Matty hits one right up the box. Yunel scores an insurance run.
Braves Rule
April 24th, 2009
9:39 pm
Atta boy Diaz !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
9:39 pm
That’s correct Bub, no need to adjust your set.
Whiskey Pete
April 24th, 2009
9:40 pm
I guess Escobar doesn’t merit retaliation. It reminds me of the spineless Tom Glavine.
Doc Holiday
April 24th, 2009
9:40 pm
this games is ours……..the back end of the bullpen will put it on the W column.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
9:40 pm
Has Brandon Jones gotten to the game yet? Also…if he comes to the dugout can he still play even if he is late…and they put him on the lineup card?
spotts
April 24th, 2009
9:41 pm
Is this the same Matt Diaz everyone was trashing earlier? You look at posts earlier in the game and you’d think Diaz had punched every blogger’s mother. Now it’s like he just came home from war.
It’s almost as if we’re all erratic on this blog.
Garret Anderson on blackberry from the DL
April 24th, 2009
9:41 pm
Pfffft. My grandma could’ve hit that.
Wil
April 24th, 2009
9:41 pm
Whiskey, both sides were warned, it would get whatever pitcher is pitching thrown out, and since Volquez isn’t in anymore, who are they going to retaliate against?
Steve from OH
April 24th, 2009
9:41 pm
Myrtle Beach won a close one, 1-0. Heyward/Freeman both 1-4. Cody Johnson 0-2 with 2BB and 0K. E. Osuna 6.1 scoreless, 4H, 4K, 0BB. Cory Gearrin finishes with 2 scoreless, 1K. Keep an eye on him, he may have a future in the Braves’ pen.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
9:42 pm
Philthies have the tying run at the plate in the top of the ninth with one out.
cabravesfan
April 24th, 2009
9:42 pm
Whiskey Pete-
so you would risk getting Vazquez tossed just to retaliate? Not a good idea…
Braves Rule
April 24th, 2009
9:42 pm
Garret Andershame’s best playing poistion is the DL
TnBrian
April 24th, 2009
9:42 pm
Who gives flippin fu*! if the Braves aren’t killing the ball tonight! They’re taking walks and Vazquez has really been one of the better pitchers in MLB so far this season, so take that all the negatears out there.
spotts
April 24th, 2009
9:42 pm
MF – don’t know if he’s gotten there yet, but since Ganderson was DLed, I think that makes Brandon eligible to play tonight.
Earlier this week a player just got traded to the Rangers, arrived at the park during the game, and had to pitch in someone else’s jersey because he didn’t have one yet.
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
9:43 pm
Garret, then can we trade you for her?
Vazquez ERA @ 2.63
April 24th, 2009
9:43 pm
Laughing at Ozzie
spotts
April 24th, 2009
9:43 pm
TN – I give a flippin F because if the Braves show any more ineptitude at the plate they’re gonna have to start using tees
bravos2249
April 24th, 2009
9:44 pm
brandon jones is in the dugout…when the camera panned to the dugout i saw him…that Edgar look-a-like
abwright
April 24th, 2009
9:44 pm
Schafer dribbles one to the first baseman. Inning over.
I tell you what, there’s a lotta dribbling going on in this game.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
9:44 pm
Matt Stairs is the scariest hitter of the bench!
Loaf Garret on a blackberry from the DL
April 24th, 2009
9:44 pm
Naw. She’s in the nursing home.
spotts
April 24th, 2009
9:45 pm
Wil – typically, they retaliate against the player of the same position on the opposing team. Which would be Alex Gonzalez.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
9:45 pm
Stairs singles for the Philthies. 3-1 Fish. Philthies have tying runs on base. 1 out.
Choppinmama
April 24th, 2009
9:45 pm
Someone asked earlier about BMac having to go on the DL if he had corrective surgery. You really can see just fine as soon as they take those eyelid retractors (shades of Marilyn Manson) off and sit you up.
But, definite DL though, no strain or exertion until that corneal flap heals. Two weeks sounds about right.
They don’t care about all the dirt and stuff that could get in there and cause who-knows-what to grow however.
spotts
April 24th, 2009
9:46 pm
If it’s only two weeks, then I say do it. There’s too much uncertainty, and McCann’s not producing when he is in the game.
sane jane
April 24th, 2009
9:47 pm
i really want to like Moylan but he’s making it difficult.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
9:47 pm
Phithies have bases loaded with one out. Down to the Fish, 3-1.
PI Braves
April 24th, 2009
9:47 pm
here we go… Go Moylan!
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
9:48 pm
Marlins trying to give the game to the Phillies
abwright
April 24th, 2009
9:48 pm
Serious dribbler out in front of the plate. Moylan fields and throws to first for the out.
Mixxo
April 24th, 2009
9:49 pm
We’re set up for a Moylan – Gonzo – Soriano finish.
Tom O'Hawke
April 24th, 2009
9:49 pm
almost, spotts, almost.
McFann Ô
April 24th, 2009
9:50 pm
DirtyYuni I miss Mac.
Me, too.
Choppinmama–
Thanks for the info. Yeah, I’m kinda with Spotts–if it’s only two weeks, they oughta do it. Can’t stand him hitting a buck-95. He needs this to be fixed.
Still wish he coulda played in this series, though.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
9:50 pm
Moylan strikes out Tavarez for the second out.
Wil
April 24th, 2009
9:51 pm
Nice K by Moylan.
Doc Holiday
April 24th, 2009
9:52 pm
Here it goes……….6 inning game………braves winning………game over….hope we see more of this more often.
DirtyYuni
April 24th, 2009
9:52 pm
Attaboy, Pedah. Feel so much better about this ‘pen w/ Moylan looking better and Soriano getting back to his ole self.
If those two are good, then Gonzo can be effectively wild and not make me wring my hands and rock back and forth a lot.
Whiskey Pete
April 24th, 2009
9:52 pm
Wil, you have to hit their best player. Right away. So he gets thrown out. Big deal. It’s great for morale, and if you think this team is headed for a WS, well you’re not the sharpest tool in the shed.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
9:53 pm
Fish just walk in a run. Philthies trail the Fish 3-2. Bases still loaded. 2 out.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
9:53 pm
Come on Marlins!!!
spotts
April 24th, 2009
9:53 pm
McFann – Still wish he coulda played in this series, though.
-Ross went 0-2 with 2 Ks and what was essentially a pass ball in the 1st.
-Kotchman’s 0-3 with a K batting cleanup
Yeah. McCann could’ve done that.
spotts
April 24th, 2009
9:54 pm
I could’ve done that
abwright
April 24th, 2009
9:54 pm
Victorino tried to put his foot into the way of a low fastball to get HBP.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
9:54 pm
Lindstrom sucking for the Fish
a643dp
April 24th, 2009
9:55 pm
victorino just went yard phillies lead the fish 6-3 in the 9th
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
9:55 pm
Brave killer Victoriano Grandslam
abwright
April 24th, 2009
9:55 pm
Victorino hits a granny. Philthies lead 6-3. Meltdown by the Fish bullpen.
Braves can pick up a game, perhaps.
Tom O'Hawke
April 24th, 2009
9:55 pm
Choppinmama …. that was you I was quoting to spotts, earlier. Thank you.
keylargo
April 24th, 2009
9:55 pm
McFann’s foe from Fillie hits a GS to put the Phils ahead.
braint
April 24th, 2009
9:55 pm
We should root for the Phillies considering the Marlins have a 4 G lead on us. We need to gain a game.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
9:56 pm
Dang it peter take your time…geez.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
9:56 pm
Moylan boots a roller. First and second, two out.
Wil
April 24th, 2009
9:56 pm
Whiskey, The Braves are not going to the WS because they didn’t retaliate against Volquez? Sorry, that makes no sense at all. In fact your whole statement is pretty ridiculous.
Hitting a player and getting your starter removed only a few innings into the game is unbelievably stupid, especially with our BP.
a643dp
April 24th, 2009
9:56 pm
MFin09 if you are a braves fan why would you want the fish to win?
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
9:57 pm
Moylan has soo much time to pick it up and flip it…hate when guys hurry themselves.
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
9:57 pm
Yeah why would you root for the Marlins now?
Mixxo
April 24th, 2009
9:57 pm
Peter, Peter! The wheels are comin’ off.
spotts
April 24th, 2009
9:57 pm
At least Yahoo’s keeping it up-to-the-minute. Matt Stairs is coming up with 2 on.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
9:58 pm
I hate the Phillies more than the Marlins…and Id rather the Phillies get buried in the standings.
PI Braves
April 24th, 2009
9:58 pm
C’mon Moylan… Not again.
Andy K.
April 24th, 2009
9:58 pm
YES! If we hold on, and the Phils do too, we gain a game, and are only 3 GB, in 2nd!
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
9:58 pm
You know that guy in the Miller Hi Life commercials banging on the window of the suite saying “Take him out! Take him out!”? I’m that guy right now..
semiballcoach
April 24th, 2009
9:58 pm
the reason moylan didn’t field the ball is he holds the fingers of the glove against his body in the stretch , which causes them to curl up
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
9:59 pm
Except I’m in my living room, not in a luxury suite.
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
9:59 pm
If Moylan walks this batter, I would bring in Soriano to get through this inning and the next. Then let Gonzalez pitch the ninth. Gonzalez is a little to wild to bring in here. He needs to come in with nobody on.
spotts
April 24th, 2009
9:59 pm
You know what would get me more pumped? Another one of those Columbus, GA commercials.
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
9:59 pm
Man, it’s gonna be painful if they blow this for Javy.
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
10:00 pm
Good job Peter. Good, tough pitch to get out of the inning!
PI Braves
April 24th, 2009
10:00 pm
Attaboy!
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
10:00 pm
Al. Co. Hol.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
10:01 pm
Medium fly ball to right center, Schafer makes the catch for the out.
Phew!
Braves have the bottom for the order to get out to finish this game. With some good pitching, they won’t have to face Votto or Phillips again.
Tokyo Bravo
April 24th, 2009
10:01 pm
JJ, the AJC had a nice article on Kawakami’s translator a while back. You can almost certainly googler the link. He was getting a degree in engineering or architecture or something, I think, but his real passion is baseball, and so when the job came open, he applied. Really good story.
And yes, everyone, please do continue to ignore Yoji. Fools like him make my job that much harder overseas. Dude makes MariettaDerek look like a comic genius.
spotts
April 24th, 2009
10:03 pm
Well, McFann, whenever Brian DOES come back, at least you won’t have to worry about Ross stealing his job.
Wayne in Utah
April 24th, 2009
10:04 pm
Kinda strange pullling for the Phillies. Who’s warming up in the pen?
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
10:04 pm
I’d really like to see Norton get on track here!
abwright
April 24th, 2009
10:04 pm
Norton’s up with one out and noone on. Maybe he can get it started.
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
10:04 pm
Ugh. Philly…
spotts
April 24th, 2009
10:05 pm
attaboy, Greg…you’ll get your 1st hit sooner or later.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
10:05 pm
Is there a word more pathetic than dribble? Whatever it is, Norton just did it to first.
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
10:05 pm
Grand slam. 6 – 3, Philths.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
10:05 pm
Can Norton please get a start at first or left so he can get going. Good hit KJ.
JasonInFL (Formerly ME)
April 24th, 2009
10:05 pm
Man, Zack Greinke is on some kind of roll!! Another 8 innings no earned runs and 9 K’s. He hasn’t let up an earned run now in 42 innings dating back to last year!
lagnamor
April 24th, 2009
10:05 pm
Braves pinch hits 2 for 23!
Wayne in Utah
April 24th, 2009
10:06 pm
Payback time Yunel
abwright
April 24th, 2009
10:06 pm
KJ with a solid single.
The firebrand comes to the plate.
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
10:07 pm
Utley follows the slam. 7 – 3.
DirtyYuni
April 24th, 2009
10:07 pm
Abwright- there is a word more pathetic than dribble. Norton just spittled to first.
Name
April 24th, 2009
10:07 pm
Braves pinch hits 2 for 23!
And after all the talk of a so-called “great” bench.
Steve from OH
April 24th, 2009
10:07 pm
Jason, Grienke is some kind of pitcher. I’m just happy that he’s overcome his depression and is seeingly back to what can easily be a HOF career.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
10:09 pm
Wow this offense is depressing…and why dont we try and run with KJ there and a reliever in?!
spotts
April 24th, 2009
10:09 pm
“Braves pinch hits 2 for 23!”
Braves lineup’s about the same. At least they’re consistant.
N Nine
April 24th, 2009
10:09 pm
Why root for Victorino’s Phillies? Do you really think Florida will hold 1st place? My worries go to Phillies and will always root against them.
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
10:10 pm
Wow. Howard barely missed back to back to back. Deep double.
Tokyo Bravo
April 24th, 2009
10:10 pm
I like Greinke a lot too, Steve, but not sure he could “easily” have a HOF career. Way too early, and way too many flameouts after a couple of seasons of excellence.
Macon Braves (RIP)
April 24th, 2009
10:10 pm
Would have preferred to see the Phillies slide continue, too early in the season to worry about being 4 games back of the Marlins.
I like listening to the games when Joe and Boog are calling them, they are good together…..plus it means I’m not having to hear Chip Caray. I would rather hear someone running their finger nails down a chalkboard than to listen to Chip.
DirtyYuni
April 24th, 2009
10:11 pm
Raffy in the 8th, huh? Alrighty…let’s see how this goes. Frankly, I think I’d like to see him closing the way he’s been pitching.
o-me
April 24th, 2009
10:11 pm
Pinch hits 2 for 23! Just let the pitcher hit.
Brandon
April 24th, 2009
10:11 pm
i miss the Macon Braves…
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
10:12 pm
Something tells me that Bobby isnt going to pitch Rafy….2 innings….is Bobby completely stupid?
Steve from OH
April 24th, 2009
10:12 pm
Yeah, Tokyo, bad wording. How ’bout…”has the potential to be” a HOF career?
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
10:12 pm
Well, bobby did bring sori in in the 8th like I suggested. Let’s hope it works out!
1995
April 24th, 2009
10:12 pm
Get us a big bat and we might be able to really pull off the east. Get on that Wren!!!
spotts
April 24th, 2009
10:12 pm
I agree Yuni…Gonzo hasn’t done much to solidify his role as the closer. Soriano’s been the only consistant and dominant guy in the bullpen so far.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
10:13 pm
Yunel flies out to right.
So, the Philthies just did to the Fish what they did to the Braves in that last game in Philly. Other than those few “crooked number” late inning wins, they’ve been pretty disappointing. With Hamels looking shaky, I think the Philthies are going to have a rough season. They’re having to come back late in every game.
Right now, the Marlins are definitely the team to beat. The Mets starting pitching, while mediocre, isn’t going to stay as bad as it has started the season. Unless they fix some serious holes, I think the Phillies are going to have a rough year.
Gil In Mechanicsville
April 24th, 2009
10:13 pm
Some of you jokers should not be allowed to watch a game live, you can’t handle the pressure, perceived or otherwise. If someone was handing out ten dollar bills, you would be complaining they were not twenties…
spotts
April 24th, 2009
10:13 pm
And on cue he allows a leadoff double.
Driver8
April 24th, 2009
10:13 pm
Anyone think Dayton Moore (who used to work for us) has something young and exciting in KC? Won’t probably see what he is developing this year but he does have a nice staff with Greinke, Meche, Davies(yes the same Kyle Davies) and Bannister.
Put together a bullpen that has Cruz and Farnsworth which we both had at one time and probably the most underrated closers in the game in Soria. Glad to see that he left and is doing some good promising things up there in KC.
Now back to the ball game … guys we can’t lose this game! Come on bullpen!
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
10:13 pm
Bobby the dumb butt….cant manage worth a crap.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
10:13 pm
gNats have come back on the Mets. It’s 4-3 in the ninth.
o-me
April 24th, 2009
10:14 pm
Oh, sh#T, not again.
keylargo
April 24th, 2009
10:14 pm
I’d take Bruce for the Braves outfield – in a second.
a643dp
April 24th, 2009
10:14 pm
My friend is at the Cub Cards game. He has no idea about boyer. I told him if they announce his name go get in the beer line asap and order four beers. You will need them trust me. LOL
Doc Holiday
April 24th, 2009
10:15 pm
Im not too sure we should be that glad the phillies are winning………when september comes…….they will be the ones that are near the top and not the fish.
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
10:15 pm
UGH.
Macon Braves (RIP)
April 24th, 2009
10:15 pm
As do I, Brandon…..
C's
April 24th, 2009
10:15 pm
Gil – LOL! That was funny. And couldn’t be more true.
spotts
April 24th, 2009
10:15 pm
Bruce is about as likely to come over as Ryan Braun.
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
10:16 pm
I’m the Miller Hi Life guy again…
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
10:16 pm
Come on Sori! At least make them earn it!
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
10:16 pm
Gotta pull Rafy…not looking good at all…cant throw strikes…we need another arm in the pen….
a643dp
April 24th, 2009
10:16 pm
Watch how you bunt Fat Boy.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
10:16 pm
Rafy doesn’t have the control tonight that he had in his last outing. Seemed to have Bruce struck out before the double, but he was not close to Encarnacion.
Doc Holiday
April 24th, 2009
10:17 pm
why the hell is soriano in ????????
gonzo is not as hot as he is.
1995
April 24th, 2009
10:17 pm
If the bullpen blows this tonight I say we pull a Nationals and get rid of everyone!!!!!!!!!!!!
LuisG
April 24th, 2009
10:17 pm
And oll of a sudden, Mr. Soriano wants to make things interesting…
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
10:17 pm
We’ll take that out every time.
a643dp
April 24th, 2009
10:17 pm
Bobby see how that is done?
abwright
April 24th, 2009
10:17 pm
Bunt moves the runners over. 2nd and 3rd with one out. Raffy needs to dial up his strike out pitch to a weak hitter in Gonzalez.
JasonInFL (Formerly ME)
April 24th, 2009
10:17 pm
Steve from OH, I agree…really, really happy for him. I now live about 35 miles from where Zack grew up…a lot of people around here rooting for him! He’s 1 out away from what should be his 2nd consecutive shutout with 10 K’s in each. An error allowed an unearned run to score today!
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
10:19 pm
In the words of Carlito Brigante, “here come da pain!”
JasonInFL (Formerly ME)
April 24th, 2009
10:19 pm
…and Greinke finishes it off. Ok, dumb question, and yes; I should know the answer. Greinke had a 34 inning scoreless streak going…if an unearned run scores, does it stop the streak or does it now stand at 43 since he just pitched another complete game?
abwright
April 24th, 2009
10:19 pm
Raffy has a 1-2 count (and boy was that one strike interesting). Needs to make a pitch.
Goldenglove002
April 24th, 2009
10:19 pm
Lets warm up the bats, because its looking like we might need them. So much for Soriano’s great start, lets hope he can get out of this
abwright
April 24th, 2009
10:20 pm
Sac fly, but Frenchy keeps the second runner at second. 4-3 Braves. 2 out.
a643dp
April 24th, 2009
10:20 pm
Good job frenchy to hold the runner.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
10:20 pm
Sac Fly…2-out runner on 2nd…come on Rafy.
DirtyYuni
April 24th, 2009
10:20 pm
Know how I was just saying Soriano should be the closer? Uh, yeah…scratch that.
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
10:20 pm
Good job Frenchy to keep the runner at 2nd. Keeps the tying runner from coming home on a passed ball.
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
10:20 pm
As nerve wracking as this is, Gonzo makes me more nervous.
YUNEL!
Not Again
April 24th, 2009
10:21 pm
N – I give a flippin F because if the Braves show any more ineptitude at the plate they’re gonna have to start using tees Spotts
these pearls of wisdom from the poster who didn’t even know if teams have won games with no hits? Are you 12? 14?
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
10:21 pm
THATABOY ESCO!!!!!!
Goldenglove002
April 24th, 2009
10:21 pm
Man, don’t tou guys wish there was some reality to those few rumors about Grienke to the Braves early in the offseason (Not saying we have any problems with our staff, Just would have us unstoppable from that side of the roster)
beachcomber
April 24th, 2009
10:21 pm
No room for error in the 9th Mikey!
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
10:21 pm
Is that new Brandon Jones kid a closer? Can he pitch?
Wayne in Utah
April 24th, 2009
10:21 pm
As I was just getting ready to type “if the Braves bullpen blows the game, many will start blaming Bobby”, and then I read that our resident idiot MFin04 has beat me to the punch.
You are piece of work….
What the heck does Bobby have to do with Soriano getting people out???
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
10:21 pm
Alright Chipper, last chance at that birthday present…
spotts
April 24th, 2009
10:21 pm
Nobody get upset about that earned run. Gil says we’re not allowed.
N Nine
April 24th, 2009
10:22 pm
nice D DirtyYuni!
Tom O'Hawke
April 24th, 2009
10:22 pm
“A little insurance couldn’t hurt”
Driver8
April 24th, 2009
10:22 pm
As the late Skip Carey would say ” Some insurance here in the 9th couldnt hurt” we all miss his voice.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
10:22 pm
Nix pinch hits for the pitcher. Hits a hard ground ball to Yunel, who throws him out to end the inning. Whew! Braves go to the ninth, leading 4-3.
Presumably Gonzo will come in to face the Reds top of the order in the ninth. It would be great for Chipper to hit a HR on his birthday.
nolie
April 24th, 2009
10:23 pm
I tell you what, there’s a lotta dribbling going on in this game. (abwright)
it’s cold season up there
DirtyYuni
April 24th, 2009
10:23 pm
That’s alright. Raffy got out of it largely unscathed. Bring on the cobra.
LuisG
April 24th, 2009
10:23 pm
Chipper’s due! A homerun here would be nice. (”A little insurance wouldn’t hurt” like Skip used to say)
Wayne in Utah
April 24th, 2009
10:23 pm
You fickle folks don’t deserve to call yourselves baseball fans. Soriano has been lights out up until this inning, and now some are ready to castigate him.
Get real folks!
lexbrave
April 24th, 2009
10:24 pm
i suppose it worked out, but i’d say if you go with the percentages, with 1 out and the tying run at 2nd with 1st base open and the pitchers spot due up next, you walk the batter and set up a force at every base and a potential inning ending double play.
Mixxo
April 24th, 2009
10:24 pm
Nice “Hey now!” moment there.
Matt Dillon
April 24th, 2009
10:24 pm
I blog with retards
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
10:24 pm
Making Chipper hit righty…is a stupid move with his hand as bad as it is…
spotts
April 24th, 2009
10:24 pm
these pearls of wisdom from the poster who didn’t even know if teams have won games with no hits? Are you 12? 14? not again
Wow I’m such an awful baseball fan because I wasn’t sure of that. And for your information, I’m 13. And a girl. Go N*SYNC!!!
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
10:25 pm
Wayne I gave your guys props last night after the win. You never got on after the game.
Tom O'Hawke
April 24th, 2009
10:25 pm
Driver8 …. haha, beat you
McFann Ô
April 24th, 2009
10:26 pm
Spotts Yeah. McCann could’ve done that.
He mighta done better. He hits like crazy in that ballpark. I count down the days until they get to play there!
Hey, I ain’t worried about anybody stealing his job.
Heard about that GS, too…dude, that’s a bummer.
Goldenglove002
April 24th, 2009
10:26 pm
How does Chipper go 0-5 on his birthday? It seems like he normally dominates every April 24th
Steve from OH
April 24th, 2009
10:26 pm
Two AB in a row Chipper has come off the field holding his thumb…he needs another 2 or three days off, I think.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
10:27 pm
Pujols and Ludwick are the scariest 3, 4 hitter next to Chipper and Kotchman, lol.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
10:27 pm
Chipper flies out to right. After his earlier at bats, that was improvement.
This would be a great time for Kotchman to get his first HR.
JasonInFL (Formerly ME)
April 24th, 2009
10:28 pm
Goldenglove002, you are right…pitching is not our issue. But, I believe Greinke is on his way to the next level and has the talent to be truly dominant. I remember reading something on ESPN about a GM of another team stating he thought this year was the year that Greinke fully arrived and that he would win the Cy Young. Well, it’s certainly early, but he is 4-0 with a 0.00 ERA, 36Ks, 6 walks, and a .83 WHIP in 29 innings. Not bad…
Wayne in Utah
April 24th, 2009
10:29 pm
MFin04
Are you trying to make up for your idiocy by pandering to me about the Jazz??? (it might work, in actuality)
Actually, I have been quite busy for a few days. Didn’t even catch the game. Hope to go to the game tomorrow night if I can score some nose-bleed tickets.
DirtyYuni
April 24th, 2009
10:29 pm
I’m just going to go ahead and say it. Casey Kotchman is sexy. A real looker…
Macon Braves (RIP)
April 24th, 2009
10:29 pm
The thumb has got to be bothering Chipper. He almost looks like an automatic out up there right now.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
10:29 pm
Casey K. had a good at bat there…good job.
spotts
April 24th, 2009
10:29 pm
There we go…good to see some hits.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
10:29 pm
Kotchman has a good at bat and gets a hit through the left side of the infield. Time to play some station to station baseball.
Macon Braves (RIP)
April 24th, 2009
10:30 pm
Brandon–Speaking of Chipper, did you have the opportunity to see Chipper play in Macon at Luther Williams Field?
Wayne in Utah
April 24th, 2009
10:30 pm
If Chipper is hurting, maybe we should give Prado a start to see if it helps. At this rate, he ain’t helping if he is hurt.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
10:31 pm
Be nice to me i have Strep…and I’m Bipolar. Yeh you should look up last night at like 12:30…I cant stand the Lakers…and Like the Jazz. Played against Brewer and D Will in High School.
DirtyYuni
April 24th, 2009
10:33 pm
Do my eyes deceive me or is Frenchy actually working an at-bat here?
abwright
April 24th, 2009
10:33 pm
After a long at bat, Frenchy flies out to center.
Diaz is our last hope for a stress free bottom of the ninth.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
10:34 pm
Infante and Prado and maybe BJ need to get the start tomorrow L/R regardless.
Blaine Boyer, the Lead Destroyer
April 24th, 2009
10:34 pm
Apparently you haven’t watched the Braves all season DirtyYuni. Jeff’s worked the count well most of the year.
Mixxo
April 24th, 2009
10:34 pm
Macon Braves (RIP) – Met him at Whiskey River a couple of times, saw him at the Waffle House on Pio Nono too. Wished him a good year before ST in 95 ….he said thanks and you know the rest.
Mark in PA
April 24th, 2009
10:34 pm
pretty good AB there by Jeff, even as F8
Andy K.
April 24th, 2009
10:35 pm
Hope nothing bad is going down behind the scenes. DOB hasnt checked in in quite a while.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
10:35 pm
I’m rally capping…this is going to be scary as heck…come on Gonzo!!!!
Black Shawn
April 24th, 2009
10:36 pm
Nobody tell tommy im with his daughter.
DirtyYuni
April 24th, 2009
10:36 pm
I’ve noticed him doing that. I just keep having visions of him flailing at balls 8 yards outside the strikezone last year that I can’t shake…you know how some bad dreams just stick with you?
spotts
April 24th, 2009
10:36 pm
alrighty…time for Mike “The Rollercoaster” Gonzalez
Driver8
April 24th, 2009
10:36 pm
Gonzo Time .. and time to break out the Pepto! Let’s hope Mike has an smoothe 9th.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
10:37 pm
Diaz flies out to the warning track in right.
Time to sweat out another 1 run ninth.
It’s hard to believe that this is the fourth game in a row that goes into the decisive part of the ninth with the teams separated by 1 run.
Wayne in Utah
April 24th, 2009
10:37 pm
MFin04
Yes, we have something in common; our dislike for the Lakers. Koby (diamonds will buy your way out of a lot of trouble) Bryant is the best player in basketball right now, but my least favorite.
Actually, I got lucky moving to Utah, to become a Jazz/Sloan fan. They are going to be talking about Chris Paul and D-Will for years to come, though D-Will has his number.
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
10:37 pm
One run lead on the road. Mike Gonalez. I’m not worried.
Blaine Boyer, the Lead Destroyer
April 24th, 2009
10:38 pm
I feel you on that DirtyYuni. So far this season, Jeff has seemed like a different person. Good to see.
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
10:38 pm
Just throw strikes, baby!
Brandon
April 24th, 2009
10:38 pm
Macon Braves (RIP)…never got the chance
The only prominant Braves player I got to see was Furcal(i think, its been 10+ years.
Luther Williams Field is a great place to watch baseball… but the Macon Peaches and the Macon Music were not worth watching…
nolie
April 24th, 2009
10:38 pm
Chipper’s due!
Chipper’s probably due for a down year.
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
10:38 pm
Gonzo is better in the true closer spot though.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
10:38 pm
Gonzo getting squeeze. Strikes are strikes…call them
Driver8
April 24th, 2009
10:39 pm
Rock and Fire GONZO!!!!!
Mixxo
April 24th, 2009
10:39 pm
Lets go Gonzo! Attaboy!
LuisG
April 24th, 2009
10:39 pm
I guess that’s Kerry Ligtenberg warming up in the bullpen.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
10:39 pm
Strike out nice…threw all strikes…but the first one.
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
10:39 pm
K!
Mark in PA
April 24th, 2009
10:39 pm
94 on the third strike by Mike
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
10:40 pm
The boy has got swagger down pat.
o-me
April 24th, 2009
10:40 pm
Wayne hows the weather in Utah? I use to buy and sell quarter horses at Quarterhorses and Arena, LLC., Castle Dale, Utah. Beautiful place.
Goldenglove002
April 24th, 2009
10:40 pm
Come on Gonzo, hurry up and close out this game so I can get on to looking at all the mock drafts to see who everyone thinks is coming to the Falcons.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
10:40 pm
Gonzo strikes out Tavaraz looking.
The ump faked T out by calling a close inside pitch a ball. He put the bat on his shoulder and relied on the ump to give him first. Gonzo dumped some great pitches right into the heart of the zone.
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
10:40 pm
Oh nolie… on his birthday?
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
10:40 pm
He’s got some gas tonight…hopefully no one gets a hold of one.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
10:41 pm
They call one curve a strike…one a ball…wow.
Wayne in Utah
April 24th, 2009
10:41 pm
Rainy tonight…
Castle Dale, not often I hear of that town from non-Utahn’s!
spotts
April 24th, 2009
10:42 pm
Looks like Gonzo’s finally back on track
Choppinmama
April 24th, 2009
10:42 pm
McFann: did you ever notice when BMac doesn’t play, he acts as the official batting helmet taker-offer for certain players?
I’ll say good night early, I know you’re out when the game is over. Don’t you know this is absolutely killing him. Let’s hope we have good “eye” news tomorrow.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
10:42 pm
Two out….good play by Gonzo…grab and lobs short to first. Casey makes a nice scoop.
LuisG
April 24th, 2009
10:42 pm
Nolie, please, don’t do that to Chipper.
DirtyYuni
April 24th, 2009
10:42 pm
The Cobra is on tonight. Did I see a 95 mph heater in there?
abwright
April 24th, 2009
10:42 pm
Hairston pinch hits for Dickerson. Hits the ball right into Gonzo’s glove. Easy out at first. 2 down.
Need to blotto Votto to finish the game.
keylargo
April 24th, 2009
10:42 pm
No TV tomorrow because of the conflict with FOX?
Macon Braves (RIP)
April 24th, 2009
10:42 pm
Agree with you about the Peaches and Music.
Along with Chipper and Furcal, I remember seeing Andruw at Luther Williams, you could tell with all three at that level that they were going to eventually make the show.
As a kid, I remember getting to play T-ball league games on the field (there would be like four games going on at one time around the outfield) when the Pirates had a minor league team there. The Macon Pirate players would actually serve as the umpires in the games. Very cool experience as a young baseball fan.
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
10:43 pm
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
10:43 pm
I give up I dont know what a strike is anymore.
spotts
April 24th, 2009
10:43 pm
Goldenglove – me too. I’m hoping for Ziggy
Goldenglove002
April 24th, 2009
10:43 pm
2 out, c’mon Gonzo!
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
10:43 pm
Wow. I’m an umpire for high school baseball and have been through training with some of the pro umps. I don’t think I’ve ever seen an ump this inconsistent with his strike zone. I usually take up for the umps, because it is really a hard job, especially with balls being thrown so hard with so much movement and many close plays that are really just difficult to see, but this guy is pretty bad considering he’s a professional.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
10:43 pm
Gonzo just drained two strikes in there. 1-2.
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
10:43 pm
LOL @ Hudson
Smyrna Jim
April 24th, 2009
10:43 pm
That works for me!
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
10:43 pm
Braves win!!!!!
Random
April 24th, 2009
10:43 pm
Kim — Thanks.
At the risk of repeating another’s insight, I figure if Escobar had kept his cool and just taken his base after being plunked in the 3rd, the umpires would not have warned both teams that the next HBP would result in both the pitcher’s and manager’s ejection.
And then, Vazquez could have “accidentally” plunked Gonzalez in the 4th and struck out Volquez. Instead, Gonzalez singled in the tying run with 2 on and 2 out.
Escobar needs to bring it down a notch — I hope the Braves’ Kangaroo Court makes an appropriate ruling on his behavior tonight.
DirtyYuni
April 24th, 2009
10:44 pm
Tell ya what…Gonzo looks like he might want that closer’s role, doesn’t he?
Blaine Boyer, the Lead Destroyer
April 24th, 2009
10:44 pm
Strike out on Votto. 1-2-3 for Gonzo! Nice win.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
10:44 pm
Strike 3 called on a great bender. Braves win! Braves win!
Ugaman
April 24th, 2009
10:44 pm
Yeah Gonzo! Great Job. Man is he a different pitcher in the ninth inning or what?
Macon Braves (RIP)
April 24th, 2009
10:44 pm
YEAH BABY, that’s the Gonzo we’ve been waiting for !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Mixxo
April 24th, 2009
10:44 pm
Rock ‘em & sock ‘em G!
Braves Rule
April 24th, 2009
10:44 pm
WOOOOHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1
Driver8
April 24th, 2009
10:44 pm
GONZO = Nasty rocking back and forth …. awesome!
Goldenglove002
April 24th, 2009
10:44 pm
2 strikes, Gonzo looks good, trying to prove he can still be the closer, make that 3
Braves win!
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
10:44 pm
YEAH!!! What a good game.
LuisG
April 24th, 2009
10:44 pm
W!
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
10:44 pm
YEAH! Braves win!
Hey DOB, is Gonzo as cocky as he looks? Or is that just showmanship?
keylargo
April 24th, 2009
10:45 pm
I hope I see some combination of Moylan, Soriano and Gonzalez about 40 times this year.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
10:45 pm
Three guys in the bullpen are coming around. Starting pitching is great…offense is horrendous…but if pitchers walk in runs…we can win some games, lol
Wayne in Utah
April 24th, 2009
10:45 pm
Nice win. Talk at ya tomorrow…..
PS I am getting tired of hearing about Brett Favre talking about loving to mow his lawn!
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
10:45 pm
Nice to see the patient at-bats tonight. Gotta think that’s what won the day.
Night, blog.
MrC
April 24th, 2009
10:45 pm
Awesome
Rodney Derrick
April 24th, 2009
10:46 pm
Our rocking closer and three bullpen aces are starting to do the job. Those three elbows are feeling better!
Wayne in Utah
April 24th, 2009
10:46 pm
and “Looky, looky, looky, here comes Cooky……”
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
10:46 pm
I guess that’s all the happy birthday Chipper is gonna get.
Braves Rule
April 24th, 2009
10:46 pm
Anyone want to mow my lawn? offering 20 bucks.
Driver8
April 24th, 2009
10:46 pm
Now all Braves fans can relax and enjoy some Baseball Tonight with a smile on our faces.
MrC
April 24th, 2009
10:46 pm
Love the line….4 runs, 4 hits, 1 error versus 3 runs, 8 hits, 1 error. Braves don’t normally win games like that
cabravesfan
April 24th, 2009
10:46 pm
think we can stop worrying about Gonzo
northbeach Scott
April 24th, 2009
10:46 pm
Gonzo hit 95-96 MPH four times in the last two ABs. That 85 MPH slider was filthy coming off of the heater to the last batter for the second K of the inning. Good Save Gonzo!
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
10:47 pm
I’ll give Bobby some credit…he got some extra work for Gonzo…and he looked great tonight after having that extra work.
Tom O'Hawke
April 24th, 2009
10:47 pm
spotts …. I told you after the win against the Nats, when they walked us in a run with the bases loaded, that it still didn’t make up for that horrendous Phillie loss. This victory just got me a lot closer, to forgetting that disaster.
bravefaninok
April 24th, 2009
10:47 pm
LOL @ Hudson,I say huddys gotta try that sway out.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
10:47 pm
That’s back-to-back one run wins on the road.
This is the kind of game that I expected the Braves to play this year. Low-scoring, mostly good defense, timely hitting (or walking).
Rabid Rascal
April 24th, 2009
10:48 pm
Gonzo looked impressive tonight, Frenchy having two walks and a homer, and a win with four hits, wait when the rest of the sticks get going. Maybe some of our pitching mojo went down and hit the Marlins pen tonight!
Mixxo
April 24th, 2009
10:48 pm
Macon Braves – I’ve mixed concerts on that field. That count as playing?
zephyr 8
April 24th, 2009
10:48 pm
Vintage Gonzo. Hit 95-96 on the gun with good location.
abwright
April 24th, 2009
10:48 pm
Jason Bay just hit a 2 out ninth inning HR off Mariano Rivera to tie the Yanks at 4-4.
Brett Faver
April 24th, 2009
10:48 pm
I love mowing my lawn.
a643dp
April 24th, 2009
10:49 pm
Bay just went yard on Mo yanks sox tied at 4 in the 9th
Doc Holiday
April 24th, 2009
10:50 pm
Another 1 run road win………now thats a team…
beachcomber
April 24th, 2009
10:50 pm
This what we had hoped for – being on the good side of a lot of 4-3 games – and turning games into six innimng affairs with the pen. Good job guys!
Macon Braves (RIP)
April 24th, 2009
10:50 pm
Mixxo–Sure it does, why not?!?!
Wayne in Utah
April 24th, 2009
10:51 pm
MFin04
An honest question. Don’t you feel a little silly with your last statement about Bobby doing a good job, after just an inning or so earlier, you were slamming him for bringing in Soriano first.
This is why sometimes it is best to just hold your tongue, or in this case, keyboard; and not make so many rash statements.
Telling you this not trying to be confrontational, but trying to get you to see how silly some of those posts sound to lots of us. Patience, my friend. Just let it come to you…..
Later……
McFann Ô
April 24th, 2009
10:52 pm
Choppinmama–
I have noticed that…kinda funny. He and Timmy hung out together for almost the entire game, too.
Yeah, this is definitely killing him. You know he just hates it when he can’t play. Hoping for some goods news, ’cause this is so not optimal.
OK, headin’ out. Good win, boys! Keep it up!
Night, all!
Wayne in Utah
April 24th, 2009
10:53 pm
We could just as easily go on a 5 game losing streak, but a win is good, especially on the road.
I think we needed to understand that the first few months of this season will be very trying at times, as this team figures itself out.
keylargo
April 24th, 2009
10:53 pm
Northbeach Scott
Where did you see 95 mph for the fastball and 85 for the breaking ball? SportSouth’s radar had him at 91 – 92 and 77 – 78.
beachcomber
April 24th, 2009
10:54 pm
Driver 8 – Your 10:46 post. Roger that – Baseball Tonight is a lot sweeter after a game like this. Here’s to many more this year.
cabravesfan
April 24th, 2009
10:55 pm
Sounds like Mac is going to get his eye fixed…
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
10:55 pm
What’s the spread on Chipper sitting tomorrow?
I hope McFann is still up!
zephyr 8
April 24th, 2009
10:55 pm
I heard 92 was highest on the radio, but Gameday is usually spot on and he had many pitches at 94+
brent a.
April 24th, 2009
10:55 pm
I think the one thing we have learned for sure about Gonzo is that he pitches his best in a save situation.
spotts
April 24th, 2009
10:55 pm
I’m glad they just replayed the McCann triple….that made my night
brent a.
April 24th, 2009
10:57 pm
We drew 10 walks and scored 4 runs.
The Reds drew 3 walks and scored 3 runs.
It’s interesting.
I really hope we add a bat to this offense.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
10:58 pm
Bobby makes a lot of stupid moves..and made a lot of stupid moves in this game…but the extra work…for Gonzo…seems to have paid off for Gonzo…i was merely stating that it turned out to be a good move…after I questioning a lot of his moves. Nothing wrong with that.
Mark in PA
April 24th, 2009
10:58 pm
Well, the offense is still stink-o. Another qality start by Vasquez- more of the pitching not losing than the Braves beating them. (Frenchy, of course, being the exception). Not going to win two out of three in Cincy that way, I’ll bet.
Great to see two one-run road wins, though! The “O” is showing patience, esp. the bottom of the order, which is good. Hope that this is a sign of things turning around.
zephyr 8
April 24th, 2009
10:58 pm
http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/gameday/index.jsp?gid=2009_04_24_atlmlb_cinmlb_1&mode=gameday
Heres the gameday link. You can see that they have him at 94-95. Its pretty reliable.
Run Heap Run
April 24th, 2009
10:59 pm
Me too, spotts. I didn’t think we were gonna get to see it. No matter what happens in his career, in 50 years that will still be my favorite McCann moment lol.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
11:00 pm
Vazquez get the win. and Gonzo a save? Cant remember if Javy has the lead?
leif garret anderson
April 24th, 2009
11:01 pm
I remember back in the 90’s when the pitching was better than the hitting….looks like that again. The question begs to be asked is our pitching better than our hitting?
keylargo
April 24th, 2009
11:03 pm
Zephyr8
Thanks for that link to GameDay. I was not questioning that you saw him at 95, just that the TV’s radar was showing 91 – 92. But that has to be knee buckling at whatever speed to see that breaking ball coming in 12 or 15 mph slower!
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
11:06 pm
“The question begs to be asked is our pitching better than our hitting?” -LGA
How in Crap’s Parlor is that question begging to be asked? Do you mean, because nobody would ask it, it has to beg to be asked?
richbrave
April 24th, 2009
11:06 pm
Do I dare exhale yet. FRANCOUER is hitting again. And KOTCHMAN too.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
11:08 pm
The first run for the Reds,,,was unearned because of the past ball? Someone explain that to me?
N Nine
April 24th, 2009
11:09 pm
Sounds like Mac is going to get his eye fixed…
Yes, Clint is OTW to Cincy for tomorrow’s game.
Chop Chop
April 24th, 2009
11:09 pm
It wasn’t a present ball.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
11:10 pm
How does that work?
Chop Chop
April 24th, 2009
11:11 pm
The ball wasn’t present.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
11:11 pm
So McCann is going to have more Lasik?
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
11:13 pm
How does it work?
Rodney Derrick
April 24th, 2009
11:13 pm
Tex strikes out to end the inning on a 3-2 count with runners on second and third. Papelbon blew that one by him, high and hard. I thought it would have been a ball, walking him.
David O'Brien
April 24th, 2009
11:13 pm
It’s very likely that McCann is going on DL tomorrow, and he made it sound like he’s decided to have the surgery. He wants to get this squared away now, he said, miss a couple of weeks and get back, rather than keep trying to fix it with contacts, etc.
Sammons has been called from Gwinnett. Again, it’s not definite yet, but sounds pretty close to definite. As Bobby said, he didn’t anticipate anything changing overnight. McCann sounds like, in his mind, he’s already decided to have Lasik.
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
11:14 pm
MFin04, see this whole thing is a matter of who-knows-who… and then over here you have favortism…
Paul Masson
April 24th, 2009
11:14 pm
why the hell is soriano in ????????
gonzo is not as hot as he is.
Doc Holiday
yup you know a lot. like a little cheese with that totally needless whine?
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
11:14 pm
Good idea…for McCann he hasnt looked himself with the contacts…he looked like he was in pain in the dugout always squinting and stuff.
Rodney Derrick
April 24th, 2009
11:15 pm
And now Atlanta’s own Nick Green of the Red Sox leads off the bottom of the tenth
Tom O'Hawke
April 24th, 2009
11:15 pm
“The first run for the Reds,,,was unearned because of the past ball? Someone explain that to me?” — MFin04
The PB, which really should have been scored a throwing error IMO, allowed the runner to get into scoring position (which he did).
northbeach Scott
April 24th, 2009
11:15 pm
keylargo what zephyr 8 said, MLB Gametracker. Typically, these are fairly accurate. Perhaps Cincy turned down the speed gun a bit for the Brave’s pitchers at the top of each inning to mess with their confidence.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
11:15 pm
What do you mean by that?
richbrave
April 24th, 2009
11:16 pm
4-3 win on the road sounds like days of yore during the 14 year streak. And sure enough a trip to the boxscore showed the result. Pitching, pitching, pitching. three BB’s and 12 SO’s by BRAVES pitching. Nine BB’s and 10 SO’s for CINCINATI. And hits by KOTCHMAN and FRANCOUER.
Mitchell
April 24th, 2009
11:17 pm
Did the Braves seriously just win back to back one run road games?
Impossible.
I understand Johan Santana struck out ten Nationals batters to Vasquez’s nine. I wonder who will garner more time on SportsCenter. Sure, he got one more. Vasquez could strike out 20 batters and all they would do is talk about Santana.
Hey, Nick Green. A Red Sock. I did not know that. Former Brave. I wonder if Smoltz even remembers him.
Rodney Derrick
April 24th, 2009
11:17 pm
Nick strikes out. At least I am simultaneously watching my DVR recording of “Festival Express” rockers touring Canada in 1970 from IFC channel and the late great Janis Japlin is singing about Casablanca
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
11:18 pm
The guy was already on with a hit though…so if there is an error that advances the runner….then its an unearned run?
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
11:19 pm
what if the guy hits a homerun with the guy on second after the error…are both earned runs? or one is earned and one is unearned?
braves just did the impossible
April 24th, 2009
11:19 pm
siap, but when was the last time that the braves won back to back one run road games? i say at least 3 years….
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
11:20 pm
MNin04, seriously, no earned run is given when the flat given is over the pitcher’s current control frame. Volquez was past his when the run scored. After that, it’s all unearned for either club.
Not Again
April 24th, 2009
11:22 pm
Bobby makes a lot of stupid moves..and made a lot of stupid moves in this game… (MFin04)
like Bill James says, people who make statements like that are rank amateurs.
N Nine
April 24th, 2009
11:24 pm
MNin04
Is that me crunched up with MFin04?
Tom O'Hawke
April 24th, 2009
11:25 pm
“The guy was already on with a hit though…so if there is an error that advances the runner….then its an unearned run?”
Yes, with the single. Otherwise, he wouldn’t have scored.
“what if the guy hits a homerun with the guy on second after the error…are both earned runs? or one is earned and one is unearned?”
Both runs would be earned.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
11:25 pm
Ok, maybe someone can explain it in English because that didnt make sense.
Mark in PA
April 24th, 2009
11:27 pm
Enter your comments here
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
11:27 pm
Good stuff, Tom, that’s kind of a weird way to score it…because guys would be on 1st and 3rd with 1 out…and could get driven in…without a hit…and it would be an earned run? Thats complicated.
N Nine
April 24th, 2009
11:27 pm
Mike goes Gonzo when it’s a close save situation. Let’s hope we can stay close with the gang until McCann comes back.
Tom O'Hawke
April 24th, 2009
11:28 pm
MFin04 …. Bubdylan is giving you the rules from the planet, jXo78F.
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
11:29 pm
N Nine, I guess it must be. Oy.
Chop Chop
April 24th, 2009
11:31 pm
The Braves actually won a couple of one-run games on the road (one against the Mets; one against the Phils) toward the end of last season. They broke the spell.
N Nine
April 24th, 2009
11:32 pm
Well we know Stafford is going #1
Baseball and draft day, tomorrow’s a national holiday for me.
Chop Chop
April 24th, 2009
11:32 pm
Youk beats the Yanks with a walkoff solo shot in the bottom of the 11th.
richbrave
April 24th, 2009
11:33 pm
TOMMY HANSON tagged with a third loss tonight. 95 pitches, 62 strikes; 4 groundouts, 8 flies; faces 24 batters through 6.0 IP; 4 H; 2 R; 1 ER; 2 BB; 6 SO; 0 HR; 2.18 ERA. Looks like a quality start with little run support and an unearned run creating the decision.
cabravesfan
April 24th, 2009
11:34 pm
I see the falcons are looking at taking Brian Cushing in the first round…you guys will LOVE this guy
Cherokee
April 24th, 2009
11:35 pm
what if the guy hits a homerun with the guy on second after the error…are both earned runs? or one is earned and one is unearned? MFin04
yes, both are earned. he did not get on base via the error, he got into scoring position for the base hat. A homer would make it a moot point
Tom O'Hawke
April 24th, 2009
11:36 pm
MFin04 ……. 1) Pretend you’re the official scorer. At the end of the inning, ask yourself, what would’ve happened if there is no error? Keep in mind, an unearned run can turn into an earned run, as the inning devolops.
2) Don’t pay any attention to Bubdylan, after 11:00pm, on a Friday. He tends to get silly.
N Nine
April 24th, 2009
11:37 pm
cabravesfan You’ve got to be the coolest chick.
Big time Braves fann, keep up with football, and “not enough beers” =o)
Rodney Derrick
April 24th, 2009
11:37 pm
Kevin Youklis walk off homer and the Red Sox and Smoltz one step closer to losing game seven of the World Series to Tom Glavine or Tommy Hansen of the Atlanta Braves!
Joey
April 24th, 2009
11:37 pm
It’s MOO point. It’s like a cow’s opinion. Just doesn’t matter.
MFin04
April 24th, 2009
11:38 pm
It takes a very intelligent person to figure this out. So if a guy singles or doubled….its unearned….triple or homer…its earned (since he got to first legitimately).
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
11:38 pm
MFin04, Tom is correct. I am being completely goofy. I wasn’t even sure you were really asking, so… my bad.
Mixxo
April 24th, 2009
11:39 pm
Chop Chop – Grrrrrr! If you only knew how I hate the sawx.
cabravesfan – I hope we get him. He looks like a winner.
alsim
April 24th, 2009
11:39 pm
Greg Norton needs to stick to playing bass for Hüsker Dü.
Chop Chop
April 24th, 2009
11:40 pm
I would have called a passed ball on McCann because he is the regular starter. You can’t expect a temp to do everything right.
Tom O'Hawke
April 24th, 2009
11:40 pm
richbrave …. That may be Hanson’s best start so far. It’s the best one that I am aware of.
Chop Chop
April 24th, 2009
11:40 pm
Mixxo,
If you only knew how much I hate the Yanks…
richbrave
April 24th, 2009
11:41 pm
cabravesfan:
You mean if he stays on the juice.
Bubdylan
April 24th, 2009
11:41 pm
YOUK!
Every time the Yankees lose, and angel gets new shoes…
No, really, I’m going to bed.
WAITER!
cabravesfan
April 24th, 2009
11:41 pm
N Nine-
awww thanks- that’s sweet
I’ve been a huge sports fan my entire life, season ticket holder to USC football since I was 7 (I can count on one hand how many games I have missed in my life)- one of the nice things about living in Southern California is we can still tailgate (and play beer pong- yes we still play beer pong) in December…not much beats that
Cherokee
April 24th, 2009
11:42 pm
triple or homer…its earned (since he got to first legitimately). MF
not sure about the triple, but the homer makes it earned
Chop Chop
April 24th, 2009
11:42 pm
The Yanks beat us twice in the World Series. Half of our World Series losses in the ’90s came against those b******s. I can never cheer for them. Ever. Never. Ever. NeverEverEverEver.
No chance.
Die, Yanks, die! I hate you. Die! Go Sox!
Tom O'Hawke
April 24th, 2009
11:42 pm
N Nine …. If you’re falling for cabravesfan, get in line!
cabravesfan
April 24th, 2009
11:42 pm
richbrave-
trust me, not on the juice…he is one of the hardest working people you will ever see…he’s not the biggest, strongest, or fastest, but he will out work and out hustle anyone
Mitchell
April 24th, 2009
11:43 pm
If the Braves can win a single game with David Ross in the line-up I suppose there’s no reason why we can’t somehow also maybe win with Sammons. I guess.
Clint Sammons makes Nick Green look like Ryan Howard.
I bet Nick Green is like “Hey John, we used to play together. You remember me right?”
Smoltz: “Uh, sure yeah. Right. Hey you.”
cabravesfan
April 24th, 2009
11:43 pm
It’s OK boys, I don’t mind sharing! Only one condition: you have to come out here…I can’t live without the ocean
cabravesfan
April 24th, 2009
11:44 pm
Tom O’Hawke-
I know you only want me for my dog!
Interested Observer
April 24th, 2009
11:46 pm
Are they sure McCann’s problem is just a change in vision? I’m not sure when he first had problems with his eye, but he was playing well during the WBC and early in the season. Normal vision changes don’t happen overnight. I just hope the Lasik enhancement will solve it.
Tom O'Hawke
April 24th, 2009
11:46 pm
MFin04 …… The official scorer should know baseball, and be intelligent. The key word in that sentence was “should”.
Choppinmama
April 24th, 2009
11:48 pm
Random: about the warnings, the announcers explained that if Yunel had fussed, been held back, then gone down to 1st, no warning. But it had to be issued ’cause both benches emptied.
Doc Holiday
April 24th, 2009
11:48 pm
Paul Masson,
You dont sound too smart, since im not forcing you to read my posts, am I?
Dont like them? you know what to do…………
In case not………….dont read them and If you cant help it and you HAVE to read them……….then just shut up.
Tom O'Hawke
April 24th, 2009
11:49 pm
Bubdylan … one more beer, and by the stroke of midnight, I will be joining you in Sillyland, USA. (the difference is probably a time-zone thing)
Tom O'Hawke
April 24th, 2009
11:54 pm
cabravesfan …… What? You have something against the Atlantic? When’s the last time you witnessed a beautiful morning sunrise on the ocean?
monty
April 24th, 2009
11:55 pm
Vasquez continues to impress.WE have found the secret to winning, play teams that will walk in runs for you, so you don’t have to hit the ball. It seems to be all the rave this year in baseball.
cabravesfan
April 24th, 2009
11:55 pm
Tom O’Hawke-
nothing against the Atlantic at all! (what part?) But I am NOT a morning person…I prefer my sun to set over the ocean
(and we have some spectacular sunsets!)
Paul Masson
April 24th, 2009
11:56 pm
.dont read them and If you cant help it and you HAVE to read them……….then just shut up. Doc
yeah you are right I can’t help it. It’s like a horrible accident, everybody looks. Actually it’s more like the funny papers, a laugh a minute. And of course if you have the right to publish such stupidity, then I have the right to comment on it. If you don’t like it, shut up yourself. That would be one less negative moron on here. Try a nice Merlot and some grapes and chill out, rather than constantly making a fool of yourself like tonight. I promise, it’s healthier and you’ll thank me someday.
Tom O'Hawke
April 24th, 2009
11:57 pm
cabravesfan ….. I suppose I should be honest with you. There’s something about a cigarette smoking, beer drinking dog, that I’m finding irresistable.
Tomas
April 24th, 2009
11:59 pm
Well without Mac, it’s going to be hard to score runs, but if they play like they played today, there is no problem. I wonder if Bobby will use a straight platoon with Diaz and Brandon Jones. He should move Schafer to the leadoff spot, and move Kelly to the 6th spot in the order.
cabravesfan
April 25th, 2009
12:00 am
Tom O’Hawke- Don’t forget “three legged”
David O'Brien
April 25th, 2009
12:00 am
Interested Observer: I had the same reaction, the same thoughts, as you regarding this whole thing. Just seems odd that vision literally overnight became a big issue. He’s raking during the spring, then opening night it’s all blurry. But he doesn’t have a corneal abrasion or anything like that, doesn’t have any goop in his eyes, very little redness that I’ve noticed, etc. And he’s been examined by top-notch specialists.
N Nine
April 25th, 2009
12:01 am
cabravesfan Sounds like fun down there in sunny warm CA. You should never leave there, Tom and I will make a quick dodgers-braves game visit.
Ill buy the dog his beer.
Your boy Sanchez will make the draft interesting. So many teams hungry to get him. I’m guessing 4-6th pick.
cabravesfan
April 25th, 2009
12:03 am
N Nine-
Come on out! I could use some friends to go to the game with.
To be perfectly honest, I am not totally sold on Sanchez…I like him a lot and think he is a great QB but I’m not sure he’s as ready as everyone seems to think he is. You are right, should be interesting (and if he lasts past the Seahawks I will be very suprised- they need…a lot but QB is kinda important)
and the dog is a girl
Tom O'Hawke
April 25th, 2009
12:03 am
cabravesfan …. Just another typical male lie. The only way I’d see the morning sunrise, on the ocean, would be if I partied so hard, on the sands of Cape Cod, that I passed out and then came to, just as the sun was rising. Sunsets, on the other hand, are more in my time frame.
David O'Brien
April 25th, 2009
12:04 am
Chipper’s succinct, honest appraisal of the Escobar-Volquez incident:
“Esco’s high-strung, and he overreacts sometimes. There was no intent [by Volquez to hit him]. If you’re going to stand on top of the plate, you’ve got to expect to get hit. if you get hit, take your base. There’s no reason to get everybody geared up, warnings given, [and then umpires] take away the inside of the plate.”
On Escobar, he added: “You don’t want to take away from what he is. He’s an energetic guy…. Apparently he doesn’t like getting hit.”
cabravesfan
April 25th, 2009
12:04 am
Tom O’Hawke- That’s about the only way I would see a sunrise too
monty
April 25th, 2009
12:05 am
Terry Pendleton deserves a raise for his good work with the offense. If a team doesn’t hit do you fire the hitting coach, like in football if your offense is no good you fire the offensive coordinator?
Tom O'Hawke
April 25th, 2009
12:09 am
cabravesfan …. I didn’t forget the “three legged”. I’m just not sure if that’s a selling point. I suppose if she sneaks out on you, she can’t get too far.
cabravesfan
April 25th, 2009
12:11 am
Tom O’Hawke- She’s only 3 legged when it serves her best…she knows I’ll feel all sorry for her and let her on the couch (and into the beer)
Bear
April 25th, 2009
12:12 am
Hey Tom O’Hawke. I’m glad you’re here. I listened to that music video last night, and I really liked it. Tried to save it, but I screwed up. Any chance you can give me that link again? I promise I’ll save it this time. I’m not drunk.
Tom O'Hawke
April 25th, 2009
12:15 am
cabravesfan …. If that’s what it takes to allow me to get on your couch, watch the Braves, and have you serve me beer, I’ll hobble around on one leg, myself. (don’t smoke, pass on the cigarettes. chips would be nice though)
Mitchell
April 25th, 2009
12:17 am
Love to see a Braves win but it’s not quite the same without my beloved Katy Temple.
Sigh
Yunel's Frosted Tips
April 25th, 2009
12:18 am
Chipper’s broke down a$$ better lay off me, just because he got a new laptop don’t mean he can tell me how to act when I get hit by a pitch. He only gets hit once or twice a year, anymore and he’d never play a game.
PStone
April 25th, 2009
12:18 am
Anyone have any good baseball books to recommend? Maybe a Mantle book with some good stories from the road?
cabravesfan
April 25th, 2009
12:18 am
Well we’re still (kinda) on the subject of football…anyone see the Lions apparently agreed with Matthew Stafford on a 6 year deal worth $41.7 million in guranteed money? So much for the struggling economy…
Tom O'Hawke
April 25th, 2009
12:19 am
Bear, bear (alright, how many have ever started a sentence off that way?) with me. It may take me a few minutes, but I have it.
cabravesfan
April 25th, 2009
12:20 am
Tom O’Hawke-
I am not a waitress…you want service, go to Hooters
cabravesfan
April 25th, 2009
12:21 am
If you, however, want to serve me while hopping around on one leg I have no objections
keylargo
April 25th, 2009
12:22 am
Cabravesfan – That’s 7 million a year for 6 years. Tex got what? $25million for 7 years? I was stunned it was so low, but then it’s not MLB money.
Tom O'Hawke
April 25th, 2009
12:22 am
N Nine …. It’s not the hot dogs that are a problem. Cigarettes are expensive! And you can’t believe how fast she laps a beer down. Best thing is get the dog drunk before we take her to the game. She’ll be passed out by the 4th.
cabravesfan
April 25th, 2009
12:24 am
keylargo-
yeah but Tex has the numbers to back up the money…Stafford has not taken a snap in the NFL…and the NFL has a hard cap…$7 million eats a big chunk of that, especially for a team that needs so much help
cabravesfan
April 25th, 2009
12:26 am
Tom O’Hawke- or we can get the dog drunk and leave her in my backyard…
Keylargo- to put the Stafford contract in another light- that garaunteed money is more then Albert Haynesworth got
Kelly Johnson
April 25th, 2009
12:27 am
Yo Yunel shut up me and you are already on the hot seat. We go another week without a hit Bobby will make us take 5 minutes of extra batting pratice in the cage. Do you want that. Just let Bill Gates express himself bro. To be honest yunel im supprised you didnt swing at that pitch that hit you.
Tom O'Hawke
April 25th, 2009
12:30 am
cabravesfan …. wow, you’re tough. What if I grow 2 more legs, and then lose one. Any better, or is it a “tail” thing.
Chop Chop
April 25th, 2009
12:30 am
I kinda felt the same way about that, DOB. Volquez quickly turned his head toward first base after hitting Escobar and uttered some sort of profanity. He wasn’t happy with himself. He didn’t stare down Yunel or anything. From the radar gun, that appeared to be the hardest fastball he threw the whole game and he just lost control of it.
Besides, if he had just walked to first, Vazquez could have given an answer. Instead, warnings were issued and nothing could be done.
cabravesfan
April 25th, 2009
12:31 am
Tom O’Hawke-
It depends on the size of the “tail”
Yunel's Frosted Tips
April 25th, 2009
12:34 am
Kelly Johnson, don’t make me bring up the pop-up in the Phillies game again from last year.
Tom O'Hawke
April 25th, 2009
12:34 am
Bear …….. I found it. DOB, I wish that you would check this out, also. Bear, BTW, I copied everything that my buddy sent to me, including the intro. One of the bloggers, told me earlier that it wasn’t released by the Staple Singers. I’ll let you and he worry about that.
Below is a link to a great piece of sound engineering. It is a composite audio/video of song whereby additional tracks were laid in by different singers and musicians from different places around the world. The finished product is tremendous!The song itself is that classic standard “Stand By Me” originally released in 1955 by The Staple Singers and released again in 1961 by the Drifters.This composite version is a real toe tapper. So turn up the speaker volume. Give it a little over a minute before you decide that you don’t like it. That’s when the next artists start to add on.
http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=2539741
keylargo
April 25th, 2009
12:38 am
Cabravesfan
Quarterbacks play an average of 10 years in the NFL. Stafford will probably get one more contract unless this one is reworked in the next few years.
It’s more money than I can comprehend, but until this year, not what a journeyman MLB pitcher who is a free agent would get.
Tom O'Hawke
April 25th, 2009
12:38 am
cabravesfan …. LOL
Kelly Johnson
April 25th, 2009
12:39 am
Yunel dont make me twitter Fidel. Ill give him your room number when we are in miami next month.
Yunel's Frosted Tips
April 25th, 2009
12:43 am
Can’t go back to Cuba now, not hitting good enough to play on Cuban team these days, would have to pick bananas and save up to build another ‘57 Chevy to float over on, and no frosted tips allowed in Communist regime.
Tom O'Hawke
April 25th, 2009
12:46 am
cabravesfan … If you would, how about checking this music video out, before you retire. I’d like your opinion. I like it a lot. Love the way it keeps building up. Plus, it’s a cool old song. If your dog is still conscious, let her check it out too. I bet she’ll think it’s a “howl”.
cabravesfan
April 25th, 2009
12:46 am
keylargo-
expect it to get reworked, or just trashed, when the CBA gets blown up in 2 years…most players that are signing multi-year deals these days do so knowing they will not see the back end of them. Smart teams are back-ending long term deals, mainly because they wont have to pay most of the money
TnBrian
April 25th, 2009
12:47 am
Jeff Brantley, I believe, said that Escobar wanted no part in charging the mound. Kinda said he’s all talk in other words. When you watch the replay, you can see where the Reds catcher wants the ball and it’s no where near Yunel. He gave a pretty big target to the pitcher. I like what Chipper said about it. You want him to cool it, but there’s apparantly a fine line with Yunel, you want some energy and fire.
Mitchell
April 25th, 2009
12:47 am
I wanted to say before I officially leave (I know you were all hoping I’d be back one last time) that we are going to beat Arroyo tomorrow cause he’s a dumb redneck tool and not worthy of being 3-0 let alone 4-0 and that we will knock him up for a bunch of runs out or nowhere and D-Lowe will blow the Reds away now that he can pitch without the sun burning directly in his face or the threat of yet another rain shortened game.
Also, I want to have Gonzo’s babies.
Okay, that’s a little weird. I grant you that. But come on, Gonzo’s the mutherf***in’ man. Those guys were afraid to swing. They were afraid to be in the batter’s box.
If we could just score runs we might actually be relatively decent.
booger1
April 25th, 2009
12:48 am
I love Chipper Jones. But…
I’m hoping this is just a case of bad relaying (as Chipper called it) on DOB’s part…
It’s one thing to be a vocal leader. It’s another to completely call out a player like that. Back your teammate up.
Jeff Francoeur said in an interview during Spring Training that he thought it’d be good for the team to get in a “fight” at the beginning of the season; show people they’re not messing around. No one got hurt, no one got ejected.
They need to do some team bulding exercises.. fall back into each others arms or somethin’. Haha… They just need some team chemistry.
Elian Gonzalez
April 25th, 2009
12:52 am
Yunel come home we misses you. Its ok to come home we have parade for you, Hold on ……………what!!!!! stop hitting me Fidel you say to get him here and I live. I didnt know we cant have parade because we have no candy in cuba…………….Ok yunel im back please come home we have cake for you.
cabravesfan
April 25th, 2009
12:54 am
Tom O’Hawke-
That video was great! Where did you find it? I can’t speak for anyplace else but there are so many great street preformers on Third Street in Santa Monica- really cool place to just hang and people watch…so much talent for the most unexpected places (the entire video was like that…really cool)
keylargo
April 25th, 2009
12:54 am
Cabravesfan – By the way, if you knew what I did this afternoon, you would send ME a ticket to LA.
I trimmed two trees without any damage to the house OR myself. I was really feeling it after that so I wired a new floodlight off the corner of the house. It worked and as of 12:50 am EDT, the house was not on fire.
A man like that can command a lot of attention!
Tom O'Hawke
April 25th, 2009
12:55 am
booger1 …. I wouldn’t mind if they just practiced the “basics” a little more.
cabravesfan
April 25th, 2009
12:56 am
keylargo-
yeah but can you do laundry? what about cooking?
Bear
April 25th, 2009
12:56 am
Got it Mr. O’Hawke. Thank you very much.
Mitchell
April 25th, 2009
12:57 am
Well if we’re going to be fighting anybody this year it better damn well be the Cubs cause they’re asking for it.
They’re a bunch of arrogant pr!@#s. This is going on three years now and I’m ready for that first game in June at the Ted. I expect in the first inning for Lowe to put a fastball in Alfonso Soriano’s kidney. I think Lowe would be good in a fight. He seems like he would know what to do, like he’s done some scrappin’. If it’s JJ or KK starting the first game against the Cubs, I’d be too nervous. They’re very delicate.
I hope it’s D-Lowe. He is a philanderer after all, he obviously knows how to mistreat people. I kid D-Lowe.
But we have to have a fight for a good reason. The Cubs offer many. Then the Marlins. Good to see the Marlins get put in their place tonight.
Tom O'Hawke
April 25th, 2009
12:57 am
You’re welcome, Mr. Bear.
keylargo
April 25th, 2009
1:01 am
Cabravesfan
A man’s gotta know his limitations.
cabravesfan
April 25th, 2009
1:02 am
keylargo-
spoken like a man
booger1
April 25th, 2009
1:05 am
Mitchell- I’m with you on the Cubs. Can’t stand them. They got another thing coming.
Hopefully Chipper won’t be ten feet away from the group next time, acting like a batboy picking up bats and balls while the rest of the team stands with Yunel (or whomever it may be).
I’m mad that I’m so mad at him… but for real?
Tom O'Hawke
April 25th, 2009
1:05 am
cabravesfan …. A friend of mine, knowing I like music, e-mailed it to me. I couldn’t get over how much I liked it. The sound quality is great. After listening to it several times yesterday (that’s when I received it), on my computer speakers, I finally hooked it up to my main system. I liked it so much, I felt compelled to share it. Unfortunately, I only know of one person that actually listened to it. I figured with an off day, the music lovers will be all over this. I suppose I could throw it up there, a few more times. What do you think?
P-Town Brave (Let Your Bobby, TP, Snitker, Chino Go)
April 25th, 2009
1:09 am
Sad to hear that unfortunately Chipper doesn’t have his own teammates back if there was a fight to be had…
Enjoy your birthday Chipper…but worry more about getting healthy than whether Yunel was in the right on the decision (besides the fact of the two players having history being overlooked)…
0 for 5 and still not healthy…here’s to hoping Infante is in the lineup at 3b tomorrow (and Prado at 2b)
Oh, and about Escobar’s reaction…I’m just happy to notice someone with the slightest bit of a pulse in that dugout!
keylargo
April 25th, 2009
1:09 am
Cabravesfan
I was out looking at washing machines just last weekend………………No, I’ve lied enough.
cabravesfan
April 25th, 2009
1:10 am
tom o’hawke-
couldn’t hurt to put it out there again- I really did like it a lot
P-Town Brave (Let Your Bobby, TP, Snitker, Chino Go)
April 25th, 2009
1:10 am
Mitchell-
No reason to harp on the Cubs…I do recall Jeff Bennett hitting Soriano with a pitch that broke his hand…that wasn’t that long ago..
Kelly Johnson
April 25th, 2009
1:12 am
Tom that is awesome I am gonna have that as my coming to bat song on Monday in ATL. Sometimes when your hitting .220 at leadoff you need people to stand by you. No but in all seriousness that is awesome love the global correlation you should share it.
cabravesfan
April 25th, 2009
1:12 am
keylargo-
“looking” and “using” are completely different things
P-Town Brave (Let Your Bobby, TP, Snitker, Chino Go)
April 25th, 2009
1:13 am
I agree w/ Booger here…
And in all reality, if this is how Chipper feels about a teammate then how do you expect all the other teammates to feel? It really could show part of why this team isn’t winning…
I mean if you’re not pulling for each other than it makes the struggle over the season that much more difficult…
Maybe I’m reading too much into the comment, maybe not…
TnBrian
April 25th, 2009
1:16 am
P-Town Brave, knock it off! Chipper has done nothing but praise Yunel since he’s been in MLB. You left out Chipper saying he doesn’t want him to lose the energy he brings on the field.
Tom O'Hawke
April 25th, 2009
1:19 am
cabravesfan … OK, thanks, I will. I would like a few more people to check it out. The first time I put it out, I had a big, ATTN: DAVE O’BRIEN, hoping that I would get his attention, and have him check it out. You know how much he likes music. But, it didn’t work.
P.S. I notice you are making an awful lot of demands, to your male suitors. Being a Braves’ fan and a fan of sports only goes so far. You better have some other redeeming qualities. … Wait a minute, didn’t you say you like beer, also? …… Disregard this whole p.s.
P-Town Brave (Let Your Bobby Go)
April 25th, 2009
1:24 am
Brian-
That almost comes off as a cop-out considering what he had said just prior to that…
I mean thats like breaking up w/ someone and then saying “but can we still be friends”
Tom O'Hawke
April 25th, 2009
1:28 am
Kelly Johnson ….. thanks, man. Hey, even in your slump, a lot of us are still “Standing By You”. However, a word to the wise. Don’t wait too long before you break out of this slump. You could find yourself lonlier than Mike Tyson at a KKK meeting.
booger1
April 25th, 2009
1:28 am
Haha!! I like the analogy, P-Town Brave.
cabravesfan
April 25th, 2009
1:29 am
Tom O’hawke- No demands, but if you want me to wait on you, I expect you to wait on me too:) I only asked Keylargo about cooking and laundry because I hate doing both so it would be nice to have someone else do that for me, but I am capable…kind of
I am difinitely more of a Pizza, beer and baseball girl- keep it simple
P-Town Brave (Let Your Bobby Go)
April 25th, 2009
1:36 am
Ok…did I miss something while I was watching the game tonight because I feel like I just stepped into an episode of Blind Date.
BravesFanLostInOhio
April 25th, 2009
1:40 am
Just got back from the game. Wow, what a strange one?! From the 2 walked in runs, to the early no-no bid, to Escobar’s explosion, to my argument with Redlegs (which is pretty unique, considering he mimes everything) it was one for the memory books. It was a beautiful night for baseball, and summer has finally arrived in Ohio.
cabravesfan
April 25th, 2009
1:41 am
P-Town
Sorry about that…late night on the blog
P-Town Brave (Let Your Bobby Go)
April 25th, 2009
1:44 am
Haha…its ok CA…not that late for you yet…and its understandable…If you talked about the Braves 24/7, you’d probably lose your mind….well, like me
P-Town Brave (Let Your Bobby Go)
April 25th, 2009
1:50 am
BFLIO-
Could be worse for you….
You could’ve had to listen to Marietta Derek and his ridiculous reference to the Axe commercial all night…
I’m hoping that at some point he finds a better commercial or at least something different so we stop hearing about stuff being DPTC every FREAKIN night!
Tom O'Hawke
April 25th, 2009
1:56 am
“I am difinitely more of a Pizza, beer and baseball girl- keep it simple”
cabravesfan, stop, you’re driving me crazy! Seriously, it (a relationship) should always be 50-50, yes?
And for everyone that listened to that music video, don’t be afraid to listen to it a few more times. I liked it right away, but the more I listened to it, the more I liked it.
David O'Brien
April 25th, 2009
2:00 am
Probably shouldn’t have eaten the four-way Skyline chili with red beans at 1:30 a.m. … but it sure was good.
And speaking of good, did you all see the Greinke highlights tonight? Oh, my. Dude was devastating.
Random
April 25th, 2009
2:02 am
Choppinmama (11:48 pm): “about the warnings, the announcers explained that if Yunel had fussed, been held back, then gone down to 1st, no warning. But it had to be issued ’cause both benches emptied.”
Okay then — he singlehandedly robbed his team of their only “safe” chance to get his back and hit the Reds’ SS an inning or two later. I hope he heard about it in the clubhouse.
cabravesfan
April 25th, 2009
2:05 am
Tom O’Hawke-
Sorry
Yes, it should always be 50-50 (or 60-40 depending on how much heavy lifting is involved…I am strong but sometimes it’s nice to get someone esle to do that- there are advantages to being a girl)
I saved the link to the video…
cabravesfan
April 25th, 2009
2:10 am
all right all, it’s past my bedtime…talk to you tomorrow!
(send good thoughts that the game isn’t blacked out here)
MFin04
April 25th, 2009
2:12 am
What are the chances that Bobby switches up the lineup tomorrow? Seems that this team can’t score any runs that aren’t gifted to them. What about putting Prado, Infante, Brandon Jones in the lineup? Maybe hitting Jordan Schafer up in the lineup…maybe 1 or 2.
Tom O'Hawke
April 25th, 2009
2:18 am
Yeah, goodnight from me too. cabravesfan, you know I was talking about the balance being 50-50, don’t you? When something requires the heavy lifting, that’s the man’s job. When the dog misses the newspaper, that’s the ….. (50-50, right?)
BrianInAlpharetta
April 25th, 2009
2:20 am
DOB: “And speaking of good, did you all see the Greinke highlights tonight? Oh, my. Dude was devastating.”
4-0 with a 0.00 ERA? Back to back complete games? Is this MLB The Show or actual games? This guy is ridiculous.
P-Town Brave (Let Your Bobby Go)
April 25th, 2009
3:24 am
Fin-
This would be my lineup tomorrow, BUT it’ll never happen…I mean this is Bobby we’re talkin about!
1) Schafer cf
Sammons c
2) Prado 2b
3) CJones 3b (simply bc we can’t afford no Mac and no Chipper)
4) Francoeur rf
5) Infante 1b
6) BJones lf
7) Escobar ss
9) Lowe p
Ted Turner
April 25th, 2009
3:46 am
1.Prado 2nd
2.Escobar SS
3.C. Jones 3rd
4.Kotchman 1st
5.Frenchy RF
6.B.Jones LF
7.Schafer CF
8.Ross C
9.Lowe P
Keith Richards
April 25th, 2009
3:47 am
Enter your comments here
Keith Richards
April 25th, 2009
3:58 am
My bluty team wood win 151 games
1.J.Beam ss
2.J.Walker 1st
3.J.Daniels CF
4.C.Royal 3rd
5.G.Goose LF
6.L.Thirteen C
7.M.Mark RF
8.G.Marnier 2nd
9.S.Adams P
BravesFanLostInOhio
April 25th, 2009
4:33 am
1. Infante LF
2. Escobar SS
3. Chipper 3B
4. Kotch 1B
5. Frenchy RF
6. KJ 2B
7. Schafer CF
8. Ross C
9. Lowe
Coach (2010 or bust)
April 25th, 2009
5:10 am
Ugly or not, a win is a win. I’ll take it.
Javier Vasquez has been if anything, consistent. Quality start after quality start. I’m eating crow. Frank Wren was right, I was wrong.
McCann to the DL, O my. This is the last thing that the Braves anemic offense needed.
The starting pitching has been and continues to be stellar. Last night the bullpen bent but didn’t break, giving up one run in three innings of work.
All in all, the pitching is there. The defense is a work in progress. All the injuries are taking an incredible toll and the offense is struggling. We are what we are, 8-8 and looking exactly like a .500 team on paper and on the field.
jon
April 25th, 2009
7:27 am
When are they going to bring Hanson up as the 5th starter? Granted he is 0-3 but his ERA is just a hair over 2.00. The Braves need him now. He has proven himself at AAA.
18 Wheels of Love
April 25th, 2009
7:40 am
Shoulda pulled the trigger on that Frenchy for Grienke deal….
…assuming there was a Frenchy for Grienke deal.
Braveheart
April 25th, 2009
7:53 am
Wow, way to get your teammate’s back there Chipper. You’re still 10 years from menopause Chipper, stop acting like a middle-aged broad. Lose a Chipper, gain a Menopauser. What’s next? 2 months on the DL while Chipper recovers from a vasectomy? Someone pull up Chipper’s skirt and find out if he lost his pecker in Hooters a decade ago.
richbrave
April 25th, 2009
8:12 am
5-4 road trip would be SWEET, but pitching can only carry you so far. The offense has got to kick in now for the BRAVES to be happy on the plane-ride home. Did I miss the news on GLAVINE? More surgery, rest, or is he on the 15 day DL? What?
David O'Brien
April 25th, 2009
8:13 am
This will be very cool, announced yesterday: Bob Dylan will team up with Willie Nelson and John Mellencamp to play at minor league baseball parks across the country this summer, beginning July 2 in Sauget, Illinois and ending in Stockton, California on August 15. The announcement was timed to coincide with next Tuesday’s release of Dylan’s new album, Together Through Life. The tour won’t include any major cities, focusing instead on smaller burgs like Dayton, Ohio and South Bend, Indiana.
Name
April 25th, 2009
8:16 am
http://www.doublepitstochesty.com
David O'Brien
April 25th, 2009
8:17 am
Richbrave, there is no new news on Glavine, as I said last night after I asked about it yesterday: Tuesday is the two-week point from when he was told to rest for that long. That’s when he planned to evaluate where he was at, if there had been improvement, etc.
richbrave
April 25th, 2009
8:18 am
jon:
Geeze you are a quick study. Three starts does not necessarily equate to a call-up even though they were good ones. Besides JoJO needs to pitch himself out of ATLANTA first. So far they’ve been able to work around GLAVINE’s absence. I think REYES gets his final shot here and HANSON gets another start in GWINNETT at least before he motors over to downtown.
Run Heap Run
April 25th, 2009
8:19 am
Mitchell @ 12:47 – totally agree with you on Gonzo. When he is on he is on … and I love it.
DOB, Do you know if Mac has considered seeing other specialists with that eye thing? Eye problems can be caused by so many things…certain medications, allergies, diabetes, neurological problems…
As far as what Chipper said about Yunel…eh I don’t see the big deal. Chipper is nothing if he’s not honest (in his quotes to the media anyway) and while I personally love baseball fights as a spectator I think all Braves fans will agree it’s not very “Bobby ball”, which is all Chipper knows, so it doesn’t surprise me that he frowns upon it. I agree that he should have had his teammates back but..maybe he thought he was talking off the record again.
richbrave
April 25th, 2009
8:20 am
Thanks DAVE.
David O'Brien
April 25th, 2009
8:22 am
18 Wheels: There was NO Greinke-for-Francoeur deal, period. End of story, dude. Sorry to disappoint, but both GMs shot that rumor to he … uh, to heck and back.
Dayton Moore was particularly emphatic in stating that contrary to all the rumors this fall/winter, he and Frank Wren had not once discussed any deal involving Francoeur. And the Royals weren’t talking about trading Greinke for anyone this winter.
richbrave
April 25th, 2009
8:24 am
run heap run:
Agree on McCANN. And I don’t think CHIPPER cares one way or the other. He just says what he feels. What you see is what you get.
David O'Brien
April 25th, 2009
8:25 am
this won’t stop at least two people from asking in the next hour, but here goes anyway: No news yet on McCann, nor do I anticipate any until we get to the ballpark at around 10 a.m.
Braveheart
April 25th, 2009
8:27 am
I agree that he should have had his teammates back but..maybe he thought he was talking off the record again (RHR)
Depends if there is any backlash, doesn’t it? If so, then, of course, Chipper will act like it’s all the fault of DOB and Bowman. When convenient to do so, he’s gotten very Smoltz-ian in blaming the bulldog reporters for inserting his own bunioned foot in mouth
How come Chipper never had a similar comment on Hudson acting like a retard towards DOB?
indybrave
April 25th, 2009
8:28 am
DOB,
Just curious and I could be misremembering. I heard a story about Maddux getting LASIK and pitching the next day. I know after researching the procedure for myself that you have a couple of days of extreme light sensitivity but I wouldn’t think that would warrant a trip to the DL. Is this mostly precautionary since this occured early in the season?
David O'Brien
April 25th, 2009
8:31 am
Run Heap Run: McCann is supposed to see another specialist in Atlanta when team gets home. But the DL thing sounded like it was already a done deal, or very close to being one. And Mac himself sounded, gave every indication, that he was headed for Lasik surgery. Of course, doctor could see him Monday and say, “You absolutely don’t need to have laser surgery again right now, not until after season, because this dryness is caused by something not related to that….”
But don’t count on that.
Runnin
April 25th, 2009
8:36 am
Ｂｒａｖｅｈｅａｒｔ－”Wow, way to get your teammate’s back there Chipper. You’re still 10 years from menopause Chipper, stop acting like a middle-aged broad. Lose a Chipper, gain a Menopauser. What’s next? 2 months on the DL while Chipper recovers from a vasectomy? Someone pull up Chipper’s skirt and find out if he lost his pecker in Hooters a decade ago.”
I concur completely. If Chipper wants Yunel to have a little more restraint on his emotions, Chipper should have a little more on his mouth. Everyday I log on to the game I fully expect to see Chipper out of the lineup with a new boo boo to show everyone.
He should sleep every night in a tub of Ben Gay.
David O'Brien
April 25th, 2009
8:38 am
Just watched highlights again of Lincecum vs. D-backs last night. Utter dominance.
In his last two starts against them, he has 25 strikeouts with one walk in 18 innings.
Braveheart
April 25th, 2009
8:42 am
And I don’t think CHIPPER cares one way or the other. He just says what he feels. What you see is what you get. (RICHBRAVE)
That’s the image he wants presented. But he acted like a weasel after he sh!t on Toronto, and blamed the reporters like Smoltz blamed the reporters for his fight with Chipper two years ago or like how Smoltz blamed the incompetency of some rookie agent early this offseason for rumors being leaked he was outta here. Chipper will comment on Yunel acting like a macho fool towards Volzquez, but won’t comment on Hudson acting like a macho fool towards DOB. Seems to me that he doesn’t really have the courage of his convictions. It’s easy to blame the reporters when you cause an international incident. It’s easy to pick on whipping boys like Escobar or Frenchy, but it takes courage and a true leader to say the same thing about a fellow vet acting the fool.
Coach (2010 or bust)
April 25th, 2009
8:51 am
Apparently, our Braves aren’t missing what they don’t have.
There have been 343 stolen bases in 450 attempts among all thirty teams. That’s a .762 success rate and 11.43 per team.
Our Braves have swiped three out of five bases which is dead last ( .600 success rate) and are scoring 4.125 runs per game ( Brutal ).
Keeping up with the Joneses? I think not. O yea, Josh Anderson has swiped 4 bags and he’s hitting .308 in part time duty.
Run Heap Run
April 25th, 2009
8:55 am
I missed the Hudson DOB fight or whatever it was that people constantly refer to. When was this and what happened? I’ve been a faithful reader for a couple years but I have no idea what this is about. Guess it happened when I just read the blog but not the comments. ?
Run Heap Run
April 25th, 2009
8:57 am
And can someone explain to me the love affair with Josh Anderson? Because I definitely do not get it. I look at him and see a minor league player who lucked upon a major league job.
indybrave
April 25th, 2009
8:58 am
Can’t wait to go see the Bravos today. Weather will be great. The game should only last about an hour and a half with Lowe and Arroyo pitching.
richbrave
April 25th, 2009
9:01 am
BRAVEHEART:
Who knows what evil lurks in the hearts of man? The “SHADOW” knows.
Coach (2010 or bust)
April 25th, 2009
9:02 am
Hey Heap, Josh Anderson is definitely a big league player, otherwise he wouldn’t be in the majors. But, the speedy lead off man isn’t an everyday player. The way that the Tigers are utilizing Anderson right now is perfect due to the fact that he is a solid fourth outfielder.
Efrim
April 25th, 2009
9:10 am
I have been very impressed with Vasquez, folks. He adds to the Braves staff what they haven’t had in years, strikeouts. But I guess people will continue to knock Javy, just like they knock Kelly Johnson.
Mitchell
April 25th, 2009
9:12 am
I have to say that even though we can’t score runs that was an incredible game last night.
I honestly can’t believe we won it. I kept waiting for something bad to happen. Fortunately there are teams out there who are capable of sucking it up even worse than us.
It would be nice if our starters could start going a little bit longer though. That would be nice.
I hold it to be true that every game does count. We should have gotten a damn hit against the Nationals on Wednesday. That’s just a game we should have won. But as we progress I’m more appreciative of the five games we won to start the season with. Otherwise we might be a lot worse shape. We just have to hang in there until we can stop having our best players either suck or not play for long stretches of time.
There might be some hope somewhere down the line of us not being terrible.
Braveheart
April 25th, 2009
9:19 am
Efrim, it’s awfully hard not to love a 2.62 ERA to go along with 6 IP a start, 12.6 K9, 4.86 K/BB, 1.77 FIP and a really low HR9 rate. Friggin’ awesome! Pretty damn great to have 3 starters with the ability to give you at least 6 every night with an ERA under 3.50.
Coach (2010 or bust)
April 25th, 2009
9:23 am
OK, I’ll spit out some good news and shut the hell up.
Our bullpen is on pace to throw 466 innings which is well off the record 554 they tossed in 2008.
And the rotation is on track for about 952 innings which is up from 886 last season.
Runnin
April 25th, 2009
9:24 am
I likey Mikey Gonzolez. There is not one ounce of doubt in him. A lesser competitor might’ve shown some weakness with Soriano poised to take over the closer role. Wrong.
Efrim
April 25th, 2009
9:38 am
Braveheart, Imagine when Hanson is in the rotation too. Not saying he will dominate when he steps on the mound everytime, but he’ll miss bats. Braves just need to hit. They’ll be fine if they can do that.
And some good luck would be nice too. I know there is no stat to prove it, but I think teams centered around preventing runs have a better chance of having the ball roll their way. I can’t prove that. Just sayin.
Braveheart
April 25th, 2009
9:41 am
I know there is no stat to prove it, but I think teams centered around preventing runs have a better chance of having the ball roll their way. I can’t prove that. Just sayin. (efrim)
I agree with that
Eric from MO
April 25th, 2009
9:46 am
18 Wheels of Love
April 25th, 2009
7:40 am
Shoulda pulled the trigger on that Frenchy for Grienke deal….
…assuming there was a Frenchy for Grienke deal.
There was no deal. That was just bloggers being dumb. Why would the Royals had done that?
Braveheart
April 25th, 2009
9:54 am
Runnin’, I’m not questioning Chipper’s desire to be out there. I’m just questioning his leadership. Escobar doesn’t like getting hurt as much as Chipper. I gotta imagine Escobar is pretty darn tired of getting nicked up all the time on plays at second, sliding and getting hit with pitches. So, he threw a bit of a tantrum about it. Escobar’s hissy fit isn’t much different than the time or two Chipper got hurt and got all angry about it and made reporters wait around for far too long because he was too angry about getting hurt again to come out and talk about it. That wasn’t right either, but he wouldn’t have appreciated any teammate publicly saying anything about it, as evidenced by the fact that the one time someone did call him out (Smoltz), he threw another hissy fit.
Eric from MO
April 25th, 2009
9:55 am
Would everyone get over what Chipper said. He was right. End of story. As for the Hudson thing, you know the first step in answering a question? You have to be asked the question. Do any of you know for a fact that a reporter asked Chipper about the Hudson and DOB thing? If not there is your answer. You cant answer something that was never asked. If I recall correctly Chipper was in the WBC and wasnt around the Braves camp. So probably no one ever asked him about it.
Eric from MO
April 25th, 2009
9:57 am
Coach just a couple days ago Anderson was batting over .330. His average is droping quickly. By the way what is his OBP?
Eric from MO
April 25th, 2009
10:00 am
Its crazy, first people complain because we dont take enough pitches and draw enough walks. Now people complain because we only won because of the walks. I just dont get it.
CCjacket
April 25th, 2009
10:00 am
DOB,
despite the sarcasm-laden comments, I do appreciate that you are making the effort; i.e., language.
Really, I do.
Eric from MO
April 25th, 2009
10:04 am
Mitchell We should have gotten a damn hit against the Nationals on Wednesday. That’s just a game we should have won.
Um we did win that one. Remember we got a loaded bases walk in the ninth to win 1-0.
Original Jon
April 25th, 2009
10:11 am
You know, I am really liking Javier Vazquez. He has an easy delivery, doesnt seem to exert himself too much and he strikes a lot of guys out. He looked good last night. Not gonna be fun without our All Star catcher for 2 weeks, but would rather lose him now at the beginning of the season than in a pennant race in August/September. Hope this fixes the problem.
And man, Greinke was DOMINATING. Guy has flat out become one heck of a pitcher.
DirtyDawg
April 25th, 2009
10:11 am
I’m not at all sure that the Braves are handling Escobar correctly. Yes the kid does some things that annoy the staid, laid-back. Bobby Cox clubhouse, but to publicly criticize him for his reaction to the shot to the ribs – particularly since he’s generally the first one the opposing pitcher goes after – and without Mr. Hanson on the roster realizes that none of the other pitchers on the staff will protect him. I think Chipper should have said something like ‘I can understand why Yunel reacted the way did. After all he seems to get plunked more than the rest of us. The fact is that the reason they do it is because they know he’ll be bothered by it, that’s why he needs to not get mad, but get even.’
Eric from MO
April 25th, 2009
10:19 am
This may have been said but I dont feel like reading through 12 pages of blog, how long will McCann be out if he has the lasik eye surgery? I know I read that a second one would be more serious and would require more time to heal.
Original Jon
April 25th, 2009
10:22 am
Eric, I am sure he would be placed on the 15 day DL. From what I have heard, it doesnt normally take that long to recover from Lasik. Not sure when it will be retroactive to thought.
Eric from MO
April 25th, 2009
10:24 am
Dirty he get plunked more than anyone else is because he crowds the plate more than anyone else. Which isnt bad, just expect to a pitch to get away everyonce in awhile. If your crowding the plate their is a better chance your going to get hit. Just expect it and take your base. I know it aint the same but I crowded the plate when I was in high school. All four years I lead my team in getting hit by pitches but I never reacted, I took my base and to get my revenge I would normally steal 2nd…lead my team in stolen bases all 4 years too!
Eric from MO
April 25th, 2009
10:26 am
Original if it only takes a couple of weeks why have they waited so long? I understand that something like yours eyesight you dont take lightly, but if your having problem seeing I would think you would want to take care of that.
Lew
April 25th, 2009
10:28 am
Sorry, but I disagree on this one. How many times has Yunel pitched a fit after getting hit by a pitch? Just like Chipper said-If you hang over the plate, expect to get hit. Take your $%^$#*& base and be done with it. It doesn’t need to be made into an emotional incident every &*(%$&#@ time. Maybe Yunel needs to gain some emotional maturity. He’s not a rookie any longer.
Lew
April 25th, 2009
10:33 am
Not to mention Yunel’s proclivity for reacting adversely to Umpire’s calls. It’s all part and parcel of the maturity thing and hanging his emotions on his sleeve. Fire and drive are good things in a player, but it all looks like nothing more than petulance in Yunel’s case. I5’s not wining him any friends and he’s not going to get the benefit of the doubt on calls if it continues. All he’s doing is giving himself a bad reputation.
Braveheart
April 25th, 2009
10:34 am
Yunel is an overreactor like Daniel Day Lewis is an overactor
Nick in PA
April 25th, 2009
10:40 am
DOB,
How’s Chipper feeling, injury wise?
Will he be given 1 of these next 2 games off?