Hey, it’s Carroll here. Just back to the ol’ Braves beat from the NFL draft….which I have to say, is a lot more fun to cover than the baseball draft. Talked to two guys yesterday (Peria Jerry and William Moore) who will actually play next year.
It’s nice not having to be all patient and everything. And the food wasn’t half bad either – my goodness. Thanks Falcons.
OK, so back over here to the small stitched ball. And wondering what to blog about this lazy Monday morning….This Monday morning, April 27….OK, got it.
We’re down to three more games in April. The Braves are 9-9. One way or another after three games with the Cardinals, we’re going to have a crooked number here. So how big of a deal is it to have a winning April?
They say you can’t win the division in April but you can lose it. These numbers for the Braves seem to bear that out: only four times in the last 18 years have the Braves had a losing April and still made it to the playoffs.
2002: 12-15
2001: 12-14
1993: 12-13
1991: 8-10
Now, 1991 and 1993 were special, special seasons. And in 2001 and 2002, the Braves still had Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine and John Smoltz dealing – well, not Smoltz in 2000 because of Tommy John, but they had the pitching to bounce back.
The Braves can hope they’ve got more of the same in this year’s case with Derek Lowe, Jair Jurrjens and Javier Vazquez. They’re proving to be quite the threesome. But it’s looking like Kenshin Kawakami might be the weak link.
I thought it was interesting what David Ross said in DOB’s story after yesterday’s game, that he wanted Kawakami to pitch around Jay Bruce in his first at-bat, but Kawakami put one over the plate that Bruce hit out. And he said that it might have been an issue with the language.
Regardless, Kawakami has a 7.06 ERA in four starts. Jo-Jo Reyes has a 7.94 ERA after one start and you have to figure that’ll lower, but the other three starters – Jurrjens, Lowe and Vazquez – have a combined ERA of 2.41.
Anyway, it will be no small task to take two out of three from the Cardinals this series and get a winning April. The Cardinals come to Atlanta leading the NL Central at 13-6. The three starters they have going in this series – Joel Pineiro, Kyle Lohse, and Adam Wainwright – are a combined 8-0.
And of course there’s Albert Pujols who is leading the league in homers (7) and RBIs (25).
The Cardinals lead the National League in batting average (.299), runs scored (115), slugging percentage (.488) and OPS (.868).
GWINNETT BRAVES
So it’s a lovely ballpark. They’ve got a great starting pitching staff. Where is the love with the Gwinnett Braves? They are 6-12 on the season after winning only their second home game yesterday. They went 2-8 on their first ever homestand.
The pitching staff is holding its own. Gwinnett is ranked third in the International League with a 3.29 ERA behind Norfolk (2.30) and Durham (2.61).
But they scored only 3.3 runs a game over the homestand, and they’ve been shut out three times already this season.
Brandon Jones was one of their hottest hitters (.308) and he’s up with Atlanta. That leaves a bunch of struggling outfielders: Gregor Blanco is hitting .197 (14-for-71), newcomer Brian Barton is still trying to find his rhythm, he’s hitting .158 (he’s 3-for-19) and right fielder Reid Gorecki is hitting .200 (11-for-55).
And hey a bright spot, reliever Mariano Gomez is third in the International League with a 1.15 ERA. He’s pitched in seven games, allowing only two earned runs in 15 2/3 innings. And Kris Medlen continues to hold his own, going 2-0 with a 2.04 ERA in four games, and three starts.
Mr. Tommy Hanson has become Mr. Hard Luck. He’s 0-3 in four starts despite a 2.18 ERA (five earned runs in 20 2/3 innings). He’s struck out 29 in his 20 2/3 innings, and he leads the International League in that category.
Charlie Morton pitches tonight on the road against Norfolk. He’s 1-1 with a 6.43 ERA.
UPDATES TO COME:
Today we should get some more details on what happened with Brian McCann’s visit to the eye specialist and maybe Glavine is ready to update us on how his shoulder is feeling.
It’ll be two weeks since his visit to Dr. James Andrews tomorrow, and Glavine has said if he doesn’t see improvement in that time, it might be time to consider retirement. If he has, then it’s time to go back to work on his rehab. I’ll keep you posted.
1,495 comments Add your comment
Carroll Rogers
April 27th, 2009
12:30 pm
Oh, and i also meant to point out on KK that the Braves were thinking it might help him when the weather warms up because his curveball is his big weapon and it’s harder to grip and get a good feel in the cold weather. Course that couldn’t have been to blame for yesterday since it was in the 80s in Cincy.
JasonInFL (Formerly ME)
April 27th, 2009
12:33 pm
I think KK will be better than he has been, but not as good as the Braves were anticipating. But, to be honest; Tommy H will be up some time this year. I think he is already better than KK, so by the end of the year; KK will be our number 5. He will be an over priced #5, but better than what most teams have.
Doc Holiday
April 27th, 2009
12:33 pm
Hope Cox has learned from the past and tries to pitch around Pujols because if not…….I predict some 2-3 HR by the guy this series and some 6 RBI. Whatever you do, dont let pujols be the one that beats you.
Wayne in Utah
April 27th, 2009
12:35 pm
My local (Utah) sports page says the it’s the Braves vs the Cards on ESPN tonight. Does that get blocked out in ATL???
I am not going to have too many games I can actually see this year, so this is exciting.
DAP
April 27th, 2009
12:35 pm
efrim (from the last blog) I’m not sure they will be going after a high priced corner outfielder. Jason Heyward is in LF/RF late 2010, starting 2011.
i differ a little bit on this one. i personally think we are going to have both kelly and escobar at their respective positions at least until they hit free agency.
the offensive focal points of our lineup are chipper and mccann, so fart of what wren needed to do, was have very solid backups from those positions. he did that this year by getting ross and locking up infante for two years. prado is also under team control for awhile, i think. so that part is covered.
i also think that unless kotchman does a face plant, he will beat first, because he is inexpensive, plays awesome defense and does his part offensively. plus, free man is on the way.
honestly, outfield is where i expect this team to try and get better. francouer is only a couple of years away from free agency, and i dont think the braves will let heyward coming up prevent them from getting someone for left field, because it could be next year, or it could be 2011 or farther down the road (probably not, but maybe). i dont think they will hurt the team just to wait on heyward. they will improve the team, and cross that bridge when they get there.
i dont think they will sign someone for a long contract, but i would look for them to trade for someone who has a couple of years left or maybe even just one more year.
but, i wouldnt rule out trying to sign someone, either.
Jeff321
April 27th, 2009
12:38 pm
Wayne – It gets blacked out (they run ESPN News) in Atlanta/St.Louis.
brAves Sucios
April 27th, 2009
12:39 pm
Here’s hoping for some good news from Glav. Go Braves!
Random
April 27th, 2009
12:40 pm
MuFfin: “Point is Schafer is the catalyst to our offense”
R: “Schafer has a combination total RBI and Runs Scored of 13, lower than any other regular starter except for Kotchman (10 for him). KJ has 18. . . .You call that [Schafer] a ‘catalyst’?
”
MFin04 (12:06 pm): “You see a lot of guys in the 8th spot with a ton of RBIs and Runs Scored”
What’s your point?
And (again) how exactly is Schafer an offensive “catalyst” (whatever that means)?
Jeff321
April 27th, 2009
12:41 pm
Carroll Rogers – Can you get an in depth interview with Terry Pendleton?
cphizzle
April 27th, 2009
12:41 pm
so does that mean i will be in the dark here in alabama
Blair
April 27th, 2009
12:42 pm
I think Kawakami has really good stuff, and it looks like he is pressing to me. He seems to be trying too hard, trying to be too fine. Seriously, for a guy that was hailed for his control…we certainly have not seen that out of him thus far. Walks. HBPs. And fastballs up in the zone over the middle of the plate….let’s just say he is struggling with his control.
I wouldn’t attribute that to an adjustment period. I do think he trying to do too much. He needs to settle in a little bit. And it would help if the lineup would get out there and throw up some runs for him. Give him some confidence…
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
12:44 pm
Yeah Wayne, we’ll be seeing that game on Peachtree “locally”.
Blair
April 27th, 2009
12:44 pm
Oh and here is your obligatory “why can’t we see Carroll’s picture” entry into the old blogospehre.
DAP
April 27th, 2009
12:44 pm
gollee, my post was typed very poorly. hopefully it was understood.
Sirmonator
April 27th, 2009
12:44 pm
I think that in the end, the starting pitching will be just fine. What bothers me is Bobby’s unwillingness to play Martin Prado at second on a consistent basis…For one, it would add another righty into a line-up that primarily consists of lefties. If the excuse is being made that Prado is not a typical leadoff hitter, then my response would be “Is Kelly Johnson a typical leadoff hitter?” Kelly may be fast, but if you can’t get on base what is the difference? Anyway, I’ve loved watching Prado for a couple of years now and just think he looks like exactly what the braves need, a gritty, tough ballplayer who understands how to play the game. I think he should get more of an opportunity!
monty
April 27th, 2009
12:44 pm
Did anyone see the pitch that Bruce hit out yesterday? It would have been a great pitchout, shoulder high fastball that may have gotten the outside part of the plate. Wind blowing out to left and it barely cleared the fence. Easy out in Atlanta. It’s not like he hung a slider over the middle, dude just hit what would have been called a ball-not even a close pitch for a HR. WHat can you say?
Jeff321
April 27th, 2009
12:44 pm
so does that mean i will be in the dark here in alabama
I’m not sure about that one. I guess it depends if your in the Braves blackout area or not.
You can go to the bottom of this page and enter your zip code for that info.
http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/subscriptions/index.jsp
Wayne in Utah
April 27th, 2009
12:44 pm
Jeff
That stinks for you guys. For a couple of bucks, maybe I can do color commentary?
Blair
April 27th, 2009
12:46 pm
Monty: I’m not sure that ball hit by Bruce yesterday is out anywhere else in baseball. Really tough luck for KK there. That thing was a sky-pop that got the wind and barely carried out.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
12:46 pm
In this hard Division 9Second Best In Baseball it is imperative to get off to a good start in April…And We should be at least 3 games over .500. Those games that we should’ve won but lost to Washington and Pittsburgh are really gonna bite us in the A..s come September…With our division combined with the fact that the schedule isn’t going to be a cakewalk in May and June, we gotta get out of April with a better than .500 record…
With that in mind, This team better get their A..ss’s Serious and come out Playing For real against the Cards and Mets…
If we come out playing like a AAA team (Inept Defense, Inept Baserunning skills, Overaggressiveness at the Plate, etc) we are gonna get our As..es Handed to us each and every night…
Now Lets beat the Crap out of the Cardinal, I can’t Stand the Fck…g Cards…!
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
12:46 pm
Schafer will score more runs in the leadoff spot then anyone on this team period. He will be able to draw walks eventually….and he can use his speed to get on base. Schafer has a higher average and higher OBP than KJ. Why not try him in the one spot where he can score runs. This team can’t score runs unless we hit a miracle homerun or the other team walks 4 straight batters (not sure which is more likely at this rate). That there is the definition of a catalyst.
Jeff321
April 27th, 2009
12:48 pm
Wayne – I live in Florida and only get blacked out for Rays/Marlins games. (Which I get on FSN Florida and Sun Sports.)
That said, I’ll be watching it on MLB Premium tonight.
Carroll Rogers
April 27th, 2009
12:48 pm
Jeff321 what do you want to know? I’m sure today I’ll be busy trying to gather the news of the day, but I talk to TP most every day by the batting cage. Just wondering what it is you’re after.
cphizzle
April 27th, 2009
12:48 pm
and survey says…i wil be tuned into jim and don tonight, appreciate it jeff
Blair
April 27th, 2009
12:50 pm
Go ahead and throw me into move Jordan to leadoff camp. Not sure I want to do it for him as bad as I want to do it for Kelly Johnson. He hits better down in the order where he can be aggressive and drive in runs. The kid is going to have ups-and-downs all year, but he can’t steal bags and change games at the bottom of the order. This is one area where Joe Morgan was absolutely on target. If we’re going to be successful as an offense, it will be with Schafer in the leadoff spot.
Rock On.......
April 27th, 2009
12:51 pm
Knowitall…..you posted from the last blog–What does Gwinnett having a bad team have to do with Hanson’s ability to pitch past the 5th inning? “The team” isn’t the cause of him throwing 100 pitches through 5 innings.
Oh really? Gee now there is a new one. You might want to add “don’t quite” to your blog name my friend.
Sethual Healing
April 27th, 2009
12:51 pm
Carol, how is Hudson healing up?
Random
April 27th, 2009
12:53 pm
Carroll Rogers: “We’re down to three more games in April. The Braves are 9-9. One way or another after three games with the Cardinals, we’re going to have a crooked number here.”
CR, all numerals are crooked with the exception of 1 and 0. The only way the Braves will have a crooked number record for April is if they sweep (12-9) or get swept (9-12).
If they split the series, we’ll be either 11-10 or 10-11 — no crooked numbers there?
PS: You’re welcome (in advance).
Rock On.......
April 27th, 2009
12:53 pm
Tomahawkin….don’t hold back, tell us how you really feel.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
12:53 pm
Monty – yeh the first pitch Bruce hit out…was ridiculous, looked like something Frenchy used to K on.
Tomahawkin – I agree completely. With the way our offense is scoring runs, we cant give away bases/outs/runs/etc. And if we don’t beat the Cards and the Mets…we don’t deserve to make the playoffs period. We have to win games in order to make the playoffs…that’s the bottom line. (And yes the Cardinals are for real…we are going to need to score some runs!)
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
12:55 pm
“This is one area where Joe Morgan was absolutely on target. If we’re going to be successful as an offense, it will be with Schafer in the leadoff spot.”
I will Co-sign Onto That, We need someone in the Leadoff slot that is capabale of stealing 20-25 bases, especially if Schafer is Supposed to be compared to Grady Sizemore. Move KJ down to the 6th or 7th Slot, and With Bobby Stubborness he probably won’t to it til August…Like he did With A. Jones a couple of years ago…
Feast or Famine Offense, let’s see which one shows up tonight…
I think **Coach** Stated it in a previous blog that this is the slowest braves team we’ve seen…
Jeff321
April 27th, 2009
12:55 pm
Carroll Rogers
I don’t really want to rattle off a bunch of “gotcha” questions for TP. Basically, was just looking along the lines of a feature piece with about 30 quotes from him on all aspects of this team and his home life. (Life on the road, what does he see himself doing in 2-5 years, etc.)
braves4ever
April 27th, 2009
12:56 pm
Wayne in Utah , you could do a much better job of color or anything than the current TV guys, I personally watch TV and listen to Jim and Don do the radio show , its great.
George
April 27th, 2009
12:56 pm
**THIS IS OFF THE SUBJECT BUT I HOPE YOU ARE LIKE ME IN THAT I AM TIRED OF WATCHING THE ALL-STAR GAME WITH ONLY ONE OR TWO ATLANTA BRAVES PLAYERS… IF EVERYONE WILL COMMIT TO VOTING ATLEAST THE MAXIMUM 25 TIMES A DAY UNTIL JULY AND WE CAN GET 1000 PEOPLE TO DO IT THAT WILL BE 25,000 VOTES PER DAY… COME ON BRAVES FANS LETS GET OUR BOYS TO THE GAME SO WE CAN ENJOY IT MORE…**
Willy Wally
April 27th, 2009
12:56 pm
I was against Abreu, Dunn, and Ibanez during the offseason, but it’s looking like that $11 million spent on Kawakami, Anderson and Glavine would’ve been better spent on any one of those three plus Ohman.
AndyC
April 27th, 2009
12:57 pm
Carroll, do you think Bobby will move Schafer to leadoff? KJ has struggled and he has always been more comfortable hitting lower in the order. Last year he hit .303 7th and .405 8th. In 2007 he hit .377 7th and .297 8th. I know Schafer strikes out a lot. But he might provide a spark at the top of the lineup.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
12:57 pm
—Rock On—
You will know exactly how I feel once the game is on-going…I plan to be in Full effect mode when The game starts….I get Hyped up when we play the cards because I know a bunch of bandwagon Cardinals fans from College…
So I plan to get tuned up off some Bud Ice and im gonna go all out once the game starts…!
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
12:58 pm
Random that’s funny…I was kinda thinking the same thing. When all is said and done…Tomahawkin is right…it very well could be 9-12 if we dont get our butts in gear. SWITCH THE LINEUP UP!. I dont even care who bats where.
monty
April 27th, 2009
12:59 pm
I don’t know, is it just me, or is anyone else rubbed the wrong way by MS. Rogers putting KK’s pitcher and asking the question in the Headline “Is he the weakest link?” It’s perfectly fine to discuss it in the blog but to post it as a headline, IMHO isn’t very classy.
Todo
April 27th, 2009
12:59 pm
Carroll,
Ask TP who he thinks is a better overall hitter for this team, KJ or Prado. Then ask him why KJ peaks and valley’s so damn much….thanks.
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
1:01 pm
so does that mean i will be in the dark here in alabama
Do you have Peachtree TV? I’m here in alabama and I do, no in the darkness for me!
Gummy Bears...Bouncing here and there and everywhere....THEY ARE THE GUMMY BEARS!!!!
April 27th, 2009
1:02 pm
When is Hanson coming to replace KK?
Carroll Rogers
April 27th, 2009
1:02 pm
Random, I’m not sure how they’d split a three-game series. I just meant they wouldn’t be .500 at the end of the month at 9-9 with three games to play.
Jeff321, not a bad idea. Though I did one of those in Gwinnett a couple years back. But maybe for an off day story at some point. But it won’t be today. Sorry.
AndyC, eventually? yeah. Today? No.
Tomas
April 27th, 2009
1:02 pm
Royals DFA’d Branyan Peña, maybe the Braves could get him back but not to the big league roster.
I think Kawakami will be a good pitcher, he just hasn’t been able to adjust. From what I’ve seen, at the start of games he is a bit wild, but then is able to settle in, and when he gets tired he starts making mistakes and he gets hammered. Let’s see how his next start goes against Houston.
Eware
April 27th, 2009
1:02 pm
Tomahawkin, careful with the Bud Ice. I tend not to drink anything with the slogan, “Man, now that’s a hangover.”
cphizzle
April 27th, 2009
1:03 pm
RHR you have peachtree? and how is that?
Sethual Healing
April 27th, 2009
1:05 pm
The thing about hitting lead off is that it requires a different mentality. Anyone playing on in the majors knows this. There is a big strategic difference between hitting 8th and hitting lead off.
We can’t predict how Schafer will do in the 1 spot based on how he did in the 7 and 8 spots. If that were an indicator, Kelly Johnson would be hitting in the mid-.300s (he hits so well late in the order). Schafer deserves a chance. His speed is so worthless in the 8 spot!
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
1:05 pm
By the way…if you do the All Star voting…it remembers your votes…so you just need to resend it 25 times. I got my 25 votes in.
Heavy Medlen
April 27th, 2009
1:06 pm
CR…
any word on if Cody Ross is getting the start again today?
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
1:06 pm
Well I have Direct TV but the local cable company charter has it as well. It’s Braves ONLY on Peachtree, so technically I don’t “have” PTV…except for when the Braves are on, which is the only thing they show I’d be interested in anyway.
Random
April 27th, 2009
1:06 pm
MFin04 (12:46 pm): “Schafer will score more runs in the leadoff spot then anyone on this team period.”
Agreed — eventually.
Just not yet — be patient. Cox is.
Carroll Rogers
April 27th, 2009
1:07 pm
Todo, if you’re a coach, why the heck are you going to answer that question? Sometimes you guys need to use your head for more than a hat rack.
Monty, I did not write that headline, and I’m with you that it’s questionable. I know what our web gurus are doing though. They’re trying to get hits. I guess I have to just suck it up and bear it, but that wasn’t my call. My headline was the one I put down on the blog list about April.
Jeff321
April 27th, 2009
1:07 pm
Carroll Rogers – Thanks for taking it under consideration.
Macon Braves (RIP)
April 27th, 2009
1:09 pm
Sethual Healing– If you look at his stats this year his average is up, slugging is up, his Ks are down.
Agree on those stats being up, wouldn’t that be just as good, if not better, at 6 in the lineup. Where hopefully there are guys on in front of him so he can be a run producer. As I said earlier, I see Escobar as more of a run producer than Kotchman, and you want your run producers in the middle of the lineup, not at the top.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
1:09 pm
Everyone Keep in mind that we should be at least 12-6, I give a Big Shout-out to our Inconsistant offense costing our starters wins…And Another Shout-out to Our Lovely Blowpen for that 10 day stretch where the Mantra was “No lead is safe” when The Blowpen came in…
Looking into May we have 2 series with the Mets. One with Philly, One With Florida, One Series With the Hot Torontoans, and 2 Series With Arizona…
It’s something about games with Arizona…Is It Me or Has Arizona Always Played the Braves Tough ever Since Randy Johnson threw That Perfect Game 5 years Ago…?
So May isn’t gonna be a walk in the Park…That’s why it’s imperative that we Go-All-Out against the Cardinals…
Carroll Rogers
April 27th, 2009
1:10 pm
Heavy Medlen, you trying to scare me. I called David Ross, David Ross, didn’t I?
Sethual Healing wants to know how Huddy is healing? I’d say Sethually but that might sound bad.
Macon Braves (RIP)
April 27th, 2009
1:10 pm
MFin04– Nope, no more Macon Whoopie.
They tried another independent hockey team a couple of years ago, but that didn’t last either.
Macon Braves (RIP)
April 27th, 2009
1:13 pm
Carroll— Agree completely on Breaking Bad, fabulous show! Have to thank DOB for steering me to check it out, loved it since the first show I watched. Now have to wait to catch the earlier ones that I missed on rerun or maybe even will order the box set if it’s out.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
1:13 pm
—Eware—
I made The Mistake a couple of months ago drinking about 10 Bud-Ice Longnecks at a mini-house party that we had at our house before going to a Bachelor Party…At the Party we started doing Tequila shots…Combine Those 2 in one night equals a Hangover from hell…
Heavy Medlen
April 27th, 2009
1:15 pm
CR….
yeah, thats my fault. i interchange them all time time I don’t know why. The question was for fantasy baseball purposes. Let me try again.
CR…
do you know already, by any chance, if DAVID Ross is getting the start again tonight?
cphizzle
April 27th, 2009
1:16 pm
oh i gotcha…well its been well documented on this here blog that i have dish and for some unknown reason they cant seem to strike a deal with the peachtree very very frustrating
Mac
April 27th, 2009
1:16 pm
I think Pujols should be quarantined as a swine flu risk. Three days ought to do it.
monty
April 27th, 2009
1:18 pm
Carroll
Thanks for clarifying, it wasn’t you. Please accept my apology.
Supes
April 27th, 2009
1:19 pm
Thankfully the Marlins are coming down the earth.
Philly is hit or miss, if they are scoring runs, they win. Their starting pitching leaves much to be desired.
Mets have problems, lots of them. Wait on Anders to explain them to the blog:)
Nats…well, other than beating the Braves, they are pretty much worthless. Probably looking at 100+loss team easy.
Now onto the Braves. They miss B-Mac. Simple as that offensively…and Kelly has cooled off significantly. Kelly and Yunel are the key, if they are going to be 1-2. They’ve gotta get on infront of Chipper and B-Mac. Jeff has been good so far and I hope he keeps it up. Disappointed in Kotchman. He seems to have warning track power and often doesn’t get the ball out of the infield.
I think Jordan Schafer will be fine. He’s getting pitched to high/inside a lot and he’s K’ing on that pitch. Hope he finds his groove soon, Braves need him to play well. Eventually, you just have to move him to the leadoff spot, but he can’t be K’ing 3 times per game and do that. So once he learns to be a bit more patient, and starts to make steady contact, you have to gamble and move him in that spot and see how the young man reacts.
Matty Diaz has looked HORRIBLE of late. Swinging at pitches in the left handed batters box. With Anderson hurt (I knew he would turn out to be a liability more than he would be help)…I hope Bobby Cox gives Brandon Jones a shot in LF.
I’d go with:
1. Schafer
2. Esco
3. Chipper
4. B-Mac (when healthy)
5. Jeff
6. Kelly
7. B. Jones
8. C. Kotchman
Anyone else concerned now about the HR production? It’s tapered off significantly since the start of the season. Chipper’s injury slowed him down and no B-Mac. Kotchman seems determined to go a whole season without a HR. So much for him being a 15-20HR kind of guy. More like 10 or less.
Ruh Roh
April 27th, 2009
1:23 pm
GO JJ
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
1:23 pm
I just don’t see the Braves offense being enough against the Red Birds. Their pitching has been stellar so far…do the starters have a couple of complete games already too? Their offense is a juggernaut….and our offense is as anemic as it can be. Their one weakness is a guy in the pen…called Boyer…I read about him…given up 3 runs for the Cardinals in 1.2 innings.
AndyC
April 27th, 2009
1:23 pm
Willy Wally, I kind of agree with you. I am not ready to writeoff KK yet but when you realize that Hanson could be the #4 pitched and JoJo #5 and instead of spending that money of Glavine and KK we could have Dunn in left field. You can say whatever you want about Dunn, poor outfielder, strikesout too much, etc. but he is very productive, OPS so far this year is .997
Doc Holiday
April 27th, 2009
1:24 pm
BTW
Hampton is 1-1 with a 3.86 ERA plus he has gone 6.0 IP 3 out of 4 starts……….life is amazing……
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
1:25 pm
—Supes—, The Decreased Home Run Production isn’t just the Braves problem, Its leaguewide (I was suprised that Miguel Cabrera Led the A.L. Last Year with only 37 homers), even though the Braves are Rock-Bottom, Hence the Reason Why Many fans are calling out Kotchman because he doesn’t hit for high power numbers at a power position…
And Our Weak Outfield corps still hasn’t been addressed, Hence the reason Why I’m Still P’d Off that The Braves F.O. Went Cheap and Didn’t Go Harder After Raul Ibanez…
DAP
April 27th, 2009
1:25 pm
heavy medlin cody ross might be starting for the marlins tonight, but im not sure why you would care….
Maddux
April 27th, 2009
1:27 pm
Carroll, what are you doing today to turn your and the Braves’ luck around. Your 1-4 covering the Braves so far right? You killing any live chickens?
TnBrian
April 27th, 2009
1:27 pm
MFin04, nope, the Braves are in a very tough position to win one of these games unless they can figure out a way keep Pujols to a HR/hit per game, and the offense can actually stay consistantly good for 3 games. Not looking forward to this series at all! I’m not even sure it’s worth watching since I don’t know what this offense will or won’t do.
McFann Ô
April 27th, 2009
1:27 pm
Thanks for the new Blog, Ms. Rogers!
Today we should get some more details on what happened with Brian McCann’s visit to the eye specialist
Guess you just had to copy and paste that from the Blog you posted on Tuesday.
cabravesfan–
I know, I’m sorry! I had to wait for my turn at the computer–Mommy gets it first.
Lew
April 27th, 2009
1:28 pm
OK-If we only made the playoffs four times in the past 18 years after having a losing April, then the most times we could have had a losing April and NOT made the playoffs is three times- 06 thru 08.
What I take from that is a.we made the playoffs more often than NOT when having a losing April and b. That if we look at the past three seasons, it certainly wasn’t April performance, but later in the year that cost us our chance. Not too sure what having a losing April really proves.
Brock
April 27th, 2009
1:29 pm
You can still buy Bud Ice? I thought that fad went out a long time ago. Oh well. I’ll stick with Schlitz.
Pitching will continue to be horrible until we replace Roger Mcdumbass as a pitching statue. Not a coach but a statue. He does nothing!! Bring back Leo and you will see a turn around.
Doc Holiday
April 27th, 2009
1:29 pm
Sat. Apr 25, 2009 Source: STATS
Subscribe
News: Devine has had ligament replacement surgery on his right elbow, a procedure that usually requires at least one year of recovery. The operation was performed Tuesday by Dr. James Andrews on Devine’s ulnar collateral ligament. A’s manager Bob Geren said Wednesday that it was replacement surgery but that he had not spoken with the pitcher. [-]
Impact: Devine has been on the disabled list since the season started. Going into spring training, he was expected to share the closer’s role with Brad Ziegler. Devine went 6-1 with a 0.59 ERA and one save last season. He struck out 49 and walked 15 in 42 games covering 45 2-3 innings.
McFann Ô
April 27th, 2009
1:30 pm
MFin04–
I haven’t done any All-Star voting yet…just can’t–not with my mann hitting a buck-95 and on the DL…
Heavy Medlen
April 27th, 2009
1:31 pm
dap, good one.
cabravesfan
April 27th, 2009
1:31 pm
McFann-
excuses, excuses! Doesn’t she know this is way more importnat??
(by the way, I’m counting that as post #2 regarding Mac- you still have a long way to go to reach the over…get to work!)
Doc Holiday
April 27th, 2009
1:32 pm
AJ is hitting .435 in 30 PA
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
1:35 pm
Why not Ross in the 4 spot? Makes it really easy when McCann comes back.
1. Schafer
2. Esco
3. Chipper
4. Ross/McCann
5. Frenchy
6. KJ
7. Kotchman
8. B. Jones
Nike Shox
April 27th, 2009
1:36 pm
so after 3 weeks you all are calling kawakami a bust…….the pressure the people in baseball, most not familiar with actually playing sports of any kind, put on players to immediately succeed is RIDICULOUS………just wait til kenshin turns it around and you all bow at his knees…..give the guy a break and get a life………
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
1:36 pm
McFann quit your whining and get McCann to the All-Star game…he is our only shot at getting a position player into the game.
Doc Holiday
April 27th, 2009
1:37 pm
MFin04,
I agree, Ross is a dangerous guy.
Marc Schneider
April 27th, 2009
1:38 pm
Silly argument. Correlation is not causation. You just mentioned four years in which the Braves made the playoffs while having a losing April. Having a winning April is no more important than having a winning record in any other month. It’s more like superstition.
Carroll Rogers
April 27th, 2009
1:39 pm
Dang, Maddux, that’s a good point. What can I tell you. I’m usually a fast starter. Maybe Adam LaRoche took all my April luck….(don’t know where that came from, but it just popped into my head.)
No worries, Monty. I’m glad you pointed it out.
Heavy Medlen – hey, I’m not the only one eh? And your sign-on rules.
TM
April 27th, 2009
1:41 pm
For a team who missed the playoffs the last 3 years, I wish there would be a sense of urgency from the bench. Bobby Cox’s laid back loyal mentality the player will come around attitude works great with a team loaded with pitching and talent. BUT, when you have above average pitching and an average lineup, you need to come out of the gate with a sense of urgency to win in April and carry it through the summer.
I still believe the Braves will come up short, but with urgency they can compete until September. Without it, they will be out of the race by August.
Just a thought.
Random
April 27th, 2009
1:42 pm
Carroll Rogers (1:02 pm): “I’m not sure how they’d split a three-game series.”
Ask DOB. While you’re at it, get the skinny on crooked numbers from him, too.
BravesFAN885
April 27th, 2009
1:43 pm
i don’t understand, Carroll, why would Ross not be able to communicate “walk this batter” to Kenshin? do you think Kenshin just chose not to do that, or are you really saying he didn’t understand “walk the batter”?
AndyC
April 27th, 2009
1:49 pm
Too bad about Devine. I always thought he got a raw deal with the Braves. He got rushed to the majors and got killed his first few outings but looked a lot better in 2007. He was lights out last year with the A’s. Hopefully he can make it back.
DAP
April 27th, 2009
1:51 pm
in kenshin’s defense, if ross wanted him to walk jay bruce, it looked like thats what kenshin may have been trying to do. he put a pitch shoulder level in the righthanded batters box that bruce just sliced to the foul pole.
NC Braves Fan
April 27th, 2009
1:53 pm
I think slow April starts aren’t terribly damaging unless the division leader out of the gates rips off a 18-5 record or something like it. If you have to try and come back from 8 games back after a month (and you aren’t playing well to begin with), it puts a lot of pressure on teams to turn it around fast.
Billy Walsh
April 27th, 2009
1:54 pm
Its still way too early to tell on whether KK will be an effective pitcher or not. As for Schafer, if you look at his minor league numbers he is prone to striking out quite a bit. The more I see him, the more he reminds me of BJ Surhoff. BJ’s average season 13 hr 82 rbi .282 average. Schafer will probably have more pop in his bat, although BJ did hit 20 hr’s more than once. The comparisions to Grady Sizemore might be a stretch.
abwright
April 27th, 2009
1:59 pm
Carroll Rogers, 1:02 pm“Random, I’m not sure how they’d split a three-game series.”
“Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose, sometimes it rains.” … Crash Davis
ozzie
April 27th, 2009
2:00 pm
To be frank TP has to be on the bubble re: getting canned.
If the Braves continue to be bipolar at the plate, especially after the past few years and given how Frenchie and AJones were fixed by someone not named TP, Wren is going to force BC to clean house.
So a TP interview will just annoy fans that want him gone and wonder why he is still here.
BravesFAN885
April 27th, 2009
2:02 pm
ozzie: I don’t think any true fans want TP gone.
Maddux
April 27th, 2009
2:05 pm
Carroll, maybe you won too many games this spring and wasted all of the wins that actually count now! One thing that will get you back to winning is if we WALK Pujols all night for the next 3 nights.
sportsmandh
April 27th, 2009
2:07 pm
I think Kawakami will improve. In his first 3 starts he was pretty good except for too many walks. He also did not get much defensive support in his 2nd and 3rd start either. He may not turn out to be a top tier guy, but I don’t think he’s going to give up 8 runs a game either. After a couple more starts, I think he’ll begin to adjust better.
Random
April 27th, 2009
2:07 pm
George (12:56 pm): “I AM TIRED OF WATCHING THE ALL-STAR GAME WITH ONLY ONE OR TWO ATLANTA BRAVES PLAYERS… IF EVERYONE WILL COMMIT TO VOTING ATLEAST THE MAXIMUM 25 TIMES A DAY”
MFin04 (1:05 pm): “By the way…if you do the All Star voting…it remembers your votes…so you just need to resend it 25 times. I got my 25 votes in”
The limit is not 25x per day, nor 25x per person — it’s 25x per email address. (Or it was last year.)
After you’ve voted your own 25x, you can vote 25x for any other email accounts you might have, plus 25x for everyone in your email directory(s) (if you think they won’t be voting themselves). Last year, McFann (I think) and I voted over a couple hundred times each. (I cancelled all her McCann votes with votes for Corky.)
It may even take fictitious email addresses — I don’t know.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
2:07 pm
Runs scored in the last week: 0, 0, 11, 2, 3, 1, 4, 10, 2
Not sure what that means…but it can’t be good. Maybe it means we are due? I dunno.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
2:10 pm
Too bad we can’t vote for pitchers. Kawakami would make it for sure (the Japanese do nothing but fill out ballots all day for their countrymen apparently).
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
2:10 pm
Lew @ 1:28 – that’s why I like you. You keep your head and you can draw.
Knowitall
April 27th, 2009
2:10 pm
Rock On,
You still haven’t showed how Hanson playing on a bad team has cause his pitch count to increase. I know bad teams make errors but that’s not Hanson’s problem from what I’ve seen. He just throws a lot of pitches. It seems that he never gets anyone out early in the count. The strike outs are nice but they cause him to throw a lot of pitches. And then going to 3-2 counts on hitters that he doesn’t strike out adds to the pitch count total. He never seems to have one of those 10 pitch innings.
So again I ask, how does pitching on a bad team translate to never being able to get out of the 5th inning as a starting pitcher?
Lew
April 27th, 2009
2:13 pm
TM-And what, exactly would characterize a sense of urgency? Having Bobby Cox and Frank Wren running around, freaking out and threatening to send the entire team down to AA or firing the entire coaching staff?
Considering that we’re hardly out of the running after three weeks and that the best team in the division is only leading us by two games and is coming back down to earth after a quick start and the rest of the division has as many-if not more-problems than we do, I fail to see why everyone is so bent out of shape.
We have flaws and areas that need work, but everyone is so all fire ready to throw this team under the bus at the first sign of any weakness, we’ve failed to take notice of the fact that our pen (what many considered to be our Achillie’s Heel) has given up only two runs in their past seven games, comprising 17 2/3 IP. If our end game is good to go and most of our rotation has proven themselves well above average (and they have), we’ll be in the race until the end. Sure there are areas that need improvement, but to claim will be out of it well before the end based on this amount of time is absurd.
spotts
April 27th, 2009
2:13 pm
That stinks for you guys. For a couple of bucks, maybe I can do color commentary? Wayne in Utah
Thanks, but that’s not necessary. We still get the game, it’s just on Peachtree TV. So we’ll have Chip Caray doing….commentary. On second thought, how does $10 sound?
getnathan
April 27th, 2009
2:15 pm
Hey Lew, not me lol. Braves pitching, as long as it stays healthy, will keep us in games. We need some timely hitting, smart baserunning, and some luck to go our way.
McFann Ô
April 27th, 2009
2:15 pm
cabravesfan excuses, excuses! Doesn’t she know this is way more importnat??
Oh, I know! Guess I should’ve gotten on here before breakfast.
I do have a long way to go, don’t I?
…
……AN HOUR? THERE’S A WHOLE STINKIN’ HOUR TILL 3 O’CLOCK?? (This isn’t a sarcastic, I’m-only-doing-this-’cause-I’m-behind post–I mean it.)
At least we know for sure it’s today (we do know for sure, don’t we?)…not like last week when we thought it was Monday but it turned out to be Tuesday. This one’s certain, so I cann play “Come Monday” by Jimmy Buffett all I want…
MFin04–
Yeah, I s’pose you’re right…
But if this dadblame eye thing causes him to miss the ASG for the first time…
But I’ll let him get it taken care of and get back in the game before I fly off the handle about that…
a643dp
April 27th, 2009
2:16 pm
Does Kelly Johnsons bat have swine flu?
cabravesfan
April 27th, 2009
2:17 pm
spotts-
Chip is better then the crap that passes for “commentary” on ESPN…the Peachtree feed didn’t come up on my Tivo so I am stuck watching at least the first few innings with that crew…I can hardly wait
cabravesfan
April 27th, 2009
2:20 pm
McFann-
you could have at least edited my terrible spelling!
and, honestly (please don’t shoot me for suggesting this!) as much as I want Mac to make the All Star Team (and I will vote for him as much as they will allow)- would it be the end of the world of he got those days off? It might be better for him later on…
McFann Ô
April 27th, 2009
2:20 pm
Random–
Yup. I voted over a hundred times–sorta felt like I was cheating…and sometimes I wish they didn’t have online voting. But hey, I can’t boycott it or anything. My mann needs his votes. (You voted for Corky? Dang…and you had me believing all that time that you were voting for McCann…oh, this hurts…)
Remember, we oughta get the Japanese vote this year, so that should help. (Huh, all these other years, I’ve been against that. See how flexible I am?
)
Hey…is it 3 o’clock yet?
Lew
April 27th, 2009
2:20 pm
RunHeapRun-Thanks, but I’ll bet you could find a blogger or two here that don’t think I’m all that rational OR that I can draw all that well.
getnathan
April 27th, 2009
2:21 pm
Oh yeah Braves are on tonight. They’ll talk about how great Albert Pujols is. They won’t say anything good about the Braves.
Willy Wally
April 27th, 2009
2:22 pm
Schafer will score more runs in the leadoff spot then anyone on this team period. He will be able to draw walks eventually….and he can use his speed to get on base. Schafer has a higher average and higher OBP than KJ. (MFin04)
Oh, that wouldn’t happen to have anything to do with Schafer hitting 8th with the pitcher behind him and KJ hitting first with Escobar, Chipper, McCann behind him? Nah, not a factor at all.
spotts
April 27th, 2009
2:23 pm
cabravesfan – Good point…agreed. I’m no Chip fan, but compared to the announcers the national networks put up (Fox, ESPN, etc) I’ll take him and his “I’ll never end a sentence with a preposition” antics any day. I still don’t understand how Joe Morgan has a job with which to work.
Bobby's Cox
April 27th, 2009
2:23 pm
When pitchers throw from the wind up with runners on 3rd, I’m surprised more runners don’t try to steal home. You can almost always get a good lead and a good jump, and you if try it more often, that opens up a hole on the left side of the infield as the 3rd baseman has to stay close to the bag.
That steal last night was a lack of execution on behalf of petite and the Yankees. With a left handed batter up, someone is supposed to yell that the runner is coming, and petite and posada are supposed to pitch out. The Braves did this a few years ago on a squeeze play, I believe against the Cardinals, and nailed the runner.
Anyway, the steal of home really is an exciting play, on both sides of the ball.
McFann Ô
April 27th, 2009
2:23 pm
cabravesfan–
Sorry…didn’t notice the typo…
Would it be the end of the world?
…
……
………Yes. He’s getting 15+ days off now. I won’t shoot you, though. Don’t worry…
spotts
April 27th, 2009
2:24 pm
getnathan – They kinda have reason to. Pujols is leading the world in….everything. The Cards are what? 13-6? Braves are 9-9. If I wasn’t a homer, I’d wanna talk about the Cards too.
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
2:27 pm
Lew – My opinion is the only one that matters to me anyway.
McFann, you are the queen of wordpress formatting. It seems like you knew all the codes from day one. I’m impressed.
The home steal is a great play, I’m just mad the Red Sox are the ones who did it most recently.
Steve McP
April 27th, 2009
2:31 pm
Run Heap Run – conversely the really good thing about the home plate steal was that it was against the Yankees.
MARK
April 27th, 2009
2:31 pm
TP needs to be gone. He’s not the hitting coach, CHipper Jones is. WHenever a young talent is having problems you always here about them working with Chipper, not with TP.
Piedmont Blues (formerly BravesFan InRockies)
April 27th, 2009
2:32 pm
I still don’t understand how Joe Morgan has a job with which to work. — spotts
You and me too, man. Did you hear the discussion between Joe and Steve Phillips last night about whether it was a good idea for the Sox to have Pedroia running from 1B with 2 outs and Youk at the plate? Joe said yeah, you must run, gotta get in scoring position. Phillips said well, Pedroia gets thrown out a lot and you probably have a better chance to score with Youk up there and a runner on first with two out rather than the bases empty and no outs.
And then Joe (absolutely, don’t think twice, gotta try to get that bag) immediately pulled a total 180 without hesitation. Oh, he said, if Pedroia’s not a good base runner then you don’t steal.
I thought the networks expected these guys to do some preparation before they went on the air.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
2:32 pm
This series feels like a playoff series..and the Braves need to play it that way…Can’t get buried in the Standings this early on. JJ, Jo-Jo, and Vazquez. We’ll see how that goes.
Slee
April 27th, 2009
2:32 pm
Yea, he had a bad inning yesterday but Kawakami has been the victim of bad luck, defensive misplayed and poor run support. Except for giving up HR a game, he has not looked all that bad. I think once he gets a little more comfortable with the MLB then he will step it up.
AndyC
April 27th, 2009
2:33 pm
I agree about Pujols. Just walk him. That guy is on fire. I predict that he will finish the series with 2 homers and 5 RBI.
getnathan
April 27th, 2009
2:33 pm
well spotts, they can give us SOME credit for our starting pitching. And JJ is pitching tonight. He’s third in the league in ERA. How our bullpen has been pitching well of late. So yeah, talk about Pujols, but we need to get props, too.
getnathan
April 27th, 2009
2:34 pm
and that’s fine AndyC, as long as we hit and score some runs.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
2:34 pm
Is it possible to hire Chipper as the hitting coach? I mean when he misses a week at at time…atleast he could be teaching the other guys and get paid for it. Makes sense to me.
Willy Wally
April 27th, 2009
2:35 pm
We’re still waiting for Hideki Irabu and Kei Igawa to get more comfortable with the American game and ball ……
drake
April 27th, 2009
2:35 pm
I’d just like to quote what someone said on the vent:
“Is Kawakami Japanese for ‘ball travel very far?’”
fieldofdreams
April 27th, 2009
2:36 pm
Mr. Kawakami, apparently, hails from the Land of the Rising ERA. His stuff looks ordinary, and hHas anybody ever looked more awkward sitting on the Braves’ bench? He’s a Japanese disaster movie, no doubt about it. Congratulations Frank Wren: you’ve just burned $20+ million on Godzilla. Somwhere in Boston, John Smoltz is laughing.
AndyC
April 27th, 2009
2:36 pm
Thank goodness the Marlins are faltering. If they had kept winning like they were the Bravos would be 6-7 games out.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
2:36 pm
I was in favor of walking Joey Votto with the bases loaded the other night. we pitched to him instead and he cleared the bases. Hope we are smart about Pujols…Ludwick isnt a slouch…but Pujols is the greatest hitter in the history of the game.
AndyC
April 27th, 2009
2:37 pm
getnathan, you are correct sir. As long as we score more runs it doesn’t matter how he does.
Bobby's Cox
April 27th, 2009
2:38 pm
Willy Wally,
Hitting 8th in front of the pitcher is no easy task. You get a lot of junk thrown at you as pitchers either want the opposing pitcher to lead off the next inning, or doesn’t want you to get on with less than 2 out because you will be bunted into scoring position.
Seriously, the fact that Schafer has scored more runs in the 8 spot than KJ has scored hitting leadoff is quite troubling.
I don’t think Schafer will see a difference in how he’s pitched hitting 1 and 8 given that at 8 you got the pitcher behind you (see above), and at 1 you’re pitched tough as well because you have 2,3,4 behind you. The only difference is, hitting in the 8 spot, Cox is wasting Schafer’s speed and Escobar is seeing more breaking balls.
AndyC
April 27th, 2009
2:38 pm
Land of the Rising ERA. Funny.
ncscoots
April 27th, 2009
2:39 pm
This series feels like a playoff series..and the Braves need to play it that way…Can’t get buried in the Standings this early on.
Get the man some medicine, I think he’s a little feverish.
CR, let’s get the players’ view on this playoff-like series. Can they feel the intensity ratcheting up as this pivotal, nay, season-defining end-of-April series draws nigh? Are they ready to leave their guts on the field for this series, because there’s no tomorrow after this one?
Oh wait…there’s 139 tomorrows after this series?
Oh.
cabravesfan
April 27th, 2009
2:39 pm
spotts-
Joe Morgan has a job for the same reason Bill Walton has a job- because they are Joe Morgan & Bill Walton. Note to ESPN: Just because they were good athletes DOES NOT MEAN THEY CAN STRING TOGETHER 2 COHERENT THOUGHTS!
I am hoping I can still get the Peachtree feed once I get caught up on espn…
Kentavo
April 27th, 2009
2:41 pm
I think D-Lowe, Javy and JJ are going to keep us in most games – the X factors are the spotty offense and spotty bullpen.
Then the other two spots in the rotation are wildcards, too.
But you know, how many teams have a better 1-2-3 starters right now (besides Toronto) and Pittsburgh, which will come back to earth soon enough?
I think, barring injury, things will even out a bit more and we’ll get some more consistent play and start with the ol’ winning 2 out of 3 every series which starts to pile up.
Then come trade deadline, Wren nabs us a right-handed power bat, Tommy H. comes up to solidify the rotation and Hudson comes back for stretch drive in August (he could be a wicked closer or setup guy with that sinker).
Of course, I am deeply concerned about McCann as blurred vision is a very scary thing.
ncscoots
April 27th, 2009
2:41 pm
Somwhere in Boston, John Smoltz is laughing.
Just practicing for his next rehab interview, I expect.
Sandlot
April 27th, 2009
2:41 pm
Hey…is it 3 o’clock yet?
What happens at 3 o’clock?
Kentavo
April 27th, 2009
2:41 pm
Will Cox finally walk Pujols instead of challenge him?
Skeezix
April 27th, 2009
2:44 pm
I said it b-4 the season started and I see no reason to change –this is a third place team at best (unless major deals are cut to really strengthen the pitching staff and offense). KK has turned out to be a high priced batting practice pitcher–but who other than Wren can be surprised at that?
McFann Ô
April 27th, 2009
2:44 pm
Run Heap Run–
Haha, thanks…did take me a while to get my linking down pat, though…that and bolding.
Original Jon
April 27th, 2009
2:46 pm
Casey Fossum was DFA’ed, wonder if we could get him. He has a 2.25 ERA so far this year. Not sure why the Mets DFA’ed him. I would take a flyer on Logan Kensing as well.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
2:46 pm
This is a huge series…the Braves need to be able to beat the best teams in the NL consistently if they have any hope of making the playoffs. This half witted approach…of crappy hitting/base running/fielding/etc has got to end tonight and the team needs to score some runs. There needs to be some urgency on this team. Bobby for one needs to shake the order up to try and get this team going…because KJ striking out…Esco grounding out…and Chipper…half heartedly trotting to first in the first inning is getting old.
ncscoots
April 27th, 2009
2:49 pm
I don’t think Schafer will see a difference in how he’s pitched hitting 1 and 8
Sorry. The pitcher gets you out at 1, you get yourself out at 8. Big difference in the pitches you see and the counts in which you see them.
Bobby's Cox
April 27th, 2009
2:50 pm
Joe Morgan is very insightful and gives a good analysis. He’s got a great voice and can talk. Just because your school of baseball thought doesn’t agree with his, doesn’t mean he shouldn’t have a job.
Morgan came from a different era, where you got on, got over, and scored on a sac or basehit. Unfortunately for all of you still stuck in the steroids era, and for our slowest team in baseball, the sport is going back to that.
Pedroia IS a good baserunner. And I agree with Joe. You can try to steal there. Doesn’t mean you should, but you can. The chances of hitting a HR are slim, even for Youk. But the probability of a guy hitting .450 as Youk is, getting a basehit, is high. Whether or not Pedroia attempted and got thrown out is irrelevant because even if Youk leads off the next inning with a hit, you have a leadoff hitter on with 0 out. If Youk singles and Pedroia doesn’t steal, then it takes another hit to get Pedroia home – again small odds of getting 2 consecutive hits with 2 out.
It also depends on who’s pitching and how many runs you’re playing for. In a tight game, why not play for 1 run? However, with Petite pitching, who has a good move to 1st, then you probably want to hold Pedroia at 1st.
See? A lot more strategy and exciting than sitting back and waiting on the long ball, Willy Wally. Not sure how that qualifies Morgan to be fired.
NC Braves Fan
April 27th, 2009
2:53 pm
Kawakami rhymes with origami, which is the art of folding paper into decorative shapes, usually from uncut squares.
For what it’s worth …
ozzie
April 27th, 2009
2:55 pm
IMHO true fans have been very unhappy about our offense (for years) and while the cast of characters has changed a fair bit the results are the same.
Players 1-9 are the hook to execute but coaches are not irrelevant and need to be held accountable.
Also fans tend to be fans of players not coaches. I could care less who manages and who coaches if the team gets results and maximum value out of whatever players they have been given.
How many Pendleton, Cox or McDowell jerseys do you think the Braves sell each year?
But I digress.
Either our players are horribly mediocre/bi polar or our coaching staff is due for an major upgrade.
Bottom line in the real world an organization with a $95mm payroll that loses half of the time or more rarely skates by with the same people driving the bus YOY.
The entire Braves coaching staff included Bobby was given a mulligan for 2008. They won’t get the same pass from Wren if they finish in 3rd or 4th place.
Slugger
April 27th, 2009
2:56 pm
Schafer, Jones, Escobar, Chipper, Mac (when hes back, but for now Kelly can hit 5) Francoeur, Kotchman, Ross…
That’s my lineup.
Yunel Escobar has shown this year what consistent, hard contact can do for a team.
Bobby's Cox
April 27th, 2009
2:57 pm
Sorry scoots,
I disagree. Schafer will continue to be pitched high and tight whether he’s hitting 1 or 8 until he lays off of that pitch or can fight it off and make the pitcher throw 10+ pitches in his AB or force the pitcher to throw the ball on the outer half, which Jordan hits really well to Left Center.
And no, hitting in front of the pitcher ain’t easy. That’s why many managers like to put fast, leadoff slap hitter type guys there. One, so they can use their speed to get on, or Two, so they can fight off all the junk the pitcher throws at them. The 7 slot is probably the easiest spot to hit.
Either 1 or 8, the pitcher absolutely does not want you to get on base and will use their best stuff to make sure you don’t.
Slugger
April 27th, 2009
2:57 pm
Rookie at leadoff… they’re going to be less likely to exploit a guy’s weaknesses because they want to get ahead of the hitter so 2-4 doesn’t drive him in. I think it would be the best thing for Jordan, actually.
AndyC
April 27th, 2009
2:57 pm
Yeah, I am worried about B-Mac too. I keep hearing it described different ways. First it was dry eye, then it was an infection, then he needed his vision corrected, and now it’s back to an infection/vision correction. He is officially on the DL for an infection. I pray it’s not a Nick Esasky type situation where a guy just gets struck with a strange illness and never plays again. Surely that can’t happen!
Knowitall
April 27th, 2009
2:58 pm
MFin04,
While I certainly hope the Braves play well, I wouldn’t exactly call this a critical series. We are currently only 2 games back in the division. I certainly hope that the Braves don’t get swept but if they do they would still be only 5 games back.
The worst thing about a sweep would be that I would no longer have a means to kill time at work because reading this blog would be unbearable.
RBI
April 27th, 2009
3:01 pm
D/O – Any reason Martin Prado not getting more playing time considering KJ’s lack of production?
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
3:02 pm
Lots of idiots on here want to change the lineup…what in the world are you thinking? This lineup is doing fine and will we run it out there again tonight!
Wayne in Utah
April 27th, 2009
3:05 pm
Lew
I would know how you “draw”, as I have never seen you golf.
As for your 2:13 post, definitely agree, and even considering the time that has been missed so far by Chipper, Mac and Anderson, a 9-9 ain’t too bad.
Wayne in Utah
April 27th, 2009
3:05 pm
would=wouldn’t
BA
April 27th, 2009
3:06 pm
How do you say “location” in Japanese? Kawakami’s arsenal is comparable with a number of Major Leaguers, but his location stinks. Do they really consistently pitch that high in the zone over there?
Somebody needs to tell him that in a park like the Smallpark hitters are going to launch that breaking stuff when it comes in chest-high, no matter how pretty the break is.
Nice blog, Carroll Rogers- but the religious right just called, and they’re not happy about the “quite a threesome” line.
corkylikesbeer
April 27th, 2009
3:08 pm
McFann….I did vote for Corky Miller 200 times!
cabravesfan
April 27th, 2009
3:09 pm
Bobby’s Cox-
I’ve got no problem with the way Morgan played, as a matter of fact, I actually prefer that type of baseball. I’ve got nothing against Joe Morgan, the person. I just think he’s a poor announcer who is more interested in hearing his own voice and opinions then the actual game.
TM
April 27th, 2009
3:09 pm
Lew- my problem with this Braves team is not with the pitching staff (except that Hanson should be here and despite what the management says, it’s all because of $$ and holding off arbitration for one more year).
This lineup has big time holes in it. I like KJ, but he is not a very good leadoff hitter. I like him in the #6 or 7 slot. McCann is great, but he is not a #4 hitter. I love McCann, but he is a #5. Francouer must have a better year than last year… better start, but we’ll see. Kotchman and Schaefer are below avg hitters. You can live with Schaefer cause he’s young. Kotchman is weak at a strong position. Then there is left field… another strong position that you need power # production from unless you get them from other positions. This team does not. Diaz is a very good 4th OF and pinch hitter, but if he starts he is a liability. G. Anderson is done… Angels knew that and didn’t even make an offer to him.
So, you add all that up and you get a batting lineup that is not very good. In order to overcome that, you have to be an opportunistic hitting team and be fundamental moving runners into position… This team does not do that. That is where urgency by the staff is extremely important. You obviously know baseball and have to understand this. If I am missing something that you are seeing in regards to this, please inform because I just don’t see any players or coaches urging this type of play.
ncscoots
April 27th, 2009
3:09 pm
they’re going to be less likely to exploit a guy’s weaknesses because they want to get ahead of the hitter
Huh? I missed something in translation, or you’ve never pitched, LOL.
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
3:12 pm
Good point, SteveMcP @2:31.
JJ, Jo-Jo, and Vazquez. We’ll see how that goes. I’m not worried about JJ or Vazquez at all. JoJo will probably be okay for a few innings, guess we’ll see.
drake – that vent is awful….but it also made me laugh.
I can’t wait for the new “Know Your Braves” with KJ. I’m looking forward to seeing how the guys imitate Chipper, if nothing else.
Willy Wally
April 27th, 2009
3:14 pm
Hitting 8th in front of the pitcher is no easy task. You get a lot of junk thrown at you as pitchers either want the opposing pitcher to lead off the next inning, or doesn’t want you to get on with less than 2 out because you will be bunted into scoring position. (Bobby’s)
Hitting 8th makes things far more predictable for Schafer.
With 2 outs, they’re not gonna fool much with him. Yeah, yeah, yeah, supposedly, according to folksy wisdom, they want the pitcher leading off the next inning, but, in reality, they often don’t give the 8th guy anything to hit if he’s enough of a threat because they are pretty much assured the pitcher will make the final out.
How has Schafer done with 2 outs? It’s not surprising that he’s got 8 of his 12 walks in 22 PAs with 2 outs. How many walks does he have in his other 45 PAs? 4!
Now with 0 outs, he knows they’re gonna be aggressive with him. Not a surprise then that he’s hitting .318 with 0 outs.
With 1 out, they’re more likely to pitch to him the way they would if he was hitting leadoff, and he’s gotta guess more about how aggressive they’ll be with him. He’s hitting only .217 with one walk in that situation.
He ain’t doing so hot either with RISP, which is another situation where pitchers really start pitching to him, and don’t predictably nibble or predictably act aggressive. He’s only hitting .167 in that situation.
The batting 8th with 2 outs and the pitcher up next is inflating his OBP numbers thus far. His walk total has also been inflated by getting up with a man on second or a man on third with two outs and the pitcher coming up next.
For someone who hates KJ so much, the sooner you realize Schafer is KJ, except with more speed and more Ks, the lesser the inevitable disappointment will be for you.
Lew
April 27th, 2009
3:16 pm
AndyC-They used the term “infection” because there was nothing on the form that was more specific-at least that’s the explanation DOB gave in his article.
This is not some strange illness (nor was Nick Esasky’s for that matter). Sometimes dry eye happens after opthalmic procedures. I know-I’ve had 16 on my right eye and have dry eye. It’s aggravating (and granted, I just have to draw with it-NOT try to hit a 95 MPH fastball) and there are ways to deal with it, but you take them in sequence. Maybe he WILL need an additional Lasik procedure, but apparently this is not unheard of after Lasik-maybe less common, but it’s not the first time something like this has happened. If it IS just the dry eye and drops or ointment don’t work, then there is a procedure (DOB said that Jeff Conine had it as a Marlin) where they plug the tear duct. I KNOW that is done all the time because they’ve been wanting to do it to me for a couple years and I researched it.
Anyway-From what has been written about his situation and my own experience, this does not sound to me like it’s something that should be long term or that there is no known treatment for. Couple this with the fact that Mac will likely have the best Doctors to deal with it and I would bet he’ll be fine.
Bobby's Cox
April 27th, 2009
3:16 pm
BA,
If you watched that video of KK pitching in Japan, no, he did not pitch up in the zone in Japan. And if he did, that’s probably when his ERA went higher than 0. The hitters he got out in the video all got out on stuff low in the strike zone.
When you elevate your pitches, often it is because your arm is tired, or it is simply mechanics.
I still think KK is getting used the ball, and that gripping and throwing a bigger baseball is affecting his location quite a bit. I really think his arm is tiring soon, evidenced by his troubles in the 5th or 6th innings. He really does have nice stuff, but he needs to locate to be effective, and he’s still learning how to locate with the bigger ball.
He’ll have 1 bad inning early (getting used to the ball?), then 3-4 solid innings, then he’ll lose the strike zone again as his arm tires. I really think he’ll be fine if his arms strengthens as the year goes on….
McFann Ô
April 27th, 2009
3:17 pm
What happens at 3 o’clock?–
Maybe 3:30 would have been more accurate…but any minute now, Ms. Rogers should give a report on BMac.
corkylikesbeer–
That makes sense…
AndyC–
Me, too…can’t think straight during this math.
But it all about reciprocals of sin, cos, and tan, so it’s not like I’d be thrilled about it anyway…
McFann Ô
April 27th, 2009
3:18 pm
Thanks, Lew.
ease19
April 27th, 2009
3:19 pm
Slugger – I like that lineup
nscoots, true, but I would say so tentatively first time through the order, and would depend on the weakness. A lead-off walk is not how you want to start the game.
ncscoots
April 27th, 2009
3:19 pm
WW, that’s what I was going to say, except not nearly as well as you, LOL. I want to be you when I grow up, man.
Brooklyn Braves Brawler
April 27th, 2009
3:19 pm
I think KK is a really good pitcher but he needs runs scored for him to be effective and we don’t score any for him. He’s very bend but don’t break.
He needs to pitch down hill meaning that he needs a lead to be filthy but is just above average if you are tied after 5 innings.
I almost rather have Brandon rather than Garret Anderson on a daily basis. I still think the Braevs are to lefty heavy.
cabravesfan
April 27th, 2009
3:20 pm
McFann-
Reference #3…keep ‘um coming!
Bobby's Cox
April 27th, 2009
3:21 pm
Willy Wally,
Great post….
PMC
April 27th, 2009
3:23 pm
Hopefully they can take 2 out of 3. Look it’s really not that bad when you look at the roster. Frenchy has done MUCH better. He’s getting a lot of the hits he wasn’t last year. Left Field is still an area where the Braves..despite small efforts haven’t really locked down a starter or non temporary player. Center Field looks better than it did last year. Schaff is a rookie, he’s going to have ups and downs at the plate but he’s made some nice plays in the field too. Andrew Jones just spoiled us for a decade out there. They made a good and quick decision on Boyer. They’ve not been too wishy washy before sending guys to the DL and plugging in guys that are playing well like Brandon Jones. 9-9.. I’ll take it, especially if they can go 11-10 or 12-9 for the month. This is at best a fringe playoff team at best. If they can iron out a few of the awful losses they might be able to string toegther enough wins to be in it at the end but it’s going to take A lot of good breaks to make it into the playoffs no matter how they did in April. They had a really bad week, but things look pretty good on the whole I think relatively speaking. Just find a way to win series and don’t get swept. Keep plugging away from the starters and the bullpen. This team will eventually score runs though if the middle of the order is healthy and hitting. Frenchy helps a ton if he can keep getting the two out hits for rbi’s.
St. Louis Rules
April 27th, 2009
3:23 pm
hello all
Sandlot
April 27th, 2009
3:24 pm
Maybe 3:30 would have been more accurate…but any minute now, Ms. Rogers should give a report on BMac.
Ooh, good. It’s been too quiet around the office today. I need something to look forward to!
ncscoots
April 27th, 2009
3:24 pm
ease, a hitter’s “weakness”, by definition, is what makes him underperform his norm. You pitch good to his weaknesses and bad to his strengths. Now, somebody may have come up with a new way of pitching of which I’m unaware, but, otherwise, that’s been SOP for a lot longer than I’ve been around.
Mac
April 27th, 2009
3:25 pm
$20 million for Kawakami? Oops.
I think Kotchman will be fine in the long run. But, the fact is, he just lost his mother and that is likely affecting him right now. Those of you who have lost parents know what I mean.
AndyC
April 27th, 2009
3:25 pm
Lew, I hope your right. But is seems strange that B-Mac’s Lasik was well over a year ago and he is now having problems. It’s not like he just had it done. Sorry you are having problems. All of this just reinforces the fact that I don’t want to have Lasik done.
chipper has swine flu
April 27th, 2009
3:26 pm
sorry guys I’m not playing today… I’m sick
Jeff321
April 27th, 2009
3:26 pm
http://markbowman.mlblogs.com/archives/2009/04/waiting_on_updates_from_mccann.html
Testing to see if the blockquote tag works.
Bobby's Cox
April 27th, 2009
3:30 pm
WW,
just read your last paragraph to your excellent post.. Let’s hope that’s not the case with Jordan…yes, i’m expecting him to be better than that, and i think he will be. Confidence and and the desire to be the best at what you do will take you far…I just don’t see those same personality traits in KJ.
McFann Ô
April 27th, 2009
3:30 pm
You’re welcome, Sandlot! Don’t know why your name didn’t show up on my post. Ha…guess I’m not the queen of this format after all.
Gack…it’s 3:30!
Lew
April 27th, 2009
3:31 pm
TM-Yeah, I’m aware of the deficiencies, I just wondered what constituted proof of a sense of urgency to you. As for Kelly-I prefer him hitting lower in the order too, but I have no problem with Schafer starting off lower in the order either. I’d go with Yunel, who makes good contact and since he hits too many ground balls, will be less likely to hit into double plays leading off. I’d let Kotchman bat second since he’s making good, solid contact and is not killing worms on a line to the first baseman as much as when he came to the Braves. As for him being a below average hitter-Really? He was hitting over .300 before yesterday’s game and has had an OBP of over .360 so far this year. I’m not so sure I consider that below average just because he doesn’t hit for tons of power. Neither did Mark Grace and he had quite a fine career at first base. Not to mention that Kotchman’s defense is excellent.
As for the pitching. I fail to see how Hanson would have made any difference whatsoever to this point in the season. He would have done nothing to help score more runs. He would not have forestalled the early season pen meltdowns and he would have been no more than the fifth starter and only would have pitched once to this point in the season. Pitching at Gwinnett has allowed him to get some pitching in and to work on getting his pitch counts down somewhat and working on his control and command.
They are NOT going to use him instead of Kawakami (at least not anytime soon). I’m seriously doubting this has anything whatsoever to do with his arbitration clock starting. He’s inexperienced at the ML level, has only had less than a month at AAA where his pitch counts have been high. He’s good. He has potential. He is still not even a rookie. They’ll bring him up when they need him and not before then.
ease19
April 27th, 2009
3:35 pm
nscoots, I was just generalizing the first time through the order, especially in the first inning. Unless you have the 95+ fastball to where you can just start busting people in, probably a good idea to see how well your stuff translates out in the field after the bullpen (which in some cases are different the the gamer mounds). Not everyone can come out of the box and throw three straight (or four, five) down and away sliders to Andruw’s “weakness”. Especially control type pitchers. But thanks for the defination of “weakness” anyway.
Cecil34
April 27th, 2009
3:36 pm
It gets more difficult every year to get worked up about what the Braves do in the first month or two of a season. A below .500 April does not doom a season.
However, it is true that games given away in April haunt you in September. This is because someone in this division will, at some point in the season, start playing at close or better than a .600 clip.
The Braves of course hope it will be them. But if it isn’t….
The average this decade for this division’s winners is 94 wins and a .580 winning percentage.
The last 4 years it has been 92 wins and a .567 percentage.
You put yourself behind the 8 ball the more games you lose early. Less margin for error.
And if you have a team that does have weaknesses, then it becomes near impossible to keep pace with division leaders. Unless they are weak also.
In short – there is no need for panic in April. Let nature take it’s course. When you get to June, you should know something.
Lew
April 27th, 2009
3:37 pm
AndyC-And the fact that it WAS more than a year ago may indicate that it is not the Lasik causing the problems. Guess we’ll know soon enough, though.
I did NOT have Lasik done-I have retinal edema and bleeding and scarring from all the laser surgeries to dry up the bleeding. They do steroid injections in the eye for the swelling. However, dry eye can be associated with many forms of opthalmic surgery. So far it’;s been no big deal because it doesn’t interfere with my art work. Hitting that fastball is another creature altogether. My canvas doesn’t move at all-much less at almost 100 MPH.
ncscoots
April 27th, 2009
3:39 pm
ease, I wasn’t trying to be snarky, if it came off that way, LOL. I’m pretty sure i missed something in that whole exchange, and I probably would have been better off to shut my d***ed pie-hole, as previously requested.
Bobby's Cox
April 27th, 2009
3:41 pm
OH Steve said yesterday that they can do mulitple Lasik’s until you’re at a point where they can “shave” off any more of your eye. My only concern for Mac is that this isn’t a recurring issue. Maybe he won’t need Lasik again, barring the news from CR, but it is a concern in my eyes…not for the Braves sake but for Brian’s sake. I don’t want him to be the next Kirby Pucket, although Puckett’s condition was entirely different
Bobby's Cox
April 27th, 2009
3:47 pm
“They do steroid injections in the eye for the swelling” Lew
Maybe the whole team should be diagnosed with eye problems
ease19
April 27th, 2009
3:47 pm
scoots – No harm no foul
I would never tell you that…Intelligent banter is just so rare these days!
I was just trying to give a pitchers persepctive. Were you the catcher or was that nolie? I forget.
njbraves
April 27th, 2009
3:48 pm
Kawakami sucks. Let’s be honest, his stuff is average at best. that big, slow curveball is fooling no one. he walks too many guys and gives up too many long balls. Bad signing by the Bravos. I wish they had used that money for more offense and let hanson pitch with the big club all year. Let’s hope JJ is on tonight because Jo-Jo is guaranteed to be off tomorrow. How many losses do you guys think it will take before the Braves realize Reyes is garbage??
fat people sink faster
April 27th, 2009
3:51 pm
i think that kk can be serviceable, but not if he keeps elevating the ball
kj is not a leadoff hitter…in fact, the braves might not have a true leadoff hitter on the team. JS could end up being one, but right now he’s not. this team is frustrating to watch at the dish
drives me to drink
McFann Ô
April 27th, 2009
3:51 pm
cabravesfan keep ‘um coming!
OK:
Almost been an hour since I thought we’d know something…this native is restless…
DAP
April 27th, 2009
3:51 pm
mac
did i miss something? i didnt know kotchman’s mom died…
Knuckle Sandwich
April 27th, 2009
3:52 pm
What’s the word on McCann?
Il Cattivo
April 27th, 2009
3:53 pm
Mac
Kotchman’s mom is alive and supposed to be doing fine. He was on the inactive list last year because she was ill- She has since recovered and so thats really not a reason for anything this year.
Besides Kotchman is fine already this year. Granted the power isnt there yet but he is hitting well and no more weak dribblers to second base or first.If you ask me here is working on things methodically and trying to get hits first and not just free swinging at everything. Eventually this will work out so that he gets 10-15 homers this season.
McFann =Ô=
April 27th, 2009
3:54 pm
OK, last week we knew what was up at 3:46…
There’s another one, cabravesfan!
Knowitall
April 27th, 2009
3:54 pm
DAP,
I thought I was the only one who caught that about Kotchman’s mom. I wasn’t going to say anything though.
Lew
April 27th, 2009
3:56 pm
Bobby’s Cox-Different kind of steroids. These are used more like they use cortisone injections in baseball-just for swelling-there’s no performance enhancing involved.
ncscoots
April 27th, 2009
3:57 pm
ease, Capt Caveman was a catcher, as was nolie, I believe. I was a pitcher. nolie has said that any worth I had as a pitcher was only because I probably had a good catcher, LOL, and some days, I tend to concur.
Bobby's Cox
April 27th, 2009
3:59 pm
Yes Lew, that was a joke, as indicated by the wink…How about diagnosing them all with asthma then? Heard those inhalers have steroids too
Kim
April 27th, 2009
4:00 pm
Run Heap Run – I totally got what you meant on yesterday’s blog about the girl from Twilight pitching like Arroyo! In fact, I had just made the same statement myself a few minutes before I read your post yesterday. When I told my husband, he just rolled his eyes!
Lew
April 27th, 2009
4:00 pm
njbarves-It’s a bit early to say that Kawakami was a bad signing. Disappointing to this point? Absolutely. As for his stuff-are you kidding? Average? I don’t think so. His control has been bad, but the Dude has stuff many ML pitchers would love to have. Let’s see if adjustment to a larger baseball helps his control before we decide to ship him back to the other side of the planet.
Lew
April 27th, 2009
4:02 pm
Bobby’s Cox-No, ADD diagnoses are what’s needed. That Ritilin might just provide the spark-legally.
TM
April 27th, 2009
4:02 pm
Lew – Kotchman’s numbers are 12th amoung 24 first baseman in mlb right now. .281 avg with 4 rbi & 6 runs scored is not very good. his hits are weak singles with little production in rbi & runs. Also, if you look at some of the names in the bottom of the league, their numbers will improve (like Berkman, Lee, Texeria, Feilder…), while Casey’s will at best continue to be the same.
I said I didn’t have a problem with the staff except Hanson not being here. Don’t think i ever said he would make a difference vs. KK or anyone else.
I contend they should be getting Hanson MLB experience now so he will be ready to dominate in a year or two. All pitchers struggle out of the gate in the majors, i want them to get Hanson the experience now vs. next year.
This team 2-3 years from contending again. The focus should be that and getting your youngsters ready to compete in 2-3 years. I’m sure most Braves fans would except that while losing vs. the alternative which is what has been the last 3 years and most likely this year.
TnBrian
April 27th, 2009
4:03 pm
njBraves, Reyes had a real good spring and did ok in AAA, plus he’s a lefty. I guess the Braves see that and are still hoping he can at least be an average #5 starter. And I can see the Cards tee off of him in game 2 as well unless he mixes that fastball and curve like he showed in a few starts last year.
Kawakami sucks right now and I don’t know why he isn’t throwing that cutter like we saw in the youtube video. I think him hanging the curve is because the size of the ball. Seems like that would be the pitch to give him trouble because of that. The rest of his pitches…who knows why he can’t hit his spots.
varoadrunner
April 27th, 2009
4:04 pm
Bravesfan885
I am an avid Braves fan and have been through thick and thin – BUT – I do want TP either gone or in a different position – Bench Coach maybe – people are always suggesting that he will be Bobby’s successor, well give him the bench coach job. HE IS NOT a hitting coach. As mentioned, funny how Frenchy and Andruw were “fixed” by other than TP. The whole team could use a different approach to hitting. I like TP, I would like to keep TP with the Braves – JUST NOT AS THEIR HITTING COACH.
Lew
April 27th, 2009
4:04 pm
B’s C-That little emoticon wink is just the kind of thing I miss because of the swelling they give me the steroids for.
Chop Chop
April 27th, 2009
4:04 pm
I see that Terence Moore’s last column has been posted. Say what you want about Mr. Moore, but he always knew how to get people riled up. His columns often provided me with the greatest gift of all: laughter. He’ll be missed.
Now, regarding the column…
A lot of fans have wondered the same thing about Atlanta pro teams. Unfortunately, there’s not a damn thing any of us can do about it. As always, we’ll just be fans and hope we get to see greatness once in a great while. We’ll also criticize and idolize and crucify and deify all the while. Such is the life of a fan.
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
4:04 pm
I wish “News” would pop in again.
Daniel
April 27th, 2009
4:05 pm
Here is my current positive spin on the Braves. Started off the season with a bad bullpen (starting to get better), Anderson, Chipper, McCann, Glavine, Escobar have been injured. Very poor hitting, etc. And after all that we are 500 and right in the mix.
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
4:05 pm
Kim! Thank you!
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
4:06 pm
I love when Youtube…is being used for scouting lol. That and all facts are from Wikipedia.org (rolls eyes)
McFann =Ô=
April 27th, 2009
4:06 pm
Run Heap Run–
Yeah, that’d be good.
He said if it was bad news, he wouldn’t post…
…
…Wish I had finger nails to bite!
njbraves
April 27th, 2009
4:07 pm
Lew…come on man..really? You think other major league pitchers look at Kawakami and say “wow..wish I threw like that.” Give me a break. I’m not impressed…would have taken my chances with Smoltz any day over this guy.
DAP
April 27th, 2009
4:07 pm
TM….281 avg with 4 rbi & 6 runs scored is not very good….their numbers will improve (like Berkman, Lee, Texeria, Feilder…), while Casey’s will at best continue to be the same.
oh yeah, youre right. im sure kotchman has maxed out his run production at 4 RBIs.
Steve from OH
April 27th, 2009
4:07 pm
I think other major league pitchers might wish for a curveball like his…
TnBrian
April 27th, 2009
4:08 pm
I should’ve said Reyes can pitch well against the Cards, or any team, if he works the fastball in and out, and if he keeps the curveball down. Keep ‘em off balance. Like I said earlier, I really hate this series. Pujols makes me nervous… and watch out for Ludwick too.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
4:08 pm
Let’s be a little more realistic…with the positive spin.
- Bullpen will be average at best
- Chipper is going to be hurt a lot…and will cause us to lose more games being out
- Garret Anderson is most likely done and isnt the power hitter we need in left field anyways
- Glavine is retiring next week
- McCann is missing a lot of games…but I hope he will return to be a top five player in NL…but that remains to be seen.
So none of those problems are really fixing themselves…might not ever get fixed at all.
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
4:09 pm
I see that Terence Moore’s last column has been posted. Say what you want about Mr. Moore, but he always knew how to get people riled up. His columns often provided me with the greatest gift of all: laughter. He’ll be missed.
Yeah I hate to see anyone lose their job, he wasn’t my favorite by any means but man the comments left for him are brutal. I mean, how can you hate someone so much? It’s not that serious if someone disagrees with you, people..
TennesseePaul
April 27th, 2009
4:10 pm
Jo-Jo Reyes has a 7.94 ERA after one start and you have to figure that’ll lower
No. You don’t have to figure that will lower. I could see it staying right about there until Glavine hangs it up and they think Hanson is ready.
I hope KK gets it together. He planted those pitches right down the middle to Bruce. Almost anyone in the league would have nailed them out of the park. I’m not sure if it will be warm weather helping him any more than finally being comfortable in the MLB and communicating with his teammates.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
4:10 pm
Kotchman and Frenchy look like the same .300 hitter. Very little power and lots of weak singles. I like Frenchy a lot more than Kotchman…whoever made the statement that he has been weak for us…is correct. I dont see his run production going up either. Time to start looking for a LF and 1B.
Renegator
April 27th, 2009
4:10 pm
Carroll:
I thought DOB told us last week that Joe Borchard was released. Am I wrong?
McFann =Ô=
April 27th, 2009
4:10 pm
MFin04 but that remains to be seen.
”
”
Not the best choice of words, man…
Fleming
April 27th, 2009
4:11 pm
TM – I don’t want to wait 2-3 more years for this team to be competitive. I don’t have any guarantees that I’m gonna be around in 2-3 years and sorry, neither do you. If you aren’t trying to be competitive this tear, then why not just DFA Chipper and Javy and Lowe now and save a bundle. We don’t need them. While we are at it we might as well DFA Frenchy and Kotchman now two because they will be gone by them. We can just bring up the AAA team and play them since they’re doing so well.
TnBrian
April 27th, 2009
4:11 pm
MFin04, I was using the YouTube video as an example because there’s no other way to analyze KK’s past. It’s also clear as the fu*** day that his comand is nowhere near as good as we saw on the video.
Lew
April 27th, 2009
4:12 pm
TM- If a heavy hitting first baseman is so integral, then why didn’t we win with Teixeira here for as long as he was? How come the Brewers with Fielder couldn’t make it through the first round of the playoffs. How come the Astros suck even with Berkman? I think you’re attaching way too much importance to one position. Could it be because pitching and defense makes a bigger difference and we had none while Tex was here, the Brewers have little now and the Astros have not much after Oswalt?
If Hanson wouldn’t have made a difference to this point, then why should he have been called up? That makes no sense whatsoever. Let the Kid get his work in on a regular basis and let him work the kinks out at Gwinnett. Bringing him up because it would make fans happy is not a good enough reason.
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
4:14 pm
He said if it was bad news, he wouldn’t post…
Wait..who said that? News? I think News was just …. someone who gets press wires or a lucky guesser. Definitely do not believe it was anyone who really knows Mac very well because of the harsh words. I mean say if Mac was your brother or your friend and you knew he had fans on a site wanting to know how he was doing would you go over and say “Hey idiots, Heap is fine.” or something like that?
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
4:16 pm
TnBrian – I wasn’t knocking you. It just sucks that all the videos have to come from YouTube…and we dont have a better source.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
4:16 pm
Why is everyone hating on KamaKaze after one bad outing, He was Due…Apparently Many who are on here Hating on Kamakaze Haven’t been watching the games he’s pitched in…That 1-3 record is decieving…2 of those starts he should’ve won if it wasn’t for our Anemic offense…And I believe one of his starts the Blow-pen F-d up his fate as well…
If Fingers need to be pointed, They need to be pointed at our Feast or Famine Offense…
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
4:17 pm
If the Braves had Teixiera or anyone like that they would win….the pitching here is WAAAAYYY better than when Tex was around.
McFann =Ô=
April 27th, 2009
4:18 pm
Run Heap Run–
Yeah, I don’t know who that was…
and you knew he had fans on a site wanting to know how he was doing would you go over and say “Hey idiots, Heap is fine.” or something like that?
No.
Willy Wally
April 27th, 2009
4:20 pm
The baseball season hasn’t truly started until 10Paul slaughters JoJo
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
4:20 pm
Jo-Jo Pitched Good in his outing as well…If the Damn Offense would’ve spotted him some runs early, He wouldn’t be a topic of bashing…Plus in that Game Jo-Jo Pitched against Pittsburgh, The Blow-pen didn’t help him out either…
You can base a man’s season based on only one start as is with the case of Jo-Jo…
Original Jon
April 27th, 2009
4:20 pm
Tomakawkin. Kamakaze??? Really?? Thats kind of offensive dont you think?
ncscoots
April 27th, 2009
4:21 pm
The baseball season hasn’t truly started until 10Paul slaughters JoJo
True, but, it’s good to see him awaken from his slumber.
TennPaul, not JoJo.
Carroll Rogers
April 27th, 2009
4:22 pm
No word yet on BMac, sorry McFann. We’re told he won’t be here until right before game time. The Braves are in their regular season-opening scouting meeting at the moment but hopefully after that Bobby or Frank can give some insight.
Glavine is here and ready to chat with the media after batting practice. So you gotta wait on that one too. Sorry kiddos.
Mitchell
April 27th, 2009
4:22 pm
Carroll, you’re not doggin’ on my boy KK too?
Nowhere in DOB’s story on yesterday’s game did he mention that the six run inning by the Reds was complete bulls***. You can say bull*** in the newspaper can’t you?
KK got completely ripped off. Okay, he hit a batter, that’s not good but then he gets a perfect double play ball from a good hitting Owings (or however you spell it) that hits off the guy’s foot (I wonder if he did that intentionally cause it worked out rather well in their favor). Let’s say it doesn’t hit the guy’s foot and in fact we only get one out and runners are on 1st and 3rd. Then Taveras hits a weak little single which to my naked eye he was out on at first and yet called safe. Much to my lack of surprise he was clearly out on the replay. So that’s a second out we don’t get. The next guy lines out to Jeff and if the runner had gone *he* would have been out on the throw. And then finally with two strikes he gives up the double and the homerun. Fine, that’s on him.
But that was the complete inverse of giving a team extra outs. We had one out after another taken from us. That was a bunch of bs. Had any of those calls gone our way they would have scored one run at the most.
Plus, he didn’t give up a hit until the third inning. The problem with this team lies almost entirely on the offense. Our fundaments leave a lot to be desired as well.
I think Kawakami will be a big piece for us as the old season progresses and hopefully things will start to go his way.
How bout that analysis!
Loaf Garret on a blackberry from the DL
April 27th, 2009
4:22 pm
The Braves do have somebody like Teixiera. Me. Don’t worry kids, I’ll be back soon.
Carroll Rogers
April 27th, 2009
4:23 pm
Ah, but I do have a lineup, and no Cody Ross to be found (aha), but I hear he is quite the Johnny-on-the-spot if you need a late-inning pitcher.
1. Kelly Johnson 2B
2. Yunel Escobar SS
3. Chipper Jones 3B
4. Kotchman 1B
5. Francoeur RF
6. Brandon Jones LF
7. David Ross C
8. Schafer CF
9. Jurrjens
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
4:23 pm
Loaf Garret when are you going to upgrade to an iPhone?
ncscoots
April 27th, 2009
4:24 pm
It’s not that serious if someone disagrees with you, people..
RHR, meet Coach. Enjoy.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
4:25 pm
Carroll you are joking right? Can you give Bobby the link to this blog so he can pick out a better $#@$#@ lineup?
Amanda
April 27th, 2009
4:25 pm
So is it bad news that Glavine isn’t going to talk to the media until after batting practice? Or should we not read anything into that?
Random
April 27th, 2009
4:29 pm
getnathan (10:42 am), (11:40 am), (11:49 am): “Kawakami is getting done in by one bad inning in his starts, so that says to me that the teams catch up to his pitching pattern and hit him. . . . It looks like he’ll pitch 4 scoreless innings and give up 1 or 2 hits, and then in the 5th he’ll give up 3 or 4 runs. . . . It seems like he’ll pitch scoreless ball for four or five innings, but then give up 3 or 4 runs in an inning, thus making his whole start when in actuality he didn’t pitch that badly. . . . “
Doc Holiday (11:50 am): “He has good stuff but second time around he is getting hammered.”
No, not really.
Actually, not at all.
In his first start, against Washington (4/11), Kawakami went 6.0 IP and gave up earned runs in the 1st (1 ER) and 3rd (2 ERs) innings (3 total ERs).
He faced 25 batters. First time thru the line-up, he gave up 2 Hs, 2 BBs and got 3 Ks; 1 ER. 35 total pitches, or 3.88 pitches per batter.
Second time thru, he gave up 2 Hs, 2 BBs and got 3 Ks; 2 ERs. 31 total pitches, or 3.44 pitches per batter.
He pitched to the first 7 batters in the Nats line-up a third time — 0 Hs, 0 BBs and 2 Ks; 0 ERs. 23 total pitches, or 3.29 pitches per batter.
. . .
In his second start, against Florida (4/16), Kawakami went 6.0 IP and gave up earned runs in the 2nd (2 ERs) and 6th (2 ERs) innings (4 total ERs).
He faced 27 batters. First time thru the line-up, he gave up 2 Hs, 1 BB and got 1 K; 2 ERs. 29 total pitches, or 3.22 pitches per batter.
Second time thru, he gave up 2 Hs, 1 BB and got 2 Ks; 0 ERs. 41 total pitches, or 4.56 pitches per batter.
Third time thru, he gave up 1 H, 1 BB and got 4 Ks (the top of the order — batters 1-4); 2 ERs. 39 total pitches, or 4.33 pitches per batter.
. . .
In his third start, at Washington (4/21), Kawakami went 5.0 IP and gave up earned runs in the 2nd (1 ER) and 6th (1 ER) innings (2 total ERs).
He faced 24 batters. First time thru the line-up, he gave up 4 Hs, 1 BB and got 1 K; 1 ER. 40 total pitches, or 4.44 pitches per batter.
Second time thru, he gave up 0 Hs, 2 BBs and got 1 K; 0 ER. 38 total pitches, or 4.22 pitches per batter.
He pitched to the first 6 batters in the Marlins line-up a third time — 3 Hs, 0 BBs and 0 Ks; 1 ER. 15 total pitches, or 2.50 pitches per batter.
See DAP for analysis.
. . .
In his fourth start, at Cincinnati (4/26), Kawakami went 4.2 IP and gave up “earned” runs in the 4th (2 ERs) and 5th (6 “ERs”) innings (8 total “ERs”).
He faced 23 batters. First time thru the line-up, he gave up 0 Hs, 1 BB and got 0 Ks; 0 ERs. 32 total pitches, or 3.56 pitches per batter.
Second time thru, he gave up 4 Hs, 0 BBs and got 1 K; 4 “ERs”. 27 total pitches, or 3.00 pitches per batter.
He pitched to the first 5 batters in the Marlins line-up a third time — 4 Hs, 0 BBs and 0 Ks; 4 “ERs”. 19 total pitches, or 3.80 pitches per batter.
As previously discussed, it was the worst of bad luck that prevented Kawakami from completing a scoreless 5th.
. . .
. . .
Conclusion, throwing out yesterday’s fluky fifth inning, in his first four starts Kawakami has been as good or better the second time thru the opponent’s line-up as he is the first time.
First time — 8 Hs, 5 BBs, 5 Ks, 4 ERs, 3.78 pitches per batter.
Second time — 7 Hs, 5 BBs, 7 Ks, 4 ERs, 3.81 pitches per batter.
And his third time thru the line-up is no worse than his first time (throwing out yesterday’s fluky fifth inning). Thru his first three starts, in which he pitched a third time to 7, 9 and 6 batters respectively (ie, he missed the 7th batter once, and the 8th and 9th batters twice each):
First time — 8 Hs, 4 BBs, 5 Ks, 4 ERs, 3.85 pitches per batter.
Third time — 4 Hs, 1 BB, 6 Ks, 3 ERs, 3.50 pitches per batter.
In this case, familiarity does not breed contempt.
PS: Somebody oughta check my math.
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
4:29 pm
ncscoots – Coach’s posts are too long to hold my interest so if he ever wants to argue with me I’ll probably never see it. All you have to do to get the gist of what Coach’s post is going to be about is read whatever he has in parenthesis out by his name for that day (or that post) and keep moving. No offense, Coach.
I do, however, know that you hate pitch counts. But that’s about it…
Sandlot
April 27th, 2009
4:29 pm
So is it bad news that Glavine isn’t going to talk to the media until after batting practice? Or should we not read anything into that?
I’m wondering the same thing, Amanda. Probably we shouldn’t read anything into it, but… it seems like if things were ok he’d just say so, right? Or is he waiting because he’ll actually be throwing during BP?
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
4:31 pm
Random…I’m sure I would be more enlightened after reading that…but does that mean KK is good?
McFann =Ô=
April 27th, 2009
4:31 pm
Ugh…thanks, Ms. Rogers.
So the waiting continues…why won’t he be there till game time?
Bobby's Cox
April 27th, 2009
4:32 pm
The season doesn’t start until….As Scoots can attest to….I begin to slaughter KJ.
So, in my eyes, the season has started.
And as Tomahawin’ says, you point the fingers at the offense, and at that, you point you fingers at the worse offensive players during the famine. So there, the season is underway…
Breaking News
April 27th, 2009
4:32 pm
This just in….Glavine is done.
Bobby's Cox
April 27th, 2009
4:32 pm
McFann,
Go take a nap and come back in a few hours…
Andy K.
April 27th, 2009
4:32 pm
Bowman says he think Glav has decided not to call it quits and keep comin back.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
4:36 pm
—Origional Jon—…
“Tomakawkin. Kamakaze??? Really?? Thats kind of offensive dont you think?”
Uggghhh, No…I’m not hating on him, but if he turns out be Atlanta Braves Version of “Hideki I-Rob-U”, Then expect the whole blog to be calling him that…
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
4:38 pm
Who think Pujols Runs+RBIs = more than the Braves runs for the series?
Random
April 27th, 2009
4:38 pm
McFann (2:20 pm): “(You voted for Corky? Dang…and you had me believing all that time that you were voting for McCann…oh, this hurts…)”
Nah, not really — just funnin’ witcha.
No, voting for Corky would’ve been a wasted vote — actually, I went with Giovanni.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
4:39 pm
Dammit KJ, Leading off Again…! Not Good, KJ will probably continues to struggle leading off…WTF, Bobby Put KJ down in the Order NOW!
Braves will probably score less than 3 tonight…
Macon Braves (RIP)
April 27th, 2009
4:39 pm
Good grief can we PLEASE do something with the lineup to shake things up a bit at the top!!! This is like freaking Groundhog Day. Kelly and Yunel are RUN PRODUCERS, they should be hitting in spots where they can produce runs. Move Schafer and Kotchman up to the top where their OBP’s can set the table for RUN PRODUCERS!!
Schafer .380 OBP
Johnson .307 OBP
Kotchman .361 OBP .375 SLUG
Escobar .358 OBP .459 SLUG
Johnson and Escobar should be hitting in the meat of the order, where they would be up more often with runners on.
Kotchman is not a freaking cleanup hitter or a middle of the order guy. He should be in the 2 hole where his patience and low strikeouts are most effective in setting the table for the middle of the order.
ncscoots
April 27th, 2009
4:39 pm
Bobby’s, well put, my man, LOL. KC predicts, n8 complains, you rip KJ
. In other news, sun to rise in the east, LOL.
Don’t think I would have it any other way, to tell you the truth.
Leah
April 27th, 2009
4:40 pm
McFann =Ô=:
Just a thought, but if Mac’s just had something that amounts to anything done to his eye then I’m sure he can’t really do anything that he would normally do pertaining to baseball. He probably wants to take extra precaution, too. And he might not be able to drive himself either. Like I said, though, just a thought.
McFann =Ô=
April 27th, 2009
4:42 pm
Bobby’s Cox–
Haha…but I never sleep during the day.
And even if I did, at a time like this it would be impossible!
Random actually, I went with Giovanni.
NNOOOOOOOOOooooooo…
Chop Chop
April 27th, 2009
4:42 pm
Bowman made a comment under that blog that stated the same thing Carroll did (about Glavine talking to the media after BP). He opined that maybe Glavine isn’t hanging them up.
Who knows? In my mind, Glavine has been retired ever since he left the Braves the first time.
McFann =Ô=
April 27th, 2009
4:42 pm
Leah–
Yeah, good point…
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
4:42 pm
This same kind of idiot decisions by Bobby is why he needs to be let go. You dont keep putting the same lineup out there and expect different results! That makes no sense! Now we are all going to have to watch the game….until the Cards score 2-3 runs…and we shut the game off because we know we arent going to be able to match the juggernaut of 2-3 runs.
AndyC
April 27th, 2009
4:43 pm
I’m not hating on Kotch like some people here…but there is no way that he should be hitting cleanup. I would move Frenchy up to fourth. He isn’t a cleanup hitter either but is a better fit than Kotch.
Random
April 27th, 2009
4:44 pm
MFin04 (4:31 pm): “does that mean KK is good?”
Better than he would seem at first glance. He’s had some hard luck.
But the major point I was trying to make is that he does NOT get worse and worse as he goes thru the opponents’ line-ups a second and third time. (Though he does probably tire toward the ends of his starts. Like most pitchers.)
Random
April 27th, 2009
4:46 pm
McFann =Ô= (4:42 pm): “NNOOOOOOOOOooooooo…”
No.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
4:48 pm
How about this logic…put the guy with the most HRs at cleanup. I go to Braves.com…I look it up….
K Johnson 3, Frenchy/Esco/Ross have 2….hmmm….Ross has played the least amount of games….I conclude we hit any of the four….especially KJ or Ross.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
4:48 pm
—AndyC— Your Quote
“I’m not hating on Kotch like some people here…but there is no way that he should be hitting cleanup. I would move Frenchy up to fourth. He isn’t a cleanup hitter either but is a better fit than Kotch.”
I will co-sign on that…I like the 09 version of Frenchy hitting 4th…But Bobby C. May be afraid that he starts trying to do too much and revert to his 2008 ways therefore that’s why Bobby C is reluctant to do so…
But, Man Kotchman scares no one hitting 4th…he’s a 6th or 7th place hitter on a good offensive teams lineup…That’s why I’m still P’d off we didn’t go after Raul Ibanez…He is Clowning in Philly while we put up with slop in LF…I hope B. Jones Impresses the hell outta me…
Knuckle Sandwich
April 27th, 2009
4:50 pm
Teixeira, like A-Rod, is the type of player that always seems to compile his stats when his team is way ahead, or way behind. It’s almost as if he is anti-clutch. Does anybody else see this? I mean, if he is so much of a game changer, why couldn’t he elevate us to a contender before the trade deadline last year?
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
4:50 pm
Bobby might also be afraid of trying to score runs…since this lineup hasnt scored any yet this year!!!!
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
4:52 pm
Knuckle….true about Tex….but Id rather have a guy that anti-clutch with a homer….than anti-clutch with a bunch of singles. On the odd chance he is clutch…your team will score more runs.
Chop Chop
April 27th, 2009
4:53 pm
What did the radar gun look like for Kawakami yesterday? I don’t recall seeing him going higher than 85-86 on fastballs. Of course, the radar gun could have just been screwy.
Chop Chop
April 27th, 2009
4:54 pm
Or I might not have been paying much attention.
Leah
April 27th, 2009
4:55 pm
McFann –
With him not coming to the game until around game time, it makes me wonder if they did do something to his eye. Not sure if that’s the case, though. It could be just that he’s on the DL, but I wouldn’t figure that that would cause him to not come to the game until right before it started.
I do know that extensive eye surgeries can take a lot of out you, depending on the severity of it and what surgery it was. My mom’s had two detached retinas in the same eye (like a decade apart), but her recovery from that was not a fast one and it involved a lot of eye drops several times a day (plus an air bubble that had to dissolve into her eye). It wasn’t slow, but not one of those that is an “up and moving the next day” recovery either.
My brother had a nerve in his eyes adjusted on both sides to keep one of his eyes from moving a certain way that it’s not supposed to (4th Nerve Palsy, I think it’s called). I think he recovered from that in like three or four days, but had stitches in his eyes and what not. Along with the eye drops several times a day also.
But hopefully Mac didn’t have to have anything done that severe or extensive to his eye. Hopefully it was just, at the worst, the Lasik procedure redone/enhanced. I hope we hear something soon, though.
JasonInFL (Formerly ME)
April 27th, 2009
4:56 pm
Hindsight is 20/20 as they say, but I don’t there is any question that the money that went to KK would have been much better served on offense.
Bobby's Cox
April 27th, 2009
4:58 pm
“Don’t think I would have it any other way, to tell you the truth” Scoots
That’s refreshing to hear Scoots. I tried laying off of the subject as long as possible for you, but my temptations got the best of me….Glad you’re accepting me for me…wish the girl would do the same…lol
Bay Area Steve
April 27th, 2009
4:59 pm
Reds feed had KK at about 85, and Owings at 88. I thought it might be off. Anybody know what the Braves side had him at? Same gun?
‘Cause if he can’t locate, at 85….well, we wasted a lotta cash. Actually, if he can’t locate at 90, we wasted a lotta cash.
Bobby's Cox
April 27th, 2009
5:02 pm
Chop Chop,
the radar gun will always be 3-5 mph slower on the road…meaning that if they pointed the thing at Kotchman running to 1st, it would show a negative.
Chop Chop
April 27th, 2009
5:03 pm
Fangraphs.com has him at an average fastball velocity over 90 mph for yesterday’s start. I’ll just split the difference (because I can) and say he was around 87-88.
Chop Chop
April 27th, 2009
5:04 pm
Yeah, Bobby’s Cox. That’s because the radar gun is no longer allowed to take greenies.
Bobby Cox, aka... "Stubborn Donkey"
April 27th, 2009
5:08 pm
HEEEE HAAAWWWW….. the Kellster leading off while Esco behind him, plus having Schaf bat 8th reminds me of the “27 Yanks lineup!! HEEEE HAAAWWWW….. the Kotchster makes one HECK of a cleanup hitter if I may say so my self. He just misses homers 95% of the time he’s up to hit and really stings the tar out of the ball too. HECK of a cleaup guy!!!
Slugger
April 27th, 2009
5:09 pm
I vote everyone on this blog take two weeks and follow another team.
Things found to be universal about MLB:
-Your team has guys that aren’t hitting or aren’t producing.
-Your team has a guy on the farm they want to bring up now (Hanson, ATL; Price, TB; Beckham, CWS; Wieters, BAL)
-Your team’s bullpen blows a game (see FLA against Philly this past weekend)
-Your team sometimes signs a FA starter that sometimes gets off to a rough start
How would you all respond spending 200 MM on players only to have them give up the most runs to start a season nearly ever?
Bobby's Cox
April 27th, 2009
5:09 pm
Bobby’s history with the runs, and with a bottle that rhymes with Atlanta, may have translated to the strategy of wanting to not score much runs while on the baseball field. Brings new perspective to Bobby wanting to improve his pitching staff this past offseason.
BravesfanfromBirth
April 27th, 2009
5:10 pm
I wish for at least one game Bobby Cox would bat Schafer leadoff.. Put KJ in the 8 hole and see if he can drive some runs in from there.. I wish Cox would learn how to shake things up a bit..
Ron Roberts
April 27th, 2009
5:12 pm
For what it’s worth… the fact that NOBODY has gotten off to a torrid start at this point in the season makes me all the MORE encouraged about the Braves’ chances this year. WHEN Brian McCann returns from the DL with his vision corrected, and WHEN we get Garrett Anderson back from his DL stint, knowing that we IMPROVE from a .500 squad, with the bullpen woes (hopefully) in our rear-view mirror, I have to think we’re in good shape at being only 2 games back of the lead.
Furthermore, Jeff Fnracoeur seems to have regained his form, and Jordan Schafer doesn’t seem overwhelmed. Yunel, to me, seems to be more valuable to this team with more experience, and heck, neither Kelly Johnson nor Matt Diaz hasn’t even gotten their bats warmed up, yet. KJ WILL hit – Diaz I’m more concerned about, btu all-in-all, I’m encouraged that we’re hanging in there despite the health woes.
Bobby Cox, aka... "Stubborn Donkey"
April 27th, 2009
5:13 pm
The most beautiful sweet swing in the universe is hitting rockets line drives in the tunnel, by the way. Garret looks like he should be back to form here shortly and our cleaup guy once he gets back. The Kotchster is holding his spot until he feels ready to play and doing a terrific job…. WONDERFUL job!!
richbrave
April 27th, 2009
5:14 pm
Did you have any contact with LAWRENCE SIDBURY JR. DE 4th round? A fellow alum from the UNIVERSITY of RICHMOND and a genuinely good guy. And he’s a math minor specializing in statistics. He’s going to be heard from in A-town. Give up some love for a great football player and kudos to the FALCONS staff for recognizing it….
Glen W
April 27th, 2009
5:16 pm
Everyone could relax a little. I know they are not scoring runs, but the one thing that is hardest to fix in the middle of the season is the lack of starting pitch depth which overexposes a bullpen… not an issue this year. And the one thing that tends to become more valuable (re: the trade market) as the season progresses is starting pitch depth. Look at all of the teams looking for starting pitching now. The bullpen has not been overexposed at all… at all.
I would much rather be 9-9 and not hitting… trying to figure out how to create more runs than to be 9-9 and not pitching and already fatiguing your bullpen
Phiiles problem: SP
Mets problem: SP
Marlins problem: bullpen
Braves problem: offense
Which of these is easiest to address mid-season?
Bobby's Cox
April 27th, 2009
5:16 pm
Have you guys been paying attention? Bobby always shakes things up at least 20 games after fans thinks he should. So, by the end of May, we may have our wish. Be patient….It’s a long season.
McFann =Ô=
April 27th, 2009
5:17 pm
Lew–
Makes me wonder that, too. Yeah, hopefully it was nothing as severe as the surgeries you mentioned…(those sound pretty brutal!)
I hope we hear something real soon, too. If we do, and I’m not on here right away, just assume I’m eating dinner.
Bobby Cox, aka... "Stubborn Donkey"
April 27th, 2009
5:17 pm
fan from birth, shake yo money maker…. sh..sh..shake yo money maker!! This lineup is ready to break out once we face a below average pitche….I mean, once they start hitting like me and Terry know they can.
Choppinmama
April 27th, 2009
5:21 pm
RunHeapRun
re: Terence Moore. He’s been running out to the left coast, appearing on Jim Rome’s show a lot lately. Maybe he’ll go to work out there and we really won’t have to deal with him and his rants unless we really try.
McFann: if you’re chewing your short nails waiting on Slim’s news, you must be up to your elbows right about now.
Can’t blame you, I’ve checked in about 3 times today already to get the 411. Patience is a virtue, right??!!
Slugger
April 27th, 2009
5:22 pm
Knuckle Sandwich -
Actually, you’ll see a pretty negative trend line in relation to Tex’s departure from Atlanta and Atlanta’s W/L ratio.
We blamed Tex because it was easy. Surely he took walks, but do you want him on base or do you want to see him strike out and fall over. There’s a reason Tex get’s paid what he gets paid – he’s not a FLA Marlin.
If Tex was like some of the Marlins, he’d strike out 50-80 more times a year and be a sure 50-60 HR guy every year.
Teams obviously value his .OBP more than the arbitrary ‘clutch’ argument that everyone likes to bring up.
I would have loved to sign Tex to a long term deal, but I’m not going to subvert my dissapointment by knocking his performance as a Brave.
After ‘the run’ ended (playoffs/division title), the Braves had to decide whether to start over or whether to try to keep winning each year. They’ve put is in a good position, as fans, while we wait for the arrival of another generation of talent (while hopefully the ‘baby braves’ generation grow into men/ the lord blesses Brian’s eye).
I like what our Braves have done because anything’s better now than being a Washington Nationals fan. If trends follow, though, the Nationals could be set up to make an eventual run like the Rockies, Marlins, Rays and Braves of 91′ did.
Chop Chop
April 27th, 2009
5:23 pm
I was talking to a fellow student today about the Braves. I told him about some of what goes on over on this blog. He checks out the message boards over at the Braves’ website. As you can imagine, the postings aren’t that different. As far as the team goes, he told me that he’s concerned about middle relief. I told him that I’m more concerned about the similar negative traits (streaky, not much speed, not much power) of the hitters in our lineup. I didn’t have to yell at him in ALL CAPS or bold or italicize my remarks. It was nice to talk to a non-hothead for a change.
One of the main things we both agreed on was that people think of minor league talent like backup QBs in the NFL. Since those kids aren’t up in the big leagues and screwing up, they’re perfect. The backup QB isn’t screwing up when he’s got that clipboard in his hand. It’s also a little (a lot?) like college football recruiting.
For example, we both like Hanson (big strikeout arm, intimidation factor, etc.), but neither of us knows if the guy will be the real deal because he hasn’t had the opportunity. The same goes for Heyward, Freeman, Medlen, or any of our other guys who have never played a big league inning. It’s fun to speculate, but we really don’t have a guarantee. Maybe that’s why I’m infinitely more interested in what’s going on with the big club.
Carroll Rogers
April 27th, 2009
5:23 pm
McCann is home resting his eyes. According to Bobby he’s been at the doctor’s much of the time trying out new contacts, trying to find something that works. The take-home at the moment is that McCann did not have lasik surgery today. Hope to get more info as we go here.
And no, if Glav were about to announce his retirement, I suspect there would be a press conference, not a hey, grab me after bp. I bet he’ll be giving his shoulder another test of some sort. Will update you within the next little bit here.
Bobby's Cox
April 27th, 2009
5:23 pm
Glen W,
Obviously, the offense is easiest to tinker with, especially with guys in-house, by rearranging the lineup or trying some back up guys. That’s why I’m such a stickler on my favorite subject…the bipolar offense, some bipolar bats, and rearranging the lineup in ways that may make some sense to produce more offense (whether it does or not is besides the point, but trying new things is no worse than something already pitiful).
Nonetheless, nice bit of optimism flashed by yourself and Ron Roberts. Wait, is optimism a word? What is optimism anyway?
jacket3
April 27th, 2009
5:25 pm
When are you guys gonna learn that fundamental’s win games. So far this season…I have seen stuff that only little league teams do..
And Bobby….why does he always wait ’till the pitcher gives up 5 runs BEFORE he gives ‘em the hook?
When the brain trust finally addresses those simple issues – we contend for the Pennant EVERY Year!
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
5:40 pm
I wonder if the Braves would trade for Corky Miller if McCann is out for the season
Chop Chop
April 27th, 2009
5:41 pm
I think the Phillies and Mets will get much better pitching out of their starters than they are right now. If “it’s early” for us, then it’s early for them, too.
the real OLD GOLD
April 27th, 2009
5:47 pm
It looks like the strike zone might be bigger in Japan. What a terribly over-hyped import. Frank Wren is a blind dog and his only bone so far is Lowe. Garret Anderson is the new Mike Hampton as he rides the bench with “injuries.” If I hear the word “tweaked” one more time I’m gonna blow a gasket with this guy. Jo Jo Reyes sucks and they won’t let him go and the list goes on. Hurry back Hudson.. we need you buddy.
Bobby's Cox
April 27th, 2009
5:48 pm
I think if we put a patch over Mac’s eye he would still hit better than Corky….
Steve from OH
April 27th, 2009
5:50 pm
Chop Chop–I don’t think Maine or Pelfrey will get back to sub-4.00 ERAs like they have in the past. They’re really struggling. Ollie? Laughable. If they can get it to below 4.5 (which is possible), then the Mets might be in business with that ‘pen and their lineup.
Not confident Old Man Moyer will be able to match his 3.71 he posted last year. What a bad deal that was, eh? Anyhoo, the Phils are in worse shape than the Mets, IMO, especially if Hamels goes down…then they’re screwed, big time. They’d better hope Carlos Carrasco has a dynamite rookie season (probably in a 2nd half callup) if they want to say relevant.
Leah
April 27th, 2009
5:50 pm
Bobby’s Cox -
I think if we put patches on both of Mac’s eyes, he would still hit better than Corky.
monty
April 27th, 2009
5:54 pm
Let’s face it, for all of the BRaves woes this season, being able to push across a couple of more runs in some low scoring games could be the difference in being 9-9 and 13-5. If we could have averaged 5 runs a game in 4 games we lost our record would be remarkably different. I don’t know what the better run scoring teams avg. (I’m sure some on the blog do) but seems to me that our biggest problem isn’t pitching but run production. In the 4 close games we lost we only averaged 1.5 runs per game. It would have taken brilliantly pitched games not to have lost any of them. I’m sure the Braves runs per game avg. is inflated and skewed bacouse of a couple of high scoring games. Take those games out of the equation and you really see how anemic this team is in scoring.
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
5:56 pm
Corky was well liked in the locker room
Couch Tater
April 27th, 2009
5:57 pm
Kelly Johnson is 6 for 9 with 2 HR against Joel Pineiro (3-0, 4.12 ERA). Good day for Kelly to break out of the slump. Kotchman is 0 for 9. Chipper 1 for 6. (St. Louis Post-Dispatch)
Pineiro’s sinker is supposedly improved, expect a lot of ground ball outs unless he leaves it up and we can get to their bullpen.
Scotty
April 27th, 2009
5:57 pm
Swagga jones is in the lineup again!!
Wayne in Utah
April 27th, 2009
6:00 pm
Bobby’s Cox
Optimism, is a concept not found often on the ole blog. The Negative Nellie’s make it hard on the Positive Paul’s around here.
When I see some of the comments, I want to laugh out loud, or cry sometimes, at the absurdity of some of the so called fans.
Like (and I am paraphrasing) “I don’t think Kotchman is going to get any better”.
You’d think that thanks to Al Gore, some on here would actually do some research on some of our players, huh?
Steve from OH
April 27th, 2009
6:00 pm
Piniero has struck out 5 batters in 20 IP this season with a WHIP of nearly 1.5. His sinker had better be damn good to avoid losing with those numbers. He’s as good of a guy as any to break out of a slump against…anyone remeber when he was a promising prospect?
Carroll Rogers
April 27th, 2009
6:02 pm
Glavine is going to give this thing a little bit longer. He played catch yesterday and today and was encouraged by how that felt. He’s still having some pain, but he wants to continue to build back up by throwing long toss and try to get on the mound before this homestand is over to test it. Will file a short here in a sec. Click there too!
Alaska Braves Fan
April 27th, 2009
6:03 pm
The Braves were exactly right to keep Hanson at AAA to begin the season. Every outing he becomes better prepared and better conditioned. He’ll be up soon, probably about the first of June, but this surely was the right course of action. Kawakami’s stuff requires him to be patient and not to become emotional. Remember what Glavine looked like in his heyday? Tommy was not overpowering, and he put men on base a fair bit, but in the end he nibbled the hearts out of the other teams. If Kenshin can make that mental adjustment, he’ll be quite effective. Of course, it remains to be seen whether he can.
TnBrian
April 27th, 2009
6:03 pm
Chop Chop, I’m sure the Mets/Phils rotation will get better…but, how much better are you talking about here? We all know the story with Hamels health and their 2-4 sucks, but what about the Mets 2-4 and how it might be worse than the Phils. Whatever, we have enough things to worry about right now than those two teams. Cards are in town!
Slugger
April 27th, 2009
6:04 pm
Ease/Scoots -
Not every pitch by a pitcher is to exploit a hitters weakness, nor will a pitcher try to exploit the hitter’s weakness in each at bat against said hitter.
Situations (lineup position, who’s hitting behind you, the runners on base) determine everything.
Well, that’s one approach to pitching.
Wayne in Utah
April 27th, 2009
6:04 pm
Steve
Last thing I heard of Pineiro was how he was crying about not getting to start in the WBC. It would be nice if the Braves made him do some crying tonight, huh!
P-Town Brave (Schafer To Leadoff; KJ to 6/7)
April 27th, 2009
6:05 pm
Couch Tater-
Good luck waiting for that to happen…his bender so to speak hasn’t lasted quite long enough for him…
He’ll get back to hitting in about a week and then take the rest of May off…
Interesting to see Bobby didn’t change anything at the top but flipped Ross and Schafer near the bottom…why is the next question..? It can’t be because he expects Schafer to see better pitches because he won’t…
Then again, knowing Bobby, I fully expected Diaz to be back in there in LF even though BJ(that sounds bad) had a decent showing yesterday.
Couch Tater
April 27th, 2009
6:06 pm
Good comparison of Maddux vs. Pedro over at Posnanski’s blog today. If it hasn’t already been mentioned.
nolie
April 27th, 2009
6:06 pm
Oh really? Gee now there is a new one (ROCK ON)
yeah really. The team has next to nothing to do with his inability to get 5 IP in 100 pitches. If you think differently, please explain to us how that is.
monty
April 27th, 2009
6:11 pm
Got to looking at the team stats and noticed that pretty much across the board we ranked 7th, 8th, 9th in most offensive categories (except for SB’s which I believe we are dead last).THe problem as I see it is not that we are a little better than avg. in some categories but that there really isn’t one category where this team excels. The closest thing to excelling is pitching where we ranked 5th in team ERA.
Amanda
April 27th, 2009
6:12 pm
Thanks for the Glavine update, Carroll!
Steve from OH
April 27th, 2009
6:12 pm
Slugger–when I pitched, every pitch had a purpose, usually to set up my next pitch in the sequence (i.e. inside fastball sets up changeup down and away)…of course, I never had scouting reports to work with! That was just my take on pitching, which probably explains why I’m typing about it here and not doing it for a living…
Steve from OH
April 27th, 2009
6:13 pm
Well, that and the three anchors in my shoulder. F’ing hockey…
UGAissolastyear
April 27th, 2009
6:14 pm
It is everything in baseball as it was last year when I cam in here on the last day of April and said they were through. Then a few weeks later ajc ran a poll and 70% of so said they still had a chance? They must be on glue as is everyone who thinks the Braves stand a chance if they continue this dismal April. The pecking order is pretty much set. Washington is already out. Don’t believe me? Come back in 5 months and tell me otherwise! No one did last year!
monty
April 27th, 2009
6:15 pm
This team has averaged 3.2 runs per game in 15 of it’s 18 games. Makes it hard on a pitching staff to hold teams to under 3 runs a game.
Steve from OH
April 27th, 2009
6:18 pm
Washington is already out. Don’t believe me? Come back in 5 months and tell me otherwise! No one did last year!
Wow, bold predictions on the blog. Bold. New. Refreshing. Thank you, sir, you have changed my outlook on life in a single post!
Coach (2010 or bust)
April 27th, 2009
6:21 pm
Brandon Jones was one of their hottest hitters (.308) and he’s up with Atlanta. That leaves a bunch of struggling outfielders: Gregor Blanco is hitting .197 (14-for-71), newcomer Brian Barton is still trying to find his rhythm, he’s hitting .158 (he’s 3-for-19) and right fielders Reid Gorecki (.200, 11-for-55) and Joe Borchard (.119, 5-for-42) are both struggling.
Um Carroll, Joe Borchard was released. Thought you might want to know.
Jake
April 27th, 2009
6:23 pm
Carroll, what are the chances that Bobby will bring up Tommy Hanson just in case Tom Glavine does not recover? And if KK is not the starter that we expect him to be, do you think that he could be a reliver or a good set up man?
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
6:23 pm
Chop chop…do you go to tech?
Chop Chop
April 27th, 2009
6:23 pm
We don’t know the story with Hamels’s health. He got hit with a line drive on his left shoulder in his last start. He struck out six in 3.1 IP in that game before that happened. His velocity was okay.
Oddly enough, if you take a look at PitchFX, Hamels’s fastball velocity this season actually looks a little better than it did in ‘08. Maybe his elbow is mangled, but the velocity looks alright. If the elbow is structurally sound, he’ll get back on track.
Doc Holiday
April 27th, 2009
6:24 pm
monty,
That is a very positive stat, since that talks about a treasure braves have……..pitching. Other NL east teams (except fish) lack of it. In the long run, this is what keeps you in. Besides, we have had lots of injuries already, maybe when we get healthier that run production will get up.
1. GA
2. Chipper
3. Yunel
4. Kotchman
5. Mc
thats 5 key players in the 1st 15 game of the season. Not to mention campillo and glavine in the pitching deparment.
Coach (2010 or bust)
April 27th, 2009
6:26 pm
Monty, our Braves are averaging 4.33 runs per game. There is no nice way to say this. That is brutal.
Chop Chop
April 27th, 2009
6:27 pm
God no, CorkylikesBeer.
I’m finishing up my A.A. (in journalism…hahahaha) down at wonderful Darton College in Albany, Ga. I think I’ll be switching over to communications. My brother’s an ink-stained wretch. The small-town Arkansas paper he works for has been around for 140 years and may give up the ghost soon. There’s too much of that going on now for me to risk sticking with it.
Sandlot
April 27th, 2009
6:28 pm
Thanks very much for the update, Carroll!
Chop Chop
April 27th, 2009
6:28 pm
I’m a Dawg fan.
That explains the “God no.”
McFann =Ô=
April 27th, 2009
6:28 pm
Thanks for the info, Ms. Rogers!
CorkylikesBeer–
Man, don’t go there, please.
Steve from OH
April 27th, 2009
6:29 pm
monty, I hear we’re about two weeks away from acquiring a slugger for the middle of our order: Mc…McCann? Is that it?
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
6:30 pm
Chop..I graduated from UGA, awhile back and fortunate enough to still live in downtown athens….thank god for home/office…go dawgs….
nolie
April 27th, 2009
6:33 pm
We’re still waiting for Hideki Irabu and Kei Igawa to get more comfortable with the American game and ball (WW)
yeah, very few of them have come over and been regular all-stars like they are over there.Makes Ichiro loom even larger, the best player since Sadaharu Oh.probably.
Chop Chop
April 27th, 2009
6:34 pm
I didn’t care about trying to pass college classes when I was 19. I ended up going back at 27. I care now.
Jeff321
April 27th, 2009
6:35 pm
Just caught the ass end of an interview with Blaine Boyer on WGST. Apparently he thinks his “breath of fresh air” is phenomenal.
I guess he didn’t like playing for the greatest manager ever, eh?
nolie
April 27th, 2009
6:36 pm
but Pujols is the greatest hitter in the history of the game. (MF)
maybe if you’re 16. There have been a lot of players who hit as well in eras when offense was much tougher to generate
Coach (2010 or bust)
April 27th, 2009
6:37 pm
Our pitching, 4.24 ERA, ranked 10th.
Our offense, hitting .258, ranked 19th overall, 19th in HR’s and dead last in stolen bases with 3.
But most surprisingly, the defense is ranked 28th with a .979 fielding percentage.
The experts predicted our Braves to finish third in the N.L. East, I think they were right.
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
6:39 pm
It seems like we never hit and run or try to hit the other way..move runners over…
since57
April 27th, 2009
6:40 pm
Yeh, yeh, yeh, it is early – but I think most of us agree that we are in trouble offensively. Mac will be back and that will of course help. We unfortunately know that Chipper will miss more games. The “big bat” that we were in search of never happened and GA is not it. They were out there (Ibanez comes to mind), but FW either didn’t or couldn’t pull the trigger. Maybe someone will fall out early and start unloading, but make no mistake, we are in desperate need of some offense!
MattyRoss
April 27th, 2009
6:42 pm
Hey cabravesfan or anyone else that might know, is there a way to watch the Braves PTV and/or Sport South broadcasts on directv if you’re out of market? Do I have to order something special? I’m a directv noob and already have the mlb.tv package, but thought it might be worth asking…
Cherokee
April 27th, 2009
6:43 pm
Joe Morgan is very insightful and gives a good analysis B C
that’s one of the funniest posts I have ever read. way to go
Chop Chop
April 27th, 2009
6:43 pm
Blaine Boyer’s a lucky man. He’s gone from playing for the best manager ever to a genius.
In fact, when Blaine is dead, they’ll talk about what a lucky man he was.
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
6:47 pm
I wonder if I will get to see Andruw Jones this weekend..going to a Rangers Game
P-Town Brave (Schafer To Leadoff; KJ to 6/7)
April 27th, 2009
6:47 pm
Monty-
Is there where I say that the 2 games Kelly didn’t start we scored 8 and 11 and in those games his replacements were 4 for 7 w/ 2 2b, hr, and 3 rbi.
That certainly elevates the per game RS average…
And yes, I agree…holding a team under 3 is difficult, especially when all things being considered, a quality start by a pitcher is 6 IP+ and 3 runs or less…so if (blank) throws 6 IP and gives up 3 or 2 (or even 0 like Jair did in Washington) they most likely get either a no decision or even a loss with our anemic offense…
Things need to be altered in a way where the players that are placed on the field are comfortable in their spots in the order and know their roles…
That will never happen w/ Kelly batting 1, Kotchman batting 4, and Schafer batting 7 or 8…
For example:
Casey Kotchman only had 22 AB’s in the cleanup spot before he came to Atlanta….what does that tell you?
Kelly now is hitting .265 (yes with a .350 OBP) BUT he also only has 9 SB out of 16 attempts (less than ideal) AND strikes out in the leadoff spot once in every 5 AB’s AND he’s only batting .214 when leading off the game.
That being said, a couple good stats for Kelly to look at would be this:
When swinging at the 1st pitch in an AB or at 1-0 in a count, Kelly is batting over .350 (.370 OBP/ .600+ SLG) which means if the first pitch is a strike he should be hacking, AND
Batting 7th in the lineup has produced these results over 170 AB’s…(.331 .406 .538)…very VERY good numbers, which show why he should bat around this spot in the order so he can relax and just hit.
Finally, Jordan Schafer…lots of us have been clamoring for him to be up in the leadoff spot…besides the KJ numbers I just presented, Jordan had a +.370 OBP the last 2 years in the minors (mainly from the leadoff spot) AND stole 20+ bases in a full season between 2 A clubs and 12 last year in a 1/2 season at AA.
Jordan will bring speed and different intangibles to the 1 slot…Plus it will return him to his better suited spot and more aggressive nature…
There’s no sense in creating a lineup and having all your players in all the wrong slots…
That would be like sticking Chipper in the leadoff hole or moving him to RF (to a lesser degree, but you get the point)…
These things are just not smart baseball and not smart for a team IF it wants to play winning baseball.
Feel free to tear this down, but there isn’t a single stat or single point I put in this that I didn’t research to the fullest.
Hope to get a win tonight, but it will be an uphill battle against a team that scores plenty of runs when we haven’t built a lineup with the ability to do so over more than a 1-2 game stretch…
Coach (2010 or bust)
April 27th, 2009
6:48 pm
Chop Chop , it will definitely be interesting to see if Blaine Boyer can get back on track under the guidance of Tony La Russa and Dave Duncan.
P-Town Brave (Schafer To Leadoff; KJ to 6/7)
April 27th, 2009
6:49 pm
Just now watching an Albert Pujols highlight reel and realized how much I will cringe tonight every time we HAVE TO pitch to him
St Louiee Woman
April 27th, 2009
6:50 pm
Braves are gonna have the St Louiee Blues the next three games.
Wayne in Utah
April 27th, 2009
6:50 pm
Chop Chop
Lucky Man! Love it!
Amanda
April 27th, 2009
6:52 pm
MattyRoss – You’d have to have the MLB Extra Innings package if you are out of market. Otherwise, the games would be blacked out. I live in AZ and have Extra Innings and also have the DirecTV Sports Pack, which gets me all the regional sports channels (including SportsSouth). Having the Sports Pack would allow you to see stuff like the pre & post game shows, but unless you have Extra Innings, the game itself would be blacked out.
cabravesfan
April 27th, 2009
6:53 pm
MattyRoss
I have the MLB package on DirecTV…it is kinda pricey but totally worth it. I get every game except the Saturday day games (don’t ask- I will spare the rest of the blog my weekly rant agains FOX), including Peachtree.
Bobby's Cox
April 27th, 2009
6:54 pm
“Is there where I say that the 2 games Kelly didn’t start we scored 8 and 11 and in those games his replacements were 4 for 7 w/ 2 2b, hr, and 3 rbi” P-Town
P-Town,
I threw those same stats up there last year. Didn’t do any good. Btw, me and you seem to be on the same side of almost every argument.
P-Town Brave (Schafer To Leadoff; KJ to 6/7)
April 27th, 2009
6:54 pm
You guys are lucky….I have to listen and watch the stupid Cardinals broadcast tonight!
P-Town Brave (Schafer To Leadoff; KJ to 6/7)
April 27th, 2009
6:56 pm
BC- Yeah, I do believe I have noticed some of your statements…good arguments as well…
Oh, and just to mention they’ve already completely botched Jurrjens in the pre-game on the Cardinals broadcast.
Finally, Lohse will make his scheduled start tomorrow, so that being said, should we may be pray for rain?
P-Town Brave (Schafer To Leadoff; KJ to 6/7)
April 27th, 2009
6:58 pm
WoW…after listening to Al Hrabosky and Chris Berman, I may have to rethink my top 5 most annoying broadcasters!
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
6:59 pm
MattyRoss – Where do you live? PTV Braves is channel 651 on my Direct TV. But I’m in the southeast.
Good news about Glav. Still looking back for the Mac news.
Coach Coach anyone
April 27th, 2009
6:59 pm
Enter your comments here
ncscoots
April 27th, 2009
7:01 pm
Situations [in the game] determine everything [about the pitcher's approach]
Of course, it does. Never implied differently. The line I read said the pitcher would not pitch to the hitter’s weakness in order to get ahead of the hitter, which is bass-effing-ackwards. I also said I must have missed some of the exchange. Whatever the case, the guy has a hole in his swing? I’m throwing a boatload of pitches there, first inning, third, fifth, whenever, until he shows me he can put in a cork in it.
Jennifer
April 27th, 2009
7:02 pm
Are ya ready for some baseball?!?!?
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
7:02 pm
Predictions for tonights game?
7-1 Cardinals.
P-Town Brave (Schafer To Leadoff; KJ to 6/7)
April 27th, 2009
7:03 pm
Scoots-
You mean like Edwin Encarnacion, who for the life of could absolutely NOT hit an inside running 2-seamer, BUT…
We manage to pitch to Jay Bruce instead and give up a 2-run HR…
Regardless of language barrier, KK should at least know what a scouting report is shouldn’t he?!
braves fan
April 27th, 2009
7:03 pm
Gee stephen glad u think highly of the braves
Budweiser Presents Real Men Of Genius
April 27th, 2009
7:04 pm
Today, we salute you Mr. Turn a Two Hour Game Into a Three Hour Game, lefty after lefty, right after righty, you motion to the pen, I use six relievers a night, yes, we salute you, Mr. Larussa
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
7:05 pm
Stephen..the braves are favored by 1.5 runs…
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
7:06 pm
—Stephen—
I’m Gonna One-Up your prediction and say we lose by 1 run…Gotta go out in Style…
4-3 Cards, unless we come out with our A Game early…
Memo To Bobby C. Don’t Let That Fck..g Pujols Beat You, gotta avoid him at all costs…
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
7:07 pm
WainWright For J.D. Screw, Burger King, And Eli Marrero, I’d like to re-do that trade…!
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
7:08 pm
Corky, who in God’s name would favor the Braves by 1.5 runs?
monty
April 27th, 2009
7:09 pm
P Town
I agree with your assessment. Schafer is our most dynamic baserunner and he doesn’t even get a chance to get on base until the 2nd or 3rd inning and then again in the 5th or 6th innings generally speaking.
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
7:09 pm
I bet on the cardinals….got 1.5 points…the over/under for the game is 9 runs.
mustrdgasnroses
April 27th, 2009
7:09 pm
I’ll go in on those predictions:
5-2, Braves
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
7:10 pm
Man What A Sparse Crowd at the Ted…I guess People are took heed to my boycott suggestion…And Not go to the Games…
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
7:12 pm
Man Afer Hearing about all the stats about the cardinals offense…This Cardinals offense scares me…We better not be giving these guys extra outs to play with or we are gonna get our As..s handed to us…
braves fan
April 27th, 2009
7:13 pm
so is this how this goes…. when the braves are doing good everyone loves them. when they are sucking everyone hates them? is that a true fan?
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
7:13 pm
Late arriving crowd…tomahawkin..cardinals have a huge following like the braves
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
7:13 pm
Lol, a major league chess match. That’s a good one.
Braveheart
April 27th, 2009
7:14 pm
Slugger–when I pitched, every pitch had a purpose, usually to set up my next pitch in the sequence (i.e. inside fastball sets up changeup down and away) (STEVE FROM OHIO)
All I did was chuck it as hard as I could as long as I could, keep the ball down, and only come up to letter them for strike three. Wish I could claim a better strategy than that, but I had a hard enough time throwing strikes to worry too much about location, other than to keep it down
Braveheart
April 27th, 2009
7:15 pm
Were Escobar’s feet trapped in cement on that play?
Carroll Rogers
April 27th, 2009
7:15 pm
Wow JJ just hit 95 on the gun on his second pitch to Pujols. 94 the last time. 95 again. Either he is really jacked up or the gun is!
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
7:16 pm
Pujols is special…what is his value on fangram
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
7:16 pm
Pujols is only 29? What? I don’t know why I thought he was more like 35.
Niiiiceeeeee JJ.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
7:16 pm
Nice Dealing, Going after Pujols, That was Sick!
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
7:16 pm
JJ just K’d Pujols. I’ll tkae it.
Chop Chop
April 27th, 2009
7:17 pm
He was thinking about Kelly, Braveheart.
Time to go enjoy some baseball. Have fun, folks.
Mixxo
April 27th, 2009
7:17 pm
braves fan – No, it’s a fairweather fan. Real fans (like me and many others here) hate losing, but we suck it up and lace ‘em up for another day.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
7:17 pm
Dammit! I had a feeling that JJ would think he was out of the woods after Facing Pujols, which isn’t the case
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
7:18 pm
Good to see a lot of swings and misses, maybe Jair can keep this up all night and Piniero will walk in a couple of runs. ^^
Rob from SC
April 27th, 2009
7:19 pm
chit
The_Superhoo
April 27th, 2009
7:19 pm
Bad choice on the throw to home. Doesn’t look like B Jones has the arm?
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
7:19 pm
And here we go.
Rob from SC
April 27th, 2009
7:19 pm
gotta get Molina
CHUCK
April 27th, 2009
7:20 pm
Anybody know why the game isn’t on ESPN. TV guide says thats whats on but it isn’t?
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
7:20 pm
Quick! Name that Molina!
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
7:20 pm
Too early to call this one?
braves fan
April 27th, 2009
7:21 pm
I agree Mixxo. I have been fans of the braves for many of years, they hurt my feelings but i still watch them and root for them
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
7:21 pm
Dammit! 26 pitch inning, but at least limited the damage… It may be a long Night for Double J, This offense Needs to come out Early, we can’t wait til the 7th inning to start trying to manufacture runs…
The_Superhoo
April 27th, 2009
7:21 pm
CHUCK – The game IS on ESPN. Are you in the ATL area? If so it’s on a different channel.
braves fan
April 27th, 2009
7:21 pm
where do u live at chuck?
bravefaninok
April 27th, 2009
7:22 pm
it’s on espn here.
TnBrian
April 27th, 2009
7:23 pm
Me and a FEW others on here were ranting during the offseason hoping the Braves would trade KJ for Ludwick, but got bashed by some saying Ludwick’s ‘08 was a fluke.
I hate the Cards!!
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
7:24 pm
KJ Come On…! He Needs to be down in the Order Now!
The_Superhoo
April 27th, 2009
7:24 pm
Would have been out, but Kelly didn’t run through the bag… :-/
Daybed Wagmoe
April 27th, 2009
7:24 pm
You heard it here first: Francoeur goes yard tonight.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
7:24 pm
Good thing KJ is still leading off….setting the table for the big bopper.
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
7:25 pm
I’ll call it after I see this inning…
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
7:25 pm
Esco setting the table well for Chipper too. Bobby is a dumb #@$@# or he doesnt watching the games.
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
7:25 pm
Let’s swing at the first pitch so Pineiro can go 9 innings with a 70 ish pitch count.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
7:26 pm
MFIN04 Your Quote
“Good thing KJ is still leading off….setting the table for the big bopper.”
I hope You were Joking…?
WTF! 6-Pitch Inning…Come On Offense!
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
7:26 pm
I called that inning about 5 hours ago. I’m calling it…time of loss 7:26 (est)
The Big Bopper
April 27th, 2009
7:27 pm
Hellooooooooooooooooooooo, baby. Yes. This is the Big Bopper speaking. Oh, you sweet thang! Do I what? Will I what? Oh, baby, you knooooooooooooow what I like!
JasonInFL (Formerly ME)
April 27th, 2009
7:27 pm
Over/under on runs scored tonight?
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
7:28 pm
How stupid do you have to be….Bobby? This lineup has not scored runs. Esco and KJ arent working as they are in this lineup. We need to score early before JJ just quits pitching for this team.
P-Town Brave (Schafer To Leadoff; KJ to 6/7)
April 27th, 2009
7:29 pm
Things that were wrong about our 1st inning:
1) Kelly made another rather easily weak out on a hittable pitch
2) Yunel grounds out sharply on a VERY hittable pitch that should’ve been put down in the LF corner (he’s still getting out on his front foot too quickly; needs a better timing mechanism)
3) They didn’t want to pitch to Chipper, nor did they have to, but he gave away another AB and got himself out on a 2-0 pitch that would’ve been Ball 3.
a643dp
April 27th, 2009
7:29 pm
Bobby Cox sucks why the hell does he continue have KJ leadoff. Prado is rotting on the bench. I dont it get and from the sounds of it BOB COX is the only one that gets it. Makes me not want to watch this crap. Lead off men set the tone and Kelly is freakin tone deaf!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Daybed Wagmoe
April 27th, 2009
7:29 pm
8-pitch inning for Pineiro in the first
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
7:29 pm
Jason;
http://blogs.ajc.com/atlanta-braves-blog/2009/04/27/how-important-is-a-winning-april/comment-page-4/#comment-70209
TnBrian
April 27th, 2009
7:29 pm
The last few comments will be in the millions by the time the year is up. Bobby ain’t changing squat, so get over it! You have to feel for JJ though if that first inning is any indication of how our hitters appraoch Pinero.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
7:30 pm
—JasonInFl—
I’m Calling for 3 With this Crappy offense, and I’m putting it lightly calling it crappy…
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
7:30 pm
I agree!
Wet Blanket
April 27th, 2009
7:30 pm
Simply because of the way the Cards are playing, this series may be a good indicator of where the Braves are right now. Cards are playing pretty good ball. The Nats are bad. The Marlins were hot but maybe going in the wrong direction now. The Pirates were a surprise. The Reds have their problems.
The Cards are a solid team. If the Braves can play a solid series against the Cards, it should give us an indication of the potential of this team, either good or bad.
That being said, it may tell us absolutely nothing about what the picture will look like in a month.
David Eckstein
April 27th, 2009
7:30 pm
I sprint to first, Chip. Don’t you…forget about me.
Carroll Rogers
April 27th, 2009
7:31 pm
And yes I missed the Borchard release. Fixed that.
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
7:31 pm
Typical braves half inning at the plate. Dont make the pitcher throw strikes swing at tough pitches and 3 up and 3 down.
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
7:31 pm
Too early to call the no-no?
Mark in PA
April 27th, 2009
7:31 pm
Corky, if Matt Diaz gets a pitch low and away with two strikes, you will definitely see Andruw batting.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
7:31 pm
Chipper always gives away at bats with 2 outs and no one on. Happened all year so far. Dont blame him though…Kotchman aint gonna drive him in. We should trade JJ for his sake. He doesnt deserve this bad of an offense. He is already walking guys because he knows the game is over.
Little Red Bird
April 27th, 2009
7:32 pm
Jurrjens is good…BUT…can he withstand the contemporary equivalent of murderers row?
We shall see!
P-Town Brave (Schafer To Leadoff; KJ to 6/7)
April 27th, 2009
7:32 pm
a643dp-
Kelly needs to go to Belltone or whatever that company is now…maybe go see Simon Cowell…because yeah, no tone is there…
Maybe we should call the paramedics and try to resuscitate him…
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
7:33 pm
Come On Double J, He’s Gonna be out after 5 because the Cardinals are working his counts up by not being overaggressive…I wish the Braves would do more of this. I hope They are taking notes on how to run an efficient offense, because what we got now ain’t cutting it…
TnBrian
April 27th, 2009
7:34 pm
The announcers need to quit whining about the sun peeking through the stands because it obviously hasn’t affected the other pitcher in the other game and so far, in this one, so…
Little Red Bird
April 27th, 2009
7:34 pm
“When you play for LaRussa, you have to do the little things to stay on the roster…”
Cox? maybe not so much.
Joe Morgan Sucks
April 27th, 2009
7:34 pm
The braves need to take some notes. The cardinals first swing of the inning was on JJ’s 10th pitch
CHUCK
April 27th, 2009
7:34 pm
Thanks for the response ya’ll. I live in Columbus, MS but ESPN NEWS is on instead of the game. Very annoying! Says its on but its not.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
7:35 pm
We should have hired Tony L when he was thinking of leaving St Louis. Walk..bunted people over…wish we could do that.
Flirtin' With Disaster
April 27th, 2009
7:35 pm
If JJ keeps getting behind these guys, we could see another snowman like the Reds threw on Kawakami yesterday.
UGAissolastyear
April 27th, 2009
7:35 pm
Yes Steve from OH they are – and Braves will be soon (ie in 4 days) if they continue as they have. The point, which was tough for you to get, is that April defines the Braves as it did last year. 70% of you thought they still had a chance last May. The same 70% (you included), when asked in a few weeks the same question would answer ‘yes’.
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
7:35 pm
Can we trade chipper, KJ, and Kotchman for Pujols
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
7:36 pm
Hitters working the count, I’ve never seen something so mesmerizing.
Frank from KS
April 27th, 2009
7:36 pm
Phillips just made a interesting comment a few minutes ago.
He said the Braves just don’t have any speed to manufacture runs and made a comment about Ellsbury stealing home the other night for the R. Sox.
WOW….how long did it take you Stevo to figure that one out, eh?
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
7:36 pm
Man This Is gonna Be a long Night…!
Little Red Bird
April 27th, 2009
7:36 pm
LaRussa has a strong peer relationship with Bobby Knight.
Bobby Cox, on the other hand, has a strong peer relationship with Floyd the barber.
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
7:36 pm
2-0 game over
TnBrian
April 27th, 2009
7:37 pm
2-0! Ball Game…seriously, ball game.
Mixxo
April 27th, 2009
7:37 pm
Ohhh maaaaaan!
Walks are coming home to roost!
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
7:37 pm
Look at that…got guys over…and got them in. The Cardinals play baseball correctly ever year/every play. Love watching them. JJ got himself into this mess by walking guys…and now Pujols is up.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
7:37 pm
Stephen May be Right on his Prediction…Because I already see quit on this team…LaRussa is gonna School Cox this Series…
Edward
April 27th, 2009
7:37 pm
Awesome…..jair has to have like 50 pitches already….jeez.. not going to last to the 6th
TnBrian
April 27th, 2009
7:38 pm
Don’t sweat it JJ, you never had a chance with the offense that “supports” you anyways!
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
7:38 pm
Ok guys, Pineiro’s pitch count for next inning?
Gonna go with 8.
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
7:39 pm
Losing 2-0 to the Cards and Pujols 0-2. Now if our offense can get going….
Little Red Bird
April 27th, 2009
7:39 pm
“Can we trade chipper, KJ, and Kotchman for Pujols”?
We don’t want Chipper, KJ, or Kotchman!
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
7:39 pm
JJ getting out the guys he shouldnt get out…and walking those he should. Not a good sign. Still…2-0….team should be in the game…but isnt with this lineup…and Bobby wont change it….dumb butt.
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
7:39 pm
Hanley Ramirez hit by pitch and taken out of game anyone see how bad it is or where he got hit?
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
7:39 pm
Jason..the over/under on the game is 9 runs…the cardinals are getting 1.5 runs thus the Braves are favored by 1.5 runs…I took the Cardinals
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
7:40 pm
I say under 8 pitches this inning for Pinerio.
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
7:41 pm
A DOUBLE? Holy crap did it go out of the park?
Jeff321
April 27th, 2009
7:41 pm
Now would be an excellent time for the Kotchman haters to come out of the woodwork!
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
7:41 pm
Tony is in a lot better shape then Bobby…
Mixxo
April 27th, 2009
7:41 pm
Tn Brian- Hate to say it, but I’m afraid you’re right.
Hey! A double…..so far.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
7:41 pm
Bout Fck-ing Time Kotchman Does Something, Now Just Do It with runners on…!
a643dp
April 27th, 2009
7:41 pm
No Way Kotchman should be batting earlier in the lineup LOLOLOLOL
Little Red Bird
April 27th, 2009
7:41 pm
Umps give the Braves one in an attempt to keep the game competitive.
Carroll Rogers
April 27th, 2009
7:41 pm
that’s 48 pitches for Jurrjens in first two innings.
1995
April 27th, 2009
7:42 pm
Is it me or do the other Braves players look annoyed when Schafer calls them off? I love that he does that and takes control like a real CF should do.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
7:42 pm
Hit the bat boy…or it would have been a single.
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
7:42 pm
Way to get the runner over Jeff.
1995
April 27th, 2009
7:42 pm
That was last season Jeff swinging for the fence.
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
7:42 pm
Terrible at bat to not get runner to 3rd with one out.
Flirtin' With Disaster
April 27th, 2009
7:43 pm
MF04
Wife and I were having that conversation in the first inning. I told her I was scared that since he K’ed Pujols he would let up on the next hitter. He did and gave up the run scoring hit to Ludwig.
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
7:44 pm
Would have scored a run there had JF gotten the runner over.
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
7:44 pm
McCanns!
Jeff321
April 27th, 2009
7:44 pm
It looks like BJ knows how to advance a runner..
Frank from KS
April 27th, 2009
7:44 pm
Ya know, the clip of Big Mac hitting #61 that ESPN’s shows as part of their 20th anniversary intro……I was watching that game on Fox that night and literally cried.
That’s how big of a moment it was to me. I thought it was pretty classy to see Grace swing his glove toward McGwire’s backside as he started his trot around the bases afterwards.
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
7:45 pm
McCans…have a “can”
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
7:45 pm
What is the quickest way to get drunk?
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
7:45 pm
Marlins down 6-1 to the Mets in the 1st. Phils and Nats tied 2-2.
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
7:46 pm
Frank..you are a cry baby….
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
7:46 pm
MF, go to the store and buy a bunch of sudafed, be it pills or liquid. Just drink/eat the entire pack.
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
7:46 pm
McCan who?
Yes Ross!
Jeff321
April 27th, 2009
7:46 pm
I told ya’ll Dave Ross can hit! WOOOOOO!
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
7:46 pm
Nice Attaboy! D-Ross!
Flirtin' With Disaster
April 27th, 2009
7:46 pm
Way to go Ross!
The_Superhoo
April 27th, 2009
7:47 pm
ATTA BOY ROSS! What a backup!
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
7:47 pm
Leadoff double should score most of the time…but the Braves…dont want the one run. We wont take runs when given to us.
Little Red Bird
April 27th, 2009
7:47 pm
McCann has cabbage growing in his eye. He’s the cabbage patch catcher.
No, wait, he’s got a mote in his eye. They think, they haven’t done a biopsy yet.
No. No. It’s pastry items. They are on sale in McCann’s eye.
Mixxo
April 27th, 2009
7:47 pm
D Ro! Atta baby!
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
7:47 pm
A backup catcher that can hit. My eyes decieve me.
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
7:47 pm
See ya! I like this Ross kid. Too bad he can’t play…..RF? 2B? when McCann comes back.
a643dp
April 27th, 2009
7:47 pm
Damn he should have stayed at 1st
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
7:47 pm
Mcfann…Ross is going to make the Braves forget McCann……
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
7:47 pm
I said It before and I will say it again, The Ross Acquistion was the most underrated move the Braves made in the Offseason…
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
7:48 pm
Well, there’s my run for the prediction
a643dp
April 27th, 2009
7:48 pm
Why would they pitch to Jordan?
Choppinmama
April 27th, 2009
7:48 pm
Big Bopper: Chantilly lace and a pretty face, and a sweet line-drive, goin’ down the line……………..
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
7:48 pm
Hmm we have no idea why Ross isnt batting cleanup. I guess because he is slugging like 900
Little Red Bird
April 27th, 2009
7:48 pm
Ross is something. I always thought Marion Ross was the best character on Happy Days.
a643dp
April 27th, 2009
7:49 pm
Tony has always been unconventional
The_Superhoo
April 27th, 2009
7:49 pm
“Why would they pitch to Jordan?” because he’s a strike out machine right now, and they can make the pitcher lead off in the next inning.
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
7:50 pm
MF, you gonna grab some Sudafed? It’ll get you wasted.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
7:50 pm
We didnt want Ross to score anyways!!!
TnBrian
April 27th, 2009
7:50 pm
Yunel and Kelly look like somebody shot their dog, or stuck a knife in their banana boat, when things aren’t going the teams/their way.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
7:50 pm
Sudafed…like for meth? Or just pill form for a cold?
TNScott
April 27th, 2009
7:51 pm
Well, it’s 2-0 now. Their lead off hitter has been on twice. Ours grounded out after his second pitch. We’re making it way too easy for Peniero. Before Ross’s at bat the most pitches that Peneiro had thrown to any one batter was three. It’s amazing what can happen when you make a pitcher pitch, Good at bat Ross. Even if you get behind 0-1in the count, it doesn’t mean you’re inclined to swing at every pitch that follows.
a643dp
April 27th, 2009
7:52 pm
Id rather have Kelly Leading off than JJ if im the Cardinals.
Flirtin' With Disaster
April 27th, 2009
7:52 pm
a643dp
Because LaRussa is a pro-active manager. He wants to control the game instead of letting the game control him. Sometimes it works out sometimes it doesn’t. Now the Braves have the pitcher leading off the next inning.
Now the antithesis of the pro-active manager? A guy who lets the game play him? A guy who hardly ever hits and runs, tries to steal, even with a lead and a fast guy on? A guy who prays for a 3 run HR?
That guy is sitting in the other dugout.
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
7:52 pm
No, not meth, lol. Just look on the back of the box for an ingredient called dextromethorphan. Do some research before you try it, but it’ll make these games watchable ;P
Choppinmama
April 27th, 2009
7:53 pm
McFann: what a team guy. He’s NOT home resting the eye, he strapped on the leotard and is at the game, supporting his teammates. No patch though, which is what I’ve been expencting. That’s a good sign.
Little Red Bird
April 27th, 2009
7:53 pm
The Cardinals cloned Paul Bunyan and he is playing half the positions on the team.
I think Babe is in the Atlanta dugout.
Mixxo
April 27th, 2009
7:53 pm
Nice catch Logan
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
7:53 pm
Way to go kid, *cue star wars theme*
Rob from SC
April 27th, 2009
7:53 pm
I wonder what Schafer can do to combat that pitch. The up and in pitch looks so hard to hit. Even harder to drive.
Great catch
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
7:53 pm
JJ struggling with the control here, would be nice if the offense can pick him up. Good play by the kid, almost thought that would get over his head.
The_Superhoo
April 27th, 2009
7:54 pm
NICE CATCH LOGAN!
vabravesfan
April 27th, 2009
7:54 pm
go get it kid
braves need to win this series
April 27th, 2009
7:54 pm
siap and i am sure it has been mentioned already….but i wish we could have somehow made the trade for ludwick.
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
7:54 pm
Best play of the year for Jordan..finally…
Jeff321
April 27th, 2009
7:54 pm
Nice catch by Schafer.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
7:54 pm
THATABOY ATLEAST SCHAFER KNOWS HOW TO PLAY CF IN ATLANTA!!!!
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
7:54 pm
Getty Up Jordan!!! LOL, I love Chip. I still get scared Everytime I see a hard hit ball hit to center…
mbatl
April 27th, 2009
7:55 pm
I may be wrong (wouldn’t be the first time!), but I really don’t want my 5 and 6 hitters trying to advance a runner to 3rd in the 2nd inning.
Francouer hit the ball well, which is what he should’ve done… did you guys want him to try to hit a ground ball to the right side? Really?
And I’m not certainly not criticizing Brandon for moving the runner over, but with a man on 2nd and 1 out, that was not (hopefully) his priority.
I’m all for the Braves being more patient at the plate, but I think we can get a little too obsessed with some of this “moving the runners” stuff. Middle of the lineup should try to get hits with RISP, especially early in the game.
Little Red Bird
April 27th, 2009
7:55 pm
“A guy who prays for a 3 run HR?”
Bobby’s praying for a five run homer. He wants a miracle.
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
7:55 pm
He should’ve dived after he caught it like the Cincinnati outfielders did to make their mediocre catches look decent.
Frank from KS
April 27th, 2009
7:55 pm
Hey CorkylikesBeer
Well…I guess you have no understanding of the history of this game.
That moment was pretty big…TYVM!! I’ve been a baseball fan all my life and when something as someone breaking the single season HR record happens…..ya can’t help but get a little bit emotional.
The_Superhoo
April 27th, 2009
7:56 pm
Another good play by Schafer. Not spectacular, but he had the composure to go for the smart play, not the impossibly spectacular one.
JasonInFL (Formerly ME)
April 27th, 2009
7:57 pm
can’t watch the game…too cheap to buy the MLB package with not being home every night…but, JJ obviously doesn’t have it tonight.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
7:57 pm
Schafer did a good job to keep that a single and not do too much.
The_Superhoo
April 27th, 2009
7:58 pm
See ya, Moe-leena!
fsubravesfan10
April 27th, 2009
7:58 pm
Cannon from ross
TNScott
April 27th, 2009
7:58 pm
Nice throw. Rossy!!!
Jeff321
April 27th, 2009
7:58 pm
Dave Ross is the real defensive specialist! Maybe we can get a refund for that phony Corky Miller.
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
7:58 pm
Frank..i guess you are so right…..since he was voted in the hall of fame first ballot….(sarcasm)
Frank from KS
April 27th, 2009
7:58 pm
Nice throw Mr. Ross!!!!
Little Red Bird
April 27th, 2009
7:58 pm
Yadier is by far the fastest of the flying Molinas.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
7:58 pm
Can McCann play first base or left field…because Ross is a Hoss!!!!
Flirtin' With Disaster
April 27th, 2009
7:59 pm
First inning or 6th inning, I like fundamental, “get em on, get em over, get em in” baseball. If you can do that routinely throughout the entire season, I feel like you’ll win more games than you will playing for the 5 run inning and coming up with nothing.
TNScott
April 27th, 2009
8:00 pm
The only good thing about JJ leading off the inning is that we don’t have to watch KJ lead off the inning.
Little Red Bird
April 27th, 2009
8:00 pm
The Braves should try to make Pineiro throw 42 pitches this inning.
Then he’ll have as many as Jair.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:00 pm
Jair looking to go yard…cuz his team cant score runs.
McFann =Ô=
April 27th, 2009
8:00 pm
CorkylikesBeer–
No, he won’t. But he is good. I like him…great throw, BTW.
Choppinmama–
Oh yeah–that’s why we love ‘im!
Was half-expecting a patch, myself. But yeah, good sign that there’s isn’t one.
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
8:01 pm
Haha TnScott, true that.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:02 pm
Hey Bobby…KJ gonna leadoff tomorrow night too?
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
8:02 pm
Please bobby give Kelly a day off.
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
8:02 pm
Yes by all means, let’s go down on 4 or 5 pitches.
Kelly Johnson
April 27th, 2009
8:02 pm
Hello, I’m Kelly Johnson and I like to roll over easily hittable pitches when ever I come up to the plate. Make sure you eat your wheaties kids, and maybe one day YOU can be as good as I am.
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
8:02 pm
Some of you need to go back and slowly scroll through the posts and read how negative this blog has become. I’m sick of you morons who think you know more than Bobby Cox and ever other coach on the coaching staff. If you so good, why are you sitting here typing on the computer? Go get a job coaching little league or go back to school and get a degree in coaching so you can go show the world how smart you are with your winning teams lining up year after year. Then, maybe you would get some respect like someone who has been winning for a long time like Bobby. Until then, be a loyal fan and shut the hell up if you don’t have anything good or constructive to say. This used to be a great blog that I enjoyed reading, but I think it’s been taken over my a bunch a teenage wannabe’s who are losers in the game of life and want to take their frustrations out on a bunch of twenty year old baseball players. Get a life and get off the blog so those of us who are true supporters of the Braves can have an enjoyable discourse on the Braves. For those of you who are respectful and know how this blog should work, sorry for the long post and keep on supporting your Atlanta Braves!
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:02 pm
Too bad we dont have any replacements that can play second base or short stop.
Rob from SC
April 27th, 2009
8:02 pm
Another great at-bat by our 1 and 2 hitters
TNScott
April 27th, 2009
8:03 pm
Thanks Jair. At least you saw more pitches than anyone else in that inning. Pitiful.
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
8:03 pm
Abravesfan…Bobby’s reply would be…yes..kj is starting tomorrow..he is just having bad luck…hitting the ball hard but right at people..gotta give the other team credit.
Frank from KS
April 27th, 2009
8:03 pm
Ya know what Corky…..I’d vote for McGwire before I’d EVER vote for Bonds.
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
8:03 pm
LOL JJ sees 3 pitches Kelly and Yunel both see two pitches only.
DOB's Mom
April 27th, 2009
8:03 pm
I hate KJ, can we please just DFA him already?
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
8:03 pm
Dammit! Bobby, Move KJ Down in the Lineup NOW! We Simply cannot afford to have our leadoff hitter Hitting at the Mondesi Line If we want to end these Feast or Famine Offensive outcomes…
Edward
April 27th, 2009
8:03 pm
KJ is 4 for his last 33, holy @!&%….pardon my french
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
8:03 pm
The Zaxby construction chick makes me want to work construction
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:04 pm
Uglyman – Do you actually watch the games? You actually think Bobby is doing a good job?
Wake up
April 27th, 2009
8:04 pm
Who is going to leadoff then? Escobar? Schafer?
Please. It’s called a slump people.
Rob from SC
April 27th, 2009
8:04 pm
Ugaman
This board gets negative becaise certain parts of this team refuse to improve
Carroll Rogers
April 27th, 2009
8:04 pm
that’s 66 pitches for Jurrjens through three innings, 30 for Pineiro
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
8:04 pm
Braves are keeping Piniero pitch count low so they dont have to face Boyer tonight.
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
8:04 pm
Frank..what is your reasoning…..on the bonds comment
vabravesfan
April 27th, 2009
8:04 pm
it’s mendoza line smartypants
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:04 pm
Story of the year…pitch count 66-31 Braves.
Little Red Bird
April 27th, 2009
8:05 pm
Ooo Ooo Ooo…
Is it true?
Do the Cardinals get to face Jo Jo Reyes tomorrow night?
Ooo that’s gonna be good.
Dumbfounded
April 27th, 2009
8:05 pm
And If Bobby Cox is so good,! Why are people knocking at his door for his services !!!!!!!!!!!!!
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
8:06 pm
UGA…is there any majors in coaching?!
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
8:06 pm
Hey Carroll after the game can you please ask Kelly and Yunel if they see any value in working a pitch count? And also ask Bobby if he has given any thought to playing a bench player while his leadoff hitter is approaching the mendoza line?
Thanks in advance.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:06 pm
Anyone want to see the bullpen face Ankiel, Pujols, or Ludwick?
Frank from KS
April 27th, 2009
8:07 pm
Ugaman
I agree with that post of yours….especially Mr. Coach who think’s he makes so much DAMN sense.
Dumbfounded
April 27th, 2009
8:07 pm
Why are people NOT knocking at Bobby’s door for his services !!! Sorry !
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
8:07 pm
UGAMAN
No Offense, But You Must not be tired of 3 losing seasons, hence the reason Why so many fans are on here Bytching…Simply put we are tired of being a second tier team, and getting put to shame by the Big Boys of the league…
If You don’t like the constant criticisms then “We Got Two Words For Ya!”
braves need to win this series
April 27th, 2009
8:08 pm
dude, i know its a monday….but this crowd is pathetic. why are atlanta fans so sorry (for the most part). hell, i live in alabama and three hours away from turner field and i bet i make to more games than 90% of people who live in and around atlanta. and braves fans wonder why management is so cheap…. its obvious isnt. they go out and spend 60 mil on lowe and no one shows up to see him. cmon guys. if you live in atlanta then go buy a $5 upper deck ticket and go to as many games as you can. support this team.
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
8:08 pm
Yeah I have a hard time believing Pujols is 29, I thought the man was in his 30’s. Hopefully JJ can give us 6 with a few quick innings here.
Flirtin' With Disaster
April 27th, 2009
8:08 pm
We’re back to the Vazquez situation they had last week. Vazquez was hardly getting a chance to sit down between innings before he was back on the mound thanks the impatient offense.
You may not be able to hit this guy, but at least make him throw some pitches and give our pitcher a chance to sit for a couple minutes between innings. If our guy can keep it close, maybe you can steal a run later. If our guy gets the third out and then has to turn back around and throw again because you didn’t want to take a pitch or two, then blame yourself when our guy starts throwing some run scoring mistakes.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:09 pm
Id really like to know what all these Positive Braves Fans are on….I need to get some of that to go with my Sudafed.
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
8:09 pm
Alright need a few more quick innings like that and we can hang.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
8:09 pm
Nice Efficient Inning by Double J! That’s what I’m talking bout…Now If the Damn Offense would get out of creep mode!
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
8:10 pm
He looks older, doesn’t he Jake? All this time I thought he was in the Chipper/Jeter age range.
Little Red Bird
April 27th, 2009
8:10 pm
Carroll Rogers: wouldn’t you rather interview Tony LaRussa after the game, rather than Bobby Cox?
Complete sentences are better than grunts, hands down!
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:10 pm
3 innings of our bullpen always worries me….2 innings i feel alright with…but 3…seems like too much bad can happen.
keylargo
April 27th, 2009
8:10 pm
Hey MF here is a little known fact that someone like you can run with. BMac used to be second baseman! With the way Ross is playing it’s a natural progression for you to put Mac at second when he comes back. Of course McFann will ring your neck, but I’m really hoping she will!
TNScott
April 27th, 2009
8:11 pm
Correct me if I’m wrong but didn’t we went through this same thing the last time KJ was the leadoff? He started well went into a slump and didn’t get it going until he was moved out of that spot.
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
8:11 pm
MFin04…Yes, been watching the Braves since the early ’80’s, so I’ve seen a lot of crap from this franchise. I’ve also been a loyal fan that was rewarded year in and year out of 14 straight division titles. You people think you have answers to all of the slumps and everything else that goes on with this baseball team, but my question is, What do you do for a living? I’ll bet it’s not related to running a baseball team! My reasoning is that Cox has been doing this a long time and knows what he is doing. We won a lot of games over the years with players going in and out of slumps, and I’m sure that if we had a blog then, people would have been freaking out then as well. Well, it’s still just April and if people would just be patient and let the team work some things out, then Bobby will make the changes when they are ready. And don’t give me this thing about Schafer being ready to lead off. He’s not ready and there really isn’t a better solution at the top of the order right now. Yes, I think KJ should hit lower in the order, but right now he’s the best option at the top of the order. When he’s on, he’s out of this world and has more speed on the bases than anybody else on this team other than Schafer. We just need some patience people!
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
8:11 pm
Ill predict this half inning…Chipper leadoff walk, Kotchman GIDP, and Francouer first pitch pop up to SS.
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
8:12 pm
Ooops forgot they are trying to walk him but he keeps swinging at ball 3.
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
8:12 pm
red bird…cox answers are always the same…good location on the pitches..we got unlucky..we are hitting the ball hard but the right at the other team…we will get them tomorrow…
Little Red Bird
April 27th, 2009
8:13 pm
When it matters least, Kotchman is at his finest!
Frank from KS
April 27th, 2009
8:13 pm
Corky
My reasoning is…is that Bonds is an arrogant jack*** where McGwire, and some of the others are more likeable.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:14 pm
Lol Kotchman gets some of the most worthless hits in baseball…he makes me laugh.
The_Superhoo
April 27th, 2009
8:15 pm
:-/ sigh Frenchy DP
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
8:15 pm
Frank..very good reasoning..hence why they don’t let the general public vote…good job on the prediction…abravesfan..you were close
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:15 pm
McGwire was a jerk too…did you watch the whole US Court thing.
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
8:15 pm
LOL 10 pitch inning! TP gets a raise.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:15 pm
Anyone else see that DP by Frenchy coming?
P-Town Brave (Schafer To Leadoff; KJ to 6/7)
April 27th, 2009
8:16 pm
Another inning, another 2 AB’s given away by Chipper and Jeff…
Way to go boys…just keep doin what you’re doin…heck, it doesn’t matter…there will be no recourse…
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
8:16 pm
Run Heap Run I thought he was about 32 or 33. I knew he was younger than Chip just not that much. Here’s hoping we can keep Pujols 0-3.
Little Red Bird
April 27th, 2009
8:16 pm
“What do you do for a living? I’ll bet it’s not related to running a baseball team!”
If I can get a hundered million dollars together, give or take, then I plan to buy a baseball team.
How much for the Braves?
All you need is enough money and you can run any business. That’s capitalism!
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
8:17 pm
Ugaman, you ignorant buffoon, we are complaining about these things because they are NOT working. Fact: Kelly Johnson hit’s better lower in the order. Fact: Swinging at the first pitch of every at bat and grounding out to the same place each time through the batting order is not productive. Maybe you “loyal” fans enjoy mediocrity, but a good portion of the people on this blog do not appreciate it. When you have the tools to win and do not utilize them to their fullest potential then you have failed.
We can all understand when a batting order doesn’t produce for a couple games and is in a slump, but this is not a slump. This is Bobby ball at it’s finest. Being loyal to people who don’t deserve loyalty, this is baseball, if your lead off hitter is terrible in the lead off position and hits much better lower in the order, WHY, I implore you, WHY, would you not move him down? Kelly is what, 3 for 40 something? Give someone else a shot, because this is obviously not working. Andruw Jones hovered around the Mendoza line for an entire season and what happened to him? Nothing, everything was ho-hum, but I guess that’s just how it should be seeing as we should all shut up and just be loyal fans. WE are the loyal fans, you are the one who accepts mediocrity, and we sir, do not.
If I recall correctly, a great mind once said that doing the same thing over and over again and expecting to get a different result was the definition of insanity. Then again, we should probably all just shut up and be loyal fans.
Here’s to 2010!
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
8:17 pm
Corkylikebeer…..ok smartAxx, there may not be a degree in coaching, but there are plenty of coaching classes in college. Just major in physical education or sports management and you can take as many coaching classes as you like. I took a coaching baseball class in college and learned a great deal. There’s more to this game than the everyday fan realizes, and I grew up playing the game. Of course, everyone on this blog thinks they have a PhD in baseball!
cabravesfan
April 27th, 2009
8:18 pm
Hey all
Can I ask a music question in the middle of the game? I heard a really cool, stripped down rock cover of the song “Heartless” on my way home but the dumba** DJ never said who it was by and my nifty iPhone tagging App refused to recognize it…anyone know who signs it?
Eman
April 27th, 2009
8:18 pm
Pineiro is on track for a complete game on less than 100 pitches
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
8:19 pm
Please walk Albert here.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:19 pm
Everyone on a blog cant be stupid when we all think the exact same thing….MOVE KJ DOWN!
bravos2249
April 27th, 2009
8:19 pm
I’m just saying, using Prado right now while Kelly is in a slump isn’t going to hurt the team. If Prado doesn’t hit, he’s not doing any less than Kelly is now. If that fails try Infante.
Basically just get somebody in there for a couple of games that can provide consistent lead off.
Steve from OH
April 27th, 2009
8:19 pm
Erik Cordier throws two scoreless for MB–1H, 2BB, 3K
Freddie Freeman with a 2-run bomb, and Cody Johnson with a hit and a walk in two PAs.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:19 pm
Here is my questions…Ive watched every game and it seems like every team…including the Nationals…take a lot of pitches….why dont the Braves?
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
8:20 pm
Way to rush over and rob that hit.
P-Town Brave (Schafer To Leadoff; KJ to 6/7)
April 27th, 2009
8:21 pm
Could tell by the look on JJ’s face in the dugout that it doesn’t matter how well he pitches the rest of this game…
He’s gonna get screwed and he knows it because we have the worst leadoff hitter in the league and we give away AB’s almost every inning and sometimes more than 1 in an inning…
But hey, whats that matter…even though Terry doesn’t do ANYTHING of worth, he’ll still be here come September, and hey, just because Bobby doesn’t make any changes of worth OR reprimand any of his players for their stupidity or poor play, it doesn’t mean he’s lost it as a manager (yawn)
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
8:21 pm
Well I was asking to much, at least we kept him in the yard.
Little Red Bird
April 27th, 2009
8:21 pm
Wow. The Cardinals main competition this year may be the Pirates. How freaky is that?
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
8:21 pm
Hooters leaves soon right after the game…MF that is why…Chipper hates making girls wait…Bobby has to get home
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:21 pm
Ross looks pretty good behind the plate
P-Town Brave (Kelly Johnson Sucks!)
April 27th, 2009
8:22 pm
<——— enough said!
Frank from KS
April 27th, 2009
8:23 pm
MFin04
Yeah, I seen the whole court thing. McGwire sat there saying…”I’m not here to talk about the past” etc but COMPARED to jack*** Bonds….HE IS A MORE LIKEABLE GUY.
1997 Calling
April 27th, 2009
8:23 pm
Hey dudes, can I have my hooters jokes back?
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
8:23 pm
Stephen. OK, what is your solution for the leadoff? Schafer? He only strikes out every other at bat right now. Esco definately isn’t patient enough. No one else comes even close to being able to lead off. Think before you call someone ignorant. You usually just expose your own immaturity. I’m not saying I don’t agree with the way Cox does things a lot of times, but I’m not going to sit here and think that I know more than he does. Trust me, there’s a lot of people who know a lot more than you and I who have either played or managed who know just how good he is, and I’ve never heard someone in the profession talk bad about the way Bobby manages. Ever.
TNScott
April 27th, 2009
8:23 pm
What’s the over or under for pitches the Braves will see this inning? 7?
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
8:24 pm
Please braves hitters take some pitches here.
Thanks in advance
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:24 pm
90 pitches for JJ…if he can get through the sixth…I’ll call that a good day with bad stuff. Bullpen is going to blow this wide open…maybe Boyer will come in to keep it close.
bravos2249
April 27th, 2009
8:24 pm
Thing is Escobar should be moved down..IMO too.
Eventually, which may be June, I think Schafer and Kotchman should hit 1 and 2.
I know that could put 4 lefties in a row but Kotchman seems like a hitter that could hit anywhere…except maybe 3rd.
TnBrian
April 27th, 2009
8:24 pm
I mean, this is why Jurrjens might be our ace for years to come. All the talk about Hanson being the “future ace” is almost silly. Based on what? Chipper’s comments? Please, JJ is showing right now why he’s more than likely the man for that job.
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
8:24 pm
2 pitches one out
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
8:24 pm
Word Of Mouf Is That Hanley Ramirez Left the Game With a Broken Wrist Is there any truth to this…?
If so then there Goes the Marlins Season…
Lets Get Some damn Runs! I ‘m getting tired of this Boring A.ss offense night in and nite out…
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
8:24 pm
Well..we would have the Gold Club jokes…but Andruw Jones left…and Gold Club is no longer with us…
Jeff321
April 27th, 2009
8:25 pm
Here is my questions…Ive watched every game and it seems like every team…including the Nationals…take a lot of pitches….why dont the Braves?
My theory is summed up by choosing one of the following: 1) Bobby Cox just wants the game over ASAP so he get out of the dugout, 2) Cox tells ‘em to take pitches and they don’t respect him enough to listen, 3) Either way he needs to hit the bricks.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:25 pm
Infante or Prado could lead off better than KJ right now. So could Schafer. Dont be stupid…lots of options for lead off.
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
8:26 pm
I’m with you bravos2249 or at least give KJ some time off. When the guy is going hot we can give him the day off but when he struggles he’s in there everyday. Something doesn’t seem right about that. Maybe KJ stays fresh if he gets a couple of days off every now and then. We would never know because it hasn’t happened.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:26 pm
Hanley actually has been sucking for the Marlins.
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
8:26 pm
Who is this coming up to bat to Soulja Boy? Might’ve known…lol.
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
8:27 pm
Yea! Put Schafer in the lead off. Man he crushed that one!
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
8:27 pm
10 pitches. Yawn
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
8:28 pm
Run…soulja boy wants to kiss you through the phone
Frank from KS
April 27th, 2009
8:28 pm
Damn, how bout the 5 run inning boys? *rolls eyes*
Lmao
Flirtin' With Disaster
April 27th, 2009
8:28 pm
This should be the Braves offensive plan for tonight.
Take as many pitches as possible. Try to extend Pineiro to 12-14 pitches per inning then you can dribble out to someone. While this is going on, everyone fan JJ, rub his feet between innings, get him a cold drink, massage his back. Hope JJ can keep it a one run game.
Maybe the Cards will make an error or two or Ross can park one. Other than that, we’re cooked! Braves offense has no chance.
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
8:28 pm
TNBrian …How long do we have JJ under contract?
TNScott
April 27th, 2009
8:28 pm
Well, another easy inning thanks to the shortstop.
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
8:29 pm
Regarding Hanley:
An X-ray came back negative, and Ramirez is listed as day-to-day with a sore right hand.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
8:30 pm
Another good start by Double J Wasted by this Anemic Offense…
Cy Piniero is the Man Tonight
I don’t know about everyone else on here but I’m getting Tired of watching good starts by the Pitching staff go to waste, Hence Why I’m always Bytching abou this team and the way they play
What good does having one of the best pitching staffs if the Damn offense Makes everyone they face look like Cy Young…?
bravos2249
April 27th, 2009
8:30 pm
Jake W.
yeah the weird thing is I think he was hot and then he got an off day and then this slump happened…not sure. But the bench players did need playing time, BUT when Chipper was hurt we could have put Omar in LF and Prado at 3rd.
He needs time off. He’s not hitting anything and in a few weeks he probably will start hitting, but right now we need someone to hit. If he wasn’t hitting lead off, you know it would kinda be a different story.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:30 pm
Brandon Jones looked like he hit that one ball pretty hard…thought it was a double.
JasonInFL (Formerly ME)
April 27th, 2009
8:31 pm
ugaman, what does your leadoff hitter “crushing” one have to do with the ability to hit leadoff? Who cares if he crushes it…
Do you know who was leading the team in OBP and walks heading into at least yesterday’s game? Hint: his initials are not KJ
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
8:31 pm
No, ugayman, I’m not one of the “BAT SCHAFER LEAD OFF” posters. Kelly Johnson doesn’t fit the billet, so why continue to force him to hit there. “No one else even comes close to being able to lead off,” really? What about Infante, Prado or even Brandon Jones? If 3-40 is acceptable to you, I’m pretty sure we could find someone who might be able to pull off 4-40, then you could come back on this blog and tell everyone how nobody else was even close to their capability to lead off.
There are people who know more than me? WOW, thanks for that ground breaking information. Nobody talks bad about Bobby because he’s the prototypical “Good ole’ boy.” He doesn’t have the same team he did in the 90’s and early 00’s so why manage the same way? It’s not working and you’d have to be a tool to disagree.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
8:31 pm
Soulja Boy Sucks! Gawd I hate that Pop-Tart Garbage…
1995
April 27th, 2009
8:32 pm
Seasons just started and already Im anxious for the Falcons to come back. Get a real power hitter and maybe it will spark something but for now guys……… BORING AGAIN!!!!!!!
Rob from SC
April 27th, 2009
8:33 pm
Our Offense sucks
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:33 pm
JJ under 100 pitches…maybe he can go one more? What the hell…we mine as well…
P-Town Brave (Kelly Johnson Sucks!)
April 27th, 2009
8:33 pm
I’ve come to the conclusion that Bobby no longer has a set of cajones…
IF he did, (which I believe he lost them about 10 years or so ago) he would start telling every single one of his players that if they swing at another 2-0 or 3-0 pitch (which seem to be getting our hitters out very frequently) they would then be fined $1000.
I can guarantee that not many players if any at all would want to break this mandate….
That being said, once again, it would never EVER happen because Bobby has no set!
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
8:33 pm
Tomahawkin..you sound like Labron James
Frank from KS
April 27th, 2009
8:33 pm
As Harry Caray used to say after the 7th inning stretch……
LET’S GET SOME RUNS!!!!!!!
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
8:34 pm
Has Bobby even been thrown out of a game this year..yet?
TnBrian
April 27th, 2009
8:35 pm
Tomahawkin, I’m not one to bash Wren except for the Kawakami signing in which I believe was no more than a P.R. move. An expensive P.R. move. A trade for Swisher or signing Abreu woulda helped right now, but whatcha gonna do.
The_Superhoo
April 27th, 2009
8:35 pm
“As Harry Caray used to say after the 7th inning stretch……”
If the moon was made outta cheese…would ya eat it?
bravos2249
April 27th, 2009
8:35 pm
Gotta say after the way this one started for JJ to only give up 2 that’s darn good.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:35 pm
Get Jair Franchise Jurrjens a win dang it!
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:35 pm
Infante took a pitch…he should hit leadoff. $100 on a hit?
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
8:36 pm
Infante knows how to take pitches.
GET HIM INTO THE LINEUP!
TNScott
April 27th, 2009
8:36 pm
Good job, Jair. And yes KJ will bat again this inning.
Heath (Cleveland)
April 27th, 2009
8:36 pm
Six good innings from JJ….another game with no run support.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
8:36 pm
CorkyLikesBeer
What does that mean…?
I just hate Romper-Room Rap, and that Soulja Boy Crap falls under that category…
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
8:36 pm
Man, it’s nice to think about that KJ for Ludwick trade going through. That would’ve been great.
bravos2249
April 27th, 2009
8:36 pm
And look who gets a lead off hit!!!!
The_Superhoo
April 27th, 2009
8:36 pm
There ya go Infante!
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
8:36 pm
“A LEAD OFF SINGLE BY INFANTE” Wow, Ugaman, that sounded good didn’t it?
TNScott
April 27th, 2009
8:37 pm
Nice at bat Omar.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:37 pm
i”ll take my money. and screw all you leave KJ at leadoff morons….Infante is a damn good leadoff hitter.
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
8:37 pm
So, everyone’s answer is to put career backup players in the leadoff position! wow, you guys are brilliant! Sure, KJ could use an offday, I wouldn’t disagree with that, but to think that Prado, Infante or Brandon Jones (who couldn’t make the team out of Spring Training) are the answer is just silly. KJ has a track record as one of the top hitting second basemen in the league, and we want to replace him with bench players.
Hey, Kelly’s in a slump, I get it. That wasn’t my dispute with the bloggers, but the constant negativity. I get frustrated like everyone else, but I at least know they are trying their best. I just think some of you need to chill out a little and let’s get to June before we act like we are the worst team in baseball!
Heath (Cleveland)
April 27th, 2009
8:37 pm
GS by Howard…6-6….ugh
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
8:37 pm
There you go Infante!
Take note work a count and then swing and good things will happen!
P-Town Brave (Kelly Johnson Sucks!)
April 27th, 2009
8:37 pm
Jason in FL (still hard to type that after instinctively wanting to type in ME) -
I agree w/ you there brotha! At this point I’d take almost ANYONE over Kelly…We’re all a little tired of the play 1 week take off 3…
I’d give a little more leeway if he were a solid defensive player, BUT he’s certainly nowhere near that!
Not only that, taking off a week at a time only works if you’re Manny or someone of that ilk…last I checked, Kelly has a better time being a Playgirl Playmate than making it to the Hall of Fame.
And just like that Infante comes in (splinters in the *ss and all) and gets a hit…
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
8:37 pm
TnBrian after JJ’s last start I said he had been our ace so far this year. I know D. Lowe was kind of the de facto ace but JJ has pitched like one. The kid has poise on the mound. Didn’t have his best stuff today but battled.
The_Superhoo
April 27th, 2009
8:37 pm
Phillies just got a game tying GS from Howard. Way to go Gnats.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
8:37 pm
R. Howard Just Hit A Slam Tie Game in Philly, FCK!
bravos2249
April 27th, 2009
8:37 pm
This would be a good spot for a BUNT..I mean he is 3-for his last frickin-40
Carroll Rogers
April 27th, 2009
8:37 pm
that was 99 pitches for Jurrjens, 58 for strikes. Line on him 6 IP, six hits, two runs, both earned, two walks, two Ks
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
8:38 pm
Why is kelly not bunting here?
I thought Bobby always played for the tie game?
The_Superhoo (Montana by way of Virginia)
April 27th, 2009
8:38 pm
I hate that player.
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
8:38 pm
There’s your guy Ugaman, great AB Kelly!
Heath (Cleveland)
April 27th, 2009
8:39 pm
oh KJ…what was that?
P-Town Brave (Kelly Johnson Sucks!)
April 27th, 2009
8:39 pm
Ugaman-
Wow are you brain dead!
The only reason Prado IS a BACK-UP is because he’s a Brave…I can name a few teams he’d be starting for at either 2b or 3b…
And just like that, Kelly grounds into a DP….F KELLY JOHNSON! I’ve had it!
Frank from KS
April 27th, 2009
8:39 pm
We get a runner on and can’t do a thing with it.
*sigh*
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
8:39 pm
WOW amazing at bat by Kelly.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
8:39 pm
Someone Said That its a late arriving crowd at the Ted…Please! Looks Like Busch Stadium South Tonight…
And Did I mention That This Offense Blows!!!
Move KJ Down Now!!!
TNScott
April 27th, 2009
8:39 pm
Great job again KJ. Swing at everything between the batters boxes.
P-Town Brave (Kelly Johnson Sucks!)
April 27th, 2009
8:39 pm
Ugaman-
Here’s Your Sign!
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:39 pm
Lol did you see the Phillies inning? Rollins single….Victorino single….Utley single…Howard GS….lol thats how you draw it up. KJ is a heck of a hitter…put infante in at second…please!!!!
bravos2249
April 27th, 2009
8:39 pm
that was just great…Bobby has Kelly bunt when he’s actually hitting the ball good, but when he can’t hardly do anything he doesn’t let him bunt?
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
8:40 pm
I’d love to see Prado get a couple of days to play 2b.
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
8:40 pm
it was a comment by Labron James how he is like Jay Z and another player from another team (forgot the the name) is like a soulja boy..a one hit wonder
McFann =Ô=
April 27th, 2009
8:40 pm
Keylargo–
You want me to??
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:40 pm
Cardinals defense looks incredible tonight.
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
8:40 pm
Way to hustle Esco!
Come on Chipper, do your thang.
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
8:40 pm
Time to do damage Chipper.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
8:40 pm
PTown Braves…
Settle Down Bro…You Sound More angry To The verge of getting Violent…!
Little Red Bird
April 27th, 2009
8:40 pm
Orel Hershiser just explained how people will rotate upwards during the rapture.
McFann =Ô=
April 27th, 2009
8:40 pm
Oh, and if JJJ gets a loss tonight, I could consider disowning this team until McCann comes back…
bravos2249
April 27th, 2009
8:41 pm
See we could have 2 on…1 on 3rd with 1 out with Chipper up now.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:42 pm
Can a pitcher win the Cy Young…with a losing record?
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
8:42 pm
Why doesn’t everyone crap on Chipper right now? He has done nothing over the weekend and has just hit dribblers tonight. Send him down!
The_Superhoo (Montana by way of Virginia)
April 27th, 2009
8:42 pm
Nice work Escobar. Real good.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
8:42 pm
CorkyLovesBeer
Oh Ok…Cool
I don’t Follow Leboring James since I don’t watch the NBA…
Offense Come On…Watch they Pitch around Chipper…Can’t let him beat them
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
8:42 pm
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
8:42 pm
Nice play by Molina.
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
8:42 pm
HAHAHA that figures.
Heath (Cleveland)
April 27th, 2009
8:42 pm
Got him easily….not a smart play at all.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:42 pm
Lol…Esco you darn fool…we just can’t run the bases. Here goes the game anyway…are pen is sure to give up runs…its due!
JasonInFL (Formerly ME)
April 27th, 2009
8:43 pm
Seriously, I am not trying to bash KJ…I actually think he still has potential. But, in all honesty, would this team be better with Ludwick/Prado or KJ/Garret “I hate being in Atlanta” Anderson/Diaz/Brandon Jones? I am posing as a serious question. I am of the absolute opinion we would be better with Ludwick/Prado.
BOO
April 27th, 2009
8:43 pm
WTF was that Escobar?
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
8:43 pm
You must not have watched yesterday, Ugaman. Chipper went 3-4.
TNScott
April 27th, 2009
8:43 pm
Jair deserves better play behind him than what he’s getting.
Jeff321
April 27th, 2009
8:43 pm
Yunel is one of my favorite players.. But, you’ve just witnessed an excellent pick off play!
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
8:43 pm
ESCO WTF!!! Thats EXACTLY What I’m Talking About…”Dumb Baseball”
Gawd This Team Sucks! They have Been Playing Dumb Baseball ever since Florida Came Into Town…Arrrrgggghhh!!!
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
8:43 pm
Dare I say the little things
KJ’s face is begging for a day off.
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
8:44 pm
uga…can you change your name to ga tech please
Rob from SC
April 27th, 2009
8:44 pm
We are all looking at this in the wrong way. Forget moving Kelly Johnson down in the order, move his sorry ass out of the lineup. I would give Prado a few day in a row. After that freat base running by Escobar, I would start Prado and Infante to send a wakeup call
Choppinmama
April 27th, 2009
8:44 pm
Some payback by the redbirds for Yunel enjoying his hit a little too much. How do you say “gotcha’” en espanol??
Carroll Rogers
April 27th, 2009
8:44 pm
Infante stays in the game at second base. Kelly sits after a stretch of going 4-for-34 dating back to the start of the last road trip
Steve from OH
April 27th, 2009
8:44 pm
Guys, we don’t even know that a KJ-Ludwick trade was on the table…think before you post.
Loaf Garret on a blackberry from the DL
April 27th, 2009
8:44 pm
Hey I don’t hate being in Atlanta. I like it here, just kicking back, counting my money..go braves!
Heath (Cleveland)
April 27th, 2009
8:44 pm
As ticked off as we are…I bet Chipper is more upset than we are….bet it takes all he has to keep his mouth shut.
braves need to win this series
April 27th, 2009
8:45 pm
where is DOB now on how kelly should be leading off and its entirely too early to put schafer there????
at least schafer can beat out a double play grounder. kelly needs a few days off and when he comes back he needs to be in the eighth spot. or trade him to st louis and get boyer back. at this point i dont know who would hurt us more.
bravos2249
April 27th, 2009
8:45 pm
Ugaman
have you been living under a rock for the last month or have you noticed he’s got a hand problem. Yes he’s not hitting but sometimes injuries explain these issues. Also why does it matter if he’s hitting or not when Kelly ain’t on base for him to drive in. You can’t hit a 3-run homer with no one on base. That goes for Escobar as well. The whole team isn’t patient.
P-Town Brave (Kelly Johnson Sucks!)
April 27th, 2009
8:45 pm
Tomahawkin-
Its just getting d*mn frustrating watching the same crap over and OVER again!
I feel like Bill Murray in Groundhog Day like I’m stuck in an endless cycle!
And like Bill Murray I will say, none of this is going to change until we have a new leadoff hitter, new 2b, and an entire new coaching staff!
How many more boneheaded plays are we going to make before a DRASTIC change is made?!
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
8:45 pm
There It is Folks, The Momentum was changing and It was F’d up by a mental error…Now Its time for the Blow-pen to put us to bed…
I’m calling for the Blow-pen to give up a homer to Pujols, “Bank on It”
cabravesfan
April 27th, 2009
8:45 pm
sooo…Prado is only a back up because he’s a Brave? I don’t recall that many teams clamoring to try to trade for him. I mean, if he could start for several teams I would think they’d try to get him, especially given the Braves’ pitching needs this past off season.
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
8:45 pm
I guess Bobby and KJ were to blame for Esco getting picked off, huh?
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
8:45 pm
KELLY JOHNSON IS SITTING HALLELUJAH!
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
8:45 pm
This game was lost by bobby cox’s lineup
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:45 pm
Oh thank God…I called that with Infante staying in…about time Bobby. Thanks to all those college classes I am taking in Baseball 101.
Daybed Wagmoe
April 27th, 2009
8:46 pm
Great heads-up play by Molina, huge mistake by Escobar.
Braves top 3 hitters are 1-for-8 with 7 groundouts and one infield single, a dribbler that went about 30 feet. Why not lead off with Schaefer and Kotchman in front of Chipper?
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
8:46 pm
No, Ugayman, but your boy hitting into another double play sure didn’t help either.
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
8:46 pm
Ugaman, maybe because its Chipper and he has a track record: hitting. Trust me, when he goes into prolonged and downright embarassing slumps like KJ can get in sometime people will get on him. I mean they get on him now about his injury history.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
8:46 pm
P-TownBrave….
I just Lost My Cool As well…For the last 3 years we have been playing dumb baseball, Hence Teams are no longer afraid to face Atlanta whwn we play like this….
bravos2249
April 27th, 2009
8:46 pm
Carroll
Thanks, but IMO and everyone else on the Blog Infante should have started the game.
Bobby Cox in the dugout on the small laptop Chipper's wife gave him for his birthday
April 27th, 2009
8:46 pm
NOW will you all shut up about Kelly?
JasonInFL (Formerly ME)
April 27th, 2009
8:47 pm
Steve from OH, hey bud…thanks for the reminder to think. Man, I knew I was missing something. If you are referring to me, where did I say that a trade was on the table and that the Braves should have made the move, etc? I simply posed a question.
Efrim
April 27th, 2009
8:47 pm
I can defend KJ, but that last at bat was bad. Swung at a pitch 2 feet off the plate. Give him and Esco a rest tomorrow and play Prado and Infante. They need to get their heads straight.
Frank from KS
April 27th, 2009
8:48 pm
Loaf Garret re: your 8:44 p.m.
LMAO
bravos2249
April 27th, 2009
8:48 pm
cabravesfan
If Prado where traded to a team that needed a 3rd baseman or a 2nd baseman I would NOT put it past them to start him. There are far worse out there then him.
TNScott
April 27th, 2009
8:48 pm
What was that?!
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:49 pm
Ryan Howard…just hit that Grand Slam…and it looked like he was going to fly out to second…but instead it went 420ft….wow!
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
8:49 pm
The Cardinals pitcher just saw more pitches in his 7th inning at bat than any braves hitter has seen tonight.
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
8:49 pm
And by the way that’s on Esco but darn good play by Molina too. He does it all the time, I would hope the Braves would known that about him. Mental lapse by Escobar.
Dumbfounded
April 27th, 2009
8:50 pm
The Braves swagger has been gone for years !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
HOW TO HAVE A LOSING TEAM
April 27th, 2009
8:50 pm
Walk the pitcher.
Walk everyone.
Make outs on the bases
Have the current two coldest/worst hitters batting 1 and 2 in the lineup
Jeff Bennett in general
Albert Einstein
April 27th, 2009
8:50 pm
What was that?!
It’s called walking the pitcher.
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
8:50 pm
not a statement you hear about the brave’s players…that was good baseball….
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:51 pm
Lol, the Cardinals…running with their pitcher. Hmm guess they want to win.
bravos2249
April 27th, 2009
8:51 pm
Also if KJ was SOOOOOO good (not trying to bash here I’m being honest), then why did no team want to go through with a trade for him. In other words if HE, KJ, is such a good player; how in a sense did we NOT get rid of him to a team that actually needed a 2nd baseman.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
8:51 pm
Game Over…This Is sickening…WTF Moylan Walking the Damn Pitcher!
Heath (Cleveland)
April 27th, 2009
8:51 pm
3-1….still more upset at the offense
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
8:51 pm
Ok Infante you have to keep that ball in the infield.
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
8:51 pm
Cmon 7-1, need my prediction to come true.
Jeff321
April 27th, 2009
8:51 pm
Moylan gives it up!
TNScott
April 27th, 2009
8:51 pm
Great job!!!
Rob from SC
April 27th, 2009
8:52 pm
we weren’t scoring again anyway
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:52 pm
Moylan got really unlucky on that play. But credit the Cards on sending the pitcher. Smart baseball…Braves just dont play smart ball.
vabravesfan
April 27th, 2009
8:52 pm
haha well all you kelly bashers get what you wanted…how bout a dive there infante to keep the ball on the infield
Hysterical Laughing
April 27th, 2009
8:52 pm
Moylan vs Pujolus
Watch this.
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
8:52 pm
Thats why in the National League you never walk the pitcher, unless his name is Micah Owings of course.
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
8:52 pm
Hey Moylan I highly doubt Ankiel is running here with the Pujols at bat.
cabravesfan
April 27th, 2009
8:53 pm
bravos2249-
I think you missed my point (or I was not as clear as I wanted)- my point was, if that many teams thought Prado (who i like quite a bit by the way) was a legit, 162 game starter for them, why was nobody interested in trying to get him? You would think some team would have put together an offer, even if the braves didn’t go for it. I don’t recall hearing any rumors about Prado.
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
8:53 pm
Rofl AbravesFan
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
8:53 pm
We Just got outexecuted/outplayed again…Hopefully we take 1 game out of this series and take 2 of three against Houston…
N8
April 27th, 2009
8:53 pm
Hmmm. Escobar gets picked off of first (unacceptable), and KJ shows his great range at 2B on the 32 hopper up the middle by Ankiel.
Yup. This team is just as fundamentally sound as the past three seasons.
When’s the fire sale begin. I have NEVER seen a team be more consistently mediocre than the teams led by Bobby the past 3+ years. Its uncanny. It’s ridiculous. It’s insane.
It’s Braves baseball. Catch the FEVER! (of the scarlett variety, if you’re lucky).
Rob from SC
April 27th, 2009
8:53 pm
Is it me or is Moylan a lot bigger than he was in 07
bravos2249
April 27th, 2009
8:53 pm
ABravesFan
no other 2nd baseman…at least the ones we have, including Prado would’ve dived for that. That’s one thing I don’t like about our 2nd baseman in general…all 3 of them. I saw KJ dive once to his right but that’s about it.
braveshater
April 27th, 2009
8:54 pm
WHATS TAKING SO LONG TO GET RID OFF KELLY JOHNSON AND HIS PATHETIC SKILLS, HE DOESNT DO ANYTHING WELL, AND HE’S LEADING OFF. IF BOBBY COX CANT RECONGNIZE THIS IS WHY THE BRAVES DONT SCORE RUNS, HE’S PAST HIS TIME. THE GUY IS ABSOLUTELY PATHETIC, I CANT EVEN WATCH THE BRAVES ANYMORE, WHAT IS LIKE 3 FOR HIS 55. I THOUGH THIS WAS MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL, WHAT A JOKE.
Steve from OH
April 27th, 2009
8:54 pm
Jason, yours was just a reminder to me that a lot of folks had been posting stuff like that. Not at you, but you were the inspiration (NOT the Chicago song)…
cricket
April 27th, 2009
8:55 pm
If our hitters had half the patience as Pineiro the hitter, Pineiro the pitcher would have been out of the game by now. And before someone wants to point out that he threw lot of strikes, find out how many were called strikes and how many were the balls that braves swung at.
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
8:55 pm
See guys. That is what I was talking about. If you will just wait, Bobby will usually make and adjustment. I never said that KJ wasn’t stuggling, just that we need to stop with all the negativity. Maybe I was just raised different, but when you are a fan, you try to be supportive instead of negative. Don’t you think the KJ feels terrible about the slump he’s in? Of course he does. He feels worse about it than any of you could imagine. He’s the one who has to look into his teammates eyes everyday. You get to curse and shut off the tv and go on to bed. He has to go back to the locker room and face his failure everyday he’s stuck in the slump. I just think you guys need to chill!
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
8:55 pm
Offense COME ON!!! Is 2 Runs too much to ask…? Shyt!
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
8:55 pm
Let’s go Hawks!
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:55 pm
Good job Moylan…minus walking the pitcher. Pretty good outing overall…Cardinals just wanting runs more than the Braves. I like how LaRusso sends runners….bunts guys over…hit and runs.
1995
April 27th, 2009
8:55 pm
Hey kids! Looks like another 4th place finish this year! I want to be positive but our manager lives by the long ball and we have no one that does that.
BORING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
N8
April 27th, 2009
8:56 pm
If the Braves scored as many runs as posts that this blog eats, we’d lead the league in runs….by a mile.
I’m not sure what’s more frustrating. The format and (ahem) reliability of this blog, or the shoddy play that the Braves have on display.
I want a manager that has to be restrained from beating the snot out of somebody that get’s picked off of first base with Chipper at the plate, when trailing with two outs.
Better yet, perhaps Chipper should have just walked down to first base and smacked him around a bit. Idiots.
Necromancer
April 27th, 2009
8:56 pm
Face it, the Braves are not going to be a contender until they spend some money, and that won’t happen as long as Liberty Media owns them!
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
8:56 pm
“See guys. That is what I was talking about. If you will just wait, Bobby will usually make and adjustment.”//
See: Andruw Jones
LOL
TNScott
April 27th, 2009
8:56 pm
We’ve just seen the difference between these teams. One team has a runner picked off and one team gets a runner in scoring position then takes advantage of it.
bravos2249
April 27th, 2009
8:56 pm
cabravesfan
well he’s not going to be a highly coveted.
When people say that they mean in a sense, “No one would think it but he could be a starter for someone”.
Honestly if the Braves felt confident in him and Infante to almost give up KJ then that speaks volumes about what they think about him, but KJ stayed and he’s a back up. Now I think he’s different than Betemit, who IMO should never play everyday.
DOB's Mom
April 27th, 2009
8:57 pm
The Cards have everything the Braves don’t – Speed, Power, Defense, & Good Coaching.
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
8:57 pm
LMAO @ the girl holding her arm up to do the chop.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
8:57 pm
Damn That Pickoff Really Hurts Now….!
B-Tank
April 27th, 2009
8:57 pm
Moylan vs Pujolus
Watch this.
-Hysterical Laughing
The people who post things like this never post anything else five minutes later, after Moylan strikes him out…
N8
April 27th, 2009
8:57 pm
Nice range by KJ on that 32 hopper from Ankiel up the middle too. Yikes.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:57 pm
Thataboy Chipper….dear God no DP….no DP!!!!
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
8:58 pm
CASEY!
Heath (Cleveland)
April 27th, 2009
8:58 pm
Have a night Kotchman!
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
8:59 pm
HERE WE GO BRAVES HERE WE GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
8:59 pm
Chipper a hit, very surprising. Why our hitters don’t learn more from him I don’t get it. Cards are a good team. They execute very well. Maybe we can learn something from them. Have a night Casey Kotchman.
Rob from SC
April 27th, 2009
8:59 pm
that pick off hurts now, but they could have pitched much differently. We will never know
DOB's Mom
April 27th, 2009
8:59 pm
Lets see how the Braves screw up this scoring opportunity.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
8:59 pm
Lol Casey K…have yourself a day. He makes me laugh. And Chipper seems to run sideways…anyone notice that?
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
8:59 pm
Man The Pick-off and Walking The Pitcher Really Hurts Now…
Why Couldn’t we start hitting like this in the early innings…?
braveshater
April 27th, 2009
8:59 pm
IF KELLY JOHNSON WAS A MINORITY HE WOULD HAVE BEEN GONE A LONG TIME AGO, THE SOUTH HAS A LONG WAY TO GO. I DONT THINK THE BRAVES WILL EVER GET THERE, SAD STORY.
Rob from SC
April 27th, 2009
8:59 pm
productive outs and we tie the score
Choppinmama
April 27th, 2009
8:59 pm
OK, offense, here we go………..
N8
April 27th, 2009
8:59 pm
Really? Our cleanup hitter has 4 RBI? Perhaps KJ could hit cleanup with McCann on the bench and put the “singles with the occasional double” hitter Kotcman at leadoff.
Nothing like Bobby forcing that square peg into the round hole.
Jeff321
April 27th, 2009
9:00 pm
Once again, Kotchman will lead the team in hits this year.
bravos2249
April 27th, 2009
9:00 pm
I think Chipper could have scored on that…but we DON’T need him hurt. I still am clamoring for Casey to hit 2nd when Brian is healthy and move Escobar down, but I’m sure that won’t happen.
How come we can’t ever get another run until we give another one up?
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:00 pm
Lol good job Frenchy. Chipper could have been thrown out at home if they tried…they didnt, lol.
B-Tank
April 27th, 2009
9:01 pm
Actually, N8, that was Infante… for all the talk about KJ’s “horrible” defense, our bench players aren’t exactly gold glovers, either.
JasonInFL (Formerly ME)
April 27th, 2009
9:01 pm
Steve from OH , cool. Not that it would have mattered if you were talking to me specifically. I just wanted to point out that I was simply asking a question. I do remember reports stating that the Braves wanted the Cards to throw in a second player if they were going to even really get into the “serious” discussion stages…
Daybed Wagmoe
April 27th, 2009
9:01 pm
I know I’m probably fan number 7,018 in the last couple days to suggest an alternative to Bobby’s current lineup, but here’s a lineup I’d consider:
Schafer
Kotchman
Chipper
Frenchy
Escobar
Ross
Kelly
Diaz/B. Jones
He may be striking out a lot, but he’s got a .380 OBP thanks to a lot of walks, especially lately. The way KJ is scuffling, he’s got no business leading off, and his lifetime average is about .070 points higher than when he’s hitting leadoff. Granted, he’s also got about 330 more at-bats, but the guy’s not your typical leadoff hitter.
Rob from SC
April 27th, 2009
9:01 pm
gret job F****** s*** by Moylan. How the hell do you walk the pitcher
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:01 pm
Escobar has got to realize that Yadier always throws over behind the runner. ALWAYS!
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
9:01 pm
Blaine Boyer sighting!
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
9:01 pm
Good take BJ now you go.
Rob from SC
April 27th, 2009
9:02 pm
this might be our last chance
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
9:02 pm
Rob? Have you had your tv paused for the last 15 minutes?
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
9:02 pm
Kotchman has to get a bigger lead at 2nd
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
9:02 pm
Boyer looks good in red
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
9:02 pm
I’m with you Stephen, Hawks came to play tonight.
Come on Braves let’s have a comeback.
Rob from SC
April 27th, 2009
9:03 pm
no, but I am still pissed at Moylan
DOB's Mom
April 27th, 2009
9:03 pm
Why did you swing at that BJ!?!
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
9:03 pm
I should have bet on the Hawks…they are getting 4.5 points…
braveshater
April 27th, 2009
9:03 pm
WHO IS BRANDON JONES? IS HE THE BEST OPTION WE HAVE. HAHAHAHAHAHAHA
bravos2249
April 27th, 2009
9:03 pm
Does anyone know how the Cards pen is?
I mean I know they got Boyer, but honestly?
Heath (Cleveland)
April 27th, 2009
9:04 pm
Piniero out after only 76 pitches….thanks LaRussa. We needed that.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
9:04 pm
Rob From SC
This Is our Last chance, especially with this offense…
braveshater
April 27th, 2009
9:04 pm
KELLY JOHNSON SUCKS.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:05 pm
Bring in Boyer…PLEASSSSSEEEE!
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
9:05 pm
Infante
Prado
Chipper
Ross
Francouer
Johnson
Kotchman
B.Jones
vabravesfan
April 27th, 2009
9:05 pm
First let me say that I think Schafer will be a good leadoff hitter eventually but everybody please remember that his high OBP has been helped by him being pitched around to get to the pitcher.
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
9:05 pm
The main reason Schafer is getting a lot of walks is because he is usually batting in front of the pitcher. If someone’s on base, they will pitch very carefully to Schafer on the corner’s because they know the pitcher is on deck.
Now, I do hope that Schafer will mature and get the hole in his swing closed, but right now he would be overmatched in the leadoff spot. I would love to see his speed at the top of the order, but we haven’t even seen how the league will adjust to him the second time around. Let’s see how he’s hitting in June before we move him up.
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
9:06 pm
Can we have David Ross as our leadoff hitter
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
9:06 pm
Get your pitch Ross
HOW TO HAVE A LOSING TEAM
April 27th, 2009
9:08 pm
Braves losing now on that walked pitcher.
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
9:08 pm
Hawks winning 40 -23 in the 2nd qtr
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:08 pm
That’s alright Ross played good soo far today. Come on Bullpen you guys can do it…offense step up…2 more innings!!
Jeff321
April 27th, 2009
9:09 pm
Forget the give it up boys, we need a couple snuff it out boys!
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
9:09 pm
The point is Schafer is not ready to be a leadoff man yet. Still has to many holes in his swing, but hopefully he becomes one. Till then it will probably be up to KJ or yunel. I do agree with Ugaman there can be to much negativity on this blog sometimes. Nice to avoid it sometimes.
MurphyRules
April 27th, 2009
9:09 pm
Why are Jones and Ross taking 2-0 fastball right down the middle with the tying run on second? Do they really think they’re going to see better pitches, or are they both just stupid?
braveshater
April 27th, 2009
9:09 pm
ESCO GOT PICKED OFF, SO FUKIN WHAT. AT LEAST HE WAS ON BASE, WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME KELLY TROTTED TO FIRST WITHOUT TURNING FOR THE DUGOUT AFTER THAT.
N8
April 27th, 2009
9:10 pm
Whoever the hell got picked off of first base should be b!tch-slapped. If it was Infante, my apologies to Escobar.
TnBrian
April 27th, 2009
9:10 pm
I like Chip Carey and think he’s a decent announcer, but he forcing himself to be down the middle as his technique, which is silly. We know Chip, you’re not a Braves “homer”. No need to rub it in our faces.
Moylan should be spanked with a belt and sat in the corner for walking the pitcher. That might be the difference right there! WOW
JasonInFL (Formerly ME)
April 27th, 2009
9:11 pm
vabravesfan & Ugaman, good point about Schafer batting in front of the pitcher. While I do think he has made adjustments like Chipper and others have said, I have to agree that batting in front of the pitcher certainly has influenced his OBP.
Frank from KS
April 27th, 2009
9:11 pm
Ahhh….how bout some rememberance of the 80’s, eh?
This team looks a lot like the Braves teams of the 80’s…except for the decent starting pitching staff.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:11 pm
Every put rally caps on and be positive on the blog for 2 more innings…maybe it will help us win!!! Let’s try!!!!!
Mark in PA
April 27th, 2009
9:12 pm
How can the bullpen “do it”- they never get to swing the bat!
Flirtin' With Disaster
April 27th, 2009
9:12 pm
Bobby ball at it’s finest!
In the sixth, Infante leads off with a hit. No one out, down a run. KJ, who is hitting ZERO lately comes up. You’re home, down a run. Use your struggling hitter to bunt him to second and put the tying run in scoring position? Nahhhhh let him swing away and hit into a DP!
That’s Bobby! Playing for six runs instead of trying to tie the game and change the complexion.
TnBrian
April 27th, 2009
9:12 pm
N8, it was Esco. Really good job by both Molina and Pujols on that though. But, Esco was a little too far off, but that happens sometimes. Can’t completely blame Yunel on that.
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
9:13 pm
Hawks leading 44- 25 with 2:56 left in the 2nd qtr
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
9:14 pm
Man I hate it when the blog eats posts!
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
9:15 pm
Well Schafer gets to leadoff next inning. Lets see what he does. Lets go Soriano, hold them where they are.
Couch Tater
April 27th, 2009
9:15 pm
N8
This kid must be another N.D. Braves fan. hee hee
http://www.kxmb.com/News/Local/358529.asp
Mark in PA
April 27th, 2009
9:15 pm
Enter your comments here
Fire Chip Caray
April 27th, 2009
9:16 pm
I truly think Chip Caray is worse than the popularly internet-criticized baseball announcers like Joe Buck and Joe Morgan.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:16 pm
Bases loaded for Ryan Howard…lol. Walk him.
Roja
April 27th, 2009
9:16 pm
If it weren’t for the Bullpen, it would be a tie game. Keep changing pitchers until it’s out of reach.
bravefaninok
April 27th, 2009
9:16 pm
Soriano is looking sharp!
Lew
April 27th, 2009
9:17 pm
Now all of you impatient ones can watch Schafer lead off-at least for this inning.
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
9:17 pm
Gonzo and Soranio will have great years…Contract years for both
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
9:18 pm
After braves lose are we going to have a blog out?
Heath (Cleveland)
April 27th, 2009
9:18 pm
Tonight’s game is yet another perfect example of why pitchers should thow strikes. Hitters are going to get their hits…balls find holes, etc. Three different guys walked tonight…all three scored against us. Lesson? Make them earn it! All that said, I am STILL more upset with the lack of offense…giving up 3 runs over 8 (maybe 9) innings is something I’ll take EVERY day.
vabravesfan
April 27th, 2009
9:18 pm
nats got out of the jam still tied
Dumbfounded
April 27th, 2009
9:18 pm
Yes !!!
bravefaninok
April 27th, 2009
9:20 pm
omar…..he can bunt!
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
9:20 pm
This would be a great time for Norty to bust that slump..
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
9:20 pm
oh god greg norton up…i might rather have Kelly its close though
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:21 pm
Infante is leading off tomorrow after his performance tonight. Bank on it!
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
9:21 pm
Carroll is really quiet tonight
Mark in PA
April 27th, 2009
9:21 pm
Of course, Lew, if he gets on, they’ll be insufferable- and now he’s done it.
“See? See? We told you so!” X 1e7
Fire Chip Caray
April 27th, 2009
9:22 pm
Norton? WTF IS BOBBY THINKING?
Heath (Cleveland)
April 27th, 2009
9:22 pm
Nice AB by Naughton
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
9:22 pm
Good at bat Norton!
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
9:22 pm
Very nice at bat Norton…come on clutch Yunel!
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
9:23 pm
Let’s go Yunel, DP BABY.
BOO
April 27th, 2009
9:23 pm
One out. Escobar up. You know what that means…..
INNING-ENDING DOUBLE PLAY
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
9:23 pm
First pitch, you’ve got to be F’ING KIDDING ME YUNEL WTF;KHDLKDA;KDA;KLDD
Jeff321
April 27th, 2009
9:23 pm
Wow, how many pitches did Escobar see? ONE?!! Sheesh
BOO
April 27th, 2009
9:23 pm
INNING-ENDING DOUBLE PLAY
Nope, just another first-pitch out.
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
9:23 pm
Wow just got done walking a guy and you first pitch swing pop up.
vabravesfan
April 27th, 2009
9:23 pm
good ab norton…we have 3 arms up in the bullpen by the way…lets go chip…braves love them 2 out rbis
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
9:23 pm
ok Chipper. You’re the one we want up. Let’s do it!
Mark in PA
April 27th, 2009
9:24 pm
Good eye Greg Norton!
BV18
April 27th, 2009
9:24 pm
2 games in a row now that Escoba was not thinking. Yesterday he tried but out @ 2nd, today he is out at 1st. BC or 1st base coach need to remind him that Chipper is behind him. It is more important for Escoba to be “On BASE” for him to hit !!!
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
9:24 pm
Yep, Yunel popping up a pitch right down the middle. I’m putting that one on TP. Lets go Chip
cabravesfan
April 27th, 2009
9:24 pm
You all do realize that pitch was basically right down the middle, right?
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
9:24 pm
Why is someone not running for Norton?
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:24 pm
Bobby told Esco to get a fly out and he did…good job.
Frank from KS
April 27th, 2009
9:25 pm
Ya know Norton was definately NOT double pitts to chesty during that at bat.
Lol
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
9:25 pm
You have to imagine they are going to pitch around Chipper here
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
9:25 pm
Chipper’s gonna walk and red hot Casey is going to come up. I’ll take it…
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
9:25 pm
Chip’s not going to get anything to hit!
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
9:25 pm
One way to blow it in April: Walk the flipping pitcher on 4 straight in the 7th and then give up a run on a dinker single when he’s moved over on a chopper. Thanks Peter Moylan. Because you walked the pitcher and gave up that run, Francouer’s sac fly in the bottom half of the inning makes it 3-2 instead of 2-2.
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
9:25 pm
Cmon, Chipper, my fantasy team needs RBI’s.
Daybed Wagmoe
April 27th, 2009
9:25 pm
Well at least Escobar didn’t ground into a double play on that first pitch.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
9:25 pm
They Will Pitch Around Chipper…You don’t let the #1 player Beat you. The want to pitch to Kotchman…
Kotchman Come On!!!
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
9:25 pm
ok, kotchy, you’re the man
Heath (Cleveland)
April 27th, 2009
9:26 pm
Casey has a chance to be the hero of the night.
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
9:26 pm
Bases loaded walk anyone?
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
9:26 pm
Wow, Stephen, get your own name fool!
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
9:26 pm
I like our chances.
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
9:26 pm
ball 1!!!
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:26 pm
COME ON CASEY K!!!
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
9:26 pm
Hey a walk scores a run. Gottem just where we want them.
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
9:27 pm
holy cow
Heath (Cleveland)
April 27th, 2009
9:27 pm
Good swing on the 1-0
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
9:27 pm
ball 2 (2-1)
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
9:27 pm
Kotchman, Just Like Tex, Can’t Come Through When the team seriously needs him…
Game Over!
Heath (Cleveland)
April 27th, 2009
9:27 pm
Oy
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
9:27 pm
Way to go Krotchman.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:28 pm
And Kotchman is the anti-clutch. He really is.
Charles Barkley
April 27th, 2009
9:28 pm
That was turrible. Just turrible.
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
9:28 pm
Why the big swings there? base hit scores 2?
N8
April 27th, 2009
9:28 pm
LOL (eyes rolling)
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
9:28 pm
That was a ball, did Kotchman not know you can get an rbi by walking?
vabravesfan
April 27th, 2009
9:28 pm
hes 3-4 tonight..give the guy a break. He sat on fastball and just didn’t get on top of it
N8
April 27th, 2009
9:29 pm
Casey Rotten-Kotch
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
9:29 pm
If we had Mark Charles Teixeira, Chipper would not have been walked there… we don’t have the budget
N8
April 27th, 2009
9:29 pm
I’m telling you. Kotchman for leadoff. This team has zero speed, so why should the leadoff hitter be any different?
njbraves
April 27th, 2009
9:29 pm
Can this team ever get a clutch hit??? Ever?? So tired of watching this garbage every night.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:30 pm
Esco and KJ need to find their #@$#@$ on the bench tomorrow after today’s performances. Just one mistake after another.
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
9:30 pm
You people arer unbelievable. Kotchman is the only Brave who has been hitting tonight and you guys want to kick him off the team because he just misses a pitch!
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
9:31 pm
Oh god Bennet on the mound
BOO
April 27th, 2009
9:31 pm
Jeff Bennett = White Flag
N8
April 27th, 2009
9:32 pm
vabravesfan, he missed TWO of them in that AB. If he had a manager that preached base hits instead of 3-run HR, he wouldn’t have been over-swinging.
Yes. He’s 3-4 tonight (was 3 for 3 before that AB), but he used a COMPLETELY different swing in the AB in which he failed.
Some guys are BORN to hit with the bases loaded. Rotten-kotch isn’t one of them.
1995
April 27th, 2009
9:32 pm
As I flip back from the Hawks to Braves I realize IT SUCKS TO BE AN ATLANTA FAN.
What did we do to deserve so much sucketh?
18 Wheels of Love
April 27th, 2009
9:32 pm
Nice 4 hole hitter
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:32 pm
What the heck happened to the Hawks game!!!!???
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
9:32 pm
Uga, when will you realize that our frustrations are not simply directed at Kotchman. Albeit some of our posts may contain the word “Krotch” occasionally. It’s just pent up frustration with this garbage team, broski, get used to it, we’re in for a long summer.
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
9:33 pm
Isn’t Bennet’s ERA like 1.00? How is that a white flag?
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
9:33 pm
N8, that was funny…rottenkotch
N8
April 27th, 2009
9:34 pm
ugaman, you’re wrong. I’m OK with guys missing pitches. But he over-swung on BOTH of the fastballs he missed that AB.
Managers who ask for “hack-n-jack” ball, get exactly that when a simple base hit takes the lead.
Not sure why I actually expect NEW players to bring anything different to the table, when being led by the stubborn ole’ mule.
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
9:34 pm
Isn’t Bennet’s ERA like 1.00? How is that a white flag?
Is this your first season watching the braves?
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
9:35 pm
LOL no but he’s been good this season. Who would you suggest he have used there?
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
9:35 pm
Wow, quick hook by Bobby. I must say that Bennet is about the only player I see come on the field that makes me want to get negative. I can’t see for the life of me why he’s on the team. I don’t know that I’ve ever seen him hold inherited runners (why his ERA is so low) or get 3 straight outs.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:35 pm
Bennett has not been that good this year…he has given up A LOT OF RUNS…they just havent been his. Its going to come back to bite him soon.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
9:35 pm
Stephen
Agreed, Its all Pent Up Frustration over the last 3 years we have been watching the Same Garbage Night In and Night Out, So everyone has a reson to vent their Frustration on a second class team…
TnBrian
April 27th, 2009
9:36 pm
Francoeur/Jones/Ross coming up = I need another Bud.
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
9:36 pm
UGAMAN, BENNETTS ERA IS 1.00, WHY CAN’T YOU JUST BE A LOYAL FAN AND SHUT UP.
JasonInFL (Formerly ME)
April 27th, 2009
9:36 pm
Rossy is going to hit a 2-run HR to win it!
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
9:36 pm
No one wants to kick him off ugaman, but the point i’m making is with bases loaded and down by one run, a walk ties the game. He swung at a ball. Know the situation. He’s had a great game but were still losing.
cabravesfan
April 27th, 2009
9:36 pm
Somehow I doubt Kotchman and his 33 career HRs was up there looking to go deep…he just missed, same as Yunel. It does happen sometimes
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:37 pm
Squeeze old Eric.
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
9:37 pm
If everyone is tired of rooting for this second class team, then why not quit and get off the blog? Then your blood pressure will go down and the rest of us can enjoy baseball:)
Whiskey Pete
April 27th, 2009
9:38 pm
Does anyone here think Chip Caray is talented, and/or informed, intelligent, funny, entertaining, interesting, skilled, worth listening to, or adult?
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:38 pm
Lol, Stephen that was good….I actually am chuckling.
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
9:38 pm
Stephen. touche. LOL!
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
9:38 pm
UGA..our negativity is wearing off on you now….you should go back and read your book..The Secret…
cabravesfan
April 27th, 2009
9:38 pm
Hey, Ryan Franklin’s on my fantasy team…this could turn out not all that bad for me!
Jeff321
April 27th, 2009
9:38 pm
How about the people complaining about the complainers look in the f’ing mirror? Its the same damn thing except we’re talking baseball and you’re talking smack.
Dumbfounded
April 27th, 2009
9:38 pm
People ! Don’t argue with these die heart Braves fans on this blog ! They will never say anything bad about their team ! They the Braves could walk the hitters in ten times and they would say the other team laid off tough pitches !!!!!!!!!! Don’t waste your beathe with them !!!
mbatl
April 27th, 2009
9:38 pm
oh good grief, N8. Kotchman hasn’t hit a HR all year… do you really think he was trying to hit one there? Or that Cox was asking him too? That’s ridiculous. He worked the count to his favor, got a good pitch to hit, swung hard (which is how you get hits in the majors) and just missed it. I’ll take my chances on that swing every day.
Stop whining, people! This is a good baseball game.
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
9:38 pm
I wouldnt use anyone here…I would have walked to the mound made Bennett take off his jersey and lay it on the mound. Then taken my team off the field.
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
9:39 pm
Because any baseball is better than no baseball Uga, even in the Braves case.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:39 pm
Bobby should have brought Gonzo in, in the first place.
Scarcasm
April 27th, 2009
9:39 pm
Don’t worry guys, if we don’t win tonight we got Jo Jo pitching tomorrow. That’s a W for sure.
Scarcasm
April 27th, 2009
9:39 pm
I’m also known as Sarcasm.
Frank from KS
April 27th, 2009
9:39 pm
Ya know, when the Braves first started the run of divison titles…..they came back and won a lot of games late.
That’s all apart of confidence which this team doesn’t have and the Braves as a whole haven’t had for a long time.
cabravesfan
April 27th, 2009
9:39 pm
Ugaman-
maybe it’s the beer but I actually find myself agreeing with almost everything you’ve posted tonight…by the way, looked up your firends RLA- Really good! Thanks for the reccomendation
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:40 pm
I saw we try not to pitch to Pujols again in this game…how about that?
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
9:40 pm
Nice, sarcasm, I c wut u did thar.
Scarcasm
April 27th, 2009
9:40 pm
This is a great time for EOF to choke, btw.
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
9:40 pm
Ouch! That hurt. Surely didn’t want to see Pujols again!
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:40 pm
Hit him…to get Pujols up…..BOBBY IS A DUMB@ss….should have had Gonzo in the whole time.
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
9:41 pm
HAHAHA hit Ankiel to get to Pujols…that my friend is how you play losing baseball.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
9:41 pm
Well The Blow-Pen Doing Its Best To Lose It…Same Crap different Night…
Pujols will make us pay “Bank on It”
Eric O'Flaherty
April 27th, 2009
9:41 pm
I like to hit people with pitches which lead to seven run melt down innings.
TM
April 27th, 2009
9:42 pm
Do NOT pitch to Pujos here. Pitch around him just like STL did with Chipper!
Sarcasm
April 27th, 2009
9:42 pm
But….Gonzo is the closer and the Braves are losing.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:42 pm
Everyone say it at the same time….Pujols is the best hitter in the World…we should not pitch to him…EVER!
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:43 pm
Oh boy…I’m scared!
Blaine Boyer
April 27th, 2009
9:43 pm
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
9:43 pm
cabravesfan… you better watch it. people on the blog might think you’re an ignorant absolute homer with no baseball sense whatsoever:) Thanks for the comment on RLA. I think they’re pretty good myself!
Heath (Cleveland)
April 27th, 2009
9:43 pm
I also call for the ol’ intentional, unitentional walk.
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
9:44 pm
HAHAHAHAHAH…..Ross just gives up
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
9:44 pm
KJ doesn’t make that play.
cabravesfan
April 27th, 2009
9:44 pm
Ugaman-
I said it might be the beer! Does that give me a free pass?
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:44 pm
Infante looking like a stud.
Jeff321
April 27th, 2009
9:44 pm
Ya don’t see that every day!
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
9:44 pm
Good play Omar, or was it a bad one?
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:44 pm
3-0 to Pujols??? REally…..really!??
cabravesfan
April 27th, 2009
9:44 pm
and I freely admit that i am a Homer…I love my team and will not apologize for it.
Frank from KS
April 27th, 2009
9:45 pm
WTH was that by Ross??
Heath (Cleveland)
April 27th, 2009
9:45 pm
Sure looks like Buddy is going after Pujols…hmmm
Hi I'm new
April 27th, 2009
9:45 pm
I mean, just throw a ball, ok?
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:46 pm
Tums with a Chaser of Pepto
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
9:46 pm
Come on Buddy, walk him
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
9:46 pm
Ya this is ridiculous….STOP THROWING STRIKES BUDDY.
Hi I'm new
April 27th, 2009
9:47 pm
No really. Golf one up there. Or throw it outside. Or over his head.
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
9:47 pm
cabravesfan..if your drinking Amstel light, then we are in the same boat. In that case, you gut no pass;)
Sure like the fact that Buddy is challenging Pujols! He mays lose, but he’s not afraid!
TM
April 27th, 2009
9:47 pm
Buddy is playing with fire…
Rich
April 27th, 2009
9:47 pm
You cant be competitive with a leadoff hitter who is hitting .200.
Heath (Cleveland)
April 27th, 2009
9:47 pm
I am feeling VERY uneasy about this…why continue to pitch to him? Agree with Orel COMPLETELY…throw it off the plate
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
9:48 pm
Dammit! That Fck..in Pujols! Blow-pen Did it again! Game Over
Jeff321
April 27th, 2009
9:48 pm
Buddy Carlyle is a gamer, period.
DOB's Mom
April 27th, 2009
9:48 pm
Buddy owns Pujols
TM
April 27th, 2009
9:48 pm
WOW! Buddy got lucky.
Hi I'm new
April 27th, 2009
9:48 pm
Buddy Carlyle is a genius!
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
9:48 pm
Wow, I thought that was by the Cow when it came off his bat. Good job Buddy!
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:48 pm
EYE OF THE DAMN TIGER! THATABOY BUDDY! NEW RULE NO ONE SAYS CRAP ABOUT BUDDY FOR THE REST OF THE YEAR!!!!!!
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
9:48 pm
I take That Back…I closed My eyes, sorry…! We got Lucky
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
9:48 pm
Alright Buddy, battled King Pujols and lived to tell. He deserves a win for that one.
cabravesfan
April 27th, 2009
9:48 pm
Ugaman-
Nope…Fat Tire (forgive me?)
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
9:48 pm
Interesting at bat…I guess you go after him to try to get some momentum? Lets see how it plays out in the bottom of the 9th
bravos2249
April 27th, 2009
9:48 pm
Tomahawkin
he flew out to LF????
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
9:49 pm
Amstel Light is the beer that has one gram of protein…
Carroll Rogers
April 27th, 2009
9:49 pm
that ball actually looked good off the bat, but held up. wow.
Pujols 1 for 5 with two Ks, and Buddy Carlyle gets the out of the night.
Mark in PA
April 27th, 2009
9:49 pm
Whatever happens, Buddy has some brass.
Josh
April 27th, 2009
9:49 pm
great job Buddy!
McFann =Ô=
April 27th, 2009
9:49 pm
Oh my gosh…Chip is driving me batty tonight! He’s got some series man-love for Pujols.
Heath (Cleveland)
April 27th, 2009
9:49 pm
Got him out….but still don’t really like the decision. On to the matter at hand…can Frenchy/BJ/Ross make the gamble pay off?
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:49 pm
GRANDE CAJONES!!!!
The peanut gallery
April 27th, 2009
9:50 pm
MFin, if by “rest of the year” you mean “until tomorrow” then you’ve got yourself a deal.
bravefaninok
April 27th, 2009
9:50 pm
Buddy ……didn’t give in…big ones…
JasonInFL (Formerly ME)
April 27th, 2009
9:50 pm
Rossy going yard for the walk-off 2-run HR! No, seriously…he is.
Jordan Schafer
April 27th, 2009
9:50 pm
braves hater take your liberal mexican azz and get the hell out of this blog and the u.s.a. thanks!!! go braves!!
bravos2249
April 27th, 2009
9:50 pm
Does everyone not love how this is on ESPN and Pujols is like 0-4?
I mean good hitter, but we got good pitching.
Frank from KS
April 27th, 2009
9:50 pm
Albert’s look after he flew out made me think of Hedow (from the movie *The Rookie*).
Ya know, the movie where the kid gets to pitch for the Cubs with a magical arm.
Heath (Cleveland)
April 27th, 2009
9:50 pm
That is some seriously stupid-looking facial hair man!
The peanut gallery
April 27th, 2009
9:50 pm
Hey, at least Frenchy can’t GIDP here.
Steve from OH
April 27th, 2009
9:50 pm
Did Buddy effing Carlyle just get Albert Pujols himself out? My God, that boy’s got some stones….I love it. Attaway, Buddy.
TnBrian
April 27th, 2009
9:50 pm
Carrol, will you give Chip a courtesy slap on the back of the head for us Braves fans being torchered having to listlen to this guy? I think he fell out of the booth when Albert hit that fly ball.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:51 pm
RALLY CAPS ON!!!
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
9:51 pm
How good would Jason Bay look right now in LF?
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
9:51 pm
Let’s start the Walk’a'thon.
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
9:51 pm
My first time drinking Amstel light. I usually like St. Paulie’s Girl or New Castle. Haven’t ever heard of Fat Tire. Do they sell it in GA?
cabravesfan
April 27th, 2009
9:51 pm
McFann your 9:49 cracked me up
It’s not nearly as bad as the Man Crush the announcers had for Captain Derek Jeter during the WBC
DOB's Mom
April 27th, 2009
9:51 pm
I think the movie is Rookie of the Year.
TM
April 27th, 2009
9:51 pm
Ugaman – you’re a moron. like the way he challenging Pujos… not afraid.
It was stupid as helll to pitch to him. They were a fraction away from it being 6-3. Cards did it the right way with chipper. Braves got lucky for pitching to Pujos.
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
9:51 pm
Frenchy tried to tie on both swings
cabravesfan
April 27th, 2009
9:52 pm
Ugaman-
No idea…probably
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
9:52 pm
Hey ESPN, JF is not a dangerous hitter.
bravos2249
April 27th, 2009
9:53 pm
Whenever we really need Jeff, at least when he leads off an inning he goes back to the old Jeff. Swing Swing Out. Not always K, but an out.
Mark in PA
April 27th, 2009
9:53 pm
Dang- MLB.com is about two minutes behind everyone else. You all knew how Buddy vs. Albert ended long before I did!
Rally caps in place, everyone…
Heath (Cleveland)
April 27th, 2009
9:53 pm
Very inauspicious beginning to the inning ( in honor of great past announcers…you know who )
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
9:53 pm
Tough two strike hitter here BJ
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
9:54 pm
UGA..fat tire is a very yummy beer..coming to ga in may
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:54 pm
Good AB Brandon Jones!!!!
DOB's Mom
April 27th, 2009
9:55 pm
Back below .500.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:55 pm
Good try BJ that was impressive at bat.
Jeff321
April 27th, 2009
9:55 pm
Ha, Joe Simpson said the Cards pitcher looks like he got some upholstery stuck on his chin.
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
9:55 pm
Not a strike there
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
9:55 pm
Rossie? Really Bobby?
PWHjort
April 27th, 2009
9:56 pm
Just fixed my internet. My observations from the game thus far:
1) If Escobar makes 1 more base-running mistake with Chipper Jones at the plate or coming up next, especially with 2 outs, his legs should be amputated.
2) Kelly Johnson, looks like sh!t. In the field, at the plate, and I’m confident he would on the base paths too IF HE EVER GOT ON.
3) Good move by Bobby to leave Infante in the game at 2B. That way, if we needed a pinch-hitter against a lefty late in the game against Schafer we could’ve use Prado then put Infante in CF.
4) LaRussa has managed this game extremely well. I usually don’t like watching Tony LaRussa’s 6-pitcher marathon games, but he’s managed this game extremely well. Especially the way he’s using his base runners.
5) You can’t hit into 2 double plays and expect to win.
6) I’d have rather seen Francoeur work the count and try to get a hit or walk with runners at 2nd and 3rd nobody out down 2 rather than jump on the first pitch for a sac fly.
That’s all I got right now.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:56 pm
Ross is a nice guy…gets screwed over…and doesnt complain!
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
9:56 pm
As I called It, The Pick-off and Walking the Pitcher. In other Words “Dumb Basball”, Plus our Anemic Offense Cost Double J and the Braves Tonight…
If we Lose, We lose in Braves Style, By 1 Run, Gawd This offense Sucks!
Philles Pitching is Getting Slapped by the AAA Nats Thankfully
Stephen
April 27th, 2009
9:56 pm
Love this team, woot woot.
Run Heap Run
April 27th, 2009
9:57 pm
Well….at least it was a good game.
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
9:57 pm
Terrible game braves.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:57 pm
Game over. More base-running errors cost us. Along with walks from the bullpen. KJ and Esco riding the pine tomrorow…Prado and Infante starting.
BOO
April 27th, 2009
9:57 pm
As per ususl, game over with a whimper. This team is DONE when trailing by one little run going into the final third of the game.
9-10
bravesfannd
April 27th, 2009
9:58 pm
that strike 1 call on ross was damn near a foot outside… wow.
braves just lost this series
April 27th, 2009
9:58 pm
with no-no reyes going tomorrow night this series is all but over. lets just pray we dont swept.
P-Town Brave (Kelly Johnson Sucks!)
April 27th, 2009
9:58 pm
We SUCK AGAIN!
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
9:58 pm
Well I see that Braves Fans are Already thinking wisely about not Spending money on going to the Games at the TED, Hence the Sparse Crowd…
What A Boring Game That was…
PWHjort
April 27th, 2009
9:58 pm
We looked like crap. The only person with an extra base hit was Kotchman, who actually looked great at the plate and in the field.
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
9:58 pm
TM…wow, did it take a lot of thought to call me a moron? Yes, Buddy did take a chance, but he didn’t wilt under the pressure like alot of our other relievers would have. He kept throwing strikes and moving the ball in and out. That’s text book pitching in a tight situation I don’t care who it is. Bobby’s got to find out who he can trust in the bullpen and what better time to do it than then when the pressure is on.
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
9:58 pm
I feel bad for Jair Cy Young Jurrjens….kid cant get a break.
Rob from SC
April 27th, 2009
9:59 pm
Does anyone doubt Bobby (Hall of Famer) Cox runs the same sorry ass lineup out there tomorrow
jair wants to be traded
April 27th, 2009
10:00 pm
this team is choke central.
TnBrian
April 27th, 2009
10:00 pm
Moylan has to learn not to walk pitchers. It would’ve been tied and we’d have had the advantage at home, but Peter got a mental block.
a643dp
April 27th, 2009
10:00 pm
If Bobby doesnt bench KJ tues. he is being more stubborn than anything. Kelly should in gwinnett. Period!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
10:01 pm
What are our record in one run games?!
18 Wheels of Love
April 27th, 2009
10:01 pm
Can’t make chicken salad out of chicken shazbot.
We need an upgrade at 2 positions. I’ll let you guess which 2 I’m thinking of.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
10:02 pm
Rob From SC
You Know He will Run the same Slop lineup out there tomorrow night…
What’s the Count on 1-Run losses I lost Count after Pittsburgh…
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
10:03 pm
Funny, eveybody was all about KJ in September and the first week of the season when he was raking and carrying the team. He’s in a slump. He’ll come out of it and carry the team again. He’s not the only reason the Braves have lost the last two games. Some other players have to pick up the others when someone is struggling. Right now, everyone is struggling. We knew this was going to be the case this year, so why is everyone so surprised by it?
MFin04
April 27th, 2009
10:03 pm
Daer God not the same lineup….anything to switch up….ANYTHING!!!!!
brewdawg
April 27th, 2009
10:03 pm
Folks, for goodness sake, it was a good ballgame, we just happened to be on the losing end tonight. We’ll win our share of these. The division is wide open. 9-10 does not mean the end of the season, just as the 11-1 start by the marlins didn’t mean they were going to run away with the division. I mean, i see the same posters year after year flip out after every loss. It is a looooooooooong season. It is waaaay too early to make judgements. Simma down now!
THanson
April 27th, 2009
10:04 pm
Well at least Tommy Hanson is getting prepped well in gwinnett… 0-3 with a 2.18 ERA
Good pitching with no run support
Jeff321
April 27th, 2009
10:05 pm
Guess its almost time for a little Dodgers action on KCAL.
njbraves
April 27th, 2009
10:07 pm
This offense makes me sick. Braves hitters must have the lowest IQ in baseball. They have some of the worst at-bats you’ll ever see…never work a pitcher…never lay off “pitcher’s pitches”…never come through in a big spot. It’s the same crap over and over again. I really question why I put myself through this everyday.
monty
April 27th, 2009
10:07 pm
Where is my John Wayne
Where is my prairie son
Where is my happy ending
Where have all the cowboys gone?
THat sums it up. A team without any heroes who can rise to the occassion. Every time we get the tying run in scoring position, nobody, nobody, can deliver. It’s been that way all year. Nobody puts the team on their back. Nobody is clutch, nobody. Not when it counts late in the game, trying to make a comeback. It’s got to the point where it is mental.
ABravesFan
April 27th, 2009
10:08 pm
Please call up the kids.
Rex
April 27th, 2009
10:09 pm
Amazing Stat: In last 11 games, Braves are 4-7, but more telling, is that if you take away two games in Cincy and Pitt,
the Braves are averaging:
1.8 runs a game in the other 9 games (and have gone 2-7 in those 9).
Bottom line is that the offense has got to be able to consistently put up 4-5 runs per game and if they don’t, it will be a struggle all year.
18 Wheels of Love
April 27th, 2009
10:09 pm
ABravesFan…more like send down the kids.
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
10:09 pm
brewdawg i’m with you. I said it earlier, the cards are a good team but you hate to keep wasting good pitching performances. But it is early and this division is sucking right now so no need to press the panic button yet.
And on KJ he really needs a break. Screw whatever I think about his streakiness. The look on his face after that DP said it all. Hopefully Bobby finally sees fit to give him one.
McFann =Ô=
April 27th, 2009
10:10 pm
WHY IS THE BLOG IS EATING MY POSTS???! Grrr…
cabravesfan–
Thanks. Yeah, I remember you talkin’ about those WBC guys…ridiculous!
Crud…I’m told I need to wind it up. Leave some good news for me to wake up to, please!!
monty
April 27th, 2009
10:11 pm
Get picked off of first with Chipper up, then you walk the pitcher leading off the next inning, like thats not going to bite you on the rear! The little things that separate winners from losers!
jair wants to be traded
April 27th, 2009
10:12 pm
brewdawg,
no offense, i dont like calling out fellow braves fans but i have seen posters like yourself for the last 3 seasons keep saying its a long season. all the way up to august when we are 15 games back. then….you all vanish.
McFann =Ô=
April 27th, 2009
10:12 pm
cabravesfan–
This stupid thing is eating my posts…sorry.
Anyway, thanks. Yeah, I remember you talkin’ about those WBC guys…ridiculous!
Crud…I’m told I need to wind it up. Leave some good news for me to wake up to, please!!
bravos2249
April 27th, 2009
10:12 pm
I’ll be honest I don’t hate KJ, but I’ve never been in LOVE with him as some seem to be. He’s not a bad player, and when he’s going good I give him his props/dues whatever you want to call it. When he’s stinking it up of course I’m going to say something about it. Yes every player goes through a slump, BUT he’s up and down consistently throughout the year. I still think he should play, but not hit lead off. Now I don’t have a clue who would, cause it’s too early for Schafer right now, but what Bobby does is what we have to live with, and it’s just baseball.
Jeff321
April 27th, 2009
10:13 pm
Does anyone know who was suppose to cover second on that pick off attempt? (The one where Infante dove for it.)
bravos2249
April 27th, 2009
10:13 pm
Now I will agree getting picked off 1st is dumb, but it’s not like some no name picked him off.
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
10:14 pm
The Nats have a will to lose , except when they play us of course. Currently working on trying to give up their 4th lead. That Philly starting pitching is something else.
monty
April 27th, 2009
10:15 pm
Jeff 321
Esco was laughing his butt off, Infante was shaking his head like “I nearly screwed up.” If that tells you anything.
bravos2249
April 27th, 2009
10:15 pm
Jeff321
Honestly the way Infante dived for it I’d guess Escobar. Because the fact that Infante saw the throw to react but didn’t advance towards the base probably means he wasn’t suppose to cover. I’d also think the SS would be better to cover since the runner can see the 2nd baseman better. IDK.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
10:16 pm
Where Is COACH At…?
I did enough bashing of our Anemic offense tonight…I’m ready to hear his keys to how Bobby C. F’d this Game up tonight…
Where Has Carroll Been at…I guess The our Anemic Offense lulled her to sleep…Can’t blame her.
18 Wheels of Love
April 27th, 2009
10:16 pm
Infante, hence his full body layout to grab it.
JasonInFL (Formerly ME)
April 27th, 2009
10:17 pm
Raul Ibanez just hit a GS to put the Phils up again…
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
10:17 pm
Washington, R U Fcking Serious…! Everybody has their way with them except out Crap A..s Offense…!
chop39
April 27th, 2009
10:18 pm
Thanks Nationals.. just gave up another grand slam 13-11 philly
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
10:18 pm
As I type that Raul Ibanez hits a grand slam. How did we lose a series to this team. I’ll go Milli Vanilli here and blame it on the rain.
Dumbfounded
April 27th, 2009
10:18 pm
She’s probably is trying to get an interview with that stiff who don’t give a damn about winning !!
18 Wheels of Love
April 27th, 2009
10:18 pm
How about the lame attendance tonight? Cards usually pack ‘em in. Not a good sign.
Frankie Knuckles
April 27th, 2009
10:18 pm
So I missed the game, how bad did KJ look? He seems to do really well when the pressures off and vice versa. At least Kotchman showed up.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
10:18 pm
Braves F.O. Went Cheap and Didn’t Go After Raul Ibanez and Look what happens…He is Clowning for our Rival…
Random
April 27th, 2009
10:19 pm
MFin04 (9:35 pm): “Bennett has not been that good this year…he has given up A LOT OF RUNS…they just havent been his.”
Three of the five runners Bennett has inherited in his ten appearances have scored.
Add them to his “official” 1 earned run (for a worst case scenario), spread them over his 9.1 IP and you get a “deserved ERA” of 3.85.
Which is stil better than Moylan, Reyes, Carlyle, Campillo, O’Flaherty, Gonzalez and Parr — even before you adjust theie ERAs for any inherited runners they may have let score.
CorkylikesBeer
April 27th, 2009
10:20 pm
Toma..we got Mr. Anderson….
brewdawg
April 27th, 2009
10:21 pm
Jair wants to be traded,
None taken man. You make a good point. However, in the days before the blogs, the Braves would almost always get out of the gates slowly, and I would always panic. Then the Braves would come out of it. I’m honestly not living in the past, I’m just trying to keep things in perspective. I do not feel the Braves will be 15 out in August, but if they are, I’ll promise to keep blogging.
JasonInFL (Formerly ME)
April 27th, 2009
10:22 pm
Dexter Fowler has 5 SBs…in tonight’s game!
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
10:22 pm
OK all. good chatting with all of you. haven’t had that much blog action in a while. good job, stephen, tomahawkin and everyone else who gave me hell. I can take it. I’m an avid braves fan, and I’ve tried not to let the past 3 years put me in a negative mood. Yes, I’m one that always believes the glass is half full and I hope that I always will be. This was a great game tonight, even though we lost we were in the game until the last at bat. That’s really all you can ask out of your team. If they are this competitive in most of their games this year, then they will win their fair share and be in it in September. Keep the faith people!
Dumbfounded
April 27th, 2009
10:23 pm
I hope the fans continue not to come to the games !! With a bad economy who wants to see that @#$%! the Braves are putting out and lose their hard earn money !! How in the hell the Phillies come from four back of Atlanta and now leads them three games ! Sorry a@3 ! team ! Sorry a@# !!
18 Wheels of Love
April 27th, 2009
10:24 pm
Tell the folks who cna go to games regularly to keep the faith too….need to keep those ticket sales up.
cabravesfan
April 27th, 2009
10:24 pm
I’m one that always believes the glass is half full and I hope that I always will be.
I knew there was a reason I liked you ugaman despite you being a Georgia man
I’m the same way…drives my friends crazy
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
10:24 pm
Attendance during the week is usually pretty weak and especially during the school year. We’ll see how bad were really doing when school gets out for the summer. If were down we surely won’t be the only team this summer.
Mark in PA
April 27th, 2009
10:25 pm
P-Town, were you calling on the Waterboy? The actual quote is
“Oh, No! We suck again!”
I’m seeing a pattern emerge… Every six days, the bats wake up.
4/12 vs. Nats- 8 runs. (4/13 was off)
4/18 vs. Pirates – 10 runs
4/25 vs. Cincy – 8 runs
Everything in between was total crap- mostly losing, with two walk-in wins.
Don’t know what this means, beyond the fact that our offense has blown pretty consistently for two weeks solid. With our great pitching, maybe we’ll win an award for best PF/PA of a losing team.
Look out Houston on Friday! Until then…
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
10:25 pm
UGAMAN I wasn’t Bashing You But after watching the Phillies Manhandle the Nats Pitching, I see Why I go Off on this team everynight for making average pitchers look like Cy Young…Now we lose a game to the Phils…and we can’t take that “Oh Its Another Loss” philosopy in this hard A..s Division…
TnBrian
April 27th, 2009
10:25 pm
I love my Braves and always will, but I’m starting to worry about them. Not necessarily them losing because it’s early and all the teams in this division have problems, some with BIG problems. But, these “it’s anybody’s game” types are us losing in the majority again. Who’s to blame? Cox, T.P.,Kelly… WHO? It’s a mixture of things and the thing that stands out in my mind is still Wren’s decision to sign Kawa. to such a big contract when he and everybody else knew a big bat(not Garret FU** Anderson) was absolutely a main priority.
Turtsnap
April 27th, 2009
10:26 pm
Tonight we saw the difference between a good team and a mediocre team…. I believe that would be 3-2!
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
10:29 pm
DumbFounded, Your Qoute
“I hope the fans continue not to come to the games !! With a bad economy who wants to see that @#$%! the Braves are putting out and lose their hard earn money !! How in the hell the Phillies come from four back of Atlanta and now leads them three games ! Sorry a@3 ! team ! Sorry a@# !!”
I will Co-Sign If I had gone to the Game tonight I would not probably not go back again…That game Was Boring and Not worth the 60 bucks…Hell I can throw a Braves party at my house and have twice as much fun than to watch those overpaid millionaires played “Businessman-like” Baseball…
What a Waste…
mbatl
April 27th, 2009
10:30 pm
Honestly, in April, I’d take a 3-2 loss to one of the best teams in the NL over Philly’s apparent 13-11 win over the Nats, when their (the Phils’) starting pitcher gives up 3 HR and 6 ER in 4.1, and their pen allows another 5 in 4.2.
Scoring slumps tend to come to an end. It’s gonna be okay, people. Quit whining!
Random
April 27th, 2009
10:31 pm
MFin04 (9:39 pm): “Bobby should have brought Gonzo in, in the first place.”
The first two batters Moylan faced in the 7th hit right-handed. He got the first and third batters to ground out — his main problem was he waklked the pitcher. After that, the only hit was a ground ball single that made it through, and then he struck out Pujols.
Are you saying that Cox should have anticipated Moylan walking the pitcher and not used him?
NCBravesFan
April 27th, 2009
10:32 pm
Joel Piniero? Seriously?!
TnBrian
April 27th, 2009
10:32 pm
I say that if we don’t see an improvement within the next month or so, we really do need to just stay off thing…at least concerning the Braves. There’s no sense in us getting all riled up over something we have no control over. Who’s in?
Carroll Rogers
April 27th, 2009
10:32 pm
BMac is headed to Myrtle Beach to play two games there – Tuesday and Wednesday – to try out the new contacts he was fitted for. yes, he’s to wear two contacts this time, not just one on the left eye. He played a little catch at the ballpark Monday night to see how it would feel and it went well enough for him to want to get in a game and test it out.
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
10:34 pm
Carroll, B-mac is on the dl right? I didn’t think he could play in the minors or anywhere for that matter if he was on the dl.
Doc Holiday
April 27th, 2009
10:35 pm
Positve:
1. Kotchman is looking pretty damn solid.
2. Infante keeps showing what a solid guy he is.
3. JF keeps hitting it the other way
4. bullpen was solid.
5. Bennett taken out at just the right time…………kudos to cox
6. SP keeps performing solid……..this is not an april thing……. pitching will be here all season.
Negative stuff:
1. Cox is doing the same stoopit thing he did with JF and AJ…………having 100 000 times more patient with KJ than he should. Old man, the solution is so simple………. hit him 6 or 7th and youll see a guy coming out of a slump as fast as a sneeze.
2. Frenchy swinging for the fence in the 9th……..boy……….if you are not hot right now……..just try to get on base, you are not a HR
3. The inability to tie a game late when we have the chance.
4. another 1 run loss
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
10:35 pm
C-Roge Is Back…
Well It Doesn’t even Make Me feel any better to know that we have the same record as the Bankees…
I’m still P’d off at the Fact that the Phillies had their Way with the Nats and we Scored 6 Gawd Damn Runs in a series we should’ve swept easily…
Philly scored 6 runs in that eighth inning…ARRRGGGHHHH!
Dumbfounded
April 27th, 2009
10:37 pm
I know right Tomahawkin ?! you can do bad all by yourself !! Does anyone think all the Braves Millionaire players feel passionate about losing a game they should have won ?!! When I look at the Braves, I see the when is the next pay day check !! I really don’t see them caring ! I wish the passionate fans who want to win should be able to take their place and recieve their pay !!!
cvbraves
April 27th, 2009
10:37 pm
Very nice game, Braves, against probably the Central champs. Don’t need to hang your heads after this one.
Jeff321
April 27th, 2009
10:37 pm
Andre Either is hitting .842 against left handed pitching.
Bob
April 27th, 2009
10:37 pm
April blunders bring May losses.
Here are the reasons why May will not be any better than April
1. Speed. We have none.
2. Power. We have mild to moderate.
3. Avg. We have moderate to good but inconsistent.
4. Starters. Pitch count too high…will wear down starters.
5. Relievers. Roles not yet firmly established…thus inconsistent.
6. Managers. No excitement….getting ejected is no longer the key to getting fired up…bobby ball is not winning ball.
Kelly Johnson's Bowl of Sad
April 27th, 2009
10:38 pm
Positives:
1. Didn’t cry when Bobby pulled me.
Negatives:
1. The season isn’t over.
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
10:39 pm
Phillies do have some srious pitching problems. they may have come back against the Nats but thats the Nats. The comebacks against the Marlins were against their pen which everybody knew wasn’t strong and they beat up on someone making their major league debut Sunday. I’m gonna go out on a limb here and say unless they get some starting pitching from somewhere there will be no repeat.
Rock On....
April 27th, 2009
10:40 pm
Rex….when you score less than 4 runs you lose 80% of the time. This was one of those games that went the Cards way but it is especially tough as the Braves only gave up 3 runs. Statistically they lost a game they will win 80% of the time. If you don’t you have a really bad team on your hands.
Honestly can’t believe Escobar was not given an error in the 1st inning on that high school caliber back hand. Wow. OK, home cooking by the scorer I guess.
Folks I hate to be an I told you so but… I told you so. Prado needs to be playing 2nd base and batting everyday. What is wrong with KJ being the sub? Man I hate to sound like a broken record but isn’t it obvious?
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
10:40 pm
tomohawkin…they make pepto or tums for that!
Random
April 27th, 2009
10:40 pm
MFin04 (9:40 pm): “I say we try not to pitch to Pujols again in this game…how about that?”
Oh sure — of course.
‘Cause when you wrote that, Pujols had already torn up Braves pitching to the tune of 1 for 4, 2 K, 0 Rs and 0 RBIs, with 6 LOB. But he was so-o-o-o-o-o scary doing it.
And then looky, looky — Carlyle gets him to fly out to LF.
Sure better walk him 4 times tomorrow so we don’t see a repeat of tonight’s awesome performance, huh?
Dumbfounded
April 27th, 2009
10:40 pm
Anybody want to bet a $100.00 that Cox will have Kelly Johnson in the starting line up ?!! Any takers ?!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
10:43 pm
Dumbfounded
Someone Mention that the 90′S braves had something that this team has been missing for years, And that Is the Ability to come back from behind in games…The World Champion Phillies have done it all season, and We have not, that separates us from the good teams and has for the last 3 years…With our anemic offense now we give up more than 2 runs and this team quits, WTF…
It seems like this team takes a Blaze approach at losing games by 1-run over the last year…Its like they’re used to it, No Pride at all shown by this team…
With the Way this team has been “Playing With My Emotions, I’m seriously on the line of turning into that Fan From Major League 2 who bashes the team left and right…
Sarah
April 27th, 2009
10:43 pm
Dumb Anderson and Glavine and bring in Hanson and Heyward. Im sick of waiting on the young talent while the old slobs hang out on the DL to prove something. This is a whole team and they deserve better. While we are waiting on Glavine, JO NO is blowing games and Hanson is kept down. Dont want to start that arbitration clock. They would reather loose games. I for one am sick of having space setters taking down our lineup. Glavine and Anderson are both way done and its time for the new to take over. Way past time.
Smoltz, Glavine and Maddux are done. Only one of them is man enough to say its over. The other two will fight on and take their teams down with them. The big three should have all retired together. Its over. Its time to move on.
Necromancer
April 27th, 2009
10:44 pm
I heard Chip and Joe go on about how the Cardinals were aggressive and played hard all the time. Can’t say that about the Braves. They’re anything but aggressive.
They do not have the look of a team that wants to win. They are so disappointing to watch, especially after 3 years of no playoffs. Just friggin’ pathetic.
Random
April 27th, 2009
10:44 pm
MFin04 (9:40 pm): “Hit him…to get Pujols up…..BOBBY IS A DUMB@ss….should have had Gonzo in the whole time.”
Ri-i-i-i-ight — in the 7th, 8th AND 9th. (Remember, you wanted Gonzalez instead of Moylan in the 7th.)
Tomas
April 27th, 2009
10:45 pm
Good pitching tonight, but the walk to the pitcher really hurted. There is something about this cardinals, that it seems like they make absolutely 0 mistakes against the Braves, and always take advantage of almost every opportunity.
Great defense from Yadier Molina, Albert Pujols, and Brendan Ryan was awesome. They always play hard that’s for sure.
Tomorrow hopefully the Braves will hit some balls that they can’t catch.
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
10:45 pm
Just in case anyone is interested. The Hawks beat the Heat tonight to even the series. Woodson made an adjustment (finally) by leaving ZaZa in while he was being a menace on the boards. It paid off as his hustle plays probably won the game for the Hawks.
Dumbfounded
April 27th, 2009
10:45 pm
Hang your head ?! Hang your head ?!! Give me a @#$%! BREAK !!!!!!! You see ! My point !! You have Braves fans that feel the say way as the Braves players !! They just don’t give a @#$%!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
PWHjort
April 27th, 2009
10:45 pm
I wasn’t too thrilled with Jeff Francoeur’s hack-happy mentality with runners at 2nd and 3rd and nobody out in whatever inning that was. I mean, it’s ok to hit a first pitch you know you can do something with, but we both know Francoeur can’t handle breaking pitches very well. He gets an 0-0 breaking ball that he fishes from below the zone for a fly-ball out. At that point, down 2, I’d rather have him work the count and play for a big inning. I don’t know if I’ve Bobby or Francoeur to accuse of this stupidity, but this crap has got to change. I’m sick of us settling for 1 run.
SoWeGa Fanatic
April 27th, 2009
10:46 pm
“IF KELLY JOHNSON WAS A MINORITY HE WOULD HAVE BEEN GONE A LONG TIME AGO, THE SOUTH HAS A LONG WAY TO GO. I DONT THINK THE BRAVES WILL EVER GET THERE, SAD STORY.” Braveshater, you are stuck in the past plus you’re an idiot.
Tomas
April 27th, 2009
10:47 pm
McCann should have his lasik surgery and get his eye problem fixed for good instead of just messing with contact lenses again.
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
10:49 pm
Wearing two contacts might actually solve the problem for McCann. I wear contacts and when I only have one in, it feels really weird. The air just hits your eye without the contact in and you can definately tell somethings just a little off. Maybe this will work.
Coach (2010 or bust)
April 27th, 2009
10:50 pm
Run support, offense. It ain’t there. 4.26 runs per game…..Abysmal.
Steve Phillips busting on our Braves total absence of speed and the running game on national TV is embarrassing. Unfortunately, he is right.
Jeff321
April 27th, 2009
10:50 pm
McCann should have his lasik surgery and get his eye problem fixed for good instead of just messing with contact lenses again.
Do they usually “operate” while the eye has an infection? Isn’t that something you’d want to eradicate first??
Jake W.
April 27th, 2009
10:51 pm
Hawks tried to blow that game in the 2nd quarter but i’ll take it. We needed one win in Miami and we got it.
Tomas
April 27th, 2009
10:51 pm
Kelly Johnson is really struggling after being the best hitter on the team for nearly two weeks. I hope Bobby moves Schafer to the leadoff spot soon.
Dr Hoo
April 27th, 2009
10:52 pm
2 negative observations….
1) Francoeur came up twice with a runner at 2nd and nobody out and failed to advance either runner. This cost us the game. Let’s quit praising the average and 2 out RBIs until he can execute like a professional in important situations when there is some pressure.
2) Our relief corps seems to be worse when we are down a run. As soon as PM came in with us down a run, I knew we were going to give up a run, it’s automatic. We were lucky it was only one. If Boyer were still here it would have been 5.
That said, love the starting pitching (minus Kawabunga) and I expect that will keep us in the hunt all year.
Ugaman
April 27th, 2009
10:52 pm
Steve Philips is always busting on the Braves. He’s just still mad because when he was the GM at NY the braves pounded his Metros every freakin year. The Braves are the reason he got fired. Do you really think his comments on the Braves and Bobby cox aren’t biased?
Dumbfounded
April 27th, 2009
10:54 pm
That’s right Sarah ! The Braves in 2005 brought up Mccain and Francoeur because Raul Monguesi was a bust and the Braves was struggling and all Brian and Jeff did was to help the Braves win their 13 in a row division championship ! Bring the damn kids up again !! Who’s to say it won’t happen again !!!!
Dumbfounded
April 27th, 2009
10:57 pm
Sorry about my spelling ! I’m angry damn IT !!
Macon Braves (RIP)
April 27th, 2009
11:00 pm
DOC— Your 10:35 post was spot on.
uga-brave
April 27th, 2009
11:00 pm
average baseball team playing poor baseball. 4-9 in the last 13.
no power at 1st base or any of the outfield positions.
everyone but smilin frank can see it.
SoWeGa Fanatic
April 27th, 2009
11:04 pm
Couldn’t see the game as ESPN is blacked out 178 south of the game…stupid.
Some observations from reading the blog:
1)Good news on BMac, but catcher is not the problem.
2)There are a lot of “I told you..I called that…” baloney builders on here.
3)Depending on who you listen to, this game was lost by Kelly J, Escobar, Moylan, JJ, Bobby Cox, Frank Wren, Kotchman, or Chipper.
Negativity is king of the blog. Yuk.
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
11:05 pm
Too Bad This Isn’t 1999, Because I would’ve rather watched Rasslin (If it was the good 1999 Attitude era stuff) to than watch these Boring Clowns get taken to School by one of the Teams I hate Most…
SoWeGa Fanatic
April 27th, 2009
11:07 pm
“1) Francoeur came up twice with a runner at 2nd and nobody out and failed to advance either runner. This cost us the game.”
Oooops. Add Francoeur to the list of who lost the game.
Carroll Rogers
April 27th, 2009
11:10 pm
ugaman, he’s on the disabled list, but these games qualify as a minor league rehab assignment. Sory I didn’t clarify that
Tomahawkin
April 27th, 2009
11:10 pm
Too All The Bloggers In Here…???
How Can you Say That there was Good that Came out of this Game When All of us Know That Bobby C. And his Posse are gonna go out there tomorrow with the same Philosopy, Same Attitude, Same Lineup, Etc, and Play the Same way as they’ve had the last 2 weeks and will get the same results as they’ve had the last two weeks…Call Me Negative If you Want to, But I’m also a Realist, and These Crappy/Boring games getting old…Especially for a team that had a lot of hype/Optomism coming Out of Spring Training…
Carroll Rogers
April 27th, 2009
11:11 pm
Raul Monguesi? That’s a new one!
monty
April 27th, 2009
11:13 pm
Tell me anybody who has come through in the clutch late in the game since Schafer scored that winning run the first week of the season? No one. Who has gotten a game winning hit or a hit to tie up a game after the 6th inning this year in a close game??
Dumbfounded
April 27th, 2009
11:13 pm
Yeah ! We are negative because we are tried of this @#$%! !! I’m so desperate one name “BARRY BONDS” !! I don’t care what kind of circus that may follow ! Just for this season !! The man can still rake !! I think ?!
Carroll Rogers
April 27th, 2009
11:14 pm
Thought you’d appreciate these nuggets from Chipper in the post-game clubhouse.
“We continue to waste JJ’s good outing with bad offensive performances,” Jones said. “Until we start doing something at the top, we’re going to continue to struggle. We’re just not getting anything generated at the top of the lineup offensively. We’re continuing to make baserunning mistakes at inopportune times. You walk pitchers, you’re not going to win a lot of games.”
And when I pointed out that they probably felt like they should win when they hold Pujols to 1-for-5.
“Take that man, I don’t think we got him out four times all year last year,” Jones said. “The guys did a good job of keeping him at bay, keeping everybody at bay. We pitched, and we played defense. We just didn’t hit. Just didn’t hit. Kotch had a good game. Aside from that it was pretty slim pickings.”
2Kelly Johnson/ATLBRAVES
April 27th, 2009
11:16 pm
Bobby won’t sit me as he made me a promise that if I struggle at any point, he will let me play through it. You fans are upset, meanwhile, we were all laughing and joking in the clubhouse. We have fun and you guys should just chill the heck out. Expect me leading off for awhile. Prado is an excellent player, but the one who makes the decisions, Mr. Cox, makes out the lineup card each game, so I don’t know what to tell ya. We all appreciate you fans and that’s the truth. We love you guys! Things will surely get better…..
Dumbfounded
April 27th, 2009
11:16 pm
I didn’t mean to go get Monguesi Carroll !! Merely pointing out that he was a buster !!!!!!!!!!!
Random
April 27th, 2009
11:17 pm
Re-post for the night shift:
getnathan (10:42 am), (11:40 am), (11:49 am): “Kawakami is getting done in by one bad inning in his starts, so that says to me that the teams catch up to his pitching pattern and hit him. . . . It looks like he’ll pitch 4 scoreless innings and give up 1 or 2 hits, and then in the 5th he’ll give up 3 or 4 runs. . . . It seems like he’ll pitch scoreless ball for four or five innings, but then give up 3 or 4 runs in an inning, thus making his whole start when in actuality he didn’t pitch that badly. . . . “
Doc Holiday (11:50 am): “He has good stuff but second time around he is getting hammered.”
No, not really.
Actually, not at all.
In his first start, against Washington (4/11), Kawakami went 6.0 IP and gave up earned runs in the 1st (1 ER) and 3rd (2 ERs) innings (3 total ERs).
He faced 25 batters. First time thru the line-up, he gave up 2 Hs, 2 BBs and got 3 Ks; 1 ER. 35 total pitches, or 3.88 pitches per batter.
Second time thru, he gave up 2 Hs, 2 BBs and got 3 Ks; 2 ERs. 31 total pitches, or 3.44 pitches per batter.
He pitched to the first 7 batters in the Nats line-up a third time — 0 Hs, 0 BBs and 2 Ks; 0 ERs. 23 total pitches, or 3.29 pitches per batter.
. . .
In his second start, against Florida (4/16), Kawakami went 6.0 IP and gave up earned runs in the 2nd (2 ERs) and 6th (2 ERs) innings (4 total ERs).
He faced 27 batters. First time thru the line-up, he gave up 2 Hs, 1 BB and got 1 K; 2 ERs. 29 total pitches, or 3.22 pitches per batter.
Second time thru, he gave up 2 Hs, 1 BB and got 2 Ks; 0 ERs. 41 total pitches, or 4.56 pitches per batter.
Third time thru, he gave up 1 H, 1 BB and got 4 Ks (the top of the order — batters 1-4); 2 ERs. 39 total pitches, or 4.33 pitches per batter.
. . .
In his third start, at Washington (4/21), Kawakami went 5.0 IP and gave up earned runs in the 2nd (1 ER) and 6th (1 ER) innings (2 total ERs).
He faced 24 batters. First time thru the line-up, he gave up 4 Hs, 1 BB and got 1 K; 1 ER. 40 total pitches, or 4.44 pitches per batter.
Second time thru, he gave up 0 Hs, 2 BBs and got 1 K; 0 ER. 38 total pitches, or 4.22 pitches per batter.
He pitched to the first 6 batters in the Marlins line-up a third time — 3 Hs, 0 BBs and 0 Ks; 1 ER. 15 total pitches, or 2.50 pitches per batter.
See DAP for analysis.
. . .
In his fourth start, at Cincinnati (4/26), Kawakami went 4.2 IP and gave up “earned” runs in the 4th (2 ERs) and 5th (6 “ERs”) innings (8 total “ERs”).
He faced 23 batters. First time thru the line-up, he gave up 0 Hs, 1 BB and got 0 Ks; 0 ERs. 32 total pitches, or 3.56 pitches per batter.
Second time thru, he gave up 4 Hs, 0 BBs and got 1 K; 4 “ERs”. 27 total pitches, or 3.00 pitches per batter.
He pitched to the first 5 batters in the Marlins line-up a third time — 4 Hs, 0 BBs and 0 Ks; 4 “ERs”. 19 total pitches, or 3.80 pitches per batter.
As previously discussed, it was the worst of bad luck that prevented Kawakami from completing a scoreless 5th.
. . .
. . .
Conclusion: Kawakami he does NOT get worse and worse as he goes thru the opponents’ line-ups a second and third time. (Though he does probably tire toward the ends of his starts. Like most pitchers.)
Throwing out yesterday’s fluky fifth inning, in his first four starts Kawakami has been as good or better the second time thru the opponent’s line-up as he is the first time.
First time — 8 Hs, 5 BBs, 5 Ks, 4 ERs, 3.78 pitches per batter.
Second time — 7 Hs, 5 BBs, 7 Ks, 4 ERs, 3.81 pitches per batter.
And his third time thru the line-up is no worse than his first time (throwing out yesterday’s fluky fifth inning). Thru his first three starts, in which he pitched a third time to 7, 9 and 6 batters respectively (ie, he missed the 7th batter once, and the 8th and 9th batters twice each):
First time — 8 Hs, 4 BBs, 5 Ks, 4 ERs, 3.85 pitches per batter.
Third time — 4 Hs, 1 BB, 6 Ks, 3 ERs, 3.50 pitches per batter.
And to repeat — on his third time thru the Marlins’ line-up, ke struck out their first four batters — Bonifacio, Amezaga, HRamirez and Cantu.
In Kawakami’s case, familiarity does not breed contempt.
PS: Somebody oughta check my math.
Not Really A Rant
April 27th, 2009
11:18 pm
Not really going to rag on the Braves by calling names and questioning certain players and managers manhood, but I do think you can make observations without calling for some people’s stones on a plate!
Fundamentals are killing the Braves. Bunting (not tonight but most nights) poor baserunning, getting picked off, running into outs, missing the cut off man, not covering bases (thanks Infante for saving the ninth)not being patient at the plate, swinging for the fences when a base hit will do, swinging at too many first pitches (Escobar) walking hitters, walking the pitcher.
I’m not one who believes that it all begins and ends with the players. If you have terrible personnel, you can’t win, thats a given. If you have decent personnel who are motivated, you can surprise folks. If you have good personnel who are motivated, you can contend. If you have GREAT personnel who are motivated, lookout world.
If you have decent or good personnel who aren’t motivated and who do not play fundamental baseball, there is no way you are going to field a consistent winner.
The Braves, because of their rotation, are either decent plus or good minus. Since they don’t have top to bottom strengths in their lineup, they MUST play fundamental baseball to even hope to contend. Right now, they aren’t contenders because they don’t do the little things that can win you quite a few games during the season. Too many mistakes. Too many opportunities by the wayside due to the inability to execute.
I fear the only way to change this team is to change the attitude of the players. For too long, mediocre performance has been accepted and greeted with a “tough luck, we’ll get ‘em tomorrow.”
Bobby isn’t effective. Bobby seems to sleep through games. Bobby could manage drunk because all he’s going to do is make a few pitching changes and hope someone hits a 6 run homer. Letting KJ hit away instead of bunting the tying run to second after the lead off single in the 6th was nothing less than malpractice! KJ is in a full blown slump. That was the time to let him put a bunt down and get the tying run in scoring position. But no. KJ hit into a DP. Do I blame KJ for doing that? In that circumstance, No! Bobby knows he’s slumping. It was up to Bobby to give the Braves a chance to get the tying run into scoring position and give KJ a chance to succeed. What? Was he asleep? Who DOESN”T make that decision with a struggling guy at the plate and the game on the line?
Bobby Cox, that’s who.
Ok….guess I did actually go after Cox’s stones.
cabravesfan
April 27th, 2009
11:19 pm
Dumbfounded-
Dude, his name is MONDESI…
Doc Holiday
April 27th, 2009
11:20 pm
I think the most important thing we have to understand is the fact that no matter how bad muts SP is and will be all year, or how bad phillies SP is and their BP woes or how thin the marlins bullpen is……………This is not the heart or nucleus of the situation………..We all have to understand that right now are worst enemy is within……..Our offense is our own enemy. It all starts in the leadoff spot……And this is not a KJ thing……….I mean……..Im OK with him, as far as he is hitting 6 or 7th, he will go below the mendoza line tomorrow and Cox will keep him leading off……….. I dont understand………Schafer in not suitable for leading off because he is young and not mentally strong enough to carry all that responsibility………but how about KJ………..he is also young……..and he is not doing very good at dealing with the pressure……….. give the guy a break………..stop overexposing him, let him relax and hit 6th.
Dumbfounded
April 27th, 2009
11:22 pm
Corrections !! It seems like Chipper cares !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Doc Holiday
April 27th, 2009
11:22 pm
Very interesting stuff RANDOM…….
Chop Chop
April 27th, 2009
11:24 pm
Here is my translation of Chipper’s comments:
“Kelly, Yunel, and Moylan? Eat it.”
Carroll Rogers
April 27th, 2009
11:26 pm
Couple more stats for ya: Four of the Braves 10 losses this year have been by one run (Oh no, not that again!)
David Ross has a hit in six of his seven starts. He’s also 3-for-5 throwing out baserunners.
Kotchman now has five multi-hit games this season, which is tied for tops on the team with Chipper and Francoeur.
The Braves have scored two runs or less eight times this season….And not surprisingly are 1-7 in those games.
And I, as some have apparently figured out, am 1-5 on the beat this year. I will happily take some serious time off if you guys would like!!
Nite all!
Dumbfounded
April 27th, 2009
11:32 pm
Thanks ! I told you forgive my spelling ! I’m ANGRY !!!
Dumbfounded
April 27th, 2009
11:37 pm
Don’t go Carroll ! What did Popeye have to say about his team tonight ?!! Never mine ! It would make me Angry !!!
scottbravesfan
April 27th, 2009
11:45 pm
The Braves have got to get some clutch hitting going on. Too many runners left on base.
Yunel's Frosted Tips
April 27th, 2009
11:46 pm
Guys, Kelly Johnson has the photos of Bobby with the goat this year, passed down thru the years from Keith Lockhart, Chris Woodward, Corky Miller, etc. so he’s gonna play regardless. Terry Pendleton has copies also so he is immune from criticism about this crappy offense we trot out there. No power, no situational hitting, no working the count, and who the hell is our baserunning coach, most boneheaded baserunning team I’ve seen since the Stevie Wonder/Ray Charles Traveling All-Stars.
Frank from KS
April 27th, 2009
11:47 pm
Carroll
If I might ask…….how long ya been at the AJC? Since 91 when the Braves started the run of division titles?
scottbravesfan
April 27th, 2009
11:50 pm
Bobby Cox won’t mess with the linup it’s Bobby Cox. The guy is as conservative as they came. The Braves would have to lose 20 games in a row before he would think something is wrong with the lineup. Kelly has to get out of the lead off spot and Yunel needs to learn to work a freaking count. The guy swings at the first pitch so many times it’s ridiculous. I was watching the Red Sox work the counts last night and was wishing the Braves could just do half of that they would have a much better offense. Because no one is going to be hitting three run home runs so they better be manufacturing runs as often as possible. Schafer needs to get on and they need to let him run see if he can steal some bases.
scottbravesfan
April 27th, 2009
11:52 pm
I also think it’s time to ax Pendleton. Get Don Baylor back that guy was awesome as hitting coach.
mets fan in atlanta
April 27th, 2009
11:56 pm
Random,
So you’re saying after all that, the only two starts that Kawakami has allowed 2 ER were against the Nationals???? What is your point? I thougth it was going to be a summarization that implied Kawakami had pitched pretty good this year, but his only two decent “quality” starts have been against the Nationals???? It will be a long season for him.
BTW, I took a break from the blog for a little while while the Braves were on that massive losing streak–i couldn’t kick you while you were down. Of course i wasn’t too happy when the Mets got swept by St Louis, but it looks like Manuel has lit a fire under the Mets starters here lately. Pelfrey went 5 2/3 innings with 2 ER, and Maine went 6 innings tonight with 0 ER. They are basically pitching for their job, and at least they are showing some pride. I don’t know still about Oliver Perez. I think it will come down to this weekend against the Phillies. If he doesn’t show something that game, i think they will send him to AAA (seriously). Word is, he’s not out of options, so he might have to do a Brett Myers.
TnBrian
April 28th, 2009
12:13 am
My lineup tomorrow would be:
Schafer… why not??
Prado… give Kelly some time to regroup
Jones
Francoeur…more of a cleanup guy than Kotch, to me anyways
Kotchman
Escobar
Ross
B.Jones…
Not Again
April 28th, 2009
12:16 am
If I recall correctly, a great mind once said Stephen
obviously wasn’t you
Daybed Wagmoe
April 28th, 2009
12:20 am
Chipper’s right, the Braves didn’t get him out 4 times in any of the 7 games the two teams played against each other last year. Hell, they only got him out 3 times in a game once.
Last time the Braves got Pujols out 4 times in a game was August 26, 2007, when he couldn’t get a hit off Smoltz.
P-Town Brave (Pleading for DRASTIC Change)
April 28th, 2009
12:23 am
Ouch…there goes Chipper, throwing guys under the bus again, which would be fine, but I don’t exactly see him tearing the cover off the ball, nor does it look like he even cares…
Maybe its just his personality type, but he gave away 2 AB’s tonight and was just real ho-hum about it on his way back to the dugout…
Not like Yunel or Martin or even Casey who throws his bat ocassionally when he gets frustrated over missing a pitch or a really bad AB…
No, I tend to group Chipper right in with Kelly…which reminds me…
Does anyone have the proper medication for Kelly’s bipolar bat?! Anyone…Bueller….Bueller?
Speaking of meds….maybe someone can give Bobby something that can either bring him back to reality and 2009 or at least knock him out long enough to find someone who knows where reality is located…
Hey don’t worry folks, there’s always tomorrow…Bobby will get it all fixed up for ya…Here’s your lineup for the Tues night game….trust Bobby, it’ll work:
Johnson
Escobar
Jones
Kotchman
Francoeur
Diaz
Ross
Schafer
Wait, that looks familiar you say…what the quote…
If it ain’t broke…no no, thats not it…
Oh yeah…I’m Bobby Cox, I will do whatever the h*ll I want! The only way they’ll replace me is if I die…and one last one…
I’m gonna ride this MF’er til the wheels fall off!
ATTN BOBBY: The wheels are on fire, the car is incinerated, and the wreckage looks almost as bad as Carl Edwards’ car did on Sunday.
That is all!
P-Town Brave (Pleading for DRASTIC Change)
April 28th, 2009
12:25 am
Carroll-
The only people around here that NEED to take some time off are Kelly Johnson, Kenshin Kawakami, Bobby Cox, Terry Pendleton, and Brian Snitker.
P-Town Brave (Pleading for DRASTIC Change)
April 28th, 2009
12:29 am
Not Really A Rant-
Classic stuff! And the most logical and BEST post of the night…
Can’t argue w/ any of it because it really speaks for itself…all true!
Once again, GREAT post!
Not Again
April 28th, 2009
12:30 am
I’m angry damn IT !! Dumbfounded
aw, I’m sorry to hear that. Maybe mommy will kiss it and make it all better.
Jake W.
April 28th, 2009
12:30 am
mets fan in atlanta
If you’re gonna point out Kawakami’s starts against the Nationals I think its only fair to point out that the last start by Pelfrey and those 2 ER were also against the Nationals. I guess its gonna be a long season for everybody then.
Coach (2010 or bust)
April 28th, 2009
12:33 am
Chipper Jones understands more about what’s wrong with this team than anybody. He was around when the Braves were the beast of the east. The Hall of Fame switch hitter has seen feast and now famine. It would be wise to listen.
Dumbfounded
April 28th, 2009
12:36 am
Ha ! Ha ! That was so funny I forgot to laugh !!!!
Chop Chop
April 28th, 2009
12:39 am
Coach,
It would be interesting if other guys on the team (like some of the fans) looked at Chipper’s comments and said, “What the hell does he know? He only has one ring.”
Coach (2010 or bust)
April 28th, 2009
12:41 am
Hey KC, care to draw anymore comparisons between this Braves team and the Yankees of the 90’s?
Not Again
April 28th, 2009
12:41 am
Ha ! Ha ! That was so funny I forgot to laugh !!!! Dumbfounded
you mean she didn’t? Wow she’s a toughie. Maybe your daddy will kiss it and make it all better if you ask real sweet? Surely somebody in your family cares about you? Maybe they are just as tired of hearing you whine as the board denizens are?
Not Again
April 28th, 2009
12:43 am
Once again, GREAT post! PTOWN
only if you’re an idiot
Dumbfounded
April 28th, 2009
12:46 am
Yes ! I’m her ! So talk that sh!t to me !!!
Jake W.
April 28th, 2009
12:46 am
On what Chipper said, I think he’s dead on. He’s not putting the blame on just Yunel and Kelly, when he says the top of the order is struggling I think he is including himself too. Jair Jurrjens did a great job with this lineup and he didn’t look to have his best stuff. Not to mention the staff as a whole kept Pujols in check. This team is shooting themselves in the foot more than they are helping themselves. You don’t walk the pitcher or the guy hitting right before Pujols for the fact. Molina is one of the best defensive catchers in the game so you might not want to wander to far off base. This offense isn’t even playing mediocre its playing horrible in so many facets of the game. Makes you wonder if we only did the little things right like good baserunning , good defense, and get them on, get them over, get them in. But we can’t do that. Teams like the Cardinals are good enough. They don’t need our help.
Coach (2010 or bust)
April 28th, 2009
12:48 am
Chop Chop, what’s even more interesting is since Chipper signed his new contract extension, Hoss knows he has the freedom to rip people. Chipper is the Braves version of E.F. Hutton, when the Hall of fame leader speaks, you better damn well listen.
mets fan in atlanta
April 28th, 2009
12:52 am
Um, good point, i suppose, but at least Maine did his against the Marlins tonight, but I am definitely encouraged by Pelfrey considering he’s 2-0 and not feeling pain anymore….
toothy leary
April 28th, 2009
12:54 am
the braves problem is they need more male bonding they need to go camping and construct a smoke lodge and form a drum circle and sing and learn to trust one another to embrace each other and to embrace and trust in their leader, the chief the medicine man the authority for he is the one true man among men
PWHjort
April 28th, 2009
12:55 am
I’m pretty sure Chipper’s baserunning comments are directed at Escobar and his not producing at the top of the line-up comments are directed at Kelly.
MariettaDerek
April 28th, 2009
12:57 am
That game was definitely NOT double pits to chesty.
Chop Chop
April 28th, 2009
12:58 am
I think we need another bench-clearing incident. Maybe having one of those every other day might fix the problems with this club.
toothy leary
April 28th, 2009
12:59 am
if i were kelly johnson what would i be a strange quark? an egyptian? an armadillo? a texas ranger? a stranger? a bear with scabby claws? bad hands? bad breath? distressed and bankrupt? living in the street? alone? nothing to look back on? no history? no gameplan? a mendoza imposter? running from the law? afraid? do don’t to me for help you swine i want you gone
Not Again
April 28th, 2009
1:00 am
Yes ! I’m her ! So talk that sh!t to me
you should be nicer to your child and coax him/her into feeling better after the big bad Braves hurt his/her puny little feelings and cause more teen angst.
toothy leary
April 28th, 2009
1:01 am
my lawyer advises me to watch what i say but in order to do that i have to first write it down and then i watch it i watch so that i don’t say something i regret like the braves are the worst team in baseball no i’m exaggerating they are only the fourth worst team in baseball there i said it now can they sue me
toothy leary
April 28th, 2009
1:03 am
chipper reminds me of chipper shredder and what happened to steve buscemi in fargo in the snow and marge gunderson got there too late to save him like the braves they have no one to get saves cause they can’t seem to get a lead
Dumbfounded
April 28th, 2009
1:04 am
What ever !
Saff
April 28th, 2009
1:06 am
Kelly Johnson is awful can someone tell me why Bobby continues to play him when clearly he can’t play defense and also hes batting 203 haha wow i bet if prado and infante play instead of that scrub we will start scoring more runs enough said.
toothy leary
April 28th, 2009
1:06 am
someone said yes i’m her and it’s true even if i say it cause on the internet i can be her or i can be someone named claude or i can be the president of mexico or i can be bizarro AIG which actually made a huge profit last year and decided to donate it all to a fund to buy hats for people who live in caves
Random
April 28th, 2009
1:07 am
Doc Holiday (11:22 pm): “Very interesting stuff”
Thanks.
Yeah, I was surprised that he was so damm consistent (aside from that fluky 5th inning Sunday).
mets fan in atlanta (11:56 pm): “So you’re saying after all that, the only two starts that Kawakami has allowed 2 ER were against the Nationals???? What is your point?”
I got no point to make with you.
“I thougth it was going to be a summarization that implied Kawakami had pitched pretty good this year”
You obviously did not read the comment, which is fine by me.
Dumbfounded
April 28th, 2009
1:09 am
You sure can be anyone on the internet !! Maybe some need to go to your KKK meetings !!!!!!!
toothy leary
April 28th, 2009
1:11 am
if bobby cox lineup card were exposed to massive doses of radiation it would morph into a giant grocery listcalling for six foot long stalks of celery 1000 loaves of sourdough biscuits a lamb hunk the size of new jersey and all the coffee in arkansas
Chop Chop
April 28th, 2009
1:12 am
I try not to read those particular comments of yours, Random. I just try to skim past the personal crusades because there are plenty of targets here. It’s too much like shooting fish in a barrel made of fish that is filled with fish that, much like Russian nesting dolls, have increasingly smaller fish inside of them.
toothy leary
April 28th, 2009
1:14 am
fish inside fish are those fish made of molecules that are actually tiny fish all existing in a teardrop and this universe is actually a giant fish swimming in a larger ocean but that ocean is just drop of liquid in a cell of another larger fish i don’t know if einstein liked fish
toothy leary
April 28th, 2009
1:18 am
manny being manny or manny being many if so manny needs help or maybe many being manny if so good for them but in the end who gets paid
toothy leary
April 28th, 2009
1:19 am
a bull a steer a cow a commie two of these things are extinct
Random
April 28th, 2009
1:57 am
Chop Chop (1:12 am): “I try not to read those particular comments of yours. I just try to skim past the personal crusades because there are plenty of targets here.”
(shrug) Your loss.
If you had read it, you’d'a seen it was no “personal crusade”, merely an attempted analysis of Kawakami’s performance his first, second and third times thru the opponents’ line-ups.
No big.
(I usually pseudonymize the personal stuff.)
P-Town Brave (Pleading for DRASTIC Change)
April 28th, 2009
2:10 am
Toothy Leary-
At the end of the day, I’m pretty certain both Manny and Scott Boras are being paid handomsely…AND the fans are filling the park in LA and buying up the 99 shirts…
Makes you think that Manny would be a good investment for ANY team…I mean did you see the stands tonight? Then again, I’m not sure I would want to be in the park either given we&