Braves face Mets, but not Johan
Welcome to Atlanta, the new rain-delay capital of the National League, where we’d be ecstatic to get one series in without significant rain delay.
The good news is that with the New York Mets in town, the Braves might actually benefit from rain. Not rain here, but rain in Philly, where the Mets were rained out yesterday, which led to them changing their rotation.
Instead of facing Livan Hernandez and ace Johan Santana in this two-game set (I don’t like calling a two-gamer a “series”), the Braves get to face John Maine and Livan. Santana’s pushed back a day.
Then again, the last time the Braves got help from the rain in avoidance of an ace — Houston’s Roy Oswalt left after pitching just one inning before an extended delay on Saturday — it didn’t work out so well for the Braves.
So we’ll see how they take advantage of this opportunity.
Loading ...But anyway, tonight they get Maine (1-2, 5.40 ERA), provided we get a game in. The daily threat of rain isn’t as great tonight as it has been most home games lately, only about 30 percent last I checked, so cross fingers and all that.
Maine is 2-3 with a 5.17 ERA in six starts against the Braves, including 1-2 in three starts last season when he gave up 19 hits, 10 runs and nine walks in 13 innings against the Braves, lasting only four innings in two of those starts.
Not Johan or Livan
Then there’s Livan on Tuesday. Ohh, Livo. Braves have had, as you’re probably aware, almost inexplicable success against the portly right-hander through the years, beating him up in the regular season frequently after he went 3-0 against them in three games (two starts) as a Marlin in the postseason at the beginning of his career.
Hernandez is 1-12 with a 6.50 ERA in his past 18 starts against the Braves since May 20, 2001. Against everyone else in that span, he’s 100-85 with a 4.27 ERA.
On the other hand, Hernandez will face Kenshin Kawakami tomorrow, and the Braves’ Japanese import is 0-3 with an 8.04 ERA in his past three starts.
♣ Chipper’s situation: He isn’t getting many pitches to hit without a big threat behind him, and Chipper Jones’ recent results are showing it.
Jones is 3-for-17 with, nine walks, no extra-base hits and no RBI in his past six games.
And get this: Jones doesn’t have an extra-base hit at Turner Field this season. That’s right. No extra-base hits at home.
He is 7-for-33 (.212) with seven singles, three RBI and 11 walks in 10 home games, with a .409 OBP and a .212 slugging percentage.
He probably couldn’t have picked a better time to face the team he’s thrived against so often over the years, and a couple of pitchers he’s handled. Jones is 5-for-9 with a homer against Maine, and 22-for-57 (.386) with 15 RBI and 11 walks (.465 OBP) against Livan.
One other odd stat: Jones has just one homer and three strikeouts in 57 at-bats against Livan.
♣ Schafer’s strikeouts: There are some here on the ol’ Braves/MBI blog who don’t seem to think that rookie center fielder Jordan Schafer’s strikeouts are worth mentioning, that we should only talk about his excellent .400 OBP (and it is excellent, let’s be clear).
So you might want to skip the rest of this note, because we’re going to say something about his strikeouts. Go ahead, skip ahead…. You gone now? OK, here we go: Schafer leads the National League with 30 strikeouts in 77 at-bats.
That includes 21 strikeouts in 47 at-bats against right-handers, though e also has 13 walks and 12 hits (.255 avg., .417 OBP) against righties.
The problem with strikeouts is, of course, that there are certain situations where it’s important to put the ball in play.
With nobody on base, Schafer has been outstanding. He’s hit .357 (15-for-42) with four doubles, a homer, 10 walks, 14 strikeouts, a .481 OBP and .524 slugging. That’s a stellar 1.005 OPS for the rook.
But with runners on base, he has hit .143 (5-for-35) with eight walks and 16 strikeouts, a .302 OBP and .286 slugging percentage. That’s 16 strikeouts in 35 at-bats with runners on.
And with runners in scoring position, he’s 2-for-18 with six walks and eight strikeouts.
As Chipper pointed out after Schafer’s second consecutive three-strikeout game Sunday, “Guys up here, they’re not stupid. They know how to scout hitters, and they have found his hole. His hole is just above the hands, middle up, and he’s having a hard time catching up to it. Until he shortens up and puts the ball in play more consistently, he’s going to continue to struggle.”
Yrrr out
In two-strike counts, Schafer is 6-for-48 (.125) with 30 strikeouts.
Just to reiterate, we think Schafer’s got tremendous talent, and he’s going to be a solid player for a long time. But anyone who thinks that a guy with 30 strikeouts in 77 at-bats should be leading off or batting second, as those who insist here that Schafer should be … well, I don’t know what else to tell you.
By the way, for whatever reason, probably just a small sample size this early, Schafer has hit .212 in nine day games, with 18 strikeouts and four walks in 33 at-bats.
Oh, one other thing: Schafer’s giving Cody Johnson a run for the organizational strikeout lead. Big Cody (and he’s huge) has 35 strikeouts in 85 at-bats at High-A Myrtle Beach, where he’s hitting .247 with a whopping nine homers – nearly half of the team’s total fo 21 homers.
Johnson has a .333 OBP (11 walks) and .624 slugging percentage.
♣ Not cleaning up: How badly do the Braves need Brian McCann (or even Garret Anderson) to come off the DL and reenergize the cleanup spot? Well, ask Chipper. Or just consider these stats.
McCann had seven RBI and five extra-base hits in 40 cleanup at-bats, even though he hit only .200 before he went on the DL with his vision problem. Anderson went 3-for-5 with three doubles and an RBI in the cleanup spot.
But four others have combined for 42 at-bats in the cleanup spot for the Braves, and they have a total of five extra-base hits and five RBI. And Jeff Francoeur has four of those five RBI (he’s 3-for-8 with a homer at cleanup).
Casey Kotchman has 31 cleanup at-bats and no RBI.
They just posted today’s lineup, and Kotchman’s batting cleanup and Kelly Johnson leading off. Brandon Jones is in left field hitting seventh, Schafer hitting eighth.
Did I mention that Kelly is 14-for-64 (.219) with a .296 OBP in the leadoff role? Of course, if Infante’s not in the lineup, then there aren’t a whole lot of other options, since Bobby Cox obviously doesn’t want to bat Yunel Escobar in the leadoff spot this season, for whatever reason (probably because of the rest of the lineup’s composition; he feels he needs him in the 2-hole).
Infante is 13-for-29 (.448) with a .515 OBP in the leadoff role.
♣ OK, we’re outta time. Running late today after clearing fallen limbs from my hard this morning and attending the Braves’ 400 Fan Club luncheon. So we’ll just close with a tune and head down to the clubhouse.
Billy Joe Shaver had to cancel his Wednesday show at Eddie’s Attic. Something about him being in a movie or something out in California. Don’t know if I’ve used these lyrics, from Waylon Jennings‘ seminal album Honky Tonk Heroes, but they’re worth using again if I have. And here’s a great video of Shaver telling a colorful (to say the least) story of life on the road with Waylon.
“BLACK ROSE” by Billy Joe Shaver
Way down in Virginia
Amongst the tall grown sugar canes
Lived a simple man and a dominiker hen
And a rose of a different name.
Well, the first time I felt lightning
I was standing in the drizzling rain
With a trembling hand and a bottle of gin
And a rose of a different name.
Well, the devil made me do it the first time
The second time I done it on my own
Lord, put a handle on a simple headed man
And help me leave that black rose alone.
When the devil made that woman
Lord, she threw the pattern away
She was built for speed with the tools you need
To make a new fool every day.
Way down deep and dirty
On the darker side of shame
I caught a cane cuttin’ man with a bottle of gin
With a rose of a different name.
The devil made me do it the first time
The second time I done it on my own
Lord, put a handle on a simple headed man
Help me leave that black rose alone.
The devil made me do it the first time
The second time I done it on my own
Lord, put a handle on a simple headed man
Help me leave that black rose alone.
1,613 comments Add your comment
McFann Ô
May 4th, 2009
3:43 pm
First?
McFann Ô
May 4th, 2009
3:44 pm
Oh yeah…totally…
Thanks for the new Blog, Chief!
LuisG
May 4th, 2009
3:45 pm
4th?
dogsbrekky
May 4th, 2009
3:48 pm
Billy Joe Shaver (almost put Schafer) – now that dude rocks, can he bat clean up for us ?
SCHAFER – Dobi One Knobi – maybe we should bat the kid at NOS 1, where he will get a LOT OF BATS where he just needs to get on (cut down on the Ks and work those walks), the his swing will improve in those inside cutter situations… currently he is getting pounded mid-high/IN which exploits his weakness (with a pitcher behind him he has to be more aggressive than he otherwise would be, yes/no ?)…
Anyway, if he has a 400 OBP at years end and an 800 OPS we will be very very happy, even if there is 180 Ks in between
mbatl
May 4th, 2009
3:48 pm
Still don’t like Chipper running thru Schafer’s weakness to the press. I have NO doubt that the opposition would figure it out, but just unseemly to give away the scouting report on your own players to the press. (no problem with the press reporting it, btw, just with Chipper saying it).
Darlington
May 4th, 2009
3:49 pm
Could be Chipper’s way of saying that change is necessary and trying to make it happen, but I see your point…
Piedmont Blues (formerly BravesFan InRockies)
May 4th, 2009
3:50 pm
“With nobody on base, Schafer has been outstanding. He’s hit .357 (15-for-42) with four doubles, a homer, 10 walks, 14 strikeouts, a .481 OBP and .524 slugging. That’s a stellar 1.005 OPS for the rook.”
So why shouldn’the be leading off? At least he’ll have one plate appearance a game where he’ll get to show his stuff.
flange1
May 4th, 2009
3:51 pm
mbatl,
I agree, why air dirty laundry in the press? Chipper is getting good at that!!
Macon Braves (RIP)
May 4th, 2009
3:53 pm
A double play machine in the 2 hole and a “clean up hitter” with no RBI’s in the clean up spot. Oh brother…….
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
3:54 pm
KJ Leading off, Kotchman Clean-up, Schafer hitting 8th…EQUALS A loss
WTF is Bobby Thinking…?
I don’t know about most on here but I’d give B. Jones a shot at leading off. If it works good move if not he can’t be worse that what we’ve been doing…
Then again KJ Leading off against the mets might be a good thing. As I recall KJ has hit the mets well throughout the coarse of his career…
The Mets will Pitch around Chipper all series, “Bank on it!” Someone needs to step up
No X-tra base hits for “Hoss” at home…That doesn’t suprise me Teams are not gonna give him much to hit with B-Macc and GA out…
Until we get a homer threat or a hot hitter in the #4 slot (When B-Macc isn’t playing) every team we face will have the addage of not giving the chance to let Chipper beat them…
DAP
May 4th, 2009
3:55 pm
it would make me very happy to absolutley destroy maine tonight, knock him out of the game in 3 innings and deepen the mets’ fans depression about thier miserable rotation….(lets do it tomorrow, too)
i still hate the mets worst.
Macon Braves (RIP)
May 4th, 2009
3:55 pm
Maybe they should swap DP Machine and Krotchman in the lineup, at least then we’d have a real “clean up” guy in the 4 hole (according to MFin04’s #2 definition of a clean up hitter)
dogsbrekky
May 4th, 2009
3:55 pm
Chipper may be voicing some tough love that Bobby is trying in private to get through to the kid……. give Kotchie a break, he will be okay by year’s end
Macon Braves (RIP)
May 4th, 2009
3:56 pm
DAP– I hate the Mutts the worst also. Only time I am forced to root for the Phillies is when they play the Mutts. Just like Boston and Yanks in the AL, I root for Boston only when they play the Yanks.
Tomahawk210
May 4th, 2009
3:57 pm
Yeah it’s all Schafer’s fault this team can’t hit and has no desire or care to win. Oh well we lost again, who cares we’ve been doing it for a few years now the fans should be used to it. Maybe instead of calling people out some of these guys should look in the mirror and call themselves out. Didn’t Chipper’s error Saturday lead to 3 runs?
mets09WSchamps
May 4th, 2009
3:59 pm
We are going to spank your miserable team. Can’t beat the Astros and you think you’re gonna beat the Mets. Yeah, good luck with that. Your team will make Hernandez and Maine look like CY Young winners! It will be a slaughter for the Braves.
Willy Wally
May 4th, 2009
4:00 pm
Still don’t like Chipper running thru Schafer’s weakness to the press. I have NO doubt that the opposition would figure it out, but just unseemly to give away the scouting report on your own players to the press. (no problem with the press reporting it, btw, just with Chipper saying it). (MBATL)
Yeah, getting really tired of Chipper running his mouth. I also didn’t appreciate him crying about being charged with an error the other day. Yeah, he took the blame for blowing the game with one error, but to then go bellyaching and forcing scoring changes because you get charged with another error in a game you blew, even if an arguably underserved error, is just all kinds of selfish and stupid statistical yuck to me. It’s like Oswald saying yeah, yeah, yeah, I did Kennedy, but Officer Tippit?, how dare you charge that one to me, or OJ going yeah I did Nicole, but Goldman?, you’ve got some nerve pinning Goldman on me.
weso1
May 4th, 2009
4:00 pm
Actually for a guy with a high OBP and lots of K’s I would think the leadoff position would be perfect. At leadoff you really don’t need to drive runners in or move runners over most of the time. The goal for the leadoff guy is to get on base. And Schafer is doing that very well. Plus he could steal 2nd before Escobar has a chance to hit into the inevitable double play.
The 8th spot in the order is the worst place to bat Schafer, imo. With the pitcher hitting behind him you aren’t able to take advantage of his dynamic speed and aggressiveness. Instead Schafer has to be conservative, especially with 2 outs. For an anemic offense it doesn’t make sense to not take advantage of Schafer’s speed.
McFann Ô
May 4th, 2009
4:02 pm
Macon Braves Only time I am forced to root for the Phillies is when they play the Mutts.
I’m sorta the opposite…can’t stand to see the Fillies win no matter who they play. I despise the Fillies with every fiber of my baseball-being!
But I don’t like to see the Mets win, either–so when they play each other I couldn’t care less. Course, if one is way ahead of us and the other is way behind us, then I might choose sides…
Andy K.
May 4th, 2009
4:03 pm
Tomahawk210 Chipper did call himself out on those errors. But clearly you didn’t read the previous blogs. He manned-up and said his play was completely un-acceptable, and disgusting…do some HW before you start bashing.
rich brave
May 4th, 2009
4:03 pm
How about some thoughts on the upcoming draft. I for one am looking forward to seeing the picks in person in DANVILLE later in the year. We have the seventh and a comp sandwich between the first and second rounds NO? So what should we go for? Have to assume the practically major league ready lefty phenom is gone. Do we go for the best available righty? Or the next superstar third baseman? How about another catcher or second baseman? Outfielder anyone?
brad
May 4th, 2009
4:05 pm
jordan is getting those walks because there is a pitcher behind him usually. if he batted in a different slot, he wouldn’t walk as much.
Aja
May 4th, 2009
4:05 pm
This team under any line-up scenario you come with for 9 players is not a team that is going to make the playoffs or contend. KJ will hit for a week and then stink for 2 weeks and he plays ‘hold your breath’ defense. Kotchman at cleanup slot? More like the custodian spot. Where’s the power going to magically come from? Surely, not from the traditional power positions of LF/CF/RF or 1B. The only thing this team can do is bring in some outside help. No mix or match of the current 13 positions players is going to get it done.
Wayne in Utah
May 4th, 2009
4:06 pm
Doc
Are you forgetting the number of games we have played without McCann and GAnderson? Let’s get a full compliment of players, then let them play for a couple of weeks, and then evaluate our offense.
You know, everbody was throwing the bullpen under the bus after the second week. Now, as somebody stated earlier, their are on a streak where they have averaged around 2 ER per 9 innings.
Like I stated last night, the season is full of wild swings, both good and bad.
StingerSplash
May 4th, 2009
4:06 pm
I think Chipper’s already gone to Schafer to say, “Look, kid, they found the hole in your swing, so you better figure something out or they’re going to keep throwing it there” before he said anything about it to DOB or anyone else in the press.
Willy Wally
May 4th, 2009
4:06 pm
Actually for a guy with a high OBP and lots of K’s I would think the leadoff position would be perfect. At leadoff you really don’t need to drive runners in or move runners over most of the time. The goal for the leadoff guy is to get on base. And Schafer is doing that very well. The 8th spot in the order is the worst place to bat Schafer, imo. (WESO1)
You of course are making a very common mistake of ignoring that his OBP and walk totals are terribly inflated beyond his actual on base skill level because he bats 8th and is enough of a threat with the bat at 8th that they’ll just nibble and let him get on base and force the pitcher batting ninth to make the final out
Andy K.
May 4th, 2009
4:06 pm
BradMaybe in part, but Schafer is primarily getting walks due to a good eye, not to mention he really works the count, and gets into 7-8 even 9+ pitch ABs…
Joe Fan
May 4th, 2009
4:07 pm
G. Anderson is not the answer. He seems to be a liability in the outfield, combined with what appears to be a poor attitude, maybe he just misses Cailfornia and that equals a bad investment. A healthy McCann will improve the offense no doubt. However, the Braves need more than McCann to get the offense jelling on all cylinders. Hopefully the answer will be found without trading away valuable pieces for a one year rent a player. Possibly the solution lies in the minors with Heyward and/or Freeman. They ceratinly can’t strike out any more than Schafer.
lexbrave
May 4th, 2009
4:08 pm
boy it should be nice to play well over the next 10 games, seeing as how they are all against the mets, fish and phillies.
mbatl
May 4th, 2009
4:09 pm
OT, relative to the previous blog discussion… pretty good “sabre-type” comment from Pirates’ GM Neal Huntington, saying that he expects the Pirates’ top-ranked pitching to drop off because they’ve been lucky to have an unrealistically low BABIP. Just for those interested.
Tomahawk210
May 4th, 2009
4:09 pm
Andy K.
Take it easy, don’t take out your anger on me bro. I know we are all mad about how this team is playing but taking it out on me isn’t going to help them. I was making a point that instead of calling out teamates how about looking in the mirror and start to lead by example? Chipper is getting paid big money not to talk but to play great baseball we all know he can and then if his teamates see that they might follow. If they read and hear him bashing them that sure as h e l l won’t help anything with this team. It’s simple Andy K. -TIME TO SHUT UP AND SHOW UP!
Wayne in Utah
May 4th, 2009
4:10 pm
Aja
Might I suggest that help will come from Brian McCann, and maybe even Garret Anderson?
Did ya ever think we might be a tad bit better with those guys at full strength.
Heck no, lets run out and trade for someone.
DOB
When’s the last time you have seen an impact player dealt in May? I can’t remember one in recent history? But then again, my memory sucks too!
Supes
May 4th, 2009
4:10 pm
I can’t imagine the reasoning Bobby Cox uses when he makes out the lineup card.
Kelly lead off again? Hasn’t it been proven that he hits better 6th or 7th in the order. I believe DOB gave us the numbers a while ago, Kelly hitting 7th, he puts up considerably better numbers.
Yunel needs to be taken out of that number 2 slot. Hits way too many ground balls to SS and 2B and he’s earning the nickname 6-4-3…which Jeff had last year.
DOB…The Chipper Jones “struggles” are the result of the overall lineup not hitting and missing B-Mac. Joe Simpson made the comment during the Cards series last week that they probably had their team meeting before the series, saw the “scary” Braves lineup and said…Chipper Jones is not going to beat us in a close game. Pitch around him. That they did and they won the series. I expect all teams (smart ones) to take that approach until the rest of the lineup wakes up and starts hitting and producing.
Casey Kotchman is not a cleanup hitter. The audio still resonades from a game against the “mighty” Washington Nats (where the Braves showed what futility at the dish looks like), from a drunken fan laughing at a “clean up hitter” with no HR and 4 RBI at the time (of that game). The no HR thing remains, and Casey has yet to hit an RBI from that slot. Again, more of Bobby’s genious of how not to construct a lineup.
Not sure if moving Schafer every other day is good or bad. I tend to lean on bad. A rookie player needs stability in a lineup. All of this moving around (after a bad game strike out wise) can’t help Schafer’s confidence. Yes, the strikeouts are alarming, but they are necessary growing pains. I believe the more he plays, he’ll get better and start putting the ball in play more, he’ll learn how to lay off certain pitches, but that comes with experience. Jordan doesn’t have it. It is what it is:)
I think if there is a team that brings out the “best” in the Braves, it’s the Mets. Let’s hope they get win the next 2 games and start playing good fundamental ball once again.
Tomorrow’s game will be huge. Kawakami needs to show something. Need a quality start out of him 6 innings at least, no more than 3 runs. Let’s see if he can step up. He got paid, now it’s time to start delivering. Learning “month” is over. It’s May. Team needs him to produce and not get smacked around by the long ball.
Bill M.
May 4th, 2009
4:11 pm
DOB– thanks for the song by Billy Joe Shaver. He’s one of my all time favorites.
BossLady
May 4th, 2009
4:11 pm
50-50 poll results, how can that be?
LuisG
May 4th, 2009
4:12 pm
If Bobby’s going to keep Prado and Infante out of the lineup on a regular basis, then I think Escobar should hit leadoff. He’s a .317 career hitter in that spot and a .378 OBP (.286 and .358 OBP batting 2nd). This should cut down his GIDP totals. Kotchman would hit next (not behind Chipper, for God’s sake!!!!!) and Francoeur 4th, until McCann comes back.
Let KJ bat 6th, Ross 7th and Schafer 8th (so Chipper’s exposing the rookie’s weakness? I don’t like it, tohugh, but that sends a message to other teams that the Braves are aware of this and Schafer’s working on it to try to get more quality at-bats in those situations).
I think our No. 9 hitters should get some better work done bunting the runners over. How many sacrifice hits out of the pitchers do we have so far?
David-ATL14
May 4th, 2009
4:12 pm
Solid tune DOB by a true wordsmith.
Interesting non baseball note Season 2 of Sons of Anarchy will now have Adam Arkin gumming up the works along with Henry Rollins, both coming from the neo-nazi angle.
Should be interesting to watch unfold. Highly reccomend to anyone that like quality ttv abd the blogmaster wil attest.
On to baseball, time for a nice 15 game streak of solid baseball yielding 10+ Wins.
Anders
May 4th, 2009
4:13 pm
This certainly doesn’t sound like a very confident blog today. Perhaps you can all rally around slinging arrows at me to get your blood flowing. I mean forget that the Mets are saving Santana for the big games later this week but they also won’t throw Ollie at the Braves. What more can they do to equalize this match up?
MFin04
May 4th, 2009
4:13 pm
This team really should still be winning some of these games without McCann and Anderson. I also don’t understand why you don’t play Infante and/or Prado…when they have contributed to our winsand runs lately.
braves wild card
May 4th, 2009
4:14 pm
the braves never going to hita ton of home runs.. we all know that. at least with brain Mc and garret anderson we will have (hopefully ) a few more hits per game. we been getting 7, 8, 11 hits per game, and we if hit a 3 run shot is great, but with 1 or 2 more singles per game in the clutch, with our pitching should be good enough.
Andy K.
May 4th, 2009
4:14 pm
Tomahawk210No one was bashing Schafer. Chipper was just talking about how he’s having a hard time adjusting, all rookies do. He was just saying that as vets they need to aid Schafer in the process…but from what I can tell he definitely wasn’t bashing….
Willy Wally
May 4th, 2009
4:15 pm
BradMaybe in part, but Schafer is primarily getting walks due to a good eye, not to mention he really works the count, and gets into 7-8 even 9+ pitch ABs… (ANDY K)
11 of his walks have come in 35 PAs with 2 outs. He only has 7 walks in his other 60 PAs. That’s still a good walk rate, but is more representative of his actual on base skill level than walking like crazy and overly infalting his OBP because there are two out, and an out making machine coming up next to make the final out.
TnBrian
May 4th, 2009
4:17 pm
Mets09WC, oh boy, you’re making us sweat! You’ll be gone like a fart in the wind when the series is over!
pinkygonzales
May 4th, 2009
4:17 pm
i wonder what kind of hitter could be acquired with a package of jo-jo, who has shown signs in the last couple of starts and really no future in the organization with since we have kawakami, lowe, jurrjens, vazquez and hanson (not to mention an option on hudson), gorkys hernandez and matty diaz? We need a thumper. Preferably a young, right-handed one. I still say Ludwick for the cardinals is the best bet, being that they are crowded in the outfield (diaz would be a bench player for them). Hell, I’d even throw in KJ, and they could throw in a reliever. But we need a bat. We’re one bat short right now.
Macon Braves (RIP)
May 4th, 2009
4:17 pm
Anders–What’s the word in Mutt land on your big Free Agent pitcher signing (resigning to be completely accurate) now being moved to the bullpen? Or are you buying the “my knee’s been bothering me” bull that the front office has tried putting out.
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
4:18 pm
They just posted today’s lineup, and Kotchman’s batting cleanup and Kelly Johnson leading off.
UGH. WTF. I’m not even going to watch. Maybe.
Flushing 9 First Pitch: Mets/Braves @ 7:10 p.m. | Flushing9.com
May 4th, 2009
4:18 pm
[...] Dave O’Brien of the Atlanta-Journal Constitution writes, “(Chipper Jones) is 3-for-17 with, nine walks, no extra-base hits and no RBI in his past six games. And get this: Jones doesn’t have an extra-base hit at Turner Field this season.” [...]
mbatl
May 4th, 2009
4:19 pm
I never said Chipper was bashing. Just that he’s talking too much about things that need to be addressed internally. Absolutely no reason to talk to the press about the holes in Schafer’s swing.
If Chipper was having a problem chasing sliders below the knees, early in the count (which it seems to me he is), would he appreciate Bobby Cox coming out and saying to the press, “Geez, Chipper’s a great hitter but he’s just got this huge hole in his swing when they throw him early sliders down.”
I don’t think so.
dogsbrekky
May 4th, 2009
4:19 pm
Joe – Garrett has been injured and yet we hit him as a pinchie several times when it was clear he could barely walk properly…….. yet the man has a long term track record of hitting consistently for average and okay power………… give him a break for a few months and hopefully he will play at close to 100% health and then he can show what he is made of
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
4:19 pm
Running late today after clearing fallen limbs from my hard
Heh.
Jack
May 4th, 2009
4:20 pm
I think the poll today did not ask an important question. It asks “could the Braves win the NL east if the bullpen were better”, should have asked “could the Braves will the NL east if they were to start hitting”. Our offense is awful, at the very least.
jtb
May 4th, 2009
4:20 pm
Does anyone find it strange that the Rangers have been using Andruw Jones as a DH, Lf and at first instead of letting him play center? Especially when their everyday center fielder is Marlon Byrd.
Choppinmama
May 4th, 2009
4:20 pm
From the last blog –
McFann: I’m going to the HOF luncheon, reserved a ticket as soon as I heard about the Maddux induction and sure would like to go to the game that night too. I always run into the problem that it’s too far to go back to Woodstock after the lunch, then drive back to Turner F for the game, it’s too hot to hang around the field for 3 or 4 hours before they open the gates, plus if I leave to go anywhere, I’d lose the free parking spot in the green lot! I guess there’s always the Bullpen. But, I’ll let you know and we can meet at the Spahn statue if you go to the game. I have some Braves loot to pass along, not to mention a couple of darling photos of 4-Eyes from spring training. They’re not digital, or I’d have already sent them to you. Long live Doggie.
Hey, DOB: maybe I could come and hang in the press box, do some proofreading, ghost writing or go-fering to pass those idle hours? It IS air conditioned up there after all. Did I ever tell you I sat in your very seat to gain your perspective on one of my many tours of TF? At least you can still see the whites of the player’s eyes from that vantage point. Aren’t some of the other boxes in other parks in the upper atmosphere?
Anders
May 4th, 2009
4:20 pm
Macon- The word is Perez might be facing Kawakami in a AAA game by this time next week.
dogsbrekky
May 4th, 2009
4:21 pm
Hello Anders – dude you need to read the NY papers……….. Ollie sucks and is a goner and Maine is a girl and on and on
plus did you hear that AROD didnt pay more than 20% TO SOME bint from Hooters…
seriously the Wilpons are biatches and are getting that bad karma for the appalling way they treated Willie…….. no way you make post season in ‘09
PS Wright aint doing so well under the media glare either
weso1
May 4th, 2009
4:22 pm
You of course are making a very common mistake of ignoring that his OBP and walk totals are terribly inflated beyond his actual on base skill level because he bats 8th and is enough of a threat with the bat at 8th that they’ll just nibble and let him get on base and force the pitcher batting ninth to make the final out. (Willy Wally).
I assume you are just wanting to be argumentative because I absolutely didn’t make that mistake whatsoever, and I’m not sure how you inferred that I made that mistake. Nowhere in my post did I mention anything about the validity of Schafer’s .400 OBP. Although I would point out that his isoOBP is higher when he’s hit 7th compared to when he’s hit in the 8th spot. So while Schafer may not put up a .400 OBP in the leadoff spot I think it’s still safe to say that he’s a pretty patient hitter… especially in our lineup.
Aja
May 4th, 2009
4:23 pm
Wayne in Utah
I hope when those guys reurn to full strength they will prove to be the right mix, but I have my doubts, and it is certainly not with McCann. I just don’t see how any combination of the starting 8 that we ideally would like to run out there (McCann & Garret), can get the job done. Granted I think we have run that ideal lineup out there only 3 times, but it is a light-hitting, no speed, poor base running bunch of players.
Seriously we might hit less HR’s in the OF this year than we did last year…and less HR’s at 1B with Tex gone. And with less SB’s than last year potentially.
Those are positions you gotta get power from, and if you don’t, pick it up somewhere else…and we don’t have that somewhere except for C with McCann – and he’s out.
Our staff is tremendous IMO but not good enough to keep us in it every night. I just feel some new blood is essential and hopefully imminent.
Wes
May 4th, 2009
4:24 pm
sure is a good thing the Braves didn’t want to take a risk with Ibanez………
Anders
May 4th, 2009
4:24 pm
dogsbrekky – sometimes you post like an adult and then other times like some of the 15 year olds on here. What gives with that? You 4:21 is embarassing.
Tommy
May 4th, 2009
4:26 pm
Some of you would be better off remaining quiet unless you know the entire story. Chipper does not blast teammates in the press. You don’t know what goes on in the clubhouse and you don’t know what he may have said to the youngster already. If he’s given suggestions and has been blown off or ignored, who knows? It IS a major problem not just for him but the entire team. Their fundamentals are terrible, they cannot move runners along, and no one gives Chipper protection so he can see a decent pitch. Other managers are not stupid either, and they are not going to let Chipper beat them when there is no one behind him.
Eware
May 4th, 2009
4:26 pm
Great song, DOB. It’s definitely my favorite Waylon album too. So many good songs on there. I love when the pedal steel guitar comes in on “Honky Tonk Heroes.”
Macon Braves (RIP)
May 4th, 2009
4:27 pm
Anders–I don’t think there’s room for Kawakami at Gwinnett, that rotation is too strong for him to crack it.(Not a fan of KK, obviously) Wouldn’t mind seeing Gwinnett go against Perez though, they need to face a sucky pitcher to pick up there offensive production down there.
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
4:29 pm
Maybe instead of calling people out some of these guys should look in the mirror and call themselves out. Didn’t Chipper’s error Saturday lead to 3 runs?
I guess you missed where Chipper called himself out for losing that game because of his error.
DOB and Carroll, for the love of humanity please never ever ever ask Chipper about Schafer’s strikeouts or Yunel’s temper or anything else about any other player ever again. Obviously the man can’t say anything without someone taking offense. Just get the standard reply of “Yeah well he struck out 30 times in 70 chances but he’s young, and Jamie Moyer is a helluva pitcher, he might win the Cy Young this year. we’ll get ‘em tomorrow” from Bobby and move on.
P-Town Brave(Time to Find a New Staff)
May 4th, 2009
4:31 pm
Wow, Bobby just continues to amaze me…
Then again, expecting him to have a decent lineup where the team can be put in a position to succeed and win, well, that would be asking for way too much from him.
Yes, lets complain about Schafer’s lineup and then take a rag, throw gas on it, and light it on fire by putting Kelly Johnson back into the leadoff spot…
It didn’t work in 07, it didn’t in 08, it hasn’t so far this year, and it won’t for the rest of it…
Only idiot Bobby doesn’t realize that Kelly is MUCH better down in the order!
We’ll see the same old thing tonight as usual…
The only light at the end of the tunnel is the one with the pink slip inside each and every one of the coaching staff’s lockers, minus McDowell and Perez…
Oh, and Bobby…you can take that fancy nameplate on your desk and shove it right up your —!
Greg
May 4th, 2009
4:31 pm
Please tell me infante is leading off and KJ is riding the pine. Please tell me that.
P-Town Brave(Time to Find a New Staff)
May 4th, 2009
4:32 pm
And whats with Chipper blasting everyone in the media these days?
Why don’t you do what a normal superstar would do in these situations…shut up, play hard, and lead by example…
You’re not exactly doing a bang up job in that category Larry Jones Jr.
Jersey Gil
May 4th, 2009
4:32 pm
DOB…:lol: Who is the Young Lady Pic?…
PWHjort
May 4th, 2009
4:35 pm
Probably a good decision by the Mets to push Santana back. I’d rather pit Santana vs. the Phillies (Chan Ho Park is scheduled to start that game but I hear they may shuffle their rotation) than the Braves and Kenshin Kawakami. Livan Hernandez probably has a better chance to beat the Braves than the Phillies. I mean, he sucks, but there’s really no evidence that Kenshin doesn’t suck.
dogsbrekky
May 4th, 2009
4:35 pm
Oh Anders lighten up mate, did we hit a raw nerve regarding the pissants that own your franchise (and before you run off about the Wilpons, remember I run in circles that do business with that scum)
The Mets are perenial losers because they have no style, they have no gumption, they have no verve and they have no knowledge of winning….
until that changes from the top – down, they will frustrate the hell out of the queens mob !
Choppinmama
May 4th, 2009
4:36 pm
If the Ray’s Carl Crawford can steal……..6…………bases in one game, you’d think we could manage one every 3rd game or so. And, yes, I know, you have to GET on base before you can steal one….and have healthy quads, groins, toes, calves and be able to see the next base! OK, nevermind…….
dogsbrekky
May 4th, 2009
4:36 pm
even perennial
McFann Ô
May 4th, 2009
4:37 pm
Choppinmama–
Sounds good! I’ll let ya know if we decide to go (hopefully we will…how often do you get to see guys get their number retired?).
not to mention a couple of darling photos of 4-Eyes from spring training.
Hmm…well, to heck with them retiring the number, that sounds way better!
Wes
May 4th, 2009
4:37 pm
I wish Infante was the every day at 2B. I’ve like him since he was a Tiger. He’s pretty much the only guy on that entire roster that you can call a “gamer.” He’s there to bust his ass and do what he has to, to help the team win. Everyone else, including Chipper, play like they have a tee time after the game they want to make sure they don’t miss.
Braves team motto: “Let’s see how quick we can get our asses out of here today.”
Ron Roberts
May 4th, 2009
4:38 pm
For what it’s worth, having Garrett Anderson struggle late in spring training w/his quad/hammy isues should’ve been clue enough not to trade off Josh Anderson to the Tigers. Boy do we miss him! Imagine if he were leading off ahead of Yunel, Chipper and Francoeur. I’m not saying having him would make our lineup a “Murderer’s Row, but it sure would give us options, like playing Infante instead of KJ (since he’s struggling) and pushing Schafer further down the order til he gets his RISP woes solved.
We don’t “miss” Brian McCann’s bat, right now, really. If anything, Dave Ross has been a GODSEND for us; we’re struggling like we are (and I hate to PUT it on one guy like this but…) because Kelly Johnson is just KILLING us at the leadoff spot.
I say all this while, in the back of my mind, I think “when has Bobby Cox actually TRIED small-ball/base-running, etc., to spark a struggling offense, anyhow? This rough string is starting to remind me of that rough patch we went through three seasons ago after the All-Star break.
I was thrilled to see us snag Garrett Anderson, but he’s GOT to come back healthy and stay off the DL or we’re doomed to be mediocre, again, which sucks, because I think we have the pitching to go all the way.
Lowe’s been as-advertised, JJ and JoJo have done well, Kawakami will benefit from warmer weather, and Vasquez has been pretty darn good, too. Plus, our bullpen (yesterday notwithstanding) has come together. But geez, our offense has to put up more than 3 runs-per-game, on average.
McFann Ô
May 4th, 2009
4:38 pm
Crawford stole…6 in one ga–oh my. Do we play the Rays this year…?
McFann Ô
May 4th, 2009
4:39 pm
Ron Roberts We don’t “miss” Brian McCann’s bat, right now, really.
Speak for yourself!!
Choppinmama
May 4th, 2009
4:39 pm
I do remember BMac feeling his way to a free base a week or so back though. (:-) that’s for you, McFann!)
Kentavo
May 4th, 2009
4:40 pm
I think we’re going to have to wait ’til the trade deadline for a bat unless FW pulls someone off the the scrap heap ala Julio a few years ago.
PWHjort
May 4th, 2009
4:40 pm
Aaron Gleeman of circling the bases, rotoworld, aarongleeman.com, etc.. does an article for circling the bases on Kyle Blanks, the Padres’ stud 1B prospect. Apparently he’s taking fly balls with the AAA team and the Padres are looking at moving him to left field in order to accommodate both Blanks and Adrian Gonzalez on the MLB team. If this happens, that’d certainly put a damper on my hopes that Wren would trade for Adrian Gonzalez. Here’s the article: http://bases.newsvine.com/_news/2009/05/04/2774497-the-next-big-thing-kyle-blanks?category=sports
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
4:41 pm
Gil, it’s Tina Fey. One of DOB’s many celeb crushes.
When is MadDog’s jersey retirement thing? If it’s on a week night I’m mad.
Tomahawk210
May 4th, 2009
4:41 pm
Maybe instead of calling people out some of these guys should look in the mirror and call themselves out. Didn’t Chipper’s error Saturday lead to 3 runs?
I guess you missed where Chipper called himself out for losing that game because of his error.
I’m pretty sure Schafer knows that he’s striking out too much and what pitch he keeps swinging at to do that. How about going out and playing hard and showing that you care and playing with some emotion and heart and putting it all out on the field. This team lacks heart. No one cares.
Eware
May 4th, 2009
4:41 pm
You know your offense is bad when…
…the Nationals have scored more runs than you: (102 to 98)
Up yours Mellencamp, that hurts not so good.
Anders
May 4th, 2009
4:42 pm
Oh Anders lighten up mate, did we hit a raw nerve regarding the pissants that own your franchise (and before you run off about the Wilpons, remember I run in circles that do business with that scum)
The Mets are perenial losers because they have no style, they have no gumption, they have no verve and they have no knowledge of winning…. (dogsbrekky)
So you run in circles of losers with no gumption, no verve and no knowledge of winning? How does this help your argument again?
Wes
May 4th, 2009
4:42 pm
Ron Roberts- how can you say “The Bullpen has come together.” ???
Moylan and Soriano BOTH gave up runs late in close games BOTH to the Cards and Astros.
Good to see the Astros lighting up our pitching staff. That vaunted offense juggarnaut they are…..
Macon Braves (RIP)
May 4th, 2009
4:42 pm
I was just about to warn Ron Roberts he was gonna catch it from our local lady for that not missing McCann comment, but she got there before I could…
Despite Ross filling in well, I’m with you McFann, I’m missing Heap too.
beekay
May 4th, 2009
4:43 pm
DOB and Onion fans: not sure if this has been posted been out for a few days
http://www.theonion.com/content/news/nation_dumbfounded_as_to_why?utm_source=facebook_1
AGTFan
May 4th, 2009
4:45 pm
@ANDERS – I’m sure that there are a lot of 15 year olds who were offended by your comment.
Choppinmama
May 4th, 2009
4:46 pm
McFann: I thought that would pique your interest!! They’re supposed to have a nice ceremony on the field for Maddux too.
dogsbrekky
May 4th, 2009
4:46 pm
McFann – I watch the RAYS every time I get the chance, they are so much fun….. they just let it all hang out…. swiping bases, crushing home runs…… effing up like kids should, but they do ‘ave a go
Anders
May 4th, 2009
4:48 pm
Hey, the Mets have their own Schafer to deal with. Check out David Wrights SO’s. 27 this season in 88 AB’s. He hasn’t clicked at all this season.
monty
May 4th, 2009
4:48 pm
I’m curious to know how wearing glasses will affect McCann considering how much he sweats around his head and eyes. I’ve never had to wear glasses playing sports so I would like to hear some opinions from those of you who have. I seem to remember may games in the past where Brian when he would bat would almost every other pitch have to wipe his brow because of sweat running down. Will glasses fog up? Will he constantly have to defog them?
dogsbrekky
May 4th, 2009
4:48 pm
Anders 1 – dogs 0
You win,
They (Jeffy boy and co) are great people who just happen to own a ball club that cannot and will not win their way to the post-season, or is that really us ?
Wayne in Utah
May 4th, 2009
4:49 pm
Aja
I hear what your saying. I just don’t see us making any deals. I think we are stuck with what we have until at least mid June.
We need Mac back in the lineup, period. He is the ONLY player in our lineup (Frenchy is a possibility) that can give Chipper some protection.
With our current fiscal restraints, I see the Braves doing some tweeking, but primarily waiting for Heyward to arrive. Not sure at this point though, if he will be enough, with Chipper in an eventual decline.
Anders
May 4th, 2009
4:49 pm
AGTfan- I can live with that.
Anders
May 4th, 2009
4:50 pm
dogsbrekky – That is the fastest I have ever seen anyone sober up. How did you do that?
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
4:51 pm
Maddux retirement gig is on July 17th…a Friday vs the Mets.
josh
May 4th, 2009
4:51 pm
What is the deal with glavine? I haven’t heard anything for 2 weeks now. Did I miss something?
David from NY
May 4th, 2009
4:52 pm
DOB,
Can we get the lineups for both teams if they are up which I think they are. Thanks
monty
May 4th, 2009
4:52 pm
I’d be willing to bet that Wright homers against us tonight and possibly tomorrow too. Some guys really seem to hit us well and he is one of them. I seem to remember Howard of Philly stuggling last year or the year before until the Braves came to town and we got him going.
dogsbrekky
May 4th, 2009
4:52 pm
Anders – I am going to the May 11th game at “Shea Goodbye to Hollywood II” Stadium, if you are around. I am buying a ticket in the RF area at the cut in…
will the braves win another series?!?!
May 4th, 2009
4:52 pm
Well the braves have only 2 games with the mets…. maybe the braves can win this series
N8
May 4th, 2009
4:53 pm
jtb
I don’ think that it’s strange at all. Scouts kept mentioning last year, how Andruw’s first step (which was his biggest asset, IMO) was pretty much gone, and he was a shell of himself in CF.
Something MANY Braves fans (including myself) mentioned in his last season with the Braves, but most wanted to live in denial. He’s just getting older. Not much he can do about it. Oh yeah, that’s right, athletes are in charge of of how “in shape” they are. Never mind.
I consider the Rangers smart, for not putting him in a position to fail. They (and he) will be better because of it.
If he were a Brave right now, he’d be batting cleanup everyday and playing CF. Thus getting “exposed” at the plate and in the field.
Don’t let a player’s great past accomplishments, mask what they are TODAY. Andruw is a DH/4th OF at best. Kudos to the Rangers for realizing it and using him that way.
keylargo
May 4th, 2009
4:53 pm
BC should put Chipper in at lead off instead of continuing to try to force the issue with KJ leading off. They are walking Chipper regularly but with him leading off, at the least he would get pitched to. Plus getting KJ down in the order so he could return to being productive.
I’m not saying to do this except for a few games until BMac and Garret Anderson are back in the lineup to hit 4 and 5.
dogsbrekky
May 4th, 2009
4:53 pm
Anders – I stopped taking cancer meds 3 hours ago, even they wear off
now for some good California Cabernet
ncscoots
May 4th, 2009
4:54 pm
Crawford stole…6 in one ga–oh my. Do we play the Rays this year…?
And scored twice. As in, “two”. As in, the SBs had no impact on the scoring.
I watch the RAYS every time I get the chance, they are so much fun
As in, the Rays have a worse record than the team the many here so love to bash.
Does that mean that, if the Braves would only steal more bases, the whiners here would not moan so much about their W-L record, because the team would be “fun”?
Moderate Maniac
May 4th, 2009
4:56 pm
DOB
Your blog post says it all about Shafer. Thank you for pointing out the reality of having Shafer in the lineup. He’s a rookie. He has lots of pressure on him because he’s in a lineup of guys who are struggling to get runs across. When that happens, it puts more pressure on the rookie to produce. If Schafer was sitting in the Red Sox lineup or some other team that has multiple contributors to run production, he would probably be performing better. The result of having Shafer in the lineup will be to the Braves advantage in the future. He may be a liability this year though.
How quickly Shafer adjusts to the “hole” in his swing will ultimately play a huge role in how the Braves offense performs this year. We have to hope that Shafer is in fact the “quick study” that some say he is. It’s really hard to have expectations of Shafer to adjust his swing and/or approach to hitting when you have so many veterans on the team who can’t seem to do it.
Anyway, appreciate the post on Schafer. People need to realize that one can have the ability to recognize the warts on the frog and comment on them without being what some folks here love to refer to “haters.”
Jersey Gil
May 4th, 2009
4:56 pm
Run Heap Run …hey. DOB also has a crounch one time with Gloria Estefan, Miami Sound Machine, when he was the beat writer of the Fish.
Supes
May 4th, 2009
4:56 pm
Get off Chipper’s back. He’s earned the right to speak his mind. He’s the face of the franchise (sorry B-Mac, not yet).
People criticizing him are probably the same ones who have been asking for someone to step up and be a vocal leader in the clubhouse.
We do not know what goes on behind the doors of the Braves Clubhouse. Chipper is one of the smartest guys in baseball. I’m sure he’s got his reasons for saying what he said (publically to the AJC).
Anders, good one about Perez vs Kawakami. Seems like both teams missed on those 2 guys (at least up to this point, giving them 3 year contracts). At least the Mets can afford to “eat” Perez’s contract. Not sure what the Braves would do if Kenshin continues to struggle. I guess trading him to Seattle for a bag of balls and bats would be doable, lots of asians up there:)
njbraves
May 4th, 2009
4:56 pm
Can people please stop acting like Infante and Prado are Mays and Aaron. Unreal. I like both guys, but come on already.
Jeff R
May 4th, 2009
4:56 pm
Infante has the hot hand, but he’s riding the pines today, in favor of Kelly Johnson. I say, go with the hot hand.
Reyes seems to have these one inning breakdowns that spoil what would otherwise be nicely pitched games. Gotta be concentration. He eases up lwhen he should be bearing down.
STRETCH
May 4th, 2009
4:57 pm
Kotchman Clean-up, Schafer hits 8th while Anderson is lighting it up in Detroit. Crawford steals 6 bases, where’s Otis Nixon?!!
This team aint going nowhere, no time soon or the future as long as Cox is still in the dugout. Another 4th place finish folks. Boy, i miss the golden years!
But even with all the talent they had since 1991, they only have one ring? I was watching MLB network the other day and they ran that 1996 series with the Yankees and to this day i wonder what happened after being up 2-0 and losing that series. Then in the 99 series, they had the 2 best pitchers go back to back, but left Cox left them in the game too long and they eventually got swept.
We all know that Liberty Media doesnt care and the front office is clueless since JS left. Now add those two facts with that one common denominator of all those past post-season failures…Bobby Cox.
2005 NL Division Series Houston Astros Lost, 1-3
2004 NL Division Series Houston Astros Lost, 2-3
2003 NL Division Series Chicago Cubs Lost, 2-3
2002 NL Division Series San Francisco Giants Lost, 2-3
2001 NL Championship Series Arizona Diamondbacks Lost, 1-4
NL Division Series Houston Astros Won, 3-0
2000 NL Division Series St. Louis Cardinals Lost, 0-3
1999 World Series New York Yankees Lost, 0-4
NL Championship Series New York Mets Won, 4-2
NL Division Series Houston Astros Won, 3-1
1998 NL Championship Series San Diego Padres Lost, 2-4
NL Division Series Chicago Cubs Won, 3-0
1997 NL Championship Series Florida Marlins Lost, 2-4
NL Division Series Houston Astros Won, 3-0
1996 World Series New York Yankees Lost, 2-4
NL Championship Series St. Louis Cardinals Won, 4-3
NL Divison Series Los Angeles Dodgers Won, 3-0
1995 World Series Cleveland Indians Won, 4-2
NL Championship Series Cincinnati Reds Won, 4-0
NL Division Series Colorado Rockies Won, 3-1
1993 NL Championship Series Philadelphia Phillies Lost, 2-4
1992 World Series Toronto Blue Jays Lost, 2-4
NL Championship Series Pittsburgh Pirates Won, 4-3
1991 World Series Minnesota Twins Lost, 3-4
NL Championship Series Pittsburgh Pirates Won, 4-3
1982 NL Championship Series St. Louis Cardinals Lost, 0-3
But let Cox tell it all, like he did about the pitching yesterday…everythings fine.
cphizzle
May 4th, 2009
4:57 pm
3-8 with 4rbis dont sound like to bad of production from the cleanup spot if you ask me maybe chipper needs to put his big boy drawers on and start hitting the ball like he is supposed rather than run his mouth about people not producing…sorry but he dont get a free pass with me
will the braves win another series?!?!
May 4th, 2009
4:57 pm
I see we have the wanna be coaches in here again,lol…
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
4:57 pm
Thanks bravos2249.
Knuckle Sandwich
May 4th, 2009
4:58 pm
Fox announcers generally suck…but one of them brought up an interesting point about Schafer on Saturday. He is swinging and missing at a lot of strikes, not whiffing at bad balls (Frenchy, Diaz). This is evident by his high number of walks. Maybe he needs to bring that $90,000 batting machine up north for a little extra BP.
RC
May 4th, 2009
4:59 pm
njbraves,
Mays and Aaron couldn’t play 2b and SS.
Woogidy
May 4th, 2009
4:59 pm
The Braves are hurting right now. When you go into a season and put that much stock into a Catcher, as the Braves did, you’re asking for this situation. Obviously, some guys haven’t performed as hopep, but, for the most part, it’s been the fact that Mccann is hurt, and was since the first game. GA is hurt as well. Let’s wait until this team plays a couple of weeks at full strength, then reevaluate it. I am not happy with where the Braves are, but it’s not like the whole division has ran off and left. They’re all still right there. If at the end of May, the Braves are 2.5 games out, I’ll still be ok with it, but only if they’re playing better. Let’s face it, the Mets or Phillies are gonna take off soon, and the Braves are gonna have to step it up and chase them to the top if they want to stay in this race. The pitchers can’t do much more than they have. So, put the plastic cover back on the panic button, and wait it out a bit.
keylargo -the new Braves coach
May 4th, 2009
4:59 pm
My vote is for Keylargo… make a great coach
dogsbrekky
May 4th, 2009
4:59 pm
ncscoots – watching the Rays, whether they suck or not, or whether they do the “statistically correct thing” has nothing to do with whether one supports them or not…… they just happen to crack me up
Chuck James was Solid until the 6th!!!
May 4th, 2009
5:00 pm
Casey Kotchman will hit HR #1 this evening. Bet on it.
Jeff R
May 4th, 2009
5:00 pm
Infante and Prado aren’t Mays or Aaron – but neither is Kelly Johnson. A streaky hitter with an adequate, at best, glove. Much overrated by the Braves’ brass.
Anders
May 4th, 2009
5:01 pm
Supes – good 4:56. Especially paragraph 3. Hey, when Chipper says something like that there’s a reason. Not only wouldn’t he do that to one of his teammates off the cuff but especially a rookie. Not sure why he did it , but I wouldn’t question that he did.
As for Perez, I don’t think the Mets are anywhere near eating his contract. He’s always had these types of issues. However, never this early and prolonged so it bears watching. As for Kawakami – not having pitched here before he was much more of a risk. I’d be really nervous that he’s not MLB starting material. Time will tell on both deals.
McFann Ô
May 4th, 2009
5:03 pm
Choppinmama–
Wouldn’t ya know it? We were in the car when he–ahem–”felt his way to a free base”.
They’re supposed to have a nice ceremony on the field for Maddux too.
Oh well, yeah, I’d wanna see that thingy, too, of course…
dogsbrekky–
Yeah…really wish they coulda won the WS…
Macon Braves–
Oh yeah–even if he is batting only .195, when he’s out for more than one game, ya start to miss ‘im…
So the chorus of this song, with a few minor changes, fits perfectly. Ironically, it’s by a group called BBMak (only song of theirs I know, though):
So I keep on waiting till [you're] back where [you] belong
So here I am all by myself
Thinking of you nobody else
There is a feeling inside, and as hard as I try
It just won’t go away
[Yeah, I'm] finding it hard it all on [my] own
Having to face each night alone
Knowing you are the one with the [big bat we] need
And I miss you more each day
Chuck James was Solid until the 6th!!!
May 4th, 2009
5:03 pm
IMO for the first time ever I will say this, Chipper has no right saying anything right now when all he is good for is walks, singles and costly errors, those things do not win games. Look in the mirror before you get on other people publicly. I love Chipper but that needed to be said.
RC
May 4th, 2009
5:04 pm
Stretch,
You’d consider having a 12-14 record in playoff series a failure? Realizing that Cox didn’t start managing the team once it made the playoffs, but the 162 games leading up to them also?
dogsbrekky
May 4th, 2009
5:05 pm
Kawakami will be okay once our 2nd baseman stops dropping double play gifts forcing said Japanese pitcher to cough up gut shot HRs [TIC]
The DUMP KELLY JOHNSON ASSOCIATION
May 4th, 2009
5:07 pm
We are strong and growing. We are many in number.
For the good of the Braves, DUMP KELLY JOHNSON.
Go to DUMPKELLYJOHNSON.org for more details.
njbraves
May 4th, 2009
5:08 pm
Chuck James…are you serious? What do you want Chipper to do? Swing at anything and try to hit homers? The comments on here are so dumb it’s scary. They have played 24 games…relax. They’re 2 1/2 games out of first. unreal how dumb some of you are.
bakerman
May 4th, 2009
5:08 pm
Once more, we will never win anything with Kelly Johnson at 2nd base. Good defense starts up the middle. Move him back to left and consider this experiment the failure that it is!!! Come on Bobby!!
David from NY
May 4th, 2009
5:10 pm
here is the Mets lineup:
Reyes, ss
Murphy, lf
Beltran, cf
Delgado, 1b
Wright, 3b
Church, rf
Castro, c
Castillo, 2b
Maine, rhp
do we have one for the Braves?
Kelly Johnson is a Parkway in California
May 4th, 2009
5:10 pm
Motorcyclist Killed On Kelly Johnson Parkway
Written by Carol Rock
Thursday, 25 September 2008
Fatal is eighth in Santa Clarita in 2008.
A Canyon Country man died Thursday morning when his motorcycle hit a dump truck near the Rye Canyon Loop.
Today’s incident is the eighth motorcycle-related fatality in Santa Clarita in 2008.
Juan Zavala, 24, was riding his 2004 Yamaha motorcycle northbound on Kelly Johnson Parkway at 8:05 a.m. when a dump truck and trailer driven by Misak Vardanyan, 55, of Van Nuys, pulled out of a driveway. Zavala was unable to stop, hit the side of the truck and was run over.
Det. Robert Smoldt of the Santa Clarita Sheriff’s traffic bureau said that Vardanyan was not cited and the investigation into the accident is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call Smoldt at 799-5111.
STOP Kelly Johnson...
May 4th, 2009
5:12 pm
…before he claims more lives.
Anders
May 4th, 2009
5:12 pm
Wait until you guys see the new guy the Mets have at second base. Batting .368 with an OBA of .438 – mostly in the 8 hole! Where does Omar find these guys?
PWHjort
May 4th, 2009
5:15 pm
Aaron Crow makes his independent league debut today: http://www.baseballamerica.com/blog/draft/?p=783
RC
May 4th, 2009
5:16 pm
AJC Blog monitors,
Can someone take of the comments about a traffic accident in California and the commenter who wrote “STOP Kelly Johnson” at 5:12 pm. That is really offensive that someone is making jokes about a 24-year old being killed on a motorcycle.
Steve from OH
May 4th, 2009
5:16 pm
Surely you jest, Anders. If Omar loves to find guys with career .724 OPSes (and call them great after a month of a .412 BABIP), then I love him as GM of the Mets!
Anders dear sweet mom
May 4th, 2009
5:16 pm
Anders will you be watching baseball all day on mothers day, in your basement apartment? I was kind of hoping you would take me out to dinner. Nothing too fancy. Maybe some pancakes at Dennys.
dogsbrekky
May 4th, 2009
5:17 pm
Anders – turn on SNY – they hate the Mutts and are suggesting they trade JOSIE Reyes……… oh the intelligence of the NYC borough folks !
Jason in Atl
May 4th, 2009
5:17 pm
DOB – thanks for the fresh blog. A musical diversion for you… The Gaslight Anthem and The Heartless Bast*rds are in town at the Masquerade tomorrow night. Two very good bands. Are you a fan of either?
beekay
May 4th, 2009
5:17 pm
When does Deunte Heath get some love….28 innings 26k 1.29 ERA. We got some arms down on the farm. Locke almost throws a no-no at Myrtle, Morton and Hanson doing there thing in richmond. Lets trade a JOJO and a prospect like Gorkys(Schafer and Heyward are blocking him) for a big bat!
gotigers72
May 4th, 2009
5:18 pm
Hindsight is 20/20, but wouldn’t it have been nice if the Braves would’ve kept Josh Anderson [.326 BA, 6 of 7 in stolen bases] and plopped him in left field? Instead of feeling that they had to pursue someone outside of the organization when the Griffey, Jr. deal fell through? Now you have a disgruntled 36 year old that is not hitting his weight, fields about like the little guy you put in the outfield on your little league team and hope nobody hits the ball to him. Can’t run a lick and when he does he injures something. If it were me, I’d want to check out how I do against live bullets and impress my manager by showing him that I’m a team player.
Is it too late to get rid of crotchety ol’ grandpa? Maybe to the AL as a DH? For some batting gloves and a few used baseballs? Throw Brandon in there and see how he does. I personally think Brandon is not any better than a 4th outfielder on this level, but give him one more chance, then try a trade or somebody else from the minors. Although it doesn’t appear that they have much in the pantry as far as position players until you get to Myrtle Beach. I’ve been keeping up with Gorkys, who has a decent average, but is striking out way too much. Sound familiar? Matty D is not hitting too well either. Tell him to eat a few cheeseburgers and try to gain that weight back.
Anyway, should have kept Josh A. but didn’t. Something needs to be done about LF ASAP. Who wants someone with the attitude that Geezer Anderson has?
DWW
May 4th, 2009
5:19 pm
STRETCH
JS did not leave, he is the president of baseball operations. I get so tired of people saying he left; and you are crazy if you dont think he still has an opinion on every decision they make.
Anders
May 4th, 2009
5:19 pm
Steve from Oh – Absolutely I jest.
Cox must go
May 4th, 2009
5:21 pm
“Is it too late to get rid of crotchety ol’ grandpa?”
No, it’s not too late. Cox must go!
Bleacher Bumgo
May 4th, 2009
5:22 pm
“…and you are crazy if you dont think he still has an opinion on every decision they make.”
Me too. I also have an opinion on every decision they make. Not that it matters much.
Anders
May 4th, 2009
5:24 pm
dogsbrekky – I’m not for trading Reyes, but I will say that of all the guys on the team he worries me most. Something has changed in his game. He doesn’t run nearly as much. He seems to waste a lot of at bats (he’s not maturing as a hitter). I just don’t see him in the Jimmy Rollins type category right now which seemed like a lock a couple of years ago. Maybe it’s because it’s early and cold but he really needs to get going. He’s not playing bad – just mediocre.
BTW- Don’t YOU live in a NYC borough?
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
5:24 pm
DAVID
Jonhson 2B
Escobar SS
Chipper 3B
Kotchman 1B
Francoeur RF
Ross/B. Jones C/LF
Ross/ B. Jones C/LF
Schafer CF
Vazquez RHP
DWW
May 4th, 2009
5:26 pm
Bleacher Bumgo
You dont think he has influence on the decision they make?
dogsbrekky
May 4th, 2009
5:26 pm
Anders – have you watched Jimmy-roll in the post steroids era
It is not pretty anymore
Josie is a puss but he can play
Anders
May 4th, 2009
5:27 pm
dogsbrekky – hadn’t thought about that with Rollins. Interesting. Hope not. He’s something to watch.
PWHjort
May 4th, 2009
5:28 pm
RC,
If you want to report a comment, there’s a link to do that. Otherwise, don’t be so sensitive.
cleaning lady
May 4th, 2009
5:28 pm
Time to clean house.
Cox, MacDowell, Pendleton – GONE.
Kawakami, Garret Anderson – GONE GONE!
Jo Jo Reyes – GONE GONE GONE.
Kelly Johnson, Chipper Dipper, Kotchman, Diaz, Norton – all GONE!
Most of all: Frank Wren – can’t be gone fast enough!
WE NEED CHANGES PEOPLE.
Anders
May 4th, 2009
5:30 pm
Anyway, got some schtuff to do before the old ballgame. Hope to get back on later – enjoy the game.
I’m figuring 35,000 to 40,000 for the hated Mets – right?
dogsbrekky
May 4th, 2009
5:31 pm
cleaning biatch – and that is why you are a cleaning lady…… you were away when god gave out the brains
Bleacher Bumgo
May 4th, 2009
5:31 pm
“Bleacher Bumgo
You dont think he has influence on the decision they make?”
Maybe a little. Certainly not as much as he used to. He’s delegated authority to Frank Wren and mostly gives high-level advice.
David from NY
May 4th, 2009
5:32 pm
Ya bravos,
I got that, just curious about the Jones and Ross thing.
Atlanta Braves 2009 Market Slogan...
May 4th, 2009
5:33 pm
…a crapfest for the ages!
David O'Brien
May 4th, 2009
5:34 pm
Glavine threw a side session in bullpen today, said he felt good and was encouraged. Believes he’ll pitch again this season, and thinks he could be ready to pitch about five innings in a minor league game in a couple of weeks.
David from NY
May 4th, 2009
5:35 pm
Here it is:
Jonhson 2B
Escobar SS
Chipper 3B
Kotchman 1B
Francoeur RF
B. Jones LF
Ross C
Schafer CF
Vazquez RHP
John
May 4th, 2009
5:35 pm
What all the talk on this blog about leadoff, cleanup, reyes etc really shows is that Frank Wren failed completely this off season. Why are we talking about patching these obvious holes? Pitching and bullpen too. Fire Frank Wren(and Liberty Media too).
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
5:35 pm
David.
Ross might hit 8th. Bobby’s has put him there because he’s more experienced than the other guys, though Ross has actually been hitting the ball and deserves to hit higher. He hasn’t been hitting it lately, but that could be due to the new little one he had to go be with for a day. Being gone for that one day could have thrown him off, or what not. If all is well with McCann he should be back on Friday and he’ll be with us in NY next week.
3k's = schafer
May 4th, 2009
5:36 pm
i think schafer in 7hole is better for the team
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
5:36 pm
lol I meant 7th
I'm not the decider, I'm the explainer
May 4th, 2009
5:36 pm
“…just curious about the Jones and Ross thing.”
Bobby is trying something new tonight he will have Ross and Brandon Jones bat SIMULTANEOUSLY. They will stand in opposite batter’s boxes. Cox is betting that they will achieve good plate coverage.
BabyGoatEater
May 4th, 2009
5:39 pm
DOB,
I know you hate that some of us want Shafer hitting in the leadoff (well, dont hate, because you could prob care less what we think) spot, but who else should it be? Obviously, hitting leadoff is taking something away from Kelly. He is not comfortable there. Bobby, for whatever reason, isn’t ready to play infante everyday, so, who else? I would also like to see what the stats actually are for Braves leadoff hitters this year. I am only guessing, but I would think it has to be way, way, way worse than Shafers line, even with the strikeouts. Anyone got those stats?
Piedmont Blues (formerly BravesFan InRockies)
May 4th, 2009
5:39 pm
I say all this while, in the back of my mind, I think “when has Bobby Cox actually TRIED small-ball/base-running, etc., to spark a struggling offense, anyhow? This rough string is starting to remind me of that rough patch we went through three seasons ago after the All-Star break.Ron Roberts
Bobby’s teams used to run a lot — when there was speed on the roster. There just hasn’t been much of it in the past few years. In 2000, six Braves had at least 10 steals with none more than 40 (Furcal), and swiped 148 as team. They were also caught 56 times, so the low percentage of success probably didn’t help the team.
They’ve stolen more than 80 bases as a team only a couple times since then, and considering who’s been on the team, it should be no surprise.
From his first stint in the ’70s as manager, Bobby’s always liked to use the running game when he had the guys to do it (remember when Otis Nixon, Deion Sanders was around in the early ’90s). To his credit, he doesn’t force the issue when his players don’t have the speed or the baserunning skills to make a running game sensible. (And it can be, when you have the guys to do it.)
cleaning lady
May 4th, 2009
5:40 pm
I’m not cleaning up any dog’s brekky. Don’t feed your dog month old chili and he won’t do brekky all over the floor.
gotigers72
May 4th, 2009
5:41 pm
Hey STRETCH – You could save yourself a lot of time by pulling for the Kansas City Royals. Looking up their postseason scores since 1991would take exactly ZERO seconds. Time saved there. Plus you would save time by not having to watch or pull for them from about September 1st on. Wouldn’t have to waste time complaining about their manager. What would you do with all of that extra time you would have?
Seriously Bubba, all of that stuff is in the past. The fact that they won only one World Series out of 14 playoff appearances has been BEAT TO DEATH! Even though they are 1 for 14, I, personally would have rather been a Braves fan during that run than just about any other team, especially the Royals and other teams that have not even MADE the playoffs. How many WS have the beloved Cubbies won over that period. How many teams have had years during that time period when they were absolutely putrid? Almost all of them. Not my Braves though. They were in the hunt for FOURTEEN YEARS IN A ROW! Yeah, I’ll take that.
tvsportscaster
May 4th, 2009
5:41 pm
If you want to know why the Braves have struggled look no further than lineup construction. Casey Kotchman is a joke in the cleanup spot, he’s a good hitter, but he is no threat at all behind Chipper, regardless of the righty/lefty crap that Bobby puts way too much stock in, Francoeur should be hitting cleanup. And yes I know he has a lot of strikeouts but Schafer should be leading off. One game is not a fair assessment of how he can do in that spot. At least if he leads off and gets on base, Schafer can use his speed more, which he can’t do at all hitting 8th, but again Bobby apparently could care less about speed. And finally obviously someone can’t read Kelly’s statistics in the lead off spot, he needs to be lower in the order. So until there is better lineup construction this team will continue to struggle.
Piedmont Blues (formerly BravesFan InRockies)
May 4th, 2009
5:41 pm
And that may have been some of the worst grammar I’ve ever posted while sober. Apologies.
Lineup repair team
May 4th, 2009
5:42 pm
Kotchman should lead off. He’s hitting ok and he’s slow but on the other hand he can’t drive in any runs.
buzzmeat
May 4th, 2009
5:45 pm
if hes slow why would he leadoff?
Coach Coach anyone
May 4th, 2009
5:45 pm
dang cleaning lady…. maybe the Braves should just go away….
nuevo bravo
May 4th, 2009
5:45 pm
why is chipper jones still on this team? dude is ancient. hurt all the time. no power anymore. does cox want a competitive team or a museum exhibit.
McFann Ô
May 4th, 2009
5:46 pm
DOB–
Any word on when McCann will start his rehab and how many days he’ll be with Gwinnett?
Thanks!
Tomas
May 4th, 2009
5:46 pm
DOB, good article. You should change the poll answers though to, Yes but they need another bat.
What I don’t get is why Kotchman is batting cleanup. What’s wrong with Franceour batting cleanup? Frenchy is locked in, and has been very good in the clutch all year long unlike Kotchman who only has 4 RBI’s.
To be fair with Kelly Johnson, you have to admit the guy has had some serious bad luck. He seems to always hit rockets, but unfortunately directly at people. I think he is just pulling the ball too much. If you look it up, you’ll find out the majority of his hits and outs are to the right side of the infield and right field.
Brian McCann does that as well. They’re pull hitters, and first basemen better be on their toes against them.
I think their is a logic to think Schafer strikes out too much to be a leadoff hitter. But as you said, this kid gets on base a lot WHEN THE BASES ARE EMPTY. My point is, when you’re batting leadoff the bases will be empty at least 50% of the time(that’s why you don’t see leadoff hitters with 100 RBI seasons too often).
Schafer with the bases empty has a 352AVG, 10BB, 14SO’s, 1HR, and 4 doubles in 42 AT BATS. Thats a 481OBP, and 524 SLG %. And his speed at the top of the order would be a big difference in the stolen base department. That’s my reason’s to think Bobby should bat him cleanup.
AJC SUCKS
May 4th, 2009
5:47 pm
I think the AJC muct go….
AJC SUCKS
May 4th, 2009
5:47 pm
must even
CharlieAlphaBravo
May 4th, 2009
5:48 pm
I’m curious to know how wearing glasses will affect McCann considering how much he sweats around his head and eyes.monty
Uhhh…. I’ve also considered this, but then I realized I have no way to determine how much Mac “sweats around his head and eyes.” What is this magical sweat detection device that you have discovered?? I must have it!
gonzo
May 4th, 2009
5:50 pm
The sweat literally pours out of McCanns eyeballs. You could irrigate a cornfield with all that moisture.
Lew
May 4th, 2009
5:50 pm
Yeah-Let’s just throw in the towel and consider the Braves doomed for the season. We’re already 2 1/2 games out of the division lead, have the best pitching in the NL East and there’s only 138 games left. It’s opeless.
Lew
May 4th, 2009
5:51 pm
Excuse me-Hopeless. Must have been listening to Dogsbrekky and that Aussie accent.
Pete
May 4th, 2009
5:51 pm
Piedmont Blues (formerly BravesFan InRockies): ” In 2000, six Braves had at least 10 steals with none more than 40 (Furcal), and swiped 148 as team. They were also caught 56 times, so the low percentage of success probably didn’t help the team.”
A 73% success rate for stolen bases is anything but low.
PWHjort
May 4th, 2009
5:53 pm
Frank Wren took a 60 win team and turned it into an 80 win team. Seriously, we wouldn’t have won much more than 60 games using only the internal options we had after the 2008 season.
little pony of the apocalypse
May 4th, 2009
5:53 pm
Braves are doomed. Flee and do not look back in the direction of the Ted.
DON’T LOOK BACK!
PWHjort
May 4th, 2009
5:53 pm
nice post at 5:50, Lew.
Steve from OH
May 4th, 2009
5:57 pm
A 73% success rate for stolen bases is anything but low.
…that’s right around the break-even point for SB. They’re either breaking exactly even or just barely making out…
PWHjort
May 4th, 2009
5:57 pm
Pete, a 73% success rate doesn’t help the team in the long run. It doesn’t cost the team runs, but you don’t gain any runs from stealing at a 73% success rate. Basically, every time the Braves stole a base in 2000 they were wasting their energy.
The cunning linguist
May 4th, 2009
5:58 pm
Brekky is an Aussie slang term for flatulence.
numbers
May 4th, 2009
6:00 pm
I heard that attendance increases by about 5,000 fans (mostly walk-ups) when Kelly Johnson is in the starting lineup.
Fans are enthusiastic about this exiciting second baseman.
cvbraves
May 4th, 2009
6:01 pm
beekay
May 4th, 2009
5:17 pm
When does Deunte Heath get some love….28 innings 26k 1.29 ERA. We got some arms down on the farm. Locke almost throws a no-no at Myrtle, Morton and Hanson doing there thing in richmond. Lets trade a JOJO and a prospect like Gorkys(Schafer and Heyward are blocking him) for a big bat!
“`Uh, Braves don’t have a team in Richmond!
Pete
May 4th, 2009
6:02 pm
Steve from OH
A 73% success rate for stolen bases is anything but low.
…that’s right around the break-even point for SB. They’re either breaking exactly even or just barely making out…
I agree its about average or slightly above, which to me is not “low.”
Tonight's Braves promotion
May 4th, 2009
6:02 pm
Swine flu masks with Braves logo to the first 10,000 fans.
It is suggested that in the ninth inning, if the Braves are trailing, fans should turn the masks inside-out.
Steve from OH
May 4th, 2009
6:05 pm
Ok, fair enough
Pete
May 4th, 2009
6:05 pm
PWHjort: “Pete, a 73% success rate doesn’t help the team in the long run. It doesn’t cost the team runs, but you don’t gain any runs from stealing at a 73% success rate. Basically, every time the Braves stole a base in 2000 they were wasting their energy.”
Hard for me to argue that cause I dont have the stats to prove one way or the other. A lot depends on when the base was stolen…tight game that leads to a run, or what. You may be right on; I just dont know.
mets2009WSchamps
May 4th, 2009
6:05 pm
Watch getting to play the Braves wake the Mets up. Swweeeeppp baby!
Prediction tonight’s game: Mets 10, Braves 0
Tomorrow’s game: Mets 12, Braves 1 (wild pitch scores run)
Get ready!!
David O'Brien
May 4th, 2009
6:07 pm
McCann is expected to get his glasses on Wednesday and play that night at Class A Rome, then on Thursday at Triple-A Gwinnett before rejoining the Braves on Friday.
He can’t play at Gwinnett on Wednesday because they have a pre-noon start that day and his Oakley prescription glasses aren’t expected to arrive in time. So he’ll go up to Rome that night.
CharlieAlphaBravo
May 4th, 2009
6:07 pm
Seems like many here are overreacting to Chipper’s talk with the media about Schafer. Y’all act as if every pitcher Jordan’s faced in the last couple of weeks didn’t know about the enourmous hole in his swing. That’s clearly not the case.
Opposing pitchers have been continuously exploiting Schafer’s over-swinging by coming up and in on him. I’m no expert, but even I spotted this hole early in the season. It’s abundantly clear that the scouts have already spotted this weakness, so what does it matter if Chipper mentions it to the press?
It’s possible that Chipper’s words are directed at the pitchers, but I think it’s more likely that they are for Schafer’s benefit. I’m sure TP and Chipper have been working with Jordan to correct the problem, but so far he has not effectively cut down on his swing. Perhaps Chipper was trying to motivate Schafer to heed his advice, since telling him directly apparently isn’t working.
Chipper is the big man in the clubhouse now, and like it or not, he has become the vocal leader of the Bravos. Personally, I love his “no B.S.” approach with the media, and his hitting instruction is second to none. If nothing else, at least Chipper gives us something to talk about on an otherwise dreary day.
Andrew
May 4th, 2009
6:08 pm
Tomas,
Batting Schafer in the leadoff spot only gets him one AB with the bases empty–his first AB of the game. Your 50% figure is nonsense. Sure, batting him leadoff will give him more bases empty situations than if he were batting fourth of fifth–but other than that not much can be said. It’s all chance.
PWHjort
May 4th, 2009
6:08 pm
In the long run around 70% is the break-even point for stolen bases (depending on the situations you choose to attempt a stolen base in). Of course stealing 1 will raise your win probability and getting caught will lower it, but in the long run if you steal at a rate around 70%, you’re wasting your time.
Tomorrow's Braves promotion
May 4th, 2009
6:08 pm
Garret Anderson inACTION FIGURE. Free to ALL paying fans!!!
Your child will refuse to play with this uncanny replica. Made out of brittle metal the figure does not bend or move in any way and is guaranteed to not last the season. Made in China. (Don’t let you child eat the paint.)
Andrew
May 4th, 2009
6:09 pm
obnoxious met fan.
Braves will tee-off on big ‘ole Livan. No doubt about it.
McFann Ô
May 4th, 2009
6:09 pm
Thanks for the information, Chief!
TnBrian
May 4th, 2009
6:11 pm
mets09WC, isn’t there any after school activities to keep you busy? You’ll be going into middle school next year and you need to prepare for more after school stuff.
dogsbrekky
May 4th, 2009
6:13 pm
Lew – thanks, we few Perth boys must be getting through with that lack of “longevity of speech”
“Party on Wayne”
Drixie
May 4th, 2009
6:13 pm
The Nats are the only team in the NL East with no shot at the playoffs. I think it will take about 90 wins to win the East. There’s going to be some jockeying between the 4 (non-Nats) teams all season long. No team is without its weak points. If The Mets had signed Lowe they would be the heavy favorite. Not signing Lowe forced the signing of Ollie “The Faucet” Perez who’s been running mostly ice cold in 2009. They used to say Perez was a “Braves beater” but now I think he is a much better “Mets beater.”
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
6:14 pm
I know everyone is probably tired of this question but how’s the weather holding up out there? Going to be able to get the entire game in without a delay?
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
6:15 pm
and DOB, thanks for the update on Mac…hope the glasses work- looking forward to getting him back in the lineup
nolie
May 4th, 2009
6:15 pm
Do we go for the best available righty? Or the next superstar third baseman? How about another catcher or second baseman? Outfielder anyone? (RICH BRAVE)
Teams, including the Braves very seldom draft by position unless they feel there is a guy so advanced that he can make the majors in two years or so. It will likely be a pitcher since there will probably be a few well-respected ones left although you are correct about the best ones being gone. Or “best available athlete” if all the pitchers they covet are gone. That might translate into Donovan Tate a Georgia outfielder though I kinda hope not.
nolie
May 4th, 2009
6:17 pm
(DOB)
Thanx for a picture of the love of my like, but couldn’t you find a “hotter” one?
McFann Ô
May 4th, 2009
6:18 pm
cabravesfan–
The highest chance of rain is around 10 PM.
hope the glasses work- looking forward to getting him back in the lineup
Me, too!!! Feels like it’s been forEVER since he’s played!!
Wayne in Utah
May 4th, 2009
6:23 pm
dogsbrekky
Why, I believe I will! (party on, that is)
Frank from KS
May 4th, 2009
6:23 pm
tvsportscaster re: your 5:41 pm
Great post!!!
Tom O'Hawke
May 4th, 2009
6:24 pm
nolie, I posted this yesterday, shortly before the new blog. I didn’t repost it because I think you were around. I wanted to make sure you know I appreciate the trouble you went through.
I read your LCD vs. plasma tv comparison from Saturday am. Wow, when I asked you your thoughts on the subject, I didn’t mean to put you through so much trouble. That was really nice of you to do that. That was quite the comprehensive comparison. So much so, that I copied it, pasted it in on a notepad and saved it in a folder. When the time comes, I’ll read it again. If I had to buy one right now, I’d probably buy the plasma (I don’t play any games on tv). I can’t think of any question I would have, that you didn’t already cover. Great job and thanks alot!
propp
May 4th, 2009
6:24 pm
for any Mets fan….
I thought Reyes was going to be hitting third. What happened with that? Just curious
Coach (2010 or bust)
May 4th, 2009
6:24 pm
The Tampa Rays have stolen 40 out of 46 bases. That’s an .870 success rate and it’s just killing their offense. By the way, concerning the six steals by Carl Crawford last night. The only Braves player to do it…..Otis Nixon back in 1991.
Tom O'Hawke
May 4th, 2009
6:25 pm
I DIDN’T think (story of my life)
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
6:26 pm
McFann-
Thanks!
Frank from KS
May 4th, 2009
6:28 pm
nolie re: your 6:17 pm
DOB sure could’ve posted one of the love of my life….*Shania Twain*.
Lol
Tom O'Hawke
May 4th, 2009
6:28 pm
I always thought I was a little weird thinking that Tina Fey is sexy. Apparently, I’m not alone. I even think her name is sexy … Tina Fey, Tina Fey … ummmm
Pete
May 4th, 2009
6:29 pm
Coach (2010 or bust): “The Tampa Rays have stolen 40 out of 46 bases. That’s an .870 success rate and it’s just killing their offense.”
How is that killing their offense?
nolie
May 4th, 2009
6:30 pm
OH Boy sports fans. Hot battle brewing between Anders of the elite clients fame, and Dogsbrekky who runs in circles with the baseball ownership crowd. Might be some heavy punches tonight. Hope there is no collateral damage in this battle of the titans.
nolie
May 4th, 2009
6:32 pm
Crawford stole…6 in one ga–oh my (McFann)
and Big Mac wasn’t even the catcher
Bobby's Cox
May 4th, 2009
6:32 pm
Now, as somebody stated earlier, their are on a streak where they have averaged around 2 ER per 9 innings.
Like I stated last night, the season is full of wild swings, both good and bad. Wayne
Yes Wayne, but the problem is when the pitchers are pitching good, they get no run support. When the hitters start scoring runs, the pitchers can’t keep the opposition from running across home plate. Different year, same story. This bunch has no chemistry. They seem to play to the level of the competition. But the problem is, when games are close, they lack the determination and know-how to end up on top.
Bobby needs to mix it up, and KJ at leadoff, Kotchman in the cleanup, and Schafer 8th, has been the worst lineup we’ve seen this year. We need a healthy McCann back, and another right handed, steady .300 bat in this lineup to see at least some success, whether that’s in LF or at 2B. Today’s lineup doesn’t have half of that.
Metropolitan Man1
May 4th, 2009
6:33 pm
Well its that time of the year again. Both teams are scuffing while 3rd place hangs in the balance. Both GMs dropped the ball in the offseason and need to fix some holes. Tell Chumper to let the GM call out players in public and let him do it in private. See you at the Turd tommorrow.
Tom O'Hawke
May 4th, 2009
6:33 pm
Hi cabravesfan … Did you have a good time in Vegas this past weekend? Make any money? Did you get Wayne Newton’s autograph?
P-Town Brave(Time to Find a New Staff)
May 4th, 2009
6:34 pm
Great…the only thing we need more to cap off another disappointing season, a 41-yr old has been pitcher who is extremely overweight now and can only throw 80 mph….thats EXCITING!
Face it guys, whether anyone likes it or not, this season is already close to being over simply because we have a manager that doesn’t learn from the past.
Oh, and to the guy who brought up the 1 WS ring…you hit the nail right on the head. Yes, 14 division titles and the streak may never be broken, BUT neither will 14 titles and 1 ring…
A major disappointment to anyone that “isn’t just happy to be there”.
Then again, that seems to be how the players on the Atlanta club are playing right now…
Hey, thats fine…if they’re just happy to be in the majors and don’t care to play quality baseball and Bobby Cox doesn’t care to put a quality product out on the field…Fine with me…I like others just will decide to spend my hard earned money elsewhere…
Given the televised games on Fri and Sun, it already looks like a morgue at Turner…and sadly, its going to get worse!
Tomas
May 4th, 2009
6:35 pm
Andrew, unless there is a good # 8 hitter and a good pitcher chances are the leadoff hitter is going to have the bases empty.
Of Kelly’s 73 at bats 47 of them have been with the bases empty that’s over 50 %.
Of Jose Reyes 97 at bats 60 of them have been with the bases empty that’s over 50 %.
Of Jimmy Rollins 90 at bats 60 of them have been with the bases empty that’s over 50 %.
Of Emilio Bonifacio’s 105 at bats 70 of them have been with the bases empty that’s over 50 %.
So you see, at least most of the time, leadoff hitters bat with the bases empty. It’s not an exact science, there will be some exceptions sometimes. Offcourse this only applies in the national league.
Coach (2010 or bust)
May 4th, 2009
6:35 pm
Pete, that’s a joke. HAHA , funny ain’t it?
Frank from KS
May 4th, 2009
6:37 pm
Holy &%$#@
Farve ala Michael Jordan?
What do ya all think about this rumor…..Brett Farve a Viking?
McFann Ô
May 4th, 2009
6:37 pm
cabravesfan–
You’re welcome!
Nolie–
Yeah, yeah…Ya know, he caught three guys in one game in Arizona back in ‘07.
TnBrian
May 4th, 2009
6:38 pm
Bobby’s Cox, Bobby is more than likely not in panic mode which he,the players, or any of us fans shouldn’t be. Maybe Bobby feels…well, I really don’t know why he’s throwing that lineup out there again. But Maine and Hernandez? We should be able to produce at least a few runs off these guys. Vazquez has the edge in Gm.1 while Gm.2 is a toss up between two pretty bad pitchers. Kawa. might turn it around, but I don’t know. Who cares, lets just enjoy the game!
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
6:40 pm
Tom O’Hawke-
hey! Vegas was fun- really really hot though, and crowded (note to self: avoid Vegas on fight night)- managed not to loose too much money
and it took 7 hours to get home.
(i’ve never quite understood the appeal of Wayne Newton, he of the plastic face and cheesy songs…)
nolie
May 4th, 2009
6:40 pm
s it too late to get rid of crotchety ol’ grandpa? Maybe to the AL as a DH? (GoTigers72)
If you mean Anderson, it is too early not too late. Can’t trade a free agent signee until June 15 without his consent and the union’s blessing, which they almost never give. Gotta hang in there another month and a half friend.
TnBrian
May 4th, 2009
6:40 pm
Jennifer Aniston is fun to look at….mmmmmmm,yummy!
Tom O'Hawke
May 4th, 2009
6:41 pm
nolie
You scanned too quickly and missed it. Anders and dogsbrekky kissed and made up.
Tom O'Hawke
May 4th, 2009
6:46 pm
cabravesfan, that last part was supposed to be a plastic and cheesy joke.
Bobby's Cox
May 4th, 2009
6:46 pm
yes TnBrian, regardless of the outcome, I will enjoy the game. I’ll agree on that more than your Jennifer Anniston comment….
P-Town Brave(Time to Find a New Staff)
May 4th, 2009
6:47 pm
TnBrian-
Bobby is not in panic mode nor is he ever because a) he’s 100 years old now and there’s nothing to fear but death and b) because no one has the balls to tell him to step down, so he has better job security than President Obama.
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
6:47 pm
Tom-
didn’t think you were serious
Pete
May 4th, 2009
6:49 pm
Coach (2010 or bust): “Pete, that’s a joke. HAHA , funny ain’t it?”
Ahhhh I should have picked up on your sarcasm…thanks for the clarification!
Bobby's breath
May 4th, 2009
6:51 pm
Lay off Wayne Newton. He’s a fine entertainer and a very dear friend of Bobby Cox.
Wayne Newton has been in Vegas so long, he has earned the right to stay as long as he pleases. He’ll decide when it’s time to retire.
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
6:53 pm
I know this is off topic but have any of you read Mitch Albolm’s books?
They are great.
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
6:53 pm
lol…Albom sorry
Tom O'Hawke
May 4th, 2009
6:54 pm
cabravesfan — Man, 7 hours is a long time to go from Vegas to LA. I can almost make it in that time from upstate NY. That’s a motherload of traffic. Unless you partied too much and took the scenic route home through Kansas.
Moderate Maniac
May 4th, 2009
6:54 pm
Did I read that correctly? Is it just me or do I expect that because a big league ballclub can pay 90 mil in payroll, they should be able to get McCann a pair of glasses faster than one day before he comes off the DL? I mean it will have been a week since they decided to go the glasses route. (which I think should have been considered from day one) Doesn’t money talk anymore? (especially in this economy) So the glasses company says, that will be $600 and it will be a week. Shouldn’t the Braves say, no, that will be $2000 that we’re going to give you and it will be day after tomorrow! Or even “no we’ll give you $5000 and we want them in two days!” Just how much does a loss cost you in the standings-revenue-attendance-merchandise? What IF the glasses aren’t just right and the Rx needs a bit of tweaking. So McCann needs to wait another week to get more glasses? Do McCann and the Braves twiddle their thumbs for a week?
Like I said, is it me or has the McCann glasses-contacts-Lasik surgery thing drug on forever without resolution? And no I’m not being insensitive to McCann. I don’t want him playing and jeopardizing his health or career if he can’t see. I just feel like the Braves should have been proactive and considered ALL Options from day one. (Glasses-contacts-Lasik) I also didn’t understand watching McCann sitting in the dugout on the last road trip and the announcers saying, “he’ll see the doctor when we get back to Atlanta.” What the??? Why didn’t they send him home and start the process of finding a fix right then and there instead of waiting until they just so happen to go home off the roadtrip.
Braves management doesn’t seem to have a sense of urgency so it’s not hard to understand why sometimes the players don’t have a sense of urgency either.
Lew
May 4th, 2009
6:54 pm
Yeah-Bobby’s the Supreme Court Justice of Baseball Managers-a lifetime position.
Afgani Braves fan
May 4th, 2009
6:56 pm
what kind of name kelly jonson. no one that name in koran or even bible.
omar infante good. omar good muslim name.
may braves win, allah willing.
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
6:56 pm
Tom-
took almost an hour to get to Stateline, nearly 4 to Barstow…there was a load of traffic and a lovely sandstorm to go with the 40 mph wind gusts…good times!
Smyrna Jim
May 4th, 2009
6:57 pm
Tom and cabravesfan – have you ever seen pictures of Wayne Newton when he was young – he had a baby face on a not-skinny body, and did not have what one would consider a deep, husky voice. He was a weird and strange phenomenon back then, yet in a totally different way than he is weird and strange now. (I know this from reading history books, not personal knowledge, which would make me seem almost twenty years older than you guys).
Steve from OH
May 4th, 2009
6:57 pm
So, Ollie to the ‘pen and 40-year old rookie Ken Takahashi is in the rotation…a recipe for success right there.
correction...
May 4th, 2009
6:58 pm
“Yeah-Bobby’s the Supreme Court Justice of Baseball Managers-a lifetime position.”
No Bobby is a tenured, burnt-out English lit teacher at a community college – a lifetime position.
nolie
May 4th, 2009
6:59 pm
I even think her name is sexy … Tina Fey, Tina Fey … ummmm (TOM O)
it’s even kinda fey sounding.
You’re welcome on the tv display post. Glad you found it helpful. Just don’t believe all the morons who will tell you that you gotta get ia plasma recharged every year or two.
Tomas
May 4th, 2009
6:59 pm
**bold**
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
7:01 pm
Smyrna Jim-
haven’t seen pics from when he was young but I imagine he looks about the same (ahh, the wonders of Botox!)
Metropolitan Man 1
May 4th, 2009
7:01 pm
Propp: There wasnt enough time to experiment with Reyes at 3rd due to the WBC. Besides he needs to stay at leadoff until he starts hitting 20-25 bombs a year.
Metropolitan Man 1
May 4th, 2009
7:02 pm
Enter your comments here
BabyGoatEater
May 4th, 2009
7:02 pm
Seriously….anyone have the Braves 1 slot stats? I looked at a few sites (briefly) but couldn’t find any sortable stats for batting position per team. Does anyone have a link to a non-paid site, where I could get them myself? I really would like to see how they stack up to Schafer’s line, even with the strikeouts.
Tomas
May 4th, 2009
7:02 pm
Hey who knows how to write in italic and bold letters?
CharlieAlphaBravo
May 4th, 2009
7:02 pm
Anyone read Furman Bisher’s latest column about the Braves farm system (or apparent lack there of)? I usually am a big fan of Furman’s but this latest article leaves me scratching my head.
He blames two trades (the Texiera trade last year and the Drew for Wainwright nearly a decade ago) for essentially routing our farm system, but fails to mention the numerous smaller trades that have replaced many of the departed prospects (ie: Jurrjens, Gorkys H., Medlen, Kotchman, etc.). Not to mention the plethora of young, home-grown talent waiting in the wings (ie: Heyward, Hanson, Freeman, etc.).
I liken Furman to George Will, in that the lack of research and casual, fan-like attitude about baseball sometimes makes him more in tune with the little idosyncracies of the game and its culture. This unique perspective is what often makes his writing so charming. So what’s the big difference??
George Will is a political columnist.
If Mr. Bisher is going to continue to assume the title of “sports columnist,” then he should at least utilize his extensive access and resources enough to know more about the Braves than I do.
Party on, Wayne Newton
May 4th, 2009
7:02 pm
Wayne Newton played Andy Walker in two episodes of Bonanza, in 1966.
One episode was called the unwritten commandment. Songs sung by Wayne Newton in this episode are “Old Joe Clark”, “Scarlet Ribbons”, “Danny Boy” and “The Old Rugged Cross”.
Smyrna Jim
May 4th, 2009
7:02 pm
cabravesfan – on a “Chuck” note – NBC did their upfronts today to announce new and returning shows for the fall, but they have not yet announced a decision on several shows, including Chuck, so it is unclear if it will return. Did you see the season finale last week?
CharlieAlphaBravo
May 4th, 2009
7:03 pm
Gee, not nearly as much Metropolitan trash talking on here as usual… Wonder why that is??
Tomas
May 4th, 2009
7:03 pm
Did I hear Chip Caray just say rain rain go away, don’t tel me it’s going to rain again.
HIDEF
May 4th, 2009
7:04 pm
Is the Peachtree HD channel feed down?
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
7:04 pm
Smyrna Jim-
I did- I really like that show, hope they bring it back (from things I’ve read, it looks good that they will)
David O'Brien
May 4th, 2009
7:05 pm
Can you believe it, game time and the sun is shining. Hallelujah!
Burman Fisher
May 4th, 2009
7:05 pm
I do declare! I report in the old fashioned way. I research topics by going down to the barber shop and discussing them with my coterie of 80-year old friends while sipping cocoa.
mr baseball
May 4th, 2009
7:06 pm
If the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result, I guess it’s time to commit Chance the Manager.
Other than Chipper, is anyone in the lineup hitting in a spot best suited to his skill? KJ is not a leadoff hitter. Yunel is not a No. 2 hitter. Kotchman is in no way a cleanup hitter. As the only player in the lineup with the slightest bit of speed, Schafer doesn’t need to be hitting 8th.
Has Cox given up on the idea of playing Infante in the OF? Evidently so. Guess that means Schafer’s gonna start 162 games in CF and Infante can only play against lefties or when Chipper or Yunel is hurt.
How about this:
Infante, LF
Schafer, CF
Jones, 3B
Francouer, RF
Johnson, 2b
Escobar SS
Prado, 1B
Ross, C
A 1B who has no homers, is timed from first to third with an hour glass and is on pace to drive in about 25 runs this season does not need to be wasting a spot in the lineup. Kotchman is useless offensively. It will probably hurt the defense to have him on the bench, but on a team that struggles to score more than 2 runs a game, it’s an acceptible risk.
Braves need to find someone who can play 1B and actually hit like a 1B. Unfortunately, there’s no one on the current roster who fits that bill.
It’s understandable that Kotchman is still in the lineup considering the lack of a real alternative. But to have the guy batting cleanup is a stark reminder that the guy making the decisions in the dugout is utterly clueless and needs to be pointed in the direction of the home where washed-up old managers go to retire.
This team is unlikely to win even if Cox is replaced. It has next to no chance with him filling out the lineup card.
Jeff321
May 4th, 2009
7:06 pm
The PTV feed on MLB looks stretched. So, I switched on over to SNY for now.
Moby Grape
May 4th, 2009
7:07 pm
Ahhhh I should have picked up on your sarcasm…thanks for the clarification! PETE to Coach)
sarcasm without a point is worthless. Nobody here has ever said that speed would hurt a lineup. Just another of Coach’s straw dogs that he loves to set up so he can knock them down and try to fool others into thinking he is making sense. Coach is the Devil.
HIDEF
May 4th, 2009
7:09 pm
Jeff, Maybe something is wrong with the HD feed and they are using the analog feed. Might explain the stretching to fit the ratio.
That may answer my question. I’m not getting the HD feed on my cable, which is unusual.
Frank from KS
May 4th, 2009
7:09 pm
The Yanks and R. Sox are in a rain delay….so ESPN will show other games in it’s place until no rain in NY.
AJC SUCKS
May 4th, 2009
7:09 pm
wahhhhhhh everyone cry all together!!!!
Roman Gal
May 4th, 2009
7:09 pm
McCann in Rome on Wednesday?!
I’m thinking Wednesday is a good day to go to my first Rome Braves game of the season…
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
7:10 pm
Baby Goat Eater
it won’t let me link it but type in … baseball DASH reference DOT com
Chop Chop
May 4th, 2009
7:10 pm
Man, Joba’s mom is a thousand miles of bad road.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
7:10 pm
Man! over a 5-1 Walk K Ratio, Javy should be 4-0…
AJC SUCKS
May 4th, 2009
7:10 pm
strikeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee
TnBrian
May 4th, 2009
7:10 pm
Bobby Cox’s, Jennifer Aniston is VERY sexy! Shame on you!
McFann Ô
May 4th, 2009
7:11 pm
Tomas–
I do! Click here.
BTW–Knowitall–
Sorry, I meant to respond to you a while ago–You’re welcome! No, I didn’t know, but always happy to be of service!
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
7:11 pm
8 walks vs. 42 Ks for Javy? I’d say he was worth it…
AJC SUCKS
May 4th, 2009
7:11 pm
outttttttttttttttttt
Moby Grape
May 4th, 2009
7:11 pm
haven’t seen pics from when he was young but I imagine he looks about the same (ahh, the wonders of Botox!) (CBF)
somewhat but his face could actually move then
Greg Norton is a baseball god!!!
May 4th, 2009
7:11 pm
Norton is hot. Bobby should play him at first.
AJC SUCKS
May 4th, 2009
7:12 pm
outtttttttttttttttttttttttttttt
McFann Ô
May 4th, 2009
7:12 pm
Roman Gal–
Yeah! And I’m thinking Thursday might be a good day to go to my second Gwinnett Braves game…
Chop Chop
May 4th, 2009
7:12 pm
I wonder when the Peachtree feed will start this time…
My cable company doesn’t know its head from its ***.
Jeff321
May 4th, 2009
7:12 pm
Did Dave Ross get a new chest protector?
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
7:13 pm
Moby Grape-
this is true
AJC SUCKS
May 4th, 2009
7:13 pm
walkkkkkkkkkkkkkk
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
7:14 pm
Anyone else on DirectTV not have the game? Has this been asked 400 times?
AJC SUCKS
May 4th, 2009
7:14 pm
run heap its on my direct TV
Tom O'Hawke
May 4th, 2009
7:14 pm
Jim
I saw a tv special, not too long ago, maybe it was VH1, I’m not sure but it was about all the different musical acts on the old “Ed Sullivan Show”. Back in those days, he had everybody on. Elvis, the Beatles, Stones, actually all or most of the “British Invasion”, and of course, Wayne Newton.
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
7:15 pm
Man with what I’ve seen from D. Murphy so far in LF I can’t wait to see how he is when it gets dark out there with no lights…lol
AJC SUCKS
May 4th, 2009
7:16 pm
on 734
Roman Gal
May 4th, 2009
7:16 pm
Good plan, McFann
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
7:16 pm
Run Heap Run-
DirecTV’s working fine here
AJC SUCKS
May 4th, 2009
7:16 pm
K
Jeff321
May 4th, 2009
7:16 pm
Hidef, yeah I believe you’re right. Now PTV has the sidebar action.
Chop Chop
May 4th, 2009
7:17 pm
Only missed the top of the first this time. Enjoy the game, folks.
TnBrian
May 4th, 2009
7:17 pm
Vazquez looks sharp as a tack!
Roja
May 4th, 2009
7:17 pm
Once the scouts watched Schaefer hit twice, they knew his weakness. If they had seen him in Spring Training, they already knew. Even without any scouts, a good MLB pitcher can figure out a hitter’s weaknesses… Maddux could do it in less that one at bat when he was pitching. Chipper was only saying what 99.999999999% of the scouts already know.
Bobby's Cox
May 4th, 2009
7:17 pm
Some fun stats for y’all to read….
The Braves are tied for 7th in all of baseball for the most GDIP (21), and tied for 2nd in the NL with Houston and the Mets. The league leaders are Toronto (33), Boston (27), LAD (26), Seattle (26), Detroit (25), and Minnesota (23).
However, the Dodgers, Mets, Red Sox, and Blue Jays, respectively, rank 1-4 in baseball in OBP. The Braves are 12th in baseball in OBP. Detroit (14th), Minnesota (20th), Seattle (26th), and Houston (27th) are the only teams with lesser OBP than have hit just as many or more double plays than the Braves.
All of these teams, except for Houston, have a higher team Batting Average (Braves are 19th), and have scored more runs. All of these teams have hit more HR (even HOU) and Sac Flys. And, all these teams have at least 3 times as many SB as the Braves who have 4 SB (Toronto is the next lowest with 12).
Escobar and Francouer have each hit into 5 double plays and rank 12th,13th in baseball/6th/7th in the NL with the most. The league leaders (4 players including A. Hill, Pedroia, Lowell, Eithier) have 7 GIDP.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
7:17 pm
hopefully Delgado will get tossed over the break, one less bat we have to worry about…
Offense Come On! Spot Javy some Runs Early, So he doesn’t have to pitch on a tightrope all game
David O'Brien
May 4th, 2009
7:18 pm
Jason in Atl: I’m a fan of both bands, and have commented on both quite frequently in the past. Just last week I said the new Heartless Bastards album is very good.
If I wasn’t gonna be here covering a game tomorrow night, I’d go. Alas, I’ll be here working, bro.
AJC SUCKS
May 4th, 2009
7:18 pm
outtttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttt
N Nine
May 4th, 2009
7:19 pm
welcome back to leadoff KELLY!
Stephen
May 4th, 2009
7:19 pm
Don’t try and prove your worth at the top of the line up, Kelly, just jump on that first pitch.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
7:19 pm
I hope KJ’s 1 pitch At-bat isn’t an omen for how the offense will perform…
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
7:19 pm
Grrr it’s 651 on my direct tv and it’s never not started a few minutes before game time before. I really don’t wanna call them BUT I WILL.
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
7:20 pm
I know Schafer K’s but he would’ve seen more than 1 pitch.
AJC SUCKS
May 4th, 2009
7:20 pm
out!
KC
May 4th, 2009
7:20 pm
Oh good… KJ in the leadoff spot again. He’s really excelled there, so I’m glad to see Bobby put him back in that position.
Jeff321
May 4th, 2009
7:20 pm
Wow, took my dinner plate to the kitchen.. came back and Escobar was already up!
semiballcoach
May 4th, 2009
7:20 pm
carlos santana could beat this lineup
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
7:21 pm
There it is. I scared them I guess.
AJC SUCKS
May 4th, 2009
7:21 pm
Run Heap Run— do u have the MLB package?
‘
AJC SUCKS
May 4th, 2009
7:22 pm
Run Heap Run— I cuss directv everyday!
Frank from KS
May 4th, 2009
7:22 pm
TnBrian re: your 7:10 p.m.
I second that…(Lol)
Roman Gal
May 4th, 2009
7:22 pm
Speaking of Rome on Wednesday…
Does anyone know who’s supposed to pitch for them?
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
7:22 pm
Man this is like the first real AB Chipper has had in like a week!
BravesFanChris24
May 4th, 2009
7:22 pm
I’m watching via Met’s feed on MLBEI.
AJC SUCKS
May 4th, 2009
7:22 pm
walk!
Stephen
May 4th, 2009
7:22 pm
And Chipper puts on a clinic. Why can’t the other losers in this line up learn.
Smyrna Jim
May 4th, 2009
7:23 pm
Tom – it was amazing that a man with zero personality and performing ability hosted one of the top shows in those days.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
7:24 pm
Chipper will Continue to get pitched around this series and this season for that matter unless our #4 hitters do something, “Bank On It!”
KC
May 4th, 2009
7:24 pm
We all know great pitching beats great hitting.
But poor pitching vs. poor hitting… who wins? I guess we’ll find out.
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
7:24 pm
Chipper had more walks in April LAST year than he did this year. So Tex/Casey no big difference this early in the season.
AJC SUCKS
May 4th, 2009
7:24 pm
Damn so close to a HR
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
7:25 pm
Dammit, I hate this Ballpark’s Dimensions thats a homer in 25 mlb ballparks….
lexbrave
May 4th, 2009
7:25 pm
could it be more obvious that the mets announcers hate the braves? they opened the night talking about how much the two teams hate each other, looks like they were speaking first hand.
so far its the bottom of the 1st and they’ve already ragged on vasquez, kotchman and chipper.
N Nine
May 4th, 2009
7:26 pm
The last week or so we’ve had MAD warning track power. Has anyone else noticed that?
What the hell happened to Kotchi? He has never been himself since the trade. He had 8HR’s last year at this time…
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
7:26 pm
That;s a homer in Anaheim….someone inform Casey he’s not there anymore.
1995
May 4th, 2009
7:27 pm
Cox goes back to lineup that hasnt scored. Im thinking he is trying to lose now because it makes no sense to keep switching from what works. He is a stubborn OLD man and we all pay the price for grandpa’s decisions.
northbeach Scott
May 4th, 2009
7:27 pm
The insipid Chip Caray is such a douchebag. Does he not have any sense of when a fly ball is an out vs a HR. You do not need many games to get a feel for how deep the ball is. Alternatively, does Chip think he is adding useful drama to act like a routine fly ball is almost a tremendous HR?
WTF kind of comment is “if Kotchman had just eaten one more biscuit, it would have been out in the bullpen?” STFU Chip.
Jeff Blauser
May 4th, 2009
7:28 pm
Somebody get Kotchman some steroids
AJC SUCKS
May 4th, 2009
7:29 pm
another K
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
7:29 pm
So Kelly took 1 pitch huh? Is the 3rd inning to early to bench him and let Infante play?
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
7:29 pm
N Nine-
Casey seems to hit most of his balls to right & right center field- Anaheim Stadium’s right center field wall is nearly 30 feet closer in then the one at Turner…that may have something to do with it…
P-Town Brave(Time to Find a New Staff)
May 4th, 2009
7:30 pm
Amazing first AB by Kelly…
If I had to take a #2 I would’ve missed the 1st inning yet again.
Glad to see Prado and Infante (our best 2 hitters) gathering splinters on the bench again…
SNY commented on the crowd and how it looks just exactly as I predicted earlier (i.e. a morgue)
propp
May 4th, 2009
7:30 pm
Watch it Blauser, Sheffield is inthe ballpark
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
7:30 pm
Escobar inadvertently kneed him? Try Church threw his Body into Escobar and Escobar tried not to get killed.
I know some people don’t like Esocbar but that was a bad play on Ryan’s part. But let’s get back to the game.
What the Fungo?
May 4th, 2009
7:30 pm
Watching David Wright struggle and strikeout is almost as fun as watching the Braves win. Almost. Thankfully, at least one of those two things is happening with solid frequency this year.
tito
May 4th, 2009
7:31 pm
“Cox goes back to lineup that hasnt scored.”
his reasoning is, well, this lineup is due. law of averages right?
AJC SUCKS
May 4th, 2009
7:31 pm
yet another K
mr baseball
May 4th, 2009
7:31 pm
Is our cleanup hitter caoable of hitting the ball over the fence in a major league park? Maybe Cincy or Philly. Not Atlanta. Why would any pitcher give Chipper anything to hit with a cleanup hitter behind him who has zero HRs and all of 4 RBIs the first month of the season?
If Vazquez does his usual job and gives up 2 or 3 runs, he’s looking at an L or a ND. Probably needs to hold ‘em to a run or less if he’s going to get a W.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
7:32 pm
Javy has looked Sharp! Offense Give the Man Some DAMN Runs to Play with, Please, I’m begging you…!
Stephen
May 4th, 2009
7:32 pm
Did he just say idiosyncrasies? We dun now wut that werd meens round her!
AJC SUCKS
May 4th, 2009
7:32 pm
Enter your comments here
propp
May 4th, 2009
7:32 pm
man, vazquez can throw some strikes
tito
May 4th, 2009
7:33 pm
“So Kelly took 1 pitch huh?”
Well, if you meant it took him 1 pitch to get out, then yes. If not, then no, he didn’t take any pitches.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
7:33 pm
P-TownBrave, LOL
You sound more pessimistic than I do about this team…
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
7:34 pm
Kelly will make those nuns cuss before this game is over.
N Nine
May 4th, 2009
7:34 pm
cabravesfan
That would explain why he has ZERO HR and only 4 RBI’s. Man we have a pitcher friendly park don’t we?
Sounds like Vegas was busy as always, any crazy action while there?
David O'Brien
May 4th, 2009
7:35 pm
another hit on a two-strike count for Francoeur (count was 1-2)
Jeff321
May 4th, 2009
7:35 pm
Nice recovery by Frenchy after looking not so good earlier in the count.
McFann Ô
May 4th, 2009
7:35 pm
Roman Gal–
Yours is a good plann, too…hopefully it will work out for both of us!
northbeach Scott–
Yeah, that biscuit comment was bizarre. And I can’t stand it when he acts like every fly ball is gonna leave the park. Like that fly out his lover Pujols hit with the bases loaded last week–he says something like, “That ball is crushed!” Arg…
Roman Gal
May 4th, 2009
7:36 pm
Jeff Blauser
I just got put on steriods. They’re not all they’re cracked up to be…
tito
May 4th, 2009
7:37 pm
If ya’ll want Kelly to start at 2nd because he has more power, then should we all be clamoring over Prado to start at 1st? I mean, he’s hit more HR, and has more RBI in nearly 1/3 the at bats, not to mention a higher BA, OBP, and .140 points higher SLG.
Stephen
May 4th, 2009
7:37 pm
I must not think about double plays, I must not think about double plays……..
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
7:37 pm
Come On Offense We need to get at least 1, I’m getting desperate with this Weak A..s offense…No DP’s!
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
7:37 pm
N Nine-
any crazy action while there
You mean aside from the Drunk guys breaking into “my old Kentucky Home” along with the bugle during the derby, the crazy british fight fans or the 20+ drunk frat boys I ended up watching the Bulls/Celtics game 7 with at the sports book? Or perhaps the hordes of mostly naked girls dressed up for Prom Night on Saturday? Nope, just a quiet, boring weekend in Vegas
semiballcoach
May 4th, 2009
7:39 pm
we need to platoon bobby cox, any ideas?
Tom O'Hawke
May 4th, 2009
7:39 pm
Tom – it was amazing that a man with zero personality and performing ability hosted one of the top shows in those days.
You know, JIm, other than that hosting part, Mr. Sullivan and I had a lot in common.
Stephen
May 4th, 2009
7:39 pm
The only way we know how to score, bring on the walks baby.
northbeach Scott
May 4th, 2009
7:39 pm
Chip Caray is such a shill for the Braves. If the Braves reframe the Garret Anderson refusal to take a rehab assignment, then it must be true. Yeah, Chip, may be good enough for you, but not for me.
Garret best have his hitting shoes on when he returns or he is going to hear the boo-birds at the Ted, just like Frenchy did last year. Zero tolerance for foolishness with the Braves performing so poorly.
cricket
May 4th, 2009
7:40 pm
Maine is missing low, good for Logan.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
7:40 pm
At least we are making Maine Work this Inning, Nice Patience!
AJC SUCKS
May 4th, 2009
7:40 pm
Schafer is a strikeout man…..
Stephen
May 4th, 2009
7:40 pm
Cmon, Jordan, F*ck.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
7:41 pm
This is painful to watch! Not hating on Looks like a AAA player here
Stephen
May 4th, 2009
7:41 pm
The dude can’t throw a strike and he’s hacking at the first 2 pitches.
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
7:41 pm
N Nine-
Yeah, I think Turner Field is pretty pitcher friendly- ball just doesn’t seem to carry as well as it does to some parks (Anaheim being one of them)…and the 390 to the power allys is rather far
Stephen
May 4th, 2009
7:41 pm
F*cking pathetic.
AJC SUCKS
May 4th, 2009
7:41 pm
ahhhhhh another K for schafer….needs to go to AA
What the Fungo?
May 4th, 2009
7:42 pm
I think that’s one of those situations Chipper was alluding to…
Il Cattivo
May 4th, 2009
7:42 pm
Looks like the bases loaded curse is following Schafer this year. Goodness he needs to work on it.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
7:42 pm
Another Turning point in the Game If we lose It’s because of this Crap! Jordan needs to Leadoff, WTF Bobby!!!
semiballcoach
May 4th, 2009
7:42 pm
ii f vazquez don’t walk, no runs for braves
AJC SUCKS
May 4th, 2009
7:42 pm
better yet how about T- BAll for schafer
kirtkinga
May 4th, 2009
7:42 pm
Chip and Joe say that the Garret Anderson was different than was reported on the wire service. Joe says there is a big difference between being given a choice and saying “no” and “refusing” to do what was asked.
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
7:42 pm
That works
KC
May 4th, 2009
7:42 pm
If Schafer’s wrist is bothering him to much to hit inside pitches, then they need to give Infante a few starts in Center and sit the kid down. He’s looking completely overmatched by everyone right now.
Smyrna Jim
May 4th, 2009
7:42 pm
Hey, if it works!
keylargo
May 4th, 2009
7:43 pm
Thank David Ross for run #2.
Bobby's Cox
May 4th, 2009
7:43 pm
Ouch. Schafer…Choke up man…
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
7:43 pm
Nice Hustle! and I Give a Shoutout to D-Ross on that, Thats the little things called “SmallBall” Me and Coach were talking about…!
cricket
May 4th, 2009
7:44 pm
Vazquez should take Logan under his wings to improve his hitting approach with RISP.
TnBrian
May 4th, 2009
7:44 pm
I like that Ross guy!
kirkinga
May 4th, 2009
7:44 pm
Good hustle by Javier and great slide by Ross!
propp
May 4th, 2009
7:44 pm
did you see Ross take out the relay throw? He plays hard. That should be our cleanup hitter
T-BALL FOR SCHAFER!!!!!
May 4th, 2009
7:44 pm
WOOOHOOOO
N Nine
May 4th, 2009
7:45 pm
cabravesfan
HA! Can you imagine living there!? Endless days of unexpected fun! Those drunk guys were attracted to your blue eyes!
Smyrna Jim
May 4th, 2009
7:45 pm
Bueno Javy!
3k's = schafer
May 4th, 2009
7:45 pm
good effort vazques.
T-BALL FOR SCHAFER!!!!!
May 4th, 2009
7:45 pm
OMG WE ARE LEADING. HAVENT SEEN THAT IN 4EVER…. no thanks to schafer!!!
Jeff321
May 4th, 2009
7:45 pm
Looks like Escobar is tired of hitting into DP’s!
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
7:45 pm
Yes, About Damn Time We get some Breaks!!! We have been hitting wit bad luck all season!
T-BALL FOR SCHAFER!!!!!
May 4th, 2009
7:46 pm
swing and a miss
DirtyYuni
May 4th, 2009
7:46 pm
I like John Maine. A lot.
T-BALL FOR SCHAFER!!!!!
May 4th, 2009
7:47 pm
good going chipper really hit that one hard! we need to sign him another year
northbeach Scott
May 4th, 2009
7:47 pm
Nice crowd for a Mets game-not. My goodness, looks like less than 20,000. That is sad. Ought to be some good deals on StubHub.
Steve from OH
May 4th, 2009
7:47 pm
T-Hawkin’, do we have to go over the definition of smallball again, lol? That’s just solid fundamentals right there. Love it.
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
7:48 pm
N Nine-
I am a total city girl, but I think I’d rather sever my own limb then live in Vegas…and those guys wouldn’t have noticed if a naked Angelina Jolie had walked in and sat down in one of their laps…did I mention they were from Chicago?
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
7:48 pm
We Finally got Javy some Runs to play with. Hope he goes into criuse control now…
For some reason this Mets lineup is missing its swagger it had the last 2 years, maybe because of the 2 collapses in September…
3k's = schafer
May 4th, 2009
7:48 pm
we need 4 more, javier wull give up at least 4 in one inning and the bullpen 2 more
propp
May 4th, 2009
7:48 pm
it’s a shame the guy playing small ball will be out of the line up in a week. not saying i dont want McCann back, but come on’, is it too late for Ross to play 2B?
northbeach Scott
May 4th, 2009
7:50 pm
I must confess, I was really against the Vazquez acquisition at the time, but I am beginning to think I was wrong. Vazquez is a real gamer, as evidenced by his recent pitching performances, his 3 sacrifice hit effort a couple of weeks ago, and this last AB that put the ball in play. He really picked up Schafer.
Interested Observer
May 4th, 2009
7:50 pm
I wonder what Will Ohman thinks of Oliver Perez getting $10 million this year to be a situational lefty.
Bobby's Cox
May 4th, 2009
7:51 pm
I’m a HUGE advocate for some small ball, but that play by Ross was NOT small ball.
OH Steve is right, just fundamentals there by Ross. Good things happen when u put the ball in play and play hard.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
7:52 pm
Steve From Oh, Love it as well, Not being a Pessimist but We had some luck that Inning, I thought we were done after the Schafer K…
Man Castillo looks Way outta shape…Maybe he was on HGH for a good while when he stole all those bases with Florida
BravesFanChris24
May 4th, 2009
7:52 pm
Vazquez
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
7:53 pm
Joe And Chip…I hated Sunflower seeds when I played Through High School and College…
Tobacco is worse…
3k's = schafer
May 4th, 2009
7:54 pm
jose on.. steal 2nd, …..
Frank from KS
May 4th, 2009
7:56 pm
cabravesfan
I wouldn’t notice either…. ;>) (Lol)
Fyi for those who don’t have Peachtree….ESPN is showing the Peachtree feed right now for a bit.
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
7:56 pm
Notes from the 2nd inning:
I would like thank David Wright for being the strikeout king of the NLE, I would like to thank Vazqy for a quick inning, Jeffy for rediscovering how to hit like a major leaguer, Maine for the walks, Frank for signing Ross, Ross for knowing more fundamentals than half the team, Castillio for the juggling clinic, Kelly for taking a walk, and Yunel for not grounding out.
Go Braves!
3k's = schafer
May 4th, 2009
7:56 pm
murphy on… beltran 3 run shot
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
7:56 pm
I called It Reyes Was gonna steal a base tonight and get into Javy’s head, which he is doing right now…
Tom O'Hawke
May 4th, 2009
7:56 pm
… and those guys wouldn’t have noticed if a naked Angelina Jolie had walked in and sat down in one of their laps
cabravesfan — There isn’t enough alcohol, in the state of Nevada, for me not to notice that. They must’ve been gay. (not that there’s anything wrong with that)
Smyrna Jim
May 4th, 2009
7:57 pm
Tomahawkin’ – funny you said that – they made me realize that I miss sunflower seeds from my softball days (which I haven’t gotten back to since moving here). I also appreciated their comments on the umpire doing one at a time.
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
7:57 pm
Braves are on ESPN right now..WHY IDK
McFann Ô
May 4th, 2009
7:57 pm
You have to catch the friggin’ ball, Escobar!! Gyah!
kirkinga
May 4th, 2009
7:58 pm
There go the Mets giving up outs by stealing.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
7:58 pm
Chipper Go Out There and Settle Javy Down Since You’re the leader now…
3k's = schafer
May 4th, 2009
7:58 pm
this is the big inning for vazques
Frank from KS
May 4th, 2009
7:59 pm
bravos2249
ESPN is showing other game action because it’s raining in NY keeping the Yanks/R.Sox game in a rain delay.
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
8:00 pm
Tom-
nope, just never took their eyes off the game (except to open the beers that kept appearing from under one of their seats…)
AmazinsAgain09
May 4th, 2009
8:00 pm
Javy gonna give up 2 or 3.
Smyrna Jim
May 4th, 2009
8:00 pm
Way to work him, Javy!!!
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
8:00 pm
Smyrna Jim
I always Chewed Fruitroll-up and it looked lie tobacco when you make it into a ball and put it in your mouth…
3k's = schafer
May 4th, 2009
8:01 pm
ha-ha;ha
Rob from SC
May 4th, 2009
8:01 pm
Schafer’s wrist must really be hurting
TnBrian
May 4th, 2009
8:02 pm
I don’t even think I could throw that good of a curveball that Vaz. just threw Beltran on the PS2 game.
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
8:03 pm
cabraves – did anyone answer you on the weather? I think the rain is going to hold off but it is humid as hell tonight. I was soaked with sweat after I ran and I only did 3 miles. We’ve only had a few really humid days thus far but it’ll be back with a vengeance soon enough. I’d hate to pitch in a polyester uniform for any long innings, like Vaz just did, but they’re used to it, I guess.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
8:03 pm
Whoa Check Out Those Sorostitues…! That’s the only reason to even go to the games right now, lol
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
8:05 pm
A chest burger? Seriously Chip, shut up and let Joe talk.
BravesFanChris24
May 4th, 2009
8:05 pm
Brandon Jones looks a bit like Renteria at the plate. Resemblance wise.
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
8:05 pm
Run Heap Run-
Humid I can handle (easy for me to say, huh?) I just don’t want a rain delay!
Smyrna Jim
May 4th, 2009
8:05 pm
GA smilimg!!!!!
David O'Brien
May 4th, 2009
8:05 pm
Just to clarify on McCann: He’s playing at Rome on Wednesday not because Gwinnett has a morning game (they don’t) but because you can’t use the DH for Triple-A games between two NL teams. He’s going to DH Wednesday for Rome, then catch Thursday for Gwinnett.
At least that’s my understanding. I’ll clarify once more if that’s not correct.
Smyrna Jim
May 4th, 2009
8:06 pm
Or smiling!
N Nine
May 4th, 2009
8:06 pm
That Vazquez trade is looking brilliant! Did you guys see smallbridge on sunday night baseball, Jon and Joe were making fun of him!
Cabravesfan, Sounds like the guys were boarderline obnoxious. I have never been there, I’d agree sunny CA would be ideal. Plus you have some mountains close by(for boarding), went to LAX to mammoth two years ago, so I feel you on that Looong drive! I’m actually currently setting up a move to Colorado soon.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
8:06 pm
ChestBurger, LOL, Why Is everyone Hating On Chip…? At least we are not stuck with Blow-Buck…
Loaf Garret on a blackberry from the dugout
May 4th, 2009
8:07 pm
Yes that’s right. I can’t wait to get back out there. Did y’all see me on tv just now? Hi Braves Fans! See you tomorrow! DOB tell my buddy Bowman I said hey! See? I’m working on my friendliness.
Wayne in Utah
May 4th, 2009
8:07 pm
Looks like the 40 or so stolen bases the Rays have this year have really pushed them into first place!
Wait a minute, you say their record is worse than the Braves??? How can that be??? They have 40 some stolen bases…..
McFann Ô
May 4th, 2009
8:10 pm
Thanks for the clarification, Chief!
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
8:10 pm
N Nine-
They actually amused the hell out of me
The drive from Vegas is usually only about 4 hours, which is not bad…but with Sunday traffic, the weather, and CalTrans f*ing up the highway it was bad.
Vegas is great for about 3 or 4 days…I’d take the beach over just about anywhere, any day:)
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
8:11 pm
3 Walks and 6K’s for Javy He will probably be out after the 6th…We need the BlowPen to get it’s A..s serious tonight…
N Nine
May 4th, 2009
8:13 pm
Mets look lost as a unit, wonder how long Jerry Manuel will last. I’m guessing September
N Nine
May 4th, 2009
8:15 pm
LOL at Peachtree’s jeff johnson (JJ)
kirkinga
May 4th, 2009
8:16 pm
Who said stealing bases will put a team in first place?
Speed disrupts, speed is good in football, basketball, tennis, soccer, horseracing, NASCAR, track and field, swimming, skating, and other sports but not baseball? Because the numbers tell us so?
Okay, let’s keep waiting for those 3-run homers.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
8:17 pm
The Next 10 Days are gonna be a Test…If we Get Clowned like we have over the last 2 weeks we are gonna be hanging with the Nats…This Offense needs to get straightened out ASAP!
David O'Brien
May 4th, 2009
8:17 pm
Tomahawkin: Castillo had hip surgery after the 2002 season (his last big steals year), and has had other injuries since. He’s not nearly the speedster he was back in the day, in his early years with the Marlins.
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
8:18 pm
Oh hell no. Robbery.
KC
May 4th, 2009
8:18 pm
Chip… shut the hell up. The OTHER guys caught the ball. NOT the Braves. There’s no need to sound so excited about that on a Braves broadcast.
Smyrna Jim
May 4th, 2009
8:18 pm
It’s kind of slow here tonight – are the negative masses waiting for the Braves to fall behind?
Heath (Cleveland)
May 4th, 2009
8:20 pm
Does NY pinch-hit for Main here in the 5th? Thoughts?
Rob from SC
May 4th, 2009
8:21 pm
For everyone that bashes Jordan Schafer for stiking out, remember he is a 22 year old who only played 1/2 a season above A ball. He will learn. Baseball is about making adjustments. The kid has done a lot of positive things so far this season.
Doc Holiday
May 4th, 2009
8:23 pm
Heath……..I dont think so…………their BP needs rest…………I think they keep going with maine
Heath (Cleveland)
May 4th, 2009
8:24 pm
…guess not.
N8
May 4th, 2009
8:25 pm
Wayne, while I appreciate your sarcasm, don’t fall into the trap that the other bozos have fallen into on the ole’ blog.
The SB totals don’t tell the whole story. Not only is this team not capable of stealing bases, they seem to not be capable of playing consistently “fundamental” baseball (there you go folks, I waited until May 4th to drop the “f” bomb). Go figure. That’s been their “staple” since the core of this team has come up since 2005.
Who’s fault is it? The players? Or the coaches who are guiding them? I’ll go with a little of both.
But it’s the utter lack of power (or should I say udder), that the lack of speed actually shows up. If this team could hit HR, not a single person (even Coach) would be bringing up the speed). On the flip-side, if they could manufacture runs, by running amuck on teams, nobody would be pizzing and moaning about the lack of power.
Unfortunately, this team doesn’t do either very well.
In reality, this team could use a little of both. A leadoff hitter that can get on base, disrupt the pitchers and spark the lineup would do wonders, ALONG WITH adding a real cleanup hitter to the order.
So, the way I see it, this lineup is only 3/4 of the way “complete” (and that’s when McCann is in there – without Mac, it’s a different story).
But in the end, if we had a guy that was stealing bases, he would simply be getting stranded on 2nd and 3rd, instead of 1st base.
But the REST of the speed element that basestealers would bring to the table would certainly change the lineup.
One of these days Wren will put a complete roster together.
Smyrna Jim
May 4th, 2009
8:26 pm
Way to go, Javy – good half (plus a little) game!
Heath (Cleveland)
May 4th, 2009
8:26 pm
If JV can have a relatively easy inning in the 6th…would have a very good chance to pitch 7 full innings. He is doing well tonight.
Steve from OH
May 4th, 2009
8:27 pm
BA put out an article about the Myrtle Beach Pelicans the other day, with the usual stuff about Heyward/Freeman, and some of the usual power/K’s talk about Johnson. But, they passed on a little bit about two under-the-radar Pelican players, 3B Donnell Linares and C Matt Kennelly:
“The 25-year-old Linares, who signed last year after defecting from Cuba, was off to a slow start at the plate but impressed the Braves with his defensive abilities in spring training. He, too, has above-average power and had a pair of home runs among his first seven hits. Kennelly, a native of Australia, has a smooth swing with good power and polished skills behind the plate, particularly for a 20-year-old who was a pitcher and corner infielder as an amateur.”
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
8:27 pm
Yeah Jordan will learn, he’s a rookie. He’s already more patient than a lot of veterans on the team.
Wayne in Utah
May 4th, 2009
8:27 pm
Kirk
I love speed in a lineup. I just don’t think it is the one deciding factor for an offense. More important to get on base. Gotta steal first, then worry about second and third.
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
8:28 pm
Yeah Kelly don’t waste any time up there or anything.
keylargo
May 4th, 2009
8:28 pm
Smyrna Jim – I actually went back to see if the 14 year olds’ favorite word had been used in the last 15 minutes and I could not find a single example of Braves ____K, BC _____KS, Kelly _____KS. I don’t think they can complete a sentence without that word.
They have no desire to be positive and cheer the Braves. Only to find fault, blame and criticize others. Their Mommies must really be mean.
KC
May 4th, 2009
8:29 pm
Yeah, way to go KJ. When you’re struggling, you should ALWAYS swing at the first pitch you see.
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
8:30 pm
If TP is teaching patience at the plate as Joe just said, Esco is picking up on it, wouldn’t you TP bashers say?
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
8:31 pm
Damnit! Bring Back the Old Ozzy For Chipper, I’m tired of hearing Trick Daddy’s/Lil Jon “Let’s Go for Him
Crazy Train is Chipper’s Signature…
Smyrna Jim
May 4th, 2009
8:32 pm
Yeah, great call.
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
8:32 pm
He’s been using the Trick Daddy/Lil Jon version for about 3 years.
NO WAY he was not out. Booooooo
Stephen
May 4th, 2009
8:33 pm
Great call there, blue.
Jeff321
May 4th, 2009
8:33 pm
Looks to me like Escobar slipped in there at second..
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
8:33 pm
ummm…he looked safe to me
Wayne in Utah
May 4th, 2009
8:33 pm
Steve
Thanks for the scouting update on the Pelican players. Both sound like they may have some upside.
kirkinga
May 4th, 2009
8:34 pm
Well at least they tried to steal. Now keep at it.
N Nine
May 4th, 2009
8:35 pm
So we finally get a SB and ump blows it!
vabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
8:35 pm
I’m watching on gamecast and even though escobar was thrown out I like him trying it
KC
May 4th, 2009
8:36 pm
N8, if the Braves can get McCann and Anderson healthy, and get KJ ironed out (and OUT of the friggin’ leadoff spot!!!!)… I think this lineup will be just fine.
We haven’t seen this lineup’s potential, with the exception of the opening series in Phili.
If the lineup is reasonably healthy, and each member of the starting lineup is performing up to realistic expectations… the lineup could finish near or at the top of the league in team average, on base percentage, doubles, and hitting with RISP.
And if everyone’s performing up to their capability, they’ll hit some homeruns. Won’t be anywhere near the league lead in that category, but not at all power deficient.
Not saying all of that WILL happen, but it very well could. IF we have a little luck in the health dept.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
8:36 pm
Run Heap Run
Yeah, He’s used that Trick Daddy/Lil Jon version since 05…I heard that song so much at parties when It came out and I’m still tired of hearing it…
Chipper needs to come out to the Ozzy …
His Crazy train intro was the best
nolie
May 4th, 2009
8:36 pm
Who said stealing bases will put a team in first place? (KIRK)
nobody with any sense. buit speed is great in baseball too, as long as the skills are also there to make best use of the tools.
vazques 140 pitches
May 4th, 2009
8:37 pm
get the bullpen goin bob.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
8:38 pm
Damnit!!! That Ball Carried! 410 footer, Here We Go!
Stephen
May 4th, 2009
8:38 pm
Javy, Javy, Javy.
vazques 140 pitches
May 4th, 2009
8:38 pm
is better this, than 1 and 2nd nobody out. then is a never ending inning
Rob from SC
May 4th, 2009
8:39 pm
I think he loses focus
vazques 140 pitches
May 4th, 2009
8:39 pm
3 or 5 more hits in a row in this inning
Heath (Cleveland)
May 4th, 2009
8:39 pm
ugh
McFann Ô
May 4th, 2009
8:39 pm
Dangit! I guess Beltran had a few biscuits for breakfast.
David O'Brien
May 4th, 2009
8:39 pm
That’s 11 homers and 30 RBI for Beltran in 37 games at Turner Field.
Stephen
May 4th, 2009
8:40 pm
You suck, javy.
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
8:40 pm
Dun Dun Dun
vazques 140 pitches
May 4th, 2009
8:40 pm
that’s it
JR
May 4th, 2009
8:40 pm
woo!!!! nice
Jeff321
May 4th, 2009
8:40 pm
WTF are you waiting for Cox? We’re losing now you jackass!
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
8:40 pm
good lord what just happened?
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
8:40 pm
Anders makes an appearance in 3……2…….
Wayne in Utah
May 4th, 2009
8:40 pm
N8
No worries. I was just poking a little fun at our “speed” guys. Agree 100% with your last post.
What’s the story (Steve in OH, you have the data, I am certain) on Matt Young up in Gwinnett? Is he close enough to give a shot?
David O'Brien
May 4th, 2009
8:40 pm
Wow, then Wright hits one to almost the exact same spot. That little pocket of fans next to the batter’s eye in CF is getting more activity than the Braves and Vazquez would prefer.
McFann Ô
May 4th, 2009
8:40 pm
Whoops…they must be serving biscuits in the Mets clubhouse…
Heath (Cleveland)
May 4th, 2009
8:40 pm
This…..is not good.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
8:40 pm
Dammit, Javy Getting Slapped, Another 410 Footer, Looks Like we got these Guys hot Now, Bring on the Blow=pen…
Dammit!!!
Rob from SC
May 4th, 2009
8:41 pm
And you all hate on Reyes
vazques 140 pitches
May 4th, 2009
8:41 pm
ha-ha
Stephen
May 4th, 2009
8:41 pm
Rofl, Mcfann
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
8:41 pm
Jeff321-
what exactly would you like him to do? Javy was cruising…
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
8:41 pm
LOL McFann LOL
Rob from SC
May 4th, 2009
8:41 pm
I think we all see where Ozzie Guillen was coming from
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
8:42 pm
If David Wright’s Wheel House is down and in WHY DID ROSS CALL FOR THE PITCH THERE?
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
8:42 pm
Not Jeff Bennett, please not Jeff Bennett.
AmazinsAgain09
May 4th, 2009
8:42 pm
AHA. Here’s that multi-run inning I was expecting. Javy can not go a game without having at least one or two of them. Big stuff, little brain. GO METS !
The Lammer
May 4th, 2009
8:42 pm
lol ONLY in atlanta..jesuschrist this team is an embarrasment
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
8:42 pm
Javy’s Fastball has been up all inning…”Not Good” He spotted it well through the first 5 innings
David O'Brien
May 4th, 2009
8:43 pm
Beltran’s hit more homers at Turner Field than anywhere except his home ballparks in Kansas City and NY.
No truth to the rumor he will name his next son Turner Beltran.
(Thank you, thank you. I’ll be here all week.)
TnBrian
May 4th, 2009
8:43 pm
Met trolls will be here shortly
keylargo
May 4th, 2009
8:43 pm
There’s a 14 year old with a mean mommy @ 8:40.
Jeff321
May 4th, 2009
8:43 pm
Cabravesfan – Yank him before we start losing. Its not a crime to pull a pitcher before giving up the lead.
Oh no! We Suck A Gain!!!!
May 4th, 2009
8:43 pm
its like we dont want to win. why?
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
8:44 pm
But to tell y’all the honest truth a 3-4 game should not be hard for our team but it is, that’s the problem.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
8:44 pm
My Ear Is Still Ringing after That Shot that Wright hit…! As Much as I hate the Mets That Shot by Wright Was Pretty
And Fck Blow-Tran he still is Overpaid and Overrated!
JEFF
May 4th, 2009
8:45 pm
as soon murphy led off with a single thats when the pitching coach should get off his butt and call someone in the bullpen.. FOR THE third day in a row.. the braves have a lead by 2 or more and we cant hold a stinkin lead…… great coaching and managing.. sit on ur ass cox and mcdowell.. congrats to the braves coaching staff for another pathetic managing job..
Tom O'Hawke
May 4th, 2009
8:45 pm
Uh-oh. The blog fireworks fuse has been lit. If you’re all smart, you’ll head for cover.
kirkinga
May 4th, 2009
8:45 pm
Looks like the 40 or so stolen bases the Rays have this year have really pushed them into first place!
that would be somebody, though certainly not nobody with any sense
buit speed is great in baseball too, as long as the skills are also there to make best use of the tools
But not everyone sees it that way. Some would like to redefine the game to where the use of speed to steal bases is somehow “smaller” than using it as a feature or tool of the offense.
semiballcoach
May 4th, 2009
8:45 pm
of course if cox pulls him with a lead and the bullpen blows it, then he shoulda left him in
MFin04
May 4th, 2009
8:45 pm
Wouldn’t it be nice if someone on our team could hit a homerun? Too bad. This anemic offense is still anemic. Bobby continues to throw the same guys out there and get the same results. Two hits so far in the game…not going to do. Hope the bats show up sometime soon.
Oh no! We Suck A Gain!!!!
May 4th, 2009
8:45 pm
good one dob…. not really. but at least you will be here all week.
Steve from OH
May 4th, 2009
8:46 pm
Short little guy with no power and a lot of speed, but a good OBP in minor league duty. Utility player at best, I think.
Smyrna Jim
May 4th, 2009
8:46 pm
There ya go, Key Largo
I take full responsibility for this – I took the dog for a walk, and apparently my defensive ability was not as good on the radio as it was on TV.
Rob from SC
May 4th, 2009
8:46 pm
How does he look bad so fast, then look good again real quick
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
8:46 pm
Offense, Come On! I guess they Quit after getting some well due breaks in the second…
McFann Ô
May 4th, 2009
8:46 pm
Stephen, Run Heap Run–
Thanks!
Wayne in Utah
May 4th, 2009
8:46 pm
Jeff321
The guy in the bullpen has to be up and ready, before he can be brought in.
Here comes the cryin’………
vazques 140 pitches
May 4th, 2009
8:46 pm
go meeeeets……..
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
8:47 pm
Jeff321-
yes because that’s good strategy…He pitches 5 excellent innings, gives up a home run, nobody warming up in the pen because there is no reason to have anyone up, but let’s pull him just in case he might give up the lead…
Jake W.
May 4th, 2009
8:47 pm
Wow, a 1 run lead and all of a sudden the Mets have their swagger back. The question for the Mets is not whether they can come back its whether they can hold the lead, right? I know the Braves offense sucks but their pitchers need to know they are able to be picked up sometimes.
Stephen
May 4th, 2009
8:47 pm
No, don’t take the camera of the chicks with the boob jobs
Steve from OH
May 4th, 2009
8:47 pm
Speaking of Gwinnett, Todd Redmond throwing 7 shutout innings with 2 hits, no walks, and 6K.
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
8:48 pm
Right now I’d rather have Omar or Prado in than Kelly whose walked in one AB and seen a total of 2 pitches in the other 2.
David O'Brien
May 4th, 2009
8:48 pm
Wright’s hit 23 homers against the Braves. His next-highest against any team is 15 vs. Philly.
Moby Grape
May 4th, 2009
8:48 pm
Cabravesfan – Yank him before we start losing. Its not a crime to pull a pitcher before giving up the lead. (JEFF321)
well you see Jeffy it takes a bit to warm up a pitcher and Javy was cruising till the wheels fell off in about 6 minutes. But hell, pull him anyway and let the reliever warm up while pitching the game. Why the hell not? Maybe we can start a whole new trend. Sigh.
maine santana...
May 4th, 2009
8:48 pm
3 up 3 down
MFin04
May 4th, 2009
8:49 pm
It’s sad but the only way this team has really scored runs is on walks or errors. No legit runs in a loonnng while. Got to get something going here. Lets get Javy a win!
Mets2009WSchamps
May 4th, 2009
8:49 pm
TOLD you guys you would lose!!! So sorry to hand the Braves their 3 straight loss. You guys Suck. Get ready for the sweep tomorrow! HAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHHA
McFann Ô
May 4th, 2009
8:50 pm
MFin04 Wouldn’t it be nice if someone on our team could hit a homerun?
Sounds like a Beach Boys song:
Wouldn’t it be nice if we hit homers
Then we wouldn’t have to lose again
And wouldn’t it be nice if we ate biscuits
Then our balls would land in the bullpen…
OK…that’s it for the biscuit thing…sorry, it was the only rhyme I could think of on the spot…
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
8:50 pm
When Wright hits puberty he might think about naming his kids Turner?
Stephen
May 4th, 2009
8:50 pm
Nice, Jeff, get that runner over.
StingerSplash
May 4th, 2009
8:50 pm
What’s worse — two hits off a pitcher whose ERA is close enough to being an admissible SAT score for a football player at Alabama or just being a team composed mostly of spare parts?
I’m watching Ovechkin vs. Crosby instead. At least there’s some mystery as to how that will turn out. With this, there is none. This is a team that should aspire to be .500. It is not a championship caliber team, even with its starting pitching. It just isn’t. And I consider myself an optimistic Braves fan — but all I can think of is Sgt. Highway to his new squad in “Heartbreak Ridge”: “The Marine Corps is looking for a few good men. You ain’t it.”
Maybe they’ll get it turned around. Maybe.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
8:50 pm
Frenchie, WTF is That! Dumb Baseball Rings Its Head!!!
maine santana...
May 4th, 2009
8:51 pm
franchy…. same frenchy
Mets2009WSchamps
May 4th, 2009
8:52 pm
Just thought I’d let you guys know making love to my David Wright fat head was amazing. Oh, David, show me that gold glove baby.
Wayne in Utah
May 4th, 2009
8:52 pm
Steve
Good to see Redmond join the club up in Gwinnett. I think he had struggled up until tonight.
I would sure love to see Medlen get a shot in ATL. I like that kid’s make up.
MFin04
May 4th, 2009
8:52 pm
Casey K came around first looking for a double….never seen him with that much speed. The dude can run, lol.
1995
May 4th, 2009
8:52 pm
BRAVES ANNOUNCERS!!!!!!!!!! Dont you know if you talk about something long enough it will jinx us? They would not shut up about when will the Mets turn it around and they did that inning. Thanks guys.
leif garret anderson
May 4th, 2009
8:52 pm
Why does joker francouer insist on swinging at 1st pitch head high balls?
lets go ross
May 4th, 2009
8:52 pm
we need feliciano in the game… mets old bullpen
TnBrian
May 4th, 2009
8:53 pm
MFin04, yeah, and it’s really been exposed today as how our guys just can’t blow a team out without the opposing pitcher walking the park. I think things will change with Mac coming back though.
BAD BAD FRENCHY!
Wayne in Utah
May 4th, 2009
8:54 pm
If Bobby had just had ESPN (extra sensory perception network), he would have known to have pulled Javy before that inning!
Jeff321
May 4th, 2009
8:54 pm
Gotta love the bunt by Ross.
Wayne in Utah
May 4th, 2009
8:54 pm
McFann
You gotta gift!
lets go ross
May 4th, 2009
8:54 pm
pinch hit for schafer cox!!!!!!!!!!
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
8:54 pm
Dammnit, We Hit With Bad Luck!!! Tip Your Hat to D. Wright! BullShyt!
Rob from SC
May 4th, 2009
8:55 pm
Oh boy, Schafer with runners on base
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
8:55 pm
well no runs this inning
Rob from SC
May 4th, 2009
8:55 pm
1
strike out
May 4th, 2009
8:55 pm
3 swings…
leif garret anderson
May 4th, 2009
8:55 pm
Stingersplash;
Great movie!
strike out
May 4th, 2009
8:55 pm
he touched one at least.
Tom O'Hawke
May 4th, 2009
8:55 pm
McFann — That Beach Boys song is too old for me. How the heck are you familiar with it?
Schafer's Wafers
May 4th, 2009
8:55 pm
Here we go testing ol Steves theory here. He says we shouldnt have bunted there lets see if he is right.
McFann Ô
May 4th, 2009
8:56 pm
Wayne–
Haha…thanks!
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
8:56 pm
Tomorrow isn’t a day game is it?
TnBrian
May 4th, 2009
8:56 pm
Mets09WC, if you’re really not a little kid, how can you call yourself a real adult? No class and trashy=MUTT fans. Anders is ok sometimes…
kirkinga
May 4th, 2009
8:56 pm
Good idea by Ross. Didn’t work out, but nice to see.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
8:56 pm
Overaggressiveness by Frenchy, Bad Luck By D-Ross Equals no runs FCK!!!
wow
May 4th, 2009
8:56 pm
wowowowowowowowowowowowowowowowowow
Jeff321
May 4th, 2009
8:57 pm
I like Schafer a lot, but he really needs to stop swinging for the fences.. It seems to me he’d have a better chance to get on (since he’s missing the ball completely most of the time) by just laying down a damn bunt!
Rob from SC
May 4th, 2009
8:57 pm
he must get tired of striking out
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
8:57 pm
Lose A Frenchy, GAIN A FRENCHY. ( Previously known as Lose an Andruw, Gain an Andruw.)
David O'Brien
May 4th, 2009
8:57 pm
That’s four runners left in scoring position by Schafer on two strikeouts tonight.
Smyrna Jim
May 4th, 2009
8:57 pm
I’m starting to regret my leap onto the Schafer bandwagon a week before the season, when I had been thinking all spring some time in AAA would be good seasoning.
JR
May 4th, 2009
8:57 pm
WHOA!!!
Schafer…..swung…..and missed….at a fastball???
NO.
Frank from KS
May 4th, 2009
8:57 pm
Hey Mets2009WSchamps
Ya know, I wouldn’t be happy being a fan of a team of CHOKERS..*cough, cough*.
(Lol)
So why don’t you just put a sock in it, buddy.
Steve from OH
May 4th, 2009
8:57 pm
Nice to see?? You like to see your slow-arse catcher bunting in that spot? C’mon man, that was the last thing he shoulda done…ugh.
Chop It Up All-star
May 4th, 2009
8:57 pm
Wow, maybe it just feels like Jordan S. is up to bat everytime we have a big inning going. And maybe it just seems like he strikes out every time.
Wayne in Utah
May 4th, 2009
8:58 pm
Fajita time!
Later folks.
Go get ‘em Braves!
Necromancer
May 4th, 2009
8:58 pm
Jordan Schaefer is this year’s Jeff Francouer. I wonder how much more FO’s going to put up with his consistent non-productivity before he’s sent back down?
I don’t think he’s hopeless, but he definitely has somethings he needs to work on.
coxx- idiot
May 4th, 2009
8:58 pm
when is he going to pinch hit for schafer???
Jeff321
May 4th, 2009
8:58 pm
Heap – the Braves play a day game Thursday @ 12:10.
Smyrna Jim
May 4th, 2009
8:58 pm
Jack Bauer time – I promise, no spoilers, cabravesfan.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
8:58 pm
Most teams have looked foward to facing the Mets Bullpen, But I’m calling it that the Braves Hitters will make every Mets Reliever look like Mariano Rivera…And that is if the Blow-pen doesn’t spot the mets some insurance first…
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
8:58 pm
….he must read the blog.
McFann Ô
May 4th, 2009
8:58 pm
Tom O’Hawke–
I bought a CD of theirs at Barnes & Noble. Sounds of Summer–it’s got 30 songs on one CD! I’ve liked the Beach Boys for a long time–used to hear ‘em on an Oldies station.
The CD rocks, BTW. Most of the songs I’d never heard, but I like ‘em a lot, now!
Mets2009WSchamps
May 4th, 2009
8:59 pm
The Braves are gonna lose. Slice it anyway you like, but the Mets are winning this one. So sad too bad! HAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA
TnBrian
May 4th, 2009
8:59 pm
I ain’t mad at Schafer…the rest of the VETRAN lineup isn’t getting the job done most of the time and he is being exposed for being a rookie with an apparant achey wrist. Chill on the kid.
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
8:59 pm
Thanks Jeff. I hate day games. Hate.
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
8:59 pm
Smyrna Jim-
appreciate that!
Schafer's Wafers
May 4th, 2009
8:59 pm
Steve,
Actually in that situation I want to see Ross hit. If schafer had been up in Ross’s spot I would have liked the sacrifice.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
9:00 pm
6 Walks and only one of them scored, WTF!!! Only The AAA Braves offense would go out like that…
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
9:00 pm
6 walks and only 1 scored….that’s not Javy’s fault. Giving up 2 homers is but…
StingerSplash
May 4th, 2009
9:00 pm
I’m following this on MLB.com’s Gameday, so can someone explain to me why Ross bunted with runners on first and second and one out, with strikeout-prone Schafer on deck and the pitcher’s spot in the hole? WTF was that? Why put your swing-and-miss can’t-miss prospect in a spot with two out where a strikeout absolutely kills your rally and you have the pitcher’s spot on deck after that? I just don’t get that at all. Let Ross swing away in that situation. Don’t give a fading pitcher an easy out with another possible easy out to follow. WTF!
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
9:00 pm
Run Heap Run-
so do I but at least it will give me something to do at work
Cracke Jack
May 4th, 2009
9:00 pm
Gorkys Hernandez time. What an f-ing bust…
pinkygonzales
May 4th, 2009
9:00 pm
i know there are concerns about stunting his growth and all, but the fact of the matter is that Jordan Schafer has proven that he cannot hit a straight fastball. is it heresy to say bring back Blanco? and then start the race anew between him and Hernandez?
Jake W.
May 4th, 2009
9:00 pm
What’s puzzling about this offense is you knew there would not be much power, but these are suppose to be average guys. It hurts not having McCann and i’m not quite sure what we would be getting out of Anderson but both of those guys are suppose to be average guys plus power with McCann. No Speed and no Power, so how about working to your strengths. Work the count, make the pitcher work. Then try to get a pitch you like. With such a good hitter like Chipper Jones on your team you would think some of this would rub off on these guys. Chipper works the count (when they pitch to him) to get a better pitch to hit. You can get a hit on a ball but its even easier to get one on a strike.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
9:00 pm
The 6 walks they were talking about Was on J. Maine’s Behalf
TP
May 4th, 2009
9:00 pm
first andrew,then frenchy and now schafer.. can he get one fixed!!!!!
how can he keep this job. i’m serius
Steve from OH
May 4th, 2009
9:01 pm
Yeah, if Schafer is up it’s ok to try bunting (for a hit, not sacrifice), but with Ross…stupid. But we’re doing the fundamentals, right? Now Reyes bunts one in the air…free out. Thanks, Jose!
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
9:01 pm
Javy came back out? Damn how many pitches is he on?
nolie
May 4th, 2009
9:02 pm
But not everyone sees it that way. Some would like to redefine the game to where the use of speed to steal bases is somehow “smaller” than using it as a feature or tool of the offense (KIRK)
I’m sorry, but I just don’t think that’s really true Kirk. A lot of that claim here is Coach putting up straw men to knock over. Even guys who are not believers in small ball are aware that speed is an asset, they just don’t believe in stealing as a regular strategy, not the same thing at all.
Most of them are reacting to oversimplifications about “speed kills” and such. Steve and most of the others have said that they think speed is an asset, but not enough to make up for lack of skills in guys like Pierre.
IMO most of the foolish statements are coming from coach who like always is looking for attention with his simplistic statements.
As a scout speed is always prized when you find it along with the necessary other abilities. Extreme speed is rare. Very high OBP ability rare. It is really rare to find both in the same player. Since they usually aren’t both there it becomes a balancing act to evaluate which is better in a given position.
Years ago speed ruled and OBP was largely ignored, and for the most part scoring was lower..not just for those reasons, but that was a part of it. Modern analysts look to OBP as more important is only one is present, but all would be thrilled to have both.
Bummer about the game so far.
Jeff321
May 4th, 2009
9:03 pm
Over 103 pitches
Wolfman
May 4th, 2009
9:03 pm
Schafer needs to sit out games while he is working on his swing. His strike outs are a shame. He cannot even foul off fastballs. He does not get on base, so he wont steal any bases and how many balls does he catch in the outfield Infante or anyone else wont catch? Too bad our only backup is Blanco and he does not have a good season so far in AAA. He is so bad right now, that Vasquez gets the ball in play and he does not.
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
9:03 pm
Run Heap Run-
according to gameday he’s at 109
njbraves
May 4th, 2009
9:03 pm
Schaefer might be a nice player some day, but he has no business in the majors right now. You have to be able ti hit 90mph fastballs right down the middle. And you gotta love Met fans…all their team does is choke it up every year, yet they still talk smack. Braves might be heading nowhere, but neither are the Mets. Nce job giving Perez $36 million…LOL
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
9:04 pm
Tomahawkin
I meant it in the sense of the runs we scored sorry I didn’t make it clear. I meant it’s not his fault we have got 6 walks and only 1 has scored, it is his fault that he’s given up 2 homers but still 6 walks for us and only 1 has scored that’s not helping a guy out.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
9:04 pm
One Bad Inning and 4 runs…Most teams that’s a halfway decent start, but with this offense and their inability to hit whn it matters, plus the Mets bullpen, equals another wasted 7 inning performance by Javy…
Jake W.
May 4th, 2009
9:05 pm
Well Schafer can’t really take a day off because who is our backup centerfielder? Can’t be Diaz and I don’t think B Jones is. Would it be Frenchy or Infante?
Wayne in Utah
May 4th, 2009
9:05 pm
In for a penny, in for a pound. The kid will come around, just have some patience.
It’s a marathon, not a sprint.
So How Long
May 4th, 2009
9:05 pm
Losses in April and May count the same as losses in September and October. So how long do you go with Shafer in these situations before you finally pull the plug and get someone else there? I was praying he would pinch hit Infante and let him play center. But I knew better. Bobby would swear after the horse pulling his wagon was laying dead in the road that it was just resting.
Now to the next issue. Is what Joe and Chip saying about Shafer’s wrist true? It’s so bad he can’t take extra bp? Saying that he can’t really get the bat around on ANYTHING due to that? If that’s true then letting him hit in game situations like yesterday and today is pure madness!
mets gogogogo
May 4th, 2009
9:05 pm
vazques. lol
njbraves
May 4th, 2009
9:05 pm
Why is Javy still in this game….serves up another to Beltran as i type…unreal
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
9:05 pm
Thanks cabraves, I dont keep gameday up. Looks like he stayed out there 1 pitch too long..
So How Long
May 4th, 2009
9:05 pm
And while we’re at it, how long do you go with Vazquez?
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
9:05 pm
That FCKING Blow-Tran, Gawd He Kills Us, Another 410 Footer, Game Over!!!
Javy Getting Slapped Get Him Out NOW!
BravesFanChris24
May 4th, 2009
9:05 pm
Stephen
May 4th, 2009
9:05 pm
Should’ve pulled him 15 minutes ago.
Chop It Up All-star
May 4th, 2009
9:05 pm
Ouch, reminds of when Beltran came in here with Houston.
mets
May 4th, 2009
9:06 pm
not enough offense and no aces in your team
McFann Ô
May 4th, 2009
9:06 pm
Oooohhhh…that’s a shame.
Frank from KS
May 4th, 2009
9:06 pm
Ya know, I watched the Royals yesterday against the Twins…and I came away with the realization that….they are playing like the Braves SHOULD BE PLAYING.
They were no-hit & losing (I think) til the 7 inning and came back and won 6-4 if I remember right.
When the Braves were playing well….back in the early part of the 14 year run…..they came back and won A LOT of games late that they were trailing.
Barn Door Bobby
May 4th, 2009
9:06 pm
Way to go Bobby! Rush to close the barn door after the horse is already out!
lexbrave
May 4th, 2009
9:06 pm
a 3 run lead is insurmountable by our powerful offense..time to turn this one off and hope for the best tomorrow.
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
9:07 pm
Schafer wasn’t even near that ball when he jumped for it. Javy shouldn’t have been left in to face Beltran. And even though Blanco is stinking it up in Triple A he has big league experience and can at least foul off pitches and draw walks. He K’s a TON but he’s at least half decent and can be a lead off guy.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
9:07 pm
Gawd We Got Clowned This Homestand, I’m Glad I didn’t go to the Game otherwise I would’ve probably gotten Violent!
The “Lets Go Met’s” Chants in our house is sickening…
Jeff321
May 4th, 2009
9:07 pm
Interesting how Javy just gave up another jack, eh?
ny 2009 champs
May 4th, 2009
9:07 pm
kawakami will do it tomorrow….. for us! lol
Jake W.
May 4th, 2009
9:07 pm
Difference in this game, Mets are hitting homeruns and were not. Nothing special their doing. Teeing off on pitches right down the middle. Sure would be nice if we could do that.
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
9:07 pm
Run Heap Run-
nor do I but when you asked it got me wondering also
Yeah, probably should have pulled Javy earlier but Beltran is kinda good
monty
May 4th, 2009
9:08 pm
Game, Set, and Match
LuisG
May 4th, 2009
9:08 pm
Enough!
njbraves
May 4th, 2009
9:08 pm
Met fans..are your lives that boring that you run to a Braves blog when your team does something good? Must really suck to be a fan of a team that will never win anything…ever.
ny mets
May 4th, 2009
9:08 pm
officialy you are small market that stinks now.
nolie
May 4th, 2009
9:08 pm
’m starting to regret my leap onto the Schafer bandwagon a week before the season, when I had been thinking all spring some time in AAA would be good seasoning. (Smyrna Jim)
you were warned !
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
9:09 pm
Jake
You make a good point. They are hitting homers, we aren’t. Heck our hitters can’t even hit a fastball down the middle.
TnBrian
May 4th, 2009
9:09 pm
Come on Mutt trolls…we can take it. We got us all a long season ahead of us. Look at the W-L records between these two the last few years, and then we’ll talk.
MFin04
May 4th, 2009
9:09 pm
Brave-Killer-Beltran can hit the fastball right down the middle. Let’s try and not make him prove it every time we play him. Horrible pitch. Horrible game. Game over. Braves won’t be gifted 3 more runs by the Mets. This team will only go as for as Bobby let’s this offense go. Quit running the same cold guys out there and let guys hitting over .300 play. ASININE!
Tom O'Hawke
May 4th, 2009
9:09 pm
McFann — Did you know that was the “Professor’s” favorite group?
leif garret anderson
May 4th, 2009
9:09 pm
Good thing I’m drinkin bottles and don’t have enough balls to throw em at the tv. But the good news is I’m all out of bottles and only have cans left.
braveshater
May 4th, 2009
9:09 pm
Schaffer sucks, if he hasnt figured out how to drop the top hand in order to get to the inside pitch HE NEVER WILL. Braves made a big mistake keeping this kid instead of ANDERSON. And he isnt even a good center fielder. Another Lame Great White Hope. No playoffs or even creditiblity this year, the Braves are the laughing stock of the division. Enjoy mediocrity forever braves fan. U SUCK.
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
9:09 pm
hey mets- I’m sure your team is better off with Ollie Perez then they would have been with Derek Lowe, right? How’s that working out for you?
ny mets
May 4th, 2009
9:10 pm
go royals!! i mean go braves.
njbraves
May 4th, 2009
9:10 pm
ny mets…ofiicially you are big market that stinks…idiot
McFann Ô
May 4th, 2009
9:11 pm
On the Lighter Side:__Thursday’s game in Gwinnett will be McCann’s first AAA game ever.
FrenchyFries
May 4th, 2009
9:11 pm
1 run lead, 2 run, 6 run, 10 run, it doesn’t matter the braves scored all the runs they were going to score back in the second
Doc Holiday
May 4th, 2009
9:11 pm
They said early in the game that the muts had not make it back all year from a 3 run deficit……….LOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Welcome to atlanta boys…………….you can make it all happen here…………at turner field……….against our high school team.
MFin04
May 4th, 2009
9:11 pm
We need Brian McCann!!!!!!!!!!
Chop It Up All-star
May 4th, 2009
9:11 pm
Coming back from one run was a stretch for this current Braves team, three runs is probably out of the question. Over the course of a 162 game season games will be lost, but man it sure would be nice to see my team have some fight in them when they fall behind.
ny mets
May 4th, 2009
9:11 pm
we will win more games than braves.lollololo. we might get one more arm in the secon half, and YOU???? no money poor team
Jake W.
May 4th, 2009
9:11 pm
Yeah New York Guys. Your pitcher held one of the worse offenses so far to three runs, wow, that has got to spell world series. Casey Kotchman batting cleanup instead of Brian McCann. No difference there right?
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
9:11 pm
ny mets
apparently you have not been paying attention to other baseball teams cause the Royals are pretty good
McFann Ô
May 4th, 2009
9:12 pm
Tom O’Hawke–
Haha…no, I didn’t know that! That’s funny!
Horner's Corner
May 4th, 2009
9:12 pm
As I read the recent comments, I would like to tip my hat to those of you who during Spring Training said Schafer could possibly benefit from half a season at AAA. Of course Schafer was tearing up the Grapefruit League at that time and most of the bloggers were riding the bandwagon (that guy from SC comes to mind) and insisting that Schafer just HAD to be the starting centerfielder. And DOB is as guilty as anybody. Of course the truly guilty party is management, who allowed themselves to wear the rose colored glasses along with all us dumb fans.
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
9:12 pm
Ok Why use Norton to ph to BEGIN an inning…. that STUPID
GTSteve
May 4th, 2009
9:12 pm
I am so done with this crappy team, I cant believe I almost ordered some tickets online today. Color me gone.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
9:12 pm
Leif Garrett Anderson…
If I can’t throw Bottles at the TV I use The Remote, I went through 6 of them last year…
JEFF
May 4th, 2009
9:12 pm
can anyone give me a reason why vasquez is still in the game? oh yea its our manager’s decision.. i cant stand watching the games anymore. no offense no clutch hitting whatsoever… shafer has the most k’s in the NL.. why the hec is he still in the lineup..and we have a manager who just doesnt give a crap anymore.. get some new life into this teammmm… oh another stat.. carl crawford alone has more stolen bases than the whole braves team put together in one day… this mentally and garbage needs to go now..
McFann Ô
May 4th, 2009
9:12 pm
MFin04 We need Brian McCann!!!!!!!!!!
Yes, we do!!!
beltran
May 4th, 2009
9:13 pm
you can go and get moises alou.
njbraves
May 4th, 2009
9:13 pm
ny mets…I’d bet a lot of money that ur Spanish
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
9:13 pm
So we;ve given up on the game and are looking at Joe’s home depot vest and pins instead of the game. Outstanding.
N Nine
May 4th, 2009
9:13 pm
Wow what..the…What happened?
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
9:14 pm
Oddly enough GA did show some power before he got hurt…he hit a couple doubles.
lexbrave
May 4th, 2009
9:14 pm
mets fans are like a guy sitting out in his driveway in a broken down benz…you know you ain’t goin nowhere but you still talk trash to everyone that drives by you in a cheaper car.
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
9:14 pm
LOL bye GTSteve. You’d think as a Tech fan you would be a little more patient.
beltran
May 4th, 2009
9:14 pm
DP-DP-DP-DP
Doc Holiday
May 4th, 2009
9:15 pm
Jake W.,
difference in this game is that the muts manager have some balls and puts up the heat on his players and we have a wimp that babysits his players.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
9:15 pm
Chip And Joe
Shut Up About the Home Depot, I hate How The corporate Clowns Ran that Made that place Hell for its workers…
And Corporate has you guys doing their Promotion, Just Shut up about Home Depots Corporate Promotion…And Call the Game!
Mark in PA
May 4th, 2009
9:15 pm
McFann, get your Rally Googles back on!
OH, wait, another double play..
braveshater
May 4th, 2009
9:15 pm
YOU WILL NEVER SEE ME AT A GAME, NOT WITH BOBBY COX BLOWING THEM ALL. HOW OLD IS HE NOW, WHATEVER IT IS, WE CAN TELL. WHO’S STARTING THE FIRE BOBBY COX WEBSITE???????????????????????????????????????
P-Town Brave(Time to Find a New Staff)
May 4th, 2009
9:15 pm
Its really sad when opposing teams come in and rape our ballpark and proceed to hit more HR than we’ve hit in a week!
Oh, and I swear I’ve taken longer craps than most of our innings!
We have to get rid of Pendleton ASAP!
wright
May 4th, 2009
9:15 pm
no dp for escobar???
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
9:16 pm
Thanks for jinxing us Chip and Joe…they mentioned that stat way back in the 2nd
Frank from KS
May 4th, 2009
9:16 pm
I don’t get it……almost 90% of this blog were clamoring for Schafer to be in the leadoff spot here not too recently and now it’s..”He sucks” or..”He needs to be sent down”.
As I said…I just don’t get it.
Mark in PA
May 4th, 2009
9:16 pm
goggles, McFann, my typo
MFin04
May 4th, 2009
9:16 pm
We could pinch hit for KJ and Esco with Infante and Prado if we wanted to win.
GT08
May 4th, 2009
9:16 pm
I hate the mets, but there’s one thing that I hate more….mets fans
JEFF
May 4th, 2009
9:16 pm
now 3 games under and the mets just pased us congrats to cox and frank wren …. the royals have better players and players who are tired of losing.. there team is managed the right way.. oh and the Royals are leading the american central just as extra info and they steal bases…
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
9:16 pm
Man! Even Chip and Joe Have Given Up on these Clowns…Game Over!
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
9:17 pm
Actually I think the Mets have hit more homers tonight than we’ve hit @ TF this whole year…that’s sad.
monty
May 4th, 2009
9:17 pm
Had chances to score and of course our catcher tries to bunt and Jordan strikes out again! I would disable him at this point if his wrist is affecting him that badly, let it heal before he starts doubting himself if he isn’t already.
Vazques is an enigma, great stuff, then all of a sudden bam,bam, bam.
I hate to say it and it really wasn’t that big a prediction, anyone who keeps up with the Braves Mets series knew Wright would homer against us(even though he had only hit one in the previous 22 games, and of course Beltran feasts on Braves pitching. Delgado should get in on the action pretty soon.
The difference in the Braves and the Mets is they are a dangerous hitting team,we ar not, I don’t know how they could have such a bad reccord. There pitching must really be weak.
wright
May 4th, 2009
9:17 pm
trade hanson for austin kearns
JD
May 4th, 2009
9:17 pm
I think I would’ve rather gotten a draft pick for Tex instead of Krotchman.
MFin04
May 4th, 2009
9:17 pm
BOBBY COX IS A MORON! HE KEEPS THE SAME GUYS THAT SUCK IN THE LINEUP!!!!!
N Nine
May 4th, 2009
9:17 pm
It took a month, but after this loss, we found our permanent home at 4thplace
Roman Gal
May 4th, 2009
9:18 pm
You people are so reactionary…
I can’t wait for Hanson and Heyward and the likes to come up and get beheaded because they struggle a little bit.
(And by “can’t wait”, I mean I “wish ya’ll would grow up!”)
StingerSplash
May 4th, 2009
9:18 pm
you know, we really have some introductions to make here.
Fork, meet Braves. Braves, meet fork. You two look like you were made for each other.
LT-A blogger
May 4th, 2009
9:18 pm
The sun appears to be setting on this season very quick.
braveshater
May 4th, 2009
9:19 pm
YOU GUYS CAN FORGET ABOUT BLANCO, ISNT HE A MINORITY, AND ISNT THIS THE BRAVES, I THINK THEY HAVE MET THERE QUOTA FOR COLOR AS IS.
So How Long
May 4th, 2009
9:19 pm
For all of you, “it’s early, we’ll right the ship” people out there, what do you expect to do this week? Sweep the Mets? Guess that one is out. Go to Florida and whip up on the Fish? Ah yes, then go to Philly and take 2 of 3 from the Phils.
It’s not just who is in the lineup and what they might be capable of doing, it’s about real life and real life performance! Braves ain’t gonna win waiting until next week to get it going. They’ve been waiting for next week for three, going on four years now!
Is it Bobby? If it is, retire the guy. Is it the players? If it is, move some of them out!
One thing is for sure. This combo ain’t working. This combo hasn’t won in the past, ain’t winning now and won’t win in the future! Make changes or as Chipper would say, be prepared to be “the laughing stock of the East again!”
TnBrian
May 4th, 2009
9:19 pm
Tomahawkin, what’s to announce? How bad the offense is, or how Schafer needs to set on fire with a blow torch? Oh, I know, how Bobby picks his nose better than he picks the lineup that he sends out there each game.
smoltz, maddux, glavine
May 4th, 2009
9:20 pm
too much pressure in the pitching staff, they have to be sooo perfect all the time.there is no suport in defense or ofense.
Run Heap Run
May 4th, 2009
9:20 pm
Ugh. Yall are giving me a headache. Bye.
MFin04
May 4th, 2009
9:20 pm
Switch the darn lineup up. It doesnt hurt anything. We aren’t scoring any runs. Our best hitter is riding the pine, and we do nothing to try score runs but send the same horrible 1 and 2 hitters up. CHANGE IT UP!!!!
JD
May 4th, 2009
9:20 pm
Is reactionary a word?
monty
May 4th, 2009
9:21 pm
After watching Frenchy’s last AB yesterday and his last two tonight. It looks like he has gotten impatient, and has expanded his strike zone like last year. Hope I’m wrong but it looks like his new approach experiment is officially over.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
9:21 pm
As Joe Simpson Said I agree Jordan’s wrist is hurt more than we are led to believe…
Sit him for a Couple of games and Let B. Jones Play center, especially if GA is coming back 2morrow…
leif garret anderson
May 4th, 2009
9:21 pm
Tomahawkin:
Thanks I’ll keep that in mind but only have 1 remote. It sucks enough having to listen to keith hernandez color the game. His best tv work will always be from Seinfeld. He truly sucks!
smoltz, maddux, glavine
May 4th, 2009
9:22 pm
whats wrong with infante and prado playing. just because they are not white.
only a couple, see other teams and those guys can run, hit the ball hard and they don’t sit because of glasses, thumb etc..
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
9:22 pm
We have like 4 HR at home this year.
JP
May 4th, 2009
9:22 pm
this is so depressing…
Jake W.
May 4th, 2009
9:23 pm
KJ is really struggling but if you’re gonna put him in the lineup put him torwards the bottom of the order. I know Bobby is trying to get him back to being good KJ becuase God knows we need him but the fact of the matter is Infante is hot. Why not ride out his hot streak till it ends. I also think Frenchy should be batting cleanup over kotchman. You have to have the threat of power in your cleanup spot and Kotchman just doesn’t represent that. And if Schafer’s wrist is hurting him, why not DL him and call up Blanco. It may do Schafer a world of good to rest the wrist and then work on his problems at the plate. Thats all I can suggest for this team other than hope McCann and Anderson come back swinging like Hammerin Hank.
smoltz, maddux, glavine
May 4th, 2009
9:23 pm
guys, brewers-pirates good game. 3-3
JD
May 4th, 2009
9:23 pm
Oh, I know, how Bobby picks his nose better than he picks the lineup that he sends out there each game.
Actually, Bobby picks his nose better than anyone in the game. You could say that he’s better at picking his nose than Albert Pujols is at hitting.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
9:24 pm
TnBrian,
What’s there to Announce…?
I have heard that the mets Commentators have been calling their players out for their slack-off type of play…Maybe Chip and Joe need to do the Same, because we are losing games we should’ve have won early in the year which ain’t gonnna cut it in September
MFin04
May 4th, 2009
9:24 pm
If Schafer is hurt than play Infante. Is it that hard?
JD
May 4th, 2009
9:24 pm
Sit him for a Couple of games and Let B. Jones Play center, especially if GA is coming back 2morrow…
If Schafer sits, then who’s going to strike out for us?
N Nine
May 4th, 2009
9:25 pm
anyone taking advantage of “free game for birthday?”
It’s not June, but it feels like it
Ray K.
May 4th, 2009
9:25 pm
This team is worse than last years’ pathetic incarnation. It’s as if ownership does just enough in the offseason to keep us mildly interested until July, but the outcome is inevitable year after year. My friend in NY, a die hard Mets fan, is even feeling sorry for me. His last text was simply “wow”
smoltz, maddux, glavine
May 4th, 2009
9:25 pm
both teams can actually hit the ball
Chop It Up All-star
May 4th, 2009
9:25 pm
Oh yeah, why is Kelly Johnson leading off again? Omar Infante was doing an excellent job, and as far as I’m concerned he’s earned the right to play.
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
9:25 pm
Would we not have an advanced scouting report on Putz because of Soriano? I mean IDK how other pitchers can help but I mean…..
Horner's Corner
May 4th, 2009
9:25 pm
Roman Gal-
Please, not anther post about how all we have to do is wait for the next great farm hand to arrive and turn this ship around. I ain’t hold’in my breath.
McFann Ô Ô
May 4th, 2009
9:26 pm
Mark in PA–
Oh yeah! The other turtle was napping, had to wake her up.
Wish the Mets still had Heilman…
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
9:26 pm
Leif Garrett Anderson…
I believe It was the Kolb in 05 that made me throw 6 remotes at the TV…I got so bad that year I started throwing shoe’s at the Tube…
Offense Come On, Watch us make the Mets Blow-pen all look like Mariano Rivera, “Bank On It!”
DirtyYuni
May 4th, 2009
9:26 pm
I leave with the Braves 3-0, Javy cruising.
I return and Beltran’s homered twice, Wright’s gone deep, and our offense has gone silent.
The only part of that I’m surprised about is that Wright went deep.
Ugh.
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
9:26 pm
GO CHIPPER!
Smyrna Jim
May 4th, 2009
9:26 pm
Thanks, Chipmeister!
MFin04
May 4th, 2009
9:26 pm
JD there are plenty of guys that can step-up and fill that role of striking out, don’t worry!
Tom O'Hawke
May 4th, 2009
9:26 pm
I am so done with this crappy team, I cant believe I almost ordered some tickets online today. Color me gone.GTSteve
Bubdylan — Hey man, we need your help here. What color is gone?
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
9:26 pm
Wow, Chipper just crushed that one
Necromancer
May 4th, 2009
9:27 pm
Holy S%^&! Chipper tees off!!!
Jake W.
May 4th, 2009
9:27 pm
That looked like an Angry home run swing for Chipper. I would be Angry to at the way our offense is performing.
mbatl
May 4th, 2009
9:27 pm
Man, what a fat 0-2 pitch by Putz. Maybe won’t matter much, bat that was a huge mistake. And good to see.
P-Town Brave(Time to Find a New Staff)
May 4th, 2009
9:27 pm
Wait, where did this Schafer being hurt stuff come from…? Is that legit?
Oh, and only w/ Bobby as the manager in Atlanta will two players like Prado and Infante sit over LESSER players…
Then again Bobby plans out every game before the season so its already written what the gameplan will be for August 24th and so on…
Congrats Bobby for once again doing nothing and getting to keep your job, even in this awful economy!
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
9:27 pm
Nice Hoss! Like It Matters, Now that the game is Over, Reminds me of A. Jones as far as Meaningless homers
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
9:27 pm
Only thing is NO ONE WAS ON BASE!!!!!
Chop It Up All-star
May 4th, 2009
9:27 pm
Way to go, Chip. Nice “solo” home run.
Horner's Corner
May 4th, 2009
9:27 pm
By the way, does anyone out there in the Braves Blogger world gives two sh*ts about how Glavine is progressing. Even if he does come back, he’s going to mediocre at best. Personally, I see little difference between Glavine and Jo-Jo at this point, other than the fact that Jo-Jo has an upside in that he may get better. I would rather see Jo-Jo (or Hanson or Morton or Redmond) pitch every 5th day.
N8
May 4th, 2009
9:28 pm
Hmmm. Whaddya know. Vazquez is unhittable for half a game and them implodes.
Shocker. Check the history folks. That’s the enigma known as Javier Vazquez. All the talent and “stuff” in the world, and just can’t harness it for an entire game on a regular basis.
In the AL with a team that can score runs, he’s a fine “innings eating” pitcher. Hell, on an NL team that scores runs, he would be. But if he has more than 11-12 wins for this team at the end of the year, I’ll be SHOCKED.
leif garret anderson
May 4th, 2009
9:28 pm
Believe it or not keith hernandez on tv is worse than the braves offense.
Barn Door Bobby
May 4th, 2009
9:28 pm
If Bobby would have taken the hint that Vazquez was done after giving up two shots in one inning, INSTEAD of leaving Javy in there to get burned again, then Chippers homer MIGHT have meant something.
As of now all it means is you’re still down by two instead of tied.
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
9:28 pm
That was the first homer Putz has given up for the Mets…fitting it was to Mets OWNER Chipper Jones.
TnBrian
May 4th, 2009
9:28 pm
Love how Chipper doesn’t sit and admire his homers. That Mutt fans, is a classy and professional player.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
9:28 pm
P-Town Brave
Schaffer’s Wrist has been bothering him for over a week now I believe and obviously it decellerates you bat speed when you getting jammed 75 percent of your AB’s
JD
May 4th, 2009
9:29 pm
…and our offense has gone silent.
Because they were shouting and singing before? It seems like all our runs recently have come not from good hitting/coaching, but from mistakes from the other team. Errors, wild pitches, bases loaded walk, etc.
smoltz, maddux, glavine
May 4th, 2009
9:29 pm
i don’t know why sign lowe, vazques and kk. keep the money, develope players and lets be bad for 2 or 3 years, no mediocre forever.
boston is good and finally wining with 4 or 6 gys from farm system, marlins same, phillys same. we are not the yankees to afford every single posotion
Chop It Up All-star
May 4th, 2009
9:29 pm
WANTED: A power hitting 1st baseman and outfielder. Report to Turner Field.
ZC Rider
May 4th, 2009
9:29 pm
Next time the Mets face the Phils. I’m going to have to jump into a NY chatroom. Imagine these Mets fans argue with a bunch of Philadelphia idiots
Necromancer
May 4th, 2009
9:30 pm
DAYUMM!!!!! Did anyone see the “honeys” that were in the background behind Francouer???
kirkinga
May 4th, 2009
9:30 pm
nolie, I guess my thing is that from Little League on through Middle and High School, my coaches always stressed being prepared to steal, or laying down a bunt if if the guy is playing way back. We were taught that such things were not only part of the game, but ways to make hustle plays.
So this disbelief in “stealing as a strategy”, is redefining the game in a way that looks lazy to me. Runners are allowed to steal for a reason, to not use every possible way to score and win is disgusting to me.
There are other means to score besides waiting for power.
Like I said, philosophical differences, you either believe in putting maximum pressure on the defense every chance yo get or you don’t. Aggressive ball vs. Wait for ball.
LuisG
May 4th, 2009
9:30 pm
Ok, right, was he pitched instead of being pitched around? Meaningless or not, at least he didn’t waste an at-bat there to have you guys saying “he struck out again” or “chased a low slider early in the count”, or “doesn’t have an extra-base hit at home this year”. There’s one!
Trey06
May 4th, 2009
9:30 pm
Another day another loss… We NEED Mac back!
KROD
May 4th, 2009
9:31 pm
get us here. this is a 8 inning game.
Mark Windsor
May 4th, 2009
9:31 pm
So Far Braves STINK I can see now we are too short on power They fall behind and cant catch up The only Brave that deserves a round applase is Jerrigens and I cant spell his name
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
9:32 pm
vazquez ain’t an ace….everyone on here that’s taken an liking to him has said that. He’s good for maybe 5, maybe 6. He’s a good number 3 or 4 pitcher. That’s what he was brought here to do. In the past we have had pitchers that have imploded worse than that and the game would be about 11-4 right now. Having at least another pitcher win 10 games this year is an improvement over last season.
Kim
May 4th, 2009
9:32 pm
I remember back when the Brave were a lock for the postseason and we were disappointed if the team didn’t make it to the World Series. I remember feeling sorry for those Royal/Pirate/Brewer fans whose season was over after April.
Well, we are becoming that team. The last 3 years have been pathetic and you can just feel this one slipping away.
Chop It Up All-star
May 4th, 2009
9:32 pm
Jeff F. tried to hit a homerun instead of just trying to get on base, hence the strikeout.
Moby Grape
May 4th, 2009
9:32 pm
As I said…I just don’t get it. (FRANK KS)
it’s the instant gratification generation. ADD rules supreme. “I want what I want and I want it RIGHT NOW!! And if I don’t get it, I’m gonna throw a tantrum, They are in for a rude awakening when they eventually t learn that the world doesn’t give a damn about what they want or whether or not they throw a tantrum.
KROD
May 4th, 2009
9:33 pm
if fla lose. you still 2.5 out.
Steve from OH
May 4th, 2009
9:33 pm
kirk–that’s because middle school teams aren’t that good at playing defense. Big league clubs are gonna convert that stuff to outs like clockwork.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
9:34 pm
Bobby C. Get Your Head Out of Your A..s And Put B. Jones At leadoff…!
He can’t be no worse than what we have now…
JD
May 4th, 2009
9:34 pm
Casey Krotchman’s more like it.
I wonder how many other cleanup hitters have 0 homeruns…and 4 RBIs. For the love of Ted Williams…there are pitchers with better power numbers!
stynes
May 4th, 2009
9:34 pm
Not ripping on Schafer. I think the kid has the potential to be very special. But the Ks have killed us the past week or so. I mean, yes it’s too many Ks but they’re coming at the most inopportune times. Any talk of sending him down or is everyone hoping since he’s so good at making adjustments – at least that’s what I keep hearing – that he’ll be able to work it out here in the bigs?
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
9:34 pm
The Phillies have a few players that aren’t home grown. Why we didn’t try and get Ibanez IDK.
Chop It Up All-star
May 4th, 2009
9:34 pm
Great hit Brandon!! All those bagging on Vasquez obviously don’t much about baseball. Yeah, he’s given up some runs his last couple of outs, but he’s given the Braves more quality starts than poor starts. Besides it has to be a lot of pressure on all Braves pitchers knowing they have to pitch a near shut out every night.
N8
May 4th, 2009
9:35 pm
Here’s the thing on Schafer guys. It is what it is. He’s a rookie. He’s young. He’s overmatched right now. Period. No two ways about it.
But so were Glavine, Smoltz, Avery, Gant, Justice, even Chipper and Andruw struggled.
Only problem he has, is the supporting cast. They were all ALLOWED to struggle because the rest of the team was excellent. He isn’t afforded that luxury. But he needs to be up here learning, since he’s a big part of the future.
Those of us that have stated we’re looking at 2010 as the new “beginning” (I’ve been screaming – well… typing it), since winter, are OK with Schafer.
However, wasting money on D-Lowe, Kawakami, and G. Anderson, along with trading for Vazquez is the true “bummer” about this team. Not how a 22 year old rookie is adjusting (of failing to do so).
The misconception that this team would contend, and ownership trying to sell that bag of bones to the fan base is truly sad.
Some of us see the big picture, or the light at the end of the tunnel if you will.
But make no mistake, this team isn’t winning NOTHING this year. I’m not buyin’ it.
KROD
May 4th, 2009
9:35 pm
milwaukee, pirates and royals developed players and have 70 mill payroll or less.
Necromancer
May 4th, 2009
9:36 pm
Yeah, I love these Braves, but we can’t win it all like we did back in the 90’s with this pathetic offense. Also, it seems like when we fall behind, the players just hang their heads and concede defeat.
Past 3 years have been like this. These are sad times in Atlanta Braves baseball.
Wayne in Utah
May 4th, 2009
9:36 pm
Tom O Hawk
I don’t know what color gone is, I am just glad one of them left! Now, only 99 more to go!
One thing is for certain, when the Braves get untracked, it’s gonna be real nice on the blog, as many will leave as they will have nothing to complain about.
1995
May 4th, 2009
9:36 pm
F BOBBY COX!!! F WREN!!! F LIBERTY MEDIA!!!!
OVER IT!!! PEACE OUT LOSERS!!!! CALL ME WHEN WE HAVE A NEW MANAGER.
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
9:36 pm
What business do the Nats have picking Stephen Strasburg when the whole world knows the ain’t got a shot in hell of signing him?
BabyGoatEater
May 4th, 2009
9:36 pm
Well, I was wrong about those numbers I’ve been asking for. Thanks for the link bravos2249. It seems if Shafer had been hitting lead-off all year, we would’ve had similar or lesser stats from what we have been getting with (shocking!) double the strikeouts. Here they are:
G/AB/R/H/2B/HR/RBI/BB/SO/BA/OBP/SLG /OPS
Braves Leadoff: 30/98/15/29/6/3/13/11/15/.296/.373/.469/.842
Shafer:24/77/11/20/6/2/3/18/30/.260/.400/.416/.816
P-Town Brave(Time to Find a New Staff)
May 4th, 2009
9:37 pm
Tomahawkin-
I can see now why he can’t hit that pitch then…and all the bitchin Chipper is doing is uncalled for…I mean really, we don’t have ANYONE else to play CF…and if you guys say Blanco, you should just hit yourself over the head w/ a mallet!
Other than that, I say again, we suck and nothing is going to change until we clean out the coaching staff….
Nothing has changed with Bobby running the show and nothing is going to…Eventually we’ll be the Nats or Royals from a few years ago…everyone is already laughing at us!
N Nine
May 4th, 2009
9:37 pm
N8 I know Vazquez is your whippin boy, but come on. He is NOT the problem. The offense is terrible and Vazquez is far better than some other pitchers.
David O'Brien
May 4th, 2009
9:37 pm
In his past nine games against the Braves, Wright has hit .529 with five doubles, seven homers, 13 RBI and seven walks.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
9:37 pm
Bravos2249…I’m Still Pissed that F. Wren didn’t go harder after Ibanez That’s why I gave him a D in my posts on this blog during S. Training in my Assessment of the offseason…
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
9:38 pm
I’m not bashing Schafer but how come more people jumped on Blanco last year and his inabilities than Schafer’s this year. I mean at least Blanco could bunt. Blanco right now I believe isn’t proving in Triple A he’s any better though.
TnBrian
May 4th, 2009
9:38 pm
Kim, oh please! You can feel the season slipping away in early May? Wow, are you a psychic?
DirtyYuni
May 4th, 2009
9:38 pm
For those of you who would like a welcomed distraction from the pain of losing to the Mutts, check this out:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/03/sports/baseball/03lions.html?_r=2&ref=sports
Crazy picture of the stadium, and nice to know Dice-K is responsible for the warm butts of many a Japanese baseball fan.
Schafer's Wafers
May 4th, 2009
9:38 pm
We didnt waste money on D-Lowe. Schafer is a rookie playing what his 25th game?? Get off him. David Wright is struggling and he has won gold gloves, silver sluggers. Point is people struggle he will get it right. He is too talented and to many good vets on our team for him not to get it right.
David O'Brien
May 4th, 2009
9:38 pm
Sheff getting booed by the mere 19,000-plus fans as loudly as Hampton got booed the other night.
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
9:39 pm
I think Braves fans are only Booing Sheff cause he’s a Met not cause they hate the guy.
JJ
May 4th, 2009
9:40 pm
they will be good team in 4 or 5 years. chipper, vazques, kk. they need a smaller short stop. wait for freeman, heyward, schafer, hanson, follow frency, maccan. and then go eng get 3 or 4 great players with a bunch of utility players.
don’t waste the money NOW..
Stephen
May 4th, 2009
9:40 pm
Why are they booing Sheff? I liked the guy.
Couch Tater
May 4th, 2009
9:40 pm
Just curious, the Braves are paying Brian 3.5 million this year and they can’t get him a pair of glasses overnight?
N8
May 4th, 2009
9:40 pm
Please don’t lump me in with “those bagging on Vazquez”.
I’m not stating NOTHING but fact, and am simply excepting him for what he is, what he has been in the past, and more than likely will continue to be.
A guy that eats innings (when he pitches good enough to last that long), and a guy that his teams usually win about half of his starts.
Along the way, he’ll remind you of Greg Maddux, the other times he reminds you of Albie Lopez.
Not knocking him, or saying he sucks. Just confused why so many think he’s better than he is, has been or will be. Why? Just because Bobby his his manager? Puleeez.
If we get 200 IP, 12 wins and a 4.50 ERA out of Vazquez we’re lucky. Period. Anything more is bonus.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
9:41 pm
19000 Fans And I bet 8000 were Mets Fans, Since This city Is so full of them….
Thanks Braves fans by Protesting the Play of this team for the last 3 years and not supporting these clowns by not showing up… (Real-Talk)
Wayne in Utah
May 4th, 2009
9:41 pm
Sheffield getting boo’d doesn’t surprise me. I have disliked him since he layed down on the Brewers early in his career.
1995
Don’t let the screen door hit you on your way out!
That’s 2 down, 98 to go!
Marty Funkhouser
May 4th, 2009
9:42 pm
DOB, how much longer do you think it’ll be before we see Medlen up here helping out the pen?
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
9:42 pm
N8
That’s the type of numbers he put up last year so it’s not like your saying anything people don’t already know.
MFin04
May 4th, 2009
9:42 pm
This team from an offensive perspective is depressing. I get extremely sad watching these guys try to hit and play baseball. It’s pathetic. The Lineup won’t get changed up. Prado and Infante apparently can’t get any playing time, and the team continues to lose. Depressing.
Mitchell
May 4th, 2009
9:42 pm
I’m seriously considering becoming an ex-Brave fan.
This is embarrassing. The Mets do not deserve to be the beneficiaries of this kind of crap. They’re even worse than we are and we’re giving it to them.
Nothing I love more than a meaningless Chipper Jones solo homerun to lead off an inning.
Maybe Joe Simpson should review Gary Sheffield’s playoff statistics in the two post-season series he appeared in.
Two hits if I’m not mistaken. Maybe three.
Tom O'Hawke
May 4th, 2009
9:42 pm
DOB — so what are you saying now, Turner Wright?
JJ
May 4th, 2009
9:42 pm
start bennet for kk
DirtyYuni
May 4th, 2009
9:42 pm
Couchtater…I was wondering the same EXACT thing.
I feel like Lenscrafters could get me a pair of glasses quicker than McCann’s gotten his.
Moderate Maniac
May 4th, 2009
9:42 pm
N8,
I made the same point earlier today on the blog. Shafer would probably be in a better situation if he were with the Red Sox or a team where everyone contributes offensively. As it is, he has lots of pressure on him to produce virtually every time at bat because the group of “vets” in the lineup aren’t producing.
I’m on the bandwagon with the Shafer injury question though. Is his wrist so bad he can’t swing the bat? If it is, then how can you continue to let him hit in situations where you are behind and the tying or go ahead runs in scoring position?
N Nine
May 4th, 2009
9:43 pm
I think Braves fans are only Booing Sheff cause he’s a Met not cause they hate the guy.
Not his fault he got dumped by his team. He needed a job to get ONE hr, so can’t fault him there.
Now him shooting it up with Bonds and doning nothing in the playoffs for us, that’s a different story.
McFann Ô Ô
May 4th, 2009
9:43 pm
Nice pickoff!
JD
May 4th, 2009
9:43 pm
Moby – Well when you’re second in the majors in strikeouts (and he’s fighting hard for that top spot), I think it’s understandable when your fan base is frustrated and angry.
mbatl
May 4th, 2009
9:44 pm
Guys, Ibanez is making $31.5 mil over 3 years. Braves would not, probably could not, and definitely should not have paid that for him. He’s off to a huge start… good for him, but I’ll bet you the Phillies will be regretting that contract a year from now. Regardless, he was not in our price range.
N8
May 4th, 2009
9:44 pm
Vazquez is NOT my whipping boy. He is also NOT the Cy Young candidate that so many here want to think he is.
Why can’t people grasp that? If you actualy read my post, you’ll see that I said that IF he was on a team that scored more runs, he’d be a “fine” #3 or #4 starter. But he’s not. He’s on a team that can’t score. Period.
So, at 11 million dollars, it’s wasted money for a guy that has a career ERA of 4.30. In other words, if his team doesn’t score 5+ runs, his team usually isn’t winning. And even if they do, it’s 50/50.
He’s just not capable of carrying a staff and stopping losing streaks. But with a team that scores a ton of runs, he’s certainly capable of extending winning streaks.
Wrong team for him to be successful with this year. That’s all.
muts
May 4th, 2009
9:45 pm
braves are worse than the mets. not the mets better than braves
Roman Gal
May 4th, 2009
9:45 pm
Horner’s Corner
Did you even read what I wrote?
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
9:45 pm
N8, WIT a good team Vazquez should be 4-1 He’s not an Ace but I’m not gonna bash him, Along as we get a(n) over .500 record, I will be fine…
muts
May 4th, 2009
9:46 pm
but 60 for lowe or 23 for KK are good contracts??
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
9:46 pm
If Bobby doesn’t PH for Schafer……I wouldn’t be shocked cause he’s stupid.
sorry but it’s true…at least tonight
Wayne in Utah
May 4th, 2009
9:46 pm
N8
Over the winter, I has similar thoughts about 2009 being a bridge to 2010 and 2011. I think a lot of if’s will have to come together for us to really truly compete for anything more than a mere shot at a wild card.
But, what could you expect Frank Wren to say? “I think we are definitetly a long shot to do anything this year, and only if everything falls into place just right.” Heck no, he’s gotta spin the company line.
As for Vazquez, I was truly hoping that somebody in the Braves organization would help him to figure out why he alternates between Greg Maddux and Albie Lopez. I guess we can still hope, huh?
leif garret anderson
May 4th, 2009
9:47 pm
schaefer is good for beer. Johnson for band aides. And esco for DPs.
Frank from KS
May 4th, 2009
9:47 pm
Personally, I think Frank Wren did good by picking up Lowe….and I think the same about Vasquez and for that….I’d give him a A- or B+.
I think if the offense would kick it in gear, I think we’d ALL feel a bit better about this team.
Maybe I’m wrong….but I don’t think so.
Moderate Maniac
May 4th, 2009
9:47 pm
Goody! We get to see the hotdog tonight!
Roja
May 4th, 2009
9:47 pm
If Bennett can stay in there long enough he can single-handedly put the game completely out of reach.
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
9:48 pm
123 he gone
N8
May 4th, 2009
9:48 pm
bravos2249
I’m glad you get it. But there are far too many people on here expecting too much from Vazquez and ready to crown him one of the “new aces”.
THOSE are the people I’m ragging on. The ones who expect him to be what he’s been? Why would I have a problem with that, when it’s my own stance as well.
I’ve had about 5 or 6 regular posters, without putting money on the line, “bet” me that I’m wrong of what I think we’ll get out of Vazquez.
So far, he’s right on pace to do what it is that he does.
muts
May 4th, 2009
9:48 pm
1 infante- cf
2prado -ss
3anderson
4chipper
5maccan
6frenchy
7kelly johnson
8kotch
9 pitcher
N Nine
May 4th, 2009
9:48 pm
N8 Vazquez is your whipping boy, you have stated this before! It’s okay, we get what you’re trying to get across.
Tom O'Hawke
May 4th, 2009
9:48 pm
No big deal. In the words of the immortal Bob Prince, “we need a bloop and a blast”.
Heath (Cleveland)
May 4th, 2009
9:48 pm
What? There is a Braves going on right now?…Been watching the Magic destroy the Celtics… I like it.
Could Care less bout the braves this year .
May 4th, 2009
9:49 pm
Is it football season yet ?
Jake W.
May 4th, 2009
9:49 pm
Hey DOB do you know if there is any chance that they DL Schafer or is the wrist that the announcers are talking about really not that bad?
Moderate Maniac
May 4th, 2009
9:49 pm
K-Rod Gets K-Shaf
keylargo
May 4th, 2009
9:49 pm
Poor JS may ASK to go to Gwinnette after KRod.
Stephen
May 4th, 2009
9:50 pm
Oh, hey, Schafer struck out.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
9:50 pm
Let The Schaffer Bashing Begin!
Roman Gal
May 4th, 2009
9:50 pm
To whomever asked if reactionary is a word:
Yes. It is a word.
stynes
May 4th, 2009
9:50 pm
0-4 with 3 Ks.
Chop It Up All-star
May 4th, 2009
9:50 pm
Order now, the Jordan S. strikeout machine!!
N8
May 4th, 2009
9:50 pm
So far, Vazquez is 2-2 (about to be 2-3) in 7 starts, and he has an ERA of 4.19.
I’ll give him this. He’s consistent. NOTHING wrong with having a guy pencilled in that you know EXACTLY what you’re gonna get from him when the calendar turns to October.
Unfortunately, I’d prefer him to be in the 4th or 5th spot of the rotation.
mbatl
May 4th, 2009
9:50 pm
gotta sit Schafer down for a while. That’s 9 in 3 games. I’d start Infante in CF for a few days.
MFin04
May 4th, 2009
9:51 pm
Lefties are 1-16 against the closer…and we have 2 righties on the bench hitting .300?
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
9:51 pm
Oh Yea, I think Many fans stopped watching the game…I did for a minute “I Love Money” is on
Chop It Up All-star
May 4th, 2009
9:51 pm
Yeah, Bobby, instead of starting Infante, bring him in when trailing by two runs in the 9th.
Could Care less bout the braves this year .
May 4th, 2009
9:52 pm
if you sit Schafer down who going play center you fool ?
BabyGoatEater
May 4th, 2009
9:52 pm
Maybe He got boo’d because he’s well….here’s some of his comments, they speak for themselves:
“I called it years ago. What I called is that you’re going to see more black faces, but there ain’t no English going to be coming out. … [It's about] being able to tell [Latin players] what to do — being able to control them.
Where I’m from, you can’t control us. […] These are the things my race demands. So, if you’re equally good as this Latin player, guess who’s going to get sent home? I know a lot of players that are home now can outplay a lot of these guys.”
cox
May 4th, 2009
9:52 pm
lowe 12–6
JJ 11–6
Javy 9–12
KK 7–14
5th 6–17 (get nothing_
mbatl
May 4th, 2009
9:52 pm
Infante. Thanks for the courteous response.
Frankie Knuckles
May 4th, 2009
9:53 pm
You have to sit Schafer. You can see the fear in his eyes. He ain’t 13 anymore.
BabyGoatEater
May 4th, 2009
9:53 pm
That and he’s now a Met.
Wayne in Utah
May 4th, 2009
9:53 pm
Mitchell,
If this is all it takes to get you to not be a Braves fan, then you really never was one to start with! You maybe just pulled for the team.
Heath (Cleveland)
May 4th, 2009
9:53 pm
Ugh.
Moderate Maniac
May 4th, 2009
9:53 pm
I’m wondering if it’s more meaningful to have Infante pinch hit in the 9th against K-Rod with no one on and down two than it is to pinch hit in the seventh for Shafer with the go ahead run at second?
ground_fog
May 4th, 2009
9:53 pm
Kelly Johnson is awful,flat out awful.
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
9:53 pm
N8
See I like Vazquez. I like him because he does give us at least a half decent game. He should have a better record, but some games he’s pitched to what he’s capable. The pitches to Beltran were mistakes but the one to Wright was asked for down and in and that’s where he put it.
Javy isn’t an ace. He’s a solid 3 or 4 guy. The reason Ozzie got onto him is because Chicago tried to form him into an Ace and he’s not one. He’s what we needed, a pitcher to put in there to be a stop gap btw Lowe/Jurrjens and the bottom half of the rotation. We can’t do anything about his contract cause hello he was traded to us. So when people argue that they are silly. The only problem with this team is the offense. We need offense.
nolie
May 4th, 2009
9:54 pm
that’s because middle school teams aren’t that good at playing defense. Big league clubs are gonna convert that stuff to outs like clockwork. (STEVE OHIO)
that’s a good point Steve. There is a huge difference in the ability to negate a lot of that at the pro level.
But I understand where Kirk is coming from too. Most of us who played ball from a young age grew up getting that philosophy drilled into us. And hustle is a great play always whether it works or not.I always loved finding a guy with hustle and speed. I’m never happy watching some guy loaf it, even if I don’t start ranting about it.
I guess you believe in “the book” or you don’t. Most places if you don’t you lose in the long run, it’s what makes casinos profitable. The thing is, if you do believe in it-and most all managers do for the most part- then the most effective way is to always go by it cause over the long run you will do better than if you don’t. Since you never know whether it will or won’t be successful in the short run, if you ignore it once it could easily be the time it would have worked if you employed it.
I love gambling with a man who doesn’t know the odds or refuses to play by them. He may make a short term killing once in awhile, but you know you’re gonna clean his clock over the long haul. Nothing better than to figger out that a dude has a habit of drawing to an inside straight.
ground_fog
May 4th, 2009
9:54 pm
At some point the hitting coach will have to start taking some heat this is pathetic.
Wayne in Utah
May 4th, 2009
9:54 pm
That darned Infante. What a bum! Can you believe he made an out in the 9th. Didn’t bunt to get on or anything!
(sorry, I couldn’t resist)
ground_fog
May 4th, 2009
9:55 pm
Do we have one starter hitting over .300?
Boo
May 4th, 2009
9:55 pm
11-14
This team sucks.
DOB, can you ask Bobby why he’d send Vasquez back out in the 7th?
Moderate Maniac
May 4th, 2009
9:55 pm
Could Care less bout the braves this year
Infante is the backup center fielder, you fool!
local garbage company
May 4th, 2009
9:55 pm
Now hiring;
Any braves player
cox
May 4th, 2009
9:55 pm
3 RUN SHOT IN THE NIGHT…..YEEEEEEEEEEEEESSS
milwaukee scored 4 times and they are up 7 to 4..
stynes
May 4th, 2009
9:55 pm
Ditto, bravos… need some O. In a big way. And fast.
MFin04
May 4th, 2009
9:56 pm
KJ hit that ball hard…that might help his confidence going into tomorrow….you never know if they will be a spark. Depressing game. Offense sucks. The pitching was worse tonight.
ground_fog
May 4th, 2009
9:56 pm
You just know when this team is down they have no chance of a comback in the 9th inning. No heart or scrappiness at all. It starts with the GM and manager-no fire or desperation
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
9:57 pm
N8
And the braves probably got Vazquez ultimately to either have him 1 year or to have him eventually as a number 4 if the resign Hudson. Also if they don’t sign Hudson they’d have Vazquez. But IMO with what Hudson has done with this club and in the past the loyalty they’ve shown to others and basically Hudson’s age they may give him another chance. Espeically since we’ll have Lowe, JJ, and Hansen.
Jake W.
May 4th, 2009
9:57 pm
Ok, let me see if I can get this right now and sound like a met fan:
That’s Right braves fans, eat it. We just came back and beat you in ONE game and now were gonna win the world series. We’ve got K-Rod, Putz and Santana baby and you guys can’t buy a run. That’s right, we also got Delgado, Wright, Reyes, and Beltran. Yep, we just made that leap all the way from 4th to 3rd and are sitting pretty right now. Yeah its good to be a met fan.
JEFF
May 4th, 2009
9:57 pm
ballgame.. another game lost .. congrats bobby cox and ur pathetic coaching staff for another job well done… what will the excuses be tonight… wasted 169 on extra innings and 300 on tickets in july… want my money back..
Could Care less bout the braves this year .
May 4th, 2009
9:57 pm
a man in hell needs ice water too bravos that not happen with this team
cox
May 4th, 2009
9:57 pm
philli’s are going to take over now.
atlanta 4th place.WOW
Jurrjens4NLCY
May 4th, 2009
9:58 pm
UUUGGGHHH, Honestly if this team doesn’t start winning, Im going to move onto the Twins, I’ve had my eye on them but I dont want it to come to that!! Seriously, somethings gotta change. NOW!!
kirkinga
May 4th, 2009
9:58 pm
Steve from OH, baseball is baseball no matter what level the skill of those playing.
It’s about doing everything you can to score and doing it all of the time so teams no they can’t rely on defensing you one way.If you are not hitting for power and coming away with no runs in situations where you should be able to score(runner at 3rd less than 2 out for example) then you try to do something other than keep waiting for something that isn’t happening for you.
You should try to do everything legally permissible to you to win the ball game. It really is that simple.
Boo
May 4th, 2009
9:58 pm
Jordan K’fer
There is striking out, and then there is striking out.
In that at-bat against K-Rod, he look completely lost and his swings not even close. I think he could have been allotted ten strikes and still would’ve struck out there.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
9:58 pm
Fcking Blow-Tran Beat Us Single-Handedly, And the Offense didn’t hit Again! We got some Breaks in the second Inning that led to our scoring The Offense Didn’t Do Shyt! Tonight…Same Shyt different Nite
The Offense Still SUCKS!!!
mbatl
May 4th, 2009
9:59 pm
“It starts with the GM and manager-no fire or desperation” – yes, desperation is just what I look for in a leader, LOL.
It’s not about fire; it’s not about heart; it’s not about stolen bases and it’s not even about pitching. The problem is offense. Hopefully, getting MAC and (maybe) Garret back, and some guys to play up to their career numbers (no more, no less), and we’ll start scoring some runs.
FRANK
May 4th, 2009
9:59 pm
they will lose tomorrow.
swept in plhilly
win 2 in fla
win one in ny
3–7 next 10 games
kirkinga
May 4th, 2009
9:59 pm
..know, not no, sorry.
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
9:59 pm
The Braves should put Schafer on the DL…I mean it’s not like putting him on the DL is going to HURT the team.
leif garrett anderson
May 4th, 2009
10:00 pm
Try as I may I can’t hit a mlb pitcher so does that mean fire the hitting coach?
I get your point.
The best hitting coach is the guy on one of the worst teams.
Any coach that could turn andruw around is worth his weight in gold.
Bench Kelly
May 4th, 2009
10:00 pm
It’s time to put Infante in the starting lineup, but not in place of Schafer, because while a strikeout machine hitting .247 in the 8th spot might be bad a leadoff guy hitting .208 is just awful.
FrenchyFries
May 4th, 2009
10:01 pm
Congrats to Schafer, 3 more strikeouts means he’s 5 away from leading the majors
Hope he can keep this up, he’s not doing to great offensively right now but at least he’s got this to look forward to!!
FRANK
May 4th, 2009
10:01 pm
14 and 20 at the end of this 10 games. may be 6 behind. by next week.
W.T. Sherman
May 4th, 2009
10:02 pm
Game over…..drive home safley.
Boo
May 4th, 2009
10:02 pm
Well, at least Kelly Johnson got on once with a walk.
What the heck did Jordan K’fer do tonight?
ground_fog
May 4th, 2009
10:02 pm
Braves can always blame their pathetic play on injuries. That is the way with them-always have injuries and blame it on the injuries so you don’t have to do anyting or make drastic changes.
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
10:03 pm
Hey Matt LaPorta (kid traded for C.C.) his first MLB hit was a Homer.
ground_fog
May 4th, 2009
10:03 pm
Jordan K’fer-lmao time to send the kid down imo.
FRANK
May 4th, 2009
10:03 pm
why we never produce some one like:
prince filder
joy vatto
henly ramirez
uggla
utley
wright
rollins
howard
ryan braun
hamels
gallardo
you name it. we don’t know how to run a MLB team
mbatl
May 4th, 2009
10:04 pm
Nice job by O’Flaherty, Moylan and Bennett tonight. 2 2/3 scoreless with 1 hit, 1 BB, 1 K. Kept us in the game just in case we could mount a rally.
Irrational Braves Fan
May 4th, 2009
10:04 pm
The sky is falling! The sky is falling!
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
10:04 pm
Schafer already leading the majors in K’s is he not?
nolie
May 4th, 2009
10:04 pm
Vazquez is NOT my whipping boy. He is also NOT the Cy Young candidate that so many here want to think he is. (N8)
Name my who thinks he’s a Cy Young candidate Nate. I sure haven’t read anybody say that and I read most every post. I think that’s a straw man my friend. If not tell me the names of those idiots.
Smyrna Jim
May 4th, 2009
10:04 pm
The blogging rate has certainly picked up since the Braves were leading 3-0. We missed you guys.
FRANK
May 4th, 2009
10:04 pm
laporta too.
Schafer's a Bust
May 4th, 2009
10:05 pm
I need me some HGH.
Chop It Up All-star
May 4th, 2009
10:05 pm
Jordan K-fer, lol, I like it.
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
10:05 pm
Frank
You have a point
PWHjort
May 4th, 2009
10:05 pm
Don’t know if anyone has posted this, but Javier Vazquez is:
1) Currently leading the NL with 49 strikeouts
2) On pace to strike out 261
3) Yet to last fewer than 6 innings. Though I would’ve been a ok with him being pulled before 6 tonight.
Irrational Braves Fan
May 4th, 2009
10:05 pm
This is the worst team ever! We’ll never win another game! Bobby Cox is the anit-Christ!
leif garret anderson
May 4th, 2009
10:06 pm
Operation repo is on now.
Not only the bravos gettin repoed by every team in the league but dudes gettin pepper sprayed like ants!
FrenchyFries
May 4th, 2009
10:06 pm
what kind of twisted upside-down world are we living in when we can say “at least the hawks are winning in the playoffs”
Cracke Jack
May 4th, 2009
10:07 pm
after watching our offense the last week and today… im wondering how the hell we’ve even won 11 games??
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
10:07 pm
Ground-Fog…
You Have a point about the braves blaming porr play on injuries…
The 99 team Lost Galarraga and Smoltz for the year and 1/2 a year respectively and we still won over 100 games
The 2005 team had lots of injuries and resembled a AAA team many nights We still won the division, Nuff Said…!
The last 2 years blaming the losses on Injuries is Such a Cop-Out That Braves Fans are tired of hearing! Face it the Team Flat out Sucks!
Jed Clampitt
May 4th, 2009
10:07 pm
Pitiful….. Just pitiful.
PWHjort
May 4th, 2009
10:07 pm
Frank
You have a point (bravos2249)
No he doesn’t. We’ve produced Brian McCann, Adam Wainwright, Jarrod Saltalamachia, etc… in the past 5 years. To produce a super-star you have to either a) get really lucky or b) lose 100 games and get the first pick in the draft.
Steve from OH
May 4th, 2009
10:08 pm
nolie, believe me, it was the exact same way when I played. We ran until it was dark for not executing fundamental plays correctly. Believe me, I really, truly do enjoy fundamentally sound baseball (hustling, hard slides, good defense, etc. etc.). Do I wish bunting and stealing were high % plays? You bet your behind I do…because that’s the way I learned the game, too.
Heck, in high school we ran every chance we got. And we were good at it, too. But you know why? Well, first off, we were pretty doggone fast. But what also helped us just pile up bags was the fact that either the opposition hadn’t been taught the correct fundamentals or the just didn’t have the tools to catch us. But big leaguers have both of those things. Another thing, too, was we would put long, long hours into defending bunts. And we were good at that, too. Other teams, not so much, but we could. We bunted a ton, but we had so much speed that you could just forget about it. And again, it goes along with the other teams not having the fundamentals to stop us. We were taught how to do it the right way, and teams rarely bunted successfully against us. And when they did lay down a sac, they were just giving us outs.
And you know what? We get to the district finals…and the other team knows how to stop the bunt-and-steal. Game, set, and match. And that’s exactly what cost this club tonight and will continue to cost any club that tries to use those strategies as a long-term plan.
How Bout
May 4th, 2009
10:08 pm
I liked Jordan K’fer. Not as good but also could be Jordan O’fer.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
10:08 pm
Ryan Howard has a Slam Tonight and is getting Hot!!! Expect things to get Ugly when the AAA braves face the Phillies …
FRANK
May 4th, 2009
10:08 pm
kk
Smyrna Jim
May 4th, 2009
10:09 pm
Thank goodness we have Irrational Braves Fan to bring us back to reality and calm down the gloom and doom.
thesearen'tyourdaddy'sbraves
May 4th, 2009
10:09 pm
man, this team sucks..looks like a long summer in atlanta, and the falcons are now the top team in this city..the hawks are 2nd…the attendance looks drab on the tv…who would want to watch these sorry bumbs! hello 80’s, we’re headed your way in a hurry!
?????
May 4th, 2009
10:09 pm
This is the worst team we’ve had in twenty yrs and vasquez is startin to remind me of chuck james
Dumbfound
May 4th, 2009
10:09 pm
Maybe the Repo-man will take back their posession of their team from Liberty Media ! LOL !!
et anderson
May 4th, 2009
10:10 pm
Enter your comments here
I hate to comment on spelling
May 4th, 2009
10:11 pm
but bumbs was too good to pass up.
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
10:11 pm
PWHjort
Many of those players are not 1st round picks and are players the Braves could have picked, so spare me the having to lose 100 games.
FRANK
May 4th, 2009
10:11 pm
if you produce good players, then keep them. until you are competitive.
phillis
marlins
dodger
brewers etc..
Boiler
May 4th, 2009
10:12 pm
the bats suck…if they can’t score more than 3 runs better hold the opposition down…bring up Hanson before we get too far behind…we are not exactly saving his arm pitching him in the minors…makes no sense…management sucks too
Frankie Knuckles
May 4th, 2009
10:12 pm
I’m starting to think the folks who are saying – Schafer will come around, and when he does, he’ll be nasty, are experiencing prospect nostalgia. I’ll give him may and june. After that, he will be called a bum frequently. He is 22 (not a baby). But, I’m pulling for him.
k druw
May 4th, 2009
10:12 pm
At least I wouldve almost hit a hr if I connected on missed strikes by schaefer
nolie
May 4th, 2009
10:12 pm
(SMYRNA JIM)
yup, loses always draw way more blog hits than wins do.
Barn Door Bobby
May 4th, 2009
10:12 pm
I keep hearing, “when we get Garrett back and when we get McCann back.”
We had this same offensive team ( actually this lineup IS offensive) last year with McCann. Added Shafer and Garrett Anderson. Shafer is over matched and Garrett Anderson ain’t gonna be a saviour. So tell me again how getting McCann back and GA is gonna turn the season around?
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
10:12 pm
I’m sorry but out 2006 team was worse than this…at least as a whole
Dumbfound
May 4th, 2009
10:12 pm
Where is Met world champ 2009 ?! I know he is not trying to cut us some slack is he ?!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tom O'Hawke
May 4th, 2009
10:13 pm
The blogging rate has certainly picked up since the Braves were leading 3-0. We missed you guys.
Jim , I hear you man. I’ve also missed them. Kind of the way my woodwork misses termites. Better yet, kind of the way Wayne misses them!
FRANK
May 4th, 2009
10:14 pm
bravos2249 you right
we are so desperate to win 14 in a row again. be good, compete and hopefully we will one 1 and after might start another streak.
Smyrna Jim
May 4th, 2009
10:14 pm
I’m off to commit unspeakably degradeable acts to myself in reaction to tonight’s fiasco – if I recover by tomorrow I’ll be back to join the fun. Have a pleasant evening, all (especially Tom O and cabravesfan).
Barn Door Bobby
May 4th, 2009
10:14 pm
yup, loses always draw way more blog hits than wins do.
If that’s the case, the blog will set records in hits this year!
Jake W.
May 4th, 2009
10:15 pm
With the way our offense is perfroming Bobby can’t afford to play KJ right now. He has got to shake some things up. It couldn’t hurt at this point. Hit Infante leadoff, Esco second, Kothcman third, and Chipper 4th. The reason I say that is because batting Chipper 4th may get Kotchman some better pitches to hit. The guy is not a power threat but he can hit doubles. Bat Anderson behind Frenchy and for 7 and 8 I guess some combination of Ross and Schafer till B Mac gets back.
Its to early in the season to give up yet. Things are ugly but anythings possible. I mean could the Phillies have guessed that the mets would blow two september leads in a row to open the door for them. We may not get it done with this lineup but maybe we can tread water to we get healthy or maybe make a trade. It’s easy to give up but I would like to hope the Braves wouldn’t do that. This team looks dead. Maybe they should play some music in the locker room or they should put Gonzo in the dugout and start rocking and feel whatever that guy feels when he is out there. Can never accuse him of looking dead. Try something, anything. Just stop doing the same thing over and over again becuase its obvious its not working with this team.
met 2009
May 4th, 2009
10:15 pm
go mets.
you tell me
May 4th, 2009
10:16 pm
ok when can we say the braves flat out suck when after 10 more losses? 20 more losses? 30 more losses?
you tell me.
when they get to 80 losses? 90 losses? 100?
Frankie Knuckles
May 4th, 2009
10:16 pm
Smyrna Jim – Your digital pimp hand is strong sir. Get it?
Tomas
May 4th, 2009
10:16 pm
This team needs too much things I’m tired of thinking of them. Tomorrow Brandon Jones goes back to triple A, and Garret Anderson, hope he can make a difference.
I think that wrist is really becoming an issue for Schafer. Cox needs to either bench him a few games and play Infant who can leadoff, or DL him and call up Gregor Blanco. The absence of contact by Schafer is really becoming an issue lately.
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
10:16 pm
Smyrna Jim-
Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do
Good night!
JD
May 4th, 2009
10:17 pm
You guys remember when Andruw used to hurt catchers’ hands when he whacked them with his follow through?
mike in woodstock
May 4th, 2009
10:17 pm
Team is lethargic to say the least right now. Amazing how small the crowds now look on the tube compared to the good old days. Announced attendance at 19000 but looked more like 10.
jed
May 4th, 2009
10:18 pm
just read bowman’s article on garret anderson refusing to rehab in the minors. it seems pretty obvious the braves are beginning to doubt his commitment. i think the 2 dropped balls the other night, on top of the .200 batting average, and all the time he’s missed due to “injuries” sort of removed all doubt for me. his reasoning doesnt even make any sense. he says in the past, he’s done minor league rehabs when he’s missed 50 games, and he hasnt missed that many this season, ergo no rehab. but the fact of the matter is that he wasnt healthy all spring! so why wouldnt he be rehabbing? who’s believing this guy? i was fine with signing him, but at this point, i think we’ll be better off without him. he’ll come back, hit about .150 and claim he’s “injured” again within 2 weeks.
Choppinmama
May 4th, 2009
10:18 pm
Sounds like I missed another frustrating game tonight. Whew, it’s getting hard to stay positive. Maybe a good night’s sleep will help…….I mean the team, not us fans.
Tomorrow’s promotion @ 6:08: Brilliant!!!!!!
FrenchyFries: true dat. Like we’re living in Bizzzaroworld, ain’t it?
Dumbfound
May 4th, 2009
10:18 pm
As Florida Evans might say, “Damn” ! “Damn” ! “Damn” !………….
WREN
May 4th, 2009
10:19 pm
why do we play,
DIAZ- KOTCHMAN- JOHNSON- ESCOBAR- SCHAFER ( he is too young)brandon jones, bennet, carlyle. thats why every other team have streaks of 7, 10. 11 in a row but us.
we never win 14 out of 20 any more.
moose knuckle
May 4th, 2009
10:19 pm
What the hell happened tonight?
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
10:19 pm
Celtics back in it with 2:40 left…another good play off game in Boston
Goldenglove002
May 4th, 2009
10:21 pm
What a great win! Wait, whoops, that didn’t happen tonight.
I hate to get frustrated with this team, but I’m getting quite tired of losing (which it seems like the Braves have been doing alot lately. And for Vazquez to give up 6 right after I told people how great he’d looked so far. I’ll make sure not to say anything next time.
Tom O'Hawke
May 4th, 2009
10:22 pm
Smyrna Jim — Goodnight, buddy. And you better have your butt back here.
Doc Holiday
May 4th, 2009
10:22 pm
Moves to be made:
1. Cox should be send down……..can they do that? Send him to AAA so he learns some baseball basic?
2. KJ is more than pathetic………..no words to describe the clown………..he is nothing but a joke…………promises and more promises…………are these players or politicians? Bench him or trade him
3. Send Schafer down and bring Blanco up……..he is the only leadoff hitter in the organization as we speak………..schafer needs to regroup in the minors.
4. Get a freaking player that can at leaaaaaasssssssttt hit the ball to the warning track so at least be have some emotional plays, even if we lose…………they get fly balls to the fence and we can stand up from our chairs…………..
5. Play infante…………KJ should be the PH and nothing else. Play Prado more at 1b………he has more power than Kotchman.
This team is done if something dramatic is not done quickly………….its not like our weapons are sleep and they will wake up………..we dont have any weapons.
Our catcher is the only guy that attempts to surprise the defense by bunting the ball for a hit. We need ballplayers not guys that come to the park to be babysit.
mr baseball
May 4th, 2009
10:24 pm
Bobby Cox is a true triple threat as a manager.
He doesn’t know what players to play on a nightly basis.
He doesn’t have a clue how to set a batting order, regardless of which 8 guys he uses.
He unfailingly leaves certain starting pitchers — usually Reyes, tonight Vazquez — in the game one at least one batter too long.
Not as easy to manage the Braves as it was when they had Maddux. Smoltz, Glavine and a bunch of guys who could hit it out of the park.
Tonight wasn’t a total loss. The Braves exceeded their run quota by 2 thanks to Maine’s wildness that one inning. Watch out Nationals, here we come. Next stop, fifth place.
Barn Door Bobby
May 4th, 2009
10:24 pm
Please someone tell me where the logic is? I’m searching for it.
Omar Infante is hitting well. In fact, Infante is one of the few guys consistently putting good wood on the ball and getting some hits at a time when the team is struggling for offensive consistency.
So what do you do? You bench him of course so you can get KJ some AB’s. You see, it’s more important to get KJ some AB’s so he can try to get out of his funk. It’s so important in fact that you castrate your offense by removing one of the few guys from the lineup that is hitting at a time when hardly anyone else is!
Now that my friends is not only logic but rocket science!
Dumbfound
May 4th, 2009
10:24 pm
No one has said this so far, The Braves should have kept Josh Anderson instead of Matt Diaz ! Why was Cox so in Love with Diaz ?!! The Braves didn’t owe him anything !!!!!!!!!!!
Harrison Dangler
May 4th, 2009
10:24 pm
I unclog my bowels in the direction of the Braves. They are really horrid right now. Suggest that Frank Wren cries Uncle and asks the ownership group to contract the Braves franchise and allow the 3-4 players on the 40 man that are desirable to finish their careers elsewhere. Would not waste any money on Braves tickets anytime soon.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
10:24 pm
Choppin Mama
You didn’t miss anything but another boring game that would’ve gave you a flashback of the 2005 NLDS in Which Blow-Tran Raped Vazquez…
I swear he is behind Pujols in the Playas that you love to hate, but at least Pujols earns his Salary…Can’t believe that Blow-tran is making 19 Million this season
Smyrna Jim
May 4th, 2009
10:25 pm
Tom – I will be back, but not until later tomorrow evening – geometry tutoring with a young lady from 8:00 until whenever (but I’ll have a radio nearby),
Tom O'Hawke
May 4th, 2009
10:26 pm
cabravesfan — Talk about leaving the door wide open for Jim!
Smyrna Jim
May 4th, 2009
10:27 pm
Tom – you make yet another good point.
TnBrian
May 4th, 2009
10:28 pm
Goldenglove, yeah I thought we had this game all but won until 6th inning. I’m not sure where Javy’s head was at in that inning, and really, the 7th. He was probably completely worn down after the fifth, which has me worried about his stamina.
Smyrna Jim
May 4th, 2009
10:30 pm
Yeah, JJ – I still get to root for Duke!
Jake W.
May 4th, 2009
10:30 pm
Brian McCann is indeed a ballplayer but he alone can not save this team. Chipper barely gets anyhting to hit anymore, Jeff Francouer is starting to press a little bit with this offense struggling and has at bats where he reverts to Jeff of 2008. The kid Schafer is struggling. Escobar really hasn’t been the same since his injury. No need to speak on KJ. Other than Chipper and Mac I just don’t think this offense is mentally ready to be a contender. Some guys have it and some guys don’t.
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
10:30 pm
Tom-
There are some limitations…I don’t skydive, ride motorcycles or…actually that’s about all- and I just want to make sure Jim gets the most out of his “tutoring” session
Dumbfound
May 4th, 2009
10:32 pm
Hey Braves let’s go get Jim Thome ! Oh !, Mr. Cox you have something to say ?! “Yes, come on Kotchy” !!!!
benchwarmer
May 4th, 2009
10:32 pm
Isn’t Vasquez performing like he has through out his career? Show some good stuff, several good innings and then blam! junk time. Turn out the lights. Have we imported someone whos potential is just what it is now and no more? Looks like it!
Blows Quick
May 4th, 2009
10:32 pm
What we need to take away from Vazquezs’ last two starts?
When he blows up, he blows up quick! Get the pen up quick! Don’t fool yourself, he isn’t going to right the ship for more than a couple of hitters.
Bobby! Dammit! Remember that you old geezer!
Shamus Thacker
May 4th, 2009
10:33 pm
I know it’s early, but not that damn early. We suck.
JD
May 4th, 2009
10:33 pm
What I want to know is when are our sports writers going to start putting Bobby and company under fire?? It’s been obvious for years that there’s something wrong with management. But Bobby’s tenure seems to be giving him immunity (and while he’s around, he’ll defend his players, coaches, tactics to the death).
Smyrna Jim
May 4th, 2009
10:34 pm
cabravesfan – hey, I’m still here – and I will avoid skydiving and motorcycles, but no other promises.
varoadrunner
May 4th, 2009
10:34 pm
1/2 a win away from 4th place – the hype is gone and now it’s a reality that the Braves don’t measure up. It’s a shame for all of us out here wishing we had the Braves of the 90’s back.
Doc Holiday
May 4th, 2009
10:34 pm
This team couldnt beat an already beaten Maine………he was beating himself …….. the guy couldnt throw a strike……….yet the braves managed to let the guy beat them……….He was soooooooo wild………all over the place……….Sad………This is not a major league team.
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
10:35 pm
Smyrna Jim-
I think everything else is fair game
Chop Chop
May 4th, 2009
10:35 pm
For all those who whine about the negativity, this team is doing precious little to churn up the positivity. It’s the team’s fault. Fans act however they are going to act, but if the team stinks, they egg on the negative stuff. I blame the team for what I see here.
Tom O'Hawke
May 4th, 2009
10:35 pm
You know, geometry was my best subject. Do you need any “tutoring”, cabravesfan? Jim, go to bed!
Chop Chop
May 4th, 2009
10:36 pm
I screwed up a pronoun in that last comment. I’m proud of myself.
Blows Quick
May 4th, 2009
10:36 pm
Jake W
You said it all in a nutshell. “Some guys have it and some guys don’t.”
That says it all and it’s true about this Braves team. They just don’t have it.
Aja
May 4th, 2009
10:37 pm
Why would you pay to go watch this team? It’s hard enough to watch on TV.
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
10:38 pm
Tom-
always hated geometry…could use all the help I could get
Doc Holiday
May 4th, 2009
10:38 pm
JD,
That was a very good………very very good observation.
You are the MVD (most valuable denizen) tonight…………you have my vote pal.
Smyrna Jim
May 4th, 2009
10:38 pm
Tom – okay – sorry, I am out of here – besides, it’s all “her” fault for calling my attention to the basketball game.
?????
May 4th, 2009
10:38 pm
We need to ax the whole damn staff and these aaaa sorry ass non hittin sobs
Pete
May 4th, 2009
10:39 pm
Tomahawkin: “Let The Schaffer Bashing Begin!”
Im not going to bash him, but I hope everyone realizes how little spring training stats can mean once the season starts.
Frankie Knuckles
May 4th, 2009
10:39 pm
That digital pimp hand is strong!
brian
May 4th, 2009
10:39 pm
the lack of clutch hitting and here lately just the lack of hitting is concerning. How many years can go by before TP actually has some resposibility with the lack of hitting and the lack of our hitters developing? Frenchy last year. KJ this year. Chipper goes to his father for advice. McCann is a different story – solid hitter – so if I am going to cut on TP for others’ faults then I have to put McCann in his corner along with Infante.
Braves have very little power but also very little ability for small ball. No speed. No skill at bunting. Braves struggle even getting a guy from 2nd to 3rd with less than 2 outs. With no power it would be nice to see one time getting the leadoff guy on, steal second, advance to 3rd on a groundout to 2B and score on a sac fly. When was the last time the Braves manufactured a run like this?
TnBrian
May 4th, 2009
10:39 pm
I’ll agree that this team sucks pretty bad right now. But, bash him if you want, Bobby won’t let guys constantly hang their heads and sulk in a corner like Mutts management allows their players to. That, if the “o” word comes around, might be the difference in having a good year when it’s all said and done.
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
10:40 pm
Jim-
don’t blame me for the short attention span! It was a good game though
PWHjort
May 4th, 2009
10:40 pm
Doc,
Greg White is currently hitting .232 with a .315 OBP and a .302 SLG % at AAA Gwinnett. Still think he should replace Schafer, who is hitting .247/.384/.395 against big league pitching?
WREN
May 4th, 2009
10:41 pm
we got a break no santana. no oswalt lol
Dumbfound
May 4th, 2009
10:41 pm
JD, I wonder that myself !! It seems like the Atlanta Press is scared to ask Bobby Cox tough questions !!! I no they are not scared he is going to beat them up are they ?!!! Maybe Cox threaten to band them from his office !! But you know what ?!! They the reporters shouldn’t give a @#$%&! !!!!!!!!! What about that Dave O’Brien ?!!!!!!!!!
Doc Holiday
May 4th, 2009
10:41 pm
Hey……..until when it will be fair to say……..Its not early anymore?
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
10:41 pm
Doc Holliday…Welcome To The Bashing, Maine Walked 6 guys and only one of them scored!!! Only the AAA Braves offense could go out likt that…They Deserved to lose if you can’t make the starter pay for walking the lineup…
TnBrian
May 4th, 2009
10:41 pm
brian, the other day against Houston. I believe it was the second game of that series that we manufactured a run.
uga-brave
May 4th, 2009
10:42 pm
tom ‘o hawke,
that 10:22 did not souund quite right.
Bobby ball
May 4th, 2009
10:42 pm
Bobby Cox is to managing as Wayne Newton is to dancing.
WREN
May 4th, 2009
10:42 pm
100 millions and we can’t have a good team. WOOOOOOW
Boiler
May 4th, 2009
10:43 pm
Tex transformed Chipper into Jack the Ripper
Kasey’s not scary so they just walk Larry
Schafer and Kelly upset Bobby’s belly
and Frenchy Francour always swings at ball four
METS gogo
May 4th, 2009
10:44 pm
livan tomorrow
6 innings, 2 runs, 8 hits, 4 bb and win the game
mets 8 braves 3
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
10:44 pm
uga-brave-
re: Tom’s comment- had to go back and read it again and you know what, you’re right…
Tom, should I be jealous?
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
10:44 pm
Pete
Your Quote…”Im not going to bash him, but I hope everyone realizes how little spring training stats can mean once the season starts.”
Same goes for Jo-Jo Reyes who Clowned in S. Training and Chan Ho Park of the Philles as well…Both have struggled
As For Schaffer It seems like he is trying to hit everything to I-20…I S. Training he took the gap-to-gap approach at the plate it seemed…
He’s pressing to much hitting in from of the pitcher and he is injured more than willing to admit.
Over Reaction
May 4th, 2009
10:45 pm
I think people here are over reacting. Most prognosticators picked the Braves to finish fourth in the East. The Braves aren’t officially an embarrassment until the Nats pass them in the standings!
JD
May 4th, 2009
10:46 pm
Bobby Cox is like…
Bobby Bowden
Joe Paterno
A pitcher that Bobby Cox leaves in too long
The Matrix sequels
Moldy cheese
you guys can help complete the list if you want to
TED TURNER
May 4th, 2009
10:46 pm
what do we need?
lets get prince fielder, mark derosa, xavier nady
thats all we need.
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
10:47 pm
Mets Blowgo
I hate to admit that I think you are right about 2morrow prediction…
I will make Hernandez look like Cy Young, “Bank on it”
Same Shyt different Night until Bobby does something different and the offense starts making adjustments…
JD
May 4th, 2009
10:48 pm
Most prognosticators picked the Braves to finish fourth in the East
Sorry, but we don’t want or expect fourth (well…maybe now we expect fourth, but we still don’t want it). I want a team to cheer for, a team I can be proud of. Not one that makes average players and teams look like perennial all-stars.
liberty media
May 4th, 2009
10:48 pm
cox just leave.
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
10:49 pm
One thing everyone can at least agree on it would not have been crazy for this team to have signed Orlando Hudson.
Not saying in hindsight or anything. Just fact. He has good career numbers and he’s a SH, and can lead off. I would have rather bet on him than GA.
brent a.
May 4th, 2009
10:49 pm
Gee, I am just thrilled that Tommy Glavine will make it back to earn his last $1 million.
That’s really gonna be a lift to our offense, as well.
Doc Holiday
May 4th, 2009
10:49 pm
PWHjort,
Isnt blanco in the organization anymore? I said Blanco should be brought up.
And Im not bashing Schafer…….. I think we all know there is something wrong with him, problem is not him, problem is Cox that is leaving him out there……..Its obvious he should be benched or DL or send down………it doesnt look he is getting out of it……….he is not as bad as he looks………..the kid is good………..he has showed it…………but if he is in pain or if he cant adjust………….do something, dont expect some angel will do it for you
Doc Holiday
May 4th, 2009
10:49 pm
BTW……….phillucks winning big
MANY ACTA
May 4th, 2009
10:50 pm
we will fight all the way
rabiddawg
May 4th, 2009
10:50 pm
Well, it seems as if the Braves have done it again, but fortunetely I wasn’t watching. I am of the Colin Cowherd thought that real fans don’t support such garbage of a product. As long as people show up and support this team and its inept management (ie personnel moves) then there is no reason for anyone to make any sort of changes. Spare me the “your not a true Braves fan” junk. I have followed this shotty franchise since the terrible 1980’s (and I’m only 30). This has been a sinking ship for years and it’s time that you all realine that fact. Maybe if Braves fans acted like Nationals and Marlins fans, some drastic changes will be made. Until then, why doesn’t everyone stop whining about loses because you are the ones enabeling this atrocious franchise.
Confuscious
May 4th, 2009
10:50 pm
Man who manage past prime, not primed to manage.
A FAN
May 4th, 2009
10:50 pm
yes i agree it is hard to watch these games but i think we can agree for the most part the pitching has been awesome.and yes that does include the bullpen. now to the AWFence. we could use the wind that jordan gives us to power the whole city of atlanta. man can he whiff! and kelly is doing what he always does by either mashing or unable to hit the side of a barn. ut with that said we should not pass judgment on this team yet because we are missing our cleanup and fifth hitter. i dare say that most mlb rosters not over 100 million could handle that loss. so we must give this team a chance and if they cant hit with a full roster than we are in fact in trouble.
Dumbfound
May 4th, 2009
10:50 pm
Remember after the 2008 season ended and Bobby Cox said and I quote “I promise you we will not be this bad next season” ! Bobby ?! you are a great LAIR !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!11
Steve from OH
May 4th, 2009
10:51 pm
Doc….I….see your Spanish….leaves a lot….to be desired.
Choppinmama
May 4th, 2009
10:51 pm
Goldenglove002: the great win was in the ring, PacMan with a 2nd round knock-out! The little man had 2 golden gloves on tonight, and didn’t waste any time using them either.
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
10:51 pm
PWHjort
I think everyone means Schafer is obviously hurt and it would be better to actually have an CF out there than put Omar out there and pray. Blanco is stinking it up but it’s not like he’ll do any worse than Schafer is right now while he’s hurt/struggling. In the least Blanco can bunt and walk.
Supes
May 4th, 2009
10:51 pm
Doc Holiday, you are right on as usual!
Braves had Maine on the ropes all night long, the guy walked what…6 tonight and only 1 of those scored!
This team can’t hit their way out of a wet paper bag. Playing like a bunch of minor leaguers I tell you.
I know most are going to blame Vazquez for tonight’s loss and he sure did contribute (with his typical 1 inning meltdown via the HR ball), but the offense failed the BRAVES once again.
Garret Anderson isn’t going to help. Neither is B-Mac. This Team is a deeply flawed, the way the current roster/lineup are constructed is a joke.
Being a Braves fan right now…probably as frustrating as I can ever remember.
We are 2 years away from competing (offensively), unless some FA/trades are made.
Chop Chop
May 4th, 2009
10:53 pm
I’m of the thought that Colin Cowherd should be hanged by the neck until dead.
Tom O'Hawke
May 4th, 2009
10:53 pm
Jim — Sorry, I had to leave for a few minutes. Fell 56 posts behind. No, you’re not out of line (yeah, I know you’re just kidding), it’s just that you said you were going to bed. I know the longer cabravesfan and I keep jabbering, you’ll stay awake. She lives in CA, I’m nocturnal. That’s why I said “go to bed”. Keeping you up is making me feel guilty. (now, excuse me while I go back and read all the posts I’ve missed)
CHIPPER
May 4th, 2009
10:53 pm
i don’t deserve 40 millions thank you but i will retire after this season. most i will do is 18HR/74RBI/270AVG
Steve from OH
May 4th, 2009
10:53 pm
Chop Chop–yeah, Cowherd is an arsehole who knows a lot less than he thinks…
MFin04
May 4th, 2009
10:54 pm
Can we please stop suggested unrealistic ideas like…trade for Pujols…Adrian Gonzanlez, should’ve signed…so and so. If you are going to whine and complain…just make sure it’s something realistic or constructive or just plain negative…but not unrealistic.
Pete
May 4th, 2009
10:54 pm
Dumbfound: “JD, I wonder that myself !! It seems like the Atlanta Press is scared to ask Bobby Cox tough questions !!!”
There is no question about that. Ive seen it for far too many years, especially when the Braves were in the playoffs. In fact, Id bet that Cox or the Braves front office has pictures of Mark Bradley in some very uncompromising situations.
brent a.
May 4th, 2009
10:55 pm
Even when I agree with Colin Cowherd on something, I don’t like to admit it.
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
10:55 pm
Man did anybody see what happened to Rick Ankiel…I hope he’s okay…he hit the outfield wall funny…he’s lucky his neck isn’t broke.
unbelievable
May 4th, 2009
10:56 pm
some of you really need to check out Gregor’s line before you start calling for his callup. .232/.315/.303…thats from a leadoff hitter who cant steal and has a crap arm. Face it guys Schafer is the only option out there right now
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
10:57 pm
Tom-
no guilt on my end…everyone should keep the same hours as me
BRAVOS 1995
May 4th, 2009
10:57 pm
mac and GA in the line up is good if you don’t plat jordan and Diaz. we have been playing with 6 hitters (those 2 and the pitcher). but we need 1 power bat. 1 that can scare pitchers and 3 or 4 foor good average
JD
May 4th, 2009
10:57 pm
Just did a little math…
-If Glavine had 500 ABs last season, he would’ve been on pace for 36 RBIs.
-If Krotchman gets 500 ABs this season, he’ll be on pace for 24 RBIs.
So maybe Glav’s return can help. Just throw him in the cleanup position.
Jake W.
May 4th, 2009
10:57 pm
Wren is not to blame for how bad this offense has perfromed. it’s easy to say now that he should have gone after Ibanez and others like Dunn but who is to say those guys wanted to come here. Ibanez picked the world champs and Dunn playing in our outfield is too much of a defensive liability. A lot of players treated the Braves like the plague so Wren did the best that he could do. Thesse players just are not performing. Is Wren to blame when these guys can’t even do the little things like get a runner home from 3rd with no outs. You don’t need a power bat to do that or even a hit. I mean do you really have to teach a player how to hit a ball that comes straight down the middle of the plate. These players are to blame for their own struggles. Were not the Mets, we don’t need a scapegoat like Willie Randolph to blame are struggles on. The only ones who may have an excuse are Schafer(rookie) and Escobar(second year player). The rest are no longer newbies. They’ve been up here long enough.
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
10:57 pm
MFin04
I strongly believe that O Hudson was not a far fetched signing. IDK what he’s getting paid this year but he’s not an out of the park idea.
Doc Holiday
May 4th, 2009
10:57 pm
Steve from OH,
just go back to you $0.25 circus………I was going to ignore you because you are no good, but not even animals deserve to be ignored. No hard feelings.
brent a.
May 4th, 2009
10:57 pm
In regards to the press treatment of Bobby Cox, I’m pretty regularly amused when I hear the same banter over and over from the likes of Joe Simpson, etc. (he’s not really press, but work with me) regarding the Braves inability to move runners over, bunt the ball, etc.; yet, I have never once heard him connect the dots back to Bobby Cox.
Just say it, Joe!
I mean, will Joe Simpson get fired if he dares to question a Bobby Cox decision, or a portion of his methodology/approach?
N Nine
May 4th, 2009
10:57 pm
Those spring training games were more fun, we were tearing it up!
Hey……..until when it will be fair to say……..Its not early anymore?
I’d say June, that’s when we’re god awful and lose ground. It is obvious trotting out this team will not get us anywhere near the post season. We have multiple holes in the lineup and I can’t see it being fixed. KJ is hard on himself, this is what got him slumping before. Schafer will not get bashed by me, WHAT do you expect from a rookie. He has talent and need to see this develop on Cox’s watch.
Doc as far as bringing Blanco, I’d say he would do better right now, but he’s not the long term solution. Maybe it’s best to stick with Schafer’s growing pains. I’m actually more worried about Diaz. He’ll be known as “the guy who never saw a pitch he didn’t like.” He’s got no promise for long term solution, like Frenchy does some what possesses.
We got holes, what are we going to do?
Justafan
May 4th, 2009
10:57 pm
Tomas and others calling for Blanco to return to take Jordon S.place need to check out the facts. Blanco is hitting 232 with 20 plus k’s at Gwinnett. Is that what you really want in CF in Atlanta? Blanco is dead meat, should have been gone last year. Josh Anderson is gone and nothing is at AAA to help. Trade for someone or go to AA to get some one.
The Team is the Pits right now…can’t hardly watch. God bless the Braves they need it.
Steve from OH
May 4th, 2009
10:58 pm
Chop Chop–this should bring a smile to your face:
http://www.firejoemorgan.com/2006/01/12-minutes-of-hell-with-colin-cowherd.html
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
10:59 pm
But then again not too many people wanted to come here but I can’t remeber the select few who have wanted to play here. Didn’t Mike Cameron want to play in ATL and JS didn’t offer him a deal a couple yrs back. I think we still had Andruw but Cameron could’ve played LF if he wanted to.
schafer
May 4th, 2009
10:59 pm
furcal i miss you.
Dumbfound
May 4th, 2009
11:00 pm
unbelieveable, I keep saying Josh Anderson should have stayed than Matt Diaz !! Is there anyone on this blog agree with me ?! Let me know ! Yes or No !!!
Oh no! We Suck A Gain!!!!
May 4th, 2009
11:00 pm
no reason to get upset at schafer guys. the is his first trip above double A. he is going to strike out… a lot. javy is obviously to blame tonight. the guy is just flat out dominant 6 out of the 7 innings he pitches. the problem is the 1 out of 7 he is bad, he is awful. i just dont understand it. i also dont understand everyone on this board that is freaking out right now. did you honestly believe the braves were going to win it all? or even make the playoffs? this is the same team as last year except for a couple of better starters. we lost 90 games last season. to win 90 we would have had to sign burnett and lowe and traded kelly for ludwick and get andruw back. still get javy but also get ohman and maybe another bullpen arm in a guy like beimal. we would also have had to find a way to get a first baseman. how many teams that are going to make the playoffs this year have a guy at first who is going to be lucky to hit 10 homers? ill tell you how many….none. we still have a long way to go boys. its still good to have some hope for your team but you guys need to be a little more realistic. if we win 80 games this year i would be shocked. its not going to happen unless we make some big time moves. the only problem is we will more than likely be too far out of it by the time teams are willing to trade their top talent. we are just going to have to be patient and pray that booby cox retires after this season so we can get manager that actually still knows what he is doing. we have basically put the same team on the field for the last 3 seasons expecting different results. isnt that the definition of insanity?
Tom O'Hawke
May 4th, 2009
11:01 pm
uga brave — I can see where that can be taken in more then one way. I meant it in the “male bonding” sense. I suppose that could be taken in the wrong way, also. I meant it in the closest we’ll ever touch, is verbally. (not that there’s anything wrong with the other)
N Nine
May 4th, 2009
11:02 pm
Tom: Do you need any “tutoring”, cabravesfan? Jim, go to bed!
Cabravesfan: Tom, should I be jealous?
Sounds like Tom is!
PWHjort
May 4th, 2009
11:02 pm
Doc,
Greg White is English for the Spanish name, Gregor Blanco. A native of Venezuela. A nickname made public by Tim Hudson while announcing the line-up in a hilariously southern accent.
smoltz
May 4th, 2009
11:02 pm
frank thanks for letting me go
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
11:02 pm
Considering Schafer has like 13 more K’s than Blanco Yes I’ll take anything that may help. There have been players that haven’t hit good in the minors and hit well in the big leagues.
One thing to note is how many of the pitchers is Blanco facing that he knows if Triple A ? I mean he’s at least faced half if not 3/4 of the pitchers up here in the bigs so he knows their stuff.
Chop Chop
May 4th, 2009
11:02 pm
Yeah. I used to frequent that site. It’s a damn shame FJM left us. We can always look back at the old stuff, but we’ll never get fresh fodder. Maybe some of us here should start a new one?
MFin04
May 4th, 2009
11:03 pm
Let’s hope and pray that McCann and Garret Anderson are the answers to our team’s offense woes. Not sure that they are…but it will help solidify the order some.
1
2
3 Chipper
4 McCann
5 Anderson
6 Frenchy
7
8 Schafer
Randy
May 4th, 2009
11:04 pm
KELLY optioned to GWINNETT.
DIORY HERNANDEZ has been recalled. Waiting for DOB to confirm it, but I have reliable sources.
MARK KOTSAY
May 4th, 2009
11:05 pm
is not his fault. poor kid had been ask to do way too much.
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
11:05 pm
MFin04
GA did hit a few doubles before he got hurt so he was getting there so it may take him awhile to get back in the groove but as long as we all know he isn’t going to come out hot, then we’ll be okay.
Jake W.
May 4th, 2009
11:05 pm
For all the people throwing out Blanco’s numbers, I think everyone knows that he has struggled in triple A. What I’m saying and others is that if Jordan Schafer’s wrist is really hurting him he’s only going to get worse not better. Put him on the DL and let the wrist heal and give the kid some time to breath. 1st year above double A and he hasn’t had a day off yet. At the rate Jordan is going he’ll have a similar line to Blanco soon so it definately won’t hurt this team.
Dumbfound
May 4th, 2009
11:06 pm
Randy ! Stop teasing !!!!!!!!!!!
WREN
May 4th, 2009
11:06 pm
marlins win
N Nine
May 4th, 2009
11:06 pm
Dumbfound- I wanted to say NO, but when on to see what he’s done…well, I don’t know!
http://detroit.tigers.mlb.com/team/player.jsp?player_id=461811
WREN
May 4th, 2009
11:07 pm
we need. escobar, kelly down in AA not AAA
JD
May 4th, 2009
11:08 pm
“I have reliable sources.” Randy
Well I’m convinced.
“In breaking news on Fox 5, Randy has confirmed that the Braves have indeed optioned Kelly Johnson to AAA.”
N Nine
May 4th, 2009
11:09 pm
Dumbfond-Oh and he’s got 6 SB’s to go along with a nice avg.
WREN
May 4th, 2009
11:10 pm
7 strike outs for anderson in detroit. ave 326
LOL pay back for JJ and omar infante.
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
11:10 pm
In the long run Schafer will be great but if Atlanta wanted to compete this year maybe they should have kept Anderson.
PWHjort
May 4th, 2009
11:10 pm
Rudy Jamarillo: “He told you to do WHAT?!?!? Come here. Don’t do that, and don’t ever listen to what that idiot says again.”
5$ to the person who can tell me a) who Rudy is talking to, b) who Rudy is referring to, and c) what they’re talking about.
Tom O'Hawke
May 4th, 2009
11:10 pm
cabravesfan Tom, should I be jealous?
Nothing would please me more, then for you to be jealous …. but just not with JIM!!! (no offense, Jim) & (not that there’s anything wrong with that)
Doc Holiday
May 4th, 2009
11:11 pm
I think Cox has broken a record for different lineups this year………I mean………how can you win if your leadoff hitter is KJ?, I was watching the redsox vs yanks………..redsox do have a leadoff hitter………..we have a player batting 1st.
We have hit mc, kotchman, GA and JF??? cleanup………..what a joke
Our RF that in most teams is an RBI guy is reinventing himself……….he is no threat. He is just trying to get on base……….and he is doing a good job at it, but he is no threat.
We were tied with the padres in slg. and just ahead of the pirates……….what a joke………if any of those teams hits a HR will surpass us in SLG.
WEAK WEAK WEAK
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
11:11 pm
7 strike outs for anderson in detroit. ave 326
LOL pay back for JJ and omar infante.
Well said
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
11:12 pm
PWHjort
Frenchy/ TP/ shortening his swing or being aggressive
PWHjort
May 4th, 2009
11:12 pm
How is a .307 OBP “doing a good job of [getting on base]“?
Tomas
May 4th, 2009
11:13 pm
Some positives to this team. Frenchy is much better this year but let’s be honest, he was way over rated, throughout his carrer I think he wil be a good # 6 or 7 hitter. McCann is great but he is a catcher and everyone has to realize he can’t play everyday(he should rest 2 days a week), He would be a great # 5 hitter. Chipper is still the best hitter on this team, and his presence is specially important on this team. Yunel would be a good #7 hitter, I don’t like him on the top of the order because of all the groundball double plays he hits and his absence of speed. When Schafer gets more contact he’d be a great leadoff hitter. I like Kelly Johnson on the 2 hole, after all batting in that spot in front of Chipper is when he got on that tremendous hitting streak last year.
Casey Kotchman, and Garret Anderson play in positions were you expect some power and RBI’s. They’re not bad players, but the Braves should have more productive guys.
Jayson Heyward and Freddie Freedman better hurry up. I hope those two when they do get here, they will produce.
PWHjort
May 4th, 2009
11:13 pm
Trick question bravos2249, because it could be Frenchy/TP/anything or Andruw/TP/anything, but your check is in the mail. You are correct.
WREN
May 4th, 2009
11:14 pm
we will be 3 out with 138 more games to go.
Oh no! We Suck A Gain!!!!
May 4th, 2009
11:14 pm
Pete,
i just read your post and you and dumbfound are EXACTLY right. the media, including DOB, thinks bobby is a god. they wouldnt ask him a tough question if they were paid to. it is an absolute shame and everyone of them including DOB should be embarrassed. they have no balls whatsoever. maybe thats why they are working the beat here instead of a major city that actually cares about their sports teams. because in places like new york, la, chicago, the media is not scared to ask a hall of fame manager why he consistently puts in pitchers that cant pitch and puts in hitters that cant hit. but booby boy, he has is it so easy its not even funny. because all of the reporters bow down and kiss his a$$ after every loss he probably doesnt even know how frustrated the fanbase is right now. he could see how frustrated we are by looking into the stands and seeing how no one is there, but i just dont think he can see that far….
JD
May 4th, 2009
11:14 pm
Sorry, Tomas. We don’t discuss positives here.
Tom O'Hawke
May 4th, 2009
11:14 pm
McFann’s in bed. nolie … can you hear me? That’s the 2nd time I put the bold in front of the italics, and both times everything that followed came back italicized. I looked that one over well, also.
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
11:14 pm
Chipper Jones has more strikeouts than Jeff Francoeur…put that on your bagel and toast it.
Steve from OH
May 4th, 2009
11:15 pm
Huh. Here I thought it was a) his daughter b) her boyfriend, and c)….
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
11:15 pm
Tom-
think it would take something more then that to make me jealous (apparently this is “make Jim feel bad” night on the blog…sorry buddy!)
Doc Holiday
May 4th, 2009
11:15 pm
PWHjort,
Ooops…….thanks for the tip………..maybe I owe ++++++Steve from OH++++ an apology.
P-Town Brave(Time to Find a New Staff)
May 4th, 2009
11:15 pm
PWH-
I’m assuming its Andruw, Jeff, and any other combination of player that was taught something stupid by the Fat Tub of Booooooo Terry Pendleton
Chop Chop
May 4th, 2009
11:16 pm
Tomas,
How can you spell “Casey Kotchman” and “Garret” (which nobody seems to get right) Anderson correctly, but add a “Y” to Jason in Heyward’s first name and a “D” to Freeman in Freddie’s last?
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
11:16 pm
Honestly last year if you’d tell me on May 5th I’d wake up and Chipper Jones would have more K’s than Jeff, I’d take you to see a psychiatrist.
JD
May 4th, 2009
11:16 pm
When I mentioned Atlanta sports writers being critical of Bobby, I was mainly talking about in the papers. Like how Mark Bradley was calling for Mike Woodson to be fired several times, or how Schultz complains about Waddell.
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
11:16 pm
Tom- you have to close the italics…use the same code tha tyou put in front but add a / in front of the i
Tomas
May 4th, 2009
11:17 pm
Freddie Freeman is really struggling in Myrte Beach advance class A. Batting 229 with 4HR and 15RBI’s.
P-Town Brave(Time to Find a New Staff)
May 4th, 2009
11:17 pm
We couldn’t option enough players to the minors guys…
The problem lies in that no matter who is wearing the uniforms on the field, #6 and his stooges he calls coaches are still running things inside the dugout, and while that still exists, we will never EVER win anything again!
Doc Holiday
May 4th, 2009
11:17 pm
This is the lineup I would put up for the rest of the season:
1.
2.
3. Infante
4. Chipper
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.JJJ/lowe
Can we play games with only 3 players in the lineup?
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
11:17 pm
Former Brave Russell Branyan hits his 7th Homer, R U Fcking Kidding Me…? Breaks up Millwood’s No-No attempt…
JD
May 4th, 2009
11:18 pm
Chop Chop – and don’t forget the popularly misspelled “Schaefer” and “Gwinnette”
Chop Chop
May 4th, 2009
11:18 pm
I’ve called for Woodson to be fired several times. I still think he should be fired. The Hawks had a better team than the Heat. If they had lost in the first round, Woodson would likely be toast. They managed to eke out a series win, so now Woody’s a golden god.
WREN
May 4th, 2009
11:18 pm
why we don’t hire players like:
cantu
russel branyan
geof blum
ivan rodriguez ( i know we have mac)but he was cheap
etc… cheap and productive.
JD
May 4th, 2009
11:19 pm
Tomas – that’s still 4 HR and 9 RBIs more than our “cleanup” hitter
PWHjort
May 4th, 2009
11:19 pm
I like this line up based on what we currently have on the roster.
1. Chipper Jones
2. Brian McCann
3. Chipper Jones
4. Brian McCann
5. Chipper Jones
6. Brian McCann
7. Chipper Jones
8. Brian McCann
9. Martin Prado (hey Chipper’s going to miss 20% of the games anyway, why not give Prado 20% of his plate appearances).
andrew
May 4th, 2009
11:19 pm
let’s get nick johnson for kotchman and JO-JO
Justafan
May 4th, 2009
11:20 pm
Some people say you can’t blame management for the Braves problems. Cox and Wren don’t hit, run, pitch and etc its the players to blame? Now who picks those players, signs, and makes out the line up and makes the trades and etc?
If you go by a car thats not worth a sh!!…who’s to blame, the car or the buyer? If you run a business and you stock up on stock no body wants…who’s to blame the owner, store mgr or the damn stock?
Everything that happen to this Country the last 8 years was who’s fault? Congress, Courts, Democrats, Republicans are the President?
The Buck stop with Management = Wren and Cox. At least Ted Turner took the blame when he was here…no one else for Braves have ever took the blame. Management sucks.
unbelievable
May 4th, 2009
11:20 pm
does Kelly have options left anyways? I dont believe he does
andrew
May 4th, 2009
11:21 pm
may be between the nationals and the braves they can put AT LEAST 1 good team.
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
11:21 pm
When was Russell Branyan a brave?
JD
May 4th, 2009
11:22 pm
Chop Chop – THANK YOU! (about Woodson)
This playoff victory almost certainly leads to Woody sticking around for another year. I thought that with 3 embarrassing losses and the Hawks ended up losing the series that that would be enough (in addition to being 116 games under .500). But now even Bradley and Schultz have rescinded their criticism and are saying he’s a good coach. As we’re about to see, the Hawks won’t be able to compete with the elite in the NBA.
At least the Falcons are in good hands…that makes 1 out of 4 teams.
N Nine
May 4th, 2009
11:23 pm
bravos2249- a few years ago, we dumped him when season started.
Question. Who has the most HR’s for the rich Yankees? hint: Tex just hit a homer.
PWHjort
May 4th, 2009
11:23 pm
How about Nick Johnson and Josh Willingham for Kotchmam and Reyes/Morton/Parr/bullpen arm and they can have Garret Anderson if they want, otherwise you can just release him.
Dumbfound
May 4th, 2009
11:23 pm
Now I wasn’t saying we should have kept Josh Anderson to replace Jordan, But to have them both in the out field !!!
BossLady
May 4th, 2009
11:24 pm
Bradley, Schultz and Bisher are sports columnists in the Atlanta market but DOB is a beat writer. There is a major difference which has been explained on this blog more than enough times. We get an update of what is going on with the Braves on a daily basis from the inside of ball park and clubhouse. That’s it. Go over to their columns and blast them for not confronting Bobby. Please, Joe Simpson is not a
sports journalist he is The Braves Announcer. See, there are positions that are in place for the purpose of keeping us informed only.
andrew
May 4th, 2009
11:24 pm
trade jo-jo, parr,morton and campillo for guillen from royals
N Nine
May 4th, 2009
11:25 pm
Answer=Nick Swisher.
At least we have Loaf and his unwanted attitude.
Tomas
May 4th, 2009
11:26 pm
Chop Chop, typo Freeman’s last name, and I thought it was spelled Jason with a “y” before the “s”, I don’t know why. And Kotchman and Anderson well I see them everyday on the lineup card that I have them memorized. And my first language is Spanish.
bravos2249
May 4th, 2009
11:27 pm
Swisher leads the Yanks in homers
Pete
May 4th, 2009
11:27 pm
Oh no! We Suck A Gain!!!!: “Pete, i just read your post and you and dumbfound are EXACTLY right. the media, including DOB, thinks bobby is a god.”
I will add that I do believe Cox is a Hall of Fame manager. However, even HOF managers do things that should at least bring questions from the media, but not here in Atlanta (Ive been here 20+ years). Aint gonna happen folks, so just get used to it. The worst one by far is Mark Bradley, and as I mentioned earlier, someone must have pictures of him.
Jake W.
May 4th, 2009
11:27 pm
For everyone complaing about KK we really need him tomorrow. Not for his pitching of course, but for what he can bring to the plate. No more bunting for our pitchers, they need to learn how to swing the bat so they can help themselves. With KJ hitting 1st and the struggles of Jordan at 8, the number 8,9,and 1 spots are becoming automatic outs. I mean Vazquez kind of blew it pitching tonight but he did get us 2 of our 3 runs. Nope, not by getting a hit but putting the ball in play and making the other teams defense work. Glad to know someone on this team knows how to do it.
MFin04
May 4th, 2009
11:27 pm
Favorite thing to throw when the Braves screw something up?
Tom O'Hawke
May 4th, 2009
11:28 pm
Forgive me, I’m responding to posts that are 25 minutes ago.
N Nine I think I finally got Jim to bed, and now I’ve got you? sheesh
andrew
May 4th, 2009
11:28 pm
mark derosa
russel branyan
adam wainwright
jason marquis
jermaine dye
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
11:28 pm
Rescue Me might be the most brilliant show ever
Tomahawkin
May 4th, 2009
11:29 pm
I believe Branyan was Signed to a minor league deal Prior to the 2005 season, He was sent to AAA and released, but don’t quote me on that…
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
11:29 pm
Tom & N Nine (and Jim)-
I gotta say you boys know how to make a girl feel good
escobar
May 4th, 2009
11:30 pm
renteria lead off. no steals but nice hitting. -still doing it with SF-
N Nine
May 4th, 2009
11:31 pm
Tom O’Hawke_ I’m as Nocturnal as it gets! I thought we’re both going to the LA game with her? She’s all mine, just give it up!!! Sheesh.
JD
May 4th, 2009
11:32 pm
BossLady – chill. I’m not saying that DOB, Bradley, Schultz, etc should push Bobby down and spray him with beer. I just want to hear answers to the questions that we’re all asking. Why leave Vazquez in? Why keep Kelly in at leadoff?
That wasn’t a knock on DOB either. I think he and Ms. Rogers work their butts off to keep us up to date on pretty much everything from injuries to what Jurrjens ate for breakfast.
But when the Braves have been struggling for so long with what seems like the same problems, I think we need to start putting management in the hot seat. Me posting a comment on this blog won’t do much. But having somebody questioning the management, whether that be through interviews or through columns, will start to raise awareness.
Although based on what I know from the average fan, Bobby is so revered that criticism won’t go over too kindly with them.
Doc Holiday
May 4th, 2009
11:32 pm
Justafan,
Could you tell us how puts up the lineup with a guy that is hitting like .200 as a leadoff hitter?
Could you tell us how is responsible for benching infante and prado?
Could you tell us who is responsible for the lack of fire on this team? concentration ???
We need somebody like tom lasorda, pat riley……..somebody that transmits fire to the players……….. These guys look like if they were playing poker or monopoly for 6 hours.
mets fan in atlanta
May 4th, 2009
11:33 pm
While I was at the game tonight, i tried to post on the blog about the 4th inning. I was so pi$$ed off i couldn’t hardly think straight. Thankfully the blog ate my post, because you would have seen me talking dirty on John Maine and the entire Mets lineup.
I just kept thinking how the only way the Braves seem to score anymore, is to get walks, errors, some kind of gifts that allow them to score without getting a real hit. The Mets were playing right into that.
The HRs didn’t really solve the Mets problem with hitting with RISP, but I tell you what, I think every Met fan in that stadium let out a colllective “whooooooooshhhhh” when Beltran hit that first HR.
BTW, I am shocked no one really said anything about Chipper hitting his homerun when he did. Last year, if Texeira had done that, they would still be talking about how all he does is hit HR when they don’t matter. I was actually sitting there thinking, I bet Chipper hits one here, when he came up. To tell the truth, i was much happier with Putz grooving one to Chipper than walk him and start up a bunch of crap.
N Nine
May 4th, 2009
11:34 pm
haha Cabravesfan! Tom’s after your cool dog, thats all
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
11:34 pm
N Nine-
where do you call home? You may have the upper hand on Tom…
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
11:35 pm
Tom’s after your cool dog, thats all
Not a problem- I’ve got no issues with using my cool dog to get a man’s attention- guys do it to us all the time…
Tom O'Hawke
May 4th, 2009
11:35 pm
Tom-
think it would take something more then that to make me jealous (apparently this is “make Jim feel bad” night on the blog…sorry buddy!)
And it would take a lot more then that to switch sides, no offense again, Jim. (not that there’s anything wrong with that)
Doc Holiday
May 4th, 2009
11:35 pm
unbelievable,
I believe KJ has one option left…….the same option that scar gave simba……….Run KJ run……..and never return!!!!!!!!
JD
May 4th, 2009
11:38 pm
Doc –
likewise, YOU have MY vote for tonight. Kudos on the Lion King allusion
Doc Holiday
May 4th, 2009
11:39 pm
Thanks JD
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
11:40 pm
And it would take a lot more then that to switch sides
I don’t know- tickets to Game 7, Braves vs. Red Sox at Fenway would be a good start
N Nine
May 4th, 2009
11:42 pm
Anyone saw this coming? Greinke 6-0 .40 ERA 54k,8bb-Zero HR’s given!!! wow that’s robotic.
Doc Holiday
May 4th, 2009
11:43 pm
Good thing we have lots of pitching……..I cant imagine how long this season would be if we didnt have the pitching we have………..we would be losing virtually every game by 10 runs before the stretch.
Tom O'Hawke
May 4th, 2009
11:43 pm
Alright, I finally got caught up. Damn cooking dinner! You guys can no longer talk behind my back. Well, you can, but now only by a minute or so.
N Nine
May 4th, 2009
11:45 pm
Cabravesfan- Live in metro Atlanta for the moment, I cann make a quick drive!!
You may have the upper hand on Tom… Aww! That’s good to hear, but Tom will kill me now. Naw he’s a good guy too!
Doc Holiday
May 4th, 2009
11:45 pm
Did anyone see this coming?
Braves 11-14…………4th place———11th in runs scored.
Maybe some of you did
JD
May 4th, 2009
11:46 pm
N Nine – I did (check out our fantasy draft:D)
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
11:47 pm
N Nine-
Metro Atlanta wins over Albany (sorry Tom! Please don’t hate me!)…but somewhere with a beach would be better
Run heap run
May 4th, 2009
11:47 pm
Lawd have mercy some of yall have come undone. Imagine the delight of anders and other mets trolls reading some of these reactions Everyone needs to chill the eff out, we can still get this. And hey, if we cant we all know the mets will choke again and september and make us all proud.
Goldenglove002
May 4th, 2009
11:47 pm
Everyone who says we should have kept Anderson over Diaz, we must remember that many of us thought it was the right move at the time. It’s one of those disapointing moves that just doesn’t turn out as hoped. Wren really only made 2 1/2 misses on all the players now on this team.
Garrett Anderson (yet to prove himself)
Diaz/Anderson
Kawakami (He’s the half, I’m not considering him a bust yet though he’s had his troubles)
Considering he did seem to get it right with Lowe, Vazquez, Ross, and Schafer (dudes a rookie, stop complaining about his K’s and look at his OBP) I’m not back on the fire Wren wagon. And I’m especially not mad at Bobby, something is wrong with those of you who keep saying he is a bad manager.
I know, complete chage of mind from an hour ago when I was showing my frustration, but atleast the future (2010) still looks good, even if we end up with 3rd or 4th this year
Doc Holiday
May 4th, 2009
11:47 pm
I just dream of the day I wake up and open up this site and kaboom ………..front page……….BOBBY COX RESIGNS AS BRAVES MANAGER…………
That would be better than a championship itself!!!!!
JD
May 4th, 2009
11:47 pm
Actually, I knew Greinke finally had his demons settled and I knew he was having a good spring. I had no idea he’d be THIS good.
Chop Chop
May 4th, 2009
11:48 pm
That’s good enough for me, Tomas. I was just confused about it. At least you’re trying to get the names right. I appreciate it.
Tom O'Hawke
May 4th, 2009
11:48 pm
N Nine — Hey my friend, don’t be selling cabravesfan’s dog short. I hear she’s quite the “party animal”.
I’m also thinking, she may be too much woman for either one of us. Maybe we should work in tandem. (cabravesfan, not the dog)
JD
May 4th, 2009
11:49 pm
Even though you’re probably not Run Heap Run, I have to reiterate my point from a few weeks ago that Anders is not a troll. While annoying at times, he’s clever, witty, and brings entertainment to the blog.
Doc Holiday
May 4th, 2009
11:49 pm
Problem is we are letting easy games slip away (like tonight), this game we had in the bag and 7 pitches later we were losing……….to a team that had never come back this season from a 3 runs deficit……….unreal.
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
11:50 pm
Maybe we should work in tandem
Tom, sweetie, i like you but don’t I get a say in this?
tvsportscaster
May 4th, 2009
11:51 pm
By the way, Randy I think you’re full of crap about Kelly. Just doesn’t make any sense and it’s not the way the Braves do things. And if it were so, why isn’t in the Braves game story. Nice try though, you at least had people on the blog talking
N Nine
May 4th, 2009
11:51 pm
JD- which team are you? I’m toast with Mac,Webb, and now Zman on DL…oy
Cabravesfan- your plane ticket will arrive in mail soon. Hope Delta’s okay. I like how you’re trying to mess with Tom tonight!!!
Doc Holiday
May 4th, 2009
11:52 pm
At least it was not the bullpen giving the game away.
P-Town Brave(Time to Find a New Staff)
May 4th, 2009
11:53 pm
O’Brien, your stupid WordPress keeps eating my post…
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
11:53 pm
N Nine-
You send me a plane ticket and take me to a game and I’m all yours…at least until Tom comes up with a better offer!
N Nine
May 4th, 2009
11:54 pm
Doc, If I cold I’d buy you a drink right now, I feel your pain. Taking this very hard my man!!
Tom- Your only hope at the moment is to start a new life and move!!
Tom O'Hawke
May 4th, 2009
11:55 pm
cabravesfan ….”somewhere with a beach would be better” (I didn’t italicize that because I’ve been having trouble.)
OK, you said you weren’t very good in geometry, but I think you were equally poor in geography. What beach in Atlanta were you refering to?
P-Town Brave(Time to Find a New Staff)
May 4th, 2009
11:55 pm
In all seriousness, this is what I would run out there w/ tomorrow against Livan:
1) Infante cf
Ross c
2) Prado 2b
3) CJones 3b
4) Francoeur rf
5) BJones lf
6) Escobar ss
7) Kotchman 1b
We probably won’t win because we still have way too many holes, but moving Esco down, Brandon up, and inserting Infante and Prado in seems to be the more logical decision as our biggest problems have been in the 1/2 spots in the order…
JD
May 4th, 2009
11:55 pm
N Nine – ooooh right….forgot that I changed my name. I’m hottt spotts
Mac will be back soon. Not so good news about the pitching though…
bravefaninok
May 4th, 2009
11:56 pm
abravesfan
May 4th, 2009
11:53 pm
N Nine-
You send me a plane ticket and take me to a game and I’m all yours…at least until Tom comes up with a better offer!
damnnnnnnnnnnn……
P-Town Brave(Time to Find a New Staff)
May 4th, 2009
11:56 pm
Like I said, lost cause w/ Bobby running the ship!
I hope the front office likes looking at empty seats, because they’re gonna see a lot of them the rest of the season.
Oh, and Randy is probably full of crap, but if they can do it w/ Jeff, why not Kelly…he’s certainly not nor should he be above going down to become a more consistent hitter.
cabravesfan
May 4th, 2009
11:56 pm
Tom-
Atlanta has other things to offer
Like my Braves…
JD
May 4th, 2009
11:57 pm
Lot of blog flirting tonight
bravefaninok
May 4th, 2009
11:58 pm
goodnight bloggers….we need to win some games,hopefully Mac and GA help ….
George Stone
May 4th, 2009
11:58 pm
Oh but some of you are funny. I can see it now in September when this sad sack bunch is in last place (oh, that’s right, they would be if not for the Nats)- you sad souls suffering from either delusions, insomnia, amnesia or denial will still be opining, “gee, if only Vazquez could get the ball over- gee, if only Chipper had gotten a hit- gee, if only Schaefer didn’t have such a huge hole in his swing- gee, if only Diaz wasn’t any better than a fifth outfielder on most major league teams; gee, if only Kotchman could hit a ball to the fence; gee, if only Kelly Johnson still didn’t suck; gee, if our relievers throw strikes and all the starters win 20 games each which they are perfectly capable of doing, we can win the division. WAKE UP!! BAD TEAM. BEEN BAD SINCE 2006. STILL BAD. Chipper Jones actually made one accurate statement: We have just been doing this the last few years, meaning, we do what bad teams traditionally do: we don’t hit enought, we don’t pitch well enought and we got no chemistry. Same as is ever was the last few years. Some of you on this blog get it, a lot of you never will.
N Nine
May 5th, 2009
12:01 am
Lot of blog flirting tonight JD
not much on the Braves side, and cabravesfan feeling frisky
MFin04
May 5th, 2009
12:04 am
P-Town stop wasting your time with that lineup, not in a million years
Tom O'Hawke
May 5th, 2009
12:04 am
cabravesfan — Oh, I know. I’m actually a lot closer to the ocean, here, then N Nine is in Atlanta, by quite a bit. I’m only a couple hours away from it. But I knew it was gonna come down to the Ted. That darn Ted. He’s got the stadium. Can’t beat that. Of course, I could’ve flown us both down there, and met at a certain hotel. I’ve flown down there many times. But N Nine won, I bow out gracefully. I just hope he likes the full-figured gals (220lbs.+) as much as I do. No hard feelings.
Dr. Van Nostren
May 5th, 2009
12:08 am
Who would win in a foot race between Casey Kotchman and Bobby Cox?
cabravesfan
May 5th, 2009
12:11 am
Tom-
I was just waiting for your counter offer! I would enjoy a game in New York (or especially Boston
) just as much, as long as it involved the Braves…and I’m not that “full figured”!
A couple of hours…that’s tough my friend.
P-Town Brave(Time to Find a New Staff)
May 5th, 2009
12:11 am
MFin-
I should know by now w/ Bobby running things it will never change…thats why I’d rather have a revamped staff than a revamped lineup…
I think most of these players could win w/ other management in place…
I mean even Scossia(sp)liked Kotchman, BUT he utilized him properly w/ his team AND he already had the HR hitters in place to where Casey’s lack of power wouldn’t be magnified.
Its absolutely necessary to put players in position to succeed and Bobby can’t even put them in the right places in the lineup to do that (i.e. Kelly)
MFin04
May 5th, 2009
12:13 am
I agree the lineup has got to change. The only way it does is if the staff changes.
METS SUCK
May 5th, 2009
12:15 am
if garret anderson and mac stay healthy we will make a run.
Dr. Van Nostren
May 5th, 2009
12:15 am
We should play Infante and have him bat leadoff until he cools off. I’d even go so far as to say we should sit Schafer for a bit to let his left wrist heal up and to also give him time to regroup. It can’t hurt at this point.
P-Town Brave(Time to Find a New Staff)
May 5th, 2009
12:15 am
If they really needed a leadoff hitter though they could go w/ me…(if only it were softball)
I am hitting .714 (10-14) in my Sunday league, .667 (10-15) in my Wed. league, and .600 (3-5) in my Thu. league…ALL from the leadoff spot…
And yeah, Steve from OH, there’s a decent sample size already
Necromancer
May 5th, 2009
12:16 am
Saw some little kids playing ball at a park on Friday. I noted that they played with more heart and enthuiasm than this current Braves team.
So sad
JD
May 5th, 2009
12:17 am
Who would win in a foot race between Casey Kotchman and Bobby Cox?
I’m gonna go with Bobby…but only because his belly gives him an extra foot or two.
tn oldschool
May 5th, 2009
12:18 am
we’re not going to make a run at the east unless your talking about the cellar
BRAVES 1414
May 5th, 2009
12:19 am
is all about hitting. we have decent ballclub, just need 2 clutch hits per game.
P-Town Brave(Time to Find a New Staff)
May 5th, 2009
12:20 am
If Schafer’s wrist is as bad as everyone seems to think it is, he should be DL’ed and they should bring someone up not named Gregor Blanco…either one of the Hernandez’s are fine…Diory from AAA or Gorkys from AA…
I would understand why not Gorkys, but his numbers are pretty solid in AA minus the high K numbers like Jordan.
BTW, anyone know if Barbaro can actually play any position? He seems to only DH ala David Ortiz?
Dr. Van Nostren
May 5th, 2009
12:21 am
FYI: Jennifer Aniston is going to be on Jimmy Fallon’s show around 12:50am tonight. She’s 40 but she’d still get it, if you know what I mean.
Tom O'Hawke
May 5th, 2009
12:22 am
cabravesfan — Sorry about that “full figured” comment. I guess when I said, “bow out gracefully”, I didn’t depart all that “gracefully”.
Don’t knock my distance to the ocean. I’m more of a mountain man. And I’m surrounded with them. Yeah, I know, you have plenty of mountains in CA, but how long does it take you to get there from LA?
Oh, one other thing, you may be closer to the ocean, however, most of the time I can, probably, drive there faster.
Legend of Len Barker
May 5th, 2009
12:22 am
When I was a wee child I played a little baseball. My plate awareness was better than Jordan Schafer’s.
I had the power of Rafael Belliard* and was fully aware of it. In the two years that I played – actually let me correct that to “attempted”, “struggled”, or “stunk” – my philosophy was to wait for the pitcher to throw me a strike.
After John Maine had been very iffy with his control, Schafer comes up hacking. I audibly cursed my screen.
This has nothing to do with youth or inexperience. If an eight-year-old with fewer lifetime homers than Rafael Belliard knows to wait out a pitcher, Schafer should, too.
Brandon Jones is a better hitter than Schafer and has much better patience. Keep him here and send the other back for some seasoning, a kick in the pants, or whatever it takes to get him to quit trying to get himself some nice shiny stats in lieu of being a teammate.
* For you older Braves fans, substitute in Pat Rockett.
N Nine
May 5th, 2009
12:23 am
Cabravesfan
There’s no counter from Ol’ Tommie in Albany! He has come to his senses and “gracefully bowed out!” How’s GAbravesfan sound? Hey we can visit DOB while you’re here! Top that Tom!!!
BRAVES 1414
May 5th, 2009
12:23 am
we will make a run and thats it. not win the division.
Jake W.
May 5th, 2009
12:24 am
P-Town
If Anderson gets activated B. Jones is probably getting sent down.
Necromancer
Its sad to say but I agree with you. I said the same thing last year but I was hoping something would change. Philly gets down in a game and they ALWAYS believe they still have a chance. We get down and all of a sudden we forget the baseball basics. People start swinging for the fences thinking they can get it back with one swing or they simply forget how to hit. They let stuff spiral instead of picking each other up. The losing would almost be easier to take if you felt like these players were leaving it all out their every night. Not just playing hard but playing smart.
N Nine
May 5th, 2009
12:24 am
JD(spots) How about Kotchman vs Mac?
Dr. Van Nostren
May 5th, 2009
12:25 am
Barbaro has played 1B in the past. That’s really the only position he can play. He’s not on the 40-man so I doubt we’ll see him in ATL.
cabravesfan
May 5th, 2009
12:25 am
Tom O’Hawke-
My family actually has a cabin in the Serria Nevada mountains…I love it up there! (You do have some advantages, don’t you?) Takes about 5 hours if I leave early
as for the ocean, I can walk to the beach in about 15 minutes, drive in 2.5 (although parking is a bit tricky)
and no worries about the “full figured” thing…I’ve said before it takes much more then that to offend me
BOBY
May 5th, 2009
12:26 am
schafer will be in the line up at least 145 games this year.
Dr. Van Nostren
May 5th, 2009
12:27 am
Len Barker: Brandon Jones can’t play CF. If they send Schafer down, which I don’t see happening, they would have to bring up someone who could play CF. Infante could play CF, but I’m not sure they’d be comfortable enough with him there to not even have an alternative on the roster.
cabravesfan
May 5th, 2009
12:27 am
N Nine-
It sounds good (especially the whole cost of living thing) but I am a born and bred Cali girl…it would be tough to leave
BOBY
May 5th, 2009
12:28 am
?
Mitchell
May 5th, 2009
12:28 am
The Braves are going to lose tomorrow. I have no doubt about it whatsoever.
So why am I going to watch yet again?
If this is what it’s like being a Royal or Pirate fan, I don’t know if I can handle it.
wren
May 5th, 2009
12:29 am
send diaz down or DFA
Tom O'Hawke
May 5th, 2009
12:31 am
cabravesfan — Let’s get one thing straight! I wasn’t trying to offend you, I was trying to turn N Nine off!
Dr. Van Nostren
May 5th, 2009
12:31 am
I think we need to clean house in the bullpen and bring up Medlen and possibly even Morton for middle relief. They can’t be any worse than Bennett and Campillo.
N Nine
May 5th, 2009
12:31 am
Alright, Tom got his wish, leaving Blog for a bit. Be good!
mbatl
May 5th, 2009
12:32 am
wow, just checking in. Blog is kinda’ creepy tonight.
In blogging as in baseball, tomorrow is another day!
cabravesfan
May 5th, 2009
12:33 am
Tom O’Hawke-
Didn’t think you were…and I have to say it is kinda refreshing (and sweet) to hear you say you like women that look like…real people
cabravesfan
May 5th, 2009
12:35 am
N Nine-
I’ll probably be gone if you come back…good night!
mbatl-
sorry, creepiness is totally unintended
Tom O'Hawke
May 5th, 2009
12:35 am
You know, you can knock this silly stuff all you want. First of all, I think it’s fun. Secondly, when the “blog-elders” come out of hiding, who’s posts do you think they will read. All the negative, whiner-bloggers, or the “Peyton Posters”?
GermanBravesFan
May 5th, 2009
12:36 am
Three games under .500… hmmm. Not really signs of an improved team.
Dr. Van Nostren
May 5th, 2009
12:36 am
Well, I’m out. Gonna check out Jennifer Aniston on Jimmy Fallon’s show and then hit the sack.
stynes
May 5th, 2009
12:36 am
Ye ole blog has a new name…
The Braves/MIB/BBQ/LDHU blog. Long Distance Hook Up for all you kiddies at home.
cabravesfan
May 5th, 2009
12:37 am
I will back my guy Tom here- it’s fun, and infinitely better then complaining about the team!
Mitchell
May 5th, 2009
12:41 am
Hey cabravesfan,
Where is this cabin in the Sierra Nevada’s of which you speak? My uncle’s family has a cabin at Fallen Leaf Lake which is just southwest of Lake Tahoe.
It’s incredible.
Of course the one bathroom is attached to the kitchen but other than that it’s pretty sweet.
Tom O'Hawke
May 5th, 2009
12:41 am
cabravesfan — Gee, I hope N Nine didn’t leave because of anything we said. I thought he was actually winning. Who knows, maybe his wife just came home. Oh, well …. (I’ve won by attrition before)
TnBrian
May 5th, 2009
12:46 am
After a frustrating loss to none other than the filthy Mutts, what’s better than watching Tommy Boy? It’s on TBS…watch it, it’ll relieve some tension you might have.
cabravesfan
May 5th, 2009
12:46 am
Mitchell-
My place is at Huntington Lake, about an hour and a half NE of Fresno…it really is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen!
Tom-
You get tonight but there is always tomorrow
WOW
May 5th, 2009
12:49 am
All i an say about the Braves is that they are a sub 500 team nothing more nothing less. This team is going to miss the playoffs for a 4th straight year and there fan base continues to shrink. Jordan Schaffer is an embarassment to the team and it is like last year when Francouer was awful, crucial situations will find you and what does he do strikes out time after time, the kid is awful. Kelly Johnson well he cant play defense and he is too streaky of a hitter to help a team consistently. I believe Omar should take Schaffers spot and prado should take Kellys can it get any worse? The answer is not really were 24th in the leauge in runs scored all i can say is forget about the Braves bringing a championship or even a playoff just wait for the Falcons they will be competitors also lets watch the Hawks they have officially switched places with the Braves and someone tell Bobby to quit running the same lineup out there getting the same results its getting really lame.
Boo
May 5th, 2009
12:51 am
This team sucks, but good God it’d lose 100 games with Doc Holiday’s suggestions.
Kotchman is doing pretty good so far.
Infante blows, I don’t care what the heck his 50 at-bats this year say. His career numbers frickin’ pathetic.
Prado can’t play defense at first.
Blanco is stinking up the place in AAA and Schafer’s OBP is in the .380s.
braves70
May 5th, 2009
12:51 am
It is these kind of inane quotes from Bobby Cox that drives me insane. From DOB’s article on the game:
“He probably made five bad pitches all night and three got hit out,” manager Bobby Cox said of Vazquez (2-3), who allowed two hits through the first five scoreless innings.
“He’s fine,” Cox said of Schafer, who is 5-for-37 with 18 strikeouts with runners on base, including 2-for-20 with 10 strikeouts with runners in scoring position.
Is this man so senile that he cannot see what is going on? The Braves are worse now than in 1978 when Cox first got here. If he had been the captain of the Titanic, he would have said: “The ocean seemed fine. We saw a little ice but if we had just got around that we would have cruised.”
Boo
May 5th, 2009
12:55 am
KELLY optioned to GWINNETT.
LOL!
Kelly Johnson ran out of options years ago and would have to accept an assignment.
You couldn’t even get your facts right in your fake breaking news post to rile people up. FAIL
Tom O'Hawke
May 5th, 2009
12:55 am
cabravesfan
I was pretty sure that I “had tonight”, when N Nine went to bed. However, I really liked it when you said, “my guy Tom”. That warmed me up from inside out.
WOW
May 5th, 2009
12:57 am
BOO OBP DOESEN’T DRIVE IN RUNS WHEN YOU ONLY REACH BASE WHEN THERES NO ONE ON I MEAN COME ON SCHAFFER=GOOD PROSPECT AT THE MOMENT AN AWFUL MLB PLAYER
TnBrian
May 5th, 2009
12:57 am
Braves70, don’t drive yourself insane. Do you really think Bobby is going to talk negative about any one of his players in front of the camera? I realize it’s frustrating, but the man knows Shafer is absolutely lost and Vazquez made AWFUL pitches to a red hot Beltran and that little snot David Wright. Do what 98% of us other fans do, and let Bobby’s after game comments go in one ear and out the other.
MariettaDerek
May 5th, 2009
12:58 am
This team was definitely NOT double pits to chesty tonight. 5 left on base for the kid. He needs to sit.
cabravesfan
May 5th, 2009
12:58 am
Tom-
glad I could help
though I needed to get back on your good side
cabravesfan
May 5th, 2009
12:59 am
wow- that sounded kinda mean…certainly didn’t mean it like that
Chop Chop
May 5th, 2009
1:02 am
This blog would be a lot more interesting if the nicknames “Tom O’Hawke” and “cabravesfan” were replaced by “Robert” and “Bobby Cox.”
Tom O'Hawke
May 5th, 2009
1:06 am
cabravesfan — I like to respond with something appropriate, hopefully, funny, but you have me at a total loss with your last post.????
Necromancer
May 5th, 2009
1:07 am
For some reason or the other, I still watch these games. I put myself through h*ll everytime I watch and my poor wife has to hear my profane language.
I can’t seem to get a grasp on why I continue to punish myself. I still hold out hope, and I do, I really do try to maintain a positive attitude eventhough my past rants say the contrary.
I keep telling myself that I’m going to take a break from watching them so as to keep my nerves and sanity in check, but I still find myself turning on the tube to watch mediocre baseball.
I guess that means I’m still a fan. Some of you may disagree, but, what else can I say. I just want the boys to play and play like the enjoy it, or nothing else, play for those big paychecks.
But from watching them these last few years, it doesn’t look like they care anything about winning. It seems that they enjoying being “feasted on” by these other teams. And what’s especially bad is that they make a club like the Nats look like a high caliber ball club.
What happened to that “Braves Pride” that consisted of winning and dominating? What happened to the players looking like kids on Christmas morning in the dugout? What happened to America’s Team?
I was so looking forward to this year with some of these signings that they did. I like the Lowe deal. The Vasquez deal I questioned, and Kawakami was a whole new territory. I just wish that the Braves would show their fans and each other that they know how to play with pride and stop playing half-@ssed.
Robert
May 5th, 2009
1:09 am
Hey “Bobby Cox”, do you have any idea what Chop Chop was talking about? No, I don’t. However, he usually has a point, maybe, we’re just missing it. Let’s see if he will illucidate.
cabravesfan
May 5th, 2009
1:12 am
Tom-
I didn’t want you to think I only called you “my guy Tom” to get back in your good graces…
Tom O'Hawke
May 5th, 2009
1:16 am
I’d like to know what he’s talking about, also. (Chop Chop) And I would like him to “elucidate”.
DawgFan
May 5th, 2009
1:16 am
So every team in the East wins tonight but us. Awesome. I blame Shafer.
Pete
May 5th, 2009
1:17 am
braves70: “It is these kind of inane quotes from Bobby Cox that drives me insane. From DOB’s article on the game:
“He probably made five bad pitches all night and three got hit out,” manager Bobby Cox said of Vazquez (2-3), who allowed two hits through the first five scoreless innings.
“He’s fine,” Cox said of Schafer, who is 5-for-37 with 18 strikeouts with runners on base, including 2-for-20 with 10 strikeouts with runners in scoring position.
Is this man so senile that he cannot see what is going on?”
In defense of Cox, thats what he says for publication but he obviously knows different. I give him credit for always backing his players to the press, even if doesnt make sense.
TnBrian
May 5th, 2009
1:18 am
Necromancer, calm down, please. I know it’s been said a million times already, but McCann and Garret are huge holes in the lineup. Surely Bobby will at least knock KJ out of the leadoff spot ASAP, and sit Jordan for a few games or DL him. I’m ranting here, but don’t let it get riled up.
cabravesfan
May 5th, 2009
1:18 am
I’d like to know what he’s talking about, also.
That makes 3 of us…
Frank from KS
May 5th, 2009
1:19 am
cabravesfan
Did ya happened to catch my reply about Liz Berkley & Showgirls from the last blog?
cabravesfan
May 5th, 2009
1:20 am
Frank from KS-
not sure…what did you say?
DownOnTheFarm
May 5th, 2009
1:20 am
If Richie Sexson was on this team tonight, we would have won by 2. That’s a fact.
scottbravesfan
May 5th, 2009
1:21 am
I’m so depressed I can’t believe we lost this game tonight. I hate losing to the stupid Mets. Schafer’s strikeouts are getting old. The guy can not hit a fastball up and in.
Tom O'Hawke
May 5th, 2009
1:25 am
cabravesfan — Speaking of ‘what did you say’ (1:20), why are you apologizing to me? Maybe apologizing is too strong, but you seem to be sorry about something you said to me. (Go back a few posts) I have no idea what you’re talking about. As far as I know, you haven’t said anything that even ——- could take the wrong way.
Necromancer
May 5th, 2009
1:28 am
TnBrian,
The sad part about it is that I’m actually pretty calm. I guess I’m giving in to resignation. I was flying high when we were up 3-0, then the wheels came off (once again).
That was deflating to watch. It seems like it’s the same old song and dance. I miss the competiveness that the Braves used to have.
To me, McCann can’t get back quick enough. For Garrett, I heard that he told Cox “NO” when asked to go down to Gwinnett to get better (or was I dreaming that?) The jury’s still out on GA. I just hope when Mac and GA get back, this will stoke the ole fire.
I just wished that one run wouldn’t bury the Braves, which it seems to have done this year.
I don’t like it that the Braves seem to be almost every team’s whipping boy. I guess I’m spoiled on them winning all those years. Who could blame me, you know?
cabravesfan
May 5th, 2009
1:29 am
Tom-
I think it was for saying I would take Metro Atlanta over Albany…
But now i gotta go- it’s past my bed time and I have to return to reality tomorrow…not sure how much I will be around during the game (Dad’s birthday) but I will be here at some point- Good Night!
Frank from KS
May 5th, 2009
1:32 am
cabravesfan
I said that I had a liking for films such as Showgirls, Basic Instinct, Bound (another Gina Gershon flick), Wild Things…