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Visitor Agreement | Privacy Statement
© 2013 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
1,911 comments Add your comment
uga-brave
May 25th, 2009
12:58 am
BAS, 11 pars. four bogies, 3 other numbers.
DiamondbackMac
May 25th, 2009
1:17 am
Steve from OH
A link confirming Dr. Richard Tapper. – http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&ct=res&cd=2&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthgrades.com%2Fdirectory_search%2Fphysician%2Fprofiles%2Fdr-md-reports%2FDr-Richard-Tapper-MD-5C519BE4.cfm&ei=GSkaSrexC8bJtgfdoPntDA&usg=AFQjCNG9rK6A0byLR0-R13e9×5dZj6eA8w&sig2=iH02n_zRY1EMz96bwDo5AQ
Bay Area Steve
May 25th, 2009
1:27 am
’tis those “other numbers” that f’ (sorry Wayne, can’t help it) me, uga.
Can make 12 pars, 2 birdies, 2 bogies…all day, everyday.
Then the snowmen show up.
But, who cares ’bout the score; did you make money?
Rob from SC
May 25th, 2009
1:39 am
DOB
You should ban people like Jerry Holcombe for his 11:32 post. That comment is in poor taste. There is no need for that.
Jerry McManus
May 25th, 2009
1:44 am
I live in North Carolina why do the braves only televise 1 out of 5 games here. Do they not want fans in NC to watch on a regular basis.
Roman Gal
May 25th, 2009
2:04 am
I have a feeling I’m really going to be lambasted for my Heyward comments. Braves fans are pretty rabid when it comes to their prospects. Oh well…
Ciao Bella!
Bay Area Steve
May 25th, 2009
2:14 am
Roman, anyone who wouldn’t trade Heyward for Braun or Longoria is a fool, and you know that. Neither squad would take Heyward and Hanson, I’d bet.
uga-brave
May 25th, 2009
2:18 am
bas,
made a lot of pars.
made a lot of big numbers.
they got in my pocket.
i hit i right down the miiddle. hit the power fade and still lost.
uga-brave
May 25th, 2009
2:22 am
those big out of bound numbers.
Bay Area Steve
May 25th, 2009
2:24 am
OK, so I’ve decided it’s gotta be an “O’Brien loves Whitesnake” sign.
Anybody know what’ll show up best in the press-box? White background? Neon green?
N8
May 25th, 2009
2:31 am
Uh….Jerry Holcombe, when I said “years”, I meant the past three years of NOT MAKING THE PLAYOFFS. I could give a rats ass what the 4th and 5th starters did when Maddux, Glavine and Smoltz were in their prime. Braveheart could have been the 4th starter, with Coach rounding out the rotations and Dakota Fanning coming in to close. We STILL would have made the playoffs damn near every year.
Yeah. I was comparing THIS staff to a staff when we had 3 HOF pitchers in the rotation. Are YOU serious? THAT had to be a joke, right?
uga-brave
May 25th, 2009
2:34 am
bas,
i can crank it.
made a 11 par’S
still lost. but hat fun. the power fade worked. hit the ball from the tips. i was inside 160 all day.
winterville
May 25th, 2009
2:45 am
Just saw Rules of Engagement for the first time. Very solid war movie. Samuel L. Jackson used to keep it so real until he got into a bunch of crap roles. A Time to Kill was great, this one was great, The Die Hard movie was good, Pulp Fiction was great. Now he’s doing stuff like Snakes on a Plane and Lakeview Terrace. He sold out. Oh well.
“Waste the m***** f******’s!!!”
David O'Brien
May 25th, 2009
2:54 am
Sad, awful news: former Wilco member Jay Bennett dead at 45.
http://blogs.suntimes.com/derogatis/2009/05/jay_bennett_dead_at_age_45.html
BravesFan InRockies (ex-BFIR)
May 25th, 2009
8:18 am
Jerry McManus,
I wish we could get more Braves games in NC but we probably never will. MLB considers us to be in the Nats/O’s home territory, so if you have cable the Braves are blacked out — even on FSS — every time one of those teams is playing (unless the Braves are on Fox).
If you get MLB Extra Innings through DirecTV or Dish you might get more Braves games, but it’s possible those are blacked out, too.
Supes
May 25th, 2009
8:47 am
No Memorial Day blog?:)
bravesfaninmetsland
May 25th, 2009
9:02 am
DOB:
I caught the last half of the Magic Cavs game, and I was thinking the same thing that I just read from you. It was sickening to watch LeBron get call after call. I know he’s a superstar, and he will get more calls then most, but Howard’s no slouch and should be getting more respect from the refs. I’m surprised he’s only got 5 T’s If I were Howard I think I’d have the seven that would cause me to be suspended already.
JasonInFL
May 25th, 2009
9:02 am
DOB, do you think Soriano will start getting even more save opportunities. As you have mentioned a few times, he has been lights out this year. I am not necessarily down on Gonzo, but unless there are a couple of tough lefties coming up in the 9th; Soriano should be the main guy.
Couch Tater
May 25th, 2009
9:03 am
1969.
I was in the 7th grade, in my case the year of lost innocence. I can remember laying awake at night listening to WGN, KDKA or countless others on the “skip” listening to all the Wars and rumours of Wars. I have to admit, the thought of having to go to Viet Nam made me nervous. I even secretly wondered if I would become a Montreal Expo fan.
I am fortunate.
My father served in the occupational forces in Japan after WWII. So that War was never really personalized. My brother, whose Draft number was “4″ had a college deferment and of course, the next few years would bring stability.
I was never touched like this.
http://www.ajc.com/opinion/content/opinion/stories/2009/05/24/garlocked_0524.html
Lew
May 25th, 2009
9:11 am
It’s hard to find a Liberal with a sense of humor? It probably is if the standard you’re using is Dick Cheney.
Doc Holiday
May 25th, 2009
9:15 am
Knobler On Braves, Peavy, Holliday
By Eddie Schmid [May 24 at 9:58pm CST]
CBS Sports’ Danny Knobler thinks the Jake Peavy drama this past week helped kick-start some discussion on team needs. He’s got a couple interesting bullets:
* The Braves are shopping hard for a right-handed hitter and are said to be dangling Jeff Francoeur, though Mark Bowman speculated last week that they might release him. His value can’t be too high now. We discussed the Braves’ woes last week.
bravesgrl4life
May 25th, 2009
9:18 am
Good morning, bloggers, and Happy Memorial Day. Thanks to all those who have served our country. GO BRAVES!!! Be some Giant Killers.
AndyC
May 25th, 2009
9:19 am
DOB. do you catch Breaking Bad last night? The ending was devastating. This has turned into one sick and twisted series and I love every minute of it. I really get the feeling that when all is said and done there will be no happy endings for Walt, Jesse, and Skyler.
TommyP
May 25th, 2009
9:21 am
Time for Schafer to join the fun in Gwinnett. I’m afraid he could be at a point where permanent damage occurs if we continue on with this.
Bring up Blanco and just live with him for awhile out there.
Make a deal for an OF and platoon Francoeur/Garret at the opposite corner. At least Frenchy’s trade value will increase a bit just going against lefties.
Schafer's Wafers
May 25th, 2009
9:25 am
TommyP,
Why in gods green earth would the braves bring up somebody who is doing worse than Schafer in AAA. Geez some of the so called “fans” need to get with it.
richbrave
May 25th, 2009
9:31 am
DOWN ON THE FARM:
Our hitters trio of FREEMAN, HEYWARD, and JOHNSON keep rolling along for the PELICANS. All have raised their May averages over April, FREEMAN dramatically, in JOHNSON’s case substantially, and HEYWARD marginally.
HEYWARD has been the most consistant since the season began with a .279 April average and .284 so far in May. May’s HR total has doubled (6 in May) so far over April’s and his SO/BB ratio has improved to almost 1-1 (11-9). Those are significant signs of key hitting ability.
JOHNSON has been consistant in HR’s(8 each month) and RBI’s, but has improved his BA from .253 in April to .299 in MAY. Unfortunately his SO/BB ratio remains roughly the same. But slugging is up to .662 for the month with a 1.027 OPS.
FREEMAN’s results at the plate have been excellent. April’s .253 average has soared to .333 in May, but his power numbers have declined significantly. With a much improved May SO/BB ratio now roughly 1-1, he’s capable of bat discipline, and is evidently learning it well. Now the instructors will have to try to work his natural power-game back into the mix. If he can adapt his new approach with his old style, he will become ATLANTA’s future 1st baseman. If successful, this process should take a year or two under normal circumstances.
CB
May 25th, 2009
9:31 am
Couch Tater beautiful story and truely a day that should be honored by all. I had two brothers who were in the army during this time who have passed away in the last couple years. I also hope we honor the men who come to the funerals to present the flag and to play taps. We are lucky to live in this country, and should be so appreciative of their service. God bless all the veterans and our soldiers.
mike28212
May 25th, 2009
9:37 am
DOB, thanks for that link on Jay Bennett. RIP. That really is terrible. He was such a talented guy and key contributor to Wilco when with the band. Sad news indeed.
TommyP
May 25th, 2009
9:41 am
Schafer’s Wafers: Your screenname is pretty gay, my friend. Just sayin’….
You asked why the Braves would bring up someone that is doing worse in AAA than what Schafer is doing in the majors??? Probably ’cause of what Blanco did last year in the majors. Did he tear it up? Not at all. But he played solid defense while also having a .365 OBP.
The bigger point of bringing him up, however, is to get Schafer down on the farm at AAA so he’s not completely ruined with what is going on at the major league level. The kid is absolutely struggling at the plate. Let him go down to Gwinnett, regain his stroke, take a deep breath, relax and realize attempt #1 at the majors was pretty difficult and figure out what he needs to change.
One more thing about Blanco. He wouldn’t be the first player that played in the majors for a season and when he was later sent to the minors struggled for awhile. Happens a lot, actually.
I hope I can “get with it” some day.
Schafer's Wafers
May 25th, 2009
9:48 am
Apparently today is not your day TommyP. Blanco has a worse avg/slugging/obp/ops against AAA pitchers than Schafer does against MLB Pitching. Yet you want Blanco to come up and “Stink” it up here instead of Schafer. When Schafer plays better defense/gets on base more. You have no logic why to do this.
TommyP
May 25th, 2009
9:56 am
LOL It’s to SAVE Schafer, Wafer. Do you not follow that logic?
Again, look at Blanco’s numbers from last year in the majors, not this year’s minor league numbers.
But let’s say that Blanco comes up and hits the same as Schafer has so far. At least Schafer is working on things in the minors and not completely destroying his confidence at the major league level.
The move is what’s better for Schafer.
SoWeGa Fanatic
May 25th, 2009
10:06 am
I don’t think Shafer’s confidence is wavering at all. We don’t need Blanco at all.
Rock On....(the denizen formerly known as Dadgum)
May 25th, 2009
10:24 am
May we all remember the fallen heroes that have served our great country on this beautiful Memorial Day. Hey even the Braves are on teh tube today!! Catch you on the next blog. Peace out.
Lew
May 25th, 2009
10:32 am
I don’t think Schafer has a confidence problem, either. How could he when Chipper has taken him under his (strained?) wing? Dude had struck out 20 times from May 1-11 and only 8 times since. I’d say Chipper’s influence is helping and his confidence will be fine. Now if the Kid could learn to play the carom.
buzzmeat
May 25th, 2009
11:00 am
Braves Paisan,
Funnny story, I wear my braves stuff to AA games too, I live here in Mobile Al. If Glavine get s a 3rd rehab i hope its here in Mobile!!!! june5-10
Braveheart
May 25th, 2009
11:02 am
Newscasters sounding just like in-game Braves bloggers:
http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/blog/ball_dont_lie/post/Local-news-team-react-to-LeBron-s-buzzer-beater-?urn=nba,165461
Why did the lady newscaster say she was canceling her Sports Illustrated subscription?
Eric from MO
May 25th, 2009
11:08 am
I agree with Tommy. Schafer has to go down. I dont know if Blanco is the guy I bring up but somebody needs to replace him. Otherwise in two years when we will finally get rid of Francouer, we will then have the same problem with Schafer. I dont think Tommy is talking about bringing up Blanco because he is great, it is because Schafer is failing.
Daybed Wagmoe
May 25th, 2009
11:15 am
that’s sad about Jay Bennett, some of his stuff was wilco’s best. “summerteeth” is by far my favorite album of theirs, and it’s pretty clear how much he influenced the band, both in terms of musicality as well as “creative restraint.”
Schafer's Wafers
May 25th, 2009
11:15 am
He is not failing with the job that Bobby gave him. Play defense in CF. Thats all he has to do. The hitting is a plus. Bobby said so himself. Multiple Times.
Steve from OH
May 25th, 2009
11:18 am
fwiw, Gregor Blanco is failing harder at Gwinnett. We don’t really have any options right now besides Schafer inside the organization. He’s still posting a respectable OBP and playing good D. Let it be, Braves fans, let it be…
A heartfelt thank you to all the Veterans and currently serving military men and women! Happy Memorial Day all!
18 Wheels of Love
May 25th, 2009
11:26 am
Wow, terrible news about Bennett. I loved seeing the tension between he and Jeff Tweedy on the Wilco DVD ‘I Am Going To Break Your Heart’. He was a true musician.
Bravetiger
May 25th, 2009
11:28 am
DOB – In the past when the Braves were taking a long flight and going to be late getting in to their destination and their was an early game the next day, that days starting pitcher would fly ahead so as to get a good nights rest. Do you know if Vasquez did that or went with the team?
Eric from MO
May 25th, 2009
11:28 am
So let me get this straight all he has to do is play defense? Why dont we still have Ryan Langerhans?
Schafer's Wafers
May 25th, 2009
11:31 am
Thats what Bobby wants Schafer to do. Dont shoot the messenger. Just get off the kids back. He is doing what he is supposed to do. He has been putting a good stroke on the ball here recently so maybe the tide is gonna turn in his favor.
J-X
May 25th, 2009
11:31 am
Schafer, is right were he needs to be. He is the best centerfielder in our system. While his avg. is suffering, his approach seems to be improving, less strikeouts and more well hit balls, even a few groudners and bunt single attempts. As long as he is playing solid defense and stays reasonably healthy, he isn’t going anywhere. Bobby supports his players and knowing that your manager is fully behind you is why he isn’t going to have confidence problems.
Steve from OH
May 25th, 2009
11:32 am
Dude, in 2002 (Langy’s last season with us) his OBP was .192. Huge difference.
Braves Paisan
May 25th, 2009
11:32 am
I am remembering two uncles from WW II, one who I knew, and one whom I never could: my Uncle Jack, an infantry sergeant, three purple hearts and a silver star, and my Uncle Dee, killed in action in France at age 19, July 1944, before I was born. We will never forget.
Steve from OH
May 25th, 2009
11:33 am
Should be 2007….
Eric from MO
May 25th, 2009
11:34 am
We arent on the kid’s back. Anyone who actually watches the games can tell the kid is lost. He needs to go back to the minors and work on a few things. May only take a month or two. Who knows, but he is clearly lost, even on defense.
Eric from MO
May 25th, 2009
11:35 am
But Steve offense doesnt matter…
J-X
May 25th, 2009
11:37 am
Sure is good that these players don’t get affected by the fans opinion. The only opinion that is going to affect Schafer right now is Bobby’s and say what you want about his managing, he supports his players and that is what Schafer needs right now. Getting sent down and hitting AAA pitching is not going to change a dang thing other than cause him to abandon some of the adjustments he needs up here. Lots of guys can get by on talent alone in AAA. Look at Franceour, he destroys minor league pitching, because all you have to do down there with that kind of talent is see the ball, hit the ball. Leave Schafer alone and let him major league adjustments, the only way he can, against major league pitching.
Schafer's Wafers
May 25th, 2009
11:39 am
Thats funny bc the kid has made some of the best plays in baseball this year. You hang onto a couple of bad plays he has made this year and wont let it go. And who exactly is going to take his place. Blanco?? Yeah lets bring him up…NOT
Steve from OH
May 25th, 2009
11:40 am
Uh, Schafer’s offense isn’t as bad as you think. Sure, his average is p!ss-poor right now, but he’s posting an average OBP. I mean, who do you suggest we get?
Braves Paisan
May 25th, 2009
11:42 am
We don’t have an alternative to Schafer. But there is a point where lack of offense trumps good defensive ability. Bobby is patience personified with his players, but if “Logan” goes south of the Mendoza line, it may be time to check the waiver wires or trade a second tier prospect for a replacement.
Supes
May 25th, 2009
11:44 am
Pretty good discussion going on over at Mark Bradley’s latest “blog article”. I’m boycotting this one until DOB gets up a Memorial Day Blog:)
Oh, and Jeff being traded would be a dream come true. Enough of the Jeff F. experiment. Let him figure out his swing “elsewhere”:nod:
Steve from OH
May 25th, 2009
11:45 am
Braves Paisan, I agree that if he’s not making some noticeable improvements by the All-Star break it might be wise to send him down, but it’s not time yet. Give the kid more time; I’m confident in his ability.
Supes
May 25th, 2009
11:45 am
Of course I was joking with the boycotting commment, and Jeff’s value is near an all time low right now. People were saying “his stock” couldn’t drop any farther than last year…well this year is LOWER. Why? Because he hasn’t shown consistancy and HITTING for power. Those were the 2 things people wanted to see (as in other scouts when shopping around for trades)
Eric from MO
May 25th, 2009
11:46 am
Schafers Wafers til this weekend I had watched almost all the games. However I dont recall one great play. He made some average plays that got was overhyped but no great play. I have to see him rob someone of a hit. Im starting to think you just listen to bloggers about the game.
Steve to be honest I dont know, but I would try someone. Hell, maybe you will catch a hot bat. Back in the day the Braves would bring someone up and he would provide a spark for a month or two. That may be all Schafer needs.
N8
May 25th, 2009
11:46 am
Braveheart, here’ some more for you. But for the most part, this should be common sense.
When the Braves have scored 4 or more runs, there record is 20-4. When they’ve scored 3 runs or less, it’s 3-16.
When the Braves have allowed 4 runs or less, they’re record is 17-6. When they have not, it’s 6-14.
I imagine, the ratio around the league is very similar. Most teams will win if they score 4 or 5 runs. Most teams will lose if they score 3 or less runs.
The real question is how often does each of those occur. As of right now it’s about even. The Braves have scored 3 runs or less 19 times. And have allowed 4 or more runs 20 times.
So to an extent, you are correct. We might need more pitching just as much as we need another bat. However, without digging deeper (because I really am tiring of the subject – though enjoying the back and forth), how many of those runs allowed, were by relievers that are no longer up, and won’t be anytime soon, and or are by guys like Moylan who is starting to come around from his surgery/recovery?
So, to an extent, you are right, adding quality innings from the 4th and 5th starters, would save the bullpen work, thus NOT allowing them to give up late runs. Though it’s going to happen from time to time. Even with Lowe, JJJ or Vazquez on the mound.
I suppose the two go hand in hand. Get better pitching, the offense will relax and perfom better, along with if the offense scores more consistently, the pitchers won’t feel like they have to be perfect.
I still think the quicker “fix” is getting a bat to put in the middle of the order (again, preferrably RH), so McCann and Chipper are protected. Especially from an oposing manager just lining up his LH relievers to face the heart of the order in late/close situations.
But in the end, I guess a team can never have enough starting pitching. I think you and I just disagree on WHERE that extra pitching should come from. I will be very disappointed if Hanson isn’t up to stay at some point in this season. I will also be shocked if he isn’t more productive than anybody else we send to the mound in the 5th starter’s role. Not expecting miracles from the kid. He will have growing pains.
But I think he’s shown about all he can show down there. Maybe I’m wrong and Glavine comes back and dominates, allowing Hanson to relax at AAA all year.
I just think the Braves need to find out what he is capable of doing in the majors before the deadline. It would open up more possiblities for trade options if he shows he can handle it. Along with helping them make a decision on Hudson in the off-season.
DOB on that note, do the 10/5 rules apply to Hudson? Technically, could they exercise the option, and THEN trade him? 2009 is his “5th” year with the Braves. Where does that rule come into play?
Cooper S
May 25th, 2009
11:46 am
I know Kawakami’s May numbers have been discussed, but here is his season line excluding his start versus Cincinnati on April 26th (when he gave up 8ER in 4.2 innings):
3-4 3.51 ERA 41 IP 18BB 41K 37H 3HR
Still too many walks but i’ll take those numbers from a 4/5 any day. Especially one that is still adjusting to the league.
Eric from MO
May 25th, 2009
11:48 am
Also Steve his OBP has been steadily declining.
J-X
May 25th, 2009
11:50 am
I don’t know about you guys, but I am less concerned with Schafer’s offense than I am with Chippers, I know he got the clutch knock yesterday, but come on, he hit that ball right into the first basemens glove, a little luck helped that one out. It just seems like everytime he hits it a week rollover to 2nd. He doesn’t seem dangerous at the plate at all. Does anybody else see this?
Schafer's Wafers
May 25th, 2009
11:50 am
Well Eric his avg is down but he is 3rd on the team in 2B and tied for the team lead in Walks. Yes he has the 51ks we know. Just dont give up on him to early. The team is winning dont mess with the chemistry. He is making changes too with Chipper helping him I have confidence he will turn it around.
Braves Paisan
May 25th, 2009
11:51 am
Eric from MO, that Schafer catch in that extra inning Mets day game was excellent. I was getting angry emails from my NYC Mets fans friends on that one.
J-X
May 25th, 2009
11:56 am
Schafer’s defense has been solid, he has overran a couple balls over his head. But that is the aggresive play we all loved during spring training. He has to make some adjustments, but when, WHEN, he gets it going he is going to be an impact player, which is something this team lacks. Blanco, is not on his best day, a full time major league center fielder.
Eric from MO
May 25th, 2009
11:59 am
Wafers did I say send him to the minors and leave him there? NO! I dont think I have anyway quit on him. He just clearly aint getting it. Even Steve said if he was still doing this at the all-star break send him down. Well the all-star break isnt that far away.
JX no, considering he has the 2nd highest average behind Infante, is 2nd in homeruns, and leads in OBP. Baseball is a game of failures, everybody gets out. The only thing that concerns me about Chipper is how many games he is going to sit out.
DirtyYuni
May 25th, 2009
12:03 pm
Cooper S-
You’ll take those numbers from a 4/5 any day. But not one you’re paying $20 million plus for the next three years. For that money, they’d better be a lot more like his last start than his previous ones.
TnBrian
May 25th, 2009
12:03 pm
Is it crazy to think maybe Francoeur ends up being traded to Texas along with a few others for Cruz? That hitting coach out there might be a key reason for it to work out in the Rangers minds. Sure looked liked he helped him in the offseason, but he’s struggled lately.
Eric from MO
May 25th, 2009
12:04 pm
JX that is my point, send him to AAA to help him get it going. Lets remember that he never played above AA before this year and he only played 84 games in AA. He has been rushed and if you watch him at the plate he looks like he was rushed.
Hack
May 25th, 2009
12:05 pm
J-X……really!?
You’re worried about Chipper Jones? He just won a batting title! He’s always clutch. He’s the most consistent hitter we have save for maybe B-Mac.
The only knock on Chipper is that he doesn’t play enough! “I can’t play, Bobby. My spleen hurts!”
Chipper Jones
May 25th, 2009
12:07 pm
What’s a spleen?
N8
May 25th, 2009
12:10 pm
Eric. I actually agree with you. If they feel he is the CF of the future (not sure what their “plans” for Gorkys are), then he needs to be taken care of in a decent manner.
That being said, I don’t fault them for bringing him up quickly and trying. In normal circumstances, with the rest of the offense clicking, I would even be OK with just using him for his defense in CF and letting him figure it out.
Either that, or I’d bring in the best bunting guy I could find to teach him that art, and let him use his legs to get on base.
But at this point, he (and the Braves) may be better served for the future with him correcting his approach at Gwinnett. Not sure Blanco is the answer. Not to rehash an old conversation many have had, but Josh Anderson would have been the PERFECT “option”.
Efrim
May 25th, 2009
12:10 pm
Zeke Spruill vs. Casey Kelly today @ 1:00 in Rome. Good matchup.
J-X
May 25th, 2009
12:10 pm
Eric, I know Chipper’s numbers are still looking ok. But when watching all of the games he just doesn’t seem to be his normal self. Last year he was hitting over 400 right now. But to produce that kind of average he sacrificed alot of his power. At times basically becoming a slap hitter. Now a slap hitter hitting 400 is fine. But his average has dropped off and the power hasn’t come back. yes he is 2nd on the team in home runs, 2nd on the worst team in baseball. Behind our catcher who has already spent two weeks on the DL. It’s not just Homerun power I am talking about, even the gap shots don’t seem to be there. Just an opinion, but when you think about it, doesn’t it seem concerning?
David O'Brien
May 25th, 2009
12:10 pm
Sounds like some focus has shifted to Schafer simply because Braves are otherwise doing so well in the past week or two. I mean, because he’s actually done better the past week than he was, albeit still doing quite poorly (at least offensively).
Bobby Cox has made it pretty clear, however, that he’s not expecting much offensively from Schafer, and is pleased as long as he keeps playing great D. So unless someone on the farm — someone’s who’s close to being major-league ready, that is — starts lighting it up, I don’t see any reason to believe they’d replace Schafer.
Braves Paisan
May 25th, 2009
12:14 pm
Right now we are playing excellent baseball. Let’s ride it out for a while.
Hack
May 25th, 2009
12:14 pm
Chipper was hitting .400 at this time last year because Tex was behind him.
I could hit .400 with a Tex or A-rod behind me
Schafer's Wafers
May 25th, 2009
12:15 pm
Thank You, DOB a voice of reason.
N8
May 25th, 2009
12:15 pm
Braveheart, one thing I was going to add, and this is just my opinion, to my last post to you, is that after looking at how teams fair when scoring 4 or more runs, and when their pitchers allowe less than four runs, it STILL baffles me to no end, why pitching 6 innings and allowing 3 runs (4.50 ERA) is considered a quality start.
Maybe I have a differening opinion of what “quality” is. But by making a statistical category called “QUALITY START”, it gives the appearance that it’s a good thing. Appears to me, that it’s merely average. Not sure why we want to praise guys for being average.
I think the qualification for a “quality start”, either needs to be changed to less than 3 runs, or make it 7 IP instead of 6.
Like I said. Just my opinion. Nothing special or too “quality” about a 4.50 ERA.
J-X
May 25th, 2009
12:16 pm
Eric, on Schafer, do you really think he will be able to make the needed adjustments in the minors? Or do you think he will be able to go down and face pitchers that can no longer blow him away and revert back to allowing his talent to carry him thru, this is why so many players have sophmore slumps, because most of them have never had to make any real adjustments until they get up to the majors. The level of scouting reports up here are so different, every pitcher you face knows everyone of your weaknesses, this isnt always the case in the minors, does that make sense at all?
Eric from MO
May 25th, 2009
12:18 pm
N8 I dont blame them either, but it to me we are hurting him long term.
JX no it isnt a concern. He had Tex behind him last year when he was hitting .400 and he is hitting his career average. He is having a good year other than missing games.
Eric from MO
May 25th, 2009
12:19 pm
Actually JX he is above his career average and above his career OBP.
Supes
May 25th, 2009
12:19 pm
Hack
“Chipper was hitting .400 at this time last year because Tex was behind him.
I could hit .400 with a Tex or A-rod behind me”
I think this maybe the most ignorant and foolish statement I’ve ever read on a blog…ever. You may wanna take that back…unless it’s really you…Barry? Bonds? Is that you? Still trying to get back to playing MLB? Good one Barry:)
DOB,
I agree with Bobby on this one (I know, what am I thinking)…but until I see someone else tearing up the minors I don’t think Jordan Schafer should be sent down just yet. Let’s see what happens in June. Maybe he turns it around a bit?
I still would like to see Brian Barton up here instead of Greg Norton, just so the Braves have a legit OF who can play all 3 OF positions.
Right now it’s Jordan, Jeff, Matt/Garret and that’s it. No other true OF on the team.
Pure speculation…but what would it take to acquire Nate McClouth in a trade (if the pirates were looking to trade him)? Would Hanson, Heyward or Freeman any of those guys we would have to part with 1 of them I’m sure.
Steve from OH
May 25th, 2009
12:19 pm
Here’s a stat I wasn’t expecting to see…
The Braves have hit 33 homers as a team this year. The Mets have hit 29. Wierd, huh?
Eric from MO
May 25th, 2009
12:21 pm
JX do you believe he is making adjustments here or do you think he is just saying its ok, as long as I play defense? He is striking out less but he is still striking out alot for a nonpower guy.
Braves Paisan
May 25th, 2009
12:24 pm
Steve from OH — D Wright has THREE so far!
I am trying to find out what is up with Reyes, listed as having tendenitis behind the knee. Hell, I have run 10ks with tendenitis behind the knee. DOB, any rumors?
Hack
May 25th, 2009
12:25 pm
Really, Supes? Ever?
You must be new here!
TnBrian
May 25th, 2009
12:28 pm
Well you know DOB, if it’s not bad news, there’s no news at all for a lot of people.
PWHjort
May 25th, 2009
12:32 pm
Efrim,
I watched Spruill’s last start. He gave up 6 runs (5 runs), on 9 hits (1 HR) and a walk in 4 innings with only 1 strikeout. Although he got absolutely NO HEL
Roman Gal
May 25th, 2009
12:32 pm
Oh man…I’m glad DOB got here before I could. Well, I should say that ya’ll should be glad DOB got here before I could.
For those of you who think Blanco can play defense just as well as Schafer, think again. And really, could ya’ll have worse timing? He’s starting to make more contact lately, and honestly, Chipper is probably the best hitting coach a young player could have. If you think he has “confidence problems” now, sending him down would only make things worse.
I’m convinced that some people just like to stir up trouble. For christsakes!! He got on base twice yesterday!
Eric from MO
May 25th, 2009
12:33 pm
Whats odd is some Tommy guy brought it up and we havent heard from him in hours.
Joebrave
May 25th, 2009
12:33 pm
Finally!!! The Jeffy poo Frenchfry watch has begun!!! How many more pitiful starts until he is GONE?? Not many i venture to say!! and when that time comes YIPPPEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!
CB
May 25th, 2009
12:34 pm
What should give Braves more hope for the rest of season is the starting pitching 1-3 being so strong, the improvement of KK his last few outings. KK has shown when his control is better he can get hitters out. I think he can end with a sub 4.00 ERA. Now if we can get these batters heated up!
PWHjort
May 25th, 2009
12:35 pm
Efrim,
I personally watched Zeke’s last start. He gave up 6 runs (5 earned) on 9 hits (1 HR) and 1 BB in 4 innings with only 1 strikeout. Granted, he got absolutely no help from his defense and he pitched a LOT better than the line indicates, he was getting hit pretty hard at times. I talked to a scout (longtime friend of mine) who said he looked like he was rushing his mechanics and trying to overthrow his fastball, especially when he was behind in the count. His breaking stuff and change-up were good though. Hopefully he’ll adjust and turn in a good one today.
GTI in Chicago
May 25th, 2009
12:35 pm
Forgive me, but this isn’t a post about the Braves.
Instead, I felt the need to thank DOB and the blog at large for turning me onto THE WIRE.
There was always so much good talk on here about the show, that back in January, when somebody(I think it was 18 Wheels) posted an alert on here that the whole series was available in a big sale at Amazon, I bought it.
I just finished the last episode of the last season this morning. INCREDIBLE. That series is one of the best things I’ve ever seen on any kind of screen. I’m profoundly sad it’s over.
So, thanks DOB, thanks 18 Wheels, and thanks to all the denziens.
Random
May 25th, 2009
12:35 pm
Lew (May 24th, 2009 9:27 am): “Uvular thinking?
Yeah — full-throated mouth-thinking.
Whenever I see one of those bottom feeding, mouth breathers spouting off, I sometimes picture a Tex Avery type uvula in full throb.
Tomahawkin (May 24th, 2009 12:43 pm): “I’m calling for a sweep, hopefully we Spot Double J some runs early and he pitches 7 innings giving up 2 runs”
Hat’s off to ya — close enough.
J-X
May 25th, 2009
12:36 pm
Guys I realize Chipper’s numbers have been reasonable, and right at or above his career average. but here are some numbers I have looked up, take a look and tell me what you think.
He is on pace now for 16 homeruns, career avg is 29.
On pace for 64 rbi, career avg of 98.
148 hits, career avg of 162.
24 doubles, career avg of 32.
220 total bases, career avg 287.
Lastly he is on pace for 460 at bats, career avg of 520, so he isn’t that far off that mark, which shows his production is down, not just playing time.
What do you guys think?
Joebrave
May 25th, 2009
12:39 pm
Why the questions on Chipper??? Have you ever played the game??? He has played this year mostly with no protection in the line-up!!! in other words, if B-Mac aint playing he isn’t going to get decent pitches to look at!!! get it ,got it ,Good!!!!
J-X
May 25th, 2009
12:40 pm
Eric, that is a good point about whether or not schafer is making an effort to make adjustments now. I could know. but I think he is because while the results haven’t occured, his approach looks better, less ks and slightly more ground balls and bunt attempts. What do you think? Do you really think he isn’t trying to make adjustments at all. If so what makes you think that? Other than the fact that his avg hasn’t increased?
WestPalmDawg
May 25th, 2009
12:40 pm
WHO WILL THE BRAVES TAKE WITH THEIR FIRST PICK? DOES ANYONE THINK WHEELER WILL STILL BE AROUND AT #7?