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Random
May 31st, 2009
2:27 am
N8 (May 30th, 2009 10:12 pm): “My main thought process (to get back to actually baseball talk – instead of idiot bashing), in Wren needing 3 OF’s, is that it wouldn’t hurt us to have 3 viable options for platooning all three spots.”
Platooning is all about taking advantage of the RH/LF pitcher batter “platoon” advantages. Ie, it’s all offensive strategy/tactics.
It works, as long as the platoon partners’ defensive abilities are roughly equivalent.
With the corner OF positions, it’s not that hard to find platoon partners with roughly equivalent defensive abilities.
But with the more defensively critical CF position, you’d be hard-pressed to find an adequate platoon pair.
Let’s say you find a CF who’s every bit as good defensively as your CF (Schafer), and hits as poorly but from the other side of the plate.
Why would you put him on your roster, when you’ve already got a good glove, poor bat CF?
Conversely, you find a CF who’s every bit as good defensively as your CF (Schafer), but hits tons better (from the other side of the plate). Why would you keep Schafer?
I guess what I’m saying is that you would never platoon in CF ’cause it’s a critical defensive position.
Otherwise, I agree with you completely — whatever your point might have been — you got a lot of cred with me, dude. (Or dudette.)
Slugger (http://www.theweeklyscene.com)
May 31st, 2009
2:28 am
Elon vs. Georgia Tech at Russ Chandler Stadium tomorrow, 3PM.
Tech’s 1-6 in elimination games in the regionals. I think Elon’s 0-4…
Should be interesting, but hopefully my Phoenix can pound out a win!
GO ELON.
Random
May 31st, 2009
2:29 am
That shoulda been “the RH/LH pitcher batter ‘platoon’ advantages”.
Apologies to both of you who might care.
Dumbfound
May 31st, 2009
2:29 am
The post at 1:43- Guess who the Braves chose over Gary Matthews Jr., Ryan Langerhans ! That my point ! The Braves have always chosen the wrong players to make their team !! And it’s coming to light !!!!!!!
jed
May 31st, 2009
2:32 am
braves are in a tough situation with francoeur. as has been stated, it’s hard to trade this early in the season, so instead of being stuck with JF every day, why not start a RF platoon? options there would be brandon jones or greg norton. i hear a collective groan from the blog, and yeah, i know norton’s been awful so far this year, but one would imagine he’d produce better with more at-bats. from 2006 to 2008, he hit .281 against RHP. right now, francoeur is hitting just .226 against RHP. as for brandon jones, he’s hitting .330 against RHP this year, although that’s in gwinnett. the point here is not who should be in the platoon; the point’s that there simply should be a platoon, or else we’re going to have a similar JF situation to what we saw last year. with schafer in CF for defense (only), there’s just no way our anemic offense can suffer that. nor is there any need to.
Sir Stealth
May 31st, 2009
2:38 am
Hey N8, you’re probably not around, but Sir Dipsh!t here. Let me just say, me thinks the lady doth protest too much. You absolutely ask for a pat on the back for predicting negative results for the Braves. It is how you deal with the mediocrity you describe – “I called it, I’ve been wallowing in it, so when the Braves fail, at least I can come on and say I was right. If the Braves surprise us and win, then I can be happy then too.”
Nobody here likes what they see from the Braves offense. We all wish the organization had done something differently to have something more in the outfield, or whatever could be helping us. But I despise the mentality of “I called it that we didn’t have enough, so when we lose, at least I can come on and proclaim my knowledge and defend my negativity. Everyone else is just drinking the kool-aid if all they say is that they hope the Braves win.” You used a tough loss to come on and justify your use of the blog as a vent, when most fans could find no use for such a disappointing result. So whether you think the Braves suck or are merely mediocre, I don’t care. I’m just sick of those who use “I told you so” to help themselves get through the frustrations that occur in a baseball season, ever more frequently in recent Braves seasons.
N8
May 31st, 2009
2:42 am
Good point Random (about CF). I guess my point had more to do with Wren quickly finding more “platoon” type guys (like Branyan and DeRosa), that can play multiple positions, rather than going all out for one big bat.
Just giving the lineup so versatility and depth (for when Chipper and Escobar miss more games), seems to make more sense. If for nothing more than our string of bad luck with injuries.
For instance, if Wren were to go out and Gett Holliday from Oakland. More than likely a deal like that would cost us an arm and a leg. What happens if Holliday gets hurt? I know that’s kind of a chicken sh!t approach. But this team can’t afford to make another big deal and MISS.
The odds are that if Wren made a series of smaller deals, A) it would cost less prospects (and not as good of ones – one would think), and B) it leaves some margin for error on said deals.
Because, since our outfield has been SO FRICKIN BAD, all it would really take to give us a few more wins (with the pitching we’ve gotten – and what should be on the way), merely AVERAGE outfielders would suffice.
Sure it would be nice to have the 40 HR guy batting cleanup. But I’d rather have all three outfielders hitting .275 with doubles power and the occasional HR, than one big bat and still be left with two crappy ones.
Just seems more logical, and less risky. This team isn’t close enough to make a Tex like trade. Especially since the Tex trade didn’t actually work out. Time to play it safe, yet not stand pat.
Gutfeld
May 31st, 2009
2:44 am
Roman Gal
I’d been debating about whether to use dynamite on some of the larger ant hills. A shotgun would probably make more sense though. I tried peeing on a few of the ant hills recently, but it didn’t do any good. Even dropped a deuce on one of them, but to no avail. Thanks for the suggestion though. I’ll give it a shot (no pun intended).
Random
May 31st, 2009
2:52 am
nolie –
Yeah, well, that’s pretty much what I was saying –
Hanson = Braves future;
Medlen (and Morton, and JoJo), etc — even Glavine nowadays) = cannon fodder.
Braves had no (or negligible) “financial” considerations about bringing Medlen up when they needed someone to fill the breech. (Or “breach” — I’m unsure right now which is more correcter).
Dictionary
May 31st, 2009
2:57 am
“Correcter” isn’t a word. We must maintain proper grammar or all is lost.
N8
May 31st, 2009
3:00 am
Fair enough Sir Stealth. But my tone, and attitude towards this team this year has been FAR from as dramatic and negative as it has been in the past. Haven’t been watching as many games. Listening to most of them.
I’m not looking for a pat on the back. Not looking for ANYBODY to say “hey, good job predicting that this team is going to be mediocre again”.
That would be silly. It didn’t take a rocket scientist to predict that. Seriously. As for me commenting on the “tough loss”? There ALL tough losses. A 10-2 loss, is no easier to take than a 2-1 loss in 16 innings, as a fan. A loss sucks either way. Even games that are blowouts, usually come down to one or two plays that could have kept the big innings from happening.
But with Bobby’s “hack n jack” philosophy (which is silly when you’ve got no “jack” anywher in the lineup), it’s too predictible that when this team pounds out 10 runs one day, the odds are they will not the next. Has been that way for years. Even when they were winning.
If you’ve got a specific problem with me. Vent it out my friend. I’ve NEVER had any issues with you. Not until tonight. I made a harmless comment (the only one of the day to that point – really had just walked in the door and fired up the mlbradio to catch the end of the game), and based on what other nonsense I saw being spewed on the blog, it pissed me off that you chose my “one liner” to jump on.
Sorry for the name calling. I usually don’t go there. But I’ve been going out of my way to be objective (yet staying sarcastic) for about 3-4 weeks now. But my blog “history” has apparently soured people to be looking for anger in my posts, even when it ain’t there.
I stopped freaking out about the sloppy play, about two weeks into this season. Got better things to do with my time. But still enjoy blogging and come here for the “pulse” of what’s going on in the club-house from DOB.
Most days, until the last couple of weeks, I read, and didn’t participate. You know what? The tone of the blog didn’t change. Has nothing to do with me. People are fed up. As am I. But don’t lump me in with people that use the word “suck”. Even in the worst rant about Jeffy, I’ve done nothing but spew the stats (mostly when in “conversation” with another blogger). I haven’t personally attacked him.
Haven’t called him “suckoeur” and a whole other slew of names that don’t need to be thrown around.
He’s not getting the job done. Period. End of story. Discussion over. If you’ve got a problem with that, take it up with HIM, not the bloggers who discuss it.
NOT ONCE have I ripped Jordan this year. Early on I was on BOBBY for not leaving Vazquez in, because I thought he was traded for to “eat innings”. Even when I said Vazquez was merely a .500 pitcher with league average results, DESPITE his outstanding “stuff”, it wasn’t like I was making stuff up.
I’ve REPEATEDLY stated that I like KJ. Just NOT in the leadoff spots, and I think his defense is average (at best). Please tell me that’s not “news” to you? Chipper, Escobar and McCann are great. When in the lineup. No other comments needed.
Garret Anderson, to this point, was a waste of money. Find me somebody who doesn’t think so, I’ll find you somebody that probably goes to Garret’s house for Christmas, and wants a big gift.
Kawakami’s money could have been Spent on Smoltz. Just my opinion. Nothing more. He’s been fine. Up and down, sure. But what do you expect for 8 million per? Cy young awards? Hardly.
Hanson should be up. Period. Norton should be out. Period. Bobby is Bobby. I’ll leave it at that.
Sorry that ONE sarcastic line about scoring a bunch last night and losing today set you off. Ironically, I counted 3 other people that made similar comments. Yet you chose to attack me, when I posted mine.
Like I said. You got a problem with me, scroll past my posts. I’d do the same to you, unless you were a Mets troll.
David O'Brien
May 31st, 2009
3:03 am
Just back from a phenomenal performance by Lucinda Williams. I’ve seen her seven or eight times in the past 15 years, and I think this was probably the best of all those shows. Her band, Buick 6, is the finest I’ve ever heard with her. They’re tremendous, much more of a rockin’, muscular band than some she’s had in the past, which were a little more bluesy/country/rootsy. This band has those elements, of course (playing her tunes, that’s essential), but they absolutely rock, a tight four-piece with one of the better drummers I’ve heard in a while. Seemed like a lot of her earlier stuff and some of the recent stuff, too, all was energized by the band, as was her own playing.
The band also serves as the opening act, sans Lucinda, and their instrumental set is definitely worth showing up in time to see in full. They do about a 6-7 song set, about 45 minutes.
Then after a short break, Lucinda and the band came out and they played two solid hours, including two encores. Loved it because she played stuff from her earliest albums, including the title cut from Happy Woman Blues, all the way up through Car Wheels, Essence, West, Little Honey … all of her albums were represented. She was in fine voice, in a great mood, and the acoustics at this place, the Mesa Arts Center, were top of the heap. Great, great show, finished with her over of AC/DC’s “It’s A Long Way To The Top” with the band ragin’, and then a second encore with her alone on acoustic, doing Jimi Hendrix’ “Angel.”
Man, what a terrific show….
Bravos2249: As to your 11:10 p.m. comment. Funny you mentioned bringing up an outfield as a fifth infielder in that situation. I said the same thing to Barry Bloom the veteran reporter who was filling in for Bowman today for mlb.com. We were talking about how there’s so little you can do in that situation, how you almost have to bring in your infield, and how there was no way Cox was going to walk the bases loaded with the way that’s gone for his and other teams this year. I said same thing you did, bring up an outfielder to give you another infielder there, since almost any fly ball is going to bring in the run anyway.
uga-brave
May 31st, 2009
3:05 am
how about this stat. francoeur has a .143 obp, .148 slg, and a .131 avg in 61 at bats when behind in the count.
N8
May 31st, 2009
3:05 am
stealth, kinda went off there, but meant to touch on these lines:
“You absolutely ask for a pat on the back for predicting negative results for the Braves.”
Really. When did I ask for that? Seriously? Maybe “one on one” with another blogger, have I made a comment like:
“I have to admit, I was wrong about Vazquez’s hot start not lasting. I’m not afraid to admit it. Would you admit it if I were right?”
But NEVER have I requested a “pat on the back”. Stop making sh!t up.
Also:
“It is how you deal with the mediocrity you describe – “I called it, I’ve been wallowing in it, so when the Braves fail, at least I can come on and say I was right. If the Braves surprise us and win, then I can be happy then too.””
Please don’t say the words “you describe”, then proceed to put something I never said, into quotations. You’re reaching and making more sh!t up. Speculating. Nothing more. Otherwise, you’d actually have a real comment of mine to quote.
Turd Ferguson
May 31st, 2009
3:07 am
Did someone call my name?
Random
May 31st, 2009
3:07 am
N8 (May 31st, 2009 2:42 am) –
Good points.
I think I’m just about ready to endorse jed’s proposition to put a platoon in RF.
Give Jeff a blow two days out of three (or thereabouts — whatever) — let him reflect upon the errors of his ways — and also send a message that the team is SERIOUS and that no one is “untouchable”.
Luigi
May 31st, 2009
3:11 am
They would give Francoeur a day off now and then if they had options that would be an upgrade. Sitting Francoeur to play someone with an OPS equal to or lower than his doesn’t accomplish much.
N8
May 31st, 2009
3:13 am
“The band is the opening act, sans Lucinda, and they’re instrumental set is definitely worth showing up in time to see it in full.” DOB
Obviously you showed up to see it all, thus the comment about how it’s worth showing up for. But you comment, highlights something that has always annoyed me. Why on earth to people show up late for the opening acts on a regular basis?
I can understand if you absolutely hate the opening act, and live in a city with traffic and what not. No rush getting down there. But that’s just always bugged me. You paid for the ticket, why not see the “whole show”?
Back in 1990, a drummer buddy of mine bought me a ticke to go see RUSH (I’m not a huge fan but respect their ability to play), and the opening act was Eric Johnson, whom I really liked at the time. It was at the Target Center in Minneapolis, and the place was about 10-20 percent full for Eric Johnson.
Some of my favorite bands as a kid, ended being bands that I might not have paid attention to, had I not seen them open up for somebody I really liked. Which, back in the day, was the purpose of an opening act. For one to give older bands an outlet and reason to bring the young crowd out. And to “warm up the crowd”, which I always thought was a little silly. Can’t remember the last time I’ve seen a national act, need “help” getting the crowd into it if they paid money to see them.
Nowdays, it seems like bands only have opening acts, so the fan doesn’t feel “ripped off” for paing 100 bucks for a ticket and ONLY seeing one band.
It used to mean something for a young band to get the “opening slot” on a major tour for some exposure. Hard to get that exposure, when nobody is there.
David O'Brien
May 31st, 2009
3:24 am
Just saw that Texas beat Boston College 3-2 in 25 innings today. TWENTY-FIVE!
Random
May 31st, 2009
3:24 am
uga-brave (May 31st, 2009 3:05 am): “how about this stat. francoeur has a .143 obp, .148 slg, and a .131 avg in 61 at bats when behind in the count”
Small wonder that he swings so often at the first pitch, huh?
Or did you have some other point?
Dictionary (May 31st, 2009 2:57 am): “‘Correcter’ isn’t a word. We must maintain proper grammar or all is lost.”
It’s context-driven, okay? — please note that I employed the phrase “more correcter”.
Got it?
Sir Stealth (May 31st, 2009 2:38 am): “Sir Dipsh!t here.”
Thanks for finally coming out of the closet — I’m sure it’s a HUGE relief for you.
And we’re all grateful, as well.
Sir Stealth
May 31st, 2009
3:26 am
N8, believe it or not, I actually find your response pretty fair. I am definitely sensitive to comments made after losses like that and jumped on your comment based more on past history than what can honestly said to have been displayed lately. So fair enough. I didn’t think that the quotations were presented in a way that could have been interpreted to try to represent actual words you said, but rather, a pattern exhibited by posters that bothers me. I do think that that pattern involves an implied attempt to be recognized for being right when the Braves do not succeed, but I respect the extent to which you have, in more recent history, not resorted to the less than constructive vein of comments that bother me when dominating a visible forum for Braves discourse. I’m obviously just nobody and nobody has to care if I’m bothered by what people say, and maybe you think I’m an a-hole for jumping on comments, but that’s where I’m coming from.
Sir Stealth
May 31st, 2009
3:28 am
Good one Random, supplied my own personal drumroll for that.
N8
May 31st, 2009
3:29 am
DOB, do you prefer to see bands in a more intimate setting at a big club, or small “theater” type setting, or big shows in a stadium?
In June I’m going to see Kings X in Fargo at a pretty small venue, and can’t wait. Used to go to the Mirage in Minneapolis to see many shows, and have always liked the smaller venues. But at the same time, can appreciate the production that goes into a stadium tour like what Metallica and Guns N’ Roses did on their tour together. Without the three hours in between them of course, because Axl had to “mentaly prepare” to go on stage.
Random
May 31st, 2009
3:36 am
Sir Stealth (May 31st, 2009 3:28 am): “Good one”
Just riding your joke, Sir.
N8
May 31st, 2009
3:39 am
Stealth I had just posted longer version of what boils down to an apology and a “thank you” for acknowledging my “recent effort” to tone it back a bit. But I think the blog ate it.
Anyhow, it’s all good my man.
Sir Stealth
May 31st, 2009
3:43 am
Tom Glavine’s imminent return seems so remarkably under the radar to me. He’s one of the all-time greats, a legendary Brave, and yet he seems to be sneaking back in. Those who notice don’t seem to want him back at all. It’s somewhat bizarre at a time with so many new pitchers coming to Atlanta through free agency, trade, or promotion from the minors. Let’s hope he’s still got it.
I’m not sure that anyone does geographic emotion as well as Lucinda Williams. Love seeing Lake Charles posted multiple times on this blog. DOB, you know what’s up, wish I could stumble onto a Lucinda show like that. Seein’ Steve Earle from the front row in about a week.
jed
May 31st, 2009
3:52 am
stealth–though i’d love it if glavine came back and pitched well, it just seems unlikely to me at this point. probably to others as well. that combined with hanson waiting in the minors might explain the lack of hubbub… “geographic emotion”? i think you’ve coined a new phrase there. yeah yeah…i see what you’re saying. she evokes place well, no doubt. sometimes i think it’s a little too easy, though, when she drops town names left and right. she’s great though, absolutely.
Sir Stealth
May 31st, 2009
3:54 am
N8, I appreciate it man. Here’s to ya for keepin’ the blog rollin’ at 4 a.m., my shamefully baseball-content-free rants notwithstanding. Go Kris Medlen. May you find major league success and may Braves bloggers everywhere find the power to spell your name correctly. May the Braves please see Escobar, Chipper, and B-Mac in the lineup together at the same time, so our offense, while modest, can at least reach it’s respectable potential. Let’s get a win.
Sir Stealth
May 31st, 2009
3:59 am
Jed, pretty much agree with everything you said there, both Tommy and Lucinda. And still, while absolutely easy to drop those places, and a method not unique to Lucinda (though maybe perfected by her), it still does it for me, can’t help it. She could release a travel guide book on tape for AAA and I would eat it up.
jed
May 31st, 2009
4:07 am
you know who else does the town-dropping well is dylan on ‘time out of mind’. check out “trying to get to heaven.”
apparently little response on my suggestion they make a platoon out of RF. maybe it’s already been talked about here and i missed it. seems like the only decent option right now.
N8
May 31st, 2009
4:12 am
Stealth, nothing better to do at 3:00 am (my time), the wife went to Deadwood SD with her mom, sister and aunts for the weekend. So here I sit.
As for Glavine, I agree. I think he’ll be fine. If Hanson wasn’t waiting in the wings, people might be more excited about it. I’m not saying Tommy will average 7 or 8 innings like in years past. But he should bring some form of stability to the 5th spot in the rotation. Hanson’s day will come, I’m sure of that.
Perhaps that will give Braves fans, their own version of “Fernando Mania”?
The cool thing about Glavine, is that either possible outcome will be “good” for the fans. Either he is just fine, and Hanson has to wait for an injury, a trade or Kawakami to not be the “answer” in the rotation. Or, Glaivine will fail miserably, and Hanson will get his shot. I don’t think that Bobby or Wren will be forced to make a choice between Glavine or Hanson if Glavine stinks it up.
Glavine is too much of a “pro’s pro” and has too much pride to embarrass himself. He also knows what’s at stake for the team. His legacy has already been cemented in Braves history, along with MLB’s. His plaque in Cooperstown will be waiting for him 5 years after he calls it quits.
One reason I’d like to see Glavine succeed (though I’m over anxious for Hanson), is that we need a lefty in the rotation to break it up a bit.
I also really hope that Morton has turned the corner. If either to be used as trade bait, or to anchor the bottom half of the rotation for a few years in Atlanta.
Nothing bad can come out of Morton succeeding at Gwinnett like he has in recent weeks. Nothing.
N8
May 31st, 2009
4:25 am
“apparently little response on my suggestion they make a platoon out of RF.” jed
Not sure if it was tonight or before that you brought this up. But I mentioned it last night, or the night before. While Jeff’s power is down all the way around, his overall production is significantly better against lefties.
My argument for a platoon with him wa that it would be better “value” for us if we used him against lefties, rather than dumped for what would literally be nothing, since his trade value is as low as it’s gonna get (knock on wood).
If the Braves are unwilling to go get a guy like Branyan to platoon with him (though somebody pointed out last night that Branyan hits considerably less when in RF as opposed to 1B or 3B), they might be better off just bringing up Brandon Jones and going with a straight platoon of those two.
Or if Bobby were to determine that Diaz deserves regular AB’s, they could play Diaz everyday in RF (not sure his arm is good enough to be over there), and platoon Garret and Jeff. Or go with two platoons. Garret/Diaz in LF, along with Brandon/Jeff in RF. Dumping Nortn for Jones.
But Branyan is intriguing with Infante out. He can play OF, he can play 3B, and he could backup Kotchman at 1B, along with Prado. He (Branyan), seems like a perfect fit for a team with not a lot of money to have available to add a big bat, and not willing to give up a ton of top prospects.
I’ve stated it many times in the past couple of days. I think two moves that could go along way, while not “exciting” the blog with a big name, would be to trade for DeRosa and Branyan. Then ride it out, and see how close we get come July 31.
Worst case scenario, if it doesn’t make any difference, is that we could “flip” one or both of them at the deadline, or have a more realistic vision of how close we actually are to making a run, and THEN add a bigger name if needed.
Not sure what it would take to get both of those guys. But one would think that it would “cost” less than adding one big name. Though I could be wrong. Cleveland seems to have quite a few teams interested in DeRosa. So who knows?
jed
May 31st, 2009
4:46 am
there are all sorts of possibilities for a platoon in RF. i think the safest bet, as well as the easiest move to make, is to bring up brandon jones and platoon him in right. that should stop the bleeding some and buy time until teams start trading. i was originally going to suggest giving LF to diaz and moving anderson over to RF, but i dont think he has a good enough arm to do that.
what a resurgence from branyan, though, yes. if they could get him soon, it’d be a smart move. and i’ve always been a fan of derosa’s, but i think he’ll be moved at the deadline. i’d probably go with jones first and see how that pans out. i’m glad to see somebody else agrees that a platoon makes sense.
i doubt they do it though. on one hand, cox is … well we all know he’ll stick with one of “his” players forever. on the other, i think front office would rather hope for JF to make some sort of resurgence to raise his trade value. all of which adds up to a repeat of last year with JF, and if they allow that to continue, we can forget about this season.
PWHjort
May 31st, 2009
5:51 am
Way to once again use my quotes out of context, Area Scout.
PWHjort
May 31st, 2009
7:17 am
Question: Who here would’ve gone with Campillo, Acosta, or Moylan in the 11th last night? Obviously you want to try to save one of Moylan or Acosta to potentially finish the game, but why Bennett? I’m pretty sure all of his losses came in tie-game walk off situations. Why use him in another if you don’t have to?
Prattvillenolzfan
May 31st, 2009
8:51 am
Hey N8…
I agree with you 100% about not listening to opening acts…
I know you & I’ve discussed this before, but it bears repeating…
In 1982/83 while at Fla. State, the J. Giels band was performing…
I won 2 tickets on the radio, and went because there really wasn’t nothing else to do..(Which, considering it’s Tallahassee, it’s not that surprising!!!!!!)
Called a buddy, we went. He was very persuasive about going to see the opening act, said they were wonderful, had just released their first album. I asked him about the band, said they were some progressive/christian/punk band from Ireland, or as he said…someplace over there….
We went, I was floored……The band blew away J. Giels. Even J. Giels members said they would be lucky to open for this band in a couple of years….They were right..
Thus began my love affair with U2…….
Prattvillenolzfan
May 31st, 2009
8:58 am
One more thing…
after the concert, we were hanging out in one of the college bars that had a band….
Guess who walks in……………..
U2..
They then proceeded to play (with the band on stage, then themselves) until closing time….
Just jamming, playing some of theirs, as well as others songs….
The bar when we went in had maybe 25/30 people in it..within an hour, there were over 200, the bar owners had to stop letting people in, it was so crowded……
Best free concert I’ve ever seen.
bravesin6
May 31st, 2009
9:30 am
PWHjort (May 30th, 2009 9:51 pm): “Usually when scouts see left handers that can throw 95+ they immediately want them on the mound. Most left handers that have good arms wind up on the mound. Kind of my theory why you have never seen a left-handed catcher.”
How many right hand catchers mitts have you seen?
PWHjort
May 31st, 2009
9:36 am
Bravesin6,
The question is why haven’t we seen any left-handed catcher’s mitts. And I don’t think there’s a good answer to the question.
Slow Roller
May 31st, 2009
9:36 am
Fire Terry Pendleton…..Rudy Jaramillo is working wonders with Andruw Jones….is Wade Boggs available for batting coach?
PWHjort
May 31st, 2009
9:38 am
Let me re-phrase that, I’ve never heard a good answer to the question.
Terry
May 31st, 2009
9:40 am
I saw yesterday’s game thru 6 innings. Looked like Vazquez was luckey to get thru the 6th. I hope the blogs addressed Bobby staying with Vazquez too long in the game, until it was tied, before going to relief.
dogsbrekky
May 31st, 2009
9:42 am
So I jinx us again
I get home after 6 and it is 2-0, I listen to the rest of the game and wallaaaaaaaaaaaaaa………… choke a mundo..
Music – having a “The Who” weekend, so far this am
Who’s Next
WHo are You
Odds and Sods
dogsbrekky
May 31st, 2009
9:45 am
Prattville – I saw U2 in Perth Aussie in 1983 just after they made it big with War etc……….. an awesome live act from the opening song ..
Bono walks on stage and starts “This is Gloria”…. crowd goes nuts for 100 minutes..unbelievable…. I was in the 4th row
Lew
May 31st, 2009
9:46 am
Some of you who post overnight really need a new hobby. Sex maybe? Make sure you use protection, though. Some of you really don’t need to reproduce.
Vinings Jim
May 31st, 2009
9:50 am
Lew – thanks – you seriously gave me a laugh out loud moment.
Braves73
May 31st, 2009
9:54 am
Bobby Cox is the greatest manager this game has ever seen…truly a mastermind. I think he needs to give the whole team a day off and bring the Gwinnett Braves up. I mean, he doesn’t mind crippling his team offensively by giving key guys a “day off” in the 48th game of the season…truly brilliant!
Lew
May 31st, 2009
9:59 am
Braves73-Bobby gave Chipper a day off so that maybe he didn’t need a stay on the DL for his sprained toe-he has trouble batting RH. AS for McCann-ever hear of giving a catcher a day off when you play the infamous Day Game After A NIght Game? It’s a brand new theory that no one has ever heard of. He was actually thinking outside the box.
richbrave
May 31st, 2009
10:01 am
Well DAVID, hope your shortened evening plans went well. Unfortunately, the lengthing plans of our heroes did not go so smoothly. BENNETT……through the XM feed, as soon as I heard the ARIZONA announcers begin talking about the new pitcher in the bottom of the eleventh, I had a sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach. Of course, I should have been brimming with confidence. After all, this type of stint is what JEFF’s here for. So I hung in through the first two batters….uh, hits and another “L”. He blew his chance AGAIN, and hopefully for the LAST time. Should be on a short list headed out of town, but he won’t be. The problem is who will replace him? CAMPILLO seems to be the most immediate option. That’s scary in itself. No, like the economy, it appears there is not easy or quick fix to resurrect the BRAVES fortunes all in one season. Thank goodness we’ve made a good start however.
Lew
May 31st, 2009
10:01 am
Dogs-Yeah, you’re right-U2 was really good back then. Under A Blood Red Sky-great album. Since Bono found he was related to God? Not so much.
coach smith
May 31st, 2009
10:11 am
The Braves should be kicking themselves for not giving ANDRUW JONES the minimum to come back and play oufield here
You think the lineup couldn’t use this
**In only 23 games and 76 ABs ANDRUW’s numbers are**
**AVG: .303**
**OBP: .491**
**OPS: 1.049**
**17 RBI, 6 HRs, and 19 Walks against only 14 strikeouts**
In less than half the games he has more Homers than our whole freakin outfield and nearly as many RBIs
Send JOJO, and maybe another never will be to the Rangers and bring Andruw back home (he is their 4th outfielder)
A right handed power bat for the lineup on the cheap is exactly what we need
DO IT NOW
Braves73
May 31st, 2009
10:12 am
Lew – Bobby thanks you for your support. Maybe you can help him fillout the roster today and the rest of the year…see you in last place!
61 year Braves Fan
May 31st, 2009
10:12 am
Pendeleton should be fired. He is the worst hitting coach in baseball. If he becomes the next Braves
manager, I will quit my 61 year allegiance with this team.Rafael Belliard would be a better hitting
coach.
Greg
May 31st, 2009
10:13 am
Every other team in the majors fires coaches for poor performance. Yet we hang onto TP like he was gold. Ever since he’s been batting coach, this team has had all the offense of a T-Ball squad facing Nolan Ryan. TP has to go. And Cox needs to realize that the steroid era is over. You can’t wait for the three-run homer anymore. You have to use speed and brains to win games, and we have a shortage of both.
richbrave
May 31st, 2009
10:17 am
DOWN ON THE FARM:
CHARLIE MORTON had his fifth straight solid start in GWINNETT the other day and lowered his ERA to an impressive 2.51 with an even more impressive 1.05 WHIP. His record climbs to 7-2 on 64.2 IP, 52 H, 18 ER, 2 HR, 2 HB, 16 BB, and 55 SO. Looks like the time is fast approaching for his opportunity to have another go at ML pitching. You bloggers listen up… if this guy gets his legs under him on the ML level, he will be almost as good as HANSON. He’s my man. I’ve seen him numerous times. BARRING INJURY, he’s got the goods to succeed with the BRAVES. Attitude is everything with him. He’ll eventually realize he can pitch to ML hitters successfully. When he does, you’ll be pleased with the results.
Lew
May 31st, 2009
10:22 am
Braves73-And maybe they’ll hire you to clean the restrooms. You’re qualified, I’m sure.
dogsbrekky
May 31st, 2009
10:26 am
Greg – re TP, is he really the problem or do we just have a lot of mediocre bats who never will be big power guys… as my Nanna said “You can’t make good jam with rancid strawberries”
JF has one of the worst/least effective swings on a supposed power OF I have ever seen and we know how much TP, Chipper and the gr8 Rudy J have tried to get him right..
Jordan has a huge hole in his swing that I suspect is caused more by that sore wrist then anything preventable but if he cannot hit by the end of June, bring up the Jones kid again..
KJ goes hot and cold depending on whether we really need to win or not
Garret has been injured and now seems much better
Kotchie is what he is, a good disciplined singles/doubles guy with a great eye
McCann and Chipper are execllent
Yunie is either great or piss poor…
Now if we got someone like Jermaine Dye or Nelson Cruz then we would know what we have…. a real power threat.
dogsbrekky
May 31st, 2009
10:31 am
richbrave – I agree re Morton but where do we put him ?
Lew – did you have agitation pills for brekky, not your usual self this am !
I watched the softball WS last night. The coach of the BAMA team took out his star senior hitter (not much power, but 4 time all USA) with bases loaded, 2 out and down 0-2 in the 5th and brought in a rookie freshman hitter……. kid went yard for a GS….exciting stuff
Braves73
May 31st, 2009
10:34 am
Lew – How did you guess that? Wow, you are way above my pay grade. I guess I will need your advice in order to move ahead with the rest of my future. Any suggestions (outside of my current occupation)? If it’s anything like your comments on the Braves, then I should go ahead and move out of my trailer into an outhouse.
Lew
May 31st, 2009
10:42 am
dogs-No, Haven’t had breakfast. Just don’t think much of U2 in the past decade or so. Edge needs to find a new guitar riff-he’s used the same one for well over 20 years. Really do have a copy of Blood Red Sky though and enjoy it much.
Braves73-Would you prefer I try to use fact and logic to show you why Bobby made the moves he did yesterday? Can you actually deal with it if I do?
Fact-Chipper has a minor injury that could turn major if he plays on it.
Fact-This has happened in the past.
Fact-When Chipper is out of the lineup we tend to lose games.
Fact-If we mitigate Chipper’s aches and pains he’ll play more-hence we’ll win more.
Fact-Catchers need time off due to the rigors of catching.
Fact-Managers (besides Bobby, too) routinely give their starting catcher a day off after a night game.
Fact-Mac played a night game Friday and we had a day game Saturday.
Fact-David Ross, Mac’s replacement, went 2-3 with a walk subbigh for Mac
Fact-You have no clue.
Braves73
May 31st, 2009
10:54 am
Lew – Now we are back to the topic of coversation…bring it! Your/Bobbies theory on giving a catcher the day off after a night game is/are pretty standard. The problem with that standard is that the Braves are hemorrhaging road loses on this trip and currently find themselves in third place (dropping like bricks). If common logic dictates that you further weaken your already lethargic offense by removing your 2nd best hitter, then why do you do it? That mentality is part of the Braves problem this year, they are not good enough for any of their key current starters to be out. If you truly “thought outside of the box” then you wouldn’t have followed your “logic”.
Oh and by the way, your theory worked…the Braves scored two runs and lost the game…you are proving your own theory.
Braves Paisan
May 31st, 2009
10:58 am
Morning, gentlemen and gentle ladies. Looking forward to some great baseball discussion today.
Roman Gal, if you haven’t been selected already, I hope you are up for Phi Beta Kappa!
Pete
May 31st, 2009
10:59 am
Lew: “Braves73-Would you prefer I try to use fact and logic to show you why Bobby made the moves he did yesterday?”
Worked great didnt it lol
Ozzie
May 31st, 2009
11:02 am
FACT
Chipper told Bobby/Media AJ still looked like a pull happy load (during the off season) and the Braves should pass while anointing JF as the next clean up hitter for the Braves.
Methinks Chipper should stick to his day job.
The Braves (and most of us to be fair) discounted a career (AJs) of excellence after two years of scuffling under a crappy hitting coach who AJ clearly did not respect (others have followed suit in a passive aggressive way by seeking outside help) and a manager who left him to rot (far too long) in the 4hole when clearly needed to spend time in the 7-8th spot or even the DL.
Branyan was already a Brave once yes? And with less that stellar results. I doubt they bring him back.
The same maybe true of DeRosa. Been there done that, pass – seems to be their MO. Once in a blue moon do they give a player another shot and usually is backfires.
The latest being Glavine and so far Glavine has been the biggest backfire ever due to injuries.
I would bring AJ back in a heartbeat but TP needs to get fired the week before.
gotigers72
May 31st, 2009
11:02 am
I would like to add another name to the list of untradeable minor leaguers. In addition to Hanson, Heyward and Freeman, I would not like to see Cody Johnson traded. He is a serious power hitter with 17 homers which is 8 more than anyone else in the Carolina League. He can also run and is an above average outfielder. Sure he strikes out a lot, but so do most MLB power hitters. He is a potentrial 40 homer guy if the Braves just nurse him along and continue to work with him on making better contact.
Do you think the Phillies would not want Ryan Howard in their lineup because he strikes out a lot? Or the same thing with the Nationals and Adam Dunn? Keep Cody, he will be one of the better power hitters to come up through the Braves system in quite some time. Not much of a pure hitter like Heyward and Freeman, but can you see Cody hitting 4th between Heyward at #3 and Freeman at #5? Sweet!
Ozzie
May 31st, 2009
11:07 am
If the point of having a ML team is to win games the entire OF needs to be replaced. Caveat: Schafer can only stay if they put two very consistent power bats in RF/LF. If they can only add one Schafer needs to go back to AAA to work on his hitting.
They Braves cannot afford to turn Schafer into a Rafael Belliard – all glove no bat. The offensive mess we call the Braves (today) is a terrible place to break in a rookie like Schafer.
Braves73
May 31st, 2009
11:09 am
Pete – You are a GOD amungst men! We should subscibe to Lew’s blog so we can learn how to mismanage games and strive for last place. I hear that he’s coming out with motivational books and “how to finish last” real soon.
BravesFan InRockies (ex-BFIR)
May 31st, 2009
11:10 am
Lew/Braves 73,
Good morning, folks. Have no problem sitting Heap in a day game after night game because a) Mc was overworked last year and b) Ross doesn’t hurt you much at all when he’s in the lineup (that was one reason for a) — namely, with Corky Miller as your backup catcher you can’t let an All-Star rest very often).
That said, the lineup yesterday looked like something from a B split squad in March. When Diaz is your starting CF and Prado’s hitting cleanup, you don’t have the most formidable roster in the world, if you know what I mean.
And they still almost pulled if off.
Actually, yesterday’s game should be Exhibits A – ZZZ for why the Braves need to upgrade the offense and give the roster more flexibility sooner rather than later.
BravesFan InRockies (ex-BFIR)
May 31st, 2009
11:10 am
I guess I’m my own doppleganger. Time to change the handle on my backup computer.
Lew
May 31st, 2009
11:11 am
Pete-One can only lead the proverbial equine to the drinking source-if the horse doesn’t have enough sense to drink, I’m not too sure what I can do about it.
Braves73-Dude, what part of David Ross having 2 hits and a walk are you not understanding? Catchers need time off-it’s a well established practice on good and bad teams. Catchers just don’t play 162 games a season because of the physical demands. That’s why after last year (remember Corky Miller?), we went out and acquired a competent catcher who is both good defensively AND can hit a bit. That way, there won’t be a significant decrease in offensive (or defensive for that matter) production. The move worked yesterday. Mac’s sitting out the game did not lead to our loss. Why are you so upset that Mac sat? Had he played and had two hits and a walk, we still would have lost the game-we scored in ONE of 11 innings. Judging from how Chipper’s AB went, I’m not so sure he would have added much either.
Piedmont Blues (ex-BFIR)
May 31st, 2009
11:11 am
That’s better.
Piedmont Blues (ex-BFIR)
May 31st, 2009
11:12 am
dogsbrekky (10:26)
Amen.
Lew
May 31st, 2009
11:14 am
Braves73-I’m certain you can pull your head out of your intestinal tract if you try real hard. 1-2-3-PULL.
David O'Brien
May 31st, 2009
11:15 am
Under A Blood Red Sky-great album. Since Bono found he was related to God? Not so much. — Lew
So, Joshua Tree is merely dismissed with the rest of your “not so much,” huh?
Under A Blood Red Sky came out in ‘83. Among the U2 albums released since then that are, to me at least, as good or better than Under A Blood Red Sky:
The Joshua Tree (Lew, it’s one of the best albums of the past 25 years)
The Unforgettable Fire
Achtung Baby
All That You Can’t Leave Behind
I also think How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb is probably as good or better than Under A Blood Red Sky, and so is the latest one, No Line On The Horizon.
But albums like Joshua Tree, Achtung Baby and The Unforgettable Fire are so much better than Under a Blood Red Sky, to me it’s not even close.
Piedmont Blues (ex-BFIR)
May 31st, 2009
11:15 am
dogsbrekky (10:26)
Amen. Wren has as much as admitted he made fixing the rotation the priority and hoped that the club that broke camp in early April would hit slightly above expectations. The rotation has been mighty fine. The offense hasn’t. Fortunately we have pieces in the minors and possibly on the big club that could be pieced together in deals to get a better bat or two.
Braves Paisan
May 31st, 2009
11:15 am
There isn’t a short term solution. We are a mediocre team, with no discernable offensive from the entire outfield. And I believe it would be foolish to trade pitching prospects to rent a big power hitter for a season and a half.
Better to look long term — we have some horses on the farm. In two years, we should win the division with Freeman and Haywood, Jurrjens and Hanson, McCann and Escobar … and yes, “Logan” in CF.
Long term, folks — which means young players should be cultivated. I believe we have hurt Jo-Jo and Morton by rushing them. Thank God they are letting Hansen blossom at AAA. When he comes up, he will be ready, confident, and seasoned.
Lew
May 31st, 2009
11:17 am
DOB-If you had read later posts, you would have noticed I said in the past decade or so. And yes, I DID forgert the Joshua Tree.
So I like their early stuff and their later efforts not as much-sue me. I like Whitesnake and Hair Metal, too. Some of have different tastes. Imagine that.
Piedmont Blues (ex-BFIR)
May 31st, 2009
11:18 am
Let me shove my stick in the cage here by noting that David Price, who was hardly setting the world on fire at Durham, had an outstanding start yesterday in his return to the Rays.
Look, I hope Glavine feels great and return to the rotation in fine form. But if he can’t, there’s no reason to keep Hanson down much longer.
Braves73
May 31st, 2009
11:18 am
Lew – Dude, I am just as passionate about the Braves as you are. I just don’t agree with Bobbies removal of Mac when you are struggling to produce offense. I understand the logic, it’s just too much of a deficiency when Chipper is out. Ross is certainly a huge upgrade from Corky, but he does not have the overall impact to the rest of the lineup that Mac does. Unfortunately, we need Mac in the lineup everyday that Chipper is not (which could be a lot). If that means that you sacrifice a little bumps and bruises (right now while Chipper is out) then do it. I am not about watching the Braves blow games and settle for .500, I WANT THEM TO WIN! I want Bobby to put his best lineup everyday and make this team into a contender. If not, then why would I waste my time blogging about them.
Jay212033
May 31st, 2009
11:19 am
gotigers72
You did not just describe Cody Johnson’s defense as above average did you?!?! He has improve dramatically this year but is still a below average- average defender if he could cut the Ks and up the BBs he’ll be a great prospect.
RHR
May 31st, 2009
11:19 am
DOB, if a game you were covering went 25 innings and ended at 2 a.m. would you:
A) Lose it and walk off the job in the 21st muttering “I dont even LIKE baseball!”
B) Take a nap and copy Bowman’s notes when it was over
C) Start drinking heavily and hang in there
Lew
May 31st, 2009
11:21 am
Braves73-I want them to win, too, but a lot of the postsd condmning this move or that move on the blog border on the absurd a lot of the time. Fact is catchers need time off. Sometimesthat day falls on a game you’d rather have your number one guy in the game, but you have to sit him. LIke I said-last year Mac’s m,issing games hurt much worse than now with Ross on the team. Yesterday was an example of our upgrade. Rosshad a couple hits and was on base three times. Not too sure why you think a more tired Mac would have improved on that. I don’t want Ross as an everyday catcher, but he sure has done a good job so far-AND his defensive is pretty damned good, too.
ppaddy123
May 31st, 2009
11:26 am
I don’t agree with taking Mac out of the lineup, either. He doesn’t have to catch everyday, but if Adam Dunn can play RF for the Nationals, and Diaz can spell Schafer in center, Mac could surely play RF. Sit Francoeur and put Mac in right. One less hole in the lineup.
Braves Paisan
May 31st, 2009
11:30 am
There is the problem of psyche. These are sensitive athletes competing every day with the best in the world at their profession. Putting Mac in right field to fail at times in front of thousands of fans might lose more than it gains.
bravesgirlnc
May 31st, 2009
11:33 am
The Cubs just brought up Jake Fox. He is tearing up AAA but is a man without a true position. Do we have anyone like that in AAA?
Lew
May 31st, 2009
11:33 am
ppaddy-I have serious issues with playing players out of position ever since we saw what happened to Chipper’s legs playing in left instead of at third. I absolutely cringed in horror when I heard Mac had been playing outfield during the WBC. Not to mention Mac has less than stellar speed which would NOT help him in the outfield.
Braves73
May 31st, 2009
11:34 am
Lew – I will repeat myself, Ross is a HUGE upgrade from Corky (here comes the but) but, he is not Mac. Mac is probably the best hitting catcher in the majors. The Braves suffer tremendously without him, and he is one of a handleful of players that have that type of impact. The Braves don’t have the luxury of falling behind any further than their current standing- 4 games & 5 in the loss column).
ppaddy123
May 31st, 2009
11:35 am
That’s funny, Braves Paisan. One of the greatest catchers in history, Johnny Bench, played left field on the days Sparky gave him a break from behind the plate. Funny how it didn’t “scar” him.
TBrown
May 31st, 2009
11:39 am
Braves 73-
I love Mac and all, but I’d give best hitting catcher to Joe Mauer.
I agree that Mac does need off days, and I understand day game after a night game, but he did get Wednesday (I believe) off.
ppaddy123
May 31st, 2009
11:40 am
Lew, no offense, but you have a lot of issues……bless your heart.
RHR
May 31st, 2009
11:42 am
Can we get Dirty Harry up on the clubhouse screen today please? And Kris Medlen, front and center.
Lew
May 31st, 2009
11:42 am
Braves73-Dude, we can keep going around and around like a couple of carousel horses for the rest of the day, but the facts won’t change at all. Mac has to have time off. DGAANG is the usual time for this time off (for well established reasons). We went out and got a good substitute catcher so there wouldn’t be a huge drop off when Mac sits out. Yesterday was a perfect example. The desired occurrence occurred (2-3 and three times on base) and the sub put up starter’s numbers. I still fail to see why you are so upset. You might have had an argument if Ross had gone ofer. He didn’t. Let’s just move on. Not only did the horse not drink-he died. Let’s cease and desist with the excessive post mortem equine flagellation (how’s THAT Moose Knuckle?).
dogsbrekky
May 31st, 2009
11:42 am
Lew and Dobi One Knobi – re U2………
I am one of those 40 somethings who loved the early U2 stuff but became jacked off probably post Zooropa, so I cannot comment on their latest stuff as I own none of it, but “The Unforgettable Fire” to me, is pure genius as is the “Joshua Tree”…….. I seem to recall the former was produced by the great Beatles producer and the later I dunno…
ACHTUNG BABY
I alos gave up on AcDc after Bon died, but being from the same suburb/town (Adelaide)… we are kind of biased on the matter…
We found my missus’ huge record collection and got the old turntable cranked this weekend…….. I just love the rich tones of some of those early 70s albums on vinyl as opposed to digital music !
Jeff R
May 31st, 2009
11:43 am
Holliday… Braves need a power bat, but that’s not all. As DOB said, Beane isn’t moving Holliday early. He’s going to test the market toward trade deadline, see how much value he can squeeze from a contender.
The way the Braves are playing right now, they won’t be contending; just scudding along at .500 or worse.
Braves have real problems with the 4/5 slots in the rotation. Kawakami may come around, but except for the Toronto outing, not impressed. Medlen is just cutting his teeth, and Glavine is one big question mark.
dogsbrekky
May 31st, 2009
11:43 am
Achtung Baby – I murdered that thing by playing it so much that I am now even sick of “ONE”..
Braves Paisan
May 31st, 2009
11:43 am
ppaddy123 — At the end of his career, right? When his Hall credentials were already a given? Bench, Berra, Fisk, a couple more, the greatest catchers in the history of the game. Is Mac there yet? Is it worth the DOWNSIDE if it fails? I think not. SI had an article about how playing the toughest positions on the field: catcher, SS, and CF — produces extreme wear and tear on a player. I haven’t seen a data-based arguement, but I think giving catchers days off is the best strategy to preserve their longevity.
Lew
May 31st, 2009
11:43 am
ppady-I’d imagine we are all laden with issues of one type or another.
BT
May 31st, 2009
11:43 am
David Ross was an excellent acquisition. He is a leader that doesn’t take any crap and seems to be losing patience with some of the disgusting at bats from a few of our “hitters.” Maybe some of this leadership will motivate our guys.
DOB some of those “bloggers” have deserved a ban for their racial comments for awhile now.
Bobby Holiday
May 31st, 2009
11:44 am
“This team played hard, really hard, they didnt deserve to lose last night. This a group of fight warriors, but sometimes, like Aquiles, the greatest warriors get to lose at the end of the day. I have lots of faith in KJ, JF and Schafer. I can guarantee you that KJ will end up with 25 HR, JF with 110 RBI and Schafer will become the NLROY. They have played their hearts out, its just a matter of time for their luck to change and for them to take charge and destroy our opponents with their bats (but not like Zambrano, you know, you know, you know).
dogsbrekky
May 31st, 2009
11:45 am
Glavine – is a star and winner until he proves to me otherwise…….. forget ‘08, he was injured……. so let him weave his magic and if the old pony hasn’t got his old tricks down pat then I would be the 1st to euthanase him