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2,500 comments Add your comment
Roman Gal
June 3rd, 2009
11:12 pm
keylargo-
It’s not that I think Schafer is the best defensive center fielder ever in the history of the world, because I don’t. But you completely dismissed him defensively and said that McLouth was so much better than Schafer that it wasn’t even close. That’s what I was “laughing” at. Besides, in case you hadn’t noticed, I really, really like Jordan Schafer…in an irrational way.
Mark in PA
June 3rd, 2009
11:14 pm
Well, that certainly clears up who wears the pants WRT personnel moves. Even before the DOB post on Bobby’s reaction, I had kind of figured it out. No way BC sends Glavine packing without at least bringing him back and letting him get hammered a few times.
Steve from OH
June 3rd, 2009
11:14 pm
This (loss notwithstanding) has been a good day for the Braves. They’ve added a big piece to their outfield, and a piece that will be there for some time. While I’m not as bullish on McLouth’s bat or glove as many of you are, he is above average across the board offensively right now, but none of his tools jump out to me as “plus plus.” A very solid player, though. Some of the more “saber” stats suggest he is (and might be) a bit better than that fwiw. I don’t feel like we gave up too much for him, either, in the grand scheme of things. We have also added a big piece to our rotation in Tommy Hanson, who, as a rookie, will probably take his lumps, but he’ll have some dominant moments along the way, too. Don’t overlook Medlen going to the bullpen, I think this will have a big impact, too. Our bullpen is sort of top-heavy, so it’ll be good to add some depth in there.
Like Coach, I don’t feel like we’re done wheeling and dealing either. I think that if Schafer has a nice two months in AAA, he’ll come up in place of Francoeur, who is probably on prospect auction at this point. He is still a big hole in our offense. Need to get Infante back too so we don’t have to keep running Diory out there as our super-sub.
The way I see it, in “net” form Wren has added Lowe, Vazquez, KK, Jurrjens, O’Flahery, and McLouth to the club while giving up Cash, Edgar Renteria, and the Tyler Flowers group (sounds like a 60’s band). Not a bad swap, imo. He’s kept our real blue-chippers in the system (Hanson, Medlen, Heyward, Freeman, Schafer) and kept some very good pitching depth below that (Rohrbough, Cordier, and the Rome staff, Kimbrel, Gearrin, and some marginal guys at AA). I’d like to see more depth in position players; it’s something we’ll need to address in the future.
Hopefully Schafer can rebound in AAA and allow us to trade Frenchy for some organizational depth. In the long-term, I see McLouth moving to a corner spot and Schafer taking over in center. Heyward mans the other corner, and McLouth’s 4-year contract gives Cody Johnson plenty of time to learn how to hit. Hanson, Lowe and Jurrjens anchoring our staff for the next 4 years looks awesome too, with Medlen available if we need another starter. This gives plenty of time for us to develop and evaluate the younger guys in A ball.
I did, however, really hate to see the Braves part with Glavine that way. It had to be done, imo, but I wish it could’ve gone down differently. Best of luck Glav, I wish you the best.
Tomahawkin
June 3rd, 2009
11:14 pm
JoeBrave
Hawpe Might work at well…But I think Turner Field will hurt him…
Plus this team needs to get away from the 3-Run Homer Philosopy and get hitters who are adept at situational hitting…
Face it People Baseball stats are going to resemble those of the 80’s, “Bank On It!”…The Only exception is that the Stolen base leaders will still be in the 50 range instead of 75-80 like they were in the 80’s
Coach (Moon Pie , Anyone?)
June 3rd, 2009
11:15 pm
Brian Barton’s a great fourth outfielder, but not an everyday player. He can back up all three spots in the outfield, pinch run, pinch hit, make the occasional start, come in as a late inning defensive replacement and adds some much needed base running speed to the team. As does Nate McLouth, who can run too.
Frank Wren has done three things today. He added pitching (Tommy Hanson), offense, speed and defense ( Nate McLouth), more speed and defense(Brian Barton) and like I said a few minutes ago, I don’t think that Wren is done wheeling and dealing.
bravesfanforever
June 3rd, 2009
11:16 pm
I’m not sure what the thinking is here. McLouth had *76* extra base hits last year at slugged .497. He only had a .356 OBP. Would he be more effective batting lead off or batting lower in the order?
Yes, he had 23 stolen bases and was only caught 3 times. But really, is 23 stolen bases a big number for a lead off guy or is a decent OBP? We could put Barton at lead off or have Escobar leading off and bat Kotchman or McLouth second.
(We need to either bench Francoeur or release him–hey, Wren already dumped Glavine so why not dump Frenchy?)
escobars bat
June 3rd, 2009
11:16 pm
We’ll always have the memories of the good ole days with glavine and not a bitter taste in our mouth like we would have after he got slapped around had we brought him up.Hey ya’ll remember when he got Ruth to look at strike three in ‘31 !
nolie
June 3rd, 2009
11:17 pm
(I believe that DOB scolded MANY for suggesting we go after him last winter – apparently he wasn’t as “untouchable” as once thought – though we gave up a bunch for him – almost more “sure thing” prospects than we gave up for Tex – difference is that McClouth is EXACTLY what this team needed). (N8)
anger issues with Dave, Nate? You never seem to mpass up a chance to mock him. Not that’s there’s anything wrong with that
Pete
June 3rd, 2009
11:17 pm
N8: “The way Glavine was handled, and the obvious disappointment by Bobby may be the beginning of a souring relationship between the two. You would think Bobby would understand, since he was once GM. But Tommy is like one of his sons.”
Was surprised Cox was “extremely disappointed” in front office decision to let TG go. I dont recall another time when Cox has publicly voiced displeasure with a GM decision (or maybe I misunderstood DOB’s comment). But youre right about saying TG is like a son to Bobby.
Turk 182
June 3rd, 2009
11:18 pm
Massive haul by Wren. All-Star CF for 3 prospects not named Heyward, Hanson, Freeman or Scahfer.
The Renteria deal is the trade that keeps on giving! So for Renteria we have ended up with our #2 SP in Jurrjens and our new All-Star CF in McLouth.
Seems Wren has better chops pulling trades than FA’s.
Nice job.
Rabid Rascal
June 3rd, 2009
11:18 pm
Being a fan of a team is going to leave you with ups and downs. I enjoyed Glavine and what he did for the Braves but this was best for the team. How can you not be excited for some “young blood” to get this team going. Everything today will better the team. The trade was not made for this year only. This will make us competitive for many years to come. I, for one, am excited to be a Braves fan.
monty
June 3rd, 2009
11:18 pm
At least we don’t have to listen to BC after Glavine got knocked around saying, “I thought Tommy was lights out tonight.”
DirtyYuni
June 3rd, 2009
11:19 pm
The bad thing about McLouth? He’s got terrible gas.
http://cache.daylife.com/imageserve/0f8Aa9k9lYgRt/610x.jpg
Doc Holiday
June 3rd, 2009
11:19 pm
When will the phillies start losing? Their hitting is way too loaded for it to slump………..too many weapons to slump all at the same time. Pitching is bad, but they have managed to keep winning………..same as the yankees……….yankees are 13 in ERA in the AL, yet they are 1st in the best division in the AL. As a matter of fact yankees and phillies are 26th and 27th in ERA in the majors (respectively), yet they lead arguably the best divisions on each league. How are they doing it?, well, they are 1st and the in runs scored in the majors (respectively)
Traver
June 3rd, 2009
11:20 pm
Translation on Cox’s comments – Wren screwed up again. Chop Chop – watch this escalate – Cox rarely disagrees with the organization publically regardless of how subtle it is. They will start working on his exit strategy – Oh wait! – they don’t use exit strategies in the Braves’ organization. They just fire Hall of Famers because they can. I have been a Braves fans since I was 5 years old. I consider myself to be someone who sticks with the team regardless of win of lose or whether I agree with a decision or not but I am close to call it quits with them. I realize the day would come when Glavine and Smoltz would be gone but the Braves handled both situations about as poorly as you can handle a situation like theirs. Both should have ended their careers on high notes with Atlanta. Could have mentored the next wave (Hanson, Medlen, etc.) That is what greatness can do for you at the end – provide leadership and knowledge. Now they have been exiled. Wouldn’t shock me (especially with Glavine) if they went into the hall with a different hat on other than the Braves. What a travesty that would be.
I believe Glaivne can still pitch and I think we will see that Smoltz can too. Somebody please explain to me why they didn’t at least deserve enough respect for what they have done for that organization to at least get a shot to pitch here again?
Tomahawkin
June 3rd, 2009
11:20 pm
Does Anyone Have Glavine’s Book “None But The Braves Tom Glavine”…?
Its a Good One it chronicles his days from the minors to 95. I wish he would make another that would date from 96 til retirement…
Atlanta Cowards
June 3rd, 2009
11:21 pm
I really thought this game was a must win. Keep the momentum going and get a shot in the arm tomorrow while everyone is flying high. Now Nate comes in with a butt-ton of pressure on his shoulders. Seriously, why can this team hit and why is this bullpen so predictablly terrible??????! I’m mean how do you get a win like last night and come out flat and crap the bed the next day? How hard is it to get up for a big game? WTF
bravesfanforever
June 3rd, 2009
11:21 pm
Right now Coach, Frenchy should be a fourth outfielder or released. Hard to believe someone like Barton can possibly outhit a great prospect like Schafer and an established RF with a great arm in Mr. Golden Boy Francoeur.
Steve from OH
June 3rd, 2009
11:21 pm
I don’t see the Braves adding any more big contracts without moving one, which I don’t see happening. I think Frenchy’s on the hot seat, so I figure he’ll probably get dealt for prospects if Wren is confident that Schafer has found his swing in AAA (big IF).
Roman Gal
June 3rd, 2009
11:21 pm
I did, however, really hate to see the Braves part with Glavine that way. It had to be done, imo, but I wish it could’ve gone down differently. Steve from OH
I agree. I’m not upset that he’s gone, it just seems like a pretty insensitive thing to do to one of our icons. It’s almost like they really hoped he bombed in the minors. I doubt that’s true, though. I just wish this didn’t look so bad.
I will say this for Wren, he’s really good at saving face. As soon as Smoltz signed with Boston, he signed KK and Lowe. Now as soon as this happens he brings up Hanson and trades for McLouth.
Shamus Thacker
June 3rd, 2009
11:22 pm
I’d trade Bennett and Frenchy for a consession-stand soda jerk and a sacka bats.
Roman Gal
June 3rd, 2009
11:23 pm
nolie
You make my day.
bravesfanforever
June 3rd, 2009
11:24 pm
By the way, I want to make it clear that my comments about McLouth on several blogs including this one is what lead to the deal with Pittsburgh. You should all be thanking me.
You’re welcome.
Coach (Moon Pie , Anyone?)
June 3rd, 2009
11:24 pm
Ken Rosenthal’s take on today’s roster moves:
http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/9643586/Braves%27-trade-should-soften-loss-of-Glavine
Doc Holiday
June 3rd, 2009
11:25 pm
Turk 182,
Right on.
Atlanta Cowards
June 3rd, 2009
11:25 pm
Like Wren said, to put up the numbers that Glavine did at low-A means nothing. They watched him for 4 weeks and determined he woudl not be successful at this level.
Bobby is unhappy, who gives a poop? I’m pretty unhappy with the way he’s managed this team. He refuses to evolve and thus he will become extinct.
David O'Brien
June 3rd, 2009
11:27 pm
Guess when Braves players found out about the McLouth trade? When they saw it announced on the video board in the second inning….
By the way, has Jordan Schafer had a bad couple of days, or what? Yikes….
The players were told about the Glavine move after batting practice. They bit their tongues commenting about it postgame, Mac only saying how Glavine is “the best” and a great friend and how everyone’s going to miss him so much in the clubhouse, but how it’s something between Glavine and the Braves and he wasn’t going to comment.
Chipper said he was “shocked” and that none of them saw it coming, that all were under the impression Glavine would be back with the Braves when he was ready to pitch.
Steve from OH
June 3rd, 2009
11:29 pm
Guess when Braves players found out about the McLouth trade? When they saw it announced on the video board in the second inning
That’s kind of a you-know-what move…sort of like posting on the big board “Gregor Blanco=dead man walking.”
Thanks Chop Chop.
June 3rd, 2009
11:32 pm
Bobby only has one year contract. Just don’t renew it. Let Wren pick his on Mgr. I believe when Jeff was sent to AA it made Bobby mad and Wren recalled him because of Bobbys crying. That may have started the drift if any…Smoltz and now Glavine. Bobby needs to retire, its time to move on. My $.o2 worth. But I agree with CHOP CHOP and N8 it could spell BC ending.
Doc Holiday
June 3rd, 2009
11:32 pm
Steve from OH ,
So you are saying that if Schafer find his swing again and is called up and JF is dealt, Schafer will play RF?
elliwg6
June 3rd, 2009
11:33 pm
if schafer rights himself does he push frenchy out of the outfield mix and move mclouth to right?
Tommy
June 3rd, 2009
11:34 pm
One of the worst moves the Braves ever made was to bring Tom Glavine back from the Mets. You don’t win with your Heart you win with your checkbook and your brain. I am glad to see that 75 mph fast ball go on down the road. Maybe we can get a pitcher now.
Andy K.
June 3rd, 2009
11:34 pm
DOB, Rosenthal says we could see a future OF of Schafer in Center, McLouth in Left, and Heyward in Right. Would you concur? I hope so, because I still love the talent Schafer possesses and think he could be a major contributor.
Turk 182
June 3rd, 2009
11:35 pm
Goodness, Schafer ain’t pushing no one nowhere any time soon. He will be in Gwinnett for some time I would imagine. He’s got a lot of work to do.
Tomahawkin
June 3rd, 2009
11:35 pm
I want To see Francoeur, Freeman, Jo-Jo Reyes sent to Texas for Nellie Cruz…
LOL, Just Kidding folks, Like that will happen…
David O'Brien
June 3rd, 2009
11:36 pm
Cox on the Glavine situation (and he looked about as saddened as I’ve EVER seen him as he answered questions about this in his postgame press conference):
“That was rough tonight. One of the hardest things I’ve ever had to go through. As an organization, we made a decision, and that was it.
“I think he still wants to pitch, and his arm is pretty darn strong…. It’s pretty tough to talk about it.”
(I really think that’s as close to tears as I’ve seen Bobby Cox)
Yunel's Frosted Tip's
June 3rd, 2009
11:36 pm
Now if Wren will uncerimoniously dump Bobby Cox like we the trifecta will be complete
bravesfanforever
June 3rd, 2009
11:36 pm
Given what happened with John Smoltz, it may have been worth it to spend $1 million on Tommy Glavine and let him pitch once for the Braves, then announce his retirement. Think the Braves would have packed the stadium for that game?
It would have been a great PR move that may have paid dividends this year and years to come.
Steve from OH
June 3rd, 2009
11:36 pm
Doc, I think the course that would best utilize our assets (this season) would be to put Schafer in center if he performs well enough to merit a call-up, and put McLouth in right. Long-term, it would be McLouth in left and Heyward in right, if the scouting reports on Heyward are to be trusted.
Wayne in Utah
June 3rd, 2009
11:37 pm
All I can say is Sham Wow!!
Just checked back in after a long day of work, saw that we lost the game, then saw all the other moves.
While I was hopeful that Glavine would come back and be successful, I am OK with his release, and Hanson’s eventual promotion. I think our staff will be MUCH improved over a Glavine/Medlen combo.
Then, the McLouth news! While I am not as high on NM as some, I do think he is a huge improvement over Blanco and Schafer (for now) in CF.
Is there one more move to be made???? That is the burning question. If not, we are still MUCH improved, without mortgaging the future.
WTG Braves and Frank Wren!!!
Turk 182
June 3rd, 2009
11:40 pm
I really wish Glavine would just retire and Wren and Co. do some kind of press conference to announce it and send him off with a confetti parade. Bobby is loyal to a fault at times and its hard to blame him after going to the post with these guys for all those years. He really likes Glav. But Wren did just hand him a better team, no doubt about it. Time to win.
Tomahawkin
June 3rd, 2009
11:40 pm
Luke Scott is hitting .500 with 2 out And R.I.S.P.
Anyone see him as another cheap Alternative?
Steve from OH
June 3rd, 2009
11:41 pm
Even if this move doesn’t pan out with a playoff berth this season, we’re set up well for the upcoming years with a solid outfield and a great staff.
Dumbfound
June 3rd, 2009
11:41 pm
Bobby Cox ! It’s the begining of the End !!!!!!!!!!!!
David O'Brien
June 3rd, 2009
11:42 pm
A little more Cox on Glavine and the meeting, which consisted of Wren, Schuerholz and Cox talking to Glavine. Wren said they asked him if he wanted to retire instead of being released, and Glavine said release me. Anyway, it had to be some excruciating moments in there.
“It was tough. Very tough…. He was a team guy. Tommy was a team guy all the way. He always pitched with pain….”
He went on to talk about how Glavine would always offer to pitch on short rest, to pitch despite soreness, etc., and Cox told the story about Maddux at the winter meetings in Vegas, when Maddux said at his retirement press conference that he learned from Glavine the difference between pitching with an injury and pitching with soreness, and how you had to do the latter.
I asked Bobby if, as manager, sometimes these decisions are out of your hands. “We all have a part in everything,” he said, and left it at that.
But earlier, he made it pretty clear that he wasn’t part of the evaluation of Glavine’s minor league starts, which is where Wren said the ultimate decision was made, after they watched him pitch these last couple of starts in the minors and said they saw no improvement over a month ago.
Chop Chop
June 3rd, 2009
11:44 pm
Okay, Steve. I’m just gonna sit back and watch the wins flow.
nolie
June 3rd, 2009
11:44 pm
If Wren had the stones to gun down Smoltz and Glavine, who in here thinks he won’t do the same to Bobby? (CHOP)
me. I think they are already working on an extension for next year.
Cyndi Lauper's Aura
June 3rd, 2009
11:45 pm
I hate it that Bobby’s heartbroken. I really do. Rough stuff.
Chop Chop
June 3rd, 2009
11:46 pm
I hope so, nolie. We couldn’t play a game without Bobby.
nolie
June 3rd, 2009
11:46 pm
I like the McLouth deal, but truth be told, we’re still a bat away (PWH)
you might be right
Steve from OH
June 3rd, 2009
11:47 pm
Chop Chop, that will only happen if you say something positive for one, preferentially after clicking your heels together twice…
Lighten up, dude. You can add better stuff to the convo than that…you’ve got blue-chip prospect stuff!
Cyndi Lauper's Aura
June 3rd, 2009
11:48 pm
Steve, Chop Chop is the resident gadfly. I guess.
Frank F'in Wren
June 3rd, 2009
11:48 pm
Thank you all for the accolades. I’m even greater than you say. I really appreciate how no one noticed how I lost tonight’s game being short a reliever.
THB
June 3rd, 2009
11:48 pm
I don’t think we really overpaid for McLouth, but we did give up a good amount of talent. I think we sold low on Locke a little bit, but he still had good value. I think now we need Rohrbough to step up and produce closer to his ceiling. He’s basically our only high-level pitching prospect after this season, with Medlen and Hanson graduating to the majors and Rohrbough being around AA by the end of the season. The good news is that we have some deep talent in Rome, at least in our pitching staff. Zeke Spruill has a ridiculous sinker, getting over twice the groundballs to flyouts, Hoover is very intriguing, Devall has great talent, and Francis still has good stuff. All four are producing and showing promise. Now we just need Heyward, Freeman, Rohrbough, and C.Johnson to keep getting better to continue our mastery of the farm system.
David O'Brien
June 3rd, 2009
11:49 pm
Wayne in Utah: Wren said that while they would always keep looking to improve, this was the big move they were looking to make. This is it. He made it pretty clear he’s not expecting another big move, though they’ll keep listening and looking around to do smaller stuff, if it helps the team win.
monty
June 3rd, 2009
11:49 pm
We got a guy whose best years should be in front of him, take his last three years numbers and he averages 24 HR’s per year and 100 RBI’s per year. Where we hoped Jeff would be. He steals 20+ bases per year at a high success rate, about 80%. He plays a great center field. Not exactly AJ in his prime but pretty good. Definitely a big improvement over recent years. plus he hits leadoff! This trade just made KJ better also, by moving him back down to 7th. The biggest drawback is he has never hit for a high average and is a career .261 hitter.
Cyndi Lauper's Aura
June 3rd, 2009
11:49 pm
Frank F’in Wren, how dare you be short a reliever… in an extra inning game … when the new reliever you just today assigned to the pen hasn’t had the chance to get there yet. I guess you suck.
Steve from OH
June 3rd, 2009
11:49 pm
Nah, man (or lady), I’m familiar with CC’s style, he’s a funny cat. He’s been a bit too serious with his negativity these days for my tastes, though. He’s a clever one, hard to tell if he’s being facetious or not…
RC
June 3rd, 2009
11:50 pm
Not to mention the fact that any advanced defensive metric you can find has Schafer as a MUCH better defender than McLouth….Gold Glove be damned, he is a slightly below average DEFENSIVE center fielder, but way, way above average OFFENSIVELY.
Cyndi Lauper's Aura
June 3rd, 2009
11:51 pm
Oh, no, I get it… gadflies are often witty, you know. Socrates and all that…
David O'Brien
June 3rd, 2009
11:51 pm
Wren’s quote on that matter I just referred to: “We’ll continue to look, but we’re going to watch this team [as it's currently constructed] for a while. This was the big move we wanted to make.”
Rock On....(the denizen formerly known as Dadgum)
June 3rd, 2009
11:51 pm
DOB…exactly how could Chipper be “shocked, didn’t see it coming” about the Glavine news? Man, I don’t know. I thought Chipper read this blog fairly regularly. I have been commenting relentlessly about it (joking). My guess he is the only one shocked. It was clear from some reports yesterday that the scouts saw absolutely nothing that gave them a feel good about Glavine going forward. Frankly the Braves gave Glavine every chance and now the homers are saying we shouldn’t have done that to an Icon. Hey we gave him a million to come to Dark Star which was a million more than I and a whole damn lot of other people would have given him.
Kudos to Frank Wren on a great day going forward for Atlanta. Things seem to be falling into place. Oh, if Bobby is so upset then he can just get over it. The last thing we want to hear is how upset he is. With all these changes Bobby is next out the door after this year. Probably from retirement seems to be the perfect time now that all his “sons” are gone.
Plenty of teams can use a 5th starter but Atlanta was one of teh majors worst fits for him. We are stockpiled with many pitchers better than Glavine. In fact just traded one of them away. It is now the Tommy Hanson era and the Braves are better off for it.
Just wondering—was there a press box fire?
Doc Holiday
June 3rd, 2009
11:51 pm
Maybe tonight bobby just felt just the way well all feel when he makes all his “SMART” decision before games and while games are being played.
N Nine
June 3rd, 2009
11:52 pm
We sure threw a curve ball at Glavine. I can see why Cox feels strongly about this move. We broke his heart and gave him tough realization his career should end now. Hey he can go in the HOF with Maddux.
I’m blown away by WREN today. Solid bold moves that make sense. No doubt we improved today.
I agree we won’t be trading away any more youngsters this season, unless Wren’s blown away…
Elements
June 3rd, 2009
11:52 pm
That Cox story is so sad.
Maybe Wren gets the knife in his back now that he has finished the tough job of getting rid of Smoltz and Glavine.
Frank F'in Wren
June 3rd, 2009
11:52 pm
Frank justs wanna have fun………………………….. justs wanna
KC
June 3rd, 2009
11:52 pm
For those of you criticizing Wren for the handling of the Glavine situation…
He gave a simple answer that makes perfect sense. As Glavine rehabbed, the Braves had scouts and coaches watching Glavine. These are the people that give Wren the information upon which he bases his decision. After watching both Glavine and Hanson, pretty much every one of them said the team would be better with Hanson than with Glavine.
He trusted his people, and made the decision he had to make in the best interest of the team.
It’s as simple as that.
Noah
June 3rd, 2009
11:52 pm
Yes, he had 23 stolen bases and was only caught 3 times. But really, is 23 stolen bases a big number for a lead off guy or is a decent OBP
In baseball today not every team has a guy who steals 23 bases, the braves certainly didnt, I’ll take it out of my leadoff stop or wherever he goes. That said I’d love to see even more speed.
Capt Caveman
June 3rd, 2009
11:52 pm
Yo NOLIE –
why is it so hard for some of these guys to see that the Braves did Glavine the favor by financing his rehab and giving him the opportunity to contribute here or offer his services to another team. It boggles me that some people say that the Braves are always fumbling the way they part ways with their long time players.
I seriously think that some of these people think there should be a parade or an on-field celebration and a “glory” speech for these guys. It doesn’t work that way if the player doesn’t want to retire. I wanted to see Glavine back as much as anyone but if it wasn’t the best option then the Braves made the right move. It sux but so does life. Its tough out there so wear a helmet.
N8
June 3rd, 2009
11:54 pm
nolie, that comment wasn’t meant as a jab at DOB. I’m not one of the people that wanted us to go after McLouth this past off-season.
I don’t remember what (or if) I commented on those saying we should trade for McLouth, but I’m certain I was in agreement with DOB that he was more than likely untouchable. Same kind of contract that McCann signed, basically. Good young player and the Pirates bought out his arbitration years for security.
I’m guessing nobody really knew that McLouth was available. I did read somewhere that the Pirates “coveted” Gorkys when he was a Tiger, so if they had a viagra enhanced male body part over Gorkys, that makes sense as to why they would make the move.
Just seems to me, that the Pirates need more Nate McLouth’s on their roster, not less of them.
bravesfanforever
June 3rd, 2009
11:54 pm
I think this trade for McLouth means that we all need to keep an open mind…
Doc Holiday
June 3rd, 2009
11:54 pm
At least thats a sign that they really want to win. We are getting close to become the team to beat. Problem is the phillies are starting to get away, that could be dangerous.
kool$kat
June 3rd, 2009
11:54 pm
FIRE COX promote Pendleton to Manager. Fire Wren make Leo the GM. Then trade Franceour for David Wright, and release Chipper. Then trade Kawakami for Raul Ibanez and all our worries are over. This makes no sense but neither does 80% of bloggers on this site.
I keep saying this…when you say “get rid of _____” then tell us how and who will replace them, or SHUT UP!!!!
TDub
June 3rd, 2009
11:55 pm
I go to Chicago for two days and the Braves go crazy-eight bonkers. WTF?
Frank F'in Wren
June 3rd, 2009
11:56 pm
The Glav decision was the right move, but to reach this conclusion so late is mind boggling. Make no mistake, atleast he made the right move, albeit later rather than sooner.
Trey06
June 3rd, 2009
11:56 pm
DOB
What’s the plan for Barton? His AAA numbers weren’t that impressive. And even though he had 6 SBs he was caught 4 times (I thought he was safe tonight) so he doesn’t give us anymore speed off the bench than Blanco.
Rock On....(the denizen formerly known as Dadgum)
June 3rd, 2009
11:56 pm
Bravesfanforever….I will pretend that your 11:36 was never posted. You should do the same. Probably the most erroneous comment of the night.
David O'Brien
June 3rd, 2009
11:57 pm
Andy K, yes, I can see that, Schafer (next year) and Heyward (in another year or so) at the corners, McLouth in center.
N8
June 3rd, 2009
11:57 pm
KC, great point. I heard Wren say just the same on radio, and later on ESPN. Thats why you hire people you trust in those positions. So they make you look good. Then when those guys fail, you have “fall guys”.
People are acting like Wren himself was at each of Glavine’s rehab starts, and made up his own mind.
That doesn’t mean that the scouts aren’t wrong, or might be wrong. But they gave Wren an opinion, and he ran with it.
Robert
June 3rd, 2009
11:57 pm
“Will Braves build off thrilling win?”
Not as long as Donk keeps letting Bennett pitch in close games
Cyndi Lauper's Aura
June 3rd, 2009
11:58 pm
FFW, when was he supposed to make the decision, before he fully evaluated Tom Glavine’s rehab?
Chop Chop
June 3rd, 2009
11:58 pm
What should I add, Steve?
McLouth is a legit bat. A Garret-N8 (haha)-Diaz outfield would kinda come close to some okay offense. The D would be bad, but I don’t care about D. I want Bobby to hit McLouth fifth. I like McCann in the cleanup spot. McLouth would give him solid protection.
SoWeGa Fanatic
June 3rd, 2009
11:59 pm
First, I love Tom Glavine ( in a manley way). But, it boils down to who will help win the most – Glav or Hanson. Braves did the right thing, and I don’t know how it could have been done differently.
The McLouth deal (why can’t we get a Smith) is very good news. These moves today make the rotation better, the bullpen better, the offense better, the defense better, and the speed better. How can you not like it? And, on top of all that, this team looks more awesome in ‘10, ‘11, and ‘12.
richbrave
June 3rd, 2009
11:59 pm
Holy crap. I shut down because of heavy T-storms, and when I come back the BRAVES nation is turned on its ear. GLAVINE sacked. My man CHARLIE MORTON gone. McLOUTH and HANSON in the house. WOW!!!! What a day. Well, better to make all of the moves at once.
I like the trade despite my particular affinity for righty MORTON, and GORKYS HERNANDEZ. I think a four year deal with a 27 year old All-Star CF’r’s the thing to do once the SCHAFER experiment blew up. It’s obvious we can’t lean on the thin reed that is GREGOR BLANCO. It was great for the team.
Lefty LOCKE has not been doing particularly well here. I see MORTON starting for the PIRATES soon. HERNANDEZ in a while. LOCKE’s a lefty, anything is possible.
The RENTERIA trade jusr gets better and better. We get a plus starter and an excellent CF in the end. YES-S-S. CAMPILLO hidden on the DL for the time being. There may be a trade in that area along with CARLYLE coming. Not so sure about REYES with MORTON gone. BARTON will be given a chance to prove himself in a back-up role and a message sent to GA that time is fleeting. If BRIAN shows well its sayonara for GREGOR.
Now tonight’s game. In a word – BENNETT. As soon as BOBBY had him start the second inning of work I had that sinking feeling again. I suppose BC figured O’FLAHERTY would put out the fire that I knew BENNETT would create. So with runners on third and first with one out, I tuned out trusting to luck and waiting for the inevitable.
KRIS MEDLEN will now be tried as the main middle reliefer. We desperately need a pitcher who can go two, three innings of EFFECTIVE relief on a regular basis. MEDLIN will be given that opportunity I believe.
So much for today’s events. Say is McLOUTH a lead-off guy or a power #5 hitter? LOWE, JURGENS, VASQUEZ, HANSON, KAWAKAMI. Here’s hoping.
Wayne in Utah
June 3rd, 2009
11:59 pm
Thanks Dave. Kinda what I figured on this trade being the big one. I guess you never know what kind of players might become available later in the summer though.
Has there been any talk as to where they will hit NM in the lineup? I know it would be tempting to hit him in the leadoff spot for a while, but my gut tells me they put him in the 4 or 5 spot. (maybe they have already stated a lineup preference)
NM doesn’t hit for a very high average, even when going well he is a .275 hitter. Is that good enough to bat third if Chipper is out???
When does McLouth get into town?
Steve from OH
June 3rd, 2009
11:59 pm
Dave, do you know how Schafer’s demotion will affect his service time clock i.e. with a certain amount of time in AAA this season will we be able to get six seasons of club contol starting in 2010?
bravos2249
June 3rd, 2009
11:59 pm
Did the Braves use Schafer demote as a smoke screen?
I mean with the deal set to go down, there was no reason we couldn’t have done well with Jordan for 2-4 more games.
N Nine
June 3rd, 2009
11:59 pm
Rock On..
Actually that award goes to that kooldude two posts later…
Tomahawkin
June 4th, 2009
12:00 am
I’d Rather have Ned Yost as manager… But that will be another painful thing to address for the Braves F.O.
Doc Holiday
June 4th, 2009
12:01 am
KC,
well said.
Frank F'in Wren
June 4th, 2009
12:01 am
My scouts are blind, but they couldn’t hear a mitt pop when Glavine threw and recommended wisely. Power pitching wins World Series.
Wayne in Utah
June 4th, 2009
12:02 am
Dang it, isn’t it game time already???
uga-brave
June 4th, 2009
12:02 am
actually it is the andy marte trade that keeps on giving. we got renteria for marte.
Steve from OH
June 4th, 2009
12:02 am
Chop Chop, but I though the fifth spot was just soooo perfect for Kelly Johnson! What about Kelly?
I agree, fwiw, but hitting him anywhere will improve our offense. Gotta do something about our right field sinkhole though.
WTF
June 4th, 2009
12:02 am
If its all about “Perfromance Decisions” and not “Business Decisions” then when are we going to cut Jeff Bennett, Frenchy, Kelly Johnson, The entire LF contingency….
One of these things is not like the other….
Chop Chop
June 4th, 2009
12:03 am
I didn’t want Glavine on the team, but I’m not buying the “Glavine can’t get big league hitters out” argument. That’s why it’s better to have chumps like Rodrigo Lopez or Russ Ortiz or similar cannon fodder as “possible fifth starter” options. When you **** a Hall of Famer like Wren ****ed Glavine today, there’s something wrong with it. You expect guys like Lopez or Ortiz to be released because you were ready to give a kid a chance. You don’t expect it to happen to guys who helped make your club worth a damn.
csg
June 4th, 2009
12:03 am
Andy K, yes, I can see that, Schafer (next year) and Heyward (in another year or so) at the corners, McLouth in center.
I disagree. Schafer will be in CF and McLouth in LF
blueridge
June 4th, 2009
12:04 am
I really like the timing of these moves. The past couple of years have been loaded with ‘what ifs’ and ‘what could have beens’. This set of moves is aggressive and it will go along way to define FW’s legacy. Let’s hope this is the McGriff move and not the Tex move that defined JS’s tenure.
Wayne in Utah
June 4th, 2009
12:04 am
Here’s to hoping the best for N8 Mac and Tommy “Heat”son!!!
csg
June 4th, 2009
12:04 am
now if we could just get rid of the big BLACK HOLE IN RF