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2,351 comments Add your comment
Random
June 22nd, 2009
11:17 pm
Joebrave (June 22nd, 2009 9:38 pm): “Joe Simpson is Jeff Stenchcouers secret lover!!!”
You mean, like you’re your own secret lover?
(Except it’s no secret.)
Roman Gal
June 22nd, 2009
11:18 pm
Steve-
I’ll email you that outline first thing in the morning.
[uncrosses fingers]
nolie
June 22nd, 2009
11:19 pm
Did Bob Horner ever play in the minors, at all? I know he and his sidekick Bucky Woy refused at one point. Can’t remember if he eventually went down for a few weeks or not. (SHAMUS)
no he never did, and i mentioned him earlier. Al Kaline never did either, right out of high school as a bonus baby.
Steve from OH
June 22nd, 2009
11:21 pm
I’m with Coach on this one. I don’t see KK being traded at all, and while I really, really like Vazquez (he’s my favorite to watch right now) he’s the most likely trade candidate. Whether or not we do it or should do it is a different story, because the gain in run production from the bat we’d hypothetically get won’t always necessarily equal or over-weigh the value of JV’s run prevention. That, and we don’t have a proven commodity to take over for him anyway.
jason
June 22nd, 2009
11:21 pm
A few tid bits on tonights game. Who all jumped Chipper’s arse for the swing and miss on the hit and run. Chip is the most professional hitter on the team. He has to make contact. A line out double play would have been exceptable.
I thought Frenchy looked decent at the plate tonight. He and KJ both showed a lot of patience. I just didn’t like His last AB.
KJ looked good. Took a lot of pitches. That tells me that he might be ready to go on one of his runs. He saw at least 10 pitches in two ABs.
Prado relieved KJ at 2B and did well what Prado does. He worked the count and singled to help the chances of tacking on an extra run. Two really good plays out a the “Keystone” also.
GA aka LOAF… Seems to be heating up. Helps playing these AL teams that he is familiar seeing. D still sucks bad. I was nervous everytime a ball was hit to LF.
Great hustle play by McCann. Unfortunately for naught. I like his fire. When Chipper finally hangs it up, that there will be your leader. He will get in some Arse if need be. That’s my thinking anyway.
Everytime I watch McLouth play the more I am loving the trade FW pulled off. He is that grit player people are thinking of when they long for the Youlk in Boston. He hustles, just a blue collar, hard nosed ball player to go along with McCann and Prado.
Finally, Vasquez fought tonight. He didn’t have his best stuff and he fought tooth and nail for that win. I am glad that Moylan, Gonzo and Soriano came in and slammed the door to assure it.
I hate games like this, and the one yesterday ( even though it was a loss). Games like these want to let you get your hopes up. If ATL had any offense at all they would be running away with the NL East. 29-7 when scoring at least 4 runs per. That tells me that ATL gets a lot of quality starts from the rotation. Lowe, JJ, Vasquez, and KK should be applauded for the outstanding performances that they have delivered so far. Hopefully they can keep this up if and when the offense starts to pick up steam.
Paul Lentz
June 22nd, 2009
11:23 pm
Epinephrine………no doubt that the better 5 man rotation would be to keep Hudson (if he can return to pre-injury form). However we have to deal with reality. The Braves are not going to put Kawakami in the bullpen. It would be financial suicide to have an $8 mil a year long relief guy.
The Braves could deal Kawakami. However, that would pretty much shut out the Braves when it comes to tapping the Japanese talent pool in the future. The Japanese are “big” on respect. Trading Kawakami, especially if he continues to pitch like he has been since his the first of May, would be a slap in the face as far as the Japanese are concerned.
The Braves could go with a 6 man rotation. However, that would seriously handcuff the Braves ability to improve the offense.
It isnt that I want to see the Braves get rid of Vazquez or Hudson. If the Braves had flexibility in the payroll, and if the Braves had a right fielder who could hit with power……..then there would be no need to even think about getting rid of either pitcher.
However, the Braves have to deal with a budget AND the Braves need a right fielder who can hit with some FREAKING power.
So if the Braves keep both Hudson and Vazquez like you want them to, then there is no way that the Braves can improve the offense. No way. Do you really want to see Jeff Francoeur playing right field for the Braves next year?
However, if the Braves keep Vazquez, then they can decline Hudson’s option for 2010 and use the $12 that they were going to pay him………..to acquire a free agent slugger who can play right field. When you factor in the $3.375 mil that the Braves could save from this year by non-tendering Francoeur……then the Braves would have over $15 mil to go towards getting that slugger to play right.
In essence, the Braves would be “trading” Tim Hudson and Jeff Francoeur (by cutting them) for a slugger who can play right field (via free agency). Considering the fact that Hudson has yet to throw a pitch this year….and the fact that Francouer has SUCKED this year…..wouldnt it be a good thing to use that money to get us a slugger who can play everyday in right via free agency?
Roman Gal
June 22nd, 2009
11:25 pm
It’s been really nice to see Kelly taking pitches just like he used to. That’s what he needs to do when he’s struggling like he has been this month. It never seemed like as big of a deal to me in ‘07 when he was in one of his slumps, because he was still walking at a really good rate.
Coach (2010 or Bust)
June 22nd, 2009
11:27 pm
Rob, the Mets are not winning. They are 7-12 so far this month. Their injuries are to blame.
cabravesfan
June 22nd, 2009
11:28 pm
KK is making $6.6 million in ‘10 & ‘11, not $8 million (his entire contract is 3/$23 million)
nolie
June 22nd, 2009
11:28 pm
Mac and Frenchy skipped AAA, and it didn’t seem to hurt Mac, although the jury is still out on Frenchy (Wayne)
I would say that you are one of the few who think the jury is still out on Jeff, but good for you.
However there is at least some chance that added time in AAA would have helped him.
Anyway, my original comment was about AAA vs AA as a league, not on whether or not some guys can skip AAA. Obviously some can.
As you say it is an individual thing. For the most part I am against it unless the team is in dire need. My guess is that the earliest we will likely see Heyward is mid-2010 especially if the Braves have another mediocre year.
It’s all just speculation though I admit.
rob from sc
June 22nd, 2009
11:29 pm
We gambled that Francoeur would be fixed and produce the numbers he did in 2006 and 2007. I can’t fault Wren for this decision. I thought he could right the ship as well. Wren did a tremendous job fixing our rotation without trading our top prospects.
Epinephrine
June 22nd, 2009
11:30 pm
I agree re: Javy. I said it was a pipe dream. It’s just a shame, because Huddy is a quality pitcher and a real competitor out there…And the man eats innings like it is his job. Pairing him, Javy, and Lowe…I mean that’s about 7 IP per start on a choppy night.
It’s just too bad.
Anyway, Bravos definitely need a bat, and that’s probably where it is going to come from.
Paul Lentz
June 22nd, 2009
11:30 pm
I like Ted Turner’s quote when asked by a reporter if sending Bob Horner down to Triple A is going to destroy him: “It aint like I’m sending him to Vietnam”, lol. (This happened in early 1980).
Now that was funny. Vietnam, lol!
jason
June 22nd, 2009
11:30 pm
rob from sc, I like the idea of a 6 man rotation. I do however think it is a pipe dream. It makes to much sense for this year. Like you said in reference too extra rest for KK and Hanson. Also for Huddy. He is coming off of the Tommy John. It really rests the rotation as a whole through the end of a hot August. Therefore have a well rested rotation for the playoffs. That is if we can get the “O” going.
Coach (2010 or Bust)
June 22nd, 2009
11:31 pm
Lentz, I’m only gonna say this once.
You my friend are off your freaking rocker if you think the Braves are going to decline Tim Hudson’s option. I’ll put my money where my mouth is and pledge to never blog again if this were to happen. That’s how sure I am of my opinion on the subject of Tim Hudson pitching in an Atlanta Braves uniform in 2010.
Epinephrine
June 22nd, 2009
11:31 pm
I think everyone needs to keep in mind that Heyward has barely even played in high A ball given his injuries, much less proving he is ready to for AA (though his power numbers given the limited playing time are something to get excited about).
rob from sc
June 22nd, 2009
11:32 pm
nolie
How would youfix this team and what players on our team and minors would you build around.
cabravesfan
June 22nd, 2009
11:32 pm
Just reading about the AAA debate- and I may be wrong about this but I seem to recall reading somewhere a few years back something about the Braves being a bit reluctant to send some of their top prospects to AAA because the M-Braves were so much closer in case they needed someone in a hurry…not sure if there is any truth to that but it was interesting…
rob from sc
June 22nd, 2009
11:33 pm
Heyward is not injury prone. He pulled his oblique. S*** happens
fastasballs
June 22nd, 2009
11:33 pm
I have to give it to Loaf, he’s been hitting as of late. Regardless the nickname will stick for the remainder of his time with the Braves. I have no idea why I find it hilarious that the blog nicknamed him Loaf, but I giggle every time someone posts a Loaf comment.
Maybe I need help, maybe I live a boring life, whatever the reason Loaf is the perfect nickname in my book.
On another note any of you guys fool with old motorcycles? Kawasaki H2 triples to be exact. I’m sure some of you loons must ride bikes, it would explain a lot.
bravos2249
June 22nd, 2009
11:33 pm
I sorry but why would one ask Frenchy about driving in runs…LOL
Roman Gal
June 22nd, 2009
11:34 pm
cabravesfan-
The facilities in Pearl are a lot nicer than those in Richmond. They don’t have to worry about that anymore.
cabravesfan
June 22nd, 2009
11:35 pm
Roman Gal-
that was a few years ago- obviously before they moved the AAA team…it made sense to me, actually, but like I said- not sure how true it was
rob from sc
June 22nd, 2009
11:35 pm
I say we gear up to sign Jason Bay in the offseason. Use Nate McLouth to lure him hear and out bid everyone like we did Derek Lowe
Random
June 22nd, 2009
11:35 pm
Bob Horner? Did someone mention Bob Horner? Bucky Woy?? AAA???
keylargo (June 22nd, 2009 11:02 pm): “DOWN RANDOM”
Okay, okay — deep breath.
As I recall, Horner/Woy refused to allow Horner to start at AAA level because of some significant difference (in their eyes, at least) between the provisions of a minor league contract and a major league contract — some right that Horner would have given up or some obligation he would have to take on.
It figures that I can’t remember the specific clause. Sigh
May have had something to do with starting the arbitration clock — I don’t know what the CBA provided for back then. Or maybe he wanted to avoid minor league drug testing. Or maybe it was something to do with the legal relationship at the time between the Richmond and Atlanta clubs. I don’t know anymore.
PS: “Navicular”.
Steve from OH
June 22nd, 2009
11:36 pm
Did anyone see Tiger’s interview after his round today? The dude is the best golfer I’ve ever seen, but my God, he can be such a d!ck sometimes. You shot par at the US Open, dude. Nothing to get all whiny about. Meanwhile Mickelson, despite choking (again) and a difficult personal situation is an absolute gentleman and answers all of the media’s questions.
I’ve got a ton of respect for Tiger’s game, but he really needs to work on how he handles losing.
Epinephrine
June 22nd, 2009
11:36 pm
Whatever happened, oblique, hip, or hamstring, he isn’t garnering a lot of experience down there.
Epinephrine
June 22nd, 2009
11:37 pm
Steve, he probably wouldn’t be anywhere near the same player if he could handle losing. Sometimes you can’t have it both ways.
7
June 22nd, 2009
11:37 pm
rob of sc…would love to have a trade for Milkey Cabrera while NNY in town.
rob from sc
June 22nd, 2009
11:37 pm
I am interested to see what Cody Johnson can do at higher levels.
nolie
June 22nd, 2009
11:38 pm
6 man rotation in August (Rob)
my guess is that it won’t happen on a regular basis, cause Bobby is pretty conservative about that kinda stuff. As to whether it is a good idea, my observations over the years is that anything that disrupts a working routine that is already established is usually not successful. I do think that they will try to work Huddy in some to get a better feel for his rehab, but I doubt it will be a full-scale 6 man rotation.Perhaps JJ will get a few games off if his innings count gets near 200 early, or if someone cools off that guy might some relief. If it worked at all you would think that really hot venues like Atlanta would be the likely place.
Steve from OH
June 22nd, 2009
11:38 pm
Epi–sure that’s true, but he could pull himself together and not be such a prima donna during his interviews. I don’t know why I’m so hung up on this, but it kinda gets me with how rude he can be sometimes.
rob from sc
June 22nd, 2009
11:39 pm
My question is what position do we need to fill long term. I envision a McLouth-Schafer-Heyward outfield by 2011. Chipper and Escobar are set at 3B and SS. McCann set at Catcher. I like Freeman a lot. Where will the big bat play
rob from sc
June 22nd, 2009
11:40 pm
Nolie
We need to watch Hanson’s innings this season too.
Paul Lentz
June 22nd, 2009
11:40 pm
rob from sc………….totally agree with your posting at 11:29pm. Frank Wren performed a minor miracle in improving the starting rotation without giving up the farm system.
Yet many of these MORONS keep saying “Fire Frank Wren”. How soon these idiots forget about the debacle that was called our starting rotation last year. These same so-called Braves fans cried this winter for the Braves to re-sign Smoltz, Hampton, and Glavine. I’m glad that Wren had the sense to not listen to those MORONS and let Smoltz and Hampton go. I’m happy that Wren finally cut Glavine when it became obvious that Tommy Hanson was ready to pitch in the Majors in June. I was thrilled when Frank Wren had the courage to pull the Nate McLouth trade, despite the ramblings from these same MORONS about how the Braves gave up “too much”. And hopefully, Frank Wren wont listen to these same MORONS once again and do the right thing for the Braves and not pick up Hudson’s $12 mil option for 2010.
Combining the $12 mil that the Braves wont have to pay Hudson, with the $3.375 mil the Braves can save by non-tendering Francoeur………..will allow Frank Wren to get that elusive slugger who can actually hit for some power to play right field and bat clean-up for us.
Roman Gal
June 22nd, 2009
11:40 pm
I am interested to see what Cody Johnson can do at higher levels.
Many of us are. But he’s going to take more time than most prospects. I wouldn’t expect to see him in the Majors before the 2012 season.
TnBrian
June 22nd, 2009
11:41 pm
Call me crazy, but I don’t see Javy being traded this year. I think Wren will find a way to get that bat pretty soon without having to watch Javy dominate teams in another uniform. He’s been so good, better than Lowe/JJ IMO.
gd from nz
June 22nd, 2009
11:41 pm
It’s interesting to hear all these theories to improve the Braves by trading Vasquez, i think the assumption that he will be expendable because Hudson will be back in late August is a bit premature.
Doesn’t it take like, awhile, for pitchers to be back to their best after major elbow surgery? So what if Hudson doesn’t just slip right back into being a top-notch pitcher next year? What if he struggles into early to mid season next year as he recovers?
What will the bloggers say then when our starting pitching is weaker because we don’t have Vasquez and Hudson isn’t back to his best?
I think there is absolutely no way Bobby Cox and Frank Wren give more than a minutes thought to trading away one of the most reliabe pitchers the Braves have (at least before mid next season) because its a “sure thing” that Hudson will be back to his best in no time, therefore Vasquez is expendable. If it was me I just wouldn’t be prepared to take the risk that Hudson struggles and you’ve traded away a reliable pitcher, therefore next year the team is actually worse off.
Also, if i am Frank Wren and I even consider in my wildest nightmares trading Vasquez for a bat, it would have to be for a cheap long term contract for a star, if such a thing exists, and even if it does, the odds of pulling that off again this season would seem to be remote I’d think.
keylargo
June 22nd, 2009
11:42 pm
I’m agreeing with Coach. Tim Hudson will be a Brave in 2010. No way your former Ace is sent away.
I’ll throw this out for something to talk about:
I just looked up D. Lowe’s contract and I did not see a no trade. If JV continues to outpitch Lowe, offer him a contract extension in the $12 to $15 million range and have him as your Ace in 2010.
JV
JJ
Hudson
KK
Hanson
Just something to think about.
Epinephrine
June 22nd, 2009
11:42 pm
I agree-but sometimes it’s just the nature of the beast. It’s why you saw Jordan being a jerk to his teammates, and LeBron refusing to shake hands when the Cavs lost to the magic. A ton of great athletes play the game with class and skill. Phil is one of those. But he’s also the kind of guy that can’t make the big putt time and time again.
Guys like Jordan, LeBron, Tiger-losing destroys them. Even Roger Federer, the epitome of class, couldn’t give a real interview after losing Wimbeldon. Guys on that plane are just different.
jason
June 22nd, 2009
11:42 pm
nolie, Agree on the 6 man. I would like to see it. Just because we have 2 young pitchers; JJ and Hanson that I would like to see conserve some innings on their arms. You then Have Huddy coming off of surgery. Last you have KK, who I am thinking will eventually start wearing down. Even at 32 or 33 however old he is you have to trat him like JJ and Hanson because of the 6 man he pitched in Japan. Also ATL has 6 really good quality starters.
bravefaninok
June 22nd, 2009
11:42 pm
Coach (2010 or Bust)
June 22nd, 2009
11:31 pm
Lentz, I’m only gonna say this once.
You my friend are off your freaking rocker if you think the Braves are going to decline Tim Hudson’s option. I’ll put my money where my mouth is and pledge to never blog again if this were to happen. That’s how sure I am of my opinion on the subject of Tim Hudson pitching in an Atlanta Braves uniform in 2010.
I’ve read somewhere the braves have stated publicly they will pick up huddy’s option..
Epinephrine
June 22nd, 2009
11:44 pm
I’ll also say, it is nice to see David Duval back. Couldn’t stand him during the late 90s/Early 00s, thought he was so arrogant.
But in retrospect, he made a better foil for Tiger. He didn’t buckle under pressure-he just seemed oblivious, maybe even a little annoyed with it. Compared with the predictable “Phil is human” story line, having a guy out there that makes Tiger look emotional was a far more compelling rivalry. It’ll be interesting to see if he is back.
Paul Lentz
June 22nd, 2009
11:45 pm
Coach (2010 or Bust)………….ok, I’ll play along. If the Braves do pick up Hudson’s 2010 option….what do you propose they do with the rest of the rotation? 6 starters for 5 spots.
Also, how will the Braves be able to afford fixing the offense if they keep Hudson? Part of the reason why the Braves couldnt sign a quality offensive threat in this past off season was because the Braves are paying Hudson $15.5 mil to be on the disabled list.
James is Red
June 22nd, 2009
11:45 pm
Pretty good interview with Tim Hudson. Interesting stuff about the Braves clubhouse and his time with the A’s.
Great win tonight. And Wang tomorrow night. Something to build on.
Steve from OH
June 22nd, 2009
11:45 pm
You’re right, it is kinda the nature of the beast. On a related note, how can Phil miss greens by 50 yards and chip to within 3 feet, but not make 4 foot putts? Unbelievable. Now, of course, I would miss them, but c’mon Phil. I was rootin’ for ya despite those hideous pants.
rob from sc
June 22nd, 2009
11:46 pm
Paul Lentz
I am unsure what to do about Tim Hudson. I don’t believe he is a number one anymore. I might be wrong but he needs to prove he is healthy. Can he do that in a month and a half, I don’t know. except for 2006 he has been really good for us.
The rotation starts with Lowe-Jurrjens-Hanson-Kawakami.
I like the way Vazquez has pitched. He is a power pitcher that we need. If I were Frank Wren I would do everything possible to trade Kawakami and extend Hudson and Vazquez.
You win championships with pitching.
cabravesfan
June 22nd, 2009
11:46 pm
I would be beyond shocked if they went to a 6 man rotation- Huddy has already said he would pitch out of the pen if that was what they needed and most starters don’t like anything that messes up their routine. Just because we have 6 good starters doesn’t mean we have to start all of them. And if KK (or Hanson) start wearing down a bit, you can spot start Huddy (or Medlen) to give him a break…again, not a bad problem to have
Steve from OH
June 22nd, 2009
11:46 pm
Paul, you do realize that they allow you to trade players, right?
Paul Lentz
June 22nd, 2009
11:47 pm
rob from sc……….how can the Braves afford to possibly lure Jason Bay and sign him to a big contract, if they end up picking up Hudson’s $12 mil option for 2010?
rob from sc
June 22nd, 2009
11:49 pm
Here is why we talk about trading Vazquez. If Hanson, Jurrjens, Heyward, and Freeman are off limits as they should be, what else do we have to offer in a trade for an impact bat. I have not been impressed with Lowe, however Vazquez is pitching a lot better than his career averages. Lowe has been more consistent.
fastasballs
June 22nd, 2009
11:49 pm
keylargo, I was thinking that but you beat me to it. I’m liking the work Vazquez has given the Braves, his ERA is down to right about 3.20 & has looked much better than Lowe of late.
I also like Kawakami, he’s proven to be money in the big games he’s pitched in so far. Very few guys can pick their game up a notch or two in the big games. It’s hard for us to understand how much pressure he felt going up against DiceK & the media attention the game brought from Japan.
rob from sc
June 22nd, 2009
11:50 pm
Paul Lentz
Soriano, Gonzalez contracts come off the books. Francoeur and his 5 million will be gone as well. If we keep Hudson then Vazquez or Kawakami will be traded. That is a lot of freed up money
cabravesfan
June 22nd, 2009
11:50 pm
“Bennett could walk in a run with no one on base”
My new favorite quote
Doc Holiday
June 22nd, 2009
11:50 pm
There are only 6 teams with winning records on 1-run games………the braves are one of them
gd from nz
June 22nd, 2009
11:51 pm
In the real world no way Hudson’s option is not picked up, in fantasy league you can do this really easily but not in the real world.
This may cause payroll issues (which I’m not an expert on, don’t have time to analyse all that stuff) which may explain why in the real world the Braves won’t add another bat. Sometimes you can’t just keep making trades to fix problems, sometimes time is the cure, team culture – sometimes you just have to crack the whip and tell the current team to fix the performance problems themselves.
I’ve never heard a teams performance being fixed by trading the best players (I’m talking Vasquez here) – any one think of any examples where a team trades away one of its best pitchers and then goes on to win anything?
TnBrian
June 22nd, 2009
11:51 pm
Well, Wren and the Braves are in a funny position because you don’t want to just trade a pitcher like Vazquez, even for a power bat as it might open up a big hole in the rotation. Think about it, Lowe and JJ are solid, but Hanson is a rookie, Kawakami has been anything but consistant and Hudson is coming off of major surgery. But, he definitely needs to find another OF and I see Frenchy and his money leaving as the main way to do it. Who wants Frenchy though? Almost everything Wren has done as GM here so far has me confident that he’ll figure out a way to improve the team in ‘09 and preserve the future.
cabravesfan
June 22nd, 2009
11:51 pm
rob from sc-
so you wouldn’t sign either Soriano or Gonzalez?
Doc Holiday
June 22nd, 2009
11:51 pm
I was talking about the NL.
jason
June 22nd, 2009
11:52 pm
I would have to say that either Lowe or somehow KK goes for a chance to resign Huddy. Vasquez has been the horse this year. I have not been that impressed with Lowe. People talk about KK, but Lowe seems to be on a 3-2 count to every batter. He is the pitomy of an innings eater.
JJ, Huddy, Vasquez, Hanson, and KK for 2010, and Medlen in the wings dor long relief and spot starts.
rob from sc
June 22nd, 2009
11:52 pm
Jo Jo Reyes and James Parr have negative trade value.
I would explore what we could get for Gonzalez. Some team could get desperate.
Doc Holiday
June 22nd, 2009
11:52 pm
There are 8 teams with winning records on extra inning games………..the braves are one of them…………NL
Paul Lentz
June 22nd, 2009
11:53 pm
keylargo……….If the Braves were to trade away Derek Lowe one year after they sign him as a free agent……especially if he continues to have a good year for us…….how easy do you think that it will be for the Braves to sign future “quality” free agents? What big time free agent would want to come to Atlanta, move his family here, and risk being traded after one year?
Plus Derek Lowe is a work horse……a proven play-off pitcher. Dude won the clinching game in all 4 play-off series back in 2004. If the Braves can get to the play-offs…..who would you rather have pitching Game 1 of any series? Derek Lowe, that’s who.
bravefaninok
June 22nd, 2009
11:53 pm
Paul Lentz
June 22nd, 2009
11:45 pm
Coach (2010 or Bust)………….ok, I’ll play along. If the Braves do pick up Hudson’s 2010 option….what do you propose they do with the rest of the rotation? 6 starters for 5 spots.
Also, how will the Braves be able to afford fixing the offense if they keep Hudson? Part of the reason why the Braves couldnt sign a quality offensive threat in this past off season was because the Braves are paying Hudson $15.5 mil to be on the disabled list.
insurance is paying a good portion of this i’m sure.
Everyone is forgetting that tommy hanson ,JJ &KK are gonna be running on fumes late this season(JJ ran out of gas about september last year)if we get to play meaningful games in september and hopefully october….we will need all six of these guys .
rob from sc
June 22nd, 2009
11:53 pm
cabravesfan
Soriano is making 6.6 mil this year. If he keeps it up he might want 10 Million. Gonzlaez will prob be cheaper.
We have a limited payroll. We are going to have to pick and choose.
Roman Gal
June 22nd, 2009
11:54 pm
I was rootin’ for ya despite those hideous pants.
So much talk about these pants…were they worse than Ron Gant’s suit tonight?
rob from sc
June 22nd, 2009
11:55 pm
cabravesfan
Take a look at the Angels. They need a closer because Shields is out for the year and Fuentes has been horrible.
Jose Arredondo has struggled and been sent to the minors. I would see if they would be willing to give up Brandon Wood and Arredondo for Gonzalez. It seems like a lot to give up for the Angels, but teams get desperate come July 31st
cabravesfan
June 22nd, 2009
11:56 pm
rob from sc-
I know- you said both their salaries come off the books…sounded like you felt we shouldn’t resign at least one of them- my bad if that’s not what you meant.
fastasballs
June 22nd, 2009
11:56 pm
Anyone think it’s wise to keep Medlin sitting in the bullpen? He’s used very little. If he’s viewed as a possible future starter shouldn’t he go back to AAA & pitch? He can always be called back at any time.
Cox doesn’t trust rookies coming out of the pen, Devine sealed the deal on that.
Paul Lentz
June 22nd, 2009
11:56 pm
rob from sc……….again, if the Braves were to trade Kawakami, then the Japanese talent pool will be closed to them forever. The Braves made a big deal about acquiring Kawakami. After a rocky April, he has rebounded nicely and made adjustments to consistently pitch into the 6th, 7th inning. If Moylan had had those 2 meltdowns, Kawakami would have 2 more wins.
Point is, if the Braves were to trade Kawakami, then the can forget about luring anymore Japanese players to Atlanta.
Steve from OH
June 22nd, 2009
11:57 pm
Roman Gal–I did not see the suit in question, but it would have to be quite hideous to out-do the tight white-and-brown striped pants…
rob from sc
June 22nd, 2009
11:57 pm
cabravesfan
It really depends on their contract demands. Soriano is having a contract year. I get scared paying closers huge money
Paul Lentz
June 22nd, 2009
11:57 pm
Steve from OH………….of course I “realize” that you can trade players. What would make you ask such a question?
rob from sc
June 22nd, 2009
11:58 pm
fastasballs
The Braves might be protecting Medlen’s exposure for a future trade.
rob from sc
June 23rd, 2009
12:00 am
First off it is going to be real hard to lure players from Japan because of the posting system. If and when Japan posts Yu Darvish we won’t have a chance against the Red Sox, Yankees, Mets ect.
cabravesfan
June 23rd, 2009
12:00 am
rob from sc-
yeah- Gonzo will be much cheaper (and he’s left handed) but who knows- maybe we will have the money to resign both…kinda tough to make that call in the middle of the season and I don’t want to lose either right now
Paul Lentz
June 23rd, 2009
12:01 am
rob from sc……….if the Braves dont resign Gonzales and Soriano……and end up non-tendering Francoeur……..and use the money to sign a slugger to play right field……my next question to you would be……….HOW THE HELL CAN THE BRAVES AFFORD TO SIGN A CLOSER?
rob from sc
June 23rd, 2009
12:02 am
cabravesfan
Maybe Frank Wren should offer both a contract extension and sign the first one to accept. Then he could trade the other.
Wren will have a lot of tough decisions to make over the next year and a half. Getting McLouth really helped the team for the future as well. He needs to make the call on Vazquez, Hudson. If Schafer fits into our long term plans. What to do with our FA closers. Wren will earn his money
Doc Holiday
June 23rd, 2009
12:02 am
You have to tip your hat to the muts, they just keep winning while 80% of their core is on the DL. Braves are healthy and they just cant pass them in the standings.
rob from sc
June 23rd, 2009
12:04 am
Paul Lentz
We are going to have to choose. Unless a owner with money buys us again, we need to make tough decisions. I would try to get Arredondo from Anaheim.
Roman Gal
June 23rd, 2009
12:04 am
Steve-
That’s too bad. It looked like a couch that had been left out in the sun for a few years and lost all of it’s color.
rob from sc
June 23rd, 2009
12:06 am
Just checked on Craig Kimbrel. Man he has been unhittable at Rome since getting sent down. Hopefully he made the adjustmeents to succeed at higher levels.
cabravesfan
June 23rd, 2009
12:06 am
Rob from sc-
I’m pretty sure they are not giving up on Schafer any time soon
It will be interesting to see if Wren trys to get a deal done with either Sori or Gonzo (or both) in the next few weeks…that’s a question that hasn’t even come up here yet- might even make them easier to trade if other team knew it was more then a few month rental
Paul Lentz
June 23rd, 2009
12:07 am
bravefaninok………..Again, I understand the position of wanting to keep 6 starting pitchers. However, if the Braves do that, then there is NO WAY the Braves can make a run at the Phillies and Mets. Our offense lacks power, especially from the right field position.
Most of you dont want the Braves to trade a starting pitcher for a slugging right fielder……Neither do most of you want the Braves to trade our top prospects for a slugging right fielder.
So if the Braves dont use a starting pitcher or top prospects as trade bait…………the my next question is: HOW THE HELL DO THE BRAVES GO ABOUT ADDING POWER TO THIS YEAR’S TEAM?
Here’s a news flash for some of you: NO TEAM IS GOING TO GIVE US A SLUGGING RIGHT FIELDER FOR OUR TRASH (Francoeur, Kelly, Jo Jo, etc).
fastasballs
June 23rd, 2009
12:08 am
That’s true about the Mets, I hate them so but it’s hard not to feel sorry for them. No way they keep winning with that rag tag group of players they are forced to play.
The more you look at the Mets with their injuries & the Phillies with their pathetic pitching I think the Braves may have a chance. Neither one of those two teams is going to run off anytime soon. The Marlins actually are looking good, wouldn’t it be the Braves luck to pass the Phillies/Mets only to have the Marlins sneak in & win it.
nolie
June 23rd, 2009
12:09 am
How would youfix this team and what players on our team and minors would you build around. (Rob)
I hate to let you down, but I’m not sure that I have a meaningful answer for you there. I still have some friends in BB but none of them are with the Braves so mostly what I hear is what you hear plus a few rumors now and then. My health no longer allows me to spend several months each summer attending the minor league games.
I think Wren did a pretty good job last winter fixing the biggest problems. I think he would have liked to get a better hitter but could not afford one. I think there were too many problem to fix in one year, though that Jason Bay deal would have helped. Too bad it fell apart.BTW it does show that Frank can keep a deal under the counter so to speak. There were some rumors, but it didn’t get as much play as it should have.
In general I think that most fans think it is easier to be successful than it really is, and I think Braves fans arelikely to feel that way even more with all those winning seasons.
Reading the blogs, there are just so many people who are spoiled and just assume that we can get back. Remember the Pirates who have been a laughing stock for 15 years or more now were a very successful team in the 80s & early 90s. It doesn’t necessarily happen again right.
There is just so much luck and or timing involved.
I like the way that Boston runs their program, but they are helped greatly by the fact that they have enough money to compensate if they do err. Something that the Braves do not have much of.
I like the fact that they are building again around pitching first, and I hope this winter will allow them to pick up a good hitter.
I was one of the first guys on here to champion Prado, though I have so far favored Kelly as starter because he does have a higher ceiling IMO. I am starting to agree that it might be time to trade him and go with Prado/Infante even though they will never carry a team like Kelly can for a time.
I’m a big believer in Heyward, somewhat less in Freeman and Schafer. G JOhnson has a long way to go, but he is young so he may continue to learn, I am more impressed with his better BA and OBP than I am with the 20 dingers since there has never been a question about his power.
Hicks is one I am not much on at all. He has been a bit old for his levels and still hit in the .230s. Not so good IMO. Again no question about his power-or his D- but he has less time to come around than Cody has.
‘Bout all I can say I guess
keylargo
June 23rd, 2009
12:09 am
J. Vazquez can be a really dominating pitcher in the second half of the season. I did not realize how dominating until I found his stats from the 2nd half of 2007. You have always heard that he was a strikeout pitcher and an inning eater but look at what he did -
July – Sept 2007 11W – 3L
128 Innings pitched
47 earned runs for an ERA of 3.30
WHIP <1.2
120 strikeouts
That is outstanding for the second half. Just outstanding.
If not for the Braves, FW get those stats out there!
Doc Holiday
June 23rd, 2009
12:11 am
For those criticizing moylan………..in his last 27 appearances he has allowed ER in only 4 games…………….thats 23 out of his last 27 appearances without allowing ER.
Salamander
June 23rd, 2009
12:12 am
It really depends on their contract demands. Soriano is having a contract year. I get scared paying closers huge money
This… Plus he has an injury history.
That being said – where the heck would this team be without Soriano this year? Dude has been all sorts of lights out. However, if we get to the offseason and he is looking for Wood or Fuentes money (~8-10 mill a year), then Wren needs to say thanks but no thanks.
NO MORE BOBBY
June 23rd, 2009
12:13 am
Last?
( Dedicated to the losers who waste the first spot in the blogs with typing FIRST? )
Paul Lentz
June 23rd, 2009
12:13 am
rob from sc………..as reluctant as Bobby Cox is to use rookies late in games on the mound…..what makes you think that Bobby would just “turn over” the closing duties to a rookie pitcher from the Angels, particularly one who doesnt have experience closing at the Major League level?
You might want to think through your ideas before posting them. I dont see the Angels giving up that Arredondo kid.
rob from sc
June 23rd, 2009
12:13 am
Nolie
That is what I am saying
If the plan is to have a lineup of this in 2011
C – McCann
1B – Freeman
2B – Prado
SS – Escobar
3B – Jones
LF – McLouth
CF – Schafer
RF – Heyward
If that is the case then where do we put our impact bat.
Salamander
June 23rd, 2009
12:14 am
BTW it does show that Frank can keep a deal under the counter so to speak. There were some rumors, but it didn’t get as much play as it should have.
It also suggests what a leaky sieve the Padres Organization was over the winter. Wren couldn’t fart on the phone with Towers without a 3 page write up somewhere.
rob from sc
June 23rd, 2009
12:15 am
Paul Lentz
Get him now and allow him to develop into a closer. Bobby Cox might not be the manager next season.
Doc Holiday
June 23rd, 2009
12:15 am
fastasballs,
You feel sorry for the mets? They are 2 games ahead of us in the standings……..I think you should be feeling sorry for us.
rob from sc
June 23rd, 2009
12:16 am
Paul
The Angels need to fix their pen if they want to go deep in the playoffs.
RHR
June 23rd, 2009
12:16 am
Btw DOB, notice how this works? Carroll writes blog about how terrible braves are, braves come out and look like they know whats going on in spite of the questionable lineup. I called it as soon as i read the blog today. This has been proven dozens of times this season so please oblige and use your powers for good and write about how terrible the braves are every day until october, por favor.
rob from sc
June 23rd, 2009
12:17 am
Paul
Most closers are starters in the minors leagues
Mariano Rivera
Kerry Wood
Rafael Soriano
Jonathan Papelbon
Francisco Rodriguez
Paul Lentz
June 23rd, 2009
12:18 am
rob from sc ……….I dont see the Angels giving up the Arredondo kid. Plus he is untested. If the Braves gave up Gonzalez this year to get him, then the Braves would basically be giving up on this season. I do not want to see O’Flarity or Moylan pitching in the 8th inning.
Roman Gal
June 23rd, 2009
12:18 am
Wren couldn’t fart on the phone with Towers without a 3 page write up somewhere.
I don’t remember any articles about Wren’s flatulence.