let’s get a bullpen arm and go on one of those fred mcgriffessque 2nd half runs. i would be willing to bet that no one wants to play us in the playoffs…not with our rotation!
**** ***** is exactly like Francoeur. He’s loud, obnoxious, pisses everyone off, showed some promise at the start of his career, and isn’t very good at what he does.
Tim Hudson has never been an “ace” for the Braves in it’s truest since. A fine pitcher indeed, perhaps hired with the intention that he would be to us what he was in Oakland, but he hasn’t put up “ace” numbers. He has won 15 games once. He has never been below 3 in ERA. I would call him a solid #2 guy.
And, seriously, anybody gotta link to DOB’s Hall Of Fame deal?
Most of us were watching the braves play when he was on. I think Heath and one of the Jeff’s maybe? were on top of it but I don’t remember what they said other than OMG! THERES DOB EVERYBODY!! Maybe they can give you a recap? Or maybe they put it on youtube for him.
Paul Lentz,
Just like most of the other topics you argue relentlessly on, I think the majority of knowledgable fans do agree with you on the Hudson to the pen issue. Just because two or three people who don’t understand the game very well disagree with you, and not many people come to your defense, it doesn’t mean you are standing alone in the minority. It’s just that most of the knowledgable fans on this blog don’t waste time arguing with the unknowledgable fans. If they don’t understand the game they will not understand the logic behind your points, so why waste your time? You just drive everyone crazy by saying the same things over and over again.
Tim Hudson has never been an “ace” for the Braves in it’s truest since. A fine pitcher indeed, perhaps hired with the intention that he would be to us what he was in Oakland, but he hasn’t put up “ace” numbers. He has won 15 games once. He has never been below 3 in ERA. I would call him a solid #2 guy.
You know, everyone has their definitions of what constitutes an “ace”, or a “number 2″, or a “number 4″, etc. But they’re not universally defined terms. So they’re not too useful in meaningful discussions.
AFter reading DOB’s blog, a question came to mind. With so much credit going to the starting rotation- and rightfully so- and so much criticism of the bullpen, should be back up and reassess where the problem might lie? If you look at the fact that Atlanta has three pitchers in the top eight of innings pitched, it may indicate that the load they have been carrying is beginning to show. The Braves may simply need another pitcher in the bullpen who can pitch innings in a setup capacity because they generally get six innings out of their starters and then go to the bullpen.
Lars Taint……………interesting points you made in you 6:32pm posting. It just seems like there are a number of people on here who cant understand a number of baseball related issues.
Whats About offering a new contract to Hudson if he comes back healthy, instead of paying him 12 mil offer him a 2-3 yr deal, i dont think he could command 12 mil a year in free agency, he’s 34 coming off major arm surgery and in this economy. If vesting his option means not enough funds to get a RH impact bat after, we should just buyout his contract and let him hit free agency.
Anyone have a Weather report for Miami tonight? I’m sure it will say possible T’Storms but after a day off I HAVE to get my fill of Braves Baseball in tonight and everytime you play in Miami you never know about the rain. Someone put on their Weather Hat and give us all some news on what we can expect tonight.
Another thing to consider is that command/control is often an issue for pitchers coming off TJ surgery–you typically don’t want pitchers with these issues pitching in late inning relief. In fact, a Tim Hudson that walks a ton of batters would look remarkably similar to…Peter Moylan. Da da daaaa [Ominous music]
So, tonight kicks off the biggest series of the season for both the Braves and the Marvins. Series winner gains sole possession of second place in the East and probably fourth place in the wild card race. A sweep just about eliminates the swept team from the race in the East and severely compromises the wild card race.
Game 1 has JJ versus Nolasco. For the Braves, this is a “must win.” The Braves ace versus the Marvins 3rd or 4th starter. If the Braves lose the first game, they will need to “break serve” against Johnson, the Marvins’ ace in Game Two to have a chance at the series win.
Game 2 has KK versus Johnson. Although Johnson has posted good numbers in 2009 (9-2, 2.80 ERA), the 135 innings is the most that Johnson has pitched since his career high of 157 in 2006 and considerably more than his 87.1 innings in 2008. This might be the time for Johnson to start regressing towards his career 3.29 ERA.
Game 3 has Vazquez versus VandenHurk in a battle of the V’s. VandenHurk has only started 2 games this season after pitching well for the Netherlands in the WBC. Will 2009’s 2.45 ERA VandenHurk show up? Or will the career 6.50 ERA VandenHurk face the Braves?
Braves have a chance (and a good one) to bury the Marvins.
Putting Hudson in the bullpen makes perfect sense. He likely wouldn’t improve the rotation very much right away, but he could fill a huge hole in the bullpen. Those who are saying he’s the Braves ace miss the point. That presupposes he’s going to be the same Hudson immediately upon his return to the mound. That’s a huge assumption to make. I’d rather just not mess with success. Leave the rotation as it is and put Hudson in a role where he can dramatically improve a certain area of the team.
Paul Lentz,
That is always going to be the case. But you just bait the haters in your posts, and then spend the rest of the night arguing with them. If you just make your points and ignore the people who don’t know what they are talking about, then your points will become more respected, and you only have to make your points once. Everyone already knows how you feel about KJ and Greg Norton. You don’t have to tell us 50 times a night.
So, DOB, your comment on Yunel handing out some cigars got me thinking: Did you get one as well? and secondly, imagine if all the international players would have a party and everyone would bring something from their homeland….
Yunel Escobar (Cuba) — Cigars or sandwich cubano
Matt Diaz (Spain, i think) — Papotas with ali-oli or sangria
Mike Gonzalez (Texas) — Chiles rellenos or What-A-Burger
Kenshin Kawakami (Japan) — sushi and saki bombs
Javier Vazquez (Puerto Rico) — the best rum
Rafael Soriano (Dominican Republic) — not entirely sure
Manny Acosta (Panama) — Some reggae music
Peter Moylan (Australia) — just his accent
Martin Prado (Venezuela) — some of the best-looking chicks in the world
I know it sounds kind of weird, but we have a good mix of different cultures, tho not quite the melting pot that is Miami! Have fun down there!
On another note, interesting to know Boone Logan is also a Texan, as is Kelly Johnson…
PWHjort
“Everyone has their own definitions as to what constitutes an “ace.”
I suppose if we(Braves) never had guys who won 15 games (as a minimum) year in and year out I might call Hudson our ace. I guess you are using the old “everything is relative argument.” “No absolute truth!” The facts are that Tim pitched much better in Oakland than he has Atlanta. But I still like the guy!
Paul Lentz — Listen to Lars , dude. Seriously you don’t have to respond to every freakin comment that gets made on here. The more you answer the more you get responded until pretty soon your responding to post from 3 pages back b/c your trying to argue every little point. Relax dude.
You don’t seem to understand that you are really just annoying with the repetition
And try to understand that your not always right, nobody is..
I know us Braves fans are really amped up for this series with the Marlins, we have not played them since May and our team has tweeked the team to make it much more productive and this will be a lot of fun to watch.
I think we have to get the first game because Johnson waits tomorrow night and he is tough tough. I just like that we are in this position that a series like this is NOW relevant to the standings (wild card or NL East) and like you all I will be on the edge of my seat watching with you all on my computer.
If the Braves don’t make any moves, McCann said he and others won’t be disappointed or upset at all. It’s not like the past couple of seasons at this time of the year.
“There’s a good mix of guys here,” he said. “This team has a chance to win. We’ve proven it the last month and a half. We just have to keep doing it the next two months.
OptimisticInTexas — did you just include Texas on your list of countries?? You know your just a state right?? That’s just typical Texas stupid ego talking.
Prolly shoulda said Midget House to make damn sure…Shamus
I think Kris Medlen would feel right at home there. And as for that “Dwarf House” nonsense…have you seen Truett Cathy? He wanted to have that little door on the front of the restaurants so he could feel at home. Ok…actually I don’t know how tall Mr. Cathy is. I should probably be nice, too, so if I ever see him when he visits I won’t feel all guilty for making fun of him.
I was just going to type in Mexico in that slot, but Mike is from Robstown, just outside Corpus Christi. I had to include the Whataburger, because if you have been here, you would love em. I spoke to an ESPN producer once, and she said that as soon as she got off the plane, she would go have one. And Texas is the size of Spain, more or less.
IF the braves game is likely to be rain-delayed, they SHOULD(but won’t) start Medlin and let JJ continue after the delay.
ALSO, DOB, have you visited Las Palmeros yet? FWI they re-opened Havana Sandwich outside the perimeter somewhere, though I can’t remember the location since I live RIGHT downtown.
I was at the WBC Finals in March, in LA… And the Japan-Korea game didn’t disappoint, on a number of levels. The only thing is, the shirts did most of the talking…
Man…I just hate seeing all these other teams, especially contenders, in the mix for upgrades. Kind of deflating to see a Boston go out and get a Cliff Lee (well, word is they’re about to).
I understand the fact we can’t take on more payroll. Just disappointing.
I’m of the thinking we don’t have enough despite all the optimism on here. Great starting pitching but I truly don’t feel we’ll have enough offense in the long haul.
I’ve done a lot of traveling in the past for work…Eastern European women are quite under-rated. Places like Romania and Hungary have some hidden gems for sure.
My crystal ball tells me there WILL be a Braves trade in the next couple days. Not major, not minor. I’m seeing Kelly Johnson, maybe a pitcher too, but not sure who we’ll get, or who we’re trading with.
I think it will happen, because the writers and others have been lulled to sleep by Wren & Cox, who are saying nothing’s happening. That’s usually when they pull the trigger.
Paul Lentz, don’t always agree with what you say, however 100% agree with you about Tim Hudson. Not sure what the Braves will do longer term, clearly you can’t have 6 top calibre starters but usually if you do a solution to that presents itseld with injury, etc.
But shorter term, I don’t think you’d really want to mess with a successful formula – I’m talking about the starters – so I wouldn’t try to fix something that ain’t broke.
But using Tim H as a short reliever surely makes sense and effectively means you don’t have to part company with anything of value to get another arm. Using him in the late innings helps share the load and I think with his makeup he would thrive in this type of role. We don’t need a long man as this implies there will be blow out losses and that is something I’m sure management aren’t planning for at this stage.
As for next year with the starters, that will be an interesting problem for the powers that be to work through
I going to punk Josh Johnson tomorrow night….. you wait and you see how dominate I be against that 6′7″ pile of dog poo….. hahahahaha! Can I get a wat wat! HAHAHAHAHA….. I LOVE AMERICA!!
No offense but Whataburger is the most over rated burger chain ever. I had one in California years ago and it was decent but nothing special. Hell give me Wendy’s over it.
Driver8, weather’s fine here. Almost no clouds right now, at least….
Pfunk, they moved Havana Sandwich shop way outside town. That sux. Loved that place. No, haven’t been to the other one you recommended, but I’ve got to soon. i always forget, the one in Midtown, right?
McFann: C’mon. We have an outfield of Garret, McLouth and Diaz/Church. (there’s a hole there, trust me) We have a first baseman that is probably in the bottom 2/3 of the league.
Eric from MO: agreed on What-a-Burger. I mean, come on. Texas has outstanding BBQ, one of the best places, for me, behind N.C. and K.C. I think Gonzo could throw that and some great Tex-Mex (or just pure Mexican) food out there and be done with it.
Curtis Jones: I’m not saying they won’t do anything. I’m saying I don’t think they’ll do anything significant, as far as taking on big salary or bringing in another starting-type position player. They might add a reliever, but not hearing any hot rumors on that front, either.
Maybe things change in next day or two. It can happen quickly, as it did with the Francoeur/Church thing, which all happened within 48 hours, start to finish. But we’re just telling you what we’re hearing right now, and Braves aren’t in middle of any real hot rumors, and are believed to be in that large group of teams not willing to trade away top prospects or add significant payroll.
Just got back; going up to see if I’ve been scandalized, to see how much I’ve shocked and offended, to see if anyone is physically yapping-up delicious pulled vittles because of any of my comments. If so, I’m saddened, ashamed, heartbroken, dismayed, and appalled, at myself, for my little soirees with indiscretion. I’m a jerk, a cad, and and idiot, I take full responsibility.
When I eat baked potatoes now, I don’t cut them at all, I pull them apart once cooled a tad. To spite my family, I pull pretty much everything at this point. Had pulled fried eggs at Waffle Louse this morning. Messy yes, but quite tasty sopped-up with pulled sausage and twice-pulled toast. They threatened to call police when galfriend held cup for attempt at semi-successfully java-pull.
(Only galfriend was ficticious, though rest was pack of lies too)
Well, I might as well go. Those who weren’t offended before my attempt at peace, are sure as Hell offended now…
You know, everyone has their definitions of what constitutes an “ace”, or a “number 2″, or a “number 4″, etc. But they’re not universally defined terms. So they’re not too useful in meaningful discussions.
These are my definitions:
An ace has a sub 3 ERA. A #2 has a 3 to 3.5 ERA. A #3 has a 3.5 to 4 ERA. A #4 has a 4 to 4.5 ERA.
An ace tosses 225 innings. A #2 goes goes 225. A #3 goes 200. A #4 goes 180 innings.
An ace is 6.5 wins above replacement. A #2 is 5 WAR. A #3 is 3.5 WAR. A #4 is 2 WAR.
In this free agency market, an ace makes $23 mil. A #2 makes $19 mil. A #3 makes $15 mil. A #4 makes $11 mil.
TommyP CK is slightly above average offensively and a top 3 defensively. So he is above average. GA is doing well. He was hurt early and late to camp. McLouth is a good outfielder and Diaz/Church is a really good platoon. Diaz is playing great. We have the 2nd best offense this month. We have a top 5 3rd baseman and shortstop. Prado has been great. McCann is one of the best two catchers in baseball, Mauer the other one. You will not have all stars at every position. We have a great lineup, and it is the 2nd best NL lineup in the past month, only better one is a team who ballpark is smaller than my high school baseball field.
The team needs a true cleanup hitter thats plays in either LF,RF,1B thats capable of hitting 30+ homers and 100+ rbi. I love McCann but he is no cleanup hitter. And he definitly doesnt protect Chipper who is near the top in walks in the League.
TnBrian actually it is in a really bad area. Over an hour from Miami and another city(cant remember which one.lol). It was built for the Dolphins and the commute isnt bad for football because there is only 8 games but baseball fans arent going to make that commute for 81 games.
Give me a break O’lyin.” The braves have always been good at beating up on grease. Put them up against legitimate competition and they’ll fold like a wet dishrag. They will finish high enough to real in suckers like you who think they are a player or 2 apart from being competitive. The braves are a player or two apart from being meaningless!
2,325 comments Add your comment
jeffrey d
July 28th, 2009
6:22 pm
That face makes me think of the old cartoon “AHOOOOOOGA!!” eyes
Driver8
July 28th, 2009
6:23 pm
Whoa…Mike S … never tried the Avocado …will have to! Now will make it a BLOAT which will do just that to me but will no doubt taste awesome!
Supes
July 28th, 2009
6:26 pm
Paul, Eric from MO and others who are advocating moving Hudson to the pen.
be careful of what you wish for, cause you just might get it all and then some you don’t want.
Oh wait, that’s a Daughtry song
JasonInFL
July 28th, 2009
6:26 pm
i have an
let’s get a bullpen arm and go on one of those fred mcgriffessque 2nd half runs. i would be willing to bet that no one wants to play us in the playoffs…not with our rotation!
Mike Rico in Mex
July 28th, 2009
6:26 pm
Hello Mates
PWHjort
July 28th, 2009
6:26 pm
**** ***** is exactly like Francoeur. He’s loud, obnoxious, pisses everyone off, showed some promise at the start of his career, and isn’t very good at what he does.
monty
July 28th, 2009
6:27 pm
Tim Hudson has never been an “ace” for the Braves in it’s truest since. A fine pitcher indeed, perhaps hired with the intention that he would be to us what he was in Oakland, but he hasn’t put up “ace” numbers. He has won 15 games once. He has never been below 3 in ERA. I would call him a solid #2 guy.
Just Pat
July 28th, 2009
6:28 pm
dogsbrekky……anyone who puts that much crap on great FRESH jumbo shrimp is……never mind!
monty
July 28th, 2009
6:28 pm
Truest “Sense.”
JasonInFL
July 28th, 2009
6:29 pm
bosox close to getting cliff lee…that will put the pressure on the phils to get a deal done with halladay…
RHR
July 28th, 2009
6:29 pm
And, seriously, anybody gotta link to DOB’s Hall Of Fame deal?
Most of us were watching the braves play when he was on. I think Heath and one of the Jeff’s maybe? were on top of it but I don’t remember what they said other than OMG! THERES DOB EVERYBODY!! Maybe they can give you a recap? Or maybe they put it on youtube for him.
RHR
July 28th, 2009
6:32 pm
Lew and other non-Chik-Fil-A having folks…that southern style chicken sandwich at mcdonalds is pretty darn close to the chikfila.
Lars Taint
July 28th, 2009
6:32 pm
Paul Lentz,
Just like most of the other topics you argue relentlessly on, I think the majority of knowledgable fans do agree with you on the Hudson to the pen issue. Just because two or three people who don’t understand the game very well disagree with you, and not many people come to your defense, it doesn’t mean you are standing alone in the minority. It’s just that most of the knowledgable fans on this blog don’t waste time arguing with the unknowledgable fans. If they don’t understand the game they will not understand the logic behind your points, so why waste your time? You just drive everyone crazy by saying the same things over and over again.
PWHjort
July 28th, 2009
6:32 pm
Tim Hudson has never been an “ace” for the Braves in it’s truest since. A fine pitcher indeed, perhaps hired with the intention that he would be to us what he was in Oakland, but he hasn’t put up “ace” numbers. He has won 15 games once. He has never been below 3 in ERA. I would call him a solid #2 guy.
You know, everyone has their definitions of what constitutes an “ace”, or a “number 2″, or a “number 4″, etc. But they’re not universally defined terms. So they’re not too useful in meaningful discussions.
BravesFanChris24
July 28th, 2009
6:33 pm
Want a good sandwich?
BLOTS Sandwich. Bacon…Lettuce…Onions….Tomatoes….Swiss Cheese!
I’ve had that a few times at a local place here, good stuff.
Prado's Posse
July 28th, 2009
6:35 pm
AFter reading DOB’s blog, a question came to mind. With so much credit going to the starting rotation- and rightfully so- and so much criticism of the bullpen, should be back up and reassess where the problem might lie? If you look at the fact that Atlanta has three pitchers in the top eight of innings pitched, it may indicate that the load they have been carrying is beginning to show. The Braves may simply need another pitcher in the bullpen who can pitch innings in a setup capacity because they generally get six innings out of their starters and then go to the bullpen.
Paul Lentz
July 28th, 2009
6:35 pm
Lars Taint……………interesting points you made in you 6:32pm posting. It just seems like there are a number of people on here who cant understand a number of baseball related issues.
VaBraveFan
July 28th, 2009
6:35 pm
Whats About offering a new contract to Hudson if he comes back healthy, instead of paying him 12 mil offer him a 2-3 yr deal, i dont think he could command 12 mil a year in free agency, he’s 34 coming off major arm surgery and in this economy. If vesting his option means not enough funds to get a RH impact bat after, we should just buyout his contract and let him hit free agency.
Just Pat
July 28th, 2009
6:36 pm
Wayne in Utah…..re:5:23 post……nope…..GOTTA be fresh WHITE bread or it’s not a GREAT tomato sandwich, IMHO!!!!!!
Prado's Posse
July 28th, 2009
6:37 pm
I correct myself from my earlier post. Atlanta has three of the top six in relief appearances. Still, same premise.
Driver8
July 28th, 2009
6:37 pm
Anyone have a Weather report for Miami tonight? I’m sure it will say possible T’Storms but after a day off I HAVE to get my fill of Braves Baseball in tonight and everytime you play in Miami you never know about the rain. Someone put on their Weather Hat and give us all some news on what we can expect tonight.
AustinBrave
July 28th, 2009
6:37 pm
Looks like Red Soxs got Cliff Lee. I wonder if they are going to release Smoltz.
Steve from OH
July 28th, 2009
6:37 pm
Another thing to consider is that command/control is often an issue for pitchers coming off TJ surgery–you typically don’t want pitchers with these issues pitching in late inning relief. In fact, a Tim Hudson that walks a ton of batters would look remarkably similar to…Peter Moylan. Da da daaaa [Ominous music]
Heath
July 28th, 2009
6:38 pm
Just over 2 days and 21 hours from the trade deadline…
McFann ;Ô;
July 28th, 2009
6:38 pm
JasonInFL i was going to respond, but McFann is the expert on such things…
Thanks!
Yeah, I know nothing about writing app’s…whatever they are!
Nova Scotia Steve its the eyes…the guy looks like he’s been on a major bender for a month…or longer
Ha! That or he just can’t get enough sleep. (I’m ready for the game, BTW.)
Driver8–
BLOTS, eh? I had forgotten about the ol’ BLT…been so long since we had them–last time was when I was still “afraid” to try them.
Now will make it a BLOAT which will do just that to me but will no doubt taste awesome!
abwright
July 28th, 2009
6:41 pm
Biggest Series of the Season so Far…
So, tonight kicks off the biggest series of the season for both the Braves and the Marvins. Series winner gains sole possession of second place in the East and probably fourth place in the wild card race. A sweep just about eliminates the swept team from the race in the East and severely compromises the wild card race.
Game 1 has JJ versus Nolasco. For the Braves, this is a “must win.” The Braves ace versus the Marvins 3rd or 4th starter. If the Braves lose the first game, they will need to “break serve” against Johnson, the Marvins’ ace in Game Two to have a chance at the series win.
Game 2 has KK versus Johnson. Although Johnson has posted good numbers in 2009 (9-2, 2.80 ERA), the 135 innings is the most that Johnson has pitched since his career high of 157 in 2006 and considerably more than his 87.1 innings in 2008. This might be the time for Johnson to start regressing towards his career 3.29 ERA.
Game 3 has Vazquez versus VandenHurk in a battle of the V’s. VandenHurk has only started 2 games this season after pitching well for the Netherlands in the WBC. Will 2009’s 2.45 ERA VandenHurk show up? Or will the career 6.50 ERA VandenHurk face the Braves?
Braves have a chance (and a good one) to bury the Marvins.
Or, to be buried.
letsgetrich
July 28th, 2009
6:42 pm
I’ve got a few Cohibas from my trip to Cuba in 07 while doing my MBA at UGA. Anybody want to buy one? Yes I am only selling one.
JM
July 28th, 2009
6:42 pm
Putting Hudson in the bullpen makes perfect sense. He likely wouldn’t improve the rotation very much right away, but he could fill a huge hole in the bullpen. Those who are saying he’s the Braves ace miss the point. That presupposes he’s going to be the same Hudson immediately upon his return to the mound. That’s a huge assumption to make. I’d rather just not mess with success. Leave the rotation as it is and put Hudson in a role where he can dramatically improve a certain area of the team.
Lars Taint
July 28th, 2009
6:42 pm
Paul Lentz,
That is always going to be the case. But you just bait the haters in your posts, and then spend the rest of the night arguing with them. If you just make your points and ignore the people who don’t know what they are talking about, then your points will become more respected, and you only have to make your points once. Everyone already knows how you feel about KJ and Greg Norton. You don’t have to tell us 50 times a night.
CrimeDog
July 28th, 2009
6:43 pm
Lars-
Don’t forget about Bobby continuing to use “his boy” Peter Moylan despite the fact that he is so INCONSISTENT in late INNING games.
OptimisticInTexas
July 28th, 2009
6:44 pm
So, DOB, your comment on Yunel handing out some cigars got me thinking: Did you get one as well? and secondly, imagine if all the international players would have a party and everyone would bring something from their homeland….
Yunel Escobar (Cuba) — Cigars or sandwich cubano
Matt Diaz (Spain, i think) — Papotas with ali-oli or sangria
Mike Gonzalez (Texas) — Chiles rellenos or What-A-Burger
Kenshin Kawakami (Japan) — sushi and saki bombs
Javier Vazquez (Puerto Rico) — the best rum
Rafael Soriano (Dominican Republic) — not entirely sure
Manny Acosta (Panama) — Some reggae music
Peter Moylan (Australia) — just his accent
Martin Prado (Venezuela) — some of the best-looking chicks in the world
I know it sounds kind of weird, but we have a good mix of different cultures, tho not quite the melting pot that is Miami! Have fun down there!
On another note, interesting to know Boone Logan is also a Texan, as is Kelly Johnson…
monty
July 28th, 2009
6:44 pm
PWHjort
“Everyone has their own definitions as to what constitutes an “ace.”
I suppose if we(Braves) never had guys who won 15 games (as a minimum) year in and year out I might call Hudson our ace. I guess you are using the old “everything is relative argument.” “No absolute truth!” The facts are that Tim pitched much better in Oakland than he has Atlanta. But I still like the guy!
Heath
July 28th, 2009
6:47 pm
OptimisticInTexas -
Venezuela and Brazil… mmmm.
Capt Caveman
July 28th, 2009
6:48 pm
Paul Lentz — Listen to Lars , dude. Seriously you don’t have to respond to every freakin comment that gets made on here. The more you answer the more you get responded until pretty soon your responding to post from 3 pages back b/c your trying to argue every little point. Relax dude.
You don’t seem to understand that you are really just annoying with the repetition
And try to understand that your not always right, nobody is..
Driver8
July 28th, 2009
6:49 pm
I know us Braves fans are really amped up for this series with the Marlins, we have not played them since May and our team has tweeked the team to make it much more productive and this will be a lot of fun to watch.
I think we have to get the first game because Johnson waits tomorrow night and he is tough tough. I just like that we are in this position that a series like this is NOW relevant to the standings (wild card or NL East) and like you all I will be on the edge of my seat watching with you all on my computer.
GO BRAVES – Let’s stick it to the FISH!
David O'Brien
July 28th, 2009
6:49 pm
If the Braves don’t make any moves, McCann said he and others won’t be disappointed or upset at all. It’s not like the past couple of seasons at this time of the year.
“There’s a good mix of guys here,” he said. “This team has a chance to win. We’ve proven it the last month and a half. We just have to keep doing it the next two months.
“This team … is really good.”
Heath
July 28th, 2009
6:49 pm
Heath
July 28th, 2009
6:47 pm
OptimisticInTexas -
Venezuela and Brazil… mmmm.
Oh….and blonde Braves fans in Southern California.
Capt Caveman
July 28th, 2009
6:51 pm
OptimisticInTexas — did you just include Texas on your list of countries?? You know your just a state right?? That’s just typical Texas stupid ego talking.
Nova Scotia Steve
July 28th, 2009
6:51 pm
Just saw on mlbtraderumors….that the Cliff Lee to Boston thing is totally false…
Someone hacked into Reporter Rob Bradfords Twitter account….aaaannnnddd 80
Nova Scotia Steve
July 28th, 2009
6:51 pm
daammnn it
Roman Gal
July 28th, 2009
6:52 pm
Prolly shoulda said Midget House to make damn sure… Shamus
I think Kris Medlen would feel right at home there. And as for that “Dwarf House” nonsense…have you seen Truett Cathy? He wanted to have that little door on the front of the restaurants so he could feel at home. Ok…actually I don’t know how tall Mr. Cathy is. I should probably be nice, too, so if I ever see him when he visits I won’t feel all guilty for making fun of him.
Bay Area Steve
July 28th, 2009
6:52 pm
as long as they’re whorogamous, Heath
Roman Gal
July 28th, 2009
6:52 pm
Well, poo…
Steve from OH
July 28th, 2009
6:53 pm
Roman Gal, your bolding snafu ruffles my feathers.
OptimisticInTexas
July 28th, 2009
6:53 pm
Capt Caveman,
I was just going to type in Mexico in that slot, but Mike is from Robstown, just outside Corpus Christi. I had to include the Whataburger, because if you have been here, you would love em. I spoke to an ESPN producer once, and she said that as soon as she got off the plane, she would go have one. And Texas is the size of Spain, more or less.
cabravesfan
July 28th, 2009
6:53 pm
Hi Heath
(leaving work…will be back in an hour or so- just an FYI
)
pfunkatl2
July 28th, 2009
6:53 pm
IF the braves game is likely to be rain-delayed, they SHOULD(but won’t) start Medlin and let JJ continue after the delay.
ALSO, DOB, have you visited Las Palmeros yet? FWI they re-opened Havana Sandwich outside the perimeter somewhere, though I can’t remember the location since I live RIGHT downtown.
Heath
July 28th, 2009
6:54 pm
Bay Area Steve -
Call me out of the loop, but I have no idea what that means.
Heath
July 28th, 2009
6:54 pm
cabravesfan -
I knew you’d be watching…had to make sure I didn’t forget ya!
Vinings Jim
July 28th, 2009
6:55 pm
cabravesfan – speaking of countdowns…
MiltonDawg
July 28th, 2009
6:55 pm
did you guys see that pirates play from last night? talk about luck and skill!!
OptimisticInTexas
July 28th, 2009
6:55 pm
Heath,
I was at the WBC Finals in March, in LA… And the Japan-Korea game didn’t disappoint, on a number of levels. The only thing is, the shirts did most of the talking…
Steve from OH
July 28th, 2009
6:56 pm
All these winky-faces have me feeling like I’m playing 3rd wheel to a particularly flirty couple…
The A Bomb
July 28th, 2009
6:56 pm
If the Braves don’t make any moves then they need to hire a carpenter to fill the gaping hole in the middle of Norton’s bats. Jeez.
Vinings Jim
July 28th, 2009
6:57 pm
Heath – I have to commend you, getting her attention just before she left work.
OptimisticInTexas
July 28th, 2009
6:58 pm
Steve from OH,
That was funny. Maybe the AJC should add PMs… LOL
Mixxo
July 28th, 2009
6:58 pm
Nova Scotia Steve & Soph !!
I’m “gametime crunk !!”
TommyP
July 28th, 2009
6:58 pm
Man…I just hate seeing all these other teams, especially contenders, in the mix for upgrades. Kind of deflating to see a Boston go out and get a Cliff Lee (well, word is they’re about to).
I understand the fact we can’t take on more payroll. Just disappointing.
I’m of the thinking we don’t have enough despite all the optimism on here. Great starting pitching but I truly don’t feel we’ll have enough offense in the long haul.
Hope I’m wrong.
McFann ;Ô;
July 28th, 2009
6:59 pm
Thanks for the quote, Chief!
I’m with those that won’t be disappointed. While I’d like a true cleanup hitter…where would he play? We really don’t have any huge holes.
Heath
July 28th, 2009
6:59 pm
I’ve done a lot of traveling in the past for work…Eastern European women are quite under-rated. Places like Romania and Hungary have some hidden gems for sure.
curtis jones
July 28th, 2009
7:00 pm
My crystal ball tells me there WILL be a Braves trade in the next couple days. Not major, not minor. I’m seeing Kelly Johnson, maybe a pitcher too, but not sure who we’ll get, or who we’re trading with.
I think it will happen, because the writers and others have been lulled to sleep by Wren & Cox, who are saying nothing’s happening. That’s usually when they pull the trigger.
MiltonDawg
July 28th, 2009
7:00 pm
Heath- ever visited Amsterdam?
Heath
July 28th, 2009
7:01 pm
VJ -
All the props go to OptimisticInTexas, he was like a good wing man. He set ‘em up, and I knocked ‘em down.
gd from nz
July 28th, 2009
7:01 pm
Paul Lentz, don’t always agree with what you say, however 100% agree with you about Tim Hudson. Not sure what the Braves will do longer term, clearly you can’t have 6 top calibre starters but usually if you do a solution to that presents itseld with injury, etc.
But shorter term, I don’t think you’d really want to mess with a successful formula – I’m talking about the starters – so I wouldn’t try to fix something that ain’t broke.
But using Tim H as a short reliever surely makes sense and effectively means you don’t have to part company with anything of value to get another arm. Using him in the late innings helps share the load and I think with his makeup he would thrive in this type of role. We don’t need a long man as this implies there will be blow out losses and that is something I’m sure management aren’t planning for at this stage.
As for next year with the starters, that will be an interesting problem for the powers that be to work through
Kenshin Kawakami
July 28th, 2009
7:01 pm
I going to punk Josh Johnson tomorrow night….. you wait and you see how dominate I be against that 6′7″ pile of dog poo….. hahahahaha! Can I get a wat wat! HAHAHAHAHA….. I LOVE AMERICA!!
Heath
July 28th, 2009
7:01 pm
MiltonDawg -
I have been all over Holland.
Eric from MO
July 28th, 2009
7:02 pm
No offense but Whataburger is the most over rated burger chain ever. I had one in California years ago and it was decent but nothing special. Hell give me Wendy’s over it.
Ben Smith
July 28th, 2009
7:03 pm
any chance the braves package KJ and Kotchman together for V. Martinez. ?
I know Wren likes to work under the radar since the summer fiasco.
David O'Brien
July 28th, 2009
7:03 pm
Driver8, weather’s fine here. Almost no clouds right now, at least….
Pfunk, they moved Havana Sandwich shop way outside town. That sux. Loved that place. No, haven’t been to the other one you recommended, but I’ve got to soon. i always forget, the one in Midtown, right?
Heath
July 28th, 2009
7:04 pm
OptimisticInTexas -
South America though has the rest of the world covered, though. Even Mexico….where I have spent a TON of time.
Kenshin Kawakami
July 28th, 2009
7:04 pm
Paul Lentz,
WUT UP PLAYA! You on here a lot my American brotha! You need to chill and eat some chicken fried rice. Step away from blog.
Steve in NC
July 28th, 2009
7:05 pm
TommyP – Rumor about Sox and Cliff Lee is false. Someone hacked the reporter’s twitter account. This is per MLBtradeRumors.
Interested party
July 28th, 2009
7:05 pm
Letsgetrich,
r u serious about the Cohibas? How much do you want for one?
TommyP
July 28th, 2009
7:05 pm
McFann: C’mon. We have an outfield of Garret, McLouth and Diaz/Church. (there’s a hole there, trust me) We have a first baseman that is probably in the bottom 2/3 of the league.
We have holes in the lineup. Trust me.
David O'Brien
July 28th, 2009
7:05 pm
Eric from MO: agreed on What-a-Burger. I mean, come on. Texas has outstanding BBQ, one of the best places, for me, behind N.C. and K.C. I think Gonzo could throw that and some great Tex-Mex (or just pure Mexican) food out there and be done with it.
Mixxo
July 28th, 2009
7:06 pm
October Fever ……I can taste it !
Heath
July 28th, 2009
7:07 pm
Time to PLAY BALL!!!!
MiltonDawg
July 28th, 2009
7:07 pm
Heath- must say dutch and swiss women. czech too. had some of the same experiences
JasonInFL
July 28th, 2009
7:08 pm
game time, baby…let’s get a W!!
JasonInFL
July 28th, 2009
7:08 pm
i say we get 2 in the 1st
MiltonDawg
July 28th, 2009
7:09 pm
Moylan may have a good Roo’ recipe as well
David O'Brien
July 28th, 2009
7:09 pm
Curtis Jones: I’m not saying they won’t do anything. I’m saying I don’t think they’ll do anything significant, as far as taking on big salary or bringing in another starting-type position player. They might add a reliever, but not hearing any hot rumors on that front, either.
Maybe things change in next day or two. It can happen quickly, as it did with the Francoeur/Church thing, which all happened within 48 hours, start to finish. But we’re just telling you what we’re hearing right now, and Braves aren’t in middle of any real hot rumors, and are believed to be in that large group of teams not willing to trade away top prospects or add significant payroll.
PWHjort
July 28th, 2009
7:09 pm
You know what, I love this team. I hope everyone stays healthy. Go Braves.
Heath
July 28th, 2009
7:10 pm
MiltonDawg -
Can’t go wrong with the Czech’s. My G/F is Greek…I like the foreign flavor.
Shamus Thacker
July 28th, 2009
7:11 pm
Just got back; going up to see if I’ve been scandalized, to see how much I’ve shocked and offended, to see if anyone is physically yapping-up delicious pulled vittles because of any of my comments. If so, I’m saddened, ashamed, heartbroken, dismayed, and appalled, at myself, for my little soirees with indiscretion. I’m a jerk, a cad, and and idiot, I take full responsibility.
When I eat baked potatoes now, I don’t cut them at all, I pull them apart once cooled a tad. To spite my family, I pull pretty much everything at this point. Had pulled fried eggs at Waffle Louse this morning. Messy yes, but quite tasty sopped-up with pulled sausage and twice-pulled toast. They threatened to call police when galfriend held cup for attempt at semi-successfully java-pull.
(Only galfriend was ficticious, though rest was pack of lies too)
Well, I might as well go. Those who weren’t offended before my attempt at peace, are sure as Hell offended now…
Sayonara, fer now
TnBrian
July 28th, 2009
7:11 pm
Is the attendance so low there because it’s in a bad area or something? My God, that’s just sad.
Nova Scotia Steve
July 28th, 2009
7:11 pm
Game time baby…Game time baby…
Let’s Go Bravos!!!!
Braveheart
July 28th, 2009
7:11 pm
You know, everyone has their definitions of what constitutes an “ace”, or a “number 2″, or a “number 4″, etc. But they’re not universally defined terms. So they’re not too useful in meaningful discussions.
These are my definitions:
An ace has a sub 3 ERA. A #2 has a 3 to 3.5 ERA. A #3 has a 3.5 to 4 ERA. A #4 has a 4 to 4.5 ERA.
An ace tosses 225 innings. A #2 goes goes 225. A #3 goes 200. A #4 goes 180 innings.
An ace is 6.5 wins above replacement. A #2 is 5 WAR. A #3 is 3.5 WAR. A #4 is 2 WAR.
In this free agency market, an ace makes $23 mil. A #2 makes $19 mil. A #3 makes $15 mil. A #4 makes $11 mil.
Eric from MO
July 28th, 2009
7:11 pm
TommyP CK is slightly above average offensively and a top 3 defensively. So he is above average. GA is doing well. He was hurt early and late to camp. McLouth is a good outfielder and Diaz/Church is a really good platoon. Diaz is playing great. We have the 2nd best offense this month. We have a top 5 3rd baseman and shortstop. Prado has been great. McCann is one of the best two catchers in baseball, Mauer the other one. You will not have all stars at every position. We have a great lineup, and it is the 2nd best NL lineup in the past month, only better one is a team who ballpark is smaller than my high school baseball field.
Driver8
July 28th, 2009
7:12 pm
DOB how many “Hundreds” are in the stadium tonight? It looks like a typical Marlin game where its a few family members and media!
MiltonDawg
July 28th, 2009
7:12 pm
Heath- your’s Greek? Damn, mine is just from Syracuse (NY)..haha
VaBraveFan
July 28th, 2009
7:12 pm
The team needs a true cleanup hitter thats plays in either LF,RF,1B thats capable of hitting 30+ homers and 100+ rbi. I love McCann but he is no cleanup hitter. And he definitly doesnt protect Chipper who is near the top in walks in the League.
MiltonDawg
July 28th, 2009
7:13 pm
way to start it off Nate!!
Driver8
July 28th, 2009
7:14 pm
Or as Skip Carey used to say they all just showed up as empty seats.
Eric from MO
July 28th, 2009
7:15 pm
TnBrian actually it is in a really bad area. Over an hour from Miami and another city(cant remember which one.lol). It was built for the Dolphins and the commute isnt bad for football because there is only 8 games but baseball fans arent going to make that commute for 81 games.
Danno121
July 28th, 2009
7:15 pm
Give me a break O’lyin.” The braves have always been good at beating up on grease. Put them up against legitimate competition and they’ll fold like a wet dishrag. They will finish high enough to real in suckers like you who think they are a player or 2 apart from being competitive. The braves are a player or two apart from being meaningless!
Jeff321
July 28th, 2009
7:15 pm
Chipper with a typical roller to second!
Heath
July 28th, 2009
7:15 pm
MiltonDawg -
1/2 Greek, 1/2 Itallion.
Hey….as long as your happy.
Nova Scotia Steve
July 28th, 2009
7:15 pm
Bobby Cox has a catch’s mit on…I’m a little nervous…
JasonInFL
July 28th, 2009
7:15 pm
or not…did chip swing at the first pitch again?