Lowe reaches another low vs. NY
New York -- So what did we learn last night? Well, we learned that when Bobby Cox thinks a pitcher can get an inning-ending double-play grounder, he will wait … and wait … and wait a little longer for said pitcher to get that grounder.
We learned that the bubble tea is particularly good at one of the many little late-night joints near my hotel in the Chinatown section of beautiful downtown Flushing, N.Y.
(Before you ask why I’m here: Series is three night games, so it wasn’t even worth staying in Manhattan and schlepping back and forth on the subway in heat-advistory weather, not without even one day game to make a night on the town possible. So it’s Flushing, and a very low hotel rate, and Citi Field literally within view from my window. And not much else.)
(Oh, some of you might also be asking, what is bubble tea? Google it. Don’t have enough time to write a good explanation. But it’s good.)
Braves need Jurrjens to pitch a whole lot better tonight than Lowe did last night
We learned that when Martin Prado, Yunel Escobar, Chipper Jones and Brian McCann aren’t doing much, neither is this offense (but we knew that already, didn’t we?).
And we learned one other thing. Or, rather, I learned it today upon closer inspection. And that is, New York teams can bring out the very worst in Derek Lowe, at least during regular-season games.
Get this: After Lowe gave up a career-high eight runs in the excruciating fourth inning of the Mets’ 9-4 win last night (he was finally pulled with two outs after the ninth hit of the inning), it made it the fourth time since the 2007 All-Star break that Lowe has given up at least 10 hits and eight runs while failing to make it out of the fourth inning of a starter.
Three of those starts were against New York teams, including the June 25 game this season against the Yankees when he allowed 11 hits and eight runs (six earned) while recording only nine outs.
In the other three of the four such starts since the ‘07 All-Star break, Lowe allowed eight earned runs. The first of the four was his second start after that break, when he gave up 10 hits and nine runs (eight earned) against the Mets.
Such spectacular less-than-four-innings failure occurred again on Aug. 6, 2008, when Lowe gave up 13 hits and eight earned runs, including two homers, in 3-1/3 innings of a loss at St. Louis.
Eleven days before the Yankee debacle this season, he had an even worse start at Baltimore when he was charged with eight hits and seven runs (all earned) in 2-1/3 innings), throwing 80 pitches to get five outs. But as far as double-digit hits and eight runs in under four innings, it’s been four times since the 2007 break, and three have come against New York teams.
So it’s probably not surprising that two of his worst four ERAs against teams have been against the Mets (career-worst 7.89 ERA in 11 games including five starts) and Yankees (6.41 in 40 games including 16 starts).
His worst record (1-6) is against the Cardinals, against whom he has a 6.69 ERA in seven games, all starts. Dude has given up 62 hits (seven homers) in 37-2/3 innings against the Cardinals. Something tells me if the Braves were to ever try to trade his contract, the Cubs wouldn’t be calling.
By the way, since the 2007 All-Star break, Lowe has a 30-25 record and 4.00 ERA in 74 games (73 starts), with a .266 opponents’ average, 281 strikeouts and 115 walks in 437 innings. His teams (Dodgers and Braves) are 40-34 in those games.
Is he a bonafide ace? No. He’s a durable guy who you can count on to make every start and give you a lot of innings, and when his sinkerball is on he can shut a team down. But last night’s game served as a bit of a reminder that there’s three years and $45 mill remaining on Lowe’s contract after this season.
And a reminder that when you’re not a strikeout pitcher, it’s tough to stop the bleeding sometimes. Particularly if you’re left in to get that elusive groundball out even as things — meaning the game — are caving around you.
One more stat, from Elias: The nine hits allowed by Lowe in the fourth were the most off any pitcher in one innings in more than two years, since the White Sox got nine hits against Roger Clemens of the Yankees on Aug. 2, 2007. The Yankees came back win that game.
And in case you missed it last night, Gary Sheffield greeted Kris Medlen with a double as soon as Lowe was pulled. That was Sheff’s second double of the inning and the franchise-record 10th hit in the inning for the Mets, who, it should be noted, played without the Carloses (Beltran and Delgado), David Wright, Jose Reyes and Alex Cora, all on the DL.
McCann's among several struggling Braves hitters
♣ Offense MIA: After hitting .295 with 12 homers and a 6.5-runs-per-game average during a 7-1 tear through Aug. 12, the Braves have hit just .212 while going 2-3 in their past five games. They’ve only scored 20 runs in that five-game stretch, and nine of those were scored against Arizona on Monday.
The Braves have had eight hits or fewer in six consecutive games, after totaling 10 or more hits in six of the previous seven games.
It’s easier to point out which Braves hitters are not struggling than to point out the many who are.
• Adam LaRoche has hit .367 (18-for-49) with five homers, 11 RBI, 12 walks and a .484 OBP and .694 slugging percentage in 15 games since being traded to the Braves, including 7-for-17 with four homers and seven RBI in his past six games.
• Matt Diaz is 13-for-37 (.351) with four homers and nine RBI in his past 13 games.
But after that, it’s slim pickings for this offense.
Among the high-profile guys who’ve slumped lately:
• Yunel Escobar is 16-for-67 (.239) with two doubles, three RBI and a .269 slugging percentage in his past 19 games, after hitting .455 with three doubles, four homers, 13 RBI and a .909 slugging percentage in his previous nine games (through July 24).
• Brian McCann is just 9-for-52 (.173) with one homer, six RBI and a .567 OPS in his past 15 games, and has as many errors (three) as RBI in his past seven games.
• Chipper Jones is 5-for-21 with no extra-base hits and two RBI in his past six games, including 0-for-10 with one walk and five strikeouts in his past three.
• Martin Prado only has five plate appearances (0-for-4, one walk) in the past four days because of mysterious headaches, and he was to fly back to Atlanta today for more tests to try to get to the bottom of the situation. The Braves might have to DL their valuable, versatile sparkplug of a player, but want to avoid it if at all possible, if he’s going to be able to play in the next few days. Brooks Conrad is a short flight away in Norfolk, Va., if they need him.
OK, that’s it. Gotta get to the ballpark. Braves need another winning streak soon, folks, are they could, figuratively speaking, be stuck in Lodi again.
“LODI” by Creedence Clearwater Revival (John Fogerty)
Just about a year ago, I set out on the road,
Seekin’ my fame and fortune, lookin’ for a pot of gold.
Things got bad, and things got worse, I guess you will know the tune.
Oh Lord, stuck in Lodi again.
Rode in on the Greyhound; I’ll be walkin’ out if I go.
I was just passin’ through, must be seven months or more.
Ran out of time and money, looks like they took my friends.
Oh Lord, I’m stuck in Lodi again.
The man from the magazine said I was on my way.
Somewhere I lost connections, ran out of songs to play.
I came into town, a one night stand, looks like my plans fell through
Oh Lord, stuck in Lodi again.
Mmmm…
If I only had a dollar, for ev’ry song I’ve sung.
And ev’ry time I’ve had to play while people sat there drunk.
You know, I’d catch the next train back to where I live.
Oh Lord, I’m stuck in Lodi again.
Oh Lord, I’m stuck in Lodi again.
1,550 comments Add your comment
Rob from SC
August 19th, 2009
3:19 pm
Lets go Jurrjens
MFin04
August 19th, 2009
3:20 pm
Definitely thought 4 runs was easily going to be enough to win the game last night, that being said, we need the big bats in our lineup to step up. Come on Chipper, Brian, and Esco!!!
Thrillhouse44
August 19th, 2009
3:21 pm
I hope JJJ’s back is strong tonight.
Thrillhouse44
August 19th, 2009
3:22 pm
Do the Braves still win if Francoeur wears his turkey underwear? Would he help some brothers out?
NorCal
August 19th, 2009
3:23 pm
Love that song, Centerfield too. Used to work in the same office as John’s brother Jim—could not be more different people as far as I could tell.
flange1
August 19th, 2009
3:23 pm
Thanks for the new blog DOB! Bubble tea is great!
dwaynerice
August 19th, 2009
3:23 pm
seventh? I think w/a depleted bench, Bobby was trying to get Lowe thru the inning, as he was batting leadoff, and it blew up and…on well
flange1
August 19th, 2009
3:24 pm
NorCal,
What was Jim like?
Daslied
August 19th, 2009
3:24 pm
dcp (from the last blog) – I wasn’t talking about team performance. I was somewhat defending Lowe’s salary and the overall cost vs. performance of the rotation. Yep, a little more consistency on the offensive side would be awesome…
Piedmont Blues (ex-BFIR)
August 19th, 2009
3:25 pm
lexbrave (from last blog),
I read somewhere today that the Cards want Smoltz in the rotation. Guess we’ll find out.
McFann Ô
August 19th, 2009
3:25 pm
Thanks for the new Blog, Chief!
Brian McCann…has as many errors (three) as RBI in his past seven games.
Come on, BMac! Big night tonight, maybe??
Anders
August 19th, 2009
3:25 pm
Thrillhouse- Reportedly the turkey underwear doesn’t fit Frenchy anymore as he grew some you know whats upon his arrival to NY.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
3:26 pm
XM just finished a great interview with Mike Brito, the man who wore the white brimmed hat and sat in Dodger Stadium recording pitchs with the radar gun. Guy was a real hoot!
"You all are Cox apologists"
August 19th, 2009
3:27 pm
LAME IN UTAH,
Looser is actually spelled LOSER. Not only are you LAME but a bad speller too!!!!!!!!!!!
Hillbilly
August 19th, 2009
3:28 pm
Lord help us if Smoltz succeeds in St. Louis. These insufferable Cardinal fans will have Dave Duncan’s face carved into Mt. Rushmore if it happens. You folks think these Mets Trolls are annoying? This is child’s play. Cardinal fans here in the central U.S. are pompous, self-righteous A-holes of the first degree. He’s a good pitching coach, but they think Dave Duncan hung the moon, and Albert Pujols held him up on his shoulders so he could do it. David Wright? PFFFFT!
Steve from OH
August 19th, 2009
3:28 pm
“You are all Cox apologists” has got to be Paul Lentz. I don’t know what gives it away more…the bad quotation marks, the not-even-vaguely-insulting names, or the all caps.
nemov
August 19th, 2009
3:29 pm
Losing McClouth and Prado for any number of days kills our moderately average offense. It’s too bad we catch put Cox on the DL after last night.
Jake W.
August 19th, 2009
3:29 pm
Yeah, need JJ to step up tonight. Can’t have a Lowe like performance like last night but hey JJ can pitch a shutout and if our biggest offensive players continue to be m.i.a. then doesn’t really matter much. Lowe sucked but the fact that we didn’t get hardly any production out of three of our biggest bats in that lineup hurt too. Need more from those guys, need to step it up.
NorCal
August 19th, 2009
3:29 pm
flange1,
He was a very fussy, sterotypical accountant type. Nice guy though, and he had some good stories about John and how he drove his parents crazy playing his band in the garage. Big Giants fan
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
3:29 pm
Norcal
Word is that John F is/was a real jerk. Story was that his brother Tom passed away without him going to patch things up with him?
Don’t know if that is true, but I read it somewhere. (if it was on the internet, it has to be true. Al Gore wouldn’t put things out there that aren’t true would he?)
Anders
August 19th, 2009
3:30 pm
Hillbilly- To be fair, Duncan sure has had some real good reclamation projects over the years.
Threadkiller
August 19th, 2009
3:30 pm
Smoltz should do much better in the NL
Shamus Thacker
August 19th, 2009
3:31 pm
I didn’t know Don Imus played with CCR.
"You all are Cox apologists"
August 19th, 2009
3:32 pm
DOB must even be sick of Bobby Cox after last night. How do you leave a guy in with a hand blister who’s getting shelled? There is a such thing as being too patient. The Braves lost last night due to our manager’s lack of urgency. Just listen at his statements after a loss, “he was dealing, we just had a bad fourth”. I am SICK of this guy and his underachieving teams!!!! Wren I know you will make us all proud by encouraging Bobby NOT to return. If he is fired, expect MARTIAL LAW in Georgia.
Thrillhouse44
August 19th, 2009
3:32 pm
Anders, you’re pretty funny when you’re in a good mood. Unfortunately, your mood tends to improve as mine dwindles.
Anders
August 19th, 2009
3:33 pm
Thrillhouse – It’s kind of like we’re married.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
3:33 pm
Steve
And to top that off, he is a “looser” as he didn’t pick up on the on purpose misspelling of loser, that never really quite became as popular as “your and idiot”.
I put that in there to see if I would get a reaction from you, dipstick!
Shamus Thacker
August 19th, 2009
3:34 pm
Can’t you taste remnants from the bong in that bubble tea?
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
3:35 pm
pushing your. buttons…..
Efrim
August 19th, 2009
3:35 pm
What player has been more valuable to his winning team every year for over the last decade than Mariano Rivera?
Derek Jeter?
lexbrave
August 19th, 2009
3:36 pm
piedmont, i was just going off what espn radio said.. personally i think the cards are stupid if they put john anywhere but the pen.
knowing his ego, the only way he would sign is if they guaranteed him a starting job.
NorCal
August 19th, 2009
3:36 pm
Wayne,
Could be true. I have not had contact with Jim for a few years. He did used to talk about John’s legal issues with his band and record label but I don’t remember the details or much about Tom. He was a little envious of the other brothers’ fame and fortune, he being an accountant tied to a desk and salary and all.
Anders
August 19th, 2009
3:36 pm
Nothing like a 90+ degree humid day kicking around Flushing New York. You know who should be in fine spirits when he arrives to the old blog.
You guys might want to chip in and get him a room in NYC and car service back and forth to the game. Money well spent.
Paul Lentz
August 19th, 2009
3:36 pm
Fred……………I agree with your 3:11pm posting. It’s nice to see SOMEONE on this blog who has the ability to see that on a night like last night………..THAT THE OFFENSE SHOULD HAVE STEPPED IT UP WHEN THEY SAW THAT DEREK LOWE DIDNT HAVE IT………..especially against a BUM like Oliver Perez and that horrific Mets bullpen.
Paul Lentz
August 19th, 2009
3:37 pm
AtlJersey Kid……………12:43am posting is missing the point. I NEVER SAID that Derek Lowe deserved a pass for last night’s performance. I SAID that I just dont understand why many on here VILIFIED Lowe for last night…………..when the offense QUIT after 3 innings?
If it was Johan Santana pitching last night, then 4 runs should have been considered a lot, given how tough a pitcher he is. However it was OLIVER FREAKING PEREZ pitching last night, along with 4 innings of that TERRIBLE METS BULLPEN. I know that Derek Lowe didnt have it last night. I’m not excusing his performance in any way.
However, there have been PLENTY of nights this year where the starting pitching was STELLAR yet received little run support. My question tonight was “On a night like tonight when the starting pitching had rough night……….What is wrong with asking the offense to KICK IT UP ANOTHER GEAR AGAINST TERRIBLE PITCHING and scoring some runs in the last 6 innings of the game”?
Good baseball teams will “pick each other up”. I’m sorry, but on a night like last night, 4 runs was PATHETIC. That’s right……..it was PATHETIC. When our offense saw that Lowe was struggling and didnt have it, they should have turned up the intensity and played with a SENSE OF URGENCY. Again, there were many a night when the starting pitching knew that they had to “kick it up a notch and hold the opponent down because the offense didnt have it that night”. We have won games where the offense didnt give us jack. Yet you think it is unfair to ask the offense to return the favor every once in a while?
I understand what the Braves record is when they score 4 or more runs in a game. However, on some nights, 4 runs simply isnt going to cut it.
During the 1993 World Series, do you think that the Blue Jays would have won the World Series if they took the “we have good pitching, so all we have to do is score 4 runs and we are set” attitude? Blue Jays pitching was ROCKED that series (and they had a really good pitching staff leading up to that World Series). However, the Blue Jays offense knew if they was going to win the World Series……..that they would have to pick up the starting pitching and PUT THE HURTING ON THE PHILLIES PITCHING STAFF.
Yet you think that an early 4-0 lead after 3 innings means that the offense can “take the rest of the night off” because they did “its job”? You, my friend, are the one who cant reason
"You all are Cox apologists"
August 19th, 2009
3:37 pm
NO, I am not Paul Lentz. Plus, I don’t mean to insult anyone but I will call out someone who thinks they’re being a wise-guy. Cox is a great players managers but he sucks at in-game-management. Cox would make a good bench coach but he should relinquish the manager’s spot to someone who isn’t loyal to a fault.
PWHjort
August 19th, 2009
3:37 pm
From the Associated Press: Derek Lowe Adds A New Pitch To His Arsenal
After throwing seven straight quality starts in a span that saw him go 4-0 with a 2.91 ERA, Derek Lowe expanded his arsenal by adding a batting-practice fastball to go along with his sinker, curveball, and change-up.
“It’s really going to help me take it to the next level.” Lowe said in a press conference before his start Tuesday night. “I’ve been working on the pitch for awhile with Roger [McDowell, Braves' Pitching Coach]. I was able to consistently throw it letter-high over the heart of the plate with no movement, but Roger really helped me tone it down to about 81 MPH, just like a batting practice fastball should be.”
Lowe’s new pitch was on display Tuesday night as he was touched up for eleven hits in just 3 and 2/3 innings. Most of the damage came in the 4th when Lowe broke out the new weapon. The Mets totaled 8 runs on 10 hits–9 off of Lowe’s new BP Fastball, as he calls it.
“It was perfect, really” former Atlanta Braves outfielder Jeff Francoeur said. “He was doing a great job of getting the ball over the plate, it was easy to see, and it was coming in at the perfect speed. I don’t think anyone had trouble getting around on it or seeing it. It was just like taking live BP.”
Lowe was just happy he was able to do his job, even if he was charged with the loss.
“I’ve got my batting practice fastball now, I really think it’s a pitch I’ll be able to utilize over the next 4 years–the life of my contract. The Braves brought me in to give them quality innings for the next 4 years and I think this batting practice fastball is going to help me accomplish that.” Lowe continues, “There will be plenty more opportunities to throw batting practice in the future, on and off the field. I now know what I’ve got to do. Zero in on the heart of the plate, slow it down, and keep it straight as an arrow.”
Lowe, who signed the largest free agent contract in Atlanta Braves club history this past off-season–$60 million over 4 years–is prepared to use the BP Fastball in his next start against the Marlins on August 23.
“The Marlins are a young, aggressive team”, said Lowe. “They’ll really thrive off of the BP fastball. Just serve it up and let their unrefined tools do the work.”
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
3:38 pm
Can somebody give us “un-worldly” types an explanation of what bubble tea is?
bravesgrl4life
August 19th, 2009
3:38 pm
Today is a new day. I’m going to hope for the best tonight and hope I get to actually watch
Anders
August 19th, 2009
3:39 pm
Derek Jeter? (Efrim)
I disagree. But that’s a subjective argument for sure. Anyone else?
Shamus Thacker
August 19th, 2009
3:39 pm
lexbrave: piedmont, i was just going off what espn radio said.. personally i think the cards are stupid if they put john anywhere but the pen.
You’re right, a playpen is the best place for an over-sized infant…
flange1
August 19th, 2009
3:40 pm
Wayne,
Way more to the Fogerty story with his brother Tom died! I have met John, he is a bit different, but not bad, really kind of fussy like an accountant (his brother?)!
There was bad blood between the owner of Fantasy Records (Saul Zaentz) and John about the horrible contract that Creedence signed. The other members of Creedence (including John’s brother Tom) sided against John in the legal and verbal battles. John HATED Zaentz with a passion (if you have the sola album called Centerfield, listen to the song Vaentz can’t dance)
The brothers were estranged for a few years, when Tom was in the hospital the final time, John went to see him, all was good for a few minutes, then Tom said Saul Zaentz is my best friend in the world.
John walked out, and Tom died the next day….
John also refused to play with the other 2 surviving members of Creedence when they were elected to the Rock and Roll HOF.
More useless information for the blog world!
Steve from OH
August 19th, 2009
3:41 pm
Cox is a great players managers but he sucks at in-game-management.
He’s not an outstanding in-game manager, I agree, but you’d prefer Dusty Baker or Jerry Manuel managing your club instead? Joe Girardi? Lou Piniella? C’mon, man.
Hillbilly
August 19th, 2009
3:41 pm
Anders, I’ll be the first to admit that, but until you’ve lived in this sea of red that extends from Illinois all the way down here to south Arkansas, you can’t understand how tiresome it gets to have his reclamation projects and the Cardinals’ 10 World Series titles crammed down your throat every day for your entire life.
EDIT: I take that back. I’m sure you do understand, being a Mets fan and having to deal with Yankee history on a daily basis. Doesn’t that crap get old?
Paul Lentz
August 19th, 2009
3:42 pm
MFin04………….After 3 innings last night, I thought the same thing that you stated in your 3:20pm posting.
However, when it became apparent that 4 runs wasnt going to be enough, we STILL had 5 more innings to score at least 4 more runs against the terrible Mets pitching staff.
Again, if the Braves are indeed a play-off caliber team, then asking the offense to PICK UP the pitching staff on an off night…….IS NOT TOO MUCH TO ASK, especially against this Mets pitching staff.
Nova Scotia Steve
August 19th, 2009
3:42 pm
Today is a new day…All is not lost…
But caution…we can’t fall 5 or 6 games back of the wild card….Hence yes we need another 4 or 5 game winning streak.
We can beat Santana…but we have to win today and then let’s go from there…
munz
August 19th, 2009
3:42 pm
DOB, DOB, DOB —
You may have already tuned in to this band, but if not, give American Aquarium a listen … http://www.myspace.com/americanaquarium … really good stuff if you like Ryan Bingham, Jason Isbell and the like
Anders
August 19th, 2009
3:43 pm
Must resist responding to Lentz posts.Must resist responding to Lentz posts.Must resist responding to Lentz posts.Must resist responding to Lentz posts.Must resist responding to Lentz posts.Must resist responding to Lentz posts.Must resist responding to Lentz posts.Must resist responding to Lentz posts.Must resist responding to Lentz posts.Must resist responding to Lentz posts.
bruce
August 19th, 2009
3:43 pm
ok, I am taking the blame… I was there last night and I was there for the Sunday in Baltimore… yikes
MFin04
August 19th, 2009
3:43 pm
Derek Jeter? Lol, he’s just a TAD overrated.
Jim
August 19th, 2009
3:44 pm
Losing McClouth and Prado during this stretch hurts the offese, but it hurts the defense almost as much. Church is no a CF. Almost any other CF in the NL would have caught that bloop hit in the middle of the nightmare 4th last night. With Church flanked by Diaz and Anderson for the next two weeks, we have a very weak outfield defense. Last night’s game showed that Infante is not an upgrade over KJ at 2B. We will miss Prado’s defense for as long as he is out. (He is not gold glove, but is an upgrade over Infante and KJ). We also miss the flexibility that Prado provides. Chipper is obviously hurting from the oblique strain and is not helping the team by playing and batting in the middle of the order right now. Prado at 3B and KJ/Infante at 2B might have been able to give us better lineup than an injured Chipper. On the positive side, McCann had three good ABs last night.
richbrave
August 19th, 2009
3:44 pm
IF we take one of three from the MELTS, we can still win 90 games. NOT winning this and future series against the N.Y.r’s, FISH and FILTHIES will necessitate that we sweep the NATS, and the rest of the NL a bunch. This is quite problematic. Things don’t look too good for our being the WC in 2009. A big bat corner fielder next year will probably result in a pay-off for JOHN MALONE’s investment. The “roll” will escalate by normal means as well as the addition of 10-15 million or so for a big bopper. Where are we now payroll wise – 95 MILL.? As I said in the 2007 off-season, 110-120 million more or less gets you to the postseason dance. “Let’s roll GRIGSY. The sooner we’re out of this shyt-hole the better.” – MATEWAN 1980.
TnBrian
August 19th, 2009
3:44 pm
Anders is around more than usual since late last night. Can’t imagine why…well, his team did light up a sinkerballer who I’ll swear by this that that blister screwed his grip up, but it has to make Anders and Stenchy feel like they’re on top of the world. Who cares, lets see how that AAA lineup does going against a pitcher who doesn’t have a blister and is hitting corners and changing speeds, Anders.
NorCal
August 19th, 2009
3:44 pm
flange1,
Interesting story. Jim sided with John as far as I can remember but did not talk about it all that much. Too busy with those fascinating paper spreadsheets (pre EXCEL).
Anders
August 19th, 2009
3:45 pm
Hillbilly -Same church, different pew for sure.
METSFAN4LIFE
August 19th, 2009
3:45 pm
lowe sucks, prado’s weak
Efrim
August 19th, 2009
3:46 pm
I disagree. But that’s a subjective argument for sure. Anyone else?
Well, he plays a bit more than Mariano, right? He’s in the game even when they are down. When they are tied. Heck, he appears in the game before the eighth inning.
bruce
August 19th, 2009
3:46 pm
ok I will take the blame… I was there last night and I was at Lowe’s Sunday game in Baltimore… yikes
PWHjort
August 19th, 2009
3:46 pm
Jim,
I don’t think losing McLouth and Prado is a downgrade defensively. I strongly believe KJ is a better defender than Prado at 2B and Church is probably just as good in Center as McLouth. Church has already made a few nice plays there.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
3:47 pm
Cox Apo
Hey, if your going to speak without yelling, and be reasonable, then I will talk with you. And YES, I was being a smart alec about all your gazillion posts saying the same damned things every time. I stand behind that.
But then, when you come after an entire state because I ticked you off, you showed me that you have very little self control.
If you go back, I don’t think I called you anything, short of just telling you that after a few times, nobody was going to read your crap.
You actually made a positive statement about Bobby being great with players. THAT, my friend, is what will get him to the Hall. He has NEVER been a great tactician. Neither is Joe Torre and a myriad of other managers. They are good at times, but not great.
When Bobby makes a good move, nobody says anything about it, because it is expected. When he makes a blunder, all hell breaks loose. You can’t have it both ways. If your going to rip him for his screw ups, then you have to note ALL his good moves too.
He pulls some real head scratchers for sure, but it scares the heck out of me to think what will happen when he leaves.
So, why don’t you go and apologize to the state of Utah and the west in general, and then maybe we can have a conversation. If you do, I promise I won’t tell you to kiss my arse again!
Deal?
"You all are Cox apologists"
August 19th, 2009
3:47 pm
Top 5 things a good tactical manager would have done with the Braves:
1. Moylan wouldn’t be leading MLB in appearances. (Tommy John Surgery)
2. Conrad would have stayed on the team over NOrton (was hitting .340)
3. Corkey Miller would have stayed driving trucks, plumbing, (last year)
4. Chipper’s mysterious injuries wouldn’t be tolerated.
5. This team would be playoff bound.
TnBrian
August 19th, 2009
3:47 pm
Boy, Anders is going crazy on the blog today, huh? Can’t imagine why…well, his team did light up a sinkerballer who I’ll swear that the blister screwed up his grip, but Anders and Stenchy must feel like they’re on top of the world right now. Lets see how that AAA lineup does going against a pitcher that doesn’t have a blister, is hitting the corners, and changing speeds, Anders.
TnBrian
August 19th, 2009
3:48 pm
Oh now my other post shows up when I sumbit the other one! SOB! Oh well, I meant it Anders, so read both and cry for me.
PWHjort
August 19th, 2009
3:49 pm
Cole Rohrbough last 2 starts: 11.0 IP, 8 H, 4 BB, 2 R, 7 K.
Good to see I guess.
bravesgrl4life
August 19th, 2009
3:49 pm
Bruce, stay away, please, please, please!!!
Shaun
August 19th, 2009
3:49 pm
Is he a bonafide ace? No. He’s a durable guy who you can count on to make every start and give you a lot of innings, and when his sinkerball is on he can shut a team down. But last night’s game served as a bit of a reminder that there’s three years and $45 mill remaining on Lowe’s contract after this season.
And a reminder that when you’re not a strikeout pitcher, it’s tough to stop the bleeding sometimes. Particularly if you’re left in to get that elusive groundball out even as things — meaning the game — are caving around you.
I think DOB hit the nail on the head here. With a non-strikeout pitcher, we should expect teams to string together hits every now and then against him.
Derek Lowe is not a great pitcher. This should come as a shock to no one…not even Frank Wren. But Wren didn’t sign Lowe to a 4-year, $60 million deal to be a great pitcher. He signed him to be a guy to give the Braves 200+ average-to-decent innings over 4 seasons.
FanGraphs.com lists what a player would receive on the open market based on his performance.
Derek Lowe has outperformed his actual salary the last three seasons. This season he’s been worth $12.5 million, which is somewhat close to his current average annual salary of $15 million a season.
Clearly Lowe’s value lies in the fact that he’s not likely to be below average in a season and he’s going to give the Braves 200+ innings. That’s not as good as a Sabathia or a Santana, but a) those players are obviously much more expensive and b) Tommy Hanson could be one of the 15 best pitchers in the NL within the next four years at millions less than the going rate for one of the 15 best. All things considered, the Braves are in fine shape. Anyone who expected Lowe to be or thinks Lowe should be a Cy Young contender simply because of his 4-year, $60 million contract needs to do their research.
dcp
August 19th, 2009
3:49 pm
Got you Daslied…thanks for the clarity from yesterday’s blog. They have to win tonight. Cannot go into tomorrow facing Santana and needing to salvage one game from a depleted Mets team. We will see. This weekend will be a huge test with FL getting 10+ hits per game for two weeks now – something will give there and let’s hope it is not the Braves’ pitching.
lexbrave
August 19th, 2009
3:49 pm
bubble tea originally got its name i think because it was shaken up to well create bubbles…now i think most places use a premixed powder and the only bubbles you get are in the form of some sort of round gooey gellatin balls in the bottom of the drink.
quite tasty depending on the flavor, but really sweet… i try to avoid sugary drinks so i rarely indulge in it.
forget the curveball, Ricky
August 19th, 2009
3:49 pm
with that game last night i have come to understand that no matter how terrible a team that the opposition runs onto the field, bobby will find a way to f it up
Anders
August 19th, 2009
3:49 pm
Efrim- So why do closers make more than middle inning relief guys who pitch more etc…?
Come on, you know better.
lexbrave
August 19th, 2009
3:51 pm
i just googled it and the gellatin like balls in bubble tea are actually tapioca..wierd.
Steve from OH
August 19th, 2009
3:51 pm
PWH–I agree that Kelly is a better defender than Prado (well, at least way better than Omar), but I’d take McLouth over Church. I think UZR and +/- are a little unkind to him. That said he’s not a gold glover.
Shamus Thacker
August 19th, 2009
3:51 pm
The argument that there’s nobody competent enough to replace Bobby is pretty lame. If Bobby weren’t Bobby, and not already managing the Braves, he wouldn’t be sufficiently competent to replace his incompetent self.
That makes absolutely no sense, but I’m going with it~!
Anders
August 19th, 2009
3:52 pm
Tnbrian – You forgot to close with wah,wah – stomp, stomp.
BTW- I was here all day yesterday and heard from many that I better come back after the slaughter. I didn’t realize you didn’t mean any slaughter.{:
PWHjort
August 19th, 2009
3:54 pm
I don’t know. Church has been good in center for us. McLouth’s been good too, I guess. I don’t think there’s much of a difference is my point.
CLE
August 19th, 2009
3:54 pm
PWHjort–You could use an AP Stylebook, but overall I’d say your story at 3:37 is pretty good!
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
3:54 pm
flange1
Thanks for the useless info. That makes sense to me, I’m buying it.
"You all are Cox apologists"
August 19th, 2009
3:55 pm
I would take Lou Pinella in a HEARTBEAT over Bobby Cox. The thing is, his fiery personality is only good for 3 years.
Top 10 (ACTIVE) managers I would take over Cox TODAY:
1. Jim Leyland
2. Tony Larussa
3. Joe Torre
4. Terry Francona
5. Joe Girardi
6. Ron Gardenhire
7. Mike Scioscia
8. Bruce Bochy
9. Charlie Manuel
10. Ozzie Guillen
Every manager I listed has either beaten Cox in a playoff matchup, won more games, or is flat out a better manager. Argue with me??????????
Thrillhouse44
August 19th, 2009
3:56 pm
Shamus, Ted Turner would understand.
Efrim
August 19th, 2009
3:58 pm
Efrim- So why do closers make more than middle inning relief guys who pitch more etc…?
Then why do the best position players make more than the best closer? Why do pitchers like A.J. Burnett get paid more than Mariano Rivera, when they play on the same team?
Steve from OH
August 19th, 2009
3:58 pm
Ok, first off, Torre and Cox are pretty much the same manager.
Secondly–Ozzie Guillen? WTF? Seriously? I’d hire Paul Lentz to manage the club before I’d hire Guillen.
No to Girardi for sure. Don’t know enough about Gardenhire or Boachy to comment. Not really a huge fan of Scioscia (I know I’ll get some heat for that, but you do like plate discipline, right?).
Thrillhouse44
August 19th, 2009
3:59 pm
“You all are Cox apologists”, not a single one of them are likely to come to ATL to manage. What available manager would you consider?
brent a.
August 19th, 2009
3:59 pm
One of the things that I think is interesting about the Braves manager situation, is that after two decades with Bobby Cox, we really don’t know what it will be like for the Braves FO to try and fill this position.
Would guys like Torre, LaRussa, Guillen, Gardenhire, Piniella, (etc.) be interested? Which of those would the Braves be interested in?
Would the Braves hire from within? Are the Braves going to try and bridge the gap until Chipper Jones can be the manager?
We’ve seen so little change around here that it’s hard to imagine what the Braves will do.
How many of you had Roger McDowell as Leo Mazzone’s replacement? How many of you were take off-guard by JS’s “retirement”?
The way the Braves operate, I kind of suspect that the FO already knows what it plans to do next in regards to the manager slot. The only time I’ve heard Wren address it was last spring when he said that he didn’t even want to think of having to replace Bobby Cox. I think he meant it, but that doesn’t mean that the organization isn’t making plans.
PWHjort
August 19th, 2009
3:59 pm
I know a lot about Gardy. I like him. The main thing most Twins fans complain about is he always has some very bad middle infielder batting 2nd.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
4:01 pm
Steve
One thing about Prado is it seems that he more regularly makes an eye popping defensive play, but his range is surely lacking.
I have liked what I have seen of McLouth so far, a bit above average I would say. Church has a good rep as an above average defensive OF’er, but he is rarely used in centerfield, so that would go to a lack of range probably? Not too much dropoff from McLouth though, in my opinion.
Infante, when hitting is a good utility infielder. Too many appearances will show his soft underbelly.
TnBrian
August 19th, 2009
4:01 pm
Just to keep putting fuel on last night’s fire… Infante cost Lowe two runs on that grounder that any 2nd baseman should make. It would’ve been 6-4 to end that inning, instead those two extra runs made the hill VERY hard to climb. He does look a little chunkier since coming back and slower with everything– the glove and bat.
brent a.
August 19th, 2009
4:01 pm
I hadn’t even seen “apologist’s” post when I began typing, nor thrillhouse’s response.
In short, we can never be so certain as to who wouldn’t leave their current situation to come to Atlanta. The job has not been open in 20 years!
Bravesfasfaninmetsland
August 19th, 2009
4:02 pm
DOB
Was at the Lowe debacle last night. Tried to find you during batting bractice, had to settle for talking to Kevin Burkart (I was behind the Mets dugout) Staying home tonight less people hate me here when I route out loud for teh Braves
BOBBY'S BELLY
August 19th, 2009
4:03 pm
HAS SCHAFER STARTED TO TAKE CUTS YET AFTER THE REMOVAL OF THE CAST?
PWHjort
August 19th, 2009
4:05 pm
BOBBY’S BELLY,
The CAPS LOCK key is on the left side of your keyboard. Above the shift, below the tab. And no, Schafer hasn’t started taking swings.
David O'Brien
August 19th, 2009
4:05 pm
Nothing on Prado, who only was supposed to arrive in Atlanta at around 2 p.m….
Just for the record, Lowe’s had that blister on his throwing hand for weeks. While going 5-0 in his seven starts. Not in a spot that affects his throwing, or sure didn’t before last night. And if it did last night, then no one mentioned it or even used it as a possible reason for his results…
And I didn’t write anything earlier, but it sure looked like Infante could have made at least one play on one of those balls that got through the right side….
LINEUP (as relayed to me by PR man without writing it down, I’ll correct in a bit if any difference)
1. Infante
2. Anderson
3. Chipper
4. Mac
5. Roch
6. Esco
7. Diaz
8. Church
9. Jurrjens
fleming
August 19th, 2009
4:06 pm
PWHjort – The CAPS LOCK key is on the left side of your keyboard. Above the shift, below the tab.
Not on my keyboard it isn’t. That’s where the Control key lives.
McFann Ô
August 19th, 2009
4:06 pm
Bruce–
Aw! Not your fault!
They oughta put on a better show for you tonight.
McFann Ô
August 19th, 2009
4:08 pm
BL
August 19th, 2009
4:10 pm
- Brian McCann is just 9-for-52 (.173) with one homer, six RBI and a .567 OPS in his past 15 games, and has as many errors (three) as RBI in his past seven games.
OUCH!!!
Nova Scotia Steve
August 19th, 2009
4:11 pm
All-Star Atlanta Braves AJC Blog Starting 9 & Front Office
1. RHR
2. Shamus Thacker
3. Rob from SC
4. David O’Brien
5. McFann – Cause I know she doesn’t like the clean-up spot
6. Tomahawkin
7. Mixxo
8. TnBrian
9. Steve from OH
Manager: Bobby’s Cox
Hitting Coach: Wayne in Utah
Pitching Coach: Paul Lentz
General Manager: Martha Stewart
Head Scout: Carroll Rogers
Nova Scotia Steve
August 19th, 2009
4:11 pm
AndyC
August 19th, 2009
4:11 pm
“You all are Cox apologists”
So you don’t try to insult people, eh? So you weren’t trying to insult anyone when you basically called everyone on the blog a “racist redneck” at 2:33pm yesterday? Link attached below. I don’t know, that sure sounds like an insult to me.
http://blogs.ajc.com/atlanta-braves-blog/2009/08/17/rain-for-a-rain-makeup/comment-page-20/#comments
McFann Ô
August 19th, 2009
4:12 pm
BL–
Yeah, we could go back further than that, but is that really necessary?
Chief’s line there paints a “good” enough picture…
bubble tea fan
August 19th, 2009
4:12 pm
Bubble tea is pretty tasty, once you get used to the idea of tapioca balls in your tea. Also, the tapioca balls are very sticky, and will adhere nicely to skin or clothing when shot out of a straw at unsuspecting targets. Not that I would ever do such a thing.
McFann Ô
August 19th, 2009
4:13 pm
Nova Scotia Steve 5. McFann – Cause I know she doesn’t like the clean-up spot
Thanks, mann.
This may sound like a dumb idea
August 19th, 2009
4:13 pm
But how about giving Chipper Jones the Bonds treatment starting next year..meaning scheduling in a day off every 5th day or so. Maybe thatll help with the injuries and such? Thoughts?
BravesDA
August 19th, 2009
4:14 pm
DOB – have you tried the Taro flavored bubble tea yet?? Trust me – it’s awesome.
Soph
August 19th, 2009
4:14 pm
lol Nova Scotia Steve. Ok, so since Steve from OH is batting 9th, I’m assuming he’s the pitcher. And, since Paul Lentz is the pitching coach, he’ll be working very closely with Steve from OH.
Yikes. :-8
Bubby
August 19th, 2009
4:14 pm
jort, schafer did swing in bp last night and has made the road trip with AAA.
Shaun
August 19th, 2009
4:15 pm
So what did we learn last night? Well, we learned that when Bobby Cox thinks a pitcher can get an inning-ending double-play grounder, he will wait … and wait … and wait a little longer for said pitcher to get that grounder.
Lowe is third on the team with a 56.3 groundball percentage (behind Boone Logan, Peter Moylan and…Luis Valdez?). Lowe is second in the Majors among qualifiers in groundball percentage. In the 4th inning, why wouldn’t you leave in your starter who has been one of the top two groundball pitchers in the majors to try to get a groundball to get out of the inning? I can understand if it’s the 7th or 8th or 9th or maybe even the 6th, but that’s aweful early to go to the ‘pen. I don’t think you can fault Cox. Like DOB said, when you’re dealing with a non-strikeout pitcher who gets a ton of grounders, sometimes it’s risky and sometimes he’s going to reward you with a double play ball.
Anders
August 19th, 2009
4:15 pm
BL- McCann looked like Robert Deniro in Bang The Drum Slowly on that pop up behind the plate last night. Yikes.
He’s gassed imo.Reminds me of many mid August times with Piazza. Too demanding a position to play a lot and be counted on for critical offense.That’s asking an awful lot of a guy.
MFin04
August 19th, 2009
4:16 pm
Loaf batting 2nd, we’re done.
chris from md
August 19th, 2009
4:17 pm
DOB,
Would it be fair to say that Vazquez is pitching the way we anticipated Lowe might and Lowe is pitching like the number three pitcher we thought Vazquez might be?
It seems that our brightest and best performances have come from folks who make the least (Escobar, Hanson, JJ, Prado) while Chipper and Lowe (two of our most high priced guys) have underperformed somewhat.
If Lowe rights himself, do you think Boston or the Yankees would be willing to take on his contract in the offseason?
Thx,
Chris from MD
Nova Scotia Steve
August 19th, 2009
4:18 pm
Awweeee Garret “double play when I bat 2nd” Anderson
brent a.
August 19th, 2009
4:19 pm
perhaps there’s a nice day-spa in flushing where McCann can spend the afternoon tomorrow . . .
Shamus Thacker
August 19th, 2009
4:19 pm
Just look at that lineup. Bobby’s marbles have rolled to parts unknown…
Steve from OH
August 19th, 2009
4:19 pm
According to Beyond the Boxscore, our pitching staff ranks third in MLB in tERA, but 16th in wOBA. Of course, the latter would look better without 3 months’ worth of Francoeur, Schafer and KJ…
This club, as currently comprised, is pretty good folks.
Shaun
August 19th, 2009
4:21 pm
chris from md, is Lowe really pitching much differently than how you thought he’d pitch. Again, the Braves didn’t sign Lowe to be great. They signed him to give them 200+ decent innings.
Anders
August 19th, 2009
4:21 pm
Steve- Haven’t you heard? ERA isn’t that important. Efrim said so.
MFin04
August 19th, 2009
4:21 pm
I really don’t understand how Garret Anderson does this team any good batting 2nd? At least Adam has moved up to the 5th spot. Took him what 5 homers in 15 games to move up to the 5th spot?
1. Infante
2. Anderson
3. Chipper
4. Mac
5. Roch
6. Esco
7. Diaz
8. Church
9. Jurrjens
Steve from OH
August 19th, 2009
4:21 pm
Soph–no, Bobby’s Cox is a really new-age manager and bats the pitcher 8th. I’m just a light-hitting utility infielder…
Mixxo from Bonaire
August 19th, 2009
4:23 pm
Omar needs to get back to his pre-injury playing weight. Those extra lbs. he’s put on have affected his play IMO. Not the same kind of fire he had earlier.
Steve from OH
August 19th, 2009
4:23 pm
Anders–you may want to re-read that.
brent a.
August 19th, 2009
4:25 pm
dumb idea, that idea has been kicked aroun in the blogosphere at least since the end of the 2005 season. It looked (to some) like Wilson Betemit would be a more than adequate every 5th day type.
As it turned out, Betemit was traded that season (in July) on the same day that Chipper went down with an injury. The Braves got Willy Aybar in the trade, who ended up breaking his hand in his first game with the Braves.
anyway, I don’t think it’s a dumb idea; however, I think one of the Braves haven’t done it as that for the last few years, the team hasn’t had anyone to provide much protection to the rest of the line-up, other than Chipper, and also, it may be that the injuries he’s getting aren’t really that avoidable, and more time off may not actually help him avoide them. (I.e., he’ll still take batting practice, pinch-hit, etc.).
tvsportscaster
August 19th, 2009
4:26 pm
Looks like Kelly Johnson is deep in Bobby’s doghouse, he’s not even getting the start at 2nd against a righthanded pitcher when Prado’s not available.
Nova Scotia Steve
August 19th, 2009
4:26 pm
Well its a good thing Omar Infante is healthy…Or we’d prolly have to DL Prado to make room for a call-up such as Conrad or Diory
scott
August 19th, 2009
4:27 pm
Good to see Roche moving up, but I still can put together a better lineup than ole Cox…
Infante
Diaz
Chipper
LaRoche
McCann
Escobar
Anderson
Church
JJ
And what ever happened to letting KJ play when he is hot?
tvsportscaster
August 19th, 2009
4:28 pm
You can always send down an extra pitcher to call up an extra bench guy and keep Prado active. If there is one pitching staff, that doesn’t need 12 pitchers, it’s this one.
Nova Scotia Steve
August 19th, 2009
4:30 pm
yeah Logan would definitely been a send down option….
BL
August 19th, 2009
4:31 pm
PWHjort
August 19th, 2009
3:37 pm
Absolutely hilarious
Kelly Johnson's Ego
August 19th, 2009
4:32 pm
What does it take to get some playing time?
chris from md
August 19th, 2009
4:32 pm
Shaun,
Good question. I expected him to do a little better than this. Not only was I hoping for 200 innings but also an E.R.A. below 4.00. I wouldn’t say he’s been a bust. Just a little bit disappointing.
Chris from MD
Mixxo from Bonaire
August 19th, 2009
4:34 pm
Nova Scotia Steve -
Got that right. No way in HE** I want to see “no-hit” Diory up here for a while anyway.
Efrim
August 19th, 2009
4:38 pm
Steve- Haven’t you heard? ERA isn’t that important. Efrim said so.
Anders–you may want to re-read that.
Classic. Simply classic.
Anders, buddy…..pal…..you have your thoughts on what you think is important in baseball. You can think that way. I have mine. I like my world around me to make sense, so that’s why I will state that “ERA doesn’t tell the whole story”. You can mess around with that statement as much as you like, but that’s all I said.
Schafer Obliterator
August 19th, 2009
4:39 pm
Yes we were putrid last night
good to get that smell out
Now for some winning ball and getting back on track, we need this 2 of 3 from the mutts
njbraves
August 19th, 2009
4:40 pm
This blog has officially lost it’s mind. Now people are complaining that KJ isn’t playing?? Really? The same KJ, who many here said was going to ruin the Braves offense when he returned? The line up is fine. Cox has limited options right now. It’s amazing how people will complain about everything.
Shamus Thacker
August 19th, 2009
4:40 pm
Mixxo f B: Not the same kind of fire he had earlier.
That happens to players who co-mingle with this moribund bunch for a while… You could put out this team’s cumulative fire with a good beer-pizz. Escobar, Prado, Diaz, and Mac, are the only REAL fire on this team, among everyday players.. Bots round-out the unit.
njbraves
August 19th, 2009
4:41 pm
Cox apologists…..You need to chill out bud. You’re gonna give yourself a heart attack…it’s only baseball. We all want the Bravos to do well, but you have some issues.
TnBrian
August 19th, 2009
4:41 pm
JJ is going to step up big tonight. We win easy.
dogsbrekky
August 19th, 2009
4:42 pm
Gosh, the negative press are out in force today
I will take Lowe with 6 great starts followed by a fiasco such as last night…. well maybe not as bad as last night,, but I will take Lowe at 5-0 followed by ONE shocker
we need to go 2 for 2 now and keep winning series
Rob from SC
August 19th, 2009
4:42 pm
Omar looks thick. I don’t know how it can be muscle since it is hard to lift with a broken wrist. DOB, is he heavier than usual.
RHR
August 19th, 2009
4:42 pm
2. Anderson
Instead of saying the 2 words I’m thinking….I’ll just say….
The blouses can’t win again tonight, can they?
Nova Scotia Steve
August 19th, 2009
4:43 pm
Know this may be a dumb statement…But anyone see what the Marlins are doing via the box score…10 hits in their last 14 straight ball-games.
YIKES
Paul Lentz
August 19th, 2009
4:43 pm
Shaun…………great posting at 3:49pm. It’s insight like that that is rare on this blog.
Sure, Lowe is overpaid at $15 mil a season. However that does not mean that he is a bust. Frank Wren knew he would have to overpay to attract a healthy, innings eater like Derek Lowe. Derek Lowe has done what Frank Wren has expected of him. He helped stabilize the staff and has been a good mentor to Jair Jurrgens and Tommy Hanson. Plus I’m sure that both him and Javier Vazquez have been good to each other as well.
I’m not worried about him being overpaid. What would worry me is if he was a bust (you know, like Barry Zito is at $18 mil a season. The Giants arent getting anywhere close to $18 mil worth of production from him).
After the disaster that was last year’s starting rotation………I am pleased from what I’ve seen of Lowe. The fact that most on here cant see that is beside the point.
brent a.
August 19th, 2009
4:45 pm
Lowe seemed to have a mid-30’s NL resurgence that without a doubt, gave many fans reason to hope that he would be better, or at least more consistently good than he has been so far this season.
Compared to the previous two years, his SO/BB ratio has gone down (near career lows), his SO/9 innings is down (at a career low), his walks/9 innings is up, his hits/9inning is up, his WHIP is up, he’s already allowed as many earned runs as he did all of last season.
Lowe has been great at times, but a little too often for the taste of some, he’s been quite bad. Clearly, ability is still there, but, the consistency is not.
I don’t think it would be too unrealistic to think that the Braves hoped for more out of Lowe than what they’ve gotten. Especially, when you consider how consistent he was for four years in LA (and those seasons were better than this one has been).
Paul Lentz
August 19th, 2009
4:45 pm
Nova Scotia Steve……..very amusing 4:11pm posting.
boonie27
August 19th, 2009
4:46 pm
tvsportscaster
August 19th, 2009
4:26 pm
Looks like Kelly Johnson is deep in Bobby’s doghouse, he’s not even getting the start at 2nd against a righthanded pitcher when Prado’s not available.
I don’t think it has anything to do with KJ being in the doghouse. I think it has a lot more to do with him being able to hit.
brent a.
August 19th, 2009
4:46 pm
shaun,
you just got the lentz seal of approval. print that out and take it to Dairy Queen for a free blizzard.
Boricua
August 19th, 2009
4:48 pm
To Prado Doctors:
Please google “Ears Crystal” and you found out what wrong with him.
Paul Lentz
August 19th, 2009
4:48 pm
dogsbrekky………totally agree with your 4:42pm posting. However many on here cant see that.
StingerSplash
August 19th, 2009
4:49 pm
A guy I knew back in college who DJ’d at the college radio station loved CCR because, in his words, “they never wrote a love song.” I guess “Sweet Hitchhiker” would be the closest thing and that’s not a “love” song, no?
And doesn’t John Fogerty resemble a young Harrison Ford in that photo, too?
RHR
August 19th, 2009
4:52 pm
JJ is going to step up big tonight. We win easy.
I think you were the ones yesterday who predicted an easy sweep too. Some people never learn…
McFann Ô
August 19th, 2009
4:53 pm
Anders Reminds me of many mid August times with Piazza.
Ya know, I feel bad enough as it is…you don’t hafta make me feel even worse…
Shamus Thacker
August 19th, 2009
4:53 pm
brent a: shaun,
you just got the lentz seal of approval. print that out and take it to Dairy Queen for a free blizzard.”"
brent, didn’t you mean “take it to the dump for a free buzzard?”
trey
August 19th, 2009
4:54 pm
After seeing our players time after time its a wonder some people still can’t spell the names. Its McLouth not McClouth, also people still spell the HOF pitcher Maddux as Maddox. Sorry to complain, I just wish people could spell players names after seeing them day after day or reading about them. When people see McLouth where do they see the McC in there? Now, Salty on the other hand is hard to spell since it is so long.
MFin04
August 19th, 2009
4:54 pm
I really like blizzards!!!
MFin04
August 19th, 2009
4:56 pm
trey – you forgot Vasquez, Andrew Jones, Jair Jurrgens, Mike Gonzales, I’m sure there are more…
bravesgrl4life
August 19th, 2009
4:56 pm
See you bloggers later tonight. GO BRAVES!
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
4:58 pm
dogsbrekky
I guess we didn’t hit those numbers, huh? I guess I’ll keep my day job.
Are you saying that you do not require perfection in your starting pitcher??
Someone earlier stated (I don’t have the time nor the inclination to verify) that he had given up 3 or fewer ER’s in 20 of his 26 starts. I guess that’s 4 good, then one bad. Can you live with those odds.
Yeah, me too!
Kelly Johnson's Heart
August 19th, 2009
4:58 pm
Kelly – Skip, guess Im batting 8th today?
Bobby – Nope, got Infante in there tonight.
Kelly – Oh, I see. Well, you need a donut from the clubhouse?
Bobby – Yeah, get me 2 chocalate covered and tell Escky to turn down that rap music.
Kelly – You got it Skip.
McFann Ô
August 19th, 2009
4:58 pm
Uh…I hate to be picky, but I just remembered…BMac only has one error in his last 7 games. Does have a PB, though…
Novice Ned
August 19th, 2009
4:59 pm
When you arrived at Citi Field this afternoon, DOB, was Lowe still on the mound? Was Bobby still asleep in the dugout? Were Moylan, O’Flaherty and Gonzo all warming up in the bullpen?
Me thinks it’s time for a coaching change.
Mid Town Joe
August 19th, 2009
5:01 pm
Lowe couold reach more more low, he could join us here on the blog!
Brooklyn Braves Brawler
August 19th, 2009
5:01 pm
Nova Scotia Steve,
Very dissapointed you left me off of the Blog All-Star team. I am more Willie Harris type of blogger. Utility man if you will!
Dan Kolb's Mom
August 19th, 2009
5:01 pm
If we blow it again tonight, the blog may implode on itself. Need a solid offensive performance to get back on track. 8 strong innings from JJ wouldnt hurt either. And maybe bean Frenchy just for kicks.
brent a.
August 19th, 2009
5:02 pm
Shaun Payne
Payne started writing about baseball on the web in 1999 for a site called PureBaseball.com. He’s also contributed to FanStop.com, eSports and BaseballTruth.com. StrikeThree.com, HistoricBaseball.com and The Sporting News’ site have published articles by Shaun. In addition to MVN, he currently contributes to Dugout Central. He grew up and lives in Atlanta, a life-long Braves fan. He graduated from Georgia State in 2002 with a degree in journalism. After reading Baseball Between the Numbers, it’s become his goal to make runs batted in and saves unofficial stats.
To reach Shaun, email to shaun_payne@yahoo.com.
Mid Town Joe
August 19th, 2009
5:02 pm
good point tray.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
5:02 pm
How about Riaan Spanjer-Furstenburg or Jarrod Saltalamacchia?
faninva
August 19th, 2009
5:02 pm
Cox apologists…..You need to chill out bud. You’re gonna give yourself a heart attack…it’s only baseball. We all want the Bravos to do well, but you have some issues. —njbraves
I pretty much said the same thing to lentz recently before he was “banned”. I see he’s still here. Like a few others, i think they’re the same person.
Mixxo from Bonaire
August 19th, 2009
5:03 pm
Shamus Thacker’s 4:40 -
Yup, yup!
Sad indeed.
Nova Scotia Steve
August 19th, 2009
5:04 pm
The Braves should have had double barrelled action in both their and Mets Bull-pen during that 4th inning yesterday.
Not to mention someone else down in the tunnel getting lose with the tension bands.
Sweet St. Jerome…
Nova Scotia Steve
August 19th, 2009
5:05 pm
*loose
Brooklyn Braves Brawler
August 19th, 2009
5:05 pm
NJBraves,
Agreed, the blog has personality disorders from time to time. I like KJ right where he is. Coming off the bench against tough lefties or righties out of the pen. The game Monday against Zona where he booted a Sunday hop is why I don’t want him out there playing defense.
wjones
August 19th, 2009
5:05 pm
“we are done. teams that do sh*t like that dont make the postseason. that was the sorriest inning of baseball i have seen from any team all year long.”
Well, back in 1992 we were cruising along with an 8-0 lead against the Cards, a non-playoff team incidentally managed by Joe Torre (who never took the Cards to the playoffs). We had one of our best starters on the mound, who was pitching absolutely brilliant. Without warning, the starter completely lost it, and we wound up losing the game. But we didn’t quit after the game; in fact, we made it all the way to the World Series, due to a valiant comeback in Game 7 of the NLCS that year. And who was that pitcher? The same pitcher who started that same Game 7 of the NLCS–John Smoltz.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
5:05 pm
Brooklyn
I made it as the batting coach. Not sure I want to be anywhere near the pitching coach though. (wouldn’t mind a day with BC though)
Mid Town Joe
August 19th, 2009
5:06 pm
Is it “Runs Batted In” or Run Batted Ins”?
The stat gods call them RBIs.
dogsbrekky
August 19th, 2009
5:09 pm
Wayne, our lotto numbers sucked worse than Lowe last night
But with Lowe we are getting exactly what he has always been, a slight head case who is consistently excellent followed by lows of such horrid proportions, it can be embarassing…
we are all forgetting our offense which can’t get out of it’s own way after the 5th inning…. we just kind of give up, regularly and that is a real shame…
still need 29 wins for the post season but that is getting skinny… I am going to count losses now instead, think we get only 14 more !
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
5:09 pm
Brooklyn and njbraves
It’s obvious that Infante has come back a bit out of playing shape, and has not looked stellar at the bat or in the field yet. I suspect we might be a bit better with KJ playing at second for a few games here. He did come back hitting, then was sat down for a while.
Not that he is going to save the world, but neither has Infante or Prado as of late.
Brooklyn Braves Brawler
August 19th, 2009
5:12 pm
Wayne in Utah,
I just believe that I can contribute. I’m a professional hitter. Very Hal Morris and Buddy Biacalana with my skills
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
5:13 pm
dogsbrekky
While I will never quit pulling for my Braves, I have never had a strong feeling that we would go deep into October. There is always a chance, but I am just not willing to bet the farm on it.
Too much inconsistency, topped off with a lousy start. But hey, stranger things have happened. Ask the 1969 Cub’s!
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
5:14 pm
Brooklyn
Hey, I’ll put in a good word for you w/ Bobby!
jackets77
August 19th, 2009
5:15 pm
I’m surprised that I don’t know this with the number of games I’ve watched this year, but has Anderson batted 2nd this year? I don’t remember seeing that (hell i can’t remember where batted last night, but dont think it was 2nd!)….talk about the slowest 2 thru 5 in a lineup prob anywhere in the majors! Anderson, Chipper, Mac, LaRoche…..hope it works! but I really like Scott’s lineup better thats in this blog…McCann is doing nothing in the cleanup spot and Laroche has shown some decent pop since being here…
jeffrey d
August 19th, 2009
5:16 pm
That sure was an uplifting read.
Brooklyn Braves Brawler
August 19th, 2009
5:16 pm
Wayne In Utah,
I’m a Prado guy, no question. KJ gives me the “willies” out in the field and I’d rather not give any team extra outs given our inability to put consistent runs on the board. KJ may need to be an OF full time next year. 1B is also an option for KJ. I like his heart and athleticism, he is just too streaky.
brent a.
August 19th, 2009
5:20 pm
i think anderson batted second a few games ago
jeffrey d
August 19th, 2009
5:21 pm
I’m sure there are more…
Well there’s Schaefer, Shafer, Shaffer, Shayfur, Hayward…
dogsbrekky
August 19th, 2009
5:21 pm
Wayne – yes I am the eternal optimist, but I would have sacked Bobby today if I owned the team and I do love the guy… but…. oh doesnt matter
but at this stage we are a marginal 50%+ team and by year’s end we need to be a +19-20 wins over 500
we need to hop on our bikes and peddle really fast if we are going to get there
jackets77
August 19th, 2009
5:21 pm
And to anyone that says Cox is still a top notch manager in this game, just has not been watching the Braves this year…just one example is the piss poor mgt of the bullpen…I can recall A LOT of time this year in the 8th or 9th inning of a 4+ or even 5+ run game where the braves are comfortably up, he’s bringing in Gonzo, Moylan or Soriano…and then the next game or two in that same series, one of them is not available in a close game…just makes absolutely no sense…thats just one example….there are many more…don’t get me started on Norton! I’ve said this on these blogs a few times…I’ve been one of the biggest supporters of Cox, and truly think he is one of the best of all time, but the time has come for him to step down…and he HAS to step down…nobody is ever going to fire him
Einstein
August 19th, 2009
5:23 pm
I’m glad Lowe is a Brave, and I think we have a very good starting rotation. Our relievers are ok and should get better, but we can be smarter in the way we utilize them. Our Braves can and should be much better next year; however, Frank Wren needs to make a couple of changes. First, get rid of TP…what a joke-even Frenchie learned to hit better and become more disciplined from the Met’s hitting coach. Next, let Cox (or make Cox) retire. He is THE PROBLEM. Who else would keep TP as hitting coach? Who esle would have Mr. .128Norton even in the majors? And, who else would continue to make bone-headed decisions that continue to cost us games? (I know many of you will disagree with these changes as you believe it is a birthright to stay a Brave, long after your skills have eroded.) Thanks Bobby, we have appreciated your loyalty…have a great retirement. Anyway, just my thoughts…peace.
jer
August 19th, 2009
5:23 pm
Don’t dump this loss on Lowe. Bobby Cox left him beyond any rational point (and I believe Cox was responsible for much of the team’s 14 years success. Furthermore, I agree that Lowe is overpaid and not an ace, but is above average. However,when a pitcher pitches 3 scoreless innings and has a 2.91 ERA in his last five starts, but starts giving up hits to everyone after being hit in the hand, isn’t it time to pull him even if (by some miracle) you think all the hits were lucky. I would have pulled him quickly simply to avoid the risk of seriously further injuring his hand because that would be much worse than even losing the game. Besides Medlen has been consistently dropping his ERA and if he could last 4 innings that would have taken us to the eighth. Medlen needs to be used more in true long relief, if only to reduce the number of appearances of other bullpen members.
jeffrey d
August 19th, 2009
5:23 pm
Garret’s 0-3 when batting 2nd
http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/players/5289/situational;_ylt=Al5dpOHe3Fb52UQ61Mx8_MuFCLcF
ncscoots
August 19th, 2009
5:24 pm
I didn’t make the cut on Nova Scotia Steve’s squad, but, my wrist is healing and I plan to type a lot of winter ball to get ready for next season. I think I can contribute to the big club, but I’ll play whereever NSS wants me and just try to be ready if he needs me.
McFann Ô
August 19th, 2009
5:24 pm
brent a–
Yeah, GA batted second on Sunday…and he was on first and couldn’t score when my mann hit a two-out double…cost ‘im an RBI…
Course, BMac’s cost himself a few RBI over this slump, so I guess I can’t get too up-in-arms about that one…
monty
August 19th, 2009
5:25 pm
When hitters get basehits in between the infielders do they say they just got lucky? WHat if a linedrive falls in between outfielders? Do they say they got lucky? What would constitute a hit being just a normal hit or a lucky hit? Surely not that it rolled through an opening in the infield or fell perfectly equal distance from the outfielders. Is a batted ball that hits at the top of the wall and bounces back for a double “unlucky” and one that barely scrapes over the wall for a HR “lucky?” If it barely scrapes over the wall nobody that ever hit one of those said, “Boy I sure was lucky today.” What they might say is I got just enough of it” which is true but more than likely “I got all of that one.” And after all they did. Unlucky is just a term to console losing. To be sure bad breaks and good breaks happen in all sports, but to call a 10 hit 8 run inning just bad luck is a way to console the losers. After all if it truly was luck or a lack therof then it’s nobody’s fault, right? WHy can’t BC just say I made a mistake I should have gotten him earlier? I can respect a man owning up to a mistake but when people call it just bad luck, I can’t.
PAul Lentz
“Offense should have stepped it up when they saw Lowe didn’t have his stuff.”
You act as if the offense should have held a secret meeting and someone (say McCAnn), says, “OK fellas Lowe doesn’t have his real good stuff tonight so lets score more runs than we were planning on scoring or “let’s really try hard versus taking it easy on them.” I don’t know how much sports you’ve ever played but when something takes that drastic of a turn like what happend in the 4th inning and you have the momentum and in an instant, they get it back, it’s really hard to over come that. The pendulum swing is just too great. WHAt happened in the 4th inning last night is the equivalent of being up 14 points at the half of a football game and the opposing team comes back in the 3rd quarter with 28 unanswered points on maybe a returned interception, a kick off return for a TD and an 80 yard bomb for a TD. Most teams just can’t snap their fingers and get “ole Mo” back, no matter how hard they try.
jeffrey d
August 19th, 2009
5:25 pm
jer – You’re a little late to the finish line, but way to hustle in.
Cheese
August 19th, 2009
5:27 pm
What about:
Schafer CF
Prado 2B
Chipper 3B
Heyward RF
LaRoche 1B
McCann C
Esky SS
Pitcher
McClouth LF
I kinda liked what Torre did in LA
Mixxo from Bonaire
August 19th, 2009
5:27 pm
Here’s the scuttlebutt on Bobby….once and for all.
He will NOT be fired and he will NOT step down. That’s the way it is and the way it’s gonna be for years to come. Get over it folks.
jeffrey d
August 19th, 2009
5:29 pm
Bobby isn’t responsible for most of the crap he gets on here, but when he does screw up, he sure likes to make ‘em gems, doesn’t he?
brent a.
August 19th, 2009
5:29 pm
McFann, good memory. After GA didn’t score, Joe morgan specifically mentioned a key differnce between the Braves and Phillies being “team speed”.
Einstein
August 19th, 2009
5:31 pm
Mixxo…I would be so sure. Things change
CB
August 19th, 2009
5:32 pm
I left the blog the other night when I read DOB state that Paul Lentz would be banned from the blog. I have not been able to read the last few nights because of my wife’s illness. Why is he still here?
Einstein
August 19th, 2009
5:32 pm
Mixxo, I WOULDN’T be so sure…sorry for the typo.
dogsbrekky
August 19th, 2009
5:32 pm
Because I was left off MSS list as well, I have decided to be the owner of the blog team..
My team
1. The team spy = Anders
2. Paul Lentz (can’t be any slower than Loaf)
3. ncscoots – switch hitter with power
4. bubdylan = anyone that funny could out hit B Mac at cleanup
5. McFann = jus because
6. Dobi One Knobi cause someone has to bring the BBQ and music
7. dogsbrekky cause I am te owner and a player and the starting pitcher and can “rake” in my dreams
8. Kelly Johnson so I have someone t yell at for effing up basic groundballs
9. Lew cause there has to be some big bat on the team somewhere
Manager = monty cause he has intellect
McFann Ô
August 19th, 2009
5:34 pm
brent a–
Thanks…heck, I only remembered ’cause it involved BMac. (
JK)
Oh man, but if Morgan would have pointed out “the difference between that Braves and the Fillies” one more time, I was gonna jump through the TV and punch him in the brain…He had to tell us the difference between their cleanups hitters, too. I’m like, “Thanks, Morgan…shut up.”
Ha! But I did love how Jon Miller, during BMac’s first AB, said something to the effect of, “McCann hasn’t hit lefties very well this year…of course, he hasn’t hit much off anybody lately…”
BMac doubles…boo-yah.
dogsbrekky–
“Just because”??
monty
August 19th, 2009
5:36 pm
WOWEEE!! Baseball is a great game! In what other sport can you make 15 mil per year and be the definition for mediocre? a 15 mil per year “innings eater!” High Era, high WHip,and other stats. I guess the Braves just can’t afford a true star! How much do “them there” stars cost? 20 mil per year?
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
5:38 pm
For all the Bobby bashers, does he EVER make a good decision? I want to ask you guys for Manual’s GOOD moves from last night?
Most will not be able to list any good moves, because every manager makes good moves, and they mostly go unnoticed. The bad moves stand out.
Bobby ain’t a great tactician. He manages a bullpen the same way he has always managed his bullpens. To be honest, he is NEVER going to be good enough for a lot of you folks.
As a matter of fact, my dad has hated him for nearly 20 years, complaining constantly about him. He is a lot like some of you folks; he only see’s the moves that end up being questionable.
Ah heck, I don’t know why I bother….
detroitchirs
August 19th, 2009
5:38 pm
DOB, just curious if you’ve checked out the new Brendan Benson album and what your impressions were if you had.
jeffrey d
August 19th, 2009
5:38 pm
Does Anders have enough speed to lead off?
Mid Town Joe
August 19th, 2009
5:39 pm
Some of you guys/gals remind me of Jim Carey’s line in “Dumb and Dumber”
when Laureen Holley tells him “its more like one in a million”, and Jim Carey says, “Y E S , then there’s a chance!”
Nelson
August 19th, 2009
5:39 pm
Naah!!! I’m not goign to say anything, the Doctor prohibited me to talk about Cox!!!
ncscoots
August 19th, 2009
5:40 pm
Bubba, no offense “picks up” a starter who drops an 8-ball on you, LOL. That’s just ludicrous. Lowe had a bad night, and the loss is on him.
But, so what? Game’s over and on the back of the bubblegum card. Bloggers can still moan and whine, if they want, but the players have another game in a couple of hours. Yesterday is over, just like every other bad loss this year that drew cries of outrage and forecasts of doom from blogdom. Lots of tree-huggers, few forest-viewers, is what I’m sayin’.
braves4ever
August 19th, 2009
5:41 pm
Back after a road trip and it looks like the bloggers have got up off the mat and Anders is still bouncing around like a kid in a candy store.
I’m feeling this one tonight, JJ’s got a 2.35 era at Citi Field and will be the equalizer. Go BRAVES
jeffrey d
August 19th, 2009
5:44 pm
JJ’s got a 2.35 era at Citi Field and will be the equalizer
Funny. If you said yesterday that the Braves would need an “equalizer” when facing a team missing its top 4 hitters, you’d have gotten a ripping comparable to Paul Lentz’s daily rippings.
But today we’re like “hmmm….maybe you’re right. Maybe he will be an equalizer.”
Mid Town Joe
August 19th, 2009
5:48 pm
gonna go fire up the grill……….
dogsbrekky
August 19th, 2009
5:48 pm
Wayne and scoots – I totally lost it last night but luckily was alone (well with the dog and he avoids me in such moments), but I was begging Bobby to bring in the little dog when we were up 4-3, just begging the tv, please Bobby please
then at 8-4 I was cussing and calling him every nasty swear word I could think of in many a language….
and I did this because for the 1st time (to me) he just looked LOST…..
McFann – just because you are a SWEET YOUNG LADY, okay, but you will not be the catcher on my team, Lew is cause I hear he can block my relentless in the dirt splitters
David O'Brien
August 19th, 2009
5:48 pm
LINEUP was correct posted earlier. Here it is again, just in case you missed it:
1. Infante
2. Anderson
3. Chipper
4. Mac
5. Roch
6. Esco
7. Diaz
8. Church
9. Jurrjens
Francoeur on Mets pregame show right now, doing their “In the Wheelhouse” segment, smiling and discussing the whole change of scenery, making adjustments to NY, etc.
lee
August 19th, 2009
5:48 pm
it seems that people still want to deflect cox’s iddiotic decision last night by saying: ” if this person had made this play” or “that player had of made that play” then the mets wouldnt have scored all of the runs. If Cox had of taken a pitcher out that was plainly in trouble, then they wouldnt had to have those plays in the first place. hit!! after hit!! after hit!! after hit!! after hit!!!!! to get a double-play!!
Nelson
August 19th, 2009
5:50 pm
Wayne in Utah: It is like in your job man!. I’m sure you use to do a lot of good things everyday and your Boss will say: That’s what I pay you for. But when you screw up something, he puts the blame on you big time. Cox is paid for make good decisions all the time, and yesterday was a terrible one, like keeping Mc Cann as cleanup hitter in a big slump, remember Andruw?. Same sh…
And that’s all I have to say, my blodd pressure started to raise.
Bat Masterson
August 19th, 2009
5:50 pm
Enter your comments here
braves4ever
August 19th, 2009
5:50 pm
I still believe “if they don’t score on you they can’t beat ya”, (per Bear Bryant maybe).
We need a big time game from ole JJ and he knows it. tonight.
dogsbrekky
August 19th, 2009
5:50 pm
midtown joe – I cooked up some mean little porkie ribs today
my baste is plenty of Volcanic chilli sauce, sambal oelek in case the volcanic is malfunctioning, some salt, some vinegar and some Italiano balsamic (lots of it)… kind of turned out okay but I had to cook it on the gas BBQ as was out of the char… (gulp)
dogsbrekky
August 19th, 2009
5:52 pm
Move Church from the 8 spot to 1 and push everyone else down one and we are sweet !
David O'Brien
August 19th, 2009
5:52 pm
How ’bout this likely matchup
SaturdaySunday at Gwinnett: Hudson vs. Jake Peavy. Huddy’s next schedule start is Sunday at Gwinnett, And Peavy also started last night and should be on schedule to make his next rehab start Sunday for the White Sox Triple-A affiliate against Gwinnett….detroitchirs: No, but that Brendan Benson CD, and one by a group called Japandroids, are at top of my list to get next. Heard great stuff about each of them, want to hear for myself before I purchase.
braves4ever
August 19th, 2009
5:53 pm
Mid Town Joe
gonna go fire up the grill……….
O no don’t you do that to us again , Heath made the blog sizzle last night with his cooking.
ncscoots
August 19th, 2009
5:54 pm
Guess Bobby is determined to play Infante enough to get him up to big-league-game speed.
Heath
August 19th, 2009
5:54 pm
Nova Scotia Steve
August 19th, 2009
4:11 pm
All-Star Atlanta Braves AJC Blog Starting 9 & Front Office
1. RHR
2. Shamus Thacker
3. Rob from SC
4. David O’Brien
5. McFann – Cause I know she doesn’t like the clean-up spot
6. Tomahawkin
7. Mixxo
8. TnBrian
9. Steve from OH
Manager: Bobby’s Cox
Hitting Coach: Wayne in Utah
Pitching Coach: Paul Lentz
General Manager: Martha Stewart
Head Scout: Carroll Rogers
And I’m the top prospect in minors, riiiiiiight
braves4ever
August 19th, 2009
5:56 pm
DOB, I’m thinking to load up the boys and head over to Gwinnett Sat, hmm ,sounds like a good game.
faninva
August 19th, 2009
5:56 pm
DOB –
would you like to weigh in on this?
CB Stated – “I left the blog the other night when I read DOB state that Paul Lentz would be banned from the blog. I have not been able to read the last few nights because of my wife’s illness. Why is he still here?”
CB – i was wondering the same thing.
dogsbrekky
August 19th, 2009
5:56 pm
Dobi – not sure where they put you up in NYC, but for some great eats (Italian) try
Basso 56 my favorite city Italian (excellent pastas) on West 56th between Broadway and 8th or if you are in for some Sinatra types head next door to Patsys (Frankie’s old haunt)… also Roberto’s on 9th and 50th or
Osteria Pepe Rosso on 52nd between 8th and 9th are very good
McFann Ô
August 19th, 2009
5:56 pm
dogsbrekky–
Aw, thanks.
Hmm…not the catcher, though…dang. Cann I play 1B or someplace in the outfield?
Bat Masterson
August 19th, 2009
5:57 pm
Someone may have already commented on this , but John Fogerty recently reconciled with Fantasy Records after they were bought out by Concord Music Group. Fogerty did not regain ownership of his song catalog, he is however working on some new material. At one point his legal battle with Saul Zaentz reached the SCOTUS.
RBI Special Agent
August 19th, 2009
5:57 pm
WHy must Mc-canthit bat clean up? If you must put a lefty there why wouldnt you put the hottest hitter on teh team there? The only thing he’s cleaning up lately are his plates with his tounge after every meal.
ncscoots
August 19th, 2009
5:57 pm
I’m sure you use to do a lot of good things everyday and your Boss will say: That’s what I pay you for. But when you screw up something, he puts the blame on you big time.
If that’s your situation, then you’re working for the wrong guy, dude. Big time. Laboring under management by accusation is no way to live.
braves4ever
August 19th, 2009
5:58 pm
Nova Scotia Steve ,David O’Brien needs to be 3rd base coach he’s like most of us ,to old to play the field.
dogsbrekky
August 19th, 2009
5:58 pm
McFann – seeing the rest of my team are old farts like me, it is likely you will be SS
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
5:59 pm
Nova Scotia Brave And Heath….!
LOL, I’m Flattered…!
Now We just need our Own Individual Intro songs…!
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
5:59 pm
Nothing slow in that last lineup, huh!
faninva
August 19th, 2009
6:00 pm
CB -
btw – I hope your wife is feeling better.
dogsbrekky
August 19th, 2009
6:00 pm
Wading thru Mad Men, so off to watch 2 more episodes before we eat some mutts for dinner..
god bless and have a great night y’all
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
6:00 pm
I for one do not like Loaf Hitting second…!
I’d rather have Matty-D in that sopt. Bobby has already made a move that might cost us the game and the game hasn’t even started yet
Anders
August 19th, 2009
6:01 pm
Anders batting leadoff. I like it. I will swipe bases Dogsbrekky so don’t nail me to first al la Bobby Cox.
RBI Special Agent
August 19th, 2009
6:01 pm
Here’s my projected line-up result:
1. walk
2. hit
3. out
4. double play
5. HR
6. out
7. who knows
8. out
9. out
blah blah…….guy threw like cy young today……we hit ball hard just right at people……blah blah blah
David O'Brien
August 19th, 2009
6:01 pm
Nothing yet on Prado, who had a 2:45 appointment with neurosurgeon (yes, they’re doing serious tests apparently) but didn’t land in Atlanta until about that time.
Looks like rain any moment here. As humid, or more, right now here than the most humid day I can remember in Atlanta.
CB
August 19th, 2009
6:03 pm
thanks,faninva
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
6:04 pm
Dave, thanks for the update on Prado. I am sure you will keep us posted.
Anders
August 19th, 2009
6:05 pm
Enjoy the game Braves fans. I’ll be back win or lose – I promise.
Yunel's Frosted Tips
August 19th, 2009
6:05 pm
Kill 2 Birds with one stone:
Offseason: Name Chipper Player/Manager like Pete Rose used to do in Cincy, just tell him not to bet on games.
Give the Old Coot a ceremonial position in the front office and tell him to
hit the treadmill in his new spare time (Cox)
Kevin
August 19th, 2009
6:05 pm
Well last night was a great show chipper jones be are Manager he could not even coach a Little league Team…As for Manager here If Jimmy Leyland been here since 1991 we had 6 world series rings by now and been the Team of the Ninety’s But Noooo….Under Bobby(wifebeater)cox Just 1 Title!and lets not forget his chokin to fla a wild card team win a world series to….and chokin to Philles n Padres n arizona in 2001 n those great non-managered Games in wild cards.This is why seats were empty since 2000 playoffs. You all remember Last Game and sat where all The Braves need was win both n played dodgers instead but Oh No chipper Jones last out throws ball over the relief Pitcher who gave home run up to that fellow in Game 4 in world series…U know one Bobby cox ruin his carear later!and we lost 3-0 to St.Louis remember and cox lost it and the chokein still remains’
NO MORE BOBBY
August 19th, 2009
6:06 pm
Something you won’t see Bobby doing…..
http://a323.yahoofs.com/ymg/ept_sports_mlb_experts__35/ept_sports_mlb_experts-359321650-1250636346.jpg?ym6YMwBDKqqRp19_
Mike S
August 19th, 2009
6:07 pm
Kelly’s 7 for 18 vs Johan in his career, while Omar is 2 for 24 off him. Not sure why Kelly wasn’t in the lineup tonight, but hopefully we’ll see him in there tomorrow night.
Also, Matty Diaz is 11 for 20 off Santana. Pretty sure he’ll be in there tomorrow…
Shamus Thacker
August 19th, 2009
6:07 pm
Wayne, your Dad knows Bobby was able to close the deal just once. 14-straight chances; once.
Lots of position players came and went during those years, but the lineup remained strong year-in year-out. Starting pitching was always superb. We were definitely the strongest team on paper many of those years. JS had carte blanche (from Ted) to put together WS teams as he chose. The players were in place, the pitching was in place, the table was set to the nines. What happened? Why were we so frequently outplayed by inferior teams come postseason?
Somebody tell me, I’m really interested…
munz
August 19th, 2009
6:08 pm
DOB, any word on whether or not you’ve heard or heard of American Aquarium … gotta give ‘em a listen if you’re into Whiskeytown, Jason Isbell, etc. …
Kevin
August 19th, 2009
6:08 pm
Oh John smoltz is goin be starter for cardinals to and guess what i think St.Louis come here to still and yes atlanta fans show up see him pitch a 3 hitter as cox will pick his nose n Nuts as cards win 12-0.Oh n smoltz will help win Central when face Cubs in Old wrigley field home of those loveable loser n still lookin for a world series Title….again!
Steve McP
August 19th, 2009
6:09 pm
DOB is that match up at Gwinnett on Saturday or Sunday, I can’t quite work it out from your post.
NO MORE BOBBY
August 19th, 2009
6:09 pm
Another weird lineup from Bobby again tonight. I think he has really lost his mind!!!
David O'Brien
August 19th, 2009
6:09 pm
dogsbrekky, as I wrote in the first few graphs of the blog today, I’m staying in Flushing. Not Manhattan….
braves4ever: speak for yourself — I can move, bro. I’m 175 pounds and fit, ready to play the OF or anywhere else on your team.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
6:11 pm
Shamus
Don’t know what to tell you my friend. Some of us see the glass as half full, not half empty. I am thankful for a run of 14 championship teams, and thrilled that we won the WS in 1995. I don’t look at what might have been.
I guess we will have to agree to disagree on BC.
Shamus Thacker
August 19th, 2009
6:12 pm
That is one dysfunctional batting order!
David O'Brien
August 19th, 2009
6:12 pm
My bad on the confusing Hudson-Peavy matchup post. It’s Sunday, not Saturday.
Bravissimo
August 19th, 2009
6:12 pm
Hey Dob, whats for grub in citifield pressbox?..Bradley says hes cheap and buys pizza slices at Turner..
Supes
August 19th, 2009
6:14 pm
Francoeur on Mets pregame show right now, doing their “In the Wheelhouse” segment, smiling and discussing the whole change of scenery, making adjustments to NY, etc.
***********************
This is why I could CARE less about getting updates on this individual who quit on the Braves in 08 when things weren’t going well, and he was sucking it up.
Nothing he EVER does will erase the FAILURE that he was for the last 18 months as an ATL. Brave.
He owes the Braves organization & fans a fraking apology, but I’m sure we’ll never get one. After all…”he’s free now from all the pressure, my God that pressure of having to play in my home town….nevermind that if it weren’t for that reason I’d be benched, released traded a long time ago and they tolerated me longer than they should have!”
Good Riddance to Jessica FRANCINE!
BravesfaninWis
August 19th, 2009
6:15 pm
I’m so disgusted with this team after last nights meltdown,, There is no excuse alive right now on what happened last night,. If Lowe uses that blister as an excuse, he will be even a bigger joke then I thought. This team has shown reason to think that they can finally end a playoff drought, and just when think they are going to turn things around, they have a pathetic game against a pathetic team like last night.
I am just tired of this team, and I know most of you on here could care less, but I will not post on here again until this joke of a team turns things around, so that means I may be on here again next season, maybe not..
Jim Rockford
August 19th, 2009
6:17 pm
The gayest thing I’ve seen in a long time: AJC blog starting 9. ARE YOU SERIOUS? Get a life!
Mixxo from Bonaire
August 19th, 2009
6:17 pm
Tomahawkin -
I’m good with the 7 hole. I’ve hit there before with excellent results.
Walk up tune? Dibs on Nine Inch Nails’ “Closer.” Yeah baby!
McFann Ô
August 19th, 2009
6:18 pm
dogsbrekky–
Hmm…think I might be able to handle shortstop (gotta brush up on my ground-ball fielding.
). ‘Specially since, huh, I may not have the bat for a corner spot…I flattered myself on that request. 
Oh man…Bradley gets pizza at Turner Field? Me, too…come to think of it, those hot dogs don’t look so bad…
Moderate Maniac
August 19th, 2009
6:19 pm
The blog heading, “Lowe reaches another low vs. NY” should actually read,”Lowe reaches another low vs. NY thanks in large part to Bobby Cox”
Mid Town Joe
August 19th, 2009
6:19 pm
Grillin talapia and steamin some veggies. gotta eat right every few days. got me a juicer, which is fine, but sure a pain to clean.
few cloves of garlic in the garlic press go on the veggies while they’re steamin.
sip some wine whilst we wait.
Bravissimo
August 19th, 2009
6:20 pm
McFann…what happened to your turtles feet???
Nova Scotia Steve
August 19th, 2009
6:20 pm
Jim Rockford just got optioned to single A ball…
McFann Ô
August 19th, 2009
6:21 pm
Walk-up song? Hmm…mighty need some time to think about that. Lotta my faves may not be ideal walk-up tunes…
drumzalicious
August 19th, 2009
6:22 pm
Line Up isnt bad however i would prefer.
Church
Infante
Chip
LaRoche
Mac
Esco
Anderson
Diaz
McFann Ô
August 19th, 2009
6:23 pm
Bravissimo–
He stuck them in his shell…he does that when he’s sad.
He thanks you for showing concern.
Mike S
August 19th, 2009
6:23 pm
braves4ever: speak for yourself — I can move, bro. I’m 175 pounds and fit, ready to play the OF or anywhere else on your team.
-DOB
So you’re the Anti-Bowman, eh?
Jim Rockford
August 19th, 2009
6:23 pm
Jim Rockford doesn’t live in your make-believe world.
dogsbrekky
August 19th, 2009
6:23 pm
DOBI – Flushing – any Chinese or Korean or if you can get up the road a few miles try Parkside (Italian) in Corona, it is a great people watching place and the food is good and moderately priced
okay night all
McFann Ô
August 19th, 2009
6:23 pm
drumzalicious–
Uh, boo-yah. I prefer that lineup, too.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
6:24 pm
Wisconsin
Later…
faninva
August 19th, 2009
6:24 pm
drumzalicious -
I like your lineup – especially with Mac in the 5 spot.
McFann Ô
August 19th, 2009
6:25 pm
and I know most of you on here could care less
Couldn’t care less, dangit!
McFann Ô
August 19th, 2009
6:26 pm
faninva I like your lineup – especially with Mac in the 5 spot.
Jah!
Pete
August 19th, 2009
6:26 pm
McFann Ô: “Oh man…Bradley gets pizza at Turner Field? Me, too…come to think of it, those hot dogs don’t look so bad…”
Hope you bring your ATM card lol go across street to Bullpen before game for much better food at about 1/2 the price.
Bravissimo
August 19th, 2009
6:27 pm
Its the least I could do Mc
McFann Ô
August 19th, 2009
6:27 pm
Mid Town Joe–
Whoa! We’re having talapia, too…not grilled, though. Cooked…with garlic, lemon, uh…pepper…prob’ly some salt, too…and parsley.
wjones
August 19th, 2009
6:28 pm
“BravesfaninWis
August 19th, 2009
6:15 pm
I’m so disgusted with this team after last nights meltdown,, There is no excuse alive right now on what happened last night,. If Lowe uses that blister as an excuse, he will be even a bigger joke then I thought. This team has shown reason to think that they can finally end a playoff drought, and just when think they are going to turn things around, they have a pathetic game against a pathetic team like last night.
I am just tired of this team, and I know most of you on here could care less, but I will not post on here again until this joke of a team turns things around, so that means I may be on here again next season, maybe not..”
Yes, and you were the same person who said on Saturday that they were through with the Braves forever, yet you are still here. You are just making yourself look foolish.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
6:28 pm
If guys like Lowe and Kawakami were put on waivers, would they get picked up?
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
6:29 pm
Mixxo,…Walk Up Music…
I gotta go with what Sheffield Uses “Here I go” by old
Mystikal
Plan B would Be Ambitionz az a Ridah” by 2pac
klaus
August 19th, 2009
6:29 pm
I don’t think a mid market team like the Braves owned by an disinterested corporation can afford to spend $60mm on a MOR/BOR pitcher who will just decline precipitously over a 4 year deal.
That was and is a desperation move by Wren. With guys like JJ, Vaz, Hudson, Hansen and Medlen you don’t need Lowe but you are stuck with him.
Hudson
Vaz
JJ
Hanson
Medlen (KK would be here until Medlen was ready)
With money left (Lowe’s & KK’s) to sign Holiday or Bay for LF.
But now Wren needed to make some kind of a splash and sign Lowe.
wjones
August 19th, 2009
6:29 pm
“If guys like Lowe and Kawakami were put on waivers, would they get picked up?”
Yes, and we would have to pay their contract.
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
6:30 pm
McFann
I’m third on the Talapia list…
I’m gonna squeeze Limes on mine cutem up and serve slices of lime on top, and I gotta have my Big Boy Baked Tater to go with that!
njbraves
August 19th, 2009
6:30 pm
Kevin…Congrats on being today’s most clueless poster. You must be proud, you beat out some real legends.
Nova Scotia Steve
August 19th, 2009
6:30 pm
David O’Brien
August 19th, 2009
6:12 pm
My bad on the “cornfusing” Hudson-Peavy matchup post. It’s Sunday, not Saturday.
faninva
August 19th, 2009
6:31 pm
McFann -
gotta admit, I didn’t know what that was until i looked it up. cheers!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tilapia
njbraves
August 19th, 2009
6:32 pm
klaus….i understand that the Braves seem like a mid market team, but they really aren’t. They spend just as much or more than all but 8-10 teams.
O'Brien
August 19th, 2009
6:32 pm
DOB,
Any reason why Bobby does not give David Ross more PT (considering BMac is struggling, maybe 2 or 3 days in a row will help him).
Shamus Thacker
August 19th, 2009
6:34 pm
Wayne, I’m thankful for those 14-years too, but I’ve been convinced (right here) that I might have been wrong about Bobby all along. I can’t tell you how many friendly arguments I’ve had DEFENDING Bobby over the years; Hell, even earlier this year. I’m wondering now if Bobby has lost it, or if he ever had it to begin with. He’s GREAT with players no-doubt, but maybe too great. A manager so universally loved by players is probably not as stern as he should be. He’s probably not as dispassionate making moves as he should be. He’s probably not kicking enough verbal azz in situations where a player’s production has slipped. He’s too damn easy on guys, and too slow to remove underachievers from the lineup.
If Bobby had been without Frenchy from day-one this year, we’d be in first place. If Bobby STILL had Bennett, we’d be even farther out! He will continue to plug Ed Norton into critical situations as long as he’s available. He’s STILL batting B-Mac cleanup! He yanks a starter (JJ) in the 7th when he’s absolutely dealing with no end in sight! He leaves a starter in (D-Lo) till a winnable game is hopelessly lost.
To those of you who can’t see how schizo Bobby’s managing has become, I have but one thing to say.
WTF!?
nique
August 19th, 2009
6:34 pm
DOB, good use of the word “schlep”.
Moderate Maniac
August 19th, 2009
6:35 pm
Since obviously no one wants to be honest with a pitching coach and tell him how he really feels, Lowe needs an emergency code word so he can communicate with the brain trust as to his ability to continue effectively.
If he says to Roger McDowell…..”Green!” That means “don’t worry, just a minor bump…I got these guys right where I want them.”
If he says to Roger McDowell…..”Yellow!” that means ” it’s getting kinda iffy out here…..tell Bobby I may be losing it!”
If he says to Roger McDowell…..”Red!” that means “tell that damn old fool who is asleep in the dugout to get his gimpy butt out here and get me out before they score a dozen off me!!”
braves fan lmh
August 19th, 2009
6:36 pm
Wisconsin,
Why don’t you spend your time worrying about when Brett Favre and the Minnesota Vikings come into Greenbay, and beat your sorry packers! Most braves fans don’t care about the opinion of a bandwagon cheesehead anyway!
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
6:36 pm
wjones
Big difference between DFA’ing a guy and just putting them on the waiver wire. If another team picks up a guy from the waiver wire, the NEW team pays his salary. If a team DFA’s a team, and then if he clears waivers, he is released and his OLD team pays his salary.
If he clears waivers, then his team is allowed to work out a deal for him.
If he is picked up from the waiver wire, then the old team can let him go to the other team for nothing, but the new team picks up his pay. (this is what happened to Rios, I believe)
brent a.
August 19th, 2009
6:39 pm
with the way Ross is used, we might as well have Corky Miller.
Shamus Thacker
August 19th, 2009
6:40 pm
Wayne, the team picking them up is responsible for minimum salary only, so I’d think so…
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
6:41 pm
Shamus
Sorry, I am not going to spend the time to try to convince you that Bobby is exactly what you say, which is why he has been successful. A players manager is not a Pinella type who kicks his players, but instead will take care of those things WAY out of the site of you and me. We will never see that stuff.
Let’s just drop it, I don’t have to energy to go out and back on it to be honest.
faninva
August 19th, 2009
6:41 pm
“A manager so universally loved by players is probably not as stern as he should be. He’s probably not as dispassionate making moves as he should be. He’s probably not kicking enough verbal azz in situations where a player’s production has slipped. He’s too damn easy on guys, and too slow to remove underachievers from the lineup.”—-Shamus Thacker
well, now look. none of us know what he says to players behind closed doors. And let’s not forget the tongue-lashing he gave Andruw for lazy play. Even this year, there were the reports of him getting on Esco for some of his bone-headed plays. He is a player-manager in that he does not leave players out in the wind in the media, like a certain Mets manager did with Church. He defends his players in the public eye, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t kick some azz in the clubhouse or in his office.
njbraves
August 19th, 2009
6:42 pm
Shamus…To say we would be in first place if Francoeur wasn’t on the team at all this year is crazy talk. I tend to agree with most of your post, but I don’t think this is a first place team no matter how you look at it.
wjones
August 19th, 2009
6:44 pm
“wjones
Big difference between DFA’ing a guy and just putting them on the waiver wire. If another team picks up a guy from the waiver wire, the NEW team pays his salary. If a team DFA’s a team, and then if he clears waivers, he is released and his OLD team pays his salary.
If he clears waivers, then his team is allowed to work out a deal for him.
If he is picked up from the waiver wire, then the old team can let him go to the other team for nothing, but the new team picks up his pay. (this is what happened to Rios, I believe)”
Sorry, I misunderstood your post. Still can’t see the Braves doing this while still in the pennant hunt, and yes I would think they would be claimed. KK’s contract isn’t that bad, and with Lowe I’m sure whoever claimed him would try to negotiate a situation where the Braves would split some cost. Or someone like the Red Sox or Yankees wouldn’t care, and since the Red Sox are behind the Yankees in the standings, I could see them putting in a claim not only to help themselves but to keep the Yankees from doing so.
Shamus Thacker
August 19th, 2009
6:44 pm
I thought if a player had a guaranteed contract, the original team had to pay his entire original salary if released OR DFA. Am I wrong?
Nova Scotia Steve
August 19th, 2009
6:45 pm
Wayne in Utah…
Good post…you are correct and that why Toronot did what they did with Rios.
They wanted to salary off the books and got nothing in return from the White Sox.
Pure salary dump on an aweful contract.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
6:46 pm
Shamus
The OLD team ONLY picks up a guys salary if he is released. If he is put on the waiver wire, and is picked up, the NEW team picks up ALL his remaining salary. Also, if a team picks up a DFA’d player before the 10 day period is up, then the new team picks up ALL his remaining salary.
Guys are put on waivers all the time, but rarely are they just flat out released when they are owed so much.
My point in my question is that IF we were blowing off the season, and IF we were confident that Huddy comes back strong, we could float those two out on the waiver wire, to see if somebody down the stretch really wanted a starter bad enough to assume their salary.
McFann Ô
August 19th, 2009
6:48 pm
Pete–
LOL! Yeah, it is a bit pricey, but at least they give you a huge piece…I think I’ve only ever gotten one slice that I was dissatisfied with. (LOVE pizza…if it’s got pepperoni, I’m gonna eat it…)
Tomahawkin–
Sounds good! Hmm…I love potatoes, too…
faninva–
It’s good stuff. I’m not a big fish eater, but this I like. Like me some swordfish, too, but that stuff gets expensive…
brent a ith the way Ross is used, we might as well have Corky Miller.
Seriously…until Monday, I was beginning to wonder if he had been abducted by aliens or something…
Best BUC we’ve had since ‘05, and this is how they treat him…
I Been Watchin
August 19th, 2009
6:48 pm
I been watchin baseball for 50 years. Yes, a fact, 50 years.
The only time I ever seen a pitcher left in to give up 9 hits and 8 runs in one inning was in little league.
Beats all I ever seen!
wjones
August 19th, 2009
6:49 pm
As far as Bobby’s sternness goes, from all accounts he sets rules from day one and players know what is expected. Like others have said, he doesn’t embarass players publicly, but from the way he reacts to things, the way he gets in the umpires faces, the way he is with reporters at times, don’t think he isn’t capable of tearing into a player when the need arises. The player knows, though, that Bobby won’t publicly embarass them, and will stick up for them in the media, with the umpires, etc. So I don’t think for a minute that Bobby is running a “country club” at all; it’s also not a prison ward.
Shamus Thacker
August 19th, 2009
6:49 pm
njbraves, he came up in LOTS of RBI situations, in games ultimately lost, where he struck-out or GIDP. LOTS of those games would have had different outcomes with a few hits in those spots. I honestly believe he lost us AT LEAST 8-games with his REMARKABLE incompetence.
braves5bubblehead
August 19th, 2009
6:51 pm
How can Bobby Cox leave a pitcher in when he is getting rocked like Lowe was last night? I was thinking after the Mets scored 2 runs and Lowe’s history with the Mets and the past games he was hit or rocked, if Joe Torres or Tony LaRusse was managing, or anybody other than Cox, Lowe would have been pulled.
This is why I think the Braves will never win another WS with Cox unless the team is overpowering in hitting and pitching.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
6:51 pm
wjones
Your example of the Red Sox is exactly what I was thinking. If the Braves decided (which I doubt they would) that they did not have a good enough shot at the post season, they might give up Lowe’s contract so that they would be in a better spot salary wise next year.
Another thought is that IF they were confident enough in Medlen and Huddy’s return, then a move like that would be a good start at getting themselves set up to be competitive for FA’s this winter.
(I will probably get an azz reaming from DOB for suggesting such a crazy idea!)
I Quit Watchin
August 19th, 2009
6:53 pm
JJ just started interviewing Frenchy, so I changed the channel.
Can we all say ‘overexposure” for Frenchy even after he’s gone? Surprised SS isn’t still playing “Jeff Francouer, In my own words!”
Dan in NJ
August 19th, 2009
6:54 pm
Not being a wise a$$ here.
I would love to know, what exactly does a (any) manager have to do to get fired?
I read this blog often and I see many people defending BC to death. I just don’t see how and why. What exactly has he done to deserve to continue to manage this team? Nevermind what he hasn’t done.
When do you call for change? When is enough enough? We all know that the Braves haven’t won in years now. SO, when is it time to let him go and try something new?
I’d bet that these same people that defend BC, would be the same people that could walk in on their mates cheating on them and still some how, some way, find an excuse or reason to be ok with it. An excuse such as…..”well I haven’t been making myself available for her so its not really all her fault she cheated on me”…”its my fault as well for not being there for her”. and so on.
Shamus Thacker
August 19th, 2009
6:54 pm
wjones, he embarrassed Yunel publicly….
Mid Town Joe
August 19th, 2009
6:54 pm
McFann,
I got a buddy out in Washington and he travels all over WA, OR, ID, MT, etc. He just got re-married and went on a cruise to Alaska. They got to go salmon fishing, and caught their limit each day. He’s sending me a boatload of smoked salmon from his trip. Can’t wait to cook that!!
18 Wheels of Love
August 19th, 2009
6:56 pm
DOB and other NYC vets,
Heading up in November to see Ricky Gervais at Carnegie Hall. Care to recommend some decent restaurants in the area? I’ve been a few times but looking for something different this go ’round. Gracias.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
6:56 pm
wjones
And if BC makes some goofy comments about how a pitcher had good stuff when he really got rocked, don’t ya think that might be a bit of a spillover of him protecting his guys????
He has ALWAYS done that. He knows that Lowe sucked last night. He’s not going to come out and say “Lowe sucked tonight” unless he knows that is what the pitcher needs to hear.
And some folks get all bent out of shape when he makes those comments. Read between the lines, folks.
Shamus Thacker
August 19th, 2009
6:57 pm
Folks are using faux names to bash Bobby, then returning to their original monikers.
Yep, uh-huh… lol
Pete
August 19th, 2009
6:57 pm
Shamus Thacker: “I thought if a player had a guaranteed contract, the original team had to pay his entire original salary if released OR DFA. Am I wrong?”
Youre right if no one else picks that player up, but if another team signs him (like St Louis with Smoltz) then St. Louis has to pay the minimum salary, pro-rated over the amount of time left in the year (which isnt very much).
ccrider
August 19th, 2009
6:58 pm
njbraves: yes, the Braves are a mid market team. You have the Dodgers, Cubs, Astros, Mets, Phillies. Yankees, Red Sox, Tigers, Angels, and Mariners that are all in the $110 to $200 million range. The Marlins, Nationals, Pirates, Diamondbacks, Giants(for this year anyway)Rays, Orioles,Royals, Twins and Rangers at about $60 Mil and below and the rest fall between between approximately $70 to (7 million.
McFann Ô
August 19th, 2009
6:58 pm
Mid Town Joe–
Sounds good!
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
6:58 pm
Dan in NJ
It’s OK Dan. Some folks just aren’t smart enough to figure stuff out.
Nova Scotia Steve
August 19th, 2009
6:59 pm
The job is Bobby’s until he’s done…period.
Braves Fan in SC
August 19th, 2009
6:59 pm
The Braves lose easily tonight and get swept by the AA Mets tomorrow. Season over folks. This team can’t win with Bobby Cox and Chipper Jones. There I said it.
faninva
August 19th, 2009
6:59 pm
This was posted by “Angus” on M.B.’s blog earlier today. I think it is relavent to the discussion here regarding B.C.
Every Braves blog has now become debate on Bobby Cox. My thoughts:
- You’re not going to change anyone’s mind on this blog.
- Baseball games are decided by the players on the field. The Braves love playing for BC and play/work hard for him.
- The Braves could have mailed-in the season a long time ago – they didn’t. I believe BC had something to do with that.
- He’s as good as any manager in the game. He knows baseball is a numbers game and that’s how it should be managed (i.e., if choice A works 60% and choice B works 40% of the time, you choose A 100% of the time). And he knows the numbers as well as anyone.
- To his detractors every win (2,389 and counting) is in spite of him, every loss is because of him.
- Half of his detractors yell when he pulls a starter (”he’s wearing out the bullpen!”), the other half….you know.
- You can’t game plan for a very good starter getting hammered (2005 Game 1 vs Houston, Hudson 5 ER in 6 IP and last night’s aberration). You lose those games probably 90% of the time, regardless of managerial moves.
- Hindsight management is right 100% of the time. Nothing and no one is right 100% of the time in the real baseball world.
- Time will look very favorably upon Bobby Cox. He will be remembered as one of the all-time greats.
- I pray this doesn’t happen for the Braves, but when he retires, his detractors very likely will get to see what bad management looks like.
Again, by no means am I expecting to change anyone’s mind, but I do think some of you are way off base.
Shamus Thacker
August 19th, 2009
7:00 pm
Wayne, if he was painfully aware that D-Lo sucked, why leave him in so long?
Pete
August 19th, 2009
7:00 pm
McFann Ô: “Pete–
LOL! Yeah, it is a bit pricey, but at least they give you a huge piece…I think I’ve only ever gotten one slice that I was dissatisfied with. (LOVE pizza…if it’s got pepperoni, I’m gonna eat it…)”
I should have clarified re: last time I bought a hot dog at Chop House, it came with potato chips and a $12.00 invoice so lets just say if you and I go to a game, youre buying lol
Frank Drebin
August 19th, 2009
7:00 pm
FIRE BOOBY COX….STRRRRIIIKKKKEEE TWOOOOOOOOO
Trey
August 19th, 2009
7:00 pm
Haha, yeah I forgot to add a few Mfin. I mean typos do happen but I see so many of the same people spelling the names wrong time after time. Its like when Glavine came up people spelled his name as Glavin but that was when he was really young, however, i see that spelling all the time. I don’t understand how people spell Maddux as Maddox it doesn’t even look right when talking about him, heh.
Soph
August 19th, 2009
7:00 pm
I hope we score early otherwise the blog is gonna collapse.
ccrider
August 19th, 2009
7:01 pm
njbraves: Final numbers should be $70 to $97 million.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
7:01 pm
Pete
(not 100% sure, but this is what I think happened)
St. Louis waited until 48 hours after Smoltz was released, so they are liable for a pro-rated portion of league minimum, not the pro-rated portion of his yearly. That is why they waited until after noon today.
DOB, correct me if I am wrong.
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
7:02 pm
Game Time!
Let’s Do This!
Shamus Thacker
August 19th, 2009
7:02 pm
Nova Scotia Steve: The job is Bobby’s until he’s done…period.
Two-hours tops in my Big Green Egg!
Dan in NJ
August 19th, 2009
7:05 pm
Just a thought that came to mind while at work.
Does anyone realize how many Braves pithers ( mainly relief ) have gone down or just hurt in recent years.
Soriano, Gonzo, Smoltz, Glavine, Hudson, Moylan, Campillo, Hampton,
Mike Remy, Hammonds, Karsay, Boyer(?) JoJo, James, and many more that just aren’t comming to mind at this moment. Makes you wonder though…doesn’t it? Any other team had this problem with so many pitchers?
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
7:06 pm
faninva
Couldn’t have said it better…thanks!
Shamus
I don’t know, I wasn’t engaged in the game last night after the 3rd inning. I had heard that BC went out to visit and that McDowell went out again. Could it be something to do with him not going out soon enough due to visits, then after another hit or two, it was too late, so hope for the best???? I don’t know.
I am not about to try to explain every one of BC’s bad moves. Was Medlen ready early enough??? Nothing worse than sending in a guy who is not ready.
Enough….
Shamus Thacker
August 19th, 2009
7:07 pm
Don’t get me wrong; I hope Bobby makes the correct decision 100% of the time and we reach the playoffs! THAT is my main concern. I just believe a change is in due order after the season. I wish I didn’t feel that way, but it’s become obvious to me that he’s done.
rico43
August 19th, 2009
7:07 pm
There is a trail of pitcher’s tears that follows Dusty Baker.
Pete
August 19th, 2009
7:08 pm
Wayne in Utah: “Pete
(not 100% sure, but this is what I think happened)
St. Louis waited until 48 hours after Smoltz was released, so they are liable for a pro-rated portion of league minimum, not the pro-rated portion of his yearly. That is why they waited until after noon today.”
Wayne, thats what I meant (pro-rated portion of minimum, not contract) so maybe my post wasnt clear. But I dont understand what you mean by the 48 hour part; I didnt think it mattered when someone was signed after released?
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
7:10 pm
Dan in NJ
Most teams….
Pete
August 19th, 2009
7:10 pm
“I should have clarified re: last time I bought a hot dog at Chop House, it came with potato chips and a $12.00 invoice…”
Meant to add I had an option to defer payment with no interest until January 2010 lol
Shamus Thacker
August 19th, 2009
7:10 pm
Wayne in Utah: I am not about to try to explain every one of BC’s bad moves.
The fact you acknowledged his “bad moves” is enough….
Paul Lentz
August 19th, 2009
7:12 pm
monty………your 5:25pm posting misses the point. Expecting the offense to pick up the pace last night after that 4th inning has nothing to do with “calling a secret meeting”. It has to do with the offense LOOKING DEEP WITHIN THEMSELVES and saying…….. “our starting pitching has BAILED US OUT on many a night this season when we SUCKED A$$……….tonight we are going to try and return the favor”.
I’m sorry, but you CANNOT TELL ME that the last 6 innings of last night’s game, from an offensive perspective…….WASNT PATHETIC. How many times do I have to say….OLIVER FREAKING PEREZ AND THE PATHETIC METS BULLPEN? On a night when the starting pitching needed the offense to BAIL IT OUT……….our offense LAID DOWN.
There is no other way to spin this. We are 119 games into the season. The starting pitching has carried us this far. It’s ABOUT TIME for the offense to get off its LAZY A$$ and help carry this team on nights when we need it.
Soph
August 19th, 2009
7:14 pm
lol I can picture Loafy’s expression while he’s saying those things to Boog too.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
7:14 pm
Pete
I think if a player is picked up within 48 hours (it could be 72, just not sure) of being DFA’d, the team picking them up assumes a prorated portion of their salary.
braveman
August 19th, 2009
7:15 pm
bubble tea sound good….
however, i doubt i can find any in the great state of alabama…
curtis jones
August 19th, 2009
7:15 pm
A message for all who believe D. Lowe is a good investment at $15 mil per year. So far, the aging “ace” has pitched 154 innings. 230 baserunners allowed. Only 79 K’s, and a 4.45 ERA.
And he’s only going to get older. For 3 more years. Let the celebration begin.
The good news is, one more disaster like Tuesday night, and he’ll dissolve into a sweat puddle, never to blow a big game again.
rico43
August 19th, 2009
7:16 pm
Alabama has bubble puppies
wjones
August 19th, 2009
7:18 pm
Here is a wonderful idea–let’s see how we do the rest of the way before deciding we need a new manager. How many times over the years has a team decided to fire its college basketball coach, then they catch fire in the tourney and reconsider? Doesn’t happen every year, but enough times to make overreaction a bad idea. If we were to win ten in a row, how many would be still saying to get rid of him? Again, as someone else said, this isn’t football, and one game does not make or break us. Yes, wins are precious and important and time is slipping away, but we are still in it. Will we win? Who knows? But it’s a lot more fun to be in a race than out, so let’s see how this thing ends before rushing to judgment.
McFann Ô
August 19th, 2009
7:18 pm
Pete–
Hmm…we’d prob’ly have to bring our own food then…
faninva
August 19th, 2009
7:18 pm
Paul -
Weren’t you banned? ya know, when DOB first posted that you had been toasted until further notice, your posts magically found a new tone, but give it a day or 2 and you’re right back on your screaming and ranting…and I’m sure very soon..insulting verbage.
I’m sorry, but Monty is right – the offense can’t just go in a secret meeting and say – “well, we WERE going to coast tonight but because d-low had a bad inning, we better show the “real” offense. give me a break.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
7:18 pm
Shamus
I dare say that every manager makes mistakes every week.
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
7:22 pm
Nice Gun and Tag by B-Macc and ESCO!!!
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
7:23 pm
I stand corrected that was “O” that made the tag!
McFann Ô
August 19th, 2009
7:23 pm
Ha ha!! You’re out!! Nice throw!
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
7:23 pm
curtis
I guess 20 out of 26 starts with 3 or less ER’s in not good enough for you, huh?
wjones
Doesn’t matter, they have their minds made up already.
faninva
All you gotta do is push the right buttons, and the volcano erupts.
Trey
August 19th, 2009
7:25 pm
The Braves had a bad outing last night, and unfortunately we can’t change last nights game we can only hope the game plays out for us tonight. I am really happy to see that the Braves have done a lot better this year than last year.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
7:25 pm
Mets announcers are ripping Castillo for his straight on, non-avoidance slide.
c jonze
August 19th, 2009
7:25 pm
Good thing Infante was covering on that play. That’s the throw Esco likes to let go into centerfield.
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
7:26 pm
Yeah B-Macc! But Man is He Slow!
KnightInATL
August 19th, 2009
7:27 pm
Come on, Mac. My grandma could have turned that into a double.
McFann Ô
August 19th, 2009
7:27 pm
Whoo-hoo!!
faninva
August 19th, 2009
7:27 pm
Wayne in Utah -
you’re right. Have a good night, all. Go Braves!
VaBraveFan
August 19th, 2009
7:27 pm
Chipper sure has been striking out alot……. is he on pace to have his first 100 k year????
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
7:28 pm
It’s good to see these guys trying to hit singles instead of swinging for the fences like they did in Atlanta
Anonymous Caller
August 19th, 2009
7:28 pm
Let’s go Esco… No dp… No dp… No dp…
Randy
August 19th, 2009
7:29 pm
Why do you post music after every post? It is idiotic.
curtis jones
August 19th, 2009
7:29 pm
Bobby Cox worshipers, please explain:
1. Why did he leave the poor-fielding, poor-hitting Kelly Johnson in the lineup for 80 games this year, with better alternatives available?
2. Why did he leave the rally-killing Jeff Franceour in the lineup for more than two years, with better alternatives available?
3. Why did he choose to retain Greg Norton in the key pinch-hitting role, with a batting average at half the Mendoza line, with far better alternatives available?
4. Why did he insist on allowing notorious fire-starter Jeff Bennett to lose key games, when there were better arms available? And why did it take an act of stupidity from Bennett himself to prevent Cox from using him?
5. Why has Cox effectively worn out a decent, surgically repaired relief corps, with the most over-use in the major leagues?
6. Why has Cox repeatedly harassed one of the 2 or 3 best offensive/defensive shortstops in baseball for his occasional lapses, while allowing about a dozen others to loaf on the field with no repercussions?
7. Why did Cox insist on playing Casey Kotchman (and occasionally batting him as high as 4th or 5th in the lineup) for an unproductive year when there were faster/more powerful alternatives available?
8. Why does Cox insist on batting an overworked Brian McCann in the cleanup position when he’s clearly unable to produce there?
9. Why has Cox not found a way to get more at-bats from David Ross, probably the best bench hitter on the entire team? (There are ways to have a 3rd/emergency catcher available…other teams do it)
10. Why does Cox insist on wearing down many players to the point of unproductivity, while keeping promising players (Kris Medlen, Boone Logan, etc.) on the bench for two weeks at a time?
11. Why did it take Cox 3 months to realize Martin Prado was a high-average impact player? Everyone on this stinkin’ blog figured it out in April and May.
12. How badly did Cox misjudge and misuse a promising young outfielder (Jordan Schaefer) who as we all knew by the end of April, was clearly not ready for the major leagues? How much damage was done to his psyche by rushing him into a situation for which he was woefully unprepeared?
Cox worshipers, answer these questions, and then summarize how a team with an overall way-above-average starting pitching staff will miss the playoffs again this year. And then tell me what a great job he has done with this team.
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
7:29 pm
Come On B-Macc!!!
Soph
August 19th, 2009
7:30 pm
Please score something here.
Anonymous Caller
August 19th, 2009
7:30 pm
Cmon Diaz..no DP please! man Mac is SLOW!
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
7:30 pm
curtis
Only one question: Are you kidding me???
VaBraveFan
August 19th, 2009
7:30 pm
must score 2 runs with the sacs full and no outs!
KnightInATL
August 19th, 2009
7:31 pm
Just an innocent question: Is it possible for players to work on their speed during the offseason? I understand that Mac is a catcher and a touch overweight, but the Braves should be encouraging him to get himself more fit during this next offseason.
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
7:31 pm
There We Go Matty-D!!!
Shamus Thacker
August 19th, 2009
7:31 pm
Shamus
I dare say that every manager makes mistakes every week.”"
Does every manager leave a valued starter in a game till he’s totally humiliated? How many times has a manager, any manager, left a pitcher in against the Muts to the point of carnage we witnessed last night? Ain’t it like, what? Never?
Soph
August 19th, 2009
7:31 pm
Matteeeeeeeeee.
Pete
August 19th, 2009
7:31 pm
Wayne in Utah:
“I think if a player is picked up within 48 hours (it could be 72, just not sure) of being DFA’d, the team picking them up assumes a prorated portion of their salary.”
Not sure Wayne cause if thats the case, then St Louis took a risk by waiting because someone else could have signed him, right? I think the 48 hour thing has to do with clearing waivers, but Im not sure either. How anyone can keep up with all these rules, designations (DFA, released, purchased contract, optioned, outrighted, 48 hours, etc. etc.) is way beyond me.
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
7:31 pm
Matty-D has been Clowning over the last week or so!
VaBraveFan
August 19th, 2009
7:32 pm
Awesome lets single them to death lol
Frank Drebin
August 19th, 2009
7:32 pm
Wow…there’s something different.
A base hit with the bases loaded. WOW
Thank God Matty Diaz is hot…cause not many other ball players on this team are right now at the moment
McFann Ô
August 19th, 2009
7:32 pm
Matt Diaz is a baseball player!
Sammy Kershaw
August 19th, 2009
7:32 pm
Ok, this is off topic and I dont post much anymore, just read, but have any of you guys seen this crazy Tommy Hanson website? Pretty freakin funny
http://tommyhanson99.wordpress.com/
NO MORE BOBBY
August 19th, 2009
7:33 pm
curtis jones – You are my hero.
Soph
August 19th, 2009
7:33 pm
Come on Churchy – gotta do something productive there.
We can’t bunt to save our life.
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
7:34 pm
Come On “O”!
Mixxo from Bonaire
August 19th, 2009
7:34 pm
JJ with his “I’m a hitter” game face!
NO MORE BOBBY
August 19th, 2009
7:35 pm
Joe – Matt Diaz is a baseball player!
Has to be the biggest goober comment made by a Braves announcer this year. He said it with such pride and its obvious he has a man crush on him.
Soph
August 19th, 2009
7:35 pm
Pschhh Mixxo, JJ’s a slugger. Shoulda let him swing away.
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
7:35 pm
Head First “O”!!!
Hee Haw I like It!
Nova Scotia Steve
August 19th, 2009
7:35 pm
Not many people blogging for this one…guess many are still disgusted from yesterday’s dibacle.
Omar SHOULD NOT be diving into first base
VaBraveFan
August 19th, 2009
7:36 pm
Omar!!! nice smack, keep it going guys
Paul Lentz
August 19th, 2009
7:36 pm
faninva……….so are you telling me that on nights that the starting pitchers suck..that the offense can just go about it’s merry way, score 4 runs and say “we did out job tonight”?
Yet when Kawakami loses 2-1 against the Mets on the Saturday after the All-Star Break………..then it’s HIS FAULT because he didnt hold a 1-0 lead?
You cant have it both ways. You cant expect the starting pitching to BAIL out the offense night after night…….YET………..say that it’s ok for the offense to not pick up the starting pitching on nights that the starting pitching needs a bail out.
I DO NOT think that it is unreasonable AT ALL to expect the offense to do more than what it did last night in the final 6 innings of the game. Last night, we need the offense to CARRY US. After all, our starting pitching has been carry us ALL SEASON LONG.
Trey
August 19th, 2009
7:36 pm
We are already up. Hopefully we keep it up.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
7:36 pm
Pete
I really don’t think anybody wanted him for full pay. After he clears, then it’s his call.
David O'Brien
August 19th, 2009
7:36 pm
Why, Omar? Why on earth would a guy who’s twice broke his hand and missed much of two seasons, slide head-first into first base? On a play when he didn’t need to, and when it actually slowed him down?
Soph
August 19th, 2009
7:37 pm
Wow. We’ll take it. Way to hustle Loafy!
Paul Lentz
August 19th, 2009
7:37 pm
I think that the Mets are having their own MELTDOWN tonight.
AndyC
August 19th, 2009
7:37 pm
Yunel hamming it up for the camera. LOL.
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
7:37 pm
Yeahhh!!! I will take the mental error!!!
Lets make this 4 run lead stick Disco-Round!
VaBraveFan
August 19th, 2009
7:37 pm
LOAF!!! hell yeah this is what i like come on Chipper Break out of it!!!
Anonymous Caller
August 19th, 2009
7:37 pm
Your turn now “superstar” Jones
NO MORE BOBBY
August 19th, 2009
7:38 pm
DOB – From the bands you list on here, something tells me you have smoked your share back in the day. Yes?
curtis jones
August 19th, 2009
7:38 pm
Wayne in Utah: Nope.
Kurdt Kobain
August 19th, 2009
7:38 pm
I want to be happy about the lead and optimistic about the clutch hitting and all. I want to make jokes about the Mets… but I can’t.
That said I’m a lot more confident in JJ than D Lowe.
Vinings Jim
August 19th, 2009
7:39 pm
DOB – my thought exactly on Omar – slowed him down a lot
Nova Scotia Steve
August 19th, 2009
7:39 pm
I guess Chipper knows 4 IS NOT ENOUGH
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
7:39 pm
Nova Scotia Braves…
We lost 50 percent of the people that were on the bandwagon prior to last weekend…
And It doesn’t bother me one bit, It just shows how bad a sports town Atlanta is…
Second worst to Florida
KnightInATL
August 19th, 2009
7:40 pm
Good time to hit our first Granny of the year right now.
VaBraveFan
August 19th, 2009
7:40 pm
Come on Mac!! clear the bases!!!
Paul Lentz
August 19th, 2009
7:40 pm
Chipper is really scuffing. That 2-1 pitch had “PUT MY ASS IN THE CHEAP SEATS” written all over it.
Still, at least he did draw a walk.
Kurdt Kobain
August 19th, 2009
7:40 pm
Grand slam here. I want to score 8 runs this inning. It will make me feel better.
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
7:40 pm
No More Bobby
LMAO at your last post
David O'Brien
August 19th, 2009
7:41 pm
4-0 lead? no way Braves could blow a 4-0 lead, is there? not in this spacious ballpark.
What’s that? Oh, yeah. Nevermind.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
7:41 pm
Bobby bashers should have been listening to the Mets broadcasters talking about what Ryan Church was telling them about Bobby.
But then again, you would think it’s a conspiracy that the entire freakin baseball world except for the MIB blog is in on.
BravesFanChris24
August 19th, 2009
7:41 pm
Good inning here. Keep it going please.
Paul Lentz
August 19th, 2009
7:41 pm
Kurdt Kobain……..I agree, a slam would be nice. Right over Francoeur’s head.
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
7:42 pm
Why Couldn’t our offense be like the angels…? Considering they have hit no slams!!!
BravesFanChris24
August 19th, 2009
7:42 pm
Infante!
Soph
August 19th, 2009
7:42 pm
We take, we take.
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
7:42 pm
Thats why I hate the brick facades…
Shamus Thacker
August 19th, 2009
7:42 pm
curtis jones, you’re my 2nd-favorite curtis, the other being (you guessed it) Lowe…
Paul Lentz
August 19th, 2009
7:43 pm
Well, at least that wild pitch removes the force. Also, it eliminates the grand slam as a possibility.
Kurdt Kobain
August 19th, 2009
7:43 pm
… not going to make a Bad News Mets joke…
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
7:43 pm
BP Should be out within 3 innings!
Paybacks A (exepletive)!
Mixxo from Bonaire
August 19th, 2009
7:43 pm
5 zip?
Get Medlen up!!!
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
7:44 pm
Is it me or has B-Macc Gotten A lot better at working counts and making pitchers waste pitches…?
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
7:44 pm
Can you guys believe that idiot manager is not taking his pitcher out now???
keylargo
August 19th, 2009
7:44 pm
I can’t believe that DUMASS Jerry Manuel is leaving in his pitcher. Doesn’t he read the blog so he’ll know what to do?
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
7:45 pm
NASTY JOB BY B-MACCC
Hell Yeah!!!
AndyC
August 19th, 2009
7:45 pm
BMAC!
Soph
August 19th, 2009
7:45 pm
Woo hoo! McFann, I know you gotta big ol’ grin on your face.
Kurdt Kobain
August 19th, 2009
7:45 pm
DAMN IT INFANTE!! THAT WAS OUR SLAM!
8 RUN INNING! TAKE THAT METS!!!!
David O'Brien
August 19th, 2009
7:45 pm
That was a BOMB. Wow. Cleared the bullpen completely.
Braveheart
August 19th, 2009
7:45 pm
Lowe has allowed 5 earned runs or more 4 times this season. John Smoltz did that six times in 2006, and four times in 2007. Tim Hudson did that 3 times in 2005, 12 times in 2006, 7 times in 2007, 4 times in 2008. In his other 22 starts, Lowe has an ERA of 3.20, and the Braves are 15-7 in those starts.
Lowe has allowed 4 earned runs or more 6 times this season. John Smoltz did that 4 times in 2007, 9 times in 2006, 9 times in 2005. Tim Hudson did that 6 times in 2008, 9 times in 2007, 19 times in 2006, 10 times in 2005.
So, let’s calm the hell down with what a bum Lowe is.
OptimisticInTexas
August 19th, 2009
7:45 pm
wow! looks like karma to me…
Vinings Jim
August 19th, 2009
7:45 pm
Damn wild pitch
McFann ;Ô;
August 19th, 2009
7:45 pm
RALLY KILLER!!!
Nova Scotia Steve
August 19th, 2009
7:45 pm
Tomahawkin’
Its kinda funny you mention that.
When I was in Atlanta a couple years ago…(we had great seats)….and I was loud as f*&k…going around high fivin people/chest bumps…you name it….People came up to me and said “Your not from here are you?”
That just added to the quietness that is Turner Field 80 percent of the time…that makes me sad.
There was one point I got up on my seat…sitting second row from the field by where the ball boy/girl sits down the right field line…and yelled “I love this team” while standing on my seat.
That was the night Francoeur made his Braves Debue..and we went on to sweep the Cubs in a four game series…
It was fun.
Frankie Knuckles
August 19th, 2009
7:45 pm
Good to see B-Mac back
Soph
August 19th, 2009
7:45 pm
lmao keylargo. My, oh my.
VaBraveFan
August 19th, 2009
7:45 pm
HELL YESSSS to bad it wasnt a grand slam but lets keep pouring it on!!!
Jurrjens4NLCY
August 19th, 2009
7:46 pm
Does this mean we’re gunna give up 16 runs?
Anonymous Caller
August 19th, 2009
7:46 pm
ALMOOOST A grand salami! WOOo!! Karma is a…
David O'Brien
August 19th, 2009
7:46 pm
When’s the last time opposing teams had eight-run innings in back-to-back games? Elias will be on that case.
Paul Lentz
August 19th, 2009
7:46 pm
What did I say about putting it over Francoeur’s head? What did I say about the wild pitch eliminating the “grand slam” possibility.
Now this is how you put a hurting on a pitcher who is on the ropes. Last night Perez was on the ropes as well.
I think it would be safe to say that the offense WOKE UP tonight.
BravesFanChris24
August 19th, 2009
7:46 pm
How’s that for an 8 run inning?
Tit For Tat!
c jonze
August 19th, 2009
7:46 pm
So Manuel should be fired now, right? 1 inning, 8 runs, no pitching change?
KnightInATL
August 19th, 2009
7:47 pm
Snowman.
keylargo
August 19th, 2009
7:47 pm
Wayne in Utah
You’re in big trouble with your 7:44. You are thinking like that keylargo guy.
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
7:47 pm
How Ironic that we spot the Melts an 8 run inning last night, and we do it tonight
The Mental led to the Floodgates!
Thank the Melts Defense for that!
Where is that “Melts Choke In 10″ Jubroni at…?
wow
August 19th, 2009
7:47 pm
Well if there was ever a perfect way to bounce back from last night awful nightmare we sure did it. There is no better feeling than putting a team away early with your ace on the mound.
Paul Lentz
August 19th, 2009
7:47 pm
keylargo………Manuel knows that the Mets season is over with. My guess is that he’s trying to let his young pitcher learn how to work his way out of jams. Plus his bullpen has been overworked. He burned through his bullpen in the previous 4 game series with the Giants.
Kurdt Kobain
August 19th, 2009
7:48 pm
At least Bobby made 1 pitching change during the 8 run inning last night. Manuel made 0. So we can all agree that Bobby is at least better than Jerry Manuel right?
Roman Gal
August 19th, 2009
7:49 pm
I guess we can hold off on calling up Riaan Spanjer-Furstenburg for a couple of days…
Paul Lentz
August 19th, 2009
7:49 pm
Braveheart……….very informative 7:45pm posting. The info you shared smacks in the face of what many on here have been saying about Derek Lowe since last night.
McFann ;Ô;
August 19th, 2009
7:49 pm
Soph–
Oh yeah!! The second that thing was hit I was like, “Oh mann…that thing is gone…”
It was CRUSHED!!! Beautiful! First multi-hit game since July 30…
Oh, and that was hit #100 for the year.
David O'Brien
August 19th, 2009
7:50 pm
No More Bobby, regarding your 7:38: What are you talking about “smoking?” Line drives? Yeah, I smoked some line drives back in Little League, no doubt. (smile)
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
7:50 pm
Shamus
You opened your mouth a bit too darned early about nobody making those sorts of mistakes …..what was it??? EVER???
How’s that crow? Need some Texas Pete on that bird?
(sorry, couldn’t resist)
BTW, these Mets announcers are critical as heck on their players! Some of you guys would love it!
Nova Scotia Steve
August 19th, 2009
7:50 pm
Are those 8 runs Bobby Cox’s fault
Rob from SC
August 19th, 2009
7:51 pm
Jeff can only hit FB’s
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
7:51 pm
Double J got away with one there
P-Lentz will address that part of Frenchy’s game
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
7:51 pm
Nova Scotia
Heck yes they are!! Any screw up in a Braves game is Bobby’s fault.
Mike S
August 19th, 2009
7:52 pm
Gotta love the irony…
Paul Lentz
August 19th, 2009
7:52 pm
McFann ;Ô;……………I told you that all you had to do was be patient. Brian McCann would come around. I have loads of faith in him.
Try not to worry about him. He’s going to be a fixture in the line-up for the next 10 years. Knowing that, be prepared to see him go through a number of slumps in the next ten years. If you get worked up over every time he gets in a slump, then you are going to stress yourself out.
dogsbrekky
August 19th, 2009
7:52 pm
Infante is greedy, he stole an rbi from McCann by taking home on the pb
Rob from SC
August 19th, 2009
7:52 pm
DOB
Any news on when Schafer will return to the Gwinnett lineup?
Thanks
NO MORE BOBBY
August 19th, 2009
7:52 pm
I bet Francoeur won’t be doing that little goober smile after tonight’s game.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
7:53 pm
key
I noticed that….back to back slams!
Nova Scotia Steve
August 19th, 2009
7:54 pm
I’m so pissed at Bobby Cox right now…
lol
Shamus Thacker
August 19th, 2009
7:54 pm
Last night was not Lowe’s fault. All pitchers have off nights, as Braveheart clearly points out. My sole problem is with his being left in so long.
Paul Lentz
August 19th, 2009
7:54 pm
By the way, I picked McCann as my catcher on my fantasy team tonight. Loading up on the points already, with 3 or 4 more at-bats left for McCann.
A couple of more JACKS would be nice for my stats.
Soph
August 19th, 2009
7:54 pm
I just replayed Mac’s homer and I couldn’t help but smile when I saw the ball sail over Francoeur’s head.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
7:55 pm
McFann
That’s a multi-hit INNING!
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
7:56 pm
Nova Scotia Brave
Word! I get Really loud at the Games…I’m Loud When I’m sober let alone when I’m tuned up…
And One Thing I never can understand Is why People leave the games in the 8th inning…?
Shamus Thacker
August 19th, 2009
7:57 pm
Wayne, I’ll have sweet barbecue sauce with that, please….
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
7:57 pm
Shamus
Do you really think that Lowe is worried about it? Man is a gamer. He probably couldn’t give a dang about his ERA. Just the way he strikes me.
I would almost guarantee that Bobby had a talk with him during or after the game. Just sayin’.
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
7:57 pm
If We Find Someway to screw this game up…I’m Gonna Pull a Jon Gruden, and Turn Blush Red!
Paul Lentz
August 19th, 2009
7:57 pm
Shamus Thacker………I agree with your 7:54pm posting.
How do you feel about the offense sharing some of the blame as well……….considering that PATHETIC performance in the last 6 innings of the game by our bats? People have to remember that it was OLIVER “walking machine and golfer ball throwing” PEREZ pitching, along with 4 innings of the SUCK A$$ Mets bullpen.
Kurdt Kobain
August 19th, 2009
7:57 pm
Jerry Manuel is probably thinking to himself: “David Wright would have hit that ball out of the park.”
lexbrave
August 19th, 2009
7:58 pm
“Bet the New York talk shows will be all over Manuel leaving him out there like that”
great tongue in cheek comment by Sutton.
Shamus Thacker
August 19th, 2009
7:58 pm
Course I don’t really consider Manuel a manager….
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
7:58 pm
Gotta Beat Santana Tomorrow…Nuff said!
Because That Marlins series is huge from a wildcard standpoint…
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
7:58 pm
Shamus
Hey, it’s OK for reasonable folks to disagree. I have to tell you though, I was laughing out loud in my truck while we were kicking their butts last inning, and thinking about you and that BBQ’d crow.
Virginia Ranger
August 19th, 2009
7:59 pm
Lodi Great song. Did youi know the people of Lodi Calif. pitched a hissy fit when theat song was eleased.
8 run lead—another one run loss if the Metsies get their 3/4 dozen
Is Parnell related to the old BoSox southpaw, Mel Parnell?
BravesFanChris24
August 19th, 2009
8:00 pm
Need that insurance ~_~
David O'Brien
August 19th, 2009
8:01 pm
Infante stung that ball. Terrible location for Parnell on so many pitches.
Jurrjens4NLCY
August 19th, 2009
8:01 pm
These Mets scare me in 2010, think of their offense compared to Phillies:
Ryan Howard > Whatever the Mets put up
Chase Utley > Luis Castillo
Jimmy Rollins < Jose Reyes
Pedro Feliz Pegan?
Shane Victorino < Carlos Beltran
Jason Werth < Jeff Francouer
The Mets easily are better than the Phils, idk. Anyone else worried?
Cheese
August 19th, 2009
8:01 pm
I want 20 runs…..by the 5th inning
Kurdt Kobain
August 19th, 2009
8:01 pm
Anybody else think Parnell looks like he’s just terrified to be out there?
Though at this point, I guess I can understand the deer-in-the-headlights look. 9-0 wow.
braveman
August 19th, 2009
8:02 pm
even with yesterday’s tough loss and the series loss with philly, we have been playing our best ball in nearly 4 years…
i think we can beat santana tomorrow if we can score three runs… i have faith.
Jurrjens4NLCY
August 19th, 2009
8:02 pm
Ryan Howard > Whatever the Mets put up
Chase Utley > Luis Castillo
Jimmy Rollins < Jose Reyes
Pedro Feliz Pagan?
Shane Victorino < Carlos Beltran
Jason Werth < Jeff Francouer
Jurrjens4NLCY
August 19th, 2009
8:03 pm
For some reason, it was posted wrong
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
8:03 pm
Save Some for Tomorrow Boyz…! I said that when the Melts were In Atlanta and we slapped this Parnell Jubroni around then our bats proceeded to turn around and go dormant against Santana the Next day waich was that Saturday Game on FOX that the offense Screwed KK yet again!
Kurdt Kobain
August 19th, 2009
8:03 pm
Maybe, but who’s going to pitch for the Mets in ‘10? Santana…
I think that Werth < Francouer is debatable.
Jurrjens4NLCY
August 19th, 2009
8:04 pm
So when Joe and Boog don’t give a sheet about Braves baseball they talk about Football, interesting…
braveman
August 19th, 2009
8:04 pm
Jurrjens4NLCY,
did you really just say that frenchy is better then worth? please tell me you are not going to be driving anywhere tonight…
Jurrjens4NLCY
August 19th, 2009
8:04 pm
braveman, Oops sorry, for reason I can’t type!
braveman
August 19th, 2009
8:04 pm
***and by worth i, of course, mean werth.
KnightInATL
August 19th, 2009
8:05 pm
Did I miss something? As SS broke to commercial screen showed Billy Wagner as due up 2nd in the inning.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
8:06 pm
Paul (I should have my head examined for posting this)
You know, you have been pretty civil for the past day or so, and because of that, can I make an observation?
I don’t think a single one of us would disagree that the offense should have done more last night. But that’s been a problem we have had all year, inconsistency. All teams go through it, even the best teams. Teams lose games for a gazillion reasons. You can sit around and analyze each one, or look at the season/month/week in more of a composite.
Going ape shyt over a 6 inning stretch, in my opinion makes no sense. Last night was a fluke pitching wise, and an example of how our offense (how many teams offense) have been this year.
Say it, then move on. You don’t need to go all CAPITALIZED on this sort of stuff. Do that, and you will get along with a lot more folks on here.
Also, it would be darned nice of you to apologize to Mitchie for your comments earlier. I don’t really care what you say to me, I have tough skin. I dare say that whatever it was that he said to you was anything beyond misspelling your name. Show a tad bit of respect for the kids who are out there risking their lives for you.
Just sayin’
Kurdt Kobain
August 19th, 2009
8:07 pm
Reid Gorecki is now my new favorite player.
Jurrjens4NLCY
August 19th, 2009
8:07 pm
On Cubs radio, they are criticizing Jim Hendry for not getting Billy Wagner. HAHAHAHA, gotta love those Cubs!
Shamus Thacker
August 19th, 2009
8:07 pm
We’re stowmpin’ a mudhole in these boys’ azzes tonight…
Jurrjens4NLCY
August 19th, 2009
8:08 pm
Reid Gorecki is really Nate McLouth, what the hell is going on??
Choppinmama
August 19th, 2009
8:08 pm
Hey McFann………I hopped on hear just to watch (read, really!) your spirits soar after the exploits of our guy so far tonight at the plate. WAHHH-HOOO!!! Nice slingshot throw for the put-out too. That’s our leader of the pack………..show ‘em how it’s done. Then…. remember how it’s done. Then…….(wait for it)…………………JUST DO IT!
Jurrjens4NLCY
August 19th, 2009
8:09 pm
I wanna see Reid play dammit!
Choppinmama
August 19th, 2009
8:09 pm
……that should be “on here”. I am not and idiot, you kno”
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
8:09 pm
Nice DP ESCO!
McFann ;Ô;
August 19th, 2009
8:10 pm
Paul–
Hey, I know…I have loads of faith in him, too. Matter of fact, I felt a big game coming on…couple more solid games and I think we cann call the slump quits.
I know he’ll have more slumps throughout his career…provided the Lasik surgery he may go for this off-season doesn’t go horribly wrong…
Wayne That’s a multi-hit INNING!
Yeah! Even better!
Choppinmama–
That was so beautiful…that homer was LONG, too…would love to know how far it flew.
That was a very good throw, as well. After that I was like, “Oo…do I smell a good game for our leader?” So far so good!
show ‘em how it’s done. Then…. remember how it’s done. Then…….(wait for it)…………………JUST DO IT!
YEAH!!
Virginia Ranger
August 19th, 2009
8:10 pm
Is this game on TV anywhere besides Atlanta and New York?
keylargo
August 19th, 2009
8:12 pm
You see there Bobby haters? The magic number is 9 not 8. Y’all jumped the gun with your criticism. Now that’s a first.
Paul Lentz
August 19th, 2009
8:13 pm
Wayne in Utah…………….after seeing blog BLOW UP last night and sprew all kind of hate towards Derek Lowe last night because of that 4th inning……I felt the need to point out the obvious: that there is plenty of blame to go around for last night, not just Derek Lowe.
I agree with you on our offense being inconsistent this year. Still, that does not immune them from criticism.
Derek Lowe can go 5-0 in his last 7 starts with an ERA under 3 prior to last night………HOWEVER, once he has a meltdown like he did in the 4th inning last night, then “its his fault that the season is over with”? Yet many on here conveniently forget about how many times the starting pitching has bailed out our “inconsistent” offense this year.
I just wanted to offer some balance to the one sided tilt of the blog last night. If the Braves are truly a play-off contender, then we need the offense to help pick up our starting pitching on nights like last night. What is so unreasonable about that?
AndyC
August 19th, 2009
8:14 pm
I would take Jayson Werth over Frenchy any day of the week.
Choppinmama
August 19th, 2009
8:14 pm
I’ll tell ‘ya, I was feeling mighty low after that game last night. We went out for a lovely, delicious anniversary dinner. Zipped home as fast as we could, flipped on the tv and was thrilled to see it 4-0, just starting the bottom of the 4th. FIgured out that something must have happened to Lowe’s hand,,,,,,,,,,he started throwing,,,,,,,,,,,then the beatdown commenced.
I was sure I was the Bad Luck Fan of the night. Sorry, guys Anyway, I’m feeling much better tonight. As is McFann.
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
8:15 pm
I never thought You could describe a dude as “Ditzy”!
Anyone care to elaborate?
Virginia Ranger
August 19th, 2009
8:15 pm
Is Gameday working for you guys. Hey what is this nonsense, bunch of hits and walks with a big lead and good D.
Lets go JJ
AndyC
August 19th, 2009
8:15 pm
McFann
I have a challenge for you. Tell me the last time BMac had a multi hit inning.
Nova Scotia Steve
August 19th, 2009
8:15 pm
Annnddd the come-back is on
(Bobby’s Fault…)
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
8:16 pm
That “Here I go!”
I still love hearing that song!
Nova Scotia Steve
August 19th, 2009
8:16 pm
I would take Jason Worth over anyone in RF for us right now
Hello???
August 19th, 2009
8:17 pm
What’s with the Braves pitchers and not being able to finish innings? They caught a bug or something?
Soph
August 19th, 2009
8:17 pm
Ok, I know I’m being paranoid but hurry up and get outta this mess JJ.
AndyC
August 19th, 2009
8:18 pm
Come on JJ. You are starting to scare me.
braveman
August 19th, 2009
8:18 pm
Jurrjens4NLCY,
ha! yeah, i obviously cant type either…or spell for that matter.
you bring up a very good point. IF healthy, the mets will have a terrific offense. they would also have a great pen with the return of a healthy putz. their problem lies with starting pitching. im not sure what the starting pitching free agent class looks like after the season but they should be able to pick up a decent starter or two. they do have money to spend…
one thing they dont have, is prospects to package in a trade that would bring a frontline starter. the santana deal has left their farm very thin…
nevertheless, they will find at least another arm to put in the rotation and with everybody coming back, they should be tough. it just seems that the chemistry on that team is flawed though imo.
the east is going to be very tough next year…
Braves fan in Nebraska
August 19th, 2009
8:19 pm
Glad to see another manager ride his pitcher through a horrendous inning…and have it work to ATL’s favor…just don’t pull a Lowe Jair!
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
8:20 pm
Paul,
I am not saying you shouldn’t say it, only that you don’t need to keep saying it and saying it and saying it. I think I have seen where you have mentioned it quite a few times today already.
Most reasonable bloggers agree that it was not all his fault. I don’t worry too much about the others.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
8:21 pm
and if you said it with 1/3 the words, more people would read it….
Nova Scotia Steve
August 19th, 2009
8:22 pm
Ay Yi Yi YI
South of the border somewhere in Sonora
There’s someone I’m longing to see
Ay yi yi yi ay yi yi yi
Steve from OH
August 19th, 2009
8:24 pm
Is it safe to blog now?
He defends his players in the public eye, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t kick some azz in the clubhouse or in his office.
Yep. Couldn’t have said it better myself. I like a lot of Shamus’ stuff, but I felt he was off the mark on that one.
McFann ;Ô;
August 19th, 2009
8:25 pm
Choppinmama–
Happy anniversary!
AndyC–
Wow…that is a challenge! I love it!
I’ll get on that right away…
lexbrave
August 19th, 2009
8:27 pm
colorado, florida and philly all winning..figures
Mixxo from Bonaire
August 19th, 2009
8:27 pm
Our girls win the LLWS title !!!!
First community EVER to win LLWS titles in baseball & softball!
That’s my girls!
bravesgrl4life
August 19th, 2009
8:27 pm
Holy crap! Did our boys have an inning like Mutts’ 4th last night? I had an HOA Board Meeting (wish I coulda skipped) and just got in. What a welcome site to see that in the 4th, only the 4th, our Bravos are up by 8. WOO HOOO!!!!!! McFann, is our mann back on track tonight? Multiple hit inning and a long gone homer? OMG!!!!
N Nine
August 19th, 2009
8:28 pm
Please say Omar Vizquel
Brandon from Warner Robins
August 19th, 2009
8:28 pm
Warner Robins is good.
Aflac Duck
August 19th, 2009
8:29 pm
Missed the answer to last nights Aflac Trivia question.
Three active players with 30+ HR against the Mets. Chipper was one, who were the other two?
Louisville brave
August 19th, 2009
8:29 pm
That hurt MY back watching Strike 3 call
Mixxo from Bonaire
August 19th, 2009
8:30 pm
Warner Robins is good. – Brandon from Warner Robins
REAL good. What a program we have for our youngsters! Unequaled anywhere!
Louisville brave
August 19th, 2009
8:32 pm
Florida now losing
Steve from OH
August 19th, 2009
8:32 pm
Does anyone have Prado’s stats since becoming the everyday 2B (roughly)?
N Nine
August 19th, 2009
8:32 pm
Damon was NOT the only player. Vizquel has more S and hits also!!!
McFann ;Ô;
August 19th, 2009
8:35 pm
bravesgrl4life–
He sure is on tonight! Hope that homer wasn’t the last of his hits…
Aflac Duck–
Pat Burrell (42)…and…oh man, it’s on the tip of my brain…Shef…field…? No…was it? Dangit…
bravesgrl4life
August 19th, 2009
8:36 pm
Nice single there by Yunel. And Matty gets hit. Are things going our way tonight or what?
BravesFanChris24
August 19th, 2009
8:37 pm
Church
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
8:37 pm
Had to step away for a few. Now I have that Tilapia on Deck!
Good lick Churchy!
bravesgrl4life
August 19th, 2009
8:38 pm
Churchy! Loved seeing French trying to get to that ball!
Braveheart
August 19th, 2009
8:39 pm
Since Prado became a starter, he has hit .329, .375, .494, scoring 25 runs, driving in 28 runs in 42 games, 40 starts. The Braves are 27-17 since he became a starter. I think the first game of the Philly sweep was his first start as a starter.
Soph
August 19th, 2009
8:39 pm
Nice to see Esco and Mac chatting.
David O'Brien
August 19th, 2009
8:39 pm
Braves already have four guys with two hits, and everyone except Jurrjens has scored a run. It’s the fifth inning.
Heath
August 19th, 2009
8:40 pm
Just finished watching “Push” … I want the pusher power so that I can make opposing pitchers deliver BP fastballs to the Braves so that we can get more games with scores like this one….
Kurdt Kobain
August 19th, 2009
8:40 pm
Do my ears deceive me? Joe Simpson complimenting Yunel Escobar? Calling him team MVP? What??
bravesgrl4life
August 19th, 2009
8:40 pm
Who would agee with me tha Yunel has a beautiful smile?
Soph
August 19th, 2009
8:41 pm
How was it Heath? Good movie?
BravesFanChris24
August 19th, 2009
8:41 pm
bravesgrl4life
August 19th, 2009
8:41 pm
11-1. this is AWESOME!!!!!!!!
AndyC
August 19th, 2009
8:42 pm
Impressive numbers for Prado as the starter. Sure hope he doesn’t have to go on the DL.
Paul Lentz
August 19th, 2009
8:42 pm
Wayne in Utah…………..when I see many on here posting in droves about how Derek Lowe sucks and how he has been a bust…….it’s hard not to want to add some balance to the insanity being posted.
Braveheart
August 19th, 2009
8:42 pm
Steve, here’s Prado:
http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/gl.cgi?n1=pradoma01&t=b&year=2009&share=2.62#181-222-sum:batting_gamelogs
ncscoots
August 19th, 2009
8:42 pm
I couldn’t help it. I absolutely HAD to see what was being “contributed” (Dentz, please note proper use of quotation marks) to the forum tonight, after watching Parnell go all deja-vu on us, LOL. Absolutely dee-licious. I think folks were still whining about last night all the way up to 6-0, LOL.
Oh wait. I had better not get too giddy over the game, in case the Mets’ offense “picks up” Parnell, LOL. HAVE mercy!
Jeffro
August 19th, 2009
8:43 pm
I wonder what Frenchy’s comments will be after THIS game.
bravesgrl4life
August 19th, 2009
8:43 pm
Huddy v. Peavey, wow. I might have to change plans for Sunday and make my first visit to the Gwinnett stadium. My ex-boss (whom I still love and adore) is the Gwinnett County Commissioner who made it happen to get the Gwinnett Braves. Think I’ll see if I can hit him up for a ticket or two.
Steve from OH
August 19th, 2009
8:44 pm
Thanks, Braveheart. Pretty damn good. Hopefully he can keep it up.
Heath
August 19th, 2009
8:44 pm
Soph -
Kinda like X-Men with a little more twist. It was alright. Dakota Fanning is 13 in that movie…she will grow up to be a real cutie.
Mixxo from Bonaire
August 19th, 2009
8:45 pm
I’m also excited to see the brew crew losing again! (knowing my unabashed fielder affection)
On a fielder melt-down watch as we speak.
Phillies I see, are raking as usual.
pryguy
August 19th, 2009
8:46 pm
FANINVA,
Thanks for your post at 6:59. Bobby Cox is not the issue with this team’s issues the past couple years. He will go down as one of the greats of all time and I appreciate all that he has done for me to enjoy winning baseball most of my childhood and into my adulthood.
Choppinmama
August 19th, 2009
8:47 pm
I wonder how much Chipper’s side is barking right about now after that checked-swing, and more than a few huge swings with no connection? Those have gotta hurt. Oh, forgot to add the high-jump for the pounder over third. Ouch.
David O'Brien
August 19th, 2009
8:48 pm
Reid Gorecki getting some love from the 100 or so friends/family who are here. He’s from Queens, as you’ve probably heard. Grew up here, lives on Long Island now.
bravesgrl4life
August 19th, 2009
8:49 pm
McFann, can you send me that word press link again? I could have sworn that I bookmarked that the other night but with this stupid new version of explorer I have, I can’t find. Thanks, lil sis.
Choppinmama
August 19th, 2009
8:50 pm
Can your sides really bark or is that a mixed metaphor? “Barking dogs” only? Where is our toe-trifler? Maybe he can offer us his opinion?
Louisville brave
August 19th, 2009
8:50 pm
Enough of this Ole bullsh&t Dorn!!
brent a.
August 19th, 2009
8:50 pm
another reason tonight and tomorrow are huge, is that we need to go into this week-end in the best shape possible.
We have florida at home, (and we need to have a crowd that rivaled Friday night’s Philly crowd – all week-end!), while Colorado and San Fran begin their tete a tete. Those two teams play each other 6 times over the next week and a half.
Our chance to make our move begins Friday. Let’s win these two first and then go get ‘em.
Go Braves!
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
8:51 pm
Paul,
Still looking for that apology to Mitchie-san and all our other service men and women that you were so…..well, we won’t go there.
Mixxo from Bonaire
August 19th, 2009
8:51 pm
….and the wheels come off……
Choppinmama
August 19th, 2009
8:52 pm
Thanks, McFann. It was a lovely, sunny Florida day, many, many, many August 18ths ago. We’re still rollin’…………
Mid Town Joe
August 19th, 2009
8:53 pm
2 out of 3 teams of mine made it to the World Series this year. Right Mixxo and Brandon?
Steve from OH
August 19th, 2009
8:53 pm
Today is Choppinmama’s anniversary? Happy anny, Choppinmama!
Steve from OH
August 19th, 2009
8:53 pm
Today is Choppinmama’s anniversary? Happy anny, Choppinmama!
keylargo
August 19th, 2009
8:53 pm
Steve from OH
I had looked up Prado’s stats for the last month yesterday and he was:
.274/.308/.425/.733
bravesgrl4life
August 19th, 2009
8:53 pm
Nice catch there, BMac
AndyC
August 19th, 2009
8:53 pm
The Nats are staging a comeback against the Rockies.
BravesFanChris24
August 19th, 2009
8:53 pm
11-2 Get bullpen up ~_~
bravos123
August 19th, 2009
8:54 pm
Do we think Braves pull this one out? Or do we blow a 9 run lead?
Choppinmama
August 19th, 2009
8:54 pm
Mixxo: that new sign will look great entering the proud town of Bonaire!
Mixxo from Bonaire
August 19th, 2009
8:55 pm
….adds sheffield to my fielder “list.”
What a POS!
ncscoots
August 19th, 2009
8:56 pm
Wayne, Dentz isn’t going down that road, brah. If he starts apologizing to everyone who deserves it of him, he’ll be posting full-time. Let’s not go there, shall we? The fact that he’s still here shows that the forum turns a blind eye to his antics, and we might as well deal with that fact.
Mixxo from Bonaire
August 19th, 2009
8:58 pm
Choppinmama –
I don’t even think we’re a town…yet, just an outcropping of Warner Robins.
I can throw a rock to the WR city limits sign. LOL
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
8:58 pm
key
Let’s hope that he gets back on track soon! That was quite a drop from his first month!
CB
August 19th, 2009
8:58 pm
thanks scoots,that summed it very well.
bravesgrl4life
August 19th, 2009
8:59 pm
Hey Mixxo, I know where Bonnaire is.
NRBQ
August 19th, 2009
8:59 pm
Time for Bobby to pull J.J.
And put it on the backs of the three most over-used relievers in MLB
Choppinmama
August 19th, 2009
9:00 pm
Steve from OH: Thanks very much. Yesterday actually, and my team arranged for such a STINKY anniversary gift. Pwewwww!
I’m taking tomight’s game as a make-up gift.
Soph
August 19th, 2009
9:01 pm
Wow. Roachy. WOW.
bravesgrl4life
August 19th, 2009
9:01 pm
Roachy!!!!
David O'Brien
August 19th, 2009
9:01 pm
Homer in three straight games for LaRoche
BravesFanChris24
August 19th, 2009
9:01 pm
Adam EM EFFIN LaRoche!
Mixxo from Bonaire
August 19th, 2009
9:01 pm
Choppinmama -
My brother-in-law teaches most of these all-star kids….when they’re in school anyway.
Yeah….Bonaire Middle School.
Vinings Jim
August 19th, 2009
9:01 pm
LaRochester!!!!!!!!!!
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
9:01 pm
Cheese Whiz!!!! There we go Roachy!!!
AndyC
August 19th, 2009
9:01 pm
WOW! That was a bomb!
BravesFanChris24
August 19th, 2009
9:03 pm
Matthew DIAZ!
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
9:03 pm
Roachy Has the Sweetest swing in a braves uni since Justice…!
There We Go Matty-D!
Steve from OH
August 19th, 2009
9:03 pm
Deep.
Vinings Jim
August 19th, 2009
9:03 pm
Holy @$#%$*$*^ #%$( !!!!!
Soph
August 19th, 2009
9:03 pm
Matteeeeeeeeeeeee! Raking!
cabravesfan
August 19th, 2009
9:03 pm
This is kinda fun
CrimeDog
August 19th, 2009
9:03 pm
This is all Bobby’s fault.
bravesgrl4life
August 19th, 2009
9:03 pm
Hubby is making me turn it now. Guess I’m relegated to gameday. I’m gonna have to hit Wal-mart for a TV to go upstairs. Can’t believe I’m paying for the Dish upgrade and can finally get the channels, but hubby has to watch Leverage. Can’t he watch that in reruns after season is over???
Mixxo from Bonaire
August 19th, 2009
9:03 pm
Mac, Rochey, Matty?
WOW!
Heath
August 19th, 2009
9:03 pm
Dang…save some for tomorrow guys.
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
9:04 pm
Save Some For Tomorrow Boyz! We’re gonna need it!
keylargo
August 19th, 2009
9:04 pm
Wayne
Prado had a career month after he became the starter. Unfortunately, I think the last month is far closer to what he will do long term. I fear for his life when the blog realizes he is not going to hit .330/.400/.500/.900. for the rest of his career.
bravefaninok
August 19th, 2009
9:04 pm
Diaz would not be outdone.
Paul Lentz
August 19th, 2009
9:05 pm
Unreal. It is so funny to see Jeff Francoeur look up and up and up and up at those homers going out of the ball park.
Matt Diaz is having a lot of success going the other way. I love how he drives the ball when he hits it the opposite way. When Francoeur would try to hit it to right field when he was with us……..if he got a hit, it was one of those “dinkers” or “punch and Judy hits”.
I think that it is safe to say: BALLGAME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
David O'Brien
August 19th, 2009
9:05 pm
Seven RBI in two nights for Diaz, five homers and 13 RBI in his last 14 games.
Five homers in seven games for LaRoche.
Mixxo from Bonaire
August 19th, 2009
9:05 pm
Talk about some 24 hr. mood swings!
CB
August 19th, 2009
9:05 pm
VJ,at least you said holy in front of it.lol
Goldenglove002
August 19th, 2009
9:06 pm
As much as i love how the braves can come back after a game like last night, lets save some of these runs for Johan. I think the braves are looking for 20 at the rate they are hitting right now
btdurden
August 19th, 2009
9:06 pm
Does this erase yesterday? Feels like payback.
keylargo
August 19th, 2009
9:07 pm
Bravesgrl4life
Tell him Leverage is on at 11 pm tonight too.
Soph
August 19th, 2009
9:07 pm
bravesgrl4life – I like Leverage too! But, I like the Braves more so no Leverage for me today.
Steve from OH
August 19th, 2009
9:07 pm
I fear for his life when the blog realizes he is not going to hit .330/.400/.500/.900. for the rest of his career.
For some reason, I think he’ll be the guy that gets a blog free pass forever if not simply for the hatred of Kelly Johnson.
Heath
August 19th, 2009
9:07 pm
Time to take out McCann/Chipper? Put in Ross at C, bring in Kelly for 2B and shift Omar to 3B?
BIOMASS
August 19th, 2009
9:08 pm
Chipper’s not looking too happy in the dugout. Even after Diaz’s HR. Man, his game has suffered lately. Why don’t they just fire Pendelton and hire Chipper’s dad, already? Get it over with.
keylargo
August 19th, 2009
9:08 pm
Mixxo are you saying they might be the Atlanta Schizophrenics?
ncscoots
August 19th, 2009
9:08 pm
fear for his life when the blog realizes he is not going to hit .330/.400/.500/.900. for the rest of his career.
Don’t tell Bobby’s Cox that, LOL. You’ll be fearing for YOUR life!
PWHjort
August 19th, 2009
9:08 pm
I don’t know if this has been posted, and it’s not funny, but I can’t help but laugh.
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=4410667
Paul Lentz
August 19th, 2009
9:09 pm
When I called on the offense to “pick it up”….I didnt quite expect them to put 14 runs on the board in 6 innings tonight.
bravesgrl4life
August 19th, 2009
9:09 pm
Thanks, keylargo and Soph. I told him I’d get sympathy on here. I’m thinking our boys are turning me bipolar – total depression this morning after that routing last night and on an extreme manic right now.
Ashley
August 19th, 2009
9:09 pm
I know I’M in a better mood because of tonight’s score, compared to yesterday’s!
David O'Brien
August 19th, 2009
9:09 pm
Chipper’s the only Brave starting position player without a hit, and he’s out of the game.
dogsbrekky
August 19th, 2009
9:09 pm
I aM still pissed off with Bobby
I love Diaz, either swings like a retard (no offence) or Barry Bonds with equal results
Supes
August 19th, 2009
9:09 pm
This just in…Adam LaRoache is indeed a 2nd half type of player!
Matty Diaz can drive you mad when he strikes out swinging wildly but he sure can drive the ball to all fields with power.
Safe bet to say that our resident Mets “expert” Anders is getting drunk tonight (to dull the pain of this UGLY loss) and won’t be making a “return” appearance on the blog.
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
9:10 pm
Heath
Co-Sign
I want D-Ross In There…We Need B-Macc well rested for tomorrow and for the Marlins series…
Jake W.
August 19th, 2009
9:10 pm
“Prado had a career month after he became the starter. Unfortunately, I think the last month is far closer to what he will do long term. I fear for his life when the blog realizes he is not going to hit .330/.400/.500/.900. for the rest of his career.’
He should be ok becuase KJ has set a pretty high standard for ups and down.
Well, offense on fire tonight. Somewhere in that dugout KK sits and wonders how must this feel to get this much offensive support. Save some for me boys.
Vinings Jim
August 19th, 2009
9:10 pm
CB – have you noticed that the posts per minute ratio is way down tonight?
Tokyo Bravo
August 19th, 2009
9:11 pm
I know it won’t happen, because by all accounts, Francouer was well liked by teammates, but I’d love someone in the postgame Braves clubhouse to say “That was a lot of fun. You just keep pounding balls into the gap. The one thing you don’t want to do is hit a home run — that’s a rally-killer- or, well, considering we hit three dingers tonight, maybe not.”
bravesgrl4life
August 19th, 2009
9:11 pm
Wow, Heath, you should be our new manager. You called it perfectly!
Supes
August 19th, 2009
9:11 pm
Steve from OH,
What is your deal with trying to “prove” that Martin Prado isn’t equal or better than Kelly Johnson as a starter at 2B? Or is this some joke you have going on with Lentz who is an avid KJ “hater”?
Heath
August 19th, 2009
9:11 pm
No reason to have LaRoche batting anywhere 4, 5, or 6 in this lineup during the second half of the year.
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
9:12 pm
” I’m thinking our boys are turning me bipolar ”
Me Too!
I’ve been like that for 3 years running!
bravefaninok
August 19th, 2009
9:12 pm
This bites ,my damn cable internet is flaking out so i can’t watch mlb.tv.
Steve from OH
August 19th, 2009
9:13 pm
Supes–huh? I like Marteen…
brewdawg
August 19th, 2009
9:13 pm
The denizens have declared, “BRAVES SEASON NOT OVER YET!!!” Tomorrow’s headline either “WE ARE ROLLING NOW!” or “THIS TIME IT’S REALLY OVER! LET’S FACE THE FACTS.”
Paul Lentz
August 19th, 2009
9:13 pm
Joe Simpson is too funny. “I know that the score is 14-2, but oh dont go away, because Gordecki is going to have his first career at-bat in the top of the 7th”.
If I was going to turn the channel, I seriously doubt that I would hold off on it just so I could watch some guy I’ve never heard of until the other day get his first career at-bat.
Mixxo from Bonaire
August 19th, 2009
9:13 pm
keylargo -
Naw….more like The Bonaire Manic Depressives!
AndyC
August 19th, 2009
9:13 pm
That is why we got rid of Frenchy. Ugly.
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
9:14 pm
Posts per Minute ratio is down because its a blow-out game therefore us bloggers don’t live and die with every pitch/call/play
Paul Lentz
August 19th, 2009
9:14 pm
Supes………I’ve been saying all along that Matt Diaz produces enough to warrant tolerating those “wild man swings” he is known for.
Vinings Jim
August 19th, 2009
9:15 pm
cabravesfan – if I ask how Nala is doing tonight, do you think I will be attacked for being a degenerate pervert as sometimes happens?
Paul Lentz
August 19th, 2009
9:16 pm
96 pitches through 6 innings. Time to use Logan and Acosta again tonight.
Heath
August 19th, 2009
9:17 pm
bravesgrl4life -
I’d take the job. Heck, I’d even take a struggling pitcher out after he just gave up 4 straight runs… oh wait.
Steve from OH
August 19th, 2009
9:17 pm
Paul Lentz–no you haven’t. You told me that Diaz is a non-tender candidate in the future when we were discussing payroll.
Still no apology to mitchie-san?
Choppinmama
August 19th, 2009
9:17 pm
Mixxo: I did change it from city to town before I posted……..haha! Some proud folks in Bonaire no matter the size.
Mid Town Joe
August 19th, 2009
9:18 pm
With this lead, maybe Lowe could come in and pick up a save.
McFann ;Ô;
August 19th, 2009
9:19 pm
bravesgrl4life–
No prob, big sis! <a href=”http://codex.wordpress.org/Using_Smilies”Here’s the link for smilies, and here’s the link for text.
Choppinmama–
You’re welcome! Glad you’re still going strong! Mom and Dad got a couple more weeks till their anniversary.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
9:20 pm
Supes
Strange as it may sound, but there are some of us on here that like BOTH Prado and KJ. Some of us even think that in the long run, KJ might be the best of the two BOTH with the bat and in the field. Not by a whole lot, mind you, but better.
Just sayin.
Roman Gal
August 19th, 2009
9:20 pm
Go get em, Reid!!
…or not.
Vinings Jim
August 19th, 2009
9:20 pm
Send Gorecki back if he can’t do better than that tonight!
cabravesfan
August 19th, 2009
9:20 pm
VJ-
I’m sure you will be
I assume she’s fine- she disappeared…
Roman Gal
August 19th, 2009
9:21 pm
I can’t wait for Huddy to get back. I love that guy!
McFann ;Ô;
August 19th, 2009
9:22 pm
Aw, poor Ried.
Hey, David Ross had moved out on deck to bat if Johnson reached. That’s cool with me if they put him in. BMac’s done his job tonight!
Thank you, BMac. Keep it up tomorrow, mann!
bravos123
August 19th, 2009
9:22 pm
Moylan, Gonzo, or Soriano gonna pitch this game?
brent a.
August 19th, 2009
9:22 pm
Looks like Arroyo took extra supplements today . . .
http://scores.espn.go.com/mlb/boxscore?gameId=290819117
Aflac Duck's Mama
August 19th, 2009
9:23 pm
Aflac Duck–
Pat Burrell (42)…and…oh man, it’s on the tip of my brain…Shef…field…? No…was it? Dangit…
So was it Sheffield that was the 3rd on the list?
McFann ;Ô;
August 19th, 2009
9:23 pm
Oh dang…I messed up the smiley link…Here–
http://codex.wordpress.org/Using_Smilies
Sorry ’bout that.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
9:23 pm
bravos123
If they need the work…
Soph
August 19th, 2009
9:23 pm
Huddy!
Anonymous Caller
August 19th, 2009
9:24 pm
bravos123
Probably.
AndyC
August 19th, 2009
9:24 pm
Gorecki stoked about his first big league AB. Pretty cool.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
9:24 pm
New nickname for Manny Acosta
Manny “Will-cost-ya”
(actually, I like the young man!)
Steve from OH
August 19th, 2009
9:24 pm
I feel a monster post filled with bad quotation marks coming on…
Heath
August 19th, 2009
9:24 pm
Since this is a blow out….I wanna tell you guys some strange stuff about me and see if you guys have any insite:
My girlfriend and I were talking about some more movies to get from Netflix, and of course, we don’t rent scary movies because she has get nightmares. This isn’t the story, just the lead in….
When I have dreams, I can control them and I can control which dreams I actually have. I actually can change a dream just like changing the station on the tv. Can anyone relate? Does anyone have any insite on this?
I know it’s weird, but my g/f and I just got to talking about it and I thought I’d ask you guys.
Supes
August 19th, 2009
9:25 pm
Wayne,
I’m with you. I like both Prado and KJ (esp. KJ going back to the outfield as a possibility in 2010).
Steve,
OK, but every chance you get you try and question people that have said that Martin deserves his shot to start at 2B. If you think about it, KJ had well over a year there…at least give Martin a half a season as a starter at 2B. He’s earned it with his play. You never know, the dude could be a career .300 hitter with a decent OPS for a 2nd baseman (not named Chase Utley).
Paul Lentz,
One of the few things we can agree on. I’m also OK with Matty Diaz “wildness” at the plate b/c he’s a good “bad ball hitter”, sort of like a poor man’s “Vlad G.”. Plus the power to all fields and the ability to drive the ball is always nice.
Tokyo Bravo
August 19th, 2009
9:25 pm
Any minor league updates today?
Goldenglove002
August 19th, 2009
9:26 pm
Actually might be a good opportunity to test out Soriano. See if his shoulder can hold up. with a 12 run lead this isn’t a place to be worried about losing
Mixxo from Bonaire
August 19th, 2009
9:26 pm
Huddy’s a HOOT!
brent a.
August 19th, 2009
9:27 pm
I always enjoy watching a guys first major league at-bat.
I still remember my brother getting me real excited to see Steve Shields MLB debut back in 198something.
Roman Gal
August 19th, 2009
9:27 pm
I love hearing the Chop in the background…
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
9:27 pm
I think I just figured it out. Folks that don’t like guys like Loaf, Diaz and KJ are probably fantasy folks (not that there is anything wrong with fantasy baseball). They tie their feelings to what have you done for me in your last AB.
Tomahawk Choppers
August 19th, 2009
9:27 pm
Damn Bobby get Acosta out of there. THe man got through one-third of an inning without a baserunner and has thrown more strikes than balls. Let the guy leave on a high note for once.
Steve from OH
August 19th, 2009
9:28 pm
Supes–I’ve been saying that Marteen has earned his shot for a while. I asked the question that I’m sure sparked this whole thing out of sheer curiosity, nothing more.
And I’m not taking any shots at Marteen. People mistakenly label me a Marteen hater because I’m a KJ fan. Not true.
Mixxo from Bonaire
August 19th, 2009
9:29 pm
Choppinmama -
Oh yeah Choppy, proud indeed! Now we have our boys going Friday at 5:00 in Williamsport.
Talk about stoked!
Phew!
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
9:30 pm
If KJ turns into a 280/350/425 guy w/ 18 dingers, then that makes Prado one of the BEST utility guys in the NL. Win-win!
Choppinmama
August 19th, 2009
9:30 pm
I’ll say it before McFann tonight…. ‘night all. The game looks safe enough to leave it in youse’s hands.
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
9:30 pm
Heath
Co-Sign…I switch stations in my dreams too but I too bad I have no control of what station it turns to…
CrimeDog
August 19th, 2009
9:30 pm
They didn’t tell us how far the balls flew. I’m outraged.
JayDubu
August 19th, 2009
9:32 pm
As muc as I hate to admit it, the Phillies are becoming a well rounded team. Good pitching, good defense, and power galour.
Steve from OH
August 19th, 2009
9:32 pm
I will say that I think Marteen will be hard-pressed to match KJ’s 2007 numbers over a full season, but I’d be lying if I said I thought KJ was a sure thing to repeat that performance, too.
Soph
August 19th, 2009
9:32 pm
That’s pretty freaky Heath.
It’s pretty cool too though. Must be nice – wish I could control my dreams like that.
McFann ;Ô;
August 19th, 2009
9:33 pm
Yeah, they didn’t tell how far they flew! I waited all that time…
I don’t remember if it was Sheffield, Mr. Duck…it mighta been…
Night, Choppinmama!
Supes
August 19th, 2009
9:34 pm
Steve from OH,
Fair enough then. My whole argument for Prado over KJ at 2B right now is what I just said…KJ had well over a full season at 2B to prove that he should be the everyday 2nd baseman and didn’t get the job done. Prado has had just what…about eight weeks at 2B starting? Unfortunate that we don’t know what’s happened to him with the dizziness, etc, it could be serious or not. I think Prado has earned at least a half a season worth of starts at 2B to prove that he can take over that job full time.
As far as KJ…I do think that next year we would be OK with a KJ/Diaz platoon in LF if need be. That’s why I am not ready to give up on KJ as a Brave, but if he’s released or traded in the off-season I won’t be torn up about it, b/c KJ has had plenty of chances to earn playing time here in ATL.
Wayne,
I’m an avid fantasy baseball player and I like LOAF, Diaz and KJ (just not on my fantasy team). I will say this…I have LaRoache at 1B and Infante as my “utility” slot guy, I did have Prado but I’ve dropped him b/c of the health issue. I also have Tommy Hanson in my SP and Tim Hudson on my DL waiting to get back…so I’m showing plenty of “Braves” the love in fantasy baseball this year. My team is in 2nd place right now in my league, so I’m representing Braves fans (it’s a Braves fans league) OK.
Paul Lentz
August 19th, 2009
9:34 pm
Supes……….Diaz is the kind of hitter you just have to be patient with. He’s shown that he can drive the ball. You just have to deal with his “crazy man swings” that pop up from time to time.
I was preaching back in May for Diaz to replace Francoeur in right. I can remember being bombarded with replies that “there is no sense in benching Francoeur for Diaz because Diaz isnt an everyday player”.
Anders
August 19th, 2009
9:34 pm
You know what I like about these blow out type games? It gives me a chance to see some of the Mets backup players. Oh wait. {:
Anders
August 19th, 2009
9:34 pm
You know what I like about these blow out type games? It gives me a chance to see some of the Mets backup players. Oh wait. {:
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
9:35 pm
Steve’s 9:32pm
My sentiments exactly.
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
9:37 pm
Boog Has A good Point about KK’S start tomorrow
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
9:37 pm
Supes
Not pointing that one at anyone in particular.
Anders
August 19th, 2009
9:38 pm
Did I ever mention that I stutter?
brent a.
August 19th, 2009
9:38 pm
wjones:
you may not still be around; but, your 7:18 post cracked me up.
See: The University of Georgia Men’s basketball team. The decision to keep Dennis Felton cost that University over $1 million, just because the team “got hot” for 3 days.
Paul Lentz
August 19th, 2009
9:39 pm
Wayne in Utah………..your 9:30pm posting is a BIG IF.
Heath
August 19th, 2009
9:39 pm
Soph -
It is freaky, I know. I’ll be in the middle of a dream and think, “this is boring, let’s try….”
I have no idea how I do it, or if that is even a good thing. What’s even more bizarre about it, is that I actually remember doing it and can share this with people. Most people don’t recollect their dreams, much less recollect what I do… strange, I know.
bravesgrl4life
August 19th, 2009
9:39 pm
Thanks, little sis. I finally figured out what to do – Favorites not bookmark.
Night Choppinmomma, and happy anniversary!
brent a.
August 19th, 2009
9:39 pm
Re: The Phillies
. . . and speed . . .
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
9:39 pm
What Happened to Shawn Green…?
Anders
August 19th, 2009
9:40 pm
Mets taking live questions on the air during the game. Never a good sign
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
9:40 pm
Uggghhh Oh!
That was Do Or Die…
Efrim
August 19th, 2009
9:41 pm
Not sure if this had been posted but Keith Law ranked the recent MLB draft. His Top Five were:
1. Arizona
2. Minnesota
3. Boston
4. Colorado
5. San Francisco
His Bottom Five were:
1. Toronto
2. NY Mets
3. Texas
4. Tampa Bay
5. Atlanta
This is what he had to say about Atlanta:
Mike Minor at No. 7 overall was a huge reach, and Atlanta — normally one of the strongest and shrewdest-drafting teams — went ultra-conservative; the Braves didn’t take a player under the age of 21 until the seventh round, and their second pick, David Hale, had lousy results in a bad conference the past two springs despite plus stuff. Atlanta, like the other four teams on this “worst” list, spent under $4 million in the top 10 rounds in a year in which the median figure was around $5 million, and after overpaying Minor, they didn’t give anyone more than Hale’s $405,000.
McFann ;Ô;
August 19th, 2009
9:41 pm
Heath When I have dreams, I can control them and I can control which dreams I actually have.
Dang! I wish I had that mind power! Sometimes my dreams will change randomly in the middle of one, but I have no control over it unless I’m half awake…
Wish I could control ‘em, though…then I wouldn’t dream about plays at the plate so much!
Goldenglove002
August 19th, 2009
9:42 pm
Tokyo Brave, Not to much going on, but here’s a good wrap up of todays MILB Braves games.
AAA: Brooks Conrad went 3-5 with a HR and Clint Sammons went 2-4 with 2 solo shots in Gwinnett’s 7-4 win
AA: Heyward went 1 for 5 with a solo shot, Freeman 0-5.
A: Brandon Beachy gave up 2 runs with 7 K’s and 2 BB’s in Myrtle Beach’s 1st game of a doubleheader. 1B Gerardo Rodriguez hit his 18th HR of the season in game two. Rome did not play
Rookie: Lefty Chris Masters continues to dominate with Danville, giving up a respectable 1 run in 5 innings with 7 K’s and 2 BB’s bring his K/BB to 71/6 with a 1.69 ERA.
Paul Lentz
August 19th, 2009
9:42 pm
Tomahawkin…….Shawn Green flamed out. The Dodgers gave him that huge contract and the Mets were foolish enough to trade for him. He wouldnt have been in the big leagues his last 2 years if he wasnt under contract for so much money. Dude lost a lot of power the last 4 or 5 years of his career.
McFann ;Ô;
August 19th, 2009
9:43 pm
I do remember a lot of my dreams…but there are so many that I don’t remember that I wish I did, and so many that I do remember that I wish I didn’t…
Soph
August 19th, 2009
9:43 pm
Heath -
That’s pretty interesting though. I usually can’t remember 75% of the dreams I have. You should research it online.
Mid Town Joe
August 19th, 2009
9:43 pm
Shawn Green info:
http://www.nypost.com/seven/02282008/sports/mets/former_met_enjoying_green_er_pastures_99562.htm
McFann ;Ô;
August 19th, 2009
9:44 pm
Tomahawkin I switch stations in my dreams too but I too bad I have no control of what station it turns to…
Frank from KS (now living in CO)
August 19th, 2009
9:44 pm
Hillybilly in reply to your post from last blog…
Hell, there’s still some Cardinal fans still upset about losing the 85 WS that year to the Royals, and *The Call* by Don Dekinger(sp) on the safe call on Jorge Orta.
Oh well…….$#@! happens. All I know is…I wasn’t too upset with that series….(LOL).
Steve from OH
August 19th, 2009
9:45 pm
Efrim–yep, I saw that. Still fired up that we didn’t go for 500K more and get Shelby Miller.
Paul Lentz
August 19th, 2009
9:45 pm
Giants-Reds 0-0, top of the 8th.
Frank from KS (now living in CO)
August 19th, 2009
9:45 pm
Correction:
Hillbilly*
Heath
August 19th, 2009
9:45 pm
McFann -
There’s one down side to being able to control about what I actually dream…I can’t plead insanity for some of the stuff that goes on up there….
Soph
August 19th, 2009
9:46 pm
I do have dreams about games – baseball, basketball, football if I don’t know the outcome before I go to bed. Like if the Braves are playing on the west coast and I can’t finish the game, I’ll dream about the outcome.
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
9:46 pm
P-Lentz
Shawn Green Was a Monster! I’m calling it right now that he was an avid PED HGH user and I think he used the Deca-Durabolin Steroids that Pay-Rod used
Those are the kind that doesn’t make you look like a wrestler but they do make you firm!
Efrim
August 19th, 2009
9:47 pm
So……Cliff Lee threw a CG and struck out 11? Yeah, building a roster to beat that team in 2010 should be fun.
BravesFanChris24
August 19th, 2009
9:47 pm
I don’t have Braves feed, I have Mets.
So whoever said Boog had a good point about KK’s start tomorrow, can you explain to me what he said?
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
9:47 pm
I get Dreams After the first few times I play Madden or any sports game because the graphics are so lifelike now
That Should’ve been a Triple Ryan!!!
Soph
August 19th, 2009
9:47 pm
Have a day Churchy. Rub it in Manuel’s face.
McFann ;Ô;
August 19th, 2009
9:47 pm
Oh, and I am working on finding the last time BMac had two hit in one inning (if ever)…hard to do that and watch the game at the same time, though, since the TV and computer are in differ’nt rooms and other people want to use the computer at times…
But I’ve gone through 2006. Found a game where he made two outs in one inning–July 16th, 2006 against the Padres. He made outs 1 and 3. He did hit a 3-run homer in that game, though. Braves won 10-5.
More to come…
BravesFanChris24
August 19th, 2009
9:47 pm
Church
Soph
August 19th, 2009
9:48 pm
Little Med pinch-hitting. I love it.
Mixxo from Bonaire
August 19th, 2009
9:48 pm
What’s that big “69″ for in the OF?
Oh….nevermind.
shutup! LOL
keylargo
August 19th, 2009
9:48 pm
StevefromOH & Supes
I’m definitely a KJ fan simply because of all the heat he has taken from the blog for being a team player. BMac is slumping and a lot of people are on him because he has not produced in the clean up slot. Same thing happened with KJ in the leadoff position. He just kept his mouth shut and lead off because we didn’t have anyone else – he took one for the team.
Then KJ gets DLed for his wrists (both received cortisone injections) and no Prado lovers would even acknowledge he had an injury. Just that he was no good and should be released.
Martin had a great deal to do with the Braves success and should be the starter for now. But he has come back to earth. It was ironic that SteveOH asked about his stats and I still had them written down from yesterday when I looked them up.
Oh, and by the way, I spent about 30 minutes one day writing in Martin Prado for the All Star game.
CrimeDog
August 19th, 2009
9:48 pm
Stupid Bobby pinch hitting a pither. Dumb donk.
brent a.
August 19th, 2009
9:49 pm
Nats blow opportunity in 7th . . . and Giants now leading Reds in 8th
CrimeDog
August 19th, 2009
9:49 pm
pitcher*
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
9:49 pm
I hate Having Dreams about Sankes!!!
I’m Not some Rocket, Uggh Some Rocket-Ship or Something but I heard that there is a hidden Connotation behind that
McFann ;Ô;
August 19th, 2009
9:49 pm
Heath–
Ah-ha,…yeah. That would be a problem…
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
9:49 pm
I meant to say Snakes!
jeffrey d
August 19th, 2009
9:50 pm
Is it just me, or does the patch on the Mets’ sleeves look remarkably like the Sam’s Club logo?
brent a.
August 19th, 2009
9:50 pm
soriano loosening in the pen
Steve from OH
August 19th, 2009
9:50 pm
KL–It mostly just amazes me how people somehow think KJ sucked last year and the year before. It’s mind-boggling.
McFann ;Ô;
August 19th, 2009
9:50 pm
Tomahawkin–
I hate having dreams about spiders! Snakes I cann handle…spiders, no way…
Efrim
August 19th, 2009
9:50 pm
Efrim–yep, I saw that. Still fired up that we didn’t go for 500K more and get Shelby Miller.
Steve from OH, I’m heated we spent under 4 million on the Rule IV draft, yet I didn’t see any significant international signings. But hey, it’s not my money. I just hope they spend more next year. They’ll most likely have more picks in the first three rounds(plus supplemental), so I’d expect them to spend quite a bit more.
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
9:51 pm
Damn D.O.B. it seems like the Planes From LaGuardia are louder than they were at Shea…They Must’ve built Bailout Ballpark more in line with the Flight path of LaGuardia…?
McFann ;Ô;
August 19th, 2009
9:51 pm
jeffrey d–
Domino’s Pizza…that’s what it makes me think of.
But y’all know me and pizza.
bravesgrl4life
August 19th, 2009
9:51 pm
With ya, McFann. No spiders.
Soph
August 19th, 2009
9:51 pm
I have dreams about spiders at least once a month. I always wake up jumping out of bed. Not fun.
Heath
August 19th, 2009
9:52 pm
McFann -
So, I can count on you and the rest of the good people of the blog to keep my secret?
Vinings Jim
August 19th, 2009
9:52 pm
Go Gorecki!
BravesFanChris24
August 19th, 2009
9:52 pm
REID GORECKI!
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
9:53 pm
McFann
I hate Spiders Period…
One Of My First Dreams was about the Movie Arachnophobia
If I even feel a spiderweb on me I Tripp Like “Smokey” On Friday
There We Go Reid!
Mixxo from Bonaire
August 19th, 2009
9:53 pm
Attaboy Reid !!
David O'Brien
August 19th, 2009
9:53 pm
first hit and RBI for Gorecki, who got some applause from his peeps
McFann ;Ô;
August 19th, 2009
9:54 pm
Good for Ried!! That was fun!
AndyC
August 19th, 2009
9:55 pm
Wat to go Reid!
Vinings Jim
August 19th, 2009
9:55 pm
Heath – already on Facebook
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
9:56 pm
I can’t Believe Boog knew the David Justice book of check swinging
Soph
August 19th, 2009
9:57 pm
Yay for Reid. I like the switcheroo they pulled on him too.
Anders
August 19th, 2009
9:57 pm
McFann- Dead on with the Domino’s comparison. I’ve said that all year. Could the patch be any less expressive? I guess they had to let the graphics group go after the Madoff affair.
JayDubu
August 19th, 2009
9:58 pm
I like KJ’s hustle. I hope that he can turn it around with the Braves!
Anders
August 19th, 2009
9:58 pm
We took Frenchy so you guys clipped Gorecki?
jeffrey d
August 19th, 2009
9:58 pm
Haha, Domino’s too (but I did not know that about you and pizza, McFann)
That’s even worse than the Homestar Runner the Padres have on their sleeves
http://rds.yahoo.com/_ylt=A0WTb_mUrYxKE0gALZujzbkF/SIG=12pehr4gl/EXP=1250819860/**http%3A//www.softpicks.net/screenshots/Homestar-Runner-Desktop-Budd.jpg
Paul Lentz
August 19th, 2009
9:58 pm
Tomahawkin………..I have no doubt that Shawn Green (and a majority of Major Leaguers) used HGH or some form of steroids. Dude definitely wasnt a 49 homer kind of guy.
HGH not only helps with muscle recovery during weight lifting, but it also helps with reflexes and being able to see better. You dont have to be “bulky” to hit home runs. If you have quick hips and wrists, you can hit home runs.
Jake W.
August 19th, 2009
9:58 pm
“I hate having dreams about spiders! Snakes I cann handle…spiders, no way…”
I’m with you, spiders creep me out for some reason, can’t stand them but snakes I don’t have a problem with at all.
BravesFanChris24
August 19th, 2009
9:59 pm
Soriano in to sharpen it up.
Soph
August 19th, 2009
9:59 pm
Martin, Infante, & JJ are gonna be at my local Publix on Saturday. Hopefully, I can get myself outta bed early and go see them.
Jurrjens4NLCY
August 19th, 2009
10:00 pm
For any Reid Gorecki fans: I caught his first hit and as soon as I upload it, I will post the link.
JayDubu
August 19th, 2009
10:00 pm
DOB, What’s the status on Soriano?
Anders
August 19th, 2009
10:00 pm
Soriano in a 15 – 2 game? yeah, he’s not gonna get all pissy over this.
jzdc
August 19th, 2009
10:01 pm
Only 15 runs!? FIRE BOBBY COX!
Jake W.
August 19th, 2009
10:01 pm
“I have dreams about spiders at least once a month. I always wake up jumping out of bed. Not fun.”
Good to know i’m not the only one to have those dreams and jump out of bed looking like a fool only to find out that it was a dream.
unbelievable
August 19th, 2009
10:01 pm
even when you think Bobby cant make another mistake he decides to use our closer in a 15-2 game.
David O'Brien
August 19th, 2009
10:01 pm
Good news on Prado:
Diagnosed with “exertional headaches.” He’ll be treated with anti-inflammatory medication and is day-to-day, pending the elimination of the symptoms.
Braves think he’ll avoid DL. He’ll rejoin the team in Atlanta.
Heath
August 19th, 2009
10:01 pm
VJ -
Geeee, thanks.
bravesgrl4life
August 19th, 2009
10:02 pm
Okay, Soriano, there is no need to give them anything. No more walks, dammit.
Soph
August 19th, 2009
10:02 pm
Jake – nope you aren’t. I always feel stupid afterwards but you’d think I was on fire the way I jump up and start hopping around in the dark.
McFann ;Ô;
August 19th, 2009
10:03 pm
bravesgrl4life–
Yeah…they’re just…elgth! I have one living in my window, which is right next to my drawing desk, so when I’m drawing that shade goes down! She’s an extra icky-looking one!
Heath–
Oh…yeah! You cann uh…count on me! Hu, I cann keep a secret!
Tomahawkin–
Oh man…I hate walking through webs! NASTY!
Oh, and I’ve fallen asleep with the iPod on and earbuds in, and once I woke up in the middle of the night to “Boris the Spider”…not the best choice for nighttime listening!
Anders–
Haha! Seriously…and it’s so BIG!
Man…I’m hungry, too…let’s order a pizza. Papa John’s or Buck’s?
bravesgrl4life
August 19th, 2009
10:03 pm
Thanks for the update DOB. Glad to hear it’s not untreatable.
Heath
August 19th, 2009
10:03 pm
First I side track the blog with talk of grillin’, and now dreams…
DOB, don’t be mad at me.
RHR
August 19th, 2009
10:03 pm
That is GREAT news on Prado. Glad to hear it.
Supes
August 19th, 2009
10:03 pm
Congrats to Reid G. for his 1st hit and RBI, great that he got to do that in his hometown area and have a lot of family/friends there at the game. The blowout definitely helped get him in the game and provide the opportunity.
BravesFanChris24
August 19th, 2009
10:04 pm
Good news indeed for Prado.
ChurchMan
August 19th, 2009
10:04 pm
Soriano last pitched 5 games ago so I don’t mind this. If he has to work tomorrow it’ll be nice to know he pitched recently rather than almost a week ago.
Vinings Jim
August 19th, 2009
10:04 pm
why am I hearing a loud dog barking?
Rob from SC
August 19th, 2009
10:04 pm
Soriano looks good. Needs to locate the fastball like he was doing in the first half and he will be fine.
dogsbrekky
August 19th, 2009
10:05 pm
Who is Keith Law
Jurrjens4NLCY
August 19th, 2009
10:05 pm
Reid Gorecki’s first hit: http://knoble.mlblogs.com/archives/2009/08/reid_goreckis_first_hit.html
Vinings Jim
August 19th, 2009
10:05 pm
Heath – as long as it’s not politics, no problems (and calling people very bad names)
Soph
August 19th, 2009
10:05 pm
Whew – glad it’s not something more serious for Marteen.
Anonymous Caller
August 19th, 2009
10:05 pm
Thank God Prado is “OK”…might get him some strong dose of Excedrin
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
10:05 pm
Ballgame…
The Offense better not go back into “Creep Mode” or this blog will be in Full Swing of bashing the “Feast or Famine” Offense
RHR
August 19th, 2009
10:06 pm
BALLGAME!
Soph
August 19th, 2009
10:06 pm
Great game Bravos. Way to come back after a tough one.
dogsbrekky
August 19th, 2009
10:06 pm
Vinings JIm
You must be in Quogue, that is my male (bitch) border collie,barking like a little girl cause he doesnt like his dinner…………….. squirrel stew….. go figure
Jurrjens4NLCY
August 19th, 2009
10:06 pm
My mom had what Prado had. The Doctor said it was caused from stress and dehydration.
bravesgrl4life
August 19th, 2009
10:06 pm
Lately at my house it’s not been spiders but scorpions. Sat down in the bathroom one night and there on the wall was one of the small Georgia scorpions. Hey, I’m a Scorpio, but I do NOT relate to my sign critter.
Frankie Knuckles
August 19th, 2009
10:06 pm
Fantastic news about Prado. Thx for the update bro.
Vinings Jim
August 19th, 2009
10:07 pm
Good win all – enjoy the evening , unlike last night
Rob from SC
August 19th, 2009
10:07 pm
We need to make our WC move this weekend. We play the Marlins while the Rockies play the Giants. If we win then we will gain on two teams.
BravesFanChris24
August 19th, 2009
10:07 pm
Hopefully tomorrow goes well.
Tonight was well enjoyable.
bravesgrl4life
August 19th, 2009
10:08 pm
Alrighty, then. Game over. And I’m heading to bed. Good night all. Thanks again, McFann. A good night for your guy. How different are we all feeling tonight than this time last night? Way to GO GET ‘EM BRAVES!!!!
Jake W.
August 19th, 2009
10:08 pm
Good news on Prado DOB, good to know its not something serious.
Soriano finishes it up, on to the highly anticipated KK and Santana rematch.
Heath
August 19th, 2009
10:08 pm
I’ve not brought up or participated in any of those types topics on here and I’ve been nice to everyone, even some of the blog’s most polarizing characters. This is far as I can remember anyway.
Anders
August 19th, 2009
10:08 pm
Dogsbrekky- How long you been out in Quogue
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
10:08 pm
McFann
“Oh, and I’ve fallen asleep with the iPod on and earbuds in”
I do that On a nightly basis… I have to chill out to my “Quiet Storm” before I go to sleep
Soph
August 19th, 2009
10:08 pm
Eek, I’d freak out bravesgrl4life. Scorpions? YUCK.
ChurchMan
August 19th, 2009
10:09 pm
Marlins have 3 more innings to get 2 more hits and stretch their consecutive games with at least 10 hits to 15 games
dogsbrekky
August 19th, 2009
10:09 pm
bravesgril – those critters are good eating, just cook ‘em 1st pluuuueaaaseeeeeeeeeeeee
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
10:09 pm
“I’ve been nice to everyone, even some of the blog’s most polarizing characters”
You Can bet your bottom-dollar that I’m one of them…
Mixxo from Bonaire
August 19th, 2009
10:10 pm
Good ballgame. Good news on Martin. Lets get to Santana early tomorrow.
Steve from OH
August 19th, 2009
10:10 pm
HGH not only helps with muscle recovery during weight lifting, but it also helps with reflexes and being able to see better. You dont have to be “bulky” to hit home runs. If you have quick hips and wrists, you can hit home runs.
I promised myself I wouldn’t respond to you anymore because you’re such an idiot…but please cite your source for this. I beg you.
yall are crazy
August 19th, 2009
10:10 pm
Great to see the Braves pound the Mets after such an awful loss.
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
10:10 pm
I always Thought worms looked chewy…? Not that I’d like to experiment…
Soph
August 19th, 2009
10:10 pm
Where was Mitchell tonight? He would’ve been happy with today’s outcome.
Random
August 19th, 2009
10:10 pm
DOB (August 19th, 2009 5:52 pm): “detroitchirs: No, but that Brendan Benson CD, and one by a group called [blah blah blah]. . . “
Key.
Riced.
Fock That Siht.
Soph
August 19th, 2009
10:11 pm
Ewwww T’Hawkin.
Jurrjens4NLCY
August 19th, 2009
10:11 pm
Braves gotta win tomorrow!
Anders
August 19th, 2009
10:12 pm
Steve from Ohio- Fight the urge to respond. I do. He’s just a wind bag.
jeb
August 19th, 2009
10:13 pm
A friend, who is a chiropractor, said that as he watched Prado the last few days – that he thought Prado had a “deep” pinched nerve. One that was inflamed.
That his swing would aggravate it and would cause an immediate muscle spasm that would cause an immediate headache.
He stated Prado needed anti-inflammatory meds, muscle relaxers, and chiro- adjusments.
'splain this to me
August 19th, 2009
10:13 pm
Soriano, a few nights back, was in the 80’s with his fastball. Why did he pitch tonight? Utter amazement at how BC/RMc run the ‘pen.
lexbrave
August 19th, 2009
10:14 pm
2 complete games in 4 starts for cliff lee..pitched 7 and 8 innings in the other two.
no complete games for all of the braves starters combined..
McFann ;Ô;
August 19th, 2009
10:14 pm
GREAT GAME!!
jeffrey d (but I did not know that about you and pizza
I LOVE IT!!
Pepperoni pizza is the greatest edible thing on the planet!
LOL at the Padres thing…the link didn’t work for me, but I copied and pasted it into my address box and I came up with the Homestar Runner picture…funny.
Good news on Prado…I guess…what’s an “exertional headache”?
You’re welcome, bravesgrl4life! Yeah, great night for BMac! Hope this continues!
Scorpions are nasty, too…
Tomahawkin–
I just put mine on shuffle and let it go…sometimes I have dreams with a song playing in the background and then wake up to that song playing on the ‘Pod. Good stuff…
Night, all!!!
NO MORE BOBBY
August 19th, 2009
10:14 pm
Secret to Bobby goof proof baseball?
Score! Score! Score!
Anders
August 19th, 2009
10:15 pm
jeb- HD TV sure is amazing -isn’t it?
Kate
August 19th, 2009
10:16 pm
Brian Jordan just attempted to sing on braves live. anyways, good night for the bravos
Soph
August 19th, 2009
10:16 pm
LaRoche is very “Chipper-like” in his interviews.
Frankie Knuckles
August 19th, 2009
10:17 pm
jeb – I’m guessing your friend is capable of providing those goods and services as well.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
10:17 pm
Paul,
So are we to take it that your avoidance of the question of apologizing to Mitchie-san means that you are not going to? At least be man enough to say so.
But, as far as I am concerned, you will be avoided and you will have your buttons pushed as often as time will permit if you don’t. It will be my mission to get you banned permanently.
Man up.
jeb
August 19th, 2009
10:18 pm
Anders-
Indeed – can’t hardly watch TV without any more!
cabravesfan
August 19th, 2009
10:18 pm
VJ-
well, we know it’s not your ca…er…dog
Great win tonight!
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
10:18 pm
BTW, can you believe it? If not for Bobby, we would have won 20-0 tonight.
Anders
August 19th, 2009
10:19 pm
Gorecki in an understandable moment of excitement over his first hit yelled in the locker room “Lets all celebrate. The bubble tea is on me tonight!”
Anders
August 19th, 2009
10:20 pm
jeb- You understand my sarcasm -right?
Heath
August 19th, 2009
10:20 pm
Tomahawkin -
Only one person has been out of line/mean to me on here. It was strange why that person was and instead of arguing or getting mean myself, I just suggested that he and I end communication between the two of us, and so far…
jeb
August 19th, 2009
10:20 pm
Frankie Knuckles
Of course! That’s what he does (LOL!!)
jeb
August 19th, 2009
10:21 pm
Anders,
got it……
Vinings Jim
August 19th, 2009
10:21 pm
dogsbrekky – I did grow up on Long Island, so maybe I’m tapping into something from the past
Kate – and kudos for BJ doing a song from Annie Get Your Gun
Vinings Jim
August 19th, 2009
10:23 pm
cabravesfan – way too loud for… – hey, wait a minute – you did it again – next time I am aimlessly wandering the West Coast I will bring her out there to teach you a lesson
Anders
August 19th, 2009
10:23 pm
Wayne in Utah- What happened between Lentz and Mitchie-san? Normally I just pass on this stuff but you’ve been relentless on it and knowing your always fair on here I’m guessing it was serious.
Necromancer
August 19th, 2009
10:25 pm
Hey, everybody!
Nice little payback on the Mutts’s tonight, eh?
Man, ole man…now..I’m hoping Kenshin will have a good game tomorrow..
Santana’s only human, ya know?
RHR
August 19th, 2009
10:25 pm
As SS broke to commercial screen showed Billy Wagner as due up 2nd in the inning.
I saw that…that was hilarious.
cabravesfan
August 19th, 2009
10:26 pm
VJ-
go ahead- Nala could use a snack
Keith Law Sucks!!!!!
August 19th, 2009
10:26 pm
The Braves draft was amazing. Mike Minor is a great college lefty that will be in the majors by 2011. Keith Law doesn’t know what he is talking about. No one else has this opinion about Minor or the Braves draft!!!!!!!!
jeffrey d
August 19th, 2009
10:26 pm
haha, I saw them showing Wagner and his .000 average due up too. Is he even on the active roster?
Heath
August 19th, 2009
10:27 pm
Anders -
I didn’t even bother going back the other day to read about it either…I got on late and most of the bad stuff had been deleted anyway. All I know is that we were defending our honoray lil sis McFann… I’m starting to get curious as well.
Anders
August 19th, 2009
10:28 pm
jeffrey d- Wagner will be activated Friday is the report. Mets hoping to trade him. Sounds like the Red Sox are interested.
Vinings Jim
August 19th, 2009
10:29 pm
cabravesfan – that is just wrong… and thank God Nala is much sweeter than you are
jeffrey d
August 19th, 2009
10:31 pm
Anders – last I heard (which was awhile ago) Wagner was not happy with the Mets at all. If he’s not traded, will he still play for the Mets? Or sit out and pout a la Stephon Marbury?
JeanE
August 19th, 2009
10:32 pm
We came, We saw, We kicked their A—-!!! How do you like that, Mets? Is Jeffy smiling now? Sorry, that feels so good. Now go out & win tomorrow night, too b/c the rest of the compeitition keeps winning, darn them!! Major props to Matty D, LaRoche who’s back where he belongs, Omar, Churchy et al, great game guys!
Necromancer
August 19th, 2009
10:32 pm
Anders
It got pretty ugly in here a couple of nights ago. Lentz had a melt down of sorts. He managed to piss off almost the whole entire blog.
DOB banned him, and not 10 minutes later, there he was again.
It was pretty heinous…
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
10:33 pm
Nite All, I will Still be reading but It’s Time to watch old “Martin” on Youtube
Space Monkey
August 19th, 2009
10:33 pm
Wonderful performance by the offense. I’m so happy they gave Cox a game he couldn’t F up. Of course he still wrecked his pitching staff. Why on earth did we use 4 pitchers in this game.
Vinings Jim
August 19th, 2009
10:33 pm
Heath – just sent you a message elsewhere
Anders
August 19th, 2009
10:34 pm
BTW- I heard Frenchy getting interviewed on the radio earlier today. Talking about living in NYC was hilarious. He said living on the 27th floor and having to get up and take the dogs down to the street at 6 in the morning was a lot tougher than just letting them out the back door in Ga. Then you have to find a patch of grass but many times they just crap (his exact words) on the ceement (you don’t here it said like that up this way).
have to say I was laughing aloud listening to him talk about this on live radio.
bravefaninok
August 19th, 2009
10:34 pm
DOB banned him, and not 10 minutes later, there he was again.
It was pretty heinous…
* Link
* Report this comment
Banned for life……Blog years of course!
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
10:34 pm
Yea, P-Lentz got Bozo’d…He’s the first in 5 years of this blog…No Offense but I find it funny as hell
Random
August 19th, 2009
10:34 pm
Tomahawkin (August 19th, 2009 10:09 pm): ” ‘I’ve been nice to everyone, even some of the blog’s most polarizing characters’
“You Can bet your bottom-dollar that I’m one of them…”
Yeah, Laughin’ Boy.
Now, how ’bout tryin’ to catch up on yer correspondence?
Tomahawkin (August 17th, 2009 12:31 am): “BallGame
“1 Run on 4 G-Damn Hits!
“After All this Hype coming into the series and the offense came out and looked like some Sucka Ass Clowns?
“I’m tempted to go Kick the TV!”
Maybe you should satisfy yourself with kickin’ your own BAD self in the @ss, Clown:
Tomahawkin (August 14th, 2009 3:14 pm): “I Have a feeling that the off day will kill our momentum, but at the same time the team is well rested which is good…
“The Braves will at least take 2 of three “Bank On It!”
“We Will Slap Heavy B (Blanton) and drop tomorrows game…
“And I’m calling the Sunday Night game to be close but we overcome a deficit in the late innings and win 3-2
“Gonna Be a Hell Of a Series This Weekend!”
Tomahawkin (August 16th, 2009 2:36 pm): “I’m 25 And as you know I’m the Hypest Man On the Blogs Today! especially during game time
“Speaking of Hype Time To Bump some old Flava Flav and Public Enemy ‘Can’t Truss It!’ “
. . .
Tomahawkin –
Through 116 games, Chipper leads the Braves in OPS (.910, to McCann’s .846, Prado’s .831 and Escobar’s .810) AND OPS+ (149, to McCann’s 122, Prado’s 118 and Escobar’s 116).
Now tell me he’s not the offensive leader of this team, bro.
So far this season Chipper has appeared in more games (101, to Escobar’s 98, McCann’s 96 and Anderson’s 94) and has had more plate appearances (425, to Escobar’s 420, McCann’s 385 and Anderson’s 363) than any other Brave.
Now tell me he’s not consistent and dependable, bro.
Through 116 games, Chipper leads the Braves in Runs Created (78, to Escobar’s 60, McCann’s 58 and Prado’s 47) and Runs Created per Game (7.9, to McCann’s 6.0, Escobar’s 5.7 and Prado’s 5.5).
Now tell me he’s not the offensive leader of this team, bro.
Six Braves — McCann (12, 14%), Escobar (12, 20%), Prado (11, 16%), Francoeur (10, 12%), Anderson (10, 12%), Diaz (9, 12%) — have grounded into more double plays than Chipper (7, 9%). Only McLouth (8%), LaRoche (8%) and Johnson (8%) have grounded into relatively fewer double plays than Chipper (9%).
Now tell me he’s not clutch, bro.
Chipper’s batting is responsible for more than twice as many runs and more than twice as many wins as the next ranked Brave (McCann; Escobar and Prado follow).
Now tell me he’s not the offensive leader of this team, bro.
See for yourself.
jeffrey d
August 19th, 2009
10:35 pm
It got pretty ugly in here a couple of nights ago. Lentz had a melt down of sorts.
“Of sorts” is putting it lightly. Lentz had a meltdown of Biblical proportions. Think Phillip Wellman times a million.
Braveheart
August 19th, 2009
10:35 pm
Aw, Anders is smitten with White Clemente
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
10:36 pm
It’s Pretty hard to get Bozo’d on here…but I guess you can get back on instantly if you use a different email address…?
Count de Monet
August 19th, 2009
10:36 pm
I have a feeling we will need some of those 15 runs tomorrow.
Count de Monet
August 19th, 2009
10:37 pm
Too bad Lowe didn’t start tonight.
Anders
August 19th, 2009
10:37 pm
jeffrey d -I think you have your wires crossed. Wagners been on the DL since last August. He had TJ surgery. The mets have a $1 mil buyout which they are 99% likely to use if they don’t trade him.
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
10:38 pm
Yeah Random, How Has Our Self Proclaimed leader of the team done since the break…?
Face it dude he is flat out having an off year, your just to blind/stubborn to admit it, Now give it a rest will ya…?
Frankie Knuckles
August 19th, 2009
10:38 pm
But seriously, does anyone know how a draft is going to pan out a month after? Pujols went 402nd. Keith went to Harvard. Maybe he took one of their baseball talent and development courses.
blog observer
August 19th, 2009
10:38 pm
for me in blog order,
1. scoots, a early morning thing
2. RHR, she could bunt
3. braveheart, because he usually rakes.
4. DOB,enough said.
5. mcfann because, well because, plus she hates her man hitting fourth.
6. lew, perfect spot for him. the kinda guy that gets the job done.
7. flange1, going old school with atlanta and athens guy.
8. steve from ohio, he earned it. he is the manager in the lineup. he will know when to sacrafice.
9. wayne from utah, i dont know why wayne, but at least you never yell at bobby, plus i like you.
relief pitcher, carroll rogers, DUH.
closer’s well that is a three headed race.
bubdylan, bay area steve, and uga-brave are like the nasty boys.
brantley, charlton, and dibble.
blog observer out,
blog observer reserves the right not to hurt, nolie’s feelings.
had nolie on bobby’s perch.
add this to the RROE. the RROE was probably one of the funniest things i ever read here.
Anders
August 19th, 2009
10:39 pm
Too bad Lowe didn’t start tonight (Count de Monet)
Funny, I was thinking the same thing. {:
Necromancer
August 19th, 2009
10:40 pm
It’s Pretty hard to get Bozo’d on here…but I guess you can get back on instantly if you use a different email address…? Tomahawkin
That, or if you have an arsenal of laptops at your disposal because the dude has no life outside of cyberland…
Steve from OH
August 19th, 2009
10:40 pm
bubdylan, bay area steve, and uga-brave are like the nasty boys
Priceless…
jeffrey d
August 19th, 2009
10:41 pm
Anders – I just looked it up. Wagner said he had played his “last game as a Met” and I took that to mean he was unhappy with the organization. But I see it’s because he wasn’t planning on pitching in 2009 and they more than likely won’t exercise his option.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
10:42 pm
blog observer
40 years ago, when I realized I had a noodle for an arm, I toyed with the knuckleball (Neikro protege??), but it hardly “knuckled” much. Might wanna get one of those nasty boys in perty quick!
jeffrey d
August 19th, 2009
10:43 pm
I see Lentz hasn’t posted in about an hour. Either he’s getting tired of being hated, or is preparing the longest comment ever seen by man.
Louisville brave
August 19th, 2009
10:43 pm
marlins losing 6-3
jeb
August 19th, 2009
10:44 pm
Here is a link and good info on “exertional headaches”
http://www.headacheupdates.com/migraine/know-your-pain/types/exertional-headache.htm
Steve from OH
August 19th, 2009
10:45 pm
Can I be blog GM too?
With my first act as blog GM, I hereby trade Paul Lentz and 25,000 cash to Leavenworth Federal Penitentiary for 3 bags of the grape Big League Chew and 3 of those orange jumpsuits to use as uniforms for the blog “nasty boys.”
I hope the blog doesn’t rip me too badly…
Anders
August 19th, 2009
10:45 pm
Word up here is the Mets are gonna shop Sheffield too. He’s cheap. Certainly offers more than Norton off the bench. If he drops to you guys on the waiver wire you interested?
Necromancer
August 19th, 2009
10:45 pm
So, Tomahawkin, what did you think of my thoughts on my 10:40pm post? Any thoughts??
Just kidding…that was my feeble attempt at a Paul Lentz impersonation.
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
10:45 pm
And Random Since you wanna keep dragging this out It’s amusing that you disappeared after our leader didn’t show up for the Phillies series…?
Truth hurts bro…
jeb
August 19th, 2009
10:46 pm
Here is a link for info on “exertional headaches”
http://www.headacheupdates.com/migraine/know-your-pain/types/exertional-headache.htm
Necromancer
August 19th, 2009
10:47 pm
jeffreyd
I smell a 3 pager comin’
jeffrey d
August 19th, 2009
10:47 pm
Steve – if it’s not too much, do you think we can make one of those bags sour apple?
Anders
August 19th, 2009
10:47 pm
I don’t know about you guys but September has caused Exertional headaches for me.
Fast Eddie Perez
August 19th, 2009
10:48 pm
Say what you want about Frank Wren, but he has gotten all the moves right. Glavine & Smoltz out, McClouth trade, Church for Frenchy, LaRoche for Kotchman, all good moves, even tho Frenchy is doing well so is Church & Frenchy needed a change. LaRoche is hittin bombs, & Smoltzie is DONE! No one wants Glavine & McClouth is a keeper. Nice job Frank, definetely an improved ballclub
jeffrey d
August 19th, 2009
10:48 pm
I smell a 3 pager comin’
I’ll go warn the women and children
Steve from OH
August 19th, 2009
10:48 pm
I tried to get the sour apple, jeffrey, but the warden told me that if he was taking back Paul Lentz, I had to take the grape, because the prisoners didn’t want it. Sorry, best I could do. I was fortunate enough to get the jumpsuits.
Braveheart
August 19th, 2009
10:48 pm
Problem is would Sheffield accept a Norton like role? Likely not a chance in hell of Sheff ever accepting that.
Necromancer
August 19th, 2009
10:50 pm
Heard on the radio tonight that if Prado goes on the DL, Conrad might be called back up.
Powell was saying he was heating up again in Gwinnett.
Didn’t know if you guys knew that already or not. If so, I apologize to being late on the 411.
jeffrey d
August 19th, 2009
10:50 pm
Steve – No problem. Hey, if it means getting rid of Paul Lentz, I’d take booger flavor.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
10:50 pm
Steve
I think I would be OK with that deal.
Braveheart
August 19th, 2009
10:51 pm
The linked website says: “The activities mostly associated with exertional headache are: weight lifting, running, rowing, tennis, heading the ball in soccer, and sexual intercourse. People who are new at these activities or are resuming them after a long time are more susceptible to this (exertional) headache.”
Damn Bobby Cox’s fault. Didn’t play the guy for so long, that when he finally did play him everyday, Martin was so not used to it, he suffered wicked headaches. Damn Bobby Cox!
Necromancer
August 19th, 2009
10:53 pm
Mama always said there would be some Paul Lentz’s in the world..
(sigh)
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
10:55 pm
Anders
I was sending you a post about why I was requesting an apology, but the blog ate it. Probably better that it did.
Keith Law Sucks!!!!!
August 19th, 2009
10:56 pm
His Harvard degree means nothing. He isn’t smart. Roy Clark does everything right!!!!!
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
10:57 pm
I get real touchy when folks slam our military guys and gals.
Necromancer
August 19th, 2009
10:58 pm
Most annoying people:
1. Gilbert Godfried(sp?)
2. Chip Caray
3. Fran Drescher
4. Billy Mayes (God rest his soul)
5. Tim McCarver
6. Joe Morgan
7. Steve Phillips
8. The Double Pits to Chesty dude that used to post on here.
9. Barack Obama
10.Paul Lentz
No random order…
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
10:58 pm
Norton hasn’t looked too bad of late. Gotta get past that low BA and see what he has done recently.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
11:00 pm
Necro
You coulda just said “all politicians” and I woulda been ok with that one.
Heath
August 19th, 2009
11:00 pm
Steve from OH -
Make sure you call me up from the minors too! I am a promising young stud!
Keith Law Sucks!!!!!
August 19th, 2009
11:00 pm
Let’s send Keith Law to Baseball America for an intern. Bet the intern knows more about the draft and prospects!!!!!!!
Shamus Thacker
August 19th, 2009
11:00 pm
If Lowe had started tonight it’da been a dizz-whoozy!
Sure good to see summa the guys get back on track who were struggling. B-Mac’s looking a whole lot better, throwing too! Happy for ya McFann! Poor ol’ Bobby couldn’t make a mess outa thissun, we scored so many runs he didn’t have time to make any decisions. lol
Mixxo from Bonaire
August 19th, 2009
11:01 pm
Where IS Marietta Derek BTW?
ChurchMan
August 19th, 2009
11:01 pm
There’s some ground to be made up soon for the Braves in the wild card: Rockies and Giants play 7 games in the next 11 days (with the Dodgers in between those two series).
Braves plays Florida, San Diego, and Philly in that same span so it won’t be a cake walk for them to make up ground.
Necromancer
August 19th, 2009
11:01 pm
Wayne
I second that..
MattyO
August 19th, 2009
11:02 pm
Good win tonight. Gotta come out strong tomorrow, and take the series. I’ll be there to support the Bravos, anyone else going? Go Braves!
Steve from OH
August 19th, 2009
11:02 pm
Sorry Heath, not until June (gotta watch our finances, you know).
blog observer
August 19th, 2009
11:02 pm
blog needs more humor, less strife.
don’t care about the past, but lessons could be learned from people that don’t scream, game over.
the bobby stink’s clan are pretty much knuckle draggers, sans N8.
thirsty horse where art thou?
relax, life is short, enjoy 7:00 starts when baseball means something.
oh by the WAY, Thank DOB, this is the guy that drew all you in.
his leads, movie reviews, bbq, and music drew me in a very long time ago.
gotta love his passion. so in the infinite wisdom of the hoodoo gooroos, mars don’t need guitars.
Necromancer
August 19th, 2009
11:03 pm
Where IS Marietta Derek BTW?
I think the Blog Mafia rubbed him out…
Who Knew
August 19th, 2009
11:03 pm
Ok, what did I miss?? last time I checked in a couple days ago DOB was banning lentz for his nasty posts, waht happened to the supposed banning?
Keith Law Sucks!!!!!
August 19th, 2009
11:04 pm
He is awful.
Anders
August 19th, 2009
11:04 pm
Wayne – No problem. I got the drift. Thanks.
Tomahawkin
August 19th, 2009
11:05 pm
Necromancer
Throw in Paris Hilton and Britney Spears on that list as well
Honorable mention Blow Buck and Stuart Scott
Go Vandy!
August 19th, 2009
11:05 pm
Is Keith Law Sucks!!!!! Mike Minor’s relative? Or maybe Roy Clark?
Necromancer
August 19th, 2009
11:06 pm
Ok, what did I miss?? last time I checked in a couple days ago DOB was banning lentz for his nasty posts, waht happened to the supposed banning?
You know how some types of cancer is….just when you think it’s eradicated, it pops up again…
Frankie Knuckles
August 19th, 2009
11:06 pm
Mixxo,
“Where IS Marietta Derek BTW?”
Who cares. That kid was about as useful as an rectum on an elbow.
Anders
August 19th, 2009
11:06 pm
Braveheart – Sheffield has said he wants to play again next year. I think he’ll take any job that gives him some contending exposure. next year he’ll shop for a DH job.
Jeffro
August 19th, 2009
11:06 pm
Check out the poll on BSPN.com…..asking what NL 1-2 combo is the best….notice the absence of Jurrjens/Vazquez…..BSPN is a joke
Necromancer
August 19th, 2009
11:07 pm
I dunno…Britney Spears I kinda like..
She’s got that “skank ho” appeal to her. Then again…I could just be thinking with the wrong head!
Heath
August 19th, 2009
11:08 pm
Who Knew
August 19th, 2009
11:03 pm
Ok, what did I miss?? last time I checked in a couple days ago DOB was banning lentz for his nasty posts, waht happened to the supposed banning?
The bigger travesty is that Steve is being tight with the finances and keeping me in the minors when I am clearly ready and I will help the major league team!!!
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
11:08 pm
Since returning in early July, Norton has gotten 5 hits, 7 walks in 26 plate appearances. Low BA, but high OBP. And he has done most of that in the past 2 weeks.
David O'Brien
August 19th, 2009
11:08 pm
Game story write-through should be up in a little bit, but here it is.
By the way, Cox signed both lineup cards to give to Gorecki. Everyone was thrilled for the kid. Gorecki said he could hear all those friends and family members yelling for him. He left about 100 tix.
“It’s a little different than a Triple-A game, where you might have four or five people cheering for you,” he said.
By David O’Brien
dobrien@ajc.com
New York – One night after Derek Lowe had his doors blown off by an eight-run Mets inning, the Braves returned the favor with an eight-run outburst of their own Wednesday night at Citi Field.
Brian McCann’s three-run homer punctuated an eight-run second inning, and the Braves pounded out plenty more extra-base hits later in a 15-2 rout against the Mets to even the three-game series.
Jair Jurrjens pitched six solid innings for his 10th win and Adam LaRoche and Matt Diaz each homered for the Braves, who need to win against Mets ace Johan Santana on Thursday to take the three-game series.
“These are must-win games, and we responded awesome,” McCann said. “J.J. pitched great again…. [Diaz] is incredible. He’s able to carry a team for a couple of weeks, as hot as he gets.”
Diaz drove in four runs with two hits including a two-run homer in the sixth, giving him seven RBIs in two nights against the Mets and three homers in the past four games.
His two-run single drove in the first runs of the eight-run second.
“Last night was tough,” Diaz said. “I was very proud of the way we bounced back and put it right back on them tonight.”
LaRoche had three hits and homered for the third consecutive game, his sixth-inning solo shot giving him five homers in seven games. Since being traded to the Braves on July 31, he’s hit .389 with six homers and 12 RBIs in 16 games.
“Everything we expected we would get — we’re getting even more,” manager Bobby Cox said of LaRoche, who has 19 homers this season with three teams.
Omar Infante, Yunel Escobar and former Mets outfielder Ryan Church also three hits apiece for the Braves, who had a season-high 18 hits after being held to eight or fewer for six games.
The 18th hit was a ninth-inning single by outfielder Reid Gorecki, the first major league hit and RBI for the Queens, N.Y., native, who arrived Monday from Class AAA. He left more than 100 tickets for friends and family members.
“These are for Gorecki,” Cox said as he signed lineup cards to give the rookie. “It’s heartening to see that. We like him. He’s not just a Triple-A guy.”
The Braves teed off against
BillyBobby Parnell (3-5), a converted reliever who gave up nine hits and nine runs in three innings of his third major league start.Jurrjens (10-8) won for the first time in his past five starts, allowing eight hits, two runs and one walk with four strikeouts in six innings.
“It felt good to get back in the ‘W’ column,” said Jurrjens, who is 4-1 with a 2.87 ERA in six starts against the Mets. He knew Wednesday was important: “With Santana going tomorrow, it’s going to be a more challenging to our hitters.”
Parnell (3-5) had not allowed any earned runs in seven relief appearances over two seasons against the Braves, but they rocked him Wednesday.
Five Braves runs in the second might have been avoided if second baseman Luis Castillo hadn’t forgotten to cover the base on a two-out Garret Anderson grounder to short.
Shortstop Anderson Hernandez had to scramble, reload and throw to first, too late. One run scored there, then Chipper Jones walked to load the bases.
After a wild pitch brought in one run, McCann hit a towering three-run homer to right-center field. He hit the ninth pitch, after fouling off three.
Before Wednesday, McCann was 9-for-52 (.173) with one homer in 15 games.
Worst bloggers - All time
August 19th, 2009
11:08 pm
Overlord, Chase, Paul Dense, and Coach.
Anders
August 19th, 2009
11:09 pm
Well, I’m shot. Tomorrow is a huge game for you guys. Hopefully Santana has his “A” game and we get a classic. Should be fun. Till then.
Necromancer
August 19th, 2009
11:09 pm
I think the reason we haven’t heard from Lentz in a while is because DOB caught a charter out to San Fran to run over Lentz with his Harley…
Heath
August 19th, 2009
11:10 pm
Necromancer
August 19th, 2009
11:07 pm
I dunno…Britney Spears I kinda like..
She’s got that “skank ho” appeal to her. Then again…I could just be thinking with the wrong head!
It happens to the best of us… You read about me being able to control my dreams a couple pages back, right?
Necromancer
August 19th, 2009
11:12 pm
Yeah…what ever happened to Coach?
David O'Brien
August 19th, 2009
11:13 pm
McCann said his swing’s stunk lately, but he worked in the cage the past few days and felt like he got something worked out. He hit a couple of balls hard Tuesday, and crushed that homer tonight.
Diaz and Mac both talked about how nice it is to have a guy like LaRoche who’s capable of hitting the ball out with any swing, in addition to how well he’s fit back into the clubhouse.
A few of them said Parnell was leaving a lot of pitches up in the zone. Bobby, to his credit, pointed out that Parnell had an inning like Lowe last night, where he didn’t deserve to give up as many runs as he did. (He was right about Parnell — if Castillo covers second, they could have avoided five of those eight runs.)
Sknahs Llib
August 19th, 2009
11:14 pm
Law is terrible. I agree with Keith Law Sucks!!!!!
David O'Brien
August 19th, 2009
11:16 pm
Braves still fourth in wild card, four off lead — only Florida ahead of them lost tonight. They’re a game behind Marlins. The Cubs lost, dropping fifth-place Chicago to 5-1/2 back in the wild-card race.
David O'Brien
August 19th, 2009
11:17 pm
And next behind the Cubs is Milwaukee, which also lost to drop to a full nine games back in wild-card standings.
Necromancer
August 19th, 2009
11:17 pm
Heath
Lady GaGa also holds that distinction as well. Have you seen Love Game video?
Holy Hell, dude!
KC
August 19th, 2009
11:17 pm
Necromancer: Wow… we see eye to eye. I have no problem with Paul Lentz at all, but other than that, I completely agree with your list of annoying people. There are one or two I might move up that list. One in particular, I would move all the way to the top, but I will avoid political discussion (and “annoying” doesn’t begin to cover it). =)
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
11:18 pm
Heath
I wish I could control my dreams (repost that one if you have it handy). I don’t dream that often, but last night I dreamed I was back in the Army (I am almost 54). And I was this old. Some sort of “help the young troops” program.
Most entertaining dream since I dreamed I was one of the 3 original guys from “America”. (Don’t know which one, but I was playing guitar and singing)
jb
August 19th, 2009
11:18 pm
Marlins just lost.
Necromancer
August 19th, 2009
11:19 pm
KC
Yeah…that’s about as close to politics as I’ll come on this blog.
KC
August 19th, 2009
11:19 pm
DOB, the Marlins are losing 6-3 in the 9th.
jb
August 19th, 2009
11:20 pm
George Bush wasn’t annoying. He was just lost.
David O'Brien
August 19th, 2009
11:20 pm
Mets said Castillo was playing so far over for pull hitter that he couldn’t have covered second. But his mistake was not telling the shortstop beforehand, because then at least the shortstop could’ve thrown directly to first base for the out instead of looking first to second base.
Anyway, so what, right? As Charles Bukowski would say, “A round of drinks for all my friends.”
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
11:20 pm
jb
So you’re saying, “The fish have been fried.”
Heath
August 19th, 2009
11:21 pm
Necromancer -
I have not seen that video. Lady Gaga… Love Game, huh? I supposed I can search that on the internet and find it?
?
August 19th, 2009
11:21 pm
Um, the Cubs are winning 4-0 in the 4th inning and the Marlins lost. You ok, Dave?
Necromancer
August 19th, 2009
11:22 pm
Miley Cyrus and the Jonas Brothers are some more that I would add to that list.
But, then again…I’m not a star struck tweenager..
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
11:22 pm
DOB
Shouldn’t the SS have known where his second baseman was playing? I didn’t see the play, I heard it. The NY guys were ripping Castillo. But, if he didn’t come over because he was playing the batter to pull, then the SS should have known that, don’t ya think?
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
11:24 pm
Those Mets radio broadcasters are really hard on their team, or at least they were tonight.
Heath
August 19th, 2009
11:24 pm
Necromancer
August 19th, 2009
11:22 pm
Miley Cyrus and the Jonas Brothers are some more that I would add to that list.
Wait…before I look up anything, what am I looking up again?
But, then again…I’m not a star struck tweenager..
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
11:26 pm
KC and jb
And what was up with those jeans the President was wearing. Was he expecting heavy rains? You’d a thought Michelle would have dressed him better than that!
Not trying to dig at our President, as most of my friends here know where I stand on that stuff, but that bluejean thing was funny as heck!
KC
August 19th, 2009
11:27 pm
Necromancer, THE number ONE most annoying person in the world… far and away… NO CONTEST…
Keith Olberman.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
11:28 pm
KC
Come on now, you know he’s a basketball guy, not a baseball guy! Not everybody can be a Dave DeBusschere (sp).
jb
August 19th, 2009
11:28 pm
kc – olbermann? i was going to go with rush limbaugh or bill o’reilly.
Necromancer
August 19th, 2009
11:28 pm
Oh man…Bob Uecker!
I should have included him in the original list!
KC
August 19th, 2009
11:28 pm
Wayne in Utah, I didn’t have a problem with the jeans so much… just the throw!
jeffrey d
August 19th, 2009
11:29 pm
The NY guys were ripping Castillo? He was about as far from second as the runner (Infante?) was. SS should’ve known where his second baseman was. I suppose Castillo could have said something, but still.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
11:30 pm
KC
Amen on Olberman!
Necromancer
August 19th, 2009
11:30 pm
KC
Touche’
Paul Snyder
August 19th, 2009
11:31 pm
Hey DOB…Just an FYI for your article, it’s Bobby Parnell…I know he’s just another of many non-descript Mets, but I’m just tryin to save you the hassle of finalizing an article with an error…
Whatever his name is, we had a great time with old BP tonight…He sure was getting a lot of balls down the heart of the plate for us to get some good cuts…You sure wouldn’t know how big that park is by some of the long, tape measure home runs we hit over the last 2 days (mainly Laroche and McCann)…
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
11:31 pm
jb
OK, so now we know what side of the fence you live on, and you know the side that me, KC and Necro live on. We probably better stop here before somebody (like me) get’s ticked off or something.
Let’s just leave it at that, huh?
Necromancer
August 19th, 2009
11:32 pm
Hmm…do the Steinbrenners qualify for our list?
Will
August 19th, 2009
11:33 pm
I gotta post this here cause i dont know where else to, but i am just wondering on that poll about who is the odd man out if hudson comes back where is the choice ” dont bring hudson back this season and mess with a good thing”! I think bringing tim hudson back this season would just be a collosal mistake.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
11:35 pm
I can see it a year from now: NEWS FLASH!!! Brett Favre has decided to come out of retirement and play for the Buffalo Bills in 2010!
Is anybody else getting tired of his “wishy-washyness”? I don’t mind if you want to play, just shut up about retiring until you haven’t played for 5 years, then we might believe you!
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
11:37 pm
Will
Put yourself in Huddy’s shoes. You had a major surgery, your rehabbing, and all is going well. Would you want them to just shut you down, before your option year?
It can never hurt to have too many arms. Besides, you never know what will happen in the next month either. Pitchers can be so prone to injury.
Necromancer
August 19th, 2009
11:37 pm
Well, I gotta work tomorrow. I didn’t mean to stir up a hornet’s nest with my list…
hope everyone has a good evening..
Let’s go Kawakami!!!
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
11:38 pm
jeffrey
Yeah, I think it might have been the SS’s mental error. Gotta know where you are going before the ball is hit.
KC
August 19th, 2009
11:38 pm
jb, in fairness, I can certainly see how Limbaugh would be annoying if you’re on the other side of the fence. Limbaugh and Olberman certainly lead their respective sides of the political isle in smugness.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
11:40 pm
Later guys…..
I guess that is a NO from Paul on the Mitchie apology. Oh well, I didn’t think he had it in him anyway.
Not tonight, probably not tomorrow, but buttons WILL be pushed, and pushed hard.
KC
August 19th, 2009
11:40 pm
Hey Wayne, what is your email address? I have misplaced it.
Who Knew
August 19th, 2009
11:41 pm
so lentz got a free pass and no banning afterall huh…
KC
August 19th, 2009
11:41 pm
Let’s go Kawakami indeed!!!!!! Gotta get this win tomorrow. BIG game!!!!
Sure would be nice to win one and see the Rockies lose tomorrow!!!
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
11:42 pm
KC
my seldom used one is wrs-jas@live.com
I will reply back from my other one.
jeffrey d
August 19th, 2009
11:42 pm
Wayne – Favre’s flip-flopping is annoying but I somewhat understand it and I can tolerate it. What I cannot stand is ESPN’s nonstop coverage of it.
I had the day off yesterday. I was planning on starting out lazy and watching SportsCenter for awhile. I turned on the TV to see the “breaking news” that Favre had boarded a plane at 9:10. ESPN continued to cover the story for literally 90 minutes straight.
And then, it’s as if ESPN was trying to stereotype itself. They broke the Favre coverage….with highlights from the Yankees game. Then they went back to Favre.
I mean, does ESPN think this is what we want to see? Like people are huddled around their TVs waiting for the next news break, like it’s Vietnam or something?
RHR
August 19th, 2009
11:43 pm
By the way, Cox signed both lineup cards to give to Gorecki. Everyone was thrilled for the kid. Gorecki said he could hear all those friends and family members yelling for him. He left about 100 tix.
Aww thats great. Good for him. He said on braves live he didn’t know who had the ball, just that someone threw it up in the stands (to his peeps, I assume).
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
11:43 pm
Who knew
I don’t know if I would call it a free pass……. some folks have a memory like and elephant around here.
KC
August 19th, 2009
11:44 pm
Speaking of apologies… I think the Mets skipper owes one to Ryan Church. Even if he didn’t mean it the way it sounded, he should clarify and apologize to Ryan, who deserves better. They had their heads up their a$$es with the way they handed his concussion last year, and now he’s going to bust on him and suggest that he’s not as tough as Wright. What a prick.
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
11:44 pm
jeffrey
I just wish he would shut the heck up until he knows for sure. He waffles so much, you’d think he was a politician.
Yunel's Frosted Tips
August 19th, 2009
11:47 pm
Ol’ Hoss looking rode hard and put up wet again
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
11:49 pm
It must be contagious in NY…being an azz, that is. Minaya, Bernazard and now Manuel.
blog observer
August 19th, 2009
11:49 pm
annoying,
they all have a job to do. i find rush boardeline self absorbed. same with olberman. tit for tat please leave it that way.
Tokyo Bravo
August 19th, 2009
11:49 pm
Testing, testing….what’s up with this block?!?
KC
August 19th, 2009
11:49 pm
I’ve been of the firm belief the Hudson is needed in the bullpen. However, if KK looks good tomorrow, and Soriano gets back to normal this week, my opinion could change.
David O'Brien
August 19th, 2009
11:50 pm
?, oh well. I didn’t write it in any story, just a quick comment here. Glanced at the wild-card standings before I turned off laptop at ballpark. Guess I looked at scores wrong.
The A Bomb
August 19th, 2009
11:50 pm
Best umpire’s strike 3 call in baseball. . . Tom Hallion.
Did you see him ring up Francoeur tonight? See the torque on those hips?
Maybe he can give Chipper a training session or two on how to strengthen those obliques!
KC
August 19th, 2009
11:52 pm
blog observer, please leave it WHAT way? I already said, stepping back and looking at it objectively, that they’re BOTH arrogant, and are probably guaranteed to be like fingernails on a chalkboard to anyone of the opposite worldview.
Wayne, no doubt… being an arse seems to be a job requirement for a Mets coaching/front office job!!
jeffrey d
August 19th, 2009
11:53 pm
Did you see him ring up Francoeur tonight? See the torque on those hips?
His called third strike looks like a Mortal Kombat fatality move.
KC
August 19th, 2009
11:56 pm
Alrighty… gotta gets my rest so I can stay beautiful! Here’s hoping for a BIG win tomorrow!!!!
Wayne in Utah
August 19th, 2009
11:57 pm
DOB
Now, so long as you don’t do that on the last week of the season.
The A Bomb
August 19th, 2009
11:57 pm
jeffrey d. . . Only other strike 3 ring up I really enjoyed was Frank Pulli, who did some Fred Astaire dance step.
Of course my all-time favorite was Bruce Froemming as Pena whiffed Van Slyke on the changeup in the ‘91 NLCS. No style points, but lots of satisfaction.
jeffrey d
August 20th, 2009
12:00 am
Well if we’re talking all-time favorites…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x-S-eeInJVk
The A Bomb
August 20th, 2009
12:04 am
Touche!
Tokyo Bravo
August 20th, 2009
12:07 am
There is no umpire who can compare to Dutch Rennert. Great balls & strikes guy, and what a set of lungs!
Sorely missed.
David O'Brien
August 20th, 2009
12:09 am
Thanks, Paul. Now that’s a stupid mistake, especially since I wrote his name correctly in scorebook and today’s paper. Spent too much time doing scoring/hitting/home-run updates, overlooked that name.
By the way, we had the same conversation about the park. It’s big, but balls were flying out of there past two nights despite the heavy humidity and all.
Bobby Cox went over and got a tour of new Yankee Stadium today. Said he liked the field at the old place better, though the outside and clubhouses at new place were pretty spectacular. He said that right-field fence looks as close as the Crawford Boxes down the left-field line at Houston.
David O'Brien
August 20th, 2009
12:11 am
Tokyo Bravo: What block?
uga-brave
August 20th, 2009
12:11 am
did not get to see the the start, but 8 in two, watching the replay now.
DOB, gorecki strikes me as someone at 29 making his first call up would make a good story.
the guy is from long island. bet he knew marquis.
this team may not be built right. too many lefty’s but when the season started who would of guessed our most consistent outfielder would of been anderson.
by the way when was the last day he had a off day?
The A Bomb
August 20th, 2009
12:12 am
I liked Rennert too, but he was more of an audio guy. . . Hallion and Pulli more visual.
Tokyo Bravo
August 20th, 2009
12:13 am
DOB- No worries, just seemed like for about an hour or two all my posts were disappearing. Seems OK now.
And btw – you still need to come check out Tokyo sometime in the offseason!
uga-brave
August 20th, 2009
12:23 am
dob,
adam wainwright is throwing another shutout.
he is right there in the cy young thing.
Mitch C
August 20th, 2009
12:24 am
Dave, after you wrote this, Braves had a great night tonight. 15-2 on the road, even against the Mets, is pretty good. JJ looked good tonight. Now we have to deal with Santana tomorrow. Hopefully we can find a way to beat him.
Mitch
Jurrjens4NLCY
August 20th, 2009
12:26 am
Just saw, “The Knowing” with Nick Cage, not too bad.
uga-brave
August 20th, 2009
12:26 am
the cards now have the best 1 2 punch. carp and wainwright.
couple that with pinero, and franklin at the end. who is more dangerous now?
Jurrjens4NLCY
August 20th, 2009
12:27 am
Cardinals and Twins were my picks for the world series at ST, I’m looking pretty good right now
Jurrjens4NLCY
August 20th, 2009
12:32 am
Wainwright is putting on a clinic, I think that was the worse trade in modern Braves history.
Jurrjens4NLCY
August 20th, 2009
12:33 am
Either is a killer!
Jurrjens4NLCY
August 20th, 2009
12:34 am
Thats a shame! Go Cardinals!
Paul Snyder
August 20th, 2009
12:37 am
You’re very welcome, DOB…With all the information you’re constantly getting out to all of us and putting into articles (which we appreciate more than you can imagine by the way), I could see how it would be very easy to have a small typo…I’m a long time reader and very new poster, and I can’t say enough about the great job you and Carroll do with the blog, the coverage of the team, and communicating with all of us real time at all hours…We truly appreciate it!
Yes, Rochey and Mac certainly hit a few very long HR the last couple of days…I even thought I heard something last week about the Mets hitting their first opposite field HR at Citi just sometime the last week or two (I’m not positive about this though and haven’t verified it, because I find it slightly hard to believe)…Meanwhile, Matty went oppo both yesterday and tonight…
That OF does look very spacious though, even moreso without Nate in CF covering ground from gap to gap…Churchy is doing his best out there in CF, but Nate is a gold glove caliber CF and you just don’t replace those instincts and the reads that he gets off the bat…
uga-brave
August 20th, 2009
12:38 am
just as i brag on wainwright, he gives up two dingers.
Paul Snyder
August 20th, 2009
12:45 am
Hey DOB…That’s great that Bobby had a chance to go see the new Yankee Stadium today…Obviously the old stadium holds so many special memories for Bobby, in terms of where he broke into the big leagues, playing with Mantle and Munson (among many others), and the organization that he got his start managing with…
I have heard the clubhouses and concourses, etc. are very nice at the new one…and yes the RF porch plays really, really short….
Paul Snyder
August 20th, 2009
12:53 am
Yep, tie game out in LA now after the Blake HR…Wainwright is a stud…He’s really turning out to be a legit top of the rotation guy (25-10 combined the last 2 years)…It hurts sometimes to think about what we gave up in that deal (not just Wainwright, but Marquis)…We were in a tough spot though after Sheff left via free agency and we had a big void in the middle of our lineup…JD Drew came in and played very well, and actually stayed healthy…it’s just too bad we only got 1 year from him in return…
Jurrjens4NLCY
August 20th, 2009
12:54 am
Anyone else watching the Cards-Dodger classic? Reminds me of when the Braves visited, although Braves kicked some Blue A$$
RHR
August 20th, 2009
12:57 am
Just saw, “The Knowing” with Nick Cage, not too bad.
I would put it on my top 10 list of worst movies I’ve ever seen.
uga-brave
August 20th, 2009
1:00 am
paul snyder,
well said.
Paul Lentz
August 20th, 2009
1:04 am
The next 4 games will be a sneak preview of whether the Braves do have what it takes compete for the Wild Card (I think it is safe to assume, with the Braves being 8 games behind the Phillies in the loss column, that the division title is out of our reach).
With Johan Santana pitching tomorrow, Kenshin Kawakami will have to assume that he probably wont have many runs to work with. So in other words, he will have “bear down” and hold the Mets offense in check.
In other words, “pick up the offense” until the Braves can get into the Mets bullpen.
Paul Snyder
August 20th, 2009
1:07 am
Yep Jurrjens…2-2 going into the 9th in the rubber game…this is truly a 3 game series with a playoff atmosphere and feel…
The job we did rebounding from that crushing loss in the opener to take the last 3 of that series (on the road vs. the team w/the best record in NL) was truly remarkable…
Thx very much, UGA-Brave…
Paul Snyder
August 20th, 2009
1:08 am
Pujols vs. Broxton, mano a mano…doesn’t get much better than that…
Paul Snyder
August 20th, 2009
1:11 am
Wow…Pujols with the SB and making an impact with his legs…Orlando Hudson really could have done a better job knocking that down…
uga-brave
August 20th, 2009
1:15 am
paul,
we dont go to the playoffs without drew that year. you got it right.
too think we once had a lineup of;
furcal
giles
jones
sheffield
jones
javy
castilla
ficke/franco.
problem was we ran into prior and wood at their pretty much only peak.
can say the same thing about the d’backs and schilling, and unit.
kevin brown twice with the pads and the fish.
NOTE, all power pitchers in the postseason.
larussa beeched like a woman after the 96 nlcs after the cards were up 3-1 and lost the series.
he made a point about the catcher’s box. thought glav and maddawg stole pitches.
after that series anytime he came to atlanta he wanted the catcher’s box measured.
Bravo Nam
August 20th, 2009
1:27 am
DOB
Good song choice.
Go Bravos!!
DiamondbackMac
August 20th, 2009
1:41 am
I’m not seeing anyone saying anything about Infante. The guy comes back from a broken hand and picks up right where he left off and seemingly no one notices. Tonight 3 for 6 with one run scored and 3 rbi.
Paul Snyder
August 20th, 2009
1:43 am
UGA…You got that right, our lineup circa 2003 was totally stacked…Chipper, Andruw, and Sheff in the OF all nearly 30+ HR and 100+ RBI…Javy hitting 43 HR’s behind the plate…Castilla and Giles each hitting 20 plus…
You’re exactly right about the importance of power pitching, and stuff in general, in the post season…To go against the stronger and deeper lineups you see in Oct you need power arms and guys with plus stuff along with command (Hanson, Vazquez, Jurrjens are in that mold and developing even moreso specifically Tommy and Jair, and Lowe has the savvy and big game experience, with Huddy kind of a combination of both)…
In 2003 Wood, Prior and Zambrano just flat outpitched us…no other way around it…Russ Ortiz, Mike Hampton, and a 37 yr old Maddux were no match for them…and it cost us…Those guys put up very good win totals for us in the regular season because we flat out scored a ton of runs…but in the playoffs against top pitching obviously runs are tougher to come by…Same thing for 2001 vs. Dbacks…The Big Unit and Schilling were flat out overpowering…some of the most dominant postseason pitching by a tandem I’ve ever seen…
As for the Kevin Brown matchups…97 and 98…don’t even get me started on those…both series we should have won…without question…
DiamondbackMac
August 20th, 2009
1:50 am
DOB
How about a piece about the Hispanic influence on the resurrection of this team. Escobar, Vasquez, Infante, Prado; their contributions to this season have been phenomenal.
Paul Snyder
August 20th, 2009
1:52 am
DiamondBack…Oh yeah Infante’s return is huge…especially now moreso with Prado being day to day with the headaches/heat related symptoms, etc…He started out a little slow with the bat (2-13 his first 7 games) though he did deliver a huge game winning hit the Sat gm vs. the Phillies…It was great to see him breakout for 3 hits and 3 RBI tonight, because his RH bat will be huge tomorrow against Santana, and his top of the order presence will be very important while McLouth and Prads are out…Hopefully not very long for Martin…
DiamondbackMac
August 20th, 2009
1:58 am
Paul
From your mouth to God’s ears, Prado will return soon. But, with Infante there, I don’t think we’ll miss a beat.
Paul Lentz
August 20th, 2009
2:02 am
Paul Snyder……………..I stated 2 months ago that if Infante had not broken his hand in late May, then the Braves offense would have improved even more after the McLouth trade was made.
A lot of people feel that just because Infante isnt a superstar…..that he cant make that much of a difference. However, his versatility in the field……and the way he handles the bat (he is a really good guy to hit and run with), makes him a contributor to the line-up. The Braves could have used him during our struggles in June and early July.
DiamondbackMac
August 20th, 2009
2:08 am
Mr. Lentz
While I don’t always agree with your demeanor, I do agree with your analysis in most cases. As a matter of fact, the only one I disagree with is Peter Moylan. A couple of bad outings doesn’t make a bad season. Of course, you haven’t had much to say about him in the last few weeks.
Paul Snyder
August 20th, 2009
2:15 am
Lentz…definitely agreed…Omar was hitting over .340 when he got hurt, and his versatility (the fact that you can plug him in at any of the critical up the middle postions including CF), and the fact that he can be productive in either the leadoff spot or the 2 hole make him very valuable…
DiamondbackMac
August 20th, 2009
2:15 am
Just imagine a team with eight guys who hit like Infante, Escobar, Diaz, and Prado.
uga-brave
August 20th, 2009
2:19 am
paul snyder,
dont be a stranger. this blog has become overun with, how do say, i dont know. but a least you have sense of history.
as for your moniker, paul snyder, he was one of the biggest reasons we were in the postseason for 14 staight years.
DiamondbackMac
August 20th, 2009
2:34 am
As always, it’s been a pleasure. Good night and may God bless you all.
Random
August 20th, 2009
6:04 am
Tomahawkin (August 19th, 2009 10:45 pm): “Since you wanna keep dragging this out It’s amusing that you disappeared after our leader didn’t show up for the Phillies series…? Truth hurts bro…”
Shyeah — Truth. “You can’t handle the Truth.”
Just because you close your eyes don’t mean everybody’s gone.
I been here, you little “Hypest Man On the Blogs Today”, you. You just been ignorin’ me. Check 17 Aug, little man.
Chipper not “show[ing] up for the Phillies series” = 4 for 11 (.364), 1 RBI, 1 Run, 1 BB (OBP = .455).
Tomahawkin (August 19th, 2009 10:38 pm): “How Has Our Self Proclaimed leader of the team done since the break…?
“Face it dude he is flat out having an off year, your just to blind/stubborn to admit it, Now give it a rest will ya…?”
And now, yer changin’ yer argument.
Nobody has ever tried to say that Chipper hasn’t performed as well this year (.290/.404/.478) as he did last year (.364/.470/.574), or 10 years ago (his MVP year — .319/.441/.633). That would be stupid — he won the friggin’ Batting title last year.
“off year”? Compare his stats so far this year (.290/.404/.478) to his CAREER numbers (.309/.407/.545). Just how far “off” is that?
But YOU’VE been tryin’ to claim that this year he simply sux, that he isn’t “clutch”, that he’s no longer the offensive “leader” of the team.
And THAT claim is lame, “Sucka”. YOU yourself are lame, Blame-o. You = “A.C. Sucka”.
Through 119 games, Chipper still leads the Braves in OPS (.887, to McCann’s .846, Prado’s .830 and Escobar’s .813) and OPS+ (134, to McCann’s 121, Prado’s 118 and Escobar’s 114).
And “since the break”? Here’s how they’ve done “since the break”:
Chipper Jul = .284/.413/.494/.907
Chipper Aug = .308/.383/.462/.845
McCann Jul = .287/.327/.535/.862
McCann Aug = .204/.279/.370/.649
Prado Jul = .327/.392/.467/.859
Prado Aug = .298/.305/.456/.761
Escobar Jul = .356/.447/.616/1.063(!)
Escobar Aug = .281/.369/.316/.685(!)
Come on, G — fabricate some more lies, you pathetic little pismire.
I’ll be here.
Random
August 20th, 2009
6:06 am
Correction: Chipper OBP for recent Phillies series = .417, not .455.
Random
August 20th, 2009
6:07 am
.417, not .455
Couch Tater
August 20th, 2009
6:39 am
DiamondbackMac,
Good observation at 1:41 and 1:50. Don’t foget Soriano and Jair that add to the creole mix.
Duke Ellington- The Creole Love Call.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PQNjqL_xfMc&feature=related
Baba O'Riley
August 20th, 2009
7:28 am
Are people still complaining because we gave up Casey Kotchman for Laroche?
richbrave
August 20th, 2009
7:36 am
Speaking of a sense of history uga-brave, you’re not doing so badly yourself – PAUL SNYDER. The DALLASTOWN, PA. waif who grew up to be the architect of the miricle of ATLANTA and the fabulous run of champions both in ‘82 and 1991 to 2005.
Can't We All Just Get Along?
August 20th, 2009
7:42 am
Its sad that some people can’t debate on here without name calling. Why not politely disagree by stating your facts instead of condescendingly talking down to people and resorting to mean spirited name calling?
Tomahawkin and others you have singled out may not be walking baseball encyclopedias but they are Braves fans, and that is the one common thread that brings us here.
Personally I can overlook someone not being as knowledgeable as myself more than I can overlook a bitter, condescending ass hole who treats people like crap. Would you speak to someone like that in a face to face conversation? Perhaps you should look for a blog for Guys Who Know Everything if those here you deem lesser than yourself bother you so much.
London Calling
August 20th, 2009
8:14 am
A bit late replying to this. Time Zones and all that.
So … Curtis …
1. Why did he leave the poor-fielding, poor-hitting Kelly Johnson in the lineup for 80 games this year, with better alternatives available?
>Kelly Johnson is a proven major leaguer. He’s an average fielder, and a good, if streaky, hitter. Who are these alternatives? Infante had a broken hand. Prado had a groin injury. Not Brooks Conrad? A .250 singles hitter who can’t field but happend to have been appointed this year’s saviour by the blog (does anyone remember Phil Stockman now?)
2. Why did he leave the rally-killing Jeff Franceour in the lineup for more than two years, with better alternatives available?
>Yeah. We’ll pay him several million to do nothing. What’s the alternative? Diaz? He stunk full time in left last year, and a couple of weeks ago bloggers were screaming that he wasn’t a full time player. Where’s Francoeur now? Starting everyday for the Mets, that’s where.
3. Why did he choose to retain Greg Norton in the key pinch-hitting role, with a batting average at half the Mendoza line, with far better alternatives available?
>Greg Norton has been one of the top pinch hitters in the game for the last few years. Sure, he’s stunk for 50 at-bats this year, but he shouldn’t be dumped for that. He’s coming around. Who’s your alternative? Don’t tell me. Brooks Conrad.
4. Why did he insist on allowing notorious fire-starter Jeff Bennett to lose key games, when there were better arms available? And why did it take an act of stupidity from Bennett himself to prevent Cox from using him?
>Of course, Cox should never use bums like Bennett and Acosta when he has decent arms like Moylan & Gonzalez available.
5. Why has Cox effectively worn out a decent, surgically repaired relief corps, with the most over-use in the major leagues?
>Of course, Cox shouldn’t keep on using Moylan and Gonzalez when he has guys in the bullpen like Acosta and Bennett available.
6. Why has Cox repeatedly harassed one of the 2 or 3 best offensive/defensive shortstops in baseball for his occasional lapses, while allowing about a dozen others to loaf on the field with no repercussions?
>He pulled him out once – and quite rightly. He hasn’t shown him up at all, let alone repeatedly. You are mistaking the occasional physical errors all players make with “loafing”.
7. Why did Cox insist on playing Casey Kotchman (and occasionally batting him as high as 4th or 5th in the lineup) for an unproductive year when there were faster/more powerful alternatives available?
>Kotchman wasn’t that bad. He was great defensively, and while he had no power he had a decent average. The only alternative, Canizares, is a butcher in the field and unproven in the majors.
8. Why does Cox insist on batting an overworked Brian McCann in the cleanup position when he’s clearly unable to produce there?
>He’s been slumping for about 3 weeks, that’s all. I remember when the blogs was screaming about Andruw batting 4th when McCann was the only alternative.
9. Why has Cox not found a way to get more at-bats from David Ross, probably the best bench hitter on the entire team? (There are ways to have a 3rd/emergency catcher available…other teams do it)
>One extra at-bat a week for Ross. That’ll turn it around.
10. Why does Cox insist on wearing down many players to the point of unproductivity, while keeping promising players (Kris Medlen, Boone Logan, etc.) on the bench for two weeks at a time?
>Last time I checked Gonzo & Moylan hadn’t given up an earned run since the all-star break. Soriano hasn’t, in fact, been overused.
11. Why did it take Cox 3 months to realize Martin Prado was a high-average impact player? Everyone on this stinkin’ blog figured it out in April and May.
>Probably his groin injury.
12. How badly did Cox misjudge and misuse a promising young outfielder (Jordan Schaefer) who as we all knew by the end of April, was clearly not ready for the major leagues? How much damage was done to his psyche by rushing him into a situation for which he was woefully unprepeared?
>This blog would have gone into total meltdown if Schafer hadn’t started the season with the big club. He showed more patience that you would have – but then most here would have thrown him under the bus the first time he struck out. And you’re all for bringing up the likes of Heyward who has even less experience.
I have a shotgun. Anyone got a barrel with some fish in?
Baba O'Riley
August 20th, 2009
8:20 am
London calling. A+
fleming
August 20th, 2009
8:25 am
Didn’t get a chance to read all the blog from last night but was just wondering if any of the self proclaimed expert managers on the blog who were calling Cox insane, senile, and an idiot for yesterdays lineup come back on the blog after the game and admit that maybe they were the idiot in this case?
Coldwork
August 20th, 2009
8:26 am
Very well said London Calling.
Baba O'Riley
August 20th, 2009
8:32 am
Fleming- After a Braves win, those people hide out under a rock, the same way Lou Vales does after a Marlins loss.
keylargo
August 20th, 2009
8:36 am
Enter your comments here
Harry
August 20th, 2009
8:38 am
DOB: Richard Bernstein is a neurologist, not a neurosurgeon.
bravesgrl4life
August 20th, 2009
8:49 am
Woke up in a much better mood this morning. Thanks Braves!
fleming
August 20th, 2009
9:14 am
Enter your comments here
Wes
August 20th, 2009
9:16 am
Fleming – I wasn’t one of the Cox bashers…..but if you think we won last night based on great management, you need to rethink your argument.
ghostwriter
August 20th, 2009
9:22 am
Any Braves fans going to the game tonight?
brent a.
August 20th, 2009
9:23 am
Since we didn’t have this blog back in the Braves’ post-season heyday . . .
what are people’s thoughts about the 3-man rotation that Bobby stayed married to through most of those post-seasons?
I have often felt that it was one of the reasons why the Braves didn’t have more success. Even when the Cubs had Wood, Prior, Zambrano, they went with a 4-man rotation. (Wood pitching Games 1 & 5).
The Giants in 2002 also went with a 4-man rotation (Ortiz going in Games 1 & 5, with Glavine losing both Games 1 & 4). It happened for years, and I always felt that it messed with us a bit, especially when we started losing all those 5-gamers earlier this decade.
I’d really like people’s thoughts.
fleming
August 20th, 2009
9:25 am
Wes
Was talking about all the people complaining about the lineup that scored 15 runs and about what an idiot Cox was for putting together that lineup.
Escobar for Supreme Court
August 20th, 2009
9:26 am
Nobody should disrespect Cox. He is a brilliant baseballman no doubt. But he has not been able to adapt to this teams strengths. I don’t think you can deny that some of his decisions have cost this team 5-7 wins.
fleming
August 20th, 2009
9:27 am
brent a.
Three man rotations during the post season was pretty much standard back in those days.
fleming
August 20th, 2009
9:28 am
Escobar for Supreme Court – some of his decisions have cost this team 5-7 wins.
I can agree with that but will you then agree that over the course of a season decisions by almost all managers cost their teams 5-7 games.
DAP
August 20th, 2009
9:31 am
london callingBrooks Conrad? A .250 singles hitter who can’t field
ive gotta comment on this…brooks conrad isnt a singles hitter. he has proven in the minors that he has very good power. baseball cube rates his power almost as high as cody johnson. i believe johnson was rated by baseball america or something like that as having the best power in the minors. just an example of how brooks conrad actually has very good power.
Hillbilly
August 20th, 2009
9:31 am
Big night for Reid Gorecki. First ML hit and RBI in front of his friends and family, and against his favorite team growing up.
But most importantly, he was featured in the Verizon V-Cast Know your music inning as the Braves Player who enjoys listening to Pink Floyd. It’s about freakin’ time we got somebody on this team with good taste in music. Shine On, Reid.
Escobar for Supreme Court
August 20th, 2009
9:33 am
The lineup issue is a little overrated. It’s the matchups Cox has wedded himself to. I still contend that a 1 dimensional player like Norton coupled with carrying 12 pitchers has been detrimental to this team. If you carry Norton fine, drop Acosta or Logan and get another bench player.
ChipperFan
August 20th, 2009
9:37 am
London Calling PUTTIN’ IT DOWN!!!! Nicely done, mate.
Anders
August 20th, 2009
9:37 am
Just read some of DOB’s late night posts. Very solid of Cox to say what he did about Parnell having an inning similar to Lowe in context. Granted Parnell didn’t locate very well but the damage could have been mitigated.
Also in regards to Citifield. I’m starting to like the way it plays. In the warmer weather the ball carries enough. Not stupid like the Phillies bandbox thankfully but a well hit ball can get out. In colder weather it’s tough. So early season and in the playoffs (Pause to allow laughter to subside) this could be an issue. I do like the big outfield because there’s nothing like watching guys score from first on balls in the gaps or going for triples.
Saw Bobby went over to the Yankees palace. Beautiful place but an absolute joke to right.
Escobar for Supreme Court
August 20th, 2009
9:42 am
Logan has been with the team for 2 months, 10 innings pitched. Acosta has never pitched in a meaningful game (better choice is Medlen). If Norton reaches base he is pinch run for, burning 2 players for one purpose.
brent a.
August 20th, 2009
9:43 am
Fleming,
Even with a 3-man rotation being “standard”, when you have the best rotation in baseball, and easily go 4+ deep, are you taking fulla advantage of your team’s strength’s by going with a 3-man rotation?
fleming
August 20th, 2009
9:46 am
Escobar for Supreme Court
If you drop Logan or Acosta and add another player which end of the bench do you play him on once Prado gets healthy. And can this bench player pitch in extra inning games or do the Braves continue to abuse Moylan and Gonzo
Escobar for Supreme Court
August 20th, 2009
9:46 am
Somebody explain to me why we carry 12 pitchers and I will go to work.
Escobar for Supreme Court
August 20th, 2009
9:49 am
Thank you Fleming,
As stated, Logan has been with the team for 55 games and has pitched 10 innings. Has this helped more than Norton has hurt?
DirtyDawg
August 20th, 2009
9:49 am
Wonder if Bobby would consider starting Gorecki in left, or right, in tonight’s game against Santana in lieu of Anderson? Probably not since that damn ‘loaf’ has absolutely confounded me. I mean he even ‘beat out’ that ball he hit to short last night – sure the guy blew it by looking to second first, but I was convinced that he could still get ‘Jets’ Anderson…but nooooo. But I would like to see the kid get another opportunity in NY.
Hillbilly
August 20th, 2009
9:50 am
Anders, I’m with you on the band-box ball-parks. Johnny Damon is about to fly past his career high in homers at what? 35? 36 years old? And he’s hit 15 of his 22 in that joke of a stadium. What a joke.
RHR
August 20th, 2009
9:51 am
In an emergency situation wouldn’t you rather have a pitcher bat than a batter pitch?
DAP
August 20th, 2009
9:51 am
i think loaf needs to start tonight. dont stack the lineup with righties. santana is better against righties.
RHR
August 20th, 2009
9:54 am
I would think that you would want your best, proven lineup when you’re facing Santana. Loaf is a professional hitter, you know.
Wes
August 20th, 2009
9:57 am
DirtyDog- actually, I was surprised Gorecki didn’t start in right last night. Not complaining about what Diaz did last night at all, but we all know his track record vs. righties.
Shaun
August 20th, 2009
9:59 am
Nobody should disrespect Cox. He is a brilliant baseballman no doubt. But he has not been able to adapt to this teams strengths. I don’t think you can deny that some of his decisions have cost this team 5-7 wins.
How so? I seriously doubt any manager that is capable of being considered for a major league job can cost his team 5-7 wins.
Escobar for Supreme Court
August 20th, 2009
9:59 am
This is the reason fans are flumaxed with Cox’s use of players. The construct of this team does not jive with the manager’s decisions. If you go to the same 3 guys in the pen, why do you need Logan or Acosta. Medlen was a starter and accustomed to pitching but is used maybe once a week. Since he has been used more his ERA has dropped by over 1 Earned run. Another bench player (if you have to keep Norton) would really help. Remember how Cox was raving about Conrad and Medlen in Spring training. What happened Bobby?
Lew
August 20th, 2009
10:04 am
Supreme Court-We have twelve pitchers because if we carried 10 or 11, everyone would gripe even more that the pen was being overused.
Baba O'Riley
August 20th, 2009
10:05 am
Reid Gorecki’s walk up songs in Palm Beach included: Louisiana Saturday Night and Love Machine.
Erik
August 20th, 2009
10:06 am
DOB,
Which is more likely in your opinion. Do they braves pick up Huddy’s option or do they trade Kawakmi in the offseason? I would think it has to be an either/or situation. The braves have too tight of a budget to spend 19 mill on 2 starters and have one of them in the pen.
I would strongly support the Kawakami trade if it comes down to it. Kawakami has been average so far this season. He has certainly been good enough for a few pitching deprived teams to be interested. We may not get much but at least we free up 7 mill to pursue a bat. Our rotation would then feature 3 power arms(JJ, Javy, and Hanson) and two of the top sinker ball pitchers around. Plus, think about how many innings that rotation would eat…. it would be a shot in the arm to our pen.
Lew
August 20th, 2009
10:09 am
Erik-I don’t know if this will figure into the decision or not, but Kawakami is signed for two more years-Hudson and Vazquez for one more.
Roachy
August 20th, 2009
10:09 am
Adam LaRoche needs to be resigned. The dude has been awesome for us and has brought some fun back to this clubhouse. It sure is better then having that stone face Casey Kotchman around.
DMac
August 20th, 2009
10:10 am
Why don’t people just admit to the reality of the situation? The Atlanta Braves ownership (such as it is) does not care about baseball. The team’s front office is in complete denial that Bobby Cox has overstayed his usefulness, and they refuse to admit that a managerial change is needed in order to right the ship, no matter how much Cox proves this to be the case by his continuous poor judgment. This organization is a mess. Why won’t sports writers write the truth? Are you afraid of losing all of your perks with the team?
Escobar for Supreme Court
August 20th, 2009
10:11 am
Lew,
Bobby only carried 11 pitchers when we were winning. What happened Bobby?
dogsbrekky
August 20th, 2009
10:12 am
Would love to see an NLCS where Smoltz with the Cards is coming out of the bullpen against us with a 3-2 lead and McCann lights him up with a 2 run hr to win game 7……. woo hoo
Lew
August 20th, 2009
10:12 am
Supreme Court-Fans flummoxed by Bobby’s moves? Dude (or not), fans get flummoxed getting out of bed in the morning, picking up their mail, or trying to find parking.
fleming
August 20th, 2009
10:14 am
Escobar for Supreme Court
You remember the Dodgers series and the extra inning game there. Both teams carry 12 pitchers but at the end of the game all relief pitchers for both teams had been used up. If I remember right KK went to the bullpen in case he was needed and the Dodgers actually used one of their starters.
Joe Fan
August 20th, 2009
10:15 am
My concern now is that Cox having recognized Medlin’s ability will over use him. I would much rather see Medlin used correctly and become a starter next season. The Braves have numerous contract issues to resolve in the offseason that will effect the starting lineup, starting pitching and the relief core. One or two of the current group of starters will be used to acquired a much needed upgrade in the corner outfield slots and to acquire a young talented 3rd baseman for the inevitable phasing out of Chipper. Don’t believe there is anyway the Braves will not dangle Lowe, Vazquez and KK as trade bait and I fully expect them to release Hudson, based on his body of rehab work, rather than exercise his 1 year $10 mil. option.
dogsbrekky
August 20th, 2009
10:16 am
Erik, Kawakami has had but one BAD start in his last 10.. and has beaten several “big name” pitchers..
what is average about that ?
McFann ;Ô;
August 20th, 2009
10:18 am
Shamus–
Thanks! Yeah, BMac is starting to look like BMac again…Soon those “hard hit balls” are gonna find gaps instead of gloves! Lookin’ forward to it!
DOB McCann said his swing’s stunk lately…
Aw, poor guy…hey, at least he uh…ya know…admitted as much (no offense, BMac
).
…but he worked in the cage the past few days and felt like he got something worked out.
Boo-yah! Sure has looked like it…really stinks that they’re facing Santana tonight.
Seems like every time he seems to be getting back into the swing of things they face a tough lefty. Sheesh…
Necromancer–
Add Jon Miller to that list and you’ve really got something going…
Actually, to me the MOST annoying guy in the world is…ah, I better not. No politics on that Blog…
McFann ;Ô;
August 20th, 2009
10:21 am
dogsbrekky @ 10:12–
That would be really sweet! Oh mann…I would LOVE that!!
The Braves play the Cardinals in September. I wanna see Smoltz pitch and give up back-to-back homers to Chipper and McCann!
But, now that I said that “out loud”, so to speak, he’s gonna fan them both…
Wes
August 20th, 2009
10:22 am
Please silence the “TRADE KAWAKAMI” talks. You people that keep bringing it up……..would you trade FOR a pitcher who makes 8 Mill and has the numbers KK does?
No? Didn’t think so. We’re stuck with him. Deal with it.
Escobar for Supreme Court
August 20th, 2009
10:22 am
Okay, all good arguments to carry 12 pitchers. My problem lies squarely on the shoulders of Norton. Apparently Bobby feels that since a guy has been a major leaguer he’s always a major leaguer. (not True) As Leo Deroucher once said about the NY Giants after reviewing their roster: “Nice guys finish last”
DAP
August 20th, 2009
10:23 am
lew
i think contracts will factor into the decision…i mentioned the other day that the contracts right now are tapered, so we are only replacing one pitcher per year for the next several years.
if we trade kawakami and keep both hudson and vazquez, we have to replace two very good pitchers next offseason.
now, this might not be a huge deal, since we will have $24mil coming off the books…we could probably just extend one of them and then bring in medlen for the other spot. but, it is convenient to have your starter’s contracts tapered like that…
dogsbrekky
August 20th, 2009
10:23 am
McFann – Smoltz in St Louis will be very interesting, as they have that awesome pitching coach…
They have Carpenter, Wainwright and Pineiro looking GREAT this year. If anyone can get Smoltz back on track it is them..
Anders
August 20th, 2009
10:23 am
Dogsbrekky – Not for nothing but I wouldn’t want to see John Smoltz anywhere near the mound against my team in the playoffs – I don’t care how old he is now. The guy is money.
Shaun
August 20th, 2009
10:23 am
DMac, who cares if ownership cares about baseball? As long as they put a decent amount of money into the team and keep guys like Wren at the helm? At least if the ownership doesn’t care, they aren’t trying to make decisions instead of relying on baseball people to make decisions.
The organization is a mess? The team is probably going to win somewhere between 86-88 games. Their most valuable players are very young or under contract through at least next year or both. They have a young “true ace” in Tommy Hanson. They have perhaps the best prospect in baseball, who happens to be only 20-years-old and will probably be ready for the majors on Opening Day of next season.
As far as Bobby Cox, how can anyone make objective arguments for or against keeping Cox? It’s impossible to quantify a manager’s impact. All I can say is the Braves were one of the best teams in baseball for most of his rein and most baseball “insiders”–players, coaches, other managers, front office personnel, the media–think he’s one of if not the best manager in the game; that’s basically all we have to go by.
Escobar for Supreme Court
August 20th, 2009
10:26 am
So we have a nice little organization, a model organization. But don’t model organizations win.
fleming
August 20th, 2009
10:27 am
Wes
Ash the Mets if they would take KK and his 8 mil over Perez and his contract or the Phillies if they would take KK and his 8 mil over Jamie Moyer and his contract.
McFann ;Ô;
August 20th, 2009
10:28 am
dogsbrekky–
Yeah, I was actually kinda surprised that the Cardinals got him…didn’t think they needed pitching!
I’m sure he’ll do OK for them…better than he did for Boston, anyway. As for those back-to-back homers…[happy sigh], I cann dream, can’t I? (Though I can’t control my dreams like some people cann…)
FL anders
August 20th, 2009
10:28 am
The organization is a mess? The team is probably going to win somewhere between 86-88 games. Their most valuable players are very young or under contract through at least next year or both. They have a young “true ace” in Tommy Hanson. They have perhaps the best prospect in baseball, who happens to be only 20-years-old and will probably be ready for the majors on Opening Day of next season.
If the Mets were healthy, the Braves wouldn’t have that many wins.
Wes
August 20th, 2009
10:29 am
no, fleming, they wouldn’t. because they’re not going to be able to get those contracts off of their books, so NO, they won’t take KK on.
DAP
August 20th, 2009
10:30 am
weswould you trade FOR a pitcher who makes 8 Mill and has the numbers KK does?
i think its conceivable that a team that needs pitching would be willing to trade for a slightly above average pitcher with two years and $15mil left on his contract. his W-L doesn say it, but Kenshin has actually pitched pretty well this season.
Lew
August 20th, 2009
10:30 am
Supreme Court-We no longer have Glavine, Smoltz and Maddux pitching 8 innings a night or occasionally completing games for us. We have ONE eight inning complete game this year.
Times have changed. I haven’t taken the time to check all the teams, but would be willing to bet that if not all of them, then most have 12-13 man rotations- it’s just the way things are done now.
Until and unless plans like Nolan Ryan’s in Texas are implemented, where the pitchers are being brought up in the minors pitching more innings, then the only real solution (which I liked when Keith Hernandez and Ron Darling spoke of it last night) is to add two players to the active roster (to keep the Player’s Assoc. happy) and dumping the DH in the AL.
This would go a long ways towards expanding the bench, keeping the larger rotation and evening out the leagues. Makes too much sense to be implemented by Bud Light, though.
Wes
August 20th, 2009
10:32 am
DAP – 120 pitches through 5 innings in 85$% of your starts is not pitching ‘well.’ Especially on a Braves team where 8 Mill mean a hell of a lot. He was brought in to be a SOLID number 3. He’s been a managable #5 at best.
fleming
August 20th, 2009
10:32 am
Wes just saying people complain about KK and his 8 mil when there are others making more who would love to have his numbers which in reality aren’t that bad if you look at them.
Anders
August 20th, 2009
10:32 am
Lew- Ron Darling has been talking about just that for a while. He basically feels that pitchers are way to coddled now and its hurt the overall game. I happen to agree.
"You all are Cox apologists"
August 20th, 2009
10:33 am
42 GAMES LEFT,
If the Braves are serious about making the playoffs, I think they should be thinking 30-12 to get in. The Rockies currently have a 4 game lead with a lot of games left against LAD and SF. The Braves have most of their games against FLA, PHIL, NYM, and WASH. If we can’t beat up on our division foes, look forward to a 4TH consecutive season of MISSING THE PLAYOFFS. Think about it this way, at least if we don’t make the playoffs then COX won’t return.
Lew
August 20th, 2009
10:35 am
Joe Fan-What numerous contract issues? You mean Hudson’s option, whether or not to try to retain either Gonzo or Soriano and who to get to play first?
I’m thinking that is nowhere near the obstacle of obtaining our rotation this past winter was.
fleming
August 20th, 2009
10:35 am
Lew
It’s been years since the Braves only went with 11 man staff. Somewhere around 92-93 I think. There has even been times especially early in the year they went with 13 man staffs.
Escobar for Supreme Court
August 20th, 2009
10:36 am
Lew,
Agreed!
Do you think Bobby continues to make in game decisions as if he still had those 3 guys? Lowe 3 2/3 9 hits 8 runs?
RHR
August 20th, 2009
10:37 am
Joe Fan – satire, right? I hate when I can’t tell for sure.
Lew
August 20th, 2009
10:37 am
Anders-I agree, too, but it isn’t something that can be turned around just by requiring pitchers to pitch more. They need to work into it gradually.
Wayne in Utah
August 20th, 2009
10:38 am
And why, pray tell, would Cox not return if we don’t make the playoffs? Maybe he would think that he was one more year away from getting this team back on track and to the playoffs. Nice try.
DMac
August 20th, 2009
10:38 am
Has anyone been watching the Braves games this year? If you have, how can you miss the idiotic moves (and lack thereof) of Bobby Cox? Never mind that he cost the team at least two World Series titles with his “play the veteran” mentality. Yes, he’s a player’s manager alright! The players love him. Too bad for the fans that his “players first” approach gets in the way of WINNING! Winning is what baseball is supposed to be about! The organization is a mess, because they have no owner to hold the front office and Cox to account, and they have two Cox cronies in the front office, who will never admit that he is long past his usefulness. That’s why the organization is a mess. Yes, they have some good young talent, but they need a manager who is in touch with what it takes to WIN and who will make that the priority. Cox however, is viewed as untouchable by his buddies John and Frank. Catch 22… So the team will continue to suck until either Cox dies, decides to retire, or is sold to a real baseball owner (a Ted Turner type of individual).
David O'Brien
August 20th, 2009
10:38 am
DAP: I agree with your 10:30 a.m. about Kawakami and Lowe and the trade possibilities. I think any team that looks closely at the numbers, including the huge difference in run support (Lowe’s in top 10 in NL, Kawakami is second-worst in the majors), would rather trade for Kawakami and his remaining two years and Lowe and his remaining three at nearly twice per season more than Kawakami’s salary.
K.K. has not been badly at all. Just look at his numbers. Hard to get wins when the team scores one or no runs in so many of your starts.
Wes
August 20th, 2009
10:39 am
Flem – you would “LOVE” to have and under .500 pitcher with an ERA over 4 in the National League?
I’d love to play your team.
Anders
August 20th, 2009
10:39 am
Lew- On a similar note Hernandez feels there’s way to much information technology gathering and dissemination to the players. What he means is that the players used to gather information through experience. Facing pitchers and making mental notes etc. Same when they’re fielding. He thinks now because it’s all so automated and downloaded for them that they’ve lost some of the instinctive response during the game. They’re not naturally thinking for themselves in game situations.
It’s a very interesting concept that has some merit I think. I know you’re not a Hernandez fan but the guy comes from the tail end of old school baseball and I think he knows what he’s talking about.
Shaun
August 20th, 2009
10:39 am
So we have a nice little organization, a model organization. But don’t model organizations win.
Not every season. All organizations go through up years and down years. Even the Red Sox–one of the smartest organizations perhaps in the history of the game and an organization loaded with resources–finished third in 2007.
If the Mets were healthy, the Braves wouldn’t have that many wins.
The Braves are 6-5 against the Mets. What do you think the Braves would have done if the Mets were healthy? So the Braves are currently a 60-win team instead of a 63-win team if the Mets are healthy? Not to mention the Braves are 8-4 against the team that could end up as the best in the National League. So who’s to say things would be any different if the Mets were healthy? I don’t see how the Mets being healthy would drastically change the Braves record, if at all.
Wayne in Utah
August 20th, 2009
10:41 am
I ain’t the sharpest pencil in the drawer, but some posters on here make me look like the reincarnation of Albert F Einstein!
Lew
August 20th, 2009
10:41 am
fleming-I know-that was my point. It’s the way things are done. I grew up with the likes of Koufax and Gibson pitching complete games every time out. That was then and this is now. There’s just no comparison.
chris from md
August 20th, 2009
10:41 am
The Braves continue to show great resillency. Three examples:
1. Devasting loss to the Dodgers a couple of Thursdays ago– blown lead in the ninth. The very next day, they come from behind in the ninth in win in extras.
2. Another Soriano loss in the 9th last Friday. The very next day, they come from behind and beat their closer in the 9th.
3. Tuesday, an 8-run inning does us in. The very next day, they have their own 8-run inning.
The best way to live and die by this team, in my opinion, is not day by day but week to week. We went 5-2 two weeks ago. Then had a 4-2 homestand. It would be great to go 4-2 against the Mets and Marlins. But tonight will be difficult.
Chris from MD
DAP
August 20th, 2009
10:43 am
wes
i suppose we all have our definitions of pitching well, but KK is averaging over 5 and a half innings per start. and only in 9 of his 22 starts has he not pitched into the 6th inning.
its true that he doesnt throw a ton off innings like some of our other starters, but its also true that he is worth his price tag, and a team who didnt have the pitching depth atlanta has (most of them) would certainly listen if they could get a starter like KK. my only point is that he isnt untradeable. it is certainly possible that a team would want him and would trade for him.
Wayne in Utah
August 20th, 2009
10:44 am
Let’s hope that KJ and Loaf gets starts tonight. Would love to see KJ back in the 7th or 8th slot for a shot at a tough lefty. Doubt it will happen, with Infante having a good night last night.
Later folks.
Steve from OH
August 20th, 2009
10:46 am
London Calling–brilliant stuff, man!
MFin04
August 20th, 2009
10:47 am
Great game last night. I think a lot of us felt like a blow out was necessary for this team to get over that horrible 8 run inning the night before. 15 runs oughta do the trick. Hopefully we saved a few more runs for today’s game.
Escobar for Supreme Court
August 20th, 2009
10:47 am
Lew,
I only make this point because there has not been any derivation from this Moylan 7th, Gonzales 8th, Soriano 9th. I for one was a little perplexed @ Soriano in the 9th against Howard when O’flaherty had struck him and Utley out the week before. I think we would agree that if Logan is on the team, then he should’ve pitched more than 10 innings by now. He had a horrible Spring and Bobby can’t forget those performances. I don’t buy this propaganda about giving everyone a fair shake when Conrad homered to win a game in Colorado and was hitting .340 in 35 at bats but replaced by a guy hitting .140 in 70 at bats. Believe it, Bobby does have his favorites (KJ, Frenchy)
Macon Braves (RIP)
August 20th, 2009
10:48 am
Love the Warner Robins Little League love last night. Girls won the Little League Softball World Series last night and the boys are still alive in the Little League World Series as well. GO WARNER ROBINS!!!!
Anders
August 20th, 2009
10:48 am
All this get rid of Cox talk is mind bending. I don’t have a dog in that race but I know enough to say he’s not going anywhere in the next year or two unless he decides to. He won 14 straight divisions. The team is re-tooling and appears to be on the precipice of being a division contender again(certainly next season). Do you really think the Braves organization will give him his walking papers at this juncture? Besides the fact that it would be organizational insanity to cut the head off the top of the field level mgt at this point he’s certainly earned the right to see this through at least for a couple of more years.
I know I wasn’t asked but I thought an outside opinion might help.
Lew
August 20th, 2009
10:49 am
It really makes me crazy that people think the three years we’ve been out of the playoffs is some huge drought or something. People, the 14 straight titles was the aberration-NOT missing the playoffs for three seasons.
GO check out all the other MLB teams and see how long most have been out of the running. Before their recent string of good seasons, the Red Sox sucked on a monumental scale. The Cubs still can’t get through the first round of the playoffs (and not even THAT far this year). The Phillies went to the playoffs two years after missing out for what? Fifteen years?
The Mets with their recent teams went once (in over 20 years). The Dodgers a couple times in the past ten or more. How about the Brewers? The Astros? The Pirates? Not since Sid Slid. The Twins, Indians, Tigers, etc.? The Royals? Not since the days of Brett and Patek. And let’s just agree that the Yankees buy their championships.
Y’all are just spoiled and impatient. The playoffs on an annual basis is not a God Given right like so many here seem to think.
McFann ;Ô;
August 20th, 2009
10:50 am
Wayne–
Yeah, they should start…I would also advocate Ross starting only because it’d be a shame for BMac to have a rough night against Santana after having such a good game yesterday.
But yer not gonna have a rough night, are you, BMac? Nah…think he used up all his rough games during that slump.
DMac
August 20th, 2009
10:52 am
All of you Cox supporters, the Braves front office and Bobby himself can just keep on ignoring the truth that a new manager is needed. You all know that any other manager in baseball would be long gone by now. Cox’s situation is unique, in that he has the division streak as a big fat cushion under his big fat rear end. That’s the only reason he’s still the manager. He should thank God daily for an absentee owner and his good buddies John and Frank.
Wes
August 20th, 2009
10:52 am
ONLY 9 out of 22. So, basically almost HALF?!?!?! K, enough said about KK. Like I said, he was brought here to be a #2 or 3. Not a #5.
DOB, KJ has some pretty good numbers vs. Santana doesn’t he? Wouldn’t mind seeing him in there at 2B tonight.
McFann ;Ô;
August 20th, 2009
10:53 am
London Calling [McCann’s] been slumping for about 3 weeks, that’s all.
Actually, more like 6 or 7 weeks–dating back to June 24th. He did have an 11-game hitting streak July 9 through the 23rd, though.
MFin04
August 20th, 2009
10:54 am
I don’t understand the fascination with Kelly Johnson. The dude has been awful all year long.
Omar Infante is hitting .356 with a .404 OBP against lefties…(and went 3 for 5 or 3 for 6 last night)
Kelly Johnson is hitting .316 with a .354 OBP against lefties
I’m fine with Loaf playing, but dear Lord the experiment of him hitting 2nd should be over.
Shaun
August 20th, 2009
10:54 am
DAP: I agree with your 10:30 a.m. about Kawakami and Lowe and the trade possibilities. I think any team that looks closely at the numbers, including the huge difference in run support (Lowe’s in top 10 in NL, Kawakami is second-worst in the majors), would rather trade for Kawakami and his remaining two years and Lowe and his remaining three at nearly twice per season more than Kawakami’s salary.
Good points. I don’t think Lowe’s contract is a particularly bad one considering Lowe, while he’s not likely to contend for a Cy Young, is also not likely to pitch poorly. Lowe has better control and a better ability to avoid the long-ball and goes deeper into games. But Kawakami has a pretty big edge in strikeout rate. Believe it or not Kawakami has been slightly underrated. According to all objective measures of value, Lowe is only slightly ahead.
fleming
August 20th, 2009
10:55 am
Wes look at the stats of all pitchers in the national league. Won loss record when you have the 2nd worse run support in the league is irreverent. ERA while not necessarily a good stat to use can I guess be a comparison. KK’s ERA better than Hamels, Harang, Lowe, almost the entire Phillies starting staff, almost the entire Mets starting staff.
"You all are Cox apologists"
August 20th, 2009
10:55 am
DMAC,
Your post at 10:38am is RIGHT ON THE MONEY. Too bad that others don’t feel the same way. Well, at least if we don’t make the playoffs he probably won’t come back.
GboroBravo
August 20th, 2009
10:57 am
Ex-Giant Burress pleads guilty
WR Plaxico Burress has pleaded guilty to a weapons charge under a deal to serve two years in prison.
David O'Brien
August 20th, 2009
10:58 am
Wes: Against Santana, Matt Diaz is 11-for-20 with a homer, Kelly Johnson is 7-for-18, Chipper Jones is 5-for-14, and Yunel Escobar is 5-for-15.
McCann is 5-for-19 with a homer.
Steve from OH
August 20th, 2009
10:58 am
Has anyone ever considered looking at Infante’s overall body of work?
DAP
August 20th, 2009
10:58 am
wes again, an average over 5 and a half innings per start. that aint bad. oh, and i just took out the start against the yankees where he got beaned in the neck. that brings his average up to 5.8 innings per start. thats pretty close to derek lowe’s average.
but this is all beside the point that he is definitely a tradeable piece if the braves want to go that way.
"You all are Cox apologists"
August 20th, 2009
10:59 am
Anders,
You’re an IDIOT sir. Answer this question, should Cox manage forever? At least a couple more years? Are you out of your freaking mind?????
DMac
August 20th, 2009
11:00 am
Thanks “YAA Cox Apologists.” It’s good to know someone else sees reality. I just can’t understand why everyone doesn’t.
Shaun
August 20th, 2009
11:01 am
You all know that any other manager in baseball would be long gone by now. Cox’s situation is unique, in that he has the division streak as a big fat cushion under his big fat rear end. That’s the only reason he’s still the manager.
And there is something wrong with this? Any manager who leads a team to 14 first-place finishes in 15 years should be allowed to hang ‘em up on his terms in my opinion.
KC
August 20th, 2009
11:02 am
Most everything Wren has done since taking over as GM has worked out beautifully. The jury is still out on Lowe at this point, I guess… but other than that, it’s been one success after another by Wren.
BUT… while it’s great to be good at what you do, it’s better to be good AND lucky. Wren has been both.
THANK GOD the Padres didn’t accept our offer for Peavy. Not just because Escobar is so important, or just because Peavy is hurt… no, I breathed a sigh of relief after looking at Peavy’s track record in big games.
And thank God Hampton didn’t take our offer. He’s got an ERA over 5.00, and now has a partially torn rotator cuff.
MFin04
August 20th, 2009
11:03 am
The Cox debate could go on forever but how many managers would have went to the playoffs 10+ straight years with the combo of Maddux, Smoltz, and Glavine? I would venture to say, a heck of a lot
Steve from OH
August 20th, 2009
11:04 am
Shaun–I don’t completely agree with that. Most of Lowe’s support-neurtal stats are a lot better than KK’s (with the exception of K/9 IIRC). Lowe also is the unluckier (?) of the two based on BABIP and LOB%. Lowe has a much lower FIP and tRA than KK.
Escobar for Supreme Court
August 20th, 2009
11:04 am
Frank gave Bobby a team that could’ve won a weak National League East this year. We are 8-4 against the division leading Phillies and a winning record against the best team (Dodgers). A starting rotation with the 3rd best ERA. I’m not saying you have to make the playoffs year after year, but you can’t toss away opportunities to make the playoffs either. Someone should be held accountable when opportunities are lost.
KC
August 20th, 2009
11:04 am
DOB, I’m betting it won’t matter than KJ is 7 for 18 against Santana, just as KJ’s .300+ avg. against lefties hasn’t mattered.
Bobby will go by the book. Santana’s a lefty, so KJ will sit.
I hope I’m wrong, but I doubt it.
Lew
August 20th, 2009
11:05 am
Supreme Court-If you truly believe that Bobby’s used Moylan, Gonzo and Soriano to the exclusion of all others, then maybe you need to go onto Baseball Reeference.com and check the game logs.
Bobby has rarely used Soriano on a back to back basis (with the exception of the recent 4 in a row) all season. In fact, last night was only the second time MFIKY pitched in the past eleven days. He routinely gets 3-5 days off-check it out. Since the middle of July, Gonzo has had 15 appearances and three times he went back to back days-hardly overwork. Moylan has publicly stated he is 100% back to normal and WANTS the ball whenever Bobby will let him pitch.
Yeah, the pen has many appearances, but how many of them were for more than an inning per appearance?
I still contend that if the Bullpen pitchers were worn out that they would ask for (and receive) time off. I would also be willing to bet that they are asked on a daily basis if they can go an inning or so, if needed. I doubt that any of our relief pitchers would claim overwork-at least not on a regular basis.
Mid Town Joe
August 20th, 2009
11:06 am
Any chance for a Hanson/Smoltz match-up? I’d love to see Tommy throw some high/tight cheese to Smoltz, then back it up with his nasty slider.
This would be a nice welcome back to the Ted.
braves70
August 20th, 2009
11:08 am
DMac is absolutely correct. The Cox apologists are what has held this team back from greater success through the years. Cox is basically in the same position that Connie Mack was in with the Philadelphia A’s. He won several pennants, gained fame and player respect, and for the last 20+ years of his 50 year reign did not win a thing. He even would call for players to pinch hit who retired years earlier.
Of course the A’s had an excuse that the Braves do not have: Connie Mack owned the team. We should stop calling them the Atlanta Braves and call them Cox’s Braves since he is apparently beyond all questioning or responsibility.
DMac
August 20th, 2009
11:10 am
All of this talk about player personnel among you reminds me of people busy rearranging the deck furniture while the Titanic was sinking. The Braves organization has one fundamental and fatal flaw- No Real Owner. Their corporate ownership doesn’t care about baseball, at all, not even a little bit! They are content to let John S. run the show without accountability. John is Bobby’s friend, and as long as Bobby wants a job, John is going to keep him around, no matter how many mistakes he makes and how many games he loses in the process. He justifies his loyalty by looking to Bobby’s fourteen division championships. Unfortunately, John is not objective enough to also consider the lack of world championships during that run, or the mounting number of completely stupid managerial decisions that Cox is making. This is what you sportswriters should be writing about, not about minutia like who has hit Santana best.
monty
August 20th, 2009
11:10 am
Wes, seems to have his mind made up and no amount of comparisons and or logic are going to change his mind. He obviously has something against KK, I can’t imagine what it is. I don’t believe the BRAves brought KK here with the idea of him being better than JJ.,Lowe,JV, in his first year in the big leagues. So, what would that make him? A number 4 starter? But forget which number he is, can anyone give a definitive 1-5 for us right now? We have 5 pitchers who on any given night can go out there and compete or pitch better than the other team’s number 1 guy! A good thing to have. Like many have said if KK had only gotten the league avg. in run support (whatever that is) Wes wouldn’t be saying what he’s been saying, or then again, maybe he still would .
Daslied
August 20th, 2009
11:10 am
Props to London Calling, great stuff.
Robert (Chipper Is The Best)
August 20th, 2009
11:10 am
Shaun, I can’t totally agree with that. That divison title streak ended four years ago. I don’t think you let any coach or manager go out on “their terms” if their presence is hurting the orginization. Again, I will reference when Jerry Jones fired Tom Landry. Everybody was up in arms and thought it was pure blasphemy. But, be honest. Was it the wrong decision? The Cowboys had been struggling for three or four years because Landry’s methods had become outdated.
I hope Cox is like JoPa at Penn St. and will endure a revival. I hope.
sportsmandh
August 20th, 2009
11:12 am
Hey DOB or anyone else with the info. I read earlier in the blog something about what Church said to some New York media about playing for Cox verse playing for the Mets. What did he say, is there a link to an article?
All I know is if I were Church I’d be pissed about the quotes from Maneul and the whole way they tried to rush him back out there after 2 concussions last year. And then now they say Wright is a ‘different animal’. Yet they’re conviently putting Wright on their DL b/c they’re not in contention and he’s their golden boy.
Wonder if they’d be rushing Wright back out there and expecting him to not miss a beat if they were in the race? And then if he didn’t meat expectations would they throw him under the bus and b!tch and moan about him? I seriously doubt it …
Anders
August 20th, 2009
11:14 am
Cox Apologist- No, Cox should not manage forever. I think I was pretty clear that he deserved a couple of more years. I never said forever.I am neither out of my mind or and idiot.
You are naive to think that Cox will be shown the door at this juncture. Had the Braves completely fallen on their face this season – maybe. Even then I wouldn’t be so sure. But they’ve over achieved so it’s irrelavent. I’m not here saying he’s the greatest manager of all time, but I can be objective enough to look at the situation that exists and give a reasonable read on it from my perspective. You I’m afraid have become blinded by your own single minded desire for his ouster.
Shaun
August 20th, 2009
11:15 am
KC, what’s Peavy’s track record in big games? He’s only pitched in two post-season games and neither went well. But that’s just two games against good Cardinal teams. Looking at his career numbers, he’s pitched his best regular season baseball in August and September/October. Not trying to prove a point; just wondering what makes you think there’s a problem with Peavy in big games.
I’m glad the Peavy trade didn’t go through either. I don’t think the failure to land him was about good luck for the Braves. If the Padres had asked for a reasonable return, the Braves would have complied. The failure was due to the Padres asking for too much, simple as that. To call it good luck is to downplay that Wren realized what the Padres were asking was too much.
charlotte_dawg
August 20th, 2009
11:15 am
hey DOB. Go to Nick’s Pizza in nearby Forest Hills. Also there’s a GREAT Greek place in Astoria called Opa Opa.
Shaun
August 20th, 2009
11:17 am
Robert (Chipper Is The Best), I think football is different from baseball. In football coaching strategies mean a great deal. In baseball most MLB managers’ strategies are generally going to be similar.
Escobar for Supreme Court
August 20th, 2009
11:17 am
Lew,
Again agreed! Still begs the question for a 12th pitcher if you keep a 1 dimensional player like Norton on the bench. Go to 11 pitchers and make your bench more versatile by adding a bench player or keep the 12th and dump Norton adding a more versatile bench player. It just gets back to this old school management of the 90’s when he had players that worked in his style. He dosn’t have those players now, but manages as if he did.
KC
August 20th, 2009
11:17 am
MFin04, with respect… what you just said is not accurate. Kelly has NOT been awful ALL year long. Granted, when the season is over, we will look back at his season totals and rightly deem it to be a career-worst year. But since he came back off the DL, he has been far from awful. He almost single-handedly won the LA series for us.
I know Infante kills lefties. But with KJ’s success vs lefties PLUS his success vs Santana, he should be in the lineup tonight. If it were up to me, this would be the lineup tonight (assuming Prado can’t go tonight):
1 – Infante LF
2 – Johnson 2B
3 – Jones 3B
4 – Diaz RF
5 – McCann C
6 – Escobar SS
7 – LaRoche 1B
8 – Gorecki or Church CF (there are pros and cons to going with either tonight)
richbrave
August 20th, 2009
11:18 am
JAVY VASQUEZ draws another tough assignment.
Anders
August 20th, 2009
11:18 am
I still contend that if the Bullpen pitchers were worn out that they would ask for (and receive) time off (Lew)
Don’t be so sure. I heard John Franco on the radio yesterday and he was talking about the Mets bullpen back in the late 90’s and he said when you got to this time of the year and were in the race you wouldn’t tell the skipper your arm was sore or tired unless it was serious. You wanted to be out there and you wanted to help your team anyway you could. He said it was up to the pitching coach to read into it for the manager.
"You all are Cox apologists"
August 20th, 2009
11:19 am
If Cox manages 3 more years, I think this team will self-implode. What has Cox done to warrant managing 3 more years other than constantly failing in the post season and destroying arms in the bullpen? The continuation of Cox managing this team is the definiton of insanity, doing the same things over and expecting a different result. Cox SUCKS!!!
MFin04
August 20th, 2009
11:19 am
Braves could play both Infante and KJ. Wow, I mean thinking outside the box and all. Both hit lefties well, Obviously Diaz isn’t coming out of the lineup after the tear he has been on, especially at Citi Field, but surely we could find a spot for Infante and KJ? It makes a lot more sense hitting Infante/KJ 1 and 2 then hitting KJ or Infante #1 and GA #2
Efrim
August 20th, 2009
11:20 am
KC, what’s Peavy’s track record in big games? He’s only pitched in two post-season games and neither went well. But that’s just two games against good Cardinal teams.
Wasn’t Peavy pitching with a broken rib against the Cards?
KC
August 20th, 2009
11:20 am
Shaun, I will grant you that it’s not a big sample size… but it’s a little bigger than you think.
Peavy also tanked in that one-game playoff a couple years ago against the Rockies. While it was technically the 163rd game of the reg. season, it was a postseason game.
And players universally say that the WBC has an October atmosphere, and his WBC stats were godawful.
METSFAN4LIFE
August 20th, 2009
11:20 am
Santana is going to cool of LaRoche’s bat. Braves lose.
CrimeDog
August 20th, 2009
11:21 am
Anders-
Good point. No one has ever mentioned Roger McDowell when whining about how the bullpen is used. McDowell has FAR much more interaction with the pitchers. If someone was being “worked to death” (which I don’t think they are), it would be just as much on McDowell, and perhaps more. It would almost be like blaming the head football coach for calling dumb plays while the offensive coordinator sat in the corner twiddling his thumbs.
KC just did it
August 20th, 2009
11:22 am
He put “WBC” and “meaningful” in the same sentence.
MFin04
August 20th, 2009
11:22 am
KC, I agree, makes more sense to have both Infante and KJ in the lineup. If for no other reason than they atleast give us the ability to score runs with speed. Not that Infante is blazing, but in comparison to GA, he is. There is a lot the Braves could do with a 1/2 of Infante/KJ at the top of the order. You might even think of putting KJ at the 1 spot because of his speed. 1 or 2 runs might be all we get tonight, so the more speed the better.
KC
August 20th, 2009
11:23 am
EFRIM, please see my last post. Every time (that I’m aware of) that he’s ever pitched in an October-type atmosphere, he’s tanked.
Anders
August 20th, 2009
11:23 am
Ah yes, the WBC. I hate that thing. Many Mets go to the WBC. I believe every relevant Met who went to the WBC anded up on the DL this year(Wright shouldn’t be counted). Hard to draw direct correlation but if I owned a team I wouldn’t send anyone ever again.
richbrave
August 20th, 2009
11:23 am
I infer from DOB’s analysis of SANTANA vs. a bevy of BRAVES hitters that we beat him like a tom-tom whenever he doesn’t bring his best stuff. Here’s hoping he has a huge hangover at game-time. GO BRAVES.
DMac
August 20th, 2009
11:24 am
Keep rearranging those deck chairs boys. There’s no such thing as the iceberg.
Oklahomabrave
August 20th, 2009
11:24 am
I guess the braves recent run since the break has nothing to do with cox. How about putting some of the blame on the players that weren’t producing early in the season. Cox came into the season with a bunch of questions in the outfield. I will take a players coach over anything else since that’s really all that matters. They’re called “managers” for a reason. They may have to make one tough decision a week as far as the outcome of a game. Oh, and if it backfires you people would bitch anyway. Keep trying to find reasons that our hof manager should be gone but you’re very stupid to think he’s the only reason that this team hasn’t made the postseason in three years.
McFann ;Ô;
August 20th, 2009
11:24 am
KC–
That lineup looks good…
KC
August 20th, 2009
11:25 am
MFin04, well… KJ does run well, but he has never displayed any kind of comfort level in the leadoff spot. I don’t know where to find such stats to display them here, but I have seen splits of KJ’s numbers in each spot in the batting order in which he’s hit… and leadoff has been his worst work.
He’s really far more at ease when hitting 6th or 7th, but with Prado out, he could certainly hit 2nd.
Anders
August 20th, 2009
11:25 am
Crimedog- You know where Franco said they get the read on the BP guys? Throwing before games and on the side etc. That’s where guys baby their ailments or can’t let it go. In the game the adrenaline takes over and they almost always look normal.
But if a guy is ailing he might baby it on the side. Good stuff from the Staten Island native.
Wes
August 20th, 2009
11:26 am
DOB – thank you, sir
monty – if you think the Braves were banking on Vazquez having this type of year before the season, then you know nothing about baseball. I’m not talking about what is NOW, i’m talking about BEFORE the season when he was signed.
Someone said I have something against KK??? yeah, because we’re real close personally….
Nothin against him at all if he pitches well. I’m just tired of people thinking our #5 starter who makes 8 Mill a season is a prime trade piece.
wjones
August 20th, 2009
11:27 am
Well, at least some folks are consistent. Cox loses, and they want him gone. Win 15-2, they still complain about him and want him gone. At least you are being true to your boo.
braves70
August 20th, 2009
11:27 am
Following the 1960 season the Yankees made an unpopular but necessary move in not renewing the contract of Casey Stengle who, in their opinion, had become too old and out of touch with the game. Bobby’s personal he