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920 comments Add your comment
DirtyDawg
September 18th, 2009
6:37 am
Oh yeah, I meant to add…does anybody else think that the picture of Tom Glavine they’re showing here for the vote on who made the worst exit from Atlanta looks exactly like that guy from South Caroline – Joe Wilson? Does to me…which immediately made me want to pick Glavine in this poll – even though the one they featured – that coach of the swine from Arkansas – do we need shots before we venture into Arkansas?
Earl (Mr. Atlanta Baseball...) Mann
September 18th, 2009
7:22 am
Didn’t have the Wild Card back when we were winning all those Southern League Banners…but…I will tell you my honest opinion…
WILD CARD WINNER…2009…NATIONAL LEAGUE…RECORD…will be…91 – 71…
Another thing…Atlanta and Colorado both finish with this record and we will have a Monday…10/5…one game playoff…but where? Hope we get it here at the TED…cold weather could really be a problem in 2 1/2 weeks in Denver?
Atlanta goes 13 – 3…(more like 20 – 3 in reality) to force the playoffs…Colorado goes 8 – 7…(I will put the word in to the man upstairs…to insure this to be true…no problem…)
Wouldn’t that be something…
And after we beat those Damn Yankees to win the 2009 World Series…will someone spread a little “Southern Comfort” around the old magnolia tree over at the old park on Ponce de Leon…(if it is still standing). My ashes are thirsty for another championship in this city!!!
BELIEVE
Richard Nieh
September 18th, 2009
7:24 am
Call me old fashion; I still think W-L record is one of the most important stats for the pitcher. It does not only show his performance, which is normally hold true that if a pitcher wants to win, he needs to pitch better, but also show how the game was played. When we judge a pitcher, we have to judge his performance to win games rather than judging how good his stuff is. If a pitcher keeps losing games 2-3, 1-2, it means he can win those games, it is just some momentary lapse cost him those games and we all know that the kind of record won’t last forever if he keeps his standards up. If the same pitcher loses his composure and starts to lose game by giving up 4 runs, than even though his ERA may still be low in the season, I will still say he does not have what it takes to win. Javier Vazquez is having his career year despite his 13-9 record, which is not bad at all but in most of his career, he is not the pitcher has what it takes to win games, not a standard of an ace. If he keeps throwing gems and give up 2 runs or less every outing, he will convert some of those loses to wins, but the fact is that he is still sometimes vulnerable to big innings.
In Lowe’s case, there are so many games he gave up 3 runs or more, but most of his wins he gave up 3 runs or less and makes the pitches when he needs to. Sometimes he gave up 5 runs when Braves score even more for him but that is a rare case because Braves’ offense always has been abysmal all year long. However, we all know that couple bad outings will kill your ERA stats. The fact is that the most important thing in any professional competition is to win games, what is the better stats to see the W-L record?
NCBravesFan
September 18th, 2009
9:08 am
Should be a great series this weekend. You know the Phils are going to be fired up, knowing if they can beat the Braves they can effectively knock them out of the playoff chase.
ltdbrave
September 18th, 2009
10:00 am
The Braves are better off without Chipper in the lineup. With his striking out and 20+ errors, he does not need to be in the lineup. As far as pitchin, I hope the Braves trade or can trade Lowe and not Vasquez. Why keep a below average pitcher and get rid of a very good pitcher. Does not make sense to me except for trade value. If the Braves would spend some cash in the free agent market instead of giving Chipper an extension at $10-$11 million a year, they could have a good outfield. Instaed, Wren waits around and picks up the crumbs in free agency.
McFann ;Ô;
September 18th, 2009
10:16 am
Thanks for all the quotes and things, Chief! Great stuff!
Soph “He’s one of the guys everybody loves in this clubhouse,” said Jurrjens…McFann’s gonna love that quote.
Oh yeah!
Loved that whole quote from JJ (about BMac playing hard everyday, even when banged up)! Really good stuff…and he’s so right. That’s why I sometimes feel bad when I jump all over BMac when he’s going 0-20 or 5-46…guess that’s a lot out of frustration, but still…
Katie Who doesn’t love Mac?
Paul Lentz! Soph said Mixxo, and that is true as well…but Paul hates his guts as a catcher with a SERIOUS passion (well, so does Mixxo…)
McFann ;Ô;
September 18th, 2009
10:19 am
Fooey! Not J.A. Happ! Dangit! What are the Fillies trying to do–ruin all the fun?
Happens all too often…
jeffrey d
September 18th, 2009
10:21 am
The periodontist is some mean stuff, DOB. I had to get some gum tissue grafting done a few years ago…that was terrible. I wouldn’t wish that on anybody. Hope that’s not your case…
dogsbrekky
September 18th, 2009
10:22 am
Kawakami is well priced at $7M, just go and look at other mlb pitching contracts….
This is a interesting one and try not to laugh too much.. if Huddy is okay,. could anyone see JJ + Prado to the Brewers for Braun…
Rock On......
September 18th, 2009
10:23 am
richbrave…..I can see Anders’ point/opinion and I actually think Anders brings a reasoned post much of the time. Agreed totally that KJ would benefit from a change. However, if you don’t feel that KK/KJ will bring the bat we need are you suggesting we trade Vazquez, insert Hudson, and pray that Hudson doesn’t incur problems. That is a huge gamble with the pitching and I don’t think that seeing Matt Holliday in LF will make me feel a lot better about that gamble.
Hey, it may all work out just great but let’s get LaRoche signed first. Let’s get a bigger sampling from Hudson before an option pick-up is warranted.
Brian
September 18th, 2009
10:23 am
The Braves have won seven in a row for the first time since July of 2006. If they win tonight, it’ll be their first 8-game win streak since July of 2003. Jung Bong and Shane Reynolds won games during that streak. They haven’t won as many as 9 in a row since April/May of 2000, when they won 15 in a row. Bruce Chen and Terry Mulholland were both 3-0 in that streak!
monty
September 18th, 2009
10:24 am
Willy Wally
“With Schafer Cox didn’t have options.”
Agree with most of your post, except that point. Send the kid down to AAA let him get his confidence back, bring up Blanco or play Infante.
Rock On......
September 18th, 2009
10:27 am
dogsbrekky….I hope the rest of the denizens aren’t laughing hysterically at your 10:22 because I just can’t quit. Dude, seriously!
richbrave
September 18th, 2009
10:30 am
LEW:
I would hate to lose VASQUEZ, but want HUDSON back, off what I’ve seen so far this season. Frankly, I prefer VASQUEZ to HUDSON if I had to choose. Here’s hoping the BRAVES won’t have to. But I don’t see VASQUEZ, HUDSON AND KAWAKAMI all being here next spring. LOWE’s only in the discussion if we get a huge right-handed bat that’s under contract, and then I’m guessing we would have to eat part of his salary. And JURRGENS and HANSON don’t even enter into this discussion. MEDLIN, maybe. It’s early. I’ll wait for the season final to make up my mind.
Jeff R
September 18th, 2009
10:30 am
richbrave… possibly, but I don’t think Chipper would be prompted to talk about retiring unless he had concerns about his performance more than slumping.
But, barring something unforseen, Chipper’s going to be the Braves everyday third baseman next season. Hope he’s only slumping, and hope he bounces back.
dcp
September 18th, 2009
10:30 am
Is anyone else worried about the way Jurrjens throws his arms up in the air when the Braves have a defensive miscue. He did it in Philly when Anderson dropped the fly ball and again last night with Diaz. He needs to be careful about showing up his defense. I am sorry he has had poor run support, but he needs to watch himself with those overt reactions to plays. Good for him to get a win.
McFann ;Ô;
September 18th, 2009
10:32 am
DOB OK, I’m headed to 10 a.m. periodontist checkup.
Ugh! That does NOT sound like fun.
Can’t STAND the dentist…
Rock On......
September 18th, 2009
10:33 am
Well the blog is going time-warp all over the place. My response to Anders is now well at the top of the page. Gotta run anyway but I will leave Lew to the Hudson/Vazquez debate. I am 100% in agreement with him and can’t realyy add anything but…ditto.
Is it Groundhog Day…yet again.
dcp
September 18th, 2009
10:34 am
Is anyone else concerned about the way Jair throws his arms up in the air like a 2 year old when the Braves make a defensive miscue in the field. He did it in Philly when Anderson dropped that fly ball and again last night when Diaz was not able to catch the fly to right. I am sorry his run support has been low and glad he got the win, but he needs to check himself if he wants to walk through the clubhouse and get respect. You cannot publicly show up your defense like that.
dogsbrekky
September 18th, 2009
10:35 am
Kelly Johnson is 27, he issupposed to be getting better, his fielding is below average and his hitting … well let us look
OPS for the last 3 seasons read 831, 795, 693… which part of that trend and current yr performance dictates he is a good hitter… potential yes, but this is mlb not high school… he has had every chance and muffed them all
BossLady
September 18th, 2009
10:36 am
Last night the cameras were on Bobby Cox and it appeared that he was overcome with glee and pride. It appeared that he was so happy for his players like a proud and elated daddy (not father). The players coach reputation was clear on his face. That is a sight I will never forget.
I had that gum surgery too a couple of years ago. I went back to my office sat there and boo hooed like a little baby. That was Friday, moved to my new home that weekend still boo hooing. You are so right not even your worst enemy deserves that.
avocado
September 18th, 2009
10:40 am
Why would you not keep the rotation that kept you in the contest?
And that, in spite of the best contrary efforts of some of the other players some nights?
Aren’t things much better with Hudson’s return?
fastasballs
September 18th, 2009
10:45 am
Hopefully the Braves light up Happ tonight. For one the team needs the victory & the other reason is for Hanson to get in better position to win the ROY award. Last night the MLB network listed the top three candidates for the award & Tommy wasn’t even on it.
Tommy is pitching his best games right now while Happ has lost his last two & given up 7ER in 14 innings in the process. Tommy has given up only 1 ER in his last 20 innings pitched, but only has one victory to show for it in those three games.
Happ seems to be tiring a bit, while Hanson is getting stronger. Happ has thrown about 40 more innings in the big than Hanson, but overall Hanson has thrown more innings if you include his minor league stats.
Lew
September 18th, 2009
10:46 am
Anders-I realize that the Mets have as much or more experience with players being paid way more than their performance would dictate than most teams in MLB, but Kawakami overpaid? Can you seriously believe this when you have Ollie Perez making twice as much? Must be because his ERA is twice as large. Right?
monty
September 18th, 2009
10:47 am
Lowe has been the benefactor of good run support. He’s not a bad pitcher I guess you could even say he’s a good pitcher, but you could say the same thing about KK who is a good pitcher (even great on occassions). The problem is Lowe cost us twice as much to get the same type (if not as good) pitching. I can’t see any scenario in which FW gets rid of JV and keeps Lowe unless it enables him to bring in a Matt Holiday or an allstar corner OF or 2nd baseman. Anthing less is a waste. He has to find a creative way to move Lowe and keep the best 1-5 starting pitching in the big leagues intact. I’m tired of never knowing what you’re going to get from Lowe and he really looks impatient when things don’t go his way, looks like he just loses concentration.He gets a little “rattled” looking.
Marc in FL
September 18th, 2009
10:47 am
Just a friendly reminder, we don’t have to pass the Rockies, we just have to tie them, and then beat them head-on, which I think we would have the advantage in a “our best pitcher against your best” competition.
Jeff R
September 18th, 2009
10:49 am
Lowe’s not going anywhere. Kawakami may go. He may be considered by other GMs as a number three starter (true, considering the quality, or lack thereof, on other staffs).
Katie
September 18th, 2009
10:51 am
Richard- In regards to the W-L record, its obviously the best indicator for how a team is performing (like you said, wins are the most important thing), but its just not always indicative of the pitcher’s performance. If the Braves keep losing low scoring games when JJ pitches, its not that he just needs to perform better and step up his game a little to get the win, the burden falls on the offense to score. So many parts of the game are out of the pitcher’s hands, and the W-L doesn’t always accurately indicate how a guy is pitching
Marc in FL
September 18th, 2009
10:51 am
And you guys are all assuming that Lowe will be bad next year and Huddy will be great. Huddy had a couple of mediocre seasons with the Braves too you know. They’re essentially the same pitcher, and signing players to big deals only to move them the next season is a white flag which Wren is not going to wave. Trading Javy would just be stupid, I know I wouldn’t expect Hudson to pitch as well as he has this year.
That is why, I repeat, Huddy is not going to be in a Braves uniform next year. Not to mention the obvious fact that if they do try to work out a new deal the Braves will simply be outbid by another team.
18 Wheels of Love
September 18th, 2009
10:52 am
DOB,
New (actually 8 years old) Q-Tip album is out, called Kamaal the Abstract. It is excellent. Have you checked it out yet?
N8
September 18th, 2009
10:56 am
Random, no. I don’t think that the Braves and Cox want to lose. But by being unprepared to execute simple tasks (sacrifice bunts, covering 1B for the pitchers, hitting cutoff men, going 1st to 3rd, and by pretty much finding ways to lose everynight), showed a lack of desire to what was neccesary to win.
Being to lazy to do the things neccesary to win, and wanting to lose are two different things. Make no mistake about it. The Braves were not prepared to play competitive baseball in the spring, if you judge by the results.
That or they just aren’t very good at the little things, and their pitching is carrying them.
McFann ;Ô;
September 18th, 2009
10:57 am
Oh, and BMac’s OBP and AVG both went up a whole point after last night–.345 and .282, respectively. SLG is now .497
McFann ;Ô;
September 18th, 2009
10:58 am
I meant .346 for the OBP…
MFin04
September 18th, 2009
11:04 am
KK has been the better pitcher compared to Lowe. However the difference in salary is the big problem. KK is making what 6-8 million next year, and Lowe making 15. If a team was looking to upgrade their pitching, wouldn’t you be more inclined to go the cheaper route? All things being the same, KK at 8 million is significantly better for a team than Lowe at 15 million.
I really hope we don’t end up trading Vazquez or Hudson. I might even hope to find a cheap power bat (almost impossible I’m sure) and stick with our current pitchers.
The team we have now is significantly better than the team that starter the year, and we’d be adding one more great pitcher in Hudson for next year.
Surely this Braves team along with Hudson could win more games next year than they have this year? (I do agree a power bat would be ideal, but if there isn’t any money because we spent it on pitching, we might still be alright.)
Rob from SC AKA - Derek Lowe sucks
September 18th, 2009
11:08 am
I am trying not to get overly excited about a possible Wild Card run. The only thing I am focused on is our team playing great and finishing as many games as posible above .500. Finishing second in the National League is is important to me as well. We have finished in third too many years in a row.
We need to keep Chipper on the bench until the winning streak ends. Right now he is an out making machine these past 30 games. Almost Schafer like. Tonights game is a must so we don’t need the last two in order to win the series. I believe in this team and I am hoping for great things.
Brave New World
September 18th, 2009
11:09 am
DOB: Your song “Broke Down” should be played whenever Chipper comes to bat – at this stage of his great career he’s broke down and the Braves are broke down when he’s in the line up or playing the field. He’s a future HOF, but extending his contract was Mr. Wren’s worst move so far.
PJ
September 18th, 2009
11:09 am
Nice work DOB!
Check out the blogs at http://braves.gearupforsports.com/. You can write about your favorite team!
Hillbilly
September 18th, 2009
11:17 am
So this blog momentarily disappeared and Wednesday’s blog was at the top of the page. Now it’s Friday again, and the current blog is back, but it’s still 4 hours into the future. Who’s running this thing?….Tarantino?
Vermont 39
September 18th, 2009
11:21 am
Lowe is another example of desperation…fans demanded action…BORAS was ready to milk the cow….albeit a skinny one…Chipper is about ready to go…big savings there…get a bat dump Lowe and watch the fun begin
Tomahawkya
September 18th, 2009
11:23 am
Hudson can go a long way in proving his worth, tonight. I’m a big believer in merit system, especially when it counts (never thought I’d be sayin’ that two weeks ago!).
1-800-Bullpen-Abuse
September 18th, 2009
11:23 am
Glad to see Coxie working in Soriano with a four-run lead last night … and how about that Eric O’Flaherty, what’s that’s three nights in a row?
bravofan
September 18th, 2009
11:28 am
Gotta hand it to the Braves for the 7 game win streak!! This is a great run it would be AWESOME if we sweep the Phils this weekend and bring it up to 10 games!!
Earl (Mr. Atlanta Baseball...) Mann
September 18th, 2009
11:29 am
DOB…
Yea. If Giants and or Rockies get to 92 wins…that would make it more difficult. Hell, getting to 91 looks damn near improbable anyway (for Atlanta). BUT, and it is a big BUT, we are still alive. Asking this team to go 13 – 3 sounds crazy anyway. So…it did as well for the folks out in Denver when they won 21 out of 22…or something absurd like that. But, we have just won 7 in a row. Let’s just see how far they can go and take it from there. Win 2 out of 3 this weekend (anything worse and we are done!) and win the first game Monday night…and yea, we are still in it. Think by that point we would pass the Giants, and be no worse than 3 back with 12 to play. That would put some heat on the Rockies and maybe they cannot stand being the front runner this year?
Fun stuff to chew over anyway.
BELIEVE
jim
September 18th, 2009
11:33 am
Where’s Boone?
With a 5-run lead in the 8th inning last night Boone Logan was nowhere to be found. Before his face appears on an Atlanta area milk carton, we need to examine the top 10 reasons for his disappearance.
10. He sucks and is only on the roster to bring the total payroll up to the figure allowed by Trinity broadcasting.
9. The gang of four (Moylan, EOF, Gonzo, and Soriano) have stolen his uniform pants and jock strap and he can’t leave the clubhouse.
8. He is a only switch-hitter specialist that is only called upon if three or more switch hitters are due in an inning.
7. His arm is tired from overuse.
6. He is the designated double-digit man who is being saved for only those occasions when the lead or deficit is 10+ runs.
5. He sneaks off into the clubhouse during the fifth inning to get a head start on the after-game spread.
4. Cox has lost all short term memory and forgets that anyone who has not appeared in 3 weeks is still on the roster.
3. He thinks the spring training rules still apply and has a late afternoon golf outing with Buddy C every day.
2. He inherited Pascual Perez’s old locker and found an old road map of the Atlanta Metro area.
1. He has a clasue in his contract that kick in if he appears in more than 1 game/month.
Brian the Brain
September 18th, 2009
11:34 am
The Elmination Number remains at 12. Whew.
ncscoots
September 18th, 2009
11:39 am
Javy Vazquez is an undeniable #1 pitcher and Hudson a decent #4-5 starter
Lew, you can make good points for keeping Vazquez, but you tend to lose a lot of cred with statements like that one.
jim
September 18th, 2009
11:39 am
The blog is back to random time stamps again, so I will repost this in the hopes that it appears in the right sequence. Sorry for the duplication if anyone saw this where it was hidden before.
Where’s Boone?
With a 5-run lead in the 8th inning last night Boone Logan was nowhere to be found. Before his face appears on an Atlanta area milk carton, we need to examine the top 10 reasons for his disappearance.
10. He sucks and is only on the roster to bring the total payroll up to the figure allowed by Trinity broadcasting.
9. The gang of four (Moylan, EOF, Gonzo, and Soriano) have stolen his uniform pants and jock strap and he can’t leave the clubhouse.
8. He is a only switch-hitter specialist that is only called upon if three or more switch hitters are due in an inning.
7. His arm is tired from overuse.
6. He is the designated double-digit man who is being saved for only those occasions when the lead or deficit is 10+ runs.
5. He sneaks off into the clubhouse during the fifth inning to get a head start on the after-game spread.
4. Cox has lost all short term memory and forgets that anyone who has not appeared in 3 weeks is still on the roster.
3. He thinks the spring training rules still apply and has a late afternoon golf outing with Buddy C every day.
2. He inherited Pascual Perez’s old locker and found an old road map of the Atlanta Metro area.
1. He has a clasue in his contract that kick in if he appears in more than 1 game/month.
Willy
September 18th, 2009
11:40 am
I haven’t read all of the comments on the blog, but what do the denizens say about moving Lowe to the bullpen? I know, that’s a lot of money for a relief pitcher. But, he’s already been there and had some success (see Boston 1999-2001). He may not be a dominant hurler, but having a sinkerballer in tight situations is not a bad thing to have. If he does have success, he can then be used as trade bait for a hitter. If not, well, that’s why Wren makes these decisions. We have three legitimate aces in Hanson, Jurrjens and Vasquez. Keep all of them. Package Lowe with a prospect if you must, but keep what is working now. Add Hudson to the mix, and….
As for the offense, I’m not sure what would work. Clearly, Chipper hitting below .270 isn’t going to cut it. I’m just glad he’s mature enough to realize that he is part a game, that it’s not all about him. I say bring Heyward up next year and give Schaefer a shot during spring training, but Ryan Church has to go. Keep Garret Anderson to use as trade bait. Keep the infield as is, with the idea of bringing up Freddie Freeman sometime in the future. Ditch Norton and have Brooks Conrad on the bench. Maybe look at Jason Giambi in the offseason as a pinch hitter. I can’t see Colorado keeping him unless he endears himself to the organization. Cut KJ loose. I personally have nothing against him, but like Francoeur, a change of scenery could do some good. Keep Moylan, Gonzalez, Soriano and O’Flaherty. Maybe use Medlen as trade bait. Dump Buddy Carlyle.
Just some thoughts.
indybrave
September 18th, 2009
11:42 am
DOB,
I highly recommend going to the Metallica show. I didn’t care much for the opening acts but the old guys can still bring it. Good mix of old and new. They played six from Death Magnetic and I saw them play Damage Inc. for the first time. I still think Master of Puppets is their best album to date.
Tomahawkya
September 18th, 2009
11:47 am
Hudson can go along way to proving his worth, tonight. I’m a big believer in the merit system, especially when it’s involving meaningful games in September and continuing momentum!
Pepperidge Blogs Remembers (11:53 am)
September 18th, 2009
11:54 am
N8 (September 18th, 2009 4:05 am): “And your point is…….?
Go do some more homework “
Okay.
Here are the number of games (so far) which the Braves have NOT lost following each of TN Jeff’s twenty-nine pronouncements that the Braves just simply WANT to lose:
76, 75, 73, 73, 73, 73, 72, 72, 72, 72, 72, 68, 67, 67, 67, 62, 62, 55, 52, 52, 48, 48, 46, 44, 44, 44, 35, 27 and 23.
Apparently, among all their other failures, the Braves have failed even at losing. Maybe they don’t want it enough?
jim
September 18th, 2009
11:54 am
Trying again. It really is 11:53.
Where’s Boone?
With a 5-run lead in the 8th inning last night Boone Logan was nowhere to be found. Before his face appears on an Atlanta area milk carton, we need to examine the top 10 reasons for his disappearance.
10. He sucks and is only on the roster to bring the total payroll up to the figure allowed by Trinity broadcasting.
9. The gang of four (Moylan, EOF, Gonzo, and Soriano) have stolen his uniform pants and jock strap and he can’t leave the clubhouse.
8. He is a only switch-hitter specialist that is only called upon if three or more switch hitters are due in an inning.
7. His arm is tired from overuse.
6. He is the designated double-digit man who is being saved for only those occasions when the lead or deficit is 10+ runs.
5. He sneaks off into the clubhouse during the fifth inning to get a head start on the after-game spread.
4. Cox has lost all short term memory and forgets that anyone who has not appeared in 3 weeks is still on the roster.
3. He thinks the spring training rules still apply and has a late afternoon golf outing with Buddy C every day.
2. He inherited Pascual Perez’s old locker and found an old road map of the Atlanta Metro area.
1. He has a clasue in his contract that kick in if he appears in more than 1 game/month.
Anders
September 18th, 2009
11:57 am
Anders- It doesn’t matter what kind of bat you would get for Lowe (he won’t be traded) or Kawakami. It would primarily be a salary dump. We could then go the Free Agent route (I wouldn’t) or allow us to make an additional trade (we actually have a farm system with prospects other teams value-unlike the Mets) and have the cash to pay that player (Lew)
First of all I never said anything this morning about trading Lowe. I didn’t want to get in that conversation lest the blogmaster accuse me of patting myself on the back again. Buuut since you brought it up. Nah, never mind.
Anyway, as for trading Kawakami. We’re in agreement that it would be a salary dump. Others were arguing that he and KJ would command a big bat in return. I say no to that. Sounds like we agree on that.
As for your fertile farm system. I’m starting believe. As a matter of fact we found one of your old plants laying on the side of the road and replanted it in the Mets right field. Damned if that plant hasn’t reblossomed right in front of our eyes.
Maybe you need better plant handlers up at the big club to nourish what the farmers down below develop for them?
jeffrey d
September 18th, 2009
11:58 am
Did Lew kill the conversation or is the blog acting up again?
wjones
September 18th, 2009
11:59 am
Some blog observations:
“So do we feel good using Soriano tomorrow if the score is 2 to 1 bottom of the ninth? Kinda scary. We need this guys last two weeks!!”
1. Soriano has looked very good, IMHO, since the loss, the last one we had, against Houston. We could use another Ryan Howard strategy, though.
2. Wonder how good the Phillies feel putting in Lidge with a 2 to 1 score in the bottom of the ninth? For all the crap that bloggers give Cox on this site, it’s ironic that we trail a team who’s manager keeps putting a guy with a 7+ era in there every night, expecting him to magically revert to last year’s form. A manager who also let Pedro throw 130 pitches the other night, and Lee throw 125. A manager who also kept Jimmy Rollins, underperforming far worse than Kelly Johnson at the time, not only in the lineup but batting leadoff until he started hitting. Wonder how HE would get treated on this blog? Wonder what the Phillies’ blog looks like?
3. Has O’Flaherty really been in three straight games? Didn’t realize he pitched in the Hanson game. I knew he pretty much would have had to pitch the second night, the way that game went. Although I guess I don’t understand the “laws” on the blog on how to divide a big lead against a lead in which you use your best pitchers. Soriano is ok to pitch with a three run lead but not a four run lead? Admit that it does get nit-picky at times. I do hope that Gonzo can get back healthy soon, and that we can spot O’Flaherty more in those type situations.
4. We are four wins away from a winning record, six wins away from equaling the 2007 season, and eight wins away from my pre-season prediction. I don’t know about anyone else here, but I plan to enjoy this run to the bitter (or maybe sweet) end.
5. Chipper’s most recent comments bother me to an extent, in that there seems to be something bothering him beyond baseball. Someone had commented on here earlier that his recent slump seemed to start after the reported death of the person on his ranch, and his comments about being around for his family could be connected to this event. Maybe it’s not that he’s tired, or doesn’t care. Maybe he is genuinely depressed about this thing, and it’s affecting him in this way. At any rate, I hope the off-season either gives him a renewed sense of desire to play, or gives him the guidance to retire if it’s what he wants to do.
6. I am a bit puzzled by the lack of activity for Boone Logan as well. Did he do something to anger management? I believe he is up for arb this time, too. If we don’t use him more than we have, I see no point in offering him a contract.
7. I am sure that Wren have a lot up their sleeve in regards to “thinning out” the pitching rotation, as well as ramping up the offense. But perhaps part of their strategy is “seeing what is out there”, as far as shopping pitchers are concerned. They will definitely by approached by many teams who are interested in one or more of the starting pitchers, so a big part of the task will be sifting through the deals and picking the one that makes the most sense for the team. This is of course a much better position to be in than last year, when WE were the ones coming around with our hand out.
jeffrey d
September 18th, 2009
12:00 pm
Oh I get it…the blog got set to normal time but it thinks that Lew posted 2 hours into the future.
Anders
September 18th, 2009
12:03 pm
Gotta say dealing with this whole time stamp mees ain’t fun. I’ll check back later to see if it’s fixed.
Later.
OldBravesBag
September 18th, 2009
12:05 pm
Dave, Which Texas team do you think Kelly would want to play for next year? And I’m making the obvious assumption that he will no longer be a Brave after this season because Bobby has him glued to the bench for the most part. Thanks….. (I will also predict Kelly will be another one that got away……)
jeffrey d
September 18th, 2009
12:06 pm
Man this is annoying. I am boycotting this blog.
…..until I get home.
David O'Brien
September 18th, 2009
12:07 pm
Lew, good points at, well, I guess 2:14 p.m….
Gborobravo: Watched the Office season premiere at 2 a.m., after I got home from ballpark. Hilarious. The opening had me laughing out loud. Parkour!
Burgess
September 18th, 2009
12:08 pm
Notice Jurjens quote about McCann playing every day and giving 100 % even when he’s hurt, could that be a “subtle” dig at Cal Ripken,,,,er Chipper ?
Rainman...
September 18th, 2009
12:14 pm
With the forecast for more rain…do not be surprised if one or more games gets washed away this weekend. And then what? Really…do not want to play a doubleheader with so much on the line now. OK.
And how much more water can Turner field possibly (outfield) handle? We will find out soon enough. OK.
(Also, no way Chipper risks more injury this weekend…so he sits again. Prado hitting again. So we will be fine. Also playing a better third base than Chipper, anyway.) OK.
And what would the schedule maker have to do in order to make a game or two up? OK.
Pray that we can get these games in…without having to make them up some other time!!! OK.
BELIEVE
David O'Brien
September 18th, 2009
12:15 pm
Jeffrey d: Periodontist and dentist, I rotate going to one each 3 months. Have for several years, since having deep scaling done on all four quadrants of my mouth, then requiring flap surgery on two of those quadrants where the scaling didn’t do the job. Dude, I would strongly urge all to floss nightly, without fail. For those who’ve gone through gum surgery, I think you’ll agree that 5-10 minutes of flossing per night is a far better alternative to surgery down the line. Brutal stuff. Had 19 novocaine shots in one three-hour period when I had the deep scaling done, since I wanted to do it all at once instead of two appointments. Then was back in there a year later for surgery.
wjones
September 18th, 2009
12:15 pm
Isn’t this blog wacky? My last posting had the correct time stamp on it, so it jumped ahead of many previous posts. I figured I would post this to see where it lands.
N8
September 18th, 2009
12:19 pm
Lew, my friend, if you think Tim Hudson is a #4 or #5 pitcher, than perhaps you should check and see if your meds need to be updated. One great season (Vazquez) does not make a guy an Ace.
Before Hudson shut down 2008 with elbow issues, he was on pace to do what Vazquez did this year. Since returning from TJ surgery EARLY, he’s posted a 3.63 ERA, while saying his shoulder feels better than it has in years.
I’m not saying that Hudson is going to win 3 Cy Young awards in a row. But I suspect his and Vazquez’s numbers (other than K’s) will be pretty damn similar over the next few years.
By definition, if Vazquez is an ace after one great season, how can you assess Hudson as a #4 or 5 starter? For a guy that usually uses common sense and logic before posting, this post is so off the wall, that I have to question whether somebody is posting under your name.
P. W. Hjort
September 18th, 2009
12:20 pm
If you think Kelly Johnson has no value you’re not very astute in valuing talent.
brent a.
September 18th, 2009
12:30 pm
I’m with Lew on Kawakami. A few bad starts, but over-all pretty not-bad.
I’m curious who has had more “blow-up” starts this year, Lowe or Kawakami?
And KK at half the price.
Jeff R
September 18th, 2009
12:31 pm
DOB, couldn’t have said it better myself:
“So it’s not as much the pitching (that’s been steady all season) or the homers, as much as it’s been a lot of timely hits that the Braves don’t get when they’re playing poorly. They go into collective funks offensively, and those are the times when this team’s looked horrid for a week or more at a stretch.”
Pitching, defense and timely hitting. Only need to beat the opposition by one run. A pitching staff and defense that can keep the opposition’s run total low does the offense a great favor, in that it takes the pressure off it to boost its run total.
coach joe
September 18th, 2009
12:31 pm
15- 16 wins… 200 innings pitched.. winning record when he pitches. why is is everyone so down on LOWE… braves would have killed for those kind of stats last year.
Danga
September 18th, 2009
12:31 pm
It looks like the contract cost of Vazquez versus Hudson is a wash. I keep seeing people refer to the possibility of Hudson not returning from TJ surgery as the ace he was. This is very possible, but isn’t it equally possible that Vazquez regresses back closer to his career averages? He has pitched like an Ace this year, but Hudson’s career numbers are much more impressive. It seems like a wash to me. Vazquez will obviously have more trade value this year which is appealing if you are determined to find a bat, but the pitching is obviously better with both of them in the rotation. Then what do you do after next season when both are free agents? I obviously have no solutions here. Good thing I am not the GM.
Jeff R
September 18th, 2009
12:35 pm
Chipper deserves a lot of credit for staying in the line up most of the season. He’s either slumping or declining, don’t know which, but, overall, his numbers aren’t horrible; they’re just not up to the Chipper of old.
That he’s thinking of playing next season and then evaluating whether or not to retire, says a lot. He may not think he’s just slumping.
McFann ;Ô;
September 18th, 2009
12:36 pm
Anders Gotta say dealing with this whole time stamp mees ain’t fun. I’ll check back later to see if it’s fixed.
Yeah, it messes with the flow of conversation.
Our thread has a knot in it…
Lew
September 18th, 2009
12:40 pm
Avocado-The Braves’ rotation is better so far with Hudson in it? I’m not seeing it.
Keeping in mind that Hudson is just off of surgery and is only getting a look to see if he might come back, he has made three starts and has an ERA of 3.63, given up 25 base runners in 17 IP. for a WHIP of 1.44 and a barely 2-1 K to BB ratio. His control has not completely returned-nor has his stamina. His last outing was NOT as good as the two previously were. We still don’t know if he’s back or not. He’s obviously NOT a full strength (nor should he be)
Kawakami, on the other hand, in his last 6 starts (all of August), pitched 6 or more innings in five of those six starts, giving up more than 3 runs once. His ERA for those 6 starts was right at 3.00, reducing his season ERA from 4.38 to 3.97. a trend which has continued from the beginning of May until his last start. He has struck out 22 and only walked 7 for a better than 3-1 K to BB ratio.
Yes, Hudson is looking pretty good for someone who had surgery barely 13 months ago, but let’s get realistic here. Tim has NOT pitched better than Kawakami. Will he eventually pitch better? Based on past performance, probably so. But better right now? No way.
N8
September 18th, 2009
12:55 pm
“What if Colorado or San Francisco has 92 wins?” DOB
Yeah….. but these go to eleven?
Anders
September 18th, 2009
12:58 pm
Richard Niegh – After reading your 7:23 post I suggest you put your rain slicker on. It is about to rain down on you like you’ve never seen the likes of.
test 123
September 18th, 2009
1:01 pm
123
Anders
September 18th, 2009
1:02 pm
I wonder if it takes this long for the AJC to get their technology group to fix their on line subscription payment system when that goes awry? Doubtful.
Jake W.
September 18th, 2009
1:10 pm
“Rock On – What type of bat do you think the Braves will get for a starting pitcher they over paid and now have relegated to the bullpen and a second baseman they won’t let play at all?
The Braves would do well just to unload Kawakami’s contract for nothing and free that money up.”
Yeah because who would want someone who in their first year in the states has as 3.94 starters ERA and has gone head to head with some of the best pitchers in the game and beat them. Yep, sounds like a salary dump to me. I mean its not like the guy was kicked out of the Nationals starting rotation, he just happened to be odd man out in one of the best rotations in the league. He has a better ERA than Lowe so is not because of performance. Braves had an extra starter and needed some bullpen help. The guy is a starter, and will be again. Nice to have that luxury where your quote unquote 5th starter is sporting a starters era under 4. Can’t think of many teams who have that, if any.
brent a.
September 18th, 2009
1:11 pm
Hard to believe that the Braves were 10 games over .500 (25-15) in May 2007. That’s early in the season to have that strong a record, especially for a team that didn’t have much starting pitching, and ended up in 3rd place in the division.
IIRC, Chipper hurt himself some time in May (game at Pittsburgh) and we had another June swoon.
Jake W.
September 18th, 2009
1:12 pm
“The Braves would do well just to unload Kawakami’s contract for nothing and free that money up.”
Yeah because who would want someone who in their first year in the states has as 3.94 starters ERA and has gone head to head with some of the best pitchers in the game and beat them. Yep, sounds like a salary dump to me. I mean its not like the guy was kicked out of the Nationals starting rotation, he just happened to be odd man out in one of the best rotations in the league. He has a better ERA than Lowe so is not because of performance. Braves had an extra starter and needed some bullpen help. The guy is a starter, and will be again. Nice to have that luxury where your quote unquote 5th starter is sporting a starters era under 4. Can’t think of many teams who have that, if any.
David O'Brien
September 18th, 2009
1:14 pm
N8, love the Spinal Tap reference. Well done.
Random
September 18th, 2009
1:14 pm
N8 (September 18th, 2009 4:05 am) –
So you agree with Tn Jeff that the Braves (and Cox) lose because they want to lose?
Color me surprised.
Brian
September 18th, 2009
1:14 pm
Interesting that the Braves haven’t been 10 games over .500 since May of 2007. They never made it to that level in 2006, either.
But it must really stink to be the Pirates, who haven’t been 10 games over .500 since October 4th, 1992. They didn’t have a single day with a winning record from May 30, 2004 to April 2, 2007.
HAL
September 18th, 2009
1:14 pm
Enter your comments herem M CANTS our new met killer the old met killer dried up n blew to west texas lol
McFann ;Ô;
September 18th, 2009
1:15 pm
DOB Dude, I would strongly urge all to floss nightly, without fail.
Bleck…I know I oughta, but dangit, I hate it…
And when the dentist was flossing me yesterday…ho boy! Felt like she was tearing my gums apart!!
She tells me to relax my tongue, lips, and chin, and I’m thinking, “Yeah, I have no idea how to do that…”
DAP
September 18th, 2009
1:17 pm
this is a test
GboroBravo
September 18th, 2009
1:17 pm
i am stuck
pryguy
September 18th, 2009
1:17 pm
still believing…
McFann ;Ô;
September 18th, 2009
1:18 pm
HAL M CANTS our new met killer
Um…I believe you mean McCann…
HAL
September 18th, 2009
1:19 pm
Enter your comments here midlin couldent replace jo jo in the rotation kk seems a bit of a reach i think the replaceing will be midlin to gwinnet next spring
David O'Brien
September 18th, 2009
1:21 pm
OldBravesBag: I would think either Houston or Texas, since both are hitters’ parks, both in his home state, and the AL has the DH, which might be his best “position.”
rocknthebeergut (formerly southbeachdietfreak)
September 18th, 2009
1:21 pm
KK for Hollday!!
Anders
September 18th, 2009
1:22 pm
Brian- Wow. Those Pirates numbers are incredible. What a waste of the leagues most beautiful stadium setting.
I guess their fans take solace in the Steelers and Penguins. 2 out of 3 ain’t bad as a particular rotund crooner used to bellow.
BravoMan
September 18th, 2009
1:23 pm
My thoughts on the offseason is as follows.
1. Decide which one of our starters needs to go…Hudson, Vazquez, or Kawakami. Lowe isn’t going anywhere. I don’t believe Hudson is either, saw on mlb trade rumors that they’re considering holding on to Huddy past 2010. Vazquez value is so high after the numbers he’s put this year, but he’s really happy here. Kawakami won’t get as much as Javy in return, but that’s around 7 mil we’re dumping. So many things could happen here, but I think and it’s jst a guess that Javy will be traded.
2. Bullpen! I fear that this may get overlooked in the offseason as a bat is looked for. I believe that one of Soriano or Gonzalez should be resigned. And after that another arm should be aquired to take the other one’s place. Our bullpen was a big part of ATL’s success this year and we gotta have it next year.
3. A clean-up hitter. As DOB said a week or so ago when ATL started this hot streak it was McCann who was the catalyst in those 1st few games. Before that neither him nor Chip was hitting and we were losing. That jst shows you that our offense at times revolves around those two guys. With Chipper mulling retirement a clean-up hitter must be aquired. Perferably a right-handed one. Now who are the possibles for this mystery bat??? I dont know for sure but names like Holliday, Bay, Dye, Nady, and DeRosa could all possibly test the market.
4. Re-sign Laroche. Hopefully if one of our staters is moved we should have enough to resign Jones’ hunting buddy who would like to remain a Bravo.
rocknthebeergut (formerly southbeachdietfreak)
September 18th, 2009
1:24 pm
Don’t know how the rest of the seaso’s going to go, but obviously these guys don’t quit.. I’m a proud Braves fan, win or lose. Keep it going, Bravos!
Brian
September 18th, 2009
1:25 pm
DOB, KJ doesn’t hit well enough to be a DH in the AL. He still does hit pretty well for a 2B (at least his career numbers say so), so I bet he would be a decent bargaining chip if we decide to move him.
richbrave
September 18th, 2009
1:27 pm
Jeff R;
Then again, CHIP may think this is just a slump and wants to prove it. That’s why he’s not contemplating retirement now. Who knows. We’ll see next year I guess.
ChipChop
September 18th, 2009
1:28 pm
Hmmm. Could it be time to explore the possibility of starting next season without Chipper Jones? He is often injured and just nowhere near the player he used to be when he isn’t injured. He’s not the defensive player he used to be either. What if Atlanta started next season with Martin Prado at third, signed a second baseman, re-signed Adam LaRoche and upgraded with a power bat in left field? 9-1 in the last 10 without Chipper is a very telling stat. The team has gotten used to life without Chipper.
Anders
September 18th, 2009
1:28 pm
Brian- The Braves have been offense starved for two months and yet they still kept him nailed to the bench. Everyone knows he’s mediocre (I’m being kind) in the field.
How is that a decent bargaining chip? I’d say they have less leverage than they did with Frenchy.
David O'Brien
September 18th, 2009
1:29 pm
why not 13-3. that is the number. 91 wins. that gets us in a playoff. — uga-brave
What if Colorado or San Francisco has 92 wins?