Tell us what you think about the site
Customer Care »
Vacation stops, manage subscriptions and more
AJC Services
Sections
Other Editions
Visitor Agreement | Privacy Statement
© 2013 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Vacation stops, manage subscriptions and more
Visitor Agreement | Privacy Statement
© 2013 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
4,098 comments Add your comment
Mitchie-san
December 3rd, 2009
6:58 pm
Hey Random, the night when I was talking about trading both Vazquez and Lowe I didnt mean to sound all “IN-YOUR-FACE” about it. I was merely trying to make my point, that’s all. Which in all fairness you go over the top to make your points with your famous “copy and paste” posts. Kinda the pot calling the kettle black, dont ya think?
David O'Brien
December 3rd, 2009
7:01 pm
Saito was drawn to Braves in part by the chance to be a setup man and do some closing again, as opposed to the middle-relief work he was mostly confined to in Boston:
“It was very important for me. I definitely wanted to be in those kind of pressure situations. As a professional athlete I think you always strive for competing at the most important, pressure-filled situation. That definitely affected my decision.
Bravoman
December 3rd, 2009
7:08 pm
With the swiftness made by Wren and Co. to solidify the back end of our bullpen, Wren can go into the Winter Meetings in Indy focused solely on his offense and the holes at 1st and OF. I like the hint that Bobby gave today about the “something else that’s going to give us a chance to score more runs.” It will be interesting to see how it all plays out.
Remember if a deal is to be made at the meetings for one of our starters it won’t be til after Lackey is signed. Then the financial flexibility that is created will allow us to obtain the bat that our offense requires. Things are shaping up rather nicely for Bobby and his last year.
Goldenglove002
December 3rd, 2009
7:09 pm
I’ve got the Braves payroll right now at just under $87,000,000. This is including Brooks Conrad as a player on the bench and the assumption that Church and Johnson will be non-tendered. That probably leaves $10 million (taking a guess at what FW’s budget will be based off of last year and the thought that he might get a little bit more to give Bobby a great shot for playoffs and more) for a 1B, LF/CF, and 2 bench spots. Jason Heyward cold end up taking one of those spots, which won’t cost much of anything. I really think the Braves could end up with Mike Cameron (who would be a fine addition to the lineup, even if he isn’t a superstar bat) for no more than $6 million.
Just think if the Braves manage to trade Lowe somewhere for anything. That could be somewhere between $15-20 Million for a 1B and 2 bench spots. Thats a lot of money for any of the current FA 1B and would therefore likely lead to either a trade of prospects for a strong 1B bat or the Braves being able to toss an okay amount of money into the Lowe trade to actually get something of value.
Braves are definitely in good shape at the moment. I can’t wait until next year to see what this team can do.
getsomepower
December 3rd, 2009
7:11 pm
The Phillies just strengthened their lineup with Polanco. But we’ve strengthened our bullpen with Saito and Wagner. I love it. Braves are serious this winter. Once we get our hitter, Braves will be a force to be reckoned with. Wren has been nothing sort of genius.
TennesseePaul
December 3rd, 2009
7:11 pm
Those criticial of Saito, you realize he didn’t have any arm issues at all last season, right?
That’s good to hear, but the man is 40. The actuaries aren’t as positive for him as they would be for a younger guy.
I learned about such age related actuaries over the summer and fall of 2008.
David O'Brien
December 3rd, 2009
7:11 pm
Oh, and Saito’s nickname? “Sammy.” He said it’s a long story and he didn’t want to go into it today, but that’s what they called him in Boston. He likes it, you could tell.
Also, he’s known for singing “Hey Jude” in karaoke bars. Wagner had already told Bobby and Frank the nickname and the karaoke penchant before Saito showed up today.
10
December 3rd, 2009
7:12 pm
N8, 66 % of the payroll being allocated to a third of the payroll, with that third being 34 years or older is a recipe for disaster.
LOOGY
December 3rd, 2009
7:17 pm
…So 41 players on a 40 man roster…Explain that one to me.
erik
December 3rd, 2009
7:18 pm
nolie i know more about baseball then you will ever know, but think what you want. You say you were high on Prado in 2007 yet last year when I said Prado was th 2nd best hitter on the team you and everyone else blasted me. You attacked me first my simpleton friend. You should really grow up. My posts are not filled with anger at all, simpleton. I am quite happy right now with what the Braves have done. Without looking it up I bet you couldn’t even tell me who is has the all time record for losses as a pitcher. So go look that up and get back to me simpleton.
Goldenglove002
December 3rd, 2009
7:19 pm
Is it really that uncommon for a large amount of the payroll to be going towards the older players? Usually the younger players have small salaries because of arbitration and such. IMO, not really something to worry about, especially since none of the contracts are for more than 3 years and the Braves are going to have a little bit of a rush of young guys in the next few years
Goldenglove002
December 3rd, 2009
7:19 pm
LOOGY- Barbaro Canizares was designated for assignment
erik
December 3rd, 2009
7:20 pm
Also funny Nolie Simpleton, that you say I don’t know anything about baseball, yet you seem to agree with me about Prado. Even go as far as to say you have been singing his praises since 2007. So if you follow that rational, that means you and I are both idiots who don’t know baseball. You’re one smart cookie
sidslidkid
December 3rd, 2009
7:20 pm
I wonder if “Sammy” is short for “Samurai”?
David O'Brien
December 3rd, 2009
7:20 pm
Oh, and if you missed it, Canizares was outrighted to open a roster spot for Saito. Braves are at 40.
Andy K.
December 3rd, 2009
7:20 pm
loogy, i don’t have to…Barbaro Canizares was outrighted to the minors i think
brian
December 3rd, 2009
7:25 pm
what are the rules on trading a player who accepted arbitration? If for example Soriano accepted arbitration could the Braves then trade him away before or after the arbitratrion?
erik
December 3rd, 2009
7:25 pm
DOB, did you get any or do you have any gut feeling about who the braves are working on to improve the lineup? Cuddyer from the Twins maybe? Willingham from the Nats? And who was it that asked the question about kepping tomorrow open in case something else where to happen at the press conference?
LOOGY
December 3rd, 2009
7:25 pm
Thanks for clearin’ it up. Appreciate it.
Braves Lifer
December 3rd, 2009
7:25 pm
10- I agree in most cases that having 66% of your payroll obligated to players who are 34 and older may not be the best call; however, you fall to look at the fact that we have several key players making near the league minimum i.e. Prado, Escobar, Hanson, JJ, Moylan, EoF, etc. Not to mention most of those 30+ year olds are on short term contracts which will be expired by the time the before mentioned players make it to arbitration. Seems to me like a team built for success number boy…
sidslidkid
December 3rd, 2009
7:25 pm
DOB, do you have any insight on that little hint Bobby Cox dropped about Wren working on a deal for a bat?
LOOGY
December 3rd, 2009
7:27 pm
Yeah Bobby almost seemed a little too pleased bout a potential deal with that smile on his face.
glord1
December 3rd, 2009
7:31 pm
As far as the bullpen signings I like them. I remember last season watching Wagner come off the DL and I was shocked at his stuff. Maybe all he needed was a new elbow. Saito was very good as well.
Here is the only problem. Can those guys hold up to BCs creature of habit bullpen rotation. Saito can close (very well) so Wagner will not have to go back to back very often. I hope they can hold up if Bobby likes them so much he does not trust anyone else.
Soriano and Gonzalez had good years but I would still rather have Saito and Wagner in with the game as long as they can stay healthy.
Bobby's Cox
December 3rd, 2009
7:34 pm
DOB,
did you thank Wren for holding off on the Saito signing so you could see Billy Joe Shaver last night?
JOE
December 3rd, 2009
7:34 pm
so where does Kimbrel fit in? does he open the season in AAA or with the braves?
VaBraveFan
December 3rd, 2009
7:36 pm
Yeah Bobby did have a big smerk when he mentioned adding more runs, i sure hope thats a hint of something to come soon. For Wren to have filled 2 holes before the winter meetings is very good sign.
18 Wheels of Love
December 3rd, 2009
7:37 pm
Off the see the DBT’s! Check in laters…maybe we will have traded for Nelson Cruz by then.
P'cola Brave
December 3rd, 2009
7:40 pm
I’m leaning to thinking its Nelson Cruz but thats just me.
Thundersticks
December 3rd, 2009
7:40 pm
“10- I agree in most cases that having 66% of your payroll obligated to players who are 34 and older may not be the best call; however, you fall to look at the fact that we have several key players making near the league minimum i.e. Prado, Escobar, Hanson, JJ, Moylan, EoF, etc. Not to mention most of those 30+ year olds are on short term contracts which will be expired by the time the before mentioned players make it to arbitration. Seems to me like a team built for success number boy…” -Braves Lifer
Keep in mind that younger players also make significantly less than older players that have been through free agency.
Rock On......
December 3rd, 2009
7:41 pm
I mean seriously couldn’t “Sammy” have come up with a better karaoke song than Hey Jude! Great song to put you to sleep. Just horrible in every way. Glad to have Saito though, maybe we can introduce him to the Drive-By-Truckers.
Soph
December 3rd, 2009
7:42 pm
jeffrey d – breathe
Thanks, JJ. I was going to tell him the same thing.
shawn
December 3rd, 2009
7:47 pm
DOB, do you have any idea or hunch as to who Bobby might have been talking about regarding the offense? Something is going down here soon, I bet.
DiamondbackMac
December 3rd, 2009
7:52 pm
Rock On
There are only 13 L’s in Hey Jude.
dogsbrekky
December 3rd, 2009
7:56 pm
yes in the annals of history, we will all be passing on DBT songs to our great grandkids and telling stories about how Sir Paul sucked and Hey Jude was boring…. thanks Rock On..
Rabid Rascal
December 3rd, 2009
7:57 pm
Been reading the comments of everyone and I for one am satisfied with the signings. You never know what can happen but experience in the bullpen is definitely a bonus. Amazing how Wren is not wasting any time improving the team.
MZ
December 3rd, 2009
8:01 pm
maybe it’s just me, but I don’t know if “improvement” is the right word to use regarding the Wagner, Saito signings … if anything, they’re moves that will likely equal what Gonzo and MFIKY did last season for the Braves (or something close to equal) … I could be wrong — been known to happen before — and Wagner could go out and save 50, but IMHO, i don’t think that will happen … at the very least it’s not a regression
P'cola Brave
December 3rd, 2009
8:04 pm
I think they are solid signings and will be more consistent then Gonzo and Soriano.
Anders
December 3rd, 2009
8:06 pm
Lowe,Chipper,Hudson,Wagner and now Saito. I hope that cow out in left can produce ensure. You guys sure are gonna need it! {:
Boy, it doesn’t seem all that long ago many on here used to lambast Minaya for all the “old guys” he was signing. I guess those thoughts went the way of the anti-wagner sentiment.
KC
December 3rd, 2009
8:07 pm
I know it’s been said by some of the national sports journalist types that Soriano and Gonzalez are the two best relievers available… but I actually think Wagner/Saito could be an upgrade on Soriano/Gonzo.
Mike Gonzalez, while his ERA and strikeout numbers look good, wasn’t able to close games last year. He blew 7 of his 17 opportunities, and many of the ones he did convert were adventurous to say the least.
I would gladly have Gonzo back as a situational lefty… but if someone wants to pay him closer money and trust that he’ll revert to Pittsburgh form, more power to them!!! I’d much rather have either Wagner or Saito than Gonzo.
As for Soriano, he can certainly be dominant… as he was the first half of last season. But you can’t ignore what happened with him down the stretch, and he isn’t exactly Ironman.
All in all, if Wagner is back to form – as he appears to be – I think this will be an upgrade on last year’s ‘pen. I really do.
nolie
December 3rd, 2009
8:09 pm
This is including Brooks Conrad as a player on the bench GG
very questionable assumption
Cameron C
December 3rd, 2009
8:10 pm
What if the Braves spend all this money, and then soriano or gonzo or even both surprise everyone and accept, how would the Braves fix the payroll problem? It would be nice having a bullpen of Moylan, Soriano, Gonzo, Saito, & Wagner haha but shouldnt the Braves wait and make sure they dont accept before spending all the money. Because I think the 8 million offered to Soriano is a really good deal that he could accept.
rtrafford
December 3rd, 2009
8:10 pm
Someone on the blog sticking up for Minaya? Really? The same Minaya that thus far this winter has signed Cora, Coste, and Henry Blanco while heading towards retaining Delgado for 1B?
Really?
N Nine
December 3rd, 2009
8:10 pm
…alright!! Are we sure Gonzo or Soriano won’t pull a Greg Maddux?
It’s been one silly week alright, great quick moves by Mr. Wren! Glad things are moving along quicker and less road bumps. We picked up two guys with a team friendly contract and both hold a 2-something career ERA. Brilliant.
Bravoman
December 3rd, 2009
8:10 pm
P’cola Brave,
I concur, these two guys will be more consistent than the Soriano Gonzo duo.
Braves Lifer
December 3rd, 2009
8:11 pm
MZ- Maybe the improvement wont come from Wagner and Saito but in the delevelopment of EoF and Medlin. I agree it is going to be hard to top what Gonzo and Soranio did last year but getting both of them back was not an option due to cost constraints and their desire for a multi-year contract. On the plus side Wagner and Saito give us a great back end of our rotation at a fraction of what it would cost to bring back Gonzo and Soranio for this year.
J-MAN
December 3rd, 2009
8:13 pm
I keep on looking at Nelson Cruz’s stats the more I like, the only thing that I question is can he stay healthy?
Anders
December 3rd, 2009
8:14 pm
Also, he’s known for singing “Hey Jude” in karaoke bars. Wagner had already told Bobby and Frank the nickname and the karaoke penchant before Saito showed up today.(DOB)
Wow. Are they having a sleep over at Waggy’s place too? The giddiness over the signing of two relief pitchers who total almost 80 years of age is alarming. I mean, I know the Braves haven’t had a lock down closer in, well almost forever, but you might want to slow the train down just a bit.
Still no feedback from the blogmaster regarding Wagners character in that “dysfunctional clubhouse” he presided over. Huh. Guess it was just a mirage…….
Goldenglove002
December 3rd, 2009
8:15 pm
Nolie-
Well I’m thinking that atleast one Braves player on the 40 man roster right now who spent some sort of time with the big league club after callups will get a bench spot. Conrad is my favorite of them, and they’d all be making the same close to minimum league salary.
VaBraveFan
December 3rd, 2009
8:19 pm
Anders
Alot of us are waiting for a response from DOB regarding Bobby’s comment and smerk about adding someone to score some more runs.
P'cola Brave
December 3rd, 2009
8:19 pm
Age doesnt necessarily mean they will tank. I dont know why everyone is making such a big deal of their age. I know they are no Mariano Rivera or Hoffman but they have still had solid careers and no reason to believe they will tank. I know Wagner is coming off surgery but there have been plenty of pitchers to come back from it and many become stronger.
DAP
December 3rd, 2009
8:19 pm
Anders, if you don’t think anyone cares how old our two new relievers are, you haven’t really been reading posts.
KC, you are really being a homer if you think Wagner and saito are an upgrade over gonzo and soriano. I don’t hate the signings considering everything, but your sentiment is silly.
nolie
December 3rd, 2009
8:20 pm
Prado in 2007 yet last year when I said Prado was th 2nd best hitter on the team you and everyone else blasted me. You attacked me first my simpleton friend. Erik
I have been high on him since the minors, but that does not make me blind. He is not the second best hitter on the team, He is a nice solid player with adequate defense and a decent bat especially for a middle infielder. I know you weren’t the one who said 20 homers and I agree with you that he will hit a lot of doubles.
Dude you need to grow up. You attacked that Smith guy when he never even said anything other than that Prado won’t hit 20 homers. You often get angry very quickly when someones disagrees with you and like today when it really has nothing to do with you, you still got mad. I said what I did because I didn’t want you attacking me right away like you did Smith.
Once you start that attitude I agree that I’m immature in the desire to taunt you and keep you going, but you run on without that many times. I’ll make an effort not to taunt you if you work on not getting angry and then reflecting it onto others.
Otherwise i guess our relationship so to speak will continue to be stormy. My last post on the subject at this time so take the last word if you wanna.
Efrim
December 3rd, 2009
8:21 pm
Pretty happy about the Saito signing. I disagree that Wagner and Saito are better than Gonzo and Soriano. But that doesn’t really bother me, the other two were going to cost more. Plus, we’re getting draft picks. Their age is a concern, obviously, but you really just have to hope for the best. Frank Wren doesn’t mess around. I love it.
Anders
December 3rd, 2009
8:21 pm
Ah yes, KC has now found the Wagner religion as well. Where exactly were all you guys while I was defending myself from the Wagner poison tipped arrows that were slung at me on this very blog by all the Braves faithful?
Revisionist history doesn’t even begin to tell the story of what’s going on at this blog as it relates to Wagner. And it starts at the top. It’s almost shameful.
DAP
December 3rd, 2009
8:22 pm
I totally agree, braves lifer. Well said.
Braves Lifer
December 3rd, 2009
8:23 pm
Anders- I think the giddiness from the Braves fans on this blog steams from the fact that our GM is competent enough to pick up high impact players at a relatively low risk and low cost. Then again you wouldn’t get that because honestly when was the last time that the Mets made a good FA signing? Shoot I can’t remember maybe you can. Just be glad your cruddy team has a large enough payroll to allow you to finish third year in and year out and have fun watching us in October this year.
nolie
December 3rd, 2009
8:24 pm
but I don’t know if “improvement” is the right word to use regarding the Wagner, Saito signings … if anything, they’re moves that will likely equal what Gonzo and MFIKY did last season for the Braves
yeah they are probably a pass but at less that Gonzo and Sori would cost us this year, maybe it’s an improvement in that sense
sidslidkid
December 3rd, 2009
8:25 pm
Anders is jealous….Anders is jealous….Anders is jealous….Anders is jealous….
Anders
December 3rd, 2009
8:25 pm
For the record I think the Braves have a big trade already in their sights. This Wren doesn’t mess around sentiment means nothing relation to Wagner and saito. It’s not like those guys were on the verge of signing elsewhere. I think he’s moving quickly because they have a deal to lock down in the next few days.
I also say Soriano would be better served to take the arbitration. He may get Abrue’d otherwise.
Lexington BBQ
December 3rd, 2009
8:27 pm
DOB, a few questions:
1) if you were to grade the Braves on these two signings what would it be?
2) You seem to be defending the Braves (I’m not putting a value judgment on that) on the signings despite their age, so do you really not think it is risky?
3) Do you think that Craig Kimbrel will be more likely to play a part in the bullpen given the age of Wagner and Saito?
Darren Holmes
December 3rd, 2009
8:28 pm
I realize it’s Soriano’s nickname on the blog, but what does “MFIKY” stand for?
Jeff R
December 3rd, 2009
8:29 pm
Wagner and Saito, 38 and 40, respectively. Not negative here, believe me. Want both these guys to do well, but a little concerned that the Bravos’ one-two punch just got considerably older. It’s a long season. We’ll see how these guys fare in August.
VaBraveFan
December 3rd, 2009
8:29 pm
Wagner and Saito are both more experienced and have consistantly played at a high level thoughout there careers.. If i had to choose which 2 i would want , yes i would want Gonzo and Soriano but only because there younger and would provide great back end for more years.
I think the Braves will blow less saves this year.
Jake W.
December 3rd, 2009
8:29 pm
“The giddiness over the signing of two relief pitchers who total almost 80 years of age is alarming. I mean, I know the Braves haven’t had a lock down closer in, well almost forever, but you might want to slow the train down just a bit.”- Anders
Having optimism over these two pitchers and their careers isn’t something bad. Sure there is some caution given their age, but healthy they should be good relievers for us. Healthy a lot of players can be good. Just look at your team last year. Injuries can happen to anyone. Soriano and Gonzo weren’t old when we got them but both had various injuries that kept them off the field. Both also seemed to deal with fatigue also and they aren’t “old”.
Every signing is a risk because anyone can get injured. My hope is these two stay healthy and provide good production for the back of the bullpen.
nolie
December 3rd, 2009
8:31 pm
Do you think that Craig Kimbrel will be more likely to play a part in the bullpen given the age of Wagner and Saito? LEX
I don’t think Kimbrel will make much of an impact in the pen at all unless he can start throwing strikes regularly. If he can do that he will be a help At this point you’d probably have to think that Moylan and EO’F might get some extra work.
Jeff R
December 3rd, 2009
8:31 pm
I think Soriano is going to leap at the first multiyear deal that comes his way. With his arm history, I’m betting financial security is his priority. Better to make less with a guarenteed multiyear deal than take a chance with a one-year arbitrated deal.
Danga
December 3rd, 2009
8:32 pm
Rock On….Have not heard this version of Hey Jude? I can see Saito going Wilson Pickett on his karaoke version…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8IFB9Q_3t_k
Anders
December 3rd, 2009
8:34 pm
I think the giddiness from the Braves fans on this blog steams from the fact that our GM is competent enough to pick up high impact players at a relatively low risk and low cost (Braveslifer)
In the last two years Wren has signed Lowe,Kawakami,Hudson, Wagner and Saito. Exactly who are you talking about? The first two have high cost and the last three have high risk (recent surgeries and age).
Jeff R
December 3rd, 2009
8:37 pm
Of course, Saito and Wagner are one or two year fixes for the bullpen. Keep an eye on Medlen (if he’s not packaged this winter for a power bat). I think he could start stepping up to a setup role and, eventually, close.
Also, Wagner and Saito are buying time for some of the kids in the farm system to develop. Think we’ll start to see relief roles being filled internally after 2010.
VaBraveFan
December 3rd, 2009
8:37 pm
Just think if Soriano accepts arbritration. Your looking at prolly the best bullpen in baseball. Yes it would hurt our payroll, but i think we could always trade him after right? But a quick fix to the payroll would be to unload Lowe for a couple low value prospects that wouldnt require us to eat much of his contract.
David O'Brien
December 3rd, 2009
8:37 pm
Here’s my Saito story, unedited
By David O’Brien
His nickname is Sammy and he’s known to do a solid karaoke version of “Hey Jude.”
But for now, the main thing Braves fans want to know about their team’s newest reliever, Takashi Saito, is whether the 39-year-old Japanese right-hander can still be a dominant pitcher in the late innings of close games.
Braves officials are convinced the former Dodgers closer will be, and signed Saito to a one-year, $3.2 million contract Thursday. They have him penciled in as primary setup man and backup closer to Billy Wagner, the veteran lefty who signed the day before.
“We’ve added two guys that will significantly enhance our chances of winning games late,” said Braves general manager Frank Wren, the busiest in baseball so far this winter.
In two days, the Braves signed two relievers to one-year contracts worth about $10 million. Between them, Wagner and Saito have 77 years, seven children, 468 saves and 1,389 strikeouts in 1,079 innings. (Saito has three children, all young daughters.)
“When one’s not available [to close] the other one can be,” said Wren, adding that the Braves could now narrow their focus to the pursuit of a hitter as they prepare for baseball’s annual Winter Meetings that start Monday in Indianapolis.
“We’ve very fortunate to get two outstanding relief pitchers and we haven’t even been to the winter meetings yet,” manager Bobby Cox said. “So we are way ahead of the game. Gonzo and Soriano are both free agents and we needed to fill those spots.”
The Braves fully expect to lose 2009 closers Mike Gonzalez and Rafael Soriano to free agency, and already replaced them with a combo much older and more accomplished – and with one fewer recent elbow surgery between them.
Wagner had 2008 surgery, but Saito has not had any major arm problems in four seasons in the majors. He missed time with a sprained elbow in 2008, but didn’t require surgery and had no recurrence last season.
Saito, who’ll be 40 in February, had a 2.43 ERA in 56 games for Boston with a career-low 52 strikeouts and career-high 25 walks in 55-2/3 innings, mostly middle relief. He made $6 million ($4.5 million of it incentives), and Boston declined a $6 million option.
Before 2009, he had a stingy 1.95 ERA with 81 saves in three seasons with the Dodgers, with 245 strikeouts and 52 walks in 189-2/3 innings. He prefers a late-innings role, and his Braves contract includes up to $500,000 in additional bonuses for appearances and up to $1.8 million in bonuses for games finished.
“I definitely wanted to be in those kind of pressure situations,” he said through a translator Thursday at Turner Field. “As a professional athlete I think you always strive for competing at the most important, pressure-filled situation.”
He received interest from seven other teams, and Saito got a glowing review from Wagner, a Boston teammate during Wagner’s late-season stint with the Red Sox.
“When we visited Billy [in Virginia last week], he couldn’t say enough about Takashi,” Cox said. “His stuff, his makeup, how he throws the ball, and what a great teammate he is. It helped reinforce to us that what we were thinking about him was right on track.”
Saito said, “The Braves organization was one of the first clubs to raise their hand and show some interest towards me, and I’m very grateful for that… I’ve known about the Braves and their winning tradition for a long time, since I played in Japan.
“I also was able to talk to Kenshin. About a week ago we had a TV appearance together and I asked him a lot of questions. He explained a lot about the Atlanta area, the Braves pitching and the manager. Everything seemed so positive.
“He was also calling me as well, and telling me about the Braves.”
VaBraveFan
December 3rd, 2009
8:39 pm
Medlen also fits this spot. The Braves trade Lowe for salary relief. But then are unable to sign Javy to a extension, leading to Medlen in the rotation. But i do see Medlen as a impact reliever if we keep em in the bullpen.
Jeff R
December 3rd, 2009
8:40 pm
I doubt Soriano is going to accept arbitration. I think he’ll get multiyear offers.
Efrim
December 3rd, 2009
8:40 pm
Wagner, Saito, Moylan, O’Flaherty, Medlen already locked in I would think. Plenty of time to figure the last two spots out, but Luis Valdez and Lee Hyde are possibilities.
BravesfaninWis
December 3rd, 2009
8:41 pm
I liked when one media member asked Frank Wren that for travel issues if they should leave tomorrow afternoon open, and Wren smiled and said you never know meaning that another deal may be happening in the next 24 hours.
Bobby already said at the beginning of the press conference that Wren was working on another deal, so maybe something else is being worked out as we speak. Hopefully a power bat.
David O'Brien
December 3rd, 2009
8:42 pm
Oh, and yes, I think some of you are reading too much into Bobby’s comment about Frank Wren and Bruce Manno working on a deal for a hitter.
I asked Wren about it afterward, and he indicated that by “something” Cox was referring more to their general pursuit of a hitter, not a specific deal. Wren said nothing was imminent and that they’re are still working on several options, both free agents and on the trade front.
I wouldn’t expect that to happen until at least the Winter Meetings, and perhaps not until later if it hinges on the trade of a pitcher.
Efrim
December 3rd, 2009
8:42 pm
Just think if Soriano accepts arbritration. Your looking at prolly the best bullpen in baseball.
They would probably deal Soriano if that happened. I’m pretty sure he is going to get a multi year deal. Detroit, NYY, Boston, Baltimore, etc. A lot of teams could use his services.
BravesfaninWis
December 3rd, 2009
8:44 pm
IMO, Saito doesn’t look near 40 years old at all. He holds his age well.
nolie
December 3rd, 2009
8:46 pm
I’m pretty sure he is going to get a multi year deal. Detroit, NYY, Boston, Baltimore, etc. A lot of teams could use his services Efrim
sorry Ef, Anders says you are wrong.
P'cola Brave
December 3rd, 2009
8:46 pm
I think Soriano ends up with the Angels. They could use some support if Fuentes continues to struggle.
Jeff R
December 3rd, 2009
8:46 pm
VaBraveFan… Yes, Medlin’s capable in both regards. But with the starting pitching the Braves have in the pipeline, I think relief may be the better play for him (if he has a choice in the matter).
FYI, Lowe… I think Wren can get more than a couple of low value prospects for him. In fact, I’d want the Bravos to keep Lowe and move Kawakami if his contract wasn’t the issue.
Lowe produces fairly steadily. He may go for a couple of prospects, but I believe Wren could get a couple of very solid high minors prospects, at least.
Jake W.
December 3rd, 2009
8:47 pm
“In the last two years Wren has signed Lowe,Kawakami,Hudson, Wagner and Saito. Exactly who are you talking about? The first two have high cost and the last three have high risk (recent surgeries and age).”- Anders
Aren’t most signings risky? If Wagner or Saito don’t pan out they are one year deals and liked someone mentioned we have some young arms that are coming along. They are quite ready yet, hence the signing of Saito and Wagner. Lowe isn’t cheap but he is one of the most reliable starters in the league. Kawakami in his first year in the majors posted good numbers and I don’t really consider him expenisve. We got Tim Hudson back at a cheaper price for next year than if we had picked up his option. Not to mention when you couple them with the very affordable salaries of JJ and Hanson what we have spent on our rotation overall and the production we get from it is worth it.
MIBravesFan
December 3rd, 2009
8:48 pm
I think it’s cool KK has already become a Braves recruiter (I always assumed that was going to be about bringing players over from Japan – obviously, it also includes players already here!) Great stuff also about Saito and Billy W’s experiences in the BoSox bullpen bonding them already as teammates. I love what Frank has done with our bullpen – and I loved Bobby’s “hint” of things to come for the offense – can’t wait to see what that is!
tr
December 3rd, 2009
8:48 pm
These two signings decrease the already relatively remote chance of either Gonzo or Rafy accepting arbitration for a couple of reasons:
1) They want to close and keep getting closer money beyond this season.
2) The quality set-up/closer availability pool just got smaller by two, increasing the chance that some team(s) will up the ante for them.
sidslidkid
December 3rd, 2009
8:49 pm
“I wouldn’t expect that to happen until at least the Winter Meetings, and perhaps not until later if it hinges on the trade of a pitcher.” – DOB
That’s what I thought… not what I hoped Bobby meant, but we still got a lot of off season left.
Anders
December 3rd, 2009
8:51 pm
nolie- I believe Efrim is wrong regarding Soriano to the Yanks. Cashman already said that he felt many of the relievers are over valued regarding the draft pick compensation and he said other GM’s are concerned as well. It may even come up at the GM meetings this week. He said the system was broken regarding just the relievers and needed to be tweaked. He said he didn’t think it was fair to some of the relievers.
Heyman has talked about this as well. Just sharing.
MIBravesFan
December 3rd, 2009
8:51 pm
DOB: “Oh, and yes, I think some of you are reading too much into Bobby’s comment about Frank Wren and Bruce Manno working on a deal for a hitter.
I asked Wren about it afterward, and he indicated that by “something” Cox was referring more to their general pursuit of a hitter, not a specific deal. Wren said nothing was imminent and that they’re are still working on several options, both free agents and on the trade front.
I wouldn’t expect that to happen until at least the Winter Meetings, and perhaps not until later if it hinges on the trade of a pitcher.”
If Bobby were a used car salesman instead of a baseball manager, I guess I’d be in real trouble, because he sure sounded like he knew something there.
Jeff R
December 3rd, 2009
8:52 pm
Can’t wait to hear the chatter out of Indy. If Wren doesn’t move fast, going to be a lot of rumors swirling about Lowe and Vazquez.
Bobby
December 3rd, 2009
8:52 pm
Efrim-I would think Logan, Proctor, and Reyes could also be in the mix for the last two bullpen spots.
N Nine
December 3rd, 2009
8:53 pm
Efrim I have Proctor, Acosta, Abreu, and Logan for those two spots.
Jeff R
December 3rd, 2009
8:54 pm
Logan and Proctor will definitely make a run a two of the last three spots. Wren and Cox seem particularly high on Proctor.
Jurrjens4NLCY
December 3rd, 2009
8:57 pm
Thanks, JJ. I was going to tell him the same thing.
Np.
Anders
December 3rd, 2009
8:57 pm
Jake W – It doesn’t even sound like you believe the argument you presented at 8:47.
You’d get your innocent client sent to the chair with that close.
Lowe is untradeable, that tells you about his cost. Kawakami finished the year in the bullpen, Hudson and Wagner are coming of major surgery, Saito is well I barely know who he is and he’s 39.
Hang him judge!
MIBravesFan
December 3rd, 2009
8:57 pm
Jeff R: “Can’t wait to hear the chatter out of Indy. If Wren doesn’t move fast, going to be a lot of rumors swirling about Lowe and Vazquez”
How much faster does he have to move – the speed of light?! I know you mean relative to trading one of those pitchers for a bat, but geez, the guy has moved pretty darn fast reconstructing the bullpen!
Jake W.
December 3rd, 2009
8:58 pm
I personally think Soriano will end up with the Cubs or the Sox. Where Gonzo ends up depends on if he truly believes he is and should be a closer. If he goes to Boston or the Yanks he obviously isn’t going to be that but will probably get the years and the money he wants. If he wants to be the closer he will end up somewhere else, probably not as high profile.
Jeff R
December 3rd, 2009
9:00 pm
MIBravesFan… You’re right! Wren ain’t letting any grass grow under his feet. But, yes, referring to the possible big deal involving either Lowe or Vazquez.
Efrim
December 3rd, 2009
9:00 pm
nolie and Anders, I think Soriano will first look to get a closer job somewhere. Baltimore, Detroit are two that come to mind. Anders – You’re probably right about the Yanks. Heck, they didn’t have too many picks last year. They could use a few.
N Nine and Bobby, Hyde, Kimbrel, Proctor, Logan, Abreu, Reyes, etc. They have plenty of options. I’d say the Braves are done on the pitching side, except for dealing away either Lowe or Javy.
Braves Lifer
December 3rd, 2009
9:01 pm
Anders- “In the last two years Wren has signed Lowe,Kawakami,Hudson, Wagner and Saito. Exactly who are you talking about? The first two have high cost and the last three have high risk (recent surgeries and age).”
Exactly you don’t understand. Not every team can go out and sign Santanna to fix their pitching issues. Wren worked with what he had and completly soldified our starting rotation at about the cost of your one “highly prized” acquistion. You Mets fans are all the same. According to you Lowe is way overpriced. Well I would take Lowe and his $15M salary over Oliver Perez $12-13M salary any dat. Lowe won 15 games Olie won 3… LOL Johan Santana won 13. Come on Muts… Omar couldn’t hold Frank Wren’s jock strap with an extra $40 million to work with.
nolie
December 3rd, 2009
9:03 pm
Cashman already said that he felt many of the relievers are over valued regarding the draft pick compensation and he said other GM’s are concerned as well. It may even come up at the GM meetings this week. He said the system was broken regarding just the relievers and needed to be tweaked. He said he didn’t think it was fair to some of the relievers.
Heyman has talked about this as well. Just sharing.
Anders
yeah I’ve seen the articles and agree to an extent.
Like Wrwn said a few days ago though, the pendulum might be swinging a bit too much to the side of valuing prospects. most of them still fail, even many from the first two rounds.
I agree that it will likely affect at least some teams this winter, but I think Sori & Gonzo are worth giving up a pick for and I think some teams will think so too.
The entire free agent compensation package is likely to be a huge part of the next union negotiations
Jeff R
December 3rd, 2009
9:03 pm
Wren’s not going to be adding to the pitching staff any more. The focus is now on a power bat at either 1B or OF. If the outfield, then Wren’s got to figure out what to do about first. I still think LaRoche is in play.