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7,406 comments Add your comment
keylargo
December 25th, 2009
11:16 pm
Yet another factor to consider: until the Marlins are certain they won’t be on the hook for the approximate $7 million they would have to budget by keeping Uggla Miami Herald
THE BEAR Illegitimi non carborundum
December 25th, 2009
11:20 pm
Ok, The Herald says $7 million. I read (and cannot remember which paper it was, Ft. Lauderdale or W. Palm Beach) that it was expeceted to be $8+ million. No one knows, we are simply blowing smoke and it does not change what I wrote anyway. The Braves are not going on the hook for $7 million and two or three prospects when they can sign similar talent for less money. That is the story here, not whose guess is right or wrong.
keylargo
December 25th, 2009
11:32 pm
Bear, it does say apprx, so it could be higher or lower. But no matter if is as low as $6 mill or as high as $8, the Marlins will not pay it IMO. That’s why I question the big bounty of prospects. My guess is in the end it will be something like what the Braves got for Soriano.
BillReef
December 25th, 2009
11:34 pm
Jordan Shafer= Brad Comminsk. That’s like comparing Kelly Johnson to Ryne Sandberg. It means nothing. Just because both players come out of the minors highly touted doesn’t mean they are comparable. They are so many more factors at play. BK was a power hitter with little speed and less fielding acumen. What does that lesson teach us? Some guys make it and some guys don’t. HELLOOO!!!!
Bravesguy101
December 25th, 2009
11:38 pm
Troy Glaus has hit a homerun before, so the Braves will be fine.
Eric In Albany N.Y.
December 25th, 2009
11:54 pm
the Mets seem to be close to a deal with Kelvim Escobar as a set up man to K-Rod. they have done nothing but release people they cant afford and who are not major league material and sign people who at one time had major league experience to be back up or set up men. they have the same if not more holes the braves had foing into the off-season. frank re built the bullpen re stocked the farm full of pitching filled a hole at first relieved some payroll and left himself with budget to spend.
Everyone can complain about the moves the braves have made the last 2 years but the fact is the Braves improved last year and Frank Wren could be worse. We could have omar minaya as a GM.
THE BEAR Illegitimi non carborundum
December 25th, 2009
11:54 pm
keylargo,
It is possible the Marlins may take only one prospect but it will have to be a good one and it will not likely be a fast trade. They will hold out as long as possible.
benchwarmer
December 25th, 2009
11:57 pm
Uggla? Just not a complete enough ballplayer. Good pop is about it.
benchwarmer
December 26th, 2009
12:02 am
Jeez, some of you guys are all about NAMES. There are plenty of good and potentialy very good players out there who don’t carry the handcuffs that a big contract player has. And these name guys may not always work out like we would like, ie. A-Rod(until this year). If they don’t then that’s it for awhile.
RC
December 26th, 2009
12:04 am
If we are going to spend $7 million and prospects on a 2nd baseman, I’d much rather it be Brandon Phillips than Dan Uggla. Phillips is an OUTSTANDING defensive 2nd baseman, while Dan Uggla is….not. Considering that 2/5ths of our starting rotation relies VERY heavily on the sinker as a go-to pitch (not to mention our top 2 setup men), 2nd base defense seems pretty important. The Braves can then move Prado into the LF/Util role that DeRosa would play otherwise, and improve the club both offensively and defensively for 2010. Also, Phillips contract runs through 2011 with an option for 2012, so we’d actually have the opportunity to control him for longer than we’d be able to keep Uggla around. I really doubt any of this will happen, but I’d certainly like to see them consider it.
TnBrian
December 26th, 2009
12:07 am
Chuck James, thanks for the kind words and I hope you’re having a great Christmas. Yeah, grandad talks about his time in the Air Force and Braves baseball and sorta hides in the corner when the family starts on all the gossip. Man never says a negative word about anybody behind their backs; he’d be more than happy to sit in private with you and share his feelings and give advice. Really, I’ll never meet a more giving, caring human being in all my life.
Yes, the more you think about Uggla (worst last name ain’t it?) the more you realize it’s a perfect match.
brian, you might be right in that Uggla could cost more than what I and some others think in terms of prospects, but the only rumor involving Uggla I’ve read about this offseason has been a Jonathan Sanchez for Uggla trade and that’s not much at all. Sanchez has had a few very good games in his short career, but has been mostly mediocre and SF is nuts to pass on that deal, imo. Medlen and maybe Cabrera should be enough to get him, but judging from that offer to SF, Medlen ought to be enough. Cabrera isn’t cheap however and Fla. is, so they might not want him.
THE BEAR Illegitimi non carborundum
December 26th, 2009
12:07 am
brent a.
December 25th, 2009
1:07 pm
I still don’t understand how we lost Smoltz in a “less than appropriate manner.”
The Braves and Red Sox were both bidding on Smoltz, and John chose to take the larger guarantee in Boston.
I think that any unbecoming behavior in that instance was on the part of Smoltz.
Now the Glavine situation was different. He was cut unceremoniously. Good decision. Bad P.R.
————–
Let’s try to settle this Glavine thing once and for all. In 2008 he pitched 63 innings in 13 games. He had an ERA of 5.54, won 2 and lost 4 and was paid $8 million.
In 2009 the Braves paid him $1 million to work out, get in shape, start a few games for Gwinnett and then if he was effective they would put him on the roster when more salary would kick in. He failed to impress Frank Wren at Gwinnett (and me too) and FW decided to end it all. (Now, how do you CEREMONIOUSLY TELL SOMEONE THEIR CAREER IS OVER?)
When he told Glavine he was not going to put him on the roster Glavine pitched a fit. In 2008 and 2009 he had been paid a total of $9 million for TWO WINS.
I agree with Wren, it was time to end it all and Glavine should have taken it like a man instead of like a small boy pitching a fit. He was 42 at the time and it was over but he simply decided to bad mouth Wren instead of just walking away with his head held high.
Glavine lost a lot of respect from me for him at the time.
RHR
December 26th, 2009
12:11 am
lol Braveheart….come on man…RIP VC. Can’t say I’m surprised, sad ending nonetheless.
TnBrian
December 26th, 2009
12:14 am
Or, and this makes almost as much sense as Uggla does for Atlanta, Wren could go out and look for a speedy leadoff type leadoff guy since he and Bobby obviously view Glaus as that 30 HR/100 RBI guy for that cleanup spot. Either way they choose to go shouldn’t surprise any of us that have watched Wren work these last few offseasons. What would be surprising is to see him stand pat with what’s out there right now and expect Melky to be plenty.
I think in my mind Glaus signing was all for Bobby. Wren probably liked Nady as was written, but Bobby must like Glaus more and I think it’s also safe to say Wagner was another Bobby move. Being his last year I think he deserves some say so with his team.
nolie
December 26th, 2009
12:29 am
John Manuel’s Personal Top 20 Prospects List
Posted Dec. 24, 2009 9:37 pm by J.J. Cooper
The Baseball America Prospect Handbook has been sent to the printer and will be shipped in the not too distant future. As part of the handbook, Jim Callis, Will Lingo and John Manuel rank their own personal Top 50s, the first step toward putting together Baseball America’s Top 100 Prospects list.
As a sneak peek, here’s an early draft of Manuel’s personal Top 20
1. Stephen Strasburg, rhp, Nationals
WHY HE’S HERE: The No. 1 overall pick in the 2009 draft showed why he has all that hype, showing three premium pitches in the Arizona Fall League. His fastball reaches 100 mph, his slider has devastating power and movement, and his changeup has flashes of brilliance, even at 90 mph.
WHAT HE’LL BE: The face of the Nationals and a No. 1 starter.
WHEN HE ARRIVES: The Nats will be tempted to push their best arm to the majors quickly, but should be able to resist until the second half of 2010 at the least. If he’s not in the majors on Opening Day 2011, it will be a major upset.
2. Jason Heyward, of, Braves
WHY HE’S HERE: The 2009 Minor League Player of the Year has exceptional hitting skills, making consistent, hard contact and showing impressive power. He’s evoked comparisons to Dave Parker with his overall athleticism and long, powerful frame.
WHAT HE’LL BE: The Atlanta native is poised to take Chipper Jones’ mantle as the Braves’ franchise player, starting with hitting in the No. 3 hole.
WHEN HE ARRIVES: Unless Atlanta brings in a corner outfielder this offseason, Heyward should hit his way into the lineup in 2010.
3. Mike Stanton, of, Marlins
WHY HE’S HERE: No one in the minors combines Stanton’s athletic ability and physicality with his sheer power.
WHAT HE’LL BE: Stanton is a bigger, stronger version of Marlins special assistant Andre Dawson. He has 40-homer potential and fits the right-field profile perfectly.
WHEN HE ARRIVES: The Marlins haven’t been shy about promoting prospects aggressively, but Stanton struggled a bit in Double-A last season. If he struggles at first in his first big league action in 2010, don’t give up on him.
4. Desmond Jennings, of, Rays
WHY HE’S HERE: Once he stayed healthy for a full season, Jennings showed true five-tool talent. He has size, speed, strength, explosiveness and skills.
WHAT HE’LL BE: Jennings has many similarities to current Rays center fielder B.J. Upton, but his hitting track record is more consistent.
WHEN HE ARRIVES: The Rays have an outfield spot open presently for 2010, and Jennings should be a big league-ready, inexpensive solution.
5. Jesus Montero, c/dh, Yankees
WHY HE’S HERE: The minors’ best hitter, Montero gets compared to Mike Piazza as a catcher whose hitting tools far outstrip his defense. However, the Yankees don’t see him as Jorge Posada’s heir, because his defense is on par with Piazza’s or worse.
WHAT HE’LL BE: Because he’s likely to move out from behind the plate, Montero should be a first baseman or DH primarily. Other ex-catchers with premium bats such as Paul Konerko and Carlos Delgado leap to mind.
WHEN HE ARRIVES: New York’s offseason moves will dictate whether Montero spends all season at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre or moves up to the big leagues as a part-time catcher and DH.
6. Brian Matusz, lhp, Orioles
WHY HE’S HERE: The minors’ most polished pitching prospect threw 40-plus innings in the majors and showed impressive secondary stuff and a feel for changing speeds.
WHAT HE’LL BE: If Matusz keeps hitters honest enough with his fastball, he could give the Orioles their best starting pitcher since Mike Mussina’s departure in the late 1990s.
WHEN HE ARRIVES: He already did last year, but in 2010 Matusz will get to play a support role to veteran Kevin Millwood. He and Chris Tillman should form an effective 1-2 punch atop Baltimore’s improving rotation.
7. Pedro Alvarez, 3b, Pirates
WHY HE’S HERE: When Alvarez gets hot, he goes nuclear. He has impressive power and can go on home run binges, and he still is athletic enough to play a capable third base early in his career.
WHAT HE’LL BE: Alvarez has a chance to follow the Jim Thome career path as an early-career power-hitting third baseman who eventually settles in as a mashing first baseman.
WHEN HE ARRIVES: Not soon enough for the Pirates, who could use some pizzazz. Alvarez looked capable in Double-A but might have his arbitration clock delay his big league debut until midway through 2010.
8. Neftali Feliz, rhp, Rangers
WHY HE’S HERE: Feliz has one of baseball’s quickest, most electric arms, and showed it off when he first was called up to the major leagues last August.
WHAT HE’LL BE: The big question with Feliz is his ultimate role. Before tiring down the stretch last year, Feliz showed he could be an impact relief arm, and his feel for his secondary stuff comes and goes. The Rangers see that easy upper-90s gas, though, and see a starter.
WHEN HE ARRIVES: Feliz is expected to break camp in 2010 in Texas’ rotation. It might take a while for him to truly arrive as a starter, as was the case for flamethrowers such as Edwin Jackson and A.J. Burnett.
9. Buster Posey, c, Giants
WHY HE’S HERE: The 2008 College Player of the Year, Posey combines athletic ability and hitting prowess with playing a premium position.
WHAT HE’LL BE: Remember Russ Martin before Joe Torre played him 150 games a year? Posey may not have Martin’s fiery leadership, but he’ll be a similar catcher with better hitting ability.
WHEN HE ARRIVES: As soon as he shows he can receive effectively for pitchers like Brian Wilson and Matt Cain, who have premium velocity. Then he’ll have to take it up another notch to handle Tim Lincecum’s wicked velocity and late movement.
10. Madison Bumgarner, lhp, Giants
WHY HE’S HERE: No pitcher has had Bumgarner’s sheer results the last two seasons, when he went 27-4. He did it in 2009 with diminished velocity but it didn’t seem to matter as he mowed down Double-A competition at age 19.
WHAT HE’LL BE: Bumgarner’s mound presence and ability to pitch off his fastball evokes Cliff Lee. He has similar mound presence and could match Lee if he regains some of his slider’s lost bite.
WHEN HE ARRIVES: The Giants have enough other rotation options to keep Bumgarner on the farm for at least part of 2010, and perhaps until late in the season, when he could get another bullpen cameo.
11. Carlos Santana, c, Indians
WHY HE’S HERE: The Indians just had a switch-hitting, offensive minded catcher with offensive upside in Victor Martinez. Santana is nowhere near the polished hitter that Martinez was in Cleveland, but his patient, powerful approach should prove there’s more than one way to get it done.
WHAT HE’LL BE: A catcher with 20-homer ability who draws plenty of walks and can control the running game usually makes a few all-star games.
WHEN HE ARRIVES: Lou Marson, acquired from the Phillies in the Cliff Lee trade, should hold down the fort for most of 2010, but Santana could hit his way past Marson sooner than later.
12. Justin Smoak, 1b, Rangers
WHY HE’S HERE: A switch-hitter from the South, Smoak looks a bit like Chipper Jones at the plate with his stance and mannerisms. He has a chance to hit like Jones, too, with consistency, polish and power.
WHAT HE’LL BE: Smoak doesn’t quite have Mark Teixeira’s explosive power, but he’s a similar-caliber hitter and defender. He just needs to add a bit of polish and figure out how to turn on inside pitches.
WHEN HE ARRIVES: With Hank Blalock out of the picture, the first-base job is open in Texas. While Smoak has competition (especially if the Rangers add Mike Lowell from the Red Sox to play first), he should become the full-time first sacker by 2011.
13. Domonic Brown, of, Phillies
WHY HE’S HERE: The last man standing, at least at Double-A or better, in the Phillies farm system has a body that evokes Darryl Strawberry, with similar speed and defensive tools. He lacks the explosive wrists and power of Strawberry but should hit his share of homers eventually.
WHAT HE’LL BE: Some scouts actually see more Brown, who has surprising plate discipline for such a raw player, as more of a top-of-the-order factor than as a middle-of-the-order presence. He’s the greenest hitter on this list, but his talent is undeniable.
WHEN HE ARRIVES: Raul Ibanez and Jayson Werth are ensconced on the corners in Philadelphia, and Brown needs to polish up his defense anyway. He’ll be a minor leaguer in 2010 but could ease Ibanez out by 2011, the last year of the veteran’s contract.
14. Casey Kelly, rhp, Red Sox
WHY HE’S HERE: Kelly actually hit and pitched in 2009, as he had ability as a shortstop and wanted to hit. His hitting ability lagged behind his pitching prowess, and after a trip to the Arizona Fall League, Kelly realized his future is on the mound.
WHAT HE’LL BE: Kelly has a knack for adding and subtracting from his fastball and excellent curveball, sometimes toying with hitters. His athletic ability and innate pitchability evoke some comparisons to Zack Greinke, though his arm isn’t quite in Greinke’s class.
WHEN HE ARRIVES: Kelly first needs to prove he can handle a full-season workload as a pitcher. If he proves that in 2010, he should be ready by 2011.
15. Jeremy Hellickson, rhp, Rays
WHY HE’S HERE: A 6-foot righty from Iowa, Hellickson has surprising stuff and feel for pitching. His changeup has been his best pitch, but his fastball command took a huge step forward in 2009, allowing him to be the ace for Durham’s Triple-A championship team.
WHAT HE’LL BE: Yet another homegrown Rays pitcher for a franchise that couldn’t develop any pitching in its first six or seven years. Hellickson’s curve gives him a third quality pitch, and he gives the rotation another different look to play off Jeff Niemann’s size, David Price’s electric arm, James Shields’ premium changeup and Matt Garza’s power.
WHEN HE ARRIVES: Wade Davis beat him to the majors, so Hellickson may have to bide his time back at Durham in 2010. His time may have to come after a trade.
16. Kyle Drabek, rhp, Blue Jays
WHY HE’S HERE: The son of 1990 Cy Young Award winner Doug Drabek was the key piece in the Roy Halladay trade and instantly became Toronto’s top prospect. His stuff wasn’t always consistent in 2009, but at his best he has an excellent curveball, a plus fastball and a decent changeup.
WHAT HE’LL BE: If his changeup gets better, Drabek can be a No. 2 starter on a championship team. If not, he could become a Tom Gordon clone as a closer, bringing mid-90s heat and finishing off hitters with his curve.
WHEN HE ARRIVES: Drabek was vulnerable to lefthanded hitters last year, and the Blue Jays have pitching depth, so Drabek should be able to move up to Triple-A and hone his changeup in 2010 without having to immediately deal with the burden of being the Player Traded for Roy Halladay.
17. Alcides Escobar, ss, Brewers
WHY HE’S HERE: The Brewers brought up Escobar in August but he didn’t surpass 130 at-bats, leaving him prospect-eligible. Then Milwaukee traded J.J. Hardy to the Twins, handing the job to the best defensive player among prospects.
WHAT HE’LL BE: Escobar has the arm, infield actions, hands and range to win Gold Gloves at shortstop. He makes the routine plays and the tough ones, too. Plus, he has speed that impacts the game offensively, and his swing’s not so bad either.
WHEN HE ARRIVES: Escobar is more prepared than Rangers shortstop Elvis Adrus was last year and should have a bigger impact in 2010.
18. Aaron Hicks, of, Twins
WHY HE’S HERE: Five-tool ability to go with the ability to take a walk and premium defensive tools make Hicks an exciting prospect, even if he’s never played above Class A.
WHAT HE’LL BE: Hicks has some similarities to the Phillies’ Domonic Brown, though he might actually have more speed and a bit less power. He’s a tremendous athlete who was a scratch golfer as a teen, so it’s hard to put a limit on his talent.
WHEN HE ARRIVES: The Twins know what they’re doing with raw, toolsy center fielders, having developed Torii Hunter and Denard Span in succession. HIcks is next in line and has more offensive polish at a similar stage.
19. Dustin Ackley, of/1b, Mariners
WHY HE’S HERE: The No. 2 overall pick in the 2009 draft isn’t as explosive as Strasburg, but he was a steady .400 hitter in college who added power as a junior. He was far from overmatched in the AFL, batting .315 while adjusting to a relatively new position, center field.
WHAT HE’LL BE: Ackley has some similarities to Johnny Damon with his athletic ability (though he’s not as explosive as Damon was in his prime), plus-plus speed and poor throwing arm, but he might be a better pure hitter than Damon.
WHEN HE ARRIVES:Ackley has the bat to move quickly, but a position change could slow him down. Primarily a first baseman in college, he could play center field, left field or even second base.
20. Martin Perez, lhp, Rangers
WHY HE’S HERE: The third Ranger on the list, Perez has a delivery and repertoire that draw comparisons to Johan Santana. That may not be fair to Perez, but as an 18-year-old, he was the best pitcher in the South Atlantic League, and his compact delivery is a near-duplicate of Santana’s.
WHAT HE’LL BE: Well, have we mentioned Santana? There’s just a long way for Perez to go from A-ball to the majors, and his workload has been handled very carefully so far.
WHEN HE ARRIVES: Let’s give Perez a couple of years to let his low-90s fastball that touches 96, plus changeup and plus curveball time to incubate. He should be on this list at least two more times.
nolie
December 26th, 2009
12:30 am
, Phillips contract runs through 2011 with an option for 2012, so we’d actually have the opportunity to control him for longer than we’d be able to keep Uggla around. I really doubt any of this will happen, but I’d certainly like to see them consider RC
yeah I kinda doubt it to. no doubt that Phillips is a better defensive player than Uggla or Johnson or Prado, and he can steal a base. on the other hand even though he hits a few homers his OPS is not all that great @.742 and that is in one of the best hitters parks in baseball so it would almost assuredly be even lower in Atlanta.
If they traded Melky in a deal for Uggla and he played left I think I would prefer that to keeping Melky, getting Phillips and sticking Prado at util. That’s just me though
steelbells
December 26th, 2009
12:35 am
This is copied from MLBTR …Atlanta COULD get Jason Bay, bring some fannies to the seats again…The revenue increase alone would pay the majority of his contract…
…
Meanwhile, after rejecting a four-year, $60MM offer from Boston in July, Jason Bay appears to be having some trouble finding a new home.
The signing of Mike Cameron likely means that the Red Sox will be moving on, leaving the Mets as the top suitor. While some suggest that Omar Minaya & Co. will be willing to fork over the five-year pact that agent Joe Urbon has been asking for, it has been said that he does not want to play in Queens.
Regardless of what kind of contract each player fetches, it is difficult to imagine either player getting the money they wanted from their respective teams.
Braveheart
December 26th, 2009
12:36 am
sri, yeah, I forgot to respond to Efrim. Thanks for reminding me. My feelings about the offseason are mostly really negative, while my thoughts are kind of the polar opposite. Don’t know which I trust yet. I guess I should just let it play out.
But basically what I think and feel is that nothing’s made us better, and nothing’s made us worse. Just pretty much the same. Looks like the vision is to have the same 85 win team on paper we had last season. Same chance to win 100 if everything goes right as there is to win 70 if everything goes wrong, same chance to win 91 as to win 79, and so on. My gut feeling is that it sucks, while my thoughts are that it is fine and the things we are doing make sense.
I loathe seeing talent such as Gonzalez, Soriano and Vazquez walk out the door. I can intellectualize it, understand it, and rationalize it, and it makes sense to me when I think about it long enough. But my gut feeling is that it is so darn wrong. When I heard they had traded Vazquez, I was honestly sick to my stomach for a few hours. People at work thought I was crazy for caring that much about a team no one else in the office cares about even though we work only a few blocks away from the Ted. And I probably was crazy to feel that passionately about it.
But whatever. They finished third with them, they can finish third, first or fifth without them. For example, Denny Neagle went 36-16 with a 3.25 ERA over 440 innings in 1997 and 1998. The Braves traded him for Bret Boone and Mike Remlinger, and went to the World Series the next year without him.
Up to that point, Boone had a career 88 OPS+ in over 3000 plate appearances while Remlinger had a career 91 ERA+ in over 400 innings. Melky has a career 88 OPS+ in over 2000 plate appearances. Dunn hasn’t done anything in the majors yet, but Remlinger was a pretty lousy reliever to that point of his career, so that’s kind of a wash (although Remlinger turned into a pretty damn good reliever for the Braves). Plus, Wren got a 19 year old highly talented pitching prospect thrown in.
Melky is also 25, and Boone was 29. Dunn is 24, Remlinger was 32. Vizcaino is 19. Neagle was 30, Vazquez is 33. So, basically in a somewhat similar circumstance, Schuerholz traded a 30 year old for a 29 year old and a 32 year old, while Wren traded a 33 year old for a 25 year old, a 24 year old, and a 19 year old. Wren arguably got the better end of that deal on paper than Schuerholz did. How it plays out we shall see.
So, that’s kind of the conflict I’m talking about. When I examine it that way, my thinking is that it makes sense, although it continues to make me feel sick to my stomach.
Couch Tater
December 26th, 2009
12:41 am
I agree with Wren, it was time to end it all and Glavine should have taken it like a man instead of like a small boy pitching a fit.
Chipper thought it was handled poorly, also.
“It would have been a storybook ending if he got it here,” Jones said. “Emotionally, we all wanted to see Glav come in here and finish up. He’s not going to be allowed to do that.”
For those who attributed the move to finances, general manager Frank Wren said it had nothing to do with a $1 million bonus Glavine would have received for being placed on the major league roster.
Yeah, O.K. Frank.
BraveOne
December 26th, 2009
12:42 am
I still say put a package of prosepects and Melky together and trade for Adrian Gonz. He could play first and Glaus could provide vital backup at third for Chipper and at First when Adrian needs a break. Then the Braves could still go out and sign one more bat either a Nady/Derosa/Dye to play in the outfield.
Go get Adrian Gonz.
Braveheart
December 26th, 2009
12:48 am
Couch Tater, Merry Christmas and Roll Tide!
mexican-brave
December 26th, 2009
12:52 am
does anyone else besides me hate christmas???
Couch Tater
December 26th, 2009
12:57 am
Braveheart,
I was wondering if you had been spending all your time on the Tide boards.
David O'Brien
December 26th, 2009
1:05 am
TnBrian: Chuck James at 1:02 a.m. (nearly 24 hours ago, now that I think about what time it is back home) addressed your question about difference between the last “big move” and what Braves might still do. Depends on how you characteriz or classify “big” move. If they signed Nady as a LF and backup 1B, he might have a salary at least twice what Glaus is getting, but the move isn’t as big in terms of what Glaus could potentially do for this team if he’s healthy and hitting in the cleanup spot.
If they end up with DeRo, he’d have a deal twice as long as worth much more than Glaus’ deal. Bu again, DeRo would be brought in as a jack-of-all-trades type could would probably end up playing most days but splitting his time between several positions. And while he could end up being more important than Glaus, he shouldn’t be if Glaus is healthy and in the lineup on a regular basis. With Glaus, the Braves aren’t hoping he can hit 15 homer and drive in 80 runs — they think he can stay healthy and hit 25-30 homers and drive in 100 runs. So in that context, he’s a potentially much bigger move, a bigger signing.
But I didn’t mean to suggest the Braves were done. They might end up standing pat and going to spring training with this team, but that’s not what they’re looking to do right now. They’re tryinig to add another bad. It’s just not the big bat some here would like — not Adrian Gonzalez or Dunn, not Jason Bay. They have their first baseman, Glaus. And he fills the role they hope will be a bridge to Freddie Freeman. The move wouldn’t have made sense if they still planned to pursue a big-impact first baseman like Gonzalez or Dunn. That’s not happening, at least not unless Glaus fails his physical.
RHR
December 26th, 2009
1:08 am
Hey…wait a minute….is that DOB of the “I’m going off the grid for X glorious days starting Dec 24th” DOBs?
China Grove
December 26th, 2009
1:13 am
DOB (and the gang), thoughts on any of these players?
Rick Ankiel
Chad Bradford
Clay Condrey
Jerry Hairston, Jr.
Scott Podsednik
Matt Stairs
Randy Winn
Just throwing out some names we don’t usually hear around here. Still formulating my own opinions on these guys’ value, though most seem to be available on-the-cheap.
Couch Tater
December 26th, 2009
1:16 am
RHR,
Tell your son I’ll give him 200 bucks cash for that old used guitar. (I hope he was thrilled)
nolie
December 26th, 2009
1:22 am
wait a minute….is that DOB of the “I’m going off the grid for X glorious days starting Dec 24th” DOBs? RHR
he’s like a mother hen, gotta check in on his chicks regularly. He luvs us
David O'Brien
December 26th, 2009
1:23 am
Gotta crash now. Been up since 4:30 a.m. Eastern time, had a long day flying to Vancouver, driving to Whistler, etc. But it was tremendous, about 38 degrees and sunny when we landed in Vancouver and impossibly scenic drive up the Sea-to-Sky highway to Whistler. Got the snow board and boots rented, ready to hit slopes in morning. Meanwhile, the friend staying in my house while we’re away sounded like she was having a Christmas party tonight when I called. She denied (unconvincingly).
Later.
Wayne in Utah
December 26th, 2009
1:24 am
Hope everybody had a great Christmas day!
DOB Consider yourself scolded for turning on your computer during your vacation…..though I do appreciate the info.
RHR
So, did I hear that you got your son a guitar for Christmas? What kind/model if I may ask.
China Grove
I like Ankiel…..not too much on Winn now that he has lost his power stroke. Podsednick has been very up and down. Just don’t see those two being a fit, and I think Stairs is about done.
Wayne in Utah
December 26th, 2009
1:25 am
Party at Dave’s place!
David O'Brien
December 26th, 2009
1:26 am
RHR, believe it or not I had to log on to send this Chipper thing that I didn’t quite finish last night before I left home, since I ended up on phone with relatives for a while, talking with the nieces and nephews and brother and sister about the presents they got and gave, etc. Also brought the laptop because I don’t want to have 3000 e-mails to go through when i get home and don’t want to be completely in the dark when I return, in event that the Braves do something in the next week. I don’t think they will, but you never know with Wren. Things can happen quickly.
David O'Brien
December 26th, 2009
1:27 am
Wayne, we were in your burg for 90 minutes. Salt Lake City for layover. Ton of snow there, too. But nothing like the freakin’ winter wonderland up here in Whistler.
China Grove
December 26th, 2009
1:32 am
Wayne,
I think we need to remember that Winn’s power numbers are probably a reflection of the national park known as AT&T Park. I’d bet he still has pop, especially seemed to run-train on the Braves last season in Atlanta and San Fran alike.
nolie
December 26th, 2009
1:33 am
Party at Dave’s place! Wayne
Already there, come join.
Sgt. Pepper
December 26th, 2009
1:44 am
A little late, but these are my 10 favorites CD’s from 2009:
1. Armistice by Mutemath
2. Church Music by David Crowder Band
3. Live at the Ryman by Jonny Lang
4. Rocks Into Rivers by Seabird
5. Absence by Paper Route
6. White Lies for Dark Times by Ben Harper and Relentless7
7. Fiction Family by Fiction Family
8. Together Through Life by Bob Dylan
9. The Break Up by Pete Yorn and Scarlett Johanson (most pleasant surprise of the year)
10. The Fray by The Fray
Bravo Nam
December 26th, 2009
1:45 am
DOB
Have you heard Mishka’s latest album “Above the Bones”? If not, check it out… highly recommend it. Saw Harry Brown the other night, the newest offing from Michael Caine… great flick.
Wayne in Utah
December 26th, 2009
1:45 am
Dave
Yeah, we never get as much as they do up north. I have 1.5 feet on the ground in my back yard, but we live up the bench a ways.
BUT, this past week, we have been in Anaheim just outside of the Magic Kingdom. One more day and we head home on Sunday.
Have you ever boarded on the powder in UT? I haven’t ski’d in 20+ years, but as I remember it was great.
China
You could be right about Winn, but I just don’t see him having the flexibility of a Nady or DeRosa type.
nolie
December 26th, 2009
1:46 am
I think we need to remember that Winn’s power numbers are probably a reflection of the national park known as AT&T Park. CG
that’s been true to some extent, but he had a bad year last season compared to previous ones 671OPS for a 75 OPS+. That’s pretty stinky even after adjustments.He’ll be 36 I think, might be getting ready to hit the wall. 2 homers in 500+ ABs isn’t confidence inspiring IMO.
Andrew in PA
December 26th, 2009
2:04 am
sup yall
RHR
December 26th, 2009
2:06 am
Enjoy your holiday, Dave.
Tater – i’ll put your offer on the table but the thing is, youd have to take my son in the deal too becsuse it hasnt left his hands since he opened it. And im afraid you aint gettin my only son. For $200. Not today anyway.
China Grove – its a gretsch bigsby ummm thats all
i know and im not even sure i spelled that right lol jeffrey d and a few others saw the pics on my facebook. Jeffrey knows his stuff so he can correct anything i got wrong or left off. Its pretty and my musically inclined uncle helped me pick it out is all i really know about it.
RHR
December 26th, 2009
2:09 am
Oh sorry Wayne, that was you who asked about the guitar, not china grove. On my phone here.
nolie
December 26th, 2009
2:19 am
Oh sorry Wayne, that was you who asked about the guitar, not china grove. On my phone here.
I think it was Tater
Couch Tater
December 26th, 2009
2:24 am
RHR,
Deals off, I just pushed my son out of the nest. I have empty nest syndrome. PARTY at DAVES!
nolie
December 26th, 2009
2:27 am
I always thought a Bigsby was a vibrato kit?
RHR
December 26th, 2009
2:30 am
You would, nolie. Heh.
nolie
December 26th, 2009
2:32 am
well I see your take on it
, but seriously I thought they made vibrato kits for guitars.
RHR
December 26th, 2009
2:35 am
Either of you bammers going to pasadena? If i didnt know bravey worked in the a i’d swear he was 1 of the attorneys who asked for their case to be ppd until after the bcs title game lol.
RHR
December 26th, 2009
2:38 am
Im sure youre right nolie but well… Coming from you i couldnt let that go by without comment.
nolie
December 26th, 2009
3:32 am
On top of old Smokey
All covered with snow
I lost my true lover
For courtin’ so slow
For courting’s a pleasure (for courting’s a pleasure)
But parting is grief (but parting is grief)
And the false hearted lover (and the false hearted lover)
Is worse than a thief (is worse than a thief)
A thief will just rob you (a thief will just rob you)
And take what you have (and take what you have)
But a false hearted lover (but a false hearted lover)
Will lead you to the grave (will lead you to the grave)
And the grave will decay you (and the grave will decay you)
Turn you to dust (and turn you to dust)
Not one boy in a hundred (not one boy in a hundred)
A poor girl can trust (a poor girl can trust)
How do!
They’ll hug you and kiss you (they’ll hug you and kiss you)
Tell you more lies (and tell you more lies)
Than cross ties on a railroad (than cross ties on a railroad)
Or the stars
in the sky (or stars in the sky)
So come all you young maidens (come all you young maidens)
And listen to me (and listen to me)
Never place your affection (never place your affection)
On a green willow tree (on a green willow tree)
For the leaves they will wither (the leaves they will wither)
And roots they will die (the roots they will die)
You’ll all be forsaken (you’ll all be forsaken)
And never know why (and never know why)
nolie
December 26th, 2009
3:36 am
RHR I don’t know if I’m right or wrong, but your comment had me in stitches. appropriate since you are a nurse I guess
China Grove
December 26th, 2009
3:58 am
On the Winn account, here’s the shakedown:
Away from AT&T .295 .345 .404 OPS:.749
Not all that impressive, but considering he’s WAY below the Mendoza Line against lefties, he could be a pretty good platoon when used against righties, which is what he’d be with Diaz in left or right field.
He also absolutely ripped it up at The Ted, though the sample size is much too small. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not “all for this” or anything, just looking into some different names.
China Grove
December 26th, 2009
4:01 am
For the record, I AM all for picking up another arm for the bullpen. Bradford’s my number one choice, a guy like Clay Condrey could also fit the suit.
CB
December 26th, 2009
6:04 am
Good morning,getting old sucks. I can’t seem to sleep regular hours any more. I was catching up on the blog and reading some opinions on the blog and thought I would offer a couple of my own. (1) The signing of Tim Hudson- several on the blog have offered the opinion his signing was unnecessary. Tim is a Top 10 pitcher in the game and his signing at 9mil a year is dirt cheap,not signing him would have been foolish. (2) The trade of Vazquez and not Lowe- duh, nobody wanted Lowe at that salary and the Braves did not want to eat that much money. So, this left us with the choice of trading Vazquez, who had a limited NTC. I think Wren did a good job of getting as much as he received with this trade. He got a servicable major league OF who can be used as trade bait,a top 3 minor league prospect, and 9mil salary space. We have used 2mil to bring in a guy who could hit 25-30 homers for us. We still have 7mil which should bring in another good player. We also don’t know if we could have resigned Vazquez and if so at what cost. IMO,at this stage we are ahead of the game in this trade. Braveheart, I wish you posted more,you are brilliant and the blog needs you.
Bay Area Steve
December 26th, 2009
6:12 am
Who is this CB-fool?
Nobody gives a damn about your opinions, sir. What do you think this is, Christmas?
Ok, I’ll begrudgingly admit: not sleeping sucks, you stated solid opinions (this time, anyway; man, I’m an ass), and Braveheart should be required to post seven times daily, without exception. Oh, and congrats on the retirement. Shoot your age for me.
TnBrian,
I’m saddened to have made your list, though I can imagine your reasons why. In my defense, I think you’ve been a fairly solid off-season contributor. My problem is that when I see your name, all I can recall is your in-game BS. ‘Tis 162 deep; bitching about a sixth-inning lefty-righty matchup is Lentz-like, and I can’t find a way around that.
Bay Area Steve
December 26th, 2009
6:16 am
Further, worst-poster thoughts:
Semi-sober family obligations enables one to drink much later into the morning.
‘OB taking his laptop to Canada: priceless. Hard to fathom there’s a better cat to keep a team’s fans informed.
Bay Area Steve
December 26th, 2009
6:18 am
nolie,
Don’t think I can’t see you hittin’ on my girl.
Good Blog However
December 26th, 2009
6:19 am
DOB,
Would you please put your non-baseball comments on TV Shows, Music, etc. in another shaded color so I won’t waste my time on them when skimming the blog. Thanks in Advance, Merry Christmas, otherwise the product is superb. – Green Tinted Sixties Mind
Green Tinted Sixties Mind,
Thanks for the suggestion. No, I will not.
————————————–
DOB… You are rude and condescending to the people who support you. It’s weird… Don’t tell me “but he was rude!” That’s a cop out and on the whiney side. Maybe people like Lentz can get away with being a jerk, but not the host. I’m surprised you haven’t figured that out by now.
You don’t have to respond “in kind” to every single post that gets under your skin. The negativity becomes overwhelming–especially when combined with everyone else’s. Don’t have to be a cheerleader but we don’t need an angry host either.
Maybe you were trying to be funny but man, this post was not funny. Now Mark Bradley, he is funny and really so is Jeff Schultz. I think that’s because their personalities are confident and engaging. You seem to be rather sullen. Now Bradley and Schultz, they know how to roll with the punches because man, they are really hated.
Bay Area Steve
December 26th, 2009
6:25 am
So, anybody seen these Christmas lights/decorations that are set to music, via a very short-range FM transmission?
One dude had some electric guitar I’d never heard of; sounds right up the blog’s alley. But, I’m sayin’ that to say this: one house had its lights timed to a poem, seemingly ascribed to Santa Claus. Bearded-present-guy was narrating a poem that talked about the sacrifice our troops are making, all over the world. Very deep stuff, even for me. Remarkable Xmas display, segueing into this tear-inducing narration…
Anybody know the poem?
Bay Area Steve
December 26th, 2009
6:41 am
Good Blog However,
I find ‘OB’s style refreshing, in this age of everybody not trying to offend anybody. Dude tells it like it is. What’s wrong with that? He’s certainly got a little ass in ‘im, but you know where the dude stands. Nowadays, anybody who wants anything from you, or is trying to sell you something, is afraid to tell the truth, is constantly kissin’ your ass. What happened to tellin’ it like it is?
To your example above, Sixties man is trying to make him change a blog that has become one of the most successful, traditional-paper run blogs in the country. ‘OB, in his way, disagreed. And, when you see it that way, Sixties’ suggestion is BS, and all ‘OB did was say so. Fact of the matter is, dude can get away with, and thrive, being a jerk, as you described him (I certainly wouldn’t.)
The most-telling thing for me is this: a year or two ago, ‘OB, as a result of his typical style, pissed off some regulars. They complained, and threatened to leave. ‘OB said sorry, but I is who I is, and let them leave. Isn’t a guy being true to himself, and to his readers, more important than making sure not to offend any of the myriad personalities on his blog? You’d truly rather have the latter?
JB
December 26th, 2009
7:06 am
Good move. Javy V was my Braves MVP last year. We got allot in return and saved 9 million bucks in the process.
He has one year on his contract and then cash in through FA. We have the best rotation in the NL Melky will platoon with Diaz (total — .304/19HR/93RBI). As for Glaus, 33, he’ll be playing for his last big contract. Also, hopefully will interchange Chipper and Troy at the corner positions to burp Chipper up to playing at 1B.
CB
December 26th, 2009
7:13 am
BAS,thanks,I think. You should be on the top of anybody’s good list,most of the time(anyway,Im an ass).
richbrave
December 26th, 2009
7:21 am
Good Blog However:
He’s not a host, he’s the blogmeister. We are the trained animals and this is his circus. Quit complaining. If you don’t like rude, make like a tree and leaf, And don’t let the door hit you in the azz on the way out. Besides, who the hell are you? A wanna’ be competitor trying to damage his following? Fagiddaboudit. Complain to the AJC not to others here. Or be more accepting, settle in, and be prepared to write about baseball, music, and BBQ. It is what it is.
richbrave
December 26th, 2009
7:35 am
CB:
So, dude, have you settled into a comfortable mind-set about being a geezerette? I felt froggy my whole 65th year. Or have you not yet reached that glorious threshold to the rest of your life? “Rest of your life” sounds like PAUL HARVEY, “and now the rest of the story.” Wow, old, gettin’ old.
richbrave
December 26th, 2009
7:41 am
nolie:
First time I’ve read the words to “Old Smoky” Dammed depressing.
CB
December 26th, 2009
7:44 am
richbrave,enjoying it so far. My wife and I owned a small business and were able to retire early at 60. We are not rich by any means,but we are comfortably blessed. I also like to write short stories and poetry, have been published by several magazines under a different name. Overall, leading a happy life and enjoying the Braves.
richbrave
December 26th, 2009
7:47 am
BRAVEHEART:
The Braves traded him for Bret Boone and Mike Remlinger, and went to the World Series the next year without him.
And the answer to that was MIKE REMLINGER. NEVER saw a great set-up man anywhere or at anytime. Period.
richbrave
December 26th, 2009
7:53 am
CB:
Same here except at 55 due to vascular issues. And the “rich” in richbrave referrs to RICHMOND not money,money,money, mon-n-ney, m-o-o-n-n-e-e-e-y-y-y. Reminds me of an old song I used to enjoy immensely. Hope you and yours enjoyed the blessing of being alive and together. In living this long, I’ve come to believe that’s all we have in this life.
richbrave
December 26th, 2009
8:07 am
CB:
I do the poetry thing. Have most of my life. Never published however. I draw and paint, but somehow that’s dropped by the wayside as I’ve aged. I have a slight obsessive disorder, like JACK NICHOLSON in “As good as it gets” just not as severe, and once I had by-pass, I just haven’t gotten “past” it in my mind. Second time around’s a bummer, and just made it worse. But I did go back to study and finished an M.A. in history at the UNIVERSITY of RICHMOND last year. Oh, I build things in the yard, walls patios, bridges etc. – love working with stone- but that time’s coming to a close now. Can’t physically do much anymore. Blogging helps, antique space occupies some time, obsessive collector. Looking for the next direction for life’s winds of change to blow me in. How’s retirement for youself and your kith and kin?
CB
December 26th, 2009
8:25 am
richbrave,wife has conjestive heart failure and requires some attention. I ‘m healthy as a horse,thank God. We bought an RV and are planning some trips this year,one of them in March to Braves spring training and hoping to have a good time. I wish you the best with your health issues-try to keep yourself occupied and mind sharp.
Bravissimo
December 26th, 2009
8:29 am
Someone mentioned BBQ?…I grew up in South Ga, so thats the kinda bbq im used to…what exactly is North Carolina bbq? I know its different in Eastern and western.
My wife is from western TN and shes a bbq snob, I think its good there,but nothing better than i grew up with.
richbrave
December 26th, 2009
8:32 am
CB:
Atta’ boy, go get ‘um. Life’s a gift.
bravesfan87
December 26th, 2009
8:36 am
Wren is grasping at straws…helloo…it’s obvious he doesn’t have a clue. He handled Smoltz and Glavine wrong..He gave Derek Lowe waaaaaayyy tooooo much money. Gavae Hudson too much money and too many years..Now he just traded away the best pitcher they had…for prospects??? we all know the hit rate on top prospects. And Terry P. is still the hitting coach?? I’ve gotta finish..my blood pressure is getting to high like it always does when talking about the Braves lately..
richbrave
December 26th, 2009
8:37 am
Eastern N.C. BBQ is vinegar based to cut the greasy taste of the meat. Western Q is tomato-based to smother the grease. I grew up in S.E. VIRGINIA where the BBQ is like eastern N.C. version. Of course, for me there is no other. Every region has a variation, TEXAS, K.C., GA., TENN., its a mindset really because deep down it’s still a pig.
richbrave
December 26th, 2009
8:39 am
bravesfan87:
Let’s all chant together – fire WREN, fire WREN, fire WREN. Whew, I’m tired how about you? LOL.
Efrim
December 26th, 2009
8:41 am
Braveheart, thanks for replying to my post. I kind of feel the same way about the Vazquez trade and other dealings this winter. And I did feel sick to my stomach at work when the news came down, as well. Not quite sure how our team is better on paper than the 2009 version. Good to see you posting again. Happy Holidays.
Robert
December 26th, 2009
8:57 am
One more year of watching gold being turned into manure. And then we’ll finally have a real chance starting in 2011
TommyP
December 26th, 2009
8:58 am
If Wren doesn’t put together a playoff team this year, how long does he have in Atlanta?
(and I’m not in the “fire Wren now” crowd….just interested in hearing how long a leash y’all have him on)
Bravissimo
December 26th, 2009
9:03 am
yea I always thought pork was pork too. Guess I could say that i never had a pork i didnt like.
Is Glaus content with any role that he might get with the Braves? I know he played 3rd in 07. But at this stage in his career, is he just happy to have a job?
TommyP
December 26th, 2009
9:09 am
Someone said Glaus will have a great year this year because he’s playing for his last contract.
Wasn’t that his status last year? (playing for a contract?)
Piedmont Blues
December 26th, 2009
9:19 am
Bravissimo,
At this point, Glaus is probably very happy to not only have a job but to also have every opportunity to play every day.
DOB said it: if Glaus is healthy, he could put up very impressive power numbers. In turn, he could parlay that performance into a nice deal with another team for 2011. (When Freeman should be ready.)
As for you folks suggesting that Holliday might make some sort of special deal to come to Atlanta, sorry. His agent is Scott Boras. He had every opportunity to sign a team-friendly deal with Colorado (where he was beloved — trust me, I lived there) two years ago and didn’t.
If you’re looking for a dynamic player who could put fannies in the seats, might I suggest Jason Heyward? Jordan Schafer, if healthy, also has the potential to be a Brett Butler, gritty, blue-collar type. Except Schafer seems to have a lot more pop than Butler ever did.
Patience, please.
LongtimeBravesfan
December 26th, 2009
9:22 am
From what I read, Glaus came to Atlanta for LESS guaranteed money because he wants to play for Bobby and the Braves. That sounds like a good motivation to me.
Piedmont Blues
December 26th, 2009
9:22 am
TommyP,
By even asking how long a leash Wren is on, you’re suggesting you want him gone. Just my opinion.
Nonetheless, unless the Braves finish fifth in 2010, he should be safe for another couple of years. No one has any idea how much the makeup of the team will change after Bobby retires. There’s little doubt Cox had a lot of input into the composition of the roster. It won’t truly be Wren’s team until Bobby’s gone.
dap01
December 26th, 2009
9:30 am
subtractions:
Javy
Soriano
Gonzolas
Additions:
Glaus
Melky
Wagner
Saito
We could be better if EVERY thing turns out positive. We could be a little worse if not.
We have had an ok offseason, but with the way we played at the end of the year, the options with money and players, I was hoping for a bigger splash.
We did especially well if our goal was to save money.
I am also tired of hearing, “we don’t know how they count bonus and salaries”. Bottom line:
Johnson (3)
Gonzo (3)
Anderson (2.5)
Church (3)
Soriano (6)
Hudson (6)
Javy (11)
Subtotal (34) cut in salary
Wagner 7
Saito 4
Melky 3
Glaus 2
Diaz 2
additions +18
That leaves us at 16 million less than last year. Maybe I have forgotten someone but even if that number is 6 million less, it is a shame that the “game plan going into this offseason” netted us a team that leaves $10 million on the table. Our team is still not a balanced offensive team.
Frank Wren (maybe he has a plan) needs to still trade and move to get the optimal team that he can for the money. Because right now we are all considering filling out the bench with $10 million.
Something just does not seem right about this offseason. I am a Frank Wren fan but now I am not so optimistic.
Psg81
December 26th, 2009
9:38 am
I think Glaus was a good pickup its not like the overpaid for him dude had better offers from other teams but wanted to come to Atlanta. Yes he was injured for most of the year in 2009 but he has said it was do to his shoulder not being 100% and not being able to do the things in the gym that would allow him to get ready for the season and hes said he is able to get back to his regular off season workout schedule so I think this scenario is much different than last year.( Remember last year he had surgery in January and started the year hes had well over a year to recover and get ready now.)
TommyP
December 26th, 2009
9:50 am
Piedmont: Your opinion is wrong. I’m not a fan of Wren but by no means has he done ANYTHING at this point to warrant losing his job. He sucks in PR but those weren’t fireable offenses.
I ask because the pro-Wren crowd act like he’s got the Midas touch. When discussing things he’s done poorly, wrong, etc. all you hear are excuses. I just want to know how many years out of the postseason will he be allowed to stick around.
Your last statement proves my point. This won’t be Wren’s team until Cox is gone? Are you kidding me? Wren has as much say in the composition of this team as any other GM in baseball.
Piedmont Blues
December 26th, 2009
9:54 am
dap01,
I’m not getting the same salary info. From Cots Contracts, Hudson’s 2010 deal is $9 million, or $4 million less than he made in 2009 (to be sure, some of his 2009 money was covered by insurance). Chipper’s is $13 million, or $2 million more than 2009. Heap will earn $2 million more than in 2009. McLouth goes from $2 million to $4.5 million. Omar gets an extra half-million. Moylan, Jair, and Yunel might get modest raises, perhaps an extra half-million total. (Kenshin actually gets $1 million less …)
Adding all this up, I see the Braves having about $7 million or $8 million to spend, not $16 million.
And of course if Thurston or Mitch Jones make the major-league roster, they’ll have to be paid.
So long as the 2010 budget stays close to 2009’s, there seems to be enough money to sign a mid-level free agent or swap for a similar contract, but not much more.
TommyP
December 26th, 2009
10:00 am
Piedmont: I think the problem that so many of us make (including myself) is taking the average salary of the contract and assuming that’s what each guy will make. That website seems to have the details.
Piedmont Blues
December 26th, 2009
10:04 am
TommyP,
Yes, Wren’s front office has not operated as seamlessly as Schuerholz’s. Still, do you think that if Wren wanted to bring in a genuine head case like a Bradley that Cox would have stood for it? And yes, Schuerholz was much smoother in the PR aspects of player movement. Glavine would have departed on much different terms (in public, anyway) had Homeboy still been in charge. (My guess is, Smoltz still would have been whiny.)
That said, Cox still has a lot of say in the makeup of the team.
I’ve been a Wren fan because of moves like the Renteria and Ohman deals. Schuerholz seemed to view the farm system as an asset to use in acquiring veteran players, not all of them that great. He didn’t like picking up prospects he didn’t draft. Wren has been a lot more creative in both acquiring big-league ready talent and restocking the minors. Especially with a roster that’s been burdened by a handful of big contracts for a mid-budget team.
If they don’t make the postseason soon, of course, he’ll get fired.
Lew
December 26th, 2009
10:05 am
Got to agree with Braveheart’s overnight post. My gut reaction was to hate these deals, but further reflection with a more logical outlook makes them seem reasonable. Guess we’ll just have to have faith that The House Wren has an ultimate clue. I think he does-at least based on past performances.
Maybe we LOF’s who can’t sleep need to take over the blog from the drunks some night-or join them, anyway.
Jfreak13713
December 26th, 2009
10:10 am
The big issue will can Gluas stay healthy and hit for power?? We won’t know until play begins but if Glaus can get 25+ homers then the deal makes sense when compared to LaRoche because LaRoche will hit around 25 homers and would have cost more money.
The “MELKY” trade is a scratcher unless you view it assuming a future trade which is what I thought when I first heard of the move, but agian only time will tell.
All in all the Braves appear to have a solide club that can contend for the wildcard but with a little luck maybe a World Series? Don’t forget teams like the Marlins and the Twins who don’t spend like the Yankees and somehow find a way win every year and sometimes win a World Series like the Marlins.
I’ll reserve judgement on the moves, for now!
VaBraveFan
December 26th, 2009
10:13 am
They have enough remaiing funds to add one more guy. Say Nady we could land for around 5-6 mil.
Wren has constructed a playoff team if all goes as planned. DeRo would require a 2 yr deal atleast matching 2-12.
LF Nady CF McLouth RF Cabrera/Diaz ‘
Bring Heyward up mid season like we did with Hanson. Allowing us to maybe move a outfielder in trade. Schafer i think is gonna be with here in 2011.
With our depth and potential might not need to add another player. Some believe Schafer is gonna be ready. Will have Diaz, Cabrera, McLouth, Heyward, Schafer and the team only needs 4 OF’s. and going with 4 of them looks good. Depending on how we use Heyward. Heyward could crush in Spring Training and earn the Job.
jeffrey d
December 26th, 2009
10:14 am
Maybe we LOF’s who can’t sleep need to take over the blog from the drunks some night-or join them, anyway.
LOF?
Piedmont Blues
December 26th, 2009
10:20 am
VaBraveFan,
Something tells me Wren and Cox believe Heyward will be ready to open the season in Atlanta. Otherwise they would have sweetened the deal with the Yankees to get Swisher. If there are any other additions, I see them to be insurance policies: low-dollar signings for guys who could be traded or moved to part-time roles.
And of course, there’s nothing wrong with having money in reserve to make an acquisition during the season if the offseason plans don’t work …
Couch Tater
December 26th, 2009
10:20 am
RHR,
I hinted about going to Pasadena, but my squeeze has a new grandbaby and he’s cuter and younger than me…
Couch Tater
December 26th, 2009
10:24 am
THE grandbaby, not the squeeze, RHR. (Smartazz)
CB
December 26th, 2009
10:28 am
jeffrey d,I was afraid to ask. I thought I might resemble that remark.
McFann O
December 26th, 2009
10:31 am
Good morning, folks! Yes, the U-Verse box at the front of the neighborhood is intact, so I have returned…
Dude! TnBrian gave me the “least funniest poster ‘award’”? Dangit…and Tomahawkin said that equaled “most annoying”. Actually, I’m not even sure if I should be hurt by that…though it does stink to “win” it over “certain” bloggers–if you “know” what I mean.
Hope everyone had a Merry Christmas!
Later…
Lew
December 26th, 2009
10:31 am
jeffrey d-Lovable Old Farts
VaBravesFan-A potential Nady acquisition scares the hell out of me. Check his record. He has NEVER played more than 148 games and that only once in his entire career. He missed an entire season last year with TJ surgery NUMBER TWO. He will cost more than a trade for Uggla would cost and Nady has hit 25 HR once and 20 one other time. Uggla is under contract for two more years and has hit AT LEAST 27 HR in ALL of his four seasons.
Uggla is brutal defensively, but with Glaus at first, do you trust LF to a player with two TJ surgeries to even hit the cutoff man with any regularity?
jeffrey d
December 26th, 2009
10:31 am
CB – I looked up LOF on Urban Dictionary before I asked, and I saw “lord of the flamers” and “lots of farts.” I doubt Lew meant either of those.