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
7,406 comments Add your comment
Andrew in PA
December 24th, 2009
2:52 am
lol troy glaus is our slugger
nolie
December 24th, 2009
2:57 am
So his value is lessened, but the groups’ value increases because of him. I know… strange way to look at it. But I truly do not expect all of them to reach their projections.
I think it’s one reasonable way to think about it.Makes sense at least emotionally.
as for Melky I don’t think he has had that kind of problem, and The Ted is a much tougher park to hit in than the New Yankee field. I just hope we don’t have to depend on him as a full-time season long starting OFer.
KC
December 24th, 2009
2:58 am
Chop Chop, I want the same thing!! I would love to have an owner that doesn’t care if the team operates at a loss every single year. But there aren’t many of those around. Just about every pro sports franchise owner is either unwilling or unable to operate at a loss every year. That’s true whether we’re talking private or corporate ownership.
Again, Ted Turner didn’t have to care if the Braves lost money because he was making it back in the form of TBS television revenue. Besides that, he literally had 10 billion dollars in the bank, so…
But even if Ted owned the team today, things probably wouldn’t be what they once were. That big national TV revenue no longer exists, and Ted lost most of his fortune in the AOL collapse. So those (not you) who think all would be right with the world if Ted just bought the team back… are unaware of changing realities.
An owner that says “Do whatever you need to do, just try not to lose to much money each year”, and gets out of the way… is about all most sports fans can hope for. And that’s what we’ve got.
Now, if Mark Cuban wanted to buy the Braves (though I can’t stand the man, personally), I’d be all for it. He might just be the kind of rare owner willing to lose money every year to win. But I don’t think Liberty is a bad owner at all. And they’re WAY the hell better than AOL!!
Tom O'Hawke
December 24th, 2009
2:58 am
Does anyone have a clue as to who PTBNL was just talking to in his long posting (2:45)? Anyway, may your holidays be blessed, also.
Chop Chop, Merry Christmas to you too, my friend. I hope Santa gives you what you want.
KC
December 24th, 2009
3:00 am
Couch Tater, thanks for the link. Also, thanks for not Rick-Rolling me with the link! =)
nolie
December 24th, 2009
3:02 am
lol troy glaus is our slugger Andrew
if he has a year like 2008 he will be our slugger, and if he is healthy he will likely produce. If not, he won’t cost much. He’s the guy I preferred if they knew he was healthy and if they felt comfortable with him at first.
I don’t believe they will add another bat as good as Nady, but I would like to be wrong about it.
nolie
December 24th, 2009
3:03 am
Again, Ted Turner didn’t have to care if the Braves lost money because he was making it back in the form of TBS television revenue. Besides that, he literally had 10 billion dollars in the bank, so…
But even if Ted owned the team today, things probably wouldn’t be what they once were. That big national TV revenue no longer exists, and Ted lost most of his fortune in the AOL collapse. So those (not you) who think all would be right with the world if Ted just bought the team back… are unaware of changing realities. KC
good points
PTBNL
December 24th, 2009
3:05 am
Tom O, sorry. I was conversing with nolie.
Nolie, I agree about Melky. It certainly seemed that he might have actually liked the NY pressure. I don’t follow them at all, but it seems that I did see his name mentioned a few times at mlb.com for having come through with the walk off hit or something. So though I was (am) hoping that the difference would work in the Braves’ favor, I do realize that it sure does not look like it will. But… I still hope. lol
nolie
December 24th, 2009
3:05 am
Does anyone have a clue as to who PTBNL was just talking to in his long posting (2:45)? Anyway, may your holidays be blessed, also. TOM O’
he was talking to me Tom, but Merry Christmas to you too
Tomahawkin
December 24th, 2009
3:06 am
Tom O’Hawke…
I think PTBNL was talking to me because I do not like Milky Cabrera at all…
The fact that his offensive numbers are inlated furiates me. A) he hit with in a all-star lineup and B) he hit in a hitters paradise (Yankee stadium) Camden Yards, Fenway, Tropicana, etc makes his numbers look good
If he plays a full season in the NL (especially hitting here) he hits 6-9 homeruns, Watch…
Andrew in PA
December 24th, 2009
3:07 am
if frank is done with his starting positions you have to be a little upset and dissapointed..we’ve spent 5 million for 2 spots ..is that it. really,and traded javy.
Tomahawkin
December 24th, 2009
3:09 am
It speaks volumes that I’d rather have Johnny Damon over Milky Cabrera. I have never been a Johnny Damon fan because of his T-Ball League Arm…
But Milky Cabrera? As it stands right now our lineup is Nasty (Sarcasm)
Thanks Liberty Media!
Wayne in Utah
December 24th, 2009
3:11 am
As much as folks on here rail on the Yankees for “buying” a pennant, and now you want the Braves to do the same thing? While I wouldn’t be opposed to an increase in the budget, say 5% per year, but I like having a team that has to depend on developing their own players via the farm system and scouting.
OK Tom O, I have finished banging my head. Actually, it seems that N8 and I were both telling coach basically the same thing.
I really don’t understand those that are questioning FW’s moves. Frank started out the off season with a game plan, and he is methodically implementing it. He is making the right moves within the confines of his budget. I like that he plays no favorites with the old, washed up guys. Or with the homies (LaRoche).
I grade Frank an A so far!
Andrew in PA
December 24th, 2009
3:11 am
Frank spends way too much in the bullpen..3 mill for saito,i hate it,he could have waited and found a younger are for cheaper,hell mike dunn could be the guy
Tomahawkin
December 24th, 2009
3:11 am
Andrew in PA
I think we settle on DeRosa or Nady and Wren will be done. Our Lineup is gonna be Garbage Next Year! I don’t know if I can stomach another season of watching our pitchers pitch 7 inning and give up 2 runs or less and Lose!
Tom O'Hawke
December 24th, 2009
3:12 am
“Tom O, sorry. I was conversing with nolie” — PTBNL
That’s OK, man. Your posting was interesting, I was just curious as to whom you were addressing. BTW, I’m sorry for calling you a “Nincompoop” before. That’s when I thought you might have been Dentz.
CharlieAlphaBravo
December 24th, 2009
3:13 am
Okay, here are my favorite albums of the year, in no particular order. My list is only a dozen long because I don’t listen to the obscene amount of new music that DOB manages to.
Drive-By Truckers Live From Austin, TX
How can you not love the extended version of 18 Wheels of Love? Not to be confused with the blogotarian of the same name…
Drive-By Truckers The Fine Print
They finally recorded an all-time live favorite in the Zevon anthem Play It All Night Long, and the Like a Rolling Stone Dylan cover is done brilliantly with each member of the band making a verse their own.
The Flaming Lips Embryonic
Another excellent record by the kings of Acid Rock.
Dave Matthews Band Big Whiskey and the GrooGrux King
The band had lost me with everything after Before These Crowded Streets, but returned to form in a strong way with this latest release. I know that’s not going to be a favorite of many here, but the music’s good, regardless of their image.
Muse The Resistance
Muse continues to impress. Their drummer might be from another planet.
Phish Joy
Phish’s first album since reuniting is aptly named. They are clearly ecstatic to be back together, and you can hear it in their music.
Neko Case Middle Cyclone
She’s would be hot even if I had never seen her. But I did… And she’s hot.
Nirvana Live at Reading
Why is this just now being released? I could’ve listened to is 1,000 times by now and Unplugged and Muddy Banks could’ve gotten some rest.
The Mars Volta Octahedron
They’re weird… But in a good way.
Tom Waits Glitter and Doom Live
Glitter in a Waits title brings back sublime memories of a spotlight and a spinning sequined bowler. It’s the little things that make a show one for the ages.
The Mountain Goats Life of the World to Come
Hadn’t even heard of these guys until earlier this year, but I’m glad I did. Folk rock at its finest.
The Derek Trucks Band Already Free
He used to play with the Allman Brothers Band, and their influence is unmistakable.
Now for my other list, most disappointing albums of the year….
Green Day 21st Century Breakdown
A weak follow-up to American Idiot, it went a little overboard on the Pop in Pop Punk. On the other hand, their show at the Gwinnett Arena this year was one of the best I’ve ever seen. My ears are still ringing.
Weezer Raditude
God, what happened to these guys? Not a good year for bands I was crazy about in the seventh grade…
Andrew in PA
December 24th, 2009
3:13 am
wayne get off the crack pipe..an A,wow what is this a kindergarden grade system,color outside the lines and you still get an A
Tomahawkin
December 24th, 2009
3:14 am
Andrew in PA
I hated the Saito deal as well! Especially since Medlen Pitched so well the last 2 months. I thought Medlen was gonna be given a bigger role in the Pen in 2010…
I don’t know what in Tarnation Wren was thinking when he offered Saito a contract?
PTBNL
December 24th, 2009
3:16 am
Tom O, that’s ok. I would have never thought I would have been confused with Paul Lind (you know who I am talking about) so it totally took me off guard.
You seem to have quite a since of humor. I appreciate that.
Roman Gal
December 24th, 2009
3:17 am
there’s an outside shot we can still save your mouse. Tom O’Hawke
Ok, well at least some part of me will live on.
Tomahawkin
December 24th, 2009
3:17 am
I give Wren a C and Cheap Liberty Media an D-. I said F earlier because I’m still P’d about the Vazquez trade
We should’ve let Hudson walk! He isn’t a number one no more…He Doesn’t scare people like he did in Oakland when he had the highest winning percentage for arount 4 or 5 years in a row
Hudson can’t match up against J. Santana and Roy Halliday…Not gonna happen with our AWFense
Tom O'Hawke
December 24th, 2009
3:19 am
PTBNL, see? You think we’re smart enough to know who you’re talking to? I hope you learned that we’re not.
“OK Tom O, I have finished banging my head. — Wayne in Utah
Well, it’s probably too late now, but I was just wondering why you were banging your head?
nolie
December 24th, 2009
3:19 am
Ok, well at least some part of me will live on
you will live in fame forever as a blog icon!
Tomahawkin
December 24th, 2009
3:20 am
I still think that Jermaine Dye can be bought in on a 1 year deal at 9mil/per year, That is unless the F.O. keeps playing the Cheap role and holdout like they did last year…He’d be a great 1 year fill-in for when Heyward is ready. Plus a good mentor…
Wayne in Utah
December 24th, 2009
3:21 am
Andrew and Tomahawkin
Let’s assume that Frank is done…..but can we really assume that.
take a look see
Melky Cabrera is better than Garret Anderson. defensively, and slightly offensively. He will save runs when he plays in left. He might platoon some w/ Diaz.
Heyward is going to be at least as good as Diaz/Church/Francoeur in right field. Maybe a LOT better.
McLouth is going to have a better year, marginally better, but better….write it down!!! (sorry, couldn’t resist)
Glaus, if his shoulder is healed, WILL be better year round than LaRoche. If he is not, then Freeman might get an early call up, or we will get someone else.
With Glaus in the lineup, Chipper is bound to improve, hopefully by a LOT.
McCann, with his eyesight issues solved, will be better.
Prado and Yunel should be at least as good, if not a tad bit better.
The rotation will be better, even with Vazquez gone. Hanson will pitch all year, Jurrjens has star potential. Hudson has been an ace, and is now healthy. Kawakami should improve from year 1. Lowe will likely bounce back. At 37, he is NOT old, and hasn’t always been a starter.
Soriano and Gonzo were too inconsistent, and Wagner and Saito will be better.
Do I need to keep going on? AND, if FW gets one more bat, then we are MUCH better off.
Cameron was my first choice, but he wanted too much money and too many years. Melky will be a good 4th outfielder.
Mitchie-san
December 24th, 2009
3:21 am
Tomahawkin, go drink some eggnog and relax. Its not even Christmas yet, man.
nolie
December 24th, 2009
3:22 am
I still think that Jermaine Dye can be bought in on a 1 year deal at 9mil/per year T Hawkin
I don’t want Dye at all and sure not for 9 mil. the guy needs to DH somewhere
PTBNL
December 24th, 2009
3:23 am
Maybe what he was thinking when he got Saito is what many expressed when he got Wagner…. will he hold up? Can he go back to back days? Etc. Saito has closing experience like no one in house. It seems to be a safeguard.
I don’t know that is what he was thinking. But it seems that these days people go down like dominoes. Ask the Mets!
In fact, it seems that he has tried to have a back up for every position possible this season. Cox could have a different looking defense and lineup to through at the other teams for every game of the series. lol
Andrew in PA
December 24th, 2009
3:23 am
Tomahawkin, if the braves got derosa then i would consider that an upgrade over anderson,also i’d take glaus over krotchman anyday,also you gotta give it to melky over church..i just fear that frank sayin another smaller move that he isnt going to acquire a derosa type,derosa would be our biggest move this offseason aside from wagner,if you add dero it changes everything i guess..you’d have, nate mc,derosa,melky and diaz, not bad not great,but better then last year,and i understand that nothing is a given but glaus is a huge risk,not money wise but if he gets hurt,that was supposed to be our power supply.
David O'Brien
December 24th, 2009
3:23 am
Braves Fan RSD: Just glanced at your payroll figures (2:28 a.m.). Couple of things jumped out right away. First, Chipper’s payroll number is $14 mill, not $13 mill — it’s $13 mill salary plus prorated portion of his $3 mill signing bonus.
Secondly, Kawakami’s number is $7.66 mill, not the $6.7 mill you list. It’s one-third of his $23 million, three-year contract. The salaries are even every season for payroll purposes; didn’t matter that Braves gave him $2 mill up front as a bonus to get settled last season; they still count that prorated over life of contract, to my understanding.
That’s nearly $2 mill added to your $78 mill estimate right away. I haven’t looked at all the others, but did notice you listed every one of the non-arb guys by their 2009 salaries. Guys like Escobar, Jurrjens and Prado could climb towards or above $500,000, and others like Hanson, Chavez, O’Flaherty and Medlen will get raises, too. Not big raises, but they’re not making the minimum $400,000 in their second seasons.
So just as a round figure, let’s add $500,000 there. Puts it between $80-81 mill.
You’ve got only 22 players on that 25-man roster, including only three OFs and one backup INF. Add another utiliity infielder (maybe Thurston, maybe someone else), another OF (maybe Heyward, maybe someone else) and a 25th-man who’s a pinch-hitter type.
At minimum, the extra OF and infielder adds more than another $1 mill, even if it’s Thurston and Heyward. So now you’re at least at $82 mill or more (even though those spots aren’t determined, you know that’s the minimum), and that’s not counting a pinch-hitter type that’s surely gonna cost at least a couple mill.
So figure you’re at $84 mill minimum, and that’s without spending any significant money on any of those last three spots I mentioned. That’s why I said they have at least $7 mill to spent and perhaps closer to about $9 mill. It’s impossible to determine any closer than that, simply because they won’t say what their payroll limit is, other than expected to be similar to last year, and you can find about 12 different totals for last year’s payroll, but good estimates are $92-95 mill.
nolie
December 24th, 2009
3:25 am
The rotation will be better, even with Vazquez gone. Wayne
I keep reading that and I don’t really buy it. Lotsa optimism there. I think there is a good chance that JJ and Hanson will not be as good as they were in 09. Not saying terrible, but not 2.8 ERAs either.
Wayne in Utah
December 24th, 2009
3:26 am
Andrew
What were you expecting that FW didn’t give you anyway???? Heck, you knew we weren’t getting Holliday or Bay. And for Gonzalez, I would rather have LaRoche and NOT give up all the prospects. Tell me, what would you have done differently??
Inquiring minds want to know…..
ccrider
December 24th, 2009
3:28 am
Dave, Hope you get great powder, you have certainly earned it this year. Just putting up with the nut cases on the ole blog would be bad enough, but you put an extraordinary amount of time(All day and All night some days), effort and friendship into your job that is unmatched by any columnist or blog writer I have ever encountered.
You give all the baseball loving lifers from Lew to McFann a lifeline to get us through the cold winter until the ground thaws and once again we can feel the warmth of the sun, the green of the grass and the sounds of of the game we all love.
I think I speak for everyone on the blog(OK, With the exception of Lentz, Herschel Talker, the Clown that calls for you to be fired-he doesn’t deserved to be named and a few others)that we have benefited more from your efforts than you have received in compensation from us and your employers combined.
We wish you a Happy Holiday(Following blog guidelines, No religion, just PC), A Great Ski trip, a Super New Year!
Oh, one last thing, don’t go getting a promotion or a new better paying job somewhere else. We are a vengeful and jealous lot on this blog, we WILL hunt you down and return you to your rightful place, kicking and screaming if necessary. You checkout, but you can never leave!
nolie
December 24th, 2009
3:28 am
Tell me, what would you have done differently?? Wayne
that’s no fair, making a guy think b4 he posts
Andrew in PA
December 24th, 2009
3:29 am
im sure those prospects we got for javy could get a nice bat
Tomahawkin
December 24th, 2009
3:30 am
Nolie
I think The League might Catch up to Hanson thanks to advance scouting. It just the matter of how he makes counter-adjustments to the leage figuring him out that is gonna make the difference in wheather he is a .500 pitcher our puts up stats like a dominating ace, which I think he has the potential to be. It’s just a matter of time…
David O'Brien
December 24th, 2009
3:31 am
MZ: Indeed, it was “The Gang Reignites the Rivalry” episode. And it was easily one of the best five ever on Always Sunny In Philly. Just line after line of hilarity.
Wayne in Utah
December 24th, 2009
3:32 am
nolie
I understand that pitchers (especially pitchers) can drop off. But, in my way of thinking, Lowe and Vazquez will probably put up similar numbers in 2010. Now that doesn’t mean that JV wouldn’t have done better in ATL. BUT, somebody had to be dealt for payroll purposes. Lowe wasn’t going anywhere, so Javy unfortunately had to be dealt.
I just think we are as well off without him as we would have been if we had dealt Lowe. The other 4 will rise or fall, as lady luck and the injury bug will allow.
nolie
December 24th, 2009
3:33 am
the difference in wheather he is a .500 pitcher our puts up stats like a dominating ace, which I think he has the potential to be. It’s just a matter of time… T Hawkin
oh I think he will be a good pitcher no doubt, just not sure he’s gonna put up another sub-3 ERA again.
Tom O'Hawke
December 24th, 2009
3:35 am
Wow, DOB, sharp as hell at 3:30 am!
nolie
December 24th, 2009
3:37 am
BUT, somebody had to be dealt for payroll purposes. Lowe wasn’t going anywhere, so Javy unfortunately had to be dealt.
I just think we are as well off without him as we would have been if we had dealt Lowe. The other 4 will rise or fall, as lady luck and the injury bug will allow. Wayne
I agree pretty much with that part. i’ve said all along that I didn’t care too much which left, though I had some preference for Javy to stay. I just don’t necessarily agree that the entire rotation is gonna have a stronger year. No way to know really, either way which is kinda my point.
I am still a bit disappointed with the Melky trade, but it’s done so we move on.
Tom O'Hawke
December 24th, 2009
3:37 am
So 7-9 million left to spend still isn’t anything to sneeze at. (ah-choo) (sorry, had to do it)
Tomahawkin
December 24th, 2009
3:39 am
CheeseWhiz D.O.B.
You must be throwing a Christmas party at your Pad…I hope you are slowing it down with some old Christmas Mariah and Boyz II Men…? but anyways thanks for your coverage all year! I get more 411 from you in a 1/2 hour than watching BSPN slobber about the Bankees! Nuff Respect!
Normally the only times I see you on here this late is A) you are really busy for GM meetings, B) out on the West Coast C) Can’t sleep…?
Wayne in Utah
December 24th, 2009
3:39 am
Andrew
You might be right about trading Vizcaino for a bat, but I would be surprised. I think they might be stock piling for having a perpetually excellent starting rotation.
Either way, the haul for Javy was not bad, considering he we had to deal a pitcher, and we were not sure to keep him after next year.
I am ok with the deal.
If we get some decent luck next season, we could get into and be successful in October. The Phillies might be better, but they could just as easily have some problems.
BravesAreDone
December 24th, 2009
3:40 am
Braves are done before the season even starts…they will have a worse record next season than they had this past season, and I’d be very willing to take large bets on that. Why trade your best pitcher from last season for a potential prospect who may or may not be good in the majors in the future….and what does any of it matter if the Braves can’t afford to keep all these young pitchers on their staff a few years from now when they are up for free agency??
slippy r
December 24th, 2009
3:40 am
To answer the question about MR FW, i love the guy. A lot of my friends on facebook put their status’s as “fire wren” or “how much worse can it get??” I feel like when thinking in baseball terms, you have to look big picture always. Frank Wren is better at doing that then he gets credit for. Not a big fan of the Melky-Vazquez trade, but i think we can’t judge that completely until the other $7-9MM gets spent. (or however much we wanna say is left)
OH YEAH: Merriweather is the best record I’ve heard in a long time, not just 2009. And their EP “Fall Be Kind” was also amazing. One of the best bands around right now for sure….
Tomahawkin
December 24th, 2009
3:41 am
I would’ve traded either Lowe, Hudson, or KK rather than Vazquez…!
Wren and the Braves got Violated by WhineBrenner and the Yanks
Gawd I hate the Yankees!
Wayne in Utah
December 24th, 2009
3:43 am
nolie
I have been on vacation since Sunday, so I might have missed something. BUT, it is my impression that the Vazquez trade netted us the big prospect, and that Melky was the second piece. If we had held out for Swisher, we probably would not have gotten Viscaino. Is that the way you see it?
Matt the Brave
December 24th, 2009
3:44 am
Thunderstiks,
I like your lineup, but if we trade McClouth and another top prospect, he’d better be batting fourth for our team.
Wayne in Utah
December 24th, 2009
3:46 am
Gawd I hate the Yankees! T’hawkin
Jeez, I’d a never guessed that in a million years!
PTBNL
December 24th, 2009
3:47 am
Nolie, I think also part of the reasoning behind the thought of the starters being better has to do with the time before Hanson came up last year. The fifth starter position was pretty weak until he came up. So… barring injury, the whole of the season could be better just because of that alone. Of course there are just too many variables to make that statement as an absolute.
Braves_Fan_RSD
December 24th, 2009
3:48 am
UPDATED
Starting Rotation
Hudson, Tim — RHP — $9,000,000.00
Kawakami, Kenshin — RHP — $6,700,000.00
Jurrjens, Jair — RHP — $500,000.00
Hanson, Tommy — RHP — $500,000.00
Lowe, Derek — RHP — $15,000,000.00
$32,660,000.00
Lineup
McLouth, Nate — CF — $5,000,000.00
Prado, Martin — 2B — $500,000.00
Jones, Chipper — 3B — $14,000,000.00
McCann, Brian — C — $5,670,000.00
Escobar, Yunel — SS — $500,000.00
Cabrera, Melky — LF — $3,000,000.00*
Glaus, Troy — 1B — 2,000,000.00**
$30,670,000.00
Bench
Ross, David — C — $1,600,000.00
Diaz, Matt — OF — $2,550,000.00
Infante, Omar — IF/OF — $2,250,000.00
$5,250,000.00
Bullpen
Wagner, Billy — LHP — $6,750,000.00
Saito, Takashi — RHP — $3,200,000.00
Jesse Chavez — RHP — $500,000.00
Moylan, Peter — RHP — $1,200,000.00*
O’Flaherty, Eric — LHP — $500,000.00
Medlen, Kris — RHP — $500,000.00
Proctor, Scott — RHP — $750,000.00
$13,400,000.00
New York Yankees
($500,000.00)
$80,980,000.00
Ok so updated is this closer to the figure you imagined DOB with 3 roster spots to fill?
Wayne in Utah
December 24th, 2009
3:48 am
Folks
Would Tejada be a decent addition, if the price were right???
nolie
December 24th, 2009
3:52 am
If we had held out for Swisher, we probably would not have gotten Viscaino. Is that the way you see it? Wayne
perhaps, maybe there never was a chance at Swisher at all. who knows? Just not a Melky fan and I have serious doubts that Dunn will ever amount to anything . Vizcaino is great, but 19 YO pitching prospects are a long gamble. I don’t have any idea if he might have done better by waiting, but if I have any criticism about his performance(and it’s a small one) it’s that he is in a bit too much of a rush at times which might lessen his dealing strength. Then again, what do I know. I haven’t been there and none of the few guys I still know work for the Braves.
Though I have tried to talk each into it.
Andrew in PA
December 24th, 2009
3:55 am
Wayne,what position is he playing?
Tom O'Hawke
December 24th, 2009
3:56 am
Wayne, Swisher’s contract calls for about 16 million for the next two years. I’m not Frank, but I’m thinking if you’re going to give up Vazquez for payroll dollars, get more than 3 million or so.
Andrew in PA
December 24th, 2009
3:57 am
I would try hard to get Cruz for prospects and try to keep melky
nolie
December 24th, 2009
3:58 am
TOM O’ right which is why I said that there might never have been a shot at him.
Wayne in Utah
December 24th, 2009
3:59 am
Andrew
Before we picked up Glaus, in my mind I had him at first. I think he would end up being a platoon guy in the infield and a bat off the bench.
It probably wouldn’t work though.
Going to bed now….later folks!!
Tom Waits wears Redwing boots
December 24th, 2009
3:59 am
DOB-
Thanx for the music list. I now know what to buy. Merry Christmas.
The Bird and Indian
December 24th, 2009
4:00 am
Paul: More than 1 IP Address? You sure are a dedicated blogger. If you run out, I’m sure Bowman will welcome you to his great community of bloggers. I hear JJ4NLCY hangs out there, y’all should have fun.
Tomahawkin
December 24th, 2009
4:02 am
Wayne In Ut
“Gawd I hate The Yankees!”
It Speaks volumes that at my job in Suwanee there are More Bandwagon Yankees fan than there are die-hard braves fans!
JASon
December 24th, 2009
4:03 am
“My heart is like a mason’s
hands of weathered skin
Each scar makes it harder
for me to hurt again.”
-from “Pretty Girl From Chile” by
The Avett Brothers
Tom O'Hawke
December 24th, 2009
4:03 am
TOM O’, uh, nolie, uh, was that you yellin’ at me or just speaking in a tone slightly above normal?
Tom Waits wears Redwing boots
December 24th, 2009
4:06 am
I think Wren has done a remarkable job. He has rebuilt the minor league pipeline while putting a very competitive team together for 2010 with a series of 1 year contracts to veteran players with proven track records. He has kept a keen eye on the future of the organization.
Tom O'Hawke
December 24th, 2009
4:07 am
Braves_Fan_RSD , man, that’s gotta be pretty damn close. Is there a way to know the incentives? The club must make allowances for those, don’t you think?
The Bird and Indian
December 24th, 2009
4:08 am
Good night, folks. Hopefully I don’t wake up to more news that makes me cringe a little.
Tom Waits wears Redwing boots
December 24th, 2009
4:13 am
The Braves will have some serious swagger in 2010. We will have two 6′5″, 240 lb. mashers at the corner infield spots.
Tom Waits wears Redwing boots
December 24th, 2009
4:15 am
The Phillies have been squatters for 3 years. Now it’s time for the true owners of the NL East to return home.
Tom O'Hawke
December 24th, 2009
4:18 am
The Bird and Indian , Good night, right back at you. Unless they cancel Christmas, I think you’re safe from any Braves’ bad news, for now.
Tom O'Hawke
December 24th, 2009
4:33 am
Tom Waits wears Redwing boots , I agree with your 4:06 about Frank Wren. He seems to be an excellent GM. I would love to know what goes on behind the scenes, also. If we knew that, I believe most fans would have a greater appreciation of their GM. And quite possibly, a greater hatrid of their owner.
nolie
December 24th, 2009
4:42 am
TOM O’, uh, nolie, uh, was that you yellin’ at me or just speaking in a tone slightly above normal? TOM O
that was making your name stand out the lazy way
BravesAC
December 24th, 2009
4:45 am
DOB – Great to see Roseanne Cash’s The List so high on your list. I heard it on NPR and her rendition of Patsy Cline’s “I’ve got your picture, she’s got you” was wonderful. That’s one CD I’ll buy. M. Ward’s a new found favorite as well.
Still trying to get the Leonard Cohen thing though…
Braves_Fan_RSD
December 24th, 2009
4:46 am
Braves_Fan_RSD , man, that’s gotta be pretty damn close. Is there a way to know the incentives? The club must make allowances for those, don’t you think?
We will only know that after he signs but my guess is he will make no more than 5M this season.
Bravo Nam
December 24th, 2009
4:47 am
DOB et al
Merry Christmas from Phnom Penh! Been a big couple of days… that Vazquez trade was a shock, although I can see why it was made… the Braves are definitely going to miss him, and I think given his level of comfort with the Braves and support from Cox, he would’ve put in another big season… one’s gotta wonder what Lowe privately is thinking about all of this and how it will affect his attitude and general play with the Braves.
Tom O'Hawke
December 24th, 2009
5:07 am
nolie, “that was making your name stand out the lazy way”, shoot, I knew that.
Braves_Fan_RSD, no man, not just Glaus, I was talking about the entire team. I’m thinking that there are probably a lot of incentives among the regulars. Maybe not, what the hell do I know?
Bravo Nam, Merry Christmas or Giáng sinh Vui vẻ, to you too.
HomeofdaBraves
December 24th, 2009
5:18 am
“The Phillies have been squatters for 3 years. Now it’s for the true owners of the NL East to return home”
You mean the Mets? Seriously, I know there’s a lot of optimism around here, but I just can’t buy it. WAY too many things are going to have to go right for the Braves to seriously compete with the Phillies next season. This is about as bad as going into last season placing your hopes on Jeff Francouer and Kelly Johnson having monster years.
I’d give the Marlins a better chance at dethroning the Phillies than the Braves.
Billy (TBFKB)
December 24th, 2009
5:20 am
Wren has done well in my book. Glaus is a helluva pickup for 2 million. This is going to be a huge bargian. Still not sold on the JV trade but Wren’s track record allows me to trust his shrewd ability to trade for talent. AL was never going to accept a one year offer much less for the amount we wanted him back as. While not a great off season as far as big names go, I think were much stronger this year than last and that’s all you ask for.
hal
December 24th, 2009
5:21 am
Dave if your going to bc sking take it from a crazy canuck(me) banfss awsome but pricey and skings just as good at fernie (HOME OF JASON BAY SO GOOD LUCK ID SAY BREAK A LEG BUT NOT APPROPO BEFORE SKING LOL MERRY CHRISTMAS ALL AND TOO ALL A GOOD NIGHT AND GO BRAVES!!!
Billy (TBFKB)
December 24th, 2009
5:28 am
HomeofdaBraves,
Who do you think has the potential to have a better year for us T. Glaus or C. Kotchmen?
Who do you think has the potential to have a better year for us M. Prado or K. Johnson?
Who do you think has the potential to have a better year for us J. Francour or combo of M.Diaz/Cabrera/Heyward?
Who do you think has the better chance to repeat their 09 season D. Lowe or JV?
Who do you think has the better chance to improve on their 09 season D. Lowe or JV?
Our team is way better than it was last year.
Tom Waits wears Redwing boots
December 24th, 2009
5:31 am
Home/Braves-
Quite a difference in Cabrera/Glaus, rebuilt bullpen, same if not better SP with Hanson for all 162, proven closer and previous closer than the 2 headcases in TB and Baltimore, stronger pen where Moylan can be used at anytime now to get the DP ball – Much better team than the 2009 version. When the Braves wanted 500,000 from Yanks as well as their 3rd best prospect, that’s dubious. So, when Wren gives that 1/2 mill to bring in Nady or DeRo, How then will you compare these hopes to those of Frenchy/Johnson?
Tom Waits wears Redwing boots
December 24th, 2009
5:33 am
Well said Billy
Tom Waits wears Redwing boots
December 24th, 2009
5:38 am
Home/Braves
2009 season split w/Phillies 10-8
Seems like they competed pretty well against them last year.
Tom O'Hawke
December 24th, 2009
5:50 am
““The Phillies have been squatters for 3 years. Now it’s for the true owners of the NL East to return home” —- Tom Waits wears Redwing boots
You mean the Mets? Seriously, I know there’s a lot of optimism around here, but I just can’t buy it — HomeofdaBraves
Geez, dude, and right before Christmas …. what a scrooge! You remind me of my bad uncle, that told me there was no Santa Claus or Easter Bunny. Most teenagers have fond memories of turning 16, but how can I?
Braves_Fan_RSD
December 24th, 2009
5:53 am
Tom O’Hawke:
For the 2010 Season here are the incentives:
Kenshin Kawakami – $25,000 for LCS MVP; $50,000 each for Gold Glove, WS MVP, Rolaids award, All Star; $0.1M for Cy Young
So by winning them all he could add another 325K
Takashi Saito – $0.5M based on appearances $1.8M based on games finished
David Ross – up to $0.3M based on games played
There you go so could be another possible 3.05M could go toward incentives
Braves_Fan_RSD
December 24th, 2009
6:01 am
excuse me 2.925M is possible
NV049
December 24th, 2009
6:05 am
Merry Christmas to ALL .. DOB hope you enjoy your Vacation and Thanks very much for the Excellent Braves Blog…
JTH
December 24th, 2009
6:24 am
Fire Liberty Media.
I hate Christmas.
Tom O'Hawke
December 24th, 2009
6:33 am
Braves_Fan_RSD , man oh man, you’re on the ball! I may fire my accountant and hire you. Good work! OK, another possible 3+ million, if all the incentives come to fruition. I’m wondering how the FO figures that in advance? They may average in half, let’s say 2/3. So if we add 2 million to your previous total of 81 million, for 22 roster spots, that brings us to 83 million. DOB said last year was between 92-95 million, yes? If the Braves are going to stay at least equal to last year, and the other 3 roster spots are with minimum wage, there’s still a pretty good amount of wiggle room.
Obee
December 24th, 2009
6:34 am
when I saw that photo, what instantly came to mind is that famous mug shot of Nick Nolte
Braves_Fan_RSD
December 24th, 2009
6:40 am
Braves_Fan_RSD , man oh man, you’re on the ball! I may fire my accountant and hire you. Good work! OK, another possible 3+ million, if all the incentives come to fruition. I’m wondering how the FO figures that in advance? They may average in half, let’s say 2/3. So if we add 2 million to your previous total of 81 million, for 22 roster spots, that brings us to 83 million. DOB said last year was between 92-95 million, yes? If the Braves are going to stay at least equal to last year, and the other 3 roster spots are with minimum wage, there’s still a pretty good amount of wiggle room.
Lol don’t tease me with a job
Currently a stats tutor for Kennesaw State University and own my own business doing PC Repair lol.
Looking at all the incentives only David Ross and Saito’s games played seem realistic. So Im sure they are counting on about 800K – 1M to actually be obtained. The only way Saito gets the big incentive is if Wagner gets hurt early on in the season and cannot return.
Tom O'Hawke
December 24th, 2009
6:45 am
Braves_Fan_RSD
That “wiggle room” is based on a full roster. However, if the Braves were to make a trade which included a player or players from their 25, then you would have to subtract their salary, from your total, and add it to what they can spend. Depending on the traded Braves’ players, that could increase it by quite a bit. Am I making any sense? Are you following me? If so, then explain it back to me, please. If not, I’ll just ask my math-friend, Jim, later on.
semiballcoach
December 24th, 2009
6:45 am
Enter your comments here
Tom O'Hawke
December 24th, 2009
6:49 am
Braves_Fan_RSD
I had a strong feeling that you weren’t shoveling gravel for a living.
NCBravesFan
December 24th, 2009
6:50 am
It could be that the Braves will try and come in a bit under payroll so they have some flexibility heading into the summer. If any of the older players hits an extended injury, if Glaus hits all his incentives, or the Braves want to go out and make a mid-season trade to prep for the stretch drive, a few extra $$ could come in handy.
Braves_Fan_RSD
December 24th, 2009
6:50 am
I understand exactly what you are saying Tom you just took the scenic route to get there lol:P
bob
December 24th, 2009
6:51 am
What have the Braves got in the minors at 3B? Chipper was hinting at retirement if his play isn’t up to
his standards. Glaus can play 3B when he’s out, but I’m worried about the long term at 3B.
semiballcoach
December 24th, 2009
6:53 am
wren has done a good job working with constraints….had to have pitching last year so he overpaid lowe and kawakami, just to get some innings….trade for vazquez was panned last year and now people act like he was javy maddux….glaus will deepen the line up, with mccann and esco hitting behind him, there will be times that diaz will be the 8 hitter….
maybe he mistreats icons, but i trust the decisions he and the scouting dept have made
Braves_Fan_RSD
December 24th, 2009
6:57 am
Tom O’ Hawke
right now 7M sounds about right on what we can spend but say we trade a Melky we would add more payroll space:
Team budget (y)
Used (x)
Player Traded (a)
Player Recieved (b)
Money avaliable (P)
so
P = (y – x – a) +b
lol there explained to ya!