Braves hope to have Glavine back in fold
The old band isn't getting back together now, but maybe in the Hall of Fame
With Greg Maddux having already signed on to begin his front-office career with the Chicago Cubs, the Braves surely wouldn’t want Tom Glavine to start his post-playing baseball career with any team other than Atlanta.
There might be no reason to worry. Glavine has talked with Braves prez John Schuerholz about a job with the Braves that could include a variety of duties ranging from front-office work to helping out with young players at spring training and in the minor leagues, and possibly even some broadcasting.
Glavine coached his son's Atlanta Fire hockey team in Ottawa, Canada two weeks ago.
“We’re working on putting together what options might be available,” Schuerholz said. “Tommy and I have talked about this very preliminarily.”
The point is, they’ve talked. In other words, when the Braves called, Glavine didn’t just say, “Are you kidding me? After the way I was treated last summer?” and hang up the phone.
Seven months after he was unceremoniously released — at the end of a minor-league rehab stint and before he would’ve received a $1 million bonus for being added to the Braves roster –- Glavine is apparently willing to turn the page, rather than turn his back on 17 mostly terrific seasons with the Braves.
And whatever you all might have felt about his last stint with the Braves — whether you thought they never should’ve signed him, or they should have cut him in spring training, or he should’ve gotten a chance to prove himself in the majors, or whatever you thought — most of us can probably agree that Glavine being on good terms with the Braves, whether instructing young players or working as a front-office employee, broadcaster or goodwill ambassador, is preferable to Glavine and the Braves severing ties. Can’t we?
(I asked Joe Simpson today about possibly working with Glavine for some games, and he said, “if that were to happen, I would love it.”)
Who knows, Glavine might help talk John Smoltz into coming back to the Braves family once Smoltz is done pitching in 2020 or so. Since both Glavine and Smoltz live in the Atlanta ‘burbs, it’d be kind of silly for the team not to do everything possible to make sure both feel good about associating with t he team.
I mean, if Glavine and Smoltz are going to the Hall of Fame as Braves, you’d want them to speak (and think) as highly as possible about the organization when inducted, right? (There doesn’t seem much question anymore that Smoltz is going to be elected someday to the Hall of Fame. Obviously, Glavine will be elected.)
♣ Speaking of Glavine and Maddux: As soon as Glavine announces he’s retired from pitching, he and pal Maddux could be on a four-year countdown to a fitting coda to their careers: first-ballot election to the Baseball Hall of Fame.
The question could then become, will both be depicted wearing Braves caps on their Cooperstown plaques? Might Maddux instead wear a cap of the Cubs, who last week hired “Mad Dog” as a special assistant to their GM?
Maddux, who had 355 wins –- eighth all-time — before retiring after the 2008 season, began his major league career with the Cubs and rejoined them in 2004 after the Braves let him go as a too-expensive-for-them free agent.
He was inducted into the Braves’ and Cubs’ Halls of Fame last season, and expresses great fondness for both organizations.
Rookie card, porn 'stache
Some of you worry that his return to the Cubs in 2004, coupled with his new job with them, means Maddux will choose Cubs over Braves at Cooperstown.
Here are a couple of points that might lessen those concerns:
• The Hall of Fame no longer leaves it up to players to decide which team they’ll represent. For players who’ve played for multiple teams, the Hall picks the cap it deems appropriate, though it does consult with the player.
“At the end of the day you want the logo to represent where this guy made his greatest impact,” Hall of Fame president Jeff Idelson said at a recent news conference after Andre Dawson was elected to the Hall of Fame.
Dude on the Rug
• Maddux’s case, at least statistically speaking, seems a no-brainer. He accomplished far more with the Braves. (Of course, the Hall and Maddux might view “impact” to mean more than just statistics. But that’d really be a reach to suggest he had an impact with the Cubs as great as he had with the Braves.)
After winning the first of his four Cy Young Awards with a 20-win season with the Cubs in 1992, Maddux went to the Braves as a free agent and produced one of the dominant stretches of pitching in the modern era.
(I remember covering the Marlins in the mid-90s when hitters would ask us writers which Braves pitchers they were going to face in an upcoming series with Atlanta. If you said Maddux’s name, sometimes they would just cringe.)
(I should add, the only guy I personally saw have a season as dominant as the ones that Maddux produced for the Brave was Kevin Brown in 1996 with the Marlins, when the menacing Brown went 17-11 with a league-best 1.89 ERA, a league-high 16 batters hit by pitches, and a Maddux-ian 0.944 WHIP. God, Brown was nasty.)
Maddux pitched more seasons with the Braves (11) than the Cubs (10), and won 194 games for the Braves, compared to 133 with the Cubs. Three of his four Cy Young Awards came with the Braves, and his only World Series title.
He’s gotta go to the Hall with a Braves cap, doesn’t he?
Loading ...With Glavine, there’s no question which cap he will wear, despite that five-year late-career stint with the New York Mets. The great lefty recorded 244 of his 305 wins with the Braves.
Glavine won both his Cy Young Awards with the Braves, and was 2-0 with a 1.29 in the 1995 World Series win against Cleveland, including a for-the-ages performance — one hit, eight scoreless innings — in the Game 6 clincher.
When does he get elected? Well, he’s not retired, but he didn’t pitch in the majors in 2009. So provided he doesn’t pitch again –- and he’s not preparing to — Glavine would be eligible for election the same year as Maddux. Nice, huh?
While he’s not the mortal lock that Maddux is for first-ballot selection, Glavine’s 305 wins portends a likely first-ballot election.
After Glavine was dropped by the Braves last June, he was furious at how the matter was handled. He said the Braves knew on a Tuesday afternoon that they were going to release him, but “still paraded me out in Rome to a sold-out crowd” for an A-ball start that night.
That game, as it turns out, was probably the last of his professional career. Though Glavine said after his release that he thought he could still pitch, he didn’t get signed by any other team.
A couple of days after Glavine was released by general manager Frank Wren and the Braves — plenty of fans expressed disappointment in those two days over how the franchise icon was treated — Schuerholz was the one who met with reporters in the Braves dugout and issued a public apology to Glavine.
“I want to offer an apology to Tommy,” Schuerholz said that hot afternoon in the dugout. “We made our decision, but the way — the environment and the tone and manner — the end of it didn’t feel comfortable to me.
“I tossed and turned pretty much all night long after we finished our meeting with Tommy, thinking about, here’s this guy who has meant so much to our franchise, to the game of baseball. Hall of Famer. Represented our city in grand fashion. And the meeting ended in a way that didn’t make me feel good….
“It just doesn’t feel right for a guy of his his stature, his quality, and that’s what I wanted to say.”
Seven months later, Schuerholz could be on the verge of hiring Glavine in a different capacity entirely.
“I’ve talked to Tommy several times since the season ended,” said Schuerholz, who said talks were still in the preliminary stage. “It’s always been in our mind that ultimately, eventually something like this might be a possibility.
“We’ve discussed it with Tommy. I’ve talked to [Glavine's agent] Gregg Clifton. We’re in the exploratory-discussion phase, but the interest has always been there…. The admiration and appreciation is understood.”
Damon available, Tigers uninterested: So I saw this note on the MLBTR site this afternoon: “2:07pm: Tigers GM Dave Dombrowski told Beck through a team spokesperson that the Tigers have not expressed interest in Damon.”
And I immediately thought:
Pulling out jives and jamboree handouts
Beck
Two turntables and a microphone
Bottles and cans and just clap your hands and just clap your hands
Where it’s at
I got two turntables and a microphone…
No, no. Just kidding. What I thought was, here’s a textbook example of a certain agent you might be familiar with coming up with a team supposedly interested in his client to light a fire under another team that has some interest but not nearly as much as said agent deems suitable for said client.
Or something like that.
Heads are hanging from the garbage man trees
Mouthwash jukebox gasoline
pistols are pointing
at a poor man’s pockets
Smiling eyes ripping out of his sockets
Got a devil’s haircut in my mind…
For the record, Scott Boras doesn’t have a devil’s haircut. An expensive haircut, perhaps, but not a devil’s haircut.
Boras
OK, let’s move on from Beck references, since we probably lost a portion of our audience by using two lyric tidbits from an eccentric hipster rocker/hip-hopper. (The Beck referred to in the MLBTR note was mlb.com writer Jason Beck, but that particular note only had his last name.)
Anyway, where were we?
Oh, yes. Johnny Damon. It’s unclear what level of interest either the Braves or Yankees have in the veteran outfielder, but neither has done what Tigers GM Dombrowski did: Neither has come out and said they’re not interested.
And that’s enough for Boras to work with right there, isn’t it?
Since most are now figuring Damon’s price tag might be dropping to an affordable $5-7 mill for 2010, we should be hearing any day now that Damon has signed a two-year, $18 million deal with some team, right? At least that’s how these Boras negotiations usually go.
But in this case, I don’t think so. I believe the market just isn’t there for Boras to work his magic in this one. Damon will have a job, probably with the Yankees but perhaps with the Braves or another heretofore unknown suitor, but he’ll be lucky to make half of the $13 million he made in 2009 in the final year of a four-year, $52 million contract with the Yankees.
Can he help the Braves? Absolutely. They could put him in left field and trade Melky Cabrera or – I’d really hate to see this – Matt Diaz and only add a couple mill or so to the payroll. You go Nate McLouth in center, and in right field either Jason Heyward or, if he’s not ready, then Diaz or Cabrera to start the season.
Damon leads off, McLouth either second or drops down to boost the bottom half of the order, and you’ve got an improved lineup with another veteran who’s been a key part of winning teams and is known as a great teammate.
If not Damon, then the Braves, if you ask me, still need to add a proven hitter with some pop, either now or during spring training. Because as good as this lineup could be if Troy Glaus stays healthy and Chipper Jones rebounds and McLouth is closer to 2008 McLouth than 2009 McLouth, those sure seem like too many question marks going into Bobby Cox’s final season.
But if payroll’s really as tight as they say it is, and a few more million bucks is going to put them over the top of their self-imposed threshold, then, hey, it’s a team with a pitching staff that’s probably good enough to carry it as long as they stay reasonably healthy up and down the batting order.
And as long as a couple of key bullpen guys stay healthy.
It’s never simple anymore, is it?
“THIS IS THE SEA” by Mike Scott (The Waterboys)
These things you keep
You’d better throw them away
You wanna turn your back
On your soulless days
Once you were tethered
And now you are free
Once you were tethered
Well now you are free
That was the river
This is the sea!
♦
Now if you’re feelin’ weary
If you’ve been alone too long
Maybe you’ve been suffering from
A few too many
Plans that have gone wrong
And you’re trying to remember
How fine your life used to be
Running around banging your drum
Like it’s 1973
Well that was the river
This is the sea
Wooo!
♦
Now you say you’ve got trouble
You say you’ve got pain
You say you’ve got nothing left to believe in
Nothing to hold on to
Nothing to trust
Nothing but chains
You’re scouring your conscience
Raking through your memories
Scouring your conscience
Raking through your memories
But that was the river
This is the sea yeah!
♦
Now I can see you wavering
As you try to decide
You’ve got a war in your head
And it’s tearing you up inside
You’re trying to make sense
Of something that you just can’t see
Trying to make sense now
And you know you once held the key
But that was the river
And this is the sea
Yeah yeah yeah yeah yeah yeah yeah!
♦
Now I hear there’s a train
It’s coming on down the line
It’s yours if you hurry
You’ve got still enough time
And you don’t need no ticket
And you don’t pay no fee
No you don’t need no ticket
You don’t pay no fee
Because that was the river
And this is the sea!
♦
Behold the sea
4,693 comments Add your comment
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 15th, 2010
7:06 pm
First!
Tomahawkin
January 15th, 2010
7:08 pm
Is In The House!!! What’s Up to all!
Bravesguy101
January 15th, 2010
7:08 pm
Second. Like this Peanut Butter jar.
Towlie
January 15th, 2010
7:09 pm
Don’t forget to bring a towel!
Burdell
January 15th, 2010
7:11 pm
That should be enough to continue the DOB-Bowman SuperBrawl 2010.
As for Smoltz – they’ve got to get that guy in a broadcast booth. Hilarious.
TnBrian
January 15th, 2010
7:11 pm
Love the blog, DOB. I wrote a few minutes ago how I hope Glavine stays with us in some way, etc. To know how I feel you go back and read it on the last blog, if not, I don’t blame you.
I agree with you Dave, Braves could use another decent bat in that lineup and maybe Nady is still the best option. Who knows ….
David O'Brien
January 15th, 2010
7:11 pm
Just added a poll to the blog, about which pitchers get in Hall of Fame and which on first ballot.
Tomahawkin
January 15th, 2010
7:11 pm
I’d Love to Have Glavine Back! My Narrow carcus would get starstruck if I was a 20-something pitcher who watched Glavine for so many years growing up…I’d probably see his aura like “Rick James in the Chappelle’s show skit”
D.O.B. Those Throwback Pictures Rule!!! Brings back memories!
You must collect baseball cards, since you post them on your blogs, which is cool, since I collected from 1989-2002
Tomahawkin
January 15th, 2010
7:12 pm
From The Last Blog
Nolie
Ur Quote
Nolie
“Melky’s numbers did improve this year and he is only 24 with three years under his belt. Billy Walsh
his numbers improved because he moved into a better hitters park, how hard is that to understand?”
Perfectly Put
With our Ballpark dimensions Milky will be lucky to hit 10 homers this season
Wayne in Utah
January 15th, 2010
7:13 pm
A point or two about HR’s versus doubles. Everybody digs the long ball! No doubt. Sometimes a double actually extends an inning when a team is building up some momentum.
Two runners on, a HR gets you 3 runs. It also takes a bit of pressure off the pitcher, with no runners on base. But, a double probably gets you two runs, and gives your next hitter a chance to keep the rally going. Also puts additional pressure on the pitcher.
Now, uncle nolie is probably going to point out how I have it all wrong…..
woogidy
January 15th, 2010
7:18 pm
haven’t posted in a while, but still read it. DOB, What are the chances Maddux gets in unanimous? To do what he did in the era he pitched in, he has to be close.
ncgary
January 15th, 2010
7:18 pm
the seas for me
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 15th, 2010
7:18 pm
Thanks for the new blog DOB,
I’ve never been first.
ncgary
January 15th, 2010
7:20 pm
if smoltz is on the poll, i guess it would all come down to if he gets caught in tigers lair.
Jake the Snake
January 15th, 2010
7:20 pm
The Official Skip Caray T-Shirt…online now.
http://www.skipshirt.com
jed
January 15th, 2010
7:22 pm
hey hey! waterboys! i’d have gone with ‘fisherman’s blues’ but good to see them anyway…
Eric from MO
January 15th, 2010
7:22 pm
I was a little torn on if Smoltz would get elected 1st ballot. Hard considering not knowing who he is up against. But he has gone down as argueably the greatest postseason pitcher ever, great closer, great starter, Cy Young winnner, 5 WS appearances, WS ring and only guy on the greatest decade and a half regular season dynasty. Hard to imagine him not getting in 1st time.
Plus another thing all three have going for them is no link to ‘roids. Too bad our players didnt cheat a little, we may of won more WS titles. Worked for the Yankees. Just kidding…sorta…
nolie
January 15th, 2010
7:22 pm
Granted, I’ll admit I’d prefer him over Melky for 4th OF Redstick
he can’t be a 4th OFer, he can’t play CF at all and he stinks at the other 2 positions. anyway the guy is likely toast.his bat speed was so slow last year that one day a bird landed on it the middle of a swing
David O'Brien
January 15th, 2010
7:22 pm
Moylan and 127 others filed for arbitration today. Means nothing, really. Team will keep negotiating with him and likely settle before a hearing, like just about everyone does.
nolie
January 15th, 2010
7:24 pm
Wayne
lotsa folks feel the same way you do, certainly McFann does, but I’ll take the guaranteed extra run with the homer. afterall it is Bobby’s three run homer offense.
Wayne in Utah
January 15th, 2010
7:24 pm
Maddux first ballot. Smoltz and Glavine, maybe.
Eric from MO
January 15th, 2010
7:24 pm
*meant only player on the entire greatest decade and half regular season dynasty
Alan
January 15th, 2010
7:25 pm
DOB, it’s good to see the Braves and Glavine are talking, but I find it interesting that it’s Schuerholz, and not Wren, doing the talking for the Braves. And, of course, it was Schuerholz who apologized last summer. I’m thinking things aren’t exactly hunky-dory between Glavine and Wren, and probably never will be. The Damon situation is intriguing, but I don’t see his price tag dropping enough to fit the Braves’ payroll. Plus, as much as I’d love to see him at the top of the order, his defense — particularly his arm — would be a liability. When all is said and done, I believe he’ll be back with the Yankees this season.
keylargo
January 15th, 2010
7:25 pm
Wren should’ve let Hudson go to begin with. If that had happened we;d have Dye or Damon right now instead of Milky Cabrera, and Hickey….
Let’s see – Hudson (Next years Ace @$9Mil) + Melky + Hickey or Jermaine Dye or Johnny Damon?
Dang that Wren is shrewd!
Redstick19
January 15th, 2010
7:26 pm
his bat speed was so slow last year that one day a bird landed on it the middle of a swing
Shucks, then forget about Dye because that’s one talented bird… sign him instead!
Tomahawkin
January 15th, 2010
7:27 pm
From The Last Blog
Bay Area Steve
“Tomahawkin”
“If there’s ever been better proof that you need to stick to R. Kelly, I can’t imagine it. You’re calling 6-7 million dollars for Dye below-market?”
Yeah I called Dye Signing for 6-7 mill below Mkt value for the fact that he has hit his whole career despite his slump in the 2nd half last year. Dye was looking at getting broke off at about 9-10 mill this offseason just like LaRoche…
Wayne in Utah
January 15th, 2010
7:27 pm
nolie
A bird in the hand….makes sense.
Burdell
January 15th, 2010
7:30 pm
I don’t think anyone will ever get in on a unanimous vote. I mean, 9 people voted against Babe Ruth.
David O'Brien
January 15th, 2010
7:30 pm
woogidy: Maddux should be unanimous, but some genius will refuse to vote for him simiply because no one else has been unanimous. You watch. It’ll happen. This is the time when I wish Hall of Fame ballots were made public, so the person or persons who doesn’t vote Maddux on first ballot would have to defend the action.
Chuck James was Solid Until the 6th!!!
January 15th, 2010
7:30 pm
Wayne
I agree with your post and for the people saying Melky might hit 10 HR’s IF he is on the roster OD, then that just mean he’ll be hitting more doubles too. And you can’t deny from last years performances that the man is clutch and also take in consideration he did it on the biggest stage on the planet. And oh yeh, he’s only 25 years old!!! AND his defense is A+! Give the guy a chance to come over and prove himself some guys don’t reach their potential until around 27-28 and I think he is on the verge of proving he can do bigger things then he already has. Just my opinion….
However, not just because of the rumors, just because of the lack of interest and Johnny’s more than willingness to play in ATL, I think too if they can move Melky to say the Padres a team that can control him for a few more years for a prospect then they could easily come up with the 5-6 million to sign Johnny. I think having Damon would really solidify this club as a whole. Everybody on the 25 man roster is consistent and reliable already but with Damon you add another proven winner and leader to go with Chipper.
Eric from MO
January 15th, 2010
7:31 pm
Wayne Glavine was one of the 3 best pitchers of his generation (Maddux, Clemons(cheater), Glavine), a top 5 lefty ever, 300 games winner, multi-Cy Young winner, 5 WS apperances, WS title, with no link to steroids and you dont think he is a sure thing for HOF. I think people also severally underestimate the point that no link to steroids, which is huge. Question, this is for anyone, Im curious, how many 300 game winners havent been elected 1st time and who are they?
As for Smoltz, its hard to say because nobody’s career is really like his. Closest is Eckersly, but I think Smoltz’s career is even better because he became a starter again after closing.
Burdell
January 15th, 2010
7:31 pm
Actually.. it was 11. I just looked it up. It looks like Ty Cobb got the closest in actual numbers (only 4 votes against). Seaver got the closest on percent (just under 99%).
jeffrey d
January 15th, 2010
7:32 pm
That picture looks like Smoltz is walking with his two sons
Chuck James was Solid Until the 6th!!!
January 15th, 2010
7:35 pm
DOB
If he isn’t first ballot that is a JOKE!!!! I agree with you, the idiot(s) who just want to be cool and do it for no sane reasoning should be called out and have to explain themselves…. It would be PATHETIC if he didn’t get in on the 1rst ballot. But like you said %98 chance he won’t because of those couple of fools who want to have their little stupid personal part in history to share with close friends like, “I was the guy who didn’t vote Maddux, so I’M the reason he didn’t become the 1rst unanimous in!!!!” Thinking it’s “cool” or something… Some people are just plain idiots, that will never change.
Eric from MO
January 15th, 2010
7:35 pm
Alan I would say your probably right about Glavine and Wren, but I really cant blame Wren. In Wren’s eyes he made the team better,which he did, with choosing Hanson over Glavine. He was not friends with Glav, he did not owe him anything. Wren is trying to make his own dynasty and Glavine would of never been a part of it as a player.
As for JS on the other hand, was probably pretty good friends with Glavine, felt he owed him better than that, and had Glavine as part of his dynasty. Glavine was one of his “guys.”
You are probably right and I really cant blame any of them.
La Jolla Dawg
January 15th, 2010
7:36 pm
Hey David! If you ever make it to La Jolla (remember you have to try fish tacos from Wahoos) I’ll have to tell you my Mike Scott story, it is a very good one. This is the Sea is an album I would have to have with me on the deserted island. Great choice.
I hope Glavine does work with the Braves would be nice to have him back in the fold.
Wayne in Utah
January 15th, 2010
7:37 pm
Eric
Yes, I think he is HOF material. No doubt. I just said I wasn’t sure he would be a first ballot inductee. A lot depends on who else is on the ballot. Some voters are strange about voting too many guys per ballot.
MitchC
January 15th, 2010
7:39 pm
Dave, it would be nice the see Glavine work out a post baseball position with the Braves. After spending 17 years here, he shouldn’t work for anyone else. I also find it interesting that the Braves accounced this, around the same time that it was announced that Greg Maddux has taken a front office job with the Cubs.
Glavine should be a lock to get in the Hall on the first ballot. 305 wins, 2 Cy’s, World Series MVP, What else do the writers need to see? I’ll admit I was furious when he left the Braves to go to the Mets, but, that’s all in the past now. One day it will be a thrill to look in Cooperstown, and think that three of their members, once pitched back to back to back in the same rotation for the Braves.
David O'Brien
January 15th, 2010
7:39 pm
Chuck James: You misread. There’s no doubt Maddux will get in on first ballot. The question was whether he’d be unanimous. There have been no unanimous selections. Ever. But he should be (and probably won’t, for the reason I stated).
ncgary
January 15th, 2010
7:41 pm
old coronado sailor, just like in the song …, them was the dayz
Eric from MO
January 15th, 2010
7:41 pm
DOB I think every fan in baseball,not just Braves’ fans, would agree with your 7:30 post. I think the votes should be public and if you vote against someone you should be able to explain why. If your reason has nothing to do with baseball or its because everybody else was voting for him then you should automatically lose your voting privilage.
joerochester
January 15th, 2010
7:44 pm
I think Smoltz will be a first ballot HOF, too. But I think Glavine will be on the 2nd.
Redstick19
January 15th, 2010
7:45 pm
If your reason has nothing to do with baseball or its because everybody else was voting for him then you should automatically lose your voting privilage.
Well, then there’d be very few – if any- voters. Everyone makes it personal once in a while. Human nature, my man. Example: Alomar not making because of spitting incident. You can’t tell me they turned him away becuase his numbers weren’t good enough.
Wayne in Utah
January 15th, 2010
7:45 pm
Unanimous or not, really doesn’t matter. He’s still in first ballot.
Gotta run. Time to go home!
nolie
January 15th, 2010
7:47 pm
I’m guessing there will be more than one who won’t vote for him. nobody has ever hit 99% though 10 or so have made 98%. If there are 300 voters 99% would mean 3 didn’t vote for him.
I gotta say that I think there have been guys more deserving that Greg who weren’t unanimous
Wayne in Utah
January 15th, 2010
7:49 pm
One final thought. It would have been cool if all 3 had hung ‘em up together. I think the voters would have put them all in together.
Way cool.
nolie
January 15th, 2010
7:50 pm
Wayne Glavine was one of the 3 best pitchers of his generation (Maddux, Clemons(cheater), Glavine), a top 5 lefty ever, Eric
I’p put Johnson over him without doubt. ma
Tomahawkin
January 15th, 2010
7:51 pm
From The Last Blog
TnBrian
If you are still on then much props in the philly.com post you did a few days ago
I see that I got someone on the Philliy.com. I use the same name as I here here on the Phillies forum getting 411 about the Phillies and how we stack up against them…
Time to bump some old Mobb Deep “Survival of the Fittest”
lexbrave
January 15th, 2010
7:53 pm
dave, surely you know that the players dont decide which cap they are imortalized in in cooperstown. the hall decides that. so it doesnt matter which team maddux prefers.
Eric from MO
January 15th, 2010
7:54 pm
Redstick if you started doing that then voters would straighten up. That is my whole point on taking it away. Being allowed to vote for that is a privilage and should be handled as such.
Topher24
January 15th, 2010
7:55 pm
So, DOB, what’s the deal with Bowman saying the Braves are unlikely to sign Damon whereas you continue to stoke the hot stove fires of hope in us poor wretch die hard fans??? Different sources say different things, I suppose? Or is it just hope for a better tomorrow?
Eric from MO
January 15th, 2010
7:55 pm
Nolie I agree. I thought of him right after I posted that. However, considering Clemons is a cheater, I would still put him in the top 3. However, agreed RJ was better.
James C R
January 15th, 2010
7:56 pm
From a seasoned executive( pompous egotistical fool)
TOM GLAVINE
Just accept whatever Glavine wants. Tell him you love him. Plan a wonderful future for Glavine and the Braves, get out of his way and cheer his results.
Atlanta loves Tom Glavine……
We all need hero’s
Cherish him, appreciate him, and encourage him.
On the side : When the Braves meet the Yankees in the 2010 World Series, wouldn’t it be nice to have Glavine available to win it for the HOME team.
Why not a storybook ending?
Glavine Our Hero,
Forever James
Eric from MO
January 15th, 2010
7:57 pm
Nolie there may have been a couple more deserving of unanimous, but do two wrongs make a right?
Summer of 91
January 15th, 2010
7:58 pm
Get Damon and dump Melke, we can’t roll w/ 2/3rds the Yankee OF, I’d take Matty baseball over Melky any day.
joerochester
January 15th, 2010
7:59 pm
You think Piazza will make it on the first ballot? He should. He’s one of the greatest offensive catchers of all time.
Summer of 91
January 15th, 2010
8:00 pm
hate to say it James C R , but Glavine would get ROCKED, everything else was nice though
the real Andy
January 15th, 2010
8:01 pm
so, if laroche was available for 4.5 mill (up to 6 with incentives), why did we go with an old guy with questionable defense, coming off an injury?
Chuck James was Solid Until the 6th!!!
January 15th, 2010
8:02 pm
DOB
Yeh if you read further in to my post, I said unanimous, just forgot to on the first mention… I meant, to clarify, if he doesn’t get in UNANIMOUS then the idiot/s did it just to be that “guy” behind the scene so he can brag behind closed doors that he was the reason. Or some of these guys hold long personal vendettas because they may have had a bad run in with Mad Dog back in like ‘89 and havn’t let it go …. That’s usually the case when guys like Ruth and Williams didn’t get in unaninmously as they %1000000 should have! Especially when you consider Ruth had 96 wins as a pitcher with an ERA in the 3’s!! That’s ABSURD!!!
Jeter
January 15th, 2010
8:03 pm
“On the side : When the Braves meet the Yankees in the 2010 World Series, wouldn’t it be nice to have Glavine available to win it for the HOME team”
I like it. Sounds good. It’s only right.
Jeter
January 15th, 2010
8:05 pm
Yeah, Glaus is “old.”
Billy Walsh
January 15th, 2010
8:05 pm
Add Jack Morris to list of pitchers who should be in the HOF
AustinBrave
January 15th, 2010
8:06 pm
CB- AustinBrave, just bought my tickets for Mar.3,4, and 5 games. What days are you going?
Sorry, went to dinner. I am flyimg in on the 10th, hope to see the Yankees on Thursday then will see the Pirates, and Tornoto. Really just can’t wait, meeting some old buddies there.
joerochester
January 15th, 2010
8:06 pm
What about Bert Blylevin? In or Out?
nolie
January 15th, 2010
8:08 pm
Nolie there may have been a couple more deserving of unanimous, but do two wrongs make a right? Eric
I know that this is gonna be a totally unpopular outlook, but I understand why some voters feel that way and vote accordingly. If they think that Babe or Ty or Tom was a better player and didn’t get unanimous, why let someone you value less do it?
It’s not like it would usually mean that the guy wouldn’t still get in on the first ballot. Greg is gonna get in almost assuredly.
I’m not saying that I would vote that way, but I understand the appeal it has to some. and in the right circumstance I might.
I’m not trying to convince anybody that I’m right.
Eric from MO
January 15th, 2010
8:09 pm
Joe I would say it depends on who he is up against. My gut says no. While he was one of the greatest offensive catchers, he was also one of the worst defensive catchers. Also I would never consider him one of the best players of his generation. Example being, McCann is one of the best offensive catchers right now, but do you consider him one of the best players right now, regardless what position they play?
I do believe Piazza is a HOF player. Dont want to make no mistake about that, just not 1st ballot. Sort of why I dont think Smoltz is 1st ballot. I believe he was one of the great pitchers of his generation, behind a few obviously, but not one of the best players of his generation. I think 1st ballot should be given to the players who went down as one of the best of their generations, regardless of what position they played. If you put Piazza’s numbers at another position you would never consider him 1st ballot, maybe not even the HOF. So hard for me to put him on 1st ballot. Just my opinion though.
Alan
January 15th, 2010
8:10 pm
DOB, you’re right. Maddux should be a sure-fire first-ballot unanimous pick for the Hall of Fame, but he won’t be. No one has been — ever. He’ll get in for sure, and he’ll probably get 90+ percent of the vote. In my opinion, Glavine (with 300 lifetime wins) deserves to get in on the first ballot, but I don’t think he will, and I don’t think Smoltz will get in on the first ballot, either. In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if it takes several years before Smoltz gets elected. Just like you, I don’t have a whole lot of faith in the electorate.
nolie
January 15th, 2010
8:11 pm
Add Jack Morris to list of pitchers who should be in the HOF Billy Walsh
borderline IMO. won’t matter to me either way. I’d vote Bly in first, myself. again not trying to sell my position
Eric from MO
January 15th, 2010
8:12 pm
Nolie what if every voter thought that way and no one voted for him. Then he would never be on the ballot again. I realize this would never happen, but that is how stupid it is not to vote for a guy because everybody else is. It is plain ludicrous. You are voting on that guy. Not guys who played 50 years ago.
the real Andy
January 15th, 2010
8:13 pm
i do think that maddux has a legitimate chance to be a unanimous first ballot choice.
two large reasons, other than his obviously deserving career
1) he is the poster boy of non-enhanced performance who did his best work in the heart of the steroid era. Hall voters obviously let this influence them on McGwire (and certainly Palmeiro, Clemens, Sosa, etc will suffer their wrath as well). i think it will factor into their decision.
2) maddux has a pretty unanimous good-guy image. i met him as a green horn sports writer, and he treated me with absolutely nothing but graciousness, despite the fact that i pestered him a little about the strike five weeks before it happened. i have to wonder if there is a single sportswriter that has it in for him.
nolie
January 15th, 2010
8:14 pm
You are voting on that guy. Not guys who played 50 years ago. Eric
I said that nobody would agree with it, but that is my thought on the matter after much cogitatin”.
HOF Voting
January 15th, 2010
8:15 pm
A quirky solution would be to make the voting public for ten years, and then close it up again. That way one or two could get voted in unanimous, and it would be common knowledge that making the vote public was the catalyst for the sudden change.
That way the non-unanimous votings of Babe and the like would have a secure place, as the first unanimous player(s) would have an unspoken asterisk.
Then close it back up, because the angle of guarding against the unanimous vote to guard the legacies would be over with.
Just an idea.
Billy Walsh
January 15th, 2010
8:16 pm
Piazza is a first ballot HOF. That is a no brainer. He is the greatest offensive catcher of all time. Look at his numbers when he was with the Dodgers (96-01). Put those numbers up at any position and you are a first ballot HOF. 36 hr 113 rbi and 308 batting average in his 16 year career is a first ballot resume.
joerochester
January 15th, 2010
8:16 pm
Eric,
I see what you mean. Piazza, however, has the most HRs hit by a catcher; was named to the all star team 12 times; has 10 silver slugger awards; and He’s Italian.
nolie
January 15th, 2010
8:16 pm
I agree that Mad Dog has a fair chance of collecting all the votes not just because of his career accomplishments.
ncgary
January 15th, 2010
8:17 pm
i agree with bert that curveball alone was hof
nolie
January 15th, 2010
8:18 pm
I would vote the Pizza man in first ballot… unless I thought there was a chance he might be unanimous J/K.
Billy Walsh
January 15th, 2010
8:19 pm
Tim Raines deserves to be in too
Eric from MO
January 15th, 2010
8:21 pm
Joe I agree that he is defiently HOF material and withing his first 3 years. My only thought, is if all position players were stuck together would you still think he was one of the best of his generation? My thought no. The only reason I can see putting him down 1st ballot is that to my knowledge he has no link to steroids and if voters refuse to put in steroid users, which I disagree with but thats another day, then they have to put in someone.
Venice Jim
January 15th, 2010
8:21 pm
Since my two all-time favorite players are Greg Maddux and Tom Seaver, I would love to see the two of them at the top of the list for best percentage of the Hall of Fame vote, regardless of the order…
Heath
January 15th, 2010
8:22 pm
I voted on the poll that smoltz will be eventually, but not on the first ballot. I just get the impression that the people casting the votes will punish him for that time as a closer. I think he could very easily be a first-ballot guy, but as DOB said…some voters are just odd with their reasoning.
Eric from MO
January 15th, 2010
8:23 pm
the real Andy I at one time thought the same thing you did too on your number one. If you refuse to vote for steroid users then you have to vote for somebody. However, there will be at least one or two people who wont.
ncscoots
January 15th, 2010
8:23 pm
Of the players in the HOF, who here remembers on which ballot they got in? Anybody? Bueller? Didn’t think so.
There aren’t any shootout points awarded for making it on the first, second, or tenth ballot, nor for percentage of votes upon the entry. I can’t imagine one player in the HOF berating one of his brethren over how many ballots it took to get in: “Sorry, Mr. Rice, REAL Hall of Famers get in on the first ballot. Please don’t sit at our table.”
In other words, who gives a happy bleep, LOL? You’re in…the…Hall…of Fame. Binary solution, no gray area. Like that.
nolie
January 15th, 2010
8:25 pm
Since my two all-time favorite players are Greg Maddux and Tom Seaver, I would love to see the two of them at the top of the list for best percentage of the Hall of Fame vote, regardless of the order… VJ
I think there is a good chance you will get your wish. Tom Terrific was almost a Brave too remember. I love drop & drive guys and Tom was a great example
BravesFanChris25
January 15th, 2010
8:26 pm
I’m finally able to see The Hurt Locker. I ordered it on demand PPV order. I’m enjoying it so far
nolie
January 15th, 2010
8:26 pm
Scoots, how ’bout iffen you gots to wait for the OldTimers committee to get ya in?
joerochester
January 15th, 2010
8:30 pm
Eric,
Did you vote for Kevin Appier?
Chuck James was Solid Until the 6th!!!
January 15th, 2010
8:30 pm
Joeroch
Bert should %100 be in by now. Especially because of his consistency and durability and what was he 9 wins shy or whatever of 300?? And yes Piazza is a 1rst ballot NO DOUBT. The thing that baffled me about this years HOF candidates was McGriff. The man was as consistent a 1rst baseman in the history of the game for nearly 2 decades, helped lead the Braves to a WS title and had 493 HR’s and got what %20?!?!??!?! That is absurd too!!! He better get in one day or the system is flawed. Because if he hit those extra 7 measley HR’s, he would have been a shoe-in, no? He was never linked to steroids, was a class-act and had one hellofa commercial and the hat he wore in that commercial should get him in alone!
All joking aside, I was expecting McGriff to get atleast %60 votes if not elected….. Something is wrong…
joerochester
January 15th, 2010
8:31 pm
scoots,
I guarantee you the player knows what ballot they got in on.
ncscoots
January 15th, 2010
8:34 pm
nolie, I gots no problem with the Veterans’ Committee, either, LOL. With no offense to DOB, those guys are as likely to be on target with selections as the BBWAA.
Now, if folks want to get hot and bothered about a player who should or should not be in the Hall (in their opinion), that’s something I can get. The number of ballots and vote percentages? Seems superfluous.
FJR
January 15th, 2010
8:36 pm
DOB,
You seen Crazy Heart yet? Soundtrack looks unreal amazing.
Supes
January 15th, 2010
8:36 pm
DOB,
Excellent blog, you’ve been turning out great stuff in the off-season. I haven’t posted much but I always make sure I read it.
On the HOF, no doubt in my mind and I’m being biased as a Braves fan that Maddux, Smoltz and Glavine should all go on the 1st ballot all as Braves. It would be awesome to see that, of course they won’t go the same year but it’ll still be a tremendous honor and something that us Braves fans can celebrate.
I would be very happy to see the Braves offering Glavine and eventually Smoltz a job with the Organization in some capacity.
Oh, and I still think it’s a travesty that Robbie Alomar didn’t get into the HOF on his 1st ballot, I hated him as a blue jay (as they beat the Braves in those WS), but he was a heck of a 2nd baseman for a decade.
joerochester
January 15th, 2010
8:37 pm
Frank Thomas… First ballot?
Alex
January 15th, 2010
8:37 pm
DOB-
What are your thoughts on the Braves making a run at the recently DFA’ed Eric Byrnes rather than go for Damon? I know the injury history is a bit of a concern, but the defense and the potential power bat seems to cancel that out for me.
Also, the Big Star box set is amazing…thanks for bringing it up in here, I forgot about it and just picked it up. Best box set I’ve listened to since the Faces “Five Guys Walk into a Bar…”
Chuck James was Solid Until the 6th!!!
January 15th, 2010
8:37 pm
Eric from MO
In regards to Piazza and McCann, they are what they are Catchers!! So when they are going to be viewed on the ballot, the voters have to look at how they match up to Catchers in the hall. If McCann keeps what he is doing up he will go down as one of the top 5 Catchers of All-Time. So I think Piazza gets in 1rst ballot because he was the best offensively at his position throughout his entire career which spanned a solid 2 decades of consistent power!
Summer of 91
January 15th, 2010
8:40 pm
a player knows when he was drafted too but does it matter in the end? I gotta agree w/ scoots…If you make it in that is all that matters at the end of the day.- Or just make another hall of fame and call it “The Real Hall of Fame” and put all the first ballot guys in there.
keylargo
January 15th, 2010
8:46 pm
Do you wonder what the enemy is thinking about the Braves? Here is the Phillies take on the offseason moves the Braves have made and what they expect out of them next year.
http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/phillies/81300842.html
Don
January 15th, 2010
8:52 pm
Is the current player payroll budget going to be the same in 2020, 2030, and beyond. This is about the same budget that it was 5, 6 years ago? Is there never any leniency to get a player who can help the club, without having to trade or cut another? This budget stuff has gotten very old!
This is not a compelling team right now, and although Damon would not be a total cure, it would at least raise more interest. As stands now, I see a team with 80 +/- wins in 2010, a ho-hummer for Cox’s last year.
joerochester
January 15th, 2010
8:55 pm
They don’t believe in the signing of Wagner at all.
Tomahawkin
January 15th, 2010
8:56 pm
I’d Take Frank Thomas
As an Baseball player that was a Football Player at Auburn, Hell Yeah!
Thomas and Griffey were the most Dominiant hitters from 1993-1999…
Too Bad That Griffey didn’t come to the “A” in 2000
joerochester
January 15th, 2010
8:57 pm
Griffey definitely has the greatest swing of all time.
joerochester
January 15th, 2010
8:58 pm
I like this whole recommendations thing on Amazon.com.. but every now and then they throw in something crazy like “Erotic Arabian Love Stories” and you’re like WTF?
Tomahawkin
January 15th, 2010
9:00 pm
Piazza May’ve Been on Roids or some other PED’s…
Consider it, He played the most demanding position on the field and his knees broke down…Think about it he didn’t even play his career on Artificial turf
StingerSplash
January 15th, 2010
9:01 pm
God, Brown was nasty.
I’ve heard that applies to his demeanor as well as to his pitching repertoire.
Bedell
January 15th, 2010
9:02 pm
The Waterboys, that’s what I’m talking about!
Summer of 91
January 15th, 2010
9:04 pm
they think Wagner is dirt. I’m still not sure why we let Rafi and Gonzo go for Saito and Wags, but I’m on board now, as a Braves fan you gotta just get on board, It made alot more sense before the Melky/Javy deal. I don’t like running out so many different players every year, I know it’s a sign of the times but damn!
Steve from OH
January 15th, 2010
9:04 pm
Consider it, He played the most demanding position on the field and his knees broke down
Eh, I dunno. That’s pretty weak evidence for PED use. Not saying he didn’t do it, but that’s not proof he did it…
McFann
January 15th, 2010
9:04 pm
nolie lotsa folks feel the same way you do, certainly McFann does
Totally!
Doubles are the greatest…Remember, “homers are rally killers”…
Mark Bowmen (Around the Horn: Catchers) Still, as long as McCann continues producing the offensive numbers that have been present throughout the early years of his career, there won’t be many people nitpicking about his defense.
Uh-huh, yeah…
jeffrey d
January 15th, 2010
9:08 pm
Check out the poll on ESPN.com:
Which young NL East starting pitcher is the best?
-Hamels
-Johnson
-Jurrjens
JJ is in 3rd with 20% of the votes
http://sports-ak.espn.go.com/mlb/index
Ozzie
January 15th, 2010
9:10 pm
Diaz is a good egg and a fun player but I have a feeling (as I had said) if Wren moves one of the 4th OFers it will be Matt.
I think they are intrigued by Melky and given the age & defensive strength differences Wren opts for the 25yo switch hitter with a WS ring versus the 32yo good egg who can hit lefties.
Keeping Melky is a risk no doubt but his potential trade upside is higher than Diaz. Diaz needs to be on an AL team where he can play the OF and DH.
At some point they are going to let Diaz go for nothing. At 32yo Wren may decide not to wait for economics to cause him to drop Diaz not when he can get prospects today.
Wren could find a team like that and get something useful.
joerochester
January 15th, 2010
9:10 pm
I would say:
1. Johnson
2. Jurrjens
3. Hamels
jeffrey d
January 15th, 2010
9:16 pm
I would say:
1. Johnson
2. Jurrjens
3. Hamels
I’d go for that…although I voted for JJ in the poll.
Summer of 91
January 15th, 2010
9:21 pm
johnson
jurrjens
hanson
joerochester
January 15th, 2010
9:22 pm
Hamels is a weenie. He needs to shut up and play the game. Last season he complained way too much about stupid stuff.
Summer of 91
January 15th, 2010
9:24 pm
I’m over Hamels, he got his money. Johnson may win the Cy this year, STUD
Tomahawkin
January 15th, 2010
9:25 pm
Steve From OH
Piazza Will come out and Admit his PED use within the next few years, “Bank On It!’ It seems like a current or ex-MLB player gets busted or admits PED/Steroid use every 6 months…
Summer of 91
January 15th, 2010
9:27 pm
i wish they would just make the list public. why do we have to have this 1 by 1 thing ? this might take twenty years for everyone to be named and then admit it.
keylargo
January 15th, 2010
9:30 pm
This in no way is of the magnitude of the Banned One predicting a football score but…………..
keylargo
January 12th, 2010
3:55 pm
RC – I live just South of Miami and I follow the Marlins quite a bit. They are now, under this ownership, CHEAPSKATES.
They may have agreed to increase their payroll, but I promise you that there will be some underhanded way of doing it. Like signing Josh Johnson to a Hanley Ramirez like contract
Florida Marlins ace Josh Johnson agrees to four-year, $39M deal
Days after they were criticized for not spending more on players’ salaries, the Florida Marlins agreed to terms with ace Josh Johnson on a four-year, $39 million contract. Miami Herald
nolie
January 15th, 2010
9:32 pm
Frank Thomas… First ballot joe r
yeah as long as his name stays untainted
jeffrey d
January 15th, 2010
9:34 pm
Nobody likes a bragger
Summer of 91
January 15th, 2010
9:35 pm
I think that money is just fine for STUD, maybe even a steal. not sure why a Marlins fan is upset.
nolie
January 15th, 2010
9:36 pm
I know that Teddy Ballgame and some of the other oldtime “real” HOFers were upset by some of the players who squeezed in at the last moment or who came in via OldTimmersComm. “A real HOFer doesn’t hafta wait around for years to get in.”
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 15th, 2010
9:37 pm
Steve from OH,
You never replied.
nolie
January 15th, 2010
9:38 pm
All joking aside, I was expecting McGriff to get atleast %60 votes if not elected….. Something is wrong… Chuck
really? not me. I think he is borderline and will take a while to get there, though in the long run I think it likely that he will be elected.
John
January 15th, 2010
9:43 pm
The begger coming back. Another reason to hate the Braves. And I do mean Hate.
joerochester
January 15th, 2010
9:43 pm
I think it will take the Crime Dog a few years to get in.
Lew
January 15th, 2010
9:43 pm
Uh, Tore up knees for a catcher is job related stress-NOT proof of steroid use. It’s kind of why so many catchers play first base later in their career-their knees are shot.
Chuck James was Solid Until the 6th!!!
January 15th, 2010
9:44 pm
nolie
If McGriff finished with 500 HR’s….. He gets in 1rst ballot right?? Especially in the steroid era and he was no way a user being he looked the same in his 1rst game as he did his last. Was the definition of consistent, was a class-act and helped lead the Braves to a WS title. It’s a no brainer to me. You don’t think he should have atleast gotten %60??? I sure as hell do!
And as for Bert Bly if he had 300 wins, I know he’s 10-14 short or whatever…I’m saying if he had 300 even, he would have been in… His consistency was amazing!
Chuck James was Solid Until the 6th!!!
January 15th, 2010
9:45 pm
Lew
Exactly!
joerochester
January 15th, 2010
9:49 pm
Bly will get in next year most likely. He’s like 6 votes short.
Lew
January 15th, 2010
9:50 pm
Chuck-And Blyleven had the best curve I’ve ever seen. Jim Kaat should be in, too, for his fielding if nothing else. He had something like 13 Gold Gloves and won close enough to 300 games for him to be a no brainer. Maybe Tommy John, too-or at least they should pay him royalties on using his name so damned much.
nolie
January 15th, 2010
9:51 pm
If McGriff finished with 500 HR’s….. He gets in 1rst ballot right? Chuck
I don’t think that is an automatic anymore what with guys hitting way more than 500 in recent years. I don’t think the 7 homers are making much difference. I think he will get in but I think it will take 5 or more years b4 it happens. There is a “dead” year coming up, but a pretty strong slate of players are entering the race over the next 5-6 years, and a lot of years only one or at most two guys get in. I think he will hafta wait his turn.
Tomahawkin
January 15th, 2010
9:52 pm
I agree
They Should Make The HOF list a pubic balloting just like they do for the crappy all star selections online and at the ballparks…but I think the HOF voting would be better online since it won’t be done by Naive kids
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 15th, 2010
9:54 pm
Johnson may win the Cy this year, STUD
Josh Johnson? Not a stud, overrated.
nolie
January 15th, 2010
9:55 pm
and he was no way a user being he looked the same in his 1rst game as he did his last. Chuck
that’s a flimsy argument, lots of proven cheaters didn’t change their appearance. depends on how they used then. Justice and Palmeiro never changed, nor did most any pitcher who used them and there were aton of those. Way too simplistic an argument. Might be true that he never used, I kinda believe it is, but nothing proves it by appearance.
Chuck James was Solid Until the 6th!!!
January 15th, 2010
9:55 pm
Lew
Yeh, that curve was freakish, makes Zito’s look like a straight shot….
nolie
My reasoning with McGriff and the 500 was he did it without the steroids. 500 doesn’t mean AS MUCH these days because of the inflated steroid-era numbers. My reasoning, again that McGriff should have gotten atleast %60 if not in, is because he had NOTHING to do with steroids and his 493 HR’s were all off pure talent, not cheating. And speaking of Griffey with the sweetest swing ever, I put McGriff up there too…
Summer of 91
January 15th, 2010
9:59 pm
sorry man, Johnson is the real deal, JJ is the sh*t too, I’m a huge Braves fan so I love me some JJ and Hanson, but Josh Johnson is a stud. Ask Bobby Cox or anyone in Baseball if he’s overated.
Summer of 91
January 15th, 2010
10:00 pm
just realized something, Hopefully it is obvious in an ATL blog that JJ refers to Jurrjens.
lebrave
January 15th, 2010
10:05 pm
in sheer boredom tonight i’ve been listening to the ryan adams & the cardinals show from last year at the fox theater in atlanta on archive.org….what a shame this guy isn’t playing music anymore….this guy set a bar that nobody could reach…so it’s probably a great thing for the rest of us musicians that he’s not making us all look silly anymore.
Summer of 91
January 15th, 2010
10:07 pm
oh yea and Josh Johnson hit bombs also.
lexbrave
January 15th, 2010
10:07 pm
fyi lebrave is lexbrave with a stuck x key on his keyboard
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 15th, 2010
10:09 pm
Summer of 91
Johnson isn’t even in the top ten of best starting pitchers in the NL
joerochester
January 15th, 2010
10:12 pm
jurrjens–
We were talking about the NL East.
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 15th, 2010
10:20 pm
I’m just saying that Johnson is very overrated, and no where near a stud. If the voters knew what JJ (Jurrjens) could do, JJ (Jurrjens) would be in the lead.
Chuck James was Solid Until the 6th!!!
January 15th, 2010
10:21 pm
nolie
Palmeiro In Minor Leagues: http://woolis.com/images/Vintage/87Palmeiro3Web.jpg
Palmeiro In ‘06ish: http://cache.deadspin.com/sports/raffyandsosabestbuds.jpg
(Suspicious in the Orioles Uni is how baggy it was there and you can tell he’s massive there)
Justice was a unique case with roids as I believe he used them very limitedly post-ATL
Justice as a Rookie: http://www.johnstoncrew.com/LeafDaveJusticeRC.jpg
Justice as a Yankee: http://unsportsmanlikecomment.files.wordpress.com/2007/12/x00229_9.jpg
It was as evident with Dave, because as I mentioned he was allegedly a temporary user (less then 3 years) Whereas guys like Giambi, Bonds, McGwire, Sosa etc. were users for 5-10 years
Eric from MO
January 15th, 2010
10:23 pm
Chuck (8:37 post) your entitled to your opinion and trust me I understand your reasoning. Just my opinion 1st ballot goes to players who were the best players of their era, regardless of their position. When I think of the top players from 93 to 05(highlight of his career) I just dont think of Piazza as one of them. Obviously a HOF and one of the 3 best catchers to play the game. Like I said I understand your all’s opinion, just isnt mine. I dont think either is right or wrong.
MEB
January 15th, 2010
10:25 pm
Saw Blyleven pitch many times in the early 70’s and there has never been a better curveball! He was always outspoken and maybe a bit of a nut. Deserves to be in the Hall and I think he’ll make it.
nolie
January 15th, 2010
10:27 pm
First ballot often depends on the slate. Seldom do more than one or two guys get elected, and that can push others back sometimes
Chuck James was Solid Until the 6th!!!
January 15th, 2010
10:29 pm
nolie
Clemens as a Rookie (Look at his upper body in particular): http://cache.boston.com/bonzai-fba/Globe_Photo/2006/04/04/1144166991_0860.jpg
Clemens in his roided days beating ATL with his Boy Roid Pettitte stealing the NLDS from ATL by cheating (Here he is with a Yankee, notice the baggy shirt again): http://www.esquire.com/cm/esquire/images/roger-clemens-0209-lg-42231918.jpg
Alot of the roid users, like Manny for example think by wearing those big baggy uniforms fools us, but we’re not idiots…
nolie
January 15th, 2010
10:32 pm
Deserves to be in the Hall and I think he’ll make it. MEB
I think he will likely make it too.He has two more years and was only a few votes short this time
joerochester
January 15th, 2010
10:32 pm
Chuck,
I understand what you’re saying. However, players will get bigger over their career with strength training… just not THAT big.
Eric from MO
January 15th, 2010
10:32 pm
Why are Braves fans putting Johnson ahead of Jair? He has already had injury problems, is two years older, and had a worse season than JJ in 2008 and 2009(JJ’s only two full seasons). I understand for Phillies fans voting for their guy and Marlin fans voting for their guy, but why do Braves fans not like Jair. I really dont get why Braves fans dont realize how good he is. Is it because scouts only projected him as a number 2 at best? We all know scouts have never been wrong. What does he have to do to get some love from Braves fans.
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 15th, 2010
10:33 pm
Brown was nasty.
Brown still is nasty. My baby cousin had Brown in his pants at the park last week, filthy filthy stuff.
I’ll say this Johnson is a good pitcher, could be great if he wasn’t so flaky. But saying he is a stud and a Cy Young contender is crazy.
Can you honestly tell me that you would rather have Johnson on this team than Jurrjens?
Chuck James was Solid Until the 6th!!!
January 15th, 2010
10:33 pm
Eric from MO
I get what you’re sayin man. My SOLE reasoning is that when you’re looking at players for HOF voting, you compare players to guys that played the similar position. So Piazza IS one of the top 3 offensive catchers EVER so he gets in IMO. Do you think Ryne Sandberg would have gotten in if he was a 1rst Baseman?? HELLLL NO!!! The reason he got in was because he was one of the top 2nd Baseman ever, AKA, one of the very best at his POSITION of all time…. Just like Piazza clearly was for a VERY long time…
hal
January 15th, 2010
10:35 pm
it makes mne laugh when people talk about damons defence after a season of watching loaf ,like get real can you pppl see???
Chuck James was Solid Until the 6th!!!
January 15th, 2010
10:36 pm
Not me Eric! I think Jair will win 2+ Cy Youngs when all is said and done and he acts like a 12 year seasoned veteran on the mound. He is an absolute stud and is TWENTY THREE!!! God I love that dude!!
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 15th, 2010
10:38 pm
I think Jair will win 2+ Cy Youngs when all is said and done and he acts like a 12 year seasoned veteran on the mound. He is an absolute stud and is TWENTY THREE!!! God I love that dude!!
AMEN!
joerochester
January 15th, 2010
10:38 pm
If Jurrjens strikes more people out he has a good chance of being a cy young candidate.
nolie
January 15th, 2010
10:41 pm
there are dozens and dozens of pitchers who used who did not change much. Taking steroids does not bulk you up unless you use them for that reason. all players even non users get bigger as they get olderand yes even b4 PEDs there were some big increases in size.. you can not know for sure by looking a lot of the time and you are kidding yourself if you think that you can. Manny bulked up some but many did not. More players used it for bounce-back effect than used it to bulk up. Believe what you want. I’m not gonna argue the point any more,
anyway a number of players have gotten 20 some% the first time and eventually gotten in.
But I bet you my Confederate dollar he does not get in in the next 2-3 years, maybe not in the next 5-6 years.
Tennbravefan
January 15th, 2010
10:41 pm
Derrick Dooley is the Anti-Kiffin. I have no clue whether or not the guy can coach football, but he appearred to be pure class in his press conference.
Eric from MO
January 15th, 2010
10:43 pm
Everybody argueing McGriff should be in, here is another opinion on why he isnt. Most Hall-of-Famers have a team that he is associated with that he played with for 10 or more years. We all associate McGriff with the Braves since we are Braves fans. However, he only played 4.5 years here, which was the most for him with any team. For a player who is borderline they almost need a team to be associated with to put them over the top. McGriff does not have this. He played for 6 different teams over the course of his career. I believe this has hurt him. Its just an idea. Does everybody think I am completely off-base or may be on to something?
nolie
January 15th, 2010
10:44 pm
BTW Chipper is 50 lbs heavier now than he was in AA andAA ball.
Eric from MO
January 15th, 2010
10:45 pm
Chuck I agree with your thinking on HOF overall. Just not on the first ballot.
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 15th, 2010
10:45 pm
Also,
Sandy Koufax is the greatest lefty of all time, if Johnson or Glavine would have ever pitched 335.2 innings, 382 K’s with a .85 WHIP (That’s right, .85), we’d have won my vote.
nolie
January 15th, 2010
10:46 pm
He played for 6 different teams over the course of his career. I believe this has hurt him. Its just an idea. Does everybody think I am completely off-base or may be on to something? Eric
I think that makes sense. A Maddux doesn’t need that, but it can’t hurt someone than many see as borderline. In the long rum likely not a deal breaker, but in the short run it might make a difference.
nolie
January 15th, 2010
10:47 pm
But it took Sandy FOREVER to get it together
Soph
January 15th, 2010
10:49 pm
J-Crawwwwww. Hawks win on a buzzer beating 3.
Jake W.
January 15th, 2010
10:50 pm
Great end to that Hawks game. Just like that Utah-Cleveland game last night.
Brandon from Warner Robins
January 15th, 2010
10:53 pm
now that was a finish….good win for the Hawks.
Glad to see Glavine might be rejoining the organization.
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 15th, 2010
10:54 pm
But it took Sandy FOREVER to get it together
Pssssssh!
White man be keepin’ him down!
http://tinyurl.com/57zres
Braveheart
January 15th, 2010
10:59 pm
I don’t think Maddux, Glavine or Smoltz used PEDs, but then again how do we really know? Not every one used to get big. Some used just to recover. Maddux and Glavine never went on the DL. Smoltz came back from catastrophic arm injury after catastrophic arm injury, and was still a power pitcher in his 40s. How many other power pitchers past the age of 40 have there been in the history of the game before Nolan Ryan, who while he was in his 40s was a teammate of well known PED users such as Canseco, Palmeiro, Pudge, Juan Gone, Kevin Brown……….
nolie
January 15th, 2010
10:59 pm
actually Sand and The Big Ugly were something alike. They were both very wild as youngsters and ended up with great control. Randy had a WHIP of .90 one year, not much difference there
unbelievable
January 15th, 2010
11:06 pm
is Boras wearing a dickie in that picture? reminds me a cousin eddie
unbelievable
January 15th, 2010
11:08 pm
also – I would like to see the Braves go maybe $2-3mil over their self imposed payroll and save more in the long run by leaving Heyward in AAA for a while. Seems logical
Tom O'Hawke
January 15th, 2010
11:17 pm
“I don’t think Maddux, Glavine or Smoltz used PEDs, but then again how do we really know?”
—– Braveheart
Unfortunately, no matter how much time goes on, we’ll only find out, little by little, those that are guilty. We’ll probably never know for sure, those that aren’t. It’s too bad for the fans, but even worse for the innocent ballplayers that did it the “hard (and honest) way”.
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 15th, 2010
11:20 pm
Randy had a WHIP of .90 one year, not much difference there
Was it over 335 innings?
EARLY WYNN
January 15th, 2010
11:22 pm
Early Wynn won exactly 300 games, the last in 1963 but wasn’t elected to the Hall of Fame until 1972.
Venice Jim
January 15th, 2010
11:33 pm
I’ve always wondered if Tom O’Hawke was using PED’s – but we’ll never know…
cabravesfan
January 15th, 2010
11:37 pm
Hey Tom
Tom O'Hawke
January 15th, 2010
11:41 pm
I’ve always wondered if Tom O’Hawke was using PED’s – but we’ll never know…
Uh, … and hello to you too Venice Jim. I’m sorry about my 11:17 post. Every once and awhile, a little profoundness leaks out of me. If it’s not too much trouble, say “hi” to cab.
Tom O'Hawke
January 15th, 2010
11:43 pm
VJ, omit last sentence.
Hi, LAdy.
Venice Jim
January 15th, 2010
11:48 pm
Tom O – We are currently playing around with YouTube videos – I just led her into Billy Joel/Elton John together – damn, I’m old…
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 15th, 2010
11:49 pm
I’ve used PEDs,
Every morning I drink some coffee to preform better in life.
Mitchie-san
January 15th, 2010
11:49 pm
“old coronado sailor, just like in the song …, them was the dayz”
I was stationed on the USS Coronado (AGF-11). Them were the days…
cabravesfan
January 15th, 2010
11:50 pm
It’s kind of sad, really…I like about 95% of his music and he refuses to listen to most of mine…
JIM KAAT
January 15th, 2010
11:50 pm
Kaat won 283 lost 237 with an ERA of 3.45 over a 25 year career. Why isn’t he in the HOF?
Daybed Wagmoe
January 15th, 2010
11:54 pm
DOB — While I was reading your blog, I looked up Kevin Brown’s game log for 1996 on baseball-reference.com. 8 out of his 11 losses (yes, 8 out of 11) were quality starts. And in 7 of those starts he went not just the requisite 6 innings for a quality start, but at least 7 innings. Wow. Good thing Smoltz was so Cy Young-like. (Eh heh heh, right?)
uga-brave
January 15th, 2010
11:56 pm
you gotta admitt the braves ran into their share of pitchers having career years in the playoffs.
brown with san diego and florida, schilling, the unit, kerry wood, mark prior and oswalt.
one thing they all had in common? dead arse power pitchers.
Reid Adair
January 15th, 2010
11:56 pm
If John Schuerholz could find a way to get rid of Frank Wren and make Tom Glavine the GM? Now that would be fitting.
But, I commend Glavine for not snubbing the Braves after last year’s debacle. Wren could definitely take some lessons from Glavine on class.
nolie
January 15th, 2010
11:57 pm
Was it over 335 innings? JJ
no it was over 245, but it is a percentage y’know? They don’t pitch 300+ innings any more in case you hadn’t noticed. He did have 290 Ks in 245 IP.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
12:01 am
Early Wynn won exactly 300 games, the last in 1963 but wasn’t elected to the Hall of Fame until 1972 EW
a part of that was a perception that he hung around just to win 300, not pitching all that well. It ain’t completely true IMO, but that was the rap.
uga-brave
January 16th, 2010
12:02 am
kevin brown those two years with the fish and the pads was flat out filthy.
threw hard and threw a heavy ball.
uga-brave
January 16th, 2010
12:06 am
speaking of pitching, how many potentially great pitchers will dusty baker ruin?
prior, wood, schmidt, harang, now maybe volquez and cueto.
Tom O'Hawke
January 16th, 2010
12:09 am
Tom O – We are currently playing around with YouTube videos – I just just led her into Billy Joel/Elton John together – damn, I’m old…
VJ, you don’t have to be old to appreciate good music. My father was into music, when I was growing up, the way DOB seems to be now. He died when I was 16 (my father, not DOB). I kind of stayed into that era of music. My musical appreciation (group-wise), if anything, went more back into time than in the future. I liked to find out the origins of the artists that I liked.
I think we both like many songs/artists from the same time period. You are probably more country, I’m more rock. Wouldn’t that make a great song? Maybe we can get Donny and Marie to sing it.
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 16th, 2010
12:09 am
no it was over 245, but it is a percentage y’know? They don’t pitch 300+ innings any more in case you hadn’t noticed. He did have 290 Ks in 245 IP.
Shhh Unlce nolie, it’s far past your bed time, take your Ambien and Thorazine (for your hiccups) and go to sleep, we don’t need you smarting off to anyone Mr. Crankypants ll.
cabravesfan
January 16th, 2010
12:13 am
Time for bed
Night Tom! (and to the rest of the blog as well
)
cabravesfan
January 16th, 2010
12:17 am
Tom O – more country? From whence comes that? I grew up a few miles from Billy Joel (5 years older than me), and he used to play at my high school – country not exactly a Long Island thing… Not into the some of the hard rock LALady is into…
nolie
January 16th, 2010
12:19 am
smartin’ off ain’t necessarily bein’ cranky even for us Methuselahs. I’m proud to say that I can be a smartypants tired or rested.
Tom O'Hawke
January 16th, 2010
12:19 am
It’s kind of sad, really…I like about 95% of his music and he refuses to listen to most of mine…
cabravesfan, don’t ever let a guy know that you like 95% of ANYTHING. You don’t have to be a mathematician, like Jim, to know that you’re way ahead of the odds!
Good night.
TnBrian
January 16th, 2010
12:21 am
Reid Adair, right on. Whatever anger people had or still have at Glavine for the “strike” situation should now realize how classy this guy is. If he takes a job with the org. that “snubbed” him only a year later which had to degrade him to a degree, than I can’t imagine how any Braves fan could hold nothing but much respect for him.
I think ole Johnny would have a job by now if his agent wasn’t being a greedy prick. I know he’s made him and most of his other clients rich through the years, but he can be flat out rediculous. I wouldn’t be shocked if none of Damon,Nady or Ankiel are signed by ST, maybe right before.
Tom O'Hawke
January 16th, 2010
12:23 am
Tom O – more country? From whence comes that?
cabravesfan, I meant that for the chef.
Venice Jim
January 16th, 2010
12:23 am
Tom O – I thought I changed names – damn! Obviously, she is not 5 years younger than BJ…
Venice Jim
January 16th, 2010
12:23 am
I am and idiot…
Tom O'Hawke
January 16th, 2010
12:25 am
Jim, that was you, wasn’t it?
nolie
January 16th, 2010
12:27 am
I am and idiot VJ
glad to see that I am not the only one who does that sometimes.
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 16th, 2010
12:28 am
smartin’ off ain’t necessarily bein’ cranky even for us Methuselahs. I’m proud to say that I can be a smartypants tired or rested.
Laughing at yourself? Really??
Jimmy Fallon? Is that you?
Venice Jim
January 16th, 2010
12:29 am
nolie – I could have sworn I had changed names that time – usually she’s next to me to notice my dimwittedness…
Tom O'Hawke
January 16th, 2010
12:29 am
Enter your comments here
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 16th, 2010
12:30 am
nolie,
You changing your name to Uncle nolie?
nolie
January 16th, 2010
12:30 am
I laugh at myself a lot on here youngin
jeffrey d
January 16th, 2010
12:30 am
Enter your comments here
Hmm, good point
Venice Jim
January 16th, 2010
12:31 am
Tom O – thanks for making me feel better
nolie
January 16th, 2010
12:32 am
I really ain’t all that avuncular JJ. Sweet & lovable is a come & go kinda thing for me
KnightInATL
January 16th, 2010
12:33 am
Hellllllllllllllllllllllllllllooooooooooooooooooooooooo……….Baseball Fans!!!!!!!!
I can’t wait to hear Casey Motter utter those words on April 5.
Braveheart
January 16th, 2010
12:34 am
A cynic could also notice that Maddux never had an ERA+ less than 125 from 1992 through 2002. Then when drug testing came around in 2003, he never again had an ERA+ above 110. A cynic could also notice that Glavine had an ERA+ less than 125 only twice from 1991 through 2002. Then when drug testing came around in 2003, he never again had an ERA+ above 120. But then if you say Glavine and Maddux should have fallen off in their late 30s, a cynic could counter by wondering how Smoltz was as good in his late 30s as he was in his late 20s. That’s the shame of the roid era.
Venice Jim
January 16th, 2010
12:35 am
Just pulled up a video of Elton doing “Burn Down the Mission” and realized..the video is from 40 years ago… aaaarrrghhh….
Tom O'Hawke
January 16th, 2010
12:35 am
Sorry, VJ. I’m doing other stuff on the computer. My mental responses and physical ones are a bit behind.
I took you as more “country” than I, because, while I can listen to some, I’m not into it very much. I thought you liked a lot of country artists.
Tom O – thanks for making me feel better
Jim, that’s what I’m here for.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
12:37 am
you sayin’ you’re a cynic BH? or are you just sayin’ ?
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 16th, 2010
12:39 am
I really ain’t all that avuncular JJ. Sweet & lovable is a come & go kinda thing for me
My Uncle ain’t that sweet, at New Years he once punched my mom, told me would ride me like a fat boy and would shoot roman candles at me…
…and then he’d start drinking
Venice Jim
January 16th, 2010
12:39 am
Tom O – I might like some, but, other than Buffett forays into country, not near the top of the list…
David O'Brien
January 16th, 2010
12:41 am
Just got back from seeing Crazy Heart. Great movie, with absolutely terrific performance by Jeff Bridges as the fading, alcoholic country singer, Bad Blake. Best acting performance I’ve seen this year, without question.
The music is outstanding for anyone who likes country or alt-country. There’s tunes by Waylon Jennings, Townes Van Zandt, the Louvin Brothers, Buck Owens, etc. Ryan Bingham does the title song and also plays in the first backup band in some tragic show Bad plays at a bowling alley out in some desert town. Great scene that sets the tone.
Bridges can actually sing quite well, does his own songs and they’re all good. His character reminds me a lot of Waylon, right down to the long hair, sunglasses and beer belly. Robert Duvall’s character even calls him “Hoss” one time.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
12:46 am
one of my favorite actors for years. I always like his movies/ I was thinking a bit of Tender Mercies while watching Duvall in this one.
Tom O'Hawke
January 16th, 2010
12:48 am
Tom O – I might like some, but, other than Buffett forays into country, not near the top of the list…
Jim, that’s what it was, thank you! It has been a while, but you and cab were talking about how much you liked Jimmy Buffett. You were kidding around (or not) about going to a Buffett concert in Long Island, or somewhere near. That’s what gave me the impression that you were into country. I was trying to think back as to why, but couldn’t remember.
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 16th, 2010
12:48 am
DOB,
Have you seen Avatar yet?
David O'Brien
January 16th, 2010
12:50 am
Daybed: I’m telling you, Brown was so ridiculously dominant that season. Batter after batter described hitting his heavy sinker as being like making contact with a bowling ball…
Supes: Embarrasing that Alomar didn’t go in on first ballot. One of those years where I’m honestly glad to say my paper doesn’t allow me to vote, and also glad my year as BBWAA president is up, because I got a bunch of calls from radio stations wanted to interview me and ask about Alomar not getting in and other voting matters. I’d cut them off at the pass by explaining, “Sorry man, but I’m not the president anymore. Call John Lowe of the Detroit Free Press. That’s your man.”
Venice Jim
January 16th, 2010
12:52 am
Tom O – that’s what I was thinking might have confused you – she actually listens to a country station on her way to work most mornings. Very unusual – I am still doing the blog thing, while she’s in bed reading…and I get to stay home tomorrow and avoid a family birthday thing while watching football (and internet-watching W&M hoops)
BraveOne
January 16th, 2010
12:58 am
If not Damon will the braves try to sign Dye or Nady ….?
Mitchie-san
January 16th, 2010
12:58 am
Does anyone think that Alomar’s umpire spitting incident would hinder his chances to get in the hall. I mean of course he will, but it might take a while.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
12:59 am
what? you aren’t gonna be a big shot anymore? I’m not sure I can continue to spend time with just an average ol’ beat writer. Hmmm, gonna hafta think about this for a while
Tom O'Hawke
January 16th, 2010
12:59 am
DOB, as long as you’re still up. In your blog, when you were talking about Brown’s stats, you said, “a league-high 16 batters”. I realize this is a typo, but what is it supposed to be? His walks given up for the year? Did he go the entire season with only giving up 16 walks?
Braveheart
January 16th, 2010
1:00 am
nolie, just sayin’ we can twist it around any which way we want about almost every ballplayer over the last two decades no matter how guilty or not any of them individually are
David O'Brien
January 16th, 2010
1:01 am
nolie, did you see it? If so, wasn’t it great when Duvall sang Billy Joe Shaver’s “Live Forever” while they were out fishing? In case you didn’t stay for all the credits, he sings it in the last minute or two there, too.
Here’s ol’ Billy Joe’s video for the song. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aeJ4kp1AwY4&feature=related
nolie
January 16th, 2010
1:02 am
TOM, my guess is that he hit 16 batters. he was a meanie
David O'Brien
January 16th, 2010
1:03 am
O’Hawke: Glad you caught that typo. Shoulda been league-high 16 batters hit (by pitches.) That’s what I meant by nasty. Dude had great control, but liked to keep batters honest. Or just hit some because he didn’t like them.
Tom O'Hawke
January 16th, 2010
1:04 am
Tom O – that’s what I was thinking might have confused you – she actually listens to a country station on her way to work most mornings.
Jim, now that you mention it, I remember her saying that. Yes, that may have influenced me, also.
Now that I know better, this could be another reason why you are satisfied with, cabravesfan’s, 95%. :p
nolie
January 16th, 2010
1:06 am
yeah I saw it. Great flick. Did not stay fopr the credits, never do.
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 16th, 2010
1:10 am
DOB,
Have you seen Avatar?
David O'Brien
January 16th, 2010
1:12 am
God, Brown was nasty.
I’ve heard that applies to his demeanor as well as to his pitching repertoire. — StingerSplash
No doubt about that.
Steve from OH
January 16th, 2010
1:13 am
Piazza Will come out and Admit his PED use within the next few years, “Bank On It!’ It seems like a current or ex-MLB player gets busted or admits PED/Steroid use every 6 months…
I can’t say that I’d be surprised if he did. I’m just saying the knees thing is poor evidence. That’s all. Take what I say for what it’s worth, nothing more. Don’t read any more into it…I’m really not that clever.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
1:13 am
JJ I think he said he is not all that into sci-fi and would likely wait. but from what I hear it is especially awesome at Imax theaters and everybody who can should see it in one. Unfortuinately the closest to me is 90 some miles and soI am gonna wait. It has a shot at catching Titanic for all time highest gross.
uga-brave
January 16th, 2010
1:15 am
DOB, always thought the “dude” was a very good actor. pretty good body of work. your paper and usa today think me might be a lock for a oscar.
called crazy heart this years wrestler.
Tom O'Hawke
January 16th, 2010
1:15 am
…league-high 16 batters hit (by pitches). —- DOB
Man, back then, between getting hit by a pitch from Kevin Brown, and/or fouling his pitches off your foot or shin, it was probably a better day to have the flu.
uga-brave
January 16th, 2010
1:17 am
never had a white russian though.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
1:18 am
drink or girl UGA?
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 16th, 2010
1:18 am
nolie,
I wouldn’t call it sci fi. It’s like The Matrix meets Tarzan, very good.
Braveheart
January 16th, 2010
1:19 am
Oh, and it looks like I owe Dr. Gupta a big ole apology after my rant the other day. The UN got all cowardly and stranded Dr. Gupta alone at a hospital with a bunch of patients still needing treatment.
Tomahawkin
January 16th, 2010
1:22 am
Steve From OH
And All other Bloggers!
Todd Hundley was on that stuff in 1996-1999….?
Anyone agree…?
nolie
January 16th, 2010
1:24 am
everybody else calls it sci-fi including Cameron. It’s about aliens on an extra-terrestrial world. that is the essence of sci-fi my lad.
uga-brave
January 16th, 2010
1:25 am
nolie, actually neither. nor a czech or a east german. not my style.
speaking of movies. nolie did you ever see ang lee’s “ride with the devil?” pretty fine flick.
uga-brave
January 16th, 2010
1:26 am
bravey, saw him down there. dont be to hard on yourself though. gotta hunch he aint in the trenches.
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 16th, 2010
1:27 am
Wow, this whole Conan vs. Leno thing is getting really nasty. Leno needs to back off and shut the hell up
KC
January 16th, 2010
1:28 am
DOB, forgive me if you’ve already answered this, but… what say you to Bowman’s comment that it would take a miracle to get Damon here? Are you still of the opinion that there’s still a good chance?
nolie
January 16th, 2010
1:28 am
yes I did UGA. I liked it pretty good, in fact I have a copy. Tobey as a gunslinger instead of a web-slinger.
uga-brave
January 16th, 2010
1:30 am
nolie, i have not seen avatar. really not much of a desire. saw dances with wolves.
that said have you heard or read about the freaks in major depression after seeing the movie. they somehow are depressed that this place does not really exist.
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 16th, 2010
1:34 am
uga-brave,
Colbert Report?
nolie
January 16th, 2010
1:36 am
nolie, i have not seen avatar. really not much of a desire. saw dances with wolves UGA
well there is no question but that westerns and sci-fi are related. In the early days 30s-60s many writers wrote both and sci-fi was often a western plot that took place in space. That is kinda like Avatar from all I have read and heard. I wanna see it I love both genres. along with screwball comedies and film noir.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
1:36 am
Enter your comments here
Braves_Fan_RSD
January 16th, 2010
1:38 am
Tom O’ Hawke good to see ya again man
Tomahawkin
January 16th, 2010
1:39 am
T-Hawkin is Way F’d up! Blogging at the Spot in Norcross…Gotta Go….
Time To Bump some old Keith Sweat, New Kids On The Block ( Sorry D.O.B. but I like that sh…+)
And some more of Color Me Badd..
wayn-0
January 16th, 2010
1:42 am
trade Melky to the Tigers, they need someone for all 3 OF spots & it opens up $3 Mil & you definitely won’t hear any Tigers/Damon rumors anymore. I like him much better especially with Schafer & Heyward coming up – good vet. to have around for those guys!!!
Tom O'Hawke
January 16th, 2010
1:45 am
Tom O’ Hawke good to see ya again man
Hey, “statman”, how ya doin’? I’ve been keeping an eye on you. (I’d rather read figures, than letters)
uga-brave
January 16th, 2010
1:45 am
speaking of westerns, lets go.
outlaw josey wales
tombstone
high plains drifter
unforgiven
the good the bad and rosie odonell
butch cassidy and sundance
the wild bunch
high noon
pale rider
and the shootist, would of put the searchers in the last spot but heck the shootist was the duke’s last movie.
so there is a top ten, in somewhat of a decent order.
uga-brave
January 16th, 2010
1:49 am
jjj, not much of colbert fan, however i do find bill maher on hbo entertaining.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
1:51 am
I don’t think I could come up with a top 25 in westerns UGA. Shane,Once Upon A Time In The west,My Darling Clementine, Oxbow Incident, Stagecoach-Wayne version,The Searchers, Ride The High Country,Dances With Wolves,Cat Ballou,Return Of a Man Called Horse, etc etc added to yours
Tom O'Hawke
January 16th, 2010
1:52 am
nolie, just sayin’ we can twist it around any which way we want about almost every ballplayer over the last two decades no matter how guilty or not any of them individually are
—- Braveheart
I agree. However, that does give us a better appreciation of some of the older players, especially the Braves’ Warren Spahn (363 victories, 382 complete games) and Henry Aaron (don’t get me started!).
Braves_Fan_RSD
January 16th, 2010
1:53 am
Hey, “statman”, how ya doin’? I’ve been keeping an eye on you. (I’d rather read figures, than letters)
I hear ya man however i post most of those at that other site just too hard to keep the flow of a convo here lol.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
1:53 am
I guess on most days I would rate The Wild Bunch first.
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 16th, 2010
1:54 am
Jeff Bridges was on Conan tonight, yesterday.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
1:54 am
Is the other site broken into topics, RSD?
Braves_Fan_RSD
January 16th, 2010
1:56 am
Is the other site broken into topics, RSD?
Yes makes convos much easier to follow
N8
January 16th, 2010
1:57 am
I’ve stated many times that had I had a vote in 96 for NL Cy Young, it would have went to Kevin Brown over Smoltz. Smoltz had a great year, and his great TEAM won most of his starts, which is impressive. I think with the post-season and the all-star game, he won 30 games that year. Definitely worthy of high praise.
But Kevin Brown was the more dominant pitcher that year, on not such a good team.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
1:59 am
Yes makes convos much easier to follow RSD
it does, but I like the free-flow of an open board like this one. I’m on one that gives the option and I chose to open it up. But then I’m kinda a gadfly, I love responding to a baseball stat post and then a movie of music one. To each his own
Braves_Fan_RSD
January 16th, 2010
2:05 am
it does, but I like the free-flow of an open board like this one. I’m on one that gives the option and I chose to open it up. But then I’m kinda a gadfly, I love responding to a baseball stat post and then a movie of music one. To each his own
Oh yeah I read just about every comment on the blog here and respond to the ones I want to lol
I love this blog DOB is great love his KMA attitude toward some of the dumb@s$e$ on here and doesnt take any crap lol. Just when Im trying to post stats i take too long because I verify from many different sites and usually do long analysis lol and on here sometimes if the person you have responded to isnt here and never sees it and it just feels empty lol. Yes some others may respond but usually my posts are directed at a certian individual that others can discuss. Oh well guess Im picky. I read this everyday just respond sparatically when I feel compelled to, or if Im asking DOB a direct question.
Braves_Fan_RSD
January 16th, 2010
2:08 am
For example earlier when darren was on here and he said Diaz/McLouth/Melky worst OF in baseball I went through ewvery team and found their depth chart then took those three’s last year stats and came up with their AVG/OBP/SLG/OPS but by the time I had done all the research he was gone and the convo was dead Oh well lol
nolie
January 16th, 2010
2:11 am
yeah you can lose a poster here sometimes no doubt. I just get kinda bored having to stick to one subject. and eventually many of the regulars go back to find anything directed to them. I verify any stats I post too, but usually with only one site. unless it involves several proprietary stats.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
2:12 am
I’m not usually ambitious enough to do what you gave as an example.
Braves_Fan_RSD
January 16th, 2010
2:15 am
Oh its not just one subject nolie right now we have 32 active discussions that have been posted to in the last week its kind of like here just you open the thread that your comment pertains to and post it there. Cool thing is it will take you to the last post you read in the thread, it will also let you quote with the push of a button, you can multi quote many users, and no html is necessary you want something bolded just press bold i really like it lol
uga-brave
January 16th, 2010
2:16 am
n8, no doubt brown was completely nasty. no argument from anyone that watched him pitch.
to many uzr, ubr’s whatever. watch a nasty pitcher that throws a heavy ball.
Tom O'Hawke
January 16th, 2010
2:19 am
nolie & Braves_Fan_RSD
You’ve convinced me. There is probably room for both!
nolie
January 16th, 2010
2:21 am
no doubt Tom
nolie
January 16th, 2010
2:22 am
is that a hint that you are getting tired of this thread??
nolie
January 16th, 2010
2:23 am
you better stick with the open format Tom
Tom O'Hawke
January 16th, 2010
2:26 am
is that a hint that you are getting tired of this thread??
nolie, you are one perceptive son-of-a-b….
uga-brave
January 16th, 2010
2:28 am
funny thing if you even type in you know who’s name they flag you.
o.k. for all the long time atlanta jouranl constitution readers like myself.
here goes another top ten.
jesse outlar
lewis grizzard {and his dog catfish}
mark schlbach ( georgia guy)
david o’ brien, the espn guy.
in all seriousness dave, you are the “wild bunch” of westerns. you are in the eye of the beholder.
seriously, you are involved and you definetely make it fun around here.
you know when to give it and take it, always enjoyable.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
2:30 am
Grizzard was awesome
uga-brave
January 16th, 2010
2:36 am
anybody want a german shepherd? got fritz the dog, and sasha. fritz, is close to 13. about nine months ago i thought he was done. the vet gave him anti-inflams and he is ok, not great.
actually you would have to pry these two dog out of my wifes hands.
Tom O'Hawke
January 16th, 2010
2:36 am
Hey Braves_Fan_RSD , I see on your other site that you are currently only givng the Braves a 19.1% chance of making the playoffs. 4 teams make the playoffs, from the NL, out of 16. That’s 1 in 4, or 25%. If everything is equal, all teams would have a 25% chance of making the playoffs (in the NL). So, are you saying, that right now, you think that the Braves’ chances of making the playoffs, are that much less than equal?
uga-brave
January 16th, 2010
2:37 am
nolie. ever read any of his books?
uga-brave
January 16th, 2010
2:39 am
nolie,
DOB, LEWIS GRIZZARD polar opposites.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
2:39 am
nope, just his columns UGA, but I enjoyed them
Braves_Fan_RSD
January 16th, 2010
2:40 am
Hey Braves_Fan_RSD , I see on your other site that you are currently only givng the Braves a 19.1% chance of making the playoffs. 4 teams make the playoffs, from the NL, out of 16. That’s 1 in 4, or 25%. If everything is equal, all teams would have a 25% chance of making the playoffs (in the NL). So, are you saying, that right now, you think that the Braves’ chances of making the playoffs, are that much less than equal? TOM O’HAWKE
I don’t remember posting that what was the date of that post and in what thread?
nolie
January 16th, 2010
2:43 am
According to ESPN.com following is what the deal turned out to be.
Among free agents, first baseman Adam LaRoche and Arizona finalized a one-year contract that guarantees him $6 million. LaRoche gets $4.5 million this year, and the deal includes a $7.5 million mutual option for 2011 with a $1.5 million buyout. LaRoche receives the buyout if either side declines, and if he gets traded the option price would increase to $9.5 million.
Braves_Fan_RSD
January 16th, 2010
2:43 am
Tom O’Hawke the only thing I remember was coming up with a projection formula to estimate the number of wins for any team by taking Bill James projections and their career UZR/150 and putting it into MLB.COM’s xW-L formula it would also work for trades and right now it projects us to be 94 – 68 which I would have to say is much better than 19.1%
nolie
January 16th, 2010
2:46 am
remember that 94-68 number and let’s see if it is in the ballpark at the end of the season.
Braves_Fan_RSD
January 16th, 2010
2:50 am
remember that 94-68 number and let’s see if it is in the ballpark at the end of the season.
Yeah thats based on the projections but say for Example Glaus went down in ST and was replaced by Eric Hinske for the entire season and Mitch Jones replaced him on the bench we drop to 89 – 73
Tom O'Hawke
January 16th, 2010
2:53 am
Braves_Fan_RSD
Ha, ha … It wasn’t until you asked me about it, that I went back to copy & paste this: “Realistically what are our chances for the post season?
Posted By Braves_Fan_RSD
Braves now 19.1% chance to get into playoffs!”
Ahhh, what I failed to see the first time is the date of this. You posted this on Sept. 27th. In retrospect, your 19.1% chance of the Braves making the playoffs, now seem a tad high.
Braves_Fan_RSD
January 16th, 2010
2:54 am
Tom O’Hawke yeah that was when we were in the playoff race last season lol
nolie
January 16th, 2010
2:58 am
I think they are all too high RSD, but I understand the premise. I just think it will be interesting to see. That’s the kinda stuff that piques my interest even though I am skeptical of most stats beyond OPS+ or ERA+
.I don’t know how you are figuring it, but it seems to me that many of those equations add subjective thought back in, for instance the concept of what makes a replacement player, . Bill James WinShares had a cheat factor built in IIRC. If you didn’t like the way the equation turned out on a player you could change a variable. At least I think I remember that from when it first came out, but any system that put Biggio in the top 50players of all time which I’m pretty sure it did, wouldn’t impress me at all.
uga-brave
January 16th, 2010
2:59 am
nolie, lewis and bartkowski used to hang out at the old peachtree cafe. the southern mafia. dont see lewis hanging out at little five points.
loved grizzards columns. he was never politicaly correct. he was a southern gentleman. bay area he drank more bourbon, chased more skirts then anyone could of imagined. great pair of gucchi loafers.
Braves_Fan_RSD
January 16th, 2010
3:07 am
nolie its very basic accounting for runs+ basically the number of runs produced or saved in comparison to runs given up
((RS^1.82)/((RS^1.82)+((RA+56+(UZR/150*-1))^1.82)))*162
if that makes any sense to you lol
Tom O'Hawke
January 16th, 2010
3:11 am
“Tom O – I thought I changed names – damn!” (12:23)
—- Venice Jim , (I know you’ll see this eventually)
Don’t worry about it. I have the same problem with my buddy’s kid (The Real Bobby, aka T.R.B. or TRB). If my buddy decides to contribute to the blog, then I have a third!.
“I am and idiot…” (12:23)
—– Venice Jim
NOW, you should worry.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
3:11 am
I understand equations guy, I do have a Masters in Psych which requires a good bit of stat, but I don’t claim to be an expert at it. Where is the 1.82 from?
uga-brave
January 16th, 2010
3:11 am
nate is the key. gotta hunch he will rake.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
3:16 am
UGA a 20-20 guy who gets on base 35+% of the time is an asset in CF no doubt.
Braves_Fan_RSD
January 16th, 2010
3:16 am
1.82 is from the xW-L formula from mlb.com “Expected won-loss record based on runs scored and runs allowed, using this formula: RS^1.82/((RS^1.82)+(RA^1.82))”
I just tweaked it a little more to allow for projections like the number 56 is the average number of unearned runs given up by ML teams each season over the last 3 seasons. I also based the UZR/150 based on the actual games played then had to multiply it by -1 so that it added to the runs given up.
and I wasn’t questioning your knowledge of stats but more or less my gibberish way of simplifying things lol
Tom O'Hawke
January 16th, 2010
3:18 am
nolie its very basic accounting for runs+ basically the number of runs produced or saved in comparison to runs given up
((RS^1.82)/((RS^1.82)+((RA+56+(UZR/150*-1))^1.82)))*162
if that makes any sense to you lol
RSD, not only does it make sense, to me, I can also correct it! You, really, should have a comma, after nolie.
Braves_Fan_RSD
January 16th, 2010
3:18 am
the reason I had to get the avg unearned runs is because Bill james only projects innings pitched and ERA not total runs given up by a pitcher so unearned runs were unaccounted for when I took ERA and innings pitched to project earned runs given up.
Braves_Fan_RSD
January 16th, 2010
3:19 am
lmao Tom O’Hawke way to stay alert!
P. Bull Terrier
January 16th, 2010
3:21 am
Maddox is 1st ballot – no question. Glavine should be 1st ballot, but won’t be because there will be enough voters who don’t want to elect two Braves pitchers at the same time. In Atlanta, we’d love to see that happen, but in the rest of the country, the same kind of dumb logic that will keep Maddox from getting 100% of the vote will keep Glavine waiting for an extra year.
I could see it working out like this:
2013 – Maddox in, Glavine a few votes short.
2014 – Smoltz is eligible and sneaks in on the 1st ballot, Glavine loses a few votes from last year.
2015 – Not wanting to make it 3 Braves in a row, voters keep Glavine out again.
2016 – Voters finally throw open the gates to the cheaters and steroid boys. Headed to the Hall, Bonds, McGwire, Sosa, and even Rose. Sorry no room for Glavine in this crowd.
2017 – In a quiet year, Glavine finally gets what he deserved in 2013.
Braves_Fan_RSD
January 16th, 2010
3:23 am
nolie anyway to improve this formula I am all ears i tweak it anytime I see something that can improve it I think this is draft 13 lol
nolie
January 16th, 2010
3:24 am
thanx for the explanation my man. I gotta look into that original formula I guess. I was way more into stats than the average scout, but I gotta admit that my background also makes me somewhat skeptical of the advanced ones that purport to determine things like team W/L records since there are so many unforeseen possibilities and even the foreseeable ones have so many possible variations.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
3:27 am
P Bull not so sure Smoltz gets in on first ballot.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
3:28 am
I think maybe we need to apply Chaos Theory to it all.
Braves_Fan_RSD
January 16th, 2010
3:31 am
I think maybe we need to apply Chaos Theory to it all.
If you know how to apply it and would feel fine in doing it I could email you my spreadsheet with the stats and formulas.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
3:32 am
OK i am doing a BAS again, talking to myself. Time to go do something constructive I guess.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
3:34 am
no I don’t know how to apply it, I was just being facetious. I just think it is pretty chaotic with all the many possibilities. Maybe Braveheart knows how.
Braves_Fan_RSD
January 16th, 2010
3:35 am
oh ok lol ive never researched Chaos Theory so I wouldn’t know where to start
N8
January 16th, 2010
3:36 am
From the other blog:
“Now I see why N8 gets so darn pessimistic in the summer. He’s so overly optimistic during the offseason, there’s no way they’ll ever measure up.” Braveheart
I don’t think I’m being that optimistic about this team. I’m simply asking for the lineup to be average. EVERYBODY in the lineup, including Chipper and Glaus. If that happens, and this team has good health, things will work out well.
My main gripes during the season, have more to do with Bobby and some of his decisions. Good players can have down years. It’s up to the manager to not play favorites, and put the team in the best situation to win games. If that means getting a struggling Chipper Jones out of the 3-hole for a few weeks, then so be it.
If Chipper starts 2010 the way he ended 2009, and Cox leaves him there, I can tell you right now, I’ll bitch about it. As should you. If a guy in the bullpen continues to get lit up night after night, he should NOT be the first option (or an option at all).
Not on this team. Not with this budget. When the team was stacked, and no team in the NL East could keep up, Cox had the luxury of sitting on his hands letting things work themselves out. This team doesn’t have that luxury. The hot guys need to play, the cold guys need to sit, or at the very least, be dropped in the order.
So yeah. If Glaus is clearly not healthy and Freeman is tearing up minor league pitching, I’d expect him to get the call. Or give Crash Jones some AB’s. Perhaps Hinske. If KK struggles out of the gate again, Medlen should get a shot (provided he’s pitching alright).
Case in point, my gripe about Jeffy stinking it up had less to do with Jeff and his ability, than it had to do with Wren and Bobby waiting until they did, to do something about it.
I’m just curious how things could have been different last year, had Bobby had the balls to make some ballsy moves earlier in the year, rather than let his “guys” work it out. Clearly there could have been a handful more wins early in the year with some of those guys out of the lineup not killing rallies (KJ, Jeff etc…)
Optimistic? I don’t know about that. I just go into each year with certain expectations (that aren’t out of line, imo), for certain guys. When that doesn’t happen, sure. I’ll gripe with the best of them.
I expect smart baseball. Smart managing. And will always give guys recovering from injury the benefit of the doubt until it’s proved otherwise.
If Wagner, Glaus, Saito and McLouth claim to be healthy going into the year, and the Braves medical staff deems them to be, who am I to say they aren’t?
If Glaus and Chipper are healthy in 2010, I expect 20-25 HR from each and an OPS in the ballpark of .900 from them. Is that to much to ask from a former HR leader, and arguably one of the greatest switch-hitters in MLB history?
At some point, Yunel needs to take the next step. Why not 2010? If not, what he provided in 2009 will be just fine.
Prado might not ever be a 20 HR guy, but he should be a 50-60 XBH guy over a full season, and play adequate defense at 2B. He appears to have a better approach than KJ did/does. So why shouldn’t I expect his numbers last year to carry over in 2010 over a full season?
Melky and Diaz (provided Damon isn’t signed), should provide AT LEAST what Loaf provided, while giving us better defense, for sure when Melky is in there.
McLouth is what he is. He’s a guy that if he plays around 150 games will have 20-25 HR, a .265ish average, and score around a 100 runs with 20+ SB, while playing above average defense in CF.
Heyward? Who knows? Could be Schaferish. Could be like Francoeur when he first came up. Either way, from all accounts, he WILL play excellent defense, run the bases well, and give the team some much needed speed overall.
Wagner? If healthy, he’ll be as reliable (if not more than) either Soriano or Gonzo was out there. If not healthy, Saito can step in nicely (provided he’s healthy and not over-used).
Rotation? I think Hudson has a monster season. This might be the only spot where I’m being silly with optimism. But if healthy, I expect him to provide us with similar results that Vazquez gave us, with perhaps a slightly higher ERA (3.50 or so). But quality starts, innings and the basic theory of giving the team a chance to win more often than not, seem likely.
Lowe? I think he’ll be fine. Maybe not. But it’s not like he completely sucked in 2009. Just might not be worth 15 million. But I also expect a motivated Derek Lowe in 2010.
KK? I think the guy that pitched very well from May to August as a starter, is what we’ll get. Stamina is his biggest issue. But face facts. He’ll be our 5th starter. Period.
JJJ. Dude gets so little credit. Both from Braves fans and national media. Bonified top of the rotation guy. What’s not to like?
Hanson. I expect some ups and downs as he has to adjust to hitters seeing him more often. But I don’t think 15 wins and a 3.50 ERA is too much to ask. With some rough outings mixed in with pure brilliance.
Like I said earlier today. We might improve as a team and drop off in the standings if the Mets and Phillies (even the Marlins with Josh getting locked up and none of their big guns traded away just yet), improve as well. I expect the Mets to show up.
But no question in my mind that if this team avoids big injuries in spring training, that we break camp in MUCH better shape than the team that broke camp in 2009.
THAT, I’m optimistic about.
Tom O'Hawke
January 16th, 2010
3:40 am
1.82 is from the xW-L formula from mlb.com “Expected won-loss record based on runs scored and runs allowed, using this formula: RS^1.82/((RS^1.82)+(RA^1.82))”
Braves_Fan_RSD , I’m not asking you to do anymore work, but based on this, I gotta believe when the Diamondbacks won their division, a few years back (2007?), that screwed this formula up, royally.
Tom O'Hawke
January 16th, 2010
3:43 am
I’m gonna die soon. Any chance anyone can paraphrase N8’s 3:36 post for me?
Braves_Fan_RSD
January 16th, 2010
3:45 am
Braves_Fan_RSD , I’m not asking you to do anymore work, but based on this, I gotta believe when the Diamondbacks won their division, a few years back (2007?), that screwed this formula up, royally.
Yeah they won 11 games more than expected one of the few outliers with this formula it is usually accurate to +/-5 games
Braves_Fan_RSD
January 16th, 2010
3:46 am
but Tom O’ Hawke mine is nowhere near that accurate cause it is based on what could happen and projections not what has already happened
nolie
January 16th, 2010
3:51 am
while playing above average defense in CF N8
just to be nitpicky, Nate is not an above average CFer. he lacks a bit of range.and his total fielding runs above average is negative.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
3:54 am
formula it is usually accurate to +/-5 games
not to be a smart a@@ which I sometimes wanna be, but to me +/- 5 games is an awful big spread, I do not see that as accurate enough to be reliable except after the fact.
Braves_Fan_RSD
January 16th, 2010
3:54 am
on a +/-5 games scale it is 92% accurate from all the data I could find
nolie
January 16th, 2010
3:55 am
I’m not asking you to do anymore work, but based on this, I gotta believe when the Diamondbacks won their division, a few years back (2007?), that screwed this formula up, royally. Tom
yeah that old Greek geek Pythagoras took one in the chops there.
Braves_Fan_RSD
January 16th, 2010
3:56 am
yes it is but its the best I have found so far lol
Braves_Fan_RSD
January 16th, 2010
3:57 am
Which i agree its not meant to say yes this is what will happen because
1. Every stat put into the formula is a projection
2. it is a pretty big spread but I have found nothing smaller as of yet which is why I keep tweaking it lol
Tom O'Hawke
January 16th, 2010
3:58 am
but Tom O’ Hawke mine is nowhere near that accurate cause it is based on what could happen and projections not what has already happened
Braves_Fan_RSD , it’s tough enough to find a numerical system that is accurate in hindsight, much less in foresight. The fun before the season starts, is making predictions. Some of us use head smarts, or heart smarts. A lot of times, it’s a combination of both. I like stats, along with the other two. You have the stats-department, down to a science. Yeah, they can always change, from hour to hour, but I think they’re more accurate in predicting, than anything else. (except for nolie’s aunt with the crystal ball)
nolie
January 16th, 2010
3:59 am
yeah but +/- 5 games makes a huge difference in a season. if it projects as say 90 wins that really translates to between 85 to 95 and even that is only 92% certain. I mean that is the difference between 1st and 3rd more or less. I’m really not trying to be difficult with you, just expressing the way I see it. the odds of a more useful +/- 2 games would be way lower I imagine.
Braves_Fan_RSD
January 16th, 2010
3:59 am
it is in very primitive stages right now lol VERY lol just was made for the fun of it but the more I tweak it the more I like it, even though the entire thing is projection based.
Braves_Fan_RSD
January 16th, 2010
4:01 am
yeah but +/- 5 games makes a huge difference in a season. if it projects as say 90 wins that really translates to between 85 to 95 and even that is only 92% certain. I mean that is the difference between 1st and 3rd more or less. I’m really not trying to be difficult with you, just expressing the way I see it. the odds of a more useful +/- 2 games would be way lower I imagine.
I totally agree but right now thats as accurate as I have found it but I keep working with it lol
nolie
January 16th, 2010
4:02 am
hey don’t get me wrong I am not hassling you about your formula in any way, just the concept of any formula with that much leeway puzzles me, whether it is yours or MLBs or Bill James. I’m really just trying to get a better feel for it.
N8
January 16th, 2010
4:02 am
OK nolie. Then let me rephrase. An outfield of Melky in LF, McLouth in CF, and Heyward in RF will be considerably better, and cover more range than an OF of Loaf in LF, McLouth in CF, and Diaz/Church was in RF, while we were winning a ton of games after the Church/Francoeur trade.
How’s that?
Tom O’Hawke, I’ll paraphrase for you…
I think the Braves will be a good team in 2010, with a chance to be better than the 2009 team. I think the team we will field on opening day 2010 will be significantly better from man 1 through man 25 than the team that started the 2009 campaign. While acknowledging that if we have any major injuries (Chipper, Glaus, Hudson, etc….) the team could struggle.
My 3:36 just detailed by position, what I expect and why I think it’s reasonable to expect decent production.
Braves_Fan_RSD
January 16th, 2010
4:04 am
not at all nolie I appreciate your input if we didn’t poke holes in everything nothing would advance
nolie
January 16th, 2010
4:06 am
I think they are better too Nate iffen they stay healthy, you know I just hafta get pedantic about details every so often. Good post really.
Braves_Fan_RSD
January 16th, 2010
4:15 am
Tom O’ Hawke been a pleasure as usual and nolie great to finally have a in-depth convo with you if either of you would like to discuss something please feel free to email @ shane@shanespcrepair.com (small business I own) but I have to get to bed lol been a pleasure guys!
Tom O'Hawke
January 16th, 2010
4:41 am
Tom O’Hawke, I’ll paraphrase for you…
Thanks, Nate, but I was only kidding. I actually read your post. I can speed-read. I took the Eveln Woode, uh… Ebelyn Wood, uhh … Evelyn Would, (damn it) …. I took a course!
I appreciate your optimism. I hope you’re right!
nolie
January 16th, 2010
4:42 am
nite Shane, nite Tom
Tom O'Hawke
January 16th, 2010
4:47 am
While acknowledging that if we have any major injuries (Chipper, Glaus, Hudson, etc….) the team could struggle.
Nate, is there a team that can’t say this?
Tom O’ Hawke been a pleasure as usual
Braves_Fan_RSD , you too, buddy. If I’m not writing, I’ll be reading.
N8
January 16th, 2010
4:50 am
nolie. I know. Just giving you crap. You know I appreciate your insight. You also know that I give it the old “eye test” when it comes to defense, as opposed to all the defensive stats. And while McLouth probably was not worthy of his GG a couple years back, I think he generally plays pretty decent out there.
Tom O’Hawke, I figured you did, and appreciate your sarcasm. But I like to show that every now and then, I can paraphrase my own posts. Call it a lesson in short-windedness. LOL. I wish I could be one of those one sentence posters. Just not in my nature, I guess.
Good night all. Done working for the evening and need to catch some much needed z’s.
N8
January 16th, 2010
4:58 am
“Nate, is there a team that can’t say this?” Tom O’Hawke
No, there isn’t. But after being accused of being a homer (how dareth anybody deprive me of my negativity?), earlier in the day, I almost feel obligated to have a disclamor acknowledging that this team could be in trouble if things don’t go perfectly.
To me, it depends on who the injuries would happen to. If it’s an outfielder, we’ve got the other half of the Diaz/Melky platoon that is surely capable of stepping in full time if needed, or even Schafer.
If it’s Prado, Infante could help. If it’s Chipper, Prado could move over. Same goes for Glaus. But if Glaus and Chipper are healthy and “their old selves”, Prado isn’t really capable of providing what they can at the top of their game. But he’s certainly capable of being an upgrade over KJ.
I suppose, since he’s arguably our best hitter, the most devistating injury of all would be McCann. Ross is a fine backup, but certainly not Mac if he had to play everyday.
Hinske fits in nice as a short-term replacement as well. We have depth. But the strength of that depth is in short bursts and in the ability to give the regulars regular rest. If Hinske or Infante are forced into everday action, that not only weakens the everyday lineup (as projected – perhaps it’s that it ends up that Hinske is a better option than Glaus if not healthy?), but it also weakens the bench.
Just not a wide margin for error, if you will. But yeah. If the Cardinals lose Pujols, they’re in trouble. But if the Yankees lose Tex…. not so much. Plenty of firepower to make up the difference for a short while.
That’s all I meant. See? I just can’t do the short posts.
NOW, I’m going to bed.
Tom O'Hawke
January 16th, 2010
4:59 am
Good night all. Done working for the evening and need to catch some much needed z’s.
—— N8
I couldn’t have said that better. I have surgery to perform at 8:00am. I told my staff, that this time, I would get more sleep and have less beers. If I pour out what’s remaining, and then fall asleep within 3 minutes, I’ll keep my promise.
Goodnight, nolie, N8 & Shane.
Mitchie-san
January 16th, 2010
7:40 am
Apparently the moderator or DOB is a KISS fan.
Robert
January 16th, 2010
7:43 am
OK David, I’ve done the math. Before the winter meetings Wren was looking to upgrade the offense and shed starting pitching. Braves fans were informed the team could not sign both Gonzo and Soriano nor could they afford LaRoche. A solid starting pitcher was traded to free up cap room and we received if’s and potential in return. It appears a little over 50 mil was dropped at season’s end. So far we have added around 30, including arb. Gonzo and Soriano will earn around 13 mil this year. The Braves will spend over 10 on 2 pitchers over 38 years of age as replacements. Combine the stats of the four from last year. Money well spent? 1B. LaRoche just signed for 4.5 mil with an option. You mean to tell me he would not have taken around the same to stay in Atl? We keep being told Freeman will be ready by 2011. That’s a lot to ask. The risk of signing Adam for 2 years and Freeman being ready by mid 11 would not have been a bad thing. I can’t understand this thought process. I think the worst thing we the fans are hearing is the lack of communication between management and the players. The Glavine situation. Lowe making his comments. It’s alarming talk coming from such a proud franchise. Bloggers can say the what if’s and the next years every day but what is real is in black and white. Rushing team transactions to make the headlines won’t improve this team. This team is fading from grace. Unless a creative GM is hired soon the damage will take years to correct. Wonder how will be picked to suceed Cox? Large hire needing careful consideration. Any bets Chipper walks at season’s end because he won’t be playing for Bobby anymore?
David O'Brien
January 16th, 2010
7:46 am
P. Bull Terrier: Regarding your 3:21 a.m. post, you really think it’ll take five tries to vote in a 305-game winner with two Cy Young Awards, five 20-win seasons, six top-three Cy Young finishes, and 10 All-Star selections?
No way. At least I can’t see that. I think he’s a first-ballot selection. And as for selecting two Braves pitchers in one year, as you suggest will be a problem for voters — I don’t really think it’ll be an issue. Besides, some voters will think of Maddux as a multi-team pitcher as much as they’ll think of him as a “Braves pitcher.”
But with these particular two pitchers, I don’t think it’ll be an issue anyway. Might even make it easier for some voters to put both of them down, a send them-into-the-Hall-together sort of thing. But again, you’re talking about a pair of 300-game winners, so it shouldn’t matter.
JasonInFL
January 16th, 2010
8:04 am
If Tom Glavine doesn’t get in on the first try, I will lose all hope in the current system.
dap01
January 16th, 2010
8:06 am
Johnny Damon would be great.
I want to have Glavine in a major decision making capacity for the Braves. He is a winner.
Same for Smoltz.
Mid Town Joe
January 16th, 2010
8:15 am
I just read most of this new bloggage backwards, and for some reason it made me think of the Seinfeld episode which started at the end and went in reverse.
Considering the many players who’ve been screwed with by the HOF voters, I will not be surprised if any of the Brave’s hurlers don’t make it on the 1st ballot. This would expose this farce of subjectivity.
Going to be a good day for the NFL. Great games today.
Braveheart
January 16th, 2010
8:30 am
No way Glavine doesn’t get in on the first try. Maddux and Glavine are first ballot guys. Smoltz likely ain’t a first ballot guy
njbraves
January 16th, 2010
9:19 am
Anyone who thinks Glavine won’t get in first ballot is crazy. 300 game winner, 2 Cy’s , and 5 20 win seasons!! Get a clue.
Eric from MO
January 16th, 2010
9:25 am
Nolie I was thinking the same thing as you at 3:57. 10 games is big difference. If you told me to pick a win total for each team and I had to be within 5 games, I dont think it would be that hard. You could probably guess 26 out of 30. Always a few suprises.
ugaaccountant
January 16th, 2010
9:40 am
I think Greg Maddux should go in unanimously and have one of the biggest displays in the entire building. He dominated his era in a way that no more than 5 or 10 players in history have done. There is no standard by which a voter could make a case against him.
Glavine and Smoltz are more your run of the mill inductees. Better than a Jim Rice, sure, but I can’t put them as more accomplished than Johnson, Clemens, or Pedro. All 5 will eventually get in, but I figure there will be some interesting votes when all of these guys are eligible around the same time period.
jay blaisdell
January 16th, 2010
9:41 am
New Topic: Whither Jordan Schafer this winter ? Re-habbing ? Resting ? Playing any Winter Ball ?
In Atlanta by mid-summer ? I know Bobby Cox loves him.
ugaaccountant
January 16th, 2010
9:51 am
“Tom O’Hawke
While acknowledging that if we have any major injuries (Chipper, Glaus, Hudson, etc….) the team could struggle.
Nate, is there a team that can’t say this? ”
Yes, there are a few teams that could say that.
Most high payroll teams could have 1 major injury and still be perfectly fine. Look how the Dodgers were when they lost Manny for several months they could plug in Juan Pierre in his lineup spot and be perfectly fine.
Or if they are a high payroll team they can trade for an overpriced replacement without giving up much from their farm system. The Braves couldn’t just take on a Magglio Ordonez type fill-in, but the Yankees would if they needed to.
Also a team like the Marlins or Rays or Rangers are so stacked in the minors that they just keep calling up players that adequately replace whatever they are losing. It’s been happening for them on an ongoing basis for a long time.
The Braves are most similar to the farm system teams. We could withstand an injury or 2 in the outfield or 1 starting pitcher or a couple of relievers. Our problem would be if there was an infield or catcher injury, that would result on us relying on a decent but well below average player in Infante/Ross/Hinske. Those are really good players for their salary, but they wouldn’t adequately fill the shoes of who they would be reaplacing.
TommyP
January 16th, 2010
10:00 am
Of course Maddux and Glavine get in on the first try and they’ll do it with 95%+ votes. Like DOB said, there’s also no chance either will be a unanimous selection. It’s pretty much the “Babe Ruth clause” that some writers refer to when voting in someone on a first ballot. “If Babe Ruth wasn’t unanimous, nobody should ever be a unanimous selection.” I believe Seaver set the record for highest % and then Ripken broke that. I think.
DOB: This might be old news to you now but I figured you (and many others on here that discussed the Tenn/Kiffin saga) might find interest in Lane Kiffin’s “pre-presser” at UT. Great stuff.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7dbNBd4S8II
David O'Brien
January 16th, 2010
10:20 am
Jay Blaisdell: Schafer spent first part of winter with cast on, so winter ball was out. Couldn’t play, doctor’s orders. Got cast off in December and all’s going well, last I checked. I was planning to call him this week to get an update, but I’m pretty sure he’s already started hitting and should be ready to go for spring training.
David O'Brien
January 16th, 2010
10:22 am
Braveheart, njbrave, TommyP: Agree with you and others on Glavine — he’s first-ballot guy, and to me it’s obvious, too. He and Maddux go in together, and it’ll be quite a weekend in Cooperstown, with a whole lot of Braves fans I would hope.
JC form UT
January 16th, 2010
10:23 am
Sorry if missed it but is there any word on who has been invited to spring traing?
Also is the make up of the bullpen complete? could FW go after Kiko Calero, Ron Mahay or even bring Will Ohman back? Or will luis Valdez get a shot of making the team ?
David O'Brien
January 16th, 2010
10:27 am
TommyP, that’s first time I’ve seen that. That is hilarious. Great stuff.
reagan
January 16th, 2010
10:29 am
Uga-brave (inre you 2:28 post)……..don’t forget rod Hudspeth.
When Hank Aaron talks...people listen...
January 16th, 2010
10:29 am
AJC and DOB…
Back to being the best blog on BASEBALL…in Baseball…
Thanks…
The Hammer…
BELIEVE
Rock On......
January 16th, 2010
10:43 am
Hate to see what happened to LaRoche but I guess when you play the free agent game you don’t always win. I guess it is a hindsight thing but if the Braves had known they could have had LaRoche so cheap for 1 year with an option Glaus and his fear-of-the-unknown at 1st base would never have happened. I gonna give Glaus a great chance of being a big producer this year but I still would plant a horseshoe under 1st base. Seriously.
RSD….forget all the cyber-metrics stuff and go with the laymens Rule of 64 dude. You will be glad you did. Makes the game runs analysis much easier to digest.
Rule of “64″ figures like this, if a team scores 6+ runs they win 80% of the time, if they score less than 4 they lose about 60% of the time, if they score 2 or fewer they lose 80% of the time. Scoring 4-5 runs is a crap shoot depending on the bullpen etc. to eak out the victories in any given year. For instance last year toward the tail-end of the year I reviewed every game and teh number of runs scored and allowed and the Braves fared negative against the under 4 runs scored version of the “rule” even with the great pitching. They were a slight plus (I think it was 84% win rate when they scored 6+. You can’t use averages either like ERA or average runs scored. It has to be actual runs per game. Simply amazing how accurate over baseball history this stat is. If you have great pitching and bullpen the slogan should be “just score 4″, if great hitting and weaker pitching “get 6 with the sticks”.
Rock on…….bottom line is you will never beat the rule of 64 unless you score 4.
Braveheart
January 16th, 2010
10:44 am
It would have been cool if Ted, Cox, Schuerholz, Maddux, Glavine, Smoltz, Skip and Pete all could have gone in together. Those 8 were the defining figures of that run. Cooperstown wouldn’t know what hit them. Chipper will get in first ballot someday. It’s too bad Murphy and McGriff will likely fall short, and that Mazzone, Justice and Andruw sputtered out. Would be nice if the Hall would find more of a place to celebrate unsung front office types like Paul Snyder. It’s still way early, but maybe McCann becomes a HOFer someday.
jay blaisdell
January 16th, 2010
10:49 am
Whither Jordan Schafer this Winter ? Re-habbing ? Resting ? Playing any Winter Ball ? Up with the Braves by mid-summer ? I know Bobby Cox loves the kid.
Rock On......
January 16th, 2010
11:00 am
Enter your comments here
Rock On......
January 16th, 2010
11:00 am
damn I hate when I do that……
jim
January 16th, 2010
11:02 am
Which of the following did NOT make the Hall of fame on the first ballot?
Paul Molitor
Warren Spahn
Kirby Puckett
Joe DiMaggio
Jackie Robinson
Robin Roberts
Stan Musial
Steve from OH
January 16th, 2010
11:15 am
Did anyone see that the Yankees offered Montero straight-up for Roy Halladay? I mean, I think Montero is gonna be a star someday, but from Toronto’s perspective I don’t think you can justify doing a straight-up swap like that…
O.J.
January 16th, 2010
11:22 am
jay blaisdell, how many times are you going to ask that?
Poorbrave
January 16th, 2010
11:42 am
TommyP that was great on Kiffin Press meeting. What a joke…funny.
dogsbrekky
January 16th, 2010
11:50 am
Puckett ??
ugaaccountant
January 16th, 2010
11:54 am
Steve from OH – I didn’t know that offer was out there, and obviously the Jays did better by getting more quality prospects, 2 of whom were also stud variety like Montero. But
A) Montero is a higher rated prospect than anybody the Phillies or Seattle moved in the deal.
Many clubs simply have to be extremely budget concious this year.
B) It’s still a viable offer in today’s market. It’s crazy to see how the payroll outlooks of various teams have changed so much that guys who were discussed as 3yr/30mil guys a few months ago are now 1/5 guys. It’s making agents look like idiots these days, well moreso than normal
C) It’s nearly equivalent to us offering Heyward straight up for Halladay, as I’ve seen Montero as high as #4 on an overall prospect list, behind Strasburg->Heyward->Neftali Feliz. I certainly wouldn’t have been comfortable with the braves offering Heyward for Halladay, but the Yankees and Phillies obviously were capable of extending him long term.
wjones
January 16th, 2010
11:56 am
“(I should add, the only guy I personally saw have a season as dominant as the ones that Maddux produced for the Brave was Kevin Brown in 1996 with the Marlins, when the menacing Brown went 17-11 with a league-best 1.89 ERA, a league-high 16 batters hit by pitches, and a Maddux-ian 0.944 WHIP. God, Brown was nasty.)”
No way I disagree with your assessment of Brown that year, but I would like to point out one thing with the WHIP. The 16 hit batsmen aren’t used in calculating WHIP, as I understand, only hits and walks. That usually isn’t a big deal, but in a case like this, with so many HBP, Brown’s WHIP is a bit artificially low. Not to take anything away from the fact he was dominant, but a HBP has the same effect as a walk, as far as allowing baserunners.
Other random comments:
DiMaggio was the one who didn’t get in on the first ballot, but that is a little misleading. DiMaggio started getting votes BEFORE he was eligible, so officially he wasn’t voted in the first time, but WAS voted in once he had sat out five years. That is something that has never been widely mentioned over the years.
Smoltz has a great reputation as a big-game pitcher, and I see a lot of you put him above Glavine for HOF. But Glavine won almost 100 more games that Smoltz, and Smoltz’s injury history may cause him to miss first ballot status. This is no logical argument for not voting Glavine in on the first ballot, excepting scandal of some kind.
As far as Piazza is concerned, what basis would a person use to deny that he wasn’t one the best players of his time? Feelings? Memories? Instead, look up how he measured up in MVP votes, all-star selections, league leader boards, etc. He was always among the top players every year. Maybe the fact the the Dodgers and Mets were beaten out by other teams every year obscures memories, but he was a great hitter, no matter what position, and arguably the most dominent offensive catcher in the history of baseball. His throwing wasn’t great, but aside from that he was a well-respected catcher as far as calling a game and handling pitchers. Excepting any scandals, I can’t see an arguement for not voting him in first ballot.
China Grove
January 16th, 2010
12:00 pm
DOB,
Great music selection today. My newest ‘favourite’ song – from the lyrics to the musical arrangement, it’s just wonderful.
What are your thoughts on Joe Thurston? There’s a guy we seldom talk about on here. I would definitely like to know what your expectations are of him.
Mid Town Joe
January 16th, 2010
12:02 pm
Hot Prospect, Hotter Car:http://www.minorleaguebaseball.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20100115&content_id=7923278&vkey=news_milb&fext=.jsp
Redstick19
January 16th, 2010
12:06 pm
jay blaisdell: see DOB’s 10:20 a.m. post, take two aspirin, get a good night’s sleep and then proceed to ask the question again in the morning.
Redstick19
January 16th, 2010
12:16 pm
anyone on here think McCann could one day be a 30 home run kind of guy? While I usually consider him more of a contact-type hitter and don’t usually consider him a “power” guy, the dude quitely racks up the RBI and sneaks up on 20-25 homers each year. Thoughts on B-Mac reaching 30 homers?
jim
January 16th, 2010
12:17 pm
Puckett was a first ballot HOFer
C's
January 16th, 2010
12:19 pm
DiMaggio
Burdell
January 16th, 2010
12:20 pm
Puckett was a first rounder.
Robin Roberts and Joe DiMaggio didn’t make it on the first ballot. Roberts just fell short in the first year and made it on the second ballot. DiMaggio took 3 ballots because the writers were backlogged in the 1950’s (too many great names from the 20’s, 30’s were on the ballot).
Tom Waits wears Redwing boots
January 16th, 2010
12:20 pm
N8 @ 3:36-
Exactly. It may or may not work. So, I’m optimistic as well.
Bill M.
January 16th, 2010
12:26 pm
Schaefer was taking batting practice at Turner field this week. They had him on t.v.
jim
January 16th, 2010
12:32 pm
Burdell is right –
DiMaggio first became ellibible for the Hall in ‘53, but between his retirement and his first year of elligibility, the 5-year waiting period was instituted. DiMaggio and one other were grandfathered in under the old rules, but it took three ballots before he was elected.
Spahn’s elligibility was delayed 2 years because he continued to play minor league baseball after his last season in hopes of getting another chance to win those elusive 10 more games to reach the total of Masterson and Alexander. Even though he won 20 or more games 13 times and had more wins than anyone who has pitched since the 1920’s, he only received 83% of the vote.
Steve from OH
January 16th, 2010
12:32 pm
ugaaccoutant–didn’t say it was a bad deal at all, just saying that it didn’t make sense for the Jays. Their system isn’t deep and they needed a bit of quantity too, which I think they got. Now they’ve got a nice pitching prospect and hitting prospect to go along with Travis Snider. Definitely did better than getting just Montero, as much as I like him.
RemoW
January 16th, 2010
12:34 pm
I can’t imagine Glavine not going in on the first ballet. Sorry, 1 of 6 left handers to win 300 games. That is pretty rare air. Right up there with guys that 60 plus dingers in a season without a little boost.
jim
January 16th, 2010
12:36 pm
Number of guys with 60 or more HRs in a season without a little boost = 2
Tom Waits wears Redwing boots
January 16th, 2010
12:39 pm
Anyone think the Braves carry 3 catchers, maybe Sammons – rest McCann in the 8th and 9th of blowouts. Ross looks like a great defender.
Jeff Blauser
January 16th, 2010
12:40 pm
RemoW, I can see figure skating for Glavine, but not ballet.
China Grove
January 16th, 2010
12:42 pm
Tom Waits
I’m all for that. Ross can hit the ball hard too. Depends on what happens with Thurston and the like, I suppose.
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
12:44 pm
I don’t see any chance of Cox using 3 catchers
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
12:45 pm
Would you really want Sammons taking a roster spot?
Redstick19
January 16th, 2010
12:46 pm
okay, looks like unless I inlcude McCann’s name in a sentence including Hall of Fame, I’m not gonna get much chatter here. I get it. Time to go see if Chris Berman has yet to begin attempting to rhyme Drew Brees’ name with something windy. Man, I can’t wait for that guy to get busted fooling around with an intern and get canned.
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
12:48 pm
My favorite Chris Berman nickname for a player—-Albert winnie the Pujols.
Tom Waits wears Redwing boots
January 16th, 2010
12:48 pm
They seem pretty versatile on the bench with Infante, Hinske – both can play IF and OF, Glauss and Prado can play 1st and 3rd. Does it seem that unreasonable?
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
12:49 pm
I think it would mean one less pitcher Cox always likes to have 12 arms.
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
12:50 pm
And I’ll say it again you really want CLint “minor league” Sammons on your roster? More power to you Tom.
Tom Waits wears Redwing boots
January 16th, 2010
12:51 pm
Heyward-
Offensively, maybe not. But he did hit the ball pretyy well in Atlanta. Just thinking of ways to rest McCann’s knees since Norton (last years emergency C is gone) ha.
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
12:52 pm
Matt Diaz in the emergency catcher
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
12:52 pm
is not in
Mike in Smyrna
January 16th, 2010
12:53 pm
Somebody earlier said something about never having a unanimous first ballot hall of famer. I agree that I don’t think it will happen with Maddux but only because some of these writers will purposefully keep it from happening. Are there any names in mind that fall in to that category that should be but probably wont? Griffey, Pujols, Randy Johnson?
Jim
January 16th, 2010
12:53 pm
If Glavine sign on with Braves I bet part of the deal is that he does not have to report/answer to AH Wren.
Tom Waits wears Redwing boots
January 16th, 2010
12:54 pm
Heyward-
13 pitchers, 8 regulars, Infante, Ross, Hinske and whoever (Heyward, Shafer, ???).
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
12:55 pm
yeah clint did very in in atlanta, Tom….. .176 career average…..did really well last year bumped the old average up to .182 with a .250obp and a robust .182slg dang he did hit well
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
12:56 pm
maybe you were talking about 2007 when he got 3 at bats for the year and got 2 hits.
Tom Waits wears Redwing boots
January 16th, 2010
12:59 pm
Heyward-
I guess it’s unlikely Sammons could improve at all. You are right, he’s a worthless slug lucky to be playing pro ball at all. Why is he even in the organization?
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
1:00 pm
I agree
Tom Waits wears Redwing boots
January 16th, 2010
1:04 pm
Heyward-
You would, I suppose you can evaluate talent better than the organization. At any rate, Sammons was merely a suggestion to the possibility. It could be any catcher with superior defensive skills as that would be his role in a 3 catcher scenario.
wjones
January 16th, 2010
1:04 pm
You guys are right, Bobby will not have a third catcher. He will have a 12th pitcher. And rather than have a wasted roster spot on a third catcher, he will have a wasted roster spot on a 12th pitcher. And Ross will not be used unless McCann is resting, no matter how well he hits. Pet peeve of mine. And for the record, I don’t think that, given the opportunity, Sammons would be any more worthless than Paul Bako, Henry Blanco, or many other “lifer back-up catchers” taking up roster spaces in MLB.
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
1:05 pm
I think he’s gone for now salamander
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
1:06 pm
Hey, you’re the one that wanted him on your team Tom, and you were the one who said he hit well in Atlanta not me, sorry you took offense…and not once did I say I could evaluate talent.
wjones
January 16th, 2010
1:09 pm
Well my earlier post was eaten up, but DOB, I was going to comment on your take on Kevin Brown’s sensational year in 1996. I too agree that is was a great year, but I wanted to comment about the WHIP and the 16 hit batters. The way I understand the stat, WHIP does not include HBP’s, only hits and walks. While that usually doesn’t make much difference, it would understate someone like Brown. HBP’s have the same effect as walks, and to not include them in WHIP is a flaw of the stat, IMHO. Doesn’t change the fact that he had a great year, and the WHIP would still be great, just not quite as great.
Tom Waits wears Redwing boots
January 16th, 2010
1:09 pm
wjones-
Even if you carry 12 pitchers and 8 regulars you still have 5 spots open minus Infante, Hinske and Ross. That is 23 players. Who are the other 2? Shafer, Heyward
It was simply a suggestion on a 25 man team. I was not advocating.
ugaaccountant
January 16th, 2010
1:10 pm
“Heyward
yeah clint did very in in atlanta, Tom….. .176 career average…..did really well last year bumped the old average up to .182 with a .250obp and a robust .182slg dang he did hit well”
Clint’s ability is completely irrelevant to the proposal. I don’t believe his proposal is a good idea but I will seek to understand it nonetheless.
His proposal is to have Clint Sammons on the Braves bench so that both McCann and Ross can be ideally utilized without having to worry about what would happen in an emergency if an injury occured. The premise being that Ross is a pretty good player that could help rest McCann and perform okay at the plate. I believe Bobby already utilizes McCann and Ross as often as he would like and is relatively comfortable in an emergency with Diaz catching an inning or two for 1 game until Sammons could be called up from Gwinnett.
The thinking here is similar to soccer where you have 3 substituions and Goalies are a highly specialized position. Often a coach will hold the 3rd substitution until very late just in case the Goalie gets injured. But ultimately there are so many other things to worry about that the coach often uses the 3rd sub anyway and would make do with whomever in the very limited chance that the Goalie does get injured. That’s why very few clubs hold an emergency catcher on the 25 man roster when there are so many other uses for that roster spot.
richbrave
January 16th, 2010
1:11 pm
DAVID O’BRIEN:
“Can he [DAMON] help the Braves? Absolutely. They could put him in left field and trade Melky Cabrera or – I’d really hate to see this – Matt Diaz……”
Is that because you consider him as solid a citizen of a player as I do? None better fror the BRAVES in my book.
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
1:12 pm
I understood his proposal UGAA but thanks for breaking it down again in 3 paragraphs well done
Tom Waits wears Redwing boots
January 16th, 2010
1:12 pm
Heyward-
My 12:39, Anyone think the Braves carry 3 catchers, maybe Sammons?
Dude, learn how to read or at least comprehend. Maybe means maybe, not I think he should be on the team.
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
1:14 pm
whatever Tom sorry you said he hit well in atlanta and I proved you wrong my bad now get over and stop insulting
Heath
January 16th, 2010
1:14 pm
I checked out that pre-presser video that TommyP posted…. what a tool that one TV guy was. Upsetting your peers, with whom you have to continue to work, is not a good idea.
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
1:16 pm
Dude, learn how to read or at least comprehend. Maybe means maybe, not I think he should be on the team. Tom
And for the record the blog shows I answered no to that, and you came back with well he did hit well in atlanta. I answered your question with a no Cox will not carry 3 catchers, then simple asked if you would really want sammons taking a roster spot.
Tom Waits wears Redwing boots
January 16th, 2010
1:16 pm
ugaaccountant-
Thanx for the clarification for all the knee-jerks. I thought anyone would understand the premise with the phrasing, Anyone think and maybe.
ColoradoBravesFan
January 16th, 2010
1:17 pm
Tom O’Hawke
January 16th, 2010
2:36 am
Hey Braves_Fan_RSD , I see on your other site that you are currently only givng the Braves a 19.1% chance of making the playoffs. 4 teams make the playoffs, from the NL, out of 16. That’s 1 in 4, or 25%. If everything is equal, all teams would have a 25% chance of making the playoffs (in the NL). So, are you saying, that right now, you think that the Braves’ chances of making the playoffs, are that much less than equal?
Even though 4 teams make the playoffs, the Braves only have 2 ways to get there. Win the NL east or the wildcard. So, it is 2 in 14(1 in 7) chance not 1 in 4. If everything were equal. But with the Phils in our division, it really is more like a 1 in 13 chance. We will need lots of ifs to go our way and some luck to make the playoffs this year.
Go Braves….
Tom Waits wears Redwing boots
January 16th, 2010
1:20 pm
Heyward-
I don’t see Cox using 3 catchers.
Very next post- Would you want Sammons taking a roster spot?
Dude, a little more than a simple no.
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
1:22 pm
right and my post @ 1:16pm says exactly what you just said lol
richbrave
January 16th, 2010
1:22 pm
richbrave
January 16th, 2010
1:18 pm
And thanks GEORGIA for sending the UNIVERSITY of RICHMOND one DARRIUS GARRETT by way of Powder Springs. He had 14 blocks against UMASS wednesday night and gets the start tonight, his first as a soph. We now have three of five starters on our men’s b-ball team from GEORGIA to wit: KEVIN ANDERSON, pg; DAVID GONZOLVEZ, sg; DARRIUS GARRETT, pf. And NIKITA THOMAS on the women’s starting five. Thank you again GEORGIA. Keep ‘um coming.
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
1:22 pm
lol thanks
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
1:24 pm
But keep arguing all you want Tom have a great day my friend I am going to go work on my reading and comprehension
Tom Waits wears Redwing boots
January 16th, 2010
1:26 pm
You should, it’s obvious.
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
1:27 pm
I could say the same thing for you Tom Waits since my post @1:16pm says the same thing as your post @1:20 pm so if i have trouble looks like you do to,…..DUDE grow up
Tom Waits wears Redwing boots
January 16th, 2010
1:29 pm
OK, I’ll try.
Salamander
January 16th, 2010
1:31 pm
Ha, Heyward – you remind me of PL a little with the way you respond in rapid fire succession. You don’t happen to like the Cowboys do you?
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
1:32 pm
I don’t really care for football not sure why
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
1:36 pm
I got no problem with Tom, and never insulted him until he said I needed to learn to read or at least comprehend. I’ll grant him that he did say maybe Sammons. But I really only asked him, if he would really want Sammons for a roster spot…..it was just a question….I don’t come on here to fight and if Tom feels I was a jerk to him then hey I’m sorry Tom.
Eric from MO
January 16th, 2010
1:36 pm
I have to agree with Uga. I think Bobby already uses Ross like a ph some, unlike past back-up catchers. Seems I recall him pinch hitting some last year. I dont remember how much but I know it was some. Really cant see any point in carrying a 3rd catcher.
Steve from OH
January 16th, 2010
1:38 pm
I dunno, I don’t think Sammons is a bad player for the Braves to keep around. Having a catcher that is good defensively and a good reciever isn’t a bad thing, especially if he’s just an injury fill-in for a short period of time, like Sammons is.
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
1:46 pm
Enter your comments here
Eric from MO
January 16th, 2010
1:47 pm
I dont know…seems like a waste of a roster spot to keep somebody to just play in case of an emergenacy.
Tom Waits wears Redwing boots
January 16th, 2010
1:48 pm
Heyward-
Sorry to insult. Anyway, if the Braves carry 13 pitchers like they did last year, they have 1 roster spot available. Carrying 13 last year is where Norton really killed them because he was used as a PH only (no real defensive skills anywhere on the diamond). If they carry 12, like most teams, there will be 2 roster spots available. Who, on the 40 man roster will get these 2 remaining spots?
jj
January 16th, 2010
1:53 pm
I know I’m beating a dead horse but I still don’t understand the total lack of respect this organization has for Andruw Jones.I know Glav,Maddog,and JS were great Braves and should be held in high esteen,but neither denied the money to stay in The ATL like #25 did and he gave his all when other Great Braves,(#10),chose to sit it out.The first thing this organization do is give his number to whoever they sign.I wonder who will wear #10.Druw,there are a few of us that appreciate your time here and there will never be another #25.I also wonder when they will pay our SS the MONEY like they did Mac and Frenchie?Silence is Golden.
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
1:54 pm
Just guessing but Thurston and Jones if they have OK spring trainings?
Eric from MO
January 16th, 2010
2:00 pm
jj AJ sucks now. It is no disrepect but he isnt a HOFer and will never be. Plus why in the hell would you pay a player more than you have too? That is ridiculous. Not even considering there already has been problems with him in the locker-room. By the way Frenchie made league min all his years here til his last one…which was through arbitration because he was eligible. Like all players have to do.
McFanny
January 16th, 2010
2:01 pm
Hey, it would be a good idea to carry 3 catchers no matter who the 3rd catcher would be. It frees up Ross to pinch hit. He had 6 homers in limited 1st half action. It makes since to give more AB’s.
David O'Brien
January 16th, 2010
2:02 pm
Just blew a home-equity payment at Decatur CD. Damn that place!
Got a bunch of stuff, including new Spoon (already played it; terrific), Guy Clark (listened at store; terrific), Freedy Johnston, Roman Candle (listening now; very good) and an old Dale Watson CD.
wjones
January 16th, 2010
2:05 pm
Bobby didn’t routinely carry 13 pitchers, just called up an extra when there were emergency situations (MY GOD, don’t give him any ideas–I still think the 12 pitchers is excessive when the AAA team is across town!). Most of the year he carried 12, and even with 5 bench players it was a short bench. First you had Norton, who didn’t produce at all in the role Bobby gave him–pinch hitter against RHP. Then you had the fourth OF–either Diaz or Church, but when Church went down it was Goriecki. Then during the Infante injury you had Hernandez, who was hitting .350 in AAA, but hit about .150 here. Then once Prado took over second, your bench player was Kelly, who killed lefties, so he was used against righties, and didn’t do nearly as well. Then, as a last resort, usually after a pitcher or two was used to pinch hit, you had Ross, who produced all year but was VERY seldom called on to pinch hit, and Bobby would not hesitate at all to have McCann bat for him when he started. So this year? We have replaced Norton with Hinske. That’s good. Hopefully Infante will not break his hand for the third straight year. Our fourth OF hopefully will still produce. Kelly will be replaced by someone, who surely can’t do much worse than he did last year. I still think we could benefit from more pinch hitting opportunities from Ross, but I don’t think Bobby will do it. I hope he proves me wrong.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
2:08 pm
DOB -
Doesn’t look like KU is having a problem early on against Texas Tech.
Salamander
January 16th, 2010
2:09 pm
DOB – do you have a wall with nothing but CDs stacked from the floor to the ceiling at your place?
David O'Brien
January 16th, 2010
2:17 pm
“Can he [DAMON] help the Braves? Absolutely. They could put him in left field and trade Melky Cabrera or – I’d really hate to see this – Matt Diaz……”
Is that because you consider him as solid a citizen of a player as I do? None better for the BRAVES in my book. — richbrave
richbrave: yes — great guy. also a good hitter, and not the defensive liability he once was in the outfield. doesn’t hit for a lot of power, but on balance he’s an asset, no doubt.
Mayor of Simpleton
January 16th, 2010
2:18 pm
DOB…Do you think Dale Murphy should be in the hall? I do but am a biased Braves fan. I think the fact he played on bad teams and bordered the steroid era killed his chances.
Tom Waits wears Redwing boots
January 16th, 2010
2:20 pm
wjones-
You are correct. It just seemed like Norton consumed 2 roster spots because Bobby would not put him in the game after he pinch hit thus consuming 2 players for one move.
Tom Waits wears Redwing boots
January 16th, 2010
2:25 pm
That’s not right either if he was pinch hitting for the pitcher. Bobby did some strange things last year that confused me like I am now. At any rate, our bench is greatly improved IMO.
David O'Brien
January 16th, 2010
2:25 pm
Carolina trailed 32-12 a few days ago against Clemson, and trails 24-8 today at home against Ga. Tech? What in the world?
ilikegoodstuff
January 16th, 2010
2:27 pm
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5LMJzz9gVQ i thought you might like this as much as i did dave
bravemandan
January 16th, 2010
2:28 pm
DOB,
You must have one heck of a music collection?
Tom Waits wears Redwing boots
January 16th, 2010
2:29 pm
DOB-
Used to love NCAA Basketball. Don’t know what happened to my passion for that game. Got a hoop above the garage door too. Braves are all consuming.
Soph
January 16th, 2010
2:31 pm
Carolina trailed 32-12 a few days ago against Clemson, and trails 24-8 today at home against Ga. Tech? What in the world?
They can’t score! And, too many turnovers.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
2:32 pm
Georgia Tech fans have to be pretty excited right now…sheesh.
Steve from OH
January 16th, 2010
2:33 pm
ilikegoodstuff–that was some pretty stellar picking by that guy. Good video…
Heath
January 16th, 2010
2:33 pm
After a loss today…I wouldn’t be surprised if Joey Brackets (Joe Lunardi of ESPN) projected UNC out to the tournament.
Fred
January 16th, 2010
2:34 pm
DOB, You mentioned that Diaz isn’t the defensive liability he once was in the outfield. I feel that is true in LF but there are certain plays in RF where he looks lost. In a platoon role he should be OK in RF, but I don’t feel defensively he is a great full-time RF. But with Heyward on the horizon that point will soon be moot. Also, if the Braves sign another OF like Damon it would seemingly make more sense to trade Diaz and keep Cabrera because Cabrera plays all 3 OF positions and is a switch hitter. If McLouth was injured, it would be nice to slide Melky into the CF/leadoff role.
EARLY WYNN
January 16th, 2010
2:34 pm
Somebody mentioned that the perception is/was that Early Wynn struggled to reach 300 wins and that is why he didn’t get into the HOF until his 3rd or 4th ballot year.
There is a lot of truth to that perception. Wynn pitched for the White Sox for five years at the tail end of his career and reached 284 Wins at the end of the 1960 season. In 1961 he managed only 8 wins in 16 starts, having been injured part of that season. He was then at 292 wins and the next year he hit the skids. Although the Sox hung in there with him, trying to help him get the 8 more W’s he needed he was only able to win 7 games in 26 starts. At the end of the year the Sox finally gave up on him and got a lot of heat since he only needed one more win but they released him anyway.
His former team, the Cleveland Indians gave him the chance and it took him five starts to get that final win to put him over the 300 mark. And then he hung it up. Now here is the strangest part of all. During that five starts and 15 relief appearance his ERA was only .228 and yet he only managed one W. His career ERA was 3.54.
So that perception is dead on. He did in fact struggle and needed two teams helping him a great deal in reaching his final goal.
ilikegoodstuff
January 16th, 2010
2:37 pm
Steve from OH – yeah it is! i think he lives here in georgia. this requires further investigation
DeployedDave
January 16th, 2010
2:37 pm
unfortunately momentum is shifting back to NC
David O'Brien
January 16th, 2010
2:38 pm
Fred, you make some good points, and agree with you on Diaz in LF vs. RF.
While Melky is undoubtedly the more versatile and better defensive player, Diaz is such a superior hitter to Melky, and against lefties the difference is dramatic.
DeployedDave
January 16th, 2010
2:39 pm
GT halted the comeback
David O'Brien
January 16th, 2010
2:39 pm
bravemandan: yes. and a heck of a security system.
DeployedDave
January 16th, 2010
2:40 pm
Uhhhhh I spoke too soon…here comes NC
Soph
January 16th, 2010
2:42 pm
Damn, UNC’s quick but they can’t finish to save their life.
Tom Waits wears Redwing boots
January 16th, 2010
2:42 pm
DOB-
Just go back to vinyl, to cumbersome to steal.
bravemandan
January 16th, 2010
2:44 pm
LOL, I don’t blame you on that. Have a great one!
Tom Waits wears Redwing boots
January 16th, 2010
2:46 pm
DOB-
You alphabetize your collection?
David O'Brien
January 16th, 2010
2:57 pm
I’m loving this ESPN360 feed of the KU game. Didn’t even realize I had the capability with my service provider, but I do. Niiiice.
MZ
January 16th, 2010
2:57 pm
DOB —–
you got the “Oh Tall Tree In The Ear” Roman Candle? was listening to that one this morning … really love that disc … listening to the new Eels right now … pretty blue … i won’t go so far as to say it’s depressing, but it’s not a happy record …
have you had a chance to listen to the new Freedy yet?
unbelievable
January 16th, 2010
2:59 pm
UNC is sloppy with the ball. Im pretty sure they’ve had more turnover than their opponents in most of their games this season also. shooting % from the line doesnt help much either. looks similar to their 2006 team
Heath
January 16th, 2010
2:59 pm
DOB -
ESPN Full Court is giving a free one-week preview. I think it expires today.
jeffrey d
January 16th, 2010
3:01 pm
ESPN Full Court is giving a free one-week preview. I think it expires today.
Me too, so unless you have a different provider, I hope you don’t get too used to it.
unbelievable
January 16th, 2010
3:02 pm
DOB – heard anything on the Nady front lately? still wouldnt be surprised to see the loser in the Damon talks (Yanks or Braves) end up with Nady
Heath
January 16th, 2010
3:02 pm
…at least I know I saw something about that not too long ago. ‘Cause I am getting ESPN channels too that I normally don’t get. I just don’t see anything in the guide about a free preview…. so, I could be wrong.
Richard Simmons
January 16th, 2010
3:03 pm
Oh what I would give to have Johnny Damon and those flowing locks on my team. He’s a real catch
Heath
January 16th, 2010
3:11 pm
…been usin’ my ESPN Fullcourt preview to watch the Ole Miss-Tennessee game. UT is NOWHERE near the same level of intensity in this game. I think that over the full season, their lack of depth is just gonna be too much. Though, gotta give Ole Miss credit….not a bad team at all.
Eric from MO
January 16th, 2010
3:17 pm
Well my Tigers win streak ends at 9.
David O'Brien
January 16th, 2010
3:24 pm
ESPN Full Court is giving a free one-week preview. I think it expires today.– Heath
But I’m watching on computer, on 360. If you’ve got ESPN Insider and most interne providers, you get it free. (At least I think you have to have Insider; maybe not, though. Anyway, it’s not the free preview thing. But glad you reminded me. I can watch rest of it on TV.)
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
3:28 pm
Some internet providers provide espn360 as a “bonus.”
Heath
January 16th, 2010
3:29 pm
DOB -
Having ESPN360 is service-provider dependent to my knowledge. When I try to sign up for it, my internet service-provider is not on the list…. Not surprised…. Roadrunner is a Time Warner product. We all know how cheap those guys are.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
3:33 pm
Soph -
You mentioned earlier that you think UNC just can’t score. Every time I have watched them, it’s been their porous defense and sub-par ball-handling by their guards.
MZ
January 16th, 2010
3:33 pm
Saints or Cardinals?
Piedmont Blues
January 16th, 2010
3:38 pm
DOB,
RE: UNC — there’s no substitute for solid guard play in college hoops. You can have a roster full of 6′8” and over guys, but if no one can get them the ball, it does you little good.
Eric from MO
January 16th, 2010
3:41 pm
MZ I like the Cardinals…Saints were pretty bad the last month of the season.
Piedmont Blues
January 16th, 2010
3:41 pm
Heath,
Roy’s teams have never been great on-the-ball defenders. Typically, they run you to death and pound you on the boards and figure you’ll eventually tire out the other guys. When your guards can’t handle the running game, Carolina will always be in a world of hurt.
Soph
January 16th, 2010
3:44 pm
You mentioned earlier that you think UNC just can’t score. Every time I have watched them, it’s been their porous defense and sub-par ball-handling by their guards.
I agree, defense is an issue as well. And, of course like you said the ball-handling by the guards which causes the high volume of turnovers.
I just saw that the 7 footer Zeller is out again for a long period of time. Not good.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
3:48 pm
Ole Miss-UT game is turning out to be quite a finish.
Soph
January 16th, 2010
3:49 pm
cab, are you here? Who ya got in today’s NFL games?
VJ – you too?
Braves_Fan_RSD
January 16th, 2010
3:50 pm
ESPN360 is free for Comcast users and ESPN INsiders
David O'Brien
January 16th, 2010
3:52 pm
Hewitt’s Jackets can blow a lead with the best of them, can’t they?
Soph
January 16th, 2010
3:59 pm
UNC takes the lead.
Soph
January 16th, 2010
4:02 pm
Haaa, look at Roy Williams. Excellent game.
lexbrave
January 16th, 2010
4:03 pm
id love to hear the argument from whomever wouldnt vote maddux in 1st ballot to keep him from going in unanamously.
Venice Jim
January 16th, 2010
4:03 pm
Soph – I notice how you looked for me when Carolina was coming back
Venice Jim
January 16th, 2010
4:06 pm
cab is about to depart, and will not see much of today’s football – she will be rooting for Drew and Peyton – she would appreciate it if you did not…
Soph
January 16th, 2010
4:07 pm
lol VJ, I’m willing to acknowledge that Duke is more experienced this year so they’ll probably win more games than UNC.
And, what a coincidence! I’m cheering for the Saints & Colts too.
Soph
January 16th, 2010
4:10 pm
I can’t watch…
Soph
January 16th, 2010
4:12 pm
Dammit. I feel like breaking something.
DeployedDave
January 16th, 2010
4:12 pm
WOW! GT just might pull it off!
Heath
January 16th, 2010
4:13 pm
Didn’t count on having to switch over to watch the end of the GT-UNC game…though I like the way it is ending.
N Nine
January 16th, 2010
4:13 pm
I love El Nino! It’s been a powderlicious winter season. All this snowboarding eases the pain of no Braves games. I’m carving myself to spring training
. Onward to more mountains….
Soph
January 16th, 2010
4:16 pm
A lot of teams are getting their first wins vs. UNC in a while this season.
Heath, I don’t think we can be friends anymore.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
4:16 pm
Soph -
UNC and UK fans often aren’t.
David O'Brien
January 16th, 2010
4:17 pm
What a finish to Tech-UNC game. Jackets hang on to win at Chapel Hill.
Train Wreck Bystander
January 16th, 2010
4:17 pm
I must add my voice today:
(1) Please, please, please do not add Johnny Damon to my Atlanta Braves. Let that sleazeball find a home elsewhere (http://www.thebrushback.com/Archives/damon_full.htm).
(2) The Waterboys ROCK. I love “Fisherman’s Blues.”
Soph
January 16th, 2010
4:18 pm
That’s okay, I guess we can be friends from April through October.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
4:20 pm
Soph -
Unfortunately, it’s been only from April through September in recent years.
David O'Brien
January 16th, 2010
4:22 pm
Train Wreck: Fisherman’s Blues is a great album (and the two-disc version they put out a while back has some worthwhile additional stuff.) I remember playing that original LP — yes, vinyl — to death back in 1989, soundtrack to some good times in a lost (but really fun) year living in Newport Beach, Calif. Man, we were young and stupid.
If you’ve not heard their earlier stuff, the “Big Music” period Waterboys, you really should try it. That stuff’s so very strong, especially their second and third albums, A Pagan Place and This Is The Sea.
Soph
January 16th, 2010
4:23 pm
True, but I’m going to be optimistic this season. So, we’ll be friends through October. After that – you’re on your own!
nolie
January 16th, 2010
4:23 pm
Anyone think the Braves carry 3 catchers, maybe Sammons TWWRB
nope, don’t see it. too little versatility
Heath
January 16th, 2010
4:27 pm
Would definitely like to se the Bravos playing ball late in October….. no doubt about that.
David O'Brien
January 16th, 2010
4:27 pm
No, can’t imagine Braves carrying three catchers, not when they’ve already got one of the best backup catchers in baseball. As Nolie pointed out, it restricts options too much; they’re made it a point to get versatile bench guys.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
4:32 pm
Miller playing great defense for the Cats early…two really nice blocks on dunk attempts. UK looking stagnant early otherwise.
Soph
January 16th, 2010
4:36 pm
Yikes, sorry Redstick. That’s not a good start for the Saints.
Braves_Fan_RSD
January 16th, 2010
4:36 pm
Wow early TOUCHDOWN by the CARDS on a RUNNING PLAY! everything about that sentence is unexpected lol
nolie
January 16th, 2010
4:38 pm
love El Nino! N Nine
me too, it keeps hurricanes away from Florida
Heath
January 16th, 2010
4:46 pm
14-25 so far on free-throw shooting for UK so far…..yikes.
Train Wreck Bystander
January 16th, 2010
4:48 pm
I am slightly familiar with some older Waterboys stuff (”The Whole of the Moon” comes to mind). “Dream Harder” is good in spots, but it also has that godawful “Corn Circles” track on it.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
4:49 pm
OK…watching John Wall is just a treat. Too bad it will be just for one year…
Heath
January 16th, 2010
4:50 pm
Saaaaaaaaaaaaweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet!!!!!!!!
Ashley Judd at the game and the camera crews givin’ her some face time.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
5:00 pm
UGA playing tough against MSU…
Speaking of MSU, have I ever told you guys about their coach Rick Stansbury? He grew up about 10 minutes from me and went the same high school… Pretty cool huh?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rick_Stansbury
Heath
January 16th, 2010
5:00 pm
…though, a bit older than me.
jeffrey d
January 16th, 2010
5:02 pm
Dammit. I feel like breaking something.
Because UNC isn’t good this year?
jeffrey d
January 16th, 2010
5:08 pm
UGA leading MSU at MSU with 1 minute left…
Heath
January 16th, 2010
5:09 pm
….always happy when a fellow Meade County, Ky guy does well (really small place). MSU wins.
jeffrey d
January 16th, 2010
5:10 pm
Sigh….UGA trailing MSU with 10 seconds left
jeffrey d
January 16th, 2010
5:10 pm
….always happy when a fellow Meade County, Ky guy does well (really small place). MSU wins.
Ugh…shut up, Heath
Nate from NCState
January 16th, 2010
5:13 pm
Man what a come back by the Pack, only to be stopped short. I really can’t see many teams in the ACC beating Clemson. But who knows? UNC will obviously get things turned around, they have a great coach. Duke is still consistent. Looks like a fun year in the ACC!!
Great weekend for sports. Hopefully Braves make it stronger and sign Johnny D.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
5:15 pm
Hey, I actually grew up with his family… a bunch of us use to play ball together “back in the day”…so, gotta route for him. Just so happens he was coaching against UGA today.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
5:16 pm
route? really Heath? lol….let the ribbing begin.
Soph
January 16th, 2010
5:18 pm
Because UNC isn’t good this year?
Actually, I’ve come to terms with UNC having an off-season. It’s losing by a few points to an ACC school that had me frustrated. I didn’t break anything though, aren’t you proud of me?
Ribber
January 16th, 2010
5:18 pm
aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahahahahahaha, you said “route” instead of root. Aaaaaaaaaaaaaahahahaha.
….How many days till pitchers & catchers??
jeffrey d
January 16th, 2010
5:26 pm
I didn’t break anything though, aren’t you proud of me?
As long as my Bulldogs keep teasing me like this, then no….I’m not proud
Soph
January 16th, 2010
5:30 pm
It’s not my fault that the Dawgs suck (at everything right now).
Heath
January 16th, 2010
5:37 pm
My Cats are looking awful today….would be a no contest if they hit their free throws. Auburn playing inspired…could hang an “L” on us today.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
5:40 pm
Pick-and-Roll defense is the BIGGEST deficiency for my Cats…..struggled with it all year. Getting schooled on it again.
keylargo
January 16th, 2010
5:43 pm
I sure would like to hear about some of the MLB players from the Dominican Republic joining in the efforts to help out the Hatian people. They share the island of Hispanola with Haiti with Haiti on the western half and the DR on the eastern. Players like Manny Ramirez make more per year playing baseball than the GNP of Haiti is. Of all the places I have been in the Caribbean, Haiti is by far the poorest.
ncgary
January 16th, 2010
5:48 pm
hopefully diaz being the emergency catcher, means he wouldnt be traded if anorther outfielder like damon or nady are added
Fred
January 16th, 2010
5:50 pm
DOB, Thanks for your earlier response about Diaz and Cabrera. You are right, Diaz is the overall better hitter, especially against lefties. We will see how it all plays out…
ncgary
January 16th, 2010
5:51 pm
havent been to haiti, but kingston jamaica and st thomas sure had their share of poverty
Heath
January 16th, 2010
6:00 pm
ncgary -
Try Cleveland, Ohio.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
6:03 pm
I saw with 19 secs left….foul before a 3-pt shot is taken if you have lead.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
6:06 pm
Tough rebound by Liggins there…he got waaaay up there. Basically the ends the game as long as UK hits a free throw now.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
6:08 pm
Whew….will take wins on the road in conference play any way you can get ‘em. UK didn’t play all that well, but a win is a win.
Venice Jim
January 16th, 2010
6:09 pm
Heath – not able to watch here, but good win. My guys play in an hour…
Heath
January 16th, 2010
6:23 pm
VJ -
Should put up a “W” against Hofstra at home…..already walked away with a squeaker on the road against them this year.
Venice Jim
January 16th, 2010
6:25 pm
As our coach has said, we can beat anybody in the league, but we can also lose to anybody…
Heath
January 16th, 2010
6:25 pm
Game that scares me coming up is @ South Carolina. Just have a bad feelin’ about it.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
6:26 pm
VJ -
Was surprised they lost to Wilmington…never know in conference play.
ncscoots
January 16th, 2010
6:34 pm
Pick-and-Roll defense is the BIGGEST deficiency for my Cats
Run it right, and you can’t hardly even defend it, period. Best play in basketball, if the screener isn’t lazy.
I really can’t see many teams in the ACC beating Clemson.
Nate, I wish, LOL. Tigers don’t really have a second go-to scorer, though Stitt has really improved his offensive game. But drop on Booker and have an off-night from three, and the Tigers are going to have problems in the half-court. Clem Tech didn’t get much out of the press today, though, and still got in the 70s, so I guess I can’t complain, LOL.
Soph, don’t worry about the Heels. Those suckers are so young, they’re bound to have some problems this year. Give ‘em a year and add Harrison Barnes, and they’ll be brutes again. And mad, to boot, LOL.
corkylikesbeer
January 16th, 2010
6:40 pm
DOB, Are you coming to Athens for the Drive By Truckers….Last night was awesome
jeffrey d
January 16th, 2010
6:43 pm
It’s not my fault that the Dawgs suck (at everything right now).
Hey now….we are in good hands with the football and basketball programs (I think/hope)
Heath
January 16th, 2010
6:44 pm
jeffrey d
January 16th, 2010
6:43 pm
It’s not my fault that the Dawgs suck (at everything right now).
Hey now….we are in good hands with the football and basketball programs (I think/hope)
Two problems remain….Florida in football and Kentucky in basketball. Tough luck for ya.
Venice Jim
January 16th, 2010
6:45 pm
Nice hit, Darren!
jeffrey d
January 16th, 2010
6:45 pm
I think we’ll be respectable in both sports in a couple years….but for now we’re rebuilding (especially in basketball)
Redstick19
January 16th, 2010
6:47 pm
Man, where’s this Saints defense been for a month? And… don’t write this Reggie Bush kid off just yet.
Rob in pain from (SC)
January 16th, 2010
6:48 pm
THis is the USC Reggie Bush
Heath
January 16th, 2010
6:49 pm
jeffrey d -
Just teasin’ ya a little. Georgia made a darn good hire for their basketball team. They have been in every one of their conference games…their 0-3 conference record doesn’t really do them justice.
Soph
January 16th, 2010
6:50 pm
Congrats Redstick – beat Dallas/Minnesota next week. I dislike them both so it doesn’t even matter which one it is.
Soph
January 16th, 2010
6:51 pm
I think we’ll be respectable in both sports in a couple years….but for now we’re rebuilding (especially in basketball)
I think so too.
L-Town Scrub
January 16th, 2010
7:16 pm
Enter your comments here
Venice Jim
January 16th, 2010
7:17 pm
Is it past bedtime back east?
L-Town Scrub
January 16th, 2010
7:22 pm
Damn….. forgot to type my message. Anyone interested in meeting down at Dark Star as a group of blog writers/readers to catch a few spring games?
Heath
January 16th, 2010
7:31 pm
Still a lot of time left….but I’m startin’ to get a little interesting in this Texas-Texas A&M game….
jeffrey d
January 16th, 2010
7:38 pm
Two problems remain….Florida in football and Kentucky in basketball. Tough luck for ya.
haha, you’re right, but neither are insurmountable. Richt’s been able to beat Florida twice, and I know we’ve beaten UK in basketball a few times in recent years (and somehow won the SEC a couple years ago). I know you’re just talking some friendly smack, but just because both programs have had some elite success in the past couple years doesn’t mean that UGA is facing hard times
BossLady
January 16th, 2010
7:45 pm
How are that Drew Brees!!! Bad about Warner, but Brees did his job.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
7:46 pm
jeffrey d -
As the old sayin’ goes… the sun shines on a DAWG’S behind every once and a while.
BossLady
January 16th, 2010
7:48 pm
I hope that Glavine will join the Braves in some position. It would not have been right to leave things as they were left. Really I don’t care where or what Smoltz end up doing. He burned his bridges when there was no reason to disrespect the Braves since he got what he wanted in Boston.
Venice Jim
January 16th, 2010
7:54 pm
Heath – W&M down one at halftime
Tomahawkin
January 16th, 2010
7:56 pm
Shout Outs to Soph, Heath, Jeffrey D, Rob In Pain, Among Others…
Nice Saints Beatdown!
Topic for today is How does everyone like our Bullpen?
I think we are stacked, but Wag’s (Wagner) will be the key… If he saves 40 games then we make the playoffs, but if he pulls a Brad Lidge 2009 season then we are screwed…
I’m not to high on the T. Sycho signing either….
Heath
January 16th, 2010
7:57 pm
VJ -
Was just thinking about ‘em actually. Was gonna check in on ‘em after the Texas game was over…..really good game going on.
jeffrey d
January 16th, 2010
8:01 pm
the sun shines on a DAWG’S behind every once and a while.
Oh, this sun is about to shine on this dog’s behind 24/7
Rob in pain from (SC)
January 16th, 2010
8:01 pm
Tomahawkin
I think our pen will be a little rough at the beginning of the season, but get a lot better throughout. I like Wagner-Saito- and Moylan.
I think it will take Medlen a month or two of REGULAR relief work to settle into the role. I am not a big O’Flaherty fan.
However I do like Luis Valdez, Michael Dunn, and if Kimbrel gets his control together watch out.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
8:01 pm
A&M has never beaten anyone ranked higher than #5 (Texas)….how great would it be if they could pull off the upset tonight?
Rob in pain from (SC)
January 16th, 2010
8:02 pm
Tomahawkin
I am also excited to follow Lee Hyde
Heath
January 16th, 2010
8:03 pm
jeffrey d
January 16th, 2010
8:01 pm
the sun shines on a DAWG’S behind every once and a while.
Oh, this sun is about to shine on this dog’s behind 24/7
So…..no you’re a dog’s behind? Just remember…you said it, not me. lol
Heath
January 16th, 2010
8:10 pm
Maybe….just maybe….
A&M up 1….shooting free throws with 30.8 seconds left. Go Aggies!
Rob in pain from (SC)
January 16th, 2010
8:10 pm
DOB
Do you know where the Caravan will be held in Columbia SC.
Thanks
Tomahawkin
January 16th, 2010
8:11 pm
Rob In Pain
How can you hate on Easy-E (O’Flaherty)?
he was our most consistant reliever all season, and especially since Cox Abused him. If I’m not mistaking he was among the league leaders in appearances…?
I heard from Phillies Fans that Wag’s is very streaky…
Heath
January 16th, 2010
8:11 pm
Clutch shot…. tied now at 60. A&M has the ball with 19.2 left.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
8:12 pm
Oooooooooover time.
TDub
January 16th, 2010
8:13 pm
Wow, great choice on song this blog, DOB – and you’re right, Transference is great, but then all Spoon CDs are great…
David O'Brien
January 16th, 2010
8:13 pm
Texas and Texas A&M going to overtime. Longhorns nearly lost at home in regulation, have never led in the game.
Tomahawkin
January 16th, 2010
8:15 pm
Game On, Come On Indy!!!
Time to Bump Some T.I. “The Countdown” a good track that got slept on when it came out in 2004
JC form UT
January 16th, 2010
8:16 pm
Rob in pain; speaking of the bullpen, i would like to see the team sign another lefty like Ron Mahay. OF had a good year and hopefully he wil continue to have success but I still would like to see more expirience.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
8:20 pm
Texas looks like they might pull it out here in OT….bummer.
David O'Brien
January 16th, 2010
8:23 pm
Rob in pain: The Braves haven’t announced the site yet for the caravan stop in Columbia. Only the date — Sunday, Jan. 31.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
8:26 pm
VJ -
W&M still trailing. Not good.
Rob in pain from (SC)
January 16th, 2010
8:26 pm
David O’Brien
It would be awesome if you can let me know whenever you find out. I wanted to go to SP but College will keep me busy during Spring Break
Rob in pain from (SC)
January 16th, 2010
8:27 pm
JC form UT
The Marlins want to trade Renyel Pinto. Wonder what it would take to get him
Heath
January 16th, 2010
8:33 pm
I don’t know why teams down 3 with 30 seconds to go wait until there is less than 10 seconds to try to shoot a 3…. should have drove for 2. Texas is really bad a free throws…could have done a lot better. Oh well. Still 2 unbeatens.
Venice Jim
January 16th, 2010
8:33 pm
Heath – lots of time left – but I am concerned
Venice Jim
January 16th, 2010
8:35 pm
Heath – I’m keeping busy texting score updates to cab at dinner – football, W&M, even Texas…
Heath
January 16th, 2010
8:43 pm
VJ -
Hope you’ve got a lot text messages on your plan.
Venice Jim
January 16th, 2010
8:45 pm
Heath – unlimited – Tribe tied!
Heath
January 16th, 2010
8:47 pm
VJ -
That’s good…those things cost a fortune otherwise. W&M has taken the lead.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
8:50 pm
VJ -
You know….coming into today’s game, W&M has an RPI of 26…. those ACC wins and the loss to UConn has really helped that rating. (REALLY under-rated win against Richmond too.)
Venice Jim
January 16th, 2010
8:51 pm
Heath – after Maryland, we were #2 – totally unbelievable
jeffrey d
January 16th, 2010
8:57 pm
So…..no you’re a dog’s behind? Just remember…you said it, not me. lol Heath
lol…we had our very brief moment in the sun in August 2008 (I bought the SI cover to prove it). Since then, well…we’ve got some work to do. Are you a UK alum?
Heath
January 16th, 2010
8:57 pm
From what I have seen of the AP/ESPN top 25 W&M is not too unbelievable at 26.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
8:58 pm
jeffrey d -
I actually went to DeVry (private) to get my bachelors degree and both of my masters degrees. I decided not to go to UK because I wanted to get away from the family as a kid.
Venice Jim
January 16th, 2010
9:06 pm
Heath – we were down by 7 with 9:14 left, win by 7 – works for me
Heath
January 16th, 2010
9:09 pm
VJ -
Was just about to say something about the win…. tied for 1st now.
Venice Jim
January 16th, 2010
9:09 pm
Annoying to be 6-1, yet in a three-way tie for first, with another team at 5-1…
Rob in pain from (SC)
January 16th, 2010
9:10 pm
This football crap is boring. Can’t wait until ST starts
Heath
January 16th, 2010
9:15 pm
Well, I stron league might help them get an at-large if they finish first in the regular season but lose i the conference tournament finals or something.
Chris from the Rock
January 16th, 2010
9:19 pm
DOB,
Forgive me if you’ve addressed this before, but why doesn’t the AJC allow you to cast a HOF ballot? Or was it just while you were the BBWAA president?
Venice Jim
January 16th, 2010
9:22 pm
Heath – not to mention 2 ACC wins – of course, we are one of 5 teams that have been around forever never to make the tourney
KISS MY ARSE
January 16th, 2010
9:23 pm
Yep, DOB loves KISS and if said blogger does not kiss his own ass, you will be deleted.
DELETE
DELETE
DELETE
DELETE
DELETE
DELETE
DELETE
Uno-Ocho
January 16th, 2010
9:24 pm
DOB,
Do you think the Braves will tap a “manager-in-waiting” like so many D-1 college football programs or do you think they might go after someone who is currently a manager/coach for another organization (Fredi Gonzalez)?
Venice Jim
January 16th, 2010
9:26 pm
Chris – an increasing number of papers will not let their reporters vote on HOF or MVP and such – it puts the reporter in a position of making the news, and not just reporting on it, in the opinion of those who hold that opinion…
Robert (Chipper Is The Best)
January 16th, 2010
9:28 pm
I know the Damon topic is a very divisive one. But, I believe Damon would be the perfect compliment to this lineup. Damon will hit .280 or better and have an OBP of .350 or better. He’s got a little pop left. He can still steal base and his presence would be a huge lift for the clubhouse. Pure and simple Damon is a ballplayer and one who makes teams better.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
9:31 pm
VJ -
Here’s to hoping they break that drought this year. *raises glass*
Uno-Ocho
January 16th, 2010
9:32 pm
I completely agree Robert. He makes this offense formidable, if for no other reason, he allows you to move Prado from the 2 hole down to 7 or later.
Rob in pain from (SC)
January 16th, 2010
9:32 pm
DOB
Have there been a release of the complete non roster invitee for ST
Venice Jim
January 16th, 2010
9:37 pm
Heath – I will drink to that – in ‘83, we were 20 seconds away, and blew it…
Heath
January 16th, 2010
9:44 pm
VJ –
Kinda the way I feel about UK in the finals in ‘97….ooooh so close to a three-peat…..but blew it.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
9:44 pm
he allows you to move Prado from the 2 hole down to 7 or later Uno
even if they get him Bobby is gonna keep Prado in the 2 hole. he has raved about what a great job Marteen did there. No way he starts the season anywhere else. or sgould he.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
9:46 pm
for a middle infielder with a well above average OPS for the position, lotsa folks sure hate on Prado
Uno-Ocho
January 16th, 2010
9:52 pm
You don’t think it would be
1. Damon
2. McLouth
3. Jean Shorts Jones
??
You think he’d drop Nate and leave Marteeeeeen at the top?
I freakin hope not.
Rob in pain from (SC)
January 16th, 2010
9:55 pm
Uno-Ocho
In my opinion, McLouth is a lower in the order hitter
lexbrave
January 16th, 2010
9:59 pm
heath, the cats didn’t blow it in ‘97, pitino threw it by not “jeopardizing derrick anderson’s pro career” by sitting him out despite having 3 doctors clear him to play.
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
10:00 pm
amazes me some of the people on this blog
Heath
January 16th, 2010
10:01 pm
Very good quote by Calipari in the post-game news conference:
“My buddy said to me, ‘If they ever decide to play 40 minutes, call me and I’ll come watch.”
Oh how true. This is the only thing that really scares me about this team. So far they have been geting away with playing with 100% effort about half of the game because of their superior talent. I have yet to see them really play from tip-off to the final buzzer.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
10:01 pm
You don’t think it would be
1. Damon
2. McLouth
3. Jean Shorts Jones
??
You think he’d drop Nate and leave Marteeeeeen at the top?
I freakin hope not. Uno
why the hell not? He did a great job there and his career OPS is higher than Nates. For that matter it’s higher than Damon’s too.Just what the hell is wrong with Prado?
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
10:04 pm
nothing is wrong with Prado Nolie. You, myself and others have been saying that for 2 years now….but I guess his stats are in our imagination?????????
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
10:07 pm
I got killed last year by one person in particular for saying Prado was the 2nd best hitter on the team and that was not even my opinion it was taken from Braves players, MC…. yeah, who has as hard time if someone calls someone other then BMAC the 2nd best hitter on the team….
Heath
January 16th, 2010
10:07 pm
Nolie -
If Damon ends up being a Brave… I would drop McLouth to 5th/6th and leave Prado in the 2-hole. His approach, and therefore his production, make him a much better candidate to hit in front of Chipper. I think it would benefit McLouth mentally to be in the middle of the lineup too.
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
10:10 pm
we are not getting Damon people come on stop it really
glord
January 16th, 2010
10:11 pm
Heath – Just got back from the UK game and it was U G L Y
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
10:11 pm
my opinion if we get anyone else it’s a Sheffield at a low 1 mil a year…..we are basically done.
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
10:13 pm
We didn’t get the power bat that so many of you bloggers wanted and now it seems Damon is your saviour….I don’t get it
Heath
January 16th, 2010
10:13 pm
glord -
I was watching on tv…it sure looked ugly….especially since it wasn’t broadcast in HD.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
10:13 pm
I’m not saying someone else wouldn’t work too, just that Bobby loved him there and will almost certainly start the season with him in the same spot and he deserves it. The guys is not great, but he seems to get dissed a lot here for reasons that don’t hold up statistically.
I still do not believe we will get Damon anyway.Plus if they sign Johnny who has to go? As little of a melky fan as I am he makes a better 4th OFer than Diaz, but Matty hits too well for me to want to see him leave and Melky stay. To get Damon would almost certainly entail them having to find a deal for prospects for either Matty or Melky b4 Damon could be signed. Just don’t see it happening.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
10:14 pm
Heyward -
I wasn’t suggesting that we were going to get Damon or that he would be the savior….just wanted to add to the point that Prado is basically a perfect fit in the 2-hole….especially compared to McLouth.
glord
January 16th, 2010
10:17 pm
I will be shocked if Prado does not hit 2nd. I way he can take the ball to RF makes him ideal.
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
10:18 pm
Heath, I was not pointing any of my comments at you, and all my comments are my opinion. Frankly, I could not agree more about Prado in the number 2 hole and honestly, Heath I have never found a comment of yours that I don’t agree with or at the least think is plausible.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
10:18 pm
glord -
One thing that I can say….If he keeps his cool and comes to play every game…. Big Cuz should get a double-double EVERY game. HE, not Wall will ultimately be the deciding factor in March IMO. When he is on…he is just as hard to cover down low as Wall is on the perimeter.
lexbrave
January 16th, 2010
10:19 pm
i think the biggest obstacle to the braves ever dreaming of signing damon are the yanks. IF it’s true that they are waiting to see if his price drops to $2m then the yanks would surely resign him for that amount before the braves had the chance…and i have no doubt his agent would suggest he go back to ny and rake in that hitters park and try the market again next winter.
Rob in pain from (SC)
January 16th, 2010
10:21 pm
lexbrave
Unless Damon is pissed at how the Yankees have treated him this offseason
Heath
January 16th, 2010
10:21 pm
Heyward -
It’s all good. I couldn’t tell what was going on. To be honest, it was game day for UK, so, my concentration on the Braves-talk was not at its peak.
18 an ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooh! Go Big Blue.
glord
January 16th, 2010
10:22 pm
Heath – Cousins is very talented but today he refused to play defense. His was up his butt most of the game. They looked bored and almost gave it waway. They need a loss.
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
10:25 pm
I just think Diaz had earned an everyday spot in LF….let’s see what happens….I think a platoon of melky/hinske is ok for RF…..that is if Heyward is not ready or as many have pointed out if it could do some justice to start him in AAA…..maybe I am an idiot, well no maybe about it I am , I am in the restaraunt business so….but I don’t see how Damon does anything for this team…..
Again I am a moron, but I would at least be willing to give Diaz a shot over Damon any day of the week….and I bet Bobby would too, keith Lockhart anyone…ummmm Greg Norton anyone….ummmm it keeps going
lexbrave
January 16th, 2010
10:26 pm
hey if it means 16 pts, 11 rebounds and 4 blocks and 1 steal every game, i hope cousins stays bored and up his butt.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
10:27 pm
glord -
Cousins looked awful on pick and roll defense (which I stated during the game on here)…. the team as a whole needs to work on that. But, the lack of energy for Big Cuz and the entire team against lesser competition is what I think will give them their loss(es). They have gotten up big on a lot of teams and put it in cruise-control waaaaay too early and let them back in the game.
lexbrave
January 16th, 2010
10:29 pm
ill go ahead and give the secret to losing respectably against UK this season…throw up as many nba range 3’s as you can and cross your fingers.
lexbrave
January 16th, 2010
10:30 pm
that strategy has helped a handful of teams win moral victories against them already this year.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
10:32 pm
lexbrave -
There have been a lot of those “throw it up there from waaaaaaaay down town and see what sticks” this year. Coach Cal has basically said if that is how we get beat, so be it. His focus is on stopping the drive and an over-all ‘protect the paint’ mentality. It’s worked so far.
glord
January 16th, 2010
10:35 pm
I will say this. Although he did not have a great game today John Wall is really scary in the open court. The Auburn fans stood and clapped after his first half fast break dunk.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
10:38 pm
glord -
That play and drive late in the game…splitting the double team…..and spinning it in was pretty good too. Wall and Patterson were rather human today.
Brandon
January 16th, 2010
10:39 pm
DOB
The caravan stops in Augusta, GA on Jan 31 not Columbia.
Brandon
January 16th, 2010
10:40 pm
DOB
Actually it stops in Augusta and Columbia. My bad i thought they only made one trip. Do you know when their going to announce the players and or coaches that are coming?
glord
January 16th, 2010
10:41 pm
Anyone know when the Braves will announce who will attend each stop on the Caravan
P'cola Brave
January 16th, 2010
10:53 pm
DOB
Just curious but I read where you, like many of us, believe the Braves need to add another proven bat. If you had your choice, what player or positions would you look to fill with the acquired player?
P'cola Brave
January 16th, 2010
10:57 pm
Here my take on whether Prado or Nate should bat second. Prado is a gap to gap hitter that generates plenty of xtra base hits. He does not have the speed that nate possesses but that is the only negative. To me Nate hasn’t learned to use the whole field to his advantage yet. It may just be me but it seems that nate had become more of a pull hitter over last year.
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
10:58 pm
Just curious when this blog turned into a basketball/football blog?
glord
January 16th, 2010
11:00 pm
Heyward – that kind of happens when the Braves have not had a transaction in 3 weeks and pitchers and catcher dont report for over another month.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
11:00 pm
Heyward -
Not trying to be a smart-a_ _ but look at the top, right-hand part of the blog page next to DOB’s picture. All sports, music, movies, and food are our normal blogging topics.
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
11:02 pm
hmmm glord signed lat week, the Glaus signing was official like 2 weeks ago.. I hear you 3 weeks Glord
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
11:03 pm
hinske not Glord
Heath
January 16th, 2010
11:03 pm
glord -
You are right too….I mean, it is the offseason and very little is happening right now in baseball. Can only recycle the same Braves discussions so many times…
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
11:04 pm
I hear you guys, just sucks for me since I am not a basketball or football fan maybe I should be
jed
January 16th, 2010
11:05 pm
i get college football but pro football is boring.
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
11:06 pm
you’re not a smart a$$ at all Heath, not in the least… I just wish I was into more sports…sadly baseball is the only thing that does it for me…you’re right the blog clearly states all sports…I should apprecaite that.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
11:06 pm
Heyward -
If you’re keen on being a basketball fan, might I suggest UK? Well…if you like following a winning team/program.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
11:10 pm
jed -
I’m with you on football. I like college a lot more than professional. Of course, I feel the same way about basketball too. College is fun to watch in that sport no matter the teams…but it is sooooo hard to watch the NBA. Few exceptions were Jordan, Kobe, and LeBron in the playoffs…and that still isn’t as good as college to me.
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
11:11 pm
i get college football but pro football is boring. JED
See that’s something I don’t gettt, and I have heard tha same thing from many friends about football…..
P'cola Brave
January 16th, 2010
11:15 pm
Heyward
In my opinion this is the difference between pro and college football. The reason for me that college football is more exciting is that each team lives and dies by that weeks game. One loss can knock you out of the national championship, conference championship, etc. Pros can afford to fold up or have a bad game. A team can lose 7 of 16 games and still make the playoffs with a chance to be champions. For me the fact that each games accounts for so much makes college football more exciting.
Joe D. loves Marilyn...
January 16th, 2010
11:16 pm
While the subject was brought up earlier…
If the Braves do not take a hard look at Fredi Gonzalez for the post-Bobby Cox era…then, someone is making a very bad mistake!
The man can flat out manage…and we need to lie, cheat and steal this guy away from the Marlins.
No…Ned Yost.
No…Terry Pendleton.
No…Bobby Valentine (that was a joke, right?).
BELIEVE…
Heath
January 16th, 2010
11:17 pm
P’cola -
That is definitely one of the contributors.
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
11:17 pm
I guess my question is this….every football fan I have ever met prefers college over the NFL no question about it. So that said….why do super bowl commercials cost so much and shouldn’t college bowl commercials be in that range?
P'cola Brave
January 16th, 2010
11:18 pm
I hope either F. Gonzalez or Eddie Perez is the successor for Bobby.
jed
January 16th, 2010
11:19 pm
yeah heath, i dont know how people can get worked up over pro football. or pro basketball, for that matter, which is just unwatchable. pro baseball is a different thing. i’d much rather watch pro baseball than college. i think it’s the nature of the game itself–the strategic aspects are heightened when you have players who execute on a higher level.
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
11:19 pm
I hear you P’cola Brave thanks for the perspective…and it makes sense
nolie
January 16th, 2010
11:19 pm
hear you guys, just sucks for me since I am not a basketball or football fan Heyward
me neither anymore.
cabravesfan
January 16th, 2010
11:19 pm
The Curse of Soph has been lifted!
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
11:21 pm
I am an idiot, as previously mentioned, but I would like Valentine…anyone who can get ejected from a game and come back in those glasses is good with me. lol
P'cola Brave
January 16th, 2010
11:22 pm
I like college baseball but the game is very different with aluminum bats. I really get into it come conference tournaments and through WS.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
11:22 pm
jed -
Baseball is the only sport that I prefer the pros over the college guys.
Heyward -
People have Super Bowl parties just to have them…I’ve been to some where the ONLY thing people care about are the commercials. I think times are going to chance that and Pepsi has started this year already. They are not going to advertise during the Super Bowl this year. They can do so much more with their marketing money….interesting story about it a few weeks back.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
11:23 pm
I think Frank will put his stamp on field like he just did in the scouting dept. I think it likely that nobody with strong ties to the previous regime will be hired to replace Bobby.
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
11:23 pm
P’cola ….while eddie might be great I think they would give Snitker(probably not spelling that right) a chance b4 him…..but I think it was Nolie that pointed out that Wren might go with people that were “close” to him as he did with the scouting department.
hmmmmmmmmmmmm
January 16th, 2010
11:24 pm
DOB -only thing about Kevin Brown and his dominance – wasn’t there some steroid evidence that came out on him too, or am I remembering incorrectly?
Heath
January 16th, 2010
11:25 pm
Heyward -
In fact, Pepsi is getting so much free publicity over not advertising during the Super Bowl, that it has already paid dividends. Really smart move.
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
11:26 pm
Have to be honest, as gay as it may be, the commercials are the only reason I watch the supoer bowl………..unless the falcons are in it
jed
January 16th, 2010
11:27 pm
heyward– interesting question. do you know the rates for commercials during the bcs championship game? that would be the only bowl game that’s analagous to the super bowl. speaking of which, how stupid was it of them to have that game on a thursday night? as for the super bowl, it’s just an excuse for a neighborhood party. the NFL was smart to turn it into a cultural event, and a forum for advertising. i think half the viewers really only watch the game for the halftime show and the new advertisements. it’s because it’s become such a cultural event that they can charge what they do for commercials.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
11:27 pm
I could see McDowell staying, since he has done a good job and is not old line Braves. Since we have no idea who Frank does or doesn’t like, all we can do is guess, but if I was in his current position and had just successfully applied some of the pressure that moved Bobby off the field I would surely solidify my position further by hiring someone with little ties to Bobby.
Joe D. loves Marilyn...
January 16th, 2010
11:28 pm
Not sure if Eddie Perez would be hard enough on the players when you occasionally have to be…but other than that, he might be a good choice for bench coach (assistant head coach…for all of us football fans…non-Cowboys though…thank God…) for Fredi…
BELIEVE…
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
11:28 pm
I shouldn’t say as gay as it may be, how bout as pathetic as it is for a southern guy to say
nolie
January 16th, 2010
11:31 pm
Not sure if Eddie Perez would be hard enough on the players when you occasionally have to be Jod D
I hear he chews a@@ pretty well when needed, but Bobby does too in private. Just cause it doesn’t get published doesn’t mean it doesn’t happen.
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
11:31 pm
jed…I only thought of that becasue all of my friends loce football…but when asked it’s not even a debate…college or nfl…not one of the 10+ says the NFL…perhaps I should work for the collge bowl system to promote….lol
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
11:32 pm
love not loce on my 11:31 post
David O'Brien
January 16th, 2010
11:33 pm
hmmmm: Yes on Brown and link to ‘roids. But to be accurate, it was after he went to Dodgers and got noticeably larger. I mean, he put on about 15 pounds in one offseason and was absolutely ripped … and that’s when his injury issues began.
When he was with the Marlins, I can’t say with any certainty, but I can assure you he wasn’t a big guy or exceptionally muscular or anything like that. For what that’s worth.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
11:36 pm
Brown prolly took them not to be a better pitcher but to protect himself from all the irate batters who wanted to rush the mound
P'cola Brave
January 16th, 2010
11:36 pm
I don’t know. I’ve always felt that Eddie would make an amazing manager one day. Knows the game extremely well as do most catchers and back up catchers. I think he would play a more modern style of game which is small ball (i.e. sacrifices, SB, hit and run, etc). Eddie seems to be highly respected amongst braves personel and players. The only downfall is his easy going personality. I think serving under cox for as many years as he has he has learned from the best how to handle players and when the best situation is to stand up for them with umpires.
jed
January 16th, 2010
11:37 pm
fred armisen cant do an impression to save his life. he does an absolutely abysmal obama and that larry king he just did was awful.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
11:38 pm
I think he would play a more modern style of game which is small ball (i.e. sacrifices, SB, hit and run, etc). P’C
not necessarily disagreeing, but what makes you think that?
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
11:38 pm
P’cola I think eddie could light a fire under an players arse if need be
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
11:39 pm
Jed who is Fred Armisen? should i google him?
P'cola Brave
January 16th, 2010
11:40 pm
Can’t say I have anything to back it up but I think Eddie is very modern and would coach as such.
jed
January 16th, 2010
11:40 pm
pro football is a soulless game. it just reeks of corporate interests and vegas gambling.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
11:40 pm
That’s a pretty big jump from BP coach to Manager isn’t it? Doubt Eddie gets any serious consideration…. I could be wrong…but that seems like a loooooooong shot.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
11:41 pm
and how is small ball a more modern kinda game? It was around from day one b4 homers amounted to anything. just curious
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
11:41 pm
just a gut feeling but if anyone takes over for Bobby that is in the organization now it’s Snitker(again that’s probably not the right spelling).
Steve from OH
January 16th, 2010
11:41 pm
I think Eddie would be a good candidate. Should at least get some consideration IMO.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
11:42 pm
Snitker is right, Hey
David O'Brien
January 16th, 2010
11:43 pm
Do you think the Braves will tap a “manager-in-waiting” like so many D-1 college football programs or do you think they might go after someone who is currently a manager/coach for another organization (Fredi Gonzalez)? — Uno-Ocho
No, they won’t name a manager-in-waiting. Or let’s just say I’d be very surprised if they did. Extremely surprised.
And by the way, the only college football teams that I can think of that had that arrangement were FSU and Texas. Now only Texas, since Bowden is done at FSU. What other teams you talking about?
jed
January 16th, 2010
11:43 pm
Jed who is Fred Armisen? should i google him? (heyward)
he’s a talentless SNL actor. keenan thompson’s pretty funny though. one of those guys (like chris rock) who makes you laugh just looking at him.
P'cola Brave
January 16th, 2010
11:43 pm
I mean it to be modern as its coming back into play. During the ’90s when balls were flying out of stadiums you didn’t have to play small ball as much. You could move base to base and wait for the big blow. Since the crack down on steroids, HR have been down and it seems to me you see more teams playing small ball. Thats what I meant by modern. That it seems to be making a comeback, not new.
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
11:44 pm
Nolie, don’t kill me for saying this…but a couple of weeks ago I think someone said they would like for Yost to be the manager and you said he lost control of his team….not your exact words I know…..in your book would he be or is he a not so good choice?
David O'Brien
January 16th, 2010
11:45 pm
Heyward, don’t take this the wrong way, but I’m curious: Are you either really young or relatively new to this country? Again, please don’t take that the wrong way. I was just reading some of your questions/comments and wondering what the background might be.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
11:45 pm
I think if I were picking a guy who is now with the Braves, i would pick Perez.
Topher24
January 16th, 2010
11:45 pm
Joining ‘next Braves’ manager’ conversation late, but I’m counted among those who want Fredi to ditch the Fish and don the Bravo’s managing gear…. but whoever gets it, I hope they wear spikes and take off their caps every time an ump blows a call.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
11:47 pm
..in your book would he be or is he a not so good choice? Heyward
there are a number of others that I would prefer.over Yost.
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
11:47 pm
I can’t lie Jed Keenan Thompson is funny to me…he was the best thing about Barber Shop 2…a pathetic movie overall but he cracked me up it in it all the 2 minutes that he had lines
P'cola Brave
January 16th, 2010
11:47 pm
I’m all for Fredi and I think he’ll be the one to take over if he becomes available. After him I hope its Perez.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
11:48 pm
DOB -
UK had the coach-in-waiting with Joker Philips taking over for Coach Brooks. Convenient forgetfullness or more fun ribbing for us UK guys?
tiger297
January 16th, 2010
11:49 pm
I would like to see Eddie as our next manager as well…and as far as the pro vs college in football I think alot of it is geographical…when I lived up north (and for all mine friends from north) pro football is king (as opposed to college)…in the south it is opposite…probably driven by lack of any real professional success for southern teams (with the exceptions of dallas/miami)
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
11:49 pm
DOB
I don’t know what young is…I am 30…and born in CA….I guess you are calling me an idiot and that’s ok….I don’t have to be here anymore… I think that was really rude by the way but ok
Topher24
January 16th, 2010
11:50 pm
As much frustration as Braves fans have had with TP as hitting coach… I def don’t see him garnering as much attention as MGR as what I once thought he would. Not that fans’ feelings for managing candidates matter… just sayin’. And I love Eddie, but I think he’d need more experience in coaching/managing.
jed
January 16th, 2010
11:50 pm
heyward– he’s hilarious. love him. they’ve got a pretty good cast this season. armisen must be a great networker or backstage politician, because he’s NEVER been funny.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
11:51 pm
.I don’t have to be here anymore… I think that was really rude by the way but ok Heyward
don’t get all ruffled and run off
Heyward
January 16th, 2010
11:52 pm
Heyward, don’t take this the wrong way, but I’m curious: Are you either really young or relatively new to this country? Again, please don’t take that the wrong way. I was just reading some of your questions/comments and wondering what the background might be. DOB
I have to say I think that was pretty mean….. well good luck Braves in 2010 but…wow that was below the belt DOB
P'cola Brave
January 16th, 2010
11:53 pm
Joe Girardi didn’t have any coaching experience that I know of when he took over the Marlins and he’s been highly successful.
nolie
January 16th, 2010
11:54 pm
Lotsa Marlins fans and some in the organization are pretty down on Fredi. Nobody is perfect.
BTW did anybody think that BEAR INC could be that Marlins fan who always posted about financial things?
Topher24
January 16th, 2010
11:54 pm
True enough about Girardi and others have had success with little or no previous experience… but that would probably count as an exception rather than a rule, agree?
Robert (Chipper Is The Best)
January 16th, 2010
11:56 pm
Heyward, lighten up. I have been on this blog for over five years and I really doubt DOB meant it that way. He was simply wondering. It was not a “below the belt” shot in my opinion.
Heath
January 16th, 2010
11:57 pm
Heyward -
Don’t mistake DOB’s comments as rude. I can assure he meant no harm. Football is normally regarded as the most popular sport in America and baseball might just be third…
P'cola Brave
January 16th, 2010
11:58 pm
Agree. But I think it depends on the person. To me Eddie Perez has always seemed like one of the most baseball intelligent people in the game. I don’t think he would have any problem managing right away. Not everyone gets so lucky but to me Perez would fare well and could be a very good fit.
Topher24
January 16th, 2010
11:59 pm
About Girardi… I don’t think he’s one of the cases where he was just lucky, however, if he had managed the Pirates or Royals in his first season… regardless of how well he managed, those teams would have still lost or not made postseason or whatever… would he have been given the chance to manage the Yanks? idk. Don’t guess it matters, though, history is history. It happened the way it did.
nolie
January 17th, 2010
12:00 am
Joe G got ripped a lot for the way he handled the pitching staff down there. Wasn’t all peaches n cream
tiger297
January 17th, 2010
12:00 am
plus eddie manages in central america/winter ball every year so not sure how he could get much more experience aside from managing minor league team or the braves go after somebody else’s manger
heyward
just thinking he was curious how someone in the US for 30 years would be asking some of the questions you have…more of a background thing…just guessing though maybe he was really trying to run you off the blog LOL
Heath
January 17th, 2010
12:01 am
Heyward -
To further that point…I am 29 and grew up in Ky….it makes perfect sense for someone like me to have UK basketball (commonly regarded as the best all time) at the top of my sports list, Braves baseball 2nd (TBS coverage back in the day and no pro team in Ky) and football after that (UK not a football school and no pro team in Ky). So, asking about your background is just another potential way for DOB to understand why you feel the way you do.
jed
January 17th, 2010
12:01 am
yeah heyward, there are a lot of very young people who post sometimes and it’s just good to know who you’re talking to. like jurrjens. he’s 10, i think.
Topher24
January 17th, 2010
12:02 am
I like Eddie a lot, and I do think the guy’s got baseball savvy… but again, my clear choice is Fredi. But how about a tandem of Fredi and Eddie??? That’s got a nice ring to it.
nolie
January 17th, 2010
12:02 am
I think he’s gone
tiger297
January 17th, 2010
12:02 am
sounds good to me topher…eddie as manager and fredi as bench coach i would take that
nolie
January 17th, 2010
12:04 am
Fredi is tied up for next year at this point IIRC.
Topher24
January 17th, 2010
12:05 am
Any combination would work for me as well, but Fredi’s not leaving Fish for ATL’s bench job. Eddie moving up in the new manager’s coaching staff, however, would not be surprising.
P'cola Brave
January 17th, 2010
12:05 am
Fredi would be my number 1 but Eddie is my number 2. I don’t know what kid of relationship Caddahia and Fredi have but maybe you would see Fredi give Eddie the bench job if he is hired as manager.
tiger297
January 17th, 2010
12:05 am
nolie what does the abbreviation mean?
P'cola Brave
January 17th, 2010
12:06 am
IIRC i believe means if i remember correctly
jed
January 17th, 2010
12:07 am
nolie–jurrjens is 10, right?
Topher24
January 17th, 2010
12:07 am
Fredi is contractually bound, nolie, but greater obstacles have been overcome. Atlanta would have to get permission to talk to Fredi, and Marlins would have to release him from his contract… who knows if they would? However, I presume they would if he let them know he didn’t want to manage for them.
nolie
January 17th, 2010
12:08 am
tiger If I Remember Correctly
jed I think JJ claims to be 15
Heath
January 17th, 2010
12:09 am
jj is quite the character on here though, regardless of age.
P'cola Brave
January 17th, 2010
12:09 am
I believe he was close to losing his job this year with the marlins. I could be wrong.
bravofan
January 17th, 2010
12:10 am
is there something wrong with being young and blogging?
nolie
January 17th, 2010
12:10 am
not so sure since it would benefit a team in the same division, Topher. But you are right it might happen, in fact there was a small push to fire him this year I think. They might just dump him. Just injecting some reality into the conversation
Heath
January 17th, 2010
12:11 am
bravofan -
I hope not. ‘Cause I consider myself young (29).
nolie
January 17th, 2010
12:11 am
is there something wrong with being young and blogging? Bravo
why are you young?
Topher24
January 17th, 2010
12:11 am
An aside from the managing conversation…
The internet generally gives a +/- 5 yrs to a person’s age. Plus 5 for women, minus 5 for men. So if a man says he’s 30, he’s more than likely younger… possibly 5 yrs younger, or 25. However, if a woman says she is 30, she’s probably older, as much as 5 yrs older, or 35…
bravofan
January 17th, 2010
12:12 am
prob younger than yall
tiger297
January 17th, 2010
12:12 am
topher
wouldnt expect fredi to come over as a bench coach just sarcastic
I love these BS rules…Braves can’t contact Fredi but Fredi will need to let the marlins know he doesn’t want to manage for them anymore (presumable without knowledge of the interest the braves have in him)…makes alot of sense to me
jed
January 17th, 2010
12:12 am
nah nolie, i’m pretty sure he’s 10.
now the ting tings are on (SNL). they’re just a big fat headache. gotta wonder who picks the bands….
Heath
January 17th, 2010
12:12 am
Topher24 -
So, do you think P/L was really 37? lol
P'cola Brave
January 17th, 2010
12:13 am
I’ll admit I’m young. I’m only 23 but enjoy the back and forth on this blog.
bravofan
January 17th, 2010
12:14 am
heath: good because im soon to be 17 and get on during school and blog all the time
nolie
January 17th, 2010
12:14 am
prob younger than yall Bravo
you could be an old f@rt and be younger than I am, Bravo.
No there is nothing wrong with being young and a blogger
jed
January 17th, 2010
12:16 am
nolie likes them young.
Topher24
January 17th, 2010
12:16 am
From time to time, a team asks permission to talk to other teams’ employees. Remember a few years back when Bruce Bochy moved from SF to SD, SD asked permission to speak with Bochy. So, no BS intended, brother. Just stating a possible means of getting Fredi as MGR.
tiger297
January 17th, 2010
12:16 am
lol @ topher’s age comments…I would also add an age factor in there as well…if someone says 15 probably 10 but most guys I know who are 35 probably won’t say they are 40 on the net…especially if the site is geared to 28 y/o women
nolie
January 17th, 2010
12:17 am
good because im soon to be 17 and get on during school and blog all the time Bravo
so by the above rule stated by Topher, you are really 12?
Topher24
January 17th, 2010
12:17 am
No, Heath, just adding to the convo about age… lol.
bravofan
January 17th, 2010
12:18 am
no thank god
Heath
January 17th, 2010
12:18 am
$ trumps age though.
Pickens
January 17th, 2010
12:19 am
DOB- UK football just named there past coach in waiting Joker Phillips to be the head coach after Rich Brooks retired a week after the Music City Bowl.
Topher24
January 17th, 2010
12:19 am
Glad to provide a laugh at this late hour. As we’re speaking of ages… I need to retire for the night and go check on my little girl who had her 2nd B’day today. Good night, guys.
nolie
January 17th, 2010
12:20 am
at 40 lotsa things trump age. Even O’Brien gets a date once in a blue moon. ( Heyward paid me to say that. )
Heyward
January 17th, 2010
12:21 am
at 40 lotsa things trump age. Even O’Brien gets a date once in a blue moon. ( Heyward paid me to say that. ) Nolie
No I didn’t
tiger297
January 17th, 2010
12:21 am
sorry topher didn’t mean that as a shot at you…just speaking of how there are some rules that seem to be counterintuitive
if the marlins are happy with fredi and the braves contacted them not sure they would have much of an incentive to tell fredi…hey the braves want to steal you from us would you want to move to a team with 3X the payroll
i agree with you if fredi told them he wanted to be released changes the perspective…but would be kinda risky to do that unless he knew the braves had an interest (which would be difficult to know since the braves cant contact him)
Heath
January 17th, 2010
12:22 am
nolie
January 17th, 2010
12:20 am
at 40 lotsa things trump age. Even O’Brien gets a date once in a blue moon. ( Heyward paid me to say that. )
But not from Craig’s List!!! (Most of you will get that.)
bravofan
January 17th, 2010
12:24 am
anybody out here play baseball video games?
bravofan
January 17th, 2010
12:26 am
got it heath
Steve McP
January 17th, 2010
12:26 am
Topher – Is your name actually Christpoher? Used to play cricket with a “Topher” which was a shortened version of his given name Christoper.
Heyward
January 17th, 2010
12:27 am
I don’t like to argue with anyone, I do that enough at work. I argued with Tom Wears Red Boots today and didn’t care for it right or wrong. I don’t get into football, trust me all my friends talk crap everyday during the season, and ask me why I love a, ummmm take the other work for cat starts with a P, sport like baseball…
Heath
January 17th, 2010
12:29 am
Heyward -
We’re not saying that you are wrong for liking baseball and not liking the rest of the sports. So, it’s all good. This is a Braves baseball blog (mostly) afterall.
nolie
January 17th, 2010
12:29 am
No I didn’t Heyward
I’m pretty sure everybody knew that
Heyward
January 17th, 2010
12:35 am
We’re not saying that you are wrong for liking baseball and not liking the rest of the sports. So, it’s all good. This is a Braves baseball blog (mostly) afterall. Heath
It’s not that I don’t like the rest of sports it’s just that I don’t follow it like I do baseball. Could I tell you who played what college bowl game? No, could never…could I answer what teams are in the NFL playoffs…yes I can..It’s not that I don’t like it I just don’t get into it…fact of the matter is I respect every sport and every person who plays it…..college, pro it takes an unquestionable talent to do it.
glord
January 17th, 2010
12:38 am
Heath – Nothing wrong with CraigsList …. as long as you are buying a used car.
nolie
January 17th, 2010
12:40 am
did Paul really give up that easily?
Heath
January 17th, 2010
12:40 am
glord -
I’ve used it for selling stuff around the house….just not the way….oh, you guys know what I meant.
glord
January 17th, 2010
12:40 am
Heath – Im suprised you are not a Reds fan like most of the Kentucky guys I know.
David O'Brien
January 17th, 2010
12:40 am
Heyward: It was “mean” and “below the belt” in what way? … Oh, nevermind. Forget I asked. You took it the wrong way. I was only asking because it sounded as if you might come from a different cultural background, or perhaps were a little young to recognize some of the pop-culture references people made that you asked about, etc. Again, meant no insult whatsoever. Sorry you took it that way.
glord
January 17th, 2010
12:42 am
nolie
January 17th, 2010
12:40 am
did Paul really give up that easily?
I hope so. I did not fight with the guy but he sure clogged up the blog howling at the moon.
Heath
January 17th, 2010
12:43 am
glord -
I am not old enough to have watched the Big Red Machine….With TBS carrying so many Braves games as a kid, they were the team to watch. Plus, I have family in the ATL area…they were baseball fans and my mom and dad aren’t…my aunt introduced me to the Braves.
glord
January 17th, 2010
12:44 am
DOB – No matter how many emails or blog posts I write I cant quite figure out how to type “tone”
nolie
January 17th, 2010
12:44 am
I just skipped over him unless I was feelin’ mean and then I took a shot at him and got most of it outta my system.
Heath
January 17th, 2010
12:46 am
glord
January 17th, 2010
12:44 am
DOB – No matter how many emails or blog posts I write I cant quite figure out how to type “tone”
Is it wrong that I giggled a little when I read that?
glord
January 17th, 2010
12:46 am
I grew up in Vermont in the 80’s and the Red Sox were obviously the #1 team but guess #2? The Braves. The power of TBS.
nolie
January 17th, 2010
12:47 am
now I’m gonna hafta find somebody else to take my frustrations out on. anf volunteers who agree not to fight back too hard?
glord
January 17th, 2010
12:49 am
DOB – No matter how many emails or blog posts I write I cant quite figure out how to type “tone”
Oh wait I just typed it. lol
David O'Brien
January 17th, 2010
12:50 am
Speaking of Eddie Perez…
A Venezuelan who lives here in Atlanta told me that Eddie got let go as manager in the middle of the playoffs last week in the Venezuela winter league. Apparently one of his players got into an argument with him on the field, something along those lines. But I don’t know the details, to be honest, because the guy was vague. But he sent me a link to the story in a Spanish-language newspaper. I’ll get it translated and let you know exactly.
jed
January 17th, 2010
12:51 am
now I’m gonna hafta find somebody else to take my frustrations out on. anf volunteers who agree not to fight back too hard? –nolie
i’d suggest jurrjens. he’s too young to fight back…
Heath
January 17th, 2010
12:53 am
jed
January 17th, 2010
12:51 am
now I’m gonna hafta find somebody else to take my frustrations out on. anf volunteers who agree not to fight back too hard? –nolie
i’d suggest jurrjens. he’s too young to fight back…
As long as it’s not McFann….I think we all agreed she was the blog’s little sis.
nolie
January 17th, 2010
12:55 am
nah I like JJ ok, it’s gotta be somebody I don’t feel guilty about pokin’. during the season there are plenty of in-game idiots, but most leave or tone it down after the season
nolie
January 17th, 2010
12:56 am
nah, I’m skairt of McFann
Heath
January 17th, 2010
12:58 am
nolie -
“not” McFann.
Shanks a lot
January 17th, 2010
12:59 am
DOB-
I realize there is no official “manager in waiting”, but I think the job is Terry Pendleton’s. It seems like he has had a few chances over the years to take other jobs, but seems to be waiting to take over for Bobby Cox. Thoughts?
Brandon
January 17th, 2010
12:59 am
I think Eddie Perez is a strong candidate for the next braves manager. I believe he and pendelton are the only two in house candidates. The best option to me seems to be Freddi Gonzolaez, he has done such a great job with florida and would be a popular move here in atlanta.
Heath
January 17th, 2010
12:59 am
nolie -
I volunteer anyone who says “ballgame” before the 7th inning. Sound good?
jed
January 17th, 2010
1:02 am
mcfann’s spunky–like a young meredith baxter.
nolie
January 17th, 2010
1:02 am
she might sic rally turtle on my toes
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 17th, 2010
1:03 am
nolie–jurrjens is 10, right?
I’ll be 16 in 3 months. So I guess you could say I’m 15 and 3/4s (That was a joke
)
nah nolie, i’m pretty sure he’s 10.
Just like Heyward, I’m gonna take this as an insult. What chu you got against me, pal?
I don’t ever attack anyone but PL, and even then I wasn’t as bad as most, and only did it after me called me a “MORON’S”. I keep about my business, do my thing. So what is it?
jj is quite the character on here though, regardless of age.
I hope in a good way
Soph,
I’m sorry. I could watch the football game, I went out. I know, I know, shame on me for having a life.
David O'Brien
January 17th, 2010
1:04 am
Heath: Maybe not the seventh inning, but how ’bout if they say it before the fifth? Maybe unless it’s a five-run or more lead. Last season we had some folks saying “ballgame” — and not with irony — in the second or third inning after the Braves would fall behind by one or two runs. It was ridiculous. And again, you could tell many of them weren’t saying it to be funny. They were dead serious.
jed
January 17th, 2010
1:05 am
jj–just playing with you, buddy.
uga-brave
January 17th, 2010
1:06 am
everyone loves eddie perez? dave is that the consenus.
know a couple of guys in sugarloaf that would beg to differ.
Heath
January 17th, 2010
1:06 am
DOB -
Annoying as it was…I’ll take that over the junk we’ve recently rid ourselves of.
nolie
January 17th, 2010
1:07 am
I stuck up for you JJ and told him you was 15
uga-brave
January 17th, 2010
1:08 am
dont laugh, finally bought a i pod. absolutely amazing thing. nano touch.
still can figure out all the features but have downloaded some sweet music.
god bless steve jobs.
jed
January 17th, 2010
1:09 am
dont believe him, jj. nolie was the one wut that started it.
uga-brave
January 17th, 2010
1:10 am
dob, got “tim” going now.
David O'Brien
January 17th, 2010
1:10 am
uga-brave: if you’re asking me (am I the “dave” you were referring to?) then I have no idea if he’s the consensus. I don’t think there is a consensus, to tell you the truth. Who knows who might become available, or even who Frank Wren might have in mind right now? He’s not given any indication at all.
Or did you just mean that he seems to be a consensus in terms of popularity on the blog? If so, then yes, it does seem that way.
As far as “two guys in Sugarloaf,” could you possibly be more cryptic? Geez….
nolie
January 17th, 2010
1:11 am
nah Paul did not bother me nearly as much as the in-game ranters. in a losing effort there might be several hundred totally negative posts about every little thing that happened. wasn’t the ballgame cries so much as the constant repetition inning after inningbah humbug
Heath
January 17th, 2010
1:13 am
And to all a good night….
David O'Brien
January 17th, 2010
1:13 am
uga-brave: You’re redeemed. Replacements. Niice.
jed
January 17th, 2010
1:15 am
nolie–i sense dob would appreciate it if we ceased all references.
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 17th, 2010
1:18 am
Heath,
How about the morons who say “Ballgame” when the score is 0 – 0.
Wait a minute… did I just say morons? Oh….my…Gawd!
jed,
I’m watching you fella! :pimp:
N8
January 17th, 2010
1:18 am
DOB, in all fairness, before the ever so mentioned 28th day of June flipped on the calendar, if the Braves fell behind by 1 or 2 runs early in the game, it usually was “ballgame”. LOL
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 17th, 2010
1:18 am
:smug:
nolie
January 17th, 2010
1:18 am
Dave can take it jed, he wears a leather jacket and rides a Harley.
jed
January 17th, 2010
1:20 am
jj–what does ” :pimp: ” mean? and if i were you, i’d be watching nolie. hope you have eyes in back of your head…
nolie
January 17th, 2010
1:20 am
just like I useta,… a long long long time ago
nolie
January 17th, 2010
1:20 am
he’s too old jed
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 17th, 2010
1:21 am
I thought those would work…
I stuck up for you JJ and told him you was 15
So you did…
dont believe him, jj. nolie was the one wut that started it.
Hmm, now I’m torn. Don’t make me go back to page 8…
nolie
January 17th, 2010
1:24 am
you can take my word for it JJ, would ilie to you? Your Unka nolie??
Shanks a lot
January 17th, 2010
1:24 am
I’m reading the blog on my 32gig itouch. Ain’t technology grand?
jed
January 17th, 2010
1:25 am
jj–dont go to page 8. nolie said some really awful things about you. on pages 6 & 7 as well.
nolie
January 17th, 2010
1:26 am
I touch? who you touching? and where? tsk tsk
jed
January 17th, 2010
1:30 am
jj’s busy poring over pages 6, 7 & 8. wut a knucklehead!
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 17th, 2010
1:35 am
jj’s busy poring over pages 6, 7 & 8. wut a knucklehead!
Naw, I’m laughing at my stupid dogs, what’s on pages 6, 7, and 8?
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 17th, 2010
1:37 am
Oh, nvm jed, I got it. Imma bit slow, maybe because I’m ten.
jed
January 17th, 2010
1:40 am
9 and 3/4….
Shanks a lot
January 17th, 2010
1:42 am
Nolie,
Are you ever not on the blog?
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 17th, 2010
1:47 am
The best 9 and 3/4 yr. old pivot man around!
Before I know it, I’ll be Rod Stewart!
uga-brave
January 17th, 2010
1:48 am
cmom, brother from 1985 plus who put out great college music?
the replacements, duh. rem, easy choice. how about the smiths, smithereens, and the church.
athens was full of great music. got to profess i am not a jam band fan.
whoodoo gooroos?
nolie
January 17th, 2010
1:51 am
Shanks, nope. I’m retired and in poor health and this is the only semblance of a like that i have left. Pitifiul, I know.
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 17th, 2010
1:54 am
nolie,
How old are you?
uga-brave
January 17th, 2010
1:55 am
please dont laugh, this i pod thing is really cool. got actung baby rocking my basement. UNTIL THE END OF THE WORLD> great u2 song.
nolie
January 17th, 2010
2:06 am
I’m retired and in poor health and this is the only semblance of a like that i have left. Pitifiul, I know
actually that is just a cover story. In reality I am an AI entity whom my creator has wired into this board on a 24 hour a day basis in order to improve my comprehension, reasoning and communication skills under any possible combination of responses. thank you for asking I hope I have answered your inquiry to your satisfaction. have a good day
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 17th, 2010
2:10 am
Dissing nolie?
That ain’t cool.
Who cares about the amount of his posts? At least he is intelligent, and always brings something to the table. You don’t have to read ‘em, ya know.
nolie
January 17th, 2010
2:33 am
As some of you might have already noticed it appears that I am not yet fully conversant with American idioms. Upon further thought I believe that phrase should have been Have a nice day…
FYi my aunt is the entity who controls the sheriff’s home in EUREKA .
When I grow up and have finished my training, I hope to be as successful as she
Mitchie-san
January 17th, 2010
3:12 am
nolie should be paid and be the moderator. He could take care of the next PL invasion, all the “ballgame”s, all of Robert’s donkey posts and all the Mets trolls that slither in here.
Plus, he does a good job keeping the blog alive when DOB can’t.
Braveheart
January 17th, 2010
5:55 am
nolie is usually not around all that much. seems to make his rounds every 4 or 5 hours, checks in for about a half hour, comments on this and that, before going back to doing whatever the hell else he does
Braveheart
January 17th, 2010
6:39 am
strange replay fraud:
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/17/sports/hockey/17slapshot.html?ref=sports
jeffrey d
January 17th, 2010
8:28 am
I’ll be 16 in 3 months Jurrjens
Whaat?? Here I was thinking you were much older, and now you tell me you can’t even drive yet?
jeffrey d
January 17th, 2010
8:29 am
nolie should be paid and be the moderator
I’d chip in for that
Braveheart
January 17th, 2010
8:30 am
I looked up the history of 14th overall draft picks, which Heyward was, and the two best hitters ever taken in terms of OPS with that pick have been Derrek Lee and Cliff Floyd. If that is all Heyward ever ends up being, will we be satisfied? Or is anything short of Chipper and Hank rolled into one gonna be considered a bust?
http://www.baseball-reference.com/draft/index.cgi?draft_type=junreg&overall_pick=14&query_type=overall_pick
Braveheart
January 17th, 2010
8:32 am
No wonder he thinks Pulp Fiction sucks. He’s still watching Disney movies.
jeffrey d
January 17th, 2010
8:35 am
Braveheart – I remember hearing a lot of people surprised that Heyward fell all the way to 14th overall – and to the hometown Braves for crying out loud. I hate when homers put too much stock in prospects (”I think Heyward will be the first to break the 100 HR in a season barrier!!”), but I can safely say that I think he’ll be much better than Cliff Floyd and probably even Derrek Lee. And Derrek Lee is a pretty good ballplayer.
CB
January 17th, 2010
8:38 am
Braveheart, a Derrek Lee type with a better career avg. would be what I’m thinking, Chipper like in that area.
jeffrey d
January 17th, 2010
8:43 am
Lee has a .284 career average. That’s pretty good
CB
January 17th, 2010
8:47 am
Chipper- .307 career avg.
jeffrey d
January 17th, 2010
8:48 am
It was meant as a joke, but I have to share this because it’s really good. It’s Dwight and Andy from The Office playing John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Counry Roads.” The acoustic guitar along with Andy’s harmony and banjo….ahhh, so good.
I usually side with Toby on the whole pointless Michael vs. Toby feud, but this is the first time I’ve gotten mad at Toby. Let em play, man!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=skkbkoAZrAc&feature=related
jeffrey d
January 17th, 2010
8:50 am
Chipper- .307 career avg.
Like I said, I don’t want to put too much stock into a guy who’s hardly played any AAA games, but I think Heyward can mantain a .300+ average
Braveheart
January 17th, 2010
8:58 am
Looking at Cliff Floyd – 6′4″, 230 pounds – Drafted with the 14th pick in 1991. 3 years later at the age of 20, he’s ranked the #1 prospect by Baseball America, ahead of Chipper, Manny, Arod, Jeter, and Carlos Delgado, who were all ranked in the top 16 that year. Doesn’t really do anything in the majors until he’s 25 years old. Has a strong 5 year prime, and a solid career, putting up an .840 OPS, 119 OPS+. Looks like he finally ran out of gas last season. If that’s how Heyward’s career ends up, is it good enough? Or does he have to be Chipper, Manny, Arod, Jeter, and Delgado?
18 Wheels of Love
January 17th, 2010
9:12 am
More reasons to respect Dale Murphy.
Was just reading the local fish wrapper and they had a one-on-one with Dale Murphy – he’s coming into town to speak in a few weeks…
Anyway, question came up about music on his iPod. Seems the guy is into The Racontuers and Wilco and even has been to see Wilco live.
Oh, and he had 8 kids. 8!
Piedmont Blues
January 17th, 2010
9:15 am
Braveheart,
The hardcore fans might be disappointed if Heyward had Cliff Floyd’s career. But he was an underappreciated player whose effectiveness was damaged by injuries. Had he stayed healthy, we might have viewed his career differently (though to be sure, he was never in the class of Chipper, Manny, et al.). Injuries are always the wild card.
dogsbrekky
January 17th, 2010
9:18 am
Braveheart – I would take JayHey as a Derek Lee equivalent NOW… book it
keylargo
January 17th, 2010
9:28 am
If you want Jason Heyward to turn out more like Chipper Jones, it would be good to notice that CJ played 136 games in A ball, 137 games in AA and 139 in AAA before coming to MLB.
Here are Chipper’s full minor league stats:
http://www.baseball-reference.com/minors/player.cgi?id=jones-005lar
Chopdawg
January 17th, 2010
9:36 am
…& I’d take a Cliff Floyd career at the plate for Heyward right now; career numbers .278/.358/.482, 17 seasons in the bigs, pretty good numbers IMO.
Don’t know enuf about Floyd to know what kind of an OF’er he was; Heyward’s got a great arm in RF.
CHOP
Braveheart
January 17th, 2010
9:42 am
I guess one question we have to ask though is not what will Heyward’s career be, but what will the first 6 or 7 years of his career be, since that is all we are entitled to.
Gibby
January 17th, 2010
9:43 am
Allright I am going to express a lot of my ignorance with this post but If I want the information this is the best way for me to get it.
I have totally gotten out of touch with music in the last 20 years spending most of my time listening to talk radio. I have a satelite radio and would love to know which station plays the bands you guys are always chatting about.
Help cure my ignorance
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
9:49 am
UGA-Brave, got a 4th generation nano last Christmas; prior to that I’d still been using a Sony Discman so don’t feel bad. Now I can’t live without it (the I-pod, not the Discman). Gotta disagree with you about tunes, though; IMO there’s no such thing as good college music. The music I liked in college was the same music I liked at any other time, and it sure as hell wasn’t REM.
Maddux going to the Cubs instead of here kills me; he’s the only one of the “big three” I have any respect for as a person (they were all great pitchers).
Glavine coming back doesn’t bother me; I’m not as angry at him as I used to be after Wren gave him a dose of his own medicine and took him down a peg. And ANYONE who could conceivably take ANY broadcast time away from Chip Carey would be a blessing. I swear I’d rather have Bobcat Goldthwait or Gilbert Gottfried in there.
Smoltz can wear a John Deere cap to the hall as far as I’m concerned.
Greg, why hast thou forsaken us?
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
9:50 am
Gibby, NO station plays the bands they are talking about, which is why they talk about them. Gives them hipster/indie cred. Listen to some of it and you’ll see why it isn’t played.
Braveheart
January 17th, 2010
9:51 am
Here is the list of the 23 outfielders who have ranked in the top 5 in the 20 year history of Baseball America’s Top 100 prospect listing:
Juan Gonzalez, Cliff Floyd, Jeffrey Hammonds, Tim Salmon, Ruben Rivera, Brian Hunter, Andruw Jones, Darin Erstad, Vladimir Guerrero, Ben Grieve, J.D. Drew, Pat Burrell, Vernon Wells, Josh Hamilton, Corey Patterson, Rocco Baldelli, BJ Upton, Delmon Young, Jeremy Hermida, Justin Upton, Jay Bruce, Colby Rasmus, Jason Heyward
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
9:51 am
Ouch, Braveheart; but oh so true.
Gibby
January 17th, 2010
9:52 am
Damn Grinch I was hopin
Lew
January 17th, 2010
9:54 am
Gibby-Depends on what music you mean-we talk about all kinds on here. I think most of we headbangers would agree that the best Hard Rock station is The Boneyard on XM. Someone else might better tell you where to hear Johnny Cash and The Drive By Truckers. Don’t forget XM Home Plate, either. The only music they have is at breaks, but they DO talk some baseball 24 hours a day.
Read an interview with Chipper in Chop Talk a couple months back (not sure when exactly, but after the season ended) and his thoughts on the managerial situation is that the Braves will bring someone in from outside the organization. He gave no concrete reason for this stance, but felt this would be the case. Interesting.
nolie-Never did hear back from you, but did those tips on vitamins and supplements help?
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
10:02 am
Don’t forget liquid metal on XM; sometimes it’s a little too redundant but they do play some good heavy stuff. I usually bounce back and forth between the two, and occasionally some old school gangsta hip-hop if I’ve been burning logs.
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
10:03 am
Hey, now; I do likes me some Johnny Cash.
Gibby
January 17th, 2010
10:04 am
Thanks Lew I will hit the boneyard next time I am in the car. Always have listened to home plate and I like it that much better now that Kennedy and Dibble are no longer together in the afternoon slot. Still kinda painful hearing Dibble defend Canseco everyday.
Maybe that’s why I have a new found interest in music
Braveheart
January 17th, 2010
10:06 am
Smoltz can wear a John Deere cap to the hall as far as I’m concerned.
LOL. Still angry about the time he acted like a turd at the gas station 20 years ago? Maybe Smoltz’ll go in Michael Moore style, sporting his beloved Michigan State hat
Lew
January 17th, 2010
10:10 am
Gibby-Listening to Dibble is painful at any time-not just on XM. Another case of too many jobs available now that there is National Baseball broadcasting and too little available talent. You see it all the time with the Extra Innings package on cable, too. Diluted talent pool.
Gibby
January 17th, 2010
10:10 am
Now you see why I love this blog. Need help with something and you get it. I remember a year or so ago someone wanted advice on cleaning a flat screen and got it. Now as long as I don’t need to know about global warming I am fine. I say that with tongue in cheek
BRAVEFANINOK
January 17th, 2010
10:10 am
Gibby,check out rock@random……xm 161 if you like rock they play a nice mix.
Gibby
January 17th, 2010
10:13 am
I live in the baltimore area so Washington games are one of my choices for baseball on TV Dibble is absolutley terriible calling games. I watch that Muted and listen through my laptop when the braves are on.
And we complain about Chip
Lew
January 17th, 2010
10:14 am
XM also has stations which play almost any kind of music. They have a great blues station, too. I’d like to tell the Denizens to look out for some music by an old college classmate of mine, Dave Perkins, a Blues musician out of Nashville. He just had an album nominated on the original Grammy list, but did not make the final cut (no one did but Derek Trucks, BB, etc.). His cd is called Pistol City Holiness and is damned good. Check it out.
Gibby
January 17th, 2010
10:15 am
Thanks OK. now I have three choices to try
tiger297
January 17th, 2010
10:17 am
DOB
can you send me the link about Eddie or the article…I’m impatient see if I can get it translated first LOL
Piedmont Blues
January 17th, 2010
10:21 am
Gibby,
Outlaw Country plays a lot of the songwriter types DOB likes (McMurtry especially, plus plenty of the Man in Black).
Gibby
January 17th, 2010
10:22 am
Lew whatis bues station you like?
TommyP
January 17th, 2010
10:28 am
Answer to a question last night…
Kentucky just hired their “coach in waiting” in Joker Phillips. I also believe Maryland designated their offensive coordinator a coach in waiting (for some reason).
Rob Dibble has a problem with trying to prove he’s “manly” with too many of his comments. Anyone ever notice that? Everything that comes out of his mouth is an attempt to show he’s a badass. Mike Golic used to be like that but has sort of toned it down.
Guys I hate to listen to….(Dibble is close to this list)….Chris Berman. Boy, can he distract from what’s going on or what? Does ANYONE find him entertaining anymore? Don Sutton…I know a lot on here love this guy but he’s like fingernails on a chalkboard for me.
Gibby
January 17th, 2010
10:30 am
Piedmont Thanks but that is music I already am used to. I am a married man and that one is up my wifes alley. She does control the dial in the car when she is with me. But I have managed to control the remote at home thank goodness. Now my seven year old daughter just got the Nano for Christmas and when she is with me I am listening to Taylor Swift and (with a groan) Miley
Lew
January 17th, 2010
10:32 am
Gibby-I’ll have to check it out. I don’t listen all that often (too many choices and a huge CD collection and when XM and Sirius merged, they changed the station numbers. They even have a station called Hair Nation if you get into the rock from the 80’s. Several metal stations, too.
It was kind of funny. My wife and I went to do errands yesterday and when we stopped to grab some fast food (rare treat these dieting days), there was a Local DJ broadcasting (Classic Rock-I could have given a history lesson on each cut they played). No one even cared. Dude was bored out of his mind and he couldn’t even give comp tickets away. Commercial radio has bitten the big one since satellite radio came along and became standard in so many vehicles.
Lew
January 17th, 2010
10:36 am
TommyP-I’m not a Berman fan either. Wish he’d go Back Back Back and finally disappear over the bleachers and finally clear the stadium wall.
I love his “I went all the way” commercial for Nutrisystem. I’ve lost more weight than he has and stayed on Nutrisystem for an entire week before I gave up and did it on my own. Like to see him knock off almost half of his body weight. That’s what I’m well on the way to doing.
flange1
January 17th, 2010
10:37 am
Did you guys see the latest in the Jose Offerman saga? First he swings a bat at a pitcher and hits the catcher, then in a playoff game as manager he “punches” an ump.
I think he missed, but what is up with this guy?
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=4833375
TommyP
January 17th, 2010
10:37 am
How much is it monthly for satellite radio? I’ve always found that to be a cost that is just not needed…a bit of overkill for the bills. I mainly listen to sports talk radio anyway when I’m in the car.
Gibby
January 17th, 2010
10:37 am
Tommy agree with you about Dibble and Golic, but I do like Golic now. As for Berman I loved him growing up yet now I find his act tiresome which saddens me. Hard to admit I don’t watch ESPN pegame anymore because of it. I initially stopped bacause of Irvin. When they finally cut that cord I tried to go back but Berman annoyed me too much
TommyP
January 17th, 2010
10:41 am
Amen on the Berman comments. I know a lot on here love their music but the “lyrical lead-ins” to EVERYTHING is so ridiculous. It’s not funny. It’s not witty. It’s plain annoying. Every time I’m watching him with other football friends he’ll stutter into one of his, “As the Eagles said, I’ve got an easy peaceful feeling” and we’ll all look at each other with “WTF” looks.
Horrible. On the flip side, Jon Gruden has been incredibly refreshing on MNF.
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
10:43 am
I don’t hold grudges THAT long, WillyWally (though it was an inauspicious beginning, to be sure). As you may have noticed, he’s been acting like a turd ever since he left as well. After 20 years and counting, one might just label him a turd in general and have done with it.
Forgot about that blues station; good stuff. Taylor and Miley? Yikes. Don’t get me wrong; I’d love to see them in a mud wrestling match and I’d treat Taylor like a rack of Fat jack’s ribs if I had the opportunity, but listening to them on purpose? No wonder I never got married.
Uno Ocho
January 17th, 2010
10:46 am
DOB: And by the way, the only college football teams that I can think of that had that arrangement were FSU and Texas. Now only Texas, since Bowden is done at FSU. What other teams you talking about?
Chip Kelly @ Oregon and Joker Phillips @ Kentucky off the top of my head….
I guess I shouldn’t beat around the bush…..Is TP going to be the next manager?
Gibby
January 17th, 2010
10:47 am
Tommy I think it is like 15 a month for the package that includes XM and all sirious channels. When they merged I had XM ad could immdiatley get that package which gave me the NFL and all the Sirious extras. My brother in law had Sirious and I am not sure and when he got the package upgrade it didn’t include Baseball. That might have changed.
of course you still have to by that radio
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
10:47 am
Berman could lose half his body weight by liposuction on his head. Agreed on Gruden, though; a considerable improvement over Kornholer.
tiger297
January 17th, 2010
10:59 am
your with me leather…what a friggin ego
Robert (Chipper Is The Best)
January 17th, 2010
11:01 am
Berman does what Berman does. He has a style that is very love it or hate it. I don’t watch the ESPN pregame simply because the one on the NFL Network is better and so is Fox’s. Now. ESPN’s is better than CBS’.
I’ll say this for the NFL Network’s pregame. Those guys are very honest and very laid back. It is very similar to Fox’s. Sapp and Faulk are very knowledgable. And, I have to admit I like Irvin now. I hated him when he was on ESPN. He came across as annoying and ignorant. But it seems now that he is very knowledgable about what he says but can still deliver it in an entertaining way. I think this is where Berman comes in . Berman didn’t make him better whereas Eisen and Spero and even Stacey Dales makes him better. But, then again I could be better too with Stacey Dales next to me. How do those guys concentrate?
Lew
January 17th, 2010
11:04 am
I got XM because I bought a Chevy five years ago that had it standard and free for a year. I now have a unit in the house and another I pay for a friend. Costs me $36.95 a month but I only get XM that I’m aware of. Never gave a damn about Howard Stern and that was about all XM didn’t have.
Their “Boom Box” unity for the house ran about $100 several years ago. Even with the expense, it beats hell out of commercial radio (I guess unless you like talk radio on the regular stations)-especially if you have long trips in your vehicle-you no longr have to sit there constantly tuning to nebulous local stations that keep going in and out. The only thing that can block the signal is mountains and even up here in the mountains, it ain’t ll that bad. You onlymlost the signal on a couple of stretches of highway for a few seconds.
Tim
January 17th, 2010
11:14 am
I pay 12.95 a month for XM..LOVE IT!
Braves Hall of Fame Members
January 17th, 2010
11:29 am
Braves Hall of Fame Members
http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/atl/ballpark/museum.jsp
Greg Maddux
David Justice
Hank Aaron
Eddie Mathews
Phil Niekro
Warren Spahn
Ralph Garr
Kid Nichols
John Sain
Dale Murphy
Tommy Holmes
Del Crandall
Lew Burdette
Bill Lucas
Skip Caray
Pete Van Wieren
Bill Bartholomay
Ted Turner
Paul Snyder
Ernie Johnson
Any arguments?
Braveheart
January 17th, 2010
11:32 am
Sad to hear Gaines Adams died.
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
11:42 am
Yeah, you left out Time Warner.
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
11:44 am
Yikes; just saw that. Sad to say first thing I thought was “We’d still be better off next season at DE if we’d drafted him instead of Jamaal Anderson that year.”
Ozzie
January 17th, 2010
11:45 am
Wren is not Mr. Nostalgia and he seems to want to put his fingerprints on every element of the org. I think because of this tendency he will select someone outside the org and not someone who was once a Braves coach or staffer.
He is going to either make a PR splash move and get someone like Don Mattingly or pick a manager or coach from a club with a extensive track record of getting to the post season.
I know folks keep mentioning Fredi G and even Yost but that is wishful thinking from loyal fans. Wren is his own man and we will see how much when he picks his next manager.
Pendleton has zero chance and like many current Braves coaches will be leaving with Bobby IMHO.
You might not know this but during ST 2009 Bobby threatened to quit after Wren berated his staff about the 2008 season and outlined the changes he wanted to see in 2009.
Wren is doing the proper PR thing with Bobby and they likely have buried the hatchet but Wren is going to rotor rooter this team’s staff along with a new manager.
We may not want to believe it or see it as feasible but I have a feeling his is on a mission to remake this club in his own image.
I personally would be intrigued by Mattingly but I think in the end he goes for someone who has won something and more than once a long long time ago. Guys who have won nothing (post season wise) or are getting up there in age need not apply.
Chris from the Rock
January 17th, 2010
11:46 am
Another young NFL’er dies. I wonder what cause of death was.
Braveheart
January 17th, 2010
11:47 am
That’s just wrong
Gibby
January 17th, 2010
11:49 am
Grinch, Thanks for the visual about Miley and Swift. Now I have something to help me get through it.
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
11:51 am
Ozzie, I hope you’re right. I’ve met Pendleton and he’s a great guy, but we need some fresh blood in here IMO. I trust Wren as usual to make a good decision.
Chris, since they didn’t mention gunshot wounds I’d be inclined to say cocaine. The dude was a 26 y.o. speed rushing DE; not like he was old and fat. Unless he had some sort of previously undiagnosed congenital defect; that boy was likely hitching the reindeer.
Couch Tater
January 17th, 2010
11:52 am
Analysis: 5 Reasons Why 2010 Will Be Revolutionary For The Music Biz
http://www.billboard.biz/bbbiz/content_display/industry/e3i3fdb706572f41f071570567a5747e1df?imw=Y
More talk, less tunes on conventional radio.
David O'Brien
January 17th, 2010
11:54 am
But, then again I could be better too with Stacey Dales next to me. How do those guys concentrate? — Robert (CITB)
Truer words rarely spoken. She’s very good at her job, and absolutely gorgeous. ESPN’s loss, letting her go.
McFann
January 17th, 2010
11:56 am
Heath As long as it’s not McFann….I think we all agreed she was the blog’s little sis.
Aw, thanks!
Nolie nah, I’m skairt of McFann
As you should be.
she might sic rally turtle on my toes
Well, he’s on vacation right now–went to the Galapagos Islands for the winter. But I’d be sure to give him the message when he got back.
jed mcfann’s spunky–like a young meredith baxter.
Hmm…not sure how to take that. Who is Meredith Baxter?
Braves607
January 17th, 2010
11:57 am
DOB….what number is Melky going to wear? Do you know?
Lew
January 17th, 2010
11:58 am
McFann-Your (lack of) age is showing.
David O'Brien
January 17th, 2010
11:58 am
Thanks for the list of the four college football programs that have recently had coaches-in-waiting. When someone comes up with a list of major league or other professional-sports teams that has done same, we’d be interested. Might be a little more relevant.
Steve from OH
January 17th, 2010
11:59 am
Grinch–would not be surprised if that is the case…
David O'Brien
January 17th, 2010
12:00 pm
I guess I shouldn’t beat around the bush…..Is TP going to be the next manager? — Uno Ocho
Nor should (beat around the bush). I have no idea if TP is going to be the next manager. Again, it’s just too early to know. Why would such a decision be made now when Braves/Wren have no idea who might become available by season’s end? Answer: I don’t think they/he would make such a decision now.
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
12:01 pm
McFann, she was the mom on “Family Ties.” She just came out of the closet recently, which is why I imagine he inserted the “young” part. I can see I’ve missed a bunch during my hiatus from the blog; who is this Rally Turtle? Should we all be afeared?
Gibby, I’m always here for free marriage counciling. Though upon further thought, I’d change the wrestling from mud to Mazola.
David O'Brien
January 17th, 2010
12:07 pm
TommyP: Couldn’t agree more with your 10:41 a.m. about Berman.
Every single year during the NFL stretch run, at least once and usually multiple times: “It’s late September and I really should be back at school…”
And at several points during the season, there’s always the Hotel California reference: “You can check out anytime you like, but you can never leave.” On and on.
VaBraveFan
January 17th, 2010
12:11 pm
I’d like to see Eddie Perez as manager.
Braveheart
January 17th, 2010
12:11 pm
The Rally Turtle is a jinx. That’s who and what the Rally Turtle is. Record under .500 since the first appearance of the dang Rally Turtle.
Braveheart
January 17th, 2010
12:13 pm
When playing highlights of the Hightower TD run from yesterday, Berman went “All along the Hightower, he Hendrixes” them. Friggin’ awful
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
12:13 pm
What up, Steve?
K, I’ve hijacked the blog enough for a bit. Time to fire up the grill in preparation for Cowboys/Vikings. Can’t decide who I can’t stand more; the Cowboys as a franchise or Favre as a person. It’ll be like trying to decide which crappy reality show is worse or which political party produces the least horrible candidate…lose lose situation. At least I can analyze the Bulldogs new DC at work; maybe his boys can make Favre’s retirement decision easy for him this time. Like to see his next Wrangler commercial with him watching the other dudes in the park from an electric wheelchair.
No, that’s terrible. Say, a four-tipped cane.
TheManMike
January 17th, 2010
12:14 pm
DOB
Nice pic of The Dude and his rug and Russian. I watched Conan the other night and Jeff Bridges was on – They showed a clip from his new flick, him in a bowling alley being offered the free night of bowling – good stuff….Not having watched the movie, It was like watching Dude 10 years removed…Also – he appeared to be a bit stoned on the show, great interview…
McFann
January 17th, 2010
12:14 pm
Lew Your (lack of) age is showing.
The Grinch–
Ah, OK…pretty sure I’ve heard of “Family Ties”…sounds familiar…
who is this Rally Turtle?
Well, back in July 2008 I found a Box Turtle and wrote a little paragraph about him on the Blog. That night during the Braves game (a late, West coast game), some of the Denizens started talking about him because the game was getting boring. After that, the Braves had a good rally and they ended up winning 9 to…something…(BMac hit two homers). So I kept the turtle as a Blog character (the real had to stay in the wild), and he was named Rally McTurtle.
Here’s a picture of him: :Ô:
He’s usually right up there next to my name, but like I said, he’s taking his first vacation.
And you should only fear him if you’re real hard on BMac (or me, I s’pose…). See, he’s got this friend who has a nasty temper…
Steve from OH
January 17th, 2010
12:14 pm
Not too much Grinch, just glad we can go back to talking about some ‘ball and some good tunes, finally…
semiballcoach
January 17th, 2010
12:15 pm
maybe instead of looking at physique of pitchers on steroids…..how about looking at velocity before testing and after testing….
could kevin brown’s legendary temper have been due to roid rage?
Steve from OH
January 17th, 2010
12:16 pm
flange1–yeah, I just saw that about Offerman. What an idiot (and a-hole), huh? Got the best job in the world and f’s it up because of anger problems…jeez.
McFann
January 17th, 2010
12:16 pm
Uh-oh…now yer gonna get it, Braveheart!
(His friend also doesn’t like it if you mess with Rally…)
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
12:17 pm
Pronged, I should say; not tipped.
What about Berman referring to Venus and Serena as “Sisters…and also siblings.” He wore that one out almost as much as Stu Scott and “Cooler than the other side of the pillow.”
L8TR
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
12:20 pm
Thank you, McFann. I promise not to mess with either one of you. How odd; a girl that like McCann? (sarcasm) Who knew all one needed to get busy with the ladies is eat chilli cheeseburgers? Hasn’t worked for me so far.
Braveheart
January 17th, 2010
12:21 pm
If I must be sacrificed, then so be it, but either Rally McTurtle or The Chopping Chow needs to go, preferably both. Jinxes. Both of them.
Steve from OH
January 17th, 2010
12:22 pm
What you been up to, Grinch? Good to see ya around again!
Braveheart
January 17th, 2010
12:24 pm
I just saw Keyshawn saying “Revis did this to Randy Moss, I never would have allowed that to happen.” To which Moss should’ve replied, “Hey Keyshawn, shut up, and get back in the slot, you glorified possession receiver.”
Bad Scooter
January 17th, 2010
12:24 pm
Another example of coach in waiting (in college, however) is Syracuse basketball. It is widely speculated, never confirmed by SU, that assistant coach Mike Hopkins agreed to take over for Jim Boeheim, whenever that would be.
Braveheart
January 17th, 2010
12:26 pm
Unfortunately for Offerman, he hits as lightly with his fist as he did with his bat
joerochester
January 17th, 2010
12:26 pm
I can handle Berman, but I cannot handle Shannon Sharpe anymore. He is the most annoying and obnoxious commentator. He interrupts everyone.
Braveheart
January 17th, 2010
12:28 pm
That whole CBS pregame sucks. Marino is boring. Boomer is a bore. Sharpe is a boor.
Rhett
January 17th, 2010
12:32 pm
Berman and Stuart Scott are in a perpetual 1993 time warp…… Somewhere along the line they transformed from occasionally funny sportscasters to bad comedians that sometimes talk about sports. Their material was always marginal and now it just seems kind of sad.
David O'Brien
January 17th, 2010
12:33 pm
Was just reading the local fish wrapper and they had a one-on-one with Dale Murphy – he’s coming into town to speak in a few weeks… Anyway, question came up about music on his iPod. Seems the guy is into The Racontuers and Wilco and even has been to see Wilco live. — 18 Wheels of Love
That’s pne of the most pleasantly surprising things I’ve read here in quite a while. The visual of Murphy rocking to Raconteurs…. I’ll have to talk to Murph about that if he’s in camp again this spring.
Sounds like father-of-eight Murphy must be looking for — what did our returning metalhead friend call it this morning? — oh, yeah, “hipster/indie cred.” (insert emoticon here to diffuse potential tension.)
I wonder where ol’ Murph hears that Wilco and Raconteurs stuff, though, since the metalhead informed us that there are no stations that play the obscure stuff like that and that other obscure hipster band, I think it’s called REM (insert emoticon again here).
But in all seriousness, I love when I hear that someone in their 40s or 50s that I assumed only listens to whatever’s on the local classic-rock station or in their record collection, to hear they’re listening to some newer, different stuff as well. Especially when it’s great stuff like he mentioned (Murph’s been to a Wilco show? That’s tremendous.)
By the way, did you see his son Shawn Murphy, a lineman, play in an NFL game the other day? I think he’s with Tampa Bay, after being drafted by the Dolphins.
Tom O'Hawke
January 17th, 2010
12:33 pm
“Tom O’Hawke (to N8)
While acknowledging that if we have any major injuries (Chipper, Glaus, Hudson, etc….) the team could struggle.
Nate, is there a team that can’t say this? ”
“Yes, there are a few teams that could say that.
Most high payroll teams could have 1 major injury and still be perfectly fine. Look how the Dodgers were when they lost Manny for several months they could plug in Juan Pierre in his lineup spot and be perfectly fine.
Or if they are a high payroll team ……..” —-ugaaccountant (January 16, 9:51am)
ugaaccountant, While I agree with everything in your post, you missed a key part of what N8 and I were talking about. Not a major injury, major injuries, as in multiple ones. (See the 2009 Mets, for example.)
Tom O'Hawke
January 17th, 2010
12:38 pm
I bit off more italics and bold than I can chew. The last part was my reply to ugaaccountant.
David O'Brien
January 17th, 2010
12:40 pm
If I must be sacrificed, then so be it, but either Rally McTurtle or The Chopping Chow needs to go, preferably both. — Braveheart
Agree with your sentiment.
But is that some sort of hybrid beast, the Chik-fil-a animal bred with Norm Chow?
KC
January 17th, 2010
12:45 pm
You guys have a problem with the chopping cow at the Ted??? What are you… commies?? How could you not like the chopping cow?!
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 17th, 2010
12:47 pm
No wonder he thinks Pulp Fiction sucks. He’s still watching Disney movies.
I’ve taken a clear boycott against Disney products of any kind after I found at what an awful company they are. Last Disney movie I’ve seen was probably Toy Story, the first one.
Whaat?? Here I was thinking you were much older, and now you tell me you can’t even drive yet?
I can drive.
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
12:52 pm
The pregame shaows are too much “FavreFavreFavre.” Yuck.
Ha! I see the same things that used to rattle your cage still work, David…delightful! I’m forced to use the emoticons because otherwise people take me too seriously and assume I’m an angry old man like Lew, instead of just stirring the pot because I’m bored. Not that I don’t listen to what I listen to, of course.
Norm Chow may be just what this offense needs.
McFann
January 17th, 2010
12:52 pm
Thanks, Grinch.
How odd; a girl that likes McCann?
And what’s so odd about that?
Who knew all one needed to get busy with the ladies is eat chilli cheeseburgers?
Hey, watch it now…you know what that kind of talk will lead you to…
Besides, it’s the demeanor, face, mussed up hair, and stats that turn me on. Don’t be disgusting!
DOB Agree with your sentiment.
You mean about the cow, right…?
Braveheart
January 17th, 2010
12:52 pm
More talk, less tunes on conventional radio.
Oh, great. Just what we need. They already talk too much, and don’t play enough music, and when they play music, they just play the same 10 crappy songs every hour as it is.
The music people need to let it go. They shouldn’t be trying to make money so much off songs being played on the television or the radio or even from selling cds. That should be the promotional stuff that they for the most part give away to build demand for their concert tours and merchandise. I think if they gave away half of that stuff, they’d make twice as much money (if they were truly talented). But that ain’t the way it is. Seems like the current system is designed to protect the talentless cowardly studio marvels who can’t hack it live without lip syncing and to hurt the truly talented. The Grateful Dead’s business model should be used more. Or even the hip hop model where street teams give away so many mix tapes. You give away bootleg or mix tapes, let more acts be played on the radio, demand builds, people want the real tape or cd, want to buy the merchandise, want to see them perform live, etc. If more acts were heard on the radio, you’d be able to sell more acts instead of just selling the 10 or so selected to be marketed every year, and making money only off of them but no one else. But whatever. Useless and perhaps naive rant on my part
GatorBrave
January 17th, 2010
12:53 pm
Tough loss to swallow for my Cardinals last night, but it was pretty apparant my boys were wore down. Of course, Bush and the Saints might have been to much even with a very rested Cardinal team, but I think it would’ve made things a bit more interesting, for sure. Guess I’ll pull for the Colts or the Chargers, though, I really don’t care much who takes it all now.
Hope Damon is still a real possibility for us, but maybe, just maybe, what we have is enough and then they could possibly make a trade for a good OF during July. By then Heyward should be ready, maybe, and we can make a run to the postseason. Gettin excited for opening day!
McFann
January 17th, 2010
12:55 pm
KC–
No, commies are who like the chopping cow. I mean, look at that arm position: “Zig Heil!” (Or…however you spell that…)
McFann
January 17th, 2010
12:57 pm
Braveheart Oh, great. Just what we need. They already talk too much, and don’t play enough music, and when they play music, they just play the same 10 [cruddy] songs every hour as it is.
That is SO true.
Braveheart
January 17th, 2010
12:58 pm
KC, The Chopping Cow is a symbol of everything wrong with the fan base. Half the time she forgets to chop, probably because she’s on her cell phone. When she remembers to chop, it’s obviously halfhearted because she chops so slowly.
KC
January 17th, 2010
1:01 pm
Braveheart: “she chops so slowly”
When’s the last time you saw a cow do ANYTHING quickly. You’ve heard of racists… You sir are a cowist.
KC
January 17th, 2010
1:02 pm
McFann, I really expected better from you. I can understand some of these other people bashing the cow… but you??? My faith has been destroyed.
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
1:04 pm
Yikes, McFann; I get enough of those suckers down at my pond in warm weather. Snapping turtles that is; not chilli cheeseburgers. And it’s “Seig Heil,” which translates roughly to “Hail Victory.” No, I’m not a Nazi, but I play one on tv (that’s probably before your time too).
Braveheart, not a naive rant, but as long as Clearchannel (speaking of Nazis) is in control of the market you’re gonna hear the same 10 damn songs.
GatorBrave, Warner started looking his age last night after a few good hits. I don’t blame him. Maybe Jesus will tell him and his wife he should retire now after a great career, instead of telling him to take the money like last year.
Kickoff time!
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
1:06 pm
Count me in the minority that like the cow.
KC, that’s unlike you to look at things from a positive angle.
Braveheart
January 17th, 2010
1:06 pm
KC,
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
1:07 pm
As far as seeing cows do something quickly, you should have seen my ex chasing me down the driveway.
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
1:09 pm
Truthfully, I find the whole conversation udderly ridiculous.
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 17th, 2010
1:09 pm
Our record since Rally McTurtle:
109 – 113 with 2 missed playoff appearances.
(BTW, McFann, Braves only scored 8 runs
)
Tom O'Hawke
January 17th, 2010
1:10 pm
If I must be sacrificed, then so be it, but either Rally McTurtle or The Chopping Chow needs to go, preferably both. Jinxes. Both of them.
Braveheart, Wow, man. With one sentence you just ticked off the largest nation on the planet and McFann.
If I were you, I’d be more worried about McFann.
McFann
January 17th, 2010
1:12 pm
KC–
Sorry.
It’s not that I hate the cow…but I could live without it…
Grinch–
Heh heh…sorry. But I did warn you about messin’ with my mann. And it doesn’t take a whole lot to get “it”.
And it’s “Seig Heil,”…
OK, thanks. I knew the “z” thing wasn’t right…
No, I’m not a Nazi, but I play one on tv
Really?
(that’s probably before your time too).
Maybe…but so was “Hogan’s Heroes” and that’s one of my most favorite shows!
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 17th, 2010
1:12 pm
I agree with KC, the cow is cool. It’s unique and know other stadium has it, unlike the coke bottle. When the Braves hit a HR, the fireworks should come out of the cow’s mouth. How badass would that be?
McFann
January 17th, 2010
1:15 pm
JJ4NLCY–
Did I ask you?
And yeah, they actually did score nine runs:
http://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/LAN/LAN200807080.shtml
Tom O’Hawke–
You’re so right…
Betty Draper
January 17th, 2010
1:15 pm
That picture of Boras is hilarious. Is he caught in a fashion time warp?
Salamander
January 17th, 2010
1:15 pm
More talk, less tunes on conventional radio
People still listen to the radio?
Just kidding (sorta). The music that actually gets played on most radio stations sucked when I was a kid, and has only gone downhill since that time (Clear Channel snapping up most independent stations made matters worse).
GSU’s and GA Tech’s stations are pretty good some of the time. Otherwise, I’d rather drive in silence than be subjected to more Crap-leback and other hackneyed mainstream garbage the kids like these days.
VaBraveFan
January 17th, 2010
1:18 pm
I read Mark Bowman saying the Braves wont sign Damon unless he comes around the 1-2 mil price range… lol
How Bout Them Cowboys
January 17th, 2010
1:19 pm
Sorry I’m late. Had a late night last night.
The Romo fumble was nothing. Even if he had not fumbled and was sacked, it would have been 4th down, out of field goal range.
So far, my prediction of pressure on Farve rings true.
How Bout Them Cowboys
January 17th, 2010
1:21 pm
Felix is going to bust one, BANK ON IT!
Braveheart
January 17th, 2010
1:21 pm
Betty Draper, you’re gorgeous, but a whiny lil’ girl. It’s amazing that I get so annoyed whenever a woman that good looking comes on the screen. I’d be glad if she never spoke another word on Mad Men. Betty Draper is to be seen, not to be heard.
cabravesfan
January 17th, 2010
1:23 pm
Is it OK to hope that the Metrodome gets sucked into the depths of hell rather then someone winning this game? (And if I never hear “swollen bursa sac” again, I will be a happy girl…whatever happened to just calling it a bad knee??
)
How Bout Them Cowboys
January 17th, 2010
1:24 pm
Go for it on 4th down.
How Bout Them Cowboys
January 17th, 2010
1:24 pm
Do not like the call. Bad coaching call on 4th down. Wade was supposed to go for it on 4th and 1.
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 17th, 2010
1:25 pm
McFann,
That is the date I thought you were talking about, but they didn’t rally anything, they were winning 7 – 1 in the 8th. He should be named Kickbutt McTurtle or something.
Braves record since Chopping Cow:
122 – 129
Salamander
January 17th, 2010
1:25 pm
As long as the Cowboys lose, today will be a good day (hangover and all).
Venice Jim
January 17th, 2010
1:25 pm
Sometimes it’s scary to be sitting next to her…
But she correctly called the FG attempt wide left…
How Bout Them Cowboys
January 17th, 2010
1:26 pm
Rob in pain from (SC)……….Dallas is moving the ball. I’m not worried about our offense. The big question is can Minnesota give Farve enough time to pass?
How Bout Them Cowboys
January 17th, 2010
1:27 pm
Rob in pain from (SC)………..Also, last week against the Eagles, Dallas had 2 early drives stall inside field goal range…….only to eventually blow the Eagles out. We’ll be fine.
richbrave
January 17th, 2010
1:28 pm
This is boring. There should be gun totin’ displays of anger in the locker-room followed by court action aplenty. I’m going back to the WIZARDS blogs for awhile. Let me know if the BRAVES finally get BORE-ASS to hand over DAMON at our price.
CB
January 17th, 2010
1:28 pm
I’m going to Savannah in Feb. Any good BBQ in that city from my BBQ brethren?
Braveheart
January 17th, 2010
1:28 pm
If it really was the Chopping Chow, Random would never let us get rid of her for fear of offending the Chinese.
Rob in pain from (SC)
January 17th, 2010
1:29 pm
Worried Now
How Bout Them Cowboys
January 17th, 2010
1:30 pm
Cant say much about that other than it being a great throw by Farve. 7-0 is nothing to lose any sleep over. Minnesota is going to need more than 7 points to win the game.
Rob in pain from (SC)
January 17th, 2010
1:30 pm
look at my fellow Gamecock make a play
How Bout Them Cowboys
January 17th, 2010
1:32 pm
Rob in pain from (SC)…….did you see the Saints-Cardinals game yesterday? Didnt Arizona get up 7-0 on an early long touchdown run by Hightower? We all saw what happened yesterday. Farve made a good thrown. It happens.
David O'Brien
January 17th, 2010
1:34 pm
OK, I had my former Sun-Sentinel colleague, Juan Rodriguez, take a look at that link to the Spanish-language newspaper story about Eddie Perez being fired as manager of his team last week during the Venezuelan Winter League playoffs.
Here’s what Juan said:
“Well, the story makes it sound like they fired Eddie for his protection. Says the fans were becoming increasingly violent and so frustrated, impatient and aggressive that the executives felt Eddie might be at risk. They wanted to remove him from the situation to keep something bad from happening.
“The story also mentions an episode Eddie had with third baseman Kenny Perez last Wednesday as factoring in and being the last straw, but doesn’t say what actually happened.
“I’ll do a search, see if I find it.”
Then Juan e-mailed me a follow-up after that search:
“The thing with the two Perezes… Apparently Kenny made a costly error in a loss to Magallanes and Eddie lifted him mid-inning. When Kenny got back to the dugout the two got into it. Sounds like the team defense has sucked all year.”
We thank Juan profusely for the help with that.
OK, me talking now: I would just add that tension and passions run high in winter-league ball, particularly during the playoffs. It’s very big stuff down there.
I was doing some stories on Marlins prospects down in Puerto Rico one winter — where I interviewed Robbie Alomar, by the way; he used to play down there in the winter, as did Javy Lopez — and even during the regular season it was a lively, passion-fueled atmosphere at every game I attended. And that was the Puerto Rican league. It’s more so in Venezuela and the Dominican, from everything I’ve heard.
Rob in pain from (SC)
January 17th, 2010
1:35 pm
How Bout Them Cowboys
I am just busting your chops. Dallas is a good team
David O'Brien
January 17th, 2010
1:40 pm
B raveheart, that 12:58 was funny. And, unfortunately, largely true.
joerochester
January 17th, 2010
1:41 pm
So far the playoff games have sucked. Hope these two are better.
McFann
January 17th, 2010
1:41 pm
JJ4NLCY–
Well, I think it was like…the fifth inning when they started talking about my Turtle.
Ha! And only 4 under with McTurtle…SEVEN under with the cow!
Bravesheart Random would never let us get rid of her for fear of offending the Chinese.
Who cares about them? We’re talkin’ about offending a little turtle otherwise!
Bigot…
David O'Brien
January 17th, 2010
1:43 pm
Ha! I see the same things that used to rattle your cage still work, David…delightful! I’m forced to use the emoticons because otherwise people take me too seriously and assume I’m an angry old man like Lew…. — Grinch
Not true. Anyone who’s met you knows you’re not an old man.
Tom O'Hawke
January 17th, 2010
1:44 pm
Hey Braves_Fan_RSD , I see on your other site that you are currently only givng the Braves a 19.1% chance of making the playoffs. 4 teams make the playoffs, from the NL, out of 16. That’s 1 in 4, or 25%. If everything is equal, all teams would have a 25% chance of making the playoffs (in the NL). So, are you saying, that right now, you think that the Braves’ chances of making the playoffs, are that much less than equal? — (me, @ 2:36 am, Jan. 16)
Even though 4 teams make the playoffs, the Braves only have 2 ways to get there. Win the NL east or the wildcard. So, it is 2 in 14(1 in 7) chance not 1 in 4. If everything were equal. But with the Phils in our division, it really is more like a 1 in 13 chance. We will need lots of ifs to go our way and some luck to make the playoffs this year. —- ColoradoBravesFan — (1:17 pm)
I disagree with you, ColoradoBravesFan. There are only 5 teams in our division. That is a 1 in 5 chance, just in winning (if everything is equal). Adding the odds of winning the wildcard (1 in 13), that brings their playoff hopes to a little better than 27%, or slightly better than 1 in 4. That is according to my figuring (I once got a “C” on a 3rd grade math test, so there!)
If William & Mary’s Jim, takes a minute to look this over, we may know for sure.
How Bout Them Cowboys
January 17th, 2010
1:45 pm
Points on the board. We’re moving the ball on Minnesota. We just need to figure out how to punch it in against these guys. We will. It isnt like Minnesota has shown that they can stop us from moving the ball.
Let’s see if our defense can answer the challenge and give us the ball back.
Venice Jim
January 17th, 2010
1:48 pm
Tom O – assuming everyone has an equal chance of winning each game, you are correct. The 2 in 14 is particularly strange…
How Bout Them Cowboys
January 17th, 2010
1:50 pm
Rob in pain from (SC) ………….I have lots of respect for Farve. I never said that today’s game would be easy. However as the game wears on, I expect the better Dallas game to put it away.
Soph
January 17th, 2010
1:51 pm
This game is such a lose-lose for me.
Tom O'Hawke
January 17th, 2010
1:54 pm
Tom O – assuming everyone has an equal chance of winning each game, you are correct. The 2 in 14 is particularly strange…
Thanks, Jim. Maybe it’s his thin Colorado air.
Rob in pain from (SC)
January 17th, 2010
1:55 pm
Minnesota seems to be moving the ball at will too
Rob in pain from (SC)
January 17th, 2010
1:56 pm
Rice, my fellow USC Gamecock is having a huge game
Tomahawkin
January 17th, 2010
1:56 pm
Hell Yeah!
To all the Bandwagon Cowboys Fans!
“Ho Sit Down!”
David O'Brien
January 17th, 2010
1:57 pm
N8: Yeah, but let’s see how Favre will hold up through December….
(couldn’t resist, man — the 40-year-old QB is rather remarkable.)
N8
January 17th, 2010
1:58 pm
How Bout Them Cowboys, you keep talking about Dallas moving the ball on the Vikings, yet have failed to acknowledge that the #1 defense is getting shredded right now.
I’d worry more about stopping the Vikings at this point. Because this has the makings of a blowout about to happen.
(don’t think we don’t know who you are, either)
cabravesfan
January 17th, 2010
1:58 pm
This game is such a lose-lose for me
Soph-
You may have redeemed yourself forever with that comment
TommyP
January 17th, 2010
1:58 pm
Favre has savvy down to a T. He still amazes me.
TnBrian
January 17th, 2010
1:59 pm
Rob, you’re still in pain? Man, maybe they’re giving you some crap pain killers, or they just gave you a bad doctor. Just sayin … trying to help out. LOL
Tom O'Hawke
January 17th, 2010
2:01 pm
Is it OK to hope that the Metrodome gets sucked into the depths of hell rather then someone winning this game?
cabravesfan, as a Packer fan and a Cowboy hater, I agree with you. This is, for me, like watching a Mets vs. Yankees’ game. I guess because of Favre, I’m probably leaning toward the Vikes. (I know you don’t agree with that!)
TnBrian
January 17th, 2010
2:02 pm
N8, yes, Cowboy hater here too. Never liked them for as long as I can remember, but I’m trying to find a reason to like the Vikings. Favre, I guess. Manning and the Colts would be my choice to go against the Vikings because I’d like to see a Favre/Manning showdown in the superbowl.
N8
January 17th, 2010
2:02 pm
DOB, totally agree. Hey. I was wrong. What more can I say? I’ve admitted it since it was obvious that he wasn’t going to go down due to injury.
Still don’t like how he handled it. Also stil think that had the Vikings focused on their running game, they still could have been a force without Favre, due to that defense. But he certainly has made them more potent, and unpredictable.
But as I’ve stated for two weeks arguing with P.L., there isn’t and wasn’t a chance in hell of the Vikings losing this game. And they’re showing why I was right. Unless of course, Childress gets stupid with a big lead, and continues to have Favre sling it around, risking quick score “pick-6’s”, which Favre is capable of firing at any moment.
But it looks as though the Viqueens are headed to N.O. for the NFC title game.
Rob in pain from (SC)
January 17th, 2010
2:03 pm
How Bout Them Cowboys
Time to start worrying
Salamander
January 17th, 2010
2:03 pm
(don’t think we don’t know who you are, either)
My thoughts exactly. Go Vikings (this week).
N8
January 17th, 2010
2:03 pm
And there’s Jared Allen. Dallas is done.
cabravesfan
January 17th, 2010
2:03 pm
I guess because of Favre, I’m probably leaning toward the Vikes
I did say if The Quarterback somehow left the game and did not return I would cheer for the Vikes…otherwise I am just going to wait patiently for the Chargers game…
cabravesfan
January 17th, 2010
2:04 pm
and maybe for everyone to catch swine flu at halftime…
Braveheart
January 17th, 2010
2:04 pm
Yeah, but you know Favre will eventually have his inevitable “I drink your milkshake” moment. Like Daniel Day Lewis in There Will Be Blood, so poised, so mesmerizing, so in control, but he can’t resist having that what the hell over the top moment.
Rob, still sore, from (SC)
January 17th, 2010
2:05 pm
TnBrian
I am not taking anymore pain killers. I am not in pain as much as I am sore because of the physical therapy. I changed my name for you. I had a great doctor. However I have sever screws/anchors in my arm. I am trying to get my range of motion back to where it used to be.
joerochester
January 17th, 2010
2:05 pm
“I drink it up!”
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
2:07 pm
This game sucks. Tom O’ Hawke, how did he piss off China with that comment?
JJ, if the sparks came out the other end of the cow, it’d be even more badass, though perhaps a bit harder on the fans underneath.
Sticks and stones, David. You’re just jealous you don’t have my ripped abs.
I’ll trade you my secret for the mirrored sunglasses with the mirrors on the inside.
Efrim
January 17th, 2010
2:07 pm
I’m not a Favre fan, but I love to see Dallas lose.
Steve from OH
January 17th, 2010
2:09 pm
I’m not a Favre fan, but I love to see Dallas lose
Me too. You watching the Wings-Hawks game on NBC?
TommyP
January 17th, 2010
2:10 pm
Barbeque gets talked about on here, music is discussed on a regular basis….what about your “drink of choice”?????
What’s everyone drink? Personally, I love beer but occasionally have the mixed drink.
Whatcha drankin’ on a playoff Sunday afternoon?
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
2:12 pm
What I was hoping for was Favre getting a career ending injury on the first play, then Tavaris Jackson comming in and leading the Vikes to a 41-0 win. Oh, well.
Thanks for getting that song “Milkshake” in my head, BH. Dammit. I owe you one.
joerochester
January 17th, 2010
2:12 pm
1. Dos Equis
2. Molson Canadian
3. Seven and Seven
4. Captain and Cherry Coke
5. Gin and Tonic
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
2:13 pm
Sam Adams Imperial White, at the moment. It helps me keep my figure.
Tom O'Hawke
January 17th, 2010
2:14 pm
cabravesfan,
Remind me never to get on your bad side.
Favre playing for the Vikings reminds me of when Glavine was pitching for the Mets. Any team but!!! The other thing that annoys me about Favre is that he doesn’t even know how to spell his name correctly!
Tomahawkin
January 17th, 2010
2:14 pm
“I’m not a Favre fan, but I love to see Dallas lose”
Co-sign! But Brett Favre next to P. Manning has been the best QB of the De-Generation X Generation….
joerochester
January 17th, 2010
2:14 pm
Jurrjens… what are you drinking Strawberry or Chocolate Milk?
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
2:15 pm
Joe, you’re gonna get a hell of a hangover mixing all that before the sun even goes down.
cabravesfan
January 17th, 2010
2:15 pm
Tom-
I’m not sure you could ever get on my bad side
(and if those are the only two things that bother you about The Quarterback, I’m not sure there is any hope for you…)
joerochester
January 17th, 2010
2:16 pm
lol… sorry, I misread. I thought he said what drinks do you like.
keylargo
January 17th, 2010
2:16 pm
(don’t think we don’t know who you are, either) N8
Inspector Clouseau would have this one figured out.
Tomahawkin
January 17th, 2010
2:17 pm
TommyP
If I’m at the house then its Natty Ice or Bud Ice (especially for Beer Pong)
If I’m out then its Tokyo Tea, It gets you tuned up quick!
TnBrian
January 17th, 2010
2:17 pm
Rob, it was a joke, I promise. Last thing I am or would want to be is a blog bully. What’s more of a coward, you know … LOL! Anyways, get well soon. From SC myself, Sumter.
TommyP
January 17th, 2010
2:17 pm
Michelob Light today.
Gin and tonic is my liquor drink of choice but with a slight twist. Orange-twisted gin with cherry flavored tonic water. Tastes like a “dreamsicle.” I call it a “Gin-sicle.”
Heyward
January 17th, 2010
2:18 pm
What is tokyo tea?
Venice Jim
January 17th, 2010
2:18 pm
Tom O – if you have access to today’s Pearls Before Swine, that would give you an indication of what it’s like to play a game with cabravesfan…
Tom O'Hawke
January 17th, 2010
2:20 pm
… Tom O’ Hawke, how did he piss off China with that comment?
The Grinch, It was with his typo, Chopping Chow.
TommyP
January 17th, 2010
2:22 pm
Yeah, what IS Tokyo Tea?
DaveC
January 17th, 2010
2:24 pm
CB
Johnny Harris on Victory Dr,Great bbq and prime rib.
If you want a really good burger in the old downtown area try the Crystal Beer Parlor.
Tom O'Hawke
January 17th, 2010
2:26 pm
Tom-
I’m not sure you could ever get on my bad side —– cabravesfan
Jim, if you ever find yourself in cabravesfan’s dog house (hmm, I guess you always are ,,, ), I mean figuratively, let me know. Maybe I can give you some pointers.
I’ll check out “Pearls” in a little while.
Heyward
January 17th, 2010
2:27 pm
Tokyo Tea—
1/2 oz vodka
1/2 oz rum
1/2 oz gin
1/2 oz 1800® Tequila
1/2 oz triple sec
1 oz Midori® melon liqueur
I can see how it would get you going
Braves_Fan_RSD
January 17th, 2010
2:27 pm
The Grinch, It was with his typo, Chopping Chow.
after all this im curious of what a hybrid Cow Norm Chow would look like Photoshop here I come be right back with the results lol
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
2:27 pm
I think Tokyo Tea is a movie I saw on a porn tube.
I see now, Tom; silly me. Though one could argue chow is served off the chuck wagon on the trail and at military bases everywhere three times a day. Now, if he had said “Chopping Lo-Mein…”
joerochester
January 17th, 2010
2:28 pm
What’s a tokyo tea cost out at the bar, like $10 per drink???
Tomahawkin
January 17th, 2010
2:29 pm
TommyP
Tokyo Tea is a Long Island with Midori Liqeour, Triple Sec, and Sprite in it instead of Coke. It’s sweeter and chicks love it because it is not aas bitter as with the coke in it. Not to mention it gets you tuned up quick
Heath
January 17th, 2010
2:29 pm
Shanks a lot -
Even he would find a way to make it unpleasant to rub it in that the Cowboys are losing. I prefer it that he is no longer on the blog and that we just know that he dislikes the current score.
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
2:31 pm
Pointers are hunting dogs…how would that help him out of her dog house? Unless you’re going to train him to tree coons.
Efrim
January 17th, 2010
2:31 pm
Me too. You watching the Wings-Hawks game on NBC?
I’ve been back and forth. Good to see the NBC boradcasts of the NHL starting up again.
Heath
January 17th, 2010
2:33 pm
What is a “Brooklyn Strike” in bowling?
keylargo
January 17th, 2010
2:33 pm
Trivia Question (Google not allowed)
Name the original four Purple People Eaters
David O'Brien
January 17th, 2010
2:34 pm
Grinch, I was thinking the same thing about Tokyo Tea….
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
2:34 pm
I just stick with old tried and true at the bar; Turkey on the rocks with a draft back, or shots of Patron if I’m not driving. It gets me tuned up.
Tomahawkin
January 17th, 2010
2:34 pm
You guys have me thinking of Chinese Food…
There is this stir fry Buffett next to Atlantic Station (I forgot the name of it) that has the best stir fry…
I mean their stir fry buffet is off the Chain and its inexpensive
D.O.B. and all others does anyone dine in Buckhead…There is this place called Fugo De Chao, that is the best Brazialian Steakhouse Buffett, hands down!
David O'Brien
January 17th, 2010
2:36 pm
keylargo: Carl Eller, Alan Page, Jim Marshall, and I can’t think of the fourth.
joerochester
January 17th, 2010
2:36 pm
THey just opened this new local joint near me called PF Changs. Menu looks good, thinking about trying it out.
Tomahawkin
January 17th, 2010
2:38 pm
Grinch!
I don’t Mess with that Brown Liquor, Hell-To-The-Naw…!
That stuff makes me aggressive
I try not to mess with Patron either, that stuff has me doing crazy mess…!
Time to bump some Naughty by Nature “Uptown Anthem” that junk still be ridin!
Andy K.
January 17th, 2010
2:39 pm
joerochester, i’ve been to Changs….the one by the mall in victor i think…it’s awesome…good food
Tomahawkin
January 17th, 2010
2:39 pm
JoeRochester
PFChangs is the Isht…! I went to one when I lived in Boca Raton Fl and it was off the Chain
cabravesfan
January 17th, 2010
2:40 pm
Tom-
If VJ ever gets on my bad side I’m just going to let my drunken three legged dog eat him while he sleeps
Heath
January 17th, 2010
2:41 pm
I don’t do hard liquor anymore…let’s just say that it’s better that way.
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
2:41 pm
Great minds think alike…well, ours do anyway.
Joe, are you kidding about P.F. Chang’s? It’s a chain place. Good food though.
I’ve heard of that Brazillian place, T; been wanting to check it out. Sounds like a place you can get the meat sweats.
joerochester
January 17th, 2010
2:42 pm
Yeah, I was kidding about the local joint stuff…but I do want to go there. Heard pretty good stuff about it.
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 17th, 2010
2:42 pm
JJ, if the sparks came out the other end of the cow, it’d be even more badass, though perhaps a bit harder on the fans underneath.
Well, It certainly would symbolize my feeling towards Chik Fil A.
Rob,
Geeze, Man I still feel bad for ya, I really hope you get better.
Heath
January 17th, 2010
2:43 pm
I was not that impressed with P.F. Changs… for what it’s worth.
ncgary
January 17th, 2010
2:43 pm
eller and page and duh duh duh
Thanagar
January 17th, 2010
2:43 pm
The mystery Cowboys fan has mysteriously stopped his postings.
keylargo
January 17th, 2010
2:43 pm
* Defensive tackle Alan Page, 9 Pro Bowl Selections (1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976), NFL MVP (1971), Hall of Fame[2]
* Defensive end Carl Eller, 6 Pro Bowl Selections (1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1973, 1974), Hall of Fame[3]
* Defensive end Jim Marshall, 2 Pro Bowl Selections (1968, 1969)[4]
* Defensive tackle Gary Larsen, 2 Pro Bowl Selections (1969, 1970)[5]
David O'Brien
January 17th, 2010
2:43 pm
Joe Buck just said, “We’re back at Mall of America Field at the Humbert Humphrey Metrodome, and here’s the Burger King halftime stats…”
Wish it could’ve been Skip Caray saying that. He’d have had a great smarta$$ comment.
Steve from OH
January 17th, 2010
2:45 pm
joe–this PF Chang’s ?
http://www.southparkstudios.com/episodes/111250/?autoplay=false
Harold
January 17th, 2010
2:46 pm
joerochester- They opened one in Huntsville, AL recently and it is good.
TnBrian
January 17th, 2010
2:50 pm
We ate at PF Chang’s out at the mall here and I can’t get over the smelly soup they give you. Smells and taste like dirty socks. (It’s coming, I know it is ….) But- it’s pretty bad.
DOB, never thought to ask and I’m not sure if anybody has, but are you a Cowboy’s fan in any way? And wouldn’t a Favre/Manning showdown at Superbowl be something?
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
2:50 pm
Heath, I find the quality varies from location to location like most chain places. When it’s off, it’s not worth it. But when they open a new one they’re usually on for a while, IMO.
Gary Larson was also a pro bowl DT? Awesome! No wonder his mind’s so twisted…I’m sure he’d have something to say about cows too.
Tomahawkin
January 17th, 2010
2:50 pm
D.O.B.
Co-Sign on your last post!
Blow Buck is gonna make every excuse available to defend Tony Homo…
But I like Aikman, he knows his stuff even though people think he’s biased
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
2:53 pm
You were wong for that, Steve…(yes, the typo was intentional)
cabravesfan
January 17th, 2010
2:53 pm
Nice to see the real Tony Romo return in time for this game today…
Tom O'Hawke
January 17th, 2010
2:54 pm
Man, one phone call and I fall thousands of posts behind.
Now, if he had said “Chopping Lo-Mein…”
Grinch, man, that would have been the mother of all typos.
AustinBrave
January 17th, 2010
2:54 pm
David- Me and some buddies are coming down to spring training on March 10th thru 13th. We want to go over to Tampa on Thursday and see the Braves and Yankees. Do you think we need to get advance tickets or should we beable to buy there.
18 Wheels of Love
January 17th, 2010
2:54 pm
Try a John Daly
Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka and Lemonade
Andrew in PA
January 17th, 2010
2:55 pm
LETS GO VIKINGS….
cabravesfan
January 17th, 2010
2:55 pm
Hey Dallas- how’s that switch at PK going for you? Dude got cut by Washington…what made you think he’d show up and start making kicks for you?
CB
January 17th, 2010
2:57 pm
DaveC, thanks- we will try.
Tom O'Hawke
January 17th, 2010
3:04 pm
What is a “Brooklyn Strike” in bowling? —- Heath
The same as a “jersey-strike”. Old bowling term that originated in NY. It means collecting a strike by crossing over to the opposite side of the head pin. For a righty, it would be hitting the lefty’s pocket.
I’m assuming that most of the country would just call it a “crossover-strike”. (Except in San Francisco. I believe there it’s called a “bi-strike”.
Tomahawkin
January 17th, 2010
3:05 pm
FYI to All
The Cupid Shuffle is the worst song in existance!
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
3:05 pm
Indeed, Tom; I thought that as I said it. But you know what they say about monkeys, typewriters and Shakespeare. I could happen. I mean look at some of the colums written at the AJC, for example.
I thought a John Daly was waking up behind a dumpster with nothing on but a dirty pair of jeans.
David O'Brien
January 17th, 2010
3:06 pm
AustinBrave: Yankees sell out some games
, but not that many.They have the largest stadium in spring training. Plus I don’t think Braves are one of their biggest draws.Addendum: I just checked and Yankees sell out most games at Legends Field, not just some. And especially since they’re defending champions and all … if I were you I’d buy in advance, to be safe. But I’m sure you can probably scalp tix even if it sells out.
joerochester
January 17th, 2010
3:06 pm
Minnesota has like 8 sacks, right?
ncgary
January 17th, 2010
3:07 pm
no that would be ring my bell
Poorbrave
January 17th, 2010
3:08 pm
Ozzie agree with your blog yesterday on Wren picking next years Manager.
Here is my list or my $.o2 worth. Believe they would make good mgrs. each has the baseball smarts.
Greg Walker hitting coach White Sox
Jose Oquendo 3rd base coach Cards
John Farrell pitching coach Red Sox
Don Mattingly hitting coach Dodgers
Go Favre! Go Vikings!
Steve from OH
January 17th, 2010
3:08 pm
Red Wings-Blackhawks going to a shootout on NBC, if anyone cares…
TommyP
January 17th, 2010
3:09 pm
Is anyone else pulling for Dallas? I mean, c’mon, let’s have a close game already!
Steve from OH
January 17th, 2010
3:09 pm
Poorbrave–John Farrell would be a great choice.
BravesAC
January 17th, 2010
3:11 pm
DOB -
Joe Buck just said, “We’re back at Mall of America Field at the Humbert Humphrey Metrodome, and here’s the Burger King halftime stats…”
Skip would have at least said “Joe Buck just said, “We’re back at Mall of America Field at the Humbert Humphrey Metrodome, and we’re headed to the foodcourt for the Burger King halftime stats…you know Joe, I’d prefer the loung myself”
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
3:12 pm
Joe, they have 53, just like every other team. Or were you referring to the defensive statistic?
TommyP
January 17th, 2010
3:13 pm
So hard to predict prospective managers.
In the NFL, it’s easy to look at the hot coordinators based on offensive or defensive team stats.
In the NBA, which old guy hasn’t coached more than 2 teams????
In the NHL….wait a minute, do they still exist?
In MLB, honestly, isn’t it, “Which guy has the ear of multi-millionairres????????
Tom O'Hawke
January 17th, 2010
3:13 pm
Tom-
If VJ ever gets on my bad side I’m just going to let my drunken three legged dog eat him while he sleeps —- cabravesfan
I’m betting that would probably teach him.
AustinBrave
January 17th, 2010
3:14 pm
Thanks Dave. I will go ahead a buy.
TommyP
January 17th, 2010
3:14 pm
Nah….Skip would’ve followed all of those sponsors by saying, “And I’m Skip Caray, sponsored by Banquet Chicken TV dinners.”
Poorbrave
January 17th, 2010
3:15 pm
Agree Steve. I didn’t put them in order I’d pick but John would be 1st out of the 4.
Fred
January 17th, 2010
3:17 pm
Tomahawkin, The Asian stir-fry place you mentioned is called Chow Baby, http://www.therealchowbaby.com/ . It’s a great restaurant that has 2 Atlanta locations, one off Northside drive by Ikea and the other at the Galleria. I highly recommend this restaurant to those in the Atlanta area.
TommyP
January 17th, 2010
3:19 pm
That’s embarrassing, Romo.
joerochester
January 17th, 2010
3:19 pm
The closest IKEA to me is in Canada.
Tomahawkin
January 17th, 2010
3:19 pm
Ballgame!
Ha Ha!
I’m enjoying this a..s whippin!
TommyP
January 17th, 2010
3:24 pm
This sucks. One NFL playoff game has been interesting. One.
Warm-weather/Dome teams are taking over the NFL.
Heath
January 17th, 2010
3:24 pm
You wanna know what I think if the NFL games?….. I’m watchin’ Wrold’s Strongest Man on ESPN!
Heyward
January 17th, 2010
3:25 pm
IKEA, will never buy from them again….they don’t hardly ship anything to you…don’t get that….Did my entire kitchen cabinets with IKEA sent my girl to atlanta to pick it all up, she decides she is going to try and eat in the middle or rush hour traffic on 75 and totals my truck plowing into someone
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
3:27 pm
Speaking of chicken, does Tony Romo eat it fried and forget to wash his hands before every playoff game? Good god! Not that I’m complaining, mind you.
Venice Jim
January 17th, 2010
3:27 pm
Tom O – Nala likes me too much…
Tomahawkin
January 17th, 2010
3:28 pm
Fred….
Yeah That’s It…I love that place I went to the one on N-side Drive…
Best stir fry in the “A” Nuff Said and Thanks
Andrew in PA
January 17th, 2010
3:29 pm
shut up grinch you were all over his balls for the last 4 or 5 weeks, what’d you expect him to win the super bowl? yeah right
Andrew in PA
January 17th, 2010
3:29 pm
there you go jimmy kennedy from penn state
Tomahawkin
January 17th, 2010
3:30 pm
Tony Homo Goes Down Again…!
Ha Ha!!!
Tomahawkin
January 17th, 2010
3:32 pm
I’m Ready to hear Skip Bayless Bash the Hell out of Tony Homo 2morrow moring on BSPN…
Ha Ha!
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
3:32 pm
Andrew, the “Grinch” you’re referring to has been banned from the AJC for impersonating me so I’ll forgive you that comment. I’ve only been back about four days. Nice to meet you. And I’ve always disliked Romo.
Fred
January 17th, 2010
3:33 pm
joerochester, Sorry the closest IKEA for you is in Canada. But at least you are close to Ted’s (best hot dogs ever)! I imagine Ted’s is worth the trek to Buffalo, especially if you combine that with Anderson’s soft serve for dessert.
Tomahawkin
January 17th, 2010
3:34 pm
Blow Buck and Aikman are sad…!
You can hear it in their demeanor while they talk…
This is Funny!
hmmmmmmmmmmmm
January 17th, 2010
3:36 pm
DOB- Any chance the Braves go back to carrying 10-11 pitchers since Gwinnett is so close in order to add some bench pop/help. Seems with the injury history of the regulars they may need it.
ncgary
January 17th, 2010
3:36 pm
thats the way to walk one in
Tom O'Hawke
January 17th, 2010
3:38 pm
Tom O – Nala likes me too much…
Who can blame her, Jim? The dog has good taste. Let’s just hope that you don’t.
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
3:38 pm
But I like Favre even less. Crap, now he’s never gonna retire. Or rather, quit hijacking multiple teams and unretiring.
keylargo
January 17th, 2010
3:38 pm
DOB – can you unban someone? Just for a little bit and then reban them?
Efrim
January 17th, 2010
3:40 pm
Nice to see the real Tony Romo return in time for this game today…
Yup. So much for the Cowboys.
tiger297
January 17th, 2010
3:43 pm
lol@keylargo I was thinking the same thing although as a narcissist he is probably monitoring the blog and getting his stroke on knowing we are still talking about him even though he isn’t here
BRAVEFANINOK
January 17th, 2010
3:47 pm
Jerry Jones is lookin nervous as he paces the sideline……
Couch Tater
January 17th, 2010
3:47 pm
They showed Prince in the skybox. He’s 11 years older than Favre.
Dang, where’s my Motrin?
Tomahawkin
January 17th, 2010
3:48 pm
Where is Bush at? And I think Jerry Jones needs to leave the Homerdome
keylargo
January 17th, 2010
3:52 pm
tiger297 – I have never pulled against the Cowboys – until the banned one came around. I bet he alienates people in the same way with the Braves.
Andrew in PA
January 17th, 2010
3:52 pm
you cant even say s*ck on this blog …thats pretty weak DOB
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
3:52 pm
He didn’t look nervous to me, he looked like he wanted to fire someone.
keylargo
January 17th, 2010
3:53 pm
Romo has more yardage throwing underhanded today.
Tomahawkin
January 17th, 2010
3:54 pm
BSPN and Blow Buck are thinking of all the ways to make excuses right now to defend Tony Homo
The guy flat out sucks under pressure
David O'Brien
January 17th, 2010
3:55 pm
Andrew, I don’t come up with all the words that are banned on the blog, but I didn’t realize you couldn’t say “sucks.” Actually, I think you’re wrong. You probably said something else in the same comment.
Anyway, sorry if it’s interfered with your ability to comment. Try again, maybe it’ll go through.
Braveheart
January 17th, 2010
3:55 pm
Why are Favre and Peterson and Rice still on the field?
Tom O'Hawke
January 17th, 2010
3:56 pm
tiger297 – I have never pulled against the Cowboys – until the banned one came around. I bet he alienates people in the same way with the Braves
keylargo, if he was around here much longer, I would be rooting for the Mets.
Tomahawkin
January 17th, 2010
3:57 pm
‘Mall of America Field”?
Shut up Blow Buck!
David O'Brien
January 17th, 2010
3:59 pm
tiger297: I’m fairly confident you’re right. Unfortunately, doesn’t stop some from doing just that.
Braveheart
January 17th, 2010
4:00 pm
Keith Brooking, STFU
ncgary
January 17th, 2010
4:00 pm
rubbing it in now , wtg favre
Heath
January 17th, 2010
4:00 pm
So….with today’s score, there really hasn’t been a close game yet in this week’s NFL play-offs. *Yawn*
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
4:01 pm
David, were you at the Leonard Cohen show at the Fox? It was awesome. Made me order “Live from London” and the “Isle of Wight” DVD. We do at least agree on him, don’t we?
David O'Brien
January 17th, 2010
4:01 pm
Braveheart: I guess they’re still on the field so they can do more of that. Favre, 40 yrs old and four touchdown passes today. Dude is unreal.
By the way, Keith Brookings is a tough guy, but I dare say he would get his arse kicked by Jared Allen. Might not want to nip at that dude’s heels.
Soph
January 17th, 2010
4:02 pm
Keith Brooking, STFU
Well said.
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
4:03 pm
Brooking’s doing just fine getting his arse kicked by his own ego.
Tomahawkin
January 17th, 2010
4:03 pm
To All Bandwagon Cowboys Fans
Do me a favor and take that A..s whippin like a Man!
David O'Brien
January 17th, 2010
4:03 pm
Grinch: Yes, that was one of the best shows I’ve seen in years. Cohen’s still got it, in full. What a performance the man puts on.
richbrave
January 17th, 2010
4:04 pm
Wasn’t COLT BRENNAN something like FAVRE? Wonder why the REDSKINS don’t develop him along those lines. Anyway, great to see the ‘BOYS undressed and punked before a national audiance. Ha,ha,ha,ha. Wait ’till next year DALLAS.
Braveheart
January 17th, 2010
4:10 pm
Wasn’t COLT BRENNAN something like FAVRE? Wonder why the REDSKINS don’t develop him along those lines.
Maybe because after all these years the Redskins are still trying to figure out a way to unpeel Colt Brennan off the floor of the Superdome after that brutal licking the Dawgs laid on him.
Colt Brennan and Brett Favre in the same sentence. Something I thought I’d never see.
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
4:11 pm
I’d argue his voice is even better than it was when he was young. I’m hoping whiskey will do the same for mine.
The Grinch
January 17th, 2010
4:13 pm
Man, I felt for poor Colt during that game. He was gettin’ hit high and low damn near every time he dropped back. Hope our D gets back to that level under Grantham.
Heath
January 17th, 2010
4:16 pm
Andrew in PA -
Hopefully in a couple of months he’ll be removed from our memories too.
Jurrjens4NLCY
January 17th, 2010
4:16 pm
Hawks win! Hawks win! The Blackhawks win!!!
Tomahawkin
January 17th, 2010
4:20 pm
The Chargers win 27-21 ‘Bank On It!”
I’m on that Super-Chargers Bandwagon….!
joerochester
January 17th, 2010
4:21 pm
Did Brett Favre take incredible care of his body over the years; is he a freak of nature; or is he just lucky; or all three.
Which of those explains how he is able to still play at this level?
Heath
January 17th, 2010
4:22 pm
Andrew in PA -
Cumulative effect.
Braveheart
January 17th, 2010
4:22 pm
SEC defenses endanger the health of any QB named Colt
David O'Brien
January 17th, 2010
4:25 pm
Heath, normally I’d say you’re missing out not watching the NFL playoffs, but this year there have been almost nothing except one-sided games.
Fred
January 17th, 2010
4:26 pm
You have got to be kidding – Brett Favre leading the Vikes in their rendition of “pants on the ground.” I wonder how much a Fox producer paid him for that. It makes me want to root for the Saints next week.
David O'Brien
January 17th, 2010
4:27 pm
Joerochester: I’ll go with “freak of nature” over the other options you presented. When Favre does get hurt, it’s never seemed to matter. He still starts every … single … game.
Heath
January 17th, 2010
4:32 pm
DOB -
For me, I’m not missing out on the football games even if there were close games. Order of sports interest:
1. UK Basketball
2. Braves Baseball
3. UK Football (BIIIIIIIIIIIG drop off after this)
4. 49ers Football (and virtually no interest in NFL otherwise, even the playoffs)
Virtually no interest in NBA or college baseball
Andrew in PA
January 17th, 2010
4:35 pm
did anyone see sherlock holmes? was it good?
richbrave
January 17th, 2010
4:35 pm
“Colt Brennan and Brett Favre in the same sentence. Something I thought I’d never see.”
Ask a question get an answer. Wow, BRAVEHEART, now you’ve seen it all except…. well, I won’t go there. You should follow the WIZARDS if you think you’ve seen it all.
Braveheart
January 17th, 2010
4:36 pm
It’s weird to think that Keith Brooking has had a long productive career and is now in the twilight of his career and just got beat by Favre, but Brooking was drafted by the Falcons 7 years after Favre was drafted by the Falcons. When the Falcons drafted Favre, the Braves hadn’t even won the first division title of their legendary run.
Braves_Fan_RSD
January 17th, 2010
4:36 pm
Maybe its just me but I find it kind of funny that the two teams (Saints and Vikings) who had their five players suspensions uplifted (Pat Williams, Kevin Williams, Deuce McAllister, Charles Grant, Will Smith) are now playing in the NFC Championship game.
joerochester
January 17th, 2010
4:37 pm
Heath,
I haven’t cared much about the NBA since Michael Jordan, but I do enjoy watching the Boston Celtics.
Tomahawkin
January 17th, 2010
4:37 pm
I agree
This years NFL playoffs have been boring except the Arizona/Green Bay game
And there are 3 teams left in the playoffs that play in domes, which sucks!
N Nine
January 17th, 2010
4:37 pm
Adam what were you thinking? He threw away millions(not just a few) because of the working conditions? I’m floored…
LaRoche said that one reason for his decision was that he preferred Chase Field’s hitting conditions to AT&T Park.