Deep ‘pen and Hudson impress Cox
Cox rocks the new batting-practice cap. Manager = tradition. Lid = not. (Phil Skinner/AJC)
A few thoughts while making my way around the stack of boxes in front of Jason Heyward’s locker, from shoe and equipment manufacturers who have either signed him up to wear their stuff, or would probably like to.
This really stands out because Heyward, the primo outfield prospect (who hasn’t arrived in camp yet), is situated in the side of the clubhouse that non-roster invitees are assigned. He’s assigned No. 71, between No. 70 Freddie Freeman and No. 72 Craig Kimbrel, who’s next to No. 73 Mike Minor. You get the pattern.
Yes, this kid Heyward is a pretty big deal (Getty Images)
Young non-roster invitees, no matter how famous, get linemen numbers in big-league spring training. But very rarely do they have equipment boxes stacked at their locker stall awaiting their arrival. I watched some of the other non-roster invitees checking out those boxes this morning, in awe.
Hey, it’s a gorgeous day here at Dark Star, the flags snapping in the breeze on a sunny, nearly 70-degree afternoon. Can’t get any nicer. The workout’s already over, and we’ll get you some updates in a second on that.
Cowboy Billy Wagner is out by the fence beyond left field, signing autographs for a few dozen fans seasoned enough to know that’s where you stand if you want to get the players as they head out to the players’ parking lot.
Tommy Hanson just joined him, now the two are side-by side, signing photos (I can see through my binocs from the pressbox that someone is holding out a big photo of Wagner in mid-delivery, in his Astros uniform). Wagner has on his cowboy hat, boots, etc., which I’ve quickly realized is his everyday attire….
Anyway, Tim Hudson was the focus of Bobby Cox’s postgame rave session. “He showed why he was an ace before, and will be an ace again,” the manager said.
Hudson impressed Cox in back-to-back throwing sessions Saturday-Sunday. (Phil Skinner/AJC)
But will he be the opening-day starter? We’ll probably have to wait a week or two to find out, since Cox usually likes to put off announcing his opening-day starter in case something happens that requires a switch.
If there’s any consideration of Jair Jurrjens getting that nod – I think it’ll be Hudson, but Jurrjens would be my secondary choice – then the Braves must wait to see if Jurrjens can resume throwing in a few days. Last week’s MRI of his sore shoulder was clean, but until he begins throwing again this week, we probably won’t know if Jurrjens will have to miss a Grapefruit League start.
Either way, he still should have plenty of time to get ready for opening day, since most pitchers (and all hitters) say spring training is longer than necessary anyway.
♦ Speaking of equipment manufacturers: Reebok has dropped a majority of the baseball players it sponsored, a sign of the times (bad economy). Among the Braves who got dropped by the company: Peter Moylan and Derek Lowe.
One they did not drop: Tommy Hanson (Big shocker, right?)
Lowe has switched to New Balance, which made its name in running shoes many years ago. The company is moving harder into baseball and has outfitted a few new players this season.
Oh, and for those wondering, Heyward is a Nike guy. You can bet they have big plans for him in the future. So do the Braves, you may have heard.
♣ Deep ‘pen: Ask 10 players or coaches what’s stood out so far in camp, and a majority will tell you it’s the power arms that have been assembled for the bullpen.
From newcomers Billy Wagner, Takashi Saito and Jesse Chavez, to incumbent sidearmer Moylan, rehabbing veteran Scott Proctor and prospects Kimbrel and lefties Michael Dunn and Lee Hyde, the Braves have a bunch of dudes who can bring it.
Wagner surveys the back 40... er, anchors revamped Braves bullpen (Phil Skinner/AJC)
They’ve got a lot of bullpen hopefuls competing for jobs. “But not many spots,” Cox said, with a look that emphasized just how much competition there will be for possibly two, but probably just one, bullpen vacancy.
“We’ve got deep depth,” Braves president John Schuerholz said, smiling in amusement over that summary. J.S. was standing on the field when he said that, in the sun with a sweater vest on. He’s trying to get rid of a lingering cold.
“I’m trying to bake it out,” he said.
There’s no question about that improved bullpen depth.
“We’ve got more this year, we really do,” Cox said. “We’ve got quite a bit. Whoever makes [the team] is going to be strong. The good thing is, they all have options, so we’re not going to have that predicament.”
He was referring to minor-league options. In recent years, Blaine Boyer and Jeff Bennett were among Braves pitchers who came to camp out of minor-league options, meaning the Braves had to keep them on the 25-man roster or risk losing them to another team on a waiver claim if they tried to send them to Triple-A.
This year, the only player in camp who is out of options is outfielder Melky Cabrera. That’s it. Not Jo-Jo Reyes or Manny Acosta. (That neither of those guys was out of options surprised a couple of other players I mentioned that to. Like many of us, they had assumed Reyes and/or Acosta were out of options.)
So any decision about the final bullpen spots will be based purely on merit, not on whether the Braves need to keep a guy because he’s out of options.
♣ So who’s in? The bullpen is just about full already, barring injuries. Pencil in Wagner to close, Saito and Moylan for setup, returning lefty Eric O’Flaherty and middle reliever/spot starter Kris Medlen.
That’s five of seven spots filled. And most anyone you talk to says that Chavez will have one of the other two spots, or says something that indicates they believe that he will.
Cox on Chavez, after watching him throw in the bullpen Saturday: “Fastball in, great changeup. I didn’t know he had a great changeup like that. That’s a knockout pitch if he can throw like he did.
“I remember the time he pitched against us in Pittsburgh [last season], how hard he threw. But I didn’t know he had that kind of changeup, the way he threw it today. It looked like he’d been throwing it forever, the location and the break in it.
“But I remember how hard he threw. We couldn’t hit him.”
Derek Lowe and others warm up on a nice day at Dark Star (Phil Skinner/AJC)
If Chavez is in, that could leave one spot up for grabs, and a lot of guys reaching for it including Dunn, who came from the Yankees in the Javier Vazquez trade; Manny Acosta, a still-young Braves returner who hasn’t quite lived up to expectations; and Kimbrel, a future closer with great stuff but occasional bouts of control problems.
There is Proctor, who will be counted upon once he’s healthy, which might be sooner than expected; journeyman Chris Resop, another power arm who’s had command issues; and assorted others including promising young lefties Jose Ortegano, who continued to impress in winter ball in Venezuela, and Hyde, a former Georgia Tech standout whose career was stalled by arm problems.
Dave Ross caught at least nine pitchers during batting practice Saturday on the first day of pitchers-and-catchers workouts, before the full squad workouts get underway Tuesday. The veteran catcher liked what he saw.
“I’m excited,” Ross said. “I was just joking with Roger [McDowell, pitching coach], I was like, you and Bobby are going to look down [to the bullpen] and go, ‘Who you wanna bring in?’ ‘I don’t know, pick one.’”
In other words, there are going to be multiple suitable options to use in most situations.
Perhaps this bullpen might have enough options that Cox doesn’t have to rely so heavily on just a trio of guys he can depend on, like he has in recent years.
Ross said, “I mean, Chavez looked real sharp today. Saito, I caught his pen, he looked real sharp. Peter Moylan’s obviously coming off a great year. And Eric O’Flaherty and the lefties we’ve got in this camp are ridiculous. [Lefties Mariano] Gomez and Dunn … there’s no weak links down there. A lot of power arms.
“I like power arms, guys who can run the ball up there.”
Like others in the organization, he believes Wagner and Saito will help set the tone in the bullpen. Kimbrel and others have talked about how much they look forward to picking Wagner’s brain, and GM Frank Wren and Cox have both noted how eager Wagner is to share his knowledge.
“That’s what I think the eighth and ninth inning presence of those two guys [Wagne and Saito] is going to be really strong,” Ross said, “for the power arms they have, and to show how to work, the mental capacity — and getting it done night in, night out.”
♣Alright, let’s get this main blog posted and get going on today’s news and notes. Feel free to comment on any of the briefer, generally newsy blogs that’ll be posted in the next couple of hours. I’ll drop in on those to see if any questions I can answer. But I’ll be on this one more throughout the day and night. We’re trying out this new format and working out the kinks.
Here’s a tune from the great Joe Ely. And no, it’s not what Lane Kiffin was singing as he slinked out of Tennessee.
“TENNESSEE’S NOT THE STATE I’M IN” by Joe Ely
You might call it sad confusion
You might even call it off
But once you called me more than just your friend
Now there’s more to what I’m thinkin’
Than the Mississippi line
And Tennessee’s not the state I’m in
♦
You call me up at midnight
To explain your whereabouts
I should’ve seen your love was coming to an end
And as you call from longer distances
I began to have my doubts
Still Tennessee’s not the state I’m in
♦
No, Tennessee’s not the state I’m in
Satisfied is not the way I’ve been
I can feel my world turning
As I watch the bottle spin
Still Tennessee’s not the state I’m in
♦
Well, I could stand out on that highway
Trying to make that Nashville scene
But I think I’ve stretched my luck a little thin
So I walk the streets of Memphis
But I’ll have you understand
That Tennessee’s not the state I’m in
♦
No, Tennessee’s not the state I’m in
And down to earth is not the place I’ve been
I can feel my world turning
As I watch the bottle spin
Still Tennessee’s not the state I’m in
No, Tennessee’s not the state I’m in
Tell us what you think about the site
Customer Care »
Vacation stops, manage subscriptions and more
AJC Services
Sections
Other Editions
Visitor Agreement | Privacy Statement
© 2013 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
1,067 comments Add your comment
sidslidkid
February 21st, 2010
1:54 pm
Sweet! New blogage!
jeffrey d
February 21st, 2010
1:56 pm
I like the hat, but it doesn’t look good on Bobby
nolie
February 21st, 2010
1:56 pm
New blog? We’re only on page 8???
nolie
February 21st, 2010
1:57 pm
does anything look good on Bobby anymore ?
sidslidkid
February 21st, 2010
2:02 pm
Good read DOB. Love all the photos. And I don’t hate the hat. I’m not going to go out and buy one, but it ain’t that bad.
jeffrey d
February 21st, 2010
2:04 pm
I think he looks pretty sharp with a cigar
CB
February 21st, 2010
2:04 pm
nolie,I don’t know, does anything look good on any of us oldtimers?
nolie
February 21st, 2010
2:04 pm
yeah, the hat is OK Sid.
uhwqhuauh
February 21st, 2010
2:08 pm
hahahha
joerochester
February 21st, 2010
2:10 pm
David Ross is awesome. Definitely a great guy to have on the team.
CB
February 21st, 2010
2:11 pm
I may have to buy one of those hats,looks sharp.
Kentavo
February 21st, 2010
2:13 pm
Those dang hats – I’ll definitely have to buy one of those. Hope they have ‘em at hte Lids store here in durty Myrtle.
joerochester
February 21st, 2010
2:15 pm
It’s nice to have some good ole competition for some bullpen spots and not have to rely on Manny Acosta.
Steve from OH
February 21st, 2010
2:16 pm
Good to have such great bullpen depth, in case Medlen needs to make a few starts or (God forbid) someone gets hurt or sucks. It’s an enviable position to be in, for sure.
Tennbravefan
February 21st, 2010
2:16 pm
Lane Kiffen can bite me!
toga party
February 21st, 2010
2:17 pm
Nice run-through of the bullpen situation DOB. That was a good read.
Sure is a pleasant change to not have to make bullpen decisions due to players being out of options. It’s much easier to go with the hot hands when you know you get to keep the rest of the guys down the road at Coolray.
TexasBrave
February 21st, 2010
2:18 pm
I still can’t help feeling that even if all 7 in the bullpen are outstanding that Bobby will still wear out three or four guys, thus causing the other three not to get many innings to stay sharp when really needed. I hope Bobby only brings in Wagner and Saito during real save situations. Of course another key is how long our starters go into games.
Cactus Jack
February 21st, 2010
2:19 pm
The two hot Danish Curling Sisters are on MSLSD right now! Yay!
Steve from OH
February 21st, 2010
2:20 pm
And a good point about the out-of-options thing. Like others have said, it’s nice to put the best 7 back there instead of the best 7 that are out of options.
SoWeGa Fanatic
February 21st, 2010
2:25 pm
So Damon’s a Tiger, huh. I guess we won’t ever hear from him again. He just went into the land of obscurity.
thickfreakness
February 21st, 2010
2:25 pm
I’ve been saying it all Winter, this is the best 40 player roster the Braves have had in a decade. Wren has done his job well. It’s unfortunate that Heyward will take Blanco’s spot. Hopefully Gregor has a great Spring and we can get a little something for him.
yeah, baby!
February 21st, 2010
2:25 pm
DOB, any new news on the Edward Salcedo signing? Does it still look like a sure thing?
SoWeGa Fanatic
February 21st, 2010
2:25 pm
Is bloggage a word?
keylargo
February 21st, 2010
2:26 pm
One other thing about the Yunnel Escobar vs. Hanley Ramirez comparison. With Ramirez’s stats of:
42 doubles, 24 HR’s, 27 Stolen Bases and .342BA/.410OBP/.543SLG/.954OPS
he would have led (tied LaRoche for HR) the Braves in all categories. When is the last time a Brave led the team in all those categories? Further back than I want to research.
Steve from OH
February 21st, 2010
2:31 pm
thickfreakness–he’s really done a tremendous job with the pitching staff, which I think is the thing a team needs first and foremost to be successful. It’s come at a bit of an expense for the offense and some defense, but I think it will (hopefully) be resolved by adding Heyward, Schafer and Freeman to the lineup. The Troy Glaus signing might work out very well for us, but in the end he’s not the big offensive piece the team needed to go to premiere contender status. But that’s ok, as the team has a limited budget and when you invest so heavily in pitching, that’s gonna have to happen. I still think the offense is good enough, though. Unfortunately, I think we’re going to have to wait for Heyward, Schafer and Freeman to come up before the defense is an asset for the club. An outfield of McLouth-Schafer-Heyward ain’t gonna allow too much to hit the ground, that’s for sure. I can’t wait to watch those guys play.
thickfreakness
February 21st, 2010
2:33 pm
Keylargo-
When I compared the two players, I was looking to this year. Hanley has had the benefit of hitting 3rd for 3 straight years. With the exception of 2-3 months last year, Escobar has been bounced around in the order. You’ll see what kind of numbers he produces while hitting the entire year at 6th. Last year, Escobar led both Leagues in batting avg with runners in scoring position (.415) Yes, he outhit Hanley with RISP.
thickfreakness
February 21st, 2010
2:38 pm
Steve OH-
You are correct sir. Don’t worry about the offense, this is team that finished 2nd in runs scored the 2nd half of last season. This is a team that will truely double people to death. I know we hoped for that last year with KJ and Frenchy. But alas, the downside of their potential was realized. Fortunately, they now longer wear the uni.
joerochester
February 21st, 2010
2:39 pm
Offense will get us to the playoffs, but pitching will get us to the World Series.
Ralph Garr
February 21st, 2010
2:40 pm
The pitching staff looks solid but with no lead off hitter and too much riding on Glaus I think the biggest mistake was not resigning La Roche
Steve from OH
February 21st, 2010
2:40 pm
We just need one last solid year out of Chipper. I feel like if he performs like he can this year, we’ll be fine. Next year, Heyward will be closer to taking his mantle as the Braves’ no. 1 offensive threat, but this year we need Chipper.
Danga
February 21st, 2010
2:40 pm
I can’t wait to watch those guys play. -Steve from OH
Amen.
Frankie Knuckles
February 21st, 2010
2:42 pm
Glad to see spring training start. I will not be buying a hat.
jeffrey d
February 21st, 2010
2:43 pm
I will not be buying a hat.
That’s exactly why we couldn’t afford Damon.
jeffrey d
February 21st, 2010
2:44 pm
Dang it, Heath…do you see something that stands out about this image?
http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/fp/flashPollResultsState?sportIndex=frontpage&pollId=86536
thickfreakness
February 21st, 2010
2:46 pm
Steve OH-
I wouldn’t worry about Chipper. He will see twice as many hittable pitches this year than he did last year. He may only hit 20 dingers, but he’ll drive in 110. I guy like Chipper (great understanding and great situational hitter) doesn’t hit .365 one year and all of the sudden lose it. The order last year took a big toll on his approach and yes Glauss will make a huge difference as well as a very good #2 wether it be McLouth or Prado.
Andy K.
February 21st, 2010
2:48 pm
Hope everything is okay with Chipper physically and personally. He’s usually one of the first guys down there in Dark Star.
Steve from OH
February 21st, 2010
2:49 pm
I’m not worried about him either, thick.
Tomahawkin
February 21st, 2010
2:49 pm
“We just need one last solid year out of Chipper. I feel like if he performs like he can this year, we’ll be fine. Next year, Heyward will be closer to taking his mantle as the Braves’ no. 1 offensive threat, but this year we need Chipper.”
Much agreed but I don’t think we can count on 100 Ribeyes from Chipper at this stage of his career. I’d be happy with an average closer to his overall career avg.and 25Hrs, and 85-90 Ribeyes
I can’t believe his B. Average dropped 100 points from 2008 to 2009
TnBrian
February 21st, 2010
2:50 pm
“Greg Norton to become hitting instructor”
There’s so many jokes that come with that line it’s almost overwhelming, isn’t it?
Tomahawkin
February 21st, 2010
2:52 pm
Agreed…
I not a fan of those S. Training hats at all, ! and that is leaguewide…I do not the side color alterations as well as the red out-line of The “A”
because of Marketing it won’t be long until every team in the League has a different cap for everyday of the week…
Frankie Knuckles
February 21st, 2010
2:52 pm
I’ll buy a hat and hopefully I’ll be buying a Heyward jersey, but it will not buy that hat.
thickfreakness
February 21st, 2010
2:53 pm
Tomahawkin-
The guy drove in 100 eight straight years. Chipper is a tremendous situational hitter. He doesn’t have to go deep to drive in runs. Prado will hit 55 doubles this year and if there are men on 2nd and 3rd, no outs, Chipper will simply single because Glauss, McCann and Escobar will continue the barrage.
jeffrey d
February 21st, 2010
2:55 pm
I don’t see why we’re making such a big fuss about these hats. They’ve been slightly altered to be a little more modern. Nothing major or anything. Some of you are talking like there’s unicorns on it.
Bill
February 21st, 2010
2:55 pm
Looking forward to seeing the bull pen pitch, sounds great! Also like the Cowboy, boots hat and all.
Weather here is great today, so I know its good in Fla. Time to get out the low rider and enjoy! Thanks for info DOB
SoWeGa Fanatic
February 21st, 2010
2:55 pm
“When is the last time a Brave led the team in all those categories?”
Keylargo, uh, a Brave leads the Braves in all those categories each year, duh.
Andy K.
February 21st, 2010
2:56 pm
jeffrey d, agreed…I’m not really hung up on the hats…they are a bit different but nothing out of sync with they way MLB has been doing Spring gear the past few years…
Snotboogie
February 21st, 2010
2:57 pm
“Greg Norton to become hitting instructor”
There’s so many jokes that come with that line it’s almost overwhelming, isn’t it? – TnBrian </strong.
And add to it that his team's name is going to be "The Zephyrs". Appropriate for his swing and miss technique.
jeffrey d
February 21st, 2010
2:57 pm
Is it against MLB regulation for Wagner to come out of the bullpen on a horse?
Tomahawkin
February 21st, 2010
2:57 pm
I’m not getting too excited about the Pen as of yet. We still have to play the games. Afterall doesn’t it seem like every year the Bullpen we start the season only halfway resembles the sme bullpen we see in Late September? Same can be said for the lineup for the same matter…?
As The Late Skip Caray used to say “The season-long will tell that story”
David O'Brien
February 21st, 2010
2:58 pm
Is bloggage a word?
Sure it is. Didn’t you see how I just used it in a sentence thingy?
thickfreakness
February 21st, 2010
2:58 pm
This team will lead the League in runs scored in the 7th, 8th and 9th.
SoWeGa Fanatic
February 21st, 2010
2:59 pm
I wonder if Damon wishes he had taken the 2/$14 deal the Yanks offered early. Boras isn’t the genius here everyone is saying.
Snotboogie
February 21st, 2010
2:59 pm
“Greg Norton to become hitting instructor”
There’s so many jokes that come with that line it’s almost overwhelming, isn’t it? TnBrian
Add to it that his team’s name is going to be “The Zephyrs” – appropriate for his swing and miss technique.
jeffrey d
February 21st, 2010
3:00 pm
I think that would bring up attendance at least a little
Tomahawkin
February 21st, 2010
3:01 pm
Thick-Freak-Ness
My logic on what happened last year with Chipper is his Bat Slowed Down some, But agreed it seemed like everytime Chipper was hitting he had no ducks on the Pond in front of him. We need Nate-Dawg to walk more and cut down on his K’s
Then again I thought more pitchers were afraid to pitch to B-Macc rather than Chipper especially in the second half…
thickfreakness
February 21st, 2010
3:01 pm
Dan-
thingy ain’t no real world or I mean word.
thickfreakness
February 21st, 2010
3:03 pm
Dan-
hopey, changey maybe, but not thingy.
Tomahawkin
February 21st, 2010
3:04 pm
“Is it against MLB regulation for Wagner to come out of the bullpen on a horse?”
I’d rather they play the Dueling Banjos scene from Deliverance when he comes in, Now that would Rule!
Bill
February 21st, 2010
3:04 pm
Don’t like the hats either. Maybe Wagner can come out (of pen) on one of Chipper’s cutting horses, since he (Wagner) throws a good cutter.
Steve from OH
February 21st, 2010
3:05 pm
According to John Perrotto, the Braves project to have the 12th-highest payroll on opening day.
Poorbrave
February 21st, 2010
3:06 pm
SoWeGa..you know Damon is crying over turning down Yankees
jeffrey d
February 21st, 2010
3:07 pm
And then after he gets the save, he can hop back on the horse and it would carry him off into the clubhouse
jeffrey d
February 21st, 2010
3:07 pm
the Braves project to have the 12th-highest payroll on opening day.
Gosh, isn’t ownership terrible??!
thickfreakness
February 21st, 2010
3:08 pm
12th, that sucks, hang Malone, fire Wren – spend money you don’t have for phucks sake.
JoeMaMa
February 21st, 2010
3:08 pm
Dye would be way, way better than LOAF turned out to be but would fill the same role while Heyward and Schafer work their way into the lineup. LOAF was really bad. No more LOAF please.
hotstove.com / archive » Sunday Afternoon Hot Stove Notes: Twins, Phillies, Mets, Braves, Tigers, Red Sox, more
February 21st, 2010
3:09 pm
[...] The latest notes from Braves [...]
Steve from OH
February 21st, 2010
3:10 pm
DOB–I think this competition is yours to lose, dude:
http://punkondeck.blogspot.com/2010/02/scarfing-scribe-scavenger-hunt.html
TnBrian
February 21st, 2010
3:10 pm
“swing and miss technique” Snotboogie
There’s one joke down. Only 500,000 more to go!
Bill, Wagner throws a cutter? I really didn’t know that. I thought he threw fastball,slider and heard he’s been working in his changeup more.
Jerald Holcombe
February 21st, 2010
3:11 pm
DOB, we really appreciate the info you bring to us, especially this time of year. This could be a really good year, but there are a lot of ifs surrounding this team. Of course, they are no ifs in the starting rotation, unless it’s Derek Lowe. But even Lowe will get us double digit wins and Kawakami, with another year of major league ball under his belt, should show what he’s made of. Would’ve been nice to have a true leadoff hitter though, because McClouth strikes out way too much.
TnBrian
February 21st, 2010
3:14 pm
Some of you were talking about MLB The Show ‘10 coming out and if it’ll have Heyward and to repeat what some said … nope, a player who hasn’t played in MLB won’t be on the game. BUT, you can go to any player (has to be an unknown player) and edit him. You can make up any name you want,height,weight,number, skin color or whatever.
Yes, I’m a Play Station nerd.
SoWeGa Fanatic
February 21st, 2010
3:16 pm
David O’Brien
February 21st, 2010
2:58 pm
Is bloggage a word?
Sure it is. Didn’t you see how I just used it in a sentence thingy?
That’s where the “Dan” came from, DOB. Dude thought you were ole Dan Webster.
thickfreakness
February 21st, 2010
3:16 pm
Wow, Howard only weighs 245. He sure carries it differently than Heyward or (Glauss at 250).
thickfreakness
February 21st, 2010
3:17 pm
SoWeGa-
I thought his name was changed to Dan and DOB was code.
TnBrian
February 21st, 2010
3:21 pm
“Last year didn’t go the way we wanted it to” Ryan Howard
They made it to the world series and he’s disappointed? Look, they’re getting WAY too arrogant up there in Philly and I think it’s time to give them a taste of the Braves we knew in the 90’s starting right now!
joerochester
February 21st, 2010
3:21 pm
Wow, Howard only weighs 245. He sure carries it differently than Heyward or (Glauss at 250).
DOB had a blog post about how those weights are almost always inaccurate. They usually update them when they first come into the league and do not revise them often.
Tomahawkin
February 21st, 2010
3:23 pm
I’ was on the Phillies Forum, and It just struck me that the Phillies went to the World Series last year despite Rollins and King Cole Hamels having off years, Lidge being Garbage because of injury
Braves need to focuses on the Wild Card and Play the teams outside the division well, not to mention that we need to beat up on the Cellar Dwellers of league
And is anyone other than myself tired of the Unbalanced Schedule BS?
I like playing 18 games against the NY Mess and The Phils but I hate having that many games against the Nats and Marlins…
jeffrey d
February 21st, 2010
3:24 pm
They made it to the world series and he’s disappointed? Look, they’re getting WAY too arrogant up there in Philly
There’s nothing wrong with being disappointed. I’m sure they’re thankful that they were able to make it that far, but you can’t play 162 games, make it to the third and final round of the playoffs, and not be disappointed when you fall just short of claiming the top prize.
thickfreakness
February 21st, 2010
3:24 pm
joe-
Either Glauss lost weight or Howard gained weight, not sure.
SoWeGa Fanatic
February 21st, 2010
3:27 pm
Andruw came in weighing 190, but they had to change that one. I still thnk he went over 250.
thickfreakness
February 21st, 2010
3:29 pm
The Yankees simply executed the pitches against Howard. The guy struck out 186 times last year. He struck out 13 times in 23 at bats in last years WS. The guy pounds most pitches, but there are some he will never hit.
SoWeGa Fanatic
February 21st, 2010
3:29 pm
“Braves need to focuses on the Wild Card”
Not really. They need to focus on winning every game they play, and let things develop. Just win, baby.
jeffrey d
February 21st, 2010
3:32 pm
The guy pounds most pitches, but there are some he will never hit.
Not when we pitch to him.
thickfreakness
February 21st, 2010
3:34 pm
jeffrey d-
I know, we need to walk him.
Tomahawkin
February 21st, 2010
3:35 pm
‘Not really. They need to focus on winning every game they play, and let things develop. Just win, baby.”
Co-Sign, The seriously need to avoid letting their guard down against teams like the Pirates and Reds. They had a really bad habit of playing down to the level of their competition last year….
TnBrian
February 21st, 2010
3:35 pm
jeffrey d, I don’t care, it’s time for the Braves to regain their dominance and really give Howard and company something to be disappointed about.
SoWeGa Fanatic
February 21st, 2010
3:35 pm
Howard struck out over 1 in 3 times last year, and in the Series about one in 2. I would say he misses most pitches, but the ones he hits go a long, long way.
Steve from OH
February 21st, 2010
3:36 pm
I would say he misses most pitches, but the ones he hits go a long, long way.
Hey, you gotta go big or go home…
SoWeGa Fanatic
February 21st, 2010
3:37 pm
Agreed, Thawkin. If the Braves beat the teams they were supposed to in 2009, they would have run away with the division.
jer
February 21st, 2010
3:37 pm
I think the Braves have too many oft-injured and/or old players (Chipper, Wagner, Saito, Glaus, Hinske, Hudson, Infante, McLouth, McCann (eyes)); in other words, too many ifs to have much of a chance of contending. Therefore, they should let Heyward develop at AAA rather than risk him being overwhelmed in the majors (remember Schaffer last year), especially since he has less than 200 at bats above the A level. Heyward will either not be ready and therefore would have been better off at AAA or even if he is ready, it is extremely unlikely he will be a difference maker in his year (even Rookies of the Year are hardly ever difference makers). If he is ready in June, he can be brought up then without possibly losing a year free of salary arbitration. Furthermore, he had back problems last year. I suspect that pitchers will try to be getting him to lunge at pitches. Although he is not a prototypical lunger (a la Andruw), he could further injure his back if he is overmatched. My son is a competitive swimmer and one of the other swimmers on the team grew so quickly (a la Heyward) that she had back problems. The coach insisted she swim everything but her parents instead took a doctor’s advice and refused. She went to another team that allowed her to avoid the most strenous events for the back for a year and now she competes in every event as on a university scholarship. I think Schaffer should also start at AAA since last year and brought up when he is ready since last year was a waste due to his being brought up early and being injured. I have been a Braves fan since 1959 and remember Hank Aaron saying when asked if he had ever since a player’s career wrecked because his development was not handled properly. His answer was that he had seen many players careers mishandled.
TnBrian
February 21st, 2010
3:39 pm
Tomahawkin, the Braves simply can’t lay down against Fla. and Was., especially the Nats. Can’t complain about the schedule, just have to go out there and find some fire. Good having Wagner around to help fuel the machine some. Chipper is too busniess-like and a closed door type a guy. We obviously know why … he basically grew up around that business approach in the 90’s and that’s what he is.
joerochester
February 21st, 2010
3:40 pm
Opening day last year Lowe just pounded sinkers at Howard and he couldn’t hit them.
SoWeGa Fanatic
February 21st, 2010
3:42 pm
You know, this could be a so-so year, but it could be something magical, as well. Dream a minute: Chipper is Chipper of old, pitching performs as expected, Heyward displays all-star qualities out of the box, Glaus shifts his gold-glove defense to 1st and hits 40 dingers, McCann sees and hits as he can, McLouth puts up 2008 numbers, Esco matures another year. Man, this could be something to see.
David O'Brien
February 21st, 2010
3:43 pm
Bobby Cox was told Joe Torre announced he’ll retire after 2011 season. “See what I started,” Cox said, smiling between bites of a sandwich.
SoWeGa Fanatic
February 21st, 2010
3:44 pm
Dang, and then here comes 2011 and all that young talent! My glass is definitely half full!
David O'Brien
February 21st, 2010
3:44 pm
Jeffrey D, I like the idea of Wagner coming from the bullpen on a horse. Should do it with six-shooters blazing, too. Imagine how well that could have worked with the Astros in the old Astrodome….
TnBrian
February 21st, 2010
3:45 pm
joerochester, yes he threw some sinkers in on Howard, but he also threw a few really good sliders/slurves down and in and it had the big man in knots.
Slider and slurve are pretty close to the same thing, right? I guess the slurve has more of a looping action to it than the slider.
Andrew in PA
February 21st, 2010
3:46 pm
TnBrian
February 21st, 2010
3:14 pm
Some of you were talking about MLB The Show ‘10 coming out and if it’ll have Heyward and to repeat what some said … nope, a player who hasn’t played in MLB won’t be on the game. BUT, you can go to any player (has to be an unknown player) and edit him. You can make up any name you want,height,weight,number, skin color or whatever.
Yes, I’m a Play Station nerd
What games do you got? You play online?
joerochester
February 21st, 2010
3:49 pm
I just said to a blind person by accident:
“Do you know which model you had your eye on?” Whoops..
Tomahawkin
February 21st, 2010
3:51 pm
SwGaFanatic
Troy Glass will NOT come Close to hitting 40 Homers, “Bank On It!”
1) There are No where near as play players hitting 40 homers as opposed to 10 years gao
2) He is off the HGH/Roids, Pencil him in for 22 to 26 homers and thats a big if because his is injury prone. Also he will probably make us miss Roachy’s Glove at first…
However, I like the optomism, but that’s reality since offense leaguewide is in decline
Andrew in PA
February 21st, 2010
3:53 pm
Jer, you cant play baseball worrying about injuries,if your gonna get hurt your gonna get hurt. To start Heyward in AAA so you dont risk him being overwhelmed,i dont understand your logic. Also to compare him to Schafer is a little much dont you think? I dont recall Schafer being on the same talent level as Heyward being voted the best prospect in baseball. Schafer was also hurt.
Steve from OH
February 21st, 2010
3:53 pm
22 to 26 HR from Glaus, along with a solid OBP, would be a huge improvement for this team, Tomahawkin. Remember Casey Kotchman’s play last year? You bet you do. Having good 1B play from day 1 will make a world of difference for us.
TnBrian
February 21st, 2010
3:55 pm
Andrew in PA—
– MLB TheShow, ‘07, ‘08, ‘09
– Okami
– Jaws Unleashed
– Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas
– Madden ‘10
– Resident Evil 4
Hey, those games aren’t cheap, so I can’t afford all the cool ones. LOL
I can always go over to my buddies house cause the guy has tons of PS games.
Tomahawkin
February 21st, 2010
3:56 pm
SwGaFanatic
I’m Banking on Esco to come out Snortin and Clowning this year. My Athlon Sports Magazine claims that he may have been the teams MVP in the second half with is high average hitting R.I.S.P.
I expect him to top that for a Full season, and Show Those Clowns in Philly that Esco is now a man not to be —— With…
Puma
February 21st, 2010
3:57 pm
I really hope someone on the team is ripping on Wagner for wearing that stupid bluetooth thingy, especially considering his head gear.
Tomahawkin
February 21st, 2010
3:58 pm
TnBrian
I suprised Your Arent into The Rockband/ Guitar Hero Scene…?
Now that stuff is Expensive!
I used to have Lazy Roommates w/o a job who would play that mess all day, unless it was a Friday/Sat Night when we’d have to many people over…
Matt the Brave
February 21st, 2010
4:00 pm
Horse, nothing, he should ride one of his alpacas. Ok, not as intimidating, but at least he could say he’s raised it himself.
joerochester
February 21st, 2010
4:06 pm
http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/02/mlber-actually-cares-about-new-gun-policy.html.php
Ryan Franklin wants to bring guns to the workplace.
SoWeGa Fanatic
February 21st, 2010
4:07 pm
Thawkin, I said dream a minute . . . that means if there is slim/no chance of it happening, it still could. I bet you didn’t have any make believe friends growing up.
As to Glaus’s defense, I believe it will be adequate in April and get better as the year progresses (really, not dreaming now . . . I hope).
Tomahawkin
February 21st, 2010
4:10 pm
Steve From OH
“22 to 26 HR from Glaus, along with a solid OBP, would be a huge improvement for this team, Tomahawkin. Remember Casey Kotchman’s play last year? You bet you do. Having good 1B play from day 1 will make a world of difference for us.”
Oh Yeah, I liked the Kotchmeister and gave him the benefit of the doubt thinking that he was gonna start hitting from gap-2-gap, however he only turned out being only a singles hitter… Ditto for Loaf
I had High Hopes for him because he had a lot of hype when he came-up with the Halos (I invested in his rookie cards because of the hype from Beckett)
He is about a big a bust as Traavis Lee
SoWeGa Fanatic
February 21st, 2010
4:11 pm
“If you grew up around it, being in the outdoors and stuff, I was taught as a young kid to respect firearms,” Franklin said after a Saturday workout. “First of all, you don’t get stupid with it. Always treat a gun like it’s loaded. That’s what I taught my son and daugthers. There’s a place for them. … If it wasn’t for the NFL guy a couple years ago brining a weapon to a nightclub … you’ve just got to be smart.”
Franklin didn’t say anything about wanting guns in the workplace.
joerochester
February 21st, 2010
4:13 pm
I guess I read the reporters’ remarks too much. They said he had a dissapointed face.
Tomahawkin
February 21st, 2010
4:15 pm
SwGaFanatic, okay The 40 homers from Glaus jumped out at me
As for the make Believe Friends…Uggh No, I had Animals to take that role, A hampster, lizard, crawdads, tropical fish (Swordtails) etc
I wanted aSnake but Moms would’ve dis-owned my yellow carcas if I brought one of those into the house….
Time to watch the Sunday Movie “Life” I haven’t seen that movie in over 10 years and it is still classic LMAO material
SoWeGa Fanatic
February 21st, 2010
4:25 pm
We were so poor, if we had toys, we had to have make believe ones. Well, it wasn’t quite that bad.
drumzalicious
February 21st, 2010
4:26 pm
Hey DOB, any thought that medlen could go to AAA to develop as a starter if proctor and other guys look ready? If guys like Dunn, Kimbrel, Hyde, Chavez etc all have great ST then there should be plenty of flexibility to have medlen start in AAA
jeffrey d
February 21st, 2010
4:27 pm
You know what this team needs? A good rally song. I’m working on a remake of Boston’s “Tessie” called “Bessie” – dedicated to the rally cow
Heath
February 21st, 2010
4:27 pm
jeffrey d -
I saw nothing “wrong” at all.
I can tell ya hocky and the NBA is boring. But, you knew that anyway. 
No. Ga. bob
February 21st, 2010
4:29 pm
Bullpen looks to be in the best shape for years. How about 3rd base! Has Chipper developed any new aches or pains? If he can resist the pain of a “hangnail” do you think he will contribute more than he did last year? Reality questions! Come on Chipper….look at Lindsey Voon! She’s crashed at least 3-4 times but she keeps picking herself up and trying again. Be a man Chipper and play for what they’re paying you for.
Chopdawg
February 21st, 2010
4:29 pm
Bet it ain’t any nicer in central FL than it is in NW GA this afternoon! I’ll be out on my deck, with a beer & my Baseball Prospectus.
Hope Cody Johnson gets a chance to show off his HR power in a big league ST game…dude has more power than anybody I’ve seen in Rome the past seven seasons, including Heyward, Freeman, Milligan, anybody. Of course, he still strikes out way too much…
Tomahawkin
February 21st, 2010
4:36 pm
SwGaFanatic
I remember those those days, Other than The old School Ninga Turtles, Had my Legos to get me through…! I could build little league ballparks with those as well as my skyscraper…I just hated stepping on legos with bare feet…
Tomahawkin
February 21st, 2010
4:38 pm
Bob in N Ga
Don’t we say that every year?
Best bullpen saw was 2002 with Remlinger, Hammond (Both Career Years) and Smoltz…That Bullpen was cold. back then games were automatic for us getting W’s…
Alaska Braves Fan
February 21st, 2010
4:40 pm
I’m going to post these numbers a few times so everyone can see them. I think they are interesting.
Likely lineup with career averages. Averages for HR and RBI are simply career number of each divided by number of years played. That may not be a good measure, but it’s easy to do.
BA HR RBI OBP OPS
1 CF Nate McLouth .260 14 46 .342 .796
2 2B Martin Prado .307 4 23 .360 .810
3 3B Chipper Jones .307 27 90 .406 .947
4 1B Troy Glaus .255 25 73 .359 .856
5 C Brian McCann .293 18 78 .356 .853
6 SS Yunel Escobar .301 10 55 .375 .801
7 RF Jason Heyward N/A
8 LF Matt Diaz .310 5 23 .358 .817
Melky Cabrero .269 7 46 .331 .716
ABF
Tomahawkin
February 21st, 2010
4:40 pm
Bob in N GA
Don’t we say that every year about the bullpen?
Tomahawkin
February 21st, 2010
4:42 pm
I don’t know about anyone esle up in this piece?, but I want to see Mitch Jones make the team as a bench player. Dude hade 32 homers at AAA Albquerque last year (even though that is a hitters league) but he can’t be and I mean can’t be no worse than Dorky Miller and Greg Naw-ton…
Winterville
February 21st, 2010
4:43 pm
Just got back from seeing “Shutter Island.” DOB, you may not have had a chance to see it yet but it was awesome. I highly recommend it. Very cool idea for a movie.
Moe Berg
February 21st, 2010
4:45 pm
Did you see the plans for the new reality show with the White Sox Managment: Guillen, Williams and Reinsdorf?
http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2010/02/21/sports/AP-BBA-White-Sox-Start.html
Chuck James can Potentially be Solid until the 6th again!!!
February 21st, 2010
4:48 pm
TnBrian
Hey man do you know the release date for MLB The Show?? I still play every week online and it’s getting old playing LaRoche at 1rst, Loaf in LF, no Infante at all, Church, Norton and Kelly Johnson off the bench closing games with Soriano and Gonzo and one of the options in the bullpen consist of Buddy Carlyle… I’m sure you know this… Can’t WAIT for the new game!!
Andrew in PA
February 21st, 2010
4:51 pm
All the Braves really need is for Chipper and Glaus to reach there career average totals and have the rest of the younger guys to continue to do what they do and get better and better everyday.
nolie
February 21st, 2010
4:52 pm
of course ‘thingy’ is a word. it’s all over the internet. I use it all the time, and I would never use a nonword.
TnBrian
February 21st, 2010
4:55 pm
Chuck James, it comes out March 2nd. Yeah, you really need to update!
MattyRoss
February 21st, 2010
4:56 pm
I’m alright with Bloggage being a word. Hell, we don’t have it so bad over here. This is what Bowman thinks constitutes a sentence:
“Then as Kawakami continued to reintroduce himself to an environment that seemed so foreign at this time last year, Kawakami drew greater comfort from the fact that he’ll be spending this year’s journey with fellow Japanese hurler Takashi Saito, who was signed in December to serve as the Braves’ new setup man.”
Commas – 3
Times identifying the subject without use of a pronoun – 2
Paragraphs – 1
Periods – 1
Good Lord.
nolie
February 21st, 2010
4:57 pm
I’m not getting too excited about the Pen as of yet. T’Hawkin’
not a bad idea. they are relievers for a reason and that’s cause even the better ones are not good enough to be anything else. Tremendous change in personal each year and tremendous change each year from the same personnel. That’s why nobody spends a lot on most relievers, cause you never know for sure what they Are gonna do. We just hafta hope they decide to live up to or exceed expectations this season.
Steve from OH
February 21st, 2010
4:57 pm
Are we really arguing the merits of “bloggage” as a proper word?
It really is time for baseball season, eh?
TnBrian
February 21st, 2010
4:57 pm
Hey Chuck, McFann’s main man Joe Mauer is on the cover of TheShow ‘10.
TnBrian
February 21st, 2010
5:00 pm
We’re fixing to go out to eat … anybody ever eaten at Genghis Grill? Mongolian food, but it’s really just Japenese to me. You make your own bowl thing. It’s pretty good.
Andrew in PA
February 21st, 2010
5:00 pm
Does anyone who plays The Show online for PS3 get a bad lag during gameplay? Ive played every sports game online and other games and never got the consistant lag i get during playing The Show.
Andrew in PA
February 21st, 2010
5:05 pm
mlb the shows graphics are amazing
http://ps3.ign.com/articles/105/1055962p1.html
Razorback Red
February 21st, 2010
5:05 pm
Andrew, Yes. And it’s supposed to be fixed in 2010 the show.
Chuck James can Potentially be Solid until the 6th again!!!
February 21st, 2010
5:07 pm
TnBrian & Andrew in PA
Yeh, I just googled it, saw the trailer, March 2, yesssssssss. What do you mean I need to update? Isn’t that up to the people who moderate online play to do? I can’t personally update the Braves roster because everyone I play has the same thing. We’ve all been playing with old teams. Wagner and Saito on Red Sox, Kotchman on Red Sox, Lee on Indians, Damon and Matsui are Yankees, Glaus DeRosa and Smoltz are Cardinals etc. etc. etc. I remember in The Show ‘08 the online moderators for the game updated rosters and call-ups at the end of like every week… Guess they got lazy?
Chuck James can Potentially be Solid until the 6th again!!!
February 21st, 2010
5:07 pm
Andrew
No never had a problem with lagging. Only when the other person has bad connection then I request friendly quit….
Chuck James can Potentially be Solid until the 6th again!!!
February 21st, 2010
5:08 pm
Andrew
Maybe I misinterpreted… What do you define as lagging?
Tomahawkin
February 21st, 2010
5:11 pm
Nolie
Good Post! That’s exactly where I was getting at. “Sometimes you have a way with words”-Quote from Beavis on a Vanilla Ice Video…
Andrew in PA
February 21st, 2010
5:11 pm
Lagging like not smooth gameplay (glitching) making if very difficult to get your timing down while hitting.
Andrew in PA
February 21st, 2010
5:12 pm
If anybody wants to add me as a friend its ajheater10
Couch Tater
February 21st, 2010
5:15 pm
nolie,
I tried to find you in the Library of Congress. Just kidding, but looks like something you’d like.
The15 Spalding’s Official Base Ball Guides included in this online collection were published between 1889 and 1939.
http://memory.loc.gov/ammem/collections/spalding/
David O'Brien
February 21st, 2010
5:23 pm
Tim Hudson is 56-39 with a 3.76 ERA in 128 games (127 starts) since being traded to the Braves in December 2004, after going 92-39 with a 3.30 ERA in 183 starts for Oakland.
jeffrey d
February 21st, 2010
5:28 pm
So Huddy only needs to go 36-0 to match that record
Andrew in PA
February 21st, 2010
5:29 pm
DOB, do you think the braves got enough in return for javy v?
TommyP
February 21st, 2010
5:31 pm
DOB: So what you’re saying is Huddy is due for a 36 game win streak, right?
Takes a lot for me to chuckle out loud (sorry, laugh out loud is so old) but the guy suggesting Wagner enter the game on a horse was pretty good.
Let’s add a little Wyatt Earp Tombstone dialogue as he trots in as well….
“So run, you cur… RUN! Tell all the other curs the law’s comin’! You tell ‘em I’M coming… and hell’s coming with me, you hear?…
Hell’s coming with me!!!!!!”
Yeah….that’d work.
Tomahawkin
February 21st, 2010
5:31 pm
Andrew in PA what do you think about the Vazquez deal?
jeffrey d
February 21st, 2010
5:33 pm
but the guy suggesting Wagner enter the game on a horse was pretty good.
That wasn’t a joke
Andrew in PA
February 21st, 2010
5:35 pm
Tomahawkin,im not really sure what to make of it, i just think that we could have gotten i better ready to play now guy.
Tomahawkin
February 21st, 2010
5:35 pm
D.O.B.
I think Hudson’s better success in Oak-Town had a lot to deal with playing in a weak AL West during his whole duration there…Plus back then he played on some really offensive A’s teams there (obviously not in the Playoffs)…
Not to Mention That the Oak-Alameda Colisseum (McAfee, whatever) was a more of a pitchers park at night than Tooner Field…
Which led to his success out there, or at least that’s what my Big Boy Gut Tells Me…Time to fry up some Tilapia…
nolie
February 21st, 2010
5:35 pm
TOMMY P how about I’m your huckleberry
nolie
February 21st, 2010
5:38 pm
Thanx Tater I liked that, but what an I gonna do for info about all the players I watched b4 1889 who ain’t in that book?
TommyP
February 21st, 2010
5:40 pm
jeffrey d: Didn’t have to be a joke. Just the thought of that happening is hilarious.
For some reason, I JUST don’t see Selig allowing that.
What would be next? Reliever gets chased from the game and that Showtime At The Apollo clown ushers him off?
Tomahawkin
February 21st, 2010
5:40 pm
Andrew In PA…
Straight Up… WhineBrenner and Cashman really screwed Wren in that over the last decade With a few Exceptions The Yankees Farm system is sooo Overrated by BSPN its Ludacris!
Joba =’s Overrated,, Ian Kennedy, Overrated, Brett Gardner, Overrated…!
I said it before and I will say it again, I would’ve felt a lot better if we got a bag of baseballs as opposed to the Slop we got in the Vazquez deal! Wren got Violated by Cashman and WhineBrenner. When I heard about that deal at the store I about threw my phone…
And I forgot to mention….Ooooohhhh I hate The Yankees!!!!
TommyP
February 21st, 2010
5:41 pm
nolie: I think the length of Wyatt saying all that would equal the trip in for Wagner. “I’m your Huckleberry” would be over as fast as a Wagner heater.
nolie
February 21st, 2010
5:45 pm
yeah you got a a point thar Tommy
drumzalicious
February 21st, 2010
5:50 pm
Speaking of line ups I would love to see bobby experiment during ST
Like
McLouth LF
Prado 2B
Heyward RF
Chip 3B
Glaus 1B
McCann C
Escobar SS
Schafer CF
Elon Brave
February 21st, 2010
5:52 pm
DOB, would the Braves consider letting Kimbrel get that last spot just so he can learn from Wagner throughout the season?
Rob from SC
February 21st, 2010
5:54 pm
For any baseball fan, go read the article about Angel Guzman on cubs webpage at mlb.com
csg
February 21st, 2010
5:57 pm
getting a top notch prospect plus two fillers for a #3 pitcher getting paid $11mil in the final year of his contract is a good return
Couch Tater
February 21st, 2010
5:59 pm
nolie,
http://memory.loc.gov/ammem/collections/robinson/jrgmabout.html
ncscoots
February 21st, 2010
6:00 pm
The best pitching news of the spring would be that Hudson can again throw his splitter with bad intentions. That was the pitch that elevated his arsenal in Oakland, but I doubt he’s been able to throw it much in the last couple of playing years (somebody could check fangraphs, I guess. Not me, but somebody).
Tomahawkin
February 21st, 2010
6:01 pm
CSG
Yankees Prospects in the last 10 years have always been overrated busts (with a few exceptions) Thanks to BSPN
Plus, you never know how prospects will pan out in 4 years (injuries, inability, etc)
nolie
February 21st, 2010
6:03 pm
Thankx again Tater. That one will cover them all, even I don’t go bact to be 1860.
ltdbrave
February 21st, 2010
6:04 pm
When hasn’t Cox been impressed with the Braves. He is always impressed. If the team impresses him that much, then why isn ‘t he winning divisional and World Series titles?
nolie
February 21st, 2010
6:04 pm
ain’t no #3 pitchers have a ten year average ERA+ of 117.
thickfreakness
February 21st, 2010
6:05 pm
Just returned from local watering hole. The proprietor and a friend of mine sez: The economy still sucks; Hopey, Changey, Thaaangy are solid; Glauss is a stud, but he’s not sure; Chipper will rebound; the govt taxes him too much; Doesn’t trust anyone who spells optomism this way(T-Hawk).
jeffrey d
February 21st, 2010
6:06 pm
Thanks to BSPN
Because “BSPN” has been overhyping Arodys Vizcaino for awhile now.
csg
February 21st, 2010
6:06 pm
tomahawkin, agree with you 100% on Yanks prospects being bust. I dont mind adding 19yr olds with big arms to our farm system though. I loved Vasquez as much as anyone here, but I had my doubts about him being able to repeat his 09 performance. If he repeated the numbers we wouldnt have been able to afford him after the season anyways
joerochester
February 21st, 2010
6:09 pm
98% of us probably hadn’t heard of Arodys Vizcaino before this trade. I was pleasantly surprised to hear how hyped he was.
Tomahawkin
February 21st, 2010
6:17 pm
CSG Agreed
But looking at the Yankees lineup, Vazquez will win 16-19 games with that all star lineup around him, “Bank on It”
Vazquez has struggled in the AL before but in that Corporate Bandbox they have in the Rotten Apple, Wazquez will have an era a run higher but his offense will bail him out over and over. I wish our offense could’ve bailed him out, then he would’ve been the 2009 Cy Young winner…
csg
February 21st, 2010
6:22 pm
our offense shouldve bailed out JJ and Vasquez more than they did. Both shouldve had 5 more wins and been in the CY young talk more
thickfreakness
February 21st, 2010
6:22 pm
joerochester-
ROGER THAT! but I’ll take a chance on a 19yo RH that throws 95-98 mph, a 24 yo LH that throws 94-96 and 1/3 of the defending Champions OF for a guy with 1 year remaining on his contract comming off a career year.
Gibby
February 21st, 2010
6:24 pm
I have to say I spend a lot of time reading the sports pages of other teams this time of year as I get ready for fantasy baseball. No other team has the type of coverage the AJC and D.O.B has given us. We have had five updates today on the braves. I read up on 12 other teams today and there was barely five stories combined writen today. Thanks D.O.B.
thickfreakness
February 21st, 2010
6:25 pm
Dan, you do a helluva job, thanx man.
nolie
February 21st, 2010
6:29 pm
who’s Dan?
joerochester
February 21st, 2010
6:29 pm
It will be interesting to see what the rotation looks like in 3-4 years.
thickfreakness
February 21st, 2010
6:32 pm
nolie-
How are you, Isn’t Dan the guy that writes the stories, Who is this DOB guy? DOB-you know I’m kidding and very obnoxious.
nolie
February 21st, 2010
6:34 pm
good dig Thick
Dan will appreciate it.
thickfreakness
February 21st, 2010
6:38 pm
nolie-
Come on man! even if a reliever is sh!tty SP, we got some real good
sh!tty SP’s in camp.
David O'Brien
February 21st, 2010
6:42 pm
Gibby: You’re welcome. Thanks for the kind words.
Thinbreakness: No problem.
keylargo
February 21st, 2010
6:45 pm
Tim Hudson is 56-39 with a 3.76 ERA in 128 games (127 starts) since being traded to the Braves in December 2004, after going 92-39 with a 3.30 ERA in 183 starts for Oakland. DOB
Hudson is also 106 – 2 when given a 3 run lead in his career. We had a debate about this last year with some people saying it was meaningless and others thinking it was fantastic. To me it means if you give him the lead, he ain’t giving it up.
David O'Brien
February 21st, 2010
6:45 pm
Tater, AZ Brave Fan: You’re welcome. I appreciate the kind words and especially the participation.
thinbreakness
February 21st, 2010
6:48 pm
In your honor DOB, This is a great blog and I know you’ve worked hard to make it so.
VaBraveFan
February 21st, 2010
6:52 pm
I’m sooo ready for baseball!!!
Cooper
February 21st, 2010
7:12 pm
Ah, what a great weekend. Pitchers and catchers have reported, the weather was spring like all weekend, and my oldest son and I got out and got him practicing t-ball in preparation for his first baseball playing experience.
I think the Braves will be very good this year. The bullpen sounds like it has some depth to it and Hudson looks to be back on track. I think we’ll see the Hudson that we all thought we would be getting back in 2005. If Glaus gives us between 23-27 HRs then I will take it. Chipper bouncing back will be helpful, but the continuing development/improvement of the younger guys like Mac, McClouth, Yunel, Prado, and of course Heyward will be the thing that puts this team over the top. A great mix of vets and young guys will be fun to watch.
DOB thanks for the best baseball blog around and it will fun following you along with the Braves this year.
McFann
February 21st, 2010
7:18 pm
DANGIT! I should get ostracized for taking this long, but…a belated Happy Birthday to BMac!
And I call myself your biggest fan…
jeffrey d
February 21st, 2010
7:20 pm
DANGIT! I should get ostracized for taking this long
I think you should have to change your name to NortFann.
cabravesfan
February 21st, 2010
7:21 pm
McFann-
At least you didn’t have a momentary lapse in sanity and think his birthday was in APRIL
bigchiefrg
February 21st, 2010
7:22 pm
So we need to get billy boy a new entrance song. He cant do the same as Mo and Pappelbon. He needs something different. I think Headstrong by Trapt. Any other suggestions?
"Chef" Tim Dix
February 21st, 2010
7:23 pm
Sports writer’s around the world can agree on one thing: The Lane Kiffin card is a slow news day writer’s best friend.
jeffrey d
February 21st, 2010
7:24 pm
Any other suggestions?
Save a Horse, Ride a Cowboy. And he’ll come out in chaps and spurs. Of course, he’ll waste all his warmup time taking those off, but it’ll be worth it.
McFann
February 21st, 2010
7:25 pm
jeffrey d–
I said “ostracized”, not “humiliated”.
cabravesfan–
Now that would be frightening…I think I’d need psychiatry for that.
McFann
February 21st, 2010
7:26 pm
bigchiefrg Any other suggestions?
How about, “Hello! I’m Mister Wagner!”?
Bravissimo
February 21st, 2010
7:52 pm
If Saito works out…how about “Godzilla” when he comes out of the pen?
Andrew in PA
February 21st, 2010
7:56 pm
Anyone have comcast cable with MSNBC HD? I cant belive i have to watch this hockey game in standard def. it looks terrible
hal
February 21st, 2010
8:05 pm
i watched glaus in toronto before he got hurt and hes totally capable of 40 hr’s in a line up with out vernon wells protection lol
bigchiefrg
February 21st, 2010
8:09 pm
I have DTV and it is standard def here too. It is aweful.
bigchiefrg
February 21st, 2010
8:12 pm
Whats even more amazing is that I am actually watching Ice Hockey… I need baseball something aweful
KC
February 21st, 2010
8:25 pm
DOB: “after going 92-39 with a 3.30 ERA in 183 starts for Oakland.
Interestingly, Hudson’s ERA here since 2006 (in more than 400 innings)… 3.30M
KC
February 21st, 2010
8:26 pm
3.30… don’t know where the “M” came from
jeffrey d
February 21st, 2010
8:27 pm
Hudson’s ERA is 3.3 million? That’s astronomical!
KC
February 21st, 2010
8:29 pm
jeffrey d, no, it was just a typo. I’m talking about Tim Hudson, not Chris Reitsma. =)
joerochester
February 21st, 2010
8:31 pm
I’m thinking about purchasing a townhome/condo. Does anyone live in a townhome/condo, and if so what are the drawbacks??
jeffrey d
February 21st, 2010
8:32 pm
What’s the worst is when you check your fantasy baseball team in the morning and your reliever had a bad night. You check your stats and see that they allowed 6 runs in .1 innings for a 127 ERA. It almost makes your eyes do a cartoon “AOOOOOOGA!”
joerochester
February 21st, 2010
8:34 pm
What is Jurrjens’ native language?
jeffrey d
February 21st, 2010
8:41 pm
Should be 162 ERA
csg
February 21st, 2010
8:44 pm
joerochester, Im not in one but I would expect a townhome has some drawbacks depending on how you look at it. Having neighbors right at your doorstep could be a problem. If you dont have an end unit you have to walk around the whole complex to get to your backyard. Could be a pain when cutting grass unless you wanted to walk your lawnmower through your living room
Green Tinted Sixties Mind
February 21st, 2010
8:46 pm
Jurrjeans speaks fluent Curacaon
keylargo
February 21st, 2010
8:47 pm
Dutch is the official language of Curacao, but some natives speak a dialect that comes from that area. Not sure what the name of it is.
CB
February 21st, 2010
8:48 pm
joe,I live in townhome and like it. csg,you don’t cut grass if you own townhome,association fees pay for that. joe,buy a one story townhome if you can,end units are better. Stay away from condos,usually similar to apartment living.
NO MORE BOBBY
February 21st, 2010
8:50 pm
Deep ‘pen impresses Cox.
Why does this matter? Bobby will go to the same three guys over and over again this year like he did last season. Don’t get me wrong. I would love to see him go out a winner but my gut tells me he is stuck in his ways and will blow his share of games again this year while the rest of us sit and yell at the television – WHAT ARE YOU THINKING????!!!!!
toga party
February 21st, 2010
8:50 pm
joerochester, I would guess Dutch, but I’m sure he grew up with Papiamentu and English.
joerochester
February 21st, 2010
8:51 pm
CB
I appreciate your feedback. Why do you say to purchase a one-story? Also, do you have your own yard, or is it one big one for everyone?
keylargo
February 21st, 2010
8:52 pm
I’m thinking about purchasing a townhome/condo. Does anyone live in a townhome/condo, and if so what are the drawbacks??
Maintenance and association fees. And associations themselves and their deed restrictions in some instances. You ever heard of Condo Commandos? You will if you buy.
CB
February 21st, 2010
8:58 pm
One stories are easier to heat,air condition and as you get older don’t have to worry about climbing steps. We have a medium sized patio yard,bought it as we got older so we did not have to worry about upkeep of mowing grass and outside stuff.It is easier for being able to take vacations and retirement people.
cabravesfan
February 21st, 2010
8:59 pm
I would guess Dutch, but I’m sure he grew up with Papiamentu and English.
And also Spanish- Papiamentu is a sort of combination of the other 3…I am under the impression that most people grow up speaking all 4 to some degree
David O'Brien
February 21st, 2010
9:00 pm
Dave I noticed in a prior column you are from North Carolina. Did you attend the UNC School of Journalism? I am from Rocky Mount myself and graduated from NC State. — Ken Stallings
Noooo. Proud alum of the University of Kansas and the William Allen White School of Journalism, my friend. And a huge fan of State and David Thompson as a kid.
(A bunch of my cousins went to UNC, but I have an uncle who’s a State grad, a retired engineer who held a top-tier position in the U.S. Postal Service.)
bigchiefrg
February 21st, 2010
9:03 pm
joerochester…in my opinion, stay away from a condo if at all humanly possible. if you do have to get a condo, u can not do too much research on the HOA/Regime. Meeting minutes, historical fees, regime’s capital reserves, etc. I have a condo at the beach and I bought my unit from the developer. In an effort to keep regime fees (they have almost tripled since) down for selling purposes, the HOA started with ZERO capital reserve once the home owners took over. I bought this condo in 2004 and we are in a mess. I cant stress that enough. It seems like possibly a big pyramid scheme at times. I wont bore you with details but make sure you do your homework. I personally will not get involved with another if at all possible and plan on getting out just as soon as i can.
joerochester
February 21st, 2010
9:05 pm
One stories are easier to heat,air condition and as you get older don’t have to worry about climbing steps
I’m 24. Let’s hope I don’t have to worry about climing steps for a long time.
CB
February 21st, 2010
9:08 pm
Research is important,our fees have only gone up 20% in seven years.
Moe Berg
February 21st, 2010
9:11 pm
joerochester, Definitely do not purchase a condo with someone who lives above you. I had problems with leaks into my condo, but there were two more above me. It took forever to figure out who was responsible and to get the leak fixed. Also, be sure to find out about the history of the condo association. Many have lots of problems (mine did). Sometimes, the grounds are kept really beautiful in front of some buildings and much less so others; it often turns out that the officers of the board live in the well-kept buildings. I will never again live in a condo. We had flooding and the association did not want to pay for the damage caused by a leak from one of their pipes. (They did not want to pay the deductible.) Do your due diligence on the association and the board.
keylargo
February 21st, 2010
9:11 pm
joerochester – if you live in a University town, a duplex is a great way to start home ownership. You can stay there a few years and have the other side rented to help with the mortgage. Then when you get ready for a home, hopefully you can rent both sides to pay the mortgage and taxes and have an investment.
sidslidkid
February 21st, 2010
9:14 pm
Wow this is a some good hockey… can’t believe I just said that, I normally find hockey weird and boring, but this is good tv.
joerochester
February 21st, 2010
9:14 pm
The home ownership fees are between 120-200 per month that I saw.
Ralph
February 21st, 2010
9:15 pm
Bobby Cox has yet to meet a player that doesn’t impress him, yesterday it was Wagoner, today it was Hudson, tomorrow it will be somebody else, even Norton impressed Cox, your a nice guy Bobby but we need a kick but manager!
CB
February 21st, 2010
9:16 pm
joerochester,are you thoroughly confused yet?
joerochester
February 21st, 2010
9:18 pm
CB
Sort of. My girlfriend and I were looking for a single family home, but none of the nice ones are in our price range so we decided to look at townhouses. The only downside I’m thinking of is that darn homeowners fee.
CB
February 21st, 2010
9:23 pm
joe,townhomes are a good investment for young starting couples and older retired people if you do good investigation. Remember that the assoc.fee covers outside repair like roofing.
David O'Brien
February 21st, 2010
9:24 pm
Bobby Cox has yet to meet a player that doesn’t impress him, yesterday it was Wagoner, today it was Hudson, tomorrow it will be somebody else, even Norton impressed Cox, your a nice guy Bobby but we need a kick but manager! — Ralph
Yeah, right. ‘Cause this is like football training camp, right?
Ralph, find some quotes from managers this past week who were critical of players’ work in spring training. I’d like to see those, because I sure haven’t heard any that I can think of.
joerochester
February 21st, 2010
9:25 pm
Ralph, find some quotes from managers this past week who were critical of players’ work in spring training. I’d like to see those, because I sure haven’t heard any that I can think of.
Give Ozzie Guillen two days.
LongtimeBravesfan
February 21st, 2010
9:26 pm
I don’t know which is Jair’s native language, but according to DOB and others, he speaks, Dutch, Spanish, English and Papiamento. I believe that Andruw speaks all four as well.
Andrew in PA
February 21st, 2010
9:29 pm
DOB you might want to check the day 2 photos, its says tim hudson warming up throwing the pigskin around and i think its billy wagner.
David O'Brien
February 21st, 2010
9:32 pm
Wow. U.S.A. up 4-2 on the Canadians….
Steve from OH
February 21st, 2010
9:33 pm
Have a tournament, Brian Rafalski…
toga party
February 21st, 2010
9:33 pm
Huh, never thought I’d see Olympic ice dancing to Johnny Cash. There’s so much wrong with that.
David O'Brien
February 21st, 2010
9:34 pm
I don’t know which is Jair’s native language, but according to DOB and others, he speaks, Dutch, Spanish, English and Papiamento. I believe that Andruw speaks all four as well. — LongtimeBravesFan
That is correct
Andrew in PA
February 21st, 2010
9:34 pm
I love this nbc hockey announcer
Steve from OH
February 21st, 2010
9:34 pm
toga party–you’re watching ice dancing when there’s a perfectly good hockey game on?
Shame.
David O'Brien
February 21st, 2010
9:36 pm
Andrew in PA: That was Wagner. I don’t write photo captions (except for those in my blog), but I’ll let them know so it can be fixed.
Andrew in PA
February 21st, 2010
9:36 pm
steve from oh, do you have a favorite nhl team?
Steve from OH
February 21st, 2010
9:36 pm
I’ve cheered for the Red Wings since I was a little kid, Andrew.
joerochester
February 21st, 2010
9:37 pm
Wow. U.S.A. up 4-2 on the Canadians….
That will be the ultimate shame on Canada. Ryan Miller is an awesome goalie for USA.
Apollonasia
February 21st, 2010
9:37 pm
How realistic of a chance is there that Kimbrel wins a spot right away after the the control issues he had last year?
toga party
February 21st, 2010
9:38 pm
Wife’s watching. I’m “working”. But yes, it is a crime shame. I’ve got the hockey game recording on DVR, and glad I do. Seems like it’s a good one.
Andrew in PA
February 21st, 2010
9:39 pm
nice,im a penguins fan,do you think we can make it 3 years in a row with the same stanley cup matchup
joerochester
February 21st, 2010
9:40 pm
Hockey is sweet in HD.
Steve from OH
February 21st, 2010
9:40 pm
I hope so. The Wings need to get healthy first, but they’re really hurting this year losing Hossa, Samuelsson and Hudler, along with all of their injuries on top of it. I don’t know if they can make a deep run this year. My money’s on the Caps. Ovie is a beast. Best player in the game, hands-down.
joerochester
February 21st, 2010
9:41 pm
It was very gratifying seeing Hossa leave the Penguins because he wanted to win a championship and then lose to the very same team.
Andrew in PA
February 21st, 2010
9:42 pm
I know,Ovie is crazy,the Caps team is really good too. Hossa is a punk and i hope he never wins a cup.
Steve from OH
February 21st, 2010
9:43 pm
joe, I didn’t blame him. The Wings were the best team at the time and were only better by adding him. They just, for whatever reason, didn’t show up in the finals. It hurt losing Datsyuk for all those games, and it hurt having Osgood in goal. I dunno, I can’t get down on Ozzie though, he won us three cups and kicked Patrick Roy’s @ss really good in ‘98.
Andrew in PA
February 21st, 2010
9:45 pm
I wanna see a Canada goal to make this game even better.
Steve from OH
February 21st, 2010
9:46 pm
But I’ll bet he wins one before his contract with the Blackhawks is up. That’s a really good young team and they’re only going to get better. Gotta get stronger in goal first, though.
joerochester
February 21st, 2010
9:46 pm
Steve
I’d argue that they were overconfident against the Penguins. They thought it was in the bag for Game 7 at home.
David O'Brien
February 21st, 2010
9:46 pm
Apollonasia: Kimbrel could use more minor-league seasoning and will likely get it, but stranger things have happened. Injuries and other circumstances arise, and sometimes guys surprise you with a sudden improvement. But he probably needs to get more consistent command before they throw him into the fire, particularly when they’ve got several other candidates. But he’s got undeniable talent and I think it’s only a matter of time — and not too much time.
Andrew in PA
February 21st, 2010
9:47 pm
Miller maybe the best goalie on the planet this year.
Andrew in PA
February 21st, 2010
9:48 pm
Go head Crosby, mad max talbot game 7 hero, i think the pens just wanted it more last year.
Steve from OH
February 21st, 2010
9:51 pm
I don’t think it was overconfidence so much as it was that they were just really banged up. There’s no way a team with Lidstrom, Draper, Maltby, Holmstrom and Osgood gets overconfident in game 7 of the Stanley Cup finals. Whatever it was, it was as bad as I’ve seen that team play all year. You saw them the year before, they completely ate the Pens up; it wasn’t really even a contest.
I think Lidstrom had to have surgery in the Western Conference Finals last year, Rafalski was banged up, Datsyuk was playing on a broken foot, I think…
Andrew in PA
February 21st, 2010
9:52 pm
omg this is nuts
dogsbrekky
February 21st, 2010
9:52 pm
“”"”Hey, it’s a gorgeous day here at Dark Star, the flags snapping in the breeze on a sunny, nearly 70-degree afternoon. Can’t get any nicer”"”"
Shut up from cold NYC
joerochester
February 21st, 2010
9:53 pm
If the Sabres get owners who care, they may actually make the playoffs.
Couch Tater
February 21st, 2010
9:53 pm
unreal.
David O'Brien
February 21st, 2010
9:53 pm
This is pretty awesome, this U.S. performance.
Andrew in PA
February 21st, 2010
9:54 pm
steve from oh, yeah but they still got to game 7 of the stanley cup so you cant really blame injuries on that.
Steve from OH
February 21st, 2010
9:55 pm
Ryan Miller is a beast. Jeez.
TNScott
February 21st, 2010
9:56 pm
Where is Al Michaels?
Andrew in PA
February 21st, 2010
9:56 pm
joerochester they can just ride ryan miller to the playoffs this year,they are the 3 seed now i think.
Couch Tater
February 21st, 2010
9:56 pm
Kudos to both.
Nova Scotia Steve
February 21st, 2010
9:56 pm
USA Fans: I would be hanging a Ryan Miller photo right beside Jesus Christ – If you are the religious type
Slowhiteguy
February 21st, 2010
9:56 pm
Much better game with the bigger ice.
Steve from OH
February 21st, 2010
9:57 pm
No excuses, the Pens won fair and square. The Wings didn’t play nearly as well as they could have, but they didn’t, and they lost because of it. The Pens earned it. Hats off to them.
Now the Crosby bandwagoners you’ll find here in Ohio, that’s a different story altogether…
joerochester
February 21st, 2010
9:57 pm
andrew
They just never make the one or two moves, though, to ride them to the Cup.
Apollonasia
February 21st, 2010
9:57 pm
Yeah, I agree Dave. I haven’t seen Craig pitch in person, but to zip his way through the system with those kind of strikeout numbers is very, very impressive.
What is your opinion on Cody Johnson? That’s undeniably incredible raw power he posseses. Is that as far as it goes for him or does he ever become a legit prospect?
Venice Jim
February 21st, 2010
9:57 pm
Fantastic finish!
cb – in another sport, great effort by your guys until the last couple of minutes…
Steve from OH
February 21st, 2010
9:58 pm
Do I stay up to watch Sweden-Finland?
I think I do. That’ll be a helluva game.
Nova Scotia Steve
February 21st, 2010
9:58 pm
He’s the type of goalie that could take USA to the Gold.
Andrew in PA
February 21st, 2010
9:58 pm
Canada needs to give marc andre-fleury a start
dogsbrekky
February 21st, 2010
9:59 pm
Steve OH – Sweden and Finland play-off for the best Smoked Fish…. awright
Steve from OH
February 21st, 2010
9:59 pm
I still like the Russians to win the gold. USA showed me a LOT tonight, though. Watch out for Sweden and Finland–they’re both tough. Should be an awesome tournament from here on out.
Nova Scotia Steve
February 21st, 2010
10:00 pm
BC Place is not an international ice surface but NHL regulation size.
I think the games are quite different when you’re on a bigger ice surface – teams can use speed to their advantage a lot more.
Smaller ice surfaces benefit big physical/skilled teams
Nova Scotia Steve
February 21st, 2010
10:01 pm
Marc Andre will not get a start – Roberto Luongo will start the next game I believe
Steve from OH
February 21st, 2010
10:02 pm
No way I start Fleury over Marty freaking Brodeur or Luongo.
Andrew in PA
February 21st, 2010
10:03 pm
i really think the US can win this,russia is amazing but its seems like the teams that have a bunch of superstars dont play as well together as a team. I really like the way USA plays together.
cricket
February 21st, 2010
10:10 pm
Hawks coaching really sucks..
Tom O'Hawke
February 21st, 2010
10:10 pm
“DANGIT! I should get ostracized for taking this long, but…a belated Happy Birthday to BMac”
Help me out here, please. Does anyone know why McFann wants to have someone bury her head in the sand?
Soph
February 21st, 2010
10:13 pm
Oh Hawks…ay-yi-yi.
cabravesfan
February 21st, 2010
10:13 pm
Tom-
Because she forgot Mac’s birthday of course! It really is the only acceptable form of punishment, aside from death
Soph
February 21st, 2010
10:14 pm
The Hawks really blew it tonight.
Steve from OH
February 21st, 2010
10:16 pm
This NBC guy has no idea what he’s talking about right now…
Tom O'Hawke
February 21st, 2010
10:23 pm
Hey, cabravesfan. How you doin’? (J. Tribiani)
As the #3 McCann fan, on the blog, (RHR # 2) I bet you didn’t forget the mann’s birthday.
nolie
February 21st, 2010
10:23 pm
Apollonasia What is your opinion on Cody Johnson? That’s undeniably incredible raw power he posseses. Is that as far as it goes for him or does he ever become a legit prospect?
Cody has trememdous power and so far not a lot else. He did walk a bit more the last year or so but his Ks and low batting average has not improved much. He has a longish swing with some holes in it and would likely benefit from not swinging so hard;he would still have a lot of power. Not very good defensively either.
The good thing is that he is still young enough top get better with experience. He is a long way from being ready now, but it is too soon to say he will never make it at all.
David O'Brien
February 21st, 2010
10:27 pm
Apollonasia: Cody Johnson made real progress during the 2009 season, really started to show better plate discipline for a good part of the season. With his power, he’s got to be considered a legit prospect. Still a lot of work to do, but if he makes more strides this year….
cabravesfan
February 21st, 2010
10:28 pm
Tom-
I am ashamed to admit that there was a moment of sheer madness when I thought that Mac’s birthday was in April…I am still hanging my head, even though the madness passed in seconds
Steve from OH
February 21st, 2010
10:28 pm
Johnson just needs to work on his contact. His power is enormous and his walk rate was pretty good last season. I’m more bullish on him than others, I guess…
cabravesfan
February 21st, 2010
10:29 pm
And I am good- watching Olympics (loved the hockey game!) and waiting for VJ to finish the Shrimp Scampi and pasta
How are you?
Steve from OH
February 21st, 2010
10:33 pm
Johnson had the same amount of XBH (51) as he did singles (51) in high class A last season.
Tom O'Hawke
February 21st, 2010
10:38 pm
I am still hanging my head, ….
Just hanging it, cabravesfan? I think you should show more support for McFann, and stick your head in the sand, too, at least for a bit. (God knows you don’t have to go far to find sand.
)
nolie
February 21st, 2010
10:39 pm
Cody hit 242 at MB and 182 in a few ABs in Miss last season, that is not an improvement in an area where he truly needs to improve.
cabravesfan
February 21st, 2010
10:39 pm
Tom-
While it is true that there is sand located approximately 2.3 miles from my doorstep, it is cold outside and I don’t like cold. Or sand. Or sand in my hair…
McFann is on her own with that one
jeffrey d
February 21st, 2010
10:41 pm
Look how long the starters were in the game….that’s 2 games in a row, Woodson. And this time against GOLDEN STATE. No wonder we were outscored by 21 in the 4th quarter
Tom O'Hawke
February 21st, 2010
10:42 pm
…and waiting for VJ to finish the Shrimp Scampi and pasta
Man, that’s one of my favorite dishes. You know, in retrospect, instead of fighting Jim for you, I should have fought you for Jim. Just for the cooking, mostly …. not the other stuff …. not that there’s anything wrong with that.
Ahhh, I probably would’ve lost that one too.
DAP
February 21st, 2010
10:43 pm
Chipper isn’t at camp be ause he is hanging out with his buddy Jason aldean. Aldean did a concert here in Augusta this weekend, and chipper was there with him.
nolie
February 21st, 2010
10:43 pm
almost certainly Tom
cabravesfan
February 21st, 2010
10:43 pm
Tom-
You can still fight me for him…but I will win
Steve from OH
February 21st, 2010
10:44 pm
Absolutely nolie, he definitely needs work in that area, but he did well in the power and plate discipline department in 2009.
I think I’m gonna go Shanks on him. He’s the best. Heyward, watch out.
Soph
February 21st, 2010
10:46 pm
They’re having a meltdown on the Hawks blog. It’s just like when people freak out on here except change the players names and Fire Woody instead.
nolie
February 21st, 2010
10:50 pm
I guess maybe I’m already on record about how little regard I have for guys who can’t hit at least 250
, and if he can’t do it in the minors he’s gonna have a hard time doing it in the bigs.
Tom O'Hawke
February 21st, 2010
10:51 pm
You can still fight me for him…but I will win
There’s not much doubt about that. Even my friend, nolie, agrees with you.
Maybe, I’ll have a better shot trying to get Rachel Ray to move in with me. (Or would Julia Childs be a better comparison?
)
nolie
February 21st, 2010
10:52 pm
SOPH, are you gonna change your name in the fall?
nolie
February 21st, 2010
10:54 pm
I hear that Julia doesn’t talk a lot any more Tom, so she might fit in better
Soph
February 21st, 2010
10:54 pm
Nope nolie – why? Should I?
jeffrey d
February 21st, 2010
10:54 pm
Well the “Fire Wren because he tarded Vasquez for Melky!!!!!1!!” people are obviously loonie, but when we get upset at Cox for putting in Greg Norton with the game on the line and the bases loaded, we have a legitimate beef with him.
Same with Woodson…he runs his starters (especially Joe Johnson) into the ground. He’s been doing it for years now. Except when he did it on Friday against the Suns, he admitted that it was a mistake. So what does he do against the lowly Warriors? He does it again. J Crawford was the only person off the bench with more than 12 minutes.
Venice Jim
February 21st, 2010
10:55 pm
Tom O – cabravesfan thought you were insulting me, but I was fixated on the unnecessary ’s’ on the name Jullia Child.
nolie
February 21st, 2010
10:56 pm
I just thought your name meant that you were a sophomore, guess either I was wrong or you missed the “Leave no one behind” cut this year.
Soph
February 21st, 2010
10:56 pm
Oh, nolie – my name doesn’t stand for sophomore if that’s what you meant. Soph = Sophia.
nolie
February 21st, 2010
10:57 pm
aha! comes te dawn Sophia. Pretty name.
Soph
February 21st, 2010
10:58 pm
lol nolie, I was left behind years ago.
jeffrey d
February 21st, 2010
10:59 pm
This is her third season as a Braves fan, so she will be changing it. 5 more years and we’ll be calling her Doc
The Bird and Indian
February 21st, 2010
10:59 pm
All hell has broken out on the blog again. It’s why I’ve slowly drifted away from here. Most of the true fans are gone. I ask why Bone and some other even bother coming to this blog on a regular basis. If you hate this team so much, why are you here? You want the team to leave? I’m sorry a team that has been 3rd in the conference for a big part of the year is so bad to you. I wish we had Golden State fans. Did you see that crowd tonight? They have one of the worst coaches and owners in the league, yet they sell out the house on a Sunday night game. It was a trap game. I knew it was a trap game, nonetheless it hurts. The Hawks have got to buckle down and make a run at the 3rd seed. I really don’t want to play Toronto in that first round.
The schedule gets real light here soon. Other than Utah and Dallas, it’s considerable easy. We can easily go on a 9 out of 10 and get the groove back. Boston and Cleveland are struggling as well, so we need to try to gain some ground there.
Joe played very well tonight. I’m not sure where the dogging is coming from. You don’t realize how much he has to do every night to get his points. He’s not getting an easy 25 like Kobe does. He has to do it 1 on 1/2 and just do hard work. Every source from the outside of the organization repeatedly praises Joe Johnson every night for what he has done and is doing in Atlanta. It’s why he makes the All-Star team every year and gets voted most underrated by all NBA player polls/Analysts. I think he’s so underrated because of our fans. Every other team praises their all-star and does everything they can to represent them and advertise them, while we sit around and say how we need a new star and we need to trade him. Joe Johnson isn’t even close to the problem with this team.
The problem is the point guard position. It’s Mike Bibby. His confidence has absolutely flopped. He doesn’t take big shots anymore. He doesn’t provide effort and hustle like a point guard should. I’m all for playing Jeff Teague now so he’s ready for the playoffs, because Mike Bibby cannot guard Jose Calderon, or Derrick Rose, or Raymond Felton, or Jameer Nelson, or Rajon Rondo, or whatever point guard we might have to face. The only guards he can handle that will be in the playoffs is Chalmers and maybe Mo Williams. I was hoping we were the ones trying to get Nate Robinson. We could have tried to get some kind of quick guard with a little experience. If Mike Bibby keeps it up and Teague doesn’t get time, that will be the reason we are out in 5/6 games in the 2nd round of the playoffs.
Hawks fans, calm down. We have one of the youngest and best teams in the NBA in ATLANTA! The cursed basketball city. Think about 4 years ago, this time. I’m very satisfied with my team. Go out and support them, because if Joe leaves this summer and we find ourselves with Josh Smith as our star, it will be back to the 30-52 seasons. Have fun whining. I’m gonna go and get back in place at the Braves blog that I haven’t participated much in as of late. Go Hawks!
Soph
February 21st, 2010
11:00 pm
Thanks nolie!
Tom – you should look into Rachael Ray. She’ll have dinner on the table for you in 30 minutes.
Tom O'Hawke
February 21st, 2010
11:00 pm
but I was fixated on the unnecessary ’s’ on the name Jullia Child.
Hey, Jim, you’re right. Now I feel like such an “s”.
nolie
February 21st, 2010
11:01 pm
All hell has broken out on the blog again. B & I
gee I hadn’t noticed (scratches head in bewilderment)
The Bird and Indian
February 21st, 2010
11:02 pm
Wow! My bad about that last post. That wasn’t meant to be here. I had 2 tabs up and commented it here. Anyways….
It’s been a while since I’ve been around these parts but it’s getting close, and I can’t wait. I’m ready for my Spring Training visit coming up here in a couple of weeks. March 2nd is when baseball begins for me. (MLB 10 The Show)
Soph
February 21st, 2010
11:02 pm
Hey B & I – wrong blog. I thought of you earlier after the Hawks blew it.
Tom O'Hawke
February 21st, 2010
11:04 pm
Jim, would you have bought that Julia Childs is a great looking up-and-coming young chef? Probably not, huh? Now I feel like an even bigger “s”.
Soph
February 21st, 2010
11:04 pm
5 more years and we’ll be calling her Doc
I like it! Why don’t we start now?
The Bird and Indian
February 21st, 2010
11:05 pm
Soph: I’m glad you think of me when the Hawks blow a game.
I feel like a fool posting that here.
DOB: You can delete that one.
Venice Jim
February 21st, 2010
11:06 pm
Tom O / Soph – I will freely admit to stealing much from Ms. Ray…30 minutes is a good way to go most of the time…
jeffrey d
February 21st, 2010
11:07 pm
If you keep changing your name every year, then I will gladly call you Doctor Sophia in 2015
nolie
February 21st, 2010
11:07 pm
no leave it here, it’s the only exciting post of the night
jeffrey d
February 21st, 2010
11:08 pm
DOB: You can delete that one.
No way. We’ve all had to live with embarrassing gaffes on here. You do too.
Soph
February 21st, 2010
11:09 pm
It’s okay B & I – happens to the best of us.
VJ – I’ve never tried any of Rachael’s recipes, are they really doable in 30 minutes?
Venice Jim
February 21st, 2010
11:11 pm
Soph – in most cases – of course, she never has to run to the store for something she forgot or ran out of…
The Bird and Indian
February 21st, 2010
11:11 pm
Jeffrey: I guess so. Well, there are probably more true Hawks fans on here than there are on that ridiculous blog. After Sekou left for nba.com. it all went downhill. I hope DOB doesn’t leave us for mlb.com.
Soph
February 21st, 2010
11:12 pm
I’m so smart that you can start calling me Doc now. I won’t need 5 years.
Tom O'Hawke
February 21st, 2010
11:15 pm
Tom – you should look into Rachael Ray. She’ll have dinner on the table for you in 30 minutes
Soph, I tried to make a reservation with her, a long time ago. Damn, she’s got one of those marriages that seems to be working. (Did you know she grew up in my area … upstate NY?)
Thanks, B&I, us “s’s” love company.
Soph
February 21st, 2010
11:15 pm
VJ, you have to share one of your special recipes with me on fb! I like collecting them.
nolie
February 21st, 2010
11:18 pm
Tommy : Did you hear I finally graduated?
Richard Hayden : Yeah, and just a shade under a decade too. All right.
Tommy : You know a lot of people go to college for seven years.
Richard Hayden : I know, they’re called doctors.
jeffrey d
February 21st, 2010
11:19 pm
I hope DOB doesn’t leave us for mlb.com
And then Bowman takes over. You think some people complain all the food talk now? Just wait til Bowman comes.
Soph
February 21st, 2010
11:20 pm
I’ve never visited Bowman’s blog. Does he really discuss food that much or are people assuming he likes food a lot?
nolie
February 21st, 2010
11:22 pm
it’s just folks and their fat jokes Doc
jeffrey d
February 21st, 2010
11:23 pm
Yeah, that was mean. I’m sure Bowman’s a good guy
RHR
February 21st, 2010
11:24 pm
lol Soph I don’t think I’ve ever seen Bowman mention food on one of his blogs, if we only had ‘amount of food discussion in blog’ to go on for visual images of our beat writers, we’d all think DOB was HUGE and Bowman a skinny man.
Tom O'Hawke
February 21st, 2010
11:26 pm
VJ – I’ve never tried any of Rachael’s recipes, are they really doable in 30 minutes?
For sure, Soph, providing someone cuts, dices, slices, chops and separates the ingredients into individual containers, before your kitchen cameras start rolling.
Tommy : You know a lot of people go to college for seven years.
Richard Hayden : I know, they’re called doctors.
That sucks. I spent 7 years in high school and nobody is calling me “doctor”.
Soph
February 21st, 2010
11:28 pm
I figured it was jokes but he gets blasted a lot on here so I was just wondering.
nolie
February 21st, 2010
11:28 pm
I spent 7 in college and nobody calls me doc either
RHR
February 21st, 2010
11:29 pm
I’m not sure why people hate on Bowman, as far as I know he’s never done anything wrong. But I mean, you know how some people on here are so take it for what its worth lol.
RHR
February 21st, 2010
11:30 pm
I could’ve been a doctor twice if I put all my years together lol.
Steve from OH
February 21st, 2010
11:31 pm
RHR–I don’t either. Dunno why people gotta rag on Bowman and DOB all the time, but different strokes for different folks, I guess…
nolie
February 21st, 2010
11:32 pm
RHR are you “just” a nurse?? :0
RHR
February 21st, 2010
11:33 pm
lol nolie, no i wasn’t trying to be a nurse during all that time, it just took me a while to figure out what i wanted to be when i grow up.
nolie
February 21st, 2010
11:33 pm
RHR watch any Nurse Jackie ? I think it’s pretty decent.
RHR
February 21st, 2010
11:34 pm
but i do have a bsn, not just the asn so theres 4 years i didn’t waste lol
nolie
February 21st, 2010
11:35 pm
I’m still tryin’ to decide> I tried about 30 different things over the years. I guess I’ll settle for retirement.
Crime Dog
February 21st, 2010
11:35 pm
Bowman is good people. And a very good reporter.
cabravesfan
February 21st, 2010
11:39 pm
Tom-
You will be happy to know that the shrimp scampi was excellent
I’ve never tried Rachel Ray’s recipes either, but I like my method of cooking…let VJ do it while I drink wine on the sofa
The Bird and Indian
February 21st, 2010
11:39 pm
I hope Wagner and Saito are looking good out there.
nolie
February 21st, 2010
11:39 pm
Fat bias
Venice Jim
February 21st, 2010
11:46 pm
Soph – by the way, my specialty is a dish I ate once at a restaurant (long since defunct) called The Brass Rail on Franklin Street on the outskirts of Chapel Hill – I managed to recreate the recipe without too much trouble (although the title of the dish includes all the ingredients, so not exactly too tricky)…
Tom O'Hawke
February 21st, 2010
11:47 pm
…I like my method of cooking…let VJ do it while I drink wine on the sofa
To be honest with you, cabravesfan, I can’t think of the last time I was this jealous.
RHR
February 21st, 2010
11:50 pm
oh and i have minors in psychology and nutrition, which, you know, it doesn’t take much to get a minor but it sounds better anyway.
cabravesfan
February 21st, 2010
11:50 pm
Tom-
My work here is done
Venice Jim
February 21st, 2010
11:51 pm
I’m not quite sure how to feel…
Soph
February 21st, 2010
11:51 pm
VJ – what is the recipe? Do share.
Tom O'Hawke
February 21st, 2010
11:54 pm
VJ – what is the recipe? Do share.
Soph, first things first. What’s the name of the damn dish?
BravePack12523
February 21st, 2010
11:54 pm
USA USA USA USA- I really think with the way these guys are playing as a team and no superstar complex we can win the gold. What a great hockey game that was earlier. There is nothing like going into Canada’s homr ice and beating them at their own game. That empty net goal by Kesler to out work and out hustle and one hand the puck in the net just shows the grit and determination this USA team has this year. What a great feeling to see all those fans in red who think they are so much better than us and give no respect to USA hockey go home a loser. Go USA bring home the gold. What a great time-USA olympic hockey and the start of Braves baseball.
Tom O'Hawke
February 21st, 2010
11:55 pm
I’m not quite sure how to feel…
Jim, feel flattered and wanted … then drop it and never mention it again.
nolie
February 21st, 2010
11:58 pm
DOB seen The Ghost Writer yet? Pretty good Polanski flick with Pierce Brosnan.
slugger (www.thweeklyscene.com)
February 21st, 2010
11:59 pm
Spring’s in the air, and Elon started off their 2010 season going 3-0 this weekend (not the strongest opponents, but they weren’t complete cupcakes).
Elon Alum Cory Harrilchak tore it up in Danville last year, and he’s a guy you’re all going to enjoy watching (if you get the chance in Rome or Myrtle this year).
He’s a good kid that I talked with a lot when he visited his soph year (final juco year) in his recruiting visit to Elon. You all will love his speed + smooth left-handed swing.
Excited for this season, and I think ATL wins the East or gets the Wild Card.
Go Braves!
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
12:08 am
I still don’t think it’s funny dude.
Soph
February 22nd, 2010
12:12 am
I want to brag about the weather to cab but nolie will probably one-up me again.
TnBrian
February 22nd, 2010
12:12 am
nolie, somebody else didn’t either dude. Got deleted.
TnBrian
February 22nd, 2010
12:13 am
Soph, nolie one-ups everybody. He’s THE MAN!
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
12:15 am
go for it Soph, I’ll behave.
Soph
February 22nd, 2010
12:16 am
68 and sunny. Not a cloud in sight this afternoon!
unbelievable
February 22nd, 2010
12:17 am
KVD wins his 3rd bassmasters classic. Dude is great at what he does
Soph
February 22nd, 2010
12:17 am
VJ better not have left without telling me the name of that recipe he was talking about.
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
12:19 am
pretty funny Brian after all the times I’ve stuck up for your sorry butt here on the board
Tom O'Hawke
February 22nd, 2010
12:21 am
On a more serious, note (seriously); does anyone know how to discern the actual blog, from all the mini satellite blogs, that have cropped up recently?
Because of work, I can miss reading the blog for days at a time. When I tried to find it earlier, well, let’s just say that there was an awful lot of cussin’ goin’ on.
DOB, no offense to you, man. I’ve read enough of you to know that you have way too much common sense to come up with this asinine idea.
My Italian grandmother used to say, “no breaka, no fixa”. Some genius from AJC found a way to “breaka”.
Jake W.
February 22nd, 2010
12:21 am
Well I don’t watch hockey much but that game tonight, USA against Canada was a good one. Kind of took the sting out of the Hawks blowing that big lead in Golden State. But hey, the Hawks just wouldn’t be the Hawks if they didn’t do that at least once a year. Seems like every year there is a road game where they lead big and seem to be able to go to cruise control then next thing you know the game is tied. They got to get over this one quick though because they are in Utah tomorrow night.
I’m glad the Johnny Damon drama is over. I really think he’s just a better fit for the AL so while it may be the money that lured him to Detroit over Atlanta he was just better suited for the AL anyway in my opinion.
Spring Training is here and it looks like Billy Wagner is feeling at home again here in the south. Need a big year from him and Saito. Here’s hoping Bobby doesn’t run them into the ground.
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
12:23 am
look for the lyrics Tommy
Soph
February 22nd, 2010
12:23 am
But hey, the Hawks just wouldn’t be the Hawks if they didn’t do that at least once a year.
So true, Jake. I’ve grown to expect it once in a while now.
Venice Jim
February 22nd, 2010
12:24 am
Tom O, Soph – cabravesfan is yelling at me not to give away my secrets – not sure how that would diminish her enjoyment
…the name is chicken breast stuffed with boursin and sausage – just 1/2 a pack of Jimmy Dean hot sausage mixed with half a package of boursin cheese, spread inside 4 chicken breast halves…the sauce is a bit trickier…it took me a few years to perfect that…
TnBrian
February 22nd, 2010
12:24 am
nolie, huh? Just a little jabbin’ on my part. You kinda jabbed at me with that link of mine, so …
Alright, it was mean and childish, but it’s late and I think the children are asleep. Of course I like you nolie. Who else am I gonna go to for some honest and accurate whatever about this game? Seriously, you know your stuff.
Soph
February 22nd, 2010
12:27 am
cab – don’t be selfish.
I’m sure VJ has plenty of tricks up his sleeve. VJ, that sounds goooood but I don’t do well with tricky.
TnBrian
February 22nd, 2010
12:27 am
Anybody else checked out Vazquez’ number with NY? It’s 31 and I’m not sure he’s worn a number besides 33, but Swisher has that.
The Bird and Indian
February 22nd, 2010
12:28 am
That hockey game was something else. I still see the Russians taking it home with Ovechkin and good ole’ Kovy. I miss that kid.
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
12:28 am
With all the steroids and insulin and other stuff I take, I’ve gotten very heavy and I guess I an defensive about it at times. Brian. I really don’t see any humor in rippin’ a guy cause he is heavy.
Venice Jim
February 22nd, 2010
12:29 am
Soph – it’s just learning the secret to preparing a roux for the sauce that I had not done yet…
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
12:31 am
aha, the roue rues an unfinished roux?
Tom O'Hawke
February 22nd, 2010
12:32 am
cabravesfan is yelling at me not to give away my secrets
I, at least, just wanted to know the name of your specialty dish. If I said, “hydrogen bomb”, would everyone automatically know how to assemble it?
Of course, now I’m ecstatic that you shared your recipe with us. Thank you.
Hey, cabravesfan, nah-nah-nah-nah(higher)-nahhh-nah. (picture an emoticon with the tongue sticking out)
Soph
February 22nd, 2010
12:34 am
Here Tom, allow me:
P'cola Brave
February 22nd, 2010
12:35 am
What is the date of the first ST game? Is it televised?
TnBrian
February 22nd, 2010
12:37 am
nolie, I’m not one to talk. I could lose some gut myself. You’re right, I got teased relentlessly in school for being very small, then got teased because I got my self so big and I know the feeling. Just tried to get a few giggles on a late Sunday evening, I guess.
Venice Jim
February 22nd, 2010
12:40 am
Tom – she has wandered to the bedroom to watch ice dancing, but I passed on your tongue (that didn’t sound right, did it?). I have remained behind listening to my old buddies in Richmond playing Irish music on YouTube, as I start mentally preparing for St. Paddy’s Day (which is just the other side of someone’s b-day)…
DiamondbackMac
February 22nd, 2010
12:50 am
DOB
Thank you for your excellent work.
Everyone else
As always it’s been a pleasure reading your posts (most of you).;) Good night and may God bless and keep you all.
Tom O'Hawke
February 22nd, 2010
12:50 am
Hey Soph, thanks. Ya know, I’ve used that guy before
, without knowing its tongue was sticking out. I had to magnify my page to see if you were on the up and up. (I guess you can learn something new everyday)
….but I passed on your tongue (that didn’t sound right, did it?).
Don’t worry, my friend. With the way some of our conversation has gone tonight, it just makes for continuity.
Tom O'Hawke
February 22nd, 2010
12:55 am
Good night and may God bless
This is the first that I knew Red Skelton is a Braves’ fan.
DiamondbackMac
February 22nd, 2010
12:58 am
Tom O’Hawk
Since he’s dead, I would imagine that he’s an angles fan.
TnBrian
February 22nd, 2010
1:00 am
DiamondbackMac, God Bless you sir.
nolie has me feeling bad right now.
Venice Jim
February 22nd, 2010
1:01 am
Tom O – you’re too young to know Red Skelton – off to bed myself – have a good evening…
Tom O'Hawke
February 22nd, 2010
1:01 am
Since he’s dead, I would imagine that he’s an angels fan.
Excellent point, DiamondbackMac!
Tom O'Hawke
February 22nd, 2010
1:07 am
you’re too young to know Red Skelton
Jim, long story. The short version is, I studied early pioneers in TV, years ago.
Good night. If our “LAdy” is still awake, tell her good night for me.
DiamondbackMac
February 22nd, 2010
1:08 am
Tom
I, however, have been a Braves fan since they were in Milwaukee.
TnBrian
February 22nd, 2010
1:08 am
Since some here got onto Tebow for his religious “rants” as they called them and even a poster or two called Matty D. a “bible thumper” some time ago I’d like to say it’s always nice to here positive talk wherever you go in a crazy,selfish world. And this is coming from a guy who linked a mean video about a a guy just half an hour ago. Probably hypocritical on my part, but whatever.
DiamondbackMac
February 22nd, 2010
1:11 am
It’s hereditary, my father was a Boston Braves fan. And, his father was a Braves fan before him.
Tom O'Hawke
February 22nd, 2010
1:21 am
Tom
I, however, have been a Braves fan since they were in Milwaukee.
It’s hereditary, my father was a Boston Braves fan. And, his father was a Braves fan before him.
That’s great stuff, DiamondbackMac . My father was a Milwaukee Braves’ fan. It’s hereditary for me too.
DiamondbackMac
February 22nd, 2010
1:23 am
TnBrian
The world isn’t selfish and crazy, just some of the people in it. Avoid them whenever possible. When it’s not possible, forgive them.
DiamondbackMac
February 22nd, 2010
1:25 am
Tom
My earliest memories of the Milwaukee Braves was listening to them on the radio in the early 60’s.
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
1:26 am
well I’m gonna give shuteye a try. nite y’all. at least for a while
DiamondbackMac
February 22nd, 2010
1:28 am
G’night nolie.
DiamondbackMac
February 22nd, 2010
1:28 am
Pleasant dreams.
Tom O'Hawke
February 22nd, 2010
1:30 am
‘Night nolie.
Andrew in PA
February 22nd, 2010
1:33 am
nolie will be back on here in an hour or two
Home of the Braves
February 22nd, 2010
1:36 am
As a frequent reader and pretty infrequent poster, I have to say that Tom O and DBackMac deserve a lot of credit for the Red Skelton conversation. That was downright clever and funny.
Really enjoyed the blog these past two days. All the updates from DOB plus a lot of generally intelligent conversations of prospects and thoughts on the way the team stacks up have really gotten me into the baseball mood again.
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
1:39 am
Brian I think you got a good heart dude. Which is why i don’t like it when guys pick on you too much.
Tom O'Hawke
February 22nd, 2010
1:40 am
My earliest memories of the Milwaukee Braves was listening to them on the radio in the early 60’s.
DiamondbackMac, my father grew up in Montreal and was a Dodgers’ fan … which also meant a Yankee hater. The Dodgers’ AAA team, back in those days was the Montreal Royals.
He was very upset when the Dodgers left Brooklyn to go to LA (sorry cab). He disowned them.
As he still was a Yankee hater, and the Milwaukee Braves played and defeated the “hated Yankees” in the ‘57 world series, he became a fan. (There’s a piece of Tom O’Hawke history, for you)
DiamondbackMac
February 22nd, 2010
1:41 am
Home of the Braves
Gracias amigo/amiga!
DiamondbackMac
February 22nd, 2010
1:44 am
Tom
I’m sure that many of us on the blog have similar stories to tell. It would be nice to hear more of them.
Tom O'Hawke
February 22nd, 2010
1:46 am
As a frequent reader and pretty infrequent poster, I have to say that Tom O and DBackMac deserve a lot of credit for the Red Skelton conversation. That was downright clever and funny.
Speaking for myself, and DiamondbackMac, I think Home of the Braves should post a lot more often.
DiamondbackMac
February 22nd, 2010
1:52 am
Tom
Speaking for myself, and DiamondbackMac, I think Home of the Braves should post a lot more often.
ROFL
Tom O'Hawke
February 22nd, 2010
1:54 am
nolie will be back on here in an hour or two —- Andrew in PA @ 1:33 am
Brian I think you got a good heart dude. Which is why i don’t like it when guys pick on you too much —- nolie @ 1:39 am
Andrew, I was gonna say that I’ll say closer to 1 hour. Never did I think 6 minutes, however.
Home of the Braves
February 22nd, 2010
1:56 am
Haha. Thanks guys. I’ve been trying to start posting more recently (though I think it’s about once a day at this point). I’ve always just read for the updates. I leave the boisterous opinion forming up to everybody else. I’m too much of an optimist for everyone to want to hear my opinions anyway. I’d sound like Bobby had started getting on my computer (not insulting Bobby’s intelligence, don’t get me wrong, he just doesn’t seem like the computer type) and started posting…
Oh and DiamondbackMac, I’m an amigo…
DiamondbackMac
February 22nd, 2010
2:02 am
Home of the Braves
I’ve been trying to start posting more recently
I rarely post myself. The main reason is that I type slowly, arthritis.
DiamondbackMac
February 22nd, 2010
2:16 am
Well folks I’m seeing lightning to the southwest so it’s time to unplug, go to bed, and pull the covers over my head (storm is on the way).
Tom O'Hawke
February 22nd, 2010
2:24 am
Good night, DiamondbackMac. It’s been fun.
Oh and DiamondbackMac, I’m an amigo…
It’s OK, I guess, Home of the Braves. No one ever said this was a perfect blog …
I can't take it anymore
February 22nd, 2010
4:17 am
sleep is for the dead
Rob from SC
February 22nd, 2010
5:01 am
do position players report today?
ncgary
February 22nd, 2010
5:11 am
that they do rob,
nolie ever thought about chia seeds,
south americans used to use them as currency
they absorb 12 times their weight in liquid and
are supposed to be good for diabetes also
i havent triied them but they say they suppress the appetite
me i eat like a horse and weigh the same as i did
30 years ago
sorry but i can still wear my high school jeans
Jay212033
February 22nd, 2010
5:22 am
Rob
Yep, everyone is suppose to report today.
Rob from SC
February 22nd, 2010
6:07 am
Jay212033
February 22nd, 2010
5:22 am
Rob
Yep, everyone is suppose to report today.
what a great day
Runnin
February 22nd, 2010
6:44 am
I thought March 1st was the official day for everyone.
Rob from SC
February 22nd, 2010
7:01 am
Runnin
February 22nd, 2010
6:44 am
I thought March 1st was the official day for everyone.
march 2nd is our first game
David O'Brien
February 22nd, 2010
7:04 am
I miss The Shield. — DMBJAMS
Don’t we all? Terrific show. At least we’ll get Shane (Georgia boy Walter Goggins) on the new FX show, Justified. But we gotta know if Vic Mackey is still on desk duty, or pursuing justice on the side in his spectacularly corrupt manner — or if our shiny-domed Bad Man just snapped and went completely to the other side….
Good morning all, from the Braves/MIB Blog satellite office only two exits from Dark Star, where I’m on cup No. 2 and the sun’s turning the sky orange-pink over Lake Bryan here at the condo. We’ll be headed over to the park shortly.
CB
February 22nd, 2010
7:04 am
Actually, tomorrow is the official day. VJ,thanks but best team won. There may be another day of meeting down the road.
GovClintonTyree
February 22nd, 2010
7:47 am
DOB, as a Florida native, I can’t think of a worse place to spend six weeks than the middle of that crap. Focus on the baseball and find fun where you can. Guess it’s the downside of your vocation; well, that and lost luggage.
O.J.
February 22nd, 2010
7:49 am
Hmmmm, I thought the Yankees only had 2 million left to spend, and they gave that to Randy Winn. Now they sign Chan Ho Park for 1.2 million. HUH?
sidslidkid
February 22nd, 2010
8:07 am
DOB, see if you can get a “Hoss quote” out of Chipper.
Haulin' the Tarp
February 22nd, 2010
8:09 am
Any news to report? Hows everyone feeling since its first day for everyone
Obee
February 22nd, 2010
8:14 am
It’s hard to take Bobby’s comments very seriously this time of year, since he always seems to be the number one optimist when spring training begins. Nevertheless, I’m excited about this year. There are a lot of unanswered questions on offense, but if things go the right way, the Braves could be a run scoring machine. I suspect that Glaus and Cabrerra will be better than a lot of people think, and I also think it’s likely that Chipper will be back to his old form. Also think that Schafer may be the sleeper. It doesn’t seem like people are counting on much from him but I think he could be like Chipper in this way. If I recall (someone correct me if my memory’s faulty), Chipper was hurt very early in his career and missed what would have been his first full year. Then he came back strong. I’m betting that if he’s healthy, he’ll be a regular in the outfield by the second half.
Jay212033
February 22nd, 2010
8:17 am
DOB
It’s not raining down there? It poured here in ATL last night.
sidslidkid
February 22nd, 2010
8:23 am
Obee, The only way I see Schafer starting is if there are injuries. I can’t see anyway that he will start over McLouth or Heyward. And he would have to out preform Diaz, Melky, and Hinske. It’s possible that McLouth will struggle a whole helluva lot and we will have to call Schafer up, but nobody wants that to happen.
Macon Braves (RIP)
February 22nd, 2010
8:32 am
Six different links to finally find the REAL blog!!! Come on DOB, fight for us here, this new format is stupid and aggravating!!
Macon Braves (RIP)
February 22nd, 2010
8:41 am
I would still read all of your short update stories even if they were just under the Braves headlines. They don’t have to trick us into clicking on them while making us search for the real blog.
Fischerking04
February 22nd, 2010
8:49 am
Great blog DOB—
It’s good to hear about what the players are actually doing, as opposed to speculation and hear-say. Now the countdown for Heyward.
toga party
February 22nd, 2010
8:52 am
O.J., I believe the Yankees said they only had $2 million left to spend on their outfield. Not $2 million left to spend overall.
Really, I think they were just saying that to justify not pursuing Damon after their initial offer was rejected, and other things started to take shape.
sidslidkid
February 22nd, 2010
8:55 am
I wonder if fans are going to consIder Heyward a bust if he hits less than .285 AVG, 20 HR, 85 RBI?
Don
February 22nd, 2010
8:57 am
Who pays any attention to what Bobby Cox says about a player. He always says – its great.
sidslidkid
February 22nd, 2010
9:00 am
Who pays any attention to what Don says about a coach. He always says – it sucks.
Someone
February 22nd, 2010
9:17 am
Good Morning. This is an experiment.
Someone
February 22nd, 2010
9:18 am
Didn’t work.
RHR
February 22nd, 2010
9:18 am
Maybe you should’ve given it more time.
bravofan
February 22nd, 2010
9:18 am
play streak for the cash with me on espn the group is called Atlanta Braves all you have to have is an espn account come play its fun
Someone
February 22nd, 2010
9:20 am
RHR
I was experimenting with changing fonts.
Steve McP
February 22nd, 2010
9:29 am
Didn’t the dreaded PL talk a lot about streak for the cash? Is it safe to be there?
Smitty
February 22nd, 2010
9:31 am
Bravofan: Hey are you the only one in the group for Streak for the Cash? I joined yours my espn account is wildcatfrwd10 let me know if I joined the right group
Smitty
February 22nd, 2010
9:35 am
Man I’m ready for baseball to start! This is the greatest time of the year!
Smitty
February 22nd, 2010
9:35 am
Andrew n PA: are you going to get over to any of the Braves vs. Phillies games this year?
Smitty
February 22nd, 2010
9:38 am
Hey would any of you guys wanna get in a fantasy baseball league w/ me if I creat one on ESPN?
McFann
February 22nd, 2010
9:42 am
cabravesfan I am ashamed to admit that there was a moment of sheer madness when I thought that Mac’s birthday was in April
Well, that’s kind of understandable–you were prob’ly just thinking of my b-day.
David O'Brien
February 22nd, 2010
10:01 am
Chipper and Heyward among today’s arrivals, and everyone’s here except Escobar and Prado. At least we think that’s the case.
Yes, Heyward is bigger and ripped. I asked him specifically for height and weight, so we can get that straight. He said probably 6-6 in shoes (which means 6-5), and 245 pounds. Up from 230 last year.
He said he didn’t do any specific diet or increased weight work to put on the muscle.
“I’m just growing up,” he said. “Hopefully growing into my grown-man strength pretty soon.”
He smiled when he said that, probably because he knows he could rip off our heads now.
David O'Brien
February 22nd, 2010
10:04 am
Derek Lowe saw Heyward in batting cage this morning for first time since last year.
“He’s huge,” Lowe said. “He’s an outside linebacker.”
Chipper agreed with Lowe.
“He’s Jevon Kearse,” said Jones, a noted Gators fan. “He’s The Freak. I’m telling you, he’s a bigger version of Freddy McGriff.”
A much bigger version, I’d say. At least across the shoulders.
David O'Brien
February 22nd, 2010
10:09 am
But I should add, I’ve never see a baseball player carry 245 so easily. Dude looks like he could put on another 10 without even getting thick around middle. I’d be surprised if his waist is bigger than 31 or 32 inches. He’s still narrow in hips and waist, just wider in shoulders, thighs, etc. Folks, he’s a specimen.
GovClintonTyree
February 22nd, 2010
10:13 am
Yeah, but can he turn on a fastball under his hands?
GovClintonTyree
February 22nd, 2010
10:14 am
I do like the sound of the McGriff comparison. There was a lot to like about Fred.
I give Chipper’s comments my full endorsement.
RHR
February 22nd, 2010
10:15 am
Can he leap tall buildings in a single bound?
RHR
February 22nd, 2010
10:15 am
Or is it bounce? I can never remember…
Voice of Harold
February 22nd, 2010
10:16 am
DOB,
I realize Spring Training is a long process, but you do seem happy to be able to deliver some substantive news now. Beautiful weather doesn’t hurt, I’m sure.
I may have missed it, but what’s the hold up for Escobar and Prado?
And, how about KK? anything to report with respect to how he spent his offseason or his first few days in camp?
Jay212033
February 22nd, 2010
10:16 am
DOB
What does he look like hitting the ball? We’ve seen this out of another one of our phenoms as well so i’d like to know what he looks like hitting and fielding rather than his build.
N8
February 22nd, 2010
10:17 am
Are you guys seeing a different interface than I am when opening the main Braves page on the AJC? Because EVERYTIME that I click on the top story under DOB’s name, it’s the right blog.
I have yet to go to the wrong one? Usually I’m the one griping about format and what not, so I’m not getting on you guys, I get that it’s frustrating. But I just haven’t had trouble with it.
That being said, I recall in the last couple of days that even DOB said he posted on the wrong one. So…..
Where's Fluffy?
February 22nd, 2010
10:18 am
this new blog format reminds me of Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist where you have to run all around the city trying to find out where the Where’s Fluffy? band is playing
N8
February 22nd, 2010
10:18 am
“Or is it bounce? I can never remember… RHR
It’s bound. Captain Kangaroo could leap over little kids in a single bounce.
Jay212033
February 22nd, 2010
10:19 am
Can many players turn on a fastball under their hands?
TennesseePaul
February 22nd, 2010
10:20 am
“He’s huge,” Lowe said. “He’s an outside linebacker.”</me.
Can he still run like the wind? I heard he has 5 tools…
GovClintonTyree
February 22nd, 2010
10:20 am
Utley, for one.
Thrillhouse44
February 22nd, 2010
10:21 am
What does he look like hitting the ball?
Big…6′5″, 245 or so.
DAP
February 22nd, 2010
10:21 am
is it just me or did jay really come off as a jerk there?
hey jay, with all the hype about heyward, do you think its possible he has trouble hitting a baseball? seriously, with everything that has been said about him, and with his amazing minor league numbers, you think maybe he doesnt look to good swinging a baseball bat?
N8
February 22nd, 2010
10:21 am
Hey DOB, do you get into The Offspring? They used to really annoy me. But I’ve actually enjoyed some of their newer stuff, which has caused me to go back and enjoy some of the stuff from the early 90’s.
Pretty intense stuff for working out to.
RHR
February 22nd, 2010
10:22 am
Must be, N8. When I click on the banner, which is what I used to do, it goes to the latest burst he’s written and lists them in order from newest to oldest, I just look for the one with the most comments.
dpelfrey
February 22nd, 2010
10:23 am
I think DOB’s got a little “man crush” going on right now with Heyward. Come on, admit it, you blush when he talks to you.
Armbar
February 22nd, 2010
10:24 am
Enough with the “can he hit the inside fastball?”. None of you had ever heard of an armbar before Keith Law mentioned it, now half of you are running around saying “Armbar this, armbar that” as if you have a darn clue what you are discussing. Ah, shaaaaaadUP! Chrissakes, google “armbar” & “baseball” together, and you barely find anything discussing it. Freakin’ shameless plagiarizing amateurs
DAP
February 22nd, 2010
10:26 am
N8, if you go to the top of this page and click on the headline that says “atlanta braves” and has that pic of DOB, it will take you to a list of everything that he has written. that used to take you just to a list of his blogs. (thats where i always went to find the new blog) so last time i did that, it took me a minute to figure out which place was the blog and which place was just a info blurb. coming from the main ajc sports page is a little easier if that whats your used to doing.
unbelievable
February 22nd, 2010
10:28 am
just wondering why people arent moving to the new blogs? can everyone not view them?
GovClintonTyree
February 22nd, 2010
10:28 am
Mr. Armbar, I still don’t know what an armbar is. I do know you can get Ryan Howard out with inside fastballs but you have to be very precise. Big guys often like to get their arms extended, and I assumed that Heyward was no different. But that can leave you vulnerable to well placed inside stuff. Hence my question.
DAP
February 22nd, 2010
10:30 am
GovClintonTyree, a perfectly placed inside fastball is a very difficult pitch for every single major league baseball player.
its also a pitch that pitchers will miss with quite a bit.
O.J.
February 22nd, 2010
10:30 am
unbelievable, they arent new blogs, this is the blog.
RHR
February 22nd, 2010
10:30 am
It’s bound. Captain Kangaroo could leap over little kids in a single bounce.A
Thanks Nate, thats what I thought. Underdog could do it in a bound and a half.
Macon Braves (RIP)
February 22nd, 2010
10:30 am
I see now that if you click on DOB’s picture, it will take you to a whole list of stories and the blog and you can find the blog by looking for the one with the most comments. But if you just go down to the Braves section and go to “Braves Blog”, it takes you to the latest burst instead of the actual blog.
Really don’t get why they’ve changed it. Change for the sake of change isn’t always a good thing.
dpelfrey
February 22nd, 2010
10:32 am
I’ve heard of an “arm bar” long before Keith Law mentioned it. It’s just a fancy way of saying the front arm extends too early.
And you wouldn’t notice it in Heyward’s swing if you weren’t looking for it specifically. He’s the top prospect in baseball, so you shouldn’t be surprised that he’s being broken down to the n-th degree.
O.J.
February 22nd, 2010
10:32 am
I’m sorry, but if I am a pitcher, I would think twice about pitching a guy inside that is 6ft 5in and weighs 245 lbs of pure muscle.
I am sure most pitchers will shy away as well when they see how big he is.
N8
February 22nd, 2010
10:33 am
I don’t know if Jay came accross as a jerk or not. A little guarded/sarcastic maybe. Bottom line is that until Heyward does it for the ATLANTA Braves, he’s still just a top prospect. But he happens to be the #1 overall prospect in all of MLB. So I’m pretty sure that the kid can play.
Francoeur was never rated that high. He was never really accused of being a 5 tool player. Andruw was. Andruw had a very nice 10 year run.
If the Braves get 10 good/great years out of Heyward, I’m guessing they’ll be pretty happy. Not every top prospect automatically makes it to the HOF.
IMO, Heyward is the most highly touted prospect the Braves have had since Chipper. So comparing him to anybody else that’s come up isn’t accurate. Does that mean he’s a can’t miss guy? Nope. But unless you’re expecting 45 HR and 130 RBI right out of the gate, his window to be a success is pretty wide. Dude’s still a kid. Even Griffey Jr. didn’t hit more than 27 HR until age 23 (4th full season), in that band box of a park (Kingdome).
I would think if Heyward hits .275ish with 18-25 HR and plays stellar defense over the next 2-3 years, the Braves would be elated. From everything I’ve read about the kid, I don’t think those numbers are out of line to expect from him.
Lower your expectations and the kid will impress you. Putting him in the Pujols category before he’s played an inning in the big leagues, and you’re bound and determined to be disappointed. Which isn’t fair.
Macon Braves (RIP)
February 22nd, 2010
10:35 am
OK, so never mind. Even just clicking on DOB’s pic doesn’t even work now, it just takes you to the latest burst. Clicking on “Atlanta Braves” next to his pic will take you to a list of the bursts and blogs. Just have to look for which has the most comments to find the actual blog at that point.
I know I confuse easily, but I don’t feel bad with this one because I’m obviously not the only one hating this new setup.
N8
February 22nd, 2010
10:35 am
Gotcha DAP. I just have the Braves page bookmarked, and then click on the first story under DOB’s name, and it’s always the latest blog. But that’s how I’ve always done it. So I guess that’s why it isn’t giving me trouble.
O.J.
February 22nd, 2010
10:36 am
N8, you make very good points.
Macon Braves (RIP)
February 22nd, 2010
10:37 am
I thought an arm bar is what Rasslers used to twist each other’s arms out of their sockets?
O.J.
February 22nd, 2010
10:38 am
Actually, if you look at the Braves Page on ajc.com, to the right of the picture of the main story, it says Braves Blog, and underneath that it says, David O’Brien, and underneath that, it has the main blog. Not that hard really. Just click the link under DOBs name and you are in the main blog.
Macon Braves (RIP)
February 22nd, 2010
10:42 am
N8, I see how you’re getting around the problem and think I will just bookmark the Braves main page myself. Thanks for the idea.
Jay212033
February 22nd, 2010
10:44 am
Coming off like a jerk?!?! All I’m saying is I would rather know how a player performs rather than know about his physique. People on this board constantly take stuff the wrong way.
And the comment about the fastball under the hands I said can many players hit that pitch and you and name too many player that can hit that pitch. The ones that can are basically your top flight players.
Macon Braves (RIP)
February 22nd, 2010
10:48 am
I see Jeff Schultz wants Escobar back in the leadoff spot. Don’t really get that, since Escobar was really good last year down in the order and showed he can be a very good run producer there. I understand the Braves don’t have a prototypical leadoff guy, but I would rather have McLouth there. Mclouth is a run producer too, but at least he can steal a base while Escobar can’t (not to mention what a terrible baserunner Escobar is overall).
CB
February 22nd, 2010
10:49 am
I like Armbar, could we designate him as the blog policeman?
N8
February 22nd, 2010
10:49 am
O.J. has it dead on. That’s what I’ve been doing and it works everytime. Easiest way that I can see to circumvent the issue everybody has been having.
Every now and then that spot has a story in it and you have to search the main page for the “Braves blog” headline. But as soon as you find that, you’re home free.
Macon Braves (RIP)
February 22nd, 2010
10:50 am
And the comment about the fastball under the hands I said can many players hit that pitch and you and name too many player that can hit that pitch.
He say huh?
CB
February 22nd, 2010
10:51 am
Well,at least until he gives me a hard time.
NCmike
February 22nd, 2010
10:52 am
Agreed Macon Braves… Escobar is not a very good leadoff guy, other than his relatively high OBP. McClouth is definitely our best option on the roster.
NCmike
February 22nd, 2010
10:53 am
So does anyone know… Does Heyward have a nickname? He screams of someone that needs a nickname…
P'cola Brave
February 22nd, 2010
10:53 am
I don’t know why we would put Escobar back up top. He’s starting to really develop as a run producer. IMO I’d leave him right there in the 6 hole were he can do the most damage.
Jay212033
February 22nd, 2010
10:54 am
That should read he couldn’t name too many players that could hit that pitch. I’m typing from my phone sue me lol!
DAP
February 22nd, 2010
10:54 am
jay All I’m saying is I would rather know how a player performs rather than know about his physique.
DOB is reporting his build, you post that youd rather hear about how he is hitting the ball. its easy to misunderstand in type, but it seemed kinda jerkish to me. day one of spring training at 10am, and your complaining about reports.
if you really cant stand the wait, youtube “jason heyward”. there are some videos of him swinging it up there.
David O'Brien
February 22nd, 2010
10:57 am
Hank Aaron’s in the house. The Big Brave, the real Home Run Champion, is here — and so is Braves’ future, Jason Heyward.
Hank’s at the batting cage, watching pitcher and catchers hit against Derek Lowe right now. We’re going to get to talk to him a little later, so be sure he’ll get asked about Heyward.
David O'Brien
February 22nd, 2010
11:01 am
All I’m saying is I would rather know how a player performs rather than know about his physique. — Jay
OK, well so far he’s “performed” well hitting in the batting cage beyond left field in early BP. He can’t hit on the field because full-squad workouts don’t start till tomorrow and only pitchers, catchers and players rehabbing injuries can be on the main field until then.
But he’s performed well, I guess, whacking balls into the netting. And on the Caravan. Performed well there. Other than that, only played four games in Fall League, so not anything else to report on performance since last fall.
Oh, and Jay, he performed well in his interview while ago.
Macon Braves (RIP)
February 22nd, 2010
11:03 am
Heyward nickname= Hey Hey Kid…
And no I’m not comparing him to Willie Mays……yet.
Hillbilly
February 22nd, 2010
11:05 am
So does anyone know… Does Heyward have a nickname? He screams of someone that needs a nickname…
Please, for the love of God, don’t let “J-Hey” catch on. The obligatory “first initial plus first syllable of last name” method of nicknaming just sucks in general, but in this case it sounds like a boy band member. Make it stop.
18 Wheels of Love
February 22nd, 2010
11:05 am
JayHey Kid
“A Heyyyyyyyyyy bomb, from Heyyyyyyward.”
vomit
18 Wheels of Love
February 22nd, 2010
11:07 am
As much cereal as that guy eats we should call him Captain Crunch. I stole that from @fauxfrankwren
Jay212033
February 22nd, 2010
11:08 am
DAP
Don’t need the video I’ve seen him play in person several times before he gained all this new muscle.
DOB
Ha, Ha Funny! All you had to say is they have not actually began hitting yet.
NCmike
February 22nd, 2010
11:08 am
Thanks for the performance review DOB. Can you tell us how his new Nikes are performing? How about his batting gloves?
NCmike
February 22nd, 2010
11:08 am
18 wheels…. nice.
NCmike
February 22nd, 2010
11:09 am
Hammerin’ Heyward? Um, no….
18 Wheels of Love
February 22nd, 2010
11:10 am
Seriously 6′6″ in cleats and 245?? Wow. And i liked the ‘grown man strength’ quote. I’ve heard Dave WIndfield use that expression before. Pretty fitting too. I like the Derek Lee comparison but Heyward is going to dwarf him soon.
N8
February 22nd, 2010
11:10 am
“I don’t know why we would put Escobar back up top. He’s starting to really develop as a run producer. IMO I’d leave him right there in the 6 hole were he can do the most damage.” P’Cola
To me it’s a wash, and relative to what the 25 man roster consists of when discussing who should lead off for the Braves.
I’ve long been an advocate of Escobar in the leadoff spot. But I’m OK with McLouth being there. That was the one aspect of Damon that would have been nice. Having him bat leadoff, that is. I think ultimately, Diaz/Melky will produce the same raw numbers as Damon would at Turner Field. But his experience being a catalyst for a lineup would have been nice (but not at 8 million bucks).
You say Escobar is a good run producer, which he is (or at least growing into one). But that’s all relative to the guys ahead of him. It begs the age old question. Who’s more important? The guys knocking in the runs, or the guys getting on base enough for others to knock them in?
To me, Escobar’s value might be greater at the top of the order. A guy like Diaz or McLouth might hit more HR than Escobar and with guys on base ahead of them, could probably produce as many runs as Escobar could.
I’m of the belief that Esccobar is about to take off. So I’m fine with him down in the order. A deep batting order is a good thing. But look at Rafael Soriano in his prime. Dude could have had 130 RBI if the Nats or Cubs would have batted him 3rd or 4th. But he was those teams’ best option for leadoff as well to get things rolling.
Sure, McLouth is a better base stealer. But so what? It’s only 20 or so SB’s. With Escobar’s ability to hit doubles, he presumably wouldn’t have to steal as much and Bobby doesn’t like to run that much anyhow, so the SB possiblity is a non-factor to me.
I think my biggest reason for NOT wanting Escobar at the top of the order is him batting RH. Especially if Prado is the #2 hitter. I don’t want to “waste” two of the RH bats in the lineup at the top and than other than Glaus (and Diaz when he plays), have the meat of the rest of the order be LH. Nice to have Escobar around the 6 hole, breaking up those LH bats.
But given a couple more big boppers in the lineup, I think Escobar could easily be one of the better leadoff hitters in the game. I just think the way the lineup is currently constructed and given the tools Bobby has to work with, McLouth makes the most sense.
I also agree that Escobar would need to drastically improve his overall baserunning ability to flourish there (at the top).
An intriguing possiblity, is to have Melky and Diaz leadoff and utilyze McLouth’s power down in the order. I think Diaz could do it. Just not sure how excited I’d be seeing Melky at the top. I like continuity in the order. So the safe bet is to have McLouth leadoff and the Melky/Diaz platoon bat 8th, leaving Heyward in the 7 hole.
McLouth
Prado
Chipper
Glaus
McCann
Escobar
Heyward
Diaz/Melky
Pitcher
That leaves a very nice, balanced batting order with 15+ HR potential at every spot. If healthy, that lineup would surely produce enough runs to take advantage of the pitching that the Braves have. Philly or Yankee like in production? Nope. But good enough from my angle.
18 Wheels of Love
February 22nd, 2010
11:12 am
The only thing about ripped guys like that is the oblique strains that come from having nothing but muscles. Hmmmm…how did Hampton keep getting them?
Buzz Killington
February 22nd, 2010
11:12 am
“So does anyone know… Does Heyward have a nickname? He screams of someone that needs a nickname… ”
Until he actually steps on a big league field and produces, how about just unproven rookie?
HuffBraves
February 22nd, 2010
11:13 am
Think we can check off “DOB responds sarcastically to a blogger” on our Spring Training Bingo cards…
18 Wheels of Love
February 22nd, 2010
11:13 am
Heyward should come out to ‘Brick House’.
Home of the Braves
February 22nd, 2010
11:15 am
We don’t need to worry about the nickname thing. Bobby’ll give him one.
DAP
February 22nd, 2010
11:17 am
N8, my opinion is that since a big part of escobar’s skill set is making contact and hitting for average, #2 is a good spot for him.
obviously, the high OBP wouldnt kill us at leadoff, but there are better spots for him, i think.
Chopshop
February 22nd, 2010
11:18 am
Anyone wonder what Bobby’s nickname for Heyward is going to be ? Jay ? Heyie ? I can’t think of a good one.
Jay212033
February 22nd, 2010
11:20 am
Escobar grounds into too many DPs to hit in the 2 hole.
bravesgirlnc
February 22nd, 2010
11:21 am
All this Jason Heyward talk is getting me so excited for this season. It will be nice to finally have a really, really good hitting prospect. It has been a while.
P'cola Brave
February 22nd, 2010
11:22 am
N8
I had posted something a few weeks back about Diaz/Melky combining to hit leadoff and if you look at there numbers they could be a good option. It is a relatively small sample size and the fact that neither will be in consistently leads me to believe this won’t happen.
I just now went and looked up Escobar stats and his leadoff numbers are shocking:
Leading off game
.411 /.427 /.616 /1.043
Batting leadoff
.309 .371 .428 .799
This is a 77 gm sample.
Tommy T
February 22nd, 2010
11:22 am
How ’bout “Ironhorse” for Jason Heyward. Since the Dude is obviously a horse. Also, a bit of a play off of Craig “Ironhead” Heyward.
CB
February 22nd, 2010
11:24 am
I have a novel idea! Let’s call him Jason!
Daybed Wagmoe
February 22nd, 2010
11:25 am
How ’bout “The Swing”?
Mitchie-san
February 22nd, 2010
11:25 am
Maybe Chris Berman will come up with a clever nickname, then again….probably not.
P'cola Brave
February 22nd, 2010
11:26 am
Just a question to see what people think.
If you move Escobar to leadoff would you bat Mclouth 2nd to keep from using two of you RH bats in the top two spots. This would also keep your speed at the top. This would allow Prado to move back into the six hole while getting a high OBP guy in Escobar at the leadoff. Thoughts?
DAP
February 22nd, 2010
11:26 am
We don’t need to worry about the nickname thing. Bobby’ll give him one.
“c’mon, kid!”
NCmike
February 22nd, 2010
11:26 am
“Anyone wonder what Bobby’s nickname for Heyward is going to be ? Jay ? Heyie ? I can’t think of a good one.”
Jakie? Haykie?
bravofan
February 22nd, 2010
11:26 am
where is everybody? having all these different blogs is confusing
bravofan
February 22nd, 2010
11:27 am
p cola brave I like it
Bayou Brave
February 22nd, 2010
11:27 am
I would imagine that Bobby would give out the nickname.
bravofan
February 22nd, 2010
11:29 am
I cant believe the yanks signed chan ho park they like players like that like ching ming wang
O.J.
February 22nd, 2010
11:29 am
How bout ‘Wardy’
P'cola Brave
February 22nd, 2010
11:29 am
You wouldnt have to worry bout Nate hitting into double plays, the guy only has about 25-30 his whold career.
Escobar
Mclouth
Jones
Glaus
McCann
Prado
Heyward
Diaz/Melky
Pitcher
Pete
February 22nd, 2010
11:31 am
DOB, I’m coming to spring training in a few weeks. Any BBQ and breakfast suggestions? Staying not too far from Dark Star. Thanks!
NCmike
February 22nd, 2010
11:31 am
btw, we still have 4 spots left for the bloggage yahoo fantasy baseball league (version 3.0). Feel free to sign up if you’d like:
http://baseball.fantasysports.yahoo.com/b1/register/joinprivateleague_league_select?.scrumb=
League ID#: 262382
Password: chipper
Geoff
February 22nd, 2010
11:32 am
Hey DOB: Any word on whether Dale Murphy (Murf) will be in camp this year as a guest instructor? He was at last yrs camp yes? I think Murf can be a great help to Heyward, particularly on outfield positioning.
bravofan
February 22nd, 2010
11:33 am
nc mike: is it free?
TommyP
February 22nd, 2010
11:33 am
I would think that nobody in our clubhouse would fit the bill of the #2 slot better than Prado. Classic #2 hitter.
We don’t have an obvious choice for leadoff and since Bobby doesn’t send many runners anymore (in terms of pure steals), you have to look for something different.
If I don’t have a prototypical leadoff guy, I want a guy that will get on base. If possible, I’d like a guy that sees a lot of pitches to start the game so he can see what the pitcher has, what he’s throwing, etc.
Looking at Matt Diaz’s splits, he still rakes when he has 1 strike on him. That’s the guy I’d like to see at the top of the order. A guy that will wait to look at a strike but can still hit despite not being ahead in the count.
Plus, if Matty D. is our leadoff hitter, it makes the trickle-down effect on our lineup that much deeper.
Jonas
February 22nd, 2010
11:34 am
DOB….How about THE MIlK MAN..It’s he there…No mention of Melky and not Introduce by The Braves Media in the Off season….I know he is not the Big Star signed but he was with the Yankee and contribute to there Championship.
NCmike
February 22nd, 2010
11:35 am
“nc mike: is it free?”
Yes, it’s totally free. Just need a yahoo id.
Jonas
February 22nd, 2010
11:35 am
NOT RESPECT FOR THE MILK MAN
bravofan
February 22nd, 2010
11:35 am
come play streak for the cash on espn the group is called Atlanta Braves
NEW CARS
February 22nd, 2010
11:36 am
I like Hey Hey, sort of like the kid at Tech from my hometown, BeyBey….Hope that’s not a jinx as BeyBey just broke his foot….I have a hard time, even though he’s just 20, referred to Mr. Heyward as Kid in any form…It’s just what you call a 6-foot-6, 245-pound man
NCmike
February 22nd, 2010
11:36 am
Dale Murphy, my favorite Brave of all-time. I still wear #3 in all my softball and basketball leagues. Still can’t believe he may never make it into the Hall of Fame.
O.J.
February 22nd, 2010
11:37 am
Hey DOB, quick question, maybe you know or maybe its been answered and I didnt see it, but, did Glaus work with anyone over the winter to get acclimated at 1st base? Or is he going to try to figure it out during spring training? Please say its the first scenario as I would hate for him to try to learn a new position in only a few weeks.
Mitchie-san
February 22nd, 2010
11:39 am
With all the A-rods, K-Rods and V-Marts, I think J-Hey will stick.
Skeezix
February 22nd, 2010
11:39 am
Love the lyrics!
Mitchie-san
February 22nd, 2010
11:40 am
What about The H Bomb?
DAP
February 22nd, 2010
11:40 am
jay Escobar grounds into too many DPs to hit in the 2 hole.
i disagree with this. ground into alot of double plays is a result of hardly ever striking out, and having lots of runners on.
albert pujols hits into a ton of DPs (more than yunel last season) because of this, but it isnt enough to take away from his value offensively.
escobar is the same to me. good hitting the other way, lots of contact, very high OBP, makes a good #2 hitter. helps get the bases full, advancing runners, ect. it outweighs his GIDP tendencies.
(by the way, martin prado is a very similar hitter. good average, OBP, doesnt K hardly at all, and hits into a ton a DPs.)
NCmike
February 22nd, 2010
11:40 am
Heyward = Minotaur
Half man / Half bull
Andy K.
February 22nd, 2010
11:42 am
O.J. I know he played first base for two weeks when with the Cardinals, so he probably had some instruction last year.
NEW CARS
February 22nd, 2010
11:42 am
It’s just NOT what you call a 6-foot-6 245 pound man
bravofan
February 22nd, 2010
11:45 am
I would like to play nc mike but I’am at school now and cannot access yahoo becuase it is blocked
Geoff
February 22nd, 2010
11:46 am
I echo the word of NCMike on Murf! Unfortunately, I’ve resigned myself to Murf not getting into the Hall. None the less, he can be of tremendous value to the Braves future as well.
thinbreakness
February 22nd, 2010
11:48 am
N8 @ 11:10 – That’s assuming you are always facing a RHander. Our best leadoff option is Schafer, but he hasn’t proven he can play in the Majors. I think he can. What if Schafer hits .330 with a .415 OBP this Spring, what would N8 do?
Big Chubby
February 22nd, 2010
11:48 am
More on the JaHey Kid’s physique please! Broad shoulders, narrow waist ………………………… oh myyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy I’m almost there!
Macon Braves (RIP)
February 22nd, 2010
11:49 am
I wouldn’t mind Matty D in the leadoff role and have Yunel and McLouth both down in the order as run producers. My main objection to having Yunel in the leadoff is his HORRIBLE baserunning. The guy really has to work on that part of his game.
P'cola Brave
February 22nd, 2010
11:49 am
DAP
Prado had his share of DP last season no doubt (17) but Escobar tied the franchise record with 24 in ‘08. He hits a ton of grounders and line drives. I dont like him hitting two at all.
Crazy Trades McGee
February 22nd, 2010
11:50 am
The braves had to trade Rafael Soriano’s beard clippings to the Dominican Republic for the rights to watch Edward Salcedo’s Youtube video.
Heyward’s nickname should be “Prime” (Since Calvin Johnson is Megatron, I went with another transformer name, although I think “Optimus Prime” would be too long)
I haven’t posted in Months and this is what I come back with…
Don
February 22nd, 2010
11:50 am
Other than the pitching, what is the basis for any optimism. And even for the pitching, the loss of Vazquez is a huge blow; and if the recent past is an indicator, it is almost certain that at least one of the projected starters will either be injured or be ineffective. With all the optimism being expressed, one would not guess that in reality we have only two, perhaps three players who have proven over a full season that they can give a major league quality performance (catcher, SS, and perhaps 2nd base – altthough he has not yet shown it for a full season. We do not have a single established major league quality outfielder. At third we have a part time, poor defensive player whose hitting apparently is also now in decline. At first we have a 3rd baseman whose hitting has been in decline who is coming off serious injury. And worst of all, we have a manager who does not understand or at least implement even the most simple and basic fundamentals and procedures for run production.
koolmap
February 22nd, 2010
11:50 am
DOB is jurrjins still on track to start throwing tomorrow or wednesday?? you havent said much about him.
Smitty
February 22nd, 2010
11:50 am
NC MIKE: I’m in the same boat as bravofan I’ll play but I’m at school and yahoo is blocked I’ll sign up as soon as I get home
Macon Braves (RIP)
February 22nd, 2010
11:51 am
And before anyone points out Matty D’s bad baserunning in the game that pretty much eliminated the Braves last year, I know he isn’t the greatest baserunner, but Yunel is one of the worst baserunners I’ve seen (and yes, I’ve seen Lonnie Smith)….
P'cola Brave
February 22nd, 2010
11:52 am
Macon
I agree Escobar doesn’t have the best baserunning. Given that we don’t straight steal often, I could live with Escobar baserunning flops at the top. All he’ll have to worry about is getting from 1st to third w/out screwing up.
bigchiefrg
February 22nd, 2010
11:52 am
I was gonna go with Wardy as what 6 will call heyward, but now I am thinking he will just yell, “Come on Kid”
bravofan
February 22nd, 2010
11:52 am
smitty dumb restrictions on school computers
NCmike
February 22nd, 2010
11:52 am
bravofan and smitty, would love to have you two join. Check-in when you’re home, there should still be spots available.
bigchiefrg
February 22nd, 2010
11:52 am
I like the ‘JayHey’ Kid personally
bravofan
February 22nd, 2010
11:53 am
anybody watch the terrible end to the Hawks game last night the Hawks had to score a three and who other than Josh Smith throws it up there when he has not hit a three all year
bravofan
February 22nd, 2010
11:53 am
smitty is that you the streak for the cash?
DAP
February 22nd, 2010
11:54 am
p’cola You wouldnt have to worry bout Nate hitting into double plays, the guy only has about 25-30 his whold career.
partly because he Ks so much. i think mclouth is a pretty bad option for #2. in my way of thinking, #2 is always a high contact guy.
CB
February 22nd, 2010
11:55 am
Pete,DOB had recommended Fat Boys BBQ before,1606 W.Vine St. in Kissimmee.
P'cola Brave
February 22nd, 2010
11:56 am
Just read that Kahlil Greene is not joining the Rangers at ST. Wonder why. Good utility infielder for cheap.
18 Wheels of Love
February 22nd, 2010
11:57 am
Heyward nickname suggestion
The Hybrid
DAP
February 22nd, 2010
11:59 am
p’cola Prado had his share of DP last season no doubt (17) but Escobar tied the franchise record with 24 in ‘08. He hits a ton of grounders and line drives. I dont like him hitting two at all.
i could end up being wrong, but if you dont like yunel hitting 2nd because he hits into alot of double plays, then i dont think you will like prado there either. give him another 100 PA or so (playing a full year batting 2nd) and he will hit into 20-something DPs.
CB
February 22nd, 2010
11:59 am
P’cola, Greene is being treated for anxiety again.
N8
February 22nd, 2010
12:02 pm
thinbreakness, I really think that the Braves outfield opening day 2011 will be McLouth in LF, Schafer in CF and Heyward in RF.
That’s a lot of LH bats. Escpecially when you consider McCann and possibly Freeman as well. So, perhaps a trade is in order after this season. Hard to say.
Me personally, if Schafer hits .330 in ST? I’d still send him to AAA for at least a month or two. I don’t doubt his ability to play, just his lack of AB’s the past couple of years.
Obviously, they saw enough of his ability for him to win the job last spring. IMO, not much has changed, other than McLouth being here. But I don’t doubt for a second that they view him as a more long-term solution in the OF than Melky/Diaz. Just not sure he can do enough to win a job on opening day this year. No way he makes the club if he’s not starting. I suppose, they could trade Melky and have him platoon with Diaz, or at the very least, let Diaz start for either Schafer, Diaz or Heyward against the really tough lefties.
But no way, imo, that Schafer makes the team and sits on the bench. Not yet. Maybe they do that in June after he compiles some AB’s. Also, I doubt that anytime in 2010 Schafer (if he’s up) bats leadoff. I’d like to see them put Schafer at AAA and bat him leadoff down there. Groom him for that position if you will.
But I still like Schafer a lot.
DAVBRAVES
February 22nd, 2010
12:03 pm
Lowe will be the best pitcher on this team this year.
bravofan
February 22nd, 2010
12:04 pm
Hank Blalock, Gary Sheffield, and Geoff Jenkins are all top free agents still on the market
bravofan
February 22nd, 2010
12:05 pm
http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb follow the link and look at the second pic it is under the second heading called starting line up
P'cola Brave
February 22nd, 2010
12:05 pm
DAP
You may be right. Because I’m sure if he hits into a crap load of DP I’m going to be cursing. I just hate having a high chance of a DP in your two hole because its such a rally killer. Its deflating to watch your leadoff get on then your #2 roll into a DP before the heart of the order gets there.
DAVBRAVES
February 22nd, 2010
12:06 pm
LOWE 18-10, jj 15-6, HUDSON 15-9, HANSON 13-5, KK 10-11
DAVBRAVES
February 22nd, 2010
12:07 pm
What do you guys think.
N8
February 22nd, 2010
12:07 pm
I’ll say this again as well, and I’m sure I’ll get blasted for it. If Chipper’s power numbers don’t rise again, at this stage of his career, he just might be the best option we have in the #2 hole. Good bat control for hit and runs, etc…
But in order for that to happen, somebody else would have to be suited for the 3 hole.
Lets not forget that Chipper was dumped right into the 3-hole from day one. While Chipper would have to continue last year’s trend and Heyward would have to be lights out from the get go in order for Bobby to make such a move, it may be that by year’s end, Heyward is the ideal #3 hitter (especially if Glaus is healthy and can protect him).
Just don’t see Bobby doing it in his last year. That seems like a move that the next manager might do to start 2011. Not sure how Chipper would handle that. But at some point he’s not going to be the best option at #3 anymore, and will have to step aside gracefully. Doesn’t mean he can’t still be an asset to the lineup. Just not sure that if he doesn’t return to his old self, that that’s where he belongs anymore.
But I want to see what Chipper can do with Glaus behind him. That just may change a whole lot of things for Chipper, provided Glaus is healthy and can hit.
P'cola Brave
February 22nd, 2010
12:08 pm
N8 and thick
Come 2011 if it looks like Schafer and Freeman are ready and Chipper doesn’t retire I think you have to look into moving Mclouth and pursuing Werth. If you promote both schafer and freeman you are once again in a heavy LH lineup. Moving Mclouth and his money and trying to get a RH power bat in werth is the only way to go in my opinion. I can’t think of another RH option for next year.
bravofan
February 22nd, 2010
12:10 pm
davbraves: I hope he is!!!!!!
monty
February 22nd, 2010
12:10 pm
“It’s unfortunate that Heyward will take Blanco’s spot.”
Huh?
Bayou Brave
February 22nd, 2010
12:11 pm
Hoss 2.0
The Burly Icon
Mad Mastiff
The Crime Wolfhound
I Am Legend
Jason, The Argonaut
The McDonough Mauler
DAVBRAVES
February 22nd, 2010
12:13 pm
GO BRAVES
cabravesfan
February 22nd, 2010
12:13 pm
N8-
Saw your earlier comment about Offspring…I’ve been a fan for a long time- got to hear them on the radio a bit before they were well known and really liked them (they are from just south of Los Angeles)- but you are right that their new stuff is great
DAVBRAVES
February 22nd, 2010
12:13 pm
DYE DYE DYE DYE DYE DYE DYE DYE
DAVBRAVES
February 22nd, 2010
12:14 pm
I hope the braves atleast look at dye
thinbreakness
February 22nd, 2010
12:14 pm
N8
P’Cola
Makes sense, Do either of you value the ability of the #8 hitter to reach base with two outs so the pitcher does not lead off the next inning?
Vulcan
February 22nd, 2010
12:17 pm
Call Heyward “The V” in honor of DOB’s description of his back.
When he comes to the plate, everyone can raise their hands over their heads in a Vulcan V salute, and then swoop their hands down while everyone buzzes VvvvvvvvvvvVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVV with their mouths as the pitch approaches the plate, just like they do when someone is shooting free throws on the road at a place like Cameron.
Too much? Would kind of getting annoying doing that for each of the 1400 pitches he’ll see at the Ted this season? Or just stupid in general?
thinbreakness
February 22nd, 2010
12:20 pm
monty-
6 outfielders currently on the 40 player: Blanco, Schafer, Diaz, Cabrera, McLouth, Hinske is listed in this category. I guessed Blanco would be taken off if Heyward is added, but it could be a pitcher.
NEW CARS
February 22nd, 2010
12:25 pm
How about Jayhawk for Mr. Heyward…Bear with me as I explain this….As an ode to DOB, we take the top song from the 1970’s band Kansas (in honor or DOB, even if they were from Boston, I believe) and change it into Carry On My Heyward Son. That could be his intro song and as KU are the Jayhawks, ergo….Please no throwing of tomatoes or cantaloupes please
thinbreakness
February 22nd, 2010
12:25 pm
monty-
if the Braves are reluctant to drop a pitcher, the only 2 candidates left would be Conrad or Diory. If Thurston makes the team, Ive got a feeling Conrad goes because Diory is the better prospect. So, that leaves Blanco’s spot, if the Braves are reluctant to drop a pitcher.
bigchiefrg
February 22nd, 2010
12:27 pm
So I agree with N8 on the Chipper thing. My biggest problem with what I have been hearing is if Glaus can still perform (this part isnt necessarily to you N8). Look at his numbers. If he is healthy, he is gonna perform. He has given no reason to think otherwise. The question is, can he stay healthy?
Jonas
February 22nd, 2010
12:28 pm
AJC PIC for Today…Pic # 2 is wrong, It BLanco not Melky.
Andrew in PA
February 22nd, 2010
12:29 pm
DOB,just to let you know they messed up another photo tag. They say Melky when it looks like Blanco. Also in those photos Heyward sure looks like hes confident and that he belongs there. Glaus on the other hand looks like a grumpy old man.
Gamec0ckBrave
February 22nd, 2010
12:30 pm
DOB, Goin to see some of my hometown favorites from Charlottesville, Sons of Bill open for the super bad-ass DBT in Charlotte at the Neighborhood Theatre on Thursday. It will be my first DBT concert, I am stoked!
David O'Brien
February 22nd, 2010
12:31 pm
I asked Cox about Kimbrel and he said he threw real well today, more praise than the last time I asked. He also specifically cited Chavez again. Everyone from Wagner and Dave Ross to Moylan and Cox has been impressed by Chavez.
N8
February 22nd, 2010
12:31 pm
“Do either of you value the ability of the #8 hitter to reach base with two outs so the pitcher does not lead off the next inning?”
Absolutely. But what I value more is the pitcher’s ability to help them selves out and move runners along so the leadoff and #2 hitters have a chance to knock in runs.
Maybe we were spoiled for a decade with 3 of the best bunting pitchers in MLB history. But it just seems to me that in the past couple of years, the pitchers just aren’t that good at it anymore. Which kills potential rallies.
Isenberg
February 22nd, 2010
12:32 pm
I was just about to post that Melky Cabrera must have had some extensive plastic surgery during the offseason to look just like Gregor Blanco. Nice observation, Andrew in PA!
Jonas
February 22nd, 2010
12:33 pm
Some one forgot to tell Glaus that Bobby don’t like the Sun Glasses in front top of the ‘A” hat.(See Pic)AJC Front Page
Couch Tater
February 22nd, 2010
12:33 pm
I don’t have a nickname for Jason, but if he’s stalking Turner Field on Friday, August 13th against the Dodgers, everyone needs to wear a hockey mask.
David O'Brien
February 22nd, 2010
12:33 pm
Jonas: No, that’s Melky. They have the exact same beard, same hair, and really similar faces. But it’s Melky, not Blanco.
Smitty
February 22nd, 2010
12:34 pm
Bravofan: yeh thats me on Streak for the cash
Jonas
February 22nd, 2010
12:35 pm
Sorry DOB…but that it’s Blanco not Melky…
Jonas
February 22nd, 2010
12:36 pm
Or like isenberg said..he got an extensive Plastic Surgery….
dogsbrekky
February 22nd, 2010
12:37 pm
still playing my Steve Earle remastered Coperhead Road, great stuff
Heyward looks like a GIANT of the Dave Winfield mould but maybe stronger already
.
gosh this is going to be an exciting time for us… my cousin at the Yanks says JayHey is as impressive as Longoria was as a kid and possibly the best prospect since Chipper… they think he is THAT great
“I have seen the future of baseball and it is wearing a Braves jersey”
dogsbrekky
February 22nd, 2010
12:39 pm
Dobi and Jonas – I would have bet my life it was Blanco as well in that pic
DAP
February 22nd, 2010
12:40 pm
DOBNo, that’s Melky. They have the exact same beard, same hair, and really similar faces. But it’s Melky, not Blanco.
if thats melky, then they are identical twins.
N8
February 22nd, 2010
12:40 pm
P’cola, totally agree about pursuing a big RH bat if Schafer and Freeman are both promoted. But in order to do that, Chipper would have to retire. Can’t really pursue anybody else with that money on the books.
Unless one of the kids (Minor or Medlen?) steps up and stakes claim to a rotation spot. In which case if KK produces well, his 6-7 million dollar salary could easily be moved. Let’s not forget that if Lowe Rebounds, getting somebody to take his two remaining years should be easier than getting a team to take on three years of him.
Too early to predict what may or may happen next off-season. Need to see the 2010 results before not only speculating on what will be done, but what will NEED to be done.
I suppose one interesting possibility, is if Glaus rebounds and stays healthy and Chipper were to retire, Glaus could be re-signed and moved back across the diamond to 3B?
I just think that if Chipper has a decent year, he’ll not only stick around, but the Braves will want him to stick around. Losing both Bobby and Chipper in the same off-season could be a PR nightmare.
Another possiblity (if Chipper retires), is if Prado develops into a 20-25 HR guy, he could move to 3B and the Braves could look for a 2B.
Here’s the thing about the LH heavy lineup. If Heyward, McCann and Schafer all show an ability to hit LHP, I’m not that worried about it.
Just like last year when nobody on the blog wanted Raul Ibanez or Abreu because they were left handed, my argument has been and will continue to be that I want good hitters. Give me an unbalanced lineup of 7 or 8 good hitters with good approaches against either LH or RH pitching over a balanced lineup of mediocre talent.
If you can hit, you can hit.
thinbreakness
February 22nd, 2010
12:42 pm
dogs-
You probably know this, Winfield received scholarship offers in both Footbal(American) and Basketball. As good an athlete as Neon Dieon and Bo Jackson.
koolmap
February 22nd, 2010
12:42 pm
Dob whats going on with jurrjins will he throw soon
thinbreakness
February 22nd, 2010
12:46 pm
N8-
Glad you pointed that out – Glauss has won a Gold Glove at 3rd. But I’m with you, will see how much money the Org has after we win the WS.
thinbreakness
February 22nd, 2010
12:47 pm
Yes all you haters and doubters – The Braves will win the World Series this year.
Frank Robinson (Rockmart)
February 22nd, 2010
12:51 pm
Weird, I thought the same thing about that Melky picture. Has he lost weight?
Fischerking04
February 22nd, 2010
12:51 pm
That’s Blanco in the picture. The two may resemble each other but Blanco is lighter and their noses are different.
dpelfrey
February 22nd, 2010
12:51 pm
“DAVBRAVES…DYE DYE DYE DYE DYE DYE DYE DYE”
NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO
And I told you guys before Chavez would be a big surprise…93-94 mph fastball with good movement and a bevy of decent off-speed pitches. I saw one video on mlb.com where he struck out Mike Cameron with a splitter that looked downright nasty. His slider looks like it has some sharp late break on it too.
Hillbilly
February 22nd, 2010
12:53 pm
Geezes, some of these posts look like they came straight out of the Spirit World. I’m going to go take a drug test now after reading Vulcan’s 12:17.
Hillbilly
February 22nd, 2010
12:53 pm
Just kidding Vulcan. It was interesting, though to say the least.
Nick
February 22nd, 2010
12:53 pm
That is Blanco, not Melky.
thinbreakness
February 22nd, 2010
12:55 pm
dpelfrey-
I too was in this camp. The guy throws 96. Getting a 25 yo with 73 ML appearances his rookie year was a very good compensation pick for the fruit cake.
RHR
February 22nd, 2010
12:59 pm
Hillbilly – yeah I got a contact high after reading that one.
thinbreakness
February 22nd, 2010
1:01 pm
monty-
Looked at the 40 player again and didn’t see Scott Proctor. If this guy is healthy, veteran who once hit 100mph on the radar and still throws in the mid to upper 90s is added, the spots on the 40 player are diminishing.
sidslidkid
February 22nd, 2010
1:03 pm
DOB, Have you cornered Hank yet? I want to hear some quotes from the greatest player ever about the most hyped player ever.
MZ
February 22nd, 2010
1:05 pm
yeah, the photo in question depicts Gregor taking practice swings
O.J.
February 22nd, 2010
1:06 pm
I dont see how the heck that picture is of Melky Cabrera. I mean, I am looking at a pic of Melky and that pic side by side and they look nothing alike.
Smitty
February 22nd, 2010
1:08 pm
How about we settle this…DOB get a picture of both Melky and Blanco
Macon Braves (RIP)
February 22nd, 2010
1:08 pm
I agree Escobar doesn’t have the best baserunning. Given that we don’t straight steal often, I could live with Escobar baserunning flops at the top. All he’ll have to worry about is getting from 1st to third w/out screwing up.
Unfortunately, getting from first to third without any screwups has been a problem for him….
Jonas
February 22nd, 2010
1:09 pm
O.J. …Right…Melky is from RD and Blanco from venezuela….two different country…That Pic is Blanco….The Guys from AJC is Wrong.
Melky eyes are more Asian type.
The Truth about the Offspring
February 22nd, 2010
1:09 pm
Offspring is garbage. If it weren’t for Nickelback and Trixter Offspring might be the worst band of all time. It’s like they made Offspring in a machine and said, “Hey, this will sell records”!
Don’t sell yourself short listening to Offspring and his silly perm when there’s really good, REAL music available.
P'cola Brave
February 22nd, 2010
1:09 pm
If I’m looking at the right picture it looks like Melky not Blanco.
RHR
February 22nd, 2010
1:11 pm
Hmmm….have Melky and Greg White ever been seen in a room at the same time?
I think its Blanco too. I’d put a dollar on it.
TnBrian
February 22nd, 2010
1:11 pm
That really does look like Blanco, I’ll be shocked if it ain’t.
thinbreakness
February 22nd, 2010
1:11 pm
N8-
I too have come around that Schafer begins the year at Gwinnett. If he has a tremendous Spring, he starts at Gwinnett and is available in case of injury. This is really the logical decision in the long haul of 162 games. But what a great option which is why I think Gregor may be on the bubble.
P'cola Brave
February 22nd, 2010
1:13 pm
thin
I think Gregor’s left out if Heyward makes it. I’m going to call Diaz the starter leaving Melky, Hinske, Ross, Infante on the bench. The last spot will more than likely go to Diory, Conrad, or Thurston.
tiger297
February 22nd, 2010
1:14 pm
RHR puts up a dollar and Brekky put up his life…wonder which is worth more
RHR
February 22nd, 2010
1:14 pm
In this economy? Psh.
Macon Braves (RIP)
February 22nd, 2010
1:14 pm
I just checked out the picture in question. If that is Melky, then he and Blanco are identical twins. That sure looks like Blanco to me as well.
Jonas
February 22nd, 2010
1:15 pm
The AJC has to take a Pic of both,side by side….
Ron in Mobile
February 22nd, 2010
1:15 pm
I know that if Wagner stays healthy he is really going to help us win some games this year. Since we signed him i have truly been trying hard to like him and get used to rooting for him.
That being said…am i totally alone in saying that the whole cowboy thing with him is not doing anything to help me with this transition?
I guess i just need him to to go out and get his first tough save and ill be ok. DOB i mean i know you cant really speak your opinion on this but does it a least fit him?
RHR
February 22nd, 2010
1:16 pm
P’cola this is the one –
http://projects.ajc.com/gallery/view/sports/braves/braves-training-022210/2.html
And just for fun…here’s Blanco from profile (ish) –
http://www.fanaticosdelaguairabbc.com/cms/fotos_noticias/1192411902phpQTuydm.jpg
and Melky from profile (ish) –
http://www1.pictures.gi.zimbio.com/Texas+Rangers+v+New+York+Yankees+-AE0nlJ03cfl.jpg
jztwothree
February 22nd, 2010
1:17 pm
OMG, biggest story of spring training: Blancogate!
tiger297
February 22nd, 2010
1:17 pm
I wonder if DOB is sitting at dark star enjoying the weather laughing at the number of hits related to the is it melky or blanco topic. Maybe he can post a poll to see what everyone thinks?
thinbreakness
February 22nd, 2010
1:17 pm
P’Cola-
I really like the Hinske pickup. I think he and Infante will end up making big contributions this year.
Elon Brave
February 22nd, 2010
1:20 pm
Hey y’all, does anyone know if all Braves games are covered by MLBtv or if there are holes in coverage?
dpelfrey
February 22nd, 2010
1:20 pm
Yeah, I think it’s Blanco as well.
David O'Brien
February 22nd, 2010
1:21 pm
I asked Hank Aaron about being the “People’s Home Run Champion,” if he liked that idea.
“Regardless of what happens, I’m not going to hit another home run,” he said, laughing. “That’s all I’m going to hit. Not in this world. I may do it somewhere else, but right now that’s the end of my [home run hitting].
“You know, you have people like — are you from Japan? [to a Japanese reporter] – from her hometown, like Mr. Oh, Sadaharu Oh, who has 800 home runs. He did it right. He was great.
“Sometimes you have to remember that you don’t have to cheat in order to do something right. You can be successful in baseball, football, basketball, whatever you want to be. You just have to learn to do it right.”
sidslidkid
February 22nd, 2010
1:22 pm
Elon Brave, yes they are all covered. They offer 2 packages. If you get the more expensive one you can pick from home or away broadcast. The cheaper package is usually just the home broadcast.
dpelfrey
February 22nd, 2010
1:23 pm
Elon Brave,
Where do you live? In you’re in the Braves home market (which includes Georgia and surrounding states) then I believe the Braves games on MLBtv are subject to blackout rules. If you go to mlb.com there should be a place to put in your zip code to check on blackouts.
thinbreakness
February 22nd, 2010
1:24 pm
Hank did it right – “The Brave Way” – tell Hank we love him, he’s not the peoples HR King, he is the HR King.
sidslidkid
February 22nd, 2010
1:25 pm
I wonder if Hank or the Braves have hired a PR person to coach him on these answers. They always seem so perfect. He can’t be that perfect on the spot all the time… can he???
DAP
February 22nd, 2010
1:25 pm
haha, “blancogate!”
Ozzie
February 22nd, 2010
1:27 pm
Isn’t the picture in day two of camp a picture of Gregor Blanco but a caption referring to Melky in today’s AJC.com?
It is or they are twins.
Jonas
February 22nd, 2010
1:28 pm
Hank you are The best in My book…We love you…”THE KING”
northbeach Scott
February 22nd, 2010
1:28 pm
Blanco has a spot, in Gwinnett in LF, flanking Schafer in CF.
Blanco has demonstrated that he is not an MLB hitter and is a below average fielder. Think of Gregor as the reserve, reserve OF for 2010. Like Brian Barton or Reid Gorecki were for the Braves in 2009.
If he is dropped from the 40-man roster, so be it. These AAAA-type OF can be had for little during ST or during the season.
thinbreakness
February 22nd, 2010
1:30 pm
In my little Baseball head – McGwire, Sosa, Bonds, Clemons don’t even exist.
Half-A-Glass
February 22nd, 2010
1:35 pm
Sorry folks…..that picture is of Gregor Blanco….don’t care what anyone says!
Arkansas Transplant
February 22nd, 2010
1:35 pm
DOB,
What does the Braves see Ortegano as? Reliever or starter? How has Lee Hyde looked so far?
Elon Brave
February 22nd, 2010
1:37 pm
I live in Columbia, SC, but I don’t have cable.
Andrew in PA
February 22nd, 2010
1:39 pm
its blanco
Jeff R
February 22nd, 2010
1:39 pm
Great updates, DOB…
As to the strong arms in the pen, wonderful. But who are the pitchers and who are throwers? Big difference.
6-4-3
February 22nd, 2010
1:39 pm
The caption to that Blanco picture starts off with “Got Melky?”. Apparently the AJC doesn’t.
Andrew in PA
February 22nd, 2010
1:40 pm
Wow Bowman has a great piece up on Heyward right now,im excited.
http://markbowman.mlblogs.com/
John Woo
February 22nd, 2010
1:41 pm
THIS JUST IN: Gregor Blanco and Melky Cabrera are replacing John Travolta and Nicholas Cage in the sequel to Face/Off
thinbreakness
February 22nd, 2010
1:41 pm
Fillies play Boston 3 times and the Yankees 3 times in interleague while the only AL East team we play is Tampa Bay. Interesting, we do have Detroit and the White Sox.
Mark Biles
February 22nd, 2010
1:42 pm
The way Bobby uses his bullpen, we’ll need every one of those arms by the end of October (I hope).
Andrew in PA
February 22nd, 2010
1:42 pm
haha esco and prado are late.
Andrew in PA
February 22nd, 2010
1:42 pm
guys i bet you melky shows up with no bread
Mitchell
February 22nd, 2010
1:43 pm
Who thought that picture of Gregor Blanco was Melky Cabrera? You’re fired!
Gregor’s my boy. Melky, you got a lot of work to do make up for that. It’s his fault. I’m blaming him.
I wish we had Johnny Damon.
Couch Tater
February 22nd, 2010
1:43 pm
Talk about endearing yourself to the fans.
Asked what made him think he wouldn’t be in Los Angeles in 2011, [Manny]Ramirez replied, “I don’t know. I just know that I’m not going to be here.”
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/dodgers/2010/02/manny-ramirez-dodgers-returning-final-season.html
Jonas
February 22nd, 2010
1:43 pm
I jUst received an email from AJC Mr. Skinner and he say he was wrong, IT Gregor Blanco , end of the Mistery.
Andrew in PA
February 22nd, 2010
1:44 pm
DOB, you gotta tell them to get some pics of heyward,i wanna see this monster.
O.J.
February 22nd, 2010
1:45 pm
Andrew, just look at the photos on the Braves page
Andrew in PA
February 22nd, 2010
1:45 pm
Braves will trade for Manny this year.
Say it ain't so!
February 22nd, 2010
1:47 pm
DOB
This new blogging schedule is confusing. It just took me 10 minutes to find the “real” blog. Is there a way to tell the difference between the real blog and the little stories that you post? I know you are just doing what “the man” tells you to do but it is hard to keep track.
Jonas
February 22nd, 2010
1:47 pm
Braves pr folks it is Blanco and I was incorrect..Skinner, Phillip (CNI – AJC) [Phillip.Skinner@ajc.com]…..This is the text of the email.
Andrew in PA
February 22nd, 2010
1:47 pm
its looks like bobby already told heyward hes won the job in those photos
RHR
February 22nd, 2010
1:48 pm
I jUst received an email from AJC Mr. Skinner and he say he was wrong, IT Gregor Blanco , end of the Mistery.
You emailed him?
Anyway, since we’re pointing out wrongs, it’s “mystery” …
DiamondJim
February 22nd, 2010
1:49 pm
It is my understanding that all Braves games are subject to blackout in the entire state of S.C. I live in Walterboro, SC and do not subscribe to MLB.TV. I have Dish Network, and have the HD Platinum Package. It includes Sports South, Fox, ESPN (all of them), Fox Sports South, TBS – these all carried the Braves last year and will do so this year. Late last year Dish started to carry Peachtree TV (PTV) on one of the sports alternate channels. You had to check to see which one had the game originating on PTV. I’m HOPING Dish will do so again this year. All the games were in HD except the PTV games.
Can’t wait for the season to start!!
Josh
February 22nd, 2010
1:49 pm
How could Escobar be late? He lives in Florida. I hope he didn’t make the mistake of floating back to Cuba and now he can’t get off the island
Jonas
February 22nd, 2010
1:49 pm
Please…can we end of the Damon talk in this blog…..pleaseeeeeeee
bravesgrl4life
February 22nd, 2010
1:51 pm
McFann, our mann is looking really good this year. I can definitely tell he’s dropped some #s. I am so excited about this season! Tried to find decent seats for either the 3/20 or 3/21 games down there – none that are really good, so I guess I won’t be taking my niece to a ST game. Oh well, that just means she needs to visit this Spring/Summer so I can take her to a game at the Ted.
Bravosimos
February 22nd, 2010
1:52 pm
DOB,
how fast are some of the pitchers throwing. Wagner in particular?
Bravosimos
February 22nd, 2010
1:52 pm
Enter your comments here
Jonas
February 22nd, 2010
1:52 pm
reporting time is tomorrow..2/23/10 for position player ..Esco/Prado are not lated, they are drinking the last Mojito of the winter, before reporting time.
O.J.
February 22nd, 2010
1:53 pm
Bravosimos, i mean, its the 3rd or 4th day of camp, I am sure they dont have the radar guns out yet, and if they do, the numbers dont mean anything.
Andrew in PA
February 22nd, 2010
1:54 pm
Heyward flexes his muscles
11:14
AM ETAtlanta Braves Top Email The sky’s the limit for the Braves’ Jason Heyward, who ranked No. 1 in our Keith Law’s list of Top 100 Prospects.
Heyward has turned some heads merely by showing up. David O’Brien of the Atlanta JC tweets this morning that “Jason Heyward reported to Braves camp, and rumors of the uber prospect’s increased muscle mass were not exaggerated.”
A solid spring could put Heyward in contention for the starting spot in right field, where competition will come from Jordan Schafer, among others.
Keith Law
Heyward’s No. 1 for a reason
Heyward will be a middle-of-the-order bat with power and patience while playing above-average defense in right with a plus arm. He has an advanced approach at the plate, something that was already in place when he was a 17-year-old high school senior, and strong, quick wrists that let him commit later to pitches while still driving the ball to all fields. He gets good leverage in his swing and has plenty of loft to eventually produce 30-plus homers a year, and so far hasn’t shown any tendency to expand the zone because he’s trying too hard to hit for power. In the field, he has outgrown center but moves extremely well in right with good reads off the bat. And you can see from all of the above that he has a high baseball IQ, with good feel and/or instincts in every area of the game, especially for someone his age.”
toga party
February 22nd, 2010
1:55 pm
“guys i bet you melky shows up with no bread“-Andrew in PA
Now I feel bad. Maybe we should take up a collection or something?
Rob from SC
February 22nd, 2010
1:56 pm
Elon Brave
do you go to USC
McFann
February 22nd, 2010
1:56 pm
bravesgrl4life our mann is looking really good this year.
Good to hear! I’m ready for the season to start, too–this could be a good one!
That stinks that you won’t be able to take your niece to a Spring Training game. Yeah, guess she’ll just have to make a trip to your place!
Oh, and, hey, do me a solid–if you get to talk to BMac any time soon, tell him McFann says a late “Happy Birthday”.
CB
February 22nd, 2010
2:00 pm
McFann, will he know who McFann is?
beekay
February 22nd, 2010
2:06 pm
Jason “Ironhead” Heyward
JMU Dukes baseball top 40 and rising!
bravesgrl4life
February 22nd, 2010
2:09 pm
McFann, I’m trying to get hubby to delay the trip for a week. I can get some sweet dugout level seats at Dark Star the following weekend.
If I get the extreme pleasure of meeting him, I will certainly tell him belated HB from you.
BravePack12352
February 22nd, 2010
2:11 pm
Jason “The Beast” Heyward
McFann
February 22nd, 2010
2:14 pm
CB–
No…but she cann elaborate if she wants to.
bravesgrl4life–
Ah, I gotcha…so maybe just a “Hello” would be better…might be a little late for a “Happy Birthday”, but hey, the later the greater.
And thanks, BTW.
Andrew in PA
February 22nd, 2010
2:17 pm
wow now they have hinske up on the front page,very exciting
Smitty
February 22nd, 2010
2:17 pm
It’s gonna be J-Hey or Hey’s
And Roodge Owns
February 22nd, 2010
2:20 pm
Ameteur question: Can a hitter be too tall? Is that ever a concern as (I’ve heard) it is with pitchers?
Rob from SC
February 22nd, 2010
2:26 pm
Where are Prado and Escobar
18 Wheels of Love
February 22nd, 2010
2:28 pm
Jason ‘The Hybrid’ Heyward
Jonas
February 22nd, 2010
2:28 pm
And Roodge Owns …No…Who remenber Dave Kingman (6′6)of The Cubs.
Hillbilly
February 22nd, 2010
2:29 pm
Ameteur question: Can a hitter be too tall? Is that ever a concern as (I’ve heard) it is with pitchers?
Is Ed “Too Tall” Jones too tall?
Does Charlie Daniels play a mean fiddle?
Did the Walton’s take way too long to say “goodnight?”
Does Elmer Fudd have trouble with the letter “R?”
Does a 10 pound bag of flour make a really big biscuit?
Smitty
February 22nd, 2010
2:29 pm
And Roodge Owns: If your talking about Heyward I wouldn’t be to worried about him being 6′5″…there are many player in the Majors that are around that height and he is a very graceful moving 6′5″…he def is not clumsy at all went to see him play in Scranton/W.B. for the AAA playoffs and was very impressed by the fact that he was only 20 at the time
18 Wheels of Love
February 22nd, 2010
2:31 pm
Too bad Chocolate Thunder was already taken! That would have been tremendous.
He could go by ‘Oak’ and come out to Oak Tree by Morris Day and the Time.
UKUGA/brent a.
February 22nd, 2010
2:32 pm
“guys i bet you melky shows up with no bread”
that typo made me laugh more than most . . .
bravesgrl4life
February 22nd, 2010
2:33 pm
Hillbilly, that made me laugh out loud
Thrillhouse44
February 22nd, 2010
2:34 pm
JMU Dukes baseball top 40 and rising! – beekay
Go Dukes!
CB
February 22nd, 2010
2:35 pm
Hillbilly,you are watching entirely too much TV, don’t you have anything else to do in the hills?
Thrillhouse44
February 22nd, 2010
2:36 pm
Jason “The Beast” Heyward – BravePack
Sean Taylor used to be called “Meast” for Man-beast. But recycling a nickname diminishes it, I believe.
CB
February 22nd, 2010
2:36 pm
I forgot my smiley
toga party
February 22nd, 2010
2:37 pm
Does anyone remember from last year if mlb.tv had any price discounts at the beginning of the season? Like how most cable companies have a $10 – $15 discount on MLB Extra Innings during the first week of the season?
Asked another way, is the current pricing ($100 for regular, $120 for premium) likely to be the best deal until after the all-star break?
Thanks for any input.
CB
February 22nd, 2010
2:38 pm
Chipper called Heyward “The Freak”. Is that taken?
David O'Brien
February 22nd, 2010
2:39 pm
Posted a story on Hank Aaron and his thoughts on Heyward, Hanson, steroids, Cox’s final season, etc. Click on link at top of right-hand side of this blog
bravesgrl4life
February 22nd, 2010
2:40 pm
CB, isn’t that what they call Tim Lincecum?
David O'Brien
February 22nd, 2010
2:40 pm
CB: The Freak is Jevon Kearse’s nickname. So it’s taken, at least for football.
Hillbilly
February 22nd, 2010
2:41 pm
CB, just waiting on turkey season and baseball. And I don’t even know why I chose the name “Hillbilly.” I live in South Central Arkansas so I’m really a river-bottom flat-lander.
Bravesgrl4life, Does a one-legged duck swim in a circle? Now THAT would be a great one for a Geico Commercial.
toga party
February 22nd, 2010
2:44 pm
Hillbilly, I think Aflack might use it first.
Master of Karate and Friendship
February 22nd, 2010
2:45 pm
Also, Tim Lincecum is known as The Freak, along with The Franchise.
CB
February 22nd, 2010
2:45 pm
DOB and bravesgrl4life,maybe Heyward will show what “A Real Freak” is.
And Roodge Owns
February 22nd, 2010
2:46 pm
Answers on the tallness much appreciated.
bravesgrl4life
February 22nd, 2010
2:46 pm
Hillbilly – so true.
Jonas
February 22nd, 2010
2:47 pm
toga party….No ,that it the price, I was subcribe last year to MLBTV and was a disaster, first they freeze a lot, it about 3 to 4 minute delay, you has to have a fast internet connection to received the feed. Also if you are in the Atlanta Market the TV feed is block, you can swithch in to the radio feed, but that it..I don’t expending my money this year on that.
claudell
February 22nd, 2010
2:48 pm
How about “The Natural”, and we’ll put him on the cover of Sports Illustrated?
bravesgrl4life
February 22nd, 2010
2:49 pm
Maybe “Real Freak” will be used for Heyward. I can’t wait to see him hit against Lincecum
CB
February 22nd, 2010
2:49 pm
We are supposed to leave Thurs. for Dark Star. Do you think I can talk the wife into leaving in the morning?
beekay
February 22nd, 2010
2:49 pm
Jason “the Haymaker” Heyward
beekay
February 22nd, 2010
2:49 pm
“The Heymaker”
Mikeyc588
February 22nd, 2010
2:51 pm
DOB,
Didn’t Tim Lincecum already take “The Freak”?
Jonas
February 22nd, 2010
2:54 pm
I got Jason Heyward Nick name….”The Duck”…he was AFLAC All American Prep First baseman….
David O'Brien
February 22nd, 2010
2:56 pm
The Boras legend continues: “This [Detroit] is where I wanted to be from day one,” Damon said “I think [Scott Boras] did a great job.”
thinbreakness
February 22nd, 2010
2:58 pm
Well that’s swell. Must’ve been the threat from Damon’s wife that pushed Dombrowski over the top.
David O'Brien
February 22nd, 2010
2:58 pm
Hearing around here that the Edward Salcedo thing might be a done deal. Not confirmed yet, but that’s the word.
CB
February 22nd, 2010
2:58 pm
DOB,good story on Hank. Now if Heyward can have that career……
David O'Brien
February 22nd, 2010
2:59 pm
Mikey: Don’t know how I forgot — yes, Lincecum is The Freak in baseball. So it’s taken twice. At least.
bravesgrl4life
February 22nd, 2010
2:59 pm
That’s a bunch of BS from Damon, don’t you think? He had to say that. I mean, what was he gonna say? “Well, I really didn’t want to go to Detroit, but since they were the only ones putting up the money Scott wanted, I had to take it?”
TommyP
February 22nd, 2010
3:01 pm
Enough with the need for a nickname. This has gone on for, what, 5 hours now?
Wow…
Jonas
February 22nd, 2010
3:03 pm
NO MORE DAMON….NO MORE DAMON…..NO MORE DAMON….NO MORE DAMON
TommyP
February 22nd, 2010
3:03 pm
I’ve read where Salcedo will make the transition to 3B as his frame fills out. Is that accurate? (read an old scouting report of him)
That signing neatly takes the place of our lost first round pick. Well done, Bravos. I hope this becomes a trend when we sign a Type-A free agent.
thinbreakness
February 22nd, 2010
3:04 pm
If anyone has been to Detroit – Do they have an ivory tower there?
ncscoots
February 22nd, 2010
3:05 pm
The Boras legend continues: “This [Detroit] is where I wanted to be from day one,” Damon said “I think [Scott Boras] did a great job.”
I know ballplayers can be dumb as rocks, but, seriously, does Johnny bleepin Damon really think anybody with a functioning brain cell buys that, LOL?
TommyP
February 22nd, 2010
3:05 pm
From some of our prospect gurus, what’s the report on Salcedo?
Arkansas Transplant
February 22nd, 2010
3:06 pm
Jason “The Experience” Heyward
Arkansas Transplant
February 22nd, 2010
3:06 pm
You just don’t know until you “experience” it yourself.
TommyP
February 22nd, 2010
3:06 pm
Hard to take Damon’s comments seriously. About as hard to take as Boras’ claims of offers his clients have from mystery teams.
NCmike
February 22nd, 2010
3:07 pm
I’m still going with the Minotaur (1/2 man – 1/2 bull)
N8
February 22nd, 2010
3:08 pm
“Where are Prado and Escobar
Rumor has it that Escobar enlisted Prado’s help to go and find Brayan Pena and bring him back to Atlanta.
bravesgrl4life
February 22nd, 2010
3:09 pm
Detroit is awful. My in-laws have a place in Marysville, MI, and you have to go through Detroit to get there if you drive up. Nasty town. We’ve started flying into Flynt so we can come into Marysville from the northside and not have to go through Detroit. Two upsides – not having to go through the constant construction and terrible roads in the City (even the Interstate), and the Flynt airport is a lot less busy than the Detroit Ft Wayne airport.
Half-A-Glass
February 22nd, 2010
3:10 pm
From DOB’s story…..
“On Heyward’s minor league achievements: “Things like that don’t impress me, minor league credentials, what a player does. The thing that impresses me is when a player gets to the major leagues, how well he adapts to the major leagues. I’ve seen a lot of guys come up that had great potential — and I’m not saying he’s going to falter, by no stretch of the imagination; I think he’s going to do well, but I don’t get too excited until after I see them perform in the major leagues.—Henry Aaron”
And that folks is what a relative few have been saying about Heyward on the blog for sometime now. Too many minor league “can’t miss”es have missed. Stuff like “we can’t sign this one or we can’t go after that one…. it will block Heyward!” Heyward is full of potential but potential is just what it is until he does it on the big league level.
I hope Heyward is a star! I know the chances of the Braves succeeding are riding high on his shoulders…… but I ain’t getting the vapors about this young stud (like most here are) until he’s producing at the major league level.
Bottom line…. I hope he’s real. I hope he’s a star. But I ain’t crowning him the king just because he is a physical specimen and has performed at the minor league level. Don’t agree with me? Then argue with the “Hamer” then. He seems to know a thing or two about the game and he agrees with me
)
CB
February 22nd, 2010
3:10 pm
scoots,Boras probably wrote that for him weeks ago and left the team name to be inserted later.
David O'Brien
February 22nd, 2010
3:11 pm
CB, loved the line about Boras leaving that for Damon to fill in the blank.
Jersey Gil
February 22nd, 2010
3:11 pm
Hey guys..this is the Real Deal..the Next Miguel Tejada from the RD.
Remember the Nick Name of Tejada..Gua,Gua(mean in Spanish ‘The Bus”, because Migue drive run in.
Edward Salcedo is a FA SS with a 6′3”, 190 lb. frame from La Vega, Dominican Republic. Big League body, strong and athletic. Smooth, easy defensive actions, easy plus arm, can really play SS. Aggressive swing, power projection, deep load from wide base, good bat speed, geared to drive fastballs, timing will be an issue. All the tools to be a top player. Potential 1st round type if in draft.
NCmike
February 22nd, 2010
3:11 pm
Ok Johnny, whatever you say. I’m sure he’s as happy as Richard Seymour was when he got traded from the Patriots to the Raiders. Just where he wanted to be…
N8
February 22nd, 2010
3:11 pm
Maybe the US Government should hire Boras to do most of the negotiated with their importing and exporting. Seems to me, he could eliminate the defecit in under 2-3 years with his magic he works.
Smitty
February 22nd, 2010
3:12 pm
Hey guys I’m going to create a fantasy league on ESPN.com would any of you be interested?
bigchiefrg
February 22nd, 2010
3:13 pm
how bout Jason ‘The Situation’ Heyward?
RHR
February 22nd, 2010
3:13 pm
+1 for N8
Umm no but really, no word on the whereabouts of my boys Yunel and Marteeeeeeen? Or is that on another blog entry somewhere else? I’ll go look.
bravesgrl4life
February 22nd, 2010
3:13 pm
LOL, N8. You might be right about that.
Bayou Brave
February 22nd, 2010
3:13 pm
The McDonough Masher?
David O'Brien
February 22nd, 2010
3:13 pm
D-backs offered $1 mill for Salcedo, but I haven’t heard what other teams might’ve been involved this time around (Cleveland nearly signed him two years ago for about twice that amount; I’ve heard Braves’ proposed deal with him is for less than $2 mill).
O.J.
February 22nd, 2010
3:14 pm
None of these nicknames make any sense at all. Bobby will probably call him Jace.
Mikeyc588
February 22nd, 2010
3:17 pm
There are some great nicknames out there today, but all too often people just get lazy. I’m completely over the whole A-Rod, D-Wade, T-Mac thing. The absolute best ones, in my opinion, are totally unique like The Say Hey Kid, The Splendid Splinter or The Big Hurt (or even names in basketball like The Answer and Agent Zero). Point being, if Heyward turns out to be half as good as some on this blog, including myself, think he might be, clowns like Stuart Scott will probably call him something boring and trite like J-Hey. Here’s hoping I’m wrong.
David O'Brien
February 22nd, 2010
3:17 pm
The Henry County Heavyweight. Or just Henry County Heavy.
The McDonough Masher
The Bull Brave.
Or something exotic. Divine Intervention, perhaps. No? Hey, just throwing it out there.
rammerjammer
February 22nd, 2010
3:17 pm
Imagine if Bob Cousy visited the Celtics and said, “you know, this sport really needs more white players. We have to figure out a way to get more white guys to play basketball again.”
Or maybe Jim Taylor should return to Green Bay and voice his concern with the lack of white runningbacks in the NFL.
It’s sad that the Henry Aarons of this world can’t just enjoy the events, and admire the work ethic and skills of the participants, without reducing the activity to another social engineering problem.
ncscoots
February 22nd, 2010
3:17 pm
None of these nicknames make any sense at all. Bobby will probably call him Jace.
…after four months of “kid”, maybe.
Jersey Gil
February 22nd, 2010
3:18 pm
DOB..The Baby Bull Braves was Cepeda…
thinbreakness
February 22nd, 2010
3:20 pm
Half Glass-
I think the main reason people are so high on Heyward, aside from the obvious, is that in 1,003 plate appearances he’s made in the minor leagues, he’s only struck out 138 times. In these 3 years his OBP is .391. The guy at 20, strikes out once every 7-8 times at bat. This is marvelous, even in the minor leagues.
ncscoots
February 22nd, 2010
3:20 pm
clowns like Stuart Scott will probably call him something boring and trite like J-Hey. Here’s hoping I’m wrong.
Doesn’t matter. The only nickname that counts is the one in the clubhouse.
I kinda like that “McDonough Masher” thing, though, for public consumption. Didn’t someone throw that out there earlier?
David O'Brien
February 22nd, 2010
3:20 pm
Jersey Gil, Cepeda was The Baby Bull. He wasn’t The Bull Brave.
Snotboogie
February 22nd, 2010
3:21 pm
Maybe the US Government should hire Boras to do most of the negotiated with their importing and exporting. Seems to me, he could eliminate the defecit in under 2-3 years with his magic he works. N8
The perfect opening.How long before that guy from Utah chimes in on this with his own perspective.I say 1 hour, max!
RHR
February 22nd, 2010
3:21 pm
Leave the nicknames to me. I’ll have to see him play before I can get a feel for a nickname so lets tap the brakes on nicknames until he makes the opening day 25 man, at least.
JUST SAYIN'
February 22nd, 2010
3:23 pm
Having seen Hank Aaaron’s name (and Red Skelton’s) mentioned on the blog a few times today please forgive me for a little name dropping.
About ten years ago I attended two weeks at the Duke Fat Farm (my wife went with me as a supporter) and the second week Hank Aaron suddenly showed up, unannounced to any of us.
Needless to say most of the twenty or so attendees at that session were very pleased to get acquainted with him. He stayed for the entire week and I got a chance to have a number of casual conversations with him. He told me his wife (Billye) was on a trip to Europe with some girl friends) and he decided this was a good time to make one of his visits to Duke for his “tune-up.” I told him I didn’t think he needed it.
To sum up I can’t remember meeting a nicer gentleman, a fellow who was totally at ease with everyone there and who participated in the program just like the rest of us.
—————-
And about 25 years ago my company made some commercials about one of their products and I was involved in the production. Red Skelton was contracted and surprised me when he said that was his first filmed commercial. He said he did all his commercials on his TV shows LIVE. Again, spending two days with him was an experience my wife and I hold very dear. Red was just as nice as you might imagine. He was funny from the moment he arrived and was “on stage” at all times.
————-
I am getting MLB Extra Innings based on your recommendations and I look forward to not missing any Braves games this year. Let the games begin.
One question; I have looked over the list of unsigned players and I can’t find any for whom I want to trade either Diaz or Melky. Do you know any you’d trade either of them for? That would be the result if we signed anyone else.
Jersey Gil
February 22nd, 2010
3:23 pm
DOB..That’s right..my bad….”THE BULL” Cool…
NCmike
February 22nd, 2010
3:24 pm
Worst nickname ever…. Ryan Anderson…. The Little Unit
Jersey Gil
February 22nd, 2010
3:25 pm
DOB..Where this KID Salcedo going to start?…in A Ball?…Your opinion.
N8
February 22nd, 2010
3:26 pm
The problem with most people hoping that he becomes a star is just that. Why pin all your hopes on him being a star?
How about just letting him be Jason Heyward, and hope that he becomes a solid everyday player? This team doesn’t need stars in the lineup. They need guys that aren’t going to be easy outs and hurt the team more than they help it.
For almost 20 years the core of the Atlanta Braves has been built on excellent pitching, and that will continue with the likes of JJJ and Hanson, along with the guys coming on soon.
A team with a budget to uphold (like the Braves), needs young players to produce at an above average level while they are cheap so they can focus their money on what they like to focus it on. Right now (other than Chipper) the majority of the money invested in this team is in the pitching staff.
If we EXPECT Heyward to be the next Pujols, we’re setting ourselves up for disappointment. I’m sure while Wren and the Braves see Jason Heyward as a potential superstar down the road. I bet if you asked them for realistic expectations of him in the next 2-3 years, it would be of somebody that plays above average defense (shouldn’t be a problem), runs the bases well (shouldn’t be a problem) and one who hits for league average BA and power (may or not be a problem with his limited minor league AB’s), all while doing it at a far less cost than they could have signed a guy to play RF until they KNEW Heyward was ready to produce.
Hell, Francoeur was going to cost a few million bucks this year, as would Ryan Church. So if Heyward gives them what Francoeur could have given them (save some horrible AB’s and the K totals), all while showing (and here’s the key) IMPROVEMENT and willingness to be coached, I bet they’ll be elated at that production.
Stop expecting this guy to be the savior by being an instant MVP candidate. When in reality, being the savior of this team’s offense might simply mean hitting .270 with 20ish HR and 80-100 RBI, while doing what he does in the OF.
In other words, as long as he’s not a black hole in the lineup, his production, whatever it may be, will be enough to help contribute to wins.
If this pitching staff holds up health wise, all they need from the lineup is league average at each position to play above .500 ball and have a legit shot to win every night.
Seems to me when we had the soon to be 20+ million dollar man (Tex) in the cleanup spot, we didn’t win games because of the pitching?
I’ve said it before, I’ll keep repeating now. This team offensively is living and dying on what Chipper and Glaus do. The other 6 guys are merely along for the ride and we pretty much know what we’re going to get out of them. Chipper and Glaus are the unknown’s with age and injury. Heyward is a bit of an unknown too. But I think if given 150+ starts in RF, you can probably pencil in a .265 average, 15 HR and 75 RBI just based on what his raw ability will produce. Which is about what Chipper gave the team last year.
Why should a 20 year old rookie with fewer than 200 AB above A-Ball be expected to produce more than a 15 year veteran making 13 million dollars? The answer is that he shouldn’t. Stop putting the weight of the world on this kid and let him play.
Snotboogie
February 22nd, 2010
3:26 pm
rammerjammer,
You are missing his point here, entirely. If you read his comments in full (on the other blog/burst), its hard not to agree with his points. Besides, he is doing this on top of enjoying and admiring “the work ethic and skills of the participants”.
Jersey Gil
February 22nd, 2010
3:27 pm
I got a nick name..how about…” A TEAM “…without the Mohaw cut.
ncscoots
February 22nd, 2010
3:27 pm
RHR is SUCH a deal-killer, LOL. Tapping the brakes, indeed.
Besides, it appears that the kid would have to have a ST faceplant of magnitude beyond human ken to not make the 25-man.
Steve McP
February 22nd, 2010
3:27 pm
Damon probably thought that if Tiger could get away with what he said last week then everybody would be on board with anything he chose (or was instructed) to say.
Mitchie-san
February 22nd, 2010
3:28 pm
MFIKY 2.0?
Snotboogie
February 22nd, 2010
3:29 pm
thinbreakness
LOL at the name change.
N8
February 22nd, 2010
3:29 pm
How about just calling him “BALLGAME”?
Because apparently that’s what opposing managers will be saying when they see that he’s penciled in the lineup.
Willy Wally
February 22nd, 2010
3:30 pm
Gotta bring back Jack Dempsey’s “Manassa Mauler” nickname. Call Heyward the “McDonough Mauler”.
Prospects, Prospects, Prospects
February 22nd, 2010
3:31 pm
How about calling him Prospect until he has actually done something on the major league level?
CB
February 22nd, 2010
3:31 pm
DOB, if you are riding on the streets toward Dark Star one morning and you look in the next lane and there is this crazy looking guy tapping on his steering wheel in his RV singing along with Janis Joplin “Me and Bobby McGhee” you can wave. There goes CB.
N8
February 22nd, 2010
3:32 pm
Or we could just call him Brasky. Dude can do it all.
RHR
February 22nd, 2010
3:33 pm
Thats my favorite so far, N8. Made me laugh, at least. But it would get confusing around here with all the other Ballgame! comments.
Willy Wally
February 22nd, 2010
3:33 pm
Call Heyward “40″ ’cause like Greg Oden, Heyward already looks 40 in the face.
DAVBRAVES
February 22nd, 2010
3:34 pm
I love how we give unproven talent 2 mil, but cant up the offer to damon a couple mil
RHR
February 22nd, 2010
3:35 pm
Can you like, go be a Tigers fan or something? You’re starting to get on my nerves with your Damon crush. Ship, sailed, etc.
Warhead
February 22nd, 2010
3:36 pm
How about “The Stunna from McDonough” …
Er, maybe not.
DAVBRAVES
February 22nd, 2010
3:36 pm
Is it possible for a team to not win a game all year, because the mets might just be the first. If you just look at the rotation they have it really sucks bad.
JUST SAYIN'
February 22nd, 2010
3:37 pm
Nickname?
How about “HULK?”
ncscoots
February 22nd, 2010
3:37 pm
Because apparently that’s what opposing managers will be saying when they see that he’s penciled in the lineup.
Also:
Albert Pujols retires after 2011, when he realizes he’ll forever more be second in the MVP voting.
David Wright requests a trade to KC, just to quit playing in the same division. Or league.
Ryan Howard tries Nutri-System, in a futile effort to carry the same weight as Heyward and not look totally chunky. Fails miserably, retires mid-season.
Mikeyc588
February 22nd, 2010
3:38 pm
DOB –
Hahaha. I like the Henry County Heavyweight a lot. We don’t know if the kid can mash in the big leagues just yet. But 6′5″, 245lbs? Jeez. The kid’s the same size as Tony Gonzalez!
N8
February 22nd, 2010
3:38 pm
“I love how we give unproven talent 2 mil, but cant up the offer to damon a couple mil” DAVBRAVES
I love how some people just don’t get it.
First of all, it wasn’t a “couple of mil”. The Braves allegedly offered less than 4 mil (much of it deferred), and he signed with Detroit for 8 mil. Not sure about your methods of calculating math. But it wasn’t a couple of mil.
Secondly, why not? They are investing in a guy that might be with the team for a decade or so, as opposed to overpaying for one year of a guy that wouldn’t have done as well in Atlanta as he did in NY (or the AL in general), and then would have moved on. Especially with Schafer maybe being ready to help mid-way through the year.
If you can’t see the logic in that, I don’t know how else to explain it to you. It likely won’t matter anyhow. Proceed with the anger.
DAVBRAVES
February 22nd, 2010
3:38 pm
HOPE THE METS GO DEFEATED.
Kevin in Chatty
February 22nd, 2010
3:38 pm
My nickname suggestion for Heyward
The Heymaker
thinbreakness
February 22nd, 2010
3:39 pm
N8-
Get jiggy with it bro.
You hit the nail on the head. Francouer in 5 ML seasons: 1558 ABs, 264 Ks or 1 K every 6 ABs. As you said earlier, the 8th spot needs to put the ball in play. Heyward will do this. As far as Glauss and Chipper being imperative to making the offense go – that can be said for any teams 3,4 hitters. IMO, our lineup is littered with contact hitters and those guy’s success will determine the success of Chipper and Glauss. I disagree with the idea that the rest will be successful if Chipper and Glauss are successful.
18 Wheels of Love
February 22nd, 2010
3:40 pm
More nicknames:
Freeman & Heyward = Peaches & Herb
The Hybrid – half man half alien
Cap’n Crunch – dude eats nothing but cereal
Hoops – maybe after a cereal and his basketball height
Hancock – After Will Smith anti-super hero
JYD – Junk Yard Dog
OMG – Oh My God or One Man Gang
The Argonaught – Jason & The Argonaughts
NASA – for his moon shots
The Falcon – play on dirty birds
UFO – Unidentified Freakish Object
Ramses – wasn’t he a very young leader too?
The Eclipse – so big he eclipses everything
The Shadow
Hootie – sorry, was thinking of that line in Jerry McQuire “Are you Hootie?”
Midnight Train – after the song
J Train – if Stuart Scott doesn’t call him that first.
Choo Choo – another train reference
King Baby – comedian Jim Gaffigan reference but it works
Face – A-Team reference also face of the franchise
The Nurtural – haha
Baby Ruth
Slow sales day….
DAVBRAVES
February 22nd, 2010
3:40 pm
N8, that is correct ,you are correct.I just think the braves have the money to do both
Willy Wally
February 22nd, 2010
3:41 pm
Sigh.
No reason for the sigh, but I just wanted to know if it gets on anyone else’s nerves when I sigh as much as it does mine when other men say sigh on a blog.
N8
February 22nd, 2010
3:42 pm
“I disagree with the idea that the rest will be successful if Chipper and Glauss are successful.”
I guess I should clarify. The main power (everybody seems to be in love with the longball), will come from Chipper and Glaus. If those guys aren’t healthy and hitting HR, the method in which this team will put runs up in bunches will be by hitting a ton of doubles and singles, while running the bases well.
TnBrian
February 22nd, 2010
3:43 pm
I’m not black, but I’d be scratching my head too if I was and saw such a high percentage of white’s in the sport I once dominated. Speaking of Aaron. Atlanta needs Heyward for more than just his bat and glove.
Lew
February 22nd, 2010
3:43 pm
Well Denizens – Today was a perfect example of why I go this early in ST – Chipper signed all my artwork, I got a Hank Aaron signed baseball and got to talk to Bobby Dews for 10 minutes. A pretty damned good day – even if there was little sunshine today, otherwise. Also got to meet TampaDawg, who was down by the batting cages getting lots of autographs.
cowboy billy wags
February 22nd, 2010
3:44 pm
i don’t know ’bout the rest of you fellas, but i don’t ever name my horses until i’ve put ‘em down
Andy K.
February 22nd, 2010
3:44 pm
DOB, is Chipper taping his fingers due to his finger injury scare a few weeks ago? Or is this a new thing for him?
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
3:47 pm
I hope the braves atleast look at dye DAVBRAVE
DOB has reported several times that Wren has told him that they have absolutely no interest in Dye. Pick another wish
Daybed Wagmoe
February 22nd, 2010
3:47 pm
I like the “Divine Inspiration” one. Maybe “The ‘Ward of God” (with the “Ward” pronounced as “word,” since that’s how that part of his name is pronounced)?
Maturin
February 22nd, 2010
3:47 pm
Kevin in Chatty – The Heymaker, I like it!
Bobby will probably end up calling him ‘Sonny.
TnBrian
February 22nd, 2010
3:48 pm
When Heyward starts hitting HR’s, like a lot of them, they can put in the “Jason Station” in the 2nd deck in RF? Corny, lame or what?
NCmike
February 22nd, 2010
3:49 pm
Well played 18 Wheels, well played. I especially like Cap’n Crunch. My buddies in college called me Sugar Bear for a while after I bought a box of Super Sugar Crisp. I’d be happy to bestow that name on Heyward as well. Sugar Bear, big and strong as a bear, swing as sweet as sugar…
Crazy Trades McGee
February 22nd, 2010
3:49 pm
Primetime Heyward
ncscoots
February 22nd, 2010
3:50 pm
As you said earlier, the 8th spot needs to put the ball in play. Heyward will do this.
Bobby might hit the kid at 8, for a week, for appearances, LOL. That’s it. If the kid is good enough to be up, he’ll be good enough to hit 6, even 5 on McCann’s days off.
Schafer’s skill set made him a good option to hit 8 as a rook, because that skill set (good speed and some pop) did not directly address the Braves’ crying need for power last year. Heyward, on the other hand, is a masher. Bobby is not going to hit that guy any further down in the order than he has to, not when the team has much the same need as last year.
18 Wheels of Love
February 22nd, 2010
3:50 pm
I say we call him Vader.
Steve from OH
February 22nd, 2010
3:50 pm
I like Brasky, N8.
Smitty
February 22nd, 2010
3:50 pm
Andrew in PA, nolie, bravofan : do any of you want to join my fantasy league?
thinbreakness
February 22nd, 2010
3:51 pm
N8-
That was the approach last year with KJ and Frenchy. Obviously a failed experiment. But they no longer wear the uni. I don’t think or hope both will not injure simultaneously. We have depth with Infante and Hinske. They may both end up making huge contributions. Bottom line – This team has 13 guys that I think are good situational hitters. Save maybe Ross, but his situations when not starting will be to drive the ball out or in the gap.
CB
February 22nd, 2010
3:52 pm
Can everybody hear the excitement in Lew’s voice? It sounded like a man in heaven.
rammerjammer
February 22nd, 2010
3:53 pm
Snotboogie,
I read the entire article, and re-read it. It’s just bizarre that Aaron sees this as a problem.
At one point, Aaron compares Buckhead to Fulton County and hauls out the old class warfare argument that it’s a problem of economics. I’m sorry, but when did someone ever say, “I could’ve been a great outfielder, but we were just too poor.”
And then he develops an action plan that what black kids need is manicured fields and better equipment! This is the most unintentionally funny thing I’ve read recently. Look at the high-quality inner-city basketball facilities…and the beautifully manicured football fields. Puh-lease.
And, wow, those Dominican Republic kids must have the best baseball facilities in the world (next to Buckhead’s, of course) to turn out such outstanding ballplayers.
This problem Aaron has identified has nothing to do with economic opportunity and everything to do with the rise of other athletic opportunities beyond baseball. That it troubles him to see so many white and Hispanic baseball players is sad in itself and diminishes his accomplishments.
He would be better suited to shaking hands and signing autographs at this point in his life, lest he become the next Al Campanis.
ncscoots
February 22nd, 2010
3:54 pm
Can everybody hear the excitement in Lew’s voice? It sounded like a man in heaven.
Maybe the bikini-clad babes are drooling over his newly-svelt physique, LOL.
brian
February 22nd, 2010
3:54 pm
I would go with the Argonaught
thinbreakness
February 22nd, 2010
3:55 pm
ncscoots-
He’ll hit 8th until he proves he has power at the major league level.
TnBrian
February 22nd, 2010
3:55 pm
I’m glad for Lew, a little jealous, but still thrilled for him.
The first thing I’d ask Chipper is what brand of dip some he uses. I’ve always been curious because for me the Wolf peach is my favorite and it’s cheap,cheap,cheap. Got a big dip in right now as a matter of fact.
CB
February 22nd, 2010
3:57 pm
TnBrian, for some reason I think most of us already knew that. J/K
TnBrian
February 22nd, 2010
3:58 pm
How is Kelly ahead of Martin in this pole—
http://wwwrotoauthority.com/2010/02/second-baseman-rankings.html
TnBrian
February 22nd, 2010
3:59 pm
http://www.rotoauthority.com/2010/02/second-baseman-rankings.html
Jersey Gil
February 22nd, 2010
4:02 pm
Lew…Are you going to put for sales Chipper signed Art Work?..If you do…send me email.
Bailey
February 22nd, 2010
4:02 pm
DAVBRAVES,
N8 is correct on the Damon/Salcedo thing. The Braves may have to money to do both, but Damon was not on their “needs” list. Damon was on there “that’d be nice to have” list. If they had wanted Damon, they would have raised their offer, but they didn’t. This Salcedo kid represents something that we DO NOT have in the organization, a ligitimate eventual replacement for Chipper. The risk/reward is far greater by spending 2 mil on an 18 year old (hopefully) kid with big upside than spending 8 mil on a 36 year old guy who’s never been in the NL and is on the back side of his career.
Daslied
February 22nd, 2010
4:06 pm
Guess I’ll chime in with some Heyward nicknames…
Atlantas (what’s a nickname without spelling liberties?)
Steve Nebraska
Shoulders
The Vortex
Stone Mountain
With the Coke connection, he could be Mr. Pibb or Powerade…
18 Wheels of Love
February 22nd, 2010
4:08 pm
Pop Rocks
ncscoots
February 22nd, 2010
4:09 pm
He’ll hit 8th until he proves he has power at the major league level.
Bro, if he goes north, he’ll have already proven that to the guy who makes out the lineup, LOL.
Jersey Gil
February 22nd, 2010
4:09 pm
Here the Top 10 Braves Prospect: as you see not 3rd pr SS Position:
I think the Braves do the right think with Salcedo KID.
1. Jason Heyward, of
2. Freddie Freeman, 1b
3. Julio Teheran, rhp
4. Mike Minor, lhp
5. Craig Kimbrel, rhp
6. Christian Bethancourt, c
7. Randall Delgado, rhp
8. Zeke Spruill, rhp
9. Cody Johnson, of
10. Adam Milligan, of
beekay
February 22nd, 2010
4:09 pm
Lil’ Hank
Heymaker
Ironhead
Jay-Hey
TnBrian
February 22nd, 2010
4:11 pm
I hope Heyward has a dad that has some hitting tips for him if you know what I mean. TP has been known to …..
Thanagar
February 22nd, 2010
4:11 pm
“Natural” seems a little trite…how about “supernatural”?
wheelz007
February 22nd, 2010
4:12 pm
I like:
Hoss 2.0
JYD
Stone Mountain
Lew
February 22nd, 2010
4:13 pm
Gil-No, I don’t sell autographed artwork. About twenty years ago, I worked in that line and it’s the sleaziest business I’ve ever seen. Tell you what, though- you’ve been one of my best blog friends for years now, so email me your address ( May already have it, but just in case) and when I get home, the drawing he signed is yours.
Roman Gal
February 22nd, 2010
4:14 pm
Chipper Jones and hitting coach Terry Pendleton (like Chipper, a former Braves third baseman) chat during workouts. –From one of today’s photos.
This makes it sound like Chipper is also a former third baseman.
Jersey Gil
February 22nd, 2010
4:15 pm
I think the People in the sorrounding Atlanta Area going to enjoy the Gwinnett Braves, they going to have awasome team this year,special if Jason Heyward going to start over there, a lot of good arms.
18 Wheels of Love
February 22nd, 2010
4:16 pm
Night Train and he could come out to Public Enemy
Lew
February 22nd, 2010
4:16 pm
Roman Gal – need your address, too. Got some art for you, too. No ears, though.
Jersey Gil
February 22nd, 2010
4:17 pm
Thanks Lew..
Lew
February 22nd, 2010
4:17 pm
Any time, Dude.
tiger297
February 22nd, 2010
4:17 pm
Lew
glad to hear you are enjoying it doesn’t look like I’ll be able to make it this year but the home opener day is getting closer so I will have to wait for that
Arkansas Transplant
February 22nd, 2010
4:19 pm
Yeah, the Gwinnett Braves should be rather entertaining this year.
DAP
February 22nd, 2010
4:20 pm
Chipper Jones and hitting coach Terry Pendleton (like Chipper, a former Braves third baseman) chat during workouts. –From one of today’s photos.
This makes it sound like Chipper is also a former third baseman.
not that its a huge deal, but ive noticed that alot of those captions are really bad, for one reason or another.
Lew
February 22nd, 2010
4:21 pm
tiger- too bad – you’d really enjoy it -, but wish I could make opening day. Can’t even go see them at Fenway this year since they’re not playing the Red Sox this time around.
thinbreakness
February 22nd, 2010
4:22 pm
ncscoots-
He ain’t gonna occupy any spot 1-6, so maybe he bats 7th and Diaz/Melky bat 8th. The only other spot possible for this rookie is 2nd and that’s Prado. Chipper, Glauss, McCann will go 3-5. OK maybe he hits 6th, but I don’t see Cox taking a proven RHanded run producer (Escobar) out of this spot. LOL Dude, the rookie hits either 7th or 8th.
Arkansas Transplant
February 22nd, 2010
4:22 pm
Lew,
Speaking of pictures, there was one with Maddux, Glavine and Smoltz that I’ve been looking for the past couple of months. The one I was asking you about earlier and I’ve been unsuccessful so far in finding it. It’s a really awesome photo and would love to see your take of a drawing of it.
I can't take it anymore
February 22nd, 2010
4:22 pm
why not have Matt Diaz bat leadoff? put nate/prado/esco in the two hole?
Andrew in PA
February 22nd, 2010
4:23 pm
Smitty,yeah ill join,where do you play?
Roman Gal
February 22nd, 2010
4:24 pm
No ears, though. Lew
Haha…ok. I’ll shoot you an email after I get out of class.
Roman Gal
February 22nd, 2010
4:25 pm
not that its a huge deal, but ive noticed that alot of those captions are really bad, for one reason or another.
I definitely agree. It’s not a big deal, just kind of annoying…
Hillbilly
February 22nd, 2010
4:27 pm
I see we got the the obligatory Tommy Hanson tongue photo today. That should have been on the bingo card.
Jersey Gil
February 22nd, 2010
4:27 pm
Lew..if you coming this way in the summer let me know, we can go to one of the Braves/Phillis games, already has ticket for the 9 games visit of the Braves.
Heath
February 22nd, 2010
4:27 pm
I can’t take it anymore -
Matty would be just as good a choice as anyone…and probably better than McLouth. He has always hit with a good average, have a OBP….could do worse.
ncscoots
February 22nd, 2010
4:31 pm
I don’t see Cox taking a proven RHanded run producer (Escobar) out of this spot.
You guys and this “Escobar as run-producer” thing, LOL. Mercy.
doug
February 22nd, 2010
4:33 pm
i liked Hoss 2.0 and lil’ Hank, why don’t we combine them to Hank 2.0?
pills91
February 22nd, 2010
4:36 pm
I just hope at some point we can call him All-Star…
I can't take it anymore
February 22nd, 2010
4:37 pm
Heath-
I agree. you have to love his hustle from 2nd to home. nate in the 2-hole?
I wish I knew what bobby has in mind
NCmike
February 22nd, 2010
4:37 pm
Hammerin’ Heyward
NCmike
February 22nd, 2010
4:41 pm
Space Cowboy
Gangster of Love
Maurice?
Lew
February 22nd, 2010
4:41 pm
Arkansas Transplant – Let me know if you find it. Sounds like a good subject. Never could get Maddux to sding any artwork, though I asked. Got Smoltz and Glavine to sign, though.
Gil-Sounds like a plan. Ruben Amaro Jr. has promised me some good seats if I make it down there, too.
Mike in VA
February 22nd, 2010
4:41 pm
Jack’in Jason
NCmike
February 22nd, 2010
4:43 pm
Um Mike in VA. I REALLY don’t think that’s a good nickname
Razorback Red
February 22nd, 2010
4:45 pm
Wayne in Utah, I see your Jazz are really surging.
Jersey Gil
February 22nd, 2010
4:47 pm
Lew: Cool, Ruben probably give you some VIP Box pass…that will be great…The Braves Play Saturday @ 3:30 Pm on May 8.
See ya…have to do some Taxes…
hit it high
February 22nd, 2010
4:48 pm
It’s too easy, he’s the Jey Hey Kid
Hillbilly
February 22nd, 2010
4:48 pm
Razorback Red, I don’t follow NBA much, but what’s up with our home state boy Ronnie Brewer getting traded from Utah? What were the circumstances behind that?
rammerjammer
February 22nd, 2010
4:51 pm
Yeah, it’ll be J-Hey all right. Can’t fight the ESPN Industrial Complex.
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
4:52 pm
Saw Shutter’s Island . It’s good but not great IMO. It has a payoff, but is a little long and a bit weak in the middle. Good flick though.
thinbreakness
February 22nd, 2010
4:55 pm
ncscoots-
Yeah, the guy who led the league in batting avg with RISP last year is a real joke, not to mention how much balance you have in the late innings against a bullpen going L-R-L-R
Hillbilly
February 22nd, 2010
4:55 pm
Nolie, I saw Shutter Island too, and thought the same thing as you. Not as good as The Departed but worth seeing. I’ll definitely watch it again when it comes out on DVD. LDC has become one of the best in the business.
NCmike
February 22nd, 2010
4:57 pm
“…but is a little long and a bit weak in the middle…”
That’s what she said!
Sorry too much Michael Scott
Chris from the Rock
February 22nd, 2010
5:00 pm
Heyman says the Braves are interested in bringing Loaf back …Ugh….
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
5:03 pm
Heyman says the Braves are interested in bringing Loaf back CHRIS
I can did it
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
5:05 pm
I heard that she said it was a little short & weak in the middle.Mike
LitiGator
February 22nd, 2010
5:05 pm
I think the the more immediate nickname concern is what Bobby is going to call him. “Jason Heyward” doesn’t lend itself to any obvious 2 syllable, ending in “y” names. He got around Francoeur with “Frenchy” but this might be toughe
unbelievable
February 22nd, 2010
5:14 pm
no way the Braves bring Loaf back
Jay212033
February 22nd, 2010
5:16 pm
Anderson as a LH bat off the bench why not?
David O'Brien
February 22nd, 2010
5:16 pm
Folks, I wouldn’t get too concerned about that Garret Anderson rumor.
Andrew in PA
February 22nd, 2010
5:17 pm
Dye=New Loaf
Daslied
February 22nd, 2010
5:18 pm
Can’t spell “Loaf” without LF. Are they adding a Hustle Coach?
Daybed Wagmoe
February 22nd, 2010
5:18 pm
Chris from the Rock — not to mince words, but Heyman’s tweet says, “Braves, Reds could be in mix for Garrett Anderson.” Sounds to me like speculation, and I’d say it’s one of those rumors that you probably don’t need to worry at all about coming true.
Daybed Wagmoe
February 22nd, 2010
5:19 pm
(Didn’t see DOB’s 5:16 post until I posted my 5:18 one)
dpelfrey
February 22nd, 2010
5:21 pm
N8…”The problem with most people hoping that he becomes a star is just that. Why pin all your hopes on him being a star?”
Because it’s fun!!!
JayDub
February 22nd, 2010
5:22 pm
Since Heyward is gargantuan … how about “The Garg”?
Home of the Braves
February 22nd, 2010
5:24 pm
I like Brasky. Or ‘Sonny. Bobby will probably end up going with Sonny. Or “Jay.”
Chris from the Rock
February 22nd, 2010
5:26 pm
Sorry, didn’t mean to sound like Chicken Little in regards to the Loaf rumor.
Mitchie-san
February 22nd, 2010
5:27 pm
Whoa….I passed out for a few minutes. Musta dozed off and had a nightmare that the Braves were interested in Loaf again….
LitiGator
February 22nd, 2010
5:28 pm
Recently re-watched the Frankenstein movie with Kenneth Branaugh. Sadly, not nearly as good as I remembered. Point is, DeNiro was credited as “the Creature.”
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
5:28 pm
ZEUS
Mitchie-san
February 22nd, 2010
5:29 pm
Heyward = “J-Pop”
Home of the Braves
February 22nd, 2010
5:30 pm
How about “The Warden”?
dpelfrey
February 22nd, 2010
5:31 pm
Also, N8, here’s a list of other highly anticipated top prospects since 1990…
Chipper Jones (1993)
Alex Rodriquez (1995)
Andruw Jones (1996-1997)
Vladimir Guerrero (#2 in 1997 behind Andruw)
Josh Beckett (2002)
Mark Teixiera (2003)
Joe Mauer (2004-2005)
I think all those guys have done pretty well, what do you think? So why not be excited about the possibilities. Otherwise you’re just Randy Quaid from Major League.
N8
February 22nd, 2010
5:33 pm
While Brasky is funny. “Ballgame” is growing on me. It would even make for some fun commercials for upcoming Braves games.
Imagine the scene. It shows the Dodgers players getting off the bus at Turner Field, all happy and excited. Cut to next scene in the visitors clubhouse and they’re still all happy, anticipating game time. Next scene is them walkin from the tunnel into the dugout where the lineup card is posted, and a couple players moan and groan, bowing their heads in disbelief.
Then it cuts to Heyward walking by their dugout with a bat on his shoulder, nodding with sarcasm, saying “That’s right boys”, and then it flips back to those same Dodgers players looking at eachother and simultaneously say: “BALLGAME!”
I love it. Count me in. That’s what I’m calling him from this day forward. Doesn’t mean much. I think I was in the group that tried to call Mike Gonzalez “Cobra” and that didn’t stick either. But for now, I’m sold.
Who’s with me?
pryguy
February 22nd, 2010
5:33 pm
DOB…
You either catch a little criticism or praise for your work here. I am surely appreciative for all that you do. Regardless of the fact that you are compensated, I feel as though you go above and beyond for us Braves fans. Can’t thank you enough for the endless amounts of blogging/information you provide. Keep it up brother.
Do you see it as a possibility of Schafer either winning a job out of ST or coming up mid-season to take over center and move Nate to LF? I know you have been asked before what his chances are, but just seeing if this remains possible despite having both the Melk-man and Matty D. Also, how has Melky looked since arriving? Has he fit in with the group? Coming from such a group of high profile players, I wonder how he will fit in…maybe Prado will be his boy?
Thanks again
tampabrave
February 22nd, 2010
5:36 pm
Someone earlier mentioned “H-Bomb” as a nickname. Well considering we have two Japanese players on the team…Not so sure about that one. Kinda liked “The Henry Heavyweight” myself.
MattyRoss
February 22nd, 2010
5:37 pm
I’ll throw my two cents in on the Heyward nickname. John Henry. Same initials. Huge dude swinging the hammer harder than any man or machine. No?
unbelievable
February 22nd, 2010
5:37 pm
Heyman is Boras’ whipping boy
tampabrave
February 22nd, 2010
5:37 pm
And on a different subject this is around the time in tampa where all the yankees are spotted all over town. Makes me sick personally. But I would advise you guys to google derek jeters house on Davis Island in South Tampa. Thing is MASSIVE.
MattyRoss
February 22nd, 2010
5:38 pm
also, tampabrave…I just laughed, a lot, at that H-bomb comment.
pryguy
February 22nd, 2010
5:40 pm
Damon is full of it. Boras continues to remind us that you can surely be successful in a profession by being a man of deceit and lies (professional athletes alike?). What a great country we live in.
keylargo
February 22nd, 2010
5:40 pm
From The Day the Earth Stood Still Jason “Gort” Heyward
pryguy
February 22nd, 2010
5:40 pm
Not to say I despise the USA….surely very proud of most that USA stands for….just those certain few…
N8
February 22nd, 2010
5:41 pm
dpelfrey Are you really trying to sell me on Heyward? I was ready to call him up last June. LOL!
I’m not neccesarily saying that 5 years from now Heyward won’t be a superstar. I expect him to be. But the two points I’m making are that no matter how good he WILL be, he’s not going to have that impact that soon, in all likelihood. Maybe he will. Who knows? But look at that list you gave me. Pretty much every one of those guys took 3-4 years to even remotely resemble the guys you’re talking about.
Is this blog going to still be patient with Jason Heyward in 2014 if he’s not putting up Pujols numbers? After all, the Braves choosing to go with him, might have cost us Johnny Damon? (eyes rolling).
The second point, is that if Heyward ends up being a consistant GG caliber outfielder, while only hitting around 25-35 HR for the next decade (not Pujols like), we shouldn’t be bummed that he didn’t break every record set by guys before him.
I just have the feeling that some bloggers are expecting him to drop 40 bombs this year and carry this team to October. Chipper Jones had 23 HR and 86 RBI as a rookie (hitting in the 3-hole with Fred McGriff and David Justice protecting him). Heyward likely will be at the bottom of the order with the Melky/Diaz platoon or the pitcher protecting him.
23 HR and 86 RBI would be an OUTSTANDING season, all things considered.
The Bravery
February 22nd, 2010
5:43 pm
How about “The manimal”
dogsbrekky
February 22nd, 2010
5:44 pm
Boras – I think it is easy and deceitful to consider the guy is just a scumbag… there is some major talent there and some sincere marketing/branding talent… he works for major mlb players and in 75% OF cases does a terrific job…
now if we look at mlb GM track records I would say 75% are not so good (Hendry etc)… so why keep busting Boras for being the BEST
BravePack12352
February 22nd, 2010
5:45 pm
The Beast
unbelievable
February 22nd, 2010
5:47 pm
if its true, Damon should have fired Boras for rejecting the 2/14 offer from the Yanks to possibly get them in on the bidding for Holliday. I wouldnt doubt that this is true
The Bravery
February 22nd, 2010
5:49 pm
He could one up Lincecum and be “The Freak Show”
N8
February 22nd, 2010
5:49 pm
dogsbrekky, everybody hates a scumbag…. until that scumbag is working for you. Then he’s appreciated.
Boras will keep doing what he’s doing until it stops working. The GM’s are the fools for falling for it. I congratulate Frank Wren for setting a price in his mind, and staying the hell out of it.
dogsbrekky
February 22nd, 2010
5:51 pm
N8 – exfrickin shactly it works until it don’t
Just Pat
February 22nd, 2010
5:52 pm
DOB
WHEW! Just checked in after a weekend with no computer and thanks, I guess, for giving me a whole day of Braves news and blogs. Of course, I’ve done nothing ELSE all day but, when you run your own office, who cares?
I went to each “blog-ette” too and just had to read those comments but will stick with the “big blog” in the future. Oh, I’ll read the other ones, will just skip the comments. Find these guys (the regulars) MUCH more entertaining.
dogsbrekky
February 22nd, 2010
5:53 pm
Frenchy is on sny tv now, says he will hit 27 hr
and bat 227 I say
Duke
February 22nd, 2010
5:54 pm
Seems like signing Salcedo could mean Escobar to the hot corner when Chipper hangs them up. Perfect timing in my opinion. Gives us time to evaluate him and decide if he will be our future SS.
Just Pat
February 22nd, 2010
5:55 pm
Since McLouth chose 24 as his number due to Bauer, will also root for him most enthusiastically to be the leadoff hitter that he’s probably capable of being this year after the “tweaking” with the contacts and resolving the legs issue.
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
5:55 pm
long term it will likely keep working forever. There will always be GMs/owners who are desperate to improve their teams
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
5:57 pm
Gives us time to evaluate him and decide if he will be our future SS.
he will likely grow out of shortstop within 3-4 years
bravofan
February 22nd, 2010
5:57 pm
I’m sorry did I see a picture on here of Chipper signing autographs was he sick this morning or something?
Just Pat
February 22nd, 2010
5:59 pm
nolie
But, like I told my daughter this weekend when she felt like her stepson was playing a “game” on them…..yeah, but sometimes the thing to do when the game isn’t being played “right” is to pick up your balls and go home…..and I think that was what Wren did on the Damon issue.
Just Pat
February 22nd, 2010
6:02 pm
bravofan
I’ve been to ST many times and seen Chipper signing autographs. The disgrntled fans are usually those in the back that he doesn’t have time to get to and they think he’s ignoring them.
Andy K.
February 22nd, 2010
6:04 pm
bravofan…he always signs in Spring…he signs less during the season, but I’ve never seen him not sign during spring.
Andy K.
February 22nd, 2010
6:07 pm
Just Pat, exactley, one time I was in a crowd for a Chipper autograph, and I was the last one he signed, and all the people in the far back end of the line were shouting at him, he turned around and shook his head, and said “Sorry, gotta go.” not to mention that if your polite, most guys will sign and be polite back.
Chris from the Rock
February 22nd, 2010
6:16 pm
I wonder what Boras has to do to drum up interest for his clients such as Chris Bootcheck.
SeATLite
February 22nd, 2010
6:22 pm
Give him #6 and call him The Beast.
Steve from OH
February 22nd, 2010
6:24 pm
How about “The manimal”
Yeah, and then he can play this song before every at-bat…
RHR
February 22nd, 2010
6:28 pm
Wait…there was a Loaf rumor!?
RHR
February 22nd, 2010
6:29 pm
Ballgame is my favorite so far. By a long shot.
JUST SAYIN'
February 22nd, 2010
6:29 pm
Lew, I read your offer to Jersey Gil and I just wanted to say you are one helluva guy. Glad to have run across you. There are not many like you these days.
Again, thanks for making my day.
Aleem
February 22nd, 2010
6:34 pm
Heymaker is the best I can come up with.
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
6:35 pm
..and I think that was what Wren did on the Damon issue. Just Pat
I don’t think so, it just went higher than he was interested in. I seriously doubt it had to do with anything other than that. Next time Boras has a client they are interested in Wren will deal with him again.
RHR
February 22nd, 2010
6:36 pm
Imagine the scene. It shows the Dodgers players getting off the bus at Turner Field, all happy and excited. Cut to next scene in the visitors clubhouse and they’re still all happy, anticipating game time. Next scene is them walkin from the tunnel into the dugout where the lineup card is posted, and a couple players moan and groan, bowing their heads in disbelief.
Then it cuts to Heyward walking by their dugout with a bat on his shoulder, nodding with sarcasm, saying “That’s right boys”, and then it flips back to those same Dodgers players looking at eachother and simultaneously say: “BALLGAME!”
Thats funny, except it wouldn’t be funny to the 4 million people watching who don’t know how funny the blog ballgame! comments are. And for the last bit change it to Heyward stepping up to the plate and this big shadow falls across the infield and the pitcher throws down his glove and runs away saying “ballgame!” … maybe do an old godzilla movie spin on it.
jeffrey d
February 22nd, 2010
6:36 pm
Is this still the main blog? I hate having to sift through 10 blogs to find everybody
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
6:39 pm
jeffrey
by Dave’s picture and under his name on the Braves page of AJC there is always the title of the current blog. just click on it.
Just Pat
February 22nd, 2010
6:39 pm
nolie
Sure he will…..until he feels like Boras isn’t “playing the game right”. If other GMs felt like they were being used to boost a player’s salary and refused to “play”, then Boras might have to stop the game.
RHR
February 22nd, 2010
6:40 pm
Frenchy is on sny tv now, says he will hit 27 hr
Seriously. What is wrong with him.
Just Pat
February 22nd, 2010
6:42 pm
jeffrey d
Like I said earlier, I’ll go READ the other “blog-ettes” because I appreciat DOB taking the time to do them, but I think the best “commenters” are the ones who post right here, so this is where I’ll spend the time.
Just Pat
February 22nd, 2010
6:45 pm
RHR
Hey, who knows? It’s the beginning of ST and everyone’s hopes are high….even Frenchy’s!
jeffrey d
February 22nd, 2010
6:45 pm
by Dave’s picture and under his name on the Braves page of AJC there is always the title of the current blog
I see…I just went to the sports page and clicked by his picture and I got a mini-blog. This is becoming like a Sudoku puzzle or hide-and-seek or something.
jeffrey d
February 22nd, 2010
6:46 pm
Is Johnny Damon’s wife real?
http://a323.yahoofs.com/ymg/ept_sports_mlb_experts__47/ept_sports_mlb_experts-180571128-1266847554.jpg?ymDNCuCDzLbDOtX_
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
6:46 pm
ain’t gonna happer PAT. Boras doesn’t do anything that other agents don’t do, he’s just more creative and thorough. He’s not cheating or doing anything illegal so there is no moral issue. If the GM’s get smart enough to drop out when the price reaches their realistic limit , that’s the control they will have. Scott has control of WAY too many great players to lose his standing. I don’t see that happening in real life.
jeffrey d
February 22nd, 2010
6:46 pm
She looks like a doll
Just Pat
February 22nd, 2010
6:47 pm
jeffrey d
As someone said the other day, if there are no song lyrics, it ain’t the REAL thing.
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
6:47 pm
yeah just bookmark the Braves page.
N8
February 22nd, 2010
6:47 pm
Oh. Sorry RHR. You still live in a world, where anybody outside of our little blog circle matters? LOL
But yeah, you’re right. Manny wouldn’t find it as funny.
I just think it’s gonna be fun when he comes up to bat the first time, and I type BALLGAME!
Besides, we could all use 2010 to transform the term “ballgame” into a positive.
But I love the godzilla theme. Again though, like H-Bomb. Saito and KK might not enjoy that too much.
In reality, my favorite “fox sports” commercial I’ve ever seen, had Johan Santana and Joe Nathan riding in a car together. Well, I’ll just post a link, rather than trying to explain it. Not nearly as funny as “Chicks dig the Longball”, but funny.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_7G3OtU6OkQ
jeffrey d
February 22nd, 2010
6:51 pm
I like that commercial…how come our Fox Sports commercials are a bunch of hillbillies saying “This is MY team! ….aheeyuck!” with inspirational orchestral music playing in the background?
Just Pat
February 22nd, 2010
6:51 pm
nolie
No, I’m not accusing him of doing anything illegal, immoral or of cheating. Am just saying that if the GMs drop out of his manufactured bidding wars, his clients may be less than impressed with what he can do for them. I have a feeling, although I don’t know this for sure, of course, that Damon is probably REAL sorry Boras talked him out of accepting the Yankees initial offer right about now.
SoWeGa Fanatic
February 22nd, 2010
6:53 pm
I don’t doubt Frenchy could hit 27 HR’s, but not playing 81 games in that park.
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
6:53 pm
we could use GORGO. it isn’t as common as Godzilla
RHR
February 22nd, 2010
6:55 pm
jeffrey – in that photo her face looks bloated/swollen, like she may be pregnant there, or maybe has been prescribed steroids for some reason or maybe had some work done on her face or some collagen injections and the swelling hadn’t gone down. thats not how she usually looks, as far as i’ve seen.
McFann
February 22nd, 2010
6:56 pm
jeffrey d I just went to the sports page and clicked by his picture and I got a mini-blog.
Those things are irritating…they’re infringing on our privacy!
They’re not even 1/4 as irritating as those idiots who want to put a cellphone tower 200 feet from the corner of our yard, but annoying nonetheless…
jeffrey d
February 22nd, 2010
6:56 pm
I believe you RHR. But in that picture it looks like he brought a wax figure with him so it wouldn’t look like he went to a game by himself.
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
6:57 pm
OK Pat, I guess we are pretty much agreeing. Problem is there are 30 teams and there always seems to be at least one really desperate operator. I mean just like Damon, why would Detroit go that high when they didn’t need to.
1/8 or 2/14? If Damon is as selfconfident as he comes across he is looking at it as a positive right now, a chance to do better next year .
SoWeGa Fanatic
February 22nd, 2010
6:58 pm
Boras ain’t so smart. He cost Damon $6 million and a year in the city he wanted to be in.
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
7:00 pm
whatever
Soph
February 22nd, 2010
7:01 pm
Folks, I wouldn’t get too concerned about that Garret Anderson rumor.
Concerned? I’m excited!
SoWeGa Fanatic
February 22nd, 2010
7:01 pm
2 years.
Mark
February 22nd, 2010
7:02 pm
The J-Hey Kid…
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
7:04 pm
So was I Soph
Just Pat
February 22nd, 2010
7:04 pm
nolie
Have no idea why Detroit upped the ante that much since they had to be aware (as most of us were) what the other teams were offering. I have a buddy who is a solid Detroit fan and is still ragging on me because we got both Smoltz and JJJ from Detroit. I’ve been begging him for the past two weeks to puhleeeeeeze take Johnny Damon (just to end the speculation) and….HE wasn’t all that gung-ho, either. IF Damon has a great year….and I have to bow to the more knowledgeable commenters here who are betting he won’t in that ballpark….and can command more next year, then *shrug* will look like Boras was a genius, right?
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
7:05 pm
Too bad he doesn’t have a brother playing too. We could have a pair of loaf-ers.
Andy K.
February 22nd, 2010
7:05 pm
Will 4 million differed be enough to get Loaf back?
(Sarcasm) Why would we need Loaf? Just another pick me up favor Heyman is doing for agents.
Just Pat
February 22nd, 2010
7:07 pm
nolie
now…..THAT’S funny! (loaf-ers)
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
7:09 pm
There is no question but that they misjudged the market in the beginning, but bounced back better than most thought they would.
Like Barnum said, “there’s one born every minute’. Unfortunately it only takes one every year to keep the string going.
ncgary
February 22nd, 2010
7:10 pm
has anyone else seen business insider report that citygroup starting on april 1 2010 requires 7 days advance notice before allowing a withdrawal from your checking account.
to me that stinks.if its my money why i got to give notice to get it
Soph
February 22nd, 2010
7:12 pm
ncgary -
http://www.ketknbc.com/news/citigroup-warns-customers-it-may-refuse-allow-withdrawals
SoWeGa Fanatic
February 22nd, 2010
7:15 pm
We keep talking of Heyward as can’t miss, and my mind drifts to Aundray Bruce. Gad, i have to stop that!
Couch Tater
February 22nd, 2010
7:15 pm
From Mark Topkin, TampaBay.com
Red tide: [Tampa]Equipment/home clubhouse manager Chris Westmoreland is looking a little red these days, the price of his favorite Florida Gators losing the SEC football title game to RHP Lance Cormier’s Alabama Crimson Tide. Westmoreland has to wear Alabama gear to and from the complex all spring, and his office will be decorated with an Alabama flag and a poster-sized photo of Tim Tebow crying on the sideline. Cormier is clearly enjoying the payoff: “Oh yeah, because he would’ve.”
ncgary
February 22nd, 2010
7:16 pm
sounds scary doesnt it
Prospects, Prospects, Prospects
February 22nd, 2010
7:19 pm
Just go ahead and ship the ROY trophy to Atlanta. Heyward is gonna win it! Hurry and find Heyward a permanent number so the Clubhouse Collection Catalog can start shipping the 82 million Heyward jerseys that will be demanded in quantities of at least 10 from each and every Atlanta Braves fan! The sooner we find out who the Braves opponent will be in the 2010 World Series, the better. Lots of folks will need to book travel and hotel arrangements to see Heyward and the Braves win the WS!
Wish I really cared enough to log or keep this particular blog. If Heyward falls on his face, you won’t be able to find a single person who admits to being among this giddy crowd of Polyannas who is certain that Heyward is gonna be the next AROD! Check that, not AROD but SURPASS Arod!.
unbelievable
February 22nd, 2010
7:19 pm
Frenchy wouldnt hit 27hrs in 324 games
Just Pat
February 22nd, 2010
7:20 pm
nolie
But, IF the “one” this year turns out to be a flop, will the “one” next year be quite as anxious to test the market? Unfortunately, the answer is probably yes because greed seems to know no boundaries.
jeffrey d
February 22nd, 2010
7:22 pm
Frenchy wouldnt hit 27hrs in 324 games
He’s already hit 29 in 162…
SoWeGa Fanatic
February 22nd, 2010
7:22 pm
Banks (at least for now) are a dime a dozen. My money would be out of Citi by lunch tomorrow . . . I don’t think my $13.64 would break them.
Prospects, Prospects, Prospects
February 22nd, 2010
7:23 pm
It’s obvious that I’m not sold on Heyward….. but I do have to vote for Mark’s nickname. It’s very original.
J-Hey kid is a great take off on Willie Mays nickname. Kudos to Mark!
Just Pat
February 22nd, 2010
7:23 pm
Prospects
Really enjoyed your first paragraph with all the giddiness but hafta totally agree with your second one.
SoWeGa Fanatic
February 22nd, 2010
7:25 pm
It amazes me the zeal with which some posters post, and then claim to have no interest their topic – dolts.
Soph
February 22nd, 2010
7:25 pm
He’s already hit 29 in 162…
I think you ruined his punchline.
Just Pat
February 22nd, 2010
7:25 pm
Prospects
but…..wouldn’t it be nice IF…….?
Gone Viral
February 22nd, 2010
7:25 pm
“I say we call him Vader.”
I love this as a wrestling reference more than a movie one.
I would also suggest Bane.
Gone Viral
February 22nd, 2010
7:26 pm
Or, for the first few years, Kid Vicious.
Prospects, Prospects, Prospects
February 22nd, 2010
7:27 pm
Pat…. I hope that all the excited masses are correct and Heyward is the monster they project him to be. Bottom line is I want to see the Braves win.
jeffrey d
February 22nd, 2010
7:28 pm
I think you ruined his punchline.
Just saying…people talk like Francoeur is the worst offensive player since Belliard, when he’s had 1.5 bad seasons compared to 3 good seasons
Just Pat
February 22nd, 2010
7:30 pm
It’s like I said earlier about Frenchy’s prediction…..it’s the beginning of ST and we ALL have our hopes up. Or, as baseball fans, we SHOULD.
N Nine (eta42)
February 22nd, 2010
7:31 pm
42 days! Just saying..
Anyone setting up the yahoo fantasy baseball again?
N8
February 22nd, 2010
7:32 pm
jeffrey d, I can’t speak for all bloggers, but for me my patience and respect for Francoeur went out the window when he pouted, cried and flat out bitched about them sending him down to the minors.
If you want to see how that should have been handled, check out the grace in which KJ handled it.
Jeff can still play. I just don’t want guys with that attitude playing for my favorite team. It was time to move on. I wish him well.
Just Pat
February 22nd, 2010
7:35 pm
N8
I couldn’t agree more and also wish him well. EXCEPT against US.
N Nine (eta42)
February 22nd, 2010
7:36 pm
Damn right N8 ^_^
Soph
February 22nd, 2010
7:38 pm
Yup, pretty much what N8 said at 7:32 for me too.
jeffrey d
February 22nd, 2010
7:41 pm
I really had no problem with Jeff’s comments when he was demoted. It sounded like he was just venting out some frustrations, but I think a lot of people blew it out of proportion.
But that’s just me.
Just Pat
February 22nd, 2010
7:45 pm
Time to head out to catch House and then 24. Y’all have fun but play nice.
Ease in Woodstock
February 22nd, 2010
7:48 pm
N Nine, I just sent you an email…same crew as last season…
CB
February 22nd, 2010
7:48 pm
jeffrey d, I think you are swimming against the tide on that one buddy.
jeffrey d
February 22nd, 2010
7:50 pm
CB – Yeah, I know I’m not gonna win that fight. I just think people wanted to see Francoeur as a crybaby, when he was really just a very frustrated young man.
jeffrey d
February 22nd, 2010
7:51 pm
N Nine, I just sent you an email…same crew as last season…
What??! Where’s my email?? I was the winner!
unbelievable
February 22nd, 2010
7:52 pm
“Just saying…people talk like Francoeur is the worst offensive player since Belliard, when he’s had 1.5 bad seasons compared to 3 good seasons.”
Frenchy had 232 games (2008 until the trade) where he was the worst everyday RF in baseball. He’s never had three good seasons, he’s had two good half seasons. 2005 with the Braves and 2009 with the Mets
Shane
February 22nd, 2010
7:53 pm
when he’s had 1.5 bad seasons compared to 3 good seasons
His “good” seasons arent as good as advertised
Shane
February 22nd, 2010
7:53 pm
You beat me to it unbelievable
N8
February 22nd, 2010
7:56 pm
Jeffrey d, I’m not going to argue with you, because you are probably right. He was frustrated. But I bet KJ was frustrated too.
He just handled it differently. I like a guy to be team first. EVERYTHING that KJ said upon his demotion showed me he cared about Bobby and the team and was going to work hard to improve himself. Jeff said his relationship with the Braves was broken or damaged or whatever reason he gave. Bush if you ask me, no matter how frustrated he was.
If he wants to use frustration as an excuse for yapping, then I guess all the bloggers aren’t out of line griping about him (or other players)…
… we’re just frustrated.
unbelievable
February 22nd, 2010
7:56 pm
jeffrey D – all I wanted to see from Francoeur was for him to acknowledge his struggles and accept his demotion. He shouldve known it was coming and to bad mouth the organization was just flat out wrong. He was never man enough to even apologize for his words or his actions. He felt like he was entitled to something when he hadnt earned anything yet. My employer would fire me on the spot
jeffrey d
February 22nd, 2010
8:02 pm
I’m not gonna whip open the Francoeur debate, I’m just saying he’s not as awful as he’s made out to be.
Ease in Woodstock
February 22nd, 2010
8:04 pm
jeffery d, your league filled up too quick, or I was in…Email DAP if you want in…
KC
February 22nd, 2010
8:07 pm
Reading Chipper’s recent comments, it reminds me… There are two types of leaders. I’ll use NBA coaches who have won several rings in the past decade as an example.
First, you have the Phil Jackson type. He wants his players a little cocky. He’ll show them on a white board at the start of the playoffs how many wins they need to win the whole thing. He’s taken public jabs at opponents and put down other teams. He likes to play head games.
Then you have Greg Popovich. He wants his players grounded at all times. If anyone dares THINK about a game beyond the next game on the schedule, he’ll smack them. He praises other teams, and undersells his own team. No head games. No nonsense.
Chipper is cut from the latter mold. He doesn’t hype much. Some people hear him say stuff like “This team has questions”, and they incorrectly take it as a lack of confidence in his own team. That’s not it. That’s just him. He’s always erring on the side of caution and humility. He’s the down to earth, keep the team humble kind of guy.
SoWeGa Fanatic
February 22nd, 2010
8:08 pm
So shoot me, I still like Francoeur. He was hyped as much or more than Heyward before he was called up, and gave the Braves a lift in 2005. He then struggled and failed (probably for the first time in his life), fans(?) jumped on him badly, he let it into his psyche, and he didn’t handle it too well. Who would?
Danga
February 22nd, 2010
8:09 pm
I think he is every bit as awful as he is made out to be. That last season and a half in Atlanta were among the least productive seasons in the Majors. Even in his productive years were not nearly as productive as they appeared due to his total inability to get on base. Any perceived under-rating going now is just payback for how over-rated he was before.
toga party
February 22nd, 2010
8:12 pm
Why in the heck are we re-hashing Francoeur? Let the Mets blogs debate him.
If you want a Francoeur fix, go back and read the blogs from last spring training. You can bone up on all the positive changes in his hitting approach, or how he deserves to win his arbitration case.
Smitty
February 22nd, 2010
8:17 pm
Andrew in PA: hey srry for taking so ling to respond…I play on ESPN the league name is ATL BRAVOS if you give me your email I can send you an invite that is if you can’t find it the draft is Friday around 3 or so…if anyone else wants to join feel free it’s a public league so just join the league
jeffrey d
February 22nd, 2010
8:19 pm
Even in his productive years were not nearly as productive as they appeared due to his total inability to get on base
In 2006, JF had 83 runs scored and 103 RBIs.
In 2007, JF had 84 runs scored and 105 RBIs.
Both of those would have been 2nd on the team in 2009. If you hate JF for sucking in his final days at Atlanta, fine. If you hate him for being upset about his demotion, that’s fine too. But at least acknowledge that he has talent and he’s shown it in Atlanta for 2 and a half years.
reagan
February 22nd, 2010
8:20 pm
Just saying (your 3:23 post).my sister was flight attendant for 35 years. Ran the DC to LA and back route for many years….lots of hollywood and politicians. Asked who was the nicest celebrity she ever had on a flight was…….. she didn’t hesitate for one second…………….Red Skeleton!
SoWeGa Fanatic
February 22nd, 2010
8:21 pm
Ditto, jd.
MattyRoss
February 22nd, 2010
8:21 pm
Ballgame is way too close to Teddy Ballgame for it to be available. Getting a little ahead of ourselves on that one. I do like it, though.
CVan
February 22nd, 2010
8:26 pm
We got enough on here for a fantasy baseball league, or do you guys already have one established?
Heath
February 22nd, 2010
8:30 pm
Got home and Netflix movies waiting for me. So…either “The Invention of Lying” or “Law Abiding Citizen”
Any thoughts?
Heath
February 22nd, 2010
8:33 pm
Also…any cool app recommendations for my new iphone?
bravofan
February 22nd, 2010
8:35 pm
cvan: they do it is already full just tried to do it
Smitty
February 22nd, 2010
8:35 pm
CVan…you can jump in mine its on ESPN league name is ATL BRAVOS its a public league so just join it you wont need a password
Smitty
February 22nd, 2010
8:36 pm
bravofan: I tried getting in that one earlier to and got the same result so you can jump in mine on ESPN league name is ATL BRAVOS
bravofan
February 22nd, 2010
8:37 pm
smitty can I?
bravofan
February 22nd, 2010
8:37 pm
sorry and AWESOME!!
bravofan
February 22nd, 2010
8:39 pm
smitty i typed it in the search and couldnt find it
Danga
February 22nd, 2010
8:41 pm
jeffrey d
I acknowledge that he had those numbers, but my guess is if you put a league average outfielder in the same spot he puts up better numbers. In case you failed to notice, Jeff F was on the 2009 team and he did not put up those numbers. On a side note, I think it is a great thing he turned down that contract offer we made him and that he stopped performing when he did. If he had kept putting up those tempting total numbers the Braves would have felt a lot of pressure to sign him to a big contract.
GboroBravo
February 22nd, 2010
8:42 pm
Heath I would say The Invention of Lying if you like Ricky Geravis, Law Abiding Citizen was a bit of a let down for me.
Smitty
February 22nd, 2010
8:43 pm
Whats your e-mail I’ll send you an invite
bravofan
February 22nd, 2010
8:45 pm
lrbpowerbreak@yahoo.com
Gone Viral
February 22nd, 2010
8:48 pm
“people talk like Francoeur is the worst offensive player since Belliard”
It’s probably because of that pesky stat about him having the worst OBP of any corner OF in MLB history. People be fickle like that.
Smitty
February 22nd, 2010
8:48 pm
Alrighty check your e-mail it should be in there…if its not keep checking it took a few minutes for my brother to get his
Gone Viral
February 22nd, 2010
8:50 pm
“So…either “The Invention of Lying” or “Law Abiding Citizen”
I was pleasantly surprised by the latter while the former was largely better in concept than execution. Caveat: Ricky Gervais’ appeal escapes me. Then again, I’m not much of a King Leonidas fan, either, but he impressed me in LAC.
bravofan
February 22nd, 2010
8:53 pm
smity: what happens if i cant make the draft will it auto pick becuase I dont get out of school until 3:30
Smitty
February 22nd, 2010
8:54 pm
Andrew in PA: not sure if you saw my reply but it seems as though your going to have to give me your e-mail address and I’ll send you an invite because the league is not coming up in the search
Smitty
February 22nd, 2010
8:56 pm
I can move it to later in the evening if that suits better…what time would you like it to be? I’m available pretty much all night friday
bravofan
February 22nd, 2010
8:58 pm
I’m usually home by 4 in the afternoon my parents are just not consistent I should be home then
Smitty
February 22nd, 2010
9:01 pm
Alright I’m gonna make it 5 just to be safe…that cool?
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
9:05 pm
But at least acknowledge that he has talent and he’s shown it in Atlanta for 2 and a half years. jeffrey
well like they say rs and rbi are not good metrics to judge individual players by. so quoting them isn’t gonna impress those who think he was lame. His OBP & his OPS pretty much stunk for a corner outfielder and that has always been the bash on him. some believe one way some another, but there is unlikely to be a meeting of the minds cause the core tenets are so different.
Smitty
February 22nd, 2010
9:08 pm
Hey nolie do you wanna join the fantasy league?
jeffrey d
February 22nd, 2010
9:11 pm
Even the stat snobs have to admit that Runs and RBIs are at least somewhat accurate in determining a player’s value. I don’t see how you can call a 100+ RBI season bad just because his JORB+ is 72.
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
9:12 pm
I don’t think so Smitty, but thanks for asking. just never liked it all that much and now that I have the time I just don’t have the inclination. Good luck with your league though.
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
9:14 pm
no they don’t jeffrey, nor do they. they are very dependent on the lineup and where you hit in it. Stats guys in general do not believe that clutch hitting is a repeatable skill since the larger the sample grows the closer it usually drifts toward the career mean.
GovClintonTyree
February 22nd, 2010
9:14 pm
SoWeGa: Bang.
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
9:16 pm
the thinking is that a guy with a better OPS would have driven in more most times. It’s not like they play with one less man if Jeff ain’t in there. now I’m not arguing which is right, I’m just stating how the thought process goes.
jeffrey d
February 22nd, 2010
9:18 pm
Alright, I’m dropping it. I stand by my belief, but this argument won’t go anywhere.
David O'Brien
February 22nd, 2010
9:22 pm
NEW BLOGGAGE
SoWeGa Fanatic
February 22nd, 2010
9:22 pm
Guv, I knew that was coming.
GovClintonTyree
February 22nd, 2010
9:22 pm
Here’s what Chipper has in mind:
McLouth .280/.370/.480 23/80/110Runs/30SB
Prado .310/.380/.480 22/90/110
CJones .310/.410/.540 25/110/110
Glaus .270/.360/.540 32/120/100
McCann .300/.380/.520 27/100/80/15 SB
Escobar .310/.380/.470 19/90/100
Heyward .290/.370/.480 23/80/80
Diaz .310/.370/.480 15/60/60
Cabrera .270/.350/.400 10/50/50
Hinske .270/.350/.450 10/50/50
Infante .300/.360/.440 8/40/40
Ross .260/.340/.500 8/40/40
MJones .260/.340/.500 10/40/40
See? They’re comin’ out smokin’. And no major injuries.
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
9:22 pm
which is what I said to begin with. It’s two lines of belief that are not gonna ever agree on a guy like Jeffy
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
9:23 pm
and I wasn’t arguing
nolie
February 22nd, 2010
9:25 pm
where? where? I can’t find it. It’s all so complicated.
Ease in Woodstock
February 22nd, 2010
9:26 pm
Smitty, I would like to join…if you have room.
ease19@earthlink.net
Eric from MO
February 22nd, 2010
9:30 pm
Jeffrey D how in the hell do you consider a season with an OBP under .300 a good season? That is pathetic, and your trying to make it out to be a good season because he had a bunch of rbis which only means the players in front him were doing good.
Smitty
February 22nd, 2010
9:53 pm
Ease in Woodstock: hey I sent you an email if you’ve got anyone else that would like to join let me know and give me their email address and ill send them an invite