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4,652 comments Add your comment
DS1
November 9th, 2010
3:27 am
How hard is it for folks to understand that almost every time you play the FA game for top talent, you overpay.
What in the Braves org’s moves would make ANYBODY believe they were planning to overpay for a LF’er?
Crawford and Werth are fine players, but certainly not worth the bounty they will get for a budget conscious team like the Braves.
If we were going to overpay for a LF’er, we would have made a play for Holliday last year.
nolie
November 9th, 2010
3:27 am
nolie on the war path… Lolly
yeah I am. I hate it when some jerk jumps in at the end of a conversation among others and claims to know what was meant without reading all the posts. Just looking for trouble, no other reason to misrepresent what was said.
There are a couple of folks here who love to take one fine point that really is a very small part of what is said and ignore all the other statements and act like it means what ever they want it to mean. Either that or it’s the same guy with different names. Either way it is an unfair way to behave. I strongly dislike it when anybody distorts the meaning of what I say anywhere? Don’t you?
I’m just old and sick enough not to have the patience I should with it maybe.
N8
November 9th, 2010
3:27 am
DOB at 3:00 am….
Here’s my thought on Pat “the bat” Burrell.
I think Wren should (and likely will) caution against making moves that would have made a difference simply in 2010. In hindsight, having Burrell’s bat in LF would have been huge for the 2010 club. After all, his defense likely wouldn’t have done any more harm than what was already out there.
2010 is over. I think the move for a LF has to be bigger and bolder if the desired result is to have a massive impact in 2011. Yet, I would “settle” (as a fan), for a lesser impact bat, if the overall game of said new LF was more rounded and better than a guy like Burrell.
I don’t have any guys off the top of my head. But ultimately, getting somebody similar to what Wren thought he was getting in McLouth. That being solid defense, overall above average speed (don’t really care about SB – but just some quickness and athletic ability), with a little pop, a good glove and an above average arm.
If that seems like it’s asking a lot in this market. Perhaps it is. But there has to be a younger player out there, under control that isn’t in the “superstar” category, or highly touted prospect category that’s going to cost a ton of prospects and/or money.
Somebody similar to a Michael Tucker type of player. I don’t like the idea of having a guy like Burrell out there and automatically having to replace him in the late innings for defense. Most nights that won’t come back to haunt, but some nights (extra innings games) it might.
If we’re going to add a guy like Burrell, then I’d just prefer that Wren find a really good platoon partner for Diaz or perhaps two new guys to platoon out there. I mean, if Burrell is an option, then why not a guy like Andruw, that wouldn’t need to be replaced in the late innings? If given the same amount of AB over 162 games, I can’t imagine that Andruw would provide any less power. Even at the Ted.
In 373 AB last year, Burrell hit 20 HR, had 65 RBI, & batted .252/.348/.469/.817 and he just turned 34, and made 9 million dollars last year.
In 238 AB last year, Andruw hit 19 HR, had 48 RBI (and stole 9 bases), he will turn 34 in April, and batted .230/.341/.486/.827 and he only made 3.7 million last year (meaning he’d probably come cheaper than Burrell) and is familiar with the Braves. Obviously, even with his lost range, he’s a better defender in LF than Burrell would be.
This isn’t a pledge for Andruw. We’ve been down that. But to say that Burrell is an “option” with the assumption going in that he’d need to be regularly replaced defensively late in a game, and to say that Andruw is NOT an option is silly at best.
They’re pretty much the same hitter at this point of their careers, one will be considerably cheaper than the other and that same one can actually play defense. How in the world is Burrell a viable option while people scoff at Andruw in LF?
Either would provide high risk (lots of K’s) and semi high reward (around 20 or so HR), and would likely be as equally frustrating at times at the plate.
Even if the dollar amounts would be equal between the two, for defense alone (I imagine, Andruw could still play CF in a pinch), Andruw is the better choice between the two.
Now, that might be equal to saying you’d prefer the chocolate covered turd over the turd dipped in caramel. Neither is an ideal choice for a snack. But you get the point…..
ward
November 9th, 2010
3:31 am
how many times has diaz played a full year compared to jeter? jeter wins diaz zip. waive him, and forget the platoon garbage.i’m not a liberial. i’m a repubican, and a braves fan since 1983. Go!!! Braves!!!!
nolie
November 9th, 2010
3:31 am
you can’t pick a hitter for one good year, ward
Diaz has had three very good years and was hurt some in the 2 years that were mediocre. Definitely not picking on one year.
DS1
November 9th, 2010
3:32 am
I can hear the wailing and gnashing of teeth in June of next year, when Matt Diaz is OPS’ing at around .850 for the Padres and helping to keep them in first place.
Then it will be “dang that FW for letting such a good hitter go!”
Let’s keep Matty around. Sign him for 2 years at 5 million total. If we end up getting better to man LF, then deal him around June/July to a pretender/contender.
ward
November 9th, 2010
3:35 am
yeah sure…… blame the injuries on his poor playing. his day’s are done. there are better players than him out there. Go!!!! Braves!!! well i gotta to go. you guy’s be cool out there. great chatting……
DS1
November 9th, 2010
3:35 am
ward
Where is the Diaz/Jeter comparison coming from anyway? Diaz has never been a full-time player. But he is one heckuva hitter against lefties for his career, and as nolie states, has had 3 incredible years in Atlanta out of 5 total. And in the two years that he didn’t hit well were years he spent some time injured. Sure looks like the kinda guy we can’t use around ATL, huh.
DS1
November 9th, 2010
3:38 am
nolie and N8, it’s time to call it a day. You’d think that lousy excuse for a GM we have would pull a rabbit out of the hat so we could have something to argue about, huh.
And I have been a Braves fan AND a conservative since WAY the heck before 1983, but I am not sure what that has to do about anything anyway……….
1983: My first son was born! A very good year. My 401K did fairly well in those days, as I remember! Boy does the time fly…..
nolie
November 9th, 2010
3:39 am
They’re pretty much the same hitter at this point of their careers, N8
not that I can see they aren’t. other than homers Pat’s production is better than Druws even with the home park advantage that Jones had last year.and I really don’t think more HR pop makes up at all.
I agree that Wren is unlikely to get somebody just because they would have made a difference last year. Of course almost anybody would have.
I think Pat and Druw are being mentioned because a lot of folks are afraid that nothing better our way will come. A little early to feel that too strongly IMO. Neither will likely be here, but if one is I think it more likely to be Burrell unless Druw agrees to a really low sign. Let’s hope for better than either.
nolie
November 9th, 2010
3:40 am
what does Diaz have to do with Jeter? Please???
nolie
November 9th, 2010
3:41 am
night DS1. c ya
DS1
November 9th, 2010
3:43 am
I was wrong about Burrell last spring. But after watching him strike out so much in the World Serious, I’d have to say no thanks.
And let’s just remember Andruw for the good times, and not try to breath life back into that dead horse.
N8
November 9th, 2010
3:43 am
“Let’s hope for better than either.”
Amen.
N8
November 9th, 2010
3:45 am
“And let’s just remember Andruw for the good times, and not try to breath life back into that dead horse.”
Not trying to breath life into anything. Simply saying that if given the choice, I’d choose Andruw for his defense. Period. Nothing more. Nothing less.
ward
November 9th, 2010
3:46 am
before i go, i just don’t wan’t to see another year with diaz at the plate. especially if he’s going down hill. that would be another wasted year in left field. sometimes ist’s hard to let a player go, but if he free falls another year, is it woth it in the long run? You guy’s have good one. Go!!! Brtaves!!!!
DS1
November 9th, 2010
3:47 am
nolie
Don’t let these idjiots get to ya. (imagine me offering that advice to you!!)
I have enjoyed my blogging experience much more since I became “Da Sensitive One”
I still think I’d prefer a platoon of Diaz and Hermida/Hawpe/Hinske/Damon/fill in a LH LF’er over Burrell or Andruw.
DS1
November 9th, 2010
3:51 am
ward
I could be wrong, but I don’t see Fredi sticking with a guy like Diaz for too long if he ain’t hitting against lefties.
Folks seem to forget 2009 quickly when considering Diaz.
N8
Nothing personal against Andruw, but I just don’t want to see that striking out on balls a half a foot wide of the plate. I think he has lost a step on defense (if not 2-3 steps).
Personally, I’d rather suffer through a youngster who can go get the ball. Maybe they’d be teachable.
Just sayin’
nolie
November 9th, 2010
3:51 am
he’s not the defender that he once was by any means, but he would be better than Pat. I just detest BAs under 250, putting a 220 or 230 hitter in the middle of a lineup is a real drag if you have ever spent an entire year or more watching such flailing around I can’t imagine you wouldn’t have felt the same frustration. And given the last 4 years and the parks he played in the last two, I think it very likely that he would hit 230 or less here.
I agree with you Wayne and said it here a few times, I’d rather save my very fond memories of Druw.than watch his struggle and read his getting ripped here most every day. JMO
DS1
November 9th, 2010
3:52 am
It’s going to be a real interesting winter, four shore!
Nite folks………
nolie
November 9th, 2010
3:52 am
on that note I will allow you to retire
ward
November 9th, 2010
3:53 am
nolie: i was just making a point.if diaz was good he would not be a platoon out fielder. thats all. heah… you have a good one. Go!!! Braves!!!!!
nolie
November 9th, 2010
4:11 am
night ward
Frank from KS (now living in CO)
November 9th, 2010
4:37 am
Nolie – If people want to talk about bad trades (ie: the Tex trade) let’s talk about the trade that sent Adam LaRoche to the Pirates.
*ugh*
richard nieh
November 9th, 2010
4:53 am
Man, you mentioned so many names that it is impossible for Frank to pull a surprise on us now. Give him some room
.
Jake
November 9th, 2010
5:38 am
HOLY S****!!!!Get ELSBURY,KEMP and Dan Ugla.Ohh and convice chipper to retire.Also,Resign D-Lee
1.Ellsbury
2.Prado
3.Kemp
4.Heyward
5.Mccan
6.Lee
7.Gonzalez
8.Infante
9.Hudson
Jake
November 9th, 2010
5:39 am
My Bad
HOLY S****!!!!Get ELSBURY,KEMP and Dan Ugla.Ohh and convice chipper to retire.Also,Resign D-Lee
1.Ellsbury
2.Prado
3.Kemp
4.Heyward
5.Mccan
6.Lee
7.Gonzalez
8.UGGLA
9.Hudson
TommyP
November 9th, 2010
6:14 am
Kemp will be dealt because of the ownership/divorce problems in LA. However, he’s nearing a huge payday so I’m not sure the Braves give up tons of young talent for that kind of potential huge contract/past attitude.
IF the Braves give up some of those young pitching studs on the farm, it would have to be for a Rasmus. Cheap for several years, super stud talent in the OF.
Crawford isn’t coming, Werth isn’t coming…I honestly can’t see Burrell coming. Aren’t we supposed to be shoring up our porous defense, not adding to the problems? (I know we’re looking for hitting but we have to get better in the field)
Bubba Joe
November 9th, 2010
6:16 am
The Braves don’t need another strikeout artist like Burrell. Get someone who can get the bat on the ball.
reson
November 9th, 2010
6:27 am
Wren, has not done a very good job as GM traded for a bunch of waste-up players,. Wile trading away very good young players who can out produce these older players. How can one say Wren is good as GM, by getting rid of future super players.
Eric from MO
November 9th, 2010
6:46 am
Who has Wren traded away?
Dnice
November 9th, 2010
7:01 am
Forgot all the talk above I say you spend your money on 2 OF’s. Those 2 would be Crawford for LF and Andruw for CF. That way you gained power, defense, and speed three things we lacked. Adding Burrell or Mags just excacerbates the issues from last year as that was the difference in SF winning the WS and us losing in the DIvision round.
Andruw would come at a discount and then you would also have Nate as your backup for all three OF spots to go along with Hinske for LF, RF, 1B. Adding Millwood wouldnt be such a bad deal for the backend of the rotation but please dont rush Teheran or overuse your bullpen like Bobby did with Venters last year.
We should explore a trade for a defensive minded SS though because Gonzo did not do it for me as he had more errors than Escobar with far inferior range.
Homey Spuconi
November 9th, 2010
7:33 am
It looks like the Braves have some options in the OF after all…
We want Crawford or Werth but will likely get Burrell or Berkman. Its status quo with these penny-pinching Braves. Its amazing that ownership is billionaires while they operate the Braves on a restricted budget. Nobody’s asking them to get the Yankees type payroll with all-stars at every position. But geez please Louise why not at least have a competitive team and allow Wren to get a top free agent OF this offseason ?
I hear they are offering hot dogs 3 for a $1 at the Varsity on Saturdays… Liberty Media will be in line feeding all their employees that day…
Homey Spuconi
November 9th, 2010
7:36 am
Jake’s retarded so ecuse him. Uggla hitting 8th ? He’s a 3,4,or 5 slot hitter.
jeffrey d
November 9th, 2010
7:37 am
Get ELSBURY,KEMP and Dan Ugla.Ohh and convice chipper to retire.Also,Resign D-Lee
That easy, eh?
Homey Spuconi
November 9th, 2010
7:38 am
McLouth can’t hit or play defense. He’s useless.
jeffrey d
November 9th, 2010
7:39 am
Its amazing that ownership is billionaires while they operate the Braves on a restricted budget.
I can kind of understand their reasoning. They’re already spending around $90 million a year on the team. If they increase payroll $10 million, then they’re probably not going to see an extra $10 million in results. Given Atlanta’s middle-of-the-road attendance, I think $90 million is pretty good.
Allen
November 9th, 2010
7:46 am
Walking Dead. Good show. Filmed in Atlanta = must watch. May even see Mike Hampton walk by.
richbrave
November 9th, 2010
7:58 am
reson
November 9th, 2010
6:27 am
Wren, has not done a very good job as GM traded for a bunch of waste-up players,. Wile trading away very good young players who can out produce these older players. How can one say Wren is good as GM, by getting rid of future super players.
Beyond stupid.
Reid Adair
November 9th, 2010
8:05 am
Given Frank Wren’s horrific history of player moves, the “unexpected” would be a move that actually helped the team for an entire season or longer. I see very little to make me believe that’s possible.
richbrave
November 9th, 2010
8:07 am
FALL BALL
DOMINICAN
DIORY HERNANDEZ 0-3, .325 BA.
MAURO ‘45′ GOMEZ 0-1, 1 R, 2 RBI, 1 BB, .313 BA
DogTheMan
November 9th, 2010
8:08 am
Why are we even speculating the Braves will acquire anything even remotely productive. Every year we gone into camp with retreads and hope they pan out. Liberty Media keep us stuck in the Middle. I don’t even think they have been to a game. Third or fourth place next year. And we will ne having the same conversation next winter!!!! FIND AA NEW OWNER!!!!!!!!
richbrave
November 9th, 2010
8:09 am
Reid Adair
November 9th, 2010
8:05 am
Given Frank Wren’s horrific history of player moves, the “unexpected” would be a move that actually helped the team for an entire season or longer. I see very little to make me believe that’s possible.
There are none so blind as those who will not see.
richbrave
November 9th, 2010
8:10 am
DogTheMan
November 9th, 2010
8:08 am
Why are we even speculating the Braves will acquire anything even remotely productive. Every year we gone into camp with retreads and hope they pan out. Liberty Media keep us stuck in the Middle. I don’t even think they have been to a game. Third or fourth place next year. And we will ne having the same conversation next winter!!!! FIND AA NEW OWNER!!!!!!!!
Now that I WILL agree with. Don’t put it on FRANK WREN.
td523
November 9th, 2010
8:15 am
I hear Jordan Schafer is 100% healthy!
DoninTococca/78
November 9th, 2010
8:25 am
Yeah, whatever…
brownbag
November 9th, 2010
8:30 am
why did tiffani amber thiesen gain 50 pounds between the end of the saved by the bell and 90210?
wright_714
November 9th, 2010
8:33 am
Well done Allen…..Even as a zombie, Mike Hampton would be on the flesh eating psychopath DL.
Alex
November 9th, 2010
8:34 am
DOB, a question that I can’t seem to get answered: Why did the Braves not pick up Cody Ross off waivers last year? (We’d tried to trade for him and were desperate for RH hitting OF help)
All_Seeing_Eye
November 9th, 2010
8:36 am
What DOB is really trying to say is: No longer will the Braves be hampered by selecting only Bobby Cox type players. Imagine if you will, the Braves can actually grab the best available player within their budget without Cox pulling out his veto card.
Wait. You mean to tell me Cox has been handicapping this team for decades?
why did tiffani amber thiesen gain 50 pounds between the end of the saved by the bell and 90210?
Some of those pounds can be attributed to her phony hardware.
Dadgum.....
November 9th, 2010
8:39 am
Richbrave….. Call him Wren the Chameleon. Not a great GM ( nothing in his past assures us he will be great) not a bad GM. To date I will give him lucky GM at best. Sometimes lucky is better than good but after a while luck runs out. This off season will make Wren work harder and faster than ever before. We are about to see what type of GM that Wren actually is. Put it this way, we can’t afford a team of Ankiel, Lee, Glaus, Diaz, McLouth, Cabrera type of players. Tired of being a refuge for the resurrection of careers. Wren has his work cut out for him and I would have a hard time betting the line in Vegas that he will get what he is looking for. Hope so just not confident.
Lance
November 9th, 2010
8:44 am
Damn… I’m too tired to write after reading that. I felt like I just got home from work and the wife kept rambling on and on…..
Moe Berg
November 9th, 2010
8:46 am
“DOB, a question that I can’t seem to get answered: Why did the Braves not pick up Cody Ross off waivers last year? (We’d tried to trade for him and were desperate for RH hitting OF help)”
At the time of waivers, the Braves had one of the best records in the NL, making them along the last in priority for waiver claims. SF’s record was worse and they claimed Ross off of waivers. He was never available to the Braves on waivers.
Kashi
November 9th, 2010
8:52 am
I CONSIDER SIGNING JAVY VAZQUEZ OR KEVING MILWOOD. WITH A LITTLE IMPROVE DEFENSE AND SOLIDING PITCHING WILL TAKE US TO ANOTHER RUN OF PLAY OFF. Giants beat Phillies and Rangers with their pitching….. Lowe, Hudson, Hanson, Javy/Kevin, Beachy/forgot name will be a goood rotation.
jtylerpate
November 9th, 2010
8:52 am
Moe..
Braves would not have been able to claim Ross. Goes to team with the worse record.
jtylerpate
November 9th, 2010
8:53 am
Sorry Moe…didn’t read. Need coffee.
Felix Millan
November 9th, 2010
8:54 am
great new blog DOB!!! Love the Hot Stove!!
Anders
November 9th, 2010
8:55 am
Look at DOB firing off the warning flares regarding my Mets in the old blog. (BTW- He ran those same thoughts past me yesterday when we were chatting on the blog. I didn’t realize I was vetting out the next blog. Do I get editor credits? {: )
Anyway, Braves Nation doesn’t have Omar Minaya to kick around anymore. Times they are a changing.
bring back blauser
November 9th, 2010
9:03 am
i truly believe we have the real deal here now jordan shaefer in center field he is ready for the big time now nate mcclouth in left 2011 comeback player of the year those 2 along with heyward gives us the fastest outfield in baseball win the way of the cardinals speed and a little power
Mutts
November 9th, 2010
9:05 am
Wren will no doubt strengthen the Braves for the 2011 season. His moves prior to the 2010 season got us back into the playoffs, so all the bugwits that criticize him need to get lives. With the pitching this team has, we need an offense that can score between 4-5 runs per game and we will be a playoff contender in 2011. I don’t think we need to break the bank on free agents nor should we trade away too much young talent. I am confident Wren knows what he’s doing and will find a good balance while also upgrading the roster.
jtylerpate
November 9th, 2010
9:08 am
I feel like Wren will do what he can this winter to help the Braves contend again in 2011. You know that he’ll want to make sure the transition from Cox to F-Rod goes smoothly in order to keep fans in the seats.
I’m thinking a trade for Rasmus for Dunn, Minor/Beachy and Viscaino will be made and they will sign Burrell or Maggs. That will be about it with maybe a move for a seasoned arm in the bullpen (Mayhay etc).
2011 will be better than this past magical year.
Prado
Rasmus
Heyward
Burrell
McCann
Chipper
Freddie
Gonzalez
Rotation:
Huddy
Hanson
Lowe
JJ
Beachy/Minor (one not dealt)
Bench:
Hinske
Mathers
Infante
Conrad
McClouth
Ross
Bullpen:
Moylan
O’Flar
Cristhian Martinez
Unnamed Mayhay type Veteran
Venters
Kimbrel
That’s your team that will contend.
Jeff R
November 9th, 2010
9:10 am
I’m intrigued with Upton. He may be gettable at a price far more reasonable than some of the other outfielders mentioned in DOB’s blog.
Upton’s only 25 and has excellent speed and solid power potential. The key is does Wren rate Upton as a player with the capacity to mature, focus, and do the hard work needed to lift his game to the next level? Or, should I say, does Upton have the stuff to lift his game higher?
Could a players’ manager like Fredi Gonzalez help Upton grow up? What influence would Heyward have on Upton? Heyward’s a smart, poised youngster who takes the game seriously and works hard.
richbrave
November 9th, 2010
9:16 am
“………..Put it this way, we can’t afford a team of Ankiel, Lee, Glaus, Diaz, McLouth, Cabrera type of players……….. ” DADGUM
Actually that’s what we CAN afford, neighbor. And that’s why FRANK has gotten them. Don’t fool yourself into thinking WREN’s a schlep. How many rumors have floated around him after his shakedown cruise was over in ‘08, and he got the lay of the landscape? All I’ve heard coming from the BRAVES front office since regarding trade rumors are crickets The guy’s a quick study in my book, and would give us a WS championship if he had a 125 million budget, something I’ve been harping on since I first arrived here in ‘07.
Jeff R
November 9th, 2010
9:18 am
Jacoby Ellsbury is always interesting, though he lacks Upton’s versatility. Given an injury season, his price tag might reasonable, too. Speed is certainly a dimension of the game the Braves lack, and have lacked, since Furcal moved on.
Wren doesn’t need to sign retreads like Ordonez or Burrell. The Bravos don’t need to add age to the lineup.
Anders
November 9th, 2010
9:22 am
Nows the time for the Braves to make their move. The pitchings in place. Hudson and Lowe are near their respective ends of their careers so the Braves have to go now. Time to move some pieces from the minor league talent vault for some majot league parts.
The Phillies look like they may be ready to start slipping a bit (assuming they don’t sign Lee). The Mets are busy rebuilding their entire organization. The division certainly is within reach for the Braves if they add a couple of key pieces. Gonna cost $’s or prospects. I expect they’ll use the latter and a touch of the former.
Time to see if Wren can finish the job.
bring back blauser
November 9th, 2010
9:22 am
i like this lineup
lf mcclouth
2b prado
3b jones
rf heyward
c mccann
ss gonzalez
cf shaeffer
1b freeman
bench
diaz
infante
ross
mather
conrad
hinske
speed in the lineup will increase the power input if you get mcclouth and shaeffer on base they will not pitch around the big guns therefore more runs more power more wins more respect
we have a winner here now
save the money and look later for someone to replace chipper when he is done
Jeff R
November 9th, 2010
9:25 am
From everything I’ve read, it’s the Braves’ front office more than the suits at Liberty Media that have kept the team payroll from rising significantly.
I’m sure there are smart, internal reasons not to push the team payroll higher fast. Might be that if the payroll climbed too high too fast, if Liberty then called for budget cuts, Wren and company would have to make a lot of unpleasant and hard choices in terms of personnel. Perhaps the go slower approach is smarter in the long haul.
Having said that, yeah, $125 million payroll would give Wren plenty of latitude to build a winner.
DC Brave
November 9th, 2010
9:28 am
What a great blog to kick off the hot stove. I just want to go on the record as being firmly in the Ellsbury camp because I believe having him at the top of the lineup will make Prado even better. Our 5th and 6th infielder situation is getting interesting. However it plays out…I hope we’ll start off the first 5 games with Chipper, AGon, Prado, and Freeman in the lineup…and then right away start rotating in Omar and whoever #6 is on a daily basis at one of those spots. We’ve got to keep them horses fresh a litte longer this time around.
The Braves seem to be just one or two players away…so c’mon Frank Wren.
ncscoots
November 9th, 2010
9:29 am
Jeff, a good write on Upton at fangraphs:
http://www.fangraphs.com/fantasy/index.php/assessing-b-j-upton/
As for Elssbury, Epstein in on record as definitively saying that Ellsbury will not be traded. Now, he could be dissembling, of course, but I expect that he would have used different language were that the case.
RC
November 9th, 2010
9:30 am
Even though I’d love to see Werth or Crawford in Turner Field next year, I’d prefer that the team spend a little bit more money on the draft. The Braves have a pretty long history of making “signability” picks, and have done decently well with that strategy. However, there have also been plenty of times that they’ve passed on elite talents to ensure they get guys for cheaper. It would be nice to see them get some top shelf talent in the draft this year.
richbrave
November 9th, 2010
9:33 am
“………….Wren will no doubt strengthen the Braves for the 2011 season. His moves prior to the 2010 season got us back into the playoffs, so all the bugwits that criticize him need to get lives. With the pitching this team has,………..” Mutts
Yes to the first part. BUT, a big one, we’ve ragged around the edges of that pitching equation. O’FLAHERTY seeing straight again, comes immediately to mind. MEDS return from ‘TOMMY JOHN’ for another. We’ve got to fill his hole in the line-up, and JJ is questionable at best. A huge hole where SAITO was, and a crater at the end of the pen. And not the least of the problematic, will the young guys hold up and pan out? MINOR, BEACHY, VENTERS and KIMBRELL instead of vets. I dunno,’ so seein’ is believin’ to my mind. Talk to me at the end of 2011.
Down on the farm, just HOW good are future ML’ers JULIO TEHREN, RANDELL DELGADO, ARODYS VIZCAINO, STEVE MAREK, CORY GEARRIN and BRETT BUTTS? And will HOOVER, GUSTAFSON, CORDIER, COFIELD and ORTEGANO become real ML pitchers in the future?
So I’m not quite as smug about our pitching in 2011 as you. Call me DOUBTING THOMAS at this point.
don
November 9th, 2010
9:33 am
If Wren makes a move that turns out to be positive for the team, it will, indeed, be a surprise. I just hope he doesn’t make more boneheaded moves. That, in and of itself, would be a pleasant surprise.
JohnS
November 9th, 2010
9:34 am
Someone to look at if he is not tendered a contract would be Ryan Ludwick. He made 5.45 million last year and probably will be offered a contract, but with San Diego’s limited payroll it is at least a possibility he might be available.
Venice Jim
November 9th, 2010
9:35 am
richbrave – see that the Tribe moved up to #1 in one of the polls? Looks like we’re still on QB #4 this coming week up in Harrisonburg…
stew
November 9th, 2010
9:42 am
How about Braun in left and Upton or Rasmus in center? It can get done with giving up something and not giving up the farm. We’ve got six pitchers for the rotation and four starters on the farm. We only need 5 starters. Plus we can throw some position players like Infante, Gonzo et al. It can get done. Go for the real answer not band aids.
ncscoots
November 9th, 2010
9:48 am
How about Braun in left and Upton or Rasmus in center? It can get done with giving up something and not giving up the farm.
I imagine the only thing that would be left on the farm from those couple of trades would be the coaches, LOL.
Jeff R
November 9th, 2010
9:53 am
ncscoots… it was a good write up on Upton, thanks.
Point well taken on Ellsbury, but as you said, who knows if Epstein will hold to not entertaining offers for deals, especially if the Bosox nab Werth or Crawford. Having said that, I’d much rather Wren make a play for Upton.
Blair
November 9th, 2010
9:56 am
What about Wren pulling Adam Jones out of his hat. Young, cheap, solid centerfielder with good power and strong defense. Considering the O’s always need pitching, I wonder what it would take. Just a thought.
Eric in Tampa
November 9th, 2010
9:59 am
Jeff R- I wouldn’t count on BJ being available for Atlanta. The Rays would need a ML OFer in return (unless Desmond Jennings and Zobrist are their answers and I don’t think they are). The Rays do stack young pitching so I’m sure we could match up there, but my guess is Tampa would want Freeman and a pitching prospect for Upton.
He’s a tremendous talent, and I would probrably benefit from a scene change, but this guy’s just waiting to get paid and I believe eventually you would have another Freddie-HR2 moment.
Efrim
November 9th, 2010
10:03 am
The Phillies look like they may be ready to start slipping a bit (assuming they don’t sign Lee). The Mets are busy rebuilding their entire organization.
I still think the Phillies have 2-3 years as being the NL’s best. Just because the Giants beat them in a seven game series doesn’t mean they are a better team. I still love Colorado in the NL West next year as long as they get a pitcher to pair with Ubaldo. Greinke makes tons of sense for them.
Efrim
November 9th, 2010
10:06 am
I’m still for the acquisition of Bossman Junior. He’s got to be motivated and willing to listen to people, something that he has wavered on during his tenure in TB. I’ve read stuff about Justin Upton not listening to the coaching staff in Zona too. A shame, really. Both of them have so much talent.
bring back blauser
November 9th, 2010
10:07 am
if any moves to be made go for renteria good backup infielder who could fill in nicely for chipper when he goes down again
Jack
November 9th, 2010
10:11 am
Thanks for a great blog post. Keep feeding us Braves junkies. Can’t say much in favor for the music you like. Just not my style. I’ve gotten into Texas country. It’s southern rock-n-roll with a little country flavor. My favorite bands right now are Ely Young Band, Cross Candaian Ragweed and Macon’s own Jason Aldean fits into this mold on some of his non-Nashville (we have a hokie, crappy music and lyrics formula that an artist must follow to be on mainstream country music stations) cuts that are heavy on guitars and drums.
Hillbillybrave
November 9th, 2010
10:12 am
DOB Laughed my arse off at the proof read post! Going to Helen Ga. this weekend any good Q over there?
jtylerpate
November 9th, 2010
10:13 am
BBB- What do you do with Infante?
bring back blauser
November 9th, 2010
10:16 am
infante plays everyday different positions 9 players as starters
Eric in Tampa
November 9th, 2010
10:17 am
Having read many comments and being in Tampa, I have an anti-Burrell bias, so it’s great to see people not wanting him.
Here’s what the strategy is for spring- count on Chipper to come back and produce, Prado and McCann to continue current success, count on Heyward to continue to improve, hope Freeman is productive rookie in the 7-hole, and of course sign a veteran “professional hitter” cheap and hope you found a diamond in the rough. Then count on pitching to benthe strength again. That’s the typical Braves model and unless we can afford to make a big splash in the FA market – and they won’t – this is what our team will be like in 2011. Now, maybe in 2012 when Chipper and Lowe’s big (over paying?) contracts expire..
Sweet Old Buck
November 9th, 2010
10:19 am
Why isn’t Austin Kearns on the list? Thinking that Rasmus is available for less than a king’s ransom is laughable. Kearns is a free agent and would not require giving up young talent. Plus, he should be affordable.
bill
November 9th, 2010
10:23 am
i think McClouth has something wrong we are not aware of and he will not return to his old form or he might be the reincarnation of Ken Oberkfel and just not play worth a crap under pressure or as a go to guy in a pennant race. he looked slower than he ever looked in Pittsburgh
@WreckBuZZ
November 9th, 2010
10:24 am
I made the suggestion to DOB about the Braves potentially signing Lance Berkman. Not that DOB would not have thought of it himself, but I suggested the possibility he could play LF. Berkman played a lot of OF in his career, and a lot of CF. So he had the skill at some point, and despite all the hubbub about defense being so important, I don’t think any of Brooks Conrad’s critical blunders happened in LF. So I don’t believe having Berkman in LF for 7 or 8 innings (5-6 days a week) would kill the Braves defensively. But the potential of his bat would be great.
I mean DOB is putting Pat Burrell forth as an option, you can’t tell me Burrell is any better with the glove than Berkman. So why not go for the better offensive talent? With that thought in mind, why not go for Adam Dunn and put him in LF? He’d be more dangerous defensively at 1B, and he says he hates the DH, so he’s looking for some NL team to bring him in. Why not the Braves? The guy hits 40 HR and 120 RBI falling out of bed. He wouldn’t cost the same as Jayson Werth or Carl Crawford, but he’d produce more than either one. And you could use the aforementioned defensive replacement late in games to make sure you don’t give it away with an error.
raleighbravefan
November 9th, 2010
10:28 am
Wren has improved this team every year, in spite of salary constraints. Many of you have unreasonable expectations. You live in a fantasy baseball world, and you must think every other GM is a moron, who would accept your mostly absurd, lopsided offers. I just don’t understand the hate for Wren, who I think is doing an admirable job, under the circumstances.
TDub
November 9th, 2010
10:29 am
Still blows me away that we were thisclose to beating the Giants in the NLDS. If Prado hadn’t been injured and Conrad had played off the bench, we probably would have gotten to the NLCS. From there, with Wagner healthy, who knows. That said, I don’t think we need to go into Yankees Fantasy Baseball team mode to craft a winner. A strong LF and some depth will get us there.
richbrave
November 9th, 2010
10:38 am
Venice Jim
November 9th, 2010
9:35 am
richbrave – see that the Tribe moved up to #1 in one of the polls? Looks like we’re still on QB #4 this coming week up in Harrisonburg…
I did and cut you a post on it yesterday. Good luck.
DAP
November 9th, 2010
10:39 am
sweet old buck Why isn’t Austin Kearns on the list?.
because of these .263/.351/.395/.746.
thats his slash line for last season and the years before that look even worse. kearns’ power has gone bye bye. you dont get away with slugging under .400 unless you OBP closer to .400 and steal bases.
richbrave
November 9th, 2010
10:39 am
Sweet Old Buck
November 9th, 2010
10:19 am
Why isn’t Austin Kearns on the list? Thinking that Rasmus is available for less than a king’s ransom is laughable. Kearns is a free agent and would not require giving up young talent. Plus, he should be affordable.
Great. How good is he?
richbrave
November 9th, 2010
10:40 am
raleighbravefan
November 9th, 2010
10:28 am
Wren has improved this team every year, in spite of salary constraints. Many of you have unreasonable expectations. You live in a fantasy baseball world, and you must think every other GM is a moron, who would accept your mostly absurd, lopsided offers. I just don’t understand the hate for Wren, who I think is doing an admirable job, under the circumstances.
Roger that!
Ray Cougar
November 9th, 2010
10:43 am
Anyone else think that Wren looks like a younger, hipper Bobby Cox? Is that a good thing?
richbrave
November 9th, 2010
10:43 am
don
November 9th, 2010
9:33 am
If Wren makes a move that turns out to be positive for the team, it will, indeed, be a surprise. I just hope he doesn’t make more boneheaded moves. That, in and of itself, would be a pleasant surprise.
.Don, come on man.
DAP
November 9th, 2010
10:47 am
anyone have thoughts on juan uribe? its hot stove, so just thinking out loud here, but the guy plays 3 infield positions, could play 2nd with prado moving to LF, and take over SS next season when gonzalez’s contract is up. he leaves alot to be desired as a hitter, but he is capable of having a good year and basically a lock to hit 20 homers in a full season.
bring back blauser
November 9th, 2010
10:47 am
richbrave
you are absolutely correct
go with what you have
build from there
wren has done a great job got the nucleas for a great young team
use shaeffer and look for mcclouth to make a helluva comeback
sign renteria to replace chipper when he goes down again
utilize infante in the spot that made him an allstar and play him on a regular basis
great bullpen
good young team with a mixture of veterans
save the money and go for replacements for chipper and lowe when they are finished