Prado tells Wren he’s good with move to left field
ORLANDO — Already plenty antsy from nearly seven weeks of medical-mandated rest, Martin Prado had a position switch and the trade of a friend added to his things-to-think-about list Tuesday.
The All-Star second baseman, recovering from a season-ending torn oblique muscle and hip pointer, was told Tuesday he’d be moving to left field after the Braves traded for second baseman Dan Uggla.
The Braves traded reliever Mike Dunn and infielder Omar Infante — Prado’s close friend and Venezuelan countryman — to the Marlins for Uggla.
General manager Frank Wren told Prado the news about the trade and position swithc, and that he would play third if Chipper Jones has setbacks in his return from knee surgery or needs time off.
“I talked to him last night,” Wren said. “He said, ‘I just want to be a part of this team. I want to contribute. I don’t care where I play.’”
Prado was a utility infielder before displacing second baseman Kelly Johnson during the 2009 season. Prado has played left field frequently in past winter-ball seasons in Venezuela.
He’s expected to be cleared to resume workouts in December, and Wren said Prado should be at full strength for spring training.
Schafer, Young are backup options in CF
Having releasd Rick Ankiel and traded Infante, the Braves are left without a backup to center fielder Nate McLouth.
Wren said it could be Jordan Schafer, who finally seems healthy after missing parts of two seasons recovering from a fractured wrist, or Matt Young, 27, a plucky infielder/outfielder who could compete for a spot after six full seasons in the minors.
“He can play everywhere,” Wren said of Young, listed generously at 5 feet 8. “He’s a good baseball player. He’s strong. He drives the ball. He can do a lot of things. We saw it in spring training – every time we put him in there, he did something to help our club. And he’s down in winter ball and is one of the best players in Mexico right now.
“You’ve got to give a guy credit who continues to work on his craft, and just continues to do everything he can possibly do to get to the big leagues. I think if a lot more players took the approach he did, there’d be more guys in line to make big-league teams.”
Wren said the Braves might also add a bench player with center-field experience. Having already made their big move in a trade for Dan Uggla, Wren and his assistants look to strengthen the depth of the bullpen and the bench.
They might re-sign outfielder/pinch-hitter Eric Hinske, but it seems less likely that Matt Diaz is in the plans now with Prado moving to left field.
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224 comments Add your comment
Billy
November 17th, 2010
6:36 pm
I wish the season started tomorrow!!!
shawn
November 17th, 2010
6:43 pm
Thanks DOB…….excited about Dan Uggle joining the Bravo…….Go Braves.
brian
November 17th, 2010
6:48 pm
Dave-
You are the best in the business. I’m a big fan of your music picks as well. Great move by Wren. Trading Infante at his all time high in value was great, and I would rather have Venters and O’Flarety than Dunn. Let’s see the Braves get a little team speed and we can be in good shape. The defense still seems a little shoddy, hopefully we can overcome that.
Mike S
November 17th, 2010
6:53 pm
How about a platoon of McClouth / Andruw Jones in CF? If Jones would sign for $1M. Hopefully each could hit .250 with 25 HR or so between them.
Weaseal
November 17th, 2010
6:59 pm
Nice to have so much Braves news to talk about come on spring training -Made plans to go to the home opener today!!
MPIMENTEL
November 17th, 2010
7:04 pm
have uggla in our every day lineup it´s a big big plus…but I´m thinking now about our cf position , nate could rebound or could’nt, bring jacoby e. to the braves nation, they (bosox) will be looking for a catcher, send them a minor league catch prospect and jj for jacoby and a veteran reliver… and we will have a young and talented team
Kat
November 17th, 2010
7:12 pm
Thanks for getting Prado’s thoughts on the trade.
GOP Cannon
November 17th, 2010
7:15 pm
The Uggla move was a masterpiece… we REALLY got the better end of this deal. We have the big right handed bat in the middle of the lineup that we desperately needed without giving up any of our priced pitching prospects.
With few good OF options via free agency, this really was one of Wrens best moves.
NORRIS
November 17th, 2010
7:18 pm
If chipper is out and Prado has to go to third then we are stuck with no outfield again.
If we dont get an outfielder who can start then someone is just stupid.
Podsednik is out there!!
Stevo DeG
November 17th, 2010
7:20 pm
I’m just hoping Prado gets healthy all around. Don’t forget that in addition to his hip pointer and torn oblique, he had to hobble around on two bum knees…
Ben Thinken
November 17th, 2010
7:23 pm
It looks like the regular hype on a minor leaguer based on Wrens description of him. I wonder why he’s been stuck in the minors for 6 seasons if he’s so good.
I like the Uggla trade but Infante, Diaz, and possibly Hinski will be missed. I liked all three of them.
So much hinges on Chipper’s ability to come back, and at his age it’s doubtful. I hope Fredi can git’er done.
WTF??
November 17th, 2010
7:32 pm
This was a Bad Trade, we gave up mike dunn and omar infante for this guy
muffin
November 17th, 2010
7:33 pm
wren has been in bed with schafer for 5 years now! Give it up
NORRIS
November 17th, 2010
7:39 pm
@wtf
are you crazy. infante was a utility guy and dunn was a nobody who blew it for us in the playoffs. We got a steal!
Bravefaninok
November 17th, 2010
7:42 pm
Bold prediction for 2011…..Jordan Shafer has a monster spring training,but gets sent to AAA to get regular AB’s.
If Nate struggles JS will be starting CF by june 15th,If Nate produces he gets traded at the deadline and JS takes over .
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WTF??
November 17th, 2010
7:43 pm
Just like the braves to trade for a 30 year old player on the decline, just like derek lee
Bobby's Cox
November 17th, 2010
7:44 pm
I’m sure Prado is happy that Infante gets to start in Florida. Infante deserves it.
And what a team player Prado is. If we told him we needed him to pitch, he’d be starting tomorrow in Venezuela.
Jeff
November 17th, 2010
7:45 pm
Wren deserves credit for making a very good move selling high on Infante in sending him and Dunn for Dan Uggla. This trade helps make up for the bad Esco trade where Wren really sold low instead of wisely waiting till this off-season, Though I’m guessing part of selling low on Esco was due to Cox misunderstanding and obviously disliking him. Esco’s lack of speaking English hurt him in that regard, IMHO. To sum it up, great move Frank, lets keep it up, still work to be done!
That said, it’s past time, IMHO, that they gave him a shot. He could’ve helped our playoff drive this past Sept./Oct. But instead Melky and co. continued to kill us, probably as much or more on defense as offense. Young could do average on defense and little or almost nothing offensively and still be an upgrade to Melky, etc.
Bobby's Cox
November 17th, 2010
7:46 pm
Steve DeG,
Prado didn’t have two bum knees. That was Glaus.
Prado just had a sore hamstring, which has gotten some rest due to mandated rest for the hip pointer and torn oblique.
garynpOH
November 17th, 2010
7:50 pm
really if we got Pujols for KK some would man and groan
Bobby's Cox
November 17th, 2010
7:52 pm
WTF?…..
Uggla is much younger than D Lee. That was a lame statement. Lee is 5 years older and it is still debatable whether he is on the decline or was just suffering from a sore wrist last season.
In fact, D Lee had his best season ever at the age of 30. 30 is the major league veteran’s prime age. Uggla’s OBP keeps getting better and better which is a strong indication that his plate discipline is getting better with age. Uggla has been extremely consistent in his power totals. There’s no suggestion whatsoever that Uggla will take an Andruw Jones-like mystery downturn at the young age of 30 especially when he gets to play half of his games at the stadium in which he’s had he most success in his career.
You’re insane dude…
Jeff
November 17th, 2010
7:56 pm
BTW, the recent trade speculation regarding Prado by some Brave fans is stupid. Prado is a huge part of the heart and soul of the Braves, anyone that cannot see this is blind. It’s also ignorant that Prado won’t do fine in leftfield, I’ve seen him play there and he looked better than most recent leftfielders for the Braves, including Anderson, Melky, Hinske, Diaz, and McLouth this past season. Prado should do fine in leftfield, and he’s a major upgrade for us out there.
PS: I also echo what others have said about Infante, sorry to see him go but we got great value for him, IMHO. It’s also good for Infante that he’s now a starter, he deserves to start after this past season and that was unlikely to happen here barring injuries.
NORRIS
November 17th, 2010
7:57 pm
@wtf
are you crazy? on the decline? You must be outside your mind.
WTF??
November 17th, 2010
8:02 pm
@ Bobby Cox and Norris
Just because you two liked the trade, does that mean everyone else should also? Why insult me because I don’t like the trade, everybody is entitled to their own opinion. Leave the immature comments off the blog
Jeff
November 17th, 2010
8:03 pm
Oops, I was referring to Matt Young earlier when I stated: “That said, it’s past time, IMHO, that they gave him a shot. He could’ve helped our playoff drive this past Sept./Oct. But instead Melky and co. continued to kill us, probably as much or more on defense as offense. Young could do average on defense and little or almost nothing offensively and still be an upgrade to Melky, etc.” It seems I mistakenly backspaced out his name. Yea, I can type, really I can, lol.
Jeff
November 17th, 2010
8:08 pm
I cannot help but laugh when someone posting as “WTF??” tells others “Leave the immature comments off the blog”…
shawn
November 17th, 2010
8:11 pm
@WTF,
Dude, you are an idiot please leave this blog and get a shrink
Jeff
November 17th, 2010
8:11 pm
Norris: If winning the Silver Slugger award is a player on decline, can we have another player coming off such a season?
WTF??
November 17th, 2010
8:14 pm
@Shawn
Get a life
Los Bravos
November 17th, 2010
8:22 pm
Hate to lose Infante but we got what we needed in return. I think we can compete with the best of the NL next season as long as we stay healthy. I think McClouth is gonna have a decent year. We need to resign Hinske.
Ken Stallings
November 17th, 2010
8:25 pm
I think the Braves have filled the holes they needed to fill. It would not surprise me that the off-season moves are over.
Prado is more than servicable in left field. And I think it is time to see if Jordan Schaefer is ready for the team again. Two years ago before he broke his hand and kept it secret, he was playing very well. Now that he is recovered fully, he might blossom into the surprise player of the upcoming season.
In addition, perhaps McClouth will recover from his season-long funk from last year and retore his game to levels before that which were actually quite good.
And Roodge Owns
November 17th, 2010
8:26 pm
WTF, I hope you’re a sophisticated troll. Because there has rarely been a larger agreement among baseball people than the agreement that the Braves got a great deal here. A power right handed bat without losing any pitching. This is too-good-to-be-true territory.
shawn
November 17th, 2010
8:27 pm
@Ken Stallings,
A great point we need to give JS another shot..
NORRIS
November 17th, 2010
8:28 pm
braves still dont have an outfield???? prado will go to third if chipper dont come back and play third when he is out. so you have two spots empty in the outfield.
shawn
November 17th, 2010
8:31 pm
@Norris,
We can not just write off Chipper yet. He is owed $28 mil for the next two years and need to wait and see how he is going to respond in spring training.
cheshire
November 17th, 2010
8:38 pm
I still don’t understand why we’re talking about finding a backup for Nate McLouth when we should be talking about finding a replacement for Nate McLouth. You can not afford to have such a terrible player taking up a spot in your lineup, regardless of how much you’re paying him.
You don’t have to get an all-star… just someone who belongs in the major leagues and can manage not to make a complete joke of himself. PLEASE don’t make me endure another season of this guy. We made a mistake in getting him – it’s time to just swallow our pride (and wasted $$) and move on.
NORRIS
November 17th, 2010
8:41 pm
Im not writing chipper off. Im just thinking logically. Mclouth was optioned to the minors last year and now we are thinking he is our center fielder. Chipper even if he comes back wont play everyday.
So, if he is out then who plays left and who plays center. You cant stick two nobodys out there and expect to win. You could use mclouth as a fill in if that happens. But you got to go get a center fielder who can start everyday.
Kerry
November 17th, 2010
8:41 pm
We want Andruw Jones!!
cheshire
November 17th, 2010
8:41 pm
WTF – i’m not gonna call you names, but i’m dying to know why you think Uggla is on the decline? His numbers say the exact opposite.
cheshire
November 17th, 2010
8:46 pm
Norris, i totally agree with you. Setting this roster under the assumption that Chipper Jones is going to come back, be productive, and last even half the season without getting injured is VERY dangerous. And if he does get hurt again and we don’t make another move for an outfielder, then this team will not have gotten that much better. We’ll still be a team with 2 solid infielders (Prado/Uggla instead of Prado/Infante) and two outfield positions being manned by 4th outfielders (or in the case of McLouth, a minor league outfielder).
In order for this Uggla move to have a big impact, Chipper Jones either has to come back and be a productive player all season, or we need to get another outfielder… not an all-star, just a serviceable outfielder.
jimmymack
November 17th, 2010
8:57 pm
get a cf who bat’s leadoff who run’s well and hit’ for average wow what a team
Rilo
November 17th, 2010
9:01 pm
BOY….Baseball sure keeps players humble. Guys like Prado make me love it even more. He’d play for groceries. That’s why Baseball is the best sport ever!!
In Fredi I Trust
November 17th, 2010
9:01 pm
In all honesty, and I love the guy and what he has done for this team in his career, but I wish Chipper would just retire and stop holding this team back. With his salary, the Braves could afford to not only extend Uggla, but also go out and get another threat or two. He needs to call it a career and stop handcuffing this team.
Bobby's Cox
November 17th, 2010
9:02 pm
WTF??
If you don’t like the trade that’s one thing, but to make irrational reasonings as to why, like comparing Uggla to a declining D Lee, is ludicrous.
Personally, I would rather have gotten one of Kemp, Young, Upton but if you’re in Wren’s shoes, you can’t pass up that opportunity to land Uggla at such a cheap price, especially a guy like Uggla who has many times said how much he liked the Braves, lives relatively close to Atlanta, and would most likely re-sign with the club…
joedub
November 17th, 2010
9:06 pm
Nitram Odarp is my favorite player on this team. I’ll be rocking a #14 next season.
The man – “Move to left field, bro” Prado – “No problem, bro. I’ll play wherever you want me to and be good at it.
Heyward in the 2 hole again, for me.
Chopdawg
November 17th, 2010
9:07 pm
“I talked to him last night,” Wren said. “He said, ‘I just want to be a part of this team. I want to contribute. I don’t care where I play.’”–hope that’s really Prado talking, & not just Wren saying what he wants Prado to say.
Only thing I don’t like about this trade is moving an All-Star away from his natural position.
Coach (2011 Fredi G. a Go!)
November 17th, 2010
9:08 pm
Great for the offense and devastating for the defense. I cannot believe the poor judgment being exercised on the part of Frank Wren. He already knows the Braves are a poor fielding team and just became even worse with the stone hands of Uggla at 2B.
Great pitching and the long ball combined with poor defense and no running game, equals another wild card contender with a quick post season exit if they even make it that far.
chris
November 17th, 2010
9:10 pm
i love the move to get uggla, but i think the braves would be the world series favorite if they could get chipper to retire, play uggla at second, prado at third, mcclouth in left, and go get B.J. Upton to play center, he has great speed which we need, could bat lead off and when right can hit for a pretty good avg, i think a change of scenery could help him
Nuzzy Futz
November 17th, 2010
9:22 pm
First off I loved the trade, I think it was a great value and just what we needed. I believe like the rest of you that a lot depends on chipper’s recovery but also the continued development of Heyward. I see a shift in this team coming with McCann, Heyward and Uggla leading this team. I also believe Joe Mather will be a very serviceable utility guy and he does have some pop in his bat as well.
William in Pasadena
November 17th, 2010
9:25 pm
I was not going to blog this offseason, but I couldn’t resist because I so strongly agree with “In Fredi I Trust”. I have been saying it for a few years. Chipper is the Braves problem. Every year we are on hold after he gets hurt and sits out 25 to 40% of the season with a huge salary. That money could go to a Kemp or Upton or partly to Crawford (coupled with KK’s money). He has the paroll clogged up (constipated) and his production is not worth the money. Not to mention his lousy defense.
Jeff
November 17th, 2010
9:34 pm
Coach: I’m hoping Wren gets Clint Barmes to backup second and shortstop. He’s a nontender candidate and hit 23 homers a season ago. He’s also a plus defender at both second and shortstop. He’s also a better shortstop defensively than Alex Gonzalez, at least at this stage. Gonzalez was better when he was younger. I’m not saying he’s bad now, just not as good as he use to be (and certainly not as good as Esco), IMHO. To sum it up, Barmes would be an ideal replacement for Uggla in the late innings, when we have a lead and it’s a close game. That would be the way I’d do it anyway. I really like Barmes defense at second and shortstop, he has good range at both positions, he can also play third base too.
Don't touch my JUNK!
November 17th, 2010
9:40 pm
Go after Bill Hall..damn look at the man, he can hit and play 6 positions. Had 18 homers in 127 ab..he is for real and a Free Agent. Better than Diaz and lots more power than Omar.Olney on espn said he was best utility player out there. SIGN Hall………
iopbrave
November 17th, 2010
9:49 pm
great trade too bad we could not have made it a couple of months ago- hinske would give us a power backup in left and possibly 3rd- i think if mclouth can’t get it done in the spring then make a move- andruw is okay with me as a platoon w/ nate
Heyward Man Crush
November 17th, 2010
9:54 pm
Bring back Jeff Francouer!!!!
Low ball
November 17th, 2010
10:03 pm
Just say no to Frenchy, A Jones and any other X-Brave. Even put Schafer in that group.
JuneBaby
November 17th, 2010
10:03 pm
The eternally oprimistic Braves fans! A slow team, that plays inferior defense just got even slower. No base stealers, only two or three doubles hitters, much less triples, and most of the home runs will be one run homers, Odibe Young again!!!
Cecil Upshaw was the MAN
November 17th, 2010
10:06 pm
garyinpOH, if we got Pujols for KK, LaRussa would be strung up, and yes someone here would complain. Prado is the ultimate team guy, and I say we will miss Infante. I know Uggla will hit well, but it seems strange to have an All Star second baseman and trade for a second baseman and send the all star to the outfield. I know Prado has played it regularly in winter ball, it still seems strange. Finally, to those clamoring for Andruw or Frenchy…are you nuts???
GloryDays
November 17th, 2010
10:11 pm
DOB, is Uggla even an option to play left field? Many have mentioned the possibility. Is it?
I like your blogs man, I tried 2 of others for one of yours any day. Not dissing them, you’re just good at this.
Just Wanna Say
November 17th, 2010
10:21 pm
please get a center fielder. We cant rely on Mclousy anymore. There has to be someone cheap, and we have enough prospects to not kill our farm.
Bravefaninok
November 17th, 2010
10:24 pm
Chopdawg
November 17th, 2010
9:07 pm
“I talked to him last night,” Wren said. “He said, ‘I just want to be a part of this team. I want to contribute. I don’t care where I play.’”–hope that’s really Prado talking, & not just Wren saying what he wants Prado to say.
Only thing I don’t like about this trade is moving an All-Star away from his natural position.
It was just his position last year because he took it from KJ in 09.Marteen can play LF as well or better than any player the braves have run out there in the last 3 yrs.
Dirty Harry
November 17th, 2010
10:31 pm
Can we stop with the platoon talk please?
Dirty Harry
November 17th, 2010
10:31 pm
and Prado’s natural position is….everywhere. He’s gonna be fine.
Navigator
November 17th, 2010
10:36 pm
I like picking up Uggla, but I hate giving up Infante. Dang he played a great second base and hit extremely well. I see this picking up more power, and nothing else, plus Infante played in the outfield very well. I hope in the future we don’t see Infante in the Allstar game and Uggla another disaster.
mudcat
November 17th, 2010
11:07 pm
Scott Podsednik is the answer. He’s a guy who’ll steal 30-40 bases, bat .280-.300 and plays anywhere in the outfield. He’s just waiting for a call from FW. We have a NEED for SPEED!
mm
November 17th, 2010
11:52 pm
My biggest concern is the backup 1B/3B spot, which apparently right now would be Mather. I think the odds that the Braves will get through the season intact at 1B (with a rookie) and 3B (with a 39yo vet) are pretty slim. If you move Prado back in to 3B, you’ve got a hole in LF (I too hope to see Jordan Schafer up to stay at some point in the season, but that’s not something you can count on). If he’s affordable, I’d love to see the Braves bring in Jorge Cantu for this spot. Fredi’s familiar with him from the Marlins, and he can be a credible right-handed fill-in at both corner infield positions.
The other concern, I think, is a reserve MIF. In-house there’s Hernandez and Hicks. There are two potential trade-options I’d love to see the Braves explore here: Mike Aviles (KC) and Alberto Callaspo (LAA).
David O'Brien
November 18th, 2010
12:04 am
Glory Days: The Braves are playing Uggla at 2B. Wren’s already told Prado he’s going to left field — and 3B when needed — so no, I don’t see that left field is an option. Not unless Uggla plays 2B worse than ever. Because Wren told me today, when I asked about Uggla’s defense, that he doesn’t think the Braves are much different (i.e. worse) with Uggla at 2B than Prado. That’s what he said. And he believes they’re better in LF with Prado than they were last season (that part, I agree with).
Fredi and Carlos Tosca told Wren there aren’t many guys that turn the double play better than Uggla, and Wren said the defense he saw from Uggla this season was solid, not deficient.
Jimbo Jones
November 18th, 2010
12:06 am
We need another quality outfielder. The chances of either a) Chipper getting hurt or not making it back, which would move Prado to third; or b) Prado getting hurt, are quite high. I hate to say it but Heyward has had a litany of injury woes for a young guy, too, though he has also always played through what ails him with no complaint.
I like the notion of an Ellsbury or an Upton trade. Sadly, I’d be shocked if we brought in a quality outfielder at this point. Also, why not play Uggla at lf and prado at 2nd?
Jimbo Jones
November 18th, 2010
12:07 am
Okay, guess DOB just answered my last question about playing Uggla in LF.
ATLER (ramblin wreck)
November 18th, 2010
1:07 am
Can we get more Negros on this team!!!!!!!!!!!! Please, too many rednecks on the team!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
J-Man
November 18th, 2010
1:36 am
We still need another outfielder. I think we should resign Rick Ankiel cheap. I also think we need to resign Hinske.
Here is what the line-up for opening day will look like (even though I don’t necessarily agree with it)
1. LF Prado
2. RF Heyward
3. 3B Chipper
4. 2B Uggla
5. C McCann
6. SS Gonzalez
7. 1B Freeman
8. CF McClouth ( I wish we had a better option)
9. P Hudson
Bench
10. C Ross
11. (TBA) OF ( maybe Rick Ankiel)
12. (TBA)OF ( probably Matt Diaz)
13. (TBA) Utility ( hopefully Bill Hall)
14. IF Hernandez
15. Power bat (TBA) ( better be Hinske)
Other Starting P
16. Derek Lowe
17. Tommy Hanson
18. Jair Jurrgens
19. Mike Minor
Relief P
20. Brandon Beechy
21. Peter Moylan
22. Eric O’Flairity
23. (TBA) ( We need another Lefty if Venters closes hopefully Arthur Rhodes)
24. Craig Kimbrel
25. Johnny Venters
keef
November 18th, 2010
2:46 am
what we have to do now is put massive pressure on Liberty Media to up payroll by $20 million as their CEO ALONE makes more ($88 Million) than the entire Braves! Liberty Media: Put up or sell us, SOB’s!
STEELY DAN MAN
November 18th, 2010
2:59 am
I’d like to get a authentic Bobby Cox jersey, but can’t find a full-grown man’s ( if you know what I mean )
HELP SOMEBODY !!!!!!!!!
Stacey
November 18th, 2010
3:20 am
This is a good trade..
But, I think they shouldn’t have got rid of Infante.. The man is awesome..
But, they need outfield power.. Matty Diaz should be out there playing full time..
He’s awesome.. But, they need to get somebody who can swing the bat and they need a good closer..
Nick
November 18th, 2010
4:19 am
@ June Baby
The Braves had one of the highest OBP in the MLB lastseason. Their problem was that nobody was able to drive em in!!!! Getting Uggla will give us that power guy to drive in Prado,Heyward and Chip(who combined get on base at a .385 clip). McCann hitting 5th where he belongs is there to force teams to have to pitch to Uggla.(and makes them use their pen much more inefficiently)
Nick
November 18th, 2010
4:20 am
Meant to say Gave us the power guy… my bad
Conyers Braves Fan
November 18th, 2010
4:47 am
The Braves need a power hitting outfielder who can drive in 100 runs and hit at least 25 home runs. The addition of Uggla`s bat helps but does not negate the need for
a full time LF power hitter since Prado will likely wind up having to play 3B most of the time.
JJ
November 18th, 2010
5:43 am
I know Thurston was never called up last year because he was not on 40 man roster,but he was solid at 3A and he has experience doing what Infante did for Braves when he was in St.Lou..I hope he get a chance now that BC is gone and why the Braves keep waiting on Schaffer?I think,like so many others on this blog that the thing that is really holding the Braves back is Chipper.Iwish he would really show his love for this organization and move on and let the Braves put a complete team on the field.I know he will not walk away from the MONY,but sometime you wish people would do the right thing.One last thing,I hope we find a CF that can really ball.GO BRAVES
dap01
November 18th, 2010
6:14 am
We need speed. We need speed.
Notso Fast
November 18th, 2010
6:15 am
This was a good trade with the Braves getting the best of the deal this year. If the Braves aren’t able to resign Uggla then the Marlins could have the better deal for several years aka Texas and those young players they got from the Braves several years ago. The Braves like to build through the draft and use trades only for immediate needs.
Bill Buckner
November 18th, 2010
6:39 am
the trade looks good on paper, but I thought Brooks Conrad was the guy at 2B?
richtfan
November 18th, 2010
7:00 am
a backup to mclouth as the starter? you’ve got to be kidding.
the guy hit under .200 and made lots of mental mistakes in the field. he was basically horrible last year. we need a stud roaming the outfield for the bravos, not a middle school centerfielder.
Arkie
November 18th, 2010
7:23 am
Our Braves have loss many games because of – Team speed, errors, not moving runners into scoring position and that one power hitter. We have that power now. Maybe our two 21 year old starters will do well. They will have to make adjustments as major league pitchers find their weaknesses. I believe our new hitting coach will help. There are several center fielders that can get on base, steal bases and hit for a good average. We need this speed at lead off. McLouth needs to refine his swing to help any club. If he could, would, level his swing, hit the ball where it is pitched – I think I’m dreaming – will it happen?? Wren spread Chipper’s money over several more years. Free up enough money to sign Uggla for 4 years and get this kid from the Red Socks (Ellsbury), Podsednik, Upton or?? Need the Defense and Speed.
LWells2000
November 18th, 2010
7:26 am
Stop the bleeding! Replace Nate McLouth…NOW~!
athensmatt
November 18th, 2010
7:53 am
What I’m worried about is what’ll happen if Chipper can’t go from opening day, or if he can only play 30-50 games next year. That puts Prado at 3B and who in left? McLouth with Schafer/Young in center? That sounds pretty weak. I agree with J-Man that we need another outfielder, but not Ankiel. Somebody who is strong defensively (and will try to throw out tagging runners) and can push McLouth to a 4th outfielder’s role. Scott Podsednik, Austin Kearns, Randy Winn, Bill Hall?
Braves Fan #10
November 18th, 2010
8:21 am
Bring back Frenchy to play CF, or Andrew Jones !
don
November 18th, 2010
8:27 am
It would be good to see Matt Young get a chance. No one works any harder than does Matt.
An Adult
November 18th, 2010
8:29 am
J-Man — I guess the Braves are shooting Joe Mather and burying him somewhere in the park or else you left him off your roster.
dpelfrey
November 18th, 2010
8:37 am
That’s why Prado is an all-star. Works hard, takes care of his business and doesn’t put himself above the team. He likely just lost any chance at making another all-star game, but all he wants to do is get up to that plate and chop some high cheese. We love you man!
Maybe Matt Young is this year’s version of Martin, someone without the prospect rating that works hard and earns his keep at the major league level.
Thanksgiving
November 18th, 2010
8:41 am
Why is Wren not even considering Andruw? I just don’t understand!!!!! We could get him for league min!
Tami
November 18th, 2010
8:47 am
I’d like to see the Braves invite both Schafer & Young to spring training to compete for an OF position. I’m intrigued by Young, since Wren has talked him up big time but I’ve never seen him play. I definitely think the Braves should re-sign Hinske. After all, the bench is what “extended” the Braves’ run during the 2010 season with all the injuries. However, the Braves’ demise was that a lot of those key injuries were season-ending ones. So with a depleted bench, it wasn’t any wonder that they “ran out of gas” during the NLDS. Hinske, though, was a key part of that terrific bench and is definitely needed in the 2011 season.
E-6
November 18th, 2010
8:48 am
don – Agreed on Young – hard nosed little ballplayer. Reminds you of Lemke – although a little better bat and not quite the glove. Speaking of gloves, that is the only downside to the Uggla trade – we begin 2011 stronger at first but weaker at second and short than the start of 2010 with Chipper being the wild card – can he come back and play a serviceable third base?
Let's Go
November 18th, 2010
9:00 am
I really liked Omar Infante but this trade was a no brainer. Omar was at the top of his trade value after having a career season and considering he had been around for a while he probably would never have had another season as good as the last. Dunn is only going to get better but the Braves have 2 other left handed relievers so they don’t lose a lot there. I told my wife after the season ended that the Braves would probably have to trade Omar & JJ since they didn’t have the money to pursue high cost free agents but I figured it would be for a decent CF not a slugger like Uggla.
BALL FAN 4 LIFE
November 18th, 2010
9:02 am
to hell with McLouth….lets go get CARL CRAWFORD and be done with it….give up some young pitching prospects and KK and maybe even JJ….Lets get it done. HELL, lets spend the dough and make our rotation THAT MUCH BETTER and go get CLIFF LEE~!
coachx
November 18th, 2010
9:05 am
Matt Diaz would be nice to have back. Maybe the Braves think he is slowing down a little bit. I have a feeling Prado will be playing more 3B then LF. I just can’t see Chipper starting more then 100 games at 38 coming off major knee surgery. It would be great if visits the fountain of youth one last time but that is hard to count on.
bill
November 18th, 2010
9:07 am
thank you for makingn the Braves relavent again. They made the playoofs and are already stronger for next year. Freddy at first haters did not like Hayward or McCann either.
kudzu
November 18th, 2010
9:15 am
Would it be dumb to consider bringing back JEFF FRANCOUER (sp) for RF, move Heyward to CF…? Just saying….
DC Brave
November 18th, 2010
9:16 am
Wouldn’t it be great if Frank Wren called Billy Wagner up in Virginia, in say, about June:
“Billy, thanks to that Uggla trade and a healthy Chipper and J-Hey, we are looking pretty strong…these kids in the pen are pretty good…but they need you out there…how would you like one more shot at going to the Series?”
How could a warrior like Wagner say no?
coach xyz
November 18th, 2010
9:19 am
Diaz is history..hits thats all. Young is very good if he continues in Majors..pulling for him. Schafer I have no use for only had 2 good months in 3 years except with drugs in minors?
Poorbrave
November 18th, 2010
9:28 am
Bill Hall can play above average 2,ss & 3rd..plus good in all of outfield positions and hit 18 homers in 127 games.49 rbi..250ba..=Better than most Braves starters..
Just what we need as UTILITY player that can Get it done. As good as Omar and better than Diaz,and Mather.
Make the call Wren.
Angie
November 18th, 2010
9:37 am
Please unblock me. This is silly.
Blair
November 18th, 2010
9:44 am
If we go with an internal option for backup CF then that gives us a little payroll flexibility if Mclouth doesn’t perform well in the first half. Wren could then go out and possibly find someone before the trade deadline. Give the young guys an opportunity if they have proven themselves in AAA. Don’t spend the extra money in a backup when Young or Schafer can fill the role admirably.
skip
November 18th, 2010
9:48 am
I like the trade for Uggla but the Braves still need a legitimate lead-off hitter. Prado is a terrific player but is not the prototypical lead-off guy. Please come home, Gregor Blanco.
59bulldawg
November 18th, 2010
9:52 am
Would really like to find a way to keep Diaz. But I love Prado’s “team” attitude.
Shaggy1973
November 18th, 2010
9:56 am
“Wren said the Braves might also add a bench player with center-field experience.”
I see an Anrew Jones signing coming.
Jack
November 18th, 2010
10:02 am
Ben Thinken wrote: “It looks like the regular hype on a minor leaguer based on Wrens description of him. I wonder why he’s been stuck in the minors for 6 seasons if he’s so good.” Just a reminder to you Uggla was a Rule 5 pickup by the Marlins. That mean he was in the minor leagues for at least 4 years and I think 5. Do you think he turned out pretty good?
Great job O’Brien keeping us informed; just think you need to join in on the conversation more….
RedandBlack
November 18th, 2010
10:02 am
Trading Infante away was the worst thing that the Braves could do. Infante can hit the ball and get on base frequently. Now, the Braves only have Prado, McCann, and Chipper (when he returns healthy) as consistent proven hitters capable of hitting 300 or better. Heyward and Uggla are not proven 300 hitters. Infante is a proven 300 hitter, and he can play outfield and infield positions.
Playing Prado in left field is not a good move either. Prado is an infielder. The Braves need to trade McGoof for a box of doughnuts and just play minor leaguers out there if they cannot afford to pay a real outfielder to play baseball. Go Dogs!!
bravesgrl4life
November 18th, 2010
10:11 am
I hope we keep Diaz as a backup hitter and left-fielder and a backup catcher (in case of extreme emergency). He is my hometown boy (Lakeland, FL) and played little league with my nephew. I’d hate to lose him, but if we did, I would still follow his career with the new team.
I love Marteeeen!! He is the ultimate team player!
JeanE
November 18th, 2010
10:25 am
If Chipper doesn’t work on and Prado ends up shifting to 3rd, then what are you left with? Bring back MattE D!!! He might even be willing at this point to come back for less than he made last year to stay with the team. I don’t want us becoming the Marlins North, yuk. You can’t just ship off everyone that made up the heart of this team and expect to improve. You still need gutty bench players and that’s what MattE is.
Brainiac
November 18th, 2010
10:38 am
DOB “Find a backup for Nate in CF”. Heck, they need to find a REPLACEMENT for McOut. Did anybody else but we bloggers see his .186 and misjudging of routine fly balls ? You’d think Wren saw it ? So as Norris says, if Chipper cannot play 3rd then you STILL have no LF & CF. McOut should be at AA or out of baseball PERIOD.
Brainiac
November 18th, 2010
10:40 am
DOB, would Wren invite Andruw Jones to ST for a shot ? You seem to avoid my questions a lot.
Brainiac
November 18th, 2010
10:43 am
Let’s face it, McOut,Ankiel,D.Lee,and Glaus have been busts. But you still claim McOut as the starting CF ? Unreal.
2010 Promotions Suck!!
November 18th, 2010
10:43 am
Win or Lose……….Bring back Premium Promotions at The Ted. I want my Bobbheads Dammit!!
Brainiac
November 18th, 2010
10:44 am
Maybe Carrol Rogers can answer my question ? Hey Carroll, would Wren invite Andruw Jones to ST for a shot ?
Prez of the Matt Diaz Fan Club
November 18th, 2010
10:44 am
What will I do if Diaz isn’t resigned? The irony will be lost…
In Fredi I Trust
November 18th, 2010
10:44 am
DOB,
Wouldn’t it be a good idea for the Braves to go after a cheap (somewhat proven) option in CF like Ellsbury or a player like that and try to trade, waive McLouth? That way we would have very good defense, a true leadoff hitter, and a guy that could swipe some bases often and put this team in a position to win more games?
With trading for a power hitter like Uggla, I believe we are missing that one piece at the moment to really solidify this team. McLouth is a risky chance no matter what his salary is. I realize that his pay will be a hindrance on what the Braves can do with him, but we really need to go all in and make sure this team is a threat again. What are your thoughts?
David O'Brien
November 18th, 2010
10:53 am
Wouldn’t it be a good idea for the Braves to go after a cheap (somewhat proven) option in CF like Ellsbury or a player like that and try to trade, waive McLouth? — In Fredi I Trust
McLouth is owed $7.75 million, includig buyout of 2012 option. Braves aren’t the Yankees, can’t afford just to eat that much money, particularly since they’re probably going to eat at least several million of Kawakami’s contract to move him this offseason.
Ellsbury, because he’s just now becoming arb-eligible for the first time, is coveted by teams, and the Red Sox could command good, young talent in a trade if if they decide to deal him (which they haven’t decided to do, at least not yet).
David O'Brien
November 18th, 2010
10:56 am
Bainiac: I haven’t gotten an answer yet on Andruw, so I don’t think he’s been ruled out. But after season he had last year, he certainly will not have to settle for a minor league contract from a team. Boras will get him a major league contract, so Braves wouldn’t have luxury of signing him to a minor league deal and inviting him to spring training without occupying a roster spot.
He’s more a corner guy at this point, but he has gotten himself into a lot better shape than in recent years, and wasn’t collapsing on his back leg in the second half of last season. He finally got that worked out, it appears, and had his best half-season in some time.
Desibrave
November 18th, 2010
11:02 am
DOB, Braves most important piece next would be to find a replacement for Wagner. I see no problem with this lineup for 2011
PRADO
HEYWARD
CHIPPER
MCCANN
UGGLA
GONZALEZ
FREEMAN
MCLOUTH
PITCHER
If Chipper retires for some reason then try to trade for someone with the money we can save..,
bhall
November 18th, 2010
11:06 am
Hopefully Gonzalez isn’t rediculous in lineup selections like Cox was. Chipper has become a #2 hitter. Let him do that, where his OBP actually helps and have Heyward, Uggla and McCann as the middle of the order. I love Chipper Jones, but having your 4th best power option batting 3rd in the lineup just because of tradition is bad bad bad baseball. Uggla transforms this lineup. Couldn’t be happier with the move!
bhall
November 18th, 2010
11:07 am
1. Prado
2. Jones
3. Heyward
4. Uggla
5. McCann
6. Freeman
7. Gonzalez
8. McLouth
Brainiac
November 18th, 2010
11:08 am
Thanks DOB. Please keep us posted.
Brainiac
November 18th, 2010
11:27 am
I just don’t think McLouth is the answer in CF. I have no problem with the man I just base it on production on the field which is what he ets paid to do. I wasn’t good enough to play college baseball and I came to terms with that. The Braves & McLouth need to come to terms that .186 isn’t good enough to be the starting CF for the Atlanta Braves. Too many options are out there to settle for poor play in CF. Trade a couple of those coveted A pitchers for a top CF. We all know that every pitcher in the organization won’t be a Brave anyway. Some lose it and retire. Some never get past AAA. But don’t handicap your MLB team today to save for a bright future that may never come to fruition.
Tyler
November 18th, 2010
11:30 am
How about picking up Bill Hall, Ron Mayhay, signing Andruw Jones and re-signing Matt Diaz. I love Hinske, but I’d rather have Andruw back.
Chuck
November 18th, 2010
11:32 am
McLouth, Hinske, and Diaz are in limbo right now, and McLouth can’t be moved. If the Braves get a real CF, then those two would platoon in LF when Chipper is out. That may sound odd, but with an infielder playing LF normally, the bench can look different. I hate losing Diaz!
David O'Brien
November 18th, 2010
11:34 am
Desibrave: I’d be surprised if Braves went out and got a full-time closer. They like the options they have in Kimbrel and Venters, and the bullpen help they’re looking for now is more for depth, perhaps a veteran with closer/setup experience.
Tyler
November 18th, 2010
11:47 am
DOB,
What do you think has better chance: Signing of Diaz/Hinske, Bill Hall, Andruw Jones, or neither?
RemoW
November 18th, 2010
11:49 am
Prado is one serious stand up guy! He said what many of us on this blog would say in his position. Put me in coach. It is refreshing to see a guy playing in the bigs and seems to really appreciate playing in the bigs. Just an outstanding example in this day and age of prima Donnas.
Wrong way WREN
November 18th, 2010
11:53 am
Just cut McLOUTH, he is not a MAJOR LEAGUE caliber hitter.
darrell starks
November 18th, 2010
11:55 am
Braves need 2 sign crawford for about 16mill a year, and with chipper condition who may not make it thru the year crawford would be the secure party for the braves.
GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!!!
wally pip
November 18th, 2010
12:01 pm
Here’s my daily pitch for Jacoby Ellsbury. He’s lightning fast, gets on base and steals many bags, scores beau coup runs. He plays great cf defense, and he’s a clutch player who can hit it out on occasion. McClouth would be the fourth outfielder.
I do not think Hayward should be hitting second. Here’s my dream lineup:
Ellsbury
Prado
Chipper
Uggla
McCann
Hayward
Gonzales
Freeman
If Jair pitches anywhere near his potential, and Medlen can be available, this team could conquer the East, and beyond.
I look for Chipper and Uggla to have near career years, btw. Both should hit 25 dingers, and so should Heywood and McCann. Freeman and Gonzo will hit 20, Prado 15. That’s 155, and that’s just the status quo, without anyone getting seriously hot.
Doc
November 18th, 2010
12:02 pm
David, what about Pirates CF McCutheon, lead-off man, great speed,stolen bases,good average .280+, and Pirates need all kinds of pitching..good trade w.o. spending $
darrell starks
November 18th, 2010
12:03 pm
WITH CHIPPER HURT
1.MCLOUTH CENTER FIELD
2.PRADO 3RD BASE
3.HEYWARD RIGHT FIELD
4.UGGLA SECOND BASE
5.CRAWFORD RIGHT FIELD
6.MCCANN CATCHER
7.FREEMAN 1ST BASE
8.GONZALEZ SHORTSTOP
GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!
Desibrave
November 18th, 2010
12:03 pm
DOB, You are right… i didn’t mean a full time closer , but i meant a VETERAN RELIEF PITCHER who can help the still very young bullpen like Wagner did..
butch
November 18th, 2010
12:04 pm
me thinks…Wren didn’t get a deal with Uggla.. .he stole him. Now Wren is looking for more steals for the holes in the lineup….I bet he has a couple more up his sleave
AGTFan53
November 18th, 2010
12:06 pm
This just in … Braves acquire Pujols for a bag of bats and a box of balls …. Braves fans complain and moan and whine.
“We overpaid.”
“We really need those bats.”
“He’s in decline.”
“I was better than he is when I played little league.”
Ed
November 18th, 2010
12:10 pm
Please tell me what LMHO means.
David O'Brien
November 18th, 2010
12:19 pm
Tyler: Hinske, of that group, is most likely to sign. In my opinion.
bravesfan
November 18th, 2010
12:24 pm
wtf??
how “mature” is that for a blogger name
Omar
November 18th, 2010
12:24 pm
I competed for the NL batting title last year and what thanks do I get? FW trades me and now I’m a smelly fish!
Ted M
November 18th, 2010
12:34 pm
BOB,
Have you heard any Wilson Betemit rumors? I was surprised the Royals signed him to a minor league contract. He meets your description of Andruw in that regard.
WatchEmEveryNight_Fans
November 18th, 2010
1:09 pm
So many possible combinations. Anxious for spring training so we can see what shakes out. Love to keep Hinske and Mattie D. Great players and there for us when nothing else is workin …
Tyler
November 18th, 2010
1:11 pm
DOB,
Agreed on Hinske. I like Diaz, but know they could probably use Mather in more spots on the field than Diaz and are both RH. I’d like to think Wren would like to TRY to replace Infante with someone who could play IF with some CF experience. It’s hard to imagine going into season counting on McClouth. I know his potential is there, but we need to see him get back into All-Star form like 2008/2009. Having Young and Shafer as back-up is too dangerous for what this team can accomplish with the trade of Uggla.
Wren has thrown some chips in by taking on $7.75 mil more with Uggla, but we need to make sure if McClouth is going to continue to struggle that we have pieces in place. No sense in making that bold move if major defencies show up and our OF production is lacking again in 2011.
Really would like to see us re-sign Hinski and bring in another right handed bat that could potentionally play CF. Bill Hall would be ideal, but sure he’d command $7.5 mil plus and the Yanks would outbid.
I believe in Shafer, but you have to have that inkling that HGH played a big role in his production in the day.
Re-sign Hinski, non-tender Diaz and throw ALL the chips in and sign Bill Hall.
Memphis
November 18th, 2010
1:16 pm
There are so many miserable people on this message board. Everything Wren does is apparently wrong. Omar is 29 years old and had a career year. Look at his career average. He’s not that good. He had one good year. The players are happy, the manager is happy, and I’m happy that we got Uggla. Get a freakin grip. It’s not like we’re the Pirates.
Memphis
November 18th, 2010
1:18 pm
All these people who want Ellsbury. What are we gonna trade for him? Jurjenns? Medlen, Venters, Kimbrel? No. People just don’t take your scraps. Why don’t we trade for McClouth and Kawakami for Pujols and Carpenter while we’re at it.
Why are the Braves moving Martin Prado to left field instead of Dan Uggla? | HardballTalk
November 18th, 2010
1:19 pm
[...] O’Brien of the Atlanta Journal Constitution reports that Martin Prado had no problem with the Braves’ request that he move to left field [...]
David O'Brien
November 18th, 2010
1:23 pm
Wren has thrown some chips in by taking on $7.75 mil more with Uggla, but we need to make sure if McClouth is going to continue to struggle that we have pieces in place. — Tyler
You’re off by a few mill on Uggla. He made $7.8 million in 2010, but should get about $10-11 mill in arbitration for 2011.
myra
November 18th, 2010
1:25 pm
Afternoon. I was listening to conversations reguarding Cliff Lee and how hes gonna get MEGA paid because the Yanks have no other choice really. It made me think of how in the world the Atlanta Braves ever got Greg Maddux? So I did my wiki research and found that the Braves were bidding with the Yanks for Maddog. The Yanks offered more but Doggie went with us( I guess cause we were a World Serious type of ball club back then?)
Just wondering why after all his success here, Doggie wasn’t offered a position with Braves? Was there some man hate between Frank and the Maddog? Or just a case of too many chiefs already in place? Or did Greg want to start at the top ONLY?
Can u imagine what Maddux would make $ today if it was the same situation in todays market for pitching?
ReddJonn68
November 18th, 2010
1:27 pm
Great info DOB ! Word is the talks with Werth are not going anywhere for Philly, Upton is available but at a huge price. I for one agree with resigning Andruw Jones as a backup, if for nothing else other than defense & who knows he may hit a few out every now & then. In my personal opinion, we have decent power, I still think we could use some infusion of speed. Too many times last season it seemed that if we didn’t get an extra base hit our guys were left stranded. I mean think about it guys even if Chipper does return to our lineup ( minus J-Hey ) it will be one of the slowest in all of MLB. I’m tired of hearing about this Shafer guy, J-Hey & FF have already moved up what is the deal, is he a bust or what ????? We need to address this outfield situation pronto.
Cool Dude
November 18th, 2010
1:31 pm
BJ Upton…make it happen
Tyler
November 18th, 2010
1:33 pm
DOB,
Was talking about the difference btw Infante’s salary for 2011 and Uggla’s potential salary for 2011.
Should be around $7.5-8.0 million difference, no?
I wasn’t clear there.
Have been looking at Matt Youngs stats for 2009, 2010 and current winter ball. Looks like he could be a good fit if McClouth doesn’t pan out and try to make a move around deadline if that doesn’t work out. He’s got some decent wheels and looks like he’s primarily playing CF right now in Caribbean.
Texas Frenchy
November 18th, 2010
1:36 pm
What is it that you “fans” dont get??? McOut is owed too much $ & is being given the shot at starting in CF, period. There will be no more BIG moves made, Uggla is it & its a damn good one, anyone that thinks it wasnt a great trade is a MORON! Now resign Hinske, let Diaz walk, & DOB, how about signing Nady to platoon @ 1st & play some outfield, hes a FA & has RH power & could sign him for maybe 2-3 million? Thanks Dave & Go Bravos
Fish Bisch
November 18th, 2010
1:38 pm
We need to sign Soriano since we lost Wags.
Tyler
November 18th, 2010
1:38 pm
Andruw would be nice to bring in, but he’s going to want to play more than what the Braves would probably use him for. At this point he’s a LF player. Prado will play there everyday unless Chipper is out and I’m sure Boras will find Andruw a platoon type situation at the least. Would love to have him, but his CF days are over.
Bill Hall. Veteran super-utility that can play 2B, 3B, and OF. Infante with pop.
ReddJonn68
November 18th, 2010
1:45 pm
@ Texas Frenchy It is understood by true fans we got duped in the McLouth deal,but just like the KK deal it’s time for Wren to lick his wounds & start thinking about the future of this OF. The Uggla deal was perfect now we need to keep putting the pieces around our young cornerstones, nothing against Chipper. Wren has some tough decisions to make are we going to win now or later, we cannot go thru another season, where we are just sticking our fingers in the leaks.
Tyler
November 18th, 2010
1:50 pm
@ Texas Frenchy – Maybe bringing in Nady will help McClouth out somehow. They both played well when together with the Pirates, and that’s about the last time they both played well.
chuckwdeadjournalist
November 18th, 2010
1:52 pm
myra –
if memory serves me, maddox wanted to stay close to his home in las vegas and the cubs spring training site is in arizona. i believe he started as a spring training instructor for the cubs and the this role happened.
i may not be remembering all of that correctly, but i believe that is the case.
David O'Brien
November 18th, 2010
1:56 pm
Good one, Fish Bisch.
David O'Brien
November 18th, 2010
1:58 pm
Tyler, yes that’s about the difference in Uggla/Infante salaries, maybe closer to $8.5 than $7.5 (people I spoke with at GM meetings seem to think he’ll get closer to $11 mill than $10 mill if he goes to arb)
chuckwdeadjournalist
November 18th, 2010
1:58 pm
keep in mind that bill hall had a good season last year, and of all the positions he plays, short is probably his worst. he may be too expensive for the braves.
if the braves add a back-up middle infielder (which i believe they will), i’d look for it to be someone who has significant experience playing short stop. within the organization, it’s a position with no depth in the event that they needed a mid-term fill-in at the position. a potential option, if he plays again, would be omar vizquel.
Bama Brave
November 18th, 2010
2:04 pm
David obrien what do you think the chances we sign uggla long turn? And do you seeing us getting a speedy outfielder? Thanks
bascogcjs
November 18th, 2010
2:06 pm
It’s a shame players like M. Diaz, who have had several solid seasons(.300 career avg.)get discarded, while carnival acts like Nate stay on a roster because some nut overpaid them.
Not to mention the fact that Diaz outhustles almost everyone in MLB, while Nate Mc, the carnival act goes to sleep in the field, without seeing any consequences for his lapses.
And this subject never comes up from Braves management as far as I know.
Tyler
November 18th, 2010
2:09 pm
DOB,
Have you gone through what the projected payroll would be with Uggla’s potential $11mil on the books? Wondering where that puts us at with the payroll constraints.
nique
November 18th, 2010
2:16 pm
bhall’s got the right lineup. DOB, does the organization still think shafer has a chance at being an average or above average player, or do they view his ceiling differently now?
myra
November 18th, 2010
2:31 pm
@chuckwithdead….
I remember now…what you said about Maddux.
Thanks.
hooters girl
November 18th, 2010
2:40 pm
Enter your comments here
David O'Brien
November 18th, 2010
2:40 pm
Bama Brave: As I’ve said a few times here in past couple of days, I think there’s a pretty good chance Braves sign Uggla long-term. Not going to give percentages or odds or whatever, because I don’t know exactly. I just have a feeling there’s a pretty good chance, based on how much he wants to be here and fact the Braves don’t have proven power hitters coming up in the organization.
Jim
November 18th, 2010
2:49 pm
Come on Braves staff, resign Hinske. How many times has he saved a game?
Tyler
November 18th, 2010
2:53 pm
DOB,
Future: Who is going to be Braves 2012 SS?
Let's be honest....
November 18th, 2010
3:05 pm
the only way that we get a Carl Crawford or B.J. Upton is if Chipper retires, which I believe is the Braves best option, he is holding too much of a cap and in my opinion he is being somewhat selfish by coming back knowing good and well that he will not be that valuable to us. He might get us 40 games if we are lucky….time to face the music Chipper…RETIRE!!!! It would be good to have him as a hitting coach…..
Bama Brave
November 18th, 2010
3:06 pm
Tyler. Alex is our ss.
Poorbrave
November 18th, 2010
3:06 pm
Agree Tyler, B Hall should be looked at..who’s his agent? I to am tired of the Schafer, a Jones, frenchy, return bull crap..time to move forward not backward. Go Braves!
David O'Brien
November 18th, 2010
3:07 pm
Tyler: I’ll wait a while to worry/guess about the Braves’ SS in 2012. Let’s see how some players perform in 2011, guys like Pastornicky. If they don’t have someone ready to step in, then they’ll sign or trade for a new shortstop. But I’m certainly not going to start handicapping that field at this point.
Chad
November 18th, 2010
3:09 pm
As far as McClouth is concerned we are stuck with him. If Wren could move him he would but the other GM’s, or so I thought before the Yggla trade, are not stupid. They generally loose their job for making bad trades. Anyone willing to give up a bag of balls for McClouth and take on his salary would be blasted from his GM chair into another deminsion by their owner. In a world of guaranteed salaries they pay him no matter what. Considering this the Braves are stuck. Can’t trade him/have to pay him. So all you can hope for is a better season, I don’t think it is unreasonable he can return to the player he was. In fact I bet if he does turn into a 275 hitter/15 to 20 homers/70 rbi guy everyone will be screaming keep him.
Tyler
November 18th, 2010
3:16 pm
Salcedo. Only reason I ask is that we’re talking about locking up Uggs @ 2B and Prado would come much cheaper on his contract.
I’m assuming we’re thinking about 2013 and Prado moving to 3rd upon Chipper’s contract expiration, but wondering if monies should be used elsewhere.
I’m starting to talk and think out of my arse. Should focus on 2011. Inquire on Bill Hall or Otis Nixon, he’s clean now right?
Poorbrave
November 18th, 2010
3:18 pm
Maybe Nate will come out smoking and hit 300 plus for month are two and Wren then could unload him… then what?
Poorbrave
November 18th, 2010
3:24 pm
Keeping it in the family…John S just made his son a Minor League manager!
Homer
November 18th, 2010
3:32 pm
Now if we can get a quality EVERYDAY third baseman
Texas Frenchy
November 18th, 2010
3:33 pm
Redd, Bravos already are looking to eat KK contract, not going to eat McOuts also, cant afford it so they gotta give McOut a chance to come thru, he got hot in Sept. so who knows maybe with new bp coach he will come alive again & he has speed which we sorely need, but as of today our starting outfield is Heyward RF, McOut CF, Prado LF so Nate is only big ??? but we need to add another OF since we all know Chipper will go down sometime probably sooner than later, Go Bravos
DawgDad
November 18th, 2010
3:44 pm
“Because Wren told me today, when I asked about Uggla’s defense, that he doesn’t think the Braves are much different (i.e. worse) with Uggla at 2B than Prado.”
I just lost ALL respect for Frank Wren. What an idiot, if that’s truly what he said.
I like the Uggla trade, for his bat. I don’t like the idea of Uggla playing second behind groundball aces like Hudson and Lowe, and Moylan. Prescription for disaster. Prado and Infante may not have been gold-glove second basemen, but neither was a stationary object and each was relatively adept at turning a DP. Prado, legs healthy, actually has upside potential.
I don’t want to see the Braves shut down the trade talks. I’d like to see them pick up a good defensive middle infielder, particularly a Hudson-Phillips type or someone in that mold. Then between second, third, and left field you have options and flexibility and someone coming off the bench.
Hammy the Brave
November 18th, 2010
3:44 pm
DOB,
I’m glad to hear in your answer to BamaBrave that you believe there’s a good chance the Braves sign Uggla longterm. It was a great trade irregardless( Loria must have made Florida dump him immediately), but I’d like to see him here longterm, as the answer at 3rd base. What do you think about that possibility, as there aren’t many real 3rd base options in the minors(Joe Leonard?)?
Also, do you hear of other clubs interested in signing Derek Lee as their starter at 1B? I really want FW to offer arb. to him, get those 2 draft picks, and continue rebuilding the farm system, especially position players. What are the Braves’ chances of offering srb. to Derek Lee, from what you hear and/or feel?
Thanks for all your great info lately,
Hammy
Jake
November 18th, 2010
3:46 pm
What about Melky Cabrera; is he considered gone already. Of course he didn’t put up the numbers that he with the Yankees, but he is a solid player. I think this will be his break out year if he were to stay with the Braves.
Tyler
November 18th, 2010
3:50 pm
Jake, you’re kidding, right?
Slowhiteguy
November 18th, 2010
3:51 pm
Melky is busy exchanging diet ideas with Prince Fielder.
Total Grace
November 18th, 2010
3:53 pm
I agree with Jake, I think the melk man was due for a break out year.
Slowhiteguy
November 18th, 2010
3:55 pm
If by break out year you mean becoming the best 5th OF possible, then yes, I agree.
jim
November 18th, 2010
3:55 pm
Assuming we are working with people currently on our 40 man roster and Chipper is healthy, here is my suggested lineup (before seeing how things shake out in ST):
Young CF
Prado LF
Heyward RF
Uggla 2B
McCann C
Chipper 3B
Freeman 1B
Gonzalez SS
Pitcher
Without Chipper
Young LF
Prado 3b
Heyward RF
Uggla 2B
McCann C
Gonzalez SS
Freeman 1B
McLouth CF
Pitcher
Mather, McLouth, or Schafer may make a statement is ST to change projections and we may sign someone like Hall as advocated by some here on the blog.
In
Total Grace
November 18th, 2010
3:57 pm
Enter your comments here
Slowhiteguy
November 18th, 2010
4:04 pm
I actually do think Matt Young has a real shot at making the team out of spring training. He can run…and can play all three outfield positions. Seems to be a match.
gcs
November 18th, 2010
4:05 pm
DOB, You had a typo. You wrote:
“he would play third if Chipper Jones has setbacks”. I think you meant “he would play third WHEN Chipper Jones has setbacks.”
.
mushcreek
November 18th, 2010
4:11 pm
Jeff writes: “Coach: I’m hoping Wren gets Clint Barmes to backup second and shortstop. He’s a nontender candidate and hit 23 homers a season ago. He’s also a plus defender at both second and shortstop.”
Woulda been a good move but the Astros already made a trade to get Barnes.
With 23 round trippers last year, I would love to have Barnes as starting SS with Gonzo as the backup/platoon….but it’s a moot point now.
mushcreek
November 18th, 2010
4:16 pm
Ooops….error: Mushcreek.
Clint Barnes 23 hrs came in 2009. He dropped down to 8 HR in 2010….thus lessening his value considerably.
Tyler
November 18th, 2010
4:36 pm
David A. Churchill from ESPN on Mark Reynolds:
The Braves could also be a fit to an extent, since Chipper Jones’ status is unknown and the team needs offensive help.
No way this will happen.
pat
November 18th, 2010
4:47 pm
I’d rather have Hinske than Diaz….
Sean G
November 18th, 2010
4:48 pm
Prado is a class act and the ultimate team player. His selfless comment does not surprise me. This team is one player, (Carl Crawford), from being a Championship club.
mushcreek
November 18th, 2010
4:50 pm
To those who are skeptical about the trade for Uggla because of our need for OF help, do the following for me:
Make a list of available outfielders who
a) are currently available FA or on the trading block
b) meet our need for RH power hitter
c) have hit more than 154 HR over the past 5 yrs
d) have more than 465 RBIs over the past 5 yrs
e) have at least a 170 doubles over the past 5 yrs
Once you’ve compiled that list:
Tell me which of players on the list we could have gotten in trade for Infante and Dunn.
and
which players on the list would be easier to re-sign for a multi-year deal for less money than it’ll take to keep Uggla
Seriously….I wanna see the list….
braveshoo
November 18th, 2010
5:05 pm
Wishful thinking: since Red Sox need a catcher, send them a catcher prospect and JJ for Ellsbury and Papelbon. Hurts SP but makes lineup and bullpen great, and have Minor and Beachy for 4th and 5th spots in the rotation+ Teheran by July and Medlin in Sept. Agree with everyone that we need a CF-most likely option is Posednic. Then use McClouth as your 4th
Of who will play LF when Prado is at 3rd, which likely will be a lot.
JoeBravesFan
November 18th, 2010
5:26 pm
I like the idea of getting Andruw for right field and shifting J-Hey to center. Glad to have Uggla on the team and hope we can sign him long term. Chipper needs to hang it up. If he actually cares about this team, he should retire to free up his salary money so we can get another power bat in the lineup.
Ken
November 18th, 2010
5:28 pm
Andrew Jones had a couple of off years at the plate but played great center field yet management gave him a quick boot. Yet we continue to give Chipper repeated chances despite obvious decline in his health and performance for the past 4 years. Now we don’t show any interest in bringing Andrew back when he would probably be a great pickup in center as a backup. I ask you guys, if this is not the good old boy system at work , what is it? And Bobby Cox had to retire on is own when he should have been replaced years ago,
Curt
November 18th, 2010
6:02 pm
Andrew Jones, Jeff Francouer or any other retread should not be considered for back up, platoon or anything else on the Braves.
People complain about McClouth’s hitting and yet Jones and Francouer are worse. They are strike out machines, especially in the clutch. People suggest that Jones “had a few bad years” the fact is that Jones had one or two decent years and the rest he spent off balance swinging at bad pitches. If you pay attention, you would note that a large percentage of Jones’ home runs came with there was nothing at stake in the game thereby demonstrating that he is a choker. The tighter the game, the more he will swing at pitches out of the zone and Francouer just swings at everything out of the zone.
At the major league level, books are kept on evey hitter and every pitcher knows where that hitter’s holes are. This is why you see new hitters do well and then when ther other team finds out their holes, they dont do that well unless they too learn to adapt. Well Andrew Jones and Jeff Francouer have never really learned how to adapt and in Jone’s case he probably never will.
As for McClouth, he actually got much better after his is stint in Gwinnett and some work with Chipper. I would like to see someone speedy CF with a great bat on the Braves but given the amount of money owed him, the Braves are going to have to give McClouth the chance to succeed or fail.
Phil in TN
November 18th, 2010
6:20 pm
Only thing I worry about with Uggla… checked his fielding numbers. Errors have risen every year and last year he had 18. That’s a lot for a major league 2nd baseman.
Richard Denson
November 18th, 2010
7:06 pm
Frank Wren, I’m unhappy that you gave up Omar Infante but happy you got Dan Uggla. Just resign Derrek Lee and make him a utility man and I won’t be mad.
Keep Derrek Lee! Keep Derrek Lee! Keep Derrek Lee! Keep Derrek Lee!
shmoe
November 18th, 2010
7:08 pm
irregardless is not a word!!!!
shmoe
November 18th, 2010
7:08 pm
paplebon makes a gazillion dollars. no thanks, and no way anyhow
shmoe
November 18th, 2010
7:09 pm
andrew mccutcheon is pretty close to untouchable
shmoe
November 18th, 2010
7:09 pm
ellsbury fits needs at the top of the lineup perfectly but is in no way a standout center fielder
shmoe
November 18th, 2010
7:11 pm
neither crawford or either of the uptons are coming here
shmoe
November 18th, 2010
7:13 pm
my favorite choice is mccutcheon actually. that kid is dynamo
shmoe
November 18th, 2010
7:13 pm
even though it’s impossible. why am i talking to myself
Feeanch
November 18th, 2010
7:15 pm
Bobby’s Cox 2pm posting: “There’s no suggestion whatsoever that Uggla will take an Andruw Jones-like mystery downturn at the young age of 30 especially when he gets to play half of his games at the stadium in which he’s had he most success in his career.”
MYSTERY DOWNTURN = STEROID TESTING. See also: Marcus Giles, Brady Anderson et al…
Love Dru, but dude was jacked up like the rest of them…
shmoe
November 18th, 2010
7:18 pm
thats quite an accusation. i’m sure it had nothing to do with his strike zone recognition and poor mechanics.
McKay McBride
November 18th, 2010
7:56 pm
Whatever happened to me ? I had a nasty curve…
Chipper is kinda hamstringing (pun intended) the Braves with his unknown return to 3B. I mean if he returns you get .285 25 85. That’s not replaceable without a trade. I’d bring in Andruw Jones as a backup plan. Braves fans already love Andruw. They brought Glavine and LaRoche back and Braves fans loved it. Andruw deserves an opportunity after all he’s done for the Braves.
willy
November 18th, 2010
8:45 pm
I think the obvious option is to go with an organization guy to back up or displace mclouth in center (schafer, young) and then sign hinske, then get a veteran releiver (Gregg). although I would be opposed to bringing in bill hall or posednik. GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!
Gumbylovespokey
November 18th, 2010
10:04 pm
Plucky???? DOB, have you been watching GalaxyQuest again?
In Fredi I Trust
November 18th, 2010
10:16 pm
DOB,
I hear ya on the McLouth ordeal. I just think that is the only position that is going to completely hold the Braves back next season. Unless McLouth can somehow completely turn things around and be the hitter and base stealer that he was with the Pirates. I guess that is a possibility with a new hitting coach, and I am pretty sure that Fredi Gonzalez won’t put up with under performing play long like Cox did.
I guess if that is the only position that is lacking on the Braves then we are in good shape. I am hoping that Gonzalez will do more of the smaller things to get this team going again like bunting for hits, hit and runs, more stealing, and things of that nature. We can always bat McLouth in the 8th spot, but that won’t help him at all seeing as though pitchers will easily pitch around him to get to the pitcher. I don’t know, I just think that the Braves handcuffed themselves by trading for McLouth, and I can’t wait until he is gone.
In Fredi I Trust
November 18th, 2010
10:20 pm
Also, I hope that if Chipper isn’t performing at a high level that he just decides to retire instead of taking a huge amount of money from the Braves to be sitting on the DL all the time. A healthy Chipper is well worth the money, but the Chipper we have seen the past couple of seasons in ridiculous.
I would rather see Chipper retired, Prado at 3rd base, and a power hitting LF next season but that is not going to happen. We could really get a great power threat for LF with Chipper’s money.
David
November 18th, 2010
11:17 pm
@Richard Denson
Please tell me you are not serious. Derrek Lee a utility man? Really? That is absurd as this sign Andruw and Francoeur talk.
tha hitting fool
November 18th, 2010
11:26 pm
DIAZ PLEAZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ…LET HIM PLAY!!!!!
gt
November 19th, 2010
8:44 am
Any chance the braves trade jurjens for the Boston center fielder?
mark bradley's 70's fro and mustache
November 19th, 2010
11:09 am
DOB,
Is McClouth playing in a winter leauge?
mark bradley's 70's fro and mustache
November 19th, 2010
11:11 am
Why the hate for chipper jones? His walk total is awesome. The works well for uggla and the braves. More runs.
mike
November 19th, 2010
12:00 pm
I hope management remembers when our “old” starting pitching broke down years ago leaving the team in a mess. The same might be said for Chipper. If he can’t go, Prado goes to third and the outfield is back at square one. The Braves definitly need depth in the outfield. I hope they think twice if they plan to exclude Diaz in thier plans.
David O'Brien
November 19th, 2010
2:43 pm
mark bradley’s fro: No, McLouth’s not playing winter ball.
Tommy
November 20th, 2010
1:07 am
The trade for Uggla makes the team better, but as many before me have said, it doesn’t address all the concerns for the up-coming season. Chipper’s health has been an issue over the past 6 years, but it was just 3 seasons ago when he hit for .364, winning the batting title, in only 128 games. Its unlikely he will rebound to be that kind of player again, but his potential is great enough to gamble on.
Is anyone else thinking that Prado should be moved to SS? I mean Alex Gonzalez could be traded as part of a package to get an outfielder… doubt it’ll happen, but its a better idea than having a hole in the outfield if/when Chipper gets hurt.
Braves Fan
November 21st, 2010
1:31 pm
Why are still talking about Nate McClouth? He should have been gone long time ago. Go get a damn centerfielder Wren and stop messing around.