Updates on Chipper, Prado, Kawakami
Braves general manager Frank Wren sounds confident that Chipper Jones could be ready to join new slugging second baseman Dan Uggla in the opening day lineup.
Jones is recovering from August knee surgery, and the Braves are hopeful the veteran third baseman will be ready to go when spring training begins in six weeks.
“I think he’s progressed very well,” Wren said. “He had a setback earlier in the winter when he was away for a week — I think he was actually on a hunting trip – and he was not doing the [leg] lifts. But as soon as he got back on his weights, he was fine.
“Right now, talking to the trainers, he should not have any restrictions coming into spring training.”
Jones, who’ll be 39 in April, had surgery for a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee – the same injury — same knee, same surgery — he had more than 16 years ago as a rookie at the end of spring training, which wiped out an entire season.
He’s a lot older now, but surgery techniques have improved and rehab times have been reduced.
If he’s not ready, the Braves plan to move Martin Prado from left field to third and fill left field with players in the organization – Joe Mather, Eric Hinske are among options – or make a trade between now and opening day.
Wren said the Braves continue to explore options for backup outfielders and middle infielders, but would also be comfortable with what they have going into spring training. He said if the team played a game tomorrow, Jordan Schafer would probably be the backup center fielder behind Nate McLouth.
Schafer was the opening day center fielder in 2009, but has missed much of two seasons after breaking a bone in his hand in the 2009 home opener and eventually having surgery that summer. Schafer has been hitting since October and said it’s the first time he’s felt strong and pain-free since the injury.
“We talk every day about guys that are out there,” Wren said, speaking in general about the teams’ ongoing discussions with other clubs. “We get calls every day, and consider different possibilities. I don’t think there’s any big things we’re looking at; it’s all small pieces that might, in some way, fit together in spring training.
“We might not even see the real fit today, but say if this happens and this happens, this guy might be a real good fit on the team. So you start making some of those contingency plans and start protecting yourself with some of the signings from here on out….
“If something drastic happens in the spring, then maybe we’re looking at a different situation. But right now, we like the way our team sets up.”
The Braves would like to have more depth at center field and also the middle infield, where backup options currently are led by Diory Hernandez, Brooks Conrad and six-year minor league free agent Ed Lucas from the Royals.
“There’s always [trade] possibilities,” Wren said. “We don’t have to do anything. So if we find the right match and the right situation, we’ll do something. But we don’t have to do anything.”
Wren said Prado has fully recovered from a September hip pointer and groin pull and should be ready for full activities when spring training begins. The Braves hope that Jones will be, too, but are more concerned with getting the veteran ready before opening day.
“Every discussion I’ve had with [Jones] and the trainers have had with him, is that things are moving along positively,” Wren said. “If we have to make some adjustments, we have a guy that’s a really good third baseman, Martin Prado, and we can put the team together in different ways. We have flexibility.”
Still, they hope it’s Jones at third base.
“He’s a big part of the lineup, no question,” Wren said. “He’s not the Chipper Jones of his MVP year in ‘99, we know that. But he makes a difference, and we saw that in August and September after we lost him.”
Kawakami update: Wren continues looking for the right trade proposal for starting pitcher Kenshin Kawakami, who is owed $6.7 million in the final year of his contract and does not have a spot in the Braves’ rotation plans. Wren said that two or three major league teams have offered to pay more than$2 million of what Kawakami is owed, but the Braves are not willing to trade him just to dump whatever part of his salary they can.
With at least seven or eight teams still needing starting pitchers and few remaining unsigned free-agent options, the Braves seem confident they will be able to trade Kawakami to a team willing to pay a larger portion of his salary.
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179 comments Add your comment
Bravos 25
January 6th, 2011
9:21 pm
First
Braves Forever
January 6th, 2011
9:26 pm
Thanks for the update. Hope they can trade Kawakami soon.
Antwon
January 6th, 2011
9:30 pm
First! This as close I have every been to the top.
Asheville Dawg
January 6th, 2011
9:33 pm
forth?
Reid Adair
January 6th, 2011
9:36 pm
“…but the Braves are not willing to trade him just to dump whatever part of his salary they can.”
That should say, “…but FRANK WREN IS not…”. Wren probably still thinks Kenshin Kawakami is a big-time pitcher.
JMar
January 6th, 2011
9:38 pm
More than $2 million is more than has been speculated the last few months; good to see we have options.
Big Deal
January 6th, 2011
9:38 pm
KK must go at whatever price.
Kenshin's Jock
January 6th, 2011
9:39 pm
I uh amm a dry as sushi as I gets no play next year wid d braves!
Feeanch
January 6th, 2011
9:42 pm
DOB, it seems that Wren gives consistently great interviews and is as forthcoming as any GM out there? How does he rank on the journalistic front?
Kwikbill
January 6th, 2011
9:42 pm
10th?
Dedication
January 6th, 2011
9:52 pm
Chipper seems really dedicated to getting ready for preseason (Hunting instead of rehabbing). TYPICAL
bravesfan
January 6th, 2011
9:54 pm
I had hopes of Young making the Team. Guess Wren has already decided on Schafer. Good to hear that a trade is still possible. Hope Chipper can keep it together this year..
Can’t wait till Fredi and the Braves open in Atlanta.
GT Alum
January 6th, 2011
10:01 pm
Dedication -
You expect the guy to work 24/7 on rehabbing? I guess you never take a vacation?
GT Alum
January 6th, 2011
10:06 pm
bravesfan -
I read that as the Braves still have a lot of hope for Schafer. I think both players will have a shot in ST. However, if it’s close, it sounds like Schafer would get the nod over Young.
That’s really the opposite of what some folks (including me) would’ve expected. I personally would’ve thought they’d like to give Schafer a starting spot in AAA to get some ABs and really build his confidence (not to mention see what he can do). However, maybe FW thinks our fourth OF will get a significant number of ABs this year.
NORRIS
January 6th, 2011
10:12 pm
amazing…they still list mather as an option in left. The guy SUCKS.
Hinske is not an everyday outfielder and is a poor one at that. he is more of a first base back up and pinch hitter.
And schaffer?? oh my God. the guy was sent to double A last year and now he is all of a sudden our back up center fielder. So we have a triple a player in center with a Double a player as his back up.
sounds like we are ready for spring training…lol. I am ready to see these guys perform so that management can start realizing the plan better have an escape clause.
Innocent Bystander
January 6th, 2011
10:14 pm
FW missed his chance when Washington was looking to deal Willingham. Oakland didn’t give up a whole lot for him.
GT Alum
January 6th, 2011
10:29 pm
Innocent Bystander -
I assume there’s 2 reasons the Braves didn’t trade for Willingham.
1) The Braves really believe (hope?) that McLouth can come back and be productive this year, and they’re not willing to write off that they’re going to have to eat his salary in addition to part of KK’s, and they expect Chipper to play a majority of the season. They’re not looking for a starting OF because they couldn’t get everyone enough ABs, just a back-up.
2) Even if you add up all the money they gave Linebrink, Sherrill and Proctor, it wouldn’t add up to what Willingham is making this year, and the calculations that I have seen all say the Braves are right up against their budget, even accounting for not having to pay all of KK’s salary. And without those guys, EOF and Moylan would’ve been the only relievers we had with much experience, and I don’t think the Braves were comfortable with a BP that young.
GT Alum
January 6th, 2011
10:32 pm
Oh, and another thing regarding Willingham – just because the Marlins gave us Uggla for less than equal value doesn’t mean the Nationals would’ve done the same thing. Washington sent him to the other league. They might not have wanted to trade him in division. Not that they have a prayer of being competitive this year, but there’s also a danger they could’ve had to face him for years to come if they had dealt him to Atlanta.
justin1
January 6th, 2011
10:38 pm
I love Chipper the player, but I’m not sold that he’s 100% dedicated to his own health. He’s attempting a comeback at the age of 39 so obviously he still has the passion to play the game. I, as a fan, appreciate that. But if he’s just going to continue to hamstring us like he has been, then it’s probably just that time. Time to hang em up and face life without Chipper Jones as our 3 hole hitting 3rd baseman. He’s given us a great 15 or so years, but all good things have to come to an end. His end should’ve been 2010. Go out with Bobby, get elected to the HOF in 5 years, and in a couple of years become the hitting coach.
Just a side note:
Imagine if he hadn’t traded Elvis Andrus
1. Andrus
2. Prado
3. Heyward
4. Uggla
5. McCann
6. Freeman
7. Schafer
8. Hinske
Wow.
Danlee
January 6th, 2011
10:46 pm
Kawakami isn’t as bad a pitcher as everyone seems to believe, he will easily earn a starting rotation somewhere not named Atlanta. Wren is being smart about this, because there’s going to be a team that runs out of pitching options and is forced into signing a pitcher to fill a spot in the rotation. Sounds like Wren might get off the hook for 3 mil of his salary. That’ll free up a few million on the payroll to possibly nab a backup middle infielder- though I doubt the Braves will sign anyone else until the season begins.
Rob
January 6th, 2011
10:49 pm
Many teams have a left fielder with limited range, but who can hit for power. Why not put Chipper in left and Prado at third? There is more running in left field, but not the constant diving and difficult throws that put a lot of torque on the knee that you get at third base. It seems like many of Chipper’s injuries, including the blown knee last year, have come while playing defense.
@justin
January 6th, 2011
10:49 pm
Justin,
Frankie didnt that was JS. I think the NL is weak this year again outside of the waste land that is philly. If the Braves stay injury they’ll be riding the Wild Card in. By the way, Colordao went all out on CGone. After one year that seems foolish.
darrell starks
January 6th, 2011
10:50 pm
Is it possible for the brave 2 trade jair jurjens for ryan braun, the brewer are desperate for pitching, the trade works good for both team plus we give them our top prospect from minor.
GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!!!
darrell starks
January 6th, 2011
10:54 pm
If im the braves i make this trade.
JAIRE JURJENS AND FREEMAN FOR BRAUN.
GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!!!!
darrell starks
January 6th, 2011
10:57 pm
Freeman play left field for brewers and hinske play first base for the braves.
GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!!!!!
John Galt
January 6th, 2011
10:59 pm
I’m still betting on a Schaffer surprise. He was rated tremendously high, started great, and was injured. Nothing here says that when healthy, he picks up where he left off and provides the CF and LOH we need.
With McLouth’s arm, I’d rather have Schaffer hit .235 and be in the OF than Nate.
GT Alum
January 6th, 2011
11:01 pm
Rob -
Chipper moved to LF once, didn’t like it, wasn’t very good defensively, and his offense suffered those 2 years. There’s also something to be said for the fact that Chipper knows how to play 3B. He may not be a gold glove 3B, but I don’t think anyone charges the roller, picks it up barehanded and throws it to 1B as well as he does. You put him in LF, and he might be as bad as Garrett Anderson was.
darrell starks
January 6th, 2011
11:02 pm
BRAVES 2011
1.MCLOUTH CF
2.PRADO 3RD BASE
3.HEYWARD RF
4.BRAUN LF
5.UGGLA 2ND BASE
6.MCCANN CATCHER
7.HINSKE 1ST BASE
8.ALEX SS
GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!!!!!
Brother John
January 6th, 2011
11:03 pm
The Braves have been waiting on McLouth and Schafer for what, at least three years now. That’s long enough. Find a player to play that important position and move on. The train has left the station and these two haven’t even left the house!
GT Alum
January 6th, 2011
11:07 pm
Brother John, it’s been 2 years since Schafer started the season in CF, and McLouth wasn’t terrible when the Braves acquired him partway through last year. I’m not very optimistic about a McLouth resurgence, but it wasn’t that long ago he was at least serviceable.
Billy
January 6th, 2011
11:14 pm
NORRIS – are you aware of why the Braves former starting CF’er and former #1 prospect was sent to AA? He had a broken wrist that required surgery and he should have been DL’d so it could heal properly. The Braves did not DL him and he tried to play through the healing process. Schafer has been hitting since October in Lake Buena Vista Florida and has announced his wrist is strong and pain free for the first time since his surgery two years ago.
As for Mather, he is one of the best athletes on the team and he too is recovering and recovered from injuries. He was scheduled to be the Cardinals starting 3rd baseman in 2009 when his injury occured. The man can mash when healthy.
Chipper's workout Partner
January 6th, 2011
11:21 pm
I’m 100% confident Chipper would not have had such a steep dropoff the last few years if he would have had been more comitted to off season conditioning/workouts. Could have reduced the nagging every day injuries. We all get older Chip….
jackets445
January 6th, 2011
11:27 pm
ok for all the people that is worried about chippers health..sure it may be a queston whether or not he can bounce back..but chipper bounces back from every surgery he has ever had with decent numbers to say the least..but if the braves end up parting ways with chipper they will still owe him for the next couple of seasons…over the last couple of years chipper has defered his salary so we could free up payroll..so we might as well give him a shot to play since we are paying him until he is 41..he is still a way above average player.
Ricardo In Atlanta
January 6th, 2011
11:31 pm
At least we aren’t the Angels…my old team is looking old, unsettled in a lot of positions, having Scott Boros clients coming up for UFA soon…The Braves have lost a lot of depth at several positions as of the last few years, starting with a certain pitcher starting for the Cardinals for J.D. Drew, but at least they still have viable, young options for restocing the shelf. I think Mathers is going to rock at AAA this year, and take over at 3B next year after Chipper retires…and I wouldn’t be surprised to see a (finally) healthy Jordan S. start taking some playing time from another trade that looked good on paper, but hasn’t hit his stride…I feel better about my adopted team than my “hometown” Angels…
luangtom
January 6th, 2011
11:46 pm
Turn out the lights, the party’s over…………….
G. Tampa Bedwetter
January 6th, 2011
11:53 pm
Wish Bobby was here to steer this ship.
Chris
January 6th, 2011
11:54 pm
Schafer struggled after he broke his wrist … that led to the .200 batting average. We are talking about the same Schafer that homered in his first AB against Philly.
Give Schafer a shot in Spring Training. If he utilizes his speed, and works on being able to bunt for hits, we could see him steal time away from McLouth, forcing Nate to play left to spell Prado. He is only – what – 24. He still has plenty of opportunity. I expect he’ll see time this year on 25 man roster. Then Wren will look like a genius when all he has to do is find middle infield help.
Chris
January 6th, 2011
11:58 pm
line up come June:
Schafer CF
Prado 1B/LF
Heyward RF
Uggla 2B
Chipper 3B
Mac C
Gonzo SS // Hinske LF/1B
Freeman 1B // Gonzo SS
Gwinnett Fred
January 6th, 2011
11:59 pm
Is KK’s contract guaranteed? If not, what would they save by just flat cutting him?
David O'Brien
January 7th, 2011
12:10 am
Is KK’s contract guaranteed? If not, what would they save by just flat cutting him? — Gwinnett Fred
Of course it’s guaranteed. All multi-year deals like that are guaranteed in baseball. Nothing like the NFL.
Chris
January 7th, 2011
12:12 am
fred:
yes, and 400K – the league minimum – that’s what the team that claims him would have to pay.
Mike McDonald
January 7th, 2011
12:37 am
The big IFs of 2011: Chipper, Freeman, McLouth, Schafer and yes, Hayward. If three out of five perform well, the Braves will be serious contenders. Freddi, as manager, will add at least 7-10 additional victories over Cox. Gonzo coming to life would be a big help, as well.
ArkyTech
January 7th, 2011
12:37 am
Danlee, please don’t try to talk rationally about KK on this blog. Not many on here are willing/able to do it.
Bravesfan79
January 7th, 2011
1:04 am
Darrell… are u sure your not a Brewers fan?? Trade Jurrjens… our most clutch pitcher? yea right!
tbrown
January 7th, 2011
1:19 am
Bring Andruw Jones Back!!!!!!!!!
Bravesfan79
January 7th, 2011
1:20 am
Fred: wow man, you dissed me on the other blog for not knowing college football as well as you. Well i see one sport in which u obviously don’t know crap about! But if your a fellow Braves/ Falcons fan.. its all good man… your excused this time from that idiotic question.
ray k.
January 7th, 2011
1:23 am
Jurrjens is our most clutch pitcher? No. Trade him and a prospect for a damn outfielder please.
ray k.
January 7th, 2011
1:30 am
It seems like we go thru this year after agonizing year: one solid off season acquisition, a game of musical chairs in left/center, a third starter posing as our ace, an injury, a knee jerk trade to plug the hole in the dam at the deadline, and no penant.
Bravesfan79
January 7th, 2011
1:33 am
I still think of KK’s duels against the Red Sox and see him as a good pitcher for 6 innings. Therefore we should get something better than 2 mill in return for KK. I would like him as a 6th/ emergency starter for us, but we have so many young pitchers not named Hanson and JJ that i don’t see that happening.
Sure hope Chipper is taking this offseason more seriously than he did the last, sometimes it seems to me he takes his God given ability for granted. And you just cant do that at almost 40
Bravesfan79
January 7th, 2011
1:42 am
The only negative on JJ is that his agent is Boras. JJ and Hudson are our top 2 no doubt. I agree with Mark Bradley, that in the postseason, defense/pitching is more important than offense. I really think we have enough offense now, we certainly dont need to be giving away our top pitching.
Martin
January 7th, 2011
1:46 am
do i need to start a “Sign Andruw Jones” campaign? seriously! he will take $1MIL….give the fans what they want wren!
darrell starks
January 7th, 2011
1:48 am
Bravesfan79 you can be serious, brian brun for jj and freeman you wouldn’t make that deal? you put brun in the line up with heyward, uggla, mccann, prado this team would better than any one in the NL.
GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!!
darrell starks
January 7th, 2011
2:00 am
Bravesfan79
1.MCLOUTH CF
2.PRADO 3B
3.HEYWARD RF
4.BRUN LF
5.UGGLA 2ND
6.MCCANN CATCHER
7.HINSKE 1B
8.ALEX SS
PLUS YOU HAVE A COUPLE PITHCHER IN THE MINOR YOU COULD BRING UP WITH LOW, HANSON, HUDSON, JULIO WILL DOMINATE THE MAJORS.
WORLD SERIES.
GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!!!
darrell starks
January 7th, 2011
2:05 am
MY BAD RYAN BRUN
GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!
Bobby's Cox
January 7th, 2011
2:05 am
The longer we wait on KK, the more of his salary another team will pay. He’s not a bad pitcher (not that good either), but he’ll be needed by someone in spring when injuries start to deplete staffs around baseball.
Bobby's Cox
January 7th, 2011
2:07 am
I’m really looking forward to the Beechy/Minor battle this spring….
Bobby's Cox
January 7th, 2011
2:12 am
Also looking forward to how Schafer performs this spring, this Lucas kid also, as well as Matt Young. I think Diory is a good ballplayer though the blog doesn’t generally think so. Prado will probably get a lot of run this spring because he’ll have to field both LF and 3B in case Chipper isn’t ready. The Chipper watch should be entertaining as well.
There will be some cool things to watch in a about 6 weeks….
Bobby's Cox
January 7th, 2011
2:15 am
Dang, didn’t even mention seeing how Freddi manages the team, the Kimbrel/Venters show, Freeman, etc…
Lots of material for the beat writers….
darrell starks
January 7th, 2011
2:16 am
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=21UDtqF1YS8
Bravesfan79
January 7th, 2011
2:24 am
Im with u Martin. Sign Andrew!!
Bravesfan79
January 7th, 2011
2:26 am
I would only trade JJ if we couldnt sign him to a long term deal. I dont care if were getting Tex in return.
Mitchell
January 7th, 2011
2:41 am
NRBQ
January 6th, 2011
10:26 pm
You naysayers are overlooking one shining positive for 2011.
Bobby’s gone.
Hell to the yes. I always like being reminded of that.
Hallelujah, Bobby’s gone. Amen brutha.
Bobby's Cox
January 7th, 2011
3:06 am
You naysayers are overlooking one shining positive for 2011.
Bobby’s gone
I know it’s been a while since I blogged, but I haven’t gone anywhere….
Wow....
January 7th, 2011
3:12 am
Schafer’s going to bomb in spring training. Mark it down.
The dude has always been an overhyped piece of trash
David O'Brien
January 7th, 2011
6:15 am
Schafer’s going to bomb in spring training. Mark it down. — Wow….
You mean like he “bombed” the last time he was healthy in spring training, in 2009? When he was arguably the best player in camp and went from non-roster invitee to opening day center fielder?
Southpaw
January 7th, 2011
6:40 am
Andruw could replace Diaz as an outfielder/pinch hitter AND platoon with Freeman if needed.
Let's Go
January 7th, 2011
7:10 am
If Jordan Shafer is healthy and is hitting like he was in the spring of 2009 then he could very easily end up the starting CF on opening day. That is unless Nate McLouth doesn’t regain is 07/08 form.
Let's Go
January 7th, 2011
7:11 am
Dave
Would the Braves package Kawakami with a top prospect just to get another team to take most if not all of his contract?
Papadawg
January 7th, 2011
7:35 am
We need a everyday third baseman. You folks need to quit living in the past. Chipper was very good but hes 39 now and you’re in fantasy land if you think you’ll get more than 50 games out of him.
ramblingman
January 7th, 2011
7:35 am
DOB – thank you for a bit of intelligent logic to offset a string of looney tune posts.
My goodness, you would think this is a Phillies or Mets blog with all the Braves bashing going on.
For those of you who are still bashing on Schafer for last year, gee, you know we really did not see much from Medlen, Prado or Chipper late last year, so let’s dump all of them too.
Injuries, shminjuries
.
Van Lingle Mungo
January 7th, 2011
7:38 am
Is Mordecai Peter Centennial Brown still available?
El Bravo
January 7th, 2011
7:45 am
DOB, I believe it is anterior cruciate ligament not crucial. Minor correction.
El Bravo
January 7th, 2011
7:47 am
it is crucial that he gets it fixed…
jo
January 7th, 2011
7:48 am
Playing devil’s advocate, KK started to come around his first season here to be benched. He never came back from that. There is something there that is quality but at this point, I think the Braves should take the 2 million and run.
dap
January 7th, 2011
7:51 am
DOB: Thanks for the updates.
MAKO
January 7th, 2011
7:51 am
I don’t know about Jones, twice had my knees done and the hardest part was toward the end of rehab and the scar tissue inside the knee.
El Bravo
January 7th, 2011
7:57 am
DOB, what’s the market for someone like Rocco Baldelli, Gabe Kapler or Scott Podsednik? Can any of them be good fits to provide outfield depth? Podsednik is probably outside our budget but the other two could fit…
luv them braves
January 7th, 2011
8:01 am
You can say what you want about Chipper, but the guy willingly moved to LF several years ago to help the team. He was not even an All Star as an outfielder. He is most likely a Hall of Famer as a 3rd baseman.
Same goes for Smoltz. He may have hurt his HoF chances by moving to the bullpen for the few seasons he did.
Both guys are true “team” players.
sleeze
January 7th, 2011
8:02 am
Starks, you’re an idiot. Thank goodness our GM is not.
Matt Diaz
January 7th, 2011
8:17 am
With the Phillies adding another stud lefthanded pitcher, you should have never traded me. I am a better LF than Hinske and Mather and can hit lefties better than anyone. Just Dumb.
Arkie
January 7th, 2011
8:36 am
As another BB year draws closer, I still see Ifs, Maybe’s. Hope’s, etc. Power improved, maybe, pitching, hoping, defense, lacking and team speed not improved. Any players signed with Boras try to trade for equal value. Why? Chances of signing them on our Braves payroll are slim. We had great pitching a few years ago with not enough money left for run producers. Lets do not get into “all the money going to four or five players, again”. Again alot of question marks.
# 1 guestion – Chipper Will he play 100 games??
#2 question McLouth Is he worth playing 100 games or more??
#3 Jason Major League pitching started to make him average late last year??
#4 Prado, how will he do as an OF. Will this effect his hitting??
#5 Gonzo looks average in everthing??
#6 Rookie 1st baseman??
#7 Experienced Closer??
We have capable starting pitching, (all need to be in better shape and pitch later into most games – or our relief pitchers will be worn out by mid August, again.) capable relief pitching, Closer??
If five of the Question Marks have Good Years and Fredi does not try to imitate Bobby, we have a shot at the Phillies. IF.
Lemke's Knuckleball
January 7th, 2011
8:39 am
Very good news that they have a couple of offers for Kawakami. And I’m glad Wren’s playing it slow. I’m willing to bet some team desperate for a back-end rotation guy will pay $4 mil and throw in a low/mid-level prospect.
But as a Carolina Panther fan, not even a trade of Kawakami would ease the pain from today’s news that Andrew Luck’s staying at Stanford.
And I know there’s no point in saying this, but the lineup posts with Ryan Braun really makes me think people have lost their minds.
A
January 7th, 2011
8:39 am
Uhhh, you weren’t traded, “Matt Diaz.” You were non-tendered. I think you better have a talk with your agent.
Arthur Redding, Jr.
January 7th, 2011
8:41 am
Wouldn’t it be fun to see a good competitive battle for CF between Schafer and McLouth this spring. If Chipper doesn’t hold up, we could have McLouth in LF and Schafer in CF, both hitting, say, .270+. Along with Heyward, that would be a very solid, fast outfield.
. . . though I know that’s a lot to hope for.
Matt Diaz’s best days are probably behind him (though I’d love to see him do well–he always seemed like a very likable player).
Mather could prove to be a solid pick up.
If Freeman comes through, this could be a fun team to watch.
If Kimbrel and Venters can confirm last year’s performances and take care of the 8th and 9th innings, this team could win at least 5 more games than last year.
A lot of ifs, but I think there are solid reasons for optimism. Signing Uggla was a hugely positive move.
Lemke's Knuckleball
January 7th, 2011
8:47 am
Arkie, I disagree with your #3 question. Jason hit over .300 from July through the end of the year, and had a .936 OPS in August. I don’t call that average, especially for a rookie. He just had that one bad month in June when his thumb was messed up. If anything, I would say pitchers made some adjustments to get him out, and then he made adjustments to counteract that and had success, which to me suggests he’ll be just fine next year.
Booby's Blunders
January 7th, 2011
9:00 am
Let’s see if I have this straight — Instead of having been able to spend 15 million in the free agent market on a star player who could have really helped them, the Braves have the 15 million tied up in a part time, really poor defensive third baseman, who (regardless of his being a great great hitter in the past) has not really been productive for two years and is now also recovering from a serious injury – BUT CHOOSES TO GO HUNTING FOR A WEEK INSTEAD DOING HIS REHAB PROGRAM — So much for his dedication to what is best for the team.
Booby's Blunders
January 7th, 2011
9:02 am
Instead of needing more “back up” for Center Field, Don’t you mean that – they need a Centerfielder period
Dave
January 7th, 2011
9:08 am
Chipper is 39 years and old every year injuries are going to happen. He is no longer much of a slugger at all. Some of our fans did not know when it was time for us to get rid of Glavine or Smoltz they will think exactly the same thing in regards to Chipper. Nostalgia is a great thing, but it has not place in determining how you manage a baseball team. We pay Chipper way too much money based on what he has done in the past and it hurts us in the present. Reality is if Chipper plays he should bat 8th based on his current production as a batter.
Tyler
January 7th, 2011
9:08 am
I agree with Wren. I think Schafer will bounce back this spring and show that he’s a MLB player. I look forward to Saturday as I’m planning my Spring Training vacation now. DOB- Outside of Disney, what other stadium would you suggest to add?
Q: Why does Canizares always seem to get the snub? Is he like Soriano from the movie Major Leage and he can’t hit curve ball? Guy swings a really nice bat. You’d think that someone in the AL would want him as a DH. Would the Braves not think to bring him up and showcase for potential trade bait? Don’t quite get why he hasn’t been looked at harder for PH opportunities or 1B off the bench.
Arthur Redding, Jr.
January 7th, 2011
9:17 am
No, doubt about it, Chipper is a real question mark–but Wren is aware of this. It underscores the importance of signing Uggla.
No doubt about it, Canizares can hit and it would be interesting to see what he can do with major league pitching over an extended time–but he’s very weak defensively. Nobody seems to know what to do with the guy except let him continue to wear out AAA pitching. Maybe we could trade him to Pittsburgh or Kansas City!
Gene
January 7th, 2011
9:21 am
I don’t think that Fredi will continue to play a CFielder who bats .170. I am hoping that Nate proves me wrong.
Fredi's Fu Manchu
January 7th, 2011
9:41 am
Schafer in CF is the answer if he’s healthy. Braves/he say he’s healthy. His bat is merely icing. Good teams are strong up the middle. McCann is OK, that’s it. Uggla is below avg., AGon is OK. Schafer is defensively somewhere in top 5 in CF in baseball. If you’ve seen him at all for extended periods of time you know this is not an exaggeration. McClouth’s bat was bad, yes – but the aspect of his game that was most frustrating was hid D – he won a gold glove, I know – so did Derek Jeter.
Nova Scotia Steve
January 7th, 2011
9:49 am
I’m as big a Chipper Jones fan as (most) anyone out there….but his uncertainty and questions surrounding his durability have somewhat hampered the Braves this off season.
Hope he can come back and be productive because the line-up is pitched much different and is much more deeper when he’s in it – but that’s a lot of money and an important position and spot in the batting order to be relying on a 39 year-old coming off major surgery.
AJ
January 7th, 2011
9:50 am
FYI DOB, Jim Carrey and The Black Keys on SNL this weekend.
MAKO
January 7th, 2011
9:51 am
Lordy, I just hope the Braves hit better than UGA’s football team
big o
January 7th, 2011
9:53 am
Don’t get me wrong yall I’m a huge Chipper Fan but we are fooling ourselves if we think he will make a contrbution this year. At 39 after this surgery ? The slow roller down the line, crossing the diamond in front of short, the ability to chase dowm foul balls in all that space at the Ted, not to mention runing the bases plus the normal little Chipper injuries that occur. I’m thinking 60 games tops if that. I hope yall appreciated watching this HOF player because it’s over.
ramblingman
January 7th, 2011
9:56 am
1. Name one team that does not have any questions. Just one. (listening to those crickets again)
2. Chipper’s such a huge hole for the team, such a drag on the order….wonder why he was hitting .307 with a .924 OPS after the break. Hmmm…darn, don’t you hate it when facts get in the way of a good whiny post?
3. Yepper, any time off to do anything at all – hunt, eat, sleep, spend Christmas with family – can be reasonably counted as disregarding rehab and a lack of dedication. Suuure.
yogi2
January 7th, 2011
10:13 am
Jordan Scfafer has hit only 39 home runs in six years of loe minor league baseball. he needs to prove himself in Gwinnett or Misssissippi before making the major league club. He was also juiced up( suspended from baseball) when he hit those measly homeruns
Chipper Jones “should not have any restrictions coming into spring training” | HardballTalk
January 7th, 2011
10:16 am
[...] knee and dry-heaving on his neighbor’s lawn, and yesterday general manager Frank Wren told David O’Brien of the Atlanta Journal Constitution that he should be ready for Opening Day: I think he’s [...]
PMC
January 7th, 2011
10:20 am
I’m really high on the team for this next season. I still love the overall plan that Wren is working on. I love a healthy Schafer as a backup outfielder who could start if need be. Schafer has good speed, and that’s going to be more of an asset than hitting home runs next year.
Kawakami will be moved at the right time I have no doubt.
I really like the way the team looks at this point this year, stronger than last season. Sure, the Phillies are better. Can’t do anything about that but this club can compete with them and if they don’t win the division they WILL win the Wild Card and get into the tournament.
I think the Braves will be a 95-100 win club next year.
Fredi's Fu Manchu
January 7th, 2011
10:30 am
yogi2 – Your post is contradictory, isn’t it? Juiced and 39 HR’s in 6 yrs. Always been @ 200lbs. Never has anyone said what a difference in body type from one season to the next. I think he was guilty of something and he’s said/inferred as much, but also saying he never used. Logical inference is he was around people who were using. And maybe he should have spoken up and named names. But maybe naming those names would have made his future exponentially more difficult in MLB than a 50 game suspension. Like it or not, there is a code of silence – especially in male dominated fields – cops, military, athletes. You do not want to be known as the nark. Ask Larry Bigbie how that worked out for him?
bvillebaron
January 7th, 2011
10:35 am
yogi2:
Schafer wasn’t juiced up when he hit that homerun on opening day in 2009. Besides, no one ever projected him to hit 20 homeruns. No one knows whether he can get back to how he looked in the spring of 2009, but you and his other critics conveniently overlook the fact that he had a serious wrist injury which required surgery and has a long recovery time. It is ridiculous to bury a kid who flashed that kind of talent (after he was no longer on HGH) and is still only 24 years old.
yogi2
January 7th, 2011
10:37 am
Schafer stats speak volumes about him. Braves have other minor league player with better stats. I believe they just signed a triple A fielder that was an all-star. Check it out dummy
TheTruthHurts
January 7th, 2011
10:41 am
I shouldn’t have asked for the Quadraphonic Blaupunkt for Christmas. A Chipper retirement and a Mark Richt termination would have done just fine.
Chipper will go down in history as the laziest great player of all time. He’s good for at least two pulled hammy’s a year – not to mention all the other nagging injuries that will crop up – but could be avoided if he would just get off his lazy, rich butt. If this doesn’t sum it up nothing does…”He had a setback earlier in the winter when he was away for a week — I think he was actually on a hunting trip – and he was not doing the [leg] lifts. But as soon as he got back on his weights, he was fine.”
Stay in the woods, Chipper.
Braves trying to trade pitcher with 1-10 record | Ben Maller
January 7th, 2011
10:43 am
[...] in the final year of his contract and does not have a spot in the Braves’ rotation plans. Wren said that two or three major league teams have offered to pay more than$2 million of what Kawa…, but the Braves are not willing to trade him just to dump whatever part of his salary they can. [...]
Rico Brogna
January 7th, 2011
10:44 am
Trade for Michael Young! He can play 3rd base, 2nd base, and the corner outfield spots.
atlwolf
January 7th, 2011
10:44 am
Your sign Andruw campaign would only have one member: yourself. He’s gone, crybabies, and he ain’t coming back. Deal with it.
Jeff
January 7th, 2011
10:47 am
I rather have Matt Young, he’s better in center-field than Schafer, IMO. Schafer is really overrated defensively, he’s not as bad as McLouth though. Plus, Schafer needs to play in the minors a bit before serious consideration.
Yogi
January 7th, 2011
10:50 am
I’ll be surprise is Chipper can play 75 games in 2011.I’m pulling for him but he has been struggling for 2 years.I don’t see him hitting over 250 this year…We still need his power at the plate..to be more consistant.
Where did Glaus and Derrick Lee go. Did any team pick them up..?
Jeff
January 7th, 2011
10:51 am
Micheal Young isn’t good defensively, that’s why Texas is replacing him at third. He also makes too much for someone who’s better as DH than in the field. If the Braves were an American League team I’d be fine with him. I’d also consider him if we didn’t have Freeman at 1st, etc.
LTBF
January 7th, 2011
10:59 am
Don’t know how you folks and the Braves front office think we will be ok with either Jordan or nate in CF, please not another year of our CFers hitting in the .230s, that being said it is our only weak position. I think the Braves have a good chance to win division.
Lemke's Knuckleball
January 7th, 2011
11:01 am
Based on what I saw from Schafer in 2009 before the wrist injury, I think he’s a legitimate major league talent capable of being a consistent .280 hitter good for 30+ doubles, 10-15 homers, 20+ stolen bases and well above-average defense in center. Kind of reminds me of Kelly Johnson offensively, but again I must point out the well above-average defense in center. I admit he must prove himself, but the tools are there folks.
Ted M
January 7th, 2011
11:05 am
I wish the Braves had Edgar Renteria instead Alex Gonzalez. I just don’t like Gonzo.
Fred Ketchum
January 7th, 2011
11:08 am
We still need backups at the infield and outfield positions. Everything else seems ready to go. I hope Uggla is as good as they think he will be. Good luck to the Braves for 2011.
Ted M
January 7th, 2011
11:16 am
It is much easier to hit a home run at Turner field then at the Marlins park (Sun Life).
Uggla is going to work out great for the Braves.
The Braves could have gotten Renteria too. One of the best post season hitter of all time.
Smitty
January 7th, 2011
11:21 am
Has Andruw spoiled us forever?!!
A CF/leadoff man does not need to hit home runs.
He needs to play good defense, get on base often and put pressure on pitchers as a good base runner…period!
Whoever does that best will be what the Braves need.
J T Ellenwood
January 7th, 2011
11:23 am
atlwolf there would be two people bring Andruw back
Ted M
January 7th, 2011
11:28 am
3 people…Offer Andruw a minor league contract, tell him to report to spring training no heavier the 210 lbs and compete for a roster spot.
tdmorgan
January 7th, 2011
11:39 am
for all those bashing Chipper, don’t forget the numbers after the all-star break and the fact that before the all-star break he was still getting on base at a high percentage because pitchers still know how dangerous of a hitter he is. Sure, he is out of shape right now…he just had major surgery and I am pretty sure every single one of you would be wheezing after just starting to run again after a few months of non running exercise.
sportsmandh
January 7th, 2011
11:42 am
I still think he has a lot of upside, but I’m not super confident in Schaefer. I saw him play in August, towards the end of the year in AA. He looked terrible. I know he was still recovering, readjusting after the wrist injury, whatever. I also saw him in AA several years ago, before his original suspension. Both times I’ve seen him in person, I was underwhelmed about him compared to his hype. His batspeed looked just as slow last year as it did over two years ago, and that was against AA pitching. Couple that with the high strikeout total he had during his stint in the bigs (wrist injury or not), that is what causes me concern about him. In the plus department, I will say he looked really good defensively, he is definately a plus outfielder. That coupled with his good speed would make him a good bench player. But that doesn’t mean he will ever live up to what some people may think he is going to be.
Sweet Old Buck
January 7th, 2011
11:42 am
PREDICTION! Chipper will come to Spring training fully intending to play. After a short evaluation period, Frank and Ferdi will realize the old geezer just can’t cut it anymore. Moreover, any of the bencg types will not meet the call. Therefore, a trade will take place to get a legitimate left fielder, which will cost us a top line prospect or Jurrjens. Remember! You read it here, first
cARnACK The Magnificent
January 7th, 2011
11:44 am
Jordan Schafer smokes pot with Tim Lincecum
ryan c
January 7th, 2011
11:48 am
how about we take a chance on a rebound candidate that put up this offensive line in 2009:
20HR 70RBI 86Runs 19SB .788OPS
he’s a CF.
Ted M
January 7th, 2011
11:50 am
Jordan Schafer smokes pitches from Tim Lincecum.
Coach13
January 7th, 2011
11:51 am
WHEW!!!! I sure am glad to hear that Chipper will be ready to contribute his .260/15/50 over a 100 game span to the tune of 14 mil a year!!! WHEW!!! What would this lineup do without those kind of impact numbers?!?!
TB
January 7th, 2011
11:54 am
Hey, NORRIS. What part of Schafer’s been injured since his opening day start did you not understand. Do you ever actually read some of the in-depth stories?
Wow....
January 7th, 2011
11:57 am
“You mean like he “bombed” the last time he was healthy in spring training, in 2009? When he was arguably the best player in camp and went from non-roster invitee to opening day center fielder?”
Yeah because producing in ST automatically means future superstar.
I’m guessing when he falls on his face again, the excuse is going to be “oh, he’s still not 100%! Give him a chance!1!!”
Like I said, mark it down.
Kelly's Johnson
January 7th, 2011
12:02 pm
Schafer hit a whopping .201 with three different Braves’ minor league teams last season. He stunk it up in 2009.
McLouth hit .190 for the Atlanta Braves in 2010.
I think its time Frank Wren does some serious upgrading in CF which has been a disaster since Andruw Jones left.
Coach13
January 7th, 2011
12:05 pm
Kelly’s Johnson- Upgrading like going and getting Ellsbury, Upton, or Rasmus?? Maybe giving up some of the young unproven pitching prospects we have in order to get this talent. As long as we were able to lock any one of these players up for 4-5 years it would be worth it. The Braves always draft quality pitching but for some reason drafting a stud bat just isn’t their thing.
Jordan Schafer's Mama
January 7th, 2011
12:06 pm
Leave poor Jordie alone !
He’s finally healthy for once, and steroid-free !
Terry Pendleton has been working with him on his swing. Even Bobby Cox said he’s looked good in the simulated games.
He’ll be the AllStar centerfielder that Frank Wren & the AJC Braves’ beat writers have been predicting all along !
Kelly's Johnson
January 7th, 2011
12:10 pm
I prefer a righthanded hitting Lorenzo Cain, who will be the Royals’ 4th outfielder in 2011. KC needs young pitching & the Braves’ farm system is loaded. With Dayton Moore running the Royals, they would seem to be a natural trade partner. Everybody has a price and nobody is untouchable.
Jacoby Ellsbury would be nice as well, but would cost us more than Cain, as would Rasmus.
David O'Brien
January 7th, 2011
12:22 pm
DOB- Outside of Disney, what other stadium would you suggest to add? — Tyler
Lakeland’s Tigertown is only 45-55 minutes away and a great old-school spring ballpark. Great atmoshphere, and you MUST get a sausage with grilled onions. And if you can do it, the strawberry shortcake there is legendary, tool.
Phillies’ ballpark in Clearwater is the best new ballpark, because it feels old-school but with all the modern amenities. Love that ballpark, just hate the drive most times through Tampa traffic. But once you get to the causeway on other side of downtown, the drive over the bay is beautiful into Clearwater.
yogi2
January 7th, 2011
12:23 pm
Check out our new centerfielder in Gwinnett. Jose Constanza. he hit .
.319 last year at triple A Columbus. He stole 34 bases. look at how good Matt Young has done in Gwinnett. Schafer could play minor league forever and will not be as good. These two deserve a shot much sooner than Schafers
Harpie
January 7th, 2011
12:25 pm
Andruw is a talented idiot – just like Josh Smith.
Mark (another one)
January 7th, 2011
12:30 pm
Which pitcher from the farm system would you suggest trading? Remember, this needs to be a quality pitcher to get a quality position player. Also, get ready to see them every five days for the next 15 years.
Wren has a good team, and he has plans for the future. If Shafer is back, I could see him pushing McLouth to the bench. If he needs more time, put him in AAA. He is a phone call away if there is an injury. Don’t let him sit on the bench.
Shafer CF
Prado LF
Heyward RF
McCann C
Uggla 2nd
Chipper 3rd
Freeman 1st
Gonzales SS
With Mathers, Heinske, McLouth and Ross backing up is a pretty good start for a roster.
I keep coming back to needing a backup at SS and Chipper’s health as the two major concerns. Wren is tracking Chipper but it remains to be seen.
Those of you concerned about his hunting trip need to lighten up. Chipper has always come into spring training in shape and ready to play. Rehab is a grind and a one week break is not going to make any difference in his prep.
Kelly's Johnson
January 7th, 2011
12:31 pm
If Costanza could hit .250 and swipe some bases, he’d be a HUGE upgrade over McLouth & Schafer.
DOB, can you enlighten us about Mr. Costanza ?
David O'Brien
January 7th, 2011
12:33 pm
“Schafer’s going to bomb in spring training. Mark it down.” — Wow…. at 3:12 a.m.
You mean like he “bombed” the last time he was healthy in spring training, in 2009? When he was arguably the best player in camp and went from non-roster invitee to opening day center fielder? — me (DOB) at 6:57 a.m.
“Yeah because producing in ST automatically means future superstar.”– Wow…. at 11:57 a.m.
No further comment necessary.
eric the elder
January 7th, 2011
12:43 pm
This is normally the time of year when I actually start thinking about baseball. I think I should find something else to do.
So if Chipper can’t go, then Prado comes in to 3rd and is replaced by Joe Mather or the fleet-footed Hinske.
And how about Nate in center, ably backed up by a guy who hasn’t played in a couple of years.
And a first baseman who is completely untested, a second baseman who is notoriously poor defensively, and back ups Diory Hernandez, the sure-handed Brooks Conrad, and some guy named Ed from Kansas City.
But as Franks says, “We’re fine where we are. No need to do anything.” Giggle test failure.
Peter
January 7th, 2011
12:44 pm
Where is the SPEED ?
Cool Dude
January 7th, 2011
12:45 pm
All of you people posting lineups with Ryan Braun in them are stupid and annoying. NOT GONNA HAPPEN!
David O'Brien
January 7th, 2011
12:47 pm
Kelly’s Johnson: It’s actually Constanza with two n’s, not Costanza.
He’s a speedy former Indians prospect, 27 years old, hit .319 with eight triples, a .373 on-base percentage and 34 stolen bases in 2010 for their Triple-A Columbus affiliate. He has a .365 OBP and 210 stolen bases in 657 minor league games over six seasons.
Dumbo
January 7th, 2011
12:48 pm
I hope the Braves figure out something between now and the end of Spring Training about what happens when Chumper can’t go. His stats are down, RBI’s down for what the last 3 years, Homer’s down for like 5 years and Batting down last 2 years. With his shaky knee, every team they play is gonna bunt on him and bunt on him to death. I’m sorry folks, but I saw Mantle at the end of his career and it was ugly. I hope this isn’t Chipper.
cs95
January 7th, 2011
12:49 pm
so if schafer has another spring like he did in 09 and mclouth has a average ST (better than last year). what do the braves do? let schafer prove himself at AAA and give mclouth til the all-star break before releasing/trading him?
David O'Brien
January 7th, 2011
12:51 pm
Where is the SPEED ? — Peter
I’d recommend strong coffee. It’s safer.
Chipper Jones
January 7th, 2011
12:52 pm
Offseason is for hunting on the ranch in Texas.
Spring training is for fishing in Florida.
See ya Opening Day – on the disabled list cashing those big paychecks !
SUCKAS !
bravesfan
January 7th, 2011
12:52 pm
Cubs get Garza from Rays..great move for cubs….
ryan c
January 7th, 2011
12:58 pm
they traded their #3,#4, #8, and #15 prospect for Garza. Not a great move…
bravesfan
January 7th, 2011
12:59 pm
Just saying..if Schafer makes team I’ll still pull for team but I have no love for Schafer..I’m pulling for Young are anyone but JS. I really hope Nate has his sh*# together.
Dumbo
January 7th, 2011
1:00 pm
ryan c…..it’s the goats curse, not bad GM’s & silly trades
bravesfan
January 7th, 2011
1:01 pm
ryan c..u may be right and u may be wrong.
Frank Wren
January 7th, 2011
1:20 pm
Having a healthy Chipper Jones is the equivalent of us acquiring an All Star thirdbaseman, a batting champion !
(That should keep the fandom stimulated for awhile, until they finally realize Chipper is strictly part-time and no better than .265)
bravesfaninNashville
January 7th, 2011
1:35 pm
Coach 13…… (The Braves always draft quality pitching but for some reason drafting a stud bat just isn’t their thing)………… Let’s see the Braves traded for both Smoltz and Jurrjens from Detroit. Signed Maddux as a Free Agent away from the Cubs….. But Andruw and Chipper are both minor league products as well as, Klesko, Javy Lopez, Gant, Justice and now McCann, Heyward, Prado and Freeman are minor league developments. I think when 5 or your starting eight besides the pitcher are homegrown and 4 of them have already been all-stars and the 5th one your rookie 1B is a very solid prospect your farm system is doing pretty well. On top of that we STILL have all of the minor league pitching retained after we traded for Uggla. I think the Braves are set up for a long run of success and that has a great deal to do with the fact the we didn’t have to sign all-star players like McCann, Heyward and Prado as free agents and we have them under control for very modest salaries. It’s easy to see the glaring need we have in the outfield and say the Braves farm system can’t draft bats but where would we be without Heyward, McCann, Prado , Freeman and Chipper? Not to mention 60% of our very talented starting rotation and most of our stud bullpen is pitching for the league minimum.
Wow....
January 7th, 2011
1:36 pm
Schafer’s garbage, O’Brien. It’s going to become clear pretty soon.
bravesfaninNashville
January 7th, 2011
1:46 pm
Wow…… Disagree my friend.. Shafer is very talented but has been hurt. A players game shuts down pretty quickly when they have a severe wrist injury. They just can swing a bat without pain or with any authority. Remember he had to have bone grafted and replaced in his wrist. That’s pretty severe if a doctor at the level that Braves retain feel that’s the best way to get him back to playability. If he’s healthy and that remains as a question I think we’ll finally be able to see his true talents on display and I believe he’ll be a great addition to this team..
sportsmandh
January 7th, 2011
1:50 pm
DOB,
Wren eluded in your interview that they get calls daily, I’m assuming regarding utility or backup outfielder discussions. Have you heard rumors of any actual names? Do you know if there has been any mention of Bill Hall? I’m not sure Hall’s status, but he’d be the type backup utility guy that I could see very good for the Braves. We have no good right handed bats off the bench, and Hall can play pretty much any position. He’d be similar to Infante type skills, with lower average and a little more power.
okiebravo
January 7th, 2011
1:58 pm
I love how the so called braves fans bash their own players before anything ever happens. Some of you need to let them play a game or two before you say they’re done. But if you still think you can predict the future, why not play the lottery instead of being the great blog gm’s of the ajc.
Zing
January 7th, 2011
2:03 pm
DOB:
That post around 12:30 was hilarious, man. Kudos to you for taking the time to piece together those inconsistent blog posts!
So, any thoughts on how the organization views Constanza? Like a better Gregor Blanco? I.e., a better backup plan to McLouth/Schafer? If he could maintain that OBP with that speed at the ML level… boy, that would fill a serious need for the Braves. I’m guessing his defense is good, too, which would be nice to see in CF. McLouth seemed to lose his confidence a bit the last year or so in the field.
gcs
January 7th, 2011
2:07 pm
How can Joe Mather be an option? he has 90 MLB games to his credit and has not hit a home run since 2008.
Come on, Pittsburgh. You know you want Kawakami. Pull the trigger.
.
Matt
January 7th, 2011
3:08 pm
Ryan C.- please tell me that the Cubs didn’t really give up that much for Matt Garza!!!! Somebody please tell me they aren’t that stupid!!!
J
January 7th, 2011
4:09 pm
hey dob:
my family and i are going to dark star/spring training. should we buy tickets now or wait til closer to time? thanks!
John
January 7th, 2011
4:47 pm
I cant wait for Jordan to walk into spring training and show all of you haters what he is capable of. McOUT will NOT be our starting center fielder anymore! I dont see Fredi being like Cox and sticking by veterans when they suck. Mark my words Jordan will be the man to beat!
John
January 7th, 2011
4:53 pm
Oh and for all of you Jordan haters, go break your hand and then see how well you swing a damn bat! You idiots obviously dont put yourselves in others shoes. The kid broke his hand, hid it from trainers and others (stupid yes but he didnt want to lose his job….dont tell me you wouldnt do the same!) and then suffered through a very difficult injury and subsequent recovery. The hands are vital to any athlete especially one who swings a damn bat. Jordan HAS the talent and I watched it that opening series against the Phillie’s and so did the Braves team!
hAL
January 7th, 2011
4:59 pm
nope the overg hyped piece of trash plays right field well errr attempts to play right field lol
David O'Brien
January 7th, 2011
6:25 pm
my family and i are going to dark star/spring training. should we buy tickets now or wait til closer to time? thanks! — J
Depends on which game(s) you’re going to. Some sell out early, others don’t come close to selling out.
buckhead willie
January 7th, 2011
7:51 pm
Will anybody EVER be able to convince Chipper to retire? RETIRE already!
David O'Brien
January 7th, 2011
8:00 pm
Will anybody EVER be able to convince Chipper to retire? RETIRE already! — buckhead willie
Let’s see, on one hand Chipper has “buckhead willie” saying “RETIRE already!” And on the other hand, Chipper has two years remaining on a three-year contract and is owed another $28 million, all of which he would sacrifice if he retired (unless he were physically unable to play after attempting his comeback).
He’s also seven doubles from 500, nine RBI from 1,500, 14 homers from 450…. But again, there are some fans who want him to retire. So the scales are pretty even, really. Right? $28 million and the chance to continue adding to a Hall of Fame resume on the one hand, and some fans whose desire is for him to retire on the other.
Nick P.
January 7th, 2011
8:14 pm
I love Chipper, but I wish he would go ahead and retire so we could get a younger version of him with his old pop in the lineup, right now Chipper is worth about 10-12 HR and would probably drive in about 50-60RBIs but i just cant see anything more than that, also, third base is called the hot corner for a reason, and I just cant see his knee holding up after two serious injuries playing that position, Atlanta has to get used to the idea that Chipper will be long and the more we delay this innevitible the less of a chance to make playoffs or to go deep in the playoffs, once again remember I am a huge Chipper fan, but it also happens that I am a realist, and see this thing happening a mile away!
Nick P.
January 7th, 2011
8:18 pm
Hey Dave, I hope you are not saying that Chipper should stay just to bolster his numbers, why? he is already a hall of famer, what does he have to prove anymore, I am sure he does not want to retire and live the rest of life with a permanent limp if his knee for some reason would require a third surgery, and being a Braves lifer, he would want to see the Braves replace him with a younger version of himself, he would root for whoever took his place as long as the ultimate goal is to win another championship, BTW Dave, he has millions of dollars and so I dont see money as a motivating factor anymore!
David O'Brien
January 7th, 2011
9:10 pm
BTW Dave, he has millions of dollars and so I dont see money as a motivating factor anymore! — Nick P.
Amazing how easy it is for someone to suggest that a person should give up $28 million that is owed in a contract, not to mention suggesting that someone should give up his or her chosen profession because, well, this individual with nothing to do with the situation has decided it’s time.
wjones
January 7th, 2011
11:33 pm
You know, Aaron didn’t finish his career as a Brave. Neither did Spahn, Mathews, Niekro, Murphy, Maddux, Glavine (ok he did, but he left for a while), Andruw, or Smoltz. Just once, in Chipper’s case, it would be nice for a Braves star to retire as a Brave. That’s only my opinion. Chipper deserves his salary like few have, especially in light of the many times he has renegotiated to help bring in more players.
Old Man
January 8th, 2011
5:07 am
I am excited about the upcoming season. Fredi will give a fresh prespective. Freddie is will be ROY canidate, and starting pitching should be good. The bullpen will miss Wagoner,however it should be okay.
Just one thing , PLEASE don’t make us fans suffer through Chip Carey. He ain’t skip and makes watching a game like going to the dentist.
Roja
January 8th, 2011
11:54 am
Yep, Kawakami is NOT a bad pitcher. There are a lot of teams out there who have starting pitchers on their Single A affiliates’ rosters that have 8-22 records and are making $8 million a year . There’s the Braves and then there’s ………………………….
BBUA
January 9th, 2011
11:16 am
To those of you that mentioned moving Chipper to left field, it won’t happen. The braves tried that a few years ago and it didn’t work out. He was playing OF when his all of those nagging injuries started. He has made it clear he doesn’t want to return to the OF and why should he. He is a HOF at 3 rd base.
WTF
January 10th, 2011
4:56 am
Chipper in LF makes me laugh. Some of you fools don’t understand his past injuries do you? He is not fit to play the OF what so ever. Strictly 3B.
hAL
January 10th, 2011
12:15 pm
at least sheafers injury was documented unlike the contrived haystack thing that tp dremed up as an excuse for him being late on any decent fastball on the inner half lol
dwaynerice
January 10th, 2011
2:43 pm
Matt Diaz
January 7th, 2011
8:17 am
With the Phillies adding another stud lefthanded pitcher, you should have never traded me. I am a better LF than Hinske and Mather and can hit lefties better than anyone. Just Dumb.
You weren’t traded, Matt..we just didn’t tender you a contract (unfortunately) and got nothing for you. Asleep at the switch.
Sgt. Pepper
January 10th, 2011
10:27 pm
DOB -
I read the article Carroll wrote about the prospects of the Braves’ big 3 being inducted into the Hall of Fame. I was shocked at the end of the article when it was suggested Chipper was not a lock for Cooperstown. Do you see this as simply the opinion of one reporter (which, if memory serves me correctly, is all that Carroll quoted for that particular opinion), or do you think Chipper will be a close call for enshrinement?
jason
January 11th, 2011
3:22 pm
justin1 our lineup now is better than that
G Braves Fan
January 11th, 2011
6:58 pm
Diaz,
Have you ever in your life, taken a level swing?????????????????????