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© 2013 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
2,555 comments Add your comment
cabravesfan
November 1st, 2011
10:34 pm
My Trojans are on ESPN on Friday night- I know you all want to watch!
Kat
November 1st, 2011
10:34 pm
David O’Brien
9:44 pm
Here’s the link to the Bethancourt story: http://www.ajc.com/sports/atlanta-braves/bethancourt-strong-armed-catching-1215024.html
————————————————————-
I always enjoy the personal stories and quotes on guys like Bethancourt. Loved the quotes about when he was five – it made me laugh picturing it. Being the catcher was the coaches attempt at a mental child leash, seems to have worked.
McFann O O o Get Well Soon, Nolie!!
November 1st, 2011
10:35 pm
Soph—
I know what you mean! I disliked Salty because of people that said he’d take BMac’s job—I wasn’t on here yet, and I don’t remember if anyone really teased me about, but still…and it’s irritating, ’cause I don’t like not liking a guy in our own organization…
cabravesfan—
I don’t think I’m s’posed to laugh at that kind of stuff yet…
cabravesfan
November 1st, 2011
10:35 pm
I love waiting more than 30 minutes past the scheduled start time of the show I want to watch so we can all watch Northern Illinois & Toledo not play defense
cabravesfan
November 1st, 2011
10:36 pm
McFann-
OF COURSE YOU ARE! It’s fun
And you know you are thinking it too, even if you don’t admit it 
McFann O O o Get Well Soon, Nolie!!
November 1st, 2011
10:36 pm
cabravesfan—
I know, right?? Dang…
Not that I’m watching the football, but seriously, forks!…
McFann O O o Get Well Soon, Nolie!!
November 1st, 2011
10:37 pm
cabravesfan—
YOU’RE the one who MADE me think it!!!…
PS—Ya know, my Grandpa sometimes reads this Blog, and he knows who I am…
cabravesfan
November 1st, 2011
10:37 pm
I’m in the bedroom, and my dog is STARING at me from the sofa. It’s a little creepy…
McFann O O o Get Well Soon, Nolie!!
November 1st, 2011
10:38 pm
cabravesfan—
That is creepy…
cabravesfan
November 1st, 2011
10:38 pm
McFann-
I have made no inappropriate comments about or to you (and I never will…)
Soph
November 1st, 2011
10:39 pm
Is Nala going to pull an Esco? Are we going to have to trade her to the Blue Jays?
cabravesfan
November 1st, 2011
10:39 pm
McFann-
Did I ever send you the creepy-awesome pic I took of her?
Bill Donohoo
November 1st, 2011
10:39 pm
Move McCann to LF, solves one issue, then concentrate on speed, defense and decent hitters (280 and above) and please teach opposite field hitting. As far as I am concerned Uggla was a bust, did not hit for average, too many solo HRs and too many solo HRs that were hit late and when game out of reach.
McFann O O o Get Well Soon, Nolie!!
November 1st, 2011
10:43 pm
cabravesfan—
I know, I’m just teasing…
And I more meant that for me, like I better watch it… 
Did I ever send you the creepy-awesome pic I took of her?
I don’t think so—I’d love to see it!
DS1
November 1st, 2011
10:45 pm
Most ballplayers are somewhat streaky (except for Stan Musial), but last year Uggla was ULTRA streaky. Otherwise, he is exactly what was advertised.
Just subtract out his first month, and he was roughly the same as his historical record. Bad, great, bad, great, bad, great…………
cabravesfan
November 1st, 2011
10:45 pm
McFann-
On the way
Soph
November 1st, 2011
10:45 pm
What happened to the escape-goat at your front door, McF?
DS1
November 1st, 2011
10:47 pm
Was it an “old goat?”
If so, did you ask it to get back to the blog where it belongs?
DS1
November 1st, 2011
10:50 pm
Boise State in the “Big East”
Well, I have been working out “east” for a couple of days this week. But now I am REALLY out west……………. I think.
Bravo Nam
November 1st, 2011
10:50 pm
Welcome back Nolie!
Brick Head of Snellville
November 1st, 2011
10:52 pm
Lowe was in the dog house in Atl and needed a new start somewhere else. With the money they pay him, why would he care what the fans think anyway. He stunk it up in 2011
DS1
November 1st, 2011
10:55 pm
Brick Head
Lowe didn’t hold a gun to anyone’s head back in the winter of 2008. I don’t begrudge him his money.
And he was just what we needed back in 2009 and 2010.
Glad he’s gone, but I don’t feel any particular need to talk him down.
Bat Masterson
November 1st, 2011
10:58 pm
Move McCann to LF, solves one issue, then concentrate on speed, defense.
Concentrate on speed and ddefense by getting slower in LF. Okay then, sign me up
Bravo Nam
November 1st, 2011
11:00 pm
I’ve been saying for a while now… the Bravos must trade for an innings eating veteran. Apart from Hudson, they’ve got two starters with significant question marks re their durability and health, and a bunch of youngsters. If the Bravos don’t want to completely burn out their bullpen in the first half of the season, they’ve got to trade one of either Hanson or Jurrjens for a dependable arm.
Brave Fan
November 1st, 2011
11:01 pm
Haven’t been able to get on here since the collapse!
Did someone actually suggest moving Mac to LF?
Bravo Nam
November 1st, 2011
11:05 pm
That 2 million owed to Diaz sticks out like a sore thumb. A good contract to move in a trade.
McFann O O o Get Well Soon, Nolie!!
November 1st, 2011
11:05 pm
cabravesfan—
Got it!
Soph—
Don’t know…it wandered up the neighborhood—hope it cann find it’s home…
DS1—
Haha! It was fairly small…
N8
November 1st, 2011
11:07 pm
The fact that Mac was on of the nominees for GG at catcher and Freeman wasn’t at 1B tell me all that I need to know about how accurate that process is.
N8
November 1st, 2011
11:08 pm
Was Chipper nominated at 3B? Because he’s still a better 3B than Mac is a catcher. You wanna talk silver slugger? Might as well engrave Mac’s name on the next 3-4 awards and call it good.
At least until Bethancourt arrives. (that should get McFann going).
DS1
November 1st, 2011
11:08 pm
Bravo Nam
I really don’t expect the Braves to add any starting pitchers. I think they are committed to their youthful prospects. While I agree that guys like Hanson and Jurrjens (and Hudson to a lesser degree) are injury risks, we have a boat load of young starters and potential starters to pull from. Beachy, Minor, Medlen, Teheran, Delgado, Vizcaino, and even Martinez. And right behind is Gilmartin and Hoover and some others I can’t recall right now.
Nah, I really don’t see them adding a starter.
That’s what I think they will do. They need to resolve SS and the bench. The bench includes an outfielder who can hit lefties well.
But for this team to really hit on all cylinders, we need guys like Prado and Heyward to rebound. Big time.
DS1
November 1st, 2011
11:11 pm
Bravo Nam
Pittsburgh is picking up part of Diaz salary for next year. I think I heard about half of it? Not 100% certain about the split though. He sounds a lot better at 1 million. And with a 1 million dollar salary, he’d be easy to dump from the roster if he doesn’t turn things around.
Efrim
November 1st, 2011
11:11 pm
Hmm, so Terdoslavich is being moved back to third base. Even more depth at third base(Salcedo, Drury, Kubitza, Leonard, Franco).
DS1
November 1st, 2011
11:14 pm
A Terd at Third?
I like it………..
He’d be our terd-baseman…
Trey
November 1st, 2011
11:15 pm
So, who do we plan on seeing as our starting five next season?
haggard
November 1st, 2011
11:16 pm
DS1
LOL !
Brave Fan
November 1st, 2011
11:17 pm
Any trade for Diaz shouldn’t even make the sports section. He is a good team guy but he is a below average OF with a below average arm with below average speed for an outfielder that can only get a few singles against lefties.
Now if you tie him in with one of those young guns we could get something. Not all of those young arms will turn into what we all hope. The guys running the organization suppose to have guys that evaluate talent and make those determinations. Its not that hard but it baffles me at times how screwed up some of them get it. We never heard about Medlin till he got there. If he can stay healthy he’ll be special. Decent velocity but good control of all pitches…
McFann O O o Get Well Soon, Nolie!!
November 1st, 2011
11:19 pm
Neight—
“I’m gone, man—solid gone!…”
Hey, BMac only had 5 E’s this year, and was NUMBER 1 in range factor for NL catchers…
Bravo Nam
November 1st, 2011
11:20 pm
DS1
Most commentators, including DOB, agree with you re starting pitchers. I’m not so sure though that Braves management aren’t concerned about this area. Given Jurrjens and Hanson’s health and durability issues, they’re both significant question marks going into the season. We’ve got Hudson and a bunch of good, talented pitchers. Indeed, more than enough. The problem though is the pitching profile… apart from possibly Hudson, no innings eaters. When you have a talented bullpen like the Bravos, you don’t want to be ripping up their arms in their first couple of years… unless we can get our younsters to regularly pitch 6-7 inning games, I think we’re playing with fire.
Regarding Diaz, if in fact Pittsburgh is going to be covering half of his salary, then Diaz at 1 million is a bargain.
Bravo Nam
November 1st, 2011
11:21 pm
DS1
Terdo our terd-baseman. Hilarious!
cabravesfan
November 1st, 2011
11:21 pm
McFann-
mac was actually #1 in range factor in MLB, not just the NL (if you are using the stats I posted, those are all for both leagues…)
DS1
November 1st, 2011
11:23 pm
Trey
If healthy, Huddy, Hanson, Jurrjens, Beachy and Minor.
Brave Fan
Go back and look at Matt Diaz numbers while a Brave previous to 2011. For 06, 07, and 09 he OPS’d over .800 each year. He hit very well against lefties. Was a very good platoon hitter. Not much of a defensive player, but a good hitter.
In 08 he was injured and didn’t hit well. Same for 2010.
So, if he doesn’t impress in the spring, I expect he’ll be released. Other clubs will not want an over the hill player if he doesn’t perform in the spring. And if he does, he either stays or gets dealt at that time.
N8
November 1st, 2011
11:25 pm
“Hey, BMac only had 5 E’s this year, and was NUMBER 1 in range factor for NL catchers…”
OK. If you say so. But you did watch the games, right? Or do you listen on radio?
DS1
November 1st, 2011
11:27 pm
Nam
I think when you have that many good young arms, you have to let them progress as they will (a gradual increase in innings pitched as they learn better how to pitch and get away from just throwing).
There will be some heartburn along the way, but I really don’t see us going after a retread when we have all these young arms in reserve.
And yes, I am concerned about Jurrjens durability and Hanson’s shoulder.
DS1
November 1st, 2011
11:30 pm
Are they doing a LeBron James “The Decision” show for the Gold Glove awards tonight? I don’t have MLB on this darned hotel TV. Could someone give me some updates?
Tanks a lot!
McFann O O o Get Well Soon, Nolie!!
November 1st, 2011
11:30 pm
They mentioned Reyes and Rollins as they went to break…HEY! Ya know, there was another good SS who wasn’t, ya know, hurt half the time…
(ITS)
cabravesfan—
Oh yeah, duh! Sweet…
Neight—
I watch them all unless there’s like, a Church thing or something.
DS1
November 1st, 2011
11:38 pm
Never mind, I found the info on cbssportsline……………
Kemp for CF? Either? Markakis? Are you kidding me? Gordon?
Wow.
But then again, this is the same bunch that have given 5-6 of these to Derek Jeter.
McFann O O o Get Well Soon, Nolie!!
November 1st, 2011
11:38 pm
Well, as long as I scared everyone else off, guess I’ll leave now, too!
Night, all!! GG winners didn’t seem to horrid, or I’m just too tired to debate anymore…
But they’re not seriously gonna do the Silvers Sluggers on this kinda show thing, too, are they? Eh…
Bravo Nam
November 1st, 2011
11:38 pm
DS1
Fair points. Nevertheless, lack of innings pitched by our starters could again be our achilles heel preventing us from reaching next year’s playoffs. For all of the problems Lowe had last year, he pitched the second most innings of any starter- those innings and a lot more will need to be matched by next year’s starters to protect our bullpen.
Next year, with the freeing up of 25 million worth of coin (Lowe’s salary, McLouth’s buy-out, Chipper’s salary), the Bravos will have some money to play with. May be something they exploit in relation to any potential free agent signings this year… back load contracts.
DS1
November 1st, 2011
11:39 pm
I was kinda hoping Gonzo would get some gold this winter. Alas, Tulo is a very good SS. And they like to choose hitters, except for the catching position.
cabravesfan
November 1st, 2011
11:41 pm
Night McFann!
DS1
November 1st, 2011
11:42 pm
Nam
Just because the Braves have “money” to spare doesn’t necessarily mean FW will use it.
Here’s our pen from where I see it: Kimbrel, Venters, O’Flaherty, Medlen, Martinez, Varvaro and probably Sherrill. (or some other acquisition)
I think Medlen will help a lot. Hopefully Varvaro will pitch like he did at times last season.
And to be honest, I suspect Fredi will do a little better job of using his pen next year, out of necessity.
richbrave
November 1st, 2011
11:43 pm
FALL BALL
ARIZONA
SURPRISE SAGURROS
C CHRISTIAN BETHANCOURT [.367 BA] 3-4, 2 R, 1 HR [4], 1 RBI [11], 1 SO, 2 SB off BETHANCOURT [6].
1B JOE TERDSLAVICH [.364 BA] 1-4, 1 R, 1 HR [2], 1 RBI [8], 1 SO.
CF TODD CUNNINGHAM [.311 BA] 1-3, 1 BB.
RHRP J.J. HOOVER [H 1, 11.05 ERA] 1.0 IP, pristine with 1 ‘K’.
DOMINICA
EASTERN BULLS
Lead-off CF JOSE ‘George’ CONSTANZA [.364 BA] 0-3, 1 R, 1 BB.
RHRP JAIRO ASENCIO [SV 4, 0.00 ERA] 1.0 IP, perfection while striking out the side in the ninth. The pitcher formally known as LUIS VALDEZ is smokin’ hot.
1B MAURO ‘45′ GOMEZ [.135 BA] 0-3, 1 R, 1 BB.
ESCOGIDO LIONS
2B DIORY HERNANDEZ [.311 BA] 1-4, 1 RBI [7].
C WILKIN CASTILLO [.259 BA] 1-2, SAC [1].
ORIENTE STARS
1B DONEL LINARES [.167 BA] 1-3, 1 RBI [1].
MEXICO
NAVOJOA off tonight.
VENEZUELA
ZULIA EAGLES
1B ERNESTO MEJIA [.295 BA] 2-3, 1 R, 1 RBI [11], 1 BB. Starting to heat up at the plate.
Brave Fan
November 1st, 2011
11:46 pm
DS1 – You are probably right. I like Diaz but I think thats what gets this organization at times. Its like they have a hard time seperating loyalties to players and committment to winning. Matty is not going to contribute to winning a championship. He just doesn’t bring enough even as a utility/platoon guy.
Outfielders should be able to run and throw especially when you build teams around pitching. If they aren’t above average there they need to be playing for Pitt.
I may be crazy but I would refuse to sign a veteran player as an OF if I did not really believe they could hit over .270 with 20+ homers as an everyday player. We are talking about Pro ball players. They play 162 games! Thats not too much to expect. In fact that would be minimal.
I hope our days of watching guys like McClouth flounder around out there over half the year before we realize they can’t get it done are over.
brave braverson
November 1st, 2011
11:47 pm
i wonder if on all the indian blogs the posters are mostly positive or negative about Dblowe. haha
jed
November 1st, 2011
11:49 pm
am i the only one impressed with jack wilson? that guy’s flat-out great defensively and a solid vet otherwise. what if we re-signed him and spent money on a strong-hitting, right-handed outfield bat, who could provide some insurance for heyward and chipper? ie, chipper’s liable to get injured, which will necessitate moving prado to 3b. and when chipper’s in the lineup, you can platoon him with heyward, and use him as a pinch-hitter.
DS1
November 1st, 2011
11:52 pm
Braves Fan
Name me 5 available outfielders who can field OK and who hit 20 HR’s per year with a 270 average (not even talking about the other stats)?
I’ll give you one: Carlos Beltran (too expensive)
I’ll give you one more: Mike Cuddyer (will be well sought out)
One more: Josh Willingham (oops, he only hit .246 and sucks at defense)
OK, name TWO players that are available that fit your profile, that the Braves can afford. I’ll be waiting.
(hint: there aren’t any………..)
Bravo Nam
November 1st, 2011
11:55 pm
DS1
Medlen is an interesting one. He should definitely start the season in the bullpen to regain arm strength, but wouldn’t rule him out returning to the rotation. I’m very impressed with him as a starting pitcher and think he will be effective more quickly than our other talented youngsters.
DS1
November 1st, 2011
11:57 pm
jed
I’d be OK with Jack Wilson as a stop gap SS. But he hasn’t been a starter in 4 years. Not sure he could handle 150 game per. If he could, he’d be good defensively. Just a very small step down from Gonzo.
But he hits like Gonzo, only with NO power. Or has for the past 4-5 years.
Why not just offer Gonzo arbitration and try to sign him for a 1-2 year contract.
And still go after the outfielder.
What names do you like?
How about Andruw Jones (kills lefties)
Or maybe Chase Headley? Could he be had in a trade with San Diego?
Brave Fan
November 1st, 2011
11:58 pm
Its my opinion that Wilson would keep us out of the playoffs. No team wins big with him as a season long SS/hitter.
Count on Prado at 3B most of the year. Chipper will be hurt or unproductive b/c he is too old and slow. Sorry b/c I like Chipper. Bat is slower so he now gets busted witrh inside fastballs even with the new stance and the pop is gone.
So Jed, I believe you are right that we still need a RH bat in LF.
DS1
November 1st, 2011
11:59 pm
Nam
Hey, I LOVE Medlen! The young man is a winner. Pure and simple. I’d be more than OK with him as a 4th or 5th starter.
But I was also impressed with most of our youngsters too. Time will tell on those guys.
DS1
November 2nd, 2011
12:04 am
Guys
I really think the bat the Braves need for the outfield will come via a trade instead of free agents. Just a hunch. But the pickings are very, very slim.
Venice Jim
November 2nd, 2011
12:06 am
Chipper will be hurt or unproductive b/c he is too old and slow.
Just like this year…
Brave Fan
November 2nd, 2011
12:08 am
DS1 – I meant to say corner outfielder. Bourne is as good a leadoff guy that we can get b/c there aren’t many of those. Wish he would maje more contact.
I think we already have one with Heyward if he is handled right. I know all the stuff, bad swing…but he can play if we don’t ruin him.
That leaves us with only needing one. The ones you mentioned would be great except I wouldn’t touch Beltran. I’m just saying that those stats aren’t that great for a corner OF. WE should be able to get one and always keep two. The Marlins have a couple with Stanton and the other crazy guy.
DS1
November 2nd, 2011
12:09 am
Jason Kubel (hits lefthanded, had a foot problem last year) Andruw Jones (getting older, but kills lefties) Cody Ross (will he have a bounce back year?) Nick Swisher (would the Yankees deal him for Jurrjens? probably not) Carlos Beltran (will cost a lot) Michael Cuddyer (will be a hot commodity due to his versatility)
I like Chase Headley. He learned how to take a walk in 2010. He’s a switch hitter. I know little about his defense. What do the Padres need that we could trade them?
Most affordable players have a few warts. You take the good with the bad.
But more than anything else, we need Prado and Heyward to pick it up a notch in 2011. That would solve a lot of our problems.
Bravo Nam
November 2nd, 2011
12:09 am
DS1
I agree… I think the Braves will get their outfielder via the trade market.
Venice Jim
November 2nd, 2011
12:10 am
DS1 – so are you planning to sit Prado, Heyward or Bourn?
Brave Fan
November 2nd, 2011
12:11 am
A little worse than this year b/c he is going to be a little older. He is a log jam on the bases when he does get on. If he has to run hard or slide he gets up hurt. He has no range at third any longer…
DS1
November 2nd, 2011
12:14 am
Brave Fan
I didn’t explain myself well.
I wanted you to name a free agent outfielder that hit 20 dingers w/ a 270 average. Only ones are Cuddyer and Beltran (he is no longer a CF’er).
So name me a few trade candidates that would be available. Stanton would NOT be available.
There are some gems out there, or potential gems out there. But they almost all come with a risk.
Nolan Reimold of Baltimore? Low average. But walks some. Hits lefties well.
Chris Heisy of Cincy. At first glance, he looks good. Until you pull up his splits, then he SUCKS against lefties, for a RH batter.
You might have a few in your mind. Name them and let’s discuss.
OK, VJ
Who would you go after?
Venice Jim
November 2nd, 2011
12:15 am
A remarkable job of overstatement – log jam is ridiculous with Mac behind him – your fantasy that he gets hurt every time he slides or gets up is indicative of someone who does not have the ability to recognize the value he brings to the team – but clearly you are unable to realize that anyway…
DS1
November 2nd, 2011
12:17 am
VJ
Yes! I will sit Prado, Heyward and Chipper if I had a guy like Headley. I’d do a bit of a rotation. With normal rest for Heyward and Prado; and with Chipper’s precarious health, I think Headley would get a fair amount of AB’s.
It’s kinda like pitching. A good problem to have too many arms.
I remember September of 2010 when we coulda used 1 more third baseman (or second baseman, for that matter).
Venice Jim
November 2nd, 2011
12:17 am
Wayne – why would I go after someone with an outfield that has 3 people who are extremely likely to start, regardless of the fantasies of blogland?
Venice Jim
November 2nd, 2011
12:18 am
No – not the same as with pitching – you can only pay so much and keep so many outfielders…sorry…
DS1
November 2nd, 2011
12:18 am
VJ
I’d sure love to see Chipper hitting second next year. If his ego could handle it, it’d be the perfect slot for him. (besides, Shaun thinks the best hitter should hit in the 2 slot)
Snotboogie
November 2nd, 2011
12:19 am
Juan Rivera got 4M guaranteed? Wow.
Venice Jim
November 2nd, 2011
12:20 am
Admittedly, 4 HRs in less games than Chipper played last year makes Headley a great option…
DS1
November 2nd, 2011
12:21 am
VJ
Agreed. In the perfect scenario where nobody suffers major injury, you really don’t need a starting player on the bench.
But when I think about the amount of time that Chipper, Prado and Heyward have missed the past few years, I’d sure love to have a really good insurance policy. Just in case.
But you are right. If all 3 hit like they are capable, then Headley becomes a pinch hitter and late inning defensive replacement.
Brave Fan
November 2nd, 2011
12:22 am
Venice
What value at this point for as once really good player. How many HR did he have this year? I want to say in the teens, I think. He hit in every power spot 3 thru 6 if I remember correctly. Even had a stint in the 2 hole for some unknown reason.
If his name were not Chipper Jones any baseball person would tell you he is a below average 3B that can’t run and can’t hit the way a corner infielder should.
DS1
November 2nd, 2011
12:24 am
VJ
The Braves hit plenty of homers. We need guys that can get on base. I’m not worried about a 20 homer corner when I have a 30 homer second baseman, a 20 homer catcher and a 15 homer SS (assuming Gonzo returns).
Venice Jim
November 2nd, 2011
12:26 am
Brave Fan – “any baseball person” – wow, I like the way you totally make up nonsense to back up a position that is, again, amazingly overstated and indefensible – no offense…
I am not going to waste some of the rare time I have to relax here by bringing up statistics to show you that your argument is not as cogent as you imagine it to be…we can just agree to disagree…enjoy your position…
DS1
November 2nd, 2011
12:28 am
Brave Fan
Chipper Jones played 126 games, had over 500 plate appearances. Had a slash line of 275/344/470. Hit 33 doubles and 18 HR’s. He probably ranked as one of the top 5-6 third baseman in the league. He has never had much range (reason he was moved to third from SS), but he still plays a decent third base.
He gets on base. That’s why he’d be a great 2 slot hitter. And pitchers still fear him with the game on the line.
Why all the hate for Chipper?
DS1
November 2nd, 2011
12:30 am
I shudder to think what this team will do without Chipper in a year or two!
I am not looking forward to that day.
Brave Fan
November 2nd, 2011
12:31 am
VJ
Same to you.
I believe my position is right now but I’m awful glad we had him for all these years!
Time for me to hit the hay!
DS1
November 2nd, 2011
12:31 am
gotta run folks……………..
rest well nolie!!
take care Jim.
DS1
November 2nd, 2011
12:33 am
If Prado hit what Chipper did this year for the next 5 years, I’d be downright giddy!
Chipper IS getting old. Getting older sucks. But the man can still hit. Maybe not to his level of 10 years ago, but better than ANY other player on this team not named McCann.
Venice Jim
November 2nd, 2011
12:59 am
Brave Fan – sorry of I got overly strident – DS1 – good night!
NickB
November 2nd, 2011
3:19 am
Ya know, someone put up the numbers yesterday and it showed that Mac was one of the best defensive catchers in baseball… If he had not had to catch Beachy and Hanson, He’d prolly been in the top 4!!!
So there goes that theory
NickB
November 2nd, 2011
3:24 am
BTW according to the numbers Chipper was tied for the 10th best 3rd baseman offensive numbers last year. Even with all the missed time. So if you let him go, there’s a 2/3’s chance he is replaced by a worse hitter.
Ward
November 2nd, 2011
3:43 am
Hello everyone! After doing some thinking. I still think Wren will try the Free Agent Market first. Just by what I read,and I think Quentin will be the one.It would make sene to me. Also DeRosa was of Braves interest,as well.I see the Braves looking into DeRosa first…..
Ward
November 2nd, 2011
4:27 am
Just before I call it! I was reading from SI,and Cuddyer was talked about leaving the Twins for Free Agency,and the story was linked to the Braves. No mention of him going to the Braves,but strange that it would be linked to the Braves Chop Talk……..Well I wouldn’t mind the Braves getting him either…..Talk later,and peace……
N8
November 2nd, 2011
4:48 am
In order for Chipper’s probably missed time next year to be a non-factor, the Braves need an upgrade to LF. Even if Prado rebounds, and if healthy, he should. It still leaves a gaping hole in LF in the event that Prado is Chipper’s replacement at 3B.
Chipper was clearly fine at 3B when he played. It was Prado’s horrible season and the lack of outfield depth that magnified how bad the lineup was without Chipper. Prado simply being the Prado we know would solve most of those worries.
I’d like to see a fairly decent RH bat to be the 4th outfielder/replacement in LF for when Prado plays 3B, and in a worst case scenario, a platoon partner for Heyward if he needs it for the time when Chipper is healthy and Prado plays LF.
Cuddyer does NOT fit that bill. If Wren were to get a guy like Cuddyer, it would be to play everyday in LF, thus guaranteeing that Prado is the uber-utility guy, or possibly traded.
A guy off the top of my head, who might (big might) be a candidate, is somebody like Andruw. Decent 4th outfielder. Could play CF in a pinch if needed, but not ideal. Plenty of range and arm to play LF, and probably plenty of arm to split time with Heyward in RF if need be. Probably come fairly cheap.
I’m sure there are similar options other than him. But with the nostalgic connection, and his unlikely high salary, it seems like a good place to “start” looking.
Another option would be to go get a guy like Betemit (or to a lesser extent maybe DeRosa) to be that utility guy and simply buck our chances that Prado rebounds as our everyday LF. Leaving Betemit to sub at 3B if/when Chipper goes down or simply needs rest.
Getting a guy like Betemit or moving Prado to utility role, would likely mean the end of Conrad’s run on our bench. Especially with Hinske’s option being picked up.
Not sure what would bug me more. Giving up a draft pick to sign a guy like Cuddyer, or giving up a prospect already in our system to trade for another option. Perhaps it’s as simple as trading Prado and a lesser prospect for a more powerful bat, from a team looking for Prado at 2B or 3B?
Still too early to really know what Wren has in mind. But I can’t wait for the rumors to start flying over the next couple of days as the hot stove heats up. Frank works quickly, and I suspect by Thanksgiving or shortly there after, the core of the 25 man roster/everyday lineup will be in place with only minor tweaking to come.
Should be fun.
Jeff R
November 2nd, 2011
6:42 am
“I shudder to think what this team will do without Chipper in a year or two! I am not looking forward to that day.” — DS1, the Late Night Shift
Ah, well, the sun will rise, the flowers’ bloom, and the birdies’ chirp. The Yanks are without the Babe; Boston without Ted; and the Tigers are Cobb-less. (Oh, and where be Hammerin’ Hank?)
richbrave
November 2nd, 2011
7:23 am
And once again for those early risers who don’t read the late night crowd.
FALL BALL
ARIZONA
SURPRISE SAGURROS
C CHRISTIAN BETHANCOURT [.367 BA] 3-4, 2 R, 1 HR [4], 1 RBI [11], 1 SO, 2 SB off BETHANCOURT [6].
1B JOE TERDSLAVICH [.364 BA] 1-4, 1 R, 1 HR [2], 1 RBI [8], 1 SO.
CF TODD CUNNINGHAM [.311 BA] 1-3, 1 BB.
RHRP J.J. HOOVER [H 1, 11.05 ERA] 1.0 IP, pristine with 1 ‘K’.
DOMINICA
EASTERN BULLS
Lead-off CF JOSE ‘George’ CONSTANZA [.364 BA] 0-3, 1 R, 1 BB.
RHRP JAIRO ASENCIO [SV 4, 0.00 ERA] 1.0 IP, perfection while striking out the side in the ninth. The pitcher formally known as LUIS VALDEZ is smokin’ hot.
1B MAURO ‘45′ GOMEZ [.135 BA] 0-3, 1 R, 1 BB.
ESCOGIDO LIONS
2B DIORY HERNANDEZ [.311 BA] 1-4, 1 RBI [7].
C WILKIN CASTILLO [.259 BA] 1-2, SAC [1].
ORIENTE STARS
1B DONEL LINARES [.167 BA] 1-3, 1 RBI [1].
MEXICO
NAVOJOA off tonight.
VENEZUELA
ZULIA EAGLES
1B ERNESTO MEJIA [.295 BA] 2-3, 1 R, 1 RBI [11], 1 BB. Starting to heat up at the plate.
Efrim
November 2nd, 2011
7:25 am
Good to see the D-Backs Gerardo Parra win a Gold Glove. Great corner outfield defense in the times I’ve seen him.
Efrim
November 2nd, 2011
8:11 am
Third straight day – office closed – still no power. CT got absolutely crushed.
Ease
November 2nd, 2011
8:28 am
Where would we be without Ward sorting through all the rumor and speculation?
TnBrian
November 2nd, 2011
8:54 am
Who’d hit 3rd if Chipper hits 2nd? Sorry, but Mac is a 5-6 hitter, definitely not a 3 hole hitter. The beauty of baseball is that a guy can shine in a instant and become exactly what so many envisioned. Talking about Heyward becoming that number 3 hitter. That could happen, but can’t be counted on.
Efrim
November 2nd, 2011
9:02 am
I’d hit Mac 3rd, hit Chipper 2nd and move Prado down in the order.
Dadgum.....
November 2nd, 2011
9:09 am
The Braves in ‘11 had one of the worst outfields in MLB. We all hope that Heyward and Prado turn it around and we certainly assume Bourn will be our answer in CF. if I were Wren I wouldn’t bet on our outfield turning the corner without a solid bat to replace either Prado or Heyward if they continue their slide or get injured again. I can see Prado bouncing back to close to the .300 hitter plateau we are used to seeing from him. Heyward? Not so much. Hopefully his power numbers will be there or up.
As much as I like Conrad, I already have him out the door. The Braves are interested in DeRosa and I see him as a bench upgrade utility guy we need. Conrad gave us plenty of memorable moments. Both good and bad. Best of luck to him.
If the Braves are to aspire to improve they have to get stronger on the left side of the infield. Chipper is now pretty much average at 3rd. Slightly above offensively, slightly below defensively. Given his stature and contract he will be there when not injured. Which brings me to AGon. The man is simply not strong enough a player to compliment Chipper. The Braves must upgrade SS and hope Chipper can hit .275 with 15-18 homers. I think Wren has a lot left to do and I would be surprised to see AGon still around after the winter meetings. As much as we need Heyward and Prado to return to form, we need a stronger left side of the infield badly.
Rock on….
McFann O O o Get Well Soon, Nolie!!
November 2nd, 2011
9:18 am
Efrim I’d hit Mac 3rd
Lord, please no…not again…
haggard
November 2nd, 2011
9:22 am
TnBrian
Was just thinking about Heyward after reading your comment, coupled with the opinion a friend uttered yesterday: “Heyward’s just another Francoeur. They oughta’ just go ahead and trade him”, he said.
i simply rolled my eyes, (I was on the phone) and wondered how someone who’s been watching baseball for so many years could make such a comparison. Sure, I understand he’s referring to all of the hype surrounding Heyward’s arrival, the big splash, and subsequent drop off in production. But, to me, the cases aren’t very similar at all.
Your “:beauty of baseball” comment is so true and there are so many pieces of Heyward that must fit in order for him to become “exacly what so many envisioned”. Foremost in my mind is a question nolie raised a few months back concerning Jason’s ability to simply grind things out when not feeling exactly one hundred percent, a byproduct of the star treatment received all along through the luxuries of traveling team baseball.
In addition, I cringe everytime I see him slide head first and consider his 6′5″, 240 pound frame. I know he’s been sliding that way since he was eight years old and old habits are hard to break, but I wonder if a more conventional sliding method is even being considered as an area to work on in spring training?
At any rate, I could almost guarantee you Jason Heyward hasn’t had to fight for a position on any team in quite some time–if ever–and it will be interesting to see how he reacts to that reality come February.