Braves stressing patience with young pitchers
CINCINNATI – Mike Minor enters his start tonight in Cincinnati with a 7.09 ERA that’s soared in the past couple of weeks, and a lot of folks are asking how long the Braves can wait before they ship him to the minor leagues.
Mike Minor will try to stop his four-game slide tonight when he faces the Reds in a series opener in Cincy.
Randall Delgado got wild Saturday and gave up a grand slam in the early innings, and some folks want to know why the Braves haven’t sent down the rookie like they did Jair Jurrjens.
In case you haven’t noticed, patience is not overly abundant with a good-sized segment of the blogulace, the Twitterverse, and others among the fan base of the Braves. Nor with the the fan base of a lot of other teams. It’s the times we live in.
But the Braves don’t want to make a move as important as demoting a highly regarded young pitcher before they’re sure that’s the prudent course to take. They won’t do it to appease media members or fans, because team officials know that struggling is what young pitchers do from time to time, and sometimes for longer stretches than a lot of people are comfortable watching.
Which brings us to Fredi Gonzalez’s answer Sunday morning when the manager was asked what’s been different about Minor lately and what he needed to do to get back on track.
“Nothing major,” he said. “I think experience and running him out there every fifth day, like with Delgado, is going to help him. We [Gonzalez and coaches] spent two hours in there this morning talking about, is there a shortcut, or a fast pace to get these guys[to the point where they can] get through innings, get through starts, where they’re going out and battling, minimizing damage.
“Bottom line is, there’s not a simulator out there. You can’t do it in the minor leagues because there’s not a third [seating] deck in the minor leagues, there’s not 40,000 [in the crowd], the lineups are a different. It’s a matter of just going out there and feeling comfortable, minimizing the damage, [realizing] you can make a pitch and give up one or two [in an inning], but not give up four or five. I think that’s just part of maturity.”
This is the point where we reach back to the holy trinity of recent Atlanta Braves pitching to point out that not just mediocre or pretty good pitchers struggle mightily when they are young. Almost all due. Yes, even the Big Three: Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine and John Smoltz.
First, the current crop:
• Delgado is 3-5 with a 3.63 ERA and .231 opponents’ average in 15 career starts over two seasons, with 55 strikeouts and 37 walks in 79-1/3 innings.
• Minor is 10-8 with a 5.39 ERA and .295 opponents’ average in 32 games (31 starts) over three seasons, with 164 strikeouts and 56 walks in 170-1/3 innings.
• Brandon Beachy is 12-6 with a 3.03 ERA and .224 opponents’ average in 36 starts, with 223 strikeouts and 67 walks in 210-2/3 innings. Number that make the former undrafted free agent something of a freak.
Now, the Big Three:
• Maddux went 8-15 with a 5.30 ERA and .295 opponents’ average in his first 30 major league games (28 starts), with 104 strikeouts and 71 walks in 163 innings.
Glavine, Smoltz and Maddux all struggled mightily for long stretches early in their career, but weren't under as much scrutiny because their teams weren't contenders.
• Glavine went 5-17 with a 5.52 ERA and .289 opponents’ average in his first 33 starts, with 78 strikeouts and 83 walks in 177-2/3 innings. (Yes, one of the most precise pitchers of his era had more walks than strikeouts in his first 33 starts).
• Smoltz went 13-15 with a 3.12 ERA and .225 opponents’ average in his first 34 starts, with 169 strikeouts and 83 walks in 227-2/3 innings. But after that Smoltz went 4-9 with a 5.79 ERA and .271 opponents’ average in his next 20 starts.
Now, we’re not suggesting that any of the current Braves will ever sniff the Hall of Fame, just pointing out that a pair of 300-game winners and future first-ballot Hall of Fame inductees, Maddux and Glavine, started out with some lousy stats for their first 30 or so starts. And Smoltz, another expected future Hall of Famer and the only pitcher with more than 200 wins and more than 150 saves, went through a rough stretch of 20 starts early in his career.
If any of them were putting up those numbers for today’s Braves, how many outside the organization would be saying they need to be sent down or traded? A 5-17 record, 5.52 ERA and 78 strikeouts with 83 walks in 177-2/3 innings. Glavine’s first 33 starts.
The difference? Glavine put up those numbers for Braves teams that lost 198 games in two seasons (1987-1988). Maddux did it for Cubs teams that went 70-90 in 1986 and 76-85 in 1987. Smoltz went through his 20-game skid in the second half of ’89 (after making the All-Star team with a strong first half) and early in ’90, a pair of 97-loss seasons for the Braves.
Minor has struggled for his past four starts for a Braves team that’s surged into first place in the NL East. Delgado’s grand-slam games accounted for two of only five losses in the Braves’ past 21 road games, and the 22-year-old blew a lead in each game.
In other words, these struggles, these losses, are particularly upsetting for people because every game is watched closely, every game is analyzed and scrutinized, and every loss is taken harder by many followers than if the Braves were never expected to contend or if they were below .500.
“We’re try to develop these kids on a first-place team in contention, a team that’s been contending for a lot of years,” Gonzalez said. “Yesterday, for example, if we were a last-place team in our division, you run Delgado back out there [in the fifth inning]. You say, ‘Hey, go get ‘em, go figure it out.’”
Instead, Gonzalez replaced Delgado after the fourth inning of Saturday’s game with the Braves trailing 4-2, all of those runs coming on the grand slam he gave up in the third inning.
“We’re in first place, it’s a two-run game and the top of their lineup is coming up again,” Gonzalez said. “You know he’s going to have a tough time getting through that lineup. We’ve got three long men down in the bullpen, and you feel like your offense, in the short season we’ve played, they’ve put numbers up.”
Temporary loss of command has let to a couple of early innings grand slams off rookie Delgado.
So, Gonzalez was thinking more right then of winning the game rather than putting Delgado’s development above all else.
But taking a pitcher out of a game after four innings is quite a different thing than sending him to the minor leagues. And unless a team is fairly certain that a young pitcher is lacking something needed to become a big winner someday, trading a highly regarded young starter is a risky move.
Again, not at all suggesting that any of these guys will become a future 300-game winner, or 200-game winner. But can you even imagine if a team had traded young Glavine when he was 5-17 with a 5.52 ERA, 78 strikeouts and 83 walks in 177-2/3 innings in his first 33 starts? He was 22 at the time.
“You can’t put them through the fast pace, you’ve got to let them go out there,” Gonzalez said of the development curve for young pichers.
Getting back to the Minor question, Gonzalez said, “There’s nothing mechanically wrong. His pitches are more than enough to get through a major league lineup. Obviously you’re not going to have your good stuff for 35 starts. The other 10 starts where you don’t have your good stuff, you’ve got to figure it out, somehow.”
“He’s got to figure out that he belongs here, because I think he belongs here. The organization thinks he belongs here. But you’ve got to get confidence to do that.”
There are better places for a struggling pitcher to gain confidence that Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati, which is derisively known as Great American Small Park for its homer-friendly dimensions.
Minor is 0-2 with an 11.76 ERA and .360 opponents’ average and seven homers allowed in his past four starts, after going 2-1 with a 3.42 ERA and .233 opponents’ average in his first four, and after being the Braves’ most effective starting pitcher during spring training. So he’s not far removed from experiencing success.
Beachy, a former undrafted free agent, leads the majors in ERA with barely a full season's worth of starts under his belt.
And tonight, he’ll face a pitcher who could probably commiserate: Cincinnati’s Mike Leake (0-5, 6.21 ERA) is 0-3 with an 8.53 ERA in three home starts, allowing 21 hits and four homers in 12-2/3 innings at the Small Park.
• Bullpen bottom line: While their bullpen hasn’t been as dominant statistically this season as it was in 2011, a bottom-line fact is that the Braves still haven’t lost a game when leading after the sixth, seventh or eighth innings. Not one.
They are 20-0 when leading after six innings, 19-0 when leading after seven, and 22-0 when leading after eight (also, 25-0 when leading or tied after eight).
Craig Kimbrel picked up his league-leading 13th save on Sunday with a perfect ninth inning including two strikeouts. In his last 5 appearances, Kimbrel has allowed one hit and two walks with sixth strikeouts.
The Braves are 16-0 in games Kimbrel has pitched this season, and he has 25 strikeouts and 10 walks with a .175 opponents’ average.
• Not a Venters-ian month: Although Jonny Venters avoided being scored upon Sunday despite being charged with a hit and two hit batters in one-third of an inning, he has 7.11 ERA and .411 opponents’ average in eight May appearances. In 6-1/3 innings this month, Venters has given up 12 hits, five earned runs, a walk and hit four batters.
Gonzalez and David Ross said Venters’ front side was “flying open” Sunday and causing his arm to drag, which is why he had so much trouble with the three lefty batters he faced. Venters agreed the problem has been in his pitching mechanics and said his health is fine.
“Yeah, my arm feels great,” he said. “I feel great. I’m just not finishing my pitches. [The ball] is kind of running away from me. I’ve just got to work on getting it down. Just have to make an adjustment that I wasn’t able to make today.”
Gonzalez has followed through with the plan to get more rest for Venters early this season, after he showed signs of fatigue down the stretch in 2011. But so far, the extra rest hasn’t paid dividends in terms of immediate results.
More rest has not yielded great results for Venters, who has struggled with his pitching mechanics during a rough couple of weeks.
Through May 20 last season, Venters had pitched in 25 games and had a 0.68 ERA, .107 opponents’ average and 26 strikeouts with seven walks in 26-1/3 innings. This season he’s pitched in 17 games and has a 3.00 ERA, .311 opponents average and 23 strikeouts with six walks in 15 innings. (The Braves’ opened the 2011 season on March 31, and didn’t open until April 4 this season).
One thing that’s not declined: The team’s record in his appearances. The Braves are were 16-9 in games he pitched through May 20 last season, and 14-3 this season.
BRAVES LINEUP
- Bourn CF
- Prado LF
- Freeman 1B
- Uggla 2B
- McCann C
- Heyward RF
- Francisco 3B
- Pastornicky SS
- Minor P
• Road work: Since their 0-4 start, the Braves are 16-5 on the road with a 6-1 series record. They’ve won series at Houston, Arizona, Dodger Stadium, Colorado, St. Louis and Tampa Bay in that stretch.
They are 11-3 in past 14 road games, with a 3.52 ERA and 73 runs (5.2 per game).
The Braves have scored a league-high 123 runs in road games, while the Cardinals (110) and Mets (107) are the only other NL teams that have scored more than 96. And to think, the Braves scored just 10 runs in those first four road games while being swept at New York and losing the series opener at Houston, before Chipper Jones was activated. You might have heard, they’re a far better team with him.
• Etc.
Martin Prado has hit .355 (38-for-107) with a .427 OBP and .960 OPS in his past 28 games, and has 16 extra-base hits and 19 RBIs in his past 32 games…. Michael Bourn went 1-for-13 with four strikeouts and no walks in three games against Tampa Bay, after hitting .375 with a .430 OBP and .902 OPS in his previous 33 games…. The Braves are 7-3 with .280 average, 50 runs and a 3.13 ERA in their past 10 games, and 6-0 when they’ve homered in that stretch.
• Let’s close with a great live cut from “The Killer,” the legendary Jerry Lee Lewis. Waylon also did a great version of this. You can Jerry Lee do it by clicking here.
“I’LL FIND IT WHERE I CAN” by Jerry Lee Lewis
(written by Michael Clark, Zack Van Arsdale)
It’s another wasted morning
And I’m bouncing off the wall
Too much swarming makes me wonder
Why I’m headed home at all
I get that honky-tonk feeling
Every time your arms grow cold
That could be the reason
I need a home away from home
So I’ll say it one more time
And I hope you understand
If I can’t find it in your arms, babe
I’ll find it where I can
I can’t refuse them lonely women
Lord, I know just how they feel
So I’ll keep right on pretending
What you’ve been giving me is real
I get that honky-tonk feeling
Every time your arms grow cold
That could be the reason
I need a home away from home
So I’ll say it one more time
And I hope you understand
If I can’t find it in your arms, babe
I’ll find it where I can
Yes, I’ll say it one more time
And I hope you understand
If I can’t find it in your arms, babe
I’m gonna get it where I can
– David O’Brien, Braves/MIB blog
1,511 comments Add your comment
Brian from SC
May 21st, 2012
1:35 pm
Go Bravos.
Venice Jim
May 21st, 2012
1:36 pm
Thanks, DOB!
Kelly
May 21st, 2012
1:40 pm
Unless the young pitching jeopardizes their standing, I don’t view it as a serious issue. OJT is a part of the transition from the farm to the bigs. It isn’t uncommon to struggle. Over his first two seasons (Cubs), Maddux’s ERA was a little over 5.5.
phil
May 21st, 2012
1:40 pm
Thank you, Dave…
ccrider
May 21st, 2012
1:42 pm
Is it just me, or do you think the Braves might be putting themselves in position to go after and sign Roy Oswalt.
The 5-6 Million dollars they had, that they didn’t spend to start the season, the trade of Drew Sutton to the Pirates for cash and the rumors of a mystery team working out Oswalt(which is the Braves way of doing things under Wren since the Furcal boondoggle).
I would love to see a rotation of Hudson, Beachy, Hanson, Oswalt in the playoffs. Not Maddox, Glavine, Smoltz, but pretty dam good
Fish Bisch
May 21st, 2012
1:43 pm
Leak owns us
Threadkiller
May 21st, 2012
1:44 pm
Lew, I thought WAR was an R&B/Funk Band in the 70’s?
Fish Bisch
May 21st, 2012
1:44 pm
How many WS did we win with three hall of famers in the starting rotation?
phil
May 21st, 2012
1:47 pm
You can see Minor’s problem by simply looking at his picture posted above…
phil
May 21st, 2012
1:48 pm
We couldn’t hit the ball, Fish Bisch….they didn’t always pitch the best either.
Fire Bobby Cox!!
George
May 21st, 2012
1:49 pm
Thanks DOB, any early word on CHIPPER for tonights game?
Kelly
May 21st, 2012
1:50 pm
@Phil…what are you seeing there?
George
May 21st, 2012
1:53 pm
CIN tough, like to win series, but a split looks likely
ccrider
May 21st, 2012
1:54 pm
Fish Bisch, You should know getting to the World Series is the Trick. Who saw St. Louis getting ultra hot and winning last year. They just barely got into the playoffs. Its a big Lottery, Crapshoot, getting hot at the right time, few injuries, players peaking all at the right time ETC.
phil
May 21st, 2012
1:55 pm
Kelly – I can’t say.
Jimmy
May 21st, 2012
1:55 pm
Sporting News reporting that Oswalt is going to sign with the Cardinals.
Heisenberg
May 21st, 2012
1:56 pm
A bit off topic, but since I miss the Tuesday countdown, is Shultz aware Yahoo is using his trademark?
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/olympics-fourth-place-medal/track-officials-counting-error-costs-british-hurdler-jessica-115116830.html
David O'Brien
May 21st, 2012
1:58 pm
Thanks DOB, any early word on CHIPPER for tonights game?
Nothing yet, but I doubt he’ll play. I’m headed to a T-Mobile store to try to get my phone fixed, then to ballpark. Later.
Heisenberg
May 21st, 2012
1:58 pm
And BTW, can we loose the Roy Oswalt talk? That is not the solution here.
Brandon
May 21st, 2012
1:59 pm
Great article Dave
Ernest
May 21st, 2012
2:00 pm
Patience is the key with the young pitchers. I believe they will work through the minor setbacks they are encountering and grow as a result of it.
raleighbravefan
May 21st, 2012
2:03 pm
ccrider – Probably just you…he may be puting us in a position to make a run ar Bourn and extend McCann.
Kelly
May 21st, 2012
2:03 pm
@Phil – lol, OK.
Jimmy
May 21st, 2012
2:05 pm
Enter your comments here
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
2:06 pm
Good read, David. Thanks
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
2:07 pm
My iMac crashed and burned……….
Jimmy
May 21st, 2012
2:08 pm
Good series win against the Rays. I’d like to go 3-1 in this set while the Phils and Nats beat on one another.
Murph
May 21st, 2012
2:09 pm
My iMac crashed and burned……….
How old was/is it?
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
2:10 pm
This would be a great time to shut down the stock market for a few days.
MFin04
May 21st, 2012
2:10 pm
“I’m headed to a T-Mobile store to try to get my phone fixed”
People actually use T-Mobile? Just sounds like some knock-off phone company.
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
2:11 pm
Murph_
Believe it or not I was surprised to find out this morning it’s five years old.
Jimmy
May 21st, 2012
2:12 pm
Leake pitched well in his last start, but he’s been battered in all his others. I’m calling for a big offensive night for the Braves. Might need it with Minor out there.
MFin04
May 21st, 2012
2:13 pm
“My iMac crashed and burned”
You’d think severely overpriced computers would last a lot longer than 5 years?!?
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
2:15 pm
Bat
Hate to hear that about your iMac because mine is creeping up to about that age. Oh, well…..learning from experience, I DO have a backup plugged in almost ALL the time.
Kelly
May 21st, 2012
2:16 pm
@MFin04 I know. I have hands-on experience w/ Macs. I don’t know, but the price differential is extremely out of whack. There have been times when Apple’s brand evangelism borders on being cult-like. Kind of spooky.
Yeah, Braves need to put up good O stats tonight. Who knows? Maybe Minor will hit a groove…but that ballpark…ack!
Murph
May 21st, 2012
2:16 pm
Bat, what did it do?
I have an iMac that just turned 5. Had some issues where it wouldn’t power up anymore… took it into Apple and they replaced some part near the power supply and now it works like a champ.
Jimmy
May 21st, 2012
2:17 pm
I see where Jamie Moyer starts tonight at Miami.
He had made 49 MLB starts before Mike Minor was even born.
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
2:17 pm
MFin04
I’ve had Macs that lasted ten years or more, so it’s not true of all Macs.
Venice Jim
May 21st, 2012
2:17 pm
Richard Justice @richardjustice
MLB drew 1.65 million fans last weekend, largest pre-Memorial Day weekend ever. Best-attended 45-game weekend since end of 2008 season
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
2:18 pm
No back up here, Just Pat.
I must like living on the edge. The guy should call me this afternoon and let me know if they can copy the hard drive.
MFin04
May 21st, 2012
2:20 pm
Mike Minor runs given up last 4 starts: 7,8,6,6.
Wowza. That’s pretty bad. One more start like that and I’d check in on Jurrjens first and then Teheran.
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
2:20 pm
Bat
Yeah, AFTER they installed all the upgrades that I hadn’t bothered with over the years (my bad!), they managed to copy the drive for me AND sell me a backup.
Tired of the Complaining
May 21st, 2012
2:21 pm
Enter your comments here
Jack in Macon
May 21st, 2012
2:21 pm
I remember when Glavine and Smoltz were going through their early rough times. It was so bad for Smoltz he had to resort to seeing a sports psychologist.
One thing that I will always remember about Glavine: In his first season I was watching with much anticipation to see this rookie the Braves were touting and one of the TV analyst (don’t remember who) made the remark something like, ” What concerns me is he’s not get any swing and miss strikeouts”. I remember it because I was thinking the same thing. How little did I and the analyst know what was to come.
What’s different now is back then the Braves sucked. It’s definitely harder now when we’re battling a great Washington team and the other dangerous teams in our division for first place.
Luvin me some Braves!!!!!!
TennesseePaul
May 21st, 2012
2:21 pm
Thanks for the work DOB!
Jimmy
May 21st, 2012
2:23 pm
I must have missed something, but I was watching the Cubs / Sox game this weekend, and the Cubs brought in Kerry Wood. He struck a batter and was removed from the game. They gave him a standing ovation, and he tipped his cap. Announcer said what a fitting way for him to retire.
Anyone know why he is hanging it up? I didn’t know about until that game.
MFin04
May 21st, 2012
2:23 pm
“I’ve had Macs that lasted ten years or more, so it’s not true of all Macs.”
Yep, and you only have to pay like 3 to 5 times as much as a PC for that pleasure.
Unless the hard drive crashed, they should be able to get everything to you quite easily, but I’d bet the most common thing for computers going down is hard drives crashing.
Power supply getting nuked happens frequently too if not on a surge protector.
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
2:24 pm
Murph_
I’ve had so issues with it taking a longtime to boot up lately, though I usually leave it on all the time. Running slow, freezing up, like that. I ran a software update Friday that somehow screwed up Java and when I was trying to fix that this morning to crank up my stock charts and trading tools, things went all to hell.
Long story short, once I got the machine to start up again it would not recognize my password to boot up.
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
2:24 pm
Enjoyed the game so much yesterday (even though I DID hafta listen to “their” announcers) that I stuck around to listen to the after game comments, too.
MFin04
May 21st, 2012
2:25 pm
“Anyone know why he is hanging it up?”
Basically he couldn’t recover properly from the rigors of pitching every day or every other day and decided to hang it up.
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
2:29 pm
Yeah, MFin04, I paid more for the Mac, but I have never had a problem with it before today. PCs? Blah… Throw them in the trash every two years.
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
2:29 pm
MFin04
Look….I’m and OLD lady and have been on Macs ever since I learned to use a computer, so don’t bother trying to change my mind about them.
I’ll gladly pay the money for the familiarity.
Hillbilly
May 21st, 2012
2:30 pm
Running slow, freezing up, like that.
Well, I mean, it is an IMac. It’s simply too fat. It would be in your best interest not to overpay to try and keep it long term.
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
2:30 pm
Bat
Not to mention the fact that you don’t hafta worry HALF as much about hackers and viruses.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
2:30 pm
I like my Mac more than I like my PC
Heisenberg
May 21st, 2012
2:31 pm
I still have T-Mobile. Carly is hot. But probaly not hot enough to keep after contract runs out.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
2:31 pm
Of course, I also didn’t have to pay for it…
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
2:32 pm
Just add me to the Mac cult…….right up there with the Braves cult.
Kelly
May 21st, 2012
2:34 pm
@Bat, I’m on a laptop that was built in ‘04 and I have a desktop that was built in ‘99. Both are tight. It’s just that w/ PC’s you have to stay so vigilant about updates, driver updates and virus/malware protection. If you don’t do those things, or if you install, say, the wrong display adapter, things can go wrong fast. I get the simplicity appeal of Macs. I get that they’re easier to maintain. But if you properly maintain a PC, it has reasonable longevity. (OS a big deal, too). I run XP Pro w/ a Linux dual-boot setup. Peachy.
Kelly
May 21st, 2012
2:34 pm
@Just Pateeeee You got it.
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
2:34 pm
cab
Bet you utilize yours better than I do mine, too. I NEVER use dashboard, iTunes, iPhoto, garage band, etc.
richbrave
May 21st, 2012
2:36 pm
VENTERS is VULTURE meat.
richbrave
May 21st, 2012
2:37 pm
DAP
May 21st, 2012
2:37 pm
Macs are good computers…but they arent the only good computers, like some iZombies would like you to believe.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
2:38 pm
Just Pateeeee-
I keep mine plugged in while I am working, and unplug it when I move to the sofa (I would leave it plugged in then too, but the cord isn’t long enough). But I don’t use the App store or iTunes really on the computer (except to back up) because I can use that stuff easier on my phone or iPad. Mainly use the computer just for internet and work things
Venice Jim
May 21st, 2012
2:38 pm
Macs are good computers
But they’re so fat…
Half Empty
May 21st, 2012
2:39 pm
Is Hillbilly actually Tomahawkin? How could two different people have such an angry, totally false opinion about Cardinal fans?
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
2:39 pm
Hillbilly_
With any luck it’ll come out if the training facility, leaner, meaner and much faster, and at a reasonable extension cost.
ncscoots
May 21st, 2012
2:39 pm
I still have T-Mobile. Carly is hot. But probaly not hot enough to keep after contract runs out.
You must not have seen the motorcycle commercials.
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
2:41 pm
richbrave
Venters may be vulture meat for posters on here, but let’s not throw him into the swamp just yet.
DS1
May 21st, 2012
2:42 pm
So I see we’ve moved on from Pastornicky/Simmons conversations to Mac/PC talk. Well, I’m a PC guy, but I have folks I respect that love their Mac’s. Haven’t used one since grad school 21 years ago, but it was easier to do my work at home on my PC than in the library.
Besides, my employer is deeply embedded in the PC world.
Here’s hoping Minor has a better outing tonight.
Bo Graves.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
2:42 pm
Well, I should mention that at least part of the reason I like my Mac better than my PC is that the PC is probably 7 years old or so and I’ve had the Mac for 4 months so it runs significantly better.
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
2:43 pm
MY Mac isn’t fat at all……just a screen and wireless keyboard and mouse (which I REALLY like).
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
2:44 pm
Enter your comments here
Brian from SC
May 21st, 2012
2:45 pm
Why are we still arguing about Mac? I think he’s come around nicely, just like I expected.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
2:45 pm
I love the touch pad on my Mac- although it is prone to do random things to my screen if I forget and rest a random finger or hand on it (which I tend to do often).
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
2:45 pm
Sorry for the 2:44……hit that instead of refresh and it was totally MY fault…..NOT my Mac’s!
Ease
May 21st, 2012
2:46 pm
But they’re so fat…
Thats why I got a mini Mac…
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
2:46 pm
Brian……LOL
raleighbravefan
May 21st, 2012
2:47 pm
Jimmy – ERA over 8 may have something to do with it.
flange1
May 21st, 2012
2:47 pm
Half Empty,
I think both Hillbilly and T are from Arkansas. They are used to being close to Cards fans.
Shaun
May 21st, 2012
2:47 pm
Richard Justice @richardjustice: MLB drew 1.65 million fans last weekend, largest pre-Memorial Day weekend ever. Best-attended 45-game weekend since end of 2008 season
Of course those who talk and write about the decline of baseball will ignore this evidence and continue to argue in favor of their own preconceived ideas. Actually, those people are a lot like many baseball fans.
Half Empty
May 21st, 2012
2:47 pm
Michael Bourn went 1-for-13 with four strikeouts and no walks in three games against Tampa Bay, after hitting .375 with a .430 OBP and .902 OPS in his previous 33 games…. @DOB
Fredo obviously ruined him by sitting him when he was so hot. Another typical Gonzalez screwup.
brian
May 21st, 2012
2:48 pm
Minor is struggling currently to say the least but he has also shown promise, even in the majors. Great comparisons by DOB in the blog to the big 3. Minor will never be in their class but it is a great reminder to see how even Glavine and Maddux struggled their first few years. Not many people would say that Glavine or Maddux lacked gusto, etc
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
2:48 pm
As far as T-Mobile goes, my sister and her husband have it and can’t get service here when they visit me, so I hafta give her my cell phone. Couldn’t get service in Ireland, either, although they were assured before they left that they’d be able to.
Hillbilly
May 21st, 2012
2:49 pm
How could two different people have such an angry, totally false opinion about Cardinal fans?
Because we’re both from (or have lived in) Arkansas…We’re surrounded by armies of them. You can’t imagine what it’s like until you’ve lived this close to the heart of the beast. You call it false,…I call it spot on. Maybe it’s just the Arkansas chapter of Hog fans that act this way, I don’t know.
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
2:51 pm
Hillbilly
I do hafta say that the Cards fans are my LEAST favorite to run into, sit beside, at ST games.
MFin04
May 21st, 2012
2:51 pm
As long as you aren’t spending $1500 to $2000 just to check your email, run iTunes, and surf the internet on your Mac, I’m cool with people getting them. But it is silly to pay that much unless you are going to do other more intensive things that Macs can do.
Jimmy
May 21st, 2012
2:52 pm
“I’ll gladly pay the money for the familiarity.”
Kinda like having a wife.
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
2:52 pm
Of course, I just lump them in with Tony LaRussa and take it with a grain of salt.
Hillbilly
May 21st, 2012
2:52 pm
But I do know the Yankee fans, Met fans, and Cub fans in this state don’t act like that.
Reid in EAV
May 21st, 2012
2:53 pm
Hmm. So maybe we go back to running Jonny out there five days a week and pitching his arm off? That’s what those results seem to say to me…
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
2:53 pm
Yeah, I’m not saying macs are better, just that it’s been better for me. I’ve been fine taking care of the updates but like I said I’ve never backed up a thing. I’m not the most vigilant guy around and doubt I missed many of the pc viruses and malware that made the rounds before changing over.
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
2:53 pm
Jimmy
Obviously don’t have a wife but MAY be why hubby bought me the Mac.
PDOG
May 21st, 2012
2:55 pm
Has anybody heard who is going to play second base for Gwinnet? My guess is that they traded Sutton so that the kid at high A could move up to AA and have Gosselin move up to AAA. Any thoughts?
raleighbravefan
May 21st, 2012
2:56 pm
Shaun – Most major changes to MLB were made specifically made to appeal to the fans…especially young and casual fans….so naturally attendance and viewership is up. Good for MLB and owners. I just personally don’t like the game as much…I hate interleague play, but it is obviously popular with majority, and I hate the DH, but Seleig and his buddys will eventually get it in the NL. It’s still baseball, and I’ll still watch it. It’s kinda like when your favorate BBQ joint closes, and you have to find a new one. Still good, but you miss the old one.
Half Empty
May 21st, 2012
2:57 pm
They are used to being close to Cards fans. @ flange
so am I. and though I am not a Cards fan, I’ve never been around better ones anywhere. Totally not true that they are like what those two say that they are
Jimmy
May 21st, 2012
2:58 pm
MFin04 / raleighbravefan – I didn’t hear about him retiring. Still looks like he can bring it. That era isn’t too comforting though. I always liked him.
TheOnlyBravesFan
May 21st, 2012
2:58 pm
My Mac is fat, the screen is 27″ wide!!!
Fish Bisch
May 21st, 2012
2:59 pm
DOB why didn’t you try to reverse the curse by saying the Barves are 0-7 on Mondays???
Heisenberg
May 21st, 2012
2:59 pm
Michael Bourn went 1-for-13 with four strikeouts and no walks in three games against Tampa Bay, after hitting .375 with a .430 OBP and .902 OPS in his previous 33 games…. @DOB
****************************************
OMG! Now Braves must trade all their prospects for BJ Upton!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
3:00 pm
My Mac is pretty sleek and streamlined
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
3:01 pm
Half Empty
I only run into the other fans when we’re at ST games. Heard how awful the Philly fans were when the Braves fans went there for a playoff game (spit on a 9 yr.old girl) and am prejudiced against NY fans due to the ex-husband (which isn’t fair, I know). BUT….while the Cards fans aren’t outright obnoxious at ST games, they WILL turn around and glare at you when you clap a good play made by the Braves or when they score a run.
Heisenberg
May 21st, 2012
3:01 pm
I have never been first (and do not really care), but top of page 2 is kinda cool.
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
3:01 pm
At any rate, no Braves baseball for me tonight.
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
3:02 pm
Half Empty
And…..I should add that most of them are retirees so maybe they’re just old and grouchy.
Hillbilly
May 21st, 2012
3:03 pm
Totally not true that they are like what those two say that they are
Geebus, I have no reason to lie about it and make stuff up. I’m sure there are good ones and bad ones, but I’ve encountered more miserable baseball discussions with self-righteous Cardinal fans than with fans of all other baseball teams combined. I don’t know how you can call me a liar about it. It’s just an observation.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
3:03 pm
If you are saying that yankee and Mets fans are better than cards fans, you sure won’t get much agreement in baseball circles. Throughout baseball thet are thought of as being the about best, most knowledgeable and affable fans around, and Mets and Phils are considered among the worst
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
3:03 pm
Bat
You don’t have DirecTV??????
mudcat47
May 21st, 2012
3:03 pm
Good article DOB, but I disagree strongly on one point. Sending a player down to the minors to get his head straight or gain confidence or get the kinks out in his performance is a good thing, as opposed to sending him out every 5th day to get his brains kicked in. I think Minor should be sent down for a few weeks until he gets things turned around. Automatically losing every 5th game is not a good idea in my opinion. Hope he gets it straight tonite. If not, consider a change.
Jimmy
May 21st, 2012
3:04 pm
Just Pateeeee – That would be my guess.
raleighbravefan – I’m on board 100% with your 2:56 post.
Like I say – The National League…where REAL men play REAL Baseball!
MFin04
May 21st, 2012
3:04 pm
“Braves must trade all their prospects for BJ Upton”
No way. Can’t stand the guy;s skinny “jeans” outfit he wears as a baseball player. He has got to be the silliest looking baseball player I’ve seen. Those pants are hideous and his jersey is way too tight as well. Just looks like a goober.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
3:05 pm
Atlanta Braves @Braves
Tonight’s lineup at CIN (7:10, SPSO/ESPN/680AM/BRN): Bourn 8 Prado 7 Freeman 3 Uggla 4 McCann 2 Heyward 9 Francisco 5 Pastornicky 6 Minor 1
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
3:06 pm
Just Pat_
Mediacom……… No MLB tv
I usually watch on MLB.com unless they are playing the Marlins, or like this weekend the Rays.
Heisenberg
May 21st, 2012
3:08 pm
Fortunately, Hudson gave the bullpen a rest yesterday. So Medlen is ready to take over in the 4th and get it to the back end of the bullpen. Without Minor & Delgado, how else would the bullpen get any work in? The other 3 guys are on a roll right now.
Random
May 21st, 2012
3:09 pm
MFin04: (May 21st, 2012 1:28 pm): “It is a wonder that David Ross seems to throw guys out and McCann doesn’t….guess it just has to be the guys McCann is catching vs the ones Ross is catching.
“
You hit the nail on the head without even knowing it. (The blind pig syndrome, I guess.)
McCann’s SPs:
Hanson (8/24%)
Minor (8/24%)
Beachy (7/21%)
Delgado (5/15%)
Hudson (3/9%)
Jurrjens (2/6%)
Ross’ SPs:
Delgado (3/33%)
Hudson (2/22%)
Jurrjens (2/22%)
Beachy (1/11%)
Hanson (1/11%)
Minor (0/0%)
So far in 2012, half (50%) of McCann’s starting pitchers are the three Braves’ SPs who have given up 71% of Braves’ opponents’ Stolen Bases — Hanson (10 SBs), Jurrjens (6 SBs) and Minor (6 SBs). Ross has started with one of those three on the mound only a third (33%) of the time. (Beachy has given up 3 SBs; Hudson and Delgado, none.)
Over half (55%) of Ross’ SPs (Hudson and Delgado) are the two Braves SPs who have given up zero SBs. Over four-fifths (84%) of McCann’s SPs are the other four SPs who have given up 25 of the 31 total Braves’ opponents’ SBs.
Looks to me like McCann and Ross ARE catching for different Starting Pitchers.
PS: Okay, I know, I know — Chicken? Egg? Post hoc, propter hoc? Etc.
Someone else can rank the Braves’ SPs according to how slowly/quickly they deliver to the plate and how closely they hold runners to the base, and then compare how often McCann and Ross have caught each.
All’s I know is that Hanson in particular is (even still) notoriously slow to the plate and notoriously negligent in regard to holding runners close, and represents 24% of the SPs McCann has caught, but only 11% of Ross’ SPs. McCann has caught 89% of Hanson’s starts.
Jimmy
May 21st, 2012
3:09 pm
Bat – It’s on ESPN tonight..I believe.
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
3:10 pm
Bat
Well……just drive here and watch with us.
Shoot……we even have a nice guest apt. to put you up in. 
Even with DirecTV, I had to listen to the Marlins & Rays announcers and am fearful I MAY be stuck with ESPN tonight, too. 
Random
May 21st, 2012
3:10 pm
Mike Berry (May 21st, 2012 1:45 pm): “…my point was that when you are pitching on a last place team and rebuilding…then you allow a Glavine to gain experience and work through his roughness if you expect to build around him for the future. I take it you would agree to that. The Braves do not have that luxury this year with a Minor for too much longer in my opinion.”
Oh, okay — got it.
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
3:11 pm
Jimmy_
Thanks for the heads up.
TennesseePaul
May 21st, 2012
3:11 pm
Last 9 Starts of the Starting 9
_________AVG__OBP__SLG___OPS_wOBA_L9S9+
Bourn__ .333 .348 .467 0.814 .338 __118
Prado__ .459 .500 .703 1.203 .529 __221
Freeman .206 .341 .382 0.724 .327 ___95
Uggla__ .233 .400 .333 0.733 .368 ___99
McCann_ .333 .436 .485 0.921 .409 __148
Heyward .200 .263 .257 0.520 .266 ___41
Francis .188 .206 .313 0.518 .221 ___38
Pastorn .294 .306 .324 0.629 .272 ___69
Minor__ .059 .059 .059 0.118 .101 __-68
nolie
May 21st, 2012
3:11 pm
I watch most of the Rays games and for the most part Upton is aggravating as all getout.He is THE toolsy guy who does not live up to his potential and often doesn’t even try to, plus an attitude too. I’ll pass
Heisenberg
May 21st, 2012
3:11 pm
MFin04, I was being sarcastic.
MFin04
May 21st, 2012
3:12 pm
Braves might want to consider using Ross as a late inning defensive replacement for McCann.
That’s all.
Brave New World
May 21st, 2012
3:13 pm
nolie: Gotta agree with you about Upton. He’s got a ton of talent, but he has yet to live up to the hype.
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
3:15 pm
Ha, thanks for the offer J Pat. Since they are on ESPN I’m good to go for tonight.
ncscoots
May 21st, 2012
3:15 pm
Just looks like a goober.
That goober is liable to be patrolling CF in a Braves’ uni next year. Learn to love peas, I’d say.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
3:15 pm
I heard that Upton got hit on the head and they wanted to do an MRI, but they couldn’t find a machine big enough…..
nolie
May 21st, 2012
3:17 pm
maybe scoots, but I sure hope not….mighta said that b4 actually
Fish Bisch
May 21st, 2012
3:17 pm
David Ross could start for 14 other organisations.
ncscoots
May 21st, 2012
3:18 pm
I heard that Upton got hit on the head and they wanted to do an MRI, but they couldn’t find a machine big enough…..
He should fit right in with you and me, nolie.
Brave New World
May 21st, 2012
3:18 pm
Did someone actually say the Braves should “trade all of their prospects” for BJ Upton? If we covet this yet-to-be superstar, wouldn’t it be easier to sign him as a free agent in 2013?
ncscoots
May 21st, 2012
3:20 pm
nolie, he wouldn’t be my first choice for CF, either. Still, he might be attractive to the Braves’ FO, in some ways. His lack of breakout has to hurt his contract numbers, and he might look high-reward to some folks. Dunno.
MFin04
May 21st, 2012
3:21 pm
“I heard that Upton got hit on the head and they wanted to do an MRI”
Well the head injury could explain his uniform pant choice.
Tomahawkin
May 21st, 2012
3:21 pm
flange1
May 21st, 2012
2:47 pm
Half Empty,
“I think both Hillbilly and T are from Arkansas. They are used to being close to Cards fans.”
Yes, I went to college with a Lot of Bandwagon Cardinals Fans:
These Same Fans called “Season OVER” July 31st and then Jumped back on the Bandwagon. In late September
David O'Brien
May 21st, 2012
3:21 pm
Reds doing great thing for Braves Chipper, using bases w/ his name and number, “Reds celebrating the career of Chipper Jones” message on side. On Thursday, they’ll present him with one of the bases.
ncscoots
May 21st, 2012
3:22 pm
David Ross could start for 14 other organisations.
Down from 29. Trade him while he still has some value left.
Jeff R
May 21st, 2012
3:22 pm
Delgado and Minor are both talented young pitchers. As Fredi pointed out, they’re having to learn to pitch on a contending team, which makes it harder on these guys. Can’t just let them pitch through a lot of mistakes.
But I think Braves’ management is right to be patient with Minor and Delgado, so long as they’re not causing the Braves to fall from contention. No matter how talented, pitchers finally learn to pitch in the majors by pitching in the majors.
CrαZy
May 21st, 2012
3:23 pm
Not sure why so many people keep having concerns about the team??? Don’t they realize that Evan Gattis is almost here??
Tomahawkin
May 21st, 2012
3:23 pm
The Cardinals Didn’t even Sell out Their Playoff games last year…Where was the Nat’l media to rip their fans like they do us when any of our teams dont sell out in the Playoffs
Heisenberg
May 21st, 2012
3:23 pm
However since Braves are playing Reds, another favorite trade candidate that got a lot of mention (before Bourn) is Drew Stubbs. I was never exited about him either.
David O'Brien
May 21st, 2012
3:23 pm
Braves lineup: Bourn CF, Prado LF, Freeman 1B, Uggla 2B, McCann C, Heyward RF, Francisco 3B, Pastornicky SS, Minor P
nolie
May 21st, 2012
3:25 pm
yeah, that’s pretty cool alright DOB
Atanta87
May 21st, 2012
3:25 pm
With rain in the forecast for tonight’s Braves game, there might be a Minor Leake in Cincinnati this evening.
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
3:25 pm
Thanks, DOB…..I can feel myself already getting all choked up. It’s so nice what these teams are doing for Chipper and just shows the esteem he’s held in by other teams.
CrαZy
May 21st, 2012
3:25 pm
David Ross could start for 14 other organisations.
Sure because he’s proved in the past how great he is as a everyday catcher!! Right??
Tomahawkin
May 21st, 2012
3:25 pm
My Prediction for the PrimeTime Series In The NATTI…
There will be a Braves/Reds Split. You can take this Prediction to the Bank
nolie
May 21st, 2012
3:26 pm
unfortunately Evan seems to have hit a bit of a bump in the road lately, so we might have to wait a little longer to be saved….
Murph
May 21st, 2012
3:27 pm
The only issue I have with my Apple products is that now I’m completely dependent on them and it’s a real hassle to go non-Apple now that my family is 99% Apple.
All of our photos are in iPhoto. All of our music is in iTunes. All of our family calendars are in iCal. 2 iPhones, 2 iPods, multiple computers and Apple TV devices…
It’s cheaper just to stay Apple at this point than it would be to make the switch.
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
3:27 pm
If rain is in the forecast, hope that message is in indelible ink!
nolie
May 21st, 2012
3:27 pm
Apples are wormy….
ncscoots
May 21st, 2012
3:27 pm
using bases w/ his name and number
Hope the message is on one of the field sides, and not the basepath sides. Guys might feel bad about sliding into a bag and spiking the message.
Tomahawkin
May 21st, 2012
3:28 pm
Atanta87
“With rain in the forecast for tonight’s Braves game, there might be a Minor Leake in Cincinnati this evening.”
Didn’t Chip Caray Say that Exact Same Phrase during one of the Games last weekend?
Sopheee
May 21st, 2012
3:29 pm
Reds doing great thing for Braves Chipper, using bases w/ his name and number, “Reds celebrating the career of Chipper Jones” message on side. On Thursday, they’ll present him with one of the bases.
This is so cool of the Reds. I thought a few teams may honor Chipper throughout the season but it’s been extraordinary to see every single team do it so far and some of them have been pretty unique.
brian
May 21st, 2012
3:29 pm
cool bases in Cincy!! Hope Chipper can actually run them this week
nolie
May 21st, 2012
3:29 pm
Minor + no Chipper = recipe for disaster?
ncscoots
May 21st, 2012
3:29 pm
The only issue I have with my Apple products is that now I’m completely dependent on them and it’s a real hassle to go non-Apple now that my family is 99% Apple.
This is why I continue to own their stock, while purchasing none of their products.
Heisenberg
May 21st, 2012
3:29 pm
Forget Apple, the real trajedy is iCarly (not to be confused with previously mentioned T-Mobile babe) will film the final episode next month.
Tomahawkin
May 21st, 2012
3:29 pm
Heisenberg
“However since Braves are playing Reds, another favorite trade candidate that got a lot of mention (before Bourn) is Drew Stubbs. I was never exited about him either.”
No Way!…Stubbs Strikes out WAYYY Too Much…200 K’s per year, No Thanks
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
3:30 pm
But……an apple a day keeps the dr. away!
nolie
May 21st, 2012
3:30 pm
wonder if the Marlins will do anything for Chipper?
Jeff R
May 21st, 2012
3:30 pm
Just for fun… The Braves are a division-leading 26-16 (.619). 120 games remaining.
To win 90 games, the Braves need to go 64-56 (.533)
To win 95 games, the Bravos need a 69-51 record (.575)
If the Braves keep winning at a .619 clip (actually, .617), they end up with 100 victories.
Heisenberg
May 21st, 2012
3:30 pm
Didn’t Chip Caray Say that Exact Same Phrase during one of the Games last weekend?
I think I heard it on ESPN baseball tonight.
Murph
May 21st, 2012
3:31 pm
This is why I continue to own their stock, while purchasing none of their products.
I have a handful of shares that I bought a long, long time ago. My first stock purchase, actually.
I’m hoping they’ll pay for my girl’s Harvard education someday… or a really, really nice car for daddy.
Heisenberg
May 21st, 2012
3:31 pm
Tomahawkin , more sarcasm. Just like my earlier BJ Upton reference.
CrαZy
May 21st, 2012
3:32 pm
Made the switch to Android and I’ll never buy another apple product again… Lots more freedom with Android products!!
Jimmy
May 21st, 2012
3:32 pm
Tomahawkin – I’ve taken your predicitons to the bank three times and still have nothing to show for it.
I’ll try again. Headed to the bank…or the tank.
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
3:33 pm
nolie
If the Marlins DON’T do something for Chipper, think they’ll be the laughingstock of MLB. And, yeah, I know they refused to honor Bobby.
ncscoots
May 21st, 2012
3:33 pm
I have a handful of shares that I bought a long, long time ago. My first stock purchase, actually.
Whatever you have, shoulda bought more, LOL.
Brian from SC
May 21st, 2012
3:33 pm
I would prefer Chipper trot the bases, as opposed to running them.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
3:34 pm
Stubbs is one of the best athletes in baseball, if he ever learns to hit he could be a force, but he might never get it
David O'Brien
May 21st, 2012
3:36 pm
Triple-A Gwinnett Braves P Todd Redmond and 1B Ernesto Mejia swept International League pitcher and player of week awards
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
3:37 pm
I’ve been watching the Decorah eaglets on live stream and am really enjoying that. If they’re sleeping, it’s boring, but does get a bit exciting at feeding time. And now they’re doing their “wingercising” so may be trying to fly here shortly.
cricket
May 21st, 2012
3:38 pm
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/mlb-big-league-stew/livan-hernandez-welcomes-ballboy-bigs-shower-sunflower-seeds-162242252.html
Jeff R
May 21st, 2012
3:39 pm
Todd Redmond… The Forgotten Braves’ Prospect.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
3:40 pm
Mejia and Gattis = Godzilla and Gorgo
CrαZy
May 21st, 2012
3:43 pm
Minor + no Chipper = recipe for disaster?
We’re due to win on a monday and Minor is due to pitch good… maybe it’s the perfect recipe!!
timthebrave
May 21st, 2012
3:43 pm
Braves are playing pretty good ball lately. They are a fun team to watch. Go Braves
Kelly
May 21st, 2012
3:43 pm
@Bat…I’m in FL., too. Miss those TBS days of Braves games.
MikeInFl
May 21st, 2012
3:44 pm
. Minor will never be in their class but it is a great reminder to see how even Glavine and Maddux struggled their first few years.
Probably right. Then again, I don’t know that anyone ever thought Tom Glavine would turn out to be in Tom Glavine’s class, either. 2nd round pick, didn’t really dominate in the minor leagues. I was a fan then but don’t remember if there was any great expectations about him… much different times in terms of “prospect watching.”
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
3:44 pm
CraZy
I like how you think.
CrαZy
May 21st, 2012
3:44 pm
The Forgotten Braves’ Prospect.
Not sure he ever really was a prospect?? Maybe when he was a Pirate?
timthebrave
May 21st, 2012
3:46 pm
I have been on the west coast training for a new job…By the time I get home the Braves games were almost over….Hollywood is a fun town to visit but not sure if I would like living there…It’s good to be back in the Atl again. To bad the Braves are on the road this week
David O'Brien
May 21st, 2012
3:47 pm
One of the Chipper bases: http://yfrog.com/oecygpmj
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
3:48 pm
Yeah, Kelly, me too.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
3:49 pm
not that long a drive to Cincy nowdays, go for it. I used to have to drive it B4 I-75 when it WAS that long a drive, up one side of a mountain and down the other, with a possible speed trap lurking around every blind turn
Murph
May 21st, 2012
3:49 pm
I want one of those bases!
MikeInFl
May 21st, 2012
3:49 pm
No, Redmond was never considered a prospect. But last year, and so far this year, he’s been one of the best starting pitchers in the International League. Who knows, maybe a late bloomer who might help the team (or some other team) out before all is said and done.
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
3:50 pm
Ha, that is pretty cool. Kudos to the Reds
ncscoots
May 21st, 2012
3:50 pm
Then again, I don’t know that anyone ever thought Tom Glavine would turn out to be in Tom Glavine’s class, either.
I’ve worried sometimes that FO types have tried to replicate that success a little too hard: looking for crafty lefties with great changeups who don’t miss a lot of bats, and hoping that each one found turns into a HOFer.
Jimmy
May 21st, 2012
3:50 pm
Thanks for that pix DOB!
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
3:51 pm
DOB
Thanks, again…….that base is really neat and shows what a classy organization does for one of the most respected names in baseball.
TennesseePaul
May 21st, 2012
3:52 pm
Thanks for the photo link DOB. That is pretty fresh.
Jimmy
May 21st, 2012
3:53 pm
nolie – How fast could you get that horse to go? Speed trap for horses?
MFin04
May 21st, 2012
3:54 pm
“These Same Fans called “Season OVER” July 31st and then Jumped back on the Bandwagon. In late September”
Yeh, well I’m on a blog with a bunch of Braves fans who kept telling me that there was no way the Braves could lose the wild card. Hate to tell them I told them so.
ncbravesfan90
May 21st, 2012
3:56 pm
Quick turn around for Drew Sutton and will join the Rays big league club tonight…Good for him, enjoyed watching this guy down at Disney when I went down for Spring Training!
Rays Acquire Drew Sutton
By Ben Nicholson-Smith [May 21 at 2:41pm CST]
The Rays announced that they acquired Drew Sutton from the Pirates for a player to be named. The infielder’s stay in Pittsburgh was a short one; the Pirates acquired him from the Braves for cash considerations less than 24 hours ago. The Rays expect Sutton to join them tonight, at which point they’ll make a corresponding move.
Sutton has a .258/.322/.403 batting line line in 178 MLB plate appearances with the Reds, Red Sox and Indians. The 28-year-old has MLB experience at all four infield positions and both corner outfield positions. He signed a minor league deal with Atlanta this past offseason and played 38 games for Triple-A Gwinnett before yesterday’s trade.
The switch-hitting Sutton will provide Rays manager Joe Maddon with infield depth while Evan Longoria and Brandon Allen recover from their respective leg injuries. Roger Mooney of the Tampa Tribune first tweeted the news.
cricket
May 21st, 2012
3:56 pm
Redmond – Beachy2.0?
nolie
May 21st, 2012
3:56 pm
wasn’t QUITE that long ago when there was no I-75. My old Duesenberg could hit 50 easy….downhill at least
nolie
May 21st, 2012
3:58 pm
must really be short of money for that deal to have gone down
Ward
May 21st, 2012
3:58 pm
Hello everyone! Just going to put out one post. Patience is the key to success……… Patience builds confidence, and contenders……..All, have a good one! Peace my friends, and Go!!!!!Braves!!!!!”
cricket
May 21st, 2012
3:58 pm
this site can look into future?
http://www.bigleaguesports.net/blb/reports/news/html/players/player_17272.html
Player History
06/29/2008 Injured (torn rotator cuff muscle), possible career-ending injury!
01/01/2009 OSA scouting updated ratings (potential): Stuff: 4 (5); Movement: 5 (7); Control: 5 (7).
01/01/2010 OSA scouting updated ratings (potential): Stuff: 5 (5); Movement: 7 (7); Control: 5 (7).
01/01/2011 OSA scouting updated ratings (potential): Stuff: 5 (5); Movement: 7 (7); Control: 6 (7).
01/01/2012 OSA scouting updated ratings (potential): Stuff: 5 (5); Movement: 7 (7); Control: 7 (7).
11/02/2012 Won the 2012 BIg League Baseball World Series with the Atlanta Braves!
01/01/2013 OSA scouting updated ratings (potential): Stuff: 5 (5); Movement: 7 (7); Control: 7 (7).
04/23/2013 Injured (strained hamstring), out for 3 weeks.
11/24/2013 Received a 1-year contract worth a total of $390,000 through automatic renewal.
01/01/2014 OSA scouting updated ratings (potential): Stuff: 6 (6); Movement: 7 (7); Control: 7 (7).
11/27/2014 Received a 1-year contract worth a total of $390,000 through automatic renewal.
01/01/2015 OSA scouting updated ratings (potential): Stuff: 6 (6); Movement: 6 (7); Control: 7 (7).
10/18/2015 Got claimed off waivers by Tampa Bay while with Atlanta.
11/20/2015 Received a 1-year contract worth a total of $2,600,000 through arbitration.
01/01/2016 OSA scouting updated ratings (potential): Stuff: 6 (6); Movement: 7 (7); Control: 7 (7).
cricket
May 21st, 2012
3:59 pm
this site can look into future?
http://www.bigleaguesports.net/blb/reports/news/html/players/player_17272.html
Player History
06/29/2008 Injured (torn rotator cuff muscle), possible career-ending injury!
01/01/2009 OSA scouting updated ratings (potential): Stuff: 4 (5); Movement: 5 (7); Control: 5 (7).
01/01/2010 OSA scouting updated ratings (potential): Stuff: 5 (5); Movement: 7 (7); Control: 5 (7).
01/01/2011 OSA scouting updated ratings (potential): Stuff: 5 (5); Movement: 7 (7); Control: 6 (7).
01/01/2012 OSA scouting updated ratings (potential): Stuff: 5 (5); Movement: 7 (7); Control: 7 (7).
11/02/2012 Won the 2012 BIg League Baseball World Series with the Atlanta Braves!
01/01/2013 OSA scouting updated ratings (potential): Stuff: 5 (5); Movement: 7 (7); Control: 7 (7).
04/23/2013 Injured (strained hamstring), out for 3 weeks.
11/24/2013 Received a 1-year contract worth a total of $390,000 through automatic renewal.
01/01/2014 OSA scouting updated ratings (potential): Stuff: 6 (6); Movement: 7 (7); Control: 7 (7).
11/27/2014 Received a 1-year contract worth a total of $390,000 through automatic renewal.
01/01/2015 OSA scouting updated ratings (potential): Stuff: 6 (6); Movement: 6 (7); Control: 7 (7).
10/18/2015 Got claimed off waivers by Tampa Bay while with Atlanta.
11/20/2015 Received a 1-year contract worth a total of $2,600,000 through arbitration.
01/01/2016 OSA scouting updated ratings (potential): Stuff: 6 (6); Movement: 7 (7); Control: 7 (7).
cowdogit
May 21st, 2012
4:00 pm
The braves had LEO MAZZONE to fix Glavine, Maddux and Smoltz. To bad Cox allowed his personal feeling about Mazzone and his fourteen division titles to be barred from the braves organization. The braves fans deserve better!!!
Jesse
May 21st, 2012
4:00 pm
DOB,
Just wanted to let you know that your blog helps a Braves fan out in sunny LA stay updated on his team and is much appreciated. Oh, and the musical selections always make my day. Keep up the good work buddy!
Atanta87
May 21st, 2012
4:00 pm
@Tomahawkin Yeah I heard Chip yesterday during the Rays game. I was hoping no one on here caught that. Haha
CrαZy
May 21st, 2012
4:03 pm
Redmond – Beachy2.0?
No Redmond is 27 and with his 2nd organization… certainly not comparable to Beachy!!
Or are you asking a math question Redmond minus Beachy2.0 = ??
CrαZy
May 21st, 2012
4:05 pm
The braves had LEO MAZZONE to fix Glavine, Maddux and Smoltz. To bad Cox allowed his personal feeling about Mazzone and his fourteen division titles to be barred from the braves organization. The braves fans deserve better!!!
Go smoke another one!!
Heisenberg
May 21st, 2012
4:05 pm
I just remembered considering Braves record on Mondays so far in 2012 and Minor struggling lately, a rainout could be doing us a favor.
reckingball
May 21st, 2012
4:06 pm
I always thought that Mazzone quit the Braves, to coach for the Os, and his life long friend, who was the manager at the time.
How was it Bobby’s fault, that things didn’t work out in Baltimore, for Leo?
phil
May 21st, 2012
4:07 pm
David O’Brien
May 21st, 2012
3:21 pm
Reds doing great thing for Braves Chipper, using bases w/ his name and number, “Reds celebrating the career of Chipper Jones” message on side. On Thursday, they’ll present him with one of the bases.
**************
What’s to celebrate? The guy won’t even play….sigh.
CrαZy
May 21st, 2012
4:08 pm
The braves had LEO MAZZONE
and now he’s doing talk radio in ATL… if he was so great what the (word that rhymes with duck) is he doing working radio instead of on a ML bench??
Jeff R
May 21st, 2012
4:09 pm
CrαZy, using prospect in the broadest sense… Redmond seems to be pitching well enough to be a “prospect,” but I get that he’s been tagged a AAAA pitcher. Who knows, though, the guy may have to the stuff to be a capable major league pitcher somewhere.
chc4
May 21st, 2012
4:11 pm
Delgado/Minor/Beachy aren’t near the prospects that Maddux/Glav/Smoltz were. Why compare their stats only to basically admit there is no comparison? Minor’s main problem is obvious… his breaking stuff isn’t that good on a consistent (or even semi-consistent) basis. Delgado will be a serviceable pitcher but nothing special. And I love Beachy. He could be really good long term.
southern hope
May 21st, 2012
4:11 pm
Before we get to tonight’s game, DOB, you deserve a bit more credit for this line that you wrote after the 8th inning yesterday: “Braves have been working on that bases-loaded play — throw sinker, have grounder strike baserunner.” – love it.
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
4:11 pm
Leo was known for his rocking on the bench. The guys were known for their pitching.
phil
May 21st, 2012
4:12 pm
Ward
May 21st, 2012
3:58 pm
Hello everyone! Just going to put out one post. Patience is the key to success……… Patience builds confidence, and contenders……..All, have a good one! Peace my friends, and Go!!!!!Braves!!!!!”
***********
Patience is for losers….
Fire FG!!
CrαZy
May 21st, 2012
4:12 pm
Jeff… I’ve seem him pitch multiple times… hes a good pitcher! Nothing special to his game, certainly not someone I’ll make a special trip to Cool Ray to see, but I think he could do a decent job in the back of a rotation or as a long man.
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
4:14 pm
phil, phil, phil (shaking head)
Didn’t you take your happy pills today?
phil
May 21st, 2012
4:15 pm
Jesse
May 21st, 2012
4:00 pm
DOB,
Just wanted to let you know that your blog helps a Braves fan out in sunny LA stay updated on his team and is much appreciated. Oh, and the musical selections always make my day. Keep up the good work buddy!
***********
Another butt kisser….
CrαZy
May 21st, 2012
4:16 pm
chc4
Thanks for clearing up the future of our prospects for us… can I have the winning numbers to the mega millions for the May 25th 2012 drawing… send it to umightbestupid@hotmail.com sometime before Friday please!
Thanks!!
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
4:16 pm
Obviously NO happy pills today.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
4:16 pm
phil is happiest when he is unhappiest Pateeee
Tomahawkin
May 21st, 2012
4:17 pm
Heisenberg
May 21st, 2012
3:31 pm
Tomahawkin , more sarcasm. Just like my earlier BJ Upton reference.
Oh Ok!
DO IT AGAIN! DO IT AGAIN!
phil
May 21st, 2012
4:18 pm
I did, Pateeeee!
Which is why I can point out that Minor is getting a little chubby. Look at his picture at the beginning of the blog….
Another one….sigh.
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
4:18 pm
nolie
Oh, I see……….I THINK. Braves are winning so he’s unhappy????
cricket
May 21st, 2012
4:19 pm
sounds like a Jeff Foxworthy joke – u might be stupid if u still use hotmail
traderjack
May 21st, 2012
4:21 pm
Soott Diamond!
MFin04
May 21st, 2012
4:21 pm
“u might be stupid if u still use hotmail”
Not as stupid sounding as gmail. Who comes up with these terrible names? Probably BJ Upton’s pants.
reckingball
May 21st, 2012
4:22 pm
Really good job on the writeup DOB.
Thanks, keep up the good work.
GO BRAVES!!
Jimmy
May 21st, 2012
4:22 pm
phil is still trying to find out how to “unlike” his own facebook page.
cricket
May 21st, 2012
4:22 pm
http://www.cartoonstock.com/directory/h/happy_pills.asp
1eyedJack
May 21st, 2012
4:23 pm
Back before the last two rounds of expansion it was common that pitchers often didn’t get their first shot until they were 25 or 26 years old. Your Bob Gibsons and Tom Seavers were exceptions rather than the rule. Now days, anybody with “potential” gets rushed through the minors on a fast track program. Just limit their pitch counts.
On another note, ain’t Tommy John surgery wonderful? How many really good pitchers have we been able to watch that would have been out of the game?
phil
May 21st, 2012
4:23 pm
phil
May 21st, 2012
4:24 pm
Help me out, Jimmy. How do I do that?
phil
May 21st, 2012
4:26 pm
My hankering for a good firing was satisfied for the day with the news that Van Gundy was canned in Orlando…
Who will be next?
MikeInFl
May 21st, 2012
4:27 pm
How many really good pitchers have we been able to watch that would have been out of the game?
Very true. Too bad it wasn’t around yet when Sandy Koufax had arm trouble. Done at 30, coming off 3 Cy Youngs in 4 years…
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
4:28 pm
ieyedJack
Totally agree about TJ surgery.
Heisenberg
May 21st, 2012
4:28 pm
Tommy John should be in HoF. Not based on career stats, but having a procedure named after him. Instead of a bust, they could make a replica of his “before” surgery ligament.
Jimmy
May 21st, 2012
4:28 pm
Patience, lower case phil, just use some patience.
Got to go. See you good folks later.
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
4:29 pm
Good evening, Jimmy. GO BRAVES!
phil
May 21st, 2012
4:30 pm
Koufax was done in by arthritis, not a torn ulnar collateral….
Jeff R
May 21st, 2012
4:30 pm
his [Minor's] breaking stuff isn’t that good on a consistent (or even semi-consistent) basis.
Consistency (or lack thereof) is what troubles most young pitchers. I think Minor (and now Delgado) are being judged to harshly too soon.
That doesn’t mean I think either are Glavine or Maddux level pitchers. They don’t have to be. Minor and Delgado need to be good pitchers… capable, effective workhorses.
kenhotlanta
May 21st, 2012
4:31 pm
nolie, If you still had that old Duesenberg, it would prolly be worth more than your house.
phil
May 21st, 2012
4:31 pm
Actually, it’s been a very blue Monday.
Been in the dumps most of the day.
I attribute much of it to only winning 2-0 yesterday….no, if only. just blah…
CrαZy
May 21st, 2012
4:32 pm
Is hotmail still used??
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
4:33 pm
Jeff R
Think Minor and Delgado ARE good pitchers. Just think their youthfulness smacks them in the face sometimes and they lose confidence in their “stuff”.
MikeInFl
May 21st, 2012
4:34 pm
lot of debate about that, phil. But at least you didn’t call me a liar again. Thanks.
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
4:34 pm
phil
Who cares WHAT we win BY…..as long as the “W” goes in our column???????
DawgDad
May 21st, 2012
4:36 pm
Lecturing not accepted. When a young pitcher goes “0-2 with an 11.76 ERA and .360 opponents’ average and seven homers allowed in his past four starts” fans have a RIGHT to ask questions.
I have no problem with the Braves running Minor out there again, or again, or again. This is the big leagues, the beatings are in the record book, just like the games in his good stretch earlier. If the drubbings continue Minor and Braves management will hear from the fans, lectures or no lectures.
I’m not sure the analogies to Maddux and company are really valid. I mean, there are scores if not hundreds of pitchers who compare in this manner, and precious few become Hall of Famers.
For the time being the leash on Minor in the middle innings needs to tighten a bit. Let’s hope he turns this around, quickly.
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
4:36 pm
Did anyone care that we won by one game when…….SID SLID???????
Sopheee
May 21st, 2012
4:37 pm
Chin up, lowercase phil. Mike Minor will cheer you up with 12 scoreless innings and the game winning homerun.
1eyedJack
May 21st, 2012
4:39 pm
Leo Durocher almost had a viable replacement for Koufax, but apparently Jethro was unable to hit the target without the use of possum fat, and Ellie Mae (who could hit a nail without possum fat) was a girl.
phil
May 21st, 2012
4:39 pm
Pateeeee – Read my ENTIRE post and you’ll see that I was kidding about the 2-0…..
I’ve long considered when Sid slid to be my all time favorite Braves highlight. 3-2 worked out just fine that night.
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
4:39 pm
DawgDad
Agreed. I think both Fredi and pitching coach KNOW what they need to be looking for in Minor and Delgado now and will be looking for it in the future.
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
4:41 pm
phil
Well, I’m sorry if rainy days and Mondays always get you down, but…….no sense in all the negative posts.
phil
May 21st, 2012
4:41 pm
MikeInFl
May 21st, 2012
4:34 pm
lot of debate about that, phil. But at least you didn’t call me a liar again. Thanks.
**************
I don’t even remember when or what the liar thing was about.
As for Koufax, come ot think of it, I wonder if he did have a torn or nearly torn UC that eithe rled to or was mistaken for arthritis. I’ve seen no debate on it but have never inquired or looked for any either. Apparently it’s there.
TOMY FOURNIER
May 21st, 2012
4:42 pm
Where are the phillys fan????…down the streets of BROAD AVE…ALONE!!!!
tony austin
May 21st, 2012
4:42 pm
Mike Leake (0-5, 6.21 ERA) – sounds like the type of pitcher the offense struggles against.
Plus it’s Monday, plus Minor is on the mound. That does not sound like a recipe for success
:joking:
All kidding aside, I am one that would have shipped Minor and Delgado back to AAA already, but after reading what DOB wrote, I agree that is probably not the right move right now. As long as they are not a detriment to the club and as long as the W’s pile up, then let’s not upset the apple cart.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
4:42 pm
12 scoreless innings might get his ERA to a more reasonable level.
BTW its Minor vs Leake who was rated a bit higher potential than Minor but was taken later. So far Leake does have the better career ERA anyway
phil
May 21st, 2012
4:43 pm
Pateeeee – No sense in you not being able to pick up on me just kidding around either.
You can also mind your own business if it helps make you feel better.
Mixxo
May 21st, 2012
4:43 pm
*praying for rain tonight in Cincy*
PLEASE rain! I don’t wanna go 0-8 on Mondays.
phil
May 21st, 2012
4:43 pm
Pateeeee – No sense in you not being able to pick up on me just kidding around either.
You can also mind your own business if it helps make you feel better.
ncscoots
May 21st, 2012
4:43 pm
Mike Minor will cheer you up with 12 scoreless innings and the game winning homerun.
…while throwing only 68 pitches, 66 for strikes.
MFin04
May 21st, 2012
4:43 pm
Who is Sid? AND Why the heck isn’t he going head first?
nolie
May 21st, 2012
4:44 pm
Koufax had arthritis, you can see that stuff in xrays and such
phil
May 21st, 2012
4:44 pm
I said it twice for emphasis, pateeeee…
nolie
May 21st, 2012
4:45 pm
if you put it on a blog it is everybody’s bidniz phil
phil
May 21st, 2012
4:45 pm
That’s what I’ve always heard, nolie….apparently that isn’t good enough for some writers out there per Mike.
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
4:46 pm
phil
Well, good for YOU and…..I did this once before and I’ll do it again……will just ignore you and I’ll do THAT twice for emphasis, too. Good night.
phil
May 21st, 2012
4:47 pm
Yes, nolie, it is. I’m simply inviting her to ignore me if need be for her own enjoyment.
phil
May 21st, 2012
4:48 pm
Pick on me, I pick back, Pateeeee. Do as you must, though I actually have no real issue with you.
And it isn’t night yet….
nolie
May 21st, 2012
4:50 pm
its night somewhere….
cricket
May 21st, 2012
4:51 pm
phil is too good of a “method” blogger. he gets into character so well that many folks here can’t pick up that it is all an act..
Mixxo
May 21st, 2012
4:51 pm
Awright y’all…..calm down. We’re 26-16…..all is good with the world.
Who cares if everybody else in the division OWNS us?
Turtsnap
May 21st, 2012
4:51 pm
I think the bloggsville gang needs to chill – myself included, I’ve been critical too – The Braves are in 1st place, with Delgado and Minor getting seasoned in the majors. Thinking it over, don’t need to make a move unless we fall off the pace. What better way to work through your issues than on a ML roster with a quality team!
nolie
May 21st, 2012
4:51 pm
you should expect to be picked on with what you post, so why pick back?
DS1
May 21st, 2012
4:53 pm
phil
Besides the fact that you do such a good job of being an a-hole, didn’t the lady tell you you’re on ignore.
So why would a dipstick that likes nothing better than to be a pain in the azz to others not understand that she ain’t reading your bs anymore?
Pat is one of the nicest folks on the blog, and you’ve just earned a DAMNED long ignore from me…………..
So go ahead and respond anyway, at least Pat and I could give a you know what.
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
4:55 pm
DS1 and nolie
Thanks for the support but it goes back to the old “fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me” thing and this is the second time around for me, sooooo……..no more.
MikeInFl
May 21st, 2012
4:57 pm
nolie, from Jane Leavvy’s biography of Koufax:
“By this time, however, Koufax was pitching in almost constant pain. He needed elbow reconstruction, a procedure that would not be developed for another decade. In lieu of surgery, Koufax relied on pain killers, Cortisone, Codeine, and Capsolin, the latter a concoction drawn from chili peppers which convinced the brain to disregard pain messages.”
And from David Young for SI.Com:
“Dr. Frank Jobe, the surgeon who performed John’s surgery, was a former Dodgers team physician and argues that Sandy Koufax could have extended his career with it (he claims Koufax’s career-ending arthritis was caused by a stretched UCL).”
Now, I don’t know… never examined koufax’ elbow or anyone else’s. I think it was called “arthritis” because at the time there wasn’t much research to suggest otherwise.
phil
May 21st, 2012
4:57 pm
I can certainly be testy at times but damn….
Jeff R
May 21st, 2012
4:57 pm
Think Minor and Delgado ARE good pitchers. Just think their youthfulness smacks them in the face sometimes and they lose confidence in their “stuff”.
I would agree, Just Pateeeee.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
4:58 pm
If only there was an actual ignore button, I could block it all out and only read my own posts so much more easily….
MikeInFl
May 21st, 2012
4:58 pm
Should have added, per Dr. Jobe… yes there was arthritis but caused by the UCL injury…
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
4:58 pm
Even as old as I am, I still think MOST people can be “human” and believe in giving second (and even third chances), so call me naive in that respect.
Lost Cause
May 21st, 2012
4:59 pm
This may be the best article I have seen all year! Good job DOB! Be patience fellow bloggers this is a good team.
Sopheee
May 21st, 2012
4:59 pm
…while throwing only 68 pitches, 66 for strikes.
And hitting for the cycle!
DS1
May 21st, 2012
5:00 pm
nolie
That’d make it easier for me to discover if I am talking to myself or not………..
Pat
Agreed on giving some a second chance, but there are some that want to be controversial just for the sake of being so……………
reckingball
May 21st, 2012
5:01 pm
DS1 @4:53pm………Really good post.
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
5:01 pm
nolie
ahhhhh…but then we’d all miss the back and forth between you and scoots.
DS1
May 21st, 2012
5:01 pm
Sophee
No need for overkill………..
Sopheee
May 21st, 2012
5:02 pm
I’m going to have to put nolie on ignore for losing his eee’s.
DS1
May 21st, 2012
5:03 pm
reckingball
Sometimes I surprise myself……….
Just Pateeeee
May 21st, 2012
5:04 pm
Sopheee
Yeah….those eee’s (or something!) seem to be working, huh?
nolie
May 21st, 2012
5:04 pm
blame the site, every time I start using Es this year within a little while the blog quits accepting my posts. got tired of switching back and forth Sopheeeeeeeeee
Murph
May 21st, 2012
5:05 pm
NM Lee uses hotmail, despite all of the security flaws that make accessing someone’s hotmail account almost as easy as typing in 1-2-3-4 for the password.
He’s been very, very naughty…
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
5:05 pm
Sopheee-
Cut nolie some slack- he’s old. He probably just can’t remember where he left them
phil
May 21st, 2012
5:05 pm
Look.
I said I was having a crappy day. Which I am. To that, I get a don’t be so negative, rainy Monday, something to that effect. I respond to it because THAT wasn’t exactly a kind response. And I’m the one who’s not being “human” on a day I would like to put my head through a glass window. Know it alls….
Next thing I know, 2 or 3 of you are coming unglued when I wasn’t doing a thing but acting stupid to relieve some stress.
I think you overreacted, but clearly i did as well, for which i apologize.
Sopheee
May 21st, 2012
5:07 pm
Fire the blog! Who doesn’t like eee’s?
Smitty
May 21st, 2012
5:07 pm
well…..the blog bashsers are hot today. Fun to watch to see who comes out on top. Ooops…hope you of you are not a girl…..Ha
DS1
May 21st, 2012
5:09 pm
As my 3 sons grow into early madhood, I think I’ve had this conversation with each of them (and I have to keep having it with myself also):
You can’t control what happens to you, but you do control how you react to adversity. Being angry or ornery or whatever you call it is a choice.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
5:10 pm
anyway you and Pateee seem to doing a great job keeping Marteeen on track without my help this year
DS1
May 21st, 2012
5:11 pm
Sophee
I love it when others mix in their ee’s or eee’s or eeee’s or even their e’s. That dilutes their total blogging posts for the year, and might help to get me into the top 75 or 50 bloggers for the year!!!
1eyedJack
May 21st, 2012
5:13 pm
Just think what Dizzy Dean would have accomplished with the help of modern surgery.
“Son, what kind of pitch would you like to miss.”
Sopheee
May 21st, 2012
5:13 pm
Wayne – I remember it messed up nolie’s stats a few years ago. He would’ve been top blogger but the name changing made it all break up and someone else got the crown.
I’m sticking with three eee’s this year unless ‘teen ‘teen goes absolutely berserko then I may have to upgrade.
Mixxo
May 21st, 2012
5:14 pm
“Fire the blog! Who doesn’t like eee’s?”
I like ‘em!
But, I’m an ‘against the grain’ kinda guy so…..
I’m good with anything ‘edgy.’
DS1
May 21st, 2012
5:15 pm
Sophee
If what he is doing now isn’t going beserko, wow I can’t wait to see the performance that qualifies as truly beserko!
David O'Brien
May 21st, 2012
5:15 pm
Chipper not likely to play or PH before Wed. or Thurs., barring rapid improvement. He’s progressing, but still has large welt/blister on top of the nasty contusion.
He’s genuinely moved by the latest tribute, the Reds’ adorning bases with the salute-to-Chipper’s-career message.
“Very cool, and it’s unique. And awfully nice and very classy.”
DS1
May 21st, 2012
5:17 pm
Mixxo
If you weren’t a guitar a-fish-an-ado, we’d of written you off a longgggggg time ago.
Murph
May 21st, 2012
5:17 pm
If you haven’t added your eeeee’s already, please don’t. You’ll jinx things and we’ll be wishing Wren had pulled the trigger for Seth Smith after all.
Leave Prado’s mojo alone.
Kirk
May 21st, 2012
5:17 pm
I remember watching the Doc in the stands while Smoltz was working through his stuff. Give the new guys a break and we can talk stuff in October.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
5:18 pm
you mean you aint written Mixxo off yet????
DS1
May 21st, 2012
5:20 pm
With Chipper out of the lineup for a few games, a split would be very acceptable. But we really need to turn around this Monday 0-7 record crap.
Who goes next Monday? Beachy? Oh well, maybe we can bust out on Monday on Memorial Day.
Gotta run, back later.
Bo Graves.
Mixxo
May 21st, 2012
5:20 pm
DS1
All I know is music and sound….and baseball……I’m basically werfless.
*sniff*
DS1
May 21st, 2012
5:21 pm
nolie
Hard to write off a true picker. Just gotta look past the facade. (which is what I hope more folks do for me……….)
later……….
nolie
May 21st, 2012
5:21 pm
maybe music and sound……
nolie
May 21st, 2012
5:22 pm
is he a nose-picker like Bonny?
gotigers72
May 21st, 2012
5:22 pm
Great blog DOB! We fans/denizens need to be reminded from time to time that even the great ones struggled early in their careers. The use of stats for those three future HOFers was a perfect way to illustrate why patience is needed with young players, especially young pitchers.
I can remember a young pitcher named David Clyde being ruined because he was brought up WAY too early to help fill seats and meet fans expectations. What a shame for him. You have to learn how to PITCH [as opposed to throw] to be successful in the majors. You can’t just come up throwing in the 90s and expect to get major league hitters out on a regular basis. Heck, Delgado is 22, Teheran 21, etc. The Braves are loaded with potentially great, YOUNG pitchers. They have to learn how to reach that potential before becoming great, or even above average.
DS1
May 21st, 2012
5:22 pm
touche
Mixxo He got you good there!
1eyedJack
May 21st, 2012
5:23 pm
“Who goes next Monday? Beachy? Oh well, maybe we can bust out on Monday on Memorial Day.”
Is it a day game? We’ve kind of sucked in those too.
Mixxo
May 21st, 2012
5:23 pm
Before the season started, everybody was harping on Uggla and wanted Bourn gone……
I said they’d be alright.
Case rested.
keepintreal
May 21st, 2012
5:26 pm
Good article, DOB. I thought you were fair to both sides (Braves management and the fans clamoring for changes).
I’m more worried about Minor than Delgado. Minor, to me, just doesn’t pass the eyeball test. His stuff seems mediocre, and his countenence on the mound usually isn’t very positive. But he does strike out a lot of batters, which makes you wonder if there’s more there than meets the eye. I won’t give up him yet, I just think his ceiling may be as a No. 4 in the big leagues,
I’m not concerned about Delgado. He’s got wicked late life on his pitches and seems to be a gamer.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
5:28 pm
blind squirrel ?
Sopheee
May 21st, 2012
5:28 pm
Geniuses -
http://shine.yahoo.com/parenting/worst-parent-week-dad-puts-toddler-washing-machine-183500809.html
Poor kid.
BravesFAN
May 21st, 2012
5:32 pm
Great article DOB but I think you have to take into consideration that Mike Minor is 24 years old. Greg Maddux was 21 years old when he had that ERA over 5, by the time Maddux was 22 years old he went 18-8 with a 3.18 ERA in 249 innings, at 23 he went 19-12 with a 2.95 ERA in 238.1 innings, at 24 he went 15-15 with a 3.43 ERA in 237 innings. He had 3 great to above average seasons by the time he was Mike Minor’s age.
I’m sure Minor will get better with more starts we just need to remember how young Maddux (21), Glavine (21), and Smoltz(21-22) were when they struggled compared to Minor who is 24 years old and struggling. Smoltz had 3 seasons with an ERA no higher than 3.85 including one season with a 2.94 ERA as you mentioned.
Delgado so far fits into the category with the big 3 as far as age but Minor is 3 years older than these guys and performing pretty terrible as of late. He had 15 starts and over 80 innings last year and 8 starts and 40 innings the year before that. Combine that with his 8 starts and 47 innings this year that’s almost 170 innings which is just a few starts away from being an entire season for a pitcher. I think if he continues to struggle over his next 2-3 starts the Braves “patience” will finally wear thin and he will be sent to Gwinnett again. He’s not the young prospect like Delgado, Teheran, and Vizciano at some point in the very near future he is going to have to consistently produce or he will be sent down and he might not get called back up for quite a while.
Part of me thinks it’s mental as far as him not being able to record outs the second time around through a line up but the other part of me thinks major league hitters are able to easily adjust to him after an AB or two and abuse him because of it. Maybe he’s doing something to tip his pitches and hitters know what to expect? Does he sacrifice location to put more speed on his fastball? Because I know his fastball has gained a notch or two in the last few seasons but maybe he should take a little off of it if it means he will be able to locate it better. His change up is a money pitch and doesn’t need to be messed with imo but maybe he should work on this breaking ball or simply throw it more? I dunno but he needs to fix it ASAP or he will be pitching in Gwinnett again this year.
faninva
May 21st, 2012
5:40 pm
Sopheee – As Ron White says – “you can’t fix stupid”
richbrave
May 21st, 2012
5:41 pm
What’s the word on VIZCAINO’s current ststus? Are things progresswing according to plan?
BravesFAN
May 21st, 2012
5:44 pm
I know Minor would absolutely hate this idea but since he is usually solid for about 3 innings or the 1st time he faces batters maybe he should switch roles with Medlen and pitch in the bullpen as a long reliever.
Use Livan for a few spot starts in Atlanta so Medlen can get a couple of starts in Gwinnett to get his arm ready to pitch 5 plus innings. I think Medlen is a better starting pitcher right now than any other option we have as far as the 5th starter goes. I’d take him over (Minor, Livan, Teheran, Redmond)
For the BP spot in Livan’s absence bring up Cory Gearrin to Atlanta to fill a BP spot because he is killing it in AAA 1.09 ERA, 24.2 innings, 29 K’s, hitters only hitting .174 against him. Besides he was solid last year until his last 2-3 appearances which caused his ERA to ballon to 7.85 but before those last 3 appearances his ERA was 3.38 over 16 innings which is solid for long relief.
Lew
May 21st, 2012
5:44 pm
faninva – Try to find a band called BBM – Bruce, Baker and Moore – sounds like Cream with Gary Moore on guitar.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
5:47 pm
not sold on Gearrin at all. he’s like Moylan in that lefties eat him alive
TheOnlyBravesFan
May 21st, 2012
5:47 pm
Well, bloggers, I’m out for a while…. little brother has a tournament game tonight, to decide who moves on to the championship… really hopes it rains in Cincy, so we don’t have to lose again on Monday
, and so that I can blog during the game.
Peace
TheOnlyBravesFan
May 21st, 2012
5:48 pm
Oh, and before I go, Drew Sutton just got moved again… poor guy.
The Rays announced that they acquired Drew Sutton from the Pirates for a player to be named.
Spiro T
May 21st, 2012
5:49 pm
the negative nabobs of negativity prevail on ajc blogs.
BravesFAN
May 21st, 2012
5:50 pm
Nolie- I agree he struggled in the majors vs lefties in his short time in Atlanta but he’s doing a pretty good job vs lefties in Gwinnett right now. 2.53 ERA vs lefties and he’s pitched 10 innings to lefties with 10 K’s, not too shabby…
Kat
May 21st, 2012
5:51 pm
They are 20-0 when leading after six innings, 19-0 when leading after seven, and 22-0 when leading after eight (also, 25-0 when leading or tied after eight).- DOB Blog
That was one of those stats after reading it the first time, I had to read it out loud. again Wow, cool.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
5:55 pm
Those three did a live album called Cities of the Heart Lew. the studio album was Around the Next Dream I think.
also Bruce formed a blues-rock trio, West, Bruce and Laing. Besides Bruce, the group included Leslie West and drummer Corky Laing of Mountain. West, Bruce and Laing produced two studio albums, Why Dontcha and Whatever Turns You On, and one live album, Live ‘n’ Kickin’.
BravesFAN
May 21st, 2012
5:55 pm
And if anybody thinks Medlen can’t be a successful SP in the majors just remember what Jim Leyland said about Medlen after his start where he shut down the Tigers for 1 run in 6 2/3 innings in 2010.
This is from the Braves article after that game – Leyland marveled at a player he described as “an artist” who understands “the secret of pitching.”
“I was really impressed with their guy,” Leyland said. “Sometimes guys don’t give those guys enough credit. That guy pitched. He pitched outstanding.”
“I didn’t like it because he beat us, but that was kind of treat, to see somebody that doesn’t throw 96, 95 miles an hour go out and dissect the plate and pitch the kind of game the kid pitched,” Leyland said.
“That’s the secret of pitching, being able to put the ball where he wanted to. The kid, he is an artist.”
faninva
May 21st, 2012
5:56 pm
thanks Lew. I’m still sampling Tora Tora these days! good hooks.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
5:59 pm
BBM Around the Next Dream is on Amazon Lew
nolie
May 21st, 2012
6:00 pm
he was just doin’ a Bobby and tippin’ his cap to Meds
I'll have another
May 21st, 2012
6:01 pm
It’s so nice to see the Yankees and Red Sox at the bottom of their division. Too bad ESPN (otherwise known as the Yankee-Red Sox network).
Kat
May 21st, 2012
6:02 pm
Anyone who likes Rage Against the Machine and/or Tool might like this song… just came across it this evening. Collaboration on an unreleased song Revolution. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xwJ8hsLTsbA&feature=related
BrandonLee49
May 21st, 2012
6:03 pm
Jamie Moyer is a Freak, because most players/Pitchers are washed up by 42. He’s the only redeemable player on the Marlins, to bad for him he’s on a Sinking Ship. Now if Minor can work out his last name in his mechanics, we’ll be dong some heaving Ho, and Forcing The NAts to Over use Strasburg, and he’ll be done by July… maybe.
they playing a bunch of frogs?
May 21st, 2012
6:05 pm
Anybody else take a second glance when there’s a caption that has G-Braves against Red Wings? I’m like are they playing a hockey team? hehe
Didn’t even bother to see where that affiliate plays….is Detroit their MLB franchise?
they playing a bunch of frogs?
May 21st, 2012
6:06 pm
or commies?
he'll fade later, but for now....
May 21st, 2012
6:08 pm
I’m happy for D Lowe
Kat
May 21st, 2012
6:08 pm
they playing a bunch of frogs? @ 6:05 pm
Rochester Red Wings affiliate is the Twins.
Think Chipper will steal one of those bases?
May 21st, 2012
6:10 pm
What is Chipper’s career message that Reds put on bases?
McFann :Ô: :Ô:
May 21st, 2012
6:10 pm
cabravesfan My Mac is pretty sleek and streamlined
Better check with keylargo first…
(ITS) 
1 hour till gametime!!
McFann :Ô: :Ô:
May 21st, 2012
6:11 pm
Oh yeah—and Happy Birthday, Bobby!!
they playing a bunch of frogs?
May 21st, 2012
6:11 pm
Thanks Kat
Murph
May 21st, 2012
6:13 pm
Have fun with the in-game bloggers!
Go BARVES!!!
TheOnlyBravesFan
May 21st, 2012
6:14 pm
BravesFAN
I never said that Medlen can’t be an effective SP. I don’t remember anyone else saying that either. However, due to cirumstances (TJ surgery, not having pitched 120 innings in a season, the current state of the ‘pen) Medlen will not be moving out of the pen for the time being. With all the starters we have ready to come up and contribute, I don’t see Meds pitching in the rotation any time soon.
Now I’m really leaving (I think). See ya’ll l8r.
Spring of George
May 21st, 2012
6:15 pm
Hey everybody…..Anyone know how “Georgie’s” doing in triple-A?
TheOnlyBravesFan
May 21st, 2012
6:16 pm
My Mac is pretty sleek and streamlined
Does it run slow???
hey o
May 21st, 2012
6:20 pm
Does the Mac have an eye camera that needs glasses?
go-BRAVOS
May 21st, 2012
6:22 pm
Cincinnati’s Mike Leake (0-5, 6.21 ERA) is 0-3 with an 8.53 ERA in three home starts, allowing 21 hits and four homers in 12-2/3 innings at the Small Park
A struggling pitcher, mmmm. I’m thinking the bats go silent tonight, especially without Chipper. Only good thing is he’s not a Lefty.
Go Braves!!
"Huggy" Freeman
May 21st, 2012
6:22 pm
May Freeman give out many hugs tonight!
Go Bravos
McFann :Ô: :Ô:
May 21st, 2012
6:27 pm
Does the Mac have an eye camera that needs glasses?
That’s not funny…
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
6:31 pm
Does it run slow???
Not at all. It runs faster than any of my other computers
(which are NOT Macs)
Lawton
May 21st, 2012
6:34 pm
Scout’s Eye preview of tonight’s game.
http://scoutseyeview.blogspot.com/2012/05/game-preview-atl-at-cin-monday-521.html#!/2012/05/game-preview-atl-at-cin-monday-521.html
David O'Brien
May 21st, 2012
6:41 pm
Pirates did Drew Sutton and Rays a favor, basically, dealing him to Rays who had a big-league need after the Keppinger foot injury this weekend
David O'Brien
May 21st, 2012
6:41 pm
Grounds crew just swapped the regular Reds bases with Chipper special-edition ones as they chalk the lines and water the infield.
Michael G.
May 21st, 2012
6:48 pm
That sure is a lot of words trying to explain away troubles for pitchers that shouldn’t currently be on the 25 man roster. Keep making excuses, DOB. It’s what you do well.
ray k.
May 21st, 2012
6:53 pm
I think Minor has a good showing tonight.
Dr. Kenneth Noisewater
May 21st, 2012
6:53 pm
not impressed the braves’ record on mondays. minor and no chipper, plus add to the fact that our bullpen is shaky (mostly due to venters)- could be ugly.
Observer
May 21st, 2012
6:54 pm
Or you could just find another blog if you don’t like what DOB has to say Michael G. Christ, I’ve been reading this blog for years and rarely ever comment, but some of you a**clowns just can’t get enough of saying something stupid just to see your screen name pop up.
Rick
May 21st, 2012
6:54 pm
“Jamie Moyer is a Freak, because most players/Pitchers are washed up by 42. He’s the only redeemable player on the Marlins, to bad for him he’s on a Sinking Ship.”
Moyer isn’t on the Marlins.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
6:55 pm
plus add to the fact that our bullpen is shaky (mostly due to venters)-
Did you not see the stat that the Braves have not lost a game that they have been leading after the 6th inning? Or that they have not lost one they have been leading or tied after the 8th? Not exactly “shaky”
Rick
May 21st, 2012
6:56 pm
Michael G, how exactly is DOB “making excuses?” He just pointed out the fact that three great pitchers had the same early struggles. The people on here are always expecting too much out of our young players.
CaptMudd
May 21st, 2012
6:57 pm
Hi everyfanny! Minor, the ‘first rounder,’ in a slump may just serve up his best tonight. Pitchers like hitters eventually come around and get it going; let’s go Mike—and, Go Bravos!
74bravesjersey
May 21st, 2012
6:57 pm
Chipper’s Knee sounds a hard touch-N-go kinda thing, I know hoping it don’t go beyond day-to-day.
Dr. Kenneth Noisewater
May 21st, 2012
6:58 pm
cab- i was mostly referring to venters, his erratic pitching almost cost us the game yesterday. they’re just not the same “lights out” bullpen they were last year. ERA for EOF & Venters have skyrocketed. glad to have meds/livan and kimbrel holding down the fort.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
6:59 pm
74bravesjersey-
Chipper is not missing these games because of his knee
Rick
May 21st, 2012
6:59 pm
“Chipper’s Knee sounds a hard touch-N-go kinda thing, I know hoping it don’t go beyond day-to-day.”
The knee isn’t what’s been keeping him out the last couple games.
CaptMudd
May 21st, 2012
7:00 pm
I used to buy multiple vitamins from ‘Shaky.’
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
7:01 pm
Dr. Kenneth Noisewater
I don’t think anyone should expect the pen to be as good as it was last year- I don’t think that is possible. But they have been solid so far this season. (also, ERA is not a good way to evaluate relievers- they don’t throw enough innings, typically)
ncgary
May 21st, 2012
7:01 pm
with the 2 starters era up around 12 added together ,
we probably get a 2 to 1 game
CaptMudd
May 21st, 2012
7:03 pm
Reds’ Mike Leake was a first round pick too.
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
7:07 pm
Did you not see the stat that the Braves have not lost a game that they have been leading after the 6th inning? Or that they have not lost one they have been leading or tied after the 8th
Ssssshhhhhhhhhush …………. Ah hell, it’s probably too late. The jinx is on
Wow, Just Wow
May 21st, 2012
7:08 pm
“Ron Washington said he was trying to send a message to Neftali Feliz on Friday night with his early-removal from the Rangers’ 4-1 win over Houston. Perhaps this is a sign they are on the same page: Feliz “absolutely” felt like that’s what Washington was doing. Washington removed Feliz with two outs in the fifth and the Rangers’ leading by two runs. Feliz had just walked a hitter with two outs for the second consecutive inning. After the first two-out walk in the fourth inning, Feliz received a visit from Washington on the mound. After the inning, Washington called him aside, along with an interpreter. “Oh, we had a deep conversation,” Washington said Saturday. “He needed to hear how much guys were depending on him. We made sure to translate it. What I told him should resonate for days to come. The message got across.”
I wish Fredi would adopt this approach. I think it would be effective with some of the head cases. If they can’t throw the ball across the plate when they are up in a regular season game then how are they expected to get the ball across the plate when they are playing in REAL pressure games?.
Heck, Chipper has even stated his impatience when the guys won’t get the ball across the plate.
Go get ‘em Ron!
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
7:11 pm
I suspect the “message” the Rangers were trying to send was that Feliz was hurt…they DL’d him today- going to miss at least 6 week most likely
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
7:13 pm
Whoa, you can DL guys for walking people? Who knew
Better watch your ass Mike
BFChris27
May 21st, 2012
7:13 pm
Twins just DFA’ed Jason Marquis, maybe some home cooking will help him get back to his NL success?
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
7:14 pm
Bat-
No, but you can for inflamed tendons
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
7:18 pm
So inflamed tendon is code for too damn many walks, got it. Thanks
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
7:19 pm
not exactly
njbraves
May 21st, 2012
7:19 pm
Uggla is useless.
phil
May 21st, 2012
7:19 pm
Bring on Minorleague…
Not a #4 hitter
May 21st, 2012
7:21 pm
Dan Uggla is now tied for 2nd in the NL for most K’s…..he has 50.
phil
May 21st, 2012
7:23 pm
Yikes…
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
7:23 pm
cue blog meltdown
Rick
May 21st, 2012
7:24 pm
“Dan Uggla is now tied for 2nd in the NL for most K’s…..he has 50.”
He’s also tied for 5th in BB.
ncbravesfan90
May 21st, 2012
7:24 pm
We have to have patience with him remember, he’s young….hahah
phil
May 21st, 2012
7:25 pm
Homeruns off Minorleague are good so he can keep pitching from the wind up….
nolie
May 21st, 2012
7:25 pm
that prolly coulda been a better start minor
Bravefaninok
May 21st, 2012
7:25 pm
Ouch….at least it was a solo shot
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
7:25 pm
Man the Reds announcers are ripping Minor for that pitch. Maybe he should not have thrown a strike but it was at the bottom of the zone.
One Big Dummy
May 21st, 2012
7:25 pm
Mike Minor Leagues.
Disgusted
May 21st, 2012
7:26 pm
Enough of Minor, patience is one thing but this BUMB is hopeless.
Would you not like to have Jake Peavy now Mr. Wren, he is not doing so bad in Chicago.
Braves Nation thought they would get him but at the time San Diego did not fall for his low ball offer.
Minor is the worst pitcher in the history of MLB, even worse than Jo Jo Reybumb.
Minor should not even be allowed to pitch another inning in MLB.
phil
May 21st, 2012
7:26 pm
Bourn goes to sleep…
Rick
May 21st, 2012
7:26 pm
I didn’t think the pitch on that HR was bad at all.
Disgusted
May 21st, 2012
7:27 pm
I sort of hope that Minor gets nicked up for 4 R in the first so they can take him out and they have a chance to come back.
I am not rooting for that BUMB anymore, because is is so so Jo Jo REyes. He needs to be DFA’ed NOW
Dr. Kenneth Noisewater
May 21st, 2012
7:27 pm
so many homeruns now has minor given up in his past 4 starts??
Fish Bisch
May 21st, 2012
7:27 pm
Trade Minor for Derek Lowe.
ncbravesfan90
May 21st, 2012
7:28 pm
I think now would be the appropriate time for this….Oswalt
Dr. Kenneth Noisewater
May 21st, 2012
7:28 pm
sorry, how
Sopheee
May 21st, 2012
7:29 pm
Strikes are your friend, MM.
Disgusted
May 21st, 2012
7:29 pm
No one wants Minor. Derek was not that bad in 2009 and 10. No WC without Derek in 2010.
Minor is so hopeless, its sad that he is such a bad pitcher.
Disgusted
May 21st, 2012
7:30 pm
When you run the team on the cheap, you sometimes wind up with the Mike Minors of the world.
DJ
May 21st, 2012
7:30 pm
Ok I love the Braves! I fully believe in supporting a player when they’re not doing to well. But seriously? JJ got sent down for less than what Minor has done. Why not call up Teahran (hope thats right) and send Minor down?
Fish Bisch
May 21st, 2012
7:30 pm
Medlin needs to be warming up in the pen.
JC Brave
May 21st, 2012
7:31 pm
Another great Monday on its way already…
I can’t think of a worse combination than Minor + Mondays + Hitter’s ballpark…
No wait, let me take that back, or Durbin might prove me wrong…
phil
May 21st, 2012
7:31 pm
A homer and two walks per inning do not a bad pitcher make…
Disgusted
May 21st, 2012
7:31 pm
At least JJ has had major league success in the recent past, Minor is minor nothing.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
7:31 pm
DJ-
JJ got sent down because he has struggled since after the all star game last year and through spring. Minor has not.
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
7:32 pm
Well I guess Oswalt would have gave up 3 HRs and 9 walks…….SMH Lets go for it and sign a REAL STARTER…….OSWALT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Rick
May 21st, 2012
7:32 pm
DJ, Jurrjens had been pitching bad since last year’s AS break and had a poor spring training. Minor was the Braves’ best starter in ST and had a great three start stretch before getting in this poor four start stretch. He’s not that far removed from success.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
7:33 pm
interesting matchup. Leake is one of the guys who were thought to have higher upsife than Minor and was taken one pick later. so far both have struggled but Leake does have a better ERA
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
7:34 pm
Okay, get some runs
Kat
May 21st, 2012
7:35 pm
Okay ESPN we are in the middle of a game… I don’t care about the Marlins.
njbraves
May 21st, 2012
7:35 pm
Disgusted…Do you speak English??
Charlie
May 21st, 2012
7:36 pm
Dan Uggla is proving to be as big a choker as last year, with any runners on base. Bring that loser to the plate early in the game, and he’s an automatic strike out. It’s like he has no clue at the plate. Once again, he’s proving to be a waste of a huge amount of money.
DJ
May 21st, 2012
7:37 pm
Oh yeah, thanks Rick. I actually had completely forgotten how bad JJ did the second half of last year.
ncbravesfan90
May 21st, 2012
7:37 pm
cabravesfan,
We gotta have that patience with him, oh and he’s young right? haha
Dr. Kenneth Noisewater
May 21st, 2012
7:37 pm
there you go juan!!
Kat
May 21st, 2012
7:37 pm
HR!
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
7:37 pm
And we’re tied
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
7:37 pm
Man oh man
Heyward is letting a hittable first pitch go by in almost ever AB
Now the Reds announcers are saying more dumb stuff
Fish Bisch
May 21st, 2012
7:38 pm
Ben Fransico!!!!
BFChris27
May 21st, 2012
7:38 pm
I am watching Reds feed
I don’t care for ESPN unless I have to watch Braves on it.
FRANCISCO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
7:38 pm
Oh he’ll the ESPN guys are saying dumb stuff. Imagine that
phil
May 21st, 2012
7:38 pm
Someone will get lit up next AB….
Nice job, Franny!
njbraves
May 21st, 2012
7:39 pm
The Braves can’t possibly have tied the game…it was over when they fell behind 1-0 in the 1st inning.
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
7:39 pm
Oh hell*
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
7:39 pm
ncbravesfan90-
I think you said that already (and not sure why you find it so funny) but yeah, sometimes you do have to have some patience. A rare thing among bloggers, I know. But it can be a good thing for teams
count_schemula
May 21st, 2012
7:39 pm
Minor damn it.
Juan lé boo ya!
Kat
May 21st, 2012
7:40 pm
Are these announcers extra boring or is it just me? Their enthusiasm matches that of a spelling bee announcer.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
7:40 pm
That was one of the most casual home run swings I’ve seen. Kid has massive power
JC Brave
May 21st, 2012
7:41 pm
Devin Mesoraco looks like a serial killer… What a creepy face that dude has…
phil
May 21st, 2012
7:41 pm
Charlie – uggla is night and day over last yr at this point…
Sure, the guy swings and misses more than most major leaguers combined, but he’s doing ok and that works.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
7:41 pm
Kat-
The ESPN guys? Yeah, they are lacking some energy
ncbravesfan90
May 21st, 2012
7:42 pm
Patience is one thing, a 7+era through 6 or 7 starts is another. Let’s face it, had he not had a good spring, he would be in Gwinnett right now. We’re in a division which is probably the best in baseball and we can’t afford to give away many games before the first pitch is even thrown.
Rick
May 21st, 2012
7:42 pm
Charlie, you should take a look at Uggla’s #s with any combination of runners on this season, they are kind of interesting. Doing well with RISP and bases loaded, but not so well with runners on or RISP and 2 out.
Kat
May 21st, 2012
7:42 pm
cab-
Yeah the ESPN announcers.
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
7:43 pm
Boring and stupid is a really bad combination, Kat.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
7:44 pm
we can’t afford to give away many games before the first pitch is even thrown.
I’ve never seen a team give away a game before it starts.
And you think 6 or 7 starts is too patient? Wow. Glad you were not around when Maddux or Glavine were in their first seasons…
Rick
May 21st, 2012
7:44 pm
“Patience is one thing, a 7+era through 6 or 7 starts is another. Let’s face it, had he not had a good spring, he would be in Gwinnett right now. We’re in a division which is probably the best in baseball and we can’t afford to give away many games before the first pitch is even thrown.”
The spot was his to lose, so he wouldn’t have been in Gwinnett unless Delgado or Teheran outperformed him. And he also had a great stretch of three starts before this bad run of four starts.
phil
May 21st, 2012
7:45 pm
Heyward often looks like me chasing fly balls….they nearly eat the guy up part of the time, wind or not.
Way to not move your bloated body in front of the grounder, franny.
count_schemula
May 21st, 2012
7:45 pm
Juan damn it.
Just make it easier for me to like you…
ncbravesfan90
May 21st, 2012
7:45 pm
When its this bad, dang right its too patient. Send him down, get things fixed and bring the guy back up. Trust me, I wish he was one of the top guys in this rotation and that this wasn’t even a topic of conversation but the fact is that it is.
LAG
May 21st, 2012
7:46 pm
Is it just me, or does Mike Leake look a lot more like Bronson Arroyo these days?
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
7:46 pm
Aaron Boone is like a bottle of Ambien. Rick Sutcliff is almost there. Too bad we couldnt get Jhon Boog Schambi to call this game
TNScott
May 21st, 2012
7:46 pm
Another great article, DOB. Listening to Fredi’s “explanation” for his “support” for the struggling young pitchers this season, I have but one question: Where was all this “support” for Cory Gearrrin this spring? The kid didn’t give up a run until the last two spring training games, and that was still a whole lot less that what Delgado gave up. Yet, Fredi and the staff didn’t think twice about sending him on the first train back to Gwinnett for someone who gave up more runs in one game than Cory has given up all season. I find this “explanation” just a little inconsistent. I guess it all comes down to is who you believe in and who you don’t. Tell me what’s consistent and supportive about that.
ncbravesfan90
May 21st, 2012
7:47 pm
Rick,
If he had a bad spring coupled with a bad, scratch that, terrible start, then he would have been sent down to Gwinnett, see Jair Jurjjens.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
7:47 pm
ncbravesfan90-
Like Rick said, it’s been the last 4 starts. No, 4 starts is not long enough to do something drastic
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
7:48 pm
Good point TNScott…..now the Bases loaded with Votto this is about to get ugly
Rick
May 21st, 2012
7:48 pm
“If he had a bad spring coupled with a bad, scratch that, terrible start, then he would have been sent down to Gwinnett, see Jair Jurjjens.”
My point was that he’s only been bad half of his starts. He’s only four starts removed from having great success at the ML level.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
7:48 pm
no worries, Mike has got this
count_schemula
May 21st, 2012
7:49 pm
Oh for the love of all that is x.
ncbravesfan90
May 21st, 2012
7:49 pm
5 of 8 of his starts he has given up 6 or more runs
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
7:49 pm
JJ also had a bad 2nd half last year
LAG
May 21st, 2012
7:49 pm
On one hand, Minor should have gotten Stubbs out during that AB.
On the other hand, if anyone scores, charge the runs to Francisco for missing that grounder from Leake.
Thinker
May 21st, 2012
7:49 pm
I usually have to listen to Chip and Joe, but for some reason the ESPN feed is sneaking through tonight. Now before some of the mega-fans start claiming that the ESPN guys hate the Braves because they are calling a spade a spade……I actually find it refreshing to hear what seems like a pretty objective call instead of the homer call. I’m ok with the home feed that I watch most of the time, but I tire of the excuses that they spit out sometimes.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
7:49 pm
we’re ok, Votto is an easy out
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
7:50 pm
Come on Mike, don’t be a bumb
ncbravesfan90
May 21st, 2012
7:50 pm
“My point was that he’s only been bad half of his starts. He’s only four starts removed from having great success at the ML level.”
Well if that’s the case then we could make the arguement that Chuck James could be the ace of this staff
count_schemula
May 21st, 2012
7:50 pm
I’m pro Juan, but this mess is his fault.
Rick
May 21st, 2012
7:50 pm
I’ve got both the Braves and ESPN broadcast here, switching between both every inning or two.
Nola
May 21st, 2012
7:51 pm
Minor refuses to pitch inside.
David O'Brien
May 21st, 2012
7:51 pm
This is not good.
Sopheee
May 21st, 2012
7:51 pm
Don’t you do it Minor.
Squeeze Play
May 21st, 2012
7:51 pm
I remember when the Braves could boast that they had the best group of announcers in the business. Sadly, I think those days are gone. On the radio, Jim Powell is ok, but Don Sutton should NOT be allowed to call play-by-play, and Ben Ingram’s voice is like fingernails on a chalk board to me. On the TV side, Joe Simpson is the only link to broadcasting days gone by, but he’s only average, and Chip is a joke. I think Tom Glavine and Dale Murphy are both better than Chip ever thought of being.
There will never be another group like Pete, Skip, and Ernie. I miss ‘em.
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
7:51 pm
Jesus Minor is shakey
Disgusted
May 21st, 2012
7:51 pm
Minor won’t last past the fourth inning this time around.
Rick
May 21st, 2012
7:52 pm
Francisco just couldn’t make it easy for Minor I guess.
count_schemula
May 21st, 2012
7:52 pm
aaahhhhhhhhhh!
nolie
May 21st, 2012
7:52 pm
see I toldja we was gonna be fine…
Bravefaninok
May 21st, 2012
7:52 pm
Well that is scary,but no damage…..lets get this kid a few runs!
Disgusted
May 21st, 2012
7:53 pm
Powell is not bad but he is just plain boring. Vanilla, but compared to what we were used to, it is not going to measure up.
count_schemula
May 21st, 2012
7:53 pm
47 pitches after 2.
20 of those are Juans.
At least Minor danced out of it.
We see Livan tonight.
I love Livan.
Not in this ballpark tho.
phil
May 21st, 2012
7:53 pm
They don’t send em back to Gwinnett on trains anymore….
Wait.
They never did. Richmond…maybe.
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
7:53 pm
I actually find it refreshing to hear what seems like a pretty objective call instead of the homer call
That may be, but I’ve heard some dumb, uniformed, sheeple bs.
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
7:54 pm
Minor hasnt lasted 5 innings since forever.
Nola
May 21st, 2012
7:54 pm
If you refuse to throw the ball in to left handers you will never be an effective pitcher .
nolie
May 21st, 2012
7:55 pm
caint be any dummer that stuff that Joe,Ron and Brian often say, Bat
phil
May 21st, 2012
7:55 pm
Squeeze Play
May 21st, 2012
7:51 pm
I remember when the Braves could boast that they had the best group of announcers in the business. Sadly, I think those days are gone. On the radio, Jim Powell is ok, but Don Sutton should NOT be allowed to call play-by-play, and Ben Ingram’s voice is like fingernails on a chalk board to me. On the TV side, Joe Simpson is the only link to broadcasting days gone by, but he’s only average, and Chip is a joke. I think Tom Glavine and Dale Murphy are both better than Chip ever thought of being.
There will never be another group like Pete, Skip, and Ernie. I miss ‘em.
*********
love this post. Amen.
Disgusted
May 21st, 2012
7:55 pm
The announcers of today just do not have the personality and imagination of the announcers of a generation or two ago.
Its so cookie cutter and that goes for the National guys too.
The best announcer we ever had in this town was the great Dan Kamal. Hope he hooks up somewhere with an NHL team.
phil
May 21st, 2012
7:56 pm
But….
I tend to agree that Chip has gotten a tad better.
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
7:56 pm
This is where Minor will get lit up
nolie
May 21st, 2012
7:57 pm
Leake lookin like the guys the draft scouts thought he would be….
Nola
May 21st, 2012
7:58 pm
Why do the braves rope guys like Halliday and can’t get good wood on a guy like leake?
Lil' Barry Bailout (Unexpectedly Revised Downward)
May 21st, 2012
7:58 pm
Patience? We were sold a pitching staff full of “big arms” by Braves management and Mark Bradley.
Patience isn’t supposed to be necessary with “big arms”. Big arms are supposed to be getting the job done. Not serving up gopher balls on 1-2 counts.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
7:58 pm
Minor gonna DOM in NATE tonight
phil
May 21st, 2012
7:58 pm
I think the whole corporate influence thing has sterilized a lot of the announcers into robot mode. Same thing has happened to most drivers in nascar.
Squeeze Play
May 21st, 2012
7:59 pm
Chip has improved from ridiculous to just plain awful.
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
7:59 pm
Oh my god! Just kill me now…….
” that was a great catch! If he had not made that catch Bourn would have got on and the Braves could have taken a lead, and the game mat have gotten away from the Reds.!!!”
Too stupid to live.
phil
May 21st, 2012
8:00 pm
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
7:56 pm
This is where Minor will get lit up
******
yuup. 6-3 on the put out.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
8:00 pm
Chip is a LONG way from awful
phil
May 21st, 2012
8:01 pm
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
7:56 pm
This is where Minor will get lit up.
*******
2 on the putout.
D.A. Nuggla
May 21st, 2012
8:02 pm
We’re gonna have to start calling DOB “Stat Man” as he is full of them. What I really love are some of these stats that are just totally irrelevant and at random. Like the one the other day that said “the Braves are so and so since April 10th” (of course it was a winning record) and I was curious as to why they selected the random date of 4/10. I had to say “well, Duh” when I saw that it was the day after the first four games of the year, ALL LOSSES! Stats are like polls, they can be manipulated and slanted!
phil
May 21st, 2012
8:02 pm
Nice throw back to the mound, mac! Lol!
Rick
May 21st, 2012
8:02 pm
“Patience? We were sold a pitching staff full of “big arms” by Braves management and Mark Bradley.
Patience isn’t supposed to be necessary with “big arms”. Big arms are supposed to be getting the job done. Not serving up gopher balls on 1-2 counts.”
I didn’t realize Mark Bradley worked for the Braves.
Are you actually watching the game? It really wasn’t a bad pitch. Had the middle of the plate but was down and at the target.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
8:03 pm
I’ve had to listen to plenty of truly awful announcers over the last few years. Chip is far from awful
Thinker
May 21st, 2012
8:04 pm
“I actually find it refreshing to hear what seems like a pretty objective call instead of the homer call
That may be, but I’ve heard some dumb, uniformed, sheeple bs”
Yeah that’s what I said…. it’s good to get away from the “dumb, uniformed, sheeple bs” the Braves broadcasters sometimes spit out. Actually I take that back. The Braves announcers are informed about the Braves. It’s ok not to slam your home team, they pay the bills. I understand that. I just don’t want to hear excuses when they are doing dumb stuff. Either critique the play or just say nothing negative. But don’t make excuses or “tip your cap.”
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
8:05 pm
nolie_
Yeah I know our guys say dumb stuff, too. But these guys are really bad.
ncbravesfan90
May 21st, 2012
8:05 pm
“I’ve had to listen to plenty of truly awful announcers over the last few years. Chip is far from awful.”
At least we can agree on this haha
phil
May 21st, 2012
8:06 pm
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
7:56 pm
This is where Minor will get lit up
********
or not.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
8:06 pm
WTG Mikey. Guy is aces tonight…
One Big Dummy
May 21st, 2012
8:06 pm
Only 62 pitches through three innings!
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
8:06 pm
Well Hey made it out of it good for him now lets see him make it through 5 innings something he hasnt done in over a month
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
8:07 pm
“Patience? We were sold a pitching staff full of “big arms” by Braves management and Mark Bradley.
I don’t read Mark Bradley, so I have no idea what he sold you…nor does his opinion necessarily reflect the Braves ideas. But- Patience is ALWAYS necessary with young players (not just pitchers). I suppose the Nats should give up on Bryce Harper now since he is 11 for his last 52 (.214 average) with a .281 OBP?
Lil' Barry Bailout (Unexpectedly Revised Downward)
May 21st, 2012
8:08 pm
Rick: I didn’t realize Mark Bradley worked for the Braves.
——————-
He just sounds like he does. It would have been more clear if I included his full title:
Braves Sycophant Mark Bradley
D.A. Nuggla
May 21st, 2012
8:08 pm
Speaking of announcers I was listening to Vin Scully the other night and I swear I thought I had tuned into a golfing match for a minute or two. All monotone and no excitement at all in his voice. Sad thing is a lot of people think he is great!
cricket
May 21st, 2012
8:08 pm
give minor a chance to catch his breath
phil
May 21st, 2012
8:08 pm
Heck, i’m just glad he’s managed 3 innings in decent shape.
We don’t seem inclined to hit a lot tonight, so the arms best stay sharp.
Rick
May 21st, 2012
8:08 pm
“Well Hey made it out of it good for him now lets see him make it through 5 innings something he hasnt done in over a month”
He’s pitched 5 innings or more in 3 of his 5 starts in the last 30 days…
JC Brave
May 21st, 2012
8:09 pm
All this people bitching about Chip day in and day out… have they ever heard the White Sox’s announcers?
phil
May 21st, 2012
8:09 pm
Yeah.
Scully stinks.
Lil' Barry Bailout (Unexpectedly Revised Downward)
May 21st, 2012
8:09 pm
Anyone remember Braves “Big Arm” Jair Jurrjens?
Squeeze Play
May 21st, 2012
8:10 pm
Ok, Chip isn’t awful. But he isn’t his father, either.
Nick
May 21st, 2012
8:10 pm
Dan Uggla is the worst hitter in baseball folks.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
8:11 pm
have they ever heard the White Sox’s announcers?
Or the Astros guys?
TBbravesfan
May 21st, 2012
8:11 pm
went after ball four
count_schemula
May 21st, 2012
8:11 pm
This Uggla is impressive.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
8:12 pm
Nick is the stupidest blogger in baseball folks….
Trey
May 21st, 2012
8:12 pm
Damn, I actually thought this would be a slug fest.
Rick
May 21st, 2012
8:12 pm
“Dan Uggla is the worst hitter in baseball folks.”
Actually that would currently be Rickie Weeks, at least speaking purely at the ML level.
Tomahawk Mafia
May 21st, 2012
8:12 pm
It is irritating how good Mike Leake looks thus far tonight.
Squeeze Play
May 21st, 2012
8:12 pm
JC – good point re the White Sox announcers. I’d take Chip any day over Hawk Harrelson.
JC Brave
May 21st, 2012
8:12 pm
They can’t hit Mike Leake… Homer Bailey’s story all over again.
David O'Brien
May 21st, 2012
8:13 pm
Welcome back, Juan. Booooo
http://blogs.ajc.com/atlanta-braves-blog/2012/05/21/braves-francisco-homers-in-first-at-bat-against-former-team/
Thinker
May 21st, 2012
8:13 pm
Another good example of the ESPN announcers. They are observing that Freeman swings at more first pitches than any other player in baseball so there is no reason to throw him a decent pitch on the first pitch. He will chase bad pitches. Sure enough, he has swung at two first pitches that weren’t strikes his first two times up.
Does the Braves coaching staff not know this? Can they not convice Freeman that if he takes a few first pitches then the opposition might actually stop throwing him waste pitches (which he swings at) in each of his abs? Result? Freeman gets ahead a few times in the count instead of constantly being behind in the count. Results might actually make him a better hitter than he already is.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
8:14 pm
hey Leake was a highly regarded prospect
D.A. Nuggla
May 21st, 2012
8:14 pm
Once again the Braves are letting a “lousy, no-name” pitcher turn the lights out on them. This guy has done nothing this year. He is 0-5 with about a 6.0 ERA and 0-3 at home with about an 8.0 ERA . Is this a mental thing with the Braves or what? The Braves have one friggin hit so far! Well at least they are consistent.
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
8:14 pm
Lets see if Minor makes adjustments
ChattTownBrian (CTB)
May 21st, 2012
8:15 pm
Nick, nuh uh. All the Braves hitters are the worse in baseball of all time. Stupid dumy
nolie
May 21st, 2012
8:15 pm
Interesting in that Freeman swings at more first pitches than almost anbody and Prado swings at less first pitches than almost anybody
phil
May 21st, 2012
8:16 pm
Squeeze Play
May 21st, 2012
8:10 pm
Ok, Chip isn’t awful. But he isn’t his father, either.
*******
no….he isn’t. No one is.
When i picked up the paper in my driveway the morning after he died and saw that headline, it made me physically ill. I had no idea til then for some reason.
JC Brave
May 21st, 2012
8:16 pm
I watch the White Sox’s highlights almost every day. At least the HR replays. Hearing those guys calling HRs is quite comical..
“Put it on the boooooaaaaaaaaaaaaaard! YEEEES! HeII YES!”
I mean, seriously?
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
8:16 pm
Does the Braves coaching staff not know this? Can they not convice Freeman that if he takes a few first pitches then the opposition might actually stop throwing him waste pitches (which he swings at) in each of his abs? Result? Freeman gets ahead a few times in the count instead of constantly being behind in the count. Results might actually make him a better hitter than he already is.
You can read about Freeman talking about that very thing on a recent DOB, blog.
Squeeze Play
May 21st, 2012
8:16 pm
Uggla’s pressing right now. He’ll come around.
D.A. Nuggla
May 21st, 2012
8:17 pm
DOB, you must use Juan’s proper name, it is Juan Ramon Francisco Gonzalez. Well, that’s what Wikipedia says anyway.
kevkat
May 21st, 2012
8:17 pm
71 pitches…tis not long for this game
RWill
May 21st, 2012
8:17 pm
Could you imagine Maddux and Glavine coming up now and struggling as they did and the overreactions boards like this would get? I think it would be even worse than what we see for Delgado and Minor since Maddux and Glavine topped out at 90-91 and didn’t have nearly the pure “stuff” that Delgado, Minor and Teheran have. What’s worse, a lefty that can strike out one an inning as rookie and tops out at 92-94mph, or a control pitcher that barely strikes anyone out that walked more than he struck out as a rookie? Furthering the comparison to the big three, Beachy is most similar to Smoltz. Can be a strikeout pitcher, and will have arm troubles.
I love how even after it’s spelled out by DOB, there’s still some of you saying they need to be sent down, can’t be patient anymore, Minor is hopeless, etc… Did you guys read the article? Ten games over .500 and in first in possibly the toughest division in baseball and yet somehow we can’t afford to have these guys develop and get on-the-job training. Seems like it’s working just fine so far.
And by the way, nice job by Minor getting out of the big jam, you know, the type of jam he’s being slammed for not being able to work out of.
LAG
May 21st, 2012
8:17 pm
Nice kick, MM.
David O'Brien
May 21st, 2012
8:18 pm
Chipper thinks he’s probably still a day or two away, hopes to run around those tribute bases a time or two before series ends
http://blogs.ajc.com/atlanta-braves-blog/2012/05/21/chipper-misses-third-start-in-row-probably-a-day-or-two-away/
ChattTownBrian (CTB)
May 21st, 2012
8:18 pm
Nick doesn’t bathe. He doesn’t shave. He’s all alone in dark and lonely man cave.
Lil' Barry Bailout (Unexpectedly Revised Downward)
May 21st, 2012
8:18 pm
I guess that ball that hit Chipper’s ankle turned his leg blue all the way up to his knee.
That happened to my Grandpa once, too.
Lil' Barry Bailout (Unexpectedly Revised Downward)
May 21st, 2012
8:19 pm
Oh, that’s precious!
Kat
May 21st, 2012
8:19 pm
How embarrassing.
Fish Bisch
May 21st, 2012
8:19 pm
lol
nolie
May 21st, 2012
8:19 pm
OH Mikey
LAG
May 21st, 2012
8:19 pm
Freakin’ bandbox stadiums…
ncbravesfan90
May 21st, 2012
8:19 pm
Patience my friends patience.
Brava
May 21st, 2012
8:19 pm
Wow! Speechless.
kevkat
May 21st, 2012
8:19 pm
Wow..he should be f—— embarrassed
David O'Brien
May 21st, 2012
8:19 pm
First career homer for Reds pitcher Leake, came on a 1-2 pitch from Minor. Oy.
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
8:19 pm
Ok Phil……………. Minor just gave up a HR to the pitcher????????????
Fish Bisch
May 21st, 2012
8:19 pm
Leake just clowned Minor
njbraves
May 21st, 2012
8:19 pm
That’s just unacceptable.
Squeeze Play
May 21st, 2012
8:19 pm
I know it’s not common practice to mess with success, but I have to believe that Freddie will be better in the long term by lessening the extreme upper-cut in his swing. But like I said, it’s hard to mess with success.
count_schemula
May 21st, 2012
8:20 pm
Leake?
Really?
Trey
May 21st, 2012
8:20 pm
I spoke too soon. I am sick of Minor.
JC Brave
May 21st, 2012
8:20 pm
hey Leake was a highly regarded prospect
Yeah, I remember when he first came up. He was quite the stud, and made a good first impression.
But you said nicely… he WAS. As bad as he is right now, maybe better at bats should be taking place? Better contact?
I mean, look at Minor, even Leake himself can hit him…
Kat
May 21st, 2012
8:20 pm
How embarrassing. x2
Brava
May 21st, 2012
8:20 pm
Really?
Lil' Barry Bailout (Unexpectedly Revised Downward)
May 21st, 2012
8:20 pm
Send Minor to wherever Jurrjens went, please.
David O'Brien
May 21st, 2012
8:20 pm
Cozart follows with ANOTHER HOMER three pitches later.
Fish Bisch
May 21st, 2012
8:20 pm
Cozart clowned Minor.
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
8:20 pm
OK PHIL……….you talking trash now
ChattTownBrian (CTB)
May 21st, 2012
8:20 pm
Mike is really a … just not a good pitcher.
BALLGAME!
Sopheee
May 21st, 2012
8:20 pm
At least it was a solo shot.
Again.
Bravefaninok
May 21st, 2012
8:20 pm
……………..ohhh my,Leake
nolie
May 21st, 2012
8:20 pm
OK, its mental there…
Nola
May 21st, 2012
8:20 pm
Minor can only get you out the first time around
LAG
May 21st, 2012
8:21 pm
I repeat, Wordpress:
FREAKIN’ BANDBOX STADIUMS…
cricket
May 21st, 2012
8:21 pm
ok, may be time to get JJJ back
Kat
May 21st, 2012
8:21 pm
I mean at least that was the leadoff hitter.. but yikes.. same spot.
JasonInFL
May 21st, 2012
8:21 pm
I don’t know if I have ever seen a person look more like he doesn’t want to even be on the mound than Minor. He looks scared out there. One thing is for sure, he doesn’t have a go to pitch.
count_schemula
May 21st, 2012
8:21 pm
Cozart?
Really?
Oh, hello Teheran, welcome to the 4 spot.
Fish Bisch
May 21st, 2012
8:21 pm
Minor is a lefty and he will continue to get the ball every 5 days to serve up BP.
keepintreal
May 21st, 2012
8:22 pm
Minor is just brutal. I could understand sticking with him if this team didn’t have playoff aspirations, but it does.
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
8:22 pm
OSWALT !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Jerry
May 21st, 2012
8:22 pm
Y’know, it’s really hard to stay positive when Minor is pitching. He really looks bad and as I said the last time his pitched, he does not look like he gives a shyt. And Leake is being made to look like something other than an 0-5 pitcher with a high ERA.
njbraves
May 21st, 2012
8:22 pm
Sucks, but at least they were solo shots.
JasonInFL
May 21st, 2012
8:22 pm
I am warming up to the Oswalt idea…
Nola
May 21st, 2012
8:22 pm
At least they are solo shots so far.
kerryb
May 21st, 2012
8:22 pm
JJ had the same problems and they sent him straight to Gwinnett. Time for Minor to join and bring up Julio.
tommykk
May 21st, 2012
8:22 pm
11 bombs this year..simply unacceptable
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
8:23 pm
Jurrjens is eve worse than Minor……We NEED OSWALT!!!!!!!!!!!
ncbravesfan90
May 21st, 2012
8:23 pm
Second on the oswalt comment….heck even livan, he can even handle the stick at the plate
Disgusted
May 21st, 2012
8:23 pm
If Mike Minor wanted to spell the work Dog, you would have to spot him a D-O.
No pitcher in MLB history thrown more dumb pitchers and those last 2 pitches were no where near where Brian wanted them
Minor needs to be DFA’ed immediately if not sooner. If he is a prized pospect, the prize is a booby trap. What a waste of a high round pick, they missed on that BUMB.
I cannot stand the guy, let him fail and fail out of MLB. How worthless can he be.
tommykk
May 21st, 2012
8:23 pm
oops 12 bombs
nolie
May 21st, 2012
8:23 pm
Basically Minor has average pitches and not enough command to make them effective.
Fish Bisch
May 21st, 2012
8:23 pm
Minor has no moxie.
Lil' Barry Bailout (Unexpectedly Revised Downward)
May 21st, 2012
8:23 pm
Buh bye.
Trey
May 21st, 2012
8:23 pm
Garbage.
Sopheee
May 21st, 2012
8:23 pm
Minor makes me doomy and gloomy.
Fish Bisch
May 21st, 2012
8:23 pm
Stubbs just clowned Minor. Where’s Medlin???//
Kat
May 21st, 2012
8:23 pm
Ummmmm…… speechless.
tommykk
May 21st, 2012
8:23 pm
Minor does not have it mentally.He breaks down when things go bad
Dr. Kenneth Noisewater
May 21st, 2012
8:23 pm
wow!!!! minor you just suck buddy- 11hrs in 4 starts
njbraves
May 21st, 2012
8:23 pm
Might be time to get him out.
Squeeze Play
May 21st, 2012
8:23 pm
What in the name of all that’s good and holy has happened to Mike Minor?
PIBravesFan
May 21st, 2012
8:23 pm
what the ???
kerryb
May 21st, 2012
8:24 pm
ARE YOU KIDDING ME!!!!! 3 IN A ROW!!! GET HIM OUT OF THERE!!!!!
kerryb
May 21st, 2012
8:24 pm
ARE YOU KIDDING ME!!!!! 3 IN A ROW!!! GET HIM OUT OF THERE!!!!!
afan
May 21st, 2012
8:24 pm
Ok Fredi wake up and get your a## out there…
keepintreal
May 21st, 2012
8:24 pm
This is just sad now. I haven’t seen a Braves’ pitcher look this defeated since Chris Reitsma.
Bravefaninok
May 21st, 2012
8:24 pm
Leake has a .270 career BA!! .270
ncbravesfan90
May 21st, 2012
8:24 pm
Still having patience cabravesfan? Most homeruns given up by a NL pitcher this year
LAG
May 21st, 2012
8:24 pm
OK, that one was legit. And a meatball.
C-Mart or Meds, you’re up next.
Dr. Kenneth Noisewater
May 21st, 2012
8:24 pm
yank him now before he makes 4 hrs in a row
MikeInFL
May 21st, 2012
8:24 pm
First hr for Leake but he’s a good hitter. .270 career batting average. He hit .333 in 2010 and was hitting .333 before this game. If you’re gonna give it up to a pitcher, Leake’s not the worst guy in the world to get hit by.
(end of silver lining comment; you may now return focus to the dark cloud.)
count_schemula
May 21st, 2012
8:24 pm
Stubbs?
Really?
Is Teheran on the bus yet?
nolie
May 21st, 2012
8:24 pm
can we go for 4 in a row? straight fastballs down the pipe make a hitter’s eyes light up big time
ChattTownBrian (CTB)
May 21st, 2012
8:24 pm
No no no Braves. Get the dude out now, he’s not ready for MLB.
Nola
May 21st, 2012
8:24 pm
Get him out of there Freddy and send him to Gwinnett, I would rather see Hernandez pitch every fifth day.
afan
May 21st, 2012
8:24 pm
another JJ..
Lil' Barry Bailout (Unexpectedly Revised Downward)
May 21st, 2012
8:25 pm
Minor will plunk him just to break the streak.
Cap: Where's My Tip
May 21st, 2012
8:25 pm
4 solo shots simplified is a grand slam
David O'Brien
May 21st, 2012
8:25 pm
They say solo homers won’t hurt you — but that rule doesn’t apply when it’s FOUR solo homers.
Trey
May 21st, 2012
8:25 pm
Walk.
kevkat
May 21st, 2012
8:25 pm
Freddi G should be ashamed of himself if he lets this continue…
JC Brave
May 21st, 2012
8:25 pm
The majority of Minor’s problems seem to be after two outs. Shows his lack of confidence…
He better get his head out of his behind soon…
Look, is batting practice…
kerryb
May 21st, 2012
8:25 pm
He keeps throwing the ball down the middle of the plate. McCann wants it off the plate and he throws it down the middle.
Squeeze Play
May 21st, 2012
8:25 pm
He’s just thoroughly confused.
Dr. Kenneth Noisewater
May 21st, 2012
8:25 pm
all this with 2 outs as well!!! can’t you pitch a ground ball minor??? quit leaving it up!!
njbraves
May 21st, 2012
8:25 pm
Same thing every start….he’s good the first time through the order and then gets pounded. Why not give Teheran a shot…can’t be worse than this mess.
PIBravesFan
May 21st, 2012
8:25 pm
I learned that the Braves are on ESPN… just in time to see those back-to-back-to-back HRs. Geez..
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
8:25 pm
Wheres Phil defending Minor at now????????????????
Now Shut up and know that we need OSWALT!!!!!!!!!!
count_schemula
May 21st, 2012
8:26 pm
ball ball ball ball
was that on orders from the dugout?
nolie
May 21st, 2012
8:26 pm
Leake has a .270 career BA!! .270
enuff reason right thar for us to have drafted him instead of Minor
D.A. Nuggla
May 21st, 2012
8:26 pm
Nah, let’s leave him in until we get at least 5 runs behind. That would be easier to overcome than 3. Three’s just an unlucky number. (FG’s thought process at work)
Disgusted
May 21st, 2012
8:26 pm
No way you can keep Minor in a rotation on a team that has playoff expectations.
Glavine was on a bad team his first year and in his second yr he figured it out, and the 89 Braves were not so great.
Maddux also figured it out in his second full MLB yr with the 89 Cubs.
Minor is so much like Jo Jo Reyes its like they were cloned.
The Braves do not need any more lefties, look what flops that Jo Jo and Minor are.
Kat
May 21st, 2012
8:26 pm
Hernandez is up in pen. (per twitter)
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
8:26 pm
DOB…..Admit it we need Oswalt.
Nola
May 21st, 2012
8:26 pm
I have not seen one inside pitch if you only throw the ball outside and over the plate they are going to rope you.
Sopheee
May 21st, 2012
8:26 pm
Livan time.
kerryb
May 21st, 2012
8:26 pm
They should put Medlin in that spot. They have Martinez as the long reliever.
JasonInFL
May 21st, 2012
8:27 pm
It’s games like these that make me flip flop on where Meds has more value. It is nice to have at least a chance to win every 5th day. We don’t have that now. Call up Gearrin and move Meds to the rotation…after he is stretched out.
tommykk
May 21st, 2012
8:27 pm
Livan move up to starter?
Disgusted
May 21st, 2012
8:27 pm
Jo Jo Minor.
kevkat
May 21st, 2012
8:27 pm
He’s done mentally…
A-Ville Ranger
May 21st, 2012
8:27 pm
At what point is Gonzalez just throwing away the season with Minor ? Nothing against the kid but what does he see in him ? He’s never actly like he has the makeup, I think I can see his lower lip quiver when he struggles. More to the point he doesn’t have the kind of stuff to warrent confidence in my opinion. He looks weak in every way.
afan
May 21st, 2012
8:28 pm
Braves need a pitching coach!
Tomahawk Mafia
May 21st, 2012
8:28 pm
Mike Minor sucks.
Disgusted
May 21st, 2012
8:28 pm
“Livan move up to starter?”
Why not?
David O'Brien
May 21st, 2012
8:28 pm
That’s 11 homers off Minor in 24-2/3 innings over his past five starts
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
8:28 pm
Minor should not be starting anymore
TNScott
May 21st, 2012
8:29 pm
Fish- Where’s Medlin? Wasting his talent pitching an inning or two in the bullpen instead using them in the rotation.
D.A. Nuggla
May 21st, 2012
8:29 pm
Rumor has it that he’s leaving him in to work on a specific pitch. It’s called a “homer pitch”. OK, I think it’s working now, so take him out you poor excuse for a MLB manager.
Rick
May 21st, 2012
8:29 pm
“At what point is Gonzalez just throwing away the season with Minor ? ”
Hard to call it “throwing away the season” when they are still 10 games above 500.
njbraves
May 21st, 2012
8:29 pm
Can they please stop comparing Minor to Glavine…it’s ridiculous.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
8:29 pm
oh well we all expected to lose with Minor pitching anyway didn’t we?
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
8:29 pm
PHIL
COME OUT COME OUT……….WHEREEVER YOU ARE!!!!!!!
count_schemula
May 21st, 2012
8:29 pm
Livan will not start.
Medlen will not start.
Oswalt will not be signed.
4 and 5 will have to be hashed out between Minor, Delgado, JJ and Teheran.
I do believe we are at the Teheran portion of the program.
Jerry
May 21st, 2012
8:29 pm
Announcers comparing Minor to Glavine at the start of his career. I’ll tell you one thing Glavine didn’t do. He didn’t give up like Minor has appeared to do.
bravo999
May 21st, 2012
8:30 pm
JJ just gave up 3 run homer to Valencia in Rochester….
JC Brave
May 21st, 2012
8:30 pm
96 pitches over 4 innings. 96!!!!!!!!!!!
Disgusted
May 21st, 2012
8:30 pm
Glavine at his worst that rookie yr was no where near as bad a Minor is.
Glaving at least had some competitive fight in him, this Minor has zilch and Minor is on such a better team.
I hate Minor (as a pitcher) and want him DFAed ASAP.
Tomahawk Mafia
May 21st, 2012
8:30 pm
I guess we can now discredit this theory that Minor’s struggles are predominantly from the stretch because he has allowed four solo homeruns tonight.
Mister Frisky
May 21st, 2012
8:30 pm
It’s ok KK Minor,heard JJ needs a roommate at Gwinnett.
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
8:30 pm
OSWALT OSWALT OSWALT OSWALT OSWALT OSWALT OSWALT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
#tiredofmikeminorsorrybutt
May 21st, 2012
8:30 pm
Mike Minor needs to join Jair!!!! Period!!
kerryb
May 21st, 2012
8:31 pm
afan
May 21st, 2012
8:28 pm
Braves need a pitching coach!
_______________________________________________________
How is the pitching coaches fault when a guy continually throws the ball over the middle of the plate?
A-Ville Ranger
May 21st, 2012
8:31 pm
TommyKK I suggested giving Hernandez a shot last week. At least he doesn’t have a nervous breakdown every time he pitches.
CaptMudd
May 21st, 2012
8:31 pm
That’s it…I have lower faith that Minor can get it done, start looking for a rotation replacement Fredi!
ChattTownBrian (CTB)
May 21st, 2012
8:31 pm
I’m going to buy a Minor jersey. He’s the next Glavine. You see the comparisons Joe just put on the screen between the two through their first 30 MLB starts? Identical.
count_schemula
May 21st, 2012
8:31 pm
Good website. I’ve been making this lately. My only mod is to add a chopped onion to the mix.
http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2009/04/macaroni-cheese/
afan
May 21st, 2012
8:31 pm
J-Man, DOB don’t have anything to do with getting Oswalt.
Disgusted
May 21st, 2012
8:31 pm
Minor bird should just give up pitching and get a real job in the real world.
Any kind of a job so long as he is not a major league pitcher.
Jerry
May 21st, 2012
8:32 pm
You are right nolie. I don’t think any of us expected Minor to pitch any differently than he is right now. The difference to me is that I thought we would make it a good game by kicking Leake around, but that is not happening.
Joe in SoCal
May 21st, 2012
8:32 pm
whats he at 100 pitches…4 solo shots…thru 4? Dude’s got some mental issues it appears..
JasonInFL
May 21st, 2012
8:32 pm
Minor needs to grow a pair. Dude walks around like Eeyore…
David
May 21st, 2012
8:32 pm
History would suggest that when it comes to pitching the Braves know a thing or two, but when it comes to Minor it’s becoming increasingly difficult to keep that in mind.
count_schemula
May 21st, 2012
8:32 pm
I hear Shane Reynolds is available.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
8:32 pm
So what happens if Oswalt struggles? (not that he is going to be a Brave…or be ready before the end of June at the earliest)
Zac in Tempe
May 21st, 2012
8:32 pm
We don’t need to panic and sign Oswalt (He wouldn’t sign anyway). We need to give Livan a spot start and work on Minor in an extended bullpen session.
Disgusted
May 21st, 2012
8:32 pm
Minor is a quitter
Fols
May 21st, 2012
8:32 pm
Minor player t’s are on sale now! Get em while they’re hot!
Admiral
May 21st, 2012
8:33 pm
Minor would be a SICK batting practice coach!
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
8:33 pm
@ Afran I know that…..The other day DOB called me out saying that Oswalt wasnt that good. Thats what that was about
ncbravesfan90
May 21st, 2012
8:33 pm
It will be Livan starting if Minor gets booted from the rotation. Medlen is too key in the setup role in the bullpen and Teheran is not pitching that well in triple A either.
Admiral
May 21st, 2012
8:33 pm
Also, if you need a good chuckle, here’s Minor’s “ultimatum” from Spring Training:
http://blogs.ajc.com/atlanta-braves-blog/2012/02/23/minor-ahead-of-teheran-delgado-in-no-5-battle/
CaptMudd
May 21st, 2012
8:33 pm
I had to leave the game and didn’t see that 4HR’s….man this really blows and hopefully it will blow Minor away to get things in order.
count_schemula
May 21st, 2012
8:33 pm
“Minor is a quitter”
A dandy from Vandy at the very least.
ncbravesfan90
May 21st, 2012
8:34 pm
“So what happens if Oswalt struggles? (not that he is going to be a Brave…or be ready before the end of June at the earliest)”
I promise it won’t be this bad.
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
8:34 pm
I bet John Burkett is available……….
kerryb
May 21st, 2012
8:34 pm
Anyone want to guess how many he’s going to give up this next inning?
JasonInFL
May 21st, 2012
8:34 pm
Wow, came in to read the blog real quick, make a post, and the Braves’ half of the inning is already over. It is Mike Leake. In Cincy. Come on, boys. The offense is going to have to do it again.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
8:34 pm
if we signed Oswalt and he bombed, wanna bet who would be one of the most vocal critics??
afan
May 21st, 2012
8:35 pm
kerryb, if u don’t know then u don’t know much about baseball and pitching.
Jerry
May 21st, 2012
8:35 pm
Well, the guys are making outs at an alarming rate. They must have something to do later. I hope to come out tomorrow with a little more fire in their bellies.
tony austin
May 21st, 2012
8:35 pm
Anyone not see any of this coming tonight? Minor stinking, the Braves making a winless pitcher look like Cy Young….
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
8:35 pm
Last year Oswalt wasn’t anything special
Tomahawk Mafia
May 21st, 2012
8:35 pm
The Braves offense tonight is nearly as troublesome as Minor’s struggles. They have allowed Leake to find himself and jump ahead of them and influence quick outs.
Darth Obama
May 21st, 2012
8:36 pm
I have two words to fix this…………Julio…Teheran.
Cap: Where's My Tip
May 21st, 2012
8:36 pm
Leake finally having his “he was due for a good start” outing
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
8:36 pm
I remember that Minor said he wanted to be traded if he wasnt starting during ST
JC Brave
May 21st, 2012
8:36 pm
This game is totally winnable, but it would require an offense being capable of hitting something against a struggling pitcher… which, by the looks of it, is very unlikely tonight… That last inning by the Braves was sad.
I’ll leave now.
Ric Flair to Right
May 21st, 2012
8:36 pm
I’m not sure I’ve ever seen at the big league level a more mentaly week player than Mike Minor! he has no fight, no back bone what so ever…..He just stop fighting
CaptMudd
May 21st, 2012
8:36 pm
@Disgusted…What is it about Mike Minor that leads you to say he’s a ‘quitter?’
David
May 21st, 2012
8:36 pm
Wow, the Braves really suck on Monday. This guy has an ERA around 5.80 and the Braves are making him look like Roy Halladay!
Minor needs more time in the Minors
May 21st, 2012
8:36 pm
Time to do one of the following:
Bring up Buddy Carlyle for the bullpen and let Kris Medlen start
or
Bring up Todd Redmunds
Fols
May 21st, 2012
8:36 pm
The Braves offense tonight knows it’s fate….it’s not on them. This Minor era is sinking the entire line-up with each passing appearance. It needs to end.
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
8:37 pm
How about we quit just tipping our cap and lets do something
kerryb
May 21st, 2012
8:37 pm
I get sick of this idea that when a player doesn’t execute like he should and has been coached to all of a sudden it’s the coaches fault. Stupid idea.
afan
May 21st, 2012
8:37 pm
J-Man ok I see…
Disgusted
May 21st, 2012
8:37 pm
Minor is not as good as he thought he was — good link Admiral.
ChattTownBrian (CTB)
May 21st, 2012
8:37 pm
Bedard is somebody to think about.
kevkat
May 21st, 2012
8:37 pm
Rick
May 21st, 2012
8:29 pm
“At what point is Gonzalez just throwing away the season with Minor ? ”
Hard to call it “throwing away the season” when they are still 10 gam
This team also had a double digit wild card game lead late in last season. Wouldn’t say we are throwing away the season just yet but it’s never to early to make adjustments with this team. It’s not fair to the team nor to Minor for Freddi to keep “running him out there” till he figures it out.
Jerry
May 21st, 2012
8:37 pm
Why do some of you keep bringing up the name Roy Oswalt? Do any of you seriously believe that we would spend even a portion of what he wants to be paid? I wish you guys would just let it go.
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
8:38 pm
WE NEED OSWALT!!!!!!!
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
8:38 pm
I promise it won’t be this bad.
Truth is, nobody has any way of knowing that. It could be that bad. It cold be worse.
tommykk
May 21st, 2012
8:38 pm
JJ gave up 3 bombs in one inning tonight too
Fish Bisch
May 21st, 2012
8:38 pm
CY Leake has the Barves on lockdown.
Disgusted
May 21st, 2012
8:38 pm
I would give Todd Redmond a start over keeping Minor in there.
FEAR
May 21st, 2012
8:38 pm
Remember when Minor said he was majors ready and wanted a trade if he wasn’t a starter? HAHAHA!
tommykk
May 21st, 2012
8:38 pm
Scott Boras no longer taking calls from JJ..only voicemails
keepintreal
May 21st, 2012
8:38 pm
Comparing Minor to Glavine is comparing apples and oranges. First of all, Glavine pitched his home games in a much more hitter-friendly park. Secondly, Glavine played on an atrociously bad team that was notorious for its poor defense.
Why not compare Minor to the other young arms in the organization currently, like Beachy, Medlen and Delgado? Right now, they’re all vastly outperforming him.
ncbravesfan90
May 21st, 2012
8:38 pm
“Truth is, nobody has any way of knowing that. It could be that bad. It cold be worse.”
Trust me, it couldn’t be worse.
Charlie
May 21st, 2012
8:39 pm
If there is a worst pitcher than Mike Minor in major league baseball, I’d like to know who it is. Why this guy has a major league uniform is amazing. Fredi sits on his fat behind, and trots him out there every 5th day. 4 HR’s and one from their pitcher. Amazing. Minor is totally worthless. No command at all. What a bust. They can’t send him down to AAA, because he isn’t good enough to pitch there. What a total waste. And tomorrow, Fredi the Idiot will spin it with, he just had a couple pitches that found too much of the plate…and “He’s young”…”We’ll just keep trotting him out there” What total crap! Especially when there are options for the Braves, without a worthless Mike Minor. Medlen could start. Tehren could come up from AAA. Anything is better than the crap Mike Minor brings to the ball park. What a waste. The worst part is, Fredi will continue with him, an automatic loss every 5 days. What a joke of a manager. Fredi has the brains of a baseball. Keep trottin’ ‘em out there Fredi. That will allow you to trot out of Atlanta, and the sooner the better.
ChattTownBrian (CTB)
May 21st, 2012
8:39 pm
“Minor player t’s are on sale now! Get em while they’re hot”
They’re hot alright … in thay big fire.
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
8:39 pm
Phil is nowhere to be found……actually he just changed his name and now has gotton the the Minor Sucks bandwagon
Tomahawk Mafia
May 21st, 2012
8:39 pm
It will be interesting to see what kind of trouble Minor will run into with two outs and nobody on base now.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
8:39 pm
J-Man-
It’s way beyond tedious now. Posting it over and over isn’t going to make it happen.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
8:40 pm
It can ALWAYS be worse
RWill
May 21st, 2012
8:40 pm
It looks as though it’s mostly mental now. He just has zero confidence and looks like he’s carrying baggage out there. I think we should give up on him now. No pitcher has ever gone on to greatness after being such a mental wreck at such a young age.
Well, there was that one guy…. What was his name? Hmm…. Oh yeah, it was John Smoltz. Took a freaking sports psychologist to get his head straight…
David
May 21st, 2012
8:40 pm
Then he has a great inning!?!?
nolie
May 21st, 2012
8:40 pm
lookin good Mikey
tommykk
May 21st, 2012
8:40 pm
I’d run Minor out there till his arm falls off..maybe then he will get the message
JasonInFL
May 21st, 2012
8:40 pm
We have one hit off of a guy that had a 6+ ERA coming into the game. Time to get the bats going, boys. Let’s have an inning!
Lil' Barry Bailout (Unexpectedly Revised Downward)
May 21st, 2012
8:41 pm
The Reds’ pitcher has as many hits as the Braves stand-pat offense.
LAG
May 21st, 2012
8:41 pm
And NOW Minor is dealing. How strange. We get Jekyll and Hyde from him these days.
njbraves
May 21st, 2012
8:41 pm
I don’t know if Oswalt is the answer, but he wouldn’t be nearly as expensive as a lot of you think.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
8:41 pm
I’ll sure be glad when Oswalt signs with the Cards or whoever….
Admiral
May 21st, 2012
8:41 pm
Worse news from the radio feed: Jurrjens got lit up for three homers in one inning at AAA tonight
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
8:42 pm
WE WANT OSWALT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Just for you cabravesfan……..
tony austin
May 21st, 2012
8:42 pm
When the Braves are patient the offense does well, when they are not patient they look like they do so far tonight.
Disgusted
May 21st, 2012
8:42 pm
If Minor were not a high round first draft pick he would not be getting all these chances.
ncbravesfan90
May 21st, 2012
8:42 pm
cabravesfan,
How much worse can it get than giving up the most homeruns in baseball?
Random
May 21st, 2012
8:43 pm
Disgusted (May 21st, 2012 8:23 pm): “If Mike Minor wanted to spell the work Dog, you would have to spot him a D-O.”
Oh?
And how would YOU spell the word Word?
“No pitcher in MLB history thrown more dumb pitchers and those last 2 pitchers were no where near where Brian wanted them”
Don’t get me started.
CaptMudd
May 21st, 2012
8:43 pm
And I may add–the atmosphere dynamic seems flat when he’s on the mound; heck, we’re in first place and every game needs to be uptempo like the previous three. This is just boring to watch!!!
ChattTownBrian (CTB)
May 21st, 2012
8:43 pm
Ya’ll hush. Like most any of you have ever accomplished what Minor has in the last few years. He’s still a MLB pitcher. What are you? He’s a struggling young pitcher. Big damn deal.
ncbravesfan90
May 21st, 2012
8:43 pm
And he hits for himself, great managing
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
8:43 pm
nolie-
Don’t be surprised if the Rangers swoop in and sing him, given the Feliz injury
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
8:43 pm
fredi is allowing Minor to bat…….Whats he thinking that Minor is gonna hit a HR………FREDI SUCKS TOOO
Cap: Where's My Tip
May 21st, 2012
8:43 pm
“Jurrjens got lit up for three homers in one inning at AAA tonight”
gameday says it was a 3 run shot
Lil' Barry Bailout (Unexpectedly Revised Downward)
May 21st, 2012
8:43 pm
Yay! Another inning of Minor on the mound!
nolie
May 21st, 2012
8:44 pm
no, YOU want Oswalt, speak for yourself John Alden
kevkat
May 21st, 2012
8:44 pm
Wow..over 100 pitches and he’s batting?..Have they given up on this game already.? Somene please explain this to me.
ray k.
May 21st, 2012
8:44 pm
The Braves realize that Chipper isn’t playing next year, right? They’re going to have to figure out how to score more than a run when he’s not around.
njbraves
May 21st, 2012
8:44 pm
Why the hell would you let Minor hit?? Fredi just amazes me sometimes.
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
8:44 pm
Minor will get lit up in the next inning.
Joe in SoCal
May 21st, 2012
8:45 pm
Looks like Minor just bought himself another start…I can hear Fredi now..”he really battled that 5th inning…coming back like that after giving up those homers…gotta really hand it to the kid”. Get ready peeps.
Disgusted
May 21st, 2012
8:45 pm
Yea–CTB, a struggling young pitcher that is not getting the J-O-B done.
He is losing and that is the bottom line. He is not winning and deserves all the criticisim he gets on the blog.
No excuses, young pitcher, blah blah blah.
McFann :Ô: :Ô:
May 21st, 2012
8:45 pm
This is boring…
kevkat
May 21st, 2012
8:46 pm
Who pitches tomorrow?
TNScott
May 21st, 2012
8:46 pm
Oswalt will not be signed lest we forget the nefarious faction that owns us. One thing I can’t understand watching Minor pitch tonight is why the curveball hasn’t been called more when he was ahead of batters. His curve has been his best and most consistent pitch tonight.
CaptMudd
May 21st, 2012
8:46 pm
….We now can’t get it out of the infield vs.an 0-5 Cy!
Lil' Barry Bailout (Unexpectedly Revised Downward)
May 21st, 2012
8:46 pm
Another easy inning for Cy Young.
ncbravesfan90
May 21st, 2012
8:46 pm
I thought this Leake guy was winless coming into this game?
ray k.
May 21st, 2012
8:46 pm
minor hitting for himself… well, Fredi must be thinking… I dont know what the H he is thinking.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
8:46 pm
I think Chipper is their security blankie
McFann :Ô: :Ô:
May 21st, 2012
8:46 pm
Oh cool—technical difficulties!…
ChattTownBrian (CTB)
May 21st, 2012
8:47 pm
Safe to say Leake’s idol is Arroyo. He has that ugly curly long hair and sprints off the mound the same way. OMG what a dork.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
8:47 pm
TNScott-
Just a guess, but his control has been way off tonight- perhaps they wanted to stick with something that would have a better chance of catching the strike zone? IDK, just a thought…
tommykk
May 21st, 2012
8:48 pm
Cap..Sutton on the radio said it was 3 bombs..he was probably wrong
Admiral
May 21st, 2012
8:48 pm
@Cap: you could be right. Just relaying what Sutton said on the radio.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
8:48 pm
Leake batting 357 now. potent caliber….
FEAR
May 21st, 2012
8:48 pm
If oswalt goes to the Bravos I will write chip caray a fan letter!
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
8:48 pm
Yea Liberty Media sucks……..
I only hope that Schulholtz overrides Fredi and send Minor to AAA, like he did to Jurrjens…..
Fredi would still be throwing out JJ every 5th day if JS didnt stop him
kevkat
May 21st, 2012
8:49 pm
They are swinging like they don’t give a damn. I guess watching your pitcher get lit up is demoralizing.
TBbravesfan
May 21st, 2012
8:49 pm
what happen to those 3 and 4 winning streaks we used to have?
FEAR
May 21st, 2012
8:49 pm
I heard 3 bombs also.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
8:50 pm
Schulholtz doesn’t make the decisions to send players to the minors. That typically falls to the General Manager & Manager…
Josephus
May 21st, 2012
8:50 pm
Just out of curiosity, should the cap be tipped with the left or the right hand?
nolie
May 21st, 2012
8:51 pm
might eat a few innings now, the pressure is off since we are losing by several
hiway61
May 21st, 2012
8:51 pm
We don’t need Oswalt but we do need for Wren to come up with someone ..
Looks like Braves have the Monday blues..never win on Monday.
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
8:51 pm
You seriously believe that JS doesnt make the moves or approves any moves???????
WOW
Tomahawk Mafia
May 21st, 2012
8:51 pm
At least Minor has looked good in the 5th and 6th innings.
Darth Obama
May 21st, 2012
8:51 pm
No tech difficulties on ESPN.
LAG
May 21st, 2012
8:51 pm
Maybe we should tell Minor before each game that he’s hit the 100-pitch mark. Especially since he’s just had two perfect innings.
P B Orr
May 21st, 2012
8:51 pm
Minor is not getting “lit up”. He’s not consistent with his ability to hit corners and keep it down. When he does that, he’s fine. Weak HRs mean batting practice pitches. You’ll notice that Minor is missing McCann’s setup again and again. This is just a plain control problem. He’s not getting lit up. He’s a damn kid. I would have him in AAA just to learn. He doesn’t belong in the rotation until he solves his control problem.
double
May 21st, 2012
8:51 pm
If you do not get some pitching,with all the aggrivation of this meebo.You going to lose some fans,and support.
kelevra
May 21st, 2012
8:52 pm
come on offense……just some show of effort or life….how about maybe just tough battle up there…maybe a 3-2 count…..something
BFChris27
May 21st, 2012
8:52 pm
SaveUs.Oswalt
D.A. Nuggla
May 21st, 2012
8:52 pm
Can’t wait until Wed. night. Cole Hamels is on the mound vs the Nats in Philly. That one might get somewhat interesting, as opposed to this one.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
8:52 pm
Generally, the General Manager makes the personnel decisions. Along with the manager. Been done that way for a long time. The President may have a say, or voice his opinion or make suggestions, but the day to day is usually left to others.
ChattTownBrian (CTB)
May 21st, 2012
8:53 pm
During these breaks between innings I keep waiting for Chip or Joe to not realize the mic is still on and say “damn Minor sucks” … “yeah and we ain’t hittin’ worth a damn either”.
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
8:53 pm
Well Beth Keeners Breast all I can say to you is MOTORBOAT BBBBBBBBRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!
nolie
May 21st, 2012
8:53 pm
You seriously believe that JS doesnt make the moves or approves any moves???????
WOW
yeah pretty much, its Franks job and he does it. has to check on money stuff though
ray k.
May 21st, 2012
8:53 pm
stanton must have been stealing signs.
kelevra
May 21st, 2012
8:54 pm
14 in a row….wow
FEAR
May 21st, 2012
8:54 pm
Uggla in to cool off the outfield fans
kelevra
May 21st, 2012
8:55 pm
monday nights are my only nights off and this is what i get to watch every week
P B Orr
May 21st, 2012
8:55 pm
Jurrjens is getting hammered up in Gwinnett. 5-0 in the 4th, none out. ERA >10.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
8:56 pm
monday nights are my only nights off and this is what i get to watch every week
We’ve discovered the problem!! FIRE KELEVRA!
nolie
May 21st, 2012
8:56 pm
UGGLA UGGLA !
Patrick
May 21st, 2012
8:56 pm
I think Minor has reached the end of the tolerance level
TBbravesfan
May 21st, 2012
8:56 pm
come on big mac make McFann happy
ncbravesfan90
May 21st, 2012
8:57 pm
I bet JJ’s start wont be as bad as his stat line according to Fredi.
kelevra
May 21st, 2012
8:58 pm
you dont want me fired….when im sitting at home watching the game (mondays) they play like crap…maybe i should just not take an off day
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
8:58 pm
I doubt Fredi has any idea how JJ pitched, since he is not there to watch…
FEAR
May 21st, 2012
8:58 pm
well about to be 0-7 on mondays
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
8:58 pm
Well I guess we just didnt want to win today anyways
nolie
May 21st, 2012
8:58 pm
Leake looking like he was s’posed to look
ncbravesfan90
May 21st, 2012
8:59 pm
I think the Reds may have signed Oswalt and disguised him as a Mike Leake look-a-like
Tomahawk Mafia
May 21st, 2012
8:59 pm
That might have been their last chance given that the Reds’ bullpen is incredible.
ncbravesfan90
May 21st, 2012
8:59 pm
cabravesfan,
Just saying what Fredi said after JJ’s last outing in which he gave up 10 ER’s
Disgusted
May 21st, 2012
8:59 pm
Clutch hitting not there tonight, more like Clutz hitting.
double
May 21st, 2012
9:00 pm
Aggravation[[[[[[sorry about that.Meebo caused it…….
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
9:00 pm
Well that hurt. Coulda used at least one there.
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
9:00 pm
WE WANT OSWALT
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
9:00 pm
kelevra-
You make a good point l
Not taking a day off would be better. Take a look at the schedule and pick the day when they are off the most. You can do less damage that way 
kerryb
May 21st, 2012
9:00 pm
Jurrjens has thrown 82 pitches in 4 innings, given up 5 runs including a 3 run homer to the 18-25 Rochester Red wings. I wonder when they are going to send him to Mississippi because he is now dragging down the G Braves.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
9:00 pm
Who is “we”??
kelevra
May 21st, 2012
9:01 pm
if your heyward…you know they r going to pitch you inside…everyone in the ballpark know they r going to pitch you inside…why r u still getting jammed…
Disgusted
May 21st, 2012
9:02 pm
Hate to say it but JJ is not the answer. Hey, Todd Redmond might be the best option in the org, face it, we are not signing Oswalt and for what the Braves will spend, Redmond is probably as good as anyone out there that they could sign.
Teheran, not sure he is ready. Hope he does not get messed up like Minor.
Rick
May 21st, 2012
9:02 pm
ncbravesfan, would it make any difference on the line if Fredi said JJ pitched terrible? I don’t know why so many people here get on Fredi for not publicly condemning a player’s performance. Good managers just don’t do that.
ncbravesfan90
May 21st, 2012
9:03 pm
We, is probably the people who have run out of patience and watched the three consecutive homeruns tonight, including one to the pitcher.
Jay Dubu
May 21st, 2012
9:03 pm
Minor only gave up 5 hits, and pitched 6 innings.
I just knew that Leake would get his groove back against the Braves. It was bound to happen.
kelevra
May 21st, 2012
9:03 pm
cabravesfan
ok i looked….its monday
hiway61
May 21st, 2012
9:04 pm
I thing everyone knows who you want…give it a rest..please.
JasonInFL
May 21st, 2012
9:04 pm
Paraphrasing from a DOB tweet..we beat Shields and Price and now have 2 hits off of Leake who was winless with a 6+ ERA and a 8+ ERA at home…
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
9:04 pm
kelevra-
Damn it! Ok…maybe Thursday?
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
9:05 pm
kelevra-
I am still inclined to go with the full 7 day work week for you though
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
9:06 pm
At least Minor lowered his era tonight.
space monkey
May 21st, 2012
9:06 pm
We just forfeited another game.
phil
May 21st, 2012
9:06 pm
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
8:20 pm
OK PHIL……….you talking trash now
********
lol….i tried to be positive!
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
9:06 pm
We just forfeited another game.
No we didn’t. We are still playing
Tomahawk Mafia
May 21st, 2012
9:07 pm
kelevra
I find myself wondering the exact same thing. Pitcher approach Heyward the same way each at bat.
kevkat
May 21st, 2012
9:07 pm
P B Orr
May 21st, 2012
8:51 pm
Minor is not getting “lit up”. He’s not consistent with his ability to hit corners and keep it down. When he does that, he’s fine. Weak HRs mean batting practice pitches. You’ll notice that Minor is missing McCann’s setup again and again. This is just a plain control problem. He’s not getting lit up. He’s a damn kid. I would have him in AAA just to learn. He doesn’t belong in the rotation until he solves his control problem.
Excuse me..he wasn’t lit up if that makes it better. How about he was hammered in that particular inning, is that better? When you have a control problem like you said and you are not hitting corners like you said, that’s what happens, you get hammered. Yea, I agree, he’s a kid..so is Beachy. I think he needs more mental help to regain his confidence than anything else so he can be consistent and hit corners.
Jerry
May 21st, 2012
9:07 pm
I’ll be glad when Chipper gets back. Francisco sucks defensively.
Tomahawk Mafia
May 21st, 2012
9:08 pm
Braves would be out of this inning with even average defensive players.
kerryb
May 21st, 2012
9:09 pm
Wasn’t it Francisco’s error with 2 outs that started the home run party?
TBbravesfan
May 21st, 2012
9:09 pm
it really don’t matter who pitches to the braves on monday they will win
Rick
May 21st, 2012
9:09 pm
“Wasn’t it Francisco’s error with 2 outs that started the home run party?”
How would that be if they were all solo HRs?
kelevra
May 21st, 2012
9:09 pm
i know every fan thinks they curse their team when they watch but i actually have stats to back it….monday is the only time i can sit and watch a full game…..so i will now be watching the nba playoffs and see if our guys can pull it out and be working a 7 day work week…sacrifice for the greater good
One Big Dummy
May 21st, 2012
9:10 pm
Lemme guess: Minor just needs more patience, right?
Rick
May 21st, 2012
9:10 pm
“Braves would be out of this inning with even average defensive players.”
They currently have the least errors and highest fielding percentage in the NL.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
9:10 pm
kelevra-
You are a good and loyal fan. We appreciate your sacrifice
(If we do end up losing, I’m still blaming you)
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
9:11 pm
These guys said, earlier tonight, the Braves have the best D in the NL. Evidence: fewest errors
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
9:11 pm
kelevra-
Also, Can you cheer for the Lakers tonight? I’d be really happy if they lost
Thinker
May 21st, 2012
9:12 pm
“Announcers comparing Minor to Glavine at the start of his career. I’ll tell you one thing Glavine didn’t do. He didn’t give up like Minor has appeared to do.”
And that is what I have been talking about enjoying the ESPN feed. They provide objective observations about the Braves and the Reds. I’m glad I missed the Glavine/Minor comparisons as Chip and Joe watch pitch after pitch fly over the wall! That’s the kind of stuff that can make a calm person want to throw a hard object at the TV.
Again, I can accept a bad performance. I don’t like it, but I’m not going to go nuts about it. I DO HATE to watch a bad performance backed up by excuses from the home announcers!
Tomahawk Mafia
May 21st, 2012
9:13 pm
Rick
I know that. I am talking about looking at range based upon Ultimate Zone Rating. Fielding percentage only accounts for balls that players are able to reach.
Logan
May 21st, 2012
9:14 pm
Tough night for Minor. We sure wasted all that offense fire power.
Jerry
May 21st, 2012
9:14 pm
Good job Livan!
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
9:15 pm
If you’re listening in out there somewhere, Samantha, get those glow beads on and start stripping. We need a rally, here.
Rick
May 21st, 2012
9:15 pm
Thinker, I don’t think they are making an excuse. Just pointing out the fact that even great pitchers have struggled early in their career.
hiway61
May 21st, 2012
9:16 pm
It would be 4-0 without Francisco….
Mister Frisky
May 21st, 2012
9:16 pm
Go Braves!
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
9:16 pm
Wasnt it Francisco Error that started the Home run party………….NOPE
He gave up solo shots
Thinker
May 21st, 2012
9:16 pm
“Thinker, I don’t think they are making an excuse. Just pointing out the fact that even great pitchers have struggled early in their career.”
LAG
May 21st, 2012
9:17 pm
That explains the no commercials.
TBbravesfan
May 21st, 2012
9:17 pm
can of corn
P B Orr
May 21st, 2012
9:18 pm
I don’t know about you guys, but I’m already sick of Francisco’s bush league antics. That’s not how Braves do it. Punking it around is not an option here.
kelevra
May 21st, 2012
9:18 pm
cabravesfan
it seems to work opposite in basketball….i grew up in San Antonio and root for the spurs and they have won like 18 games in a row. i tried rooting for the hawks…but that’s a lonely road
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
9:20 pm
kelevra-
sigh…then you are of no use to me
You curse my Braves, you CAN’T curse the Lakers…
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
9:21 pm
Hinske didnt throw the bat this time
Rick
May 21st, 2012
9:21 pm
“I don’t know about you guys, but I’m already sick of Francisco’s bush league antics. That’s not how Braves do it. Punking it around is not an option here.”
What “bush league antics?” The way he wears his hat looks stupid but I don’t think he has a lack of effort on the field.
Random
May 21st, 2012
9:21 pm
kevkat (May 21st, 2012 8:49 pm): “They are swinging like they don’t give a damn. I guess watching your pitcher get lit up is demoralizing.”
4 runs in 6 innings ain’t exactly “getting lit up”, especially not at this park. Heck, it’s only 1 run over a quality start in ANY ballpark.
How demoralizing for Minor do you think it must be, to be given only 1 run to work with, in this ballpark and against this pitcher (Leake)?
LAG
May 21st, 2012
9:21 pm
ERIC GREGG (rip) STRIKES AGAIN!
TBbravesfan
May 21st, 2012
9:21 pm
ump this is majors not high school
CaptMudd
May 21st, 2012
9:22 pm
Don’t do my boy like that…Hinske was robbed!
hiway61
May 21st, 2012
9:22 pm
Braves 3 hits and 3 runners..never win that way.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
9:22 pm
The ESPN guys have been super critical of the strike zone all night…didn’t think that was a K on Hinske, and were commenting on the lack of calls for Minor several times
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
9:22 pm
I think the flight might have had an effect on the Braves
smallmouth6
May 21st, 2012
9:22 pm
Sunday has become Monday.
ncbravesfan90
May 21st, 2012
9:22 pm
That day of rest really paid off for bourn (sarcasm)
kelevra
May 21st, 2012
9:23 pm
no i cant curse the lakers….that’s what andrew bynum and ron (metta world peace) artest are for
Thinker
May 21st, 2012
9:23 pm
“Thinker, I don’t think they are making an excuse. Just pointing out the fact that even great pitchers have struggled early in their career.”
Yes and Frenchy was Mickey Mantle…. or at least they would have had you believe that when he was underachieving in ATL.
JasonInFL
May 21st, 2012
9:24 pm
What are Bourn’s stats since he sat out a game?
CaptMudd
May 21st, 2012
9:25 pm
Yes Fredi, move around but never “lose it!”
hiway61
May 21st, 2012
9:25 pm
ESPN strike box= Hinske’s pitch was a strike.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
9:25 pm
no i cant curse the lakers….that’s what andrew bynum and ron (metta world peace) artest are for
Rick
May 21st, 2012
9:26 pm
“ESPN strike box= Hinske’s pitch was a strike.”
SportsSouth tracker had it outside.
Hetch Hetchy
May 21st, 2012
9:27 pm
way past time to use Medlen as a starter
Ralph
May 21st, 2012
9:27 pm
Enter your comments here
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
9:27 pm
ESPN never showed that pitch on their Strike box
Joe in SoCal
May 21st, 2012
9:27 pm
“I don’t like Mondays”…written by Bob Geldof of the Boomtown Rats and Live Aid creator, while working the telex at Georgia State University’s WRAS radio station in 1979. Now you know.
hiway61
May 21st, 2012
9:28 pm
Bourne said he didn’t want a day off…You don’t take days off while you hot because you come back cold.
Tomahawk Mafia
May 21st, 2012
9:28 pm
Medlen looked awesome.
Ralph
May 21st, 2012
9:28 pm
Why the hell is Medlen in this game, this is a spot for Durbin, Medlen should have been in to start the game.
Thinker
May 21st, 2012
9:29 pm
Sutcliffe was complimentary about Minor just then….comparing him to Greg Maddux, BUT talked some sense in saying Minor needs to go back to the minors and find himself. In ATL, they expect Minor to find his way with OJT against big league hitting. Don’t think I agree with that.
hiway61
May 21st, 2012
9:29 pm
They damn sure did…rewind and look.
TNScott
May 21st, 2012
9:30 pm
Nice inning, Kris. It’s a shame you can’t pitch more than one inning every week.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
9:30 pm
I just did. No box
Sopheee
May 21st, 2012
9:31 pm
Mondays suck.
Hetch Hetchy
May 21st, 2012
9:31 pm
That was a stupid song. No surprise it was written in GA
hiway61
May 21st, 2012
9:32 pm
It was when the next inning started. I have no reason to lie.
Rick
May 21st, 2012
9:32 pm
Braves can’t catch a break tonight.
ijonathan
May 21st, 2012
9:32 pm
joined late…but why no between inning commercials on SportSouth?
ncbravesfan90
May 21st, 2012
9:33 pm
Dont’t look now, but Uggla has a higher batting average than Freeman.
CaptMudd
May 21st, 2012
9:33 pm
just an ofer kind of night
Ralph
May 21st, 2012
9:33 pm
“Just keep sending him out there” idiot, not a bad idea so long as you don’t mind losing every 5 days.
Jerry
May 21st, 2012
9:33 pm
Let’s face it, the Braves are toast tonight. Looking forward to tomorrow’s game and hopefully a win.
Chris from the Rock
May 21st, 2012
9:34 pm
This team looks road weary. Thanks for the horrible schedule MLB. Braves will have played 12 more road games than home games after the conclusion of the series.
Rick
May 21st, 2012
9:34 pm
Doesn’t really matter when you only score 1 run.
TheOnlyBravesFan
May 21st, 2012
9:34 pm
Dont’t look now, but Uggla has a higher batting average than Freeman.
And he walks more too
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
9:34 pm
Minor pretty much had one bad inning tonight
TheOnlyBravesFan
May 21st, 2012
9:35 pm
bad call blue… uggla wanted to walk
Joe in SoCal
May 21st, 2012
9:35 pm
Bob Geldof also played the role of “Pink” in the movie Pink Floyd’s The Wall. epic.
TheOnlyBravesFan
May 21st, 2012
9:36 pm
Well, Minor was better 6IP, 4 ER, all homeruns in this bandbox, not too shabby. Of couse it would help if your offense scored more than 1 run
ncbravesfan90
May 21st, 2012
9:36 pm
“Minor pretty much had one bad inning tonight”
Which is the difference in the ballgame
Lil' Barry Bailout (Unexpectedly Revised Downward)
May 21st, 2012
9:36 pm
B-Mac will get it done!
Rick
May 21st, 2012
9:36 pm
I need to try and catch Roger Waters this summer. I regretted missing the first tour after I saw videos of it.
Ralph
May 21st, 2012
9:36 pm
If I owned the braves I would tell FW to trade Uggla to anybody that would give half dozen rosin bags for him.
TheOnlyBravesFan
May 21st, 2012
9:37 pm
Rally time.
MikeInFL
May 21st, 2012
9:37 pm
The difference in the ballgame has a little to do with 1 run on 2 hits so far, don’t you think?
Brava
May 21st, 2012
9:37 pm
The refusal of the Braves to put Medlen in the rotation at this point is sheer insanity. Sorry, but my patience left the park with Minor’s 4th homer tonight. He has no business on this team. He’s not good enough to be an Atlanta Brave.
TheOnlyBravesFan
May 21st, 2012
9:38 pm
Wow ESPN, Matt Dee-az???
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
9:38 pm
Never said or implied otherwise…just stating that he pitched acceptably fine except for that inning
hiway61
May 21st, 2012
9:38 pm
I just went back and looked at it..the ball path was through the box but he caught it out of box..My bad. But it was there….
Lil' Barry Bailout (Unexpectedly Revised Downward)
May 21st, 2012
9:38 pm
Yep, as it turns out Minor’s gopher balls didn’t really matter. The stand-pat offense failed to produce.
Tomahawk Mafia
May 21st, 2012
9:38 pm
Two on with two outs is something at least.
N8
May 21st, 2012
9:39 pm
“They say solo homers won’t hurt you — but that rule doesn’t apply when it’s FOUR solo homers.” Tweeted by DOB a while ago
True. Very true. But then again, 4 solo HR won’t hurt you if your offense can muster more than 2 hits off of Mike Frickin’ Leak.
I’ll take our chances most nights if Minor can go 6+ innings allowing only 4 runs. That’s not to say he looked good. Because he didn’t. At all.
But if he had only allowed 2 solo HR, he’d still be on the hook for the loss.
At this point, Minor giving up runs in bunches is NOT a surprise. This offense not beating Leak’s sorry ass all over that bandbox of a park IS.
19-5 with Chipper in lineup.
7-12 without him (barring an amazing comeback).
Chipper Jones for MVP.
Period.
Michael G.
May 21st, 2012
9:39 pm
Can I see some more comparisions, DOB, about how Mike Minor will be the next Tom Glavine please?
TheOnlyBravesFan
May 21st, 2012
9:39 pm
Brava: again I will say, Medlen will not be starting because Fredi needs another reliable bullpen arm and Meds isn’t stretched out enough to start.
People: STOP SUGGESTING MEDLEN TO THE ROTATION. IT WON’T HAPPEN.
Sopheee
May 21st, 2012
9:40 pm
What the fudge is FSS doing?
Venice Jim
May 21st, 2012
9:40 pm
Richard Justice @richardjustice
Rangers will consider signing Roy Oswalt as Feliz goes on DL.
TheOnlyBravesFan
May 21st, 2012
9:41 pm
Dang heyward, watch a strike, swing at a ball.
Lil' Barry Bailout (Unexpectedly Revised Downward)
May 21st, 2012
9:41 pm
We just need Cincy to walk four more batters.
TBbravesfan
May 21st, 2012
9:41 pm
thats right fred stop this little rally
Tomahawk Mafia
May 21st, 2012
9:42 pm
Time for Jason to make some adjustments. Getting jammed on fastballs and missing offspeed pitches by a foot is getting old.
Brava
May 21st, 2012
9:42 pm
That’s your opinion, TOBF. I disagree.
tommykk
May 21st, 2012
9:42 pm
praying for a walk
Reid in EAV
May 21st, 2012
9:42 pm
No commercials and brief flashes of soccer highlights. Nice to know that professionals are in charge of the FSS broadcast.
LAG
May 21st, 2012
9:43 pm
TheOnlyBravesFan – Wow ESPN, Matt Dee-az???
Correct (well, closer) Spanish pronunciation. The way Matty pronounces it is a huge anomaly.
CaptMudd
May 21st, 2012
9:43 pm
Yeah…Nice game Ump.
Sopheee
May 21st, 2012
9:43 pm
Bah humbug.
ncbravesfan90
May 21st, 2012
9:43 pm
Yikes, Heyward down to .241
TheOnlyBravesFan
May 21st, 2012
9:43 pm
Get them tomorrow folks. 0-9 on Monday’s now???
It never helps to win when your offense scores 1 run. Another lose without Chipper.
brian
May 21st, 2012
9:44 pm
nice post N8 and my thoughts exactly.
Minor will get all the attention on the blog and the press – 6IP and 4 ER not good but not terrible (the 4 solo HR including one to the pitcher was terrible).
It is our lack of offense that was sorry tonight. Freeman’s at bat in the 9th seemed to sum up the evening. Just sorry
njbraves
May 21st, 2012
9:44 pm
Say what you want about Minor, but the offense got shut down by Leake.
Tomahawk Mafia
May 21st, 2012
9:44 pm
That game was no fun to watch. I am having a little bit of concern about the Braves offense right now, but they should be able to snap out of this small funk they are in. I am also ready for the Braves to string together some wins like they did back in early to mid April.
phil
May 21st, 2012
9:44 pm
Wayward….0-4….sigh.
Get em tomorrow hopefully.
TBbravesfan
May 21st, 2012
9:45 pm
boy that 1 and 5 leack is goooood.
tommykk
May 21st, 2012
9:45 pm
Heyward is plummeting again
TheOnlyBravesFan
May 21st, 2012
9:46 pm
Heyward needs to step it up, I know it’s still early in this season and he’s only 22, but after almost 2 years of struggling, you gotta wonder if he’s ready. He hasn’t been right IMO since after the thumb injury in his rookie season.
Rob from SC
May 21st, 2012
9:46 pm
Heyward = Lost….
Time for some AAA time
Lil' Barry Bailout (Unexpectedly Revised Downward)
May 21st, 2012
9:46 pm
What the Braves offense has “snapped out of” was the overachieving hot streak they were all on to start the season.
We now return you to your regularly scheduled offensive lameness.
ncbravesfan90
May 21st, 2012
9:47 pm
It doesnt get much better down at Triple A tonight folks, here’s JJ’s stat line:
4.1IP 11 hits 7R 6ER 1BB 4K’s
CaptMudd
May 21st, 2012
9:47 pm
“Not a bad outing for Mike Minor.” Mr. Jordan’s @ssnalysis.
onlyonce
May 21st, 2012
9:47 pm
TheOnlyBravesFan
If you think Medlen shouldn’t be in the rotation then your as stupid as Fruti.
N8
May 21st, 2012
9:49 pm
Leak is terrible. If you can’t hit Mike Leak. You might not be able to hit. What did they make him throw in the 5th and 6th inning (maybe it was the 6th and 7th? I can’t remember)….. a total of about 14 pitches?
Horrible.
By my calculations, the Braves NEED Chipper to play in about 85-95 of the remaining 119 games to remotely have a shot at 90+ wins.
Who out there thinks he’s playin in around 90 more games this year?
hiway61
May 21st, 2012
9:49 pm
I hate Monday night basebll…Good-night Braves fans..
obravesfan
May 21st, 2012
9:50 pm
Del gotta go and Mike to the minors
Rick
May 21st, 2012
9:52 pm
“What the Braves offense has “snapped out of” was the overachieving hot streak they were all on to start the season.
We now return you to your regularly scheduled offensive lameness.”
Braves’ last 7 before today: 275/337/385, 34 runs. Not bad at all really.
Rick
May 21st, 2012
9:52 pm
“If you think Medlen shouldn’t be in the rotation then your as stupid as Fruti.”
I think you missed his point.
Brava
May 21st, 2012
9:53 pm
And the Nats beat the Philth.
Del
May 21st, 2012
9:53 pm
One of the worst games I’ve ever seen the Braves play.
TheOnlyBravesFan
May 21st, 2012
9:56 pm
It doesnt get much better down at Triple A tonight folks, here’s JJ’s stat line:
4.1IP 11 hits 7R 6ER 1BB 4K’s
If you look at the tape, you’ll see that he had some bad defense behind him, there were some balls that should’ve been caught that weren’t and runs scored because of it. He’s looking good down there. It’s not as bad as the numbers show. —- My best Fredi Gonzalez impersonation
TheOnlyBravesFan
If you think Medlen shouldn’t be in the rotation then your as stupid as Fruti.
The name calling! It’d be nice to have Meds in the rotation, but it isn’t happening right now. If he was, all of you pocket managers would be calling for Fredi’s head because he mismanaged Medlen. Not to mention the heat he’d be taking for using up his good arms in the pen. For O’Ventbrel’s sake, Medlen is in the pen. Get over it dude.
The team is 9 games over .500 a quarter way thru the season. I don’t get what the whining is about. It could be worse.You could be a Padres fan.
BravesFAN
May 21st, 2012
9:57 pm
DOB when are we gonna read about JHey’s struggles at the plate? All I ever hear is how great he’s doing but the fact is he’s hitting a god awful .241 and has a OBP of .333 which is more than 40 points lower than his rookie year OBP. His average and OBP have steadily dropped over the last month or so. He doesn’t hit for enough power to justify a .241 average and a .333 OBP. For somebody that’s supposed to be the next superstar in Atlanta he sure doesn’t put the ball in play too much. If he wants to be a star he’s gonna have to step it up. No excuses anymore. He needs to just go out and get it done…
TheOnlyBravesFan
May 21st, 2012
9:58 pm
“If you think Medlen shouldn’t be in the rotation then your as stupid as Fruti.”
I think you missed his point.
Thanks Rick, at least someone gets it. I’m getting tired of all these ‘tards who think they’re so great. If you want to manage the team (better than Fredi in your opinion),I’ll give Frank a call to set you up with an interview.
CaptMudd
May 21st, 2012
10:00 pm
“Hang around,” Give yourself to lose the game….Fredi makes a valid point.
O.J.
May 21st, 2012
10:00 pm
What is that now 0-7 on Mondays?
I told a buddy of mine at work that the Braves were going to lose tonight for 3 reasons,
1. Its Monday
2. Minor was pitching
3. Leake had an ERA over 6 and was winless, so of course his first win would come at the expense of the Braves and he would also look like Cy Fricking Young.
Now, we will win tomorrow because its Latos, and then we will beat Arroyo, but of course we will lose to Bailey.
Something needs to be done about the scouting department, pretty sad when you continously suck against horrible no name pitching but get it done against the Aces of the staff.
Mister Frisky
May 21st, 2012
10:01 pm
Freeman and Heyward trending downward especially Heyward.Can see him in the 220’s by Memorial Day.Seems Fredi doesn’t feel comfortable unless he has someone in the rotation that gives his team ZERO chance of winning.KK,Lowe,JJ, now Mike Minor League.
Rick
May 21st, 2012
10:01 pm
“The team is 9 games over .500 a quarter way thru the season. I don’t get what the whining is about. It could be worse.You could be a Padres fan.”
The way fans talk on here, you’d think it were a Padres board.
TNScott
May 21st, 2012
10:03 pm
Kris can start and go as long as he can in the first start and then be stretched out in subsequent outings if Fredi wants to. That’s the way it’s been done in the times past when it was needed, and it’s past being needed. It’s pointless for Kris to continue to pitch once or twice for an inning a week when he is more valuable in the rotation.
TheOnlyBravesFan
May 21st, 2012
10:04 pm
Something needs to be done about the scouting department, pretty sad when you continously suck against horrible no name pitching but get it done against the Aces of the staff.
I don’t mind beating up aces even if we look mediocre against the other guys. We’re on pace to win nearly 100 games and make the playoffs. If I remember correctly, usually aces pitch in the playoffs, not no name pitchers. I’d be more concerned if we couldn’t hit aces.
Rick
May 21st, 2012
10:04 pm
Mister Frisky, KK has not pitched a single game for Fredi.
brian
May 21st, 2012
10:05 pm
Heyward is 22 – give him a break.
JJ is not the answer to the rotation. The Braves knew what they were doing when they sent him down. They saw something that they didn’t like. He is not the same pitcher this year.
From the minors it will be Teheran or Redmond. In the majors it will be either Medlen, Martinez or Livan – if they make a change from Minor.
Medlen will stay in the bullpen. He has been the best along with Kimbrel in the bullpen. I just don’t see them moving Kimbrel from the bullpen
TheOnlyBravesFan
May 21st, 2012
10:05 pm
where’s cab and nolie? the voices of reason
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
10:07 pm
My voice needs a break. Tired of shouting into the wind
Brava
May 21st, 2012
10:07 pm
I’m getting tired of all these ‘tards who think they’re so great. If you want to manage the team (better than Fredi in your opinion),I’ll give Frank a call to set you up with an interview.
Who the hell do you think you are? Might I remind you that you are just another poster here whose opinion isn’t any more valid than anyone else’s. You call someone out for calling names, then turn around and do the same yourself to people you don’t agree with. Get over yourself.
Mister Frisky
May 21st, 2012
10:07 pm
Sorry Rick,I stand corrected.Why let the truth get in the way of a good post.
brian
May 21st, 2012
10:07 pm
I wonder how Minor would do in the bullpen right now?
Nick
May 21st, 2012
10:07 pm
The Braves have an uncanny ability of looking legit one night and then looking like the worst team in baseball the next. 2 hits off a guy 0-5, 6+ ERA is pathetic.
Nick
May 21st, 2012
10:09 pm
I still lean more to this team being the Sept. ‘11 Braves team.
DS1
May 21st, 2012
10:11 pm
How long will we have to wait until Mitchell chimes in with his embarrassment post for tonight?
TheOnlyBravesFan
May 21st, 2012
10:11 pm
Medlen will stay in the bullpen. He has been the best along with Kimbrel in the bullpen. I just don’t see them moving Kimbrel from the bullpen
He will and should stay in the pen. He’s a reliable RHP that Fredi can use in a non-save situation.
Cap: Where's My Tip
May 21st, 2012
10:12 pm
you can tell a pitcher is really struggling when a positive he takes away from a start is that he gave up runs as opposed to those pitchers who strive to not give up any runs
CaptMudd
May 21st, 2012
10:12 pm
Making light of 4 solo home runs? Well they equal one grand slam, and, when you give up a ’salami,’ you usually lose.
Brava
May 21st, 2012
10:12 pm
I don’t Nick. This team is a very good one, but I imagine it’s hard to get motivated when playing behind a pitcher like Minor who’s had so many bad starts in a row. Plus, there’s the Monday thing. Ballplayers are a superstitious lot. They need to get that monkey off their backs.
Steve from OH
May 21st, 2012
10:14 pm
The Braves are in a bit of a pickle. Hard to send Minor back down…the guy has to learn how to pitch at this level, and another minor league stint isn’t going to benefit him at all, period. Delgado hasn’t been awful and in the presence of a good JJ or Minor he’d be more than adequate as a 5th starter. But this club is really 2 starting pitchers short of being tops in the league. It’s hard to pass up that kind of opportunity to have a legitimate shot to go deep into the playoffs, but on the other hand you’ve been developing Minor/Delgado/Teheran for how long, and you jump ship now on them? At some point they’ve got to stay in the rotation, and at some point you’ve got to risk them taking their lumps. And compound that with the difficulty of going out and getting someone with no readily available cash.
And it’s apparent JJ isn’t the answer at this point.
Oh, and Meds has to stay in the ‘pen, we need that depth there, and we need to take some stress off Venters and EOF.
DS1
May 21st, 2012
10:21 pm
Steve
Good to see you on the board. I agree with everything you state, but also how many “lumps” can a club risk taking before they bring up Teheran for a few starts, while letting Minor work things out in the pen as a middle reliever.
Seems he does pretty well until the second or third time through a lineup.
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
10:21 pm
I think J-Hey is a streaky hitter I think he will turn it around and get that AVG up to .270…… But he collects walks makes the pitcher work , to go along with the Gold Glove Claiber defense and great baserunning ability………Would you rather Diaz be in there every game????
Steve from OH
May 21st, 2012
10:24 pm
but also how many “lumps” can a club risk taking before they bring up Teheran for a few starts, while letting Minor work things out in the pen as a middle reliever.
Well, that’s the whole point. Teheran is gonna take his lumps too. Those three are the future of the rotation, and they’ve gotta take a few beatings, be it this season or next or whenever. So while it’s certainly reasonable to go for it this year and let them wallow in AAA anguish or the bullpen for another season, what about next year? They’re gonna get knocked around a bit then and I guarantee you the board will be expecting us to win just as many games then as they do now…and our club will be just as strong.
Later…
Venice Jim
May 21st, 2012
10:25 pm
One of the worst games I’ve ever seen the Braves play.
Either excellent sarcasm, superb hyperbole, or someone who’s been watching the Braves for a very short time…
DS1
May 21st, 2012
10:27 pm
VJ
It was such a terrible game, I fell asleep in the top of the 2nd and didn’t wake up until the bottom of the 8th.
Just my body helping me to not have to experience all the carnage.
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
10:28 pm
My suggestions
1.Man up and pay Oswalt.
2. Or Bring up Teheran
3. Or let Medlen start and let Minor be the reliever
4. Or Move Minor to the Minors And Bring up Gerrin and move Meden to the Rotation
5. Or Trade Minor……….we have the SAME player in Sean Gilmartin anyways
Venice Jim
May 21st, 2012
10:30 pm
DS1 – working during the game, keeping up on my phone, so I stayed awake with little trouble. The surprising thing was that the game was so quick I only got to see the last 3 hitters when I got home…
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
10:30 pm
Minor just isnt effective. The only reason he hasnt been demoted is because he is the Staffs only Lefty.
DS1
May 21st, 2012
10:30 pm
J-MAN
Why would you want to pay good money for Oswalt. He seemed to be washed up last year.
I think Minor will get another start(s) and if necessary, either 2,3 or 4 will be used if he continues to struggle.
DS1
May 21st, 2012
10:32 pm
My guess is that Minor comes back and has a decent outing on Saturday. But then again, I am always hopeful.
RWill
May 21st, 2012
10:32 pm
The Braves lose, are 2-2 on the road trip, and are still 9 games above .500, yet the sky is falling.
To anyone wondering why Medlen isn’t in the rotation: You ok with burning out O’Flaherty and Venters again this year? Do you like the idea of very good and fresh arms in the bullpen for September? Do you not see value in that?
Anyone really want to blame this game on Minor when the offense scores one run? Who wants to look up Maddux/Glavine/Smotlz’s records when they’re team only scored one run?
Pathetic that people want to give up on the two of the Brave’s top 5 prospects after less than one year’s worth of starts each. I know, it’s not the same as when Glavine and Smotlz struggled because they weren’t on teams contending for the playoffs. What an awful dilemma… Two (three if you count Teheran) top prospect pitchers that are trying to break into the majors on a playoff contending team. No wonder everyone around here is so miserable :/
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
10:32 pm
Drew Sutton got traded again to the Tampa Bay Rays
Venice Jim
May 21st, 2012
10:33 pm
Jon Heyman @JonHeymanCBS
Aroldis chapman arrested for driving 93 mph on suspended license. Musta had ‘em on the slow gun. #reds
DS1
May 21st, 2012
10:34 pm
From what I could tell (after the fact), Minor got out of a jam in one inning, but did OK if you don’t count the back to back to back’s.
But I realize those get counted………….
BravesFAN
May 21st, 2012
10:35 pm
Sorry to rain on your parade but if Minor keeps giving up 4,5,6,7 ER’s every 5th day Medlen will be in the starting rotation. He’s the best option the Braves have for a 5th starter right now if Minor doesn’t get it together in the next 2-3 starts. They would only use Livan for a few spot starts at most, JJ is terrible right now, Redmond will never get a real chance in the majors because he doesn’t have the stuff to consistently get major league hitters out, Teheran hasn’t been nearly as impressive this year in Gwinnett. He only lasted 2.2 innings in his last start giving up 7 hits, 5 walks, and 4 ER’s. Teheran has only made it past the 5th inning twice this year that should tell you all you need to know
If Minor keeps struggling Medlen will move into the rotation and Cory Gearrin – 1.09 ERA in AAA will be called up to fill his long relief role in the pen. Medlen might be moved down to Gwinnett for a start or two to get his arm ready to pitch 5 plus innings or until he feels he’s ready to start every 5th day. If you don’t think Fredi and Frank have already thought about putting Medlen in the starting rotation then you’re an idiot. Relievers are a lot easier to come by than starting pitchers and if Minor keeps struggling the Braves will go with the pitcher they feel like will give them the best chance to win every 5th day and they know that’s Kris Medlen. Let’s not forget how well he pitched as a starter in 2010.
Even opposing managers loved his game. These are quotes from Jim Leyland after Medlen only gave up 1 run in 6 and 2/3 innings vs his Tigers –
“I was really impressed with their guy,” Leyland said. “Sometimes guys don’t give those guys enough credit. That guy pitched. He pitched outstanding.”
“I didn’t like it because he beat us, but that was kind of a treat, to see somebody that doesn’t throw 96, 95 miles an hour go out and dissect the plate and pitch the kind of game the kid pitched,” Leyland said.
“That’s the secret of pitching, being able to put the ball where he wanted to. The kid, is an artist.”
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
10:38 pm
DS1-
Minor had one bad inning and the bats didn’t help out. He pitched into and out of jams in the 1st & 2nd, and after giving up the home runs, pitched very well in the 5th & 6th (and in the 3rd)…unfortunately, the 4th cost us the game…
DS1
May 21st, 2012
10:38 pm
BravesFan
I think you might have missed the memo on Teheran. Last year he dominated AAA hitters. This spring he was sent to Gwinnett specifically to work on his off speed pitches. Might be that he is truly working on his worst pitches, which might be 1 reason his record is not better this year.
Just my guess though.
brian
May 21st, 2012
10:39 pm
it is easier to trade for a bullpen arm than a starter, and cheaper too. If the Braves could find a good relief pitcher on the trade market, then expect Medlen in the rotation. Short of that then Medlen will stay in the rotation.
Crow from KC would be nice but I am sure the price would have to be right for Moore to move him
BravesFAN
May 21st, 2012
10:39 pm
BTW, personally, I think Minor will get it together and the Braves won’t be forced to decided what to do about a 5th starter. He looked better today than in his previous 3 starts. He’s got a lot to learn and has to work on composure but he has the stuff to be a solid back end rotation starter for a good team once he gets it together.
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
10:40 pm
Enough rationalizing crap Minor has been awful since April………..But on a plus not he dropped his ERA from 7.09 to 6.96………….Wow .13 points wow he must be an ace????????????
DS1
May 21st, 2012
10:40 pm
That’s kinda what I had picked up second hand. A positive person could say this game was a step forward.
So, that’s my story and I’m sticking to it…………… for now.
Brava
May 21st, 2012
10:40 pm
I’m sorry, the Medlen has to stay in the bullpen meme isn’t playing with me. They can bring up Gearrin, who’s pitching very well at Gwinnett, and they have Livan and Martinez who can both pitch multiple innings. Medlen is a better starting pitching option than Minor, JJ or Teheran. I understand the Braves want to develop their young pitchers but at what cost to the team? We are in the toughest division in baseball. I guess the question is, can they afford to develop two struggling youngsters at one time and still contend?
Darth Obama
May 21st, 2012
10:41 pm
Yeah, he gave up four runs instead of six. That’s great!
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
10:41 pm
That’s the secret of pitching, being able to put the ball where he wanted to. The kid, is an artist.” _ BravesFAN
$ ……… The pitcher/artist formerly known as Meldeen.
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
10:41 pm
2nd worst ERA in the Naational League……..BravesFAN please spin that into a positive
ChattTownBrian (CTB)
May 21st, 2012
10:43 pm
How crazy so many of us are talking about getting a starter. Hasn’t that been the main strength with the team for 2 years now?
But yeah, we need another good arm in the rotation. I still could see maybe Burnett or more realistic is a Bedard.
Venice Jim
May 21st, 2012
10:44 pm
Because he’s a great reliever, and might not be a great starter – but I know you ignore my opinion…
Lawton
May 21st, 2012
10:45 pm
I think Minor was a little bit fortunate tonight. He wiggled off the hook in the second an never showed command until his last 7 hitters. More mistake pitches and he paid dearly. All 4 homeruns were hit with 2 strike counts.
David O'Brien
May 21st, 2012
10:45 pm
Jair Jurrjens gave up 11 hits, 7 R (6 ER) in 4-1/3 innings tonight in Triple-A Gwinnett’s 10-1 loss to Rochester.
He has a 6.10 ERA in five starts for Gwinnett.
Venice Jim
May 21st, 2012
10:45 pm
Jon Heyman @JonHeymanCBS
#yankees go 0 for 13 with risp tonite. And no, wiseguy, that doesn’t improve their BA in those situations. 6 for last 72.
BravesFAN
May 21st, 2012
10:46 pm
DS1 – I hear you but I’ve been to two of his starts and he couldn’t locate his fastball to save his life. He was very hittable and a lot of that is because he doesn’t have a good breaking ball so if he has trouble locating his fast ball he’s screwed. That’s the main reason Delgado is in Atlanta because he has 3 pitches that are major league ready and Teheran only as two. Regardless, Teheran has had several starts where he didn’t even make it out of the 3rd inning.
His fastball still has a lot of zip and a lot of life, his change-up is very good as well, but he can’t consistently throw the curve with any success and it’s no where near ready for the majors. His curve isn’t even a AAA pitch yet. He still has a lot of work to do. He hasn’t progressed the way Atlanta and the scouts had projected and many are wondering how much work he put in this off season…
Brava
May 21st, 2012
10:47 pm
Of course I do, VJ. Especially when you disagree with me.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
10:47 pm
I don’t think anyone has called Minor an ace…
ChattTownBrian (CTB)
May 21st, 2012
10:47 pm
JJ is gone I think. Meaning as a Brave. He can’t even get minor leguers out now. What a shame at how fast he fell. I know it’s baseball and he could rebound soon, but something is more wrong with him than just velocity and a hidden injury. Between the ears possibly.
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
10:47 pm
Heyward had a couple of chances to come through with two outs tonight, too bad he didn’t.
Bobby needs to get him on the phone and tell him to ambush a few of those first pitch strikes he’s watching pass by. It’s happening too often in the past several games.
DS1
May 21st, 2012
10:48 pm
If Delgado can get over his gransalamiitis, then Minor being the 5th starter is a bit less of an issue.
Brava
First, I love Medlen, and was hoping he would get a chance to start this year. But he’d need to get stretched out before he could be very helpful. Until then, you hurt your staff quite a bit.
I see the Braves patience as eventually paying off with Delgado and Minor.
And while Martinez, Venters and O’Flaherty still struggle, I really don’t see Kris being moved from the pen. And Gearrin might be the real deal, if he truly has figured out how to get out lefties. Not sure I want to count on him at this point.
Martinez, Venters and O’Flaherty are the key as to what happens with Medlen.
Lawton
May 21st, 2012
10:48 pm
Bat:
One of the two outs Heyward made with RISP was smoked right at Brandon Phillips.
Venice Jim
May 21st, 2012
10:48 pm
J-MAN – you need to relax – we won’t be in the cellar all year…
Darth Obama
May 21st, 2012
10:51 pm
DOB,
What is your opinion on calling up Teheran?
Brava
May 21st, 2012
10:51 pm
I just think it’s a huge waste of talent, Wayne. But, I seem to be in the minority. Oh well, not the first time.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
10:52 pm
CTB-
I think that JJ’s main (and maybe only) issue is mental- whether it is a fear that he will hurt his knee again or just mounting frustration over the way he’s pitching, but it’s something…I hope he figures it out because I do like him and want him to succeed, even if it’s not in Atlanta. I also agree that he probably won’t be back (or non tendered anyways…not sure if the Braves could resign him at a lesser price if they go that route…)
Brava
May 21st, 2012
10:53 pm
Besides, if Medlen is in the rotation and giving us quality starts, it takes pressure off the bullpen, anyhow.
Lawton
May 21st, 2012
10:53 pm
As for Minor, you can coach his mechanics, you can coach his approach and mindset. You can’t go out there and execute pitches for him. He has to do that himself. You can have great stuff and a great approach, but if you don’t execute pitches, you are going to get hit. It’s the one thing no one has control over other than Minor.
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
10:54 pm
Minor needs to think like Tom Glavine instead of Randy Johnson…….
Opponets are hitting .286 12 HR and 32 RBIs……Those would be MVP typ of numbers of here were an offensive player…………..He has had 9 Starts…..Its not like having 3 bad starts. I think its time to pull the plug
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
10:54 pm
Brava-
but short term, moving Meds to the rotation would put more pressure on the pen, which could have adverse effects later in the season…
DS1
May 21st, 2012
10:54 pm
Brava
I think Fredi and the org is deathly afraid of burning out the pen this year, hence one of the couple of decent reasons to be a bit more patient with Minor.
Minor might not ever be much, but he showed some promise early in the year. Hard to just dismiss that when you play under a restrictive budget. Kinda gotta dance with the one that brung ya sometimes.
Venice Jim
May 21st, 2012
10:55 pm
Brava – I would like to see how he does in the rotation, because I am a big fan – I just figure that this is the route taken for this year, and, unless things go much farther south, might as well stick to the plan for now…
BravesFAN
May 21st, 2012
10:56 pm
Don’t forget the Braves have the 2nd best record in the NL and are currently in 1st place in the NL East. I have a funny feeling the offense will regress some and the pitching will improve. EOF, Venters, and whoever are 5th starter will end up being will all start to pitch better in my honest opinion. If it’s not Minor that will improve it will be Medlen imo. It’s much easier and much cheaper to find a long reliever than it is to find a good starting pitcher. Medlen is a good pitcher period, bullpen, starting, whatever you need from him. Minor will continue to get every chance in the world to improve and if he doesn’t Wren and Fredi will move Medlen from the pen into the starting rotation. A starting pitcher is just more important than a long relief pitcher. I think the Braves have faith that if they move Medlen into the starting rotation they can find one of their many arms in the rotation to replace Medlen in the pen.
TheOnlyBravesFan
May 21st, 2012
10:57 pm
Besides, if Medlen is in the rotation and giving us quality starts, it takes pressure off the bullpen, anyhow
Only if the Braves score 6-8 runs in Kris’ starts. The dude would only be able to go 5-6 innings, he’s not stretched out enough to go 7-8 right now.
Bat Masterson
May 21st, 2012
10:57 pm
Lawton_
Yeah, I thought Heyward hit that ball pretty good but it was hard to tell on TV. I missed another of his PAs tonight when the broadcast froze up. Still in the past several games the first pitch he gets has often been the most hittable one he sees.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
10:58 pm
The dude would only be able to go 5-6 innings
At this stage, Kris can probably only go 3 to 4 innings, at least for a few starts…or go to AAA and get stretched there. Either way, the pen is losing a valuable member and putting more pressure on the ones that are there to pick up the slack
DS1
May 21st, 2012
10:58 pm
Only way Jurrjens stays a Brave beyond this year is if he figures things out in AAA, comes back and dominates. Otherwise, he gets non-tendered. And how many guys who get non tendered when they have lost their confidence/stuff, ever come back to the team.
He will feel jilted (not deserved, but that’s probably how he will feel).
Besides, if he has a problem with conditioning as has been alluded to, then we probably don’t want him back.
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
11:01 pm
I personally think we need another starter and another reliever to take some pressure off of Venters Medlen and Kimbrel………or MedVentabrel
DS1
May 21st, 2012
11:02 pm
Later Braves fans!
Bo Graves!!! Tomorrow is a new day!
Lawton
May 21st, 2012
11:02 pm
ok, folks, here’s the good news.
Minor only has to pitch once more before the Braves have some off days. On schedule, he would pitch on Saturday against the Nats (5/26). Five days later (the 31), the Braves are off so they could skip Minor there. They are also off on June 4th. Huddy gets pushed back a day and they can skip Minor again without missing a beat. They next time they would need him is June 9th. Maybe they have Minot make one more start then send to him to Gwinnett for a couple of weeks while they skip a couple of his starts.
J-MAN
May 21st, 2012
11:06 pm
Enough Rationalization poor proformances……..Minor hasnt performed…..send him down .
Next Man Up
JJ didnt performed and he gets sent down now its time for Minor to get sent down
ChattTownBrian (CTB)
May 21st, 2012
11:07 pm
Yeah JJ captured all of our hearts after getting relentlessly squeezed by that ump in new york a few years back and he battled to beat the Mets and that ump. He showed ice in his veins and big time maturaty.
What happend to our Jair?
Lawton
May 21st, 2012
11:08 pm
J-Man, I like your passion for the Braves.
Lawton
May 21st, 2012
11:09 pm
here’s my wrap on the game….
http://scoutseyeview.blogspot.com/2012/05/post-game-wrap-up-red-4-braves-1.html#!/2012/05/post-game-wrap-up-red-4-braves-1.html
richbrave
May 21st, 2012
11:10 pm
Ah, the old trifecta of defeat
1- it’s monday
2- Chipper’s hurt and not playing
3- Mike MINOR’s on the bump.
Yes indeedy. From here, it looked like MM couldn’t hit a bull in the azz with a bass fiddle. He was getting about every fifth pitch where he wanted it. The kid’s got to tighten up if he wants to be an effective ML pitcher. Well, that’s how I saw it anyway. With his style of pitching, he’s got to hit the black all the time to get outs. Most of his stuff is not that deceptive.
Brava
May 21st, 2012
11:11 pm
I just don’t agree. I think it’s wrong to coddle a guy who’s had five bad starts in a row. It sends the wrong message to the rest of the players. I guess I’m looking at the situation through the eyes of an old soldier who doesn’t believe the entire team should suffer for the shortcomings of one guy. Oh well.
TNScott
May 21st, 2012
11:12 pm
Brava- You’re right. The argument of hurting the bullpen doesn’t hold water. You can move Delgado into the bullpen or better call up Cory Gearrin. The fact of the matter is that nobody wants to remember what happened post-All Star break last year when JJ and Tommy struggled and could put only a handful of quality starts together. Does remember what happened to the bullpen in September? It collapsed from overuse. The Braves have one of the highest ERA’s in the majors and a large part of it is due to the 4th and 5th spots in the rotation and Durbin. It makes no sense to keep a starter, who is 6-2 as a starter, in essentially what amounts to a sixth-inning reliever role pitching an inning every 5 days or so.
ChattTownBrian (CTB)
May 21st, 2012
11:13 pm
Minor isn’t going anywhere, people. Not when JJ and Teheran aren’t showing a ton in the minors, especially JJ. I don’t know a lot about this Remond, but Minor still has the ups being more experienced big leaguer and a lefty.
count_schemula
May 21st, 2012
11:13 pm
Hey, had to take a phone call.
Any news on the Oswalt front?
Flatbill Kid
May 21st, 2012
11:14 pm
Anyone else read the article about Cody Ross’s fractured foot from ESPN? In that article, the braves reportedly had scouts watchin youkilis. DOB, can you shed some light here, or is simply the Braves dying their due diligence?
nolie
May 21st, 2012
11:14 pm
really Lawton?
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
11:16 pm
Flatbill Kid-
Obviously, not DOB, but I don’t see how Youkillis would fit on the Braves- they don’t need a first baseman, and would only need a spot starter at 3rd for when Chipper needs a break
nolie
May 21st, 2012
11:18 pm
Youh is another guy who seemingly caint stay healthy and it has taken a toll on his performance
David O'Brien
May 21st, 2012
11:18 pm
Minor on allowing 4 HRs at Cincy: “I don’t think it was the ballpark.”
GAME STORY:
http://blogs.ajc.com/atlanta-braves-blog/2012/05/21/minor-blasted-for-four-homers-in-braves-4-1-loss-to-reds/?cxntfid=blogs_atlanta_braves_blog
David O'Brien
May 21st, 2012
11:19 pm
QUOTAGE
http://blogs.ajc.com/atlanta-braves-blog/2012/05/21/braves-quotes-after-mondays-loss-to-reds/
Lawton
May 21st, 2012
11:21 pm
nolie, I guess the “really?” was for liking J-Man’s passion for the Braves. I totally understand your feeling there, lol. I was trying to throw the guy a bone. He can’t be all that bad, can he?
Lawton
May 21st, 2012
11:22 pm
just not sure where Youkilis would fit in with the Braves. If they really were scouting him, I don’t know why.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
11:22 pm
yup, it were, Lawton
Brava
May 21st, 2012
11:24 pm
Only if the Braves score 6-8 runs in Kris’ starts. The dude would only be able to go 5-6 innings, he’s not stretched out enough to go 7-8 right now
I know that, but it still is better than the 4 or 5 innings we are getting from Delgado and Minor most games they pitch. Plus, we’d likely not be trying to come from behind when the pen took over. Of course, this is pure speculation. I may be wrong, but I think the Braves are just putting off the inevitable here. We’ll see.
Brava
May 21st, 2012
11:26 pm
Minor on allowing 4 HRs at Cincy: “I don’t think it was the ballpark.”
Me, either.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
11:26 pm
Youk hasn’t done it a lot but he can play left on top of first and third. guy is making 25 mil over this year and next though, so I think its hard to take seriously
monty
May 21st, 2012
11:27 pm
Being 6′4″ tall and a lefty has it’s advantages. If he were Medlen’s height and a righty, he’d be back in AAA tomorrow.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
11:28 pm
can never say never, but the Braves have continued to express how much of an asset Meds has been where he is at. Would be a real 180 for then to start him
Brava
May 21st, 2012
11:30 pm
If Minor doesn’t work out, where do they go, nolie? Teheran hasn’t exactly been stellar at Gwinnett.
Lawton
May 21st, 2012
11:30 pm
right nolie, on Youks, but if Prado and Chipper are in the lineup, Youks sits. I don’t see Prado sitting much unless he is hurting, so that only leaves 3B for when Chipper is hurting. Chipper sits a couple of times a week, but thats not enough playing time for Youks.
Flatbill Kid
May 21st, 2012
11:31 pm
I agree with all of you about our lack of need for youk and his contract. Pitching is more of a glaring need.
monty
May 21st, 2012
11:32 pm
Hard to win games with only 2 hits, no matter who’s throwing.
DS1
May 21st, 2012
11:33 pm
nolie
If Martinez, Venters and O’Flaherty were pitching more consistently, I could maybe see Medlen getting stretched out. But those 3 have been very inconsistent.
Fortunately for the pen, Livan has been a real pleasant addition. “Gas Can” Durbin not so much.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
11:33 pm
Hard to win games with only 2 hits, no matter who’s throwing.
This
monty
May 21st, 2012
11:33 pm
slugging against Minor has to be out the roof.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
11:33 pm
unless it involved a trade for Prado? I was a huge Youk fan for years, but I just don’t see it for the Braves
Brava
May 21st, 2012
11:34 pm
I like Livan, Wayne. The way he struts around the mound just exudes confidence. I love watching him. He always makes me smile… Well, almost always.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
11:36 pm
No way the Braves trade Prado to make room for a banged up 33 year old hitting .219/.292/.344…who has played 22 games in the outfield in 9 years, and none since 2009 (when he played all of 2)
DS1
May 21st, 2012
11:36 pm
Brava
When I can convince myself to forget about 1997………………..
Lawton
May 21st, 2012
11:36 pm
Brava:
after one more start from Minor they could almost go with a 4-man rotation until the end of June. They have 5 days off between May 31 and June 25. Mayube Minor gets work at Gwinnett for a while and the Braves can make a decision who to bring up at that point. Maybe Minor irons himself out. Maybe Teheram steps up. Maybe the trade market heats up and they find a veteran to bring in.
David O'Brien
May 21st, 2012
11:37 pm
Braves are 0-7 with 12 runs scored on Mondays.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
11:38 pm
I don’t know what they’ll do Brava, which is why I said you can never say never. But I think they will run Minor out there for awhile yet
Lawton
May 21st, 2012
11:39 pm
*Maybe
*Teheran
you get the point. I can spell, but I just don’t type all that well.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
11:40 pm
going with a 4 man does nothing to solve the problem of getting a fifth man set for the rest of the year. I will be kinda surprised if they use that approach on a regular basis
nolie
May 21st, 2012
11:41 pm
everybody hates Mondays but the Braves are making it more intense so far AFAIC
Venice Jim
May 21st, 2012
11:41 pm
DS1 – Durbin has not been anywhere near as awful of late as you and your buddy T-h paint him…
DS1
May 21st, 2012
11:42 pm
Brava
I understand the concept of not wasting an effective starter in the pen. I hear you on that. But my point all along is that with the effort to get him stretched out, I can understand that the org instead is willing to give Delgado and Minor more chances than normal, considering that Teheran doesn’t seem to be quite ready now.
Only way I could see the Braves stretching out Medlen under the present circumstance is if they were able to get another pen arm that would be effective. Would that be Gearrin?
Lawton made a great post earlier outlining the fact that we could go without the 5th starter after the Saturday start for Minor. Might be that on Sunday they send Minor down to keep working and bring in Gearrin or one of the other minor league arms to test them out.
Or they could trade for a reliever.
Then I could see Medlen getting stretched out.
monty
May 21st, 2012
11:43 pm
MAybe the Monday thing could be in their head?
Venice Jim
May 21st, 2012
11:43 pm
In his last 5 games Durbin has walked 1 batter (erased stealing) and gotten everyone else out…
DS1
May 21st, 2012
11:45 pm
VJ
You might be right, but he’s only been unscored upon for 5 appearances, that have covered 2 and 2/3 innings.
Just not feeling much confidence in him just yet.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
11:46 pm
that might just mean that he is due to totally implode soon….or nor
DS1
May 21st, 2012
11:46 pm
Meant to say for his LAST 5 appearances.
DS1
May 21st, 2012
11:48 pm
Time to grab a late biscuit…………. later folks.
Venice Jim
May 21st, 2012
11:49 pm
Not completely confident, but he is not exactly the biggest cause for concern on the team…
nolie
May 21st, 2012
11:49 pm
nite oh sensitive one…
richbrave
May 21st, 2012
11:49 pm
DOWN ON THE FARM
GWINNETT
G-Men four hit by the RED WINGS and fall 1-10. The starting pitching was….well, the result was 6 earned of the 10 runs scored for ROCHESTER, and you know who started.
RHSP JAIR JURRGENS [L 2-2, 6.10 ERA] 4.1 IP, 11 H, 1 HR, 7 R, 6 ER, 1 BB, 4 SO. Phew!
RHRP BUDDY CARLISLE [1.68 ERA] 1.2 IP, 3 H, zeros, 1 SO. BUDDY comes on and extinguishes the blaze begun by JJ.
RHRP JAYE CHAPMAN [2.66 ERA] 1.0 IP, 2 H, 1 HR, 2 R/ER, 0 BB, 2 SO.
RHRP JASON RICE [3.38 ERA] 1.0 IP, 2 H, 1 R/ER, 1 BB, 0 SO.
1B ERNESTO MEJIA [.305 BA] 1-4, 1 R, 1 HR [7], 1 RBI [32].
LF CHRIS MARRERO [.245 BA] 1-3, 1 2B [7], 1 SO.
RF STEF GARTRELL [.258 BA] 1-3, 2 SO.
SS JOSH WILSON [.234 BA] 1-3, 1 SO.
MISSISSIPPI
Bandits roll and smoke TENNESSEE tonight 8-5.
Lead-off CF TODD CUNNINGHAM [.328 BA] 2-4, 2 RBI [11], 1 BB, 1 SO, 1 SB [6].
SS AL SIMMONS [.285 BA] 1-4, 1 R, 1 SO, 1 SAC.
2B PHIL GOSSELIN [.258 BA] 1-4, 1 R, 1 RBI [17]
3B JOE LEONARD [.255 BA] 1-2, 1 RBI [17], 2 BB.
RF CORY HARRILCHAK [.190 BA] 1-4
C MATT KENNELLY [.235 BA] 2-4
LF/3B ALDEN CARRITHERS [.286 BA] 2-4, 1 R
PH TIM SMITH [.500 BA] 1-1, 1 R
PH BARRETT KLEINKNECHT [.183 BA] 1-1, 1 R, 1 2B [6], 1 RBI [7].
RHSP DAVID HALE [4.35 ERA] 5.0 IP, 5 H, 1 HR, 4 R/ER, 3 BB, 3 SO. Not a good outing.
LHS/RP LUIS AVILAN [W 1-2, 2.59 ERA] 3.0 IP, 2 H, zeros, 2 BB, 2 SO. AVILAN appears to be a good LH long-reliever.
RHRP MARK LAMM [2.79 ERA] 1.0 IP, 2 H, 1 R/ER, 1 BB, 0 SO. MARK didn’t have it tonight.
LYNCHBURG
No game scheduled.
ROME
Postponed.
Brava
May 21st, 2012
11:50 pm
Lawton, yeah, I saw your earlier post. I also hope Minor can figure it out, of course. Just can’t say I have much confidence that will happen.
nolie
May 21st, 2012
11:50 pm
who ARE those people???
ChattTownBrian (CTB)
May 21st, 2012
11:53 pm
I’m a sensitive boy. Somebody is mean to me here and I’m soon in the corner of the room in a ball with my pink tissue wiping away tears of heartache. My emotions run deep.
Brava
May 21st, 2012
11:54 pm
Wayne, I agree with your assessment. Also, think Gearrin may be a good asset for the pen.
Brava
May 21st, 2012
11:55 pm
Durbin has pitched well lately, but I also lack confidence in him. I watch each pitch expecting a disaster to happen.
cabravesfan
May 21st, 2012
11:56 pm
I’m calling it a night…
Bye all!
nolie
May 21st, 2012
11:57 pm
nite cab, I still don’t like the ending of The Finder
Brava
May 21st, 2012
11:58 pm
Night, cab.
Brava
May 22nd, 2012
12:01 am
nolie, I think they will, too. He’s being given all the chances in the world to turn it around. I really hope he can.
nolie
May 22nd, 2012
12:04 am
me too Brava, I have never thought he was gonna be anything real special but I also never thought he was gonna have this kinda trouble. I do know that we remarked on his attitude/body language a couple of the games we saw him struggle in at Vandy
DS1
May 22nd, 2012
12:21 am
The Arby’s chicken salad sandwich is actually pretty good.
All we need from our 4th and 5th starters is to pitch .500 ball; keep us in games.
ChattTownBrian (CTB)
May 22nd, 2012
12:23 am
He looks scared on the mound.
Veer
May 22nd, 2012
1:06 am
Sounds funny now that Wren wanted a Grienke like return for Jurrjens.
Veer
May 22nd, 2012
1:10 am
So much for all the pitching depth bloggers and management claimed we have.
We are stuck with Minor and can’t find anyone to replace him?
If we were the Padres then I could see patience being the answer but we are in the toughest division in MLB history of past 10 years and we have to stick with Minor and an unproven Delgado?
Bobby H
May 22nd, 2012
1:32 am
Veer
Cheer up! Things could always be worse.
Think how bad it would be to be a blogger stuck on here with you.
David O'Brien
May 22nd, 2012
1:52 am
Can I see some more comparisions, DOB, about how Mike Minor will be the next Tom Glavine please? — Michael G.
Sure, but let’s give it a few days at least before we write more on that subject. But that for the suggestion.
Bob in Conyers, you’re up next. What’cha got to complain about with this first-place team? Fire away.
Ward
May 22nd, 2012
2:23 am
Hello everyone! Minor did make it to the 6th inning, and allowed only 4 runs this time. I think Braves just need to keep sending Minor out there,He will only get better.
Ward
May 22nd, 2012
2:24 am
Yeah, the Braves lost, but I think Minor will be a good one.
Ward
May 22nd, 2012
2:26 am
Minor reminds me of a rookie pitcher, and I think he will work out the kinks.
Ward
May 22nd, 2012
2:31 am
All in all Braves are playing way better than expected. Delgado is showing improvement, and Minor will only get better. Would rather have some young ones, rather than some high price pitcher for only two seasons at the most. Let the pitchers play baseball.
Ward
May 22nd, 2012
2:33 am
All, have a good one! There will be better days, and Peace my friends……..”Go!!!!!Braves!!!!!”
Andrew Bailey
May 22nd, 2012
2:45 am
When will Todd Redmond get a chance? What starter or reliever is comparable to him?
veer
May 22nd, 2012
3:52 am
Ya we should keep sending Minor out there like we sent Lowe out there in Aug Sep to ruin our chances at the playoffs. We are a contending team we don’t have time to be patient. If we were up by 10 games or playing in a weak division then ya I can see the point of sending Minor out there day in and out but now our lead is down to only half a game and not always will Beachy and Huddy come and rescue us and if they have a bad outing or two then we will find ourselves in a big losing streak.
I might be one of the most hated bloggers out here but atleast I have a win win mentality. I mean there is a limit to patience. We are contending for godsake. This is Derek Lowe all over again
veer
May 22nd, 2012
3:56 am
I can’t belive some of you here are proud of Minor’s 6IP 4ER performance. He gave homerun to a pitcher. He lost to a winless pitcher. He lost to a pitcher that was statistically worse than him and the worst among all qualifying pitchers in terms of ERA
Ward
May 22nd, 2012
4:06 am
Back for one post – Good thing your not the Braves manager………Braves are in 1st, so Veer keep whining…….Keep whining, because your only smart, as your post…….Peace Out……………….”Go!!!!!Braves!!!!!”
richbrave
May 22nd, 2012
6:26 am
FARM report page 11, 11:49 p.m.
Webster
May 22nd, 2012
6:55 am
If Minor/Delgado continue to struggle, could Todd Redmond be called up? It may be time to give him a chance.
jeffrey d
May 22nd, 2012
7:26 am
Next Monday can we write a blog about how awful the Braves are on Mondays? We need a blog curse to end this trend.
jeffrey d
May 22nd, 2012
7:29 am
Webster – I wouldn’t say Delgado is struggling too much. He’s given up walks, yeah, but that’s usually part of being a rookie.
D Posey
May 22nd, 2012
7:31 am
A few days ago, I made some observations here about Dan Uggla. I am glad to see some others agree with my assessment. However, one blogger, Lawton left a smarta## comment about me needing to see an optometrist if I do not see the value of Uggla. I truly like Uggla, but in doing some research on the stats for the past two years, Uggla has been a bust. He is rated as one of the most overpaid and over rated players in baseball. His WAR(new stat used to evaluate the worth of a player, is rated no better than an unnamed reserve player. I hope he gets it going, but I think his $13M sallary is for a whole season, not half of a season.
JasonInFL
May 22nd, 2012
7:34 am
Let’s win the next two and go for a series win on Thursday.
richbrave
May 22nd, 2012
7:37 am
jeffrey d
May 22nd, 2012
7:26 am
“……Next Monday can we write a blog about how awful the Braves are on Mondays? We need a blog curse to end this trend…….”
Start HUDSON or BEACHY next monday and that might happen.
jeffrey d
May 22nd, 2012
7:39 am
Let’s start Hudson and Beachy.
phil
May 22nd, 2012
7:51 am
The long collapse is underway….
CrαZy
May 22nd, 2012
8:04 am
I’m trying to have patience!!!
Jeff R
May 22nd, 2012
8:10 am
Fredi was right to leave Minor in after the homers. Makes perfect sense not to yank Minor, who did finish stronger. Can’t do this indefinitely, of course, but it’s still early and Minor is very capable of turning the corner.
(Yes, I know, some folk don’t want read it’s “still early.” But it facts are facts.)
Jeff R
May 22nd, 2012
8:14 am
“If Minor/Delgado continue to struggle, could Todd Redmond be called up? It may be time to give him a chance.
You know, the guy deserves a shot sometime, somewhere. Whether it’s happens in Atlanta or not is tough to say. Redmond’s been passed over regularly by management, but maybe they’d use him if Minor and/or Delgado really do crater.
Kat
May 22nd, 2012
8:24 am
11am today Gwinnett (Teheran pitching) is on MLB Network ….
Russell Bell
May 22nd, 2012
8:36 am
Minor wasn’t great last night, but not completely awful either (albeit, he’s lucky the 4 damn walks he gave up didn’t score). When you only score 1 run in support of your pitcher, more often than not, you are going to lose the game.
Gil in Mechanicsville
May 22nd, 2012
8:38 am
So, another poor outing by Chuck James Mike Minor last night. Only four home runs… only one thing for JoJo Reyes Mike Minor to do from my perspective, start pitching in bigger ballparks. Foe sure, the ones he is currently playing in have the fences way too close to home plate for him to be effective.
Funny, Livian and Kris did not have the same aura of failure surrounding them when the came in to pitch in relief.
I wonder if Jair has been giving Minor tips on the side on how to avoid suffering from whiplash as those rocket shots fly off the bats of major league hitters?
Yes, the Braves are still in first place but I would not feel too cocky about that. The Braves have shown some glaring holes when Chipper is out of the line up.
In fairness to the Braves hitters, Leake did his best imitation of Hudson last night allowing only two hits and getting mostly ground ball outs. Many of them to Joey Votto. Don’t be fooled by the high ERA. Leake looked very effective last night and has matured at a much faster rate than Kyle Davies Mike Minor.
David O'Brien
May 22nd, 2012
8:46 am
Next Monday can we write a blog about how awful the Braves are on Mondays? We need a blog curse to end this trend. — jeffrey d
That’s actually a good idea. Remind me on Sunday and I will. I want to test the true power of the blog curse/reverse-curse.
Gil in Mechanicsville
May 22nd, 2012
8:48 am
Yes richbrave, for sure, Monday is not a good time to go see the Braves play is it? At least the Braves are playing well enough to weather the storm so to speak when Minor toes the rubber but he is doing his best to play down to the standards set by Kershin two years ago.
To be fair, I thought the home plate umpire was squeezing the hell out of Minor last night but Mike wasn’t helping his case either being all over the place.
Jeff R
May 22nd, 2012
9:07 am
Yes, the Braves are still in first place but I would not feel too cocky about that. The Braves have shown some glaring holes when Chipper is out of the line up.
Chipper or no Chipper, it never pays to be cocky. I’m as happy as the next guy that the Braves are playing well, but there’s a lot of ball left, and I just don’t see the Phils dwelling in the cellar indefinitely. And Miami is looking better.
Random
May 22nd, 2012
9:11 am
veer (May 22nd, 2012 3:56 am): “I can’t belive some of you here are proud of Minor’s 6IP 4ER performance.”
Yes, I for one AM proud of Minor’s performance last night, especially when he was put back out there in the 5th inning after having given up the three two-out HRs (after getting a 1-2 count on the pitcher) in the 4th.
Following the last HR in the 4th, Minor retired the next seven batters he faced (2 by K), including two of the ones who had back-to-back jacked him (Leake and Cozart).
Now, Brava may consider that to be “coddling” — the Braves throwing Minor back into the fire, but she is bitter, twisted and vitriolic.
“He gave homerun to a pitcher.”
NL pitchers hit 27 HRs in 2011 — it’s not exactly unheard of. Or career-ending.
“He lost to a winless pitcher. He lost to a pitcher that was statistically worse than him and the worst among all qualifying pitchers in terms of ERA”
Minor was 0 for 2 against Leake, with 1 K.
The rest of the Braves (ie, the “hitters”) were 2 for 25 against Leake, with 5 Ks and 1 BB. Pretty damned stupid of you to single out Minor for HIS batting performance, don’t you think?
Couch Tater
May 22nd, 2012
9:13 am
Good morning, Dave!
Thanks…uh.. for takin’ my call…uh…can you hear me? Huh? Oh, O.K… lemmee turn my..uh.. radio down. Hold on…Can you hear me? Yeah, I’s wunderin’…uh..wha’chall think Wren..huh? Can you hold me over from the break? Ya cain’t? Well, durn. I’ve been listening to this station ever since The Song Remains The Same wuz #1 and Niekro had a fastball. You’d think I’d get a little more respect…
Harry Chapin – W*O*L*D **
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_1TUgWGuKM8&feature=related
**Now, SportsTalk!
Brian from SC
May 22nd, 2012
9:23 am
I don’t know if proud is the right word, but I do think Minor showed progress. He got ambushed with no runners on base, but didn’t let the game get away from him like he has in other starts recently. It could have been 10-1 instead of 4-1.
He showed a lot more fight than the Braves hitters did last night, that’s for sure. They weren’t winning with Beachy on the mound with that offensive performance.
DAP
May 22nd, 2012
9:23 am
on the bright side, they were all solo homers.
McFann :Ô: :Ô:
May 22nd, 2012
9:29 am
Jeff R it never pays to be cocky.
For me, it hardly ever even pays to be excited…Bronson Arroyo will prolly throw a perfect game tomorrow…
Mixxo
May 22nd, 2012
9:30 am
Another pi**-poor performance on a Monday. Imagine that. 0 – 8
How in the world are we in first-place?????
Oh……we haven’t played as many games in our division as the rest of the teams…..that’s why.
Random
May 22nd, 2012
9:32 am
veer (May 22nd, 2012 3:56 am): “He lost to a winless pitcher. He lost to a pitcher that was statistically worse than him and the worst among all qualifying pitchers in terms of ERA”
No, not at all.
Minor lost to the NL’s 10th ranked team in 2012 OPS.
On the other hand, the NL’s 3RD ranked team in OPS (guess who) DID lose to “a winless pitcher . . . that was statistically . . . the worst among all qualifying pitchers in terms of ERA.”
TheOnlyBravesFan
May 22nd, 2012
9:33 am
Last night the problem wasn’t as much Minor as it was the lack of offense. You can hardly ever win when you get 2 hits and score 1 run
Brian from SC
May 22nd, 2012
9:35 am
I agree, Only. Braves offense never gave Minor a chance anyway.
Lew
May 22nd, 2012
9:35 am
Uggla no more valuable than an unnamed reserve player? Yet more proof as to the total uslessness of WAR
raleighbravefan
May 22nd, 2012
9:36 am
No point in whining about the whiners. Some observations are called for, however.
Leake had been pretty bad, until his last start which showed improvement. ESPN announcers noted several times how much improved he was last night with pitch placement, showing slow motion replays of excellent pitches, and commenting on where he had been puting the ball in his earlier bad outins. We only got 1 run…bad….but Leake should be given a lot of the credit for that.
Proud of Minor for the way he came back out after the bad inning and shut them down for 2 innings afterward. Yes he was bad in the 4th, especially. Error, followed by mistake pitch to Leake obviously rattled him. basically 1 bad inning. He has got to learn how to deal with adversity. I thought he did in the 5th & 6th, but damage was done. Again, ESPN announcers said all young pitchers have to learn from experience how to get out of trouble, and noted that when pitchers are rushed to majors, that’s a lesson they don’t have a chance to learn (one reason Teheran is still down). Not time to give up on Minor long term, but at some point, you have to send him back down for “seasoning” if things don’t improve.
I believe if a move is made, they will make Levan the 5th starter, perhaps bringing up someon for the bullpen. Hopefully at some point Moylan becomes available and effective. Not looking real good for JJ, and I think they want Teheran to perfect secondary pitches some more.
Not much whining lately about Wren needlessly hanging on to too much pitching.
Brian from SC
May 22nd, 2012
9:38 am
I don’t know where D Posey is getting his numbers, but Uggla’s WAR is 1.2 on Fangraphs and 1.3 on baseball-reference. Both are good numbers, 3rd among Braves hitters behind Bourn and Prado.
Lew
May 22nd, 2012
9:40 am
The worst part of last night’s game was having top listen to the Cincinnati TV Dudes.
Fish Bisch
May 22nd, 2012
9:46 am
Minor is a tool. He looks like he doesn’t care getting lit up out there and he was hugging all over Leake before the game. His mind is not in the game and it looks like he could care less.
Jeff R
May 22nd, 2012
9:48 am
I believe if a move is made, they will make Levan the 5th starter, perhaps bringing up someon for the bullpen.
Certainly, the easiest, cheapest move the Braves could make and if it doesn’t work, Wren could go to whatever Plan B would be.
But Minor’s not done yet. We’ll see.
Random
May 22nd, 2012
9:48 am
veer (May 22nd, 2012 3:56 am): “I can’t belive some of you here are proud of Minor’s 6IP 4ER performance. He gave homerun to a pitcher.”
Of all 44 NL pitchers with at least 15 ABs, Leake’s OPS of .867 is second only to Strasburg’s 1.162.
PS: Okay, I know, I know — “And what was Mr Leake’s OPS BEFORE being introduced to Mr Minor’s wayward change-up?”
Well played, sir, well played.
(HOWEVER, only 3 pitchers (with 6) have more hits than Leake’s 5.)
Fish Bisch
May 22nd, 2012
9:51 am
Minor looks like he’s pitching injured.
David O'Brien
May 22nd, 2012
9:53 am
I think we can all agree, the Braves’ 0-7 record on Mondays isn’t as amazing as Reds fan Caleb Lloyd catching both of the 1st two homers in Cincy’s 4th inning. That is mind-boggling.
Jeff R
May 22nd, 2012
9:58 am
I think we can all agree, the Braves’ 0-7 record on Mondays isn’t as amazing as Reds fan Caleb Lloyd catching both of the 1st two homers in Cincy’s 4th inning. That is mind-boggling.
Perhaps more mind-boggling is that both homers were hit to virtually the same spot.
TennesseePaul
May 22nd, 2012
9:58 am
I watched the game last night and, while the four home runs were displeasing, the fact that Minor didn’t get blasted with the bases loaded, or with runners on, and continued to 6 innings is positive. Hopefully he builds off of this. He went deeper in the game and proved himself capable of getting out of a jam. Now he just needs to not plant a pitch in the hot zone.
raleighbravefan
May 22nd, 2012
9:59 am
DOB – Caleb Lloyd probably needs to buy a lottery ticket today.
Random
May 22nd, 2012
10:01 am
Fish Bisch (May 22nd, 2012 9:46 am): “Minor is a tool. [And you are a fool.] He looks like he doesn’t care getting lit up out there and he was hugging all over Leake before the game. His mind is not in the game and it looks like he could care less.”
Looks like he doesn’t care or could not care less?
Your and idiot.
How would you even know that his mind is not in the game?
Dumb-axe.
ncscoots
May 22nd, 2012
10:02 am
Kee-rist, I’m at the point where I wish the Braves actually would put Medlen in the rotation, just to silence the mob. Then, when he turns out to not be the Cy Young candidate that some here seem to think, we can put that notion to bed and get on with winning ballgames. Have mercy.
Bat Masterson
May 22nd, 2012
10:02 am
A few days ago, I made some observations here about Dan Uggla. I am glad to see some others agree with my assessment. However, one blogger, Lawton left a smarta## comment about me needing to see an optometrist if I do not see the value of Uggla _ D Posey
That was me, not Lawton, and in a different context. Perhaps after you get those new glasses a reading comprehension course is In order.
raleighbravefan
May 22nd, 2012
10:03 am
TNPaul – Good point Re Minor. He “righted the ship” when he easily could have folded. In the long run, this may be one of those “seminal moments”, which is a funny term itself.
David O'Brien
May 22nd, 2012
10:04 am
Minor looks like he’s pitching injured. — Fish Bisch
I dare say that since this blog became so active years ago, there has not been a single Braves pitcher who has struggled mightily for more than two weeks without multiple people in this forum suggesting — or saying adamantly — that he is injured. Not one pitcher.
David O'Brien
May 22nd, 2012
10:06 am
Minor is a tool. He looks like he doesn’t care getting lit up out there and he was hugging all over Leake before the game. His mind is not in the game and it looks like he could care less. — Fish Bisch
Wait. I thought he was hurt, Fish Bisch? Now it’s his mind that’s not in the game? Is it his mind not in the game or an injury? I’m confused now.
raleighbravefan
May 22nd, 2012
10:06 am
Random @10:01 – Ain’t it the truth. It never ceases to amaze me how people assume they know what someone is thinking, or their attitude, or their “heart” based on how they appear. It is about as risky as judging someone for how they grieve.
Ease
May 22nd, 2012
10:08 am
His mind is injured.
Murph
May 22nd, 2012
10:08 am
I’m sure this will be refuted by someone who is going to spend the time to actually look it up, but whatev… you can’t give up 4 HR and expect to win the game. Doesn’t matter if it’s to the pitcher or the cleanup hitter, 4 HR is 4 HR. He’s very fortunate that every single one was a solo shot.
That being said, giving up only 4 runs is an improvement for Minor… the team wasn’t out of the game. What I’m more upset about is the 2 freakin’ hits against a guy who has been one of the NL’s worst pitchers in 2012. But I can’t even be all that upset about that since the team has been an offensive powerhouse all season long and still sits in first place.
Momma said there’d be days like this, there’d be days like this my momma said…
raleighbravefan
May 22nd, 2012
10:08 am
DOB @10:06 –
raleighbravefan
May 22nd, 2012
10:11 am
Murph – “You can’t give up 4 home runs and expect to win” – mostly true, although, as you said, we were still in the game.
Also true that you can’t expect to win many games if you only score 1 run.
TheOnlyBravesFan
May 22nd, 2012
10:13 am
Fish Bisch is a tool.She seems like she doesn’t care that she sounds stupid and she was hugging all over the Reds before the game. Her mind is not in the Braves’ best interest and it looks like he could care less about them. — TOBF
Well, seriously, I don’t think any pitcher really goes out there trying to lose, and he looked better. Besides, even if Minor puts in a good start, 7 innings, 2ER, the Braves still don’t win. I don’t blame Minor for the loss, but rather Leake shutting down the Braves bats.
McFann :Ô: :Ô:
May 22nd, 2012
10:17 am
Maybe his mind’s not in the game because he’s thinking about his injury…
Lew
May 22nd, 2012
10:18 am
One of the only redeeming features of the Reds’ broadcast last night was the interview with the young man who caught back to back HR balls.
ncscoots
May 22nd, 2012
10:19 am
His mind is injured.
Who knows? I’m sure he’s trying to figure it out, though, and right damn quick.
Frankly, it just a feeble game all the way ’round, last night. Stuff happens. Forget about it and suit up, got another game to play.
Sopheee
May 22nd, 2012
10:19 am
Fish is injured? Who’s going to do the ownage posts?!
MikeInFL
May 22nd, 2012
10:20 am
Maybe he injured himself because he’s insane.
Lew
May 22nd, 2012
10:21 am
Nah – The insane usually injure someone else.
Sopheee
May 22nd, 2012
10:23 am
At least it’s Beachy day. That makes me happy.
CrαZy
May 22nd, 2012
10:23 am
Minor is a tool. He looks like he doesn’t care —–Fish Bisch
Clearly Minor doesn’t care…. Everyone can tell he doesn’t want to play good… No chance that he wants’ to stick in the majors for a long time. I’m sure he was more happy riding buses in the minors.
Tool : One who lacks the mental capacity to know he is being used. A fool. A cretin. Characterized by low intelligence and/or self-steem.
Seems to me you better fit the definition of a Tool!!
Waffle House or Bust
May 22nd, 2012
10:25 am
I say keep throwing the young guns out there. Look at 1990 and how it helped Glavine & Smoltz in 1991 (and their career).
FYI – Whoever came up with the annoying AJC bar at bottom of the page should be fired. Horrible idea!
Bat Masterson
May 22nd, 2012
10:28 am
Okay, I’m getting a new hard drive, upgrading the operating system to snow leopard, and increasing the ram on a five year old machine. $387.50
I was out some money for the back up and diagnostic cost. So I guess that’s better than buying a new machine.
Murph
May 22nd, 2012
10:29 am
As much as I’d like to sit around and complain about Minor, I’m not going to… not much to be said about that guy that hasn’t already been said. He’ll either figure it out and right the ship or he won’t and he’ll likely be replaced by Teheran at some point this season. I’ll still take 4 really good pitchers plus 1 Minor any day of the week.
Minor doesn’t know how fortunate he is to have Beachy follow him in the rotation. Instead of reporters and fans lamenting Minor’s poor performance for days and days they have a much better story to write about the next evening as Beachy dominates yet again.
Lew
May 22nd, 2012
10:30 am
The Meebo Bar – the true reason for Minor’s struggles.
Hillbilly
May 22nd, 2012
10:30 am
That’s actually a good idea. Remind me on Sunday and I will. I want to test the true power of the blog curse/reverse-curse.
DOB, Whatever you do, just don’t mention the undefeated Friday record.
Murph
May 22nd, 2012
10:31 am
Almost forgot… got my tickets to go watch the Manny Ramirez show tomorrow night here in Round Rock, TX. Can’t decide if I’m going to boo him or just sit back and laugh at him… maybe a little of both.
TennesseePaul
May 22nd, 2012
10:32 am
Then, when he turns out to not be the Cy Young candidate that some here seem to think, we can put that notion to bed and get on with winning ballgames. Have mercy.
Your statements seem to imply that the team would need Medlen to be Cy worthy in order to win ballgames. Or, even that a team can only when ballgames when a pitcher is Cy worthy. He may not win the Cy, but he could very well win many games. And with that, the notion of necessary Cy winnings may be laid to rest as the team wins ballgames. That’s the difference.
raleighbravefan
May 22nd, 2012
10:33 am
Waffle – I agree that the pitchers need to learn how to pitch under adversity…but there is a difference in learning “on the job” with a last place team vs a first place team. There is not an easy answer here.
FYI – The bar at the bottom is annoying, but you can easily hide it.
JoeFan
May 22nd, 2012
10:34 am
Ever game is important, see 2011 results. The Braves can’t keep sending a pitcher out there who consistently doesn’t give the team a reasonable chance to win, see Lowe of 2011. If there is a better pitcher in their system or available through trade than Minor, then the Braves owe it to themselves and their fans to get him into the rotation. Otherwise, run Minor out there every 5th day and hope he matures quickly.
Murph
May 22nd, 2012
10:34 am
new hard drive, upgrading the operating system to snow leopard, and increasing the ram on a five year old machine. $387.50
Ouch! Man, as much as I’m a Mac guy and would never do the Nelson “HA HA” from the Simpson’s, you could get an entirely new Windows laptop for that price.
Bat Masterson
May 22nd, 2012
10:35 am
Instead of reporters and fans lamenting Minor’s poor performance for days and days they have a much better story to write about the next evening as Beachy dominates yet again.
I hope the baseball gods are not in a let’s give these guys a lesson in humility mood.
TennesseePaul
May 22nd, 2012
10:35 am
The Meebo Bar – the true reason for Minor’s struggles
Blocking that bar with the adblock add-on was the slickest, most rewarding browser enhancement ever. I’ve even gotten it to block the ad-which-magically-covers-your-screen-while-you-attempt-to-read-an-article.
Tomahawkin
May 22nd, 2012
10:35 am
Murph
“As much as I’d like to sit around and complain about Minor, I’m not going to… not much to be said about that guy that hasn’t already been said. ”
Co-Sign on that…
I’d rather have the biggest issue on the team be a 2nd year starter as opposed to a year ago when the whole offense couldn’t RISP and people were callinf for a coaches to get Ol Yellered…And a year ago Ugg Couldn’t hit water if he fell out of a boat after 40 games. I’d gladly take the issues of 3 pitchers on a team as opposed to the whole team issues a year ago that was costing us games
I will take our performance this year after 40 some odd games as opposed to last year in a heartbeat
Ease
May 22nd, 2012
10:37 am
I kilt the Meebo bar…
Arkansas Transplant
May 22nd, 2012
10:37 am
I think it’s probably time to seriously look at Oswalt.
Tomahawkin
May 22nd, 2012
10:38 am
Not Making excuses here, but Minor would’ve lost even if he threw 6 shutout innings when the offense can only get 2 hits at The Great American Smallpark…
With that said its Do or Die for Minor in his next start
varoadrunner
May 22nd, 2012
10:38 am
Minor could be a very good pitcher but he has mechanical problem as well as potential “head” issues.
I still ask, why not move Medlin into a starter’s role? Bring Bring up the rookie and give him a chance. At times last night, Minor looked as if he was throwing batting practice. Only five hits, but he was hit very hard from the very beginning. Keep him, do not trade him…but give him a break from the “bigs”.
raleighbravefan
May 22nd, 2012
10:38 am
TNPaul – My personal unworthy opinion is that Medlen is more valuable in his current role, especially with Venters struggling, than he would be as a 5th starter. That’s not even to mention that he would have to be stretched out to become a starter.
Tomahawkin
May 22nd, 2012
10:39 am
Why are so Many on here Lusting for The Wizard (Oswalt) when we have younger/cheaper options both in the pen (Meds) and down in the farm???
SMH
Oswalt is Overpriced Damaged Goods
Bat Masterson
May 22nd, 2012
10:40 am
Yeah, I guess I could, but I have some suck cost involved, too.
If I’m gonna lament recent decisions, I think I’ll go with, I should have picked up a pretty good pc laptop instead of the iPad.
Lew
May 22nd, 2012
10:40 am
Ease – The Blog Davy Crockett – He killed the Meedbo B’ar
Jeff R
May 22nd, 2012
10:42 am
How many commenters who think that Minor and Delgado have the potential to be capable major league starting pitchers have ever said these guys are future Cy Young winners or Hall of Famers?
It’s absurd that some folk keep defaulting to that point (a straw man, if there ever was one).
I certainly think that most of the regular commenters on this blog have made no such claims.
Geez, there is a middle ground, after all.
ncbravesfan90
May 22nd, 2012
10:44 am
Medlin is staying in the pen because he is a key setup guy that we despeartely need out there. And I’m not sure what options we have in the minors that you speak of. Our starting pitching depth that was was very deep has all of a sudden become non-existent.
raleighbravefan
May 22nd, 2012
10:46 am
Arkansas – You are assuming 2 things…1) Oswalt would be healthy AND effective, and 2) the Braves have the money to spend on him vs other needs. Are the 4th & 5th starters really that big of a problem, especially when we have won most of the games they have started?
I don’t trust either assumption to necessarily be true.
Bat Masterson
May 22nd, 2012
10:47 am
Ha, “suck cost” pretty much the same as sunk cost, I suppose.
ncbravesfan90
May 22nd, 2012
10:49 am
“Are the 4th & 5th starters really that big of a problem, especially when we have won most of the games they have started?”
The 4th starter, not that much of a problem and has actually pitched pretty well. The 5th starter, definitely a problem and needs to be addressed.
CrαZy
May 22nd, 2012
10:49 am
I think it’s probably time to seriously look at Oswalt.
If this was a video game or a fantasy baseball team I’d agree!!
Roman Gal
May 22nd, 2012
10:50 am
Geez, there is a middle ground, after all.
Say whaa?
cricket
May 22nd, 2012
10:50 am
since we are going to lose every monday, why not rest the regulars on mondays instead of sundays and play with a team of full on scrubs?
Hillbilly
May 22nd, 2012
10:51 am
Ease – The Blog Davy Crockett – He killed the Meedbo B’ar
Or we could go with The Blog Hatchet Jack:
“I, Ease, being of sound mind and broke legs hereby leave this mouse to whoever may find it. Lord hope it be a Braves Fan. Anyway, it is a good mouse and kilt the Meebo Bar that kilt me.”
Naaaah, we can’t do that. The “sound mind” thing doesn’t work. Davy Crockett it is.
CrαZy
May 22nd, 2012
10:51 am
I still ask, why not move Medlin into a starter’s role?
This has only been answered a billion times since the last Minor start!! He is coming off TJ surgery and they are going to limit his innings this season. PLUS he’s one of our best relief pitchers right now.
raleighbravefan
May 22nd, 2012
10:52 am
Lew – When he was only 3?
Arkansas Transplant
May 22nd, 2012
10:52 am
raleighbravefan, I stated time to “look” at Oswalt. I don’t know what he has left or what condition he’s in health wise but I do know that we are serious contenders this year and I think if we can bring in someone that’s been as solid as Oswalt has been his whole career, then I think we should at least look at the possibility. Well, as far as 4th and 5th starters being problems.. I’d say, yes. I’d look to shore up at least one of those spots, it does nothing to continue to run them out there knowing how they are taxing our bullpen. That can be a very large problem come September. And money… well, that’s negotiable.
cricket
May 22nd, 2012
10:52 am
Geez, there is a middle ground, after all.
i think a rotation of 5 no. 3s will be pretty strong
Arkansas Transplant
May 22nd, 2012
10:53 am
Not to mention, more leadership isn’t a bad thing for the young guys.
CrαZy
May 22nd, 2012
10:54 am
since we are going to lose every monday, why not rest the regulars on mondays instead of sundays and play with a team of full on scrubs?
I agree… I think this is a wonderful idea!! Play the entire bench on Monday’s… hell I’d even try to pitch Minor on as many Mondays as possible just so he’ll have a built in excuse for losing.
cricket
May 22nd, 2012
10:54 am
And money… well, that’s negotiable.
tough negotiation – if phillies and red sox are competition
Hugo Z Hackenbush
May 22nd, 2012
10:55 am
A hearty thank you to Kat for the head-up about the Gwinnett telecast coming on in six minutes. A bonus for Braves fans!
Arkansas Transplant
May 22nd, 2012
10:56 am
cricket, granted.. but you’ll never know sitting on the sidelines.
cricket
May 22nd, 2012
10:56 am
ok, then, it is decided. mondays belong to scrubs, minor and durbin to finish off
Mixxo
May 22nd, 2012
10:59 am
“since we are going to lose every monday, why not rest the regulars on mondays instead of sundays and play with a team of full on scrubs?”
Brilliant ideer!!
Lew
May 22nd, 2012
10:59 am
Medlen is definitely a pitcher we need on our staff – however……
As a starter vs. (reliever) – 4.31 ERa (3.00), 102 IP (99 IP), WHIP 1.27 (1.20), K/9 – 7.1 (8.1), HR – 14 in 102 IP (4 in 99 IP).
The last time Medlen pitched more than 3 innings in a game – July 30, 2010
He just is not as good a starter as a reliever. His ERA is higher. His WHIP is higher. He strikes out a batter less per nine as a starter. He gives up many more HR starting that relieving.
He’s being used exactly as he has his entire career when you compare starts to relief appearnaces both in the minors and the bigs.
Bottom line – He’s a valuable asset and a great addition (versatile) to the team and the bullpen. However, as a ster, he’s considerably less effective and is – quite honestly – average, while as a reliever he’s very good.
Bat Masterson
May 22nd, 2012
10:59 am
I was listening to the ESPN guys, a little bit anyway, talking about Heyward needing to make adjustments on the inside pitch last night. Not much context there if you ask me.
The adjustment I wonder about him making is,when is gonna quit letting pitchers get a head of him in the count by watching a first pitch strike in his wheelhouse go by. How about ambushing a few of those, please.
monty
May 22nd, 2012
11:00 am
Delgado isn’t there yet(no one really expected him to), and Minor isn’t there yet(many believed he was ready). So, we are a team with 3 reliable SP’s. I believe we could have been a team with 4 reliable SP’s if FG had realized Medlen’s value there and stretched him out in ST with that goal. Has he been very good in the pen? Sure he has. Has the lowest WHIP in the pen and 2nd lowest on the team behind Beachy. Medlen (I believe) would succeed in whatever role you place him. But it sure would have been nice to have 4 reliable SP’s. Now the argument is Medlen is saving O’Ventbrel for later in the year, maybe, maybe not, we’ll see. But the bigger question come September may be how many games did we lose and never really have a decent shot at winning because we only had 3 starters we could reasonably count on?
Juan
May 22nd, 2012
11:00 am
RHRP BUDDY CARLISLE [1.68 ERA] 1.2 IP, 3 H, zeros, 1 SO
Here the secret weapon that thr Braves need…..send minor down…bring Buddy
Hugo Z Hackenbush
May 22nd, 2012
11:02 am
Looks like about 27 fans in the stands at Rochester….I guess that’s what an 11 a.m. start will do for you…
DAP
May 22nd, 2012
11:02 am
“Are the 4th & 5th starters really that big of a problem, especially when we have won most of the games they have started?
if the 5th starter is minor, isnt the 4th starter tim hudson? which would make beachy the #1 starter…thats the way they are ordered, anyways. no, i think the #4 stater is doing fine.
Lew
May 22nd, 2012
11:02 am
raleighbraves – Yep, he was a youngun when he kilt it.
CrαZy
May 22nd, 2012
11:03 am
Monday Lineup for remander of the season:
1. Bourn
2. Wilson
3. Prado
4. Uggla
5. Hinski
6. Ross
7. Diaz
8. Fransisco
9. Minor / Hernandez / Durbin
CrαZy
May 22nd, 2012
11:04 am
BUDDY CARLISLE isn’t a starting pitcher anymore!
monty
May 22nd, 2012
11:04 am
“However, as a ster, he’s considerably less effective and is – quite honestly – average,”
I’d take average right now. I think right now we have 2 starters below avg.
ncscoots
May 22nd, 2012
11:05 am
because we only had 3 starters we could reasonably count on?
Having “only” three good starters drops the Braves into the end of a very large pool. Most teams are happy with three.
Win two out of three with the top three starters, play break-even with the two back-end starters. That will get a team 90+ wins and (usually) a playoff spot.
Mixxo
May 22nd, 2012
11:06 am
82-80
Anyway you shake, rattle & roll it.
raleighbravefan
May 22nd, 2012
11:06 am
AT – 1- The bullpen has hardly been overtaxed this year…or at least, no individual in the bullpen has been.
2 – Levan has more experience than Oswalt, and may be as effective…and a lot cheaper. Durbin also offers experience, and hasn’t been nearly as bad as some here believe.
Lew
May 22nd, 2012
11:06 am
Crazy – No, he’s been relieving. However, he IS a starter, has started much more recently than Medlen and could be stretched out quickly enough and with much less loss of what is now working than having Medlen go to AAA to stretch out.
CrαZy
May 22nd, 2012
11:06 am
Cory Gearrin is someone I could see in ATL in the near future… dude has been great this year.
David O'Brien
May 22nd, 2012
11:07 am
Good stats at 10:59, Lew.
And by the way, been listening to that Coachella CD on this trip, the one you got at Record Store Day. Excellent. Thanks.
Juan
May 22nd, 2012
11:07 am
CrαZy …my post was Crazy like your 11:03 post
Bat Masterson
May 22nd, 2012
11:08 am
Hillbilly _
Nice Jeremiah Johnson bit.
CrαZy
May 22nd, 2012
11:09 am
Lew… why would we want to do that he’s pitching better out of the pen than he ever did as a SP. Plus if they want to go the route of bringing up a AAAA pitcher then Redmond fits that role.
Juan
May 22nd, 2012
11:09 am
The Braves can convert Venters to be a stater?….to be discuss…
Other team start converting reliever ro be a starter
CrαZy
May 22nd, 2012
11:10 am
CrαZy …my post was Crazy like your 11:03 post
OH!! But I was serious!!
Hugo Z Hackenbush
May 22nd, 2012
11:11 am
Braves with two bunt base hits in a row…
raleighbravefan
May 22nd, 2012
11:12 am
Mixxo – I’ll bet a nickle right now that we win more than 82 games…any way you shake, rattle or roll it. And I’m not even a betting man.
raleighbravefan
May 22nd, 2012
11:12 am
Mixxo – I’ll bet a nickle right now that we win more than 82 games…any way you shake, rattle or roll it. And I’m not even a betting man.
Hugo Z Hackenbush
May 22nd, 2012
11:12 am
Bases loaded for Braves.
Hugo Z Hackenbush
May 22nd, 2012
11:14 am
Minor point Lew, but Medlen pitched 4.1 innings on Aug. 4 of that year…
Murph
May 22nd, 2012
11:15 am
If I’m gonna lament recent decisions, I think I’ll go with, I should have picked up a pretty good pc laptop instead of the iPad.
I’m 100% with you on that. I gave my iPad to my wife, who has since given it to our 5 year old.
The device is actually pretty amazing for kids. Both of my girls play games, practice reading/spelling, etc on the iPad. I personally found it to be pretty useless.
The one app on the iPad that I love is Sketchbook Pro. I bought one of those stylus pens and sometimes take the iPad with me when I feel like doing some drawing.
Lew
May 22nd, 2012
11:16 am
Crazy – Why would you want to do that with Medlen – he’s pitching better out of the pen than as a starting pitcher?
Carlyle is a starter – Medlen is not. Medlen has not gone more than 3 IP in two years. Carlyle has pitched two to three innings in seven of nine appearances so far this season. Medlen would have to,be moved to AAA to stretch out. Carlyle is already at AAA and could be stretched out without affecting the current bullpen set up. Medlen couldn’t.
Hugo Z Hackenbush
May 22nd, 2012
11:16 am
Gwinnett gives Delgado a 2-0 lead…
Random
May 22nd, 2012
11:17 am
JoeFan (May 22nd, 2012 10:34 am): ” The Braves can’t keep sending a pitcher out there who consistently doesn’t give the team a reasonable chance to win, see Lowe of 2011.”
Minor gave the Braves a better chance to win last night than they gave him.
While Minor gave up 4 runs in 6 innings, the Braves traded the 21 outs for which Minor was pitcher of record for 2 hits, 1 walk and 1 run.
A meager return for 21 outs by anyone’s standards.
DAP
May 22nd, 2012
11:17 am
juan The Braves can convert Venters to be a stater?
venters was a starter for alot of his minor league career and didnt do so hot. he is a guy with nasty stuff, some of the best stuff in the majors, id say. but we have seen his tendency to lose his mechanics from time to time, and pitching several innings at once might lead to issues repeating his delivery over a full game.
CrαZy
May 22nd, 2012
11:17 am
Terdo with a .194 AVG for the year!!
Shaun
May 22nd, 2012
11:17 am
Yeah, Lew. I think in scouting terms Medlen is probably a number four or a lower-end number three, especially right now, considering the Braves probably wouldn’t let him (and it probably wouldn’t be wise to let him) go all that deep in to games. I think the role of a reliever who could go 2-3 innings, if he had to, is appropriate.
Hugo Z Hackenbush
May 22nd, 2012
11:17 am
Wow, Braves laying down bunts, stealing bases, creating havoc in first inning. This is exciting ball…
Lew
May 22nd, 2012
11:17 am
Hugo – Nonetheless, it’s still been the better part of two years and doesn’t change the equation..
raleighbravefan
May 22nd, 2012
11:19 am
Don’t know why the double post…but I guess I just bet a dime.
Hugo Z Hackenbush
May 22nd, 2012
11:20 am
I know, but I’m a stickler for accuracy.
Mixxo
May 22nd, 2012
11:20 am
raleighbravefan…
I’m not a betting man either but, I’ll take that nickel bet.
This team cannot travel well at all. Look at our record on the first game of a series after ANY trip….home or road. I don’t know what it is but, I’m sure it’s horrible. This is the sign of a weak team. Sure, sure…..you can blame it on the obesity of this team, poor conditioning, etc.
Whatever the reason, it’s a pattern that goes back years. No “want” in this bunch.
Shaun
May 22nd, 2012
11:20 am
DAP, also I don’t think Venters has enough command of enough pitches to be a starter. He’s best in a role where he doesn’t have to be too fine with his pitches or his delivery, as you pointed out.
Murph
May 22nd, 2012
11:21 am
CF TODD CUNNINGHAM [.328 BA] 2-4, 2 RBI [11], 1 BB, 1 SO, 1 SB [6]
What’s Cunningham’s story? Guy seems to be putting together a pretty decent season.
Lew
May 22nd, 2012
11:21 am
Shaun – And it is exatly how they’ve utilized him since he’s been in the organization. He’s great to have if you need a spot starter, but is best suited to a multi inning relief role – and he’s been pretty successful in that role – not nearly as much as a starter. People just end to look at the fact that the Braves won many of the games he started, even though he wasn’t involved in the decision.
In other words, he was able to keep us in games. That alone is a gfood thing, but hardly the reason to put him in a role where he succeeds less than the role he already has.
CrαZy
May 22nd, 2012
11:22 am
Lew I never said anything about making Meds a SP!!!!!!! Did you take your meds this morning???
I said Med’s is one of our best relief pitchers this year earlier but never mentioned making him start this year. Buddy will probably start later this year when someone gets hurt or called up. I doubt Buddy makes any starts this year above AAA!!
DS1
May 22nd, 2012
11:25 am
At least the Cincy fans didn’t go shooting up the town after beating us last night.
Now that’s a bright spot isn’t it?
Frankie Wren
May 22nd, 2012
11:27 am
cricket
May 22nd, 2012
10:50 am
since we are going to lose every monday, why not rest the regulars on mondays instead of sundays and play with a team of full on scrubs
That’s pretty funny
DS1
May 22nd, 2012
11:27 am