At 40, Chipper excels as hitter and (unofficial) coach
MIAMI – He’s on pace to play 99 of the Braves’ 162 games, or about 25 fewer than Chipper Jones had in mind when he reported to spring training. But other than being out more than he planned for chronic knee problems and surgical procedures that twice put him on the disabled list, the third baseman has flourished in his final season, surpassing the expectations of most observers.
“It doesn’t surprise me,” Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez said. “I thought he was going to have a productive year, if we could keep him on the field and keep him kind of fresh. And so far we’ve been able to do that, because he’s been pretty honest with us about how his body feels.”
Oh, come on. Having a productive year is one thing. Being the team leader in batting average (.313), on-base percentage (.386) and slugging percentage (.495) is quite another.
Did we mention Jones is 40?
And while he’s delivered key hits on creaky knees, Jones has also fully embraced the elder statesman role that shifted ever increasingly to him when others from Atlanta’s division-title run either retired or went away. Now he’s the man. Teammates call him “Battle Axe” and wear T-shirts with that nickname on the front and Jones’ career achievements on the back.
He’s an unofficial third hitting coach with Greg Walker and his assistant Scott Fletcher, in their first year with the Braves.
“He’s part of me and Fletch’s team,” said Walker, who was hired as Braves hitting coach after 8-1/2 seasons in that role with the Chicago White Sox. “We bounce ideas off him. We encourage him to get involved if he sees something. But he also has to take care of himself because he’s still a big part of this offense.”
• Fact: When leading off innings Jones is 22-for-50 (.440) with two homers and a .500 OBP that’s tied with Matt Kemp for third-best in the majors.
The tone for Jones’ relationship with Walker and Fletcher was set in January, when they worked with Jason Heyward in hitting sessions at Turner Field. Where some first-year coaches might have felt threatened by Jones’ presence and clout in the clubhouse, Walker and Fletcher sought his advice and tapped his knowledge.
“I have a rapport with the guys who were here already, and I think we’d be doing ourselves a disservice if we didn’t relay to Fletch and Walk what we’ve worked on,” Jones said. “Because the last thing I want to do is contradict something they’re saying, and I’m sure vice-versa. Just as long as we’re on the same page and communication is open and we’re all kind of throwing our two cents in, it’s worked out great.
“I’ve always thought that the more eyes you can have a on a guy who’s struggling, the more apt you are to figure it out, talking amongst yourselves, throwing things around, seeing if it sticks. It’s been great so far….
“The good thing is that they’re open to it. They’re not closed-minded guys that say everybody has to hit their way. It started with bringing Jason in and showing him the mechanics that he was doing correctly when he first got to the big leagues, and how he got away from it. Now he’s gotten back to those mechanics and he’s having himself a good year….
“We’ve had some [previous coaches] who’ve been a little insecure and feel like you might be stepping on their toes somewhat. But as one of the leaders on this club, it’s my job to talk the game. It’s my job to offer advice when I see the need. And that’s not going to change.”
• Fact: Jones has 25 walks and 25 strikeouts in 214 at-bats, the only Brave with as many walks as strikeouts this season. If he keeps it up, it would be his 12th season with at least as many walks as strikeouts.
Walker said he doesn’t do much coaching when it comes to Jones. If the switch-hitter seeks feedback, they’re there.
“We just ask him what he needs,” Walker said. “He asks some questions, very seldom though. He and Fletch talk when he’s not playing and he’s getting ready for a pinch-hit [appearance]…. He’s a really, really intelligent hitter, and that’s an understatement. I think everybody in baseball knows that. He knows his swing. There’s just nothing to do. It’s like when I went to [Chicago], Frank Thomas was a veteran that already knew his game, and there was nothing to do.”
If Jones is talking to Walker and Fletcher about a hitter, it’s almost always about someone other than himself.
“I’ve always used veteran players, guys that know their game and just go about their business,” he said. “I’ve always encouraged them for their input, to help younger players. Chipper’s done a really good job of it. He’s had some helpful things to say during games, before games, he’s been very helpful with me and Fletch getting comfortable.”
• Fact: Jones has hit .318 with an .874 OPS against left-handers this season, and .310 with an .886 OPS against right-handers. He’s hit in seven spots in the order and had more than 10 at-bats in each spot from second through sixth. Batting sixth, he’s 30-for-93 (.323) with four homers. Batting cleanup, he’s 24-for-68 (.353) with 10 RBIs and an .890 OPS.
Jones recently broke the career RBI record for players whose primary position was third base. The record belonged to George Brett, who played his final season at age 40 and hit .266 with a .746 OPS. Brett finished with one more RBI than legendary third baseman Mike Schmidt, who played his final season at age 39 and hit .203 with a .668 OPS.
Ironman Cal Ripken Jr., who switched from shortstop to third late in his career, played his final season at age 40 and hit .239 with a .637 OPS.
To repeat, Jones is hitting .313 with a .881 OPS.
If he maintains anything close to that pace he will finish with an average over .275 for the first time since winning the National League batting title with a career-best .364 in 2006. He has a team-best .881 on-base-plus-slugging percentage. He will likely finish with his first OPS above .818 since posting three consecutive plus-1.000 marks from 2006 through 2008.
• Fact: Creaky legs and knees have contributed to his .216 average and .758 OPS in 13 day games. In night games he’s hit .333 — 22 points better than any other Brave — with seven homers, 34 RBIs (tied for second on the team) and a .907 OPS in 47 games. His .508 slugging percentage in night games is 42 points above the team’s next-best, Heyward’s .466.
Jones says he could see himself becoming a hitting coach someday. Walker said he would make a good one.
“No doubt,” Walker said. “I think he’d be a good manager or coach, whichever one he decided to do. No doubt.”
He paused and smiled before adding, “I don’t know that I like him so much that I’d encourage him to be a hitting coach.”
Jones reiterated Wednesday that hitting coach could be in his future.
“I don’t want to manage,” he said. “Hitting is my craft, and I take it very seriously. I enjoy it. It’s just one part of the game that I think about constantly. Even when guys are struggling, I’m looking to see what nugget of information I can give them that might help them out. I wouldn’t necessarily teach my philosophy, but I know what makes people successful at the plate, because I’ve watched and I’ve learned. I know what makes their swing tick, and that’s something that hitting coaches are really good at. I think I’d be a lot better hitting coach than I would a manager.”
Tell us what you think about the site
Customer Care »
Vacation stops, manage subscriptions and more
AJC Services
Sections
Other Editions
Visitor Agreement | Privacy Statement
© 2013 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
198 comments Add your comment
Dreading the trade deadline
July 26th, 2012
3:26 pm
From 4th to 1st — go Braves!
urban redneck
July 26th, 2012
3:33 pm
i would love to have larry as a hitting coach. plus the braves are always out of the playoffs by the beginning of deer season, so everybody wins.
Ryan Dempster
July 26th, 2012
3:33 pm
I’m not coming unless you start working with Dan Uggla
Wlizardo
July 26th, 2012
3:40 pm
And thats chipper…i hope he decides to become Hitting coach in the near future… FOR the rbaves ofc…
Chris_H
July 26th, 2012
3:40 pm
Chipper as hitting coach – it’s a no-brainer when he wants the job
Yogi Berra
July 26th, 2012
3:42 pm
Very good report DOB..Would love to see Chipper as Mgr one day. Love Walkers remarks and respect he has for Battle Axe.
Both need to talk with Uggla.. Thanks again DOB good inside report.
sidslidkid
July 26th, 2012
3:42 pm
There’s just something about the way DOB writes about Chipper that just works. Their styles just gel… gonna miss these reads.
Burman Fisher
July 26th, 2012
3:42 pm
Uggla seems beyond help!
PMC
July 26th, 2012
3:43 pm
While I’m not suprised, afterall he’s a hall of famer in waiting and one of the best switch hitters of all time, It’s a little if not very disapointing that the Braves have not done a good enough job in acquisitions that a 40 year old would be in those lofty positions on the stat sheet.
Ken Stallings
July 26th, 2012
3:45 pm
The work the current hitting coach staff (Chipper included) has done with Jason Heyward has alone earned every penny of their pay. Heyward is experiencing an epiphany that frankly I did not expect and would not dared have hoped for. Heyward and Freeman are both enjoying excellent seasons and is a prime reason for the overall offensive resurgence from last season.
Chipper is already an excellent hitting coach. He’s just a player-hitting coach!
jharber
July 26th, 2012
3:46 pm
Sure wish he would accept managers job for 2013. Thanks Chipper for all the memories.
Jack G
July 26th, 2012
3:50 pm
With all this hitting knowledge—-why cant they help Uggla???
nuh uh
July 26th, 2012
3:51 pm
Chipper should be hitting coach next year and then be added to the roster in September when the rosters expand so he can be a pinch hitter off the bench. I’m pretty sure he could still hit major league pitching even after a whole year off.
Yogi Berra
July 26th, 2012
3:51 pm
I’ve talked to a couple Braves coaches in last three months and they both said Chipper would make a great Manager. Just get Chipper to do it.
Yogi Berra
July 26th, 2012
3:52 pm
Greg Walker also would make a good manager.
jim
July 26th, 2012
3:53 pm
Can all the Braves Hosses and all the Braves men
put Dan Uggla together again?
King of Nothing.
July 26th, 2012
3:53 pm
Chuck Oliver is an idiot. Atlanta’s only active legend is making his final rounds. Kinda sad really. I love the nickname, BattleAx…. and I would love one of those shirts.
jharber
July 26th, 2012
3:54 pm
Before the beaning too head headed to listen, May be a little softer now
Chipper to Manager
July 26th, 2012
3:55 pm
Ahhhh, to be 40 again. I have always said Chipper would be a great manager. We don’t have one now.
ugafan13
July 26th, 2012
3:55 pm
Uggla is a space cadet and beyond help!
Skyler
July 26th, 2012
4:01 pm
Chipper won the batting title in 08, not 06.
Heisenberg
July 26th, 2012
4:05 pm
I would like Chipper to scream in Uggla’s ear “MOVE UP IN THE BOX CLOSER TO THE PITCHER, YOU ARE WAY AHEAD OF EVERYTHING!”
David O'Brien
July 26th, 2012
4:06 pm
sidslidkid, Yogi: Thank ya
Puma
July 26th, 2012
4:06 pm
Good read, thanks. Cheaper sounds like he would not want to deal with the stress of being a manager and just doing what he loves, which is hitting.
Heyward is looking pretty awesome, especially lately. I love having Heyward and Freeman in the 3 or 5 spots with Chipper in the middle. Now if only Uggs would get it together, that right handed bat would be tough.
Another Pretty Face
July 26th, 2012
4:06 pm
Ugg’s Must be Too UGLY for Larry’s Eyes.
Mark (another one)
July 26th, 2012
4:07 pm
If you listen to some of the reports, Chipper, Walker and Fletcher have all been working with Uggla and the results in batting practice have been good. The problem is translating it to the game. From the sound of it, the issue is getting his body tilted when he swings, which in turn tilts the swing plane.
Sometimes knowing the problem doesn’t lead to immediate improvement. Some players are simply better at making adjustments than others. Otherwise, Chipper could teach a no talent player to hit. It doesn’t work that way. The player has to put the adjustments into action during the game.
I also agree with sidslidkid above. The DOB articles about Chipper have a certain flow to them. They’re fun to read. I will miss them.
Peachtree John
July 26th, 2012
4:09 pm
The team psychologist needs to work with Chipper on his attitude towards managing. It’s impressive to just hear him talk the game. He knows the game and appears to have respect from the players. He should make a great manager beginning in 2013. Lack of experience, you say? Ha. He can learn on the fly and be better than most out of the box.
RoyU
July 26th, 2012
4:09 pm
Nobody of sane mind can question Chipper’s abilities as a MLB ballplayer. However, setting aside the respect that his should and obviously do have and show for him, I would question his ability to “coach” and feel that his doing this may be a contributing factor to the Braves inconsistencies. The Braves have two hitting coaches (three with Chipper) and one field manager (two with Chipper) and it may very well be that this is a major part of the problem. Does this add to the direction each and every player knows is right or does it actually confuse them? I believe tha latter is very possible. Greatness in any field does not necessarily carry with it the ability to teach. If I am trying conscientiously to do a very comprehensive responsibility, I want to do it with as little supervision as possible and especially not have to deal wih four or more supervisory personalities. This could very easily be a major part of the Braves probles. Sorry, Chipper, but you may be doing more harm than good!
thomas smith
July 26th, 2012
4:09 pm
uggla needs to realize he is strong enough to hit the ball out to any field.he could hit homers to right field too.so go with the pitch and quit trying to pull everything.
reckingball
July 26th, 2012
4:09 pm
Slump? Uglla ain’t in no slump, he just ain’t hittin’ right now.
reckingball
July 26th, 2012
4:10 pm
make tha Uggla. thanks
reckingball
July 26th, 2012
4:11 pm
make tha, that, thanks
ernestwaller
July 26th, 2012
4:13 pm
i do agree with the one preson that saud let”s send him out a winner. i do see the braves retiring his numberin less two yrs. i want to be there when they do,the last three breves nymbers they retied they won.let”s go braves.chop the bestchop in town.go braves & lets go chipper
reckingball
July 26th, 2012
4:17 pm
A P F @ 4:06pm……”Ugg’s must be too UGLY for Larry’s eyes.”
Too ugly, you don’t hit with your face.
joe
July 26th, 2012
4:18 pm
u talking to a mirror reck??
RoyU
July 26th, 2012
4:21 pm
What specifics can support Chipper as “excelling” as a coach??? We have three hitting coaches and only have two hitters that are performing very well, Bourn and Prado. And I believe they are doing it naturally on their own. Other than that what our two hitting coaches have done for Heyward, where are any other accomplishments??? ,
BravesWin
July 26th, 2012
4:22 pm
Uggla is way heavy on his back foot every time he swings, trying to lift the ball, which puts him even more ahead of the pitch. And he seems too stubborn to recognize it, let alone change it.
Yogi Berra
July 26th, 2012
4:31 pm
RoyU, I see your point about to many voices. Like High school where parents tell kid what to do and coach telling him something else.
MaCann’s brother and dad telling him how to hit..how does that make the 3 braves coaches look. You get my drift.
Amber Girl
July 26th, 2012
4:33 pm
I love Mr Uggla Because he is a Brave.
Amber Girl
July 26th, 2012
4:34 pm
I get it Mr Yogi Berra. I just don’t know why? Sorry about the Mr. I forgot.
chas
July 26th, 2012
4:35 pm
uggla is beyond chippers help or any coaches help. he thinks he knows it all; therefore his only help is from wren who should eat his salary and release him. the only value he has is GET OFF THE TEAM!!!!!!!!!!!
ernisTbass
July 26th, 2012
4:36 pm
Chipper belongs in the broadcast booth, he and Smoltz would be a good team
bravesgrl4life
July 26th, 2012
4:37 pm
I must make sure to take lots of tissues to the September 28 game where Chipper’s to be honored. Being basically the same age (I’m six months to the day older), and having watched Chipper as he came in a cocky young kid, as he went through his youthful indiscretions of marrying too young and getting in trouble doing what young men do, and maturing to an intelligent, humble man. I’m going to miss #10 out there at 3rd next year. It just won’t be the same, no matter who takes that position. Nobody will ever replace Larry Wayne Jones. He is one of a kind.
DOB, thanks so much for this article this afternoon. It’s a nice break from all the trade speculation stuff. Your respect and admiration for Chipper shines through here, and rightly so. He’s given you a lot to write about over the years.
Ryan
July 26th, 2012
4:39 pm
Chipper is one of a kind. Look at the Braves stats in general when he plays and doesn’t play. Then tell me if you’re worried about how this team does next year.
Yogi Berra
July 26th, 2012
4:41 pm
so it is, bravesgirl4life
arizona brave
July 26th, 2012
4:42 pm
Uggla cannot be helped because he will not listen to anyone.He won’t change his swing.
Skeezix
July 26th, 2012
4:44 pm
Chipper would make a great hitting coach! I hope he will be the Braves hitting coach someday.
Amber Girl
July 26th, 2012
4:46 pm
Chipper is my hero.
reckingball
July 26th, 2012
4:48 pm
I didn’t know that the Braves “only have two hitters that are performing very well”.
I wonder how they are 10 games over .500?
Yogi Berra
July 26th, 2012
4:49 pm
Cards 7 Dodgers 4 final
O'flarity's water bottle
July 26th, 2012
4:49 pm
Chipper could do a Pete Rose, play and mannage. Not the gamble part. For next year…
Coach (2012 Fredi's Beisbol Fandango)
July 26th, 2012
4:51 pm
Chipper is arguably the most knowledgeable and experienced hitter in the game of baseball today, it’s just that his legs retired about five years ago. That said, I often wonder what Mickey Mantle would have accomplished had he not endured similar career taxing leg injuries. The same can be said for Chipper.
double
July 26th, 2012
4:52 pm
Manager would be fine.Any position to keep him around.
Skeezix
July 26th, 2012
4:52 pm
re: Uggla’s woes. My guess is he’s too amped up at the plate. Too much tension. He’s always trying too hard to deliver the monster home run. Hitting a softball probably illustrates Uggla’s problems the best. We all have played softball. Hitting a softball isn’t all that hard–unless you try to kill the ball. When you tense up, try to swing real fast and try to kill a softball… you usually pop it up, hit a dribbler or miss all together. Sound like Uggla? If he’s on caffeine/red bull/etc., get him off it.
Disbott3000
July 26th, 2012
4:53 pm
I think it’s great that he and the hitting coaches work so well together. Heyward’s doing ok now. Maybe you guys can shift your focus over to Uggla now, and try to get him to at least hit the ball once in a while. Sheesh! That guy has not been as-advertised! If he doesn’t roll off another 30 game hitting streak soon, there will be no reclamation there at all.
Blackberry Cobbler
July 26th, 2012
4:59 pm
You can put lipstick and a dress on a pig, but it’s still a pig.
Uggla is beyond coaching.
JK
July 26th, 2012
5:07 pm
RoyU, the Braves are 3rd in the NL in hitting.
Amber Girl
July 26th, 2012
5:07 pm
LOL Mr Cobbler
Bravesfan73
July 26th, 2012
5:08 pm
DO’B – in which batting positions has Chipper not hit? I assume one would be #9. Is the other #8 or what/where? JMcE’M
Quicherbichin
July 26th, 2012
5:09 pm
RoyU… please do the rest of us a favor and keep your opinions to yourself.. very few people on the blog have ever been as incorrect as you are.
Quack Quack
July 26th, 2012
5:11 pm
DOB…..Thanks for the great article. Chipper will be missed, and I hope he decides to continue to be a part of the Braves Team in some capacity.
With the success of the hitting coaches, do you thing that Dan Uggla thinks he is to good to listen?
Looking for back to back sweeps coming up.
GO BRAVES!!!
Ted M
July 26th, 2012
5:12 pm
DOB – Do the hitting coaches travel with the team all the time?
Train Wreck Bystander
July 26th, 2012
5:12 pm
Chipper being the team leader in batting average, on-base percentage and slugging percentage speaks very well for our resident quadragenarian, but it is as equally damning for the rest of the lineup.
Ted M
July 26th, 2012
5:18 pm
Chuck Oliver IS an idiot. Mostly about college football though.
cowdogit
July 26th, 2012
5:19 pm
Chipper owns a business teaching sick-o-s and weird-o-s to kill defenseless animals. When killing animals no longer satisfies their lust for blood they often turn to killing humans, sometimes in large numbers. Braves fans could care less about his evil side. My pets wanted me to write in hope other animal lovers will stop kissing this creeps ass.
Paddy
July 26th, 2012
5:20 pm
JK…………..Roy U has not been around the game much, give him some slack. Don’t pile on if he is just learning.
J-bone
July 26th, 2012
5:20 pm
10 go yicketty.
Drinking the water from a toilet.
July 26th, 2012
5:20 pm
Enter your comments here
1eyedJack
July 26th, 2012
5:20 pm
Chipper is going to be vewy vewy hard to replace.
Ted M
July 26th, 2012
5:21 pm
train wreck – only 7 players in the NL are hitting higher then .318 so the fact that no one on our team is higher does not mean they stink.
Still being censored
July 26th, 2012
5:23 pm
JHC
Paddy
July 26th, 2012
5:24 pm
cowdogit @5:19 We kill defenseless animals to eat them. Fiind somewhere else to post, you are not going to do well here, girl.
Dtrainwreck
July 26th, 2012
5:26 pm
It was 08 he hit 364
David O'Brien
July 26th, 2012
5:26 pm
DOB – Do the hitting coaches travel with the team all the time?
Yes.
Fetus Breath
July 26th, 2012
5:28 pm
Just another fluff piece by O’Brien to get in good with the players and team. Is this all you do? Suck up to Fredi, Chipper and the rest of the organization? How can you be unbiased? We deserve better then a mouthpiece for the team. We have Chip Carey for that.
Braves in last palce by Sept fist
July 26th, 2012
5:34 pm
HAHAHAHA….Yea Mr O Brain meed a new riding freind and he wants it 2 be Chiper
News flash Chiper is rater shelfish so he mite now want U to be his riding ferind!
Chipper to Manager
July 26th, 2012
5:38 pm
Have to disagree about Chipper being an announcer. He has the tendancy to get mush mouth. Like when he talks out the side of his mouth. But I do hope he stays with what he loves, and that is the Braves. He has what it takes to be manager. Maybe that’s why is voted for fg to manage after Bobby left. He knew he would be very easy to replace.
Ostrich Racer
July 26th, 2012
5:39 pm
Back when Francoeur was having all his trouble, Chipper had a line worthy of a great coach: “He’s got about 500 people telling him how to fix it. And he’s listening to every one of ‘em.”
Quicherbichin
July 26th, 2012
5:39 pm
Fetus Breath… you are obviously from somewhere that encourages disparagement of the local teams. Feel free to read the Boston Globe, New York Times and other rags that only seem to harp on the negative side of things. Feel free to read them and please take your offensive name along with you.
Train Wreck Bystander
July 26th, 2012
5:40 pm
@ Ted M
I agree – “stink” is a bit strong. Let’s just say there is room for improvement.
I would also note that CJ is not qualified for the batting title. If you are going to arbitrarily include Chipper in at 7th in the NL, then you also have to include players like Matt Kemp & Justin Ruggiano.
I’d bet Prado & Bourn overtake him in average and Heyward & Freeman in slugging before years end.
Loosing Managar = Loosing Record
July 26th, 2012
5:45 pm
OK if Chipet is the leader of the team just how bad is this team 4 next year?
Quicherbichin
July 26th, 2012
5:45 pm
Braves in last place by Sept first…. do us all a favor and purchase a dictionary, Your lack of spelling in every single post reeks of the smell of the person you probably are… the banned Joe Tess Fish House… also known as “Loosing managar = Loosing record”… which also has 3 of 4 words misspelled.
Loosing Managar = Loosing Record
July 26th, 2012
5:46 pm
What did I do?
bostonbravo
July 26th, 2012
5:47 pm
Time & time again it’s been shown that HOF ‘ers make miserable managers…and it seems the less likely guys may have a better ability to teach because over years they’ve tried hardest to learn. Chipper has a natural gift that can’t really be taught.
kral
July 26th, 2012
5:47 pm
that was a ell of a word train..cannot spell it..will look it up later,but very impressed..and to cows do it..man his farm must be planning social revolution..wow..that may rate as the craziest blog ever..and YOU ..have problems with CHIPPER owning guns..thank goodness
Quicherbichin
July 26th, 2012
5:51 pm
LM=LR … you misspell words often enough to give people reason to not take you seriously and you insulted Chipper Jones, who is hitting over .300 this year. Yes, he is missing games, but that is to be expected at 40 years old in a young man’s game.
BoatDoc
July 26th, 2012
5:52 pm
DOB: For the after Chipper era are the Braves counting on Martin, Francisco or a player to be named later at 3B?
I imagine lots of fans might be interested in a “Battle Ax” T-shirt – any chance they might be available at the Chop Shop or other location?
Amber Girl
July 26th, 2012
5:52 pm
You guys are teaching me a lot and making me laugh. Thank you.
Quicherbichin
July 26th, 2012
5:54 pm
Always happy to be good for a laugh, Amber Girl… some people here just upset me.. LOL
old brave, retired
July 26th, 2012
5:55 pm
I don’t know what Teheran is up to this year, but it might be one of those tired arms type thing. I think Uggla needs a heavier bat, like Chipper’s. He swings so viciously and usually misses. A heavier bat would slow the swing down and make more contact.
Fansince66
July 26th, 2012
5:56 pm
well said bravesrl4life! I wonder how many people that write on this blog could begin to perform at Chipper’s level s as a person or an athlete if they were under this kind of scrutiny… not many if any at all!!! RoyU…get a clue.So many Braves in the past have givenChipper for making a difference in their career, most recently Brian McCann. Thanks Chipper for helping Atlanta shed the lable of Losersville
Beach Dawg
July 26th, 2012
6:00 pm
DOB, I think an interesting approach when comparing Chipper’s record, RBIs, etc. would be to base on games played. I am not sure but I believe that he has played far fewer games than Brett and Schmidt did.
Quicherbichin
July 26th, 2012
6:01 pm
Old Brave… Everything I’ve read seems to indicate Teheran isn’t making progress at all this year… and as far as Uggla goes… he’s always been streaky… but it seems to have gotten worse since he’s gotten here… he needs to go on a hot streak that lasts the rest of the season to have any hope of decent numbers at all.
John in Wichita
July 26th, 2012
6:02 pm
Great column, Dave. Thanks.
buttermaker
July 26th, 2012
6:06 pm
great story sir, thank you and ajc
Columbus
July 26th, 2012
6:07 pm
Would love Chipper to stay on a couple years as a pinch hitter/part time player like Diaz or Hinske or Francisco, for a lt less money of course. He can still hit and gets tons of walks. Being a switch hitter makes him that more awesome at the plate. Pitchers are ULTRA careful pitching to him and his OBP is always near the top. He would make a GREAT DH but dont want to see him in another uni….I dont want to see him quit….Hes got a lot left in his bat, just not his knees….
kral
July 26th, 2012
6:12 pm
thanks to the booger who blogged that Hanson did not get the win last night I had to watch the replay today..whew..thought I had one to many while grilling yesterday…good cannot blame it on that
Amber Girl
July 26th, 2012
6:14 pm
Got to go help Mom. Thank you for the education and the laughs. Love y’all and I LOVE THE BRAVES. Hope to chat with all of you tomorrow. Take care and Good nite to all. Go Braves!!!
jharber
July 26th, 2012
6:17 pm
Hanson did get the win.
Columbus
July 26th, 2012
6:17 pm
It would be nice also if this article shuts some of the morons up who are always hatin on Chipper. Best hitter on the team and while he slumped last year early, he had found the swing he had when he won the batting title 2 weeks before he got hurt and his season ended. It was mroe powerful than I seen him have an few years and then he goes down…I will take 100 games from Chipper any year. He scores, he hits, he has power and he gets on base and he is a switch hitter! I hope the haters see the facts posted in this article and zip it and show the man the love and support he deserves….GREAT COLUMN DAVE
1eyedJack
July 26th, 2012
6:19 pm
Wish I was having as good a season as Chipper…sans the marital stuff.
bostonbravo
July 26th, 2012
6:20 pm
So now I read on SI that Braves will end up with Greinke. How?? He’s turned down $100 million for 5 yr. Braves will be mortgaging a helluva lot on him. He’s right age…but I’m gunshy…we’ve been burnt too often…you take the time to list ‘em…some real stinking deals last 5 yrs or so. Uggla just happens to be most recent…although Lowe is gone we still paid him…
Johnny Vaught
July 26th, 2012
6:22 pm
Tell him to have a chat with Uggla
UNCBrave
July 26th, 2012
6:34 pm
So lets get Chipper to the playoffs….Sign GREINKE
2. Braves. The Braves like Greinke very much, and another positive, he is said to like them, as well, a big plus after their bad experience of being blown off by Ryan Dempster (who they expected to approve the deal to Atlanta). Greinke is said by one person close to him to actually love the idea of Atlanta long-term, as the Braves have been consistent winners (a big thing for him, though apparently not so much for Dempster) and it doesn’t hurt that they train in his hometown of Orlando. The Braves have a very nice crop of big-time pitching prospects, including Randall Delgado, who was all set to go to Chicago for Dempster.
Greinke WANTS to be a BRAVE….MAKE IT HAPPEN WREN!
phil
July 26th, 2012
6:42 pm
Outstanding piece, DOB!
BravesfaninWis
July 26th, 2012
6:45 pm
DOB,
Any rumblings on who the Braves are targeting as the trade deadline approaches? Its looking like the Angels and White Sox are the most serious suitors for Greinke at this point in time.
Awesome article on Chipper and I am with the mass here when I say I hope Chipper becomes the hitting coach for this team sometime soon. He will be awesome to have in the dugout even when he is no longer a active player.
Screwball
July 26th, 2012
6:48 pm
Yes, Chipper is having a gutsy year at the plate and in the field. But shouldnt DOB be spot-welded to Frank Wren for the scoop on what deals the Braves can and cannot make and the reasons why. Save the Chipper retrospections for September.
NorCal Brave
July 26th, 2012
6:49 pm
Could perhaps the great Henry Aaron have a talk with Uggla and all the Braves hitters for that matter?The Hammer was recently paid the ultimate compliment by Texas Ranger president Nolan Ryan, who knocked Josh Hamilton for giving away too many at-bats. Ryan singled out Aaron as one guy who never gave away an at-bat in during his long career, approaching each trip to the plate as a battle. There are a few guys on this team who could benefit from that type of mentality.
Yogi Berra
July 26th, 2012
6:54 pm
Dempster throws a tantram, cooler,and contents about dugout yesterday when mgr took him out of game. Another Zambrano!
Glad we didn’t get that nut case.
Chipster
July 26th, 2012
6:59 pm
If y’all want to sniff my jock, meet me at Hooter’s, haw-haw
Carl Farvman
July 26th, 2012
6:59 pm
“Chuck Oliver IS an idiot. Mostly about college football though.Enter your comments here”
Well, then Matt Turnoff is an even bigger idiot. That radio show is painful.
David O'Brien
July 26th, 2012
7:02 pm
Yes, Chipper is having a gutsy year at the plate and in the field. But shouldnt DOB be spot-welded to Frank Wren for the scoop on what deals the Braves can and cannot make and the reasons why — Screwball
Spot-welded to Frank Wren, huh? You been following the Braves for very long, Screwball?
Chief Knock-A-Homa
July 26th, 2012
7:09 pm
DOB – In your opinion, who are we having to give up to get Greinke if it can be pulled off?? Milwaukee sounds like they are looking for SS help and SP… Delgado and Pastornicky??
Chief Knock-A-Homa
July 26th, 2012
7:10 pm
Or, do you think a blockbuster is even remotely being considered with Hart being put in for the big bat, as well??
Chief Knock-A-Homa
July 26th, 2012
7:11 pm
Or, do you think there is any possibility Wren would think about trying to get Hart with Greinke for another bat we need?? If so, what do you think that blockbuster would look like??
eskippy
July 26th, 2012
7:17 pm
a fire truck
kral
July 26th, 2012
7:23 pm
I am sorry DB spot welding will really hurt..buy come on take one for the team
Surreylannder
July 26th, 2012
7:27 pm
Why can’t Chipper,Walker,& Fletcher help the mess named Uggla ?
Busch Leaguer
July 26th, 2012
7:30 pm
@Chief k-a-h
Blockbuster deal would include Uggla ,Delgado ,Rev and Venters ,for Rickie Weeks ,Jon Axford ,Manny Parra and Grienke. Weeks and Uggla are both struggling at the plate change of scenery would do them both some good. This is only if you want a blockbuster trade .Otherwise ,Delgado and the Rev for Grienke.
eskippy
July 26th, 2012
7:32 pm
If they can’t get rid of uggla, they should make him bunt every time that it could possibly work in the game situation. He sure isn’t any help swinging for the next county every time.
Chief Knock-A-Homa
July 26th, 2012
7:35 pm
@Busch Leaguer
That WOULD be a blockbuster… But, who I’m talking about is only Greinke and Cory Hart… Thoughts??
JeanE
July 26th, 2012
7:38 pm
Great article! I will miss seeing Larry Wayne Jones Jr. manning 3rd base…I’ve loved seeing his smile this year and knowing how much he’s treasuring every moment, going out on his terms. I just hope people appreciate how amazing he is and we get to see him play right here! They’ll never be another Chipper.
Busch Leaguer
July 26th, 2012
7:41 pm
@Chief
Delgado ,Rev and another minor league arm may do the trick for Grinke and Hart ,but I think the Brewers would rather move Weeks than Hart. Uggla and Weeks would be a good match ,both are 2b and both are former all-stars having horrible years at the plate.
flange1
July 26th, 2012
7:45 pm
Great article DOB!
As usual THANKS!
Chief Knock-A-Homa
July 26th, 2012
7:48 pm
@Busch
I think you’re right, but I’d rather hang onto Uggs and believe that with another big bat and the right move in the lineup he’d snap out… I like Hart – think about the outfield with Bourne, Heyward and Hart… That would be a pretty good upgrade….
bostonbravo
July 26th, 2012
7:53 pm
Knock a homa…still waiting for Brooks Conrad, Glaus, McLouth to snap out of it??Sometimes it’s just “over”.
Busch Leaguer
July 26th, 2012
7:54 pm
About trades that have already happened ,Very happy for Omar Infante one of my favorite former Braves ,he gets out of that grease fire in Miami and gets to go to a contender and play for a class manager Jim Leyland.
RoyU
July 26th, 2012
7:55 pm
Quicherbichin: Would appreciate your input if you said anything worth consideration or reading!!! Try answering the question(s). I may be incorrect at times but at least I give my reasoning. It’s easy to say someone is wrong but much more difficult to justify what we say. At 80 years of age, I have been around the block a few times and probably passed you quite often. Be a good fan but be realistic!!!
Chief Knock-A-Homa
July 26th, 2012
7:57 pm
boston… no, I just don’t think we give away Uggla when he’s still an impact in other areas for the team and clubhouse, and has show an ability to snap out of it as you say… I don’t think all of a sudden, he’s just “over”…
BrandonLee49
July 26th, 2012
7:58 pm
One player, does Not a Team make, never has and never will. All these “Fantasy Baseball” chants are amusing, turning suddenly into another dose of Reality in September… all this makes for much sentiment which all sounds nice on the surface, unfortunately it has no roots.
nuh uh
July 26th, 2012
7:58 pm
You’re 80 years old and know how to work a computer? You’ve got my respect.
Neekrow
July 26th, 2012
8:00 pm
I like the Weeks for Uggla trade. It might do both good with a change of scenery. What about Delgado,Pastornicky,and Uggla for Grienke & Weeks ?
BrandonLee49
July 26th, 2012
8:00 pm
“Chief”, GLAD to see Someone actually displays some Samity, instead of all this emotional nonsense.
Michael
July 26th, 2012
8:05 pm
Chipper, wish you could play at this level another five years. The Braves Era of Old is coming to an end. I pray he stays healthy the rest of the way, because this is called going out with dignity and on top.
Neekrow
July 26th, 2012
8:10 pm
I read where the Nats want Grienke too. If they get him theyd be unstoppable. I’m watching ESPN. I’m already tired of hearing about Peyton Manning as a Bronco in July…
varoadrunner
July 26th, 2012
8:12 pm
I like the Uggla and Delgado for Greinke and Weeks idea. Send Pastornicki somewhere for a prospect or something. When is Andrelton coming back. Seems like a year. lol
why trade for King Felix have more sense than Greinke´s deal
July 26th, 2012
8:14 pm
well i have some points about:
1.- Greinke pretends hit the free agency after this season so it´s not sure he will sign a extension with Atlanta..by the way Greinke idea about contract is like 5 years and 90-100 mdd i guess
2.-He have an anxiety problems , that is not good for a playoff team and obviously nothing good for give him an extension
Now points about Felix Hernandez:
1.- Maybe the same cost like Greinke with the big difference Felix is under control 2013 and 2014 earning 19.5 mdd and 20 mdd,,,this season the remaining salary by Felix is like 6 mdd
2.-He dont have anxiety problems, he is a power pitching , a competitor
3.- He is only 26 years old
4.- He will be improve his numbers with a better offensive than Seattle
2012 Felix numbers. GS 21 9 wins 5 loses 2.80 ERA . 147 K only 39 BB WHIP 1.15 0.6 HR/9 148 IP
2012 Greinke numbers: GS 21 9 wins 3 loses 3.44 ERA 122 K 28 BB WHIP 1.20 0.5 HR/9 123 IP
PROBABLE PACKAGE FOR GREINKE: Teheran, Pastornicky and maybe other like Terdoslavich
PROBABLE PACKAGE FOR FELIX: Teheran or Delgado, Spruill , Gearrin or Varvaro, and one batter (Pastornicky, Terdoslavich or Gettis (Gattis) hehe)
the key here is you have the security you will have Felix for the next 2 seasons
Chief Knock-A-Homa
July 26th, 2012
8:15 pm
Brandon – thanks… Just don’t see getting rid of Uggla at this stage… He’s been through this before and should be fine… If not, there’s time to move him later….
Jarrod Weever
July 26th, 2012
8:18 pm
I agree with Busch Leaguer & Neekrow, Uggla needs to go.
kral
July 26th, 2012
8:24 pm
Let us see whose is jumping o a 12mil..2.15 batting average contract..come on ugg..still hoping
Fats
July 26th, 2012
8:25 pm
Mr.Uggla could probably crush many of our heads like a grape,but I still think he needs to sit or take a vacation for a week. Maybe the Braves could bring in a Hall of Fame hitter and consult him. Someone who would tell him the truth. Hank Aaron maybe???
Busch Leaguer
July 26th, 2012
8:27 pm
Trouble with acquiring King Felix is that you would have to overwhelm Seattle with an offer that would more than likely include Freeman.Brewers are going to trade Greinke somewhere ,think Milwaukee is leaking other teams interest to drive up price for Greinke .
Busch Leaguer
July 26th, 2012
8:32 pm
@Chief
Trouble with Uggla is we have all been through this before and I don’t want to go through it again.
Katy Allen
July 26th, 2012
8:32 pm
Uggla’s cute but not a very good hitter.
Screwball
July 26th, 2012
8:34 pm
Yes, I have, as a matter of fact. By spot-welded, I mean sticking close to. Does Frank Wren live in a secret undisclosed location? I mean staying current on and reporting on, even dismissing, rumors. I would rather know what the Rangers/Angels/W Sox et al might have to lure Greinke vs. what the Braves have packaged? Why do I have to read that elsewhere? Instead, we get another piece about good ol’ Chipper (whom I respect). Give me some news, man.
bostonbravo
July 26th, 2012
8:36 pm
Re: Uggla. Yes, in fact, sometimes…just like “THAT!” it’s over! In fact, & sadly, that is usually the case, in most endeavors requiring a skill set.
Busch Leaguer
July 26th, 2012
8:38 pm
Brewers are sad ,Nats 4 Brew Crew 0 top of 2nd.
rharling
July 26th, 2012
8:40 pm
DOB, seems like on an off day like today your choices on the boards all lead you to crap city. You can choose to not write anything, in which case, people on this board whine that you aren’t doing your job. You can speculate who the Braves might trade for, but then you only postpone the whining until later, when the trade doesn’t happen. You can get on the phone with Braves officials and beg for a scoop, knowing full well that the Braves never release any information about anybody they might be targeting. I try to think of a scenario in which whining won’t come your way, but even if the Braves win the Series, I assume people will whine that they will never repeat.
Busch Leaguer
July 26th, 2012
8:42 pm
Here is another thought about SP ,how about James Shields from the Rays .Would have control through 2014. He has playoff experience and is about same age as Greinke.Crap, Tampa needs bats not arms. Could include Uggla and a lot of $$$$ .
Busch Leaguer
July 26th, 2012
8:43 pm
Do the Braves have any hitting prospects ,ready to be moved for a major league SP?
Weedeater
July 26th, 2012
8:52 pm
Blashemy from the uneducated is rampant on here.
Yogi Berra
July 26th, 2012
8:55 pm
screwball go to MLB.com its all listed. Wren don’t give out info on trades to no-body. DOB is working 20 hours out of 24 and does a damn good job. Show some respect.
Yogi Berra
July 26th, 2012
8:59 pm
Rays don’t want Uggla they have $$$ problems.. that why they trading Shields.
The three most likely for Zach would be Delgado, Graham & Aprill. I too would love to see Hart in deal.
Yogi Berra
July 26th, 2012
9:00 pm
sorry that Spruill sp.
Chief-Ground-Rule-Double
July 26th, 2012
9:02 pm
If Kimbrel got Uggla traded would he get a save ?
braves
July 26th, 2012
9:02 pm
what about that? PITTSBURGH PIRATE Starling Marte knocked a lead off 1st pitch 1st carrer HR in his first AB… obviously vs Astros in Minute Maid Park…still counts
Chief-Ground-Rule-Double
July 26th, 2012
9:10 pm
No update on potential trade DOB ?
Greg
July 26th, 2012
9:23 pm
If Chipper had done steroids he could have put up some of the best numbers in the history of the game.
Now my poop is white
July 26th, 2012
9:33 pm
Does anyone know how much an adult human arm weighs?
D man
July 26th, 2012
9:36 pm
I sure hope the season ends with a Chipper moment in the World Series. Wouldn’t that be cool.
darrell starks
July 26th, 2012
9:51 pm
Let take Chipper out with a bang and get a championship.
Go get Josh Johnson.
GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
darrell starks
July 26th, 2012
9:54 pm
Braves Rotation
1. Josh
2. Hudson
3. Henson
4. Sheets
5. Minor
World Series Babby
GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
BrianSC
July 26th, 2012
10:12 pm
The Battle Axe t-shirts. HUGE marketing opportunity there. They better design some for next year to sell with Chipper’s career statistics once this season is complete.
Seriously, that would make a sweet t-shirt.
darrell starks
July 26th, 2012
10:17 pm
What if the Braves could trade Uggla for B J Upton, and move Prado 2B.
GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!!!!!
darrell starks
July 26th, 2012
10:19 pm
1. BOURN CF
2. UPTON LF
3. PRADO 3B
4. HEYWARD RF
5. FREEMAN 1B
6. MCANN CATCHER
7. CHIPPER 3B
8. SIMMONS SS
GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
keeping it real
July 26th, 2012
10:27 pm
To change the topic. Hanson has turned into a mediocre major league pitcher. When he first came up, he looked like a top of the rotation starter. Since then he has lost 3-5 mph on his fastball and rarely has command. He is Jurrjens in waiting.
David O'Brien
July 26th, 2012
10:39 pm
DOB – In your opinion, who are we having to give up to get Greinke if it can be pulled off?? Milwaukee sounds like they are looking for SS help and SP… Delgado and Pastornicky?? — Chief Knock-A-Homa
I think it’ll take more than that. Delgado and a strong prospect, or perhaps Teheran (though I don’t rate him above Delgado, most others do) and Pastornicky, something like that.
Skeezix
July 26th, 2012
11:11 pm
The Dodgers have said no to the Cubs regarding the Dempster deal and have said they want Garza. Ha! I guess Dempster will spend the rest of the season pitching for the miserable Cubs and throwing water coolers around. I sure hope Wren has closed the door to Dempster and is focused on Greinke.
Skeezix
July 26th, 2012
11:20 pm
Oh yeah, Dave you are doing a great job keeping us up to date on the Braves and ignore the idiots. Your job is to cover the Braves which means you have to spend a lot of time with the players, coaches/G.M.;i.e., you have to establish rapport with them and there needs to be some level of trust. Otherwise they won’t talk to you and you can’t do your job. Yet the idiots expect you to play some kind of Mike Wallace 60 minutes adversarial role–with a bunch of gotcha questions/comments. Oh well, what can one say? Just ignore them.
serbok
July 26th, 2012
11:26 pm
“Yes, Chipper is having a gutsy year at the plate and in the field. But shouldnt DOB be spot-welded to Frank Wren for the scoop on what deals the Braves can and cannot make and the reasons why — Screwball
Spot-welded to Frank Wren, huh? You been following the Braves for very long, Screwball?”
I Think you hurt that guys feelings Dave
Rotunda Shaquonda Obama
July 27th, 2012
12:11 am
Retire now Larry.
Spud
July 27th, 2012
1:35 am
Chipper will be missed. Good thing GM’s don’t consult blogs for advice. If the Braves did, Chipper would have been gone long ago.
Gene Stallings once said, “if you listen to the fans, you’ll soon be sitting with them.”
NO MORE FREDI
July 27th, 2012
1:35 am
Will make an amazing hitting coach but never a manager. His leadership qualities are one of the things I dislike about him. He doesn’t have that Jeter team leader thing going for him.
cowdogit
July 27th, 2012
3:47 am
And the blind man led the way for those who would not see!!!
BravesFanInMaine
July 27th, 2012
6:55 am
The deal for greinke will be delgado, pastornicky and teheran….. with an extension signed to it!
George T
July 27th, 2012
7:41 am
Chipper bashers….I bet he would be willing to meet any of you in the tunnel to discuss your vile; crude; and abusive comments regarding him personally. I would like to be there to watch.
Yogi Berra
July 27th, 2012
8:04 am
Good morning DOB and everyone..God Bless USA..have a great day.
timboy6
July 27th, 2012
8:34 am
Uggla seems to me to be trying to hit a home run every time up. Stop swinging so hard and swing until control a bit more
timboy6
July 27th, 2012
8:34 am
typo, under control.
alex
July 27th, 2012
8:41 am
@skeezix, DOB keeps us aware of what? Why would anyone take uggla at this point. In any case, he needs to move on for the Braves sake and his own. Clearly he is in a slump, even if he has a decent #’s last 2 months,his numbers for the SEASON are unacceptable for the payout. Ihope we don’t rent Dempster, agree with Skeezix,let him stew in the cellar
bravesfan
July 27th, 2012
8:42 am
Uggla is not willing to be coached on hitting, much like a former Brave now with KC
BattleAxe for President
July 27th, 2012
8:50 am
Uggla will start hitting soon and if he clicks on all cylinders like he did after last seasons slump ended, I think the Braves have a better than good shot at the playoffs. I doubt we can count on a Washington collapse so they just need to get their mind set to get there any way possible.
Amber Girl
July 27th, 2012
9:31 am
Good morming Y,all Miss ignorramus is here. Hopefully I will get more education and laughs from y’all
reckingball
July 27th, 2012
9:36 am
How much better is Hanson than Delgado?
Which one has the higher trade value?
Dan Uggla
July 27th, 2012
10:03 am
I wanna be the hitting coach too!!!
Mike Gundy
July 27th, 2012
10:54 am
Chipper’s a man! He’s 40!!!!!
harry taylor
July 27th, 2012
11:38 am
Ah yes the great poster boy from Hooters. Want my son to grow up just like him. NO.
Jborodawg
July 27th, 2012
12:54 pm
@Columbus… It would be nice also if this article shuts some of the morons up who are always hatin on Chipper…”
Amen, brother. Although there does seem to be a little less hatin this year than the last couple. Some fans just don’t realize this is a golden opportunity this year to see a HOFer live and in action…now, not on film. Haters need only observe how every away team has honored him this year…and opposing fans giving him standing ovations. That really says a lot. Not to mention his stats this year.
@Fats…Maybe the Braves could bring in a Hall of Fame hitter and consult him. Someone who would tell him the truth. Hank Aaron maybe???…”
Good lord son, did you not just read the article on which you’re commenting?
Uggs appears to not be listening to either the coaches nor Chipper. But, maybe it’s also like Chipper says, “…400 people advising him..and he listens to all of em…” I wonder if that was the case with A. Jones? He sure seemed hard-headed. I thought the same about J.Francisco for a while; until lately when he started hitting. And, ya know, Freeman and B Mac weren’t so hot for a while. Hopefully, Uggs’ll come out of it. I’m not ready to give up on him quite yet. Remember why we got him in the first place? Far as that goes, why no hate on Janish? He might be a defensive whiz, but good lord, he just recently raised his average to .184.
“…replace Henske with Chipper…” At first blush, I thought that was a good idea. But Henske also plays OF. No way Chipper could play OF. Otherwise, I agree he could come off the bench and excel. Hopefully, Henske will come around too…and be the bench guy he’s been historically.
Robert
July 27th, 2012
1:46 pm
There’s no doubt he can still hit. Heck, I’d bet he’ll be able to hit when he’s 60.
Bob Horner's Blonde Mullet
July 27th, 2012
2:14 pm
Good article DOB. Chipper’s having a nice Swan Song – hope he keeps it up. Sure wish we would’ve given him multiple off days toward the end of the Bobby Cox era… probably would’ve gotten the same number of games out of him, with better numbers and less trips to the DL.
Kev4braves
July 27th, 2012
2:15 pm
If we just signed Batista who the Mets cut, Frank needs his head examined. Make Chipper the manager next year and bring in new GM like Billy Beane.
BrandonLee49
July 27th, 2012
2:27 pm
Roy U = Correct Again !!!
paul in richmond
July 27th, 2012
3:19 pm
I agree with Roy. Teams and groups have personalities. Some believe in themselves. Others expect to win. Others see themselves as in over their heads. etc etc. Those who come to the Braves fired up and gutsy cannot imbue that personality onto a team that is playing part time and always fretting about resting or some injury. Further, people are shuffled in and out like cogs (except for a few revered players) and expected to perform as if they were part of something larger.
A team has to think, act and play as a team and I don’t believe you can do that with two or three “leaders” in the group.
As to hitting coaches – you must be kidding. The braves get where they get on pitching. If they could hit they would be top of the division all the time. They can’t hit. They wait for the big bop and that attitude wrecks their hitters (including uggla)
Nativebird
July 27th, 2012
5:33 pm
That Walker and Fletcher, man, what a great hitting coach that guy is.
Chipster
July 27th, 2012
6:57 pm
“Chipper bashers….I bet he would be willing to meet any of you in the tunnel to discuss yourvile; crude; and abusive comments regarding him personally. I would like to be there to watch.”
–you got that right…with all the dough I make, I could hire someone who’s actually tough to whoop some ass, haw-haw
Donna brunty
July 27th, 2012
9:40 pm
I have been saying for years Chip should take a break then come back as the Braves hitting coach. I think he would be one of the best ever.However for the Braves only cuz I cant cheer for any one else. Just thinkhow awesome that would be ,not to mention unheard of ,drafted by the team you retire with in your 60’s. Chip is the bat swingin man!
Jborodawg
July 28th, 2012
8:12 am
If all the players don’t hit .300 Chipper will get bashed by many of you, as you have with Fredi, T.P., Walker, et al. If one or two are batting .200, look out Chipper; it’ll be all your fault and you’ll need to be shipped off.
IHATEFREDDIE
July 28th, 2012
10:18 am
Make Chipper the player/manager now!