Hudson hopes for extension, wants to finish as Brave
He’s Southern through and through, and Braves pitcher Tim Hudson would like to keep it here for the rest of his career.
The Braves are expected to pick up a $9 million team option on Hudson’s contract for 2013, relatively inexpensive for a pitcher of his pedigree. But at age 37, it’s uncertain what kind of contract the team might offer beyond next season.
“I’d love to stay here,” said Hudson, a native of Phenix City, Ala., and former Auburn star who’s been with the Braves for eight seasons. “Obviously for next year, but I’d love to stay here as long as they’ll have me. I understand a business is a business.”
Hudson is 10-1/2 months removed from major back surgery and barely a week removed from his seventh season of at least 16 wins. He opened the season on the disabled list recovering from lumbar-fusion surgery and made 28 starts (second-fewest since his rookie year), but Hudson (16-7) still led the Braves in wins and pitched 179-1/3 innings — one-third of an inning behind team leader Mike Minor.
“I’m hoping Huddy comes back,” Braves pitcher Kris Medlen said. “I hope they pick [up the option]. He won 16 games for us and missed a month. That just shows how much we need him and how good he is.”
Hudson’s ERA climbed from 2.83 in 2010 to 3.22 in 2011 and 3.62 in 2012. The sinkerballer again ranked among baseball’s leaders in percentage of groundballs, and his .361 opponents’ slugging percentage tied for third in the National League with San Francisco’s Matt Cain and Pittsburgh’s A.J. Burnett, trailing only the Nationals’ Gio Gonzalez and the Dodgers’ Clayton Kershaw.
Hudson missed a start in June for a bone spur in his left ankle, and at that time he thought it would require surgery in the offseason. But after having a cortisone injection and laying off his in-season running program for several weeks, he had only mild discomfort the rest of the season.
“The way it was bothering me, I thought there was no way to not have something done,” he said. “But it got better and it hasn’t crept back on me since. So I don’t think there’s anything I’m going to have to do to it. Hopefully in December when I’m sitting around my house, it still feels the same.”
More significant was relief he got via Nov. 28 back surgery. For the first time in several seasons, Hudson wasn’t slowed by back issues. He said during the spring that he thought the surgery might prolong his career, and still believes that.
“I felt better this year than I have in a while, except for the ankle,” he said. “My arm felt great all year, my back never gave me any problems, so that was definitely encouraging. I feel good that I can pitch for a while longer.”
Hudson said he hopes to discuss a contract extension with the Braves this winter.
“That may not be something they want to entertain at this moment,” he said. “They’ve got the one option for next year and they might want to wait and see [beyond that]. I feel like the conversation is warranted, I guess.”
After missing part of 2008 and most of ’09 recovering from ligament-transplant elbow surgery, Hudson went 49-26 with a 3.19 ERA and .237 opponents’ batting average in 622-2/3 innings (95 starts) over the past three seasons. He made $9 million each of those seasons under a contract extension he signed following the 2009 season, a deal that also included the ’13 option and $1 million buyout.
For the sake of comparison, here’s what Philadelphia’s high-priced starting trio did during the past three seasons:
– Roy Halladay went 51-24 with a 2.91 ERA and .247 opponents’ average in 640-2/3 innings (90 starts). Halladay, 35, made $55.75 million over three seasons including $20 million each of the past two. He has a $20 million salary in 2013 and $20 million vesting option for 2014.
– Cole Hamels went 43-26 with a 2.97 ERA and .229 opponents’ average in 640 innings (95 starts). Hamels, 28, made $31 million over three seasons and signed a new deal that pays him $19.5 million in 2013 and $22.5 million each of the five seasons beyond that.
– Cliff Lee went 35-26 with 2.89 ERA and .241 opponents’ average in 656 innings (90 starts). Lee, 34, made $41.5 million over the past three seasons and has $25 million salaries each of the next three years, plus a $27.5 million vesting option for 2016.
The Braves have until three days after the World Series to pick up or decline options on the contracts of Hudson, pitcher Paul Maholm ($6.5 million) and catcher Brian McCann ($12 million). If they pick up the options on both pitchers, their five-man Opening Day rotation might cost about $22 million.
That’s roughly one-third of what the Phillies will owe the threesome of Halladay, Lee and Hamels in 2013.
The Braves have a strong group of young starting pitchers and prospects, led by Medlen and Minor, both outstanding in the second half of the season. Hudson has grown comfortable in a mentor role and has plenty of advice and tips for up-and-coming Braves.
“Both on the field and in the clubhouse, and away from the field,” he said. “I feel like there’s things I can offer, knowledge that only experience can get you. I hope I’m around. We’ll see. I feel like I’ve pulled my end of the bargain. Hopefully they feel the same and they’re going to keep me around for a little bit longer.”
Hudson made $15.5 million in each of the 2008 and 2009 seasons in the final years of the first contract extension he signed after being traded to the Braves from Oakland. Those were the only two seasons in which he made more than $9 million. He’s made about $89 million in a major league career than began in 1999.
Hudson was a 20-game winner (20-6) in his first full season in 2000, and in 2001 he went 18-9 and was the American League Cy Young Award runner-up and 15th in the AL MVP balloting. He hasn’t matched that wins total since, but has won 11 or more games in 13 of 14 seasons, all except his 2009 season in which he made only seven starts.
He’s won 13 or more games 10 times and 16 or more seven times including each of the past three seasons.
Hudson has a 186-102 record since the beginning of the 2000 season, trailing only CC Sabathia (191-102) and Halladay (190-93) in wins during that period.
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161 comments Add your comment
baseballtwin
October 15th, 2012
4:15 pm
They’ve paid for a lot worse. Bring him back!
baseballtwin
October 15th, 2012
4:15 pm
oh, and, first
Billy
October 15th, 2012
4:18 pm
yeah, keep Hudson in ATL!
Keith
October 15th, 2012
4:19 pm
Not bringing back Huddy would be a tragedy.
john
October 15th, 2012
4:23 pm
pick up the option and give him a 2 year deal. the 2nd year will be vesting with inn pitched. he deserves it.
Ray
October 15th, 2012
4:29 pm
Bring Hudson back. His option is more than affordable.I wonder if he would sign a 2 year deal at around 16-18m.
Ray
October 15th, 2012
4:29 pm
Bring Hudson back. His option is more than affordable.I wonder if he would sign a 2 year deal at around 16-18m.
Ray
October 15th, 2012
4:30 pm
Apologize for the double post.
supsalemgr
October 15th, 2012
4:31 pm
You never have enough pitching as the Braves again saw in 2012. Huddy at $9M is a bargain.
Bill M.
October 15th, 2012
4:38 pm
Pick up his option and go from there. The Braves have to many young pitchers. Something has to give. I hope they don’t make the mistake and trade all their young pitchers.
the truth...
October 15th, 2012
4:44 pm
If the article says anything, it is that Huddy wants to stay around his home….these are his roots and he will take less to play here….
I’m in for Huddy for two not one more year….
Disbott3000
October 15th, 2012
5:00 pm
If he’s healthy and willing to be reasonable on price with the Braves, I don’t see any reason why he shouldn’t get an extension. Those are two key things though.
Frank Shab in PA
October 15th, 2012
5:02 pm
My God what is there to think about? Bring him back, ASAP!
VP
October 15th, 2012
5:03 pm
Of course the Braves will bring him back.
Kevin
October 15th, 2012
5:05 pm
Wonder if the Braves consider declining the option and resigning him to a 2-3 yr deal instead.
MB3G
October 15th, 2012
5:06 pm
pick up the option and then give him a 2 year contract for roughly 17.5 mil
snoopy
October 15th, 2012
5:08 pm
medlen, hudson, beachy, minor, maholom….not a bad starting 5 for the second half next year…trade hanson, uggla, Delgado, dont sign bourn, move prado to 3rd and sign Josh Hamilton for about 20 mill a year
snoopy
October 15th, 2012
5:08 pm
medlen, hudson, beachy, minor, maholom….not a bad starting 5 for the second half next year…trade hanson, uggla, Delgado, dont sign bourn, move prado to 3rd and sign Josh Hamilton for about 20 mill a year
DJ
October 15th, 2012
5:08 pm
This isn’t even up for discussion. Huddy can been consistent since coming to the ATL back in ‘05. He is still an ace, although I would give the nod to Medlen as the opening day starter in ‘13.
Here what we’ll have as the starting staff in ‘13:
Medlen
Hudson
Maholm
Minor
Hanson
Not a bad staff at all for only about $22 million…
DJ
October 15th, 2012
5:11 pm
By the way sign Huddy for two years & 17.5 million plus a vesting option for ‘15 at about $8 million…
Heisenberg
October 15th, 2012
5:12 pm
If they decline option then he becomes free agent. That would be dumb. Pick it up, then talk about years 2-3.
The bone spurs in the ankle are a concern. Would rather he get it cleaned out now than wait and miss the first month (or more) again.
Remarkable
October 15th, 2012
5:13 pm
I think this one’s a no-brainer. Bring him back.
Heisenberg
October 15th, 2012
5:16 pm
What needs to be declined (or traded for whatever) is Hanson. Delgado or Teheran can yield the same results as the #5 at a fraction of the cost compared to what Hanson will get in arbitration.
Lemke's Knuckler
October 15th, 2012
5:18 pm
I think a two-year deal makes sense, if the Braves can get the per year value down to about $6m or thereabouts. That would give the Braves another $3-4m to play with for 2013 and a little security for 2014 if some of these kids falter or get hurt. But I would not commit to Huddy past 2014. He’ll be 38 going on 39 and I have a feeling his back will give out before he’s 40.
jj
October 15th, 2012
5:18 pm
This is a no brainer..Hudson was the best on staff and (my sons favorite player). Where you gone get a 16 game winner for $9 Million?
Plus look what he does for Childrens funds and Atlanta. The man is perfect example for Braves character and other players.
Lemke's Knuckler
October 15th, 2012
5:23 pm
Heisenburg…”If they decline option then he becomes free agent. That would be dumb. Pick it up, then talk about years 2-3.”
I think what DOB is talking about is the Braves signing Hudson to an extension INSTEAD of picking up the 2013 option. I don’t think there’s any doubt he’s coming back to Atl for 2013. But by signing him to an extension, they could probably pay him a little less than $9m next year to give Wren some more flexibility. The Braves would never in a million years just decline the option without having a new contract in place first.
jj
October 15th, 2012
5:24 pm
Remarkable- I didn’t read your remarks before posting..
Heisenberg- I agree on Hanson..trade to Royals for one of their good outfielders.
Thanks DOB for some news..keep it coming.
Heisenberg
October 15th, 2012
5:29 pm
Lemke’s Knuckler, that was in response to Kevin at 5:05 pm.
Clark Howard
October 15th, 2012
5:31 pm
thru 2014; not one more year !
Trader Jack
October 15th, 2012
5:32 pm
TRADE HANSEN !
TRADE UGGLA !
TRADE MCCANN !
jj
October 15th, 2012
5:35 pm
Clark Howard..But you didn’t build it!
marty
October 15th, 2012
5:42 pm
yes,tear up contract an re- sign him for 3 years an also need him for pitch hitting as with two on an two out win or go home game , Medlin batting bottom fivth we save the pitch hitters for next year!!!
the truth...
October 15th, 2012
5:42 pm
I think that what is the standard and what Huddy is saying is that he would love to talk about a contract extension, which can be revising the option year into a two or more year deal….might be a nice way for him to wind down his career…
1eyedJack
October 15th, 2012
5:43 pm
Bargain.
Trader Jack
October 15th, 2012
5:47 pm
Trade Hansen for a top catching or 3B prospect !
Accept ANYTHING you can get for Uggla & McCann !
the truth...
October 15th, 2012
5:57 pm
I’m bettng Huddy would love to try this out and play a little ourfield and pitch in the same game…
Two pitchers in the game swapping out the mound to different batters:
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20110608112029AAdFEiw
bulldogbubba
October 15th, 2012
6:00 pm
Cut his starts down and innings pitched and HE may stay strong to the end of next season.With the potential of a strong pitching staff for 2013 we could modify all starting pitchers to give us more depth next year. Well it looks good on paper!!!
Rick C
October 15th, 2012
6:03 pm
Trader Jack, they are not going to get a top prospect for Hanson right now. His value has gone way down.
Canton Dawg
October 15th, 2012
6:05 pm
@Lemke I agree, couple years, affordable contract but I suppose that depends on Huddy and how long he feels he can pitch effectively. Don’t decline the option without being ready to ink the contract.
@Trader Jack McCann is in an option year, doubtful they’d pick up the option just to trade him. Hansen is Arb eligible and we’re probably not going to find anyone dumb (or desperate) enough to pick up Uggs. Besides, you never know, Uggs was a terror in Miami, he could bounce back and park 30-35 next year and we’ll all love him.
I said on another blog: I think Hansen was hurt worse than the Braves were willing to let on during that car crash in the spring. I’m not sure you give up on a guy like that without giving him at least half a year to prove he’s healthy and on track.
bring back blauser
October 15th, 2012
6:07 pm
bring back huddy, let him finish here
Reality
October 15th, 2012
6:15 pm
With Chipper gone and pressure mounting on Dan Uggla to produce, I fully expect attendance to be down next season by 30%
hmmmmm...........
October 15th, 2012
6:29 pm
I think Tommy Hanson has been hanging out with the Red Sox pitchers eating KFC and drinking beer. I think the Braves should hire him a personal trainer and go from there. But i still think they should shop him and Uggs too. I’d resign Huddy too, he seems willing to take a hometown discount and he’s on the back end of his career.
single white dove
October 15th, 2012
6:58 pm
Huddy is a gamer, SIGN HIM!
Murph
October 15th, 2012
7:03 pm
See if he really wants to stay,two year 10 million dollar deal no more.Performance based of course.
the truth...
October 15th, 2012
7:25 pm
@Murph
You don’t give much incentive to Huddy at tht price……….considering the consensus of opinion is that the Braves pickup his option for $9 mil…….and you think he should add a year at $1 mil?
Jay Dubu
October 15th, 2012
7:32 pm
Option pick up is a done deal. That will put him @ 38 going into 2014…Beyond that Braves have to look at the youngsters coming behind him and decide, “is the juice worth the squeeze”.
Jay Dubu
October 15th, 2012
7:36 pm
The Braves have some very talented young players that the fans will come out to see in Heyward, Freeman, Simmons, Medlen, Kimbrel, et al.
They have to add players that will hustle. Chipper’s last at bat, for which the umps gave him a hit, when the most it should have been was an error, showed that he’d already given up.
Matter of fact, when he tipped his cap in the batters’ box, that said this is my last at bat.
Homer of A-town sports
October 15th, 2012
7:36 pm
Huddy is 9M. but minus the 1M to buy him out and it is going to cost the Braves 8M because they would spend 1M to let him go. That is a steal. Bring him back.
VinceVanGo
October 15th, 2012
7:41 pm
For whatever reason I have always believed that Frank Wren reads the fan/blogs. Why? Because a good G.M. will realize that not all the fan/bloggers are idiots and some may actually have some decent insight worth reading. So here’s how I negotiate with Hudson. I pick up the 2013 $9 Million option and count my blessings. Then I offer a two year extension as such. A $8 Million contract with innings incentives that can take the contract to $9 Million for 2014, and a $7 Million contract with innings incentives that can take the contract to $9 Million for 2015. That gets him to 40 and probably finishes his career with the Braves. If He can have a send off year in 2015 like Chipper and everyone will be happy. If Atlanta knew all that the Hudson Family Foundation has done for people around Atlanta they would know that his value is worth way more than pitching alone. Do It Frank!
Jay Dubu
October 15th, 2012
7:45 pm
Either the Cards or the Giants are poised for their 2nd trip to the World Series in three years.
Most likey the Cards, which will mean that the NL Champ over the past 3 years has been courtesy of the Braves.
jim
October 15th, 2012
7:51 pm
The Braves should bring back Hudson, but this move should not be considered to make Delgado expendable. They can pick up the option on Maholm and try to trade him at the deadline when Beachy is ready to assume a spot in the rotation. The Braves rotation for next year should be Medlen, Hudson,k Minor, Delgado, and Maholm for the first half season, and let Beachy replace Maholm in the second half or consider a 6-man rotation in the second half. Medlen, Minor, and Delgado have never pitched more than about 130 innings in a season, Beachy is returning from Tommy John, and Hudson will be 37-38 and could probably benefit from a lighter work load. These people who are calling for the team to tradee Delgado haven’t really watched him pitch with a critical eye. He is a keeper.
jim
October 15th, 2012
7:57 pm
With the Cards and Tigers leading their respective series, if that continues, the two teams with the worst records entering the playoffs will meet in the WS.
the truth...
October 15th, 2012
7:59 pm
@VinceVanGo
So you really think old Frank looks at the blogs to get some advice on how to negotiate multi million dollar contracts?????
Please tell us what you’ve been smoking over there?
the truth...
October 15th, 2012
8:04 pm
@jim
I like how you put out that starting rotation for 2013 with no Hanson mentioned at all….I’m hoping you’ve come up with a solution to get him traded or otherwise disposed of to make that rotation doable without any 2nd guessing among the brass…..
Maybe VinceVanGo can get the message to Wren on how to slip Hanson out the back door and install your rotation.
I like it….
Homer of A-town sports
October 15th, 2012
8:09 pm
It is dangerous to trade Teheran or Delgado. The one we trade would end up being another Wainwright. I really want to not have to put them on the trade market.
jim
October 15th, 2012
8:15 pm
The people on the last blog clammoring for Frank Wren to “not go cheap” during the off season might consider the cost of going expensive:
1. The Angels landed Pujols and C. J. Wilson during the off season and ;picked up[ Greinke at the deadline, but did not make the playoffs (even with an MVP type performance in most years from a rookie).
2. The Red Sox spent big on Carl Crawford, Gonzalez, and the former Angels ace whose name I am blocking and finished in a race with Toronto for the cellar.
3. The Dodgers picked up the Red Sox under achievers plus Hanley Ramirez and fell farther out of the race — no playoffs.
4. The Yankees have the “best team money can buy” but (barely edged out the O’s and hopefully)are crashing in the playoffs. Plus they have 5 more years of ARod on the books plus CC, Tex, and now Jeter whose abiloity to remain at SS is put in question by this injury.
5. The Marlins loaded up with big names during the last offseason, and unloaded players at the deadline
6. Big free agent signings such as Jason Bay, Heath Bell, Derek Lowe, Werth, Dice K, have been nothing but money drains on their franchises The Uggla trade brought the Braves a big right hand bat and excited the fan-base until we saw the result.
Teheran is the one piece that could bring back some value — but make it another young affordable player with a lot of upside like Mostakas or Olt.
Buttermilk Tuesdays
October 15th, 2012
8:22 pm
@marty: It’s “pinch hitter,” not “pitch.”
jim
October 15th, 2012
8:27 pm
Truth,
Hanson should still have some trade value. He is still relatively cheap and has been a double digit winner for each of the years in the rotation. He won’t bring the return he would have 2 years ago, but he could bring back a useful player for the bench or a decent prospect. Teheran and Delgado have been either at AAA or up and down between Atlanta and Gwinnet for two years. At some point you have to either make room for them and bring them up or traded them. I believe Delgado is a keeper and needs to be in the rotation wheras Teheran could be traded for the right return. Now if I had a solution for moving Uggla without costing us a big chunk of his salary that would be worth a nice reward from our friends at Liberty.
jim
October 15th, 2012
8:34 pm
Homer,
I don’t want to put either one of them on the market either, but if you don’t, who else do you have to trade that will bring back any kind of a return? If one of them is not traded, then what do you do with them? They can’t stay in AAA for ever and they have been there two years already. You have to decide this year whether to put them in the rotation or get some return from them. Room for one should be made in the rotation and that should be Delgado — he has the best chance of developing into a “Wainwright”
least of the east
October 15th, 2012
8:45 pm
Hudson is a gamer as was said earlier. he is a dedicated player who puts team play and community service ahead of just making money. I would definitely want him in 2013 for $9 mill and also for longer. however, at his age and medical history, it has to be 1 year at a time.
Hanson’s value decreases with each passing year. I would see what they can get for him before he implodes like Jurgens.
Delgado is ready and maybe Teheran isn’t far behind.
Wren has said their budget isn’t a problem, but he is not being honest. why then would they look to sign 2 guys at a lower rate than 1 player of higher quality. this implies they can’t afford a high quality guy and a 2 nd lower tier free agent. he should either be in politics or a used car salesman.
Abnerish
October 15th, 2012
8:48 pm
sign Huddy for 2 years for a per year figure less than the one year option. I can’t imagine he’d expect anything more. Maholm is a no brainer and McCann should be given the benefit of the doubt that he can recover from his injuries. However, I would not sign McCann to an extension until he proves that he can once again be the McCann of old. My fear is that he has aged a lot quicker than normal through wear & tear and injuries. I am hopeful that he will make a complete comeback.
knockerhomerx
October 15th, 2012
8:51 pm
Let our prospects with power arms matriculate into our rotation. Let our farm system supply fresh young players to all positions. Only way to control payroll. Sorry no way l sign Brian McCann’s option, l do sign Maholm, Huddy is a coin flip. No long term contracts, ‘Braves keep losing on long term deals. We had to wait years to clear payroll from terrible players. Braves have a great chance at a fresh start. Please Mr. Wrenn do not blow it. Give Bethancourt a chance to learn ropes. Give our young pitchers a chance also. Sign 2 power hitters, who can also hit 300+. Let the farm produce. Freeman, Heyward, Minor, Medlen, Kimbrel. Pluck gems from others, O’Flaherty, Ross, Janish. Oh l forgot our SS Andrelton Simmons. Power Pitching, Power Bats mixed with great 300+ hitters, Speed, Outfield Assist Arms. Go Braves
keeping it real
October 15th, 2012
9:00 pm
Hanson should not be brought back. Just painful to watch his downward spiral since coming up as a rookie and throwing 94-96. It doesn’t matter what he costs, he just isn’t good enough to be the 5th starter on a playoff caliber team.
Ken Stallings
October 15th, 2012
9:48 pm
Hudson is a great deal at $9 million. But, beyond the club option for 2013, the Braves are reaching a point where Hudson may not be in their plans beyond 2013. If Hudson wants to finish his career as a Brave (a career likely to end in three or so years), then he could accept an extension at the $9 million a year mark and it might be a good move.
But, the Braves have a lot of starting pitching talent at AA and AAA who need to be given a chance in the next few years. Anything more than $9 million a year might be better spent on securing the better offense that the Braves certainly need.
RBI
October 15th, 2012
9:51 pm
Keep Hudson. Dump Maholm and McCann.
Pat
October 15th, 2012
10:18 pm
Please let me know your thoughts…
Elimination of Rule 6.10(Designated Hitter Rule); Introduction of Rule 3.03(x)
Rule 3.03(x) Substitution of Pitcher in Batting Order
A team may substitute a player for the team’s pitcher in the team’s batting order twice in the first nine innings of a game, and once in extra innings if the game’s play is extended, without requirement of the pitcher’s removal from the game. The team must notify the umpire-in-chief of a substitution under this Rule at the time of the substitution… The umpire-in-chief shall inform the opposing manager of a substitution under this Rule at the time of notification. The substituted player shall not re-enter the game as provided for in Rule 3.03.
Comments
If a team fails to notify an umpire-in-chief at the time of a substitution that a player was to be substituted under this Rule, a player was not substituted under this Rule, and the pitcher shall not re-enter the game as provided for in Rule 3.03.
PROS
Most significantly, the new rule provides for uniformity of rules in both the American and National leagues, eliminating considerations and problems associated with interleague play, realignment, etc.
The new rule requires the pitcher to bat, and also provides for additional offense (pre-1973) most baseball officials and executives and fans require.
The decision to substitute a hitter for the pitcher is not necessarily an automatic one: it comes at the cost of a bench player and the loss of an opportunity to to perform such a substitution in subsequent innings.
The rule change preserves and perhaps enhances overall strategical and tactical elements of a “National League” brand of baseball, and arguably makes a manager’s job on balance more challenging. In effect, if and when both teams have utilized their two opportunities to substitute a player for the spot in the batting order occupied by the pitcher, the game becomes a “National League” game.
The rule change is certainly a less substantial change to Major League Baseball than 6.10, or the introduction of the designated hitter rule in 1973.
Example:
In a 0-0 game in the third inning, does a manager substitute a batter for the pitcher’s spot in the batting order with runners on first and second with two out in what is expected to be a close pitching contest and a low-scoring game, at the expense of a bench player and the opportunity to perform such a substitution under the Rule (without removal of the pitcher) in later innings? With two outs and one runner on? With two outs and no runners on? What is the composition of the bench? What is the composition of the bullpen?
Does a manager necessarily bat a pitcher ninth in virtually every game with such a rule in place?
CONS
Elimination of the Designated Hitter rule would probably have to be implemented in the long term (e.g. 5 years.), but 6.10 should not be maintained because of any opposition by the Players’ Association in the short term.
Same old
October 15th, 2012
11:26 pm
Too bad that JJ, TH, JT, RD and JV all flamed out. Better sign the old man
reckingball
October 16th, 2012
12:22 am
I think that the Braves should pick up Hudson’s option for next season.
And then in 2014, move Hudson into the announcer’s booth, and let him replace Joe Simpson.
Because as I understand it, Joe is embarassed by the Braves fans.
reckingball
October 16th, 2012
12:24 am
add a r to that embarassed
mexican brave
October 16th, 2012
12:33 am
I don’t blame Joe Simpson at all
Homer of A-town sports
October 16th, 2012
12:39 am
JIM,
I am hoping FA market works. I am guessing Wren has 12 to max 20M to work with. Not sure if that is enough to do it. I do know for a fact the only players that other teams will have interest in are Delgado and Teheran. I have no clue what fans are thinking when they think we can trade Uggla or Hanson. Maybe a little interest in Hanson but the Braves would not get anything in return. I would hate to even think how much of Uggla’s contract the Braves would have to eat if he was traded. I just think about when the Braves signed Mad Dog instead of Bonds. Bobby Cox said “You can never have enough good pitching.”
Supes
October 16th, 2012
1:26 am
They should sign him to a 2 year deal with a team option for a 3rd this winter…Huddy’s been good since he got here from Oakland, I’d like to see hm retire as a Brave.
Tommy Hanson has pitched his out of Atlanta alongside Jair Jurrjens, both SHOULD be pitching elsewhere in 2013.
I realize we shouldn’t expect much of Beachy in 2013, but you still got Delgado and Teheran to fill that last spot.
1.Hudson
2.Medlen
3.Maholm
4.Minor
5.Delgado/Teheran
That’s solid until Beachy returns to the rotation later in the 2013 season.
the truth...
October 16th, 2012
1:41 am
Problem with Uggla is……..well it’s Uggla…..
He’s like the Little Leaguer that hits his first home run and from that point on all he thinks the game is about is hittng the next one.
Uggla…..go talk to Hank of the 714 hr record (screw you Barry Bonds you cheated) and ask him about line drives….then get your butt in the cages and work on hitting line drives…..
Do that Uggla and you will most likely hit just as many home runs and also hit for average and become valuable to the team……….
Right now you’re just a freak with oversized biceps…..got to swing down not up…………
waltbellamy
October 16th, 2012
2:15 am
Exercising the option for next year at $9 million is a no brainer. An extension at this point is beyond stupid. Hudson has earned his money to this point. There is no reason to overpay Grandpa for well compensated past performance
knockahomerx
October 16th, 2012
2:56 am
Sorry Tim, nothing personal just business. Braves need to get return on investment from young guns on the farm.
Hawk
October 16th, 2012
5:51 am
Come on…. it is extremely doubtful if anyone here is qualified to talk salaries. Especially the many who seem to be adolesents.
Dead Weight
October 16th, 2012
7:42 am
Trader Jack, YOU CAN SAY, THAT AGAIN. And fire Fredi G.
Roy Gibbs
October 16th, 2012
7:48 am
DOB – When will the complete Spring Training Schedule be released?
dcb
October 16th, 2012
7:54 am
Sure we’d like Hudson back. But when is enough enough? These 30+++ year old ten million dollar plus guys are simply a bad investment. And isn’t it a shame that we have to think of it that way? I’m still smarting from the way we treat Smoltz and Glavine like gods when they both turned their back on the Club and fans who stayed with them through thick and thin – especially Smoltz who back then when negotiations for both he and Glavine didn’t go the way he wanted them to, badmouthed the Braves at every turn.
dcb
October 16th, 2012
7:54 am
Sure we’d like Hudson back. But when is enough enough? These 30+++ year old ten million dollar plus guys are simply a bad investment. And isn’t it a shame that we have to think of it that way? I’m still smarting from the way we treat Smoltz and Glavine like gods when they both turned their back on the Club and fans who stayed with them through thick and thin – especially Smoltz who back then when negotiations for both he and Glavine didn’t go the way he wanted them to, badmouthed the Braves at every turn.
dcb
October 16th, 2012
7:54 am
Sure we’d like Hudson back. But when is enough enough? These 30+++ year old ten million dollar plus guys are simply a bad investment. And isn’t it a shame that we have to think of it that way? I’m still smarting from the way we treat Smoltz and Glavine like gods when they both turned their back on the Club and fans who stayed with them through thick and thin – especially Smoltz who back then when negotiations for both he and Glavine didn’t go the way he wanted them to, badmouthed the Braves at every turn.
dcb
October 16th, 2012
7:54 am
Sure we’d like Hudson back. But when is enough enough? These 30+++ year old ten million dollar plus guys are simply a bad investment. And isn’t it a shame that we have to think of it that way? I’m still smarting from the way we treat Smoltz and Glavine like gods when they both turned their back on the Club and fans who stayed with them through thick and thin – especially Smoltz who back then when negotiations for both he and Glavine didn’t go the way he wanted them to, badmouthed the Braves at every turn.
dcb
October 16th, 2012
7:54 am
Sure we’d like Hudson back. But when is enough enough? These 30+++ year old ten million dollar plus guys are simply a bad investment. And isn’t it a shame that we have to think of it that way? I’m still smarting from the way we treat Smoltz and Glavine like gods when they both turned their back on the Club and fans who stayed with them through thick and thin – especially Smoltz who back then when negotiations for both he and Glavine didn’t go the way he wanted them to, badmouthed the Braves at every turn.
dcb
October 16th, 2012
7:54 am
Sure we’d like Hudson back. But when is enough enough? These 30+++ year old ten million dollar plus guys are simply a bad investment. And isn’t it a shame that we have to think of it that way? I’m still smarting from the way we treat Smoltz and Glavine like gods when they both turned their back on the Club and fans who stayed with them through thick and thin – especially Smoltz who back then when negotiations for both he and Glavine didn’t go the way he wanted them to, badmouthed the Braves at every turn.
Let's Go
October 16th, 2012
7:54 am
Really paying 9 mil for a 37 year old pitcher is risky but after the way he pitched last year and considering all the youth this team has I guess it’s worth it but after this season I can’t see it since it sounds like he’s thinking about a multi year deal. If nothing else you can offer him arbitration at the end of next season and maybe have him accept it for 1 more additional year but if the Braves are thinking about a multi year deal for a pitcher go after Brandon McCarthy or Zack Greinke this year and lock up the next veteran starter for the next 5 or 6 years.
Oldham
October 16th, 2012
8:22 am
For what he has been $9 million is right on. I think he will remain affordable because of his age … unless the Yankees want to make some crazy offer.
MikeY
October 16th, 2012
8:36 am
Y’all are not going to like it too much, but a trade I could see would be: Hanson and JJ for Alfonso Soriano, with the Cubs picking up about $18M of the $36M he is owed for 2013 and 2014. He did hit 32 HRs and had 108 RBIs in 2012.
Such a deal would be about salary-neutral for the Braves for 2013, and below salary-neutral for 2014. And it would leave a lot of money for a top CF, back-up C (Ross, I hope), a couple of backup OF’s or CI’s, and maybe a reliever or two.
Barkley
October 16th, 2012
8:55 am
Why is it that the Braves go out and get bigger name players through the years like Uggla, Tex, Sheffield, McLouth, etc and they never produce when it matters most. But teams like the Cards, Giants, Orioles, etc can pick up scrubs and no-names like Scutaroo, Descalso, etc and they find a way to rise to the occassion. Why do our scrubs and newbies like Simmons never rise up?? This was a very good team that just could not take the pressure. I’m telling you all that it cannot possibly be a product of bad luck or circumstance. our team, with all of its failrues is a reflection of its leader, which is mercifully finally gone. Can’t wait to see who steps up to lead the team now..hopefullly someone with fire like Pendelton used to be when he led a team of misfits and has-beens to greatness. Maybe not a WS championship but took them much much farther than they should have ever gone. Then we got the listless, care-not Chipper and well the rest is history. he got his one and was good.
the truth...
October 16th, 2012
8:59 am
@MikeY
Everyone in baseball knows JJ will be non tendered this winter (maybe sooner) so why is anyone going to include him in a trade…so you’re saying Theo is going to fork over anything for Soriano? I doubt it though certainly he would like to get the Soriano albatross from around the neck of the Cubs.
PEPr
October 16th, 2012
9:36 am
This is a no brainer. Option plus 2-year extension. The two sides can work out the money. There have been many pitchers who have performed well into their 40s. Injuries are what they are; they happen to young and old alike in this game. Thanks.
Kevin
October 16th, 2012
9:54 am
TRADE UGGLA? TRADE UGGLA? WHAT?
Some people seriously don’t understand sports. Or business. You can’t very well TRADE somebody that NOBODY ELSE WANTS? What idiot GM would trade for $15+ Million per year Uggla? Wren couldn’t GIVE Uggla and his contract to anybody, much less get something in return for him.
reckingball
October 16th, 2012
9:55 am
mexican @12:33am………well good for you.
reckingball
October 16th, 2012
9:57 am
I think that he could.
St. Louis Cardinals -World Champions
October 16th, 2012
9:59 am
FRANK WREN FOR GM OF THE YEAR !
GIVE FREDI AN EXTENSION ! UGGLA & MCCANN TOO !
Homer of A-town sports
October 16th, 2012
10:03 am
Kevin,
It drives me crazy when ppl say trade Uggla. Braves would have to eat almost all his contract.
It drives me crazy when ppl say extend Huddy’s contract. Pick up his option for this year but no rush for anything after that. He just said he wants to be here.
It drives me crazy when ppl say trade Hanson for a 30 plus Hr hitter. Hanson does not have much trade value.
It drives me crazy when ppl say trade JJ. The Braves would have to then go through Arb. with JJ first in order to have him signed and right now he will be non tendered. I wonder why ppl don’t take a few min. to look up and research before the make crazy comments.
David O'Brien
October 16th, 2012
10:10 am
Homer of A-town sports: Thanks for being a voice of reason at 1o:03 a.m. Some very good points that you’d think were obvious, but clearly aren’t to some here.
shelbydawkins
October 16th, 2012
10:48 am
I like Hudson a lot – great pitcher. Too bad his career has been wasted with the Braves…
AGTFan
October 16th, 2012
10:53 am
I say picking up the option is a no-brainer. I would go with an extension as well if the price is right. Huddy offers more than his ability on the mound.
Heisenberg
October 16th, 2012
10:54 am
It drives me crazy when ppl say trade Uggla. Braves would have to eat almost all his contract.
Well at this point the Yankees may be willing swap the contracts of Uggla & ARod. LOL As if that would be an improvement.
It drives me crazy when ppl say trade Hanson for a 30 plus Hr hitter. Hanson does not have much trade value
I am on the record as both Hanson & JJJ should be non-tendered if no one is willing to give up a lower level prospect for either of them.
David O'Brien
October 16th, 2012
11:02 am
I like Hudson a lot – great pitcher. Too bad his career has been wasted with the Braves… — shelbydawkins
And apparently it’s a shame your fandom has been “wasted” on the Braves, judging from the tone of disappointment in your comment. That, or a shame you inexplicably waste your time commenting about a team you don’t like in a newspaper blog that’s centered around coverage of that team?
Tony
October 16th, 2012
11:12 am
Don’t forget Beachy!
Long time fan
October 16th, 2012
11:12 am
Two year deal for Huddy works for me. Pick up the option on Maholm and then we concentrate on taking care of Prado and Bourn.
Atlanta Braves Links of the Day For October 16, 2012 | Atlanta Braves Dugout Online | Atlanta Braves Blog
October 16th, 2012
11:12 am
[...] Hudson hopes for extension, wants to finish as Brave [...]
Lee in S GA
October 16th, 2012
11:18 am
I say pick up his option and try to extend a 2 year deal beyond that. I am not sold on all these young Braves pitchers becoming cy young candiates any time soon and probably never. They need Huddy.
shelbydawkins
October 16th, 2012
11:37 am
Didn’t say I disliked the Braves. I put in a lot of emotion over the years. I do consider myself a fan. This last choke was just a bit too much to take. That’s all. But I really do like Hudson.
don
October 16th, 2012
11:58 am
Resign him, The Braves need a veteran presence.
southgabrave
October 16th, 2012
12:00 pm
Anyone notice those players that are coming through for other teams are not those big boppers? They are those gritty type players that grind it out everyday. They are those scrappy, get dirty , do the little thing type players that hustle every play. I remember before the deadline calling for the Braves to get Scutaro or a player like him. Yes sometimes you have a Mr. October, but how many of them are they and how many everyday, scrappy players are there that come through? Look at St. Louis, they have the same type players year after year. When it came time to sign their own big name what did they do? Let him go and keep on clicking. They do the little things and do them the right way!
The Braves dont need a big time HR hitter in LF or 3B. They need a good glove, good average (285+) hitter that has a good OBP, that doesnt strikeout a lot. Players that puts the ball in play and doesnt try to hit a 3R Hr everytime at bat. A guy that moves runners along and doesnt pop up witha big upper cut everytime a runner is in scoring position. I will take a Freeman and Heyward, hitting 3&4 with the likes of Span, Prado, Simmons, Reed Johnson type players to fill my line-up. Scutaro and David Freese type gutty players. Give me 10 guys LIKE those and you keep the Tex’s and such players Give me defensive, speed, OBP and batting average of the gutty players that can handle a bat over HR hitter any day.
That is why the Cards are in the series consistantly! Look back over the past 4 decades, they are in the playoffs 2-3 times every decade. Look at the type teams they have. A little power with good solid players and pitching plus defense.
coach13
October 16th, 2012
12:00 pm
Teheran, Delgado, and Viscaino were untouchable a year or 2 ago. Now the Braves are willing to possibly trade all of them? How can their scouting department be that bad? That’s 3 pitchers who were among the top prospects in baseball and now they aren’t sure if any of them will pan out?
McCann could miss 4-5? Seriously? Starting when? And that is a good investment? The Braves cannot rely on Hanson at this point. If you are going to pitch him in the 5th spot why not let Teheran come up and figure it out. He’s not getting any better in AAA. AAA guys are almost harder to get out than major league hitters. They swing at the close pitches that a major league hitter would take (trying to get over the hump to the big club).
At this point they either need to pitch Delgado/Teheran in the Bigs or get rid of them while their value might still be high.
pdt
October 16th, 2012
12:05 pm
Hudson is a good pitcher, but he’s not a great one. He has not been the ace we hoped for. Sometimes he’s brilliant, but he’s inconsistent. And that ultimately means he’s not reliable. Sign him for one more season to be the elder for the youngsters coming up. But after another year of seasoning they will be fine without him.
Brave New World
October 16th, 2012
12:20 pm
I would like to see the Braves give Hudson a 3 year deal (2 years plus a club option for a third). Hudson is a winner, plain and simple. GO BRAVES!
BravesFanSince80s
October 16th, 2012
12:20 pm
@pdt: how many MLB teams this year didn’t have a single starter win 16 games? Huddy has pitched pretty damn good for us and deserves to finish out a Brave if he is reasonable in his contract request, period….
southgabrave
October 16th, 2012
12:21 pm
BTW, Uggla doesnt have a place on my team. Yes he is gritty, but average to below average defense, His average is wayyyyy too low and he strikes out too much. I also think McCann will make a comeback next year. Ross is the perfect compliment to B Mac.
The Braves have a very nice pen with a good to very good potential istarting rotation in Medlen, Hudson, Minor, Moholm, Beachy, Delgado, Gilmartin and Teheran. No Hanson is not part of it. Build around that pitching with defense and timely hitting, just like the Braves of the early-mid 90’s. Use the pitching that we can not use to obtain the type players we need. NO not bangers, smashers, boppers, just good players.
Ebenezer Snerdberg
October 16th, 2012
12:25 pm
TIMMER IS THE ANCHOR OF THE STAFF. BRING HIM BACK NOW!
Fragile Bob Horner
October 16th, 2012
12:42 pm
Hudson has to be brought back. He is a veteran starter with a great record….still induces tons of ground balls. Hanson should be shopped and traded for anything of value, whether that be a bench guy, a prospect or two or another bullpen guy. We need Delgao in the rotation, the kid is going to turn into a heck of a starter, great stuff and still learning. Teheran should be used for middle to long relief with an occasional spot start until he learns more command. You have to sign McCann’s option, you can’t use Betancourt yet, he has no bat at all. Ross should be used more to spell McCann to keep McCann fresh and Ross hot. Can’t trade Uggla either…. the contract he has doesn’t make it viable….coach him to be a hitter and not a slugger, if he doesn’t committ to that, he should be the most expensive pinch hitter in the game.
Bigwheel
October 16th, 2012
12:42 pm
Lets be real, We need Hudson. Not just next year, but 2014 and so.. We all know that Julio didn’t take any steps forward this year, which is a shame because he does have talent, somewhere. The real trouble is Randall D’s line in 2012. Numbers smell of the same Julio is cooking (ERA+ 92, 1.414 WHIP, 4.1 BB/9)
Chippermania
October 16th, 2012
1:17 pm
I am still peeved about the greedy MLB owners making the Wild Card a 1-game playoff. The Braves deserved at least a best of 3 series.
Anyway, Huddy is not only still a very good pitcher, but he is also a great influence on the clubhouse and community (he is up for the Roberto Clemente award). Sign him to pitch now, and when he wears out the arm make him a pitching coach.
BTW, DOB suggested last week the Braves trade for Josh Willingham to play left. The Twins need pitching BAD, so the Braves could make a megadeal to included Hanson and either Maholm, Delgado, or Teheran. Maybe we could get Ben Revere in the deal to play CF. His stats are not bad and he had 40 SB, and he is MUCH cheaper than MB will be.
St. Louis Cardinals -World Champions
October 16th, 2012
1:37 pm
Once we win another championship, Frank Wren will be given an honorary ring. Thanks to the Braves’ ineptness, WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS !
ChipperisGod
October 16th, 2012
1:44 pm
I agree with Chippermania, been saying it for weeks. However, they’re far more likely to give us just Willingham. Doubt they’d want to part with a possible emerging star like Revere. Although it’s possible.
I wish Hanson was non tendered, but it appears he will return. JJ def needs to be non tendered.
Get Huddy back, had a great year and even though he was a little inconsistent down the stretch, his presence is fantastic for the young guys and more importantly he’s still a bulldog. He’ll go out and get at least 12 wins a year, and he might have had 20 had he not been injured this year.
I wish they’d not get the option and possibly restructure his contract for two years for 10 million in total. Don’t know if that’s possible, but that’d be more ideal. Not sure Tim would take that, but he might, especially if he wants to end it here.
Ralph
October 16th, 2012
1:57 pm
I realize that Hanson doesn’t have much trade value, however, something is better than nothing which is what his value will be by mid season besides we don’t need him. Get what you can get and don’t pick up McCann’s option, a complete waste of $12million.
M10
October 16th, 2012
2:05 pm
In my opinion the braves need to make a significant move this offseason.I agree which was earlier stated attendance will be down next year.The braves need to pick up Huddys option and maybe a 2 year deal with a team option for the 2 year.Let Maholm walk and maybe save sm cash and give Delgado or Teheran a shot.Don’t know about anyone else but I’ve given up on Hanson something has to give.Maybe let Bourn walk and get Pagan or Upton and go after D.Wright if he hits the market or J.Hamilton.
DaleMurphy4HOF
October 16th, 2012
2:11 pm
DOB, I think we should pick up Maholm’s contract and trade him for minor league pieces. KC is desperate for veteran pitching and has a great farm system. Use the players from that trade along with a piece from Braves system to go after Upton in Arizona. You would still have Hudson, Medlen, Minor, Hansen and Teheran as your starting 5. It’s time for Teheran. He’s spent 2 years at AAA. I’m sure he was bored and little unmotivated after spending another year at AAA which showed up in his numbers. You have Beachy coming back in June or July along with some depth in minors with Spruill and Gilmartin for emergency starts. Malholm is a luxury you can’t afford with this payroll. You can use Delgado to go after Span in Minnesota or Bourjos in LA to fill the CF need. I agree with you. No reason to pay Bourn more than $12m per year.
PDOG
October 16th, 2012
2:36 pm
Picking up Hudson’s option is a no brainer but you don’t go give 37 year old pitchers an extension. Lets see how he does next year and then worry about it. I for one believe that unless he is willing to sign for 4 or 5 million for 2014 the Braves are going to need that money to pay there younger guys, Heyward,Freeman,Kimbrell,Minor,Simmons,Prado.
I also think that they should pick up the option on Mahlom and try to trade him and Hanson this winter for either a centerfielder(Cain) of LF or 3B. What the Braves need to acquire with there extra money in the free agent market are some guys that have high OBP. They four guys that should hit 25 or so home runs next year they need to get some guys who get on base and put pressure on the defense, more so if they lose Bourne.
Barkley
October 16th, 2012
2:51 pm
@Southgabrave: that’s basically the same point i made earlier. the problem is that you cant make your team out of those gritty gutsy type players and get through a long season (see, e.g. Tampa). Those guys typicvally ride the coat tails of a strong team and then catch lightening in a bottle for a few weeks under the spotlight–ie, something no brave has ever really been able to do since the mid 90’s–and then fade back into obscurity. That said, getting scutaroo at the deadline wouldve been genius. But maybe getting the guy from the Cubs wouldve looked as smart had he actually gotten a chance to shine in the playoffs. he should’ve been in left in the play-in game, and prado at 2nd. That takes away the one big hit that went over prado’s head in LF (a silly play really) and obviously solves the non-hitting, non-fielding Uggla problem.
Barkley
October 16th, 2012
2:54 pm
PS, as to Uggla, we cant get anything for him on the trade market, so don’t give him the satisfaction of a fresh start somewhere else at the braves expense, where he will likely go back to his normal self, knowing the Braves luck (see, e.g. McLouth). Instead, lay the framework out early: On a week-by-week basis, we expect x number of hits or “on-bases,” and y number of errors, and z number of RBI out of you. If you fall short, you will sit for x number of games before you get another shot. Let’s see how such an approach motivates him to actually put up before contract time comes round again. And certainly the braves could be no worse off under such circumstances.
reckingball
October 16th, 2012
2:58 pm
Homer of A-town sports.@10:03am…………If any or all, of the things that you listed drive you crazy.
Then you must be one crazy son of a gun, that has already driven off the cliff by now, if you read any of these Braves blogs, at all.
go braves, 2013!
the truth...
October 16th, 2012
3:11 pm
@pdt….
do you know anything about basebal? Huddy wond 16 games this season….there were 10 pitchers with more wins than Huddy….
Pretty strong especially considering he missed the first month recuperating from back surgery….
MikeY
October 16th, 2012
3:41 pm
Homer of A-town sports.@10:03am – the Braves could work out a sign and trade deal for JJ. I agree that he is nearly worthless, but a team in dire need of young pitching might take a chance on him…and they do very much want to trade Soriano and his big contract. JJ and Hanson and maybe a prospect for Soriano and $18M. Leaves the Braves with a lot of cash for a CF.
Brock
October 16th, 2012
4:52 pm
I’m an Uggla fan. Maybe the only one these days. The guy has had a great career. Unfortunately for the last 2 years he hasn’t been himself, but I don’t give up on a guy who has hit 30+ HR in every year but one just because he was in a super sized slump. He’ll work hard this off season and will be back focused and ready. You’ll see me on the Uggla bandwagon when you guys want to jump back on next year.
Art
October 16th, 2012
5:06 pm
Well with the face of the Braves gone meaning Chipper has retired then the Braves need a new face. The new face is three fold inlcuding McCann, Freeman and Heyward and they need to be signed to long term deals as they are the hope of winning for the next 10 years.
the truth...
October 16th, 2012
5:39 pm
@MikeY
You are absolutely dreaming……….JJ has ZERO trade value….he WILL be non-tendered and anyone can sign him for nothing if they like.
No one except for you think this can happen….so I guess we should be praying for you to get a GM’s job overnight and make your deal work….
It will never, never, never, never happen……….
reckingball
October 16th, 2012
6:02 pm
I believe that Uggla will have a big year in 2013.
I don’t think that JJ will be offered anything by the Braves, and he will be released.
MikeY
October 16th, 2012
6:30 pm
@the truth…I agree that JJ is nearly worthless. But if the Braves non-tender him, there will be about a dozen teams competing to sign him as a free agent. The Braves can get something for him, whether a low-level prospect or a trade for a player another team wants to be rid of.
And I guess we should be praying that you finally pass sixth grade this year. Good luck, your parents (or, rather, your mother, no one knows who your dad is) will be so proud you finally get out of sixth grade at age 16.
Going, going, gone
October 16th, 2012
6:30 pm
@Pat,
As for a replacement of the Designated Hitter rule, how about this … it combines the best of both approaches: 1) the strategy of when to remove the pitcher for a hitter and 2) removes a non-hitting pitcher from the line-up:
Make the designated player tied directly to the pitcher. Designated hitter #1 stays in the game as long as the pitcher #1 stays in the game. When you change the pitcher, you MUST change the designated hitter and vise-versa. A manager would think hard about removing his pitcher if he knew he would also have to replace the DH. It might reverse the strategy, but would actually increase the strategy required by the manager.
What do you think?
MikeY
October 16th, 2012
6:47 pm
@Going, going, gone. How about this for a replacement for the designated hitter rule: The pitcher bats. Baseball is a game played with 9 players. That game they play in the AL is NOT BASEBALL.
the truth...
October 16th, 2012
6:55 pm
Feel sorry for you MikeY………add 50 years and a tour in the Marines before you were a gleam in your daddy’s eye and you’re getting close….
the truth...
October 16th, 2012
7:07 pm
So MikeY …I just read your comment about my Dad………watch your mouth punk……..my Dad was also a Marine…he in WWII and died a great man in February 2008 at 88…. i won’t waste my time dealing with you and your sniveling little mind…………
Folks like you come on this blog and get banned….so stretch your little mind and watch your mouth….
crm300
October 16th, 2012
7:52 pm
Every team in baseball is crying for starting pitching. Picking up the option on Hudson is without question the right thing to do. I think he still has several good years ahead of him. An extension for the right money is also the right thing to do. He gave the Braves a home team discount with his last contract. Some loyalty from the team is deserved. Also, don’t pay Michael Bourn more than 10 million for 5 years. Let him walk if he wants more than that and go after Angel Pagan. Bourn has speed, is good defensively, but he would hit 40 points higher if he would just consistently put the bat on the ball. He thinks he is a home run hitter. We have some of those. We need a lead off man who gets on base and steals 60 bases. Thought that was what we were getting with Bourn.
Let's Go
October 16th, 2012
10:11 pm
It’s funny I remember in 2009 when the Braves called up Kris Medlen BEFORE Tommy Hanson and everyone was screaming bloody murder because Tommy was the next BIG thing and there was no way he wasn’t going to be the ace of the staff for years. Funny how things work out isn’t it?
Charlie Kerfeld
October 17th, 2012
11:50 am
Bring Tim back- he’s a warrior that doesn’t play scared in big games- like most of his teamates.
Posts about The Braves From Other Great Blogs issue #1 | Atlanta Braves Dugout Online | Atlanta Braves Blog
October 17th, 2012
1:37 pm
[...] A specific timetable for McCann’s return will be determined by how more… Hudson hopes for extension, wants to finish as Brave – blogs.ajc.com 10/15/2012 He’s Southern through and through, and Braves pitcher Tim Hudson [...]
Posts about The Braves From Other Great Blogs issue #1 | Atlanta Braves Dugout Online | Atlanta Braves Blog
October 17th, 2012
1:37 pm
[...] A specific timetable for McCann’s return will be determined by how more… Hudson hopes for extension, wants to finish as Brave – blogs.ajc.com 10/15/2012 He’s Southern through and through, and Braves pitcher Tim Hudson [...]
Steve
October 17th, 2012
7:00 pm
The Braves would be crazy to let one of the top pitchers they’ve ever had go somewhere else. His consistency on the mound, veteran leadership in the clubhouse, loyalty and high character make him one of the most valuable players the Braves have on their roster. This guy deserves to be on the team if they do succeed in making a run at the World Series in the next couple of seasons.
bostonbravo
October 17th, 2012
10:27 pm
keep Huddy..keep McCann…GIVE Uggla to South Korea or Borneo…just get Uggla outta here. He’s “our” A-Rod with 5% the talent.
phoenix
October 18th, 2012
8:10 am
I’m an advocate of keeping Hudson if possible. At least the guy stays in shape, unlike the Hinskes and McCanns who gain weight during the season, and then wonder why they get winded running to first base.
Teddy B
October 18th, 2012
5:45 pm
I think they’ll pick up Huddy’s option, maybe Maholm’s, and McCann I’m 50/50 on that one due to all his injuries the past few years.
Huddy is still going strong, pick up his option this year and see if he can stay healthy while we see how he does next year and go from there. At some point we’re going to have to make room for Teheran and maybe Delgado. Plus we have the pitchers we drafted 2010-2012 coming up so we need to figure out who’s staying and who’s going.
Hanson can go, he’s never really impressed me much and he’s all hype. His stuff is already declining and he gets poked for many runs every time he starts. Forget him. I hope they trade him, for who it doesn’t matter. Just let him go ASAP.
We need to start figuring out how we are going to keep our younger superstars like Jason Heyward, Freddie Freeman, Medlen, and Kimbrel. These guys are good I don’t want to see them playing for the Yankees anytime soon. Don’t spend the money we need to sign them to long extensions on aging washed up guys who may end up like JJ and contribute nothing.
Laughing out Loud
October 18th, 2012
7:44 pm
In blogdom a voice of reason is rare! It is mostly voices of negative opinion. Braves will do just fine and will be in the mix of the penant race next year! No need to fall on the sword drama queens!
Laughing out Loud
October 18th, 2012
7:47 pm
Frank Wren knows the value of a veteran/youth mixture to “our team” the Braves! It’s his livelihood, not any of ours. You think it’s more important to him? Maybe????
hebrews11
October 19th, 2012
11:43 am
I love Huddy but I’d trade him for an outfielder. The Braves have lots of young pitching.
LawDawg
October 19th, 2012
12:19 pm
I genuinely hope that he can finish his career here, particularly since he gave us a hometown discount last time.
Larry30
October 19th, 2012
10:46 pm
Time to wrap Hudson up. Pay him and keep him. The guy is a gamer, eats innings, and the team wins when he pitches. I know where we could get at least $12 million to put toward a new deal……
Chief Knock a da homer fan
October 20th, 2012
12:58 pm
Hudson is consistent and very tough competitor. Keep him. We need a few RBI men but wonder if Uggla will drop a few popeye muscles and come back strong next year.
ron
October 20th, 2012
4:09 pm
Huddie needs to finish up in Yankee pinstripes.
Carl Farvman
October 20th, 2012
6:00 pm
If he comes back can we agree to not call him Huddy?
Disgusted
October 20th, 2012
10:46 pm
Hudson has been more of a Braves legend than people give him credit for. He has been a great Brave during a so so period in Braves history.
Well, he was here one yr (2005) of the good old days.
He has been a rock of consistency during this period of mediocrity. I hope our corporate friends in Colorado do not go cheap with him, I think he will stay if ownership does not disrespect him.
I would not be surprised to see him pitch till he is 42 or 43 yrs old and still be effective.
Disgusted
October 20th, 2012
10:52 pm
Seems like most are disgusted with Homer Hanson and understandably so.
He was overhyped and disappointing players who do not turn out to be what they are cracked up to be get the ire of fans of the team — that goes for any city.
74bravesjersey
October 21st, 2012
9:48 am
AMEN! DOB,AMEN!
Dwayne
October 21st, 2012
10:27 am
Beachy return next year?
Beachy
Medlin
Huddy
Minor
That s a pretty solid 1 thru 4..(order of players not intended to say Beachy is the Ace)
KYBravos' fan
October 22nd, 2012
3:41 pm
Pick up the option or sign him for a few more years. His career winning percentage is one of the best all-time. His experience would also be invaluable to our up and coming young pitchers. It’s a no-brainer. Plus, as productive as he is–he WANTS to be a Brave! I can’t even believe the option part of this is even being discussed. “Discussed” between him and the club–sure. But to us fans, he has to be signed for the above reasons. End of OUR discussion, almost. We have to have Tim Hudson.
Von Trapp
October 23rd, 2012
7:02 pm
I agrees with das Carl. Don’t call das Hudson Huddy anymores. Ve are not all relatives of das Honey Boo Hoo in Georgias. No offens e to das Boo Hoo,but das Huddy is goofy to call him.
Marty
October 25th, 2012
12:21 pm
Dear Braves –
Please make Tim Hudson Happy. He deserves it. He is just about as loyal as a player gets these days, and i think we can all agree, he has been a bargain since he arived in the city.
Jesse
October 30th, 2012
5:38 am
Trade Teheran while his value is still high enough to get a solid return. Maybe for a player like Jacoby Ellsbury (who can lead off and play cf). Keep Delgado, and pick up the option on Huddy. 16 game winner for 9 mill is a bargain. Unfortunately we are stuck with Uggla unless we can find a team willing to take on the majority of his ridiculous salary (which is unlikely). As for Mccann, I think we should pick up the option and hope for a speedy recovery and a bounce back year.