Braves sign Laird as backup catcher (updated)
The Braves hope that catcher Gerald Laird keeps a personal streak alive by playing in a third consecutive World Series in 2013.
Five days after losing backup catcher David Ross to the Red Sox, the Braves replaced him with free agent Laird, who played for 2012 AL champion Detroit and 2011 World Series champion St. Louis.
Laird, who turned 33 on Tuesday, got a two-year, $3 million deal that includes incentives worth up to $750,000 based on number of games started.
The right-handed hitter made $1 million in 2012, when he had his best season in four years. He hit .282 with two home runs, a .337 on-base percentage and .374 slugging percentage in 191 plate appearances, and excelled during a June stretch when Tigers catcher Alex Avila was hurt.
That was an important factor for the Braves, who will need Laird to play on a regular basis in April as starting catcher Brian McCann continues his rehabilitation from Oct. 16 shoulder surgery. McCann faces an expected six-month recovery and could miss most or all of the season’s first month, though the Braves hope it’s closer to two weeks.
“Gerald gives us a proven major league veteran behind the plate,” Braves general manager Frank Wren said. “He was high on our list of off-season goals and we are fortunate to acquire a catcher with his level of experience, not only in the regular season, but also in the postseason.”
Laird could earn up to a $250,000 in bonuses in 2013 and up to $500,000 in 2014 based on starts. He would get bonuses of $50,000 each for starting 80, 90, 100, 110 and 120 games in 2013, and $100,000 each for meeting those standards in 2014.
The Braves wanted to re-sign Ross, but Boston lured him away with a two-year, $6.2 million contract, nearly doubling the 36-year-old veteran’s salary from his four seasons in Atlanta. He played on consecutive two-year contracts with the Braves, who were only willing to go one year this time due to his age.
Ross agreed to terms with the Red Sox on Saturday and the deal was announced Wednesday after he passed a physical.
In Laird, the Braves believe they signed the best all-around replacement among available veteran backups. During an 11-game stretch June 8-20, he made 10 starts and hit .306 (11-for-36) with a .375 OBP, and the Tigers were 7-3 in his 10 starts during that period. He also started six out of 12 games in a September stretch in the pennant race, hitting .364.
Laird wrote on his Twitter page: Thanks for the ride Detroit! Will miss you all, excited to start a new journey in Atlanta.”
Laird played in two games in each of the Tigers’ three postseason series this year and went a combined 1-for-20 at the plate. Detroit was swept by San Francisco in the World Series.
The California native has thrown out 27 percent of runners attempting to steal over the past three seasons and 35 percent for his career, but Laird’s success rate in 2012 slipped to 19.2 percent (10-for-42).
A .244 career hitter with a .303 OBP, he has 37 homers and 215 RBIs in 698 games over 10 seasons with Texas, St. Louis and Detroit. After playing his first six seasons with the Rangers, Laird spent two years with the Tigers and one with the Cardinals before returning to Detroit on a one-year, $1 million contract.
Laird has played more than 95 games only twice in his career – 125 in 2007 and 135 in 2009. He hit .224 with career-highs nine homers and 47 RBIs in 448 plate appearances in 2007, and hit .225 with two homers and a .306 OBP in a career-high 413 plate appearances in 2009. Laird also threw out 40 of 99 runners attempting to steal in ‘09.
In his only season in the National League, he hit .232 with one homer and 12 RBIs in 37 games for the Cardinals in 2011, and played in four postseason games (0-for-1).
His career righty/lefty batting splits are fairly even — .255 with a .718 OPS and 14 homers in 691 at-bats vs. lefty-handers; .239 with a .638 OPS and 24 homers in 1581 ABs vs. righties. But in 2012, he hit .204 (20-for-98) against lefties and .382 (29-for-76) vs. right-handers.
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283 comments Add your comment
Wee Willie Keeler
November 15th, 2012
12:47 pm
good pickup
TheOnlyBravesFan
November 15th, 2012
12:49 pm
Love it.
David from Athens, Alabama
November 15th, 2012
12:52 pm
Thanks David.
Lee in S GA
November 15th, 2012
1:01 pm
yep ….this is a good signing
Homer the Brave
November 15th, 2012
1:04 pm
I guess Corky Miller wasn’t available.
Fan
November 15th, 2012
1:05 pm
Dave: Have you looked my email on the Braves, pitching, and bench???
Brave New World
November 15th, 2012
1:08 pm
Good signing! GO BRAVES!
Chris from the Rock
November 15th, 2012
1:18 pm
Good signing. Class act and solid backup catcher.
keeping it real
November 15th, 2012
1:25 pm
Really don’t mean to be negative, but he throws out 19 % of runners and he didn’t even have Tommy Hanson to bring his numbers down. Little disappointed, but as a Braves fan, I’m used to it.
bvillebaron
November 15th, 2012
1:28 pm
Keeping it real:
Sort of disapppointed that you let 8 other guys post before bringing your negavity to this blog. Am I missing something or was Laird signed to be the BACKUP catcher?
Sleeze
November 15th, 2012
1:30 pm
And, Mr. Keeping It Real, what available back-up catcher would you have liked for them to get? His numbers and experience were really better than any other “back-up” catcher out there, and the Braves certainly weren’t goping to get a starting caliber catcher to back up McCann for most of the year.
No. 1 Braves Fan
November 15th, 2012
1:31 pm
One need filled. Can we hope for a power hitting right-hand OF next?Or maybe a replacement for Bourn?
HillbillyEfrim
November 15th, 2012
1:32 pm
Not exactly Johnny Bench but Braves got him for calling games I guess. They didnt get him for his hitting or throwing I hope?
Hankie Aron
November 15th, 2012
1:32 pm
Good move. A solid veteran catcher to hold down the job until McCann is back.
Jbailz23
November 15th, 2012
1:40 pm
Man so disappointed they didn’t sign Yadi as a backup!!!! Note roll of eyes. People! He’s a backup! Best available backup out there! We weren’t gonna get Russell Martin to backup Mac. This is a good signing and if its a sign that we are going after the best out there I’m excited to see what the next couple months hold.
JHarber
November 15th, 2012
1:44 pm
very good pickup for Braves, Keep the ball rolling Frank. Thanks DOB
HillbillyEfrim
November 15th, 2012
1:44 pm
Look for Braves to resign M.Diaz for LF and Otis Nixon for CF next.
HillbillyEfrim
November 15th, 2012
1:47 pm
Should have signed A. J. Pierzynski and let McCant walk…
JHarber
November 15th, 2012
1:49 pm
Awful pickup. Go with Bethancourt.
Ralph
November 15th, 2012
1:56 pm
bvillebaron
Am I missing something or was Laird signed to be the BACKUP catcher?
Do games in which back up catcher play count in the standings?
Buddy Landel
November 15th, 2012
1:56 pm
JHarber- I can understand “a little disappointed”, but awful??? Awful would be if we’d re-signed Jean Boscan (that’s what he was called when he was a Macon Brave). Laird is what he is: a solid backup catcher. No more, no less.
ALJ
November 15th, 2012
1:57 pm
For everyone saying that this is a good signing. Do you know who would have been a better signing? David Ross.
Ralph
November 15th, 2012
1:59 pm
Ross was the best possible signing out there!
Hankie Aron
November 15th, 2012
2:00 pm
JHarber- Bethancourt is not mlb ready yet. This is a good pickup (Laird).
HillbillyEfrim- So let McCann walk out and not get anything for him? They could trade him if they weren’t in contention at the All Star break or get a 1st round draft pick for him next year if he leaves for another team. McCann would be expected to round back into his normal stats. It’s a good thing Frank Wren doesn’t read blog posts like yours.
Ralph
November 15th, 2012
2:01 pm
Let’s wait and see how much he cost.
Coach D
November 15th, 2012
2:01 pm
Could we get Giancarlo (Mike) Stanton from Miami for 2 or 3 minor league starting pitchers??? haha!!!!
Hankie Aron
November 15th, 2012
2:02 pm
Folks for the last time- Ross was great but he got more money for 2 years than he made in 4 with the Braves. The Braves have bigger needs to worry about than backup catcher which will require more money. I love Ross as much as you but the contract was too much for a backup catch. Come on folks!
Hankie Aron
November 15th, 2012
2:05 pm
If Bethancourt is ready after next season to take over as starting catcher then we get a nice draft pick for McCann walking out as a free agent and we have Bethancourt ready to go.
Ralph
November 15th, 2012
2:05 pm
Hankie Aron
November 15th, 2012
2:02 pm
Folks for the last time
————————————–
Was that a promise?
Hankie Aron
November 15th, 2012
2:06 pm
I’m under the belief that McCann will rebound next year when healthy with respectable offensive numbers again.
Hankie Aron
November 15th, 2012
2:08 pm
Yes. It’s been documented heavily on here about Ross. Folks are just not paying attention. Would 1 of those folks be you Ralphy Mae?
Ralph
November 15th, 2012
2:10 pm
There you go Hankie bo, you’ve broken your promise already, shame shame.
ChillyMutt
November 15th, 2012
2:11 pm
Meh
Matty Ice Diaz
November 15th, 2012
2:14 pm
I used to put on a catchers mitt and toss the ball with relievers. Call me.
yall are dumb
November 15th, 2012
2:14 pm
I wonder what it would take for everyone to come on here and say “man that was a good pick up” the does everyone just see what happened in Miami? We are not looking to sign an all star team (especially at back up catcher) we have talent on the team, so lets complement that talent with some solid players
georgiadad
November 15th, 2012
2:15 pm
The Marlins are cleaning house. Shipped 2 starting pitchers (and Reyes) out to Toronto. The only real “star” left in Miami is Giancarlo Stanton. He’s a monster home run-hitting outfielder. (Did I mention he’s a right-handed hitter?)
The Marlins are collecting young pitching prospects. The Braves really need a slugging outfielder, particularly one who hits from the right side. Stanton is a 23-year-old budding star with substantial power.
Would it be at all possible for Wren to offer a couple hot young pitching prospects and maybe an outfielder to the Marlins for Stanton?
Put Stanton in left. Move Prado to third. Get a quality centerfielder. I think the Braves would be hard to beat.
Wes Jorga
November 15th, 2012
2:15 pm
Nice recovery on Wren’s part!
Amber Girl
November 15th, 2012
2:20 pm
Good pick-up. Got to give Wren credit. He finally did something right. Now trade for Span and sign a LF then we will be OK. I HOPE!
Mike S.
November 15th, 2012
2:21 pm
This is as good as you can expect for replacing David Ross.
Max b
November 15th, 2012
2:22 pm
Good pickup no problem here!
No Flag Since Lemke
November 15th, 2012
2:26 pm
Good signing – although disappointing to some posters who wanted to sign Buster Posey or Yadir Molina as our back-up.
Yuuup
November 15th, 2012
2:27 pm
Not the clubhouse presence Ross is, not the defensive catcher Ross is, and not as solid offensively as Ross is. So the Braves did it again, they regressed at a time of need.
David O'Brien
November 15th, 2012
2:31 pm
Not the clubhouse presence Ross is, not the defensive catcher Ross is, and not as solid offensively as Ross is. So the Braves did it again, they regressed at a time of need. — Yuuup
Let’s see, they lost the best backup catcher in baseball and one of the finest clubhouse presences in baseball. And you didn’t think they’d regress? Who did you think they’s get as Ross’s replacement who wouldn’t be a step down as backup catcher?
Yuuup
November 15th, 2012
2:35 pm
People, this is not just about a backup catcher. This is about losing a clubhouse leader, a very sound defensive catcher, and a guy that taught pitchers a great deal. When a team has a starter like McCann who has all kinds of issues physically, and goes into massive slumps, you need a backup who is as close to starting caliber as possible. Ross was just that, Laird is not. If the guy was only be counted on to catch 20 games a year, then fine, but Laird will have to do that in the first month of the season. Everyone will see that next year.
Ron
November 15th, 2012
2:36 pm
This signing makes most sense since obviously the Braves did not want to sign Ross to a 2 year contract. The Braves want Bethancourt to be the next catcher in 2014. Laird will be here for one season and then Bethancourt will be the man. You got Laird cheaply and will do nicely this season. More money for other needs!
a fan
November 15th, 2012
2:39 pm
Yuuup you make me throw up,bet laird cost less then half of what Ross got.
Yuuup
November 15th, 2012
2:39 pm
DOB,
So you are saying that the Braves couldn’t do better than Laird by either free agency or trade? I have a very hard time believing that.
Ralph
November 15th, 2012
2:45 pm
I’m more concerned about the No 1 catcher than I am about the No 2.
Fols
November 15th, 2012
2:51 pm
The problem isn’t the back-up catcher…it’s the fact that the back-up catcher will be the every day starting catcher on this team.
Mac may never see another healthy season. Laird will have a great opportunity here to work with great pitchers and he’ll have plenty of playing time.
Matty Ice Diaz
November 15th, 2012
2:54 pm
All your worries are over if you sign me. I will shutdown left field defensively then Otis can cover CF (between rehab visits). We got Laird’ s big bat until Big Mac returns. Reminds me somehow of my days in Pittsburgh…
Yuuup
November 15th, 2012
2:56 pm
A-fan,
He is also half the catcher Ross is. You get what you pay for. If Laird has to play any significant time next year, which he will, it will be all the people applauding this signing calling for Wren’s head for signing him.
Cody Ross
November 15th, 2012
2:59 pm
I’m flattered you rednecks want me on your team but me & D.Ross gonna be the Ross Boys in beantown. Go Red Sox.
anotherdawg
November 15th, 2012
3:00 pm
GP AB HR AVG RBI OBP
McCann – 121 – 439 – 20 – 230 – 67 – 300
Ross – 62 – 176 – 9 – 256 – 23 – 321
If given the same number of games, Ross numbers are right in there with McCann, and Ross is considered better defensively. McCann was hurt last year, and when healthy, is the better stick. I don’t know if the Braves had the option to match the Red Sox offer, but, to me, it would have made sense to, especially with McCann coming back from injury. If McCann is worth 12 mil, then Ross is certainly worth 6. Pitchers and catchers are probably two of the most important positions out there, and Ross would have been an effective pinch hitter also. I don’t have a problem with the Braves unwilling to mortgage the farm, like in Bourns case, but theres a big difference in paying 30 mil and 6 mil. I hate to sound negative, and maybe Laird was a good pick-up as far as damage control, but I still see this as a step backward. All in all, with David’s team first attitude, and everything else he brought to the table, this was a big loss.
jbill
November 15th, 2012
3:04 pm
The best on the list of FA’s for the money…Gerald will do a good job, is he Ross? no but he has two WS rings..that speaks good for him.
We moving Forward..Go Braves.
Poleesemenses
November 15th, 2012
3:09 pm
Laird and McCann, then two days of rai-an.
GaryinBham
November 15th, 2012
3:10 pm
I like this one plenty. He’s an above average pickup for the need.
Mark (another one)
November 15th, 2012
3:10 pm
The most important stats for catchers are the stats for the pitchers when the catcher is calling the game. Laird’s strenght is supposed to be his defense, which is a lot more cerebral than most fans give credit. A veteran catcher who can work with the staff and become a behind the scenes leader on the team is what we need from Laird.
I loved Ross and we’ll miss him. The contract he was offered was a once in his lifetime opportunity and I will root for him as one of the good guys. However, the Braves needed to move on an acquire a backup catcher with strong defense. Laird’s strengths are in working with pitchers and calling games. This is a good signing.
GaryinBham
November 15th, 2012
3:11 pm
I like this one plenty. He’s an above average pickup for the need. Further, the heavy experience at the front end of the season will help later.
a fan
November 15th, 2012
3:11 pm
Yuuup by his own admission Ross said “I’m not a starting catcher. B’Macs surgery is the only reason
any one would even care about a back up catcher who plays 35-40 games a year.
GaryinBham
November 15th, 2012
3:15 pm
Further, there might be a chance for Bethancourt (or Gattis!) to get a little ML playing time. And I especially like his experience in post-season.
AJC FANTASY GM
November 15th, 2012
3:26 pm
Ok, I would have alrady re-signed Michael Bourn and then signed Josh Hamilton to play LF and added Zach Greinke as a starter.Next I would’ve traded Tommy Hanson and Dan Uggla to Tampa for David Price and Evan Longoria. That eliminates Uggla’s big contract and allows us to play Prado at 2B and replace Chipper with an all-star. Now I would solve the backup catcher issue by trading Hudson, Maholm, whoever our AAA catcher is and Jose Costanza to SF for Lincecum, Matt Cain and Buster Posey. That would give us a rotation of Price, Cain, Greinke, Lincecum and Medlen (Minor to the bullpeen) and a lineup of C- Posey 1B-Freeman 2b-Prado SS-Simmons 3B-Longoria LF-Hamilton CF-Bourn RF-Heyward. Now on Freeman’s days off we can start either Posey or McCann and we would now have the best backup catcher and first baseman in baseball. Wren is stupid and I am great. BOOM GOES THE DYNAMITE!!!! Championship…
what you eat for breakfast?
November 15th, 2012
3:29 pm
Why do I feel like were in for a raul mondise type of year
Trader Jack
November 15th, 2012
3:32 pm
“Laird has played more than 95 games twice in his career – 125 in 2007 and 135 in 2009. He hit .224 with career-highs nine homers and 47 RBIs in 448 plate appearances in ’07, and hit .225 with two homers and a .306 OBP in a career-high 413 plate appearances in ’09.”
McCann had better be healthy !
AJC FANTASY GM
November 15th, 2012
3:43 pm
Seriously people, it is the backup catcher. Raul Mondesi was signed and expected to replace Gary Sheffield for the entire season. Besides, Laird started in the World Series for Detroit. I am sure he is good enough to start for one month and then backup McCann.
BravesFanInBama
November 15th, 2012
3:43 pm
For those of you that are saying Bethancourt isn’t ready….Wasn’t Simmons also labeled as “not ready”?
The signing is okay, but for 2 years? Does that mean Bethancourt is still 2 years away?
BravesFanInBama
November 15th, 2012
3:47 pm
Also, for those of you that are saying that he is “only a backup catcher”….Did you all not watch the Braves the past 2 years?
McCann has had a LOT of injuries! If you think he will come out this year and not have ONE setback after a major shoulder surgery, you are crazy. Also, this guy is guaranteed to play at least every 5th or 6th day (Isn’t that how Mac/Ross have always done it?) Stop saying that it’s okay his numbers aren’t great, or that he can’t throw someone out because he is “just a back up catcher”.
Still worries me that he will be our starter for the first few weeks (Pending rehab, could be longer).
Does this means that Bethancourt will be his backup to start the year? What happens if Bethancourt shines? Does he get sent back down because this guy has a 2 year contract?
Nerdville
November 15th, 2012
3:52 pm
okay, so laird is now our backup catcher. can we now get some offense?
Brown
November 15th, 2012
3:52 pm
Wow – where is the negativity coming from? Backup catcher problem solved in under a week. I hated to lose Ross, but he’s gone, and we’re not going to do much better. More time, energy and money (extra $2 mil) can now be devoted to acquiring a quality outfield.
Tim
November 15th, 2012
3:54 pm
Laird is an ok backup. I was hoping for Miguel Olivo.
Joe Nuxall
November 15th, 2012
3:54 pm
I sincerely hope he does well. He seemed to be the best pick available. But doesn’t it seem odd that we now have two chubby catchers?
Brown
November 15th, 2012
3:58 pm
BravesFanin Bama,
You’re being very ‘unDude’
tmc
November 15th, 2012
3:59 pm
Let’s see how much money it cost the Braves to sign this guy.
Cause if it was for 1.5 mil or more than i hate the move. Anything less than i at least understand that they didn’t want to give D. Ross 1.5 or 1.6 more…
This isn’t about 3.1 million a year. This is about the difference of D. Ross’ 3.1 million and whatever they paid this guy. Since they both signed 2 year deals.
BravesFanInBama
November 15th, 2012
4:03 pm
Though it seems like it, I’m really not trying to be negative. I just really hate that the Braves always “coddle” their young talent in the minors.
P'cola Brave
November 15th, 2012
4:03 pm
The Braves weren’t going to spend 3 million on a back up catcher when their are other holes to fill including 2 starting spots in the lineup plus at least three bench spots not including the bullpen arm they usually sign. Laird at 1.5 is a good deal. Probably the next best backup aside from Ross.
rob
November 15th, 2012
4:06 pm
Good signing for a back-up catcher. Would have loved to see them keep Ross, but a team with a $95 million payroll can only tie-up so much money at the catcher position.
P'cola Brave
November 15th, 2012
4:07 pm
And for those that think hes terrible, hes found a way on teams that have been in the world series the last two years. He started about every other game in the last few weeks for the Tigers. Is he David Ross? No, but hes about the next best option. And who knows at 36 how Ross would continue to hold up anyway. Pretty good move by Wren to move quickly and acquire a solid catcher.
jbill
November 15th, 2012
4:07 pm
Hot Stove said Gerald was not only a good back up that calls a good game but was a fun blast in the clubhouse and fired up guy. Also that as long as Mac was out GL would do fine.
Ross said Red Sox went after him hard and said he would split time with starter ever who that would be.
Sam
November 15th, 2012
4:16 pm
Far from a star, but who would you expect to sign as a backup?
Now we need to focus on completing the Justin Upton deal we’re secretly working on with D-backs.
jbill
November 15th, 2012
4:21 pm
Texas stops talks with D-Backs on J Upton…said they wouldn’t give up SS.. Now its Wren time…
least of the east
November 15th, 2012
4:24 pm
Laird is about as good as there is left out there as a backup catcher. I guess since he’s 3 yrs younger than Ross, a 2 yr deal for him is okay for the Braves . of course, the fact that he’s cheaper is the main thing.
Boscan signed elsewhere also so the Braves had to get moving.
Laird may be the bigest signing this off season. Bourn isn’t coming back and some of the other OFs cost money.
Rick C
November 15th, 2012
4:25 pm
BravesFanInBama, there were questions about Simmons’ offense sure, but he was showing progress. He won the batting title in high A in 2011 with a 311/351/408 line, and hit 293/372/420 in AA before being called up. Bethancourt only hit 243/275/291 in an injury shortened AA season this year. His career OBP in the minors is under 300. Their situations are really not that comparable.
KD
November 15th, 2012
4:27 pm
Yuuup, I TOTALLY agree with you, ALL these bloggers think this is a great pick up, are you kidding me. I predict this will be the first of many screw-ups by Frank Wren before the season starts and when he is interviewed will say he thinks this is the best team that possibly could have been assembled. Everyone think about something…how many times did Ross come through with a timely hit.. think about it till spring training comes around. Frank Wren WILL NOT sign any one this year that will help the Braves, you can count on it !!!!!
Rick C
November 15th, 2012
4:27 pm
anotherdawg, teams like the Braves with a mid-market payroll simply cannot afford to pay a back up catcher $3MM. Especially when their starter is making $12MM.
Rick C
November 15th, 2012
4:29 pm
“So you are saying that the Braves couldn’t do better than Laird by either free agency or trade? I have a very hard time believing that.”
If you think there is someone they should have gone after, then name them. Otherwise, you have no argument here.
Amber Girl
November 15th, 2012
4:32 pm
That was a step forward for Wren. Now do I have to hold his hand to keep going. That was step 1. 3 more to go. Don’t drag your feet.
David O'Brien
November 15th, 2012
4:36 pm
DOB,
So you are saying that the Braves couldn’t do better than Laird by either free agency or trade? I have a very hard time believing that. — Yuup
OK, then who’d you have in mind. As a backup, mind you. Not a $5-6 million catcher who’s penciled in for regular or platoon duties. A backup.
JNick
November 15th, 2012
4:44 pm
Kelly Shoppach was my #1 choice, but Laird is a solid pickup. The more I read about them both, the more I’m liking Laird – Shoppach seems like he might be clubhouse drama, after his escapades in Boston with Bobby Valentine…plus, he strikes out a LOT.
steve brown
November 15th, 2012
4:45 pm
Utterly disgusting and shameful that the Braves only offered Ross a one year contract. I have about had my fill of these owners and executive management, they just aren’t made of championship stuff.
coondawg69
November 15th, 2012
4:46 pm
As a Tiger’s fan…… I can say, he can catch. Not a hitter and extremely little power, but he can call a solid game
Denny Lemaster
November 15th, 2012
4:58 pm
Man, couldn’t we have got Biff Pocaroba (spell I know), Bob “great seats” Uecker, Bob Oliver, Joe Torre. Were all of those guys signed yet? At least Torre could hit.
single white dove
November 15th, 2012
5:01 pm
WE ARE GONNA WIN IT ALL!!!! WE HAVE Gerald Laird ! HURRAH!
Rafael
November 15th, 2012
5:05 pm
“Homer The Brave”… the might as well have signed “Corky Miller” comment… RIGHT ON BROTHER!!!
“Backup catcher….??????!!!!!” Let’s not talk like politicians… Laird may be the STARTING catcher for TWO+ months. Laird is CLOSER talent wise to Henry Blanco (of the Bronx). Laird WILL NOT make anyone forget about Buster Posey. ANOTHER SURE OUT in the Brave’s lineup.
As long as Wren and Liberty CHEAPIA are signing Gerald Laird, why NOT bring Fredi’s nephew Matt “Double Play” Diaz back. ?????????????
Yes, the same Matt Diaz (and I QUOTE the AJC) “managed to keep his sense of humor despite the Braves 2011 Playoff collaspe.” Real funny stuff Matt.
Matt Diaz, “he rakes lefthanders you know.” YES… 10 years ago!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! and that “gold glove defense… NOT, more like Mr. Clank with the glove.
Matt Diaz however IS DESCRIBED by one of Frank Wren’s favorite terms… AFFORDABLE!!!!!!
Gerald Laird???!!!! THANK YOU Frank Wren and Liberty CHEAPIA. Another bargain-basement move.
lefty fielder
November 15th, 2012
5:12 pm
Yuup . . . you’re on the clock
Brovathusiast
November 15th, 2012
5:16 pm
His nickname is G-Money. C’mon people… G-Money! No backup catcher out there with a better nickname. Big Mac and G-Money yall! Seriously though, would much rather have G-Money than Ross if it’s the difference in signing an impact bat in LF or a good CF. Just gotta take care of that second part now…
Trader Jack
November 15th, 2012
5:17 pm
.244 career average;
Why don’t Braves ever go after players that can hit above .270 ?
Curt
November 15th, 2012
5:19 pm
This is a decent signing for little money. The Braves had to go into the year with a known quantity at catcher and that’s what they have now. Either Gattis or Bethancourt will probably also make the squad and split time with Laird.
Jay Dubu
November 15th, 2012
5:19 pm
Why did the Braves only want Ross for one year, but plan to sign Liard for 2 years?
Did they think Ross only had 1 year left in him?
Oh…all of you that love this pick-up now, you’re not allowed to hate it next season.
Casual Observer
November 15th, 2012
5:19 pm
Prado, LF
Simmons, SS
Heyward, RF
Freeman, 1B
McCann, C
Uggla, 2B
Diaz, LF
Francisco, 3B
CF Schafer
Does this lineup strike fear in the hearts of NL pitchers ?
freebird13
November 15th, 2012
5:19 pm
Playing in Turner Field & bigger Nat. parks,can he duplicate his power numbers?
Jay Dubu
November 15th, 2012
5:23 pm
Enough of this yard sale shopping. Fire the person(s) that brokered the Braves TV Deal, and get on to spending money like Ted Turner were still in the Big Chair.
single white dove
November 15th, 2012
5:24 pm
DOB, This guy sounds like a real doucher, even for a backup. We had it made with Ross as backup….
Amber Girl
November 15th, 2012
5:27 pm
Ok Wren eat your cookie and comb your pretty hair, and keep going. Don’t stop or they will be all gone.
kingdaddy
November 15th, 2012
5:30 pm
We were spoiled having David & Mac. Laird will be fine. Now let’s get busy with LF /CF. Try not to be so impatient…
Ray
November 15th, 2012
5:32 pm
We’re talking about a back up. A back up. Ross was a back up and not a starter. A back up. Laird fills the position nicely. Not as good as Ross but again we are still talking about a back up. (In my best Allen Iverson voice)
kingdaddy
November 15th, 2012
5:35 pm
We all want to see the impact trade. The Braves are sitting pretty, give wren credit for last year and realize with two big moves, WE WILL TURN THAT CORNER! If you are a Bravo fan,,,, have faith. So many teams wish they were us…
longtimefan
November 15th, 2012
5:36 pm
I realize this is a blog and everyone is obviously entitled to their opinion. But, If they think they know more than a very good MLB GM whose full time job it is to put together a ML baseball roster-then you/they are delusional. FW is privy to all kinds of information about player availability, financial considerations, future deals etc that the average fan is unaware of. The expectations of some on this blog are unreasonable. They expect every free agent signing or trade to work perfectly and for all the prospects to pan out. It doesn’t work that way. Look at the NY Mets unloading Jason Bay-they took a bath. Look at A Rods contact-talk about an albatross! The major leagues are full of player signings that went south for any number of reasons. The Braves have one player inked to a long term contract-Uggla, for three more years. They are in a great position to lock up the good young players on the team to long term deals and see which of the young pitchers they want to keep. I have been following the Braves for more than 40 years; the last 20 they have done as good a job as any organization of putting a team on the field with a real chance to win. I think FW has positioned the Braves to have a really good team the next 5 or so years. Those of you getting all worked up over not resigning a 36 year old back up catcher aren’t seeing the big picture.
kingdaddy
November 15th, 2012
5:38 pm
Amber Girl,
What’s wrong with cookies and I wish I could get my oldest to brush his Mane, he’s 25, lol…
Ray
November 15th, 2012
5:41 pm
@longtime.. you are correct. I often challenge those that say sign this one or sign that one or trade for this player etc. Then I challenge them to play GM and they either change the subject or disappear completely. Easy to make trades and sign a player if there isn’t the OTHER side.
kingdaddy
November 15th, 2012
5:42 pm
LT fan
Great Post…Braves fans need PATIENCE & TRUST IN THE ORG…
longtimefan
November 15th, 2012
5:46 pm
Rafael- I think Matt Diaz has apologized for ignoring you and not signing your baseball 2 years ago. I think you can give it a rest. I doubt he will ever play for the team again. Time to find a new target.
Amber Girl
November 15th, 2012
5:47 pm
@kingdaddy Nothing wrong with cookies. I gave him a cookie for doing a good job. He won the best hair contest at Gm meetings. Just thought he might want to look good. I will give him some hair spray. I will give him a big kiss and hold his hand if he continues to do the right thing. I just don’t want him to stop. They might be all gone. Get a LF, CF, and a solid bench and let’s play ball.
Once again Wren shows......
November 15th, 2012
5:49 pm
Once again Frank Wren shows why he SUCKS as a General Manger…….once again signs a low rent ball player for a no spirit team…..this off season is going to be just as bad as the regular season ended…..a total bust – Only bright spot, we don’t have to look a Gimper Jones goofy smile any more.
Nail in the Road
November 15th, 2012
5:49 pm
Looks like McCann has someone to go to the buffet with now.
Yuuup
November 15th, 2012
5:55 pm
DOB,
How about Koyie Hill, or Rod Barajas? Aren’t they both better defensively than Laird? I could be mistaken on that, but it seems they are both better at throwing out base runners. What about Jose Molina from the Rays? He is pretty sound defensively and probably not costing that much.
Chop Chop
November 15th, 2012
5:57 pm
Regardless of Ross’s price, this is a significant downgrade at the backup catcher spot.
kingdaddy
November 15th, 2012
5:58 pm
AG, For some reason, I feel confident that they can see how close they are to that corner I’m talking about turning. We’re very close. I am ready for spring, lol…
Amber Girl
November 15th, 2012
5:59 pm
@Yuuup Give it up buddy. Wren did good this time. He is the best fit.
Disgusted
November 15th, 2012
6:00 pm
Actually the Braves could have done worse. If they got him in the 1 to 1.2 mil range that is not that bad.
A few yrs ago he was a real shut down defensive catcher and in the past had a high throwing out runners attempting to steal.
Also knows as a good handler of pitchers — saw alot of him in Detroit a few yrs ago.
I don;t know if he will be the catcher he was in 2009, but there were worse options out there.
My first choice was Shoppach but this one will do.
Rick C
November 15th, 2012
6:01 pm
“Why don’t Braves ever go after players that can hit above .270?”
You know how many FA catchers this year have a career avg over 270? Two: Paulino and Pierzynski. And only Paulino is a back up catcher.
“Why did the Braves only want Ross for one year, but plan to sign Liard for 2 years?”
Well for one, Laird is two years younger.
dbbraves
November 15th, 2012
6:01 pm
I think all of the anger is more about fan love for D Ross than anything else. As fans we love the guy. Solid ballplayer, great attitude and funny as hell. He’s become one of our guys. But im sorry, as a 36 year old backup catcher, the amount of money Boston is willing to pay is a lot more than is sensible for the braves to pay with a 95 mil dollar payroll. And enough with this good guy in the clubhouse stuff. Good guys dont win pennants, good players do. And maybe, just maybe with the little extra cash the braves have from not overspending on D Ross, FW can go get a couple of them. Although im not holding my breath.
Amber Girl
November 15th, 2012
6:02 pm
@kingdaddy I think we will be OK. He just needs to finish the job where Yankees, Red Sox or Phillies don’t get them first. DO IT NOW. I will even hold his hand and guide him thru. I hope he is still awake.
Disgusted
November 15th, 2012
6:03 pm
“Regardless of Ross’s price, this is a significant downgrade at the backup catcher spot.”
No one will debate that Chop Chop. Now if they go cheap on replacements for Chipper and Bourn than we will have a real beef.
And I have no love for ownership at all — I think they should pursue Bourn over some of what is out there. Unless they choose not to spend the alleged 25 million.
We will see.
This is not bad – see my above post.
mr baseball
November 15th, 2012
6:20 pm
Congratulations to Tim. The only person to offer up a potentially better option than Laird. Not surprisingly, not a soul who has opined since picked up on it.
Laird can’t hit. Olivo can, at least for a catcher. Not sure about his defense, and he is reputedly a candidate for slowest man in baseball. But he would have given the Braves a power bat when McCann is out of the lineup. Laird is a quality backup on a team that does not rely on its catcher for offense.
There is a large dropoff offensively between McCann & Laird. Wasn’t much with Ross and wouldn’t be that much with Olivo.
And let’s not forget. Braves will need another catcher to back up Laird until McCann returns. Prognosis for return from injury is often wrong, and the Braves need to have some protection in that case. Fortunately, baseball is filled with Corky Miller types.
Game Changer
November 15th, 2012
6:26 pm
Wish this was an april fools joke. Does not matter where the Braves take this future traveling circus if the players are all clowns. Gerald Laird is unwanted by all except Wren. One strikeout every five at bats. PLEASE STOP THE INEPT MANAGEMENT OF THE BRAVES.
Seattle Brave
November 15th, 2012
6:26 pm
For the people who dont understand Baseball Politics and MATH!
1. Ross cost too much for a back up.
2. Laird is a quality back up for the cost.
3. Cant improve that position if Ross was the best.
4. Signing someone cheaper can free up that crucial 2-6 million needed to land that RH Bopper.
5. Plus Wren is just making sure that the players only plays 6 innings every game in a week. This is equal to working 28 hours a week. Reason is to not pay for health inurance. Smart Guy if you ask me.
I would be happy with both Upton brothers here, but not at the price of Simmons or our entire pitching prospects.
Rick James
November 15th, 2012
6:36 pm
Since being purchased by Liberty Media the Braves are no longer in the business of building champions just the business of keeping Atlanta fans entertained and buying tickets.I admire Frank Wren for playing the hands his bosses deal him yet it bothers me that with Derek Lowe and Chipper Jones coming off the payroll the Braves are already out of the running for Michael Bourne.Where will that money go? Somebody please buy this team!! What about David McDavid and and his Time Warner settlement?
Ralph
November 15th, 2012
6:43 pm
DOB
I would have thought about who I was going to get for a back up catcher before I let Ross walk, The games Laird catches count just as much in the standings as the ones that B/Mac catches and with Ross we didn’t miss a step when Ross was in the game. As I see things Wren has taken two steps backward, one step for the loss of Ross’s defense and and a second with the loss of Ross’s offense. Not a good start for the off season.
P Rose
November 15th, 2012
6:43 pm
“Laird played in two games in each of the Tigers’ three postseason series this year and went a combined 1-for-20 at the plate. Detroit was swept by San Francisco in the World Series.”
He’ll fit right in here!
Just kidding, go Braves.
Ralph
November 15th, 2012
6:47 pm
Seattle Brave
Do you know how much Laird cost, I don’t, please tell me.
Ralph
November 15th, 2012
6:49 pm
Seattle Brave
4. Signing someone cheaper can free up that crucial 2-6 million needed to land that RH Bopper
Don’t hold your breath!
Chris
November 15th, 2012
6:51 pm
Was 1 for 20 in the playoffs. Should fit right in.
So Impressive That.......
November 15th, 2012
7:01 pm
Evidently this guy is so impressive(NOT!) , he didn’t even merit a mention on WSB TV’s 6:00 pm News Sportscast……..way to go Pretty Boy Frank for getting another solid underachiever – Wren is an absolute waste as a GM.
Dan Uggla
November 15th, 2012
7:05 pm
“Was 1 for 20 in the playoffs. Should fit right in.” – Chris
That’s not bad at all !
Frank Wren
November 15th, 2012
7:07 pm
“Evidently this guy is so impressive(NOT!) , he didn’t even merit a mention on WSB TV’s 6:00 pm News Sportscast”
Our theme this year is to stay under the radar as much as possible. Let the other teams make a big media splash with trades & free agent signings while we quietly do our work to improve the team..
ugaaccountant
November 15th, 2012
7:09 pm
Between David Ross and Cody Ross for our team needs right now, I’d take David Ross. I just don’t like trusting in an earlier than projected recovery for McCann.
kral
November 15th, 2012
7:17 pm
I have wish..I wish some of you whiney azz complainers..would go to sleep tonight an dream you were a die-hard cub are marlin fan..and wake up in the morning in a cold sweat..and then smile and say whew it was all just a bad dream…Braves fan for 40 years also..you do not know bad times or bad teams..or bad managers.or gm..
Seattle Brave
November 15th, 2012
7:20 pm
@Ralph
Obviously you know what your talking about when comes to DOB articles, I respect that. No I dont know how much he is getting paid, but I can assume its not more than 2 mil a year.
Signing a RH Bopper: Its possible, but is it likely, probably not. The Braves have struck out on the last RH hitters Uggla, Glaus, Tex, and Lee. But who knows with the Upton Brothers, who are young and can be locked up for years to come. Could possibly be the break through the Braves need. Imagine that Outfield of Uptons and Heyward….. That makes me a happy Braves fan after Chipper era. (Which I will always be)
Frank Wren
November 15th, 2012
7:29 pm
Diaz, Schafer & Heyward.
That’s an outfield we can rally around.
Sambo 4 Rambo
November 15th, 2012
7:33 pm
Good pick! Been with good/winning organizations which shows me that he has the ability to conduct a good game. Thats all he needs to do. Having a good hitting catch is just a bonus. Which we have in Mac when healthy. Still biting at the bit to just hear atleast rumors of Bourns, LF or 3B news…
jbill
November 15th, 2012
7:33 pm
Yuup–DOB said under 5 million….those don’t cut it.
Amber Girl
November 15th, 2012
7:40 pm
@jbill I have been complaining about him not doing anything. Give him credit. It might be wrong but at least he did something. Sorry to say buddy but it is my sleepy time, Good nite from New South Wales. Love you guys. Go Braves!!!
Screwball
November 15th, 2012
7:44 pm
In other words, DOB, we should be quiet and praise Wren for a panic response to losing Ross – which must have come like a knee in the crotch to the uber-smug GM. Laird is a solid backup catcher, but losing DR was a big blow. Wren is on the clock – use the Chipper, Lowe, Bourn money wisely. Troy Glaud has had a year plus to rest those knees.
jax dawg
November 15th, 2012
7:47 pm
Enter your comments here
jax dawg
November 15th, 2012
7:49 pm
the more i think about it, the more im ok with us most likely not signing bourn. he’s a great value on the base paths obviously, but his steals were down because his avg. was down and his OBP was down. his home tuns happened mostly in the first half. SIGN DENARD SPAGN! GO BRAVES!
kissstealinwheelindealin
November 15th, 2012
7:59 pm
waste of money…bring up one of the young catchers and let them get their feet wet for the future. This is another Damon Berryhill or Eddie Perez move….zilch impact
Frank Wren
November 15th, 2012
8:18 pm
Span won’t be coming here.
Neither Upton will be coming here.
I’m saving that money for a blockbuster trade in July.
For the time being we’ll go with Prado on 3B, Diaz in LF & Schafer in CF.
Our roster is now complete.
Play ball !
Sam The Swami
November 15th, 2012
8:31 pm
Enough about Liberty Media as an excuse. A $95M payroll is very, very healthy. If you want a bigger payroll, go to more games and spend your money!
This signing is fine. We’re not looking for a back up catcher to put up great numbers. Handle the staff, don’t kill us at the plate…do enough.
We’re all impatient right now for something big. Wren will come through.
Jimiz
November 15th, 2012
8:32 pm
This move was an insurance policy if Gattis doesn’t have a good sping or if they try to use him in LF. He has been a good catcher for a while. I think they will give him a shot as starter until Brian comes back. The Braves want to see him against big league pitching. I am sure he would do a nice job given the chance. His bat would be a welcome site over laird and an upgrade from JC Boscan.
I have been trolling through the free agents and to tell you the truth i dont see anyone that would fit salary and talent wise. We got a couple that will go for big contracts and everyone left isn’t that great. I feel the Braves will make a trade for someone. I see a multiteam multiplayer deal going down and the Braves will probably end up with Justin Upton if we are lucky.
Backup
November 15th, 2012
8:34 pm
Bethancourt still the starter for first month. Other note…..sign BJ Upton!
Not Understanding
November 15th, 2012
8:34 pm
The Braves blew it by not resigning Ross. It’s really that simple. The best backup catcher in baseball who was going to be called on to catch every day early in the season due to the McCann situation.
But hey! 3 mil a year for a backup catcher! Who ever heard of such a ridiculous prospect? Unless of course that backup was David Ross, who is the best and who is going to have to produce like a every day catcher. and do it for a month to 6 weeks of the early season.
The Braves would much rather pay some other under achiever that extra 1.5 mil that Ross got per year from the Sox to walk away from the Braves.
Anyone who generalizes that you can short change the contract on Ross because he is just a “backup catcher” really doesn’t have what it takes to be a decent baseball mind.
It’s about a holistic approach to what a player contributes to a team and the teams’ ability to win. Ross brought much more than what some players who make MUCH more than he made brought to the team’s efforts to win games.
Thats all. I’m just disgusted with the efforts by the Braves to fill out their 95 million payroll by paying too much for UNDER achievers.
Not Understanding
November 15th, 2012
8:40 pm
Bethancourt has proven he has a great arm and that he can’t hit.
He is still nothing more than Jeff Francouer in catching gear. Maybe he’ll be a monster one day but as is the norm, he is being over-hyped by the Braves organization.
Show me you’re Yadier Molina or better before I praise you as he next great Braves prospect.
nadya
November 15th, 2012
8:41 pm
great person to have as a backup catcher
andersja
November 15th, 2012
8:53 pm
Downgrade at catcher. Cheapskates wouldn’t give David 2 years. He’s proven what he can do. Invaluable player to lose.
don
November 15th, 2012
8:56 pm
Dud. Zero added to zero still equals zero.
BravesFan79
November 15th, 2012
9:12 pm
Thanks to D Ross for being a great role model, and good solid player for the Braves! Cant blame the man at all for taking the money before hes 2 old to play.
hit a single
November 15th, 2012
9:16 pm
Catching is the least of our worries. Offense is the concern especially if Uggla continues his inconsisitent ways. We have to improve in situational hitting. The Giants won because of pitching and good situational hitting. Congrats Buster Posey!
Steve
November 15th, 2012
9:18 pm
The reality is that there are ‘better’ options, but most are coming off injuries or would cost significantly more.
As I posted on the blog when we lost Ross, the Braves had to have someone they could count on for the first couple of months as a starter next year. With nagging injuries hitting Ross last year as well as quite a few of the free agents they were far from sure things as 4 out of 5 game starters.
For the money that he will likely get, this is a decent signing. He is definitely a step down from Rossy, but the $2 million or so per year we will save can be spent on positions of greater need.
Long time fan
November 15th, 2012
9:19 pm
The Braves need to get the cash together to either try to resign Bourn or make those big deals. Diaz and Hinske arent coming back. As for Liberty Media, people need to spend bucks at QVC.
Long time fan
November 15th, 2012
9:20 pm
BTW—>How would you like to be a Marlins fan?
Peter
November 15th, 2012
9:30 pm
He’s great as long as our pitchers don’t allow a hit !
Peter
November 15th, 2012
9:31 pm
Or allow a walk…. I forgot to add……. Brilliant, and in the big games he hit 1 – 20 wow he fits right in with our clutch hitting scheme !
Bob the Blogger
November 15th, 2012
9:32 pm
Most of Laird’s defensive numbers are MLB average. His career caught stealing percentage is 35% vs 27% for MLB catchers for the same period. Plus he’s almost 3 years younger than Ross. Offensively, Laird is a little weak, with a career OPS+ of 74. There was no other David Ross out there, and at least we didn’t have to trade for him.
Peter
November 15th, 2012
9:34 pm
BTW—>How would you like to be a Marlins fan?
At least they are making changes…..and by the way they have more World Championships then the Atlanta Braves….. so what makes them so terrible as compared to all those Braves teams that couldn’t win in the big situations ?
Please, No
November 15th, 2012
9:36 pm
Since it appears we won’t get a real leadoff hitter, this would be my ideal lineup:
1. SImmons
2. Prado
3. Heyward
4. Upton
5. Freeman
6. Fellatio Upton
7. (Ugh)la
8. Laird
Peter
November 15th, 2012
9:36 pm
We’re talking about a back up. A back up. Ross was a back up and not a starter. A back up. Laird fills the position nicely. Not as good as Ross but again we are still talking about a back up.
YUP and what is wonderful ………we now have TWO guys who can’t throw a runner out……watch the fast teams kill us with small ball, manufacture runs……. and negate our pitching !
Peter
November 15th, 2012
9:38 pm
Please, No,,,,, Are you kidding me…….. we hare Shafer in center and leading off… We will scare allot of teams this year !
Peter
November 15th, 2012
9:39 pm
He is definitely a step down from Rossy, but the $2 million or so per year we will save can be spent on positions of greater need.
You mean UGGLA ????
Yuuup
November 15th, 2012
9:52 pm
Jbill,
Hill nor Barajas is a 5 million a year catcher anymore.
BraveDan
November 15th, 2012
9:53 pm
OK, then who’d you have in mind. As a backup, mind you. Not a $5-6 million catcher who’s penciled in for regular or platoon duties. A backup.
I AGREE totally!!!!
Dum-Bass
November 15th, 2012
9:59 pm
It’s always amazing at the number of people who say “yeh good pickup”, “great signing”, or “good deal” during the off season when it’s done, and then about two weeks into the season, those same ones are “why did they get him”, “he stinks”, or “dumb move”. Never fails. Braves are great at this very type signing. Mediocrity gets you, well,………mediocrity! SMSASDFSR42013= SAME MANAGER, SAME ATTITUDE, SAME DAMN FANS, SAME RESULTS 4 2013
Rick C
November 15th, 2012
10:05 pm
Not Understanding, generally catcher is not a big offensive position, unlike the OF. And Yadier wasn’t exactly known for his offense until 2011.
Peter
November 15th, 2012
10:09 pm
can’t throw them out catchers we have……
Laird 2011 with Cards .200 % in 2012 with Detroit .192 % thrown out
McCann 2011 .218 % 2012 .240 % thrown out
Ross 2012 with Braves .441% thrown out.. never mind the clutch hitting ! He deserved the money…… but UGGLA has it.
Funny when you read all the folks saying here is the 2013 line up…. Uggla batting 7, or 8th……
WOW.. the guy is going to be our highest paid player ? What the heck….. Gosh WREN is sooooooo smart !
Joe Dirte
November 15th, 2012
10:10 pm
We need to go for it and sign Hamilton. If not just resign Bourn
Peter
November 15th, 2012
10:13 pm
Rick C .. BUT Yadier is the best at stopping the running game…… which is exactly where baseball is today without steroids.
Joe Dirte
November 15th, 2012
10:16 pm
We will see Bethahcourt as the Catcher before the end of 2013 because nobody else will be able to throw out runners
Peter
November 15th, 2012
10:22 pm
Joe Dirte Bourn has an agent we all love to hate and wants way too much for him……. this is a corporate team and a Josh Hamilton will not fit in…….
Remember we have Shafer !
Joe Dirte
November 15th, 2012
10:28 pm
Shafer you mean that little head guy that got busted wth Weed and Roids several times and can hit over .240 and is not that good…..That Shafer
Joe Dirte
November 15th, 2012
10:28 pm
Shafer you mean that little head guy that got busted wth Weed and Roids several times and can hit over .240 and is not that good…..That Shafer
Rick C
November 15th, 2012
10:45 pm
Peter, I’m aware. I was replying to Not Understanding’s comment about Bethancourt being over hyped and contrasting him to Molina. My point was that Molina had not been that strong of an offensive player either until a couple years ago.
Peter
November 15th, 2012
10:55 pm
Joe Dirte. YES that Shafer was just re signed after being released from Houston ! On heck of a pick up….. Gotta love Wren…. he is amazing !
Peter
November 15th, 2012
10:56 pm
Rick C. I do agree with oyu……. Molina was mostly all glove……. and what a glove….
He must be really working hard, because he is well rounded, plus he is not fat like McCann and has some speed for a catcher.
Joe Dirte
November 15th, 2012
11:01 pm
Braves so far are having a terrible offseason so far.
Peter
November 15th, 2012
11:01 pm
Well folks bottom line……… we have two catchers that can easily be run on…….. 80 % success rate.
Good luck to the pitchers now……. If you don’t think they will know this and try to be perfect ???????
Peter
November 15th, 2012
11:02 pm
Braves so far are having a terrible off season so far.
YUP #1 mistake not firing WREN !
He got run out of Baltimore, and landed here……. so what have we done under his tenure ?
Joe Dirte
November 15th, 2012
11:07 pm
The Braves need to trade tommy Hanson also
He gets lit up and cant hold any runners and we have no catchers that can hold them on base.
Use Tommy, Teheran, Salecedo, and Nick Ahmed to get Justin Upton
bostonbravo
November 15th, 2012
11:18 pm
why not Choo Choo Coleman???
Billvillebaron
November 15th, 2012
11:23 pm
Did I miss something or is this November 16th? Did the Braves not spend most of the day meeting with B. J. Upton? Are any of you armchair GMs aware of the fact that this “mediocre” team Wren assembled won 94 games last year and is loaded with young talent, especially pitching? Some of you are clueless, totally clueless.
Joe Dirte
November 15th, 2012
11:38 pm
Are you aware that Chipper Jones is gone and the 40+SB Bourn will give us will be gone as well. Also to assume the Phillies will be as bad as they were this season is shortsided. So yea I think the “Armchairs GMs” do bring up a valid point. Remember that Ross is better than Laird and our bench needs some help. But its ok Billvillebaron AKA lobosolo
Joe Dirte
November 15th, 2012
11:38 pm
Are you aware that Chipper Jones is gone and the 40+SB Bourn will give us will be gone as well. Also to assume the Phillies will be as bad as they were this season is shortsided. So yea I think the “Armchairs GMs” do bring up a valid point. Remember that Ross is better than Laird and our bench needs some help. But its ok Billvillebaron AKA lobosolo
Joe Dirte
November 15th, 2012
11:41 pm
a 94 win team that choked in one game and allowed the Cardnials toadvance just like in 2011
ugaaccountant
November 15th, 2012
11:42 pm
not understanding – Nobody intelligent is trying to hype up Bethancourt as some superstar answer. They are saying he’s got a decent chance to be an everyday player. Not an all-star, not a great hitter, but a good glove. If you saw him in another organization you’d think he’s pretty decent and then move on with your day without thinking much about it.
Just because the hype media will hype him up doesn’t mean much. Remember, not all prospects are created equal. Plus, don’t just read the Braves top 20 prospects. Look at the overall prospect list and see where he ranks in the overall scheme of things.
Chop Chop
November 15th, 2012
11:54 pm
Gerald Laird is a piece of crap. Welcome to Atlanta.
Tree rollins
November 16th, 2012
12:15 am
Decent backup catcher – now what was wrong with the one we had again???
O'Ventbrel
November 16th, 2012
12:42 am
Trolls and pessimists…smh
It doesn’t matter who Wren gets in free agency. He could sign 2 top-tier FAs and these people would find something to complain about. Even the popular opinion of a move for Denard Span and Josh Willingham would be ripped apart the minute it was announced.
Wren isn’t even close to being done this offseason, so I’ll reserve any irrational whining for when he actually screws something up.
Howdee Doodee
November 16th, 2012
12:51 am
Great pick up, Frank. Keep up the good work.
Murph's Mormunz
November 16th, 2012
12:57 am
Billvillebaron and O’Ventrbrel–agree with you 100%. Too many of our armchair GM’s and so-called “fans” will criticize every signing, forgetting how we won 90+ games last year with a mid-market payroll. Wren will put a competitive team on the field next season. Everyone take a breath—free agency has just begun.
Just Wanna Say
November 16th, 2012
1:16 am
Apparently, B Upton was here visiting today. Definitely fills CF and RH bat need. Just need to get the avg up. Guess that means we now have to fill the leadoff spot with LF? Span is still an option there. I think that would be a pretty solid lineup.
Just Wanna Say
November 16th, 2012
1:20 am
@Tree rollins
Did you miss the entire conversation about Ross getting a lot more money? Back up catcher is not worth that when we have other needs to fill.
Joe Dirte
November 16th, 2012
1:46 am
The Braves will win 85 games regardless but to expect this currently constructed Braves team to win 94 games next season considering that Chipper Jones is gone and the Phillies will be better is short sided. The Braves do have plenty of pitching and that’s good but with McCann and Uggla in the line-up accumulating outs and killing rallies force the Braves to need another power bat that can occupy the 3 or 4 spot. That’s why we need Hamilton IMO to drive in runners. If we get Hamilton we will be the favorites to win the NL plain and simple. Plus we have the money, that’s why I don’t see why more fans are not banging down the doors to make this deal. Remember the Tigers got Fielder and he helped the Tigers get to the WS Well Josh Hamilton is a complete 5 tool player and is maybe the best player in baseball. And if we sign him we can still have our prospects to use in another trade.
Just Wanna Say
November 16th, 2012
2:37 am
@Joe Dirte
It’s about using all our money on one player. That’s where the problem is. Also, we need a RH power bat. I love Hamilton, but just not sure if he’s the right fit. Plus, comparing us to Detroit is not fair. Bigger payroll.
Just Wanna Say
November 16th, 2012
3:09 am
Just to clarify. Upton could be the RH power bat, but we still need a leadoff hitter.
Joe Dirte
November 16th, 2012
3:16 am
We have good players like Gattis, Francisco, and Constanza that deserve a real chance to start, I feel we can give them the shot they deserve and spend the money needed for Hamilton. This team needs an identity and Hamilton would gve them that. Also Hamilton hits Lefties, Hamilton is one of the 2 or 3 best players in baseball and if you have a chance to go after him then why ot at least make a phone call. I think the Braves at least owe that to us engage Hamilton and see what happens.
LetsPlayTwo
November 16th, 2012
4:11 am
1. It’s November. Cool your heels about a possible opening day lineup.
2. Laird is a winner. If you don’t think he learned from Yadi and Avila, therefore got better, you are crazy. He will bring some of that to the clubhouse and the field.
3. If you want Bethancourt to be a GOOD MLB catcher, he first must be a GOOD minor league catcher. His numbers aren’t there yet. Upside means undeveloped.
4. I am not a FW apologist. There is plenty of work to do. HATE the Schafer signing, but he will not be the starting CF on opening day.
5. I LOVE Hot Stove chatter.
WBuckATC
November 16th, 2012
6:04 am
News flash!
No need to worry about the possiblity of JC Boscan catching for the Braves. The Cubs signed him yesterday to a minor league deal.
In the end, we got a MLB back up catcher with plenty of experience at a reasonable cost. The Braves were not going to get a starting caliber cather because when Mac comes back, one of the two would be sitting and costing way too much to do that.Would not be surprised ot see Bethancourt strat the season as a back up. I know the Braves would prefer him to play everyday at AAA, but the experience might be good. The Braves may also look to sign a journeyman catcher cheap to plug in as a back up for Laird until Mac is back.
I still want to see what Gattis can do ay AA and possibly the bigs, but he maybe in the OF just for his bat.
Nostradamus
November 16th, 2012
6:30 am
With Chipper’s leadership and Bourn’s speed gone this team will win 85 games in 2013.
A-Ville Ranger
November 16th, 2012
6:41 am
Dumb move letting Ross go. This guy looks like what he is, a CHEAP pickup.
jerry
November 16th, 2012
6:51 am
Well, there goes Laird’s streak.
Trader Jack
November 16th, 2012
6:54 am
“Along with hitting a career-high 28 home runs, Upton also recorded a career-high 169 strikeouts and compiled an alarming .298 on-base percentage. He has combined to hit .242 with a .317 on-base percentage and .436 slugging percentage over the past three seasons. ”
I say PASS on BJ Upton !
Another Dan Uggla !
.298 OBP !
$15 mil a year ???
YIKES !
ugaaccountant
November 16th, 2012
7:08 am
no problem with using significant money on Hamilton if he’s the right player. I didn’t think Fielder would be last year, but he was worth every penny. I have a feeling Hamilton is the same. I think he’s turned the corner in his life and will be a top 5 overall player the next 3-5 years.
Teddy B
November 16th, 2012
7:14 am
Glad we filled the David Ross roster spot quickly. Laird isn’t a bad player, just not a regular everyday starter. Hopefully we can get a peek at Gattis or Benthancourt sometime this spring/early season.
Ross wasn’t worth double his salary for a part time player, yes it sucks we lost the best backup catcher in baseball but good for him getting a raise this might be one of his last nice contracts. It will be interesting to see how Boston puts their team together after shedding over $200 MILLION in contracts last year. They appear to be mixing veterans and young talent which will be fun to watch for Boston fans.
We need to start signing some bigger names asap! Smokey McSchafer just won’t cut it as our lead off guy and daily CF’er. I hope we get 2 outfielders so Marteeen can move back into the infield. We should sign Prado to an extension he is about our most valuable guy out there since they can put him at nearly every position and he plays above average in most positions. Save some $ to extend Heyward, Freeman, and our core young pitchers too! I’d HATE to see any of our young guns lured away while Wren is asleep at the helm.
GO BRAVES!
Oldham
November 16th, 2012
7:35 am
Solid.
Braves' Nation
November 16th, 2012
7:48 am
Lets spend a little more to get Josh Hamilton !
For what what they will have to spend to get BJ Upton it only makes sense; the production between the two players isn’t even close
Jack Clompus
November 16th, 2012
7:52 am
Forget Hamilton. He’s a mess. You have to follow the guy 24/7 to keep him ou of trouble. Let other clubs overpay the immature, idiot adult.
Jack Clompus
November 16th, 2012
8:00 am
Overpaying for fat FAs is not the answer. And I can’t believe folks in love with Hamilton. That’s what we need in the locker room……a guy the whole team can worry constantly about when he’s going to have his next relapse….which he does every year. We didn’t win a championship while Chipper and overrated McCann were in their primes, so why do we think a couple overpaid fat FAs will do it?
Ralph
November 16th, 2012
8:18 am
PASS on BJ.
Frank Wren is an Incredible Failure
November 16th, 2012
8:25 am
Diaz, Schafer & Heyward.
That’s an outfield we can rally around.
Yeah, a Has Been, A Druggie, and a SISSY…..wow how impressive (NOT).
MikeY
November 16th, 2012
8:42 am
It will be interesting to see the financial side of the Laird signing. If it is more than, say, $1.3M 2013, $1.4M 2014, I think we overspent (he made $1M in 2012).
We will need a 3rd catcher (Boscan just signed w/ Cubs, Jose Yepez is a minor league free agent) to back up Laird for the first few weeks. I expect Wren will sign a couple of candidates as organizational depth.
I read on rotoworld that the Braves are getting some trade interest in JJ. I know he does not have much value but I hope the Braves can get something for him rather than straight out releasing him. Some team in desperate need of pitching may take a flier on him.
Braves' Nation
November 16th, 2012
8:46 am
PASS ON BJ UPTON !
He has nice speed & occasional power but his other numbers SUCK !
A bag of bats and balls is more than enough
November 16th, 2012
8:51 am
For JJ or Tommy Hanson or FOR BOTH OF THEM……a bag of bats and balls is more than enough and for good measure throw in Fredi for the garbage pit.
Braves' Nation
November 16th, 2012
9:04 am
BJ Upton is expected to get $75 million for 5 years
Along with Uggla’s contract (3 years remaining) that would condemn the Braves’ to mediocrity for years to come.
But think about all those strikeouts & meaningless solo HRS !
Amber Girl
November 16th, 2012
9:08 am
Hello everyone, I see all the complainers are out. What do you want? Not everyone can have Miguel Cabrera or Albert Pujols. Love your team people. Have faith and confidence. Wait and see what happens. You got Wren working. Don’t stop him now.
David O'Brien
November 16th, 2012
9:45 am
How about Koyie Hill, or Rod Barajas? Aren’t they both better defensively than Laird? I could be mistaken on that, but it seems they are both better at throwing out base runners. What about Jose Molina from the Rays? He is pretty sound defensively and probably not costing that much. — Yuup
Koyie Hill, who’ll be 34 in March, has hit below .195 each of the past two seasons and has a career .210 average and .565 OPS. And you think he’d have been a better choice than Laird, when the Braves are going to need the backup catcher to be the starting catcher for at least the first 2-3 weeks of the season? So whatever difference there might be in percentage of runners thrown out, to you that makes up for the fact that Hill is a black hole offensively?
No Flag Since Lemke
November 16th, 2012
9:55 am
Someone posted that BJ Upton is another Dan Uggla. Not exactly. Uggla may hit .240 like Upton but he never takes plays – or innings – or games off like Upton.
LawDawg
November 16th, 2012
10:00 am
Obviously not as good as Ross, but if we had to lose him because of the money, Laird is a great pickup. Good job Wren.
NORRIS CHUCK
November 16th, 2012
10:00 am
Heres the lineup i saw going into the offseason
Span or Victorino
Prado
Heyward
Freeman
Upton
McCann
Uggla
Simmons
So far im battin 500!
LawDawg
November 16th, 2012
10:02 am
My goodness, Brave fans (or at least those who post on here) are absolutely delusional. Josh Hamilton is not going to happen.
Also, BJ Upton would be a terrible pickup. He strikes out way too much and never gets on base. That is a very poor tradeoff for a few home runs and steals.
Ross Boys
November 16th, 2012
10:07 am
Need to nut up and make a statement to Nats & Phillies & sign Josh Hamilton. I heard Chase Utley reinjured his knee when he fell off his couch laughing at Braves signing Laird.
Ross Boys
November 16th, 2012
10:10 am
All those backups are black holes offensively including Laird…
Amber Girl
November 16th, 2012
10:13 am
First of all: WE DO NOT NEED HAMILTON. Second: BJ Upton doesn’t strikeout as much as bourn did. Third: Quit complaining on who Wren gets. He,s working. Don’t stop him now
David O'Brien
November 16th, 2012
10:13 am
Just glanced at ajc.com home page, and there was a picture of Twinkies w/ story of Hostess shutting its doors, right beside an unrelated story about diabetes on rise in Georgia.
Frank Wren
November 16th, 2012
10:33 am
Offense is overrated.
Not much difference between a .240 and .300 hitter
don
November 16th, 2012
10:33 am
The dud, Laird, sounds like a typical Wren panic signing. Bringing back Greg Olsen makes more sense.
Ira Marks
November 16th, 2012
10:47 am
The sooner the Braves get rid of McCann the better. He is terrible. Can’t hit, can’t hit in the clutch, is too slow and is a poor defensive catcher. All the ingredients you need for a starting catcher
Ira Marks
November 16th, 2012
10:48 am
Plus he and Derek Lowe combined to keep ATL out of the playoffs in 2011.
Braves' Nation
November 16th, 2012
10:49 am
Upton had 169 strikeouts last season and a .298 OBP; with that many whiffs he should have had a lot more homers than 28; his RBI total isn’t too good either
That is too Uggla-esque for me.
Atlanta Braves Links of the Day For November 16, 2012 | Atlanta Braves Dugout Online | Atlanta Braves Blog
November 16th, 2012
10:50 am
[...] Braves sign Laird as new backup catcher [...]
Amber Girl
November 16th, 2012
10:54 am
@Braves Nation I wouldn’t worry about Upton. Braves did not sign him when he visited. Other teams especially Philie know Braves want him so they will outbid and sign him.
chandler
November 16th, 2012
12:05 pm
Braves acquired a quality back up,he is durable, handles pitching staff well, and has a leadership ability in the club house. gonna miss “G Money” in Tiger Town!!
Bro
November 16th, 2012
12:58 pm
Another dumb-ass moved by another DA. Let the best back-up catcher go and use his age as a reason. Scouting and money have been a major problem for the braves the past few years, as illustrated by the lack of a qualified 3d base prospect. Everyone knew Chipper was close to the end of his career the past 5 years-and no option at ed base in the system. Remember the 6 P(s)–prior planning prevents piss poor performance. Words to live by Frankie Boy.
BigHittas
November 16th, 2012
1:37 pm
The Braves ownership in letting Ross go are about as bad as the Hostess Twinkie guys!
coach joe
November 16th, 2012
3:34 pm
75 million for Upton..Offer the 75 million to Bourn and keep our lead off man and our defensive cenere fielder…. no brainer
coach joe
November 16th, 2012
3:35 pm
Should have given Ross the second year..
Preston Hannatized
November 16th, 2012
3:47 pm
Braves fever – Gerald Laird? He’s no Paul Bako but he’ll do. The problem is that Laird fits the Braves business model – not the best guy out there but affordable. The Braves – alas – need some offense out of the C position. Ross got some big hits filling in McCann. I don’t see Laird matching Ross’ output. Therefore, sans McCann, this is a minor step backwards.
All this new money from Chipper, Bourn, etc … has to be spent somewhere. Doesn’t it?
Brian
November 16th, 2012
3:48 pm
Come on, it was a LUXURY to have Ross as a backup for all those years. Get over it!
jmart1951
November 16th, 2012
4:34 pm
If the Braves do sign Upton or Pagan I would leave Prado in left field. I would then try to work out a deal with the Rangers for Olt. Maybe one of Delgado or Tehren plus one additional double AA or below prospect. If it took three players I would consider that depending upon the players requested by the Rangers. If the three players came from several of the Braves positions of strength then I would do the deal. Its my opinion that with one of the two pitchers cited above it should only take one additional prospect.
jmart1951
November 16th, 2012
4:35 pm
If the Braves cannot obtain Upton or Pagan then I would trade for Span and try to sign both Ichiro and Gomes to share left field.
jmart1951
November 16th, 2012
4:39 pm
I would sign Ichiro for two years at $8 mill / year and Gomes for 2 years at $4 mill / year. I believe that they would be more productive as a combination than either Upton or Pagan but realize that I am in the minority with that opinion.
jmart1951
November 16th, 2012
4:48 pm
With one of Ichiro or Gomes on the bench it begins to strengthn the bench, especially as compared to last year. The bench becomes Ichiro or Gomes plus Laird, Francisco, Pasternichy and Constanza
It includes some power, some contact hitters and plenty of speed.
jmart1951
November 16th, 2012
4:50 pm
This also frees up payroll to extend Heywood and Prado.
Desibrave
November 16th, 2012
5:02 pm
DOB, How about trading for Toulowiscki from Rockies for a pair of pitchers like Tehran and Delgado, plus 2 A level prospects? and then in turn Trading Simmons to DBack for Justin Upton and then sign free agent BJ Upton
BJ Upton
Prado
Toulowiski
Justin Upton
Heyward
Freeman
Uggla
Laird/McCann
Thats a solid Lineup
Seattle Braves
November 16th, 2012
5:13 pm
@desibrave
Only problem is payroll. Otherwise its a good lineup
Seattle Braves
November 16th, 2012
5:14 pm
also NO to trading Simmons
Desibrave
November 16th, 2012
5:16 pm
Gotta Find a way to Trade for a new Owner
Someone who is local and wants to win
Amber Girl
November 16th, 2012
6:25 pm
@Desibrave Whatever you are smoking, pass it around
Nova Scotia Steve
November 16th, 2012
10:23 pm
“The Braves hope that catcher Gerald Laird keeps a personal streak alive by playing in a third consecutive World Series in 2013″
No need to worry. We all know how the Braves handle personal streaks.
See Eric Hinske.
Nova Scotia Steve
November 16th, 2012
10:26 pm
PS
Employing offensive black holes is no foreign entity to the Atlanta Braves. Nothing surprises me anymore with this team.
Unless we land Hamilton. Then I may unvoluntarly lose control on all humanly functions and create quite a mess.
ab initio
November 17th, 2012
1:49 am
May the sewers of Rangoon back up into your breakfast, Wren.
chris watson
November 17th, 2012
3:38 am
So if the general feeling is that David Ross is the best back up catcher in baseball and Laird is a back up then based on that logic Ross is the superior player. Okay, so please tell me why the Braves were unwilling to offer Ross a two year deal but they give this guy a two year deal. I see a lot of people bashing Frank Wren but I usually disagree with the negative comments & feel he does a good job given the payroll restraints but they flat out dropped the ball on this one. They should have negotiated & wrapped up a new two year deal with Ross weeks ago once they knew BMac was going to miss the start of next year.
Free Pastornicky
November 17th, 2012
8:22 am
For all of you know-it-alls out there. The Red Sox can afford to pay Ross more not only because they have a higher payroll, they also expect Ross to play more. Salty’s average against left handers is terrible and I think it is going to be more of a platoon situation. Also, how did that last free agent pick up from the Braves go for the Red Sox. (Smoltz)
Free Pastornicky
November 17th, 2012
8:24 am
Ross is 37 and Laird is 33. That is why they are willing to give him a 2 year deal.
Jack Clompus
November 17th, 2012
10:15 am
“This is about losing a clubhouse leader……..”
Exactly why do you believe this? Somebody writes this and everyone just continues to repeat it over and over again. What exactly did this ‘leadership’ provide the club the last couple years, neither of which the Braves make it to the playoffs?
Gosh, people suck into these notions just because it’s included in an article. The Red Sox overpaid for a backup and, maybe he’s a decent presence in the locker room. Gosh, it’s hard to hang in these nonsensical boards.
Jack Clompus
November 17th, 2012
10:18 am
Leadership in the locker room? Why, because somebody includes this in an article? No playoffs the last 2 seasons and we’re actually going to annoint this guy a locker room leader. Give me a break. He’s at the tail end of a career and the Sox overpaid.
Ozzie
November 17th, 2012
11:59 am
Laird as a back up is not a huge deal. Two years is not ideal bc he cannot hit a beach ball with a surf board. That said, two years will probably required to get Laird to sign.
In the end Wren is likely saving 1.5 mm a year which apparently he needed to do. However he has wasted more on less in 1yr deals so I would have like to seen him stretch for Ross.
I am no Wren fan or FG for that matter and will be quite happy when they along with JS, McGuirk and Liberty are finally given the boot.
This deal is a rounding error = who cares move. It doesn’t make me dislike Wren more or less.
That will have to wait until I see who he puts in LF, CF and if he can some how unload Uggla which may go down as his worst signing as a GM (talking entire career).
Ozzie
November 17th, 2012
12:01 pm
…was probably required…..
Ozzie
November 17th, 2012
12:07 pm
Constanza days as a Brave are probably about up unless Schafer finds another way to suck or screw up.
Gattis is this years Terds but weaker defensively. Gattis seems to be able to hit but he is not a top notch catcher and at best is raw in the OF.
If the Braves were an AL team he would see time in ATL as a DH but unless he can prove to be more than a lamp post in LF or a C- level catcher where do you play him?
He is a great story with huge power but on a NL team that has needs in the field I don’t see him as an option.
People are drooling over his power numbers etc ignoring the rest of his game.
Personally with Mac on his way out and often injured I would not bother with Gattis in the OF. Get him the best catching instrutor you can and improve his game at that position. That or move him to 1B – ditto on the mentor.
EIther as a player or a trade piece he will have more value at C or 1B unless he is more athletic (re: quicker) than he looks (re: moving him to the OF).
Denny Lemaster
November 17th, 2012
6:36 pm
BREAKING NEWS: Frank Rear End has just announced that the Braves have traded Prado, Heyward, Freddie, their closer and set up man to the Yankees for AROD. The Braves have agreed to pick up the $1.5 trillion still owed by the Yankees on the contract and pay half of the traded players contracts through the year 2525.
Ken Stallings
November 17th, 2012
9:05 pm
A sevicable signing, and likely the best option the Braves had available to them.
Ken Stallings
November 17th, 2012
9:10 pm
Jack Clompus,
David Ross tutored Brian McCann on mechanics of throwing out runners attempting to steal, and because of this work, Mac’s stats throwing out runners improved dramatically. Ross was also instrumental in calling games, scouting with the coaches and pitchers to decide how to pitch. Considering how well the Braves pitched last year, don’t underestimate the effect Ross had in this one area.
Ross was a veteran presence on a very young team, who had the experience and maturity to provide a calming influence when the team faced adversity, plus a stable influence to temper over-enthusiasm. He was also a first class person and in that respect provided a role model for the younger players to emulate.
So, you can stop the assertion this hasn’t be explained in detail. It has been — by Dave O’Brien and bloggers such as myself and many others.
Ozzie
November 18th, 2012
12:05 pm
Ross is 35 and will be 36 in March. Laird just turned 33 in November. Saving 1.3mm a year for an inferior hitter when your team is offensively inconsistent and your catcher is coming off major surgery and is not very fit is a risk.
No way to sugar coat that fact.
Mac is a question mark and Bethancourt cannot hit leaving a lot more on Laird shoulders than starting for a few weeks in April.
Again if Wren knocks our socks off with moves in CF and LF then its no big deal. If we end up with Span, Victorino or say Colby Ramus in the OF then it will be a long season.
Art
November 18th, 2012
5:26 pm
Why not sign Upton and Cody Ross and have a line up like this – Prado, Upton, Heyward, Freeman, Uggla, McCann/Laird, Ross, Simmons and pitcher.
urban redneck
November 18th, 2012
9:37 pm
if we are going to spend lots of money for a CF, i would like him to be our leadoff hitter. we don’t have a decent leadoff man. the above poster suggested prado. i guess it’s possible…….but only because he’s like chuck norris junior. go bravos.
Bacon and eggs are good
November 19th, 2012
5:30 am
For one time wren did a great job Larid could be the dark horse here and suprise yall in Hittin and throwin out runners better then McCann’t will i afraid Mccann will be out all season and we should release so can go home make wife have another son…..period The Braves will win 95 games again but choke the wildcard play in game again ….and that will seal freddi job as manager he be fired!
Peter
November 19th, 2012
8:47 am
For one time wren did a great job Larid could be the dark horse here and suprise yall in Hittin and throwin out runners better then McCann’t.
How dark is that horse so dark you can’t see it ?
Awful pick up…….. goes with all the rest of the garbage Wren has brought to this team.
Peter
November 19th, 2012
8:52 am
Are you folks ready to see a 75 win ball club this year ? Hitting will be a challenge, and scoring runs well, we know they have gotten 10 hits and scored 2 runs, because of the lack of speed.
Catchers won’t throw anyone out, so we will get run on all year………. that will drive the pitchers crazy, who then will try to be perfect.
Miserable baseball ahead with Frank Wren at the helm……. and YES baseball IS a LONG Season, when you are losing.
Freddi won’t lose his job, because it really will be managements fault, heck corporate baseball is about all at the top making the money, and screw the fans !
BravesFanSince80s
November 19th, 2012
9:42 am
I don’t really understand the 94 wins argument given how much MLB has watered down the regular season and all but removed it’s importance from playoff results. That said, why does it matter that we won 94 games last year when we didn’t really even make the playoffs? In other words, given the current season and playoff format, who cares how many games we won? The embarrassment of that asinine “play-in” game will echo down the years. Not to beat a dead horse, but the real issue with the C position is not Ross or Laird or Boscan or Bethancourt, but that we rolled the dice on a 12 MILLION DOLLAR OPTION for a fat, slow, poor defenisice C who just had MAJOR SHOULDER SURGERY. This decision will impact the team for years to come and already has impacted the off-season, right out of the gates (see Ross, David)…
BravesFanSince80s
November 19th, 2012
9:43 am
defensive*
jmart1951
November 19th, 2012
2:24 pm
Has anyone wondered why the braves didn’t pursue Juan Pierre (sp?)
1.6 mill one year contract for a lead off hitter and center fielder
Gives them one more year to get Cunningham ready.
The only problem that I know of with Pierre is a weak arm
The Braves then could make a trade for Olt or go after a power hitting left fielder
Or they could have gone with a platoon at third and left field involving Gomes / Prado and T third of Francisco / Prado
The later way would have been all free agents (low cost) with a reserve of money in place to use next year on e several more questions have been answered
jmart1951
November 19th, 2012
2:45 pm
I personally believe tha Prado is a better left fielder than Third baseman
One reason that I like a trade for Olt
I hate to see the Braves do too much this offseason since they have the potential of having Gattis, Bettencourt, Cunningham and Ahmed ready for 2014
That along with some of the younger pitchers being ready in 2014 would give us all the money needed to extend Haywood, Freeman, Beachy, Kimbrel, O’Flaraghty,
If the Braves think that Olt has more upside than Fransisco then trade for Olt and give them Francisco and a good pitcher for Olt this off season and leave Prado in left.
Would still need to trade for Span.
All of these moves make the Braves younger, less costly with room to extend contracts and have more speed on the basepaths. It also gives the Braves the pieces available to trade and tie down Mike Stanton when the Marlins are ready to trade him at this year’s deadline
Braves Fan Since 1966
November 22nd, 2012
1:13 am
At least he was cheap to sign. Isn’t that all that matters? There’s little to choose from among rotten apples and left overs. One thing for sure we know this guy won’t be playing in a World Series in 2013.
Lobosolo
November 23rd, 2012
6:51 am
Ah, Thanksgiving… I am oddly thankful that when I don’t have enough to entertain myself, all I have to do is get on these blogs and read the screeds of scores of armchairs who seem to think they know everything there is to know about baseball… some of you might want to start learning about it before Spring rolls around… Maybe the networks could make one of those contrived reality shows about y’all… “The Real GM’s of Atlanta”, where useless wannabe’s vie for the title of most boorish imbecile of the year, or MBI, of MLB…
74bravesjersey
November 24th, 2012
1:53 pm
So Gattis isn’t on the 40 man Roster, well guess he’ll be left unprotected, I’m sure once given the opportunity somewhere else he’ll fourish, then he’ll probably come back to haunt us. He’s hit in every level he’s been in & the Braves don’t want to take a chance w/him. Somebody else will pick ‘em up quickly. Not much to the braves but Gold to some one else.
David O'Brien
November 24th, 2012
2:31 pm
So Gattis isn’t on the 40 man Roster, well guess he’ll be left unprotected, I’m sure once given the opportunity somewhere else he’ll fourish, then he’ll probably come back to haunt us. He’s hit in every level he’s been in & the Braves don’t want to take a chance w/him. Somebody else will pick ‘em up quickly. Not much to the braves but Gold to some one else. — 74bravesjersey
Before you try to outdo other blog commenters or show you can be just as bitter as the next guy, at least bone up on the rules. Gattis isn’t on the 40-man roster for one reason: He doesn’t need to be protected. He hasn’t been in the organization long enough to be eligible for the Rule 5 draft.
David O'Brien
November 25th, 2012
12:27 pm
Good afternoon. Enjoy this one from The Felice Brothers.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJr8yd-HgRs&feature=related