Can this possibly be a sign from the Braves?
Tommy Hanson overcame the Yankees and his own adrenaline issues to win again. (Jason Getz / jgetz@ajc.com)
It had been nine years since the Braves played host to the New York Yankees. In that 2000 season, they turned out to be division champions (again) but hit the wall in the playoffs (again). The Yankees won the World Series (again).
When Tuesday arrived, both teams were struggling with identity issues. New York hasn’t won a title since 2000, while nobody in Atlanta has been allowed to complain about little division flags in the past three. But at least one seemed to recall what success felt like.
Looking to the future with, well, their future, the Braves got 5-1/3 innings of shutout ball from rookie Tommy Hanson on Tuesday night. They blanked the Yankees 4-0.
This win follows a shutout of the Chicago Cubs the night before, which followed a competitive series (albeit two losses) in Boston last weekend.
The obvious question: Is this it?
Is this when a team that largely has been mediocre since those bubbly days in Orlando finally makes a move?
“We’re playing good baseball,” catcher Brian McCann said.
And, you know, it really is that simple (Chipper Jones’ drop of a throw for an error, notwithstanding). Effective starting pitching. A shut-down effort by the bullpen. Timely hitting by McCann (run-scoring double and a homer) and Garret Anderson (two-run double).
Remember when it used to come together like that all the time?
This one started with Hanson — a rookie pitcher facing a star-laden lineup on a $201 million roster (a payroll that more than doubles the Braves). Turner Field was mostly packed, but by the sound of it, one-third were from the Bronx. It’s no wonder Hanson got a little overexcited at times. That led to control issues (five walks and a hit batter). He was over 50 pitches by the third inning and at 99 with one out and two on in the sixth, when he was pulled.
But as much as Hanson pitched into problems, he pitched out of them. The Yankees left the bases loaded in the second and fourth. They stranded eight runners in a three-inning span. They left two more on (belonging to Hanson) in the sixth, when Peter Moylan got Derek Jeter to bounce into an inning-ending double play.
“Really, the walks are something I’ve never experienced before,” Hanson said. “I know what I’m doing wrong. I just need to slow myself down. I’m just making it harder on myself than it could be. That being said, none of those guys scored. I got out of there with some zeroes.”
In his first major-league start two weeks ago, he was slammed for three homers and seven runs (six earned) in six innings. But look at what has happened since: Three straight wins, two runs allowed in 17 innings and 14 straight shutout innings.
If an improbable postseason run is coming, what happened Tuesday against the Yankees can’t be an aberration. It has to be closer to the norm.
The season, as described by general manager Frank Wren, has been a grind. The pitching, which has been generally solid, has been negated by the offense, which has been generally anemic. The biggest stories have centered on demotions, trade rumors and outright releases.
This is not just another week for the Braves because a few games under .500 in late June isn’t going to get it done for a team serious about winning the division. They have to send up some sort of flare.
Could this be it?
It's a Braves celebration. There's something relatively new. (Jason Getz / jgetz@ajc.com)
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141 comments Add your comment
Powder Springs Jacket
June 23rd, 2009
10:18 pm
They still need one more bat…Matt Holiday? Brian Roberts? maybe even Mark DeRosa? Washington might be willing to part with Adam Dunn..unless the Braves get another mid-to-top tier hitter, I don’t see us making the Playoffs
NRBQ
June 23rd, 2009
10:21 pm
Leave it to a jacket to bitch.
Great win. Hanson’s the man.
dwaynerice
June 23rd, 2009
10:25 pm
Great win, for sure..can’t wait for Infante to get back, and for Jeff and Kelly to get it together, if not get a bat..heck, get a bat anyway
dwaynerice
June 23rd, 2009
10:26 pm
that should be, Jeff and Kelly to get it together (hopefully)
Herschel Talker
June 23rd, 2009
10:37 pm
In baseball, anyone can win on any night. Let’s see them do this for 2 weeks straight, something like an 11-2 run, and then we can talk. Any talk at this point is quite premature. They are who they are.
Ken Stallings
June 23rd, 2009
10:49 pm
Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone, Jeff. And you finally have written something nice about Hanson. It only took you three quality starts and 17 consecutive scoreless innings pitched!
I deal in fact. Be nice if you did!
Larry
June 23rd, 2009
10:51 pm
Jeff,
No, its not a “sign,” Jeff, merely two consecutive games of shoutout pitching which removes the element of doubt known as Bobby Cox in game decisions. Yes, even Bobby Cox can manage not to blow shutout pitching performances.
chamblee dawg
June 23rd, 2009
10:52 pm
meh… yankees suck
Reid Adair
June 23rd, 2009
10:55 pm
As nice as the back-to-back shutouts have been, I just don’t see how this “offense” can get any semblance of consistency for the sake of a run at the playoffs.
RHR
June 23rd, 2009
11:40 pm
So far the story of these 2009 braves is beat the good teams, lose to the cellar dwellers so its not surprising to see them play the bosox, cubs, and yankees well. If they would/could bring that same intensity to the field vs the orioles, pirates & giants of the world then they’d have something to get excited about.
kalen
June 23rd, 2009
11:45 pm
get adam dunn
Alpharetta
June 23rd, 2009
11:52 pm
Yes. A blind squirrel can find an acorn sometime. 4 runs against the Yanks, not enough most of the times, somehow enough tonight. I call that lucky.
Mitch C
June 23rd, 2009
11:53 pm
Two good wins on consecutive nights, but we need so much more. As RHR said, we have played very well against the good teams, and awful against the mediocre to bad ones. Remember the good stretch of baseball in May, where we had that excellent road trip to New York and Philly, and the good homestand? After that, we bottomed out.
The saving grace for this team is that no one else in the division is playing well. The Mets have serious injury problems, and the Phillies cant seem to buy a win at home.
If we were to have a seven and three homestand, and the Mets and Phillies continue to falter, then, maybe we can talk contention for wild cards or divisions. Until then, to use to old baseball cliche, we have to take things one game at a time, and try to win as many games as possible, while hoping we get help from opponents of the Mets and Phillies.
Mitch
Vince
June 23rd, 2009
11:59 pm
The Braves need more power from either left or right field and from first base. Can David Ross play first base? That would solve a power problem there. I liked Canizares from the Gwinett Braves. Maybe they could trade Kotchman and a low minor leaguer for a power first baseman. Either way once Infante gets back he and Prado should be in the lineup everyday. They’re both too good of hitters and the Braves need them playing everyday. Maybe that would put a fire into Kotchman, K. Johnson, and Francouer. If Bobby Cox is creative and as good a manager as everybody thinks he’s got enough bats once Infante gets back to play whoever is on a hot streak. Chipper/McClouth/Escobar/McCann play everyday and move whoever is hot into the other positions. With our pitching I think that it’ll work. The Braves will be the talk of baseball with 4 daily platoon positions. Cox will look like a genius.
atlpaddy
June 24th, 2009
12:04 am
If you are from Atlanta or the South and you root for the Yankees or BoSox, you are a tool. Period.
NO MORE BOBBY
June 24th, 2009
12:16 am
For this year? No. But I do see the Braves back in the playoffs within two years. If they dont screw with the young players and trade them away. let them mature the way Gant, Justice, Avery and the 90s Braves did. I can live with losing if we play the way we have against Boston and tonight.
The playoffs in two years will be with a new manager though. Im hoping Smoltz sucks this year and decides to walk away. Then comes back to Atlanta to manage the Braves. Imagine him and Wren going at it like Billy Martin and Steinbrenner back in the day.
NO MORE BOBBY
June 24th, 2009
12:18 am
Ahhhh the Adam Dunn name appears again.
Adam
June 24th, 2009
12:19 am
Still most of our runs being scored with 2 outs — no sustained rallies.
7-8-9 in the order is like a free inning for the opposition.
Yoman
June 24th, 2009
12:20 am
Thats exactly right RHR. It all started a few years ago, they always struggle against sub .500 teams and debut pitchers.
Yoman
June 24th, 2009
12:22 am
My long term goal is to replace Jeff Francouer.
RC35
June 24th, 2009
12:23 am
Remember that old poem some of us had to memorize: “Out upon it, I have loved three whole days together/And shall likely love three more, if it prove fair weather…”? That’s how I feel about the Braves right now. They gave us three or so days of hope at the beginning of the season, then three more against the Blue Jays, and now two against the Cubs and Yankees. When they win 14 of 20 or 30 of 50, then I’ll feel hopeful. Until then, the Braves are just too inconsistent to be consistently bad.
Adam
June 24th, 2009
12:25 am
I like the increase in SBs….. love Yunel tagging and going to 2B on the fly ball…. That is what this team will have to do in the 2nd half.’
If the Braves average 4 runs a game in the 2nd half, September and October will be extremely meaningful.
They’ve gotten a reprieve because of the poor play of the NL East. But you saw what the Phils did to David Price tonight. That was scary.
Randy J.
June 24th, 2009
12:40 am
Great Great Win!! Go braves!!
alsim
June 24th, 2009
1:07 am
Some may think this is an important homestand but more vital to me is how they follow it up on the road trip that follows (Nats, Cubs, Rockies). These Braves seem to have trouble with the mediocre and last place teams.
.
Decision Time
June 24th, 2009
1:08 am
It’s time for the Braves to make some trades – buyers or sellers – make the decision and let’s get on with it.
Prado and Infante are ready to play and have tremendous potential but if they were the answer they would be playing everyday already.
KJ is something of a known commodity but had been a tease over and over again with moments of brilliance and months of mediocrity.
Frenchy just pisses me off with his lack of plate discipline and inability to make a legitimate adjustment in his past 1000 at bats.
All you Bobby haters out there need to wake up and realize that beyond Chipper, McClouth and McCann the Braves are full of 7 and 8 hole hitters.
If I were Frank Wren: KJ, Kotchman, Frenchy, Escobar and Diaz (apologies to Diaz I love that guy) would all be on the trading block. I wouldn’t deal all of them – but they would be in discussions.
I’m all for the Braves trading to win now – but they’re gonna have to increase payroll to do it. If they can’t increase payroll we’re just gonna end up with more deals like Texeria.
I like Mark Derosa – but he ain’t the answer – by himself. Go get DeRo to play 1st base or second only if you can get an upgrade in RF or LF – a pipe dream but get me Nick Markakis from Baltimore to man a corner spot and you’ll be building for the future.
Pipe Dream of the day – Justion Upton from the D’Backs – but I’d assume he’s untouchable.
ugh…..what are the Braves gonna be this year….winners…or loooosserrs???
Ron Roberts
June 24th, 2009
1:19 am
Well, not for nothing, but where would this team be if Chipper weren’t hitting .163 the last 14 days? If Casey Kotchman weren’t hitting .095 the last week? If Jeff Francoeur weren’t hitting .235 the past week (like that’s unusual). At least Garrett’s coming around and McLouth is hot the last week (and .28 the last 14 days). And McCann’s just being All-Star caliber McCann.
WHEN Bobby Cox benches KJ for Prado and WHEN Chipper comes back around (it’ll happen), this team has a fighting chance. We have better pitching than the Mets and Phillies, so if we can just muster 4.5 a game, and do that more consistently than being shut out one night, scoring 9 the next, we’ll be alright.
StateBird
June 24th, 2009
1:34 am
The season boils down to the performance of Francouer and K. Johnson. If those two guys hit above .275 the rest of the season the Braves win the division easy (of course barring no major injuries).
Najeh Davenpoop
June 24th, 2009
1:36 am
I’m enjoying the win against the Yankees and their obnoxious fans, but I’m not holding my breath on this team as long as the offense stays as is. The Braves have been a .500 team all season, and a couple of nice wins following a couple of close losses only continues that trend. Until they show that they can put together all aspects of the game for more than a few games at a time, they are not truly contenders. But count me among the many thousands (millions?) of baseball fans impressed with Tommy Hanson. He is a lot of fun to watch.
Mitun
June 24th, 2009
2:11 am
why not get Brian Robert and Nick Markakis for Kotchman, and Yunel
Tim
June 24th, 2009
2:46 am
One third of the stadium was from the Bronx???…No, One third are front running yankee fans, not from the bronx.
Jalb3rt
June 24th, 2009
3:26 am
Why is every-effing-body here talking about trading Escobar along with Francine, KJ, and others. Why the heck you put Escobar on the ”lets get rid of ___ via trade” wagon. Are you people dumb? blind? stupid? idiots? ignorants? tell me please, i would love to know… McLouth, McCann, Escobar and Anderson (yes, i said Anderson, Garrett Anderson, GA, Loaf, whatever you want to call him) are the only ones getting the job done on the offensive side (and C. Jones too, who has been just shy of hitting HRs 3 times in each of the last 2 games). Escobar is one of the only guys with some pop in the lineup, so you think the best the braves can do is trade for another bat, just to have a new hole in SS? hahaha, omg, you seriously crack me up.. you got to be kidding, this is unbelievable… Thanks God NONE of you are working for the Braves’ front office, because that would be a real mess. =)
GaCracker
June 24th, 2009
3:33 am
When the Braves get a manager like Joe Torre or the Diamondbacks’ manager, then they might have a chance. With formula managing by “Mr. Predictable”, Bobby Cox, they have 2 chances: slim, and none!
willieg
June 24th, 2009
3:37 am
toot your horn all you want ,you brat CHIENG TODAY WOW,DEMPSTER YESTERDAY WOW,this team is in 4th it will stay there this team needs to trade chipper and fire bobby,and trade hanson to the yankees.CHAMBERLIN AND PETTITE WILL SHUT DOWN THE BRAVES JUST LIKE BECKETT DID,this team will go on a 8game losing streak starting tomorrow ,see you all in the funny papers.
gotigers72
June 24th, 2009
3:38 am
The Phillies need a closer in the worst way. Lidge is on the DL and has been pitiful, blowing something like 6 saves. Madson has been just as bad since moving to closer.
How about this? Victorino and Madson for Gonzo and Diaz? Madson was great in a setup role, not so great as a closer. Victorino is more than a solid outfielder and hitter. Has a gun for an arm and runs like a deer. Suddenly the Braves have something they haven’t had for a long time; speed at the top of the lineup. Nate leads off and The Flyin’ Hawaiian hits second. If the Phils want Soriano instead of Gonzo, no deal.
Matty is a serviceable leftfielder and an above average bat. The trade is really Victorino for Gonzo. I know, Gonzo’s been great most of the time. If Bobby was a smoker like Earl Weaver was, he would have lung cancer by now from watching Gonzo pitch. But he usually gets the job done. You have to give something of quality to get something of quality. The Braves would still have Soriano. Just throwing something out there. I know GMs don’t want to trade inside their division, but desperate times call for desperate measures.
willieg
June 24th, 2009
3:41 am
LOSERS LOSERS LOSERS THE YANKEES RULE.
Kevin
June 24th, 2009
3:46 am
who let willieg out of his cell room….try tonein down u words they scarey when huge…lol.Just sad not see smoltz pitch vs us here this weekend unless he gets rain out we not….Maybe he come in n relief pitcher on sat afternoon on fox n go 2 innings and get a save after his victory over the washington(use be Montreal)Nats on thursday!
Sadtoseeitthisway
June 24th, 2009
4:13 am
This Kevin guy is the one person who will be crying the longest and the loudest when Marta raises their fare .25. But after all that complaining he`ll hang with them, we`ve seen it before. At least for now the Braves are making us proud. Great to see all those Yankee fans leaving quietly.
The ghost of Terence Moore
June 24th, 2009
5:09 am
Kevin is arguably more entertaining than Schultz.
Can you say buyout?
Collin
June 24th, 2009
5:46 am
Wonder if Oakland will take Jeff and Kelly and some 1a prospect for Matt Holliday lol
NCBravesFan
June 24th, 2009
6:30 am
Jeff: I’m with RC35 – I want to see them play .600 ball or better over a sustained period of time before I’ll believe they’ve got a shot. The offense does appear to be coming around a bit (thanks, Nate!), but their defense is still too loose on the left side of the diamond.
Also, in a division where Rollins is hitting .230, KJ could pick it back up again for us with the bat (because he’s done it before, streak hitter though he may be), but the Braves have to make a really big decision about Frenchy in right in the next month. Do they essentially go with a .250 singles hitter who plays good defense in RF, or try to get more pop from that position?
Keef1234
June 24th, 2009
6:36 am
until Liberty raises the payroll another $50 million to $150, 000,000 (Redsox being the model) OR Arthur Blank buys the Braves, no amount of speculation/anticipation is going to help this team. Jason Bay should be here ALONG with Mclouth, NOT instead of. Teixeria SHOULD be here long term. AJ Burnett should be here IN ADDITION to Lowe not instead of…
You can’t clip coupons to win the World Series. Ask Boston…
Tommy Wildfire Rich
June 24th, 2009
7:07 am
Keef- I’ll take all of our pitchers, save Kawakami ove Burnett. Hindsight is 20/20 and I’m glad AJ didn’t choose us.
TNJeff
June 24th, 2009
7:09 am
I’ve learned (man, have I learned) not to get my hopes up with this team and this manager.
Unfortunately, this team has a will to lose and lose they will
Bill Heller
June 24th, 2009
7:24 am
Someone should teach Franceour how to throw a knuckle ball.
UGASlobberknocker
June 24th, 2009
7:26 am
We need one more big bat. I havent given up on Francoeur getting hot, but almost. I wanted a new hot hitting left fielder, but since Anderson is heating up; now I’d like to see us trade for a big bopper first baseman..trade Kochman and others for him. .Also Kelly Johnson has got to go..hitting .220 but always looking for a walk. in the field,..he doesnt commit that many errors. but seems like every one is at a big time in the game. Lets at least put a slick fielder there if we arent going to get any offensive production out of the position.
The Braves pitching is good enough to win the pennant. The bats might not win the East Cobb League..Frank Wren—do something, dude…dont wait til July 30 when it is too late.
bull-gator
June 24th, 2009
7:36 am
The lineup won’t be solid until a 2nd baseman and a right fielder are found that can hit the ball. As much as I like both Kelly and Jeff as individuals, they are not everyday major league players. Prado and Infante (when he’s healthy) can play 2nd and before the trade deadline (sometime in Aug?) Wren will somehow pick up a quality right fielder. Also, Escobar needs to get his head and a$$ wired together. He’s got way too much talent to be so flakey at the plate and the field.
Cletus
June 24th, 2009
7:41 am
As a previous poster said, all we need is for KJ and Frenchy to start hitting like they are capable of. But I would still make a trade for DeRosa. If nothing else, he can play RF and Infante can play 2B.
This is a nice lineup:
McLouth (l)
Escobar (r)
Chipper (s)
McCann (l)
DeRosa (r)
Anderson (l)
Infante (r)
Trade KJ for a nice prospect and use Frenchy as a defensive replacement/4th outfielder.
MK
June 24th, 2009
7:41 am
Why are we still playing KJ? Why? Why? Why… and why are we not running more? This team could win if Bobby would just get out of the way…
Shadetree
June 24th, 2009
7:49 am
I wish people would get off of Kotchmans back. I will take him over virtually evey 1st basement in the national league. While he doesn’t hit for power his glove saves a run a game.
All we need is for Francouer to comea round, a little and bring Prado out for 2nd base. Once Infante comes back then that will let us have someone to put in Francouers spot. Prado and Infante is better than Johnson and Francouer. All day long.
The Bravos are in this thing. As a fan that’s all me can ask.
It was also nice to hear the fans last night really get into the game.
Go Braves
raymond
June 24th, 2009
7:51 am
I have to disagree with McCann, the Braves are not playing good baseball ( see their record). If the Braves are even going to win this division again their best chance is this year. The Phillies are playing like a team that only has offense and the Mets are beatup. Both are having a down year, so this is the only chance this mediocre organization has to win but they won’t unless they add some offense. We knew this in the off season and it is still true, the only way we win is getting a stellar pitching performance and scoring 3 or 4 runs.
Mikey101
June 24th, 2009
7:53 am
What can you do with Johnson and Franceour? No other team wants them. Not much chance of a trade unless they were “throw ins” on another deal. Just release them and eat their salary.
Shadetree
June 24th, 2009
7:54 am
Raymond,
I will take a stellar pitching performance and 3 or 4 runs a game every time.
Nativebird
June 24th, 2009
8:03 am
Got to get another bat, with real HR power. A big bat in the middle of the lineup. Simply said, this team does not hit enough HR’s. Period. And in the big leagues, you simply must do that “some” to make it to the playoffs.
Larry
June 24th, 2009
8:09 am
Forget it! The bottom line is no championship team would have Francoeur in RF or KJ at 2nd, and along with Diaz you’re watching three guys that will absolutely kill you in a key at bat in a short series when facing the best pitching. This is the perpetual Bobby Cox flaw, keep hoping and hoping and waiting and waiting over 162 games and then when either of these three’s bat happens to find the ball for a few games this just feeds the Bobby Cox denial and we continue to witness right up to the last out of the postseason–with one exception in his tenure–watching the other team celebrate on the mound.
Why on earth is Kelly Johnson still starting? Me? I’d put Prado at second yesterday as he is a better contact hitter, better 2nd sacker and has more speed. The moment Infante gets off the DL I’d either put him in either Center or RF (and McClouth in the other outfield position) and sit or trade that free swinging hack known as Francoeur. I’d bring up that speedster from the minors (forgot the name) that was here for a day and use him for running and pop him in LF for defense and an occasional start. Diaz would never come up in a key situation again for us to watch him swing at a ball above his head on a 3-3 count with the bases loaded (Boston Game).
Lineup:
Infante
Escobar
Jones
McCann
McClouth (Not a high enough BA to bat lead-off but would protect McCann)
Anderson
Kotchman (until we can do better)
Prado
Now you have speed at the top and a respectable, more contact hitting, in the batting order from 6-8. This is how you fight and scratch to win the majority of games when you have such good pitching and more situational, contact hitters almost always create a few breaks in a short series.
But, never mind, this is the same Manager who once had Andruw Jones batting lead-off!
Coach ( 2010 or Bust)
June 24th, 2009
8:19 am
Time to nip this blog in the bud.
The last two games have been impressive (the pitching, that is). But I’ll offer up one very sobering statistic. (3.7)
Yep, three point seven. That is average number of runs scored during the last ten games played. It is also the identical same number for all twenty games played so far in June. We are 9-11 on the month and 4-6 over the last ten games.
I’m afraid that this is as good as it gets. Bobby has his best line up on the field night after night. Head lined by McLouth, Escobar, Chipper, McCann, Anderson, Kotchman and the rest. I don’t how it’s possible to win scoring less than four runs per game with the best team available, I really don’t. Unless of course one can hope our pitching can keep spinning shut outs night after night.
coachphiel
June 24th, 2009
8:37 am
when the braves get a manager with the mindset to MANUFACTURE runs, they’ll have a chance.
you get a runner on 1st or on 2nd with no one out, they next guy bunts, REGARDLESS OF WHO IT IS. make productive outs, score on sac flys, squeeze, hit and run. something other than wait on doubles and homers that simply will not come from these guys.
that is what this lineup is capable of doing; they are not being made to do what they need to do to win games.
for the love of all things holy, have some of these guys bunt the ball and move some runners.
Lee
June 24th, 2009
8:39 am
The pitching makes this team close. A big bat in the lineup and yes I think this team has the potential. Without that big bat in the lineup it’s hard to get too excited. But the pitching on this team is excellent right now. If the Braves keep winning especially against these teams they’ll make believers out of everyone. Untill then, it’s hard to tell.
Bama Aaron
June 24th, 2009
8:48 am
The pitching is there, but we still need another bat. Getting Infante back might help some. But we need 1 more bat (perferably with power) to be able to make to the playoffs. It was nice to see the Braves start to do a few little things like stealing a base or two…moving up a base when the ball is hit deep. One thing that wasn’t so nice…I hated sitting in my seat and hearing more Yankees make noise than Braves fans. Come on if I can live in Bama & be a season ticket holder a few of you that live there can show up for some games!
Doug
June 24th, 2009
8:55 am
Chipper to first. Prado and Infante at 3rd & 2nd (either way). Johnson to right (last chance, Kelly). Kotchman and Frenchy on the block.
atlhoney
June 24th, 2009
8:58 am
Get rid of Gonzo? Are you crazy? Gonzo and Soriano at the back end of the bullpen is one of the best combos we have had in a long time! I have to agree that a change of venue for Frenchy is the best thing though.
Musa
June 24th, 2009
9:03 am
I really think frenchy is coming out of his slump. He has looked much better the last 10 days. We and he need to realize he is not going to be a 30-40 hr guy. He is a linedrive hitter when at his best. Thats what he needs to be, hitting to all fields.
Mark DeRosa would be a good addition. Just dont want to give up much that we have. Maybe give up KJ. I really like Prado too. He needs to be in the lineup anywhere and much much more often.
Also, I like Escobar. I think trading him would be a huge mistake. Our problem is we dont have a real cleanup guy other than McCann these days. And as it stands, the 5 hole hitter isnt good enough to really protect McCann. If French gets it back then he is the guy.
Our lineup is really missing power. This makes it tough to put it together. Bobby really has a tough job these days. And, about Bobby. If the players are sincere about how much they love playing for him, then we don’t need to get rid of him. If they will play for him then he is what we need.
Herschworld
June 24th, 2009
9:06 am
Jeff,
I really want you to go out there focus and try really really hard to state the obvious a little better. Remember this is the AJC, and if you are going to be captain obvious you got to do a better job of being a hack.
bob
June 24th, 2009
9:16 am
I had the chance to watch the team last night. The Braves must do something about Johnson and Francour….a team can not have one third of the lineup (JF, KJ, and pitcher) bat around 220 and leave so many runners on base. I would give up JF and KJ for a Gardner type of player with speed….it would mean so much more to this team to have a player with disruptive speed.
The pitching staff….starters and relievers are top notch. Sure, they blow up every now and then but they can dominate at times. And, what about Hudson returning.
Give me more run production and things could get interesting in the next few months.
Supes
June 24th, 2009
9:16 am
Yes Adam Dunn.
Or perhaps those who scuff at the notion would LIKE TO CONTINUE trotting a .250 singles hitter with marginal power out there in RF?
At least Anderson (Loaf) is coming around as of late. If we keep getting the production we are getting out of him in LF that leaves 2 spots in the lineup that are offensive liabilities right now.
RF – manned by Jeff Francine, aka out machine, aka 6-4-3, aka Failcouer
2B – manned by the enigma that is KJ, who is killing the Braves with his recent “cold slump” for the past month or there about.
Like I said…RF…plugging in a HR high OBP guy like Adam Dunn would be a HUGE upgrade.
2B – Afraid the Braves have no trade move there (during the season). Hope to get a boost when Omar returns in late July from the disabled list. Until then, our only hope is that Bobby Cox starts to play Prado more at 2B.
Other options for RF include (if they can be had somehow)…Cody Ross (Marlins), (Josh Willingham – Nats).
DeRosa would cost too much, would love to have him in RF (where he’s servicable)
Holliday same thing, plus he’s a Boras guy (which means he’ll be a 2 month rental) and he’s got declining power numbers.
Dye declining numbers, and owed a good chunk of change for next season too.
Best trade “chips” the Braves have right now – Javy Vazquez, Peter Moyland. Those 2 could be packaged to the Nats for Adam Dunn.
Randy E.
June 24th, 2009
9:19 am
Trade Francoeur and a draft pick/prospect for another outfielder with a big bat. Adam Dunn maybe?
Marc Schneider
June 24th, 2009
9:22 am
Yankees rule? You mean like when they play the Red Sox?
coach smith
June 24th, 2009
9:23 am
Trade KJ and JOJO for MARK DEROSA
Trade FRENCHY, Brandon Jones, Medlen for HOLIDAY
and let’s win this damn thing
or if you only want to make ONE MOVE….trade FRENCHY, Brandon Jones, JOJO, and another prospect for HOLIDAY
then play PRADO/INFANTE more at 2nd base
lineup:
McClouth (cf)
Escobar (ss)
Chipper (3rd)
McCann (c)
Holiday (RF)
Anderson (LF)
Infante (2nd)
Kotchman (1st)
STRETCH
June 24th, 2009
9:26 am
coachphiel – Thats NOT Bobby Cox style ball. When a man gets that old and is allowed to continue to managing for as long as he has, thats just the way things are gonna go down in ole dixie.
He still waits for McGriff, Klesko, Justice, Gant, The Big Cat, etc…to hit the ball out with runners in front of em. And the fact of the matter is its not happening with this bunch.
Bobby Cox will leave when he’s ready, which leads me to wonder….when is Bobby Cox gonna call it quits?
Bill
June 24th, 2009
9:29 am
The Braves are good at” building you up to let you down.” Heard this song before, the Braves will have to win 2 out of 3 with NNY, Red Sox, Phillies to prove they are for real. With Bobby playing the dead wood, KJ,JF etc the Braves will not win on regular base.
Thanks Bobby Cox and Leo Mazzone for the 14 good years . Yes, you have to put Leo in with Bobby because since Leo’s been gone Bobbys forgot how to win. With all due respect Bobby, PLEASE RETIRE. God bless the USA we need it.
yellerjacket
June 24th, 2009
9:30 am
coach smith, first of all your trades would never happen because other teams aren’t out to make themselves worse so the Braves can get better. Second of all the fact that you have Holliday hitting fifth and McCann hitting clean-up shows the extent of your baseball knowledge. Even Bobby wouldn’t throw that card up in the dugout.
coach smith
June 24th, 2009
9:31 am
The BRAVES WILL NOT trade VAZQUEZ………anybody who thinks so should just get it out of their heads
They didn’t trade FOR HIM just to trade him away a couple months later (AND HE HAS BEEN VERY GOOD)….don’t forget HUDDY’s contract is up at the end of the season
I do think however, that if you trade for a bat, you need to be ready to discuss long-term contract with whoever it is and the next year let GA go and bring up HEYWARD to play LF next year
so your outfield for the next several years would be McClouth, Heyward, Holliday/etc..
yellerjacket
June 24th, 2009
9:31 am
I know it is natural to desperately seek out a scapegoat, but this is getting a little ridiculous. I have read these blogs over the last several weeks as the Braves have floundered in mediocrity and inability to put together a run and have consistently chuckled to myself as bloggers scream for the heads of Bobby Cox, Terry Pendleton, Frank Wren, and now Terry McGuirk of all people. Bobby Cox is untouchable, you all know it, so let it go. TP has kept the Braves near the top of the NL in all batting categories that matter since he came over, until this year. Frank Wren made move after move this past offseason and during the current season to make this team better while being forced to operate in a relatively limiting payroll situation (compared to the top teams in baseball, at least).
It is ridiculous for you armchair quarterbacks on here to whine and bellyache about how the Braves aren’t what they used to be. I’m pretty sure that Smoltz, Glavine, announcers we no longer have, and anyone else that is gone that y’all bemoan would not have improved the W-L record this year. Let’s try and remember that Smoltz has yet to throw a pitch in the majors this year and Glavine himself admitted that he wasn’t going to pitch this year. We’re better off without them. If nothing ever changed on the Braves roster we’d have geriatrics on the field, people. Releasing 40+ year old pitchers following multiple arm surgeries is a no brainer when you’re operating under budget constraints.
As the immortal Lloyd Christmas screamed to the nurse on the elevator in the number one comedy of all time, “Move it or lose it, sister!!!” I say the same to you Braves “fans” out there who do nothing but call for firings and demotions, but fail to offer any semblance of a solution. Let the real Braves fans handle the blog comments from here on out. The fans who are excited about the next few years for the Bravos and who commend Frank Wren for bringing Lowe, Vazquez, (the constantly improving and adjusting) Kawakami, the budding ace Jurrjens, and the building block that is McClouth.
Oh, and just to rile up any else out there who hasn’t felt a ruffled feather yet: Francouer’s defense, frozen rope spewing right arm, and underrated speed in the field mitigate the .250 average for the most part, for me.
Kelly Johnson is poop, Infante will become the everyday man ASAP, and Prado is the only utility man we need.
Bring back DeRo, forget Holliday, and we can win this division.
Mark my words, if the Braves can emerge from this gauntlet that is the next two weeks near .500, Wren will make a move for a slugging 2B or OF and the Braves will get hot and expose the Phillies and the Mets for what they are (thin), enroute to a soul-stirring run at the pennant (or Wild Card). WHO’S WITH ME????
coach smith
June 24th, 2009
9:34 am
leave it to a jacket to complain about a HYPOTHETICAL lineup
If you look I was just going Righty/Lefty/Righty/Lefty
and excuse me, but those two teams are going nowhere and those two players will be free-agents so getting 3-4 players with major league experience is as good as they can hope for in trade
GT
June 24th, 2009
9:34 am
These guys have done it so many times lets give them the benefit of the doubt. Last year the pitching was poor to say the least. They had possibly the best third and first baseman in baseball and a offense better than the one now and were much worse in my opinion. They are making progress with this team and are making progress during the season. Note, we have Hanson instead of Glavine a mid season decision everybody acted like was a clueless one, now it looks pretty good. Our centerfielder is an all star the one we had at the beginning of the season has issues he may never solve. Anderson is starting to look good. All this plus McCann is having a career year, Chipper is Chipper, and these guys are taking the pressure off of Jeff. If we have a weakness it is second base. The only unfixable problems in baseball is pitching and we don’t have that. Our management is superb and does not get the credit from the press or fans. I was there in the 70s and 80s when Hank was the only side show we had.
Larry
June 24th, 2009
9:36 am
Nearly anyone with more than a double digit IQ wants to bench or trade Francoeur, but it takes two to make a trade. Honestly, can anyone think of another team dumb enough to trade anyone of current or potential for Francoeur? No way! He’s a throw in player at best which means we’ll have to give up someone of greater value to get what we want or need.
With both Prado and Infante decent complimentary players. I’d find someone with a contact hitting speedster to put at the top of this lineup capable of 50+ stolen bases and swap Francoeur, Johnson, Diaz and a quality pitcher to get them. Then, all of a sudden, this team looks and feels like a playoff caliber team. like Rollins did for the Phillies last year and Reyes can do for the Mets.
yellerjacket
June 24th, 2009
9:40 am
Kelly Johnson will interest no team as a trade piece unless he goes on one of his increasingly less frequent hitting streaks. As soon as Infante gets back he HAS GOT to start at 2B almost every single night. We don’t need to sell the farm for Holliday and we don’t need the strikeout machine/molasses-like defender that is Dunn. A player like DeRosa, Markakis, Hawpe, Spilboroughs, etc. is all we can afford and all we need to win this division. The NLCS and the World Series should be goals for 2010-2012.
Poorjeff
June 24th, 2009
9:42 am
Can’t trade Jeff because no one will take his 3.5 million salary for just a jock.
We don’t need to trade for a two month rental. Had enough of that BS with Tex.
Hanson is for real, great game Kid.
Don’t trade Vazquez!
jim
June 24th, 2009
9:43 am
Bobby looked REAL stupid last night bringing in Moylan in an attempt to induce the Jeter double play. What a moronic manager!!! Oh, wait…that worked out pretty well.
yellerjacket
June 24th, 2009
9:43 am
coach smith, you’re a sensitive guy. I can respect that.
Supes
June 24th, 2009
9:45 am
coach smith,
I think you “just lost” the “coach title” that goes with your screen name.
The best trading chip the Braves have is Javy Vazquez. What do most teams in contention need before the July trade deadline? A bat or a SP (or closer).
Javy’s trade value will never be as high as it is right now.
Be mindful that we have Tim Hudson back in August, and if he’s healthy and back to form (and so far so good), the team will probably pick up their option year on his contract for 2010.
So you’ll have the following SP for 2010:
Hudson, Lowe, Jair, Kawakami, Hanson and Vazquez.
Are you planning on going to a 6 man rotation? Japanese baseball league style?
Of course not!
Kawakami gets paid too much to be a bullpen guy, so forget moving him there. Braves are not trading D-Lowe, b/c his contract length makes him less appealing. Jair and Hanson aren’t going anywhere. They are the future. Like I said, Hudson is going to be here (barring some health issues).
Meanwhile, Javy is signed for 2 years only. He’s pitching lights out. You’ve gotta give up SOMETHING of value to GET something of Value back.
It makes sense. Perfect sense.
Unfortunately including ONLY players like Jeff, Kelly in a trade scenario will NOT net the Braves the impact bat that we need.
Reported rumors surficed that Braves tried to acquire Hermida and or Ross from the Marlins and the trade they offered was Jeff and Charlie Morton and the Marlins said, thanks but NO thanks.
So yes, tell me what players (other than the untouchable prospects) we have that will NET us the Impact bat in return in 2009?
Answer is…Javy Vazquez (and I’d hate to lose him, guy’s been excellent and fun to watch).
Braves73
June 24th, 2009
9:49 am
While I was very pleased with the win, the Braves/Bobby need(s) to make a move at 2nd base. How much longer is he going to allow Kelly Johnson to audition? He is neither a superb defensive second baseman nor a hitting machine. If you were to leave a player in with (such horrific hitting slumps), he would have to be a excellent with the glove (see Mark Lemke). With that being said, it’s time to at least give Prado a chance at the position to see what he can do (on a full time basis).
Now, that alone will not solve the Braves offensive woes. They still need a bonafide power hitter…someone that can change a game with one swing of the bat.
varodrunner
June 24th, 2009
9:50 am
I didn’t take Jacket’s post as bitching. Last night was a great win, but to get to the post season, I too believe we need more. Probably more than just a bat.
I agree, Hanson is the real deal and demonstrated that last night. He had to be as nervous as imagineable. He battled. Clearly has the “stuff” and used it.
yellerjacket
June 24th, 2009
9:52 am
As the immortal Lloyd Christmas screamed to the nurse on the elevator in the number one comedy of all time, “Move it or lose it, sister!!!” I say the same to you Braves “fans” out there who do nothing but call for firings, demotions, (or ridiculous trades like Francouer, Jo-Jo “AAAA Ace” Reyes, and half of our triple A squad/current bullpen for ONE rental year of Matt Holliday – come on Coach Smith, seriously? Are you like a vocabulary coach for those crooked tooth fifth graders in the national spelling bee or something?) but fail to offer any semblance of a solution.
Let the real Braves fans handle the blog comments from here on out. The fans who are excited about the next few years for the Bravos and who commend Frank Wren for bringing Lowe, Vazquez, (the constantly improving and adjusting) Kawakami, the budding ace Jurrjens, and the building block that is McClouth.
Oh, and just to rile up anyone else out there who hasn’t felt a ruffled feather yet: Francouer’s defense, frozen rope spewing right arm, and underrated speed in the field mitigate the .250 average for the most part, for me.
Kelly Johnson is poop, Infante will become the everyday man ASAP, and Prado is the only utility man we need.
Bring back DeRo, forget Holliday, and we can win this division.
Mark my words, if the Braves can emerge from this gauntlet that is the next two weeks near .500, Wren will make a move for a slugging 2B or OF and the Braves will get hot and expose the Phillies and the Mets for what they are (thin), enroute to a soul-stirring run at the pennant (or Wild Card). WHO’S WITH ME????
Nachos
June 24th, 2009
9:53 am
YANKEES SUCK! GAY-ROD is a fraud.
Daniel
June 24th, 2009
9:54 am
Jeff,
I really hope that we are starting to turn it around. They certainly have played better baseball in general after leaving Cincy. The truth is we have no business still being in the hunt. But, with the Phils and Mets falling apart here we are. We are in a strange way in a better place than those clubs. It is always easier to add a bat to the lineup then finding starting pitching. Honestly, I was ready to give up on this team, but thanks in large part to the Mets and Phils poor play we are still there. Let’s go Braves.
Nativebird
June 24th, 2009
9:55 am
The underlying truth about all those Yankee fans at the Ted?
99% of them live, work and play in Atlanta, and when the Braves are winning, they’re all at the Ted with their Braves gear on doing the chop.
and when the Braves are down, 1/2 of them show up with their Mets gear on when NY is in town.
The loyal New York fan is a MYTH. trust me, I married into a New York family! All full of hot air. They JUMP SHIP twice as fast as Braves fans. THAT my friends is a FACT.
Georgie boy
June 24th, 2009
9:56 am
Hey guys.. the Braves played with heart last night following the lead of Tommy Hanson.. Was a great win.. enjoy the win and let’s get on with the next game. we must realize and extra 50 million $$$ a year would put the Braves in business to win it all. unfortunately this market is not the yanks or red sox.. so we have to do with what we have. great game guys. good luck in this series at home.
vinnie
June 24th, 2009
10:01 am
Adam Dunn and Nick Johnson for Francoeur,Medlen,Kotchman and Gonzo.
Poorjeff
June 24th, 2009
10:02 am
GT—- Hank was never a side show in the 1970’s,1980’s . Hank’s last year was 1974 in Atlanta and if I remember correct he hit over 20 homers that year. The Chase was not a sided show. The man was great and drug free….the true Homerun King. Most of all a great person.
Wes
June 24th, 2009
10:09 am
if we could somehow swing a deal (although quite unlikely) for Brian Roberts, i think we’d have a very strong shot not just at the wild card, but the division as well.
And what is Bobby thinking batting JF and KJ next to each other in the order…….and then putting them 7 and 8!!!! With the pitcher coming up at 9, you’re giving the opposition and ENTIRE free inning every time around the order!
61 year Braves Fan
June 24th, 2009
10:09 am
I totally agree with coachphiel we have got to make things happen by letting the few players with speed to steal, play hit and run to stay out of double plays etc. Put some pressure on the other team’s
defense. I also agree with all those who want Prado at 2nd base. He is far superior to KJ. Bring up
Brandon Jones and play him in right field to platoon with Diaz. Trade Frenchy for a bag of balls.
siskel_god
June 24th, 2009
10:10 am
The most impressive thing about Hanson is the knack he has shown for getting out of jams. Your not always gonna have great stuff, but his ability to grind it out and not give in is very impressive. I’m not going to be negative about anything today, after two great wins against really good teams I have nothing to be mad about. Were in position to win the first series of the biggest homestand of the year, you can’t ask for more at this point. I have been on the bash GA bandwagon all year and I know he is more of a second half player so maybe this will be the start of something good for him. Jeff is going to be fine, I am the only person in Atlanta that thinks we can win and keep Jeff Francoeur on the roster I know but, hey I guess I’m optimistic about his future. Adding DeRosa will be key, I think you have to focus on him more than any other guy right now because of the age and injury concerns at a few positions, and the fact that he can start at 2nd everyday. I am very proud of these guys right now, they are showing some fire and effort and it seems to have started with Chipper, his comments to the AJC, Foxsports, and then the blow up in Boston, but the biggest thing is he has not missed a game in a long time. He’s played alot and if he gets hot and continues to be in the lineup then we definitely have a good shot at overtaking the Mets and Phils. We need to keep this run up and put together a nice little winning streak and get some guys some of their confidence back and get a little swagger.
Mort Merkel
June 24th, 2009
10:11 am
The term of the day is contact hitter.
Tech Man in Dawg Country
June 24th, 2009
10:12 am
The Braves seem to have been playing well against the good teams, they just struggle against the ones they should beat. The have been playing to the level of the competition. To make the playoffs, they are going to have to start taking all of the series against the lesser teams.
Wes
June 24th, 2009
10:14 am
The whole team seems to pick up the pace and tempo for all of Hansen’s starts. Ya think Tommy has 80 or 90 more starts in his arm this year??
siskel_god
June 24th, 2009
10:14 am
We been playing a little hit and run lately, Bobby seems to have faith in Nate and he’s turned him loose a couple times. I think Bobby has got a good feel for what he’s got now and I expect him to make some adjustments.
PATTY
June 24th, 2009
10:19 am
when Infante comes back he can play right, second, short and third. he will help boost the offense and D. when hudson comes back in august kawakami will be able to get that extra day off so he will kick some ass everytime he pitches.
THE BRAVES need to trade Kotchman jo jo reyes and someother minor league dude for ADRIAN GONZALES!!! have him hit 4th
1. McClouth
2. Escobay
3. Chipper
4. Gonzales
5. McCann
6. Diaz or Anderson
7. Frenchy
8.Kelly or Infante
9. (pitcher)
brian elliott
June 24th, 2009
10:19 am
good game last nite. I liked Moylan’s fist pump after the double play on Jeter. It was fun to see the Braves smile again. This team plays tense and Bobby’s unable to get the most from them anymore. Winning makes everyone feel better and relax more..Team chemistry is important and I think that will way in on any trades. Let’s hope the good play continues and we win some more games. I think it’s time to let everyone loose and enjoy some more guys from Gwinnet. Hanson makes it fun to watch the games again like JJ did for us last year. I hope management will allow some of the young guys to get playing time so the team stays fresh. Sit K.J. Jeff & Chipper and let some other guys play too.
Go Braves and make us proud the rest of the year!
Ed
June 24th, 2009
10:20 am
I think I just read those stupid words again. “Trade Vazquez”.Everyone with good eyes knows he is our BEST pitcher. Please guys, stop that insanity.
Denny Neagle
June 24th, 2009
10:21 am
We can’t say “can this be a sign?” until the Braves win at least 4 in a row or 8,9 out of 10. They do this every other week, they win a couple in a row and everything starts to look right only to go out and lose two or three in a row.
PATTY
June 24th, 2009
10:27 am
THE BRAVES need to trade Kotchman jo jo reyes and someother minor league dude for ADRIAN GONZALES!!!
Wes
June 24th, 2009
10:29 am
Ed- I could not possible agree more. Vasquez isn’t just our best pitcher, he’s the best damn pitcher in baseball! On just a “basic” offensive team, he’d be 11-1. Lowest whip in the league. First in K’s. Take a way one 6-run inning and he’d lead in ERA as well. And he’s under a managable contract until after NEXT season. If we get to a poing where were 12 or 13 games out of it, then MAYBE you think about unloading him. When we’re only FOUR games back, the notion of Vasquez being traded running through anyone’s mind is simply assenine.
siskel_god
June 24th, 2009
10:29 am
Yeah the trade Vazquez stuff has to stop, we got him this year and next at least, and he has been our best pitcher without a doubt. Remember last year how hard it was to watch JoJo, and Charlie pitch? My confidence in the team when Buddy Carlyle was toeing the slab every fifth day was at it’s peak. You don’t trade guys like that away, you extend them.
yellerjacket
June 24th, 2009
10:29 am
PATTY,
I actually like that trade but the padres are going to have to decide if they are buyers or sellers first. Gonzalez is young and cheap so he may be their “untouchable” type guy. Especially if they are going to get rid of Peavy before the trade deadline. I don’t think that trade would happen with Reyes as the pitcher involved though. Kotchman, Medlen or Gonzo (because Hoffman in SD is getting old quickly), and a prospect might get it done if the Pads think they can’t keep Gonzalez long term.
Wes
June 24th, 2009
10:32 am
Siskel, I also tried hanging with Jeff. But after 3 horrible years its over. Last night was the absolute FINALS straw. He leads off an inning after Tommy threw 28 pitches. What does he do? Maybe, take a pitch or two to give your pitcher who just pitched his a$$ off to get out of a jam? Nope! Not Jeff. He swings at a first pitch sinker in the damn dirt and hits a 30ft high chopper. that was IT for me. Trully hope he never plays another inning in Atlanta unless he’s playing with another team.
Not only does he clearly not have any baseball physical ability, that play should have proved to everyone that he has absolutely zero baseball intellect. Bye, Jeff. Good ridance.
Blackberry Cobbler
June 24th, 2009
10:32 am
Get rid of Francine, Kelly Johnson, and Krotchman. Bring in another (big) bat. I’m still not convinced that this pitching staff has what it takes. Get more pitching.
siskel_god
June 24th, 2009
10:32 am
They won’t move Peavy he’s on the DL until August and no way they trade Gonzalez for JoJo, Kotchman and whoever else you said, unless you said Jason Heyward. Adrian contract is very reasonable through the next 2 seasons (I think). The Kevin Towers has already said no way he’s dealing Gonzalez.
Denny Neagle
June 24th, 2009
10:34 am
PATTY
Why don’t the Braves get Pujols, Greinke, and Pappelbon while they’re at it too???
I think it’s been explained a thousand times why San Diego wouldn’t trade Gonzalez
Jeff
June 24th, 2009
10:36 am
We still need to add another bat. Give up Bennett, Vasquez or Kawakami, and a prospect to add another slugger to the line up.
siskel_god
June 24th, 2009
10:39 am
I gotta disagree Wes that he has no ability, he did hit 29 homers and had back to back 100 rbis seasons. But I totally understand the feelings, I was all over shipping him off last year. I’m used to people disagreeing with me about him on this blog by now, I just see a guy who is trying so hard to recapture his initial glory that he’s shooting himself in the foot. You can have one guy on your roster that you are developing, get him some at bats and give him some time off to work on some things, but two guys becomes a problem, it’s been pointed out several times here that your pitcher can’t be your best hitter in an inning and that has been the case when KJ, Jeff, and the pitcher have been up in the same inning. I think Jeff still has a good upside and KJ has always been to darn streaky, so that’s where I would look to upgrade.
Chipper
June 24th, 2009
10:40 am
Francine needs to just be let go. Eat his salary.
yellerjacket
June 24th, 2009
10:40 am
Mr. Neagle, you’re a meanie. At least PATTY’s comment wasn’t centered around trading all of the worst Braves for a team’s best player. Baby steps.
Ramblin Rick
June 24th, 2009
10:40 am
Keep your hands off the white women A-ROID !
Chipper
June 24th, 2009
10:42 am
If you disagree with Jeff not having ability, then frankly you’re wrong. He had 100 rbi seasons because every time he came up he had 2 or 3 guys on. EVERY TIME. You and I could have knocked home 100 runs.
“He hit 29 hr’s.” So? Brady Anderson hit 50 one year. How’d the rest of his career pan out?
Wes
June 24th, 2009
10:46 am
Francoeur has no ability. No mind. And now, he is nothing but a selfish player.
29 hr’s in 1 of his 5 years. Siskel, we call that a fluke.
TUpac Petty
June 24th, 2009
10:48 am
Tupac say, we need more offense….cmon Frank…more offense! Good game Braves…..Keep on Keeping on!
yellerjacket
June 24th, 2009
10:51 am
Yep Gonzalez is a stretch. I wonder if the Brewers would be willing to get rid of one of their outfielders? They have a lot of them. If they become sellers this year, we might be able to get Ryan Braun for the likes of Vazquez and Brandon Jones.
TUpac Petty
June 24th, 2009
10:52 am
Oh yea, one more Tupac ism……more pitching too! Lets get back to THE WAY IT IS SUPPOSED TO BE! GO BRAVES……..!
GTSteve
June 24th, 2009
10:55 am
Yeah I think you could trade Jeff Bennett for a bat…………Oh you want a player that can hit……Oh , sorry my bad
siskel_god
June 24th, 2009
10:56 am
Chipper you proved my point for me, there was a time where Jeff Francoeur lead the majors with two out rbi’s, he was clutch, even if it was only a couple of seasons. That should show you he has the ability. His head’s not right, that’s all and I’m not saying that’s not a big deal or an easy fix, but to say he is incapable of doing things that he has already done is wrong, saying you don’t think he’s ever gonna do it again would be your opinion not a fact.
siskel_god
June 24th, 2009
11:05 am
The Jeff Francoeur thing is pointless anyways, Ken Rosenthal is reporting that no team is interested in acquiring him. But he does say in his latest article that the Braves and Brewers could re open discussions for Corey Hart, the Brewers need pitching and the Braves have a surplus. Those are Kenny’s words not mine, I say hold on to all our arms, you never know when one might fall off.
Hilton Head Island
June 24th, 2009
11:09 am
When you consider how poorly and inconsistently the Braves have played this year, it says something about the rest of the NL East that they’re only 4 games back. Don’t forget 1991 when we were 9 or 10 games under .500 at the break, then caught fire and ended up 24 games OVER and won the division. I’m not saying it’ll happen again, but we have the talent to go on a similar run, we just need Frenchy and Johnson to awaken from their comas and Jeff Bennett to go the way of Blaine Boyer.
And to those of you rolling your eyes at two straight wins (both shutouts), it at least makes the statement that the Braves can play with the big boys ( I remind you that both the Cubs and Yankees are the loves of the Sports media and were picked by many to win their respective divisions). I’m hoping that this is the spark that lights the fuse. And I happen to think that one Tommy Hanson may just be the difference the second half…we shall see. GO BRAVES!!!
owl hunter
June 24th, 2009
11:17 am
The only realistic kind of trade the Braves likely would make is for Spillbourgs (sp?) or someone on a similar level. Available outfield bats are scarce and nobody wants to give up their best player for our garbage. The thought of the Brewers giving up a franchise cornerstone like Braun for Javy and the great Brandond Jones is nuts. Even if they throw in Frenchy, KJ, Jo Jo, Bennet, Lonnie Smith, and Dion James; it will never happen.
Wes
June 24th, 2009
11:23 am
You think Lonnie Smith can still play right?
Homer
June 24th, 2009
11:25 am
FIRE SCHULTZ!!!
Missing the Braves of the 90's...
June 24th, 2009
11:27 am
Some people need to be realistic…………
No one going to take Frenchy off our hands via a trade, they would be stupid. I think Jeff is a great guy, but cmon, enough is enough. He is killing us. I have given him the benefit till now, but how long do we have to wait for him to come around. I say keep him this year, use him as a number 4 outfielder and let him get a change of scenery next year.
Also sit kelly J once Infante comes back, use him as a utility man only. Play Prado more, at least he hustles!!
Don’t trade Chipper, let him retire a Brave. Don’t screw up like we did with Smoltz and Glavine. He is one reason us fans go to the ball park.
DC from Conyers
June 24th, 2009
11:38 am
I have been really pulling for First Pitch Frenchy, but if he insist on not correcting his problems at the plate maybe he does need a fresh start. First off I would not allow a team member to go to another hitting coach espically one that won’t be there to see you hit and make adjustments. JF seems to be like Andrew, stubborn won’t listen to hitting advice from the Braves hitting coach. If the players have lost cofidence in TP maybe it’s time for a change there also. I will tell you that ain’t gonna happen though. He will be the next Manager of the ATL. Braves. I thin some of the problems is coaching,IE Yunel base running blunders. I have never seen a pro make as many mistakes. Also bunting to the wrong side of the infield. Now if they are coaching and the players won’t listen then it’s time to make some changes. I agree with playing Ross at first some, at least while he is hot. When Huddy comes back I would move Kawkami to the pen because he has so many pitches that have great movement. Enjoy the win against the Yanks they don’t come here to often. Congradulations to Big Red, got out of a couple of jams and hung in there and got the win. Today is another day, strap them up and go get them.
timthebrave
June 24th, 2009
11:38 am
You bobby cox haters have to give him some credit last night. Handled the bullpen perfectly in bringing Moylan in and getting the double play.
yo
June 24th, 2009
11:46 am
i don’t understand why medlen has been left to rot in the bullpen. he never gets in games. this can’t be good for his development. he should be in gwinnett starting games if he is not being used.
Doug
June 24th, 2009
11:47 am
Plain and simple, to the Braves Brass “HELP” or wait until 2010 to see what can be done to find some hitting . One thing people need to give Garret Anderson a break, new league,new pitchers to face, and he is a second half hitter as a rule. The Braves need more hitters like him, patient and tough outs who make contact.
Missing the Braves of the 90's...
June 24th, 2009
11:51 am
Anyone else notice Francoer’s at bats…..?
First at bat= has patience and draws a surprising walk
Second at bat= swings at first pitch and gets out
Third at bat= swings at first pitch and gets out
At least he did hit the ball hard but do U think there is a pattern here? lol
RHR
June 24th, 2009
11:57 am
lol I agree with paddy @ 12:04 a.m.
It takes a terrible set of parents to let their southern kids grow up to be Yankee or Red Sox fans.
bravesfanforever
June 24th, 2009
1:13 pm
Consistently swinging at the first pitch shows very poor baseball fundamentals. Studying the pitching patterns is important as well as deciding when you are going to swing at the one mistake you might get during that AB. OR perhaps waiting for that one pitch that is in your zone, or perhaps waiting for a particular pitch like a fastball or curveball. Do any of you see Francoeur doing any of these things? Of course not. He simply swings at pitches thinking that he can hit them all. This demonstrates a complete lack of hitting knowledge or perhaps arrogance.
The great Ted Williams says he would wait for that one hittable pitch. Even he realized that he could not hit everything (and I’m assuming that’s why he would draw so many walks). He didn’t try to swing at anything and everything. Naturally Frenchy is no Ted Williams–more like the total opposite. If you ask me, he is no better than an A ball player.
Marshall
June 24th, 2009
3:19 pm
Look the Braves don’t have the salary space for a guy like Dunn who commands 8 million for this year alone. If the Braves want a bat they would have to Trade Johnson, Kotchman, Garrett Anderson and Jeff Francoeur to Washington and yet still be a little over a million and half short just to get Nick Johnson and Adam Dunn which would be neccessary to fill your roster….However its my opinion if you can get another Bullpen pitcher to fill in the roll of soriano then the Braves can get rid of over 6 million in salary and not be so constricted with thier roster options…..
Marshall
June 24th, 2009
3:20 pm
As it is right now the Braves best option for trades are Frency and Anderson for Cody Ross or Jeremy Hermida possibly both and still walking away ahead 1.4 million…Otherwise the Braves should Trade with the marlins Johnson and Kotchman for Uggla and Lindstrom
Marshall
June 24th, 2009
3:21 pm
Inquire about Gonzalez with the Padres, Trade Kotch and Frenchy for Gonzalez and move Diaz over to Right then could trade Soriano to St. Louis for Trever Miller, Brad Thompson, and Rick Ankiel
Paul Brown
June 24th, 2009
3:30 pm
If we had 05 Francouer right now we’d be in first place. I agree with some that said GA is finally settling in and will/is providing some offense, but Frenchy has got to get it going or just get going-outta town.
Paul Brown
June 24th, 2009
3:31 pm
We need to get a time machine and go get ‘05 Francour, if we had him we’d be in first right now.
Marshall
June 24th, 2009
3:33 pm
But if you want Adam Dunn the best option is trading Soriano, Francoeur, and Kotchman to Washington for Nick Johnson and Adam Dunn then they would have to move Diaz to right and Trade Anderson to an AL team for a prospect……and when Schafer is ready he could come back to take over right and the braves never really lost the arm strength from frenchy…..look at that Lineup 1-CF-McLouth, 2-2B-K.Johnson, 3-3B-Jones, 4-LF-Dunn, 5-C-McCann, 6-1B-N. Johnson, 7-SS-Escobar, 8-RF-Diaz, 9-P-Pitcher I believe that would make the Braves a contender immediately without losing anything
Marshall
June 24th, 2009
3:44 pm
I like the Braves bunting and running more on the paths you have to be aggressive and take chances to pressure on the opposing pitchers and the Braves had a non exsistant bunting and stealing game, I loved the Escobar bunt against the BOSOX over the weekend I’d like to see that more often with this team…Furcal use to help put pressure on pitchers and defenses lets go back to that mentality…
eaglejrm
June 25th, 2009
2:51 pm
Why the heck are you trading for Adam Dunn?? sure the man is good at getting on base, but have you ever watched him blunder around in the field, if you put the ball in the right-feild corner with Dunn out there, a man on crutches could get a triple. Frenchy has it in him and I think he’s starting to warm up just when we need him to, and even while he’s struggling at the plate he is still one of the best defensive rightfielders in the league.
NOW: You are complaining about Frenchy because he struggles at the plate…
MY PREDICTION: If we trade Frenchy for Dunn you will start complaining that Dunn is costing to many runs because he is blundering around right field like an idoit…
Now I’m not saying that a more consistant hitter in right wouldn’t be refreshing but ADAM DUNN is NOT the answer