Braves taking survival in playoff chase to new levels
Brian McCann didn't do too much Sunday -- just a homer, five RBI and a tiebreaking, two-run hit to give the Braves a 7-5 win over Florida. (AP photo)
Regardless of whether this Braves’ season ends in a division title, a wild card berth or one minor spasm short of the playoffs, this much can be said about them: They chose the most difficult way to get there.
Fall behind? Rally late.
Lose four regulars? Start an outfield worthy of camp Disney but somehow get by.
Drop game one of the series (again)? Feh! Come back and win the next two (again).
“I don’t know what the [expletive] is wrong with us – we lose the first game every time,” Bobby Cox said Sunday, the sting of those words softened by a slight smile and a post-game victory cigar.
They won again Sunday, 7-5. They won after blowing an early 3-0 lead and falling behind, 5-3, thanks to another dreadful start by Derek Lowe (20 hits and 13 runs, 11 earned, allowed in his last 8 2/3 innings). They won despite missing Nate McLouth and Garret Anderson and Martin Prado and Ryan Church or any semblance of a bench (pinch hitter: Javier Vazquez).
“Shorthanded is an understatement,” Chipper Jones said. “We’ve got nobody.”
Slight overstatement. They’ve got Brian McCann, who drove in five runs with a three-run crush job in the first and a tie-breaking two-run single in the eighth. They’ve also got a bullpen that held the Marlins to two hits after Lowe was carried out in the fifth.
Mostly, they have resolve.
They have lost game one in seven straight series of three games or more. But they have come back to win four of the last five of those series.
Just to be clear, Matt Diaz said: “We prefer not to lose game one. We would like to reverse that trend.”
Comforting.
How does this end? We can’t possibly know.
But this team is unique. It scraps, maybe like no Braves team we’ve seen in a while. Many point to the improved depth. That’s a factor. But it goes beyond that.
“You have a team where everybody wants to play,” coach Terry Pendleton said. “You have a team of guys who all know how to prepare themselves and work hard in the cage and in the field. We’ve had a few other teams where guys showed up every day. But this one stands out because a number of guys have been hurt but guys have stepped in to help the team keep pace. That says a lot.”
They are now a season-high eight games over .500 (66-58). Since June 28, they own the second-best record in the National League (32-18). The Phillies remain furlongs ahead in the East (6 ½ games with three games in hand). But Colorado is only four ahead in the wild card race, and the Braves have moved to within a game of second place San Francisco in that chase.
How did they make it this close? Still trying to figure that one out.
Cox: “We’ve been scrambling.”
Frank Wren: “There’s some resiliency there.”
Jones: “I like the fact that guys don’t hang their heads and remain confident and play better than we did after losing the first game. We come back late, we win on walk-off hits – all those things build character.
“If we can get to 10 games over .500 by the end of this month, with a ton of games left in our division, I like our chances, if not in the East, then the wild card.”
Lose one, win two. It’s not the path most chosen. Or preferred.
But the math works out the same.
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131 comments Add your comment
J-MAN
August 23rd, 2009
6:52 pm
FIRST
The Dust
August 23rd, 2009
6:57 pm
The Braves have to win 10 games in a ROW to matter.
Tim
August 23rd, 2009
7:00 pm
First(time ever)!!!
Brent
August 23rd, 2009
7:07 pm
I love this team. They really scratch and claw and pick each other up.
Mitch C
August 23rd, 2009
7:11 pm
Jeff, The Braves have been playing very well lately, especially with basicially their entire outfield gone.
I keep hoping that we can hit an even hotter streak, to catch Colorado. At 66-58, with 38 games left, if we play at our current pace of 8 games over the rest of the way, that would mean we would go 23-15, and finish with 89 wins. In other years, 89 would have gotten us a wild card, and even an NL East title. I’m thinking that we have to hope Colorado hits a dry spell, and that we can play something like maybe 25-13 or 26-12, to get us into the 90 plus win column. Joe Simpson and John Shambi said on Sports South today, that they thought 91 wins would be enough for the wild card. The way we’ve been playing, we can do that, but we have to hope a few other teams slow up.
Hopefully, our injured guys can get back soon. I really like the way this team is playing lately. Hopefully, we can make a run and get the wild card.
Mitch
J Clay
August 23rd, 2009
7:29 pm
Why Chipper always the one quoted and talking about the resolve and “having no one” and sure outs earlier in the year? The sure out is Chipper – followed closely by Johnson and Norton. Since Cox will not release Norton I can only hope he will not be hitting once the September call ups arrive. I realize Chipper has earned the right based on career performance not be benched – but thinking Cox should give him a series off when Prado, McLouth, Church return – can stick Infante at 3rd for a series, maybe then Chipper will get in gear. They need him down the stretch as I doubt McCann, as good as he is, can keep up this pace.
Bill in VA
August 23rd, 2009
7:29 pm
The Braves have a proven pinch hitter in Brooks Conrad at Gwinnett. Or, he could be starting at 2nd base, if KJ continues to struggle. Norton just isn’t a viable pinch hitter this year, for whatever reason.
jconservative
August 23rd, 2009
7:29 pm
It has been years since I enjoyed a Braves season like I have this year.
Injuries are killing the Braves but they are winning anyway. Four to five starters out this entire series & they win anyway.
God I love baseball!
Sonny Clusters
August 23rd, 2009
7:33 pm
We was doing the math and Jeff is right, this is doable. Now, Jeff has a quote from Chipper so we know they was talking today. What we want to know is if Jeff asked Chipper about the deerskin glove? Rumor has it that Chipper’s switched to deerskin and that’s why he can’t catch a cold. We was at the game Saturday night and a ball landed in that deerskin glove and popped right out.
Made on the ranch was what we was told. Lots of deerskin on the ranch.
We was wondering if we’d get a call tonight from New York. Somebody hit into an unassisted triple play to end the game and let Lidge escape from another beating. When we was playing ball together back in school we was always talking about the triple play but we never seen one. Now, we’ve hit into one.
We was watching Bobby in the dugout last night and he was leaning against the wall and strategizing real hard about the three run homer. We was pretty sure that’s why those runs didn’t score with men on and nobody out.
Ashley
August 23rd, 2009
7:35 pm
You people who type “FIRST” really need to get a life.
Country Boy
August 23rd, 2009
7:36 pm
I’m just glad we are in the playoff hunt in late Aug. Last year this time the Bravos were toast. Fun to watch a gritty team and notice we are winning even while Chipper is battling a horrible hitting slump.
dobearsbare
August 23rd, 2009
7:37 pm
Man, is Lowe a train wreck. If someone had told you that 124 games in, the biggest pitching acquisition would have an ERA nearing 5 and the Braves would still have a chance, would you seriously have believed it? Not me. But here they are.
MightyQuinn
August 23rd, 2009
7:43 pm
Gotta get Prado and McClouth healthy and Chipper being Chipper and Lowe being Lowe again! They are a fun bunch to watch though. The Braves keep teasin’ and I keep believin’!
BravesAreDone
August 23rd, 2009
7:58 pm
Once the outfield is healthy does Bobby pull Diaz right away against righty pitchers? Really to me it’s better for either McClouth or Anderson to be hurt, because that keeps Diaz in there every game where he should be. But I know how Bobby acts in those situations many times.
Jeff Schultz
August 23rd, 2009
8:01 pm
J-MAN – Congrats. Certificate will be mailed to you.
The Dust – 10 in a row? Kind of a tall order, don’t you think?
Tim – you never forget your first . . . comment.
Mitch C—I agree with Joe and Boog – I think 91 or 92 will get it done. Don’t think 89 will get it done.
Jeff Schultz
August 23rd, 2009
8:02 pm
Sonny — apologies. I forgot to ask Chipper about the deerskin glove. I did however ask him about the two dead possums in his locker but he declined comment.
Philliesuk
August 23rd, 2009
8:13 pm
I really hope we make the playoffs, but if we don’t, I will still view it as a great season. We are doing much better than I expected back in April. I always thought that 2010 was when we would break out and contend. I really like this team, and I have to commend Frank Wren for what he has done to improve this team.
I hope he gets the credit he deserves for the Vazquez trade. Javy has been one of the best pitchers in the National League, and is pitching like the ace we always wanted. Now, the question is, would there be any possible way to move Lowe to make room for Hudson? I would like to see this rotation: Vazquez, Jurrjens, Hudson, Hanson, Kawakami
JM
August 23rd, 2009
8:22 pm
Whether we make the playoffs or not this has been a really enjoyable season. I’ve got more hope for the future than I’ve had in a long time.
MBA Grad
August 23rd, 2009
8:23 pm
Great day for baseball. We had 10th row behind home plate to see the Braves rally for a 7-5 win over the Marlins, propelling us into 2nd place.
Meanwhile in NY, Jeff Francouer hits into only the second game-ending unassisted triple play in history.
Man, I love this game.
yall are crazy
August 23rd, 2009
8:25 pm
Ok enough of this “FIRST” bull$#!T. Seriously, grow up folks.
Sonny Clusters
August 23rd, 2009
8:25 pm
Jeff, we was reading up on deerskin. Deerskin leather is very soft and supple. It is ranked as the third strongest leather available but because deerskin is so elastic the leather can stretch out too much and then catching becomes difficult. We suspect that is what is going on with Chipper Jones. Playing with a deerskin glove makes sense when everybody else is using something else and you want to sell them some deerskin gloves made on the ranch. Still, catching something every now and then will make it work better. Marketing is marketing, though. We was never much into marketing when we was playing ball together back in school but we marketed Delta for a little while before we messed up.
We was noticing last night what a good pitcher Gonzales is. He works fast and the team seems to pick up when he’s in there. He goes after the hitter. We was always doing that back when we was playing ball together.
Last thing is, we was thinking Bobby looks a lot smarter when the pitchers are going good.
Reid Adair
August 23rd, 2009
8:26 pm
“Scrambling” is putting it mildlly. I just don’t see how they can continue to “scramble” and be in the playoff mix. Consistency – something the Braves lack significantly on offense – is critical.
Skeezix
August 23rd, 2009
8:30 pm
This has been quite an achievement, especially considering the number of injuries on top of Chipper’s slump. This team has had quality pitching most of the year, but now it is showing much more intelligence at the plate and they have developed heart. I think they started developing heart and gain confidence in themselves during the series against the Red Sox at Boston (when that jerk umpire Hohn stole a game away from us and threw Cox, Chipper and the pitcher out). Also, credit needs to go to the man who is guiding them – Bobby Cox.
Stephen
August 23rd, 2009
8:31 pm
Jeff what happened to all that “I’m gonna blog about coolstandings, and how to actually think about the odds that the Braves make the playoffs” talk???
MBA Grad
August 23rd, 2009
8:33 pm
And nice to see Greg “Rally Killer” Norton at the plate today with men in scoring position.
I’m sure the guy is a fine fellow, but for the life of me I can’t figure out why the H-double-hockey-stickes he is still on this team.
Ed-Covington
August 23rd, 2009
8:33 pm
The Bravos in the postseason hunt; the Falcons; Tech about to start their season; college & pro football about to dominate the media. Now this is the time of the year we can all enjoy.
Sonny Clusters
August 23rd, 2009
8:39 pm
Stinky Wintes was one of the best pinch hitters in high school ball. Stinky come to the plate ready to do some damage. When the pitcher rared back, so did Stinky. Then, he swung real hard and if he made contact that ball would go. If he didn’t get contact the scent of Stinky Wintes hung in the air and the ump would try to get him on base as quick as he could and away from the plate. Norton may be the next Stinky Wintes. He’s got nothing to lose.
Jeff Schultz
August 23rd, 2009
8:40 pm
JM – Agreed. I’ve said for a while that regardless what happens I thought this finish bodes well for next year (pending off-season moves, of course).
Stephen – I do want to blog about it this week. But I’d like to speak to somebody from the website and so far they haven’t responded to my requests. Do you know somebody there?
Train Wreck Bystander
August 23rd, 2009
8:40 pm
If y’all insist on this “first” bullsh*t, you should at least format it correctly:
First
Kenny J
August 23rd, 2009
8:41 pm
I love the team. I’m behind Frank Wren all the way, his moves proving themselves again and again, Not sure what he could do about all the injuries, nor Lowe’s current downturn. But there is one move left: Norton. Great guy, but they need a better bat in those situations. Maybe Brooks Conrad, maybe someone else. But Frank, it’s time. Could be a difference maker in one or two games, and as tight as all this is getting, that could spell OCTOBER BASEBALL. Or could spell FISHING and HUNTING for our guys.I still think they are built for the the post-season. Just gotta get there, which is proving harder than playing in Fall baseball itself might be for this gritty, pitching solid team could prove itself to be.
bravehawkfalcon
August 23rd, 2009
8:42 pm
gotta get healthy to have a shot at the playoffs
Sonny Clusters
August 23rd, 2009
8:47 pm
Jeff, we was wondering if you could use some help moving to Dunwoody? We was always moving people when we was out of work before we caught on with the second shift. We could move you over there with no trouble at all and without breaking nothing. We was wondering if the sports department is going to have its own room anymore or will it be merging with somebody else like gardening? If the new offices is narrow like the new paper we could help you find some narrower stuff to move. Let us know what you think.
erik
August 23rd, 2009
8:51 pm
We need Matt Holliday and one more big bat!
Herschel Talker
August 23rd, 2009
9:02 pm
Schultzie – I’m loving the spunk in the Braves lately, but I’m thinking that Lowe is going to cost us big time. Two straight games he coughed up big leads early. This is Jo Jo Reyes/Chuck James style. They can’t afford to have this guy go to crap right now. What do you think?
Are you getting excited about the upcoming high holiday season? Tekiah!!! Shevarim!!! Teruah!!!
Michael
August 23rd, 2009
9:07 pm
It’s easy math right now. To win the wild card, the Braves have to gain a game on the Rockies every week for the rest of the season. I think there are five weeks left, so that would put Atlanta on top by a game. This assumes that nobody else in the wild card goes Phillies hot, but that’s a pretty good strategy. Shoot, gain a game four out of five weeks and you at least get a playoff.
As far as the division, forget that mess unless there’s a sweep of the last series with Philly. They’re just too good over the long haul to make up 6 or 7 games unless Atlanta pulls off one of those insane streaks.
tiger297
August 23rd, 2009
9:11 pm
It is interesting to see Colorado loading up with veterans that nobody else wants for the roster expansion…is that a better gamble than pulling up kids from triple A? Also unless the Rockies fall of the map I think the wildcard will take 93 wins…that is where the Rockies will be if they go 23-15 (.56) the rest of the way which based on their schedule is almost easy to do
Jeff Schultz
August 23rd, 2009
9:39 pm
Sonny — I’m sure if you phone Julia, she’d love for you to help pack boxes.
Herschel — High Holidays coming up. D.Lowe needs to atone for last 2 starts.
Nativebird
August 23rd, 2009
9:48 pm
We need Chipper now more than at any time this season, but it doesn’t appear its coming. The elephant in the room, i.e. The question everyone is painfully yet transparently trying to avoid (and somebody, oh maybe a sports JOURNALIST with some stones should really ask) is “Is Chipper just having a bad year, or, is this finally the “beginning of the end” for the 37 year old everyday player with all the bad toes and strained oblique’s? The lack of HR’s was surely just chalked up to age, but we could always rely on the Average and RBI right? Now Mr. Wren finds himself surely avoiding this question.
Because the GM who clearly showed his strategy of Waiting-till-next-year with the (painfully Vanilla) LaRoche trade at the deadline, forget to tell the actual players on his squad! Now he has a team scrapping like Heck to make this post-season, missing THE one ingredient the GM THOUGHT he had…Mighty Chipper at the Bat. Taint happenin.
JO
August 23rd, 2009
9:52 pm
Unfortunately, the way the Phils and Rocks are playing, the Braves need to wine about 90% of the rest of their games to have any chance. Maybe 90 wins total…may not be enough for even the wildcard. But hey! I will take just missing the playoffs knowing that we will rock next year to fading back to last years’ team.
Sonny Clusters
August 23rd, 2009
10:01 pm
We saw Julia and Mike last night and we was hoping to maybe catch on with the new paper at moving time. We was thinking maybe me and you could ride in together. That way, we could give you some questions to ask at the ballpark and it wouldn’t be so hard and all with writing all the blogs, too. When we was playing ball together sometimes we would interview Jeff after a big game and write it up for the school paper so we’ve got some credentials. When we was playing ball together we was almost inseperable unless we wrote something Jeff didn’t like. That’s why we understand you not wanting to ask Chipper about the deerskin glove. The glove may not be the only one that’s a little tender.
Navigator
August 23rd, 2009
10:08 pm
Chipper’s career is on a downward spiral and he’s the highest paid player on the team, man did management blow it again. Shades of Andruw Jones repeating history, coming off a big year with a big contract and fading for the rest of the contract period. Something should have been obvious to the top guys from last year. He hit over .340 and had less than 100 rbi’s, which means a lot of those hits were when men weren’t on base in front of him. We know he never hit well in the world series (and mostly not during the playoffs either). I wonder if the Braves could trade him before next year to a team that’s one player away from being a good team, like Minnesota or Cleveland, and maybe unload some of his contract as well. It should be obvious now that the Braves have a couple of players that can fill in for Chipper and hit for a higher average, and probably play better defense.
Paul
August 23rd, 2009
10:15 pm
Pretty stoked about having Lowe for the next two years @ 20 mil.
Medlin deserves some recognition; kid has come around.
Greg Norton must be real close with Bobby Cox – the commitment to this guy is amazing.
We left eleven on base today….
Reid in EAV
August 23rd, 2009
10:16 pm
OK, Schultz, you cracked me up with the High Holidays riff. To what address shall I send my basket o’ sweetness? (And is the Sept. stretch drive the reason we’ve seen so few top-notch Jewish ballplayers, Hank Greenberg notwithstanding? And even he refused to play ball on Yom Kippur, I must add…)
toh3llwithgeorgia
August 23rd, 2009
10:17 pm
Hey Navigator shut the hell up, Chipper is the man.
PMC
August 23rd, 2009
10:27 pm
Now the team has guys like Ryan Church, McCann, Matt Diaz… that play HARD. Chipper is older but he’s still got great focus. While that isn’t normally Laroche’s forte… guys got decent pop isn’t an easy out this time of year and he plays a good first base.
If they didn’t have Lowe they wouldn’t have a chance this year, if they didn’t overpay Lowe… he wouldn’t be here. At least he’s pitching. Slumps happen, he’ll come out of it, and he’s not just making 50 million while “rehabing his sore pectorals…”
Still love what Frank Wren has done so far.
richbrave
August 23rd, 2009
10:35 pm
I think missing a start would be beneficial for LOWE. He’s just older. I think he needs a break. Let MEDLIN have a start in his place, and later in the season HUDSON if he’s ready.
BTW JEFF, we buried the BRAVES in late-June, but these zombies just keep rising from the grave. Maybe they should adopt that nick-name this season. They just won’t be stopped.
richbrave
August 23rd, 2009
10:36 pm
Looks like teams will start pitching to CHIPPER again with BRIAN back on the tom-o-hawk trail.
I got Questions
August 23rd, 2009
10:44 pm
Is there a stat in baseball on the average number of pitches a batter takes per at bat? Maybe a player like Kelly Johnson has more value than most of us give him credit for. In today’s stats versus the Marlins, Johnson had 29 pitches thown him. McCann had 16 pitches. Making a pitcher go deep into the count shortens the time a pitcher will be in the game.
Also — could you ask some of the Braves if fouling off pitches a skill that they work on in batting practice. Does Kelly Johnson work on this or is it just something that happens?
BravesFan79
August 23rd, 2009
10:46 pm
GG…. 2 bad Colorado didnt loose. We gotta go on a winning streak while Colorado has this tough schedule coming up.
How about SMOLTZ!! wheres all the idiots that said he was “washed up”!?? I told everyone on here he wasnt done, and i was right! 9k, 5in, 0 runs. Look for Smoltz to be an important piece of the Cardinals run to the World Series!
Tmmeh
August 23rd, 2009
10:55 pm
“We’ve had a few other teams where guys showed up every day”
Was that a shot at Jeff Francour? Cause up until last year, Jeff had the longest active streak for consecutive games played.
MightyQuinn
August 23rd, 2009
11:18 pm
Hey Jeff, has any team in the modern era ever used a six man rotation for any period of time with any success? I personally can’t recall any but I defer to your infinite sports wisdom and resources.
Bob
August 23rd, 2009
11:22 pm
Instead of doing the 8 games over .500 bit, or looking for a 10 game winning streak, we continue to put pressure by winning 6 or 7 out of 10. There are 10 games to Labor Day weekend. The Braves need to win at least 7 of these. The next 9 are against Cin, Hou, and Stl. The Stl will be a huge test for possible post-season. Here, at least 6-3. The next 9 are against the Phils & Mets. Again, 6-3 at least. That leaves the last 10 against the Fish & Nats – 6 of 10 here, and we have 91 wins. I do not want to go into the last 10 games having to win 7 or 8 out of 10. Quite, consistent, winning each series one at a time, will get us in.
gobravos
August 23rd, 2009
11:41 pm
It is sooooo nice to see the braves at it again in the playoff race again. After the off-season, I was expecting to be looking forward to football season at this time, but the bravos have been somewhat of a surprise in my opinion. I am so excited about Hanson coming into his own at the big league level. Its amazing to see kids my age excelling at the major league level. You have to admit that seeing 22, 23, 25, and 26 year-olds carrying the team is impressive to say the least. I think we have a lot of brighter days to look forward to with a nice young core of Hanson, JJ, McCann, and Escobar. Plus if Freeman and HEYWARD come up and contribute at all its huge. I must say I would be really pumped if the team had another arm like Neftali, who is throwin hammer-torches at hitters for Texas, but the past is the past and its time to move on towars the future. Whatever they do this year IS Gravy. Honestly, I don’t think they have a snowball’s chance in hell in the playoffs if they get there, and I’d rather not see them get swept in October and hear the poo poo talk from all of my friends for rooting for the Braves. The Braves are notorious for not hitting once they get to the post-season, and for that reason this team really worries me if they do get there. The bottom line is that this organization as a whole has to continue to improve because the Phils aren’t going away and the Mets will be back. The Marlins always scare me. That team, if they stay together, is going to be something special. The Braves, whether they like it or not, play in the most competitive division in baseball. There are no easy series. These guys are paid a lot of money to win, and they can. They just have to quit just showing up on game days, which this team obviously does from time to time. They have to play consistent ball like the old braves used to do on a regular basis.
Sonny Clusters
August 23rd, 2009
11:46 pm
We was downsized at the plant so don’t let it bother you going to Dunwoody. They is some nice places there and you will be real close to the mall if you need some shoes or some sunglasses.
We was reading that Lowe and LaRoche both have ADHD and we had that too with Comcast until recently. We can never tell what station the Braves will be on and we was thinking it may be best to listen to the radio and read Jeff the next morning.
keith
August 23rd, 2009
11:52 pm
Resolve – Yes. Resillency – Definitely. When the Braves lost the first game (in another walk-off, Soriano fashion) to the Dodgers, I was so frustrated and disappointed that I gave up. I said if they come back to win the next 3 to let me know…cause at that point I would start watching and caring again. I’ve been watching (again) ever since!
I will say that we MUST put together a 6 or 7 game winning streak to really be in it. Most divisions and wildcards with this kind of stretch would have right in the mix, but Colorado and Philly have been fantastic, too. It has given me hope the last few weeks and more hope about the coming few years.
We MUST continue to win the series and put together a serious streak (more than 5 games in my opinion) to really have a shot.
Jeff – Hudson: Should he be the closer or starter?
cdog
August 24th, 2009
12:01 am
great job bobby but please get kelly johnson off the field asap. even if you have to call up a aa player, just get him off the field. chipper, stop trying to be barry bonds at the plate and stay in their and drive the ball. your homeruns will come. glad to see soriano righting himself. there is no hope for kelly johnson. i am wondering how did he become a professional ball player? he’s terrible.
UltimateBravesFan
August 24th, 2009
12:02 am
To start, anyone that mentions benching Chipper must be out of their mind. The guy is in a horrendous slump yea, but he has been the staple of the franchise since the mid 90’s and has carried the team on his back quite a few times between then and now. You don’t bench a guy with that capability who just won a batting title the previous season because he is slumping and insert someone like Prado or Infante in his place. (No dig on those guys as I love them both, especially Prado). Finally, the guy hasn’t been seeing any pitches during McCann’s slump. With McCann hitting maybe Chipper will start seeing some pitches to hit.
Injuries could hamper us from getting back into the playoffs this season, but just getting two of the four guys back would be good enough thanks to the utility of Infante. If we can get an outfielder back, to me at least I’d prefer seeing McClouth back, we can get Gorcecki out of there. Then we just need Prado back to play 2B and get KJ back to the bench. Also getting GA or Chruch back would allow Infante to play 2B if Prado’s headaches continue to occur.
One thing I noticed while watching todays game that “I Got Questions” hit on the head is KJ’s patience at the plate. I appreciate this hitting style. The guy is in a horrendous slump, and is, simply overmatched by pitchers a good amount of the time. But we are forced to play him and drawing two walks and taking 29 pitches over the course of the game is a way to help the team even if you can’t hit the broadside of a barn.
Medlen is nasty. His changeup is disgusting, I like the kid more every time I see him.
curtis jones
August 24th, 2009
12:29 am
1. Lowe will probably end up costing the Braves a trip to the playoffs. He can’t hold a lead, and when his one pitch doesn’t work, he’s toast. Even when his one pitch does work, it requires four infielders who can catch a ground ball. The Braves have good fielders at short and first, but that’s it.
2. Speaking of Kelly Johnson, what does it say about the HOF manager that he continues to put a no-hit, no-field “2nd baseman” out there during a playoff battle, while Brooks Conrad continues to toil away in AAA?
3. Kris Medlen is lights out. Something Derek Lowe is not. Switcheroo? I know Lowe cashes a million dollar check every other week, but he’s atrocious.
4. Y’all like that Matt Diaz kid? The one who hits and hustles? Yeah, that’s the same guy Bobby benched the first 80 games, in favor of guaranteed outs like Schafer and Franceour.
5. We’re down to 2 healthy outfielders. Take a ride up I-75 to Chattanooga between now and Wednesday, and tell me that Jason Heyward isn’t ready for a call-up. He’s solid as a rock, hits ropes, and has the best OF arm in the Braves organization. Fires lasers from RF to 3B and home plate. He’s far more qualified to be playing in the bigs, right now, than Gorecki.
chemdawg
August 24th, 2009
12:32 am
Schultz, do you need some help describing Bill James pythagorean theorem and playoff odds simulations? I have a feeling some blog topics come from my comments…
Johnny Anderson
August 24th, 2009
12:46 am
This team needs a big bat the last month of the season. And with limited funds, the chances of us bringing in a difference maker is slim. SO…why not bring Heyward up the final month? He is probably better than any option they can find. And let’s face it, he will more than likely be with the big club by next season at some point anyway. I saw the kid go deep in March at Disney as well as bring a home run back in RF, so ya know he can play some D. I would really like to see the kid help this team over the final month.
J
Under Rated!!
August 24th, 2009
12:51 am
Why is it the Braves have got guys going down daily and are doing outstanding and the Mets have been in this boat pretty much all season and not responding as we have, and you hear the excuse about the Mets from the national media yet no one stops to say that the Braves backups are the ones getting it done! Got to love (hate) the New York and LA media… Go Braves!!!!
Who would have thought in March that one of our problems is what do you do when your team has SIX great pitchers?!!!
Bravid
August 24th, 2009
12:57 am
The Braves need to get healthy & fast. 38 games left, we need to win at least 25 to have a chance at the wild card. The Phillies just don’t seem to have any give in em. 6.5 out of first is a giant gap to cover in 38 games against the World Champs. So we have to win at least 25 games the rest of the way. This is the stretch run & I think the Braves have a legit chance to get into the playoffs.
Tom
August 24th, 2009
1:30 am
We certainly are running out of time. It’s now August 23rd and we are 4 games out in the wild card race. On July 23rd we were 3.5 games out; on June 23, 4 games out; and on May 23rd, 3.5 games out. Hopefully, things change before Sept 23rd.
Philliesuk
August 24th, 2009
1:35 am
Those of you who advocate putting Chipper on the bench are insane. He won the batting title last year. He is still one of the most feared hitters in the lineup. He is in a bad slump, and he will come out of it. Just be patient; we are still winning games.
Coach (2010 or Bust)
August 24th, 2009
3:09 am
All the statements from Bobby Cox and the players aside……this is a very mediocre baseball team being carried by some great pitching, including Derek Lowe.
Bash Lowe all ya’ll want over his last two starts, he still leads the team in quality starts with 19. Prior to these last two dreadful starts he had reeled off seven quality starts in a row and the team has went 16-11 over the course of Lowe’s 27 starts. I think Derek Lowe has been worth every cent so far.
I’m satisfied with the 66-58 record as I expected this team to win. Although I’m not expecting them to make the playoffs. They are too slow on the base paths, Don’t hit for enough power and the outfield is a joke….ten guys have manned it already!!!
The good news is, this team is a lead off hitter and one big right handed bat away from being a playoff contender, but the off season will be challenging. LaRoche and Soriano have to be resigned, period. I doubt the Braves have any shot at keeping Gonzo, he want’s to close and that opportunity has passed in Atlanta.
We have six starters, somebody will be traded like it or not and I don’t like it.
Jordan Schafer and Jason Heyward will be big question marks next season? Will they both contribute in 2010? Only time will tell.
I love Bobby Cox but the old man has worn out his welcome. Winning record aside, he has done a bad job of managing this year. Example: Not benching Francoeur or KJ until after the damage was already done. Greg Norton has no business playing baseball and everybody knows it except Cox. Bobby’s mismanagement of the pitching is evidenced by the fact that three of the Braves bullpen pitchers rank in the top six in game appearances among all major league pitchers. The inning totals from 2006-07 and 08 thrown by their respective bullpens were the three highest totals in the entire history of the Braves since 1966. Not to mention the non-coincidence of losing Leo Mazzone after the 2005 season.
I could go on and on. Cox needs to retire as every year he continues to manage the man tarnishes his own Hall of Fame resume.
So far it’s been a good year but not good enough to be called playoff worthy as of yet.
1966 Falcons
August 24th, 2009
3:45 am
SIXTY-SIXTH!
Bob
August 24th, 2009
7:03 am
Rolling Stone in the blogroll- how avant garde
JeanE
August 24th, 2009
7:56 am
I absolutely love this team! And when Chipper says “We’ve got nobody”, he means you, Greg Norton!! These guys never give up & play tough every out, every inning, ba— to the wall! Led by Capt. Caveman, Matty Diaz!! And Brian McCann, our fearless, mypoic leader! And I resent calling this outfield, Camp Disney. Garret Anderson may be able to hit but he can’t field any longer. We find ways to win. Despite Derek Lowe (can we stop calling him our ace now?) And without Chipper being healthy or able to contribute offense or defense. Go Braves!!
Bravesgal
August 24th, 2009
8:04 am
Your “blog” about Tommy Hanson’s first start look pretty stupid now don’t they? Were you really at one time a journalist?
JeanE
August 24th, 2009
8:06 am
Also, Chipper isn’t done, he’s hurting. Big time. Wrists, I think, he said. He needs rest but can’t get it b/c of injuries. Also, I will be majorly PO’d if Bobby starts pulling Matty D. out against Righties! He is a spark plug for this team, he has proven he can play & hit every day & he should be rotated in the outfield to keep him in there!
Brian
August 24th, 2009
8:20 am
Hey Navigator…Chipper is the fourth highest paid player on the team this year.
braveshoo
August 24th, 2009
8:29 am
Laroche has been a great move. The guy loves the Braves,and plays better in a Braves uniform. He may not be Ryan Howard, but he is the only Brave who will hit 30 homeruns and we need to resign him for the next 2-3 years. Conrad for Norton. Lowe will be OK. Sign Hudson for next year. We have his option for 12 million. This gives us 6 starting pitchers, but other teams always need starting pitching Then we can trade Hudson or Vasques or Lowe and get an excellent relief pitcher and good prospects, including a stud who can eventually relace Chipper, and save 11.5 to 15 million. Our starting piching will still be Hudson/Vasques/Lowe (2 of 3),JJ,Hanson,& KK-probably the best in baseball, especially with Medlin in reserve.
Hillbilly Deluxe
August 24th, 2009
8:33 am
If I was the Marlins, I don’t think I would have pitched to McCann with first base open and one out, but hey that’s why they’re in the Big Leagues and I’m here doing whatever it is that I do, right?
You have to hand it to this Braves team; at least they don’t quit.
Jeff Schultz
August 24th, 2009
8:35 am
Nativebird, other – Chipper has been asked about the season and has answered. I had some comments from him recently about him being disappointed in the lack of power, etc. As for this being the career slide, that’s a little premature. As for this being a “bad” year – obviously HRs and avg are down, but he’s also hitting .363 with MISP.
Reid – pretty sure the High Holidays isn’t the reason there aren’t more Jewish players. In my case, I was slow and couldn’t hit.
MightyQuinn – Don’t think so. And for what it’s worth, I think some folks are getting carried away with the Hudson stuff. We shouldn’t assume he’s major-league ready or major-league strong after that surgery. Not saying he’s not. Just saying he’s got a lot to prove.
Chemdawg – Uhhh….. yeah.
Coach – I’ve never suggested Derek Lowe was a bad pitcher. I’ve just said you don’t want him as your No. 1 starter, which is what he was signed to be.
Bob – Would you prefer bikerchicksfromdesmoines.com?
Bravesgal – Stupid how? He got drilled and wrote he got drilled.
Brian
August 24th, 2009
8:52 am
Here’s a tough but doable scenario: Sweep SD at home, lose 2 of 3 in Philly, split 2 of four in Florida, sweep Cincy at home, win 2 of 3 at Houston, lose 2 of 3 at St. Louis, sweep NY at home, win 2 of 3 at home from Philly, win 2 of 3 at NY, sweep in DC, win 2 of 3 at home vs. Florida, win 3 of 4 at home vs. the Nats.
That’s 27-11 to end the year, putting us at 93 wins. The way things are looking, we’re gonna need about 93 wins, IMO. Favorable schedule the last couple weeks…that scenario has us going 15-4 over the last 19.
Blackberry Cobbler
August 24th, 2009
8:53 am
If you really need someone to come through in the clutch, look to McCann. Chipper is pathetic. It’s now even more clear who the real leader is on this team. It’s McCann. Chippers better days are behind him now. Frankly, he’s a liability defensively and offensively. I’d just as soon see Infante at 3B.
Angus
August 24th, 2009
8:54 am
13 games in 13 days. Two series on the road vs the Phils & Fish, book-ended by home series with two of the NL’s worst.
While I’d love to see some damage done in Philly & So. FL, I expect .500 ball (+/- a game).
Taking care of business vs SD and Cincy is a must (5 out of 6).
If some guys don’t get healthy, this 13 in 13 could kill us.
JEZ
August 24th, 2009
9:01 am
Nobody mentioned that Aaron cook from the rockies went on the DL. Hopefully that will put a little damper in the rockies’ flame and we can catch ground on them
Sonny Clusters
August 24th, 2009
9:03 am
We was wanting Jeff to know that we was going to Camp David for a few days and might not be blogging because they may not be an internet connection out there in the woods. They didn’t say if they got wi-fi. Anyway, when we get back we’ll be happy to help with the move and any baseball questions Jeff may have. After all, we was state championship.
Sonny Clusters
August 24th, 2009
9:08 am
We was also noticing how many people call Jeff stupid on here and it’s his blog. Jeff may be the last journalist at the paper and when they move he may be the only one in Dunwoody that can conjugate. We was always admiring those that can write as good as us and Jeff is one. Jeff, they is a Dairy Queen on Ashford Dunwoody Road and we can go there for lunch. Your buddy, Sonny Clusters, state championship
Brian
August 24th, 2009
9:14 am
People sure do turn on players quickly. The venom being spewed about Chipper is pretty amazing. I guess he got some fans pretty spoiled. He’s 37 years old…only his recent frigid spell put his average under .300. I don’t think people realize how hard it is to hit .300, especially at his age. Only 23 players in modern MLB history hit over .300 at age 37 or older. Twelve of them are in the Hall of Fame. 2 others are Pete Rose and Barry Bonds. Chipper still has an OBP over .400. Only 15 players have done that for a season at age 37 or older. 11 of those 15 are in the Hall of Fame or named Rose or Bonds.
Braves Mom
August 24th, 2009
9:22 am
Even if they don’t make the playoffs, at least it is still fun to watch in late August and the games are meaningful.
Chipper needs to heat up.
Should Hudson start in place of Lowe when he is ready? Lowe seems to be falling apart.
As a fan, I am remaining hopeful!
Bench KJ
August 24th, 2009
9:26 am
KJ seems like a very nice guy, but he is a defensive liability. I hold my breath every time a ball is hit to 2B … even on slow-rollers. If he was hitting a ton, then maybe you could tolerate some bad defense, but he’s not hitting much either. Need to bring Conrad back up from Gwinnett. Sorry, KJ, but the conversion from OF to 2B just isn’t working at a major league level.
Bat Masterson
August 24th, 2009
9:33 am
I got a kick out of John Kruk saying the wild card was the Braves to lose last night on ESPN.
Bravo
August 24th, 2009
9:35 am
84th!
Bravo
August 24th, 2009
9:35 am
And 85th!
Born in the ATL
August 24th, 2009
9:35 am
YES WE McCANN! YOU ARE THE MAN!
Coach (2010 or Bust)
August 24th, 2009
9:37 am
Jeff Schultz, I agree with you totally. Derek Lowe isn’t an Ace but he is a very good two starter.
As far as Tim Hudson goes, I’m a big fan ( he’s from my hometown) and Hudson is an Ace. It’s just that the rotation isn’t broke and it doesn’t need fixing. Hudson is barely one year removed from TJ surgery, it’s too soon for Huddy to be counted on. Keep him in the minors or the bullpen until 2010.
Jeff Schultz
August 24th, 2009
9:45 am
Sonny – thanks for noticin’ my conjugating. I heard when people wuz in prison they asked for conjugatin’ visits, but I don’t know about that because I never been to prison. I’ll have to practice my conjugating at the DQ on Ashford Dunwoody.
Bravo — You rock!
wreckmaniac
August 24th, 2009
9:45 am
Also the Braves have decided to get serious right at the moment where
the Phils look like they will never lose again and Florida is playing
like world series wannabees.
wreckmaniac
August 24th, 2009
9:49 am
Not one game has been gained on Phil or the Rocks in the past week. The
Braves picked the wrong time to get hot.
Arkansas Transplant
August 24th, 2009
9:56 am
I’m really thinking that it’s going to take a winning streak of 6 or more games to get this thing close. I just don’t think winning 2 of 3 will get it done this year.
But once again, Lowe disappoints!! He’s just plain terrible!! He better be glad this wasn’t a contract year, but he’s got his money so what does he care?
Brian
August 24th, 2009
9:58 am
This is one indicator that the Braves are going to have to get even hotter: They’ve gone 5-2 over their last 7 games, and according to Baseball Prospectus, their odds of making the playoffs has decreased over that span. Over the last two weeks, we have lost more than 5% odds for each loss and gained less than 2% per win.
Smooth
August 24th, 2009
10:00 am
Jeff, I think you should move to Philly with all the other Brave haters! What we really need is for Kelly Johnson to get sent down along with our young center fielder who played yesterday. We have Conrad down there just waiting to come up and help, and we all know that we have a very good center fielder who could bring up to help out. How many games has Church actually played for us? I think we would have been better off keeping Frenchy who never missed a game.
midnite
August 24th, 2009
10:01 am
Would 38-0 the rest of the way be good for some of you? Enough of the Braves having inconsistent hitting, the Braves have a team BA of .265. That is better than the Rockies and Giants, who we are chasing for the WC. Also better than the Cardinals and Philly.
Brian
August 24th, 2009
10:03 am
This is what I call baseball relativity: Because of their track records, both Chipper and Lowe are being described here as “terrible”, despite the fact that both have been above average (Chipper well above average) this season. Once Chipper goes on a 12-game hit streak and Lowe wins 3 starts in a row, they’ll be superheroes once again. Oh, those crazy sports fans…
Arkansas Transplant
August 24th, 2009
10:14 am
Midnite, BA says nothing. Did you know as a team you can hit .500 in an inning and still not score a run? We need more consistent hitting in clutch situations, not so much just the hitting. There is a difference.
Smooth, let me guess.. you were one of those praising Schafer when he was hitting in the first 10 games of the season. Just cause Conrad hit when he was up in limited playing time doesn’t make him a superstar, but I’m also not disagreeing with you over of Johnson either. Something needs to be done there, but I don’t think the fix is Conrad.
curtis jones
August 24th, 2009
10:20 am
I still see some Derek Lowe worshippers on here. One question concerning your favorite $ 60 million dollar “ace:” Let’s say there’s a one-game playoff to break a tie and get into post-season. It’s Lowe’s turn in the rotation. Do you trust him with the ball? I don’t.
The only thing he’s thrown with any authority lately was the Gatorade cooler in the dugout Sunday after his latest lead-blowing flameout. He’s the # 5 guy right now, maybe 6th or 7th behind Hudson and Medlen.
Arkansas Transplant
August 24th, 2009
10:23 am
Brian, you can be rest-a-sured I WILL NOT jump on the Lowe bandwagon even if he wins every game the rest of the season. He’s never impressed me.
curtis jones
August 24th, 2009
10:24 am
Let’s hope there are changes made before the AAA Padres arrive Tuesday. The Braves gutted out a win Sunday despite having only 6 major league hitters in the lineup, and zero on the bench. Great pitching (after Lowe of course) and heroics from Mac, Diaz, etc. who are carrying this team.
Cox lucked up again. What if recent games had gone to extra innings? We’d be seeing Kawakami in the outfield. Come to think of it, he’d be an improvement over Garret. Kawakami shows more hustle shagging flies in BP than Garret does in a game.
Brian
August 24th, 2009
10:29 am
Haha…curtis jones’ comment sums up Bobby Cox haters. When the Braves win, “Cox lucked up again”. He gets no credit for the Braves winning a series against a good team with all the injuries and the short bench. It’s actually kind of hilarious.
McFann ;Ô;
August 24th, 2009
10:31 am
Hillbilly Deluxe If I was the Marlins, I don’t think I would have pitched to McCann with first base open and one out
I was thinking they’d walk him, too–but he was 0-5 with 4 K’s against Pinto, so the Marlins thought the odds were in their favor.
Thankfully they were wrong!
Great game!
midnite
August 24th, 2009
10:40 am
Ark Trans – I don’t believe I said anything about Shafer. I will say in my opinion I think he was rushed. You missed my point about about team BA. I said the Braves BA was higher than other teams with better W-L records, just to clarify. We need Prado back at 2B…bad.
Arkansas Transplant
August 24th, 2009
10:42 am
Prado at second, I would have to agree. I still wish we has one more basher in the lineup. Someone that could play LF or RF on a daily basis.
fieldofdreams
August 24th, 2009
10:46 am
To all my Jewish friends: read Galatians 4:10, call on Jesus.
curtis jones
August 24th, 2009
10:58 am
Well, Brian it’s true. If Cox had his way, Diaz wouldn’t be in the lineup. He is only playing because all of Coxie’s favorites either flamed out, or are injured.
Brian
August 24th, 2009
11:07 am
curtis jones, Diaz has started 20 of the last 23 games, well before injuries to Anderson, Church, and McLouth.
And he still hitting just .255 against righties, and .377 against lefties. Compare that to Anderson (.280), Church (.270), and McLouth (.295) against righties.
Jim Millard
August 24th, 2009
11:20 am
If the trend continues the braves will be chasing down the dodgers in a couple of weeks
sammy Roberts
August 24th, 2009
11:21 am
Maybe Chipper was talking about his self ! It would help if Cox or Roger would just go out help the pitchers refocus when they get into trouble! They seem to be glued to the bench!
tommyc
August 24th, 2009
11:28 am
Has anyone looked at the schedule of the teams that are ahead of the Braves for the rest of the year. Colorado by far has the easiest schedule. They have their next 7 or so games against the Dodgers and Giants. After that nearly everyone else they play are below 500 teams
Richard Weiss
August 24th, 2009
11:30 am
I just want to add that Bobby Cox is past his prime and needs to gracefully retire. He almost always leaves a pitchein way too long until the damage is near irreparable. Other good managers, for example Freddy Martinez, will take their starter out much sooner than later, and replace him with a strong reliever. They don’t wait for the inevitable HR or extra base hit with runners on after the tiring starter (or one who just doesn’t have it that day), walks a few and is getting hit hard. Even a novice can see that it’s time for a fresh arm yet BC just sits there and …waits (what’s he thinking about, anyway?).
Other thing. Norton is an automatic out. Can’t hit a fast ball (or much else come to think of it). Why is he even there? And, needing replaacement outfielders, where did they find that CF Groecke? Surely, there must be someone in the minors who can hit better than that. Most of his swings are a mile off the ball and I’m actually amazed when the ball somehow hits his bat. What about Conrad? – infinitely better!
Scott B (Montgomery, AL)
August 24th, 2009
11:34 am
Regardless if the Braves make the post season or not, what they have done as a team this year will benefit them as they head into 2010. If anyone deserves a multi-year deal with some financial security, it’s Matt Diaz. The guy has been outstanding. Wren would also be wise to lock up Yunel Escobar. With the young arms they have (JJ, Hanson, Medlen) the future is full of hope. Add to that the promising potential of some young guys down on the farm (Heyward, Freeman, Minor, etc), I’d say Atlanta is primed for another stretch of post-season appearances. I would love to see it happen this year, of course, but it’s been a very good year for this team. GO BRAVES!!!
London Calling
August 24th, 2009
11:46 am
All this love for Brooks Conrad is ludicrous. The guy is a career minor-leaguer, a .250 singles hitter who can’t even field that well. Yet you halfwits treat him as the second coming of Ted Williams on the basis of about 30 at-bats! Get a grip. You’d be hating him inside a week if he came back up.
As for Reid Gorecki. If any of you cared to check the AAA stats, you’d see he’s been hitting far better than Brandon Jones or any of the other alternatives. Yet you hate on him after less than a week. Are you the same people who are always saying “bring up the young players”? Why? So you’d have a bigger choice to hate on?
Phil
August 24th, 2009
11:51 am
Brian,
Can you explain Cox using Norton as a pinch hitter with the bases loaded? The very next inning he had Anderson up to use as a pinch hitter. Why didn’t he use Anderson instead of Norton with the bases loaded? The man is an idiot, the Braves are REALLY doing it the hard way as the blog pointed out with Cox in the dugout.
Reid in EAV
August 24th, 2009
12:01 pm
I forsook the don’t-miss Braves-Fish game yesterday afternoon to venture out to East BF, Buford/Lawrenceville (home of the least fan-friendly ballpark in all of the minors) to see six innings from Huddy (and have a vacuum-hose hooked up to my wallet, but that’s another story).
What can I say? He looked really strong. Even struck out the side in the 4th on an economical 11 pitches (yes, I’m a compulsive scorekeeper) and would have escaped with only a lone run if not for some AAA-level defense behind him. (I had NEVER seen a 3B and SS collide when going for the same ball, but I have now!)
The control seemed to be there, too. Didn’t even come close to walking anyone for the first five frames, and only notched one in the 6th that seemed to be a function of fatigue. Yes, doing it against AAA hitters vs. Hanley Ramirez, Ryan Howard, et. al. is two different things, but I can’t wait to see him back with the big club.
On another matter, we need to figure out a way to trade Canizares to an AL club for something valuable in return. Dude can rake with the bat, but his fielding shakiness is well-documented. He’s a “natural” DH if there ever were one… and I love Brian Barton’s speed. Not enough of that with the big club, especially with McLouth’s absence.
Joe Fan
August 24th, 2009
12:25 pm
I for one certainly hope Medlin cracks the rotation next year and the Braves are able to unload a starting pitcher or two for talent that will upgrade the offense. I am also not getting my hopes up that Hudson’s option will be exercised. Can’t see anyway the Braves will take a chance on his arm for $10 million. And hopefully Braves management will also tell Bobby that its time to take a seat in the Boardroom and install a manager that has the energy and experience to lead this team going forward.
ChopperATL
August 24th, 2009
12:30 pm
Am I the only one that reads Sonny’s posts and wonders if anyone can really be that ignorant? “We was…??? Really?
JEZ
August 24th, 2009
12:38 pm
chopper, you’re not alone. If payroll allows and Huddy can prove himself I would love to see him back in a braves uni next year. Guy loves it here and we love him here. He’s a proven competitor who has always been able to get guys out and has a winning attitude.
Brian
August 24th, 2009
12:53 pm
Phil, I’m not inside his head, so I don’t know for sure, but I would think he only was going to use Anderson as a last resort because of his injury. You probably noticed he didn’t actually pinch hit yesterday…he was just in the on-deck circle to give Gorecki some pitches to hit. The Marlins would have intentionally walked Gorecki if they put Vazquez on deck. Obviously, it worked out, because the Braves won.
Brent
August 24th, 2009
1:01 pm
For what it’s worth, Conrad is red-hot right now. Over his past 10 games, he’s hitting .395 with 9 extra-base hits and 14 RBI. As for the post that said he’s a “singles hitter”, Brooks has 20+ HR in each of the past 4 seasons at AAA and no fewer than 60 XBH in each of the past 3 seasons. He does hit for a middling average and strike out a good bit, but give the guy his due. He’s gotta be a step above Norton’s .145 average.
NO MORE BOBBY
August 24th, 2009
1:09 pm
This team actually has what it takes to win. Just hope the manager does not mess it up.
1. Playing Kelly Johnson
2. Norton – need I say more?
3. Misusing the bullpen
Stay away from these three things and we have a shot.
Bubba Clusters
August 24th, 2009
1:12 pm
ChopperATL I’ll have you know thet my Brother Sonny was the most smartest one in our hole fambly. Me an Him will whup yore but if we kin find you. You better knot call him inorunt any more. You is just jelus that him and jeff one state champions.
Brian
August 24th, 2009
1:13 pm
Does nobody realize how dumb it would be to release Norton or someone else a week before rosters expand? Let’s see…do you drop him now and add Conrad’s two or three at-bats this week, or do you wait a week and have both on the roster for September? Hmm…
Conrad will be here in a week, everybody. Calm down.
brvsfaninknoxville
August 24th, 2009
1:16 pm
Jeff,
Kind of an intriguing thought: I see a striking similarity of Greg Maddux in Medlin, and Glavine in Hanson (even though not a lefty) when they were young upandcomers. Medlin is nasty with his pitch placement and has that kind of nerdy way about him. Hanson being consistant, cool, calm, icy and focused much like Glavine was back in the day. And they share the same first name! Could we be witnessing the rebirth of the “young guns” of the 90’s????
BravesLover
August 24th, 2009
1:25 pm
Don’t worry about Chipper as it’s time for him to get hurt. My personal bet was it would be this weekend and I thought I was right on when he did the major grimace after swinging and missing. He’ll be out for a week before long then he’ll get fired up to come back and play great. Sit his fanny down otherwise. He’s a killing machine for our guys in the field and at bat. Third option is to bat him 7th. No excuse $14 million dollar man. Play the game right or take your toys and go home.
Hillbilly Deluxe
August 24th, 2009
1:35 pm
Jeff’
You might want to rethink that Dunwoody Dairy Queen thing. I don’t think it’s legal to conjugate in public there.
ChopperATL
August 24th, 2009
1:46 pm
Bravo Bubba. My apologies to you and yer hole fambly.
Nova Scotia Steve
August 24th, 2009
2:00 pm
It hasn’t been easy that’s for sure…and I’ve never been one to say we HAVE TO sweep a team.
But a sweep of San Diego would be aweful nice…let’s put it that way
NO MORE BOBBY
August 24th, 2009
2:01 pm
Brian – Are you sure your not Bobby Cox?
Brian
August 24th, 2009
2:05 pm
NO MORE BOBBY:
Am I sure my what isn’t Bobby Cox?
Seriously, though, I’m just a supporter. Just like you can find anything to complain about if you look hard enough, I can find good stuff the same way. Sports are less stressful that way.
nique
August 24th, 2009
2:45 pm
Why does Cox continue to make Diaz bunt when he’s so hot?