Braves, Wren would be taking risk without major move
Frank Wren would like to hold up a trophy other than Jair Jurrjens' pitcher of the month honors for May. But to that, he may need to make a major move first. (Jason Getz/AJC)
(UPDATED: 11 p.m.)
Unless there is a sudden change in wind direction, don’t expect much. Major trades happen when a team is willing to give up a significant part of its present or its future, and as of now the Braves seem to be predisposed to doing neither.
They didn’t get Carlos Beltran from New York because they wouldn’t part with Mike Minor. To get Hunter Pence from Houston or Carlos Quentin from the Chicago White Sox, neither of whom are impending unrestricted free agents, would take more than one young arm. Also, to get somebody Philadelphia really wants might mean showing a willingness to spend more money than the Phillies.
This doesn’t mean general manager Frank Wren won’t make some move. (Maybe Josh Willingham will be this year’s version of Ryan Church. You can never have enough former Nationals). It doesn’t even mean that the Braves, as currently constructed, aren’t capable of making the playoffs, or winning the division, or going to the World Series, or winning it all.
But can you be comfortable right now?
The Braves lost to Pittsburgh on Thursday night 5-2. In the last six games, they have scored 2, 3, 1, 4, 2 and 2 runs — and the 4 came in 19 innings. Record in that span: 2-4.
This won’t cut it in a pennant chase.
Wren would be playing a dangerous game if he doesn’t make a major move. The Braves aren’t healthy. They may not get healthy. Even Chipper Jones used the word “erode” when describing the decline of his own aging body the other day, adding, “For some reason, I can’t keep my leg muscles together.”
Wren wants to win. He certainly has done a nice job reshaping this roster the last couple of years (we attribute Kenshin Kawakami to temporary insanity). But without a significant acquisition, he would be banking on hitting a parlay. It goes like this:
♦ First bet: Nearly every injured Brave of significance gets healthy or can play at a high level with his existing injuries. That includes Jones (quadriceps, for now), Brian McCann (oblique) and Jordan Schafer (finger). It also assumes that Dan Uggla (who appears to have turned things around ) and Jason Heyward will be solid contributors in the next two months. Those are five assumptions.
♦ Second bet: Because sheer logic suggests that not everything will go right, the Braves will need to somehow recapture the chemistry and magic that enabled them to manufacture runs, wins games and endure injuries and obstacles down the stretch last year. And that has not always been evident this season.
When asked if he believed his team needed some help, manager Fredi Gonzalez chose his words carefully: “I think we can improve the ballclub, yes. I think if you ask 30 managers that, they’re all gonna say, yes. … If there’s a player out there who we’re able to acquire and he makes us better, I think we’ll do it.”
Is he more inclined to bang on Wren’s door after injuries like those to McCann and Jones?
“I think Frank’s watching the game,” Gonzalez said, smiling.
The Braves were a resilient bunch last season. They went through a blur of lineups and batting orders, survived a long string of injuries, made the playoffs as a wild card and ultimately lost three of four one-run games to San Francisco, the team that went on to win the World Series. A series of unlikely occurrences led to wins, with their final win of 2010 topping them all: Rick Ankiel (.210) homering in the 11th inning for a 5-4 playoff win over the Giants, making a winner of maligned reliever Kyle Farnsworth.
Ankiel and Farnsworth — there’s an unlikely exacta of heroes.
Much of the 2010 team remains in place, but chemistry isn’t an easy thing to recreate. The Braves need something more tangible — another bat.
Back in spring training, Gonzalez said: “It makes it fun to come to the ballpark when you’ve got good chemistry. When they take care of their own problems, it makes it easy.”
But it won’t be easy for the Braves to overcome their problems without some help.
By Jeff Schultz
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409 comments Add your comment
Joe
July 28th, 2011
4:08 pm
First!
Steve
July 28th, 2011
4:11 pm
Is there any confirmation that all the Mets wanted from the Braves was Mike Minor for Carlos Beltran? That’s pretty hard to believe, considering that Zack Wheeler is a MUCH better prospect than Minor.
I’ve seen the “Braves wouldn’t trade Minor for Beltran” statement a lot over the Internet today. I would love to know if that is really true.
Rob
July 28th, 2011
4:13 pm
ENOUGH ATLANTA MEDIA. stop thinking Wren cares about your opinion. he knows the players, the money, and the talent what we have. i hardly think the AJC’s CONSTANT use of pressure will make any difference to him. can’t wait for this to be over so that these blogs will end.
Realist
July 28th, 2011
4:14 pm
When you say, “He certainly has done a nice job reshaping this roster the last couple of years,” you need to provide some evidence. Aside from the great move acquiring Jurrjens, what has Wren actually done to reshape the roster himself?
The most valuable players on this team were all here or in the organization when Wren took over: McCann, Freeman, Hudson, Hanson, Venters, Kimbrel, O’Flaherty, Prado.
So what exactly did Wren build? If you are giving him credit for NOT getting rid of good players who were already here, that’s pretty faint praise.
CHIEF NOCAHOMA
July 28th, 2011
4:15 pm
LET’S GO BRAV-OS!
Headhunter
July 28th, 2011
4:17 pm
No way the Braves are able to survive a 7-game series against any playoff caliber pitching staff as currently constructed.
Steve
July 28th, 2011
4:18 pm
I’ll add a bit to Realist’s comments:
In my opinion, Frank Wren has significantly benefited from “bad luck” in his desired trades. If not for some last-minute issue, Wren would have signed:
1) AJ Burnett
2) Rafeal Furcal
3) Ken Griffey, Jr.
Wren also traded for Rick Ankiel last season apparently because he felt compelled to make a move. I am very concerned that he has that same “gut” feeling this year and we end up overpaying for a no. 7 or 8 hitter.
Mike
July 28th, 2011
4:18 pm
@Realist: But that’s what people are ripping Wren on…NOT getting rid of good players who are already here. What if he had gotten rid of Hanson or not signed Hudson to that extension? Where would the be pitching staff be?
JoshTown
July 28th, 2011
4:19 pm
Not that I don’t LOVE free baseball, but I wouldn’t mind us wrapping this thing up in 9 tonight…
Rob
July 28th, 2011
4:19 pm
@realist- exactly. this is why the AJC doesn’t have any impact on the braves or wren. total nonsense. wren is THE reason we are in this position. it takes a balance of short-term AND long-term goals to sustain success.
thank the lord he doesn’t pay attention to these blogs. trading minor for beltran would have been horrible.
jfreak13713
July 28th, 2011
4:22 pm
I think the Braves will try to pull the string on Carlos Quentin because he has been a good bat for a few years and you can expect him to be a contributure going forward. Don’t be surprised if they deal a young arm and an OLD arm (lowe) in a multiple team trade to get a big bat.
Blangadanger
July 28th, 2011
4:30 pm
@Realist Wren also deserves credit for acquiring Vazquez during what became the best year of his career and then trading Vazquez the following year for Vizcaino (among others), currently considered one of our Tier 1 prospects. Also, Wren has been a part of the franchise longer than when he took over his current position at the top. You can’t deny his influence over our great young talent.
I don’t think Wren has proven himself to be a great GM yet, but I also think that Braves fans are too quick to judge based on rash, big-headline moves, or lack thereof.
Realist
July 28th, 2011
4:30 pm
Re-signing Huddy was a good decision, and ultimately the Uggla deal will look good.
But I don’t give a GM credit for having the brains NOT to give away his best, cheapest players in bad deals. Any idiot can do nothing and do it well.
Where would the 2011 roster be if we weren’t spending nearly $15MM on Kawakami, McLouth and Linebrink? Maybe we’d have a left fielder or a plan B at 3B or SS. (Mark Reynolds, Johnny Damon and many others were available this offseason, but we couldn’t or didn’t pursue them, because of decisions Wren made).
Hillbilly D
July 28th, 2011
4:37 pm
I think this horse is long since deceased and has about been beaten into dust.
Don't Trade Young Pitching
July 28th, 2011
4:48 pm
Luck or not Wren rebuilt this pitching staff. Give him his due. If the Braves needed ONE bat I’d say yay! One bat isn’t going to do it and JJ, Hanson and Huddy are gone sooner rather than later. How do you guys think teams on the bottom get to the bottom? The Giants traded Zach Wheeler, freakin’ Zack Wheeler for Beltran. If you’d do that with our top P prospect then “Welcome to Crazy Town”
David, my daughter ended up a Jayhawk.
RRR
July 28th, 2011
4:53 pm
Rob: BINGO!
My goodness, almost three days left and Jeff S is crying like nothing will happen at all. I don’t want to give the Mutts ANYTHING for two/three months of Beltran. Get Pence in here, that would be worth the move. Carlos, too.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
4:54 pm
Folks, just Tweeted this, but for those who aren’t following me on Twitter — and WHY aren’t you? Hmmm? — Frank Wren, Bruce Manno just came downstairs to talk to Fredi Gonzalez for 5 mins on the field, then went straight back to their office. That’s all I know. So start your speculatin’.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
4:57 pm
Steve: 1) I don’t have a transcript of trade talks, no. But generally acknowledged that Mets wanted Minor and a lower prospect for Beltran from Braves. If you choose not to believe that, its fine, but I can tell you it has never been denied, on or off the record. As for the “Frank Wren doesn’t care about your opinion” part, you are correct on that. But I’m a columnist and I get paid to write my opinion. Frank understands that. I’m not sure why you don’t.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
4:59 pm
Realist: The first player that comes to mind is Billy Wagner last year. But I’m sure if you go over rosters from this year, last year, and one before, you’ll come across others with his finger prints on it. I don’t have time to do it now, sorry.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
5:00 pm
Realist — Kawakami, McLouth and overpaying for Lowe were obvious mistakes, yes.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
5:02 pm
FYI, tonight’s lineup: Nate McLouth (8), Martin Prado (5), Freddie Freeman (3), Dan Uggla (4), Eric Hinske (7), David Ross (2), Jason Heyward (9), Alex Gonzalez (6), Derek Lowe (1).
Herschel Talker
July 28th, 2011
5:05 pm
Schultzie:
5 posts in a row is a lot. You need companionship. I am here.
HT
PMC
July 28th, 2011
5:19 pm
Hey Jeff, Hope your night is a lot shorter one at the Ted than the last live blog. I’m still tired from that game. As far as the Manno; Wren; Gonzo speculation….
I’m thinking they were asking him his opinion on late night hispanic eateries.
Yunel Asscobar
July 28th, 2011
5:20 pm
Jeff – Quentin seems to be the latest likely trade prospect. Why is he a better fit than Pence? Is Wren talking to the Astros or is a Pence deal unlikely?
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2011
5:21 pm
It is a tight rope Wren is on right now. You would not resign Beltran and no guarantee about his health.
Consider this: With no major moves made this season, this winter the Braves COULD be sitting the cat -bird seat with a retirement, a trade, and then if the overlords permitted, over 30 million to retool the offense.
Just saying.
anderson jones
July 28th, 2011
5:23 pm
What about plucking Julio Franco from the Mexican leagues?
Fredi Gonzalez
July 28th, 2011
5:23 pm
I’ll tip my hat for a right-handed bat.
Bob
July 28th, 2011
5:27 pm
If Wren worked for any other organization other than our lame duck owners or the Nats and Seattle, he’d be the head ticket agent
The Other Steve
July 28th, 2011
5:28 pm
Jeff, good evening. Do we know how many games this year the Braves have started their expected starting line-up out of spring training? It seems like it can’t be more then a dozen times! Taking 3 of 4 from Pittsburgh would be big considering all of the injuries. McCann doing any better?
Not Capable
July 28th, 2011
5:39 pm
The Braves as currently constructed are not poised to win much of anything – especially a championship. I will be so glad when we say goodbye to has beens Chipper, Lowe, and Never Were Schafer and maybe even Sissy Heyward.
Ghostrider
July 28th, 2011
5:41 pm
Oh, One more thing about this possible trade…why don’t we throw in Scott Proctor as a freebie…Just saying
Dr. Kenneth Noisewater
July 28th, 2011
5:42 pm
i’m getting frustrated with both the braves & falcons not making any moves so far. braves have a plenty of solid pitchers…time to part with 1 or 2. i firmly believe medlen will come back and be a starter again.
JS- i know your doing a braves blog today, but what says you about where the falcons are headed during free agency??
Lowcountry Bulldawg
July 28th, 2011
5:45 pm
I am here boys lets go 20 tonight!
Reid Adair
July 28th, 2011
5:46 pm
Frank Wren doesn’t know how to win. He’s made many other roster errors than just Kenshin Kawakami. I am not surprised he has sat idly by and watched other contenders improve for the closing run.
JASon
July 28th, 2011
5:46 pm
“Even Chipper Jones used the word “erode” when describing the decline of his own aging body the other day, adding, “For some reason, I can’t keep my leg muscles together.”
What is your point? He’s old. He’s not the future of this team. No one cares about Chipper Jones.
Schultzie.....
July 28th, 2011
5:52 pm
How does getting a right fielder make more sense than getting a center fielder???? McClouth can’t hit, plays a subpar outfield and has less speed than Upton or Bourne. At least Heyward can play the field when he is not hurt. I am confused why the Braves seem to be bailing on fixing the problem they have had for two years, center field.
Delbert D.
July 28th, 2011
5:54 pm
They probably told him not to put Heyward in the lineup, pending a trade.
Not Capable
July 28th, 2011
5:56 pm
Fans = filled seats in stadium watching a championship calibre team……….Empty seats = No Fans watching a team going no where because the management doesn’t have the intelligence to make trades and build up a team……..Braves attendance will continue to decline until they go the way of the THRASHERS and leave town……and based on the way it is now…..not to many will miss them.
Not Capable
July 28th, 2011
5:59 pm
Chipper is OLD and getting more feeble by the day….time to find a new third baseman and sit the old man down and relieve the payroll of his check…..we will retire his Jersey and put a statue of him up but it is time for him to go the way of the old retired player – out of the game!
Duh!
July 28th, 2011
6:00 pm
Jeffrey, I am thinking that to do nothing is to do something in this situation. I am of the ilk that says those are some mighty fine young arms we have accumulated. We still have some pieces on the farm that can be brought up along the way later this year and Spring training next. Bobby Cox did not go to the playoffs in his first year either, you know, I mean like, Duh!
Memories
July 28th, 2011
6:02 pm
It seems like only yesterday that Chipper was calling out Heyward for not being in the lineup when he was hurt…..
P Rose
July 28th, 2011
6:03 pm
The Braves need all the pitching they can get, because the only way they will win will be to outpitch everybody else. Every time they try to bring in a “big bat,” the guy suddenly tanks the minute he stretches a tomahawk across his chest (Uggla, Lee, Ankiel, Church, Gonzalez, Glaus, McClouth). Beltran would be no different. Turner Field is a pitcher’s park for a team with a pitching mindset. Mike Minor will help down the stretch in September. In these endless 10-inning, 2-1 ball games, it comes down to who has more good pitching.
bvillebaron
July 28th, 2011
6:07 pm
Can’t quite understand why you feel this year’s team isn’t a resilient bunch as well. To answer a poster’s earlier question, I heard the other night that the Braves were only able to put their expected starting lineup on the field for only 8 games this year (last night was game 105). Despite that, they are currently on pace to win 94 games and have a 3 1/2 game lead for the wild card.
There is risk involved in making a move for the sake of making a move an appeasing sports writers and the masses as well (see Texeira fiasco). For all you Wren bashers out there, they don’t currently have the 4th best record in MLB (behind the 3 biggest spenders in MLB), because he “doesn’t get it” or “panics” at trade deadlines. As constituted, this team is built to be very good for a number of years to come. In case some of you haven’t noticed, the core of that nucleus (McCann, Freeman, Heyward, Prado, Hanson, Venters, Kimbrel and possibly Schafer yet) are all home grown propsects that weren’t traded in panic moves at prior trade deadlines.
I am not averse to making deadline deals and everyone knows this team needs a right handed bat who preferably plays CF and another middle reliever). There are options out there that improve your team this year and give it a better chance to win now (IMO they make the playoffs even without a deadline deal and once you get into the tournament anything can happen) without mortgaging your future (Teheran, Viscaino, Minor, Delgado).
Duh!
July 28th, 2011
6:07 pm
P Rose is exactly, and I mean exactly right, here Jeffrey! Duh! about the ball park. It was designed for smoltzie, maddawg, and tommy. Pitching it the deal dude, I say, hold em man, hold em!
Duh!
July 28th, 2011
6:10 pm
bvillebaron has it exactly right as well! Gee Jeffrey, a really good educated bunch is following you along here tonight. I mean, what should anyone expect, right, like, Duh!!!!
SAL
July 28th, 2011
6:11 pm
Wren is taking a risk if he makes a deal or not so what is point?
P Rose
July 28th, 2011
6:12 pm
@5:52: “McClouth can’t hit, plays a subpar outfield… At least Heyward can play the field when he is not hurt…”
McClouth is a far better defensive outfielder than Heyward (Jason does have a stronger arm, but he is wildly inaccurate), and – this just in – Heyward (.222) isn’t hitting the ball any better than McClouth (.231).
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
6:18 pm
Herschel — Thanks for the love. Most folks are on the freeway at 5.
Jon
July 28th, 2011
6:20 pm
I am not sure about others here, but Heyward hasn’t shown me anything since preseason play of 2009-2010. Was he a power hitter at one time? I have never seena bigger man hit weaker ground balls in my life!
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
6:22 pm
Yunel — Not a lot of difference in Hunter vs. Pence, other than Hunter makes a little more money this year ($6.9 mill vs. $5.05 mill).
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
6:22 pm
Anderson Jones: “What about plucking Julio Franco from the Mexican leagues?” … I hear he’s available.
Jon
July 28th, 2011
6:23 pm
Jeff, is there something seriously wrong with Heyward that we just don’t know about?
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
6:24 pm
The Other Steve — You’re guesstimation is on target: The Braves have started their Opening Day lineup only 11 games.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
6:25 pm
Dr. Kenneth Noisewater — Their focus right now seems to be on spending their money to keep their own guys. There’s NO question they liked Charles Johnson, but it just too rich, and I fear the same will be true with Ray Edwards. I suspect they’ll get somebody, but it won’t be a big name. Pure speculation.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
6:26 pm
JASon — I’m not talking about the future. I’m talking about this year. Was that not obvious?
Dr. Kenneth Noisewater
July 28th, 2011
6:27 pm
Thanks JS, i’m hoping they’ll do something. Meanwhile, Pats just traded for Ochocinco
Larry
July 28th, 2011
6:28 pm
I’m not sure anyone we get can make a difference in the playoffs with this manager at the helm. If we acquired Ryan Howard, Fruity would try him at lead-off!
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
6:29 pm
Duh! — My only response is when three of your five starting pitchers (Jurrjens, Hanson, Beachy) are young and you’ve got four major pitching prospects in the minors and you’ve got the good possibility of Kris Medlen coming back at some point next season, you’re not mortgaging the future by trading one pitching prospect.
P Rose....
July 28th, 2011
6:31 pm
Have you not been watching the latest games in which McClouth played? He has missed cutoff men, thrown to the wrong base, and has proven that he covers much mess ground than Schaeffer. I never said that Heyward was better than McClouth on defense. I was implying that he doesn’t hurt the team much when he is out there. Also, despite the slight difference in averages, Heyward has more runs, doubles, homeruns, rbi’s, stolen bases, and a higher OPS. He is also 22 and most batters struggle in their second year. McClouth is in a pretty sharp decline and has been since he got to Atlanta. Personally, I feel like center field is a much bigger position to address.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
6:33 pm
Jon — (on Heyward) Physically? I don’t think so. He’s just struggling with his “mechanics” and problems in his swing he says he developed when his shoulder was injured. No guarantee he’ll straighten it out this year. Wrote about it the other day. But I still the kid’s going to be great and so does the team. To me, comments from some folks about trading him are crazy.
Captain Jack
July 28th, 2011
6:33 pm
My opinion……2 bats are needed. Chipper needs to be on the bench for the rest of the season which would provide a big bat on the bench. Prado goes to 3rd. So now we need 2 outfielders because center field just sucks badly. We need a left fielder and center fielder who can actually hit and hit with power.
Stinger2
July 28th, 2011
6:34 pm
My guess is Wren came down to the field to tell Fredi
to meet him for lunch tomorrow. No, thats slly. Wren just wanted to take a little walk, go to the men`s room before the game and get an autographed ball for someone. No, it had to be more important than something like that. Now I`ve got it…he told Fredi that he has solved the need for a middle reliefer. KK will be back tomorrow.
Jeff, Question for you....
July 28th, 2011
6:35 pm
Is it just me or is it easy to predict what Heyward is going to do based on the pitcher he is facing and the count he has???? It is so obvious based on the fact that he stands so far from the plate and has to lunge at pitches so often. Why on earth do you think the Braves are not telling him to move in closer to the plate. Obviously what he is doing now isn’t working too well. Thoughts???
John Galt
July 28th, 2011
6:36 pm
You little girls on this blog are laughable. We got into the payoffs last year, have the 2nd best record in the NL and the 4th best in all of baseball, and Frank Wren is an idiot?
There are idiots around this discussion, but Frank Wren is not one of them-
Jon
July 28th, 2011
6:38 pm
John Galt, YOU are the one who is laughable. A fictional character name… and one that is taken by the reactionary rightwingers as an idol? LOL Grow-the-&*^$%-up! Maybe I’ll use the name Spock, cause like he is my idol! LOL
The Other Steve
July 28th, 2011
6:38 pm
Boy you people hating on Heyward are crazy! Give the kid a chance! He had an amazing year last year. He will turn it around. My gosh he has another 15 years ahead of him.
Jon
July 28th, 2011
6:38 pm
…and SPOCK is xenophobic and intolerant so he fits me to a “T”
Billy-Ball
July 28th, 2011
6:40 pm
I agree with you, The Other Steve. But I understand the concerns people have when it looks like the guy can’t hit the ball out of the infield
John Galt
July 28th, 2011
6:44 pm
@Jon-
If Spock is moronic, inarticulate and infantile, I’d stick with it if I were you.
If you had the reading comprehension to read Atlas Shrugged and watched something other than the Cartoon Network on your Mom’s cable you would know more about John Galt and why Atlas Shrugged was a piece of prophetic fiction about 2011 America. Send me your Mom’s address and I’ll get you the Classic Comics version.
Of course, you won’t have time to read when they wise up and make YOU the new Braves’ GM…..
urban redneck
July 28th, 2011
6:47 pm
i’ve never gotten a bobblehead with a gimp leg before. it bobbles funny.
Other Steve
July 28th, 2011
6:48 pm
I can recount many young Braves players that never adjusted to the league well and fizzled out after teams started to attack the holes in their swings. Obviously, the Braves just recently had a right fielder, Francoer, touted as the next Roy Hobbs that has become a good player but not the great player that everyone thought he was going to be. That first shortened season of his was great. In fact, he played well for a few years despite the drop in power. Pitchers caught up to his inadequacies at handling certain pitches. I worry that Heyward is not being instructed well enough to make sure that it doesn’t happen to him.
flagger
July 28th, 2011
6:48 pm
Look at the Texeira trade and u will see what happens when u rent a player…
and the dumb asses that keep trashing Chipper don’t know Jack…
P Rose
July 28th, 2011
6:52 pm
@6:31 (weird, when you respond to someone’s blog, you take their user name; makes it hard to respond back!) I dunno, I was at the game last night and McClouth made the play of the game, a long-running, sliding, basket-catch to end the inning and save a run. Between Schafer (when healthy) and McClouth, we have two excellent defensive center fielders – something you need when your team relies on pitching to win. Heyward did make an outstanding, diving grab in foul territory the other night, I’ll give you that; but his throws to the plate have been awful this year. I know he’ll be a hitter someday (I hope), but right now he taps weakly to short on nearly every at bat. He and Freddie Freeman remind me of Frenchy and McCann when they came up together, and Frenchy was the one who got all the hype…
Billy-Ball
July 28th, 2011
6:53 pm
Getting back to trade possibilities, what do you think we would have to give up for Carlos Quentin?
Billy-Ball
July 28th, 2011
6:57 pm
Memo to Galt: Many have the ability to read Atlas Shrugged. I read it as well as many deeper fictional novels and non fiction (”Homer,” “The Iliad” and “The Odyssey”) Chill out. You’re not wowing anyone here.
Agreed
July 28th, 2011
6:59 pm
P. Rose, I am not arguing that he is a bad center fielder. I am just saying that it would be smarter for the Braves to address that position and give up on him before benching Heyward for Ludwick or Quentin. If the Braves do get one of those guys they are still going to be struggling for RBI’s with McClouth leading off and hitting in the .230’s. Personally, I would rather the Braves go after a center fielder but I don’t think either position is a strong one right now…
TheAntiMe
July 28th, 2011
7:00 pm
I’ll bet that Frank Wren & Company went down to tell Fredi that he had sweetened the deal to get Carlos Quentin with something that Kenny Williams will not be able to refuse. Frank Wren is now throwing Chipper Jones into the deal – or at least his bobblehead.
Mark in mid-town
July 28th, 2011
7:01 pm
I think Wren has been better than most, but what a shame he didn’t stand up to Bobby Cox last year and refuse to get rid of Escobar. That was an example of not seeing the forest for the trees. The Braves are not the better for that incredibly short-sighted move and will be paying for years to come for that lack of vision.
Ancient ATLiens
July 28th, 2011
7:01 pm
@Realist –
The best comment this week: “Even an idiot can do nothing, and do it well”. Speaking of idiots…Saint Fans!!!
Go Falcons!
BravesFan
July 28th, 2011
7:02 pm
Pence is what the Braves need..getting him is the problem..anyone else is 2nd best…CF need taking care of.
The Other Steve
July 28th, 2011
7:04 pm
Where is Greg Norton when you need him?!
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
7:10 pm
Play ball!
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
7:11 pm
First pitch was 7:10. I normally don’t write that down but this series has taught us we might want to refer to it later.
TheAntiMe
July 28th, 2011
7:13 pm
Play ball!
I am. MLB 10: The Show on PS3. And watching the Bravos, of course.
FSUFalcon
July 28th, 2011
7:17 pm
look at the braves record vs lefties..they have no chance in the playoffs with a move….the serious teams make moves to fill glaring needs..i.e. the Giants and phillies
FSUFalcon
July 28th, 2011
7:18 pm
without a move that is…
TheAntiMe
July 28th, 2011
7:25 pm
First pitch was 7:10. I normally don’t write that down but this series has taught us we might want to refer to it later.
lol – The way things are going, Jeff, it may not hurt to write the month and year down, as well.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
7:26 pm
Freeman rocks. He has been so much better than I expected as a rookie. That’s a 12-game hitting streak btw.
TheAntiMe
July 28th, 2011
7:27 pm
I wonder if Freeman’s Seaman were able to get a pass for the game?
John Galt
July 28th, 2011
7:29 pm
Dear, dear Billy-Ball-
Not trying to wow anyone, just responding to a childish dumba$$. If you could read you would know that. But I also read those 3 books you referenced- they were required in the 8th grade.
You remember- you read them right before you finished school.
The intelligence is not in reading the book, but recognizing its fulfillment in the current news.
Dr. Kenneth Noisewater
July 28th, 2011
7:30 pm
let’s go ski!!!
Dr. Kenneth Noisewater
July 28th, 2011
7:30 pm
nice!!
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
7:30 pm
Bang zoom. …. near homer but double brings in one.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
7:32 pm
Here’s a great stat. First time the Braves have scored first since July 18.
Dr. Kenneth Noisewater
July 28th, 2011
7:33 pm
JS- since you’re at the game…the kid screaming “LETS GO BRAAAVESSS”, is that a fan or a soundbyte?? I’ve been hearing that same kid all season long and would think he/she would’ve lost their voice by now.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
7:34 pm
Dr. Ken — I can’t hear the kid from the pressbox.
TheAntiMe
July 28th, 2011
7:34 pm
Wow, not coincidentally, that seems to be about the time that they were on their last good roll.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
7:36 pm
Go figure.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
7:40 pm
So this is when we interject the obvious observation: Derek Lowe isn’t fooling anybody. Up to 44 pitches with 2 on and 1 out in 2nd.
CONservative Johnson
July 28th, 2011
7:43 pm
Lowe is terrible. It seems like everytime the Braves get a lead for him, he gives it up the very next inning (at the very least he gives up a run or 2) . . .
tdc
July 28th, 2011
7:44 pm
Let’s go Heyward. Shut the haters up.
Jarad
July 28th, 2011
7:45 pm
This is the second game in a row that Lowe cant seem to keep the balls down. Back to back hitters, the ball doesn’t move and just hovers over the plate. Does he need some rest or what?
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
7:46 pm
By the way, not sure if mentioned on TV but Kevin Correia was hitting .079 before the RBI single on 0-2 count off Lowe.
TheAntiMe
July 28th, 2011
7:47 pm
Hey, Hey!
Matt
July 28th, 2011
7:47 pm
There’s no way we can swing a three team trade giving up Lowe to a team in need of a starter and getting a bat in return, while the other gives up prospects?
Anonymous
July 28th, 2011
7:48 pm
I would love to see the numbers on how opposing pitchers hit the Braves vs. how they hit the rest of the league.
Jarad
July 28th, 2011
7:49 pm
I’d take a low tier prospect and swallow all the money we owe “Low” on his contract to get him off the roster.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
7:50 pm
Ouch. This doesn’t look good.
TROTTINGHOME
July 28th, 2011
7:50 pm
DOB blog got over 1000 hits this got 107…suckers
CONservative Johnson
July 28th, 2011
7:50 pm
Btw Jeff, they should just let Heyward play. I don’t know how many terrible at-bats we’ve had to watch from Uggla this year and he’s played almost every single game . . .
Jarad
July 28th, 2011
7:51 pm
Cedeno went right into and over him. Looks like a bell ringer
Matt
July 28th, 2011
7:51 pm
Is it just me or is mcclouth destined to be a royal?
TheAntiMe
July 28th, 2011
7:52 pm
That play looked like it was straight out of that classic Bugs Bunny cartoon. He got it.
tdc
July 28th, 2011
7:54 pm
Matt
July 28th, 2011
7:51 pm
Is it just me or is mcclouth destined to be a royal?
Sounds right. KC has been like a braves junkyard.
Matt
July 28th, 2011
7:57 pm
Francoeur, Cabrera, farnsworth, betemit, Davies, Pena, yost, am I missing anyone?
TheAntiMe
July 28th, 2011
7:59 pm
Francoeur, Cabrera, farnsworth, betemit, Davies, Pena, yost, am I missing anyone?
Dayton Moore, the former Braves Assistant GM and current Royals GM.
Fredi Gonzalez
July 28th, 2011
8:02 pm
Betemit’s a Tiger.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
8:02 pm
While we watch Derek Lowe struggle, I just got my very own Chipper Jones bobblehead doll. No apparent ailments or surgical scars. http://twitter.com/#!/JeffSchultzAJC/statuses/96731147454783488
Yunel Asscobar
July 28th, 2011
8:03 pm
Jeff – did you check his oblique?
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
8:04 pm
Sorry. Try this link instead. http://bit.ly/p7CUaJ
Jarad
July 28th, 2011
8:04 pm
OMG, 70 pitches through 3. Thanks for saving the ‘pen Lowe.
Matt
July 28th, 2011
8:05 pm
I was just saying after their tour in atl they found themselves in kc, just like mcclouth, proctor and Lowe prob will as well!
Sonny Clusters
July 28th, 2011
8:05 pm
Where do Braves go to die? Second base.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
8:05 pm
It’s raining. Lightly.
Sonny Clusters
July 28th, 2011
8:07 pm
Those Bobbleheads don’t have adductors, or obliques, or quads, or hammys, or thumbs, or antlers, right?
Yunel Asscobar
July 28th, 2011
8:07 pm
@matt – I agree. We can hope.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
8:07 pm
Jarad — “OMG, 70 pitches through 3. Thanks for saving the ‘pen Lowe.” … Hey, it’s only 69. Don’t exaggerate.
Yunel Asscobar
July 28th, 2011
8:09 pm
Apparently, Jerry Meals’ OpticalOblique strain is healed. He got the call right at 2nd.
Jarad
July 28th, 2011
8:10 pm
Tell you what Jeff, he throws less than 10 this inning, and I’ll take it back. But, I’m exaggerating
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
8:11 pm
Pirates already have 5 hits and 2 walks but have stranded 6 runners in 3 innings.
Sonny Clusters
July 28th, 2011
8:12 pm
Clusters never played in the rain. Coach would stop the game and put us in the dugout rather than risk us getting wet on the field. We attract lightning and always have. Not sure why.
Sonny Clusters
July 28th, 2011
8:15 pm
A serious baseball question from Clusters. What happened to the Morton Salt tarp and how old do you have to be to remember it? Jeff probably remembers the tarp before that.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
8:15 pm
Apparently Lowe figured out how to pitch to Correia.
Jarad
July 28th, 2011
8:16 pm
Finally found his sinker! Took 80 pitches, but at least he’s keeping the ball down. Better than his 60 and change last go round. Keep it up Lowe.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
8:16 pm
And here comes the rain tarp. Damn! DAMN DAMN DAMN!
Jarad
July 28th, 2011
8:17 pm
F… Rain delay. Well, wonder how that’ll work out for the pen. Maybe it’ll be short
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
8:18 pm
Seriously, if Elias keeps record on the longest composite time for a series, this would be it. 2 hour rain delay in game 1, 19 innings in game 2, 10 innings in game 3, now another delay.
Jarad
July 28th, 2011
8:18 pm
OK Jeff, well time to focus on the trade market then. Would you pay a bit (possible a little more than a bit) more for Quentin, or a bit less for Ludwick.
TheAntiMe
July 28th, 2011
8:19 pm
Guess it’s back to virtual baseball. PS3 never has a rain delay.
Yunel Asscobar
July 28th, 2011
8:20 pm
Who’s a better fit for Braves needs? Quentin or Pence?
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
8:23 pm
Jarad — That’s an easy question. Carlos Quentin is a player of much greater impact than Ludwick.
This year’s numbers: Quentin. Ludwick: .238/11/62. Quentin: .262/20/62.
But I imagine Quentin also will cost a lot more in trade.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
8:24 pm
Yunel — I would take either Quentin or Pence but Pence has more speed on base paths, which helps in close games — which the Braves have played a lot of.
Jarad
July 28th, 2011
8:24 pm
Well there in lies the question Jeff. Do you pay up for it or not. I’m not on the Ludwick bandwagon, and I think Wren needs to make a splash with Quentin. At least he’ll cost less than Pence, and obviously looks like a heck of a lot better bat than Ludwick
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
8:26 pm
Jarad — I would pay, yes, because while I don’t think Braves are going to fall off the end of the earth after this year, I think teams must identify when they have a chance to go for it, and this is one of those seasons.
Arthur Redding, Jr.
July 28th, 2011
8:27 pm
Feels like the Braves have been playing the Pirates forever.
Feels like the trade speculation has been going on forever.
What the Braves, fans, columnists need is a big blow-out inning of 7-8 runs and a reasonable trade rumor that actually happens.
Jarad
July 28th, 2011
8:29 pm
Thanks Jeff, and I couldn’t agree more. Add a piece here, and god forbid we stay healthy, we could definitely make a run. We did it last year with less and came up short.
Do you think the Stros are asking too much for Pence
Jarad
July 28th, 2011
8:30 pm
I think you’ll have to wait till the trade deadline on half of that comment. The runs on the other hand… Ok, may have to wait on that too
duker
July 28th, 2011
8:32 pm
Jeff who would you rather have ? I am thinking Quinton just because whoever we trade cant come back to hurt us to much i e texas…
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
8:33 pm
During the rain delay, I want to mention that the National Anthem tonight was sung by 10 year old Lily Anderson, who is undergoing treatment for Nueroblastoma. She sang on behalf of the Rally Foundation for Cancer Research. Unbelievably inspirational. Huge ovation. Classy move by Braves to set it up.
richie
July 28th, 2011
8:34 pm
Here is what im thinking. Maybe it would be best to lay off the Hunter Pence train and focus on multiple targets that would be more reasonably priced. First we need to get Quentin from the Chisox. Build the package around mike minor. Next we should go after a premiere center fielder. I have Michael Bourn in mind. He can cause the havoc on the bases that our team desperately needs. Finally, we need to acquire a reliable middle relief pitcher. Maybe someone along the lines of Jon Rauch or Mike Adams to have someone to go to in the six or seventh inning and not go to Oventbrel every time.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
8:34 pm
Arthur Redding Jr.
“Feels like the Braves have been playing the Pirates forever. Feels like the trade speculation has been going on forever. What the Braves, fans, columnists need is a big blow-out inning of 7-8 runs and a reasonable trade rumor that actually happens.”
Amen.
Roland's Office, Hunter's Pence
July 28th, 2011
8:35 pm
Sorry for the weak reference to a former Braves CF, but it’s tiresome to have no productivity from the Braves outfield. I’d be OK with a marginal outfielder IF he can platoon with Heyward in RF and smack lefty pitchers. Heyward’s hitting .167 vs. lefties. Even Stefan Gartrell would have a good shot at doing better than that, if the Braves would put him on the 40-man roster and call him up.
Acquire a CF who can get on base consistency against lefties and righties, then add a platoon RF who can hit lefties, and our offense would be improved. It’s not as exciting as getting a big-name outfielder, but it would be better than sticking with the current bunch. We have too many holes in our lineup, from both sides, but especially against a lefty.
Other ex-Braves with the Royals: Bruce Chen and rookie P Tim Collins.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
8:35 pm
Jarad — Astros reportedly are asking a lot for Pence but they should be. He’s young and is not unrestricted after this season. So they can re-sign him after arbitration and re-visit trade market in winter or next season.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
8:36 pm
Duker — Like I wrote above, I’d take either but Pence has more speed. I like speed.
Sam
July 28th, 2011
8:44 pm
Maybe we should trade for Jayson Werth to be our right-handed pop. Then we’d have the two most overpaid players in their sports playing for Atlanta sports teams (along with Joe Johnson). Terrible. Let’s just trade for Willingham and get it over with. Schultz, you know that who is we are going to get. We’d probably give away too much to get Quentin.
ricky aldridge
July 28th, 2011
8:45 pm
Jeff why is the Brave’s minor system so short of some power hitters and hitters for average? They have defense,pitchers but little else. am I missing someone? or where is the freedie freemans and jason heywards?
Reid in EAV
July 28th, 2011
8:45 pm
The Atlanta Braves have brought back CF Rowland Office on a minor league contract. “You can never have too much outfield depth,” said Frank Wren, Braves general manager.
… probably about as true as all the trade rumors floating about.
TheAntiMe
July 28th, 2011
8:48 pm
I like Hunter Pence but the Astros are getting offers from all over for him and it will probably take a deal of Teixeira-esque proportions to secure him in a deal. I have always liked Carlos Quentin as that dude can really mash the ball. It would be very good, IMHO, for the Bravos if they can scoop up on him and he should be attainable with a reasonable offer.
Yunel Asscobar
July 28th, 2011
8:48 pm
Very cool and classy to have Lily Anderson sing. Joe Simpson talked about it to open. Wish they would have played it on tv.
guy
July 28th, 2011
8:49 pm
Look at the CF,RF,LF,SS,3B,and 2B averages and there’s your answer.One power hitter can’t make up for all that underperforming.Be happy to make the wild card spot.Pitching is why we are where we are.Jason Heyward is not what he’s hyped up to be but he’s not by himself.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
8:51 pm
Approximate re-start time for game is between 9 and 9:05, according to Braves.
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2011
8:51 pm
I just saw Lady GaGa for the first time and I didn’t (go GaGa.).
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
8:52 pm
Ricky Aldridge– Can’t answer that, other than to say organization generally has been known more for developing arms.
Yunel Asscobar
July 28th, 2011
8:53 pm
D Lowe coming back out or bullpen? He’s ~ 80 pitches?
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2011
8:53 pm
I was friends with Madonna and Lady GaGa YOU’RE certainly are no Madonna
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
8:54 pm
Yunel — I’d be stunned if he’s not coming back, unless there’s something wrong with him.
TheAntiMe
July 28th, 2011
8:54 pm
I just saw Lady GaGa for the first time and I didn’t (go GaGa.).
lol – So, “Chef”, you’re the one who made her cry. I was wondering about that but didn’t bother checking out the story.
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2011
8:58 pm
I think she was singing, “I’m on the edge of Gory”, but I was thinking, no you are.
Jarad
July 28th, 2011
9:00 pm
Wait, aren’t we looking into Gaga in the trade market as a potential CF prospect?
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2011
9:01 pm
The Material girl was at least hot, while Lady G is…not…anything remotely attractive thru Chef goggles.
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2011
9:02 pm
In a nut shell I would not trade KK for GG.
Jarad
July 28th, 2011
9:03 pm
I dont know, at least Gaga is easier on the eyes…
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
9:05 pm
So, Hinske didn’t stiffen up.
TheAntiMe
July 28th, 2011
9:05 pm
In a nut shell I would not trade KK for GG.
lol – In a nut shell not even for GG in a meat dress.
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2011
9:05 pm
Jarad: She could probably turn 2 every 15 mins.
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2011
9:06 pm
Rossy’s “Shakin”
Jarad
July 28th, 2011
9:08 pm
When does Hisnke do anything not Rock Star Worthy.
Oh, Chef, so you’re saying she’s a SS/2B prospect.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
9:09 pm
Second double play in 4 innings for Pirates.
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2011
9:09 pm
can’t believe Jhey got doubled up on that turn. unbelievable.
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2011
9:11 pm
Not suggesting anything but have you ever seen her and Furky in the same place?
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2011
9:12 pm
He got the Procter Baserunning DVD.
AnotherJeff
July 28th, 2011
9:13 pm
I’m with you Tim Dix, tired of Jason’s slow trot to first.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
9:14 pm
Lowe is sucking wind right now. Big time.
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2011
9:14 pm
JHey with inspired defensive prowess.
TheAntiMe
July 28th, 2011
9:14 pm
Not suggesting anything but have you ever seen her and Furky in the same place?
I think I saw them both together once standing in the Walmart checkout line in Alpharetta.
Jarad
July 28th, 2011
9:16 pm
Jeez Lowe. Can we just Mike Hampton Lowe? Just pay him the ridiculous money we owe while not letting him pitch? Sinkers that dont sink, sink the pitcher pitching
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2011
9:16 pm
NATE STOPPED A BASERUNNER!!! CAKE FOR ALL!
jbones
July 28th, 2011
9:17 pm
When is Lowe not sucking wind?
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
9:18 pm
Pitch No. 95 coming up here for Lowe. We’re in the ffith inning with 1 out.
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2011
9:18 pm
I love the huge skip step Nate takes before throwing to the cut off man that strikes fear into baserunners at other parks.
Jarad
July 28th, 2011
9:18 pm
You can remove the wind portion of the sentence in most cases involving Lowe
Sam
July 28th, 2011
9:18 pm
I have never seen anyone hit into more double plays than Jason Heyward. It’s Francoeur and McCann all over again with Heyward and Freeman.
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2011
9:19 pm
Double F: Rookie of the Year on this Planet.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
9:21 pm
Boos reigning down on Lowe . . .
Jarad
July 28th, 2011
9:21 pm
Can we throw a strike… please
G
July 28th, 2011
9:21 pm
When is the last time Lowe pitched 7 complete? This guy stinks. A huge Wren mistake over signing this guy
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
9:22 pm
OK, that was sweet.
Jarad
July 28th, 2011
9:22 pm
Wow, saved your A$$ there Lowe
AnotherJeff
July 28th, 2011
9:22 pm
Are you kidding me?
TheAntiMe
July 28th, 2011
9:23 pm
Look what Lowe found?
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2011
9:23 pm
Only the drunk make that catch.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
9:24 pm
Lowe touched for 2 more runs in 5th. Braves fortunate to trail only 3-1. Lowe’s allowed 8 hits, 3 walks, 105 pitches.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
9:26 pm
G — The answer to your question is Lowe has pitched 7 innings only twice this season — April 10 and May 17.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
9:26 pm
Gonzalez obviously trying to save his bullpen, letting Lowe hit there and sending him out for another inning.
Jarad
July 28th, 2011
9:28 pm
Saving the Pen, or risk losing the game with the way he’s pitching. You brought up Varvaro, let him eat some innings
G
July 28th, 2011
9:29 pm
Jeff…. wow I did not think it was that few… Not good for your highest priced pitcher, yes?
Jarad
July 28th, 2011
9:30 pm
McClouth really has to start paying his umpire dues. How many bad strikes can the guy catch in a single series?
G
July 28th, 2011
9:31 pm
Safe to say the umpiring has been well below par this series.
Jarad
July 28th, 2011
9:31 pm
How many lead off hits have we had this series that come up empty? Jeez we need a bat
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
9:32 pm
Well, I take that back. Varvaro coming in for Braves. Fredi just used Lowe to bunt.
TheAntiMe
July 28th, 2011
9:33 pm
Get on that phone, Mr. GM, we need some offense. ASAP!
Gene the machine
July 28th, 2011
9:35 pm
some one needs to wake up Heyward. He is a joke right now…
Favre Dollar Footlong
July 28th, 2011
9:37 pm
Jeff,
Any chance Heyward can play center if we get a corner outfielder?
Gene the machine
July 28th, 2011
9:37 pm
and add a new short stop as alex can’t hit either
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
9:39 pm
Va-Va-ro! Va-va-ro! (Sorry, got carried away.)
Is the Murph available?
July 28th, 2011
9:40 pm
Varvaro looked pretty good – think he can give us another couple of innings?
tdc
July 28th, 2011
9:41 pm
JHater-some one needs to wake up Heyward. He is a joke right now…
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
9:41 pm
Favre — I would think so, yes. But as I’ve said before, they like Schafer in CF. Heyward more likely would be part of a platoon, as long as he’s struggling offensively.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
9:42 pm
Freeman again. He missed a HR by a couple of feet. 2-for-3 today.
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2011
9:43 pm
make that the galaxy.
tdc
July 28th, 2011
9:43 pm
Freeman is a beast!
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
9:44 pm
That might be scored a hit, error allowing run to score.
AnotherJeff
July 28th, 2011
9:44 pm
Because Uggla was hustling (Jason), the throw was rushed and wild.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
9:44 pm
That’s what it is — and Uggla’s hitting streak now at 19 games.
G
July 28th, 2011
9:45 pm
Been a while since Braves hit a home run
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2011
9:46 pm
chin high FB called a strike. outstanding
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
9:47 pm
Hinske hits into third double play.
jbones
July 28th, 2011
9:47 pm
Surprise! Another double play…
Jordan Schafer
July 28th, 2011
9:48 pm
GOT JUICE?
Mitchell
July 28th, 2011
9:48 pm
Oh my Christ.
Are you f*ing kidding me?
Has this team ever heard of the word “rally” when not associated with the word “killing?
Mitchell
July 28th, 2011
9:49 pm
Wow.
Favre Dollar Footlong
July 28th, 2011
9:52 pm
Any chance you could get in Wren’s box and give us some insight as to who and when a deal will be made?
Is the Murph available?
July 28th, 2011
9:52 pm
Dale Murphy is only 55 years old – maybe he’d have a chance to hit around the Mendoza line also!
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2011
9:52 pm
I maybe drunk but I’m providing a Vet the high life.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
9:54 pm
Ross must have something in eyes. Contact lense issue?
jbones
July 28th, 2011
9:54 pm
the best thing about Ross hitting into a double play is that Heyward won’t have a chance to next inning.
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2011
9:55 pm
Solie would have said Ross is ,”double tuff”.
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2011
9:57 pm
“Would fight buzzsaw and give it the first two rounds…”
Jordan Schafer
July 28th, 2011
9:57 pm
I was hoping Heyward get a chance to hit into a double play or do anything to take the attention off how much I suck.
Otis Nixon's Short Straw
July 28th, 2011
9:58 pm
“The Beard” is coming in to shut down the Phillies in the bottom of the 9th. MLB Network.
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2011
10:00 pm
I TiVo’d the Ross eye situation and it was caused a a fan down the right field line holding up a picture of Lady GaGa.
Mitchell
July 28th, 2011
10:00 pm
Come on AV.
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2011
10:01 pm
Varvaro’s smoke has smoke has some pop.
Mitchell
July 28th, 2011
10:02 pm
Walks no good.
Walks very no good.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
10:02 pm
It appears Varvaro suddenly is channeling Lowe.
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2011
10:03 pm
I TiVo’d my last comment and a Vet said , thanks.
Mitchell
July 28th, 2011
10:04 pm
Oh! My God.
G
July 28th, 2011
10:04 pm
When is the last time the Braves blew someone out?
Is the Murph available?
July 28th, 2011
10:04 pm
Not Lowe – he throws too hard – maybe John Rocker once he lost the strike zone
Awesome snap throw by Ross
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
10:04 pm
Ooh. Wow. Might’ve been safe but I dunno. And yes, that is Meals.
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2011
10:05 pm
AGon ready to break out a shank.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
10:05 pm
Three straight walks and here comes McDowell.
Jordan Schafer
July 28th, 2011
10:05 pm
And I thought I was terrible. C’mon Jerry Meals.
G
July 28th, 2011
10:05 pm
Out!! This guy has trouble seeing tags… Wow
AnotherJeff
July 28th, 2011
10:05 pm
I smell Proctor
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
10:06 pm
Chef Tim — “AGon ready to break out a shank.” … Haha. I didn’t realize we were in Attica.
Mitchell
July 28th, 2011
10:07 pm
Are we really going to lose this game?
The same night the Phillies lose two in a row for the first time nine years?
The only thing that could possibly be worse is being forced to sit through Bob Costas’ call of the game on MLB Network.
Jarad
July 28th, 2011
10:07 pm
There you Go! Strikes do amazing things
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
10:07 pm
Varvaro walks the bases loaded but gets out of it. Pirates now have stranded 11.
Mitchell
July 28th, 2011
10:09 pm
Thanks for not blowing it, Barbaro.
Valvano. Vinnie Barbarino.
Jarad
July 28th, 2011
10:09 pm
Or listening to Chris Berman say “back back back” a couple more times
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2011
10:09 pm
Jeff: Not at the time but since:”Attica”, one of the most hilarious overused chants ever.
RC in the ATL
July 28th, 2011
10:10 pm
I was thinking today about Ross’ impressive performance last night. Obviously he is so valuable as a backup catcher. I wonder if the Braves have had any thought about perhaps carrying a more versatile type of player as their last player on the bench that could serve as a third catcher…which would allow them to utilize Ross more as an offensive and defensive weapon off the bench. After all, with his talent at the dish, he more than certainly could be considered a complement to Eric Hinske from the right side. Additionally, he does such a great job behind the plate, the Braves probably actually gain something defensively when he is in the game. But…as the primary backup catcher, Fredi is so limited in how he can use him in a particular game, due to the fact that managers like to have another catcher available. Anyone have any thoughts on this???
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
10:13 pm
Heyward hits it 399 feet to the 400 foot part of the park.
Brave Fan
July 28th, 2011
10:14 pm
Good AB by Heyward!
Jordan Schafer
July 28th, 2011
10:14 pm
Chill out Jason. I can only kiss @ss to stay on this team for so long.
Mitchell
July 28th, 2011
10:15 pm
As much as I feel for the Pirates for sucking for twenty years, they don’t really deserve to win this game.
We’ve managed to screw every opportunity we’ve presented for ourselves and yet they can’t even take the runs we’ve been trying to give them.
How many chances have they had to win the series already?
It’s one thing to hit into 97 double plays in four games but to come up empty repeatedly after we just loaded the bases for them, well, that’s a special brand of terrible.
Please score a GD run Braves!
Jesus.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
10:16 pm
Here comes Chipper. Shake those Bobbleheads!
RC in the ATL
July 28th, 2011
10:17 pm
Why does any pitcher ever throw Alex Gonzales a strike. He swings at so many balls. Thankful for that hit…but he swings at so many balls, why throw him a strike???
Favre Dollar Footlong
July 28th, 2011
10:17 pm
RC
That is a great point. He is their best RH bat off of the bench and often gets skipped because Fredi can’t use him .
AnotherJeff
July 28th, 2011
10:17 pm
Please take the first pitch Chipper
Mitchell
July 28th, 2011
10:17 pm
What part of grounding out on the first pitch does Fredi Gonzalez not get?
Sonny Clusters
July 28th, 2011
10:17 pm
Chipper just bobbled onto the on-deck circle.
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2011
10:17 pm
Sorry, I go w/ rawdog.
Love ya Chipper.
AnotherJeff
July 28th, 2011
10:18 pm
RC, it would be nice to have Omar Infante back.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
10:18 pm
LHP Beimel coming in, meaning Chipper will hit right-handed(.278/2/16) instead of left (.251/7/31)
Jordan Schafer
July 28th, 2011
10:19 pm
Hey Chipper here’s your bat. Good luck.
Brave Fan
July 28th, 2011
10:19 pm
With all the talk for a leadoff guy(Bourn) and a corner OF(Quentin, Willingham b/c unfortunately with Beltran gone Pence will be too high for us) that can hit, I wish we’d get Omar back. He would be cheap right now and a better utility guy than what we have.
By the way, Pence will be a Phillie I’m afraid!
TheAntiMe
July 28th, 2011
10:20 pm
We wuz robbed!!!!!
Jarad
July 28th, 2011
10:21 pm
Another… Double… Play
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
10:21 pm
Great play …. and a doubleplay made easier by Alex Gonzalez’ faceplant when taking off from first. … Make that four DPs Braves have hit into.
Rilo
July 28th, 2011
10:21 pm
Looks like my streak of picking up Braves opposing Pitchers continues to serve me well. I have lowered my ERA by a point since the ASG.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
10:21 pm
George Sherrill now pitching.
Brave Fan
July 28th, 2011
10:22 pm
Tough inning there. Shot to CF, shot to left for a hit and shot into DP
G
July 28th, 2011
10:23 pm
I don’t want to state the obvious but this umpire crew has really struggled. Might be time to sit some of these guys…
jbones
July 28th, 2011
10:24 pm
Why does Fredi keep pinch hitting Chipper so he can ground out? I would have rather had Conrad.
Jordan Schafer
July 28th, 2011
10:25 pm
Don’t worry guys. They still have me on the bench.
Mitchell
July 28th, 2011
10:25 pm
Are we trying to permanently shatter Chipper’s knee?
I mean, why is he even batting?
He can’t run. Give him credit for trying to beat it out but WTF.
Is it really worth watching his career come to an end on a pitch-hit at bat in a game against the Pirates?
WTF
Brave Fan
July 28th, 2011
10:27 pm
He hit that one as hard as you can hit one, then got hosed on the call at 1st. However, I would not have hit him there either because you had to know they were going to turn him around and we have two more innings.
RC in the ATL
July 28th, 2011
10:28 pm
Favre, totally agree with you. I’ve heard several times how much the Braves want to “add a RH Hinske” to the bench…and yesterday, I thought…wait, we have one in David Ross. But Fredi’s hands are kind of tied when using him because he is the primary (and only non-emergency) catcher. It would seem that a jack-of-all-trades type of infielder who can catch (even if he only hits .200) would be cheaper and a little easier to find than a RH bench player who is a force.
Another Jeff, yes, it would be nice to have Infante back. But I would still have made the trade for Uggla and I think we sold high on Infante. Not sure what it would cost to get him back or if it is worth it to pay.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
10:29 pm
Sherrill fans the side.
Gen Neyland
July 28th, 2011
10:32 pm
How can we put our trust into this mgmt team to do the right thing when it comes to trading the farm for a shot at instant gratification..? Sounds like Three Card Monty on the blvd. The Braves are in between a rock and a hard place. Today or tomorrow, now or later…
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
10:32 pm
Jordan Schafer — You may be on the bench but you’re also on the disabled list.
Cuba Gooding Jr.
July 28th, 2011
10:32 pm
I swear we’ve got the most boring “good” team in Major League Baseball.
Mitchell
July 28th, 2011
10:32 pm
F*ing Nate McLouth.
Nate, please stop playing baseball.
Brave Fan
July 28th, 2011
10:33 pm
MacOUT – DAMN! It is amazing we are where we are with him playing as much as he has had to!
B-Mac
July 28th, 2011
10:33 pm
Trade Schafer and Minor to Houston for Pence.
Jordan Schafer
July 28th, 2011
10:34 pm
What? I was going to hit a game winning homerun tonight. Oh well who wants Varsity?
Rilo
July 28th, 2011
10:35 pm
same ole same ole…..yeah, what we really need is another inconsistent power hitter. Go get Ludwick and let’s get the season over with. jeeeeeessshh.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
10:35 pm
Breaking news: Freeman is still really good.
Jordan Schafer
July 28th, 2011
10:35 pm
Trade yourself B-Mac.
O'Brien
July 28th, 2011
10:36 pm
The good thing with the Braves struggling to score many runs against the Pirates is it should reinforce to Mr. Wren that this offense needs help. If we were beating the Pirates by 4 or 5 runs per game, Wren might think the team is snapping out of their funk.
Jeff,
Do you think Heyward can learn something from Freeman? Maybe his stance, mechanics etc?
Brave Fan
July 28th, 2011
10:36 pm
It’ll take a whole lot more than that now because the Phillies and Red Sox are throwing offers in there.
I’d trade those two for Bourn
Rilo
July 28th, 2011
10:36 pm
Braves 10 hits….Bucs 8 hits
Mitchell
July 28th, 2011
10:36 pm
We cannot lose to the f*ing Pirates.
This just can’t happen.
The starting pitcher giving up three runs should not constitute a death sentence.
Why is it the other team gets to our guy first and the offense simply has no response?
It’s just pathetic.
Cuba Gooding Jr.
July 28th, 2011
10:36 pm
Jeff, can you explain to me why the Braves would rather add Pence/Quentin/Ludwick than Bourn? I feel like the biggest hole in the team is at lead-off and CF. Why add a corner outfielder that doesn’t fit into the Braves defense?
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
10:37 pm
Freeman now 3-for-4 this game and hitting .292. He’s 81-for-245 (.331) in last 63 games.
Cuba Gooding Jr.
July 28th, 2011
10:38 pm
Hanrahan in… game over.
Is the Murph available?
July 28th, 2011
10:38 pm
Biggest difference in Freeman and Heyward’s rookie years – Heyward’s stats went down over the season bc he didn’t adjust to pitching whereas F.F. has made adjustments constantly and shown great improvement in his hitting. Results?? – Heyward never makes adjustments and becomes the next Franceour, F.F. continues to work on his game and follows McCann’s success
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
10:39 pm
Cuba — Disagree. I think a guy to drive in runs is needed more than leadoff guy.
Brave Fan
July 28th, 2011
10:39 pm
I agree with Cuba. Leadoff guy that can actually get on base and then steal bases. Make pitchers go out of the stretch for a change with Prado, Freeman…at bat.
Jordan Schafer
July 28th, 2011
10:40 pm
Hey O’Brien,
Heyward can borrow my notes on Freeman.
Gen Neyland
July 28th, 2011
10:40 pm
So, who was doubting Freeman’s ability to contribute..? With pitching, all things are possible. : See 1991.
Rilo
July 28th, 2011
10:41 pm
Is the Murph available?
July 28th, 2011
10:38 pm
Biggest difference in Freeman and Heyward’s rookie years – Heyward’s stats went down over the season bc he didn’t adjust to pitching whereas F.F. has made adjustments constantly and shown great improvement in his hitting. Results?? – Heyward never makes adjustments and becomes the next Franceour, F.F. continues to work on his game and follows McCann’s success
Totally agree but Heyward’s problem is his swing…Frenchy couldn’t lay off pitches off the outside corner of the plate. I like Heyward’s chances but he’s still a kid.
Jordan Schafer
July 28th, 2011
10:41 pm
“I agree with Cuba. Leadoff guy that can actually get on base and then steal bases. Make pitchers go out of the stretch for a change with Prado, Freeman…at bat.”
umm………….HELLO!
Seriously
July 28th, 2011
10:41 pm
Please tell me WHY you get a 3-0 count and you swing on the next pitch? Do these ball players not remember the rule…dont swing on 3-0? God Uggla!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Gen Neyland
July 28th, 2011
10:42 pm
…but forget Charlie Leibrandt, if you can…
Gen Neyland
July 28th, 2011
10:42 pm
Is a Kirby Puckett available..?
Cuba Gooding Jr.
July 28th, 2011
10:42 pm
I just feel like the Braves have too many “power” guys already in the lineup that are supposed to be driving in runs. The Braves lack of speed just bothers the heck out of me.
DetroitBraves
July 28th, 2011
10:44 pm
The Braves need a guy that doesn’t make so many outs. If he’s fast or has power or both, all the better. But first and foremost, just don’t make so many outs. This team is hacktastic beyond any in a long, long time.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
10:44 pm
Good crowd tonight: 38,355.
Seriously
July 28th, 2011
10:44 pm
what the heck was wrong with those pitches? down the middle and ball?
Cuba Gooding Jr.
July 28th, 2011
10:44 pm
“I agree with Cuba. Leadoff guy that can actually get on base and then steal bases. Make pitchers go out of the stretch for a change with Prado, Freeman…at bat.”
This is exactly my train of thought. There’s not a better lead off man in the league than Michael Bourn. Seems like he would make more of an impact than Ludwick and some of the other guys mentioned.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
10:45 pm
Goodbye.
RC in the ATL
July 28th, 2011
10:45 pm
So 18,355 go home without the bobble head?
Cuba Gooding Jr.
July 28th, 2011
10:45 pm
Well… no chance in hell to win this game now. Good job, Braves.
Seriously
July 28th, 2011
10:45 pm
Game over!!!!!!!!!!!
Rilo
July 28th, 2011
10:45 pm
I got an idea. let’s walk the leadoff hitter. It never comes back to bite
Gen Neyland
July 28th, 2011
10:46 pm
Jeffy, hope you get to bed before 7 AM. I’m done and hitting the sack. Go Braves…
Caseyatthebat
July 28th, 2011
10:46 pm
Jeff, in the 19 inning game the other night I counted six of the nine players we had on the field having batting averages of .236 or lower. Especially with McCann and Chipper out, how can this team reasonably expect to finish in the playoffs?
Is the Murph available?
July 28th, 2011
10:46 pm
@Rilo – totally agree – different problems Heyward/Frenchy but the situation just seems all too familiar. Frenchy has finally started to listen to coaches/makes adjustments and is doing much better – just hope Heyward learns the lesson before getting trading away in a similar manner. Too much talent to waste on hard-headedness
Brave Fan
July 28th, 2011
10:46 pm
Thats the guy they wanted to play when they shipped Goldie Locks to us.
Sorry Jordon, the getting on base part is where you have had a little trouble.
Rilo
July 28th, 2011
10:47 pm
This team is back to being horrible. Trade will help but I think we’re seeing there is no way the pitching will hold up like it did in the 1st half of the season.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2011
10:47 pm
I won’t say Braves have no chance to come back, but here’s their scoring output for last 6 games: 2-3-1-4-2-2(so far). And the 4 came in 19 innings.
DetroitBraves
July 28th, 2011
10:48 pm
O’Flaherty, Venters, and Kimbrel and the Braves are golden. With the other guys they are…um…..less than golden. And yet it’s not physically possible for the lefties and Kimbrel to pitch every day. The bat is the bigger concern but the depth in the bullpen is a problem.
RC in the ATL
July 28th, 2011
10:48 pm
Well…the Braves are not playing good ball right now folks. Very uninspired since all-star break. They had to have a gift on Tuesday just to salvage a split in this one. To go back to the beginning of this thread entirely…I totally agree with Jeff Schultz…but with one slight modification. I think the Braves would be taking a MAJOR risk without a major move!
Cuba Gooding Jr.
July 28th, 2011
10:49 pm
Maybe if we acquire both Bourn and Pence we’ll make the playoffs.
Jordan Schafer
July 28th, 2011
10:50 pm
McCutchen reminds me of myself when I was on HGH.
Rilo
July 28th, 2011
10:50 pm
Better be a big trade tomorrow or I’m giving up on the Front Office. I’ll still support the players but the days of trusting the FO will be gone.
TheAntiMe
July 28th, 2011
10:52 pm
Something told me that George Sherrill’s good 8th inning had to me a mirage. Sherrill, Linebrink, and especially Proctor really need to go.
Cuba Gooding Jr.
July 28th, 2011
10:53 pm
I’m not excited about Chipper coming back and hitting 3rd. Freddie needs to be our #3 guy in my opinion. Freddie/Uggla/Mac in the heart of the order. Chipper would be an ideal #2 guy IMO.
DetroitBraves
July 28th, 2011
10:53 pm
Murphy, look at Francouer’s on-base percentage, slugging percentage and walk rate this year vs. his career norms. The uptick is very, very slight. Almost certainly not meaningful. He’s virtually the same player. If the Royals invest in that it’s likely Fool’s Gold.
Hey we were one of top 4 teams
July 28th, 2011
10:53 pm
Can someone please tell me why “players” in ATL for the Braves cannot hit?
Is it the water? The ghosts from the old stadium?
What we do know…
- it is not Terry’s fault
- it is not Bobby C’s fault
So when will the MEDIA finally call out the pathetic batting approaches taken by various players?
The Braves are always teetering…. close to playing well, close to falling flat, close to teetering over, close to going on a streak…..
What a ride! (sic)
TheAntiMe
July 28th, 2011
10:53 pm
s/b had to be
O'Brien
July 28th, 2011
10:54 pm
From espn.com;
ESPN.com reported Wednesday that the Astros had turned down a trade proposal earlier this week in which the Phillies offered their best pitching prospect, Jarred Cosart, and their best hitting prospect, Jonathan Singleton, along with another pitching prospect.
The Astros have been telling clubs they need four “sure-thing” players in return in order to deal Pence, who is signed for this year at $6.9 million and can’t become a free agent until after the 2013 season..
I like Pence, but I would be surprised to see the Braves give up 3 or 4 top prospects for him.
Brave Fan
July 28th, 2011
10:54 pm
No way we get Pence with the Phillies wanting him. They probably don’t want him as bad as they want us not to get him.
Bourn and Quentin/Willingham, maybe!
Get Infante back too, he wouldn’t cost much right now
Cuba Gooding Jr.
July 28th, 2011
10:54 pm
Something told me that George Sherrill’s good 8th inning had to me a mirage. Sherrill, Linebrink, and especially Proctor really need to go.
You’re an idiot. Sherrill has been good pretty much all year. Linebrink is solid as well. I agree Proctor is garbage though.
BravesFan
July 28th, 2011
10:55 pm
Mccutchen is good example of the importance of lead-off man..He Makes the pirates go. The Braves don’t have that..Schafer don’t get the job done. McC 280 ba and 390 obp.
BravesFan
July 28th, 2011
10:56 pm
Let Varvaro take Procotrs place…
BravesFan
July 28th, 2011
10:56 pm
o-sp Proctor
TheAntiMe
July 28th, 2011
10:57 pm
I disagree Cuba, and what’s with the name calling? What is this now, 3rd grade?
Mitchell
July 28th, 2011
10:57 pm
F this team.
Cuba Gooding Jr.
July 28th, 2011
10:57 pm
Would be amazing if the Braves got both Bourn and Quentin. Not gonna happen though… too much money involved. Cheapskate ownership.
Mitchell
July 28th, 2011
10:57 pm
F8ing embarrassing.
G
July 28th, 2011
10:58 pm
Another mediocre performance by the Braves
BravesFan
July 28th, 2011
10:58 pm
I like the new look Pirates..wish them well..
Now Wrens get Pence ….
BravesFan
July 28th, 2011
10:59 pm
Thanks Jeff..you the man!
AnotherJeff
July 28th, 2011
10:59 pm
Ok, now I know what Frank Wren whispered into Fredi’s ear….
“You suck.”
Mitchell
July 28th, 2011
11:00 pm
I’m so sick of Dan Uggla’s bull%$#@.
He’s not turning a corner. He’s not “back.”
His job is to hit game winning home runs. His job is to not swing at a ball with a f8ing 3-0 count.
His job is not to take $60 million dollars from us without giving us a damn thing in return.
&^%$ him.
Complete embarrassment.
Rilo
July 28th, 2011
11:00 pm
Our back up catcher and our Rookie are our best hitters. In the voice of Jerry Seinfeld; “and you want to be a World Series team.” I don’t think so.
Cuba Gooding Jr.
July 28th, 2011
11:01 pm
I disagree Cuba, and what’s with the name calling? What is this now, 3rd grade?
So, let’s just get rid of Sherrill and Linebrink, who have done a good job for the most part of the season. That’s just an idiotic statement. Have you watched the Braves this year? These guys have been solid.
O'Brien
July 28th, 2011
11:03 pm
45 hits, 9 runs.
Cuba Gooding Jr.
July 28th, 2011
11:04 pm
Frank Wren is going to acquire Jason Bay.
TheAntiMe
July 28th, 2011
11:06 pm
So, let’s just get rid of Sherrill and Linebrink, who have done a good job for the most part of the season. That’s just an idiotic statement. Have you watched the Braves this year? These guys have been solid.
Many of the games I’ve seen them pitch they give up gopher balls, which, If you are a starter you can get around but if you are only in the game for an inning or two then that doesn’t work so well. And one of the few games that Sherrill did not cost the Braves (against the Phillies) he loaded the bases in the 9th or later and came an eyelash away from giving the Phillies the win.
Brave Fan
July 28th, 2011
11:07 pm
The only time the pen has a problem is when a starter has a bad night and we are way behind in the middle innings. Doesn’t happen enough to address.
We need speed at the top(CF) and one hitter in left b/c Prado is the 3B the rest of the year for the most part. Father time is calling Chipper home unfortunately!
TheAntiMe
July 28th, 2011
11:08 pm
Why do you think that the Braves are looking for bullpen help? it isn’t just because of Proctor.
Athenzdawg
July 28th, 2011
11:09 pm
Please don’t waste our time for Josh Willingham if we needed another outfielder who was a “platoon” player who batted .240 which is his average now….we might as well keep who we have. We have won or lost with the crap thats in the field now, might as well keep our pitching and not give it up for more crap
DetroitBraves
July 28th, 2011
11:13 pm
McCutchen generally bats 3rd or 4th. Not leadoff. So while he is a good example of a capable hitter, he’s not an example of a leadoff hitter.
Sherrill and Linebrink have both provided slightly more than replacement level performances. So while their ineptness has probably been overstated, questioning their worth does not, Cuba, make one an “idiot”. In fact, projecting their already underwhelming performances to regress as the season goes on is probably reasonable. You may disagree. That doesn’t necessarily make you an “idiot” either.
Brave Fan
July 28th, 2011
11:22 pm
Our pen is as good as it can be. They can’t all be Ventors, Kimbrel. Thats why Sherril, linebrink are relievers but they are alright.
We need a leadoff and left fielder that can hit!!!!!!!!!!
Once you get to the playoffs the 5th starter and sometimes the 4th one end up in the pen anyway. How many times have the Braves won 95 plus games with a 5 man rotation and then get sent home by a team with 3 good starters(which we have) The other thing they had besides 3 starters were better position hitters.
We need a leadoff hitter and left fielder that can hit. It’ll allow our other guys to relax a little and wont be pitched around…
Need two hitters Frankie!!!!!!!!!
)
DetroitBraves
July 28th, 2011
11:31 pm
The greater issue isn’t how Sherrill and Linebrink have performed, but rather how they are perceived. Because they are obviously not as trustworthy, and for good reason, as the younger pitchers. As a result, Fredi has those guys logging too many innings. That’s the risk for the remainder of this season and the playoffs for the Braves bullpen. But as for your 4th and 5th starter idea, I would take it a step further and say the answer may be a 6th or 7th starter. Some of those guys in the minors have way more upside than our current relievers. It’s not unusal for teams to have rotation prospects log some innings in the bullpen to both keep their innings under wraps and get them some ML exposure. Given that the Braves have already set the arb clocks on 3 of those prospects that might be good in-house solution.
Its me RYAN
July 28th, 2011
11:33 pm
You need to understand this……The Braves will always be a team like this because they are cheap. Its just something to do in the ATL until football season starts. They never do enough to be the best team……always just pretty good, but not the best.
LoweGoAway
July 28th, 2011
11:44 pm
MAGGGOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOF, sucks
stanco
July 28th, 2011
11:45 pm
@ Brave Fan 11:22 and @ Its me RYAN 11:33
You both are dead-on!!!
Brave Fan
July 28th, 2011
11:48 pm
I hope they pull the trigger and make a significant trade.
Nobody was talking about Beachy, Medlin like they are these guys, Teheran, Delgado…now. I know they are good but they all aren’t going to be great. The Martinez guy now, he is really tough but came in way under the radar.
I say all this b/c if we gwt the two players we need, we could win the whole thing. We do nothing or do an Ankiel or Derrick Lee deal, we just get the same old crap.
jgral
July 28th, 2011
11:59 pm
Dont force a trade, there is always next year with a great young group, The Phils look stacked anyway..
–
Atlanta Insight: Top 5 Moments in ATL Sports History – http://bit.ly/atlblog
Roland's Office, Hunter's Pence
July 29th, 2011
12:00 am
One of the biggest problems with having an inconsistent, inadequate offense is that it gives your pitching staff and defense NO margin for error. Also, our weak offense has contributed to the large number of extra-inning games, which taxes the bullpen.
Overall, Sherrill and Linebrink have pitched surprisingly well except for their slow starts. Adding to the pressure on the bullpen is the tendency for our starters to get removed around the 6th-7th inning too often, mostly due to elevated pitch counts or choosing the 5th or 6th inning to hit a rough spot.
If our offense could get an extra run per game, the starters could be stretched more often, and the primary relievers could get more rest. Also, the back-end guys would have extra cushion when they come in. It’s time for the offense to wake up — maybe it’s time for a legit leadoff hitter (with a good on-base pct) in CF and someone to platoon with Heyward against lefties – he’s hitting .167 against them. If they don’t produce more runs, it’s unfair to expect our pitchers to continue carrying all of the load into October….. GO BRAVES!!!
BravesFan
July 29th, 2011
12:18 am
Detroitbrave@11:13 McClutchen was lead-off hitter till one of there players got hurt and he was put batting 4th. He was and is still a dang good lead-off hitter if they put him there. Some smart a@@’s like to cut everyone down..get a life.
Hillbilly D
July 29th, 2011
12:32 am
Atlanta Insight: Top 5 Moments in ATL Sports History
The top 5 moments in Atlanta sports history doesn’t include Sid Bream’s slide?
heartofdarkness
July 29th, 2011
12:51 am
wait ’til next year…
Larry
July 29th, 2011
2:33 am
Braves jus traded for hunter pence
REALLY?!?
July 29th, 2011
3:55 am
Larry… you better not be joking about this. If we actually did get Pence, get out your tomahawk chops because this team just got waaayyy better. Also.. Great article Mr. Schultz. You’ve put my thoughts into words.
Old Timer
July 29th, 2011
5:26 am
Last year the Braves were bashed by many bloggers here and won the wild card and lost to the World Champion Giants. This year, they are getting bashed by many bloggers here and they have the 4th best record in all of baseball. The highly critical bloggers should be sentenced to Cubs, Royals and Tigers season tickets. I bet 90% of the highly critical bloggers on here were season ticket Thrasher fans. STFU! and let the Braves and their supberb management handle the Braves. Or better yet, move your azzes back up north where they do everything right!
DetroitBraves
July 29th, 2011
7:41 am
Bravesfan, no. Jose Tabata was the leadoff hitter until he got hurt. But perhaps what you meant to say is that McCutchen, like many other all-star caliber hitters, can be a capable leadoff hitter. With that I can’t argue.
DetroitBraves
July 29th, 2011
7:45 am
Roland’s Office, good point. One way to save the young arms in the pen is to get another quality reliever or two. But another way is to score more runs so that the bullpen isn’t always pitching in high leverage situations.
Vicdawg
July 29th, 2011
8:13 am
MATT KEMP…..MATT KEMP…..MATT KEMP. Right Handed bat. Lots of power. Plays centerfield. Doesn’t get hurt. MAKE THE TRADE!!!
Atticus
July 29th, 2011
8:20 am
Jeff we don’t follow Twitter because Twitter is a joke and we have lives.
DetroitBraves
July 29th, 2011
8:21 am
Vicdawg, is Matt Kemp still available? I know when Torre was there that he supposedly didn’t care much for him – kind of like Colby Rasmus with La Russa in St. Louis. But now Torre is gone and Kemp is having a big year. Love the idea though.
@Old Timer, hey I get what you’re saying but the Tigers are in first place. Granted, it’s a terrible division but the Tigers have a pretty good shot at making the playoffs. It’s possible they’ll be the worst team in the playoffs but have the best hitter in the field (Miguel Cabrera) and best pitcher (Verlander). That’s a recipe for an upset in a short series if I’ve ever heard one.
the truth...
July 29th, 2011
8:33 am
I don’t want to give up any of our talent…but we do need some offensive help…cannot deny that. We are a hurting team and need an infusion of energy and talent with the bat.
Want to see what CAN happen; one of the best trades ever in mid-season was pulled off here in Chop Town…..
Fred McGriff
Braves, 1993
Atlanta took advantage of the Padres’ fire sale to bring in McGriff, who sparked the Braves to a 51-18 record the rest of the season and the NL West crown. The Crime Dog batted .310 with 19 home runs and 55 RBI.
Read more: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/multimedia/photo_gallery/0707/mlb.Best.Deadline.Deals/content.4.html#ixzz1TUrkNKlD
51-18 imagine that….
That would do it I’d say.
Steve
July 29th, 2011
8:42 am
I think Wren needs to get moving on a deal for Bj Upton!!!!!!!
DetroitBraves
July 29th, 2011
8:42 am
For those familiar with Buster Olney, he had this post this morning: Observation from an NL official about the Braves’ interest in Hunter Pence: “They don’t value on-base percentage as much as other teams do.”
Um, not good.
Steve
July 29th, 2011
8:45 am
We send the Rays a package of Minor, McClouth and Lowe and throw Kawakami in for FREE since we have already lost enough on him for Bj Upton! Sounds fair to me!
RB
July 29th, 2011
8:49 am
Is it just me, or does anyone else wonder about Larry Parrish? Has any hitting coach ever gotten less out of his players? Even TP was better than this. If the players we have were healthy and hitting even twenty points better, we wouldn’t be having this conversation.
Holoman
July 29th, 2011
8:51 am
If the Braves don’t sign a good hitter there scores if they make the Wild Card would be losing 3-0,6-0,and 2-0. They have absolutely no offense. I feel confident in only McCann (hurt) and Freeman hitting.
Mr. Wren needs to make a move for a young bat under contract for several years. Can you say Hunter Pence ?
Holoman
July 29th, 2011
8:53 am
I’ve told you before, Larry Parrish is like the Buddha on the fireplace. He’s just a novelty item posing as a hitting coach. They could do away with that position along with bench coach in a minute and nothing would change.
Holoman
July 29th, 2011
8:55 am
Trade Teheran and Minor for Evan Longoria.
DetroitBraves
July 29th, 2011
8:55 am
RB, I think the problems run deeper than Larry Parrish. Organizationally, they just don’t seem to value a patient approach at the plate. So this is what you get – low on-base percentages, low batting averages, not very many walks, and then you don’t score because it’s hard to score when you can’t get on base. I think Francouer is Francouer, I don’t know that the Braves deserve a lot of blame there, but there have been some other guys with good approaches that have tended to become less accomplished hitters the longer in the organization. Kelly Johnson comes to mind, and I’m fearful that they are messing up Jason Heyward. Just an observation. What do other people think?
Holoman
July 29th, 2011
8:57 am
Pence,Kemp,Quentin,Upton,etc. are all available but Wren sits and does nada. A blind mute could see and tell you that the Braves offense cannot win in the playoffs.It figures…
Holoman
July 29th, 2011
9:04 am
Jurrgens has a great month wins award. Nate,Gonzo,and Heyward can’t even have good days let alone a whole month of production…
HAL
July 29th, 2011
9:07 am
heywardsoutfield play wouldent be accepted by a lotof double a teams probably about the livels hes capable of carlos q qould be an upgrade in right heck diesels an upgrade in right at least he moves when the balls hit not when its arcing over his head as one right fielder does
Holoman
July 29th, 2011
9:16 am
Damn those Red Sox & Phillies. They also want Hunter Pence. Read this link.
http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news;_ylt=AoUxaDKf88Zr7KjzonaszWgRvLYF?slug=ti-brown_hardball_trade_buzz_astros_pence_072811
Nonfan
July 29th, 2011
9:26 am
My dream job is to be the “hitting” coach for the Braves. The man probably gets paid a lot more than I do and as far as I can tell he does nothing. From the looks of some of the Braves “hitters”, they apparently pay no attention to him.
Joey
July 29th, 2011
9:31 am
Better get somebody, anybody who can do something besides pop-up or hit into a double-play with RISP.
O-my
July 29th, 2011
9:48 am
Upton hit #16 last night and Fransworth got # 20 save.
Mister Frisky
July 29th, 2011
9:59 am
Almost forgot about that stud Ryan Church.Thanks for the memories Schultzy.
As Braves talk trade (Pence?), Ross says ‘We need a piece’ | Jeff Schultz
July 29th, 2011
10:13 am
[...] know where I stand: general manager Frank Wren would be playing a dangerous game if he did nothing of [...]
RayJay
July 29th, 2011
11:09 am
Unfortunately we’re not in a pennant race. We’re in a battle for the wild card and that battle is going to heat up! Best of luck Bravos, we’re still lovin and pullin for ya!
GET PENCE!!!
July 29th, 2011
12:10 pm
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2011/07/hunter-pence-rumors-friday-1.html
Wren just WILL NOT part with Minor. I get that he’s a lefty, but he is not as good as Wren is making him sound. This is frustrating.
Did Falcons just take lead over Braves in title pursuit? | Jeff Schultz
July 29th, 2011
2:32 pm
[...] question now: Are the Braves willing to do what it would take to land a high-profile player like Houston’s Hunter Pence or the Chicago White Sox’ Carlos Quentin, or do they settle [...]
WilliamO
July 29th, 2011
11:59 pm
I am not surprised that we didnt even as told tonight even get involved in the pence circus they need a player yes but not give up the farm to get it. but we do need a bat. not wait til the deadline is long gone and we are ten games out and of the division and let the wild car slip away. when you average 3 runs or less a game and all those arms get tired all you chipper bashers out there better hope that chipper gets back in the lineup soon not to mention brian. We need a center fielder and if you think that schaefer is that man you are delusional. as for nate he should have been out the door a long time ago as far aa the bull pen goes bring up vizciano up for bull pen help. get rid of linebrink and proctor. use the young arms down on the farm and go get a bat. maybe the marlins would give us infante back cheap. Hes proof that you dont have to get that big name guy to get the job done. he was an all star last season and he can play multiple positions.