McCann shows a spark, but will Braves give him new deal?
Brian McCann's solo homer in second inning jump-started the Braves' offense. (AP photo)
(UPDATED: 10 p.m.)
In his first six full major league seasons, Brian McCann has played in six All-Star games, won an All-Star game MVP, won five Silver Slugger awards, accumulated more home runs, RBIs, extra-base hits and game-winning hits than any catcher in baseball, won a lot of games, smiled a lot, never caused a riff and has proved to be so genuine and honest that he probably wouldn’t know a magic muscle-inflating pill if one did a backflip into his morning Cocoa Puffs.
“He puts up numbers, and he did it even when other guys were taking performance-enhancers,” Braves teammate David Ross said. “He’s more like, ‘How many Advil should I take?’ I can’t corrupt him. He won’t even drink a Red Bull. I want to punch him.”
All of which makes you wonder how it could be that the Braves and McCann may part ways at some point in the near future.
The Braves are off to a good start. They own the second-best record in the National League after Tuesday’s 6-2 win over Cincinnati. Until this game, almost everybody had been hitting except McCann (.231), their most consistent player over the past several seasons. But after he homered, walked and singled in his first three at-bats, maybe that aberration is complete.
There figured to be a market correction. With a career average of .286, McCann has been too good for too long for him to not rebound. The question is whether those numbers will factor into what the Braves do next with McCann contractually.
His salary this year jumped to $11.5 million (after escalators). The Braves have a $12 million club option for next season, but negotiating during a contract year can be problematic. So logic suggests the team and McCann’s agent will start talking soon.
But are the Braves fully committed to re-signing McCann? St. Louis signed catcher Yadier Molina to a five-year, $75 million extension. If we assume that’s the benchmark, it questionable whether Wren will give a long-term, $15 million-a-year deal to a catcher. There’s no room for McCann (now 28) to eventually move to first base (Freddie Freeman), and the National League doesn’t use the designated hitter.
“We have a mutual understanding of how we’ll approach this process,” Wren said of negotiations, not elaborating. It’s executive Latin for, “No comment.”
McCann said, “I understand it’s a business. They have to do what’s best for them, and I have to do what’s best for me. I’m just going to play as hard as I can and let everything else fall into place.”
This much is certain: There were fan backlashes after the way the Braves handled the exits of John Smoltz and Tom Glavine. Those guys were at the end of their careers. If the Braves decide a popular player in his prime such as McCann is too expensive, even with Chipper Jones coming off the books, cars may be torched.
How McCann plays this season has obvious ramifications. He struggled in the second half last season (.203) after hitting .310 at the All-Star break. He acknowledges now he came back too early from a strained oblique, saying, “Ninety mile-an-hour pitches were looking 95. The game sped up on me. If that happened again, I would definitely play a few more games in Triple A.”
This season, he feels “seven to 10 hits” have been lost to opponents often shifting their defense to the right. But he says he’s healthy, adding, “When I’m feeling good I get hits. I just have to start using the whole field. I have to start making that shift irrelevant.”
The knock on McCann always has been his defense, but his backup, Ross, believes criticism is overstated. Statistics show McCann annually allows among the most stolen bases in the league, which no doubt will be brought up in talks. But Ross believes the numbers are skewed, saying, “We don’t have the quickest pitchers to the plate.”
At worse, Ross said, McCann is “average” on defense.
“When you consider his offense and that he calls a great game, I’ll take that,” he said. “Mac’s one of the best. Catching is a demanding position. It’s not like you’re an outfielder and can take an inning off because you didn’t get a fly ball hit to you. I just hope the Braves realize what they have.”
A split is something most would rather not think about right now. But one-team athletes like Chipper Jones are a rarity.
By Jeff Schultz
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214 comments Add your comment
Bob
May 15th, 2012
7:13 pm
First!
1eyedJack
May 15th, 2012
7:15 pm
Say it ain’t so.
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
7:16 pm
Third!
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
7:17 pm
I pay $2.20 to show.
Bob
May 15th, 2012
7:17 pm
Frank Wren has to make the best baseball decision and if McCann is the type of person I think he is – his salary demands will be reasonable. Of course, they are all overpaid anyway!
BiggDawgK
May 15th, 2012
7:19 pm
The Braves are killing it both pitching and hitting. McCann is a good Athens boy I’m sure he will turn it around.
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
7:22 pm
Bob — “Reasonable” always is a tricky word though, isn’t it? Also worth noting that looking back, the Braves got McCann for a relative bargain over the past six years, given his production. This could be “makeup” time.
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
7:30 pm
Good calls at first and third. No argument here. Nice throw from Hinske.
Dawg Haus
May 15th, 2012
7:31 pm
McCann is the heir apparent to Chipper as the heart and soul of this team. The Braves should reward him the way the Cards did Molina.
"Chef" Tim Dix
May 15th, 2012
7:32 pm
We’ll never know but I think Chipper’s advice to BMac on a contract would be “Go west young man.”
Braves have to move him. Imagine telling your wife how you left 75M on the table because you love ATL
tonyb
May 15th, 2012
7:33 pm
Finding catchers of McCann’s caliber is very difficult. Coupled with the fact that he’s a fan favorite, local product, and probably the best player on the team, the Braves have to keep him.
Davey
May 15th, 2012
7:34 pm
Granted the Braves have done a better job than Atlanta Spirit (aka Daddy’s Boys) at spending money the right way but losing McCann would be a big blow for marketing with Chipper hanging it up and no really mainstream start names (excluding Huddy as a 1 of 5 day player). Until Heyward and Freeman get a couple more years under their belt of consistent baseball, BMac is really the main cog to this team at the plate and at the ticket window.
Mr. Kotter
May 15th, 2012
7:34 pm
I’m split on the Bourn dilemma. Pay him or not to pay him
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
7:34 pm
Dawg Haus — I second that emotion. But I’ve got a bad feeling about this one.
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
7:35 pm
“Chef” Tim Dix — I think it will be more like, “Go Northeast, young man.” (Red Sox or Yankees.)
Aaron
May 15th, 2012
7:36 pm
I know it’s naive but I dream of us having a few more Chippers (life-time Braves) with not only Mac but Freddie, J-Hey, Prado, and some of the pitchers. I know that likely won’t happen with any of ‘em – we don’t have the pockets the Yankees do, of course, which is why they had their core – and it hurts to consider. Focusing on the here and now and enjoying them while they’re here is all you can do, but it’s still hard to not look forward. The days Blauser, Glavine, and Javy left and even Maddux even though he wasn’t a Brave to start with all hurt, with Andruw I was pretty much expecting it, but still. I’ve fallen in love with this team, same as before, and I hate to know it’ll eventually separate.
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
7:37 pm
Well, there’s a slump-buster: McCann crushes pitch to right — 1-0 Braves.
1eyedJack
May 15th, 2012
7:37 pm
Catchers are tough. Tools of ignorance and all that. Pay the man. How does he compare to Johnny Bench?
Homerun. I rest my case.
"Chef" Tim Dix
May 15th, 2012
7:38 pm
Mr. Cot teer, here’s a note from my mother that says pay him.
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
7:40 pm
I think if McCann gets a new contract based on this game, I should get 5 percent. Just saying.
"Chef" Tim Dix
May 15th, 2012
7:43 pm
I’m thinking 5 for 22M, team option year 6.
Dawg Haus
May 15th, 2012
7:44 pm
I see what you mean, Jeff. The Braves aren’t exactly known for dishing it out in contract years. I hope he stays a Brave till retirement, though!
Dawg Haus
May 15th, 2012
7:47 pm
If McCann goes anywhere else, I think it would be Boston. With the way things have been going for them thus far this season, I’m sure they’ll be ready to gut that team and go on a Steinbrenner-esque spending spree this winter.
tmc
May 15th, 2012
7:52 pm
The toughest thing about McCann is that when he hits, you can live with his downfalls. When he doesn’t hit (like 2nd half of last year and most of this year), he is a SIV defensively.
His technique is horrendous and he’s not going to change that now.
The big problem for the Braves is if Brian’s hitting stays or falls back to average or below. You can’t pay a catcher big bucks and get bad defense also.
*and btw, his defense i’m speaking of is not his lack of throwing out base runners. It’s not catching balls in dirt, not blocking balls and lack of technique to attempt properly.
Billy Mac Dee
May 15th, 2012
7:53 pm
I’m torn. Either we try and sign McCann or we try and sign Bourn. As we have seen so far this year, Bourn is more important to the life of the offense. We have two interesting catcher prospects in the minors right now (Christian Bethancourt and Evan Gattis), one with great defense and one with some serious power.
I love McCann as much as anyone but maybe we need a stud center fielder right now more than we need to keep our stud catcher…
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
7:54 pm
It’s a hit for Jack Wilson (.146)! Sorry. Thought that was worthy of noting.
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
7:56 pm
Billy Mac Dee — I understand it may come down to that choice: McCann or Bourn. But Bourn is represented by Boras and I’m just not sure, even as good as he’s been, that he’s a break-the-bank centerfielder and leadoff hitter.
Bill
May 15th, 2012
7:56 pm
I love McCann but I’d rather the Braves sign Bourn than Mac..Ross can do the job till the kid at AAA is ready. Go Braves and thanks Jeff..Always love your reports.
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
7:56 pm
And as I type that, he gets a hit.
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
7:58 pm
Great piece of hitting by Prado, going to right for RBI single. Braves 2-0 with Chipper up and Bourn on third.
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
7:59 pm
Three straight singles — 3-0.
P B Orr
May 15th, 2012
7:59 pm
Unless McCann shows some leadership ability I will not be sad to see him go. I like watching the kid Braves anyway before we send them to the Yankees and Red Sox.
McCann fails again and again in clutch situations. He will not modify his swing or make any attempt to adjust to the shift (e.g. choke up, shorter stroke, smaller bat). This sort of stubbornness does not make a captain. I am told he calls a good game, but so does Ross.
McCann will benefit in the American League as a designated hitter.
tmc
May 15th, 2012
8:00 pm
i freaking love Martin Prado!
you go boyeeeeee.
Bill
May 15th, 2012
8:00 pm
how about that Chipper Jones…?
Sautee
May 15th, 2012
8:02 pm
Hey Jeff, do us Hawks fans a favor and let your editor know that Cunninghams blog is full. No more comments, though there’s no announcement of it BEING closed.
It’s frustrating when you can’t post with your blog community. AJC is being slack. Again.
We now return to your somewhat regularly scheduled in-game Braves blog.
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
8:02 pm
PB Orr — I can’t agree with you on the “clutch” factor with McCann, save the second half last year.
Stephen Colbert
May 15th, 2012
8:05 pm
Here’s a question for you Jeff;
If corporations are indeed people, why isn’t Mitt Romney indicted as a serial murderer?
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
8:06 pm
Sautee – There’s no such thing as a blog being “full.” If it was closed, it was closed for a reason.
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
8:09 pm
Braves will have batted around after this intentional walk. Jack Wilson, who started inning with single, coming up.
Tom from omaha
May 15th, 2012
8:09 pm
Anybody have any suntrust tickets for memorial day weekend. I’m coming all the way from Nebraska
Chris
May 15th, 2012
8:11 pm
Mac has been great in clutch situations in his career so that comment was way off base @P B Orr. He’s going to get an offer, but it won’t be the highest on the table. It will just come down to if he wants to stay in ATL or not. Personally I think he will take less money, but it depends on how much less. He doesn’t seem like he would enjoy NY or Boston, but he will do great wherever he goes. He’s already a team leader and the best catcher in baseball. Hopefully he sticks around, but we can’t keep everyone. Maybe our uninvolved ownership will sell to someone who really cares or they will pony up the dough and let us keep these guys.
Aaron
May 15th, 2012
8:11 pm
Absolutely love Jay battling like that and then ripping a double on the ninth pitch. Five-run lead for Huddy, just a beautiful thing.
Even more beautiful is who they’ve done it against. Cueto’s their ace, so it’s that much more gratifying.
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
8:11 pm
Four runs should do it — Braves lead 5-0. Four singles, double, walk, sac fly in inning but leave the bases loaded.
Rimfire
May 15th, 2012
8:14 pm
Why does business sense have to matter?
As was stated earlier in the day, Chipper off the books, Lowe off the books, etc, surely at some point Liberty will attempt to keep the asset value high enough to be worth selling at some point.
It was said that the TV deal Ted brokered handcuffs Liberty. Why does every other sports entity get to RE- negotiate, but not the Braves??? Angels Rangers and Dodgers just inked HUGE TV deals. Who is minding the store? ? ?
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
8:15 pm
Aaron — No kidding. Cureto entered game 4-0 with a 1.12 ERA. He’s already thrown 70 pitches in 3 innings (5 runs, 6 hits, 2 walks, homer, double).
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
8:19 pm
Not that it matters at 5-0 but Hudson doesn’t look all that great.
Bill
May 15th, 2012
8:21 pm
Stephen Colbert..what about Fast and Furious–should Eri Holder and the Pres be charged and indicted for being serial murderers? Why not?
TomahawkChoppin'
May 15th, 2012
8:21 pm
The 24 million from D Lowe and Chipper is going to help with Bourn and Mac, but it may not be enough. Do you think that if they didnt resign JJ that the extra 5.5 million could help? I feel like 29.5 can sign Mac and Bourn
Aaron
May 15th, 2012
8:24 pm
Jeff, it’s like a theme with them. Santana, Dickey, Wandy Rodriguez, Halladay, all three Cards pitchers over the weekend, Cueto tonight, we know these are such great pitchers and the guys grind out the at-bats and make things happen and make those aces all look human. Yeah they’ve been outmatched at times like by Blanton, etc, but there’s no pitcher at this point you look at the pre-game matchup and think “Oh my gosh we’re gonna get carved up like a side of meat. We have no hope unless the guy gets hurt.”
Bill
May 15th, 2012
8:25 pm
Everyone should make sure you vote for Bourn All-Star.
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
8:26 pm
TomahawkChoppin — I think Jurrjens is a goner. But I don’t think it’s just about having enough money to sign those 2 guys to long-term deals. Teams have to plan ahead and Braves know that Heyward, Freeman, Prado (if he’s kept), Hanson, Beachy, Kimbrel all must be signed at some point. Not everybody can get the big money.
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
8:28 pm
Two run-scoring hits for Prado, although he was thrown out trying to stretch it into a double.
Aaron
May 15th, 2012
8:30 pm
Bill already did. Voted for all eight guys – unashamed homer here – and Josh Hamilton on the AL side all 25 times the day voting opened. Haha.
TomahawkChoppin'
May 15th, 2012
8:31 pm
Yeah I was just about to ask you when will it be time to ante up for Prado. He has been through arbitration the past couple years right?
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
8:32 pm
That’s it for Cuerto (4-0, 1.12 entering game): 4 innings, 6 runs, 8 hits, 2 walks, homer, 82 pitches.
Bill
May 15th, 2012
8:33 pm
thats great Aaron..I voted for Hamilton also.
The Bourn Macpremacy
May 15th, 2012
8:36 pm
@Jeff, who do you think is more likely too be a Brave next year. Bourn or McCann?
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
8:37 pm
Alfredo Simon coming in for Cincinnati.
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
8:39 pm
TomahawkChoppin’ — Not sure but I think Prado has one year of arbitration left.
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
8:40 pm
The Bourn Macpremacy — Honestly, don’t have a great feel for either. But it’s early.
iTiSi
May 15th, 2012
8:43 pm
Don’t have anybody to check with now that Skip is gone, but can I go let the dog walk me now?
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
8:44 pm
Contracts update: Prado, Jurrjens, O’Flaherty all scheduled for third year of arbitration after season. Heyward, Hanson, Venters, Martinez, Venters all 1st year of arbitration.
The Bourn Macpremacy
May 15th, 2012
8:45 pm
The Braves also have to find a left fielder assuming Prado moves to third.
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
8:45 pm
McCann’s three at-bats: home run, walk, single.
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
8:48 pm
iTiSi — Also this: “As long as you patronize our sponsors, you have permission to change the channel.”
Geno
May 15th, 2012
8:49 pm
Ross could also start almost anywhere. Solid D and good batting average. He puts an interesting spin on this situation.
iTiSi
May 15th, 2012
8:51 pm
Dang, I miss Skip even more than I thought I would. I loved to hear him get tickled at his own puns, etc.
TomahawkChoppin'
May 15th, 2012
8:52 pm
Braves let Jurrjens walk. Resign Prado for a slight raise depending on his season, and O Flaherty’s numbers will def be down from last year, so maybe not much of a raise there. Sad that Martinez could end up being a arbitration casualty. Sooner or later Huddie will come off the books, so more money to play with.
One of these years will be Rossy’s last with the Braves. I hate it because he is such a good clubhouse guy, but eventually bethancourt is the backup, and that saves some money.
IceColdATLien
May 15th, 2012
8:54 pm
The Liberty Media Braves (has a Japan-like ring to it, no?) aren’t likely to pay up for both Mac and Bourn, so who would you sign if you had to pick, Jeff? (assume that whoever you choose will get a top-5 positional contract cuz that’s what it’ll take to get either)
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
8:57 pm
IceColdATLien — If I had to pick I would take McCann, which I realize many would dispute. But so much of this has to do with dollars. Which guy will get more “crazy” dollars on open market? Not sure right now.
Aaron
May 15th, 2012
8:58 pm
It will be a lot easier to see Mac leave if he goes to the AL, which seems an almost certainty if he does go, right? We know where his heart’ll always be and even if we lose him, he’ll always be a Brave.
On a different subject, kinda fun to ponder the idea of a David Ross-managed team with Chipper as the hitting coach. Imagine that camaraderie and playing environment, that’d be terrific.
Steve
May 15th, 2012
9:00 pm
Jeff, do you know the last Boras free agent the Braves actually signed or resigned?
Benchy Johns
May 15th, 2012
9:00 pm
Well, whatever happens, you can rest assured the Braves will bungle it.
Skeezix
May 15th, 2012
9:02 pm
I miss Skip every game. Over many, many years of listening to him on TV and radio, it was like he became a member of our family. My wife and I loved his sense of humor. I liked him best on radio.
Steve
May 15th, 2012
9:03 pm
Will be interesting to see if the Braves go for a big time free agent this offseason with all of the money that will be freed up, assuming they don’t sign Bourn. Regarding McCann, it sure would be strange seeing him in a Yankees or Red Sox Uniform.
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
9:05 pm
Steve — Good question. Obviously didn’t re-sign Texiera. I think Hanson, Jurrjens both with him. .. I know Maddox was with him but don’t know if you have to go that far back.
P B Orr
May 15th, 2012
9:05 pm
I can see Bourn as the new hero for the Braves. That guy is exciting and he plays like a kid. Remember when baseball was filled with great African-American ballplayers? I was thinking of getting one of those new/old jerseys like Tony Cloninger wore with “BOURN”’s name and number. Or “AARON”
Geno
May 15th, 2012
9:05 pm
McCann is such a classy and all-around good guy that it is kind of sad that it comes down to a heartless business decision. The heart says keep in in Atlanta, but the head says let him hit the market. Bourne has more years ahead and resolves the leadoff dilemma that has plagued the Bravos sine Furcal.
David
May 15th, 2012
9:06 pm
Jeff, if the Braves were to win it all this year does that change the scenario? Would they be willing to spend more to keep championship core? Or is it all the same for ownership?
Taco
May 15th, 2012
9:07 pm
This just in, give Michael Bourne whatever he wants to stay at the top of our lineup please. Mac will be fine and come thru with big hits. BTW no matter what Derek Lowes record is we are so lucky he is gone! Like watching a sweaty old woman through BP.
DZ
May 15th, 2012
9:08 pm
McCann looking good tonight.
iTiSi
May 15th, 2012
9:09 pm
Those 3 guys sitting behind home plate to the left have my curiosity up. They were sitting in those same seats last night with long sleeve dress shirts and ties on. Two of them are in long sleeves tonight. Maybe it’s just me but they look out of place. Liberty Media free seats maybe?
Steve
May 15th, 2012
9:09 pm
Ahh, you are correct, according to Wikipedia. Last one we signed was Lowe according to that infallible source. Might have over paid on that one
P B Orr
May 15th, 2012
9:09 pm
It’s not about being a good guy. It’s about money and wear and tear. In the past a valuable hitting catcher could migrate to 1st base, unless there was already a stud there, which is what we’ve got. In the modern game with the weird strike zone and impressionistic umpiring, the real value of a catcher is in calling the game and playing good defense, and if he can hit, great.
Steve
May 15th, 2012
9:12 pm
Maybe they bring back Greg Norton? Along with your buddy Marcus Giles? Ha.
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
9:16 pm
David — A budget is a budget but obviously if there was some increased revenue from playoff games and sellouts during a pennant race, it could factor into the payroll.
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
9:17 pm
Hudson hasn’t been overly sharp this game but has battled, finally touched for 2 runs this inning. Pitch count is up to 95.
WeBurn
May 15th, 2012
9:18 pm
I promise no cars will be torched if McCann leaves. He’s got a good bat…for a catcher. He’s not CLOSE to the level of hero status compared to Glavine and Smoltz. We’ve lost plenty of players at or near their prime, but we never cared for ANY of them liked how Glavine and Smoltz were beloved. And like you said, we couldn’t move him to another position, plus we know his replacement is close to majors-ready.
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
9:20 pm
WeBurn — McCann career-wise obviously doesn’t carry hero-status of Smoltz and Glavine. Difference is he would still have several years left in his career. That’s my point.
Kudzu
May 15th, 2012
9:21 pm
Here’s a comment I would love to hear a player make “I know they’re (the Braves) are going to do what’s best for the team, and I’m going to do what’s best for (the team)…
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
9:21 pm
Hudson gets out of it with 2 runs. Assuming that will be his last inning.
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
9:23 pm
Random comment: Sorry, but I’ve just never gotten into “Thank God I’m a Country Boy” by John Denver. (Seventh inning anthem.)
Blahblahblah
May 15th, 2012
9:25 pm
Offer to tear up the $12 million option for 2013, and offer a fresh 5 year $75 million deal starting next year. It exactly matches Molina. If McCann says “no”, so be it. The fault won’t lie with the team.
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
9:27 pm
Hudson out, Medlen in.
Sonny Clusters
May 15th, 2012
9:28 pm
“Thank God, we’re a country boy.” They can lose that song anytime they wish as far as we are concerned.
Steve
May 15th, 2012
9:31 pm
Jeff do you see the Braves sending Minor down if he keeps struggling and bringing up Teheran?
OldTimer
May 15th, 2012
9:41 pm
According to CNN the Bible is all for gay mariage.
tampa Braves fan
May 15th, 2012
9:45 pm
Why is Jack Wilson still on this team? Got to have something better than this on the farm? Never get a clutch hit and only really plays 1 position.
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
9:50 pm
Had to leave you to get column update ready … It’s Kimbrel time.
Only the Braves...
May 15th, 2012
9:55 pm
Letting McCann go would be a huge mistake. This being the Braves we’re talking about, he’s gone.
JJ
May 15th, 2012
10:00 pm
Ole Timer, who watches CNN anyway..its a F-joke!
Jeff Schultz
May 15th, 2012
10:02 pm
Kimbrel played with fire but it’s over.
Column updated.
http://blogs.ajc.com/jeff-schultz-blog/2012/05/15/mccann-hopes-to-rebound-contract-situation-lingering/
Bill
May 15th, 2012
10:07 pm
Thanks Jeff…Good-night
Knucksie
May 15th, 2012
10:10 pm
What other lead off hitters/outfielders are going into free agent years, catchers too. I’d love to see Andrew McCutchen (but that will not happen) in a Braves uni
Delbert D.
May 15th, 2012
10:24 pm
With the Braves no real owner, it’s hard to predict what will happen.
Hillbilly D
May 15th, 2012
10:24 pm
Catching takes quite a toll on the body and catchers get old faster than other players. This is McCann’s 7th full year in the Big Leagues and he’ll most likely go over 1000 games played, this year. That has to be taken into consideration, when you’re talking contract. It’ll come down to money and length of contract, I’d guess, as to whether he stays or goes.
Delbert D.
May 15th, 2012
10:26 pm
I didn’t really leave out words, did ?
Buckheadbrave
May 15th, 2012
10:28 pm
I just hope their offer doesn’t insult the guy……
Michael G.
May 15th, 2012
10:29 pm
as long as the team is operating under budget constraints, there’s no way we can or should resign McCann. The Braves can’t afford to overpay for a guy that’s only going to have diminishing returns at that position, no matter how beloved a figure he is in the city. It is, after all, a business.
Buckheadbrave
May 15th, 2012
10:30 pm
With that said I’d go 5-60 for Bourn and 3-45 for McCann
Nativebird
May 15th, 2012
10:40 pm
Sign Brian Mccan? Get comfortable with this; he’s Just a pure net cost to Liberty Media. No economic return on investment whatsoever. Really, just call the accounting department. There’s some mid-level Manger in a cubicle somewhere in the Liberty finance organization right now whose job it is to input the total expense line called “Atlanta Braves” on a spreadsheet once a year……this is who is running this franchise. And This is why they will never win a world series under current ownership.
Brownie
May 15th, 2012
10:43 pm
This may just come down to Mac vs Bourn. yes, the Braves have a great deal of money coming available with the departures of Chipper, Jurrjens and Lowe (approx $30m+), however they’ve got some paydays upcoming to worry about with Prado, Heyward, Freeman, Kimbrel, O’Flaherty, Venters, Medlin, etc.
Mac has been great during his career here – but the question will be length of term as much as dollars. He’s nearing 30 yrs old, and his body will begin to show the wear soon (maybe already is). His batting average and results will begin to drop steadily, along with his catching skills.
Bottom line is you can’t pay big contract dollars based on past performance – it’s got to be based on expected future results….the ugly business side of baseball.
Bourn is the same age, but in significantly better physical shape, playing CF will take less a toll, is a high OBP lead-off hitter….more of an impact player for the Braves in the future. If they have to choose between to two, I’d take Bourn.
The Braves have NO CF’ers coming thru the ranks (certainly not leadoff hitter caliber), but have 2 strong catching prospects. That has to be taken into account.
IF Mac’s agent goes for big money, but more importantly a long contract….Mac may just end up in the AL so the DH can be in his future. Nobody wants him to leave now, and neither does he likely, but it might just have to happen.
Bravesfan79
May 15th, 2012
10:50 pm
Keep Mccan, and Bourne!
P Rose
May 15th, 2012
10:50 pm
Ever wonder why Atlanta always seems to have so many excellent pitchers, why they raise so many good ones on the farm, and why pitchers from other organizations seem to turn their careers around after they come to Atlanta? The answer is simple: Brian McCann. The Braves will resign him long-term.
Jake
May 15th, 2012
10:51 pm
There’s a knock on his defense for good reason. On his best days, he’s mediocre. And it’s not just about allowing steals. He’s the worst catcher I’ve ever seen when it comes to blocking balls in the dirt. Instead of blocking the ball, he tries to catch them. Whether it’s laziness or poor technique it’s hard to say, but it seems like every other day balls get by him and runners move up into scoring position. It’s shocking to see in a major leaguer, and interesting how none of the announcers call him on it.
cdog
May 15th, 2012
10:55 pm
good catchers are hard to find.braves should resign him whatever it takes. hes one of the best
cabbage
May 15th, 2012
11:05 pm
no brainer…Bourn. excellent leadoff and a golden glove vs reasonably capable hitter with avg defensive ability
Here we go again..
May 15th, 2012
11:43 pm
Was there really that much backlash surrounding Glavine and Smoltz, besides from themselves? I think history proved the Braves were right in both of those situations. Nobody picked up Glavine although he had numerous “options” and ask Boston about Smoltz.
Blog comments are retarded
May 15th, 2012
11:48 pm
You bring up McCann’s contract numbers over his first six seasons. The Braves might have gotten a “bargin” in 2010 (5.7M) and in 2011 (6.7M) but in those arbitration years, McCann could have made maybe 6M & 8.5M respectively? McCann also had the privilege of getting a guaranteed contract. That HAS to be worth something. At best, the Braves “bargin” is a wash. McCann was paid well for a player with <6 years of service and because he chose the guaranteed money, he gave up a little in terms of actual cash.
I don't think the Braves are working from a deficit (in terms of negotiating with McCann). It was a fair deal when it was signed and included considerable risk for the team, especially with McCann's position on the field.
In the end, I don't think a contract gets worked out. The Braves have Heyward, Hanson, Venters, Martinez and Medlen eligible for arbitration for the first time in '13. Prado is entering his final year of arbitration. In '14, Kimbrel, Freeman and Beachy will be eligible for arbitration. There are a lot of young players that will be requiring money that could potentially be tied up in McCann.
McCann deserves every penny that he can get, but unfortunately, with a payroll under $95M, I don't see it happening in Atlanta.
John Malone, please sell the Braves to a billionaire who wants a new toy and doesn't mind losing money to win. Thanks.
Maybe Gattis should return to his duties behind the plate.
Here we go again..
May 15th, 2012
11:50 pm
Hey Jeff, I recall the Braves stepping up and giving McCann the largest contract for a player with less than two years experience back at the time in 2007. Any chance he remembers that?
JASon
May 16th, 2012
12:03 am
Hey Brian, do you have any connection to atlanta, the fans you ingrateful pr!ck. All you have to say for yourself is its a business you piece of crap. You’re making that much money and its a f-ing “business”
Go f yourself how is that for business
PaulieOldschool
May 16th, 2012
12:03 am
Great. So we won’t pay Broun or McCann and they will depart our fair city for places where someone who understands the game and the financial aspects of same reside. Brilliant.
BC
May 16th, 2012
12:25 am
Please delete the stupid first comments.
rw
May 16th, 2012
12:34 am
I hate to say this, but McCann might be better off going to an American league team where he could catch 120 games per year and DH another 30 games per year. He could probably extend his career by a year or two and there’s not as much risk for an American League team on the backend of the contract because of the option to move him to DH if the physical wear and tear of catching becomes too much.
Dmac
May 16th, 2012
1:10 am
Native Bird – I agree with you 100%. The braves are nothing but a budget line item for Liberty Media. Not a single Liberty Media Executive has even attended a Braves game. It is a shame that Major League Baseball even allowed them to be sold as a tax free stock transaction. Look at the Braves who have mostly held payroll for the last five to seven years when teams like the Phillies spend double on their payroll. I wish Ted Turner would up and buy them again. Bourn has been a huge excitement but I don’t think it matters if we sign McCann or not, they won’t pay the money for Bourn. Or McCann.
Rob Go Braves
May 16th, 2012
1:56 am
Wren and the Braves need to find a way to keep both McCann and Bourne. I’ll kick in my share by over paying for parking, beer, and dogs.
clay
May 16th, 2012
3:45 am
Mcann will be a brave for years to come. He will give the Braves the home team discount. You can tell he wants to start and finish his career here.
SawThat1nce
May 16th, 2012
4:21 am
I don’t know if McCann’s body can hold up for another 5 years, after 2013, playing in the NL.
Army Strong
May 16th, 2012
4:27 am
I feel the need to address a few comments knocking McCann’s leadership ability. . . Does anyone recall Chipper calling Brian the new face of the franchise (after he leaves)? The front office will surely have a HoF 3rd basemen and a HoF former manager whispering in their ear when negotiations heat up. Imagine what message the front office would be sending by not re-signing McCann. It would effectively go something along the lines of, “we drafted, signed, and re-signed you. But your six straight All-Star games, and five straight silver sluggers just aren’t quite what we’re looking for”.
Who will be the new face of the franchise if he leaves? Jason Heyward: The junior 22 year-old outfielder who has yet to show consistency? Freddie Freeman: An accomplished, but even younger 22 year-old sophomore? Michael Bourn (assuming he re-signs): The veteran who has been a Brave less than 2 full seasons? I ask, and I answer: no one. There are alot of young, talented players. But none have the veteran presence and a knowledge of this team and city the way Mac does.
Statistically, what Yadier can’t hit, he makes up for with his defense; evidenced by his three Gold Gloves in the past four years. He’s a respectable .275 hitter and has shown recent pop. He’s a year older than Brian, but in the prime of his career none-the-less. He handles his staff like no one else in the game. He’s a leader in the clubhouse. He’s everything Mac is to the Braves on and off the field.
I see Brian looking at a very similar deal to Yadier’s at 5 yrs/ 15-17 mil/year. That will free up cap space once the deal reaches its end in case the Braves want to sign long-term deals to some of the 13 young guys (Beachy, Heyward, Freeman, Minor, etc.) making <$750,000. I hope the boys can get this deal done. There's no one else I'd rather have representing the Braves organization than number 16.
Gritsfalcon
May 16th, 2012
5:20 am
Good article and I have wondered what the status is of his contract negotiations (or lack there of) now I know. I hope they can resign him.
chipper's ACL
May 16th, 2012
6:52 am
This will be a tough call but let’s look at the reality of the situation. Yes Brian is an offensive plus for the team but most teams don’t depend on thier catcher to produce. Good defense, game calling, and a little power is all that is expected. Injury is just a slide away. Locking up an offensive catcher, not a complete catcher, wuld not be team wise. The obvious talked about stats are there, errors, passed balls, etc. Digging deeper look at team ERA between Mac and Ross. The drop in starter innings per start have been low for years. How is it Hanson averages less than 6 innings per start? Falls back to the person calling the game. Yes we all love Mac for who he is and what he does but this is a results based game. Locking him up for 5-6 years would hinder the team in the long haul, especially if a dreaded injury does occur. Trade him this off season or at the deadline next year, receive 4 good prospects and use the funds to sure up center and any additional holes.
dcb
May 16th, 2012
7:13 am
Professional sports in general is only “a business” because of the agents. I mean what more do you need than 11.5 mil a year? Perhaps the clubs ought to start thinking of giving a percentage of the annual profits of the Club in addition to a reasonable base salary for the big names – and not the big guaranteed bucks that are now being made regardless of whether on the disabled list or performance. Its crazy to think of this as “just a business” – where is the loyalty, where is the commitment to the long-time fan? Gone – just like I wish were the agents who have literally made millions, but ruined the attraction of the professional arena …. in virtually all sports where there are no guarantees and players are only paid on the basis of performance such as golf and tennis.
Greg
May 16th, 2012
7:16 am
We all like Brian. However, usually when you sign a guy to huge deal when his best years might be behind him you live to regret it. Baseball needs performance based contracts.
BobDawg
May 16th, 2012
7:29 am
Let’s face it, with Chipper gone after this year we need all the “good bats” in the lineup we can find…
BobDawg
May 16th, 2012
7:31 am
ROB GO BRAVES… well said…. We really need to pack the park this summer so they can get these guys signed in the next few years….
BobDawg
May 16th, 2012
7:32 am
DMAC…. the Phils are packing 45,000+ every night in their park….
Merson
May 16th, 2012
7:33 am
It would be a shame to let one of the best catchers in baseball get way…..Mac is 28, made all-star 6 years in a row, to smart of a hitter, gotta rest him a day or two more with Ross every now and then….Atlanta has the best catcher 1-2 position in baseball……Plus who is ready in minors to fill his shoes, (no one) much less next years free agents…..No one of Mac’s production……SIGN B MAC!
danny
May 16th, 2012
8:03 am
I love Mac, but if I am the GM, you have to trade him. He is already showing signs of breaking down a tad and it’s only going to get worse. We have no where else to put him on the field. A team like Boston would give the farm foe Mac right now. IMHO, and hate saying this because I absolutely LOVE Mac, you have to sign Bourn over him. Not to mention all the young players who’s contracts will soon be coming up ( Heyward, Kimbrel, Freeman, Venters)
Let's Go
May 16th, 2012
8:03 am
There is just no way you can give a catcher at his age a 5 or 6 year contract for 15 mil a year. At 28 years of age McCann is starting his downward slide and probably has 4 really productive “catcher years” left. I would like to see the the Braves offer a 3 year extention at the 13/14 mil a season level and at the end of that contract let him go to the AL and DH part of the time. Who knows by then maybe the senior circuit has the DH in place.
As far as Bourn goes it may be interesting to see how this plays out since no matter what the Braves want to do Scott Borus is not going to let his client sign an extention at this point in the season. With Victorino a free agent at the end of the year Borus probably feels the Phillies will be go for him and if he can find another team to be interested he might be able to then jack his price up some more.
Now is the time for the Braves to offer contract extentions to Freddie Freeman and Jason Heyward and avoid the whole arbitration years like they did with Brian McCann and tried to with Jeff Francoeur.
southgabrave
May 16th, 2012
8:08 am
Bourne- 4yrs 50 mil and 5yr team option @ 9.5 mil with incentives of up to 4.5 mil. McCann 4yrs @ 65mil ( 1st yr 15 mil 2nd yr 16mil 3rd yr 17 4th yr 17mil) mutual option for 5th year @ 13.5mil with incentives up to 4.5mil.
The last year of each contract would offer a raise to each player if they are still performing t a hig level. There could be many incenitives in each contract so the last year could excalate depending on performance in the contract year. In Mac’s case he would be tradeable for a dh position if he could no longer catch in 5 years.
There are many complex issues in this type contract but I think something along these lines could be worked out. Front load the contract and load the backside with incentives. That way they could either be traded on keep and paid based on performance at the backside of the contract. The lower base at the backside makes the easier to trade.
Work something out for these two players!
DawgDad
May 16th, 2012
8:13 am
” If the Braves decide a popular player in his prime such as McCann is too expensive, even with Chipper Jones coming off the books, cars may be torched.”
By whom? I don’t think Braves fans want to see the team hamstrung with burdensome contracts. If the Braves wind up in a highest-bidder war they need to sit on their pocketbook and not commit too much money over too long a period. The length of the contract may be more important than the dollars per year.
In many respects Bourn would be a better investment than McCann. He’s proving himself to be a catalyst in the Lou Brock mold, he won’t block any up-and-coming stars, and he’s not near as big a risk of breaking down. McCann’s biggest issue in remaining a Brave is his inability to play other positions; he may be worth more money and years to an AL team and if he is, so be it. That said, I give the Braves about a 0% chance of signing Bourn. It doesn’t have to be one or the other, but do you want the Braves to commit a third of their payroll for the next six years to these two players?
Winston
May 16th, 2012
8:20 am
Ross sounds like Mac’s agent. Could it be that he’s happy playing every 5th day for $1.5 million? Not a bad gig if you can get it.
bob
May 16th, 2012
8:25 am
The Braves need new owners who will spend money and sign and keep Prado, McCann, and expecially Bourne. If they don’t sign Bourne they will be making the same mistake as when they let Raffy go and we haven’t had a decent lead-off guy since. Keep Bourne. He’s worth whatever!!!
Steve
May 16th, 2012
8:26 am
I know the Braves like what they have coming up for the future but they are still a few years away. Teams would be licking their chops to pay McCann what he wants. I will say this though what kind of numbers could Ross put up if he was made the everyday catcher?
GX
May 16th, 2012
8:46 am
I’m assuming the bit about not even drinking a Red Bull is a recent trend. Didn’t McCann say his vision problems from a while back were related to drinking energy drinks all the time?
sldkfjslk
May 16th, 2012
8:48 am
Trade him for an outfielder. He doesn’t have that many good years left in him. If he turns it around this year he will be at peak value. Braves fans get too emotional and want to hang on to their players too long. Get some value back from him now. Use Ross and develop Bethancourt. It’s about winning games not coddling fan favorites.
boog
May 16th, 2012
8:51 am
Mac is good but 15 mil per yr. like Molina…no way. Bourn is a must sign. If we get Mac for 10-12 for 3 or 4 yrs. then ok… anything over that is just dumb.
Conspiracy Theory
May 16th, 2012
9:00 am
I think we accept both Bmac and Huddy’s options for 2013 (BMAC, $12M, Huddy, $9M, and there are buy-outs of $1M and $500K if we do not accept the team options). Those seem to be no-brainers. Chipper and Lowe come off the books, and free agents Bourn, Ross, Hinske, Diaz, Wilson, Hernandez, and Durbin are possibly gone, if the Braves do not re-sign them. That frees up about $38M. BUT we will have a number of arbitration raises: Prado, Jurrjens, and O’Flaherty are all arb-3. Venters, Hanson, Medlin, Beachy, and Heyward are all arb-1. My guess is that raises for all these arb-eligible guys will eat about $15M. So that leaves about $23M in 2013 to either re-sign our FA’s or sign new FA’s. It will be interesting to see how the Jurrjens situation plays out, he is making $5.5M in 2012, if he does not turn it around he could be released in 2013.
But re-signing Bourn for 2013 is going to take a mountain of money, my guess is $120M, 7 years. I doubt the Braves go that high. And signing BMac for 2014 and beyond is also likely to take something like 7 years, $135M. I doubt the current managemtn takes that. An AL team, where he can DH occasionally, looks more likely.
go chipper go
May 16th, 2012
9:04 am
do whatever it takes to keep McCann …… do whatever it takes to get rid of Heyward !
Geeze
May 16th, 2012
9:06 am
This team is clicking right now and then you go and write an article like this. Thank you for this dose of Wednesday morning depression Mr. Schultz.
Good Grief
May 16th, 2012
9:08 am
You’ll have year-round interleague play starting next season, with 15 teams in each league, it will be a necessity. With that being the case, the NL will, at some point in the very near future, adopt the DH. I hate it, it’s ruining baseball, but if the NL wants to keep up with the AL, they’ll have to do so. Knowing that, it would be worth the Braves locking McCann up long term, as he can DH once his position-playing days are over.
chc4
May 16th, 2012
9:09 am
Braves will have gotten the most productive years out of McCann by the end of next season. We just can’t give him a 5 year big $$ deal. Love the guy but can’t have him eating up $15m+ per year as his play declines.
Phil Lunney
May 16th, 2012
9:18 am
I really hope that Brian is able to stay as a Brave. I remember when Andrew left for the big money in LA and I thought that he would lose his smile, well he did. Atlanta is a great baseball stage with what is now a winning tradition. Brian McCann belongs in Atlanta , we need his smile and his enthusiasm.
I also noticed how Rafael Furcal played a significant part in the Chipper tribute in St Louis, his 2nd team since leaving the ATL. As John Smoltz said the other day on the radio, St Louis Cards organization is a lot like the Braves, but it is not the same.
Trojan
May 16th, 2012
9:47 am
Chipper sacrificed money to play his entire career for the Braves. McCann does not sound like he will do that.
Trojan
May 16th, 2012
9:48 am
McCann is great but the Braves would be paying a premium for a diminishing return.
tony
May 16th, 2012
10:29 am
Bourn and McCann should be the braves top priority this off season. They are my favorite players.
Therut
May 16th, 2012
10:32 am
While I like him as a person, I believe that McCann is the one player holding the braves back. Everytime he comes to the plate there are men on base. Just hitting average last year he should have had 115 rbi’s. Let him go please!
Joe
May 16th, 2012
10:51 am
Have to make Bourn the priority – he makes the offense go. I’d be ok with letting Brian go. I certainly wouldn’t sign him to anything beyond 4 years.
Largo
May 16th, 2012
11:04 am
McCann is a Lummox. Nice guy but still a lummox.
P Rose
May 16th, 2012
11:04 am
Payroll gets an additional $25 million next season as Chipper’s and Lowe’s contracts come off the books. Sign B-Mac and Bourn.
wreckbuzz
May 16th, 2012
11:20 am
Three reasons this whole idea that McCann would walk is stupid:
1) He wants to be here, is from here and it’s a good team.
2) The Braves payroll will be way more flexible in 2013 and beyond, EVEN IF THEY RESIGN BOURN.
3) It’s worth the risk. The fans here will be forgiving of the Braves and Frank Wren if McCann’s production falls off in the last years of the deal because they love him and want him back.
Payroll flexibility: You have around $29m coming off the books for 2013 with the retirement of Chipper ($13m) and contract ending of Derek Lowe ($10m) and Jair Jurrjens ($5.5m) who most likely will be somewhere else (maybe as soon as this season). They could have as much as $38m come off if they decide not to exercise the option of Tim Hudson and go with Julio Teheran in the rotation. So the Braves have room to sign Michael Bourn to a $15m 5yr deal AND extend McCann to a similar value deal. By the time the Braves have to start paying Heyward and Freeman in FA years, the contract of Dan Uggla will be coming off and Hudson will be off as well. That’s $22m at that point which would allow Heyward and Freeman to fit in with a Brian McCann early years like contract.
Besides all that (which should be enough to convince people), the likelyhood of Liberty Media being the owners of the Braves in 2014 is low in my opinion. They’ve reached their obligated time frame to keep ownership as agreed to with MLB in the sale from Time Warner. With the mega deal reached for the Dodgers, Liberty will try to make a profit and flip the Braves.
furmanuga
May 16th, 2012
11:24 am
He’s the hardest working man on the field and he produces at the plate. Oh yeah, he’s also a local and extremely likable fellla. Pay him what he’s worth!
JoeFan
May 16th, 2012
11:35 am
Believe it all comes down to whether the Braves believe Bethancourt can replace McCann. Seriously tying up huge sums of cash in a player whose skills maybe eroding doesn’t make sense when you need to fill potential holes in cf, lf and 3b especially if Bethancourt or even Gattis may be the answer behind the plate. To bad the Braves can’t utilize MCann as a DH. Regretfully as he ages McCann apperas to be more suitable for an AL team.
Alphare
May 16th, 2012
11:52 am
$15 mill a year is too much for anybody as a salary. Nobody working in a team environment is worth 15 mill a year. Not a CEO, not a baseball player.
Marco Pillow
May 16th, 2012
12:03 pm
McCann’s not worth 12 million a year. No human is.
Marco Pillow
May 16th, 2012
12:07 pm
They play baseball for 162 days which equals 5 1/2 months. 12 million for 6 months playing baseball,a game.
Bill M.
May 16th, 2012
12:20 pm
Look for the Braves to try and sign both McCann & Bourn. If they fail, McCann will be traded this winter. You are playing with fire when offering long term deals to players 30 & over. Look at the money they lost on Lowe. If it comes to one signing, I think it will be Bourn. We may not even know this team next season. It will be an exciting off season but now they are in a position to go far if they don’ t tank it toward end of season.
59bulldawg
May 16th, 2012
12:21 pm
What we need is a new owner who’s willing to spend as needed instead of using the Braves as a tax shelter. I want Mac and Bourn to both stay in Atlanta. This team is on the verge of another multi-year run of great seasons.
what of it?
May 16th, 2012
12:56 pm
I don’t think it’s worth breaking the bank for McCann. Catchers wear out faster than other position players, and it has been stated his defense isn’t outstanding which is much more important for that position. He’s a good hitter, but I wasn’t impressed with his disappearing act last season, and the way the rest of the lineup is hitting, he has plenty of protection around him in the lineup.
Molina also won a world series last year and is batting .301.
59bulldawg
May 16th, 2012
1:07 pm
Marco I agree! But it’s not what you’re worth . . . it’s what the market is willing to pay!
Yankees Calling
May 16th, 2012
1:16 pm
Imagine Mac in Yankee Stadium … as one would say “perfect”
Mike
May 16th, 2012
1:19 pm
yea they are going to overpay for McCann and go without a legit lead-off hitter or centerfielder…I hope they can win it all this year because the next 5years are going to bad
Brian
May 16th, 2012
1:20 pm
Remember that having an extra $10 million next year without Chipper on the books will help a lot in resigning our players. Bourn is a really good player, but I don’t think he is as valuable to the Braves as Mac is. McCann is one of our best hitters in terms of extra-base hits and driving runs in. Bourn is very good, but I’d take Mac if we can only have one.
PMC
May 16th, 2012
1:20 pm
Cars won’t be torched (we’re not that passionate), but neither will seats be filled.
Being intersting and exciting is the #1 thing any Atlanta franchise should strive to be.
PMC
May 16th, 2012
1:22 pm
Much like Chipper, if this were an American League team or the NL added the DH. It would be much more cost effective to sign Mac. He’s a fantastic hitter and a very good catcher, but if he can’t hit in the lineup every day it’s hard to pay that money for a 30+ catcher.
Maybe we should lobby for the DH.
Sean
May 16th, 2012
1:27 pm
Something that can’t be forgotten in this is the Braves have one of the best catching prospects in the league in Christian Bethancourt. Betchancourt should be ready to take that catcher spot if McCann leaves and if McCann does stay the team will have no spot for Bethancourt. The question is does the team believe that McCann will be able to catch and produce at 33 or 34. If they don’t think so, I think the better option is to spend the money elsewhere and let Bethcancourt come up and play. I know it sounds awful because Mac has produced but in the end this is a business and you have to make smart decisions as a team.
The Walrus
May 16th, 2012
1:28 pm
Let’s keep in mind: we’re not just talking about McCann in the next season or two. We’re talking about 5 or 6 years from now. Will he be as valuable to this team 5 or 6 years from now? By then he’ll be over 30, playing one of the most demanding positions in all of sports. By then think of all of the others we’ll need to consider…
Heyward
Freeman
Kimbrel
Hanson
Venteers
Minor
Beachy
DelGado ?
Teheran ?
It’s not just about signing one guy for another good year or two. Signing McCann means a long-term commitment of money that might be better used elsewhere.
And it truly pains me to say that; I love McCann.
Jeff
May 16th, 2012
2:18 pm
If McCann is not extended then someone should drop an atomic bomb on all that land the Liberty CEO is collecting. He spends his money trying to own more land than Ted Turner when he should be trying to out do what Ted used to do for the Braves when it came time to pony up the big bucks.
asdf
May 16th, 2012
2:41 pm
Wow, can’t beleive all the people on here saying that McCann is on the way down. Absolutely no evidence, just speculation. And while Bourne is excellent, you better beleive that he won’t play out a full contract; I guarantee he won’t be here 4 years from now no matter how the contract is termed. And I like the idea of Heyward, but the guy has just been a dissapointment to this point.
fan of the game
May 16th, 2012
2:45 pm
@ 1 eyed jack
please dont ever compare another catcher to johnny bench, but i sure do like mac hes a player and we need players.
someone in the front office needs to gather the kids that we have and sit them all down include terd and a few other top notch prospects close the door and explain to them that they can become the braves of yesteryear they have a real chance to do some special things in this game i.e. win multiple championships and win the love and adoration of millions of fans not just in the atlanta area but all over the united states.
with all the talent we have especially on the mound and the players we have added bourn uggs the future is real bright in atlanta if the organization makes the right moves.
jmho
go braves
Braves FANS Do NOT/HAVE NEVER "torched cars"!!!!
May 16th, 2012
2:54 pm
aJeff Schultz… SHAME on you!!!… Are you trying to get Braves Fans to “TORCH cars”??? We have NEVER done that!!!
DetroitBraves
May 16th, 2012
3:05 pm
It’s about dollars and years, but everyone knows that. Catchers don’t generally age well into their 30s. We can probably all name some exceptions but that’s generally true. I don’t envy the Braves position. His contributions would be sorely missed given how difficult it is to find an offensive catcher, but better that than to sign him to a long-term deal only to have him decline precipitously at a significant proprotion of the budget. Personally, I would probably take what the club might consider to be a realistic shot but if the initial offer is well below what he and his agent are thinking in terms of dollars or years I think I would quickly let it go. Last I heard, Bethancourt’s glove (and arm) should play so well in the majors the Braves shouldn’t feel cornered into extending McCann.
JBD
May 16th, 2012
3:22 pm
I love McCann but the Braves can’t afford to pay him. He is the best offensive catcher in MLB but you have to remember it is at catcher. McCann usually bats fourth or fifth in our lineup and he has never had a 100 rbi season with his last 2 being in the 70’s. It is too demanding of a position to pour money into because the Braves can easily get a starter to have 65 rbis for a lot less. While the Braves heart loves McCann the brain has to realize that his best seasons are behind him and he will not remain productive at an elite level for the number of years the market will bear for him. They should utilize the option to get 1 more year out his prime and try to resign Bourn with the money freed up from lowe. Then use chippers money and try to get David Wright or a power hitting left fielder to replace chippers production.
Nativebird
May 16th, 2012
3:45 pm
And who is going to replace chipper…francisco? Are you kidding me? No…..that money will have to be invested in another big time player. There are no “savings” when chipper retires….they need a replacement, if not at third…elsewhere. Face it…Liberty Media has to come up with some more payroll..or this franchise will continue to languish. A turnstile minor league player machine producing good cheap young 3 year players for other clubs with payroll.
Aardvark Base
May 16th, 2012
3:54 pm
Here’s the bottom line, Jeff. The NL needs to adopt the Designated Hitter rule. With this season’s loss of Pujols and Fielder, it is now very evident. McCann will be MUCH more valuable to the Braves as a DH in years 4-5-6 of a contract. Otherwise, I think you have to let him go to a team that is willing to pay him much more to be a part-time Catcher, part-time DH. And therefore play 155 games instead of 130.
AlanFalcon
May 16th, 2012
4:00 pm
If B-Mac is not resigned by the Braves I’ll past on them completely and take as many fans as I can
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tana
May 16th, 2012
4:13 pm
The issue isn’t if McCann is a hometown hero or not, but his age. Are you willing to give a long term contract to a position that is not an everyday position for a 30+ year old. His defense is no Rossesk defense, so it will only decline. His hitting is no Hall of Fame hitting, it will decline. If you want to keep the core, someone is the odd ball out. To keep the Freemans, Heywards, Prados, Hansons, and Kimbrels, we have to cut ties with the position where we actually have young prospects.
I love McCann but business is business and I garuntee if he DHes in the AL his career will be extended 3 or more years than if he keeps catching here in Atlanta. He isn’t the heart of our line up, he isn’t the spark. He is simply a solid player who has shined during bad seasons with the Braves. Mind you all we have only been to the playoffs twice in his career, and the first he didn’t even start more games than Estrada. So in theory is he even “that key piece”?
I’d much rather spend the money on Bourn sparking it up in the leadoff role than McCann hitting into shifts 75% of the time.
urban redneck
May 16th, 2012
4:17 pm
pay bourn instead of b-mac
Skeezix
May 16th, 2012
4:55 pm
I love Brian and would hate to see him leave. I would love for him to be a Brave for his entire career. But last year I asked the question (of Dave or Mark or Jeff, don’t remember who) – Can Freeman play another position (I never got an answer)? If he can, it is simple, move Freddie and put Brian at first. If Freeman can’t move, then the Braves have to trade Brian. Soon, Brian’s body won’t be able to take the strain of being a starting catcher and he will probably be better off, and extend his career, as a DH/back up catcher in the AL.
Skeezix
May 16th, 2012
5:00 pm
……….and of all things, Derek Lowe is 6 and 1.
Go figure.
Marvin Mangrum
May 16th, 2012
5:47 pm
Regardless of what the Braves give him, if he doesnt hit 30 homers, drive in 100 runs or hit for more than 250, he aint worth a mil, much less $12 mil, much less whatever they are asking, and for you to say, ” and the bad taste in the mouth after Maddux, Glavine and Smoltz deals”, look here after you been paid to do ALL THAT, you aint paid again for doing all that, you are paid for doing all that AGAIN. Those guys, Aaron, Murphy, etc, etc, etc and all that, they werent worth it, thats why they were let go. And Mac aint hitting, he aint throwing out runners and at least he quit hitting 4th. And one more thang, hes making $11 mil this year, Id take a tenth of that and run screaming, so you know, you need to get real. MaCann aint worth $100k right now, and you say just give him a raise we suckers will pay it. I aint been, this will be the 3rd year, and my first game was Koufax in 66. And it aint worth it.
Don’t re-sign McCann
May 16th, 2012
9:29 pm
Don’t re-sign McCann… He is clearly trending down stat wise and his defense will suck in another few years… Sign Bourne to a long term deal.
flagboy?
May 16th, 2012
9:31 pm
. . “at worse” or “at worst”?
pretty sure it’s the latter.
Can McCann
May 16th, 2012
9:32 pm
McCann’s defense is below average. His hitting becoming mediocre for his position. I wouldn’t even pick up his option for next year. Trade him now while you can get something.
mace224
May 16th, 2012
10:18 pm
Let’s see. Francisco to replace Jones, Bethancourt replaces McCann. This is depressing.
The truth is...
May 16th, 2012
11:38 pm
McCann has never hit over 24 home runs or had 94 RBI’s in his career, and he hasn’t hit over 300. in 5 years. He’s an overrated hometown hero. Sorry guys but it’s true.
Morning Reads for Thursday, May 17th — Peach Pundit
May 17th, 2012
5:35 am
[...] A few that I like… – Marlins: 8, Braves: 4 – A minor league homerun derby will be held on the USS Yorktown. – Here are 16 misperceptions about China. – A teaser poster for the new Anchorman flick was released this week. – Peter Suderman reviews The Dictator. – Times have been announced for the Chick-fil-a kickoff games. – Here are five great shows for a recession. – Will the Braves re-sign Brian McCann? [...]
Chris
May 17th, 2012
7:31 am
“McCann is the heir apparent to Chipper as the heart and soul of this team. The Braves should reward him the way the Cards did Molina.”
Dawg left out an important point: Molina is a leader, effective field general, great defensively, and helps makes average pitching staffs better. McCann is none of these. He is a hitter and that’s about it. Don’t overpay for this guy.
Grayson Scott
May 17th, 2012
12:03 pm
As a lifelong NL fan, this really hurts to say, but NL teams are at a competitive disadvantage in situations like this because of the AL’s DH rule. NL teams are reticent to give market value contracts for the same number of years to certain players, i.e. Pujols, Fielder, McCann?, etc., because AL teams figure if they lose it defensively they still can hit in the DH position at the tail end of the contract.
Who knows besides McCann and his inner circle how much money will play a part in this process, but I if he’s offered 5 years and $100 million by the Braves and 10 years and $200 million by an AL team, I’d be shocked more that Ted Bundy was in the electric chair if he signed with the hometown team.
Larvell Blanks
May 17th, 2012
12:14 pm
There were fan backlashes after the way the Braves handled the exits of John Smoltz and Tom Glavine.
That may be true, but as I recall, most of the backlash was about how pissily the players handled their exit, with Glavine complaining about being mistreated (after being paid a million dollars to try to make the team) and Smoltz basically whining about everything. If the Braves don’t end up re-signing McCann, I think McCann will handle it in a much classier way (and will be well-paid by someone else).
Larvell Blanks
May 17th, 2012
12:22 pm
if he doesnt hit 30 homers, drive in 100 runs or hit for more than 250, he aint worth a mil
Yes, 30 homer, 100 RBI catchers you can get for a million grow on trees. Here, I think I have one in my pocket …
Chris
May 17th, 2012
2:05 pm
Larvell Blanks: “Glavine complaining about being mistreated (after being paid a million dollars to try to make the team) and Smoltz basically whining about everything
Wow, somebody is paying attention. It’s a 2-way street folks and both of these guys whined and left for more money….that;s all that mattered to them. Later, Glavine whined on the radio about the Braves not re-upping with Smoltz as if they owed him more from past performance. What a joke!
ATL Braves’s fans get caught up in this ‘he might not be worth 15m/yr, but we love hime, so they should sign him. This lame brained perspective on throwing money around and not focusing on championship makes me sick.
Back on point: Don’t overpay for an average catcher defensively…don’t get caught up in this ‘he’s a great hitter junk’. We need leaders.
Chris
May 17th, 2012
3:56 pm
At worse, Ross said, McCann is “average” on defense.
Actually, this quote is funny. I’m sure it looks worse in print than just a verbal comment……but Ross is right and you don’t want average at the catcher position……..
Morning Reads for Thursday, May 17th
May 17th, 2012
4:19 pm
[...] for the Chick-fil-a kickoff games. – Here are five great shows for a recession. – Will the Braves re-sign Brian McCann? Article source: [...]
HOF 10
May 18th, 2012
10:26 am
Give Mac the 5 years, $75 mil. In this baseball market, he certainly has earned it and will continue to earn it the full 5 years.
Bill
May 18th, 2012
4:22 pm
If Brian goes, so will a good number of the Brave’s fan base. I hope those executives with any guts will see McCann as a long range investment and sign him for multiple years. If not, they certainly have lost me as a loyal fan
1991 braves
May 19th, 2012
1:21 pm
Average catcher defensively is being kind. The guy is too slow to get over and block any ball that isn’t over the plate, and he is terrible when it comes to throwing runners out. His accuracy to 2nd base is awful. For all the hits he has, and even those have fallen off drastically, he offsets them by allowing runners to steal 2nd base easily and get in scoring position, not to mention he normally has 2 or 3 passed balls at critical points in games. And he hasn’t fielded a throw from the outfield cleanly in 2 years. My God this guy couldn’t catch a one hop throw from the outfield and tag a runner if he life depending on it. So you can have his declining batting average, and average offensive stats, but his terrible below average defense is too big of a liability to shell out $15 million over 5 years. Wren had already strapped the braves the past 3 or 4 years with his long term deals to Lowe, Hudson, and Chipper, hope he has learned his lesson. But i seriously doubt it
Sam
May 20th, 2012
10:55 am
I have been a Braves fan since the early 80’s. I have been through a lot with this team. Most notable to me, Brett Butler, Bob Horner, Dale Murphy, 1991 season, Ron Gant, 1995 championship-the same year I graduated high school, Millwood leaving cause of payroll, Wainwright for J.D. Drew, the AAA All-Star team we gave up for TEX, leaving Franceour in RF when Rafael Belliard had a better OPS in his twilight. Thank you Chipper Jones for being a loyal Braves player. If the Braves don’t keep Brian McCann, this could be the end of franchise-fan relationship we have. If he is pushed out the door because of payroll circumstances, I will officially become a fan of any MLB team except the Braves or Yankees. I do think McCann should be willing to compromise as Chipper did with his salary so we can continue to field a competitive team. McCann should look around and see the appreciation Chipper is getting from fans across the country. Some things are more valuable than an extra million or two on their salary. No doubt about it though, after 30 loyal years, I will be out the door myself if McCann gets the shaft.
Delgado Stinks
May 20th, 2012
2:43 pm
Delgado Stinks…. Minor stinks… where are all the outstanding Brave pitchers we are supposed to have……Fire Roger McDowell and Fire Fredi Gonzalez.
Revdawg
May 20th, 2012
7:58 pm
Brian McCann is great for the Atlanta Braves. His accomplishments speak for itself and he gives this game everything he has all of the time. I’m sure he will be the next player after Chipper to have his number retired. Good luck to you Brian! You are a great player!
Vesaversa
May 21st, 2012
9:48 am
I would be very disappointing and outrage if the Braves doesn’t retain Brian McCann . With Chipper retiring next year the Braves will need his bat and McCain leadership .
Vesaversa
May 21st, 2012
9:50 am
Delgado Stinks…. Minor stinks… where are all the outstanding Brave pitchers we are supposed to have……Fire Roger McDowell and Fire Fredi Gonzalez.
Dame chicken little the sky is not falling the Braves are playing great baseball.
judith scott
May 21st, 2012
11:28 am
I always liked Brian Mccann I know he has losr some of his hitting power. seemed to happen whe he was having all the eye problems. But lets face it hyes a damn good catcher. I know he must fell like braves r his home. Just hope braves realize it to. Hope u stay Brian.
ab initio
May 24th, 2012
1:08 pm
Lately, Mac hasn’t been the same player. He’s always had a weak arm throwing out base stealers; his defensive skills are not very good; he doesn’t block the plate properly on a throw to home; and his bat has steadily declined.
Sign him for a short-term contract for his status isn’t worth Posey or Molina numbers. The national league now has catchers that will pass Mac by every year.