Braves win again, now hope fallback plan can carry them
Mike Minor pitched his fourth consecutive strong outing for Braves, giving rotation hope. (AP photo)
(Updated: 9:35 p.m.)
When this season started, Ben Sheets was a youth-league coach in Louisiana and Kris Medlen had pitched 2 1/3 innings in 20 months, the byproduct of Tommy John surgery. They now comprise 40 percent of the Braves’ starting rotation.
So much for the blueprint.
The Braves made official Saturday what can best be described as the backup plan: Medlen, who has been impressive out of the bullpen, will return to the starting rotation Tuesday against Houston barring an unlikely turn of events (completing a trade for a starter). Medlen joins Sheets, who hadn’t pitched a game in two years before signing with the Braves and immediately becoming subject matter for a power point at the next AMA convention.
This is the rotation that likely will guide the Braves down the stretch. It’s not quite what anybody envisioned in the spring and may not be the ideal five to get the Braves back to a postseason. But then the St. Louis Cardinals already set the standard for baseball improbabilities last October.
Kris Medlen showed up in spring training, hoping to get another shot at starting. (Jason Getz/AJC)
Sometimes Plan B’s work out. But this one needs to unfold like a parlay in a Las Vegas sportsbook.
The team’s postseason chances hinge on: 1) Tim Hudson’s ability to stay healthy; 2) Sheets continuing to defy medical logic (one earned run in 18 innings after major surgery and semi-retirement); 3) Tommy Hanson fixing some of his issues; 4) Mike Minor staying consistent after some early hiccups; 5) Medlen pitching as well in a starting role as he did coming out of the bullpen.
We’ll start with Minor, only because he just gave another performance worthy of Frank Wren screaming, “Hah! Told you we didn’t need Zach Greinke!”
After so many early-season issues, Minor is on a roll now. He allowed Philadelphia just one run on four hits in eight innings and struck out nine at Turner Field on Saturday night, leading a 2-1 victory. In his past four starts, Minor has yielded just seven runs in 27 1/3 innings.
In the past five games (four wins), Braves starters Minor (twice), Hudson, Hanson and Sheets have allowed eight earned runs in 33 innings.
That will get it done. But does asterisks by all five starters in the rotation cause some discomfort?
(The depth chart at the start of the season was Hudson-Hanson-Jair Jurrjens-Minor-Brandon Beachy, although Hudson’s back surgery forced him to miss the start of the season.)
Medlen deserved this shot, and he believes the comeback from surgery and the uncertainty of his role all season has made him mentally tougher. Physically, he said, “I feel great. I really feel like my secondary pitches are coming back. I guess it’ll be two years [since the surgery] in August. For the first month or two I felt like I was pitching with just fastball.”
Despite failing to land Greinke and having a deal for Ryan Dempster blocked, the Braves say they’re still trying to make a trade. When asked before Saturday’s game whether Sheets’ improbable ascent makes the team feel any less desperate to acquire a pitcher, manager Fredi Gonzalez said, “No, no, no. We’re looking to upgrade.”
But the reality is there’s probably nothing left on the market that would upgrade the Braves’ pitching. Greinke went to the Angels. Dempster prefers the Dodgers. (He hasn’t been moved yet, but the chances of a 180 seem remote.)
There are two other potential game-changers on the market: Miami’s Josh Johnson and Tampa Bay’s James Shields. But both have time left on their contracts after this season, so it follows the Marlins and Rays don’t feel desperate, and their trade respective requests are inflated.
There are other pitchers available. But all are depth guys – no better than what the Braves already have. So it’s probably not worth it for them to make a move.
From this point on, the Braves will rely on a rotation of 2s, 3s and 4s, their bullpen and what generally has been strong hitting (Dan Uggla’s .209 batting average notwithstanding).
Could this work? The Braves have won four straight, starting the night four games back of Washington in the National League East. Consistency has been an issue all season, particularly in starting pitching.
We’ll know soon enough if this is an aberration.
By Jeff Schultz
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277 comments Add your comment
bama dawg
July 28th, 2012
6:23 pm
ok all you arm chair general managers have at it.
Josh Hutchings
July 28th, 2012
6:23 pm
The Braves rotation is not going to get them deep into the playoffs or into the playoffs for that matter. They need to go bite the bullet and get Josh Johnson or James Shields. Moving Medlen to the starting rotation now weakens the bullpen. Another early playoff exit as usual.
Scrappy
July 28th, 2012
6:25 pm
Why do I hear Hillary saying “Hope is not a strategy?”
nolakid21
July 28th, 2012
6:27 pm
Sir you are a horrible sports writer. You have no integrity and when you trolled Jonathan Vilma over the summer it showed how pitiful you are. If you could get some class and insight on the Braves then I wouldn’t care.
moboman
July 28th, 2012
6:27 pm
No dumb rent a player trades. If a guy doesn’t want to be HERE long term, we don’t need him. Tex and Drew have taught us that.
V Deuce
July 28th, 2012
6:29 pm
Dempster was nothing more than a “depth guy”. I will be absolutely ELATED if he stays in Chicago or goes ANYWHERE ELSE other than Atlanta. Wren can still go after Grienke in the offseason.
nolakid21
July 28th, 2012
6:32 pm
Ya we can still go after him in the off season and do you not realize how expensive pitching is right now Mr. Schultz? Of course you don’t.
Dawgdad (The Original)
July 28th, 2012
6:32 pm
And the beat goes on!
Why wasn’t Medlen put in the rotation after the All Star game. I do not think the Braves are real strong in player evaluation skills.
V Deuce
July 28th, 2012
6:38 pm
They stalled on starting Medlen because Venters got “hurt”. But they can try Delgado from the bullpen. They can look at Jurrjens from the bullpen. If they make the playoffs, Sheets or Minor could be able to pitch from the bullpen as well.
The Grinch
July 28th, 2012
6:38 pm
Giving up a bevy of young talent for a handful of starts from a guy who has to take abilify to pitch outside Milwaukee would have been asinine. Plus I’m not convinced we COULD assemble enough talent to overcome our manager’s ineptitude and lack of guidance. Sorry, Chipper, but Wren did the right thing. As long as we’re owned by LM and “managed” by Howdy Doody (who I fully expect to be replaced in the offseason…Wren can only afford to make so many concessions to JS), we’ve got to develop our own talent and make shrewd rather than knee-jerk moves in the mean time.
Skeptic Scott
July 28th, 2012
6:39 pm
If we have such great pitching depth in our farm system that other teams crave so badly, are you telling me that NONE of them, not a single one, can come up and help us a viable # 5 yet ?
V Deuce
July 28th, 2012
6:40 pm
Jonathan Vilma is one of the biggest trolls walking the face of the earth. And no I won’t elaborate now because this is a Braves blog.
Hawg
July 28th, 2012
6:40 pm
Coming this October… A cast of missfits attempts to lead the braves to the playoffs. Tommy “wild thing” Hanson who once walked seven men in a game.. And won. Ben “bionic” sheets whose arm has a whole chapter in the American medical book. Tim “redneck” Hudson who is countrier than country fried steak and our ace. Also starring Kris “baby face” medlen and mike “boy I’m glad I haven’t been sent to the” minors. Will this unlikely team of has beens and never hads end up in victory lane? only time will tell.
Falcons 62 - Saints 7
July 28th, 2012
6:41 pm
Enter your comments here
yert7687
July 28th, 2012
6:41 pm
medlen is a future ace and his ascent begins tuesday
The Nature Boy
July 28th, 2012
6:42 pm
If Hanson and Uggla start playing well…the Braves will be fine….BIG IF
Josh Hutchings
July 28th, 2012
6:46 pm
I repeat the Braves are now in the bullpen moving Jurjjens there. They won’t go deep in the playoffs and I’m changing my life long love to a team that actually cares to win. Go Angels!
needing attention
July 28th, 2012
6:46 pm
@nolakid21:
What got under your skin? Not too many would agree with you about Mr. Schultz’s talents. Not sure why you have to attack and be condescending, Schultz is still writing after all the cuts at the newspaper due to diminished circulation. That’s the way it is in the newspaper biz these days….the most insigthful and successful writers are generally the ones that we are reading nowadays.
But then again there is this issue abou the First Amendment.
needing attention
July 28th, 2012
6:46 pm
@nolakid21:
What got under your skin? Not too many would agree with you about Mr. Schultz’s talents. Not sure why you have to attack and be condescending, Schultz is still writing after all the cuts at the newspaper due to diminished circulation. That’s the way it is in the newspaper biz these days….the most insigthful and successful writers are generally the ones that we are reading nowadays.
But then again there is this issue abou the First Amendment.
Blue ridge Brave
July 28th, 2012
6:54 pm
Very excited about meds. Now we need to get two bullpin guys to get us to OVK. JJ doesnt project well as a rp but maybe it turns him around has worked with a lot of starters before.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
6:58 pm
Nolakid21 — I “trolled” Jonathan Vilma? … What are you, 12?
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
7:01 pm
V Deuce — I’d say the Dempster of much of his career was a depth guy, but not the one pitching right now.
Jhutch08
July 28th, 2012
7:01 pm
Jeff Schultz…Do you think the Braves will go hard after a bullpen arm or two since moving Meds to rotation? I like the move, but I think we now need a bullpen arm or two to replace Meds and possibly Avilan.
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2012
7:02 pm
Sure he’s a medical miracle but if you know how to pitch like Sheets, not hitting 98 on the gun is just a mere technicality.
He’s John Smoltz approved.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
7:02 pm
Yert7687 — This is great for Medlen. Not making any predictions but he certainly deserved this shot — yes, probably sooner than now.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
7:03 pm
Juan — Really? (Comment deleted)
Skeptic Scott
July 28th, 2012
7:04 pm
Isn’t Greinke known as a head case, one that none even John Smotlz’s sports psychologist would be able to help?
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
7:04 pm
Jhutch08 — If Medlen stays in rotation, picking up a middle-relief type arm is the logical move.
Jhutch08
July 28th, 2012
7:05 pm
Also, I forgot to add, but how about a bench guy (RH) since we don’t know the future of Matty Diaz? What about the future of Moylan?
Skeptic Scott
July 28th, 2012
7:06 pm
Okay, now I am dying to know what Juan said in his/her comment that was so bad…
Was it about AJC employees now boycotting the Chick-fil-A stands at Turner Field or something?
Mmmmm…..
I think I just realized what I want for dinner.
Rt
July 28th, 2012
7:07 pm
How can you keep Uggla in the lineup?Please give me 1 good reason!!!!!!!!!
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2012
7:07 pm
Wren should have his nose to the ground looking for bench help.
Around The Horn
July 28th, 2012
7:08 pm
A GOOD PLAN
I like the backup plan!
Insert both J.J. and Delgado into the bullpen, and the bullpen too would be solidified in this way.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
7:08 pm
Phillies’ lineup tonight: Catcher Eric Kratz hitting .375, Hunter Pence at .267. Everybody else is between .256 and .081. … Rollins (.281), Victorino (.256), Utley (.247), Howard (.245), Pence (.267), Wigginton (.232), Mayberry (.235), Kratz (.375), pitcher Joe Blanton (.081). …. Yikes.
Skeptic Scott
July 28th, 2012
7:09 pm
With all his bumbling as GM since taking from the legendary John Schuerholz, the only way Frank Wren could look any less intelligent and less competent were to be if he got a neck tattoo.
Rt
July 28th, 2012
7:09 pm
Put J.J. in the AA bullpen!!
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
7:10 pm
Skeptic Scott — Hah. No Chick-fil-A boycott here.
NOTHING gets between me and a Chick-fil-A breakfast biscuit.
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2012
7:12 pm
Understand Wren is scouring the Mexican League and has scouts standing on the shore of Key West looking to deal…No, not drugs…Yet.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
7:13 pm
For those asking, yes, belief is that Wren also looking for bench help, especially with Diaz out.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
7:13 pm
Minor gets Utley to bounce into easy DP.
66GT
July 28th, 2012
7:14 pm
The Braves do not have the consistent Bats to take them Deep into the playoffs regardless of who they might waste a trade on. every year they try to pull off a magic trade to make the difference. Wren needs to suck it up and give our young pitchers the ball for rest of season. They need the experience. Getting rid of Delgado for a veteran “Hunch”, please…anyone remember the Lowe Trade!? We give up too many talented rookies and I know I don’t need to say who. If you are a fan you know who we gave up! Suck it up for a year and get these guys the experience they need to come back STRONG next year. This year is over as far as possible Deep playoff hopes.
Jhutch08
July 28th, 2012
7:15 pm
Final question: Do you believe the Braves will make any trade before tuesday at 4:00 PM?
1eyedJack
July 28th, 2012
7:15 pm
Quit looking for someone to come in and “save the day” and just play baseball. If you win you win, and if you lose….you don’t win.
By the way, Schultz, do you think we could find a team who is looking to increase payroll while at the same time looking to add a guy who leads the universe in strikeouts and popups and is unimpressive in the field?
BDK
July 28th, 2012
7:17 pm
I’m glad we didn’t give away the farm for Greinke as we did with Tex. And isn’t it refreshing to not hear from all the Philly trolls boasting about how great they are?
Rt
July 28th, 2012
7:18 pm
The Braves young pitchers don’t go deep enough in the game, the Bullpen can’t and wan’t hold up!!!!
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2012
7:18 pm
Please trade for Escobar so Chipper can scratch him off the bucket list.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
7:20 pm
Jhutch08 — “Final question: Do you believe the Braves will make any trade before tuesday at 4:00 PM?”
1) I don’t believe you; 2) I predict they’ll make two low-level deals.
SOS Braves
July 28th, 2012
7:20 pm
Bourne is striking out WAY too much.
Rt
July 28th, 2012
7:21 pm
Foget the playoffs, no way this team makes the playoffs! Stay pat and it will be a another long winter!
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
7:21 pm
1 eyed Jack — I’m not sure. Let me ask Dan Uggla.
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2012
7:22 pm
Blanton’s gotta be worth 150M…
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
7:22 pm
Heyward single raises his average to .270.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
7:24 pm
Chipper sac fly scores a run, and Victorino throws it to Neptune for some reason, allows Heyward to go to second.
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2012
7:24 pm
Philly fan’s ordering take out batteries to feed their TV’s
Mike
July 28th, 2012
7:24 pm
Jeff, what do you think the Braves do with Hudson after this season? I think he has an option for 7 or 8 million but I can’t imagine they’d do that. Would a restructured two year deal for a solid pitcher post 35 be something he and the Braves could agree on?
1eyedJack
July 28th, 2012
7:25 pm
Victorino trying hard to get traded.
1eyedJack
July 28th, 2012
7:27 pm
You don’t get the call on the outside pitch like you do when you’re in first place.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
7:27 pm
McCann clubs pitch 395 feet … but to 400-foot part of ballpark.
Rick
July 28th, 2012
7:28 pm
Best move just made!
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
7:28 pm
Mike — Hudson has $9 million club option or $1 million buyout. Why wouldn’t you exercise that? Not outrageous at all.
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2012
7:34 pm
Marteen and Minor for Blanton.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
7:36 pm
Dan Uggla just swung out on a pitch that was 2 feet over his head.
jharber
July 28th, 2012
7:36 pm
Chef, Glad you are not in Wrens position
Sonny Clusters
July 28th, 2012
7:37 pm
Well, Uggla is at-bat right now and he starts out 0-2 and with the 3rd pitch . . . (mystery) (drama) (intrigue) . . . he strikes out! Well, go figure.
Jurrjens is a LOSER!!!!
July 28th, 2012
7:37 pm
I look forward to the end of the season when JJ can be DFA’ed or Non-Tendered……he is nothing but a whinney cry baby loser and adds nothing to the roster or this team.
Sonny Clusters
July 28th, 2012
7:37 pm
Jeff, do you think some elevator shoes would help?
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2012
7:38 pm
Whats with the mob sporting torches and pitchforks at my door?
Sonny Clusters
July 28th, 2012
7:38 pm
We think he had some elevator shoes on in the movie.
Fantastic
July 28th, 2012
7:38 pm
Dan Uggla??????? What are the Braves going to do about this guy? He is robbing the Braves of a lot of money and I am not sure he will break out of this slump this season!
Big Crimson 75
July 28th, 2012
7:38 pm
Damn!!!
We’d be set if Beachy didn’t get hurt.
Schultz, I agreed with your write up concerning the Braves need to forget about the Texeira trade, however, Delgado for a 2 month rental in Dempster didn’t make sense to me(apparently, Dempster feels the same way)!!
Shields or Johnson are better options, even though they’ll cost more.
jharber
July 28th, 2012
7:39 pm
I hope he takes Wren and Freddi with him
just me
July 28th, 2012
7:39 pm
Any chance we trade for Felix Hernandez? What would it cost us?
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
7:39 pm
Sonny Clusters — If not elevators shoes, maybe a bat about 3 feet in diameter. And a tee. Yeah, that’s it. A tee.
1eyedJack
July 28th, 2012
7:40 pm
Dan Uggla needs to borrow Fred Flintstone’s bat.
Stinger2
July 28th, 2012
7:42 pm
Jeff: I read all of your blogs about the Braves. This one is much better and is a good assessment of what will happen with the pitching staff. I realize you have a right to your opinion about Frank Wren. Maybe he should have made a trade to get a top of the line starter. However, he may not be done yet.
jharber
July 28th, 2012
7:43 pm
Need to send Uggla to chicago for Soriano Same money 1 year shorter contract
Fantastic
July 28th, 2012
7:43 pm
When Dan Uggla was with the Marlins I used to think man he is a guy you dont want to face! Now the guy is an automatic out!
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
7:43 pm
Just me — Not convinced Seattle is trading Hernandez, at least not now.
Sonny Clusters
July 28th, 2012
7:44 pm
Well, using a bat made from ash seems to be the thing right now on the Braves but getting Uggla to change bats won’t be easy because none of his bats get much use. Why change a perfectly good unused bat?
just me
July 28th, 2012
7:45 pm
jharber – how about Uggla and Delgado to CHC for Soriano and SP Paul Mahlom? How would you feel about that trade?
Mr. Deal
July 28th, 2012
7:45 pm
Vote NO to T-Splost !!! Do you agree Mr. Schultz ?
just me
July 28th, 2012
7:45 pm
figured since they moved Ichy…but he did request a trade
jharber
July 28th, 2012
7:46 pm
That will work
1eyedJack
July 28th, 2012
7:46 pm
Bet Uggla leads the team in unbroken bats.
BDK
July 28th, 2012
7:47 pm
Jeff, are there any relievers the Braves are interested in getting that can take Medlins place when he becomes a starter? That sounds like our best bet.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
7:47 pm
Jharber — If you’re White Sox, why would you take on a deal with 3 years/$39 million left for a deal with 2 years/$32 million left?
just me
July 28th, 2012
7:48 pm
would also like to see us trade for Darren Oliver to shore-up the bullpin. He’s old, but he’s getting the job done for toronto.
Big Crimson 75
July 28th, 2012
7:48 pm
Did Don Simpson just say Jimmy Rollins is a better Phillie than Mike Schmidt??!!
jharber
July 28th, 2012
7:48 pm
I think Mike Minor is very close to getting it together. At least I hope so.
Big Crimson 75
July 28th, 2012
7:50 pm
Beachy!!!!
jharber
July 28th, 2012
7:50 pm
Jeff, They want him gone so bad it might work. Its the Cubs
The Real GM
July 28th, 2012
7:51 pm
My cousin in Minnesota says there are reports that Braves are n serous talkes for Fransico Liriano – Any truth Schultz??
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
7:53 pm
That Heyward play scored a hit — he’s 2-for-2.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
7:55 pm
The Real GM — The Liriano rumor has been around for several days — and methinks it’s a bad one.
just me
July 28th, 2012
7:55 pm
do we really want Liriano? his ERA is over 5 and he gave up 7 runs against CWS in 2.2 innings his last outing.
Sonny Clusters
July 28th, 2012
7:57 pm
Our cousin is a scout in Texas and he says always be prepared. We would like to think that Dan Uggla is doing some work away from the ballpark to get himself going again. Jeff said last year that Uggla is a notorious slow starter and he tends to be streaky. We was wondering what would happen if the streak keeps going on like this?
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
7:58 pm
Sonny Clusters — If this streak keeps going for Uggla, he obliterates the memory of Kenshin Kawakami. … OK, may be not.
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2012
7:59 pm
Chipper is butter.
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2012
8:01 pm
Is it possible we see Uggla strike out on an intentional walk?
Sonny Clusters
July 28th, 2012
8:01 pm
Uggla is Dan Kolb-ish. But Kolb didn’t play every day.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
8:02 pm
Utley crushes a 1-2 pitch. Mistake pitch. … It’s 2-1 … (Braves fan threw the ball pack.)
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2012
8:02 pm
Type of thing that has made Minor loose his mind.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
8:04 pm
Minor now has allowed team-high 22 homers. He’s followed by Hanson (19), then Jurrjens/Durbin (8 each).
FSUBrave
July 28th, 2012
8:05 pm
wren is a bozo…what about the other 3 starters that stink, and sheets is no guarantee with half an elbow?
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2012
8:05 pm
Can remember when Howard use to make pitchers crap themselves
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
8:07 pm
“Chef” Tim Dix — Yep.
FSUBrave
July 28th, 2012
8:07 pm
braves won’t make the postseason without a move..they simply cannot match washington’s starting staff…and they know it
jharber
July 28th, 2012
8:09 pm
I will take sheets with the risk above some pitchers on the market at high price. Can you see how he has helped Minor?
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2012
8:11 pm
CONTACT!
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
8:12 pm
Uggla now 0-for-2, hitting .210. Anybody want to start a sub-.200 pool?
Sonny Clusters
July 28th, 2012
8:14 pm
Uggla is at bat again. Maybe he should try some lucky underpants like Francoeur used to turn to when he would go into a slump. We’ll always be in debt to Jeff for writing about that and helping us understand how things like that work.
Fantastic
July 28th, 2012
8:15 pm
So Medlin is going to start Tuesday. Really that means that a trade wont be made for a starter because it wont make any sense, but I still say that they need to get a starter and someone to replace Uggla. The bullpen has to depend on Venters, Durbin, O Fl, Martinez, JJ and Kembriel. I am not sure I am comfortable witht that, but what the hell do I know?
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2012
8:15 pm
It will happen Tuesday, Meds gets the win, Uggs crosses over into the abyss.
Sonny Clusters
July 28th, 2012
8:17 pm
Tuesday against the Marlins.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
8:17 pm
Fantastic — They told Medlin his start hinges on whether another guy acquired, but, yeah, that’s doubtful.
Busch Leaguer
July 28th, 2012
8:18 pm
How about a Uggla pool Strike out total ,higher than batting average at the end of the season.
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2012
8:18 pm
Well Jeff, we are all day to day.
jharber
July 28th, 2012
8:18 pm
Wish we could get between innings shot inside the dugout. Sheets may not be pitching but very much in the game.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
8:20 pm
Other than the homer, Minor with a strong outing: 1 runs, 4 hits in 5 innings. 6 strikeouts, 0 walks.
SOS Braves
July 28th, 2012
8:26 pm
And Bourne strikes out AGAIN. Way too much for a leadoff hitter.
ER Steve
July 28th, 2012
8:27 pm
Joe mentioned that they delayed Medlen moving to the rotation because of a limited innings cap for the year. Kind of like a reverse Strasburg situation. Had you heard about that before Jeff?
Homer
July 28th, 2012
8:27 pm
I think we should trade for new Fans and send the old ones to AA.
Breaking News
July 28th, 2012
8:27 pm
Surprise Braves fans! You won’t believe this! Dan Uggla is 0 for 2!
Dick's Dungeon
July 28th, 2012
8:29 pm
Jeff. Do the Braves have any options with Uggla? Also, Why is Hanson so highly regarded by the Braves with his high number of home run pitches and his abysmal ability to avoid stolen bases?
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
8:30 pm
SOS Braves — That was his 100th strikeout of season (2 tonight). … Only one Brave ahead of him. Anybody want to guess?
Felix
July 28th, 2012
8:31 pm
Minor is pitching great tonight.
Dempster who?
jharber
July 28th, 2012
8:32 pm
Frenchy
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2012
8:32 pm
prado.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
8:32 pm
Dick’s Dungeon — Biggest concern about Hanson I think is his delivery and the potential ripple effect of that (injuries).
ER Steve
July 28th, 2012
8:32 pm
Bourn does lead the league in runs scored, and plays gold glove caliber center field. What more could you ask for in a lead off hitter?
SOS Braves
July 28th, 2012
8:33 pm
Jeff. Struggla. At least Bourne gets a hit 3 out of 10 times up. Even if the 7 outs are mostly strikeouts.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
8:34 pm
Yep: Uggla with 114 Ks (as we speak).
Sonny Clusters
July 28th, 2012
8:35 pm
Jeff, do you think if Chipper approached him about becoming a Buck Commander it might help Uggla become a more productive hitter?
Felix
July 28th, 2012
8:35 pm
Hanson has over 100 SOs.
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2012
8:35 pm
Braves will make a major run at Bourn and they should. Him and Prado give a great 1-2 punch.
SOS Braves
July 28th, 2012
8:37 pm
Minor has been a pleasant surprise after an awful start of the season.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
8:38 pm
“Chef” Tim Dix. ..My view on Bourn: He’s good but he’s not break-the-bank great. We’re just used to seeing dreadful leading hitters here, so he looks like Rickey Henderson. Also, his agent is Scott Boras. I’m not counting on Braves being able to re-sign him, but we’ll see.
SOS Braves
July 28th, 2012
8:39 pm
Simmons may be a good leadoff if Bourn goes away.
jharber
July 28th, 2012
8:40 pm
Bourne will be in washington next year
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2012
8:41 pm
The real shame Jeff is that all conversations about the Braves and players seem to include the phrase,”break the bank”.
Bourn
July 28th, 2012
8:41 pm
Jeff, I have read a lot, and also have the sinking feeling that Bourn is showcasing himself to get traded. I think we lose big time if he goes. What say you? Will LM pay the price or let another one slip away.
66GT
July 28th, 2012
8:42 pm
Agreed Jeff, Bourne is gone with Boras as Agent! FOR SURE!!
SOS Braves
July 28th, 2012
8:43 pm
Striking out a lot is not showcasing.
don
July 28th, 2012
8:44 pm
This sounds like a good plan to me. Greinke carries a lot of baggage and the Braves can’t pitch him every start in Miller Park. Dempster is a dud. Shields and Johnson would be too expensive for the limited return on investment.
ER Steve
July 28th, 2012
8:45 pm
Who plays center if Bourne leaves?
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
8:45 pm
Mike Minor has retired last 10 Phillies, allowed 1 run 4 hits in 7 innings.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
8:46 pm
Minor has thrown 88 pitches, due up 4th in inning. Would think he’d bat.
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2012
8:47 pm
I might be in the minority but when healthy this is a better than good club, even with a healthy Uggla.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
8:47 pm
Wow. What in the world has happened to Ryan Howard?
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2012
8:48 pm
Batteries, get your batteries right here!
Sonny Clusters
July 28th, 2012
8:50 pm
.209 and dropping.
BraveFan
July 28th, 2012
8:52 pm
Big inning for Minor here. 3 up 3 down.
Homer
July 28th, 2012
8:53 pm
Minor is looking Great !
jharber
July 28th, 2012
8:54 pm
Does anyone see the Sheets effect now?
VinceVanGo
July 28th, 2012
9:00 pm
With Minor improving each outing and Medlen going Tuesday the Braves starting rotation will be fine. A Hudson, Sheets, Hanson, Minor & Medlen rotation with Delgado ready to replace anyone that falters will be okay. But the Braves need Uggla to step it up or be benched, and they need a right handed hitter to platoon and pinch hit. I like Scott Harrison of the Mets and Ty Wiggington of the Phillies but I doubt our division rivals are going to help out the Braves. If the Braves could land a righty who can hit to play left field, Prado could be moved to second. I hate to hurt Uggla’s feelings but he must know that he’s hurting the team.
BraveFan
July 28th, 2012
9:01 pm
Great game Minor! Who needs an overpriced primadonna? We just beat one of those last night. Win with these guys. Get some insurance the Kimbrel time
jharber
July 28th, 2012
9:01 pm
Have to admit, I am real proud of my neighbor
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 28th, 2012
9:04 pm
Bring him back out or light the wall?
Larry30
July 28th, 2012
9:05 pm
The legendary john scherholz? Please. The biggest place he is a legend is in his own mind. He was personally responsible for one of the worst trades ever made in Atlanta braves history. The only thing legendary was his timing, stepping in as GM after bobby cox had fixed the scouting dept. for the braves and stocked the team with fine young talent. Does everyone forget that this team has only reached he playoffs once since 2005 and they wouldn’t have been in 2010 except that Troy Glaus pulled the team out of last place during the month of May as he won NL player of the month. They might make the playoffs this year now that the playoff pool gets closer to he NHL in format. And stop blaming liberty media. The rays and diamondbacks reached the playoffs last year with half the braves payroll.
Rt
July 28th, 2012
9:08 pm
The Braves need to send Uggla down! He is the worst hitter in the last 20 years!!!!!!!!
Rt
July 28th, 2012
9:10 pm
VinceVanGo, Great comment!!!!!
The GM
July 28th, 2012
9:12 pm
Rumor circulated Braves looking at starting pitcher Jeff Francis of the Colorado Rockies !!!
AthensBrave
July 28th, 2012
9:20 pm
For all of those who are down on the young pitchers [listening, Schultzy?], Minor went 8 innings tonight. Not bad, not bad at all. Delgado will develop as well–give him a little time. It makes no sense giving young pitchers up who are who are top-of-the-line talent. Medlin is a great example of sticking with the young lions.
No Flag Since Lemke
July 28th, 2012
9:21 pm
Wren is seeing a lot of mirages and chooses to believe them. Not a strategy that will get us anywhere in October.
CRM300
July 28th, 2012
9:24 pm
Braves don’t need a trade! Medlen in the starting rotation solves the starting pitching problem, especially with Minor pitching like he did tonite. Moylan is coming back to the bullpen to take Medlen’s place. Don’t mortgage the future by trading Delgado! Uggla will hit sooner or later. Team chemistry is good. Simmons back soon! Have faith, Braves fans! Best closer in baseball. Braves win!!!! First!!
TROTTINGHOME
July 28th, 2012
9:28 pm
Kinbrel messed them up…………..Go Bravo’s
Evelyn
July 28th, 2012
9:29 pm
The Braves NEED to re-sign Bourne. He holds it all together. And, yes the Braves have to give up some dough if they want to be “players.
BraveFan
July 28th, 2012
9:31 pm
Sweep the Phil’s! Braves are very hot right now
urban redneck
July 28th, 2012
9:40 pm
this armchairs GM says it’s about time we made this no-brainer move. this should have happened weeks ago. i would just like to see us trade for a good reliever and someone off the bench that can actually hit.
eight innings for minor? seems like ol boy is finally finding his grooved. is gilmartin starting tomorrow? i’d like to get a look-see.. go bravos!
barrock odrama
July 28th, 2012
9:41 pm
way too go frank use my strategy do nothing and spin away lol
Stretch
July 28th, 2012
9:41 pm
When Jack Wilson and subsequently, Andre Simmons come off the DL, the Bravos have to make a decision Janish. Thoughts? I say keep Janish and dump Wilson. Neither one of their bats speak much so that is a wash. Jani is superior defensively and does have a spark to him that excites the fans.
Jeff Schultz
July 28th, 2012
9:44 pm
Column updated folks. Thank you for your digital patronage . . .
http://blogs.ajc.com/jeff-schultz-blog/2012/07/28/live-braves-now-hoping-fallback-plan-can-carry-them/
Billy
July 28th, 2012
9:45 pm
Thanks Jeff for doing a great job..love it when someone tells it like it is.
Teddy B
July 28th, 2012
9:48 pm
I hope, and PRAY that someone has enough sense to move Christhian Martinez into Medlen’s spot! Martinez is always solid, I haven’t seen him blow up in quite a long while. Hope Freddi G does the right thing and doesn’t rely on Miguel freakin Batista to take over middle relief.
Medlen got his chance, now its on him to deliver. GG tonight Bravos, wtg Heyward! Guy is heating up again and winning us a whole bunch of games can’t say enough good stuff about him.
Billy
July 28th, 2012
9:50 pm
Joe— Tonight the only hits Bourn, prado and J-Hey.Yes Bourn k’s to much..where would we be without him. He is the spark plug of this team.
jharber
July 28th, 2012
10:00 pm
Does anyone see the Sheets effect now, conversation with Minor has helped tremendously
LIVE: Braves now hoping fallback plan can carry them – Atlanta Journal Constitution (blog)
July 28th, 2012
10:03 pm
[...] Atlanta Journal Constitution (blog) [...]
The Dude
July 28th, 2012
10:06 pm
The next time “nolakid” has a thought, hopefully he decides to go play in traffic instead. Go Braves.
wondering
July 28th, 2012
10:09 pm
why arent we looking for another big bat? dont know twins’ willingham’s contract number. but a guy that always had tons of potential and now last 2 years playing up to it. might not cost much, could move prado to second, sit uggla for rest of season, then have problem solved for next year when chipper retires. prado plays second or third and we look for the other in off-season. plus isnt he right-handed? too many lefties in lineup right now. all of our righties have zero pop. also need to find starting middle infielder in case of injuries. why wait til you have a problem to solve it? especially when other clubs are in “selling” mode.
BraveFan
July 28th, 2012
10:12 pm
Check out Philadelphia Inquirer blog. Thought there were some negative folks on this one? Living in a miserable city like Phily must cause a lot of stress and anger issues. They hate everybody.
Braves Fan 3
July 28th, 2012
10:13 pm
Medlen in the rotation might just make us sold 1-5. Hanson is the one I am worried about. Need to bring Delgado up for bullpen and send JJ to minors. Just because Uggla signed a huge contract does that mean we have to play him if he doesn’t produce. Put Constanza in left and move Prado to 2nd and we will be ok.
tdawgg37
July 28th, 2012
10:19 pm
In my opinion pitching is not the real problem this season. Yes another good arm would be great…but what about our run support? How long will the team wait for Uggla to catch fire? has he ever batted over .300 in a season? We need another bat!
Biggun
July 28th, 2012
10:24 pm
Why not trade Tommy “my arms going to fall off any minute” Hanson, the runs support beneficiary, instead of our young arms? Surely we could atleast get a serviceable 3rd- 5th starter to go with Huddy,Sheets,Minor and Medlin. With his current delivery, I dont see a huge upside in keeping him long term.
joel beach
July 28th, 2012
10:26 pm
They are moving people around to make it look like they did something fw sucks.
wondering
July 28th, 2012
10:37 pm
just checked, twins’ willingham is in the first year of a 3yr/21,000,000 contract. that means “only” 7mil a year for next 2 years. go get him frank. probably only cost 2 mid-level prospects
fan
July 28th, 2012
10:41 pm
don’t worry these primadonnas will choke their guts out down the stretch
Keith
July 28th, 2012
10:43 pm
Minor did look good.
Still think we could use another starter.
But I do like Medlen as a plan B.
Still think Wren did the right thing by NOT giving up Teheran + Delgado for Greinke. That’s what it would have required for a rental.
Remember Tex?
Go BRAVES!
Keith
July 28th, 2012
10:44 pm
Re: tdawg37
Pitching HAS been the real problem. When our starter’s ERA is like almost last in the league , and our offense is 3rd in runs…it’s the pitching, not the offense that needs a boost.
thomas smith
July 28th, 2012
11:03 pm
call ernesto mejia up to be rh hitter off bench and back up ff at first..Ernesto Antonio Mejia 21 hr,74 rbi’s,.307 ave,120 hits 29 2b…he has more hr and rbi than anybody on ml roster.give the man a chance..what about this trade. dan uggla, jair jurrens,tommy hanson to twins for josh willingham and scott diamond.
Trey
July 28th, 2012
11:14 pm
I, for one, am surprised at the way Minor has come around. I was on the side that had no confidence in him. Hopefully he can keep it up and we won’t need to go out for a new starter, especially as Medlen is finally going to start.
Trey
July 28th, 2012
11:16 pm
nolakid, please try and refrain from those asinine comments. If you don’t like his articles, then don’t read. Simple as that.
Phineas T. Philpot
July 28th, 2012
11:33 pm
One thing that may be overlooked is strength of schedule the rest of the way.
Rittmann
July 28th, 2012
11:41 pm
What a Bunch of Whiney boys you all are- Braves are FOUR games from the best record in Baseball. Yes, they need to fix a couple of things- Uggla is terrible. He is not being traded or sat on the bench ($$$) He needs to get his Mojo back- And when Simmons gets back We’ll be that much better. How can anyone Dis Chipper- Best 40 yr old ever- This team can Def win the World Series-just play well. And you idiots need to just shut up
banned poster
July 28th, 2012
11:43 pm
I like Medlen just as much as the next guy, but he is not a #1 and the Braves need a #1 or they are not winning the NL East or Wildcard. I want a World Series and this rotation is just not going to cut it. If that worthless excuse for a GM Frank Wren has given up looking for one, well then, I will make my one visit to Turner Field in late Sept to honor Chipper Jones and say good bye. Because after that, I will not be spending my money on a team that doesn’t want to put a title contending team on the field. Enough with holding onto the young pitchers for the future. The future is now.
NorCal Brave
July 29th, 2012
12:03 am
ML scouts are backing off Josh Johnson; his outing vs. Braves was only decent one in last five, and his stock has fallen. Our needs should shift to getting a solid RH bat and a reliable middle reliever. If Venters can return to form, would be a big boost. Have just about given up on Uggla…What a waste.
Pal Joey
July 29th, 2012
12:07 am
Medlen should have been tried in the rotation long before now. Can’t be any worse that Jair. After all, he can do no worse than lose every five days like Jair is now doing.
Something is going to have to break with Uggla. He may be the most automatic out in the league and is a huge rally killer. It would seem to make sense to insert someone into the lineup who just might run into a pitch occasionally and get a base hit. This guy is a $14 million bust and needs to be off the field. Waiting around for him to hit a long one once in a blue moon is sheer madness. Fredi just can’t seem to make a decision about him. Someone up the ladder needs to whisper in Fredi’s ear that he is not enhancing his future with this club with his indecision in the matter. A substantial stint on the bench just might do Uggla good. It certainly would upgrade the offense.
usnavyvolfaninva
July 29th, 2012
12:13 am
LOL… is that really Medlen holding the Braves sign? Funny!!
usnavyvolfaninva
July 29th, 2012
12:14 am
@norcal,
that, and apparently they’re asking the world for JJ
usnavyvolfaninva
July 29th, 2012
12:17 am
Rittmann…
You have a good point, there is too much whining on this blog, but just as they’re 4 games from the best record in baseball, they’re also 2 games from missing the playoffs. They need to do whatever they can to put themselves in the best position to make the postseason. I’m sure they will.
Donte080
July 29th, 2012
12:41 am
Braves won tonight 2-1….doesn’t appear that suspect starting pitching is doing so badly…
Horrible piece of journalism, Jeff. Braves are steaking, and this is the best you can come up with?
We Need an Arm without Giving an Arm-and-Leg
July 29th, 2012
12:45 am
Let’s start THIS rumor and see if it can turn out to be true: Trade for Joe Blanton! He was great tonight, and would be an upgrade over Hanson. The Phils have 5 pitchers (including JB) paid over $10m/year. If they become sellers, maybe they’d trade within the division to get some youth and save some payroll.
I think we could get Lester from Bosox cheaply too. He’s awful in Fenway, but solid elsewhere.
banned poster
July 29th, 2012
12:52 am
I keep seeing this and I would like to know something. Some of you keep saying the Braves need another RH bat. OK, for the bench I can see, but if we are talking about a regular player, then just where in the world are we going to play him?
mace224
July 29th, 2012
1:06 am
Mark my words. Minor is going to be a star.You went from bum to a great draft pick in one outing. Don’t worry, you’ll be lambasted again if you have a bad game by all these “credible” armchair GMs.
mace224
July 29th, 2012
1:08 am
By the way, if we win 20 in a row, can you stop with the stupid, idiotic trade talk for anybody and everybody?
Mike
July 29th, 2012
1:11 am
Anyone surprised by this hasnt been paying attention since Liberty Media got in charge. Rest assured, if there is a cheap option, that is the one the Braves will be stuck with. The days of acquiring the Greg Madduxs, Fred McGriffs, and Gary Sheffields are over.
BT
July 29th, 2012
1:14 am
To be honest, the pitching is good enough with what they if the bats produce what they are capable of producing.
Maybe they add a bat for the bench.
The Dude
July 29th, 2012
1:19 am
Sit on it. Good chance at the playoffs as we stand. This team isn’t winning the World Series and one pick up wouldn’t change that. Keep the young talent…trade it in the off season if needed and use the the extra pay roll next year to build a World Series Team!
mace224
July 29th, 2012
1:23 am
To all you armchair GMS-You’re Fired! And to the one who quoted Hillary Clinton-You’re banished forever!
J-MAN
July 29th, 2012
1:48 am
Lets look at next years potential rotation
Hudson
Hanson
Minor
Delgado
Sheets
Medlen
Teheran
Beechy
Gilmartin
Vizcainio
Thats 10 arms for 5 spots granted Gilmartin and Beechy will not be ready to start the season.
But you people that want to hold on to Arms need to realize if you dont use them you will lose them.
I’m ok with keeping the talent but we are not gonna win this year also we need to cut our loses with Uggla he has been too inconsistant with the Braves. In fact if you take his July/August 2011 hitting streak numbers out of the equation he is a sub .200 hitter as a Brave. Yea its a lot of money 13 million a season but hitting .100 since June is unacceptable and we could actually do better with anybody else playing for him. He needs to be sent down to AAA and work to change his swing because he flies off of everything. He needs some kind of mechanism to slow him down like the bat waggle Sheffield developed or Sammy Sosa using Chipper’s double tap and swing.
bird
July 29th, 2012
2:59 am
Hanson sucks. Trade him in the off-season.
Medlen to replace Jurrjens in Braves’ rotation – Sacramento Bee | politicsandpolls-com
July 29th, 2012
3:41 am
[...] Atlanta Journal Constitution [...]
JerryFromGa
July 29th, 2012
4:00 am
I would trade Jurrjens for some Fogo de Chao gift certificates at this point.
Fearless Iranian Man from Hell
July 29th, 2012
5:01 am
..according to most of you generic GM’s, no player currently would be on the roster because each one was demanded to be traded after a bad game or a few games in a row, including hall of famers. I’m all for being an armchair GM, but at least ponder reality, so far nearly every player on the roster has been demanded to be traded by some of you fools. Medlen and Sheets would be highly sought after but you ‘grass is always greener over there’ types still demand that Wren salvage the future for an expensive rental. Yikes. Stick with video games.
Michael
July 29th, 2012
5:22 am
Is Jeff Schultz a douche in real life or just on the interwebs?
man and dog
July 29th, 2012
5:46 am
Medlen should have been Plan A from the get -go
man and dog
July 29th, 2012
5:57 am
Mike – with a dismal outlook of future transactions, I agree. You are so right.
hebrews11
July 29th, 2012
6:05 am
Only believe.
74bravesjersey
July 29th, 2012
6:53 am
Awesome Minor!
Notso FAst
July 29th, 2012
7:20 am
Do you remember when we were wondered what we should do because we had too much starting pitching? Now we know to never worry.
braveshoo
July 29th, 2012
7:21 am
The Braves are doing exactly the right thing. The young pitchers are getting better and better with experience; Sheets is as good as a #1; and Medlen will be excellent as a starter. Just keep playing hard and let this team determine its own destiny.
Robert
July 29th, 2012
7:21 am
Scratch another pitch off the list. Twins just traded Liriano to White Sox!
tim
July 29th, 2012
7:35 am
well for who ever came up with this startiling revalation thank you. lets dance with the one we brung.
Jack Dennis TN
July 29th, 2012
7:36 am
Braves no longer looking for RH bench hitter. Pastornicky to assume that role…….
Keith
July 29th, 2012
7:42 am
Re: Jack Dennis TN
No reason to believe that. Last story says they’re looking to upgrade a bat.
Packers Ed
July 29th, 2012
8:16 am
Everyone needs to get real if they think a team with less than an $85,000,000 payroll is going to win the World Series or for that matter enter the World Series.
I wish the fellow who owns the Angels owned the Braves instead.
Stinger2
July 29th, 2012
8:43 am
It appears that Clusters has now took dead aim with his negative drivel on Uggla and hopefully giving Chipper a rest. This guy Clusters must thrive on saying nothing good about someone who is down like Uggla is now. Sad to see a person like thisjust keeping on and on.
a fan
July 29th, 2012
8:55 am
Put Pastor at 2nd base for a while.
longtimefan
July 29th, 2012
9:13 am
To Packers Ed and other bloggers who don’t apply logic or facts to comments:
The Braves are right in the middle of the pack in MLB in total payroll-About 83M
Of the 15 teams with higher payroll exactly 2, yes 2, have better records-Texas and the Yankees
The mighty Phillies with their high priced SP and position players are more than 10 games behind the Braves with their supposed sorry GM
longtimefan
July 29th, 2012
9:32 am
Some bloggers just have to rag on something or somebody. They can’t just write ” The Braves are fourth in team batting in NL- pretty good” or “The Braves are one error away from being the best fielding team in the NL” of “The Braves are 8th in NL pitching and improving with team ERA now below 4″ or “FW made a great move by signing Sheets for no cost(all other GMs had the same opportunity)”. No, instead they complain about the payroll-see above, or individual players. Clusters and other depressives/naysayers were all over Chipper until his bat and fielding shut them up- they look like idiots continuing to say he can’t play seeing he is batting over .300 and leading the team in a number of categories. The stupid trade/bench Heyward comments have stopped for the same reason. The new target is Uggla. Never satisfied. Never happy. Always complaining. The naysayers-constantly trolling the Braves blog.
Livan's HONGRY
July 29th, 2012
9:34 am
Hey guys!!! Need me to be your 5th starter?? I make the veteran’s minimum but require a hefty per diem in meal-fare.
Jborodawg
July 29th, 2012
9:44 am
Good move, Medlen to the starting rotation.
The majority of us thought that Hudson-Hanson-Jurrjens-Minor-Beachy at the start of the season would be, at minimum, “serviceable” and hopefully very good. Of course it’s all Fredi and Wren’s fault that didn’t quite work out; and a large dose of blame going to McDowell. Maybe if we had the Phillies manager/GM tandem that starting five would have excelled and we’d be in first place.
Ken Stallings
July 29th, 2012
10:12 am
In the classic western movie, Rio Bravo, immortal actor Walter Brennan played the deputy town marshall. Jeff, reading this follow up column to the one you wrote criticizing Wren for failing to mortgage the farm for a two-month rental of Zack Greinke, I was reminded of one of the best lines of that film uttered by Brennan:
“There you go again! There ain’t no pleasing ya!”
To put it succinctly, the Braves don’t need to trade for a starter. They have the starters they need. With Kris Medlin joining the starting rotation, the talent appears to be where it best fits. With Peter Moylan soon to rejoin the bullpen, the Braves lose nothing in long relief if Moylan regains last year’s excellent form.
A starting rotation of Hudson, Sheets, Minor, Medlin, and Hanson is as strong as what anyone else in the NL has. You have two veterans, one close to veteran, and two youngsters. Hanson is the one struggling. Sheets may suffer an injury, but he’s strong now and has all the talent and guile to get by on excellent location. And with excellent location, a 91 mph fastball is a lethal weapon.
Given his track record, relegating Hanson to the number five spot might get him refocused.
Even if this does not happen, getting Sheets is the equal of making a blockbuster late season trade because as I wrote previously Sheets’ performane is demonstrably better than Greinke and Dempster. Pulling off that acquisition under the radar was a masterstroke, and one Wren should be getting a lot more credit for than he is receiving.
Stop trying to create a controversy before it materializes, Schultz! There is a good chance this rotation can carry the Braves to the post-season, in which case there will not be a controversy at all. If that happens, then the bonus is double as the Braves keep their farm system intact for sustained good results.
nobobfan
July 29th, 2012
10:16 am
We got Batista!! we need nothing else….ever again!!!
Fan of the Game
July 29th, 2012
10:41 am
Don’t claim to be a hitting coach but I was a pretty good hitter in my time and Uggla’s top hand is coming off the bat way too quick. Top hand has to work. That is why they keep saying his backsided is collapsing. Your top hand has to stay on the bat thru contact. Like I said not a hitting coach but watch today and you will see what I am talking about.
Don in TN
July 29th, 2012
10:54 am
kudos to Ken Stallings for quoting “Rio Bravo”!
BUSTERBrave
July 29th, 2012
11:03 am
HAS ANYONE CONSIDERED THE ADDITION OF PETER MOYLAN TO THE BULLPEN IN THE NEAR FUTURE ??
BUSTERBrave
July 29th, 2012
11:05 am
PARDON ME, @KEN STALLINGS,APPARENTLY YOU AND I HAVE………..:-)
reckingball
July 29th, 2012
11:12 am
Uggla is going to start hitting anyday now.
reckingball
July 29th, 2012
11:14 am
I suppose there isn’t any muck to rake today, for JS.
Dc 24
July 29th, 2012
11:33 am
See what it would take to get Beckett fro Boston. They don’t want him and would probably agree to taking on a portion of his salary. He’s still under contract for two more years after this one.
Scott Brantley
July 29th, 2012
12:17 pm
The Braves will in all likelihood have to make do with what they already have. What they CANNOT afford to do is have any losing streaks of 3 or more games. Back-to-back losses will probably happen, but they will find themselves out of contention if they cannot avoid any prolonged skids. Kick it into high-gear and keep it there fellas!
Rufino Linares
July 29th, 2012
12:21 pm
That photo of Medlin,… That’s just plain wrong.
superiorblogman
July 29th, 2012
12:25 pm
Edinson Volquez
Paul Maholm
Jason Vargas
Would all be good additions to the rotation for the right price.
Get one of those guys to add depth to your rotation if you can get one without giving up Teheran,Delgado, or Vizz, why not?
Hudson
Hanson
Sheets
Minor
Medlen/Maholm or Vargas or Volquez
Can’t count on guys staying healthy, can’t count on Minor staying serviceable. Too many questions to not get a guy if the price is right.
I really like Maholm and would not be against Volquez or Vargas all solid.
johnm
July 29th, 2012
12:42 pm
agree with nolakid, you suck schultz! and whats all this hate on our rotation about? All ive heard the last two years was how great our pitching was, and now everyone says we need another ace just to make the playoffs? thats bullsh@# and you know. We have the same great pitching staff weve had and I dont see any reason we cant pull things together and make a run with the guys we got.
Nahila
July 29th, 2012
1:02 pm
Plan B feels like it is the best available plan as I think Medlen will do well as any short term pitcher we could acquire and with 100 games in the books and with a few other games played before a pitcher could take their turn in the rotation, that leaves maybe only 58 games and only a possible 12 starts in this season,I think the Braves need to trade for another good outfielder rather than a pitcher since we have young future starters that should be ready next year. We need a good pinch hitter outfielder to finish out the season plus become a fixture in either left or center field for next year with Prado moving to third base and Bourne maybe bring lost to free agency which leaves a gaping hole in the outfield.
Arthur
July 29th, 2012
1:20 pm
I say give Medlen a chance to be the 5th starter. He did well in 2010 as a starter. Teams want too much for pitchers that are “supposedly” better than Medlen. How much better with 60 or so game left? One game better, maybe two OR maybe not any better. Also will the braves be able to resign these pitchers?
D man
July 29th, 2012
1:22 pm
I was hoping they would give Medlin a chance at starting. He has looked sharp this season and has starter experience. I like the move but who will fill his role of long reliever?
Bo
July 29th, 2012
1:24 pm
I hear Rome is looking for RH bat on bench. Uggla ideal fit.
Marco Pillow Throwerder
July 29th, 2012
1:29 pm
When Simmons returns put Janish at 2b.
Dan Uggla Fan Club
July 29th, 2012
1:30 pm
One member so far, his wife.
The Dude Abides... Still
July 29th, 2012
1:37 pm
Not sure what John is seeing if he thinks this is a great pitching staff. During the Spring, the braves were going Hudson, Beachy, Hansen, Minor, Jair. Two weeks ago Beachy was most likely in Physical theropy, Hansen has been walking every other hitter, Minor wouldnt stop pouting and Jair was a mess. That leaves us with Hudson. Today, the braves have Hudson, and amazing reclaimation project in Sheets, Hansen is still a mess, Minor that maybe can act like an adult and stop pouting at the first sign of adversity and a stretched out reliever that does have decent stuff. Just enjoy the rest of the season. I know the goal is to go deep into the playoffs. They will make the playoffs. Like every year, the team that can get on an roll usually wins the championship.
Trey
July 29th, 2012
1:47 pm
Hopefully, the Braves can rough up Halladay.
PHILLY PHAN
July 29th, 2012
2:01 pm
Hello everyone!!!
huddyroyal
July 29th, 2012
2:07 pm
yo- jeff, what do you know about Gus Schlosser up in Lynchburg? 11W-4L 2.88era 1.06 whip. Why does’t Frank W. move him on up? Can you get some info?
PHILLY PHAN
July 29th, 2012
2:08 pm
uggla the man!!! give him a rise
Buzz2011
July 29th, 2012
2:35 pm
Uggla gets a hit Sunday!! It had been so long since he has had one, he wasn’t
sure if he should head toward third base or first base.
RaleighDawg
July 29th, 2012
3:54 pm
Nice hustle Chipper…way to lead by example…
Drew
July 29th, 2012
4:41 pm
Well Frank Wren has made yet another horrible decision. He is so indecisive. Medlen has been mediocre in the bullpen and won’t do any better in the starting five.
And Uggla Strikes Out
July 29th, 2012
4:47 pm
Just keep Hanson and Jurrjens off the hill and the team will be fine.
GTT
July 29th, 2012
5:04 pm
Hope they trade Uggla and his .209 average. That’s ridiculous.
Hillbilly D
July 29th, 2012
6:03 pm
What a difference a day makes.
Rt
July 29th, 2012
7:08 pm
DREW, you need to check your stats on Medlen!
Bob Davis
July 29th, 2012
7:08 pm
Simply amazing how negative Shultz comes across in his articles about our Braves! I actually wonder some times just whose side he’s on. What a Debbie Downer….
thomas smith
July 29th, 2012
7:19 pm
trade uggla,hanson,jurrens to minnesota fo josh willingham and scott diamond.keep janish he is way better than jack wilson.
Benny
July 29th, 2012
8:21 pm
Today, Toronto released Vladimir Guerrerro. Any takers?
George R. Malone
July 29th, 2012
8:34 pm
I guess it would have been good to have dumped Smoltz, Glavine, and others who became stars and their talent took us a long way. To trade like we did for Drew, and the rotten Texas deal which gave them a big winner is not smart. Check out Smoltz and Glavine’s first year. Also check out Maddox, and other hall of famers their first year. Willy Mays was an initial flop. The Giants were not stupid and dumped him for some overaged athlete. See how Heyward, and Freddy are growing into big time stars. Two and half months and then lose them to untenable salaries to Boston, NY, or LA is stupid. We built our big winners with our own home grown. The Marlins have dumped high paid stars twice and the kids have taken them to the World Series.
barrock odrama
July 29th, 2012
8:47 pm
legendary john would surely have insisted the cubbies take delgado,tehran and betancourt .he then would have sold you idiot atlantans another few hundred books” how too build a winner in texas in one easy trade” lol
Josh Smith for 3
July 29th, 2012
9:13 pm
This is getting ridiculous. Uggla has never been known for a high average, but I’m pretty sure he wasn’t known for these kind of slumps with the Marlins either. In two seasons thus far, Uggla has proven that when he goes cold, he goes absolutely frozen tundra cold…
Braves Fan
July 29th, 2012
9:33 pm
If they do it will blow up in their faces. What they did to Medlen IMO was wrong. The kid was a really good starting pitcher, he had surgery and they put him in the pen. Knowing that the starters at the bottom were week they still kept him in the pen. Then they sent him to AAA to get stretched out and then they put him back in the pen. Medlen is a starter, he can pitch so for God sakes let him pitch. Having him in the pen does nothing for the team if they cant get out of the second inning with these rookies.
Beltrans' Right ear mole
July 30th, 2012
2:38 am
When are folks going to point out that Uggla clearly has some sort of a HEX on him for disrespecting the sun?
Quoting DOB on the exact moment Uggla’s slump started.
http://tinyurl.com/d99wwpp
Uggla’s mammoth ninth-inning homer was conservatively estimated at 432 feet and caromed off a sun located more than halfway up a garish pop-art sculpture that stands beyond center field at the colorful retractable-roof ballpark.
“They came back and told me I hit the sun,” Uggla said. “That’s cool…. This is where I started my career. To get my 200th here is awesome. To hit it here or Atlanta would’ve been awesome.”
That’s cool? Uggla asked for this hex. I hoped maybe when he got beaned in Miami the other night it might snap him out of it, but not so sure anymore.
best,
Beltrans’ Right ear mole –
(not to be mistaken for “Carlos’ Beltrans Mole” http://twitter.com/moleofbeltran )
O'Sheet
July 30th, 2012
10:15 am
Note to Dan Uggla–Since all the coaching in the world will never soak in, how do you plan to finish your career? As the ALL TIME strike out king??? It seems you are just too stubborn to give in–to listen, to try a new idea. Why??? If you did not have your “buddy” as manager, do you think you would still be in MLB? Whatever the answer is it’s not working for you. I suggest instead of upper cutting everything try hitting it into the ground–as hard as you swing it will go so high you should be on third base before it comes down!
Chief Knock A Homa
July 30th, 2012
10:30 am
I wouldn’t mind seeing the Braves take a chance on Beckett if the Sox are willing to eat a good portion of his salary, which it sounds like they are likely willing to do… His numbers aren’t too far off from his career stats, and he has post season success…
His last ten outings – earned runs – 4, 4, 3, 6, 2, 4, 2, 4, 2, 1… With him pitching into the 6th and 7th inning in the majority…
He could be a great, unexpected pickup without having to give up too much to get him…. But, again, only if the Sox eat most of the salary…
james
July 30th, 2012
10:38 am
Wow a site full of Fredi,s
HardHat
July 30th, 2012
11:28 am
@JEFF……Medlan pinch hitting for Uggla
HardHat
July 30th, 2012
11:34 am
@FREDI G…….playing the odds… Braves pinch hitting and Hinski up there, the other team changes to a lefty why pull Eric and put in Tyler P just to have the by the book lefty vs righty… Please a rookie vs vetern who would you rather have up there. Change for change sake. I am tired of it.
dre
July 30th, 2012
1:28 pm
baseball season started?
Jim
July 30th, 2012
2:46 pm
Why would the Braves sign a 41 yr old has been (or never was) who has been shuffled around more than a chess piece. Perhaps Batista will fill a hole at Gwinett made by calling up someone with promise.