All-baseball Bradley’s Buzz: Will DeRo be the Braves’ hero?
A triumphant return for the pride of Vinings Estates?
He played quarterback at Penn. He played everywhere for the Braves. He drove in the winning run in Game 2 of the 2003 NLDS against the Cubs. He lived in my subdivision (and, after leaving for Texas, rented his house first to Chris Reitsma and then to Mike Remlinger). And now Mark DeRosa might be coming back to the ol’ neighborhood.
So speculates Jayson Stark of ESPN.com. DeRo, as he’s known, now plays for Cleveland, and the Indians stink. (Apologies to all my pals in that fine American city.) The Tribe, Stark reports, wants pitching, and that’s the one thing the Braves have. But Frank Wren, Stark also writes, won’t part with any of his top-tier arms, meaning a trade partner would have to settle for Kris Medlen, Jo-Jo Reyes or Charlie Morton.
As for Frenchy: Stark believes the Braves are “mostly listening” to proposals for Jeff Francoeur, “in part because they need to add bats, not subtract them, and in part because no one is too sure of Francoeur’s true value anymore, including the Braves themselves.”
OK, you’re asking: Where might DeRo play if he again became a Brave? Pretty much wherever. He has been deployed at six of the eight non-pitching positions over his big-league career. (The exceptions: Catcher and center field.) And he could always serve as the backup quarterback.
(On a totally extraneous note, I should point out that Mrs. DeRosa was voted most attractive baseball spouse by Fantasy Baseball Dugout.)
The prospect prospectus
You’ll recall Gordon Beckham: Played at Westminster, led Georgia to the finals of the 2008 College World Series, was drafted No. 8 overall by the White Sox. Well, he’s tearing up the pea patch in Class AAA and could be summoned to the majors any minute (link requires registration), according to Kevin Goldstein of Baseball Prospectus. Goldstein notes the Pale Hose are so high on Beckham they’ve been giving him looks at third base to expedite the process.
More Goldstein: “[Tom] Glavine is ready for a return to the big leagues, but at what cost to the Braves? He’s a surefire Hall of Famer who absolutely deserves respect, but at this point, he’s no more than a No. 4 or 5 starter. Tommy Hanson is much, much more than that, and adding Glavine to the rotation delays Hanson’s arrival that much longer. It’s a tough position for Atlanta, where wins might go head-to-head with public relations.”
And this from Tom Verducci of SI.com: The annual post-Memorial Day promotions have begun. Writes Verducci: “Generally, if a team waits until after Memorial Day to start the major league service clock of a player, he won’t qualify as a ‘Super Two’ and get into the arbitration system a year earlier than he otherwise would — a tactic that saves millions of dollars for the club. Next up: Tommy Hanson. The Atlanta pitching prospect has been dominating Triple-A hitters.”
Loading ...The wait is over for Wieters
You’ll also recall Matt Wieters: Was a catcher (and a closer!) at Georgia Tech, was draft No. 5 overall by Baltimore in 2007 and was generally regarded as the minor leagues’ best prospect entering this season. He made his big-league debut — he’s now a full-time catcher — Friday night, and he got his first hits (a triple and a double off Justin Verlander) on Saturday. And Tim Kurkjian of ESPN.com quoted one unnamed former catcher as saying of Wieters: “He is Joe Mauer.”
FYI: Kurkjian quotes Don Werner, the Orioles’ minor league catching instructor, as saying Wieters learned to call games by watching Glavine, Greg Maddux and John Smoltz pitch for the Braves. (Wieters is from Goose Creek, S.C., which is near Charleston.)
Oh, and Peter Schmuck of the Baltimore Sun notes that the first opposing batter — Josh Anderson of the Tigers — tested Wieters with a bunt Friday night. Wieters threw him out.
Josh Anderson. Name rings a bell, doesn’t it?
Another name that rings a bell
Jake Peavy is now seen as the solution to the hole in Philadelphia’s rotation that opened with the loss of Brett Myers. But Jim Salisbury of the Philadelphia Inquirer suggests Peavy mightn’t want to play in Philly, either. Why not? Because Citizens Bank Park is a hitters’ paradise.
If you’re keeping score, Peavy has already vetoed a trade to the White Sox, and apparently he did the same regarding a deal with Atlanta in November. It was then widely believed that the Braves pulled out because San Diego GM Kevin Towers was asking too much, but Frank Wren has since admitted the deal fell through because Peavy said no to Atlanta.
OK, so now you’re asking: Will Peavy ever say yes? Kevin Kaduk of Big League Stew is getting impatient. I’ll note that Jake is 15-16 over the past two seasons and leave it at that.
Tell us what you think about the site
Customer Care »
Vacation stops, manage subscriptions and more
AJC Services
Sections
Other Editions
Visitor Agreement | Privacy Statement
© 2013 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
229 comments Add your comment
Big Al
June 1st, 2009
7:34 am
Why should the Braves worry about public relations in the Glavine case? Look how they treated Smoltz. Smoltz was a far better pitcher than Glavine ever was plus he is still able to win games. Glavine is just hanging on for the pay check. Bring the pitcher to the big show that can help the Braves win games.
Booger
June 1st, 2009
7:42 am
Why not let Bobby Cox make the pick?
Mac
June 1st, 2009
7:56 am
If a trade is made for DeRosa, I hope the pitcher to go is Kawakami.
DeRosa and I are proof you don’t’ have to be Brad Pitt to land a hot wife. Et tu?
carlton johnson
June 1st, 2009
7:59 am
Hey, Big Al! Glavine is hanging on for the pay check? Tom is not worried about his next meal…this year or ever. Hubris, maybe. Hunger, not so much.
mitch
June 1st, 2009
8:00 am
I’ve been gone awhile and used to go by another name. If you guess what it was, you win. YP, Mitch
Mike Lum
June 1st, 2009
8:10 am
Trade KK & Frenchy for DeRo. Would the Tribe take KK’s big salary? Keep Medlin, but JoJo or Morton could go. Insert Glavine & Hanson in the rotation. Remember, we have Hudson coming back in August. With the problems the Mutts & Phillies are having, if we can hang close & get Chipper healthy, we have as good a chase as anyone.
make Jo Jo go go
June 1st, 2009
8:10 am
Medlen showed yesterday why he absolutely has to stay. Morton has had a few, repeat few, moments arguing for him staying. Jo Jo? Bye-bye. Maybe Morton and Jo Jo come to think of it. But puh-leeze hang onto Medlen. He, Jair and Hanson could be the cornerstones of this franchise for a decade or more. The arms have been very solid so far with the exception of KK, who may have turned a corner recently. What we need are bats. At this point, we could add by subtracting…Surely someone somewhere could play rf and give us more ‘d’ and ‘o’ than we’re getting there so far. And while we are at it, when does Jordan take an extended breather? Blanco is across town and he was more ready to play at the Ted last year than Jordan seems to be now.
LeTwan Anthony
June 1st, 2009
8:18 am
“If you’re keeping score, Peavy has already vetoed a trade to the White Sox, and apparently he did the same regarding a deal with Atlanta in November. It was then widely believed that the Braves pulled out because San Diego GM Kevin Towers was asking too much, but Frank Wren has since admitted the deal fell through because Peavy said no to Atlanta.” – Bradley
What? Peavy did not fall over wanting to play for Bobby? Maybe Peavy’s been watching those Atlanta runners return to the dugout after a Francoeur at-bat. No one really knows, huh? It seems the Braves have courted quite a few players that have spurned advances. Money being the same, the organization and the manager no longer make a difference for the Braves.
Skeezix
June 1st, 2009
8:19 am
Trade Medlen? Are they nuts? It would be another example of sacrificing the long term for the short term, as they did when they traded away DeRosa to begin with.
"Chef" Tim Dix
June 1st, 2009
8:20 am
Monday’s edition of the Sports Buffet, hosted by ‘Chef’ Tim Dix and Rich Tate, features discussion on the Braves, Falcons, Hawks, Thrashers, Bulldogs, Yellow Jackets, and more. The broadcast begins at 9:00 PM ET, and is brought to you by Georgia Wrestling History’s GWH Radio Network. Click here to listen live at showtime. Feel free to call (347) 324-5735 to join in the conversation
Mark Bradley
June 1st, 2009
8:23 am
Welcome back, Leland.
Er, Mitch.
matt_T
June 1st, 2009
8:24 am
“I’ll note that Jake is 15-16 over the past two seasons and leave it at that.”
Come on Mark. Wins mean nothing, he played for one of the worst offenses in the league over those 2 seasons.
Willy Wally
June 1st, 2009
8:24 am
There’ll be much more of a p.r. hit pitching Glavine, and keeping Hanson in the minors, than pitching Hanson, and telling Glavine to hang around on the DL or in the minors just in case Hanson ain’t good enough yet in the majors.
Mark Bradley
June 1st, 2009
8:27 am
No offense — and I mean, “no offense” — but Gregor Blanco is hitting .242 in the minors. I don’t know that he’s an answer, either.
mitch
June 1st, 2009
8:33 am
I swear, I can’t get nothing by you, Mr. MB. YP, Mitch
dawgfan1911
June 1st, 2009
8:42 am
It’s interesting that the Braves dont have any good prospects they can possibly bring up from the outfield. It just does not look good for the Bravos right now.
Willy Wally
June 1st, 2009
8:42 am
Smoltz was a far better pitcher than Glavine ever was plus he is still able to win games. (BIG AL)
Say what?!?!?!?!? That’s a joke. Glavine was better than Smoltz. Glavine’s got the 300 wins to prove it. After all these years, Smoltz has barely got over 200. Even without the years in the pen, Smoltz would’ve barely been over 250. And if you look at the era of the big 3 from 1993 through 1999, Maddux and Glavine were better than Smoltz in the regular season AND in the postseason.
Smoltz has stayed better longer because he has somehow been able to remain a power pitcher into his forties. Somehow, he has done that. Until the roid era, how many pitchers besides Nolan Ryan remained power pitchers into their forties? Can’t really name any. But somehow Smoltz has defied the odds.
How many power pitchers in the roid era have remained power pitchers into their forties? Roger Clemens and Randy Johnson?
And, as for Nolan Ryan, when he was in his forties, it sure must have been great being a teammate with Julio Franco, Jose Canseco, Ivan Rodriguez, Juan Gonzalez, Rafael Palmeiro, and Kevin Brown. Or maybe, when they were kids, it was great for Canseco, Franco, Pudge, Juan Gone, Palmeiro and Brown to learn from the master of freakish, unprecedented performance.
Coach ( Moon Pie, Anyone?)
June 1st, 2009
8:42 am
Mark DeRosa might be the sexy pick but Jamey Carroll makes more sense due to the absence of Omar Infante, plus the Braves need for someone who can play 3B, SS and 2B. The Indians would be much more amicable in this regard.
Don’t be surprised if Carl Pavano ends up in Philly with the way he is pitching.
TommyP
June 1st, 2009
8:47 am
Coach: Jamey Carroll? Please.
DeRosa plays 3B, SS and 2B.
K Rack
June 1st, 2009
8:52 am
If I remember correctly, DeRosa was given plenty of chances to show what he could do while he was in Atlanta. He may have shown a few flashes but he was mostly average at best.
oldmike
June 1st, 2009
8:53 am
MB-”Peter Schmuck of the Baltimore Sun”. Really? With a name like that he has to be good. Is he?
wawel78
June 1st, 2009
8:56 am
I don’t know that I would give up KK and Francouer for DeRosa. He’s a utility man. I’m not sure there are any good solutions for the Braves other than a veteran like Lofton but word is he is looking for a decent sized contract. I just don’t see them paying for Holliday.
Mark – do you EVER hear Bonds’ name come up with any team? I don’t think I’ve seen anyone with such production fall off the earth like he did.
wawel78
June 1st, 2009
8:58 am
Also – regarding KK, we have to give him some time. He’s not only adjusting to a new league but a country as well. I’m sure there’s some culture shock involved. I’m optimistic about him. I think he’ll be fine once he starts locating better.
Mark Bradley
June 1st, 2009
9:01 am
Peter Schmuck is a fine fellow and a good writer.
DHD
June 1st, 2009
9:02 am
DeRo is only a utility guy when he has managers who think so. Did you the the time to see his full time stats from last year? He had 21 HRs, 87 RBI and hit .285. Don’t you think we could use that? I say bring him in here, but don’t give up too much. Cleveland is not going to take KKs salary,
Coach ( Moon Pie, Anyone?)
June 1st, 2009
9:06 am
NO TOMMY , he doesn’t. Not unless you consider Dero to be a utility player and he’s definitely not that guy.
Mark Bradley
June 1st, 2009
9:08 am
I don’t see Kawakami going anywhere. He makes too much money and hasn’t yet had much success.
And no, to answer Wawel’s question, Barry Bonds’ name never arises. It’s as if he no longer exists. Nobody wants that baggage.
wawel78
June 1st, 2009
9:10 am
The two years before that he had 13 and 10 HR’s in 136 and 149 games respectively. In fairness, he is on pace for 27 this year. I would love to have him over Franceour but at what cost? it’s not only who we trade but he is probably due between 3.5 and 4 million for the remainder of the season. I’m not sure the Braves are going to pony up that much for him.
Coach ( Moon Pie, Anyone?)
June 1st, 2009
9:11 am
OK, I’m kidding. Mark DeRosa is a very good utility player. But no he can’t exactly play SS anymore. 3B, 2B and both corner outfield spots are his primary positions. And a little first base too.
wawel78
June 1st, 2009
9:12 am
There must be more to the Bonds history than I know. Is he any worse than the trouble Manny causes? Bonds was still putting up pretty big numbers in his last year, if I recall correctly.
LT- A Blogger
June 1st, 2009
9:14 am
I’d trade Jojo Reyes and Jeff Franceour for Heidi DeRosa. Let Heidi wear that outfit in RF and I’m betting Turner Field attendance would rise.
David
June 1st, 2009
9:24 am
I like Mark DeRosa but he is NOT the answer Mark. If Medlin does what he showed yesterday, and Hanson continues to shine, they may have to trade a pitcher and KJ or a young player that is behind other players to go get a bat.
DirtyDawg
June 1st, 2009
9:28 am
I’m not so sure about a lack of interest in Kawakami. Seems to me his performance against SF last week would have impressed the impressionable West Coast – where a Japanese pitcher could mean revenue. Perhaps the Mariners were scouting that game, or maybe San Diego. I mean the guy has shown sparks of brilliance, and even if we have to pay a portion of his salary, and assuming somebody had somebody we could use, why not?
Kentavo
June 1st, 2009
9:29 am
By the way, the Braves didn’t trade DeRosa.
Billball
June 1st, 2009
9:33 am
Why blame our talent (i.e. Andruw Jones, Francoeur, Kelly Johnson)? Once they get here and blossom, then seem to go downhill, our batting coaches have never been any help. We haven’t had a decent one since Don Baylor. Francoeur is a very good ball player we are just giving up on. Kelly Johnson should be a .300 hitter by now. Who made the decision to dump Josh Anderson? When was the last time the Braves executed a sacrifice bunt?
Keep the talent and dump Terry Pendleton. Dump him.
jch
June 1st, 2009
9:39 am
DeRosa was not a game-changer when he was here before—that’s why we didn’t keep him. Why does anybody think he will make a difference now?
Mark Bradley
June 1st, 2009
9:52 am
True, DeRosa washed out at third base when given a full-time chance here. But he has gotten somewhat better since.
johnny evans
June 1st, 2009
9:54 am
my, my===with all the knowledge listed in the comments i just read… all should be on the field managing, coaching, etc..to many teams are 4 A now, why not admit it..
jle
wawel78
June 1st, 2009
9:57 am
I’m pretty sure San Diego would not take on KK. They’re already trying to dump Peavy.
JD
June 1st, 2009
10:14 am
Mark Derosa’s only had one season where he’s hit more than 13 homeruns. He’s 34 and hitting .266 this season. Unless he pulls a Bonds and gets incredible with age, I don’t see what benefit he’ll be.
JD
June 1st, 2009
10:14 am
ahh shoot…burned on the bold
Keeping It Real
June 1st, 2009
10:16 am
Are you kidding? Why do the Braves keep bringing back retreads for sentimental reasons while giving up good young talent in return. Please, please play the young guys. Why lose with former Braves when you can give experience to the young guys and win later. If this is a business, then why not improve the product. Another thing, please go out and find some speed and put him or her at the top of the order. This is probably the most boring team that has ever been in Atlanta….and that is really saying something.
Mark Bradley
June 1st, 2009
10:23 am
I took the liberty of fixing the boldface for you, JD. Hope you don’t mind. Thanks for the effort.
Braves73
June 1st, 2009
10:38 am
Dero for any of the pitchers mentioned (Reyes, Morton, or Medlen) would not be a wise move. The long-term value is not there and the short-term is in question. The move would be desperate (right now), and really doesn’t truly solve the Braves lack of power. I think Wren will have no choice but to wait until the trading deadline…a)To see if the Braves are still in the race & b)to increase the teams leverage. Other than that, they will have to hope for the best (in regards to health/Chipper) & make some internal changes.
Mark Bradley
June 1st, 2009
10:44 am
DeRosa for Reyes? You wouldn’t make that trade?
I’d make that trade in about two seconds.
The Grinch
June 1st, 2009
10:50 am
LT-A, that’s not the ONLY thing that would rise…hey-o!
LaTwan, do you think your mom could teach Frenchy’s cute little wife how to properly bake a pie? That may remedy the entire problem.
DeRo would be an upgrade in RF, but then so would Susan Boyle. No way at the cost of Medlen. And what’s with all the “Trade Jo-Jo” stuff? For what, a pickup load of fresh fertilizer? He hasn’t learned in three years what Medlen’s learned in three games: Trust your stuff and throw at least some of it near the strike zone and good things will happen. If we trade any legitimate talent at all it needs to be a serious run at a serious hitter. As much as I loathe Texiera as a person and that whole trade outcome, making it or something similar this season instead would have made much more sense.
Braves73
June 1st, 2009
10:52 am
It’s the only one that would be a “maybe” in the equation. Reyes was pretty dominant in the minors and he is a lefty. Bobby loves the kid and believes he has the “stuff” to be a major league pitcher…good luck trying to change his mind.
The Grinch
June 1st, 2009
10:52 am
MB, agreed. Then run like thieves before they came to their senses.
steve
June 1st, 2009
10:56 am
I was always a fan of “DeRo”. In fact, I was quite sad when the Braves parted ways with him. However, at this point in his career, he is NOT what the Braves need.
Braves73
June 1st, 2009
10:56 am
If it were me, I would still keep Reyes…he hasn’t had the “moment” where he realizes that he is good enough to be in bigs. I know that he hasn’t yet proved anything, but he is impressive in spurts. I believe that it may take some time, but he will be a greater long term value than Dero. Now, if the same proposal involved a sure fire power hitter (like Adam Dun) then I would change my tune…which of course you would too. The biggest challenge is that Dero (while being an upgrade) would still not fill the “power hitter” void the Braves lack.
crap-wheelie
June 1st, 2009
11:00 am
I would love to see DeRosa back. But will Cox. He used him terribly when he was here.
Bill
June 1st, 2009
11:02 am
DeRosa for Reyes! In a heart beat. But no for Medlen and Morton. Braves have others that could get that deal done. Thanks Mark for info.
Curious George
June 1st, 2009
11:09 am
Do you think Texas will trade us back any of our young “prospects” from the now-infamous Teixeira trade?
:’(
Curious George
June 1st, 2009
11:11 am
Who would’ve thought Andruw Jones would make such a productive “utility” player?
Ninju
June 1st, 2009
11:12 am
If we trade JoJo for DeRosa, he can play second which would allow us to Shop KJ (maybe package him with Morton and ship them to the White Sox for Dye). That way we gain more power in 2 key spots and as a bonus we get rid of JoJo Reyes. Can’t beat that.
Mark Bradley
June 1st, 2009
11:14 am
No, I don’t, Curious George. And I’m pretty sure you don’t, either.
Peadawg
June 1st, 2009
11:17 am
Good to here Gordon Beckham is doing good. Thanks for that update!
George
June 1st, 2009
11:21 am
Please bring Mark back. We really need him either in outfield or at 3rd if Chipper has more down time.
Mark's Bradley
June 1st, 2009
11:23 am
When you say “top tier arms”, are YOU judging who they are, or did someone from the front office say “Morton, Medlen, and Reyes are not our top tier arms”?
JeanE
June 1st, 2009
11:32 am
As the kids say: OMG! OMG! OMG!!! I want DeRo back here where he belongs so badly, although if might mean less playing time for Matty D….he would help the Braves so much, Chipper is always dinged up & he can play anywhere & hit!!!! It’s a no-brainer!!!! Come on Frank, do it!!! Who cares if they want Charlie Morton or whoever like that!!!!
Bravissimo
June 1st, 2009
11:40 am
I forgot what i was reading after I saw the pic of Mrs. DeRosa
Horner's Corner
June 1st, 2009
11:47 am
Straw poll, is Jamie Moyer a HOF pitcher now that he has 250 wins?? No one ever mentions him, but he’s had a great career without having overpowering stuff. He has pitched for a WS Champion and he was the anchor of the Mariners staff during the franchise’s best years. (Mariners won 90+ games each year from 2000-2003 and during those 4 seasons Moyer was twice a 20 game winner)
He currently holds the Mariners franchise record for career wins, IP, games started and Win-Loss % (based on pitchers with 100 or more franchise starts). He also holds the club record for wins in a season with 21.
Just curious what others think.
mesejs
June 1st, 2009
11:49 am
Mark – why aren’t we hearing anything about OF Cody Johnson in the Braves minor leagues – he has 17 homers after yesterday. If I remember he was early draft prospect a couple years ago. Tell us something.
chad
June 1st, 2009
11:54 am
Why in the world would Peavy veto a trade to Atlanta? Makes no sense, Turner Field is a pitchers ball park and it is close to home. He sounds like he might be on the bratish side.
Mark Cuban or Aurther Blank.. Please buy the Braves!
June 1st, 2009
11:58 am
Enter your comments here
chad
June 1st, 2009
12:02 pm
I like what Billball said. He makes a lot of sense.
1eyedJack
June 1st, 2009
12:04 pm
Can we just trade for Mrs. DeRo?
Mark Cuban or Aurther Blank.. Please buy the Braves!
June 1st, 2009
12:04 pm
I really like the idea of putting Dero at second. You can then move KJ to center or use him for trade bait to get a powerhitter. Then when Omar comes back we can put Dero in the OF. But don’t trade Medlen to do it! That one would haunt us for years!
Shoeless Joe
June 1st, 2009
12:06 pm
Mark’s Bradley 11:23
I was wondering the same thing myself.
Mark Bradley
June 1st, 2009
12:11 pm
Mesejs, here’s a Cody Johnson scouting report from Hot-Prospects.net. You’ll note the comparison to Adam Dunn — lots of power, lots of strikeouts. And if you check his stats, you’ll see he has struck out 70 times for Class A Myrtle Beach already this season.
Cameron
June 1st, 2009
12:12 pm
I would do DeRosa for Morton or Reyes. I might even be willing to part ways with Medlen for DeRosa. We need someone to provide the versatility that Ofante had and he provides much needed pop to our lineup. It does look like Garret Anderson is coming to form though. He has always been a slow starter, plus he missed a lot of ST. I will have to say, when everyone is healthy our lineup is good enough to win the wild card, maybe even the division. But, DeRosa can make a healthy lineup better and more versatile. The most value would come when we have an ijury or two, plus he can afford us the opportunity to sit struggling OF’s (Schafer and Frenchy). I like the target, but let’s not mortgage the future for DeRosa.
Mark's Bradley
June 1st, 2009
12:12 pm
Mark,
When you say “top tier arms”, are YOU judging who they are, or did someone from the front office say “Morton, Medlen, and Reyes are not some of our top tier arms”?
PMC
June 1st, 2009
12:17 pm
Peavy is further evidence why no team should EVER EVER EVER allow a no trade clause be given to a player.
Mark Bradley
June 1st, 2009
12:17 pm
Nobody from the Braves’ front office said that to Jayson Stark, I’m guessing, but someone (or several someones) from other front offices did.
And by top-tier young arms, I’m thinking the Braves have two of those — Jair Jurrgens and Tommy Hanson.
Hoosier Aaron
June 1st, 2009
12:18 pm
I have to agree with the Hitting Coach comments. It appears to me that we’re trying to clone all of our hitters into being one type. Frenchy was a swing from the heals hacker who drove in 100 runs two years in a row – but he struck out 130 times….who cares how many times he strikes out….Ryan Howard strikes out 199 times per year…big deal.
As far as getting another bat – I hope we don’t do something silly. We have Heyward coming and Cody Johnson is mashing the ball…btw…he swings and misses a few times too. If Schafer doesn’t work out…Gorkys looks like a good CF prospect. If we must get another outfielder – let’s target someone like Hunter Pence or Luke Scott…pay the price and get a good one.
johnny bravo
June 1st, 2009
12:18 pm
I’m a regular fan and I reported this over a week ago,
tale of woe
June 1st, 2009
12:32 pm
After yesterday’s performance I would take Medlen over Glavine any day of the week. I think he needs to stay and we can not think about trading him. Jo Jo can go go to Cleveland, but I would like to know how much longer DeRo is signed for. I don’t like giving up young pitching for a one year rental.
No More Bobby
June 1st, 2009
12:42 pm
This is the big deal we have been waiting for? Cmon!! There has to be players out there that wasnt once a Brave already!!! Im a bit embarrassed to be a fan. Its becoming Spinal Tap like the way this team is handled.
wawel78
June 1st, 2009
12:43 pm
Hoosier – the more stikeouts you have, the less you put the ball into play = less chance of getting a hit/causing an error/getting on base. Strikeouts are a very telling stat. Personally, I never wanted them to get Dunn because of this reason. It looks like he is working on this aspect of his game, though.
Chief Noc-a-homa
June 1st, 2009
12:46 pm
I know an OF who we could have had for very cheap. DH for TEX, hitting .282 with 5 HRs in just 25 games. Hindsight’s 20/20 but it would it have hurt to have given him a shot?
Mark Bradley
June 1st, 2009
12:48 pm
Oddly enough, the Spinal Tap comparison arose in a previous Buzz installment. (I believe I likened Garret Anderson’s mobility in left field to, er, Stonehenge.)
BRAVES BULL........pen
June 1st, 2009
12:52 pm
i’m a braves fan and live in milwaukee and today’s news were saying that vasquez could come here to milwaukee may be for corey hart.
brewers outfield is amaizing, braun(35 to 40 homers), cameroon(20 to 25), hart(15 to 20) you are talking 70 to 75 homers just from the outfield. WOW thats is production.
WREN
June 1st, 2009
12:54 pm
if we deal, deal for some body that will stay at least for 2 years. not just for 3 months.
wawel78
June 1st, 2009
1:04 pm
Yeah, I’m also reading on mlbtraderumors.com that Vazquez might be available.
Jeff R
June 1st, 2009
1:10 pm
Why would Wren surrender Medlen, with all his upside for DeRosa? Reyes or Morton, maybe. But Medlen is bulldog competitive and showed what he’s capable of in yesterday’s win against Arizona.
DeRosa has proved to be a better player than he showed in his stint with the Braves, but he’s older now. And Infante will be back in 5 weeks.
Could the Braves want to acquire DeRosa in anticipation of another move?
Spud Webb
June 1st, 2009
1:12 pm
It’s starting to slip away Wren. Not sure why Derosa? Unless he’s an everyday outfielder that can hit for power and drive in runs??? Which I Love Dero, but he isn’t. So I don’t really care about this chatter. WREN MAKE A MOVE. You have got to get the OF situation fixed ASAP.
Paul Lentz
June 1st, 2009
1:13 pm
Mark DeRosa is not the long term answer for the Braves offensive woes. However, for this year’s purpose, he is a right handed bat with some pop in his bat, he hits for a decent average, and he can play some defense. The Braves will not have to give up that much to get him.
I’ve said this in other threads. I really hope the Braves do not bring up Tom Glavine. Paying him $3.5 mil to solidfy what is already a strength (particularly when a much cheaper Kris Medlen has the ability to do the job), is not the move to make. Signing Glavine in Spring Training made sense because the Braves did not know how the health of the starters would hold up. Now that Medlen has demonstrated that he can make the necessary adjustments (plus Tommy Hanson is waiting in the wings should one of the others get injured), the move is to graciously let Glavine go.
Trading Franceour now, (his $2 mil remaining salary for this year) and not paying Glavine the $3.5 mil that he would get if he stayed on the roster for the rest of the season, would give the Braves $5.5 mil to go towards acquiring a right handed bat with some pop in it.
DFARASDFG
June 1st, 2009
1:14 pm
If the Braves trade Vazquez, they are completely out of touch with reality and destined to fail…just my opinion. Vazquez is good…a solid starter.
Jesse
June 1st, 2009
1:16 pm
seems like a Josh Willingham would be a better fit (check out his OPS this year) and probably wouldn’t require as much talent back.
what do you think mark?
Born2Buzz
June 1st, 2009
1:18 pm
Please don’t trade Medlen. The kid showed me something after the 4 run inning in SF. Whats he given up, 1 run in the last 10 innings since. Medlen and Hanson are going to be the cornerstones for this franchise for the next 8-10 years.
Now about Frenchy, I think his grace period is up. We will see more and more of Diaz in RF from now on. And if we get another bat, be it DeRosa or anyone else, we might just see Jeff shipped to the minors. He still has options, right?
Lazy Dawg
June 1st, 2009
1:21 pm
Where in the world would you insert Delro and why would you trade back for someone you already gave up on.
the truth...
June 1st, 2009
1:25 pm
I have posed the idea on Dave’s blog but have seen no response…why not get Jack Llewelyn to help Frenchy work on the mental aspect of his game?
Who’s Jack Llewelyn?
He’s the dude that sat behind the backstop wearing a red shirt so Smoltzie could be reminded of what they had worked on. Lest anyone forget, Smoltzie had a huge mental block back in those days…I think it is worth a shot to see if Mr. Llewelyn could help the kid?
What thinkest you?
Mark Bradley
June 1st, 2009
1:25 pm
Oddly enough, I floated the Vazquez possibility a couple of weeks ago. And got hooted down on here, as I recall.
Just me
June 1st, 2009
1:26 pm
If the Braves don’t want to play Diaz on a full time basis then trade him to some team that will. He could be a super star if given the chance.
Noah
June 1st, 2009
1:27 pm
Mark – do you EVER hear Bonds’ name come up with any team? I don’t think I’ve seen anyone with such production fall off the earth like he did.
Obviously Bonds situation is unique because of Steroids but he isn’t alone. Kenny Lofton was productive and no one wanted to bring him back in 08. Frank Thomas hit 26 HR’s in his last full season. There is a trend towards younger and cheaper over experience. Ivan Rodriguez had to play well in the WBC to get a job and I believe Pedro Martinez is still at home, although its because of his demand for top dollar.
Mark Bradley
June 1st, 2009
1:28 pm
I know Dr. Jack has been ill. (I believe Ms. Carroll Rogers wrote about it.) I haven’t seen him around the ballpark in a while.
MatthewH
June 1st, 2009
1:38 pm
I know you gave your apologies to Cleveland on this blog, but you really are trying to get invited on Cleveland TV again-aren’t you?
steve
June 1st, 2009
1:38 pm
Can we just trade for Mrs. Derosa?
P-Town Brave
June 1st, 2009
1:41 pm
Obviously Jordan has gotten his chance and should be sent down to Triple A at this point…Blanco’s face is shown under the word mediocre in the dictionary…
At this point, I think there’s really only 1 option, and that is to bring the kid, Gorkys up from Double A…I understand its quite a gamble, but according to most, the Braves more than likely won’t be keeping both Jordan and himself at some point anyways…
This kills two birds w/ one stone, getting a new leadoff hitter, and getting Kelly back to a more comfortable spot in the lower half of the order.
Also, I do agree that a DeRo for Reyes trade, I would pull the trigger on in 2.5 seconds!
WREN
June 1st, 2009
1:44 pm
jo-jo for eric byrnes??
WREN
June 1st, 2009
1:46 pm
jeff jenlins in milwaukee alway hit 25 plus homeruns. and hit 250 to 290 . better than other RF that i don’t want to see him in braves uniform anymore.
DHD
June 1st, 2009
1:50 pm
Realistically, Vaz is the only pitcher of value that the Braves can and will trade and other teams would be interested. We don’t want to trade our young guys and nobody would take KKs salary. We don’t want to trade Lowe. So, Vaz to StL for Ludwick or to MIL for Hart. then, trade Francoeur/Reyes to OAK for Holliday. Make both moves and we have instant offense without killing our rotation.
Leroy Updike
June 1st, 2009
1:51 pm
Yes, but it depends on the cost! Don’t pay with our future. UNLESS, we want another repeat of about the past four years. Let’s keep our primary emphasis on next year!
BT
June 1st, 2009
1:53 pm
Jordan should be sent down but not because he is a lousy player. The fact is that he should not be here yet. He had half a year at double A and didn’t do bad but wasn’t a star. The kid was rushed in my opinion and it seems like a lot of other people in baseball feel similarily. Hopefully the Braves will do something with him before his confidence is completely trashed. Not his fault that Wren had no one else plugged into CF.
Mark Bradley
June 1st, 2009
1:53 pm
Eric Byrnes is hitting .214. (So I guess what I’m saying is, he’d fit right in!)
And going back on the air in Cleveland is indeed my driving aspiration, Matthew. I will not rest until somebody sitting in a studio threatens to beat me up live at 5:30 p.m. again.
Noah
June 1st, 2009
1:55 pm
Future prospects don’t work out all the time. When is this future everyone talks about, by the time your bats are ready and get experience and perform 2 of your top 3 pitchers will be gone or too old so then your hoping that a young staff and young lineup will all come through.
BT
June 1st, 2009
1:56 pm
Wren hoped (wish I knew how to bold)that Frenchy would come back after a year and a half in the dumps. Wren hoped that Jordan would be ready. Wren hoped KK would be ready to win Big in the majors.
Wren did win his bet on the other starting pitchers but really crushed the team with his bets on the outfield.
DunwoodyBrave
June 1st, 2009
1:58 pm
For all those who talk about how Billy Beane would love to dump Holliday’s salary…remember, Beane said one reason he was willing to take on Holliday’s salary was not JUST because his young pitchers needed run support, but because it was just a one-year rental and HE WOULD GET TWO SUPPLEMENTAL FIRST-ROUND PICKS if he let Holliday walk after the season. So anything we offer has to beat two first-round picks.
Noah
June 1st, 2009
1:59 pm
Wren did win his bet on the other starting pitchers but really crushed the team with his bets on the outfield.
Did he have a choice, everyone agreed pitching was their number one need in the offseason. And management wouldn’t allow spending another $5 million to bring in Abreu or Orlando Hudson.
Frank from KS
June 1st, 2009
2:01 pm
Paul Lentz
Mr. Lentz
Tommy will be in the rotation soon.
Bank on it!!!
Nuff said!!!
As N8 has said on DOB’s blogs….he has earned a shot at being in the rotation and the Braves will give that to him.
Hoosier Aaron
June 1st, 2009
2:03 pm
I agree that strikeouts are a very telling stat – especially when a hitter is not productive.
Who wants to be the genius that tells Ryan Howard if he’d cut his strikes out down from 199 to (say) 150 – he’d be more productive – since he’s putting the ball in play more often….you know, more productive than his last three years RBI totals of 149, 136 & 146.
I personally would rather see Frenchy strikeout 132 & 129 times while driving in 103 & 105….than cutting down his strike out totals by 20 and knocking in 71 runs.
Plus – his average with RISP w/2 outs was pretty/very good even though he struck out 130 times.
Frenchy is a player who thrives on confidence (even to the point of seeming arrogant)…by telling him to be something that his is not – we’ve managed to mess up his production and take away his “arrogance” and his smile…he is beaten down right now.
Don’t blame Frenchy (in my opinion) – we jump him from Double A to the Majors because we like what we see – then we try to make him something he is not.
BT
June 1st, 2009
2:06 pm
Noah,in retrospect it seems that Wren over paid for KK (not sure his signing helped get Lowe), slightly overpaid for Lowe (although this may end up to be a bargain) and didn’t need to sign Glavine. Could we have got similar results from Medlen or Morton that we have received to this point from KK? I don’t know.
BT
June 1st, 2009
2:07 pm
Hoosier I think you may be right on Jeff.
Noah
June 1st, 2009
2:09 pm
Could we have got similar results from Medlen or Morton that we have received to this point from KK? I don’t know.
I think its too early to tell how good KK will be. And at this point I am very glad we overpaid for Lowe. Its easy to say what if but after last season the saying you can never have too much pitching was never more true.
steve
June 1st, 2009
2:09 pm
Hoosier Aaron – Nice post. I agree with much of what you said. I want Frenchy to regain his aggressiveness to a point. However, he has to learn to lay off the outside pitch. Still, I would hate to see us get rid of him at this point. There is too much potential there to completey write off when we are still talking about a 25 year old.
Mark Bradley
June 1st, 2009
2:11 pm
I remember asking over the winter, “How does Orlando Hudson not have a job?” (Not saying the Braves were in need of an infielder necessarily.) You just knew that guy was going to be a smash wherever he finally wound up.
CJDawg
June 1st, 2009
2:12 pm
I can understand the disappointment with the lack of power in the outfield…it’s obvious. Schafer, however, may be one of the top 3 defensice CF’s in the game. His bat will come around. In my humble opinion, I think Frenchy would blossom, but never in Atlanta. I think the pressure might be too much on him, but he also saves runs. Those runs saved are as good as RBI’s to me.
I would love to see Diaz get consistent playing time as well as Ross. I think McCann could be moved to first and Kotchman could be packaged with a young pitcher to bring in a big bat for Frenchy, who then could be traded for prospects at worst. Just my thoughts.
As bad as I hate to say anything against the man, it says a LOT when your own players go to other teams hitting coaches for tips. Pendleton was a great player, but he is not a batting coach. I would try to lure Mark Grace out of the booth….
Shoeless Joe
June 1st, 2009
2:13 pm
The KK signing is the one that will haunt this team for awhile. He’s obviously not the stud some Brave’s scouts had observed in Japan, plus his $23MM price tag makes him virtually impossible to move in the short to intermediate term. There was little or no offensive balance (speed or power) on this team at the end of last year, and nothing has changed this year. The Bravo’s continue to be half pregant…neither rebuilding or realistically competing this year.
BT
June 1st, 2009
2:16 pm
Hooseier,my concern is that we are doing to Jordan what we did to Frenchy.
Dan DC
June 1st, 2009
2:16 pm
Ken Rosenthal on the Braves and DeRosa:
http://msn.foxsports.com/video?vid=969bbed5-b112-4e8d-a107-4118cf2dcdee
Johnny DangerDawg
June 1st, 2009
2:24 pm
Mark Bradley,
Could this happen? Francoeur to Boston for a mediocre young pitcher. Then, the Braves give that mediocre arm and one of their own (Reyes, for example) to Cleveland for DeRosa.
Noah
June 1st, 2009
2:26 pm
The KK signing is the one that will haunt this team for awhile
Lets compare our #4 guy, KK, to the Phillies. KK has an ERA of 4.73, the Phillies #3
and #4 guy, Moyer and Blanton have ERA’s both above 6.00. BTW, there best starter ERA is 4.66 about the same as KK.
Shoeless Joe
June 1st, 2009
2:31 pm
Noah:
The Phillies can afford to have substandard pitching (and still win by the way) because they absolutely rake…top to bottom. The Brave’s need five cy young candidates to pitch for them with the offense they have (assuming they want to compete for a Division title). If the Phillie’s successfully upgrade their pitching, they’ll start to put some distance between themselves and the rest of the field.
Noah
June 1st, 2009
2:34 pm
The Phillies can afford to have substandard pitching (and still win by the way) because they absolutely rake
Agree. But find me a team without good pitching that wins comes postseason. Also, there are nota lot of good #4 starters out there anymore. Heck, most teams don’t have a good #3.
Baba O'Riley
June 1st, 2009
2:40 pm
No chance on Moyer. He’s a compiler. He belong in the Hall of Better than Average
James
June 1st, 2009
2:42 pm
I would trade Reyes for DeRosa in a heartbeat.
Seems to me DeRosa didn’t play well at 3rd in 2004, but Chipper was wanting to return to 3b the whole time–added pressure.
Also seems I’ve read bringing Steve Avery up at 20 was great–at the time–but the stress on his young arm (much) prematurely ended his career.
Above all, though: Terry Pendleton needs to be fired, now. And, when Bobby decides to retire I hope they bring in Ned Yost, and get rid of the entire current coaching staff.
Roja
June 1st, 2009
2:42 pm
Why would Dero want to come back? Look at his stats. He’s a .278 lifetime hitter. Not fantastic but given his utility status, pretty respectable. As a Texas Ranger he hit .284. As a Cubbie, he hit .289. As a Brave he hit .266. His average actually went down in Atlanta the longer he played here from .308 in 2000 down to .239 in 2004. I call that the “Pendleton Effect”. He would probably be batting somewhere south of Francoeur Country once TP had him for 6 weeks!!
Shoeless Joe
June 1st, 2009
2:43 pm
Noah:
Brave’s pitching for postseason is really good (#1-#3), unfortunately they’re not gonna get there with this offense, and even if they did, they wouldn’t get through the first round since our hitters would be facing the oppositions best pitchers. In case you haven’t noticed, when our offense does come to life it’s usually against an inexperienced pitcher and/or one who is struggling. What other team makes so so pitcher’s look like cy young candidates with such regularity?
Noah
June 1st, 2009
2:47 pm
In case you haven’t noticed, when our offense does come to life it’s usually against an inexperienced pitcher and/or one who is struggling.
I agree offense needs help but I for one am glad they made pitching the priority in the offseason. I still say pitching wins more then hitting (See the Texas Rangers and even some powerhouse Seattle Mariners teams offensively) Now lets get some offense. That said they have beat Santana and Holladay this year, both times without Chipper I believe.
Baba O'Riley
June 1st, 2009
2:49 pm
Why not take a chance on Jonny Gomes of Cincy? He’s never gotten a shot at an everyday job, has power, and would be cheap. He would lead our OF in HR in a month’s time.
Shoeless Joe
June 1st, 2009
2:55 pm
Noah:
All good…but unfortunately to get the offense we need we’ll have to give up some good young pitching, which takes me back to my original comment about KK. Wouldn’t it have been better to spend the money on a known need (right handed power bat) and cycle through some of our young guys in the #4 and/or #5 spots to see who rises to the occassion? Heck even Campillo did a credible job starting last year and he’s totally absent in any discussions about starting pitching this year. I just think the powers that be went overboard in the offseason on s.p. to the exclusion of offense.
Shamus Thacker
June 1st, 2009
2:57 pm
Peter Schmuck?
Must be a friend of yours Mark. Just TOO easy… lol
AJC
June 1st, 2009
3:01 pm
I think Glavine will do the right thing and retire if his pitching is subpar. Hang on to Medlin unless someone is desperate & is willing to over-trade for him. Reyes for DeRosa would be awesome. Holliday would be great to have too along with DeRosa, but only if he’s not a rental.
fan man
June 1st, 2009
3:07 pm
if we dont make some kind of deal for a bat in the outfield we may not be in it by the end of june much less the trade dead line. but i would break the bank for dero he may help us stay in it long enough to get to july 31 and mak a real deal.
bravessince85
June 1st, 2009
3:16 pm
Ahem… after watching the Dodgers play the Cubs last night on ESPN.. something caught my eye… the Dodgers was not 2B, 3B, or HR’ing… however, they were getting singles after singles after singles… its quite fun to watch. However, as a diehard fan, it stings every time to see the Braves get the bases loaded with no one out and fold. To me, with the Braves.. it’s never actually been about the physical aspect of the game.. it’s more mental. The Braves are a completely different team when they score a couple of runs first in the ballgame.. when they get behind.. they all of a sudden go in panic mode and try to do too much. I just think if they mentally adjust and realize it’s a 162 game marathon, they will start going on a few winning streaks. They have the tools to win with the everyday lineup (Esco, Kotch, Chipper, BMac, Garrett, Francoeur, KJ, [insert centerfielder], Pitcher) they’ve shown they are just as good as anyone… i agree totally that a big bopper would help a lot.. I think the pitching aspect was helped out a lot this past offseason.. and I think they can still win this year if they mentally get right..
as far as next season, with Garret Anderson and Tom Glavine gone… why not make a very strong push for Jason Bay? He to me is the best available outfielder this offseason.. your thoughts..
Karl Childers
June 1st, 2009
3:18 pm
They should trade Francouer for some biscuits and mustard…..
That would be a steal at this point…
mmmmmmmmmmmmm…………..
Karl Childers
June 1st, 2009
3:19 pm
I’d also take some potted meat for Francouer….
mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm………
slow roller
June 1st, 2009
3:21 pm
Fire Terry Pendleton and hire a real hitting guru.
the real Old Gold
June 1st, 2009
3:25 pm
Just think, in a couple of years we can try to trade for Frenchy… way to develop your talent Atlanta.. Draft them, trade them, pay millions + players and prospects for them a few years later.
slow roller
June 1st, 2009
3:28 pm
Is there any correlation between what has happened to the Brewers since they fired Ned Yost? Everyone agrees that Ned Yost was a great guy. A coaching change is incredibly easy to do and doesn’t cost you any money. Just to be clear, I am not talking about Bobby. I am talking about Batting Coach TP. Or, is there a universal conscensus that hitting coaches have no impact whatsoever. Otherwish, FIRE Terry Pendleton and see if a different approach works.
Mark Bradley
June 1st, 2009
3:35 pm
Gee, I can remember when everyone in Atlanta loved TP.
Billball
June 1st, 2009
3:36 pm
Here’s the answer: we get Mark Bradley to be our mole and get hold of some old Charlie Lau videos, then secretly stick them in all of our players’ lockers.
Drew
June 1st, 2009
3:43 pm
you people have lost your mind if you think Medlen is not expendable. He gave up 3 runs in how many innings to a pretty bad dbacks lineup. has he done anything else?
Ron Roberts
June 1st, 2009
3:43 pm
I actually think (just my opinion, here) that Kawakim is going to end up being one of the better 3/4 guys in the majors this season; save for one start, he’s been pretty good in that spot. I’m MORE concerned that the Braves might try and move Javier Vasques (known commodity, doing well, eats innings, is affordable and under contract thru next season) when, frankly, I think he’s exceeded expectations. It’s just a shame that our offense hasn’t supported him better.
THAT BEING SAID, I think there are signs of hope, Braves fans… Garrett Anderson’s quietly riding a 9-game hitting streak, and dude, that bomb he stroked to RF yesterday looked effortless. THAT’S what we’ve been missing out of the OF spots in the lineup. And for what it’s worth, Jeff Francoeur HAS hit in seven of his last 10 games; problem is, his strikeout numbers are maddeningly high. Even WORSE – I see Jordan Schafer seeming to EMULATE Frenchy’s approach at the plate. Scary.
Still, though, the Braves are at .500 and within reach of the top of the division. So the ‘lack of panic’ from Cox is good for us; seeing him put Diaz in CF or RF to give one or the other starters the day off is a Godsend; I’d like to see thi smore often so we don’t have TWO black holes in the lineup in the same game. THAT, with better results out of Garrett Anderson will go a long way for the Braves.
That, and seeing Chipper go yard; I’ll take more power from him even if it means a lower batting average. It’s what the team needs. Heal that toe, Chip, and start goin’ yard more.
Drew
June 1st, 2009
3:45 pm
ok, my bad it was only one run in 6 innings, but come one don’t hock the braves future on 1 outing against a bad team!
K with a K
June 1st, 2009
3:46 pm
Trade Frenchy to Boston for Lars Anderson
Trade Vazquez,Morton,A-AA prospect to Brewers for Cory Hart and Mat Gamel. You get Frenchy in a new town and I like the way Hart plays. You get in Gamel a third baseman for after Chipper and he can play a little LF.
Another trade I think might work is the same Vazquez package as above for Brandon Wood and Gary Matherw Jr. form the Angels
yogi2
June 1st, 2009
3:47 pm
Release Franquer and Norton. trade jo-jo , Shafer, Glavine, and Carlyle
for Mark DeRosa. Trade CAMPINO for Langerhans
DHD
June 1st, 2009
3:48 pm
Pet peeve: when people write “the Brave’s.” You don’t put an apostrophe there. There, I feel better.
mesejs
June 1st, 2009
3:50 pm
Thanks Mark for the scouting report on Cody Johnson. Wouldn’t Adam Dunn look pretty good in our outfield today – power hitters do strike out. And, doesn’t Johnson hit in the clean-up spot for Myrtle Beach. Just a thought.
Ron Roberts
June 1st, 2009
3:57 pm
Slow Roller….hold up on the post-Ned Yost bashing, for now. The Brewers started off well, last year, too, as memory serves. And DREW, I’m with “you people” on Medlen; no way we ship him off after yesterday. The Diamondbacks are, last I checked, a major league squad, and he made ‘em look silly for 6 strong. He gave up FOUR hits…FOUR. Heck, he really wasn’t all that awful in San Fran, either; Pedestrian effort, sure, but for a kid in his SECOND MLB start, he showed composure. I’d keep him, knowing that a kid with his skill, along with Hanson and Jurrjens makes for an awesome top-three rotation grouping.
Jfreak
June 1st, 2009
3:58 pm
DeRosa is a good fit and we should have never let him go. However, he’s not the savior this team would have to have in order to make a real run. Don’t get me wrong I’ll take DeRosa over 90% of our current players but he’s a good player not a great one. Hope it goes down and if we only lose JoJO and or Medlen it’s probably worth it.
Mark Bradley
June 1st, 2009
4:01 pm
Did my eyes deceive me, or did someone just advocate re-acquiring Ryan Langerhans?
charles harris
June 1st, 2009
4:03 pm
How is Heyward and Freeman doing in the minors? If they are dominating,then wouldn’t it be worth it to take a good look at them NOW? As for DeRosa, he would be a valuable addition but of course not giving up medlin or hansen.
Also,let’s make Chipper a player-coach-go Braves!
csg
June 1st, 2009
4:07 pm
eric byrnes? hell no
do the braves think they are a Derosa away from contending? If we get him, there better be another move for a player of his caliber coming also. We need two OF’rs not just one
Ron Roberts
June 1st, 2009
4:08 pm
Langerhans is in AAA for the NATIONALS, for crying out loud. If HE’S no good to ‘em, that’s not a good sign.
Mark Bradley
June 1st, 2009
4:27 pm
DeRosa isn’t a savior. He’s a good ballplayer who can play different positions and hit better than half the Braves’ current lineup.
Richie
June 1st, 2009
4:32 pm
DeRosa was here for 3 years with TP as the batting coach, and his numbers regressed each year. I do believe it is time for the Braves to let Pendleton go, though. I don’t see any players improving under his tutelage as the hitting instructor
Richie
June 1st, 2009
4:34 pm
I would like to see the Braves add DeRosa, I’d also like to see the Braves acquire an actual leadoff hitter. Someone like Bourn or Taveras, maybe even Pierre.
Wayne in Utah
June 1st, 2009
4:36 pm
I have always thought we needed someone who could step in at third with some pop in his bat, for the times when Chipper is out. DeRosa would be the perfect fit for that slot.
He could also play some corner outfield, and give KJ a day off at shortstop.
I have always like Prado, but I don’t think he is the answer as a utility guy or at second base, unless you package KJ with a pitcher for a significant OF upgrade.
I would only go with Prado regularly if we could upgrade significantly in one of the corner OF slots.
As much as I wanted him to succeed in ATL, I think Francoeur is going to be dealt in the next month or so.
BT
June 1st, 2009
4:48 pm
MB did you come out of the radio interview unscathed?
LeTwan Anthony
June 1st, 2009
4:52 pm
If the players know how to bunt, hit behind a runner, steal a base, throw to the cutoff – yet repeatedly fail to do so . . . is this a player problem or a coaching problem?
o-me
June 1st, 2009
4:52 pm
Is it me are why does the Braves always like to try to get players back after they leave ? Most times they’re to old, like Glavine, but his time DeRosa could really help this team. He could take Norton’s place. Even with DeRosa will still need a big bat in RF.and help in CF. my $.02 worth. Keep Medlen.
o-me
June 1st, 2009
4:56 pm
LeTwan. Its the Coaching in my opinion.
Karl Childers
June 1st, 2009
4:56 pm
I’d rather have some of dem french fried potaters playing in right field…
mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm…….
Baba O'Riley
June 1st, 2009
4:56 pm
if we acquire Lars Anderson, do Ole and Arn come in the deal as well? I agree with Drew. Medlen had 1 non-terrible start and now he’s untouchable?? Remember David Nied?
Baba O'Riley
June 1st, 2009
4:57 pm
o-me…it’s just you.
Ron Roberts
June 1st, 2009
4:59 pm
I remember David Nied; I remember his being plucked by the Rockies in the expansion draft, and pitching in Denver BEFORE they put the baseballs were stored in humidors before the games, too. Apples and oranges.
Baba O'Riley
June 1st, 2009
5:02 pm
Humidors had nothing to do with his ineffectivness. He was overhyped. Apples to apples. You still getting your t-ballers to give themselves up to advance runners?
Atlanta Journal Constitution » Blog Archive » All-baseball Bradley’s Buzz: Will DeRo be the Braves’ hero?
June 1st, 2009
5:03 pm
[...] Mark Bradley | ajc.com – [...]
Joe Stanislau
June 1st, 2009
5:04 pm
Well I say lets trade away Charlie Morton for Mark DeRosa and a OF prospect along with Brandon Hicks (our middle infielder) to even out the trade 2-2.
o-me
June 1st, 2009
5:19 pm
LeTwan, my opinion its the coaching. Sometimes you may have a Frenchy that may not take advice.
o-me
June 1st, 2009
5:23 pm
Baba, that’s what I thought. Thanks friend.
kirkinga
June 1st, 2009
5:24 pm
I wouldn’t trade JoJo, Morton, or Medlen for DeRo. The same people pushing for a deal like that will be back here next year talking about how “the Braves always trade their good young pitching, Adam Wainwright, blah, blah, blah”.
You don’t trade a young arm for a 34 year old journeyman who are overpaid for a couple of seasons. What if something happens to Hanson? What if we have an injury to a couple of starters …remember last season?
No, you only trade those good young arms for impact players. In the Braves case, an impact player is a bat that can hit with runners on and/or another reliable arm in the pen that can get you to Soriano and Gonzo.
AJC
June 1st, 2009
5:38 pm
Mark, I don’t hate Terry Pendleton as a person or as a former player, but I think the Braves batting has suffered under his leadership and it’s time for someone else to take over that job…Again I ask, is TP the Braves manager in-waiting? Mark, please respond if you know the answer to this question.
Ron Roberts
June 1st, 2009
5:47 pm
Baba (whoever YOU really are)I won’t lower myself and dignify your ignorance with more of a reply than what you got. But nice ‘depth’ to your retort about David Nied. Yeah, Denver being a home run meccas had NOTHING to do with his ineffectiveness…nor for Mike Hampton, Darryl Kyle or Denny Neagle, who all came into Denver with good-to-great numbers, and all tanked in Rockies’ uniforms.
Oh, and next time ya wanna take a personal pot-shot, try to find the grown-up within you and be the better person. I know it’ll be difficult for some, but maybe I have more faith in you than you do. You are an adult, right?
Larry
June 1st, 2009
5:56 pm
The Braves are still a couple seasons away from having another great crop of home grown stars, this time around with some home grown pitching (lest we forget Smoltz and Maddux were not Brave farm system products).
Morton, Reyes, Hanson and Medlen will make a decent rotation if given the chance. There is some power in the farm system. We had 14 straight years of division championship baseball, sometimes you just have to sit tight and wait for the next group of players to come around… As much as that is not fun, we should not trade the future to improve a team that will be mediocre at best.
Horner's Corner
June 1st, 2009
5:56 pm
6 good innings against Arizona on get away day = Medlen for NL Cy Young Award.
Gary
June 1st, 2009
6:10 pm
I would trade Jo-Jo for a steak and a six pack of beer. When will the Braves realize that he isn’t major league caliber?
Ron Roberts
June 1st, 2009
6:14 pm
Horner, nobody said Medlen was “Cy Young material” this year. But in general, why would you trade young pitching phenom(s) for a guy (Mark DeRosa) who’s a career .278 hitter, who’s maxed out at 21/85 in the HRs/RsBI dept. (half the games that year, in the ‘friendly confines’ by the way).
You have to trade good talent to get good talent, more often than not, but I don’t at all get why anyody’d be down on Kris Medlen, given what he’s shown us, thus far.
JEB
June 1st, 2009
6:28 pm
If I’m trading pitching – it is Jo Jo Reyes, Charlie Morton, or James Parr. Maybe a combination of the three – for DeRo.
NO WAY I let Medlen go. He will be a top teir starter – once he gets his head calmed down. His advice from D-Lowe was grabbed up in a hurry and he proffited from it. We would regret it tremendously if we let Medlen go for DeRo!
JEB
June 1st, 2009
6:29 pm
I would give a combination of 2 of those 3 pitchers I named above – not all 3 for DeRo.
Paul Lentz
June 1st, 2009
6:41 pm
Jo Jo has good stuff. I would not get rid of him, just for the sake of it, like I would Franceour. Franceour’s play the past 2 seasons helped me make up my mind about him. I was looking at the career stats of a number of really good major leaguers. I did not see one whose career paralleled Franceour. Simply put, I did not see any good players who, at Franceour’s age, had 29 homers in their second season of playing, only to drop down to 19 and 11 in their next two seasons. Really good players do not drop off like Franceour does, unless they have an injury and miss time.
Jo Jo Reyes has good stuff. He just needs to learn to pitch with confidence and go after hitters. He needs to do this in the minors. While I would love to see the Braves keep him, I would have no problem with the Braves including him in a package that helps the team right now. He isnt what I would consider an untouchable.
I just do not agree with the Braves adding Tom Glavine to the roster. Having someone who will be lucky to go 5 innings (after all, his pitch count will go up because he nibbles and nibbles.). Potentially paying him $3.5 mil when the Braves can pay 400k to Medlen and Hanson is not the move to make.
However, I fully expect the Braves to add Glavine to the roster due to reasons that run against what is best for the team right now. It isnt enough to make me not want to be a Braves fan. However I will continue to voice how wrong a move it is.
Texan
June 1st, 2009
6:53 pm
Reyes is to pitching what Frenchy is to hitting. There’s no way the Indians are going to trade Derosa for Reyes as some have suggested. Reyes with Morton – maybe. And we don’t need either of them, so I hope we do it.
Pickin' Daisies
June 1st, 2009
6:54 pm
Will there be any takers for Jo Jo, since he’s on the DL?
No More Bobby
June 1st, 2009
7:03 pm
Just Me – Diaz will never be a star but could put up decent numbers if playing everyday. He is a bit boring to be a star though.
kjb
June 1st, 2009
7:23 pm
Watch out for Gorkys Hernandez, Jason Heyward, Freddie Freeman, Tommy Hanson & possibly Cody Johnson in the next year or so!!! These guys will bring the fans back to Atlanta. Do not trade these guys, coming from a true Braves fan. Tell me what you think about our future with these players!!
francoeuristheman
June 1st, 2009
7:25 pm
f you guys who think francoeur sucks, he’s sick and he will bounce back
Mark Bradley
June 1st, 2009
7:30 pm
No, you can’t really trade a guy who’s hurt.
DeRo to Atlanta? - FanHome
June 1st, 2009
7:37 pm
[...] out that Mrs. DeRosa was voted most attractive baseball spouse by Fantasy Baseball Dugout.) more __________________ "We’ll be back next year. We always are, aren’t we?" -P Greg [...]
Keeping It Real
June 1st, 2009
7:44 pm
For all you idiots who want to blame TP for the Braves poor hitting, you need to stop smoking those funny cigaretts. You cannot coach a team to hit in the majors when the lack of physical ability and talent are so obvious. I think that someone said that Matt Diaz could be a super star if given the playing time and that the Braves can win the wild card with the present lineup. WOW!!! There is nothing like blind faith.
Baba O'Riley
June 1st, 2009
7:45 pm
Phenom???bwahahahaha
AJC
June 1st, 2009
8:31 pm
Keeping It Real, I’m pretty sure that you’re the idiot here. What players on the Braves team lack the physical ability & talent to learn to hit better at this level? Make sure you answer that Rain Man err err I mean Einstein….TP’s gotta go, and most everyone realizes this. Unless of course, the team starts scoring runs consistently. Oh I forgot, the Braves haven’t done that in over 3 years. I do agree with you about Diaz though. He’s a decent hitting 4th outfielder, and nothing more…I don’t guess Mark is going to answer my question about TP being the next in line.
Keeping It Real
June 1st, 2009
9:18 pm
AJC,
TP does not swing the bat or think for these guys when they are in the box. However, he did swing the bat and think when he played for the Cards and the Braves. None of the players on this team outside of Chipper and Escobar and Kotchman have the talent and physical ability that TP displayed when he played.I am talking major league talent. They are Triple A talent at best. No speed, no power and no defense = no physical ability.
Lee
June 1st, 2009
10:00 pm
The Braves have to do something, but the relief pitching is what makes my stomach turn. As soon as I see Buddy Carlyle or Jeff Bennett headed in, I know that the game is done. And Moylan is no better – walking 15 batters in 17 innnings. I dont care who they call up from the minors. Not much chance they could be any worse than these three.
braves phanatic
June 1st, 2009
10:10 pm
braves are worried about public relations with glavine????
i wonder if glavine worried about public relations with the braves when he decided to sign with the mets a few years back? obviously not. i know i am in the extreme minority but i cant stand glavine. a lot of it has do with him going to mets and trying to stick it to the braves. we all know the braves are loyal to a fault but why pay glavine to come back and not smoltzy? i mean smoltz never left us for anybody, let alone our biggest rival.
hatred aside, the smartest move here is obvious….its hanson.
raindawg722
June 1st, 2009
10:14 pm
I’m not so sure that calling someone up after memorial day saves them from achieving super-two status and become arbitration eligible a year earlier.
The MLB Players Association site says:
Q: When does a player become eligible for salary arbitration?
A: A player with three or more years of service, but less than six years, may file for salary arbitration. In addition, a player can be classified as a “Super Two” and be eligible for arbitration with less than three years of service. A player with at least two but less than three years of Major League service shall be eligible for salary arbitration if he has accumulated at least 86 days of service during the immediately preceding season and he ranks in the top 17 percent in total service in the class of Players who have at least two but less than three years of Major League service, however accumulated, but with at least 86 days of service accumulated during the immediately preceding season.
The 86 days of service in the immediately preceding season (whatever that season is) requirement would seem to be fairly easily met.
It’s harder to tell with the top 17% requirement since that is relative to other players with less than three but more than years of service. However, if all the major league teams start using memorial day as the benchmark to say “it’s okay to start calling up our players now” then it’s going to be a lot less likely that a player is “safe” just because they waited until memorial day. Teams who want to ensure that their players are not going to be arbitration eligible one year early are going to start bringing up their prospects later and later.
Mark Bradley
June 1st, 2009
11:00 pm
RainDawg, I commend you for doing such detailed research. But I must also tell you that it sets a nasty precedent on the ol’ blog.
Slow Roller
June 1st, 2009
11:19 pm
The Braves are worried about public relations when it comes to firing TP. Maybe they should fire Bobby and go ahead and make TP the head coach as everyone says is inevitable. Then, and only then will we hope to get a decent batting coach!!! Anyone is better than TP. Then maybe McDowell will come into his own. Guess what, batting coaches do make a difference. On another subject, does anyone know why Leo can’t get a job? In the right organization, his methodology will work. Or, do the Orioles have to approve wherever he goes? And for those that didn’t notice, the Brewers regrouped and made the playoffs after firing Ned Yost last year. How does anyone explain that? Is Ozzie Guillen a better coach than Bobby? Which one will win his second World Series first?
Paul Lentz
June 1st, 2009
11:26 pm
raindawg722…..you said “86 days of major league service the previous year AND the top 17% of players eligible”. When one uses AND in a sentence…it means that one has to fulfill BOTH requirements. It doesnt matter if he has played 86 days in the Majors. If others were called up before him, then chances are he wont fall into the 17% category. Calling someone up in mid to late June is the safe thing to do to avoid kicking in salary arbitration early.
Raymond
June 1st, 2009
11:29 pm
I have seen De Rosa with the Indians this year and he doesn’t look as good as he did with the Cubs last season. he really doesn’t address the power shortage and is getting old. I wouldn’t give up more than Reyes and a mid level minor leaguer. If Glavine can pitch,with him and Hanson, we can let Vazquez go for a better hitter such as Hart.
Slow Roller
June 1st, 2009
11:35 pm
DeRosa was in a Cubs uniform last year where they knew how to win. It affects your plate attitude. You play better. I am from Cleveland, and I know how he feels being in Cleveland….what a reward! His wife sits in front of her hair dresser everyday hoping and praying for a trade! No more whoopie until you get traded, Mark!
Scott S.
June 2nd, 2009
12:10 am
Does anyone know why Gregor Blanco was not in the line-up for Gwinnett? Is he being called up to lead off and take some pressure of Schafer? Are we sending Schafer down to Gwinnett?
francoeuristheman
June 2nd, 2009
12:15 am
francoeur needs to lead off…and try something new
Tommy D
June 2nd, 2009
12:17 am
Let’s give up a prospect for a player we discarded. Why Not?
Mark's Bradley
June 2nd, 2009
1:04 am
Anyone who thinks that it would take more than Morton to get Derosa is a moron. I’d expect the Indians to eat some salary in that trade as well.
Medlen is not a “phenom”. He’s not a “top of the rotation” guy either. I recall Morton throwing 7 scoreless against Arizona last summer, and look where he is now… Are we all honestly going to go start to start on our projections of young pitchers like a roller coaster? It’s absurd and annoying. Let the kids pitch. It’s the way it shoulda been done if the Braves really wanted to profit off of the talent of their young arms. Instead, they gave Jo Jo (who is arguably the least effective young pitcher to come along in years) more opportunities than any one.. Devine, Davies, Miner, Morton, James..Who knows who else. The way they’ve handled their young arms is ridiculous.
brianstahl
June 2nd, 2009
2:02 am
i have been a braves fan since 1990 and watched tem go from worst to first and had gotten use to them actually competing every year for at least a division title.the last 3 or 4 years have been a hard to swallow including this year.i don’t feel dero is the complete answer to our problems.i do think we need to keep some of our better prospects.but i do believe we need to make some sacrifices to bring in some power back to our lineup.we do need to part ways with frenchy,he’s become more of a liability than anything,and i think a change in scenery would do him good.cf is another position i would address.i like everyone else am tired of rentals and would like to see our gm makea gutsy move and make trade sooner than later while we are still within striking distance before we wait too long and it doesn’t matter any more.a cory hart or j dye would look good in our outfield.
and i think at this point right now,i would rather see us bring up hanson and keep glavine in the minors in case we have an injury or use him for a trade.either way i hope we do something soon.
on a lighter note,my wife is 7 months pregnant and we have decided to name him[if it is a boy]chipper ryan stahl,of course after arguably the greatest switchhitting 3rd baseman of all time.CHIPPER JONES.
Justice for all
June 2nd, 2009
7:44 am
Want to improve the club, well heres what you do.
Say goodby to Glavine and promote Hanson
Say goodby to Pendleton and promote the AAA Hitting coach
Stop batting Kelly Johnson in the leadoff role. Put him at 6-7 300 AVE
Put Escobar as leadoff and Kotchman in the number 2 hole
With the new batting coach both Schafer and Francoeur will get hot and thats all you need to do.
I have said all along that Pendleton is responsible for the young hitters going downhill. Yet we continue to trade them and the problem is not solved. Its time they take note and fix the real problem which is Pendleton wants to clone himself in the young hitters and thats not a hitting coach. Thats someone who can mess you up real fast and keep you there for quite some time. Francoeur hit until Pendletons cloaning and I really think its time that we ditch what doesnt work and thats the coach not the players.
Michael J
June 2nd, 2009
9:06 am
Bring DeRo back! The guy can play anywhere. He seemed to be well liked by his teammates and had such a great attitude when he came up with the Braves. Give up JoJo & Kelly for a guy who can hit, & play 2nd, SS, or 3B . Kelly has had a great attitude, but he will never have the reactions necessary to be a solid 2nd baseman. DeRo can play there without any problem, and his bat will help as much or more than Kelly’s. Foe those that do not remember his time with the Braves, he played 2b, ss, & 3b without issue while here. (I was in the stands when he hurt his knee playing ss) His only problem on offense will be Pendleton as a hitting coach. If he struggles at all, I’m sure Chipper will be available for assistance. Had not seen a pic of his wife – wow – no wonder DeRo smiles all the time!
AJC
June 2nd, 2009
9:22 am
The Braves front office are in quite a predicament with Terry Pendleton…Looks like they’ve chosen TP, who allegedly (I hope I’m wrong) has been ordained Bobby’s manager in-waiting over the waning Braves fan base, who deservedly want a new batting coach who can maybe bring some consistency to the Braves mostly long time anemic offense…It’s almost as if the Braves front office does not even acknowledge the pulse of the fan base.
As for the blog poster named Keeping It Real. You keeping digging yourself into a deeper hole every time you type & post your mindless drivel.
Mark Bradley
June 2nd, 2009
9:30 am
Francoeur needs to lead off?
Well, there’s one I wouldn’t have thought of.
K with a K
June 2nd, 2009
10:15 am
Has anyone heard any rumors of the Braves scouting the Twins. Maybe looking at Delmon Young or Michael Cuddyer?
JustOneHitter
June 2nd, 2009
10:20 am
I hope the Braves aren’t as itchy to make a senseless deal as some on this blog are. Ideally, the Braves could send Schafer to Gwinnett and let him get his head back on straight and find a taker for Frenchy and Garrett Anderson. Whoever they put in the outfield couldn’t fair any worse than those three. I am not for, on the other hand, going out and trading prospects for a player that makes Atlanta only marginally better. Mark DeRosa would not fix the ills of the Braves. He’s another utility player. The Braves have more utility players than they have pitchers. If Atlanta deals for an outfielder, many want a power hitting phenom who will immediately thrust the Braves into the euphoria of the ’90s. I would love to have three outfielders who can play their positions, steal some bases and hit the ball without striking out 50% of the time. I have watched for the duration of the Braves exile from the playoffs and seen a team that relies on the five run homer. Problem is,there is no five run homer and there is no one on this team capable of carrying the team with the long ball. Build the team otherwise…utilize speed, hustle, defense, pitching and consistent hitting.
K with a K
June 2nd, 2009
10:28 am
JustOneHitter, I am all for the point. The bad thing is Bobby Cox does not seem to know how to build or manage such a team. He seems unwilling to adapt to a small ball team. This is just a questio…is it above a manager to ask a player what pitch he is looking for or what is is plan going to the plate and the player strays from that pitch or plan pull him?
fieldofdreams
June 2nd, 2009
10:58 am
Medlin looks like a keeper to me. If I’m trading pitchers right now, Vasquez, Campillo, Reyes, Morton, KK, are all available. And why, oh why, is Glavine still wearing our uniform? He beat us out of $8 million last year, and we owe him nothing.
timthebrave
June 2nd, 2009
12:31 pm
When does Infante come back? I don’t think the Braves need to trade anything more than Reyes for Derosa. I don’t think he will have a big impact on winning or losing the division. We need a BIG bat and Derosa is really not going to put us over the top from what we have; even though I do like him as a player
timthebrave
June 2nd, 2009
12:34 pm
I would rather see infante in the lineup and put kelly johnson in the outfield
timthebrave
June 2nd, 2009
12:45 pm
G Anderson is starting to heat up. The injury in spring training may have affected his slow start. I think he is starting to really hit the ball and hit with power. No need to trade him now.
Keeping It Real
June 2nd, 2009
1:06 pm
AJC,
In the words of the great Russ Lindbaugh, you are a racists and a threat to white men everywhere. LOL!!!
AJC
June 2nd, 2009
1:27 pm
I’d like to see G Anderson prove a lot of us including myself wrong about him being over the hill or not wanting to play here…But more importantly the Braves as a team can’t have a nice sweep of the Blue Jays, and then follow that sweep by losing 5 of the next 7 games..Way too inconsistent..And am I the only person that’s sick & tired of hearing about how Glavine is doing? I’ll tell you what he’s not doing, and that’s helping the Braves win games, ever since he limped back home from the Mets…It’s time for Cox to get his team in solid contention to make a serious run at the playoffs, and Glavine needs to pitch & win for the Braves no. If not, they both need to go sit and watch Oprah while waiting for the Hall of Fame call.
AJC
June 2nd, 2009
1:40 pm
Keeping It Real,,,,you are quite the unfunny jokester.
But seriously, how long have you been incoherent? Wait wait nevermind, just ignore the question. I don’t feel like trying to decipher your answer.
brianstahl
June 2nd, 2009
1:55 pm
seeing how tbs lost faith in the bravos and decided to drop them off the air,that really hurt me seeing how i live in florida,does anyone know of a site i can go to to watch them online for free?i’ve tried a few sites and none of them work.please help i miss watching them struggle.lol!!
Mark Bradley
June 2nd, 2009
2:36 pm
I’ve heard the Twins’ rumor, especially pertaining to Delmon Young. Thanks for asking, K.
Keeping It Real
June 2nd, 2009
2:43 pm
AJC
Your onipotence personifies your Lindbaugh/Hannity attitude and explains your lack of baseball knowledge and common sense. LMAO!!!!!
AJC
June 2nd, 2009
8:06 pm
Keeping It Real…..onipotence!!! What???? ROTFLMAO!!!
But just to be serious for a moment Lennie Small err I mean K-Real. I like you, but there’s no way that I’m going to let you hold my pet hampster.
brianstahl
June 3rd, 2009
12:53 am
i actually got to watch our bravos play tonight vs. the cubs.it started off as usual with us getting not great but decent pitching and no offense.we didn’t even have a hit til chipper reached on a base hit to left in the 6th inning i think off a rookie.then we scored one in the 7th off of andersons solo shot to make it 5-1.nd then with a little help from some cubs pithching[MARMOL],we walked a few times and did a little damage to make it 5-3.and then in the ninth they[cubs]brought in GREGG and and it came down to one man on with 2 outs and guess who was up but the one guy who has let us down for most of the year,frenchy.i’ll be honest with you,i literally told my wife that the game was pretty much over when wouldn’t you know it he hits a game tying homer to left center field.and noone was probably any happier about it than he was.way to go frenchy,that a boy.and what a great job by our bullpen namely gonzo and soriano.it was good to see the guys get one to go our way and see some excitement after chipper knocked in the gamewinner in the 12th.and who was one of the first if not the first to be there conradulate chipper but frenchy.mabye this will get our guys motivated and awake some of that potential i know our bats possess.remaining optimistic,yours trually.way to go BRAVOS!!!!!!!!!
francoeuristheman
June 3rd, 2009
2:17 am
for all the francoeur haters….how bout tonights clutch homerun for you, in the ninth with 2 outs….thats what i thought. he is incredibly gifted and WILL turn it around….the turn around has begun hey mark how bout you write an article talking about something positive francoeur has done for once and maybe he will turn it around and give himself some confidence….kinda like how the media keeps talking about how were in this huge recession and freakin out the public….as long as they continue to talk about it the longer were gonna stay in it…kinda reflects francoeur
Terence More
June 3rd, 2009
5:36 am
Mark,
You’re getting more like me every day.
TM
brianstahl
June 3rd, 2009
11:39 pm
i’m glad to see us pull the trigger on a major deal and get someone who’ll be here longer than half a year and be able to make an impact immediately.now the question is where does mcclouth bat in the order and does this mean frenchy will still be a bravo after the trade deadline?and kudos to our gm on releasing glavine and bringing up hanson to start on saturday.all of this together could be good enough to get er’ done!
While We’re Waiting…DeRosa’s Trade Value, Orlando’s Bandwagon, and Dan Gilbert Speaks | WaitingForNextYear
June 4th, 2009
9:01 am
[...] I wonder if this has changed, now that the Braves have acquired McLouth…”DeRo, as he’s known, now plays for Cleveland, and the Indians stink. (Apologies to all my pals in that fine American city.) The Tribe, Stark reports, wants pitching, and that’s the one thing the Braves have. But Frank Wren, Stark also writes, won’t part with any of his top-tier arms, meaning a trade partner would have to settle for Kris Medlen, Jo-Jo Reyes or Charlie Morton.” Mark Bradley/Atlanta Journal-Constitution [...]