Live from the ballpark: Braves put Bradley mojo to test!
I’m here at the ballyard to conduct a grand experiment. I’m here to see if the El Marko mojo still works. (”El Marko” was what Max Baker, who was so addled he nominated me for president of our senior class at Maysville High, occasionally called me.) And my mojo is mighty. From the AJC of Oct. 22, 1996:
“That the Braves are going to win this World Series is apparent. It is also, in the grand scheme, secondary. No longer is this team playing against the overmatched Yankees. The Braves are playing against history … This is the greatest team of the post-free agency era, among the best ever. You can trot out any of baseball’s storied assemblages – the 1927 Yankees, the Gas House Gang, the Big Red Machine – and wonder how these Braves would have fared, but that sword cuts two ways: Would those clubs have seemed so majestic if they’d had to hit against the Braves?”
That was, alas, the zenith — or the nadir — of El Marko’s so-called career. The Braves led that World Series 2-nil. They would lose it 4-2. The team I likened to the 1927 Yankees lost four straight to the 1996 Yankees. Talk radio in New York (and there’s a lot of it up there) had great fun with me for months.
I mention this because I just posted a little something about how I’m thinking the 2009 Braves will be playing in October. The 2009 Braves have won six of seven since the All-Star break and have closed within three games of the wild-card lead. They’re playing well. And I’m here today to watch them lose 15-2 and make me look silly for, oh, the 797th time this calendar year.
I’ll be happy to entertain any and all questions as we put my powers of hexation to the test, and I’ll begin with a couple of notes: The Braves announced today they’ll be moving to 680 The Fan and its FM affiliate Rock 100.5 next season, which affects me not one whit. (I’ve got Sirius XM.)
Loading ...And according to esteemed colleague David O’Brien, the Braves have recalled Kelly Johnson and sent Brooks Conrad to Gwinnett. And Bobby Cox has named Johnson his starting second baseman for every game the rest of this century. (Kidding about that last part.)
Oh, and one thing more: In the moments before we get going here — it’s overcast, by the way — you might take a look at another El Marko post from this morning, this one posing the musical question: Is Tommy Hanson the best Braves’ rookie pitcher ever? As ever, I thank you for your patronage.
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509 comments Add your comment
Mrs. Chanandler Bong
July 23rd, 2009
12:29 pm
Listen, MB, I posed a question to you in an earlier blog and I’m hurt that you haven’t answered.
Steak Shapiro
July 23rd, 2009
12:31 pm
Listen to me Bradley, I am way more important to the sporting scene that you are.
UcantCLA
July 23rd, 2009
12:33 pm
Just wanted to point out the Ken Griffey Jr. is DHing in Seattle and he’s batting .211 with 10 HR’s while Garret Anderson is batting .287 with 7 HRs and Diaz hitting at .304 with 4 HR’s. The braves got better by not getting Jr. Who is missing Smoltz and Glavin now?
Also I think Soriano is a free agent after this season, someone want to tell Frank Wren to sign him ASAP. Pay that man his money cause I like Gonzalez but I dont trust him like I Soriano. Is there any talk of us re-signing him????
Panties in a wad
July 23rd, 2009
12:37 pm
The only reason to bring back KJ is to shop him. Conrad deserves to stay.
coach joe
July 23rd, 2009
12:39 pm
Hey – its great you put yourself out there .I remember 1996, we steam-rolled the yankees the first tow games and then Whollers gave up the home run and we have been scrambling ever since. But we aere looking good right now, so I’m excited.
coach joe
July 23rd, 2009
12:39 pm
Hey – its great you put yourself out there .I remember 1996, we steam-rolled the yankees the first two games and then Whollers gave up the home run and we have been scrambling ever since. But we aere looking good right now, so I’m excited.
OptimisticInTexas
July 23rd, 2009
12:42 pm
El Marko,
Tu sabes espanol? I am wondering if you think it is a good idea to have a personal interpreter for Escobar that helps him translate for English media interviews, helps him get assimilated to U.S. baseball culture, helps him learn English and helps seek stories within the Spanish speaking media to market him the Hispanic community? If so, I’d be interested…
Ron Martin
July 23rd, 2009
12:44 pm
So Conrad goes and Greg Norton stays?
How do Wren & Cox justify that????
T-Bone
July 23rd, 2009
12:44 pm
Though it is certainly hard to argue with the offensive output of July, I still wish we had a big bopper in the line-up. We’re a team full of doubles hitters–which ain’t bad–but there’s nobody in the line-up that makes opposing pitchers take notice, nobody that they have to pitch around (except maybe Chipper).
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
12:45 pm
Curse you MB, curse you
"Chef" Tim Dix
July 23rd, 2009
12:45 pm
Mark, when ever I feel I’m getting too big for my britches, I read that ‘96 column and reel myself in. Hey, it’s cheaper than therapy.
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
12:46 pm
By the way hated to hear KJ was promoted, really hurts the Gwinnett hitting. Also, that is great new about 680. I love listening to the Braves during daylight hours.
Jorge
July 23rd, 2009
12:48 pm
Why not release Norton and keep Conrad???????
Bring back Belliard
July 23rd, 2009
12:50 pm
Hey Mark/Anyone,
What’s the latest on Infante’s injury? I think he went out in late May and it was supposed to only be 5-6 weeks. Any news?
I’m interested to see where he fits in when he gets back. He was so hot when he went down, but unfortunately we don’t have an opening right now.
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
12:51 pm
Actually, Mrs. CB — and forgive me for my tardiness, but between driving and writing and eating breakfast, I’m a tad behind — I don’t think they’ll keep both Gonzalez and Soriano. I think they’ll keep the latter. And you know who might become a set-up man? (This is me guessing, OK?) Kenshin Kawakami.
JEZ
July 23rd, 2009
12:51 pm
I agree, Conrad is a stud on the field! Guy can hit and his defense is pretty sharp, Norton has become a wash out
Juan
July 23rd, 2009
12:51 pm
how do they justify keeping a guy that’s batting .111 and can’t play the field and sending back a guy that’s contributing a .344 average and 8 RBI. Norton’s had like 4 all year? Why do we need more automatic outs from the bench?
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
12:52 pm
The Braves have been saying all along Infante is expected back in August, if I’m not mistaken.
And why keep Norton on the roster? Well, you’ve stumped the band. Perhaps because of his lovely singing voice.
Homer
July 23rd, 2009
12:53 pm
FIRE BRADLEY!!!
JEZ
July 23rd, 2009
12:53 pm
MB, I like KK in the set up role..although it’s an awful lot to pay a guy for setting up, but he could certainly be effective. How do you think he would react to that?
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
12:53 pm
Steak & Beau Bock are douche bags.
joshdmac
July 23rd, 2009
12:53 pm
I’m curious about the question Ron Martin asked too, Mark, and i’m sure there are plenty others wondering the same things. have we not gotten to this point — playing competitive baseball, that is — by having the best guys on the field? have Norton and KJ not made it abundantly clear that they’re not capable of contributing to a contending team right now?
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
12:54 pm
Norton stays because he is the only plumber on the roster
Marc
July 23rd, 2009
12:54 pm
I predict the Braves will go to the post-season this year! There, now we’re both to blame if they don’t make it…
No but seriously, if they don’t win the wild card I’m egging your house.
JEZ
July 23rd, 2009
12:55 pm
I love Gonzo’s heart and passion, but he needs some mechanics adjusting..especially with all of that rocking he does. He is just inconsistent, but very effective when on his game..and a few too many pitches that get up in the SZ.
Juan
July 23rd, 2009
12:55 pm
Norton can sing?
Tim Brown
July 23rd, 2009
12:56 pm
Conrad will get to play daily and remain sharp. We may need him later this summer. Johnson will either produce or be shown the door. We must give Norton a chance he may be odd man out when Infente returns. Cox and crew make great decisions, keeping veterans around that know how to play the game is not a terrible idea. Cox is not to stubborn to win but does realize the season is long and a proven player is generally more reliable than an unproven player.
Juan
July 23rd, 2009
12:58 pm
Tim — are we talking about the same Cox who left KJ and JF in the line-up two months longer than they should have been?
Got to play the people that are contributing, get rid of the one’s who are not.
Honolulu Braves
July 23rd, 2009
12:58 pm
MB – Several thousand miles b/w me and the team doesn’t mean anything! Is KJ going to join the platoon in the OF now with the other corner guys?
Jorge
July 23rd, 2009
1:02 pm
Funny how all the Esobar trade rumors suddenly stopped.
JL Burke
July 23rd, 2009
1:03 pm
Norton has had plenty of chances. When you are hitting .111, 45 at-bats is more than enough. I doubt there’s another team in the majors that would take Norton on its roster right now.
DHD
July 23rd, 2009
1:05 pm
Conrad goes back because he can play everyday at Gwinnett rather than sit the bench in ATL. Conrad is 30 miles away if you need him. hopefully, Norton gets some PH appearances and some AL team would trade for him. Maybe he gets thrown in a deal. People who question these moves DO NOT know what is going on behind the scenes. AND it’s the same Bobby Cox that put Escobar in the 6 hole when most of you were crying for him to be traded. Shows what you know.
JL Burke
July 23rd, 2009
1:07 pm
DHD — An AL team is going to trade for Norton? You’re dreaming.
SanFranFan
July 23rd, 2009
1:08 pm
EL MARKO keep me posted on the butt kicking that SF is going to administer to the braves today.
mike
July 23rd, 2009
1:08 pm
I hope Greg Norton gets another chance to pinch hit with the bases loaded again. It could really boost his ego, and his .116 avg.
joshdmac
July 23rd, 2009
1:09 pm
Come on DHD, no matter what’s going on behind the scenes, Norton is completely inept at this level — and that’s out there for everyone to see. At some point you gotta stop throwing away his ABs.
Jorge
July 23rd, 2009
1:10 pm
For the record, I never cried that Escobar should be traded. I’ve been pro-Escobar all along. But Norton is hardly a proven player. Sure he’s had decent success off the bench the past several years, but it’s not happening this year. Time to give it up and move his .250 career average on.
Mrs. Chanandler Bong
July 23rd, 2009
1:10 pm
I think it’s good KJ is back up because we can showcase him and (contnue to) shop him around. MB, I’ll forgive you — but only this once. I was actually thinking it would be more along the lines of Huddy (a la Smoltz) in the set-up position. I still haven’t completely given up on KK as a starter — when the dude’s on, he’s on.
Juan
July 23rd, 2009
1:11 pm
Yeah, when Norton came up with the bases loaded on Saturday, it was like Bobby waving the white flag of surrender.
JEZ
July 23rd, 2009
1:11 pm
dmac, I agree, Norton needs to join the field crew and help put the tarp on the field when it rains..hey he can sing while he’s laying the tarp!
The_Superhoo
July 23rd, 2009
1:12 pm
MB,
You’re quoted in the blog on ESPN.com
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
1:13 pm
Norton instead Andersen on Sat., BC looked like a genuis
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
1:13 pm
And, in my defense, the Braves had outscored the opposition — the Cardinals and the Yankees — 48-2 over the past five playoff games when I wrote the infamous paragraph. They were playing as well as any team I’d ever seen in postseason.
Underway now. Sun’s shining. Kawakami gets Randy Winn to ground to the mound.
Jeremiah
July 23rd, 2009
1:14 pm
I think Norton is still here because of his overall success as a PH last year…he was one of the best, if the the best PH in the majors…In a world of “what have you done for me lately”, this is hard for so many to understand…He also has not gotten a lot of opptys this year, and in one of his first opptys after coming off the DL, he did deliver…When he had ab’s everyday in AAA, he was very solid, I think that the braves liek his bat, but realize that he has not yet had the opptys this year to prove it…It is too early to just release him, if we did that watch a competitor pick him up to help their bench…Brooks has been hot, and I do like him, but I think there is still time to try to get Norton going, and if he doesn’t produce by the stretch run, then Brooks will have his chance again…Same for KJ…If he does get hot late like he consistently has in years past, he will be great off the bench and in platoon…
Mrs. Chanandler Bong
July 23rd, 2009
1:14 pm
I don’t want Greg Norton to go because then I won’t have anyone to hate.
Juan
July 23rd, 2009
1:15 pm
Another walk, eh… why so many walks for K-man in US of A?
Joey
July 23rd, 2009
1:17 pm
I cannot believe Kelly Johnson is back in the major leagues. Cox is clueless. Even Chipper talked about getting rid of the “outs” in the lineup, (outs – as in plural) so he wasn’t just talking about Francouer. Does Cox know anything about chemistry. Brooks Conrad played great on offense and defense and fired the rest of the team over and over. Y’all watch how this great run falls apart now with KJ back in the dugout.
Jorge
July 23rd, 2009
1:17 pm
Norton has had 45 opportunities. He’s delivered in 5 of them. Keeping him around b/c of his success last year (with his .246 average) is like keeping JF b/c he was awesome in 2005.
jay
July 23rd, 2009
1:17 pm
Mark – its not your fault that mark wholers decided to throw a changeup for some inexplicable reason… Nobody could have seen that coming – except Leyritz
Bama Aaron
July 23rd, 2009
1:18 pm
I concur Mrs Bong… I was also thinking Huddy would make a good setup man.
Juan
July 23rd, 2009
1:18 pm
Why did it take so long to get to that ball?
Juan
July 23rd, 2009
1:19 pm
Silly ball boy.
JL Burke
July 23rd, 2009
1:20 pm
Jeremiah,
Last year Norton hit .262 with 7 homers in 187 at-bats. That was okay, but not “one of the best” PH in the majors. He’s had enough chances this year and it’s not working.
The_Superhoo
July 23rd, 2009
1:20 pm
Not a great start for KK….
Craig "Speedy" Ehlo
July 23rd, 2009
1:20 pm
4 batters and 1 swinging strike…that’s not a good sign.
Bama Aaron
July 23rd, 2009
1:20 pm
well Kenshin is not off to the greatest start eh?
Scott
July 23rd, 2009
1:21 pm
Mark,
stop making bombastic predictions after good/bad 8 game stretches plz k thx
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
1:22 pm
I still have it, ladies and gentlemen. Giants lead 1-0 on a RBI double by Pablo Sandoval that crossed the third-base bag and bounced funny off the jutting-out part of the seats beyond third base. Almost nailed the ball boy, but he jumped out of the way, pulling his chair with him.
A little like some of those Fenway Park doubles you see down the left-field line.
The bigger story: My mojo is in prime form.
Jeremiah
July 23rd, 2009
1:22 pm
45 ab’s but how far spaced out? have you ever tried to hit Major League pitching Jorge? And he is a proven vet, who was great PH for Seattle and us last year…His numbers when he had everyday AB’s in AAA were awesome! 5 hits in 45 ML ab’s does not mean you are not a capable ML player…If that were the case how come the BoSox did not release Ortiz a couple of months ago…Some people really have no idea how hard it is to actually play this game at the ML level…Norton has not had enough frequent ab’s to be considered a dud..plain and simple…BC and his staff obviously know this, although there are also a lot of armchair managers who also think they know more than BC does…WHICH IS RIDICULOUS!!!
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
1:22 pm
Last year, Norton lead the ML with 3 pinch-hit homers, 18 pinch-hit RBIs, and 17 pinch-hit walks. Take that you Greg-haters.
SanFranFan
July 23rd, 2009
1:23 pm
yes! thanks for the update marko keep ‘em coming!
The_Superhoo
July 23rd, 2009
1:23 pm
On espn gametracker his control seems to be lacking
Bama Aaron
July 23rd, 2009
1:24 pm
At least he held them to one, but Mark your Mojo is seriously scary!
Jeremiah
July 23rd, 2009
1:24 pm
JL…As far as Pinch Hitters coming off the bench…Norton was indeed one of the best, if not THE BEST in the majors last year…Look it up GENIUS!!! You do realize that 7 dingers off the bench is PRETTY DARN GOOD don’t you? Oh wait, you really don’t know what you are talking about, so I guess not!
Marc
July 23rd, 2009
1:24 pm
Bad first half of an inning! That’s in! Quickly, someone call Frank Wren and tell him to run down to the dugout, take his shirt off, and start challenging the players to a fist fight!
Scott
July 23rd, 2009
1:25 pm
SF Fan- if you can be on this website, you can also follow the game live on mlb.com
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
1:25 pm
On the replay, it looked like sandoval’s hit did hit the batboy.
Sting 'em Buzz
July 23rd, 2009
1:25 pm
KK walks way too many to be a setup man.
Jeremiah
July 23rd, 2009
1:26 pm
LOL Marc…
The_Superhoo
July 23rd, 2009
1:26 pm
Geez Nate. Get a hit :-/
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
1:27 pm
Joe Simpson sounds like he wants to get rid of me and keep Conrad.
Juan
July 23rd, 2009
1:28 pm
9 pitches.
Bama Aaron
July 23rd, 2009
1:28 pm
well that was quick….3 outs in about 10 pitches
Jeremiah
July 23rd, 2009
1:29 pm
Maybe it’s because you are blogging Greg! You should be paying attention to the game!
You aren’t getting hits because your fingers hurt from so much blogging!
SanFranFan
July 23rd, 2009
1:29 pm
Scott- i can’t get on mlb.com at work
Mrs. Chanandler Bong
July 23rd, 2009
1:30 pm
Mark, I think I speak for everyone here when I say “Leave the Ted NOW.”
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
1:30 pm
Blogging keeps me occupied while I’m waiting for my one possible at bat per game.
Scott
July 23rd, 2009
1:31 pm
SiriusXM is only good for the home games. I wish they’d figure out the value of being able to listen to the same announcers even for games on the road. You get used to a certain style of an announcer and frankly its tough to follow a game called by a stranger.
G Man
July 23rd, 2009
1:31 pm
Hi Mark – long time listener, first time writer (except the time I wrote you years ago at your AOL account = way, way before AJC Digital).
I’m curious about your relationship with Casey Kotchman. Is there a bit of a “Smoltz Situation” going on there?
I only bring this up because, up until a couple of weeks ago, you seemed generally ok with Casey and noted that the Braves had much bigger issues. Recently, though, it seems you get a barb in on the guy whenever you can = even going as far as to say he probably belongs on the bench.
Anyway, just curious. I personally think the guy is a decent player – flawless d, slightly above average doubles hitter – but wondered where the newfound Mark Bradley CKotch knocks were flowing from. Ha ha. Of course, it’s possible you just don’t think he’s very good.
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
1:31 pm
I looked at the replay and couldn’t tell. Maybe it did hit the ballboy. Not his fault, though. He took evasive action.
Travisi Ishikawa leads off the second inning with a single to left. A soft single, though.
Jeremiah
July 23rd, 2009
1:32 pm
Let’s hope it comes with the bases juiced and you can prove all the naysayers wrong!
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
1:34 pm
I might be hitting for KK soon, if he keeps throwing so many pitches.
Panties in a wad
July 23rd, 2009
1:34 pm
KK is out of his league in the MLB. Braves were stupid to sign him for that amount of money. Here’s hoping it doesnt take Hudson too long to get in midseason form.
JL Burke
July 23rd, 2009
1:35 pm
Jeremiah,
I don’t claim to be a “GENIUS,” just a fan with an opinion. Sorry I seem to have upset you.
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
1:35 pm
just found a place for KJ, San Fran’s 2B hitting .185
Panties in a wad
July 23rd, 2009
1:36 pm
And LOL @ DHD for acting like he’s a “insider.”
Jeremiah
July 23rd, 2009
1:36 pm
I don’t understand the Kotchman haters either…Admittedly, I at first called him Casey Crotchman..( I was huge Tex fan, I know, not Casey’s fault)…But…Casey has proven himself to be a good hitter with excellent D…So he does not hit 50 homers a year..He is still a very good player…IMHO..
The_Superhoo
July 23rd, 2009
1:37 pm
Geez, ESPN Gametracker still doesn’t have a pic of D Ross with a Braves hat on…
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
1:37 pm
JL, I forgive you for the error of your ways and I urge Jeremiah to do the same.
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
1:37 pm
Kawakami gets out of the second without further ado.
david
July 23rd, 2009
1:38 pm
Should have cut Norton and Bradley and kept Conrad!
Jeremiah
July 23rd, 2009
1:38 pm
JL…I’m not upset…I just find it comical some of the suggestions on this board are obviously based on very little understanding of baseball…
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
1:39 pm
I’m thinking Barry Zito isn’t going to win 1-0.
And just as I typed those words, Esky curls one around the right-field foul pole. Tied.
Sting 'em Buzz
July 23rd, 2009
1:39 pm
way to go Escobar, homer off the pole
The_Superhoo
July 23rd, 2009
1:39 pm
ESCO!!!
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
1:40 pm
David, I feel the love… perhaps we could trade Chip Caray and Bradley for a player to be named later.
G Man
July 23rd, 2009
1:40 pm
Jeremiah – glad to see I’m not the only one who has used the “Crotchman” moniker before. My buddy tried to get a Casey “Klutchman” nickname going earlier in the year but I think he’ll have to get some big playoff hits before we go that far.
Steven
July 23rd, 2009
1:40 pm
Trade WHO?
Bama Aaron
July 23rd, 2009
1:40 pm
Atta boy Yunel… he’s shown alot more power here recently….
Jfreak
July 23rd, 2009
1:40 pm
The Braves are positioning themselves for some kind of trade. Probably include Gonzo, Johnson, and maybe Norton. I don’t think they are looking for a blockbuster trade but maybe a couple of prospects and a reliever to help sure up the bullpen. Gonzo is really the odd man out right now and Johnson really doesn’t have a place to play. All these guys have had good seasons in the recent past and retain some level of value to other contenders.
Alex
July 23rd, 2009
1:40 pm
Escobar is a beast!
Sting 'em Buzz
July 23rd, 2009
1:40 pm
50 homers, he isn’t going to hit 20 homers.
K.Street
July 23rd, 2009
1:41 pm
Please Braves, don’t trade Escobar and sign him to a long term deal before he becomes a free agent. SS is such a skill position and we really need his bat and arm for the long term
Noah
July 23rd, 2009
1:41 pm
I have NEVER Before heard a writer say a team that is 5.5 games back in JULY can’t makeup the ground. Come on. And your most worried about the starting pitching because of strikeouts, what is that about. They have been automatic.
troutbum4439
July 23rd, 2009
1:42 pm
ESKY BABY!!! Mark, if you have a sec can you give a brief rundown of your career path to writing on the Braves beat. A lot of guys grow up wanting to be ball players (I realized that would never happen after HS) but i have always dreamt of sitting in the press box.
BamaBrave
July 23rd, 2009
1:43 pm
Any radio station out there with the game?
Sting 'em Buzz
July 23rd, 2009
1:43 pm
Noah, high strikeout totals mean high pitch counts and thus more wear on the bullpen.
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
1:43 pm
Jfreak, I don’t think anyone would take me and my bat.
phar71
July 23rd, 2009
1:43 pm
Is there anywhere to watch the game online?
Sting 'em Buzz
July 23rd, 2009
1:43 pm
96.1 FM
JL Burke
July 23rd, 2009
1:43 pm
Jeremiah,
I don’t think everyone who wants Norton off the team has “no understanding of baseball.” Can’t reasonable people who know baseball disagree about Norton? Do you think every manager and GM would keep him on the team?
And to answer your question, 7 homers off the bench is good. This year, it’s just not working. He’s 37 years old. Maybe time has caught up to him.
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
1:43 pm
Only Bobby because I feel the love with him.
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
1:43 pm
I think we should trade Yunel while he has value
Tad
July 23rd, 2009
1:43 pm
Perhaps we should send the entire team to Children’s Hospital! Way to go, Yunel!
T-Town Dawg
July 23rd, 2009
1:44 pm
Well, Kelly’s back with the big club. Bobby will have him starting at 2nd base by Monday, if not sooner. Prado goes 0-4 and he is back to a platoon player. I bet Kelly starts against the next right hander we face because Cox loves to play the lefty vs righty game. Thing is, Kelly hits lefties better than righties.
Mrs. Chanandler Bong
July 23rd, 2009
1:44 pm
MB, do you know where David Ross went to high school? I ask simply because he was born in a SMALL Georgia town (one I unfortunately have experience with) and there’s no way he couldn’t played competitive ball there. I’m guessing he went somewhere in Tallahassee? I know he finished up college a Gator.
JEZ
July 23rd, 2009
1:44 pm
I’m going to affectionately refer to ESCO now as the FREAK…cause that’s the way he’s playing!!!
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
1:45 pm
Diaz was safe.
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
1:45 pm
Bobby never runs but steals Diaz, are you kiddin me
Brooks Conrad | All Days Long
July 23rd, 2009
1:46 pm
[...] Live from the ballpark: The Braves test Bradley's mojo! | Mark Bradley By Mark Bradley And according to esteemed colleague David O'Brien, the Braves have recalled Kelly Johnson and sent Brooks Conrad to Gwinnett. And Bobby Cox has named Johnson his starting second baseman for every game the rest of this century. … Mark Bradley – http://blogs.ajc.com/mark-bradley-blog/ [...]
Scott
July 23rd, 2009
1:46 pm
Greg Norton is hitting .111 in 45 ab’s with a .286 obp.
your arguments are indefensible.
Alex
July 23rd, 2009
1:46 pm
Escobar and Prado… tell me a better middle infield of late… lets go!
Doug B
July 23rd, 2009
1:46 pm
What does Kelly Johnson have that Conrad does not? I don’t get it. Trade KJ for some used warm up balls so we can use the money on another reliever. BRING BACK CONRAD!!!!
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
1:48 pm
Scott – you try hitting .111 in the majors off the bench.
Jeremiah
July 23rd, 2009
1:48 pm
Wait to go Esky…I’m at work and relying on the blog and mlb.com for game highlights..Thanks all for the updates…
JL…Maybe I’m too harsh..I should not get sooo irritated when people don’t agree with me..but I do.. LMAO
BamaBrave
July 23rd, 2009
1:48 pm
Bank Walker, trading Yunel is absolutely crazy!!!!!
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
1:49 pm
KK is all over the place, could be a long day except for the fact that SF has a .192 team batting average
Chris
July 23rd, 2009
1:49 pm
The strike zone must be HUGE in Japan. In KKs defense though, the strike zone this year has been the size of a postage stamp more often than not.
Scott
July 23rd, 2009
1:49 pm
there are many, many other ballplayers who could achieve better, Greg
JL Burke
July 23rd, 2009
1:50 pm
Jeremiah, Fair enough.
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
1:50 pm
Frank Wren looks so cool in his candy stripper shirt.
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
1:50 pm
Bama, here in Georgia we call that sarcasm
Jeremiah
July 23rd, 2009
1:51 pm
Defending Norton is in “indefensible” that is ridiculous…Again, those opptys were few and far between…He is a veteran, with proven PH success…If he gets more opptys and continues to stink it up, then I will be convinced…But I agree with BC..it is way to early to give up on him…It is only JULY 23!!
MatthewH
July 23rd, 2009
1:51 pm
MB- Are you trying to see how closely we read your blog? “Photo courtesy of Rowland’s Office”? Is that serious or just an attempt to get us to think about Braves of the ’80’s?
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
1:52 pm
Finally, I think that took his pitch count above 70
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
1:53 pm
My career path, such as it was: Started at the Lexington Herald-Leader covering high schools in 1978, covered the University of Kentucky from 1980 through 1982, became a columnist in 1983, left the Herald for the AJC in 1984. Started off writing features here, became a full-time columnist in 1987, been doing that ever since.
And David Ross, according to the Braves’ media guide, went to Florida High in Tallahassee.
Stephen
July 23rd, 2009
1:53 pm
Anyone have a link where I can listen to the game online?
Noah
July 23rd, 2009
1:54 pm
Sting ‘em Buzz –Exactly, then why would he complain they don’t strike out enough hitters, who cares when your starters are giving up 1 run, 2 runs a game.
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
1:54 pm
Another walk for KK.
Jeremiah
July 23rd, 2009
1:54 pm
Scott…You are wrong about Norton…he needs more opptys…those 45 ab’s were few and far between…he is proven vet…There is still plenty of time to see if he can find his groove…
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
1:54 pm
I just looked over at Frank Wren. He’s on the phone. Asking about Pujols.
Kawakami pitch count is at 60. Just walked Sandoval with two out in the third.
Jeremiah
July 23rd, 2009
1:55 pm
Right Mark…If St. Louis got rid of Pujols the fans would burn down their stadium!
Mrs. Chanandler Bong
July 23rd, 2009
1:55 pm
Thanks, MB. You are once again in good standing with me.
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
1:55 pm
Rowland Office 72,74-79
troutbum4439
July 23rd, 2009
1:56 pm
Thanks MB, you may not agree but i’d rank y’all and the play-by-play guys at the top of my “fantasy jobs” list. I will do my best not to date you too much but i was born the year you started writing for the AJC.
On a different note do you guys think Bobby will hang around after this year. I know there are a good few of you out there that doubt his abilities but I personally see him as a perennial MVP for the Bravos.
Noah
July 23rd, 2009
1:56 pm
Stephan…you can no longer listen to MLB games online without paying..I think its $15/yr for radio. It sucks for those of us who relocated here and want to listen to our favorite hall of fame announcers..in my case Dave Niehaus in Seattle. The ones we grow up with just are better then the rest, just like it was here with Skip Carey.
The_Superhoo
July 23rd, 2009
1:56 pm
~60 pitches thru 3 innings…
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
1:56 pm
If you going to walk someone, Sandoval’s not a bad choice. I think he’s underrated – kind of like me.
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
1:57 pm
Doing the Kiss Cam thing between innings. Playing “Kiss You All Over” by Exile. Believe it or not, when I started at the Herald-Leader that song was huge in Lexington — the band, of whom you’ve since never heard, was from Lexington, Ky.
phar71
July 23rd, 2009
1:57 pm
I heard one of the annoucers say yesterday that Bobby wanted to get Medlen in some more meaningful situations…Should have a shot here pretty soon.
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
1:58 pm
Nice catch by Schuerholz. Church’s homer stolen.
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
1:58 pm
63 pitches in 3 innings, sounds like the bullpen is getting the day off
Bama Aaron
July 23rd, 2009
1:58 pm
LOL.. ok Mark that was funny.
Pitch counts already at 60…looks like we’ll see alot of the pen today.
And guys don’t have a cow about KJ being back up…that was expected. Now he can audition for other teams before the deadline…but keeping Norton instead of Conrad is still stupid.
phar71
July 23rd, 2009
1:59 pm
I am watching this on gamecast, how close was the church hit to going out?
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
1:59 pm
Great catch by Nate Schierholtz (no relation) in right field. I thought Church had hit a home run, but Nate S. made a leaping stab, as we say in the trade, at the wall.
Jeremiah
July 23rd, 2009
1:59 pm
I was at a game in Texas a month or so ago…They do the “Flex Cam” between innings where people get on cam and flex their biceps…I thought it was interesting, but Kiss-Cam has funnier moments…
MatthewH
July 23rd, 2009
1:59 pm
Sorry, Bank Walker- I knew when I I typed that it didn’t seem right.
troutbum4439
July 23rd, 2009
1:59 pm
Noah…as baseball fans we’ll continue to remember our favorite play by play annoucners just like our favorite players (Skip and Dale Murphy for me). I can remember getting sent to bed as a kid before braves games were over and hiding my radio under my pillow to hear Skip, Don, Pete, and Joe call games…especially in October,
Scott
July 23rd, 2009
1:59 pm
Proven vet? he’s hit above .267 once in his career. he provides little value to this organization
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
1:59 pm
MB I think Exile is actually a country act now with a little bit of success. I’m just saying
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
2:00 pm
I just want it to be known that I share my batting average with KK.
Bama Aaron
July 23rd, 2009
2:00 pm
Mark how close to being a HR was Church’s out? Gamecast is showing it right at the wall…
The_Superhoo
July 23rd, 2009
2:01 pm
Come on Natey. Make em pay for walking the pitcher!
phar71
July 23rd, 2009
2:01 pm
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
1:59 pm
Great catch by Nate Schierholtz (no relation) in right field. I thought Church had hit a home run, but Nate S. made a leaping stab, as we say in the trade, at the wall.
Link Report this comment
Bama Aaron
July 23rd, 2009
2:01 pm
ok…saw your answer… I was typing as you were making your post…this chat thing can lag sometimes…
MiltonDawg
July 23rd, 2009
2:01 pm
Does anybody know what Norton was hitting in Gwinnett before getting called up? Was it better than KJ’s? I can understand calling up KJ after this past week or so, but i liked the little guy Conrad. He gave us speed and a decent bat. The last AB i remember for Norton was a bases-loaded strikout against…was it CO?
Craig "Speedy" Ehlo
July 23rd, 2009
2:01 pm
Not to add any fuel to the fire, but did anyone notice that KAWAKAMI has the same Avg. as Norton???
The following Braves players have a current average lower than Greg Norton (only those with ABs are listed):
Vazquez (36 Ab)
Acosta (1)
Carlyle (2)
Bennett (2)
Moylan (1)
James Parr (1)
Kris Medlen (11)
In that list, Vazquez is the only one with a hit.
Noah
July 23rd, 2009
2:02 pm
Troutbum…so true. And it doesn’t matter about the game, they are just great storytellers you want to hear them no matter what. Over the years was there ever a CD or anything put out on Skip Carey and the braves?
In Seattle they put one out after the incredible 95 run and again after the 1st 25 years…and since they have had their HOF announcer from day 1 until today all the best highlights are done by him, great stuff.
Mrs. Chanandler Bong
July 23rd, 2009
2:02 pm
Greg Norton, are you even in the dugout? Or are you hanging out with Mark Bradley doing a sort of tag-team live blog?
TJ
July 23rd, 2009
2:03 pm
Hey MB, I did see Wren on the phone…are there any moves you see the Braves making before the deadline?
Chris
July 23rd, 2009
2:03 pm
Well, Nate is a career .260 hitter.
The_Superhoo
July 23rd, 2009
2:03 pm
God Nate! Come ON!
We need him to wake up NOW
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
2:03 pm
Matthew H., you of all people should know I never kid. Rowland’s Office is a Braves-related blog, and a fine one.
Top of the fourth. Prado hit into a DP. Probably feeling the heat from KJ.
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
2:04 pm
Not Prado on the DP. Sorry. McLouth.
Chris
July 23rd, 2009
2:04 pm
It was Nate.
Ryan
July 23rd, 2009
2:05 pm
What is the score?
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
2:05 pm
The bases load strikeout was against the Mets, Milton. I already noticed my average and KK’s, Speedy. I hit .324 at Gwinett with 10 RBI.
david
July 23rd, 2009
2:05 pm
Bradley and his co-writers have been trying to have escobar traded and that failed,so now he defends norton.I up my trade to norton,bradley,bennett,anderson and a bag of used balls!
The_Superhoo
July 23rd, 2009
2:05 pm
McLouth hit into that DP…not Prado?
BravesFan79
July 23rd, 2009
2:05 pm
Keep Kaz in place of Gonzo?? I think Gonzo is highly underappreciated around here! Remember he once went 30-40 something innings without giving up a run in relief. I think its important to keep Gonzo AND Soriano……. if anything trade Kaz or Lowe to make room for Hudson.
Jeremiah
July 23rd, 2009
2:06 pm
Scott…Do you even know how to value a good pinch hitter from the bench? Leyritz never had crazy stats either, but everyone sure remebers his name…That is how I see that Norton can potentially benefit us down the stretch..He is a proven VETERAN PINCH HITTER! He does not have to have gawdy numbers in order to contribute, but he has been successful being a PH in this league…It is too early to give up on him, his opptys have been few and far between and there is simply time to see if he can still help us…No need to rush, release him, have the phillies or another contender pick him up…and then have him punish us in the playoffs…It is too early for that!
troutbum4439
July 23rd, 2009
2:06 pm
I have never seen a Skip tribute CD but i’d get in line to buy one. I could recite some of his more famous calls from heart. Sometimes Chip will sounds EXACTLY like him…so much so that its eerie. He’s great too.
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
2:06 pm
You mean McClouth
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
2:07 pm
Speaking of the Giants, the speculation is that they’ll be the team to trade for Matt Holliday. And they could use him. They’re 15th among 16 NL teams in runs and homers. They are, however, second in ERA, which is why they have a winning record. They’re like the Braves, only more so.
Ishikawa with another hit.
The_Superhoo
July 23rd, 2009
2:07 pm
At this rate, I’d be glad to see KK make it through 5 innings…71 thru 3.2
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
2:07 pm
McLouth
troutbum4439
July 23rd, 2009
2:08 pm
getting in line…reminds me of a joke that we heard while in P.V. Mexico earlier this year. We were at a tequila factory and the guy got done giving us the tour and said the had bottle for purchase. He wanted to make sure he got all of the $ up front and made sure that he told us you could only by the said tequila on the mexican internet….IN-LINE….we almost died from laughter
Sting 'em Buzz
July 23rd, 2009
2:08 pm
KK would give Harry Doyle fits
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
2:08 pm
Oh, and somebody mentioned a while back that Leyritz hit a Wohlers changeup. I could’ve sworn it was a slider.
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
2:08 pm
When Bradley defend me… last I heard he just said I was a good singer.
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
2:09 pm
did
Sting 'em Buzz
July 23rd, 2009
2:09 pm
Hudson isn’t going to be worth a flip this year, so I wouldn’t trade Lowe to make room for Huddy.
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
2:10 pm
KJ batted .308 with 3 HR. 7 RBI’s in one game.
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
2:10 pm
Kawakami: 77 pitches through four. He’s OK. Except for the weird double, he’d be pitching a shutout.
BamaBrave
July 23rd, 2009
2:10 pm
Minnesota says they need IF help, why couldn’t we trade KJ and GA for Jason Kubel maybe?
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
2:10 pm
Slider
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
2:11 pm
Wifi in the dugout. Serenading my teammates.
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
2:12 pm
Bama, I think Garret only helps us. His average is creeping up as noted on MLB.com earlier this week.
Noah
July 23rd, 2009
2:12 pm
Troutbum…really ashame the Braves haven’t put something out on their glory years. I have a few CD’s + videos from the Seattle years.
It would be a great item for their stores, especially now that Maddux is in their HOF and Carey is no longer with us. I’m really surprised they haven’t done it. I guess in Seattle the radio voice became so big in 1995 that ESPN Sportscenter was playing his audio as they showed the playoff highlights that his name became so big everyone wanted an item like that.
BamaBrave
July 23rd, 2009
2:12 pm
Bank, I know what being sarcastic is, I thought you were serious though, there have been alot of people saying trade him but I think people are changing their minds these days, thank goodness.
Cheese
July 23rd, 2009
2:13 pm
MLB Trade Rumors put a little article up saying the Pirates had another offer for LaRoche, from a team willing to trade a major league player, and mediocre minor league player as long as the pirates took on the salary…Maybe braves…Kotchman and someone???
The_Superhoo
July 23rd, 2009
2:13 pm
Marteeeeen with the BB in front of the meat!
Lars Taint
July 23rd, 2009
2:13 pm
Does everyone seriously not understand why Conrad was sent down over Norton? You need back ups for every position. If Norton is sent down, we have no back up at 1B. Why have Prado, KJ, and Conrad all competing for time at 2B? You are just wasting roster spots. I would imagine that Norton will get sent down when Infante comes back since he can also play 1B if needed. It really drives me crazy when people call Wren and Bobby stupid when they have no clue what they are talking about.
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
2:14 pm
SF needs Kelly Johnson. They would improve by .050 points over Downs
Scott
July 23rd, 2009
2:14 pm
well, i know that a 37 year old with little speed, power, or defensive ability who’s currently hitting .111 isn’t a very valuable asset.
you can’t use the fact that he’s been on the bench as an excuse for his horrendous batting avg. but, THAT’S HIS ROLE : HITTING FROM THE BENCH!!! if he can’t do that, then what’s his value?
BamaBrave
July 23rd, 2009
2:14 pm
GA is doing better and he is helping us but Kubel is a good hitter that could be around for more than this year.
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
2:15 pm
Not so sudden burst of inspiration: Know how the right-field pole in Fenway is called the Pesky Pole? After Escobar’s second-inning home run, we should call the RF foul pole here the Esky Pole.
He’s up now, by the way. Prado, whom I maliciously accused of hitting into a DP last inning, walked to lead off the fourth. Chipper struck out looking and wasn’t happy.
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
2:17 pm
I can’t imagine the Braves having a heated interest in Adam LaRoche.
Esky walks. Two on, one out. Braves are going to score here.
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
2:17 pm
Bama, yea, taking a jab at those folks
jay
July 23rd, 2009
2:17 pm
You are right – it was a slider. The point was, it was an off-speed pitch.
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
2:17 pm
Lars, no offense – but Prado can move over and cover 1st as needed, so that’s no reason to keep me around. Guess it’s just my singing voice.
BamaBrave
July 23rd, 2009
2:17 pm
Lars, Prado obviously plays first also, and better than norton at that. That solves that issue. Should’ve kept Conrad I agree.
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
2:18 pm
I really am a jinx. Diaz hits a ball that would have been a double but just misses the line.
Scott
July 23rd, 2009
2:18 pm
Norton is this year’s Corky Miller
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
2:19 pm
Diaz whiffs. Actually, he stands and looks. Two out, Ross at the dish.
Sting 'em Buzz
July 23rd, 2009
2:19 pm
I’m betting Bobby gets tossed today.
The_Superhoo
July 23rd, 2009
2:19 pm
The K strike for diaz looked rather inside on gametracker…
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
2:20 pm
Frankly, I’m just not a very competent fielder, Lars. But wish Bradley would quit jinxing us. Diaz struck out with the bat on his shoulders after his bold prediction.
MiltonDawg
July 23rd, 2009
2:20 pm
Scott- Norton is this year’s Corky Miller- exactly but 85lbs lighter!!
Tim Tebow
July 23rd, 2009
2:20 pm
“I am saving myself for marriage” – from SEC media days in Birmingham.
MiltonDawg
July 23rd, 2009
2:21 pm
should we try the reverse psychology thing? Ok..Kotchman will strikeout
The_Superhoo
July 23rd, 2009
2:21 pm
Right Tebow. You’re worshipped like the second coming and you’re not gettin tail at Florida? Sure.
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
2:23 pm
hey Corky is batting almost 100 points higher than me with the ChiSox.
Bama Aaron
July 23rd, 2009
2:23 pm
Yeah Britney saved herself for marriage too…..keep that story up Tim
Wally Butts
July 23rd, 2009
2:23 pm
Wohlers had 2 pitches…fastball and slider that he threw at different speeds more of a slurve…no changeup…
Sting 'em Buzz
July 23rd, 2009
2:24 pm
come on Kotchman, crank one
BamaBrave
July 23rd, 2009
2:24 pm
C’mon Kotch slap one in the hole!
Bobby Cox
July 23rd, 2009
2:25 pm
Nordy get off the internet and get your tail down to the cage, we’re gonna need you shortly
Jeremiah
July 23rd, 2009
2:25 pm
Lars is right, Scott is WAY WRONG…Scott obviously thinks it’s easy to hiy major league pitching..
Sting 'em Buzz
July 23rd, 2009
2:26 pm
just great, can’t capitalize on three walks in an inning
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
2:26 pm
Thanks, Bobby… see folks, I’m not the only one who strikes out the bases loaded! Thanks, Casey!!
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
2:26 pm
Pretty strange inning. No runs, six men up, nobody put the ball in play. Kotchman indeed struck out with the sacks jammed, as we say.
The_Superhoo
July 23rd, 2009
2:26 pm
Ugh bases walked loaded, 2 questionable Ks looking and we don’t get a run
Bama Aaron
July 23rd, 2009
2:27 pm
that was ugly…3 walks and 3 strike outs…. somebody just put the ball in play…
Sting 'em Buzz
July 23rd, 2009
2:27 pm
making contact would have worked too
Scott
July 23rd, 2009
2:27 pm
i never said it was easy, i never said that i could do it myself. i only said to that others could probably do it much better than greg norton
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
2:28 pm
and for the record, Corky had 60 ABs last year to prove himself. I have at least 15 more coming to me.
A. Teesman
July 23rd, 2009
2:28 pm
Please, please, please Braves, break the Bradley jinx.
The_Superhoo
July 23rd, 2009
2:29 pm
Ughhhh a hit to the pitcher??
osama
July 23rd, 2009
2:30 pm
i luv the high center-field camera view from directly over the pitcher’s head on Sportssouth. Baseball broadcasts in general should try to make that the standard camera view.
ATCparrot9
July 23rd, 2009
2:30 pm
shocker.
The_Superhoo
July 23rd, 2009
2:31 pm
No outs, a hit to the pitcher, and a walk. Come ON locate!
Geoff
July 23rd, 2009
2:32 pm
Once again, Kenshin showing he cant put away batters with his pitch count now at 90 with 2 men on base now.
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
2:33 pm
That was the 18th hit of Zito’s career. All singles. And now Randy Winn walks. Kenshin at 87 pitches with nobody down in the fifth. Though somebody just got up in the Braves bullpen. Boone Logan.
Chris
July 23rd, 2009
2:33 pm
Joke
Scott
July 23rd, 2009
2:33 pm
the point of a bench player is to come in and provide some value– there aren’t many “opportunities” because the player comes off the bench (what is so hard to understand with this?) — now, whether it’s getting on base, providing good defense, or speed on the basepaths, i think a reserve should be able to provide the team some form of late-inning relief. Norton does neither of these things well.
Noah
July 23rd, 2009
2:33 pm
Geoff…but once again KK is in the 5th and has given up only 1 run. I know alot of teams that will take that out of what is essentially your 5th starter. Heck, on the Phillies that would make him a #2 or #3 guy.
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
2:34 pm
Just showing it’s not only the Braves who have lousy at-bats … Fred Lewis flies to center (breaks his bat) with two on and nobody out. Way not to move those runners into scoring position.
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
2:35 pm
Big at-bat here. Sandoval against Kawakami.
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
2:35 pm
I appreciate your confidence, Scott. Fortunately, Bobby loves me, so I’m not going anywhere.
Sandoval… scary guy to have up with 2 on.
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
2:35 pm
But alas, he grounds into a fielder’s choice.
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
2:36 pm
Kawakami gets Sandoval to tap to the mound. Good pitching there. One out to get out of this. Bengie Molina the hitter.
The_Superhoo
July 23rd, 2009
2:36 pm
Just 1 more guy KK. You can do it!
Scott
July 23rd, 2009
2:37 pm
MARK – anyone in the ‘pen??
K
July 23rd, 2009
2:37 pm
Can’t see the game. Is the home plate umpire being consistent with his strike zone?
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
2:37 pm
Nice running catch by Church ends the inning. Kawakami at 97 pitches. Probably one more inning, I’m thinking.
Not a bad outfielder, that Ryan Church.
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
2:38 pm
Logan was up, Scott. But he sat down at inning’s end.
The_Superhoo
July 23rd, 2009
2:38 pm
Phew quite a Houdini act there. Way to come thru KK/Church!
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
2:39 pm
You know, it’s hard for me to tell. From the press box, I mainly see the umpire’s back. But Cox hasn’t been ejected yet, if that’s an indication.
Geoff
July 23rd, 2009
2:40 pm
Noah… while i agree 100% with your comment about the 5th starter thing… Mark Bradley more less said the same thing right after me… out Bullpen gets taxed when he throws… averging 7 pitchers per batter just isnt going to cut it for the marathon season the Braves still have left.
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
2:40 pm
1 more inning for a quality start
david
July 23rd, 2009
2:41 pm
I almost had a trade,but they wanted Bradley taken out of the deal,they wanted Boog instead!
Bama Aaron
July 23rd, 2009
2:42 pm
One more inning? I’m hoping we see Boone Logan in the 6th….
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
2:42 pm
Showing yet again I know nothing about anything, Diory Hernandez pinch-hits for Kawakami. And pops up. Logan will start the sixth.
K
July 23rd, 2009
2:42 pm
I’m seeing it on GameCast and there’s been several Strike(looking)s. I don’t expect him to argue balls and strikes unless it’s close and late in the game.
Scott
July 23rd, 2009
2:42 pm
hahaha PUT IN NORTON!!!
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
2:42 pm
2 balls to DH looked like strikes
Noah
July 23rd, 2009
2:43 pm
Wish Bobby would have left KK in one more inning or at least pinch hit with someone else then Diory.
Scott
July 23rd, 2009
2:43 pm
stong inning fellas
Bama Aaron
July 23rd, 2009
2:43 pm
And that at bat brought up another question….don’t we have anyone on the farm that can be a back-up for SS and actually be able to hit more than .114? Hernandez is terrible at the plate…
squawks mcgrew
July 23rd, 2009
2:44 pm
What idiot came up with the quality start parameters? It produces a 4.50 ERA. How is that quality? That should get you demoted.
Mrs. Chanandler Bong
July 23rd, 2009
2:44 pm
Hey word on the street is Greg Norton will be leading “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” during the middle of the 7th.
Scott
July 23rd, 2009
2:44 pm
Bama– i think just waiting for Infante… MARK – any timeline for his return?
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
2:44 pm
I could have done as well as Diory there.
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
2:45 pm
Give them John S instead of Boog S.
Cutler
July 23rd, 2009
2:45 pm
Why send Conrad down?? I don’t understand bringing KJ back although I know he’s out of option. However, if we had to do it, why not send down Diory instead. Escobar has a stronghold on short and we have no use for diory. I am sure Conrad could handle third or short if needed or prado could move to short for a game or 2 if escobar was hurt or needed a break. Diory Hernandez is a sure out every time he comes up to the plate. Sometimes I just can’t understand the moves this team makes.
I don’t even want to comment on Norton.
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
2:46 pm
Hey… that Hernandez really stinks. We should option him back when Infante returns.
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
2:46 pm
Bama, the answer is no, the farm is empty at SS for a while
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
2:46 pm
Whoops. Wrong lefthander. O’Flaherty in. Maybe I should just shut up and watch the game.
Josh
July 23rd, 2009
2:46 pm
Mark, in all seriousness, why do you think the Braves are hanging on to Norton? He played well in AAA, but by all indications, he’s been a extremely ineffective player for a long time now. He’s a veteran player as well, so it’s not like we’re waiting on him to come around. I guess it’s because he’s such a well-liked guy?
Bama Aaron
July 23rd, 2009
2:47 pm
Yeah you’re right Scott, but Diory is like giving up an out every time you send him up there. Just frustrating…
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
2:48 pm
Who is pitching, gameday say O’flatley. Hey he was pretty good in Lord of the Dance
Jeremiah
July 23rd, 2009
2:48 pm
Scott…You’re hopeless…There is no pleasing you, nor can I make you understand the reason for keeping Norton…You don’t understand baseball…Once again, I will take the decision making of a HOF Manager like BC, who chose to keep Norton…He obviously knows what he’s doing…
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
2:49 pm
I just asked DOB for the official word on Infante. He says he’s a ways off — August at the earliest. And DOB knows. He does a great job, especially for a guy from KU.
NY Frenchy
July 23rd, 2009
2:49 pm
Hey Lars, Prado is the other first baseman you dummy, Conrad & Norton are both switch hitters, one can run the other is slow, one is hitting over .300, the other is hitting over .100, one busts his azz & the other is just old, slow, & done so guess what , Booby keeps the wrong player again, of course we all knew he would cause he’s loyal even if you cant hit your weight, saw it coming but its still sad. Lars if you think Norton is a better player than Brooksie then dont whine when his average dips below .100 again, he was hitting .098 LMAO
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
2:51 pm
Hope this doesn’t go extra frames if we are using righties vs righties in the 6th
david
July 23rd, 2009
2:51 pm
They will only take Boog and a bag of new balls!
ghostwriter
July 23rd, 2009
2:52 pm
MB:
Is there any threat that KJ will start at 2B over Prado? Even if Prado struggles for a bit?
Scott
July 23rd, 2009
2:52 pm
Jeremiah – your arguments thus far have been “he’s a veteran so he’ll eventually hit,” “he’s not getting enough chances” (although any bench player won’t have many chances), and “scott thinks it’s easy to hit big league pitching”… neither of which is a cogent argument supporting the idea that Greg Norton provides value for the team this year.
Bama Aaron
July 23rd, 2009
2:53 pm
Agreed Bank… can’t believe Cox thinks he has to do that all the time. If a reliever comes in throwing strikes and getting outs leave his butt in there…
Jeremiah
July 23rd, 2009
2:53 pm
Unbelieveable the number of idiot BC bashers on here! If you morons could do better why are you not managing in the bigs?
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
2:53 pm
Frenchy, I feel the love. Thanks, man. You make a good case for why I should be gone. Honestly, I didn’t think I would make it back off the DL.
phar71
July 23rd, 2009
2:53 pm
I think Medlen will go until the his turn to bat. We should be ok.
Tami
July 23rd, 2009
2:53 pm
I agree with Panties In A Wad!
Noah
July 23rd, 2009
2:53 pm
Could have PH McCann or Anderson if you didnt mind using them. Of course I don’t know who is the emergency catcher then if there is an injury and McCann has already been used.
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
2:54 pm
Jeremiah, take it easy, man. COX isn’t always right.
Jeremiah
July 23rd, 2009
2:54 pm
You are wrong SCOTT!! Go further back, I have made plenty of good arguments as to why Bobby kept Norton, You and a lot of like minded idiots, actually think you are smarter about baseball than BC, which you are obviously NOT!
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
2:54 pm
I think he does that so he has to use Moylan in the 7th. He wants to see if his arm will explode from over use
The_Superhoo
July 23rd, 2009
2:55 pm
BUNT SINGLE?? Ugh
Jeremiah
July 23rd, 2009
2:55 pm
Not always GN, but like I’ve said before, he has forgotten more about baseball than these armchair managers on this board!
DevilInLaw
July 23rd, 2009
2:55 pm
I love going to Medlen there. We need to get him involved in tight and winning games. He could be a huge key down the stretch, especially if Moylan continues to suck.
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
2:56 pm
Kind of weird. Bochy let Zito hit for himself with two on and two out. And Zito struck out against Medlen.
Noah
July 23rd, 2009
2:56 pm
My concern with O’flaherty and leaving him in there is his workload. He has already pitched 50 games. Braves could really use another decent reliever via trade..or maybe Acosta will turn into another reliable arm..he has looked good.
Scott
July 23rd, 2009
2:56 pm
Jeremiah, just because someone doesn’t actively participte in a profession doesn’t preculde that person from criticizing another. that’s a poor, tired argument.
Chris
July 23rd, 2009
2:57 pm
Remember when Bochy pitch hit for Sanchez, the flood gates opened.
Mrs. Chanandler Bong
July 23rd, 2009
2:57 pm
Mark, you could say he “BOCH-ed” that play. AH HAHAHAHAHAHAHA.
phar71
July 23rd, 2009
2:57 pm
Alright this is our inning! Lets go Bats
BamaBrave
July 23rd, 2009
2:57 pm
I like seeing Medlen in there in a tight spot. He should be getting used a little more often.
DevilInLaw
July 23rd, 2009
2:58 pm
Bochy let Zito hit for himself because Bochy’s bullpen has pitched way too much during this road trip (and over the last three games). He needs to steal one more inning out of Zito.
Jeremiah
July 23rd, 2009
2:59 pm
It should preclude those who obviously are idiots when it comes to managing a baseball team, such as yourself!
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
2:59 pm
Martin lead off walk.
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
2:59 pm
Oh, there’s always a chance, GhostWriter. And I’d imagine if Prado goes 0-for-60 some folks on here might be calling for Kelly.
Scott
July 23rd, 2009
2:59 pm
in other words, just because I haven’t tried to hit a curveball since 7th grade doesn’t mean that i can’t criticize a player who’s job it is to get base hits and fails miserably to do so (40 times out of 45 at bats, to be specific)
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
2:59 pm
jeremiah, why are people idiots just b/c they don’t think it’s a good idea to keep me on the roster? I even wonder myself.
Javy Vazquez/Lopez
July 23rd, 2009
3:00 pm
Jeremiah, are you a bullfrog or just a Booby Cocks azz kisser??? Let me say it clearly so your Donkey azz can understand, a .114 average is a joke, I dont care if his name is Norotn or Mickey Mantle, he sux & should have been released & kept Brooksie, hes alot better player that hustles all out & he has a coll name! Go Bravos
Bama Aaron
July 23rd, 2009
3:00 pm
Jeremiah in case you haven’t noticed this is a running blog. It is for opinions. You’re free to express yours, but making yourself look like an idiot yelling at others for theirs.
Also just because I didn’t have the breaks to become a big league manager doesn’t mean I don’t know baseball. Frankly if given the chance I fully believe I could handle a pitching staff better than BC. It’s the one part of managing I think he does poorly.
Jeremiah
July 23rd, 2009
3:00 pm
Forget it Scott, I am not responding to idiots anymore…You sir, are a JACK-A$$
Scott
July 23rd, 2009
3:00 pm
and i’ve never said a word about Bobby Cox in this entire thread, don’t know where you are getting that
Scott
July 23rd, 2009
3:01 pm
that’s a mature response.
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
3:01 pm
I agree with Jeremiah, Bobby Cox has forgotten more about baseball.
John
July 23rd, 2009
3:01 pm
Mark, help me out with an arguement I am having at work with a dumb woman. She says that Bobby wants to move Chipper to 1st. Please tell her that is the dumbest statement ever made and as long as Chipper is a Brave he will be at 3rd, unless for some crazy reason he is needed in the outfeild which is unlikely.
Jeremiah
July 23rd, 2009
3:02 pm
Sure you could bama, WTF ever! Keep telling yourself that! It takes a lot of nerve to say you could do anything to do with baseball as well as HOFamer BC! Ridiculous!
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
3:02 pm
Not much of a day for Chipper. 0-for-3. Escobar up with Prado on first, one out.
Jeremiah
July 23rd, 2009
3:03 pm
I could see Chipper at first, but not for another couple of years…As he gets older..
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
3:04 pm
John, moving Chipper to 1st has been discussed. There was talk of acquiring old Scott Rolen earlier in the week. Plus, with Chipper having increased errors, some think 1st might be a good place to put him.
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
3:04 pm
so may you should apologize to the dumb woman for only saying what some professional sports writers are saying.
Jeremiah
July 23rd, 2009
3:05 pm
Thanks, I like being mature. Truth be told, it is the BC bashers that make me this way…I simply can’t understand why so many hate such a good manager and for absolutely ridiculous reasons…Atlanta has been so lucky to have BC all these years and I just have to chalk it up, that BC bashers are idiots…there is just no other way around it!
John
July 23rd, 2009
3:05 pm
sorry dumb woman
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
3:05 pm
And now we have an argument. Escobar struck out looking and threw up his arms in protest, and Prado got thrown out trying to steal. Cox came out to argue, although I’m not sure over what. He can’t come out to argue balls and strikes or he’s automatically ejected. I think he was arguing the call on Prado, which was close.
As for the pitch to Esky: It was one of those big Zito breakers, and it might have been a tad high. But it might also have been Strike 3. How’s that for a definitive stand?
The_Superhoo
July 23rd, 2009
3:06 pm
Just no O today. I blame the MB jinx
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
3:06 pm
Thanks, John… Bobby ejected. Now, I’ll never get in the game.
nels
July 23rd, 2009
3:06 pm
at least bobby tired to seal. thank you for being agressive.
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
3:06 pm
Your attention, please. We in the press box aren’t sure if Cox has been ejected or not.
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
3:07 pm
Chipper is 37, high in errors, and injury prone. I think now is the perfect time for him to move to first. And when Freeman is ready, he will be ready to retire, hopefully more graceful than Glavine
Jeremiah
July 23rd, 2009
3:08 pm
That darn Randy Winn….
nels
July 23rd, 2009
3:08 pm
watchi out, here come medlin with his 5+ ERA!
timthebrave
July 23rd, 2009
3:08 pm
I wish we were facing Lincecum instead of Zito.
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
3:09 pm
Why was the ump barking at our sweet Esky?
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
3:09 pm
Sometimes we’re the last to know.
But I’m guessing now he has been, or he’d have come out to argue just now. Medlen came close to picking off Randy Winn at second base.
Another great AB for Fred Lewis. Man on second, nobody out, tie game. He pops to center.
And here’s where Medlen pitches around Sandoval, I’d surmise.
nels
July 23rd, 2009
3:09 pm
i dont know greg, your supposed to be in the dugout paying attention why dont you ask. maybe this is why you struggle.
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
3:10 pm
Nope. Went right at him. Got Sandoval to pop to left.
By the way, Randy Winn is the most underrated player in baseball.
BamaBrave
July 23rd, 2009
3:10 pm
ol’ Sandoval ALWAYS swings at the first pitch. No patience at all
Greg Norton
July 23rd, 2009
3:11 pm
Nice work, Medlen. Time to Sing!!!
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
3:12 pm
Official announcement comes from publicist Adrienne Midgely: “Bobby Cox was ejected by home plate umpire Jeff Kellogg.”
I remember Cox going wild over a Kellogg call at third base in Cincinnati on a Sunday in June 1992. When you get old, you remember the strangest things.
K
July 23rd, 2009
3:14 pm
Don’t understand how the Braves aren’t winning by 6? Why can’t they hit Barry Zito? He’s got one plus pitch……so sit on a marginal fastball.
Rick
July 23rd, 2009
3:14 pm
I felt like I was watching the Braves (circa 1st half ‘09) hit in that last half inning. Leadoff double followed up by really bad ABs. Playing fundamental baseball is so important in close games like this.
nels
July 23rd, 2009
3:15 pm
come on krotchmam!
Steven L
July 23rd, 2009
3:16 pm
This game reminds me of Game 3 against the Mets that we lost. We are finding ways not to score.
K
July 23rd, 2009
3:19 pm
Mark, can you tell me the last time Barry Zito went 8 innings in a game? Has he done that since his Cy Young days?
Steven L.
July 23rd, 2009
3:21 pm
This season Zito has gone 8 innings twice, most recently in a 309 win over Florida on July 7th when he gave up only 4 hits and a walk.
Steven L.
July 23rd, 2009
3:22 pm
3-0 win over Florida*
K
July 23rd, 2009
3:24 pm
Appreciate it.
He still should have been figured out by this point in the game.
Clemson538
July 23rd, 2009
3:25 pm
Mark i just keep reading that you think Kenshin is going to be moved into the set up role.. Im sorry but that is just ridiculous… he is getting paid WAY to much to be a set up man… that is one of the stupidest things i have heard in a long time.. sorry Mark.. The guy is making over 7 million a year.. way to much for a set up man.. especially one that has shown signs of being a very good starting pitcher in his first year with the MLB
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
3:25 pm
Zito has gone eight-plus innings twice this season. Once against Seattle (lost) and again against Florida (won).
Give him credit. He’s been good. Only three hits for the Braves — two in the second, Ross’ single in the seventh.
Gonzalez in to pitch the eighth. That’s four pitchers for the Braves in a 1-1 game.
And Schierholtz lines one off Gonzo’s back for a hit. It’s about to be five pitchers, I’d guess.
Roy Hobbs
July 23rd, 2009
3:26 pm
Nice at bat by Church. Did not turn out that great, but that might have been enough pitches to chase Zito.
nels
July 23rd, 2009
3:26 pm
infield single? what happended there?
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
3:27 pm
DOB thinks the ball hit Gonzo in the elbow. He’s out of the game. (Gonzo, not DOB.) Logan comes on. Five pitchers in a 1-1 game that’s only in the eighth.
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
3:29 pm
Left elbow on Gonzo. As they say on TV: We’ll pass along any update as soon as we get one.
Logan’s theme song: “Voodoo Chile.”
Jeremiah
July 23rd, 2009
3:30 pm
Crikey…I hope Gonzo is ok…
BamaBrave
July 23rd, 2009
3:31 pm
I agree with the Church at bat.
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
3:32 pm
Misplay by Kotchman, who doesn’t make many. Looked to second on Ishikawa’s bunt, threw too late to first to get the runner. Two on, zero out.
Steven L.
July 23rd, 2009
3:32 pm
Hey Mark,
Remember when I bitched about Bobby Cox using Gonzo in the meaningless situation last game of Mets series? Well he did it again the first game against the Giants with another 6 run lead. Now when we need him (Game 3 and 4 against the Giants) he struggles in Game 3 and gets beamed with a pitch in Game 4. Why we have this man pitching 4 times in 5 days is beyond me… but I do think this “freak” injury could have been avoided.
Mitchell
July 23rd, 2009
3:33 pm
Please take down the picture of that degenerate wife beating criminal.
I’d rather the Braves only have one World Series title than to have a bunch of October “heroes” who are a disgrace to their team*, a threat to society, embarrassments to their families (Daryl Strawberry, Cecil Fielder… ) and steroid users.
*Oh wait, the Yankees and their fans have no shame whatsoever. I forgot. They could care less that the guy in the picture is responsible for taking another person’s life. They should just give him a parade.
Actually that’s untrue. They feel sorry for him. They’re always like, “you hit a homerun in the world series and now you’re in jail again.”
“I know, I messed up.”
“It’s okay. We still love you.”
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
3:34 pm
And now Kotchman’s out of the game. Double-switch. Kelly to 2B, Prado to first, Moylan to pitch. Six pitchers in a 1-1 game. Yikes.
Bama Aaron
July 23rd, 2009
3:35 pm
What happened to Prado at 2nd?
Mitchell
July 23rd, 2009
3:35 pm
This is bulls***.
We’re going to win this game.
F* the Giants. F* the umps.
Robert Barron
July 23rd, 2009
3:35 pm
Mark you’re not a jinx. The bubble the Braves had that the Yankees popped may have be a prelude to all the bubbles we’ve had since then.
The_Superhoo
July 23rd, 2009
3:36 pm
WAY to go Kelly. Excellent work
goldglove?
July 23rd, 2009
3:36 pm
That’s at least TWICE Kotchman has screwed up a timing play to first…good grief! If you’re gonna SUCK at the plate…you can’t SCREW UP in the field!!!
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
3:36 pm
Can’t anybody here field a bunt? Juan Uribe drops one, Moylan throws to first but hits Uribe with the ball and Schierholtz scores on the error. Giants 2-1. Two on, nobody out. And Downs is trying to bunt again. I think I would, too.
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
3:36 pm
I would say I hope this doesn’t go extra frames but it looks like we would be lucky to get past this inning
Mitchell
July 23rd, 2009
3:37 pm
Well done, whoever put Kelly into the game.
This is complete BULLS**T.
Chris from the Rock
July 23rd, 2009
3:37 pm
He was in the baseline. Worse officiating so far this year.
Craig "Speedy" Ehlo
July 23rd, 2009
3:37 pm
The work Bobby just did this inning alone on the lineup card convinces me that he still has it – It takes a serious Wonderlicht score to arrange the lineup with substitutions like that…
Oh wait, it’s not Bobby Cox anymore. Chino?
BamaBrave
July 23rd, 2009
3:37 pm
and why exactly did we take medlen out? for this?
Scott
July 23rd, 2009
3:38 pm
Mitchell – When you said “wife beating criminal” i thought you were referring to Bobby Cox
goldglove?
July 23rd, 2009
3:39 pm
Medlen should still be in. He was cruising and I do believe he has a starter’s arm? HELLO? And for the love of God can we EVER get a freaking call when someone is in the baseline?????
Crazy Trades McGee
July 23rd, 2009
3:40 pm
Is Booby going Crazy? why is he changing pitchers after every out?
Jeremiah
July 23rd, 2009
3:41 pm
Another example of how Scott is a jerk….BC never beat his wife! They had a verbal argument and he yelled at her, that’s not the same as “beating your wife”…
BamaBrave
July 23rd, 2009
3:42 pm
welp, put this one in the books, braves haven’t hit ALL day.
Craig "Speedy" Ehlo
July 23rd, 2009
3:43 pm
Can someone explain what just happened better than mlb.com? My guess is Moylan threw it into right field – was the runner in the base path? What did Kelly have to do with it?
Chris from the Rock
July 23rd, 2009
3:43 pm
I hate Randy Winn. He’s a Punch n Judy hitter against every team but the Braves.
arif11
July 23rd, 2009
3:43 pm
Good grief.
Jeff
July 23rd, 2009
3:43 pm
Mark, glad you are still taking responsiblity for one of your worst columns. I still bring up your ridiculous comparison to the ‘27 Yankees to my friends.
Angus
July 23rd, 2009
3:43 pm
Yep – the stars don’t seem to be aligned.
Bad luck in the 1st.
Crazy strike zone that only Zito has been able to take advantage of.
Short end of all the close calls (don’t you have to make the call when the runner’s in fair territory and there’s a collision?)
Didn’t get to finish……4-1.
The_Superhoo
July 23rd, 2009
3:43 pm
Game. No way today’s O can come back.
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
3:43 pm
Moylan has been charged with a throwing error on Uribe’s punt. On the bright side, he has struck out Downs and Bowker. But that man Winn drives in one run with a single and Uribe scores after Church’s throw skips past Chipper Jones at third base. It’s 4-1. And who was the idiot talking about the Braves’ great defense?
Why, yours truly. I am a jinx. No question.
Will
July 23rd, 2009
3:43 pm
Mark, yes you still know how to jinx a team. I know there may be an obligation to the AJC, but please ease up on the pieces about the Braves getting it together to make an October run. It always seems to be the cue for them to lay an egg. Three hits through seven and a Bad News Bears-esque 8th. Surely you’re not surprised.
Bank Walker, Texas Ranger
July 23rd, 2009
3:43 pm
Downs can’t even bunt, Johnson to SF
EW
July 23rd, 2009
3:43 pm
MB, wasn’t it you who stated earlier this year that KK would be a way too expensive bullpen option??
Bama Aaron
July 23rd, 2009
3:43 pm
hallelujah we got someone out and we’re done with Zito! maybe we can get a hit off their relievers…
Scott
July 23rd, 2009
3:44 pm
shouldn’t a run that happened because of a pitcher’s error be an earned run?
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
3:44 pm
And now Bad At-Bat Fred Lewis singles in Randy Winn. It’s all gone pear-shaped, as they say in England. And folks are leaving.
37YrBravesFan
July 23rd, 2009
3:45 pm
Wrong move to send down Conrad. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it…
GO BRAVES!!!
NC Braves Fan
July 23rd, 2009
3:45 pm
Mark B.: it may not be a good idea for you to buy lottery tickets, become an economist or a tee-vee weatherman anytime soon. Just sayin’.
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
3:45 pm
Acosta up in the pen, if anyone cares. And Lewis steals second.
Jeremiah
July 23rd, 2009
3:46 pm
Well SHIZZZZZNNNNIIIIT!
Joey
July 23rd, 2009
3:46 pm
Welcome back Kelly. I predicted this around noon. Chemistry. Brooks Conrad was right in the middle of this good run, and Bobby had to get KJ back up hereto mess up the chemistry. For what? He can’t hit ( one month per season), and he can’t field.
rusty
July 23rd, 2009
3:46 pm
I dont care if this has been asked or not I havent read all the posts….. WHY ISNT PRADO in the game? There is no reason for Kelly Johnson to be ahead of him.
Bama Aaron
July 23rd, 2009
3:46 pm
ok…this inning stinks… and my network is bogging down… gamecast is 2 batters behind on my computer and i’m late on my posts…..not a good afternoon
rusty
July 23rd, 2009
3:47 pm
Enter your comments here
Chris
July 23rd, 2009
3:47 pm
The Brewers lineup tomorrow is about 20 times better than the Giants, we had to have this sweep, blew it.
Mark Bradley sucks a lot!
July 23rd, 2009
3:47 pm
Go away Mark Bradley. You suck.
Crazy Trades McGee
July 23rd, 2009
3:47 pm
So Bobby feels like if he doesn’t go straight to Moylan then it counts? Just because he ran through the entire rest of the bullpen in two innings to get to Moylan, it still counts as using him again, Doofus.
goldglove?
July 23rd, 2009
3:48 pm
Hey Mark…the next time we get a streak going….STFU!
G Man
July 23rd, 2009
3:48 pm
Bobby once again didn’t ride his horses. He tinkers when he should let things be and doesn’t do anything when he should tinker. I agree with Bama Aaron – Cox’s bad side has always been his suspect handling of the pen.
Steven L.
July 23rd, 2009
3:48 pm
Joey,
You have to find some humor at Kelly Johnson being in the game for 5 seconds before the Braves start playing their worst baseball since… well… since Kelly Johnson was replaced!
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
3:49 pm
What happened on the play at first base was that Moylan’s throw hit Uribe and bounced away.
And Will, I did say that about Kawakami. What, you’re expecting consistency now?
Seriously, I can see Kawakami being moved to a set-up role if Hudson returns and there’s no place for Kenshin in the rotation. If nothing else, it would save the Braves having to sign a set-up guy.
Chris
July 23rd, 2009
3:49 pm
KJ go away!
EW
July 23rd, 2009
3:49 pm
you can’t knock KJ for being called up. Chemistry?? eh, KJ has more chemistry with this team anyway, and he’s a better option off the bench. As long as Prado’s in, I’m happy. Nobody was praising KJ when he was successful. And oh by the way, haven’t heard much from the FIRE TP Peanut Gallery since the Braves started winning. I’m tired of the Braves fair weather fans, you’re either with us or you’re against us.
Michael Scharff
July 23rd, 2009
3:49 pm
That’s the problem with Cox and the Braves – when they’re good, they’re very, very good, but when they’re bad, they are EL STINKO ROTTEN…
Zach
July 23rd, 2009
3:51 pm
that was an adam laroach play by kotchman at first. Whats your take on interference on the moyland play? and what is chipper doing?
John
July 23rd, 2009
3:51 pm
When will the Braves realize that Moylan is an average-to bad pitcher. He is only good in situational spots where you need a ground ball. He always lets runners on base, even if he gets out of it. I do not understand why he is used so often. He had one good year when he snuck up on everyone. I guess his delivery was new to people. MLB hitters catch up to stuff like this. Just look at Hideo Nomo.
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
3:52 pm
Bruised left forearm on Gonzalez. X-rays were negative. He’s day-to-day. But, as the San Fran writer Ray Ratto first put it, “Aren’t we all?”
And Kelly Johnson singles to lead off the eighth. The man’s a machine.
Josh
July 23rd, 2009
3:52 pm
Goes to show how big a deal it is when McCann is out of lineup. This game could have been a different story had he hit instead of Ross with the bases jammed earlier.
Alex
July 23rd, 2009
3:53 pm
Moylan is sooooooo bad
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
3:53 pm
All four San Fran runs in the eighth were unearned. And Prado singles, too, which might have been a big deal had not McLouth hit into a DP. He has batted four times today and made six outs.
Joseph
July 23rd, 2009
3:54 pm
I am not a fan of Moylan and cringe everytime he is out there,,,,,,,
BamaBrave
July 23rd, 2009
3:54 pm
Is it just me or does it seem that the braves always play bad against lefty starters
EW
July 23rd, 2009
3:54 pm
McCann has taken over Chipper’s role as carrier of the team. Load em up on your back Mac, we’re gonna need to ride you to October.
Bama Aaron
July 23rd, 2009
3:55 pm
Disappointing way to end the homestand. Next time Mark please no prognostications….
jay
July 23rd, 2009
3:55 pm
Mark – please don’t go to another Braves game for the rest of the damn season. Thanks.
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
3:55 pm
I didn’t see a replay on the Moylan throw, but it looked to me like a bad throw, not runner’s interference. It wasn’t one of those things where the pitcher is throwing directly up the first-base line. Moylan was more toward third base. And he waited a little long, or so it seemed to me.
Big play in the inning was the Kotchman goof, IMHO.
The_Superhoo
July 23rd, 2009
3:55 pm
What the hell is going on with McLouth? I thought we got rid of our OF automatic out?
Cletus
July 23rd, 2009
3:56 pm
Why play McLouth? He has a crap batting average, is an average CF and does very little to help us win. I think Ryan Church would get us better offensive production. Blanco could hit for better average and play better D.
He is the weakest link.
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
3:56 pm
I promise I won’t come to a Braves game over the weekend. That good enough for you?
A. Teesman
July 23rd, 2009
3:56 pm
This is all Bradley’s fault and nobody else’s.
Bama Aaron
July 23rd, 2009
3:57 pm
And I agree Joseph… Moylan is the one pitcher I wince as soon as his name is announced..
mrjed
July 23rd, 2009
3:58 pm
Steven, UR right! KJ brings the above mentioned “chemistry’ in and the whole team goes to hell! I’d say is chemistry is H2SO4 to the team we’ve seen since the all star break.
goldglove?
July 23rd, 2009
3:58 pm
Hey Brad…how about you and KJ spend some extended time in GWINNETT???
Alex
July 23rd, 2009
3:58 pm
BTW, Buerhle 4 outs away from a perfect game!
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
3:58 pm
A seventh Braves pitcher has entered the fray. Manny Acosta, following Kawakami, O’Flaherty, Medlen, Gonzalez, Logan and Moylan. If this does go to bonus cantos, Tom Glavine might get a job offer.
jeff
July 23rd, 2009
3:58 pm
3 out of 4 is not bad
Lance
July 23rd, 2009
3:59 pm
This game reminds me of almost every Braves postseason loss in the 90’s… no one hits, someone makes stupid errors, and the bullpen breaks down. Ahhhh, memories….
goldglove?
July 23rd, 2009
3:59 pm
Meanwhile,Buehrle is PERFECT through 8 innings against the Rays.
space monkey
July 23rd, 2009
3:59 pm
This game comes under the heading of: You can’t win them all.
jeff
July 23rd, 2009
4:00 pm
We can sweep the brewers. We have the 3 aces going
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
4:00 pm
Brian Wilson up in the San Fran bullpen. Mike Love singing backup.
Cletus
July 23rd, 2009
4:00 pm
The thing about Bradley is he does not care if the Braves win or lose. He’s like the turncoat reporters in Vietnam that did everything they could to make the US feel bad about being over there.
All he’s got to do to get his paycheck is poke fun at the guys who are dying out there.
ranger
July 23rd, 2009
4:00 pm
I am at work and not really following the game. My gut is telling me that Kelly Johnson was brought back up. OK. But we sent Brooks Conrad somewhere and kept Diory Hernadez and Greg Norton. Together they are not hitting my weight. If this is true please let me know, I have access to psyciatric care for to goofball that made that choice.
BamaBrave
July 23rd, 2009
4:00 pm
Bad game, that extra 1/2 game on Philly would’ve been nice.
G Man
July 23rd, 2009
4:01 pm
Cletus – I hear your frustration but going to have to disagree with you in the big picture. McLouth was hitting over .300 as a Brave heading into the break. Albeit, he has been pretty terrible since the break but is still the only Brave on pace for over 20 HR’s and 100 RBI’s. I’d also argue that he is an above average CF (at the least).
I actually have never seen him as a lead off guy. I think he’s more suited for the 5 spot. He also seems to have a hitch in his swing right now. It’s too long. Anyway, here’s hoping he breaks from the slump.
Steven L.
July 23rd, 2009
4:01 pm
Wasn’t that Kelly Johnson and not Prado that got the single?
Bama Aaron
July 23rd, 2009
4:01 pm
LOL… ok thanks for that Mark…needed the chuckle to help ease this…
Lance
July 23rd, 2009
4:02 pm
I am a little perplexed by McLouth… i want to like the guy, and everyone kept telling me he was this former all-star, great pick up, etc… But let’s be honest, his numbers are horrendous. How can we expect to maintain a potent offense with a leadoff hitter batting .250??
Mrs. Chanandler Bong
July 23rd, 2009
4:03 pm
Mark Bradley, you are the new Jeff Francoeur.
Not Disappointed
July 23rd, 2009
4:03 pm
Mark, you can come to ball game anytime you feel like. While you’re here come by and help with remodeling my kitchen!!! Go Braves and Ga Tech!
A. Teesman
July 23rd, 2009
4:03 pm
I was kidding about that whole Bradley’s fault remark. Afterall, it’s baseball … they play every day. You can’t win ‘em all.
Dale
July 23rd, 2009
4:03 pm
Mark Bradley, Can you please just stop with your antics?! No one cares that you think you can jinx the Braves. I have read about this same thing in a column of yours a few months ago. Just stop. Stop trying to get attention. It’s obvious that’s what you’re trying to do. It just comes across that you’re screaming for it. “Look at me! I can predict when the Braves play bad. Pleas, look at me!!!!!” So annoying.
IlliniBrave
July 23rd, 2009
4:03 pm
Mark: reading through that line of seven pitchers really makes you take a second-look:
Kawakami – O’Flaherty – Medlen – Gonzalez – Logan – Moylan – Acosta
I mean, if that isn’t the sorriest line-up of mediocrity I don’t know what is. Besides Gonzalez, the rest of these guys are throw-aways and retreads. Come on, Mark, give us your honest opinion on this bullpen. It has to be one of the weakest in MLB.
Rodney Ho
July 23rd, 2009
4:04 pm
Heckuva job, Jinxy!
BamaBrave
July 23rd, 2009
4:04 pm
McLouth is a heck-of-a-outfielder. Do you guys not see some of the plays he makes??? My personal opinion but I think he is the best CF we’ve had in awhile.
goldglove?
July 23rd, 2009
4:04 pm
Hey Mark…your sense of humor SUCKS! That joke is OLD AND TIRED! Give it a rest…and don’t quit your day job…on 2nd thought…
Lance
July 23rd, 2009
4:04 pm
LOL – i can’t believe i just actually read someone compare Mark Bradley to an unpatriotic Vietnam reporter.
Ahhhhh, Mark, how do you put up with it day in and day out…
G Man
July 23rd, 2009
4:04 pm
MB – Major props on the Beach Boys reference/joke. I may be easily pleased but that was the best of the day for me…just slightly below the magic of Pet Sounds.
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
4:05 pm
You know, folks, if you’re making nasty comments about me, you might want to remember with whom you’re dealing. Mr. Mojo Risin’ — that’s me.
I wouldn’t get on my bad side. Just sayin’.
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
4:06 pm
Did someone just compare me to the late David Halberstam?
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
4:07 pm
McCann just doubled. Wouldn’t it be nice, GMan, if the Braves rallied?
BamaBrave
July 23rd, 2009
4:07 pm
here we go norton, out 3 im sure
ranger
July 23rd, 2009
4:07 pm
Boobie how about putting JJ in to run for Brian, then Chipper can catch extra innings and D Lowe can play third
goldglove?
July 23rd, 2009
4:07 pm
Ooooooh…we’re SCARED Mark. You suck…how in the heck have you managed to avoid the cuts at AJC? You’re predictable and boring…yawn. Oh yeah…and annoying.
IlliniBrave
July 23rd, 2009
4:07 pm
Hey guys, let up on Mark. I actually think his brand of honesty and sarcasm is refreshing. He reminds me of Skip Caray. At least he isn’t a “the glass is always half full” homer like DOB nor an out-of-touch “Debbie Downer” like Bisher.
Keep it up Mark – I like your columns and blogs!
Bama Aaron
July 23rd, 2009
4:07 pm
ah the moment everyone has been waiting for….Norton gets to hit
The_Superhoo
July 23rd, 2009
4:08 pm
Here’s Norton’ chance. Heh
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
4:08 pm
Certainly the right man is up. Greg Norton, batting .111.
PMC
July 23rd, 2009
4:08 pm
so it sort of seems like Moylan is the newest in the long line of talented middle releivers that just can’t get the job done whether he is worn out or what but he certainly needs a rest. He’s either shaky or can’t buy a strike. Oh well 6 out of 8 ain’t bad…. two series wins.
ranger
July 23rd, 2009
4:09 pm
Perfect game going into the 9th in ChiTown
Ben
July 23rd, 2009
4:09 pm
IMPLOSION.
The_Superhoo
July 23rd, 2009
4:10 pm
Nice work Greg. You freaking bum.
BamaBrave
July 23rd, 2009
4:10 pm
who could’ve predicted that out of norton? i’m guessing everyone
A. Teesman
July 23rd, 2009
4:10 pm
Actually, I think this year’s pen is much better than last year’s. It’s not a shutdown group from top to bottom, but you get some good work pretty regularly from Gonzo, O’Flaherty, Logan and Acosta.
Sting 'em Buzz
July 23rd, 2009
4:10 pm
1 out away from a perfecto
G Man
July 23rd, 2009
4:11 pm
If the Braves win this one, I do believe this hot streak might last All Summer Long…
I better stop myself.
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
4:11 pm
And mighty Norton grounds — hard, I might add — to second base. Bradley has triumphed yet again!
Actually, I feel kind of bad about this one. This was a game that the Braves could have won, but they didn’t hit — Chipper was 0-for-4 — and they couldn’t field a bunt. You don’t mind getting beat, but they pretty much undid themselves in that eighth inning.
goldglove?
July 23rd, 2009
4:11 pm
Perfect game for Buehrle….now THAT is pitching.
Buzz
July 23rd, 2009
4:11 pm
Mark — you compared yourself to a Pulitzer prize winning reporter. I think we are comparing you to a dry turd found on the fairway adjacent to a ball pounded on a 300-yard drive.
I think you have confused QUANTITY (your effusive posts) with QUALITY (Mr. Habersham).
You, sir, are the Dan Kolb of journalism.
Smart Jay
July 23rd, 2009
4:11 pm
Mark Buerhle pitched a perfect game for the WhiteSox justnow.
IlliniBrave
July 23rd, 2009
4:13 pm
Why do we keep guys like Norton, KJ, Moylan, O’Flatulate, and Acosta on the team? I don’t get it. These guys have sucked all year (and last year) and will continue to suck. There has to be somebody better somewhere down at the farm.
Bill
July 23rd, 2009
4:14 pm
Thanks Mark. I made it through the game without blogging. Have a great week-end and keep up the great job. your friend.
david
July 23rd, 2009
4:14 pm
Well my days was ruined,could not trade Bradley and you guessed it WHO made the last out.WHAT MANAGEMENT WE HAVE!
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
4:14 pm
It could have been worse. At least the Braves didn’t get a perfecto thrown at them.
Going downstairs now. Back in a bit to wrap up. (Sound like a radio guy, don’t I?)
Floyd
July 23rd, 2009
4:14 pm
I blame today’s loss and Atlanta’s uninspired play on the return of Kelly Johnson. After what this team has accomplished without him, it sickens and disgusts me to see him back in Atlanta. They better be shopping him for a trade – and it better happen fast.
IlliniBrave
July 23rd, 2009
4:15 pm
Buzz: If Bradley was the Dan Kolb of journalism, he would have to be 100 lbs overwieght, sweat like crazy every time he typed up an article, and then almost single-handedly drive the AJC organization into ruin. I don’t think he’s even close to being a “Dan Kolb”
Rob
July 23rd, 2009
4:16 pm
Unbelievable. Please start predicting the Phillies will run away with the division and Florida will cream the Bulldogs. If you are right it may reverse the hex, if you are wrong, everyone can rejoice
Mrs. Chanandler Bong
July 23rd, 2009
4:16 pm
I think it’s everyone’s write to harp on Bradley’s writing if you so choose, but probably not the man himself. Some of you are getting hateful.
Still go your back, MB.
Mrs. Chanandler Bong
July 23rd, 2009
4:16 pm
*right, not write. I can’t believe I graduated with a degree in Journalism.
Roy Hobbs
July 23rd, 2009
4:17 pm
This type of game is one of the things the Braves still need to address. Going all the way back to the first series of the season, and the CO series. Play great ball for all but about 1 or 2 innings of a series and blow the chance at a sweep.
Hopefully these little lapses are not what keeps us out of the playoffs.
TheShoz
July 23rd, 2009
4:21 pm
Moylan sucks more than a Kirby….
A. Teesman
July 23rd, 2009
4:31 pm
Can Norton be released now? Why is Kelly Johnson back here?
jimmya
July 23rd, 2009
4:32 pm
starting to play first half ball again?????????
Maxwell Snark
July 23rd, 2009
4:33 pm
Was Kolb gigantic? I thought it was that other closer.
OICUB12
July 23rd, 2009
4:35 pm
Bradley been listening to the braves announcers to much!
Roy Hobbs
July 23rd, 2009
4:39 pm
EW, those of us who think TP should be fired are not all fair weather fans. Personally I prefer the fair weather fans to the homers who think this team can do no wrong.
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
4:39 pm
Hello again. A mischievous reporter — actually, me — asked Bobby Cox: “So were you arguing the call at second base or the third strike?” And Cox let the assembled media know, in no uncertain terms (and also in some terms that cannot be used here), that his gripe was with Kellogg’s third strike on Escobar. Said he’d “never seen a ball called a strike like that, not in 50 years.”
Cox was so enlightening on the subject that I feel the urge to write a separate post about it. Which I’m going to do now. Thanks for hanging with me all day, folks, and I’m sorry I let you down. (Or, depending on your point of view, lived up to my reputation.)
We’ll do it again sometime. Or maybe we shouldn’t do it again sometime. Let me cogitate on that. But give me 20 minutes and you’ll see a short little something about Cox’s outburst.
STRETCH
July 23rd, 2009
4:47 pm
Well, one thing for sure is MCLOUTH aint exactly tearing the cover off the ball since the break.
Moylan? Teams are getting used to him and smacking him around, plus the guys arm is going to fall off.
They just gotta get back on track with the Brewers coming up. Can do some damage against another wild card team.
Maxwell Snark
July 23rd, 2009
4:47 pm
Wickman was the tub of lard, as opposed to the tub of goo, who was actually a pretty decent pitcher.
Fast Eddie Perez
July 23rd, 2009
4:47 pm
The Norton watch is back on since they sent my man Brooksie down, he’s now @ .109, if hitting below .200 is the Mendoza line, is hitting below .100 now called the Norton line???? Another donkey move by Booby Cox, I knew he couldnt resist the urge to use KJ, guess Conrad hustled too much for Boobys tired azz, pitiful roster decision
The_Superhoo
July 23rd, 2009
4:48 pm
To those critical of those upset with Bradley, some people are superstitious, especially in sports. If you don’t want to get burned don’t play with fire. Not too happy with the jinx myself, but I blame the KJ/Conrad move here.
That’s what changed between the first 3 games and today, and all chemistry went out the window.
rhynster
July 23rd, 2009
5:07 pm
People bagging on Mark Bradley?
No kidding, but he’s the best writer the AJC has.
SD in WNC
July 23rd, 2009
5:09 pm
Yes this is familiar. What is bad is (go back and look this up).. every time the Braves and media have touted something, i.e. sweep a team, start hitting, blah blah blah… the team does not respond.
Braves are playing well and winning now, but they cannot afford to give games away. Not one game. Lose and fight – we are behind you all the way. Lose via errors – and you gave a game away. Braves need to stop that now in case they really want to make a run to the playoffs.
Cox has lost it
July 23rd, 2009
5:16 pm
HEY BRADLEY, YOU KNOW YOU JINX THEM, WE KNOW YOU JINX THEM, EVERYONE KNOWS YOU JINX THEM, YET YOU CONTINUE TO DO SO. IT SEEMS LIKE YOU ARE ACTUALLY TRYING TO JINX THEM!!!!!!!!! F*****G QUIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
5:22 pm
Here, as promised/threatened, is a short little post on Bobby Cox’s 146th ejection.
Gary Petersen
July 23rd, 2009
5:22 pm
ZITO is pitching today..really tough on left hand hitters….so what do we do we snd CONRAD down!!!!!!…who should have been playing second with PRADO at first!!!!!!!Or if Norton is that valuable why wasnt he playing first????????ISNT the object to win…..diory h. CANT HIT AT ALL….HE REMAINS…..KOTCHMAN strikes out with the bases loaded in a very key situation!!!!!diory POPS out..pinch hitting….we needed the right hand hitters in against a lefty like that….again “terrible” managing….plus MEDLEN could have pitched another inning easily!!!!!
Cox has lost it
July 23rd, 2009
5:25 pm
YOU ARE NEITHER CUTE NOR FUNNY WITH YOUR ATTEMPTS TO (SUCCESSFULLY) JINX THIS TEAM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! DO US ALL A FAVOR AND GO CRAWL UNDER A ROCK!!!!!!!!!!
Mitch C
July 23rd, 2009
5:25 pm
Mark, I used to live in NY, and in 1996, after the way the Braves manhandled the Yankees in Games 1 and 2 in the Bronx, I’ll admit I was thinking “Four game sweep, Braves in five, at most”. What happened was among my biggest disappointments in sports, ever.
As for the 2009 Braves, they are playing very well, in spite of their little toe stub today. That having been said, they have to keep plugging away.
I dont think the Braves are going to catch the Phillies. While we still have two plus months left, Philly looks poised for 95 plus wins and an easy division title.
There is no reason the Braves cant win the wild card. They just have to keep playing their game. I think it will take 88 to 90 wins to snag the wild card, as there are many good teams in the race.
I keep wondering what Frank W is going to do next Friday. I wish we could get one more bat, but, if we have to mortgage the farm for a rental, a la Texeira to do so, then I hope Frank stands pat, and that we have enough. This is a good club, as the month of July has proven.
It will be very interesting to see what the next week brings.
Mitch
Nova Scotia Steve
July 23rd, 2009
5:52 pm
Tough Loss today….and no not you’re fault Mr. Bradley.
We just need to pack up fly to Brew Crew town and beat and AT LEAST win the series.
With the pitching match-ups I don’t think we’ll see a sweep on either side…But we truly need the series victory.
But yes tough loss and I’m not a fan of Kenshin Kawacrappy…run support or not!
He’s tough to watch man
All I'm Saying Is...
July 23rd, 2009
6:43 pm
Not your fault Bradley—-you’re not that important. LET’S GO BRAVES!
Chris
July 23rd, 2009
6:50 pm
Mark, I keep reading that the Nats are possibly shopping Adam Dunn. Dont the Braves at least owe it to themselves and their fans to see what it would cost to get him? I mean if the Nats want too much all they have to do is say “thanks, but no thanks”. I mean, maybe they just want like KJ and a prospect..then what would our chances be of making the playoffs? I’d say it’d be pretty dang good – adding a 40 HR guy to the club would put us in the WC spot at minimum.
Mark Bradley
July 23rd, 2009
7:07 pm
I’m not certain Dunn is for sale, Chris, and certainly not at a bargain-basement price. Kelly Johnson and a prospect wouldn’t be enough — unless Jason Heyward is the prospect.