You be the manager: Pick the new Braves’ third baseman

Infante at 2nd and leadoff; Prado at 3rd in the 2 hole; Heyward in the 3.

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Let Terry Pendleton come back and play….

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Just don’t trade for one. It’s too early to tell how next spring will shape up. Even if Glaus isn’t available to switch, you have three viable candidates on the major league squad. Something will work out, and Freeman can come grab Chipper’s roster spot and get acclimated to the bigs. Situational insertion rather than steady playing time, but still… Prado at 3, Infante at 2, Conrad subbing and spelling. Why on earth would you give up assets to answer a 10 week question?

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No in-house candidate to get Braves past Philthy-delphia. Hit up waivers.

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prado for sure. good defensive third baseman and that would allow you to keep infante’s bat in the lineup. lineup as I would like to see it: Prado-3B, Infante-2B, Heyward-RF, McCann-C, Glaus-1B (please call up Freeman), Gonzales-SS, Diaz/Melky-LF, Ankiel-CF

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Of course you insert Infante into the lineup when Prado returns…Duh…

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Mark – I agree with you regarding Prado being the new third baseman. Keep Infante at second. It seems Infante and Gonzalez have become a nice little double play duo here lately. They seem to compliment each other well. Plus, I like Prado’s glove work better than Infante, which is needed when playing the hot corner.

Infante – 2nd
Prado – 3rd
Heyward – RF (time to step up in a power role)
McCann – C
Hinske – 1st Base
Diaz – LF
Cabrera/Ankiel – CF
Gonzalez – SS

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another question- is Chipper really liked in the clubhouse or is he the whiny little girl that he strikes me as???

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The lineup is right, but we need Freeman platooning at 1B, Diaz playing everyday.

We will be fine- but we need Chipper on the bench still leading these guys-

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For the record, how fortunate are we that the Braves have 2 guys who can pretty much play anywhere in Infante and Prado and do it really well.

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Not until the rosters expand to 40 will we see Freddie Free-man

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I vote Terry Pendleton…..But who am I to say?

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Hinske at first base and hitting behind McCann against RHers. Switch Prado and Heyward. Bench Ankiel, he has been a horrible player. Play Melky in CF or better yet, bring up Matt Young and play him in center and bat him 8th.

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My EVERYDAY lineup:

1. Infante 2B
2. Prado 3B
3. Heyward RF
4. McCann C
5. Gonzalez SS
6. Hinskie 1B
7. Diaz LF
8. Cabrera CF

Will this ever happen? No. Because we are too committed to the platoon. But Glaus and Ankiel are strikeout machines. And we’re simply a better team with Hinskie at first and Diaz and Cabrera in the OF.

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Why is the front office so disinclined to bring Freeman up and sit Glaus, who is hurting us on offense and defense? Financial? If he is a september callup, does that also use up one year of the Braves contractural rights over him?

Yes to Prado at 3rd.

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Prado is probably the most valuable player on our team this year. Why would you want your most valuable player playing out of position? Infante would be a good bat to add to the lineup everyday, and so far him and Gonzalez have produced nothing but errors trying to turn double plays. Obviously they don’t have timing or chemistry. Keep Brooks on the bench for the late game pinch hitting heroics.

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Mike Greenberg just payed an awesome compliment to Chipper on Mike/Mike ESPN radio. He said he’s the greatest ATLANTA Brave, more so than Dale Murphy and Greg Maddux (or any of our future HOF pitchers) – pay attention people…ATLANTA Brave, not all time great franchise BRAVE (which clearly belongs to the Hammer)

He also said Chipper could be arguably the 2nd greatest 3B (from a hitting standpoint) after Michael Jack Schmidt.

But they also said his career can not END like it did. I truly believe if he can have a successful surgery and physically recover he will come back in the 2011 season to finish out his career the right way and walk off the major league field under his own power not being helped by trainers/team mates.

As far as the 3B option I agree with you Mark, out of the options listed Prado would be best…but with his throwing hand injury not sure if he can make the longer throws from 3B to 1B when needed like a healthy Omar.

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CJ, Prado at 3B is not out of position. He has filled in for Chipper very admirably in the past at 3B before he really got his bat going the last 1 1/2 years. People just didn’t pay attention to him

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Kind of surprised that neither u nor Jeff had an opinion on Chipper Jones injury on the morning paper. Or don’t u all still sell papers? We might have seen Chipper’s last game and i would have thought u guys would have written extensively on it.

BTW, Where’s Schultz? Did he resign? The personnel at AJC is looking bare everyday. When is ESPNAtlanta opening up?

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Prado at third and Omar staying at second probably make this team better overall since these two seem to be the only players that have not gone into a slump this year. A slump for these two seems to last 2 days where as everyone else goes into these 2 week slumps. Then there is Troy who goes into 2 month slumps. Speaking of Troy, from watching the games last week it appeared he is starting to make better contact with the ball. He did strike out a few times but he looked to be swinging better and hitting the ball hard most of the time. He got some singles and the 1 home run so maybe he is breaking out again.

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Kentavo, I don’t think physically he can handle all the ground balls like he could when he was a rookie in Toronto.

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BTW, Where’s Schultz? Did he resign? The personnel at AJC is looking bare everyday. When is ESPNAtlanta opening up?

********************************

U are aware he’s got his own blog right? He’s also on FB and Twitter.

Probably never, ESPN dislikes ATL sports teams in general. They’ll have an ESPN Portland before they have one for Atlanta.

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Doesn’t look like our AAAA minor leagues teams in KC or Pittsburgh have much to offer. If we wanted more pop and could somehow clear waivers – Kelly Johnson could probably be obtained from AZ.

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Trade for Scott Rolen.

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Mark – like your lineup. Everyone seems to think Heyward should move to third in the lineup. Please expand on your thoughts of leaving him in the second slot…..

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ON CALLING GONZALEZ SEA BASS -
I vote, as he is now in the deep South, that his nickname be changed to:
THE CATFISH. Thoughts?

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Hankie, I realize Prado has been there before filling in, but I still think that the Infante/Gonzalez tandem up the middle is not as good as the Prado/Gonzalez tandem. Far less errors.

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True Kentavo. I like the idea of Scott Rolen GATA but i don’t see it happening. I don’t think we make any moves externally

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what a bad day for braves fans…without reading any posts i was immediately thinking put troy glaus back at third where hes more comfortable anyway and will make less errors. call up freddie freeman to play first and get his feet wet, since they will call him up next year or in september anyway. my thoughts

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Infante should go to 2nd and move Prado to 3rd, assuming that’s where they are strongest defensively. The line up should go: 1) Prado; 2) Infante; 3) Heyward; 4) McCann.

Heyward is the #3 hitter of the future. He’s proven he’s ready. And now it’s his turn to take this team to the playoffs. Let Prado and Infante get on base and let Heyward and McCann get them in.

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This is a great time to try a left-handed fellow at third. See what he could do. It would be an innovative move, and if it were successful, it would spread throughout baseball like tobacco spit drizzling down dugout steps..

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Infante at 2nd and Prado at 3rd, that is by far the best lineup at this point. I really don’t know what other possibilities would even come close to filling in the gap.

Your not going to replace Chipper’s power in the lineup, but you can replace his offense and defense.

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I thought that the intergalatic mothership had picked Shultz up, for re-evaluation and reprograming.

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Mark – you totally should have put Joe in his place with his comment/question about Chipper either being liked in the clubhouse or a whiny little girl. I know its not your style to do so, but Chipper has done more for this organization than any other player in recent memory. Which is why it would not surprise me to see him as their hitting coach in a few seasons, which would be given to him b/c players like, respect and admire him for his candor AND baseball knowledge.

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If the Braves acquire him from the Mariners, would Chone Figgins try to beat up Bobby Cox in the dugout when “The Skipper” inevitably takes him out of a late-season, pennant-race game for not hustling and/or not putting the team first?

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P.S.

You’re not going to miss Larry too much now. Where you’ll miss him is if you make the playoffs. The guy’s a warrior and a battle scarred vet. If I was splaying the Braves in the playoffs I’d rather NOT see Larry in there.

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By the end of the month, Boston will see they are in no position to get to the playoffs. So, at that time, I’d hope that Mike Lowell had passed through waivers and we could swing a deal for him. He’s still a very good defensive 3B and his bat will still give you a long ball from time to time.

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I like Prado at 3rd. Mark, I do like your lineup ,but I want Diaz playing 5-6 games a week in left.

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I agree with most of the readers here that I would put the top 3 as Prado, Infante, Heyward….That doesn’t seem so bad. Though I think the loss of Chipper is a killer. Who are we going to bring up to replace him?

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I like Prado in the 3rd spot in the order and at 3rd base, but, I don’t want him to change his approach at bat to that of the prototypical 3rd slot hitter. Generally more power and RBI expectations are placed on that spot in the order and the tendency is to power up. Martin needs to stay true to himself.

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I think Glaus is starting to come around. He’s getting a few hits and his outs are hard hit balls.

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Glaus hitting the ball out of the infield is a mircle

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Start Prado at 3rd, bat him second and trade Ankiel and the bullpen bum Peter Moylan!!!!

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J Hey should hit 3rd. Not Prado.

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Mark,

Why would you move Prado from hitting second and make him the #3 guy? Why not go Infante, Prado, then Heyward?

Another question. Who do we have in the pipeline to take over at 3B?

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Bring Bob Horner out of retirement!

I like this lineup.
Infante – 2nd
Prado – 3rd (Or Bob Horner
Heyward – RF (time to step up in a power role)
McCann – C
Glauss – 1st Base
Diaz/Hinske – LF
Cabrera/Ankiel – CF
Gonzalez – SS

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Infant 2B
Heyward RF
Prado 3B
McCann C
Gonzalez SS
Hinske 1B
Melky/Diaz LF
Ankiel CF

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What’s the deal about when people need to have been on the Big club in order to be eligible for post-season play? I always thought that they had to have been on the ‘roster’ at some point prior to September 1…is that correct? If so, then why not get Freddie up here for whatever period, or any others that may be able to contribute come October. I know about the ’starting the arbitration clock’ but dammit we’re as close as we’ve been to making the playoffs in years and I’d hate to see them blow it by acting niggardly (look it up). And while we’re at it, what’s with the Thurston kid. He was right in the thick of things in Spring Training at third – and they wisely chose Conrad – to make the team? I know he’s not tearing it up, but how’s his defense? Can he play anywhere other than third?

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Of course Prado returns to second base.

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I also think Prado at third is a good idea… as long as the longer throws to first don’t aggravate his pinky (which I dont think they would, but that would be the only reason not to do that).

If they go outside the organization, the only person I can think of that might actually help the team would be Ty Wigginton. He’s right-handed, has an ok obp, and would be a power upgrade at the position. Figgins seems like the kind of guy we desperately need to avoid. He’s an aging player with a big contract and declining numbers. We’re going to have a relatively young, exciting club next year, but they’ll need to have enough resources to add a real power hitter in the off-season. Figgins would definitely impede the organization’s ability to do that. For a team without a lot of money, he’d be a roadblock to future success.

Regardless of who it is, it’s going to be next to impossible to get a useful bat off of waivers right now. That’s the kicker. They can’t just call up a random team and say, “Hey, we’ll give you these two players for your third baseman.”

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brooks desrves it imo. gonzo should be benched for his pathetic play at short.

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Why not try Gonzalez at third…he is killing us up the middle………and why do some of you put Hinske to start at first…..the little four game expriment was terrible with him at first…might as well keep Glaus there..after all he is still leading the team in RBI’s……..

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But I can play 3rd……when healthy!

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I have to admit that I know nothing about this Freeman character who is the subject of so much speculation right now — but then I knew nothing about Mike Minor, who was pretty impressive in that first outing. I live in Greenville, SC, and my local paper doesn’t provide much information about the Braves farm system since our local Greenville Braves (AA) left a few years ago, to be repaced recently by the Greenville Drive, a Red Sox (A) affiliate. Be that as it may, I say, bring up Freeman and let’s see what he’s got. He can spell Glaus (assuming a Hinske/Diaz platoon in LF), and get a bit of experience and confidence. I’m still counting on Troy for a strong finish. His swing looks to me much more technically secure than Ankiel’s, and I would begin to platoon Melky and Ankiel in center (though Ankiel’s defence looks a bit solider than Melky’s). Ankiel has a great story — failed pitcher to slugging outfielder — and it’s hard to dislike the guy, but I’ve yet to be impressed by his work at the plate. I would have kept Gregor Blanco. As for batting order — Infante (3b), Prado, (2b), Heyward, McCann, Gonzalez, Diaz/Hinske (LF), Glaus, Ankiel/Cabrera (CF).

I’m going to be very interested in the Dodgers series — this is a team with serious bullpen problems, and we should take 3 out of 4. As for Philly — a very likeable, scrappy team — Kershaw had them where he wanted them, and when we get down to the end of the season, Atlanta pitching can control them too. Our bullpen can isn’t infallible, but it has never looked as bad as the Dodgers did last night — we wouldn’t have blown that lead. Also, in the natural rhythm of things, Philly is due to cool off a little — I doubt that they’ll sweep the Mets. Bottom line — the Braves can make post-season. Beyond that, I’m reserving my judgement for now. Whoever wins the NL is going to have a tough time with Texas, my prediction for the AL winner.

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Nate, if it were any other guy, I would agree with you about not moving a guy during a career year. But, Prado has proven that he can move around the infield and stay consistant at the plate.

As for Infante at 2B, he has done just fine. No problem there.

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Good column, Mark. (As usual). I agree with your assessment and the only thing I’d do different in batting order is switch Heyward and Prado.

Only thing that bothers me is this. “Quoth Wren: “I’m not sure we’ll find anything better than that out on the market place.”

That sounds an awful like “Quoth the Raven, ‘Nevermore’”

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Wasn’t this team fine when Chipper was out of the lineup or hitting poorly? Isn’t this team just about .500 since the break when Chipper was hitting decent? I don’t see a problem with any of the choices at 3rd base. This is not the Chipper from years ago and his fielding is so-so despite his last play. The Braves won’t miss a beat unless the pitching blows up.

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I would swap Heyward and Prado in the line up positions w/Heyward hitting 3rd and Prado 2nd.

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Mr. Bradley,

I like your lineup a lot. However, I would say Prado leads off with Infante hitting second which moves Heyward to the three hole.

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Fan north,
The team was fine BUT you have to understand the dynamic of a batting order. Chipper commanded the respect of opposing pitcher even when he wasn’t hitting his best and his OBP was extremely solid. Prado and Infante and keep up the on base percentage along with Heyward but if Glaus can’t start driving the ball then they know McCann is the only one in the middle of that order that is consistently making solid contact so he will see NOTHING to drive, ever, period, he will be walked every time they will NOT let Mac beat them because they know he’s the only one in the part of the lineup who can. Its hard to say it but it hinges on Troy now. Gonzo has flashed some power but i wouldnt say hes showed consistent solid contact.

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MB:

What do you think about picking up Jose Guillen if he clears waivers and is formally released on Sunday? It’s not going to solve anything at 3B directly, but his bat is strong and that would take some pressure of the new 3B having to produce too much.

HT

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kgb I agree about the clutch situations but there was good 2 months earlier where it seemed Heyward was always due up in those situations and the fans wouldn’t even sweat it, you expected him to come through. I hope he can regain that confidence.

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I like Prado batting third (lefty righty thing) and he is as close to a #3 hitter as there is on our roster.

Play Diaz more!

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The one good thing about Chipper being out for the year is that it gives his: toe, ankle, groin, hamstring, quad, left ring finger, wrist, and left ovary time to heal.

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Prado should play 2B until he is comfortable throwing with a broken finger. Let Infante play 3B until Prado is ready. Here is the lineup:

Prado – 2B
Infante – 3B
Heyward – RF
McCann – C
Gonzo – SS <– this guy needs more RBI opp's
Hinske – LF
Glaus – 1B
Ankiel – CF

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Mark,

Our bench is the reason the Braves are in first place. If Infante starts at second the bench is massively weakened and the Braves would need to make a move to strengthen the bench (Hicks meh). What about Wilson Betemit? He’s batting .328 he’s a switch hitting.

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George Stein, Are you the DUI lawyer?

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I can’t see moving an All-Star 2nd baseman who’s having a career year. Omar has proven that he can effectively play 3rd and he has much more experience playing that position this year. Martin has been the best leadoff hitter and 2nd baseman in the league and I can’t see doing anything to upset that. Omar has played all over the field and lineup and has exceled.

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In my opinion … the first four lineup spots are the important ones and should remain consistent. They start the game and because the pitcher is often an automatic out (except for Hudson) they restart the sequence. My pick is:

1. Infante 2B
2. Prado 3B
3. Heyward RF
4. McCann C

Choose spots 5 through 8 based on health, needed rest, match-ups and maybe performance (who has got the best record in the last 10 games – make it competitive).

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Here’s what needs to happen. Bobby Cox changes his mind and stays another year. Chipper comes back and plays his last season next year. Bobby and Chipper retire together with a World Championship and enter the Hall in five years, together. It just isn’t right if it ends for Chipper this way. For all he’s done for the Braves, he needs to be able to leave on his own terms.

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I know Prado can play 3B, but I don’t like moving him from 2B either. Not unless you see him as a long-term answer at third rather than second. If the Braves do, fine – go for it. But he’s established himself as an everyday starter (and star). He should be playing where the Braves see him for the long-term.

That said, if they see him long-term at 2B, then I’d consider doing something I’ve seen just a couple people mention. Omar is not as great at 3B that’s true. And it looks like range isn’t Sea Bass’ greatest strength, but he’s got good, quick hands. So maybe try him at third, with these lineup possibilities:

Against RHs:

Infante 6 (he’s playing great leading off, too)
Prado 4 (great at situational hitting, and now can have someone on when he homers)
Heyward 9 (no pressure – just tell him to keep line-driving; he’s our three-hole future, why not now?)
McCann 2
Cabrera 7 (against the RH, he’s putting solid ABs together now)
Ankiel 8 (better against RH, so higher in the order)
Gonzalez 5 (3B solution)
Freeman 3 (bring him up to at least platoon with Glaus – absolutely have to give him a try now)
Pitcher 1

Against LHs:
Infante 6
Prado 4
Heyward 9
McCann 2 (leave him in the 4-hole except when spelled by Ross; Mac’s only steady power now)
Diaz 7
Gonzalez 5 (higher against LHs)
Glaus 3
Ankiel 8 (lower against LHs)
Pitcher 1

Bench priorities:
-Hinske: With Freeman up he can now do more to spell at 3B or LF when needed.
-Conrad is now your main utility infielder.
(And bringing Freeman up means you can now use Hinske and Conrad more frequently as pinch-hitters, where they thrive, without them being overexposed too often in the starting nine.)
-Diory Hernandez: Defensive sub/pinch runner option like Conrad.
-David Ross: Can spell Mac when needed and late-game defensive sub of course
-Diaz/Cabrera: Platoon to utilize their best sides, defensive needs late in games.
-Glaus/Freeman: Platoon leaves one big bat (theoretically) available on the bench when opposing manager makes a switch to a different arm. Gives Freeman a chance to show he belongs, chance to be on postseason roster if he earns it, and experience for next year.

And best wishes to Chip. Man, what a sad way for his season to end. Here’s hoping he feels like coming back. Amazed how, even with his diminishing skills/power/etc., he still works a pitcher as smartly and as consistently as anybody in the league.

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Bad legs or not…it’s gotta be Glaus. This is fate. The Freddy Freeman Era starts now!

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Attended the 2 wins in Houston and told my better half that I was seeing signs that Glaus was starting to hit the ball hard again. Besides the homerun on Tuesday, he hit a deep fly to center that would have been out if he had caught it a bit sooner and sent it to left. We need him now, and i think he is ready for another streak.
Ankiel also chased down some balls in center that were difficult but made easy. He can play CF for me as long as he hits his weight. Of course, a small streak of 2-4 games would bring that average up to that.
As far as 3B, Bobby will do the right thing as I think this is a magical year for the Skipper – The team has stepped up all year when they needed to, and the Phillies have made it a “need to time” Go Braves!

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Even though Bobby Cox is a third baseman, I say move Glaus to his natural position at third. Hinske to first and Diaz can play every day. Infante still available to play any seven positions.

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1. Infante 2b
2. Prado 3b
3. Heyward rf
4. McCann c
5. Gonzales ss
6. Diaz/Hinke lf
7. Freeman/Glaus lb
8. Ankiel cf – Until we can get something better

5. Diaz/Hinke lf

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[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Mark Bradley, crlnix. crlnix said: RT @MarkBradleyAJC: U B the manager: Pick the #Braves new 3B starter. (I'm a #Prado advocate.) http://bit.ly/a15DWa [...]

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and where would something better in CF be coming from Ralph?

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One thing for sure, we will find out soon who Bobby thinks should be at 3rd

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I really like the idea of buying low on Chone Figgins if the money worked out. Sending McLouth and KK the M’s way could go a long way towards that. The Braves are not going to find a power threat on waivers, but the addition of Figgins speed could transform the lineup in a different way. If the Braves acquired Figgins, he would be my starting 3B, Infante my starting 2B and Prado my starting 1B.
Lineup of:
Figgins
Heyward
Prado
Mac
Hinske/ Diaz
Gonzalez
Infante
Cabrera/Ankiel

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Pick me!

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Common sense would dictate that Prado should be moved to third, Infante to start most if not everyday at Second, and keep Conrad coming of the bench. Of course, that’s common sense/logic.

Here’s Bobby’s logic: Prado to remain at Second, platoon Infante with Conrad at third (which means Conrad would get the bulk of playing time due to the number of right handers the Braves would face). I love Conrad and everything he has done to help this year’s team, but he need come off the bench.

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Amit Shah – Aramis Ramirez makes over $16 mil a year and he’s not at the end of his contract.

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I think Prado moves to third but remains in leadoff….he’s done way too well there to move. Infante or Heyward hitting 2nd and 3rd in the the lineup with McCann 4th. This would be ideal. Then they add Glaus to the BENCH and bring up Freddie Freeman!!!!!!!!!!!!! But I’m just a girl, what do I know?

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I said “short”; I meant “third”.

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Prado at third for sure, but I’d bat Jason in the three hole, Cox needs to give him another pep talk about taking the big swing instead of trying to walk, we need a big bat now Jason not walks. I’d bring Freeman up in Sept. and give him some big league exposure but I’d keep Glaus at first, we would not be in first place without him and he’s our best shot at staying in first if he gets his bat going again.

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Sooo sorry to see Chipper out! Perhaps he can get the surgery and come back next year! I would not count him out and retired yet. For now, replace him with Infonte, and Prodo can go to second. Pretty good replacements if you ask me. Good luck Braves for the rest of the season, and Chipper see you next year!

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Is Wilson Betemit available?

Can Wilson Betemit be had?

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Prado at 3rd, Infante at 2nd, Freeman at 1st, Glaus the well rested Bat on the Bench.

Infante, Prado, Heyward, McCann, Gonzalez, Freeman/Glaus, Diaz/Hinske, Cabrera/Ankiel

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I think once Prado comes back, you need to keep Conrad on the bench. Yes, I feel like he has earned a spot with his clutch play, but he better suits the team as the guy that can come through late in games. As for Infante or Prado at 3rd or 2nd, I think you need to put Prado back at 2nd, and move Infante over to third. Both can play the hot corner, but Infante was selected for the All Star game on the basis that he is versatile in the positions he can play, and has been used to moving around. I don’t think it would be a great idea to move Prado over to third after he had been playing second base all year prior to the injury. Not saying I don’t think he can handle it, just probably a better idea to keep him where he’s been most of the year, and move Infante since he’s been used to playing different positions.

Either way, the Phillies suck, I can not believe they somehow won that game last night, but the Bravos will pull it out in the end.

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I like that lineup…However, I’d put ol Glausy down in the 8 hole…I think he will be more of a liability as the season wears on. What’s with the Braves and their inability to obtain and maintain a reliable glove and bat at first?….

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Seattle would want a near-term prospect for Figgins. They might take KK as part of the package, and KK would probably benefit from playing out there, but Seattle would be stupid to do a straight-up deal.

If I were Seattle I’d start by asking for Freeman. When Wren hangs up I’d wait for him to call back and offer something of real value.

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Time to bring back Greg Norton. I think Wren is going to have to redo his contract though, because rumor has it he legally changed his name to A Drop-Off In Production.

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I personally don’t think it’s a question of Prado AND Infante in the starting lineup, it’s actually where they play in the field. Omar has played just about everywhere, and well too, so it wouldn’t be much of a stretch for him to just ‘make himself at home’ over at 3rd base. The reasoning is, I don’t really think the Braves should screw around w/ Prado… the guy was ‘locked in’ at second before he hit the DL. Confidence… and familiarity, it’s less disruptive to a team already experiencing turmoil on the roster. I agree they really aren’t gonna be able to do themselves and justice (short or long term) by going outside the organization just to ‘fill a spot’ at this point. Omar’s flexibility is HUGE, and so is the way he’s filled many roles – he’s played over at 3rd before and did a nice job when asked. Minimize the ‘flux’, stabilize what they have and just do it. If they need to get some of the other kids involved, so be it. Bottom line, they’re all professional athletes and capable of doing what’s asked of them…

The Phillies are due to cool off – just like the Braves did. Gonna be an interesting stretch run to the finish, that much is certain…

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Jo-Bu, its hard to go on a hot steak with bad wheels. Glaus walks with a limp and appears to be hurting badly.

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To the point — Adam LaRoche. He is hitting .271, with 74 RBI, playing with a terrible team. Arizona would trade him for future picks. Then Glaus to 3rd, if he has anything left, or platoon with Prado, or sit Glaus down to bring late innings power that Atlanta so desparately needs. (About his weak legs, why is he playing in the National League and with the Braves?) LaRoche plays 1st base, hits in the middle of the order, and hits well in the 2nd half of the season. He should NEVER have been let loose either of the 2 times.(So much for Bobby Cox protecting his players.) On top of which, he is well liked by many of the Braves (or those who are left) – just not Cox & Wren.
The sputtering machine called the Braves (who I love) will come apart by Labor day. They have a couple of utilty infielders (Prado & Infante) having career years + McCann & pitching — and not much else. Otherwise, erect a cardboard cutout of Hudson on the mound to scare the opponents, and have your other pitchers and BP guys lob a few balls to the plate. Sort of “chuck & duck”.
On another subject – what’s with the Atlanta city newspaper and its “vaunted” sports writer asking us to write a news article in lieu of him? Are they terminally lazy or spending August in Highlands, NC, collecting a pay check? The 2 should be pulling out the stops to drum up enthusiasm for the Braves who remain in 1st this late in the season.
And, there should a recall movement regarding Wren; his failure to help the Braves and his willingness to let fine players go for nothing in return.

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Since the Red Sox are toast, how about getting Adrian Beltre?

Mark, can you explain how this works with the waiver wire rules, etc. after the trade deadline?

I think Beltre is in the last year of a contract at something like $9 million (maybe 2011 is an option year). Dude can hit.

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Dawggie at 10:28: “This hasn’t been a playoff team to begin with. The starts have aligned the first 6 mos. of the season.”

Please tell me you are kidding right? Second most wins in the NL and NOT a playoff team. Whatever you’re smoking…lay off for a while.

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CHONE FIGGINS FOR K.K GOOD TRADE ITS ON MLB TRADE RUMORS .COM

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1. Otis Nixon CF
2. Mark Lemke 2B
3. Ron Gant LF
4. Fred McGriff 1B
5. David Justice RF
6. Terry Pendelton 3B
7. Eddie Perez C
8. Walt Weiss SS

Now that’s a winning team! And I say we put Kevin Milwood and that filthy curve on the mound and let Kerry Lightenberg shut em down in the 9th

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I would love to have Figgins because I think this year is an aboration but he is gonna make 9 mill a year for next 3 or 4 years. The cheap Braves are not going to pay anybody that kind of dough. Infante will be fine playing 2b, ss, or 3b. Move Heyward to 3 hole and hope for more power. The whole ball of wax comes down to production at 1b. If Glaus can’t help us with some power it is going to be tough to win playoff games. Maybe Urban Meyer can help us with some pop out in CF.

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MARK did you here the CHONE FIGGNS FOR K.K RUMORS

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some of you guys are actually calling for Infante to go back to the bench when Prado comes back in favor of Conrad or another option?? Are you nuts…It is going to be Prado and Infante, it is just a matter of who plays where and who hits where…

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You are kidding! Keep Prado at second when he gets back and Infante goes to third. Conrad stays on the bench. You make as FEW changes as possible. The only change that must be made is replacing Chipper. Just do that and nothing else.

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here are some options from mlb trade rumors:
Aramis Ramirez, Pedro Feliz, Wes Helms, Adam Kennedy, Jose Lopez, Brandon Inge, Jhonny Peralta, Ty Wigginton, Edwin Encarnacion, Melvin Mora and Willie Bloomquist

They also have a story about trading kk for figgins

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Too bad they can’t bring Blanco up.

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Mark,
Don’t you think it would be tough to get any decent player on waivers from American League? Don’t they get first choice within their league. I would think Yankees, Red Sox, or Rays would gobble up anybody decent before they got around to National league, then almost all teams have worse record than Braves so say Phillies could block.

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i think its a good trade frank been trying to move k.k anyway an CHONE FIGGINS will make our bench deeper

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I’d like to see us get Ramirez but thats doubtful.

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My lineup would be:

Infante 2B
Heyward RF
Prado 3B
McCann C
Glaus 1B
Diaz/Hinske – LF
Melky – CF
Gonzalez – SS

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Freeman is obviously the first baseman of the future. Why not bring him up and see what he can do? Rotate Prado, Glause and Conrad at third base. I believe that if the Braves were going to hang onto Glaus he would have to be moved to third base anyways.

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Aaron…what, no Greg Olson catching?

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offence? defence? I thought school was back in session.

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I wouldn’t trade a broken bat for K.K., gimme a break. There has to be a lot of cash going with KK if Seattle is considering taking on his mega contract.

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Why would the Braves not give Freeman a try by playing him – even if just for a week – to see what happens – instead of playing Glaus (not producing) on and on and on. Freeman might or might not produce. If he did – great. If he did not – then go back to Glaus. What do they have to lose. Who knows, they might try Freeman and him get hot for the remainder of the season – or at least produce for a few weeks until the pitchers adjusted to him.
But, of course this is typical Cox — For needed changes that are so obvious to most everyone, it takes Cox weeks, sometimes months, sometimes never to make them.

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The big question is — Can the Braves maintain their Division lead in spite of Cox’s blunders?

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wheres Vinny Castillo when ya need him, or not? this team will be fine with Infante filling in at third. I don’t see the argument to move Prado to 3rd. and keep Infante at 2nd. I feel Infante is a better 3rd baseman than 2ndbaseman precisely because his range is more apt for third. couple steps here, couple steps there. I agree with the blogman on the lineup and world series situations with raadman off the bench for those crucial game 7 situations.

I recall joe thurston and brooks conrad going head to head during spring training, whats thurston been doing this yr? and any chance he gets the call?

As a life long braves fan chippers play marked the end of my childhood affair with braves. Atlanta has been blessed to have a franchise player for so long. I was at the game in Ft. Lauderdale against the yankees when Chipper tore his acl the first time, legging out a grounder, collapsing shortly after hitting the bag. Best of luck to the good ole boy whom sported the high socks his first few years in the league.

10 will surely be next to 29 in left field.

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Wherever he plays, Prado should lead off. He’s done GREAT there. Infante is Superman – what a ball player!

If no Beltre, I vote keep Prado at 2nd and put Omar at third. Let’s face it, he can’t be any worse than Chipper was this year (14 errors).

Chipper is a Hall of Famer and has carried the Braves in the past but the old warhorse is has worn down and it showed again this year.

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I think having both Prado and Infante in the lineup will help both the offense and defense. I just hope Glaus can stay on his feet until Freeman shows up in September. I’m thankful that Glaus carried this team for six weeks, but he’s either very streaky or just worn out.

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Figgins is the type of player who could come through waivers because no one is going to want to be saddled with his contract. Since he’s on a multi-year deal though, it’s a bit of a risky move if he is truly on the decline.

My guess is that Wren will not pull the trigger, unless SEA throws in quite a few $$ in to the deal.

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I agree with you mark I would slowly work Prado back in the leadoff role though but Prado does seem tempting in the 3 hole as well

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Mark,

Your twitter buddy here.

Great column. I’m not sure I like your line-up though. Heyward deserves a shot at the 3-hole, given that’s where he’ll likely be for the future.

Why move Prado out of his lead-off spot? Remember when Bobby moved him there earlier this year? We started winning. Wouldn’t want to disrupt that.

The line-up should look like this (in my humble opinion):

Vs. Righties

1. Prado, 3B
2. Infante, 2B
3. Heyward, RF
4. McCann, C
5. Hinkse, LF
6. Gonzalez, SS
7. Ankiel, CF
8. Glaus, 1B
9. Tim Hudson, P

Vs. Lefties:
1. Prado, 3B
2. Infante, 2B
3. Heyward, RF
4. Diaz, LF
5. McCann, C
6. Gonzalez, SS
7. Ankiel, CF
8. Glaus, 1B
9. Tim Hudson, P

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Clusters —

The report on Schultz and scalp sunburn was false. It was started with TMZ and picked up by Perez Hilton (no relation to Paris) without ever being confirmed.

I can tell you conclusively that Jeff has been over at my house since his last column involved in a marathon beer-pong match, only pausing for bathroom breaks and Mark Bradley columns.

You heard it here first. Look out, ESPN.

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Chipper in a wheelchair.

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Not a bad idea with the line-up, but Prado has to stay at leadoff just bc of the way he plays the game. He is what I call a dirty player and those players need to lead games off. Infante 2nd, Mccann 3rd, Glaus 4(I know he has been cold and inconsistant, but if you are going to play the guy he has got to hit there – the same as chipper hitting 3 all year even though he has barely been at 250 for most of the year), Heyward 5th, Hinske/Diaz 6th, Gonzalez 7th, and my man Cabrera 8th or Ankiel

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Prado at 3rd. That’s his future unless we get a power hitter who can play well there. Then we have the option to move Martin back to 2nd. Infante has to play somewhere, so why not 2nd? Conrad off the bench. Time to platoon Hinske at first. Troy could use some rest. If he gets red-hot again, play him every day again. DH Glauss, Hinske in the World Series and play Prado at first, Conrad at third. I am fine with Jason hitting in the 3 hole. He’s clutch and would thrive there.

Really sorry about the great Chipper Jones. He was heading for a dynamite second half. Hall of Famer has brought us a lot of joy.

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I would pick up RAmirez also…………if Chipper retires, we use that money to pay him if Chipper stays we deal him………..We will have to pay him 5mill this season, but thats the cost of Chippers injury……….. If Braves think they can fill this up within the organization, they are sick………

Just think about it…….we were already thin………we just got thinner………..Chipper was not slugging, but he was getting on base………..a lot (11th on the league)…………. We strated trying to get offense months ago……… now we are weaker………..if we could get it fix within earlier, how can we get it fix within now??? We just cant.

Go get Aramis, pay the money and go for the ring……….. We need infante as a bench threat and backing up people………..

Secondly, we cant leave the line as thin as it is. What if Prado needs more time? or comes back and goes back into DL. What if Heyward needs to be DLed or Glaus? we have to be prepared for that…………and I think Aramis is the answer…………the only answer in my book………costs a lot, but any other pick up, will not fit on this team.

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Do we not have anyone in the minors that we can bring up?

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Striker, so Schultz was picked up by Perez Hilton on the beach?

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“MD” I like your lineup best, better than mine.

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Dont’ like Heyward in the 3. I know that’s where he will probably end up hitting for the majority of his career but he’s a rookie. If we are putting our hopes on a rookie in the 3 hole then we are screwed. Infante has done a nice job at leadoff while Prado has been out and Prado is the best hitter on the team and one of the best in the NL. Move Diaz up to the 5 (considering he’s a hitting machine) and drop Glaus to 6th or 7th.

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Bradley, agreed, I like Prado. But I might put Heyward in the 3rd hole even though I know sometimes he’s too patient when he needs to get a hit.

What about this?

Start Infante and Prado….but be sure to pick up a new bench player. Probably better than Hicks. The idea is Freeman so we can rest Glaus, but I don’t see that happening.

So no on a trade for a starter, but yes on a trade for a decent backup.

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Infante 2B
Pardo 3B
Hayward RF
McCann C
Gonzalas SS
Cabrera CF
Diaz LF
Hienke 1B
That’s all I got to say!

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They’re all good kids.

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Well I guess I’m the only one who thinks Betemit would really strengthen our bench while Infante starts.

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Sea Bass? Anyone care to explain that one?

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Braves 73 – doubt Bobby would go with a straight platoon at 3B with Conrad and Infante because of how well Infante his right handers (I think his avg vs RHP is about .365).

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Ankiel hits righties pretty good. He is down right terrible against lefties and its one of BC mystifying moves that he even starts against lefties.

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Darn, quit clamoring for Freedie Freeman folks…he’ll be here soon enough…as in 3 weeks! No way does he fill the need to play 3B, we have Hinske and Glaus at 1B till then. Just stop it. A 20 year old kid is NOT the answer at 1B RIGHT NOW. No need to put that kind of pressure on the kid in the middle of the pennant run. He will be the starting 1B for the 2011 season barring injury or a terrible spring training (which is highly unlikely).

Onto A. Ramirez from the Cubs…NO WAY…have you seen his contract???

Figgins…as many have said here…only way it happens is if SEATTLE eats about half the salary coming to him in the next 4 years and they take Kenshin off the Braves hands (therefore saving face infront of the Japanese media/baseball folks and ridding them of his upcoming last year contractually). Plus Kawakami will fit well with the large Asian fan following of the M’s (until he starts losing games for them that is)

I don’t think Chipper has played his last game at 3B for the Braves, so the versatility to play Figgins in the OF helps a potential move to acquire him.

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Just Me

August 13th, 2010
11:28 am
If we bring Freeman up it should not be in a platoon situation and then Glaus should move back to 3rd base. Keep the extra strength off the bench.

Glaus does not have the legs for 3rd anymore with his knees the way they are. It takes a lot of range to play 3rd and Bobby Cox’s playing career ended for that very reason.

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Jo-Bu, its hard to go on a hot steak with bad wheels. Glaus walks with a limp and appears to be hurting badly.

Not if you are knocking ‘em out of the ball park. As long as he can touch them all, you don’t need wheels. But you do need a healthy set of knees.

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“M B I can’t believe that you would still insert Hayward in the #2 hole!”

John d, think you could phrase that a little more delicately?

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haystackis a prototypical4-3 ground out

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I think a platoon effort at 3rd depending on the pitcher (opposing) would work out just fine.

p.s. Can Glaus and Free the Freebird!

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I agree with Voice of Reason. He’s got the right line up

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Figgins for KK and Farnsworth works for me. Put Figgins in the lead off spot with his speed, and we have a new dimension to the Braves offense. But please no Pedro Feliz, Ty Wiggington, etc. for prospects.

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I agree with the guy who said lets trade for scott rolen. maybe the cardinals will take Kenchin Kawkazi and nate maclouth; of course they would have to kick in some salary money…

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Rolen plays for the Reds

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Figgins for Farnsworth and Kawakami would be robbery. The Braves don’t make such trade unless they are the victims. For the Braves to make such a trade, they would insist on including Randall Delgado and Julio Teheran.

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think the braves need to stock the minors with something besides pitchers like power hitting 3rd basemen outfielders that can run and catch start drafting at positiuns sometimes

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I say:
Glaus to 3rd split time with Omar
Bring up Freeman to play 1st

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realistically, when could Chipper be back? any way he could be back at start of next season?

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Prado

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Low risk move: Sign Hank Blalock on the cheap.

Do it, Wren.

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Prado is going to be out for the rest of August and then some. His broken finger on his right throwing hand will take two months to be back to being good again. There is no way he can throw across the diamond from third or second for that matter until he is completely healed. First base might be easier from a throwing standpoint but he still has to be able to comfortably grip the bat and absorb the shock of contact.
If I am right, the only first rate position players available on the roster are McCann/Ross and Infante. Something has to give if the Braves are to have a chance to make the playoffs in the final quarter of the season. At this moment we have six positions to fill, five once Prado is back to full strength. The flawed crowd of Gonzalez, Heywood, Diaz, Hinske, Glaus, Ankiel, Conrad, Hernandez and Cabrera wouldn’t make it as regulars on virtually any of the top NL and AL contenders. Add Moylan and Lowe to the list and you end up with 11 paper tigers on a 25 man roster that will be out of contention unless the Braves make a number of significant acquisitions, right away.
Draft picks, salary absorption, prospect give ups and Chipper’s 2010 DL insurance are the coin of the realm to make necessary changes for 2010. Standing pat or feeble moves won’t cut it. McCann and Infante and the best pitching staff can’t bridge the gaping gap.

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and no minor league help at all huh

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All of you suggesting Glaus move to 3rd haven’t been watching and know nothing about baseball.

Glaus has got no knees left. He plays 1st like he’s got his feet in buckets of cement. Putting him at 3rd would be a total.

At best, he needs to stay at 1st and get every other day off. Is he even batting .250? Let him ride the bench more often.

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Wow Mark….I can honestly say this is the most I have ever agreed with you. You nailed this one, Prado at 3rd and batting 3rd. To all the “Heyward should be batting 3rd” sayers…he’ll be there in the future but for right now our line up would be much more potent putting him in the 2 hole. For one you break up the righties at the top of the line up and you break up the lefties in the middle of the line up…….Just think about it, top of the ninth and it’s the braves top of the order they’ll either have to use a tough righty against Heyward or keep a tough lefty in against prado. Either that, or they can burn through 3 pitchers. Instead of brining in a righty against Infante and Prado, then switching over to a lefty to face Heyward, McCann and Hinske.

GOOD CALL MARK

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My pick for third base is Gonzalez. He hits well but then gives up a run in the field. Move him to third.

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Id have Troy Glaus as the DH in the WS with Brooks at 3rd, Prado at 1st and Infante at 2rd….

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All I know is Chipper doesn’t need to let his decision drag out. He should let the Braves know if he plans to come back by the Winter Meetings because as long as there is a chance they may have to pay his 14 million $ salary next year they are limited in finding a replacement. As far as this topic, put Infante at 3rd and keep on rolling.

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real teams don’t bat catcher at cleanup. cmon mark you know better.

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Also, until Prado comes back I think Hinske should get the start at 3rd. He’s played over 400 games there, and if the Panda can play 3rd I’m sure Hinske can. Conrad just isn’t a very good everyday starter. Today’s lineup:
1 Infante
2 Heyward
3 Melky (LF)
4 McCann
5 Glaus
6 Hinske
7 Gonzo
8 Ankiel

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Something to consider (forgive if someone else has brought this up — I haven’t digested all the comments here): I think some of Gonzo’s fielding difficulties of late MIGHT be related to the fact that Prado’s not at second. I can’t think of any other expanation….other than aberration.

And I’m still beating the drum at BillyW is tipping his pitches. Wish he’d stop.

That is all. Go Braves.

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The Cubs have a 3b with 16 hrs on waivers. The D-backs have a 3b on waivers with 26 hrs. Why not?

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I see a lot of folks saying move Heyward to the 3 hole, but what about toying with Alex Gonzalez there?? I like the dynamic of J-Hey in the 2-hole and let’s not forget, Gonzalez came to Atlanta and right away became the team’s HR leader. Plus, he’s on pace to set a new career high this year. That keeps solid protection in the order for J-Hey while also mixing up righty/lefty.

I’m all for having Prado at 3B and Infante at 2B, and I agree Conrad should continue coming off the bench to hunt fastballs.. but let’s maybe try this:

Prado 3B; Heyward RF; Gonzalez SS; McCann C; Glaus/Hinske 1B; Infante 2B; Diaz/Hinske LF; Cabrera/Ankiel CF; (Pitcher) and yes, make Conrad the DH in the W.S. haha!

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Add the “Put Glaus on the bench and call up Freeman” option to the poll please. Glaus hobbles around out there like someone caught in a bear trap, and I don’t think he could walk up and hit me with a bat right now (unless it would somehow result in a double play).

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ben

August 13th, 2010
2:05 pm
***********************************************
What’d you do, take McCann out of the lineup…..lol…….???

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Put Chipper in a wheelchair at third. He can still hit.

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Bradley, I like ur batting order. gotta see if martin wants to stay a 2B though(at least thru this yr)

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Omar Infante made it to the All-Star game as a, wait for it, utility man. That means his All-Star caliber value lies in his ability to play a variety of positions, including third base. Martin is our second baseman. Let’s utilize our All-Star utility player at third and keep our All-Star second baseman at second base.

Love the idea of Infante batting lead-off and Prado moving to the three spot!

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If Bobby really wanted to spice things up, he should try and see what the Nationals want for Dunn, and move him to 1st and Glaus to 3rd. Now that would really be a World series lineup:

1. Infante/Prado-2nd
2. Heyward-RF
3. Dunn-1st
4. Mcann-C
5. Glaus-3rd
6. Gonzalez-SS
7. Hinske/Diaz-RF
8. Ankiel/Melky-CF
9. Hudson-P

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I was looking at the schedule and with the exception of the 2-3 game sets on the road against Chicago and Colorado. I think we play it week by week, until September with the only option being an early Freeman call-up. Doesn’t make sense to trade away talent when we are leading our division.

I did like the comment made by John about immediately calling up Freeman to give Glaus some rest, especially since he could use a month of rest for the final two week stretch, when the division will most likely be decided with the 6 games against Philly. However that does not appear likely and I think we can make it to September, still in first, call up some youngsters and let the old guys rest up for October.

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**** PICK UP ADAM DUNN TO PLAY 1st…MOVE GLAUS TO 3B TO SHARE TIME WITH INFANTE. DO IT WREN! ****

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I wonder if Pendleton, after seeing Chipper go down, was saying to himself…”well, there goes my job.” He has to know if Chipper hangs around in the dugout the remainder of the season(which I hope he does) guys will be coming to him behind TP’s back getting advise on hitting. And hopefully Chipper will eventually become the hitting coach and who knows, maybe manager one day. Be nice to see.

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Players have been going to Chipper all year. just ask them. TP is deadwood.

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Your lineup is perfect. Prado has the pop for 3rd spot and pressure doesn’t seem to bother him. Heyward doesn’t need the extra pressure, especially to hit for more power. I’m also not convinced his thumb is 100% or he would be hitting better & for more power. Is Diaz that bad against RHP?

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Chone Figgins would be a good addition to the team…he was an all star just a couple of yrs ago and he brings speed to the team.He got a bad rap for getting into that fight with his ex manager Wakamatsu, but the Mariners firing Wakamatsu goes to show that they dont feel like Figgins is a troublemaker, besides Figgins never had problems with Scioscia in anaheim. Figgins a good element to add to the team.

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Nobody can replace Chipper.

But, I guess someone has to for the rest of this year. I’m still holding out hope that after he rehabs he comes back next year so he can go out on this feet! But I’ll respect whatever decision he makes. Sad thing is, I was watching the Tom Glavine luncheon and Chipper seemed so relaxed and happy…then this happens. He is still integral to the success of this team, though, we need his presence big time so I hope he is around ALOT. I’d go with Martin at 3rd, Omar at 2nd and Brooksie rotating in relief of those 2 positions. Go Braves, I still think this team can do it.

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That was well written Mr. Bradley.

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DawginLex

August 13th, 2010
3:31 pm
“Graig Nettles?”

I love it, but you’re way off.

Bob Horner

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Glaus back to third. Freeman to first.

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Why are people still using batting average to make points when much better metrics exist? Figgins and Wigginton are better players than Infante. And adding one of them would enable Infante to contribute off the bench.

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I think its the last guaranteed contract year and they have to pay him?

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The Braves may need to think long term on this one. If Chipper doesn’t come back and they do not have someone in there farm system who is ready to play at the major league level then we need to make a trade to get a proven, productive player. Infante could fill in at 3rd but may not be the answer long term. The winter meetings are going to be very interesting.

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bigcalidawg,

I was at horner’s first game. I remember the days when you could leave 3 tickets to a Braves game on someone’s windshield and come back and there would be 8 more.

Chuck “We are going to have a parade right down Peachtree” Tanner.

Joe torre gave us hope and we fired him.

I’m glad times have changed and now the Braves are viewed as the classy franchise. That is why Bobby Valentine would never fit in here.

Maddux, Smoltz and Glavine would never allow it.

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First, the Braves don’t need The disruption of Figgins. Even Escobar didn’t start a fight in the dugout. Second, what if Freeman is called up and he goes 0 for August, what then?

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I think everyone needs to get off of Glaus. He was a bargain when he was tearing it up and carrying the team and he’s still a bargain. We should have the financial flexibility to add someone now if that person is out there. We have that flexibility because of the Glaus deal. He has given us more than our money’s worth already and anything he can give us from this point on is a bonus. Now, that said, I think we have to add some power from somewhere….Who in this lineup scares the opposition? We need to add it somewhere….even if it’s the OF.

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I agree with Marcus Bradlius. Prado to 3B, Infante remains in the lineup at 2B, and Conrad to be a backup. If anyone gets hurt, though, the Braves will have some trouble. Especially if either Infante or Gonzalez get hurt, the Braves will be very thin.

Incidentally, why didn’t Diory Hernandez get called up instead of the other guy?

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Switch Prado or Infante between 1 & 2 all you want, just put Jason where he will remain from now on, in the 3 Spot then let McCann bat in the 4th spot. Then whatever moves we make, whether calling someone up or going out & picking up whatever we can get, applies to changing the rest of the lineup. Keep it simple at the beginning of the order.

Manuel over in Philly has been juggling all season, but doesn’t do too much with the top of his order if they are healthy. I always thought one reason for the 90s Braves success came from a solid first 4 in the order. Good lead-off guys, followed by decent hitting & sprinkle in a little power in the first 4. Do that & you’ve got the same old southern recipe for winning, because anything later on in the lineup is the gravy on top !!!

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Prado. Bat him third. Before the injury, he was starting to hit with power.

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Well thinking toward the future, because I think the rehabbing will take a mental toll on Chipper. We better do something to address our future at 3rd, because down on the farm Donell Linares & Wes Timmons are not the answer so far. Unless the other minor league 3rd basemen, Nelson, Sime, or Kreke come out of nowhere we need to examine the future of 3rd base.

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Bradleys ” 8 Reasons” CURSE is in full effect.

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1. Prado 3B
2. Infante 2B
3. Heyward RF
4. McCann C
5. Diaz or Hinske LF
6. Gonzalez SS
7. Glaus 1B
8. Ankiel or Cabrera CF

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Hey Mark can you ask Mac or somebody if he could get all the braves players who homer to use Chippers hand gesture that he does?

Wouldnt send a chill down your spine seeing that after every homer?

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YOGA!! Chipper you need to try YOGA. If you did it maybe 5 years ago you would not have the lil nagging streches and pulls. The ACL thing will need to be flexible in the future if you want to keep playing.

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Mark: if you’re letting me be the manager, does that mean you’ve already fired Bobby? And Pendleton?

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I have no problem with Prado at 3b and Infante at 2nd IF Prado is OK physically. Short of a trade for Zimmerman, Cuddyer (sp?) or Uggla, that would do allright. BUT, then the question is: Who replaces Infante in the very valuable role he has played for the Braves this year? A trade for Figgns could accomplish that. But trading away KK means, with Medlin hurting, a not-so-deep rotation. I would prefer to see a trade for a veteran thirdbaseman with some power who could bridge the gap until the farm system produces the next 3b (Leonard?) If Chipper comes back next year, Wonderful!

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Make a trade for now and the future. Go get Uggla for 2B and play Prado at 3B. Keep Omar and Conrad as utility players.

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By the way, unless he’s totally unable to hit, why doesn’t Chipper forego the surgery, go on the DL for now, come back on Sept 1 when the rosters expand. Then provide a Kurt Gibson or Shilling bloody sock moment in the final stretch drive or playoffs. And then retire a hero. I do see him helping the team in 2011. He will be a $14 M hit on the team next year

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i have been frustrated a bit with the braves this year and also very excited about them at times also and i believe that they should still get someone else in the outfield and let hinske play 3rd alittle also and bring up freddie freeman. because if hinkse is playing alittle more it helps melky in the line up and i think he has been underestimated this year alittle and he is also a switch hitter that has postseason success and the braves need that going down the stretch and i think infante is better when not playing every single day at one placeand more being a spot player

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agree with bozz

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Mark, I thought your question was, who should replace chipper at third. It seems that half of the responses thought the question was, ” What should the new lineup be with chipper out”

I think the Braves need to go out and get someone that has played third, With that said, I see where Wiggingtyon has been put on waivers. If he clears, he is the best choice He has a 273avg and 18 hrs for 2010. That would make him the leader for the braves. Second choice would be to check out Hank Blalock. He has been released by Tampa without getting much of a chance to play regular. In 2008 he had a 277 avg with 25 hrs and is only 30 years old (if his health is O.K.) Both of these players have a higher fielding percentage than Chipper. Third choice would be Garrett Atkins. In 2008 his avg was 286, with 21 Hrs and I understand he will take a minor league contract. I will let Bobby Cox fill out the lineup.

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Bob Horner still has a sweet swing. Maybe he can give us a game for a Hamburger on Tuesday.

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I agree with Mike S above. Prado should be in the 2-hole. We’ve missed countless RBI opportunities moving him to lead-off, IMO. And there’s no denying Infante has a valuable bat and is performing admirably in the lead-off role.
Prado’s defense is a bit better, and it’s a toss-up as to which base he should be on. Covering the ground balls up the middle might be the best place for him, still.

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Although I’d love to see Chipper back in 2011, I have no problem seeing him go out this way. He’s been batting like the days of yore, and that throw was a spectacular play. It was a blaze of glory. He’d be going out near the top of his game, and no one would argue that he’d worn out his welcome, although that was clearly a concern of his a few months ago.
Godspeed, Chipper. Hope to see you in April.

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Ya know, for all the whining that “fans” do about this team, we are approaching 20 games over .500 and appear to be a pretty damn good team. Do we have a 40 home run hitter? no. are we always exciting? no. but dammit we’re winning, and I for one, am enjoying the hell out of this season.

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Nevermind, works now!

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