There’s a new leader in the clubhouse, and he’s Brian McCann
Brian McCann at work: A homer on Sunday, then another on Monday. (AP photo)
A torch has been passed. It wasn’t supposed to happen quite so soon, but a grab-and-whirl-and-throw one dark night in Houston revved the timetable. We’re seeing the team that for more than a decade has belonged to Larry Wayne Jones Jr. being shouldered by Brian Michael McCann.
On Sunday he hit the walk-off homer against Florida. (OK, actually a stop-at-second-and-wait-a-bit walk-off. Still counted.) On Monday he hoisted another home run, this one a no-doubter, and also dropped an actual bunt single against the Mets. Since the All-Star break, McCann is hitting .311 with 10 homers and 33 RBI’s, as opposed to .267 with 10 and 37 before it. And his team has needed every blessed hit.
The guy who has carried the Braves for more than a decade was lost to a torn knee ligament. The guy who carried them through May and into June, the stopgap Troy Glaus, has been dispatched to Class AAA. Jason Heyward is an undeniable presence — he had four hits and four RBI’s Monday night — but he’s also a rookie. With so much in flux this wild season, the Braves needed someone of both seasoning and gravitas to light the way. On cue, B-Mac has become the beacon.
It just isn’t that he’s the most accomplished Brave still standing; it’s that McCann has grown into his role in a way we weren’t always certain he would. He was considered the lesser of the famous Gwinnett duo when he arrived in 2005, the famous Jeff Francoeur being the shining light and Sports Illustrated star, and the younger McCann seemed disinclined to offer more than boilerplate responses to the media. Put simply, he didn’t act as if he wanted to be The Man.
But now he is, and he’s wearing it well. He’s more forthcoming, more of a spokesperson. Clearly he has learned from being around Chipper, whose locker sits just across the doorway at the far end of the clubhouse, that a player of such portfolio bears certain responsibilities off the field as well. Even before Chipper was lost, McCann had become the junior spokesman, and now he’s the senior man. Indeed, he’s the last healthy everyday Brave (meaning a non-pitcher) of uninterrupted tenure to have played when last this club graced the postseason.
“You’ve got to know your place,” said McCann, speaking after Monday’s walkaway victory. “When I first came up, mine was to show up on the field and keep my mouth shut and play the game … When you’re young, you’re supposed to be seen but keep quiet.”
And now? “As you get older, you feel a little more sure of yourself. And you can be a little more yourself with [the media].”
Evidence to the contrary, McCann isn’t ready to pronounce himself a leader. (He’s still just 26, we must note.) “We’ve got so many great players in here,” he said. “Derrek Lee has won a World Series. Tim Hudson has been a great pitcher. I’m still learning this game from them. I look up to those guys.”
That said, there’s no active Brave who commands more respect among his mates. McCann plays the toughest position, gets some of the biggest hits and stands now as the constant in a lineup that has undergone monthly alterations. Again, he doesn’t see it that way: “We’ve got Martin Prado and Jason Heyward and Omar Infante, who could win a batting title.”
The theme of this happy season has been that the Braves are a team of No Stars. But Brian McCann is a star. If these Braves play their way into the World Series, it’s McCann — whose bases-loaded double made the National League a winner and him the All-Star Game’s MVP — who ensured that it will commence at Turner Field. It’s McCann who stands as the finest catcher in his league, McCann who ranks with Minnesota’s Joe Mauer as the best in the business.
Someday this will be Jason Heyward’s team, perhaps in joint ownership with Freddie Freeman, but for now it belongs to the big man with the blond beard, the man who stepped up when the great Chipper Jones went down. It belongs to Brian McCann.
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297 comments Add your comment
Big Kev
August 30th, 2010
11:03 pm
First.
Darryl Blackberry
August 30th, 2010
11:05 pm
Nice.
shawn
August 30th, 2010
11:06 pm
First…what a great night all around..especially J-Hay
Big Kev
August 30th, 2010
11:06 pm
Joe Mauer* not Maurer
kurula
August 30th, 2010
11:06 pm
well said. great article.
Willy
August 30th, 2010
11:10 pm
What? Did someone just suggest I’m hearing voices?
Rimfire
August 30th, 2010
11:11 pm
B Mac a is Rock to the entire group.
Go Braves!
Mark Bradley
August 30th, 2010
11:12 pm
Kudos, Big Kev. And thanks for copy-editing.
Remarkable
August 30th, 2010
11:13 pm
The Braves needed a new voice now that Chipper is hurt. It had to be an everyday player. It had to be someone who has been with the team more than a year or two. It had to be Brian. Right?
McCann's the Man
August 30th, 2010
11:14 pm
For the first time, I can honestly say that I enjoyed every word of a Mark Bradley article. I just hope this doesn’t jinx the season or make the world come to an end or a blackhole open…you know something terrible
renegade#1
August 30th, 2010
11:14 pm
Brian McCann ; I reckon he’ll do til they find someone better.Probably take a while though. Who ya gone find better?
nate dawg
August 30th, 2010
11:15 pm
excellent article mark. I couldn’t agree with you more. Mac at this point in his career does sound deferential, which I believe is a good thing! He’s still a kid, and over time, this will be his team along with J-Hey. Here are the three the leaders that I think of with regards to this year’s team:
Starting Rotation: Huddy
Bullpen: Wags
Lineup: Mac
Truthiness
August 30th, 2010
11:16 pm
McCann is what a ballplayer should be. Nicely said.
Darryl Blackberry
August 30th, 2010
11:17 pm
FYI, everyone: Kuroda’s pitching a no-no against the Phils through five.
Headley Lamar
August 30th, 2010
11:19 pm
HR for the Dodgers.
3-0
Mark Bradley
August 30th, 2010
11:20 pm
Going to listen to it now, Darryl Blackberry.
Thanks again for hanging with me, folks. A long good night was had … at least by me.
Headley Lamar
August 30th, 2010
11:22 pm
Ditto
Heath
August 30th, 2010
11:22 pm
Gotta catch up on my Kathleen Turner movies.
kreedham
August 30th, 2010
11:25 pm
A few years ago both McCann and Franceour were both playing for the Rome Braves. All the talk was about Jeff so I asked a Rome Brave employee I knew something about Frannie…he said no, McCann was the star and would be the best (on that Rome team) as a major leaguer!
robdawg08
August 30th, 2010
11:27 pm
Derrek Lee please take extra bp er sommin’ you are plain awful ! Wednesday won’t come soon enough so freeman can get a shot at 1B.
Great game for Heyward. We need more of that more often from him.
I guess Oliver Perez is the Mets version of Kenshin Kawakami ?
robdawg08
August 30th, 2010
11:29 pm
Halladay pitching for Phillies too.
Innocent Bystander
August 30th, 2010
11:30 pm
Nicely written, Mark. Will this run in the print version? I think my parents would really enjoy this article, but they aren’t as keen on the “dot-com” version of the AJC.
Chris from the Rock
August 30th, 2010
11:32 pm
Nice piece, Mr. Bradley. Go Braves!
Chris from the Rock
August 30th, 2010
11:34 pm
Robdawg, that’s an insult to KK. He’s much better than Ollie, and he makes $5MM less a year I might add.
Jerek Deter
August 30th, 2010
11:35 pm
Perfecto long gone, but the no-hitter is intact through six against the Phillies in L.A….
robdawg08
August 30th, 2010
11:42 pm
Perez & KK are identical. Both were starters and both have been relegated to not pitching (29 days for Perez until tonight). Both were highly paid. Both suck.
Turtsnap
August 30th, 2010
11:52 pm
No-No through 7…. SWEET!!
ScottBravesfan
August 30th, 2010
11:54 pm
I have to say this is the best thing that I have read by Mark Bradley. Awesome job Mark.
Christopher Chance
August 30th, 2010
11:56 pm
Kuroda, the Dodgers starting pitcher who had not had a hit all season long, gets his first hit of the season.
Meanwhile, Kuroda hasnt given up a hit through 7 innings.
Red Clay Bulldogs
August 30th, 2010
11:57 pm
http://www.Redclaykennels.com
American Bulldog puppies
100% Johnson Bloodline Breeding
5 Pups Total:
3 Males and 2 Females:
Herschel Talker
August 30th, 2010
11:59 pm
MB:
Have you given up on the possibility of Jeff Francoeur ever being the clubhouse leader?
HT
GovClintonTyree
August 31st, 2010
12:02 am
Enter your comments here
Mark Bradley
August 31st, 2010
12:02 am
It should run in the print edition, Innocent Bystander.
Christopher Chance
August 31st, 2010
12:05 am
Here’s an ironic fact. For all the ripping that Jeff Francoeur got for turning down the Braves long term contract……….Francoeur only made $325K less than McCann did in 2009….and only $700K less in 2010 than McCann.
McCann is scheduled to make $6.5 mil in 2011. With Beltran slow recovering from his knee injury and the uncertain status of Jason Bay…..chances are Jeff Francoeur will be tendered a contract by the Mets for 2011. Given that he’s making $5 mil this year, if Francouer can finish the year with a decent September, then he will be in line to get a raise through arbitration that will push his 2011 pay past the $6.5 mil that McCann will be making.
Brian McCann is easily twice the player that Francoeur is. Yet Francouer is getting paid like he’s on McCann’s level.
Bat Masterson
August 31st, 2010
12:14 am
Good call on Heap Mark. That’s what I said about him a month ago.
Bat Masterson
August 31st, 2010
12:15 am
Good work too, by the way.
Harpie
August 31st, 2010
12:20 am
Prado for “team leader”; if we have to have a leader, let’s have someone who’s in shape, not a fat -ass (who also can’t catch and can’t throw )…
rekingball
August 31st, 2010
12:36 am
Very good article MB. I think that McCann is probably the, no IS the best all-around catcher in MLB today.
Just think how good he is going to be, when he finally gets his eyes fixed, and he can SEE again.
rekingball
August 31st, 2010
12:40 am
Phillies lose.
rekingball
August 31st, 2010
12:45 am
Phillies 3 back now. Lose 3-o. The jaggernaut got 1 hit.
russell yow
August 31st, 2010
12:54 am
yes, yes and more yes !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Stanley Crowe
August 31st, 2010
1:00 am
It was very encouraging to see the Braves play tonight — they played with real intensity, and you saw it on the base-paths. Jason and Omar were electric — that score from first on a single: that’s the kind of thing that makes you think we’ve got something here. Jurrjens didn’t have his best stuff, but he hung in and got the tough hitters out. Now I see that the Phillies lost — Halliday out-pitched by Kuroda. I look forward to Minor’s effort tomorrow — with perhaps a little pressure off him.
Selleck Waterfall Sandwich
August 31st, 2010
1:26 am
Things that are great:
1) Selleck
2) Waterfalls
3) Sandwiches
4) Atlanta Braves
5) Brian McCann
6) This article
Brave Filipino
August 31st, 2010
1:28 am
I have been waiting for this moment for more than 3 years. Go braves.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:00 am
Good article, Mark. Too bad Clusters isn’t here to enjoy.
wade
August 31st, 2010
2:05 am
Glad to have a leader like Brian. He is a very classy person. He will be one of the greats. This team is special. Like Diaz said a team of Destiny.
Mike
August 31st, 2010
2:08 am
If McCann made 325K and 700K more money in ‘09 and ‘10 than Jeff (Prima Donna) Francoeur then he will make more than 1M more dollars than the Prima Donna. That is significant money in my book. Francoeur will never be the ballplayer nor will he ever make as much as McCann. The Prima Donna will be lucky if he is still in the majors in 5 years. Already shown his true colors. That’s why the Braves got rid of him.
John Leonard Omar233
August 31st, 2010
2:52 am
This Braves team “Could go all the way”
Ross
August 31st, 2010
3:24 am
Oh please – if he’s leading this team then I’m 3 homers from Bonds. He’s a mediocre defensive catcher, he goes on these mini-streaks about 3 times a season, in between the mediocre hitting spells that last weeks upon weeks. His problems, to be sure, are mental – giant cuts, inability to grip a bat that is too big for him to swing and frequently ends up in the stands as a result, head all over the place – yes he connects occasionally and for some reason, when it seems to matter most – but the team would be better served if he’d forget long balls, get a smaller bat that he can swing with speed, and practice practice practice throwing out runners at second, not to mention third.
tjhook
August 31st, 2010
3:41 am
McCann is the man for this reason: Everyone TRUSTS him. Rare are the times that we see Brian batting with men on base and don’t think he will do something good. Only Prado and Heyward give us anything comparable. I believe Heyward will be the bigger star, but mcCann helps ground the team. I hope he knows that.
Reggie
August 31st, 2010
4:39 am
If Mccann doesnt hit that homerun to beat the Marlins then this article isnt even written so what does that tell you? Im not even sure he’s the best catcher on the team i.e David Ross. The leader is Prado by far
Coolest in the Clutch
August 31st, 2010
6:39 am
.
————————–
Nesbitt for Heisman
————————–
.
. . . . Tech to unveil Nesbitt Heisman campaign TODAY !
Brandon
August 31st, 2010
7:13 am
Tim Hudson was on that last playoff team as well. You said McCann is the last tenured player to be on that team
jarvis
August 31st, 2010
7:17 am
Good luck with that Nesbitt thing. Might as well have announced that McCann’s campaign for Heisman starts today. He’s about as likely to win it.
“If Mccann doesnt hit that homerun to beat the Marlins “……if the queen had balls she’d be the king. What’s your point?
Larry
August 31st, 2010
7:20 am
Chipper is not and was NEVER the team leader! First there was Terry Pendleton and David Justice, then Brian Jordan and Andres Gallaraga, and frankly other than perhaps Smoltz this team hasn’t had a true clubhouse leader in 10 seasons. McCann is not a natural leader but does lead by being productive and always in the lineup–something Chipper hasn’t been able to do for many years due to ingrown toenails, acid indigestion and and several hundred sore (fill in the blank)’s.
I believe both Marteen Prado and Brian McCann lead best by example. Both are solid, play hurt every day, and genuinely humble and grateful to be in the bigs.
jeffrey d
August 31st, 2010
7:48 am
Larry – how do you know what goes on in the Braves clubhouse? How do you know McCann is “not a natural leader”?
I’ve heard he’s quite the leader.
cattledawg
August 31st, 2010
8:05 am
I kinda feel like this is Infantes team.
Elliptical Logician
August 31st, 2010
8:06 am
Lowe’s elbow is barking; Braves called up KK yesterday. I’m betting that Bobby’s going to throw Tora Torakami in Lowe’s place in the rotation.
Brownie
August 31st, 2010
8:11 am
Many of you are missing the primary point of this article, which is that Mac is the new “leader” of this team. Too many negative comments about his weight, his defense, swinging too hard, etc.
Having said that, I do think he overswings too often, doesn’t have a really accurate arm throwing runners out, and is somewhat overweight….but….he is providing GREAT leadership where it counts: attitude and hard work.
He has been become more vocal, and his personality is perfect for what the Braves typically have looked for. They don’t want blow-hards or ego-maniacs.
Right now, you’d have to say Prado, Infante and Heyward are better ballplayers, but they aren’t team leaders…..YET. Future looks very strong for this team.
Dean
August 31st, 2010
8:19 am
Larry @ 0720:
Team “Leaders” don’t trot off the field in the middle of an inning because they disagreed with a manager’s decision NOT to throw at a batter. Ask T.P about that day. Bobby Cox obviously forgave him. I’ve never forgotten it.
Bailer
August 31st, 2010
8:20 am
This is suppose to be a fun page, and first thing some dumb a$$ is correcting the spelling of someones name. PLEASE!!!
Christopher Chance
August 31st, 2010
8:24 am
Mike…….your 2:08am post misses the point. To you and I……a $1 mil difference in salary over a 2 year period is a big difference. However when it comes to compensating Major Leaguers like McCann and Francoeur…..$1 mil isnt much of a difference at all.
My point all along is that for all the ripping that Francoeur got for turning down the Braves long term contract offer back in 2007…..he’s not that far behind McCann in compensation….despite not even coming close to being the hitter that McCann is.
In 2009 and 2010, McCann made $9.4 mil, while Francoeur made $8.375 mil. Is McCann only $1 mil the better ball player than Francoeur has been COMBINED over the past 2 years? Of course not. However, Francoeur is being compensated like he’s close to being on McCann’s level.
And like I said in my last post, McCann is due to make $6.5 mil in 2011. Given the Mets outfield situation…..if Francoeur has a decent September (which he could very well because he’ll be playing a lot and hitting against a bunch of September call-ups on non-contending teams)…..then he could very well be in line to surpass the $6.5 mil through arbitration that McCann is scheduled to make in 2011.
Now how fair is that? It just shows that when it came down to it, despite not coming close to being in McCann’s league as a player……..Francoeur’s gamble has turned out to not hurt him too much. He gambled on his ability showing that he’s worth a mega contract……instead, he’s getting Brian McCann money (even though he isnt producing like McCann).
Joey
August 31st, 2010
8:26 am
I agree, Larry, in that to be a leader, one must lead by example. Chipper has not set a good example in several ways. John Smoltz called him out in public about his penchant for sitting out games with his incredibly numerous “strains” and “pulls.”
His off-season (non-) conditioning has also been suspect by many, which is a shame when you consider that it is MLB that has enriched him beyond belief, not hunting and golfing.
I can think of no better leader of the Braves for the next decade than Mac. He’s not the best catcher in the majors, but he’s is one of the top 4 or 5. He’s tough. He’s got one sweet swing. And he comes across as a kid who is thankful to be playing a game for a living.
Christopher Chance
August 31st, 2010
8:31 am
As long as Brian McCann continues to rake at the plate……..then I can live with his defensive defencies.
He’s not the best “overall” catcher in baseball. However, he’s serviceable enough behind the plate where he can occasionally throw out a runner and from all reports, calls a good game behind the plate.
He is one of the worst catchers in baseball at blocking balls in the dirt (he relies on the back hand stop too much, instead of shifting his fat A$$ over to block the ball with his body). Plus his accuracy on nailing runners can be atrocious at times.
Still, he more than makes up for his bad defense with his ability to knock in runs and deliver the clutch hit. Knowing that, I can live with his defensive blunders from time to time. Other than Joe Mauer, I cant think of any other catch I’d rather have than Brian McCann.
Christopher Chance
August 31st, 2010
8:34 am
Also, too much is put on “being a leader”. Isnt that what the freaking manager is supposed to do?
I want players who can knock in runs and help the Braves win games. The 1977-1978 Yankees didnt exactly have great clubhouse chemistry, lol. However they managed to win the World Series both years.
Bottom line, production is what matters.
Scott W.
August 31st, 2010
8:35 am
I love how Braves fans can be critical about something no matter what.
Ozzy
August 31st, 2010
8:47 am
It is all new faces in the braves lineup even if you go back only 3 years. Brian Mccann is the most senior hitter in the lineup, so yes he should be a leader.
Shannon
August 31st, 2010
8:53 am
Well said.
coach smith
August 31st, 2010
8:55 am
This team is going to belong to McCann, Heyward, and Freeman for the next TEN YEARS!
Throw in Hanson, Medlen, Minor, Jurjens and man oh man what a core of players you have!!!!!!!!!
papadawg
August 31st, 2010
8:56 am
I’m just glad the Braves didn’t leave their Heart in Colorado. Friday night was scary bur then they buffed up and got back on track
Mark Bradley
August 31st, 2010
8:57 am
You’re right, Brandon. I was wrong about that.
Carlton
August 31st, 2010
9:05 am
Can we kick out the people that say “first” or that don’t have anything relevant to say like Willy up top….Thanks.
Steve-o
August 31st, 2010
9:10 am
Mark,
Any chance that you could convince the powers-that-be to allow comments on the game recap articles? One of the reasons you receive so many comments (besides the fact that your columns are so interesting, of course!) is that we can’t comment on the game articles… which is kind of aggravating, especially on those days when we fans want to vent/comment and there’s not a corresponding column, so we have to just gripe to ourselves!
Navigator
August 31st, 2010
9:16 am
McCann came here with much less fan fare that his best friend, who was the talk of the town. The pros exact a different kind requirement, both preparation and effort, but never let the opposition find a flaw that can be exploited. Frenchy couldn’t get beyond his natural athletic ability and McCann went to work make himself a better hitter and better catcher (5 straight all star appearances). Frenchy has never gotten to the point where he learns to change and adapt, a lesson in two approaches, one successful and the other not.
Mike Jay
August 31st, 2010
9:18 am
Very few catchers handle pitchers and call a game as well is Mac. If you are going to mention his defensive shortcomings (which i think are overblown) than you have to mention that as well. They are equally important. About him being Fat….? Really? He’s a catcher!
rudy
August 31st, 2010
9:21 am
the phillies lost!!!!!hehe
Ralph
August 31st, 2010
9:27 am
How about a rotation next year of: Hudson
JJ
Minor
Hanson
Scott Redman
Ryan
August 31st, 2010
9:32 am
I don’t think anyone has mentioned one of McCann’s best qualities, and something that does show leadership is his interaction with the umpires and opposing players. I think personality wise he is very likeable and handles items that need to be addressed with rsepect. This can only help when it comes to umpires calling a game, even if it’s subiminal. Just look at how McClellan smirked before he twirled his finger.
Dean doesn't know
August 31st, 2010
9:36 am
Yes, Dean, team leaders do walk off the field. If someone is not going to have your back why should you have theirs.
Jesse Stone
August 31st, 2010
9:39 am
Team leaders play, they don’t quit. If they have a beef with a teammate, they take care of it in private.
rekingball
August 31st, 2010
9:40 am
What was the name of the umpire, that would not give McCann a timeout when he was batting last year, and McCann stood outside of the batter’s box after the ump told him to get back in? The pitcher threw a pitch and it was called strike 2, while McCann was still standing outside of the box, looking at the umpire.
Keith
August 31st, 2010
9:43 am
Not a nicer guy that Mccann, and he and Jhey seem to be heating up at the right time.
Go BRAVES!
kjonz
August 31st, 2010
9:43 am
Good article, Mark…how about a follow-up sometime comparing McCann with Johnny Bench and other HoF catchers at similar points in their careers? And another suggestion…how about an article on how likely the Braves are to have another multi-year playoff run, given the strength of the present lineup, plus the good prospects?
Ralph
August 31st, 2010
9:43 am
Can someone tell me what is the maximum number of players can be added to the roster tomorrow?
Bat Masterson
August 31st, 2010
9:44 am
Francoeur’s gamble has turned out to not hurt him too much. He gambled on his ability showing that he’s worth a mega contract……instead, he’s getting Brian McCann money (even though he isnt producing like McCann).
The Mets may be stupid but they are not that stupid. Jeff will me DFA’d and will be lucky to make half as much next year. Turning down the Braves offer will almost certainly cost Jeff F 20 million dollars.
Keith
August 31st, 2010
9:44 am
Re: Ryan.
Great point, Ryan!! When is the last time you’ve seen an umpire act giddy when giving the homerun call? I guess that was a special case, so the ump was excited to be in the first ever game-ending homerun via instant replay.
But I say it’s more about BMAC than about the historical nature of the call.
What say you Bradley?
Jesse Stone
August 31st, 2010
9:45 am
The Mets have their 3 outfielders for next year. Why would they keep Frenchie???
rekingball
August 31st, 2010
9:45 am
I don’t remember, ever seeing a player getting mad, and walking off the field, away from his position, in the middle of an inning, like Pendelton did, and I have watched a lot of ball games.
This week's theme in college football: Seeing who's suspended | Mark Bradley
August 31st, 2010
9:47 am
[...] than the rack rate, at the Whitney. Steve Spurrier told Neil White of The State on Tuesday: “We haven’t heard anything [from the NCAA]. We should hear something this week. They usually tell you before the first [...]
collegeballfan
August 31st, 2010
9:50 am
Re Heyward. I said from day one that if Heyward could match Chipper’s 1995 rookie year he would be a rousing success.
Here is the report card to date:
Name…Games…Aver…RBI…Runs…HR
Jones…140…..265…86….87….23..
H’ward..111…..278…67….72….16..
So far looks like a rousing success.
Mark Bradley
August 31st, 2010
9:51 am
Teams can suit up as many as 40 men in September, Ralph, although no team ever does.
Headley Lamar
August 31st, 2010
10:01 am
Scully was in good form last night. Sure wish the kid would have got the no-hitter.
GT Alum
August 31st, 2010
10:02 am
Where’s McFann? She would love this article.
DirtyByrd ATL
August 31st, 2010
10:07 am
Awesome Mark, & GO BRAVES!!!!
Ryan
August 31st, 2010
10:08 am
Career Stats
McCann Vs. Mauer
AB’s 2500 3000
Average .291 .327
OPS .855 .891
RBI’s 458 466
HR’s 109 80
Didn’t realize Mac had him beat in HR’s and almost tied in RBI’s with 500 fewer career AB’s.
ATLfan15
August 31st, 2010
10:15 am
Mark Bradley, that was a GREAT article! McCann deserves the kudos. As for you naysayers, I have one name for you: Corky Miller. Let that sink in….still wanna complain about B-Mac?
I
August 31st, 2010
10:40 am
Finally, BMc is getting some respect. Sadly, this morning on MLB on XM, Dibble said this was Heyward’s team. Of course, consider the source, but no mention of Mc. Maybe we need a PR campaign like the Heisman to get the word out that he’s the real deal.
Ross
August 31st, 2010
10:43 am
kjonz – Bench was around 50 percent throwing out runners if you subtract his last two years. Pudge Rod did 60 one year in the late 90s. McCann is at 30 (Ross is 35). Braves are dead last in the NL at catcher errors made and catcher fielding percentage.
As someone pointed out, this could be absorbed if he produced at the plate (hit .300/25/100) but he’s inconsistent there because he thinks he’s Gary Carter when he’s really just McCann. When he deforms his natural swing trying to hit jacks, he looks awful and it shows in the numbers.
Choppin' 4 Life
August 31st, 2010
10:48 am
Great article MB.
“I” Dibble is a moron.
Scoots
August 31st, 2010
10:49 am
MB – Is McCann really a ‘new’ leader? I seem to remember one of you AJC guys – not sure if it was you or O’Brien – writing about this same thing last year.
Not being critical – I just assumed he’d been the clubhouse leader the last 2 seasons.
blh
August 31st, 2010
10:49 am
Thanks, Mark. This article gave me cold chills. GO BRAVES!!!!!
ahs24
August 31st, 2010
10:51 am
Prado as team leader?! I love the guy, don’t get me wrong. He’s done great things. But think about it, people. Prado speaks “pretty good” English, but how is that going to cut it everyday with the media? Sure B-Mac doesn’t always make stellar defensive plays, but David Ross can’t match McCann at the plate. Production is only part of being a leader. Chipper didn’t win a batting title every year but he was a leader.
McCann is a leader because he is a presence on and off the field. Guys look up to him and look to him. He’s great with interacting with the media. From all accounts I’ve heard, he’s a pretty nice guy. I don’t want to see Chipper go. He’s been my favorite player for years. If and when he leaves, McCann is certainly the guy I want to try to fill his shoes.
McFann ♥ ;Ô; ♥ ;Ô; ♥
August 31st, 2010
10:52 am
Great article, Mr. Bradley! BMac is definitely a fine leader—I remember last year MattE was quoted as saying that there was no doubt that Brian was to be the new leader of the team.
Great quotes, too…love the humility of guys like McCann, Prado, and Heyward. It’s not that phony modesty—it’s genuine.
McFann ♥ ;Ô; ♥ ;Ô; ♥
August 31st, 2010
10:58 am
I’m not even gonna acknowledge the negativeness of some people…I get so friggin’ tired of that group of people that rags him for anything they cann get their grubby little hands on. Bet if he didn’t tie his shoes with a double-knot they’d call him out…
LOVED McClellend’s reaction to the Home Run Call! That was great…I could watch that replay all day long, and it would never get old. Replay’s not such a bad thing after all.
Ross
August 31st, 2010
11:05 am
Jeezus H McFann, have some self respect, this is baseball, not Tiger Beat Magazine.
glove51
August 31st, 2010
11:09 am
Very nice piece today, Mark.
McFann ♥ ;Ô; ♥ ;Ô; ♥
August 31st, 2010
11:09 am
Tiger Beat Magazine…that’s funny. My Mom used to get that when it had articles about the Partridge Family.
Ross
August 31st, 2010
11:18 am
Well OK – I know you just LUUUUUV McCann but the numbers are cruel. He’s not a good defensive catcher. Since this just requires practice and concentration, it’s hard to see any leadership qualities emerging there.
What's Important
August 31st, 2010
11:47 am
Hey Ross, try going to bed earlier, maybe then you won’t be such an a–h-le.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
11:48 am
McFann!!!! Wow, she is on another article than DOB for once!!!
jayvee
August 31st, 2010
11:51 am
I don’t think we should read TOO much into the platitudes these guys spew about how great their teammates are. It looks good in print, and probably helps maintain morale, but, c’mon, they sound like broken records, spouting the same attaboys. They get it from Bobby, from whom is seldom heard a discouraging word. It’s far better than what you see or hear from a fractious team, but there are 25 guys on the team, and a lot of coaches and ancillary personnel. You know some of them can’t stand some of the others. I think McCann is a great leader, an overachieving Everyman, someone who truly makes the most of his talents. I think Prado and Infante are fabulously underrated. It’s a joy to watch them play. I think the real man in this clubhouse is Billy Wagner. Wish he weren’t going to retire.
B-Mac
August 31st, 2010
11:53 am
I want to thank my friend Frenchy for making this all possible. Because he went from being the Poster Boy to the goat!
somebody
August 31st, 2010
11:54 am
No, no no! It will ALWAYS be Chipper’s team!
Rey
August 31st, 2010
12:01 pm
Sorry…I think Prado is the real leader on this team. He’s not only a gamer, but challenges everyone around him to elevate their game.
Christopher Chance
August 31st, 2010
12:15 pm
Jesse Stone…….your 9:45am post failed to mention that Carlos Beltran’s knee is still giving him problems. Also, Jason Bay’s status for the beginning of 2011 is far from certain.
So knowing that, the Mets will more than likely offer Francoeur arbitration. Despite Francoeur’s short comings…….he plays everyday, has a strong throwing arm. and is a fan favorite with the NY fans…..as well as stays out of trouble (which has been an issue with other Met players).
Not only will Francoeur get arbitration, he’ll be in line to make AT LEAST $7 mil in 2011………..which will be more than McCann’s $6.5 mil 2011 salary.
If anything, it shows that McCann was foolish to take that contract. As a Braves fan, I’m glad that he did because it’s a payroll friendly contract that will allow the Braves to help offset the tens of millions wasted on Chipper, Lowe, McLouth and Kawakami.
McFann ♥ ;Ô; ♥ ;Ô; ♥
August 31st, 2010
12:16 pm
Trey–
I thought it was time to branch out.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
12:20 pm
McFann, good job, or is this just because it is a McCann article?
papadawg
August 31st, 2010
12:20 pm
Have we ever had a leader in the clubhouse. Chipper has said before he wasn’t a leader and I can’t really recall anybody stepping up
Trey
August 31st, 2010
12:22 pm
papadawg, Glavine was a clubhouse leader, so was Smoltz. Chipper never claimed leadership, because he is so modest, but I considered him as a leader.
Christopher Chance
August 31st, 2010
12:26 pm
McFann……….I’m a fan of McCann. However that does not preclude me (or any other fan) from being critical of him. Being critical of someone doesnt have to be a bad thing.
Upon hearing criticism, a person will either get mad or feel insecure……..or he’ll use it as motivation and insight to improve his short comings.
McCann simply rakes at the plate. He bats for a decent average and has a good walk/strikeout ration. He hits for power and has a knack for clutch hits.
What concerns me is his defense. Games tighten up in the play-offs. Errors on defense become more magnified. McCann has a propensity to air mail throws into the outfield, whether throwing it to second or third. Also, relying on the back hand scoop…..instead of shifting his body over to block wild pitches……could very well cost the Braves a close game in the play-offs.
Still, other than Joe Mauer, there isnt a catcher I’d rather have than McCann. I just would love to see him improve his defense where he can be the undisputed best catcher in baseball…….which would help make the Braves an even better team.
Fischerking04
August 31st, 2010
12:30 pm
“He’s not a good defensive catcher. Since this just requires practice and concentration, it’s hard to see any leadership qualities emerging there.”—Ross
Unless DAVID ROSS wrote this, then it has to be one of the most outlandish assumptions I have seen for quite some time. My guess is this Ross more along the athletic ability of Ross the Intern.
Jesse Stone
August 31st, 2010
12:36 pm
Christopher Chance- 2011 baseball season is seven months away. Beltran is on the field now and Bay will be ready in SEVEN MONTHS. Given the bad contracts that Minaya has doled out (Castillo, Perez, Bay, K-Rod) I think the Wilpons will scrutinize any deal they give to an outfielder that is not starting quality.
Jason Bay won’t be ready in 7 months? That’s ridiculous.
Steve-o
August 31st, 2010
12:42 pm
Prado might be co-leader- a fiery competitor who seems like a great teammate. Whether or not he’s having a good game, he ethusiastically cheers on and supports his teammates. As for the person above who knocked him for only speaking “pretty good” English… well, I think his English is fine. I think it says a lot about his character that he was willing to be a translator for Infante in a post-game interview a while back. The doofus interviewer kept asking painfully long questions, which Prado spent about a minute conscientiously translating for his teammate.
Jesse Stone
August 31st, 2010
12:45 pm
Christopher Chance- I don’t think that even Omar Minaya will give a contract extension to Francouer. Omar gave out some bad contracts (Bay, Castillo, Perez, K-Rod) and I’m betting the Wilpons do not want to see what has become a 4th outfielder given that kind of money. The Mets would rather go with Chris Carter as a fill-in.
2011 baseball season is SEVEN MONTHS AWAY and you don’t think Bay will be ready by then? Beltran is clearly not 100%, but he is on the field. You don’t think he will be ready in SEVEN MONTHS? You are reaching.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
12:46 pm
Troy Palomalu’s hair is worth one million dollars.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
12:47 pm
Woops, spelled his last name wrong.
Jesse Stone
August 31st, 2010
12:54 pm
Jeff Francoeur- BA 236///OBP 293///SLG% 369///OPS 663. You think he will get a raise in NY?
McFann ♥ ;Ô; ♥ ;Ô; ♥
August 31st, 2010
1:02 pm
Trey or is this just because it is a McCann article?
Um…well…that’s a big part of it.
Christopher Chance–
I didn’t say anything (did I?)! People always seem to feel like they have to explain BMac’s defense to me…I know about his shortcomings! Just get sick of reading about them all the time…sheesh…
McCann has a propensity to air mail throws into the outfield, whether throwing it to second or third. Also, relying on the back hand scoop…..instead of shifting his body over to block wild pitches……could very well cost the Braves a close game in the play-offs.
His been way more accurate with his throwing this year…and yes yes, the backhand thing cann get annoying, but did you see those two blocks last night? Beautiful…and he’s had many more, but unfortunately they don’t give a stat for actual blocks.
Christopher Chance
August 31st, 2010
1:04 pm
Jesse Stone………….Chris Carter is nothing but a 4th outfielder at best. Also, if Beltran continues to struggle, then Angel Pagan will have to play center. Of the Mets outfielders, other than Pagan, only Jeff Francoeur has the arm to play right field.
Also, I never said that the Mets were going to give Francoeur an extension. I said that they would offer him salary arbitration (meaning that he gets a 1 year contract). The Mets are not going to non-tender him……….which if anything is not so much a reflection of Francoeur’s abilities………as it is on the sad state that the Mets’ roster is in.
McFann ♥ ;Ô; ♥ ;Ô; ♥
August 31st, 2010
1:07 pm
Why do people always feel the need to explain BMac defensive shortcomings to me? I know they’re there for the love of Pete! I just get sick of reading about them all the time…and some people take the thing WAY too far…
CC McCann has a propensity to air mail throws into the outfield, whether throwing it to second or third. Also, relying on the back hand scoop…..instead of shifting his body over to block wild pitches……could very well cost the Braves a close game in the play-offs.
He’s been much more accurate with his throwing this year. And yes, yes, the backhand thing cann be annoying, but did you see those blocks last night? Beautiful…and he’s had many more! Unfortunately, they don’t give a stat for actual blocks.
McFann ♥ ;Ô; ♥ ;Ô; ♥
August 31st, 2010
1:07 pm
CC McCann has a propensity to air mail throws into the outfield, whether throwing it to second or third. Also, relying on the back hand scoop…..instead of shifting his body over to block wild pitches……could very well cost the Braves a close game in the play-offs.
He’s been much more accurate with his throwing this year. And yes, yes, the backhand thing cann be annoying, but did you see those blocks last night? Beautiful…and he’s had many more! Unfortunately, they don’t give a stat for actual blocks.
McFann ♥ ;Ô; ♥ ;Ô; ♥
August 31st, 2010
1:08 pm
Why do people always feel the need to explain BMac defensive shortcomings to me? I know they’re there for the love of Pete! I just get sick of reading about them all the time…and some people take the thing WAY too far…
McFann ♥ ;Ô; ♥ ;Ô; ♥
August 31st, 2010
1:08 pm
CC–
He’s been much more accurate with his throwing this year. And yes, yes, the backhand thing cann be annoying, but did you see those blocks last night? Beautiful…and he’s had many more! Unfortunately, they don’t give a stat for actual blocks.
McFann ♥ ;Ô; ♥ ;Ô; ♥
August 31st, 2010
1:09 pm
CC–
He’s been much more accurate with his throwing this year. And yes, yes, the backhand thing cann be annoying, but made many good blocks this year. Unfortunately, they don’t give a stat for actual blocks.
McFann ♥ ;Ô; ♥ ;Ô; ♥
August 31st, 2010
1:10 pm
There…it posted…good lord…
Trey–
Well, that was part of it.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
1:10 pm
McFann, don’t worry about everyone getting to you, he is a good player with flaws like everyone else.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
1:11 pm
McFann, this is the blog that Sonny loves to write. Well this blog and Jeff Schultz.
Christopher Chance
August 31st, 2010
1:13 pm
Jesse Stone……….because of the plethora of September call-ups who’ll be pitching for teams out of contention………there’s a good chance that Francoeur will have a good September…which could very well make some of his power numbers look “decent”.
The raise that Francouer will be due has little to do with how well his 2010 went. Arbitration will determine his salary. Why do you think that the Braves cut Kelly Johnson last year? Because even though he SUCKED A$$ in 2009, he was in line to get awarded well over $3 mil for 2010.
The thing that many of you forget is that arbitration factors in the fact that players are underpaid during their first 3 years in the league.
Christopher Chance
August 31st, 2010
1:17 pm
The reason why I’m critical of McCann when it comes to his defensive short comings because I feel that those are things that he can work on. The backhanded stop that he does instead of shifting his body over is something that he can correct with effort.
I believe that McCann has the ability to become a better catcher. However, just because I’m a fan does not mean that I can be critical of him when it is justly deserved.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
1:21 pm
McFann, you should come on these blogs more often. Bradley and Schultz are very good with this and they do know the game.
McFann ♥ ;Ô; ♥ ;Ô; ♥
August 31st, 2010
1:30 pm
CC just because I’m a fan does not mean that I can be critical of him when it is justly deserved.
You do realize that I could take that and run with it, don’t you?
He does work on his defense. Hey, I understand people being critical of some things, but what I get tired of is people just going on and on about how awful he is without acknowledging when he does make good plays or that he has improved over past years. And they always talk to me as if I know nothing about his defensive pitfalls…I know they’re there, OK? He works on it, and Ross and the coaches work with him, too. Don’t accuse him of not making an effort.
Trey–
I’ll try to pop in more frequently.
I do read their stuff every now and then, I just don’t post that much.
McFann ♥ ;Ô; ♥ ;Ô; ♥
August 31st, 2010
1:31 pm
Trey don’t worry about everyone getting to you, he is a good player with flaws like everyone else.
I know…I tried to let it slide. That lasted all of 10 minutes, eh?
LuvdaBraves
August 31st, 2010
1:35 pm
FIRST! Oh wait, more like 51st! Mark B what did I win?? Awesome game last night. I wish broadcasters would shut up about the lacking attendance at Tropicana Field (have you ever been there? I have, and T-Field makes that place look like a Truck Stop Men’s room) and Turner Field. In this economic recession, I can’t drive 4 hours round trip to attend a 7pm game and be at work the next morning at 7am. I’ve been to 6 Braves games already this year, and will be attending two more. We can’t all be wealthy socailites that live in Atlanta. See you in the Upper Box section for Cards and Phillies! Go Braves!
Trey
August 31st, 2010
1:35 pm
McFann, I come on here a lot, so I can see the banter of Bradley and Clusters banters. I also enjoy the articles!! People were asking Bradley if he was going to transfer and I hope that does not happen. Bradley, Schultz and DOB are what make AJC great. So did Bischer, but sadly he retired, then went somewhere else.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
1:36 pm
Well I didn’t need to say so I can see the banter, as I said baters at the end!
McFann ♥ ;Ô; ♥ ;Ô; ♥
August 31st, 2010
1:40 pm
Trey–
Yeah, the baseball section is about all this paper has going for it!
Trey
August 31st, 2010
1:41 pm
McFann, the AJC is amazing, even the other sections! I used to love getting the Sunday papers just to read the comics.
McFann ♥ ;Ô; ♥ ;Ô; ♥
August 31st, 2010
1:43 pm
Trey–
Ah, yes, the comics are good, too!
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
1:44 pm
McCann is not the best catcher in the NL East, let alone the NL – when you understand a catcher’s role in the baseball game, and don’t just blindly look at stats, you realize that Chooch Ruiz is, by far, the best catcher in the NL
Trey
August 31st, 2010
1:45 pm
Now they just need a Clusters blog.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
1:46 pm
Phillies, Class of the NL, how nice to see you? How does it feel to be three games behind first?
Jesse Stone
August 31st, 2010
1:51 pm
Chance- Yes, I’m aware of the arbitration situation. Again, there are SEVEN MONTHS until the start of the 2011 seson. The Mets starting outfield will be healthy by then. Why wouldn’t they non-tender Francoeur? They can go out and find a cheaper option that would put up similar numbers.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
1:51 pm
Ruiz is definitely not that great. Man, how the Phillies must be steaming, falling and falling further into the bowels of the division.
Jesse Stone
August 31st, 2010
1:52 pm
Phillies, Class of NL- Oh, so THAT’S why Ruiz’s peers vote him into the all-star game every year.
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
1:52 pm
The true attributes of a good catcher are:
ability to call a game – Ruiz > McCann
arm strength to discourage and catch base stealers – Ruiz >> McCann
ability to stop passed balls – Ruiz >>>>> McCann
ability to block plate and cover home – Ruiz >> McCann
offense – McCann > Ruiz, but Ruiz a much better clutch and playoff performer – check Ruiz 2008 and 2009 post season stats and learn why he is Senor Octobre
McFann ♥ ;Ô; ♥ ;Ô; ♥
August 31st, 2010
1:52 pm
Phillies, Class of the NL—
You can’t “blindly” look at stats. Your eyes must be open to look at stats.
Or are you talking about the whole RISP thing? BMac is tied for 3rd in the NL in RBI since the All-Star Break…although with the homer last night, he might be in 3rd all by himself…
He struggled in the first half, but he’s coming back around now.
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
1:53 pm
hahahahha Jesse Stone, since when do peers vote you into the all-star game? your ignorance is staggering
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
1:54 pm
this Mark Bradley cat is a pretty decent writer, its a shame his talents are wasted on the atlanta sports scene (or lack of scene)
Jesse Stone
August 31st, 2010
1:54 pm
They can find a player with a .236 BA and a .663 OPS for under 6M. He!!, Melky’s numbers are better than that.
Duluth's Finest
August 31st, 2010
1:55 pm
i disagree Phillies, McCann is better than your chooch, but he was impressive in the postseason
McFann ♥ ;Ô; ♥ ;Ô; ♥
August 31st, 2010
1:56 pm
McCann calls a VERY good game…our pitchers have said so.
He’s getting much better at throwing runners out. Tommy Hanson’s slowness to the plate has skewed BMac’s numbers there this year.
McCann has 4 passed balls, and yes, so does Ruiz.
McCann could block and cover home better if we’d get some better throws from the outfield, which we will. And who knows? Some coach could have told him to be careful because we need his bat.
McFann ♥ ;Ô; ♥ ;Ô; ♥
August 31st, 2010
1:57 pm
since when do peers vote you into the all-star game?
Uh…since always…?
Jesse Stone
August 31st, 2010
1:57 pm
Excuse me, Phillies. Maybe I meant to say “his own manager didn’t name him to the AllStar team”.
Bat Masterson
August 31st, 2010
2:00 pm
Not only will Francoeur get arbitration, he’ll be in line to make AT LEAST $7 mil in 2011………..which will be more than McCann’s $6.5 mil 2011 salary. _ Christopher Chance
Dude you are out of your everlovin’ freakin’ mind. He will be DFA’d bank on it.
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
2:01 pm
McCann has one of the weakest arms in the NL – fact – check the stats
McCann is absolutely horrible at blocking the plate – fact – no stat to back this up but proof of watching the games is enough, I think most braves fans will acknowledge this
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
2:02 pm
McCann is below average in things that catchers are supposed to do, but an above average hitting catcher, that is all
McFann ♥ ;Ô; ♥ ;Ô; ♥
August 31st, 2010
2:02 pm
I should tell him that BMac’s caught more guys stealing than Ruiz every year except 2007, but why waste valuable time?
Duluth's Finest
August 31st, 2010
2:04 pm
I have never taken the time to actually look up McCann’s caught stealing numbers, they are really very pitiful – that has kind of slipped by me all this time – I wonder how many of those successful steals eventually scored? Oh well, his bat still trumps that…
McFann ♥ ;Ô; ♥ ;Ô; ♥
August 31st, 2010
2:05 pm
Here are links to fielding stats for both players:
McCann: http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/mccanbr01-field.shtml
Ruiz: http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/ruizca01-field.shtml
Have at it, big guy. I will say that, yes, Ruiz has a batter fielding percentage.
Keith
August 31st, 2010
2:05 pm
Funny that a Phillies fan would compare a 5-6 year AS veteran to a newbie in Ruiz. Of course, they said we’d relinquish the lead 2 mos ago…that would be like comparing Strasburg to Halladay.
3 Games now. Enjoy the remainder of your west coast trip.
McFann ♥ ;Ô; ♥ ;Ô; ♥
August 31st, 2010
2:05 pm
DF I have never taken the time to actually look up McCann’s caught stealing numbers
Then stop commenting on the subject.
Bat Masterson
August 31st, 2010
2:09 pm
DF _
Man Heap is or would be leading the league in caught stealing percentage if not for Hanson’s turtle like delivery.
Bat Masterson
August 31st, 2010
2:10 pm
Christopher Chance < "Chance The Gardener"
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:11 pm
Phillies, the only good player your team has is Roy Halladay.
Duluth's Finest
August 31st, 2010
2:11 pm
well McFann, I never looked them up until now, thank you
McCann has allowed 397 stolen bases since 2005
Ruiz has allowed 242 stolen bases since 2005
That is a difference of 155 stolen bases which is nothing to overlook, but McCann swings a better bat
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:11 pm
Your team has done nothing since the binocular incident.
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
2:14 pm
let me kick some knowledge to you simpletons – batters do not run on Chooch as often as they run on McCann – aka, Chooch discourages basestealing
Since 2005, over 150 batters more have stolen on McCann than Ruiz – those extra 150 bases could very well account 5-10 games, no?
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
2:15 pm
and those 5-10 games per year could be a factor in why the Phillies are 3 time defending NL East Champions and the bravos have done nothing, no?
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
2:16 pm
braves fans will soon learn the pain of mets fans – the pain of naively thinking that their team could unseat the Juggernaut Philadelphia Phillies, only to have your hopes trounced come October
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:17 pm
Three times is in the past, like our FOURTEEN titles.
raleighbravefan
August 31st, 2010
2:17 pm
Phillies, Ass of the NL – Another arrogant (and wrong) Phillies troll, I see. How does it feel looking UP at the Braves for 4 months? You guys will be 4+ games back going into the final series, and will be praying for a Wild Card!
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
2:18 pm
what does 14 consecutive NL East titles equal?
a few things
-the distant past
-only 1 world series title (haha pathetic, such an underachieving bunch)
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
2:19 pm
we are arrogant because we know our team is superior
you are foolish because you don’t realize we will take the lead from you, whether you like it or not
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:20 pm
The Braves are in their rightful place in the division, and they realize this. They are not going to give up their throne without a fight. The Braves are nothing like the Mets, they do not choke up first.
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
2:22 pm
hahahahaha – this just in – last nights attendance:
18,842 (37.9% full)
hahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha!!!!!!
raleighbravefan
August 31st, 2010
2:22 pm
Phillies, Ass of NL – How many of those extra stolen basses resulted in runs for oposition, and wins? How many of McCann’s hits have resulted in wins? Oh, and Brian’s heroics will result in the Braves having home field advantage in the WS!
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:22 pm
Phillie, that is funny you say this one WS thing, because the Phillies have been in Philadelphia since the 19th century and only have two titles. The Braves have THREE titles, just one in Atlanta. The Braves have been in Atlanta since only 1966 and just need one more WS victory to tie your team.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:24 pm
Only two WS victories and first team with 10,000 losses.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:24 pm
Ryan Howard looks like he is better suited for a Phillie Cheesesteak eating contest than baseball.
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
2:25 pm
the early Phillies teams up until current managment were very poorly run – Phillies fans acknowledge this, we dont make excuses like Braves fans, just like we dont make excuses for the Eagles for their 5 of 8 NFC Championship Games, but no super bowl
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
2:25 pm
18,842 (37.9% full) — guess what this is?
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
2:26 pm
take your time….
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
2:29 pm
that is the first place braves attendance for last nights game against the supposedly hated mets – under 19,000???? under 38% full??? 38%?????????????
CLARK CO. PD
August 31st, 2010
2:29 pm
Enter your comments here
Jesse Stone
August 31st, 2010
2:30 pm
I guess you kinda forgot about the All-Star thing, huh Phillies troll?
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:30 pm
Excuses, your team is just pathetic. Only two titles in over 100 years. By the way, majority of the people that live in Atlanta are from the north, so they are more likely Yankees or Phillie fans. Also, many of our fans live in other states and cities and the ones that do work here do go to the game and if not it’s because of work and school. Unlike Philadelphia, we have more than sports to worry about. We have a better team, more Hall of Famers, a better looking field and classier fans.
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
2:30 pm
38% full in a pennant race ??????????????
CLARK CO. PD
August 31st, 2010
2:30 pm
Franchise Loses?
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:31 pm
By the way, the last to won All Stars were at the hands of the Braves. 1996 the Braves won it with Bobby Cox managing, this time they won with McCann batting.
CLARK CO. PD
August 31st, 2010
2:31 pm
18,842
The amount of women with back hair at Philly games?
Jesse Stone
August 31st, 2010
2:31 pm
Philadelphia Phillies, sponsored by “Peek” Antifreeze. When you “peek”, you win.
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
2:31 pm
what is the excuse for that??? a valid excuse please….it was a 7:05 game…
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:32 pm
CLARK CO. PD, don’t forget, they only have two WS victories in their franchise of Philadelphia.
Jesse Stone
August 31st, 2010
2:32 pm
Trey, the MVP of the ‘94 games was also a Brave.
CLARK CO. PD
August 31st, 2010
2:33 pm
18842
Charley Manuels Weight?
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
2:33 pm
why is Atlanta such a lethargic sports town?? Only 38% full for a first place team, against a hated rival, in a pennant race????
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:34 pm
Jesse, I don’t remember 94 so well. These Phillies fans think they can brag with only three straight division champions. The throne belongs to the Braves, now the Braves are back and are not going anywhere.
Jesse Stone
August 31st, 2010
2:34 pm
So every Phillie regular position player has ben an All-Star (except Ruiz), and they’re STILL in 2nd place?
Jesse Stone
August 31st, 2010
2:35 pm
Fred McGriff
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
2:36 pm
I really cannot get over that, it must be really depressing to be at the ballpark with only 18,000 fans – I mean I know its a bland stadium with no real good qualities, while the CBP year in and year out is 1 or 2 along with PNC Park as the best stadium in MLB – but come on, at least there is a first place team playing there — its really sad that the braves and the rays have that in common — just horrible, horrible fan bases
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:37 pm
It’s funny, anytime the Phils try to throw the one WS title Atlanta has, throw it in their face that the Braves have only been in Atlanta since 1966 and have half as many as Philadelphia who has been there since like 1864. The Braves in general have three WS titles.
Jesse Stone
August 31st, 2010
2:37 pm
Rather be at Turner Field with our 18,000 than be at your bandbox with wifebeaters and knuckledraggers
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:38 pm
Top ten stadiums did not list Citi Field, yet they listed Turner as number six.
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
2:39 pm
rays 12,000 fans the other night, so you beat them anyway, thats a good thing I guess, I mean 18,000 though – eww, disgusting
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
2:39 pm
do the phillies play at Citi field?
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
2:40 pm
Trey, you are such an idiot that you think peers vote you into the all-star game and you think the Phillies play at CitiField – your opinions mean pretty much nothing – you are a moron, you are a simple southern nimwit
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:41 pm
Phillies, the Mets do, you should know that they don’t if you are a Phillies fans.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:41 pm
Phillies, considering I am smart enough to stay on my own blog.
unlike you, Phillies trash. Know nothing about Atlanta.
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
2:42 pm
there is no finer place than the CBP on a summer night – great team, great stadium, great fans
and no more intimidating place than the CBP in October
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:42 pm
Phillies fans resort to insults and puking on 12 year old girls, typical.
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
2:43 pm
Trey just googled: “who plays at citi field?” – hahaha
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:43 pm
Phillies, if I give you a pair of binoculars, maybe first place will look a little closer for your team.
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
2:43 pm
this is my blog trey, just like the NL East is the Phillies division
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:43 pm
Phillies, nope I did not.
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
2:44 pm
so trey, why did you even mention citi field out of curiousity?
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:44 pm
Phillies, you wish this was your blog. The Phillies are behind the Braves, right where they belong.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:45 pm
Phillies, you wrote CBP and CBP (Citi Bank Park).
Jesse Stone
August 31st, 2010
2:46 pm
Phillies- That was me that said players get voted in by peers. Maybe you should do some research before you spew your non-factual garbage. Holliday and Wainwright were voted in by their peers this year, along with many others. I won’t hold my breath waiting for you to admit you were wrong.
Duluth's Finest
August 31st, 2010
2:47 pm
he’s got you Trey, just shut up, you screwed up with the Citi Field thing — and I was one of the 18,000 at the game last night, and I have no excuses – that was my 17th game of the year but my fellow braves fans drop the ball when it comes to supporting the team — I really think we’d have an even better home record if there was more enery at the Ted.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:47 pm
While the Phillies play at Citizens Bank Park, I made the typo thinking of Citi Field.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:48 pm
Dultuth’s Finest, no as I got my names confused. Dultuth’s Finest, you can shut up as you are an obvious Phils fan.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:50 pm
Jesse, don’t worry about them as they try to get you for any small error.
Jesse Stone
August 31st, 2010
2:50 pm
Phillies troll is currently researching if players can be voted in by peers
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
2:50 pm
Trey, you moron
CBP = Citizens Bank Park
you just stated that CBP = Citi Bank Park, which is not even the correct name of the Mets stadium, which is Citi Field.
You are a true dope.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:50 pm
Citizens Bank Park was not even in the top 10, Jesse. Number one was surprisingly Wrigley Field.
Jesse Stone
August 31st, 2010
2:50 pm
Trey- It was his error. He called me out for saying All-Stars get voted in by peers. He was wrong.
Jesse Stone
August 31st, 2010
2:51 pm
waiting, Phillies troll
RioBravo
August 31st, 2010
2:51 pm
Phillies you are an idiot, but Trey you are wrong about the stadiums, blatantly wrong, quit while ahead.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:51 pm
Phillie, as I stated it was an error. You are the true moron, as you do not know what an error is, surprisingly as your players make errors, a lot.
CLARK CO. PD
August 31st, 2010
2:52 pm
Phillies, Class of the NL,
Wasn’t Charlie Manuel the manager for the last 2 all star games?
If Ruiz was better why didn’t Charlie put him on the team? The reserves are up to him and the coaches. He picked McCann! Must have been an oversite?
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:52 pm
Rio, I admitted I made an error. I am not quitting, as the Phillies trolls are so easy to prove how ignorant they are.
Jesse Stone
August 31st, 2010
2:52 pm
Clark Co.– He will ignore that or change his name.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:53 pm
Rio, another difference between fans of Atlanta and Philadelphia is we admit if we made a mistake. The Phillies fan tries to call us out on ONE Atlanta WS title, when they only have two, why is that?
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:54 pm
Clark, I assume it’s the same reason he thinks Lidge is so great and he keeps using him as closer.
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
2:55 pm
CBP #1
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/377766-from-best-to-worse-ranking-the-mlb-stadiums#page/32
CLARK CO. PD
August 31st, 2010
2:55 pm
We’re the Phillies, you’re just the braves
Yeah that was his name yesterday!
Jesse Stone
August 31st, 2010
2:55 pm
Come on Phillies troll, you said my “ignorance is staggering for thinking players get voted in by peers”. Whaere’s the retraction?
Jesse Stone
August 31st, 2010
2:56 pm
Why are you ignoring facts Phillie troll?
RioBravo
August 31st, 2010
2:57 pm
I didn’t see you admit an error Trey, I saw you trying to cover your tracks because you thought the Phillies played in Citi Field, just calling it like it is.
As for you Phillies, you are obviously a trouble maker, and it is you that will be in tears come October
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:57 pm
Jesse, because he is a moron. He calls people morons for their mistake, yet he makes many mistakes himself.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
2:58 pm
Rio, no I admitted the error.
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
2:58 pm
CBP, that’s Citizen Bank Park, for the remedial Trey, is top 5 in every stadium ranking out there, and #1 or 2 in most.
CLARK CO. PD
August 31st, 2010
2:58 pm
Trey sorry but we have made 100 errors they have only made 69.
Jesse Stone
August 31st, 2010
2:59 pm
That’s what I thought Phillies troll. You are gutless.
RioBravo
August 31st, 2010
2:59 pm
and yet the Braves are #1 in the NL East – shove it.
RioBravo
August 31st, 2010
2:59 pm
shut up Trey.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
3:01 pm
RioBravo, immature, much? How old are you? “Shut up”, didn’t your mom teach you any manners?
Trey
August 31st, 2010
3:02 pm
Jesse, makes you wonder how many real Braves fans are on here as they are defending the Phils troll on here over defending their own Braves.
raleighbravefan
August 31st, 2010
3:03 pm
Knock, Knock.
Who’s there?
Rear view mirror.
Rear view mirror, Who?
The rear view mirror that Braves fans are using to look at the Phillies. Soon, we won’t b e able to see them at all.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
3:03 pm
Phillies, as I said I made an error. Are the Phillie cheesesteaks clouding your judgement? Maybe you should lay off.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
3:04 pm
raleighbravefan, hopefully we can see them getting smaller and smaller in the rear view.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
3:04 pm
Clark, yeah I know. I never said our defense was great either.
RioBravo
August 31st, 2010
3:04 pm
Trey, I argue facts with the ignorant Phillies fans when I get the time – I don’t need to argue with an ignorant Braves fan at the same time. You were wrong, get over it, shut up. Citizens Bank Park is a beautiful Park, I have been there, you obviously never have. Phillies fans are also boorish goons, but they are lively.
The Braves are in first place, the Phillies are not. In my opinion we are there to stay no matter what the Phillies Phools have to say. Its a fact that we are in first and all we need to do is take care of business to win this thing. GO BRAVES! EPH the Phillies!
Trey
August 31st, 2010
3:08 pm
Rio, you obviously do not know me as I am not an ignorant Braves fan. I have been to Citizens Bank Park. It is not that great compared to The Ted. So, grow up and do not tell those that you disagree with to “shut up”.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
3:08 pm
RioBraves, as I did say I made an error you are proving your ignorance. I had the team names mixed up, but you ignore the facts.
RioBravo
August 31st, 2010
3:12 pm
Trey, I looked back – you referred to CBP as Citi Bank Field, which is wrong. You then said that Citi Field, the right name, but of the Mets stadium, was not in the top 10? Was anyone talking about the Mets stadium? Shut up already about that and get back on topic.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
3:13 pm
Jesse, won’t it be nice once the Phillies are out then we won’t have to deal with their ignorance?
Trey
August 31st, 2010
3:13 pm
RioBrave, “shut up”, obviously your mother did not teach you manners. I said I made an error, but you are clueless to notice.
Mr. Turnip-Green Jeans
August 31st, 2010
3:14 pm
Summa y’all prolly want Ozzie Virgil back, at 60.
Brian is the finest all-round catcher we’ve ever had.
His throws have improved immensely DURING the season. You can tell he’s working every day to get better. I’ve always thought he called a great game too, even as a rook.
He’s ain’t Johnny Bench YET, but he’s playing like a SonnuvaBench lately.. He and Heyward are like nitro and dynamite. If Mac were not our starting catcher we would not be in first place, and maybe not in second. I love Ross. I think he’s the best backup catcher in all of baseball. However, I do not think we’d be in first place if he were our starter. No way. Without Mac, we’d be doing nothing more than trying to be spoilers for playoff-bound teams.
Phillies, Class of the NL
August 31st, 2010
3:14 pm
trey, you will only have to deal with regret as the Phillies take their rightful 1st place back and win the World Series – you will be watching with envy..
Braves
August 31st, 2010
3:16 pm
(Sung to the tune of “Folsom Prison Blues”)
I hear those Braves a’ comin,
They’re comin’ from down south,
They’re going to squash the Phillies,
So, Troll, just shut your mouth,
Cause you’re stuck in place at second,
And there you’re gonna stay,
And those Braves just keep a winnin’ ,
They’re going all the way!!!.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
3:16 pm
Phillies, Class of the NL. Again, we are not the Mets, we will not choke up first place like the Mets. I found many other 10 ten things that said the same thing and Citizens Bank Park was not in the top 10.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
3:18 pm
(Sung to the tune of “Folsom Prison Blues”)
I hear those Braves a’ comin,
They’re comin’ from down south,
They’re going to squash the Phillies,
So, Troll, just shut your mouth,
Cause you’re stuck in place at second,
And there you’re gonna stay,
And those Braves just keep a winnin’ ,
They’re going all the way!!!.
Braves, I like that. We just need to focus on the Division title to shut Phillies trolls, first. From then we can worry about making the NLCS then the World Series.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
3:21 pm
Phillies, Class of the NL. If the Braves clinch, I want you to come on the blogs admitting you were wrong and to admit the Braves are the better of the two teams. Then I want you to admit, Turner Field is much nicer than Citizens Bank Park.
Trey
August 31st, 2010
3:22 pm
Anyway, I have to go. Unlike the Phillies troll, I have a life and it involves more than just sitting on the computer.
Braves Fan Since "80
August 31st, 2010
3:23 pm
I think this team has leadership by committee……. Brian certainly needs to set the tone but he can not provide the physical leadership that heyward can and they can not providee the offensive stability of prado and infante, nor the defensive insticts of Ankiel in CF. Mac is the man and he does not take away from the other guys…….Gonzales (D) Lee and Ankiel offense coming around could prpel this team to the top
Trey
August 31st, 2010
3:25 pm
Bradley, I will be back later and I hope your page will no longer be infested with Phillies trolls. Have a good day.
Mouth of the South Larry Jones
August 31st, 2010
3:36 pm
is the Phillies troll just spouting off nonsense or was there really 18,000 folks in attendance last night?
Mouth of the South Larry Jones
August 31st, 2010
3:37 pm
was there really 18 thousands or no?
Mouth of the South Larry Jones
August 31st, 2010
3:39 pm
or is the philthies troll just spouting nonsense?
Duluth's Finest
August 31st, 2010
3:40 pm
yes 18,000 fans last night Larry, I was there, such a great game too but no fan support
Duluth's Finest
August 31st, 2010
3:42 pm
yes 18,000 last night Larry, I was there, such a great game too but no fan support – and maybe 5k mets fans out of the 18k
Mark Bradley
August 31st, 2010
3:46 pm
I hate to tell you: There really were only 18,000 in the ballpark.
Braves Fan Since "80
August 31st, 2010
3:50 pm
Some people have to work…. wish i could attend every game…..After school starts my friends would rather watch ON TV
McFann ♥ ;Ô; ♥ ;Ô; ♥
August 31st, 2010
4:15 pm
Mr. Turnip-Green Jeans–
Amen to that.
Joseph Allen McWhorter
August 31st, 2010
4:33 pm
Couldn’t agree with you more on this one, Mark. Without Brian McCann, the Braves might very well be in fourth place right now. He is that valuable!!
voice of reason
August 31st, 2010
4:34 pm
pendelton was a leader yea walking off the field relly lead by example lol is call him a wate of a uniform couldent play and cant coach dave justice was the leader untel js thought he was getting too much attention and made one of his many gresat trade lolwe have hadf a pressence for years unfortunatrly for this blog hes a older white guy i know that wont fly but just saying lol
Christopher Chance
August 31st, 2010
4:46 pm
McFann…………….what else would you call trying to make a back handed snag..instead of shifting his body over to block a wild pitch? It’s called LACK OF EFFORT.
I’m not saying that McCann is a lazy ball player. I’m saying that for whatever reason, when it comes to wild pitches, McCann tries too often to do the back handed thing………when he needs to block the wild pitch when runners are on base.
Just because his defense is probably average at best……does not mean that I dont love his hitting. I’ve been a McCann supporter from day one. Why? Because he rakes at the plate. I can live with his “average” defense….as long as he continues to rake at the plate.
By the way, wasnt you the one who wanted Bobby Cox to drop McCann to the #8 slot in the batting order last year when he was slumping? You were quick to be all over McCann during that time.
Christopher Chance
August 31st, 2010
4:49 pm
Jesse Stone……..if Francoeur has a good September, he will be tendered. If not, then his chances of being tendered go down.
However, Manuel likes Francoeur and the Mets fans like him. Plus, he has the arm to play right field (especially if Pagan has to play center if Beltran continues to struggle).
Christopher Chance
August 31st, 2010
4:54 pm
Bat Masterson……dude, my analysis of Francoeur being offered arbitration by the Mets doesnt suggest that I feel that Francoeur is worth being potentially paid $7 mil or more in 2011………..it’s more reflective of how sad the Mets roster is.
Omar loves giving big contracts to players he like. Francoeur is a player that the fans in New York do not want to see leave. Look, I’m glad that Francoeur is gone. He has many flaws when it comes to hitting. However, judging by how the Mets have signed players in the past, I dont see that it is unreasonable to say that the Mets tender Francoeur.
Christopher Chance
August 31st, 2010
4:57 pm
Phillies, Class of the NL…………….true, overall from a defensive standpoint, Brian McCann is probably a below average defensive catcher.
However, McCann is a WAY ABOVE AVERAGE offensive catcher. If you compare his stats to other catchers in the game…..only Joe Mauer is in the same league as McCann.
Sure, Ruiz is having a nice year with the bat for the Phillies and plays good defense………I’d rather have McCann. Ruiz cant touch what McCann does at the plate.
Choppinmama
August 31st, 2010
5:00 pm
It’s funny, when Francoeur got called up, was getting all the attention in the bigs, I was feeling a little sorry for BMac. How the tables have turned. AS MVP, leader of the team, and going to be a dad in the new year.
Let’s add another world championship to his record and they’ll be no doubt as to where he ranks among 2010 catchers.
Christopher Chance
August 31st, 2010
5:13 pm
One thing that is overlooked is the impact that a potential upcoming injury by either the Braves or Phillies could have on the race to the finish. These last 31 games will be more magnified.
DEFENSE. The Phillies play MUCH BETTER defense than we do. However, our defense has improved with Ankiel playing center (dude’s arm is going to come into play when it comes to preventing runners from taking an extra base)……..Prado moving to 3rd to replace Chipper (who is way past his prime)…….along with Lee taking over for Glaus (who simply SUCKED playing 1st).
I want to see the Braves win. I feel that this Braves team has the ability to win the division.
However, until this Braves team PROVES that they can deal with the PRESSURE that the Phillies have PROVEN in the past 3 years that they can bring at the end of the season……………the Phillies have to be respected and taken seriously.
The Braves lost 7 games in a row at the end of 2009 (talk about going out with a whimper), despite being in the wild card chase. The Phillies were down 7 with 17 left and ran the Mets down a couple of years ago to win the division.
My point is, this thing is not in the bag. Far from it. Until we PROVE it, the Phillies are the favorite. A 3 game lead with 31 left aint SH1T! There is A LOT of baseball left to be played.
voice of reason
August 31st, 2010
5:47 pm
ha ha mcanns propensity for bad throws is a concern huh meanwhile the only cut off man haystacks hit all season was once he nailed buddy backing up the plate mind you he overtrhrew omar glaus and mccan before it got to huddy but still everyone knows he he has a high defensive matrix lmao
McFann ♥ ;Ô; ♥ ;Ô; ♥
August 31st, 2010
6:17 pm
CC By the way, wasnt you the one who wanted Bobby Cox to drop McCann to the #8 slot in the batting order last year when he was slumping?
It IS you!!! Bat was right!
Too freakishly funny! (And I use the word loosely…)
No. I NEVER SERIOUSLY WANTED McCANN TO BAT EIGHTH!! I was frustrated at the time and wanted something to get him going…if I did indeed say “bat him eighth”, it wasn’t literally where I thought he deserved to bat…I just wanted his bat to get going…I am NOT gonna tell you this again. Please, let it friggin’ go already. Gyah…
And no, I wouldn’t always call backhanding a lack of effort. Not always the best choice, but those pitches do crazy things when they get to moving.
McFann ♥ ;Ô; ♥ ;Ô; ♥
August 31st, 2010
7:02 pm
Excuse me…that was Ease that suspected you…my bad.
bruce
August 31st, 2010
11:26 pm
very nice story Mark… thank you, Brian is truly classy.