Show #116: The 2010 Braves at the Halfway Point

July 11, 2010

Show #116: The 2010 Braves at the Halfway Point

Omar Infante backlash, All Star no shows, Yunel Escobar, and looking back at the first half of the Braves’ season.

Show #116 [ 56:56 ] Play Now | Play in Popup | Download

298 Responses to “Show #116: The 2010 Braves at the Halfway Point”

1
Bub Selig Says:
July 12th, 2010 at 6:26 am
Great show. Nice to find in a fit of insomnia.

I agree with Stevie on Yunel (no surprise). Done with Yunel. It’s not easy, because his defense is one of the most exciting spectacles on the team. The chance to see something special is highest with Hanson, Heyward, and Escobar. But I’m over him.

Scouts point to him thinking he’s better than he is. So the double downside is that even if he improves, this side of his personality will flare even more. He’s an embarassment to the organization. The whole “everybody can’t be Atlanta” chant that other teams use when they’re embarassed by a snotty player is on the line. I like the reputation of class. I want him gone. He will improve again, and when he does, Atlanta will take advantage of it by trading him. As bad as he’s been, I don’t think we’ve seen the worst of Yunel’s antics. Mark it down. When Escobar gets more comfortable than he is with Bobby, he will be worse, not better.

I’m with Steve on Wren’s trade remarks, too. It’s one thing to say you can’t stand pat, but you shouldn’t make a trade just to make a trade. Mike Minor and Teheran are the future of this orgainization. Minor is great beyond his reputation. His stuff is getting nasty, AND he’s got the smarts and calm between the ears that make Medlen, Hanson, and Jair good pitchers immediately instead of waiting through fits of nerves or flakiness. Mike Minor is a huge asset. No way on earth I’d lose him for a LF who just MIGHT be better than Diaz/Hinske. No way. Like Steve says, if you take that chance, it’d better be Teixeira.

My MVP is Prado.
My LVP is McLouth, whose flop was more destructive to April than KK or Escobar.

Lowe’s not an IF because he’s starter #5.
Glaus is an IF for me, too. But not a big one.
Saito is a heavylarge IF. He’ll cost the Braves some games just because of his position in close games, and Bobby will be slow to react to his trouble.
Prado is no IF. Ever. Again. I’m sold.
Chipper’s an IF. As in “IF he doesn’t retire, it will hurt the team going forward.”
McLouth is an IF, but I have some hope for a rebound.

And the answer to all the IF’s not burying us: Hanson, Hudson, Jurrjens, Medlen, and even Lowe (and EXCELLENT 5th starter, don’t be fooled.) This team is starter-driven.

I think the AL will win the ASG.

2-2 against the Brewers, since my reserve has served us well by being wrong.

Go Braves!
2
Bub Selig Says:
July 12th, 2010 at 6:49 am
p.s. Very hard to not go with Bobby for MVP. He’s spread out the pen use, made the managerial move of the year by shelving KK (that’s not just against ATL tradition, almost no team will bench money), put on squeezes and hit-and-runs in a timely, exciting fashion, and for once I have to be happy with his even demeanor, sugar-coating included. Especially since he has matched the calm responses of April with equally chilled responses to the Braves dominance in May-thru-now.

I still don’t think he’s an X’s or O’s guy for the most part, but I think he’s won more games than he’s lost this season, and that he’s managed “younger” than he has in a long time. He’s even played the hot hand (Venters, Blanco, Medlen, and Heyward all spring to mind – meaning Heyward’s relatively quick move to the #2 spot when he earned it.)
3
Ham Says:
July 12th, 2010 at 9:40 am
Bub – I agree about not just selling Minor for short money to get a bat that might help us in the short term. I do however think that we should always be open and looking for ways to smartly improve the team. Wren doesn’t strike me as the type to be cavalier or irresponsible with his assets, but we should always be a work in progress.

Also, what about the money that was saved from the Vazquez salary dump? I know it was only a couple of mil, but surely we could use that in some sort of productive way.
4
Steve Says:
July 12th, 2010 at 9:45 am
Bub – I think your comments are very insightful and wise (particularly all the agreeing with me).

So both you and Curt think Bobby is a real candidate for MVP. I do hope the earth doesn’t fall off its axis today. I agree that this year has been stunningly good for Bobby.
5
Curt Says:
July 12th, 2010 at 9:54 am
And Bub, my thinking was that we might could find someone who could boost our output without giving up a big farmhand. There are some guys out there playing for some lousy teams making $5-6 mill who you could get for nothing. I don’t see that there are franchise changers floating around, but I’m not convinced the Braves need that right now. Get a Mike Devereaux type.

As far as Prado and McLouth, yes on both. We just didn’t all want to talk about them.

And I would throw Dunn in on the list of guys who should be untouchable.
6
Nate Says:
July 12th, 2010 at 11:23 am
I know he didn’t do it this offseason, but Wren also worked his tail off to get Infante. I’m starting to believe he knows how to put a team together. You have to hold on to Escobar because Chipper is going to retire, which means Infante and Prado will play 2nd and 3rd next year (I hope). Glaus and Chipper, to me, are both an IF, and it scares me because Bobby’s going to leave both in the middle of the order. Chipper still batting 3rd is the reason Bobby isn’t MVP for me.

MVP- Tim Hudson
LVP- McOut
I went with Hudson because of the leadership he brings. I heard Hanson say this about Hudson on the FOX coverage: “He’s our guy”. The way Hanson talked about him and was watching him pitch sold me. He is the leader of a rotation that could carry us to the postseason. It was really hard not to say it’s Martin.

As far as trades go, I don’t think you can give up any of the pitching prospects unless you’re getting a long term power bat for LF or CF. That’s why a Corey Hart trade wouldn’t surprise me. I don’t like it, but I’m expecting something like it to happen. The Nats will ask for our farm for Willingham or Dunn, which is beyond absurdity. Something needs to be done because soon we will have McOut and Escobar in the same lineup again. This worries me for our immediate future because a lot of our runs over the last few weeks were produced by the lineup turning over around Gregor Blanco being followed by the other two members of the Venezuelan Thunder Trio. That said, 3-1 over the Brew Crew. NL wins. Go Braves!
7
Nate Says:
July 12th, 2010 at 11:23 am
BTW, Great show! I was so excited about the discussion that I forgot to mention it.
8
Nate Says:
July 12th, 2010 at 11:29 am
McOut doing well for the G-Braves means nothing. Chris Resop did really well there, Blanco did really well there, JJ didn’t. With all three of those in mind, I don’t know what doing well for the G-Braves means anymore. Bub, try some Chamomile Tea and bananas. I have the same problem and those work for me. My doc also told me to avoid spicy foods in the evening.
9
Bub Selig Says:
July 12th, 2010 at 12:53 pm
” my thinking was that we might could find someone who could boost our output without giving up a big farmhand.”

Curt, okay, I could go for that. The Minor-for-Hart rumor made my face twitch.

Nate, good point about Huddy’s leadership. And thanks for the insomnia advice. I did, in fact, eat some jalapeno sausages late, so it could be.

Ham, I’m with you on “where’s the Vazquez dough?” All the “Braves won’t add the salary” comments coming from the rumor mill are highly discouraging. It’s nice to compete at 83 million, but that number needs to move up, especially if it means putting us over the top.

My hope is that it will move up this winter. Significantly. Make a move for a defense-first, cheap SS, and pump all of Esco’s salary (it’s Arby time, isn’t it?), Diaz’s salary (sorry, Matty, it’s time to go for broke on a FA), Glaus’s salary(Say hi to Frederick Freeman), plus 5-10 million more into a power LF. Get the best LF available, period. The money is there.

With a power LF and RF in 2011, we could afford to go defense-first at SS, especially since we have power at a defense position elsewhere (McCann). Of course, we’ll lose power at 1B, but we’d still be down just one power position, and with our starting pitchers, that’s fine. Besides, Freddie will have some pop by 2012 I expect.
10
Kate Says:
July 12th, 2010 at 3:46 pm
The NL all-star lineup from DOB

Hanley Ramirez, Marlins, ss
Martin Prado, Braves, 2b
Albert Pujols, Cardinals, 1b
Ryan Howard, Phillies, dh
David Wright, Mets, 3b
Ryan Braun, Brewers, lf
Andre Ethier, Dodgers, cf
Corey Hart, Brewers, rf
Yadier, Molina, Cards, c
Starting pitcher: Ubaldo Jimenez, Rockies RH
11
Steve Says:
July 12th, 2010 at 3:47 pm
And the Braves’ gate is up pretty significantly this year. Do we get to spend any of that extra money at the trade deadline? I’m guessing not.

I’m disappointed that Prado is not leading off. Again, being disappointed by that is another indication of how magical things are right now.
12
Nate Says:
July 12th, 2010 at 3:55 pm
I don’t think Escobar’s going anywhere after reading comments from Jeff Schultz on an interview he did with the Ice Man, Frank Wren. You have to click on the entry by Schultz’s picture. If you click on the one under Esco’s picture it takes you to an article on breast sweat.
13
Kate Says:
July 12th, 2010 at 4:08 pm
.223/.301/.294 3HR for the starting all-star catcher. And people complain about Infante being on the team.
14
Steve Says:
July 12th, 2010 at 4:14 pm
Great point, Kate. Great point.
15
Anne Says:
July 12th, 2010 at 6:38 pm
Is it wrong that I watch the Home Run Derby like a car wreck? I’d love to be one of those kids shagging balls in the outfield.
16
Bub Selig Says:
July 12th, 2010 at 6:42 pm
I actually agree with using a defense-first catcher in the ASG if the goal is to win the game. ASG’s lately are pretty low scoring. Defensive catcher is active for 35+ batters. Offensive catcher hits 2 or 3 times.
17
Nate Says:
July 12th, 2010 at 6:52 pm
Molina was voted in by die hard Cardinals fans, so there was really no decision to be made on that one. It seems like every year there are a couple of guys who make it because they play in NY. Molina’s started a few times now because he plays in STL. If Chipper played in St. Louis he would probably would of made the team more than 6 times, including this year. You can’t blame their fans for voting.
18
Bub Selig Says:
July 12th, 2010 at 6:52 pm
p.s. McCann will get more rest this way. Catching a game is exhausting, and with the pressure of the ASG, it would be worth two games of stress.
19
Nate Says:
July 12th, 2010 at 6:53 pm
“he would probably would of”- it’s been a long day.
20
Mara Wanna Says:
July 12th, 2010 at 7:27 pm
Fantastic show! One of the best IMO. I’m not giving up on Escobar. I thought Hammy’s point about seeing how he reacts to a different manager is very valid. I’m not saying Yunel (have I mentioned my daughter calls him “Urinal”?) doesn’t have a chip on his shoulder. I’m not saying he doesn’t pout although I don’t think we can put a ton of credit into body language. Sometimes I wonder if we get so used to the way he makes fantastic plays look easy he seems lazy or slow when he isn’t able to make them. Last year he had fits of sulktitude and we all agreed (even Steve) that his talent was worth putting up with the immaturity. I know his bat is terrible right now. So bench him for a bit but we haven’t completely given up on Chipper or McCann. His BA is only 15 to 20 points below McCann and Glaus (if my chart reading is valid which isn’t my specialty). And come on…his issues aren’t as bad as the likes of Hanley Ramirez, Milton Bradley or Zambrano and his FPCT is higher than Derek Jeter who we all know is God’s gift to the short stop position (tongue in cheek).

The human element is one of my favorite parts of baseball…the fact that every player has his moments. I, quite frankly, enjoy when Glaus throws stuff and stomps when he strikes out. I like how at times your veteran 3rd baseman has to encourage the younger definitely less mature SS. I hate disagreeing with Steve especially when the Professor is on his side because it usually means I’ll be proven wrong but there you have it.

Hammy, I accept your Prado apology. I think NL wins tomorrow night because it’s just time. You can’t win them all etc.

Again, great show. I laughed out loud when Ham said “Stevie, I think Curt’s an “IF”.”
21
Nate Says:
July 12th, 2010 at 8:06 pm
Two potential future Braves in this derby
22
Marra Wanna Says:
July 12th, 2010 at 8:43 pm
I wonder if Mac can get Corey Hart to follow him home?
23
Bub Selig Says:
July 12th, 2010 at 8:44 pm
There goes Corey’s HR swing for a month.
24
Nate Says:
July 12th, 2010 at 8:46 pm
Bron Bron and Corey are trying to bring the Abe Lincoln beard back.
25
Nate Says:
July 12th, 2010 at 8:49 pm
I hope Hanley’s pitcher throws at him.
26
Curt Says:
July 12th, 2010 at 9:56 pm
I think there should be a moratorium on the steroid ban for all HR Derby entrants. In fact, have andro sponsor it.
27
Nate Says:
July 12th, 2010 at 10:00 pm
J-Hey
28
Nate Says:
July 12th, 2010 at 10:10 pm
Hmmm…. looks like we have some attractive team members for the celebrity softball game, and no I don’t mean Ricky Henderson.
29
Bub Selig Says:
July 12th, 2010 at 11:54 pm
Mara, I drove from campus to the lake with “I and Love and You” on a rather nice car stereo (not my car) today. Very good driving tunage.
30
Mara Wanna Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 9:20 am
That’s awesome Bubdylan. I think that album is timeless. Again…you must see them in concert one day.

Couldn’t watch all of the derby I got so bored, don’t even know who won. My boy and I are gearing up for the game tonight. Let’s get ‘em NL!
31
Curt Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 9:40 am
Braves are once again top-3 amongst most poular MLB teams trailing only the juggernauts that are the Yanks and the Sox.

http://www.harrisinteractive.com/NewsRoom/HarrisPolls/tabid/447/mid/1508/articleId/434/ctl/ReadCustom%20Default/Default.aspx
32
Anne Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 9:56 am
The last thing I want to see tonight is a moment of silence for Steinbrenner. Hang in one more day, Steiny!
33
Curt Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 9:59 am
Too late
34
Mara Wanna Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 10:03 am
“No, I never got nervous,” he said “It’s the game of baseball, not a game that relies on one person. It’s a team game, so I just go out there and have fun.”

Gotta love the kid. I meant to include in my rant…Fair on his not playing in the AS game. Partly because I want him ready but also because who knows if he’ll come out of the gate in rare form. I would hate for him to strike out swinging in front of all the people. Fair on Wags as well. I love his dedication to the team and the 2nd half.

I was visiting friends in Pittsburgh who try and pretend baseball doesn’t exist. They knew exactly who Jason Heyward was and asked a dozen questions about him. I felt like they were trying to make sure he was in fact a legend rather than a myth.

RIP George Steinbrenner.
35
Anne Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 10:05 am
I can NEVER have nice things.
36
Steve Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 10:17 am
Anne – that’s pretty funny. I saw the “Steinbrenner to the hospital” story an hour ago and had the same exact thought – just hold on one more day so that the entire telecast doesn’t become about him tonight. And now Curt’s comment broke the news for me. Oh well. Fox is SCA-RAMBLING right now shuffling around their pre-game show I’d bet.

It will all drop to the background when Omar hits the game winner for the NL tonight.
37
Nate Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 10:30 am
Steve, I hope so. That would be so awesome. I don’t get the fuss over his selection. They told Manuel to pick a super utility guy for the team, and Omar’s the best in the league. Mara, the interview with the Masher last night was fantastic. The ESPN dudes were groveling in his presence afterwards. It says a lot about the kid that he’s not even participating, and they still gave him about a minute of airtime last night. It was the only part of the event for which I took my headphones off.
38
Nate Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 10:31 am
ESPN is pretty much proving they’re the Yankees bitch right now. If any other owner had died, aside from maybe Jerry Jones, there is no way it takes over ESPN entirely.
39
Nate Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 10:34 am
Mara, Bub, I checked out that album this morning out of curiosity. Thank You. They’re quite good.
40
Marra Wanna Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 10:46 am
Welcome to the club Nate.
41
Curt Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 11:13 am
Of all the seasons, 96 was so far and away the worst, and for that I will forever hate Steinbrenner and the Yankees. That season effectively ruined baseball.
42
Marra Wanna Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 11:30 am
I’m changing my name to Carter. @Braves re-tweeted me one time and I loved it! Everybody should also follow the braves Organist. He’s always looking for song suggestions for opposing players

http://buzztap.com/-vF670W
43
Nate Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 11:51 am
I guess ESPN doesn’t realize the Yankees already have their own network. Curt, agreed on 96. I hope some reporter out there grows a pair and does the story on how “The Boss” ruined modern baseball, which he did. A story could also be done on how a large number of the players on his teams used PEDs, and for that reason I count none of their championships. Glavine never juiced. Go Braves!
44
Curt Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 1:13 pm
Nate, they have had that programming in the can for years. Those sappy, pre-produced sobfests about a genuine jerk. Boo hoo. And his son is worse than he was.
45
Bub Selig Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 2:15 pm
“Those sappy, pre-produced sobfests about a genuine jerk.”

It’s a puzzle how our culture, which lives to detest famous jerks and hold them in absolute contempt, can’t resist these “he was such a character” turnabouts when they die. I can’t help wondering what we’d say if Hitler was a 21st Century American. “He sure had a way with words?” “Underneath it all, he shared a mustache with Charlie Chaplin?”

If I outlive Terrell Owens and Barry Bonds, I know there are two weeks of my life when I absolutely will not watch television.
46
Marra Wanna Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 2:27 pm
Anne called it…
“MLB will have a moment of silence for Steinbrenner before tonight’s All-Star Game.”

Watching Despicable Me with the offspring. Big ugly lady frowning at my use of cell phone in theatre. I turned down the brightness for crying out loud. It’s alright…I can take her.
47
Nate Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 2:28 pm
I guess everyone’s forgetting he was banned from baseball for being a complete scum bag. After he was let back in, he went about winning by any means necessary….
48
Bub Selig Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 2:29 pm
$5 on the Big Ugly.

I wish they’d have a moment of silence for Steinbrenner that lasted until tomorrow.
49
Nate Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 2:31 pm
Shocking to read a Yankee loving interview with Bobby Cox on the ajc page…
50
Bub Selig Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 2:39 pm
Bobby Cox talking to the bathroom mirror after hearing Steinbrenner died:

“You’ve glossed over Escobar for three years. You told live reporters that one of Kawakami’s best games was giving up 6 runs. You… support … Terry… Pendleton.”

*straightens tie*

“You can do this. You can do this.”
51
Curt Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 3:45 pm
Did you guys see that when Charlie Manuel was announcing his lineup for tonight he introduced the starting 2nd baseman and 2 hole hitter as ‘Pardo?’
52
Nate Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 3:50 pm
Curt, I did see that. You’d think if he liked him so much he’d know his name. Aside from the number 9 hitter, that lineup is dirty. Please win NL, please. Bub, don’t forget his comment about Escobar’s lollipop to Glaus the other night. I think he said that the wind blew it off course.
53
ham Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 6:32 pm
#50 was inspired.
54
Marra Wanna Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 7:45 pm
Seriously funny stuff.
55
Anne Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 8:11 pm
Who wants to hold Tim Lincecum down while I cut his hair??
56
Marra Wanna Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 8:21 pm
Oooo…pick me , pick me!!!!
57
Anne Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 8:33 pm
“Mara” – you have the job. I’ve been in my kitchen perfecting summer peach mousse since this game may never start, what with the umpteen photos of Steinbrenner and his family. AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAUGH!
58
Anne Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 8:52 pm
Good effort, Martin.
59
Marra Wanna Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 8:53 pm
He almost made it. Hey Anne, I just sent you a DM tweet.
60
Anne Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 8:58 pm
Uhhhh…Bob Sheppard intro of Jeter…creepy???!!! …and were they kidding that’s how he’ll be introduced at every at-home at bat from now on? …maybe they’re talking every at-bat tonight? I’d rather take Crazy Train over Dead Guy.
61
Anne Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 9:01 pm
“Mara” – you’re going to LOVE my response!
62
Nate Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 9:23 pm
I’m worried about the NL’s chances. Rumor has it Pettitte, A-Rod, and Papi were passing out PEDs to all the AL players before the game.
63
Marra Wanna Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 9:29 pm
Anne is the BEST!!!
64
Steve Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 9:54 pm
Why is McCann is coming in? It’s not the 9th inning yet?
65
Steve Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 9:55 pm
C’mon Mac! Getting big love from Joe Buck.
66
Steve Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 9:57 pm
Damn.
67
Nate Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 9:58 pm
What? Mac getting love on Yankee appreciation night?
68
Ham Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 10:02 pm
That was so close.
69
Curt Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 10:08 pm
Rassa frassa
70
Marra Wanna Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 10:18 pm
He’s just saving the glory hit for Infante.
71
Nate Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 10:54 pm
Come On Mac!
72
Nate Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 10:55 pm
Boo-Yah!
73
Tcc Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 10:55 pm
B Mac!!!!
74
Marra Wanna Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 10:55 pm
WAFREAKINHOO!!!!
75
Bub Selig Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 11:03 pm
Happiest. Moment. All. Season.
76
Bub Selig Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 11:08 pm
Clint Hurdle to his wife on the couch as the watch tv: “Don’t say a frikkin’ word…”
77
Bub Selig Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 11:10 pm
*they.

Oy.
78
Marra Wanna Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 11:17 pm
I’m loving this game! Mac to himself after he hit his bases clearing double, “9th inning my ass.”
79
Kate Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 11:21 pm
Joey Votto has seen two pitches tonight.
80
Nate Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 11:24 pm
Kate, he’s using the Escobar method.
81
Kate Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 11:25 pm
And getting the same results.
82
Nate Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 11:34 pm
Bourn is this all-star team’s McLouth
83
Marra Wanna Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 11:37 pm
I changed my mind…foul on Wags staying home. I wish he were warming up in the bullpen.
84
Marra Wanna Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 11:43 pm
Who else is holding their breath? Come on double play!
85
Tcc Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 11:48 pm
Oh, yeah!!!
86
Nate Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 11:48 pm
Surely Mac is MVP.
87
Marra Wanna Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 11:48 pm
No way anybody but Mac gets MVP! So proud!
88
Bub Selig Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 11:49 pm
HAHAHAHAHAAAA!!! YEAH BABY YEAH!!!!

BRIAN MCCANN A 14 YEAR HERO!!!!

14… 14… why’s that number familiar??
89
Marra Wanna Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 11:50 pm
Ha Nate! Great minds think alike! CLEDUS! Where you been?
90
Tcc Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 11:51 pm
Princess, life is busy these days, but I’m always lurking around, pulling for the Braves!!
91
Marra Wanna Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 11:52 pm
Home. Field. Advantage! I feel like I’m related to B Mac right now. Everytime I see those rosey cheeks on the screen grinning from ear to ear I’m SO proud!
92
Nate Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 11:54 pm
Has a Brave ever been All-Star MVP?
93
Nate Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 11:55 pm
Thanks, Bud, I forgot.
94
Nate Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 11:57 pm
WTF, Ichiro got a Tahoe when he won MVP. Must be the recession…
95
Marra Wanna Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 11:57 pm
Weepy! Literally all choked up. The Rev is never going to let me live this down.
96
Curt Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 11:58 pm
All that whining and he didn’t even get in the game.

That was a fun game to watch.
97
Curt Says:
July 13th, 2010 at 11:59 pm
McGriff won it when he hit an extra inning homer. I think they said it was 94
98
Marra Wanna Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 12:00 am
Bub, you were on TV but they misspelled your name. Where’d you get that pretty trophy?
99
Bub Selig Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 12:01 am
Greatest photo of the year so far. http://espn.go.com/
100
Nate Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 12:03 am
How many Braves, former Braves, or guys who came up through the Braves’ system were in that game?
101
Nate Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 12:05 am
*on those teams, rather, since some didn’t play.
102
Nate Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 12:07 am
I wonder how you say thanks for nothin’ in Spanish. I’m sure that’s what Omar is thinking to himself after all the media grief he got over the past week.
103
Curt Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 12:15 am
Nate, I count 10. I might be missing someone. And that is including Heyward.
104
Wade Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 12:17 am
Guys and gals,
I hate to say this- -but doesn’t everything up til now sorta feel like stars are aligning and the sea is parting for our team? Something feels very goosebumpy and special about this whole deal to date.

The cherry on top thus far was McCann’s frozen rope to clinch the win tonight, and get a sweet bat made out of glass, ice or some other crystaline substance. Perhaps it is Doc Holliday kryptonite, which would be fine with me. I can’t stand that dadgum robot.

Woo hoo. The Braves win without the Braves having to play a game.
105
Nate Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 12:18 am
That’s what I got, too.
The 2 Rangers, Fookie, Soriano, Wainwright, our 5. Does Wags get credited with making the team?
106
Nate Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 12:20 am
Wade, definitely.
107
Bub Selig Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 12:28 am
Nate, yes he does, according to DOB. Wags gets the allstar berth.
108
Curt Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 12:33 am
And 7 of those are Braves draft picks.
109
Anne Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 9:19 am
Dumb girl question: So, the managers of the NL and AL All-Star teams are the managers whose teams won the division pennants the previous year, yes? Let’s just say that the Braves – at the very least – win the NL. Does… Can… Bobby come out of retirement to manage the All-Star NL team next year?
110
Marra Wanna Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 9:44 am
Oooh…good question.
111
Curt Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 10:50 am
I doubt Bobby would do that. One thing he has been great about is deflecting attention away from himself. I was kind of shocked that Manuel did not have him as a coach on the team last night, and maybe he asked him and Bobby declined. I don’t know how it would work. Either the new Atlanta coach or the team who lost in the NLCS? That is a good question.

I’m on it.
112
Curt Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 10:53 am
Managers

Selection of managers and coaches

Normally the managers of the All-Star Game are the managers who faced each other during the previous year’s World Series. The coaching staff for each team is selected by its manager.

This honor is given to the manager, not the team, so it is possible that the All-Star manager could no longer be with the team with which he won. This happened in 2003, when Dusty Baker managed the National League team despite having moved from the National League champion San Francisco Giants to the Chicago Cubs. This has also included situations where the person is no longer actively managing a team. For the first All-Star Game, intended as a one-time event, Connie Mack and John McGraw were regarded as baseball’s venerable managers, and were asked to lead the American and National League teams, respectively. McGraw came out of retirement for that purpose. Dick Williams resigned after managing the Oakland Athletics to the 1973 World Championship. In 1974, he became manager of the California Angels, whose uniform he wore for the game. In 1979, Bob Lemon managed the American League team after having been fired by New York Yankees owner George Steinbrenner.

There have been some exceptional cases where the usual rule was abandoned. After the 1964 season and the World Series, the managers, Johnny Keane of the St. Louis Cardinals and Yogi Berra of the New York Yankees, both left their teams and found new jobs in the other league—Keane was hired to manage the Yanks and Berra became a player-coach with the New York Mets. The Philadelphia Phillies and Cincinnati Reds had finished in a second-place tie in the NL; the Chicago White Sox had finished second in the AL. Cincinnati’s manager, Fred Hutchinson, had died in the off-season, so Gene Mauch of the Phillies and Al Lopez of the White Sox were chosen to be the managers for the 1965 All-Star Game.

Because of the season-ending 1994-95 MLBPA strike, for 1995 the leagues chose the managers of their mythical “league champions”, Buck Showalter of the New York Yankees and Felipe Alou of the Montreal Expos as managers for the All-Star Game.
113
Curt Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 10:54 am
so to answer your question – yes, he could theoretically manage the team next year.
114
Marra Wanna Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 12:01 pm
Nice work Curt.
115
Anne Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 12:08 pm
VERY nice work, Curt!

In other news…a co-worker just called me from her lunch hour to tell me that the Braves have traded Yunel Escobar and Jo-Jo Reyes for A-Rod. I LAUGHED IN HER EAR. No frakking way could that be true. A hilarious rumor, though.
116
Bub Selig Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 12:13 pm
It’s for A-Gonz.

Oh Happy Day. OH Happy, Happy Day.
117
Anne Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 12:14 pm
Now THAT I’d believe. That was a literal game of telephone. Thanks, Mr. Selig.
118
Curt Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 12:21 pm
I’m not sold on this deal. you potentially have no left side of your infield next season. i guess I am happy that we moved Jo Jo. Oh well. That answers that question. That’s a lot of talent to give up for a 33 year old who is having his best season. Ever. By far.
119
Nate Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 12:26 pm
Getting a healthy J-Hey back could be just the trade the Bravos needed. It’s time to pound the Mutts and Sillies into submission. Did I mention I’m really excited about this team? It’s not a matter of hoping we can hold off the other two teams in our division. I will be absolutely shocked if the Braves don’t win the East.

Curt, I think Manuel asked Bobby to be a coach early, but Bobby said let one of the younger guys do it. Knowing Booby, I’m sure if the Braves make it to the series, then he would want the new manager to do the All-Star game next year. That said, the only team that scares me in the postseason (preventing the Braves from making the WS) are the Cardinals. If they make it, which I would be shocked if they didn’t. It would suck to have to face Carpenter and Wainwright in the playoffs. The Braves are traditionally not very good against those two pitchers. The Rockies would also be tough in a 5 game series. Long way to go before then, so GO BRAVES!
120
Nate Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 12:27 pm
Wow, we just gave up a lot of talent for an old guy… Me no likey.
121
Marra Wanna Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 12:36 pm
*pouts*
122
Nate Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 12:37 pm
Alex Gonzalez, yawn. I’m not a fan of the year Escobar is having, but when you compare age and career numbers, there is no way this is a good trade.
123
Nate Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 12:52 pm
My guess is that ajc bloggers are throwing a celebratory party over the Esky trade. They will all make Gonzalez out to be a god based on the 17 hrs he has so far this year. Everyone will ignore that his career BA and OBP are much much lower than Escobar’s. I remember years ago when we traded for that SS from the Cubs, I think his name was for Hernandez, and that was supposed to seal the deal for a Championship. It didn’t. This trade reminds me a lot of that one in terms of the player we’re getting. Who knows, maybe it will work out for the best…
124
Steve Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 12:53 pm
Wow. I’ve been off the grid this morning and just saw the Escobar news. I’m kind of in shock. I have no concerns about losing Jo Jo. That part is a blessing. But I’m surprised about Gonzalez. He kinda blows. Haven’t looked at the minor league guys yet. As much as I was done with Escobar, I’m a little sad about his departure.
125
Curt Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 12:59 pm
Yet you said you were done with him and didn’t want him as our SS next year?
126
Nate Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 1:05 pm
“Gonzalez. He kinda blows.” Exactly Steve, exactly. It raises big question marks, as Curt pointed out, for next year’s left side of the infield with Gonzalez blowing, Chipper’s potential/hopeful retirement, Salcedo isn’t a stud yet, and the kid we got is a single A player… Escobar falls in the Klesko bin of players Bobby couldn’t deal with. What a shame. go braves…
127
Marra Wanna Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 1:09 pm
Good riddance to PettigReyes. My only comfort is that when I disagree adamantly with Steve and/or Bub I’m proven wrong. And, you know, the 17 homers. Ok Big G…please prove me wrong! Poor Yunel. Get used to hearing Oh Canada.
128
Nate Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 1:16 pm
Somewhere in the Braves GM suite Frank “Ice Man” Wren is looking at a picture of Yunel in one hand, waiving a Canadian flag in the other, and laughing like Dr. Claw from Inspector Gadget.
129
Bub Selig Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 1:27 pm
This is a win now move. In the long term, it’s high risk, low reward. But since the Braves make so few of these kinds of moves since the Tex trade, I can get behind it.

I do not believe Yunel will become an elite SS, but he might. I also believe more will come out about just how damaging his attitude has been, stuff we haven’t seen because Bobby is careful. Watch for some Chipper quotes.

Also, this was Yuni’s last year being cheap. We get A-Gonz for 2 years (2011 option) cheap if he happens to perform this year.

Mara, those 17 homers will never repeat. Sorry. But still a solid trade IMO, especially short term.
130
Bub Selig Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 1:36 pm
An unseen long-term benefit: Braves say to the MLB world, “yes, it’s still true that you can not come to Atlanta and act a fool.”

I’ve seldom been prouder. The day after our best personality is hero to the whole league, our worst one is shipped out.

I know personality-worship is a thin game in baseball, but I have tradtion on my side. Who doesn’t love Honus Wagner more than Ty Cobb?
131
Curt Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 1:56 pm
Um….
132
Bub Selig Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 2:09 pm
Seriously?

Oh well.
133
Nate Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 2:35 pm
I still can’t believe it. We just got boned. Glad you’re happy, Bub. Gonzalez is not as good as Escobar. The Braves just sold very low. Hey, but at least we get McOut back….
134
Nate Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 2:54 pm
The more I read from non-Atlanta media on this trade, the sadder I get.
135
Curt Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 2:54 pm
It’s an old family thing. Ty Cobb is a piece of garbage, but my grandfather loved him. He even gave me a program that had been signed by Ty Cobb. So I guess it is more a pro-grandfather thing than a pro-Cobb thing.

All that aside, I hope this isn’t THE move we make.
136
Anne Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 3:14 pm
re #125 – thank you, Curt, for calling out Steve. Keep that boy in line, too.
137
Bub Selig Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 3:14 pm
That’s a cool Cobb story, Curt. I can appreciate that.

“I hope this isn’t THE move we make.”

Unfortunately, that sounds like a leftover comment from the Glaus acquisition. It seems like we are permanently small-time and farm-driven. It’s not the worst thing in the world, but it’s no Fred McGriff.
138
Curt Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 3:23 pm
And yet there seems to be no better year to bet the farm, excuse the pun. I don’t want to give up any of our big farmhands, but it seems like it is right there for the taking if we make the right move. which this one will be tried to be sold as. (English?)
139
Nate Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 3:39 pm
If you want a championship, as a GM, you have to look at the Yankees staff and ask yourself if your offense can beat that… Right now, the Braves, I don’t know. The Phillies failed last year, and I don’t think our offense is better than the ’09 Phillies. Yes, we have a better staff and pen than they did. The Yankess will still score on it, though. Winning the NL is great. The Bobby Braves have already done that a lot. I’m not saying losing Escobar makes us a weaker offense this year. I’m saying more moves have to be made if we are going to use the “let’s get it done this year for Bobby” approach.
140
Marra Wanna Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 3:47 pm
It’s good to see Wren isn’t just sitting on his hands. Maybe there is more to come. What I really don’t understand is why they wanted Reyes?
141
Marra Wanna Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 3:50 pm
The Mother Blogger likes it…see what I dis there?

“Frank Wren has made some very good trades and a couple not-so-good. This one looks to be one of his best, without question.”
142
Marra Wanna Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 3:53 pm
Jon Heyman

“bobby cox has to be thrilled to be rid of underachieving space cadet yunel escobar. alex gonzalez is a nice early going away gift for cox.”
143
Bub Selig Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 3:57 pm
“The Mother Blogger.” I like it.

I don’t see how DOB (or anyone) could voice this as a clear win for the Braves if you’re talking in typical terms of winning a trade.

Of course I LOVE it, but even I wouldn’t call it one of his best just yet. Not with Ohman and ALLSTAR Infante coming back for… who was it, Ascanio, somesuch? And Jurrjens/Gorkys for Rentalria. (see what I did? Rental? Uh…)

But I could not be happier if I was skipping along the yellow brick freakin’ road with a… with a… *anecdote falls over and dies*
144
Nate Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 4:08 pm
The AJC writers will make it sound like we traded in an ’04 Ford Ranger for an ’09 Benz. It’s their job to do that. The reality is we now have 3 infielders with a history of injury problems. I’ll care what Chipper thinks about Escobar when he becomes a 3-hole hitter again. DOB interviewing Chipper on Escobar, yeah that won’t be a biased interview…
145
Bub Selig Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 4:17 pm
All I meant about Chipper is that he will let the truth of Escobar’s clubhouse distraction slip through most likely. You know he can’t help himself.
146
Nate Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 4:32 pm
Oh, I know, Bub. I get the feeling Chip and Yunel never got along. I don’t think Yunel understood why Chip was so coddled considering all the fielding errors Chipper makes and never really gets called out for it. Not to mention that Chipper, aside from maybe McOut, has been the Braves worst offensive player over the last year and a half. Yunel was the black sheep of the Braves because of his immaturity and attitude. Let’s all forget that Yunel didn’t have the same advantages in his upbringing that most Braves players had growing up. Maybe, just maybe, that accounts for his demeanor and immaturity. Now, hopefully, Yunel will get a manager and organization that know how to handle that. Since 2008, comparing Yunel and Chipper, Yunel’s been the better player, which is why I could care less what an underperforming Chipper at the end of his career thinks about Yunel.
147
Nate Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 4:43 pm
*couldn’t care less. I’m done ranting on Yunel. He’s gone. There’s a lot of ball left to play before the playoffs.
148
Bub Selig Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 5:04 pm
“Let’s all forget that Yunel didn’t have the same advantages in his upbringing that most Braves players had growing up. Maybe, just maybe, that accounts for his demeanor and immaturity.”

That’s very valid when considering him as a person, but once he’s a problem in the clubhouse, from a baseball point of view, his reasons for becoming petulant don’t hold much value, in my opinion. (Though I’m not unsympathetic to those facts and it does take some of my “righteous indignation” down a notch, so I’m glad you reminded me.) But the only two baseball questions on that matter are “how bad is it?” and “what are the chances it will improve?”

I think Wren and Cox answered those questions for themselves and pulled the trigger accordingly. I do agree that Bobby’s somehwhat arbitrary doghouse is aggravating, though. And while I’m glad’s Yunel is gone, I hope Fredi G will have a broader approach.
149
Nate Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 5:09 pm
Fair enough, the Bobby Braves have always been about attitude being as important as on-field performance. That amounts to one championship, but a lot of classy post-game interviews.
150
Bub Selig Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 5:17 pm
If you have to be obnoxious to win a championship, then farewell championships.

But I don’t believe that is the case.
151
Ham Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 5:22 pm
I don’t love this trade. I really wish that we could have seen what Yunel brought us w/o Bobby at the helm. He is one year removed from being our MVP. I have a unsettling suspicion that we might be seeing Yunel subbing for Elvis at an upcoming All Star Game in the near future. I do not think that we will see A-Gon at an All Star Game any time soon. Hopefully the farmhands are legit. I also agree that there might be some Yunel antics that we have not heard about . . . yet.

I am glad that we were first out of the gate in the attempt to strengthen the club headed into the second half. Gotta give Frank some credit for that.
152
Nate Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 5:28 pm
I don’t think you have to be obnoxious. That’s not what I said at all. I said the Braves have been a classy organization that has won one championship under BC. The overall attitude has been good, and they just got rid of their one blemish because of his attitude. If it was because of on field performance, then the move makes no sense when considering the performance of other players on the Braves over the past few years. Yunel was all good as long as he was performing. He was no longer performing, so they traded him. if you’re polite like McOut, then you can hit .179 and start on a regular basis when healthy. I don’t think Mcout’s defense is better than Yunel’s at all.
153
Curt Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 5:53 pm
Over his 12 seasons, Gonzalez has a .248 average with 131 home runs and 571 RBIs.

Yuni joins a long list of guys who fall in the “doesn’t do it the Braves way and therefore must be gotten rif of” category. I just see it as more getting rid of a problem, rather than strengthening your team. I get the whole team chemistry argument. Not many organizations operate under a heavier chemistry formula than do the Braves. In any sport. Sometimes this is great, sometimes it is not. You need some energy guys. Some fiery guys. Yunel was obviously such a problem that he HAD to be traded. But don’t sell me that it is any more than a dump. Frank Wren is making a lot of comments about how dangerous Gonzalez is. Please stop.

And in no way am I comparing the two, but the Braves moved another guy who was a little too temperamental for them, and i think it cost them a lot. David Justice was that guy.
154
Steve Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 8:09 pm
Curt, re your #125. I realize it’s contradictory. But I LOVED Yunel. I never actually buy player shirts, but if I consider buying your shirt then you’ve won me over. I considered a Yunel shirt a lot last year. And while his act drove me crazy this year (making it worse that he wasn’t mitigating any of his shenanigans with offense) it’s weird and a little sad that he’s gone.
155
Marra Wanna Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 8:17 pm
Most of you have already heard this but for the one who maybe hasnt here’s a pretty good interview with Wren
http://twaud.io/jGS
156
Marra Wanna Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 8:20 pm
“Alex Gonzalez traded to the Braves to play with Martin Prado as the first ever DP combination from Maracay to play in the Bigs”.

Well that’s kinda cool.
157
Bub Selig Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 9:02 pm
“it’s weird and a little sad that he’s gone”

I swear I’m all alone in this world.
158
Bub Selig Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 9:13 pm
Thanks for the link, Leah. That was the first I heard of that.
159
Marra Wanna Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 9:26 pm
Honestly Professor, your reaction surprises me a little. I’m not saying it’s bad or you’re not entitled to it but just not what I expected. I think it says a lot about how childish ole Urinal was at times as well as the character we have grown to appreciate in this organization. Glad you liked the link.
Did you hear the brothers are releasing a live album in the Fall?
160
Nate Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 10:18 pm
Bub, I understand why you like the trade. You stated earlier that you wanted a defense first, cheap, and any offense is a plus shortstop, and that is what the Braves are going to have for the next couple of years. Again, Wren seems to be following your line of thinking. It could work.
161
Bub Selig Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 10:18 pm
I’m sure you’ve all seen it on the motherblog, but here’s DOB’s first full run at his take on it.

“The Braves traded a shortstop (Escobar) who’s failed to develop into the player they envisioned, a player who has continued to frustrate team officials and teammates with his often-cavalier attitude, his sometime-sullen demeanor, and his occasional mental lapses and failure to hustle at random times.

They traded A player who had the lowest slugging percentage (.284) in the National League, to go with a .238 average and a .334 OBP that would be fine if he hit for any power or drove in runs or did anything else offensively. This year, and the last month of last season, he has not done much of anything offensively.

Yunel’s defense is great, no question. But the shortstop they got, Alex Gonzalez, plays strong defense. (Not as strong as Yunel’s D, and not as good as Gonzalez played D when I covered him in his first seasons with the Marlins, but it’s still well above average D). And while Yunel has 12 extra-base hits (all doubles), 19 RBIs and a .618 OPS, Gonzalez has 43 extra-base hits (17 homers), 50 RBIs and a .793 OPS. And a better attitude.

This trade is about winning this season, and Gonzalez improves the offense significantly. With Heyward returning and Diaz looking in the past couple weeks like the old Diaz, the biggest remaining weakness in the lineup was shortstop. Instead of trading a top pitching prospect, a pitcher like Minor that the Braves believe could be a top-half-of-rotation for years to come, for an outfielder, the Braves traded a struggling shortstop with attitude problems for a shortstly having a career-best season, in hopes that he’ll add some right-handed power to their lineup.”

Mara, I’ll soften up later. You know how I am. Right now I’m relieved to the point of elation. To be honest, the internal battle needed for me to keep on liking Yunel was getting wearisome. He gets way under my skin sometimes. The part of me that likes his smooth moves on the diamond has really been struggling to stay alive.

Plus I tend to demonize players that leave on strained terms. I know that about myself, but it’s hard to buck it.
162
Bub Selig Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 10:25 pm
Nate, that was what I wanted, especially if it allowed for a free agent left fielder purchase. I had pictured it going down in the winter, though, and a younger guy than Gonzalez.

But considering there’s a puncher’s chance that he’ll be defense + a little pop, I’ll take it.
163
Nate Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 10:29 pm
Sounds like DOB thinks this is the last move. I just don’t think there is enough offense on this team to win in the postseason. I believe the Cardinals are going to win the Central. They are a better team than Cincinnati. They have a better manager, and they have better hitting and starting pitching. I worry about the Braves in a seven game series where they will face Carpenter and Wainwright two times each. Plus Jaime Garcia is no slouch. The Braves struggle against Wainwright and Carpenter. If they get by them, they get the Yankees staff.
164
Nate Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 10:32 pm
I’m also more curious to know what guys like Infante and Prado think about Escobar. I know what Glaus, Ross, and Chip think about him already.
165
Bub Selig Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 10:38 pm
Nate, I expect this is our last move unless both Heyward and McLouth struggle out of the gate. If either of those guys post reasonable numbers between now and 7/31, I think Wren will hold tight.

I dunno how deep that’ll get us in the post season, but I’m rooting for a division crown and a taste of October right now. The opening of the Braves’ next great window.
166
Bub Selig Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 10:56 pm
Cyndi Lauper = sublime. “There’s just nothing left for me to do here… but unhook the stars… nothing left for me to do here… but unhook the stars.”

Mara, I’ll be sure to snag the live album when Fall $$ comes in. That’s a legit school expense, yes?
167
Nate Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 11:00 pm
Bub, I always consider it to be one.
168
Tcc Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 11:09 pm
Yak, yak yak. I find no comfort here. Sorry guys, gals and Princesses, but life is too busy to try and keep up with the moment by moment commentary. I’m just going to watch the games. Go Braves.
169
Bub Selig Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 11:23 pm
“but life is too busy”

What’s this “life” thing you speak of? Is it about baseball? Do you have a link?
170
Mara Wanna Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 11:40 pm
#169…hilarious. Cledus, you better not disappear forever ya hear? His life is cute Bub…I met her. Anyway, I’m ready, willing and able to eat my regret. I hope to all that is holy A. Gonz comes out of the gate swinging and for the fences. I’m ready to eat my words, remind the board that you’re always right, and refer to you from now until eternity as “Baseball Mastermind”. A friend who’s a huge Phillies fan told me he wanted to thank me personally for home field advantage. I told him it was obvious Ryan Howard wasn’t going to get it done. HAH!
171
Mara Wanna Says:
July 14th, 2010 at 11:56 pm
Ignore me if you’re tired of the links…or your name is Cledus and you have a life.
http://FANpeeps.com/-8f5S
172
Bub Selig Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 12:40 am
Love the links, Mara.
173
Marra Wanna Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:48 am
Finally! Thursday…thought it’d never come! 10 more hours and it’s time to stomp hops!
174
Nate Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 11:07 am
There’s a quote from Buster Olney in Jeff Schultz’s new story that gets into the Escobar enigma. Olney has a good relationship with most players, and he gets a lot of insider info because players trust the way he uses it. If Bobby doesn’t think your giving max effort, then pack your bags. If you give max effort, then you can bat .179 and start in a key offensive position a lot more than you probably should. It’s a good philosophy, but it’s also a philosophy that will keep McLouth in the lineup unless Wren makes a move.
175
Marra Wanna Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 12:57 pm
Move Wren…move on Corey Hart like white on rice.
176
Nate Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 1:51 pm
So, is the organization thinking Gonzalez is going to fill the SS role until Salcedo is ready? I’m guessing our future infield will include Infante and Prado at 2nd and 3rd. Who is our most viable future SS in the organization? This Postornicky (sp?) guy sounds like another Brandon Hicks. His future seems like it will be as a super utility player rather than a starter. Your thoughts…
177
Bub Selig Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 2:39 pm
Other than pre-minor’s advanced scouting, I don’t know why we’re sure Salcedo is the guy. He hasn’t done much in the states yet, has he?

I believe the SS position will become an offensive weakness like LF has been unless we get lucky somewhere. I figured that when this whole thing went down. I’m fine with it if we actually do replace the LF weakness and keep the rotation strong.

(After all, SS was a weak offensive position during out best half season in years – this one)
178
Curt Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 2:41 pm
Listening to Wren, they are clearly picking up Gonzalez’s option for 2011 and then will worry about it then. It’s only like $2.5 mill. So if Chipper returns, you have your left side. Should Chipper retire, I wouldn’t be shocked if they gave the job to Brooks Conrad to see what he could do for a season – which is insane by the way. He’s a role player, not a starter. And then come 2012 they see where their SS talent has developed and find someone there to replace Gonzalez.

Unless Arthur Blank owns the team in which case A-Rod and Jeter are our left side in 2011.
179
Bub Selig Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 2:43 pm
Starting. Pitching.

Don’t lose your focus, peeps. We’ll be fine.

Remember: http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/blausje01.shtml
180
Nate Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 3:19 pm
This 11 game road trip the Mets are about to go on might be the end of their season.
181
Nate Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 3:22 pm
EOF on the DL with a viral infection? Mike Dunn got called up? Why couldn’t Chavez get the viral infection?
182
Curt Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 3:55 pm
Bub, not to state the obvious, but the Braves won one WS in 14 tries throwing out the likes of Jeff Blauser. They have to start cultivating some more offensive threats for this team, and power threats more imporatantly. Dominating pitching can’t be all you have. There has to be some balance. You can check stats for Maddux, Glavine, Smoltz, Avery, whomever, and they all have great post season ERAs. It was their offense that let them down time after time. Sterling Hitchcock shut them down one year.

post season:
Glavine – 14-16, 3.30 ERA
Maddux – 11-14, 3.27
Smoltz – 15-4, 2.67
Avery – 5-3, 2.90

Don’t get me wrong, I would much rather win with pitching than in some slugfest, but the Phillies are going to get a starter. The Yankees have a crazy rotation, and a lineup that can pound you. It will be tough to compete against teams like that if we rely on Jeff Blauser to get it done. History proves it.
183
Kate Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 4:02 pm
Lineup tonight

Prado
Heyward
Chipper
McCann
Glaus
Hinske
Gonzalez
Blanco
JJ
184
Bub Selig Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 4:22 pm
Curt, the Braves could have won more championships than 1 with those teams. When they did win, they beat one of the most potent offenses of the era in 6 games.
185
Marra Wanna Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 4:26 pm
Viral Infection? That sounds…fun. Hope it’s not contagious. Very excited about this series. Why? No idea!
186
Bub Selig Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 4:31 pm
Speaking of offense, here’s more crackpot detective work I did for the Darkboard.

1995 vs. 2010 offenses

Grissom .693 OPS
Lemke .681
Jones .803
McGriff .850
Justice .844
Klesko 1.004
Lopez .842
Belliard .500

Total OPS points: 6.217

Prado .851
Heyward .821
Jones .770
Glaus .802
McCann .827
Gonzalez .793
Melky .664
Average of Diaz v. LHP and Hinske v RHP .790

Total OPS points: 6.318

I know this is of limited worth, but I though it was worth mentioning. As a starter-driven team, our offense shapes up a lot like 1995.

As for the times changing and all that,

in 1995 reg. season, Braves scored 4.48 runs per game and Cleveland scored 5.83 runs per game.
In 2010 reg. season, Braves score 4.61 runs per game and Yankees score 5.33 runs per game.

So, both #’s have shifted in our favor.

Obviously, being starter-driven isn’t the same thing as having Smoltz, Glavine, and Maddux and the Yankees’ pitching is more dominant than 1995 Cleveland’s was, but I thought these numbers were worth a contrasting look.
187
Marra Wanna Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 5:22 pm
Making Mama proud.
188
Curt Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 6:03 pm
Obviously I agree that we should have won more than the 1. My thinking is that we should have won at least 4. 1991, 95, 96, 98.

But they didn’t. They won one. I’m curious as to why you think that is? Bobby? Luck? Bullpen?
189
Bub Selig Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 6:06 pm
Lemme get back to you on that. I have an answer, but I’m not very confident in it and I won’t to poke at (read: manipulate in my favor) some numbers.
190
Bub Selig Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 6:06 pm
won’t = want
191
Anne Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 6:16 pm
Greetings from Turner Field where (news flash) it’s hot…but I have beer AND water.
Alan the Usher’s two cents on The Trade: Esco will never ever be a team player and will always showboat wherever he may land. “He’s not a ball player.” Alan saw Gonzalez in 2003 while he was a Marlin and liked what he watched developing. So sayeth my ballpark boyfriend.
Brewers just finishing BP. Go Braves!!
192
Bub Selig Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 6:17 pm
In the meantime, though, the Braves are scoring 4.6 runs per game. Do you think we’re a weak offensive squad? We’re in the half of the league and #2, barely behind Philly in the East. And we’ve faced a crapload of aces & high caliber guys.
193
Bub Selig Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 6:19 pm
Plus we play at the Ted and Phillies play at the Toy.
194
Curt Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 6:23 pm
I don’t think they are a weak offensive squad, but I think they can be had. You pitch around 2 maybe 3 guys and the runs will completely disappear.
195
Bub Selig Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 6:28 pm
What? Subtract Melky and you can’t get more that 81 OPS points between any two hitters. Who in all of MLB is that balanced?

Prado .851
Heyward .821
Jones .770
Glaus .802
McCann .827
Gonzalez .793
Melky .664
Average of Diaz v. LHP and Hinske v RHP .790
196
Bub Selig Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 6:29 pm
*I should say… that’s very balanced. Not “who in all of baseball…” because I haven’t looked.
197
Bub Selig Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 6:30 pm
There’s a reason we have “a different hero every time” syndrome.
198
Anne Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 6:43 pm
Gonzalez will be jersey #2. I swear I remember he was #11 for the Jays. Oh, wait…#11 is Kawakami. God forbid we mess up THAT mojo…
199
Anne Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 7:01 pm
Nice “welcome home” ceremony pre-game for our 6 All Stars.
200
Curt Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 7:16 pm
So write it down. Bub says we are winning the world series.
201
Bub Selig Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 7:17 pm
No, no. Not quite. It would be nice, though.
202
Bub Selig Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 7:39 pm
lol, Bizarro world. IBB to the neverwalks man in his first at bat.
203
Anne Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 7:42 pm
Completely strange. By all accounts, Blanco should have had a hit with that batting average. Wonder what the catcher saw that we didn’t? Hmmm.
204
Mara Wanna Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 7:53 pm
There he is…he’s back!
205
Nate Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 7:53 pm
MVPrado!
206
Mara Wanna Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 7:54 pm
14 really is our magic number.
207
Nate Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 7:58 pm
Chipper Smash!
208
Anne Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:03 pm
He needed to make up for that USELESS error!
209
Nate Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:07 pm
Uh-oh….
210
Mara Wanna Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:08 pm
owie…
211
Bub Selig Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:09 pm
*holding breath*
212
Mara Wanna Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:10 pm
Anne, how’s the crowd? Are they excited?
213
Mara Wanna Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:11 pm
Rev thinks J-Hey hurt the boys.
214
Mara Wanna Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:15 pm
Bobby gonna call him “Lexie”?
215
Anne Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:21 pm
Can we call him “Eggo” (A Go) ??
216
Mara Wanna Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:22 pm
haha…
217
Anne Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:25 pm
Giggling at The Rev’s comment…

The crowd is really into the game now – they were not before we scored. Fair weather, as usual…
218
Bub Selig Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:32 pm
My dang mom called. How did Heyward look at the plate? Any wincing?
219
Mara Wanna Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:39 pm
Fouled it off his toe so he’s not so much thinking about any other pain. And you mean your dear, sweet, fantastic mother.
220
Bub Selig Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:42 pm
Yes, I mean her.
221
Anne Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:47 pm
Rephrasing: giggling at the term “the boys” not the injury.
222
Mara Wanna Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:50 pm
We’re only one Hart swing from this game being tied. Need more runs!
223
Bub Selig Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 8:50 pm
Cubs tuning up Moyer. 5-2 baby bears.
224
Anne Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 9:16 pm
Coffey. Prado never has a second cup at home…
225
Bub Selig Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 9:54 pm
Someone was talking about some 2-1 and 3-2 victories on the way. Who was that clever commenter??? 8)
226
Nate Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 9:55 pm
Wagner is just so money.
227
Bub Selig Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 10:08 pm
Nate, you said it man. It’s a real pleasure to watch him do this night after night. So electric. 96, 97, 98mph on one sequence.
228
Bub Selig Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 10:09 pm
Philly gettin’ slapped around now. 11-2 Cublewies.
229
Anne Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 10:12 pm
Cannot BELIEVE Chipper was named MVP of that game. HR, sure – but error, too. I call FOUL (if we were playing fair or foul)
230
Danny Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 10:13 pm
I think Frank Wren may be a genius. I would have given Escobar until next All-Star Break (post Bobby) to come around. The Gonz gives us a shortstop for the post season (This Year!). I think that our utility players (I include Diaz and Melky in this description) can play musical chairs in left and center and get the job done. Especially if Diaz comes back fully.
231
Nate Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 10:14 pm
Nice. I think Lincecum is pitching for the Giants tonight. Beltan’s back. I don’t think Frenchy is a starter in the majors anymore.
232
Marra Wanna Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 10:16 pm
If I were Mrs. Wags I’d make him play. Actually I’d probably be very glad he was going to be home more than 10 days out of the year.
233
Nate Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 10:16 pm
I think Buster Olney is a closet Braves fan.
234
Marra Wanna Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 10:18 pm
“The Gonz”…I like it!
235
ham Says:
July 15th, 2010 at 10:31 pm
I, too, love “the Gonz.”

Yuni loves Frenchy.

Sit on it, NL East.

Thanks, Mr. C.
236
Will Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 7:32 am
Hi guys – Im in Atlanta on holiday. I was so jetlagged I fell asleep during the 5th inning of the All Star game… oops.

I like the Yunel trade I suppose. Agree that we might regret it…but we might not. He was given plenty of time and now seems doomed to the Andruw Jones school of brilliant head cases. Wren sent a strong message about team and about winning this year. He is fantastic. Bobby is blowing me away. This is going to be fun. Braves have a great, realistic chance at going all the way. Die Yankees, DIE.

Any chance we get Dunn? Put Glaus at 3rd, Dunn at 1st. Platoon Chipper at 3rd? Dunn and Glaus platoon 1st? Is that silly?

Going to the game with my Dad next week. Its a businessman’s special in the afternoon next Thursday. Anybody there let me know…

Curt/Steve – if you are around lets grab a brew and watch a night game next week…Ill call Curtis this weekend.
237
Kate Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 8:26 am
McLouth went 1-6 with a K and SB for the G-Braves last night.
238
Marra Wanna Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 8:59 am
Braves made the SC top 10 twice! Both J-Hey clips. #9 was the play where he jeopardized his future children. #2 was the crazy strike to third. Now if he can just get that bat going!
239
Marra Wanna Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:11 am
Lincecum’s a beast. Pitched a complete no hitter, singles in the 8th, slides (awkwardly) into second…dude really is a freak. Gained a game on Sillies and the Mutts. Come on J-Hey, get some hits tonight so you look like your old self again!
240
Anne Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:17 am
Will – welcome back to The States. Don’t know if Chipper would even consider being platooned…nice to dream, though. I am taking the day off next Thursday and I’ll be at that day game. Fathers & sons should ALWAYS go to ballgames together – that’s very sweet. Go Braves!
241
Nate Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:50 am
This is a great time for the Braves “make hay” as Chipper likes to put it. Our next 12 games are against the Brewers, Padres, Marlins, and Nats. The Padres are a nice story, but scoring is important in baseball. The Sillies have the Cubs, then 4 with the Cards, then 4 with Rockies, and then D’Backs. They also have no off days in between all of those. The mets will be out West dealing with the Giants, D’Backs, Dodgers, and then the Cards will be waiting for them at home. Think about the teams the mets beat at home to get back in the hunt, and then go look at their schedule for the next 4 weeks. They are done.
242
Nate Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:51 am
*to “make hay”.
243
Nate Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:01 am
Cliff Lee going to the Rangers is so big for the Braves. The Rays and Twins will go after Oswalt, and the Sillies will get Ted Lilly. I’m not sold on the Yanks making the series. The Rays are playing very well again, the White Sox are on fire, and the Rangers have a lot of offense and a decent staff that now includes an ace. I wouldn’t want to play the Rangers or White Sox in a best of 5.
244
Curt Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:44 am
Will, give me a call.

I too will be at the game on Thursday, actually with the kid. I am chaperoning the class trip to the game. I think my primary responsiblity is taking the boys to and from the bathroom. Should be fun. This is his first game.
245
Marra Wanna Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 11:37 am
Curt, what did you do to deserve that? Have fun buddy. Hope you see a pitch or two. Daddy of the year nomination.
246
Will Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 12:32 pm
Curt – will do. The email from my dad is we have decent seats behind the plate. Me, Dad, my son, and my brother Sam. Father- son- son – grandson outing. Im sure I can meet you at the bathroom. My son has been before, but the attention span thing is still not there. Maybe if Harry Potter or Percy Jackson pinch hits.
247
Curt Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 12:42 pm
I would imagine with our group we will be up there with McCann’s Cans. Maybe I can lobby a bunch of the kids to dress up in their gladiator garb and finally get Jason’s Argonauts going.

Will, you guys are fading Ben?
248
Anne Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 12:46 pm
Anything to get on the Big Screen, Curt. I bet Party City would help you with those gladiator outfits.
249
Marra Wanna Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 1:38 pm
Tonight’s lineup: Prado – 4 Heyward – 9 Chipper – 5 Glaus – 3 McCann – 2 Diaz – 7 Gonzalez – 6 Cabrera – 8 Hanson – 1
250
Steve Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 2:05 pm
Will! Welcome to Atlanta. I catch up with Curt about getting together next week. I know that Scott is coming in for Thursday’s afternoon game. If work permits, I may be there too. I hope it’s oppressively hot.

Very profitable night last night for the Bravos. Let’s get some offense tonight and bury them.
251
Steve Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 2:06 pm
By the way, “Maybe if Harry Potter or Percy Jackson pinch hits.” was hilarious.
252
Bub Selig Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 3:13 pm
“Let’s get some offense tonight and bury them.”

We’re due to blow somebody out. I know Wolf’s a LHP, but he has reverse splits. And he’s (usually) awful any way you slice it. He’s 1-8 when the Brewers score less than 6 runs. Let’s knock him out in the fourth and wreak havoc on their bullpen.

When I think of Hanson and the Brewers, I remember his Jekyll/Hyde debut. Hopefully this’ll be in the middle.
253
Nate Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 4:48 pm
Cubs 4 Phils 3.
254
Marra Wanna Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 5:41 pm
Look at the cubbies!
255
Anne Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 8:10 pm
Holy crap it’s a big bowl of HOT at The Ted. Christmas in July and yes I AM wearing a Santa hat. JumboTron…check! Go Braves.
256
Ham Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 8:17 pm
Yikes – Tommy looks like Tommy Boy, not Tommy Gun. This could be a long night.
257
Marra Wanna Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 8:49 pm
Need a better mic at homeplate. Couldn’t quite make out the last consonant in McCann’s expletive.
258
Ham Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 8:57 pm
I have a feeling that one of our right handed lumber executives is going to hit an opposite field homer. I think it will be in the next two innings. Just a feeling.
259
Marra Wanna Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:12 pm
I sure hope there are three of his buddies on base when he hits it.
260
Marra Wanna Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:15 pm
Make that 4.
261
Nate Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:15 pm
Cheap runs
262
Nate Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:18 pm
MVP
263
Marra Wanna Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:27 pm
Arg. Anne, my man came through what happened to yours? Btw, are you wearing red? I thought I saw you.
264
Marra Wanna Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 9:51 pm
Spoke too soon.
265
Marra Wanna Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:01 pm
Epitome of a rally killer.
266
Steve Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:18 pm
It’s no fun watching a poorly pitched game coupled with no timely hitting. Yikes, KK looks awful. Oh good – Chavez is warming up.
267
Will Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:22 pm
My Dad just changed the channel.

We are now watching “Murder on the Orient Express” on Georgia Public TV.
268
Curt Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:28 pm
This game blows
269
Nate Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:42 pm
Chipper now day to day with a hammy.
270
Nate Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 10:43 pm
Booo
271
Marra Wanna Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 11:01 pm
Winning isn’t as much fun as losing. Just so you know.
272
Anne Says:
July 16th, 2010 at 11:56 pm
Spoiler Alert: Murder on the Orient Express ended the same way as this game: everybody (on the other team) did us in.

I gave up at 6-1…got a little hopeful at 6-2…and then went home for real.

Winning isn’t as much fun as losing…but I suppose you can’t win ‘em all.

“Mara” I was wearing a grey shirt and a Santa hat. The guy with me wore a red Santa shirt.
273
Nate Says:
July 17th, 2010 at 12:58 am
Giants 1 Mets 0
274
Steve Says:
July 17th, 2010 at 1:17 am
“It’s one of the few games we haven’t been in,” – Bobby actually speaking some post-game truth.
275
Steve Says:
July 17th, 2010 at 1:19 am
Nate (#273) – Gotta love it. Profitable night on Thursday. No harm, no foul tonight. Very, very nice.
276
Bub Selig Says:
July 17th, 2010 at 5:47 am
I watched the inning when the Braves threatened on ESPN gamecast, and I was working on some other stuff, so I wasn’t paying total attention.

But every time somebody would come up to bat, I’d look at the on deck batter to think about whether the current batter had to be the one to drive them in. And even though they failed to execute, I was amazed at how many times I was looking at the next guy coming up, thinking he was just as dangerous.

Prado batting with Heyward on deck.
Heyward with Chipper.
Chipper with Glaus.
Glaus with McCann.
McCann with Diaz.
Diaz with Gonzalez.

Those guys can really, really hurt you.

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

Something I dug up re: Hanson to calm myself down:

Tommy’s funk = 5 bad starts (5 ER or more) in a span of 12 starts.

1990, John Smoltz (14-11, 3.85 ERA) had exactly 5 of them in his first 13 starts.

1988, Greg Maddux (18-8, 3.18 ERA) had 5 of them in 10 starts from July 20 to Sept. 8.

1989, Tom Glavine (14-8, 3.68 ERA) had 4 of them in 9 starts from June 2nd to July 17th.

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

Other calming news:

Hanson has given up 0, 1, or 2 runs 13 times this year.

The # of runs Hanson has given up during the 7 non-bad starts while in his current funk:

2,1,2,2,0,0,2.

Bedtime.
277
Nate Says:
July 17th, 2010 at 12:36 pm
Bub, that’s a good point on Hanson. He is still very young and inexperienced. Chipper’s post game quote called attention to what we’ve been saying for a couple months on him. He said they were swinging like they knew what he was about to throw, or something along those lines. I hope it is a problem that can be fixed before too long. The teams that have hit him pretty well(Dodgers, Reds, White Sox, Brewers, Tigers) are all very good offensive teams, and that makes me believe Chipper’s quote even more. I think some of the hitters or coaches on those teams have seen something in video on Tommy, and they are using it to their advantage in the game. It’s not like they’re going through the order a couple of times and then get runs late. Those teams are hitting him early and often.

On a side note, does anyone else have issue with Chiper calling other players out on inconsistent performance? Reading that in his post gamers just really really bothered me. When I read it I was like yeah, but Chipper you popped to second with the bases loaded and one out. Did you have a hit? No you didn’t. The offense should talk critiquing the starting pitchers performances when they start hitting again. The offense has been carried by our pitching a lot lately. Bub, I’ll admit that our line up is definitely more dangerous than Braves line ups of Summers past, but every time we went through the Brewers line up and a guy like Hart, Braun, or Fielder came up I was thinking, “Man it would be nice if we had one of those.”
278
Nate Says:
July 17th, 2010 at 3:51 pm
Tonight’s Lineup: Prado, Infante, Gonzalez, Glaus, Diaz, Cabrera, Ross, Conrad, Hudson. All righties for their lefty.
279
Marra Wanna Says:
July 17th, 2010 at 4:38 pm
Hello from NYC!
280
Nate Says:
July 17th, 2010 at 5:28 pm
Phils 4 Cubs 1. Phils scored 4 in the top of the 9th.
281
Marra Wanna Says:
July 17th, 2010 at 9:25 pm
Can somebody tell me the score? At Bat app isn’t working and I’m in the middle of Mary Poppins.
282
Nate Says:
July 17th, 2010 at 9:36 pm
6-3 bad guys
283
Marra Wanna Says:
July 17th, 2010 at 11:20 pm
Anybody worried by the fact that we lost two in a row…at home…against the Brewers?
284
Anne Says:
July 17th, 2010 at 11:51 pm
Nope. The only thing I’m worried about is Lowe tomorrow … and who’s he gonna plunk?
285
Marra Wanna Says:
July 18th, 2010 at 12:29 am
Was Venter’s lack of location with the Prince intentional? I didn’t see it but I can never tell anyway. Must. Win. Tomorrow!
286
Nate Says:
July 18th, 2010 at 8:17 am
much ado about nothing. more concerned about timely hitting and our lack there of over the past 6 games.
287
Nate Says:
July 18th, 2010 at 8:21 am
is mcout really going to be our next offensive spark?
288
Curt Says:
July 18th, 2010 at 10:15 am
Brewers are now 5-1 in their last 6 if that makes you feel any better. But the two pitchers who beat us were beyond average. That’s my problem.
289
Anne Says:
July 18th, 2010 at 11:05 am
“Mara” – I saw both pitches live…and I have no idea. The radio guys on the way home offered “Venters has such good control, I’ve never seen him throw that wildly.” I heard Bob Gibson talking about plunking batters back in the day – fully admitting he participated in vendettae for the team and had no remorse. Kind of an “it’s what you do” kind of thing. He did say that guys don’t do it much purposefully these days.
Venters is young – he is the Wearer of the Backpack to the Bullpen – I wonder if it’s some kind of hazing?? It’s a little late in the season for the bullpen guys to egg him on, though.
Fielder is certainly a large target and hard to miss!
290
Marra Wanna Says:
July 18th, 2010 at 1:56 pm
If I had thought about the train station being packed with Yankee fans I would have worn my Braves hat.
291
Marra Wanna Says:
July 18th, 2010 at 3:07 pm
Loving the offense ! Makes me feel better.
292
Nate Says:
July 18th, 2010 at 3:12 pm
That was awesome.
293
Nate Says:
July 18th, 2010 at 3:36 pm
Diaz is just crushing the baseball.
294
Marra Wanna Says:
July 18th, 2010 at 9:34 pm
New show?
295
Marra Wanna Says:
July 18th, 2010 at 9:37 pm
I heard Yunel got a grand slam today. Is this true?
296
Nate Says:
July 18th, 2010 at 10:25 pm
cubs 11 phils 3 bot 7th. halladay started. yunel did get a slam today against the o’s.
297
Marra Wanna Says:
July 18th, 2010 at 10:31 pm
Well good for him. I mean that. Come on cubbies!
298
Curt Says:
July 18th, 2010 at 11:18 pm
I’m posting the show, so it should be up in a little while.

Show #116: The 2010 Braves at the Halfway Point

298 Responses to “Show #116: The 2010 Braves at the Halfway Point”

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