Show #140: The Braves 2011 Campaign Set to Begin

March 27, 2011

Show #140: The Braves 2011 Campaign Set to Begin

Discussing the final roster moves. Making our predictions for the 2011 season. And what we hope to see during the first week.

Show #140 Play Now | Play in Popup | Download

125 Responses to “Show #140: The Braves 2011 Campaign Set to Begin”

1
Walker Says:
March 28th, 2011 at 12:02 am
Great podcast. Way to be sensitive with Salazar.
2
Nate Says:
March 28th, 2011 at 2:26 am
just got off work. about to listen. pretty excited. go braves.
3
BRAVEinNY (Matt) Says:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:31 am
Just listened to the podcast… I have to say I disagree about the biggest spring surprise- I kind of saw the Salazar thing coming.

In other news- we have 11 of the 12 spots filled for tonight’s fantasy baseball draft. I will get to the draft room early to chat (if anyone cares).

Matt
4
ferms Says:
March 28th, 2011 at 10:00 am
The bit about making fun of Salazar’s tragedy was really funny. Too bad he didn’t lose both eyes because then it would have been even funnier. Way to go buddy. /sarcasm

BTW, get rid of the new guy. He’s a douche and he talks all over the other guys. Go Braves!
5
Nate Says:
March 28th, 2011 at 10:35 am
#4, agreed.

Plus, how can you rip Chipper for having a good Spring. You know you would rip him if he had a bad one. Come on. Chipper needs a manager to manage when he goes on the lineup card. I know. It’s a crazy concept. Just like Brooks needs a manager to not start him. Hopefully Fredi will do that. 5 games a week, 6 max. No day games.

The versatility from our bench is awesome. Matt Young can play all outfield spots and 2B. Brandon Hicks can do 3B and SS. We’ve seen what Hinske can do. David Ross is clutch when he plays.

The Phillies have some issues. The Utley injury sounds extremely painful. They obviously aren’t the same team with Ibanez batting 3rd. Cliff Lee looked somewhat mortal in the playoffs. Roy Halladay will be unhittable. To me that team is like the Cardinals when they have both their big guns healthy. They are beatable, but the Braves have to step up and do it.

Our pitching staff is the most underrated staff in baseball. Our pitching depth is ridiculous. Our bullpen has the potential to be scary good. Look what the Giants did last year. It’s doable.

NL: East- Braves, Central- Cards, West- Rocks, WC- Giants. Crazy. I know.

AL: East- BoSox, Central- Detroit, West- Who Cares, WC- Twins.

Series: Braves over Red Sox. I like or team a lot.
6
Nate Says:
March 28th, 2011 at 10:37 am
*our

P.S. I totally agree with Hammy on Hamels. I’m not an Oswalt believer either. I’m just glad they got rid of Kyle Kendrick and Jamie Moyer…
7
Steve Says:
March 28th, 2011 at 12:30 pm
Nate – I’m glad about Kendrick and Moyer, too. Great comment.
8
ferms Says:
March 28th, 2011 at 12:34 pm
I think Chipper is heavily driven by what people think about him, so if he hadn’t received the season-ending injury last year I don’t think he would be back this year. I think he was planning on retiring in relatively good form last season. The injury is motivating him to try once again to go out on a high note. I like Chipper and I think he brings a lot to this team, but I don’t see him lasting longer than 2 months tops. Something is going to happen to him again unfortunately, just like what happens seemingly every year.
9
Steve Says:
March 28th, 2011 at 12:36 pm
Everyone – we get that Scott’s Salazar joke was not funny and really, really too soon. Stuff comes out of your mouth when you’re talking off the cuff like this. Please don’t take offense. None was intended.
10
Steve Says:
March 28th, 2011 at 12:37 pm
Matt – the 12th should have just signed up. We should be all full.
11
Steve Says:
March 28th, 2011 at 12:39 pm
ferms – damn, I hope you’re wrong about the Chipper injury. But I fear it too. It will be like the last couple of years, except times 10, holding my breath with every awkward swing, every hard slide, every dive, etc.
12
Curt Says:
March 28th, 2011 at 1:06 pm
I think had Chipper continued the tear he was on right before he was hurt, he would have come back this year. From all the interviews I have read/heard, he still has a great desire to compete. With that, I think that having ended the season on such a high note – again, taking the injury out of the equation – he comes back one more year to finish it all up showing people he still has the ability to put a full season together. Added to that, who knows how much further the Braves go if Chipper is still in the lineup all season and in the post season. Not having to have moved Prado, maybe he doesn’t get hurt. But if the Braves had been together and had pushed on to the NLCS and/or the WS, no way he is not back. I know that is all filled with suppostion, but the whole question is. How much of a difference would a guy make who could hit and field in a series decided by 4 runs or something, with the opponent taking advantage of errors in each game.

Adding to it, I will say it again, Chipper is one of the most underappreciated players in the history of MLB.
13
Steve Says:
March 28th, 2011 at 1:33 pm
Braves and Twins Announce Two-Player Trade
Atlanta acquires right-handed pitcher Billy Bullock from Twins

ATLANTA – The Atlanta Braves and Minnesota Twins announced today that the two clubs have completed a two-player trade. The Braves have acquired right-handed pitcher Billy Bullock from the Twins in exchange for left-handed pitcher Scott Diamond.
The Twins, who selected Diamond from the Braves in the 2010 Rule 5 Draft, offered him back to Atlanta, but the Braves allowed the Twins to keep Diamond in exchange for Bullock.
The 6-foot-6, 225-pound Bullock completed his second season in the Twins organization in 2010, going 2-8 with a 3.53 ERA in 58 appearances between Single-A Fort Myers and Double-AA New Britain. He recorded 105 strikeouts in 74.0 innings pitched, including 60 punch outs in 36.2 IP for the Class AA Club. His combined 27 saves ranked 11th in all of minor league baseball, while his 105 strikeouts ranked fourth among minor league relievers who did not start a game. The right-hander opened the season with Fort Myers (A) where he was selected to the Florida State League All-Star team before being joining New Britain (AA) in late June for the remainder of the season.
In 91 career minor league appearances, Bullock has amassed 150 strikeouts in 150.0 innings while recording 38 saves.Bullock, 23, was a second-round selection by the Twins in the 2009 June Free Agent Draft out of the University of Florida. He was originally drafted in the 20th round of the 2006 June Free Agent Draft by the Detroit Tigers.
Diamond, 24, went 5-10 with a 3.50 ERA in 23 games (all starts) for Double-A Mississippi in 2010. The left-hander owns a 20-13 career record with a 3.17 ERA in 49 games (47 starts) in the Braves farm system.
14
Leah Says:
March 28th, 2011 at 1:39 pm
Comment #4 frustrates me. If you have listened to this show long at all you would recognize the immediate realization that the jokes were a bit soon. I thought it was handled with class. Scott isnt on the show week after week and not as seasoned as the other guys. A little slack and understanding would be nice.

Great show. I’m glad you guys are so optimistic. I’ll feel better once the lineup is all together and our offense kicks in. I don’t know how Chipper can keep from getting hurt. His body seems to wear down super quick. I’m actually encouraged by JJ…not that he’s hurt but that he told somebody. I think he’s going to be awesome. Which terrifies me since I’m rarely right. Martin is as wonderful as always.

Go Braves!
15
Tim in Orlando Says:
March 28th, 2011 at 2:58 pm
”North, Miss Teschmacher! North!”

So I called the ESPN Wide World of Sports hotline and heard: “Tonight’s game between the Atlanta Braves and Washington Nationals has been cancelled.” Those were some of the saddest words I’ve heard all spring. No opportunity to go to Champion Stadium one last time and to see the Braves leave Florida on a win. The weather has been so great this spring with nothing even close to a rainout that this is a real disappointment. Sigh. No opportunity to say goodbye to a lot of good friends like Bob and Pat who travel from Minnesota each year, Steve and Mike our ushers, Charlie the program vendor, or Ashley the prize give-a-way girl who roams the aisles. But it was a great season.

The Braves depart Disney with a record of 16-12-4 for the fourth best record in the Grapefruit League. The Tigers had the best record. At Champion Stadium, the Braves were 10-5-2. Highlights were Chipper’s resurgence, McLouth’s strong spring, and the overall quality of the pitching staff. Low points: Coach Salazar (great to see him out of the hospital), Sherrill & Proctor pitching, Mather, Conrad & Schafer hitting.

I hope that I’ve given you a taste of spring training. It’s not like a regular season game. A lot more relaxed and causal. Winning the game is not the ultimate goal and much as we fans in the stands would like for it to be. There are a lot of things that just don’t happen in a spring training game, such as, situational pitching substitutions (pitches are in there to pitch no matter the batter), changing pitchers in the middle of an inning (happens occasionally but rare), and name players playing the entire game. What you do see are closers pitching the in 4th inning, unknown kids pitching or hitting at critical spots in the game, and of course a lot of unknown players that may become superstars one day – who knows.

So that wraps up another spring training for me. I went to 15 ballgames in 27 days and that’s a lot of baseball. My lovely wife Jackie, my baseball widow, gets me back and I know there’s a long “Honey-Do” list on the refrigerator. But it was great fun as always. I hope you all have an opportunity to experience spring training one day. Come on down the weather’s great….usually.

Steve, Curtis and Hammy over to you. Let’s keep the ball rolling. And as Steve says, “Go Braves!”
16
Curt Says:
March 28th, 2011 at 3:45 pm
Tim, we can’t thank you enough for your great insight this spring. We look forward to you joining us all season, and of course, serving as our permanent ABT spring training correspondant.
17
Curt Says:
March 28th, 2011 at 3:45 pm
Cool story:

http://www.thepostgame.com/features/201103/greatest-pitcher-youve-never-heard
18
Steve Says:
March 28th, 2011 at 4:25 pm
Royals just placed Blanco on waivers. Bastards!
19
Tim in Orlando Says:
March 28th, 2011 at 4:29 pm
Curt – Thanks. It was fun.
20
Steve Says:
March 28th, 2011 at 4:32 pm
Tim. As Curt said, thank you so much for the time and energy you put into the write-ups and photos. It made a great Spring much, much better. Thanks again.
21
Kate Says:
March 28th, 2011 at 5:27 pm
The Royals must be making room for Mather.

If you have MLB network the Braves 30 in 30 is on tonight at 8:00.
22
QC Bravo Says:
March 28th, 2011 at 6:40 pm
Fantasy draft at 8 pm … 30 in 30 on Braves at 8pm. Luckily, they re-run those about 900 times. Can’t wait to hear Billy Ripken critique Heyward.
23
Leah Says:
March 28th, 2011 at 6:42 pm
I’m watching live. I can’t handle the stress of the draft. So nervous…
24
Steve Says:
March 28th, 2011 at 6:49 pm
“The Royals must be making room for Mather.” – Awesome!
25
Leah Says:
March 28th, 2011 at 7:38 pm
Uh-oh…30 in 30 guys don’t like Venters Kimbrel both being closers. They kinda made sense too.
26
Danny Says:
March 28th, 2011 at 7:52 pm
I am pumped about this year! Our two biggest festering “Ifs” seem to be our two biggest surprises this spring(Chipper and Nate). I am now so optimistic that I think the rehab work this winter may keep Chipper healthy for most of the year!
27
ham on whole wheat Says:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:05 pm
Danny – I love the optimism. Deep down inside I am right there with you. Even though my head tells me to be cautious of Chipper’s rapid rehab, I can’t help but feel unrealistically optimistic about this season for Chipper. I am sure he will break my heart, but I am bought in. If he could start for just 80% of our games consistently throughout the season and avoid any long injury stretches, I think he could have a storybook season of sorts.

He could also pull his hammy running out a grounder to third in the second week and then go downhill from there.

I am rooting for the first one.
28
Leah Says:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:51 pm
Greinke…awesome.
29
Pure Says:
March 28th, 2011 at 9:52 pm
When you do these podcasts, do you just use phones? Or can you see each other via webcams? I’m asking because with 4 people in the call, its really hard to control the flow of discussion. In the latest podcast with Scott in the mix, there were plenty of times when you were running over each other to make a point and it was getting chaotic. If you can see each other, even if its just via webcams, maybe it will improve the communication. Go Braves! 95 wins this season!
30
Curt Says:
March 28th, 2011 at 10:27 pm
Pure, it’s done over skype. Obviously, it is normally just the 3 of us and hopefully we have gotten pretty good about our timing with each other. The round table tends to get a little wacky. And we normally we have 5 guys.

Keep on listening and tell all your friends.
31
Curt Says:
March 29th, 2011 at 11:10 am
http://www.cbssports.com/mlb/story/14874254/power-rankings-starting-with-the-good-the-bad-and-the-royals
32
Nate Says:
March 29th, 2011 at 6:16 pm
Thanks for the link, Curt. That was really funny.
33
Walker Says:
March 29th, 2011 at 9:08 pm
GOMEZZZZZZZ!!!
34
QC Bravo Says:
March 29th, 2011 at 9:17 pm
How great was the picture of Glavine, Smoltz, Neagle and Maddux in Part I of DOB’s Chipper Q&A? Nice glasses!
35
Curt Says:
March 30th, 2011 at 7:01 am
So we made our predictions on the show. Anyone else care to weigh in on them? Wins? Chipper homers? McLouth BA? Freeman homers? Most wins and by whom? Venters or Kimbrel, most saves?

Let’s hear it.

I have to say I’m amazed I was the only one picking the Yanks to make the playoffs. Seems to me that there is no way that lineup does not win a bunch of games. They still have Sabathia, Hughes, and Burnett can still do some things.
36
Steve Says:
March 30th, 2011 at 8:47 am
Curt, regarding the Yanks, you’re probably right. It’s just fun (and heartening for me) to see any kind of chink in their armor, and then pick against them. That said, AJ is their #2. Does he really bounce back? Does Hughes continue to grow? I realize they’ll get a pitcher at the deadline and the Sox could be vulnerable if Beckett and Dice K don’t bounce back, but I’m sticking to my guns on this. Wager? A real one, that we actually pay up on? Tickets to a Braves game in late September (when the Yanks are mathematically eliminated)?
37
Curt Says:
March 30th, 2011 at 8:53 am
I’ll get us those tickets we had right behind home plate
38
BRAVEinNY (Matt) Says:
March 30th, 2011 at 8:59 am
Curt, this is how it’s going to go down…
AL East Red Sox
AL Central Twins
AL West A’s
AL Wildcard Yankees

AL MVP Joe Mauer
AL Cy Young Gio Gonzalez
AL ROY Mike Moustakas

NL East Braves
NL Central Brewers
NL West Rockies
NL Wildcard Phillies

NL MVP Prince Fielder
NL Cy Young Roy Halladay
NL ROY Freddie Freeman
39
DAP Says:
March 30th, 2011 at 10:23 am
Braves win 95, Chipper and Freeman both hit 20 homers, and McLouth bats .260. that’ll be fine though because he will OBP .360. Kimbrel will have the most saves and Braves will have a 1-2 punch at the back end of the bullpen that folks will be talking about all season long.

I think the Braves edge out the Phillies for a dramatic Division title win, and the Yanks play many long, high scoring games and win most of them, getting them the AL Wild Card.
40
Kate Says:
March 30th, 2011 at 10:47 am
Wins – 92
Chipper homers – 20
McLouth BA – .262
Freeman homers – 16
Pitcher with most wins – Hanson 17
Most saves – Kimbrel

AL East – Red Sox
AL Central – White Sox
AL West – Rangers
AL wildcard – Yanks

NL East – Phils
NL Central – Cards
NL West – Rockies
NL wildcard – Braves
41
Eric Says:
March 30th, 2011 at 11:10 am
Wins – 93
Chipper homers – 16, but a nice slugging % from doubles
McLouth BA – .268
Freeman homers – 18
Pitcher with most wins – Hudson 17
Most saves – Venters b/c Kimbrel will struggle with his control at some point

I would weigh on the rest of the MLB, but I can’t pretend to know or care about any other team.
42
BRAVEinNY (Matt) Says:
March 30th, 2011 at 12:40 pm
Sorry I forgto about these:

Wins- 94
Chipper Home Runs- 16
McLouth’s AVG- .256 (17 HR, 19 SB)
Freeman Home Runs- 21
Most Wins- Lowe 17
Most Saves- Kimbrel 29
43
Eric Says:
March 30th, 2011 at 12:52 pm
I would take those numbers from McLouth, but they’d have to drop him in the order. They need better than .256 our of the 2-spot.
44
Eric Says:
March 30th, 2011 at 2:04 pm
I caught the end of the game on 680 today. Don Sutton said David Ross bought all the new guys tailored suits. No wonder everyone likes him.
45
Curt Says:
March 30th, 2011 at 2:57 pm
From some other experts:

http://www.cbssports.com/mlb/story/14875265
46
Steve Says:
March 30th, 2011 at 3:15 pm
Eric. That is awesome. Thanks for passing that along.

In other news, here’s the official press release on the final 25:

Braves Set 2011 Opening Day Roster
Club set to open campaign at Washington tomorrow

ATLANTA – The Atlanta Braves today officially set their 25-man roster for opening day. Also, as part of an agreement with former pitcher Billy Wagner, the Braves today officially released Wagner in lieu of his placement on the Voluntary Retired List. In addition, outfielder Joe Mather cleared waivers and was sent outright to Gwinnett (AAA).
The Braves open the 2011 campaign – their 46th in Atlanta – tomorrow (Thursday, March 31) at the Washington Nationals (1:05 p.m. ET, SportSouth).

The season-opening roster includes 12 pitchers, two catchers, seven infielders and four outfielders:
PITCHERS (12): Brandon Beachy (RH), Tommy Hanson (RH), Tim Hudson (RH), Jair Jurrjens (RH),
Craig Kimbrel (RH), Scott Linebrink (RH), Derek Lowe (RH), Cristhian Martinez (RH),
Peter Moylan (RH), Eric O’Flaherty (LH), George Sherrill (LH) and Jonny Venters (LH)
CATCHERS (2): Brian McCann and David Ross
INFIELDERS (7): Brooks Conrad, Freddie Freeman, Alex Gonzalez, Brandon Hicks, Eric Hinske,
Chipper Jones and Dan Uggla
OUTFIELDERS (4): Jason Heyward, Nate McLouth, Martin Prado and Matt Young
47
Curt Says:
March 30th, 2011 at 4:57 pm
New SI – Braves NOT making playoffs. Phils, Giants, Reds, Rockies from NL.

They do have ap retty funny line from their “Opposing scout’s take” on the Braves: “Uggla is a big, righthanded home run bat. When it comes to his defense at second, he’s a big, righthanded home run bat.”

I know it is a repeat of some other lines, but funny nonetheless.
48
Walker Says:
March 30th, 2011 at 5:12 pm
Braves win 97 games.
Chipper hits 21 homers.
McClouth in his free agent year hits .282 24 homers 77 RBIs.
Freeman hits 18 homers.
Hanson dominates and wins 21 games.
By July Kimbrel gets closer job and ends up with 28 saves. Venters gets 14 saves.

NL East- Braves
NL Central- Reds ( Originally had Brewers but they are without Grienke and Marcum for April)
NL West- Giants
NL Wild Card- Phillies

AL East- Red Sox
AL Central- White Sox
AL West- Rangers
AL Wild Card- Yankees

WORLD SERIES

BRAVES OVER WHITE SOX in 5 games. GO BRAVES!!!!!
49
Walker Says:
March 30th, 2011 at 5:24 pm
BIG Shout out to Jerry Crasnick.

Did anybody see that idiot from espn who picked the Astros to win the central? LOL
50
Leah Says:
March 30th, 2011 at 7:17 pm
Wins- 97 WAHOOOO!
Chipper homers – 14 (I’m afraid he’s going to break mid season)
McLouth BA – .290 (homer…right here folks)
Freeman homers – 19 (again…homer)
Pitcher with most wins – Hudson
Most saves – Venters

AL East – Red Sox
AL Central – Twins
AL West – Rangers
AL wildcard – Yanks (although it pains me)

NL East – Braves
NL Central –Brew Crew
NL West – Rockies
NL wildcard – Phillies
51
QC Bravo Says:
March 30th, 2011 at 9:28 pm
Is anyone scared that seemingly 40% of the ESPN “experts” had the Braves winning the pennant? That is terrifying.

And my daughter won’t let me have dessert until I admit I like the Phillies. Luckily, I’m not a dessert guy. Either way, can’t wait for 1 pm tomorrow.
52
Wiley Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 5:40 am
I am too rather frightened that we are expected to be that good. Its unbelievable. As for 1pm, I really hope weather doesn’t ruin things, because it definitely might. Forecast not good for DC this afternoon.
53
Nate Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 6:21 am
NL Cy Young: Roy Halladay
NL Roy: Freddie Freeman
NL MVP: Brian McCann
NL Manager: Fredi Gonzalez

AL Cy Young: Justin Verlander
AL Roy: Jeremy Hellickson
AL MVP: Adrian Gonzalez
AL Manager: Francona

McLouth: .252, 16 HR
Freeman: 14 HR
Chip: 18 HR, 130 games
Hanson: 18 wins
54
ham Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 6:31 am
Bring.

It.

On.

The road to 162 – 0 starts today!
55
Nate Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 6:32 am
The fact that Mike and Mike in the Morning picked us to miss the playoffs makes me think that we have an even better shot at a deep postseason run. They did call us the “sexy pick” this year.
56
Nate Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 6:36 am
AL MVP: I’m flip flopping to Miguel Cabrera.
57
Curt Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 6:44 am
Being the sexy pick makes me nervous. We see what happened with the Falcons. The one thing that makes the Braves different is that it isn’t a young, up-and-coming team. They are filled with veteran leaders who have seen it all, so hopefully they are able to avoid being caught up in any hype.

That said, why do we have to start with Livan Hernandez? Of all people. And why are the Braves on the road, seemingly, to begin every season now? I know we started at home last year, but it sure seems that we don’t start at home much anymore.

Go Braves
58
BRAVEinNY (Matt) Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 7:55 am
I’m looking at the media picks a lot different this year… You know what? It doesn’t mean a thing if someone picks the Braves to win the East, or they pick the Red Sox to win the World Series. I honestly don’t think it changes one thing- what’s going to happen on the field, will happen on the field…

….But it sure is fun to talk about!
59
Eric Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 9:19 am
Does it really matter if we start at home or on the road?
60
Curt Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 10:29 am
Yes
61
Leah Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 10:56 am
#60 Curt, you shouldn’t drag things out. Show us how you really feel.
62
Eric Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 12:01 pm
Just for fun:

http://news.blogs.cnn.com/2011/03/31/gotta-watch-presidential-first-pitches-remembering-selena/?hpt=C2
63
ham Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 1:43 pm
The move to O’Flaherty seems a little premature. DLowe was looking good.
64
Curt Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 1:50 pm
105 pitches
65
Anonymous Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 2:46 pm
Braves win. Solid game. Couldn’t have gone any better.
66
ham Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 2:48 pm
I agree, Anonymous (if that really is your name). Perfect start to the season. Can’t believe we have to wait til Saturday for more baseball. Still . . . .

GO BRAVES!!!
67
Curt Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 2:59 pm
Good stuff
68
Anne Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 3:01 pm
We’re #1…We’re #1…and a well-deserved day off tomorrow. Go Braves!!
69
Steve Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 3:19 pm
Great win. I’ll take Chipper, Mac and Heyward carrying the offense for a while. And let’s pause for Chipper a moment. CHIPPER! I know it’s only one regular season game, but the man looks like he really, really truly for real could be back to old form.

What a pleasure. Real baseball. Winning baseball. C’mon Saturday, get here.
70
Eric Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 3:34 pm
Good win – even if it was on the road.
71
Curt Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 4:38 pm
Don’t hate it because you don’t understand, Eric.
72
Leah Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 5:06 pm
My favorite part is Heyward’s homer. J-Hey returns!
73
Nate Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 5:11 pm
When’s the last time a player started consecutive seasons with a homer? Was J-Hey the first to do it?

#72, I agree completely, Leah. Here’s to hoping J-Hey can have a strong, healthy year.
74
BluesMan Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 5:17 pm
Wow guys,
Our Bravos looked great today…I’m very encouraged by what I saw out of Chipper, & Heyward; as well as the pitching staff. I can’t wait to be at the TED next weekend to see us open the year at home against the Philthies…

GO BRAVES!!!!
75
BluesMan Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 5:17 pm
Great shows by the way guys! I know I haven’t been around a whole lot commenting.
76
Leah Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 6:28 pm
Where’d Melky Cabrera’s gut go? Dude is tiny!
77
Leah Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 6:30 pm
Nate, he’s the second. Ichiro was first. Not bad…

Welcome back Bluesman!
78
Leah Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 6:41 pm
Atleast that’s what I think Don Sutton may have said today unless I heard wrong or dozed off and dreamed it up.
79
Leah Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 6:42 pm
I just wanted four comments in a row. Three just wasn’t enough.
80
QC Bravo Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 7:00 pm
I think it wasn’t Ichiro – I think it was Kaz Matsui who had HRs on his first 2 opening days. And this wasn’t to start his career, but I believe Granderson had his 3rd Opening Day HR today.

And Ham (if that is YOUR real name), I agree — would have liked to see Lowe at least finish the inning.
81
QC Bravo Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 7:01 pm
Here is a really, really insightful analysis of Heyward’s power on Opening Day

http://www.sbnation.com/2011/3/31/2083150/jason-heyward-home-run-braves-vs-nationals.
82
Leah Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 7:44 pm
Yeah…that’s who I meant.
83
Curt Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 8:04 pm
They said today that Heyward was the 2nd player in MLB history to homer in his first at bat as a rookie, and in his first at bat in his second season. The other was Kaz Matsui. Just to clear all of that stuff up.
84
Wiley Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 8:25 pm
I know Heyward and Lowe were the big stories. But to be honest, I loved seeing Kimbrel be relatively boring, in a good way. 1 2 3 and with great stuff. I never feel good about 1st year closers, much less a 22 year old 1st year closer, but seeing Kimbrel work quickly and efficiently made me feel a bit better.
85
Leah Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 8:32 pm
Curt, are you saying my comment was less than clear? I’m shocked and offended!
86
Leah Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 8:35 pm
Hah…the Rev just asked me what was happening with Strasburg.
87
Wiley Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 8:38 pm
Btw Curt (I think it was you who asked): We have opened at home twice in the past 7 seasons (2007 and 2010). So yeah that makes me mad and I know exactly what you mean.
88
Walker Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 10:01 pm
I and responsible for the epic #65 comment. Forgot to put my name in.
89
Curt Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 10:14 pm
Leah, yes
90
Steve Says:
March 31st, 2011 at 10:15 pm
BluesMan – good to hear from you.

I’m basking in the win today. I feel amazingly good about the back-end of the bullpen, too. Obviously, I’m scared about the inevitable Sherrill (and to a lesser degree, Linebrink) appearance, but wow do Venters and Kimbrel look good.
91
Leah Says:
April 1st, 2011 at 10:09 am
Total let down not having Braves baseball today. How will I survive!
92
Steve Says:
April 1st, 2011 at 10:36 am
Leah – u coming to Turner Field next weekend for the Avett Bros concert? I just bought my ticket.
93
Curt Says:
April 1st, 2011 at 10:42 am
Should be noted that Matsui’s homer in season 3 opener was an inside-the-parker.
94
Steve Says:
April 1st, 2011 at 10:52 am
Curt #93 – Nice info.
95
Curt Says:
April 1st, 2011 at 10:59 am
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/writers/tom_verducci/04/01/werth.nationals/index.html?xid=siextra_040111
96
Leah Says:
April 1st, 2011 at 12:04 pm
Steve, I’m MAD with envy. I’ll be seeing them saturday night in Charlotte but time and $ don’t allow for the trip down. I hope Scott Avett’s voice holds out. He has difficulties singing two days in a row sometimes. Have fun and take Curt’s wife since he’s such a grumpy pants and won’t take her himself.
97
Curt Says:
April 1st, 2011 at 1:14 pm
Leah, unfortunately for her, she will be at the beach with me next week. I did make her a fan though. Does that count for something? Have you gotten into Mumford and Sons?
98
Leah Says:
April 1st, 2011 at 1:35 pm
I like Mumford and sons. It counts for something…a little something. Gotta see’em live…just sayin.
99
Leah Says:
April 1st, 2011 at 2:06 pm
Bummer for Cards and “slappies”. Matt Holliday=emergency appendectomy.
100
ham Says:
April 1st, 2011 at 3:13 pm
Thanks for nothing, ‘Stros.
101
Curt Says:
April 1st, 2011 at 3:14 pm
Good lord that was terrible. Guess those 93% who picked the Phils were on to something.
102
Leah Says:
April 1st, 2011 at 10:24 pm
I expected the Phillies to win but not quite in that fashion.
103
Matt Says:
April 1st, 2011 at 11:20 pm
Braves sign Barry Bonds to Minor League Deal pending trial outcome. He could start Opening Day 2015!!! Well little late, April Fool’s!!!!
104
Leah Says:
April 2nd, 2011 at 9:22 am
Can someone tell me why I scheduled my 10 year old’s birthday party from 2-4 without checking the Braves schedule?
#Braves lineup: 1. Prado LF, 2. McLouth CF, 3. Jones, 3B, 4. McCann C, 5. Uggla 2B, 6. Heyward RF, 7. Gonzalez SS, 8. Freeman 1B, 9. Hanson

Looks like it’s going to be a miserable day in DC weather wise. Not liking the sound of JJ being DL’d. Feels like last year.

Go Braves!
105
brandon Says:
April 2nd, 2011 at 9:49 am
Headed to the game right now can’t wait. Praying for good weather. Go BRAVES!
106
Walker Says:
April 2nd, 2011 at 4:33 pm
You win 60, you lose 60. It what you do with the other 42 games that affect how the season goes. This just was not a game we were going to win.

Side note: Its a little sad that Heyward will miss at least one at bat per game and we are giving McLouth one extra at bat. Hard to make sense of it.
107
Curt Says:
April 2nd, 2011 at 6:53 pm
Walker, agreed. Good to see it’s two games in and we are already wondering about mclouth
108
Steve Says:
April 2nd, 2011 at 9:55 pm
What’s with all the “His name is Dan Uggla” stuff on DOB’s blog? Even DOB did it. I clearly missed something.
109
Leah Says:
April 2nd, 2011 at 10:23 pm
Steve, let me enlighten you. For years in FL, everytime Danny hit a homer the FL broadcasters would say, “His name is Daaaaaaaan Uggla.”
110
Nate Says:
April 2nd, 2011 at 10:28 pm
What amazes me most about Ankiel is that we didn’t K him once today? Can we not research the 2 months of footage we have of him in a Braves’ uniform to figure out how to accomplish this?

Walker, I agree with your thoughts on McL(out)th. I’m guessing the coaches are wanting to see if he gets a better pitch selection to choose from hitting where he is now in the order. That said, I would much rather see Heyward bat in the 2 hole.

Leah, the JJ thing does feel like last year. He was labeled as injury prone when we got him in that trade for Renteria…
111
Nate Says:
April 2nd, 2011 at 10:31 pm
I met a couple from Columbia, TN today that are good friends with the Uggla family. They had nothing but great things to say about “Danny”. I’m even more excited that he’s a Brave after talking to them. Apparently Danny is a very nice young man with an unmatchable work ethic. (Sounds like another Prado)
112
Steve Says:
April 2nd, 2011 at 10:45 pm
Leah – thank you for the explanation. Don’t know how I never heard that before … Consider me enlightened.

Nate – great stuff on Uggla. We need some more inspiring stories like that after today’s uninspired result.
113
Nate Says:
April 3rd, 2011 at 9:30 am
I would say the Phils definitely had a 93% chance (at least) in the Wandy Rodriguez/Cliff Lee match up. Hey, at least they got some runs off Lee and Halladay.

On the Braves side of things, this is the first shot at a Sunday lineup for Fredi. I hope he doesn’t go full-Bobby and at least leaves some of our offense in the lineup. Resist the urge to start all of our bench, Fredi, resist it. I would love to see us start the season with a series win. I also wouldn’t mind seeing Chip get the first of his 30-40 days off. Maybe start Hinske in LF. Let Prado do some 3B. Bat Heyward 3 and let Hinske bat 6th.
114
Nate Says:
April 3rd, 2011 at 9:34 am
Is Kimbrel eligible for ROY? If so he might have a better shot at it than Freeman just from a numbers standpoint. Feliz got it last year for the Rangers. Kimbrel should have a good shot at it if he can stay consistent.
115
Adam Says:
April 3rd, 2011 at 10:45 am
Is there any chance Fredi would move Nate to 8th and bump everybody else up a spot? I think Chipper would be a good #2 hitter since he’s lost his home run hitting power but can still hit for average.

And Mclouth can’t really do anything.
116
Leah Says:
April 3rd, 2011 at 1:17 pm
Let’s talk Fantasy Baseball!
117
Steve Says:
April 3rd, 2011 at 1:55 pm
Hey Adam – there is no chance that everyone gets moved up a spot because is not moving from the 3 hole. As long as he’s playing, that’s his spot. Now, what would make much sense is to move Nate down to 7 or 8 and put Heyward at 2, but that’s not happening anytime soon, I’m afraid.

Leah – what do you want to talk about? I haven’t noticed anything special about the league this week…
118
Walker Says:
April 3rd, 2011 at 1:56 pm
Does anybody play Beat The Streak on MLB.com? If you beat Dimaggio’s 56 game hitting streak you win 5 million dollars.
119
Walker Says:
April 3rd, 2011 at 2:11 pm
This is the lineup that can maximize this teams potential:

Prado
Heyward
Chipper
McCann
Uggla
Freeman
Gonzalez
McLouth
120
Leah Says:
April 3rd, 2011 at 3:28 pm
Steve, I gotta talk smack now cause I have no doubt I’ll be bringing up the rear in no time. Lots of people making lots of moves…makes me feel clueless.

Winner winner…
121
Steve Says:
April 3rd, 2011 at 3:31 pm
Walker, I’d go:

Prado
Heyward
Chipper
Uggla
McCann
Gonzalez
McLouth
Freeman
122
atlantafanatic Says:
April 3rd, 2011 at 9:29 pm
I’m with Walker. Let McCann bat 4th against righties, Uggla 4th against lefties. As for 6-8 I’m not sure if theres a good combo, but Walker has left right left.
123
Leah Says:
April 4th, 2011 at 3:25 pm
I got mad love for Prado!!! I like how Fredi pinch hit with B. Mac. I don’t totally get leaving him in but I’d much rather see humbug than Brooks an company. Btw…who is this Peter Moylan?
124
Leah Says:
April 4th, 2011 at 3:28 pm
HIS NAME IS DAAAAN UGGLA! See what I did there Steve?
125
how to sell a condo Says:
May 22nd, 2011 at 1:18 pm
This is a very useful article. I read it and found it inspiring.

Show #140: The Braves 2011 Campaign Set to Begin

125 Responses to “Show #140: The Braves 2011 Campaign Set to Begin”

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