Show #145: Rough Week On and Off the Field

May 02, 2011

Show #145: Rough Week On and Off the Field

McDowell’s Rant. Lowe’s DUI. The Bullpen’s Letdown. Ham’s Lousy Connection.

Show #145 Play Now | Play in Popup | Download

134 Responses to “Show #145: Rough Week On and Off the Field”

1
Jo-Bu Says:
May 2nd, 2011 at 12:36 am
UBL is dead and the Braves won today. What more could an Atlantan wish for? A great day in America!
2
Walker Says:
May 2nd, 2011 at 12:44 am
Ageed Jo-Bu

Congrats to President Obama. Republicans have no chance now.

Great comeback for the braves. Will listen to podcast later.
3
Jo-Bu Says:
May 2nd, 2011 at 1:36 am
I think most everyone was fooled by the Cards this weekend. I didn’t have us sweeping them but I had us winning the series or at least thinking we could beat up on their bullpen. They are a hot team right now but you know what, it seems that the Braves are the remedy for any team that is struggling and it seems we’ve been running into a “hot” team every series this early season.

McDowell should be fired and the only thing that he and the Braves (I’m sorry to observe) is that they are sorry that this stuff got out and the PR mess they are in. Do the right thing and fire this jerk and “restore” the class this organ-eye-zation has built over the decades. Of course the Braves are still going to be regarded as a very class organization but from my perspective, they lost a few Jo-Bu points by not doing the right thing and firing him.

Yes, UBL is dead.

Being that the 2011 Braves appear to be a streaky team, I have no idea how to predict this week. I mean, just what kind of team are the Brew Crew this season? They’re kinda like the Braves themselves so I say we take two from them and only take 1 from the Phils.
4
Jo-Bu Says:
May 2nd, 2011 at 1:43 am
#2: Yeah, I thought Barry-O was having an “AlGore” moment on TV with the whole Leon Panetta thing he spoke about when he took office — opportunisticas usual but at least he had the balls to give the order unlinke Clinton whom preferred stand-off action by lobbing tomahawk missles from 500 miles away.

Now, back to baseball — I hate poly-ticks.
5
Leah Says:
May 2nd, 2011 at 10:34 am
Nice job guys. Don’t feel bad Curt, questions are hard to read. I agree with almost everything you said. While McDowell’s comments and actions are repulsive I find Chipper’s less politically incorrect improprieties from years ago even more so. Either way, Lowe’s an idiot and as much as I like to win I’d rather the Braves organization take a firm stand.

I hope we play .500 baseball this week…I doubt it though.

USA, USA, USA…
6
Curt Says:
May 2nd, 2011 at 11:22 am
Stumbling, bumbling.
7
Leah Says:
May 2nd, 2011 at 2:26 pm
I hear ya…
8
Curt Says:
May 2nd, 2011 at 3:10 pm
Interesting slide show in the AJC looking back on the run ins the Braves have had with the law, or with common decency, going back to Otis Nixon and his cocaine suspension. One I had totally forgotten about was Bobby Cox and his spousal abuse charges.
9
john vano Says:
May 2nd, 2011 at 3:22 pm
Two things I thought of as you discussed McDowell and Lowe.

1) Wasn’t McDowell “the spitter” in the Zapruder film Jerry Seinfeld episode. Clearly the guy had some issues with being inappropriately demonstrative way back then. haha

2) As you described Lowe racing down Peachtree/”why didn’t he take a cab” the connection to Margaret Mitchell formed in my head. She was struck down by a wayward cab on Peachtree Street back in the day.
10
DAP Says:
May 2nd, 2011 at 3:28 pm
Wow, I’m surprised y’all have taken the accuser’s word on everything McDowell did.

I’ll say I haven’t ever heard anything but good things about McDowell, and I think he only did 1 thing wrong, and that would be the “lewd act” with the baseball bat. The initial response to the hecklers can’t really be described as “homophobic”, and I don’t believe the threat of violence even happened.

I think McDowell did some stuff he shouldn’t have done, got busted, and also got falsely accused of a few things. My opinion only, based on what I have heard from the situation. And, I think the punishment backs up what I think. If McDowell really physically threatened a fan, of course he would have been fired.
11
Curt Says:
May 2nd, 2011 at 3:59 pm
DAP, the SF Chronicle interviewed some people who backed up the story of the accuser. Also, if he is innocent, why did he apologize? Why wouldn’t he have vigorously defended himself, as he has every right to do? If I were innocent, that’s what I would have done.

And “Are you a homo couple or a threesome?” doesn’t sound homophobic to you?
12
DAP Says:
May 2nd, 2011 at 4:02 pm
Uggla may be starting to snap out of it. He has raised his OPS by 56 points in the last 7 games, along with 4 runs, 4 walks, a HR, 2 doubles, and 7 hits. Its not dramatic, but he’s moving in the right direction!
13
ham Says:
May 2nd, 2011 at 4:03 pm
Not to mention him pantomiming putting his bat in his butt and saying “isn’t that how y’all like it out here?” Strikes me as slightly homophobic.

Still, I agree with Curt. The more egregious stuff was the threatening of the dude in front of his kids. I can’t say I think he should have hired a lawyer (especially Allred), but he should know better and act better.
14
ham Says:
May 2nd, 2011 at 4:04 pm
the first he is the guy who hired the lawyer, the second dude is McDowell.

I too hate pronouns.
15
DAP Says:
May 2nd, 2011 at 4:05 pm
curt ["if he is innocent, why did he apologize?"]

notice his carefully worded apology, for “responding to hecklers”, not for “threatening a fan”.

["And “Are you a homo couple or a threesome?” doesn’t sound homophobic to you?"]

nope.
16
DAP Says:
May 2nd, 2011 at 4:22 pm
I’m also going 4-3 for the braves this week, including winning 2 from philly. Braves are taking Lowe, Jurrjens, and Hanson into CBP, against a team that has been struggling to score runs. Uggla puts on a show.
17
Nate Says:
May 2nd, 2011 at 5:45 pm
We get Gallardo tonight. Sweet.
18
Nate Says:
May 2nd, 2011 at 8:06 pm
Oh, Nate…
19
Nate Says:
May 2nd, 2011 at 8:49 pm
Taking advantage of gifts. Awesome.
20
ham Says:
May 2nd, 2011 at 10:58 pm
Great win tonight. Thank you, JJ.
21
Danny Says:
May 3rd, 2011 at 6:25 am
Loving Jason’s Sportcenter commercial:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l4C4kNt2flM
22
Anne Says:
May 3rd, 2011 at 10:10 am
Really? My first trip to The Ted this season and it’s gonna rain tonight? NOT fair.
23
David Says:
May 3rd, 2011 at 12:30 pm
Just listened to this week’s podcast. I thought that you guys did a great job not only giving McDowell and Lowe their due, but also holding the Braves themselves accountable. It seems that they’re being a bit sheepish on both counts. I wouldn’t have been surprised if McDowell had been fired, and I hope that he’s at least on a very short leash from this point forward. Whichever one of you said that the Braves should’ve added on two weeks is right.

And D-Loaded. Ugh. I wish that, at the very least, the Braves had skipped his start and had said it’s so that he can reflect on his decisions or whatever. If they had won one of the first two games in the series, perhaps they would have. And y’all raise very interesting points about alcohol and sports, especially the lack of a precedent for DUI for MLB players.

Uggla’s already showing signs of breaking out of his slump, so I’ll go with yes — now that April’s over, he’ll hit closer to his normal self and finish May with a season totals of the average of somewhere around .260 and 9 homers.
24
Nate Says:
May 3rd, 2011 at 3:15 pm
Just read the latest from Talking Chop. The Braves have the lowest stolen base rate in 30 years. They’ve stolen 5 bases and been caught 10 times. No Brave has more than 1 stolen base. They’ve played 30 games.
25
Anonymous Says:
May 3rd, 2011 at 6:56 pm
Gonna have us a game. My buddy Alan says they only anticipate 11,000. Yawn.
26
Anne Says:
May 3rd, 2011 at 6:57 pm
I’m not really Anonymous. Go Braves!
27
Anne Says:
May 3rd, 2011 at 7:09 pm
Tarp on again.
28
Curt Says:
May 3rd, 2011 at 8:58 pm
Anne, think you might be SOL. Stay safe.
29
Walker Says:
May 3rd, 2011 at 9:02 pm
@ Nate

There have been numerous times when McLouth has been on base and should have been put in motion but Fredi doesn’t do anything. We may not have blazers on our team but McLouth, Heyward, Uggla, Chipper, A gon, and Prado have average to above average speed. Putting runners in motion makes things happen.
30
Vinnie Says:
May 3rd, 2011 at 9:30 pm
Anne – did you get your old ticket location back again? Sorry about the rainout.
31
Aussie Kenman Says:
May 3rd, 2011 at 11:20 pm
Thanks for the show guys!

I echo your comments o the Braves’ response to McDowell.

Derek Lowe has a drinking problem and has had one for years. This is why he wasn’t re-signed in Boston and why the Mets wouldn’t sign him. The drinking included nights before starts, so, you know, enjoy that. Wonder if you avoided that discussion on purpose or not?
32
ham Says:
May 4th, 2011 at 8:59 am
Aussie Kenman!! Nice to hear from you. We missed a big opportunity to discuss D-Loaded’s drinking problems – although it would have probably made for a 90 minute show.
33
Curt Says:
May 4th, 2011 at 9:11 am
I think we did touch on some of his issues, such as leaving his wife for the sportscaster out in LA. It’s clear he has some judgement problems.
34
Anne Says:
May 4th, 2011 at 10:15 am
Vinnie – yes, if I could go to the 4:10pm game today…which I can’t. But that’s why starving college students hover around my desk – for gifts such as these.

Finished listening to the podcast this morning. Has anyone made a Ham Radio joke for young Hamilton’s crummy connection?
35
Nate Says:
May 4th, 2011 at 10:25 am
#29, Walker, I have felt the same way about McLouth, Uggla, Heyward, Prado, and Gonzo. They all seem like guys who should be able to swipe 20/yr, and hopefully Heyward and McLouth can do a little better than 20/yr with their speed. I definitely thought we world see more hit and runs and SB attempts under Fredi. Our 33% success rate on SBs is sad. Are we just picking bad spots? Getting bad jumps? Idk….
36
Nate Says:
May 4th, 2011 at 10:28 am
#31, good points on D-Lowe. There was a game last year where one of his teammates from Boston was calling the game for FOX, and they were talking about how D-Lowe has been a mentor for the young Braves pitchers and the former teammate’s reaction was essentially uh-oh. I think the former teammate was Kevin Millar.
37
ham Says:
May 4th, 2011 at 12:57 pm
From the files of “Let’s maybe not forget that these guys are just baseball players and not members of Mensa. . . ”

http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/05/04/luke-scott-on-obamas-birth-certificate-anybody-can-produce-a-document
38
Curt Says:
May 4th, 2011 at 1:32 pm
Lowe, sadly, isn’t alone in his mistake or his lack of punishment.

http://danny-knobler.blogs.cbssports.com/mcc/blogs/entry/8590096/29028554
39
ham Says:
May 4th, 2011 at 2:14 pm
re #38

“and that the potential cost to his reputation is a lot more than the price of that cab ride”

Sadly, I don’t think there really is a cost to their reputation. And I really don’t see any changes coming to the Basic Agreement in the off-season that will change anything.
40
ham Says:
May 4th, 2011 at 4:18 pm
Good first inning for Tommy. 11 pitches total, 2 Ks.
41
Ron Says:
May 4th, 2011 at 5:51 pm
Things are looking up. Uggla over .200 And Freddie Freeout has a hit today.
42
Turley Says:
May 4th, 2011 at 8:08 pm
Hey one game down…lets take the double-header sweep! We need a solid outing again
43
Ron Says:
May 4th, 2011 at 8:26 pm
Time to move McLouth up a notch. Freddie the Freeloader should be batting 8th.
44
Turley Says:
May 4th, 2011 at 8:29 pm
Uggla needs a good night…or maybe a couple of good nights….
45
Turley Says:
May 4th, 2011 at 8:37 pm
If Moylan is done for the year because of his back surgery…what do you think we do…do we try to rely on our younger pitchers in AAA…do we re-call Proctor and pray for help….Our do we part ways with some Veterans not getting it done and look for help elsewhere…? What’s your thoughts?
46
Ron Says:
May 4th, 2011 at 10:00 pm
The pen is fine with or without Moylan. However, more to worry about are the Bats of Weyward and Freeout. Maybe these two roommates should trade bats before one of them is back in the minors.
47
Curt Says:
May 4th, 2011 at 10:36 pm
No way they make a move to pick up pen help. Too many guys at AAA. Marek is waiting.
48
ham Says:
May 4th, 2011 at 10:43 pm
My goodness Hudson is looking good. I know Liranio went no-no last night, but Hudson is looking infinitely better.

What a day!
49
Curt Says:
May 4th, 2011 at 10:46 pm
I take it back. Marek went on the DL today with elbow inflammation.
50
Anonymous Says:
May 4th, 2011 at 10:46 pm
Great day for the Braves. Let’s celebrate with a drink; Lowe is buying.
51
Ron Says:
May 4th, 2011 at 10:48 pm
Lot’s of pitchers doing very well in AAA. No trades needed for bullpen. If anything, Braves will be trading pitching for stronger bench.
52
Ronisannoying Says:
May 4th, 2011 at 10:57 pm
Hey Ron, go troll somewhere else.
53
Pure Says:
May 5th, 2011 at 1:04 am
From ESPN: How Tim Hudson Won.

• Hudson started 26 of 29 Brewers hitters with a first-pitch strike, the highest percentage by a starter this season. Overall, Hudson threw strikes on 74 of 102 pitches, his highest percentage in the last three seasons.

• After starting hitters with strikes, Hudson did not allow them to battle back. Just eight of his 102 pitches came when he was behind in the count. Hudson’s previous low over the last three years was 13.

• Hudson forced the Brewers to hit the ball on the ground. The Brewers grounded out 15 times against Hudson and hit the ball in the air just seven times. The Brewers hit just five balls out of the infield and only one after the fifth inning
54
Eric Says:
May 5th, 2011 at 7:57 am
Ron, if you want to complain about free outs, Prado, Gonzalez, and Uggla should be your targets. Freddie Freeman has an on base percentage of .328, which is, respectively, 30, 40, and 55 points higher than those three guys.

Jason Heyward has an OPS of .828 – good for second best on the team behind only David Ross.
55
Nate Says:
May 5th, 2011 at 10:24 am
Not to mention how many plays Freeman has made at first that have gotten big outs and probably saved a throwing error. He’s a special player. His hitting will come around.
56
brandon Says:
May 5th, 2011 at 10:34 am
Hey guys, our bullpen is fine we have youth in our bullpen. With that will come rough outings at times. Just as long as we have more good ones than bad. It’s called experience and we have to have those. I like Guerrin I believe he can handle Moylan’s role just fine. We’ve just been having trouble trying to redefine our roles. With moylan they were set now they’re not. As far as the bench production is picking up nicely.
My concern and I don’t know if anyone else has picked up on this too. Is have yall noticed but the last couple of head first slides by heyward he’s been grimacing and showing discomfort in his hand again.
57
Steve Says:
May 5th, 2011 at 11:05 am
Back to the Heyward and Freeman bashing … Not to mention that the team is freaking hitting and scoring runs. And winning. Everyone’s not going to go 2 – 4 every game and have BA’s over .300 all year. The offense has made huge strides the last couple of weeks.
58
Curt Says:
May 5th, 2011 at 11:53 am
Brandon, interesting you should mention that. He slid head first into home a couple of games back on a play where there was not even a throw, and all I could think about was that it’s probably best not to do that when you don’t even need to. I thought they were trying to get them to not slide head first at any time. Maybe that’s why they never steal any bases. Fear of the slide.
59
brandon Says:
May 5th, 2011 at 12:18 pm
Maybe Curt I’m just worried its affecting his swing again.
60
Jack Says:
May 5th, 2011 at 12:36 pm
Why are their losers on this site showing no name like #50 or a made up name like#52. Folks that can’t deal with other opinions should shut up themselves. Looks like this site has 4 or 5 regulars and a couple of them only want to hear themselves talk. Pay to join a real site.
61
Jack Says:
May 5th, 2011 at 12:38 pm
Pure, nice recap of the things that were said on the radio.
62
Ron Says:
May 5th, 2011 at 1:05 pm
Eric and Nate, are you one in the same? Freeman belongs in 7 batting position. Too much pressure for a rookie. He seems to pad his stats when game is NOT on the line. Look what taking the pressure off has done for McClouth. Eric, is baseball a new sport for you?
63
Eric Says:
May 5th, 2011 at 1:45 pm
I thought Freeman should be batting 8th, Ron? Move up McLouth, right?

Jason Heyward batted in the 2 and 6 spot last year as a rookie. Buster Posey hit clean-up as a rookie. Ike Davis hit 6 as a rookie. Kimbrel and Beachy are rookies. Venters was our set-up man as a rookie. Just because a guy is young doesn’t mean he can’t contribute – even in big spots.

If you think Freeman is padding his stats in low pressure situations, give me some numbers. I notice you conveniently ignored the numbers I provided. If you want to stick with cliche and one-liners that’s fine with me, but anyone reading can tell that critical thinking is a new for you.
64
Steve Says:
May 5th, 2011 at 2:41 pm
Jack – you’re a real charmer. Thanks for stopping by. Run along now.
65
Walker Says:
May 5th, 2011 at 3:12 pm
Please leave McLouth in the 8th spot. Don’t mess with good thing right now.
66
Leah Says:
May 5th, 2011 at 4:09 pm
#64. Ditto.
67
Ron Says:
May 5th, 2011 at 4:51 pm
Eric, Does someone really have Freeman mixed up with Posey? Do you want stats?

Eric, Prado, Gonzo, and Uggla have MLB experience and history: rookies only bat in the middle of the lineup if they are extraordinary. Rarely, when they bat .225. Someone can find stats to make anyone look good. By the way, Freeman is 6 for his last 40 at bats/.150 (last 10 games). Add in his walks and you have a .250 OBP. WOW!!! If you were managing the team, where would you have him batting? I seriously don’t think you know much about baseball.

I am not giving up on Freeman but he would bat near the bottom and I would have a contingency plan. You may not know it, but most rookies are not that successful. But if you keep reading your stats and following baseball, you will catch on some day.

Eric, do the stats; you seem to like them. How many rookies enter the MLB every year and how many compare to Posey? You may need to be reminded that Posey did not play the whole year.

Thanks for the laugh. LOL
68
Ron Says:
May 5th, 2011 at 5:08 pm
Forgot to mention. We are comparing rookie years. Posey isn’t exacty ripping it up this year either. Once again it is proven, it takes time to find the real stars.
69
Pure Says:
May 5th, 2011 at 5:32 pm
I’m feeling good about our chances this year. So much so that I intend to start saving up for a trip to Atlanta later this year. The dream scenario is that I can run in the Atlanta Marathon on October 30 and watch a Braves World Series home game that weekend. Hopefully all the pieces will fall into place.
70
Steve Says:
May 5th, 2011 at 6:05 pm
Pure – I love it!
71
Danny Says:
May 5th, 2011 at 9:54 pm
Good to hear, Pure!

Is it too late to change my predictions for the week? Feeling pretty good about this team. I know we are still fighting for +500, but our youth is really looking strong, despite a few lapses into being human. I don’t know where all this negativity comes from! All good teams are good because they make a few adjustments through the regular season. I don’t think we are going to have to make the huge moves I was expecting during ST. In other words, I am optimistic.

I read and listen to hear the opinions of others, but its hard to take you seriously when you talk about this team like its 0-30!
72
Danny Says:
May 5th, 2011 at 9:55 pm
Note: the last comment was not directed to all!
73
Curt Says:
May 5th, 2011 at 10:56 pm
Danny, they look good right now, no doubt. The starting pitching has just been unbelieveable. These last starts of the 2-5 starters were something to behold. The offense is still finding their way, but it’s hard not to be excited after a 4-game sweep of the Brewers, who are a pretty good team themselves. Let’s see if we can carry some momentum on to Philly. Love to take 2 of 3.
74
Nate Says:
May 5th, 2011 at 10:58 pm
#60 was special.
75
Nate Says:
May 5th, 2011 at 11:01 pm
The rational thought on this site is reaching DOBs comment section level. almost…
76
Nate Says:
May 5th, 2011 at 11:12 pm
Albert Pujols is hitting in the .230s. He is a first ballot HOFer. Every player can have a slow start. chill.
77
Nate Says:
May 5th, 2011 at 11:23 pm
#64, Steve, you, Curt, and Ham run a great site. I enjoy listening to and reading all of your opinions. I think I speak for 99% of your audience when I say keep it up and GO BRAVES! We just won the season series against a playoff contender (per the media)s that we started out 1-3 against. Our team is good. we’re talking about improving the bench and getting another arm for the bullpen. most teams have much bigger holes to fill.
78
Eric Says:
May 6th, 2011 at 12:38 am
Ron, most people consider the middle of the line up the 3-5 spots. Freeman hits 6-7. I would have him hitting 6-7.

Alex Gonzalez has a career OBP of less than .300. Based on A-gon’s career MLB experience and history, I would have Freddie Freeman hitting in front of Gonzalez. Since McLouth has hit well from the 8 spot, I would continue to bat him in that spot.
79
Steve Says:
May 6th, 2011 at 12:49 am
#77 – Thanks, Nate. Keep the rational thought coming. It will overpower the crazy.
80
ham Says:
May 6th, 2011 at 10:28 am
I appreciate the good dialogue. We started this podcast, because we love talking about the Braves (and we are closet attention hogs). We didn’t even have the comments board in mind way back then. It has been, for me, the best surprise of the whole endeavor – getting to participate in a great dialogue about the Braves with all y’all. We love the debate, we love the point/counter-point, we love it all. We don’t, however, like personal attacks, name-calling, or whatever. My hope is that as we continue to add more listeners and commenters, that we keep the conversation rich and mature.

As far as I’m concerned the only personal attacks I would like to see are mine and Steve’s on Curt during the show.

Alright, getting off my high horse. Need to go take a valium, because I am beginning to think that we can sweep the Phils this weekend.
81
Ron Says:
May 6th, 2011 at 11:02 am
Despite taking a lot of heat for questioning if Freeman is ready for prime time, I still think he will be an asset in the long run. Good to have Hinske as a backup. Could Prado handle some first? Oh, and sorry for getting PO’d at folks who don’t like a different opinion.

Anyone worried about Conrad? Can he overcome last year’s ending? Will he be getting some field time?
82
Curt Says:
May 6th, 2011 at 12:01 pm
http://www.onionsportsnetwork.com/articles/phillies-seasonticket-holder-stuck-with-goddamn-jo,20309/
83
Curt Says:
May 6th, 2011 at 3:21 pm
Ron, I don’t think questioning Freeman is off limits. I took heat for doing the same on the show a couple of weeks ago. I think responding to people who disagree with you by questioning their knowledge of baseball is probably where you lost some folks.

Trust me, I am often the voice of the contrarian. We all appreciate, as Ham noted, different views of opinion. That’s part of the beauty of it.

I’m probably not the one to answer the question about Conrad, because I would rather someone else be on the roster. I think his magic is gone. I understand he got a game winning hit the other day, good for him, but I think he has 2 hits this season? Maybe 3? You notice that even when some other guys are getting in the field, he is not. I hope at minimum it stays that way. he is a very popular guy amongst the team, but we don’t need a mascot. We need a guy who can contribute.
84
Ron Says:
May 6th, 2011 at 4:13 pm
Sorry that some of us don’t measure up to the “critical thinking” that Eric has. Eric, the genius, who couldn’t see the humor in referring to Freeman as Freeout or Freeloader (sure you are all too young to remember Freddie the Freeloader on the Jackie Gleason show). No humor equals no fun. So, have fun in listening to Eric compare Freeman’s start to Posey’s start. That in itself, shows a real knowledge of baseball and demonstrates “critical thinking” that an old guy like me will never be able to match. Hope all 20 of your participants enjoy; this clearly is an exclusive group.

One last thought, Bobby was exremely good at getting his bench players into games and getting some at bats so they were ready when he needed them. Fredi appears to have no confidence in Conrad and it does Hicks no good to ride the bench day after day. Braves have a great streak going but when they hit the bumps that come along during every season, there is not much to fall back on after Hinske and Ross. Hope they can find a couple of more good players somewhere. Most teams need 30-35 players to contribute sometime during the season.

Lastly, my biggest wish is that the Braves find new ownership. Liberty Media has Braves management on the ropes; do whatever you want but return the profits that are demanded. Nearly all of the Liberty Media management in Douglas County Colorado are Rockies fans. Go Braves!

Good to see Freeman get a day off; Getting on base so much can be really tiring for someone his age.
Over and Out.

PS: try welcoming new names and maybe everyone can get off to a good start.
85
Kate Says:
May 6th, 2011 at 4:27 pm
Braves announced Teheran will start Saturday against the Phillies.
86
BRAVEinNY (Matt) Says:
May 6th, 2011 at 4:38 pm
I just heard that Kate… I’m pretty jacked up about it!!!
87
Steve Says:
May 6th, 2011 at 5:16 pm
The Teheran news is amazingly exciting. And Hammy, I’m with you on the series this weekend. I’m getting really crazy in my head right now about it.
88
Curt Says:
May 6th, 2011 at 7:06 pm
You two. Get married already
89
Anonymous Says:
May 6th, 2011 at 8:41 pm
DEREK LOWE HAS A NO HITTER!! JINX!!
90
Leah Says:
May 6th, 2011 at 8:57 pm
I do not heart “anonymous”. Question: is a 1991 Chipper Jones baseball card his rookie card?
91
Leah Says:
May 6th, 2011 at 9:23 pm
Mark my words…one day EOF will be going through his normal prepitch routine and will vomit all over the mound. Cannot believe how far he sticks his fingers down his thoat.

Whatcha think about D. Lowe…pulled a hammy?
92
Adam Says:
May 6th, 2011 at 9:48 pm
It didn’t seem like a pulled hammy. He was running okay and he could throw pretty hard. Whenever Chipper pulls a hamstring he can barely walk.

I say he misses one start at most. Probably zero.
93
QC Bravo Says:
May 6th, 2011 at 9:51 pm
Now that is a baseball game that is fun to watch — DLowe injury notwithstanding. Fun team to watch.
94
Steve Says:
May 6th, 2011 at 9:55 pm
Curt – you’re right. My head just exploded.

EOF’s three strikeout performance in the 7th is officially my favorite moment of the season so far.
95
Leah Says:
May 6th, 2011 at 10:04 pm
Steve, I think this is my favorite game so far…I love silencing that crowd! I tried to post this a minute ago so sorry if it’s a duplicate.
96
Curt Says:
May 6th, 2011 at 10:36 pm
Thank goodness for the braves after the Marek/Moylan double shot and the Hawks embarrassment
97
Pure Says:
May 7th, 2011 at 5:18 am
What do you all think about the D-Lowe trade talks? (tomahawktalk.com and jon jeyman/si.com). It feels odd to talk about this now given that he just pitched 6 innings of no-hit ball… but then again, it might be the best time to consider it because he’ll have a high trade value. But do we really want to shake things up when we’re on a hot streak?
98
Jo-Bu Says:
May 7th, 2011 at 9:15 am
80,83:

I agree with Hammy and Curt. One of the reasons I started commenting here is due to the classy nature of the individuals who post. Unlike that uncivil free-for-all blog on the AJC.

As far as knowledge of baseball is concerened, no one on here owns ANY superiority in that department. If they did, they’d be in the game of [professional] baseball and be a helluva lot more humble about thier own opinions and not out here commenting about it. Anyone who’s watched this game (or played it as I and many others have) know that it will humble at exactly the moment you think you’ve got it figured out.
99
Jo-Bu Says:
May 7th, 2011 at 9:25 am
After the series with the Cards I really thought the Braves were going to get stomped this week — I had them winning 1 or 2 from the Brew Crew and only 1 from the Phillies. As it is turning out, we 4-game-swept the Brewers and out-pitched Lee (despite his 16K effort) in the first game of this three-game stand with the Phillies. What a difference a walk-off win can make (last game vs the Cards). Once Danny-boy gets going and Freddie Freeman makes an adjustment or two, it’s going to be nice to see the full potential of this offense.

Man, that was impressive stuff by O-Flare last night. Talk about clutch!
100
Nate Says:
May 7th, 2011 at 9:28 am
Julio Teheran. I never would of thought he’d get the spot start over Minor or Rodrigo. Pretty freakin’ excited about tonight’s game.
101
Nate Says:
May 7th, 2011 at 9:32 am
The 7th from EOF last night was beyond huge.
102
Jo-Bu Says:
May 7th, 2011 at 9:35 am
I’m stoked about tonight’s game, too! I’m trying to keep it in perspective but I say: Advantage Bravos with the Phillies not having seen JT first-hand. Gotta kick those Phillies while they are down a bit.
103
Nate Says:
May 7th, 2011 at 9:56 am
Agreed, Jo-Bu. Kendrick has given us trouble before, but they’re only expecting to get 5 innings out of him.
104
QC Bravo Says:
May 7th, 2011 at 9:57 am
I realize we talked about this earlier this week, but once again I watched Jason slide headfirst (twice!) last night and had heart palpitations.
105
Curt Says:
May 7th, 2011 at 10:50 am
Minor just pitched on Thursday, so he couldn’t have done it
106
Jo-Bu Says:
May 7th, 2011 at 11:58 am
I might be in the minority here but I don’t think Jason Heyward is a very smart player with all of this head-first sliding. The guy hurt his thumb last season and hurt the team a bit and still, he’s not learned his lesson. The guy slides head first on everything — not very bright.
107
Kate Says:
May 7th, 2011 at 1:30 pm
Do all the other MLB players that slide head first lack intelligence or is it just Jason?
He’s not the only guy on the team that slides head first.
108
Curt Says:
May 7th, 2011 at 1:51 pm
I just think head first slides are the more popular way to slide now. Prado slides head first and he is a very smart player. Players think it is faster than sliding feet first and that they can control their slide more. Not sure it is an indictment of heyward’s smarts.
109
Curt Says:
May 7th, 2011 at 1:52 pm
Or, what Kate said
110
Steve Says:
May 7th, 2011 at 2:06 pm
Jo-Bu: thanks for the appraisal of the comments board. A great tone has been set from the original crew of commenters (you know who you are!) and has continued, for the most part, with all the new folks. If everyone keeps up the civility, it will be no fun for the bullies.

I think the head first slide thing are instincts and muscle memory taking over. They’ve been doing it that way, in those particular situations, since they were kids.

SOOOOOOOOOOOOOO effing excited about tonight’s game and the Teheran start.

I’ve not seen the Lowe trade stuff. Interesting. There’s certainly a wealth of pitching and the FO must be really pissed about the DUI if they are considering it. I’m not advocating it, but it’s interesting. We’d probably get some really great guys for him.
111
Jo-Bu Says:
May 7th, 2011 at 2:13 pm
The part about the smarts and sliding head first is that Jason has already had an injury from it. I understand the instinct argument but you have to be “smarter” than that and realize that it’s not required in all situations just close situations — risk/reward factor is too great for such a valuable offensive player as Jason.
112
Steve Says:
May 7th, 2011 at 2:15 pm
Jo-Bu: point taken.

Just saw the stuff on Lowe. Rumor states that Braves would consider trading for him at the deadline. Nothing imminent. Makes more sense.
113
Kate Says:
May 7th, 2011 at 2:51 pm
Would you have a problem with Jason diving for a ball in the outfield? He could get injured doing that just as easily.

Is the Teheran debut more exciting that Hanson? Heyward?
114
Jo-Bu Says:
May 7th, 2011 at 5:34 pm
Kate:

I would not have a problem if Jason dove for a ball. Remember, the point is, if the play requires a Pete Rose dive, then you gotta do it. Same for a play in the outfield.

There’s playing the game the right way, which Jason does, but he needs to remember that the team needs his bat in the line up. More to my point, Jason Heyward is not a model of health. I’m one who believe that his value could be cut short due to being injury prone. I sure hope I’m wrong but rumor has it that he’s been playing through occasional back pain since he was around sixteen.
115
Leah Says:
May 7th, 2011 at 10:03 pm
darn…good job by the kid. Great defensive play by Prado! We’ll get ‘em tomorrow.
116
Eric Says:
May 7th, 2011 at 10:07 pm
A lot of people complain about the Braves lack of aggressiveness on bases. Stealing bases takes a significant toll on the body. Our more athletic players – Heyward, McLouth, Prado – have injury histories. I wonder if that makes Fredi more apprehensive to send them sometimes?
117
Steve Says:
May 7th, 2011 at 10:21 pm
“Is the Teheran debut more exciting that Hanson? Heyward?”

I don’t think anything can be more exciting than Heyward’s debut. The madness began building in ST with Heyward and was at such an insane level by opening day.

And I think it was equal between he and Hanson.

Eric – #116: I don’t know if it’s true, but it’s a good theory.
118
Nate Says:
May 8th, 2011 at 11:27 am
#117, Kate I agree with Steve. I don’t know if we will see a more anticipated prospect than Jason. The stories last Spring were mythical. I think Julio and Tommy are pretty even. When Tommy came up we needed him in a bad way. Teheran did arrive younger, but the need isn’t as great as it was for Tommy. That said, I was impressed with Julio last night. Yes, he looked like he could use some more seasoning, but it is the Phillies. That lineup is pretty, pretty good.
119
Nate Says:
May 8th, 2011 at 11:43 am
“I really think he’s going to be a better pitcher for it,” Gonzalez said. “And we better learn how to pronounce his name because we’ll see him soon. And when he does come, he’ll stay up here a long time.” (Carroll Rogers)

“If he needed to come up right now, he’d be successful,” catcher Brian McCann said.

Awesome. Big time trade coming at the deadline. Medlen/Beachy/Minor/Teheran, How do you make them all fit with Lowe/Hudson/Hanson/JJ? Plus you have Vizcaino and Delgado…
120
Nate Says:
May 8th, 2011 at 11:45 am
I imagine Frank Wren looking over his pitching depth chart and giving a Mr. Burns “Excellent” in response to what he sees.
121
Leah Says:
May 8th, 2011 at 2:34 pm
My Mother’s Day gift is Atlanta Braves ticket for myself and the fam for June 18th. Maybe I’ll see some ABTers there! Really hoping for a win today.
122
Nate Says:
May 8th, 2011 at 5:38 pm
Classless Lakers. Ridiculous.
123
Nate Says:
May 8th, 2011 at 8:22 pm
That SB attempt by Martin was both sad and confusing.
124
Leah Says:
May 8th, 2011 at 9:14 pm
How does that make the Yunel lovers of the world feel?
125
Leah Says:
May 8th, 2011 at 10:08 pm
Ok…read a Curt’s tweets and responded to it on the board. Can’t keep my virtual conversations straight.
126
Curt Says:
May 8th, 2011 at 10:33 pm
Leah, sorry to break your heart, but Steve has taken over a lot of the tweeting this year. he wanted it more cheery.
127
Leah Says:
May 8th, 2011 at 10:42 pm
Crest fallen…well neither of you respond so…
128
Steve Says:
May 8th, 2011 at 10:45 pm
Leah -what are you talking about? I see no DM or any other message to @atlbaseballtalk on Twitter tonight from you … I hate when you get crestfallen.
129
Leah Says:
May 8th, 2011 at 11:16 pm
Gave up Stevie…no @atlbaseballtalk tweets from me. Too much rejection from times past. However, BRAVES WIN! Take that philthies! So glad they didn’t take the lead in the 8th or I was going to have to confess that I texted smack talk to our associate pastor. He’s a huge Phillies fan and I couldn’t wait to rub it in. Was afraid I’d jinxed us.
130
QC Bravo Says:
May 8th, 2011 at 11:18 pm
Can’t believe Shane struck out looking – he and Polanco scare the most on that team, even more than Ryno. Also can’t believe he didn’t get run.
131
Leah Says:
May 8th, 2011 at 11:29 pm
Was that 3rd called strike really a strike? Not that it matters, just curious.
132
wiley Says:
May 8th, 2011 at 11:31 pm
according to k zone: no 2-3 inches outside
133
Pure Says:
May 8th, 2011 at 11:32 pm
It was off the plate when McCann caught it, but it might have nipped the front corner when it crossed the plate. Well, that’s my story.
134
Leah Says:
May 9th, 2011 at 7:16 am
Sounds good to me Pure!

Show #145: Rough Week On and Off the Field

134 Responses to “Show #145: Rough Week On and Off the Field”

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