Show #149: A Hard Fought 4-1 Week. A Lapse to Start the New.

May 31, 2011

Show #149: A Hard Fought 4-1 Week. A Lapse to Start the New.

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142 Responses to “Show #149: A Hard Fought 4-1 Week. A Lapse to Start the New.”

1
Nate Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 1:26 am
Matt Kemp.
2
Walker Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 3:28 am
Co sign with Nate.

Schafer
Minor
B Prospect

For

Kemp
3
ham Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 7:04 am
Interesting guys. I would be down with that.
4
Anne Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 9:17 am
If they can platoon left field (like they did last year with Matty and…oh, I wasn’t watching if it wasn’t), why can’t they platoon center??
5
Curt Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 9:56 am
Anne, not sure what you get out of platooning Schafer and McLouth. You platooned Diaz and Hinske, whomever, because you could go rightie, leftie. Schafer and McLouth are both lefties. I say it’s time to give Schafer the playing time and see how it goes.

Great call on Kemp. All in on that one. Especially with the disaster that is the Dodgers.
6
Anne Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 9:57 am
Ohhhh. Curt, you’re so smart!
7
Curt Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 11:11 am
Apu me friend good
8
Kate Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 11:25 am
Atlanta is where good hitters go to die. Why trade for someone just to be disappointed again?
9
DAP Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 12:26 pm
good news about schafer vs. mclouth…

mclouth wont be back for at least a week, so we will have 6 or 7 games, maybe around 30 ABs before we will have to decide what to do.

I have got to say that I found it funny y’all are getting excited about bunt hits. I preferred the double over the right fielder myself. :- )
10
DAP Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 1:08 pm
What to do with all the pitching prospects, but no real holes to fill? Nothing. Lots of needs this offseason, so save them for then, to make a trade.

Trades during the season this year will need to be marginal prospects for bench players or middle relief. We’re gonna have to go with what we got, guys. Players like Bill Hall might be our mid season additions.
11
Frigatedoc Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 2:17 pm
Good (or bad) words about Uggla….. you were right on the spot about him. i don’t think Frenchy was EVER this bad. If he keeps this up he will be the next “Mr. Baseball” ala Bob Uecker making comercials saying “Must be on the front row….”
12
john j Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 4:01 pm
A couple of GM thoughts:

Did someone mention? Despite not living up to expectations, Frenchy (.268 career avg. with great arm) plays for the love of the game and doesn’t eat up a team payroll. He is not burning up the league but is helping KC. One GM’s loss is another’s gain.

Also, when a GM trades and signs a player after a career year, they better know what they are doing. Uggla: average defense, power for second base, .258 career avg., inflated OBP (walks/team circumstances). Career year = big bucks!

I know they are unrelated thoughts as these were different situations and there is a $10 million a year difference.

As with any moves, Time will tell.
13
DAP Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 4:20 pm
frenchy is helping bridge the gap in KC until some good everyday players get ready. Sorry, but frenchy is not an everyday player in the majors leagues. He is a platoon player, when he is used right. remember, he is a starter for kansas city. its like being the ace pitcher on the houston astros. faint praise.
14
Bubdylan Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 6:36 pm
Baseball prospectus/Marc Normandin August 8,2007

Re: the Dan Fuggla meter, here’s a quote to make your stomach hurt, in case you missed it at the motherblog:

(from an old Baseball Prospectus article, circa 2008)

“Dan Uggla was a surprise to basically everyone who heard he was the Marlins starting second baseman at the outset of 2006. He has managed to outperform expectations two years running, and given his ability to hit for power, may continue to do so for a few more years. No matter what happens, Uggla has already turned a poor minor league career into two productive years in the majors filled with bigger paychecks and deserved recognition. Whether that will last much beyond age 30 given his skill-set is another issue, but knowing the Marlins and their frugal ways, at least it won’t be their issue to deal with.”

(Source: some joker at the AJC blog)

Enjoyed the show.

Foul on making a trade right now. Gotta find out about Schafer first.

If Jordan flops and something nice for CF becomes available, that’s where I’d pull the trigger, because it would meet a future need and meanwhile a CF can play corner OF games this season according to daily needs (Prado at 3b sometimes, Heyward off days, McLouth off days: it’s the most flexible acquisition we could make, and, pending the Schafer verdict, the most vital one for the future.)
15
Bubdylan Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 6:37 pm
*The top lines of the above post went screwy. Ignore the very top source line and the rest will make sense.
16
Steve Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 7:00 pm
Listening to the show right now, and commenting as I go:

“Going in to the season, I thought the Braves were going to be really, really good.” Me too, Curtis. Reaaaalllly good. But the Uggla travesty plus zero contribution from Heyward has changed the complexion completely. The front office, particularly about the Uggla debacle (there are so many ways to describe it!) must be in absolute disbelief everyday.
17
Steve Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 7:03 pm
Regarding the Marvin the Martian comment (and so true, by the way with that double flapped helmet on) I can report that, in person, Schafer’s head does not look as small compared to the rest of him. Same goes for Sherrill.
18
Nate Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 7:32 pm
Is Chipper doing a Troy Glaus impression, or are his legs just breaking down slowly? Either way his 1st to 3rd on the McCann double looked painful.
19
Nate Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 8:05 pm
Chipper’s running looked better on that one.
20
Nate Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 8:09 pm
Minor looks really good.
21
Steve Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 8:18 pm
My first reaction to the Struggla meter is that it seems IMPOSSIBLE that he’s actually hit 7 homers this season. And I think it’s great that Fredi sat him again tonight. For Fuggla’s sake, he needs to clear his head. I think, starting tomorrow, he should permanently be in the 8 hole until his average is up over .240 (which will take a bunch of hits).
22
Nate Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 8:24 pm
Freddie! Yes!
23
Steve Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 8:47 pm
One more add for Good Sign of the Week: Arodys Vizcaino (the real get in the Javy to the Yankees deal) was promoted to AA a few days ago.
24
Steve Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 9:15 pm
Whoops. I just uttered wayyyy to loud an “ohhhhhhh” in the press box when Gonzo missed that ground ball.
25
ham Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 9:22 pm
make it stop . . .
26
Curt Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 9:27 pm
And scene.

Really good Frontline on tonight.
27
ham Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 9:59 pm
Feeling less and less confident. Could we trade Minor for a new offense?
28
ham Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 10:12 pm
Stevie – Looks like there are 11 people still there. Please confirm.
29
ham Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 10:22 pm
Chipper! Way to come through! If I had to pick any Bravo to have the last AB, it is Heap. C’mon MAC!
30
ham Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 10:23 pm
Alas. Sad face . . .
31
Bubdylan Says:
May 31st, 2011 at 10:43 pm
Mac’s umpteenth F bomb of the year. That outta pack in the Southern crowds.
32
Steve Says:
June 1st, 2011 at 8:50 am
Ham – the announced attendance was 18,000. And it looked like 14,000.

Why oh why did Fredi leave Gearrin in for so long. All I saw yesterday indicated that EOF was available. Could have really used him in the 7th.

And Hanson tonight, who I’ve lost all confidence in.
33
Anne Says:
June 1st, 2011 at 9:44 am
I just gave away my tickets for tonight. Partly because it’s going to be 1,000 degrees and partly because I can’t bear to see a crappy team sweep our currently crappy team.
34
john j Says:
June 1st, 2011 at 10:29 am
Looking for a positive? Uggla’s average didn’t go down last night.

Gearrin hasn’t really shown that he deserves to be in tight games/situations; Braves have better.
35
Curt Says:
June 1st, 2011 at 11:16 am
Does Winnipeg need a baseball team too?
36
Mark in Memphis Says:
June 1st, 2011 at 11:59 am
Well, I guess it is all over.

For the most part, them that are in place to make the playoffs on Memorial Day are the ones that make the playoffs come September.
37
Adam Says:
June 1st, 2011 at 12:05 pm
Just think of it this way: We have a pretty good record and we’re playing poorly. When we start playing at our best we’ll be unbeatable.
38
Eric Says:
June 1st, 2011 at 1:11 pm
Jason Heyward taken 7th in an ESPN Franchise Player Mock that kind-of makes sense:

http://espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?page=110601franchisedraft
39
Mark in Memphis Says:
June 1st, 2011 at 1:45 pm
Sorry “tongue-in-cheek” is hard to convey “in forum”…
40
Mark in Memphis Says:
June 1st, 2011 at 1:50 pm
Uggla is definitely pressing. Of course, he had all off-season to hear media call him “the pop in the middle of the line-up the Braves have been needing for years” when in Fla he was just another good guy in the middle of the line-up.

He needs to move up on the plate to cover the outside pitch the opposing pitchers are KILLING him with and DARE them to pitch him inside (most all of his homeruns have been on mistakes inside). If he could line drive those outside pitches and fight off anything inside, I think the homeruns would come.
41
Mark in Memphis Says:
June 1st, 2011 at 1:54 pm
How about JJ to Maddox comparisons? (of course, JJ actually HAS a fastball)…

Maddox has shown consistant greatness where as JJ has just started to figure it out (i.e. not having the throw everything as hard as he can… as his fastball at 94-96 is good but his 90-93 fastball in the right place is better…)
42
Mark in Memphis Says:
June 1st, 2011 at 2:00 pm
What do you think about on days when Chipper is rested:

Mc Clouth Schafer Mather/Henske

(Prado Gonz. Uggla Freeman)
Brooks Gonz. Prado Freeman

McCann

If he is going to play the field, I think I like Brooks better at third. He seems to look better when he doesn’t have time to think about it and is forced to just field.

We had a guy once on our slowpitch softball team who played everything off to the side at second, but when moved to third he didn’t have time and ended up fielding EVERYTHING that was hit that way…
43
Curt Says:
June 1st, 2011 at 3:38 pm
I would rather Brooks Conrad be playing third for your slow-pitch softball team.
44
john j Says:
June 1st, 2011 at 4:17 pm
Yes, please don’t make Conrad think!
45
john j Says:
June 1st, 2011 at 4:20 pm
Look what it is doing to Uggla. Are we sure Uggla was reading the stories in the off-season? Or, was he planning his retirement party?
46
Bubdylan Says:
June 1st, 2011 at 7:37 pm
Are you FREAKING KIDDING me??? We have the pitcher on the ropes in the first inning, and Uggla comes up with bases juiced and one out, SWINGS AT THE VERY FIRST FREAKING OFFERING????

Somebody needs to be fired. FIRED. Terminated. Unemployed. Out of work. Let go. Downsized. Canned. Sent packing. Pink slipped. Axed. Shown the %$#** door.

This team DEFINITELY has a philosophy problem. Not just a slump. A serious approach problem.
47
Bubdylan Says:
June 1st, 2011 at 7:43 pm
And two batters later, the lead is gone.

The Braves are pathetic. And I like to hold off on the P word until they really deserve it. But they are pathetic. And it isn’t even necessary.
48
Bubdylan Says:
June 1st, 2011 at 7:51 pm
Another great quote from our idiot manager in today’s article on Chipper’s soreness:

“He wants to play [hurt]. And you know what, good for him. I think we need more of that in our game sometimes: ‘Hey, we’re struggling. We’ve got a couple of guys hurt. I’m gonna get in there.’”

That’s wonderful, Fredi. We just lost a half season from Heyward last year, and a quarter season of him this year, and shelved our CF prospect for two years, ALL on account of playing “through” injuries. And now you come out with this.

Bobby Cox, please come back. Just walk down there and throw him out on his ear.
49
Leah Says:
June 1st, 2011 at 9:21 pm
#48 Bub’s asking for BC…hell just froze over. Has this crew of umps heard of a balk before?
50
Leah Says:
June 1st, 2011 at 9:22 pm
Oh…and great show. Y’all are really positive when Steve’s not around.
51
Leah Says:
June 1st, 2011 at 9:25 pm
Have I mentioned this season that Cantu is one uuuuuugly dude?
52
Steve Says:
June 1st, 2011 at 9:43 pm
My wife, who never reads the comments section, picked up this laptop, where the comments were up and accurately stated, “wow, Bubdylan is really angry.”

C’mon Bub – all is not lost. This team is too talented and can overcome a less than stellar coach and a bunch of hidden injuries. I believe it.

M in M: I’d much rather Brooks at 2nd. I know that was his house of horrors last year, but it’s an easier position.
53
Pure Says:
June 1st, 2011 at 9:50 pm
Steve’s comment regarding the wife reminded me of a funny incident.
My wife, who doesn’t follow or understand baseball, caught a quick glimpse of a Braves game I was watching. She said: “Hey, that guy is too old and too fat to be playing baseball”. Bobby was going to the mound to get a pitcher.
54
Pure Says:
June 1st, 2011 at 10:03 pm
With that play by Jordan, he might have cemented his place in center field.
55
Steve Says:
June 1st, 2011 at 10:23 pm
#54 – I had that same thought, tonight. And, echoing what the guys said on the show this week, it seems like a no brainer to me to keep Schafer in center. You’re not going to exercise McLouth’s option for ’12. There’s no way. So let’s really see what Schafer can do. He’s already an upgrade.
56
Bubdylan Says:
June 1st, 2011 at 10:23 pm
Steve, I know, just grumpy.

Good game, Bravos. Way to … not get swept by the Friars. 8)

Dan, do something against the Mets or I’m sticking a needle in my Popeye action figure.
57
Bubdylan Says:
June 1st, 2011 at 10:33 pm
Upton wins it for the D-Backs over the Fish, following a KELLY JOHNSON WALK, BABY. Profitable day.
58
Bubdylan Says:
June 1st, 2011 at 10:35 pm
In 35 innings of relief work this year, Venters have allowed … wait for it … 2 runs.
59
Bubdylan Says:
June 1st, 2011 at 10:37 pm
lol, Venters have allowed. I guess he’s pitched so much I figured he was two guys.
60
Adam Says:
June 1st, 2011 at 10:51 pm
I wish he was two guys.
61
Jo-Bu Says:
June 1st, 2011 at 11:23 pm
So folks, what are the chances that Tommy Hanson is traded? Yeah, it’s early but hey, if the Braves need a bat Tommy’s number could be the odd-man-out — gotta give up something good to get something good.

Pssst: he’s too much of a fly-ball pitcher for my taste and I’m nervous evertime he starts — just never know which Tommy will you’ll get. Also, I really don’t think he’s a cerebral-type of guy out there on the mound. I know folks have been talking about Mike Minor but Minor has yet to prove he belongs here and we’d probably have to trade some of the farm with him.
62
Leah Says:
June 2nd, 2011 at 7:15 am
I say foul.
63
Steve Says:
June 2nd, 2011 at 9:04 am
“I guess he’s pitched so much I figured he was two guys.” Love it.

Jo-Bu: I’m with you on the nervousness you feel about Hanson. My confidence level is not high with any of his starts. But I just don’t see a trade involving him. He’s too valuable to the team. I mean, despite my nervousness, I’d still want him in my rotation over Minor or Beachy. Maybe that changes with some more starts from those two.
64
Anne Says:
June 2nd, 2011 at 9:05 am
FINALLY going to the Gwinnett Braves on Friday. They do Friday night fireworks, too. Saturday, BTW, is Freddie Freeman Bobblehead Night – which I’m pretty sure are leftovers.
65
Nate Says:
June 2nd, 2011 at 10:02 am
That play by Schafer was unreal. I think McLouth is one step away from Royal, so I would love to see Schafer play the rest of the year in CF. He’s better than Nate at everything. Fact.

P.S. I hope Craig bought him a couple beers for that one.
66
Eric Says:
June 2nd, 2011 at 10:08 am
Venters should be an All-Star lock.
67
DAP Says:
June 2nd, 2011 at 10:16 am
guys, tommy hanson is only 24 years old, in his 2 full season in the majors. he isnt always gonna be lock-down.

but a 2.82 ERA, and he makes y’all nervous? sounds like a personal problem!

the braves trading hanson would be like the dodgers trading kershaw, like the A’s trading cahill, like the rays trading david price. it would be crazy to do that.
68
Nate Says:
June 2nd, 2011 at 10:20 am
Steve, I feel the same way about Hanson.

Also, he’s still very young. Has he even pitched 2 full years? He’s probably our 4th starter and he’s 6-4 with a 2.82 ERA- not too shabby. Plus, he has some postseason experience. A playoff rotation of Lowe-JJ-Hudson-Hanson is the Braves best option, and I think you have to keep that in tact.
69
Nate Says:
June 2nd, 2011 at 10:21 am
#66, Absolutely.

#67, agreed. hah.
70
Curt Says:
June 2nd, 2011 at 11:49 am
After going 0-for-4 in the Braves’ 5-4 loss Tuesday, Prado was spotted going into the indoor batting cage alone for a late-night session.

“That’s the way I am,” he said. “Sometimes you have bad days, and I felt yesterday that I didn’t get it done, and I couldn’t go home like that. I had to do something to fix my swing. And today was a new day. I felt better at home plate, and I got some results.”

Vote for your All Stars soon and often.

Hanson is no David Price.
71
Nate Says:
June 2nd, 2011 at 11:55 am
“in tact” better known as “intact”- can’t blame that one on the phone.

You guys asked on an earlier show if the Braves had a fiery rah-rah leader, and I think Prado has to be the leader for it. He is a high energy guy, and he is definitely the hardest worker.
72
Steve Says:
June 2nd, 2011 at 12:56 pm
DAP #67 – I know. And the numbers support it. There are just those games he has (both this year and last year) where he loses his control either for the whole game or an inning or two and it rattles me. Again, I get the numbers.
73
Bubdylan Says:
June 2nd, 2011 at 2:16 pm
I will join the Hanson poo poo party. He doesn’t excite me at all, and worries me as often as not. No matter what the numbers say, I’d rather keep JJ than Hanson, even though I don’t think JJ will maintain his ridiculous numbers. I just love watching him pitch, love his passion, and think of him as a Brave.

Much like Garrett Anderson (except Tommy has … ability), Hanson seems like a fish out of water here. 100% expect him to head for Cali as soon as the gettin’s good.
74
ham Says:
June 2nd, 2011 at 2:31 pm
We would be fools to give up Tommy. Other than JJ, Venters, and for the most part Huddy, all of our pitchers make me nervous. He makes me nervous because he is young, not because he isn’t (or won’t become) great.
75
Jo-Bu-Shadow Says:
June 2nd, 2011 at 2:32 pm
Steve:

You nailed it, bro. When he gets going bad, he doesn’t “seem” to have the ability to make the needed adjustments. This is the lacking cerebral part I’m referring to. He’s not a smart pitcher, imho. He’s in his third season here and I think he should be a little more seasoned than he is showing us. I think he’s the weakest link in our rotation. Also, those who are watching his stats should also watch his mechanics and recovery. When he’s pulling off to the first-base side, his control is terrible.

In general, I wish more baseball pithers would work on their post-pitch recovery to a defensible position instead of falling off of either side of the mound. This way they are ready to field the ball.
76
Bubdylan Says:
June 2nd, 2011 at 2:41 pm
Ham, when the time comes, either Hanson or JJ will be shipped out for finances, and either should bring a nice return. Hanson (better health, better stuff) will bring the bigger return. I don’t mean to give him up lightly (coughESCOBARcough) for something dumb. I mean I’d rather have JJ for the long term.
77
Curt Says:
June 2nd, 2011 at 3:27 pm
It will be JJ since he’s a Boras client.
78
Bubdylan Says:
June 2nd, 2011 at 3:29 pm
So is Hanson, though, Curt.
79
Curt Says:
June 2nd, 2011 at 4:37 pm
BORASSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS
80
Curt Says:
June 2nd, 2011 at 4:37 pm
It will be both of them then
81
Bubdylan Says:
June 2nd, 2011 at 4:43 pm
I think Atlanta is sucker enough (see D. Lowe) to pay the Boras price for one, not both, of them. I expect it to be the cheaper of the two: Jurrjens. Also, if either has a shot of coming to Atlanta, even with Boras, without squeezing hard for every last cent, it’s Jair. Tommy is doing the Boras Dance step by step, having his pre-arby salaries forced, etc.

Also, Tommy’s kind of a jerk.

*runs and hides*
82
Bubdylan Says:
June 2nd, 2011 at 5:02 pm
I shouldn’t have said that. I take it back.
83
Jo-Bu-Shadow Says:
June 2nd, 2011 at 5:27 pm
Gotta factor in Medlen’s return next season, too. One might not expect too much from him at all this season on his return. So with that said, Hanson probably won’t be going anywhere this season. If Kris comes back next season to his full potential or even close to the way he performed last year, Hanson could be the odd man out.
84
Jo-Bu-Shadow Says:
June 2nd, 2011 at 5:30 pm
Oh, and Meds is a switch hitting pitcher that can get a bunt down regularly, too. If he gets his swing going at this level, that’d be like having a DH in the lineup when he starts.
85
Steve Says:
June 2nd, 2011 at 11:09 pm
I miss Medlen. Damn, he was clutch last year.

On a separate note, I would like to annihilate the Mets this weekend, please.
86
Anne Says:
June 3rd, 2011 at 9:11 am
Atlanta Baseball Talk: the podcast where they use the word annihilate correctly spelled, without using a thesaurus or dictionary. Go Braves!
87
Nate Says:
June 3rd, 2011 at 9:21 am
Great press conference from their manager the other day. They should just call that team The Mess.
88
Steve Says:
June 3rd, 2011 at 9:27 am
The Mess. I love it. And so obvious, yet I’ve never heard it before.
89
DAP Says:
June 3rd, 2011 at 11:18 am
curt…”Hanson is no David Price.”

they are extremly comparable based on age, time in the majors, and their importa.ce to their team.

tommy hanson has a better career ERA, K per 9, BB per 9, HR per 9, a better K/BB ratio, and a much better ERA+ (which accounts for league and ballpark).

its close in some of these categories, but hanson is better. so, if you meant that “hanson is no david price” because hanson is better…you might be right. i think they are pretty comparable, though.

guys, our pitches make us nervous because our offense isnt scoring enough runs. its has little to do with our league-leading pitching.
90
Danny Says:
June 3rd, 2011 at 11:59 am
I’m with you DAP. This would be a top three team if we had one more of our all-stars hitting their baseball card average.
91
john j Says:
June 3rd, 2011 at 12:13 pm
If a player loves the town, other players, and the manager, it is possible to beat the “Scott Boras” problem. Most recently, Carlos Gonzales signed a reasonable deal with Rockies. Not sure the Braves have a similar situation.
92
john j Says:
June 3rd, 2011 at 12:19 pm
With Mac on a hot streak and Freeman doing well, how about a week off at Disney World for Uggla to go back and find his swing; that is where he seems to have lost it.
93
Walker Says:
June 3rd, 2011 at 2:07 pm
I criticize this team like everybody else but we have to be the most spoiled fan base in baseball. We should lucky that with our dwindling payroll we are able to compete like this every year. There are alot of teams that would love to be in our position. We are 5 games over .500 and 3.5 games out the division and 1.5 out the wild card. Realistically the offense most definitely will get better. Heyward will come back strong, and if Uggla ends the year hitting .240 then he would have been hitting great since his average now is .178. Our pitching will keep us from long losing streaks.Our upcoming schedule for the next month seems easy. I think we are in a great position to strike. I do wish we could hit more but I have to say that I am happy with where this team is right now.
94
Walker Says:
June 3rd, 2011 at 2:09 pm
Why does it always seem like the Braves are under the radar? I rarely see MLB network or espn talk about them. For example, our pitching staff has allowed the least runs all year but all I hear about are the Phillies and A’s staff. What gives?
95
Jo-Bu-Shadow Says:
June 3rd, 2011 at 3:36 pm
#94

Yeah, I know what you mean. The Braves night not be in regular rotation on MLBN but when they are mentioned, all of the analysts still praise our ball club.

It’s like DOB wrote the other day: Even though we as fans are down on the club, the National media still thinks this team will hit and when they do, it’s a different Braves ball club and one that could potentially unseat the Phillies.

Now, it seems to me that if there is any bias towoward coverage, it’s toward the North Eastern huge market areas (NYY, BOS, PHI). Hell, I thoguht for the first month of the season that MLB Network was the New York Yankees Network with the amount of games they were showing. It makes since. The NYY is the best selling franchise in the world of sport and there’s lots of money in advertising. Doesn’t me we in the rest of the country want to watch them all of the time. ‘least I don’t.
96
DAP Says:
June 3rd, 2011 at 3:40 pm
i dont think any of the national networks spend all that much time on 3rd place teams.

the braves do get love though, when they come up on MLBN.
97
john j Says:
June 3rd, 2011 at 3:53 pm
Hanson, Heyward and Freeman all got quite a bit of national coverage when they came up. If they all get hot, they along with JJ, Mac and Prado will help get more press. THEY WILL GET NOTICED BEFORE THIS YEAR IS UP! If Braves don’t get at least the wild card, the only national news likely will be Chipper’s retirement.
98
ham Says:
June 3rd, 2011 at 3:56 pm
I just read that someone won the MLB 2K11 Million Dollar Challenge (a prize going to the first person to throw the first perfect game of the season in the MLB video game). This year’s winner used Roy Halladay against the Astros to claim the prize.

The amazing tidbit in that story? That last year’s winner used Kenshin Kawakami (yes, KK) to beat the Mets.

All I’m sayin’ is that if dude won a million dollars for getting a perfect game with Halladay, the other guy should be getting 10 million for getting one with KK.

Sorry, Curt.
99
Walker Says:
June 3rd, 2011 at 6:02 pm
Peter Moylan in a dress LOOOOOLL!!!

Link : http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/blog/big_league_stew/post/Truth-Peter-Moylan-8217-s-fianc-e-looks-better?urn=mlb-wp8448
100
Danny Says:
June 3rd, 2011 at 8:49 pm
Poor Schafer! Is anyone else surprised to see Diory the hitter this year? He has become surprisingly consistent!
101
Adam Says:
June 3rd, 2011 at 9:00 pm
I predict two runs this inning!
102
Adam Says:
June 3rd, 2011 at 9:13 pm
Wow
103
Anne Says:
June 3rd, 2011 at 9:21 pm
GBraves lose 3-2. Impressed by pitcher Juan Abreu. Bobby’s kid or nephew??
104
ham Says:
June 3rd, 2011 at 10:27 pm
Anyone heard an update on Schafer?
105
Anne Says:
June 3rd, 2011 at 10:47 pm
DOB tweeted: Schafer is undergoing a CT scan as well as an x-ray – won’t have update until tomorrow.
106
Leah Says:
June 3rd, 2011 at 11:40 pm
Speculations? Worst case scenario? Besides Schafer taking a ball to the face, it was a good night for baseball. Braves win, Phillies lose a heartbreaker to the Pirates, Marlins lose to the Brew Crew, and Chicken Dinner is Killing it. Although, you know how I hate to brag.
107
Steve Says:
June 4th, 2011 at 8:53 am
All – saw a middle of the night tweet that Schafer’s nose is broken. You’ve got to figure that means the DL. Say hello to Matt Young/Joe Mather: your new CF platoon!

Great win last night. Looked like another one of those games that represent the worst of this team and then they turned it around. I hope it can be one of those turning point games.

Did anyone watch the Sports South post game show where Gant came right and said there’s no way you replace Schafer with McLouth. I don’t think he even realized how definitive he was being.
108
Steve Says:
June 4th, 2011 at 8:53 am
*came right out
109
Walker Says:
June 4th, 2011 at 5:30 pm
I like this comment someone made on ajc.com about Uggla and Wren.

“No one can blame Frank Wren if Dan Uggla turns out to be a big bust that were stuck with for 5 seasons, thats for sure. Maybe 5 years was a bit much but he was going to get that from someone anyways. Talking about a all out every play player, that has been one of the most durable players of the past 5 years. The most powerful 2nd baseman in all of baseball with consistant power numbers year in year out. No one seen this bad of a slump or downfall or whatever you wanna call it it coming. 95% of us bloggers would have signed him to that same extension.. In order to keep great players you have to offer them long term deals, everyone knows that usually those last few years on a deal arnt as great because of decline but thats the price you pay to keep them around threw there great years.”
110
Curt Says:
June 4th, 2011 at 6:14 pm
So they said today that it is a sinus bone and no DL for Schafer, yet. He might wear some sort of extra protection on his helmet. McLouth hasn’t even been hitting down at Disney, so I don’t think he is in any plans right now.
111
Jake Says:
June 4th, 2011 at 6:39 pm
Quick comment on the last show – I’m interested in the blurb about McCann’s innings.

Apparently, he is leading NL catchers in innings played. Well he should be, because he is always one of the best offensive catchers. BUT we also have the best backup catcher in baseball! Rossy always seems to have a hand in winning, why doesn’t he get more opportunity? I know we have serious trouble scoring runs, but if you look at the numbers, we really haven’t lost anything by putting Rossy in to start. Give McCann a few more days off!
112
Anonymous Says:
June 4th, 2011 at 6:41 pm
Dillon “Gee, it sucks I pitch for the Mets.”

Dillon “Gee, I hate my last name.”

Dillon “Gee, Dan Uggla couldn’t hit a 400 pound woman sitting on a tee.”

Corny I know
113
Pure Says:
June 4th, 2011 at 7:14 pm
A nice feature on Venters:
“Venters is a star in waiting for Braves” – By Terence Moore | MLB.com Columnist
http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20110603&content_id=19968788
114
Steve Says:
June 4th, 2011 at 9:53 pm
#112 – Good stuff.

What a forgettable game tonight. Uggla got a hit though. I’m sure that’s the hit that gets him going. Not really.
115
john j Says:
June 4th, 2011 at 10:39 pm
uggla will hit in 56 straight games. bet on it.
116
john j Says:
June 4th, 2011 at 10:50 pm
comment on #109. Sometimes an executive makes a well thought out decision and it blows up on him and sets the company back. No one cares that it was an unexpected outcome. It is called “accountablity” and the executive’s career is impacted. Honestly, I don’t believe too may fans would have wanted to make Uggla their top paid player when the money was going to be needed to keep our younger players (JJ, McCann, Prado, Hanson, Kimbrel, etc.). The Braves are managed on a tight budget and have a strong core for the future; money should not be wasted on .258 career hitters after they have their career year for another team. Tight budgets mean you manage conservatively. “no one can blame Wren”? Sure we can; it’s a free country.
117
Pure Says:
June 5th, 2011 at 12:39 pm
“The lefty/righty catching platoon of Brian McCann and David Ross has been the NL’s best this season.”
http://espn.go.com/blog/sweetspot/post/_/id/11907/national-league-platooning
118
Nate Says:
June 5th, 2011 at 1:58 pm
Our pitching depth in the minors is just silly. Enough arms to go around and then some. Also, They should teach Mauro Gomez how to play 2nd, 3rd, and LF.

New show tonight?
119
Steve Says:
June 5th, 2011 at 7:05 pm
#118 – Yes, new show tonight. It’s our 150th. We have lined up a special Braves player from the ’90′s. Hopefully, it comes to pass – you never know. But we are CRAZY excited about it.
120
Walker Says:
June 5th, 2011 at 7:46 pm
KLESKO!! Tonight?
121
Walker Says:
June 5th, 2011 at 7:56 pm
@ 116 – John J

The bottom line is that if the braves didn’t acquire Uggla in the winter, they would not have come into this season with a chance at the World Series. In order for the Braves to win a Championship Dan Uggly needs to do what he’s done the last 5 years. He’s only 31 and he didn’t change leagues. The only thing I can think of is that he’s playing for a team that’s expected to win. He would have a heart attack if he played in New York.
122
Walker Says:
June 5th, 2011 at 7:57 pm
KLESKO!!!
123
Steve Says:
June 5th, 2011 at 8:05 pm
Keep the guesses coming.
124
Steve Says:
June 5th, 2011 at 8:32 pm
Shaping up like one of “those” Hudson starts. Hang on.
125
Walker Says:
June 5th, 2011 at 8:32 pm
Danny Bautista?

Tony Graffanino?

Please Please let it be Tony Graffanino (Sarcasm)
126
ham Says:
June 5th, 2011 at 8:46 pm
I don’t mind the Hudson starts. I mind the Uggla and the rest of the offense starts.
127
Leah Says:
June 5th, 2011 at 8:58 pm
Bobby V hates the Braves. This is going to be a miserable broadcast to listen to. He’s loving every minute.
128
Jo-Bu Says:
June 5th, 2011 at 8:59 pm
Another depressing start.
129
Leah Says:
June 5th, 2011 at 9:00 pm
Beltran hurt. Fantastic #chickendinner
130
Jo-Bu Says:
June 5th, 2011 at 9:01 pm
The ESPN broadcasters are like bandwagon fans: They always seem to get behind the team who’s leading.
131
Jo-Bu Says:
June 5th, 2011 at 9:03 pm
Where’s Chritian Martinez? I expect to see him any inning now.
132
Jo-Bu Says:
June 5th, 2011 at 9:23 pm
Anyone want to wager on when it will be before Fredi realizes that Huddy doesn’t have it tonight? Bobby 2.0.
133
Leah Says:
June 5th, 2011 at 9:35 pm
Sure hope we get to see more highlights of Jose Reyes.
134
Adam Says:
June 5th, 2011 at 9:51 pm
I muted the TV so I wouldn’t have to hear about Reyes. Now they show him every 5 seconds.

I’m going to bed early tonight.
135
john j Says:
June 5th, 2011 at 9:52 pm
Walker, #116, No disrespect for your opinions but I’ll only be convinced of the “World Series” comment if I see it happen. Then I’ll eat my words (if it does happen, I am betting that it is inspite of Uggla, not because of him). As I said, signing a .258 career hitter after he has a career year is silly plan to get to the series. Plenty of players are done on or before 31. Remember a young star named Andruw? Pretty much done at 31. Uggla had success against Braves but someone forgot about his strikeouts (150 per year), his inflated OBP as teams pitched around him, and the fact that the Braves had bigger issues like a shortage of quality, hard-hitting outfielders, Chipper’s health, a rookie at first, a rookie closer, no center fielder, etc. as the season opened). Also, see #116 for other reasons (like using your budget to keep young talent). I am betting it was a mistake to sign Uggla particularly for the years and the amount. I’ll be happy if I was/am wrong. Sorry, I just cannot agree. Right now, it appears, Uggla may be the most important thing keeping the Braves out of the series!!
136
Nate Says:
June 5th, 2011 at 9:57 pm
Happy 150 ABT! Here’s to another 150! Keep on truckin.
137
Nate Says:
June 5th, 2011 at 10:05 pm
A 90′s Brave. Steve, you tease. I hope it’s McGriff. Cool dude. I think he’d be a great interview and an even better analyst.
138
Steve Says:
June 5th, 2011 at 10:38 pm
Now that it’s in the can, here’s the name: Mark Wohlers. Could not have been cooler and we cover all the stuff with him. The show will be up in 60 – 90 minutes.
139
Jo-Bu Says:
June 5th, 2011 at 10:51 pm
Diory??? Wow
140
Steve Says:
June 5th, 2011 at 10:55 pm
Yeah. And Diory crushed it.
141
Jo-Bu Says:
June 5th, 2011 at 10:58 pm
That was a great effort in the 9th but Fredi G is starting to wear on me. He can’t control the lack of hitting and the at ‘em balls but he doesn’t seem to know when to take a pitcher out. Granted I called for Martinez and he kicked the crap out of it tonight with the bases full but hey, he can usually eat up innings and keep runs from scoring. The way we’re not hitting lately three runs is nearly impossible to overcome. Bad Fredi, bad!
142
Jo-Bu Says:
June 5th, 2011 at 11:02 pm
On Diory. If you slug one that far back in those seats at that field, that’s huge power. Good for him. He was an automatic out earlier in the season. Maybe he’s getting used to being up here, now.

Show #149: A Hard Fought 4-1 Week. A Lapse to Start the New.

142 Responses to “Show #149: A Hard Fought 4-1 Week. A Lapse to Start the New.”

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