Show #158: Braves Make a Big Move at the Trade Deadline

August 01, 2011

Show #158: Braves Make a Big Move at the Trade Deadline

The Braves land Michael Bourn. The Braves trade for Michael Bourn. Did I mention we got Michael Bourn?

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213 Responses to “Show #158: Braves Make a Big Move at the Trade Deadline”

1
Nate Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 8:10 am
Good show guys. I know we lost yesterday, but the day absolutely felt like a total win. I’m really excited about the prospect of Bourn and his speed getting on base in front of Prado, Chipper, Mac, Freddie, and Uggla.

Curt, I remember hearing that stat on the sac flies. I think they said we had like 12 all year, at that point, and the next lowest by any other team in baseball was like 28. Sad. It just shows we’re doing a terrible job of manufacturing runs when guys get on base. It’s like every time we get someone on our guys are trying to hit a 2 or 3 run homer instead of putting the ball in play and having a solid AB.

I’m going full Steve, 5-1. Time for the young to realize they need to start owning their division like the Braves of the 90′s.
2
Steve Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 9:07 am
Drool over this … http://espn.go.com/blog/sweetspot/post/_/id/14409/bourn-a-more-valuable-player-than-pence

Cant’ wait to listen to the show, guys. MICHAEL BOURN!
3
DAP Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 10:32 am
this might be slanderous, but my honest opinion on ed wade dealing with the phillies, is that he is sweet on them. i think some GM’s in the league just have better relationships with some teams than they do with others. is that wrong? well it certainly is annoying for fans of other NL teams, that the phillies can take their pick of top astros talent for lesser packages then other teams are offering, just because wade has some buddies in the philiies front office. whatever.
4
DAP Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 10:43 am
hunter pence is a better overall player than bourn, in my opinion, but bourn is a better fit for us. i hate that the phillies got pence, but long term, wren made the right move. he still has those big prospects he can trade for an impact player. i think this was the right thing, although it sucks that the phillies got better too.
5
Eric Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 11:32 am
So if the Braves go after an impact player in the offseason, who do we want it to be?
6
DAP Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 11:37 am
guys, if we are getting 12 hits and just 1 run, what we need is a power hitter, not a speedster. extra base hits is what we lacked.

but thats one game. we do need a table setter for the big dawgs in the lineup.

why get a right handed reliever when moylan is coming back?

because we dont know if he is coming back.
7
Bubdylan Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 11:47 am
Not understanding why some feel the Phillies gave up nothing for Pence. Yeah, low minors players are harder to predict, but that doesn’t strip them of their value as completely as some are making out.

Besides, “MLB Ready” minor league player seem almost as unsure a bet to me. Jo Jo Reyes. Kyle Davies. Brandon Jones. (And coming soon: Jordan Schafer.)

High upside low minors guys seem about as bankable as low upside high minors guys. But “seeming is not being,” so maybe I can’t properly back that up.

However, nobody in the national sports media is dismissing the Philly package in any way because of their youth. Don’t you think there’s a reason that while we sit around and say “yeah, but they aren’t squat cuz they’re low minors guys,” the rest of the sports world sees definite value, and more value than the Braves package for Bourn?

CAC’s write up on the value of the respective trade packages is a good read, too.
8
Walker Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 12:36 pm
Great Show.

Unfortunately, I completely overrated Fredi Gonzalez as a smart baseball man. I give him credit because he got to where he is by having a great attitude and being a hard worker. He’s paid his dues and been at the right place at the right time. However, to put it simply I wish we just had a more intelligent manager. Fredi is so simple and unaware. No way a manger in 2011 is ignorant about how important OBP is. I refuse to believe it. batting Alex 2nd? Really?
9
Bubdylan Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 2:24 pm
Tonight’s Line Up:

1. Constanza
2. Alex Gonzalez
3. Brooks Conrad
4. Jason Heyward
5. Jair Jurrjens
6. Dan Uggla
7. Freddie Freeman
8. Michael Bourn
9. Martin Prado
10
Curt Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 2:36 pm
Is Minor a low upside high minors guy?

And Bub, weren’t you the one accusing Wade of collusion?

I just think so much of it is a crap shoot and from everything I have read, the braves offered a better
11
Curt Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 2:38 pm
Package for Pence. I’m happy with what we got, and as I noted, maybe we don’t even think about the Pence deal if those same players arrive in a trade with the Yankees.
12
Mark in Memphis Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 3:28 pm
@6

I disagree. Who’s spot woud he take? You probably put a powerhitter in 4th or 5th. None of the hits by a 4th or 5th batter being a double would have scored anyone.

1st – 1st & 3rd – 0 Out (double-single), Freeman drove in our run with a double play, Uggla singles (anything but HR doesn’t score run), Heyward flyout.

2nd – 1st & 2nd – 1 out (single-flyout-single – powerhitter not batting here), our pitcher couldn’t bunt and the lead-off hitter grounds out.

3rd – (2-3-4 outs)

4th – 1st & 3rd – 1 out (double-out-single – powerhitter not batting 7th), 8th hitter strikes out, pitcher grounds out

5th – 1st – 1 out (error – thrown out trying to advance, single), Freeman struck out, Uggla grounded out

6th – 1st & 2nd – 0 out (single-single – powerhitter probably not batting 6th or 7th), Gonzo pops out, Boscan strikes out, Chipper strikes out

7th – 1st – 0 out (single), Prado line-out double play. Freeman singles. Uggla pops out

8th – (6-7-8 out)

9th – Ross PH strikes out, Hinske PH flies out, Constanza singles, Prado grounds out

This was just an unlucky game. We didn’t string together hits, our pitcher didn’t get bunts down, we didn’t advance runners, we had a line-drive double play with no outs and our lead-off man on first, our leadoff man was safe at first on an error and just missed making third on the overthrow, etc., etc., etc….

But, if you have the speedster at the top of the order, when he gets on, pitchers know he leads the league in stolen bases and they have to think about him…
13
Mark in Memphis Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 3:40 pm
@6

Plus, there wasn’t a powerhitting CF available… Otherwise, where are you going to put a powerhitter?

If it is a corner outfielder, do you sssume Chipper isn’t returning?

Or when Chipper comes back, who do you bench, Prado or Heyward?

And you would still need a CF, unless you plan to put your hopes on a AAA outfielder or Schafer (if he can stay healthy) for the stretch and playoffs…

I don’t see you displacing Freeman or Uggla.

I don’t think you want to pay what it would take to aquire a powerhitting SS (and with Tyler Pastornicky doing well this year in AA and better in his first 12 games since being promoted to AAA, I don’t much see aquiring a SS in the Braves near future).
14
john j Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 3:49 pm
157-#501,

Thanks for ending 157 with your personal attack. Bub, you must be on the Braves payroll. Right? Personal friend of his? Why does someone have to agree with your observations? You go ahead and go position by position and give Wren all the credit. I personally look at his trades and find him to be average. Is that a crime? Yunel? Mclouth? Lowe’s paycheck? Giving away tex?
Giving away Frenchie?
15
Walker Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 3:59 pm
john J calm down. That was soooo last weeks post.
16
Mark in Memphis Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 4:00 pm
Back to an actual Braves discussion:

What do yo think about aquiring Aaron Miles from the Dodgers for the bench?
Mostly plays 2B & 3B, can play short (not too well), has played OF, but not much. Switch hitter that hits LHs well (.333/.343/.439/.782) and is no slouch against RHs (.291 .316 .341 .657).

Part time player that doesn’t hit for power, but seems more consistant than Lugo…
17
Mark in Memphis Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 4:01 pm
Think we might still pick up Infante? Or are the Marlins “done trading”?
18
Walker Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 4:12 pm
I actually think we need a right handed power hitting outfielder off the bench rather than a soft hitting infielder.
19
DAP Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 4:30 pm
#5 Eric, impact player in the offseason is a really good question. I really think SS is the most logical place to get a guy. This might sound funny, but I would love for the Braves to sign Jimmy Rollins. I think he could really improve this team, and really hurt the Phillies at the same time. Obviously, the price would need to be right, but I think it could possibly be a good sign.

That, or trade for one, like Stephen Drew, Asdrubal Cabrera, Johhny Pheralta, Alexi Ramierez, ect.

A decent hitting SS could make a big difference. If Pastornicky looks like he is ready, I don’t think any big moves need to be made. Cody Ross and Omar Infante might do it, along with replacing some bullpen arms.
20
Mark in Memphis Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 4:34 pm
@17

After thinking about it, I don’t think Infante clears waivers…

Too many teams were inquiring about him prior to deadline… Pirates, Giants, et. al. are below us in the standings…
21
DAP Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 4:36 pm
#8 Walker “No way a manger in 2011 is ignorant about how important OBP is. I refuse to believe it.”

i do to. i think freddi, like bobby, is smarter than he will let you think he is.

that said, batting gonzo 2nd is awful. in fact, he should probably be benched part time. let him split duties with lugo.
22
Bubdylan Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 4:44 pm
Curt, yeah, I was accusing Wade of collusion, and was clearly way off base as per usual.
23
Bubdylan Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 4:50 pm
john j, you’ve been at me personally as some kind of Wren disciple for over a week, so don’t complain of a personal attack when I fire back. In fact my appreciation for Wren has always been a mixed bag.
24
john j Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 4:55 pm
Walker, I just worry about Bub and want to make sure he takes his BP (blood pressure) medicine so nothing serious happens to him when someone doesn’t agree with him. Also, bugs me when someone takes a jab on last post of the week. To stay on track, Bourn trade was excellent as I mentioned earlier.

I still would like to add Right handed Wigginton (Rockies) if clearing waivers could be done. Plays everywere but P/C and a clubhouse leader. Would be an upgrade for backup at most positions to what Braves have on bench. He was available last week, don’t know about now.
25
Bubdylan Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 5:02 pm
Wasn’t trying to sneak in a last jab, john j. That’s just where the conversation was taking place. If I’d thought of it at all, I’d have figured you’d rather I do that than fire a fresh shot on a brand new comment section.
26
Bubdylan Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 5:08 pm
Also, my God, people disagree with me on here every week, and nobody shoots down my opinions more regularly than I do myself. I think you’ve gotten the wrong end of the stick about me. I’m clumsy in my wording and tone, but if I’m some kind of elitist with my views, it’s news to me. Hell, I can’t even keep the same view for more than three days. I’m not really used to anybody being pissed at my opinion because most folks laugh it off and wait for it to change, if they regard it at all. And the blood pressure checking goes both ways.
27
Bubdylan Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 5:30 pm
AAAAAAUUUGGGGHHHH. Carroll Rogers had my hopes up for a Proctor DFA, but now she thinks it might be Cantstandya that hits the bricks. Urgh. Maybe we’re waiting on Moylan.
28
Leah Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 5:34 pm
#14 Walker’s right. Last week’s (no pun intended) post AND I would have paid anyone to take Frenchy. Nothing personal (don’t want to offend in any way…at all).
29
Nate Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 5:42 pm
The sobering part of the Bourn trade is that this is how I felt when we got McLouth?

I think Wren has done an okay job. The Lowe/KK offseason wreaks of desperation to find pitching, and if any of you remember we couldn’t get anyone to sign with us. I think he overpaid on Lowe to keep the Mets from getting him, and we all know they would have overpaid. We were not the only club interested in KK, and there was decent buzz about him that offseason. If he gets any kind of run support, who knows, maybe things work out a little differently.

The Vazquez trade was fine with me. I’m excited about Arodys. Mike Dunn helped us get Uggla. Melky, like McLouth, didn’t play to his potential.

The McLouth trade seemed great at the time, and do some of you really think Charlie Morton had a future in Atlanta? Really? He may have Halladay’s mechanics, but Halladay he is not. Also, whatever happened to Gorkys Hernandez?

Wren gets a fail from me on his trades last July. I think Steve and Bub are the only 2 people who still like the Yunel trade, and the trade for Farnsworth and Ankiel only brought greatness in the ABT comment section with lines like “I think Ankiel just struck out in the on deck circle.”

The Uggla trade was great, Gave us what we needed.

I think the Bourn trade has been his most savvy move so far. He absolutely burned Houston and got exactly what we needed.

I think the sourness from fans on the trades and moves Wren has made comes from the players he signed/traded for not playing to their potential once they get to Atlanta. This seems to be a trend with the Braves. Let’s hope Bourn breaks that trend.
30
Nate Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 5:46 pm
In fairness to Ankiel and Farnsworth, they did play to their potential in Atlanta.
31
Bubdylan Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 5:47 pm
Nate, for the record, I think it’s obvious we lost out on major production with the Yunel trade. I have that trade in the category with Lowe and KK: iffy-to-bad, but necessary.

Tyler Pastornicky could change all that, though, to a straight win for Atlanta. Here’s hoping.
32
Nate Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 5:59 pm
I agree on Pasto. He has better intangibles than Yunel already. If he proves to be a solid fielder, then why not give him a shot this year. I’ve lost all faith in Gonzo.
33
Curt Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 6:04 pm
Bub, I’m not even suggesting you are wrong. We brought it up in the show. It just seems that if Pence was the #1 whatever available, the Astros could have held out for more, traded him for what has been described as a better package from the Braves, or held on to him. And the players the Astros got from the Oswalt and virtually non-entities. Maybe these two A prospects are the real deal. They just don’t help the Astros any time soon.

But some of that goes out the window with us getting Bourn for nothing. No offense to Jordan Schafer.
34
Nate Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 6:08 pm
I wouldn’t mind seeing us get Quentin for LF in the offseason, if Chipper does retire. (Move Prado to 3rd)

The absolute difference maker would be Kemp or Ethier, and those guys aren’t going anywhere.

In the ultimate iffiest of iffy scenarios, should El Hombre leave St. Louis, and they decide they need to start over, and we get rid of Lowe’s money, and Chipper retires, then Matt Holliday.

Alright, I’m done dreaming.
35
Nate Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 6:21 pm
or, should they decide it has to be either Holliday or Pujols because they can’t afford both and then need to shop Holliday…
36
Nate Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 6:23 pm
JJ is batting 8th.
37
Steve Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 7:15 pm
#36 – And it’s not Proctor DFA’d, but Linebrink to the DL. Arggghhhhhh. I hope Bourn can pitch, too.
38
Nate Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 7:24 pm
Can we go a week without putting someone on the DL?
39
Mark in Memphis Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 7:24 pm
@32

Because Gonzo is a streaky hitter who has shown he CAN handle major league hitting and CAN play a good shortstop whether he is hitting or not.

Tyler Pastornicky has shown, for 12 games, that he can handle AAA pitching. We have NO idea whether he would be intimidated by major league pitching, what he would do defensively should he slump at the plate and we can not risk that in a playoff run.
40
Nate Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 7:25 pm
The Uggla trade just keeps getting better and better.
41
Nate Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 7:31 pm
Mark, in all seriousness, I know he won’t get called up for this year. Most Braves spend at least a 1/2 a season in AAA before getting called up. Heyward is the only one I can remember ever making such a quick jump. But come on man, Gonza is really, really bad right now, and this bad streak is showing no signs of ending. 17 LOB IN A WEEK. I have to agree with what was said on the show, his glove does not outweigh what he does to the offense.
42
Mark in Memphis Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 7:45 pm
@41

You gonna play Julio?

Think his offense is going to outweigh his glove?

Want to bring back Diory? Same question…

Only chance you have is moving Prado to short and playing Brooks. Want that?

Just being realistic… Better the devil you know…
43
Mark in Memphis Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 7:46 pm
The only time I have seen Julio hit consistently well was from the 10th inning on…
44
Nate Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 7:52 pm
Other teams have shortstops. If not, then Gonzo.
45
Nate Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 7:56 pm
I just don’t see why you wouldn’t add Pastornicky when rosters expand. Let him get some pinch hits like Freddie did last year. Maybe let him start when you need to rest Gonzo.
46
Walker Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 8:00 pm
Pastornicky will definitely be a september call up along with Gartrell.
47
Walker Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 8:11 pm
I try so hard not to imagine the slow groundball to the shortstop right there but I couldn’t help it and it became reality.
48
Mark in Memphis Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 8:16 pm
@44

Yes, other teams have shortstops.

The Giants need a shortstop.

The Giants are below us in the standings and therefore will put a waiver claim on any decent shortstop that hits the wires.

So, NO SHORTSTOP FOR YOU!
49
Nate Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 8:17 pm
To give credit where credit is due, that was a fantastic play by Gonzo.
50
Mark in Memphis Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 8:18 pm
@45

I would definitely add Pastornicky when the rosters expand.

Sorry, I didn’t realize that “then why not give him a shot this year. I’ve lost all faith in Gonzo” in @32 meant a September call-up for a few pinch hit appearances. I thought you meant to replace Gonzo with him now. My bad…
51
Mark in Memphis Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 8:20 pm
@48

Can’t believe I made a Seinfeld reference… I never liked that show…
52
Mark in Memphis Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 8:21 pm
Ok. It is official. We NEED A FULL-TIME BUNTING COACH!!!
53
Nate Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 8:24 pm
#50,Honestly I felt that way about Freeman with Glaus last year, but we all know that didn’t happen. Freeman was way further along than Pasto, so it’s pretty much an automatic no on the possibility of Gonzo being replaced by Pasto. The Braves really have to get more creative with nick names.

It also would not be wise to throw a 21 year old into a starting gig facing the Giants and Lincecum in October.
54
Eric Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 8:26 pm
Just checked with Elias. Braves leading the universe in double plays.
55
Nate Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 8:26 pm
Rick Ankiel is crushing us.
56
Leah Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 8:31 pm
Enough…tired of loading the bases with nothing to show for it. Time to score some runs!
57
Nate Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 8:48 pm
That was strange decision by Uggla to airmail that into the 7th row.
58
Mark in Memphis Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 9:02 pm
Well, there was our three run homer… we just failed to get the first two batters on base…
59
Walker Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 9:04 pm
What is the disconnect with this offense? The starting pitching will regress in the 2nd half so our offense will have to win us this wild card. Honestly I don’t know why Hinske hasn’t been given left field full time.
60
Mark in Memphis Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 9:17 pm
@59

Because he doesn’t play well enough on a long term basis. When the opposing pitchers don’t see him everyday, they don’t know what to throw him to get him out.

Last time he played everyday for an extended period, they started throwing an off-speed pitch in a particular spot and regularly retiring him.

Not something you want your opponents to know about your best pinch hitter…
61
Mark in Memphis Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 9:19 pm
Speed does put pressure on the defense…
62
Mark in Memphis Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 9:21 pm
At this point, you begin to wonder if it is in their head…

Trying to do too much with runners in scoring position instead of just hitting…
63
Curt Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 9:22 pm
I’m so tired of the thing with the Nats and Livan. So tired.
64
john j Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 9:34 pm
Wow, a month ago we were looking for some offense from Uggla; now, he IS the offense.
65
Jo-Bu Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 9:39 pm
Of course the ball game always finds Gonzo in a critical sitation. True to form, he lines out.
66
Walker Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 9:39 pm
When is Chipper coming back?
67
john j Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 9:40 pm
JJ isn’t going to pull an Ubaldo on us (great first half and then you are done), is he?
68
Bubdylan Says:
August 1st, 2011 at 9:42 pm
Well, crap start to the Bourn era, but not that painful. It’s gonna be a fun team to watch starting soon.
69
Curt Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 12:10 am
Also tired of the Braves’ offense, or lack thereof.
70
Curt Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 7:52 am
Any concerns about the starting pitching going forward? If we start giving up 5 or 6 runs a game, we are in a lot of trouble. This has been going on since the break. I think we are now below .500 since then.
71
Leah Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 8:12 am
The Jordan Schafer era started out with a bang and we saw how that went. Very concerned about our chances. Totally deflated.
72
DAP Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 9:21 am
# 42 mark in memphis “You gonna play Julio?
Want to bring back Diory?”

yes and yes. do anything. gonzalez at the very least should be splitting time right now, even if its with julio lugo.
73
DAP Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 9:28 am
we need chipper and mccann back in the lineup bad.

and JJ has been a inconsistent since the all star break, but he ha had a couple of decent starts too. y’all didnt expect him to have an ERA under 2.00 for the season, did you?

the braves are in a little bit of trouble with the injuries, but they will be alright. just need to tighten up a bit. we will need a veteran like uggla to really step it up during this time…and so far he has done what he can.
74
Curt Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 9:37 am
An ERA of 6.26 since the break is a little more than inconsistent. That’s bad.
75
Kate Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 9:49 am
He gave up two HR to Ankiel. That’s as bad as you can get.
76
DAP Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 9:56 am
Curt, let me explain…4 starts since the break…first game he gave up 6 runs in 5 innings. i was there, and it was horrible (until we won the game in a walk off). second game he gave up 4 runs in 6 innings. not great like he has been, but thats not terrible. braves won that game. then, 7 innings 1 run vs. the pirates. great start. then, we had last night. 5 runs charged in 5 innings.

so, he hasnt been completely bad. inconsistent is a better way of putting it.
77
john j Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 10:54 am
Hoping McCann is back soon and at 100%. Even with Uggla as hot as can be offense sucks without Mac. Not betting Chipper will ever again be near 100%; we better get used to it.

One day 13 hits and next day 3 homers but not much to show for it. No small ball for Fredi’s team. How about manufacturing a run here and there? How about more focus on bunting, stealing, advancing a runner, hit-and-run, etc.? Too complicated for Fredi?

Would you want to be a position player batting 9th in NL? You’d be getting kidded the rest of your career.
78
Nate Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 12:38 pm
The Jayson Werth quote about JJ is a little alarming.
79
Nate Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 12:42 pm
The Big Four are all in Gwinnett. The International League is screwed.
80
Curt Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 12:45 pm
Teheran’s numbers in Gwinnett are video game-ish
81
Nate Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 12:50 pm
From Talking Chop:

The future for Arodys Vizcaino seems clear. The Braves moved him to a relief role several weeks ago, and they hope that he can help them out of the Atlanta bullpen down the stretch. I expect he’ll get called up at some point prior to the date that postseason rosters have to be set on August 31st. His upper-90′s heat could be huge for Atlanta as they drive towards the postseason.

Julio Teheran and Mike Minor are great insurance in case of injury to one of the starters in the Atlanta rotation. With the way Teheran has dominated triple-A at just 20-years-old (12-1, 1.90ERA, 1.073WHIP) I have to believe that the Braves will open up a spot in the Atlanta rotation this winter for the talented young Colombian. That still leaves Minor as an emergency starter and Delgado continuing to develop in 2012.

#80, so true.
82
Nate Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 1:01 pm
Lowe has +4.50 ERA and an OPP BA around .270. I am still dumbfounded by people who don’t believe Julio could at least replicate those numbers. We really should have unloaded him if really did have a chance to do so. Do people really think he is just going to flip a switch when September rolls around and be a dominant postseason ace? I would need to see at least 3 or 4 solid starts in a row from Derek to start believing in him again. Also, he has been impossible to move in past offseasons. How will this one be any different?
83
DAP Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 1:41 pm
82 Nate “Do people really think he [Lowe] is just going to flip a switch when September rolls around and be a dominant postseason ace?”

Its been known to happen.
84
Walker Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 3:13 pm
I love Chipper but this has to be his last year. He’s great when he’s healthy, but he too old and fragile for a playoff team to count on him. We get burned by his injuries every year.
85
Frigatedoc Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 4:26 pm
We NEED this win tonight……. Diamondbacks are RIGHT THERE……
86
Curt Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 4:33 pm
DAP, let me explain…4 starts since the break…

– first game he gave up 6 runs in 5 innings.
This, obviously, is not a quality start. ERA – 10.80

– second game he gave up 4 runs in 6 innings.
This too does not qualify as a quality start. ERA – 6.00

– (third game) 7 innings 1 run vs. the pirates. great start.
great start, indeed. ERA – 1.29

– fourth start. 5 runs charged in 5 innings.
his 3rd non-quality start in 4 post AS break starts. ERA – 9.00

Call it whatever you want.
87
Kate Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 5:25 pm
Gonzo is batting 5th in the lineup tonight. Wouldn’t be easier to just forfeit?
88
Nate Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 5:31 pm
That’s just terrible.
89
john j Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 6:37 pm
Nate, you are so right on Lowe. Braves should ask for NOTHING in return if they can find someone to take the remaining contract.
90
Mark in Memphis Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 8:22 pm
Well, it is about time for Lowe to make his yearly “change in his mechanics”…
91
Mark in Memphis Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 8:25 pm
How annoying…

The offense finally strings some hits together and the pitching can’t hit their spots…
92
Mark in Memphis Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 8:40 pm
8-3

See you folks tomorrow to see if we can keep from being swept…
93
Curt Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 8:47 pm
Troubling
94
john j Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 10:01 pm
Braves are going to have to eat Lowe’s contract and have him pitch long relief in lost causes. He has nothing. They should have given him away after he pitched a couple of decent games; let’s see, when would that have been? Someone mentioned Chipper changing his contract, Lowe should give his check to charity.
95
john j Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 10:14 pm
So, Fredi isn’t going to degrade anyone else and make them bat 9th? That is real leadership.

Looks like we have found a hitting rightfielder; one who doesn’t have premature star status.
96
Jo-Bu Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 10:20 pm
I guess the baseball gods really do have it out for us this year.
97
john j Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 10:22 pm
what is it now, a fourth of the payroll tied up in KK and Lowe (or, do you have to add McLouths salary to make it a fourth)? Good thing GMs are only responsible for the good transactions.
98
stacy c Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 10:35 pm
braves need to get rid of derek lowe,he give up too many runs walk too many batters. if the braves plan on making a run for the pennant they can not make it with derek lowe poor performance.braves manager need to have a meeting with the players,he is not being hard on the player,if a pitcher give up 4 to 5 runs in a inning you need to take that pitcher out you can not expect the team to come back late in the game to win,it bad for the fans to see a team play so poorly.i dont like watching the braves when derek lowe is pitching,i notice all the other player do not play their best when he is pitching.braves need to start playing like playoff contender baseball,they look at too many strike and then want to complain to the umpire no need to.freddy gonzales need to stop sittin back waiting to take a pitcher out when the other team have scored 4,5,6 runs in a inning that embarrrsing to watch.so i prepared a line up for the braves.michael bourn,martin prado,chipper jones,bryan mccain,freddy freeman,dan uggla,jason heyward,luis gonlaez,then the pitcher
99
Eric Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 10:47 pm
98 – Did Frank Wren run into your or make fun of your kid or something?
100
Frigatedoc Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 11:17 pm
Welcome to being 8 games back……..

BTW the guy pitching for Washington tomorrow pitched for like the first time in 100 years last time against the Mets and got hammered……..time for another “Cy Young” like performance against the Braves…

Ever notice that when an umpire does not call a 3rd strike our way the next pitch something bad happens?

Sorry for the doom and gloom…..but I have a horrible cough and feel terrible.

“I don’t drink cough syrup much, but when I do, I drink NyQuil.” “Stay thirsty my friends……..”
101
stacy c Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 11:51 pm
i bet frank wren sitting back whiching that he had traded derek lowe,hotdogs $3,drinks $4 derek lowe wasted money he is the weakes length. everybody need to stop looking at strikes go by and stop swinging at dirt balls,maybe we can win some games.
102
Nate Says:
August 2nd, 2011 at 11:59 pm
They should just shut down Lowe for a couple of starts and see if he can get his control back and mechanics back through mound sessions with McDowell, Ross, Mac, Medlen, whoever. He is just getting crushed right now, and the Braves aren’t really in a position where they can be taking a guaranteed loss 1 out of every 5 games. Just like we shouldn’t be spotting teams what feels like 9-12 outs every game with our lineup. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a team hit this many infield/foul territory pop ups or ground into as many DPs as these guys have in the past 10 games or so.
103
Nate Says:
August 3rd, 2011 at 12:02 am
Heyward has to step up. we need him to get in one of his hot streaks and stay in it.
104
Jo-Bu Says:
August 3rd, 2011 at 12:11 am
I’ve given up on Wayward this seaon. I just chulk it up to the league catching up to him — hence the sophomore slump.
105
Curt Says:
August 3rd, 2011 at 7:54 am
The Braves really needed the pitching to be great while McCann and Chipper were down. It has been anything but. The All Star break sure did screw this team up.
106
Curt Says:
August 3rd, 2011 at 7:58 am
Atlanta is batting .246 on the season with the bases loaded, and since July 25, Atlanta is 15-for-81 (.185) with runners in scoring position.

FAIL
107
Eric Says:
August 3rd, 2011 at 8:36 am
Uggla on Freeman via AJC:

“He’s a lot better hitter than I am so his [streak] will probably go on a lot longer than mine.”
108
Nate Says:
August 3rd, 2011 at 12:04 pm
How much do you think game time temperature plays a part in Lowe’s success? He was good last September, when it’s still hot but cooling down, and in the cold of October. He was great in April when it there was still a nip to the air. It seems like he’s progressively gotten worse as the Summer goes by. This is a great time for someone named Bub to come through with some Lowe data on cooler months vs hot.
109
Walker Says:
August 3rd, 2011 at 12:12 pm
I don’t know how the Braves expect Heyward to do well if he doesn’t play. Hell we threw Uggla out there everyday when he sucked. Way to ruin and alienate a future superstar. And Heyward will be a star. Good luck getting that hometown discount when he becomes a free agent.
110
Curt Says:
August 3rd, 2011 at 12:49 pm
Heyward certainly isn’t helping things, but those team numbers are atrocious. Almost unbelievably bad. Joe Simpson talks all the time about great hitters who take the approach that it is the pitcher in jeopardy when the bases are loaded. The Braves sure don’t seem to take that to heart. And just the fundamental stuff. The bunts and the sac flies. It’s beyond maddening.
111
Nate Says:
August 3rd, 2011 at 2:27 pm
Those are a lot better with MEN ON BASE. Finally.
112
Nate Says:
August 3rd, 2011 at 2:28 pm
The Freeman/Uggla hug post-Uggla homers is hysterical. Much better than the Uggla/Cody Ross kiss on the check they did in FL.
113
Nate Says:
August 3rd, 2011 at 2:38 pm
Here’s how the Phils and Braves have done against the NL East(before today’s games):

Phils- Nats 6-3, Mets 8-4, Marlins 9-3, Total 23-10
Braves- Nats 5-6, Mets 4-5, Marlins 6-3, Total 15-14
114
Nate Says:
August 3rd, 2011 at 2:39 pm
We’re 6-6 against each other
115
Nate Says:
August 3rd, 2011 at 2:58 pm
So frustrating.
116
Jo-Bu Says:
August 3rd, 2011 at 3:00 pm
If the Braves have a chance to win this game it will be despite Fredi Gonzales. He has no idea when a pitcher is piting into trouble. 6-4 Braves but for how long?
117
Jo-Bu Says:
August 3rd, 2011 at 3:03 pm
Yeah, Fredi takes the starting pitcher out once the big damage has been done. I know we’re still ahead by two runs but when you factor momentum in there, it can just kill you.

Bobby Cox 2.0.
118
john j Says:
August 3rd, 2011 at 4:13 pm
Remember that 6 game WC lead just a few days ago? Fredi seems to think it is still April and there is plenty of time to turn things around. He wants to experiment so he knows what to do when it really counts. Sorry, but I count Fredi as one of Wren’s screwups (Just an opinion).
119
Frigatedoc Says:
August 3rd, 2011 at 5:20 pm
After all of the frustration this year, there are some things that have never changed…

Death and taxes….

AND

O’Flaherty, Venters, and Kimbrel…….wow
120
Walker Says:
August 3rd, 2011 at 7:03 pm
John J, I have to agree with you on that one. Wren was so eager to have Fredi, that he didn’t even interview other candidates. Personally, I would have liked the Braves to sign some young 21st century whiz kid manager that knows what he’s doing.
121
stacy c Says:
August 4th, 2011 at 1:29 am
I THINK FREDI NEED TO SEND DEREK LOWE TO THE BULLPEN TO DO RELIEF UNTIL HE CAN PROVE HE IS GOOD ENOUGH TO COME BACK TO THE STARTING ROTATION,HE IS JUST TRYING TO AIM HIS PITCHES AND HOPE THY ARE STRIKES,I ALSO THINK FREDI GONLAEZ NEED TO BE EVALUATED FOR HIS POOR COACHING HE NEED TO WORK ON TEAM BUNTING TECHNIQUE,CRACK DOWN HARD ON PLAYERS WHEN THEY LEAVE ALL THOSE RUNNERS ON BASES IN SCORING POSITIONS,ALSO THIRD BASE COACH HAD MADE A COUPLE BAD DECISION WHEN A RUNNER TRY TO TAKE EXTRA BASES AND GET THROW OUT ,SOMETIMES HE HOLD RUNNERS ON BASE WHEN HE SHOULD LET THEM GO,ALSO LOT OF THE GUYS ARE NOT HUSTLING WHEN THEY RUN TO FIRST BASE,YOU SHOULD HUSTLE DOWN THAT LINE NO MATTER WHERE THE BALL IS HIT. ONLY WAY TO MAKE IT BACK TO THE CHAMPIONSHIP IS YOU GOT TO PLAY LIKE CHAMPIONS TOGETHER,GIVE THE FANS WHAT THEY COME TO THE BALL GAME FOR WE MISS CHIPPER AND BRIAN IN THE LINE UP BAD,JOHN SHEHOLZ NEED TO EVALUATE FRANK WREN DECISION ON SOME OF THE PLAYERS.
122
Danny Says:
August 4th, 2011 at 6:10 am
I’ve been saying it all year, Dan Uggla is the best player in the league!
123
Nate Says:
August 4th, 2011 at 11:21 am
Does anyone know if Uggla got player of the month for July, and if not, then who did?
124
ham Says:
August 4th, 2011 at 11:56 am
Emilio Bonifacio was NL Player of the Month for July. Uggla will be MVP!
125
Anne Says:
August 4th, 2011 at 2:43 pm
Darn. I was hoping it’d be Uggla, too, so that he and Freddie F. would both be on the same team with Player of the Month statuses (rookie/regular player). I bet that’s rare.
126
john j Says:
August 4th, 2011 at 4:15 pm
Stacy #121, You have to realize that playing a 3 hour game where you have to maybe field 4 or 5 balls on defense and then having to run to first base maybe 2 or 3 times a game is very tiring. It is particularly hard for the guys who were on the town the night before. The pay is terrible too so don’t you think it is asking a lot for a player to keep his head in the game and hustle at all times?

Obviously, I agree with you!
127
Mark in Memphis Says:
August 4th, 2011 at 5:10 pm
@104

It appears that Heyward’s difficulties stem from changes in his swing while his shoulder was hurting and now that the shoulder isn’t hurting, the swing has not returned to what it was…

He CAN get it back, but working on mechanics is REALLY tough at the major league level.

However, we are better off with a 70% to 80% Heyward than we are without him.

I think the best thing they could do for him (assuming they don’t send him down) is sit him against left handers… at least against tough lefties…

He has some really good at bats that give some hope, he is just not consistant with it so far…
128
Jason Heyward Says:
August 4th, 2011 at 8:28 pm
Heyward’s batting average dip is primarily caused by a drop in his BABIP from .335 to .247, suggesting that when he hits the ball into play, some combination of bad luck and less-solid contact (relative to last year) is causing fewer balls to drop in for hits.

Meanwhile, his on-base skills have further diminished due to a 4% decrease in his walk rate (a .040 difference in OBP), which is caused by a more aggressive approach at the plate – Heyward is swinging at more pitches both inside and outside the strike zone and missing more often. The fact that this decrease corresponds with a team-wide decrease in on-base percentage suggests that the problem may lie with the coaching staff, not the player himself.

Fortunately, luck tends to regress back to the mean, and some of Heyward’s other peripherals show promise, including his power and strike-out numbers. While Heyward is having some troubles this year, it’s far too early to give up on him.
129
Jason Heyward Says:
August 4th, 2011 at 8:29 pm
http://www.rantsports.com/atlanta-braves/2011/08/03/how-has-jose-constanza-taken-jason-heywards-job/
130
ham Says:
August 4th, 2011 at 10:15 pm
It’s so exciting that Jason Heyward has joined us (US!) on the comments board.

How’s the thumb?
131
Curt Says:
August 4th, 2011 at 11:12 pm
Apparently well enough to copy his fantasy outlook
132
Nate Says:
August 4th, 2011 at 11:17 pm
I guess it’s bad luck that major league infielders can handle your everyday ground ball and pop up.
133
Jason Heyward Says:
August 4th, 2011 at 11:27 pm
@ 130

That’s irrelevant to the conversation.
134
Frigatedoc Says:
August 5th, 2011 at 8:04 am
@ 133………….. HA HA HA HA HA classic………

I for one CAN’T wait until the late season call ups from AAA. Guys in Gwinett are killing it!

I should make “Pastornicky for Short Stop” bumper stickers
135
Eric Says:
August 5th, 2011 at 8:10 am
A buddy sent me an email about Jason Heyward. Thought it was worth a read:

“I guess it’s just the curse of the ultra-talented. Average fans don’t understand how hard baseball is, how easy it is to fail, the thinness of the line that separates it from success — and how other-end-of the-bell-curve it is that he’s up and productive at all at his age. And it’s so easy for even the educated follower to forget how erosive injuries can be. A hitter’s margin of error is sooooo small — a tweaked quad, a honkin’ elbow, a weak ankle, a compensatory move here, a 2% reduction in bat speed there, an angry girlfriend and I don’t know how they ever hit the ball at all, ever, even healthy, happy, on steroids and 5 Hour Energy, which is God’s Juice of Love for us. I mean it. Hitting a hard-thrown baseball is scary as hell and really really really hard. (I just inserted third “really” there on the re-read, so you’d know I meant it.) And with movement and deception and changing speeds.”
136
john j Says:
August 5th, 2011 at 5:59 pm
#130,

I think I know where THIS Jason Heyward’s thumb is!
137
john j Says:
August 5th, 2011 at 6:21 pm
I know that some of you don’t care for him, but, Frenchie is having a very decent year. .271, 14, 63. .327 vs lefties and .321 late/close. Could someone remind me of what we got for him? He could play on my team.
138
john j Says:
August 5th, 2011 at 6:37 pm
Yunel: .304, 10, 40. .384 OBP, 28 years old from Cuba. Sure glad Braves didn’t wait to help this guy grow up. What a pain he turned out to be.

Forgive me, just in one of those “what if” moods.
139
Anne Says:
August 5th, 2011 at 7:49 pm
Hey, look: a sac fly! Thanks, MBourn!
140
Steve Says:
August 5th, 2011 at 8:11 pm
#137 – we got Ryan Church for Frenchie. It was a total trade of one team’s disappointment for another
141
Anne Says:
August 5th, 2011 at 8:14 pm
Just started watching…why are the Mets “Los Mets” tonight??
142
Steve Says:
August 5th, 2011 at 8:29 pm
Hey Anne. Haven’t heard specifically, but I bet it’s Latin American heritage night or something like that.
143
Anne Says:
August 5th, 2011 at 8:31 pm
Los Idioticos
144
Walker Says:
August 5th, 2011 at 9:08 pm
Jose Constanza > Nate McLouth
145
Walker Says:
August 5th, 2011 at 9:15 pm
@138

Yunel Escobar trade definitely will go down as one of the worst in Braves history. An issue of not understanding someone is not a reason to trade him. This guy will be an All Star next year. It’s not everyday you come across a young shortstop who hits for average and get on base.

Another note—- we need to get Prado going. Just saw his average was .271. The infield hit is a good start.
146
Walker Says:
August 5th, 2011 at 9:28 pm
I’ve never seen anybody take so long to throw a pitch.
147
Steve Says:
August 5th, 2011 at 9:29 pm
#146 – the dude is STRUGGLING really bad.
148
Danny Says:
August 5th, 2011 at 9:30 pm
Hitting streaks are FUN!
149
Danny Says:
August 5th, 2011 at 9:31 pm
Bases loaded with the Gonz at bat. Surprise.
150
Steve Says:
August 5th, 2011 at 9:32 pm
Same result for Gonzo, but at least it wasn’t as ugly an at-bat as he typically puts up.
151
Steve Says:
August 5th, 2011 at 9:59 pm
Great win. Order is restored for a night.
152
Kate Says:
August 5th, 2011 at 10:06 pm
If Pastornicky pans out the Yunel trade won’t look so bad.
153
Jo-Bu Says:
August 5th, 2011 at 10:50 pm
Yunel Escobar trade worst in Braves history? I don’t think so, and at the time, he needed to go. Hind site is 20/20 but I’m glad he’s gone.
154
Walker Says:
August 5th, 2011 at 11:13 pm
I said one of the worst. My sight was 20/20 the day the trade went down.
155
Frigatedoc Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 12:40 am
Looks like Mccloth is out for the season….
156
Nate Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 1:06 am
#152, Yeah, if he hits .300 and is our most clutch hitter for 2 years. Do you guys just ignore 2007-09, because if you do, then yeah, I hate Yunel, but if you watched the Braves from 07(late)-09 you realize Yunel was more clutch than McCann. That’s just the way it was. Go back and watch some games. Gonzo sucks compared to Yunel. Fact. People didn’t like Yunel for reasons other than baseball. This is the South. These are the Braves. There I said it. If he threw his bat half as much as Gonzo did he’d be considered a menace by ATL fans. It’s an absolute double standard. Cue the Steve, Yunel tried to murder Glaus and he’s a jerk post, which is based on no fact but reporter bs.
157
Nate Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 1:10 am
Atlanta, the city that hates good players for strange reasons and then wonders why they can’t win a championship.
158
Nate Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 1:14 am
How can you guys say I’m glad he’s gone? How? Are u in the clubhouse? do u know what effect it had? U guys spew stuff like it’s fact when it’s speculative bs. And then when we add our opinions, that differ from yours, you act like we’re from Mars and we have no idea what’s going on? do u? do u actually know these guys? come on folks… you people know absolutely nothing on yunel. face it.
159
Jo-Bu Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 8:22 am
Nate, why are you so seemingly obsessed that folks agree with your opinion? Just say what you have to say and move on. It’s that simple.

I can’t help it that you and apparently others, might not don’t remember (or choose not) how he didn’t run out balls at times, called out the official scorer on errors from the field, nearly got Troy Glaus’ wrist broke on a lazy lollipop throw from short to first, would at times only talk to the press when things were going good and in general not playing ball the Braves-way. Yunel looked like he wasn’t happy, didn’t want to be there, so we moved him. It all worked out in my opinon.

As far as wondering why we can’t win a championship these days? In sport the best team does not always win. Championships are won by the team that’s playing the best ball at the time. That is why once you get into the post season all bets are off and is the reason why it’s not surprising that the wildcard team has just as much a chance to win it all over the team with the best record from the regular season.
160
Leah Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 9:45 am
Mercy…when did the board get so personally condescending? Please, for the love of baseball…we’re cheering for the same team!
161
john j Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 1:07 pm
Yunel trade was ONE of the worst. Period! A GM’s foresight has to be even better than his hindsight. Everyone can see the past (not necessarily clearly). One trade doesn’t make a career but let’s face it, this one was a mistake and we are paying for it almost daily.
162
Eric Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 1:18 pm
We get it. You don’t like Frank Wren. Repeating it everyday doesn’t make it more persuasive or interesting.
163
Jo-Bu Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 2:56 pm
I mean, if you wanna get on Frank, you can probably cite the Derek Lowe deal. Not on Derek’s dismal performance but on the risky huge salary over so many years that might have very well kept us from acquiring another few pieces with that money.

But I think just like Greg Maddux thinks on deals, trades, and contract extensions: You get paid based upon what you’ve done in the recent past, not what you are going to do. GM’s don’t, and of fans don’t when the player doesn’t perform to the consistency we paid for. But how else can one assess a player’s value other than what they have done in the past? The sad fact is, we got sattled with D-Lowe for four seasons at 60 millian bucks in Derek’s declining years.

An then there’s the KK deal which some insiders say that the Braves never even laid eyes on before the offer. My opinon on KK is: He never could cope with playing at the Major League level and it got into his head. So much so, that he could no longer pitch at this level and now (it appears) at any American professional baseball level.
164
Anne Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 4:06 pm
Chipper back in the lineup tonight. So is Constanza, not Heyward. That’ll show ‘im.
165
Curt Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 4:24 pm
I personally hate the Yunel trade. Said it at the time. Still say it now. But how many times are we going to talk about it? I’m terrible about bringing up the Tex trade and the JD Drew trade, but none of it matters right now. It’s ancient history. Those trades were made, Lonnie Smith got deked, Otis was safe, the Twins cheated, Wohlers got beat on his 3rd best pitch. Whatever. It doesn’t matter any more. It’s all over with. I hate it, but let’s focus on the problems this team has scoring runners from 3rd. The pitching in the 2nd half, etc. We can’t keep having the Yunel conversation. Turns out, it won’t change anything.
166
Walker Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 4:58 pm
@164

“That’ll show ‘im.”

I don’t think he’s sucking on purpose. Actually this is very sad that we are benching him when he hasn’t had consistent at bat’s these last 3 days. The only solution for a player like Heyward is to keep playing him so he can work out of his slump. Otherwise don’t bench him and just send him to AAA. No need for him to be sitting on the bench. If he can’t hit lefties then keep throwing him out there against lefties. This guys our future, we have to work with him right now.
167
Jo-Bu Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 6:14 pm
I think we need to stay with the hot hand. We can’t play for the future right now if we expect any hope of making it to the playoffs and to the World Series.

Besides, “the South” or Braves fans needs some sort of an excuse that we didn’t make the post this season
168
Walker Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 8:03 pm
A player like Heyward either need to be playing everyday either at the majors or AAA. That’s the only way to improve.
169
john j Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 8:23 pm
#162, Eric, I don’t care for some of your posts either. There are a lot of less than original posts here; if you don’t like em, don’t read ‘em. Like it or not, a GM, like any other executive in any business, better get more decisions right then wrong.

Also, no crime in following ex-Braves careers.

Please send some more of your “original” thoughts so we can all enjoy. I particularly like it when you quote others and THEIR original thoughts.
170
Walker Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 9:22 pm
Hanson needs to get it together.
171
Leah Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 9:33 pm
6 year old just said, “I hate that apple” after Bay’s homer. Me too!
172
Steve Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 9:39 pm
Hanson looks downright dreadful tonight. Ugh. And now Turner’s 2 run homer. Wow.
173
Walker Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 9:40 pm
Wow he’s getting shelled. This is not Braves baseball.
174
Walker Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 9:51 pm
We need a right handed pinch hitter BAD.
175
Steve Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 9:53 pm
#174 – C’mon, Lugo is right handed! (kidding)
176
Nate Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 10:00 pm
Sorry if I was a jerk. I will put the Yunel trade in the religion and politics category. I apologize for beating the dead horse into pulp. Where has our starting pitching gone?
177
Nate Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 10:03 pm
Jo-bu, spare me, dude, seriously.
178
Anne Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 10:33 pm
The DBacks are also losing… (bright side)
179
Nate Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 10:37 pm
If I had to manage in a series against the Braves I would call up 3 guys from AAA to start each game. Then I would tell them to intentionally walk the first batter of each inning and balk twice before they throw anything decent to batter number 2.
180
Nate Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 10:52 pm
What is Fredi doing?
181
Leah Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 10:52 pm
Oh good…Proctor is warming up. Fantastic.
182
Leah Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 10:53 pm
Mets scored 9 runs in last 5 games. Score 9 tonight. Well that makes sense.
183
Steve Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 10:55 pm
This is really one of those infuriating games. Hating it right now.
184
Steve Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 11:00 pm
And guys … I know that we are all psychotic, passionate fans of the team. That’s why we’re here. But let’s please keep the personal attacks off the comments board. If you want to be ugly towards others, there’s plenty of room on DOB’s blog.
185
Nate Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 11:02 pm
I might be crazy, but I ain’t dumb!
186
Walker Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 11:04 pm
Off topic: Just found out Deion Sanders started the tomahawk chop. Interesting
187
Leah Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 11:10 pm
Oh good…rain. Please just call it.
188
Leah Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 11:10 pm
g’night ABT…can’t watch another minute.
189
john j Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 11:16 pm
Game was already gone but have to mention that Proctor just doesn’t look like an MLB pitcher. Let him get his inninings in Gwinnett and see if next year is better.
190
Steve Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 11:22 pm
#189 – Proctor has been a disaster since he came up this year. Every train wreck of an appearance I see and I’m sure it’ll be his last and yet, somehow, he remains.

How about the Uggla homer. A glimmer of hope in the 9th.
191
john j Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 11:28 pm
Uggla just got even with Heyward on BA. Betting he will pass Gonzo next and may very well pass Chipper. Uggla is hotter then anyone in MLB. How can anyone look so bad for 3 months? Has he always been so streaky?
192
Jo-Bu Says:
August 6th, 2011 at 11:52 pm
186: Welcome to the South.
193
Walker Says:
August 7th, 2011 at 12:38 am
@ 192

Thanks. I love your sarcasm.
194
Jo-Bu Says:
August 7th, 2011 at 2:33 am
What a mostly forgetable week of Braves baseball. It ought to make for a good show tonight. Hell, the way the Braves are rolling at this point we’ll be luck if we get in with the wildcard.
195
Kate Says:
August 7th, 2011 at 6:25 am
Is anyone else terrified that Tommy was topping out at about 91 mph last night? Is he hurt again?
196
Leah Says:
August 7th, 2011 at 9:03 am
#195 Terrified and probably.
197
Eric Says:
August 7th, 2011 at 9:17 am
Could be a good thing we didn’t move any of the major prospects if Hanson joins Jair on the DL.
198
Steve Says:
August 7th, 2011 at 9:29 am
#197 – apparently his shoulder is bothering him still. I do bet he goes on the DL before his next start. Hello Teheran.
199
Curt Says:
August 7th, 2011 at 9:59 am
Walker – to expand on the Deion thing, he didn’t actually invent the chop. The chop was a long time FSU crowd thing. When Deion started playing for the Braves, the fans started doing the chop in honor of him being a Seminole.

Man does the starting pitching suck.
200
Steve Says:
August 7th, 2011 at 10:35 am
Curt – great news. The Hawks were just sold. You can talk basketball on the show tonight.
201
Jo-Bu Says:
August 7th, 2011 at 10:56 am
200:

Too bad the Thrashers didn’t have as much luck. ASG never wanted a hockey team in the first place and therefore never invested in the community (with new ice rinks, etc like the other sunbelt teams did to grow the sport).

Good for the Hawks
202
Eric Says:
August 7th, 2011 at 10:58 am
#198 – Guy at the bar last night called Julio “The Capital.” Kinda hope that sticks.
203
Nate Says:
August 7th, 2011 at 11:29 am
#202, I like it.
204
Walker Says:
August 7th, 2011 at 1:42 pm
@ 199 Yeah I new that, I guess I should have been more specific in what I was saying.
205
Mark in Memphis Says:
August 7th, 2011 at 2:32 pm
@190

Well, Steve, that isn’t really fair.

Proctor pitched well in two or three games, getting our hopes up, then he became “a disaster”.

He has been more luck than good (see 19 inning game) when he has “looked effective”. The ONLY thing he has going for him is major league experience, which is probably what keeps him on the team. You just don’t know how a minor leaguer will react until he is there…

The thing that probably keeps Fredi “running him out there” is that Proctor has “done it before” (i.e. in baseball, you just never know when it will “click” for someone and they will get in a grove – it happened with Linebrink…to the extent you can call it a ‘grove’).
206
Leah Says:
August 7th, 2011 at 2:51 pm
Michael Bourn runs fast even in slow motion.
207
Curt Says:
August 7th, 2011 at 2:58 pm
Good for the fans of the Hawks, more importantly. Now it’s the Braves’ turn
208
Leah Says:
August 7th, 2011 at 4:10 pm
Pulling my hair out.
209
john j Says:
August 7th, 2011 at 4:15 pm
Win or lose today, the Braves look like a tired, lethargic team lacking in enthusiasm. Looks like Conrad’s biggest concern is how big of a wad he can put in his cheek; our high school team doesn’t stand there and look at strike three. They look evenly matched with the Mets.
210
Curt Says:
August 7th, 2011 at 5:00 pm
We’ll cover it tonight, but John J, I’m there with you. The mediocre play since the AS break has really left me wondering about this team. And it can’t all be attributed to the injuries, I’m afraid.

More on all that joy to come.
211
Anonymous Says:
August 7th, 2011 at 6:55 pm
New show tonight? huh? new show? tonight?
212
Leah Says:
August 7th, 2011 at 9:06 pm
Ok…I DO miss this..
http://atmlb.com/puffzs
213
Walker Says:
August 7th, 2011 at 9:51 pm
I don’t miss anything about Jeffrey.

Show #158: Braves Make a Big Move at the Trade Deadline

213 Responses to “Show #158: Braves Make a Big Move at the Trade Deadline”

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