Show #161: The Braves Deliver a Statement

1

Frigatedoc Says:
August 21st, 2011 at 11:31 pm

The Braves are 6.5 games back……would it be greedy to say that we could still win the East?

2

Anonymous Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 12:00 am

NO not at all. Home field advantage and not playing the Brewers in the first round are great reasons to catch the Phillies. We have 6 games left head to head.

3

Pure Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 1:26 am

According to CoolStandings.com, as of today Aug 21 here are the odds for the Braves:
5.1% chance of winning the Division
91.0 % of winning the wildcard
96.1% chance of making the playoffs

4

Jo-Bu Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 2:03 am

I just hope we’re not peaking too early. I hope we can maintain a steady course over the next two months by winning games in different ways.

I’ve said this before and it’s worth repeating. I think we would have won the WS last season if we were healthy. Even still with our bench playing last season we still gave the Giants all they could handle as I thought the NL West was pretty weak. But again, it’s all about who’s hot at that point of the year.

5

Walker Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 2:26 am

Great Show and Great no trade by Wren

Over his last four starts, Mike Minor is 3-0 with a 2.96 ERA and 28 strikeouts.

Carlos Beltran- On DL .244 0 HR 2 RBI

Oh and I disagree about Planet of the Apes. I thought it was really fun to watch. Great movie. The Help was also good. Captain America was the only bad movie I saw this summer.

6

Leah Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 10:03 am

I haven’t had a chance to listen yet but just have to say Walker, you haven seen Cars 2 have you?

7

DAP Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 10:29 am

guys, last year, chipper made a definitive statement that he was retiring. he has gone back and forth a few times.

i hope he does return next year, and i think he will, but his “definitive statement” about it doesnt meant hat much to me.

8

DAP Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 12:08 pm

jo-bu, i dont think we are peaking to early, i just think we are peaking again…at a really good time too.

the braves have played this well at several different points this season already. this is simply a continuation with a few new faces. this team, clearly, is capable of alot.

9

Steve Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 12:09 pm

#7 – Agreed. As I said on the show, I don’t think he wants to be questioned about it as they head to the post season.

10

Anne Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 1:07 pm

Pure – LOVE Comment #2!

11

Walker Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 2:46 pm

No I haven’t seen cars 2 yet. Just saw Rango and laughed the whole time.

12

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 3:27 pm

@1
@2
@4

I think the fact that we are close enough that the head-to-head games can give us a chance to win the NL East will help us not be “complacent” going into the playoffs (i.e. something to play for). I think I heard a quote from Charlie Manuel about that with the Phils having such a large lead on Atlanta (a week or so ago)…

13

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 3:35 pm

This just in:

Jered Weaver, a Scott Boras client, signed a deal w/ going to the free agent market.

There still may be hope for JJ yet (if we don’t trade him for something else we need)…

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/early-lead/post/jered-weaver-signs-85-million-deal-to-stay-with-los-angeles-angels/2011/08/22/gIQAINjrWJ_blog.html

14

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 3:36 pm

@13

Should have been “signed a deal w/o going to the free agent market”…

15

Steve Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 3:47 pm

#13 – JJ or Bourn.

16

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 4:11 pm

OBTW – something that was missed from the week…

The Braves actually hit well against a pitcher making his first major league start! HOW UNUSUAL!

17

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 4:28 pm

Talk about ridiculous:

Mentioned on today’s Baseball Today podcast:

Hitters are 11 for their last 101 w/ 53 strikeouts against Kimbrell
Hitters are 8 for their last 72 against Venters

18

Steve Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 4:38 pm

Heyward not starting tonight. And have you seen Constanza’s BA/OBP/SLG the past 6 games?: .176 .263 .176. And there’s a righty going for the Cubs. It wasn’t too early to get Mac in there yesterday to get used to catching Hudson again in prep for the playoffs. When is the team going to give Heyward that same chance. This is nuts.

19

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 5:46 pm

Talk about a turn-around (from a DOB article):

Uggla’s slugging percentage in his past 41 games is 152 points higher than his on-base-plus-slugging percentage in his first 41 games.

20

john j Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 7:46 pm

#18, Steve, u r absolutely right. A right hander should mean Heyward is in the game. As if he isn’t demoralized enough? Is Fredi trying to ruin the guy?

21

john j Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 7:48 pm

There is always a chance that Fredi doesn’t know right from left!

22

Jo-Bu Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 9:50 pm

Hayward fans just might see him as Georgie just rolled his ankle.

23

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 9:52 pm

SHAME ON YOU STEVE!

I can’t believe you put a hex on Georgie…

You got your wish. After rolling his ankle at that speed, I imagine Jason will be starting tomorrow, if not for two or three days…

24

Steve Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 10:18 pm

I stepped away for 30 minutes – holy hell! What happened? Description, please.

25

Leah Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 10:21 pm

#24 I didn’t see it but you will be tarred an feathered.

26

Adam Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 10:30 pm

Just a minor sprain. Nothing serious.

27

Steve Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 10:38 pm

It’s weird, really, because I was sticking the other ankle on my Constanza voodoo doll.

28

ham Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 10:39 pm

Georgie sprained his knee after slipping in the huge pool of bile that you have hosed him down with every week Steve. (Curt, since you don’t have a gall bladder, you are in the clear on this).

Actually, fluke play at first. I have to agree though that Heyward should definitely have started this game, without question. But now with Georgie out for a few games, this is his chance.

We are really firing on all cylinders now. JJ looks good. Great bullpen. Awesome power from our horses. Alex Gonzalez just striking out instead of hitting into DP’s (while playing stellar defense). I am insulted that we are only number 5 in the new Power Rankings (although I had not realized that the Brewers had won something like 23 of 25 – even more reason to win the East.)

29

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 10:51 pm

THE issue with Venters. He just walks TOO many…

30

Leah Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 11:00 pm

#28 makes me laugh

31

Steve Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 11:04 pm

#28 – If Georgie didn’t try to show off all the time by “running fast,” maybe he wouldn’t turn his ankle.

Great, great win tonight. Small ball and homers. And while JJ didn’t look great, it was an improvement over his last start. He’s heading in the right direction. AND, Kimbrel with the night off.

32

Steve Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 11:07 pm

Did you all see that Hanson only threw 10 pitches in his mound work today? Seems strange, right?

33

Walker Says:
August 22nd, 2011 at 11:49 pm

I hope Georgie gets well however with this huge wild card lead there is no excuse to not start Heyward and get him going again. Heyward in the lineup pushes Gonzalez down to the 8th spot and Heyward will be up in these RBI situations. Starting him everyday should at least make him halfway decent for the playoffs which is a huge bonus for us. I would be happy if he just hits .260 with pop from now on.

34

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 8:25 am

@33

Assuming that Heyward can best work out his problems by facing live pitching… Something that hasn’t worked so far…

As opposed to working w/ Larry and Chipper in the cage… in batting practice… off a tee… places where he isn’t pressured to perform while he figures it out…

From what Chipper said in an article, this may take a huge change of approach for Heyward. I hope he turns it around…

35

Leah Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 8:59 am

Great show. You guys make me laugh. I love the way the team is playing although the longer J-Hey struggles the more concerned I become. Do a lot of players slump during their sophomore year? Where’s Bub when ya need him.

36

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 10:34 am

@35

“a lot” is a relative term, but, yes… they do.

I think it can be attributed to a high level of talent can get you through the minor leagues and can get you through a year at the majors… however, major league teams have people who can do nothing but scout players. And when one team tries something that works on you (as a batter), you can bet the rest of the league will know about it soon and will do the same thing.

As for Heyward, there are some things going on to worry about:
line-drive percentage – 17.8 percent in 2010 to 13.9 percent in 2011
infield pop-ups – 8.4 percent to 24.7 percent
batting average on balls in play – .335 to .245 (some bad luck involved)
swinging at 44.8 percent of pitches overall, up from 39.4 percent last year
swinging at 28.7 percent out of the zone vs. last year 24.2 percent

He is hitting fewer line drives and more pop-ups and seems to have lost control of the strike zone (not my research or words – from an article).

The last part (“losing control of the strike zone”), I figure, is due to frustration with the rest; ironically, it is the one thing that has NOTHING to do with mechanics…

37

Eric Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 11:33 am

ESPN has Alex as the number one defensive infielder in all of baseball. They are basing that on the new defensive stats that I can’t claim to understand. But I think it may be worth having subpar offense at Short Stop if we get that kind of defense.

38

Curt Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 11:50 am

24.7 percent going for infield pop-ups is horrific. what a stat.

And Ham, the liver actually takes over some function for the missing gall bladder, so rest assured, I am still filled with bile.

For all the George LOVERS out there:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cUwSxqnRW-8

39

Walker Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 12:47 pm

@34 Facing live pitching consistently IS how a player improves.

40

Steve Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 1:02 pm

#38 – More missing gall bladder trivia!!!!

41

Frigatedoc Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 2:19 pm

@36 Mark, that was a great article by Mark Bradley @ AJC.com. I LOVE his comment about Bobby Valentine….

It is troubling for Heyward though…..

http://blogs.ajc.com/mark-bradley-blog/2011/08/23/whats-wrong-with-jason-heyward-its-a-blip-in-his-babip/

42

Frigatedoc Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 2:32 pm

And for Curt and Steve MORE GALLBLADDER

If your gallbladder has been removed, the bile moves from the liver straight to the bile duct and through to the small intestine. Since the bile has nowhere to be stored, this process happens continuously with the bile being released in a slow trickle.

LOL……now back to the Braves!

43

Steve Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 3:32 pm

#42 – Excellent stuff Frig, thanks. But, it leads me to believe that they messed something up with Curt’s procedure because it’s being released at a much faster rate than a slow trickle.

44

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 3:44 pm

@43

Maybe they put in an extra bile producer…

45

Frigatedoc Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 5:07 pm

For what it’s worth…..

Kelly Johnson was traded to the Blue Jays….

Good luck up there Kelly, eh?

46

Frigatedoc Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 5:09 pm

BTW……what a statement placing Heyward #8 BELOW Gonzalez….

Looking forward to see Minor pitch again!

47

Walker Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 5:41 pm

All I know is that Game 1 of he NLDS lineup better be:

Bourn
Prado
McCann
Uggla
Freeman
Chipper
Heyward
Gonzalez

48

Curt Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 7:23 pm

I call my new bile producer Alex Gonzalez

49

ham Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 8:18 pm

@47 amen

50

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 8:56 pm

@39

No, facing live pitching is how you either “stay sharp” or “show you can translate your off-field work to on-field execution”.

Fredi is doing with him just what he should. Jason works off the field for a few days, then he gets in the line up to see if he can translate his off-field work to on-field execution.

As soon as Jason shows signs of consistent improvement, he will get more playing time. Right now, he has not shown he deserves more playing time.

51

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 9:02 pm

Looked like ball 5 to me

52

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 9:05 pm

Well, even a blind pig will come up with an acorn every once in a while…

I hope it give him some confidence… (it was “an out” instead of “being out” in most every park but Wrigley)…

53

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 9:05 pm

But, with all due respect, you hit based on where you are at the time…

54

Walker Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 9:08 pm

DAMAGE!!! Grand Slam!!

This is the benefit with having someone with a little more pop in his bat. Love Constanza, but only as a pinch hitter and pinch runner.

55

Leah Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 10:25 pm

The bottom of the 7th is giving me heartburn. Hey, did anybody feel the quake today? I did…spooky.

56

john j Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 10:27 pm

what is Prado doing to deserve the number 2 spot in the lineup?

57

Walker Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 10:32 pm

Chipper just stopped running. I love how Joe Simpson and Glavine are analyzing his lack of hustle. If that had been anybody else.

58

Steve Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 10:34 pm

#55 – I saw news reports listing Atlanta as one of the cities that experienced the quake, but I felt nothing.

#56 – It has been a very inconsistent year for Prado for sure. But I always expect a quality at bat from him. Right or wrong.

59

Steve Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 10:35 pm

Not only 2 hits for Heyward, but both to the opposite field. Hopefully a good sign.

60

john j Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 10:37 pm

Good for Heyward. I don’t see anyone else hitting it out.

61

David Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 10:59 pm

PHEW!!! Great win!

62

Leah Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 11:01 pm

That was just plain good baseball.

63

Leah Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 11:01 pm

Ya know…without the errors.

64

Steve Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 11:08 pm

#63 – Funny.

But, you know what, it all worked out and is another flavor of win under the Braves belts. Nothing but good.

Giants down 4 – 0 in the 4th.

65

john j Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 11:09 pm

Chipper hot and Heyward coming around? Who would have thought?

66

Walker Says:
August 23rd, 2011 at 11:12 pm

Braves are playing their best baseball since 2003.

67

Anonymous Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 1:49 am

9.5 game lead

68

Anne Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 8:52 am

Good times all around. FINALLY listened to the show (Thanks, Curt!) Walter Banks is still workin’ the ushering gig…I think he’s in the section just behind the Braves on-deck circle. That guy should use some shade…I’d move up a section if I were him! Dude in my office was just saying at the coffee pot this morning that it’s so great to see Freddie Freeman doing so well, and pointed out (I’m sure it’s been said here before) that it’s so much like McCann/Francoeur where McCann stepped out of the shadow to be great…and now Freeman/Heyward, same thing.
Went to bed last night at 5-0 and was shocked but relieved to see 5-4. Whew! GO BRAVES…up with the hope meter!!

69

Frigatedoc Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 10:22 am

@66 I was JUST thinking the same thing…….

Ok everyone…..Fill in the blank:

This is the best Braves team since _________.

70

Anne Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 10:42 am

@69 – sliced bread?

I’ve been thinking of what Steve said about Chipper just saying he’s coming back to keep the media at bay as we head toward post-season. Maybe he wants to bookend his career with division titles (didn’t we win one in 1993)?

71

ham Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 12:02 pm

@69 – Good question. When was the last time we were at .600 this late in the season?

72

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 12:04 pm

Concerning the Kelly Johnson trade:

I wonder if the same person who helped Bautista with his mechanics might do the same thing for Kelly…

73

Frigatedoc Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 12:41 pm

If anyone cares……. This time in 2002 Smoltz had 45 saves and Kimbrel has 40 (and he is a rookie..wow)

I think I know the answer to this. Are the “September call ups” included in the Post season roster? I suppose they are elligible…… With that being said with all of our pitching, who stays and who goes? Delgado, Minor, Beachy? What kind of rotation? Does Lowe make the post season roster? (Of course he does!)

In the interview after the game last night with Heyward were the words “that is not relevant to the conversation” go through anyones head?

74

Frigatedoc Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 12:44 pm

ALSO……..sorry

Is anyone enjoying Tom Glavine in the booth as much as I am?

Amazing how he calls almost every pitch!

75

Steve Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 1:08 pm

#73 – Great stat about Smoltz vs. Kimbrel at this point. Love it.

-> You’ve got to be on the 25 man prior to Sept 1 to make the playoff roster (unless you’re an injury replacement and then the timing is irrelevant).

-> I’ve moved past the “that is not relevant to the conversation” stuff as my hatred of Constanza leaves room for nothing else.

76

Steve Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 1:09 pm

#74 – I am loving Glavine in the booth. I have since the beginning. Very knowledgeable. Doesn’t force anything and has a decent sense of humor.

77

David Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 1:11 pm

#69 — great question. Gotta be the best since 2003, right? That team had:

- 6 guys with 20+ HR (and 3 with 30+) (Javy, Giles, Sheffield, Castilla, Chipper, Andruw)
- 4 guys with 100+ RBI (Javy, Chipper, Andruw, Sheffield)
- 4 guys with .300+ batting average (Javy, Giles, Chipper, Sheffield)
- only 1 guy with 100+ Ks (Andruw)
- 3 guys with 14+ wins (Maddux, Ortiz, and a healthy Hampton)
- a closer with 55 saves (Smoltz)

That team also didn’t have the bullpen that this year’s team does, and the starting pitching, while good, wasn’t great — no starter had an ERA under 3.50, or even 3.80 for that matter.

So, this team is better — at least, more balanced — than 2003′s team, which seems to me to have been the last “great” Braves team. Better than last year’s team, even, which was too banged up to live up to its potential by the end of the season.

74 — I also really enjoy Tom Glavine’s announcing. He’s SOOOOO much better than Brian Jordan or Ron Gant during the game. Mark Lemke is also awful to listen to on the radio, and Jeff Treadway’s post-game comments are grating. Glavine’s the best ex-Brave-player who is now an announcer.

78

Steve Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 3:59 pm

I like Smoltz on MLB Network games a great deal, too.

79

Eric Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 4:13 pm

It seems I’m in the majority on this, but Glavine always strikes me as dry and boring. I like Smoltz the best of the former Braves.

80

Eric Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 4:13 pm

And by majority, I mean the opposite.

81

Curt Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 4:41 pm

They said last night that Moylan is eligible regardless of when he comes up because he has been on the DL for some time.

82

ham Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 4:56 pm

I think Smoltz tries too hard to be funny, and his jokes are just horrible. #takesonetoknowone.

83

Steve Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 5:03 pm

#82 – He’s not as jokey on the MLB Network and it works better there, imo.

84

Steve Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 5:03 pm

Phillies actually lost today. Time to make it 5.5 back tonight.

85

john j Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 5:08 pm

#74, I also enjoy Glavine and overall the whole Braves experience. Living in Colorado, I also watch a lot of Rockies games on TV. Braves fans are very fortunate as Rockies fans have to endure the most egotistical, self-centered non-stop talker in the history of baseball broadcasts with the former journeyman pitcher George Frazier; he now knows everything there is about the game and about every baseball player in the MLB and what they are doing right and wrong. He never comes up for air; it is like going to a ballgame or concert and having an expert sitting behind you who never shuts up.

Be thankful that the Braves announcers are a bit low key and don’t talk 100% of the time.

86

Frigatedoc Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 5:15 pm

@ 84

Steve….I was thinking the same thing. I still think we can win the East.

We are just as good as any other team ESPECIALLY the Red Sox and Yankees….. On all of the power ranking those two are always placed above the Braves. IMO they only do it because they are afraid of their fans…..

87

john j Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 5:25 pm

Here’s to Lowe making more progress and winning a couple of games. It will help his confidence and the team’s confidence in their number 4/5 starter before the playoffs. Can’t go to a five game playoff series with a likely loss. Right now he is at about $2 million a win! Would like to get that down to a more reasonable (cough, cough) million and a half per win by the end of Sept. Of course, 4 or 5 wins in October and all is forgiven.

88

Frigatedoc Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 5:44 pm

Looks like the Giants picked up Bell…. That is good because the Diamondbacks will not have him now.

Has anyone seen the “buzz” on Thome maybe going to the Phillies?

89

Walker Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 8:43 pm

Giants just claimed Bell to block him from going to Diamondbacks but they wont acquire him.

I really hope Lowe doesn’t lose this game for us.

90

john j Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 8:43 pm

Lowe is his usual self. .588 era and .342 BA last 5 starts. looks like those numbers may go up tonight.

91

john j Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 8:44 pm

Thats 5.88 era

92

john j Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 9:47 pm

Wow, is this CY Young pitching for the Cubs? At least they worked the counts in the 6th. Maybe Wells will be out of there soon.

93

Leah Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 10:35 pm

How about some D!

94

john j Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 10:44 pm

kudos to lowe. did his job

95

Leah Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 10:44 pm

Stupid errors.

96

Curt Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 10:49 pm

Heyward sure does seem to take a lot of strikes. And by strikes I mean pitches that are right down the middle. Got to get the bat off of your shoulder in that situation.

97

john j Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 10:54 pm

Is McCann running out of gas? .150 for August or just a bump in the road?

98

Walker Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 10:56 pm

@Curt

That pitch was on the outside corner.

99

Steve Says:
August 24th, 2011 at 11:11 pm

I was doing my fantasy football draft tonight and missed most of the game.

Did Lowe legitimately settle down after his rough inning? Did his sinker start to sink, etc?

100

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 10:35 am

@97

McCann was “locked in” prior to the injury. He didn’t come off the DL with the same “locked in” look and now he seems to be trying to “make it come back” (read -> pressing)…

101

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 10:43 am

@99

Lowe really didn’t have a “rough inning”, the defense did…

W/o the first of the two errors, Lowe gives up two runs in that inning instead of three…

W/o both errors, he throws about 15 – 20 fewer pitches in the inning…

Granted, if he doesn’t walk Colvin (2011 BA .138, OBP .198), Soriano hits a solo HR.

102

Steve Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 10:49 am

#101 – Thanks Mark. Great recap.

103

Leah Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 11:43 am

#99 Where are your priorities?

104

Jo-Bu Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 2:30 pm

Looks like B-Mac is back with a B-Mac-Attack! 3-0 Bravos!

105

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 3:00 pm

@104

Let’s let him do it for a couple of games first…

106

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 3:00 pm

Has the makings of a “back-and-forth-all-day” game…

107

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 3:03 pm

Now, basically a 0-0, 7 run game – like a AA, double header…

108

Frigatedoc Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 3:07 pm

So Hanson is on his way back to Atlanta to have his shoulder “looked at” again? Did they look at it the first time?

From a medical perspective guys, things do not look good for Tommy. (Not to insult anyones intelligence here). Recurring rotator cuff tendonitis usually reflects a deeper issue, maybe mechanical or related to a different part of the shoulder. I hope he does not have a tear….but all things point that way. My guess is that he is done for the season…..AND this is may hinder him in the long run. Too bad…..he sure was pitching great.

109

ham Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 3:21 pm

Alright, Gonzo. Just don’t hit into a DP. Anything but that.

110

ham Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 3:22 pm

Thank you!

111

Frigatedoc Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 3:25 pm

Gonzalez + Heyward + no outs + bases loaded = 0 runs scored

112

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 3:33 pm

@108

If it is a mechanical issue, maybe they can “remove” that pause that lets everyone run on him so successfully…

113

Jo-Bu Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 4:00 pm

@105

If it were Heyward or Gonzales (streaky), I’d say sure but Brian is pretty consistent and the only time he’s not really hitting is when he’s hurt or stereo vision is out of focus.

114

ham Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 4:03 pm

Is it me, or is it a toss-up between Gonzalez and Heyward in terms of who you want LEAST at the plate with men in scoring position.

115

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 4:32 pm

@104

Okay, two in the game is promising.

116

Frigatedoc Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 4:34 pm

I think Mccann can see again…….

117

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 4:35 pm

@114

I wish Chipper could convience Gonzalez to forget pulling everything (for power) and spray the ball from right center to left center…

If he hit in the .280′s with his glove, he would always have a job…

118

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 4:39 pm

So, could this be construed as one of those “didn’t have his best stuff, but kept the Braves in the game” or did Beachy pitch better than that?

119

Jo-Bu Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 4:42 pm

@114

I agree ham. Bother seem to come out of nowhere to knock one out of the park then they go back to sleep the next game.

120

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 4:46 pm

@119

Well, it does appear that Jason is having more “good at-bats with nothing to show for it” (like his line drive into the left field corner that the LF made a good play on – he is starting to hit the ball to all fields – will take time to be consistant with it – something Gonzalez doesn’t do)…

121

Jo-Bu Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 5:07 pm

@120

Yep, and when that happens it’s just a matter of time (you would hope) that they start droping for hits. With Gonzo, it’s always a pop up or a weak ground out.

122

Jo-Bu Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 5:08 pm

Speaking of which: Alex is at the plate now with Freddie on 1st via the HBP.

123

Jo-Bu Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 5:08 pm

LOL! True to form, he grounds into a DP. It’s not funny, really but you know what I mean

124

Jo-Bu Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 5:10 pm

Ooh, I think that’s the first hit batsman for Christian this season.

125

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 6:19 pm

@121

Well, “With Gonzo, it’s always a pop up or a weak ground out” is somewhat unfair to him as well. He is definitely a “streaky” hitter. He REALLY seems to hit well against the fish (who let him go)… And he will go into a tear where he will hit a home run every other game for a few, then it seems like he “tries to hit home runs” and then he goes into the tank a bit.

Would love to see him try to hit to all fields instead of pulling everything… Maybe “shorten up” on his bat with two strikes and just spray the ball…

Maybe seeing what Larry and Chipper are doing for Jason will “rub off” on him a little…

126

Walker Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 6:58 pm

Pretty cool the Yankees became the 1st team in history to hit 3 grand slams in one game today.

Ok now back to Braves talk.

127

john j Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 7:18 pm

125 121 ,

It isn’t fair to only mention Gonzo’s pop ups and weak ground balls. You have to recognize his hard ground balls that end in double plays or FC.

128

john j Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 7:20 pm

Just being wise guy in #127. Overall, I am happy with Gonzo defense and when he hits 8th in the order. I don’t like it when he is moved up in the lineup after a good game as he then reverts to not hitting.

129

Jo-Bu Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 10:53 pm

@128

I think it’s completely fair. If they’re hard hit at somebody, that’s a good thing.

130

Steve Says:
August 25th, 2011 at 11:09 pm

Bowman on McCann:

McCann said he hadn’t felt comfortable since coming off the DL. Said something clicked in the batting cage this morning. Hell yeah. (I added that last part)

131

Pure Says:
August 26th, 2011 at 1:52 am

Braves magic number is at 22.
http://www.cbssports.com/mlb/standings/wildcard
http://www.cbssports.com/mlb/standings/regular

132

Anne Says:
August 26th, 2011 at 9:06 am

If I missed this thread, forgive me. How has Moylan done in Gwinnett?

133

David Says:
August 26th, 2011 at 10:06 am

131:

Moylan after 2 appearances: 2 ip, 1 hit, 2 walks, 2 strikeouts, 1 wild pitch, 1.50 whip and 0.00 era

134

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 26th, 2011 at 10:13 am

I like the explaination about Moylan starting instead of relieving at Gwinnett…

They don’t want someone like Delgado throwing a no-no and have to come to him at the beginning of the 8th saying “Good game but sorry kid, got to take you out… Moylan needs to pitch”.

135

ham Says:
August 26th, 2011 at 10:55 am

So (like most of us East Coasters) I get to experience a Hurricane AND an Earthquake in the same week. (And I am not talking about Hockey and Soccer teams.) Where the F do I live? Is this the end of times?

136

Curt Says:
August 26th, 2011 at 11:14 am

yes

137

Steve Says:
August 26th, 2011 at 11:25 am

Ham – isn’t the hurricane supposed right on you guys Sunday night? You’re going to need to go out and buy a generator so you’ll be available to record the show.

138

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 26th, 2011 at 11:43 am

@136

Generator 2nd… Store up FOOD & WATER first!

139

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 26th, 2011 at 11:44 am

For all you Gonzo haters, you may hate next year as well…

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/814068-atlanta-braves-top-5-shortstops-who-could-replace-alex-gonzalez-in-2012#/articles/814068-atlanta-braves-top-5-shortstops-who-could-replace-alex-gonzalez-in-2012

140

Steve Says:
August 26th, 2011 at 1:38 pm

#137 – M in M, that’s where you’re wrong. The show is first. Sustenance is second. Priorities.

141

Steve Says:
August 26th, 2011 at 1:47 pm

Just read that NYC is shutting down mass transit at noon on Saturday. Can’t believe the 1pm game will be held.

142

Jo-Bu Says:
August 26th, 2011 at 2:10 pm

Sounds like it might be a rought Sunday on Lon-guy-land. Stay safe people.

143

ham Says:
August 26th, 2011 at 2:19 pm

Let’s see M in M says think about the family first and Steve says think about the show first. Who do I trust? Mark seems practical and fact driven and Steve is Steve. I need some time to decide.

Any chance that we beat the Mets so bad tonight that they just give us the series?

144

Steve Says:
August 26th, 2011 at 3:16 pm

Ham – look in to your heart.

So, they just officially cancelled Saturday, too. One freaking game this weekend! It’s like the stupid All Star Break again.

145

john j Says:
August 26th, 2011 at 4:23 pm

#138, thx for the link

146

Kate Says:
August 26th, 2011 at 5:30 pm

People actually prepare for hurricanes? I grew up in Florida and we just sit out on the porch and watch.

147

Mark in Memphis Says:
August 26th, 2011 at 6:04 pm

@144 – you are welcome

@138

Ammo for all you Gonzo haters, by the same author:

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/821641-atlanta-braves-7-reasons-team-should-upgrade-over-alex-gonzalez-in-2012

148

Steve Says:
August 26th, 2011 at 7:54 pm

Um… it’s insane that McCann is sitting tonight. Three straight days off after tonight’s game. I mean, Fredi had that information prior to making the lineup.

149

Walker Says:
August 26th, 2011 at 8:32 pm

Why does this game feel weird?

150

Steve Says:
August 26th, 2011 at 8:34 pm

#148 – Because we’re losing to the Mets.

151

Walker Says:
August 26th, 2011 at 8:37 pm

You’re probably right. I think Ross is in there because supposedly he has a better catching relationship with Hudson.

152

Steve Says:
August 26th, 2011 at 8:41 pm

#150 – I know, but Mac is a better player. Mac announces that he finally regained his swing yesterday and there’s 3 straight days off coming up. You start him.

153

Walker Says:
August 26th, 2011 at 8:46 pm

I completely agree

154

Danny Says:
August 26th, 2011 at 11:42 pm

I know Beachy and Minor are looking great, but I don’t like reading about any Braves visiting Dr. Andrews. Maybe I’m just extra bummed about how this weekend is looking after tonight.

155

Curt Says:
August 27th, 2011 at 12:49 am

Hanson has a small undersurface rotator cuff tear. The Braves said this condition is commonly found in pitchers’ shoulders and does not need to be repaired surgically. This latest exam also confirmed that his labrum and the remainder of his shoulder appeared to be structurally sound.

156

Curt Says:
August 27th, 2011 at 10:58 am

#143
Steve, was that a Miller’s Crossing reference?

157

Leah Says:
August 27th, 2011 at 6:26 pm

Hang on there Hammy! Hunker down!

158

Steve Says:
August 27th, 2011 at 10:11 pm

#155 – Hell yeah. I love a ton of Coen Bros. movies, but Miller’s Crossing may be my all time favorite. John Turturro never needed to make another movie in his life after that one because it was absolute perfection.

On an unrelated note, all this not playing baseball absolutely sucks.

159

Curt Says:
August 27th, 2011 at 11:03 pm

I, too, think that is the Coen Bros opus. Such an unflinching flick.

Finally saw Capt America. Not terrible.

160

ham Says:
August 28th, 2011 at 10:31 am

Miller’s Crossing in a landslide, and I really like most Coen Bros. movies (even Barton Fink).

Lots of rain and win, but really much ado about nothing… So far.

161

Leah Says:
August 28th, 2011 at 10:42 pm

I neeeeed baseball!

162

Anne Says:
September 3rd, 2011 at 9:16 pm

Diaz now that I’m in the parking lot????

Show #161: The Braves Deliver a Statement

162 Responses to “Show #161: The Braves Deliver a Statement”

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