Show #90: Reviewing the Braves’ Off Season Moves

January 10, 2010

Show #90: Reviewing the Braves’ Off Season Moves

What is the 2010 payroll? And looking at the team with the new acquisitions.

Show #90 [ 42:38 ] Play Now | Play in Popup | Download

233 Responses to “Show #90: Reviewing the Braves’ Off Season Moves”

1
Jurrjens4NLCY Says:
January 11th, 2010 at 12:18 am
Going to Vegas? FUN.

Assuming Peter Moylan and Melky Cabrera each make $3M (which is a stretch). Braves have $85,888,667 committed, before incentives. Assuming all incentives are met, it’s $90,488, 667.

So it’s not like the Braves are lying, or aren’t truthful, I just think they’re optimistic at all bonuses will be met.

Curt,

there is something I want you to read, (And I know I posted this before, but I REALLY want you to read it)

http://fewproudbrave.wordpress.com/2010/01/10/puttin-things-in-perspective/

I tried to put a positive spin on the Braves 2010. And I really want you to read it. (Have I said that enough?)

Also, LaRoche isn’t going to get want he wants and has stirred no interest at all, Did the Braves jump the gun on Glaus?

Hinske was on my wishlist and so was Saito, so I’m happy about that.

Glaus (in my mind) can hit 35 HRs, but that’s a huge “if” but he could.

“The Atlanta Ifs”

Priceless.
2
Will Says:
January 11th, 2010 at 5:49 am
I am worried, very very worried, about 2010. What if just half of the ifs go the other way?

KK is old. And small/underpowered. Hitters could figure him out in his MLB sophmore season. He could unravel.
Lowe comeback- nice to think so. Old. Chip on shoulder about contract, trade issue. Is he ultimately an immature guy hiding that his skills are fading by being petulant about Atlanta management, fans, the weather? Dials it in.
Chipper comeback – nice to think so. Fading skills, overpaid. Infinite stress loop when a realizes about b realizes about a realizes about b….
Glaus comeback – PED. Injuries. Inexperience…
Hudson – old.
Wagner – old.
McCann – explain why last year’s average season has to be an anomoly? Age, knees, eyes, you name it. Average in 2010.

We are halfway to suck, and moving fast.

Yikes. somebody slap me.
3
Steve Says:
January 11th, 2010 at 8:47 am
Jurrjens4NLCY: I’m just saying that, possibly, in the past, all the incentives, pro-rated options, etc. were not considered in the equation, to the dollar, as they have been this year. I think they brought all that stuff up to back everyone away from the 95MM dollar figure we all had in our heads. So, not a lie, but a manipulation of the truth.
4
Princess Leah Says:
January 11th, 2010 at 9:19 am
Last year did you guys say “if Diaz can have a stellar season” or “if Prado can prove himself a position player” (I DO hate you Hammy) or “if Javy can dominate”? I’m willing to be wrong but it just seems easier to predict the negative “ifs” than the positive.

Great show! Someone needs to warn Ballpark Frank that IF I see him in his ABT shirt I will rip it from his person.
Can we just call Glaus The Trojan?
5
Curt Says:
January 11th, 2010 at 2:41 pm
I don’t think we are trying to predict the negative “ifs.” I think we are trying to shine light on what is going on with the team. I know these past two shows have been pessimistic, thanks to Ham, but we are looking at the pieces fo the team and trying to get a feel for what is in front of us. The last year the Braves made the playoffs they used more than 20 rookies that season. I think if we had known that going in we never would have given them any shot. So, you never know. IF glaus has a good year it will be huge. With the potential that is there with this lineup (ifs be damned) it could be really dynamic. We felt that last year. So we will all hope that the glass is full and the front office is filled with geniuses and we tear through the season. But it really is a matter of ifs. Postive or negative, we have no idea.
6
Princess Leah Says:
January 11th, 2010 at 3:09 pm
I feel ya piglet. I thought this show, as opposed to the last one, is very positive. I was just trying to point out, unsuccessfully, that while some of the negative ifs are likely to come to fruition there are positive ifs we won’t even consider. Maybe that makes more sense or maybe not. I’ll play my “I’m a stay at home mom” card now.
7
Hammy Says:
January 11th, 2010 at 4:07 pm
I really think that, in my case, a lot of the pessimism comes from over-inflated expectations of what COULD have happened this offseason. I am sure that Eric Hinske is a very nice person and that his mother loves him and that he will do some good things this season, BUT he is not what I had hoped for. On the heels of the Vazquez salary dump, er, TRADE and the Glaus signing, the Hinske deal was a final dud. Maybe if I hadn’t had unrealistic expectations, I wouldn’t be so pessimistic about the moves.

And I am sorry, but I don’t think we are a better team than we were in the second half of last season. We have just as many ifs, but they are just older and iffier now.

Nevertheless, this is all positing. Let’s play baseball, dammit and really see what we are all about.
8
Anne Says:
January 11th, 2010 at 4:09 pm
McGwire admits steriod use. Please, god, tell us something we don’t already know. I assume the press release of the apology NOW was part of the plan when the Cards hired him to coach??
9
Curt Says:
January 11th, 2010 at 4:26 pm
Nothing more. If you thought you weren’t getting in the HOF before……

Watch also, with Pete Carroll finally decided to return to the NFL, as the house of cards that is the USC football program falls apart under NCAA investigations of Reggie Bush’s $500,000 house and Joe McKnight’s borrowed Range Rover land that program sharp penalties, possibly including vacating a national championship.
10
Jurrjens4NLCY Says:
January 11th, 2010 at 6:47 pm
. . .
11
Tcc Says:
January 11th, 2010 at 9:10 pm
Local news “tease” here was “and coming up, Mark McGwire makes a Startling announcement!! I threw up in my mouth on that one. Oh, maybe we were to be startled that he would actually own up to the juice use! Ok, I get it.

So, is he coming clean because he’s seen the error of his ways? Or because he wants a clean(er) slate before starting a new job in mlb? Or is it because he just saw Roberto Alomar not get in the HOF because he blew some spew in the umps mew?

Thanks for the show, guys. I appreciate the thoughts on the ifs. What if they have a great season…..yeah, Baby!!
12
Pollyanna Says:
January 11th, 2010 at 9:12 pm
Steve, Glaus will have a tremendous year, just you wait and see!
13
Mrs Hinske Says:
January 11th, 2010 at 9:15 pm
Hamilton..just you wait and see, young man! My little Eric will have a PERFECT year! Hrummmmph!
14
Princess Leah Says:
January 12th, 2010 at 11:34 am
I guess BD is in line at WalMart in T-town. Stay classy Bama. I’m sure he would LOVE my new name for Glaus.
15
Curt Says:
January 12th, 2010 at 5:57 pm
Heard an interview with Chipper this morning and it was interesting to hear how many times he said “if”
16
Tcc Says:
January 12th, 2010 at 7:08 pm
Here’s hoping our “ifs” don’t become “if onlys”
17
Bubdylan Says:
January 12th, 2010 at 7:15 pm
Classy? Well, originally Bama was gonna show the trophy at a local drug store where all the fans could throw asswipe into the trees in celebation, but a different school took that idea. 8)

Go Braaaaves.

In my mind, if boils down to mainly one IF: Troy Glaus. If he slugs, we’ll compete.
18
Bubdylan Says:
January 12th, 2010 at 7:22 pm
“… if boils down to…”

There’s a mysterious meaning there. Just keep digging.

(“if” is also the middle word in life. Hey, I should make a poem.)
19
Tcc Says:
January 12th, 2010 at 7:48 pm
if Glaus slugs
the Braves compete
and Heyward in the minors
will keep..
20
Princess Leah Says:
January 12th, 2010 at 9:55 pm
#17 is Hilarious. Serious props. Don’t tell the Rev.
21
Reverend Aubie Says:
January 12th, 2010 at 11:11 pm
What’s going on here?
22
Bubdylan Says:
January 12th, 2010 at 11:12 pm
Sir?
23
Reverend Aubie Says:
January 12th, 2010 at 11:13 pm
Is my Leah over here, laughing at Auburn?
24
Bubdylan Says:
January 12th, 2010 at 11:13 pm
Leah? Leah who?
25
Reverend Aubie Says:
January 12th, 2010 at 11:14 pm
Nevermind. Carry on.
26
Bubdylan Says:
January 12th, 2010 at 11:24 pm
*whew*
27
Jurrjens4NLCY Says:
January 13th, 2010 at 1:20 am
You people are weird.
28
Bubdylan Says:
January 13th, 2010 at 1:37 pm
(in my best Jeremy Irons voice): You have no idea.
29
Jurrjens4NLCY Says:
January 13th, 2010 at 1:59 pm
(In my best Eddie Murphy voice): HEY!
30
Princess Leah Says:
January 13th, 2010 at 4:17 pm
(in my best Fergie voice) I’m so 3008 you’re so 2000 and late.
31
Opie Taylor on Crack Says:
January 13th, 2010 at 5:40 pm
See, that’s what happens when you call me funny. I do something unfunny just to sabotage myself.

Troy ‘the Trojan’ Glaus homerun #’s; I want predictions. C’mon Steve, don’t let me down.

Glaus: 33
32
Jurrjens4NLCY Says:
January 13th, 2010 at 6:31 pm
Steve,

Braves payroll last year was technically 95M, but they only paid 90M of it. Were are good. Braves aren’t lying.
33
Jurrjens4NLCY Says:
January 13th, 2010 at 6:32 pm
Glaus:

29
34
Princess Leah Says:
January 13th, 2010 at 6:55 pm
Oh…that Jeremy Irons. I can hear it in my head now. The Trojan will hit 29.2 homers. .2 is for the “jump over the wall and rob a guy” type catches. I like to be specific.
35
Princess Leah Says:
January 13th, 2010 at 7:10 pm
Just for the record JJ’s comment didn’t come up on my computer until after I had posted mine. I’m convinced…it’s an ABT conspiracy. That’s my story and I’m stickin to it!
36
Steve Says:
January 13th, 2010 at 7:48 pm
Glaus 2010 HR total: 22

It’s a great question and one we’ll undoubtedly do in our predictions show right before the start of the season. Hopefully he just kills it in spring training and I feel comfortable raising that number.

JJ: yes, I read that too (the 5MM from Hudson’s insurance money). But do you think the 90MM spent included all of the incentives, pro-rated options, etc? I don’t. I again go back to this being the first year I’ve ever heard the FO mention stuff down to that detail. Which is why it is very suspect to me. I absolutely think they cut payroll this year.
37
Bubdylan Says:
January 13th, 2010 at 8:33 pm
Is it safe to assume that unless Glaus has a completely bad Spring, Bobby will definitely bat him 4th to start the year? I really like McCann in the 5 spot.
38
Hammy Says:
January 13th, 2010 at 10:58 pm
Bobby wants the JimmyHat to hit 4th, and unless something significant happens – that’s where he goes.

I don’t care how many homers he hits – I want him to play 135 games.
39
Bubdylan Says:
January 13th, 2010 at 11:05 pm
The JimmyHat. That’s messed up, Hammy.
40
MattChu Says:
January 13th, 2010 at 11:39 pm
Glaus will hit between 20 and 30 homers but if i remember correctly Glaus does’nt have that good of # against the NL EAST.He does have tower light power though so my official # would be 27 homers.
I predict Chipper will lead the team in homers,over 30 homers just have a feeling.He has added 25lbs of muscle this offseason so pushing 240 to 250
41
Bubdylan Says:
January 13th, 2010 at 11:43 pm
Last guy to add that much muscle was Jeff Francoeur. That’s terrible news about Chipper. What the crap? He’ll be sprained all over.
42
MattChu Says:
January 14th, 2010 at 1:49 pm
LOL that is true Bub but Francoeur was not a seasoned veteran like Chipper.I think the doubles he hit will turn into more homers and have more stamina late in the season with this added muscle now by no means do i have a crystal ball this could blow up in my face.Hell i have better than 50% chance of him making my predictions just in his knowledge and knowing the pitch count,personally i think the muscle increase was for bat speed more than power but that comes along with strength( i pray he want trip over a dirt ball playing third,egg in face LOL)
43
Bubdylan Says:
January 14th, 2010 at 1:58 pm
Yeah, I shouldn’t have compared Chipper to Francoeur on any level anyway. Bad Bub. Chipper’s a baseball beast and a hitting genius. He deserves a little trust.
44
Bubdylan Says:
January 14th, 2010 at 2:08 pm
LaRoche signed for one year to D-backs, 5-6 million.

Uh, Frank?
45
Princess Leah Says:
January 14th, 2010 at 3:04 pm
*very deep forever long sigh*
46
Tcc Says:
January 14th, 2010 at 4:27 pm
Argh!
47
Bubdylan Says:
January 14th, 2010 at 6:14 pm
If it’s true that LaRoche turned down 2/17 from the Giants before settling for this with the Dbacks, then his agent is a Moe Ronn. That makes at least two (Bay) top players burned by their own asking price this offseason. Frankly I hope the trend continues.

Though… would have been nice to have that defense and 2nd half pop of his at 1B, though I did always wonder about the hip.
48
Curt Says:
January 14th, 2010 at 8:18 pm
Even with his slow start, seems like there is a little less “if” with him than Glaus. Maybe 5-6 mill was out of the Braves price range too. Which would be very, very sad. I would have liked to have seen him back for a full season. You could see how excited and relaxed he was to be back in Atlanta. His asking price was way too much, but his settling price makes you wonder why Frank never called his people.

Chipper’s HR tally in my opinion will be 19.
49
Curt Says:
January 14th, 2010 at 8:40 pm
“Meanwhile, it’s believed the Braves still have interest in free-agent outfielder Johnny Damon, whose asking price has presumably dropped in recent weeks as the list of potential suitors has narrowed.”
50
Bubdylan Says:
January 14th, 2010 at 8:46 pm
Johnny Damon doesn’t excite me much at this point.
51
Bubdylan Says:
January 14th, 2010 at 8:49 pm
Maybe somebody can help me like the idea. What’s the argument for him sound like?
52
Curt Says:
January 14th, 2010 at 9:15 pm
Ask Steve…….
not interested in him either
53
Bubdylan Says:
January 14th, 2010 at 9:30 pm
Curt and I are in agreement. Well, it’s been a nice world. Hate to see it end.
54
Tcc Says:
January 14th, 2010 at 9:34 pm
Bub, Don’t jump! Not yet, anyhow. Things will feel better in the Spring..uh, no pun intended.
55
Princess Leah Says:
January 14th, 2010 at 9:37 pm
Bring on the Damon! Bring on somebody…anybody! Did you guys see that Tommy Glavin may consider thinking about forgiving wren etc and working with the Braves in some capacity? Ya know…if he retires. Cause he’s not ready to say that. But don’t get excited, he says all is not forgiven. I’m sorry but when did the men of baseball become such babies?
56
Tcc Says:
January 14th, 2010 at 9:44 pm
I’d love to see Glavine as part of the organization, and yes it would take some “manning up” on both sides.
57
Bubdylan Says:
January 14th, 2010 at 9:45 pm
Heh, not jumping, Tcc. I think my clever remark was too clever for its own good.

Wren to Glavine: Tell ya what, Tommy. If I let you throw one of your “fastballs” right at my head, will that even it up? Go ahead. Throw it now and I’ll come back tomorrow in time to dodge it.
58
Tcc Says:
January 14th, 2010 at 10:05 pm
Tommy throws….”low and outside”!!
59
Bubdylan Says:
January 15th, 2010 at 1:23 pm
“Don’t expect Johnny Damon to end up in Atlanta unless his asking price drops significantly. MLB.com’s Mark Bowman hears that the club isn’t likely to pursue Damon unless they can sign him for $1-2MM. One of Bowman’s sources says “it would take a miracle” for the Braves to sign the left fielder.” -MLBTR

The AJC sure does stoke a lot of cold ashes lately.
60
Anne Says:
January 15th, 2010 at 2:01 pm
Bub, cold ashes is all that’s left when looking and reading like USA Today.
61
Bubdylan Says:
January 15th, 2010 at 4:56 pm
You have a point.

After reading Bowman and MLBTR and the AJC for two offseasons now, I’d have to rank the AJC 3rd on figuring out where the Braves are heading. To their credit, DOB gets a lot of nice quotes.
62
Bubdylan Says:
January 15th, 2010 at 5:13 pm
Interesting how both LaRoche and Lowe made inflamatory comments this season against Wren and they both look silly for it now. I’m not saying Wren isn’t lousy with player relations, cuz he obviously is. But the former Misters “guess I should have hit .400″ and “it’s just a matter of when” are now Misters “guess I shouldn’t have asked for 3/10″ and “by WHEN I meant IF,” respectively.
63
Anne Says:
January 15th, 2010 at 6:09 pm
Clarification: I was referring to the print layout of the AJC and primarily their editorial content…not to the writers and bloggers of our beloved sports page.
64
Bubdylan Says:
January 15th, 2010 at 6:28 pm
Oh.

I knew that. 8)
65
Bubdylan Says:
January 15th, 2010 at 7:06 pm
O’Brien put out a blog about getting Glavine back. So much for that idea.

(damn I’m grumpy tonight. And it’s Friday.)
66
Curt Says:
January 15th, 2010 at 7:41 pm
Good to hear about Damon. Let him drag his knuckles for someone else. We have enough weak armed OFers for now.
67
Bubdylan Says:
January 15th, 2010 at 8:33 pm
… drag his knuckles … captain caveman … Curt, you’ve really hitting your stride.
68
Curt Says:
January 15th, 2010 at 10:19 pm
kind of a softball there
69
Jurrjens4NLCY Says:
January 15th, 2010 at 11:47 pm
JJ’s comment didn’t come up on my computer until after I had posted mine. I’m convinced…it’s an ABT conspiracy. That’s my story and I’m stickin to it!

You can say conspiracy. I think we are more think two characters in Dragonheart, when something happens to me, it happens to you. I’ll be the dragon, because it sounds like cool Asian nickname and you’ll be Dennis Quaid, because, well… you know.

Steve,

Where did you read that? I thought I wrote it. Damn!

I think Damon will have the same success as a Diaz/Cabrera platoon. However if Damon is signed for $2M, it is more economic to sign him.

VOTE FOR JJ! (No Bubdylan, Jair Jurrjens… [under breath] smart ass)

http://espn.go.com/mlb/

(Scroll to bottom for SN poll)
70
Jurrjens4NLCY Says:
January 15th, 2010 at 11:49 pm
Haha, I was comment number 69!
71
Bubdylan Says:
January 16th, 2010 at 12:02 am
Those ESPN polls break down geographically every time. Jurrjens leads in all the Southern states and in Michigan, where the Tigers are still crying.

It doesn’t matter, though. You could put “who’s the best pitcher between Maddux, Oliver Perez, and Miss Texas?” and it’d divide up by regions.
72
Jurrjens4NLCY Says:
January 16th, 2010 at 1:11 am
If Chipper retires in 2010, we got a problem.

2011 3B class sucks aside from A – Ram who has a 14M player option. I know the Cubs will not let him go without a fight. And if you’re thinking, “Hey! Lets move Prado to 3B and sign an elite 2B man” well that ain’t gunna happen because the best 2B is crappy too
73
Curt Says:
January 16th, 2010 at 9:21 am
Escobar to 3rd, Hernandez at SS. Or Infante at 3rd. Or Glaus at 3rd, Freeman at 1st.
74
Jurrjens4NLCY Says:
January 16th, 2010 at 11:33 am
Curt,

Diory? Nah, he should never be a starter. I like Escobar to 3rd, but not now, if he can still play D at SS, he’ll stay. Glaus won’t be on our team in 2011. And Infante shouldn’t start either.
75
Bubdylan Says:
January 16th, 2010 at 11:43 am
If Chipper retires in 2010, we’ve got money to solve the problem.
76
MattChu Says:
January 16th, 2010 at 12:23 pm
You know after hearing Tommy might join the Braves in some capacity this poses a thought.Greg”Mad Dog” Maddux joined the Cubs and could have done the samething with the Braves but opted to go to the bumbling fumbling Cubs.This is my question,when Mad Dog is inducteed into the Hall of Fame will he dawn a Braves cap or Cubs cap?
77
Princess Leah Says:
January 16th, 2010 at 12:31 pm
And who’s on 2nd????? Meadow.
78
Bubdylan Says:
January 16th, 2010 at 3:06 pm
MattChu, DOB did a pretty convincing job of explaining why Mad Dog will be in a Braves cap for sure. I just can’t remember what he said.

Of course, he also convinced me we were getting Griffey Jr. … and Jake Peavy … and … (not that either of those are a regret)
79
MattChu Says:
January 16th, 2010 at 3:42 pm
I remember that article but enlight of recent developments with his recent fascination with the cubs i am not totally convinced.In other words i dare not compare wits with Mr. Maddux he has always been class but done things to the beat of his on drum.This could be this decades shocker!Ole’ Maddux still keeping people guessing
80
Curt Says:
January 16th, 2010 at 7:23 pm
JJ, the fact that someone “should never be a starter” has never really been a problem with this version of the Braves. Scott Thorman? Anyone? I think Diory at SS with Escobar at 3rd is a very likely scenario.
81
Bubdylan Says:
January 16th, 2010 at 7:29 pm
Thorman was great. He just never quite found his … skill.
82
Bubdylan Says:
January 16th, 2010 at 10:26 pm
This Haiti stuff is awful. Just sayin’. So bad.
83
Curt Says:
January 16th, 2010 at 11:19 pm
Agreed Bub. We all need to be extra thankful for what we have and to say a prayer for those poor people and for all those there working on helping them recover.

For all ABTers – To give money to relief (if you haven’t already):
http://www.redcross.org/
84
Bubdylan Says:
January 17th, 2010 at 12:58 am
Thanks for the link, Curt. I just bookmarked it and also sent it to my sister. We both get school checks on Tuesday.
85
Jurrjens4NLCY Says:
January 17th, 2010 at 2:05 am
Not to plug myself, but I’m donating money for new followers on twitter:

http://twitter.com/Few_Proud_Brave/status/7856444567

Curt,

Scott Thorman wasn’t under FW. He wouldn’t settle for that crap.

Anyone wanna trade Teheran for Josh Vitters? I’d do it, maybe.
86
Princess Leah Says:
January 17th, 2010 at 2:46 pm
Ditto on the Haiti front. Praying for God’s perfect peace and infinate mercy. Sorry if that’s to preachy.
87
Bubdylan Says:
January 17th, 2010 at 4:01 pm
Five players I’m most looking forward to watching in the first weeks of the 2010 season:

Hanson
Wagner
Glaus
McCann
Escobar
88
Princess Leah Says:
January 17th, 2010 at 5:52 pm
Um…Bub? You forgot…Prado. I know it was a mental lapse.
89
Bubdylan Says:
January 17th, 2010 at 6:22 pm
I said “most looking forward to.” I also look forward to a half dozen other Braves. I did ALMOST put Prado, but he excites me just slightly less than those five. Sorry. I do believe in Prado, but it’s with that “I believe… help Thou mine unbelief” sort of faith.
90
Princess Leah Says:
January 17th, 2010 at 8:30 pm
http://sb.unixdude.net/2010baseballseason/
91
Tcc Says:
January 17th, 2010 at 8:42 pm
Thanks Leah..Go Braves!
92
Curt Says:
January 18th, 2010 at 12:33 am
Bub, for some reason I saw the first two names on your list and in my head it became

Honus
Wagner

I too would really be looking forward to that. Talk about pulling them off of the scrap heap.
93
Bubdylan Says:
January 18th, 2010 at 2:59 pm
We got Honus Wagner?? I knew Wren wouldn’t let us down. (At least we can be assured he’ll never swing at ball four…)
94
Bubdylan the Homerest Homer Says:
January 18th, 2010 at 3:25 pm
One thing I do like about the offseason proceedings: we’re still under the radar. (Cue Curt: “yeah, you know who else is under the radar? The Pirates.”)

We’re seen as a top 5 sleeper team, and that’s about it. If we’d gotten Holliday and kept Vazquez, we’d all over the print right now: Bobby’s Last Hurrah would be set in stone. Just like when Tex came we were in full steam Euphoria. Gosh, remember that? Renteria AND Chipper AND Tex AND Andruw? That was a sick line-up. Too bad the rotation was … sicker.

Anyways, I like it from a phychological standpoint. They’ve got just enough talent to compete, and not enough to be favored. Play Ball!
95
Tcc Says:
January 18th, 2010 at 3:41 pm
I think the Braves will continue to fly under the radar until we get new ownership that is literally “invested” in producing a pennant winner.
96
Bubdylan the Homerest Homer Says:
January 18th, 2010 at 3:44 pm
Oh YEAH??? Well, you can shut UP!!
97
Curt Says:
January 18th, 2010 at 3:52 pm
I heard we just signed Pie Trainer
98
Bubdylan the Homerest Homer Says:
January 18th, 2010 at 4:51 pm
Traynor, I think. But still funny…

(Tcc, you know I was being a clown, yeah?)
99
Curt Says:
January 18th, 2010 at 4:56 pm
Tris Speaker?
100
Kathryn Says:
January 18th, 2010 at 5:27 pm
Don’t know how many have already seen this but here are some videos of Hanson on MLB network. Scroll down to the second row of videos.

http://mlb.mlb.com/media/video.jsp?content_id=7149163&topic_id=7417714
101
Bubdylan the Homerest Homer Says:
January 18th, 2010 at 6:33 pm
Kathryn, that link dumped me somewhere else, but I’ve had that happen to me on mlb.com links before.

However, once I was there, I typed “Hanson” in the search engine and I got a 6+ minute interview with Tommy at Studio 42 or whatever it’s called and he was impressive like always. If Tommy’s arm stands up, he’s gonna be a beast for a long time. What a solid head that kid has on his shoulders.

Like his outfit, too.
102
Bubdylan the Homerest Homer Says:
January 18th, 2010 at 6:46 pm
Have you guys ever thought that a small ballpark does so much to add to a players numbers and confidence that it makes them better on the road?

And while you’re considering it, think about the ballparks of the two teams who just played in the WS. I know they had hitters that were just good. But, still…

Move the fences in!

Not really.

P.S. Re: Kathryn’s link, it works just fine. I’m just blind.
103
not shutting UP! Says:
January 18th, 2010 at 8:35 pm
Bub, being able to move the fences in or out reminds me how unique MLB is. No other sport can do that, right? I guess NASCAR could build tracks that would allow higher speeds or more wrecks, but I think that’s apples and oranges.

Bud Selig (AKA the worst commish ever) has put together an “action committee” to address issues and make changes in MLB. He won’t say what issues are being addressed, just that “there will be changes”. I think he is too gutless to make changes himself, hence the committee.

So, what are they talking about and what would you abt’ers want or not want? 5 vs 7 game playoff series? Longer vs shorter seasons? The return of doubleheaders? Olympic rules drug testing? BTW, BS says the steroid era is “over” so no need for further testing, I guess. What about the Holy Grail: The DH? Regulated field sizes?

My bet is that anything that could possibly have an adver$e effect on the players union just will not happen. period.

MLB needs change we can believe in. I say it starts with a new commish.
104
Princess Leah Says:
January 18th, 2010 at 9:11 pm
Baseball all year round or at least support groups for the super crazed. Do I hear salary cap?
105
Bubdylan Says:
January 18th, 2010 at 9:19 pm
Bring on the DH, I say.

I’m sorry, but it is dead obvious that pitchers can’t hit. So why bruise the grace of such an elegant sport by making them flail away like that? They simply got that one wrong in the original rules.

I know; more strategy. But, like I’ve said before, if you made somebody from the stands come down once a game and try to hit, that would cause more strategy, too. Or if you made the slugger hold the bat from the heavy end once a game, or allowed only two outfielders after the 8th inning; many things could make the managers work harder to figure out the best moves to make. That doesn’t make it a good thing.

Every hitter should have to field a position, because why? Does it really stretch the game completely out of shape to one big lug standing up there every day that all he does is hit? To me it that makes the most sense of all. One big bruiser who can’t can’t catch, can’t throw, none too bright, but he can make little ball go real real far. I love it.

Everybody loves a specialist. A LOOGY, for example. What if some pitcher, who can’t get a pitch past a right handed grandmother, can blow away lefties time after time. Don’t we love that stuff? It’s legendary.

I think the DH is a colorful, appropriate, perfect part of the AL game. I honestly think that this is one example of an afterthought being such an obvious fit that you have to say “well, tradition aside, this is what they should have done to begin with.”

The end.

Let’s have the DH.
106
Tcc Says:
January 18th, 2010 at 9:30 pm
So why stop with the DH? Football began with 11 guys playing both ways and now we have 11 on offense and the same number on D. Why not have an O and D for baseball too? A bunch of speedy guys with big hands on defense and a murderer’s row on offense?

I’ll take the traditional 9. No DH.
107
Bubdylan Says:
January 18th, 2010 at 9:34 pm
Actually, I think 9 offensive players and 9 defensive players using the rules of baseball would make a truly great game. The slickest fielders in the world. Every outfielder with a lazer arm and blazing speed. Spicy double plays three times a game.

And 9 DH-level hitters. POW!!! Matter of fact, 4 pinch runners for every team, too. That’s all they’d do; run for the hitters.

Ba-da-BING. Bring it on.

(I can’t tell if I’m being sarcastic or not. It actually sounds like a great game.)
108
Bubdylan Says:
January 18th, 2010 at 9:38 pm
But to answer your question, why stop with the DH? Because a pitcher hitting is the only truly fish-out-of-water element in the game. The only part of the game where an alien from Mars would watch it and say “this looks very awkward compared with the rest of the action.” And because the replacement for it, a DH hitter who can only hit, is to me very attractive idea that still fits perfectly within the baseball mythos.

Agree to disagree, I guess.
109
Bubdylan Says:
January 18th, 2010 at 9:40 pm
“a DH hitter who can only hit.”

That’s the most redundant thing I’ve ever said in my life. Says the same thing not twice, but THREE times.
110
Curt Says:
January 18th, 2010 at 10:19 pm
DH or not, it should be uniform for both leagues. Team with the best record should get home field throughout the playoffs. All-star game should be abolished if it is going to determine home field advantage for the WS. That is the dumbest rule in sports. More day games with possibly all weekend games being day games. I know the summer heat is bad in the south, but they need to get kids back interested in baseball. Earlier start times for playoff games, including some played during the day. At least on WS day game.

The reason the NFL works is because the players union is weak. The MLB players union is strangling baseball. As are owners who aren’t committed to fielding teams. There should be a minimum salary level too. All the luxury tax money should have to be spent on the team.
111
Bubdylan Says:
January 18th, 2010 at 10:37 pm
Amen on the All-star = WS Home Field stupidity. Too stupid for words.
112
PrintSays Leah Says:
January 18th, 2010 at 10:55 pm
“More day games with possibly all weekend games being day games. I know the summer heat is bad in the south, but they need to get kids back interested in baseball. Earlier start times for playoff games, including some played during the day.”
113
Bubdylan Says:
January 18th, 2010 at 10:58 pm
AWESOME!!!

I can sleep in peace now.
114
Bubdylan Says:
January 18th, 2010 at 11:00 pm
*that you used the pun-name… I meant.

CHECK, PLEASE!!
115
Princess Leah Says:
January 18th, 2010 at 11:11 pm
In the mail my friend.
116
Jurrjens4NLCY Says:
January 18th, 2010 at 11:57 pm
I think pitchers in the NL should get to bat with metal bats. It would make the game fun. And Zambrano could be the first person to win a MVP and a Cy Young award in the same year.

I’ll start a petition.
117
Anne Says:
January 19th, 2010 at 12:26 am
NICE, JJ. We’d get to hear that satisfying “Ping!!” that aluminum bats make…AND there’d be a heckuva lot less shattering wood everywhere…
118
Bubdylan Says:
January 19th, 2010 at 9:51 am
Over the line, says I.
119
MattChu Says:
January 19th, 2010 at 11:58 am
just curious, new to this site.How often do they put new commentary analysis on or the norm. show.With all this talk with Damon what are our chances of getting him for 1yr under 5mill.?
120
Princess Leah Says:
January 19th, 2010 at 12:01 pm
Uck…never agreed with Bubdylan more.
121
Princess Leah Says:
January 19th, 2010 at 12:46 pm
Mattchu…bless you! During the regular season it’s once a week. During the offseason it’s when we shamelessly beg like a bunch of babies.
122
Steve Says:
January 19th, 2010 at 3:32 pm
JJ – Keep to sports. And keep that kind of crap off of here. And please don’t try to respond or defend. It will only make it worse.

So, I’m back from Vegas. Great, great time. And I won a tremendous amount of money. Well, that’s not actually true. I actually lost a bunch of money. As it turns out, the casino’s seem to have some kind of distinct advantage.

And, to Curt’s point (and keeping with Vegas for a minute) another reason, I think, that baseball is losing popularity is that, compared to football (the daddy of them all) and basketball, it is the hardest to bet on. It’s all esoteric pay out odds (-300, +250, etc.) Believe me, that hurts the sport tremendously. I sat in the Las Vegas Hilton sports book for about 16 hours over the weekend betting on football and there were easily a thousand+ people making bets. That ain’t happening on playoff baseball.

Regarding LaRoche, I was bummed for a minute, when I saw the 6MM figure, but then realized had we waited, we still couldn’t have afforded that amount. And, while LaRoche would have certainly been more of a sure thing, ol’ Glausy has more offensive upside imo.
123
MattChu Says:
January 19th, 2010 at 4:38 pm
Steve,
I am not that bummed bout Adam either i like him but not in love with what he can do.The second half is were Adams’ reputation is right now until he can go the whole season with steady play actually imo a couple seasons in a row or he will not get his just do, being more a defensive player than a offensive player.Glausy has steadier play with out a doubt just cant stay healthy(i think i will start calling Glausy Head and Shoulders he does remind me of those cartoons with the beach bums with big upper bodies and skinny legs)Chipper also went through a stretch like this and was able to put back to back healthier seasons.Alot of these players are just blessed with luck bad luck that is but every once in awhile the sun shines on a dogs butt!!
124
Anne Says:
January 19th, 2010 at 4:47 pm
I want him to toss some vegemite from a potato gun: “The Atlanta Braves have agreed to terms with right-handed pitcher Peter Moylan on a one-year contract for the 2010 season, thus avoiding salary arbitration. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. Moylan was the last arbitration-eligible player on the Braves’ 40-man roster who was unsigned for 2010.”

Speaking of the potato gun…since Chipper is “10,” do you think the ridiculous cheer-girls will wear “2010″ on their backs rather than plain old “10″ this season? Inquiring minds want to know.
125
Curt Says:
January 19th, 2010 at 4:54 pm
In other news, Brandon Jones just got claimed by the Pirates (our new AAA affiliate).
126
Steve Says:
January 19th, 2010 at 5:05 pm
Which is great because if he ever rediscovers his potential we can just take him back.
127
Bubdylan Says:
January 19th, 2010 at 5:40 pm
Ha, Steve, I love it! (#128)
128
Bubdylan Says:
January 19th, 2010 at 6:05 pm
Let me try one more angle on why I think the DH is appropriate:

Okay, check it. In baseball, there are two highly specialized skills: hitting and pitching.

If you gathered up 1,000 random athletes in great shape, with good eye-hand coordination, how many do you think could be taught in a couple of years to pitch well enough to join the major leagues?

Maybe 1 or 2? Maybe? It’s a freak skill.

Of those same 1,000, how many do you think could be taught in a couple of years to hit major league pitching well enough to join the majors?

A similarly tiny number. Another freak skill.

But how many of them could be taught to play the field well enough that if they could hit, they could stay? Half of them? At least 300? I think so. It’s not a freak skill. Not saying the best short stops don’t have freak skill. But I think the point stands. (I could be wrong, just say so… Curt…)

The point is, there are two freak skills that make a baseball player a very specific kind of athlete. And if a hitter tries to pitch (regularly), it’s going to be as dumb-looking as a pitcher trying to hit. So, it kind of knocks out the “players should be able to do both” argument. Because the real “both” of baseball isn’t hitting and fielding; it’s hitting and pitching.

Hitters shouldn’t have to pitch. Pitchers shouldn’t have to hit. The two skills are too refined to be required of a player who makes his living doing the other.

Babe Ruth always excepted.
129
Bubdylan Says:
January 19th, 2010 at 6:10 pm
And please don’t hit me with the Rick Ankiels of the world. They’re the exeption that proves the rule.
130
Bubdylan Says:
January 19th, 2010 at 6:11 pm
… or “exception.”
131
Bubdylan Says:
January 19th, 2010 at 6:14 pm
Or, to simplify, on the DH system, all players must do both:

Pitchers must pitch and field.

Hitters must hit and field.
132
Curt Says:
January 19th, 2010 at 8:27 pm
Bub, I’m just waiting for you to talk yourself out of it…

I think it is a good point, brace yourself, but only because I think really good defense in baseball is not a top priority in many cases. As you note, there are plenty of guys who have careers prolonged because they can hit or because they can pitch in certain situations. How long was Terry Mulholland in the league for Pete’s sake? But there are very few guys in MLB still around because of their defense, outside of catchers. There are plenty of Paul Bakos and Henry Blancos out there, but how many Chris Woodwards are left? Few.

And what lots of teams do is try and hide guys. Stick them in left or at first. If Adam Dunn and Manny Ramirez couldn’t hit would they still be in the league? Mike Piazza? Dear God he was awful. Obviously that’s rhetorical, but why don’t more guys work on their defensive lapses the same way they do to fix hitches in their swing or their wind-up? Because they don’t have to. Yet how many games did Andruw win for us with his defense? And how many marginal RFers (Rhino) could we put out there because of his range. I think a lot of teams prioritize defense in 3 or 4 positions and leave the rest to chance. SS, CF, maybe 3rd.

But you will see, most of the really good teams play really good defense too. The Phils – man I hate them – are a great defensive team.

One last point about the lack of respect for defense, the Gold Glove has become about as arbitrary as the starters for the All Star game. Every year you see guys like David Wright and Derek Jeter winning GGs when they weren’t even close to the statistical leader at their position. Why?

Given my blathering, I believe that the two hardest things in professional sports are hitting a baseball and hitting a golf ball.
133
Tcc Says:
January 19th, 2010 at 10:08 pm
I can hit both of them with my .22..poof!
134
Bubdylan Says:
January 19th, 2010 at 10:08 pm
Hitting a golf ball isn’t hard. It’s just getting it to go towards the hole…

Good points all. You’re right about hiding guys. But, are you saying that it’s a bad idea? Obviously you value defense (me, too. I love run prevention because it seldom slumps).

But, for example, if Uggla had been gung ho about swapping to LF, would you have been for us hiding him out there to get his pop?
135
# 14 Says:
January 19th, 2010 at 10:11 pm
Hard to bet on baseball??? Wanna Bet??
136
Curt Says:
January 19th, 2010 at 10:18 pm
I think what I am trying to say is that guys should take defense more seriously. But you don’t make millions because you have a .986 fielding percentage. Kelly Johnson and Matt Diaz have worked very hard to become better defensive players. To mixed results I suppose.

I think teams have no other option than to hide guys. You can’t not play Manny Ramirez because he can’t catch a fly ball. David Ortiz ends up on 1st when they play in Atlanta. It’s part of the game. So, yes, I would have taken hiding Uggla in left to get his bat.
137
Will Says:
January 19th, 2010 at 10:42 pm
Anybody care to comment on whether Pete Rose should be in the Hall of Fame? I lean towards yes, but I also spoil my children.
138
Princess Leah Says:
January 19th, 2010 at 10:43 pm
I would have hidden Uggla in LF to get his blue eyes. Just sayin.
139
Bubdylan Says:
January 19th, 2010 at 11:19 pm
Will, that’s a tough one for me. In our age, where hardly any misbehavior gets punished enough, it’s hard for me to be in favor of letting slide one of the few rule-breakers who got a tough pinch.

And I hate the argument that if A doesn’t get punished for B, then there’s no way X should get punished for Y. A slippery slope, that one.

But I admit it’s hard to avoid the feeling that keeping Rose out is arbitrary.

I’m glad I don’t have to call that one.
140
Jurrjens4NLCY Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 2:14 am
Steve -

You got it man, I’m totally sorry.

Braves signing Moylan for only $1.5M has about 2M left for someone. Think the Braves will make a move? I still have some hope. If Damon only wants 2 – 3M and he has NO suitors, they have to make a play, right?
141
Will Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 4:02 am
I think the hall is for what he did on the field as a player, not as a coach. If he fixed games as a player thats pretty indefensible. But sounds like he had a gambling addiction off the field. Why is that worse than a substance or sex addiction? On my i phone… More l8tr
142
Princess Leah Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 7:13 am
Will ya wimp. Get those thumbs movin!
143
Curt Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 7:32 am
He’s technically in the HOF. His records are in the HOF. His bust should not be.
144
Curt Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 7:34 am
And, I don’t think any of these steroid users should be in there either – and most of what they did was allowed under the then CBA.
145
Will Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 8:01 am
not to wind you up Curtis, but why? (on the no bust comment). Baseball, apple pie, Charlie Hustle, Big Red Machine. George Foster. We were in elementary school…but I remember those names as much as I do Bob Horner. My old uncle John used to drink too much and curse at Sparky Anderson. Foster hit like 50 home runs and Ted Turner was the manager of the Braves….Memories!

So Rose was a tool, and he lied about being a tool, and then he was even more of a tool by trying to make money by writing a book about being a tool …it still seems like misplaced justice, or maybe even self-righteous vengance to keep the Hall from him as his eternal punishment. Leave that to the man above. (Says one who prays for a light sentence…)
146
Bubdylan Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 8:45 am
JJ, I don’t like the risk-reward with Damon. We know the reward is pretty small; a big name, good clubhouse guy with a laughable arm who might hit 10% better than Diaz. Or he might not. Also a little speed at the top.

The risk is clogging up the outfield depth with a veteran who won’t be sat down for a better performing Diaz. Remember last year when we got G. Anderson and a few of the players expressed disappointment that we weren’t gonna let the young ‘uns play?

And they were right. Loaf did nothing during the year to prove that notion wrong. And Bobby is soooooo slow to sit a respectable veteran. It could seriously upset the team’s energy and chemistry just for the possibility of, as I said, a relatively small reward.
147
Steve Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 9:01 am
“Braves signing Moylan for only $1.5M has about 2M left for someone.”

JJ – where did you read that? I’ve only heard that the team was done after the Hinske signing. No money left.
148
Bubdylan Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 10:39 am
Lowe, Hudson, and Jurrjens

versus

Zambrano, Lilly, and Dempster.

That’s a hot ticket.

Then it’s off to see the Giants, where we’ll get Hanson vs. their #4. (Zito? Sanchez?) and KK versus their #5 (they don’t have a #5 listed on their depth chart at all, possibly KK versus Lincecum’s second start? That seems doubtful, but there is an off-day between series for SF if they wanted to go that route.) And then whoever our opening day starter is versus probably Lincecum, assuming the Giants cook up a #5 from somewhere.

It’ll be nice to face two major wild card opponents right out of the gate. Then the Padres, and then another major wild card opponent with the Rockies.

Looks like we’ll know a little something in the first 12 games.

After that, Phillies and Mets. So we should have definite bearings on the ball club after 18 games.

I wish it would have worked out to be Hanson vs. Lincecum, but that seems like the least likely scenario of all. Then again, KK’s an ace-killer.
149
Bubdylan Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 10:48 am
“And Billy Wagner strikes out Lee to end the threat, and the Braves take the first series in an opener for the ages. Braves 1, Cubbies 0 on the towering homer by Glaus…

… that sent him to the emergency room with what’s being classified as a “Frigged Right Everything.”
150
Princess Leah Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 12:07 pm
I know this topic is over but I’m busy ok? I don’t ALWAYS have time for nonsensical conversation. However, if NL adopted the DH way of living I for one would miss the moments good hitting pitchers have to shine. It’s also fun to watch when an AL team comes to town how badly their pitchers flounder.

My friend just had a baby and named him Andrew Reid. Do I tell her that her loving husband (a Philly native) has hood winked her or let it go?
151
Jurrjens4NLCY Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 12:45 pm
Steve –

Braves payroll is $83,888,667, before incentives. If all incentives are met, it’s $88,488,667.

The figure I said before was if Moylan and Melky make $6M total, but they only made $4M total. That saves $2M.

http://twitter.com/MLBRumorCentral/status/7990231349

That is a link to an insider article asking “If Johnny Damon is considering retirement” I’m not an insider so I don’t know if he is. But if he is, he would surely take $2M to play another year, right?
152
Bubdylan Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 12:54 pm
“Missing the moments when” is the argument against the DH that is the weakest, in my opinion. To repeat (three-peat?) my former illustration, if you had one terrible rule in any game, it would produce certain fond memories. We have to come at the issue without any sentiment or nostalgia and ask the question, which version does the most justice to the game?

The vast, very vast, majority of pitchers can’t hit their way out of a wet paper bag. It’s a very clumsy part of the game.

By the way, there’s no reason a good-hitting pitcher couldn’t pinch hit. Jason Marquis > Greg Norton.
153
Bubdylan Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 12:58 pm
*as if I ever come at any issue without any sentiment or nostalgia. I’m so full of … 8)
154
Jurrjens4NLCY Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 1:08 pm
Bubdylan,

Thats a good point, Diaz could easily be better, he is already a better defender. But the 2M doesn’t have to go to Damon, I like Nady, or possible signing a SP to a minor league deal to back up this great rotation.
155
Jurrjens4NLCY Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 1:13 pm
or Maybe Joe Beimel
156
Jurrjens4NLCY Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 1:18 pm
or Russel Branyan or Hank Blalock

Oh Please Sign Russel Branyan!
157
Bubdylan Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 2:03 pm
JJ, I would be 100% behind getting Nady.

I think we’re done spending, though.
158
Princess Leah Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 3:11 pm
How many players who would make a decent DH are free? Cause it would seem that is one more position we wouldn’t be able to fill. The Mets and Phillys would for damn sure.
159
Bubdylan Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 3:20 pm
None of them are free. They all cost.
160
Curt Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 4:14 pm
Sadly, Aubrey Huff is unavailable
161
Tcc Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 4:23 pm
Ok, so give ME the 2mil. I’ll be the best damn fan they ever had! I’ll go to every game and cheer. I’ll bring ya’ll with me and we’ll have the time of our lives. “C’mon Chip, c’mon Kid”!!!

But keep Rose out of the HOF. If you want to look up his numbers and go ga-ga over them that’s fine. No Rose and no DH.
162
Bubdylan Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 5:56 pm
Courtesy of somebody called “KeepTheStoke” on MLB.com:

media.790thezone.com/Podcasts/1345/frankwren012010.mp3

It’s a 9 minute interview with Wren. Pretty interesting.
163
Bubdylan Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 5:56 pm
Dang, try this:

http://media.790thezone.com/Podcasts/1345/frankwren012010.mp3
164
Curt Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 6:28 pm
Bub, I heard that live this morning. Seemed very defensive and very canned. He knew what was coming and had some pre-prepared answers. Some fact checking doesn’t really back up some of his answers – particularly the Glaus health issue.

Pushing a show based on a response to this interview so everyone listen.

“Wren will you be Frank with us?”
165
Bubdylan Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 6:52 pm
Yeah, I sensed some definite dodging with the Glaus issue, unfortunately. I’d have been much happier if he had just said we’re taking a reasonable, calculated risk with a very high reward, rather than pretending that 29 teams left him on the table at 3 million dollars because they didn’t notice he was there.

“Wren, will you be Frank with us?”

I just drooled on my keyboard.
166
Bubdylan Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 6:55 pm
Oh, wait… is it sans comma on purpose? As in, “When will you be frank with us?” changed to “Wren…?”

If so, I’m so happy I might run down the street like George Bailey.
167
Curt Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 6:58 pm
the 2nd one
168
Bubdylan Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 7:53 pm
Helloooooooooooo, Bedford Falls!!!
169
Will Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 8:08 pm
Frankly my dear, I don’t give a Damon
170
Jurrjens4NLCY Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 8:19 pm
(Michael) Barret? We don’t need no stinkin’ Barret.

Ok, that was bad. Bad as in bad not bad as in good.
171
Jurrjens4NLCY Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 8:22 pm
Bub,

I posted that link before, it was before they signed Glaus. Who is the 30HR, 100RBI guy.
172
Jurrjens4NLCY Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 8:23 pm
Bub,

Try posting a link that was made in this decade, lol.
173
Princess Leah Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 8:39 pm
Sometimes I feel like I need a decoder ring for this message board.
174
Jurrjens4NLCY Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 10:03 pm
I know you can’t “like” things like on MLBTR, but Bub’s #146 post was one of the smartest things ever posted, ever about Damon.

I would like an upgrade over Joe Thurston, like Adam Kennedy.
175
Bubdylan Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 11:18 pm
Maybe the link is wrong? I was trying to post a podcast that was post-Hinske. When I saved it to my desktop, that’s what I got.
176
Bubdylan Says:
January 20th, 2010 at 11:37 pm
“Derek and I have communicated. We have not spoken. We’ve tried, but we just keep missing each other.”

Seriously? Man, I hate little pointed pieces of dishonesty. The General Manager of the Braves and one of his pitchers can’t get each other on the phone for a month? Sorry; no way. That’s complete hokum.

I don’t want to demonize Frank. I still like him. But I wish guys in this business would be more candid. I know you can’t say everything, but come on…
177
Jurrjens4NLCY Says:
January 21st, 2010 at 12:00 am
Bub,

Probably, That one is definitely from the day before they signed Glaus
178
Jurrjens4NLCY Says:
January 21st, 2010 at 12:06 am
Bub, Is this what you want?

http://www.790thezone.com/instantreplay/Episodes.aspx?PID=1343&pn=2
179
Jurrjens4NLCY Says:
January 21st, 2010 at 12:10 am
Haha, Apparently that is from after the Furcaling event. Still a good listen.
180
Will Says:
January 21st, 2010 at 9:01 am
Definitely too much hand wrenging in that interview, Frankly speaking.
181
Jurrjens4NLCY Says:
January 21st, 2010 at 10:14 am
Here is the link:

http://www.790thezone.com/instantreplay/Episodes.aspx?PID=1345
182
Curt Says:
January 21st, 2010 at 6:10 pm
Nice work Will.

P.S. your Xmas card with its $87 stamp just got returned to me. email me your new address and send a check to cover air freight.
183
Princess Leah Says:
January 21st, 2010 at 7:27 pm
So Curt, I guess mine got lost in the mail huh. I KNEW it! It’s ok. Next year buddy.
184
Curt Says:
January 21st, 2010 at 8:02 pm
You still live at 7?
185
Princess Leah Says:
January 21st, 2010 at 10:59 pm
Yeah but don’t tell anybody. There are some bona fide crazies on this website.
186
Anne Says:
January 22nd, 2010 at 9:35 am
Speaking of bona fide crazy…I’m headed to the SF Bay Area tomorrow for a long week. Stalking Mark DeRosa? Maybe…

If I see any young fellows who look like they might swing a mean bat…I’ll make ‘em an offer to follow me back home.
187
Steve Says:
January 22nd, 2010 at 3:02 pm
Wow Anne, lots of innuendo in your post #186. I’m blushing over here.
188
Anne Says:
January 22nd, 2010 at 4:09 pm
Just don’t tell Diaz I’m on the west coast with my first (pre-Diaz) love.
189
MattChu Says:
January 22nd, 2010 at 9:25 pm
LOL yep dont know how you can beat around the bush anymore than Anne!
190
PrintSays Leah Says:
January 22nd, 2010 at 11:43 pm
Hey, just in case ya’ll were wondering Steve’s always right. I saw “Up in the Air” tonight and it is a great movie. Next time Steve, “George Clooney”…that’s all ya gotta say. He’s so dreamy!

BTW, I helped Jay Hey pick out his shoes tonight. You can all rest assured I’m keeping him style conscience. No worries.
191
Princess Leah Says:
January 23rd, 2010 at 8:34 am
BUB!!!!!!! Again?
192
Anne Says:
January 23rd, 2010 at 8:06 pm
My mom is purging her home and just offered me opera glasses. Seriously, like little bitty pearl-coated things. Who wants to look like an IDIOT at a Braves game?? (yeah, that’d be me)
193
Tcc Says:
January 23rd, 2010 at 11:35 pm
Anne, you cant tell the players without a program and you cant tell which cheek they’re spittin’ their ‘baccer juice with, lessin’ you got them fancy opera glasses. Thank yer mom perlitely. I’ll see you at the game. Go Braves!
194
Princess Leah Says:
January 24th, 2010 at 7:41 pm
I miss baseball.
195
Tcc Says:
January 24th, 2010 at 9:00 pm
I’m with you, your Highness. It’s getting close!
196
Princess Leah Says:
January 24th, 2010 at 9:46 pm
Awe shucks Cledus. I expect a crown in June. Steve, could you get right on that?
197
MattChu Says:
January 24th, 2010 at 11:17 pm
Okay Steve,Curt and Hammy when is the next broadcast coming out?I really enjoy your comments and opinions!O and will any of you or all be at the spring training games this year?
198
Will Says:
January 25th, 2010 at 1:25 am
Thumb. Sore. New. Show.
Curt- thx . Worked hard, bub sets bar high. will get right on mail. Bin bizzy, sorry.
199
Princess Leah Says:
January 25th, 2010 at 7:15 am
” bub sets bar high” when he shows. Commitment issues.
200
Curt Says:
January 25th, 2010 at 11:14 am
New show coming Wed
201
Princess Leah Says:
January 25th, 2010 at 12:20 pm
Wednesday? That’s random but I’m not complaining. Go Braves!
202
MattChu Says:
January 25th, 2010 at 1:16 pm
THX Curt! Look forward to hearing it!
203
Steve Says:
January 25th, 2010 at 9:43 pm
Blame me for the scheduling. Things didn’t work out the last couple of days. But Wednesday it is.
204
Jurrjens4NLCY Says:
January 26th, 2010 at 10:37 pm
Who produces the show?
205
Bubdylan Says:
January 26th, 2010 at 10:48 pm
I think I’ll track the wild card race from the beginning of the season this time. Besides being more realistic, it might be interesting to pay attention to some teams from the central and the west. Get to know their players a bit.
206
Bubdylan Says:
January 26th, 2010 at 10:51 pm
The last time I listened to Jimmy Buffett on purpose I was about 20 years old. I stuck him in the player on a whim a few minutes ago and, hell, these are good tunes.
207
Anne Says:
January 26th, 2010 at 11:46 pm
Bub, speaking of west-coast, my mom is ALL OVER a story about an A’s farm-league player – pitcher, I think – might be wrong – who has given up dreams of big league play in lieu of becoming a catholic priest. In THIS day and age. WTF, is all I have to say. Whole feature story on him in the Oakland Tribune this past weekend. Criz-azy.
208
Anne Says:
January 26th, 2010 at 11:48 pm
Grant Desme. That’s him. NOT a pitcher…I’m hazy on stats most days…
209
Princess Leah Says:
January 27th, 2010 at 8:15 am
JJ…I do. I just don’t like to brag about it. Welcome back Mr. Dylan. Jimmy Buffet? Really?
210
PrintSays Leah Says:
January 27th, 2010 at 10:33 am
http://www.talkingchop.com/2010/1/27/1271489/2010-braves-player-previews

Make ABT proud.
211
Bubdylan Says:
January 27th, 2010 at 11:40 am
“In THIS day and age. WTF, is all I have to say.”

As in “Welcome The Father?”

I heard about that. I think he was their top prospect, too. Choice between being an entertainer or a different sort of helper to his fellow man, I guess. Then there’s the dollars… admirable choice in my opinion.

Yes, really Jimmy Buffett.

“Now he lives in the Islands, fishes the pilins
and drinks his green label each day.
Writing his memoirs, losing his hearing,
but he don’t care what most people say.

After eighty-six years of perpetual motion,
if he likes you, he’ll smile and he’ll say,
‘Jimmy, some of it’s magic. Some of it’s tragic.
But I’ve had a good life all the way.’”
212
Anne Says:
January 27th, 2010 at 11:46 am
Admirable, sure, I just find it stunning that he made the choice that most wouldn’t.
213
Bubdylan Says:
January 27th, 2010 at 11:53 am
Oh, I’d make that choice in a second. If not for the … you know… hardship and stuff. 8)
214
Curt Says:
January 27th, 2010 at 12:41 pm
Think Pat Tillman with a frock. Or flock…..
215
Princess Leah Says:
January 27th, 2010 at 12:53 pm
That’s gonna be one hellava church softball team.
216
Curt Says:
January 27th, 2010 at 2:47 pm
I used to play against former Braves’ 1st baseman Mike Bell. He might not have stuck around the majors much, but could sure hit a softball a long way.
217
Princess Leah Says:
January 27th, 2010 at 5:56 pm
NEW SHOW!!!!!!
218
Curt Says:
January 27th, 2010 at 6:09 pm
Patience
219
Bubdylan Says:
January 27th, 2010 at 6:16 pm
Curt, that’s cool you played against Bell.

Speaking of which, it’s occurred to me that the ABT crew has met a few ballplayers and dignitaries. I’d be interested in seeing a list. At least a top 5 or 10 or some such, of famous or quasi-famous (like Bell) folks you’ve run into. By top 5 or 10, I mean which experiences you liked best, not necessarily the most impressive names or whatever.

Any takers?

I saw Burt Reynolds at a Florida State game. From, like, half a mile a way. His mustache was quite clear, though.
220
Anne Says:
January 27th, 2010 at 6:27 pm
No one ever believes this one, but I met O J Simpson at Alioto’s Restaurant in SF when I was 10 (this was 1980). He was having lunch with two other guys, smiling and signing autographs, totally normal. How the mighty have fallen.

My mother insisted it was Reggie Jackson. Silly mom…she doesn’t know if baseball is the one with halves and quarters or innings. Sigh.
221
Bubdylan Says:
January 27th, 2010 at 6:53 pm
I don’t believe you.

“If mom don’t see IT,
you must omit.”

*punches self in the face*
222
MattChu Says:
January 27th, 2010 at 7:31 pm
Hmm all this talk of meeting stars.I myself met Bob Horner at the airport(Atlanta) when i was 12 got an autograph and got Dale Murphy’s autograph at Atlanta Fulton County Stadium before game, Lord thats been so long ago!!!
223
Princess Leah Says:
January 27th, 2010 at 7:33 pm
I saw Ted Turner at his MT Grill. He thought my, at the time, infant son was cute. Keith Lockhart and I chatted it up at Urgent Care in 1999. We were both sick and had sick kids with us. It was a blast. Finally, I ran into David Hasselhoff in LAX in 1996 or so. He didn’t play ball but dude is enormous. That was before all the surgery that left him looking like a chick.
224
Steve Says:
January 27th, 2010 at 8:23 pm
MattChu – I don’t plan to make any ST games this year (can’t speak for the other guys). It just never seems to fit into the family vacation budget. I bet it’s really fun down there, though.

JJ – In terms of producing, my buddy Mike is the smart IT guy behind the scenes who developed and maintains the web site and helped me design the technology we use to record and post the show. And, week to week, I do the post production on the show and get it out to the website and iTunes. Curt, for the record, is our Twitter-er. Hammy just shows up and collects a big fat paycheck.

Bub – I don’t really meet a lot of famous people outside of the time I spent with credentials at the ballpark this past season. Although, I will say that my 90 seconds I had with Dale Murphy (when he was giving his fireside chat at the Mormon Church in Roswell, GA), cementing our interview with him, was really cool. He was amazingly genuine and warm. And Glavine was very down to earth when I met up with him. Seemed like a regular guy. At the stadium, Jerome Jurenovich and Chip Caray were both incredibly accommodating and good natured about me just walking up to them and asking if they’d be on the show. They both, without hesitation, said sure and proceeded to give me their cell numbers. I was kinda of blown away by that.
225
Steve Says:
January 27th, 2010 at 8:24 pm
The show will be up late tonight, folks. We’re not getting down to business until after 10pm. It will likely be up after midnight.
226
Bubdylan Says:
January 27th, 2010 at 8:51 pm
Steve, thanks for letting us know. I can go nite nite and catch it tomorrow.

I’m glad Glav & Murph treated you well. I remember the Glavine show was the first time I understood what a classy podcast ABT is. Not just cuz you got him, but the way it came off.

In fact, his graciousness in that interview is what keeps my love for Glav hanging on by a thread. A tiny thread. A thread like if the world’s smallest spider had an itty-bitty baby spider – a preemie – and that baby spider pooped out it’s first wittle baby-thread so microscopic that it’s mama couldn’t see it.
227
PrintSays Leah Says:
January 27th, 2010 at 9:15 pm
Ok fine…I guess I can wait until tomorrow. It’s a good thing I have a good book to help ease the pain of disappointment.
228
Princess Leah Says:
January 27th, 2010 at 9:16 pm
I’m never changing my name again…too much trouble.
229
Steve Says:
January 27th, 2010 at 9:34 pm
Leah – what book you reading?
230
Curt Says:
January 27th, 2010 at 9:37 pm
I met Bruce Benedict when I was a kid. He was teaching a baseball camp when the players were on strike and he was great. Bob Horner came by and he was a really nice guy too. I met Cooter from Dukes of Hazzard when I was a kid. He was much as you would expect. Ham and I also grew up with Fran Tarkenton’s son and he was always a very nice man when I was at his house. Oh, and another guy in my softball league is the drummer for the band Sevendust, who Ham and I also grew up with, and who is just a funny down to earth guy still. For those of you who know who Sevendust is.

But to echo Steve, all these players and media-types have been nothing but great. From Frenchy to JJ to TP to Dimino. All these guys have been so generous with their time with us. I have been amazed, and I’m not sure why. I guess the expectation is that these athletes are all self-absorbed and distant, and save one instance, that has never been the case.
231
Princess Leah Says:
January 27th, 2010 at 10:54 pm
Why Steve I’m glad you asked. The Brothers Karamazov by Dostoevsky. Not what you would call light or easy reading but well worth the effort. Someone told me it was the best novel ever written so I thought I’d give it a try.
232
Tcc Says:
January 27th, 2010 at 11:03 pm
Have performed for a crowned head of Europe. Played ping pong against Gordon Lightfoot. Shook hands with Haven Moses. Saw Ed “Too Tall Jones” walk through a door way. Yes, he is one big dude.

Better than any of that, I had one of my favorite Braves caps signed by the “Lemmer” and Chip Caray last year. I’ll never wash it again.

In the name of Jason Heyward, Go Braves!
233
Bubdylan Says:
January 27th, 2010 at 11:13 pm
Best book ever. D’you get a Constance Garnett translation?

Show #90: Reviewing the Braves’ Off Season Moves

233 Responses to “Show #90: Reviewing the Braves’ Off Season Moves”

Leave a Reply

Recent Podcasts

Recent Blogs

Archives

Recent Tweets

Blog Directory

Social Media

Friends of the Show

Music of the Show

Feeds

Atlanta Braves News

Admin