Show #97: Top 9 Storylines from Braves Spring Training

March 15, 2010

Show #97: Top 9 Storylines from Braves Spring Training

Overreaction or reality? Checking in on Braves Spring Training.

Show #97 [ 37:26 ] Play Now | Play in Popup | Download

160 Responses to “Show #97: Top 9 Storylines from Braves Spring Training”

1
Bubdylan (as Homer) Says:
March 15th, 2010 at 11:25 pm
Awesome show! Loved it.

Laughed a lot at the “one contact and a monocle” line.

I agree with most of the reality/overreactions except Lowe and McLouth. I think the buffoon angle on Lowe is crazy. Flakey, yeah, but a hard worker (lots of comments from the team about his work outs and stretch routines when he first arrived last year). And that he’s changed his mechanics to “pitch taller” makes good sense. Today he was quoted as being resolved not to change little things along the way, but to stick to what he’s worked out this offseason.

No, I don’t think he’ll go 19-7 or whatever. The blisters in Atl humidity will keep him a little inconsistant. Another 15 win season probably, with a lower ERA. But I don’t think his flakery is the detriment some of you do.

And I’m not quite ready to give up on Nate. I wouldn’t be a bit surprised to see him spiral into oblivion. But I also wouldn’t be surprised to see him get a couple of line drives in one game and then completely turn it around.

I wish Bobby would say no to his “keep putting me in there so I can find my timing” request, though. Take charge of the team. Start Melky/Diaz/Heyward and then put McLouth in as the first replacement. Can’t be held hostage by a slump the way we were with Kelly and the French.

Both of the Japanese pitchers have me worried. I took a peak at KK’s splits the other day with an eye to how teams are doing after they’ve seen him a few times. Don’t look. It’s not pretty.

Go Braves!!!
2
Will Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 4:08 am
Bub – I havent had time to listen yet – but remember what we were saying a while back – that there are two views on KK. The first is that he improves after settling in, the second is that his pitch variety is limited and he is getting figured out. Put me into the worried group.
3
Danny Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 5:35 am
The Mark Bowman article at MLB is reassuring on the Lowe situation, but I’m with you Bub on Nate. I will die if Nate is hitting under 1 at leadoff for two months of the regular season!
4
Will Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 7:00 am
Brooks Conrad?
5
Steve Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 8:04 am
Hi Danny – welcome to the board. I’m with you on Nate. But, given last season’s early team struggles, I believe that Bobby will act more quickly and move him. Ham and Curt don’t share that same level of faith.

Will – I believe that Conrad is on the team on Opening Day. Not only is he hitting (something we saw him do last year) but he’s also looking much better defensively than he did last year.

Bub – I agree with you on Lowe and the flakiness. I really don’t believe the non-taping incident has much of any significance other than an uncharacteristic moment of laziness/flakiness on his part.
6
Steve Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 9:38 am
Nate sitting today. Melky in CF and batting lead off. I’m just sayin’.
7
Bubdylan (as Homer) Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 12:18 pm
jj getting absolutely torn up in the first. Talk about some balls sounding like Hank Aaron; every Marlin in the first inning.

I think even the three outs were blistered.
8
Curt Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 12:25 pm
I would like to retract recent statements I made…..
9
Bubdylan (as Homer) Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 12:33 pm
2nd inning better. 3 up, 3 down. Still gave up a line drive. Somebody on the DOB blog says his pitches “don’t look fast.”

Nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!!!!!!
10
Bubdylan (as Homer) Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 12:38 pm
Are you guys listening to Mazzone go off on Joe West? Brutal. Saying how he’s always got to be the center of attention, and now fat jokes. “Needs to step away from the table.” Yowzers.
11
Bubdylan (as Homer) Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 12:50 pm
3rd inning also 3 up, 3 down, but I’m extremely concerned. Sounds like his change up is all he’s got going. Got a strike out with back-to-back-to-back offspeed pitches, I think.

The other two outs were hit squarely. That’s, like, ten JJ pitches squared up on in three innings.
12
Princess Leah Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 1:16 pm
Getting my first official look at the Braves on SportsSouth. *very deep ever loving sigh*. It really is a drug isn’t it. I like Tommy G in the broadcast booth. I hope to see a ball fly off J. Hey KID’s bat.

Great show by the way. My favorite moment was around minute six when Hammy makes the excellent observation that we aren’t a team that has a Johnny Damon. I find great comfort in the fact that I’m concerned about Chipper. When I disagree with one or all of you I’m always wrong. So Yippee! McLouth is disheartening. I don’t see Bobby trotting him out there like a JS or Frenchy. I don’t see him having the love for him (like Steve said). Finally, I know it’s spring training and the season is long but I expect the players to prepare and play their butts off every game. I acknowledge that this is unrealistic but anything less hurts my feelers. In other words Lowe better shape up and keep his head in the game. Keep it together mister!
13
Bubdylan (as Homer) Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 1:48 pm
Wagner hit 101 mph according to the radar gun? Did I hear that right??
14
Princess Leah Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 1:49 pm
Wags looks nasty and I had no idea Freddie Freeman was such a looker! We might need to bring him up early.

Shut it!
15
Steve Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 1:54 pm
Bub and Leah – how did Saito look? I’m just following the box score and it looks good there …
16
Princess Leah Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 1:57 pm
Steve, I was called to lunch duty for my wee ones and missed most of his innings. I did see him get knocked around a little by the first or second batter but that’s all I saw.
17
Bubdylan (as Homer) Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 2:08 pm
Steve, I’m on radio. Sounded like too little info on Saito to make a judgment. Other than not getting spanked, which I’ll take. I guess.

Oh, wait. Here it is. Bobby Cox said he did great. Reminds him of Maddux and Bob Gibson, only with more action. Opening day starter and clean up hitter for any other team.

(Asked for comment on sitting McLouth for the day, Bobby said, “Who?”)
18
Princess Leah Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 2:14 pm
Wish Prado was playing.
19
Princess Leah Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 2:25 pm
Matty D being interviewed saying this is the most confident Braves team he’s ever played on. I like it!
20
Princess Leah Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 2:28 pm
“No one’s been on the DL for pulled fat.”. Funny guy.
21
Princess Leah Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 2:31 pm
David Ross said Saito looked good today. I think Ross looked great with his throw to second.
22
Bubdylan (as Homer) Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 2:41 pm
Leo Mazzone makes me feel icky.
23
Princess Leah Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 2:48 pm
Oh come on Bub. Leo rocks! Hah!
24
Bubdylan (as Homer) Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 3:00 pm
ba-doom-boom, chhhhhhh.
25
Princess Leah Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 3:05 pm
Ya’ll have probably seen this but I love clips like this. Nice to see our boys of summer having such a good time.
http://www.foxsportssouth.com/pages/video?PID=jexSm0ru8RvtvyMcKKelJXljsi2mQVCQ

And…Brian Jordan just said Martin Prado was his MVP last season.
26
MattChu Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 9:21 pm
Just a thought, what if Jason H. hit leadoff? Move Nate down in the order and bat Prado or Melky second depending on the starting pitcher. As far as Lowe,Saito or any of them its SPRING TRAINING the only goal on anyone persons mind is getting into shape and timing,timing and more timing.
27
Tcc Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 9:22 pm
Princess..that was hilarious! ABT, a great show as usual. It’s so hard to tell how ST will translate to on the field performance once the season gets started. I like McLouth a lot but would keep him on a short leash if he can’t get out of the box. Hoping for the best.

As far as “reality vs over reaction” on Heyward..there is so much pressure on this young guy I can’t imagine how he is dealing with all the hype. But! He seems to be doing that and passing the performance tests so far. How great would that be?

I think the future is very bright..Go Braves!
28
Tcc Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 9:36 pm
Off topic, if you don’t mind but you guys were talking about GT losing in the first round against OSU. Do you think Hewitt’s job is in jeapordy having a lineup of Favors, Lawal, and Shumpert ( all NBA prospects ) and not going to the sweet 16 is a failure. And who takes the blame??
29
Bubdylan (as Homer) Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 9:43 pm
MattChu, I’ve been clamoring for Heyward in the leadoff role for a week. He sees soooo many pitches. And he hits line drives, walks, and generally scares pitchers. Some might call it a waste of power, but I think he’d have a better rookie campaign if there was as little pressure for power as possible. The one hole is good for that idea.

Against RHP, I would absolutely hit him lead off if he puts in a month of league average+ ball in the 6, 7, and 8 hole.

Heyward
Prado
Chipper (I’d go with Escobar, but Stevie won’t let me)
Glaus
McCann
Escobar
Melky/ McLouth
Diaz/ Melky

vs. LHP:

Diaz/ Melky
Prado
Chipper
Glaus
McCann
Escobar
Heyward
Melky/ Diaz/ McLouth

Go Braves!!
30
Curt Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 9:58 pm
Tcc, being a huge, life-long GT hoops fan, I would offer that Hewitt is safe regardless of what happens. I think had they lost to UNC in the 1st round of the ACC tournament, I think he would have been fired. Given the run in the ACC tournament, and honestly a near championship, I find it impossible to believe that he doesn’t survive until next season. I definitely think his leash grows shorter every year, and his antics at the end of the season have earned him no friends in the AD at Tech. Add to that the booing he received at the end of the home loss to Va Tech to end the season, he better get his act together.

Pros on Hewitt are his recruiting and his character. He can still recruit, but his character took some hits this year. The fact that he has two lottery picks and finished under .500 in the league, barely made the tournament, and had such a mediocre regular season that despite making the ACC championship game they are a 10 seed -meaning should he win the first round he gets a 2 seed in the 2nd – all tell me he isn’t doing a good job. The team is very undisciplined, have no identity, can’t run a half court offense, can’t handle late game pressure, can’t make free throws, and have copious amounts of turnovers. There have to be better options out there. It doesn’t seem to hard to find a guy who can recruit and coach. The talent base in Atlanta is unmatched, as is the allure of coaching in the ACC.

Sorry. I could go on and on. Hewitt has outlived his purpose. He is getting nothing out of these guys and when they are only there for a year, you can’t let all these opportunities pass by. And I know that the Tech community feels the same for the most part. His contract makes him tough to fire though. He gets more than $7 mill should he be terminated and Tech’s AD is strapped for cash.
31
Curt Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 10:03 pm
To the Braves, we were doing this show with tongue somewhat in cheek as we have so little to go on and ST is so tough to gauge. McLouth does concern me a lot. But that is why they are down there. To get straightened out. Saito apparently had a nice outing today. Heyward and Glaus continue to kill it. It certainly feels early on that we have much fewer issues than we had in the past few years, and isn’t that nice.
32
MattChu Says:
March 16th, 2010 at 11:44 pm
Bub i agree with most everything. One thing i might change just to see how it would translate to more production is move the pitcher to the 8th spot and put Nate in the 9 hole with Heyward/diaz at the top of the order depending on pitcher
33
Bubdylan (as Homer) Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 12:40 am
Pitcher in the 8 hole gives the 7th hitter fewer pitches over the plate. When Heyward’s the 7th hitter, that would be okay, since he’ll just take his walk. Not sure about putting Esco in that kind of spot, though. Does he take? I can’t really remember.

Another nice thing about Heyward at lead off (this’ll never happen, but a guy can blog, I guess), is that his doubles and even triples would be very handy for limiting double plays on grounders by the 2nd batter (not to mention that his speed would help that, too).

Heyward at lead-off = a lot of 1 & 2 run first innings. I’m falling in love with this idea. They’ll never do it, though. Not in a millon years.
34
Anne Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 6:53 am
I rarely look at the AJC, but I did this morning (stole it from my neighbor) (and then put it back…so BORROWED from my neighbor). WTF is John Smoltz’s problem? “Asked if his new assignments with Peachtree TV, TBS and the MLB networks signal the end of his pitching career, Smoltz told the AJC ‘not officially.’”
It’s not like he’s hurting for cash, and it’s not like there’s some kind of time clock ticking (like rookie year to contract or something)…so what’s the deal?
I dislike him as a person almost as much as I dislike Chipper as a person (nothing to do with talent, y’all) so I’m biased, but seriously, Johnny? Go gentle into that good night. Of retirement.
35
Steve Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 10:25 am
Anne – I don’t think that Smoltz is being coy or evasive, I think he believes (and it may be true) that some team will come knocking at mid-season (ala Pedro) and that he may pitch this year. I would put the possiblity at 50%.

Check out Saito’s entry video from the Dodgers. Hilarious: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wuXBmJ-pRFk
36
Anne Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 10:40 am
Steve: way to defend the man. (but he’s delusional, right?????)
37
Hammy Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 10:47 am
Curtis – R.E. GT – I agree with everything you are saying. I also think Hewitt is still riding the coat tails of the magical run to the Final Four (even though they should have won the Championship the following year – classic Hewitt).

I think we might eventually get to Heyward at the leadoff spot, but I don’t see it happening before mid-season at best. Too much pressure for the Kid, and Bobby doesn’t like to put that kind of pressure on anyone. I think Melky is our leadoff guy if Nate can’t get his act together.
38
Princess Leah Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 10:50 am
I think Nate’s gonna figure it out today. Just a gut feeling.
39
Princess Leah Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 12:25 pm
I like those green hats.
40
Princess Leah Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 12:43 pm
Glaus looks natural at 1st to me. McCann lost a pop up in the rainy sky and Glaus ran in and bailed him out. Maybe Mac saw him coming and just let him take it but it looked like Glaus had to come in fast (I’m tired of trying to re-word potentially euphemistic phrases so bring on the guy humor).
41
Steve Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 1:01 pm
“Maybe Mac saw him coming and just let him take it but it looked like Glaus had to come in fast” …. would not have registerd on me until Leah pointed it out. Now inappropriately loud laughter at my desk.

Anne – I wasn’t even trying to defend Smoltz. I truly believe there’s a legitimate chance that he’s pitching for someone before the end of the season.

Agreed on Heyward and batting first. There’s just no way they’ll take this AA, 20 year old and bat him leadoff. But, I agree that it’s not a bad idea.
42
Princess Leah Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 1:07 pm
TP just said in regards to Heyward, “His patience at the plate is beyond my comprehension.” Really TP? Shocking.
43
Bubdylan Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 1:18 pm
Here comes NATE! Woo Hoo!!!

*does a Great Nate dance*

I’m really doing it. It consists of playing the “just fine” stock ringtone on my cell and thrusting my neck like Mick Jagger.

Come on everybody!
44
Bubdylan Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 1:19 pm
Ball One! It’s working.

*thrust. thrust*

Ball Two!
45
Bubdylan Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 1:19 pm
46
Bubdylan Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 1:20 pm
One. For. Twenty. Eight.
47
Princess Leah Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 1:31 pm
Hmmm…maybe I was wrong about today being Nate’s day. Especially since he got an error in the 1st. Yea…not so much his day.
48
Princess Leah Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 1:33 pm
Wow! Thurston and Gaus working it out across the diamond. Great play on both corners.
49
Princess Leah Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 1:33 pm
GLaus.
50
Hammy Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 1:34 pm
.036. Ugh.
51
Bubdylan Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 1:39 pm
It would be better if it was a straight .000

.036 is just so… funny-looking. How can that be somebody’s batting average? I mean, lots of people sport a .000 for a little while, so it’s not hard to find it in a ST box score.

But .036?? I defy you to find that in a box score besides Nate McLapse.
52
Bubdylan Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 1:45 pm
Leah’s boyfriend with a single for the Fish.
53
Princess Leah Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 1:53 pm
Bub, I have two blog topic requests. 1)bulletpoints that go into deciding the order of the lineup. The basics are obvious but some of us are clueless on the specifics. 2)Characteristics of different types of pitches and how simple minded people can tell the difference. For instance how does a breaking ball differ from a sinker to the naked eye or are they basically the same pitch?

Some bloggers assume to much when it comes to the knowledge of their readers. I could just google but where’s the fun in that?
54
Bubdylan Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 2:10 pm
Leah, I have those same two blog requests. 8)

Pssh. I don’t know that stuff. I could make it up, I guess, like I do all my other “serious” posts.

A sinker kind of goes WOOSH whereas a curve goes *whistles, spits*
A fast ball goes ZOOM, unless Chavez throws it, and this it goes CRACK.
A slider goes SHEOWWW and a change up goes S-L-O-W.

Your lead-off guy should typically bat above .036
Your #’s 7 and 8 hitters should not have feminine or French names.
Your #3 hitter should be the best hitter on the team or a veteran you don’t want to start pouting.

S’all I got.

(Really, your baseball IQ is plenty a match for mine. I just use a tone of authority to peddle my B.S. opinions. Try it! It really works!)
55
Steve Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 2:20 pm
Frenchy’s ST numbers: 4 – 21. It’s not McLouthian, but it ain’t great.
56
Princess Leah Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 2:24 pm
Prado’s awesome dammit and will hit .450 this season with 53 home runs!!!!!!!

How’s that? I don’t buy it BD. You don’t give yourself enough credit.
57
Bubdylan Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 2:25 pm
Well, okay, the sinker/curve I can tell a little bit.

A curve is kind of loopy, especially if it’s like Hanson’s 12-6 curve (think: 12:00 and 6:00 on your clock). It’s slower than the sinker.

Sinker is short for “sinking fast ball.” It’s about as fast as a slowish fast ball. It doesn’t so much loop in a curve as it just goes straight toward the plate and then the bottom drops out of it and it sinks down. Induces a lot of weak hits/ grounders.

Somebody correct me if I’m wrong.

Now, what I would like to understand is what a slider looks like. Just a fast ball, like the sinker, than fades to one side at the end? Is that it? Anyone? It’s bad to be a Braves fan (Smoltz) and not know that, isn’t it?
58
Bubdylan Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 2:33 pm
Here you go, Leah. This looks pretty decent:

http://www.lokeshdhakar.com/2007/09/20/baseball-pitches/
59
Bubdylan Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 2:36 pm
And it looks like I was describing a splitter as a sinker. So, see, there’s not as much fun in google, but…
60
Bubdylan Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 2:45 pm
Also, if you google baseball grips, the top hit is also a good site. The link is being rejected by ABT somehow. But it’s a cool look at the grips.
61
Princess Leah Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 4:33 pm
Thx Bub. Very helpful. I’ll need to study to really get it.
62
Bubdylan Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 4:40 pm
a.d.d. AND o.c.d.??

We’re twins.

I’m over two weeks w/o alcohol, btw.
63
Princess Leah Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 4:48 pm
So proud. Great job! If I knew how to make a whole row of smiley faces I’d do it. Some day I must tell you my funniest OCD moment.
64
Bubdylan Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 6:06 pm
Do players besides Manny ever take a high jersey # just to be… whatever? Cuz I just looked up Heyward’s B-day:

8/9/89

#89, Jason Heyward? I think that’d be way cool. And will stand out in 2035 when we retire that number.
65
Anne Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 6:11 pm
Speaking of shirt-backs…so, the FanGirls or whatever we call the fake cheerleaders with the t-shirt potato guns…I think I mentioned last year (or it was in my head) my thought that no way will they all wear “10″ on their backs this year (due to Chipper) – I bet they’ll all wear “2010.”
66
Curt Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 7:59 pm
Anne, I like to refer to them as some of my future wives.
67
Bubdylan Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 10:46 pm
This Podcast Rocks.

That is all.
68
Princess Leah Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 11:12 pm
Word.
69
Tcc Says:
March 17th, 2010 at 11:17 pm
Anne: Or maybe “6″ for Bobby. Anne, yes they are “fake cheerleaders” and Curt, yes they are future fantasy wives….sigh/gulp!

After work today I met a couple of friends for dinner, had some beers and genuine belly laughs..much needed. Came home and found the Braves on TV (replay)..and in time to see Heyward and Chipper get back to back hits.

I remember when Chipper first came up as a scrawny/lanky shortstop, and then filled out and became the power guy he is now. Jason Heyward is “HUGE” in comparison at the beginning of his MLB career.
70
Will Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 8:09 am
Lost rocks.
71
Will Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 8:17 am
just logged on first time to MLB.com…watching the Marlins game. Love the green hats. Please keep. And can you catch me up….When did they give the announcer job to my 14 year old cousin?
72
Corky's Mom Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 8:24 am
Happy Birthday, Corky my boy!!
http://corecontrarian.blogspot.com/2010/03/corky-miller.html
73
Will Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 8:24 am
they just said his name…Rich Waltz….grrrrrrr. Is he for keeps? his intonation sounds like he is riding a horse. UP down down UP down down UP UP down UP.. just talk, you wanker.
74
Will Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 8:28 am
at least he’s more or less technically competent… going to drive me crazy, tho.
75
Hammy Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 8:42 am
Leah, Will, – who’s conning who?
76
Princess Leah Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 8:54 am
Shhhhhhhh…with the in laws. Haven’t had time to watch yet. If it’s a con and James is involved I would go with him. Ultimate con man that Mr. ford.
77
Hammy Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 9:10 am
You might be surprised. I will save it for our super secret Lost message board that only you and I know about. What is the url again?
78
Will Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 9:10 am
im an idiot….Waltz is a Marlins announcer!
79
Will Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 9:14 am
great game…Hanson looked good…McClouth hung in there. Glaus and McCann are a force. Goodnight ABT.
80
Will Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 9:16 am
Hammy & Leah, they do recaps on http://www.pajiba.com and are saying this episode was bad…i disagree..loved it. Now, goodnight ABT!
81
Princess Leah Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 9:25 am
Good night Will as I drink my second cup of coffee. And Hammy, stop being such a perv on the Lost site or I won’t be able to participate…and I’ll tell Steve what you said about his ole lady.
82
Steve Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 9:54 am
Will – I like the fact that McLouth not striking out (not getting any hits, mind you) now qualifies as “hanging in there.”

Anne – in referencing my 50% chance that Smoltz will pitch again. See Jeff Schultz’s latest. See, I’m a genius! http://tinyurl.com/yzwj6kb
83
Bubdylan Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 10:45 am
I remember the weeks of “hanging tough” we credited Francoeur with when he was making more contact, taking more pitches (randomly taking pitches, never seemed to have anything to do with whether a strike was coming or not). Generally ending in dribblers to the SS or fly outs to three steps in front of the outfielders. Strike out machine became a GIDP machine. Sort of burned me out on the hanging-in-there joy.

I hope we see alternate lead-offs continue through the rest of Spring. I think even Bobby Cox can learn if the lesson is emphatic enough. And Kelly Johnson/Jeff Francoeur surely, SURELY will give him pause about his famous patience, with all the potential of returning to the playoffs in the balance.

Not giving up on Nate, but something is way, way wrong. Another week or ten days of this and I’m thinking Minor League assignment to regain his stroke. I’m not buying the “just my timing” argument much longer. Trusting players (especially non-veterans) to have the best handle on their own struggles has never seemed smart to me. Even in regular life, outside eyes see what we can’t. Get some help, Natester. McCann’s dad or Chipper’s dad. Even, Lord help us, Terry Pendleton.

Let’s get this solved so we can enter the season with a solid game plan. C’mon, Bobby. Take charge.
84
Bubdylan Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 11:35 am
Morbid curiosity led me to the official Jeff Francoeur blog. He doesn’t write in it much, but man, when he does: “blah blah Atlanta blah blah in Atlanta blah blah to Atlanta Atlanta blah.” He’s not being obnoxious about it. It’s just very clear how much an Atlantan he still is. For the first time, I feel really sad, maybe even a little tragic, about it. It’s his own damn fault. But I doubt there’s ever been a player more loyal to a city & club than that guy. Even if that loyalty was built around some delusional dream of his own role in the city/ club.

I’m comforted by this: it’s much, much better that he fell on his face than moderately succeeded. He’d have never accepted a non-star role or non-star money. Offseason contract tension all over the place. His awkward, hyper quotes would be a part of our daily lives. He’d be giving advice to Heyward, McLouth, all the new kids – while their eyes rolling behind his back. The kind of guy that makes work a drag even when it’s baseball. Comparatively, Yunel’s antics are easier to absorb than that.

I give him props for smiling through the Mets trade. But I imagine it was an unbelievable blow to the guy. All those dreams. Traded to your rival team. In New York. And not even to the Yankees.

I guess I’m going soft. It’s temporary? I can’t wish him well while he’s in that city. But can I go on relishing his failure?

*waits five minutes for another press release of Francoeur quotes*

Probably so.
85
Hammy Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 11:51 am
Wilbur – I will see your Lost recap and raise you a http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,20313460_20352243,00.html.

I am with you on WTF with all of the dissing on Lost this season. What do people want? To have Sawyer or Kate (or whoever does it for you) come out of the television and make out with you. I think the expectations for this season are beyond realistic. I am digging it.

The whole McLouth thing is putting a big damper on my outlook for the season. Such a pivotal role – such disastrous spring. Don’t trust our fearless skipper to make a bold move. Even if we keep Nate in for his D and move him down in the order, who leads off? (And Steve, don’t say Garret Anderson – it’s just as implausible this year as it was last year.) Maybe Melky, but what if the OF is Diaz, the Kid, and McWhiff? Is it Diaz? YuniEsco? Very troubling.
86
Anne Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 11:52 am
Steve – you ARE a genius, but Smoltz should be broadcasting from his room at the rest home with Julio Franco. Retire, already. 50-1 = not long enough odds (for me).
87
Princess Leah Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 11:54 am
Going soft? Dude, you’ve been soft. Although I have to admit. I always want Jeff to do well at the plate but I always want the Mets to lose. We can’t all be sympathizers.
88
Bubdylan Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 12:03 pm
Am not soft.
89
Bubdylan Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 12:25 pm
Nate with a failed bunt/ strike out.
90
Bubdylan Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 12:33 pm
Hudson strikes out two in the 2nd inning, third out on a fly. 3 Grounders in the first. Nice.
91
Bubdylan Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 12:43 pm
Chipper goes yard. I’m calling it right now. I’m just not hitting submit until it happens.
92
Bubdylan Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 12:44 pm
I swear that really happened. I swear it.
93
Bubdylan Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 12:50 pm
Nate’s second K.

.033

Close to half his at-bats are strike outs.
94
Princess Leah Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 1:57 pm
How many at bats would it take for Nate to get back to .000?
95
Princess Leah Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 3:22 pm
Ok…one tee tiny Lost comment. Where is Doc Jensen’s blog this week? I read his little mini blog but where is the real one? Slacker. Note to Sayid, help a sister out when she has a knife to her throat that’s being held by a crazy woman in desperate need of hair products. Also, I love the scene where Little House on the Prairie gets to James Ford and makes him revisit his lady friend. I start off watching an episode of that show thinking how corny it is and end up shedding real tears before it’s over.

I am aware of the fact that this comment will cause all you unlosties to think I’m a buffoon and…I’m ok with that.
96
Steve Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 3:47 pm
Hammy – whoa, whoa, whoa. Hold it right there. My hair-brained recommendation about lead off hitter last year was Kotchman (which I still stand behind). Not GA. C’mon, man – that’s insulting.
97
Bubdylan Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 5:56 pm
Leah, Nate would have to go hitless over the next 1,969 bats to get back to .000

That would make him 1 for 2,001, which is a batting average of .00049975, which rounds down to .000

Any fewer at bats than that and he would maintain at least a .001
98
Kathryn Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 6:04 pm
Did anyone watch MLB network 30 in 30 on the Braves? Hazel Mae asked Jay Hey what type of player he is and Jason responded “a baseball player.”

Maybe McLouth is struggling because he is still adjusting the his new jersey number.
99
Curt Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 7:39 pm
Its all about the Murray State Racers right now people. I have them in my Sweet 16.
100
Tcc Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 7:45 pm
Curt, I picked the Racers to win today, but then to lose to UTEP..ruh roh..
101
Princess Leah Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 7:55 pm
And how many games approximately would it take to go 1 and 2001? Just trying to, ya know, prepare for the worst case scenario.
102
BC Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 8:42 pm
C’mon Nate, C’mon kid!
103
Bubdylan Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 8:46 pm
Leah, it takes 3+ years at lead off to accumulate 2000 non-hits. Technically speaking, a .000 average with a hit is completely impossible.

But don’t fret, Rob Deer’s record .179 batting average average (with minimum # of at bats to qualify) from 1991 is well within Nate’s reach. If only he can find a patient manager.
104
Steve Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 9:36 pm
Kathryn – I missed the 30 in 30. LOVE that answer from Heyward. What an exciting time to be a Braves fan!

How was the rest of the show? Fluff? Revealing?
105
Bubdylan Says:
March 18th, 2010 at 10:02 pm
“Hazel Mae asked Jay Hey what type of player he is and Jason responded “a baseball player.”

That’s top drawer, seriously. A quote that’ll be at the top of the list when he’s a superstar. And you saw it when it happened. Way cool.

Heyward’s such a story I think I could get into him even if he played for another team.
106
Kathryn Says:
March 19th, 2010 at 6:56 am
Steve – They did interviews with Huddy, Wagner, Chipper, Heyward, and Glavine. Huddy talked about TJ surgery and how good he feels. Chipper talked about what went wrong last year and what he’s doing to improve. Hazel Mae asked Tommy G what his new job is and he said they’re still trying to figure it out. Only other interesting thing they did (that I remember) was count down the prime 9 moments in Braves history.
107
Curt Says:
March 19th, 2010 at 7:57 am
Should we think about what those 9 things were? Beyond winning the WS and Sid’s slide? Moving to Atlanta from Milwaukee? That’s an interesting one. Good and bad? Or just good?
108
Curt Says:
March 19th, 2010 at 8:00 am
any interest in Elijah Dukes?
109
Kathryn Says:
March 19th, 2010 at 8:35 am
I don’t remember all 9 of them but here’s what I do remember. Andruw hitting 2 HRs in a game in the 96 WS. The slide. Aarons walk-off HR to clinch the pennant. #2 was the 95 WS. #1 was Aarons 715th HR.
110
Princess Leah Says:
March 19th, 2010 at 8:59 am
Here I sit in a house with all this cable and I missed it. That’s cool Kathryn thanks for sharing! If I never post another comment it’s because I didn’t survive a roller skating trip with 6 kids.
111
Hammy Says:
March 19th, 2010 at 9:53 am
Stevie – First, apologies for misrepresenting you. In light of my errors, I won’t make any comments about the prospect of Kotchman leading off.

I watched the 30 in 30 also and it got me even more pumped about the season. I liked the Hudson interview a lot. I will save my thoughts for the season preview show which is coming soon.
112
Hammy Says:
March 19th, 2010 at 9:53 am
and NO – absolutely no interest in Elijah Dukes.
113
Steve Says:
March 19th, 2010 at 9:59 am
Yeah, NO. The Nats can say all they want that he was released solely for on the field performance. But, given that a team needs to clarify that a surprise, middle of ST dismissal was only related to performance confirms, 100%, that he’s a whack-job/club house cancer.
114
Curt Says:
March 19th, 2010 at 11:44 am
so he’s a Met come next week?
115
Curt Says:
March 19th, 2010 at 11:47 am
I think we need to trade for Tremell Sledge, and apologies as i butcher the spelling of his name, just so i can say Tremell Sledge all season long.
116
Steve Says:
March 19th, 2010 at 12:24 pm
New show on Sunday. Interview with DOB from Spring Training. If you have any questions, any particular topics you’d be interested in us asking about, please post them here. Thanks.
117
Kathryn Says:
March 19th, 2010 at 3:11 pm
Here’s a link to the Braves 30 in 30.

http://mlb.mlb.com/media/video.jsp?content_id=7198939
118
Princess Leah Says:
March 19th, 2010 at 4:57 pm
What does DOB like in his coffee, I like to be prepared.
119
Princess Leah Says:
March 19th, 2010 at 6:31 pm
Ahem…
120
Bubdylan Says:
March 19th, 2010 at 10:08 pm
Leah, we would be much, MUCH better off if we had signed Johnny Damon. No question about it. A total regret.

Damon
Heyward
Chipper
Glaus
McCann
Prado
Melky
Diaz

That would be a very potent line up.

I have never been more completely converted on a point than this one.
121
Bubdylan Says:
March 19th, 2010 at 10:10 pm
I’m retarded. Four outfielders and left out one of our studs.

Damon
Heyward
Chipper
Glaus
McCann
Escobar
Prado
Melky

Damn. That’s sexy. Oh well.
122
Princess Leah Says:
March 19th, 2010 at 10:19 pm
Thanks Bub. Takes a big man to admit when he’s wrong. Maybe McLouth will come around…very very soon.
Congrats Curt on GT.
123
Curt Says:
March 19th, 2010 at 10:23 pm
Thanks. Great game.
124
Bubdylan Says:
March 19th, 2010 at 10:24 pm
I think McLouth should try glasses. It couldn’t hurt anything. Not buying the complete dismissal of the contacts being a problem.
125
Bubdylan Says:
March 19th, 2010 at 10:31 pm
Proctor signing looking very strong.
126
Princess Leah Says:
March 19th, 2010 at 10:35 pm
Glasses not a bad i-dea. I wonder if it’s awkward for the DOBs to talk to a player struggling like Nate. Do they just walk up and say, “Dude, you suck.”
127
Curt Says:
March 20th, 2010 at 11:39 am
I did. They don’t talk to you much after that opening.
128
Bubdylan Says:
March 20th, 2010 at 12:16 pm
“Speaking of Schafer, talked to a team official today, and they’re counting on him being able to help the big club by midseason.” -DOB

That’s interesting.
129
Bubdylan Says:
March 20th, 2010 at 2:57 pm
What a terrible ballgame.
130
Princess Leah Says:
March 20th, 2010 at 3:37 pm
Manny being Manny.
131
Bubdylan Says:
March 20th, 2010 at 5:31 pm
Re: Heyward’s hitless day:

“Well, Mickey Mantle,Willie Mays and Hank Aaron did it,” manager Bobby Cox said.

Good job, Bobby. Good job. So, the answer to the question Heyward’s gotta be askin’ himself: “What have I got to do to get Bobby to stop inducting me into the HOF before my first MLB game?” apparently isn’t “go hitless.”

I mean, he was still being a little careful when he first laid down his sound-off-the-bat Hank Aaron comment, but now it’s like he’s just thrown that out the window. Is Bobby about to become a caricature of himself? It’s like if Elvis just started saying “mama” after every single sentence he spoke.
132
Bubdylan Says:
March 20th, 2010 at 6:53 pm
Wow. Have fun with the DOB interview now.

That’s the first one of those I’ve ever seen.
133
Bubdylan Says:
March 20th, 2010 at 6:55 pm
Oh, nevermind. I thought this was the first round. I rarely watch. Still a huge upset, but I thought I was seeing a #16 beat a #1.
134
Steve Says:
March 20th, 2010 at 9:31 pm
Bub – seriously, I know. I have small worry that the KU upset will affect the interview tomorrow. He’s gone silent for over 4 hours on his blog, have you noticed?
135
Princess Leah Says:
March 20th, 2010 at 9:32 pm
Just found out that my Great Great Grandfather was murdered by the mob. My husband has a new found respect for me.
136
Steve Says:
March 20th, 2010 at 9:48 pm
Leah – have you embarked on some family tree search or did this come up in some other way? You’re clearly a badass, by the way.
137
Princess Leah Says:
March 20th, 2010 at 9:52 pm
Steve, my mom recently took a trip with her Aunt and got the scoop. We had always been told that he was robbed and his throat was slit under the boardwalk, but not by the sea. Now we know the whole truth. I’m so glad to hear you recognize my general badassness.
138
Bubdylan Says:
March 20th, 2010 at 10:20 pm
“his throat was slit under the boardwalk, but not by the sea.”

That was so unexpected given the subject matter I cackled out loud.

Steve, DOB’s bloggin’ now. Putting on his best “moving on” face. I ain’t buyin’ it.

[Steve, trying to ask about Jason Hewyard:] “So, David, what about that Ja…”

DOB: “I DON’T GIVE A CRAP ABOUT THE JAYHAWKS GAME. IT’S OVER! CAN WE MOVE ON? I HAVE!!”
139
Bubdylan Says:
March 20th, 2010 at 10:22 pm
Rookie Name Fail.
140
Princess Leah Says:
March 21st, 2010 at 12:07 pm
Come on Nate! I believe!
141
Bubdylan Says:
March 21st, 2010 at 12:37 pm
Nate’s batting in the minors.

Can you believe DOB’s choice of McLouth photos? Cracked my ass up.

http://blogs.ajc.com/atlanta-braves-blog/2010/03/21/mclouth-goes-to-minors-for-a-day-braves-make-cuts/
142
Princess Leah Says:
March 21st, 2010 at 12:50 pm
I know Bubdylan. I’m just really hoping he gets some hits today cause what happens next if he doesn’t?
143
Princess Leah Says:
March 21st, 2010 at 12:51 pm
Speaking of pictures…does anyone else find slow motion shots of pitchers a little disturbing?
144
Anne Says:
March 21st, 2010 at 1:08 pm
If by “disturbing,” you mean fascinatingly odd and great all at the same time, then YES! Speaking of pitchers, I hear good things about Dontrelle Willis this spring. He grew up in my ‘hood (many years after me) and I’ve been sick about his troubles of late. Hope he gets it together for real and can help the Tigers.
145
Bubdylan Says:
March 21st, 2010 at 1:16 pm
“McLouth just got a hit off Zeke Spruill on the back fields. He got to first and pointed toward the heavens for finally getting a hit. Funny.”

That’s from Mr. Shanks, Leah. Also he got a double. Don’t know what else.

Anne, I don’t know a single fan that isn’t pulling for the D Train. One of the most likeable and charismatic faces of baseball. Would be the story of the year if he could pull it together.
146
Princess Leah Says:
March 21st, 2010 at 1:26 pm
Yeah!!!! Keep us posted Bub!
147
Bubdylan Says:
March 21st, 2010 at 1:42 pm
“McLouth had three hits and a walk in four PAs today, for what that’s worth. Hit the ball hard a few times, they said.” -DOB

“For what it’s worth.”

“They said.”

Vibes, vibes, vibes.
148
Bubdylan Says:
March 21st, 2010 at 1:44 pm
… or my own paranoia. Can’t rule that out. 8)
149
Bubdylan Says:
March 21st, 2010 at 1:47 pm
Knee Jerk Reaction of the Day:

Out from under Terry Pendleton’s “tuck this, lift that, be tall, don’t shift,” McLouth relaxed and put wood on the ball. The difference between 3 for 3 with a walk and 1 for 35 isn’t minor league pitching.

Unless, of course, they had the minor leaguers throwing straight on purpose.
150
Princess Leah Says:
March 21st, 2010 at 2:18 pm
So seriously you don’t think the minor league pitchers made the difference? If not, does that really say something unpleasant about our hitting couch? Logic would seem to point to one or the other but I’m willing to entertain a third option.
151
Bubdylan Says:
March 21st, 2010 at 2:32 pm
I think Terry P is very, very, very bad.
152
Princess Leah Says:
March 21st, 2010 at 2:44 pm
Poo.
153
Bubdylan Says:
March 21st, 2010 at 3:31 pm
Oh, McLouth was 3 for 5 with a walk. 6 At bats total. My bad.
154
Bubdylan Says:
March 21st, 2010 at 5:22 pm
For the next four years:

Mauer: 23 million per

McCann: 8.1 million per
155
Curt Says:
March 21st, 2010 at 5:25 pm
I was lobbying for the Braves to go and get Willis last year. I’m sure he could have been had for nothing with the Tigers eating a lot of contract. Guy has too much stuff and demeanor not to get it together and would loved to have seen the Braves benefit from that rebirth. Good for him either way.

Poor Crash Davis. Back to the minors for he.
156
Bubdylan Says:
March 21st, 2010 at 5:37 pm
If I’m understanding this, the Twins just shelled out an amount equal to 35% of their entire 2009 payroll for one player.
157
Bubdylan Says:
March 21st, 2010 at 6:49 pm
Tiger on the front page of ESPN during the tourney = BS.

Caption: “I’ve done some pretty bad things.”

Now, Tiger, surely they weren’t all the way to the “pretty bad” level. You’re exaggerating.
158
Steve Says:
March 21st, 2010 at 8:19 pm
Just finished up with DOB. And it was a terrific interview. Lots of great stuff about the team and his blog. Ham and I were pretty fired up about it when it was over. Show will be up in an hour or so.
159
Curt Says:
March 21st, 2010 at 8:39 pm
Glad you got rid of that hack 3rd guy.
160
Princess Leah Says:
March 21st, 2010 at 8:41 pm
Cream? Raw sugar or white? Must it be cubed?

Show #97: Top 9 Storylines from Braves Spring Training

160 Responses to “Show #97: Top 9 Storylines from Braves Spring Training”

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