Braves Baseball

[dollfus46]

Anybody want to start chatting about Braves baseball? ST starts on the 14th. New players, new depth chart, new rooks trying to make the club. New GM. Gonna be a fun year for the Atlanta Braves fans I think. Can Mark Teixeira replace Andruw's power? Can Mark Kotsay or John Anderson replace Andruw's coverage of CF and his arm? Is the Chipster going to have another great year? Will he play as many as 120 games unhurt? Who's going to be the lead-off hitter? Who's playing SS? 2nd base? Will Brandon Jones make the club as a rook? Was bringing Tom Glavine back, a huge screw up? Will McCann hit .280 and drive in 100 runs as a catcher? Are you ready to help Booby Cox pack his bags? Or, are you all a bunch of wussies, too stupid to understand the finer points of the game?:smt118
More potential arguments here than any political thread could hope for.:smt023

[Echo Four Bravo]

Now, you're speaking my language Dollfus. I kind of go into a depression between the last out of one season until the first pitch of the next. I think Tex has already replaced Andruw's bat in the lineup. I don't know much about Kotsay, but I'd have to guess that he won't have the same speed, range or instincts of Jones. Hopefully he will be sufficient.
Bobby still has plenty of good years left, as long as he doesn't lose his passion for managing. I hope Chipper's feet don't let him down this year, I know he'll give it all he's got regardless. He is tremendously underrated by the rest of baseball. Maybe Glavine's got one more left in him. I was kind of upset with him for going to the Mets in the first place, but I'm willing to forgive him. You mentioned SS, has something happened with Renteria?

[Mike'sGirl]

Hey, Dollfus, I told you my Mike was 'one of us'. :-)

[dollfus46]

Now, you're speaking my language Dollfus. I kind of go into a depression between the last out of one season until the first pitch of the next. I think Tex has already replaced Andruw's bat in the lineup. I don't know much about Kotsay, but I'd have to guess that he won't have the same speed, range or instincts of Jones. Hopefully he will be sufficient.
Bobby still has plenty of good years left, as long as he doesn't lose his passion for managing. I hope Chipper's feet don't let him down this year, I know he'll give it all he's got regardless. He is tremendously underrated by the rest of baseball. Maybe Glavine's got one more left in him. I was kind of upset with him for going to the Mets in the first place, but I'm willing to forgive him. You mentioned SS, has something happened with Renteria?
Yep, we traded Renny. We have Infante and Escobar for a whole lot less money. But I'm torn about that. You want to trade a player when you can get the most out of him but that conflicts with trading a guy that has just had a huge season like Renteria. But he was a free agent and we had to keep Tex for 14 mil. One thing about Ted Turner.....he had deep pockets. These conglomerates who own teams now want tax write-offs. They don't want to spend money. It's a shame.
As for Chipper, I ono. I'd bet he's a first round Hall of Famer. Kotsay was a fine player but I haven't kept up with him. Andruw had been slowing down a lot with age and weight. He couldn't cover CF like he could and he doesn't have the arm of a Francoeur. We were paying Andruw, what, 14 mil? And he was a free agent looking for a raise? He wasn't worth 14 mil anymore much less more. Course, no one in NL has the arm Francoeur has either. Heh heh heh.
Go to atlantabraves.com and you can see all the transactions that have taken place and check out the 40 man roster and the depth chart for 08.
We have a serious baseball team this coming season. And young. Braves are still making great draft choices and bringing up youngsters who can play for less money than any team in baseball. Great organization. I'm jacked. Glad to have you as a Braves fan echo. Not many Braves fans here but the ones we have are loud and passionate. You're the fourth I've found. Maybe we'll find more.:clap:

[Engelbert Humperdinck]

The Atlanta Braves Suck!


Go Cubs!

:smt023:-D:bowrofl:

[Conveyor Belt]

Baseball is boring. They should be allowed to carry the bat around to all the bases and hit each other. Oh, he threw the ball... wait. he threw the ball again... wait... he threw the ball and the guy hit it, but it was foul... wait.. ugh... I'm bored.

[fuzzis]

Oh, I love baseball. There's no finer way to spend an afternoon.

Pitchers and catchers report in just 8 short days now...except apparently my Royals are reporting this Thursday. We have a new manager. I'm hopefully every year, but I also know our history. We suck. That's OK. I still love them. :smt050

[Mike'sGirl]

Baseball is boring. They should be allowed to carry the bat around to all the bases and hit each other. Oh, he threw the ball... wait. he threw the ball again... wait... he threw the ball and the guy hit it, but it was foul... wait.. ugh... I'm bored.


I'm so sorry you don't understand the complexity of the game. I pray that someone will someday 'show you the light'. Poor Convery Belt! :cry:

[MMA]

Come on up to Pearl and watch the Mississippi Braves, class organization, less travel than Atlanta, less crime than Atlanta and a lot more fun. Good environment for the kids, take my two grandsons quite a bit, never a bad experience.

[dollfus46]

Come on up to Pearl and watch the Mississippi Braves, class organization, less travel than Atlanta, less crime than Atlanta and a lot more fun. Good environment for the kids, take my two grandsons quite a bit, never a bad experience.

Problem with that MMB is that I live in Greenville SC. We lost the AA Braves to Pearl after 20 years. I had weekend season tickets. I've been sick ever since. Our tickets were a lot less than Pearls. Difference is you're paying for a new stadium. Boston Red Sox built a new stadium here so we ended up with, not a AA Red Sox affiliate, not a high A affiliate, but a friggin' LOW A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox. I don't care about AL baseball with it's sissyassed DH rule to begin with, but a bunch of kids a Clemson Tiger team can whip everyday. I just want to puke.

[dollfus46]

Oh, I love baseball. There's no finer way to spend an afternoon.

Pitchers and catchers report in just 8 short days now...except apparently my Royals are reporting this Thursday. We have a new manager. I'm hopefully every year, but I also know our history. We suck. That's OK. I still love them. :smt050
Unfortunately you're in a very small baseball market and can't the funding to pay for top players like a New York Yankees or a Boston Red Sox or NY Mutts.

[Echo Four Bravo]

Come on up to Pearl and watch the Mississippi Braves, class organization, less travel than Atlanta, less crime than Atlanta and a lot more fun. Good environment for the kids, take my two grandsons quite a bit, never a bad experience.

We did just that last season on July 4th, and had a great time. There were a lot of activities for the kids, it's a really nice ballpark, the cost for the entire trip was very reasonable, and they put on one heck of a fireworks show after the game. They park employees were very friendly, and we even saw a really good game. We'll be back.:smt023

[Echo Four Bravo]

Oh, I love baseball. There's no finer way to spend an afternoon.

Pitchers and catchers report in just 8 short days now...except apparently my Royals are reporting this Thursday. We have a new manager. I'm hopefully every year, but I also know our history. We suck. That's OK. I still love them. :smt050

Don't worry Fuzzis, if you don't support your team when they're not winning, you aren't much of a fan anyway. Trust me, I started following the Braves back in the 80's when they were a joke.;)

[dollfus46]

Don't worry Fuzzis, if you don't support your team when they're not winning, you aren't much of a fan anyway. Trust me, I started following the Braves back in the 80's when they were a joke.;)
I remember going to the game in Atlanta without tickets. Getting there thirty minutes before game time and getting front row seats. 3,000 to 3,500 in attendence. I'm legit.:smt023 That was back at old Fulton County Stadium. I'd take my son, drive to Atlanta, stay at the Sheraton Airport. They'd free shuttle me to the airport where we'd catch Marta to the stadium. Ride Marta back to the airport and call the Sheraton to pick us up. I lived in Florence SC then.

[Echo Four Bravo]

I remember going to the game in Atlanta without tickets. Getting there thirty minutes before game time and getting front row seats. 3,000 to 3,500 in attendence. I'm legit.:smt023 That was back at old Fulton County Stadium. I'd take my son, drive to Atlanta, stay at the Sheraton Airport. They'd free shuttle me to the airport where we'd catch Marta to the stadium. Ride Marta back to the airport and call the Sheraton to pick us up. I lived in Florence SC then.

Do you remember how suffocatingly hot it would get in Fulton County Stadium? I was happy to pay $3.00 for a warm 20 oz. Sprite.

[dollfus46]

Do you remember how suffocatingly hot it would get in Fulton County Stadium? I was happy to pay $3.00 for a warm 20 oz. Sprite.
I do remember? No. I'm the one who has to post the note on the front door when I leave, "Check your Fly". Old age is hell. I do remember being such a bumpkin that the first time I went to a Braves game, I forgot to watch the real game. I was so fascinated by all the electronics and replay boards that I watched the entire game on the big screen. :kekeke: It was the Bravos/Montreal. The Big Cat played for the Expos then before he became a Brave. Can't recall his name. Just his nickname. I was there when the Niekro brothers faced each other Braves/Houston and Phil pitched the last shutout of his career. That was nice.

[Echo Four Bravo]

I do remember? No. I'm the one who has to post the note on the front door when I leave, "Check your Fly". Old age is hell. I do remember being such a bumpkin that the first time I went to a Braves game, I forgot to watch the real game. I was so fascinated by all the electronics and replay boards that I watched the entire game on the big screen. :kekeke: It was the Bravos/Montreal. The Big Cat played for the Expos then before he became a Brave. Can't recall his name. Just his nickname. I was there when the Niekro brothers faced each other Braves/Houston and Phil pitched the last shutout of his career. That was nice.
Andres Gallaraga

[dollfus46]

Andres Gallaraga

I knew that. Heh heh heh. Little Ensley called him Gagaraga. I love kids.:smt023

[dollfus46]

D'ju see Andres charge the mound that afternoon he got hit by a pitch? Good Lord, the haymaker he threw at that pitcher would have decapitated him had it connected. That was back when everybody was pitching him inside and he ad been hit like 18 times and had had enough.

[Natural Sunshine]

I'm ready for BASEBALL.....GO BRAVES!!!!

[Mike'sGirl]

I knew that. Heh heh heh. Little Ensley called him Gagaraga. I love kids.:smt023


That's okay.....I couldn't pronounce it either. :smt009

[dollfus46]

That's okay.....I couldn't pronounce it either. :smt009
That's a breeze compared to Saltalamachia. Heh heh heh. And I think I've left two letters out of his name.:bowrofl:

[Echo Four Bravo]

D'ju see Andres charge the mound that afternoon he got hit by a pitch? Good Lord, the haymaker he threw at that pitcher would have decapitated him had it connected. That was back when everybody was pitching him inside and he ad been hit like 18 times and had had enough.
Yeah, I remember that. The Cat is HUGE, I would duck a punch from him too. The funniest charging the mound incident has to be when Robin Ventura came after Nolan Ryan, though. Ryan immediately put him in a headlock, and popped him in the face about 8 times before Ventura knew what happened.:kekeke:

[dollfus46]

Yeah, I remember that. The Cat is HUGE, I would duck a punch from him too. The funniest charging the mound incident has to be when Robin Ventura came after Nolan Ryan, though. Ryan immediately put him in a headlock, and popped him in the face about 8 times before Ventura knew what happened.:kekeke:

I remember. I think Ventura was like in his first or second year. Who the hell did he think he was? Some rook, charging a legend like that. Arrogant and stupid.
Is Glavine going to give us one more year of starting rotation quality pitching? I can only pray. Maybe he's needed more in the bullpen for the rook pitchers we have. I ono. The price had to be right to bring him back, but the Braves are (in)famous for that crap. Trade a guy, then bring him back for more money and less ability. Go figure.

[Echo Four Bravo]

I remember. I think Ventura was like in his first or second year. Who the hell did he think he was? Some rook, charging a legend like that. Arrogant and stupid.
Is Glavine going to give us one more year of starting rotation quality pitching? I can only pray. Maybe he's needed more in the bullpen for the rook pitchers we have. I ono. The price had to be right to bring him back, but the Braves are (in)famous for that crap. Trade a guy, then bring him back for more money and less ability. Go figure.
I think Glavine will be OK, he's always had good pitching mechanics that are easy on the arm. The thing that has always bothered me about him is his stubbornness when he gets behind on a batter. He would rather walk in a run than throw a strike sometimes. I know he doesn't have 95mph stuff, but that doesn't mean the batter is going to park one everytime you put it across the plate. Quit being so stubborn and trust your defense. The young pitchers would learn a lot more from Maddux.
Your right about them bringing back old players, sometimes it works, and sometimes it doesn't.

[dollfus46]

I think Glavine will be OK, he's always had good pitching mechanics that are easy on the arm. The thing that has always bothered me about him is his stubbornness when he gets behind on a batter. He would rather walk in a run than throw a strike sometimes. I know he doesn't have 95mph stuff, but that doesn't mean the batter is going to park one everytime you put it across the plate. Quit being so stubborn and trust your defense. The young pitchers would learn a lot more from Maddux.
Your right about them bringing back old players, sometimes it works, and sometimes it doesn't.
We all get bent all out of shape when the bullpen blows a game and the Braves were supposed to have a good bullpen last year. I never saw a good bullpen. But did you realize, we had the second best bullpen in the NL?! Somethink below 3.00 ERA. Like .295. Second best. I'd have lost my house if I had had to bet that one. My weakness is knowing pitching. I was an infielder my entire life and have zero pitching knowledge. But the 08 Braves bullpen is supposed to be better than it was last year. Glavine is expected to be the third starter. Soriano our closer. Hudson, Smoltz and Glavine starting with two more to fight for the last two spots. Chuck James should be one and we'll have to see if Hammy can toe the rubber. I think he's done, myself. Been out of baseball for 2 1/2 seasons. Not a bad way to make $14 million. Sitting around the house watching TV. I'll have to look but I think his contract is up in 08. What we could have done with his salary!

[Echo Four Bravo]

I remember the bullpen being very good last year. Moylan and Yates were particularly clutch. The pitchng problems were with the 4th and 5th starters, sometimes the 3rd. After Hudson and Smoltz, you just didn't know what kind of performance you were going to get.
I just don't know about Hampton, he's awful fragile. I think of all the good pitchers they've traded too soon over the years; Denny Naegle, Jason Marquis, What's-his-name that was with the Giants, etc etc.

[dollfus46]

I remember the bullpen being very good last year. Moylan and Yates were particularly clutch. The pitchng problems were with the 4th and 5th starters, sometimes the 3rd. After Hudson and Smoltz, you just didn't know what kind of performance you were going to get.
I just don't know about Hampton, he's awful fragile. I think of all the good pitchers they've traded too soon over the years; Denny Naegle, Jason Marquis, What's-his-name that was with the Giants, etc etc.
I never like Jason but I had a fit when we traded Denny. Course they blamed the pitching coach for Marquis's problems. If Rocky had left him alone he'd have been fine, but I didn't hear that until after we traded him. That was Rocky's short-coming. His way or the highway.

[Echo Four Bravo]

I never like Jason but I had a fit when we traded Denny. Course they blamed the pitching coach for Marquis's problems. If Rocky had left him alone he'd have been fine, but I didn't hear that until after we traded him. That was Rocky's short-coming. His way or the highway.
I must admit, I was pleasantly surprised when there wasn't much difference in the pitchers' performance after Mazzone left. I remember hearing that he lost his job with the O's after his buddy got fired this off-season. Were you as disappointed as I was in Bob Wickman's unraveling?

[dollfus46]

I must admit, I was pleasantly surprised when there wasn't much difference in the pitchers' performance after Mazzone left. I remember hearing that he lost his job with the O's after his buddy got fired this off-season. Were you as disappointed as I was in Bob Wickman's unraveling?

Yeah, I hated to seem Wickman emplode like that. He hadn't lost anything but location, location, location, that I could tell. I loved the guy. I'm not surprised Mazzone got canned. I'm not surprised he went to Baltimore either. He had no choice for twice the money and to be back home. I don't consider him a traitor or anything. The Braves were under-paying him, I thought. But he was hard-headed about his pitchers.
Where is Brayan Pena? He was the man behind McCann last year and now he's not even on the depth chart. Some guy named Sammons, I never heard of. I thought Pena was a perfect back-up. Salty had too much talent not to be starting for someone. I'd hate to be a back-up catcher. You'll never play. Too slow to be a pinch runner. Not enough bat to be a pinch hitter. But I thought Pena did a fine job behind the plate.

[Southern_Belle]

i am a Braves fan!!! Larry Wayne - that's Chipper for those of you who didn't know - is my MAN!!! LOVE him. i have an autographed baseball of his and an autographed 8X10 of his. i really hope to see his BA improve.

i also got my dad an autographed Tom Glavin ball. that is his fav.

my sister loves McCann.

and i am sad to see andruw go.

[Echo Four Bravo]

i am a Braves fan!!! Larry Wayne - that's Chipper for those of you who didn't know - is my MAN!!! LOVE him. i have an autographed baseball of his and an autographed 8X10 of his. i really hope to see his BA improve.

i also got my dad an autographed Tom Glavin ball. that is his fav.

my sister loves McCann.

and i am sad to see andruw go.

I always laugh when Chipper gets the "Laaaaaaarrrry, Laaaaaarrrrry" chant during road games.
My wife (MikesGirl) also is bummed about Andruw leaving.

[dollfus46]

i am a Braves fan!!! Larry Wayne - that's Chipper for those of you who didn't know - is my MAN!!! LOVE him. i have an autographed baseball of his and an autographed 8X10 of his. i really hope to see his BA improve.

i also got my dad an autographed Tom Glavin ball. that is his fav.

my sister loves McCann.

and i am sad to see andruw go.

Welcome aboard, Southern Belle. :smt023 The Chipster is a first round slam dunk for HOF. But I think his BA was great last year. Over .300 I'm pretty sure, and though he missed a ton of games due to injury, he came within a frog-hair of 100 rbi's again. He had a helluva year in 07. He makes the Braves go. No question.
I'm happy to see Andruw go. I liked his winning smile and lovable personality but he stayed way to long in my opinion. Like three years. Strictly business you know and with our dumbed down budget we can't afford him. Now, if we can just get out from under Hammy's $14 mil to sit on the sofa at home, we'll be set. This will be an exciting year for us Bravo Fans.

[dollfus46]

I always laugh when Chipper gets the "Laaaaaaarrrry, Laaaaaarrrrry" chant during road games.
My wife (MikesGirl) also is bummed about Andruw leaving.
Yeah, the Mutts started that when they found out he hates the name, Larry. Lets see how Kotsay does in Andruw's spot.

[Southern_Belle]

Welcome aboard, Southern Belle. :smt023 The Chipster is a first round slam dunk for HOF. But I think his BA was great last year. Over .300 I'm pretty sure, and though he missed a ton of games due to injury, he came within a frog-hair of 100 rbi's again. He had a helluva year in 07. He makes the Braves go. No question.
I'm happy to see Andruw go. I liked his winning smile and lovable personality but he stayed way to long in my opinion. Like three years. Strictly business you know and with our dumbed down budget we can't afford him. Now, if we can just get out from under Hammy's $14 mil to sit on the sofa at home, we'll be set. This will be an exciting year for us Bravo Fans.

it was over .300. i think he had something like .338... but still would like to see it go up. thanks for mentioning the injuries. sometimes i think he is a sissy b/c he seems to be out a lot of games due to injuries. i do not like hearing that he is on the DL at the beginning of games. i hope he stays well this season.

[dollfus46]

it was over .300. i think he had something like .338... but still would like to see it go up. thanks for mentioning the injuries. sometimes i think he is a sissy b/c he seems to be out a lot of games due to injuries. i do not like hearing that he is on the DL at the beginning of games. i hope he stays well this season.
People forget, he's getting up in age for an infielder. Injuries come more easily, and take longer to heal, and he's always had the attitude he didn't need to "take care of his body." He's a lot like Bret Favre. When he did play, he was in pain. And many times, Bobby makes the decision whether he should play. With quality back ups like the Braves had, no need taking a chance on hurting Chipper more by playing him. Both Aybar and Escobar were terrific at the position and not bad at all at the plate.

[Mike'sGirl]

i am a Braves fan!!! Larry Wayne - that's Chipper for those of you who didn't know - is my MAN!!! LOVE him. i have an autographed baseball of his and an autographed 8X10 of his. i really hope to see his BA improve.

i also got my dad an autographed Tom Glavin ball. that is his fav.

my sister loves McCann.

and i am sad to see andruw go.


Hi Southern Belle! Nice to have another lady in Braves territory! I will miss Andruw a lot too. I just love his demeanor and smile no matter what's going on. I've never seen him show his temper or get bent-out-of-shape when things didn't go his way. It probably was time for him to go, but I think he's just a great personality and a sweet guy. I will still keep an eye on him out in California. :clap:

[dollfus46]

Kotsay, who's 'sposed to replace Andruw had back surgery and played in only 56 games last year. Let's keep our fingers crossed he comes back.
I'm only concerned with the starting 5 pitchers. The bullpen should be great and the 8 position players should be as good as any in the game, defensively and offensively.
Starting pitching is hope and a prayer as far as I'm concerned.
Smoltz- Can he do it one more year?
Tim Hudson - Should be an all-star again
Tom Glavine - has he got another year in his arm?
Mike Hammond - can he come back after missing 2 1/2 years of starts and two
elbow surgeries?
Those are supposed to be the starting four. Can be awesome or shaky. We don't know
The fifth starter will be between
Jair Jurrgens - a top prospect we got from Detroit for Edgar Renteria
Jo Jo Reyes - pitched well last year for us
Chuck James - pitched very well last year for us
Jeff Bennett - A rook

Closer will be Soriano. I'm happy with him.

Anybody see it differently?
Oh, word is, Booby Cox will retire after this season. Praise Buddha. I'd imagine Terry Pendleton will replace him. I hope so. I like Pendleton's work ethic and "want to".

[Echo Four Bravo]

I think (hope) Hudson, Smoltz and Glavine will be alright. They'll feed off of each other's success. Hampton and the 5th man will be the question mark. In Hampton's case, it's just a question of whether or not he's physically able to still pitch. Chuck James strikes me as one of those who's psychological make-up is kinda fragile. If he's struggling early, it gets to him, and his control suffers. I remember him having several very short outings last season. Soriano is ok, I'd rather have somebody who is more overpowering though.
I think Bobby is still a good manager, he may not run the team the way some would like, but he gets results. I know, they haven't been serious contenders for the Series in several years, but they do pretty good for a team without "superstars".

[dollfus46]

I think (hope) Hudson, Smoltz and Glavine will be alright. They'll feed off of each other's success. Hampton and the 5th man will be the question mark. In Hampton's case, it's just a question of whether or not he's physically able to still pitch. Chuck James strikes me as one of those who's psychological make-up is kinda fragile. If he's struggling early, it gets to him, and his control suffers. I remember him having several very short outings last season. Soriano is ok, I'd rather have somebody who is more overpowering though.
I think Bobby is still a good manager, he may not run the team the way some would like, but he gets results. I know, they haven't been serious contenders for the Series in several years, but they do pretty good for a team without "superstars".
I think Schuerholz has done a magnificant job with a $90 mil payroll or somewhere around there. Not the Yankees with over $200 mil and not KC with prbably $30 + mil. I'll have to look that up. I'm not up to date on the salaries of other teams. I'm a Braves fan, not a baseball fan. Heh heh heh. So Schuerholz has been brilliant. And the last two years, even though we didn't make the playoffs, we had a fun fun season watching the rooks play so well. McCann, Frenchie, Harris, Diaz, Kelly Johnson, Escobar. It was a blast. Couldn't have had more fun. This year is going to be just like the last two, with a real shot at a NLC playoff spot.
Chuck James will be a bit more experienced than last year. So hopefully he'll come into his own. I don't know these two new guys at all. Even if Hammy is strong, I worry about his age and toughness now. He says he feels really great. He was a terrific competitor three years ago. He's still a question mark. We'll know more at the end of spring training, won't we. I'd love to catch a couple of games at Disney World. Those suckers are sold out usually. I'm counting on the four Hattiesburg fans to go up to Pearl and give me a report on who's hot up there this summer. It's really fun to watch them at Pearl, then see them on TV in the Show. Only one left on the Braves I saw come through Greenville was Kelly Johnson. James Jurris is at Richmond and has had a cup of coffee in the majors. He came through here. Pete Orr was another. Giles another. Brayan Pena too. Chipper, Javy Lopez, and Andruw came through before I moved here but I saw them when they were at AAA Richmond when they came down to Charlotte to play the Knights, who were a Cleveland Indian franchise back then.

[dollfus46]

Looks like the Bravos have not yet thought about a replacement for Cox. They don't want to face the challlenge yet.
You all remember our resident nut case - John Rocker? He's at it again. He said, Commissioner Bud Selig should do the world a favor and kill himself. Heh heh heh. No comment.

[dollfus46]

:smt015 I think I'll mosey on over to the Braves Message Boards and talk some Braves Baseball.

[dollfus46]

Looks like the Braves will lack speed on the bases once again in 08. That's not good. Josh Anderson is the only one with "speed" and he's platooning with Diaz it appears. I knew the Braves have been slow but had no idea we didn't have one player with more than 17 SB's. I'm not a big stats kinda guy. I don't give a fat rat's ass if a guy hits 290 with bases empty. I want to know he hits 230 but 400 with men in scoring position. We'd better lead the league in BA though with no more speed than Josh Johnson. Orr had speed but couldn't hit. Released. Don't dare try to steal with Chipper. He's too fragile. Kotsay isn't fast. Tex either. Maybe Escobar will learn HOW to steal. He has over average speed. But he's no Jackie Robinson.

[dollfus46]

Looks like Blaine Boyer and his 96 mph fastball is back. That plus his curve is moving like crazy according to McDowell, the pitching coach. That's great news for the bullpen
Lillibridge, who was to be our shortstop before hurting his wrist, is back. Sounds like with Infante and Escobar at SS the Braves will be teaching Lillibridge how to play CF. He's too good to just let go.
I never realized Teixeira was a switch hitter. With him and Chipper both switch hitters in the middle of the lineup we should be a nightmare for opposing pitchers. I never knew that Chipper is one of only a few switch hitters who have batted .300, hit 30 homeruns, driven in 100 runs and have a .400 on base percentage, all in one year. He's done it 4 times! Mickey Mantle did it 3 times. Wow.

[Echo Four Bravo]

Looks like the Braves will lack speed on the bases once again in 08. That's not good. Josh Anderson is the only one with "speed" and he's platooning with Diaz it appears. I knew the Braves have been slow but had no idea we didn't have one player with more than 17 SB's. I'm not a big stats kinda guy. I don't give a fat rat's ass if a guy hits 290 with bases empty. I want to know he hits 230 but 400 with men in scoring position. We'd better lead the league in BA though with no more speed than Josh Johnson. Orr had speed but couldn't hit. Released. Don't dare try to steal with Chipper. He's too fragile. Kotsay isn't fast. Tex either. Maybe Escobar will learn HOW to steal. He has over average speed. But he's no Jackie Robinson.
What about Kelly Johnson? He's pretty fast. We didn't trade him, did we?
I hope not, because he has a beautiful swing.

[dollfus46]

We still have Kelly Johnson. I hope he beats out Prado. He's a great lead-off hitter. Cox isn't bright enough to start him in the lead off slot though. OBP is in the neighborhood of .436 I think. How do you bench someone like that who can play a fine 2nd base too? I think Escobar has Andruw syndrome between the ears. Andruw's baseball I.Q. and his hat size were a match. JMO.

[Echo Four Bravo]

We still have Kelly Johnson. I hope he beats out Prado. He's a great lead-off hitter. Cox isn't bright enough to start him in the lead off slot though. OBP is in the neighborhood of .436 I think. How do you bench someone like that who can play a fine 2nd base too? I think Escobar has Andruw syndrome between the ears. Andruw's baseball I.Q. and his hat size were a match. JMO.
The thing that always bothered me about Andruw is the way he just shuffled around in the outfield and on the bases, looked like about half-speed. The excuse was always: "he's so fast, he doesn't have to go all-out to get to the ball, leg out a double etc". Well maybe so, but that would have never worked with any coach I ever played for. If you don't hustle, I'd rather bench you and play someone with less natural talent, but more desire.
As far as K. Johnson, I can only see him improving the more he plays, both offensively and defensively. He has the potential to be a truly great player.

[Mike'sGirl]

Do you think we'll see a change in Andrew's 'hustle-factor' in L.A.?
Maybe he got too comfortable in Atlanta.
It'll be interesting to see what happens.

[dollfus46]

The thing that always bothered me about Andruw is the way he just shuffled around in the outfield and on the bases, looked like about half-speed. The excuse was always: "he's so fast, he doesn't have to go all-out to get to the ball, leg out a double etc". Well maybe so, but that would have never worked with any coach I ever played for. If you don't hustle, I'd rather bench you and play someone with less natural talent, but more desire.
As far as K. Johnson, I can only see him improving the more he plays, both offensively and defensively. He has the potential to be a truly great player.
Yeah, Andruw got heavy and slow. Last season I saw several balls get over his head. How many times in the past did that EVER happen. Nada. He couldn't or wouldn't hit the ball to right field to move runners over. I'd bet a gold guinea he hit into more double plays to third and SS than anybody. No doubt, he was one of the best CF's to play the game for years. But I was ready to get rid of him about three years ago.
As for Kelly Johnson, he was a CF here in Greenville for the Braves. He had to be taught to play 2nd. Why go out and get Kotsay or teach Lillibridge to play it? I just don't understand Cox sometimes. A lot of the time. Okay, MOST of the time. I guess they keep trying to find a Chipper Jones for every infield position like Bama keeps trying to find another Bear Bryant. Won't happen.:(

[jojobeans1120]

After all of the years of getting to the world series and losing, I simply cannot get into Braves baseball any more. In all honestly, unless it is little league, I don't get into baseball at all. LOL
I enjoy watching Walter-man play, and that's usually the extent of my baseball watchin'.
Put on some LSU football and we'll do some talkin'! :smt023

[dollfus46]

After all of the years of getting to the world series and losing, I simply cannot get into Braves baseball any more. In all honestly, unless it is little league, I don't get into baseball at all. LOL
I enjoy watching Walter-man play, and that's usually the extent of my baseball watchin'.
Put on some LSU football and we'll do some talkin'! :smt023
Don't abandon us. :smt086 LSU won't will the national title every year either.

[dollfus46]

:woohoo: Braves vs. Dodgers tomorrow at 1:00 EST on ESPN. :smt041

[Echo Four Bravo]

Crap! Don't they know I'm at work then?:(

[dollfus46]

Crap! Don't they know I'm at work then?:(
Well, don't feel too badly. I agreed to take another day trip with my son. So I'll be on the road. We're going to Ninety-Six, SC and check out other small towns. Then end up around Batesburg/Leesburg, SC for the Southern Livings People's Choice for BBQ.:smt023 Andruw will dress out for the L.A. Dodgers. 10 to 1 he strikes out two times:clap:

[Echo Four Bravo]

I've been all over the Carolinas, and I've never heard of ninety-six. What's the story behind the name?

Andruw will probably strike out twice (1 screwing himself into the ground swinging, and 1 looking), ground into a dp and fly out to deep short with a man on third, but he'll be smilin'.

[Mike'sGirl]

I hope Andruw proves you both wrong. (he probably won't, but I still got good wishes going his way).
I guess we'll just have to wait and see. ;)

[dollfus46]

I've been all over the Carolinas, and I've never heard of ninety-six. What's the story behind the name?

Andruw will probably strike out twice (1 screwing himself into the ground swinging, and 1 looking), ground into a dp and fly out to deep short with a man on third, but he'll be smilin'.
Heh heh heh. I see you know Andruw as I do.:laugh: When he swings, his right knee is on the ground, literally.
Ninety Six, SC is sort of between Greenville and Columbia. Not far from Greenwood, SC. I just realized, Mississippi has the same town names, Heh heh heh. Anyway, it has to do with a Revolutionary War fort there in the 96th district back in those days. It was 96 miles from the British fort to the edge of the district. So Ninety-Six, SC grew up around the fort. Something similar to that. Not as romantic as I'd like but that's it. There's another town with an odd name like that but it escapes me right now.

[dollfus46]

I hope Andruw proves you both wrong. (he probably won't, but I still got good wishes going his way).
I guess we'll just have to wait and see. ;)
Not against Braves pitchin'!!! Let him do good next week.:laugh:

[fuzzis]

Well, don't feel too badly. I agreed to take another day trip with my son. So I'll be on the road. We're going to Ninety-Six, SC and check out other small towns. Then end up around Batesburg/Leesburg, SC for the Southern Livings People's Choice for BBQ.:smt023 Andruw will dress out for the L.A. Dodgers. 10 to 1 he strikes out two times:clap:

I've been to Ninety-Six. There's a dinner on the corner before you head out for the battlefield that has some excellent biscuits and gravy. :clap::clap: I think that's also the area where the Varsity BBQ is. I think. Can't remember the name of the town. Really good stuff, though, and very nice people.

[hendrixfreak70]

We still have Kelly Johnson. I hope he beats out Prado. He's a great lead-off hitter. Cox isn't bright enough to start him in the lead off slot though. OBP is in the neighborhood of .436 I think. How do you bench someone like that who can play a fine 2nd base too? I think Escobar has Andruw syndrome between the ears. Andruw's baseball I.Q. and his hat size were a match. JMO.

You are pretty hard on B Cox huh? Damn I mean all those NL East titles and World Series appearances. At least you guys have had one coach the last 17 years or so. My Pirates haven't kept one for more than three years. :smt086

[Natural Sunshine]

Anybody getting to watch the game?

[dollfus46]

You are pretty hard on B Cox huh? Damn I mean all those NL East titles and World Series appearances. At least you guys have had one coach the last 17 years or so. My Pirates haven't kept one for more than three years. :smt086

I'm not hard on Booby. I'm harsh on him. We could have had 3 world series rings had we had the manager the Pirates had and the player the Braves had. I know I sound stupid. How in the world can I diss Booby with his record? He a shoo in for the HOF. Booby is the best locker room manager in history. But I personally think he stinks as a field manager. But then, that's part of the fun of baseball is out-thinking the manager. But I think if any number of good managers had had the talent Booby has had over the last 15 years, they could have come away with more WS rings.

[dollfus46]

Anybody getting to watch the game?


Not me. I left Greenville at 10 a.m. and just got back home. I'd have loved to have seen it. Give me a report.:clap:

[kevin]

I saw some but had to go to school.Braves looked good!

[dollfus46]

I saw some but had to go to school.Braves looked good!

What? You left a Braves game to go to class? Priorities, lad, priorities!:smt118

[dollfus46]

This was against the Astros. Notice the youngsters are contributing mightily. Chipper already has a hamstring problem. Dayum!!
Saturday, March 1
Braves at the plate: Yunel Escobar went 2-for-3 and scored a run. Jeff Francoeur contributed a three-run homer off right-hander Runelvys Hernandez in the fourth inning. Josh Anderson hit a two-run single in the ninth to tie it before Martin Prado's two-run single in the ninth won it.

[Echo Four Bravo]

Runelvys? As in "run Forrest, run!"?

[dollfus46]

Runelvys? As in "run Forrest, run!"?

I ono. They need to check his passport though.:kekeke:

[Echo Four Bravo]

Prolly came here on the NY Yankees immigration plan; "your fastball is 96mph, with movement, welcome to America!"

[dollfus46]

Prolly came here on the NY Yankees immigration plan; "your fastball is 96mph, with movement, welcome to America!"

I don't care who you are, THAT'S FUNNY right there! - Larry.
Mets take the Braves in 10 innings today:

[dollfus46]

I never heard of Diroy Hernandez. Have no idea where he came from. Manny Acosta and Jo Jo Reyes were not very impressive on the mound for the Braves. But neither was Glavine the other day. Of course, Glavine always has problems his first two innings before he can settle in.

[Echo Four Bravo]

I don't typically read too much into spring training games; your regulars are just trying to get back in playing shape, prospects are trying to get noticed, and A-ball players are sharing time also.
The only time I take serious notice is when an older player seems to be struggling, physically.

[dollfus46]

I don't typically read too much into spring training games; your regulars are just trying to get back in playing shape, prospects are trying to get noticed, and A-ball players are sharing time also.
The only time I take serious notice is when an older player seems to be struggling, physically.

I put no value on the win/loss stats, but I do watch the individual stats. Nothing is chisled in stone. Some come out of a fine ST and bomb, others struggle in ST and go gang busters from April 1. But you have an idea who can play:smt023 I'm watching Hammy really close. So far, so good.

[dollfus46]

Yippeeeeee! Braves on FoxSports this afternoon at noon your time, 1:00 my time.! I'm one happy guy.
Schafer looked good, Teixeira looked good, Javy Lopez hit a home run and may just make it back as our back up catcher. Jair Jergen pitched briliantly and may make the 5 man rotation. Young kid from the same Island as Andruw Jones, Curacao? He speaks FIVE languages. Fun game to watch.

[dollfus46]

Okay. I'll try again. Braves tonite in 20 minutes on Turner South or Fox Sport South. I get them confused.

[Honey]

fox's sport

[Southern_Belle]

you guys know javy may be returning. not as a starter, but as a back-up catcher. this news is old - but i just didn't see it posted anywhere.

i'm excited about it. i hope that Cox will use him more as a DH. i think he always had a pretty good bat. so far he has a .333. nothing like my man though! go larry!

[dollfus46]

you guys know javy may be returning. not as a starter, but as a back-up catcher. this news is old - but i just didn't see it posted anywhere.

i'm excited about it. i hope that Cox will use him more as a DH. i think he always had a pretty good bat. so far he has a .333. nothing like my man though! go larry!
Yeah, Javy has a good shot at back up. He never could throw anybody out and was not a great back stop. But he could hit. I think you mean, pinch hit. The National League doesn't have the DH, thank goodness, but that's another debate for another time. Heh heh heh.
Tonite's game is all about pitching. Glavine looked great. Only gave up 1 run and went lights out after that. Washington has some guy in now named Hanrahan who has struck out 8 Braves hitters in 3 innings. Holy Cow!:clap:

[dollfus46]

Yep. 2-2 tie after eleven innings. Pitching duel. Not bad. Braves pitching had an ERA under 2 last night. that'll win 100 games and a trip to the WS if they could keep it up. Heh heh heh. That's like some stupid sports announcer said one time. After the second game of the season, some player had two home runs. The announcer says that at that rate the player would finish the season with 162 Home runs. Dumbass was serious.:confused:

[dollfus46]

Fun game tonight. Opposite of last night's game. Braves 11, Cleveland 4. McCann Home Run. This team can hit. It seems to have it all. Pitching and hitting. I disagree it will finish 3rd in it's divisiion behind the Muts and the Phils. Probable starting line up:
Catcher - McCann
1st Base - Teixeira
2nd Base - Johnson
3rd Base - Jones
SS - Escobar
LF- Diaz
CF - Kotsay
RF - Francoeur
I just don't see any weaknesses defensively nor offensively. So it's up to the pitching.
Can Smoltz and Glavine give us one more year? Will Hampton earn his $14 million/yr finally. Bull pen will be one of the best. It's all up to starting pitching.

[Mike'sGirl]

Sound promising, Dollfus! :-)
Can't wait to see it all unfold.

[dollfus46]

Sound promising, Dollfus! :-)
Can't wait to see it all unfold.
It's unfolding right now in Spring Training. Next televised ST game is next Thursday I think. These youngsters are only going to get better and there is super talent waiting to come up from the minors. Just no room in Atlanta now. Braves are going to have a fun, exciting season, either way.:clap:

[dollfus46]

Here is the Braves' Depth Chart for those interested:
http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/team/depth_chart/index.jsp?c_id=atl

[dollfus46]

Braves pitcher Tyler Yate, ERA over 12, can't find the plate tonight with a flashlight and a GPS. Lovely. He's 'sposed to be one of our "can't miss" relievers.

[Echo Four Bravo]

I heard on ESPN this morning that once again, the "experts" are picking the Phillies to win the NL East. Is it just me, or do they get prematurely ordained every year for the last several?

[dollfus46]

I heard on ESPN this morning that once again, the "experts" are picking the Phillies to win the NL East. Is it just me, or do they get prematurely ordained every year for the last several?

Yep. Sports writers art arrogant asses. They have no business having anything to do with the HOF. But, I 'spose, as prejudiced as they are, they aren't as prejudiced as I am about my Braves. Heh heh heh. Most do hate the Braves. Especially that jackass, Tim McCarver.:smt023

[Echo Four Bravo]

I can't stand McCarver or Joe Morgan. Both of them will spend an entire half inning explaining a simple play, as if everyone watching is experiencing their first baseball game. It's a shame, because they handicap Jon Miller, one of the best announcers in the game, with Morgan.

[dollfus46]

I can't stand McCarver or Joe Morgan. Both of them will spend an entire half inning explaining a simple play, as if everyone watching is experiencing their first baseball game. It's a shame, because they handicap Jon Miller, one of the best announcers in the game, with Morgan.
I've no use for Morgan either. But it appears to me Jon Miller spends most of his time sucking up to Morgan. Morgan should pay Miller as his PR man.
:(

[dollfus46]

Braves win! Braves win! Braves win! 4-2 McCann off the bench to jack one into the cheap seats. Hammy pitches like an All-Star. Looks like he'll earn his $14 Mil this year for the first time since 2005. Everybody looks ready. This team can beat anybody on any given day. Jojo Reyes back to AAA. Drease back to AAA. Javy released. Retires. Schaefer to AA I thought that odd. If you're a Braves fan, this is gonna be one fun year. Look forward to it!!:eusa_danc

[dollfus46]

Are you ready for some BASEBALL?!! Braves season opener tonite at 8 on ESPN. Nationals are much improved but so are the Bravos. Two Nationals will be playing from the old Braves team. Looks like:
P- Glavine
C- McCann
1st-Teixeira
2nd-Johnson
3rd-Jones
SS-Escobar
LF-Diaz
CF-Kotsay
RF-Francoeur

If Kelly Johnson falters anytime Martin Prado can come in. And these boys can hit. I doubt you'll see the National's pitch a No Hitter. In fact you won't see any Brave go O-fer. This is one fine offensive AND defensive team. Johnson and the back up catcher, Brayan Pena were the last two Braves I saw come through Greenville before they moved to Pearl MS. Corky Miller I saw at Pearl. I think the Braves sent Brayan back to AAA and kept Corky to back up McCann. I haven't heard yet.

[Echo Four Bravo]

I can't wait, I just hope Joe Morgan isn't on the broadcast team. I may have to watch it on mute.

[dollfus46]

I wish you hadn't mentioned that. I'll bet he is. At least you like Jon Miller. He'll brown nose Joe all night until I have to mute it. Let's have some fun and see how many asinine things Joe says.

[CircusRide]

Joe Morgan is awesome. Braves suck!

[dollfus46]

Why don't you go over and post on "Say something nice about the person above you" and kill that thread.

[kevin]

I'm looking foward to the Game tonight.Should be a good year for the Bravos!

[BayFly]

I am and old Braves fan but have been to busy for last 10 to 12 years to keep up like I did back then. How is their pitching and is chipper healthy, also who is new pitching coach. I am proably embrassing myself with questions a fan should know, but I wil try to catch up this year. I remember the old days when I kept up Murphy, Pendelton were my favorite and lots more, somebody help me catch up

[BayFly]

I agree with you Dollfus, Joe Morgan was a much better player than announcer

[Echo Four Bravo]

Most everything is pointing to a very good season, Bayfly. Chipper, bless his heart was just born with bum feet, but he'll still give his all. We've got a blast from the past in the rotation this year; Glavine is back. All in all, the pitching looks pretty solid.
Amen on the Murphy/Pendleton days.

[BayFly]

Thanks Echo, I was a hard core fan years ago and played a lot of ball then softball, then I tore my bicep lose and couldn't play anymore and kinda lost my desire for the game. I love the game and hope to catch up this year, so yall be patient with me if I ask anything a fan should know.

[Echo Four Bravo]

No problem, I love to talk baseball.