Your new 2011 Atlanta Braves manager, Fredi Gonzalez. (I will be calling him Fre-Go.)
The Braves signed hm to a three-year contract. Announcement on coaches will come at a later date. He said the right thing in the press conference, "Not a person alive that could replace Bobby."
The Braves will retain Roger McDowell as the pitching coach, Eddie Perez as the bullpen coach, and Brian Snitker as the third base coach. Terry Pendleton will be retained, but will become the first base coach and infield instructor. Carlos Tosca will follow Fre-Go from Florida to Atlanta and become the Braves new bench coach. Chino Cadahia and Glenn Hubbard will not be retained. The club will undergo a search for a new hitting coach.
Good coaching moves. I like them taking their time looking for a new hitting coach. That is a big area that needs improvement for the Braves.
UPDATE 3:40pm
Here is a great article on the Braves new bench coach, Carlos Tosca. He's never played professional baseball, he's been a coach since 1978. Seems like a solid baseball man.
0 recs | 391 comments
Wonder if the overall infield defense this season was the reason Hubbard wasn’t retained.
Rhyno18 - October 13, 2010
couldn't have helped, that's for sure
Zeus12888 - October 13, 2010
This season feels like an anamoly that is not indicative of all the help he’s given fielders and how good they’ve been until this season, though. I’m a little sad to see him go, but I don’t think its gonna be catastrophic. Good to see them looking for a new hitting coach though.
J-Freak - October 13, 2010 via mobile
This
I remember he helped Kelly Johnson tremendously when he went back to second base for us. Kelly wasn’t a gold glover, but he sure became solid enough with Glen’s help
BravesDawg16 - October 13, 2010
hubbard was also the reason that marcus giles was a good defender. I don’t like the move to get rid of him.
However, I am ecstatic that TP is no longer the hitting coach. They need to coach less towards free swinging and more towards patience. This team was great at drawing walks and getting on base for a big chunk of this season and it carried them. They couldn’t always bring those guys around to score, but when you get a ton of guys on base, you don’t have to drive them all in to score a ton of runs.
telemakhos - October 13, 2010
In other words
its TP’s fault when they’re free swingers, but he gets no credit when they’re patient
alxn - October 13, 2010
It’s possible that Pendleton had something to do with the Braves finding patience, but it’s a bit hard to credit. Patience as a hitter is hardly something TP was known for during his career-he had a career .316 OBP, which is 2010 Melky Cabrera territory (ie, not very good). Or, put it this way, four Braves 2010 starting pitchers posted higher walk rates than TP’s career rate.
Bronn - October 13, 2010
Now you're getting it.
Sam Jethroe - October 14, 2010
what?
that doesn’t make any sense.
Braves24 - October 13, 2010
it's possible
I’m just sad to see him go. He was a favorite of mine as a kid and I’ve got a soft spot for him. But obviously, changes are expected with a new manager, no matter who it is.
pthatch - October 13, 2010
Not all that happy about retaining Snitker at 3B
Lot’s of mistakes over there this year
SuperNewb - October 13, 2010
+100
HalleyGator - October 13, 2010
This. Much rather see him booted and Hubbard over there.
J-Freak - October 13, 2010 via mobile
This
Creek Johnson - October 13, 2010
I'd like that
The Keith Lockhart Era - October 13, 2010
this
Andy Braves Fan - October 13, 2010
Yeah, definitely would’ve preferred keeping Hubbard over Snitker, but whateves…
award6 - October 13, 2010
Moved Hubbard over and dropped Snitker. Man was he bad.
bpk228480 - October 13, 2010
Same here
Mr. Sanchez - October 13, 2010
Fre-go is an even worse nickname then PeMo.
DogDaysofSummer - October 13, 2010
This
Fre-go my Eggo
SuperNewb - October 13, 2010
I know it was you Fre-go. You broke my heart.
DogDaysofSummer - October 13, 2010
lol
award6 - October 13, 2010
This is what I thought of too when I saw that. LOL.
OrangeBritches - October 13, 2010
we have a winnarrr
bravesguy311 - October 14, 2010
I had Eggos for breakfast
MBL1 - October 13, 2010 via mobile
I like that - Fredi right next to Bobby on the dias.
carpengui - October 13, 2010
Fredi #33
Not too subtle – 3+3 = 6
CharlotteChop - October 13, 2010
That was his Marlins number
Dunno what his old Braves jersey was.
carpengui - October 13, 2010
33 actually. I just like the 3+3= 6
CharlotteChop - October 13, 2010
I thought I saw film from when he was a coach, and he was #45.
John Holton - October 13, 2010
His original number was 33.
When Brian Jordan came back to Atlanta in 2005, he asked Gonzalez to have his #33 back. Gonzalez agreed and started wearing #45. Jordan bought him a Harley Davidson to thank him.
AnEternalEnigma - October 13, 2010
Could someone please tell Jordan that I wear #33?
TennKen - October 13, 2010
A really primo Harley.
Brian Jordan is a real Brave.
Sam Jethroe - October 14, 2010
NO!!!!!!!!!
OMG.
I though for sure I would NOT have to put up with more of SNITKER at 3B!
He is terrible.
HalleyGator - October 13, 2010
Will miss Glen Hubbard he’s been with ATL forever
TurnerTheBurner - October 13, 2010
heard that
made me sad to. shouldve kept him, kicked pendleton
d.ross - October 13, 2010
I’m cool with Pendleton staying with the team. He knows some nuances of the team right now and I don’t think he’s stupid, maybe he’ll do great at 1st.
I too would rather keep Hubbard over Snitker, but I’m sure the defense this year was enough to have a new manager want him out.
Pavy848 - October 13, 2010
That’s what I was thinking. TP might not have been the best hitting coach, but he could really help in the infield. I wouldn’t be surprised if he ends up managing next year, though.
John Holton - October 13, 2010
Not here, of course, but somewhere else.
John Holton - October 13, 2010
THANK YOU JEFF LORIA!
SuperNewb - October 13, 2010
Doesn't matter.
Wren said they had been looking at Fredi even before he was fired. I’d be willing to bet he’d have come to Atlanta even if he hadn’t been fired.
mcboyt - October 13, 2010
Gonzalez still had one year left on his deal.
The Braves would have had to ask the Marlins for permission to talk to him. It’s usually an unwritten courtesy that you always grant the request, but we know Jeff Loria doesn’t know anything about courtesy, written or unwritten.
AnEternalEnigma - October 13, 2010
this
leedawg - October 13, 2010
Interesting Hubbard is leaving. Maybe he is the one burned over not getting the look instead of TP.
CharlotteChop - October 13, 2010
Was this televised only locally? Is there a clip online anywhere?
NCChopper - October 13, 2010
It's on Braves.com right now
SuperNewb - October 13, 2010
They're still asking questions
SuperNewb - October 13, 2010
THANK YOU!
NCChopper - October 13, 2010
Going on right now on braves.com
Rhyno18 - October 13, 2010
I don't know why but Fredi kinda looks like Stone Cold Steve Austin to me right now.
It’s freaking me out a little bit.
DogDaysofSummer - October 13, 2010
’Cuz Freddi G says so!
king of games - October 13, 2010
And that's the bottom line, Cuz Feddi G said so...
Can I get a HELL YEAH!?
kp.atl - October 13, 2010
If he piledrives LaRussa
Climbs up on top of the dugout and sprays beers (thrown to him by Tosca) all over the front row…I will be very pleased.
Sam Jethroe - October 14, 2010
I love this.
SuperNewb - October 13, 2010
"Frank, did you actually ever interview anyone else?"
“We did not.”
Process escalated over the past few days and weeks since 4-5 other clubs contacted Fredi about their openings.
carpengui - October 13, 2010
Kind of surprised by Hubbard's release
The infield defense definitely hurt us down the stretch and in the playoffs. But, Hubbard was instrumental in converting Kelly Johnson into a second baseman and working with Giles.
I’m curious to see what he does, next.
aaaaandTheBravesWin - October 13, 2010
Goes on to manage the Mets and destroy the Braves.
DogDaysofSummer - October 13, 2010
With Chino as bench coach.
DogDaysofSummer - October 13, 2010
Nah that's Chino
SuperNewb - October 13, 2010
True.
Maybe if the organization can stick to keeping 1 player at 2B, and/or using legit non-converted second basemen then Hubbard’s influence also goes down. However, I loved Hubbard and his body of work (except this years defense).
Pavy848 - October 13, 2010
FW handling the TP explanation very politically, :D
SuperNewb - October 13, 2010
Yeah TP is "really excited" apparently
s.r.j - October 13, 2010
Only because he'll get more screentime....
Undocorkscrew - October 13, 2010
carpengui - October 13, 2010
:)
can’t wait.
Chief Noc-A-Homa - October 13, 2010
Couldn't be happier
The Keith Lockhart Era - October 13, 2010
Cadahia gone, I am surprised he is going and kind of sad about it.
Andy Braves Fan - October 13, 2010
No more FUPA :(
BravesDawg16 - October 13, 2010
This is ULTIMATE sadness.
Doghnut - October 14, 2010
Yeah me too
Needed an explanation for that more than I needed an explanation for TP moving down the line.
SuperNewb - October 13, 2010
Agreed.
I feel like Tosca will fill that void a bit, but I’m gonna miss Chino.
The Keith Lockhart Era - October 13, 2010
so sad...
suprised by Hubbard too, but its a new day I suppose… Excited to have Fredi on board and the prospect of a new hitting coach
HansonManCrush - October 13, 2010
Although
I can’t say I’m shocked to see Chino leaving with Bobby’s retirement
HansonManCrush - October 13, 2010
I was thinking the same thing
maybe he just wanted to go with Bobby. Best of luck to him.
Hubbard too, really surprised. But retained Snitker…???
Andy Braves Fan - October 13, 2010
I don’t know if Chino and Fredi ever really crossed paths. If I’m wrong there, then this comment is useless, but for the bench coach position, you need somebody you’ve worked with, someone you trust implicitly, and somebody who has your ear. If these guys haven’t done that, then it would make perfect sense to replace Chino.
carpengui - October 13, 2010
TP Out as Hitting coach
Great news
KJDH2154 - October 13, 2010
And there was much rejoicing.
The Keith Lockhart Era - October 13, 2010
yaaaayyyy
Jareth Cutestory - October 13, 2010
Plus five (three sir.)
The Keith Lockhart Era - October 16, 2010
I’m glad they’re keeping Roger and Eddie, and yes, I’m even glad they’re keeping TP (who is a really good guy and a good influence). I think the data show that hitting coaches have very, very little effect overall relative to other hitting coaches, but if anything, more hitters improved under TP than regressed. Still, he had become such a lightning rod that they almost had to find a new hitting coach. Glad they didn’t out-and-out fire him though.
I wish we still had Chino, but I’ve heard mostly good things about Carlos Tosca, too, so hopefully that’ll work out. Snitker staying is a big “meh” to me. As for the search for the new hitting coach, I just hope they get a guy who—like TP—seems to value the walk. That’s really the only thing I look for in a hitting coach.
Jacob Peterson - October 13, 2010
agreed
But Hubbard and Cadahia are both big losses. I’m ok with TP moving, Very happy with Rocher and Eddie. Snitker I am less ok with, but its not a huge problem.
Andy Braves Fan - October 13, 2010
The only time hitting coaches get any recognition is when they luck into having a ton of good hitters playing on the team.
Otherwise, they are used as objects for people to hurl abuse at.
For examples of both: See the Phillies Hitting Coach fired earlier this year (his name escapes me at the moment).
DogDaysofSummer - October 13, 2010
Milt Thompson...........TP's old Cardinals teammate...and a damn solid hitter in his own right
El Soro - October 13, 2010
Former Brave too. That would be interesting.
cbwilk - October 13, 2010
I disagree with your assessment that hitting coaches have very little effect because the data says so. What data are you referring to? Are you simply comparing the team’s offense as a whole to other team’s offense as a whole? If you look at it that way, then obviously I can see how you may come to that conclusion. I’d like to look at the hitting coach’s body of work when working with individual hitters and how they’ve improved after. I saw KJ as a glaring example of how TP’s influence made him a worse hitter in all aspects. McLouth also comes to mind recently. What hitters can you name who have actually worked with TP and improved their hitting?
Outside of that, I would think the other job of hitting coaches is to study the upcoming pitchers and try to point out weaknesses. That would be alot tougher to evaluate unless you’re on the inside.
BravesFan - October 13, 2010
How do you know that TP caused those players to regress? KJ hasn’t been any different in Arizona. For every hitter that has regressed there has been a hitter that has improved while TP has been the hitting coach. That is just the nature of baseball. The Braves have had some great offensive years and some poor offensive years under TP, mostly dependent on who the hitters are. To blame the hitting coach is just refusing to accept that the team doesn’t have very good hitters.
A lot of people thought Rudy Jaramillo was the best hitting coach in the league while he was with the Rangers. He was hired by the Cubs and they were still awful.
alxn - October 13, 2010
Major league hitters need hitting instructors?
When it comes down to it, major league hitters either know how to hit to get to the major leagues or they don’t. If they get into funks, it’s not like any one person is necessarily going to get them out of their hitting woes. Sometimes it is a suggestion that just happens to work and frankly anyone with any baseball knowledge could probably come up with a suggestion out of the blue.
I don’t think hitting coaches are THAT important or have THAT much influence on the hitters. I think they are nice to have and can provide some good information but as far as having a big impact, I don’t think they do.
proeye - October 14, 2010
Golfers need swing coaches and the ball is sitting still, what makes you think a baseball players mechanics don’t get “out of whack” from time to time? Maybe it’s just planting a thought in a players head, “stay back” or “swing through the ball”.
bighop - October 14, 2010
I don’t feel like this is a very well thought out comment. They either know how to hit or they don’t? Really? You think hitting at the Major League level, the highest level of professional baseball, where they’re trying to do the hardest thing in sports, is just that simple? Right.
cbwilk - October 14, 2010
All too common a view, alas.
In spite of oodles of evidence of players like Dwight Evans or Andres Galarraga who had their careers turned around by hitting instructors.
Sam Jethroe - October 14, 2010
Has there ever been a hitting coach/player before?
If not, I say time to break new ground :-)
NCChopper - October 13, 2010
I like the sentiment but...
I’m gonna say I’m not going for the idea of Chip as hitting coach until he retires…
What if he needs help with his swing?
SuperNewb - October 13, 2010
That’s what he has his Father for…Larry Sr!
Dave_D - October 13, 2010
Exactly. Larry Sr has been working with Chipper on his swing since Chipper was a little kid.
MBL1 - October 13, 2010 via mobile
It’s pretty obvious Chipper has looked to other ways to “tweak” his swing outside of TP, so he could do that and coach others too. Heck, he’s been doing it anyways if you listen to some of the player comments over the past couple of years.
NCChopper - October 13, 2010
I don't see
Chipper as a hitting coach right away… He’s said repeatedly that after he retires, he wants to take time away from the game… but some day
HansonManCrush - October 13, 2010
Yeah, I know the unlikelihood of it, but a gal can dream. :-)
NCChopper - October 13, 2010
yup
we can all dream… I imagine Chipper’s going to play a big role in this organization after he retires at some point! I am excited for the new regime though!
HansonManCrush - October 13, 2010
Hate to point out the obvious.
But how about Larry Sr. as hitting coach?
king of games - October 13, 2010
I'd be ok with that
but I’m not sure Larry Sr. wants that…
HansonManCrush - October 13, 2010
Chipper
will make a fantastic hitting coach one day, that much is for sure. He combines the best of the intellectual and instinctual schools of hitting. I could listen to him talk hitting all day long.
Not sure if it’s possible for him to be a player/coach (I think there are some rules against that sort of thing that MLB put in place after the Pete Rose debacle), but I’d be interested to know for sure.
Jacob Peterson - October 13, 2010
Yeah, I’m curious if it’s even possible.
NCChopper - October 13, 2010
Plus, he can show and understand...
swings from both sides of the plate.
Mr. Sanchez - October 13, 2010
Excellent point.
NCChopper - October 14, 2010
Chipper has already for some time been THE hitting coach, unoffically, of course, and will undoubtedly continue on in that capacity regardless of whoever the new, official guy may be.
fandave - October 13, 2010
So far I like the moves…I would not be opposed to them having Jamie Dismuke become the hitting coach (he was Gwinnett’s Hitting Coach this year). He seemed to work with the guys well in Gwinnett the past two years and tinkered with guys swings that were sent down…but then again I really think Chipper would be a perfect candidate as hitting coach.
I think there was no need for Chino anymore since you have Fredi now who speaks Spanish (I think)…sometimes I think that was the only reason we had Chino so he could communicate to the Spanish speaking players what Bobby was saying and vice versa.
Dave_D - October 13, 2010
Eventually
Chipper could be a great hitting coach.
Andy Braves Fan - October 13, 2010
Like Dismuke as a candidate
award6 - October 13, 2010
He did more than speak spanish. Don't sell him short. They have other people to do that as well.
FitzFan - October 13, 2010
Like Prado.
DogDaysofSummer - October 13, 2010
He was also brought up to the big club after Gwinnett's season...
he being Dismuke. Maybe they were prepping him for next year. If Dismuke has been in the system a long time, he and Fredi may have worked together the year Fredi was our AAA manager, or in the springs when Fredi was 3B coach.
And I’m almost certain Bobby spoke Spanish.
Mr. Sanchez - October 13, 2010
They just kept him around to babysit Escobar...
But now that he’s gone, they don’t need Chino anymore.
Little Lady - October 14, 2010
Not true
sorry, have to correct you on this one. Cadahia was a great bench coach, more than just “the spanish speaking guy”.
Andy Braves Fan - October 14, 2010
'Twas a joke, Andy.
Little Lady - October 15, 2010
i liked the decision before, but now I’m just kind of giddie about the thought of this team with some fresh perspective at the healm.
It is a good day.
rookiefan - October 13, 2010
This
I’m excited to see what some new coaches can throw together with our group.
BigG1392 - October 13, 2010
Cool.
Glad we’re keeping Roger and Eddie. But I liked Chino…oh well.
MBL1 - October 13, 2010 via mobile
Maybe, with Bobby leaving Chino wants to go fishing too.
NCChopper - October 13, 2010
A bench coach is like a right hand man.
It’s only natural that Fredi would want his own guy there. I didn’t think there was much chance at all for Chino to remain, at least in that capacity.
Tarkus - October 13, 2010
Me too
I like what Roger and Eddie have done with this pitching staff…
HansonManCrush - October 13, 2010
I like what Roger and Eddie has done to Lowe.
Pavy848 - October 13, 2010
this
Lowe attributes that day against the Natinals to all his work with Roger and he’s been a different pitcher ever since
HansonManCrush - October 13, 2010
OT
Is anyone else thinking that this miner rescue thing in Chile has the feel of an eerie NFL Draft to it? With each miner, we have his bio, a story, a view of their family as the (resuce) “selection” comes up, and then the higs and kisses of congratulations after the capsule is opened. Kinda surreal. The only thing missing is Mel Kiper’s analysis of why the Cardinals drafted too high and that the latest guy should have been rescued later.
carpengui - October 13, 2010
“higs” —> “hugs”
carpengui - October 13, 2010
The weight of his hair would collapse the mine, tremendously delaying the rescue itenerary.
BW Smith - October 13, 2010
I haven’t been watching it, but that’s a funny comparision. I’m happy that the miners got rescued.
MBL1 - October 13, 2010 via mobile
+33
…. and that’s not a reference to Fredi’s number.
carpengui - October 13, 2010
it`s the quantity of miners
joshant - October 13, 2010
woah
that’s a weird coincidence
award6 - October 13, 2010
That’s fantastic. Can I use that for my stand-up?
cbwilk - October 13, 2010
LOL – Absolutely!
carpengui - October 13, 2010
Haha, glad to hear it…cause I already did. It killed! Thanks. Unfortunately I can really only use it for a week, but anything helps. Good stuff man!
cbwilk - October 13, 2010
Is that an unwritten rule?
The one-week thing? Or maybe I’m way off…
Creek Johnson - October 13, 2010
No, there are plenty of guys who will tell jokes about events like that long after they happened, but to me it always comes off a little desperate. Like, “Hey, you guys remember when they pulled those Chilean miners out? Remember? Like 2 months ago? It was a big thing? Remember?” To me no matter how great a joke might be about something that happens it loses most all of its effectiveness if you’re too removed from the event. So yeah, I’d only feel comfortable using it for the next week or so, but, also unfortunately, folks get stuck in mines all the time, so I’ll have the chance to use it again.
cbwilk - October 13, 2010
Hahahaha
I know you wrote that last sentence with morbid satisfaction.
Creek Johnson - October 14, 2010
Link to press conference?
I don’t see it on braves.com
kauf67 - October 13, 2010
They finished up about 20 mins. ago.
carpengui - October 13, 2010
Thanks?
kauf67 - October 13, 2010
Who...
are the TCer’s pullin for in the NLCS?
DirtyWaters - October 13, 2010
Cougars.
Scott Coleman - October 13, 2010
Thank you for your support, but I’m not in it this year either.
Lizziebeth - October 13, 2010
lol
rec’d. way to be Lizzie.
Scott Coleman - October 13, 2010
i withdraw my support then.
10-4 - October 13, 2010
Well played...
but I’m still not speaking to you for failure to get the going away hazing pics.
Mr. Sanchez - October 13, 2010
Awww, it wasn't my fault I wasn't invited on the train from Washington to Philly.
According to Jim Powell, that’s where they did the hazing this year. All I heard was that Heyward was Big Bird, Freddie had to sing a song, all of them had to get up and tell what their signing bonus was. I think it was Diory who said “$11 million”. There may have been more said, but I was in the middle of downtown traffic and on the phone trying to repeat everything to LT (since I have CRS), who was telling me she couldn’t listen at the moment ‘cause she was at a critical moment in a game with other friends.
Sigh, hopefully someday you’ll forgive me…
Lizziebeth - October 13, 2010
Sweet goodness! Heyward as Big Bird!, pictures have to surface somewhere
Shoert - October 14, 2010
Fine, fine...
you are forgiven. But don’t let it happen again!
Mr. Sanchez - October 14, 2010
i bow to your clever greatness. :-)
NCChopper - October 14, 2010
Cholera outbreak
UMDBHIK - October 13, 2010
Meteor
carpengui - October 13, 2010
That said: the Phils win in no more than 5 games…. if the Giants get lucky.
carpengui - October 13, 2010
flood hits philadelphia
MBL1 - October 13, 2010 via mobile
Texas
rookiefan - October 13, 2010
$Texas
KJDH2154 - October 13, 2010
Phillies
I’d personally like to see the Giants get swept.
BigG1392 - October 13, 2010
Screw that
The Rangers are my de facto team through the end of the postseason. If we have another Philthy/Skanky World Series I might have to move to Siberia and take up curling.
J-Freak - October 13, 2010
Pretty much this
It was between whoever won the Rays/Rangers series for me
award6 - October 13, 2010
-1000
For rooting for the Phillies. Completely unacceptable.
-InsertWittyNameHere- - October 13, 2010
no way.
Giants in the NLCS. that way, you can say you got beat by the best team.
Jareth Cutestory - October 13, 2010
Personally, the Giants. I’m sick of the Phillies, and the more I get to see of Brian Wilson, the better.
But the only team I really care about now is the Rangers.
Sarahbeth - October 13, 2010
A minimum of four bench clearing brawls.
Per game.
Sam Jethroe - October 14, 2010
The ONLY thing that would make me root for the Yankees is if they are playing the Phillies.
(or maybe the Marlins too since they didn’t salute Bobby)
So, I’m pulling for the Giants in the NLCS and if they don’t win it, I’ll be a Yankee fan for a week.
NCChopper - October 14, 2010
Agreed
Yankees fans are perpetually intolerable, so it won’t make any difference if they win another one.
Andy Braves Fan - October 14, 2010
Sad to see Hubbard go. He was always one of my favs. Best of luck Glenn.
On another note, SURPRISE! IT’s Fredi!
UMDBHIK - October 13, 2010
I have a feeling Fredi is going to be the new Nate McClouth of TC. People better spell his name right.
Scott Coleman - October 13, 2010
Krabs Medallion disagrees with you.
UMDBHIK - October 13, 2010
I really hope little Meddlin comes back strong after the surgery.
Scott Coleman - October 13, 2010
“little Meddlin”
That’s cute.
rookiefan - October 13, 2010
he will
the baby faced assassin will be back with a vengence… I feel more confident about Meds long-term than Jurrjens as an anchor in this rotation
HansonManCrush - October 13, 2010
not to say
that there necessarily needs to be a choice between the two, but there’s so much talk about possibly trading one of the youg arms for a power bat… I’d much rather see them trade JJ. But I do like JJ alot. But I don’t see either getting traded this offseason while Meds is recovering…
HansonManCrush - October 13, 2010
oh man the good ole days mid season,
where we all made fun of misspellings of names and weren’t freaking out about our dwindling playoff chances and ultimate elimination.
bpk228480 - October 13, 2010
When defending Glaus and Melky was actually plausible.....
:(
DogDaysofSummer - October 13, 2010
Defending Melky was never plausible. At his peak this season he was about replacement level. Greg White could’ve given the exact same production, if not better, for the league minimum. Except that Greg White has a tendency to also catch balls and NOT use J-Hey as the cutoff man.
J-Freak - October 13, 2010
That's more in reference to the people who were like MELKY ISN'T GOING TO BAT OVER .200 THIS SEASON.
You know who you are.
DogDaysofSummer - October 13, 2010
Well, OK, I’ll grant you that much. I had no illusions of him playing his way off team by May (despite the fact I wanted him gone regardless), but I also had no illusions of him being any benefit either.
J-Freak - October 13, 2010
Rather have Greg Norton
than Melky Cabrera. And that’s saying something!
Matthew Jones - October 13, 2010
NOOOOOOOOOOOOO
I don’t think you’re remembering how bad Greg Norton was.
kauf67 - October 14, 2010
Distance makes the heart grow fonder.
I’m glad they succeeded in blocking those memories out of theirs minds. It’s too much to bear.
Creek Johnson - October 14, 2010
That's the funniest thing I've read in a long time.
I think I peed a little.
-InsertWittyNameHere- - October 13, 2010
So...
I guess the whole blogger manager thing didn’t work out? Sorry bout that pal.
MBL1 - October 13, 2010 via mobile
There’s a reason they haven’t announced the hitting coach yet…
Scott Coleman - October 13, 2010
Fredi just needs somebody to love?
KJDH2154 - October 13, 2010
LOL…Talking Chop now has BIEBER FEVER!
Scott Coleman - October 13, 2010
OMG
we is doomed
MBL1 - October 13, 2010 via mobile
NEVER!
It’s just that from now on all my comment responses to you will, in some way, reference that song, because I’ve heard that with “The Fever” the only way to get through to a person who has been diagnosed with it, is to reference at least one of the songs in some way, all other responses will be ignored
KJDH2154 - October 13, 2010
I don’t like the little douchebag one bit. Just that song has been in my head for 24 hours now…and it’s not coming out
Scott Coleman - October 13, 2010
Then you'll appreciate this (If you haven't seen it already)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zVXTC5YS9OM
KJDH2154 - October 13, 2010
HAHAHA
the top comment on that video is priceless.
Scott Coleman - October 13, 2010
Have you seen the Aziz sketch?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hza_5WtJq8g
award6 - October 13, 2010
Love it. You beat me to posting it.
cbwilk - October 13, 2010
Hahaha
MBL1 - October 13, 2010 via mobile
See
I took this as a Queen reference.
UMDBHIK - October 13, 2010
I love Queen
us 21-year olds unfortunately couldn’t escape the little girl.
Scott Coleman - October 13, 2010
Me too...
Now that i found it’s a minidbag reference i am sickened and feel sorry for mvhsbball head!
TCfromDubVee - October 13, 2010
I was thinking Jefferson Airplane.
J-Freak - October 13, 2010
Me too.
cbwilk - October 13, 2010
So...
1. Honor Bobby2. Hire Fredi Gonzalez
3. Non-tender Melky
I’m waiting…
Scott Coleman - October 13, 2010
+1
HansonManCrush - October 13, 2010
You forgot
4. Non-tender McLouth
Other than that, I like the list.
UMDBHIK - October 13, 2010
We’d still have to pay him like $8M next year, so we might as well keep him if we can’t trade him. At the worst he’d be the richest pinch-runner in baseball.
Scott Coleman - October 13, 2010
He started to hit again...
and if he hits like he did the year before, that .250/.350/.450 isn’t bad in LF, especially with a right handed platoon partner (Diaz around $3m?). And like you said, possible pinch running, late inning defensive replacement in the Gregor Blanco (and Matt Young) mold.
Mr. Sanchez - October 13, 2010
FREE MATT YOUNG
J-Freak - October 13, 2010
Yeah – already under contract, therefore not eligible for a non-tender.
carpengui - October 13, 2010
I'm waiting......
for somebody to lovee
bighop - October 13, 2010
Baby, baby, baby, ohhhh…
Scott Coleman - October 13, 2010
YOU ARE A JERK.
That’s going to be in my head for the next 8 hours!
A JERK! A JERK I SAY!
MBL1 - October 13, 2010 via mobile
Sounds like you need somebody to LOOOVVVEEEE.
Scott Coleman - October 13, 2010
I love that I haven’t heard that song. Jefferson Airplane references, while mildly annoying, are far less traumatic than thinking about the douchenozzle.
J-Freak - October 13, 2010
I'm so glad I'm old...
because I don’t know that song. I’m figuring I’d want to take a drill to my forehead to make it go away, but…blissful silence.
mcboyt - October 13, 2010
Only the Biebs can make people glad they’re old.
king of games - October 13, 2010
Ima tell you one time...
girl I love you
E-Lizz - October 13, 2010
I'm calling him Fredi-G!
And he will regulate!
TCfromDubVee - October 13, 2010
This
Snoop Dogg as bench coach!
king of games - October 13, 2010
It was actually Nate Dogg that had sixteen in the clip and one in the hole.
10-4 - October 13, 2010
Regulatorrrrssssss
bpk228480 - October 13, 2010
Mount up
10-4 - October 13, 2010
Did you guys see the size of that chicken?
Lizziebeth - October 13, 2010
winner
Mr. Sanchez - October 13, 2010
I prefer
“Jeffrey Loria’s Biggest Mistake”
KJDH2154 - October 13, 2010
kinda wordy
king of games - October 13, 2010
yeah, i suppose…..dammit
KJDH2154 - October 13, 2010
you know what else is wordy?
I just need somebody to LOOOOVVVVEEEE!
Scott Coleman - October 13, 2010
I’m strongly considering getting in my car, making a trip to Arizona, and throwing a water bottle at your head…….it’s only fitting, right??
KJDH2154 - October 13, 2010
The last time an Iowa fan came out to Arizona, it didn’t work too well for them. Do as you’d like though.
Scott Coleman - October 13, 2010
Yeah, maybe I’ll send an Oregon St. fan down for me……OHHHHHH low blow!
KJDH2154 - October 13, 2010
We just felt like being nice to them. I mean…they are named the Beavers. But I’m already in basketball mode and football is an afterthought now.
Scott Coleman - October 13, 2010
Thats too bad
Because basketball sucks.
I feel like i’m Proctobombing this thread for some reason.
10-4 - October 13, 2010
College basketball? Really? How could you not love college hoops and march madness?
Scott Coleman - October 13, 2010
I love march madness. but not the regular season.
yup… they call me “Mr. Bandwagon”.
rookiefan - October 13, 2010
with all due respect. I do NOT love college hoops and around here March Madness = SPRING TRAINING !!! :-P
rbravesfan - October 13, 2010
I just really, really hate basketball. I hate to play it, and i hate to watch it.
10-4 - October 13, 2010
Whatever happened to the Proctobomb?
I always liked him, even if we disagreed. Is he still around?
Andy Braves Fan - October 13, 2010
Loria's Folly?
BW Smith - October 13, 2010
Said it above, but I'll say it again.
Larry Sr. should be out hitting coach.
king of games - October 13, 2010
I think so too.
He needs to go out with Bobby.
Scott Coleman - October 13, 2010
J-Freak - October 13, 2010
LOL
and i agree
lingsched - October 13, 2010
Did you “our” hitting coach?
rookiefan - October 13, 2010
Did you “mean” “our” hitting coach?
rookiefan - October 13, 2010
Did “you” “mean” “our” hitting coach?
Scott Coleman - October 13, 2010
no
rookiefan - October 13, 2010
Lulz
WienerDog - October 13, 2010
what does “Lulz” mean?
and yes i am a idiot.
rookiefan - October 13, 2010
It’s another way of saying lol
MBL1 - October 13, 2010 via mobile
and the moron said:
ohhhhhh.
rookiefan - October 13, 2010
Yes, my bad. Chippers dad would be an awsome hitting coach.
king of games - October 13, 2010
I think that’s probably at least part of the reason they’re holding out on naming a hitting coach…they probably want to give Chipper’s rehab a bit more time, and if it looks like he won’t make it back next season, the job is his.
Aaron Meier - October 13, 2010 via mobile
Fail...
Just saw you were talking about Chipper’s old man.
Aaron Meier - October 13, 2010 via mobile
But my point still stands.
Aaron Meier - October 13, 2010 via mobile
They'll name a hitting coach long before Chipper's status is known.
Tarkus - October 13, 2010
Howie Mccann
10-4 - October 13, 2010
I wish that he and Bobby were wearing Braves hats.
:)
Chief Noc-A-Homa - October 13, 2010
From DOB
Haha.
E-Lizz - October 13, 2010
Texting while driving?
I’m disapointed in our new manager already.
10-4 - October 13, 2010
I thought about this
Shouldn’t they arrest him or something?
E-Lizz - October 13, 2010
They already have admission of guilt. Book em’ Danno.
10-4 - October 13, 2010
O: texting while driving is illegal in some counties.
MBL1 - October 13, 2010 via mobile
Its illegal in Georgia as of July 1st.
E-Lizz - October 13, 2010
So is not wearing a seatbelt in a truck, dammit.
10-4 - October 13, 2010
sounds like there is a little underlying aggression in that statement.
rookiefan - October 13, 2010
he could have been riding, not driving
Mr. Sanchez - October 13, 2010
He may have even come straight from the airport, not sure where he currently lives. Maybe the Braves sent a limmo for him.
king of games - October 13, 2010
Last I heard his home base is in Marietta, northwest suburb of Atlanta.
Lizziebeth - October 13, 2010
Press Conferences
Does anybody know where I can go back and watch the press conference?
deewill23 - October 13, 2010
*Conference*
deewill23 - October 13, 2010
This may sound crazy at this point, but
do we trade D Lowe while his value is maxed Vasquez style? I’m not entirely sold on this myself, but it is slightly interesting.
king of games - October 13, 2010
His contract
is much more difficult to move than Vazquez’s was. That’s for Frank Wren to decide, I’m on the fence.
Andy Braves Fan - October 13, 2010
I know but it’s probably not going to get any easier than it is right now. Tough decision for Wren on that one.
king of games - October 13, 2010
Nope
Especially with Medlen and Jurrjen’s health being questionable now. With the way DLowe pitched the end of this season, I want him around.
BigG1392 - October 13, 2010
This.
Pavy848 - October 13, 2010
Lowe might have made us uneasy during the season
But he was lights out in September and is the guy I want on the mound in October.
E-Lizz - October 13, 2010
Will he be equally effective
1 year older and when the league has re-adjusted to his new MO? I am not sure.
Andy Braves Fan - October 13, 2010
The older you get
The sinkier that sinkerball gets.
Creek Johnson - October 13, 2010
except
it didn’t this season, which is why he had to make those adjustments in the first place.
Andy Braves Fan - October 14, 2010
I really liked how he worked to improve himself this year...
… a couple of times, in fact; mostly notably in September.
carpengui - October 13, 2010
Took the words right out of my mouth
I’m always impressed by star players who work hard at refining themselves.
Lowe could have sulked after last season, but he worked hard to correct problems in the off season and, when that wasn’t enough, continued to work on things until he got it right. (Reminds me of how he loaded the bases opening day of 2009, then struck out the side —no quit in the guy.)
And how about McCann’s defense? I haven’t looked at stats to confirm this, but my impression was that he was much harder to steal on this year and that it was something he had really worked to improve.
John Drake number 6 - October 14, 2010
I don't disagree on Lowe
just wondering how much more adjustment is left in him. He made some big ones this season to get to being effective again. I’m not rooting against him, but it’s fair to ask how many new tricks the old dog can learn.
McCann’s defense was much better, up to catching 30% of attempted thefts.
Andy Braves Fan - October 14, 2010
He's chucking that slider across the plate...
For a first pitch strike lately. I also like his rock and fire quick delivery he has been using lately. Seems to be getting in the groove and pitching very well. I hope it extends to 2011 and throughout the next season.
TCfromDubVee - October 14, 2010
He doesn't need any new tricks.
He just needs to continue pitching how he finished. He was flat out nasty down the stretch.
Tarkus - October 14, 2010
Agree
I feel we certainly would have moved Lowe or Jurrjens this offseason if Medlen was healthy. But no longer.
The Goche - October 13, 2010
Frank Wren would have to entertain offers for Lowe. I don’t think he would dump Lowe on a pure salary dump move (though that could probably help the club long term) but he obviously can’t pass on the possibility of getting a good young hitter in return.
LEastCoastBears - October 13, 2010
this pretty much is how I feel about it.
Andy Braves Fan - October 13, 2010
KK for Ryan Braun… Make it happen FW
That’s a fair trade!!! /sarcasm
HansonManCrush - October 13, 2010 via mobile
Maybe Carlos Quentin.
king of games - October 13, 2010
I still don’t think we would be able to move him without eating ~$10M. He had a good final month but he still is on the decline and he’s owed $30M over the next 2 years. His value is only slightly higher than it was last offseason and I doubt we find any considerably better offers.
jeg - October 14, 2010
Why keep Snitker at third
at least move him to 1st if we are going to hold onto him. We need a more aggressive man standing near third.
this makes me a saaad panda
ChitownBravos - October 13, 2010
Unless Brian McCann is rounding 3rd.
Zach Towery - October 14, 2010
Sad to see Glenn and Chino go
and surprised to see TP hanging around (thought he would bolt after being passed over for the manager job). Does TP have any experience with the middle infield positions?
LEastCoastBears - October 13, 2010
Has TP
Ever even played in the infield… Or at all??
HansonManCrush - October 13, 2010 via mobile
…Uh, he was a third baseman…that’s the infield…
cbwilk - October 13, 2010
Sorry
I forgot to mention the unbelievable amount of sarcasm that post was laced with lol
HansonManCrush - October 13, 2010 via mobile
Word. My bad, hard to detect on the net.
cbwilk - October 13, 2010
I know right
But i hate repeatedly having to type /sarcasm because I am extremely lazy
HansonManCrush - October 13, 2010 via mobile
Way to go, genius.
Creek Johnson - October 13, 2010
C'mon CB!!!!
I need a reason to buy your book…..but this ignorance you show on TC by not being able to sense a little sarcasm is losing you some much needed credibility.
That is what your book is about right?? Talking Chop?? If not it should be!
KJDH2154 - October 13, 2010
The book’s been out almost a year. If you haven’t bought it by now you probably never will.
cbwilk - October 13, 2010
Well that’s not the attitude to have! I’ve only been part of the TC community for about 6 months. So there is still hope!
KJDH2154 - October 13, 2010
Mastermike’s thorough review has turned me off from making this purchase.
bpk228480 - October 13, 2010
Yes, it was scathing. He actually turned me off from the book too.
cbwilk - October 13, 2010
I hope you read the sarcasm in my posts. I’m actually intrigued by the book, and the reviews, I may make the purchase in the near future. I’m a sucker for books on sports, regardless of the topic. I highly recommend “Playing to Win: Jerry Jones and the Dallas Cowboys” even if you aren’t a fan of the Cowboys, or Jerry Jones, it’s an interesting read for any sports fan IMO
KJDH2154 - October 13, 2010
Mine was sarcastic too
BFFL!
Creek Johnson - October 13, 2010
(He’s a comedian, but he didn’t seem to find the humor in our posts, ironic?)
KJDH2154 - October 13, 2010
Reminds me of a joke.
Man goes to doctor. Says he’s depressed. Says life seems harsh and cruel. Says he feels all alone in a threatening world where what lies ahead is vague and uncertain. Doctor says “Treatment is simple. Great clown Pagliacci is in town tonight. Go and see him. That should pick you up.” Man bursts into tears. Says “But Doctor… I am Pagliacci.” Good joke. Everybody laugh. Roll on snare drum. Curtains.
Creek Johnson - October 13, 2010
Alan Moore is one hell of a writer.
cbwilk - October 13, 2010
Indeed sir.
Indeed.
Creek Johnson - October 13, 2010
So any candidates for the job yet?
PhuckthePhillies - October 13, 2010
I was trying to think of who Fredi had worked with before that he’d want to have with him and Carlos Tosca completely slipped my mind. I love it. Just like Fredi, Carlos is a great guy and a wealth of baseball knowledge. He was actually with the Braves before, managing AAA Richmond in 2001. He followed that up by joining the Blue Jays coaching staff in 2002, before becoming the manager later in the year after Buck Martinez got fired, and ended up managing them through 2004. He’s also coached in the Majors for the Diamondbacks and Marlins, and managed in the Minors for the Yankees, Royals, and Marlins.
As far as a hitting coach, I already mentioned that Andres Galarraga might be a possibility, but another former Brave, Jim Presley, could be one too. He was Arizona’s hitting coach from 98 to 2000, and the Marlins’ hitting coach from 06 until he was fired along with Fredi and Tosca.
cbwilk - October 13, 2010
Re: Tosca
I like it alot.
Zeus12888 - October 13, 2010
Hmmm...
I would hope Fredi has nice things to say about his bench coach. Otherwise, well…
Creek Johnson - October 13, 2010
MY BENCH COACH IS A PIECE OF GARBAGE
SERIOUSLY WHY DID I HIRE THIS RETARD
DogDaysofSummer - October 13, 2010
NOBODY GETS TO YELL AT MY BENCH COACH BUT ME!
BUT YEAH I HATE THAT GUY. HE NEVER EVEN PLAYED BALL! WHAT A LOSER!
Creek Johnson - October 13, 2010
from DOB
leedawg - October 13, 2010
Don Baylor
That is all.
Creek Johnson - October 13, 2010
And as far as Fredi's nickname goes
I am in accordance with whoever said CubanLinx. Or if you want the whole thing, OnlyBuilt4CubanLinx.
Creek Johnson - October 13, 2010
Or perhaps OB4CL.
Creek Johnson - October 13, 2010
OBFORKEL?
TonyAlmeyda - October 13, 2010
spooning leads to forking?
ROBravo - October 13, 2010
YES
Fredi’s nickname is Obie Forkel. IT HAS BEEN WRITTEN.
Creek Johnson - October 13, 2010
Oberkfell?
Oh, wait.
carpengui - October 13, 2010
any word on when a professional quality vid is going on the official?
Chief Noc-A-Homa - October 13, 2010
I assume with all this player/coach talk about a hitting coach
Is referring to the hope that Melky and McClouth team up to take the job??
KJDH2154 - October 13, 2010
Melky bats switch
so he must be good.
Creek Johnson - October 13, 2010
Great point
I’m starting to think this is a no-brainer……
KJDH2154 - October 13, 2010
Greg Norton for hitting coach.
J-Turn14 - October 13, 2010
Hahaha
You’re fired.
PS: I expect a defense of this hiring very soon by Justin.
The Keith Lockhart Era - October 13, 2010
Greg Norton for hitting in the face when you strike out and get mad.
Creek Johnson - October 13, 2010
Glad to see they're keeping Eddie
This is obviously a very hypothetical thought and possibly years in the future if it ever does occur, but I can’t help but think it: Tosca is much older than Perez. If, a few years down the road, Tosca either goes elsewhere or hangs it up (assuming all is right with SS FreGo) does Eddie become our de facto next bench coach or do you think he’ll be getting other, bigger coaching offers from elsewhere by then? In all honesty, he’d have been my #2 pick behind the Fredi hiring.
The Keith Lockhart Era - October 13, 2010
Love that sig.
I never heard that comment before. Who would be the others Connie Mack maybe?
kp.atl - October 13, 2010
I don't think he specified when he said it...
But I’d assume some mix of Mack/McGraw/McCarthy etc. I couldn’t bring myself to add Tony LaRussa to that mix. And somewhere, John McGraw is proud of me for that.
The Keith Lockhart Era - October 13, 2010
Fredi Gonzalez
Tarkus - October 13, 2010
wow Wren really knows his stuff!
This hiring puts a DoubleTripleReverseBartSimpsonJasonHeyward Hex on the Marlins, ensuring that they will never spoil our season again.
-1 - October 13, 2010
/braves get swept in first series against marlins
DogDaysofSummer - October 13, 2010
BANNED!
KJDH2154 - October 13, 2010
COUNTER-BANNED!
Creek Johnson - October 13, 2010
ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
lingsched - October 13, 2010
ahhhhhhhhhhh in what context?
Creek Johnson - October 13, 2010
Fredi "The Cuban Lynx" Gonzalez
and Bobby said, ‘It is so.’
Chief Noc-A-Homa - October 13, 2010
He is the "CL"
kp.atl - October 13, 2010
No the nickname, as we discussed
is OB4CL, or Obie Forkel.
Creek Johnson - October 13, 2010
yeah……that one sucks, tho. lol. sounds like Steve Erkle’s cousin.
Chief Noc-A-Homa - October 14, 2010
I'm surprised...
…that Brooksy wasn’t hired to work with the infielders.
Thrashy Thrashy - October 13, 2010
Too soon
Creek Johnson - October 13, 2010
Waaaay too soon
But i chuckled
HansonManCrush - October 13, 2010 via mobile
too soon
DreamWithinADream - October 14, 2010
From Dave O'Brien on TP
AnEternalEnigma - October 13, 2010
but not too bad
because he still has one.
Matthew Jones - October 13, 2010
CHIPPER'S DAD FOR HITTING COACH!
Make it so, Darth Wren.
Jareth Cutestory - October 13, 2010
Chipper
for Hitting Coach if he can’t/doesn’t want to come back
apoxonbothyourhouses - October 14, 2010
I know this is completly off topic
but I found this great vid of Braves players getting tattooed. It’s pretty cool.
http://www.formula1movies.com/video/7GCBDCN_kXQ/All-or-Nothing-Tattoos-the-Atlanta-Braves.html
Hudson's Soul Patch - October 14, 2010
It’s old, but always a good one.
Scott Coleman - October 14, 2010
Just got back from the AFL game, a few notes:
Pastornicki was really impressive. He played second tonight and looked really good on D, though it didn’t look like he had the arm to play SS to me. Also has some really good speed, actually beat out a Melkyesque choppah back to the pitcher. Seemed to be on base all night, and everytime he was Harrilchack was moving him over.
Harrilchack didn’t really impress me in CF, but he did had some timely hits.
Cory Gearrin came in for a couple innings and looked really good, throws sidearm with decent velocity. Kyle Cofield didn’t look nearly as sharp, he gave up a bomb that I’m pretty sure hasn’t come back to earth yet.
Freeman looked really good on D, but his swing was still pretty ugly, reminded me a lot of Alex Gonzalez. He swings too much at bad pitches, but when he connects he hits it hard. Hit two to the warning track tonight, also GIDP and looked really bummed when he got a called HBP that just grazed his jersey. Gotta say, this kid has a cannon arm and I don’t think it would be that hard for him to play 3rd base.
king of games - October 14, 2010
excpet for the fact
that he’s 6’6", 220 and only going to get better. if we’ve learned anything from having BIG men at 3B, they get hurt an awful lot.
apoxonbothyourhouses - October 14, 2010
meant he's only going to get bigger
apoxonbothyourhouses - October 14, 2010
Not saying he should, but he certainly could with that arm. And he wasn’t as lumbering as you would think with his size.
king of games - October 14, 2010
Said to be a former pitching prospect...
who can get into the 90s.
Maybe he’s our LF (Klesko part deux), and we keep Lee or another 1B to be the RH bat.
Mr. Sanchez - October 14, 2010
He’s not mobile enough for left field. Also, he’s got Gold Glove ability at first base. Why would you move a guy who’s outstanding at one position to a position he wouldn’t be good at, all while he’s trying to get comfortable in the Big Leagues? It’s just a bad plan.
cbwilk - October 14, 2010
So negative lately cb, it’s our right as fans to imagine stuff that will never happen. Just seems like a waste to not let him ever utilize that arm when it would only increase his value as a player to at least learn other positions. Nobody is arguing that first base isn’t the primary and overall best position for him.
king of games - October 14, 2010
It’s not negative, I think Freddie is a fantastic player and I can’t wait to watch him play in Atlanta all next year and for many years after that, it’s just that the constant desire to move him to positions he wouldn’t be good at irritates me and I’m trying my best to nip it in the bud. I guess it’s like trying to empty out the ocean with a ladle, but still.
cbwilk - October 14, 2010
I feel if a player is capable of playing more than one position, he should work on it, at least in the offseason. Nobody is suggesting he should be moved to another position, but positional versatility has been a hallmark of the Braves organization for years and it never hurts to have guys that can fill in in a pinch. Obviously Freeman should focus completely on first base right now, but in a year or two, why not let him field some grounders at third every once in a while in practice? It only makes the Braves better
king of games - October 14, 2010
OR
He could spend that time learning to be a major leaguer, since, you know, he’ll be a rookie.
I don’t understand people wanting to move him. It would make sense if we had another great option at 1B but we don’t. We need him at first, so why don’t we focus on making sure he can play that really well?
Doghnut - October 14, 2010
He already CAN play first really well. Also, as I said before, nobody is saying to move him. And also as I said, he won’t still be a rookie in a year or two.
king of games - October 14, 2010
"learning to be a major leaguer"...
entails what exactly? Getting used to travel, 40,000+ stadiums, hotels and airplanes and groupies and 162 game seasons? I can get it might be a strain on the body and a mental grind, but baseball is baseball. It’s not like he’s going to have to learn a new game different from the one he’s been playing all his life.
Mr. Sanchez - October 14, 2010
You're right.
Rookie seasons are usually a breeze. Let’s have him learn a new position, even though we need him at his current position. Good idea.
Doghnut - October 14, 2010
I always thought Heyward should learn to play catcher...
You know, just in case… to increase his value.
Tarkus - October 14, 2010
Woosh...
as that went above your head apparently.
His rookie season will be what it is regardless of where he plays. The struggles of being a rookie and making those adjustments will be the same regardless of where he plays, and it’s not like he’ll be learning a new game in the process. LF isn’t some complex problem, it’s still catch the ball, throw the ball, hit the ball. We’re not talking taking a genetics man and saying, you’re a scientist, try being a heart surgeon. Or you’re a tax lawyer, try a medical malpractice case. How much does he have to “learn” to play LF?
And the idea was if we offered Lee arb, and he accepted. It might be easier to get the missing right handed bat that way than searching for a CF or LF that can fit that bill.
Mr. Sanchez - October 15, 2010
Wait
1) How in the world is Lee the right handed bat we’re missing? We have him now and we’re still missing a big right handed bat.
2) You’re trying to tell me that a rookie season spent learning a new position is the same as a rookie season playing a position that he’s played for years? Are you really telling me that you don’t see how that first scenario is significantly harder?
There is absolutely no logical reason to move Freddie. Yes, we need a LF. But guess what – we need a first baseman too! We finally have one and a damn good one at that. Why are people trying to change that? It just doesn’t make sense.
Doghnut - October 15, 2010
I completely agree. Adding the change of position dimension makes the rookie adjustment, which is already incredibly hard, exponentially more difficult.
cbwilk - October 16, 2010
But just cause he wouldn't be winning any Gold Gloves....
out there doesn’t make him incapable. Add Eric Hinske to the list of less mobile players in LF, who I assume Freeman can move as well as if not better. So he wouldn’t be the ideal LF and most likely be below average if not well below (like Dunn, or FUGA), but I certainly think he’d be capable of playing there. And if we had given him a few innings there in the second half while he was in Gwinnett, ala Morrison for Florida, then perhaps we could have seen if his bat was close enough to ready to fix the huge problem we had getting offensive output from anyone in the OF aside from Heyward.
Again, didn’t say it was a good plan, or where he should spend his career, but that it’s not some ludicrous idea like playing Glaus at SS.
Mr. Sanchez - October 14, 2010
wow
now I am going to have a nightmare of watching Glaus play SS for the Braves while listening to Joe Morgan repeat “He’s a professional hitter” like a broken record after every error. Thanks.
Andy Braves Fan - October 14, 2010
Did I say it was a good plan?....
And for a year, with Lee at 1B, it might make sense in the lineup. Didn’t say it was a good idea, or one I’d agree with, just tossing out possibilities.
And “not mobile enough for left field”? Really? The position where Adam Dunn played, where the svelte and speedy Pat Burrell and Raul Ibanez are the starters for the two NLCS teams, and where we trotted out Garrett Anderson for over 100 times less than 24 months ago? Suffice it to say, I disagree with that comment sir. I’d agree thought, that’s “it’s just a bad plan” (hence the Klesko comment, who I think would have turned out even better without the above mentioned plan in place where he was platooned against lefties constantly for years, and shuffled from 1B to LF back to 1B and then to LF again).
Mr. Sanchez - October 14, 2010
I know its not a good plan
because it wasn’t prefaced with the statement, “hey, hold my beer.” All great plans are prefaced this way.
Andy Braves Fan - October 14, 2010
Awesome
rec’d.
I’m still gonna try to make a game or two, but I wanna see how the PT works out for the Braves. I’m in Tucson and I don’t really wanna make the drive up to see a bunch of non-braves play.
Scott Coleman - October 14, 2010
I know. I hate it when I go to a game and see some of the top prospects in baseball play.
cbwilk - October 14, 2010
Well I’m sure you do. But for someone like me who isn’t huge on the minor league players to make the 2 hour drive to see a bunch of non-Braves doesn’t really sound all that great to me.
Scott Coleman - October 14, 2010
2 hours? That’s all? Aren’t you in your 20s? A 2 hour drive is nothing man. And when you get there you get to watch baseball, how awesome is that?
cbwilk - October 14, 2010
Well got the manager I wanted
just hope his choice of hitting coach turns out well…..
DrB - October 14, 2010
This is the part that I say.....
I told you that Fredi G would be our manager…most def after his altercation with H. Ramirez during the season….Which some said he would not get fired from that team. I am a little surprised that he kept as many of the coaches that he did. It is not normally done. I thought Leo might be asked back because he was here during the G man’s tenure.
I am sure that they will try to find a great hitting coach but if I am not mistaking it will be Fre-Go’s (?) decision.
bravestatoo - October 14, 2010
Most everyone else said it would happen to (including me), so you’re not exactly Nostradamus.
cbwilk - October 14, 2010
I would have liked for TP to have been shown the door, but I can deal with him getting the 1B coaching job. I was pretty sure McDowell and Perez would be retained, so no surprise there. It sucks for Cadahia and Hubbard, but such is the life of a coach and I expected Fredi to not keep everyone on the staff.
Zontar - October 14, 2010
Glenn Hubbard's gone?
Feels like he’s been around the Braves as long as I have…
Richard R - October 14, 2010
All this excitement
this is going to be a long winter, I hope they keep the news coming. I hate the off-season and having to go so long between any kind of Braves or baseball news stories. Hopefully this year, with all the changes, things will be different. Sad to see Hubbard go, but so far I like what I see. Is it spring training yet?!?!?!?
HeyMikey - October 14, 2010
another press conf today?
earlier they said Bobby would talk yesterday and today was Fredi, is that still happening or did they do both of those yesterday??
bravesfan1047 - October 14, 2010
They did both yesterday.
Tarkus - October 14, 2010
Fre-Go sounds very uggly
in Spanish, “frego” means he washed the dishes
or we use “frego” like a slang. In that way “frego” means something like if someone does damage to something.
i.e. “El le frego el aparato” = “He broke the device”
joshant - October 14, 2010
So Gondee is either racist or he thinks Fredi is going to break the Braves?
king of games - October 14, 2010
That sounds like a win-win statement to me!
DogDaysofSummer - October 14, 2010
Urban Dictionary
1. Frego
when one is really high
“yo dog, im so frego.”
KJDH2154 - October 14, 2010
Wanted to stop over here when this was first announced
Congratulations on the new manager. I think it’s a great choice and I’ve always liked Gonzalez. I gained a huge amount of respect for him when he benched Hanley Ramirez and thought it was incredibly short-sighted of Loria to fire him when he did. Made it seem as if Ownership was backing a prima donna player over their manager.
From everything I’ve read, he’s a standup guy and his history with the team should serve him well.
Chutley's Impressed by Mac's Speed - October 14, 2010
I am going to call him "FryGone"
as in “Let FryGones be FryGones.”
roberty - October 14, 2010
Hmmmmm... fries.
Tarkus - October 14, 2010
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