As most of the readers on here know, the Braves lost again to the Mets on Saturday, which ended our season as well fell to 8-9. Our starting pitching is inconsistent. The offense is horrible. The defense is laughable. The bullpen is over-worked. And so on. The Braves should stop worrying about their upcoming opponents because the 2010 season is a failure and we should shift our focus on scouting the prospects in the 2011 draft.
This is basically what's been posted on Talking Chop since Thursday night when we lost to Jamie Moyer and the Phillies.
To be honest, it's getting ridiculous.
First, let's look at how the 2009 playoff teams started their season last year.
As of April 24th, 2009 here were the records of the NL's playoff teams:
| Phillies | 8-8 |
| Cardinals | 12-5 |
| Dodgers | 12-5 |
| Rockies | 5-10 |
As you can see, the Braves would be right in the middle of all these teams. While I didn't go back and look, I can't imagine any of these teams played as difficult of a schedule that the 2010 Braves have played. Just in case you've forgotten, here's a look at the teams the Braves have/will play in April:
Looking at the schedule, the Braves face a ton of quality and talented opponents and even one of the lesser teams on our schedule, the Padres, have been surprising in 2010. When people say stuff like "shit, we're in last place and already 3 games behind the Phillies" it just makes you look silly. The Braves have played a very tough schedule with very few off days and have already made one of the 2 West Coast trips of the season. It's not like the Braves are going to have this schedule all season long. It'll get easier. Much easier.
Next, let's look at our hitters. Are some of them struggling to start the season? Yeah. Will it continue? No.
Here are some of our guys who are struggling at the plate, along with their current average along with their career average:
| Yunel Escobar | .203 | .304 |
| Nate McLouth | .150 | .261 |
| Matt Diaz | .162 | .309 |
| Troy Glaus | .167 | .256 |
| Melky Cabrera | .135 | .270 |
Are you telling me that all those guys are going to hit 100 or 150 points below their career batting averages for the next 5 months? There's no way. Our hitters are struggling at the plate now, but they'll come around.
Looking at our starting pitchers, all have been good besides Derek Lowe. Tommy Hanson has been solid this year, with the only exception coming against the Phillies where he battled a high pitch count. Tim Hudson has regained his form from the 2008 season and looks 100% from TJS. Jair Jurrjens has looked great besides his San Diego meltdown and is still a victim of no run support. And Kenshin Kawakami is pitching like a fantastic #5 starter, who, like Jurrjens, receives no run support. These guys will be more than fine.
Looking at the bullpen, here's how many appearances and innings pitched our relievers have had in 2010:
| Billy Wagner | 6 | 6.0 |
| Takashi Saito | 7 | 7.0 |
| Peter Moylan | 8 | 7.2 |
| Eric O'Flaherty | 9 | 7.2 |
| Kris Medlen | 8 | 10.2 |
| Jesse Chavez | 6 | 8.1 |
| Jonny Venters | 3 | 6.0 |
Kris Medlen is the only pitcher with more than 10 innings pitched and that's to be expected with him being the long-man in the bullpen. Eric O'Flaherty leads the team with 9 appearances, but throws few pitches per appearance, especially when he comes in as a LOOGY. The same can be said about Moylan whenever the team needs a DP or faces a tough righty. The two veterans in the 'pen, Wagner and Saito, are both on pace for a very manageable work load and should be able to get through the season without too much fatigue. The bullpen has been very good so far and will continue to be throughout the season.
As you've read this, I hope you've gotten the purpose of this post. And if you haven't, here it is: For all you doubters and worry warts out there, STOP WORRYING. Things will get better for the Atlanta Braves. Are we struggling now? You bet. And will it continue for another week or so? It certainly could. But will it continue for the rest of the season? Hell no.
Thanks for reading and Go Braves.
3 recs | 202 comments
nice recap
It’s frustrating as hell to watch, but you’re right, the Braves will be fine. 3 games out of the NL top record is not that big a deal. Expectations were high, disappointments have been many. When the Braves get near normal, we have a team with very few easy outs. I’m looking forward to it,
Will Chipper and McCann ever call one of their famous closed door meetings, or is it just too early?
bighop - April 25, 2010
closed door meetings?
would be interested to read about them if they’re real.
BMacAttack - April 25, 2010
Announcers used to allude to these taking place 2 or 3 times a year. No coaches, no press, just players getting in each others ears.
bighop - April 25, 2010
Thank you.
Gage23 - April 25, 2010
haha
On the side of my screen, there is a headline from SBN that says: “Chipper Jones Injures Hip On What Is Allegedly His 38th Birthday”
Doghnut - April 25, 2010
I didn’t know Jon Bois was a SBN writer now, he’s a funny guy. I can’t say I’ve checked that often these days, but I really liked the stuff he wrote for WordupThome.com back in the day. Best stuff to read fake chat logs for people who really liked Velcro’s old stuff. Not sure about the jokes about his age – he’s not a 16-year old Latin prospect.
royhobbs - April 25, 2010
This.
Thank you for saying this.. perhaps we can have a separate gameday thread for the cut-and-run-with-90%-of-the-season-left folks… although I fear a mass suicide.
The question then becomes.. would anyone try to stop them?
BMacAttack - April 25, 2010
Hell of an idea, a positive thread and a negative thread. How about we all sign an agreement that if we whine unendingly we accept a 7 day ban once the Braves win 8 out of a 10 game stretch.
bighop - April 25, 2010
Devi's Advocate....
Obviously it’s way too early to be giving in to despair. I think what is bothering everyone is how is this team going to hit better than last year’s team? I know some hitters are really struggling who haven’t in the past (Escobar and Diaz in particular), but there’s no guarantee the Glaus experiment is going to work.
Heyward is amazing, but it’s a lot to ask him to carry the offense. Jones is becoming ever more injury prone. We have a defensive and offensive question mark at first base.
Negative people are annoying, especially when we’re losing; however, things aren’t exactly rosy.
mdhenshaw - April 25, 2010
I think Glaus deserves more time. He was awesome in ST, but showed no power. Now he’s hit a few HR’s, a few hard, long line drives that have been caught and just needs to meld the contact and power. He looks like he’s putting a HR swing on every pitch, if he would tone that down from time to time, he’d see more successful AB’s.
Chipper may or may not have a serious injury. If he does, I’m cool with Prado at 3rd, Infante at 2nd, or vice versa. Call up Thurston for bench help. I hope Chipper is back in a day or two, we need his leadership as much as his bat.
bighop - April 25, 2010
Another thing to think about… some of his hits would probably gotten over the fence if the weather was a bit warmer. Like the one that Victorino caught. He’ll get it going
dkinser86 - April 25, 2010
thank you for this
haha i know that some others along with myself have been getting frustrated with all the negativity around the threads….i just stopped participting for the last couple
dc_allday - April 25, 2010
I’m glad to see other people that have faith that the Braves will make Bobby’s last year as coach a really good one. Was feeling like the only one that did. I’m gonna fuss and say that anybody complaining about certain people struggling at bat thinks they can do better, well why didn’t you make the team? Everyone gets in a slump. Hang in there it will get better!
pamie jo - April 25, 2010
This
You are the VOICE OF REASON. It’s only April. The schedule was tough and we are still in the battle. The offense will one day catch up with the pitching. We as fans just have to be realistic. No team in baseball (Not even the Yanks of the 20’s with Ruth) can go 162-0 or the way the fans feel on this site 130-32. Just relax and hope for a better tomorrow.
romone_braves91 - April 25, 2010
As much as I enjoy the GTs - they're even wearing on me now.
(and I fully realize I may be wearing on some too)
I know that the Braves are frustrating to watch of late. But, the constant declarations of gloom and doom get tiresome. We can express our frustration at a particular play, missed opportunity, etc. during the game … but it doesn’t have to lead to dozens of posts asking for a total reevaluation of the team lineup, managerial decisions, Wrenn’s intelligence or the perceived destiny of the team for the season.
A little perspective would be nice – and I appreciate those on here who keep trying to bring it into the discussions in posts like these and the game recaps.
NCChopper - April 25, 2010
I feel the same way
I am kind of glad that I won’t be able to be on the GT tonight (I have plans—though I still should be able to watch most of the game). I need a break from all the whining and moaning.
Jacob Peterson - April 25, 2010
agreed.
Doghnut - April 25, 2010
I agree, after Friday night, I took a break from the OT yesterday.
It’s frustrating that these young kids get on there, making BS comments. It’s obvious they know very little about the Braves, and they are just on there to fuss and curse. Is their nothing that can be done to block kids under a certain age from commenting or posting on TC?
HEYJUDE - April 25, 2010
they arent all kids
Doghnut - April 25, 2010
besides
anyone can lie about their age…its the internet
Doghnut - April 25, 2010
I am a 215 year old lich.
Try and prove me wrong.
DogDaysofSummer - April 25, 2010
Ages restrictions?? Positive-Negative threads???? C'mon
It’s pretty simple don’t read the posts! If you want age restrictions start a pay-site. Stick with people’s posts you like to read or people with some sense of humor. I think people are concerned (and rightfully so IMO) cause there are deeper problems lurking here….I don’t know what going on with Escobar…..Glaus may never come around and I think Diaz has been playing over his head the last two seasons and maybe coming back to earth… Chipper’s old and will be lucky to hit 20hr’s….Melky looks awful….but he can be better….McLouth will bounce back. I mean its not like we have one or two concerns….there are several…and we all knew going into this season the "if’s"with this team and in order to win those “if’s” need to pan out…So far they haven’t and there’smore “if’s” now than in the off-season.
Nova Scotia Steve - April 25, 2010 via mobile
I actually agree with the last two thirds of that post. The “if’s” part especially.
The first third bugs me though. I concider TC as a “premium” blog. Gondeee, CBWilk, RoyHobbs, Youdemei, MVHSBball and Pacgnosis set a pretty high standard. I sincerly hope that I don’t drag it down with my inexperience and lack of knowledge. But it IS being dragged down in my opinion. I have enough respect for the site and its’ Moderators to know that “this too shall pass”. Maybe it’s the price you pay when readership and participation reach a certain point. It’s too bad really, I’ve read too many comments from long term TCers that they are shying away, that by itself will kill a good site. It takes good Mods as well as informed and rational contributors. I’ve got a feeling some tough decisions will have to be made before long, or this site could end up being like the sites that TCers make fun of.
bighop - April 25, 2010
I dont know if restrictions can be made, but I am pretty tired of people cursing on here. Is there a way you can block it?
HereComesBream - April 25, 2010
Fuck that.
BullManUGA - April 25, 2010
^ lmao
Sorry. People are cursing on tv these days like sailors. Society is fucked. Especially the kids. That’s the ugly truth of it.
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
People have been saying society is fucked for 600 years now.
DogDaysofSummer - April 25, 2010
Yeah, but that was before MTV and VH1 was rotting everyone’s brain.
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
And back then, they were gathering blackberries, not worshipping them.
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
I just found it funny that someone who posts useless nonsense in every GT doesn’t like the cursing.
BullManUGA - April 25, 2010
The only tv I watch anymore is the Braves. And maybe History or Discovery. Most everything else is complete trash. And every commercial I see gives me another grey hair.
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
no play for mr. grey
rejeccteddddddd
bpk228480 - April 25, 2010
His ’stache is trash!!
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
Cursing has always been acceptable on TC
As long as it isnt over the top or out of hand. There’s nothing wrong with the occasional or even semi-often curse word.
Doghnut - April 25, 2010
Agreed!
It’s fine if they do it once in a while, but not excessively. Then it’s just annoying.
HereComesBream - April 25, 2010 via mobile
Yes.
Like screaming “DAAAAAAAMN!!!!!” and feeling the need to type it, as well, when the opposing team hits a 3-run go ahead HR. It’s an expression of momentary frustration with the baseball gods.
EricGreggWasPaidOff - April 25, 2010
Now how could anyone get tired of you?
bravos1984 - April 25, 2010
Amen, my brother
There’s no doubt that we’ve been playing like crap lately. But things will get better, and we’re only 1 game under .500. Imagine how bad the Rockies fans felt at this time last year, and they ended up alright. If you have a good team (and we do), they will start playing like it sooner or later.
Jacob Peterson - April 25, 2010
The Rockies season turned around right about the time they fired Clint Hurdle – ha.
CharlotteChop - April 25, 2010
So your solution is to fire Bobby Cox?
;)
UMDBHIK - April 25, 2010
Absolutely not, I love ol’ Bobby and will be very sad to see him hang it up. Firing TP, I can get on board with that. My main point was that the Rockies’ turnaround coincided with something drastic.
CharlotteChop - April 25, 2010
My inference was purely tongue-in-cheek.
Perhaps Wren should fire Clint Hurdle, despite the fact he is not a Braves’ employee?
UMDBHIK - April 25, 2010
I like it, doesn’t he work for MLB Network. If we could figure out a way to get him fired, the Braves are on their way to 95 wins. :)
CharlotteChop - April 25, 2010
Clint Hurdle
Is the hitting instuctor for the Texas Rangers.
Nova Scotia Steve - April 25, 2010 via mobile
Ah, you are right…how can we get him fired from the Rangers in order to turn the Braves’ season around. ha.
CharlotteChop - April 25, 2010
Make a fake email pretending to be the Rangers and tell him he’s fired then make amother email pretending to be Cox and say he’s hired for the Braves! Simple and easy. Now we just need his email…
HereComesBream - April 25, 2010 via mobile
Great point about the Rockies
I hope Chipper gets back sooner than later. But without being reactionary, that might be the catalyst for change that turns the Braves around like the Rockies Mgr change did their ‘09 season. Infante can cover for a few days no hassle. His obliques are an issue, now his hip has flared up. if he goes to the 15 day DL, Infante and Thurston can sub-in no problem. If it turns out to be career threatening, Escobar, Diaz, McLouth or Cabrera with a prospect might be used to bring in a 2B, SS, 3B, LF or CF that can fill some needs. We need Chipper’s leadership, but we need him healthy too. His comments last Fall make me worry about this latest injury.
I hope I’m not going too far over the top, it seems reasonable to me that a 38 yr old with a hip injury could become a serious problem.
bighop - April 25, 2010
Good Recap
I did some BABIP research yesterday of the Braves’ last ten seasons. Admittedly, I haven’t looked at many boxscores but what I have watched it doesn’t seem the Braves are striking out THAT much. Anyway, for the last ten seasons the Braves BABIP is roughly .300. This April, its .270 and the last week its down around .210. Give this stat time to correct itself and things will get better. Alot of players are pressing. If the Braves weren’t already battling Chipper’s injuries and Prado’s iffy hammy – I’d say bench Escobar for a week after that crap stunt yesterday in order to “get his head out” as Joe Simpson so eloquently put yesterday.
CharlotteChop - April 25, 2010
Good Recap
I did some BABIP research yesterday of the Braves’ last ten seasons. Admittedly, I haven’t looked at many boxscores but what I have watched it doesn’t seem the Braves are striking out THAT much. Anyway, for the last ten seasons the Braves BABIP is roughly .300. This April, its .270 and the last week its down around .210. Give this stat time to correct itself and things will get better. Alot of players are pressing. If the Braves weren’t already battling Chipper’s injuries and Prado’s iffy hammy – I’d say bench Escobar for a week after that crap stunt yesterday in order to “get his head out” as Joe Simpson so eloquently put yesterday.
CharlotteChop - April 25, 2010
Here's a little number I tossed off recently in the Caribbean......
Here’s a little song i wrote,
you might want to sing it note for note,
don’t worry, be happy
in every life we have some trouble,
when will glaus finally hit a double
don’t worry, be happy
dont worry be happy now
dont worry be happy
dont worry be happy
dont worry be happy
dont worry be happy
aint got no place to lay your bat,
pablo sandoval is really fat
don’t worry, be happy
pendleton say your swing is late,
never too late to rosterbate,
dont worry (small laugh) be happy,
look at me im happy,
don’t worry, be happy
i give you my phone number,
when your worried, call me,
i make you happy
don’t worry, be happy
no run support, strikezone is small,
mclouth not putting good wood on the ball
but don’t worry, be happy
cos when you worry, your face will frown,
and that will bring the whole bench down,
so don’t worry, be happy
don’t worry, be happy now…
don’t worry, be happy
don’t worry, be happy
don’t worry, be happy
don’t worry, be happy
now there this song i wrote
i hope you you learned it note for note
like good little ballplayers
dont worry be happy
listen to what i say
in your life expect some trouble
heyward just smoked that pitch for a double
dont worry be happy
be happy now
dont worry, be happy
dont worry, be happy
dont worry, be happy
dont worry, be happy
dont worry
dont worry be happy
don’t worry, don’t worry, don’t do it,
be happy,put a smile on your face,
don’t bring everybody down like this
don’t worry, it will soon pass whatever it is,
don’t worry, be happy,
i’m not worried
More lyrics: http://www.lyricsmode.com/lyrics/b/bob_marley/#share
UMDBHIK - April 25, 2010
LOL. Perfecttt
Rec’d
nick9314 - April 25, 2010
Awesomeness!
Especially the part about Sandoval. Rec’d!
HereComesBream - April 25, 2010
I’m still cracking up…
vooodooo - April 25, 2010
Thanks for the kind words, folks.
I was just trying to capture the spirit of the thing……..
UMDBHIK - April 25, 2010
Well put. The pitching will be fine. More wins will come. I’m not willing to admit that the offense will be completely fine though. I’m only saying that because this isn’t a problem that has developed this first few weeks. It’s not a slump. We have trouble scoring runs. I’m not calling for a revolution, I’m stating the very obvious. It’s been the same problem as the past two seasons.
I’m ABSOLUTELY POSITIVE this team will recover. More people need to be POSITIVE this team will recover. Just know you’re going to be frustrated a lot more these next several months.
MTSU11 - April 25, 2010
I'm gonna be optimistic here on out... really.
I’ve never counted the braves out for the season or even for the next game. It’s frustrating when you know the team is capable of so much more and you keep wanting to see that. I followed the braves since i can remember, so I think the expectations are always high for the team and this blog is a way to vent some temporary frustration. I honestly don’t believe Escobar, McLouth, Diaz, and Glaus can hit this bad all year. When we start getting the production from those guys that we expect we will be on our way. So I apologize for my negativity at times, I’m honestly going to work on being more optimistic because there is a lot of games left to play and i know what this team is capable of.
So let’s go whip the Mets ass tonight.
BravesFanScout - April 25, 2010
You know, we all assumed going into this season that we’d have no easy outs in the lineup. Come to find out, we have holes all over the place. The leadoff spot is a black hole no matter who plays in it. Don’t look now but McCann has only 3 hits in his last 21 at-bats. Glaus cannot take advantage of all the RISP opportunities he’s had this year, Escobar has his head elsewhere (I don’t see the Braves ever signing him to a long-term deal), Heyward has struggled in the last week or so, and the #8 spot has been better here lately.
It’s great to say that the people who are struggling are going to start to turn it around. Scoring 14 runs in the last 7 games though just isn’t something to make me all rosy on the inside.
dunnytwogloves - April 25, 2010
If TP was out of the equation, I wouldn't be as worried.
Just being honest.
Stay away from him J-Hey……shit.
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
This
MTSU11 - April 25, 2010
PIRATES RELEASED BRANDON JONES
Doesn’t he play outfield? lol
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
I thought Brandon was still in our farm system?
Oh wait never mind…that’s Brandon hicks I’m thinking of. Did Jones go to Pitt in the McLouth trade?
HereComesBream - April 25, 2010 via mobile
we DFA’d him to make room on our roster for Glaus.
Scott Coleman - April 25, 2010
Apparently nobody loves him….not even the Pirates. :(
EricGreggWasPaidOff - April 25, 2010
It isn't the batter's slumps that worry me.
It’s what Bobby does about them if they continue, that’s all. I haven’t forgot how long he let Frenchy and Schafer continue to start last year. Frenchy should have been benched the end of May. Melky, in case nobody noticed has worse career stats than Frenchy. I hope like Hell nobody and I do mean nobody stays in their slump this year. I’ve invested a lot of money in season tix this year and I’ll be taking members of my grandson’s little league team to the games and I would really like for them to see winning games. I have said it before, last year as well, I wish we had a different hitting coach.
jimmontg - April 25, 2010
Thanks for that. I really needed someone to get in my face about this. We CAN win, we WILL win and we WILL get to the playoffs. Even the Yankees lose, believe it or not. You can’t win them all.
As for TP…. There’s just no words.
HereComesBream - April 25, 2010
Yeah and believe it or not I don't want to see Melky lose his job.
I don’t expect him to hit better than he has in the past I just hope he can come up with more clutch runs like he did for the Damned Yankees.
jimmontg - April 25, 2010
How about some Hitchhikers
McCann and McWill - April 25, 2010
On A positive Note...
Sorry, I am missing that one right now. After watching the first game live at the Ted my expectations for this season soared as high as the Ted’s outfield coke bottle…then something happend on the road trip;
That first game lossto SF in the extra innings seemed to set the tone for the road trip to the tune of mediocrity..(I think I will also include a “note” of the 17-2 drumming by SD?)….And since we are getting musical I will put my lyrics to the tune of; “I Left my HEART in San Francisco”.
I left my heart in San Francisco………
………hmmmmmm
………ahhhhhmmmmm
sorry, forgot the tune maybe I will just let the title say it all?
To get their “heart” back the Braves wil have to depend on Bobby C to work some magic….
Now we are talking song choices!
Duran Duran’s “Is There Something I should know”…yea a little deep maybe on a lighter note?
wo wo wo it’s magic, never beleve its not so….its magic; damn, getting into “don’t worry, be happy” territory!
Alright, some lyrics….as promised
The Brave’s Alma mater:
“On our city’s southern border
rear’d against the sky
Proudly stands the Turner stadium
pardum the tear in my eye
….
for 15 years we were the team
that other’s feared to face
now that we have lost our wayother’s have replaced
So here we stand to rise again
masters of our fate
go braves go! (insert tomahawk chop)
bravestatoo - April 25, 2010
I’ll be the first one to admit that I’m close to giving up on the team this year. But it’s not because of slow starts, i.e. Glaus, Melky, Esco, etc. Nor is it due to ineffective pitching, i.e. Lowe, JJ’s bad game, Wagner’s blown save, etc. I’m on the fence because this team is playing pitiful baseball. It’s almost like they have forgotten the fundamentals that we all learned when we were 12. A first ballot hall of famer forgetting what to do on in infield fly rule? A guy not tagging from 3rd on a deep fly ball to right center? Not moving runners over. Bases loaded strike outs. All of this points to a team that seems to not really give a damn. And yes, I know they care. Yes, I know they want to win, particularly since it’s Bobby’s last season. But other than a select few (Hudson, JJ, Prado, Heyward), this team just doesn’t look hungry. And until I see a fire in their eyes, I’ll continue to look ahead to 2011.
Bobby Cocks - April 25, 2010
Hopefully, all of those aformentioned incidents were addressed in the closed door team meeting and they fix themselves starting tonight. It’s too obvious the teams’ high hopes coming out of spring training and the slow offensive start is carrying over to almost all other aspects of the game besides pitching.
CharlotteChop - April 25, 2010
I think that's a good point
Things haven’t really gone their way, particularly against Halladay when they started stroking the ball but never got the bounces. Maybe they let it get into their heads and stopped focusing as much on the basics. I haven’t totally given up yet, because I know the talent is still there. But my confidence level has taken a nice drop.
Bobby Cocks - April 25, 2010
sorry missed the reply -my post directly below was response to your comment.
CharlotteChop - April 25, 2010
How do we know they had a closed door team meeting?
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
i thought someone earlier had reference that? maybe not…
CharlotteChop - April 25, 2010
I mean, I hope they did. I was just wondering if anyone knew this as a fact.
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
closed door meeting
I posted that they should, not that they did
bighop - April 25, 2010
They probably just wasted more time hitting up the cages with TP.
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
all those little things point to a poorly coached team
samxrm - April 25, 2010
I disagree
I’ve had this debate with many others. As much as I respect your side of the argument, I will never blame Bobby Cox, nor any other professional baseball manager, for poor fundamentals, particularly those that were learned at a young age. I will not blame Bobby Cox for Chipper’s screw up on the infield fly. I will not blame Bobby Cox for Escobar failing to tag on Glaus’s fly ball. Is this really what a manager should be doing at this level, teaching professional baseball players when to tag on a fly ball? Really?
There is a time and a place for criticism against Bobby. Overuse of the bullpen, sure. Too many sac bunts, sure. But this is not what is killing the team so far, so Bobby is not to blame.
Bobby Cocks - April 25, 2010
Frenchy and Acosta didn’t look like the hopeless Braves players they once were.
Or, were we not watching the same game?
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
Again, Frenchy could be attributed to TP or just needing a new venue, as he had way too much pressure in Atlanta.
And Acosta has already blown up as a Met. I can’t believe you’re using one game to try and make a point.
Bobby Cocks - April 25, 2010
lol. touche. That slider from Acosta was nuts, tho. As a Brave, that pitch would have been right down the middle. Guaranteed.
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
Not guaranteed.
Acosta’s problem has always been inconsistency. It would be more like 50/50 between “nuts” and “right down the middle”. He just had a good night – he was lucky. It still hurts losing game where he gets the win, though.
EricGreggWasPaidOff - April 25, 2010
like getting kicked in the nuts
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
*a game
EricGreggWasPaidOff - April 25, 2010
There seems to be alot of assuming going on with the coaches. Assuming they know the rules. Assuming they know what to do in a given situation. Maybe they don’t.
It’s been noted that we have hitters going outside the team for help. Doesn’t this in itself have serious undertones to something kind of bad?
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
Ok, I'll digress a bit
By blaming the coaches, I just assumed people blame Bobby. Now, I’ll fully buy the argument that TP should be gone. I wouldn’t bat an eye if that happened. And perhaps Bobby could be partially blamed for not getting rid of him. But in the end, that call is up to Frank Wren, so I still give Bobby the benefit of the doubt.
Bobby Cocks - April 25, 2010
Let Chipper become the hitting coach
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
Sure...
When he retires from playing.
EricGreggWasPaidOff - April 25, 2010
Hampton passed the “Mr. Glass” personna on to Chip.
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
It must be a diminished version.
Hampton missed entire seasons. Chipper only misses fractions of seasons, broken up into groups of a few games at a time.
EricGreggWasPaidOff - April 25, 2010
The only thing scarier than TP remaining as hitting coach is that the only logical reason he could still be around is that he will be next season’s manager?
I agree with BobbyCocks though – at this level, no player should EVER have to be told to tag up from 3rd with less than two outs on a fly ball. What are you going to do, hire a bilingual 3B coach to tell Yunel “now, Yunel there is only one out…make sure you tag up if the ball is hit in the air”? BobbyCock, i say….
CharlotteChop - April 25, 2010
He’ll be the manager in 2011.
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
Bring back old Leo Mazzone.
DogDaysofSummer - April 25, 2010
Agreed man
I have been hoping we would get Mazzone back ever since he left.
AlabamaTitans2009 - April 25, 2010
Where is Mazzone these days?
EricGreggWasPaidOff - April 25, 2010
Baltimore
GoBravesNY - April 25, 2010
Nope he got fired 3 years ago.
Because if you turn the O’s into AL EAST leaders in two years then you suck.
DogDaysofSummer - April 25, 2010
really? wow
GoBravesNY - April 25, 2010
can't turn*
DogDaysofSummer - April 25, 2010
haha
yeah
lol
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
i believe he is on the radio in atlanta
last I heard anyway
Doghnut - April 25, 2010
yes...
saw him opening day at the game on the mike….his face is on the web page for one of Atl’s sports talk radio station
bravestatoo - April 26, 2010
Mine has too – though I am trying to stay optimistic. Maybe our expectations were too high also. But I think the “tough schedule” and “buzzsaw pitching performances” are just excuses. This team is underperforming, we all realize it, we can just only be optimistic that things turnaround. But regarding my Clint Hurdle comment earlier, it may take something drastic to do it (fire TP, early season cut or trade, etc.) I’m still on board, just one butt cheek is hanging ever so slightly off the wagon. I will be glad to hear the “told you sos” later on.
CharlotteChop - April 25, 2010
If people need a reminder of just how truly awful Braves baseball can be, I remind them of the late-80s to 1990 versions. There was just some awful, awful baseball games played those years.
This little patch is NOTHING compared to those teams. Keep your chins up, folks. I know it’s hard, but the old cliche “it’s always darkest before the dawn” applies.
PUMP IT UP!
UMDBHIK - April 25, 2010
true, I remember those days!
CharlotteChop - April 25, 2010
the late 80s weren’t as bad as people make it out to be.
Yeah, the on field product was attrocious, plus it was swiftly followed by the Nick Esasky vertigo disaster, the spurning by Todd Van Poppel and the very rapid decline of Dale Murphy.
But even in those dark days there was some serious buzz about those teams. Every intelligent baseball mind knew the Braves had some awesome young prospects (John Smoltz, Tom Glavine, Steve Avery, Kevin Brown, Pete Smith, Kent Merker, Tommy Greene, Mike Stanton, Derek Lilliquist, etc…that’s an enormous amount of young pitching talent in one farm system. Plus we had Ron Gant, David Justice and a lot of other good looking young prospects Mark Lemke, Andres Thomas, Brian Jordan, Vinny Castilla, etc…
The run of greatness in the 90s wasn’t that surprising to people who followed player development in the 80s.
DCP916 - April 25, 2010
That being said, can we get Dale Murphy to play first?
CharlotteChop - April 25, 2010
Bring back Ryan Klesko imo
DogDaysofSummer - April 25, 2010
And Hammerin’ Hank. And Maddux. And….
Do I need to go on?
HereComesBream - April 25, 2010 via mobile
Pascual Perez is not walking through that door! Claudell Washington is not walking through that door! Ken Oberkfell is not walking through that door!
CharlotteChop - April 25, 2010
THANK YOU.
Posts like this are why I finally joined Talking Chop (hi, I’m new!). After a friend had me sift through the AJC blogs last night, I found myself giving in to the overwhelming negativity and general ineptitude of the comments. This has helped bring me back to reality and realize that it’s still only April. We’re only 3 games out of first place three weeks into the season! We’re going to be ok!
Sarahbeth - April 25, 2010
Welcome, keep the positive thoughts coming, we need them
bighop - April 25, 2010
Thanks for the welcome! I’ll try to keep ‘em coming. I will admit it’s been a little more difficult over these past two or three games, but I’m ever optimistic!
Sarahbeth - April 25, 2010
Welcome to TC,
it’s a fun place to be, most of the time :)
HEYJUDE - April 25, 2010
Welcome!!
Keep an eye out for these goobers around here. I swear, some of them are just too offensive for my liking, dah-ling.
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
Welcome Sarabeth. I’m hoping your name indicates we ladies have another comrade to enjoy the Bravos with!
NCChopper - April 25, 2010
Thanks! And you sure do!
Sarahbeth - April 25, 2010
Wilkommen, and Bienvenue!
I’ve never gone to the AJC blogs, but I’m guessing it’s not Pulitzer-caliber material.
UMDBHIK - April 25, 2010
Out of curiosity, I went over there to read what people were saying.
That’s just a whole other level of stupid right there.
UMDBHIK - April 25, 2010
Haha, It’s ridiculous! That place attracts morons like a light attracts moths.
And thanks for the welcome!
Sarahbeth - April 25, 2010
I’m always a glass half full kind of guy…..
Having said that, we need 4 or 5 guys to click right now. Hopefully it happens sooner rather than later. They all look lost.
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
That whole looking lost thing has definitely been the most disheartening thing. I just keep reminding myself that if all else fails, someone will take a frying pan to their heads to straighten them out. And I’m willing to do that.
Sarahbeth - April 25, 2010
All?
Prado?
EricGreggWasPaidOff - April 25, 2010
………………..Except. For. Prado.
Might as well be all. He can’t be a one man team. His efforts go wasted.
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
I'd still disagree.
Infante, Hinske, Chipper, Heyward…
EricGreggWasPaidOff - April 25, 2010
RIP Samantha Lynn
I won’t be on the boards today or at the OT during the game.
I’ll be sipping a beer, raising a toast to my best friend…
RIP in the grass fields in the sky, old girl
Vance in Sacramento - April 25, 2010
Samantha the GSD
For some reason it’s not letting me put the picture up here…
Vance in Sacramento - April 25, 2010
Sorry to hear that. There is nothing like a really cool dog.
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
Beautiful dog,
I feel your pain. Our Australian Shepherd, was diagnosed with cancer, and had to be put down last season. I still miss him so much. Hang in there …….
HEYJUDE - April 25, 2010
RIP
love dogs.
Scott Coleman - April 25, 2010
Aww what a cute puppy. Sorry for your loss…
HereComesBream - April 25, 2010 via mobile
I’m really hoping we can get the game in tonight. I live in NJ and it’s not raining here but the forecast looks like it could go either way as far as Citi Field.
strider15 - April 25, 2010
the only thing...
the only thing I’m worried about… escobar…. he doesn’t seem right.
But we have a bench, the rest of our team will be alright.
Braves Biceps - April 25, 2010
He makes a bone-headed play every year, and then goes 30+ games without an error.
But yeah, that was bad. Really bad. We could put all the blame on Esco, but the only starting pitcher who gets over 1.5 runs per game so far is Lowe. Esco is one of several guys (Melky) playing very shitty.
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
Tonight’s lineup
1) Cabrera – LF
2) Prado – 2B
3) Chipper – 3B
4) McCann – C
5) Glaus – 1B
6) Heyward – RF
7) Escobar – SS
8) McLouth – CF
9) Hanson – P
strider15 - April 25, 2010
Chipper?
I thought he said he was going to be out a few days. Maybe this is a sign of a turnaround. Let’s hope so.
Bobby Cocks - April 25, 2010
I was thinking the same.
strider15 - April 25, 2010
I know he’s hit into some tough luck, but Glaus in the 5 spot is freaking killing us softly.
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
one time
kreese555 - April 25, 2010
Where did you find that?
Because I have a hard time believing that Bobby would continue to throw Cabrera into the leadoff spot.
SmithnCompany - April 25, 2010
Just tweeted from the Braves.
strider15 - April 25, 2010
Who else is he going to put there?
Diaz is struggling, McLouth is struggling. I don’t want to move Prado and risk putting him in a slump. I’m actually advocating trying Heyward, but I know that’s not going to happen.
Bobby Cocks - April 25, 2010
I wish we could fit Infante in the lineup instead of Cabrera. I know he did terrible the other day in the leadoff spot but I feel like he deserves more of a chance seeing as Melky/McLouth/Diaz have all gotten their licks.
strider15 - April 25, 2010
McLouth has been showing signs of improvement...
EricGreggWasPaidOff - April 25, 2010
missed that 3 run homer by 2 inches
the story of the season, so far
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
Chipper & Marteen are both playing?
Wow…
Hopefully neither worsens their injury…
Vance in Sacramento - April 25, 2010
What’s wrong with Prado?
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
I think a sore hammy. He was sitting out yesterday until Chipper got hurt and he had to come in.
Bobby Cocks - April 25, 2010
Bobby said it was really mild though. It didn’t sound bad at all.
Scott Coleman - April 25, 2010
/Prado promptly shreds his hamstring
DogDaysofSummer - April 25, 2010
...but grows wings and can now fly around the bases.
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
Sore hamstring.
strider15 - April 25, 2010
In a Hank Hill voice....
“Damn it Bobby. Cabrera won’t get it done. Prado bats first!!”
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
Apparently Chipper has heard Brian Jordan’s comments. I think that Prado’s fine. C’mon, Chipper, beat the crap out of those mets!
GO BRAVES!
HereComesBream - April 25, 2010 via mobile
Just got in
I feel like the classic parent who walks in on an underground party going on in their house and has no choice but to yell at their child.
And if that’s true then I’m having the feeling we won’t be so crappy tonight
GoBravesNY - April 25, 2010 via mobile
drinking and spending 4 hours in the sun today kinda got to me. I could definately use a Braves win tonight.
Scott Coleman - April 25, 2010
KJ just went yard again… whew, he’s off to a hot start.
strider15 - April 25, 2010
(cough)TP-free(cough)
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
Martin Prado was also projected to be a .275 hitter in the majors. I’m sure TP helped with that a bit.
I don’t know why everyone keeps calling for his head now. TP won’t be the hitting coach next season once Bobby retires.
Scott Coleman - April 25, 2010
Right. He’ll be the manager.
I’ve been calling for his head for years. Not just the past 15 games. It’s been confirmed our hitters go elsewhere for help!!!! What are we?!?! The freaking Royals?
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
I really think it’s gonna be Freddi Gonzalez. I have friends in the Miami-area and says there’s rumors all the time of Gonzalez and the front office not agreeing at all. And when a GM basically says “Make the playoffs with a $20MM dollar payroll or you’re fired” I gotta think he’s serious.
I know this won’t play a huge role in the possible hiring, but with most of our young talent in the minors being latino (JT, Vizcaino, Bethancourt, Salcedo, Delgado, etc.) the Braves might favor a hispanic manager to help bring those guys into the league. That’s all just speculation on my part though.
Scott Coleman - April 25, 2010
Dude, I would love for Freddi Gonzalez to be the manager in 2011. That would be my only choice. And I think the club would be better off for it.
However, I think it will be Pendleton.
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
+1000
EricGreggWasPaidOff - April 25, 2010
TP doesn’t bug me the way he does a lot of people. I liked him as a player, too. If he’s the Mgr next year, I’d say the Braves like a guy who has been around the team, knows the players and the organization. I’m not lobbying for him, but he’d be fine with me.
bighop - April 25, 2010
TP was a good player and a fine hitter
I just don’t think it translates into being a good all-around hitting coach. As for him being manager, I don’t really think he’ll get the job, but I could be wrong. I hope there is someone good available when Bobby’s gone. Like I said before I just don’t think TP’s a 3 dimensional coach, he doesn’t seem to help some players. You don’t coach everyone the same way, people have different body types and styles. I’m just going by my college days, our coach worked with different people different ways.
jimmontg - April 25, 2010
that
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
I picked
KJ up in fantasy and he has been on fire for me. I have Kelly Johnson and Martin Prado and they both have helped me win a lot.
AlabamaTitans2009 - April 25, 2010
Annnnd… Reynolds just hit a three run shot. Arizona up 5-3 over Phils.
strider15 - April 25, 2010
I should’ve gone to the game today instead of last night. The Sillies won and it was a pretty boring game to be honest.
Scott Coleman - April 25, 2010
Mets Lineup
Same as yesterday except Castillo is back in and of course Pelfrey in the 9 spot.
1) Angel Pagan – CF
2) Luis Castillo – 2B
3) Jose Reyes – SS
4) Jason Bay – LF
5) David Wright – 3B
6) Ike Davis – 1B
7) Jeff Francoeur – RF
8) Henry Blanco – C
9) Mike Pelfrey – P
strider15 - April 25, 2010
Supposedly not raining hard until after midnite
Maybe we’ll get the game in.
Thank God I don’t have to watch it on ESPN. lol. Just hearing Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum talking about the Metropolitans the whole time would be enough to make me sick.
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
Lucky you…
I’m betting at least 30 minutes dedicated to talking about Jose Reyes being moved to the 3 spot.
strider15 - April 25, 2010
not raining here
and it was ugly in NYC but not raining. My guess is we play baseball. Plus its Tweedle dumber and Tweedle dumbest
GoBravesNY - April 25, 2010
Count how many time Jon alludes to, “…….BelTRAN…” as well.
Actually, don’t do that. It leads to insanity.
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
I’m breaking into a cold sweat already.
strider15 - April 25, 2010
Watch the game on mute and itunes it. You won’t miss shit. And it may be more exciting. Music works really well with baseball on.
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
this also works for video games, btw
Doghnut - April 25, 2010
(sideways glance…..)
See, I have to watch the game. Just listening to it makes me fell like Little Orphan Annie, or something..
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
I meant turn on music while playing video games
But I’ve been known to put a game on the radio while playing a vid game too. I prefer the two tv setup tho.
Doghnut - April 25, 2010
were just going through...
…a rough patch right now. baseball mirrors life in that way. ups & downs. i am not worried one bit. we will get it going and it starts tonight. LETS GO BRAVES!
ledge2 - April 25, 2010
Nice post scott, try to restore some order. the only thing i feel should be done is give Hinske a few more starts. Other than that, everything will be ok.
JKowalek - April 25, 2010
this
he has been playing great, and he always seems pretty focused
dc_allday - April 25, 2010
Gotta feel for Javy...
He got hit pretty good by LA today:
3 2/3 IP, 5 ER
Up to 9.00 ERA for the season… and to think they were already calling for his head.
strider15 - April 25, 2010
Personally, I’m surprised the Yankees didn’t go for Lowe. Javy doesn’t take kindly to the damn Yankees.
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
You got that right,Javy doesn't like playing for them.
jimmontg - April 25, 2010
Dude can lay down a bunt too, like nobody’s business. lol
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
Lowe
is crap, he got most of his good stats from an extreme pitchers park
he had 3/45 left in his contract. he is hardly worth 3/15
he plays better as a GB pitcher in that stadium hell
a hay - April 25, 2010
You are articulate
Skyagusta - April 25, 2010
Oh, Lord……
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
When you lose 2 games to NIese and Maine
I say panic, those 2 would not make many AAA squards
a hay - April 25, 2010
You're an idiot
Syler - April 25, 2010
and you should probably just go back to AA. just saying
GoBravesNY - April 25, 2010
I'm not worried
JJ wouldn’t even make the AAA All-East team
GoBravesNY - April 25, 2010
I see what you did there...
:-p
EricGreggWasPaidOff - April 25, 2010
Niese is a decent pitcher. We were favored to lose that game to begin with. And it’s not the loss of yesterday’s game that stings. It’s the combination of losing the games prior to it, which we were favored to win, along with HOW we lost it.
EricGreggWasPaidOff - April 25, 2010
(nods head in agreement)
facepalm
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
Go Baez
he is fast becoming my favourite player
a hay - April 25, 2010
When I first heard the name Ike Davis, I initially thought about some douchebag that was beating Tina Turner, but she secretly couldn’t get enough of the “lovin”
Now I know dude is legit.
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
Bye bye, Delgado
Chief Noc-A-Homa - April 25, 2010
Tommy Hanson...
…will pitch his first career no hitter tonight. i say it before every one of his starts.
ledge2 - April 25, 2010
this is not okay
I love the Braves but come on. They are playing miserably.
bravesfantrumpeter - April 28, 2010
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