With the first two weeks of the season behind us the Braves have shone they can play, making use of a lot of tools, while not yet at full strength. The Braves have been resilience being able to plug in their bench. This can work in the short term but the long haul is different, for one thing, it weakens the bench which has happened before. What you do not want to happen is to have to play for extended periods using your number two and three guys. In today’s world, advance scouting is a lot easier with so many games being aired over TV. While nothing can beat eyes-on in-person reports when scouting a team and players, being able to review a pitcher or hitter to determine tendencies is far and away easier when you can repeatedly hit the rewind button.
But back to facts, the Braves have been able to follow the old school baseball philosophy of beating up on the weak teams while playing the good teams at least even. This week, the Braves beat the Marlins, the Houston Astros of the National League, although that is a bit unfair to the Astros, they at least have a plan. Anyway, they have beat the Marlins, the Cubs, have taken on the Nationals and swept them all.
Everyone’s favorite bet to play in this year’s World Series is the Nationals but the Braves are in control of their own destiny. Soon, Freddie Freeman will be back and Brian McCann will return with a mission. Maybe the Braves will not be able to afford BMac in the future but there will be a lot of deep pocket American League teams and, perhaps even some in the National League, who will be willing to make sure Brian’s grand children will never want for anything.
The key, however, is still “good pitching beats good hitting”. Bad pitching is revealed for what it is.
Friday night’s game was a classic for Braves fans. Down early and in danger of being blown out, catcher Gerald Laird walked out to the mound after Teheran gave up the fourth run in just the second inning and calmed the rookie with the words of wisdom to buckle down and keep the team in the game. We had seen this same type of melt down before with Mike Minor when he simply gave up after allowing early runs. The change was dramatic: no more hits, a few quick outs and Teheran showed everyone the promise he holds for the Braves organization.
While Detwiler mesmerized Atlanta hitters for seven innings, he was relieved be a heretofore reputed strong Washington bullpen. Suddenly the National’s pitchers couldn’t find the strike zone and allowed the Braves to tie the game by the ninth and with the Nats’ newly acquired closer Rafael Soriano unavailable after closing three straight games against the White Sox, Drew Storen gave up a two run homer to the Braves’ latest surprise hero Ramiro Pena in the tenth inning. Craig Kimbrel nailed down the save while facing the heart of the Washington batting order. The net result was a shock to the Washington Nationals and a boost to the mojo of the Braves.
On Saturday, Atlanta’s newest folk hero crushed a high hard one from Washington’s favorite hurler, Stephen Strasburg, and sent it deep into the left field bleachers. As yet, no one has quite figured out how he caught up with the
ball. While it was only a two run homer, Tim Hudson made it stand up and actually out pitched the young phenom. The Braves added an insurance run in the ninth and young Kimbrel slammed the door shut the second straight night.
It was not until Sunday that the Braves best pitching performance was turned in. Paul Maholm turned a gem, mixing an occasional fastball with an assortment of breaking pitches to keep the Washington hitters off balance. The same could not be said of Gio Gonzalas as the Braves hitters feasted on nearly every mistake he made. It is still early days but the Braves have sent a message they are the real Beast of the East this season.
There is lots of baseball yet to be played but one wonders how the return of Brando Beachy, Freddie Freeman and Brian McCann will affect this club.
I’m thinking it will make a strong club even stronger. Woo hoo.. I can hardly wait.
~Gil~
Terrific, Gil!!! I’m looking forward to enjoying this year! Hope renewed! 😆
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And, in case you missed it earlier, HAPPY BIRTHDAY, CHIEF!!
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Thanks CL and kudos again to the graphics department. It is hope to keep the old B&S relevant with fresh leads.
Yes, older and even more wise but also wise enough to know most fine wines will turn to vinegar without strict climate control and I feel more acrid every passing day… 🙂
Shall soon have to change my moniker to “Old Bitter Puss”
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You have always been a bitter puss, why add the old part 🙂 hahahaha
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Everyone wants to be a comic…
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Gil, Great lead!!!! 🙂 Sorry I missed you b-day, yesterday, Taxing taxes took a toll on me and my brain..
CL, I thought that was pretty funny about your taxes being done earlier this year! 😉
Also didn’t feel after the Boston terrorism, that talking about baseball last night would be appropriate ..
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to less important things as baseball….it’s going to be very interesting to see what happens in the coming weeks and months….no way the braves can stay this hot…but, as we know, we haven’t had everyone hot…or just a 2 for 5 day for JHey even…he sure picked the other night though…
But, lets say Mr Gattis continues to hit say, .300. I don’t know how it’s possible, but he already seems to be very good behind the plate, better at blocking than many a catcher.
Then McCann comes off the DL. Does he play? of course he plays…but, is it a showcase kind of thing? Show he’s healthy? McCann’s only 29. A .279 career hitter, but hasn’t hit higher that .270 the last 3 years. Only hit .230 last year, but still hit .20 HRs and drove in 67.
Brian may have to have a day off after each game. That shouldn’t be a problem. But, what if he doesn’t hit right away? Gets booed(hard to believe but fans do have a what have you done for me lately attitude at times) can’t throw as well as Gattis? Give him away? Nope.
But, How long before everyone can feel safe in the fact Gattis can handle catching and hitting in the bigs, and you could think of trading McCann(and lets be all cold and think of how much money could be saved trading him and then you use for a starter?) Or is this just a good few weeks for Gattis, and that’s all?
I tend to think since he seems to be such a quick study, both on the field and hitting, he can do it…
Funny what difference a few months can make. I was so mad last year, hearing basically, of course the braves can’t afford to keep their home grown hero, club is too cheap, risks involved in a long term contract, blah, blah, blah….Now I see what I am typing and feel like a heel. But, it may be what is best for Brian. I do think he can still catch(of course, we don’t know how well his arm will be, do we? There is a chance he may NOT be able to) 3–5 more years, perhaps more, but a AL team were he could catch 100-110 games, and DH 30-40, would be best for him…
And yes, I know….I am waaaaay out on a limb here…how long before Brian even plays a game? If Gattis is hitting .230 in may, there isn’t even an issue. But right now, he’s hitting .324 and has 4 HR’s(2nd on the club) 10 RBI’s(only behind J Up’s 11)
Who would have guessed that after the first 12 games of the year? Baseball, you can sum it up in one word…..you never know…
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a bit tired while writing that…oh well,, a few grammatical errors there…
hey, check this out, Tony Gwynn’s son is pretty funny! 😉
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You are so right Ber. One has to think that Brian’s real future is as a DH but he is still rated as a top five catcher in all baseball. Yes, his shoulder may be an issue but then again, it may be better than ever. As for stolen bases, can we subtract all those stolen against Tommy Hanson?
The thing about catchers is it is such a physically demanding position that .270 is .300 playing anywhere else. I’m thinking the Braves figure they have Evan Gattis in their back pocket right now. They can send him to Gwennett to stash him away if need be, not like they can’t move him.
As for Brian’s long term future, it is really up to him. With all the big cash being thrown about, I would be surprised to see him stay in the big A. Yankees would be my choice. Can DH, short porch to left…. What’s not to like. Besides, Jason will join him there soon enough…
I love the Evan Gattis story but I see him fading after the All-Star break. It is just what catchers do. Fortunately for the Braves, BMac will just be hitting his stride by then. I think it will all depend on who stays healthy.
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WTG, Miss Josie! 😆
Ber, loved the video clip which I shamelessly stole and posted on fb. 😛
from “Thanks Chipper” on fb:
“Braves pitchers have a 0.73 ERA in 74 innings with Gattis catching, with 40 hits (2 homers), 17 walks, 57 strikeouts, and 2 SBs in 3 att.”
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CL, no problem, I just stole it first, thats all! 😉
Amazing stats there!
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Let’s make sure it’s right BMac… Then we will all be glad to hail your return.
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Man, I sure hope he doesn’t rush it.
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Man O’ Man… It is something when you have a lineup that is in scoring position while standing at home plate…
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Ugly injury for Avilan, really a shame for him. Also goes to show how fast the injury bug can strike.
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“It is something when you have a lineup that is in scoring position while standing at home plate…” Line of the decade! 😆
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Okay folks, game is at noon today….
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Great line indeed Gil! Was at the game last night, saw (from a great distance) the injury, looked like a sniper got him! 😦 )
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Did i mention I was at the game last night??? 🙂 Man, what a night! Medlen was very good, there was perfect weather, and 5 braves homers! Never seen so many homers in a game, sweet!
Here are some pics if anyone is interested. Have some brief video to upload as well….
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.602318623120674.1073741825.100000276242825&type=1&l=ebe51a792f
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Thanks Ber, glad you had a win. thanks for the pics too.
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Well… I guess this means we won’t go 161-1. 😦
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Yes Raisins, unlike soccer and hockey, you cannot get a point if you don’t score….
I thought the strike zone was pretty wide yesterday, can”t complain though, it was at least that wide when Glavin and Maddux pitched too. When you have a wide zone like that, you just have to swing the bat and take it the other way.
Pittsburg tonight. whoopee…
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Yep, strike zone was Maddux wide… what can a hitter do like Uggla, when its 4 inches inside??? Oh well…
Pittsburgh has Starling Marte and Andrew McCutchen, at least they are exciting to watch…
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“J. Upton – The former D-Back is already more than halfway to his total of 17 homers from all of last season. B.J. Upton, Chris Johnson and Evan Gattis also went deep in Thursday’s victory. The Braves have hit a franchise record 29 home runs through their first 15 games.” – MLB
I love the Braves sitting at the top of the Major League with their .867. Looks real good on them!
Poor Miami. Somebody should just put them out of their misery. Out of 16 games, they’ve won 3. It has to be unbearable to be on their roster.
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Pittsburgh has Starling Marte and Andrew McCutchen, at least they are exciting to watch…
Yes they are. They have a pretty good roster. As for Marte last night, 3 K’s is the “Hat Trick”, 4 is the “Golden Sombrero”. What is 5? The “Platinum Porkpie”?
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What is 5? The “Platinum Porkpie”?
Raisins, that is a really good one, you need to submit that one to the guys in the booth… I will remember I read it here first….
That Gattis kid is a wonder, reminds me of the season the Diesel , John Riggins, had in Washington after he sat out (held out) a year from the Jets. A lot to be said for not being worn out…
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CL, it is true, the Marlins should be shipped to Portland, OR, or some other town that would support the team, and also get rid of that joke of an owner….
Have you ever seen anyone as hot as J Up? My memory isn’t that good, but I recalled Dale Murphy having an incredible April one year(1985 looked it up) 9 HR’s, 29 RBi’s .380 BA (4 HR’s 8 RBI’s in May, yet he hit .292) team also looked great in April, ended up 66 and 96. Don’t think that will happen to this team, sure hope not!
Wait, I know who is a hotter hitter(from a non power standpoint) Chris Johnson! .438! 7 multi hit games…we know he can’t be that hitter all season(but then, no one can) He will have to play everyday, right??? But, Juan Gone is no slouch either…seems to really be improving as a hitter. They both should be starters(Chris Johnson has already proved he is, yet teams like the Astros and Diamondbacks didn’t want him, weird)
V, I’m sure you will agree, this is why the NL has to implement the DH rule! 😆
IF Johnson stays even just fairly hot, wonder if we will see him at 2nd , once a week? Odd, he played ss in the minors a little, but never 2nd base. I know, I know, he isn’t a classic 2nd baseman, like Uggla, or Kelly Johnson! Now there is a guy who can play 2nd….
Feel like I’m reading an old Larry King “column” in U.S.A Today…Reed Johnson may be a victim of too many other good bench players…really like him, might be best to let Schafer go (via trade) since he isn’t a classic 4th outfielder just yet…
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“Platinum Porkpie”? 😆
Gil, it was interesting to see Gattis live the other night…was very aware he was taking too many pitches. the Anti-Frenchie. Seemed like he would take the first pitch every time. But, I love his eye, waiting for just the right pitch.
Bet you are right, he isn’t all that used to catching every day, and he’s a big feller…so he may need more rest….
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Great news out of Boston (File this under Stuff) That they killed one of the terrorist who set the bombs at the marathon. I have real mixed emotions over whether or not I want them to kill the other one or capture him alive so we can learn his motive. (connections)
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RE: Stuff…
Agreed, Gil. IMO, these guys are not just a couple of random guys with random motives. I truly believe they are/were just operatives. I do hope they can catch this dude alive, but I don’t see him letting that happen. It’s amazing what you’ll do when you think 72 virgins are waiting for you. Sadly, the lake of fire he’ll find is gonna be a bit of a let down.
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One would think the ones who would be most disappointed would be the 72 virgins….
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72 nuns?
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CL, LOL!
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Well, much to their relief, looks like another 72 virgins are the on hold…
Now baseball… OOPS!!!! Looks like Magic Wandy cast his spell over the Braves’ bats last night. That and Holbrook of the infamous infield fly having a chip on his shoulder. You can always tell when a guy has a guilty conscious.
Then again. Huddy did not exactly bring his “A” game last night either. A sinker which does not sink has all the inklings of a Mike Minor gopher special.
Okay, time to turn it around and win tonight behind Maholm.
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Yes, Huddy was bad, and Holbrook was worse. Still, it’s hard to win when you do not score; and it’s hard to score when you do not hit. Go get ’em tonight!!
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I’m thinking the Braves will be pretty happy to get both Freddi Free and BMac back in this line up. A lot of all or nothing swings right now… Time to get things back under control.
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Okay folks, think the Braves will ever win again?
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Possibly.
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I’m thinking the Braves will be pretty happy to get both Freddi Free and BMac back in this line up. A lot of all or nothing swings right now… Time to get things back under control.
Yep, both very patient “professional” hitters.
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I’m pretty sure the Braves will get snowed out Monday night. That’s okay, I think they need time to hit the reset button. Of course, that would be about the only thing they are hitting right now.
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Fresh powder on the hardpack. If the plankers will pop on the fatties, they can catch the zipper line and run a figure 11 straight to the fireplace.
Oh wait… their supposed to be playing baseball, not skiing. My bad…
😀
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You know folks, there was a reason certain cities were late to the game when it came to handing out major league franchises. I’m pretty sure weather was one of the determining factors. No so much any longer.
So, maybe they should give the schedulers a map to goo alone with the names of the teams so they could avoid playing in uncovered stadiums early in the season.
Oops,, that’s right, geography is another one of those raciest, bigoted subjects that should not be taught because it promotes things like having recognizable borders. SIGH!
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Ever get the feeling some sadist comes up with the schedules? Pittsburgh to Colorado? Not say, St Louis to Denver? Chicago even? Oh well…
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Good morning Braves fans, looks like J-Hey had an emergency appendectomy last night in Denver. Of course, I have never heard of someone having a routine one… Anyway, looks like a spot on the roster has opened up for Freddie Freeman, funny how these things work out.
I look for Johnson and Schafer to split time in right field in his absence. No reason to rush Heyward back. Put him on the 15 day DL and make sure his insides are healed as well as the outside.
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Might even let Gattis play a little left field but I would advise against it in Denver. Too much ground to cover in Coors field.
I look for Evan to get a turn as the DH in Detroit. BMac should be back soon too. I suspect he will be back next week-end.
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Freddie had already been recalled. Pitcher Carpenter only spent 1 day on the roster (as bullpen insurance) on Sunday in Pittsburgh before flying back to Atlanta and Gwinnett. Recalling Constanza seems likely, but I wonder if Terdo could get his first callup? I’d rather have a bomber like Terdo in the Mile High city than a flyer like George. Plus, Terdo is a SH. That can’t hurt.
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The problem I have with calling up “George” is he is really a one trick pony. No deep threat at all. Schafer is just as fast and he can drop a long ball on you once in a while. Coors Field plays pretty long with that huge outfield but in order to have them drop in, you have to first make contact.
I know someone came up with the idea that an out is an out but has anyone come up with hits plus errors (making contact) verses going down swinging?
I did not know they had turned Carpenter around so fast.
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Of course, he is a one trick pony who is already on the 40 man roster…
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Oh, I don’t think George would be called up to play, rather to take his place at the end of the bench. Schafer likely will, and should, get most of the playing time. Johnson could get a day or 2 as well. As I look at it, they could even platoon. But Schafer can help you out when he gets multiple AB’s. Off the bench, it’s a different animal. I still believe he’d have value to someone as an every day player. He just doesn’t profile out as a pinch hitter to me.
You are correct that George is a one-trick-pony. He is the prototypical AAAA player. I still wouldn’t mind giving Terdo a callup. I think he could give you a lift as a pinch hitter.
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According to Mr. O’B, it’s 23 degrees in Denver and feels like 15. “Let’s play two!”
🙄
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Back in the day, when I was young and the earth had just cooled, I played golf in sub freezing temperatures. Used an orange colored ball when playing in the snow… Anyway, I made a promise to myself afterwards that I would never play again when the temps were below 45 degrees including wind chill. When I struck the ball with a club, it reverberated up through my hands and arms. It felt like I was hitting a rock… a big rock…. I can just imagine what it will feel like when the players hit a ball today. I can’t imagine what it will feel like to throw one either.
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Braves have DL’d JHey and recalled Pastornicky. Unexpected…
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He’ll be a PH, with Shafer and RJ splitting RF duties. Not unexpected…
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Gattis in sleeves? Crikey it must BE cold… 😯
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Mr. O’B: “WeatherChannel says it’s 29 degrees here in Denver. Half-hour till first pitch, there are no more than 200 fans in ballpark.”
Wow…
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http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/highschool-prep-rally/washington-softball-senior-thrown-six-straight-no-hitters-151113007.html
Wow! Look at those numbers!
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And JUp can still knock one out in sub-freezing temps. Impressive indeed!
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2 run tater for Danny Boy!!! The bats are not as cold as the players!!!
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Thing about George, is he is usually a spark plug…for a few games…but a moot point right now…
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Just an observation… Mike badly needs to develop an “out” pitch. He really seems to have a tough time putting away hitters after getting two strikes on them. I guess that is why he was trying to master that two seamer during the spring.
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The Johnson brothers are having a good day at the plate too.
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Oh well, Even just missed a second homer by a foot or so.
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Wheeeee… That was fun
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I keep imagining the damage they could do if they were ALL hitting… 😯
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Unbelievable…
I just perused the transcript of yesterday’s Chat on MLBTR… 1 hour of live general baseball discussion from around the whole world on the inter-web….
Not 1 mention of MLB’s top team, the Atlanta Braves. No mention of the team, of a single individual player; no comparisons to any stat or total… nuthin’.
They have MLB’s best record at 15-5, the top hitter in Chris Johnson (.397), HR leader in Justin Upton (11), and Saves leader in Kimbrell (8). Yet, nuthin’ in an entire hour of chat…
All they do is go out and win, right?
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Okay folks, it is get-a-way day day in Denver. Game time around 3:10 our time.. Oh wait, it’s The 3:10 to Yuma…. or at least the 3:10 to Detroit. Sigh, one place is just about as desolate as the other.
It is sad in a way of how they try to revive a dying town with a sports stadium. SO, just how does a city profit from building a stadium from which they derive no revenue?
Build it and they will come? Not if they fear for their life..
So, Huddy goes for number 200 today. I say it depends on whether or not his teammates bring their bats or not.
Doesn’t Schafer look like the player the Braves had hoped he would be two years ago? His whole demeanor has changed. Nothing like failure to get a kid’s attention. A lot like Evan Gattis but without the journey to the mountain top….
Yes, I think there are a lot of layers on this year’s Braves team that feel they have something to prove.
On Teheran… A lot is being made on how he has finally arrived… I think it is really the old formula of what to expect out of your fifth starter… One good start out of every three… He is still a kid and he is still just finding his way. So many factor play into it. Not the least being the size of the strike zone on a particular night. Just ask Greg Maddux and Tom Glavin…
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Raisins, maybe it is because the Braves have no one on the auction block right now. Even their “B” team is strong. Think about this, Two of the Braves best players are still not in the line up… That shows real depth.
Of course a case might be made as to how good J-Hey really is. I’m thinking it might do him some good to be moved down in the order. Let him hit sixth of seventh. I think BJ is more comfortable in the 2 slot.
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The way CJ is hitting, I like him in the 2 hole. And BJ runs so well.. he needs to be leading off. His bat is coming around.
And talk about depth…
You insert Pena in the lineup, he produces. RJ? He produces. Heck, even Shafer produces. And where does Long Juan fit in? We haven’t even mentioned the impending return of BMac. Where do you put Gattis? He has to play, right? That depth is truly going to be the story of this season’s success. The roster is so deep that you can consistently give guy’s time off and not miss a beat.
As to the Gattis thing, BMac is the man. He’s earned it, and he hasn’t forgotten how to be one of the best hitting C’s around. The Braves will be visiting enough AL parks to get Gattis in at DH. Then have his designated pitcher to consistently catch, IMO. I would pick Maholm, by the way. And he’s proven he can give Freddie a blow here and there too. He’ll get time.
The odd man out is Gerald Laird. And Laird has caught and hit well. But this is the year of El Oso Blanco. And as we saw yesterday, you want to keep Shafer on this roster.
That is at least manageable. The problem is trying to fit all the talent in. That is the proverbial “good problem to have”, right? But whither Christian Bethancourt? Will he hit enough to fight for a position next year? Even if he does, has Gattis emerged as the Braves backstop for the next few years?
Stay tuned… Mac/Gattis/Bethancourt will be the offseason daily watch.
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2day’s lineup:
Pena, SS
BJ, CF
JUp, LF
Free, 1B
Oso, C
Francisco, 3B (I keep hearing Buddy the Elf here… “Fran-CIS-co…”)
Ugg, 2B
JSha, RF
Hudson, P
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FranCISco…
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I sure am glad that Huddy is in that lineup – so I know it’s the Braves. Anybody got a brochure that might have current players listed? 😀
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Well, what a revolting development that turned out to be…. A little lack of hustle in the outfield by Justin Upton if you ask me. I see why Gibson fell out of love with him….
I know, I’m selfish… I want the Braves to win ever game they are suppose to. That one should have been over in nine….
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I don’t know if it was lack of hustle; looked to me like he misjudged it and got turned around. Not good either way. The ball should have been caught. How about this: I don’t think Kimbrel threw one breaking ball. Was he mojo’d by the Mile High reputation? Huddy’s sinker certainly wasn’t breaking (never has there) like it typically does. I think the park may have gotten in Craig’s head. That 97 mph fastball is devastating when you counter it with a knee-buckling 89 mph slider. But major league hitters will hit 100 mph if they can sit on it.
I left after they tied it. Time caught up with me, so I didn’t catch the extra innings. But as I see it, there was plenty of blame to go around. That’s OK. They took 2 of 3 from the NL’s 2nd hottest team, and MLB’s top offense, in their house. We’ll take it and move on.
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Yes Raisins, you are right, it’s a team sport an they win as a team, lose as a team. Just an observation, like watching a couple of guys dog it when they thought they were out only to realize the ball was dropped. Always appears to cost an extra base.
Okay, on to Detroit. Truly one of America’s most depressed cities.
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http://bigstory.ap.org/article/former-braves-pitcher-rick-camp-dead-60
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Mac starts his rehab assignment tonight in at home with the Rome Braves, just a couple of hours north on I-75 from the Ted. Best estimate – assuming no setbacks or problems – is that he is set to return to the Braves on Monday when they return home to host the Nats.
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How can Mac be ready without a spring training, and I assume no live pitching(by real pitchers) by Monday?
I still haven’t seen the highlights of the extra inning game, but won’t let that stand in the way of me commenting…is it possible the thin air messed with BJ? Only 3rd game he ever played there…I assume…
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It was Justin who was turned around on the play Ber.
I would imagine there were lots of opportunities for BMac to face live pitching in extended spring training. Those guys only play four innings in spring training anyway. The real question will be if he is able to throw accurately (I’m sure he will be tested plenty) and if he has any pain when he swings and misses. No one ever complained of pain when hitting the ball well, except maybe one of those heavy sinkers in the cold..Makes your hands sting like all get out.
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Okay, an old fashion can of whoop a** on the Bravos tonight.
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CL, here ya go! 😉
Pitchers
NO. NAME POS BAT THW AGE HT WT BIRTH PLACE SALARY
43 Luis Avilan RP L L 23 6-2 165 Caracas, Venezuela $491,250
20 Luis Ayala RP R R 35 6-2 175 Los Mochis, Mexico $1,000,000
53 Cory Gearrin RP R R 27 6-3 200 Chattanooga, TN $491,250
15 Tim Hudson SP R R 37 6-1 170 Columbus, GA $9,000,000
46 Craig Kimbrel RP R R 24 5-11 205 Huntsville, AL $655,000
28 Paul Maholm SP L L 30 6-2 220 Greenwood, MS $6,500,000
54 Kris Medlen SP B R 27 5-10 190 Artesia, CA $2,600,000
36 Mike Minor SP R L 25 6-4 210 Chapel Hill, TN $505,000
34 Eric O’Flaherty RP L L 28 6-2 220 Walla Walla, WA $4,320,000
49 Julio Teheran SP R R 22 6-2 175 Cartagena, Colombia $490,000
38 Anthony Varvaro RP R R 28 6-0 195 Staten Island, NY $490,000
52 Jordan Walden RP R R 25 6-5 235 Fort Worth, TX $541,500
Catchers
NO. NAME POS BAT THW AGE HT WT BIRTH PLACE SALARY
24 Evan Gattis C R R 26 6-4 230 Dallas, TX $490,000
11 Gerald Laird C R R 33 6-1 225 Westminster, CA $1,500,000
Infielders
NO. NAME POS BAT THW AGE HT WT BIRTH PLACE SALARY
25 Juan Francisco 3B L R 25 6-2 245 Bonao, Dominican Republic $496,250
5 Freddie Freeman 1B L R 23 6-5 225 Fountain Valley, CA $560,000
23 Chris Johnson 3B R R 28 6-3 220 Naples, FL $2,287,500
1 Tyler Pastornicky SS R R 23 5-11 195 Bradenton, FL N/A
14 Ramiro Pena SS B R 27 5-11 185 Monterrey, Mexico $550,000
19 Andrelton Simmons SS R R 23 6-2 170 Mundo-Novo, Netherlands Antilles $491,250
26 Dan Uggla 2B R R 33 5-11 207 Louisville, KY $13,146,942
Outfielders
NO. NAME POS BAT THW AGE HT WT BIRTH PLACE SALARY
7 Reed Johnson RF R R 36 5-10 180 Riverside, CA $1,600,000
17 Jordan Schafer CF L L 26 6-1 200 Hammond, IN $512,500
2 B.J. Upton CF R R 28 6-3 185 Norfolk, VA $13,050,000
8 Justin Upton LF R R 25 6-2 205 Norfolk, VA $9,958,333
Disabled List
NO. NAME POS BAT THW AGE HT WT BIRTH PLACE SALARY
37 Brandon Beachy DL15 SP R R 26 6-3 215 Kokomo, IN $510,000
32 Blake DeWitt DL15 3B L R 27 5-11 195 Sikeston, MO N/A
22 Jason Heyward DL15 RF L L 23 6-5 240 Ridgewood, NJ $3,650,000
4 Paul Janish DL15 SS R R 30 6-2 200 Houston, TX $725,000
50 Cristhian Martinez DL15 RP R R 31 6-1 185 Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic $749,750
16 Brian McCann DL15 C L R 29 6-3 230 Athens, GA $12,000,000
39 Jonny Venters DL15 RP L L 28 6-3 195 Pikeville, KY $1,625,000
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😆 Thanks, Ber! If my printer was working, I’d print that out! 😆
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Well, it’s good it is still early. I will also be glad to see BMac return.
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Info courtesy of Mr. O’B: Mac was rained out in Rome today, where he was scheduled to catch 7 innings before moving on to Gwinnett.
Not sure if he’ll still move on to Gwinnett tomorrow or not, but I get the idea that there was no plan for him to go on the road with Rome.
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Well… time to come home after a completely forgettable road trip. And I hope it is completely forgettable for the Braves because it was miserable, and the last thing they need to do is bring its hangover into a 4 game series with the Nats. I don’t care if it is still April, every series with the Nats is important.
Now, Gattis. (Segue homage to The Scribe…). Even though he has cooled dramatically, and even though as John Kruk pointed out last night that teams have figured out that he’ll chase off-speed stuff away, it appears that Fredi is leaning toward keeping him on the roster when Mac – and JHey – return. Early bets are that Schafer will be traded. RJohnson is too valuable and Laird is too much under contract.
We’ll see soon enough, I suppose.
BTW- Pastornicky had one of the few hits last night. Uggla did not. Just sayin’…
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Mac UPDATE: He caught 9 innings in the 1st game of a DH today in Rome (0-4 at the plate) and will now move on to Gwinnett to continue his rehab assignment. Gwinnett is in Indianapolis today and tomorrow, off Wednesday, and opens an 8 game homestand Thursday. I can’t imagine that Brian would join them in Indy for 1 game…
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Hi folks, kind of an ugly turn of events after the Braves blew that game in the ninth against the Rockies. Pretty nasty looking pitching by the Bravos and I don’t mean that in a good way.
At least Medln may have discovered his flaw. perhaps he can fix Kimbrel while he is at it. As for the Braves’ bats. Things are a bit spotty, is that an understatement or what?
Maybe if the guys will just concentrate on making contact and stop going for distance, they will be okay. aif not, it is going to be a very interesting season but not in a fun way.
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Well… that’s a little longer than anticipated. 😯
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Per the Braves’ Kevin McAlpin…
Brandon Beachy has thrown two 5 minute live bullpen sessions and feels very good. McAlpin says Beachy feels like he can now “turn it on”. He is expecting to throw 3-4 more live bullpen sessions before being sent out on a rehab assignment. His target return time right now looks to be somewhere around early- to mid-June.
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I missed most of the Tigers series…lucky me 😕 seemed like the bravos were getting a bit squeezed last night,(just caught the last few innings) is that just me, or just one inning in particular?
The thing with Gattis, unlike Frenchy or Andruw, he really does seem to learn, and adjust. But, if pitches high and outside are called strikes, he isn’t going to hit much.
Still, IF he hits 6 HR’s a month, thats 36 HR’s…not likely, but still….
As for McCann, I can’t imagine there is any exercise that can build up arm strength , so I would think he needs to play a bit more, to make sure one, that his arm is sound and two build up his arm….and dead arm issues too.
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A pretty good all around game last night. Very entertaining. Teheran shows he has some grit and determination for the first 5 iinings. Walden shows why that trade w/ LAA was a big WIN for the Braves in the 6th. Braves get timely hitting and play effective ABC baseball in the 7th. EOF shows why he is one of the best in the 8th, and Kimbrel slams the door in the 9th. Just like we drew it up, right? 😀
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The one thing I hate about the Braves playing the Nationals is the fact I have to listen to the Washington feed. Of course the volume control can fix a lot of ills but I digress…
I am thinking Freddie Free’s nickname should be “Gumby”.. It is incredible the plays he makes by stretching at first. Best play of the game and maybe the season was the one where Simmons made a throw from the seat of his pants and Freddie stretched out to nip Espenosa by an eyelash. Really, that call could have gone either way but I am thinking even the first base umpire thought the Braves deserve the call after that play…
Schafer is really making a case for more playing time isn’t he?
Evan Gattis gets tired after three straight games behind the dish and it really affects his hitting. Just an observation. That said, Laird is no slouch behind the dish or in the batter’s box. He may not hit with the authority of a Gattis or McCann but he certainly is no Corky Miller.
BJ Upton is having a tough time catching up to a fastball right now. That is worrisome to me…
And on that note… Bryce Harper is worth whatever the Nationals had to pay him. That kid is impressive….
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Much better game last night! EOF would close for quite a few teams.
The Upton(s) story is nice, but I wonder if “we” would have been better off just…beating the Nats to the punch and getting Denard Span (I thought he was the one making the best catch ever perhaps, wrong, that Ben Revere of the Phils…the other one that would be nice to have…did y’all see it???? http://mlb.mlb.com/video/play.jsp?content_id=26305439&topic_id=&c_id=mlb&tcid=vpp_copy_26305439&v=3 )
I just hope at the end of the season, BJ is hitting .230 and when the playoff starts, he will hit like he did one year for the Rays, where he was unhittable…
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“I just hope at the end of the season, BJ is hitting .230 and when the playoff starts, he will hit like he did one year for the Rays, where he was unhittable…” What? “where he was unhittable”??? The pitchers couldn’t hit him??? Why?
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I agree with everybody! 😀
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Congrats Huddy!!!
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Call me selfish and spoiled but I like it when the Braves take all the suspense out of the game by scoring early and often.
Gio and the roids rumor…. One has to wonder with the difference in this year and last.
On Strasburg… Pitchers may come back after 12 months but they do not really pitch with their old effectiveness until after about 18 months.
Huddy looked as good as I have ever seen him tonight. I think his arm strength is back to the point where his pitches really bite. Several times his fastball touched 94mph tonight.
I wish Dan Uggla would take a page from Evan Gattis’s playbook and hit the ball the other way a little more often. He really sets himself up for failure by over swinging and pulling off the ball.
I am a little encouraged by B J making contact. Keep hitting it hard and eventually they will fall.
Chris Johnson is to Justin Upton as Brian McCann is to Jeff Francoure… The lesser may end up being the mostest.
Great piece by Carroll Rogers in the AJC about how Brian has viewed his return to the minors for his rehab. Lends credence to the adage about being good to folks on your way up as you never know when you will see them on the way down. That said, BMac has such a great attitude and baseball IQ… I hope he is able to stick around. I look forward to seeing his return too, I expect a big welcome to be expressed by the Atlanta fans in his first at-bat.
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I expect a big welcome to be expressed by the Atlanta fans in his first at-bat.
He is lobbying to return next Monday in Cincy. And why not? Who wouldn’t want to come back in time to hit in a Little League park?
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It is my opinion that if BMac and Evan were used in a platoon, they would both be better… Just my opinion… That and if Gattis could play first base, why couldn’t McCann?
Not that anyone needs to replace Gumby.. but everyone needs a breather now and then.
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There is a hitting philosophy these days that seems to have swept the major leagues. If you are able to hit home runs, batting averages be damned… Too many players are swinging for the fences (Dan Uggla, B J Upton , Juan Francisco, etal) and appear to have lost sight of the fact that often a single to the opposite field would be far more productive than a strike out… PS, I noticed a hitch in BJ’s swing last night, Uggla is simply missing pitches … Cut down on your swings dudes… the homers will come but not when you are swinging for the fences….
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The issue with Gattis will not be playing time… with Mac coming off a serious injury/surgery, he’ll need regular rest. My guess is that Gattis will catch Huddy every 5th time through the rotation. Plus, he’ll give Gumby the occasional blow, and JUp now and again as well. Don’t forget the away inter-league games that will necessitate using a DH.
No, the issue is not when he’ll play, it’s whose roster spot does he take? It won’t be Gerald Laird; you just signed him to a 2-year ML deal, and he has been invaluable to Teheran’s development. It won’t be Reed Johnson; like Laird, he has a new 2-year deal, and he’s your primary RHPH. It can’t be Schafer; he gets on base, he runs the bases like his hair’s on fire, and he’s the best defensive OF on the roster.
Now, as we have learned with JHey, injuries and other ailments come out of nowhere and affect the team. Really, no hard decision has to be made until JHey is ready to return later in May. Rev will simply return to AAA when Mac comes back next week. And not wishing injury on anyone, but these things often work themselves out. Could Fredi drop a pitcher from the ‘pen? If his starters could begin giving him 7 innings consistently, he might consider dropping Ayala or Varvaro.
There is no simple answer here. This is the proverbial “good problem” to have… much talent on a very deep bench. But it is going to be someone’s problem in a couple of weeks. Glad it isn’t mine.
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The latest on Mac, via the AJC’s Michael Cunningham:
“He’s scheduled to catch for Class-A Rome Wednesday before playing with Triple-A Gwinnett Thursday though Sunday. Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez said the team would evaluate McCann Sunday but that he’s open to McCann joining the Braves in Cincinnati Monday for the start of a 10-game trip.”
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One more tidbit:
“Gonzalez warned that it will take McCann some time to get back to form. He said McCann initially won’t take on his usual heavy workload behind the plate.”
This obviously addresses the 3 catchers on the roster question…
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Gumby??
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“What? “where he was unhittable”??? The pitchers couldn’t hit him??? Why?” CL, 😆 I think he was so unhittable since he was so skinny…
poor choice of words by me…he wasn’t a pitcher! 😕
here is what he did in the playoffs, back when he was “young”
http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/u/uptonbj01.shtml#batting_postseason::none
CL, gumby means, very flexible…that’s FF.
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Yes, CL, I could have dubbed Freddie Free Stretch Armstrong but Gumby just seems to fit, Freeman stretched out further than anyone I have ever seen play first base…
Yes, the Pastor will likely be the one in the barrel as far as who will be sent down next week. That’s assuming no one gets hurt between now and then.
Both Gattis and Laird both have shown they can play first base on occasion. Certainly not as well as Freddie or Christ but you have to make sure you give everyone enough rest as well as enough playing time and then there is always playing the hot hand.
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Okay,chalk Wednesday night’s game as loss and move on, Zimmermann pitched a heck of a game as did Maholm, just a well played game. Get em tomorrow when Meds goes to the mound.
It may have been a real loss for the Nats however, Harper looked like he pulled an oblique when he tried to hold up on a swing. When will this kids learn not to do that?
Whew… good thing B J has his brother on this team because otherwise Frank Wren would be sweating bullets. That is two big money, long term guys who were supposed to bring the right handed power in he and Uggla stinking up the joint. These guys are getting blown away with fastballs, never a good sign for a power hitter.
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I had not seen this story on Evan Gattis but it is one of the best I have read. All I can say is WOW.
http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/braves/2013/04/29/atlanta-braves-evan-gattis-improbable-path-to-majors/2122585/?morestories=obinsite
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Both Gattis and Laird both have shown they can play first base on occasion. Certainly not as well as Freddie or Christ
I’ve never seen Him play 1B, but I’ll bet he has never made an error… 😀
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SIGH… Always a typo… At least you know he is on my mind…:-)
Looking ahead to tonight’s match up
I feel pretty confident that Meds has worked out his issues, I am not overly worried about Harren, If it comes down to a battle of bullpens, we all know who has the edge in that fight.
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One has to wonder on how the Braves plan to get BJ Upton and Dan Uggla going. Both have big contract so I think it is realistic for the organization to have high expectations.
Last night on the Nationals telecast, they showed how Dan’s head was moving during his swing… Always a bad thing to be doing. Unless you are lucky and the pitcher hits your bat, guessing at pitches is a bad thing.
I don’t mind a guy with big power hitting into bad luck, A hitter has no control over where a defender is playing them. It is constantly missing pitches that is telling.
Right now, it is between Chris Johnson and Freedie Freeman as to who is the most consistent in making contact.
I really like Schafer’s approach at the plate right now. I cringed at his head first slide last night into first base and while the replay showed he was safe, I think he would have got the call if he had actually run through the bag.
I think Simmons needs to be a little more savvy in when to bunt. It all come with time but I think the coaches need to remind him of when it’s best to swing away.
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Fantastic story on Gattis. Wish he could talk to my brother!
Freddie Freeman = FF = Gumby. Got it! 😆
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Congratulations to Justin Upton and Evan Gattis for winning NL player of the month and rookie of the month awards respectively.
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Well, Josie just said “That was a wasted 3 hours”… Only seemed that long because we had to listen to Bob Carpenter…. Sigh..
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Okay folks, working on an idea for a new lead. That said, the Braves need to work on their defensive positioning at third base, Too many times they have been caught shallow.
While it is only a series split, I sure feel like the Braves snatched defeat from the jaws of victory,
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OUCH… That was one nasty looking ankle roll by Juan.
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Almost as nasty as that loss by the Braves last night… AUGGGHHHHH!
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Okay, good no game Saturday, I needed the day off….
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Huddy looks as good as I have seen him. Getting ground ball outs, that dipsy doodle 2 seamer…. going deep into games. He looks like the Huddy of yesteryear.
Nice game by the Bravos Sunday. Good to see Freddi Free heating up. Nice to see some contact with runners on too.
Looks like BMac will be behind the dish tonight, welcome back Brian.
Just an observation but I don’t think Mike Minor really likes pitching to Evan Gattis very much. Negative body language speaks volumes to me. Huddy on the other hand seems to enjoy bouncing balls off Gatty’s chest protector.
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It has been my opinion that the Braves need a “true ace” pitcher. They have 5 very good pitchers, but IMO they have no real “ace”. That said, there are no “aces” lined up to hit the FA market this year, and none rumored to be on the trading block.
I agree that Huddy looks very good, and he says he has 2-3 more good years left in him. Do you think he should be brought back after this season? Maybe on a 2 year deal?
Huddy considers the Braves “his” team regardless of his early success with Oakland. And he has proven that he’ll give the hometown discount. Any team with good young pitching still needs a successful veteran to anchor it.
The reality is that the season is still very young, and many parts of the dynamic can change between now and October. But I’ll be honest, I’d have to give strong consideration to working out an extension before he hits the FA market. He’ll be in demand…
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And to NO ONE’s surprise, Roy Halladay now says he’s been having discomfort in his shoulder.
Somebody please file that story under “Duh!”
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And in case anyone wondered, Mac was on the team charter to Cincy. He is activated and present. He will certainly be in the lineup tonight.
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I think with Huddy the real question will be how long of a contract he would want. Is he worth $15 million for 2 or 3 more years? We all know how the price of front line pitchers have escalated the past couple of years. I’m sure he would like to continue to pitch close to home.
I think it wold be pretty foolish to think he would sign for less than that. Too bad the Braves don’t have the kind of money the Dodgers do but the cost of living is a heck of a lot less in Atlanta.
I’m thinking Uggla is getting closer to the point where the Braves can afford to trade him. You don’t need all sluggers on your team. You do need a couple of Schafers and Pastornickys on your team too.
The real key to building a successful roster is having a McCann and Justin Upton type player and then plugging in guys around them.
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NEW LEAD IS UP!!
“Like”, Rate, SHARE
😀
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