Rowland's Office

In denial over Smoltzie?

I'd rather not consider the possibility that Number 29 has thrown his last pitch, though lately I find myself preparing for the inevitable. I guess I'm subconsciously following the five stages outlined in the Kubler-Ross model, as evidence mounts that Smoltzie has, at long last, given everything he can.

Still, the denial persists. Sure, he's 41 and his shoulder throbs every time he throws, but it's Smoltz we're talking about. He'll get past it. The anger stage isn't quite as applicable, though I'll be pissed if Smoltz's career is cut short by injury. He deserves to walk off the mound on his own terms.

I'm willing to make that bargain with the baseball gods -- one more summer is all I ask. I'd even be willing to give Chris Woodward a roster spot, if that's what it took. Looked like we had a deal; instead, the depression stage may be at hand:

"It could be anywhere between the [late May] timetable I discussed and a lot longer," said Smoltz, 41, who reported discomfort following his Thursday and Saturday bullpen sessions. He said he doesn't know yet whether he can pitch in games until the situation improves — or when it will improve. ...

"If, physically, I could make the adjustments, I'll be out there," he said, referring to changes in delivery or arm angle to allow him to pitch effectively without exacerbating the inflammation in his shoulder.

"If I can't make adjustments, no medicine or treatment is going to allow me to do it. I've still got time."

I get the feeling the depression stage will linger long after the inevitable becomes official.

We could use the insight of an Orioles fan here, because Smoltz is to Atlanta what Cal Ripken Jr. was to Baltimore. When you consider he played alongside everyone from Murphy to Maddux, with Chipper and Glavine, it's all the more impressive that Smoltzie is this organization's unquestioned heart and soul. He'll be missed more than any of his teammates -- even more than Bobby.

I'm glad I don't have to accept anything yet, because that final stage will be a struggle. No doubt I'll have plenty of company.

--CB

Prepare to swoon

After reading this profile of Braves first-round pick Jason Heyward, I'm pretty certain I'll have a new favorite player come 2011, if not before.

Rome manager Randy Ingle said the right fielder runs out every ball hard, backs up bases, and doesn't mind taking on the outfield wall. He's not happy if he gets four hits and the team loses. He's respectful of his coaches. Asked if there's something Heyward needs to improve, Ingle paused three seconds before saying "No, he's on the right track."

He's another local kid, which is cool, but this quote from his dad really won me over:

It sounds like the bigger thrill was working out with Braves players at Turner Field this winter and playing in his first big-league spring-training game. He went 0-for-2 with a strikeout.

"He said 'Dad I had so much fun, I had stupid fun,'?" Eugene Heyward said. "It should be against the law. I said 'Hey, man, that's what I want to hear.'"

Me too. There are plenty of Braves I like. The ones I hold dear are those who truly love the game, and appreciate it accordingly. We revere Smoltzie 'cause he cares -- no one would ever question his desire or will. Same with Maddux. Glavine, too, though he was unfairly tarnished by his role with the Player's Union. He was too professional, an admittedly odd critique.

Chipper is the greatest Atlanta Brave everyday player ever (Hank is the greatest Milwaukee Brave -- we unfortunately saw just the tail end of his his prime), but not my favorite. You may recall him grousing about retirement a few years back. In one article he talked about how it wasn't always fun going to the ballpark. That left me cold.

He's grown up a lot since, so all is forgiven, though I'd have been more prone to excuse a coke binge (see Nixon: Otis) than someone who viewed the game as a chore (see Sheffield, Gary and Drew, J.D.). It's a chore to root for mercenaries. Thankfully, this Braves team is refreshingly devoid of such characters, though Tex seems to have unfortunate aspirations.

No such worries with Heyward, as long as he remains true to the 19-year-old kid I just read about. By the way, the young right fielder is hitting .325 with four homers and eight steals. It goes without saying that he hasn't missed a game.

--CB

The Charlie Morton Watch

Blind optimism spurred my interest in young Mr. Morton, but I don't think anyone in the Braves organization expected him to emerge this rapidly.

The hard-throwing righty hurled another gem Tuesday night, scattering five hits in seven innings, striking out seven while walking only two.

Morton is 2-0 for the season, with a 1.69 ERA. Most telling: he's allowed just 30 hits (zero homers) and 15 walks in 48 IP. That's a .94 WHIP. His strikeout totals are also on the rise; Morton averages 7.3 per 9 IP.

Don't look back, Chuckie, Charlie Morton's gaining on you, fast.

--CB

*Meanwhile, another young Braves hurler (and Atlanta native) fell one strike short of a complete game no-hitter for Myrtle Beach Tuesday night. Deunte Heath, 22, throws in the upper-90s but hasn't really put it together until now (5-1-1.84 ERA). That's still a run higher than Tommy Hanson's ERA. Speaking of Myrtle Beach pitchers, former College World Series star Kevin Gunderson has been dominant closing games. The Oregon State alum has 10 saves and a 1.04 ERA for the Pelicans.

Smoltz back in 10 days?

He thinks so. Smoltzie expects to begin a brief minor-league rehab assignment next week and sounds confident that his shoulder will hold up better than Blaine Boyer in a save situation.

As for the rotation, let's assume Smoltzie, Soriano and Gonzo return in top form. Would that make BMF expendable? If he could help fetch a solid starter, I'd explore it. Plenty of contenders -- Cleveland, Milwaukee, Arizona, the Cubs -- have bullpen issues, and the Indians, for one, have an abundance of talented young starters, including Triple-A standouts Jeremy Sowers and Aaron Laffey.

--CB

Two names you never want to see in the same sentence

Unfortunately, they were reacquainted during No. 10's last AB Wednesday.

Office debate

The Maddux-to-Atlanta speculation is growing, and it makes too much sense not to happen, assuming:

1.) The Padres don't ask for too much and;

2.) The Braves don't implode over the next few weeks.

CD isn't opposed, but doesn't view Maddux as a considerable upgrade over Chuckie or Jo-Jo. I haven't given up on Reyes -- there were positives in his start last night -- but clearly he's not going to develop as rapidly as Kid Dyn-O-Mite. From either lefty, I've come to expect 5 to 6 IP/4 to 5 RunsAlllowed.

Maddux, circa 2008: 6 to 7 IP, 3 to 4 RA (on average).

Mad Dog pitched 198 innings last year, and is on a similar pace in '08: 50 IP through the season's first quarter. Chuckie or Jo-Jo won't come close to that, and Maddux will be out there every fifth day, like always.

No one's a better competitor, so while it may not make a major difference in his performance, you know he's not inclined to be shown up by Glavine or Smoltzie.

And there's this: He's the greatest pitcher of his generation. Hell, I wish the '82 Braves could've figured out a way to activate Bob Gibson, a move that was seriously discussed by the Braves hierarchy.

You could argue those Braves had more rotation depth, regardless of what we were told about this year's pitching reserves.

So what do you think? Would Maddux be a difference-maker for this year's Braves, or would he amount to little more than a nostalgic salve?

--CB

What might be

It's dispiriting as hell to keep losing road games, hitting into double plays, leaving runners all over the place.

But in a couple of weeks, this team could become really intriguing, with a set of tools no Braves team has had. If -- and it's an if for obvious reasons -- Smoltz, Soriano and Gonzalez all return and stay healthy, this team could have the best bullpen since the 1990 Nasty Boys Reds. That team won a World Series mainly on the strength of its three shut-down closers. 

The rotation that leads the league in ERA could become a bit more of an issue over the long haul, with the last two spots filled by some combination of Jo-Jo, Chucky, Bennett and perhaps eventually Charlie Morton or someone else. Still, three top-shelf relievers would truly make most games a six-inning contest. You'd have to like our chances most nights.

On the other hand, none of the three relievers would pitch on consecutive days too often, and would probably almost never pitch three games in a row. So Bobby would have to craft a strategy for using them. That'd be a great problem to have.

If the Braves can start generating some semblance of consistent offense and stay close in the division for the next two or three weeks, it will be fascinating to see what happens if that bullpen coalesces.

--CD

KJ drops to 7th

O'brien notes on his blog that Bobby has moved Yesco to the leadoff spot, dropped KJ to 7th and moved Kotsay to the 2 hole.

I like it. Here's the lineup for tonight:

1. Escobar, 2. Kotsay, 3. Chipper, 4. McCann, 5. Norton, 6. Francoeur, 7. Kelly, 8. Blanco, 9. Reyes.

--CD

Looking to Jo-Jo for some mojo

It's hard to argue that any game in May is "big." Tonight's series opener at the band box in Philly is by no means anything approaching a must-win. Yet it is significant, especially for the starting pitcher, Jo-Jo Reyes.

For himself, a good start would help solidify his tenuous place in the rotation. It would be not just a good start against a good team, obviously a plus for Jo-Jo. It will also be a chance to nurture the germ of momentum from yesterday's night cap, a chance to win consecutive road games for just the second time this season. A win tonight, of course, gives the club a good shot at winning the series against a contender at their yard.

Taking two or sweeping -- not to get ahead of myself, but just saying -- in corporate name park in Philly would be the ideal way to begin this 14-game gauntlet that next brings the A's, Mets and Diamondbacks to Hank Aaron Drive. There's the good news: those 11 games are at home.

Bad news is that Jo-Jo and Chucky will start two of the games against the Phillies. We face Kendrick tonight and Glavine duels Myers tomorrow night. Neither Kendrick nor Myers has pitched particularly well this season, so there's no huge pitching advantage tonight and the Braves probably get the edge in Game. 2 as Tommy's been throwing well. However, on Thursday the matchup tilts decidedly against us in James vs. Hamels. That is yet another reason a win tonight would be pivotal.

--CD

   

How in the hell?

Did anyone listen to or watch today's first game? How the hell can you leave 15 runners on base? How do you get shut out when you get eight hits, six walks and the opponent makes four errors?

Have the Braves executed a sacrifice bunt this year? Would someone give Kelly Johnson a swift kick in the ass? If he gets a bunt down Friday night, we probably win that game. And give Frenchy one while you're at it.

How the hell can you go 1-5 vs. the Pirates? And 3-5 against the Kastens?

This team needs a jolt, and soon. With the Phillies, As, Mets and D'backs looming, it could get grim if the team doesn't start getting an occasional clutch hit. It sure wouldn't hurt if Mr. been-waiting-on-the-huge-free-agent-contract-all-his-life got a big hit or two.

--CD

Smoltzie on the mend; Hampton seriously hurt in toenail-clipping accident

I forgot -- we don't talk about Hampton anymore. Not so with Smoltzie, who is optimistic after throwing Sunday without pain.

Smoltz, who turns 42 on Thursday, said throwing off the mound, and with the arm extension required to keep pitches down in the strike zone, were two bigger tests than the easy, chest-high throws he made Sunday.

But he's confident about returning to the active roster this month.

"I had that in mind since I went on the DL," Smoltz said, "and I still think that's going to come true."

I believe him. More good news: BMF is inching closer towards a return. DOB speculates the Braves might use both in the closer's role, though don't discount Gonzo.

--CB

The Charlie Morton Watch

Though I haven't seen him pitch, I'm going to buy into the emergence of Charlie Morton, who continues to press for a spot in the rotation. Another couple of bad outings from Jo-Jo or Chuckie and I think we'll see him get the call from Richmond.

Charlie's numbers: 1-0, 1.76 ERA, 41 IP, 25 HA, 13 BB, 32 K's, .175 BAA, .93 WHIP

Who knows -- maybe he could get a win against the Pirates.

--CB

The foundation of a playoff season

Today's win was unmerited, but impressive nonetheless, allowing the Braves to end the homestand likely tied in the standings with Philly (trailing Arizona 8-3 in the 6th) and a half-game ahead of the Mets.

Without three of their best pitchers, and with little production from the $200 Million Dollar Man, the Braves are staying comfortably afloat, posting their first six-game winning streak since July 2006. Chipper, the Kid and Huddy are due the primary credit, but they've had plenty of help, much of it unexpected.

*We expected much of Yesco, and he's failed to disappoint. The steady sophomore checks in at .333, and his lead-off bunt single to start the ninth was something no one else on this team, save for Kotsay and maybe Blanco, is likely to pull off, or even try. He's been above average in every aspect of the game, making only three errors, running the bases effectively and hitting the ball to all fields. He rarely makes mistakes.

Fitting that Yesco replaced Edgar, because he plays the game like a young Renteria. CD makes a good observation: If forced to choose, the Braves would probably lock-up Yesco long-term over Francoeur. Easy call, at this point. Not that we've soured on the Parkview grad, but he's yet to make the strides most predicted.

*Kotsay is playing just as he did before his back injury, and he's a notorious slow starter. With Jordan Schafer's troubles, the Braves might want to try to lock him up for a couple of years. He's hitting .137 points higher than Andruw after today's win.

*Despite little experience, the bullpen has been stout, as has Bobby's management of it. Where would the Yanks be minus Rivera and Chamberlain? Or the Red Sox without Okijama and Papelbon? BMF and Moylan aren't that good, but their roles are the same.

Bobby's had no choice but to overwork the 'pen, as the starters outside of Huddy and JJ haven't pitched enough innings. One reliever whose contributions have been overlooked: Royce Ring, who has yet to allow an inherited runner to score. Never mind his 6.75 ERA; Ring is doing his job, and doing it well.

*Suddenly, the bench looks pretty decent. Greg Norton has 20 homers and a .246 lifetime average as a pinch hitter, and he's already paid dividends. Every team needs an Omar Infante, a veteran who knows his role and performs it ably. And don't forget Blanco/Diaz.

*One thing this team will never develop: speed. That Matty D. leads the team in steals with four says it all.

*Good thing the Braves are winning now. After they leave Pittsburgh on Sunday, the local nine travels to Philly for three games, then back home for three against the overachieving A's (3.13 team ERA) and four each vs. the Mets and D'backs. The good news: Smoltzie says his shoulder is feeling better and he's anticipating a return to the team by month's end, perhaps in time for the Mets series, though that seems unlikely.

--CB

*Unrelated, but has anyone else noticed how impossible they've made it to win those jackpot innings on the radio? If the Braves had scored seven in the 7th, so and so would've won $1,000, but what are the odds of that? At least you've got a fighting chance with the Delta Double Play Inning. Hope I didn't steal any of Doyle's thunder with that last musing.

Local columnist ignores baseball

That's not exactly a revelation, of course.

But it struck me recently that the local organ's most prominent sports columnist, Mark Bradley, has written exactly zero columns about the Braves since the season started. On the organ's Braves page, his latest contribution is from March 21.

Just figured that was worth noting. Some of their other guys have occasionally weighed in on the club.

On a far more interesting note, the home team has a gauntlet waiting after leaving the pretty little park by the river in Steel Town: 3 at Philly, 3 at home against Oakland, then four each vs. the Mets and D'backs. If we can hold our own, we'll head into the summer feeling good. It's too bad Smoltz probably won't be back for that stretch.

Wonderful homestand, as CB will detail soon. Wonderful play by Yesco leading off the 9th. It's too early now, but at some point, the team must lock this guy up long term. He is a star. He'll be the cornestone every day player once Chipper retires.   

--CD

Feeling a little more "Chipper"

Figured I'd start things with a little joke for y'all. What do you call that, a pun?

Aaaaaaanyhoo. I ain't got too long here. Me and Brenda are going to get Oak Ridge Boys tickets in a few minutes. I'm gonna make Brenda stand in line while I sit in the truck and listen to the ball game. Heh, heh. She still owes me for driving her around while her license was pulled for the DUI.

Speaking of the ball game, them Braves been doing OK lately. I tell you what, that Jurrgenson boy's been gettin 'er done! Damn, I'm on a roll. He can damn sure pitch, that one. If we can't find a closer, maybe Bobby can let him do it between his starts. Just a thought.

Hell's bells. Teshow-me-the-money over at first just booted a ball on the first play of the game. Team's been going good, but he still ain't showed me much. If he wants to go take the damn yankee dollars, I say, brother, Delta's ready when you are.

Nonstop, just like Chipper's hitting. That boy is the natural. It's rubbing off on Kotsman lately, too. Way old Andruw's going, I'm glad we got this guy.

Ole Hudson's been slinging it pretty good. Dadgummit, the Padrees just scored two runs. I ain't sure about this Reyes.

Where's Don Sutton? I miss him in the booth. I think ole Skip is losing it, bless his heart.

I think I told y'all my boy Justin got in some trouble at school. Well, they told us he ought to see some kinda kids head shrinker, and I said, no sir. Ain't no boy of mine doing that kinda loony crap. What you think we are, limp wristed New Yorkers? Some kinda Woddy Alfred? Anyhow, Brenda's home schooling him for now. They do alright with the English and social studes, but ain't neither of them a math whiz.   

I'm not either, but why in the hell is Porky Miller playing? Why is he even on the team? I saw him play a game this year and he let two balls get by him. He hits like Rick Camp. I used to know Rick Camp over around Carrollton. He was a wild dude in his day, now. Back on the subject of Porky Miller -- you might be a crappy catcher if you can't hit and can't catch. That's another good one.

Well, that's about it.

Hang on, sexy!

Brenda's calling me to get them tickets. She's always had the hots for William Lee Golden. Later, dudes. Y'all keep it between the ditches.

-- Duane from Forest Park

 

Kid Dyn-O-mite (TM)

Our nickname for Jair could be catching on (thanks to JGraham for the tip). I'm happy to see it, but Rowland -- and Jimmie Walker -- demand the proper credit.

--CB

Will Chuckie yield to Charlie?

It appears Chuckie will get the nod Saturday as the Braves attempt to cobble together a rotation missing its ace. The third-year southpaw is coming off a strong outing (7 IP, 6 H, 1 ER) Tuesday for the R-Braves, so for now it's his job to lose.

But if Chuckie and/or Jo-Jo fail to stick, Charlie Morton appears poised for an audition.

This time last year, the hard-throwing righty was struggling to remain in Mississippi's rotation. His prospect status was already in question after posting ERAs of 4.82, 5.20 and 5.40 in his first three seasons. Morton's numbers steadily improved through the second half last year, however, and he was dominant in the Arizona Fall League.

More of the same thus far at Richmond where, in 33-2/3 IP, the former third-round draft pick has allowed only 20 hits, striking out 26. His control has been spotty(13 BB), but Morton and his 97-MPH fastball might make it to Atlanta sooner than anyone expected.

--CB

BMF A-OK

Finally, a pleasant surprise on the injury front: No tears, no structural damage in Soriano's right elbow.

This time next month, the Braves may have a three-headed monster closing out games: BMF, Smoltzie and Gonzo. The middle innings would also be in good hands, with Boyer, Acosta, Ohman, Bennett, Ring and Campillo fighting over the scraps, giving the Braves actual depth in at least one part of their pitching staff, not to mention the best bullpen in either league.

--CB

Without him, Kid Dyn-O-mite would be in Detroit

And wouldn't Dave Dombrowski like to have that one back. Edgar's been fine but, according to a Tigers beat writer interviewed on XM the other day, Detroit is unlikely to pick up Renteria's option next season. If I were their GM, I'd stop trading young pitching prospects to the Braves (see: Smoltz, John).

Of course Frank Wren could've never gotten Jair if not for Andy Marte, once the home team's top prospect and now a candidate to be designated for assignment. Marte -- traded by JS for Renteria -- has no options remaining, and contenders aren't typically patient with .111 hitters.

I'm reminded of Melvin Nieves, another highly regarded Braves prospect dealt in exchange for an All-Star contributor. Marte has already yielded one; Edgar played in the Midsummer Classic last year, and Jair looks poised to one day do the same (perhaps even this season). And don't forget Gorkys Hernandez.

Not a bad bounty for a back-up third basemen with a career .194 BA.

--CB

10 years, $200 mil

That, writes Jon Heyman, is expected to be the starting price for Tex. Ten years is ridiculous -- what if the Braves had inked Andruw to such a deal after his breakthrough 2005 campaign? He was the same age then as Tex will be after this season.

Not to say Tex will be hitting .162 in 2011, but he's barely above .250 now, with little power. I'm sure he'll snap out of it, but you never know. What if he didn't? No one would've predicted Andruw's struggles.

I hope the Braves can keep Tex, but even if they had the money, I'd be opposed to a deal even approaching the years he's seeking. To be honest, I'm not crazy about his motivation.

One baseball executive who knows Teixeira well predicted, "No chance he stays. He's waited his whole life for this moment.''

Sounds like Tex has been brainwashed by Boras. I'd rather hear: "He's waited his whole life to play for a winner. He knows he'll get paid handsomely, but he's more interested in playing for a good team, in a city he likes, for a manager he respects."

Heyman places Atlanta's odds to re-sign Tex at 15-to-1, behind both New York teams, Seattle and Baltimore. I hope the moment when he signs that new deal is everything he dreamed it would be.

--CB

JJ the best since .....

I'm staining the deck last night, listening to Skip and Chip's call. Is there anything better than grilling, enjoying a cold one, staining a deck, or doing most anything outside on a splendind spring evening and listening to the Bravos? Not many things.

Anyway, when JJ quickly allowed a run in the first, I'm thinking, OK, he's a rookie pitcher. He's due to get knocked around. After all, he hasn't produced a dud in six starts.

Still hasn't.

Kid Dy-no-mite righted himself and authored yet another crisp session on the hill for the home nine. JJ is quickly establishing himself as the best young Braves moundsman to emerge since Kevin Millwood debuted a decade ago with a 17-8, 4.08 season. Jurrjens looks almost certain to be, along with Millie, one of the two best kid pitchers we've had since the golden era when Glavine, Smoltz and Avery all bagan mastering their craft at Ole Blue.

It's early. But I won't be at all surprised if JJ surpasses Millwood's work for our side. To be sure, the laconic North Carolinian was a fine Brave. He ranks 27th on the franchise win list, at 75-46 with a 3.73 ERA as a Brave. Still, after his rookie season, Kevin was a tad erratic. But he fashioned two more great years: 18-7, 2.68, .996 WHIP in 228 innings in 1999 and 18-8, 3.24 in 217 IP in 2002. He pitched one of the best games in Atlanta postseason history in a complete game, one-hitter against Houston in the '99 LDS, after the Braves had lost Game 1. That helped fuel the club's last World Series run.

Since then, the best young hurling we've seen was from guys who proved to be mediocrities, at best. No young Brave has won more than 12 games since Millwood's '98 season. Horacio and Damion Moss both tallied a dozen wins, the southpaw Aussie in 2002 and Horacio the following year. Neither did much more for the Braves -- though they fetched good returns in trades -- and neither is even in the bigs today.

Other than Moss and Ramirez, Jason Marquis showed early promise, but finally showed himself to be, one, an imbecile by blasting Leo and Bobby, and two, not all that good with the Cardinals and Cubs. After a hopeful beginning, Davies was a disaster. Chucky is Chucky.

And JJ is JJ. The kid has been superb.  In seven starts, he's allowed more than 3 earned runs once, and that was in a solid seven innings in frigid Colorado. Only in one other game did he give up 3 earned, and that was his gutty performance at Shea, when he rebounded from a near meltdown to earn a big win.

JJ is 4-2, with a sub-3 ERA, and a WHIP of 1.08. He unleashes 91-94 mph comets that swoop, Madduxian, over the corners. He's got a decent changeup, delivers the ball with a signature flair and has the mound presence of a 10-year veteran. He says all the right things and appears to have a truly perfect attitude.

And, oh yeah, he's been the most consistent starter on the team, given Smoltzie's health problems. My only concern with JJ for now is that he's never thrown more than about 150 innings in a season. So let's cross fingers that he does not tire come August.

JJ is TNT.

--CD   

 

BMF to have MRI

When it comes to injured Braves, expect the worst. As the soreness in BMF's elbow lingered, I assumed a lengthy stay on the DL, if not season-ending surgery, loomed. Looks like it'll be one or the other, as Soriano has an appointment Wednesday with a Braves team doctor.

Oh yeah, and Gonzo had a "minor setback" this week in Florida. Braves officials say not to worry, but that's what they said about BMF.

Once again, the burden will fall on Smoltz. He can handle it, but can his shoulder?

--CB

Attempting to explain the arrogance of Mets fans

The Mets have won one more World Series than the Atlanta Braves (if not for Bill Buckner and Lonnie Smith, that number would be reversed), but otherwise Braves fans have more reason to crow. Even though the Mets started play four years before the Braves moved South, they trail in:

Playoff appearances

Braves 16
Mets 7

Pennants

Braves 5
Mets 4

Hall of Famers (not counting all who played for the Mets or Braves, but players inducted because of their work with either franchise)

Braves 7 (Including Glavine, Maddux, Smoltz and Bobby, all certain inductees, joining the Hammer, Eddie Mathews and Knucksie)

Mets 2 (A spot is already reserved for Pedro in Cooperstown, but he'll go in a BoSox. No other current Met qualifies -- not yet, anyway)

--CB

It was a very good year

(via Buster Olney's members-only column, by way of Boog Sciambi)

Since May 5, 2007, Chipper Jones is hitting .362, which leads Major League Baseball, and and he's hitting .400/.474/.733 from the left side over that span.

Not a good time for ex-Brave sluggers

You know about Andruw, and you probably knew about Adam LaRoche (.202), but did you know Gary Sheffield is third from the bottom in batting average among AL players? Mr. .100 (his batting average as a Brave in the playoffs -- three singles in 30 ABs) checks in with a slugging percentage of .305, though I'm sure it's not his fault.

Andruw, meanwhile, deserves our pity. DOB compiled some depressing stats.

Overall: .158, (16-for-101), six extra-base hits (one homer), four RBI, 34 strikeouts , a .267 OBP and a .248 slugging percentage (.515 OPS).

RISP: .040, 1-for-25

Runners on base: .083, 4-for-48

Vs. RHP: .138, O RBI, 25 K's

Since homering off Chuckie on April 19: .130, 6-for-46, 1 RBI, 16 K's

--CB

Who am I?

I played with the two greatest left handers in Braves franchise history, Warren Spahn and Tom Glavine. Maybe this isn't as hard as I think, but it is right fascinating. Please answer without looking it up.

--CD

Maybe another old timer will wear the script A again

Most of y'all might have seen this, but I missed it.

Julio, old Julio, has hung up his spikes as a player. Here's hoping he returns to A town as a coach one day. I might have this wrong, but I'm pretty sure Julio's last major league at-bat was in a Braves uniform. Appropriately enough, he singled to right field in the 7th inning of a 12-4 win over Houston at Turner Field, on July 31, 2007.

As a Brave, Julio hit .291 in 1,218 at-bats.

Fare the well, Old Man. We hope to see you again soon.

* As Erik points out in his comment below, the Old Man's last big league AB was in a Braves win at Florida on Sept. 17. Juley stroked an RBI single to right.

While we're at it, another note about Julio. Baseball-Reference lists 659 teammates, from Ivan DeJesus and Gorman Thomas to Yesco, including 189 active players and seven Hall of Famers. Compare that to another guy who played seemingly forever, Pete Rose. He only had 370 teammates.

--CD

A modest proposal

The best ideas come to you in the shower, though this one was rather obvious. The Bravos need another starter, so why not one with 349 wins?

Lo and behold a story just posted online by Carroll Rogers ponders that very possibility, with Chipper offering his enthusiastic endorsement:

"If we can get Doggie in a Braves uniform again, it'd be perfect," Jones said. "You love to fantasize and speculate, if you could get the three of them back together in the same rotation, see how they would fare in this day. I'm sure they would hold their own. Probably not as dominant as they once were, but they'd battle and be very competitive, keep you in the game."

Keep in mind that the Padres have the worst record in the NL and play in the same division as the league's best team, hence Mad Dog's potential availability. He's making $10 million this year, though we've been told the Braves have some money to spend. Besides, the excitement -- and on-field results -- generated by his return would cover most of the tab.

Maddux has a no-trade clause, and likes being close to his Las Vegas home, but does anyone think he'd block a reunion with Bobby, Glavine and Smoltz? Though he's not what he once was, The Best Pitcher of His Generation remains plenty competent. If Smoltzie, Gonzo and BMF are in the bullpen, Maddux -- or any of the other starters -- wouldn't be overly taxed.

Just a guess, but someone like Brandon Jones should be enough to swing a deal. It's almost too storybook to happen, but if the Pads continue to scuffle, can anyone think of a good reason why it shouldn't (assuming the Pads don't ask for top prospects in return)?

--CB

May Musings from Doyle H.

Hello, friends. I've been away for a little while. Mrs. Harcavey and I spent a delightful couple of weeks visiting her sister, Prudy, and her husband, Mel, down in Sarasota. Lovely place, Sarasota. Darn if I didn't feel young down there.

But seriously, folks. A wise fella once told me, he said, "Doyle, in life you win some, you lose some." Heck. Now just look at how our Braves have made out through the first month. Yep, 15-15. Sure enough. Win some, lose some. Why, it's true.

I see where the team has just traded for a Norton, from Seattle way. Reminds me of The Honeymooners. They don't make them like Cramden and Norton any more, now do they? And what become of old Jackie Gleason? That guy was hilarious on Smokey and the Bandit, too. Suuuumbitch! Heh, heh. Sorry for the blue language, ladies.

That Hudson sure showed that science fiction Bradbury fella a thing or two, now, didn't he? According to my math, Timmy averaged striking out 1.11111 batter per inning against the Redlegs the other evenin', and allowed an average of .33333 hits an inning. Guess he can still throw fast enough.

Are all the sports writers misspelling the Blanco kid's first name? Gregor? I'm wondering if the young fella's name is really Gregory. It'd make sense. And is he kin to that Blanco fellow used to catch for the Braves?

They say an apple a day keeps the doctor away. Well, sir, an apple won't keep bunions away. Hah, hah. Along these lines, I suppose that Hampton never eats apples. What in tarnation will we do with him? In my day, why we didn't know a pectoral from a peck of pickled peppers. Some of these millionaires might need a swift kick in the bunky now and then, I believe. Now, I've never met this Hampton. He might be a heck of a fine fella. But goodness, most of the folks over at the seniors center are healthier than he is. I'm just sayin.

I read where Smoltzie's going to go back to the bullpen. Why do they call it the bullpen, anyway? And what exactly does the bullpen coach do? Just asking.

Does Ed Armbrister still play for the Redlegs?

What's Angie Dickinson up to these days? Lordy me.

I sure have enjoyed this. But it's nearly 'bout 5:30, which means me and my bride are past due over at Morrison's (and I don't mean former utility infielder Jim's house, hah.) Yum. Yum.

-- Doyle Harcavey

 

The week ahead

Three against the scuffling Padres at home, then three on the road in Pittsburgh. Jake Peavy is scheduled to pitch Thursday (likely against Jo-Jo), but otherwise the Braves have a chance to put together a nice run. If we're within five games of first at the end of May, with Gonzo and perhaps Smoltz joining the bullpen, I like our chances. If the Reds series is any indication, first place could be ours this time next week (we're only two out starting play Monday). Not bad for a team missing its ace, closer and most reliable reliever.

Think where the Yankees would be without Wang, Rivera and Chamberlain (not that BMF and Moylan are as good as their New York counterparts, but their roles are the same, and Smoltz is better than Wang). They're a game over .500 with those three, but to hear Yanks fans bellyache, no team has suffered more.

Okay, so A-Rod will end up missing about three weeks, but I don't think Phil Hughes and his 9.00 ERA qualifies as a catastrophic loss. The Yanks look old, their pitching is untested, their rotation thin and the competition a little better in the AL East than in years past.

I think this makes four years in a row, but I'll stick by my prediction that the Yanks will be spectators in October, though with the AL looking much less fearsome than anticipated, I wouldn't bet money against the Steinbrenners. Would-be contenders Detroit, Cleveland and Seattle are all under .500; if the playoffs started today, Minnesota and Oakland would join the BooSox and Angels.

As for the NL, no real surprises. I can't believe the Giants aren't in last, and the Fish are a nice story, but no team has surpassed expectations like St. Louis, the team I picked to finish last in the NL Central. Instead, they have the second-best record in all of baseball.

I hate giving credit to Tony LaRussa, so I'll give it to someone more deserving: Pitching coach Dave Duncan, who has worked wonders cobbling a credible rotation out of one legit ace -- Adam "I can't believe I was traded for Just Disabled" Wainwright -- and four Albie Lopez clones.

--CB

Natural order restored in Atlanta sports

The Braves won handily, the Hawks were embarrassed and, in a story that just broke, a prominent Falcon was *arrested.

*You'll probably have to wait until Monday for specifics on the battery charge leveled against Michael Boley, as Gwinnett County officials are not inclined to do a reporter any favors on a Sunday night.

--CB

Steve's Hawks on hiatus

It's been a great run, but after one week Steve's Hawks is calling it quits. One of the worst losses in Game 7 history (believe it or not, there have been three NBA Game 7's decided by a bigger margin, and the Hawks had lost three previous playoff games by more than 34 points) will do that to a nascent fan club. Should've called ourselves (Tom) McMillen's Wives.

The Hawks did make things interesting, and there's promise for the future, provided they fire Mike Woodson. I don't pretend to be an NBA expert, so I won't question Woodson's coaching, but beyond X's and O's he's been a disaster.

When asked how he would rate his overall performance as Hawks coach (regular season record: 106-222), Woodson responded: “Personally, I think I’ve done an unbelievable job."

Woodson made his job security a story when the focus should've been on the team, whose chances he dismissed at the start of the series. And it may not be a big deal to some, but quoting another active coach (Phil Jackson) to motivate your charges strikes me as ridiculously weak. Imagine Bobby Cox quoting Tony LaRussa.

Possible replacements? Avery Johnson -- late of the Mavs -- Mike "Kuppenheimer" Fratello and Bob Weiss. Forget Weiss, but don't forget Hubie Brown. He's old, but coached recently, and coached well.

A center would be nice (Horford should be playing the four spot, with Smith at small forward and Marvin Williams either elsewhere or on the bench), as would a young point guard. Of course, Billy Knight doesn't draft point guards (see Paul: Chris; Williams: Deron -- in fact, you can see them both in the second round). Knight is also on shaky ground with the 436 Hawks owners, though I'd prefer him to Woodson (whom Knight tried to fire this season).

The various consortiums battling for control of the Hawks might resist any big changes, as quality hires would likely be reluctant to join a franchise with unsettled ownership issues.

So how 'bout Isiah Thomas as coach and GM?

Bob Weiss doesn't look so bad now, does he?

--CB

No to Millwood

He's been rumored as a possible reinforcement for the Braves rotation, but I doubt Frank Wren will try to bring Kevin Millwood home, nor should he.

The veteran righty has been just okay this season, less so last year, giving up 213 hits in 172 IP. In his last 431 innings, Millwood, 33, has allowed 494 hits.

He's due $11 million next year, and another $12 mil in 2010, pending reachable incentives. I might consider him if Texas agrees to cover a significant portion of his salary, but don't expect to see the Cackalacky native back in the ATL.

DOB writes that the Braves are looking around for starters, but the market is thin and the price, high. We'll be throwing out some possible targets in the days ahead.

--CB

A new nickname, and other stuff

Attended Saturday's game with Caz, who came up with the only nickname possible for Chris Resop (not only did we see him pitch -- we witnessed a 1-2-3 inning, perhaps the first and last ever recorded by Re-flop).

Re-flop ain't bad, but Resop's Fables -- Caz's submission -- is better. Not sure about the costumes, and less certain that the name would register with Braves fans weaned on Foxworthy's fables, but I like it.

Some other reflections on Saturday night at The Ted:

*The between-innings host makes me long for Buttcut Guy. Wink Martindale would be annoyed by the unfettered enthusiasm of Mark Owens. One Bob Rathbun is enough.

*Jo-Jo Reyes, Your Career Is Calling: Let's hope this version turns out better than the Richard Pryor movie. Looks like it will, as Reyes seized the opportunity to become a regular member of the Braves rotation. The 23-year-old southpaw generally stayed ahead of batters, challenging a decent Reds line-up with a heater clocked consistently at 93 MPH. If Jo-Jo can be to this staff what Chuckie was two years ago, we'll be fine. And with Smoltz and Gonzo set to join the bullpen, six quality innings should be plenty.

*Adam Dunn is a useless pile of shit. He makes Ryan Klesko look like a gazelle in the field. Whereas Klesko would hustle his way into errors, Dunn's lollygagging cost the Reds repeatedly Saturday. Dunn is a FA after this season, and I hope Frank Wren resists any temptation to sign him as Tex's replacement

They might play a different position, but Dunn most reminds me of another ex-Brave: Ozzie Virgil, master of the solo homer and a liability in virtually every aspect of the game.

--CB

So far, so good for Frank Wren

We've said plenty about the Renteria deal, which looks like a major coup for the Bravos. While the Mark Kotsay acquisition won't figure prominently into the team's long-term success, it has nonetheless reaped early dividends. With Sunday's play nearly complete, Kotsay checks in with three times as many RBI as his predecessor in CF. His average (.301) is .138 points higher than Andruw's. and his defense nearly as stout.

Basically, he's playing like Mark Kotsay, before his back injury. With Jordan Schafer's transgression likely to anchor him in the minors a bit longer, the Braves might want to explore a contract extension for Kotsay, though his play is likely to net him a lucrative deal elsewhere.

--CB

*That's not to say the home team couldn't use the pitcher dealt to Oakland for Kotsay. Joey Devine has struck out 11 in 11 IP for the A's, posting two wins, a 0.82 ERA and only three walks.