Braves new unis debut in Washington

On Sunday the Braves debuted their new away alternate uniforms. The new unis steer clear of the old grey assemble and instead feature navy tops with grey bottoms that have red and blue striping on the sides.

I have long been a proponent for away jersey change. It seems too often the away uni is just the home jersey in grey. Yes, some teams have pin striping for their home versions adding a slight difference, but overall it’s almost hard to see a difference. This new road jersey is the perfect accent for the home alternate jerseys which feature red tops with white bottoms.



However I did have one small suggestion. On the front of the jersey I kept thinking that the Atlanta didn’t pop. At first I thought that the "Atlanta" was written in a deep red but upon further review I noticed it was navy. I would have preferred a rich red so the team logo could really stand out.



On the back of the jersey, I would once again prefer the addition of red. I liked that McCann was written in white, but the 16 would have been nicer in red. On TV it looked as if the navy letter had a satin finish, but as you can see in picture it just falls flat. But then again, at least they are not powder blue, which maybe become a hot alternative jersey, if the rumors are true.
(Photos: Drew Hallowell/Getty Images)

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Braves 2, Nationals 3

Recap: Tim Hudson was a little shaky in the first inning, not only giving up two runs but throwing an errant ball to first that allowed Cristan Gruzman to run all the way to third in the Nationals 3-2 win. Hudson settled down and at one point retired 19 batters in a row before exiting the game after the seventh. The Braves mounted a comeback with Chipper Jones launching a solo shot in the fourth and tying it up at two a piece in the ninth inning when Martin Prado was able to score on a passed ball. But in the end, the Nationals star third baseman Ryan Zimmerman played hero with a walk off homerun off of pitcher Peter Moylan to christen the new Nationals Park with a win.

Next Game: Monday, v. Pirates @ 7:10 PM/est on PTV

News & Notes: Yunel Escobar proved he had great range during the Braves road opener on Sunday. But that was no surprise to his teammates and coaches who have been praising him all year long...The Braves trimmed down their roster to 25 players optioning outfielder Josh Anderson, catcher Clint Sammons and pitchers Buddy Carlyle and Jeff Ridgway to Triple-A Richmond on Saturday...Tom Glavine will make his first start as a Brave in Turner Field in five years.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Braves claim Gotay off Waivers

The Braves have picked up another former Met, Ruben Gotay who was recently released by the Queens team. The utlity guy will be added to the Braves 25 man roster possibly taking the spot of back up first baseman Scott Thorman who cleared waivers and was outrighted to Triple A-Richmond.
(source)

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Braves 4, Mets 9

Recap: The Mets got quite a scare when pitcher Oliver Perez went down after throwing a runner out at first. Perez lay on the ground for what seemed like an eternity before getting up and walking back to the dugout. For a team that has been nursing injury problems this spring, Ollie’s lack of pain provided a welcome sign to the Mets. But it wasn’t just pitching that earned them the win; it was their bats that screamed in nine runs in their 9-4 win over the Atlanta Braves. The Mets opened up the game with three runs off of Braves reliever Peter Moylan and never looked back, picking up the spring training sweep over the Braves.
(Photo: AP Photo/Reinhold Matay)

Next Game: Friday v. Cleveland @ 7:05 PM/est

News & Notes: John Smoltz thinks he's a go to make his season debut on April 6th...Tom Glavine says its weird playing against his former team the Mets...Chris Resop says he's pleased with where he is right now...The home of the Braves new AAA team the Gwinett Braves has been cleared by regional planners...The AJC takes a look at old faces in new places. Click here to see the photos.

REMINDER: The Braves open up the season against the Nationals on Sunday. Tune into ESPN at 8 PM/est to catch all the action.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Braves 10, Nationals 2

Recap: There may not be any room for him the starting rotation, but Jeff Bennett is certainly making his case to stay in the Majors after another impressive outting in the Braves 10-2 win. Bennett pitched four scoreless innings in the game extending his scoreless streak to 11. But Bennett couldn't do all the work himself, with aid coming in the forms of Mark Teixeira's 2 for 3 day that included a double and two run homer and a 3 RBI outting by Martin Prado.

Next Game: Thursday, v. Mets @ 1:05 PM/est on ESPN

News & Notes: With the start of the season only a few days away, the Braves will have some tough choices to make but Prado and Bennett are definately letting their play do all the talking...John Smoltz will finally throw off the mound on Thursday. Smoltz is expected to start the season on the DL but should be ready for his debut on Sunday April 6th against the Mets...Miracle drug in the Braves clubhouse: anti-inflammatories...Former Braves Ryan Langerhans and Pete Orr joined Nationals teammates John Lannan and Chris Scroder in being sent down to Triple-A Columbus...In other former Braves news, the Rockies have released second baseman Marcus Giles.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Jewel of the Teixeira trade sent to the Minors

When the Braves traded five prospects to the Rangers for first baseman Mark Teixeira and relief pitcher Ron Mahay, not one of the guys sent to Texas was more covetted than catching prospect Jarrod Saltalamacchia. Salty made his presence known on the Braves for those two months he was in the Majors but because of Brian McCann's two all-star appearance butt blocking his way from starting and his inabilty to pick up first base quickly enough his ticket was punched on the trade train which sent him to Texas. Although the odd part about the trade was that Texas already had a catcher Gerald Laird. And even though the Rangers are hopefully to have a productive Salty in their line-up they are ok with giving him some more time to season to just the right taste after sending the 22 year old down to the minors while making Laird their starter for the beginning of the season.

"I'm disappointed because I did everything I possibly could," Saltalamacchia said. "I left it on the field, but at the end of the day, it wasn't good enough. ... But I'll take it and go to Triple-A and be an MVP there."

Well, that's the spirit. Now if only the Braves could hold onto their jewel Mark Teixeira for a couple more years.

(Photo: Getty Images; source)

It's been fun blogging with you,

Kate

The Braves Make A Trade

Just a couple days ago I mentioned Frank Wren's intentions to make a trade especially with the over abundance of relief pitching. Well less than 48 hours later, Wren pulled the trigger sending Tyler Yates to Pittsburgh for Double A right hander Todd Redmond. Yates, at 30 years old, was out of options so therefore a perfect candidate for a trade, but I will miss the way he made my heart skip a beat or two by pretending like he was going to blow the game before not blowing the game or well sometimes by blowing the game. Now what to do with the other two guys out of options.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Braves 0, Indians 8

Recap: I refuse to make bold statements again, after the Braves succumbed to a strong pitching performance by Indian Jake Westbrook, who struck out eight batters over six perfect innings in the Indians 8-0 wallop. The Braves went hitless until the seventh inning when Chipper Jones knocked a double off of Jorge Julio but remained in the game through the first four innings until reliever Jeff Ridgway allowed six runs in the fifth inning, putting the game out of reach for Atlanta.

Next Game: Tuesday, @ Mets @ 1:10 PM/est

News & Notes: Tim Hudson was named opening day starter...John Smoltz, who would pitch the second game of the season, decided not to throw on Monday, instead waiting until Tuesday to test his sore shoulder. It's looking more and more likely that he'll begin the season on the DL...Frank Wren is facing an over abundance of relief pitchers without any options. Wren says he's expecting to make a deal prior to Sunday's season opener...Macon.com has a very rosy view of the Braves position players. Click here to see their grades.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Braves 0, Indians 8

Braves 4, Astros 2

Recap: I'm not getting too excited over here, but it's looking better and better for Mike Hampton after giving up just 2 runs in six innings, including five scoreless innings in the Braves 4-2 win over the Astros. The Braves opened up the game with three runs in the first inning off of pithcer Woody Williams. The Astros game roaring back in the sixth tagging Hampton two runs in the forms of a Hunter Pence and Carlos Lee solo shots before Brian McCann put it out of reach for Houston with his own solo homer in the seventh.

Next Game: Monday, @ Indians @ 1:05 PM/est

News & Notes: The Braves cut seven players on Saturday including centerfielder of the future Jordan Schaefer, outfielder Brandon Jones, pitcher Jo-Jo Reyes and catcher Javy Lopez...Blain Boyer has not been cut yet, but he's not a sure firer major leaguer yet either, as he tries to battle his way into the bullpen...John Smoltz could open up the season on the DL...The team has placed Mike Gonzalez (elbow) and infielder Omar Infante (left hand) on the 15 day disabled list and put Anthony Lerew (elbow) on the 60 day DL...After being traded to Texas in the Mark Teixeira deal, former Brave Jarrod Saltamacchia could start the season in the Minors...Another Former Brave Marquis Grissom dawned the uniform once again, but this time it was for charity.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Javy Lopez to Retire

Any hopes that Javy Lopez would join Tom Glavine in returning to the Braves this season were cut when Lopez was dropped from the roster on Saturday. With no hope of returning to the big leagues, Javy decided to call it a career once and for all.

"He told me he really wants to retire as a Brave, said he thinks of himself as a Brave after spending the bulk of his career here. And that's how we think of him, too," GM Frank Wren said.

I was hoping he'd be able to join the team for one last season, but it was not meant to be. It just proves that for the team to succeed it can no longer look back at the magic of its 14 straight division titles and expect it to just reappear. Instead they must concentrate on the new crop of stars that will help propel the team to playoff contenders again.

(Photo: AFP/GETTY IMAGES/Elsa; source)

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

No need to panick but...

The Braves have scratched John Smoltz from pitching Friday's game against the Indians after Smoltz reported to camp with tightness in his right shoulder. The Braves are going to give him a couple days rest and possibly have him make his next scheduled start on Wednesday against the Nationals. Smoltz was on the DL last year with a shoulder problem but is saying his shoulder doesn't feel quite the same.

Thanks goodness although even the mere mention of having him start the season on the DL is giving me palpitations. This is going to be a close chase for the NL East between the ageless wonders that are the Mets and the scrappy Phillies so every game will be important. And while I often tout the fact that the Braves have some pitching depth they aren't ready. Jo-Jo Reyes is pitching like it's batting practice and Chuck James proved he doesn't know how to get passed the fifth inning without giving up a homerun and omg...I am staying calm. Breathe in, breathe out. Ok, this is me not panicking. It's only spring training, right? Smoltz will be fine after all he's not Mike Hampton.

(Photo: Elsa/Getty Images; source)

It's been fun blogging with you,

Kate

Braves 3, Tigers 2

Recap: The Braves sure have been hot hot hot this spring training but Billy Martin always said he thought it was better if you didn't do that well during spring training, that it helped you in the regular season. Well I don't quite agree with that especially after the performance Tim Hudson had on Thursday in the Braves 3-2 victory. Hudson went six innings allowing only one unearned run while Chipper Jones smashed a ball over the fence in the fourth and added a double in the sixth to help secure the Braves win.

Quote of the Game: “I’m feeling good. The confidence is up. The body is healthy. I’m ready to go.” - Chipper Jones

Next Game: Friday, @ Indians, 1:05 PM/est

News & Notes: Josh Anderson is making his case loudly after knocking in the game winning run in the ninth inning...Jeff Francoeur went 0-3 in his first game since getting beaned in the face...With cuts expected to announced on Friday, it's looking like Jo-Jo Reyes will be sent down to the minors...MLB.com talks with Bobby Cox here.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Josh Anderson makes the Grid

Josh Anderson was a part of the this week's Sports Illustrated Pop Culture Grid. Click here to see his answers.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Sing A Song

Here’s the one song I think describes each of member of my projected Braves starting rotation.

Tim Hudson – Lupe Fiasco “Superstar”
Tim Hudson has been a bit of disappointment since coming over from the A’s but following a horrendous 2006, Timmy really stepped up in 2007 and made a conscious decision to make a change and become the pitcher the team could depend on, not only winning on my birthday (thanks Tim) but also by winning 15 other games for the Braves and lowering his era from 4.86 to 3.33. But as the song goes “If you are what you say you are, a superstar/Then have no fear, the crowd is here/And the lights are on/And they wanna show.” So this season, Mr. Hudson, we’re all waiting to see if you can give us the show.

John Smoltz – Alicia Keys “No One”
John Smoltz is not only my favorite Braves player, but he also the only player to be a member of all 14 division title teams not to mention his unorthodox spring training regime makes this one a no brainer. Smoltz had spent a large part of the spring throwing simulated and minor league games before playing against the big boys on March 15th. Smoltz cruised through four scoreless innings against the Rays before hitting a bit of a speed bump in the fifth, giving up five runs in two thirds of inning. However Smoltz is not one to dwell and seemed encouraged with his first spring training start of the season. I can hear him telling everyone “don’t worry, because everything is going to be alright.” Although I don’t think he would sound quite as good as Keys, it still would be just as soothing.

Tom Glavine – Willie Nelson “On the Road Again”
After five years playing for some crappy team in Queens, Glavine is back home with the Atlanta Braves for what could amount to his final season ever. Tommy’s final month with the Mets was less than desirable, but I figure it’s because he finally realized he should have never ever left Atlanta. But that like 2/3 inning performance the final game of the season was enough for me to want him to come back. Although I probably wouldn't give him the ball if the Braves were in a similiar siutation but it did make a great Monday at work with all those dejected Mets fans coming in. Way better than the day after the regular season in 2006. Anyway, I chose this song over the more obvious Daughtry song “Home” because of the hopefulness it projects. “Like a band of gypsies we go down the highway/We're the best of friends/Insisting that the world be turnin' our way/And our way/Is on the road again” Even with all of the hype Johan Santana is bringing to the Mets, I’m thinking things are going to turn the Braves way this year and Tom Glavine will be a major part of this change because Julio Franco surely didn’t do it for us last year.

Mike Hampton – Danity Kane “Damaged”
Mike Hampton has not played in a regular season Major League game in over two years. He has a bum elbow, he injured his hamstring playing one game in Mexico and then injured his groin earlier this spring training. Like there’s another word that describes him better than damaged. But the real question posed is “how you gonna fix it?” Well besides rest and a whole lot of prayer, it seems like Mike Hampton may finally be able to get back into the rotation. Although I was kind of thinking that last spring training and then Mark Redman was pitching so I’m completely holding my breath, crossing my fingers and toes, doing weird turns, throwing salt over my shoulder, whatever it takes to keep this guy healthy. I’m excited about the talent that will be in the minors but I’m not sure they are completely ready.

Jair Jurrjens – OneRepublic “Stop and Stare”
Jair Jurrjens came over to Atlanta from Detroit as a member of the Edgar Renteria trade. While I was upset that they were getting rid of Renteria, I understood the potential that Yunel Escobar possessed and the low salary he received. And as an extra bonus, the Braves picked up young ace Jurrjens who has been crazy good during Spring Training impressing myself enough to add him as the fifth member of my mock rotation. Seriously this kid may have only played in just over 30 innings in the Majors but he’s only allowed 1 run in nine innings pitched in the spring including a run of eight straight scoreless innings. Going up against Chuck James, who’s recovering from surgery, Jo-Jo Reyes who’s all over the place and Buddy Carlyle who truly slowed down as the season progressed, there’s no reason Jurrjens can’t make the rotation. Don’t believe me, just stop and stare.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

New Links

I've been getting a little antsy you know waiting for the Big Dance to start so I started looking around this new fangled worldwideweb and found a couple cool sites for you Braves fans to check out. Just look over at the links section and go have some fun.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Braves 7, Astros 8

Recap: It was a good day for Astros pitcher Shawn Chacon. His five inning, one run performance may have earned him a spot in Houston's rotation. The same could not be said for the Braves Jo-Jo Reyes who may have killed his chances of getting the final spot in their rotation with his five run, six hit four inning performance in the Braves 8-7 loss. F ormer Braves reliever Oscar Villarreal was the true Achille's heal for the Stros allowing five runs in his 1 and 2/3 inning appearance allowing the Braves to back in it, but in the end the Astros were too much.

Next Game: Thursday, v. Tigers, 7:05 PM/est

News & Notes: Jair Jurrjens will start on Saturday instead of Tom Glavine. Glavine will instead pitch a minor league game...Even though he gave up a two run homerun during the Braves loss to the Astros on Wednesday, the Braves are encouraged by Rafael Soriano's progress...Kelly Johnson is looking to be a little more patient at the plate. That's something I think a couple of Braves players could learn...Speaking of patience, Bobby Cox is impressed with how Mark Kotsay is playing...The Braves are planning on making their second round of cuts of Friday.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Quick healer

According to the AJC Jeff Francoeur took batting practice and shagged balls on Wednesday only a few days after getting beaned in the face. The swelling on his face has gone down as well and the kid is thinking about getting back in the game on Thursday in the Braves game against the Astros. I don't know if he's incredibly brave or just plain old crazy but either way, it's good to know that he's willing to give it all and get right back in there.

(Photo: Elsa/Getty Images)

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Off Day

The Braves had a rare off day on Tuesday but will be back in action today taking on the Astros at 7:05 PM/est.

Meanwhile, there is some minor concern about the status of closer Rafael Soriano who has been nursing a sore elbow most of spring training. If he is unable to play at the start of the season, the Braves do have a bunch of arms to choose from to replace him. The plethora of bullpen help is really exciting the team especially the diversity in delivery and style of pitching.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Good news, Good news Edition

The Braves got some great news on Monday. The first is that Mike Hampton may actually make it to the start of the season...healthy...well healthy enough to play after tossing 75 pitches in the Braves 4-2 loss to the St. Louis Cardinals on Monday. I never ever, ever, ever thought Mike Hampton would pull through and make it to the regular season. But maybe I should bite my tongue it is after all only March 18th. But it is looking good. And even better for the Braves if they need an extra starter they've got a couple of good ones in the farm so they don't have to go out and pick up Mark Redman again.

The other good news they received is that following Jeff Francoeur's horrible hit to the head that had fans thinking back to 2004 without fond memories will not hinder his ability to play come Opening Day. He will take a couple days off, I mean you try getting wacked in the head a changeup and see how you feel, but he will be back.

Plus the Mets are completely falling a part. Jose Valentin is heading back to New York to get shots, Ramon Castro comes up limp running out what could have been a double on Sunday and then Carlos Delgado gets hit by the shard end of a Brady Clark bat during the same game. It just goes to show, you can't have everything.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Braves 3, Cardinals 2

Recap: It was a scary day for the Braves as right fielder Jeff Francoeur was hit in the face by "a change up that got away" from pitcher Todd Wellemeyer, but Francoeur never lost consciousness and the Braves were able to stand behind their fallen teammate in their 3-2 win over St. Louis. Tom Glavine had his longest start of Spring Training going five innings and allowing only two runs while teammates Yunel Escobar and Chipper Jones knocked in the only runs of the game for Atlanta in the form of homeruns.

Next Game: Monday, @ St. Louis @ 1:05 PM/est

News & Notes: John Smoltz got his first star of spring training cruising through four innings before allowing five runs in the fifth. Smoltz was encouraged by the start, though. Thank goodness it's only spring training...Tim Hudson looks posed to take the mound on opening day for the Braves...Javy Lopez is hoping to make it out of Spring Training as the Braves back-up catcher...Good news, Manager Bobby Cox no longer is thinking about retiring in 2009.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Tornado Rocks downtown Atlanta

A tornado ripped through downtown Atlanta on Friday. The twister hit the Georgia Dome during the SEC tournament while Alabama was going against Mississippi State. The tournament was eventually moved with Georgia being the unlikely victors of SEC. The city is currently cleaning up from the storm, with costs estimated at around $150 million. so here at PIMC we send out our well wishes to those effected.



It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Braves 6, Tigers 6 (10 Innings)

Recap: Chuck James "was outstanding" according to manager Bobby Cox in his two scoreless innings for the Bravos but it was not enough as the Braves tied the Tigers 6-6 in 10 innings. The Braves struck first with Joe Borchard knocking in Javy Lopez before crossing the plate off of a Martin Prado single in the second inning. But Jo-Jo Reyes mid game turn on the mound was disastrous, Reyes was charged with five runs over his three innings, which allowed the Tigers to get back into the game eventually tying things up at 6 a piece in the eighth, a score that would last the over the final two innings.

Next Game: Friday, @ Phillies @ 1:05 PM/est

News & Notes: Even with his scoreless preformance on Thursday, it's very likely that Chuck James will start out the season in Richmond...Bobby Cox is deciding on which members of the team will start off in the bullpen come opening day...Martin Prado and Brad Lillbridge are competing for a utlity spot in the Majors this spring training.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Braves 11, Indians 4

Recap: It was a coming out party for Atlanta's bats during the fourth inning when nine players crossed homeplate making up for the three homeruns pitcher Buddy Carlyle gave up during his three innings on the mound in the Braves 11-4 win. Yunel Escobar was able to extend his hit streak to 11 while Blaine Boyer, Tyler Yates and Jorge Campillo pitched scoreless innings with Bueno giving up the other Indians run.

Next Game: Thursday @ Tigers @ 1:05 PM/est

News & Notes: Chuck James is ready to make his first start of spring training on Thursday against the Tigers...Mike Hampton threw a simulated game on Wednesday and reported feeling fine afterwards.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Cutting Day

The Braves trimmed their roster by nine on Wednesday. Among the names that will not be gracing the Major League field for now were pitchers Charlie Morton, Phil Stockman, Zach Schreiber, Matt DeSalvo and Jairo Cueveas, catchers J.C. Boscan and Tyler Flowers and infielders Diory Hernandez and Javier Guzman.

Stockman seems mostly likely to head back to the bigs if his shoulder can stay healthy. He along with Morton and Desalvo were moved to AAA-Richmond. Morton will be a member of a pitching rotation that will include Chuck James and Jeff Bennett. Boscan was re-assigned to Mississippi where he'll join Cuevas who was optioned to the team while Flowers was re-assigned to Class A Myrtle Beach. Hernandez and Guzman were re-assigned to Minor League camp.
(source)

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Braves 2, Nationals 2 (11 Innnings)

Recap: The Braves first night game of the spring ended up being a little longer than they hoped resulting in a 2-2 tie with the Nationals after 11 innings of back and forth play. Tom Glavine took the mound for the third time allowing only two hits in four innings and one unearned run while his Nationals counterpart John Patterson struck out three and allowed three hits but no runs in his three innings. The Braves knotted the score at 2 with a ninth inning two out, two run single by Joe Borchad, a score that would stand for the rest of the game.

Next Game: Wednesday, v. Indians @ 7:05 Pm/est

News & Notes: Rafael Soriano threw a bullpen session without any pain or discomfort and is hopeful to make his Grapefruit League debut against Detroit on Thursday...Mike Hampton will pitch a simulated game on Wednesday allowing Buddy Caryle to take the mound for the Braves in their game against the Indians...Adam Wainwright's preformance against the Braves has only added to the John Smoltz's amazement of the former Brave.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Braves Hungry for Playoff Return

For 14 consecutive seasons the Braves were divisional champs punching their tickets to the playoffs while inserting themselves into five World Series appearances. But the past two years have been a totally different story for the team. Instead of watching the games from the dugout, players and managers alike have had a not so comfortable view from their couches and they are not enjoying the view quite as much.

"I watched the (playoff) games on TV because I love to watch them. But it's more
exciting to be in the dugout," Manager Bobby Cox said.

While a certain pitcher has found other ways to pass the time,

"I played in a golf tournament in 1988, '89 and '90 and then didn't play again
for 14 years," said ace righthander John Smoltz. "I played the last two years."

But Smoltz along with his fellow teammates are looking to get back into playoff picture and once again become that dominate team that is able to intimidate others by simply just showing up like they did for the 14 straight years. GM Frank Wren sees the answer in acquisitions like Tom Glavine and Mark Kotsay, the "return" of Mike Hampton to the rotation and in the promotion of Yunel Escobar to everyday shortstop. Not to mention having back to back switch hitters Chipper Jones and Mark Teixeira in the line-up. One thing’s for sure, the Braves will have to earn the respect of other teams across the league with their once well known staple of sharp pitching. Having John Smoltz, Tim Hudson and Tom Glavine around can make that dream a reality and maybe even punch their ticket back into the playoffs.
(source)

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Union cheif visits Braves camp

Major League Baseball Players Union President Donald Fehr made an appearance at Braves camp on Tuesday. Among the things he talked about over his 2 hour rant was blood tests for HGH. While publically Fehr said he would be willing to allow blood tests when a proper test is found for HGH, privately he told players about the "pitfalls of using blood tests." Telling them if proposals asking to freeze players blood samples were inacted, said samples could possibly be contaminated.

Braves player rep Jeff Francoeur thought Fehr's talk was encouraging for the players, adding that Fehr insisted that "baseball is in a great state right now, as far as financially with the teams making money and players making money. It's a great thing right now."

Fehr makes annual rounds to each team to discuss the state of baseball and any concerns he may have for the players future.
(source)

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Braves 3, Cardinals 1

Recap: Jair Jurrjens scoreless innings streak is up to 8 after allowing only two hits and walk during his four inning appareance during the Braves 3-1 win over the Cardinals. St. Louis starter Adam Wainwright had difficulties in the first inning giving up two runs to the Braves before settling in. Javy Lopez added a homerun in the seventh on the way to a Braves win.

Next Game: Thursday, v. Washington @ 7:05 PM/est

News & Notes: Mike Hampton will not make his scheduled start on Wednesday but will instead throw a simulated game. Hampton felt a little tightness in his groin in final pitches of a bullpen session on Monday...He may already drive a hummer but 21 year old prospect Jordan Schaefer is looking to walk the tight line between being an ass and just being confident...A letter handwritten by Hank Aaron sold for $24,150 at Hunt Auctions. The letter was dated November 22, 1951 and was written to Syd Pollock, former owner of the Indianapolis Clowns of the Negro League.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Braves give high praise to Edgar Renteria

While only being in Atlanta for two seasons, Edgar Renteria was able to make quiet an impact on the Organization. So much so, that manager Bobby Cox made it a point to explain to his players why Renteria was traded to the Detroit Tigers over the off-season, an act Mr. Cox had never done in his 27 years of managing.

"We'll miss him," Cox said. "We had to do it (trade him). He is a super guy. He is always smiling, always playing hard. He does everything you want."

The move may have been emotionally unpopular, it did make great business sense. Not only were they able to clear up $9 million in salary (which was used to bring in Tom Glavine) they were also able to upgrade Yunel Escobar from super-sub to an everyday player at short stop. And who knows what the future holds for prospects Jair Jurrjens and Gorkys Hernandez who were apart of the trade from Detroit. Of course, Edgar does not count out returning to the Braves one day, just probably not this season.
(source)

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Braves 12, Cardinals 5

Recap: Matt Diaz went 2 for 3 with three runs in the Braves trouncing of the Cardinasl 12-5. The Cardinals made it close in the seventh when Brian Barton drilled a two run triple but the Braves broke it wide open in the eighth knocking in three runs including Josh Anderson's two-run double. Diaz's spot on performance was matched only by Scott Thorman's four RBIs and Tim Hudson's well-pitched four innings.

Next game: Monday, @ St. Louis @ 1:05 PM/est

News & Notes: John Smoltz threw is final simulated game on Sunday...Closer Rafael Soriano threw a bullpen session on Friday morning, saying his elbow felt better....Peter Moylan threw his first inning for the Braves on Sunday after missing a week with a sore elbow...Chuck James threw batting practice for the third time since having shoulder surgery in the off season...Diaz has spent the past two seasons hitting above .300 for the Braves but has been unable to prove his worth as a starter for the team in left field. Could his .458 Grapefruit League average push him over the edge going into this season? Or will the Braves incredible depth in the outfield keep him platooning in left?

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Mike Hampton Hopeful...again

After leaving Friday's 9-6 loss to the Detroit Tigers early with a groin injury on Friday, Mike Hampton is staying "cautiously optimistic" that he'll be able to jump right back into the rotation on Wednesday. Hampton worked out on a stationary bike on Saturday and is hoping that this will not be a major setback for him. The hurler is attempting to make his first big league regular season start since August 2005. Since then, the former 20 game winner has being sidelined with a nagging elbow injury. He also injured his hamstring during a blinked and you missed it trip to the Mexican League over the winter.

The Braves were hoping to use him as a number four starter this season, but the fragile Hampton is forcing the Braves to look at possible back-ups like rookie Jair Jurrjens, Jeff Bennett and Jo-Jo Reyes.
(source)

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Mike Hampton injured...again

This morning we brought you a list of articles on espn.com that featured Mike Hampton. Not five hours later and it seems Hampton's making news again, the kind of news that Braves fans have gotten pretty used to hearing. Hampton was forced to leave Friday's game against the Tigers early with a groin injury. Luckily, "the ailment is [not] believed to be serious" but it once again proves how fragile the hurler is. At this point he's listed at day to day but adding this to the right hamstring strain he sustained while pitching in Mexico and the left elbow issues, Mikey's doctor visits are rivaling that of an 87 year old senior citizen.

The good news of the day was that Chipper Jones was able to return to the lineup after sustaining a minor hamstring injury last week. Although, can an injury involving Chipper Jones at this point be considered minor?

(Photo: AP Photo/Joe Kaleita; source)

It's been fun blogging with you,

Kate

Braves 5, Tigers 4

Recap: Tom Glavine pitched through two clean innings before hitting a speed bump and maybe a couple of rumble strips during the third, throwing 31 pitches before heading out a with 2 2/3 innings under his belt. Luckily for him the Braves came out swinging in the fifth registering all five runs in that inning, but not before running into a prowerful Dontrell Willis who allowed only two hits and one walk while striking out three in the Braves 5-4 win.

Next game: Friday v. Detroit, 1:05 PM/est

News & Notes: While the Braves knew trading Edgar Renteria was good for the team as a whole, his former teammates were happy to hang out with him again on Thursday...The Braves are impressed with prospect cather/first baseman Tyler Flowers.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

A Mike Hampton Round-Up

I clicked on espn.com's MLB page this morning and it was like Mike Hampton City. Click here for Jayson Starks interview with the Braves pitcher. Click here for Stephania Bell's possibly overly optomistic view on the 35 year old.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Braves 4, Indians 1

Recap: The Braves came one batter away from having a combined no-hitter, instead they had to settle for their 4-1 victory over the Indians. Atlanta came one out away from the fete, until Indians batter Danny Sandoval hit a RBI single off of reliever Colter Bean to end the streak. By then, the game was easily in hand for the Braves who broke it open in the fourth with three runs off of reliever Joe Borowski. Mark Teixeira added a solo shot in the fifth to make the score to 4-0.

Being a spring training game, the Braves can be encouraged by the impressive perfect three inning performance by Jair Jurrjens who battling it out for the final spot in the Braves rotation.

Next game: Thursday @ Detroit, 1:05 PM/est

Braves Notes: Have you heard, Smoltzie's doing things differently this season...He's also handing out advise to young players like the Phillis Cole Hamels...The Braves will certainly be sending a mature group of starters to the mound this season...Today's game against the Braves maybe one of the few Edgar Renteria will get against his old team.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

The Tiger Show takes its act to Braves batting practice?

I know that John Smoltz said he was going to change up his spring training by throwing more simulated games and games against the minor leaguers in the Braves organization but I didn't know his new regime would also include pitching to golf stars. Apparently, I don't think outside of the box enough because one of the batters Smoltz faced on Wednesday was none other than Tiger Woods. Smoltz along with Braves teammates Tom Glavine and Jeff Francoeur took on Woods in his more familiar playground, the golf course on Monday and pretty much got smoked. So it's only far that John returned the favor by striking out Woods twice and allowing for what is being called a "controversial single" in his final at bat.

"I've got the second baseman making that play," pitching coach Roger McDowell deadpanned.

Smoltz also faced teammates Chipper Jones, Tim Hudson and Francoeur in his simulated game.
(source)

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Braves 10, Phillies 1

Recap: The bats came alive for the Braves knocking in 7 runs in the first 3 innings before tacking on 3 more in the ninth. The Phillies were only to muster up one run in the first, a RBI single from Ryan Howard, the only run allowed by Tim Hudson and the rest of the Braves pitching staff during the Braves 10-1 win. Brent Lillibrige and Mark Teixeira were able to awaken their sleeping bats combining for five hits and three RBIs while Jeff Francoeur and Joe Borchard added two RBIs a piece in the Braves win.

Next game: @ Indians, March 5 @ 1:05 PM/est

Braves Notes: The Braves are monitoring Rafael Soriano's right elbow. The pitcher is said to have minor inflammation in his pitching elbow...Chipper Jones could be back in the lineup as soon as Thursday after missing a couple days with a hamstring injury. It's spring training, take all the time you Chipper until you feel overly healthy.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Golfing it out

While some of their teammates were over in Port St. Lucie taking on the Mets, John Smoltz, Tom Glavine and Jeff Francoeur were shooting a round of golf with Tiger Woods. It's not secret that the team is filled with golf enthusiasts, so it probably shouldn't surprise anyone that the crew skipped off to Isleworth after the morning workout. Or that Tiger Woods dominated that show, shooting a 66. Or as Tom Glavine described the Braves play,

"We got him maybe on a couple of holes. The other 16, he was pretty good."

The Woods match-up seems to be a tradition for Smoltzie, after all, isn't Smoltz the one with plans for the Senior Tour after he finishes up playing baseball? He has to get used to playing against the best at some point. But for Francoeur, who was playing in only his second game against the golf pro, it seemed his awe or maybe excitment might have gotten the best of him.

"Francoeur had trouble - he just could not calm down," Braves pitcher John Smoltz said.

Maybe next year.
(source)

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Braves 2, Mets 3 (10 Innings)

Recap: The Mets Mike Pelfrey was impressive in his three inning start, going scoreless and inducing six ground outs. The Mets offense backed up their pitcher scoring a run a piece in the second and third innings. But the Braves battled back putting up a run in the fourth when Matt Diaz singled in Jordan Schafer and then tied it up in the eighth off a sacrifice fly from Schafer. But it was the Mets with the final word in the 10th when Ruben Tejada hit a double to right-center that scored Michel Abreu from first giving the Mets the 3-2 win.

Next game: v. Phillies, March 4 @ 1:05 PM/est

News & Notes: Good news, the Braves are looking financially stable after earning $23 million in 2007...The Braves are high on catching prospect Tyler Flowers who was knocking some tape-measure like shots during Monday's batting practice...Reliever Matt DeSalvo says he's feeling more at home with the Braves...Scott Boras is looking for a big pay day in the off season when his client and Braves first baseman Mark Teixeira hits the open market. While Teixeira says he likes Atlanta, it maybe hard for the Braves to compete with the likes of the Yankees who are said to be interested in the two time gold glover.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Braves renew Jeff Francoeur's Contract

While the Braves had been working with Jeff Francoeur's representatives to hammer out a one year contract for the right fielder, talks must have stalled because the Braves have unilaterally renewed Jeff's contract. He will reportedly earn somewhere around $450,000, up from last's years contract of $427,000. The team was able to renew his contract because Francoeur has less than three years of service in the Majors.

Francoeur will be eligible for arbitration in 2009, but hopefully they'll be able to sign him to a long term deal like they did with his buddy Brian McCann. In 2007, they locked up Mac to a six year, $26.8 million deal.

In other news, the Braves signed catcher Brayan Pena, first baseman Scott Thorman and pitchers Peter Moylan, Jeff Bennett and Anthony Lerew to a one year contract locking up all members of the 40 man roster for 2008.
(Photo: AP; source)

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Braves 7, Astros 5

Recap: Tom Glavine took the mound for the first time since coming back to the team that drafted him in 1984. Glavine said he was a little nervous for the Grapefruit game after a group of fans started cheering him, but was able to strike two batters out while allowing a second inning homerun to Ty Wiggington. Luckily for Tom, the Braves were able to rally with four runs in the ninth to beat the Astros, 7-5.

Next game: @ Mets, March 3rd at 1:10 Pm/est

News & Notes: Mike Hampton had a sharp outting for the Braves on Saturday, throwing 15 of his 22 pitches for strikes and allowing only one single. It's still way too early to tell if Hampton will be able to stay healthy, but it is a step in the right direction...Two weeks into Spring Training and Chipper Jones has already suffered his first injury this time in his right hamstring. Jones is not expected to miss a significant amount of time...Jeff Francoeur and the Braves do not seem close on agreeing to a long term deal, in fact, GM Frank Wren says the negotiations to sign Francoeur to a single season contract are stalling. Jeff has said he would like to remain in the Braves organization.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate