Chipper to the DL?

Well, you knew he couldn’t go the entire season without missing a few games and the fact that it’s almost July and this would be Chipper’s first trip to the DL isn’t all that bad, until you consider the number of injuries the Braves have suffered. Looking at Sunday’s depleted line-up that was missing Jones, Yunel Escobar and Omar Infante and you see what I’m getting at. But Chip has been out over a week with that injured quad so it should come as no surprise that the third baseman is most likely heading to the disabled list. The injury also puts his destined all-star appearance in doubt, which sux since I actually have tickets for this year's festivities in New York!

But hold on kids, because relief is in site. Centerfielder Mark Kotsay is expected to be activated from the DL in time to take on the suddenly slumping Phillies. Kotsay's return would move Gregor Blanco into left and most likely send Brandon Jones down to AAA-Richmond. Plus manager Bobby Cox says that "Esco" should be a go by Tuesday as well. (PS is it just me or is that a lame nickname? You've got Mac, and Chip and Tex and Frenchy and Esco? Seriously, Cox needs to give him a better one.) The return of Yunel and Mark could ease some of the burden, but how do you replace a guy who’s batting .394? All I have to say is thank goodness the Braves are taking on the Phillies now. The team is just 2-8 in their last 10 games. Hopefully, they can continue their struggles for the next few days.

News&Notes: The Braves dropped the final two games against the Blue Jays, 9-5 and 1-0 respectively after taking the first game, 4-0. Pitching proved to be the lone bright spot in the Braves 1-0 loss, with Jo-Jo Reyes putting up seven spectacular innings that included only one earned run while Blaine "major appliance" Boyer managed to keep the Jays scoreless for an inning…Sunday's loss was the Braves 23rd consecutive one run road loss dating back to the 2007 season...The Braves hope to have John Smoltz back in the clubhouse in the next week or two. I have to say, any article that uses the word “kibitzing” is a winner for me.

(Photo: Tony Gutierrez/AP)

It's been fun blogging with you,

Kate