In what has become a theme this offseason, the Braves have once again signed an aging veteran who had an injury plagued 2009. This time, Atlanta decided to temporarily plug first base with Troy Glaus who played just 14 games for the Cardinals last year. He also spent a large portion of this final two seasons in Anaheim in the trainer’s room, playing a combined 149 games in 2003 and 2004.
Atlanta is also said to be looking at Xavier Nady as the answer to their current power outage in left. Great, because a hat trick is not good enough. Maybe they could go the Grodie Howe route and add a fight and an assist to the collection. Scratch that, maybe they could just bring in Gordie Howe.
My major concern is that the Braves are leveraging to 2010 for the future. Which normally I would be fine with, but considering this is Bobby Cox’s final season, I’d rather they put things on the line for a trip to the playoffs.
(Photo: Getty Images; source)
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Bring us your weak and elderly
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Braves send Vazquez back to New York
The Braves have traded RHP Javier Vazquez to the Yankees for outfielder Melky Cabrera and reliever Mike Dunn. Atlanta also sent Boone Logan to New York and received right-handed pitching prospect Arodys Vizcaino and $500,000 in the deal.
My initial reaction to the news was shear horror. Mekly is adorable like a teddy bear but I don’t really want something I created at Build-A-Bear workshop to be manning center field for the Bravos. He’s a marginal outfielder at best who amassed only 68 RBIs and 13 HRs in 154 games in 2009. And remember half those games took place in Yankee Stadium, a place where a pop fly to first suddenly becomes a homerun. In fact, in only 125 games Matt Diaz had 13 homeruns and 58 RBI, some pick up Frank!
The only upside in this deal is that it clears salary cap room to help facilitate the acquisition of a power hitter. And I swear if the Braves pick up Johnny Damon with the left over funding I am going down to Atlanta and will stalk Frank Wren like I am Tom Cruise and he is Michael David Sapir! Ok, I won’t wire tap!
(Photo: Getty Images; source)
Monday, December 21, 2009
News Heading into Christmas
Mike Gonzalez signed a two year, $12 million contract with the Orioles ending his tenure with Atlanta. Let’s see, Gonzo for $6 million a year vs. Billy Wagner for $7 million a year. 31 year old proven reliever vs. 38 year old coming off of Tommy John surgery. Oh yeah, this makes about as much sense as Gonzalez’s gingham shirt and vest combo.
Derek Lowe or Javier Vazquez heading to the Angels?
The Braves have reportedly been in talks with the Angels to trade either Javier Vazquez or Derek Lowe west for outfielder Juan Rivera. Rivera had career totals in HRs (25) and RBI (88) but he also has a history of injury shortened seasons. If Atlanta is going to give up Lowe or Vazquez, I’d rather they get someone a bit better back.
Braves stock up at the bargain bin
Atlanta have invited Scott Proctor, Joe Thurston, Mitch Gomez, Brent Clevien and three others to spring training as non-roster invitees. Proctor has made 262 career relief appearances with the Yankees and Dodgers among others. He underwent Tommy John surgery and will likely be unavailable until May. Good, he and Billy Wagner can trade war stories.
Former Brave Signings
Outfielder Ryan Langerhans has signed a one year, $525,000 contract to stay with the Seattle Mariners.
Things are also looking up for second baseman Kelly Johnson who is being pursued by the Diamondbacks.
Monday, December 14, 2009
We’ve Got A Lot of Catching Up to Do
It has been a very busy offseason for the Braves so here’s a quick look back on the last two months:
Braves re-sign Tim Hudson
After opting out of his contract, Tim Hudson decided to stay with Atlanta, signing a three year deal worth $28 million. The contract also includes a club option for 2013.
“Strengthening the Bullpen”
The Braves were unsure if either Mike Gonzalez or Rafael Soriano would accept arbitration so they decided to be proactive by picking up Billy Wagner and Takashi Saito. The idea made sense but paying Billy Wagner, an aging veteran who is coming off of Tommy John surgery, $7 million for one year seems excessive. And then add the $3 million they gave to Saito who will be forty before the season starts and it seems like that $10 million would have been served better as part of Jason Bay’s contract than on two guys who are closer to 50 than they are to 20.
Trades
Rafael Soriano surprised the Braves by accepting their arbitration offer which left them with an extra reliever and no where to put his contract ($7.25 million) so they sent him to the Rays for reliever Jesse Chavez.
After re-signing Tim Hudson, the Braves are overflowing with starters. At last count they had six legitimate pitchers going for five rotation spots. So instead of moving Kenshin Kawakami to the bullpen, alleviating the problem and keeping a competent starter for emergency use, the Braves have decided to dangle Derek Lowe. Currently, the market seems a bit stale for a pitcher who still has three more years on his $60 million contract, but Atlanta is holding out hope.
Diaz In, Johnson and Church Out
The Braves re-signed outfielder Matt Diaz to a one year, $2.25 million contract while cutting second baseman Kelly Johnson and outfielder Ryan Church. Martin Prado proved to be a much better option at second and let’s face it Ryan Church already served his purpose; he got Jeff Francoeur out of Atlanta. Anything after that was icing on the cake.
With the bullpen solidified, Atlanta now must turn their emphasis to their offense. The Braves are not contenders in the Matt Holliday sweepstakes and the Mets look to be very aggressive in the Jason Bay free for all so that leaves very few good options for the Braves - who by the way – could also use a first baseman. Xavier Nady is an interesting option. He has power, but he is coming off of Tommy John surgery. Hank Blalock has power but is not very consistent and the same could be said for Ryan Garko. Atlanta’s best option will probably come from the trade market; I just wish someone would take Kawakami off Atlanta’s hands instead of Derek Lowe.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Huddy to become a free agent?
Major League sources are talking and I am not loving what they are saying. Barring a big offer from the Braves, Tim Hudson could become a free agent this offseason. Hudson and the Braves have a mutual $12 million option for 2010, but if Hudson rejects the option, he’ll become a free agent.
Hudson has been a staple in the Braves rotation since his trade to Atlanta in 2004 offseason. Four years later, the right hander suffered a set back when he was forced to undergo Tommy John Surgery, but was able to return in September 2009, going 2-1 with a 3.61 ERA in those final seven starts.
Without Hudson, the Braves would still command one of the best starting rotations in the National League with Derek Lowe, Jair Jurrjens, Javier Vazquez, Tommy Hanson and Kenshin Kawakami. I would just rather have Hudson in there and move Kawakami to the bullpen.
(Photo: Getty Images; source)
Monday, September 28, 2009
Braves Complete Sweep; Remain 2.5 back
Braves 6, Nationals 3
With time running out, the Braves were able to pull off an extra innings victory over the Nationals to wrap up a sweep of the bumbling Nats. Brian McCann drove in the go ahead run in the 10th with a week grounder that scored Nate McLouth. Omar Infante followed with a two run single that padded their lead.
The Braves will now head home for a three game set against the Marlins followed by four against the Nationals. They’ll have to stay as close to perfect as possible to keep pace with the Rockies, but anything can happen!
Atlanta picked up a game in the Wild Card standings after Colorado fell to St. Louis, 6-3 on Saturday.
News&Notes: On Mike & Mike this morning, Buster Olney declared the Braves pitching rotation the best in the National League. I’d agree with that.
(Photo: AP)
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Braves continue hot streak but is it too late?
The Braves wrapped up their sweep of the Mets with a 5-2 victory moving them just four games behind the Colorado Rockies in the NL Wild Card. The Braves are tied for second in the race but with just over a week left is it too little too late for Atlanta?
It seems for the past few seasons the Braves have moved into a seasonal pattern. For the first few months the Braves hover around .500 until the All-Star break descends and they move into high gear propelling them right into the thick of the playoff hunt until mid-August when they begin to stumble. Once their name has fallen from reporter’s tongues as a possible playoff team (somewhere around the second week of September) they start up a hot streak, getting close to a playoff spot but ultimately falling short.
Not one to give up before they are mathematically eliminated, it seems the Braves will fail to make the playoffs for the fourth straight year. But don’t fear Braves fans, there is some hope. In the next 10 games; the Braves will play the lowly Nationals seven times. They also will play the Marlins – who are also still mathematically alive – three times. In addition to the friendly opponents, Atlanta will end the season with a seven game homestand, a place where they are four games over .500.
Still the task at hand will not be easy. As red hot as the Braves have been over the last few weeks, the Rockies have been equally as hot and the Giants - who are tied with the Braves for second in the race - feature a stellar rotation with Cy Young winner Tim Lincecum at its helm. Over their final 10 games, the Rockies will have series against the Cardinals who should have their playoff ticket punched by the start of the series, three games against the Brewers and a final series against the Dodgers who should also have the division wrapped up. The Giants, meanwhile, will play against the Cubs, Diamondbacks and Padres – all teams who are closer to a spot on the golf course than in the post season.
One thing is for sure, even if the Braves miss out on the playoffs this season, they can take pride in their stellar record and what appears to be a very exciting future.
News&Notes: Poor Martin Prado, if it’s not unexplained headaches it’s a ball ramming into his knee during batting practice…Chipper Jones stands only three homeruns away from having his 15th straight season with 20 homeruns. If he can get the required dingers, he’ll be the only person to accomplish that feat…In addition to announcing the signing of Bobby Cox, the Braves have announced they will retain their current coaching staff.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Cox to retire
The Braves have announced Bobby Cox will retire following the 2010 season after the manager and the team agreed to a one year contract extension. Cox will serve as a consultant for an additional five years.
Since returning to manage the Braves in 1990, Cox has lead his team to 14 consecutive division titles, five pennants and one World Series victory in 1995. The Braves last playoff appearance was in 2005.
I love that while I was searching for a photo to post of Bobby, about 85% of the photos featured Cox arguing with an umpire and/or being thrown out of a game. 10% showed him smiling in the dugout and the other 5% had him interacting with current and former players. I know those are some of the things I will remember most. Many others will remember his Major League leading penchant for being thrown out as P.T. Barnumesque, but for me it is just another example of how he always puts his players first. I remember a game a few years ago where Chipper Jones started arguing with the homeplate umpire about balls and strikes and Bobby came running out of the dugout and wound up being thrown out of the game. A few innings later, Chipper drove in the game winning run which would not have been possible had he been the one who got thrown out of the game.
It will be sad to see him go, but it may also be time for a new era in Atlanta.
(Photo: AP; source)
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Chipper Jones to Retire?
(Like I wrote, yesterday, I have been a bit busy so I am a little behind on this story)
Former MVP Chipper Jones said he may retire after the 2010 season if next year is as frustrating as 2009. Jones is batting a paltry .269 with 16 homers and 64 RBIs this season, but has managed to stay off the DL. He has also accumulated 70 runs and four stolen bases in 126 games for the Braves so far this season.
The Third baseman signed a three year, $42 million extension in March that would take him through the 2012 season if he decides to keep playing.
I can understand Chipper’s feelings, but I think he means more to the Braves than just numbers. As a veteran player who is the last link to the Braves 90s-early 2000s dynasty, Jones has unprecedented influence on the team’s younger core. I also think, crazy as this sounds, he’s hurt his numbers by staying relatively healthy this season. Since 2004, Jones hadn’t played in more than 137 games and his body is not used to the wear and tear of playing this regularly. It almost behooves him to miss 10 – 15 games in a row on the DL so he can recharge and comeback stronger.
I understand a certain point, Jones will retire and a new guy will being playing third for the Braves, but hopefully that won’t be for a couple more years.
(Photo: Reuters; source)
Monday, September 14, 2009
Alright Alright Alright!
So I haven’t jumped off a cliff, but I have, unfortunately, neglected this site. Although I have a couple of really good reasons; one being work, which is absolutely crazy, and two being my impending move, but I figured after a weekend sweep of the first place Cardinals I had to give a shout out to the Bravos.
Braves 9, Cardinals 2
Atlanta roughed up contending Cy Young Award winner Chris Carpenter early, while Javier Vazquez shined for the Braves in their 9-2 romp. Atlanta jumped out to a six-nothing lead after an impressive third of an inning. Carpenter easily retired the first two hitters before giving up six runs on 22 pitches in the third. It was all Braves from there on out, as Javier Vazquez tossed a two run complete game for his thirteenth win of the season. (Imagine how many wins Javy could have had had the Braves offered more run support for him throughout the year.)
The win wrapped up a solid weekend sweep for the Braves which included a 1-0 win on Friday and a dramatic late game rally on Saturday.
Atlanta has now won five out of their last six games heading into their series with the Mets on Tuesday.
News&Notes: Chipper Jones was held out of Sunday’s game with a groin injury…Man I totally missed Tim Hudson’s homerun!...Congratulations to Jason Heyward on being named minor league player of the year…The Gwinnett Braves have been eliminated from the Governor’s Cup playoffs.
(Photo: AP)
Friday, August 28, 2009
Friday Funnies
Over on my other blog, I post funny photos and stories on Friday and after seeing this photo today, I thought it was too good not to post.
I never knew Kris Medlen loved My Little Pony so much.
(Photo: AP)
Thud! Pow! Smack!
The Braves avoided the sweep by the Padres with an offensive outburst that spurred them to a 9-1 victory. Atlanta had six singles in their five run second inning which staked them to an early 5-0 lead. Adam LaRoche added a homerun in the sixth while Matt Diaz, Omar Infante and Reid Gorecki all produced RBI singles in the win.
Javier Vazquez, meanwhile, held San Diego scoreless over seven innings and even provided an RBI-single to help him break a personal two-game losing streak.
Quote of the Night: "All the teams that are losing are the right teams, which is good, so we'll keep trucking," said Braves manager Bobby Cox
News&Notes: The Braves recalled Buddy Carlyle and optioned Manny Ascosta to Triple-A Gwinnett…Jason Heyward, Freddie Freeman, Brandon Hicks and four other pitchers will all join the Arizona Fall League...Atlanta is just 4 ½ games out of the wild card and seven games out of the NL East lead as the take on the Phillies for a three game series this weekend.
Huddy Back on Monday
Good news Braves fans, TIM HUDSON IS BACK!!! The Braves have decided to have Hudson skip his final rehab start Friday and instead will insert him into the starting rotation for Monday’s game against the Marlins. Ironically, it was in Miami where he stepped off the mound for the final time before undergoing Tommy John Surgery. 13 months later and Hudson is back to bolster the Braves’ rotation just in time for their final push towards the playoffs.
Kenshin Kawakami will move to the bullpen to make room for Hudson.
(Photo: Getty Images; source)
Friday, August 21, 2009
Musings from Citi Field
Well they finally did it; the Braves finally broke the streak of losing games that I attend that are not in the month of April. Yeah, it’s been 26 long years coming, so it was nice of them to create a new tradition at Citi Field. Of course Chipper Jones going 0-for-10 in the series is not a new tradition I’d like him to create, but at least Brian McCann got a homerun, right?
Citi Field is a massive upgrade from the orange and blue disaster that was Shea Stadium or what we now refer to as the parking lot. I’d suggest starting your adventure by going through the Jackie Robinson rotunda located at the Subway/LIRR exit. The rotunda pays homage to the Brooklyn Dodgers’ Ebbets Field and certainly has the biggest wow factor of the Stadium. In the rotunda fans can stop at the large team store or proceed up the escalator to the field level. From there I would head either left or right by passing the usual concession stands and head towards centerfield. You’ll know you’re in the right place when you see three very large lines. Two of those lines are for the Shack Shake and - I won’t lie - will not move quickly, but trust me, you will not be disappointed by the Shack Shake burger (single or double) or the frozen custard shakes. If you’re in the mood for barbeque, Blue Smoke is right next door. And make sure to look up while you’re wasting away on line, directly above the Shake Shack/Blue Smoke concession stand is the New York skyline that was previously located above the scoreboard in centerfield at Shea Stadium, one of the few leftovers from that relic. There is also a video board on the backside of the scoreboard which shows replays of the game.
If you’re in the mood for French Fries, take a few extra minutes to head across the concourse to pick up the tasty treat at Box Frites. The fries aren’t remarkable (well not nearly as good as the crab fries at Citizen’s Bank Park in Philadelphia) but the dipping sauces are out of this world. (Last night I chose the ballpark mayo, which had a hint of honey mustard, and bacon varieties. Don’t be fooled by the sign, you can get an extra sauce without paying an extra fee.) After loading up on the goods (read: calories) you can head to your seats and enjoy the game.
The Stadium offers many interesting sections to view the game. My first trip to Citi I was seated in the left field upper deck, but I’ve also watched the game from the field level, right field seats, which were perfect. Under the Pepsi Porch, the seats were shaded and close to the field with very little restricted views. Another great spot is the Bridge Terrace seating which is located above the bullpen. These seats are actually tables from which fans can watch the game. There is also the Modell’s section located in right field that is literally at field level.
The Ballpark itself has a lot of modern amenities fans have grown accustomed to or could easily do so. Things like the three large video boards that show replays and game facts, TV monitors located in sections (like those under the Pepsi Porch) that do not have a view of the video boards, comfortable seats, large open concourses which blare the TV broadcast, differing concession stands on every level so you’re not stuck with just hot dogs and fries, various team stores and kids areas.
Once the game is over, make it a point to head out the bullpen exit. There you’ll see the original homerun apple and all of the Mets pennants. During the game, this is also a great place to watch the pitchers warm up.
Citi Field hasn’t surpassed Miller Park as my favorite place to catch a game, but it’s definitely worth a trip the next time you’re in New York.
(Photos: PIMC)
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Smoltz signs with St. Louis
The Cards will pay a prorated $400,000 salary while Boston is still on the hook for $5.5 million.
The eight time All-Star and former Cy Young Award winner will be joined by former Braves teammates Mark DeRosa and Adam Wainwright.
Personally, I would have preferred him to retire, but if he feels he needs to give it one last go, at least he’s more decisive than Brett Favre.
(Photo: AP; source)
Braves Whack the Mets
After giving up eight runs in one inning on Tuesday night, the Braves bounced back with their own eight run inning in what became a 15-2 wallop. The second inning started out harmlessly enough when Brian McCann hit a single. That was followed by three consecutive singles by Adam LaRoche, Yunel Escobar and Matt Diaz – the latter scoring McCann and LaRoche giving Atlanta an early 2-0 lead. Just as the Braves allowed the Mets to extend their eight run forth with bad defense the night previously, the Mets and Bobby Parnell could have escaped the second giving up only three runs if not for a gaffe by Luis Castillo. The second baseman inexplicably failed to cover second base allowing Garrett Anderson to leg out a single and keep the inning alive. The Braves would score five more runs including three off of a Brian McCann homerun before all was said and done.
Adam LaRoche and Matt Diaz would add homeruns in the sixth inning and Reid Gorecki would record his first major league hit and RBI by the time the night was over.
News&Notes: Martin Prado is suffering from extertional headaches. Hopefully he’ll start to feel better soon…Good news, Tim Hudson is feeling fine after his latest rehab start…Apparently people in Flushing just don’t hate Chipper Jones and the Braves like they used to…Tommy Hanson is part of the future of a resurgent Braves pitching staff if you haven’t heard…Mike Hampton has a partially torn rotator cuff. Just wanted to point that out in case you needed a good laugh this afternoon.
Reminder: I am heading off to Citi Field tonight to catch the Mets and the Braves. Check back tomorrow for musings and Monday for photos.
(Photo: Getty Images)
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
If only it could have ended in the third
Or if only Bobby Cox could have taken out Lowe sooner, maybe then the Braves wouldn’t have suffered an embarrassing 9-4 loss to the Mets. New York set a franchise record by collecting 10 hits in what amounted to an eight run fourth inning that knocked out Braves starter Derek Lowe early. To put things in perspective, former Brave Gary Sheffield had two doubles in that one inning.
Atlanta had gotten off to a good start with homeruns by Matt Diaz and Adam LaRoche that gave them a 4-0 advantage. But Lowe was unable to hold onto the lead sending him to his worst start since joining the Braves.
Through the clouds there is always sunshine and a bright spot for Atlanta had to have been Kris Medlen who went two and a third innings without allowing a run while striking out five.
News&Notes: Martin Prado lasted only half an inning before leaving with a sudden headache. It looks like he's not getting any better and the 95 degree muggy humid weather in New York probably isn’t helping…The Braves trip to Citi Field is a homecoming for newly called up Reid Gorecki who is from Lynbrook, NY…Mets right fielder Jeff Francoeur caught up with his old teammates before Tuesday’s game.
Ryan Church is Still Angry
It began with a simple statement from Manuel regarding the difference between David Wright and Ryan Church’s concussions. Manuel said Wright’s injury was a “different animal,” which Church believed was a low blow targeting his toughness. Manuel later apologized saying he meant nothing ill of Ryan.
It’s not hard to see why Church would get upset after the way his health was handled last season. After suffering his second concussion in three months at the knee of Yunel Escobar the Mets allowed Church to continue playing instead of immediately placing him on the DL like they have done with David Wright. All you need to do is look at his pre- and post-concussion statistics to see that was not the right move.
“From the outside looking in, the smartest thing to do obviously was to go on [the DL]. But for me, I was trying to just get back and play. I mean, they were telling me if I would have went out there and got another one, my career would have been over. And that didn't really sink in. And it wasn't like anybody was telling me, no, don't do it, go on the DL,” Church said.
Manuel claims the reason the situation was handled poorly was because Church and the Mets were not communicating well. They guy was suffering from his second concussion in three months; I am surprised he knew his name.
"I would be trying not to throw up. Standing in the outfield, just spinning like no other. Just trying to take those deep breaths, like just trying to relax myself, don't get all panicky," Church said. "It went on and off the whole year, but mostly the bad stuff was when I first came back. It was way too soon."
Eventually the Mets placed Church on the DL and he appeared to suffer from post-concussion effects for the remainder of the season. Personally, I don’t think they needed to get constant status updates from Church to know that he should have been placed on the DL immediately after his second concussion. A med student or a really smart middle schooler taking biology could have told you that. They kept him in the lineup because he had a hot bat. But in the end, the Mets only shot themselves in the foot because Church was never able to regain his early swagger at the plate.
Now that Church is with the Braves, it appears the bad blood between he and the Mets continues to flow.
(Photo: Getty Images & AP; source)
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Musings from Miller Park
This being a Braves blog, I would be crazy not to mention Milwaukee’s place in Braves history. The Bravos spent 13 seasons in Milwaukee (1953-1965) and won one World Series in 1957. Milwaukee is where the great Hank Aaron made his major league debut and also the same city where he would close out his Hall of Fame career. Warren Spahn spent part of his career in this Midwestern city, as well as Phil Niekro, Eddie Mathews and Red Schoendist.
The Brewers pay tribute to the Braves history with a Hank Aaron bronzed statue that is located outside of the homeplate entrance as well as a Braves wall (which had a visa booth in front of it, so the picture below isn’t that great.) In addition to the statue, the Brewers retired Aaron’s number, one of just five the Brewers have retired.
I highly recommend making a stop in Milwaukee to check out a game the next time the Braves are in town. And with its close proximity to Chicago (just 90 minutes away) you can do a mini road trip and also check out Wrigley Field and US Cellular Field.
Six-Pack Summer
Atlanta dominated a make-up game with the Diamondbacks Monday, scoring six unearned runs in the third inning on their way to a 9-4 victory. After giving up a solo homerun to Garrett Anderson in the second inning, Arizona pitch Max Scherzer unloaded two hit batsman (Matt Diaz and Yunel Escobar), a bases loaded walk to Adam LaRoche and then a three run double to Ryan Church in the third. Sherzer lasted another two innings before getting the ax after giving up a two run homer to LaRoche. The start was a far cry from his May 16th start at Turner Field where he pitched six scoreless innings.
The day decidedly belonged to another young pitcher, the Braves Tommy Hanson, who picked up his third consecutive victory after going six innings, allowing two runs and striking out seven.
News&Notes: Martin Prado missed Monday’s game…Long Island native Reid Gorecki had a great Monday…Congrats to Jason Heyward who was named the Southern League’s player of the month.
Nate McLouth to the DL
Atlanta called up outfielder Reid Gorecki from Triple-A to fill the roster spot.
(Photo: AP; source)
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Monday, August 10, 2009
Braves riding high out of LA
The Braves capped off a successful series against the Dodgers with a blow out victory on Sunday. Javier Vazquez took the mound for the Bravos notching his fifth consecutive victory after pitching eight strong innings in which he allowed just one run while mowing down seven Dodger batters.
Vazquez’s lone hiccup came in the fourth when a Manny Ramirez check swing double kept the inning alive for LA. Casey Blake followed with a sacrifice fly that scored Andre Ethier but the inning ended after Ramirez was tagged out trying to score on a Matt Kemp fly. The Dodgers later attempted a rally in the ninth but could not duplicate Thursday’s late inning heroics.
Matt Diaz shined, putting Atlanta on the board with a solo shot before adding an RBI in the Braves five run ninth inning.
Vazquez is now 5-0 with an ERA of 2.59 in his last seven starts. During those outings the Braves remain undefeated.
Atlanta will have Monday off before starting a series with the red hot Nationals who are riding an eight game win streak.
News&Notes: Chipper Jones missed the final three games of the Dodgers series after injuring his oblique during batting practice on Friday. Jones hopes to start on Tuesday…Kelly Johnson’s more relaxed approach certainly seems to be paying off… Just because the Red Sox have decided to demote John Smoltz doesn’t mean there aren’t other teams interested in his services.
Friday, August 7, 2009
Ugh!
Atlanta closer Rafael Soriano gave up a three run homer to Andre Ethier, giving LA a walk-off victory that left the Braves shaking their heads.
The Braves jumped off to a quick two run lead in the second with two RBI singles by Matt Diaz and Adam LaRoche. Atlanta added runs in the fourth and the seventh to regain their two run lead before Soriano’s third blown save of the season.
Ethier’s walk-off dinger ruined a solid start by Derek Lowe, who was hoping to get his second victory against his former team in a week. Lowe went six and a third innings, allowing two runs while striking out two.
News&Notes: Atlanta and first round draft pick Mike Minor have agreed to a deal that will give Minor a $2.42 million bonus…Former Brave Casey Kotchman hit a two run homer in his first start with the Red Sox. He also extended his errorless streak to 154 games.
Musings from Yankee Stadium
It’s not often on this blog that I focus on a game that does not include the Braves, but since this game featured a starting pitcher named John Smoltz, I thought it worthy for noting. (Sorry in advance for the very long post)
Yesterday afternoon I swear I had butterflies churning in my stomach. I could not wait for the clock on my computer to say 5:00 so I could rush out of my office and catch the four up to Yankee Stadium. I was so excited I didn’t even care that I was so squashed onto the four train that I felt like one of those clowns in a Volkswagen. Tonight was the night I was going to see John Smoltz pitch. And even though it would be in a Red Sox uniform I didn’t care. What better way to watch Smoltz pitch into the sunset than against my most hated team, the New York Yankees. The win would be that much sweeter. But like many things in life, that perfect game was not meant to be.
As I made my way out of that crowded subway car, I rushed down the stairs onto River Avenue and made my way down to the bleacher entrance to get to my seat. Knowing that the bleachers begin at the top of the visitor’s bullpen, I positioned myself at the edge of section 238, a spot that gave me a great angle to the pitching mound below. I got to the Stadium so early, somewhere around 5:45 that the Red Sox seemed to have just begun their batting practice. The sun shone down upon me and I began to fell like what Edward Cullen looks in Twilight, sweaty and disgusting, completing regretting my fashion choice. I didn’t care. I didn’t care that the two boys flanked on either side of me would continuously scream “Throw me the ball” whenever a ball would get remotely close to a Red Sox player. I just didn’t care. I came here to watch John Smoltz for possibly the last time and nothing could ruin that.
The Yankees starting pitcher Joba Chamberlain descended upon right centerfield and began his warm-up routine, jogging then stretching than tossing. Cheers rained upon him as gleeful Yankee fans watched “the future” in front of their very eyes.
As Joba began getting ready, Victor Martinez, the Red Sox catcher and George Kottaras, the back-up catcher jogged out to center. The pair stretched and then began tossing, but there was still no sign of Smoltz. I waited patiently, trying not to laugh too hard at the unintelligent jeers being tossed Martinez’s way. Finally, Smoltz appeared. He calmly walked from the dugout to centerfield clearly in his own world. He barely even spoke to his teammates when he reached them and walked into the bullpen and then back onto the field ignoring any sounds around him. He started tossing, increasing the distance between himself and the bullpen catcher with every toss. It was about this time that the guys sitting in the seats I was standing in front of came and I moved back to my own seat 22 rows away.
As I stood and watched Smoltz warm-up, a weird feeling emerged. I had this feeling that Smoltz was going to be ok. I took that to mean he was going to have a solid start, maybe five innings giving up only a run or two. Not a feeling like today he’s going to pitch a no-hitter, but one that made me feel like tonight was going to be a good night.
Boxer Muhammad Ali was escorted via golf cart around the outfield of Yankee Stadium before stopping at home plate to be honored by the team. The moment reminded me of a scene just one year earlier at the Old Yankee Stadium when George Steinbrenner was carted around prior to the start of the All-Star game. Fans clapped, cheered and snapped photos. It was a cool moment to witness and unknowingly, the highlight of the night’s festivities.
Then it was time for the game to begin. Smoltz started off strong retiring three of the first four batters. His only misstep, a walk to Mark Teixeira, was quickly erased after striking out Alex Rodriguez looking. I couldn’t help but produce a quick fist pump after the out. Things would not continue to run so smoothly for Smoltz.
Smoltz began to labor in the second inning, surrendering a single to Jorge Posada and a walk to Robinson Cano. He escaped any damage after Nick Swisher singled to center. Posada, running from second on contact, inexplicably decided not to slide and was thrown out at home. Melky Cabrera followed with a line out to second and Smoltz walked off the mound without allowing an earned run.
Dustin Pedroia led off the Red Sox third with a solo homer off of Chamberlain staking Smoltz to a slim one run lead. Then the wheels started to fall off in the bottom of the inning. Johnny Damon tied things at one with a solo homerun and it began to look like Smoltz did not have his stuff. Something that became painfully obvious as the start progressed.
The Red Sox battled back in the top half of the fourth when Casey Kotchman, recently acquired from the Braves, hit a two run homerun scoring Mike Lowell. It would be the last time the Red Sox would lead the game. From that moment on, the Yankees would own Red Sox pitching and John Smotlz would not even be able to register more than one out in the Yankees 8 run fourth inning.
Smoltz would later call this start the worst of his career and as an eye witness, I wouldn’t argue. The night was one I didn’t expect. Not that I am entirely surprised that he gave up a couple of runs, but more that I wasn’t expecting to come to this painful conclusion, it’s time for Smoltzie to hang up his cleats. I am not saying this because of last night’s outing but because of the collection of outings he’s produced this year. I hate that he just doesn’t have it anymore, whatever it is. I hate seeing someone who I have idolized since I was eight not be the player I remember. A player that has battled back from Tommy John surgery; who has successfully transitioned from a starter to a closer to a starter again like no other player before him. Seeing him in a Red Sox uniform wasn’t uncomfortable, disappointing or odd. It was something I had adjusted to. Seeing him play so poorly was uncomfortable, disappointing and odd. It’s a moment that almost every player will get to, but one, as a fan, you never want to see.
Even with that written, I am glad that I saw it for myself. It allows me to finish this chapter and move onto the next in my fanhood, even if I still hold out hope that he can find a successful role with the Red Sox this season so that he can end his Hall of Fame career on a high note, whether that is as a reliever or a spot starter. He has earned that Hollywood ending, and hopefully, he’ll get it.
(Photos: PIMC)
UPDATE: The Red Sox have designated John Smoltz for assignment.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Braves take two out of three from San Diego
Tommy Hanson may not have been his usual dominant self, but his teammates were more than willing to help him out, completing four double plays on defense and adding 14 singles on offense in the Braves 6-2 win over the Padres.
Hanson allowed two runs – a two run dinger by Will Veneable in the sixth – while striking out five for his sixth victory this season. The win was that much sweeter considering he did it in front of about 100 friends and family at PETCO Park that made the trip from his hometown of Redlands, CA.
Brian McCann had a two run single in Atlanta’s three run fourth.
News&Notes: Matt Diaz grounded into three double plays and added a homerun in the Braves 9-2 romp over San Diego on Tuesday…Ryan Church returned to the lineup for the first time in six games on Wednesday. Church had been suffering from a sore elbow…The Braves settled a dispute with Hartford Life Insurance Co. over Mike Hampton’s 2008 contract…Derek Lowe will pitch in LA for the first time in a Braves uniform on Thursday…Adam LaRoche has been off to a hot start since coming over to the Braves…Speaking of LaRoche, he’s featuered in this cbssports.com article…Buster Olney's Blog features Jason Heyward this week.(Warning you need to be an ESPN insider to read the entire post.)
Reminder: I am heading to the Bronx tonight to catch the Yankees and Red Sox. John Smoltz is scheduled to take the mound for the Sox so I’ll add photos and musings tomorrow!
Monday, August 3, 2009
Dodgers thump the Braves
The Dodgers bats were uncorked as they got a season high 19 hits in their 9-1 defeat of the Braves. Jair Jurrjens allowed a season high 10 hits to the Dodgers in just five innings of work, but managed to keep them in check until LA broke out with four runs in the fifth inning, punctuated by a three run homer by Matt Kemp. Kemp added a two run single in the eighth.
It wasn’t all roses for the Dodgers however; Chad Billingsley left the game after the fifth inning with a cramp in his right hamstring. Not willing to chance anything, Manager Joe Torre removed his starter and replaced him with Scott Elbert who allowed the Braves only run in the eighth.
News&Notes: Yunel Escobar’s status for Monday’s game remains in doubt…Omar Infante is getting closer to returning to the Braves…Tim Hudson’s comeback suffered a minor set back, after he was forced to miss his scheduled start on Friday with a mild groin strain…The Rays have signed free agent pitcher Jeff Bennett. Bennett was granted his release from the Braves on Thursday.
LaRoche back with Atlanta
Of course nothing is ever easy when Adam LaRoche is involved. LaRoche was informed of his trade on Friday in Baltimore where the Red Sox were scheduled to play the Orioles. From Baltimore he had planned to take a flight to Boston to collect some personal items and then fly from Boston to Atlanta on Saturday morning. But with the bad weather in the northeast, Adam’s flight from Baltimore was cancelled, thus delaying his trip back to Boston. LaRoche eventually landed in Atlanta with about an hour to spare before being inserted into the lineup.
The move itself is an interesting one. I really liked Kotchman’s defensive skills at first base and felt he was an adequate hitter. However, LaRoche adds some desperately needed power to the lineup.
(Photo: AP; source)
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Braves activate Kelly Johnson
To make room on the roster for Johnson, Atlanta optioned Brooks Conrad to AAA-Gwinnett.
I’d imagine Johnson will be in the line-up sooner or later, considering Chipper needs a few days off here and there, Prado would move over to third and Johnson would take up second.
(Photo: Reuters; source)
Braves double up the Giants
Jair Jurrjens outdueled reigning Cy Young Award winner Tim Lincecum in a battle of the young aces on Wednesday. Jurrjens allowed just one run in 7 2/3 inning, while mowing down nine on his way to his ninth victory of the season. Lincecum, on the other hand, recorded his shortest performance since Opening Day, allowing four runs in under six innings for his third loss of the season.
The win would not have been possible without a third inning three run dinger by red hot Yunel Escobar that put the Braves in front, 4-0. Brian McCann drove in the only other Braves run in the first.
Jurrjens has moved to 3-1 with a 1.93 ERA in his last four starts.
News&Notes: Casey Kotchman has yet to make an error in 118 games with the Braves…Former Braves shortstop Edgar Renteria has nothing but praise for Yunel Escobar. That’s amazing considering Escobar is the reason Renteria was traded to Detroit.
