Five Reasons the Braves are Primed for a Good Run.

by ejruiz on Jul 2, 2009 1:00 AM EDT Comment 89 comments

There has been a dark cloud hovering over our Braves this year and it's lead to a fair amount of negativity here on Talking Chop. Fortunately, we are beginning to see the first rays of light breaking through. I thought I'd share some of my observations with you all to see if we can't get a little more positivity going in order to help clear up that stormy sky. Follow me below the fold and let's get our anti- rain dance on, people!

Yo ho, yo ho, an ex-Pirate slugger for me: Center field (sub-.600 OPS) has quietly been our area of greatest need this year, so much so that Frank Wren felt the need to go elsewhere to find help. The trade for Nate McLouth was largely supported here and for good reason. Unfortunately he's been hurt as of late, but he should provided us with a solid all around boost when he does come back. Nate hasn't been great in Atlanta yet (.771 OPS) but he's hit better than that in two full seasons prior to this one (.840 OPS) and in his start in Pittsburgh this year (.819 OPS). He's a complete player who should provided an added spark to the line-up in all phases of the game.
Mr. Anderson is starting to believe: So far this season, our left fielders have put up a .weak 272/.325/.409 line. Our modest free agent acquisition, the unexcitable Garret Anderson, had been largely underwhelming. That is, of course, until the month of June came along. Garrett is finally living up to his reputation as a "professional hitter" by posting .306/.333/.471 slash stats this past month. This improvement is actually an accurate reflection of his career trends, such as the nearly 150 point improvement in OPS from his mediocre pre-All-Star break numbers (.703 OPS) in the 2006-2008 time frame to his surprisingly solid post-All-Star break figures (.851 OPS) during that span. Remember, he was also injured during Spring Training this year, so his regular timetable was likely pushed back some.
Take two at second base: Kelly Johnson, our primary second baseman this season and for some years prior, has mustered up only anemic offense in 2009. The underlying reasons for his struggles may be debatable, but the resulting .637 OPS has been an albatross around Atlanta's neck so far in this campaign. Both Omar Infante (1.046 OPS in 45 AB) and Martin Prado (1.124 OPS in 30 AB) have truly impressed in limited duty at the position, while also filling in admirably all over the field from time to time. It's a real shame to have to sacrifice the versatility that having both of them on the bench provides the team, but they've earned the full-time opportunities coming to them. Since he's the healthy and hot one now, Martin gets the first crack at holding down 2B. In 2008 and 2009, he has done nothing but hit whenever he has been called upon and I sincerely believe that he can do a fine job with even more at bats.
Five of a kind, aces: It's not very often when a team whose strength is great starting pitching can call upon the game's top pitching prospect to round out its rotation. Despite Derek Lowe's recent slump (he's still a workhorse and got off to a hot start, so he could turn it around as he did in his last start) the Braves still boost the best starting five in the National League. After a rocky start, Kenshin Kawakami (roughly 3.15 ERA, 1.23 WHIP and 6.6 K/9 in May and June) has been every bit the consummate pitcher that dominated in Japan. Despite underwhelming peripherals from time to time, Jair Jurrjens continues to put up quality start after quality start. Trade acquisition Javier Vazquez (3.04 ERA, 1.06 WHIP, 10.6 K/9 on the year and improving) is becoming a dark horse for the Cy Young Award or at least a deserving All-Star. Finally, Tommy Hanson (23 consecutive scoreless innings pitched) is beginning to live up to the enormous hype. With one of those five starters taking the mound everyday, Atlanta should have every opportunity to win games day in and day out.
The cavalry is here: the Braves bullpen is finally beginning to take a shape we can all be happy with. Rafael Soriano (an ungodly 1.23 ERA, 0.90 WHIP and 12.0 K/9) and Mike Gonzalez (a still amazing 2.68 ERA, 1.22 WHIP and 12.2 K/9) are being used as co-closers so as to maximize their effectiveness through match-ups and they are reaching their maximum potential. The closer's role is vastly overrated and will - hopefully - be replace by the concept of bullpen aces sooner rather than later, but this is a solid baby step in the right direction. Building a bridge to the back end of the bullpen are solid performances and arms, such as the surprising Eric OFlaherty (.222/.276/.296 against lefties and .250/.333/.268 against righties, with awesome triangle numbers overall) and the improving Peter Moylan (2.67 ERA, 1.29 WHIP and 7.4 K/9 since his horrendous first two appearances when he got rocked while getting no one out); the former is proving to be more valuable than a LOOGY and the later has apparently shaken off what was left of the rust coming back from "Tommy John" surgery. The emerging Manny Acosta (2.30 ERA, 1.28 WHIP and 6.9 K/9 in 15.2 IP) and quality starter-in-long-reliever's-clothing Kris Medlen (one baserunner against five strikeouts in three scoreless appearances as a reliever, with two messy ones sandwiched in between) further augment a really deep 'pen. Whomever ends up rounding out this staff is extremely unlikely to have to perform in high leverage situations, but there are plenty of decent options available to us once more pitchers get healthy again.

Well guys and gals, I'm going to leave it at that for now because it's late, I'm tired and I'm writing this on the fly. I hope you all enjoyed a look at some of the bright spots on our roster as we move forward this summer and fall. Perhaps a desperate acquisition or call for a fire-sale should be averted, seeing as we have all of this improvement to look forward to from within our own ranks.

I hate to admit it, but I'm starting to like the 2009 Atlanta Braves chances once again. Maybe I'm setting myself up for disappointment once more, but then again, this isn't all entirely irrational. Moreover, what's the point of being a fan if you can't scrounge up some hope and enjoy the games in a positive light from time to time. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to chime in below and I will happily respond. Thanks for taking the time to plow through this rather dense FanPost and, as always, go Braves!

P.S.: I apologize in advance for any typos, incoherencies and potential inaccuracies above. As I said, I produced this almost stream of conciousness not expecting it to be this long. I hope whatever mistakes I made in substance and/or style don't overshadow the point(s) that I was trying to make. Cheers!

Poll

Did reading this post change your opinion of the Atlanta Braves chances to compete in the remainder of the 2009 season for the better?

Yes, I now believe this team as it is currently constructed will be better moving forward.

155 votes

No, I still believe major changes must be made in order to make this team competative now.

68 votes

223 votes | Poll has closed

11 recs | Comment 89 comments

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Comments

Atta baby nice post

Only thing i say is we gotta hold our horses just a bit. Yes, we’ve won 3 in a row against good teams, but how many F’ing times have we won 3 or 4 in a row, and then sucked it for a week?

Sorry to be a negative Nancy, im just saying use caution.

But besides that, go Braves and lets sweep the Sillies and the pathetic Nats this weekend.

2009 Atlanta Braves Motto: We ♥ leaving RISP.

by mvhsbball on Jul 2, 2009 1:04 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Actually our biggest wining streak is 3. Quite suprising, huh?

"A Tar Heel Born and a Tar Heel bred, and when i die ill be a Tar Heel dead."

by mad_dog_maddux on Jul 2, 2009 9:43 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Rec’d
I think we will be better moving forward, but so will the Mets when their injuries shake out. And I just don’t know if we will be good enough.

by yondaime4 on Jul 2, 2009 1:04 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

How about "I thought they were fine BEFORE I read this?"

Also, was Prado just “not called upon” when he was OPSing 650 last month?

Remember, kids...don't ever let facts get in the way of your argument.

by MichaelProcton on Jul 2, 2009 1:18 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

word

by acie4mvp on Jul 2, 2009 1:43 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

You just don’t want to like the guy.

Has the whole world gone crazy? Am I the only one around here who gives a s#!t about the rules?!?

by TennKen on Jul 2, 2009 8:27 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I just want people to realize he's not freaking Joe Morgan.

Remember, kids...don't ever let facts get in the way of your argument.

by MichaelProcton on Jul 2, 2009 11:52 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Joe Morgan, the player

because I think that Prado the player could be Morgan the announcer.

Prado is to 2b what Morgan is to broadcasting.

"Actually, Justin was right."
by bigjoe on May 15, 2009 9:04 AM PDT

by justincredubil02 on Jul 2, 2009 11:54 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Seriously?

You honestly believe Prado is that bad???

"A player who conjugates a verb in the first person singular cannot be part of the squad, he has to conjugate the verb in the first person plural. We. We want to conquer. We are going to conquer. Using the word 'I' when you're in a group makes things complicated." ~ Wanderley Luxemburgo, 1999

by ejruiz on Jul 2, 2009 1:39 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

as a fielder? yeah, I do. He is a decent enough hitter (by that I mean he isn’t horrible), but his fielding is pretty bad – especially when you look past the most recent 2 games.

"Actually, Justin was right."
by bigjoe on May 15, 2009 9:04 AM PDT

by justincredubil02 on Jul 2, 2009 1:55 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs

I'm glad I'm not the only one.

Prado will be nothing more than a role player. They keep exposing him to everyday play – his true colors are going to come through.

Rain Delay - Two Teams, Two Coasts - One Obsession

You can also check out my stuff at Baseball Daily Digest

by RainDelay on Jul 3, 2009 1:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

You are far from the only one. I’d say it is almost 50/50 on this topic based on the poster’s responses.

"Actually, Justin was right."
by bigjoe on May 15, 2009 9:04 AM PDT

by justincredubil02 on Jul 3, 2009 3:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well...

He doesn’t have to be Joe Morgan (the player), just Clint Barmes, Alberto Callaspo or even Felipe Lopez. You don’t think he can do that? I mean, replacement level would be an improvement at 2B so far this year…

by ejruiz on Jul 2, 2009 1:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

There's a slight difference...

Even if he can put up their 100-ish OPS+ numbers as a full time player, they’re both at least average defenders at 2B, and Barmes is well above that. Prado, however, has shown himself to be well below average there over the course of his career. That’s a concern for me.

Remember, kids...don't ever let facts get in the way of your argument.

by MichaelProcton on Jul 2, 2009 10:38 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ahhh.

Well, is he so bad as to make us miss Kelly Johnson’s defense with his bad bat?

by ejruiz on Jul 2, 2009 11:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I suppose only time will tell.

But his 2B numbers over his career are atrocious.

Remember, kids...don't ever let facts get in the way of your argument.

by MichaelProcton on Jul 5, 2009 1:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Gotta say...

This.

"Actually, Justin was right."
by bigjoe on May 15, 2009 9:04 AM PDT

by justincredubil02 on Jul 2, 2009 9:23 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I BELIEVE

Nice post. Rec’d

SubParr

by nick9314 on Jul 2, 2009 1:18 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

This post has me feeling great about everything!

… except RF.

by VivaLosBravos on Jul 2, 2009 1:19 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

my heart says yes

but my brain says hell the fuck no

by esadb on Jul 2, 2009 1:27 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Seems like it’s all going to come down to whether the Mets and Phils will be able to improve their clubs before the trade deadline.

"When life gives you lemons, just say 'F*ck the lemons,' and bail."

by Bravely going forward on Jul 2, 2009 1:28 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

more like if the Mets and Phils ever get healthy sometime before the season is over.

2009 Atlanta Braves Motto: We ♥ leaving RISP.

by mvhsbball on Jul 2, 2009 1:41 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

well yea…and if they don’t, they’ll probably try to trade for arms/bats

"When life gives you lemons, just say 'F*ck the lemons,' and bail."

by Bravely going forward on Jul 2, 2009 1:49 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

the Marlins are only .5 games back...

WTF?

2009 Atlanta Braves Motto: We ♥ leaving RISP.

by mvhsbball on Jul 2, 2009 2:00 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

It's amazing

what good pitching can do for a club.

"Actually, Justin was right."
by bigjoe on May 15, 2009 9:04 AM PDT

by justincredubil02 on Jul 2, 2009 9:24 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Phils and Mets

I dont think that either the Phillies or the Mets can improve their starting pitching enough before the trade deadline to be able to hang with the Braves or the Marlins starting pitching. If the Phils and Mets are going to take the division, I think they will have to slug their way into the pennant.
To me the team to watch out for is the Fish, their lineup isnt too shabby and their starting pitching is full of potential aces. The only downside for them is that their pitchers are all very young, but I’m sure we all remember how dominant the young Fish starters were the last time they got a ring (Beckett, Burnett, Penny, Pavano).

by CornerThug on Jul 2, 2009 9:41 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree. There really doesn’t seem to be a good number of names out there in free agency this season, especially in terms of hitters. Looking at the standings, there’s only maybe six teams you’d consider “out of it” right now. I like the parity, but it means there just isn’t going to be that silver bullet out there in terms of a hitter. Matt Holiday will go somewhere, but someone is going to give up a king’s ransom for him.

The Phillies are in the same boat Atlanta is in. They have the hitters, they just aren’t hitting. Who would they replace. To me, the only position they might remotely consider an upgrade is at third or catcher. Everyone else is a potential all-star.

Similarly, I don’t know how many good arms will be available. There are so many teams that could make a run right now, that it doesn’t seem as though a lot of top hurlers will be available. However, for the Phillies, anything might be an upgrade. Their starting staff is some kinda bad.

by kalesi on Jul 2, 2009 11:20 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

We've gotta do something with RF. GOTTA!

by KC Ryan on Jul 2, 2009 6:23 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I said it last time it happened, and my opinion stays the same. We’ve got to get back to .500 and stay before i get too excited about our playoff chances. We got to 3 games over awhile back and then the freefall began.

But it is encouraging that we’ve won 3 in a row without Escobar or McLouth in the lineup.

"Ohhhh Shit."-Bobby Cox, 3/28/09

by 10-4 on Jul 2, 2009 8:51 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Stole the words right out of my mouth.

by soup du jour on Jul 2, 2009 9:01 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I completely agree

However, this division is a lot more winnable this year than last. A lot more. The Braves are relatively healthy and will just get stronger with Infante and Hudson coming off the DL. Now is the time we need to string together a winning streak.

by kalesi on Jul 2, 2009 9:25 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree

but the division is awful. The Phillies are only 3 games above 500. A win tonight puts us 2 games behind, the Marlins 0.5 games back, and the Mets be 1.5 games back (if they win). That’s such a close race! It’s hard not to be excited, I’m bringing my broom to the Ted!

by McGriff the Crime Dog on Jul 2, 2009 11:52 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Nice!

Completing the sweep tonight would do wonders. You really have to take advantage of head-to-head match-ups against the teams ahead of you in the standings.

by ejruiz on Jul 2, 2009 1:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Good post

Hopefully the struggling Phillies are just what the doctor ordered. No, the Braves don’t have a ton of power and aren’t going to club teams to death, but I don’t think that’s such a bad thing. While, sure, a big power bat sitting in the middle of the lineup would be a luxury, I don’t think it is nearly a necessity.

Two quick examples: 1) the 2007 NL Champ Rockies had four guys on roster with over 20 home runs; 2) The 2008 AL Champ Rays had only three guys with over 20 home runs. The Braves have at least Chipper, McCann, and McLouth that should reach that plateau by seasons’ end.

Good pitching is the key and we have it. Atlanta hammered the best pitcher the Phillies have last night while our #3 had a no hitter through seven. Hudson is coming off the DL and the rotation will just get stronger. It’s been clear the whole season that the need has been consistency, not power. Once we start connecting with runners on base, the W’s will start to follow.

This is the time the Braves need to hit their stride.

by kalesi on Jul 2, 2009 9:22 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Response So Far...

Thanks for the comments and the recs, guys! I’m with you on the whole “cautious optimism”, but some times it’s just fun to take that leap of faith. Sure, we’ve been burnt plenty in recent years, but there’s still reason to believe. If we turn OPS’s of .650ish in CF, LF and 2B into something more respectable (I’m thinking at least .750ish, but is .800 OPS from McLouth, Anderson and Prado really unreasonable?) and our pitching holds steady, then we’re going to start winning a higher percentage of games. We’re just three games back of our division lead on July 2nd, so it’s not like we’ll need some epic run to make it happen. Take it a game at a time and wait for arbitrary benchmarks to be met before getting back on the bandwagon; just read this FanPost as my bandwagon driver’s license application. Thanks again for taking the time, guys, and go Braves!

by ejruiz on Jul 2, 2009 10:15 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

You are on quite a roll

you should post more often!

"Actually, Justin was right."
by bigjoe on May 15, 2009 9:04 AM PDT

by justincredubil02 on Jul 2, 2009 10:20 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Thanks!

Well, I think doing it once a week would give me the time to put a solid piece together, so expect something from me about every so often. I appreciate your interest and contributions in my threads!

by ejruiz on Jul 2, 2009 1:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

agree with Mr incredible, very nice work sir. keep em comin!

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by bravesguy311 on Jul 2, 2009 2:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Thanks!

It’s my pleasure to write stuff like this and getting an interesting, civil conversation going on here!

by ejruiz on Jul 2, 2009 2:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Count me...

100% with you, and ultra bullish on the Bravos, and have been pretty much the whole season. I am the anti-negative. I guess that makes me the positive. Yeah, I’ve got the stream of consciousness thing going on as well…… GO BRAVES!

"It breaks your heart. It is designed to break your heart. The game begins in the spring, when everything else begins again, and it blossoms in the summer, filling the afternoons and evenings, and then as soon as the chill rains come, it stops and leaves you to face the fall alone." A. Bartlett Giamatti

by sddbaker on Jul 2, 2009 10:21 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah.

I wouldn’t call myself ultra-bullish, but I have to believe this team will only get better as the pieces continue to fall into place. The keys guys that are playing well are the ones that are supposed to, so regression there should be minimal. Where we’ve been weak, we’re bound to get stronger and the stats are starting to back that up. Go Braves!

by ejruiz on Jul 2, 2009 1:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree

about the leap of faith. Be optimistic! We have a good enough team (potentially) and we are in a horrible division (for now at least). Like you said, sometimes its part of being a fan. I BELIEVE IN ATLANTA (even made shirts that say so, if you ever see me at the Ted).

by McGriff the Crime Dog on Jul 2, 2009 11:56 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Awesome!

I’ve never been to a game at the Ted, but I hope to some time soon. If/When I make it out there, I’ll be sure to set up a meeting with all the TCers out there. I believe in Atlanta, too!

by ejruiz on Jul 2, 2009 1:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Great Positive Post

Thank you, we need more post like this one. Thank you for loving and believing in the Braves!
If ever you make a trip to Atlanta for a game let it be known, and those of us close enough would love to hook up with you, as we watch “OUR” team win!,

I can see the effects of our positive thinking, winning games!

Keep your post coming……..

Go Braves!

by HEYJUDE on Jul 3, 2009 2:08 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ejruiz

Nice post. I gotta say i think im usually pretty optimistic about the Braves but gotta say your more optimistic than me. I mean i agree i think we have a chance this year but i mean you talked about the Braves havin a big second half of last year and i gotta say once like mid July came i was like this aint gonna work, maybe sooner cant remember. Im not pointin out you was wrong last year just pointin out you bein optimistic. I do like that, we need more of that on here. rec’d post.

braves#1

by rockybull on Jul 2, 2009 12:41 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Well...

To be fair, I’m often wrong about things… I’m just prolific enough to make up for that fact with the occasional correctness! I view this sort of prognostication as a hitter would his average or OBP: if I can avoid dipping under the Medoza Line, then I might be able to keep my starting job!

At this point, it’s fair to be cautious about believing in our team. I know I went out on a limb by posting this, but it felt like the time was right. It was certainly fun to write it! Thanks for checking in.

by ejruiz on Jul 2, 2009 1:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I would like to think the Braves will make the playoffs and I know were only like 3 out but I just dont think we will but martin over kelly is a huge improvment. so right now i give the braves a 15% chance of making the playoffs

by Heyward is the next crime dog on Jul 2, 2009 12:46 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

baseball is not a game of putting all stars at every position. If a guy is consistent and puts the ball in play, he will help us out tremendously.

by kalesi on Jul 2, 2009 1:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Kalesi,

Great big statement with very few words!

by HEYJUDE on Jul 3, 2009 2:16 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hmmm...

I like us at at least 25% for the playoffs. I don’t mind being on the overly positive side of the curve right now, but I see how it can seem a little reckless.

by ejruiz on Jul 2, 2009 1:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree with that 25%

I’d say we have just as good a shot at winning the division as anyone, so that automatically gives us at least a 25% shot.

"Actually, Justin was right."
by bigjoe on May 15, 2009 9:04 AM PDT

by justincredubil02 on Jul 2, 2009 1:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

That Was My Thinking...

Honestly, I’m so unimpressed with the Phils and Mets pitching that I like us that much more. They’ll be waiting around to get healthy and won’t do enough at the deadline to improve their respective squads. If we pounce now while they’re staggering, then we could be in the catbird seat moving forward. As per the headline, I’m seeing this as a definite possibility.

by ejruiz on Jul 2, 2009 2:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

That's what most of the statistical projections have us at.

Remember, kids...don't ever let facts get in the way of your argument.

by MichaelProcton on Jul 2, 2009 10:40 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well...

Those projections on have what we’ve done to work with. As I stated in the original post, this team is going to be much better moving forward, or at least it sure looks that way…

by ejruiz on Jul 2, 2009 11:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

We are in the same spot we were in one year ago, so don’t get too excited, but I do think that we are much better off this year. I would like to say we have a good shot, but we are still going to have to beat out the 3 teams infront of us.

by wcubmac on Jul 2, 2009 1:06 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Difference, though. Last season we had no quality starting pitching out of anyone not named Jair Jurrjens. It’s been proven time and again in this league, good pitching beats good hitting 7 days a week.

Look at our 12 pitchers and compare them to every other team in the NL East. If the Braves even remotely start hitting with runners in scoring position they could take a lead in this division.

by kalesi on Jul 2, 2009 1:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I totally agree, good pitching back in the 90’s, is what began our 14 consecutive divisional titles!
We went from last to first on the back of good pitching! I believe we are on the right path to start winning the divisional title again!

by HEYJUDE on Jul 3, 2009 2:30 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Actually.

The standings may look the same, but the circumstances are different enough. Right now we have a fantastic rotation instead of the patchwork one from last year and our solid bullpen is more well rested and perhaps just flat out better than their predecessors. Like I pointed out above, three voids in our line-up so far are about to or getting better. I can see why some are cautious, but I’m choosing not to be so. If I get burned, so be it; I wouldn’t mind being celebrated if I’m right though!

by ejruiz on Jul 2, 2009 1:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Things are different, standings the same though. I think offense often wins during the season, and pitching come post season. I think we have to get up on the Mets right now, we have to take 2 of three from the phillies every time we see them, because I don’t think they will play like they are now. Im not sure about the Marlins, I want to say that they will faulter, but who knows

by wcubmac on Jul 2, 2009 3:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Weird...

I’m far more impressed by the Marlins this year than either the Mets or Phillies. It won’t be easy, but for the first time in a while, I’m thinking it’s possible and maybe even probable.

by ejruiz on Jul 2, 2009 4:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree, from what I’ve seen, the Marlins are going to be the team to beat. Of course, things can change when the Mets and Phils get healthy.

by HEYJUDE on Jul 3, 2009 2:35 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

A little off topic, but has anyone seen smoltz beard around? havent seen him post in a while

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by bravesguy311 on Jul 2, 2009 3:08 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I was wondering the same thing myself.

"Actually, Justin was right."
by bigjoe on May 15, 2009 9:04 AM PDT

by justincredubil02 on Jul 2, 2009 3:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Its either because A) he just moved and doesn’t have internet or B) this place is insufferable

BravesHeart, my new, corporate-sponsored blog - NEW STUFF DAILY!!!

by bigjoe on Jul 2, 2009 10:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

as insufferable as it has become (and it is partially my fault, i am sure) it certainly makes the workday go by faster.

"Actually, Justin was right."
by bigjoe on May 15, 2009 9:04 AM PDT

by justincredubil02 on Jul 3, 2009 12:18 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Saw him post in a game thread last week I guess..

A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings.
~Earl Wilson

by BeantownVol on Jul 2, 2009 3:19 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

you would think..

I would have gotten better with the reply button

A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings.
~Earl Wilson

by BeantownVol on Jul 2, 2009 3:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Great timing on this post

Keep this up, and you’re going to be expected to logically explain why the Braves are still in contention and primed for yet another win-streak in August, September, and at the start of October’s slight spillage. The first and third games with the Phillies, I could’ve easily seen last year’s squad collapsing under the lost leads, but both instances, this 2009 team just did not falter, and came out with big wins instead.

Keep up the great posting.

No wonder nobody likes you, Tuttle... everything's a (Pujols) damn debate.

by royhobbs on Jul 3, 2009 2:16 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Thanks!

The bullpen is surprisingly strong at this point, the rotation is every bit what w expected and the line-up is starting to pick it up for various reasons. I’m out on a limb, I guess, but I don’t feel all that crazy for stepping out here…

by ejruiz on Jul 3, 2009 5:08 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

84 games to go

9 against the Phillies, 12 against the Nats, 13 against the Marlins, and 13 against the Mets. 47 opportunities to grab hold of this thing.

The very worst you can say about this team is we can still control our own destiny. Lots of opportunity left to get ahead in the race. Tough schedule out of division though. This team HAS to keep it going against the Nationals this weekend. I’ll be at 2/3 of the games cheering them on!

by fphjr01 on Jul 3, 2009 8:28 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Niiice!

That’s a great way to look at our schedule. Have fun at the Ted and go Braves!

by ejruiz on Jul 3, 2009 5:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

A sweep of the Phils is just what we needed to get going, and a sweep of the Nationals would put us over .500 for the first time in a while. And I agree, Garret Anderson is coming around and we need him and Diaz in there everyday helping us out. I honestly wouldn’t mind running Garret/McLouth/Diaz for a while in the outfield and seeing how it works, Gregor has been playing better as of late as well.

Something along the lines of – McLouth/Prado/Chipper/McCann/Escobar/Garret/Diaz/Kotchman is actually pretty deep. Not to mention, we’ve won 4 in a row with Chipper and Mac in a little bit of a slump, and no Nate. I think we’re primed for a run now more than ever, and hopefully we can run over the Nats this weekend.

by BigG1392 on Jul 3, 2009 9:22 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Chipper

was not slumping during this mini-streak. Mac has been typical Mac for the past two games.

"Actually, Justin was right."
by bigjoe on May 15, 2009 9:04 AM PDT

by justincredubil02 on Jul 3, 2009 11:44 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Depth.

We’re going from damn near five automatic outs in the lne-up to just about two. This line-up is going to score significantly more runs than we have been so far…

by ejruiz on Jul 3, 2009 5:10 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

In case anyone missed it, cause I sure did, we just went through that deadly 13 game streak against CHC, BOS, NYY, and PHI with a 7-6 record. That’s pretty impressive when we were 6-12 in other June games.

by 17843 on Jul 3, 2009 1:20 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Yup

and what were we saying before that stretch? We were saying that this would determine the rest of our season and show us really what kind of team we have. I’d say things are looking pretty good.

"Actually, Justin was right."
by bigjoe on May 15, 2009 9:04 AM PDT

by justincredubil02 on Jul 3, 2009 3:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well...

We were fortunate that the Phillies have collapsed, but we made it through some of the big money teams in a row with no problem. I trust this team moving forward and expect we’ll be in good shape at the end of this month.

by ejruiz on Jul 3, 2009 5:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

3-0 in july best record in baseball

by carolinabrave89 on Jul 3, 2009 3:20 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

2-0 in july best record in baseball

excuse me

by carolinabrave89 on Jul 3, 2009 3:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

HAHAHA!

I like the positivity!

by ejruiz on Jul 3, 2009 5:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

now were 3-0 in july

HOTTEST TEAM IN BASEBALL IN THE MONTH OF JULY

by carolinabrave89 on Jul 3, 2009 10:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hate to be a negative nancy

but I had to vote No. First, really good to see you back. You’ve always posted really creative/interesting content – glad to hear you’ll be posting more often!

My take:
1. I was one of those dissenters regarding the McClouth trade. It wasn’t that I didn’t want him, he’s clearly far superior to anything we’ve trotted out there all year, it was more about giving up on the prospects we sent to Pitt. Yes I have always been a proponent of trading prospects for production but in this case I wanted a little more. Having said that, I am glad that McClouth is a Brave but I still feel he is just one of the pieces to the puzzle – not “the” answer.

2. Mr. Anderson – I’ll admit he is doing better (lately) than I expected but considering 306/.333/.471 is his “hot” streak I don’t feel encouraged. If this could be his expected year end performance I’d be all over the place explaining how I was wrong, but I just don’t see him keeping it up. I hope i’m wrong!

3. The enigma that is KJ. The recent news that he’s been playing through injury explains some of his situation. Still I expected a lot more. Unlucky or not we need more production out of this position so i’m all for riding Prado’s hot streak. We shouldn’t count on him performing at this level for long though.

4. Pitching has been a dream. Couldn’t agree more with you here. I am completely against trading JV – love me some Huddy but we all know how hard it is to come back from TJ and perform at elite levels. I don’t think we can count on Huddy to be anything more than an average number 5 starter or long reliever when he does come back so tinkering with the rotation at this point would be a mistake in my opinion.

5. Soriano – the man behind the bullpen. I said back at the beginning of the season that Sori would put up Mo Rivera type numbers this year. OK, so maybe not quite that good but it’s hard to argue he’s not one of the best in MLB this year. Gonzo has performed better than I expected and could be better still if he’d stop with the stupid “rocking wind-up” crap. I haven’t checked this in while but last I looked his stats were far superior when throwing out of the stretch. He is quickly becoming the next K-Rod to me (over-hyped overly arrogant average reliever). Still, he’s getting the job done … for now.

I’m all for riding the hot streaks of Prado and GA but I am also looking to Wren to make another move for a bat. If, and that’s a big IF, he can make a trade for a bat without impacting our current rotation I feel we become the favorites in the division. Otherwise it will be a dog fight from here on out!

You aren’t the czar of typographic emphasis

by scstrato on Jul 4, 2009 12:19 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

2. Anderson’s line during his current “streak” is .371/.375/.548. That’s not over the last three games, it’s not over the last week, it’s not over the last 10 days. It’s over the last three weeks. The man knows how to hit, he was just hurt at the beginning of the year.

5. Why the fuck do you care if Gonzalez needs to rock to throw the way he wants to? He just lost his first game of the year…in 41 appearances!

Remember, kids...don't ever let facts get in the way of your argument.

by MichaelProcton on Jul 5, 2009 1:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

GA – It was the OP who provided the slash stats, not me, so I was merely pointing out that his “streak”, not matter what it is, will not last. GA is a drain on this team and whether he “knows how to hit” or not is irrelevant.

MG – I fucking care because he represents my favorite team and his arrogant “rocking” makes him less effective. I’m not debating whether or not he’s been over-used, in fact there is no debating that in my mind. I am debating whether he could be more effective if he put his arrogance in his back pocket instead of displaying it.

You aren’t the czar of typographic emphasis

by scstrato on Jul 5, 2009 3:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

He rocks therefore he is arrogant…I fail to see that connection.

Anderson has not been a drain on this team since he has fully recovered from his early season injury. In fact, he has been fairly productive over the last month and a half or so.

"Actually, Justin was right."
by bigjoe on May 15, 2009 9:04 AM PDT

by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2009 4:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

It’s just my perception I guess, why else would he do it? It could be it gives him an edge, which would be a false perception on his part, but to me it’s just him showing attitude which I translate to arrogance. Either way it is clear that he is less effective when he “rocks” than he is when he pitches from the stretch.

Can’t argue that GA hasn’t been productive during the last three weeks to a month, but on the year as a whole he has a negative value. I hope i’m wrong, I hope he keeps it up … I am a Braves fan afterall.

You aren’t the czar of typographic emphasis

by scstrato on Jul 5, 2009 4:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I guess, but does Dempster’s glove twitch make you think he is arrogant too? Or Nomo’s ridiculous windup? I think it is just part of Gonzo’s delivery, much the same way that Maddux would hold his glove in front of his face and take a deep breath on almost every pitch.

And sure, GA has a negative value on the season as a whole, but you gotta remember he was playing injured for most of April and that he missed spring training. He is starting to get into mid-season form and I think will be even better here on out.

We’ll see though…

"Actually, Justin was right."
by bigjoe on May 15, 2009 9:04 AM PDT

by justincredubil02 on Jul 5, 2009 6:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Anderson.

He’s always been a second half hitter and he’s just starting to get hot. I expect him to keep this up and improve, because his history supports that.

by ejruiz on Jul 5, 2009 8:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Whew, I got through the whole darn thing.

Very thought provoking post ejruiz. I’ve not clicked on it until today so my thoughts incorporate the games since the Phillies sweep (which was more than fantastic btw).

I must say that the enthusiasm the sweep of the Phillies gave all Braves fans has been a challenge to maintain throughout this year with their insistence on hovering at or below the .500 mark. This team will excite me with a great series against teams that should kick our butts, only to lose to teams like the Nationals in games we should have won.

I’ve made an effort over the last couple of weeks to try and keep the negativity to a minimum and find the areas to focus on that are more positive. However IF they trade Javy Vazquez, I just may have a conniption.

I will always watch and root for the Braves to succeed. I’ll always have that small glimmer of hope that we’ll find a way to score runs for our outstanding starting pitching and when down in the 9th we’ll somehow find a way to come back and win it. I would never turn on the TV to watch or log into TC in the game threads if I felt ahead of time we would not find a way to win the game. That’s what fans do.

Once again, great post and I hope you’ll continue to post regularly.

"Well behaved women rarely make history" ~ Laurel Ulrich

by NCChopper on Jul 8, 2009 10:41 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs