Atlanta Braves Making The Team Meter 2011: Week 4

by gondeee on Mar 18, 2011 8:24 AM EDT

The fourth week of the Atlanta Braves Making the Team Meter (MTM), and we get more cuts from the team, several of them were predicted my last week's MTM. We had cut Johan Flande, Shawn Bowman, and Wilkin Castillo last week, and the Braves cut them this week. They also cut Brent Clevlen, Jose Constanza, Anthony Varvaro, Cory Gearrin, and the biggest surprise Stephen Marek.

This week the MTM will cut a few more from the Braves spring roster in anticipation of them being cut by the team at some point in the next week. But it's not all bad news, I'm going ahead and declaring that Freddie Freeman has made the team. I kept him on the MTM to track his spring, but he's proven that he can handle it. The rotation, bullpen, and bench still have some jobs up for grabs, but the competition is narrowing.

As always we'll assume that there is a group that has already made the team, a pretty safe assumption with these guys:

Starters: Tim Hudson, Derek Lowe, Jair Jurrjens, and Tommy Hanson (1 spot available)
Relievers: Peter Moylan, Jonny Venters, George Sherrill, Eric O'Flaherty, and Scott Linebrink (2 spots available)
Lineup: Brian McCann, Dan Uggla, Alex Gonzalez, Chipper Jones, Martin Prado, Nate McLouth, Jason Heyward, and Freddie Freeman.
Reserves: Eric Hinske and David Ross (3 spots available)

Player, Position	This Week's Trend	Last Week	Notes and Comments
Juan Abreu, RHP			Still doing good, but probably behind a few people. I would imagine he'll be in the next round of Braves cuts.
Jairo Asencio, RHP			Also still doing good. I'll keep him below 50-50, but I still like his chances as a dark horse.
Brandon Beachy, RHP			He keeps on impressing, and he continues to be a great success story, but Minor has the inside track on the fifth starter spot. The team wants Beachy to continue starting and stay ready in the minors.
Craig Kimbrel, RHP			Good back to back outings. A few more like that and he's a lock (if he's not already).
Cristhian Martinez, RHP			With Scott Proctor sucking, Martinez likely moves to the top of the list for the last spot in the pen. He still needs to go out there and finish spring strong or Asencio could steal his spot. For now he deserves a green arrow.
Mike Minor, LHP			I was amazed to see that he's only given up one run this spring. I'm excited to see if he can be the lefty we've been looking for in our rotation.
Scott Proctor, RHP			And BOOM goes the dynamite. Proctor was already on shaky ground, but now he's probably headed out the door. He's surrendered more earned runs this spring than the entire projected starting rotation for the Braves. It should be an easy choice for the Braves to release him, as it will save them close to a half million dollars in salary, and there are plenty of better options available.
Kenshin Kawakami, RHP			He's been pitching good for having missed the first few weeks of spring training. Someone's gotta need a starter out there! If nothing else, he's raising his trade value.
Rodrigo Lopez, RHP			He'll probably stay around for another week, but he's a soon to be cut pitcher. He'll join Beachy as starting pitching depth at triple-A.

Player, Position	This Week's Trend	Notes and Comments
Brooks Conrad, IF		He's starting to hit a little more of late. I still think the hitting he did last year earns him a spot on this year's team.
Diory Hernandez, IF		He's been playing very well and drawing some praise from various people. With Lucas slumping at the plate lately Diory could be moving closer in the backup infielder battle.
Brandon Hicks	Cut	He hasn't gotten the playing time that the other backup candidates have. He's behind Diory and Lucas, so I feel he'll eventually be cut, therefore I'm cutting him.
Joe Mather, IF/OF		Gosh I wish he'd do something at the plate. Still, the Braves seem to be in love with him. I'm keeping him low though, maybe that's more wishful thinking on my part.
Jordan Schafer, OF	Cut	The more I see him the more I know he needs time in the minors. Getting him back to his form from three years ago is more important for the Braves long term plans, as Schafer could have a more important role if McLouth leaves at the end of this year.
Matt Young, OF		With Mather still struggling, Young might get more of a look. He'd be a fan favorite if he made the team.
Ed Lucas, IF		Lucas has slowed down at the plate, but he's still swinging the bat well. I'm going to keep him with a green arrow. I just love his versatility in the field, and he looks like a solid hitter as well. He could be this year's Brooks Conrad -- a utility guy who put up good minor league numbers but never got a chance before.
Wilkin Ramirez, OF		I drool at his tools. I would imagine the decision is between him and Mather for the backup outfield spot. The organization clearly likes both players, and it may come down to them wanting Ramirez to play every day in the minors so they can see what they have in him.

Arrow Key:
= Chance of making the team is good.
= Chance of making the team is bad.
= Chance of making the team is slightly better than 50-50.
= Chance of making the team is slightly worse than 50-50.

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Comments

Young

I hope he makes it. He deserves the backup outfield spot. I also believe Mather will make it also. he hasn’t done much this spring but i think he does. I also believe diory will make it because of his glove. I think with Mather and Hinske making it, the Braves will need Diory’s glove more than Conrad’s bat.

Admired as a saint. Defined by my rank. Combined with my strength. My time and my length.

by ArmyITSpec on Mar 18, 2011 8:31 AM EDT reply actions

BOOM goes the dynamite

Made me LOL! Proctor sucks plain and simple, what a great way to describe his recent outings

"I wasn’t thinking about it. That’s the worst celebration of all time. I didn’t know what to do. I got lost in the moment." - Brian McCann

by HansonManCrush on Mar 18, 2011 8:47 AM EDT via mobile reply actions

Does anyone have a link to the ST schedule?

I’m curious where this week’s games are…

by TBuzz on Mar 18, 2011 8:49 AM EDT via mobile reply actions

Braves.com, weirdly

It’s kind of like magic.

"…the umps in San Francisco somehow missed Brooks Conrad’s tag at second base on a sliding Buster Posey, who could’ve been called out from a houseboat in Sausalito."
-- Tommy Craggs

by duwanis on Mar 18, 2011 8:59 AM EDT up reply actions

It's been said before

But I’m sure the fact that Mather’s out of options gives him a spot, the team has been in love with him forever

"I wasn’t thinking about it. That’s the worst celebration of all time. I didn’t know what to do. I got lost in the moment." - Brian McCann

by HansonManCrush on Mar 18, 2011 8:50 AM EDT via mobile reply actions

Ya, i mean they went out of their way to get him off of waivers

and we’re in dire need of a righty bat off the bench

"My parents do a lot of things behind the scenes that go unnoticed"- Cam Newton, Heisman acceptance speech.

by TurnerTheBurner on Mar 18, 2011 4:46 PM EDT up reply actions

Conrad

Brooks makes it, based on his last season’s contributions…but not a real long leash given the richness of our minor league rosters.

by TomahawkGuy on Mar 18, 2011 8:54 AM EDT reply actions

What are the odds we'd just use him as a bat?

And, given that we’re basically expecting an injury or two at this point, would that be worth the bench slot?

Just thinking out loud here. And don’t get me wrong, I love Brooksy… but he really hasn’t shown me any improvement with his glove so far this spring.

"…the umps in San Francisco somehow missed Brooks Conrad’s tag at second base on a sliding Buster Posey, who could’ve been called out from a houseboat in Sausalito."
-- Tommy Craggs

by duwanis on Mar 18, 2011 9:02 AM EDT up reply actions

I agree

Now we have Mather and Hinske. Why would we need Brooks for his glove? We need defense and Diory provides that. We need a backup CF. Mather has “some” experience, but this is why I think we need Young. He can cover alot of ground. Who else do we have on the bench to backup Mclouth?

Admired as a saint. Defined by my rank. Combined with my strength. My time and my length.

by ArmyITSpec on Mar 18, 2011 9:07 AM EDT up reply actions

I think FW has said Heyward could do it, but

…Mather’s done it a few times in ST so far, and I haven’t had a problem with his play there. Depending on the timing and the situation, we may even be able to pull Schafer up from Gwinnett for a spell. I’m not too worried about backing up CF

"…the umps in San Francisco somehow missed Brooks Conrad’s tag at second base on a sliding Buster Posey, who could’ve been called out from a houseboat in Sausalito."
-- Tommy Craggs

by duwanis on Mar 18, 2011 9:11 AM EDT up reply actions

True but neither has Young's experience

Let Young backup Nate in CF. Mather will be Prado’s back in LF, along with Hinske, and let Hinske backup FF at 1st, with Mather as the alternate. Mather will also be Heywards backup

Admired as a saint. Defined by my rank. Combined with my strength. My time and my length.

by ArmyITSpec on Mar 18, 2011 9:16 AM EDT up reply actions

As versatile as Lucas is...

has he played CF before? Maybe Prado could slide over as well.

http://sportsandgrits.blogspot.com/

by Mr. Sanchez on Mar 18, 2011 12:17 PM EDT up reply actions

I would NOT trust Prado in Center

Lucas though is an interesting question, he can play several positions

Wilkin Ramirez is also really fast, I wonder if he could man center as well

"My parents do a lot of things behind the scenes that go unnoticed"- Cam Newton, Heisman acceptance speech.

by TurnerTheBurner on Mar 18, 2011 4:48 PM EDT up reply actions

Prado seems pretty smart and getting good reads on balls...

he’s used to playing up the middle at 2B and can move pretty well. I think he could do it as well or better than McLouth.

http://sportsandgrits.blogspot.com/

by Mr. Sanchez on Mar 18, 2011 5:26 PM EDT up reply actions

I'd trust Prado

naked and alone in a hotel room with my fiance for two weeks.

by thenightstallion on Mar 18, 2011 5:51 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs

My first rec

Totally worth it.

"…the umps in San Francisco somehow missed Brooks Conrad’s tag at second base on a sliding Buster Posey, who could’ve been called out from a houseboat in Sausalito."
-- Tommy Craggs

by duwanis on Mar 18, 2011 6:29 PM EDT up reply actions

I would like

Minor
Kimbrel Martinez
Lucas Brooksy Rameriz

but i believe Mather or Young (for his raw speed) will get the job

"I came to the Mets to be on a winning team"

-Chris Young

by BravosFanatic on Mar 18, 2011 9:07 AM EDT reply actions

I think Ramirez needs more AB in AAA

This is more likely Nate’s last year. We need Ramirez and Schafer seasoned for next year. Why rot away on the bench when u can get meaningful ABs in AAA

Admired as a saint. Defined by my rank. Combined with my strength. My time and my length.

by ArmyITSpec on Mar 18, 2011 9:12 AM EDT up reply actions

Even if Chipper doesn't get hurt

He’s going to be taking, what, 1-2 days off a week? And our backup plan for Chipper right now involves Prado playing 3B when he’s not out in left… and given the way Prado literally beat himself up by the end of the year last year, I think it’d be in our interest to give him some time off every now and then, too.

I’m not saying Ramirez wouldn’t get more ABs in AAA, but I don’t think our fourth OF is going to be “rotting on the bench” by any means. Just a guess, though.

"…the umps in San Francisco somehow missed Brooks Conrad’s tag at second base on a sliding Buster Posey, who could’ve been called out from a houseboat in Sausalito."
-- Tommy Craggs

by duwanis on Mar 18, 2011 9:15 AM EDT up reply actions

Well technically, Hinske is the 4th OF, but I agree with you.

by Atlantaspike on Mar 18, 2011 10:10 AM EDT up reply actions

It's all nomenclature at this point

but if Ramirez keeps playing the way he has in ST (somewhat dubious) I think I’d consider him the 4th OF, and save Hinske as a threat off the bench.

Of course, I’m not Fredi, so who knows what he’d do with it. :)

"…the umps in San Francisco somehow missed Brooks Conrad’s tag at second base on a sliding Buster Posey, who could’ve been called out from a houseboat in Sausalito."
-- Tommy Craggs

by duwanis on Mar 18, 2011 10:13 AM EDT up reply actions

agreed.. not at all

by willlinn on Mar 18, 2011 10:13 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions

Not really rotting

But why play every few days when you can get all the ABs in AAA and play everyday?

Admired as a saint. Defined by my rank. Combined with my strength. My time and my length.

by ArmyITSpec on Mar 18, 2011 9:18 AM EDT reply actions

reply fail

Admired as a saint. Defined by my rank. Combined with my strength. My time and my length.

by ArmyITSpec on Mar 18, 2011 9:18 AM EDT up reply actions

Brooksy

I’m not saying that Conrad should make the team…it’s just my belief that he will. I, too, agree that there are better options, especially defensively and versatility-wise.

by TomahawkGuy on Mar 18, 2011 9:18 AM EDT reply actions

I'm just trying to understand the reasoning

Let’s say you buy into the idea that he’s a fantastic hitter in late-and-close situations. I don’t get why that alone is worth giving up the bench slot, especially when our offense is looking (overall) to be much improved over last year. I’d be surprised if we had that many late-and-close situations this year anyway.

"…the umps in San Francisco somehow missed Brooks Conrad’s tag at second base on a sliding Buster Posey, who could’ve been called out from a houseboat in Sausalito."
-- Tommy Craggs

by duwanis on Mar 18, 2011 9:22 AM EDT up reply actions

Love your signature

By the way

Admired as a saint. Defined by my rank. Combined with my strength. My time and my length.

by ArmyITSpec on Mar 18, 2011 9:29 AM EDT up reply actions

HE WAS OUT

I’ve never been more upset with an umpire.

"…the umps in San Francisco somehow missed Brooks Conrad’s tag at second base on a sliding Buster Posey, who could’ve been called out from a houseboat in Sausalito."
-- Tommy Craggs

by duwanis on Mar 18, 2011 9:33 AM EDT up reply actions

I think that was the turning point of the series

Admired as a saint. Defined by my rank. Combined with my strength. My time and my length.

by ArmyITSpec on Mar 18, 2011 9:35 AM EDT up reply actions

Nah

Game 2 was an amazing game, and it put us right back in the thick of things. Game 3 was amazing for about half of an inning; that’s the one that really put us away, I think.

And I do mean amazing – Hinske’s homer in game 3 was the loudest I’d ever heard any crowd, much less the folks at the Ted.

"…the umps in San Francisco somehow missed Brooks Conrad’s tag at second base on a sliding Buster Posey, who could’ve been called out from a houseboat in Sausalito."
-- Tommy Craggs

by duwanis on Mar 18, 2011 9:38 AM EDT up reply actions

Right

For some reason i was thinking we lost that game. Yeah but you are right

Admired as a saint. Defined by my rank. Combined with my strength. My time and my length.

by ArmyITSpec on Mar 18, 2011 9:44 AM EDT up reply actions

It seemed like we were going to lose it

And then Glaus turned that DP… And Ankiel hit a home run…

Maybe that was the sign. Too many miracles in one game. ;)

"…the umps in San Francisco somehow missed Brooks Conrad’s tag at second base on a sliding Buster Posey, who could’ve been called out from a houseboat in Sausalito."
-- Tommy Craggs

by duwanis on Mar 18, 2011 9:55 AM EDT up reply actions

It was.

I remember picking my brother up and jumping up and down and we were trying to high five as we were doing this and he kept missing and slapping me in the face. Heck of a game.

by thenightstallion on Mar 18, 2011 11:20 AM EDT up reply actions

not many late and close situations?

Yeah right

by willlinn on Mar 18, 2011 10:18 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions

You think we're going to be in as many as last year?

With our pitching as good as it is and our offense considerably improved?

I’m not saying we’ll be winning all our games by 6 runs or anything… I just don’t think that we’re going to need to win 28 (or however many it was) games in our last at-bat this year.

"…the umps in San Francisco somehow missed Brooks Conrad’s tag at second base on a sliding Buster Posey, who could’ve been called out from a houseboat in Sausalito."
-- Tommy Craggs

by duwanis on Mar 18, 2011 10:23 AM EDT up reply actions

Worth pointing out

We were 5th in the league in runs scored last year. We were a pretty good offensive team, so we can’t absolutely guarantee that we’ll be better.

by Bronn on Mar 18, 2011 12:20 PM EDT up reply actions

If memory serves

We had quite a few blowout games, and were shut out a lot. The offense was kind of feast-or-famine. I’m thinking we’ll be more consistent this year, not that we’ll necessarily score more runs or place higher in comparison to other teams.

"…the umps in San Francisco somehow missed Brooks Conrad’s tag at second base on a sliding Buster Posey, who could’ve been called out from a houseboat in Sausalito."
-- Tommy Craggs

by duwanis on Mar 18, 2011 1:28 PM EDT up reply actions

ummmm, the difference between a 90+ win team versus a sub 80 win team depends exactly on how it reacts in late and close situations. Bullpen and a good bench determines many outcome over the course of a season. The average margin of victory in any season is usually between 1 and 1.5 runs.

by CharlotteChop on Mar 18, 2011 10:24 AM EDT up reply actions

See above

Our late-and-close performance was way above average last year, if I remember the statistics right. I think there were also a vast majority of those games (more than usual) where we were behind going into the 7th inning. I think:

1) We’ll be closer to average for late-and-close situations rather than being in them seemingly every other game, and
2) We’ll be ahead more often than behind by the time the late innings roll around.

That’s all I’m saying.

"…the umps in San Francisco somehow missed Brooks Conrad’s tag at second base on a sliding Buster Posey, who could’ve been called out from a houseboat in Sausalito."
-- Tommy Craggs

by duwanis on Mar 18, 2011 10:27 AM EDT up reply actions

Fair enough – valid points to me.

by CharlotteChop on Mar 18, 2011 10:46 AM EDT up reply actions

With only 3 spots available, I think Conrad and Lucas is an either/or. Diory will be on and it seems as if most think Mather will get the chance to start the season with the Major League club, especially with Shafer getting cut. Only one spot left means Conrad and Lucas can only be an either/or, which makes sense b/c they are basically the same player.

On the pitching front, has anyone watched much of Sherrill? I haven’t seen anything (other than posted stats) since early in camp. He showed up overweight and hasn’t had a good spring. Something tells me he won’t be on the roster at the end of the season, but that is just my hunch.

by CharlotteChop on Mar 18, 2011 9:47 AM EDT reply actions

*season, meaning regular season, not spring.

ESPN lists him at 210, Baseball-Reference at 230. I don’t think he’s lost 20 pounds since camp started so I guess he has gained 20 in a year. His out of shape, unconditioned self will probably end up hurt. I shouldnt dislike a guy before the season starts, but I am starting from the “dislike” side of the ledger with this guy.

by CharlotteChop on Mar 18, 2011 10:02 AM EDT up reply actions

With the arms we're polishing in Gwinnett

I don’t think we’d really use him much towards the end of the season anyway, even if he’s still on staff. Even then I think he’s there more for his experience than his current ability.

"…the umps in San Francisco somehow missed Brooks Conrad’s tag at second base on a sliding Buster Posey, who could’ve been called out from a houseboat in Sausalito."
-- Tommy Craggs

by duwanis on Mar 18, 2011 10:05 AM EDT up reply actions

Brooks, Lucas & Diory can't all make it...see ya Brooksy

Kimbrel, Minor
Ramirez, Mather, Diory

by Rick Z on Mar 18, 2011 9:47 AM EDT reply actions

Agree on Sherill

He hasn’t looked good, but he is LH & breathing, that makes a ML bullpen.

by Rick Z on Mar 18, 2011 9:48 AM EDT reply actions

I lol'd

“You’re left-handed? Can you fog this mirror? OK! You’ve made the team.”

"…the umps in San Francisco somehow missed Brooks Conrad’s tag at second base on a sliding Buster Posey, who could’ve been called out from a houseboat in Sausalito."
-- Tommy Craggs

by duwanis on Mar 18, 2011 9:57 AM EDT up reply actions

Ha!

I drool at his tools

by CarverM on Mar 18, 2011 10:23 AM EDT reply actions

Sherrill has a good chance of being the Whipping Boy this year. He’s fat, he’s a bit snooty looking, and there is no evidence that he is a major-league caliber pitcher anymore.

I was ok with the Linebrink and Sherrill signings only because we didn’t overpay in a market in which everyone was overpaying. However, I was not excited that the organization thought we needed “experienced” pitchers in the pen. We had plenty of in-house options to fill the 2 vacancies that are probably better pitchers (like Stephen Marek). Oh well…

Since my prediction for the roster included Marek, I will go with the following to finish off the 25:
1. Lucas- I think it’s going to come down to he and Diory, and Lucas has played 6 different positions this Spring.
2. Mather- Like Gondeee said, the Braves have wanted this guy for years and I think they’re going to give him at least a month or 2 of big leage at-bats.
3. Conrad- He doesn’t look like much this Spring but Conrad had an .811 ops last year. Being a switch hitter also helps his bid. Fredi, like Bobby, relies a lot on matchups.
4. Kimbrel- He’s in. Like Freddie from previous weeks, I’m not sure why he’s still listed.
5. Martinez- With Marek gone, “The Lisp” is the obvious choice. He’ll be the only “long relief” guy in the pen and the other candidates (Abreu and Asencio) are 1-inning guys. I didn’t include Kawakami because I don’t believe the Braves think he’s a real person.

Bubba Sparxxx: It's gettin' Uggla...IN HERE! UP IN HERE!

by ryan c on Mar 18, 2011 10:26 AM EDT reply actions

With 2 solid lefties, if Kimbrel becomes close, we won’t need The Whipping Boy after the all start break. Marek can pitch (I know he’s RHP), and Sherrill is only going to be needed for a maximum of three hitters on most nights. Hopefully Sherill is on a short leash and if he is walking people all over the bases and can’t get LHH out, then hopefully his fat, snooty butt will be gone sooner than later. If he turns out to be a quality LOOGY, then fine I will be ok to eat my crow.

by CharlotteChop on Mar 18, 2011 10:52 AM EDT up reply actions

All Star* break

by CharlotteChop on Mar 18, 2011 10:52 AM EDT up reply actions

I think three...

hitters is an awful stretch of what he’ll be needed for. 1 or 2 guys max, and both should be LH if it’s two. That’s literally all that should be asked of him.

With Venters and Kimbrel manning the 8th and 9th most nights and our rotation, we shouldn’t really expect Sherrill or Linebrink to go much further than that. Moylan will probably get a full inning here and there, but the long reliever, Venters, and Kimbrel should be the only people seeing an inning or more with any regularity. Maybe they throw a little more in a blowout occurring for either direction, but it’s unlikely on the whole.

-C

It’s rough to sit through these games and not have someone that can’t hit a Ball?

by cthabeerman on Mar 18, 2011 11:36 AM EDT up reply actions

Clarify...

By “they” in that last statement, I mean Sherrill and Linebrink. I also don’t expect O’Flaherty to face more than 2 guys in an appearance, with a few exceptions.

It’s rough to sit through these games and not have someone that can’t hit a Ball?

by cthabeerman on Mar 18, 2011 11:38 AM EDT up reply actions

If that many od our relievers are only facing 1 or 2 batters, won’t they all be pitching about every day?

"It's like winning a war...you need arms and money." Fredi G

by bighop on Mar 18, 2011 11:44 AM EDT up reply actions

Not if the starters go 7, which should happen at least 3 times every 5 games.

by Broccoman on Mar 18, 2011 11:49 AM EDT up reply actions

agreed – my “max of three” is based on a left-right-left matchup with Fredi not “overusing” like Bobby and making these LOOGY guys get a RH hitter out every now and then.

by CharlotteChop on Mar 18, 2011 11:53 AM EDT up reply actions

One of the things that has utterly destroyed our bullpen is the “1-run game”. Fredi, like Bobby, if put to the task, will use only the relievers he trusts in high leverage situations. Hopefully, with the addition of Uggla, a healthy Chipper and Prado, a functioning McLouth, and Salt-n-Pepa manning the right side, the Braves margin of victory will be higher this year which, in turn, will allow Fredi to use the relievers that have rotted in the past. This, in turn, will hopefully create a bullpen where all 7 arms can be put into any situation after the 6th and 7th men gain trust by sucessfully mopping up games.

Bubba Sparxxx: It's gettin' Uggla...IN HERE! UP IN HERE!

by ryan c on Mar 18, 2011 12:26 PM EDT up reply actions

EOF...

has been better vs. lefties the last few years, but his numbers vs. righties aren’t bad either. He’s certainly not Sherrill or Moylan like against the opposite hand. If I had to guess on roles, you’ve got Kimbrel and Venters splitting closer and the 8th. Moylan and Sherrill work as ROOGY and LOOGY, with Linebrink and EOF as the primary set up men in front of Kimbrel and Venters, with a long/junk man in Proctor, Martinez, Ascencio, or KK. Looking at their splits though, EOF isn’t really a LOOGY as he’s just been an effective reliever all around. It’s Moylan and Sherrill that to me, would be the 1 or 2 batter types and selectively used against like-handed hitters only.

http://sportsandgrits.blogspot.com/

by Mr. Sanchez on Mar 18, 2011 12:23 PM EDT up reply actions

Thank you

O’Flaherty isn’t amazing or anything, but he’s really solid, and he doesn’t get enough credit. He’s a full inning reliever in my opinion as well.

by gilley on Mar 18, 2011 12:26 PM EDT up reply actions

He is solid vs. righties

by Braves24 on Mar 18, 2011 3:31 PM EDT up reply actions

i feel the vision on these posts is not very comprehensive...

For example, yes it is better to have a backup cf than have heyward slide over (who will be better in center than mather), but is it better to have young than cords production from last year considering heyward could play cf?

And w lucas and hinske we can cover the if, conrads glove is entirely irrelevant.

by willlinn on Mar 18, 2011 10:28 AM EDT via mobile reply actions

but is it better to have young than cords production from last year considering heyward could play cf

Elaborate please

Admired as a saint. Defined by my rank. Combined with my strength. My time and my length.

by ArmyITSpec on Mar 18, 2011 10:31 AM EDT up reply actions

I'm not disputing its relevancy

It’s just that if we put him on the roster saying we’re only going to use his bat, we’ve got a 24.5 man roster instead of a 25 man roster. Wouldn’t the team be better served to use someone who can also provide a serviceable defensive substitution?

"…the umps in San Francisco somehow missed Brooks Conrad’s tag at second base on a sliding Buster Posey, who could’ve been called out from a houseboat in Sausalito."
-- Tommy Craggs

by duwanis on Mar 18, 2011 10:31 AM EDT up reply actions

What makes you so sure...

That Lucas’s glove is considerably better than Conrad’s?? He may play a ton of positions, but everything I’ve read has said he’s below average at all of them.

Just playing Devil’s advocate a bit here…versatile doesn’t always equate to effective.

-C

It’s rough to sit through these games and not have someone that can’t hit a Ball?

by cthabeerman on Mar 18, 2011 11:42 AM EDT up reply actions

You might even argue

that versatility implies a lack of effectiveness at any one position.

I have no idea if statistics back that idea up, but I imagine that if you had a great shortstop, you wouldn’t be starting him at 1B or RF to see how he plays there.

"…the umps in San Francisco somehow missed Brooks Conrad’s tag at second base on a sliding Buster Posey, who could’ve been called out from a houseboat in Sausalito."
-- Tommy Craggs

by duwanis on Mar 18, 2011 11:44 AM EDT up reply actions

It's been a noted trend in UZR, I think

Applied to Martin Prado, for one. When you’re playing a ton of positions, your defensive effectiveness drops. You tend to look better defensively when you have an established position. Prado’s UZR improved when he became our full-time second baseman. Of course, then we moved him out of the position for a worse defensively player….

by Bronn on Mar 18, 2011 12:26 PM EDT up reply actions

It sounds like you're saying that people get worse when they move around

Where I was suggesting that it might be the other way around – people get moved around because they’re not great at their original position. Prado in this case would be an exception, since he was moved for political reasons more than anything else.

"…the umps in San Francisco somehow missed Brooks Conrad’s tag at second base on a sliding Buster Posey, who could’ve been called out from a houseboat in Sausalito."
-- Tommy Craggs

by duwanis on Mar 18, 2011 1:35 PM EDT up reply actions

Maybe they see him as close to average defensively, but want his batting average and OB% at the plate

"It's like winning a war...you need arms and money." Fredi G

by bighop on Mar 18, 2011 11:47 AM EDT up reply actions

The last 3 spots

It is my impression of Frank Wren that he is not going to give the last spot on the bench to someone simply because of what he did last year when others are clearly outplaying him. So unless he starts hitting, I don’t think Brooks Conrad makes the cut. I’m guessing, based on how guys are playing and comments made by Frank, that the last 3 spots are going to be Mather, Lucas, and Hernandez. Conrad, Young, and Ramirez still have a shot but I think they are on the outside looking in as of right now. Diory would be the primary backup at SS and 2B while Lucas would be the primary RH pinch-hitter. Mather would be the backup OF at all three spots.

by jrhode on Mar 18, 2011 10:41 AM EDT reply actions

I think it will be Conrad, simply b/c he is a switch hitter. I think, and correct me if I’m wrong, the Braves will have no LH bats on the bench if Conrad is cut.

by CharlotteChop on Mar 18, 2011 11:00 AM EDT up reply actions

Hinske is probably the LHPH

"It's like winning a war...you need arms and money." Fredi G

by bighop on Mar 18, 2011 11:01 AM EDT up reply actions

zoink, i knew I was missing one. Of course, I had Hinske down as RH so double zoink. How could I forget his LH HR in the NLDS. Brain Fart Friday I guess. When does hoops start?

by CharlotteChop on Mar 18, 2011 11:04 AM EDT up reply actions

Kimbrel and Martinez for the pen
Diory, Mather and Young for the bench

I’ve been real impressed by Lucas, but Diory has been good too and is already on the 40 man roster. Mather will be the Diaz replacement, occasionally playing in the field, PHing vs lefties, Young backs up CF and LF, pinch runs and pinch hits late. With Prado playing 3B a good bit, having Hinske, Mather and Young available for the OF doesn’t seem like overkill to me.

"It's like winning a war...you need arms and money." Fredi G

by bighop on Mar 18, 2011 11:08 AM EDT reply actions

+1

My thoughts exactly

Admired as a saint. Defined by my rank. Combined with my strength. My time and my length.

by ArmyITSpec on Mar 18, 2011 11:10 AM EDT up reply actions

It’s always a good thing when the Army agrees with you

"It's like winning a war...you need arms and money." Fredi G

by bighop on Mar 18, 2011 11:11 AM EDT up reply actions

Lol

Naw usually when the Army agrees, that means you are making no sense

Admired as a saint. Defined by my rank. Combined with my strength. My time and my length.

by ArmyITSpec on Mar 18, 2011 11:15 AM EDT up reply actions

LOL

"It's like winning a war...you need arms and money." Fredi G

by bighop on Mar 18, 2011 11:16 AM EDT up reply actions

You mentioned Schafer and Ramirez in AAA getting ready for next year, I cannot agree more. If, and it’s a good sized if, they develop, the Braves are home free next year.

"It's like winning a war...you need arms and money." Fredi G

by bighop on Mar 18, 2011 11:15 AM EDT up reply actions

Yes

Unless the Braves make a serious acquistion (cant spell) for an outfielder, I see heyward, schafer, and ramirez as our OF next year. So i think they need a full season of AAA under their belt. Not saying they don’t deserve a call up at some point, but they need the time at AAA

Admired as a saint. Defined by my rank. Combined with my strength. My time and my length.

by ArmyITSpec on Mar 18, 2011 11:22 AM EDT up reply actions

this

by Braves24 on Mar 18, 2011 3:32 PM EDT up reply actions

I still don't see what the Braves see in Mather.

I’d rather have just about any of the other bench candidates than him. He was OK in AAA last year, but in 2009 he was AWFUL in the minors. And his 2008 MLB experience was basically a carbon copy of Brooks Conrad’s 2010 (without the end-of-season error binge).

It makes a ton of sense to have Matt Young on the team instead, given that he can play both CF and in the IF. Who else does that? He can be our new Infante. Plus, he really deserves a shot in the bigs at this point. Yet I don’t hear much talk about him from the Braves folks.

Lucas as the backup SS, obviously. For the bullpen, either Martinez or Ascencio would be just fine by me.

"Yeah, and I have an enchanted jock strap." -- Karl Karlson

by Jacob Peterson on Mar 18, 2011 11:31 AM EDT reply actions

I remember hearing Mather is the RHPH replacing Diaz, his splits were posted in another thread, looked pretty good to me.

"It's like winning a war...you need arms and money." Fredi G

by bighop on Mar 18, 2011 11:36 AM EDT up reply actions

You have to strongly regress split stats. I doubt he has a sufficient sample for us to declare that he’s officially a left basher.

by Bronn on Mar 18, 2011 12:35 PM EDT up reply actions

303/.392/.534 in his last 2 healthy years against LHP. That’s really strong. Sure, it’s only 204 plate appearances, but it’s still pretty awe-inspiring numbers.

Bubba Sparxxx: It's gettin' Uggla...IN HERE! UP IN HERE!

by ryan c on Mar 18, 2011 1:42 PM EDT up reply actions

2009 for Mather was a wrist injury...

so it kind of has an excuse for it’s awfulness.

http://sportsandgrits.blogspot.com/

by Mr. Sanchez on Mar 18, 2011 12:24 PM EDT up reply actions

I don’t see how that’s relevant.

/Schafer’d

by Bronn on Mar 18, 2011 12:35 PM EDT up reply actions

Mather deserves a chance, but he needs to get going.

I’d be willing to cut him if he isn’t producing and let Matt Young take it.

by Broccoman on Mar 18, 2011 11:51 AM EDT reply actions

I really think they will both make the team. Hinske or Mather at 1B, Prado at 3B, Diory at SS or 2B, Mather and Young for the OF, we have LH and RH PHers and a fast PR

"It's like winning a war...you need arms and money." Fredi G

by bighop on Mar 18, 2011 11:55 AM EDT up reply actions

Mather, Lucas and Young. That covers every position on the field, provides a right handed backup for Freeman and a right handed platoon partner for Hinske (when Chipper’s hurt), and we get a very speedy Matt Young on the bench for when we need a pinch runner. These are the guys we need to carry on our bench.

by gilley on Mar 18, 2011 12:33 PM EDT reply actions