We have heard a lot of extreme statements thrown around about the ending of the Bobby Cox "regime." So has Freddi Gonzalez. If the relationship that he and Bobby had is half as strong as it is painted by DOB then he has probably thought a lot about it too. But they are two different coaches with two different teams. SSS be damned I think we should debrief on the Freddi Gonzalez era thus far.

This is in response to a comment made by the excellent royhobbs who state that he was pleased with Freddi's management in all 6 games. While I don't agree with the absolute way that roy said it I don't think that Fredi has been "bad" or that the things I'm going to highlight are in any way damning or even proof of anything at all. This is merely a discussion of something we haven't been able to discuss in nearly 2 decades.

First of all, and I know that many will disagree with this point, I didn't like when he took Derek Lowe out at 5 2/3rds innings. Sure106 is a lot of pitches but I didn't like when he took Derek Lowe out especially since he looked better as he got in a grove. Not to mention that Derek asked to keep pitching.

Also, I wanted Freddi to get thrown out today. Sure I was spoiled by The Bobby Cox show but Brian was livid and the manager needs to respond to that as much as the fact that it was an obvious blown call.

Not to mention batting Heyward 6th (stir the pot much?)

Part of Bobby being a Player's manager was extreme confidence (in many ways, in the team, in his players, in his choices etc.) Part of that comes from experience and age but I really want Fredi to stop being so casual with his managing. It seems that he is trying to do the "politically correct" thing instead of relying on his knowledge of a group of ballplayers. Ask me to give you more specifics than above about the matter and I will have nothing for you but these are my observations. Granted that it is only 6 games.

Thoughts?