GDT #23, 4/26/'14: Reds (Leake) vs. Braves (Hale)

[UNCBlue012]

I'm going to go ahead and post this now since I'll be at the game tonight and I've got a decent drive ahead of me! Last night's win was huge, absolutely huge. To get the lead we did, see a SP struggle a bit and the BP hold onto it (well for the most part), was something I've needed to see all year. I don't know what it is going on with Avilan, but the rest of the BP have been nails as of lately, most notably Walden and Carp. Even with Kimbrel struggling a bit, he's done a great job of recording the save.

Offensively, I was pleased to see everyone put a little bit of work in for the team, well except for Uggla. Heyward has been making much better contact as of plate, BJ's swing has been much better, Freeman came back strong after he got his eye-situation figured out and JUP continues to look great.

Gotta keep moving! Tonight will be a tough one with the rookie on the mound. AS ALWAYS.... GO BRAVOS!

Projected lineup:
1. Heyward
2. BJ
3. Freeman
4. JUP
5. Gattis
6. Ugggghhla
7. CJoh
8. Simmons
9. (Da) Hale

[The Chosen One]

At least you're learning how to do the GDT titles. :p

Every now and then you can write the timestamp on there like 7pm EST, or if Fredi switches the lineup or rests guys you can just put Heyward out Schafer in.

[Millwood1Hitter]

Don't understand why we're going with Hale, he's gonna get his clock cleaned tonight by this Reds lineup. And I'm sure Uggla gonna make some stupid defensive miscue that will really cause the floodgates to open.

[UNCBlue012]

Don't understand why we're going with Hale, he's gonna get his clock cleaned tonight by this Reds lineup. And I'm sure Uggla gonna make some stupid defensive miscue that will really cause the floodgates to open.
Yeah, I'm a bit worried with Hale playing a hot-hitting team now as well. I pray the offense will be just as hot or the BP be ready if need be! Either way, baseball is an awesome game and you never know what will happen!

[Krovahn]

Don't understand why we're going with Hale, he's gonna get his clock cleaned tonight by this Reds lineup. And I'm sure Uggla gonna make some stupid defensive miscue that will really cause the floodgates to open.
Yeah, me either. We have a ton of other pitchers who are healthy, good, and ready to be put into this spot in the rotation today. ...Oh, wait.

[thethe]

I feel like Hale is being underrated around these parts.

[rico43]

Don't understand why we're going with Hale, he's gonna get his clock cleaned tonight by this Reds lineup. And I'm sure Uggla gonna make some stupid defensive miscue that will really cause the floodgates to open.

After this post, this thread has nowhere to go but up.

[rico43]

I feel like Hale is being underrated around these parts.

+1 (old school thanks)

[thethe]

I'm going to post this article in here again just to re-iterate the point but Hale has potential to be a solid major league pitcher. i think his absolute ceiling is a #3 but having him start while giving Minor/Floyd extra time to work out some kinds (Its still ST to them) is a great thing for this club to do.

http://www.fangraphs.com/fantasy/potential-starting-pitcher-strikeout-rate-surgers/

[bravesnumberone]

Even if Hale gets knocked around, it wouldn't kill our offense to score a lot of runs. The guy hasn't pitched that awful. He's kept us in games.

[Heyward]

Don't understand why we're going with Hale, he's gonna get his clock cleaned tonight by this Reds lineup. And I'm sure Uggla gonna make some stupid defensive miscue that will really cause the floodgates to open.

And who do you suggest pitch instead?

Minor/Floyd arent ready.

Beachy/Meds need TJ.

And there is no one left.

I can certainly see him get rocked tonight but we literally have no other options right now.

[MadduxFanII]

Looks like UNC's predicted lineup was spot on.

I'd really like to see Fredi get Pastornicky a start or two. If he's just going to be here to pinch hit against a lefty once every two weeks and pinch run for Gattis in the late innings he should really be back in Gwinnett getting regular at-bats.

[cajunrevenge]

Can we split the game threads? One for people to root for the braves and one for those just want to be buzz killington.

[Dalyn]

Can we split the game threads? One for people to root for the braves and one for those just want to be buzz killington.

We would need three. You forgot one for the people who complain about the complainers.

[cajunrevenge]

And who do you suggest pitch instead?

Minor/Floyd arent ready.

Beachy/Meds need TJ.

And there is no one left.

I can certainly see him get rocked tonight but we literally have no other options right now.

I think he would prefer to forfeit the game.

[cajunrevenge]

We would need three. You forgot one for the people who complain about the complainers.

You don't find it ridiculous to complain about a 5th starter who so far has an era under 3 while the team is 15-7? Milwood would complain if we win the world series in 6 games instead of 4.

[Heyward]

You don't find it ridiculous to complain about a 5th starter who so far has an era under 3 while the team is 15-7? Milwood would complain if we win the world series in 6 games instead of 4.

I know i cant be talking but jesus, he's always whining over something.

[Dalyn]

You don't find it ridiculous to complain about a 5th starter who so far has an era under 3 while the team is 15-7? Milwood would complain if we win the world series in 6 games instead of 4.

Sure. I was just saying...

[AerchAngel]

Standard response to those who complain about players playing or starting pitcher is:

Okay we forfeit the game because we can't win so you can't watch, are you happy?

[TURBO]

I want a GDT just for myself.

[stpeteirish]

Looks like UNC's predicted lineup was spot on.

I'd really like to see Fredi get Pastornicky a start or two. If he's just going to be here to pinch hit against a lefty once every two weeks and pinch run for Gattis in the late innings he should really be back in Gwinnett getting regular at-bats.

somebody's got to be the 25th man, might as well be Pastornicky. He won't be in this role all year, if he is its a problem. But for a month or two its OK.

[stpeteirish]

Reds lineup Hamilton CF
Votto 1b
Phillips 2b
Bruce RF
Ludwick LF
Pena C
Soto 3b
Cozart SS
Leake P

Injuries mounting up for the Reds

[The Chosen One]

I want to see Hamilton challenge Simmons tonight. Hopefully he can hit a grounder somewhere near short.

[NinersSBChamps]

I want to see an Uggla-baseball challenge. Hopefully someone hits a grounder near second base.

[bravesnumberone]

Awesome unis.

Pants off.

Ready set go.

[NinersSBChamps]

Can't wait until Hale doesn't pitch for us anymore.

[Mrs. Meta]

My first real Braves game of the year with Mlb TV and I get to see Hale pitch?

Sheeeeeeeeeeit.

Howdy, y'all!

[bravesnumberone]

Growing pains. Gotta learn to put teams away with 2 outs.

[NinersSBChamps]

Growing pains. Gotta learn to put teams away with 2 outs.

Let him learn at AAA. Now where games actually count.

[Mrs. Meta]

So Beej has a higher average than Jason so far? Daaaaaaaaaayum.

[bravesnumberone]

Congrats BJ

[NinersSBChamps]

So Beej has a higher average than Jason so far? Daaaaaaaaaayum.

Everyone has a higher average than him.

[Enscheff]

Heyward is about 6" closer to the plate lately, and is hitting better. Coincidence?

[Mrs. Meta]

BJ with a rocket to center to tie it up for his 1,000th hit!

[Mrs. Meta]

Everyone has a higher average than him.

He probably just doesn't want us to have to pay him too much money - gotta love the kid.

[bravesnumberone]

FREEEDDDDDDIEEEEEEEEE

[The Chosen One]

COCKTHRUST!!!

[NinersSBChamps]

Freddie is sex!

[Mrs. Meta]

How did Freeman hit that out?

Lolwow.

[NinersSBChamps]

BJ with a rocket to center to tie it up for his 1,000th hit!

Huh? BJ had an infield single.

[nsacpi]

Fredito! On pace to hit over 40 HRs.

[Mrs. Meta]

Huh? BJ had an infield single.

Twas a jokelol

[NinersSBChamps]

Heyward is about 6" closer to the plate lately, and is hitting better. Coincidence?

Three pitch strikeout to start the game off. He is hitting awful. I guess awful is a step up from terrible?

[NinersSBChamps]

Fredito! On pace to hit over 40 HRs.

But he has no power.

[The Chosen One]

I get to watch Brayan Pena catch an entire game, on the other team.

YES YES YES YES YES.

Right away anybody can notice why Pena is a terrible receiver.

[Mrs. Meta]

I get to watch Brayan Pena catch an entire game, on the other team.

YES YES YES YES YES.

Right away anybody can notice why Pena is a terrible receiver.

Weren't Brayan Pena and Yunel Escobar extras in Brokeback Mountain?

Lol :icwudt:

[Mrs. Meta]

Oh, Gattis...not the plate discipline of the gods there.

[bravesnumberone]

Is there any way the Bobs from Office Space can "fix the glitch" and get Uggla off the payroll?

[NinersSBChamps]

Going to need at least two more innings like the bottom of the first to have a shot at winning.

[bravesnumberone]

Much better, Hale.

[The Chosen One]

Going to need at least two more innings like the bottom of the first to have a shot at winning.

If we win 2-1 can I ban you for a week?

[thethe]

Going to need at least two more innings like the bottom of the first to have a shot at winning.

Tell us how you really feel about David Hale.

[NinersSBChamps]

If we win 2-1 can I ban you for a week?

You can do whatever you want. You are the owner. I do like how you ask my permission though.

[bravesnumberone]

We are absolutely ****ing brutal at bunting. Do they just not coach that **** anymore?

[TURBO]

We suck at bunting. ugh

[Mrs. Meta]

Going to need at least two more innings like the bottom of the first to have a shot at winning.

So...you're more of a "the glass is half empty and possibly full of cyanide" kinda guy? :icwudt:

[Mrs. Meta]

We suck at bunting. ugh

So...I see this has been a trend so far this season?

Neat!

[Heyward]

Heyward is about 6" closer to the plate lately, and is hitting better. Coincidence?

Looks a little closer, not sure if thats why.

Some bad luck too.

[USMA76]

On the suckage of our bunting, does anyone remember how well Maddux, Glavine, and Smoltz executed sacrifice bunts? Fundamental baseball then; not so much now.

[bravesnumberone]

Heyward is bad. Simmons should have already stolen second before Hale bunted, too. It's Brayan Pena.

[Heyward]

I get to watch Brayan Pena catch an entire game, on the other team.

YES YES YES YES YES.

Right away anybody can notice why Pena is a terrible receiver.

You're at the game?

[bravesnumberone]

On the suckage of our bunting, does anyone remember how well Maddux, Glavine, and Smoltz executed sacrifice bunts? Fundamental baseball then; not so much now.

They all hit reasonably well, too. It was nice seeing them take pride in their bunting/hitting.

[AerchAngel]

Is it me or do you all think that Heyward swings at ball four every time on a full count.

[bravesnumberone]

Is it me or do you all think that Heyward swings at ball four every time on a full count.

Seems that way. They may as well just put his number in the dirt around second base.

[Mrs. Meta]

Freeman's footspeed got us the out there!

[Heyward]

Is it me or do you all think that Heyward swings at ball four every time on a full count.

He stands too far away from the plate, teams can just pitch him outside and he grounds out to 2B.

It does seem so though.

[Tapate50]

Can't wait until Hale doesn't pitch for us anymore.

This is the most ridiculous comment in a long line of sky is falling crap from you. Give it a rest. Hale has done nothing but out pitch expectations so far...

[bravesnumberone]

Hale's ERA at 2.95. I know some of you thumb your nose at the stat, but I don't think we can ask much more than that.

[thethe]

Man, this guy Hale can't get anyone out. Wait, he IS getting guys out.

[bravesnumberone]

Ah frack you, Ludwick. Aren't you supposed to always be hurt?

[Heyward]

Ugh

[thethe]

APRIL!

[bravesnumberone]

Aprilness

[Heyward]

CATCH THAT.

JUP!

[Ampere]

Is it me or do you all think that Heyward swings at ball four every time on a full count.


It's just you. Including this last at bat, Heyward has had a full count 21 times this year. He has walked 7 of those times and also has 6 hits. He has now struck out five times on a full count.

[bravesnumberone]

Catch that, Lugnut.

[thethe]

GATTIS!

[Heyward]

OSO

[Tapate50]

Love how EG pulled those hands inside to get the barrel on it. Very impressive

[bravesnumberone]

Uggla needs to be hitting 7 or 8.

[thethe]

I really hope the DH comes to the NL. Gattis would hit 45 homeruns as a DH.

[thethe]

Uggla needs to be hitting 7 or 8.

Really we need him not to be batting at all.

[UNCBlue012]

SO FAR SO GOOD

[thethe]

SO FAR SO GOOD

I hope you make every game thread for the rest of the season!

[zitothebrave]

Uggla needs to be hitting 7 or 8.

I prefer him hitting 10th.

[Heyward]

Oh, Hale.

[Heyward]

Uggla needs to be benched.

FYP :eusa_dance:

[Heyward]

SO FAR SO GOOD

Dont jinx us.

[bravesnumberone]

I really hope the DH comes to the NL. Gattis would hit 45 homeruns as a DH.

And we wouldn't have to suffer through our pitchers bunting.

[thethe]

Hale is good at not being bad.

[Heyward]

Simba

[zitothebrave]

I really hope the DH comes to the NL. Gattis would hit 45 homeruns as a DH.

Gattis as a great one tool player with a few other average tools. He reminds me offensively of Adam Jones with more power and less speed.

[bravesnumberone]

BTW if anyone hasn't seen that documentary on Gattis yet, I highly recommend.

[thethe]

Gattis as a great one tool player with a few other average tools. He reminds me offensively of Adam Jones with more power and less speed.

Gattis is going to improve. Its very early but he is becoming more selective at the plate and still hitting lots of homeruns. Nscapi may be right. Gattis could get some MVP votes in the future one day and that day might be this year.

[thethe]

BTW if anyone hasn't seen that documentary on Gattis yet, I highly recommend.

Is it available online?

[bravesnumberone]

Fresh Prince of BABIP

[bravesnumberone]

Is it available online?

Not really sure, but after seeing it, it's impossible not to root for the guy.

[AerchAngel]

Not really sure, but after seeing it, it's impossible not to root for the guy.

Probably the most humble of all the current Braves and then some.

He knows he has a gift and was giving a second chance and he is making the most of it.

[bravesnumberone]

Doesn't get any better than that with the soldier being reunited with his family.

[thethe]

Stop sucking Hale.

[keithlaw]

Stop sucking Hale.

braves prospect succeeding in the majors? thats unpossible

[cajunrevenge]

Just got done with my hooker. Good to see the braves were rounding the based at the same time.

[thethe]

Man, this guy is a scrub. He is lucky he is facing bums like Joey Votto to help his numbers.

[Tapate50]

Hale with 2 hits allowed so far and used 10 pitches to get through the meat of the order. What a barrel of suck huh?

[The Chosen One]

Just got done with my hooker. Good to see the braves were rounding the based at the same time.
Your name is Cary... Were you taking a bump with that hooker in the booth?

[USMA76]

Fredi is such an idiot for trotting Hale out there every fifth day.

[The Chosen One]

Fredi is such an idiot for trotting Hale out there every fifth day.

Even bigger idiot for letting him go back out after the first.

[bravesnumberone]

Take all Fredi complaints to the Fredi rant thread.

[TURBO]

Why do the Mets have to catch the Braves first before they get to 90 wins? Chip said it was so.

[keithlaw]

fredis such an idot he should stop killing all those promiscuous teens

[Mrs. Meta]

Just got done with my hooker. Good to see the braves were rounding the based at the same time.

...BUT HOW WAS YOUR ORGASM?!

[The Chosen One]

fredis such an idot he should stop killing all those promiscuous teens

Too soon.

[cajunrevenge]

Your name is Cary... Were you taking a bump with that hooker in the booth?

No this was not a strip club. The went to last nast night I blew 300 bucks in 1 hour and didn't even get laid. Decent hooker only costs me 220 plus shes coming with me to see captain america tonight. Amd I don't do drugs sir, drugs are bad mmmkay.

[The Chosen One]

That's nasty.

-Cleveland

[The Chosen One]

Chip Caray is loving all of these whiffs.

[cajunrevenge]

I feel like spending the money I would use to see glavine go into the hall of fame on a whore feels appropriate.

[Heyward]

Let Hale go 1 more or call it a game?

[The Chosen One]

Oh Hale yes.

[nsacpi]

Hail to Hale!

[Mrs. Meta]

Chip Caray is loving all of these whiffs.

Wonder if some of those sweet whiffs are...coming...from joe simpson?

[Heyward]

Take all Fredi complaints to the Fredi rant thread.

You dont understand sarcasm, do you?

[The Chosen One]

I feel like spending the money I would use to see glavine go into the hall of fame on a whore feels appropriate.

But there's also Coxy and Doggy.

[AerchAngel]

Don't understand why we're going with Hale, he's gonna get his clock cleaned tonight by this Reds lineup. And I'm sure Uggla gonna make some stupid defensive miscue that will really cause the floodgates to open.

Millwood, your thoughts?

[thethe]

Lets give the pen a rest. If Hale gets through the next inning with 100 ptiches let him pitch the ninth.

[The Chosen One]

Millwood, your thoughts?

Milly is the good luck charm.

[bravesnumberone]

You dont understand sarcasm, do you?

I think it is you who don't understand sarcasm...

[TURBO]

I think it is you who don't understand sarcasm...

hahah. My exact thoughts when I read Heywards post. Too funny

[Mrs. Meta]

In my own personal small sample size, Simmons does look better at the plate this year.

[The Chosen One]

In my own personal small sample size, Simmons does look better at the plate this year.

I agree. If only we had some type of radio show for people to call in and discuss it.

[cajunrevenge]

But there's also Coxy and Doggy.

Honestly I am more interested just in meeting up with other braves fans. I love me some Cox but Smoltz and Chipper are mustvattend events for me. If not for Glavine going Benedict on me I would hitchhike if I had to.

[Heyward]

I would of pulled him

[Mrs. Meta]

I agree. If only we had some type of radio show for people to call in and discuss it.

I know, right?!

Tentatively planning the debut (finally) for next Sat.

The big surprise will be that Patio will be co-hosting!

[The Chosen One]

Honestly I am more interested just in meeting up with other braves fans. I love me some Cox but Smoltz and Chipper are mustvattend events for me. If not for Glavine going Benedict on me I would hitchhike if I had to.

Tommy is putting an A on his cap not NYM. So forgive him. And without him we don't brag about '95. :Alone:

[Heyward]

Thomas and Carp getting loose.

[Mrs. Meta]

Honestly I am more interested just in meeting up with other braves fans. I love me some Cox

:YDS:

[cajunrevenge]

My gameday must be messesd up. It says the reds only have 1 run. Surely its supposed to be 10 runs. Do your job mlb app!

[Mrs. Meta]

Tommy is putting an A on his cap not NYM. So forgive him. And without him we don't brag about '95. :Alone:

Oh, Greg...

[bravesnumberone]

My gameday must be messesd up. It says the reds only have 1 run. Surely its supposed to be 10 runs. Do your job mlb app!

:fredi:

[cajunrevenge]

:YDS:

I really like Wood too, he is a real solid member of the rotation.

[bravesnumberone]

I say let Hale go back out there for the 9th.

[Heyward]

Uggla!

Alright, i'd let him start the 9th unless we put up some runs here.

But would have someone warmed up if someone reaches.

[cajunrevenge]

:fredi:

Where is his cap. Did he tip it right off his head?

[The Chosen One]

Don't worry. Cinncy is going to torch Hale for one run and run him out of the game after 8 innings.

-Millwood before the first pitch.

[TURBO]

http://www.wunderground.com/data/wximagenew/b/bpwh/264.gif

[bravesnumberone]

Who the Hale is this guy haranging his wood around that minor Julio Santana?

[The Chosen One]

:facepalm:

[bravesnumberone]

:facepalm:

:fredi:

[thethe]

Not sure why you would use Kimbrel in a three run game when your starting pitcher is dominating. Let him rest Freddie!

[Heyward]

Looks like Kimbrel is ready :Bunchie1:

[cajunrevenge]

Tommy is putting an A on his cap not NYM. So forgive him. And without him we don't brag about '95. :Alone:

I don't acknoledge anything done by the yankees so as far as I am concerned the braves won multiple championships. Yankees accomplishments are right up there with bonds' s home run record in terms of illigitimacy.

[bravesnumberone]

Zero need for this, honestly. But whatever.

[TURBO]

I don't acknoledge anything done by the yankees so as far as I am concerned the braves won kultiple championships. Yankees accomplishments are right up there with bonds' s home run record in terms of illigitimacy.

http://cdn.memegenerator.net/instances/250x250/49005105.jpg

[gtcway]

Not sure why you would use Kimbrel in a three run game when your starting pitcher is dominating. Let him rest Freddie!
I say let Kimbrel work out his kinks with a 3 run lead and not a one run lead or tied game tomorrow.

[Heyward]

I'd keep Hale in, but....

[cajunrevenge]

Not sure why you would use Kimbrel in a three run game when your starting pitcher is dominating. Let him rest Freddie!

My fantasy team begs to differ.

[bravesnumberone]

Hamilton can scoot.

[cajunrevenge]

http://cdn.memegenerator.net/instances/250x250/49005105.jpg

Sorry beer and a buggy cell phone is a bad combination.

[TURBO]

Hitting 98. I like it.

[bravesnumberone]

Sorry beer and a buggy cell phone is a bad combination.

Is that what you told the hooker?

[AerchAngel]

Don't worry. Cinncy is going to torch Hale for one run and run him out of the game after 8 innings.

-Millwood before the first pitch.

Please tell Millwood to say this when we play against Fernandez on Tuesday. We need the luck.

[CJC]

Gun is reading 97 and 98 consistently on the FBs.

He back.

[Heyward]

Great AB by Votto.

[Mrs. Meta]

Gun is reading 97 and 98 consistently on the FBs.

He back.

...and so is his pitch countlol!

[TURBO]

Votto is a really good hitter. But that was strike 3

edit:maybe not

[Mrs. Meta]

WELL!

[TURBO]

http://li.c-b.co/is/image/LandOfNod/Letter_Giant_Enough_W_234214_LL/$web_zoom$&wid=550&hei=550&/1308310656/not-giant-enough-letter-w.jpg

[Heyward]

He's BACKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK.

[The Chosen One]

Another series won.

[bravesnumberone]

22 Ks in 10 1/3 innings. Sick.

[nsacpi]

So for tomorrow, how about Pastornicky at second and Pena at third. Gotta keep the bench guys sharp.

[zitothebrave]

Another series won.

We are a terrible ball team.

[mossy]

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b171/JamieSanders/Mobile%20Uploads/B67EAAD1-9722-4AA2-A4A3-7460BA837E7A_zpsha5qrmke.png (http://s19.photobucket.com/user/JamieSanders/media/Mobile%20Uploads/B67EAAD1-9722-4AA2-A4A3-7460BA837E7A_zpsha5qrmke.png.html)

[The Chosen One]

We are a terrible ball team.

If we didn't have Fredi we'd be undefeated.

[USMA76]

Our #1 pitcher against their #3 (?) tomorrow. Be nice to finish the sweep.

[bravesnumberone]

Our #1 pitcher against their #3 (?) tomorrow. Be nice to finish the sweep.

At the risk of sounding like Millwood, that has 7-1 loss written all over it.

This team is rolling right now.

[Heyward]

Cueto is the Reds ace.

Gonna be like the Wood/Fernandez game, first to score wins.

Cueto has been insane this year.

[Heyward]

At the risk of sounding like Millwood, that has 7-1 loss written all over it.

This team is rolling right now.

Smoltz said we should probably have a better record given how insane we've pitched so far.

I agree with that, but we did win some games we should of lost, so.

[USMA76]

Starting pitching has been insane but the bullpen has fallen short of expectations to keep us from having an even better record.

[Lville21]

Braves had a 15-8 record this time last year. It seemed like it would be hard to top considering the team started 12-1 last year.

[bravesnumberone]

Smoltz said we should probably have a better record given how insane we've pitched so far.

I agree with that, but we did win some games we should of lost, so.

If we didn't have some guys struggling at the plate, we'd probably be 20-4. But without this great pitching, we might only be .500. So it evens out.

[GovClintonTyree]

Can't wait until Hale doesn't pitch for us anymore.

How many times did you say this ****?

[The Chosen One]

Can't wait until Hale doesn't pitch for us anymore.

Looks like we didn't need to reproduce the first inning a few times.

I'm issuing a suspension to your account following tomorrow's game and your privileges will be restored Tuesday.

[Heyward]

Don't understand why we're going with Hale, he's gonna get his clock cleaned tonight by this Reds lineup. And I'm sure Uggla gonna make some stupid defensive miscue that will really cause the floodgates to open.

:facepalm:

[Heyward]

Can't wait until Hale doesn't pitch for us anymore.

:icwudt:

[GovClintonTyree]

Gattis as a great one tool player with a few other average tools. He reminds me offensively of Adam Jones with more power and less speed.

Keep digging.

[Krovahn]

Man... Hale really sucks.

[The Chosen One]

Fredi's post game interviews are so Bobby like. He talks like he's managed for 20 seasons. Love it

[UNCBlue012]

So glad I got the opportunity to go to the game tonight! Not only was the weather perfect but it was a great all-around win. Freeman, JUP and Gattis all did work; Hale was amazing... I'm glad he will be in the BP and think he should be the guy to switch spot starts with Wood. And KKKimbrel... The man.

[nsacpi]

Looks like we didn't need to reproduce the first inning a few times.

I'm issuing a suspension to your account following tomorrow's game and your privileges will be restored Tuesday.

An off-day suspension?

[The Chosen One]

:pimp:
An off-day suspension?

[NinersSBChamps]

Wow Hale turns in one good start and you guys are all over his balls. I expect this from thethe.

[thethe]

Wow Hale turns in one good start and you guys are all over his balls. I expect this from thethe.

One good start? You either are unclear of the definition of good pitching or you are being deliberately obtuse.

[The Chosen One]

Wow Hale turns in one good start and you guys are all over his balls. I expect this from thethe.

Dude people are only expecting him to be a 5th starter.

How many 5th starters pitch into the 8th inning like that retiring 14 in a row?

Other than that Mets loss where the defense let him down, his numbers as a 5th starter have been fine.

[zitothebrave]

One good start? You either are unclear of the definition of good pitching or you are being deliberately obtuse.

4.47 xFIP isn't a great indicator of what's to come.

[nsacpi]

4.47 xFIP isn't a great indicator of what's to come.

True dat. His main problem has been the walks. Tonight he pounded the strike zone. Also generated more groundballs. If he can keep that up he can be a major league starter. But from start to start his command has not been consistent.

[thethe]

Of course his statline isn't going to be incredible as he is getting his feet wet.

[Heyward]

Wow Hale turns in one good start and you guys are all over his balls. I expect this from thethe.

He has a sub-3 ERA, i'm not a huge Hale fan but he has been as solid as it gets for your 4-5 starter.

[Braves1976]

Great game by Hale again tonight, he continues to prove the doubters around here wrong. Good job by Freeman, Gattis and Justin providing the homers and congrats to BJ for his 1,000 hit. Let's sweep them tomorrow boys!

[Braves1976]

True dat. His main problem has been the walks. Tonight he pounded the strike zone. Also generated more groundballs. If he can keep that up he can be a major league starter. But from start to start his command has not been consistent.

He also had Doumit catching him one game, that should be considered too. Not that Laird is good either, but Doumit is even worse.

Hale gets good movement on his fastball, he's a good sinker baller who will get a lot of ground balls. His off speed pitches are not bad either. He didn't have Simmons playing behind him in the minors. Now that he does he could really shine. Though Uggla at second has cost him two W's already (thankfully we still won that game vs Nationals, though not against the Mets).

[nsacpi]

He also had Doumit catching him one game, that should be considered too. Not that Laird is good either, but Doumit is even worse.

Hale gets good movement on his fastball, he's a good sinker baller who will get a lot of ground balls. His off speed pitches are not bad either. He didn't have Simmons playing behind him in the minors. Now that he does he could really shine. Though Uggla at second has cost him two W's already (thankfully we still won that game vs Nationals, though not against the Mets).

His fastball has good late life, making it a better pitch than the radar gun reading. He's just a bit inconsistent with the command. His changeup is a work in progress. His sinker is also a relatively new pitch. Although Hale isn't young for a rookie, we have to keep in mind that going to an Ivy League school retarded his development and also he was mainly an outfielder until his junior year. In terms of development he is still a work in progress. He probably has more potential for growth than your typical 26-year old.

He's the kind of guy you have to keep an open mind about. His floor is as an above average long man in the pen. His upside is mid-rotation starter.

[Millwood1Hitter]

IMO Hale is what he is, a solid back end of the rotation starter, swing man.

I think the guy potentially could help us more out of the pen as a sinker baller middle reliever, and could have a long MLB career in that role. He's got good sinking action and one good breaking ball, he won't last long as a starter once batters see him the second and third time around and scouts have a better book on him. But as a two pitch pitcher along with average change he could thrive in that middle relief role.

I'm thrilled with what we have gotten out of Harang and Hale with Minor and Floyd out, but it does not change my thoughts on the two going forward. They're hot and getting by with smoke and mirrors and will revert back to norms soon, and Minor and Floyd are superior pitchers, especially Minor.

[nsacpi]

I agree about Minor and Floyd being superior to Hale and Harang. Having someone like Hale as your #6 or #7 starter is a very good situation. And Martin and Schlosser are close to Hale in caliber imo. The nice thing is all three have options. So you can send them down to AAA if necessary, something that is more difficult to do with older guys like Harang and Garcia.

[Gary82]

Is Floyd really superior to Harang? Harang has had the better career.

[zitothebrave]

a
Is Floyd really superior to Harang? Harang has had the better career.

I'd honestly shop both and see who got the bigger return and sell that one.

Since 2010 Floyd has a 3.92 fip and 3.87 xFIP in the AL, Harang is at 4.28 and 4.47 in the NL. Floyd has clearly been better in recent years. Harang may have a better career, but Harang is 5 years older than FLoyd, so one would assume Harang's best years are behind him. Floyd is more likely to continue at his career norms.

[Julio3000]

My first real Braves game of the year with Mlb TV and I get to see Hale pitch?

Sheeeeeeeeeeit.

Howdy, y'all!

http://i1239.photobucket.com/albums/ff511/poinsett/sheeeit_zpsc5254d10.jpg

[GovClintonTyree]

His fastball has good late life, making it a better pitch than the radar gun reading. He's just a bit inconsistent with the command. His changeup is a work in progress. His sinker is also a relatively new pitch. Although Hale isn't young for a rookie, we have to keep in mind that going to an Ivy League school retarded his development and also he was mainly an outfielder until his junior year. In terms of development he is still a work in progress. He probably has more potential for growth than your typical 26-year old.

He's the kind of guy you have to keep an open mind about. His floor is as an above average long man in the pen. His upside is mid-rotation starter.

Ivy League schools always retard development.

He's an interesting case. There's some stuff to like but at this point it feels like most of his success is due to Roger's Pixie Dust. Sometimes guys have the last tumbler click into place right when they're promoted to the bigs. I kind of feel like that happened with Alex Wood with the spike curve last year.

[GovClintonTyree]

Is Floyd really superior to Harang? Harang has had the better career.

Real good question. Harang had three very good years with the Reds, got hurt, has most of his velocity back and has all his stuff moving. He's got a very short stride and comes straight over the top at 6'7", so if he can bury everything he's tough. And he's been tough.

Floyd never impressed me that much, but that park hurt him. In any event, you can't pull Harang out now.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Had to be away from home tonight, so I had to miss the game. First off.................
http://i.imgur.com/P6x0U.gif

Secondly, saw the soldier reunited with his family at the game. Awesome stuff.

[The Chosen One]

In any event, you can't pull Harang out now.

Eww...

[Julio3000]

I missed the game tonight, too. But in the same spirit, and since we won . . .

http://i1239.photobucket.com/albums/ff511/poinsett/fc49aeb1d7f049a4a320ede081b1bada_zps74a9d475.jpg

[Julio3000]

Eww...

/Jen

[nsacpi]

Harang had three very good years with the Reds, got hurt, has most of his velocity back and has all his stuff moving.

Fangraphs data on Harang's average fastball velocity:

2004 90.8
2005 90.5
2006 90.4
2007 90.1
2008 89.6
2009 90.4
2010 90.5
2011 89.8
2012 89.7
2013 89.8
2014 89.8

The man himself when asked about his velocity being up after his game against the Mets: "I haven't noticed honestly. That's secondary to me after location. Velocity is just an extra perk."

Tommy Hanson's average fastball velocity his last season with the Braves: 89.7

[Braves1976]

Is Floyd really superior to Harang? Harang has had the better career.

Keep in mind that Floyd is younger, has pitched most of his career in the AL and not in a pitcher friendly ballpark. While the latter is also true for Harang (as far as his years pitching in Cincy goes) he's still pitched in the NL outside of last year. Plus Harang was quite bad pitching in the AL last year.

[Braves1976]

Fangraphs data on Harang's average fastball velocity:

2004 90.8
2005 90.5
2006 90.4
2007 90.1
2008 89.6
2009 90.4
2010 90.5
2011 89.8
2012 89.7
2013 89.8
2014 89.8

The man himself when asked about his velocity being up after his game against the Mets: "I haven't noticed honestly. That's secondary to me after location. Velocity is just an extra perk."

Tommy Hanson's average fastball velocity his last season with the Braves: 89.7

Thanks for pointing that out, I noted his velocity was up early on but if anything it's been worse than last year at times since. Which equals out to the same as last year overall apparently.

[GovClintonTyree]

Eww...

Can't pull Wood out, either.

[GovClintonTyree]

Fangraphs data on Harang's average fastball velocity:

2004 90.8
2005 90.5
2006 90.4
2007 90.1
2008 89.6
2009 90.4
2010 90.5
2011 89.8
2012 89.7
2013 89.8
2014 89.8

The man himself when asked about his velocity being up after his game against the Mets: "I haven't noticed honestly. That's secondary to me after location. Velocity is just an extra perk."

Tommy Hanson's average fastball velocity his last season with the Braves: 89.7

Well, there you go. He's pretty close to where he was. But even Randy Johnson, who threw 3/4, isn't as downhill as Harang. He pitches tall and is 6'7" to start with. It's not unthinkable that this is a renaissance, though I tend to agree with my close personal friend Zito, who says his exfips predict regression.

I do see a lot of action on his pitches. They look heavy.

[Heyward]

I'm not sure if Hale is a "swing-man"

He has good command, his change is decent, when he commands his curve like last night, he's tough.

He's kinda like a worse version of Medlen.

And i dont think anyone said he's the savior or anything but minus 1 start vs the Mets, you cant really ask for much more so far.

[nsacpi]

He has good command, his change is decent, when he commands his curve like last night, he's tough.



He had good command last night. But he's had games this season where his command has not been good enough.

[Tapate50]

He had good command last night. But he's had games this season where his command has not been good enough.

Just like 95% of the rest of mlb pitchers

[Heyward]

He had good command last night. But he's had games this season where his command has not been good enough.

Yep, no one has said he's an ace or TOR starter (1-2), but he's a solid 4-5 and at times (last night), is capable of dominating.

Niners and Millwood act like he's a scrub who is lucky to get hitters out.

You can say the same about all pitchers though with their command.

[nsacpi]

Just like 95% of the rest of mlb pitchers

Sure every pitcher has games where the command isn't there. But consistency of command from game to game is one of the things that divides those who are in major league starting rotations and those who aren't.

[nsacpi]

Yep, no one has said he's an ace or TOR starter (1-2), but he's a solid 4-5 and at times (last night), is capable of dominating.

Niners and Millwood act like he's a scrub who is lucky to get hitters out.

You can say the same about all pitchers though with their command.

I'm happy to have guys like Hale, Martin and Schlosser. They are serviceable with some upside.

[The Chosen One]

I'd take Hale over what we got out of Sugar Shane and Albie Lopez.

Hale can actually make it to 5-6 innings.

[thewupk]

What has saved Hale is that he hasn't given up any homers yet. 5.79 K/9 and a 4.24 BB/9 isn't going to get it done. He's also had a very low BABIP against which will climb eventually and at some point he will give up homers but how many remains to be seen. Either way as a #5 he is more than capable compared to other options around the league but I wouldn't expect more then that.