GDT #25, 2/29/'14: Braves (Wood) vs. Marlins (Fernandez)

[UNCBlue012]

It's a bit early (as always!), but it seems to be giving us good luck so far! But, we're in for a rematch of the unbelievable game at Turner last week! With a ballpark as large as Marlins Park, this could truly be a lot of fun... for the pitchers. It'll be interesting to see if we can get any runs off of Fernandez; the guy is 11-0 in his career at Marlins Park and has been as dominant as anyone this year. Nonetheless, I expect a pretty decent day for most of the guys, I hope Jason can give us a few hits and Justin can continue his hot-streak!

#Marlins Fernandez (faces #Braves Tues) has never lost at Marlins Park: 11-0 w/ 1.07 ERA, .164 OA in 18 starts w/ 135K/30BB in 117 2/3 IP

Projected Lineup:
1. J. Heyward
2. BJ Upton
3. Freddie Freeman
4. Justin Upton
5. Gattis
6. Uggla
7. CJoh
8. Simmons
9. Wood

Also, this is my last day of class at UNC-Charlotte, so it's a pretty bittersweet feeling over here and I have a interview at a Marketing Firm tomorrow morning, so wish me luck guys!

And as always: GO BRAVES!!

[The Chosen One]

You're in Charlotte... I got a speeding ticket there on 85 from Greensboro to Charlotte. 5 lane highway at 3am I'm the only car and he pulls me over for going 89 in 75 with no other cars on the road.

Blasphemy!

[nsacpi]

Expecting a huge game from Uggla.

[The Chosen One]

Expecting a huge game from Uggla.

May not remember but in 2003 during scout days I used to say before every game in every gdt "Expecting a huge game from the Vinster". People were complaining and outraged.

[Millwood1Hitter]

Let me guess, we might just luck out and get a hit or two off Fernandez and even score a run or two, but Wood or the pen will get blasted.

[The Chosen One]

Let me guess, we might just luck out and get a hit or two off Fernandez and even score a run or two, but Wood or the pen will get blasted.

Why so negative before every game? :confused:

[Millwood1Hitter]

Why so negative before every game? :confused:

That's what happens when nothing goes right in one's life. I used to be positive and always think the best, but whenever I did that, it would always turn to the worse and something epically bad would occur.

[The Chosen One]

That's what happens when nothing goes right in one's life. I used to be positive and always think the best, but whenever I did that, it would always turn to the worse and something epically bad would occur.

Well as long as you're doing the pessimist reverse jinx that's cool... just don't get too crazy with it.

[nsacpi]

ethnic cleansing

[jsebe10]

With Fernandez being undefeated at home and simply over powering the Braves in his every start, I don't see much runs being scored tonight for hopefully either side. Fernandez is the real deal folks.

[MadduxFanII]

This game seems like a perfect opportunity for the always-awesome 10-inning start. We haven't had one since Millwood in 1999.

[UNCBlue012]

@KevinMcAlpin: #Braves lineup: Heyward 9, Pena 5, Freeman 3, Gattis 2, Doumit 7, Simmons 6, Schafer 8, Pastornicky 4, Wood 1.

What lol

[The Chosen One]

@KevinMcAlpin: #Braves lineup: Heyward 9, Pena 5, Freeman 3, Gattis 2, Doumit 7, Simmons 6, Schafer 8, Pastornicky 4, Wood 1.

What lol

...

[TURBO]

Going with guys withh better contact, shorter swings against the K machine? Grasping at straws here.

[atl717]

Fredi is a joke. How can he have JUp on the bench just to get a lefty in there?

[gilesfan]

Is it Sunday?

[jpack1]

That can't be the real lineup can it? Why would you not have J Up in there?

[MadduxFanII]

Well...that's different.

[thethe]

Why bench Justin? I get the other changes and like them.

[UNCBlue012]

I'm literally pissed to see Justin not there. I can understand Schafer because he needs more at-bats and he's a lefty, but Doumit in left at marlins park. Why? And Justin has been en fuego. I am happy to see Chris getting a little more time off and Ramiro in there. Still, so stupid.

[nsacpi]

Fredi going rad on us. I approve. Fernandez has held righties to a .462 OPS in his career. He has held lefties to a .576 OPS. He's tough on everyone, but a .100+ point OPS difference is significant and I'm glad Fredi is loading up on lefty hitters.

Furthermore, Justin Upton has a .000 career OPS against Fernandez, Johnson is at .222, BJ at .200, Uggla at .200.

Additionally, he is putting our best infield defense out there for Alex Wood, who gets a lot of ground balls.

Finally, the regulars who are playing (Freeman, Gattis, Simmons, Heyward) have had some success against Fernandez in their careers.

I say well done Fredi. We may not win tonight, but it is not because our manager pulled a bunch of names out of the hat. His player selections tonight are extremely well thought out.

[Heyward]

Other than JUp out, i like it.

[jsebe10]

...

Death in the Upton family?

[nsacpi]

Having seen the lineup I'm expecting an even bigger game from Uggla now.

[thethe]

I like the lineup. I just wish Upton was in there aside from Doumit. Regardless of the splits I think Justin is more likely to get a hit off of Fernandez than Doumit.

[gilesfan]

Death in the Upton family?

BJs game

[jpx7]

Is it Sunday?

No, but—according to the thread title—it is February, and a leap-year no less, so maybe that has something to do with it.

[NYCBrave]

FYI, Justin Upton is 0-7 with 4 Ks against Fernandez.

[nsacpi]

No, but—according to the thread title—it is February, and a leap-year no less, so maybe that has something to do with it.

Actually it is February 29 in a non-leap year. That's even more remarkable. Something special will be happening.

[jpx7]

Actually it is February 29 in a non-leap year. That's even more remarkable.

Indeed.

In light of that, I'm expecting an historic, career-defining day from Uggla.

[MadduxFanII]

Results of seven at-bats notwithstanding, I still think you need to start your red hot .330/.406/.625 left fielder against one of the best pitchers in the game.

Little harder to get worked up over sitting CJ, BJ and Uggla.

[Dalyn]

:fredi:

[TDlxANDER]

At the end of the game....we'll all be saying this to Fredi

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8rwPovyR9HY

[Dalyn]

This would be a good time for Wood to pitch his first perfect game.

[Millwood1Hitter]

Fredi on lineup: "let's see what they got."

[nsacpi]

Results of seven at-bats notwithstanding, I still think you need to start your red hot .330/.406/.625 left fielder against one of the best pitchers in the game.

Little harder to get worked up over sitting CJ, BJ and Uggla.

You misunderestimate Fredi's psychological shrewdness. By giving Justin a night off too, Fredi provides reassurance to the other three that they aren't being benched for lack of performance. His management of the egos on this team is nothing short of masterful.

[nsacpi]

Fredi on lineup: "let's see what they got."

Guiding with a light touch. Like Angel Cordero riding Bold Forbes.

[Hawk]

So, over/under on 13Ks for Fernandez tonight?

[gilesfan]

So, over/under on 13Ks for Fernandez tonight?

Is that first 5 or full game?

[Hawk]

Is that first 5 or full game?

Hah, I might actually bet on first 5 given the decrepit state of tonight's lineup.

[bravesnumberone]

This would be a good time for Wood to pitch his first perfect game.

Only to be taken out in the 12th due to pitch count.

[yeezus]

Hah, I might actually bet on first 5 given the decrepit state of tonight's lineup.

Three of the big K guys are out though.
So he may only get 12 over 7.

[CPaul77]

Welp Fernandez is straight up en fuego at home and owns J Up, so why not give him a rest? Day off in late April never hurts.

[bravesnumberone]

Any lineup without Uggla is a good one in my book....:dance:

[sturg33]

Nice of Fredi to allow our bench bats to go up against arguably the best pitcher in baseball...

That'll get em going

[Hawk]

Maybe Fredi still has a blood pact with Loria.

[Heyward]

Nice of Fredi to allow our bench bats to go up against arguably the best pitcher in baseball...

That'll get em going

Minus JUp sitting, its not too bad.

[stpeteirish]

That's what happens when nothing goes right in one's life. I used to be positive and always think the best, but whenever I did that, it would always turn to the worse and something epically bad would occur.

you need to get a shrink. seriously,.

[stpeteirish]

the starters have proven thay can't hit Fernandez, why not go with the bench guys? Fredi may have gotten a little carried away. The only bench guy who isn't playing is Laird.

[BravesfanMike]

LOLOL!! Now THATS funny !!

Expecting a huge game from Uggla.

[stpeteirish]

This would be a good time for Wood to pitch his first perfect game.

do we win in extras?

[zitothebrave]

Nice of Fredi to allow our bench bats to go up against arguably the best pitcher in baseball...

That'll get em going

Pena for Struggla makes sense. Doumit for Justin doesn't. I would have subbed out Justin for Schafer and left Bossman in CF and Pastor for Uggs put Pena at 3B, just go with an all defense lineup.

[UNCBlue012]

Pena for Struggla makes sense. Doumit for Justin doesn't. I would have subbed out Justin for Schafer and left Bossman in CF and Pastor for Uggs put Pena at 3B, just go with an all defense lineup. Agreed. With that large stadium, I think it's by far the best time for great defense. I am pleased to see Schafer and Jason out there... then Doumit happened.

[jpx7]

The only bench guy who isn't playing is Laird.

And for good reason: he's already winded from all the managing he had to do ahead of tonight's game.

[Fredi Gonzalez]

Oh ye of little faith. 100% guarantee we win tonight or I will re-sign as manager of the team.

[bravesnumberone]

Oh ye of little faith. 100% guarantee we win tonight or I will re-sign as manager of the team.

:fredi:

[bravesnumberone]

After listening to Fredi talk with Jim Powell, if he's looking to get guys on and do some running, wouldn't it make more sense for BJ to be in there?

[Fredi Gonzalez]

After listening to Fredi talk with Jim Powell, if he's looking to get guys on and do some running, wouldn't it make more sense for BJ to be in there?

I just can't win with you people. I play BJ you hate. I don't play BJ you hate. Yeah I said we would run but that was a misdirection. What kind of moron would announce his strategy before the game.

[Hawk]

I will re-sign as manager of the team.

http://www.marlinnut.com/mblog/archive/FrediG.jpg

[weso1]

Well you know what they say. If it's not broke then you need to try and fix it.

[Hawk]

And for good reason: he's already winded from all the managing he had to do ahead of tonight's game.

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TKMDKDvl7rg/TLUmIDCgHvI/AAAAAAAAP9E/ixb8D3k4ecI/s1600/atlanta+-+fredi+gonzalez.jpg

[bravesnumberone]

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GfpKFYKT3EI/UKkTmkbkf0I/AAAAAAAAHj8/HWXvFxJb9Ns/s1600/IMG_5607.JPG

[Hawk]

Fredi met with his muse prior to hashing out the intricacies of tonight's lineup.

http://www.mickeyxtreme.com/images1/news%202011/02162011FrediGonzalezMickeyMouse.jpg

[jpx7]

Well you know what they say. If it's not broke then you need to try and fix it.

I have doubts if they even said that.

[50PoundHead]

Well you know what they say. If it's not broke then you need to try and fix it.

My motto has always been, "if it's not broke then break it."

[bravesnumberone]

Funny, I always thought Fredi said "If it ain't broke, tip your cap."

[Fredi Gonzalez]

Alex told me was feeling a bit stiff this morning so I might be quick to yank him tonight.

[bravesnumberone]

So he's not gonna harang around too long?

[Fredi Gonzalez]

So he's not gonna harang around too long?

I don't get it

[CyYoung31]

Feel like I should edit the date on the thread title...but, nah, let's see what happens.

[mossy]

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b171/JamieSanders/alexjose_zps1cced6b6.png (http://s19.photobucket.com/user/JamieSanders/media/alexjose_zps1cced6b6.png.html)

[Tapate50]

After listening to Fredi talk with Jim Powell, if he's looking to get guys on and do some running, wouldn't it make more sense for BJ to be in there?

Getting on is his kryptonite... So.... No.

[mossy]

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b171/JamieSanders/lineup_zps20e384dd.png (http://s19.photobucket.com/user/JamieSanders/media/lineup_zps20e384dd.png.html)

[mossy]

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b171/JamieSanders/jhey_zps5d706a2e.png (http://s19.photobucket.com/user/JamieSanders/media/jhey_zps5d706a2e.png.html)

[bravesnumberone]

LOL that slider is ridiculous.

[UNCBlue012]

That slider

[mossy]

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b171/JamieSanders/wood_zps324d943b.png (http://s19.photobucket.com/user/JamieSanders/media/wood_zps324d943b.png.html)

[Fredi Gonzalez]

****, Yelichs on my fantasy team. Gonna have to talk to Schafer.

[bravesnumberone]

Doumit is just a can of Laird.

[50PoundHead]

Is BJ Wood's roommate on road trips?

[mossy]

Wish the guys would take a pitch or two, but Fernandez just owns either way.

[bravesnumberone]

Quite an echo in the park. Brings back memories of Montreal.

[Hawk]

Perfect game. Calling it now.

[bravesnumberone]

Fernandez well on his way again. What is that? 15 pitches?

[mossy]

Stadium rather sparsely populated for such a duel.

Joe Simpson mentioned it as well.

[The Chosen One]

Welp Fernandez is straight up en fuego at home and owns J Up, so why not give him a rest? Day off in late April never hurts.

Welcome aboard, love your avatar!

[CJC]

Perfect game. Calling it now.


I'm predicting that Fernandez is perfect through 9, but the game is tied. Then the Braves win in the 10th.

[mossy]

Quite an echo in the park. Brings back memories of Montreal.

Yeah, the ump echoed for a good 3-4 seconds.

[The Chosen One]

Stadium rather sparsely populated for such a duel.

Joe Simpson mentioned it as well.

Stadium is usually sparsely populated.

[jpx7]

Perfect game. Calling it now.

Naw, Hechavarria is going to commit an error.

[UNCBlue012]

This team can't touch Fernandez right now. Dang.

[The Chosen One]

Hernandez CG, 1 run, 1 hit, 13k, 0 bb, 58 pitches, loss.

Gattis. 1 hr.

[The Chosen One]

Heyward's defense is so good.

[bravesnumberone]

Wood gets a lot of pop outs.

[mossy]

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b171/JamieSanders/wood2_zps06e48287.png (http://s19.photobucket.com/user/JamieSanders/media/wood2_zps06e48287.png.html)

[The Chosen One]

Poor Wood. Probably going to pitch 8 innings again and not get a decision or lose.

[bravesnumberone]

Swinging at the first pitch is not the way to go after him.

[bravesnumberone]

Pastor > Uggla.

[mossy]

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b171/JamieSanders/miami_zps5bb2a950.png (http://s19.photobucket.com/user/JamieSanders/media/miami_zps5bb2a950.png.html)

[The Chosen One]

Pastor gets 1 walk.

It might take Uggla a week to get one.

Uggla would've k'd the 4th pitch into that at-bat. It's time to make a change.

[50PoundHead]

Alright P-man!

[The Chosen One]

Both Glavine and Smoltz are special consultants to the Braves. Is there anyway either one of them can teach the young guys how to bunt? JEeezzzz

[bravesnumberone]

SQUARE THE **** AROUND.

[The Chosen One]

:facepalm:

Alex

[bravesnumberone]

****ing embarrassing. Why has Pastor not run, anyway?

[yeezus]

this team is a joke with getting bunts down.

[The Chosen One]

DANGIT. If Alex just got the bunt down that would've been a run.

[bravesnumberone]

Should have a run.

[jsebe10]

Is there a fine process that the Braves have in place for not getting a sacrifice bunt down?

[The Chosen One]

WOWOWOWOW

[jsebe10]

Good swing Jason.

[mossy]

If only we'd gotten the bunt down. Darnit. At least the no no/perfect game is out.

[bravesnumberone]

He's safe.

[The Chosen One]

Safe! CHALLENGE IT FREDI.

This might be the only chance you get a run. CHALLENGE IT.

[The Chosen One]

Fire HORACIO now.

Useless pitching, useless replay reviewer.

[bravesnumberone]

That was moronic not to challenge that.

Hell of a play be Fernandez though.

That inning is on Wood.

[Hawk]

Should have a run.

+1

[mossy]

I'm a little puzzled. I didn't see much slow mo there, but he sure looked safe...

[jpack1]

Gotta. Challenge there's he was safe.

[The Chosen One]

I think it was bang bang nearly a tie. In that case runner is the winner.

[lward343]

Pretty clearly out... glad we didn't waste the challenge. Wasted half inning. Wood is keeping himself from winning games.

[nsacpi]

Looked out, or at least too close to be reversed.

[The Chosen One]

This stadium is huge.

[thewupk]

I think it was bang bang nearly a tie. In that case runner is the winner.

But he was called out. There had to be clear evidence he was safe and I don't thin it was clear enough.

[bravesnumberone]

Probably too close to be reversed. Umpire wasn't even looking at Pastor.

[mossy]

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b171/JamieSanders/replay_zps2f70c9d8.png (http://s19.photobucket.com/user/JamieSanders/media/replay_zps2f70c9d8.png.html)

This isn't the best pic, but all the replays make me wonder....

[tvsportscaster]

I agree with Joe, you can't talk all day about the lack of run support for Alex, but he learns how to get a bunt down, it would have some runs. He is absolutely atrocious bunting. And that could have been big.

[mossy]

Wow, getting boo'd after jogging. Simba messed up twice and still got him..........

Weird play.

[bravesnumberone]

The whole team is terrible at bunting. And they will be until they get their damn feet squared around. Not that halfway ****.

[The Chosen One]

Bossman could've had that. Crap.

[The Chosen One]

lol Doumit playing left.

[bravesnumberone]

Marlins are knocking Wood around.

[bravesnumberone]

WTF was Doumit doing??

[mossy]

lol Doumit playing left.

Solid hustle.

[lward343]

And this is how you lose to Jose Fernandez.

[mossy]

Game over.

[UNCBlue012]

That's seriously probably game.

[jsebe10]

Get the fckn ball down Jesus Christ.

[tvsportscaster]

Bossman could've had that. Crap.

No he wouldn't have.

[UNCBlue012]

Welp.

[lward343]

It sucks having 4-5 guaranteed losses this season against the Marlins.

[bravesnumberone]

Is McGee serious?

[thethe]

Welp.

Your streak is in jeopardy now.

[thewupk]

No he wouldn't have.

But Justin could of caught the one Doumit let drop.

[tvsportscaster]

Well at least Wood won't lose this one 1-0, but the Braves will get shut out again. Oh well, we can't win them all.

[The Chosen One]

No he wouldn't have.

Schafer has speed but takes weird routes to the ball.

Bossman may be hitting but at least he still gets to balls defensively.

[stpeteirish]

g'night.

[bravesnumberone]

Well can't blame anyone else tonight Wood. Can't get the bunt down. Can't get the ball down.

[TURBO]

We will score this game.

[Russ2dollas]

Wood throwing a lot of balls down the middle.

Schafer is fast but takes terrible routes.

We aren't scoring 3 vs this guy.

[bravesnumberone]

Jesus Christ, are we just going to swing at everything?

[mossy]

I understand Doumit was playing it safe, but....that decision costs dearly.

[thewupk]

Braves are being extra hacktastic tonight. Fernandez will go the distance and not come close to 100 pitches at this rate.

[bravesnumberone]

The bottom line is you don't put bad defensive players in a large outfield.

[thewupk]

I understand Doumit was playing it safe, but....that decision costs dearly.

Yeah. That's one scenario where you don't play it safe.

[50PoundHead]

Big D with the base knock!

[bravesnumberone]

Utterly depressing. Gonna check out some hoops for a couple innings.

[jsebe10]

If it's kept close in the later innings, Fredi will use the starters that's sitting tonight to clean it up and bail him and that genius Tosca out.

[The Chosen One]

It feels good not having to sit back in my seat whenever a 6-4-3 double play is in play, and I feel confident 4 isn't going to mess up.

[bravesnumberone]

The virtues of patience.

[The Chosen One]

Chip: "And now Jason Heyward can tie the game with one swing".

It's 3-0, not 2-0.

[thewupk]

Chip: "And now Jason Heyward can tie the game with one swing".

It's 3-0, not 2-0.

not very surprising from Chip

[jsebe10]

Hernandez hung Heyward a butter maker curveball

[bravesnumberone]

Awful.

[jsebe10]

Awful.

I was thinking more along the lines of quick

[tvsportscaster]

This is a prime example tonight of a man against boys. They have no chance.

[jsebe10]

This is a prime example tonight of a man against boys. They have no chance.

Pretty much. Bad thing is, Hernandez looks to be hittable tonight , but we have our Sunday Funday getaway day line up in.

[TDlxANDER]

Wood not good tonight

[jsebe10]

What happens when you can't keep the ball down "GA Boy ".

[tvsportscaster]

Well, it took 25 games but a Braves starter has finally stunk up the joint. Alex Wood definitely not living up to the task tonight. First time all year I've had to turn off the game knowing the Braves have no chance of winning.

[UNCBlue012]

Poor Alex. He looks terrible against these marlins. Decent lineup they throw out though.

[TDlxANDER]

Just one of those days. Sick of hearing about the lack of runs scored though.

[bravesnumberone]

**** happens. He'll bounce back. We lost this game in the top of the third.

[TDlxANDER]

Good thing about this game...I can go to bed early!

[bravesnumberone]

Time for Varvaro and Schlosser to take one for the team.

[UNCBlue012]

... This team is not that good.

[sturg33]

This game was over when the lineup card was written

[bravesnumberone]

On another topic, for the love of God, stop with these dark blue jerseys. Please.

[jsebe10]

... This team is not that good.

Who? The Markins?

[jsebe10]

This game was over when the lineup card was written

What are you going to do though? Fredi is a fckn idiot for even thinking of an idea like this.

"Wanted to show him something different".

[bravesnumberone]

Maybe, but Justin, CJ, Uggla, BJ would have done nothing different. At some point they're going to have to figure out something against Fernandez.

[jason27nc]

Hernandez hung Heyward a butter maker curveball

How is old Felix doing that?

[zitothebrave]

Maybe, but Justin, CJ, Uggla, BJ would have done nothing different. At some point they're going to have to figure out something against Fernandez.

Fernandez right now is the best pitcher in the majors.

[nsacpi]

Gavin Floyd with his best outing so far.

[bravesnumberone]

Fernandez right now is the best pitcher in the majors.

Still some poor at bats. At least other teams have been able to score off him. He is fun to watch though.

[zitothebrave]

Fernandez will look good in Rangers colors when they trade the farm for him and Stanton.

[jcc03004]

I guess 9-0 games are something that happen to every team occasionally haven't seen the game did wood look as bad as his line indicates? And you would figure since we are seeing him for the 2nd time in 6 days that we might be able to score u know at least 1 run. For those who thought we were going to go 13-6 against the marlins think again there pitching is too good. Here's to hoping we miss this guy for the rest of the year.

[Heyward]

Not a surprising outcome.

Fernandez is just too good.

[The Chosen One]

Not a surprising outcome.

Fernandez is just too good.

Let me know what day you want to serve your 1 day suspension.

[Heyward]

What are you going to do though? Fredi is a fckn idiot for even thinking of an idea like this.

"Wanted to show him something different".

Wood gave up 7 runs, really would not have mattered.

[Julio3000]

I guess we were due for one of these.

[cap tip]

[Heyward]

Let me know what day you want to serve your 1 day suspension.

If this is serious.

I'll PM you sometime tonight.

[The Chosen One]

I guess we were due for one of these.

[cap tip]

A cap tip and a gonna be a long night for Chip.

[CyYoung31]

Regardless of the outcome, Chip always comes out a winner when we play in Miami.

[Heyward]

Fernandez will look good in Rangers colors when they trade the farm for him and Stanton.

Nice to dream.

[UNCBlue012]

Who? The Markins? Yes haha should of clarified!

[thewupk]

Might as well get the worst pitching performance out of the way on an a night where you had to be perfect to win. Fernandez is a beast.

[Julio3000]

Might as well get the worst pitching performance out of the way on an a night where you had to be perfect to win. Fernandez is a beast.

Really, no shame in getting buzzsawed by that guy, particularly with the lineup we ran out there.

[Heyward]

Yes haha should of clarified!

Marlins arent that bad.

[Dalyn]

Worst game of the year. Ridiculous managing.

[thewupk]

Worst game of the year. Ridiculous managing.

Braves are horrible.

[Millwood1Hitter]

Still trying to wrap my head around what the hell Fredi was thinking with that lineup, then again, he doesn't think, I'm confused.

I realize that the outcome wouldn't have been any different, but man this guy is a radical bafoon.

Instead of tipping my cap to the best pitcher in baseball, I'm shaking my head in disbelief at the worst decision maker in the business.

You want their best to beat our best. I guess I now know what to expect in Game 7 of a playoff series against a dominat starter, along with Kimbrel in the pen.

[rico43]

MORONS

[Julio3000]

MORONS

Socrates? Aristotle? Plato?

[The Chosen One]

162 game season. I won't be hurt over a loss like this
Fern is the best pitcher in the league right now. No shame.

[Millwood1Hitter]

Yeah no shame in the loss, just don't understand Fredi.

[mossy]

Instead of tipping my cap to the best pitcher in baseball, I'm shaking my head in disbelief at the worst decision maker in the business.

.

C'mon. We haven't done anything against Fernandez before anyway, so why not switch it up?

So it didn't work, but some of our guys probably needed a night off anyway. Free night off will pay off.

Fredi isn't faultless, but as you said, best pitcher in the game was on the hill tonight.

[Heyward]

Yeah no shame in the loss, just don't understand Fredi.

Fredi does more good than bad, laugh at you will.

The lineup was stranger but Wood got rocked so would it of really mattered, no.

Games like this happen, every team has a game where they get their brains beat in. Wont be the last one like this, probably 4+ more.

[jsebe10]

C'mon. We haven't done anything against Fernandez before anyway, so why not switch it up?

So it didn't work, but some of our guys probably needed a night off anyway. Free night off will pay off.

Fredi isn't faultless, but as you said, best pitcher in the game was on the hill tonight.

The whole team had Monday off

[jcc03004]

Still trying to wrap my head around what the hell Fredi was thinking with that lineup, then again, he doesn't think, I'm confused.

I realize that the outcome wouldn't have been any different, but man this guy is a radical bafoon.

Instead of tipping my cap to the best pitcher in baseball, I'm shaking my head in disbelief at the worst decision maker in the business.

You want their best to beat our best. I guess I now know what to expect in Game 7 of a playoff series against a dominat starter, along with Kimbrel in the pen.

Did Freddie make Alex give up 7 runs and varvaro 2 more?

[Heyward]

Still trying to wrap my head around what the hell Fredi was thinking with that lineup, then again, he doesn't think, I'm confused.

I realize that the outcome wouldn't have been any different, but man this guy is a radical bafoon.

Instead of tipping my cap to the best pitcher in baseball, I'm shaking my head in disbelief at the worst decision maker in the business.

You want their best to beat our best. I guess I now know what to expect in Game 7 of a playoff series against a dominat starter, along with Kimbrel in the pen.

Fredi usually only rests 1-2 guys usually.

He's smart with the lineup most of the time in giving guys days off and whatnot.

I guess he saw Fernandez was pitching and conceded.

[mossy]

The whole team had Monday off

And? two nights off is big.

Ever played city league ball? I played a season once a week about 10 years ago, and would be sore for days, worse if I took a grounder off the shins or tweaked an ankle in the outfield grass. I realize I'm not a professional athlete, but the point is any time off in baseball matters over 162.

[mossy]

I guess he saw Fernandez was pitching and conceded.

Honestly it feels like Fredi isn't the only one that conceded. Ryan Vomit didn't make an attempt to catch that ball in left, and that was the ball game.

[Heyward]

The whole team had Monday off

Wood got rocked, it's not a big deal.

It's not a huge deal like some of you Fredi haters are making it out to be.

Fernandez owns us.

[bravesnumberone]

The only thing Fredi did wrong was starting Doumit in left field. That being said, he managed one of the only two hits off Jose.

None of it mattered, because Wood couldn't keep the ball down.

[Julio3000]

Honestly it feels like Fredi isn't the only one that conceded. Ryan Vomit didn't make an attempt to catch that ball in left, and that was the ball game.

Runs saved on defense don't matter. Have you not read the Heyward thread?

[mossy]

Runs saved on defense don't matter. Have you not read the Heyward thread?

Who?

[jsebe10]

Runs saved on defense don't matter. Have you not read the Heyward thread?

Yea, 9 of them.

[NinersSBChamps]

Just checking in. We did good tonight right?

[rico43]

Just checking in. We did good tonight right?

We the Braves or we the posters on this board?

Below average night for both, I'd say.

[mossy]

Just checking in. We did good tonight right?

By 1989 standards, it was damn near playoff worthy. And I'm not even talking about Fernandez.

[UNCBlue012]

I'm utterly surprised we played like we did against the Marlins tonight. I didn't see the game, but I heard that Doumit was awful in the field and Alex just didn't bring it at all. Anything else I could get from a loss like this? Well, and Fernandez is the man.

[Heyward]

I'm utterly surprised we played like we did against the Marlins tonight. I didn't see the game, but I heard that Doumit was awful in the field and Alex just didn't bring it at all. Anything else I could get from a loss like this? Well, and Fernandez is the man.

We got our tails kicked by arguably the best pitcher in the game.

Games like this happen to all teams.

Move on.

[NinersSBChamps]

If there are no objections..I will make the GDT for tomorrow.

[GovClintonTyree]

Worst game of the year. Ridiculous managing.

/eye roll

Something tells me at 9-0 the players have something to do with it. I thought it was creative; worth a shot. Pretty sure Alex Wood gave up 7 and Fernandez was ice.

Maybe the next time we face Fernandez you should manage the club, Dalyn. How do you think you'll do?

[GovClintonTyree]

Marlins arent that bad.

Yeah, I'm impressed with their pitching. Not enough offense yet to make a run, but they're on track.

[Dalyn]

/eye roll

Something tells me at 9-0 the players have something to do with it. I thought it was creative; worth a shot. Pretty sure Alex Wood gave up 7 and Fernandez was ice.

Maybe the next time we face Fernandez you should manage the club, Dalyn. How do you think you'll do?

Confidence is a huge part of the game. How do you think Wood felt (after two straight 1-0 games) when he saw the lineup? It isn't a coincidence he had such a bad start.

[jason27nc]

Yeah, I'm impressed with their pitching. Not enough offense yet to make a run, but they're on track.

You do know they have scored 28 more runs than we have this year right? The pitching that you are so impressed with has given up 35 more runs than the Braves have. So it is really the opposite of what you said for the fish. None of that is on Fernandez as he is a beast. He has given up earned runs in only 1 game this year. The Phillies roughed him up for 6 on April 11th. Since then he has given up 0 earned runs in 23 innings, 16 of those innings was against us.

[jason27nc]

I dislike Fredi as much as anyone on here but I do not blame him for this loss.

[nsacpi]

Yeah, I'm impressed with their pitching. Not enough offense yet to make a run, but they're on track.

Their offense looks a bit better than I thought it would be. With the second wild card, I think they will be in contention. Wouldn't want to run into them in a five game series.

[50PoundHead]

I'm utterly surprised we played like we did against the Marlins tonight. I didn't see the game, but I heard that Doumit was awful in the field and Alex just didn't bring it at all. Anything else I could get from a loss like this? Well, and Fernandez is the man.

I didn't see the game, but having watched Doumit up here in Minnesota last season, I can assure you that this is s given.

[sturg33]

Fernandez is someone we're going to have to deal with all year. In order to get better against him, you need to get more at bats against him. Instead of giving the Uptons 48 at bats against him, we give Schafer and Doumit those at bats. It's just dumb.

By the way, Justin was in a groove. Now he's had two days off.

[nsacpi]

Fernandez is someone we're going to have to deal with all year. In order to get better against him, you need to get more at bats against him. Instead of giving the Uptons 48 at bats against him, we give Schafer and Doumit those at bats. It's just dumb.

By the way, Justin was in a groove. Now he's had two days off.

Care to quantify what it means for the team and Justin for him to:

1) Have four fewer AB's against Fernandez, and

2) Have 2 days off in a row rather than just 1

Just wondering how big an effect do you see those two factors having.

[sturg33]

Care to quantify what it means for the team and Justin for him to:

1) Have four fewer AB's against Fernandez, and

2) Have 2 days off in a row rather than just 1

Just wondering how big an effect do you see those two factors having.

I obviously can't quantify anything. My point is a hitter is likely to have more success the more he sees a pitcher. Do you disagree?

I was laughing at Chip last night when he said "The toughest thing for a pitcher to do is to face a team in back to back starts. I would imagine facing this lineup is even tougher than that!" Then Joe says "It's like he's facing a different team."

Exactly. If there is truth to the "tougher to face a team 2 straight starts," then Fredi basically took that advantage away from us.

Also, if you're Justin, BJ, CJ, and Uggla, doesn't a part of you get a little pissed off that your manager think Tyler Pastornicky has a better shot at performing than you agianst one of the game's best?

With regards to your second question, I think this is common sense. If a hitter is in a groove and is seeing the ball well, the last thing he wants is a day off, let alone two.

[nsacpi]

I obviously can't quantify anything. My point is a hitter is likely to have more success the more he sees a pitcher. Do you disagree?

I was laughing at Chip last night when he said "The toughest thing for a pitcher to do is to face a team in back to back starts. I would imagine facing this lineup is even tougher than that!" Then Joe says "It's like he's facing a different team."

Exactly. If there is truth to the "tougher to face a team 2 straight starts," then Fredi basically took that advantage away from us.

Also, if you're Justin, BJ, CJ, and Uggla, doesn't a part of you get a little pissed off that your manager think Tyler Pastornicky has a better shot at performing than you agianst one of the game's best?

With regards to your second question, I think this is common sense. If a hitter is in a groove and is seeing the ball well, the last thing he wants is a day off, let alone two.

I agree that familiarity helps a hitter. But the effect is fairly small. And we don't even know when Justin will face him again. There is also a small positive effect to giving our bench guys a game. We are arguing about small effects.

[sturg33]

The positive effect giving the bench a game against Jose Fernandez is that they can all go back to the bench with 0-fers

[nsacpi]

The positive effect giving the bench a game against Jose Fernandez is that they can all go back to the bench with 0-fers

Whatever the result, I would argue four at bats against a major league pitcher is the same in terms of helping a bench hitter get a little sharper. As I said we are arguing about some pretty small effects here. That's really the only point I have to make as to the future consequences of the lineup choices made last night.

[Hawk]

I didn't see the game, but having watched Doumit up here in Minnesota last season, I can assure you that this is s given.

What is Doumit's virtue? He can't catch. He can't play the OF. He might be serviceable at 1B the 10 or so games Freddie might miss this season. The Braves are usually so adept at constructing their bench with an almost unexpected balance of defensive whizzes and potent bats, but Doumit stinks up the whole joint -- especially when you consider what they are paying him.

[nsacpi]

What is Doumit's virtue? He can't catch. He can't play the OF. He might be serviceable at 1B the 10 or so games Freddie might miss this season. The Braves are usually so adept at constructing their bench with an almost unexpected balance of defensive whizzes and potent bats, but Doumit stinks up the whole joint -- especially when you consider what they are paying him.

The rationale is he brings some power to our bench. Other considerations: he is a switch hitter, he can catch albeit badly, which allows use of Gattis as a pinch hitter when he is not in the lineup.

Terdoslavich provides all of the above except the catching part at lower cost. Plus he is more acceptable defensively in the outfield. But the Braves love having a couple vets on the bench. Doumit follows in the tradition of Hinske, Diaz, Reed Johnson, Ross, Laird.

[jsebe10]

The positive effect giving the bench a game against Jose Fernandez is that they can all go back to the bench with 0-fers

Bingo.

Don't really know what they were expecting Pena or Pastor to do vs this guy. Lol

[Hawk]

The rationale is he brings some power to our bench. Other considerations: he is a switch hitter, he can catch albeit badly, which allows use of Gattis as a pinch hitter when he is not in the lineup.

Terdoslavich provides all of the above except the catching part at lower cost. Plus he is more acceptable defensively in the outfield. But the Braves love having a couple vets on the bench. Doumit follows in the tradition of Hinske, Diaz, Reed Johnson, Ross, Laird.

I can almost accept that, I guess. But the most they ever paid a guy from the group you listed was Diaz, at $2.5MM, and that was in 2010 - coming off of a season where he had nearly 400 ABs. None of the others crack $1.5MM. Just seems like a waste of resources bestowed upon a guy whose contributions from his 'quadrant' of value are fairly negligible (and never truly tested in a bench role before).

[gilesfan]

The bench really needs to be looked at. I know you cant expect great players on the bench, but you gotta have some guys that bring value to the club. You have to have guys that you have some confidence in getting a hit or playing good defense, or something.

Laird
Doumit
Pastor
Pena
Schafer

Anyone want any of these guys at the plate at any point? What if Simmons misses 3 weeks? Freeman? J-Up?

[Hawk]

Out of that group, the only two that could probably stand in as adequate replacements are Pena and Schafer.

Pastornicky deserves out of this organization.

[nsacpi]

So who would you like as our new bench players. Let's have some suggestions.

[nsacpi]

The bench really needs to be looked at. I know you cant expect great players on the bench, but you gotta have some guys that bring value to the club. You have to have guys that you have some confidence in getting a hit or playing good defense, or something.

Laird
Doumit
Pastor
Pena
Schafer

Anyone want any of these guys at the plate at any point? What if Simmons misses 3 weeks? Freeman? J-Up?

My guess is Terdoslavich would be called up and play a lot if any of Freeman, Justin or Heyward were out. Simmons is harder to replace, but it would probably be a platoon of Pena and Pastornicky.

[gilesfan]

Out of that group, the only two that could probably stand in as adequate replacements are Pena and Schafer.

Pastornicky deserves out of this organization.

And Pena is a career .244/.283/.329 hitter while Schafer is .226/.310/.311

[Hawk]

And Pena is a career .244/.283/.329 hitter while Schafer is .226/.310/.311

Pena doesn't even have 500 career ABs. Schafer has a little over 1K.

[nsacpi]

And Pena is a career .244/.283/.329 hitter while Schafer is .226/.310/.311

I think in the cases of players like that, they would step in as part of a platoon if a starter went down. Pena is .270/.314/.386 against righties and Schafer is .239/323/.328. Not great, but at least in the case of Pena I could live with that.

In terms of hitting, for me a bench player is acceptable if they can give you a .700 OPS against opposite handed pitching and they play a premium position (C, SS, CF). If they play a non-premium position I'd like them to give me a .750 OPS against opposite handed pitching. It is hard to find anything better because anything better tends not to be a bench player.

[gilesfan]

So who would you like as our new bench players. Let's have some suggestions.

Probably should have been more addressed in the offseason.

Players that could possibly have been had:

Lobaton
Mark Reynolds
Jeff Baker
Schumaker
Mcgehee
Reed Johnson
Overbay


I know you aren't going to have great bats on the bench, but you need to have at least a couple that have some type of threat to get a hit. THe Braves historically cheap out or are forced to cheap out on the bench and construct it with fringe prospects and old vets. Or they end up searching for a bat in July.

I really dislike the way the bench is set up currently, but I do agree with the concept of having a 3rd catcher to allow for the backup catcher to hit. (would have worked good with Ross as our backup), but the backup is Laird. Pena isn't good, Pastor is probably a AAA player. Schafer is a good pinch runner I guess. Doumit was a bad move.

Pena is likely the only one that really makes sense as a bench player and can at least contribute.

[gilesfan]

Pena doesn't even have 500 career ABs. Schafer has a little over 1K.

Probably a good reason for that.