*OPENING DAY* 4/6/'15: Atlanta Braves (Teheran) @ Miami Marlins

[Dalyn]

No strikeouts.

[Russ2dollas]

Have to do a better job at splitting up the lefties. Just not sure how it can be done. Sadly, Freeman/Markakis/Peterson are the three best hitters on the team.

chris mother f'n johnson!!!!

[TURBO]

We are Dunn.

[jsebe10]

We are Dunn.

Son of a Dunn

[bravesnumberone]

Again, you had two righties on the bench. If Fredi is going to be committed to jumbling things around, he needs to remain fully committed late in games.

[thethe]

Again, you had two righties on the bench. If Fredi is going to be committed to jumbling things around, he needs to remain fully committed late in games.

Who are you going to pinch hit for there?

[jpx7]

And be flipped for a good long term asset at the deadline.

I'm hoping about half the Braves' bullpen produces well enough to see this be the end-game—not just Johnson and Grilli, but someone like Avilan who should cost legitimate dollars come 2017.

[bravesnumberone]

Who are you going to pinch hit for there?

I think that was an opportunity for Chris Johnson to lead off the inning and get on base. Even if I'd hate to take Jace out. That crap right there was hopeless. It's Mike Dunn, not Billy Wagner in his prime.

[Julio3000]

Who are you going to pinch hit for there?

CJ for Jace, then move Callaspo to 2B and keep Johnson in at 3rd. Then you've got crappier defense. So, nevermind.

[bravesnumberone]

CJ for Jace, then move Callaspo to 2B and keep Johnson in at 3rd. Then you've got crappier defense. So, nevermind.

Without CK, I'd rather risk it and try my best to get an insurance run.

[thethe]

CJ for Jace, then move Callaspo to 2B and keep Johnson in at 3rd. Then you've got crappier defense. So, nevermind.

I just can't see a situation where it makes sense to PH there. I think the Braves are just effed right now against left handed specialists.

[Dalyn]

You definitely hit Johnson there, for sure.

[CrimsonCowboy]

LOL at Dee Gordon!

[thethe]

I'm hoping about half the Braves' bullpen produces well enough to see this be the end-game—not just Johnson and Grilli, but someone like Avilan who should cost legitimate dollars come 2017.

Basically everyone but Julio/Freeman/Simmons(for now) is on the market in the right deal I think right now.

[bravesnumberone]

Lulz. Dee Gordon is destined to be an Atlanta Brave.

[Braves1976]

Gordon has fallen and cannot get up! Great bunt though. :)

[thethe]

If this sets up for a closing situation and Grilli blows it that would just be too perfect.

[Dalyn]

Or even Gomes. That's why they are on the team.

[FreemanFan]

It's nap time for Gordon.

[bravesnumberone]

I just can't see a situation where it makes sense to PH there. I think the Braves are just effed right now against left handed specialists.

AND YOU HAVE A GUY THAT SHREDS THEM ON THE BENCH.

It makes every bit of sense in the world, Fredi.

[CrimsonCowboy]

That wet dirt on the first base line when they forgot to close the roof costs the Marlins.:stupid:

[Dalyn]

I thought he died.

[thethe]

AND YOU HAVE A GUY THAT SHREDS THEM ON THE BENCH.

It makes every bit of sense in the world, Fredi.

But then your defense is awful. With the lead I think you have to play it that way. If its a tie-game or losing then I would agree with you. Braves are going to be better this year at run prevention than run scoring.

[jpx7]

Basically everyone but Julio/Freeman/Simmons(for now) is on the market in the right deal I think right now.

I'd add Wood to that list, personally.

[drewdat]

Sliding headfirst into first is always a losing play.

[Dalyn]

I'd add Wood to that list, personally.

I would trade Teheran before Wood.

[bravesnumberone]

But then your defense is awful. With the lead I think you have to play it that way. If its a tie-game or losing then I would agree with you. Braves are going to be better this year at run prevention than run scoring.

If that's the way you play it, then fine, but the move would have been more than warranted.

[Dalyn]

Sliding headfirst into first is always a losing play.

Especially fifty feet short.

[bravesnumberone]

Alright, let's try to squeeze one across.

[thethe]

I'd add Wood to that list, personally.

I'd want to put him in there as well but its hard to ignore EVERYONE talking about how susceptible he is too injury. I have no clue honestly but aside from that he is absolutely in that list.

[Braves1976]

But then your defense is awful. With the lead I think you have to play it that way. If its a tie-game or losing then I would agree with you. Braves are going to be better this year at run prevention than run scoring.

We also have Gosselin on the bench and last I heard he was pretty solid defensively at second too.

[Julio3000]

AND YOU HAVE A GUY THAT SHREDS THEM ON THE BENCH.

It makes every bit of sense in the world, Fredi.

It's been said many times this offseason, but the more Fredi has to manage, the more he's going to be exposed.

[mossy]

http://i.ytimg.com/vi/3JIHAzU5ylc/maxresdefault.jpg

[NinersSBChamps]

So Chris Johnson isn't on the team anymore?

[mossy]

It's been said many times this offseason, but the more Fredi has to manage, the more he's going to be exposed.

Really? Because you guys certainly don't say it enough. I sincerely hope Fredi doesn't manage too well, since we have nothing else to talk about. Over, and over, and over, and over.....

[jpx7]

Alright, let's try to squeeze one across.

The dump happened yesterday.

[Lville21]

It's Kimbrel time, right?

[Braves1976]

It's been said many times this offseason, but the more Fredi has to manage, the more he's going to be exposed.

Yea, like that hit-and-run with Markakis and Freeman up, Freeman strikes out chasing a bad one. Which you expect him to get plenty of given no protection, but is it his fault that he struck out since Fredi had that play on?

[Garmel]

An awful at bat for Bethancourt.

[Julio3000]

So Chris Johnson isn't on the team anymore?

With any luck, he's been traded.

[jsebe10]

It's been said many times this offseason, but the more Fredi has to manage, the more he's going to be exposed.

Yea...exposing his genitals.

Hasn't he done enough to determine that he's a bone head?

[Dalyn]

With any luck, he's been traded.

I would be willing to bet that there are some heavy talks about just that right now. It would explain why he was held out of the lineup and not used last inning.

[jsebe10]

Good bullpen guys with a fastball 94+ will blow through this lineup.

[Dalyn]

Should've been a walk on four straight.

[Lville21]

Solid first day for Callaspo.

[Dalyn]

Six straight Ks. :Gasp:

[jpx7]

Tangential ejaculation: Is Buddy Carlyle legitimately the Metropolitan closer?!

[CrimsonCowboy]

It's the ninth inning. You know what time it is?:
http://thesaucyculinarian.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/grilled-cheese.jpg#grilled%20cheese%20550x368

[Braves1976]

Bethancourt needs to be hitting 8th.

[emk418]

Bethancourt needs to be hitting 8th.

Yup

[Julio3000]

It's the ninth inning. You know what time it is?:
http://thesaucyculinarian.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/grilled-cheese.jpg#grilled%20cheese%20550x368

Time to wish Jim Johnson had another inning in him?

[Dalyn]

Oh, ****! I've watched Kimbrel save his last game for the Braves. ****ing hell.

[NinersSBChamps]

Time to fire up the Grilli.

[CrimsonCowboy]

WOW!

[NinersSBChamps]

Oh, ****! I've watched Kimbrel save his last game for the Braves. ****ing hell.

Yeah it's sad.

[Tapate50]

Ugh, that was a silly breaking ball to Morse

[jpx7]

Oh, ****! I've watched Kimbrel save his last game for the Braves. ****ing hell.

Yeah it's sad.

Sadder still, perhaps, because we had no inkling.

[Tapate50]

Sadder still, perhaps, because we had no inkling.

Sturg tried to tell us all along

[TURBO]

WE WIN!!!
http://media1.giphy.com/media/4wMlW2RcOCVCU/giphy.gif

[CrimsonCowboy]

http://i.imgur.com/P6x0U.gif

[NinersSBChamps]

162-0

[emk418]

Umm...Grilli looked damn good

[Garmel]

Kimbrel, who? Kidding of course.

[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)

[Tapate50]

Nice!
Can't win em all if you don't win the first one!

[keithlaw]

Sturg tried to tell us all along

https://img.4plebs.org/boards/pol/image/1385/90/1385905682886.jpg

[Braves1976]

Enjoy the win and winning record while it lasts boys! :)

[Julio3000]

http://i1239.photobucket.com/albums/ff511/poinsett/84235576-69a8-489e-8ff4-315329bf1804_zps7d5d95d7.jpg

[Lville21]

3 Johnsons are on the team.

Is there anyway we can reacquire Elliot Johnson? I want the Braves to corner the Johnson market.

[Krovahn]

Baseball wise, good game and good win... Still miss Kimbrel, though. Lets go get them tomorrow and take the series. Whole lotta good pitching today, hope it continues!

[FreemanFan]

There is life after Kimbrel! Braves WIN!

[keithlaw]

Odd not to have Kimbrel takin us to the pay windah

[rico43]

Enjoy the win and winning record while it lasts boys! :)

Just go away for a little while and make sure Niners is with you. We get to enjoy this without reservation. A helluva opening day win.

[JusticeForAll23]

Well, for at least one day this season we can say we were in 1st place and undefeated.

Suck it haters!

[jpx7]

Sturg tried to tell us all along

Well I meant no inkling during the 2014 season, which was the last time we saw him pitch. As soon as the Brvaes traded Heyward and started floating "2017", I too advocated trading Kimbrel.

[NinersSBChamps]

I am not that worried about the closer spot. Both Johnson and Grilli have been successful as closers before. If we need to use a closer by committee, so be it.

Just throw a big Johnson on the Grilli.

[Julio3000]

Just throw a big Johnson on the Grilli.

Que?

/Alberto Callaspo

[Dalyn]

Really enjoyed the game. Several positives. Nice win! :tchop:

[Braves1976]

Just go away for a little while and make sure Niners is with you. We get to enjoy this without reservation. A helluva opening day win.

Lighten up Francis, you're starting to act like Heyward!

[jpx7]

3 Johnsons are on the team.

Is there anyway we can reacquire Elliot Johnson? I want the Braves to corner the Johnson market.

See, usually the Johnson market is on the corner.

[Julio3000]

See, usually the Johnson market is on the corner.

http://i1239.photobucket.com/albums/ff511/poinsett/33040275-d1b2-4cc9-a940-75a89a30e3d4_zps3406f10f.jpg

[rico43]

Almost as enjoyable was watching Big Fat Colon smack down the Nats with eight strikeouts.

[jpx7]

http://i1239.photobucket.com/albums/ff511/poinsett/33040275-d1b2-4cc9-a940-75a89a30e3d4_zps3406f10f.jpg

/smallball

[Barnes]

http://i1239.photobucket.com/albums/ff511/poinsett/84235576-69a8-489e-8ff4-315329bf1804_zps7d5d95d7.jpg

Excuse me please. Could someone explain this Chip reference to me. I laugh every time i see it, but I don't know what I'm laughing about.

[Dalyn]

Almost as enjoyable was watching Big Fat Colon smack down the Nats with eight strikeouts.

He's definitely still cheating, but it's fun to watch.

[Julio3000]

Boys, this was ABC posting today. Good fundamentals, speed and timely posting.

[jpx7]

Almost as enjoyable was watching Big Fat Colon smack down the Nats with eight strikeouts.

Agreed. In a down year for Atlanta, seeing Washington fail to win the division would be nice consolation.

[Dalyn]

Excuse me please. Could someone explain this Chip reference to me. I laugh every time i see it, but I don't know what I'm laughing about.


Chip also laughs all the time without knowing why.

[AerchAngel]

I know it is just the first game. Well Dunn was on, you just have to tip your cap. But this team will compete, I can see it. We have no power but slapping, punching, taking the extra base, bunting and trying to do the small things can be exciting as well.

....but, no way in heck you should have Christian Brothers VSOP batting 5th.

[Dalyn]

Boys, this was ABC posting today. Good fundamentals, speed and timely posting.

Now we just need to teach our big guy how to post with no protection.

[Braves1976]

....but, no way in heck you should have Christian Brothers VSOP batting 5th.

Someone has to protect Freeman. :)

Seriously, yea that was a surprise even with Fredi. Hopefully Bethancourt is hitting 8th tomorrow.

[sturg33]

Didn't we win last year's opener 2-1?

[jsebe10]

Excuse me please. Could someone explain this Chip reference to me. I laugh every time i see it, but I don't know what I'm laughing about.

Oh man. Lol

[Braves1976]

Didn't we win last year's opener 2-1?

Nah, we lost it to the Brewers then came back and won the series including a 1-0 win by Harang. CJ actually hit a solo homer in that game to win it, which is interesting to note given how badly his season went after that.

[thethe]

Boys, this was ABC posting today. Good fundamentals, speed and timely posting.

Screw Makakis...we set the tone for the season.

[Julio3000]

Excuse me please. Could someone explain this Chip reference to me. I laugh every time i see it, but I don't know what I'm laughing about.

There have been a few iterations of it. This was the original:

http://i1239.photobucket.com/albums/ff511/poinsett/541afd13-4420-43e7-8829-5e9e7a8a2280_zps0ddc3997.jpg

Then came the Chip Caray pantsless cocaine party jokes, an obsession of mine which kinda took on a life of its own. I used to post the above as good juju after a win, but someone (Zito, I think) suggested that Chip be—of course—pantless in the booth. I added some fat rails of coke just to up the ante a bit. "Feel Me" is a joke that derives from the gentleman who ran us all away from . . . another Braves board.

I should note that the tagline changes if Chip says something particularly memorable.

[Julio3000]

Screw Makakis...we set the tone for the season.

We did the little things.

[jsebe10]

There have been a few iterations of it. This was the original:

http://i1239.photobucket.com/albums/ff511/poinsett/541afd13-4420-43e7-8829-5e9e7a8a2280_zps0ddc3997.jpg

Then came the Chip Caray pantsless cocaine party jokes, an obsession of mine which kinda took on a life of their own. I used to post the above as good juju after a win, but someone (Zito, I think) suggested that Chip be—of course—pantless in the booth. I added some fat rails of coke just to up the ante a bit. "Feel Me" is a joke that derives from the gentleman who ran us all away from . . . another Braves board.

Hahaha

Tribute to PattioDouchio....that fckn guy.

[Barnes]

Thank you Julio. I thought I had missed some strange real life events.

[Braves1976]

Peterson had a nice debut getting the first hit, scoring the first run, great bunt setting up another, great bare hand turn of a DP and caught the line drive by Prado for the last out.

[jsebe10]

Christ Fredi! Said in his post game:

"I think we only struck out 3 times or not even that"

[Russ2dollas]

The Nats started Dan Uggla and lost...........bwahhhhahhha

Braves win! How about a miracle team staying in it to the trading deadline and then more hand wringing and calling for Hart's death when we sell off all the pieces....

[Julio3000]

Thank you Julio. I thought I had missed some strange real life events.

What, you don't think Chip Caray is a dissolute cokehead?

[Julio3000]

Julio Teheran is an impressive young man.

[Dalyn]

Christ Fredi! Said in his post game:

"I think we only struck out 3 times or not even that"

All jokes aside, he completely ruins any excitement I have regarding this team's future.

[emk418]

Sure would be nice if Grilli pitches like this until the deadline

[jsebe10]

All jokes aside, he completely ruins any excitement I have regarding this team's future.

No doubt. He's a moron

[Braves1976]

Sure would be nice if Grilli pitches like this until the deadline

Yea, it would be nice if he did and we got a nice return in a trade. Same goes for Johnson of course.

[weso1]

Grilli really did look good out there. Biggest question with him obviously is health.

[CrimsonCowboy]

So, about the rain delay:

Barry Jackson @flasportsbuzz · 2h 2 hours ago
Marlins president Samson said he has weather APPs on his phone. "I tried to predict cloud would go north and it went south on..stadium."

Barry Jackson @flasportsbuzz · 2h 2 hours ago
Samson said when he told Loria there would be rain delay, Loria said: "I thought we have a roof." Samson:"I said that's a reasonable answer"

Barry Jackson @flasportsbuzz · 2h 2 hours ago
Marlins don't have a meteorologist consultant. Instead, three team executives monitor weather forecasts on APPs.

:facepalm:

[thethe]

So, about the rain delay:

Barry Jackson @flasportsbuzz · 2h 2 hours ago
Marlins president Samson said he has weather APPs on his phone. "I tried to predict cloud would go north and it went south on..stadium."

Barry Jackson @flasportsbuzz · 2h 2 hours ago
Samson said when he told Loria there would be rain delay, Loria said: "I thought we have a roof." Samson:"I said that's a reasonable answer"

Barry Jackson @flasportsbuzz · 2h 2 hours ago
Marlins don't have a meteorologist consultant. Instead, three team executives monitor weather forecasts on APPs.

:facepalm:

What a joke.

[keithlaw]

So, about the rain delay:

Barry Jackson @flasportsbuzz · 2h 2 hours ago
Marlins president Samson said he has weather APPs on his phone. "I tried to predict cloud would go north and it went south on..stadium."

Barry Jackson @flasportsbuzz · 2h 2 hours ago
Samson said when he told Loria there would be rain delay, Loria said: "I thought we have a roof." Samson:"I said that's a reasonable answer"

Barry Jackson @flasportsbuzz · 2h 2 hours ago
Marlins don't have a meteorologist consultant. Instead, three team executives monitor weather forecasts on APPs.

:facepalm:

Really he was just hoping the delay would go long enough so Juliowns couldn't start.

[Julio3000]

Barry Jackson @flasportsbuzz · 2h 2 hours ago
Marlins don't have a meteorologist consultant. Instead, three team executives monitor weather forecasts on APPs.

:facepalm:

Criminy.

Granted, that's mindbogglingly awful, but we probably have no cause to throw stones, since Dan Uggla's medical treatment was apparently left up to junior staff with Google and WebMD.

[AerchAngel]

Criminy.

Granted, that's mindbogglingly awful, but we probably have no cause to throw stones, since Dan Uggla's medical treatment was apparently left up to junior staff with Google and WebMD.

Did I just not warn you Julio? My stomach just got patched up a few months ago and laughing hurts it and you are bad for my stomach.

:dance:

[ChapelHillMatt]

All jokes aside, he completely ruins any excitement I have regarding this team's future.

I doubt he's here when we get good again....that being said I don't see anything wrong with that quote. Ya'll are nitpicking again. What's wrong with him building his team up and looking for positives?

[Heyward]

Agreed. In a down year for Atlanta, seeing Washington fail to win the division would be nice consolation.

They'll win the division by default but would be nice to see them choke in the playoffs again.

ESPN overhypes the living crap out of them.

[Heyward]

Lighten up Francis, you're starting to act like Heyward!

Ironically i've been more positive about the Braves than most/some on here.

[cajunrevenge]

We might lose the war but it just feels so satisfying to lead the Nats in the division. You never know.

[Heyward]

Good win though, not that worried about the SP for the most part.

Bullpen/offense OTOH oh boy....

[Braves1976]

Ironically i've been more positive about the Braves than most/some on here.

How can you claim that after you agreed with Niners so much during the off-season? :)

[Braves1976]

Good win though, not that worried about the SP for the most part.

Bullpen/offense OTOH oh boy....

I actually don't disagree with you at all here.

[TDlxANDER]

Boys, this was ABC posting today. Good fundamentals, speed and timely posting.

Fast posting never slumps

[Heyward]

How can you claim that after you agreed with Niners so much during the off-season? :)

I agreed with most of the deals, minus a few.

They made so many, it's hard to keep track :)

[Dalyn]

I doubt he's here when we get good again....that being said I don't see anything wrong with that quote. Ya'll are nitpicking again. What's wrong with him building his team up and looking for positives?

It doesn't bother you that he thought we had less than three ks when we actually had seven and six in a row at one point? And three by Dunn all by himself.

[Braves1976]

I agreed with most of the deals, minus a few.

They made so many, it's hard to keep track :)

I wasn't talking about the trades. I was talking about what you said about the next few years in agreement with Niners, etc.

[Heyward]

I wasn't talking about the trades. I was talking about what you said about the next few years in agreement with Niners, etc.

Odds are we arent gonna be very good the next 2 years.

There isnt a ton to be excited about right now but we have the money to make some splashes next winter.

[CrimsonCowboy]

The day was a complete train-wreck for the Marlins.

http://www.foxsports.com/buzzer/video/miami-marlins-mlb-opening-day-michael-buffer-040615?vid=423866435966

[Braves1976]

Odds are we arent gonna be very good the next 2 years.

There isnt a ton to be excited about right now but we have the money to make some splashes next winter.

I held out more hope for 2016 before some of the last few trades, but now not so much because it's no longer just our offense that concerns me. It's also our bullpen so I am afraid we mostly agree now. Then again most of our issues have been over Fredi so we still have that, lol.

[ChapelHillMatt]

It doesn't bother you that he thought we had less than three ks when we actually had seven and six in a row at one point? And three by Dunn all by himself.

Oops.....that's what I get for posting at work. I just assumed we didn't have a lot of k's, I thought he was trying to look for positives to give his team confidence. Aren't you supposed to look at the box score before you talk to the press or at least have it in front of you? I stand corrected.

[NinersSBChamps]

How can you claim that after you agreed with Niners so much during the off-season? :)

He was smart before. Now he isn't. :)

[Dalyn]

Oops.....that's what I get for posting at work. I just assumed we didn't have a lot of k's, I thought he was trying to look for positives to give his team confidence. Aren't you supposed to look at the box score before you talk to the press or at least have it in front of you? I stand corrected.

Yeah. If he was right, I definitely wouldn't have a problem with it.

[Braves1976]

He was smart before. Now he isn't. :)

Haha, you're consistent whether we agree or disagree. I respect that. :)

[Heyward]

I held out more hope for 2016 before some of the last few trades, but now not so much because it's no longer just our offense that concerns me. It's also our bullpen so I am afraid we mostly agree now. Then again most of our issues have been over Fredi so we still have that, lol.

We have alot of money available next year, so who knows what they could get.

Probably not a Ces/JUp/Heyward type but probably need to use some of the pitching to trade for a power hitter.

Could sign a Span/Fowler type, trade for one, reload the pen, and maybe sign a SP.

But without Kimbrel now, i agree.

Regarding Fredi, hard to tell now.

[The Chosen One]

Fredi is going lead us to the playoffs. Managerial season we'll be talking about for the ages.

[Braves1976]

Fredi is going lead us to the playoffs. Managerial season we'll be talking about for the ages.

Haha, I respect your consistency too Jeff. However, I think you're dreaming if serious. :)

[NinersSBChamps]

Fredi is going lead us to the playoffs. Managerial season we'll be talking about for the ages.

Can you say this more please?

[buck75]

Only 81 more wins needed for a winning record!

[The Chosen One]

Can you say this more please?

I'll be sure to reiterate it in a few weeks when you say this team is toast.

[Braves1976]

I'll be sure to reiterate it in a few weeks when you say this team is toast.

I'd say both of y'all have your shtick going like clockwork. :)

[The Chosen One]

I'd say both of y'all have your thing going like clockwork. :)

I think San Diego's experiment is going to backfire on them. I don't think the Giants will luck in again. I think the Cubbies will disappoint with all the hype even after they call up Bryant. I think the Pirates will regress. Cincinnati will continue to regress. Washington likely wins the division, and the Marlins are a question mark. Lots of talent but can they keep it together for an entire season.

We actually have some veterans, even though they're not great quality. I think we may catch lightening in a bottle and luck into the playoffs. I'm expecting a huge season from Julio and Alex, especially a big one from Wood. I think our bullpen will surprise. It won't be the O'ventbrel days, but it will be steady enough not to hurt us from getting one of the wild card spots at minimum. Peraza could give us a boost if he figures it out downstairs, and we have tons of money to play with at the deadline with tons of prospects who we can ship right back out. Plus, we have Fredi.

[NinersSBChamps]

I'll be sure to reiterate it in a few weeks when you say this team is toast.

A few weeks? I said that months ago.

[The Chosen One]

Say what you want about the lack of quality hitting on this team, we do have a bunch of guys with heart who are going to grind it out there win or lose. We may win games ugly and then get shut out a bunch, but at least my expectations are already low compared to last year where I expected us to win a wild card spot, and we constantly disappointed.

EY may not be a great player, but I expect him to hustle and try to make things happen (I just wish it wasn't from the leadoff spot). Maybe Maybin figures it out and gets hot at the right time and boots EY from the starting spot. EY still is an ok bench player for you to have. Kelly may be able to teach some of the young kids the old Braves way seeing as how he was here for 4 seasons and learned under Bobby.

Jace is going to be refreshing to watch. 3rd base is the only position on this team I have absolutely no interest in paying attention to.

[Braves1976]

Anyone got any guesses on who replaces Kimbrel long-term?

[Heyward]

I think San Diego's experiment is going to backfire on them. I don't think the Giants will luck in again. I think the Cubbies will disappoint with all the hype even after they call up Bryant. I think the Pirates will regress. Cincinnati will continue to regress. Washington likely wins the division, and the Marlins are a question mark. Lots of talent but can they keep it together for an entire season.

We actually have some veterans, even though they're not great quality. I think we may catch lightening in a bottle and luck into the playoffs. I'm expecting a huge season from Julio and Alex, especially a big one from Wood. I think our bullpen will surprise. It won't be the O'ventbrel days, but it will be steady enough not to hurt us from getting one of the wild card spots at minimum. Peraza could give us a boost if he figures it out downstairs, and we have tons of money to play with at the deadline with tons of prospects who we can ship right back out. Plus, we have Fredi.

The offense is really bad.

Minus Freeman, you really dont know what you'll get.

CB isnt very good on offense, Jace is a rookie, Simba is eh, Callapso/CJ (puke), Markakis, Maybin, EYJ, Gomes is a decent outfield.

The offense just has too many concerns to compete for a WC even if the SP is great.

[Heyward]

Anyone got any guesses on who replaces Kimbrel long-term?

Simmons, or one of the young SP's they acquired who will be moved to the pen long-term.

Maybe Manny or Folty, or someone else.

[cajunrevenge]

Anyone got any guesses on who replaces Kimbrel long-term?

One of Folty/Sims/Simmons/Jenkins/Hursh.

[Braves1976]

Simmons, or one of the young SP's they acquired who will be moved to the pen long-term.

Maybe Manny or Folty, or someone else.

I could see Simmons depending on how his recovery and comeback from TJS goes. I also thought Viz had the potential but who knows how all the missed time will effect him and what will happen with him after the PED suspension. I don't see it with Man-Ban though I like him, nor do I see it with Folty. But I agree both could end up in the bullpen. Further, John Cornely might be a candidate to get a shot too if he keeps up what he did in Mississippi last year in Gwinnett.

[Braves1976]

One of Folty/Sims/Simmons/Jenkins/Hursh.

I like Sims chances at making it as a starter. I could see both Jenkins and Hursh getting a shot if they end up in the bullpen.

[bravesnumberone]

Hope springs eternal for at least one more day. Staving off elimination.

[CrimsonCowboy]

I haven't seen anyone post it yet, and it disappoints me in all of you, so I guess I'm going to be that guy:

BRAVES MAGIC NUMBER IS 161!

[VirginiaBrave]

Anyone got any guesses on who replaces Kimbrel long-term?

Based on what Hart said pregame today, I would say if he is healthy Craig Kimbrel is the likely candidate. John told Jenn Hildreth to remember that he brought Lofton home to Cleveland after his stay in Atlanta.

[CyYoung31]

I'm sad that I didn't get to participate in this GDT. :(

Great work, fellas. :)

[TomahawkCult]

Christ Fredi! Said in his post game:

"I think we only struck out 3 times or not even that"

FWIW (I didn't hear Fredi postgame), an AJC quote has it as, "I think we only struck out 3 times... before Dunn came in."

[Tapate50]

Chris Johnson was discouraged by not being in the lineup yesterday if anyone cares.

[The Chosen One]

Chris Johnson was discouraged by not being in the lineup yesterday if anyone cares.

He told the media he didn't want to be a clubhouse problem, so he was going to shut his mouth and cheer on the guys.

Kind of defeated the purpose already.

[zbhargrove]

He told the media he didn't want to be a clubhouse problem, so he was going to shut his mouth and cheer on the guys.

Kind of defeated the purpose already.

If we could get rid of him for anything... I'd be ecstatic

[gilesfan]

Well, he has to understand Callaspo needed some at bats.

At least that's what Fredi told us.

[jpx7]

Chris Johnson was discouraged by not being in the lineup yesterday if anyone cares.

He cares; not sure who else might, though.

[Dalyn]

Anyone got any guesses on who replaces Kimbrel long-term?

People will tell you it's someone in this organization right now, but I think we'll sign Neftali Felix at the end of 2016. Clark wants him back.

[Julio3000]

He told the media he didn't want to be a clubhouse problem, so he was going to shut his mouth and cheer on the guys.

Kind of defeated the purpose already.

I don't mean to insult you, Chris, but you kinda suck.

[WaitingFor2017]

Callaspo made the biggest defensive play of the day. I wonder how Chris Johnson would've fared with that play.

[Strike3urout]

Callaspo made the biggest defensive play of the day. I wonder how Chris Johnson would've fared with that play.

Chris would have started an around-the-horn triple play, duh.

[The Chosen One]

Callaspo made the biggest defensive play of the day. I wonder how Chris Johnson would've fared with that play.

How many user names is this now?

[bravesnumberone]

Chris Johnson was discouraged by not being in the lineup yesterday if anyone cares.

That's cool. Get better and stop swinging at every single low and outside pitch, and you can start them all.

[Julio3000]

So what's the consensus on last night's showing? More piss, or more vinegar?

[gilesfan]

So what's the consensus on last night's showing? More piss, or more vinegar?

vinegar

[Tapate50]

So what's the consensus on last night's showing? More piss, or more vinegar?

Really can't have enough of either

[Oklahomahawk]

Really can't have enough of either

Doesn't a good amount of the one often lead to a good amount of the other?

[WaitingFor2017]

More piss if EYJR continues to start over Maybin. At least Maybin could be in our future plans in 2017 whereas EYJR won't be with this team past 2015. EYJR had the better game yesterday, but that is such a small sample size.

[The Chosen One]

More piss if EYJR continues to start over Maybin. At least Maybin could be in our future plans in 2017 whereas EYJR won't be with this team past 2015. EYJR had the better game yesterday, but that is such a small sample size.

You know it's just easier to tell me you want to change your username instead of creating these accounts.

[NinersSBChamps]

You know it's just easier to tell me you want to change your username instead of creating these accounts.

...so easy to get a name change around here.

I kid.

[gilesfan]

You know it's just easier to tell me you want to change your username instead of creating these accounts.

can you change my name to Callaspofan?

[The Chosen One]

...so easy to get a name change around here.

I kid.

You can't change yours. You're too infamous under that moniker. It'd be like BJ Upton changing to Melvin Upton.

[The Chosen One]

can you change my name to Callaspofan?

Only one I'd consider is HarperLove34. Or just plain harperfan.

[50PoundHead]

I'd rather have Callaspo than Chris Johnson just about any day.

[gilesfan]

Only one I'd consider is HarperLove34. Or just plain harperfan.

ok, that works.

[The Chosen One]

ok, that works.

On second thought you too are infamous with this handle. 12 yeats as gilesfan. Can't allow this.

[Orphan Black]

EYJr beating that throw home was pretty crazy...seems like any time an infielder does everything right they get that guy, but not in that case.

Also Bethancourt throwing out Dee Gordon...great throw.

[Tapate50]

EYJr beating that throw home was pretty crazy...seems like any time an infielder does everything right they get that guy, but not in that case.

Also Bethancourt throwing out Dee Gordon...great throw.

Can't measure GRIT!

[ESP47]

Whats with you guys and Cameron Maybin? The guy is awful. His career year was in 2011 and even that year he was bad. He can't get on base, doesn't hit for contact, doesn't hit for power and doesn't steal bases anymore. Young is a little faster, Maybin has a little more power. Neither have a future on a winning team. There is no diamond in the rough here.

[gilesfan]

Whats with you guys and Cameron Maybin? The guy is awful. His career year was in 2011 and even that year he was bad. He can't get on base, doesn't hit for contact, doesn't hit for power and doesn't steal bases anymore. Young is a little faster, Maybin has a little more power. Neither have a future on a winning team. There is no diamond in the rough here.

Maybin is bad, but not Eric Young level bad.

Though, boom Young has a .500 slugging percentage in 2015.

[Tapate50]

Whats with you guys and Cameron Maybin? The guy is awful. His career year was in 2011 and even that year he was bad. He can't get on base, doesn't hit for contact, doesn't hit for power and doesn't steal bases anymore. Young is a little faster, Maybin has a little more power. Neither have a future on a winning team. There is no diamond in the rough here.

I am not sure you have seen who we are trotting out there in the OF. He isn't much, but we don't have much.

[Julio3000]

I am not sure you have seen who we are trotting out there in the OF. He isn't much, but we don't have much.

^ that ^

[gilesfan]

I am not sure you have seen who we are trotting out there in the OF. He isn't much, but we don't have much.

Eric Young doesn't trot.

[Tapate50]

Eric Young doesn't trot.

I need someone to photoshop a horse trotting on Huddy's ankle, stat.

[Tapate50]

^ that ^

I mean, half of camp we still expected a guy that never showed up to win a spot on the 25 man!

[ESP47]

I am not sure you have seen who we are trotting out there in the OF. He isn't much, but we don't have much.

I'm just saying there's no need for anyone to get all butt hurt about Maybin playing or not. Some people here are acting like we have this guy with huge potential being blocked by EY. None of these guys are any good or have much potential at this point. We probably go into extra innings yesterday because there's no way anyone gets by that throw from 2nd base other than EY.

[Tapate50]

I'm just saying there's no need for anyone to get all butt hurt about Maybin playing or not. Some people here are acting like we have this guy with huge potential being blocked by EY. None of these guys are any good or have much potential at this point. We probably go into extra innings yesterday because there's no way anyone gets by that throw from 2nd base other than EY.

I don't think anyone is butt hurt. I think the general consensus is he isn't very good. That said, it wouldn't hurt to find out if it was injuries or Petco that MAY (emphasis on MAY) have diminished his output. If not, no big deal and Eric Young can go a trottin' on out there. The downside is...well there isn't much of one because he isn't taking meaningful AB's from ANYONE on this roster.

[Julio3000]

I'm just saying there's no need for anyone to get all butt hurt about Maybin playing or not. Some people here are acting like we have this guy with huge potential being blocked by EY. None of these guys are any good or have much potential at this point. We probably go into extra innings yesterday because there's no way anyone gets by that throw from 2nd base other than EY.

EY shouldn't be in a position to block anyone who is better—who is potentially better—than EY. Eury Perez may be better. Todd Cunningham may be better. Maybin is better. Even if he's not a prospect anymore, he's been an injury-prone guy who still may have some upside. He's signed for next year, too, so unless we plan to DFA him, it would be useful to play him to see if he can rebuild any value.

Like MFII said in another thread—information is more valuable to us this season than the odd win here and there. EY has 1500 MLB PAs. He's not going to put up a decent offensive season outside of Coors Field, and he's not a good defender in CF. He is a 1-tool player.

We probably go into extra innings yesterday because there's no way anyone gets by that throw from 2nd base other than EY.

Well, you can play that game all day. If Todd Cunningham were starting yesterday, he might have hit a HR.

[thethe]

David O'Brien ‏@DOBrienAJC 13m13 minutes ago
#Braves opener drew 3.3 rating on SportSouth in Atlanta market, up 50 percent from last year's opener, a 2 p.m. game at Milwaukee

[ESP47]

EY shouldn't be in a position to block anyone who is better—who is potentially better—than EY. Eury Perez may be better. Todd Cunningham may be better. Maybin is better. Even if he's not a prospect anymore, he's been an injury-prone guy who still may have some upside. He's signed for next year, too, so unless we plan to DFA him, it would be useful to play him to see if he can rebuild any value.

Like MFII said in another thread—information is more valuable to us this season than the odd win here and there. EY has 1500 MLB PAs. He's not going to put up a decent offensive season outside of Coors Field, and he's not a good defender in CF. He is a 1-tool player.

We probably go into extra innings yesterday because there's no way anyone gets by that throw from 2nd base other than EY.

Well, you can play that game all day. If Todd Cunningham were starting yesterday, he might have hit a HR.

We might as well turn it around on Markakis, Kelly Johnson, Chris Johnson, Alberto Callaspo and the rest of these guys not named Freeman or Simmons. We can play that same game with the rest of the roster too. Cameron Maybin and EY are both bad baseball players. It really doesn't matter who plays. The information on Maybin has been out for a while, he's a bust. Young had a good spring as well and could end up batting .300 and get himself traded at the deadline as well.

That throw from 2nd is an out at the plate almost every time. Saying no one else would have scored when the fastest guy on the team beat the throw by a split second is a hell of a lot different than throwing out a hypothetical Cunningham HR. Todd Cunningham didn't hit a home run. EY actually played and scored the game winning run.

[thethe]

I guess fans support the plan.

[The Chosen One]

David O'Brien ‏@DOBrienAJC 13m13 minutes ago
#Braves opener drew 3.3 rating on SportSouth in Atlanta market, up 50 percent from last year's opener, a 2 p.m. game at Milwaukee

Fans can sense the excitement.

[Dalyn]

I guess fans support the plan.

I think all these major changes draw the curious, but only winning will keep the majority of them watching. Has very little, if anything, to do with support.

[Hawk]

I am butthurt about Maybin not playing.

We're not paying Eric Young $24MM guaranteed over the course of the next three years.

Seeing whether or not Maybin can produce is much more imperative than trying to ascertain whether or not EY is a better player (hint: he isn't).

BTW, I should add: I like Eric Young a lot -- his brand of baseball, his skillset, etc., so I hope he is given a lot of playing time on the corners.

[Dalyn]

I am butthurt about Maybin not playing.

We're not paying Eric Young $24MM guaranteed over the course of the next three years.

Seeing whether or not Maybin can produce is much more imperative than trying to ascertain whether or not EY is a better player (hint: he isn't).

BUT HE HAD A DOUBLE.

[thethe]

I think all these major changes draw the curious, but only winning will keep the majority of them watching. Has very little, if anything, to do with support.

Agreed.

[gilesfan]

BUT HE HAD A DOUBLE.

and he;s the only one that could have scored that run.

The Bethancourt batting 5th thing is real, apparently.

[emk418]

Are we really planning on playing KJ this much?

[Dalyn]

and he;s the only one that could have scored that run.

I was surprised as **** that he made it in there.

[Dalyn]

The Bethancourt batting 5th thing is real, apparently.

Doesn't surprise me now.

[Hawk]

The Bethancourt batting 5th thing is real, apparently.

Should be where Carlos Quentin is hitting.

(tongue in cheek)

[Dalyn]

Should be where Carlos Quentin is hitting.

(tongue in butt cheek)

:Gasp:

[gilesfan]

I was surprised as **** that he made it in there.

Salty took about 3 days to make the tag so it worked out well.

[gilesfan]

Are we really planning on playing KJ this much?

We need a left handed hitter to protect Bethancourt.

[Julio3000]

I am butthurt about Maybin not playing.

We're not paying Eric Young $24MM guaranteed over the course of the next three years.

Seeing whether or not Maybin can produce is much more imperative than trying to ascertain whether or not EY is a better player (hint: he isn't).

BTW, I should add: I like Eric Young a lot -- his brand of baseball, his skillset, etc., so I hope he is given a lot of playing time on the corners.

I agree wholeheartedly with that EY disclaimer. I like the guy too. He's a good guy to have on the team, I love the speed, and I think he should get some reps. I just don't think you should be the every day starter in CF.