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

[The Chosen One]

Fredi does not disappoint.

https://fbcdn-photos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfp1/v/t1.0-0/11146260_10152844480637831_7817061573774727066_n.p ng?efg=eyJpIjoidCJ9&oh=d0c2789ae5e05a59a11f5ba53dd3bd68&oe=55A67367&__gda__=1437508866_ed44c2e58ce54d6998a59943a9552e8 5

EY Jr
Peterson
Markakis
Freeman
Bethancourt (LOL)
Kelly
Callaspo
SIMMONS
Teheran

[Lenny]

That's interesting.

[Dalyn]

Bethancourt #5. Didn't see that one coming.

[zitothebrave]

So wait, Nick Markakis displaces Freddie from the 3 spot, but Jason didn't? Fredi is one racist mofo.

[The Chosen One]

So wait, Nick Markakis displaces Freddie from the 3 spot, but Jason didn't? Fredi is one racist mofo.

In fairness, we didn't have a real leadoff hitter like we do now with EY so Heyward couldn't hit 3.

[thethe]

Braves really believe in CB it seems. Hope his power can show up in games finally.

NEW BRAVES SEASON!!!!

[nsacpi]

Expecting a huge game from Bethancourt.

[Russ2dollas]

In fairness, we didn't have a real leadoff hitter like we do now with EY so Heyward couldn't hit 3.

Not sure if I should be disappointed given the lack of options Fredi has....but he puts a lot of stock in spring numbers.

EY leading off, CB hitting 5......this is going to suck.

Maybe we'll just inflate all of the division rival's pitcher's numbers......yea that's the plan.

[yeezus]

Welp, not how I'd construct the lineup. But, it's opening day, and it's beautiful outside. I'm stuck in work, but these are still good things.

[zitothebrave]

What are the odds that Freddie Freeman leads baseball in walks?

Last year he was 5th, but had Justin and Gattis behind him so people really didn't want to give him a freepass. Now he has the likes of Kelly Johnson, Chris Johnson, Callaspo, Simmons, and Bethancourt, if one of them is a league average hitter I'll be shocked.

[MadduxFanII]

The Braves' Facebook post with the lineup reads:

"‪#‎BravesAreBack‬ today, and we've got a clubhouse full of guys ready to give their all for Braves Country!"

Ah, the perpetual Opening Day fallback slogan of the re-building team. "The 2015 Atlanta Braves: They're Gonna Try!"

[emk418]

I'm going to be patient with Fredi but he always baffles me with lineups. Simmons 8? KJ and Callaspo ahead of him? Very odd.

[emk418]

I really want to see Maybin given a shot.

[yeezus]

The Braves' Facebook post with the lineup reads:

"‪#‎BravesAreBack‬ today, and we've got a clubhouse full of guys ready to give their all for Braves Country!"

Ah, the perpetual Opening Day fallback slogan of the re-building team. "The 2015 Atlanta Braves: They're Gonna Try!"

I mean, that's just pretty standard stuff for, like, any team ever.

[The Chosen One]

And so begins... one of the greatest managerial seasons we'll be talking about for the ages.

[Dalyn]

What are the odds that Freddie Freeman leads baseball in walks?

Last year he was 5th, but had Justin and Gattis behind him so people really didn't want to give him a freepass. Now he has the likes of Kelly Johnson, Chris Johnson, Callaspo, Simmons, and Bethancourt, if one of them is a league average hitter I'll be shocked.

If Jaime pitches 80 games, he'll have more. :YDS:

[yeezus]

I really want to see Maybin given a shot.

I'm hoping he's just not yet available. No reason he shouldn't get a majority of the starts.

[Dalyn]

I'm hoping he's just not yet available. No reason he shouldn't get a majority of the starts.

But we need a Jr. in CF. That's the rules.

[MadduxFanII]

I mean, that's just pretty standard stuff for, like, any team ever.

To an extent, sure. But usually competitive teams will say something like, "The Atlanta Braves: Beasts of the East," or "The Atlanta Braves and Julio Teheran: Pitching For Greatness."

[yeezus]

But we need a Jr. in CF. That's the rules.

:fredi:

[yeezus]

To an extent, sure. But usually competitive teams will say something like, "The Atlanta Braves: Beasts of the East," or "The Atlanta Braves and Julio Teheran: Pitching For Greatness."

OH OK!!!

[yeezus]

To an extent, sure. But usually competitive teams will say something like, "The Atlanta Braves: Beasts of the East," or "The Atlanta Braves and Julio Teheran: Pitching For Greatness."


Los Angeles Dodgers
2 hrs ·
Anything can happen. ‪#‎OpeningDayLA‬

ANYTHING CAN HAPPEN GUESS THAT MEANS THE DODGERS THINK THEY'RE A LONG SHOT HUH

[thethe]

6-2 win for the Bravos today!

Freeman with a 2 run homer and run scoring 2B.

Peterson on base 3 times and scores 2 runs.

[TomahawkCult]

Ah! Braves baseball. I'm more than ready. It will be fun listening to Jim and Don on the drive home.

[weso1]

Freeman will walk 800 times this season.

[UNCBlue012]

Well, I'm so excited to see the team, knowing anything can happen! But I also knoe that a lineup that has Bethancourt 5th can't be good. That being said, even with the platoon, I think CJ should be in the 5th spot.

[Julio3000]

I really want to 'shop Bethancourt's head onto my old Gerald Laird "FIF" pic, but I just don't love baseball enough right now.

Here it is, if anyone else feels up to it:

http://i1239.photobucket.com/albums/ff511/poinsett/gerald_fif_zps666bc1a5.jpg

[yeezus]

I just don't love baseball

AHA!
I always had my doubts.

[The Chosen One]

For someone who hustles as much as Heyward does, you'd think he would love baseball. Just a farce.

[sturg33]

I'm at least encouraged that he's platooning Gomes and CJ... That's progress

[sturg33]

It will only make sense that Fredi becomes a competent manager when we don't have the talent to do anything with it

[Dalyn]

It will only make sense that Fredi becomes a competent manager when we don't have the talent to do anything with it

I wouldn't worry about that too much.

[Hawk]

If EYJ starts over Maybin tomorrow I'm going to be pissed.

[Hawk]

Kevin McAlpin
@KevinMcAlpin
Freeman on clubhouse mood after Kimbrel trade: "I think everything is ok. We haven't had one little mumble. We're excited, ready to go"

[Dalyn]

Kevin McAlpin
@KevinMcAlpin
Freeman on clubhouse mood after Kimbrel trade: "I think everything is ok. We haven't had one little mumble. We're excited, ready to go"

Won't be long before VB turns this into a post about Kimbrel being a cancer in the clubhouse.

[Garmel]

I'm at least encouraged that he's platooning Gomes and CJ... That's progress

Except Alvarez is one of the few RHs that CJ destroys(7-15 w/homer). *sigh* Fredi being Fredi.

[parkvadawg]

At first I was going to blast Fredi for hitting CB 5th, then I remembered our position players.

[Dalyn]

At first I was going to blast Fredi for hitting CB 5th, then I remembered our position players.

"Position."

[jpx7]

The Braves' Facebook post with the lineup reads:

"‪#‎BravesAreBack‬ today, and we've got a clubhouse full of guys ready to give their all for Braves Country!"

Ah, the perpetual Opening Day fallback slogan of the re-building team. "The 2015 Atlanta Braves: They're Gonna Try!"

The tryingest bunch of sons of bitches in baseball, no doubt.

[Dalyn]

At first I was going to blast Fredi for hitting CB 5th, then I remembered our position players.


"Position."

"Players."

[Braves1976]

If EYJ starts over Maybin tomorrow I'm going to be pissed.

I agree because if Maybin isn't given a shot here and just plays back-up CF. Then we basically sent something like 26-27 million to S.D. in the Kimbrel-Upton trade between him and already DFA'd Quentin (we owe Quentin 8 million + 3 million buyout barring a surprise trade). Further, hopefully Maybin is given a shot and does well because he's very good defender in CF. Maybin hit over .300 in ST (not that ST stats mean much if anything) so it's not like he's coming off a bad ST.

That said, I'd start Maybin in CF most games and play EY Jr. in LF mostly.

[gilesfan]

I'm going to be patient with Fredi but he always baffles me with lineups. Simmons 8? KJ and Callaspo ahead of him? Very odd.

KJ and Callaspo are likely better hitters than Simmons so it's not crazy at all. What's baffling is Markakis 3rd (assuming Fredi always bats best hitter 3rd) and Bethancourt 5th. FIFTH!

[UNCBlue012]

I know we have a platoon here, but apparently Chipper thinks both Markakis and CJoh could be the next to go; so that bars the question, is CJ being shopped hard?

[gilesfan]

IM not sure anyone is knocking down the door to pay Markakis.

[gilesfan]

Atlanta Braves 2015. We are full of piss and vinegar!

[Braves1976]

I know we have a platoon here, but apparently Chipper thinks both Markakis and CJoh could be the next to go; so that bars the question, is CJ being shopped hard?

I don't see Markakis being traded anytime soon, but obviously they'd love to move CJ and we all know they've tried hard to do so already.

[Pugfan]

KJ and Callaspo are likely better hitters than Simmons so it's not crazy at all. What's baffling is Markakis 3rd (assuming Fredi always bats best hitter 3rd) and Bethancourt 5th. FIFTH!

I'm having a hard time putting a lineup together in MLB the show so I feel Fredi's pain, lol. For the record I have a very hard time scoring runs in the game with this lineup. Can't figure out why?

[Braves1976]

Hawk:

It is official, Maybin will not be starting for us:

@mlbbowman · 8m 8 minutes ago
Fredi says Maybin will see some time vs. left-handed starters and be used as a late-inning def. replacement, which would shift EY to left

[Tapate50]

I know we have a platoon here, but apparently Chipper thinks both Markakis and CJoh could be the next to go; so that bars the question, is CJ being shopped hard?

I think CJ is being shopped for concession stand supplies at this point.

[jpx7]

It is official, Maybin will not be starting for us:

@mlbbowman · 8m 8 minutes ago
Fredi says Maybin will see some time vs. left-handed starters and be used as a late-inning def. replacement, which would shift EY to left

https://31.media.tumblr.com/453cd8ccb71af5e1374f24dfdf9aa9b8/tumblr_mlykjcZolN1s209omo1_400.gif

[gilesfan]

Hawk:

It is official, Maybin will not be starting for us:

@mlbbowman · 8m 8 minutes ago
Fredi says Maybin will see some time vs. left-handed starters and be used as a late-inning def. replacement, which would shift EY to left

Da Fuq?

[UNCBlue012]

I'm having a hard time putting a lineup together in MLB the show so I feel Fredi's pain, lol. For the record I have a very hard time scoring runs in the game with this lineup. Can't figure out why?

I used the Braves in the show this year and scored one run in 10 innings...

I used the Mariners (my AL team...ish, I have family ties) and scored 8.

Welp.

[jpx7]

Da Fuq?

He's just undeniably a ****ing idiot.*

EYJr goes 5-5 today now.

[Braves1976]

Except Alvarez is one of the few RHs that CJ destroys(7-15 w/homer). *sigh* Fredi being Fredi.

Fredi has to sit him vs the righties he hits to save him for the righties he cannot hit. That way we can keep him here. :)

[gilesfan]

He's just undeniably a ****ing idiot.*

EYJr goes 5-5 today now.

Probably.

There are decisions from any manager that I can strongly disagree with but understand the reasoning. Sometimes managers fall in love with some vets, etc.

But I don't see any reason to start Eric Young Jr.

[sturg33]

Hawk:

It is official, Maybin will not be starting for us:

@mlbbowman · 8m 8 minutes ago
Fredi says Maybin will see some time vs. left-handed starters and be used as a late-inning def. replacement, which would shift EY to left

Mind blowingly stupid...

[Braves1976]

Fredi has to sit him vs the righties he hits to save him for the righties he cannot hit. That way we can keep him here. :)

Ha, I was joking but Fredi confirms it showing again how stupid he can be:

@DOBrienAJC · 2m 2 minutes ago
#Braves Fredi said CJohnson would play next 2 days vs. RH, that he just wanted to get Callaspo start (despite CJ's 7-for-15, HR vs. Alvarez)

[Dalyn]

I used the Braves in the show this year and scored one run in 10 innings...

I used the Mariners (my AL team...ish, I have family ties) and scored 8.

Welp.

We'll probably end up with terrible pitching and great offense.

[Dalyn]

Ha, I was joking but Fredi confirms it showing again how stupid he can be:

@DOBrienAJC · 2m 2 minutes ago
#Braves Fredi said CJohnson would play next 2 days vs. RH, that he just wanted to get Callaspo start (despite CJ's 7-for-15, HR vs. Alvarez)

I'm not sure there is a dumber manager in baseball. Definitely not one with over 1k games.

[ChapelHillMatt]

I'm more upset Simmons is batting 8th. That's setting him up to fail, he's one of the hitters we really need to develop. Don't put him down there, that's where Callaspo should be.

[sturg33]

I'm not sure there is a dumber manager in baseball. Definitely not one with over 1k games.

I'm quite sure.

There isn't

[Dalyn]

I'm quite sure.

There isn't

Wren wanted to fire him, so the Braves think he's worth keeping.

[Braves1976]

I'm more upset Simmons is batting 8th. That's setting him up to fail, he's one of the hitters we really need to develop. Don't put him down there, that's where Callaspo should be.

I am not happy about that either, I thought after his great ST he'd at least hit 7th. Oh well.

[jpx7]

Wren wanted to fire him, so the Braves think he's worth keeping.

http://31.media.tumblr.com/3fab515f6e6cf5580327c7f1e938dfea/tumblr_napr30H7Dv1qzxgw0o1_500.gif

[gilesfan]

I'm more upset Simmons is batting 8th. That's setting him up to fail, he's one of the hitters we really need to develop. Don't put him down there, that's where Callaspo should be.

Simmons just isn't a good hitter. Pencil him 7th and let him play defense.

[Hawk]

Hawk:

It is official, Maybin will not be starting for us:

@mlbbowman · 8m 8 minutes ago
Fredi says Maybin will see some time vs. left-handed starters and be used as a late-inning def. replacement, which would shift EY to left

Maybin is indisputably the superior talent. He could actually be extremely productive for the Braves at a reasonable cost given the opportunity. Eric Young is a nice little bench piece, but he's not starting material -- especially not in CF.

Maybe the Braves believe this type of role will motivate Maybin. He came into San Diego camp and proclaimed himself the most athletic outfielder on the team (legitimately believing that he had a chance to beat out somebody [Kemp/Myers/JUpton] for a starting role), and backed it up with a pretty solid showing ... seems like a pretty driven guy from what little I've read in the past 24 hours.

Some of the nags relate to his drug related suspensions (adderall?) and perceived laziness.

[bravesnumberone]

It's not too late to scrap Fredi.

[thethe]

Simmons just isn't a good hitter. Pencil him 7th and let him play defense.

Doesn't matter if he isn't a good hitter. He is one of the core players. Best to get him as many AB's as possible. Especially over guys that won't be here in a year from now. Just stupid.

[bravesnumberone]

Maybin is indisputably the superior talent. He could actually be extremely productive for the Braves at a reasonable cost given the opportunity. Eric Young is a nice little bench piece, but he's not starting material -- especially not in CF.

Maybe the Braves believe this type of role will motivate Maybin. He came into San Diego camp and proclaimed himself the most athletic outfielder on the team (legitimately believing that he had a chance to beat out somebody [Kemp/Myers/JUpton] for a starting role), and backed it up with a pretty solid showing ... seems like a pretty driven guy from what little I've read in the past 24 hours.

Some of the nags relate to his drug related suspensions (adderall?) and perceived laziness.

I have reason to believe Bill Shanks wonders if he even loves baseball.

[MadduxFanII]

We really are benching Maybin for Eric Young, Jr. Jesus Christ, this is incredible. It's like the organization (or just Fredi) made a conscious decision to wipe out 1600 career Major League plate appearances because Young had a nice spring.

This isn't something a bad organization does- it's something a parody of a bad organization does.

[bravesnumberone]

We really are benching Maybin for Eric Young, Jr. Jesus Christ, this is incredible. It's like the organization (or just Fredi) made a conscious decision to wipe out 1600 career Major League plate appearances because Young had a nice spring.

This isn't something a bad organization does- it's something a parody of a bad organization does.

I thought we were trying to be as bad as possible. The dumbest move here is the best hitter by a mile not getting a guaranteed plate appearance in the first inning.

[Braves1976]

It's like the organization (or just Fredi) made a conscious decision to wipe out 1600 career Major League plate appearances because Young had a nice spring.

This isn't something a bad organization does- it's something a parody of a bad organization does.

Yep.

[Dalyn]

Kimbrel equaled Grilli's career saves total in just 2013.

[Braves1976]

I thought we were trying to be as bad as possible. The dumbest move here is the best hitter by a mile not getting a guaranteed plate appearance in the first inning.

Fredi could make all the right moves and this team would be plenty bad. Probably not Philly bad either way, but still protected draft pick bad.

I cannot get over how bad our bullpen is now after being such a strength. Thankfully we shouldn't have too many leads for it the blow.

[MadduxFanII]

And it's not as though Maybin is a superstar or anything, but:

1. He's younger than Young,
2. He's a legit center fielder, and Young is not,
3. He has more talent than Young
4. He's making real money, and Young is not.
5. He's almost certainly better than Young.

There's a chance, however small, that Maybin can be a contributor in 2017 when we open the park. There's no chance whatsoever that Young will be on that team.

[MadduxFanII]

1. He's younger than Young,


Though I suppose I can see how this might confuse Fredi.

[Hawk]

So Maybin is going to be my soapbox bitch from now until he receives legitimate playing time.

[Braves1976]

And it's not as though Maybin is a superstar or anything, but:

1. He's younger than Young,
2. He's a legit center fielder, and Young is not,
3. He has more talent than Young
4. He's making real money, and Young is not.
5. He's almost certainly better than Young.

There's a chance, however small, that Maybin can be a contributor in 2017 when we open the park. There's no chance whatsoever that Young will be on that team.

Exactly. Maybin has speed to steal bases too. He's also a very good centerfielder, not just average but very good. Defense matters more up the middle (SS & CF especially).

[Dalyn]

So Maybin is going to be my soapbox bitch from now until he receives legitimate playing time.

Gosselin is still the CF backup.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Always an appropriate day to play this:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=04KQydlJ-qc

[Braves1976]

So Maybin is going to be my soapbox bitch from now until he receives legitimate playing time.

I am expecting Fredi to sit him till he's cold as ice, then start him and he'll do nothing because he's cold as ice. He did that with Schafer and other back-ups in the past.

[Dalyn]

I am expecting Fredi to sit him till he's cold as ice, then start him and he'll do nothing because he's cold as ice. He did that with Schafer and other back-ups in the past.

In fairness, Schafer didn't get much hotter than ice cold.

[Dalyn]

Always an appropriate day to play this:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=04KQydlJ-qc

Listened and just let YouTube keep it going to the next song. Thanks for making my day a little better. :tchop:

[Braves1976]

In fairness, Schafer didn't get much hotter than ice cold.

He did once he left here and got regular AB's with the Twins. I say that to be fair because you know I was with you on Schafer, I still am in fact. But it wasn't just Schafer I had in mind, I just brought him up because he was our back-up CFer last year (same role Maybin has now).

[Dalyn]

He did once he left here and got regular AB's with the Twins. I say that to be fair because you know I was with you on Schafer, I still am in fact.

Just until the scouting report arrived.

[thethe]

Already 5 pages into the opening day gamethread before the first is thrown? Safe to say ChopCountry is ready to go!

Braves need to step it up to match our intensity.

[Dalyn]

Batting 5th!

http://www.twainquotes.com/baseballcatcher.gif

[Dalyn]

Already 5 pages into the opening day gamethread before the first is thrown? Safe to say ChopCountry is ready to go!

Braves need to step it up to match our intensity.

You know how excited a baby gets when trying to talk but not quite there yet? Yeah. That's how we're going to play baseball this year.

[cajunrevenge]

My Body Is ready. I don't care how bad we look on paper I choose to believe until proven in actual games.

[The Chosen One]

Paul Byrd: "It feels great to finally have a prototypical leadoff hitter. I don't care what his numbers are it's gonna be fun to see him get on base and cause havoc."

[Dalyn]

My Body Is ready. I don't care how bad we look on paper I choose to believe until proven in actual games.

I'm excited. It's like that "I deserve this" feeling that comes each time your dad beats you up.

[MadduxFanII]

Paul Byrd: "It feels great to finally have a prototypical leadoff hitter. I don't care what his numbers are it's gonna be fun to see him get on base and cause havoc."

Go tear another ligament, Paul.

[Dalyn]

Paul Byrd: "It feels great to finally have a prototypical leadoff hitter. I don't care what his numbers are it's gonna be fun to see him get on base and cause havoc."

Byrd is just kissing ass cause he knows he's an injury or two away from making the bullpen.

[thewupk]

Paul Byrd: "It feels great to finally have a prototypical leadoff hitter. I don't care what his numbers are it's gonna be fun to see him get on base and cause havoc."

:eusa_dance:

[thethe]

Byrd is just kissing ass cause he knows he's an injury or two away from making the bullpen.

Too funny....

[Hawk]

One thing about Paul Byrd is for sure, he needs to lose those glasses.

[Dalyn]

"One thing about Paul Byrd is for sure, he needs to lose those glasses." - Melvin & Dan Show

:Bunchie1:

[Hawk]

Damn, this montage is making me emotional.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Nice open there by SportsSouth.

[Dalyn]

Damn, this montage is making me emotional.

I know. :Sad: And I hear it was five minutes longer Sunday.

[sturg33]

Here's hoping for a good season. I am not rooting for us to lose. But I think it is inevitable.

And Joe Simpson is "excited about it"

[Hawk]

Here's hoping for a good season. I am not rooting for us to lose. But I think it is inevitable.

And Joe Simpson is "excited about it"

The clubhouse was also "FIRED UP" today, per Simpson. With emphasis.

And I want Chip Caray's hair and handkerchief.

[Tapate50]

Damn, this montage is making me emotional.

That time of the month?

[jpx7]

I think I'll try to watch this, since it might be the only chance I have to see the Braves play this season without a losing record.

[TDlxANDER]

It may not get much better than this....but I'm excited.

[CrimsonCowboy]

OK, that's the only time I ever need to hear Jon Secada sing the national anthem. Yeesh

[TDlxANDER]

Anyone trying the free MLB.tv premium preview today? I'm having issues getting it to work.

[thethe]

EY is going to hit a 2 run homer to start the game off.

[jpx7]

Damn, Chip: I thought the lines of white go up your nose, not in your hair.

At least his resting sweat-bead game is already on midseason point.

[jpx7]

Likewise, with a mic in his face, Fredi's opening-day dump game is almost on Hart's level.

[sturg33]

So when does the game start? Why put 4:10 if it is going to be 4:25? I ended a work call early for this

[The Chosen One]

The booth and studio guys all around can't bring themselves to admit we're pretty much in for a LONG season this year.

Then again, I'm expecting this to be one of the greatest managerial seasons we'll see for the ages when Fredi guides us to a wild card berth.

[The Chosen One]

Chip's ready for the starting lines... errr lineups.

[sturg33]

Good thing we have a bunch of guys that "know how to play" according to Joe Simpson... Will be exciting!

By the way, contrary to popular belief... we did not get younger. We replace young talented guys with old untalented ones

[The Chosen One]

I sure hope Chip Caray decides to never google his name + cocaine in the same line of the search bar. Don't think this website can afford to fight a lawsuit.

[Dalyn]

Damn, Chip: I thought the lines of white go up your nose, not in your hair.

At least his resting sweat-bead game is already on midseason point.

Makes it easier to hide his stash.

[Dalyn]

I sure hope Chip Caray decides to never google his name + cocaine in the same line of the search bar. Don't think this website can afford to fight a lawsuit.

:happy0157:

[jpx7]

"I don't, I don't really think about it as small-ball, I think it as a bunch of guys who know how to play."

Screw you, Joe.

[Julio3000]

The clubhouse was also "FIRED UP" today, per Simpson. With emphasis.

And I want Chip Caray's hair and handkerchief.

Me, too. In a jar.

[Dalyn]

The booth and studio guys all around can't bring themselves to admit we're pretty much in for a LONG season this year.

Then again, I'm expecting this to be one of the greatest managerial seasons we'll see for the ages when Fredi guides us to a wild card berth.

You spelled abortion wrong.

[emk418]

I still think this team will be more fun to watch then last year.

[gilesfan]

"I don't, I don't really think about it as small-ball, I think it as a bunch of guys who know how to play."

Screw you, Joe.


Can't help it; Joe loves opposite field singles.

[jpx7]

:fredi:

"... the most flexible batting-nine he's had since he's managed the Braves."

Oh, lord.

[Julio3000]

"I don't, I don't really think about it as small-ball, I think it as a bunch of guys who know how to play."

Screw you, Joe.

This year is gonna be Joe Simpson hell.

[Dalyn]

"I don't, I don't really think about it as small-ball, I think it as a bunch of guys who know how to play."

Screw you, Joe.

These new guys are just really wh...wh...wily!

[gilesfan]

I still think this team will be more fun to watch then last year.

Do you enjoy bum fights as well?

[Julio3000]

Chip's ready for the starting lines... errr lineups.

I've missed this. I really have.

[The Chosen One]

Paul Byrd nearly fell out of his seat from the excitement of that groundball produced.

[Braves1976]

"I don't, I don't really think about it as small-ball, I think it as a bunch of guys who know how to play."

Screw you, Joe.

Nothing new, remember when we got CJ and the whole first month Joe and Chip went out of their way to praise his defense at third? In other words, they're just spinning things as usual, but this year the spin will need to be as crazy as we seen in a long time.

[gilesfan]

I don't care guys. EY Jr. went balls to the wall on that groundout. Gave me a chubby.

[buck75]

The EYJ era begins! (Not so well.)

[Hawk]

Jacccceeee

[Julio3000]

Damn, Chip: I thought the lines of white go up your nose, not in your hair.

At least his resting sweat-bead game is already on midseason point.

Miami is his jammy.

[CrimsonCowboy]

First hit to Jace Peterson

[thethe]

PETERSON!

[Braves1976]

Good start for Peterson, first hit his first real AB as a Brave. Hopefully he can steal second here.

[gilesfan]

Good start for Peterson, first hit his first real AB as a Brave. Hopefully he can steal second here.

Then third and home.

[jpx7]

I anticipate many games beginning thus, so long as Fredi insists on leading-off EYJr.

But maybe Tim Hudson can break Eric Young's ankle this year?

[Dalyn]

Paul Byrd nearly fell out of his seat from the excitement of that groundball produced.

Damn. Premium MLB.tv is really behind. I just saw the first pitch.

[The Chosen One]

Markakis showing the leadership it takes to take pitches.

[gilesfan]

Damn. Premium MLB.tv is really behind. I just saw the first pitch.

Mine is way behind. I just say Byrd's last pitch.

[The Chosen One]

162-0 HERE WE COME.

MUKAKI REBUILD BEGINS.

[gilesfan]

Markakis showing the leadership it takes to take pitches.

He enticed the balk.

[CrimsonCowboy]

NICK MARKAKIS FOR DAD GUM MVP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[buck75]

A run!!!

[Hawk]

+1 for small ball.

[UNCBlue012]

Yay!

[Braves1976]

Peterson says I don't need no stinkin' balk, I could've stole that base. Braves score first as Nick Markakis with a RBI base hit. Good start for him too.

[gilesfan]

Rounding into form, boys......rounding into form.

[Julio3000]

Yeah, Mukaki rebuild win.

[thethe]

MUKAKAKI!

[emk418]

Markakis sucks

[Julio3000]

+1 for small ball.

We just say baseball.

[The Chosen One]

We finally have a real leadoff, #2, #3, and #4 hitter.

[thethe]

Then third and home.

Stop being a negative B on opening day.

[cajunrevenge]

Rofl, we score in the first inning. This must be the anti - braves teams.

[gilesfan]

way to move him over for Bethancourt, FREDDI!

[ChapelHillMatt]

Good start.

Might be the only time we have a lead all year.

Enjoy it boys!

[sturg33]

thethe should apply to be a Braves broadcaster

[The Chosen One]

If we can produce 1 run per inning at this rate... we'll be on point.

[Julio3000]

Bethancourt hit that ball pretty well, for those of you not watching.

[Dalyn]

Just saw the Markakis hit and RBI, and I want to post something excited, but it sucks that I am so far behind. Afraid to read posts because of spoilers. Sucks. Hope it catches up.

[The Chosen One]

way to move him over for Bethancourt, FREDDI!

You can really see the fight in the team this year already. Doing the little things like moving the runners over.

[Julio3000]

thethe should apply to be a Braves broadcaster

The last 30 minutes has been like living in his brain.

[gilesfan]

The last 30 minutes has been like living in his brain.

I lol'd out loud.

[The Chosen One]

The Sportsouth teasers for tomorrow's game at 6:30, really trying to get the ratings up as high as they can before it gets bad. Not even through the first inning yet and they're teasing tomorrow's game.

[Dalyn]

Terrible at-bat from Freeman with Bethancourt behind him.

[jpx7]

Joe: "... but the three guys ahead of Freddie, all high on-base percentage guys [pause for punctuation; then whisper as afterthought] they're hoping."

[nsacpi]

Offense looks very potent so far.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Mark Bowman @mlbbowman · 2h 2 hours ago
Nick Markakis was the veteran who took charge in today's pregame meeting and stressed the need to look beyond last night's trade.

[The Chosen One]

This thread has been on point so far. I hope the tone can stay like this all year to help us get through November.

[The Chosen One]

Mark Bowman @mlbbowman · 2h 2 hours ago
Nick Markakis was the veteran who took charge in today's pregame meeting and stressed the need to look beyond last night's trade.

Why didn't Freddie do this? Or Heyward? No leadership.

[gilesfan]

This thread has been on point so far. I hope the tone can stay like this all year to help us get through November.

Yeah, even asking a guy to steal third and home is considered being negative.

[Braves78]

I admittedly don't pay much attention to prospects too much and rely on this board for most of my info. I am curious though what has CB ever done to male anyone think he will even be an average MLB catcher. With that being said with how productive AJ was this spring why isn't he our starting catcher. Not trying to be negative on opening day I'm honestly curious.

[Garmel]

This year is gonna be Joe Simpson hell.

Every year is Joe Simpson hell.

[jpx7]

Just saw the Markakis hit and RBI, and I want to post something excited, but it sucks that I am so far behind. Afraid to read posts because of spoilers. Sucks. Hope it catches up.

http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Guardian/Pix/pictures/2014/7/10/1404990099422/George-RR-Martin-012.jpg

[Dalyn]

Just saw the Simmons play. How far behind am I?

[Braves1976]

If Teheran can keep the ball on the ground we do have our best infield defense playing. Strong up the middle and third is good too as Callaspo is much better than CJ defensively (Callaspo is bad at second and good at third).

[The Chosen One]

I never had a problem with Joe, until he started getting partnered with Chip on the move to Sportssouth/Fox.

I actually liked Joe-Boog.

I think Chip brings out the worst in guys.

[Dalyn]

I admittedly don't pay much attention to prospects too much and rely on this board for most of my info. I am curious though what has CB ever done to male anyone think he will even be an average MLB catcher. With that being said with how productive AJ was this spring why isn't he our starting catcher. Not trying to be negative on opening day I'm honestly curious.

He showed some really good defense in the minors.

[gilesfan]

I admittedly don't pay much attention to prospects too much and rely on this board for most of my info. I am curious though what has CB ever done to male anyone think he will even be an average MLB catcher. With that being said with how productive AJ was this spring why isn't he our starting catcher. Not trying to be negative on opening day I'm honestly curious.

AJ is certainly a better hitter, but CB is playing for the future. He projects as a good catch and throw guy but his bat is a huge red flag.

[ChapelHillMatt]

Julio is going to be fun to watch.

[thethe]

One full inning of being ahead. This is great!

[The Chosen One]

Just saw the Simmons play. How far behind am I?

Teheran just K'd Cricket mask. Commercial now.

[jpx7]

Why didn't Freddie do this? Or Heyward? No leadership.

Easy answer: One's a huggy-bear jokester, and one's bl... doesn't love baseball.

[nsacpi]

Huge inning from Teheran. Harang-like.

[buck75]

Start the playoffs now! Braves lead 1-0 after one inning.

[The Chosen One]

Fredi already silencing the critics after inning #1.

[gilesfan]

After today, there is no way the Phils are going to catch us.

[Braves1976]

BTW, I am not sure our offense will be our biggest weakness. I think our bullpen could be just as bad. It sure looks quite bad on paper IMO.

[The Chosen One]

Poor Kelly. If this were 2007 that would've been over the CF's head for a double.

[jpx7]

I think Chip brings out the worst in guys.

But the best in us—and out of his stash.

[cajunrevenge]

We got a lead! RELEASE THE KIMBREL :Sad:

[The Chosen One]

So far this inning, 4 pitches 2 outs. I guess they're trying to honor 2014's team now.

[Julio3000]

Easy answer: One's a huggy-bear jokester, and one's bl... doesn't love baseball.

Midseason form, there.

[gilesfan]

We got a lead! RELEASE THE KIMBREL :Sad:

I like to call our new bullpen the Jilli

[Dalyn]

Don't look now, but the Braves are on pace for about 1377 runs.

[ChapelHillMatt]

Are we opposed to taking pitches????

[The Chosen One]

5 pitches, 3 outs.

BACK TO THE BRAVES WAY.

[Braves1976]

Are we opposed to taking pitches????

It's better to swing early and put the ball in play than get behind and strikeout. :)

[gilesfan]

5 pitches, 3 outs.

BACK TO THE BRAVES WAY.

The quicker you get through the lineup, the faster you get the game over with.

[sturg33]

Was that a 4 pitch inning?

[Dalyn]

Fredi already silencing the critics after inning #1.

He still has inning 7-9 to work his particular brand of magic poo.

[thethe]

Offense is going to be fun this year.

[MadduxFanII]

Our pitchers are bizarrely good against Stanton.

[Julio3000]

5 pitches, 3 outs.

BACK TO THE BRAVES WAY.

Per Joe Simpson, having guys signed to minor league contracts on the roster is supposed to keep **** like that from happening.

[Dalyn]

Are we opposed to taking pitches????

Get used to it. #1 goal is to put it in play. #2 is not to get two strikes against you.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Two innings, no strikeouts. That's already better than 2014.

[jpx7]

Midseason form, there.

Started camp shaky, but concluded the month legit BSOML.

[MadduxFanII]

Get used to it. #1 goal is to put it in play. #2 is not to get two strikes against you.

Goal #3 is the comfortable chair.

[nsacpi]

This team just simply does not strike out. Impressionante!

[Dalyn]

Offense is going to be fun this year.

Now even you are picking on the team! :happy0157:

[gilesfan]

Two innings, no strikeouts. That's already better than 2014.

If the opposing pitcher only throws 5 pitches, he cant strike out the side.

[sturg33]

I still don't understand all the people who said Callaspo is fat... Doesn't look that bad to me

[CrimsonCowboy]

Have the folks at Marlins Park forgotten they have a retractable roof?

[gilesfan]

I still don't understand all the people who said Callaspo is fat... Doesn't look that bad to me

We can't all date supermodels, you know.

[jpx7]

Per Joe Simpson, having guys signed to minor league contracts on the roster is supposed to keep **** like that from happening.

And it's "what's cool" about Opening Day, too!

[Julio3000]

I never had a problem with Joe, until he started getting partnered with Chip on the move to Sportssouth/Fox.

I actually liked Joe-Boog.

I think Chip brings out the worst in guys.

In coca veritas.

[ChapelHillMatt]

lol they don't have a tarp

[gilesfan]

Have the folks at Marlins Park forgotten they have a retractable roof?

This is a brilliant way to slow down the speed we have on offense.

[Dalyn]

Marlins suck.

[MadduxFanII]

Oh God, are we really in a rain delay? That's just hilarious.

[Dalyn]

Fifteen minutes? That's ridiculous.

[Julio3000]

They can use Harang's old warmups to cover the pitcher's mound.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Pretty obvious the people in charge at Marlins Park are not very bright

[drewdat]

Teheran seemed to be in a groove. Hopefully they can get this one in.

[Braves1976]

Teheran was on his game too, now this could mess that up. Figures.

[Garmel]

Time to fire the ground crew.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Mark Bowman ‏@mlbbowman 2m2 minutes ago
The roof is closing at Estrada-like speed

[gilesfan]

Time to fire the ground crew.

Or give them a raise....depends on how you look at it.

[MadduxFanII]

Time to fire the ground crew.

In fairness, it's hard to ever plan for the possibility of rain in south Florida.

In serious fairness, there's a non-zero chance Loria had them sell the tarp to a local middle school so he could clear a cool $57.

[ChapelHillMatt]

Someone should be fired

[jpx7]

Pretty obvious the people in charge at Marlins Park are not very bright

Now we know where Fredi moonlights.

[bravesnumberone]

Time to fire the ground crew.

Jeffrey Loria traded away the main crew.

[gilesfan]

In fairness, it's hard to ever plan for the possibility of rain in south Florida.

In serious fairness, there's a non-zero chance Loria had them sell the tarp to a local middle school so he could clear a cool $57.

They used that $57 to buy some carp in the fish tank.

[drewdat]

I mean, they have a roof. But once the game starts, and you're being paid to be there... you kind of had one job?

[ChapelHillMatt]

If Julio has a bad game from this point forward can we protest?

[CrimsonCowboy]

The grounds crew standing around like "Uh, what do we do?"

[TDlxANDER]

No way you bring Julio back out here after the delay.....TO THE PEN!!!!!

[thethe]

Marlins are a joke.

[MadduxFanII]

No way you bring Julio back out here after the delay.....TO THE PEN!!!!!

Good idea. Turn the game over to the strength of the team.

[gilesfan]

Don't lie, watching these guys throw dirt on the field (making no difference) is more interesting than the game.

[ChapelHillMatt]

The grounds crew standing around like "Uh, what do we do?"

It's embarrassing....what do they get paid to do exactly?

[Dalyn]

Someone should be fired

I vote Fredi.

[Julio3000]

If Julio has a bad game from this point forward can we protest?

I'm two beers deep, but I'm fine.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Jeff Schultz ‏@JeffSchultzAJC 1m1 minute ago
Marlins don't have rain tarp because they didn't think they would need one with a roof, except that roof has to be closed for that to matter

[Julio3000]

They used that $57 to buy some carp in the fish tank.

Mike Carp was available, but too expensive.

[gilesfan]

I picture Loria telling the crew it costs too much money to close the roof.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Home plate ump Jeff Nelson looked ticked off when he called for the delay.

[ChapelHillMatt]

I vote Fredi.

Surprisingly this is not his fault