GDT 4/24 Atlanta (8-7) @ Philadelphia (5-11) 7:05 pm (ET)

[Dalyn]

https://s1.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/XCfNqUfeeMPfU.IBoleGZw--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7Zmk9ZmlsbDtoPTIxNTtxPTc1O3c9MTY1/https://sp.yimg.com/j/assets/i/us/sp/v/mlb_cutout/players_l/20150406/9415.png

VS

https://s1.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/7xRlt_PqIIPhD6xql4hpKg--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7Zmk9ZmlsbDtoPTIxNTtxPTc1O3c9MTY1/https://sp.yimg.com/j/assets/i/us/sp/v/mlb_cutout/players_l/20150406/6936.png



https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xat1/v/t1.0-9/p720x720/1907644_10152885322462831_1240728637261870363_n.pn g?oh=8d82a5af75b254989fd701174b540a0a&oe=55D18F53&__gda__=1441115384_a8278ecd564415a85c98a7773113a4c d

VS

http://s24.postimg.org/i40qpvwo5/Phillies.jpg

http://www1.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Fredi+Gonzalez+Atlanta+Braves+Photo+Day+ZazwBxekio cl.jpg

VS

http://media.philly.com/images/092213-ryne-sandberg-600.jpg

[emk418]

I just don't understand how Fredi has given up on Jace. He should be run out there most nights for the next few weeks to see what we have. In what world should you give up on a young talented rookie after struggling for the first week.

[Garmel]

I hope Harang doesn't come up huge against us tonight.

[Dalyn]

I just don't understand how Fredi has given up on Jace. He should be run out there most nights for the next few weeks to see what we have. In what world should you give up on a young talented rookie after struggling for the first week.

http://i.usatoday.net/sports/_photos/2011/03/24/fredix-large.jpg

[Dalyn]

https://scontent-iad.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/994184_10152885692647831_4061010485027225673_n.jpg ?oh=3ad2130597290cb57fdb3274ca42a2bf&oe=55DBCCAF

[Dalyn]

https://scontent-iad.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xap1/v/t1.0-9/1506437_10152884748257831_6374038387534886153_n.jp g?oh=f7308131bf193ac7c2b074501c8acdf1&oe=55E518BF

[Chipper Jones]

Lets do this, boys.

[Dalyn]

Wood all over the place early. Needs to focus and hit the right spot.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Wood all over the place early. Needs to focus and hit the right spot.

And that's just on his pickoff throws

[Garmel]

Wood can't throw to a base.

[Braves1976]

Nice hustle by Maybin there and nice deke by Simmons.

[Dalyn]

Maybin and Simmons handled the errant Wood nicely.

[Garmel]

The pitch count is already getting high.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Jeff Francoeur hitting in front of Ryan Howard?
http://skitguys.com/images/products/believe-it-or-not.jpg

[Dalyn]

http://s17.postimg.org/jhgxxzdfj/alex_wood.jpg

[Braves1976]

BTW, dumb move by Rangers not protecting Herrera IMO. Phillies smart to take him. But they also took Ender Inciarte from D'Backs a few years back but messed up giving him back. I hate it they got another shot at a similar talent.

[AerchAngel]

Did FF turn into Melvin Jr, missing 88 mph straight fastballs in your wheel house?

[bravesnumberone]

Harang is being huge.

[rico43]

Explain to me again why Harang wasn't worth re-signing?

[thethe]

What a joke of a manager we have.

[thethe]

Explain to me again why Harang wasn't worth re-signing?

Hard to expect a repeat of last year.

[bravesnumberone]

Explain to me again why Harang wasn't worth re-signing?

I have nothing for you. There was zero harm in going that route.

[bravesnumberone]

KENT HRBEK

[Braves1976]

Explain to me again why Harang wasn't worth re-signing?

If I'd known they'd take on 5.5 million in a trade for Cahill I'd rather re-signed Harang too. But keep in mind he wanted a multi-year deal back when we were interested. Also, I wanted to keep Wandy and liked Hale and later Martin as righty options. We also didn't know about Minor's shoulder becoming a problem again back when we decided on Harang either.

That said, I still wouldn't bet on him repeating last year despite his good start. Nor would I have done a two year deal he wanted up until taking less with Philly.

[bravesnumberone]

What a joke of a manager we have.

He hasn't screwed up yet tonight.

[Dalyn]

KENT HRBEK

http://mediadownloads.mlb.com/mlbam/2013/11/04/images/mlbf_20188195_th_13.jpg

[Dalyn]

He hasn't screwed up yet tonight.

I guess you missed the lineup. That's what thethe is upset about.

[dak]

Andrelton's baseball instincts off the charts.

[Dalyn]

http://cdn-jpg.si.com/sites/default/files/styles/si_gallery_slide/public/si/multimedia/photo_gallery/1110/blown.calls.in.the.postseason/images/13-gant.jpg

[bravesnumberone]

I guess you missed the lineup. That's what thethe is upset about.

Gotta play those veterans. Simmons has been smoking the ball. Him being 7th is the worst part of the lineup construction tonight. And yeah, Jace should be playing.

[Braves1976]

Andrelton's baseball instincts off the charts.

Yep, Peterson is pretty smart around the bag too. I wonder if he learned some of that from Simmons though. I didn't watch him enough in his Padres days to say.

[dak]

If I'd known they'd take on 5.5 million in a trade for Cahill I'd rather re-signed Harang too. But keep in mind he wanted a multi-year deal back when we were interested. Also, I wanted to keep Wandy and liked Hale and later Martin as righty options. We also didn't know about Minor's shoulder becoming a problem again back when we decided on Harang either.

That said, I still wouldn't bet on him repeating last year despite his good start. Nor would I have done a two year deal he wanted up until taking less with Philly.

My recollection is that Harang can earn $8m-$9m w/ incentives. We also got the 75th pick in the Cahill deal. Based on what the Dodgers payed for Webb for the 74th pick, I'd guess the surplus value of the pick is around $2m on the market.

[Runnin]

Andrelton's baseball instincts off the charts.
Don't get too carried away. Anybody whose ever played wiffle ball has tried that.

[Braves1976]

http://mediadownloads.mlb.com/mlbam/2013/11/04/images/mlbf_20188195_th_13.jpg

Every time I see that I want to kill that man, Hrbek that is not my boy Ron Gant. I took that WS loss harder than any other, I still cannot help turning the channel when I see that damn "The Twins are gonna win the world series, the Twins have won it! It's a base hit..." highlight.

[Dalyn]

Gotta play those veterans. Simmons has been smoking the ball. Him being 7th is the worst part of the lineup construction tonight. And yeah, Jace should be playing.

It's the essence of the Mukaki Rebuild. By the end of the year, maybe we'll have a veteran or two to flip for a mid-level prospect, but we won't know what we've got with Jace, Bethancourt, Martin, Ban, Maybin, Wisler, Folty, etc.

[Braves1976]

Don't get too carried away. Anybody whose ever played wiffle ball has tried that.

He was not just talking about that play, Simmons makes heads up plays seemingly every chance he gets and is very creative in doing so more often than others.

[Dalyn]

Markakis always seems to have a good at-bat. Love that about him.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Dang. Bad luck

[Russ2dollas]

It's the essence of the Mukaki Rebuild. By the end of the year, maybe we'll have a veteran or two to flip for a mid-level prospect, but we won't know what we've got with Jace, Bethancourt, Martin, Ban, Maybin, Wisler, Folty, etc.

I think the plan is that at the deadline we're out of it. We flip the guys we can. And then you've got a lot of games for Peraza, Folty, CB, and Wisler to play.

Not sure if that will happen.......it probably won't.

[Russ2dollas]

if all it took was 5 million and some incentives then we should have resigned Harang....that's cheaper than Cahill....

Of course I'm starting to think that the Braves basically think they bought that draft pick and bonus pool money for 6.5 million and a prospect they didn't think much of....They seem very interested in having the biggest pool possible. Interested to see what they do in the draft

[Braves1976]

My recollection is that Harang can earn $8m-$9m w/ incentives. We also got the 75th pick in the Cahill deal. Based on what the Dodgers payed for Webb for the 74th pick, I'd guess the surplus value of the pick is around $2m on the market.

MLBTR reported it at 5 million but also added that he can make more with incentives but I hadn't heard it was that much more. If so Philly made a bigger offer than us despite a few reports to the contrary. Regarding the Cahill deal, I am glad we got something of value back because we did give up a couple prospects in the deal too.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Pierzynski with another hit

[Braves1976]

Markakis always seems to have a good at-bat. Love that about him.

He's had one of the highest contact % for years now, that is impressive. What I don't like about him is his declining power (likely due in part to injuries) and his defense in RF (DRS has him at -3 already for us in RF). Further, I could see him still being good for a few more years but I still expect him decline quite a bit by that 4th year. Also, I hope we move him to LF as early as next year as his defense should play better there IMO.

[Dalyn]

He's had one of the highest contact % for years now, that is impressive. What I don't like about him is his declining power (likely due in part to injuries) and his defense in RF. Further, I could see him still being good for a few more years but I still expect him decline quite a bit by that 4th year. Also, I hope we move him to LF as early as next year as his defense should play better there IMO.

Yeah. I expect him to be in LF by 2017 at the latest.

[bravesnumberone]

Huge

[Russ2dollas]

He's had one of the highest contact % for years now, that is impressive. What I don't like about him is his declining power (likely due in part to injuries) and his defense in RF. Further, I could see him still being good for a few more years but I still expect him decline quite a bit by that 4th year. Also, I hope we move him to LF as early as next year as his defense should play better there IMO.

I'm hoping that this off season we grab stud RF and move him to LF too....thinking maybe the Pirates would trade RF prospect for pitching.

[Garmel]

It seems the worst possible thing that can happen will happen. We're hitting the ball hard but the ball keeps finding gloves.

[Braves1976]

I'm hoping that this off season we grab stud RF and move him to LF too....thinking maybe the Pirates would trade RF prospect for pitching.

The Pirates do have some solid outfield options, I wouldn't mind doing that too depending on who and how much they'd ask.

[Dalyn]

I'm hoping that this off season we grab stud RF

http://krui.fm/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Jorge-Soler.jpg

[Russ2dollas]

http://krui.fm/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Jorge-Soler.jpg

too much personality for Hart. too much swing and miss too.

[Julio3000]

Put your hands together for the Braves' 2015 All-Star representative, C A.J. Pierzynski.

[nsacpi]

Harang has been enormous tonight.

[Braves1976]

Put your hands together for the Braves' 2015 All-Star representative, C A.J. Pierzynski.

Does that mean we'll trade him for a top 50 prospect? :)

[Russ2dollas]

Put your hands together for the Braves' 2015 All-Star representative, C A.J. Pierzynski.

Just driving that price up from top 50 prospect to top 25.......

Plus you know we're getting Markakis in the OPS all stars. Simmons defense run saved. Grillie......oldest pitcher who doesn't suck

[Russ2dollas]

this is EXACTLY the game most of us pictured the braves playing.......at least 80 of them

[nsacpi]

this is EXACTLY the game most of us pictured the braves playing.......at least 80 of them

We were informed that the objective was to be palatable.

[emk418]

http://krui.fm/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Jorge-Soler.jpg

He would be a dream and everything this team needs. But zero chance he'll ever be moved.

[Russ2dollas]

We were informed that the objective was to be palatable.

agree.....but this is what I thought would happen....and why I canceled my mlbtv

[nsacpi]

Who's going to keep it up longer? Wood or Harang? Both have been huge tonight.

[nsacpi]

agree.....but this is what I thought would happen....and why I canceled my mlbtv

It will be interesting to see what happens to attendance and 2016 payroll.

[Garmel]

To the bullpen early again.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Another night. Another game a starter can't go deep.

[Dalyn]

I'm thinking we're doing something different in the training department with pitchers. Stamina seems to be down across the board.

[Dalyn]

Come on, Cozy!

[Russ2dollas]

It will be interesting to see what happens to attendance and 2016 payroll.

It should go down IMO. Nobody worth spending money on next year except JUP and Heyward. Those two aren't coming back. Peraza takes over Callespo. Prob a couple of rookie pitchers. Maybe we extend Miller if he is good and that raises things.

But I'd think LOW payroll and LOW attendance as we bail on downtown.

[nsacpi]

Harangatang

[Braves1976]

Down on the farm for Gwinnett, Peraza having another good night with two more hits and another stolen base, he's hitting .290 now officially. My boy Hunter having a good night including two hits, one a homer, and two RBI's. Hunter is hitting .289 so far. Perez is 0-3 with an RBI but has stolen his league leading 10th base so far.

[dak]

Harang dropping those curves in a perfect spot. He's picked up right where he left off last year.

[bravesnumberone]

At least we have Cahill

[Dalyn]

Fredi loses confidence in a rookie almost before they even fail. It's ridiculous.

[atl717]

man this offense is so exciting!

[bravesnumberone]

My God. Calling up fresh arms does no good if you're going to keep going one pitcher per batter.

[Garmel]

Phillies are 0-100 with RISP tonight.

[Braves1976]

Phillies are 0-100 with RISP tonight.

Yea but Philly are tanking on purpose, how else do you explain Frenchy as their clean-up man? We're supposedly trying to win, lol.

[Runnin]

Braves outfielders have a very simple strategy. If at all possible, just throw it to Simmons.

[bravesnumberone]

Loads of fun to watch.

[dak]

I wonder if Johnson will pitch the 8th. Don't feel great about it, but not sure there's a better option.

[Dalyn]

I wonder if Johnson will pitch the 8th. Don't feel great about it, but not sure there's a better option.

Give one of the new guys a go.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Talking Chop ‏@TalkingChop 28s29 seconds ago
I hope you've done something more productive tonight than watching this game. Like knitting a cat sweater, or dusting the light fixtures.

[Braves1976]

Talking Chop ‏@TalkingChop 28s29 seconds ago
I hope you've done something more productive tonight than watching this game. Like knitting a cat sweater, or dusting the light fixtures.

I'm paying more attention to the minor league games via MILB.TV again tonight.

[atl717]

I love watching our guys put the bat on the ball. Doesn't matter how weak it is hit. It is the new thing in baseball.

[atl717]

Thanks Johnson. This one is over. We have like 3 likable players on this team.

[emk418]

This team is terrible

[Garmel]

Thank you very much.

[Braves1976]

Wow, what a dumb bunt play there by Philly. Now that's how to tank a game! :)

[CrimsonCowboy]

Wow. Thanks! What was that?

[Braves1976]

Wow. Thanks! What was that?

Philly is afraid we're their main competition for that number one draft pick so they're gifting us outs to be safe. :)

[CrimsonCowboy]

Mark Bowman ‏@mlbbowman 57s58 seconds ago
Asche is no EYJ when it comes to power bunts

[dak]

Johnson in to face Ruiz. I like it. Avilan real lucky to survive that.

[Garmel]

*sigh* Great. Jim Johnson is pitching.

[Braves1976]

YES!

Sorry I am watching Gwinnett, Hunter just doubled to make it second and third no outs for the G-Braves in a game they're losing 6-5. That's Hunter's second double and third hit tonight. :)

Ciriaco just tied it, 6-6 now in the 8th.

[Braves1976]

Nice job by Philly screwing up that run scoring chance. :)

[Garmel]

You know what the Phillies remind me of in this game? The Braves from last year. Baserunner after baserunner and can't score.

[Dalyn]

Great game by Harang. He really turned his career around. Good to see.

[Dalyn]

I hope this is 0-0 for 20+ innings.

[Dalyn]

Jim still in? Okay. I hope this is 2-2 for 20+ innings then.

[CyYoung31]

Something something, multiple innings...

[CyYoung31]

Beth would have thrown him out.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Good grief

[CyYoung31]

We might be the worst team in the division.

[Five]

Hot garbage. From top to bottom. This team blows.

[AerchAngel]

Well there is YNOT.

Nothing else to look forward to.

[emk418]

wow this team is terrible.

[NinersSBChamps]

Wish there was a YNOT question if the Braves would have more errors than hits in a game.

[atl717]

Its ok, our system is full of light hitting speedsters who will give our lineup a jolt. We will be the envy of baseball.

[nsacpi]

Phillies just showed us how important weak contact is.

[Dalyn]

I hope this is 0-0 for 20+ innings.


Jim still in? Okay. I hope this is 2-2 for 20+ innings then.

Knew that was coming. :Sad:

[CrimsonCowboy]

Four errors, including the one that loses the game.

[UNCBlue012]

Fire fredi. Idiot kept Johnson in too long and our defense decides it's not important to play.

The Phillies are so bad. So bad. This is literally embarrassing.

[NinersSBChamps]

Well there is YNOT.

Nothing else to look forward to.

That's true!

[AerchAngel]

We might be the worst team in the division.

Might?

Can't pitch, can't hit, can't field, can't manage and we have a bunch of AAA equivalent players on the team.

[Runnin]

Should be 5 errors.

[emk418]

Well let's keep running Jim Johnson out for important innings

[Five]

Fire fredi. Idiot kept Johnson in too long and our defense decides it's not important to play.

The Phillies are so bad. So bad. This is literally embarrassing.

Better duck.

You are right though.

[jsebe10]

Our 1B needs to go take a long look in the mirror and decide who the fck he wants to be for this Franchise, team, and its fanbase because clearly the pressure is too much.

[NinersSBChamps]

Should be 5 errors.

We get one each game just based off of who the manager is.

[emk418]

Our 1B needs to go take a long look in the mirror and decide who the fck he wants to be for this Franchise, team, and its fanbase because clearly the pressure is too much.

Freeman is driving me crazy. I can't stand his body language and watching him sulk on the field.

[UNCBlue012]

And I'm more mad because Freddie decides that this year isn't important. Dude has been garbage.

I love the guy, but he has to step it up.

[bravesnumberone]

I wouldn't be too upset with moving Freddie if he can't provide more than he's giving.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Those of you blaming Gonzalez are pointing your finger the wrong way. Johnson got the ground ball there, but the gold glove caliber first baseman misplayed it. His second error on the night.

[AerchAngel]

Our 1B needs to go take a long look in the mirror and decide who the fck he wants to be for this Franchise, team, and its fanbase because clearly the pressure is too much.

Shhhhhhh, you aren't allow to say anything about the k and error machine known as Freeman. If I am correct, he makes the most money on the team. It seems those who makes the most usually end up not living up to their contracts lately, starting with Derek bLowe and the trend continues.

[Braves1976]

This is much more fun than last year, no chance we tease with a 17-7 start now. And as they say, nobody likes a tease. :)

[The Chosen One]

We got eaten alive by Harang.

[bravesnumberone]

Glad we got rid of the real attitude problems on the team. What a joke

[Dalyn]

Freeman needs to be benched tomorrow, in my opinion. His attitude has been suspect most of the year, and his play on the field today was unacceptable.

[emk418]

and while we suck I'm glad Fredi will continue giving more playing time to Callaspo and EY instead of seeing if Jace and Maybin have a future here.

[bravesnumberone]

Freeman needs to be benched tomorrow, in my opinion. His attitude has been suspect most of the year, and his play on the field today was unacceptable.

If that's all he's got I don't want him on this team. I'm dead serious.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Tonight's game:
http://www.facepalm.su/wp-content/gallery/gif-facepalm-2/sivestr-stalone-facepalm.gif

[CyYoung31]

Freeman needs to be benched tomorrow, in my opinion. His attitude has been suspect most of the year, and his play on the field today was unacceptable.

Out of the question. Only cocky Dominicans are allowed to be benched for having a poor attitude.

[Dalyn]

I have to say, Freeman's attitude/play almost has him my least favorite player on the Braves.

[bravesnumberone]

He's always been a cockhead. Now it just can't be concealed. Dude needs to seriously grow the **** up, and the dickless manager needs to pull him aside and chew him like Harang would.

[Chipper Jones]

Happy freakin' birthday.

[MadduxFanII]

I missed most of the game (post-work nap), then "watched" on GameCast. Anyone want to fill me in on all of the griping about Freddie's attitude? I know he made the crucial error, but that wouldn't seem to cover it.

[Dalyn]

I missed most of the game (post-work nap), then "watched" on GameCast. Anyone want to fill me in on all of the griping about Freddie's attitude? I know he made the crucial error, but that wouldn't seem to cover it.

He has had these mopey at-bats ALL YEAR. I understand being pissed/upset about the rebuild, but keep it off the field.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Kevin McAlpin ‏@KevinMcAlpin 1m1 minute ago
After committing just 1 error over the seasons first 108 innings, the #Braves have now made 7 in the last 4 games.

[Dalyn]

Kevin McAlpin ‏@KevinMcAlpin 1m1 minute ago
After committing just 1 error over the seasons first 108 innings, the #Braves have now made 7 in the last 4 games.

I hope Asshole smashes a beer against the wall and pisses on Freeman.

[Julio3000]

I chose to go see my local low-A ballclub play tonight. They got 2-hit and lost, but at least they could catch the baseball. Sounds like I got the better end of the deal, sad as it seems.

[chop2chip]

Freeman needs to be benched tomorrow, in my opinion. His attitude has been suspect most of the year, and his play on the field today was unacceptable.

He's not as upbeat as he's been in the past, but he's leading the majors in hard hit contact rate.

He will be fine. I'm not worried about him.

[chop2chip]

He's always been a cockhead. Now it just can't be concealed. Dude needs to seriously grow the **** up, and the dickless manager needs to pull him aside and chew him like Harang would.
That seems rather unfair.

Seriously, where did all the anti-Freddie vitriol come from?

[Hawk]

I chose to go see my local low-A ballclub play tonight. They got 2-hit and lost, but at least they could catch the baseball. Sounds like I got the better end of the deal, sad as it seems.

I chose to watch the Bruce Jenner reveal. A real cliffhanger.

[Dalyn]

He's not as upbeat as he's been in the past, but he's leading the majors in hard hit contact rate.

He will be fine. I'm not worried about him.

This is not meant as a negative or sarcastic question or anything. I'm genuinely curious. Have you watched much this year? You defend Freeman with this or that without ever addressing the body language and play on the field, so it makes me wonder if you've actually seen him much. He's starting to remind me of how Yunel acted after the team traded Brayan Pena.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Mark Bowman ‏@mlbbowman 2m2 minutes ago
Freeman: "I had to act like a shortstop and obviously, I’m not one of those. So, I just missed the play. It’s on me." #Braves

[Dalyn]

Mark Bowman ‏@mlbbowman 2m2 minutes ago
Freeman: "I just missed the play. It’s on me." #Braves

That's what he should've said.

[Dalyn]

Funny he should mention acting like a shortstop, though. #Yunel

[Braves1976]

AJ's passed ball set up the play but I don't see much about that. Plus Johnson has stinked every game AJ has caught him and looked good with Bethancourt catching him. I'm not saying Johnson will bounce back this year, but I do believe having AJ catch him is not helping his chances.

[Dalyn]

AJ's passball set up the play but I don't see much about that. Plus Johnson has stinked every game AJ has caught him and looked good with Bethancourt catching him. I'm not saying Johnson will bounce back this year, but I do believe having AJ catch him is not helping his chances.

Johnson still has good stuff, but he is mentally shot. Pressure innings are going to eventually get to him, and he'll completely lose it for a handful or more games. He'd probably do well as the 7th-inning guy.

[nsacpi]

Fortunately we have a bunch of veteran leaders on this year's team. One of them will talk to Freeman and get him to straighten out the body language.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Biggest concern I have is the bullpen's workload. The starters have to start going deeper into these games. Cannot afford the starters leaving the game before the seventh inning. That continues and the bullpen will be taxed.

[Julio3000]

I know that Stults had a lot of positive things to say about AJ after his start the other night. On the other hand, to my untrained eye, Bethancourt has looked like a better receiver. Deck chairs on the Titanic, I guess.

I said in ST that I wasn't worried worried about the bullpen, but that was before the Kimbrel deal, obviously. Moving everyone up a notch has obviously exposed some weaknesses . . . not to mention the fact that the starters have been struggling to go beyond 5.

[MadduxFanII]

It's worth acknowledging that we did trade away Carpenter, Shreve, Varvaro and Hale in deals that weren't really necessary for the re-building effort. I'm not saying they were bad trades, and there's a perfectly reasonable argument that gutting the bullpen this year in exchange for some future potential was a good idea. But those are some guys who be helpful right about now.

Oh, and Kimbrel.

[Julio3000]

Yeah, the word on Varvaro was that he was straight garbage and not worth a roster slot. I disputed that then and still do.

[Braves1976]

Spreaking of Shreve, he did great again tonight for the Yankees. I didn't like losing him and considered him the true headliner from our side of that trade. But at the same time the potential that lefty Man-Ban brings made it one of our better trades, IMO.

However, I do agree that losing so many good to great relievers, including Simmons to TJS and Kimbrel who's the best in the business, has really made our bullpen not near the strength that it was in previous seasons.

PS: Did y'all have to remind me that Hale is no longer a Brave? He was my Martin before Martin was Dalyn's Martin, lol. :)

[chop2chip]

This is not meant as a negative or sarcastic question or anything. I'm genuinely curious. Have you watched much this year? You defend Freeman with this or that without ever addressing the body language and play on the field, so it makes me wonder if you've actually seen him much. He's starting to remind me of how Yunel acted after the team traded Brayan Pena.

I try to watch every game, so I have been watching. I did qualify in my post that he doesn't look upbeat this year. I am not disagreeing with that point.

I'm just arguing that if he had any luck with the balls he's hitting in play that we would be singing a different tune to his season. Or in other words, we aren't mad at Freddie that he's not hugging as much, but that he's hitting .230.

He will be fine. He's adjusting and we all have to recognize that he, moreso than any other player on the Braves, was hurt most by the trades made. I'm willing to give the guy a chance to readjust himself.

[chop2chip]

It's worth acknowledging that we did trade away Carpenter, Shreve, Varvaro and Hale in deals that weren't really necessary for the re-building effort. I'm not saying they were bad trades, and there's a perfectly reasonable argument that gutting the bullpen this year in exchange for some future potential was a good idea. But those are some guys who be helpful right about now.

Oh, and Kimbrel.
We also have to keep in mind that the issues our team is having was almost by design. As far as I can tell, the fact that Simmons has made tremendous progress offensively, Bethancourt looks okay (despite what his statistics show), and we have had some promising starts for some of our minor leaguers. Those are what we need to take out of this season, and not whether Jim Johnson is a viable 8th inning option or if Stults and Cahill are dependable starters.

[thewupk]

Biggest concern I have is the bullpen's workload. The starters have to start going deeper into these games. Cannot afford the starters leaving the game before the seventh inning. That continues and the bullpen will be taxed.

Yeah I believe that we have the fewest starter innings of any team. Even with 4 and 5 as crap our starting pitching was supposed to be our strength. It's certainly not that. Reality is sitting in. This is a horrible horrible team.

[thewupk]

Yeah, the word on Varvaro was that he was straight garbage and not worth a roster slot. I disputed that then and still do.

I just don't understand that either. He's no world beater but a 3.14 era in 180 career innings. Better than a lot of options that we have right now.

[Dalyn]

I try to watch every game, so I have been watching. I did qualify in my post that he doesn't look upbeat this year. I am not disagreeing with that point.

I'm just arguing that if he had any luck with the balls he's hitting in play that we would be singing a different tune to his season. Or in other words, we aren't mad at Freddie that he's not hugging as much, but that he's hitting .230.

He will be fine. He's adjusting and we all have to recognize that he, moreso than any other player on the Braves, was hurt most by the trades made. I'm willing to give the guy a chance to readjust himself.

I do think Freeman will be fine as far as stats go. Doesn't change my opinion that his play in this particular game combined with his general attitude throughout the season so far warrants being benched tomorrow.

[chop2chip]

I just don't understand that either. He's no world beater but a 3.14 era in 180 career innings. Better than a lot of options that we have right now.the guy we got for him is doing well in AAA, FWIW. Averaging over a K/9

[chop2chip]

I do think Freeman will be fine as far as stats go. Doesn't change my opinion that his play in this particular game combined with his general attitude throughout the season so far warrants being benched tomorrow.
Do we really want to risk agitating a sleeping snake?

The last thing we need is bad blood with our corner stone

[MadduxFanII]

I haven't been able to watch any of the games (for SOME reason the Braves aren't on national TV much), but it's not difficult to imagine that Freddie's in kind of a bad place right now. You sign a huge long-term contract, than watch all the friends you played with for years get dealt away. The Kimbrel deal seemed particularly devastating. Freddie's still a young guy, and he would have to be almost inhuman not to feel a little crappy about how things have worked out.

[Dalyn]

Yes. Feeling crappy is normal and expected. But you don't bring it on the field and have mopey at-bats and play half-ass defense.

[Dalyn]

Do we really want to risk agitating a sleeping snake?

He's not sleeping. He's already agitated. Someone needs to call him a bad boy and slap his nose and put him back in his cage.

[Dalyn]

The last thing we need is bad blood with our corner stone

I think that ship sailed way back when he was put on the DL without someone talking to him about it.

[weso1]

I know that Stults had a lot of positive things to say about AJ after his start the other night. On the other hand, to my untrained eye, Bethancourt has looked like a better receiver. Deck chairs on the Titanic, I guess.

I said in ST that I wasn't worried worried about the bullpen, but that was before the Kimbrel deal, obviously. Moving everyone up a notch has obviously exposed some weaknesses . . . not to mention the fact that the starters have been struggling to go beyond 5.

Losing Kimbrel and Simmons really changed things. Plus none of the guys who we thought might work out actually earned a spot. Vizcaino with the stanozolololol, Outman not living up to his namesake and Russel being horrible to the point that they just told him to git... etc.

[weso1]

I haven't watched as much of the games this season, but I really haven't noticed Freddie's body language issues. He seems like he always is to me. As for his hitting, it seems like his biggest issue right now is that he's just not hitting into much luck. K% is up and BB% is down, but it's so early that a couple more walks and a couple less K's and the ratio is right where it usually is. The good news is that he's hitting more line drives/fly balls and hitting more HR's.

[nsacpi]

Losing Kimbrel and Simmons really changed things. Plus none of the guys who we thought might work out actually earned a spot. Vizcaino with the stanozolololol, Outman not living up to his namesake and Russel being horrible to the point that they just told him to git... etc.

We need to look on the bright side more around here. Grilli has been great. Martin has been a breath of fresh air. Avilan has rebounded nicely from a disastrous 2014. I have a feeling we'll be happy with Cornely and/or Kohn. Also Donnie Veal is pitching well in AAA. And I think Thomas can pitch at the major league level. I think the team as a whole will be no better than palatable. But the pen is an area where I think some long-term solutions will be found. And I haven't even mentioned guys who are starting in the minors but figure to be in the pen at the major league level. Banuelos for example. Now if only Fredi can figure out how to use these guys without breaking them down.

[weso1]

We need to look on the bright side more around here. Grilli has been great. Martin has been a breath of fresh air. Avilan has rebounded nicely from a disastrous 2014. I have a feeling we'll be happy with Cornely and/or Kohn. Also Donnie Veal is pitching well in AAA. And I think Thomas can pitch at the major league level. I think the team as a whole will be no better than palatable. But the pen is an area where I think some long-term solutions will be found. And I haven't even mentioned guys who are starting in the minors but figure to be in the pen at the major league level. Banuelos for example. Now if only Fredi can figure out how to use these guys without breaking them down.

I agree with that. We'll find some guys for the pen and next year if Simmons can come back that will be a huge improvement. Plus I expect the back end of the rotation to improve by the end of the year.

And then there are the 2 speedsters who could potentially make an impact for us next season.

So it is nice to know that for some of our issues there are some potential fixes on the way soon.

It's just this year would be more enjoyable for me to watch if Fredi would just play the young guys. I just have no interest watching the statue Callaspo trying to move to his left or right to field a groundball. Plus he can't hit. Only reason he's on the team is because he got a bad contract.

[nsacpi]

Callaspo provides indispensable leadership.

[Julio3000]

the guy we got for him is doing well in AAA, FWIW. Averaging over a K/9

Looked good in ST, too. I think MFII's point above is a good one, and worth considering as we move on. My issue with Varvaro was not that I minded trading him for Kurcz. Kurcz is younger and will possibly be an effective major-league reliever relatively soon. It was with the valuation of Varvaro by some folks around here.

I wouldn't be surprised to see a regular shuttle from Gwinnett this year for the bullpen guys, both to assess the talent we have and maybe to save some arms from overuse.

[chop2chip]

Looked good in ST, too. I think MFII's point above is a good one, and worth considering as we move on. My issue with Varvaro was not that I minded trading him for Kurcz. Kurcz is younger and will possibly be an effective major-league reliever relatively soon. It was with the valuation of Varvaro by some folks around here.

I wouldn't be surprised to see a regular shuttle from Gwinnett this year for the bullpen guys, both to assess the talent we have and maybe to save some arms from overuse.
I agree. There is a strong tendency to to undervalue the outflows and overvalue the inflows. Objectivity is a silly thing.

But I still agree with the process. Relievers the quality of Varvaro only make sense in their pre-arbitration years. He had just about used those years up, so it made sense to move him for a guy that has similar upside that hasn't started the arbitration process yet. But what we are experiencing is the downside to trades like that, even if that downside was expected.

[nsacpi]

Other teams, the Orioles for example, have made very effective use of the shuttle in recent years. Time we got with the program. But we do have to plan a bit with the guys who are out of options.
Looked good in ST, too. I think MFII's point above is a good one, and worth considering as we move on. My issue with Varvaro was not that I minded trading him for Kurcz. Kurcz is younger and will possibly be an effective major-league reliever relatively soon. It was with the valuation of Varvaro by some folks around here.

I wouldn't be surprised to see a regular shuttle from Gwinnett this year for the bullpen guys, both to assess the talent we have and maybe to save some arms from overuse.

[Hawk]

Russel being horrible to the point that they just told him to git...

You mean this Russell?

Gordon Wittenmyer
@GDubCub
2 more scoreless innings for James Russell at Iowa Friday. In 4 g, has 9 Ks, no walks, no runs in 6 1/3 IP.

[Julio3000]

You mean this Russell?

Gordon Wittenmyer
@GDubCub
2 more scoreless innings for James Russell at Iowa Friday. In 4 g, has 9 Ks, no walks, no runs in 6 1/3 IP.

That's the fellow! The one those clever boys said had no value whatsoever.

[thewupk]

I know it's early and things could(likely will) change once it warms up but the team slashed line compared to a year ago is pretty telling

2014
241/305/360 - 665

2015
232/300/372 - 672

And yes there are more teams worse then the Braves at this point then there was at the end of last year. But I can easily see this team's slash line being worse then last years.

[nsacpi]

But our weak contact rate will be much improved.
I know it's early and things could(likely will) change once it warms up but the team slashed line compared to a year ago is pretty telling

2014
241/305/360 - 665

2015
232/300/372 - 672

And yes there are more teams worse then the Braves at this point then there was at the end of last year. But I can easily see this team's slash line being worse then last years.

[thewupk]

But our weak contact rate will be much improved.

I agree. K% is down so that's a huge win.

[nsacpi]

Huge.
I agree. K% is down so that's a huge win.

[thewupk]

Huge.

http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/4437281/aaronharang.jpg

[jsebe10]

That's the fellow! The one those clever boys said had no value whatsoever.

Trading Shreve was the head scratcher. Russell fckn sucks and EVERYONE knows that.

[Julio3000]

Trading Shreve was the head scratcher. Russell fckn sucks and EVERYONE knows that.

At least we traded Shreve for Banuelos. We traded Russell for space formerly occupied by James Russell.

[Julio3000]

Trading Shreve was the head scratcher. Russell fckn sucks and EVERYONE knows that.

At least we traded Shreve for Banuelos. We traded Russell for space formerly occupied by James Russell.

[Garmel]

Look at tonight's lineup. Could Fredi be learning? https://www.facebook.com/Braves/photos/a.10150107051247831.278819.35071097830/10152887904657831/?type=1&theater

[weso1]

Didn't the Braves get something like 2 million bucks for releasing Russel though? Where would we be without that money? I'll tell you where we'd be. We'd be without a #5 starter. Just close your eyes for one minute and imagine what this team would look like without Cahill. Imagine that man not lumbering toward the mound, imagine that belly not swaying in the wind in a braves uniform whilest he delivers a pitch ending up God knows where. Imagine him not taking up two spots on the bench... that wooden bench. It aint strong enough. Imagine him not falling on his ass when that bench breaks, naked and afraid, covered in his own sunflower seeds. I want you to picture that big boy. Now... Now imagine he's good.

[Braves1976]

We need to look on the bright side more around here. Grilli has been great. Martin has been a breath of fresh air. Avilan has rebounded nicely from a disastrous 2014. I have a feeling we'll be happy with Cornely and/or Kohn. Also Donnie Veal is pitching well in AAA. And I think Thomas can pitch at the major league level. I think the team as a whole will be no better than palatable. But the pen is an area where I think some long-term solutions will be found. And I haven't even mentioned guys who are starting in the minors but figure to be in the pen at the major league level. Banuelos for example. Now if only Fredi can figure out how to use these guys without breaking them down.

This is a fair point. However, I wouldn't rule out Man-Ban making it as a starter.

[Julio3000]

Didn't the Braves get something like 2 million bucks for releasing Russel though? Where would we be without that money? I'll tell you where we'd be. We'd be without a #5 starter. Just close your eyes for one minute and imagine what this team would look like without Cahill. Imagine that man not lumbering toward the mound, imagine that belly not swaying in the wind in a braves uniform whilest he delivers a pitch ending up God knows where. Imagine him not taking up two spots on the bench... that wooden bench. It aint strong enough. Imagine him not falling on his ass when that bench breaks, naked and afraid, covered in his own sunflower seeds. I want you to picture that big boy. Now... Now imagine he's good.

+1
+1000 if imagined in MM's cornpone accent.

[Julio3000]

Look at tonight's lineup. Could Fredi be learning? https://www.facebook.com/Braves/photos/a.10150107051247831.278819.35071097830/10152887904657831/?type=1&theater

Yeah. Could this be our first GDT without a lineup gripe?

[Braves1976]

That's the fellow! The one those clever boys said had no value whatsoever.

Spring Training is so telling, didn't you know that? Russell is done...

[dak]

You mean this Russell?

Gordon Wittenmyer
@GDubCub
2 more scoreless innings for James Russell at Iowa Friday. In 4 g, has 9 Ks, no walks, no runs in 6 1/3 IP.

I think Russell has a good shot to make it back up . . . if nothing else, for additional depth in September. I certainly don't think the Braves have any regrets on that one.

The one that I was wondering if they might regret was Jose Veras. It seems like he still hasn't caught on anywhere. Kinda surprised.

[Braves1976]

Didn't the Braves get something like 2 million bucks for releasing Russel though? Where would we be without that money? I'll tell you where we'd be. We'd be without a #5 starter. Just close your eyes for one minute and imagine what this team would look like without Cahill. Imagine that man not lumbering toward the mound, imagine that belly not swaying in the wind in a braves uniform whilest he delivers a pitch ending up God knows where. Imagine him not taking up two spots on the bench... that wooden bench. It aint strong enough. Imagine him not falling on his ass when that bench breaks, naked and afraid, covered in his own sunflower seeds. I want you to picture that big boy. Now... Now imagine he's good.

Yea, plus we'd still be stuck with that bum Wandy who looked good his first start back for Texas last night.

[Braves1976]

the guy we got for him is doing well in AAA, FWIW. Averaging over a K/9

Kurcz has 3 saves so far closing for Gwinnett, his strikeout numbers are good but he's also walked 6 in his 6.1 innings. So he needs to cut down on the walks, but other than that I have liked him overall. Further, I don't know about him being a future closer in the Majors but he does remind me a lot of Varvaro.