5/6/15 Phillies at Braves 7:10 PM GDT

[Garmel]

Phillies

1. Ben Revere (L) RF
2. Freddy Galvis (S) SS
3. Cody Asche (L) 3B
4. Ryan Howard (L) 1B
5. Darin Ruf (R) LF
6. Odubel Herrera (L) CF
7. Cesar Hernandez (S) 2B
8. Carlos Ruiz (R) C
9. Jerome Williams (R) P

Braves

1. Nick Markakis (L) RF
2. Andrelton Simmons (R) SS
3. Freddie Freeman (L) 1B
4. Kelly Johnson (L) LF
5. Alberto Callaspo (S) 3B
6. Christian Bethancourt (R) C
7. Jace Peterson (L) 2B
8. Cameron Maybin (R) CF
9. Mike Foltynewicz (R)

[nsacpi]

Expecting a huge game from Bethancourt.

[thethe]

Lets give Folty a nice cushion early on.

I would like to see Nick get a day off sometime soon. Looks tired out there.

[nsacpi]

With Jerome Williams out there, runs are gonna be at a premium. This is where small ball helps.

[sturg33]

Lets give Folty a nice cushion early on.

I would like to see Nick get a day off sometime soon. Looks tired out there.

Yeah - all the sudden he isn't displaying much power

[nsacpi]

Yeah - all the sudden he isn't displaying much power

Looks like that is by design.

[Julio3000]

Yeah - all the sudden he isn't displaying much power

:icwudt:

[The Chosen One]

Expecting a huge game from EY Jr... errr wait holy **** Maybin is in there again!?!!?

[thethe]

Expecting a huge game from EY Jr... errr wait holy **** Maybin is in there again!?!!?

I'm guessing at this point someone finally knocked some sense into Freddi and told him to play Maybin/Peterson everyday.

[chop2chip]

This is the type of lineup I would like to see more of. Just replace Callaspo with Peraza and we are golden.

[Braves1976]

I'm guessing at this point someone finally knocked some sense into Freddi and told him to play Maybin/Peterson everyday.

They've pretty much both forced the issue by contining to hit, Maybin has an .806 OPS and Peterson is now hitting .270 with a .341 OBP to go along with plus defense at second (Peterson has a 3 DRS so far at second).

[thethe]

They've pretty much both forced the issue by contining to hit, Maybin has an .806 OPS and Peterson is now hitting .270 with a .341 OBP to go along with plus defense at second (Peterson has a 3 DRS so far at second).

Yeah, but are they starting because they are performing or performing because they are getting more playing time (at least in Petersons case)?

[Tapate50]

Yeah, but are they starting because they are performing or performing because they are getting more playing time (at least in Petersons case)?

:panic:

[Braves1976]

Yeah, but are they starting because they are performing or performing because they are getting more playing time (at least in Petersons case)?

I agree that it helps that Peterson now has a set place in the line-up and regular playing time. I just don't believe that would be happening if Peterson would've had a couple 0-4 days in a row mixed in. Peterson is hitting .394 in his last ten games and that includes getting on base multiple times in 7 of those last ten games. He hasn't had a game in his last ten where he's not reached base at least once. His only game without a hit he walked twice. That is what I call forcing the issue. Plus he has also been saving runs with his great defense too.

[thethe]

I agree that it helps that Peterson now has a set place in the line-up and regular playing time. I just don't believe that would be happening if Peterson would've had a couple 0-4 days in a row mixed in. Peterson is hitting .394 in his last ten games and that includes getting on base multiple times in 7 of those last ten games. He hasn't had a game in his last ten where he's not reached base at least once. His only game without a hit he walked twice. That is what I call forcing the issue. Plus he has also been saving runs with his great defense too.

I'm a huge fan. YOu are dead on. I'm just glad he was given a chance and it doesn't look like he is going anywhere.

[Braves1976]

I'm a huge fan. YOu are dead on. I'm just glad he was given a chance and it doesn't look like he is going anywhere.

I expect he'll keep playing as long as he continues to hit and reach base via walk. But if he slumps I wouldn't be surprised if Fredi quickly gives him the La Stella treatment again.

That said, I also expect we'll see Peterson stealing more in the future the more he plays. I know he hasn't tried much nor had much success so far but I consider that a fluke, he can steal bases. Maybin should be able to steal more too but batting 8th makes it tougher.

[Braves1976]

BTW, if we want Wood to get back on track Bethancourt needs to start catching him again too. So far pretty much only Miller has shown he can have success with AJ. It is smart to have Bethancourt catch Folty too.

[The Chosen One]

I expect he'll keep playing as long as he continues to hit and reach base via walk. But if he slumps I wouldn't be surprised if Fredi quickly gives him the La Stella treatment again.

That said, I also expect we'll see Peterson stealing more in the future the more he plays. I know he hasn't tried much nor had much success so far but I consider that a fluke, he can steal bases. Maybin should be able to steal more too but batting 8th makes it tougher.

Can't the black guys on the team make an honest living playing the Braves Way without being expected to steal?

[Braves1976]

Can't the black guys on the team make an honest living playing the Braves Way without being expected to steal?

Sure, just so long as they're pitchers. :)

[50PoundHead]

I expect he'll keep playing as long as he continues to hit and reach base via walk. But if he slumps I wouldn't be surprised if Fredi quickly gives him the La Stella treatment again.

That said, I also expect we'll see Peterson stealing more in the future the more he plays. I know he hasn't tried muc(h nor had much success so far but I consider that a fluke, he can steal bases. Maybin should be able to steal more too but batting 8th makes it tougher.

(1) I would guess that Fredi wanted to keep Peterson's "feet under him" and ease him in rather than put him in a sink-or-swim situation that would erode his confidence. Remember the old Yogi Berra quote, "Baseball is ninety percent mental and the other half is physical." Early on, Peterson was K-ing quite a bit and I think Fredi wanted to put him in situations where he could be successful. If Fredi has done one thing right this year, I think it's that he's trying to match guys to situations that play to their strengths. There have been some obvious deviations from that strategy on Fredi's part, but I think he's handled Peterson fairly well. Now he has to simply put Maybin in the line-up every day.

(2) I think La Stella's defense is what put him in Fredi's doghouse. I don't know that for fact obviously and perhaps La Stella's defensive shortcomings were more perceived than real, but as long as Peterson continues to catch the ball, he's not going to be on a playing time yo-yo.

[Braves1976]

(1) I would guess that Fredi wanted to keep Peterson's "feet under him" and ease him in rather than put him in a sink-or-swim situation that would erode his confidence. Remember the old Yogi Berra quote, "Baseball is ninety percent mental and the other half is physical." Early on, Peterson was K-ing quite a bit and I think Fredi wanted to put him in situations where he could be successful. If Fredi has done one thing right this year, I think it's that he's trying to match guys to situations that play to their strengths. There have been some obvious deviations from that strategy on Fredi's part, but I think he's handled Peterson fairly well. Now he has to simply put Maybin in the line-up every day.

(2) I think La Stella's defense is what put him in Fredi's doghouse. I don't know that for fact obviously and perhaps La Stella's defensive shortcomings were more perceived than real, but as long as Peterson continues to catch the ball, he's not going to be on a playing time yo-yo.

I saw the same as what I saw happening with La Stella with the main difference being Peterson started hitting and hasn't stopped yet. And if you mean sitting him vs lefties and pulling him late vs them a few times. I'd argue that only made it tougher when he finally started leaving him in vs them. Further, I also don't believe La Stella's defense put him in Fredi's doghouse since his issues on defense came early on and the timing of his benching and comments by Fredi also were related to how he was hitting. If you check you'll see he got benched when slumping at the plate.

Fredi said Peterson would have to "earn it" if was to play regularly so I guess he earning it right now.

[The Chosen One]

Jurenovich just said on pregame that Fredi said Maybin would be the primary CF (noted he said primary not starting)
Guess that means Maybin will get 3 out of 5 starts compared to EY.

[Enscheff]

Phillies
Braves

1. Nick Markakis (L) RF
2. Andrelton Simmons (R) SS
3. Freddie Freeman (L) 1B
4. Kelly Johnson (L) LF
5. Alberto Callaspo (S) 3B
6. Christian Bethancourt (R) C
7. Jace Peterson (L) 2B
8. Cameron Maybin (R) CF
9. Mike Foltynewicz (R)

Drop Peraza and JUp in there next season (with KJ, Gomes and AJP on the bench), and suddenly you have a pretty good little ball club...

[The Chosen One]

All we need is Wood to rise up and pitch to know how he's capable.

[thewupk]

All we need is Wood to rise up and pitch to know how he's capable.

He needs more cowbell

[Julio3000]

Good start for Folty.

[dak]

That's easily the best inning I've ever seen Foltynewicz pitch.

[The Chosen One]

Phillies will be feeling a little Folty after tonight. :Bowman:

[thewupk]

First time watching Folty. Kid seems to have good stuff.

[Julio3000]

Economical with pitches. One weak gb and two Ks.

[Braves1976]

Good start for Folty.

Yea, but a lot of those pitches they chased were outside. Philly has a terrible line-up without Utley, so hopefully they'll chase all night long. Actually, they're pretty terrible with Utley to be honest but worse without him.

[Braves1976]

If this was Colorado Markakis might've just hit his first homer there. :)

[The Chosen One]

TRON

[thewupk]

"Hit pretty well to left"

Yeah Chip that was hit pretty far for Nick

[Braves1976]

Simmons showed Markakis how you do it, good start.

[Julio3000]

Not Not boom boom

[thewupk]

Andrelton continues to impress

[dak]

Foltynewicz's curve looks a ton better than in the Reds game so far.

[Dalyn]

If this is the new Simmons, and it's thanks to Seitzer, dude earned his pay already.

[Julio3000]

If this is the new Simmons, and it's thanks to Seitzer, dude earned his pay already.

.280 with some walks and pop will do quite nicely.

[dak]

Callaspo showing off his 2.5 inch vertical on that ball off the bag. Not exactly an A for effort.

[Garmel]

Folty's had some bad luck this inning.

[thewupk]

.280 with some walks and pop will do quite nicely.

Yeah and his BB% is almost double his K%. Simmons has been really impressive this year offensively.

[USMA76]

Couple of weak hits in the second inning that I hope don't come back to bite us.

[Julio3000]

Yeah and his BB% is almost double his K%. Simmons has been really impressive this year offensively.

He seems like he has a plan at the plate this year. Really different approach.

[chop2chip]

Folty has easy gas. That's an extremely effortless delivery.

[thethe]

Folty misses his spots a bit too much for my liking. I get that he can get away with it considering how hard he throws it but man he is goign to give up a bunch of homers.

[thethe]

Yeah and his BB% is almost double his K%. Simmons has been really impressive this year offensively.

Setizer baby!

[cajunrevenge]

I had Folty pegged as a future reliever before the season but I am really liking what I am seeing from him. I like the walk that inning, he threw a bunch of fastballs off the plate to see if he would chase knowing the pitcher was up next and then retired the pitcher on 1 pitch down the middle. Seems like every other time we walk the 8th hitter to get to the pitcher we cant throw strikes to the pitcher.

[Dalyn]

.280 with some walks and pop will do quite nicely.

Yep.

[thethe]

Folty is not ready.

[Braves1976]

Haha, Markakis boots it and Revere still held at third. Thanks. :)

[USMA76]

I had Folty pegged as a future reliever before the season but I am really liking what I am seeing from him. I like the walk that inning, he threw a bunch of fastballs off the plate to see if he would chase knowing the pitcher was up next and then retired the pitcher on 1 pitch down the middle. Seems like every other time we walk the 8th hitter to get to the pitcher we cant throw strikes to the pitcher.

Or the pitcher hits a bases clearing double.

[thethe]

Heyward makes that play!

[USMA76]

Great...Ryan Howard gets a free at bat now.

[Garmel]

Good damage control by Folty.

[USMA76]

Hate to see the run score but it could've been worse with Howard at the plate, two on, and nobody out. It seems like Howard has hit about 10 miles worth of home runs against us in those situations.

[chop2chip]

Freeman misplayed that. He should have went to second for the double play with how slow Howard is.

[thethe]

Freeman misplayed that. He should have went to second for the double play with how slow Howard is.

Yup

[Garmel]

Folty is not ready.

Still better than having Cahill out there.

[thethe]

Still better than having Cahill out there.

Definitely. Let him take his lumps this year.

[Braves1976]

Still better than having Cahill out there.

But wait, I thought Cahill had potential? :)

[Garmel]

But wait, I thought Cahill had potential? :)

I think whatever potential Cahill had is long gone.:icon_biggrin:

[Braves1976]

I think whatever potential Cahill had is long gone.:icon_biggrin:

I understand, I just cannot help joking about that since just a month ago when I opposed the trade some made me out as crazy for nothing seeing Cahill as they did. Now it seems most everyone agrees bringing him into a game is like waving the white flag.

[USMA76]

Folty obviously is getting eaten up by his pitch count and not being able to finish off batters.

[Carp]

I think whatever potential Cahill had is long gone.:icon_biggrin:

I think he ate his potential.

[thethe]

Nice inning!

[Braves1976]

I think he ate his potential.

Maybe Harang stole it, er, ate it before leaving for Philly? :)

[thewupk]

Folty is ready

[Carp]

Very efficient inning by Folty there.

[Braves1976]

Nice inning!

Yea, I am just concerned that this won't work against most teams. Tonight's Philly line-up is really terrible minus a few batters and they're chasing stuff way outside. I hope that continues of course but I wouldn't bet on it working most nights against good teams.

[chop2chip]

That slider to Herrera to strike him out was one of the weirdest pitches I have seen. You usually don't see a slider break like that, that high.

[thethe]

Remember when Simmons was supposed to be a no bat fielder?

Yeah, he just may be a top 10 player in terms of overall value now.

[Braves1976]

Simmons almost hit another homer, double this time. Good start to this inning.

[USMA76]

Wow, Andrelton just missed with that one. Halfway to the cycle.

[Julio3000]

Damn, Tron.

[thethe]

Folty is ready

I don't believe so. Not yet.

[thewupk]

Tron

[thethe]

Yea, I am just concerned that this won't work against most teams. Tonight's Philly line-up is really terrible minus a few batters and they're chasing stuff way outside. I hope that continues of course but I wouldn't bet on it working most nights against good teams.

Yeah, Folty misses his locations way too much. Its going to get him in trouble.

[USMA76]

I don't believe so. Not yet.

Agree that he's not "there" but I really like his potential Of course, I'm reminded of the quote "potential just means you haven't really done anything yet."

[thewupk]

Remember when Simmons was supposed to be a no bat fielder?

Yeah, he just may be a top 10 player in terms of overall value now.

If Simmons can be an above average hitter (WRC+ 110 or higher) he will be in the top 10 in WAR*





*for position players only so gilesfan doesn't get butthurt again

[Carp]

Simmons is on fire!!!

http://i56.tinypic.com/spac8y.jpg

[USMA76]

Nice little lob wedge by Freeman there.

[thethe]

Agree that he's not "there" but I really like his potential Of course, I'm reminded of the quote "potential just means you haven't really done anything yet."

He has a chance to be a legit ace pitcher but his control is erratic at best right now.

[Garmel]

I understand, I just cannot help joking about that since just a month ago when I opposed the trade some made me out as crazy for nothing seeing Cahill as they did. Now it seems most everyone agrees bringing him into a game is like waving the white flag.

I still think it was a good idea with the way McDowell fixes sinker ball pitchers. It just didn't work out.

[thewupk]

I don't believe so. Not yet.

He's ready to pitch at the major league level and not get over matched consistently. Yeah, he will have his days where he's not good and take his lumps. But that's what young pitchers usually go through.

[USMA76]

He has a chance to be a legit ace pitcher but his control is erratic at best right now.

No doubt that command of his pitches is an area in he can distinctly improve.

[thethe]

Great AB but even better pitch.

[thethe]

He's ready to pitch at the major league level and not get over matched consistently. Yeah, he will have his days where he's not good and take his lumps. But that's what young pitchers usually go through.

I'm on board with that. He needs to take his lumps. Another ancillary benefit of throwing a season.

[thethe]

BABIPing to death this inning!

[Garmel]

LOL! We've had some bull**** hits this inning. We'll take them.

[USMA76]

Freeman's and Callaspo's hits combined might've made it to the warning track but I'll take them.

[thethe]

Ouch CB. Not good.

[USMA76]

Of course, an inning-ending double play which we seem to have patented this year.

[Garmel]

Damn Bethancourt.

[Russ2dollas]

wonder if it's better for folty to fig it out in the bigs or minors. Minors protects his service time. But majors is where he needs to become comfortable.

I like that he's throwing his other pitches.

Guy needs to repeat his delivery and work on command/control. But he can be effectively wild.

[Julio3000]

Of course, an inning-ending double play which we seem to have patented this year.

Flipside of having the fewest strikeouts in the league, I guess.

[thethe]

Just like in his first outing it looks like FOlty gets better as the game moves along.

[USMA76]

Gotta catch that ball, Maybin.

[thethe]

Geez, you have to make that play Maybin.

[thewupk]

lol @ that defense

[Russ2dollas]

Just like in his first outing it looks like FOlty gets better as the game moves along.

by his own admission his biggest issue is getting nervous/too excited. Getting in the flow and settling down makes sense.

[Dalyn]

Yeah, Folty misses his locations way too much. Its going to get him in trouble.

He's always going to miss his location too much.

[thewupk]

that has to be an error

[USMA76]

Geez, you have to make that play Maybin.

Maybe time to start up the Eric Young, Jr. in centerfield bandwagon...LOL

[Braves1976]

Flipside of having the fewest strikeouts in the league, I guess.

It is true that our two best contact hitters historically also hit into more DP's than average (Simmons has become a DP machine in fact and Callaspo has been such in the past too).

[nsacpi]

wonder if it's better for folty to fig it out in the bigs or minors. Minors protects his service time. But majors is where he needs to become comfortable.

I like that he's throwing his other pitches.

Guy needs to repeat his delivery and work on command/control. But he can be effectively wild.

His breaking ball (not sure if it is a curve or slider) has a lot of potential. He was up for two months last year. I would try to have him be in the minors a total of three months this year, so we can delay free agency by a year. It won't delay arbitration eligibility since he would be a super two in that scenario. Maybe we can slide Williams Perez into the rotation.

[thewupk]

lol Maybin is just laughing it up

[thethe]

Get us another inning Folty!

[thethe]

His breaking ball (not sure if it is a curve or slider) has a lot of potential. He was up for two months last year. I would try to have him be in the minors a total of three months this year, so we can delay free agency by a year. It won't delay arbitration eligibility since he would be a super two in that scenario. Maybe we can slide Williams Perez into the rotation.

I think Folty is in the bigs for good at this piont unless he completely implodes.

[thewupk]

Nick's going to need to start putting some more liners into the gap if he wants to beat that 1.5 WAR projection

[thethe]

What a sweet short stroke from Jace!

[Braves1976]

Peterson with another hit that almost took the pitcher's head off.

[thewupk]

good job Peterson

[Braves1976]

Good job by Maybin too, nice start to the inning.

[thethe]

Nick's going to need to start putting some more liners into the gap if he wants to beat that 1.5 WAR projection

Meanwhile, Peterson is going to blow his WAR projection out of the water.

[USMA76]

Is it legal for the Braves to correctly execute a hit and run play?

[thewupk]

good call Fredi!

[thewupk]

Meanwhile, Peterson is going to blow his WAR projection out of the water.

He's looking good out there

[Braves1976]

I knew Maybin could steal but didn't expect one there. Now maybe Folty can get an RBI again. Yep, RBI sac-fly. Good job Mike!

[USMA76]

Can we use Folty as a PH on nights he doesn't pitch?

[thethe]

Folty is good withthe bat.

[Carp]

Folty helping himself!

[thethe]

He's looking good out there

He might even be the worst player in the deal. How awesome is that?

[thethe]

The stick!

[USMA76]

Markakis keeping the line moving...sorry guys but the devil made me post that.

[thethe]

Type of inning we would have never seen out of last years team!

[thewupk]

He might even be the worst player in the deal. How awesome is that?

If that ends up being the case then the rebuild will go a lot faster

[thethe]

Don't tell me fans aren't watching the team this year and thinking its much more fun than last year.

[USMA76]

Simmons now just needs a triple for the cycle.

[Garmel]

Type of inning we would have never seen out of last years team!

Yeah, especially from the lower end of the batting order.

[Carp]

Nick's going to need to start putting some more liners into the gap if he wants to beat that 1.5 WAR projection

If he keeps getting hits, I don't care what his WAR is. All season he has been about as consistent at the plate as you can be.

[thethe]

If that ends up being the case then the rebuild will go a lot faster

Plus Miller showing some elite stuff with Folty being impressive. Its really early and it could flip completely but I think we can all agree that the four big trades this offseason have been really good ones thus far.

[Carp]

Just need the triple now and Simmons will have the cycle.

[thethe]

Yeah, especially from the lower end of the batting order.

Pfft...from anyone not names Freeman last year. The team was a joke aside from Freeman/Justin and sometimes Gattis.

[USMA76]

Now we're back into the Phillies bullpen after hammering them last night and our bullpen got the night off...so we've got that going for us

[thethe]

Now we're back into the Phillies bullpen after hammering them last night and our bullpen got the night off...so we've got that going for us

Let Folty throw 120 tonight. Hopefully get through 7.

[thewupk]

If he keeps getting hits, I don't care what his WAR is. All season, he has been a bout as consistent at the plate as you can be.

Sure. But he's really helped by his high BB% this year and a lot of BABIPing the first 3 weeks of the season. Still a 290 average with a 320 SLG is not good. And he's really struggled since moving to the leadoff spot.

In all reality to this point in the season he has played almost exactly like many predicted. Above average hitter with bad defense. The only thing is his BB% is much higher then most expected and his SLG is worse then most expected.

[USMA76]

Let Folty throw 120 tonight. Hopefully get through 7.

Not sure we want him to go that deep when he's still getting his feet wet as a major league pitcher. If we could get him through the next inning with the lead, I'd think that'd be okay?

[thewupk]

Plus Miller showing some elite stuff with Folty being impressive. Its really early and it could flip completely but I think we can all agree that the four big trades this offseason have been really good ones thus far.

Yeah there is no doubt about that. And we needed that to happen to, imo.

[Carp]

Honestly just need 1 more inning from Folty. But 2 more would be nice.

[thethe]

Its so nice to watch a Brave team that I enjoy. Thank you John Hart.

[Carp]

MORE RUNS!!!!

[thewupk]

Its so nice to watch a Brave team that I enjoy. Thank you John Hart.

And the Phillies for being horrible

[dak]

We've got a good chance to see Williams Perez tonight.

[thethe]

Not sure we want him to go that deep when he's still getting his feet wet as a major league pitcher. If we could get him through the next inning with the lead, I'd think that'd be okay?

He is a big dude and will be the horse potentially at one point. See how he is feeling after the sixth if he finishes the inning and then decide. But you're probably right.

[USMA76]

Its so nice to watch a Brave team that I enjoy. Thank you John Hart.

The team has no shortage of warts but they sure have been fun to watch the last couple of nights. Remembering an eight run lead blown against the Nats reminds me this one isn't over.

[Dalyn]

Folty hitting well so far.

[thethe]

And the Phillies for being horrible

Yeah, the Phillies suck but I enjoy this brand of baseball. Just a personal preference.

[thethe]

The team has no shortage of warts but they sure have been fun to watch the last couple of nights. Remembering an eight run lead blown against the Nats reminds me this one isn't over.

Its incredible if you think about it. The Braves absolutely blew 3 games this year they had no business of losing. Could be in a race right now if not for those.

[Braves1976]

And the Phillies for being horrible

Yep, Philly is truly terrible and there is really no excuse to lose to them unless say Hamels is pitching and just pitches a gem. The Phillies should have a real shot at being the worst team in the NL if not all of MLB this year.

[CyYoung31]

Its so nice to watch a Brave team that I enjoy. Thank you John Hart.

Please STFU.

[USMA76]

Bethancourt overmatched against the heat--swung at some high fastballs that were clearly out of the zone and got himself out. Seitzer's got some work to do in that regard.

[thethe]

Please STFU.

Easy guy. I haven't got to enjoy Braves baseball in a while because of the crap from last year. Just put me on ignore. There is no need to be such a Dbag.

[thethe]

Thats ok Folty. Just keep going after the hitters.

[USMA76]

Ryan Howard with what seems like his 200th HR against us in his career.

[Garmel]

I hate Howard. I really do.

[Braves1976]

I hate Howard. I really do.

If he keeps showing some power they might trade him to the AL at some point, but they'll have to eat much of that contract to do so.

[Braves1976]

Jace got him at first it seems but since called safe they probably don't overturn it.

[Hawk]

Looked safe, even if not ... too close to call?

[dak]

Perhaps I'm in the minority here, but I don't necessarily feel like this year offensive "style" is any more or less fun to watch than last year's style. I enjoy watching the Braves score runs, no matter how they do it. And on the days when we're not scoring runs, it sucks just as much as when we had those days last year.

[USMA76]

He looked out but I've got on my Braves goggles so I'm not optimistic.

[Braves1976]

Perhaps I'm in the minority here, but I don't necessarily feel like this year offensive "style" is any more or less fun to watch than last year's style. I enjoy watching the Braves score runs, no matter how they do it. And on the days when we're not scoring runs, it sucks just as much as when we had those days last year.

Agreed. Plus if you tell me you don't like seeing your team's players hit homeruns I don't believe it. :)

[thethe]

Damn, Folty. You have to finish that off.

[thethe]

Agreed. Plus if you tell me you don't like seeing your team's players hit homeruns I don't believe it. :)

Of course I like homeruns. I don't like strikeouts.

[CyYoung31]

Easy guy. I haven't got to enjoy Braves baseball in a while because of the crap from last year. Just put me on ignore. There is no need to be such a Dbag.

Please STFU.

[Julio3000]

lol @ that defense


Perhaps I'm in the minority here, but I don't necessarily feel like this year offensive "style" is any more or less fun to watch than last year's style. I enjoy watching the Braves score runs, no matter how they do it. And on the days when we're not scoring runs, it sucks just as much as when we had those days last year.

Yup.

[Braves1976]

LOL@CY sticking to his guns RE: thethe. :)

[dak]

Nice start for Folty. Still some overall command issues, but the secondary pitches were a lot better than his first start.

[USMA76]

Please STFU.

Seriously, I don't see what thethe said to warrant that response. For my money, he's one of the absolute best posters on this board (and, no, we're not going to "get a room.")

[Carp]

Perhaps I'm in the minority here, but I don't necessarily feel like this year offensive "style" is any more or less fun to watch than last year's style. I enjoy watching the Braves score runs, no matter how they do it. And on the days when we're not scoring runs, it sucks just as much as when we had those days last year.

But we're scoring runs more often, thanks in large part to timely hitting (and yes, home runs as well) which we didn't have last year. We left so many runners on base last year it was ridiculous.

[Dalyn]

RELEASE THE MARTIN! :tchop:

[thewupk]

So who's ready to start the Tron 4 MVP movement?

[Dalyn]

RELEASE THE MARTIN! :tchop:

https://static-blogmediainc.netdna-ssl.com/resize/500/x?url=https://blog-blogmediainc.netdna-ssl.com/upload/SportsBlogcom/1968622/0867976001430412355_upload/SportsBlogcom/1968622/0688928001430412352_newscred.jpg.jpg

[thewupk]

But we're scoring runs more often, thanks in large part to timely hitting (and yes, home runs as well) which we didn't have last year. We left so many runners on base last year it was ridiculous.

Well getting all-star hitting out of Maybin, KJ, and Tron have helped. AJ being white hot for 2 weeks helped a ton. I would say those have all been unexpected.

[CyYoung31]

So who's ready to start the Tron 4 MVP movement?

thethe has to already be driving that train, so I'll ride shotgun.

[Julio3000]

So who's ready to start the Tron 4 MVP movement?

Probably David Schoenfield. And Julio3000.

[CyYoung31]

Seriously, I don't see what thethe said to warrant that response. For my money, he's one of the absolute best posters on this board (and, no, we're not going to "get a room.")

Everything thethe says warrants that response.

[Braves1976]

Well, at least Frenchy hasn't started the last two nights as he still owns us.

[thewupk]

Probably David Schoenfield. And Julio3000.

I'd be shocked if he didn't have an article about it tonight

[USMA76]

Frenchy going all Uggla on us again. 6-3 and we need to put a stop to this.

[thethe]

Everything thethe says warrants that response.

At some point you have to get over the Braves trading Heyward. Everyone else is getting there.

[Braves1976]

Probably David Schoenfield. And Julio3000.

Simmons has always been our MVP in my book due to his amazing defense. Now that he's hitting that just makes it more obvious.

[Dalyn]

What a waste with Martin. Silly.

[CyYoung31]

At some point you have to get over the Braves trading Heyward. Everyone else is getting there.

NEVAR!!!!!!

[Julio3000]

I've enjoyed the hell out of the last two nights. That said, we're looking at closing out of series win against a godawful Phillies club, and finishing a homestand 5-5. I like it when we win, and not so much when we lose, same as last year and every other. Every win doesn't have to be a slap in the face to last year's club.

[thethe]

I can't believe how much the pitching has let the team down this year.

[thewupk]

Simmons has always been our MVP in my book due to his amazing defense. Now that he's hitting that just makes it more obvious.

I agree. He really needs to make the ASG this year.

[TDlxANDER]

Sooooooooo, about the bullpen...

[USMA76]

Enough of this crap. One more base hit and this game is tied...smh.

[Julio3000]

What a waste with Martin. Silly.

Over-managing a tad.

[thewupk]

I've enjoyed the hell out of the last two nights. That said, we're looking at closing out of series win against a godawful Phillies club, and finishing a homestand 5-5. I like it when we win, and not so much when we lose, same as last year and every other. Every win doesn't have to be a slap in the face to last year's club.

Let's not speak too soon about night. Our pitching is crap.

[dak]

Wow, Markakis had Revere played damn-near in centerfield. What the hell.

[USMA76]

I've enjoyed the hell out of the last two nights. That said, we're looking at closing out of series win against a godawful Phillies club, and finishing a homestand 5-5. I like it when we win, and not so much when we lose, same as last year and every other. Every win doesn't have to be a slap in the face to last year's club.

Right now we're struggling with that whole "closing out the Phillies" thing. Three runs in this inning.

[Dalyn]

At some point you have to get over the Braves trading Heyward. Everyone else is getting there.

http://mediadownloads.mlb.com/mlbam/2014/11/19/images/mlbf_36942499_th_45.jpg

[Braves1976]

I've enjoyed the hell out of the last two nights. That said, we're looking at closing out of series win against a godawful Phillies club, and finishing a homestand 5-5. I like it when we win, and not so much when we lose, same as last year and every other. Every win doesn't have to be a slap in the face to last year's club.

Yep and it is annoying seeing that when we win so much along with all the shots at..

[TURBO]

Please STFU.

This was uncalled for.

[thethe]

I've enjoyed the hell out of the last two nights. That said, we're looking at closing out of series win against a godawful Phillies club, and finishing a homestand 5-5. I like it when we win, and not so much when we lose, same as last year and every other. Every win doesn't have to be a slap in the face to last year's club.

Everything should slap last years offense in the face.

[thethe]

http://mediadownloads.mlb.com/mlbam/2014/11/19/images/mlbf_36942499_th_45.jpg

Great trade!

[Dalyn]

The offense is MUCH more fun to watch (wish we had Seitzer working with Justin), but the pitching sure isn't.

[thethe]

Man, you have to LOVE LOVE LOVE Jace Peterson.

[USMA76]

Great trade!

I was disappointed by the trade but, in the big picture IMO, it made sense.

[thewupk]

Peterson's BB% is very impressive

[dak]

Man, you have to LOVE LOVE LOVE Jace Peterson.

Jace's OBP now sitting at 0.352. Decent.

[thewupk]

Jace's OBP now sitting at 0.352. Decent.

Now only if he didn't have Markakis power

[thethe]

Braves1976 called the Jace steals!

[USMA76]

Braves1976 called the Jace steals!

Gotta get him home to wrest the momentum back from Philly.

[jsebe10]

News flash. Gomes can't hit righties

[Dalyn]

News flash. Gomes can't hit righties

:FrediGreen:

[Hawk]

Chip, what the **** was that drivel?

[WaitingFor2017]

Gomez has Steve Trachsel-like pace. Hurry up, kid.

[TDlxANDER]

THAT WAS SO CLOSE TO BEING A HR!!!

[thethe]

Markakis is awesome.

[USMA76]

This Markakis guy has some clutchness to him.

[DirkPiggler]

Markakis with a half-homer.

[thewupk]

MARKAKIS POWER!

[Julio3000]

Markakis hit that almost to the track.

[thewupk]

Chip, what the **** was that drivel?

racist

[thethe]

This Markakis guy has some clutchness to him.

Clutch is real.

[chop2chip]

racist
It definitely came across as such

[cajunrevenge]

Such a weird season. Trade our best hitters for mostly pitching and our hitting got better and our pitching got worse.

[USMA76]

If I never saw this guy [Howard] bat against us again, I'd be perfectly okay with that.

[Dalyn]

If I never saw this guy [Howard] bat against us again, I'd be perfectly okay with that.

Very close to how the Phillies feel, actually. Just delete "against us" and it fits perfectly.

[USMA76]

Very close to how the Phillies feel, actually. Just delete "against us" and it fits perfectly.

Howard's done more damage against us than Chipper did against the Mets--yeah, that bad.

[chop2chip]

Simmons wRC+ is 131

That's scary.

[thewupk]

Simmons wRC+ is 131

That's scary.

And awesome

[USMA76]

Avilan with strike three on a "Bugs Bunny" pitch.

[thethe]

And awesome

Wasn't Simmons supposed to suck offensively. I know someone on this board said so.

[Runnin]

Does Timothy Miller sing God Bless America at EVERY home game. He's great an all but how about a little more variety.

[Braves1976]

Braves1976 called the Jace steals!

I missed the stolen base as I jumped in the shower after watching him walk. But I at least caught Maybin's stolen base tonight, lol.

[USMA76]

Does Timothy Miller sing God Bless America at EVERY home game. He's great an all but how about a little more variety.

I think he just sings on Sundays and on occasions when we're honoring servicemen, policemen, firefighters, etc. I think Joe Simpson said something about this being Vietnam Vets night.

[Runnin]

I think he just sings on Sundays and on occasions when we're honoring servicemen, policemen, firefighters, etc. I think Joe Simpson said something about this being Vietnam Vets night.I guess it just seems like every game. The way he rolls his "r" on America sounds Russian. lol

[Julio3000]

Ha! I was right about Millwood and the sub-100 pitch shutout.

[TDlxANDER]

Jim Johnson's keys to success:

1. Make people hit the ball to Andrelton.
2. Have awesome last name.

[Julio3000]

Long John with a clean frame.

[thewupk]

Remember when Freeman was having a 'down year' 2 weeks ago?

[thewupk]

Wasn't Simmons supposed to suck offensively. I know someone on this board said so.

I wouldn't say suck. Nobody expected him to be great or as bad as he was last year. I think most people expected him to be between his 2012 and 2013 numbers and be content with it.

[chop2chip]

Remember when Freeman was having a 'down year' 2 weeks ago?
I definitely remember people ignoring him murdering the ball because he wasnt hugging as much.

[Garmel]

Ho Hum. Peterson with another two hit game.

[Julio3000]

Peterson is on it.

[Braves1976]

Peterson on base three times tonight. How about another steal?

Oh Maybin, you didn't give Peterson time to steal!

That said, Peterson is now hitting .286 on the season.

[USMA76]

Revere on base and Howard lurking in the background.

[dak]

Chip with the 2015 debut of his "it's that age old question of rest versus rust" line. Hate this one.

[Garmel]

*sigh*

[sturg33]

Please STFU.

this legit made me LOL for a solid 40 seconds

[USMA76]

Grilli laboring in this inning after a soft hit.

[Carp]

Come on Grill Cheese! Close the door already!

[USMA76]

Ballgame and back to .500!

[TURBO]

http://media1.giphy.com/media/4wMlW2RcOCVCU/giphy.gif

[Carp]

Woo-hoo!