5/21/15 Brewers @ Braves

[Garmel]

Brewers
1. Carlos Gomez (R) CF
2. Gerardo Parra (L) LF
3. Ryan Braun (R) RF
4. Adam Lind (L) 1B
5. Aramis Ramirez (R) 3B
6. Elian Herrera (S) 2B
7. Juan Centeno (L) C
8. Matt Garza (R) P
9. Luis Sardinas (S) SS

Braves
1. Jace Peterson (L) 2B
2. Cameron Maybin (R) CF
3. Freddie Freeman (L) 1B
4. Nick Markakis (L) RF
5. Jonny Gomes (R) LF
6. Alberto Callaspo (S) 3B
7. Andrelton Simmons (R) SS
8. Christian Bethancourt (R) C
9. Julio Teheran (R) P

[Garmel]

They finally moved Maybin up in the order. Good for Fredi.

[clvclv]

They finally moved Maybin up in the order. Good for Fredi.

LOVE seeing that much speed in front of Freddie - I'd personally flip-flop Markakis and Gomes and Simmons and Callaspo, but still more than happy enough to see a good chance to manufacture a run without a hit early.

[MadduxFanII]

How much more rope does Callaspo get? A .211/.300/.263 line coming off a 66 OPS+ season doesn't inspire confidence. Is he gone when C. Johnson gets back?

[Julio3000]

How much more rope does Callaspo get? A .211/.300/.263 line coming off a 66 OPS+ season doesn't inspire confidence. Is he gone when C. Johnson gets back?

With any luck.

[CyYoung31]

Chrystal Beth sighting.

[The Chosen One]

Hopefully the Braves mentally have convinced themselves we're playing the Fish again with Sardinas on the mound.

[stpeteirish]

How much more rope does Callaspo get? A .211/.300/.263 line coming off a 66 OPS+ season doesn't inspire confidence. Is he gone when C. Johnson gets back?

had our only RBI hit last night.

[cajunrevenge]

This is a series we need to win 3 or 4. Upcoming Dogers/Giants series will be tough.

[Garmel]

Julio was really good with his location that inning. I haven't seen that from him in awhile.

[chop2chip]

Glad to see 2014 Julio is back. At least for that inning anyway.

[Dalyn]

Can't believe what we're getting out of Maybin. He looks good.

[Dalyn]

Offensively, that is. He hasn't looked that great on defense.

[thethe]

Can't believe what we're getting out of Maybin. He looks good.

And the baserunning as well. Looks awesome. Could be the long term CF.

[Tapate50]

And the baserunning as well. Looks awesome. Could be the long term CF.

Like him as a 4th OF a LOT. Some pop, speed, and some D.

[thethe]

Love me some Markakis.

[thethe]

Like him as a 4th OF a LOT. Some pop, speed, and some D.

Yeah, at the very least. You could live with him at hte corners as well since he produces at the plate.

[Dalyn]

Not sure how much longer Gomes should stick around.

[Garmel]

Moving Maybin to the 2nd slot has already paid dividends.

[chop2chip]

Not sure how much longer Gomes should stick around.
We haven't faced many lefty starters so it skews Gomes performance because Fredi has had to throw him in some games against righties. He has an OPS of 1.118 against lefties this year.

[thethe]

Teheran got threw those first 2 innings quickly. Hopefully he cna give us 7+ tonight.

[chop2chip]

This is his first time since his second start of the year that's he's been able to locate his off speed pitches.

[weso1]

We haven't faced many lefty starters so it skews Gomes performance because Fredi has had to throw him in some games against righties. He has an OPS of 1.118 against lefties this year.

I think a KJ/Gomes platoon out there could put up an .850 OPS. Of course KJ is hurt right now.

[Braves1976]

Teheran's velocity is down again tonight but he's had success with it so far.

[chop2chip]

Teheran's velocity is down again tonight but he's had success with it so far.
What do you mean by "again"? On the year his velocity is up from last year.

[zbhargrove]

Sometimes its easy to forget Teheran is still only in his age 24 season... just seems like he's been around forever.

[zbhargrove]

What do you mean by "again"? On the year his velocity is up from last year.

Bowman reporting that he's only averaging around the upper 80s with this fastball

[Braves1976]

What do you mean by "again"? On the year his velocity is up from last year.

His velocity was also down one of the games after the knee situation, it was even noted in a tweet by Bowman.

[Braves1976]

Bowman reporting that he's only averaging around the upper 80s with this fastball

Yep, I see he is noting it again tonight here:

@mlbbowman · 9m 9 minutes ago
Teheran's first 2 FBs of the 2nd inn: 84, 85...First 2 FBs of the third: 86, 86. But he's primarily sat 88-90 and his past 2 FBs touched 91

[57Brave]

Is he getting guys out

[zbhargrove]

His average fastball velocity was greater than last year before the knee incident... since then, the sharp drop off has caused him to fall down to about the same as last year so he's definitely not right velocity wise for whatever reason.

[zbhargrove]

Is he getting guys out

He seems to throw about 4-5 innings and then has struggled... and right now he's struggling to get guys out in the 4th...

[Garmel]

He's throwing more of the 2 seam fastball tonight. That's why it's in the 88-89 range.

[chop2chip]

His average fastball velocity was greater than last year before the knee incident... since then, the sharp drop off has caused him to fall down to about the same as last year so he's definitely not right velocity wise for whatever reason.
Before the knee injury? That was like 10 innings. That wouldn't be enough to skew the data higher.

The perception is that his velocity has been down this year because the results have been bad. But the data tells a different story.

[UNCBlue012]

Can we sit Freddie for a day or nah?

[chop2chip]

Bowman reporting that he's only averaging around the upper 80s with this fastballTonight. I agree. But that could be due to a variety of things.

[WaitingFor2017]

Looks like the offense was left behind in Miami....but then again, the Braves did a lot of their scoring in that series in one inning of each game.

[chop2chip]

The walk to Gomez is the only bad at bat he's had all game. Julio looks masterful tonight.

[jsebe10]

Can we sit Freddie for a day or nah?

Nah.

But there is no reason for that clown at 3rd or the over achiever whos only in the bigs because of his mean streak, should be in the lineup

[USMA76]

I can't believe the Mets sent something like 14 men to the plate in a single inning against Garza.

[Braves1976]

I can't believe the Mets sent something like 14 men to the plate in a single inning against Garza.

I can, Garza when he is off he is sometimes batting practice bad. But when he's on he's like he is so far tonight.

I'd have Peterson or Maybin bunt on him, maybe that will make him mad and take him off his game.

[jsebe10]

Christ...and they both get hits this innings.

[Braves1976]

Good start to this inning, he gave both Gomes and Callaspo pitches to hit.

[Braves1976]

What was Callaspo doing stopping there? Bad read by him. Garza is terrible at fielding bunts.

[USMA76]

I'm sure glad that managed to sneak under the second baseman's glove.

[Braves1976]

That'll work!

[Braves1976]

I'm sure glad that managed to sneak under the second baseman's glove.

Yea, I thought he'd come up with it. Very close to doing so.

[WaitingFor2017]

Counsell looks like a bat-boy out there.

[chop2chip]

Hate taking Julio out of this game, but it makes sense. Great game for Julio.

[USMA76]

Counsell looks like a bat-boy out there.

Agreed--but as a player, he was a baby-faced assassin.

[WaitingFor2017]

Fredi burns a switch hitter in a close game?

[jsebe10]

God damn I fckn hate you Fredi! You fckn idiot piece of sh*t. Way to burn the switch hitting Cunningham you butt fckn MORON. Please fire that fckn clown

[USMA76]

Two horrible swings by Ciriaco but bailed out with a HBP.

[WaitingFor2017]

Jace has been up with the bases loaded quite frequently in the last 6 days.

[USMA76]

Watching Smith leave the game, I'm reminded of a quote by the late Skip Carey, "For those of you who read lips at home--don't."

[CrimsonCowboy]

I can't see the game because storms are messing up my signal, but a Brewers pitcher just got caught with something? Man.

[dak]

Wow. Will Smith letting Fredi Gonzalez have it!

[Fredi Gonzalez]

Nothing gets past me!

[WaitingFor2017]

Smith must be a poor sport. He breaks the rules and then curses his way (at Fredi and the umps) all the way to his dugout? Come on, man.

[Garmel]

Will Smith was giving Fredi the big "eff you".

[Braves1976]

Well, that was interesting but not surprising he got caught. That was too obvious, reminded me of that Yankees pitcher getting caught last year.

[dak]

I can't see the game because storms are messing up my signal, but a Brewers pitcher just got caught with something? Man.

Yep, Will Smith had what was obviously a foreign substance on his arm. Fredi said something to umps and he was tossed. Smith cussed Fredi out from a distance as he walked off the field.

[Five]

Great job Fredi. Awesome work.

**** that Cunttt talking ****, what a douche bag. Cheating ****.

[WaitingFor2017]

Smith is a dumba$$. If you do that, put that stuff on the inside of your arm -- not on the easily-visible outside.

[Garmel]

God damn I fckn hate you Fredi! You fckn idiot piece of sh*t. Way to burn the switch hitting Cunningham you butt fckn MORON. Please fire that fckn clown

That and having Simmons bunt with the 8th and 9th guys coming up.

[GovClintonTyree]

Fredi is the finest manager the Braves could have.

Awesome job.

[jsebe10]

Smith is a dumba$$. If you do that, put that stuff on the inside of your arm -- not on the easily-visible outside.

Hilarious.

[weso1]

lol at that hot head being mad at Fredi. You got busted dude. Be mad at yourself for making it so obvious.

[rico43]

God damn I fckn hate you Fredi! You fckn idiot piece of sh*t. Way to burn the switch hitting Cunningham you butt fckn MORON. Please fire that fckn clown

You add nothing to this thread when you're like this. Sober up, grow up and keep me from having to put you on my permanent ignore list.

[CrimsonCowboy]

http://ts1.mm.bing.net/th?id=JN.SADNm6JA3NzrJg7X43rJ5Q&pid=15.1

[USMA76]

Will Smith was giving Fredi the big "eff you".

As was the entire Brewers dugout. Screw 'em.

[CrimsonCowboy]

ESPN Commentary ‏@ESPNCommentary 43s44 seconds ago
When umpires find a foreign substance, do they check nation of origin?

[Braves1976]

Good job Peterson, I thought Gomez might catch it but it got down in time.

[jsebe10]

lol at that hot head being mad at Fredi. You got busted dude. Be mad at yourself for making it so obvious.

Lol no kidding.

[rico43]

ESPN Commentary ‏@ESPNCommentary 43s44 seconds ago
When umpires find a foreign substance, do they check nation of origin?

I thought MLB now called it "an international substance"!

[jsebe10]

Maybin with the dagger here. Double down the line

[CrimsonCowboy]

Only appropriate that the Brewers have a pitcher get caught cheating, considering who the face of their franchise is..............

[WaitingFor2017]

The three guys on base belong to 3 different pitchers.

[thethe]

How can you not love this team?

[USMA76]

I thought MLB now called it "an international substance"!

I hear it will be legalized via an executive order.

[dak]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CFkpnCvUsAAVAAU.jpg

[Braves1976]

Good job Maybin and Freeman!

[Braves1976]

My boy Mallex Smith is a one man wrecking crew tonight for Mississippi, he has three hits including a double, has two stolen bases of second and third, two runs scored, RBI and a BB. Mississippi as a team only has 6 hits, they lead 3-2 thanks to Smith.

[drewdat]

http://ts1.mm.bing.net/th?id=JN.SADNm6JA3NzrJg7X43rJ5Q&pid=15.1

Who else? Will Smith.

[jsebe10]

My boy Mallex Smith is a one man wrecking crew tonight for Mississippi, he has three hits including a double, has two stolen bases of second and third, two runs scored, RBI and a BB. Mississippi as a team only has 6 hits, they lead 3-2 thanks to Smith.

He needs to be in Gwinnette. He's raked all year.

[thethe]

My boy Mallex Smith is a one man wrecking crew tonight for Mississippi, he has three hits including a double, has two stolen bases of second and third, two runs scored, RBI and a BB. Mississippi as a team only has 6 hits, they lead 3-2 thanks to Smith.

Its going to be so damn exciting next year when Smith and Peraza are called up:

Peterson
Maybin
Freeman
Markakis
Simmons
Smith
CB
Pitcher
Peraza

YES PLEASE!

[thethe]

Markakis is going to be just fine as a Brave.

[Garmel]

Bad News Brewers out there.

[Braves1976]

He needs to be in Gwinnette. He's raked all year.

They finally got him out, but he's still hitting .336 on the season so far. So yea he's raked for Mississippi.

[CrimsonCowboy]

I think the Brewers second baseman had some of that substance on his fingers.

[Braves1976]

Bad News Brewers out there.

Yea, showing why they're bad this year.

[Five]

Wow. Next time somebody says we're bad, just remember this. Ugly.

[jsebe10]

Markakis is going to be just fine as a Brave.

Nice piece of hitting Huh? Love when it kisses that line like that.

[thethe]

Nice piece of hitting Huh? Love when it kisses that line like that.

Just that he is able to put the bat on so many different types of pitches in different locations is great. I'm sure he can impart a lot of wisdom on our young hitters. I suspect his hitting philosophy is in line with what Seitzer preaches.

[Braves1976]

Maybin continues to do well at the plate for us, plus he had a nice play on defense tonight too. If he keeps this up he might bring a nice piece in a trade at some point.

[chop2chip]

Maybin continues to do well at the plate for us, plus he had a nice play on defense tonight too. If he keeps this up he might bring a nice piece in a trade at some point.
His defense has been excellent since the Harper double.

[thethe]

Maybin continues to do well at the plate for us, plus he had a nice play on defense tonight too. If he keeps this up he might bring a nice piece in a trade at some point.

I'm sorry but if he keeps this up then they should just keep him. A one time top 10 prospect finally healthy. I'll take him!

[Fredi Gonzalez]

About time for Avilan to start warming up.

[thethe]

About time for Avilan to start warming up.

Why not Venters?

[CrimsonCowboy]

Chipper Jones ‏@RealCJ10 58s59 seconds ago
I can't wait to hear this MIL pitchers explanation for why hes mad at Fredi. Should be classic!

[Braves1976]

I'm sorry but if he keeps this up then they should just keep him. A one time top 10 prospect finally healthy. I'll take him!

Maybe through this year but I like our other options for CF going forward and Maybin won't have the same value as a corner outfielder. Plus he makes 8 million next year that could be used to fill other needs. I think they'll trade him at some point if they can get a nice return.

[weso1]

Will be interesting to see if the Brew Crew throws at one of our guys this inning.

[WaitingFor2017]

Stults or Cahill for the 9th.

[Braves1976]

Stults or Cahill for the 9th.

Flip a coin. :)

[thethe]

Maybe through this year but I like our other options for CF going forward and Maybin won't have the same value as a corner outfielder. Plus he makes 8 million next year that could be used to fill other needs. I think they'll trade him at some point if they can get a nice return.

If the right oppotunity comes around then sure anybody aside from Freeman/Simmons/Teheran/Miller are on the table in my eyes. However, I know you haven't forgotten but Maybin at one point was thought to be a superstar in the making. That ability is still in there and depending on how he ends up I would seriously consider keeping him part of hte core. His offense from CF could be pivotal for the team moving forward.

[thethe]

SO assuming they win tonight thats 5 out of the last 6 with Wood/Miller coming up. Not bad.

[Fredi Gonzalez]

Why not Venters?

He stopped answering the phone a long time ago.

[CyYoung31]

Will Smith was giving Fredi the big "eff you".

Smith must be a Braves fan.

[Fredi Gonzalez]

Flip a coin. :)

Avilan.

[thethe]

Smith must be a Braves fan.

Well done...

[WaitingFor2017]

3 hit game for the kid. That deserves a start tomorrow, Fredito.

[thethe]

Could we please play CB everyday?

[thethe]

3 hit game for the kid. That deserves a start tomorrow, Fredito.

You mean a benching right?

Freddi...thoughts?

[CrimsonCowboy]

From CBS Sports:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CFku-M-WYAEV23p.png

[Garmel]

Nice hit by Christian. Maybe it's my imagination but it looks like his bat speed isn't as slow as it has been.

[keithlaw]

Will Smith was giving Fredi the big "eff you".

I thought he told him to get jiggy with himself

[WaitingFor2017]

Ciriaco has had 2 miserable at-bats tonight in which he was bailed out on one of them.

Can Fredi please start Garcia a couple of games this weekend before CJ's return in LA?

[thethe]

I thought he told him to get jiggy with himself

Love you KLaw but this deserves negative "thanks".

[Fredi Gonzalez]

You mean a benching right?

Freddi...thoughts?

He might be a bit sore running the bases so much.

[Braves1976]

Nice comeback that AB by Peterson, worked another walk after falling behind. He seems to have a lot of full count AB's.

[thethe]

I really like Jace.

Incredible that he was the 3rd or 4th piece in the deal.

[Braves1976]

Ciriaco has had 2 miserable at-bats tonight in which he was bailed out on one of them.

Can Fredi please start Garcia a couple of games this weekend before CJ's return in LA?

Thank you!

[Braves1976]

I really like Jace.

Incredible that he was the 3rd or 4th piece in the deal.

It seems just when you think he's having a bad AB, then he has the count full after fouling off some tough pitches.

[thethe]

Nice comeback that AB by Peterson, worked another walk after falling behind. He seems to have a lot of full count AB's.

Huge to have those type of hitters in a lineup. Markakis is like that as well. Gets into the soft part of the opposing teams pen that way.

[USMA76]

Huge to have those type of hitters in a lineup. Markakis is like that as well. Gets into the soft part of the opposing teams pen that way.

For all the player transactions we made during the offseason, perhaps the most important signing was that of Kevin Seitzer.

[thethe]

CB's got some wheels. You can tell he is an athlete. If that bat can come around I feel like he will hit for some power.

[Russ2dollas]

I'd sell high on Maybin....don't expect him to stay healthy or play well. Plus we have Mallex......He's someone you could actually flip for a B prospect or better if you keep this up.

[Braves1976]

Save some runs for tomorrow boys, this one is over.

[thethe]

For all the player transactions we made during the offseason, perhaps the most important signing was that of Kevin Seitzer.

The offseason deserves an "A" because of how the WHOLE organization was rebuilt. From the players, to coaches all the way to the scouting/player development function.

Now just need to work on the manager.

[thethe]

Save some runs for tomorrow boys, this one is over.

But how will this team ever score runs this year!?!?!?!

[thethe]

I'd sell high on Maybin....don't expect him to stay healthy or play well. Plus we have Mallex......He's someone you could actually flip for a B prospect or better if you keep this up.

If he keeps this up (around 800 OPS) then I would want more considering his pedigree. Former top 10 prospect with top athletic ability.

[Russ2dollas]

Cb needs to play. Hart needs to tell FG that CB plays or FG goes. AJ can play some, but we need to know if CB is a long term piece. I'm really hopefull he is before we do something dumb like try and sign a FA catcher past 30.

[USMA76]

Can't believe how much I was sweating over this game about half an hour ago.

[Braves1976]

I'd sell high on Maybin....don't expect him to stay healthy or play well. Plus we have Mallex......He's someone you could actually flip for a B prospect or better if you keep this up.

Yea, I'd sell high on him for multiple reasons all things considered. But that shouldn't be taken as a shot at Maybin as I do like him. I was happy to get him back in the trade even if he was a throw-in thought of as sunk cost to the Padres.

[The Chosen One]

I'd like to keep Maybin around. He grew up a braves fan and I think Seitz could help him live up to some of his potential. we've heard a lot about how hard he's worked since he came over. If he walks in free agency let him but I don't want to resell him off. He's been a good piece for us.

[thethe]

I'd like to keep Maybin around. He grew up a braves fan and I think Seitz could help him live up to some of his potential. we've heard a lot about how hard he's worked since he came over. If he walks in free agency let him but I don't want to resell him off. He's been a good piece for us.

Agreed 100%.

If it finally clicks for him then maybe he extends at less than market value as well.

[Russ2dollas]

If he keeps this up (around 800 OPS) then I would want more considering his pedigree. Former top 10 prospect with top athletic ability.

or better I said....I'm not sure he'll keep this up. But if he plays like this then he's a very good player with a decent salary.

that said, we could also play him in LF, it's not like we have a great option in LF. Or we could keep him and keep Mallex's time down.

Hopefully we'll be in a position of strength. So we don't let him go unless someone meets our price.

[USMA76]

I'd like to keep Maybin around. He grew up a braves fan and I think Seitz could help him live up to some of his potential. we've heard a lot about how hard he's worked since he came over. If he walks in free agency let him but I don't want to resell him off. He's been a good piece for us.

Actually, so would I. The guy's one of the best athletes on the team with the tools to be an elite player. He wants to be a Brave and feels strongly about the progress he's making with our hitting coach. If he's honest about wanting to be a Brave, he might sign for less than market value over a longer term. It's certainly worth considering IMO. That said, he still has a lot to prove.

[dak]

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/be/500_USD_note%3B_series_of_1934%3B_obverse.jpg

[chop2chip]

Agreed 100%.

If it finally clicks for him then maybe he extends at less than market value as well.

The Braves have a club option for 9 million in 2017. We don't have to worry about Maybin for a long time.

[keithlaw]

I really like Jace.

Incredible that he was the 3rd or 4th piece in the deal.

Jace of On Base

[CrimsonCowboy]

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

[jsebe10]

Folks, don't look now but the starting rotation is starting to get going and the BLOWpen is settling in.

[bravesnumberone]

Finally Julio

[thethe]

Folks, don't look now but the starting rotation is starting to get going and the BLOWpen is settling in.

If Williams Perez can just not be a disaster (4.5 ERA) and Folty is decent then all of a sudden things could get interesting. This offense strings together hits and has tough AB's. LOVE IT!

[chop2chip]

Grilli/Johnson/Avilan/Cunnif/Masset isn't great, but it isn't horrible either. If Cahill continues to do well as the mop up guy, then the Braves may only need another lefty to complete the pen.

It really sucks that Mckirran got suspended.

[dak]

Nice night for Maybin. I've been pretty tough on some of his defensive mishaps this year, but that was some kind of throw he made to nail Parra at 2B tonight.

[The Chosen One]

Folks, don't look now but the starting rotation is starting to get going and the BLOWpen is settling in.

Legendary managerial season is unfolding as predicted.

[57Brave]

I truly don't understand the vitriol aimed at Fredi . He has milked this team along masterfully

[jsebe10]

Legendary managerial season is unfolding as predicted.

Lol

[thethe]

I truly don't understand the vitriol aimed at Fredi . He has milked this team along masterfully

He has done some positive things this year for sure but his overall body of work should not allow him to be the manager when this team is ready to compete.

[jsebe10]

If Williams Perez can just not be a disaster (4.5 ERA) and Folty is decent then all of a sudden things could get interesting. This offense strings together hits and has tough AB's. LOVE IT!

Agreed. I like perez's stuff and Folty of course is still learning. We get Woody, JT going consistently, look out but

[jsebe10]

I truly don't understand the vitriol aimed at Fredi . He has milked this team along masterfully

Things like burning your switch hitter who's swinging a very hot bat in the 7th is decisions that are head scratchers.

[thethe]

Man, remember what the temperature on this board was in January? Ooooof....

[Braves1976]

Things like burning your switch hitter who's swinging a very hot bat in the 7th is decisions that are head scratchers.

Thankfully we were facing a very bad Brewers team where such moves don't really effect anything. Also, Ciriaco was about to strikeout before that HBP IMO.

[The Chosen One]

Man, remember what the temperature on this board was in January? Ooooof....

Calm down friend. The Brew Crew are last in the central and the Fish are just as bad. Let's not pretend we're handily beating the big teams here. I'm happy we're not sucking bad but this offense is arguably just as jekyll and Hyde as last year's.

[Garmel]

Cahill's last 4 outings(5 innings) have been scoreless. Looks like McDowell's magic has struck again.

[dak]

I truly don't understand the vitriol aimed at Fredi . He has milked this team along masterfully

I definitely think some are too harsh on Fredi . . . i.e., blaming stuff on him that really isn't his fault. But I still feel like he's a replacement-level manager. He's got all of Cox's bad attributes and none of his good ones. I'd rather take a chance on someone else.

[Braves1976]

Calm down friend. The Brew Crew are last in the central and the Fish are just as bad. Let's not pretend we're handily beating the big teams here. I'm happy we're not sucking bad but this offense is arguably just as jekyll and Hyde as last year's.

Have the Fish won since changing managers? They are one of the few teams that continued a losing streak after firing their manager. I mean we usually see even bad teams get hot after firing the manager, Brewers did in fact for a few days IIRC.

[Braves1976]

I definitely think some are too harsh on Fredi . . . i.e., blaming stuff on him that really isn't his fault. But I still feel like he's a replacement-level manager. He's got all of Cox's bad attributes and none of his good ones. I'd rather take a chance on someone else.

Yep, plus he has some of his own bad attributes too. My biggest issue is I cannot trust him with a bullpen. We've given him some great bullpens and he has destroyed some great arms (none better than my boy Venters).

[thethe]

Calm down friend. The Brew Crew are last in the central and the Fish are just as bad. Let's not pretend we're handily beating the big teams here. I'm happy we're not sucking bad but this offense is arguably just as jekyll and Hyde as last year's.

Not even close to as Jekly and Hyde. Also, I'm not trying to say this team is great but all we heard is how the team was going to be the worst in baseball. Thats just not the case and I think we can all see that now.

[thethe]

Cahill's last 4 outings(5 innings) has been scoreless. Looks like McDowell's magic has struck again.

No reason to give up on a young pitcher who at one point was extremely successful. Glad te Braves aren't as foolish as some fans on this board.

[CrimsonCowboy]

:mad0182:

Jeff Passan @JeffPassan · 15m 15 minutes ago
Will Smith was remarkably stupid to wear whatever he wore on his arm like that. And maybe Braves pitchers are better cheaters than most.

[chop2chip]

It's been nice that the Braves have been able to get on this hot streak with Simmons and Freddie slumping.

[dak]

There has been a lot of whining on Twitter about Fredi calling Will Smith out for the foreign substance, but you HAVE to say something if you see him use it while pitching.

@mlbbowman
Fredi said he saw the substance immediately but didn't alert the umpires until Smith touched it during Peterson's at-bat

[CrimsonCowboy]

Mark Bowman ‏@mlbbowman 3m3 minutes ago
Fredi said he saw the substance immediately but didn't alert the umpires until Smith touched it during Peterson's at-bat

[CyYoung31]

Calm down friend. The Brew Crew are last in the central and the Fish are just as bad. Let's not pretend we're handily beating the big teams here. I'm happy we're not sucking bad but this offense is arguably just as jekyll and Hyde as last year's.

But we have Fredi, remember?

[cajunrevenge]

40 games in and the Braves are scoring over 1 more run per game than last year. The only question now is which was the best trade. I;m going to go with the Maybin for BJ trade. Maybin hitting .311/.408/.475 in the last 30 days.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Mark Bowman ‏@mlbbowman 42s42 seconds ago
Jim Joyce: "I touched it and immediately knew it was a foreign substance, unfortunately for (Will Smith) he has to be ejected."

[TomahawkCult]

:mad0182:

Jeff Passan @JeffPassan · 15m 15 minutes ago
Will Smith was remarkably stupid to wear whatever he wore on his arm like that. And maybe Braves pitchers are better cheaters than most.That's "proof or GTFO" territory, IMO.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Tom ‏@Haudricourt 1m1 minute ago
To say #Brewers are upset at Atlanta manager Fredi Gonzalez is putting it mildly.


Hey Brewers, quit your whining. Your guy got caught cheating. The Braves didn't force him to put the substance on his arm.

[zbhargrove]

As Chernoff said... "Braves have scored 174 runs this season thru 40 gms. They scored 128 runs thru 40 gms last year. Low HR total, low K total, scoring way up."

Man this offense is so much more terrible than last years....

[The Chosen One]

But we have Fredi, remember?

Of course. But he can't hit Homers for Markakis.

[thethe]

40 games in and the Braves are scoring over 1 more run per game than last year. The only question now is which was the best trade. I;m going to go with the Maybin for BJ trade. Maybin hitting .311/.408/.475 in the last 30 days.

Braves had to hit on 2 of their big trades to ensure that they could be reasonably competitive moving into their new ballpark. They literally hit on EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THEIR TRADES.

There is not one Brave fan that should ever have anything negative to say about this front office. They absolutely NAILED this offseason. A+++++++

[CrimsonCowboy]

That's "proof or GTFO" territory, IMO.

Yes it is. Just an idiotic tweet by Jeff Passan.

[USMA76]

Watching Craig Counsell's presser and I'm losing a ton of respect for the guy. Gems like 'that goes on with all pitchers including those in the Braves bullpen."

Put up or shut up, asshat.

[dak]

Brawl alert tomorrow. I hope Williams Perez gets a hold of Carlos Gomez.

@Haudricourt
To say #Brewers are upset at Atlanta manager Fredi Gonzalez is putting it mildly.

[The Chosen One]

Fredi sticks up for his team by calling out cheating, nobody here defends him. He doesn't get ejected and he doesn't care about his players lol.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Jerry Blevins? Really?

Jerry Blevins ‏@JerryBlevins_13 1h1 hour ago
If I were Craig Counsell I would have the umpires check every Atlanta pitcher for the rest of the year. #Truth

[USMA76]

Brawl alert tomorrow. I hope Williams Perez gets a hold of Carlos Gomez.

@Haudricourt
To say #Brewers are upset at Atlanta manager Fredi Gonzalez is putting it mildly.

Not surprising from a fan base that defends Ryan Braun. Screw 'em.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Kevin McAlpin ‏@KevinMcAlpin 57s57 seconds ago
Will Smith: "it was chilly and kind of windy. I had sunscreen rosin on my arm. Just forgot to wipe it off before I went out and pitched"

[thethe]

Fredi sticks up for his team by calling out cheating, nobody here defends him. He doesn't get ejected and he doesn't care about his players lol.

Everyone seems to be defending the decision to call out Smith.

Freddi is doing the right thing.

[weso1]

Where was this reaction when Pineda got caught last season?

[Julio3000]

Chipper Jones ‏@RealCJ10 58s59 seconds ago
I can't wait to hear this MIL pitchers explanation for why hes mad at Fredi. Should be classic!

Well, Chipper, it's like this. A couple of guys who were up to no good started making trouble in my neighborhood...

[dak]

Well, Chipper, it's like this. A couple of guys who were up to no good started making trouble in my neighborhood...

Umpires just don't understand.

[thethe]

Well, Chipper, it's like this. A couple of guys who were up to no good started making trouble in my neighborhood...

There may be more than one little fight tomorrow.

[WaitingFor2017]

Jerry Blevins? Really?

Jerry Blevins ‏@JerryBlevins_13 1h1 hour ago
If I were Craig Counsell I would have the umpires check every Atlanta pitcher for the rest of the year. #Truth


Why does a Met care?

Why is Smith getting so much sympathy for being an idiot for wearing it so visibly and being a classless loon as he was leaving?

[USMA76]

There may be more than one little fight tomorrow.

So they cheat and we're the bad guys...perfect.

[WaitingFor2017]

Kevin McAlpin ‏@KevinMcAlpin 57s57 seconds ago
Will Smith: "it was chilly and kind of windy. I had sunscreen rosin on my arm. Just forgot to wipe it off before I went out and pitched"

Then why wasn't he wearing long sleeves?

[CyYoung31]

Anyond want to bet that this goes back to the McCann and Gomez fiasco a couple years back?

[Garmel]

Jerry Blevins? Really?

Jerry Blevins ‏@JerryBlevins_13 1h1 hour ago
If I were Craig Counsell I would have the umpires check every Atlanta pitcher for the rest of the year. #Truth

This guy is an idiot. Are we supposed to ignore something that is right out in the open?

[CyYoung31]

Kevin McAlpin ‏@KevinMcAlpin 57s57 seconds ago
Will Smith: "it was chilly and kind of windy. I had sunscreen rosin on my arm. Just forgot to wipe it off before I went out and pitched"

Except that he was wiping it all inning.

[weso1]

Tom ‏@Haudricourt 1m1 minute ago
To say #Brewers are upset at Atlanta manager Fredi Gonzalez is putting it mildly.



http://replygif.net/i/347.gif

[Julio3000]

It's not like Fredi was harassing the guy. It was obvious. I don't get the criticism.

[jsebe10]

There may be more than one little fight tomorrow.

I would say AJ will take care of but I am remembered of Michael Barrett

[Garmel]

Kevin McAlpin ‏@KevinMcAlpin 57s57 seconds ago
Will Smith: "it was chilly and kind of windy. I had sunscreen rosin on my arm. Just forgot to wipe it off before I went out and pitched"

He's a liar. Fredi saw him put his hand on the substance during Peterson's at-bat.

[jsebe10]

Why does a Met care?

Why is Smith getting so much sympathy for being an idiot for wearing it so visibly and being a classless loon as he was leaving?

Isn't he out for the year?

[Deester11]

Isn't he out for the year? No worries. I replied to his tweet. I just told him that he's the epitome of class. As in classless.

[Julio3000]

Anyond want to bet that this goes back to the McCann and Gomez fiasco a couple years back?

^^^^

[CrimsonCowboy]

The criticism that Gonzalez and the Braves are taking makes no sense. Fredi saw something that was illegal. What was he supposed to do?

[chop2chip]

No worries. I replied to his tweet. I just told him that he's the epitome of class. As in classless.

Thank god. I was worried this type of behavior would go unchecked.

[Deester11]

Thank god. I was worried this type of behavior would go unchecked. I just think the Brewers are freaking cowards. Secondly, the way that Garza was acting too. Counsell condoned it just like a gutless putz! In any case, there are times when we take the high road and it's good. Every once in a while we need to sling mud. Bring Chipper back for the flare ups!

[chop2chip]

I understand the Brewers being pissed. Nobody likes a tattle tale, but Fredi telling the umps getting Miller tossed was a key moment in that game and obviously rattled the Brewers. It's a game and the Braves made the right moves in order to win the game.

[Deester11]

I understand the Brewers being pissed. Nobody likes a tattle tale, but Fredi telling the umps getting Miller tossed was a key moment in that game and obviously rattled the Brewers. It's a game and the Braves made the right moves in order to win the game.
How is it tattle tailing when the guy didn't even try to conceal it?! It gets no more blatant than that and to blame it on Fredi for telling?....that's some crybaby ish!

[Garmel]

Kevin McAlpin ‏@KevinMcAlpin 3m3 minutes ago

More Will Smith: "you want to be able to feel the ball, that's it. It's just grip"


Now he contradicts himself.

[smootness]

A lot of people in baseball think a pitcher using a substance just to improve grip is fine, while anything added to create additional movement is not. This is basically why some think it was ridiculous for the Braves to call it out.

I don't agree. To me, any substance should be illegal. Aiding your grip does help you throw with better precision and better spin. Pitchers don't need any help in this era.

[Millwood1Hitter]

Oh Nos somebody cheated and got caught.

Anybody but against the Braves and it's a national outcry, but if it's against the Braves whom have pointed in out it's a national outcry for being a tattle tale. I can't imagine if this was against the Red Sox or the NY teams or LA.

But we can get screwed in the wild card game and go him no big deal just the way it is deal with it.

Standing ovation from my point of view for Fredi tonight. Well done, sir, well done.

[The Chosen One]

Kimbrel had a decent amount of rosen on his hat, and he used to massage that ball a bunch before throwing it.

Never paid attention enough about Kimbrel though.

[Runnin]

.500 BABY!!!
http://rack.1.mshcdn.com/media/ZgkyMDEzLzA3LzA1LzBhL2V4Y2l0ZWRiYWJ5LjlhZWY3LmdpZg pwCXRodW1iCTEyMDB4OTYwMD4/f01f5d34/cc5/excited-baby.gif

[chop2chip]

Kimbrel had a decent amount of rosen on his hat, and he used to massage that ball a bunch before throwing it.

Never paid attention enough about Kimbrel though.

I remember the umps checking it in the past and it was deemed kosher.

[Dalyn]

Freeman said all the pitchers do it, and the hitters want them to so they don't get hit in the head. :happy0157: I guess Freeman is just returning the favor for all those times Fredi didn't support him vs the umpires.

[CyYoung31]

Freeman said all the pitchers do it, and the hitters want them to so they don't get hit in the head. :happy0157: I guess Freeman is just returning the favor for all those times Fredi didn't support him vs the umpires.

He also said the guy was a dumbass for making it so obvious.

[Dalyn]

He also said the guy was a dumbass for making it so obvious.

If everyone does it, everyone wants them to do it, and it doesn't help with movement, why not make it legal?

[UNCBlue012]

But Teheran doe. So good last night.

[striker42]

There's a difference between using and abusing. The agreement is so universal that it's okay to use the stuff to get a grip on the ball that there's a good argument for legalizing it for that. The problem becomes policing it. How do you prevent a wave of Gaylord Perrys? If baseball can figure out how to make the use of a grip substance equivalent to the use of a rosin bag then there's no reason to not legalize it.

That being said, Smith deserved what he got for sheer stupidity alone. The chorus you keep hearing is "everyone does it." If everyone does it then it must be pretty easy to get away with so you have to almost try to get caught. If you're doing it as obviously as Smith was last night, you don't have room to complain. The dude had it on the outside of his arm and he kept going to it for all the world to see.

If a notorious mobster's body shows up floating in the bay, maybe the police don't go the extraordinary lengths in the investigation. If a hit man kills the same mobster in a police station parking lot and then stands there shouting "I did it!" then you have to arrest the guy.

[sturg33]

Does anyone know what our mode is for run scoring? I understand we're averaging more, but we've had some big outputs. Curious what we're consistently scoring.

It's getting to the point where I'm thinking about starting to eat some crow. You can only deny results for so long and clearly the offense is doing much better than I expected. Having said all that, it's not because we got rid of Heyward/Upton/Gattis but moreso that we got rid of BJ/Uggla/bad CJ.

Still - can't argue with the results.

[thethe]

Does anyone know what our mode is for run scoring? I understand we're averaging more, but we've had some big outputs. Curious what we're consistently scoring.

It's getting to the point where I'm thinking about starting to eat some crow. You can only deny results for so long and clearly the offense is doing much better than I expected. Having said all that, it's not because we got rid of Heyward/Upton/Gattis but moreso that we got rid of BJ/Uggla/bad CJ.

Still - can't argue with the results.

Its definitely not because we got rid of Heyward/Upton/Gattis (even though Heyward/Gattis are not currently upgrades over what we have currently based on their performance this year). Overal though its a mentality that is being instilled in the hitters. The old sabermetric mantra of strikeouts don't matter has shown to be false at least in the aggregation that the Braves had in their lineup.

Also, the lineup is about ot get better once Peraza comes up. Not only do posters have to eat some crow for this season but about the future as well. Hart literally aced every single big deal he made this offseason. Braves are ready to compete in 2016 which is even earlier than most of us thought.

[sturg33]

Its definitely not because we got rid of Heyward/Upton/Gattis (even though Heyward/Gattis are not currently upgrades over what we have currently based on their performance this year). Overal though its a mentality that is being instilled in the hitters. The old sabermetric mantra of strikeouts don't matter has shown to be false at least in the aggregation that the Braves had in their lineup.

Also, the lineup is about ot get better once Peraza comes up. Not only do posters have to eat some crow for this season but about the future as well. Hart literally aced every single big deal he made this offseason. Braves are ready to compete in 2016 which is even earlier than most of us thought.

At the same time, the Astros are killing it while leading the league in striekouts. They also lead the league in Homers.

The problem with the Braves last year was we didn't hit any homers

[thethe]

Based on a quick glance Sturg it looks like the mode is 5 which we have scored a total of 7 times.

[sturg33]

Based on a quick glance Sturg it looks like the mode is 5 which we have scored a total of 7 times.

That's a good number

[thethe]

At the same time, the Astros are killing it while leading the league in striekouts. They also lead the league in Homers.

The problem with the Braves last year was we didn't hit any homers

Turner field is not a place you should design your team to hit homers IMO.

Astros have gotten tremendous bullpen pitching. Once Correa comes up they should be even better. I'm glad its working for them and Gattis hasn't even found a groove yet.

[50PoundHead]

There's a difference between using and abusing. The agreement is so universal that it's okay to use the stuff to get a grip on the ball that there's a good argument for legalizing it for that. The problem becomes policing it. How do you prevent a wave of Gaylord Perrys? If baseball can figure out how to make the use of a grip substance equivalent to the use of a rosin bag then there's no reason to not legalize it.

That being said, Smith deserved what he got for sheer stupidity alone. The chorus you keep hearing is "everyone does it." If everyone does it then it must be pretty easy to get away with so you have to almost try to get caught. If you're doing it as obviously as Smith was last night, you don't have room to complain. The dude had it on the outside of his arm and he kept going to it for all the world to see.

If a notorious mobster's body shows up floating in the bay, maybe the police don't go the extraordinary lengths in the investigation. If a hit man kills the same mobster in a police station parking lot and then stands there shouting "I did it!" then you have to arrest the guy.

I was wondering where you've been. Nice to see you.

If there's a Hall of Fame for cheating, here's my nomination:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TXLmh1dG5fY

[DirkPiggler]

Does anyone know what our mode is for run scoring? I understand we're averaging more, but we've had some big outputs. Curious what we're consistently scoring.

It's getting to the point where I'm thinking about starting to eat some crow. You can only deny results for so long and clearly the offense is doing much better than I expected. Having said all that, it's not because we got rid of Heyward/Upton/Gattis but moreso that we got rid of BJ/Uggla/bad CJ.

Still - can't argue with the results.

Well, OBP is up at 5 of the 8 positions over last year. One of the 5 that is down is Freeman, who at .363 is still pretty good. The only position where we have a significant OBP drop off from last year is LF.

[Heyward]

At the same time, the Astros are killing it while leading the league in striekouts. They also lead the league in Homers.

The problem with the Braves last year was we didn't hit any homers

They also have a ridiculous bullpen but provided they dont fall off, we'll see if that works in the playoffs when scoring is low.

We still need a couple power bats but the team looks ready to compete sooner than many thought.

[Heyward]

Well, OBP is up at 5 of the 8 positions over last year. One of the 5 that is down is Freeman, who at .363 is still pretty good. The only position where we have a significant OBP drop off from last year is LF.

Think we could contend for a playoff spot if we kept Justin but that trade could really pay off if Peterson keeps progressing, Mallex is legit, and Fried recovers well.

[50PoundHead]

At the same time, the Astros are killing it while leading the league in striekouts. They also lead the league in Homers.

The problem with the Braves last year was we didn't hit any homers

It's that added to the fact that guys like Chris Johnson didn't really hit at all and if you're a player with contact issues, you simply have to make your contact "count." Same went for Uggla (who is making contact this year, which I credit to a change in approach as much as recovery from his concussion issues). It's risk/reward. I don't mind J. Upton or Freeman striking out because the other side of the equation more than balances any propensity for striking out. it's when Chris Johnson and Melvin Upton, Jr., were being human industrial fans (with limited interest in walking as well) that problems start to show up. It was the overall team construction that did in the Braves last season. Hitting more HRs would have helped, but it would have only disguised some issues at the foundation.

[DirkPiggler]

It's that added to the fact that guys like Chris Johnson didn't really hit at all and if you're a player with contact issues, you simply have to make your contact "count." Same went for Uggla (who is making contact this year, which I credit to a change in approach as much as recovery from his concussion issues). It's risk/reward. I don't mind J. Upton or Freeman striking out because the other side of the equation more than balances any propensity for striking out. it's when Chris Johnson and Melvin Upton, Jr., were being human industrial fans (with limited interest in walking as well) that problems start to show up. It was the overall team construction that did in the Braves last season. Hitting more HRs would have helped, but it would have only disguised some issues at the foundation.

Well said. Everyone in the lineup has to contribute SOMETHING, whether it be power or OBP. Last year we had Gattis, Freeman, Good Upton, and Heyward contributing, and four black holes who gave nothing to the offense. This year, even though the good players aren't as good for the most part, most of the black holes have been filled with flawed players who can at least do something right.

[yeezus]

Added to what 50pound said (great post btw), the whole "strikeouts are cool" thing is fine I suppose, but I think when you face really good pitchers every day in the playoffs, the whiffs will really, really hurt, and your offense may go ice cold (like ours did in 2013). There were multiple reasons we lost vs. LA that post-season, but I had little confidence we could do the little things offensively to win. I think a team built like this year's is will be better able to do those little things to win a playoff series.

[yeezus]

four black holes.

sounds like my saturday night.

[Tapate50]

I can't believe this Smith stuff is overshadowing what Julio Teheran did last night. Can we just enjoy that please without getting into this illegal\legal BS? Thanks.


\HAWK'd

[thethe]

Added to what 50pound said (great post btw), the whole "strikeouts are cool" thing is fine I suppose, but I think when you face really good pitchers every day in the playoffs, the whiffs will really, really hurt, and your offense may go ice cold (like ours did in 2013). There were multiple reasons we lost vs. LA that post-season, but I had little confidence we could do the little things offensively to win. I think a team built like this year's is will be better able to do those little things to win a playoff series.

I absolutely believe that a team like the Braves this year would score more consistently against better pitching. Not a doubt in my mind.

Eff it...Lets call up Peraza and add to the pen.

[Braves1976]

It's that added to the fact that guys like Chris Johnson didn't really hit at all and if you're a player with contact issues, you simply have to make your contact "count." Same went for Uggla (who is making contact this year, which I credit to a change in approach as much as recovery from his concussion issues). It's risk/reward. I don't mind J. Upton or Freeman striking out because the other side of the equation more than balances any propensity for striking out. it's when Chris Johnson and Melvin Upton, Jr., were being human industrial fans (with limited interest in walking as well) that problems start to show up. It was the overall team construction that did in the Braves last season. Hitting more HRs would have helped, but it would have only disguised some issues at the foundation.

The bottom line is we had three black holes in the line-up last year, four earlier if you count Uggla's time with us before being released. This year we have a more balanced line-up without all the black holes, though a lot less power. Plus former black hole Simmons is now contributing more on offense to go along with his great defense. While CJ hasn't started as much when healthy and is now on the DL. So we've gotten more on offense and defense at third this year. Upton of course is gone and his replacement Maybin is contributing on offense too. I also like our bench a lot more.

If we still had a great bullpen we'd probably be a playoff team with good managing.

[UNCBlue012]

Let's be happy that 3 of Julio's last 4 outings have been one run or less.

[weso1]

I don't really buy into this idea that pitchers need to have sun tan lotion and rosin mixed together to make pitch. I'm trying to remember back in the day when I made pitch and I can't ever think of a time that the ball was so slippery that I could not make pitch. And I never ever had Rosin. Just dirt. Now, I'm not comparing myself to a MLB pitcher, but a baseball is a baseball. Rosin should be more than enough to keep pitchers from hitting guys. To me the reason they want it is so that they can make better pitch, not so that they can just make pitch without beaning every batter.

[mfree80]

Gotta comment here about the off-season threads where those who dared show any optimism were painted as completely ridiculous for even suggesting that this team might score any runs at all.

I really enjoy watching this team. With a runner in scoring position I actually have some confidence that they will find a way to get him home.

The rebuild is on track, and potentially even ahead of schedule.

[Orphan Black]

Maybin may be playing well enough to have his option picked up...isn't it only for 8 million?

[thethe]

Maybin may be playing well enough to have his option picked up...isn't it only for 8 million?

I find it hard to believe that it won't be picked up at this point.

[Heyward]

Maybin may be playing well enough to have his option picked up...isn't it only for 8 million?

It's not a club option, his club option isnt until 2017.

[cajunrevenge]

I hope Maybin is the real deal but looking back at his previous season stats he was worse than I thought. He has never hit double digit homers in any season, he has never hit more than 45 RBI, and has never finished a season with an OBP over .323. Gonna need more than 100 at bats to believe it.

[CyYoung31]

I find it hard to believe that it won't be picked up at this point.

It's May 2015.

Having said that, I really like Maybin and he's definitely a serious talent. He's not some dude we picked up off the scrap heap.

[Nerfherders]

It's pretty amazing - our run differential is almost exactly the same from a year ago, just forty runs higher on both sides.

[sturg33]

It's pretty amazing - our run differential is almost exactly the same from a year ago, just forty runs higher on both sides.

that's what everyone predicted

[stpeteirish]

I can't believe this Smith stuff is overshadowing what Julio Teheran did last night. Can we just enjoy that please without getting into this illegal\legal BS? Thanks.


\HAWK'd

He just got suspended for 8 games by MLB.