5/27/15: GDT - Atlanta Braves @ L.A. Dodgers (Uribe in the 5th spot)

[thethe]

Peterson, 2B
Maybin, CF
Freeman, 1B
Markakis, RF
Uribe, 3B
AJ, C
Gomes, LF
Simmons, SS
Wood, SP

[nsacpi]

Expecting a huge game from Jonny Gomes against Greinke. Love the way Fredi goes with the gut rather than the platoon splits data.

[Hawk]

Glad to see Uribe hitting the ground running.

[jpx7]

Glad to see Uribe hitting the ground running.

Well ... waddling at least.

[Hawk]

Well ... waddling at least.

Look! Uribe is doing wind-sprints in the outfield.

http://media1.giphy.com/media/CfdH0cYAj7BwQ/giphy.gif

[Garmel]

Juan is going to be huge for us tonight.

[Orphan Black]

Markakis hits his first homer tonight.

[jpx7]

Markakis hits his first homer tonight.

I predict he gets close, total-base-wise: 4-4 with four singles, an RBI, and a run scored.

[Julio3000]

I predict he gets close, total-base-wise: 4-4 with four singles, an RBI, and a run scored.

4-4 with four singles?

The famous Markakykle.

Markykle?

[Dalyn]

4-4 with four singles?

The famous Markakykle.

Markykle?

Boomkaki

[cajunrevenge]

I am going to have a hard time rooting for Uribe.

[CyYoung31]

Expecting a huge game from Jonny Gomes against Greinke. Love the way Fredi goes with the gut rather than the platoon splits data.

To be fair, if Kelly Johnson were available Gomes wouldn't be in there tonight.

[UNCBlue012]

Hmm...

#GBraves Game 2 vs. LHV:
Peraza CF
Castro SS
Garcia 3B
Kazmar 2B
Nieves C
Kleinknecht 1B
Jones LF
Benson RF
Marimon SP

[Hawk]

About damn time.

[Garmel]

Not a bad idea to have Peraza play a little CF. If he comes up later in the year he can play CF and move Maybin to LF.

[Dunit24]

IDK why im happy we got Uribe. IDK why im glad to see Gomes in the lineup again. BTW would yall risk Petersons development to place Uribe at 2B if CJ comes back strong and we are winning?

[Hawk]

BTW would yall risk Petersons development to place Uribe at 2B if CJ comes back strong and we are winning?

My gut said no, but upon reflection I think I'd do it if it got Johnson traded quicker.

[Braves1976]

My gut said no, but upon reflection I think I'd do it if it got Johnson traded quicker.

What makes y'all think Uribe can still play second base? He hasn't played it since 2011.

[NinersSBChamps]

The trade is pointless. Why have Uribe and Johnson on the roster. They are getting about 12 million this season combined and they won't play at the same time.

[Braves1976]

The trade is pointless. Why have Uribe and Johnson on the roster. They are getting about 12 million this season combined and they won't play at the same time.

The Braves would love to trade Johnson if they could find a taker and they'll likely trade Uribe too at the deadline if he improves his stock enough. Though they might keep Uribe should they find a taker for CJ first, doubtful IMO. Further, I am expecting Uribe will start vs most righties and CJ vs most lefties.

[DirkPiggler]

4-4 with four singles?

The famous Markakykle.

Markykle?

Single to left.
Single to center.
Single to right.
Infield single (extra credit for a bunt).

[NinersSBChamps]

The Braves would love to trade Johnson if they could find a taker and they'll likely trade Uribe too at the deadline if he improves his stock enough. Though they might keep Uribe should they find a taker for CJ first, doubtful IMO. Further, I am expecting Uribe will start vs most righties and CJ vs most lefties.

I guess that makes more sense then. I just don't like the idea of trading for players in hopes of trading them again.

[MadduxFanII]

Todd Cunningham, Fredi. Todd Cunningham. Not Jonny Gomes. Todd Cunningham.

[Julio3000]

My gut said no, but upon reflection I think I'd do it if it got Johnson traded quicker.

Uribe's gut says yes.

[jpx7]

Todd Cunningham, Fredi. Todd Cunningham. Not Jonny Gomes. Todd Cunningham.

Too many letters. :FrediWut:

[WaitingFor2017]

There's a reason Gomes has bounced from team to team since 2011.

[Julio3000]

Too many letters. :FrediWut:

But skip, it has "ham" in it.

/GLaird

[MadduxFanII]

There's a reason Gomes has bounced from team to team since 2011.

Charm and rugged good looks?

[sturg33]

I'd put Uribe in front of Markakis.

[jsebe10]

To be fair, if Kelly Johnson were available Gomes wouldn't be in there tonight.

So Cunningham isn't a good option?
Gomes fckn blows

[jsebe10]

There's a reason Gomes has bounced from team to team since 2011.

Bingo.

[Braves1976]

Good AB's by Peterson and Maybin to start.

[Russ2dollas]

1St at bat for braves is vs former team with bases loaded...TV movie stuff

[jpx7]

1St at bat for braves is vs former team with bases loaded...TV movie stuff

Except for the result.

[UNCBlue012]

Welp, trade sucks already!

[jimsnores]

Eric Gregg strikezone. (RIP)

[NinersSBChamps]

Lol this team

[WaitingFor2017]

Welp... The result of that inning at least means the Dodger bullpen can dominate this lineup sooner than we originally thought.

[UNCBlue012]

This strike zone is rough. Alex better get it as well!

Uribe already doesn't want help though, I see.

[jimsnores]

That inning looked like last year's Braves. (With help from the home plate ump....though that last strike might have been in the zone. No way he should have taken it, especially when he'd already established that anything close to the corner was close enough. The last strike to Freeman was the worst. Not even close.)

[UNCBlue012]

A lead off hit already? Come on Alex. Be smart.

[jsebe10]

And that's how you go after this line up. Don't tip toe around and hand your fckn curveballs

[jsebe10]

God please DFA him.

[WaitingFor2017]

I can't believe we all almost missed that amazing Jonny Gomes at-bat. It's a good thing we didn't get to see Cunningham face Greinke.

[WaitingFor2017]

Callaspo and Stults are gone. Can the team please rid themselves of Gomes, Cahill (unlikely due to salary), and EYJR before the team returns home on June 5?

[jpx7]

****.

[Braves1976]

Did y'all see this?:

@mlbbowman
Juan Uribe: "I didn't feel bad about the trade. I would have felt bad if they had traded me to a soccer team or a basketball team."

[Garmel]

Why is Fredi so damn determined to have Gomes face RHP? I don't get it.

[UNCBlue012]

So, Heyward is doing awful with the Cards and the fans are just all over him.

[Julio3000]

Where the hell was Markakis on that popup?

[Julio3000]

Did y'all see this?:

@mlbbowman
Juan Uribe: "I didn't feel bad about the trade. I would have felt bad if they had traded me to a soccer team or a basketball team."

That's pretty awesome.

[Braves1976]

Where the hell was Markakis on that popup?

White boy is slow.

[jpx7]

Where the hell was Markakis on that popup?

Uhm ... I think harried for years on end after he plundered the stronghold on the proud height of Troy?

[The Chosen One]

Uribe going to be Surhoff 4.0

Guy that doesn't want to be here. 2.0 being Melky of course. 3.0 being Heyward.

[zitothebrave]

Uribe going to be Surhoff 4.0

Guy that doesn't want to be here. 2.0 being Melky of course. 3.0 being Heyward.

No Jason just didn't want ot play baseball. Like Adam Dunn he's gonna retire at 29 to go pursue his real love. Not baseball.

[NinersSBChamps]

Uribe going to be Surhoff 4.0

Guy that doesn't want to be here. 2.0 being Melky of course. 3.0 being Heyward.

So who is 1.0?

[jpx7]

Uribe going to be Surhoff 4.0

Guy that doesn't want to be here. 2.0 being Melky of course. 3.0 being Heyward.

At least, unlike the other three, the crack cocaine kept Heyward svelte.

[Braves1976]

Maybin!

[sturg33]

Last 9 games the Braves have scored:

0
3
2
0
3
10
2
3
6

No homers in those 9 games. 2 nice games (one of which was aided by a flukey 7 run inning in Mil) surrounded by 7 duds. Averaging 3.2 runs in the 9 games. averaging 1.8 runs in the 7 duds.

Good thing baseball is going in this direction or I'd be worried our offense was in trouble


LOL and as I type this - Maybin goes yard

[zbhargrove]

Would be awesome if Maybin finally realized his potential here

[zbhargrove]

Last 9 games the Braves have scored:

0
3
2
0
3
10
2
3
6

No homers in those 9 games. 2 nice games (one of which was aided by a flukey 7 run inning in Mil) surrounded by 7 duds. Averaging 3.2 runs in the 9 games. averaging 1.8 runs in the 7 duds.

Good thing baseball is going in this direction or I'd be worried our offense was in trouble


LOL and as I type this - Maybin goes yard

Yet somehow we are still a better offense than last year by the numbers and you still refuse to address that...

[jsebe10]

So, Heyward is doing awful with the Cards and the fans are just all over him.

How

[sturg33]

I really think Maybin is a keeper. Unless someone overpays for him - I don't think we have someone in our system who is better - at east in the short term next two years

[jpx7]

Yet somehow we are still a better offense than last year by the numbers and you still refuse to address that...

By which numbers, out of curiosity?

[sturg33]

Yet somehow we are still a better offense than last year by the numbers and you still refuse to address that...


Yes we were doing really well this year when we were hitting home runs.

[Tapate50]

Zack Greinke looks like a dept store mannequin.

[NinersSBChamps]

Would be awesome if Maybin finally realized his potential here

Yeah I don't get it. He has all kinds of talent. Just needs to harness it and put it all together.

[jsebe10]

Zack Greinke looks like a dept store mannequin.

He looks like Sharon Stone

[NinersSBChamps]

Zack Greinke looks like a dept store mannequin.

Carlos Quentin hates mannequins.

[Garmel]

Gomes and AJ just looked awful there.

[jpx7]

He looks like Sharon Stone

And yet I hope he doesn't uncross his legs ...

[Tapate50]

Maybin can play all three spots with pretty good D, brings speed, and some pop. I'd keep him around as the ultimate 4th OF/super sub playing often when his contract is done.

[Tapate50]

He looks like Sharon Stone

But less manly

[WaitingFor2017]

WTF Uribe. You have Simba behind you; not old Jimmy Rollins.

[sturg33]

Uribe needs to learn who's playing to his left. This is not Jimmy Rollins anymore

[zbhargrove]

By which numbers, out of curiosity?

Runs... By quite a bit

[Tapate50]

Wood only topping out at 89-90 on the stadium gun ?

[Julio3000]

Uhm ... I think harried for years on end after he plundered the stronghold on the proud height of Troy?

He was definitely detained for a while on that ball, were there divine intervention or no.

I mean, Penelope finished her veil and married one of the suitors.

[yeezus]

By which numbers, out of curiosity?

wOBA, wRC+, AVG, OBP, SLG, less Ks, more BBs, + in base running instead of a minus, and our BABIP is even down this year.

[jpx7]

Runs... By quite a bit

So, not "by the numbers" but "by one number". I'm not saying runs-scored is unimportant: I'm just clarifying.


wOBA, wRC+, AVG, OBP, SLG, less Ks, more BBs, + in base running instead of a minus, and our BABIP is even down this year.

Edit: Ok: that's interesting, as it at least might carry some predictive weight going forward.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Zack Greinke looks like a dept store mannequin.

And his walk-up music is "Careless Whisper"

[yeezus]

So, not "by the numbers" but "by one number". I'm not saying runs-scored is unimportant: I'm just clarifying.

All of these numbers, too:

wOBA, wRC+, AVG, OBP, SLG, less Ks, more BBs, + in base running instead of a minus, and our BABIP is even down this year.

and we rank higher in them relative to the rest of the NL than we did last year.

[Tapate50]

A Gone is getting lucky on those tappers in front of the plate. That was a sac, and last was a RBI

[Garmel]

Another squiber scores a run.

[Prikichi]

So who is 1.0?

JD Drew

[CrimsonCowboy]

RBI on a fluke hit

[Julio3000]

Maybin has already trebled the WAR that Melvin provided over two seasons.

[zbhargrove]

So, not "by the numbers" but "by one number". I'm not saying runs-scored is unimportant: I'm just clarifying.

Pretty much all the numbers except home runs... Is that better? Yeezus just supplied quite and exhaustive list. And how is runs scored not the most important number when talking about how good an offense is? How is the number of runs scored not the most important stat? You know, considering the point of an offense is to score runs? Still struggling with Heywards absence?

[jsebe10]

RBI on a fluke hit

I'm telling you man, someone needs to get earholed. Plunk Turner or that gonzo looking goober in LF.

[UNCBlue012]

The dodgers are so lucky. They've scored about 9 runs against us in 3 days on luck. Lol

[Tapate50]

Maybin has already trebled the WAR that Melvin provided over two seasons.

Bass on what?

[jpx7]

He was definitely detained for a while on that ball, were there divine intervention or no.

I mean, Penelope finished her veil and married one of the suitors.

Watch for my new novel: Telemachy Extented.

[jpx7]

All of these numbers, too:

wOBA, wRC+, AVG, OBP, SLG, less Ks, more BBs, + in base running instead of a minus, and our BABIP is even down this year.

and we rank higher in them relative to the rest of the NL than we did last year.

As you'll see, post's already edited to reflect such.


Pretty much all the numbers except home runs... Is that better? Yeezus just supplied quite and exhaustive list. And how is runs scored not the most important number when talking about how good an offense is? How is the number of runs scored not the most important stat? You know, considering the point of an offense is to score runs?

It's pretty flukey this early in the season, especially considering it's simply one indicator. You said "numbers," but then in response to my earnest question you provided a single number. Multiple indices obviously reduce the chance of flukiness and give me more faith that the 2015 Braves offense can continue to outperform 2014.


Still struggling with Heywards absence?

Obviously, yes.

[yeezus]

Vin Scully is great, man.

[Garmel]

I dread every time the Dodgers come up to bat. Can't help but think what kind of fluke bull**** is going to go their way.

[cajunrevenge]

Maybin has already trebled the WAR that Melvin provided over two seasons.

Melvin had a positive WAR? :Gasp:

[weso1]

I wish we could trade Heyward every season. It's the best.

[jpx7]

Bass on what?

The Maybin is the bass and the bass is the treble.

[UNCBlue012]

Wow, Gomes.

[thewupk]

Pretty much all the numbers except home runs... Is that better? Yeezus just supplied quite and exhaustive list. And how is runs scored not the most important number when talking about how good an offense is? How is the number of runs scored not the most important stat? You know, considering the point of an offense is to score runs? Still struggling with Heywards absence?

For one runs can be park dependent. The Rockies are generally among the league leaders in runs scored year after year despite not having one of the best offenses year after year. That's just one example. Another is a team could get super lucky with RISP to inflate their run totals. That's not to say runs scored isn't important because that's a given. But there are better stats to use (mainly team wrc+) when comparing it to another teams offense.

[Julio3000]

The Maybin is the bass and the bass is the treble.

He's the treble without a pause.

[WaitingFor2017]

Dumb challenge. There's not enough evidence.

[jpx7]

I wish we could trade Heyward every season. It's the best.

Don't you have a storm to go chase?

[USMA76]

Another defensive gem by our newest third baseman whose first error has already cost us an unearned run. Don't get me wrong, I want Uribe to succeed now that he's on our team but he botched his first two chances tonight.

Oh, well, at least Greinke will now have to run the bases.

[zbhargrove]

For one runs can be park dependent. The Rockies are generally among the league leaders in runs scored year after year despite not having one of the best offenses year after year. That's just one example. Another is a team could get super lucky with RISP to inflate their run totals. That's not to say runs scored isn't important because that's a given. But there are better stats to use (mainly team wrc+) when comparing it to another teams offense.

Yes but I'm laying on my couch watching the game and too lazy to look up every single number since they have all been hashed out on the board numerous times already.

[jpx7]

Ne Plus Ultra allows Greinke to steal. Somebody owes somebody a case of Michelob.

[UNCBlue012]

He did run the bases...

[UNCBlue012]

Joc is really good.

[zbhargrove]

Don't you have a storm to go chase?

Sigh... I miss grad school when I could chase storms whenever I wanted pretty much.

[thewupk]

Yes but I'm laying on my couch watching the game and too lazy to look up every single number since they have all been hashed out on the board numerous times already.

Cool. It's clear this team is a better offense compared to last year right now. But that's mainly unexpected surprises like Maybin, AJ, and KJ at various times. Will that continue? Who knows.

[jpx7]

Not a lot of juice in those rosy fingers ...

[Braves1976]

These official scorers in LA stink, they gave Grienke a hit on that grounder to Uribe but Peterson had his infield hit in the 9th called an error even though it would've took a great throw to get him.

This is bull****, now the first error is a hit too so Wood is charged with that run and another hit against. I hate LA!

[jpx7]

Horse**** scoring change. That was an error on Uribe, and should not be an earned-run hung on Wood.

[UNCBlue012]

This umpire isn't calling anything a strike.

[jsebe10]

Swing the bat you fckn over achieving ginger Jew ridden bastard!!!

[Braves1976]

Peterson and Simmons, best DP combo in MLB! :)

Peterson's DRS is up to 7 coming into tonight. Just getting better and better.

[UNCBlue012]

I never get over how great Simmons and Peterson are with DPs.

[drewdat]

And his walk-up music is "Careless Whisper"


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GaoLU6zKaws

[UNCBlue012]

I can't even imagine how hard of a game this must be for Uribe... And it's showing.

[jpx7]

I can't even imagine how hard of a game this must be for Uribe... And it's showing.

But, to be fair, not as hard as a soccer or basketball game would be for him.

[UNCBlue012]

Freeman picked an absolutely awful time to suck at baseball. If there was ever one trip we needed him this year, this is it.

Like, he's nonexistent right now.

[jsebe10]

Freeman picked an absolutely awful time to suck at baseball. If there was ever one trip we needed him this year, this is it.

Like, he's nonexistent right now.

Kinda makes you wonder who he is...I don't think he can handle the spot light like the franchise wants him to be. I think he's just a complimentary player. The office may want to take a look into a big bat.

[cajunrevenge]

So when is a good time for Freeman to suck?

[sturg33]

So, Heyward is doing awful with the Cards and the fans are just all over him.

He hit a game tying HR in the 9th today, and they eventually won

[jpx7]

Wow: somebody's parents had some conflicted feelings about their adopted Jewish child.

[Julio3000]

But, to be fair, not as hard as a soccer or basketball game would be for him.

It could be worse, for sure. The Dodgers just flipped Callaspo to the LA Sparks for 3rd round draft pick in next year's WNBA draft. The Sparks assigned him on the taxi squad.

[UNCBlue012]

Great job, Alex!

[jpx7]

It could be worse, for sure. The Dodgers just flipped Callaspo to the LA Sparks for 3rd round draft pick in next year's WNBA draft. The Sparks assigned him on the taxi squad.

And you don't even know what the Dodgers got from the Nashville Predators for Juan Jaime ...

[Braves1976]

Great job by Wood, should be no earned runs tonight if not for total bull****.

[Garmel]

Wood was really hitting the spot tonight.

[UNCBlue012]

He hit a game tying HR in the 9th today, and they eventually won yeah, I saw that. Happy to see it happen! Fans were lighting him up on Twitter... Then changed their minds. Check it out, it's insane. I thought we were bad... Lol

[jsebe10]

So when is a good time for Freeman to suck?

Never.

[Julio3000]

yeah, I saw that. Happy to see it happen! Fans were lighting him up on Twitter... Then changed their minds. Check it out, it's insane. I thought we were bad... Lol

We're pretty bad.

[Fredi Gonzalez]

If we get the lead I am bringing in David Carpenter. They don't have Uribe to bail them out anymore.

[UNCBlue012]

Beautiful, Simba.

[WaitingFor2017]

If you're going to bunt, you may as well bring Teheran to bunt as a pinch hitter or leave Wood in to do it himself before replacing him in the bottom of the 8th. Why waste a solid hitter and fielder like Todd to bunt? So dumb.

[Braves1976]

If we get the lead I am bringing in David Carpenter. They don't have Uribe to bail them out anymore.

Umm, if not for him this game is 1-0 Braves or better if you count his striking out in the first with bases loaded and one out. I'd say he's bailed them out in a different way so far.

[UNCBlue012]

So... Why isn't Cunningham starting? Fredi sucks.

[Braves1976]

So... Why isn't Cunningham starting? Fredi sucks.

Fredi likes to see Gomes look bad vs righties?

[UNCBlue012]

Good hustle, Jace!

[jpx7]

Good hustle, Jace!

Shouldn't have whiff-bunted at strike-two(/ball-four), though.

[CyYoung31]

So Cunningham isn't a good option?
Gomes fckn blows

Not that great, albeit probably better than Gomes vs a righty.

[UNCBlue012]

Really... Really? We can't get a run in a situation as easy as that?

[jpx7]

Ugh. They're going to squander this, aren't they?

[CyYoung31]

Damn, thought Maybin hit that well enough.

[CyYoung31]

Ugh. They're going to squander this, aren't they?

It's the Braves Way.

[USMA76]

Really... Really? We can't get a run in a situation as easy as that?

Nope because we always [defecate] all over ourselves whenever we play the Dodgers.

[UNCBlue012]

WP!

[CrimsonCowboy]

That'll work

[Garmel]

We'll take it!

[jpx7]

Nope because we always [defecate] all over ourselves whenever we play the Dodgers.

Now who's [defecating] on whom?

[The Chosen One]

WOOOO

[USMA76]

WP!

Wow, your broadcast is a good 30 seconds ahead of mine.

[The Chosen One]

At least we got run in before Markakis came to bat.

[jpx7]

This would be a hilarious moment for the first Boomkaki.

[CyYoung31]

Some Mukaki Power would be nice right here.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Mark Bowman ‏@mlbbowman 18s19 seconds ago
Instead of pitching around Freddie, it looked like Liberatore opted to throw over him.

[USMA76]

Now who's [defecating] on whom?

Nice to see them screw up but we'll see how this turns out.

We've still lost seven of the last eight to these guys which just bugs me.

[UNCBlue012]

MARKAKIS!

[The Chosen One]

At least we got run in before Markakis came to bat.
:Bowman:

[CrimsonCowboy]

Nice!

[CyYoung31]

Some Mukaki Power would be nice right here.

THERE IT IS!!!

[The Chosen One]

Markakis with a little Boomkaki tease... "almost had ya, didn't I?" :FrediConfident:

[jpx7]

This would be a hilarious moment for the first Boomkaki.

Well, looks like he still only has that tripping-over-himself-out-of-the-box,-duck-snort-down-the-line power you're always hearing about.

[The Chosen One]

Dodgers are silly. If they'd just pitch to Uribe, they know he'd just lay down for them.

[UNCBlue012]

AJ is awful.

[CyYoung31]

That 8th inning was liberating.

[The Chosen One]

The Uribe Effect is in full force now for our team.

We're going to rack up 2 runs every 8th inning now when we're behind or tied.

[jpx7]

Dodgers are silly. If they'd just pitch to Uribe, they know he'd just lay down for them.

http://i.imgur.com/9198r9n.jpg

[cajunrevenge]

There's no I in Uribe.

[chop2chip]

Nick is a professional hitter.

[The Chosen One]

There's no I in Uribe.

Juan Ja-I-Me

[jpx7]

The way he's going, the Braves may net two or three pitchers on TJS convalescence for Jim Johnson.

[chop2chip]

I wouldn't trade Jim Johnson for Carlos Correa.

[cajunrevenge]

I didn't like signing Jim Johnson but he is going to bring back a solid return if we trade him. A solid lefty catching prospect at AA or higher would be perfect.

[The Chosen One]

The way he's going, the Braves may net two or three pitchers on TJS convalescence for Jim Johnson.

Braves are literally taking this "We Can Rebuild Him" thing into the team philosophy the next three years.

[USMA76]

Can we please take Gomes out of the lineup--"veteran leadership" be damned.

[CyYoung31]

I hope Fredi is watching this (regarding Gomes).

[UNCBlue012]

Cunningham > Gomes.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Vin Scully ‏@VinScullyTweet 10m10 minutes ago
"Well one thing about Atlanta, they're leading the league in Johnsons." #VinScully #Braves #Dodgers

[jpx7]

I didn't like signing Jim Johnson but he is going to bring back a solid return if we trade him. A solid lefty catching prospect at AA or higher would be perfect.

It better be when we trade him.

[The Chosen One]

:FrediPuzzled:

[UNCBlue012]

Not this crap again.

[CrimsonCowboy]

How is that kid not playing every day for the Dodgers?

[jpx7]

:FrediPuzzled:

Can we please get one with Dr Fredi wearing the reading-glasses?

[The Chosen One]

Can we please get one with Dr Fredi wearing the reading-glasses?

Paging Dalyn

[UNCBlue012]

What an idiot pitch, Grilli. Jeez.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Oh boy

[The Chosen One]

Gomes out in LF for... defensive purposes?

[CyYoung31]

****.

[Garmel]

Please tell me this isn't going to happen.

[jpx7]

Should we bring in Kimbrel yet? :HeywardWut:

[UNCBlue012]

Callaspo on deck. Hahaa could be fitting.

[cajunrevenge]

Oh crap, a light hitting catcher. I've seen this move before.

[NinersSBChamps]

Please please let Callapso hit a walk off.

[USMA76]

Not this crap again.

[CyYoung31]

Gomes out in LF for... defensive purposes?

In case they tie it up. Fredi wants his bat in the lineup for extras.

[UNCBlue012]

Wow. Uribe about screwed that up,

[jpx7]

Looks like the cast of Entourage is mean-mugging behind home-plate. That must be distracting Grilli.

[The Chosen One]

LOL Uribe...

I'd forgotten you'd caught the last out in the 2005 WS.

[NinersSBChamps]

Guarantee Urine is throwing this game.

[CyYoung31]

Baseball is so apropos isn't it?

[The Chosen One]

Callapso let's see how much you loved your teammates and Atlanta.

[USMA76]

Somewhat surprised Mattingly isn't challenging the call on the force play at second...way too close for comfort.

[The Chosen One]

You know Grilli... you keep throwing that fastball... it's 1-2 count. Mix it up.

[UNCBlue012]

WHERE WAS THAT

[jpx7]

Seriously: ****ing Elmer this ump.

[Five]

Ump blows.

[UNCBlue012]

Callaspo really did love Atlanta! Man, we needed that.

[CrimsonCowboy]

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

[The Chosen One]

LOLOLOLOLOL.

[USMA76]

Callaspo flies out on a 2-3 pitch.

[CyYoung31]

WHERE WAS THAT

AJ.

[jpx7]

Anybody else think Paul Byrd qua announcer looks/sounds like a Nuke LaLoosh that never made the Show.

[Carp]

I really think Maybin is a keeper. Unless someone overpays for him - I don't think we have someone in our system who is better - at east in the short term next two years

Maybin alone may end up making the Kimbrell trade a success for us, regardless of what the other prospects we got in return end up doing.

[thethe]

wOBA, wRC+, AVG, OBP, SLG, less Ks, more BBs, + in base running instead of a minus, and our BABIP is even down this year.

Lol...so just slightly. You can tell some posters are just waiting and HOPING that the offense starts to struggle so they can say "I told you so!".

[thethe]

I'd keep Maybin and play him in RF. His arm can play there.

[cajunrevenge]

I'd keep Maybin and play him in RF. His arm can play there.

I say we do this and just call him Heyward. No one will know the difference.

[TURBO]

I say we do this and just call him Heyward. No one will know the difference.

http://media.giphy.com/media/TziYd1ClxHmiQ/giphy.gif

[Runnin]

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

[Russ2dollas]

BR has Maybin at the same WAR he had all last year with Pads.

They also have him as a negative defender........does that make sense to anyone? Is he a bad defender?

I wonder how much his offensive value would dip if he was full time in RF or LF.

[thethe]

BR has Maybin at the same WAR he had all last year with Pads.

They also have him as a negative defender........does that make sense to anyone? Is he a bad defender?

I wonder how much his offensive value would dip if he was full time in RF or LF.

I haven't seen a particlary good CF thus far. We could upgrade at that position defensively. I wonder what his defensive value would be in RF since it's a less demanding position. I think as long as Maybin stays healthy he will improve at the plate.

[yeezus]

Cool. It's clear this team is a better offense compared to last year right now. But that's mainly unexpected surprises like Maybin, AJ, and KJ at various times. Will that continue? Who knows.

Right, which happens to every team, every year. Guys always come out of no where and produce.

[thethe]

Right, which happens to every team, every year. Guys always come out of no where and produce.

People just keep on trying to qualify what is being done so far this year. It's amusing.

[nsacpi]

We're doing very well in pinch hitting and hitting with RISP this year. We did very poorly in both last year. That's been a big change. I think it is a perfectly valid exercise to try to look at things from various angles to see what is likely to be sustained and what is not. Sometimes guys sustain a hot streak much longer than expected. For example, CJ's BABIP numbers stayed exceptionally high for all of 2013. Maybe we will continue to do well in certain categories for all of 2015. There are always a few performances each year that are several sigma out into the tail of their probability distribution. In analyzing how a team is likely to do going forward, you don't want to assume that continues.

[yeezus]

We're doing very well in pinch hitting and hitting with RISP this year. We did very poorly in both last year. That's been a big change. I think it is a perfectly valid exercise to try to look at things from various angles to see what is likely to be sustained and what is not. Sometimes guys sustain a hot streak much longer than expected. For example, CJ's BABIP numbers stayed exceptionally high for all of 2013. Maybe we will continue to do well in certain categories for all of 2015. There are always a few performances each year that are several sigma out into the tail of their probability distribution. In analyzing how a team is likely to do going forward, you don't want to assume that continues.

No one is assuming it continues. But the stats show we are better this year, and saying, "yeah, BUT...." is more assuming it won't continue, which is also silly. Our approach at the plate has improved our hitting with RISP IMO. We're walking more and K-ing less, both fairly significantly, which is never ever bad. Our approach is undoubtedly better. That will usually lead to better numbers.

[sturg33]

Lol...so just slightly. You can tell some posters are just waiting and HOPING that the offense starts to struggle so they can say "I told you so!".

While I'm surprised we've done as well as we have, it's been explained 1,000 times why. Pure overachievement from veterans that likely won't continue.

If our goal is to be better than last year's offense - we're not setting the bar too high. Keep in mind last year featured BJ Upton and Dan Uggla - the two worst players in the league, to go along with a horrifying Chris Johnson and Andrelton Simmons.

Replacing them with merely competent hitters has gone a long way.

[yeezus]

While I'm surprised we've done as well as we have, it's been explained 1,000 times why. Pure overachievement from veterans that likely won't continue.

If our goal is to be better than last year's offense - we're not setting the bar too high. Keep in mind last year featured BJ Upton and Dan Uggla - the two worst players in the league, to go along with a horrifying Chris Johnson and Andrelton Simmons.

Replacing them with merely competent hitters has gone a long way.

Also not striking out constantly with RISP.
That's been nice, too.
Guys overachieve every. single. year. AJ has crashed down. KJ has been out. Maybin is simply hitting well (which he has done before). Honestly, who else? Our approach at the plate is undoubtedly better. Why do we refuse to acknowledge this?

And no one said the "goal" was to be better than last year. Some are merely pointing out that despite the radical change and the whining and getting rid of our "super stars," our offense is performing better so far.

[thethe]

Also not striking out constantly with RISP.
That's been nice, too.
Guys overachieve every. single. year. AJ has crashed down. KJ has been out. Maybin is simply hitting well (which he has done before). Honestly, who else? Our approach at the plate is undoubtedly better. Why do we refuse to acknowledge this?

I dont get it.

[gilesfan]

Maybin alone may end up making the Kimbrell trade a success for us, regardless of what the other prospects we got in return end up doing.

This cant be. You talked about how terrible Maybin was.

[sturg33]

Also not striking out constantly with RISP.
That's been nice, too.
Guys overachieve every. single. year. AJ has crashed down. KJ has been out. Maybin is simply hitting well (which he has done before). Honestly, who else? Our approach at the plate is undoubtedly better. Why do we refuse to acknowledge this?

And no one said the "goal" was to be better than last year. Some are merely pointing out that despite the radical change and the whining and getting rid of our "super stars," our offense is performing better so far.

Certainly not striking out with RISP is helping a lot.

AJ has crashed back. KJ is out. And the offense is starting to really struggle.

Why is this hard to acknoowledge?

I do think Maybin's performance is sustainable.

Again - replacing BJ with Maybin and Uggla with Jace helps a lot.

KJ was giving us "Justin-like" production, which I don't think anyone believe will continue (and it hasn't). But I guess I'm a hater for holding that view.

AJ was giving us all-star level production, which I don't think anyone believes will continue (and it hasn't). But I guess I'm a hater for holding that view.

Simmons was giving us top 5 SS production, which I don't think anyone believes will continue (and it hasn't). But I guess I'm a hater for holding that view.

The approach is better, FOR SURE. But we need to hit some homers every now and then and we simply don't have the hitters to do it.

[gilesfan]

So far, the Braves are hitting .249/.315/.364 with 8.3% walk rate and 17.9% k rate. We are 24th in wRC+

Last year, the Braves hit .241/.305/.360 with 7.8% walk rate and 22.6% k rate. We were 26th in wRC+


We are essentially equal to last year....a slight tick ahead. The difference in runs scored is due to cluster luck, which isn't sustainable long term so we can just enjoy it while it last. It's not like players have a super power ability to "turn the lights on" when there are runners in scoring position.

[Tapate50]

Certainly not striking out with RISP is helping a lot.

AJ has crashed back. KJ is out. And the offense is starting to really struggle.

Why is this hard to acknoowledge?

I do think Maybin's performance is sustainable.

Again - replacing BJ with Maybin and Uggla with Jace helps a lot.

KJ was giving us "Justin-like" production, which I don't think anyone believe will continue (and it hasn't). But I guess I'm a hater for holding that view.

AJ was giving us all-star level production, which I don't think anyone believes will continue (and it hasn't). But I guess I'm a hater for holding that view.

Simmons was giving us top 5 SS production, which I don't think anyone believes will continue (and it hasn't). But I guess I'm a hater for holding that view.

The approach is better, FOR SURE. But we need to hit some homers every now and then and we simply don't have the hitters to do it.

Stop being so defensive. Baseball is a funny sport. Relax.

[yeezus]

Certainly not striking out with RISP is helping a lot.

AJ has crashed back. KJ is out. And the offense is starting to really struggle.

Why is this hard to acknoowledge?

I do think Maybin's performance is sustainable.

Again - replacing BJ with Maybin and Uggla with Jace helps a lot.

KJ was giving us "Justin-like" production, which I don't think anyone believe will continue (and it hasn't). But I guess I'm a hater for holding that view.

AJ was giving us all-star level production, which I don't think anyone believes will continue (and it hasn't). But I guess I'm a hater for holding that view.

Simmons was giving us top 5 SS production, which I don't think anyone believes will continue (and it hasn't). But I guess I'm a hater for holding that view.

The approach is better, FOR SURE. But we need to hit some homers every now and then and we simply don't have the hitters to do it.

Every offense goes up and down. We're not often going to go 10 games without a homer. No team does that often. What was our record in those 10 games? And even with the recent struggles, we're better across the board than last year. Simmons hitting to a ~.700 OPS is extremely sustainable; I'd say it's possible he's due for some more hits. Same with Freeman - he's been struggling of late. He can carry us when he's hot. KJ was not really giving us JUP production, that's some hyperbole. Maybe power-wise, but he's playing PT and always had some decent power.

Our approach is the biggest difference; getting rid of Uggla and BJ coincide with that.

[gilesfan]

Certainly not striking out with RISP is helping a lot.

AJ has crashed back. KJ is out. And the offense is starting to really struggle.

Why is this hard to acknoowledge?

I do think Maybin's performance is sustainable.

Again - replacing BJ with Maybin and Uggla with Jace helps a lot.

KJ was giving us "Justin-like" production, which I don't think anyone believe will continue (and it hasn't). But I guess I'm a hater for holding that view.

AJ was giving us all-star level production, which I don't think anyone believes will continue (and it hasn't). But I guess I'm a hater for holding that view.

Simmons was giving us top 5 SS production, which I don't think anyone believes will continue (and it hasn't). But I guess I'm a hater for holding that view.

The approach is better, FOR SURE. But we need to hit some homers every now and then and we simply don't have the hitters to do it.


Not having automatic outs helps for sure.

Right now:

OPS+

AJ 98
Freeman 126
Peterson 75
Simmons 91
Callaspo 52 (gone)
Gomes 67
Maybin 118
Markakis 114


We have 3 hitters in the lineup that are above league average. I think Maybin can still around that number and Markakis can at least stay close to or above 100. A big bat at 3B or LF would help out tremendously.....we certainly need more power.

[yeezus]

It's not like players have a super power ability to "turn the lights on" when there are runners in scoring position.

I hate when people say this. We sucked with RISP last year because our approach was terrible. It's better this year, and you can't really deny that. Putting the ball in play with RISP is better than striking out. I <3 strikeouts tho!!!

[gilesfan]

Alex Wood is a stud. By far our best pitcher, imo. Lock him up.

[gilesfan]

I hate when people say this. We sucked with RISP last year because our approach was terrible. It's better this year, and you can't really deny that. Putting the ball in play with RISP is better than striking out. I <3 strikeouts tho!!!


You hate when people tell the truth?

Putting the ball in play with runners in scoring position does not automatically make you a better hitter with RISP. It ignores double plays, extra base hits, etc.

[sturg33]

Stop being so defensive. Baseball is a funny sport. Relax.

Who's defensive? I'm respectfully making my point.

[yeezus]

You hate when people tell the truth?

Putting the ball in play with runners in scoring position does not automatically make you a better hitter with RISP. It ignores double plays, extra base hits, etc.

Is what you said a certifiable fact? It's your own personal twist on what's happening, not a fact. No, I don't believe "the lights go on" with RISP. We were terrible with it last year. Our approach this year is, IMO, making the number better. I won't say it's a fact, but it's an opinion with stats to support it.

[Tapate50]

Alex Wood is a stud. By far our best pitcher, imo. Lock him up.

With no other LHP options, I agree.

I was a little worried about the velo decrease last night. But he is coming off a stomach virus. Usually takes a week or two to get back up to full strength.

[Tapate50]

Who's defensive? I'm respectfully making my point.

Just sayin dude. Freakin relax already. Gah. :FrediGreen:

[sturg33]

Every offense goes up and down. We're not often going to go 10 games without a homer. No team does that often. What was our record in those 10 games? And even with the recent struggles, we're better across the board than last year. Simmons hitting to a ~.700 OPS is extremely sustainable; I'd say it's possible he's due for some more hits. Same with Freeman - he's been struggling of late. He can carry us when he's hot. KJ was not really giving us JUP production, that's some hyperbole. Maybe power-wise, but he's playing PT and always had some decent power.

Our approach is the biggest difference; getting rid of Uggla and BJ coincide with that.

LOL.... every offense goes up and down. The majority of our run production was coming when these guys were significantly over performing their career stats. Since you for some reason believe that's likely to continue - have at it.

[gilesfan]

Is what you said a certifiable fact? It's your own personal twist on what's happening, not a fact. No, I don't believe "the lights go on" with RISP. We were terrible with it last year. Our approach this year is, IMO, making the number better. I won't say it's a fact, but it's an opinion with stats to support it.

Yes, do some research on statistics.

[thethe]

Braves offense being inconsistent has coincided with Freeman struggling. that will not continue.

[sturg33]

The Braves are hitting .249 overall, and .289 with RISP.

Well, damn. Why don't they just pretend there's always RISP?

[thethe]

The Braves are hitting .249 overall, and .289 with RISP.

Well, damn. Why don't they just pretend there's always RISP?

Because the game is different with runners on. For one thing the pitcher is delivering from the stretch.

[yeezus]

Yes, do some research on statistics.

I know plenty about stats.
What you said is not even close to a fact. Maybe if you said "gilesfact" I'd agree. But not a real fact. Do you think our approach isn't improving our RISP numbers?

[yeezus]

Because the game is different with runners on. For one thing the pitcher is delivering from the stretch.

And worrying about the runner stealing.
We have a better OBP and have had better base running (despite losing all-time great base-runner Jason Heyward). These also make impacts.

[gilesfan]

Because the game is different with runners on. For one thing the pitcher is delivering from the stretch.

I had to explain to my coworkers why I laughed out loud there.