8-27-13 GDT: Indians at Braves

[tvsportscaster]

Braves
Jordan Schafer CF
Justin Upton RF
Freddie Freeman 1B
Chris Johnson 3B
Brian McCann C
Joey Terdoslavich LF
Andrelton Simmons SS
Elliot Johnson 2B
Alex Wood P

[ramadon101]

Just get the Lesser Johnson (tm) out and sub Uggla once he's ready and I'd roll with this lineup.

[stpeteirish]

I'm OK with Terdo over Gattis and BJ at this point.

[BlackwaterPark]

I want Gattis playing damnit.

Oh BTW, I am a huge Michael Brantley fan, so will be rooting for him this series :)

[tvsportscaster]

Just get the Lesser Johnson (tm) out and sub Uggla once he's ready and I'd roll with this lineup.

You will get your wish tomorrow. Uggla will be back

[Dalyn]

I'm OK with Terdo over Gattis and BJ at this point.

I would rather BJ play over Schafer (with this kind of lead in the division).

[benchguy]

think everyone knows that, u say it in every thread..



I would rather BJ play over Schafer (with this kind of lead in the division).

[MadduxFanII]

I HAVE NO COMPLAINTS WITH THIS LINEUP AND FEEL IT IS AN ACCEPTABLE ALLOCATION OF AVAILABLE RESOURCES!

[Dalyn]

think everyone knows that, u say it in every thread..

And? Schafer sucks. BJ is making a ton of money. It needs to be said whenever someone advocates playing Schafer over BJ.

[gilesfan]

And? Schafer sucks.

And BJ sucks.

[Dalyn]

And BJ sucks.

He certainly does right now. So the difference is potential and paycheck. BJ has the 'advantage' in both categories.

[gilesfan]

He certainly does right now. So the difference is potential and paycheck. BJ has the 'advantage' in both categories.

Schafer is the better player right now and BJ has shown no indication of any improvement. Just because he makes money and looked good 5 years ago doesn't mean he should be in the lineup while hitting .200. Sorry, .182.

[bravesnumberone]

Right or wrong, I think Schafer bought himself some more starts against righties with those two hits the other day. BJ needs to start performing in the starts he does get.

[gilesfan]

But, I understand people still hold out hope for him. I was told that he was a potential MVP candidate before the year started.

[Enscheff]

The Braves are going to win the division whether BJ or Schafer are in CF. The Braves are going to be paying BJ $15M per year whether he is in the starting lineup or not, so he may as well get some ABs on the off chance he snaps out of it. He certainly won't get better while sitting on the bench.

I would rather have him trying to figure it out in these relatively meaningless games than the beginning of next year when everyone in the division starts over tied for 1st place.

[bravesnumberone]

I don't disagree, but the Braves are also trying to hold onto the best record in the league. BJ is doing nothing to help us win.

[Dalyn]

Schafer is the better player right now and BJ has shown no indication of any improvement. Just because he makes money and looked good 5 years ago doesn't mean he should be in the lineup while hitting .200. Sorry, .182.

Last 30 has BJ with an .085 OPS 'advantage,' so I don't agree that Schafer is better right now. He has been horrendous since coming off the DL (and was horrendous throughout his career, unlike BJ).

[bravesnumberone]

Last 30 has BJ with an .085 OPS 'advantage,' so I don't agree that Schafer is better right now. He has been horrendous since coming off the DL (and was horrendous throughout his career, unlike BJ).

And he got that off what? Those one or two games when he managed four or five hits? Maybe BJ needs to be playing, but this is far down the list of dumb **** Fredi has pulled this year.

[gilesfan]

Last 30 has BJ with an .085 OPS 'advantage,' so I don't agree that Schafer is better right now. He has been horrendous since coming off the DL (and was horrendous throughout his career, unlike BJ).


And BJ has a 0.139 OPS over the last 2 weeks. or .167 over the past week if you want to play with samples.

BJ hitting in 2008 really doesn't mean anything, do it?

[tvsportscaster]

Last 30 has BJ with an .085 OPS 'advantage,' so I don't agree that Schafer is better right now. He has been horrendous since coming off the DL (and was horrendous throughout his career, unlike BJ).

It's not based on a career, it's based on who's playing better right now, and besides it's not Schafer getting the nod over BJ, it's Joey T.

[Dalyn]

And BJ has a 0.139 OPS over the last 2 weeks. or .167 over the past week if you want to play with samples.

BJ hitting in 2008 really doesn't mean anything, do it?

Not to you. But even his 'bad years' since have been leagues beyond what Schafer is capable of.

[nsacpi]

The Braves are going to win the division whether BJ or Schafer are in CF. The Braves are going to be paying BJ $15M per year whether he is in the starting lineup or not, so he may as well get some ABs on the off chance he snaps out of it. He certainly won't get better while sitting on the bench.

I would rather have him trying to figure it out in these relatively meaningless games than the beginning of next year when everyone in the division starts over tied for 1st place.

I'm pretty sure BJ and Schafer will both get plenty of games the rest of the season. I think you have to play both and keep them both sharp going into the post-season. Keep an open mind as to which one will be in better form once we hit playoffs.

[gilesfan]

Not to you. But even his 'bad years' since have been leagues beyond what Schafer is capable of.


I would venture to guess Schafer could put up a .300 OBP or higher (BJ .298 last year, .263 this year). What indication is there that BJ could even replicate his poor last season? Have you seen his swing?

[Dalyn]

I would venture to guess Schafer could put up a .300 OBP or higher (BJ .298 last year, .263 this year). What indication is there that BJ could even replicate his poor last season? Have you seen his swing?

So we are going to determine who is better based off .OBP? Schafer will never have a season as good as Upton's '12, which you called a 'poor' season.

[gilesfan]

So we are going to determine who is better based off .OBP? Schafer will never have a season as good as Upton's '12, which you called a 'poor' season.

So far this season, Schafers season is significantly better than what BJ did last year (in 188 PA; not a great sample). And Schafer doesnt have to replicate what Upton did last year, he just has to be better than him right now.

[Dalyn]

So far this season, Schafers season is significantly better than what BJ did last year (in 188 PA; not a great sample). And Schafer doesnt have to replicate what Upton did last year, he just has to be better than him right now.


Significantly better? That's a joke, right? Upton nearly had a 30/30 season with an OPS+ of 108 (higher than Schafer's current OPS+). And a WAR of over 3 (Schafer's is currently at less than 1).

[Heyward]

If BJ starts, who leads off, Schafer?

I don't mind the lineup, best we can do at the moment.

Glad Gattis isn't playing, zero patience at the plate.

[Heyward]

This Salazar kid has been quite impressive so far.

[gilesfan]

Significantly better? That's a joke, right? Upton nearly had a 30/30 season with an OPS+ of 108 (higher than Schafer's current OPS+). And a WAR of over 3 (Schafer's is currently at less than 1).

Upton had a .246/.298/.454 line with a wOBA of .323. wRC of 108. he played below average defense. Schafer has a line of .270/.353/.405 with a wOBA of .337. wRC of 115. His defense is better than what BJ's was last year (Schafer actually positive in CF as opposed to corners). BJ had a higher WAR bc he had 3.5x the number of at bats.

[gilesfan]

This Salazar kid has been quite impressive so far.


And in other news, the sky is blue.

[Dalyn]

Upton had a .246/.298/.454 line with a wOBA of .323. wRC of 108. he played below average defense. Schafer has a line of .270/.353/.405 with a wOBA of .337. wRC of 115. His defense is better than what BJ's was last year (Schafer actually positive in CF as opposed to corners). BJ had a higher WAR bc he had 3.5x the number of at bats.

It doesn't matter how you try to twist it, the idea that Schafer should be starting over BJ is shortsighted and ignorant. The team is heavily invested in BJ. Barely invested at all in Schafer. BJ wants to play. His brother is a huge part of the team. Risking all that money and team chemistry over less than one bad year is crazy.

[gilesfan]

So basically BJ should play despite being awful bc his brother is on the team and the Braves paid him a lot of money. That should go over well chemistry wise.

I haven't twisted anything.

People on here act like BJ is some stud player. Yes, he was......5 years ago.

[Dalyn]

BJ had over a .900 OPS in September/October of last year (and that was with a .227 BAbip). That is what letting him work out of his slump could get us for the playoffs.

[Dalyn]

So basically BJ should play despite being awful bc his brother is on the team and the Braves paid him a lot of money. That should go over well chemistry wise.

I haven't twisted anything.

People on here act like BJ is some stud player. Yes, he was......5 years ago.

Your investment in a player should DEFINITELY have something to do with whether you let them work through a slump or not. And compared to Schafer, BJ IS a stud player.

[jsebe10]

think everyone knows that, u say it in every thread..

I know. ....Jesus

[Dalyn]

Sep/Oct is also historically BJ's best period of the year.

[Dalyn]

I know. ....Jesus

Clearly it is an ongoing discussion.

[jsebe10]

I would rather have him trying to figure it out in these relatively meaningless games than the beginning of next year when everyone in the division starts over tied for 1st place.


It's almost September....what's left to figure out? Only thing figured out here is the that he is hot garbage and this season is a wash. I wish people showed as much patience in Schafer as they do with BJ.

[zbhargrove]

Schafer is the better player right now and BJ has shown no indication of any improvement. Just because he makes money and looked good 5 years ago doesn't mean he should be in the lineup while hitting .200. Sorry, .182.

At least BJ has looked good in his career... Schafer has looked good... never. And this year's tiny streak when he did well before his injury does not count... ridiculously small sample size. And to say BJ was only good 5 years ago is ridiculous even for you. His second half was fantastic last year. Even if he hits .240, his defense and speed make up for it. He's had a tough year. I fully expect him to reverse fortunes with a fresh start next year.

[zbhargrove]

Giles has always hated the Upton's and likes to act like he's some huge insider just because he lives close to where they grew up... its all a show.

[zbhargrove]

I don't disagree, but the Braves are also trying to hold onto the best record in the league. BJ is doing nothing to help us win.

Neither is Schafer...

[zbhargrove]

It's almost September....what's left to figure out? Only thing figured out here is the that he is hot garbage and this season is a wash. I wish people showed as much patience in Schafer as they do with BJ.

Did you miss the years of 2009-2011? I think there was plenty of patience with Schafer... and then his Houston debacle in 2011/2012... He's a career MLB hitter of .230/.314/.319/.632 in 945 at-bats... how much more patience does he get exactly? At least BJ has shown he can be a very good MLB player.

Not to mention... a .727 minor league career OPS (.571 OPS in 400+ career AAA at-bats)... Schafer is simply not a good player. I will agree... neither is BJ this year... but BJ clearly has the bigger upside and potential here.

[cajunrevenge]

Since Heyward is suspended I will fill in for him.

If we dont score in the first inning its game over for us.

[zbhargrove]

Since Heyward is suspended I will fill in for him.

If we dont score in the first inning its game over for us.

Thought that was Niners?

[Dalyn]

Very nice pitch.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Nice hook

[thethe]

Love some wood.

[Russ2dollas]

Bourn making me mad....if he didn't have Boras we prob sign him for about what he got from Cleveland, maybe a little less.........and no BJ

[Dalyn]

Simmons looks okay. Thankfully.

[thethe]

This ump has no clue where the inside corner is against right handers. He took two strikes away from Wood already today.

[bravebonebook]

Bourn making me mad....if he didn't have Boras we prob sign him for about what he got from Cleveland, maybe a little less.........and no BJ

And probably no Justin. Old argument: BJ and Justin for 3 years together OR Prado and Bourn for ??? years.

[thethe]

And probably no Justin. Old argument: BJ and Justin for 3 years together OR Prado and Bourn for ??? years.

Bourn is going to be horrible in two years. BJ has been horrible now but I really believe there is still good baseball in front of BJ.

[Dalyn]

Plunking Christ.

[jsebe10]

Great patience Inglebird!

[thethe]

I love me some Terdo!

[thethe]

A guy who knows how to shorten his swing with two strikes. AMAZING!!

[Dalyn]

Simmons is just...

[jsebe10]

Simmons is just...

Ruined the inning. Still learning

[thethe]

Simmons is just...

He will learn how to hit IMO. It will take time but I think in two years he will be a mid 700 to 800 OPS hitter.

[thethe]

YOU CAN'T STOP ELLIOT JOHNSON!!!

[jsebe10]

Damn. Nice job EJ

[Dalyn]

Thought he caught that one.

[Runnin]

Holy Cow!

[Russ2dollas]

what is the record for the most production out of the 8 hole in the history of MLB....we have to be close.

[stpeteirish]

didn't think Eliot could hit a ball that far

[Runnin]

Seems like everybody we face is throwing 95 or higher.

[thethe]

Man, if this kid stays healthy. Watch out for next year.

Minor
Tehearn
Wood
Medlen
Beachy

Maybe even sign Huddy and trade Medlen. Just so many options.

[bravesnumberone]

Cut down on the walks, please.

[Tapate50]

I see the big Johnson came up huge already.

[gilesfan]

At least BJ has looked good in his career... Schafer has looked good... never. And this year's tiny streak when he did well before his injury does not count... ridiculously small sample size. And to say BJ was only good 5 years ago is ridiculous even for you. His second half was fantastic last year. Even if he hits .240, his defense and speed make up for it. He's had a tough year. I fully expect him to reverse fortunes with a fresh start next year.


Unfortunaltely BJ hasn't been a good defender lately either.

He's hitting .182 and is below a replacement level player. Maybe he can figure out something next year

As for what I know or don't know, you have no clue.

[thethe]

The funny thing is that the Braves minor league system is not going to be rated all that high this year and we are going to hear the same talk that the Bravse future is in trouble because of the strength of the farm. Braves are just too good at drafting it seems because the kids come up too quick!

[zbhargrove]

Unfortunaltely BJ hasn't been a good defender lately either.

He's hitting .182 and is below a replacement level player. Maybe he can figure out something next year

As for what I know or don't know, you have no clue.

His defense has been fine. And yes his stats are below replacement level... But so is the real Schafer. His whole career and performance since injury shows that. The worst players get lucky and have hot streaks.

[thethe]

What.....a......letdown.....

[jsebe10]

What.....a......letdown.....

He doesn't need to hit 5th,6th,7th, or no where near the top spot....he needs to hit 8th....

[Julio3000]

Tears...in...rain.

[jsebe10]

Elliot Johnson is the deciding factor so far in this game. This team still has not gotten their bats going since Heyward canned.

[jsebe10]

Man I really wanna bang those foxsports south girls.

[thethe]

Elliot Johnson is the deciding factor so far in this game. This team still has not gotten their bats going since Heyward canned.

When Wood is going strong you just need a slight push to make it work.

[Dalyn]

Sick.

[CrimsonCowboy]

If Freeman and Simmons don't win gold gloves, just don't give out the dang award ever again

[thethe]

Sick.

Simmons and Freeman make a great team. Tron doesn't have to worry about making perfect throws.

[Julio3000]

Tears...in...mother****ing...rain.

[weso1]

Haven't been able to watch much of the game tonight. Has the ump had a small zone all night?

[Garmel]

Wood's changeup is the best I've seen it this year. He's killing people out there.

[thethe]

Good move to take him out. No need to stress that arm. Lets just get the final 10 outs in the pen.

[Dalyn]

For plunk's sake, Fredi! Let him work out of it.

[thethe]

Haven't been able to watch much of the game tonight. Has the ump had a small zone all night?

He was killing Wood early in the game. Cost him 10 pitches on his count probably.

[jsebe10]

Alex couldn't even get that last pitch out his hand b4 Fredi came busting out the dugout.

[Dalyn]

Good move to take him out. No need to stress that arm. Lets just get the final 10 outs in the pen.


If he is going to be in the playoff rotation, he needs to have an opportunity to work out of an inning or three.

[Teheran_49]

Haven't been able to watch much of the game tonight. Has the ump had a small zone all night?

Seems that way for Wood any way. There's been a few pitches that looked pretty good that the Ump didn't call.

I would have left Wood out there and see if he could get through that inning.

[Dalyn]

If Freeman and Simmons don't win gold gloves, just don't give out the dang award ever again

Simmons, definitely. Freeman's lack of range is going to hurt him.

[skidlee]

For plunk's sake, Fredi! Let him work out of it.

@ 105 pitches and 1 swing could tie the game its the right call to take him out

whats not right is the pitcher he picked

[jsebe10]

Haven't been able to watch much of the game tonight. Has the ump had a small zone all night?

Yea he squeezed him a bit the last couple batters. His line is ridiculous looking though.

[thethe]

If he is going to be in the playoff rotation, he needs to have an opportunity to work out of an inning or three.

This wasn't even any trouble. It was one baserunner with 2 outs. Freddi is smartly IMO watching his pitch count so he is good for the postseason.

[Dalyn]

Simmons and Freeman make a great team. Tron doesn't have to worry about making perfect throws.

Yeah. Freeman's strength complements Simmons nicely.

[Dalyn]

This wasn't even any trouble. It was one baserunner with 2 outs. Freddi is smartly IMO watching his pitch count so he is good for the postseason.


Okay. Not a big deal either way. Just a little sensitive about it, knowing how those pitchers feel.

[thethe]

Starters are going to need to go six innings int he playoffs for sure.

[CrimsonCowboy]

Ayala just not getting the job done

[Dalyn]

@ 105 pitches and 1 swing could tie the game its the right call to take him out

whats not right is the pitcher he picked



Clearly he just brought him in to create a Downs-Giambi matchup. :roll:

[Bj1133]

I just don't have all that much confidence in Ayala

[jsebe10]

Ayala just not getting the job done

And again raises the question...why is he in a Braves uniform?

[Lville21]

Ayala seems to be a go to guy lately --- and I have no idea why.

[Dalyn]

Starters are going to need to go six innings int he playoffs for sure.



At least.

[weso1]

I think he could've left him in for one more guy to avoid using Ayala.

[weso1]

At least.

You can do 6 IP followed by Avilan, Walden and Kimbrel everyday in the playoffs if you have to.

[Dalyn]

You can do 6 IP followed by Avilan, Walden and Kimbrel everyday in the playoffs if you have to.

I think you are right about Kimbrel and Walden. Not sure Avilan is going to make it.

[thethe]

Downs was a great pickup.

[thethe]

I think you are right about Kimbrel and Walden. Not sure Avilan is going to make it.

Because of innings?

[CrimsonCowboy]

And that is why Scott Downs was a great trade

[Dalyn]

Because of innings?

Usage, yeah. Last time out he was shaking his arm after every pitch and didn't have anything.

[jsebe10]

God where has this offense gone? How does a team just stop hitting.

[BlackwaterPark]

Justin is ice cold again

[stpeteirish]

God where has this offense gone? How does a team just stop hitting.

no kidding, we've got 3 hits. One of which was the miricle triple by Eliot. Kind of amazing we're winning.

[thethe]

Amazing we got Downs for nothing.

[Dalyn]

Amazing we got Downs for nothing.

He has been awesome.

[thethe]

We just need one more right handed arm in the pen and we are set for hte playoffs.

[Jay212033]

Justin is ice cold again

If he's ice cold then what's BMac?

[stpeteirish]

simmons just popped up on the first pitch. that never happens...

[stpeteirish]

We just need one more right handed arm in the pen and we are set for hte playoffs.

there's plenty of them out there. I'm sure Wren is reluctant to give anything up for one month of a fifth or sixth arm out of the pen but there's gotta be a team out of contention with some veteran RP's that they should move aside for a young guy.

[DaneHill]

Game MVP

[weso1]

Avilan barely got away with an 0-2 mistake on that one.

[stpeteirish]

another 0-4 for Schafer I guess we can go back to BJ for a while now.

[Dalyn]

another 0-4 for Schafer I guess we can go back to BJ for a while now.

But Schafer is white!

[Dalyn]

Thanks.

[bravesnumberone]

But Schafer is white!

And he hasn't been terrible all year. Imagine!

[The Chosen One]

2 wins in a row against winning teams! :rock:

[TURBO]

WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON WE WON

[The Chosen One]

But Schafer is white!

Don't you go niners mode on me Dalyn.

[Dalyn]

And he hasn't been terrible all year. Imagine!


No. Just practically his whole career.

[Dalyn]

Don't you go niners mode on me Dalyn.

:Gasp:

[stpeteirish]

But Schafer is white!

but he's fast so that makes him comparable to a black guy. Both Schafer and BJ have comparable holes in their bats currently.

[bravesnumberone]

Pitiful offensive performance, but it was enough to get the win. Good work by Wood and the pen despite an idiotic move to bring in Ayala and waste him on walking a hitter. Let's find some offense and get back on a streak.

[Dalyn]

Pitching has really been fantastic this year.

[bravesnumberone]

No. Just practically his whole career.

And he's still been better this year, which is what matters.

[stpeteirish]

Is Wood our best starter now? Seriously.

[Dalyn]

And he's still been better this year, which is what matters.

Only if you are shortsighted.

[Pugfan]

Offense was pathetic but the defense was in incredible. Not sure who should be player of the game.

[bravesnumberone]

What the hell was Elliot even saying lol?

[bravesnumberone]

Only if you are shortsighted.

Well BJ hasn't shown any signs of bouncing back this year, it's almost September, and the goal is to win the World Series this year and worry about next year next year. So yeah, if that's short-sighted, fine.

[Dalyn]

Is Wood our best starter now? Seriously.

Hard to believe, but Wood is pushing up there between Minor and Teheran. Those two are close, but Wood sliding between them and adding pressure is going to be good for them.

[zitothebrave]

Hard to believe, but Wood is pushing up there between Minor and Teheran. Those two are close, but Wood sliding between them and adding pressure is going to be good for them.

Not a bad effort there.

Personally I would have gone with Julio and Minor better look over their shoulder cause Wood is right behind them.

[thethe]

Is Wood our best starter now? Seriously.

Kid is awesome. Second favorite starter after Julio.

[zitothebrave]

Oh yeah, and 19

Way to go boys, getting close to clinching this thing.

[Dalyn]

Not a bad effort there.

Personally I would have gone with Julio and Minor better look over their shoulder cause Wood is right behind them.

Wood.

[Braves1976]

Great pitching by Wood and the bullpen again. Good win, but Schafer isn't the answer at lead-off. Not that BJ is either, Heyward was but he's hurt of course. I am wondering why Walden didn't pitch again? Further, I don't like that Fredi continues to only start Gattis a few times a week (even with Heyward out). Though it makes more sense to sit him for Joey T than Schafer. Gattis hasn't started in the last 5 days (4 games). He was on the bench a lot leading up to his injury too. This and the long injury lay off before, moving around a lot, has to make it even harder for him to get going once he gets in there. If this continues he won't be effective if needed come playoff time (no matter the role), IMO.

BJ also needs to play more too as much as I hate to say it. I am not a fan but we need him to get going as well.

[thethe]

Rotation depth in this organization is sick. Only be better next year. So many options.

[zitothebrave]

I agree 1000% that Bossman needs to be starting. What we should be doing is Starting Bossman and hitting him 8th and tell him he needs to earn his postseason spot.

[bravesnumberone]

Yeah, nobody is really stepping up enough. If Gattis would just for the love of God take a few pitches, he'd probably have more success. Terdo seems to be doing pretty well lately. Neither Schafer nor BJ is the answer in center. My hope is we get Heyward back for October and put him in center, Justin in right and Terd/Gattis in left.

[zitothebrave]

Yeah, nobody is really stepping up enough. If Gattis would just for the love of God take a few pitches, he'd probably have more success. Terdo seems to be doing pretty well lately. Neither Schafer nor BJ is the answer in center. My hope is we get Heyward back for October and put him in center, Justin in right and Terd/Gattis in left.

That's cool by me honestly, but Bossman should be starting right now and be given a shot to earn his way onto the postseason roster.

[bravesnumberone]

I agree 1000% that Bossman needs to be starting. What we should be doing is Starting Bossman and hitting him 8th and tell him he needs to earn his postseason spot.

Well if that happens, say hello again to Simmons again at leadoff. Unless Fredi rolls with CJ there.

[Dalyn]

Upton
Freeman
Johnson
McCann
Uggla
Joey/Gattis/Schafer
Simmons
P
BJ

That is what I would go with for a bit.

[bravesnumberone]

Why? We need Freddie driving in runs?

CJ
Justin
Freeman
Mac
Terd/Gattis
Uggla
Simmons
P
BJ

[Pugfan]

What was impressive is that the Indians often hammer lefties. Cleveland is one of the best against lefties. 3rd highest Ops in the American League. .751

[Braves1976]

I also considered Justin Upton lead-off. I'd support trying him there too, he took off batting second before. Maybe he'll do so again if moved to lead-off. It's worth a shot anyway given our other options. I sure don't want to see anymore of Schafer, BJ or Simmons there. I am okay with Simmons second though because he's did well there.

Here's what I'd try:

J. Upton - RF
Simmons - SS
Freeman - 1B
Mac - C
CJ - 3B
Uggla - 2B
Gattis - LF
BJ Upton - CF
P

Note, I split up the strikeout kings Uggla and BJ Upton. I would also start Joey T in left when not starting Gattis.

[zitothebrave]

Well if that happens, say hello again to Simmons again at leadoff. Unless Fredi rolls with CJ there.

Chris
Justin
Freddie
Mac
Uggla
Terds
Simmons
Bossman

That would be my lineup.

And I'd roll with Simmons at leadoff, no worse than Schafer at leadoff if I had to choose between giving BJ a shot to right the ship before the season is over or not. If we had Heyward I'd advocate a platoon of somesort with BJ but as it is might as well trot him out there everyday and hope he figures out what is wrong.

[bravesnumberone]

I'm fine with BJ getting playing time as long as our lead holds up. I just don't think I can stomach Andrelton Simmons leading off every single game with a pop up.

[Dalyn]

I'm fine with BJ getting playing time as long as our lead holds up. I just don't think I can stomach Andrelton Simmons leading off every single game with a pop up.

Simmons, Schafer, and/or BJ should not be even close to the top of the lineup.

[bravesnumberone]

I mean I'd literally almost rather have McCann there. God***** Niese.

[Julio3000]

Not a bad effort there.

Personally I would have gone with Julio and Minor better look over their shoulder cause Wood is right behind them.

It could end up being a sticky situation.

[zitothebrave]

It could end up being a sticky situation.

Last thing we need is seeing Wood in a pissing contest.

[cajunrevenge]

Thought that was Niners?

Sorry I got my negatrons mixed up.

[Bdawg2309]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vayUS1NRleI

lol wtf?

[Coredor]

Elliot Johnson is a hoot. He kind of reminds me of Will Ohman with the impersonations.

[yeezus]

Every team goes through stretches where it looks like they will never hit, then they crush the ball, then don't hit, etc. The key is to be more good than bad overall. And we've done a good job of that for the most part.

[Braves1976]

Elliot Johnson is a hoot. He kind of reminds me of Will Ohman with the impersonations.

I agree, I've also been impressed with him defensively at second base so far. He looks very similar to Janish at second, and he made some plays tonight that Uggla doesn't make. According to fangraphs, EJ had 11 DRS (defensive runs saved) at second base going into Tuesday's game (including 2 DRS so far with us). That's in only 386 innings and suggests that he's been great defensively at second (total opposite of Uggla in other words). He's actually hit okay thus far surprisingly too. He probably has more hits with us already than he had in months with KC. Plus I really like the speed he brings on the bases.

That said, I would've liked to give him another game or two before going back to Uggla. But I expect Uggla to be back in there tomorrow regardless.

[sentenza]

What will happen, when Alex will learn to hold his pitch count lower?
He can become a Ace-pitcher, No. 1 starter for every team!

I hope in 2-3 years he can go 7 innings + every game!
(on the other side I hope the teams will always have problems with his idiosyncratic delivery)

[Runnin]

Elliot Johnson is a hoot. He kind of reminds me of Will Ohman with the impersonations.We'll see if his shtick lasts longer than Ohman's did.

[thethe]

What will happen, when Alex will learn to hold his pitch count lower?
He can become a Ace-pitcher, No. 1 starter for every team!

I hope in 2-3 years he can go 7 innings + every game!
(on the other side I hope the teams will always have problems with his idiosyncratic delivery)

I love the kid. Need to see how he is second/third/fourth time around the league but all the signs are there for top of the rotation starter.

[NYCBrave]

I love the kid. Need to see how he is second/third/fourth time around the league but all the signs are there for top of the rotation starter.

Do you know if he's on any type of innings limit this year? Was trying to figure out if he'd be available for us in the playoffs. As it looks right now he's one of our best 3 starters.

[Julio3000]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vayUS1NRleI

lol wtf?

Well, I think we know why he was cut by the Royals.

[thethe]

Do you know if he's on any type of innings limit this year? Was trying to figure out if he'd be available for us in the playoffs. As it looks right now he's one of our best 3 starters.

He threw 155 last year so I think he should be good for the rest of the year. They might skip a start of his in September just to make sure he is rested.

[Teheran_49]

The Chris Sale comparisons look pretty good now. Like most young players he had a rough beginning in his first few starts but he turned it around rather quickly. It took Minor a while to put it together and get his confidence going but Wood has not looked back since. It's crazy to think Wood was drafted just last June and pitched A ball all of last year and then only pitched 50+ innings in AA with a very brief stint in AAA. It is extremely early in his career but it's hard not to get excited about what this guy is doing. It's not like he's doing this with smoke and mirrors.

[thethe]

He doesn't throw as hard as Sale and doesn't have a wipeout slider. Haven't seen too much of Sale but I think Wood as the better changeup which might make him less susceptible to an injury.

[emk418]

Wood absolutely has the ability to be a top of the rotation starter. He's got plus stuff and keeps the ball on the ground. All he needs to do is become a little more efficient and pitch deeper into games. As I've said since we drafted him, his mechanics are not a problem. Just because they are a little funky, it doesn't mean he doesn't have solid mechanics.

[zitothebrave]

He doesn't throw as hard as Sale and doesn't have a wipeout slider. Haven't seen too much of Sale but I think Wood as the better changeup which might make him less susceptible to an injury.

Wood's mechanics not his repertoire is what puts him at risk. It's hard to tell if he's sound now, and it's even harder to tell if he can keep repeating them to stay sound.

[thethe]

Wood's mechanics not his repertoire is what puts him at risk. It's hard to tell if he's sound now, and it's even harder to tell if he can keep repeating them to stay sound.

He seems to repeat his delivery just fine to me but I don't have the luxury of side by sides in slow motion. I don't see him off balance that often.

[ramadon101]

There's a pretty good discussion going on now over at Primer about a recent Terrance Moore article (ironic that a Terrance Moore article actually ignited a lively intellectual discussion but his troll-like abilities have the effect of inducing vitriol amongst more reasonable individuals) about this very topic.

Pitcher mechanics and long-term health are still very much a gray (if not black) box. There are some physicians and biomechanical experts who believe in myths like the Verducci effect, overall pitch limits, etc. There are others who think it's all bogus and it's largely a lottery ticket. I fall into the latter camp. I'm not saying pitchers should just throw caution to the wind and organizations should implement programs so every single pitcher has to throw Walter Johnson's innings to make it up to the bigs, but there isn't always a correlation regarding # of pitches, workload, velocity, etc. There MAY be a correlation between certain types of pitches (sliders tend to be the biggest target) and elbow/shoulder injuries and I do believe there may be some validity there.. but individual genetics and luck are probably the biggest drivers behind injuries.

I tend to emphasize repeatable mechanics over irregular mechanics -- the latter has a far worse of a damaging effect on a labrum or tendon over time.

So, in short, I'm not overly concerned about Wood's delivery, so long as he's continuing to repeat his same motion time and time again. It's funny how pitchers with funky, jerky deliveries like Wood can pitch for long periods without any sort of incident while pitchers like Harvey who are extolled as having excellent mechanics can end up with injuries (and sometimes, unfortunately, never return to their prior form ala Mark Prior). Much like life, elbows and labrums can be fickle.

[Bama9507]

Oh my

[Krovahn]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vayUS1NRleI

lol wtf?This. Right here. Makes picking him up completely worth it. Not to mention his offense in this game was the reason we won. (again, from an offensive standpoint)