Braves

[msstate7]

Callaspo is garbage. We need to ship him down to AAA or release him.

4 for last 36 yet he starts everyday. Fredi is an idiot. Ciriaco isn't great, but he doesn't hit pop ups every at bat. Even callaspo's hits are pop ups

[trob115]

4 for last 36 yet he starts everyday. Fredi is an idiot. Ciriaco isn't great, but he doesn't hit pop ups every at bat. Even callaspo's hits are pop ups

I'm still not happy that Fredi is the manager, but that's a debate for another day. Callaspo has been awful the month of May. Anyone would be better at this point.

[msstate7]

Simmons hit a hr on May 11th vs the Reds. Since that hr, he's 4 for 34. I love this kid, but he must not be very smart. Since that hr, he's right back falling on his knees after swings. Hey andrelton, you are NOT a power hitter. Cut down on your swing!!!!!

[War Machine Dawg]

Simmons hit a hr on May 11th vs the Reds. Since that hr, he's 4 for 34. I love this kid, but he must not be very smart. Since that hr, he's right back falling on his knees after swings. Hey andrelton, you are NOT a power hitter. Cut down on your swing!!!!!

I'd say some of that is how randomly Fredi moves him around the lineup. 7th, 8th, 2nd, 5th....he's never in one spot long. Honestly, I think he's a perfect fit for the 2 hole. I have no idea why we moved him down to 7 and put Callaspo there. Put Simba back at 2 where he'll see better pitches with Fredi behind him and can get on base.

[smootness]

I'd say some of that is how randomly Fredi moves him around the lineup. 7th, 8th, 2nd, 5th....he's never in one spot long. Honestly, I think he's a perfect fit for the 2 hole. I have no idea why we moved him down to 7 and put Callaspo there. Put Simba back at 2 where he'll see better pitches with Fredi behind him and can get on base.

Maybin is at 2 now, and that's where he should be. He's been great there. Simmons is fine down in the order, he's just cold right now.

Callapo just shouldn't play. Peraza should be up pretty soon, and I'd like to see him lead off with the lineup looking like this:
Peraza
Maybin
Freeman
Markakis
Peterson
Simmons
LF
C

[KB21]

Simmons has fallen into bad habits. At the start of the year, he was swinging the bat like he should. Now, he's back to swinging for the fences, and he is cork screwing himself into the ground.

[msstate7]

Maybin is at 2 now, and that's where he should be. He's been great there. Simmons is fine down in the order, he's just cold right now.

Callapo just shouldn't play. Peraza should be up pretty soon, and I'd like to see him lead off with the lineup looking like this:
Peraza
Maybin
Freeman
Markakis
Peterson
Simmons
LF
C

I'd like to see terdo get a shot at lf. He's headed to Rome now. Dfa EY

CJ is supposed to be back this week. Will we see a platoon between Peterson and CJ at 3rd once peraza is here? CJ murders lh pitching so I want him playing when we see them

[msstate7]

We pitched the core of our bullpen today. They pitched 5 scoreless innings giving up 3 hits, 2 walks, and struck out 5. Here's these guys' era this year...

Cunniff -- 1.80
Jim Johnson -- 2.53
Grilli -- 4.40
Masset -- 1.50
Avilan -- 2.50

These guys are really having nice years and are stabilizing our pen.

[msstate7]

Folty with a very impressive start.

7.2 ip 3 h 1 er 1 bb 7 k

[Really Clark?]

This is the glimpse of what his potential could be. Top of rotation stuff.

[msstate7]

This is the glimpse of what his potential could be. Top of rotation stuff.

How good could this rotation be if Teheran and wood get back into last year's form? I feel comfortable that 5th starter will be good between Perez, banuelos, wisler, fried, Jenkins, winkler, Sanchez, etc

[smootness]

Folty with a very impressive start.

7.2 ip 3 h 1 er 1 bb 7 k

Phenomenal stuff from him. This is the start I was waiting for, to put it all together for one start, and he did that today. He was darn near unhittable for most of it, and he gains velocity as the game goes.

If he can just keep commanding his fastball, the sky really is the limit.

[smootness]

How good could this rotation be if Teheran and wood get back into last year's form? I feel comfortable that 5th starter will be good between Perez, banuelos, wisler, fried, Jenkins, winkler, Sanchez, etc

Well, by the time Sanchez is ready, I'm sure it will look different all around. But yes, it could round into a very good rotation by the end of this year and going into next. Banuelos has really been impressive lately, and Wisler could be called up at any point as well. Then Jenkins could be ready by next year as well.

It's exciting, for sure. I'm especially interested in seeing Fried next year.

[Really Clark?]

How good could this rotation be if Teheran and wood get back into last year's form? I feel comfortable that 5th starter will be good between Perez, banuelos, wisler, fried, Jenkins, winkler, Sanchez, etc

It has the potential to be the one of, if not the best 5 man rotations in the MLB. IMO. Really like what is in the minors as well. I think we may have the luxury of being able to deal a piece or two from this collection to help other areas as well. If we add a really good draft this year, can be exciting times for a while.

[msstate7]

Well, by the time Sanchez is ready, I'm sure it will look different all around. But yes, it could round into a very good rotation by the end of this year and going into next. Banuelos has really been impressive lately, and Wisler could be called up at any point as well. Then Jenkins could be ready by next year as well.

It's exciting, for sure. I'm especially interested in seeing Fried next year.

I wonder what we're gonna do with Jenkins, banuelos, and wisler next year. I think all 3 will be ready, but only 1 spot. Will we trade 1 for a catcher or corner OF? Pitch 1 out of pen? Just gonna be interesting...

[msstate7]

Well, by the time Sanchez is ready, I'm sure it will look different all around. But yes, it could round into a very good rotation by the end of this year and going into next. Banuelos has really been impressive lately, and Wisler could be called up at any point as well. Then Jenkins could be ready by next year as well.

It's exciting, for sure. I'm especially interested in seeing Fried next year.

Yeah, Sanchez might have been a little premature. Hopefully Sanchez, hursh, and sims all pan out for a 2nd wave of good starters

[smootness]

I wonder what we're gonna do with Jenkins, banuelos, and wisler next year. I think all 3 will be ready, but only 1 spot. Will we trade 1 for a catcher or corner OF? Pitch 1 out of pen? Just gonna be interesting...

I think it will probably take care of itself. Jenkins won't be ready to start the year, and someone will likely go down with an injury, unfortunately. Regardless, pitching depth is a very good thing. I would be ok with trading somebody if the right trade presented itself, but I'm not a fan of going into a year with only 5-6 good SP options.

[smootness]

Yeah, Sanchez might have been a little premature. Hopefully Sanchez, hursh, and sims all pan out for a 2nd wave of good starters

I'm kind of pessimistic on Sims. He still has time, but he just hasn't looked good for over a year now. I'm not counting on him, and if he comes along, I'll be pleasantly surprised.

I honestly think Hursh is destined to be a closer or setup man, and I'm ok with that. It would be nice to have a guy in the pen at some point next year who can throw 100. I would have already moved him to the pen to get him ready for that, but we'll see.

In terms of ceiling/potential, I'd rank our pitching prospects like this:
1. Folty
2. Jenkins
3. Fried
4. Banuelos
5. Sanchez
6. Wisler
7. Sims

We do have guys like Povse, Sobotka, Janas, and Thurman who kind of fit the mold of pitchers we've had success with in the past, guys that aren't really prospects but just keep moving up and pitching well - Beachy, Medlen, Oberholtzer. Not saying any of those guys will have that kind of success, but we have intriguing options even outside of our top prospects, which is great.

We also have Fulenchek, our HS draftee from last year that hasn't pitched yet this year. And I would expect us to come out of this year's draft with at least 2 more high-ceiling pitching options.

[msstate7]

I'm kind of pessimistic on Sims. He still has time, but he just hasn't looked good for over a year now. I'm not counting on him, and if he comes along, I'll be pleasantly surprised.

I honestly think Hursh is destined to be a closer or setup man, and I'm ok with that. It would be nice to have a guy in the pen at some point next year who can throw 100. I would have already moved him to the pen to get him ready for that, but we'll see.

In terms of ceiling/potential, I'd rank our pitching prospects like this:
1. Folty
2. Jenkins
3. Fried
4. Banuelos
5. Sanchez
6. Wisler
7. Sims

We do have guys like Povse, Sobotka, Janas, and Thurman who kind of fit the mold of pitchers we've had success with in the past, guys that aren't really prospects but just keep moving up and pitching well - Beachy, Medlen, Oberholtzer. Not saying any of those guys will have that kind of success, but we have intriguing options even outside of our top prospects, which is great.

We also have Fulenchek, our HS draftee from last year that hasn't pitched yet this year. And I would expect us to come out of this year's draft with at least 2 more high-ceiling pitching options.

Don't sleep on Williams Perez. I think he will stay on the team, if nothing else as a reliever. I like this kid

[KB21]

I'm kind of pessimistic on Sims. He still has time, but he just hasn't looked good for over a year now. I'm not counting on him, and if he comes along, I'll be pleasantly surprised.

I honestly think Hursh is destined to be a closer or setup man, and I'm ok with that. It would be nice to have a guy in the pen at some point next year who can throw 100. I would have already moved him to the pen to get him ready for that, but we'll see.

In terms of ceiling/potential, I'd rank our pitching prospects like this:
1. Folty
2. Jenkins
3. Fried
4. Banuelos
5. Sanchez
6. Wisler
7. Sims

We do have guys like Povse, Sobotka, Janas, and Thurman who kind of fit the mold of pitchers we've had success with in the past, guys that aren't really prospects but just keep moving up and pitching well - Beachy, Medlen, Oberholtzer. Not saying any of those guys will have that kind of success, but we have intriguing options even outside of our top prospects, which is great.

We also have Fulenchek, our HS draftee from last year that hasn't pitched yet this year. And I would expect us to come out of this year's draft with at least 2 more high-ceiling pitching options.

I imagine it will be more than two. Atlanta's lower minors is pretty barren when it comes to pitching prospects right now.

[msstate7]

When approaching an mlb draft, do you draft for need? I would think its best to draft best available player every pick regardless of position.

[KB21]

When approaching an mlb draft, do you draft for need? I would think its best to draft best available player every pick regardless of position.

I'd go with the Paul Snyder/Bill Wight philosophy on drafting. Focus on pitching. Everyone wants pitching, and if you have a surplus of pitching, you can get position players. If a pitcher and a position player are valued equally, go with the pitcher.

Also, I want to add that I think it is crazy that people still call Fredi an idiot when this team is 22-21 right now. EVERYONE had this team as a cellar dweller, and to this point, this team is is only 2 games off where last year's team was. In 2014, the team was 24-19 after 43 games.

[msstate7]

I'd go with the Paul Snyder/Bill Wight philosophy on drafting. Focus on pitching. Everyone wants pitching, and if you have a surplus of pitching, you can get position players. If a pitcher and a position player are valued equally, go with the pitcher.

Also, I want to add that I think it is crazy that people still call Freddie an idiot when this team is 22-21 right now. EVERYONE had this team as a cellar dweller, and to this point, this team is is only 2 games off where last year's team was. In 2014, the team was 24-19 after 43 games.

If you watch any team as much as I was the Braves (every game), I'm sure that team's manager will get called an idiot more than a few times. I can't argue with you though, fredi has done a good job this year. I think he sticks with guys like callaspo too much at times, but injuries have made it tough to sit callaspo lately.

[KB21]

If you watch any team as much as I was the Braves (every game), I'm sure that team's manager will get called an idiot more than a few times. I can't argue with you though, fredi has done a good job this year. I think he sticks with guys like callaspo too much at times, but injuries have made it tough to sit callaspo lately.

Bobby was known for sticking with a guy for too long because he would err on the side that the guy would figure it out. Callaspo was scorching earlier in the year, and I think Fredi believes he can get that back. I agree with you that someone else needs to play at this point. Chris Johnson will be back from injury before long, and sometime down the road, maybe the look to move Jace Peterson to third and get Jose Peraza some time at second.

[shoeless joe]

If you play a guy that's struggling and he never figures it out then you stuck with him to long...if you stick with a guy that's struggling and he finally comes around then you're being patient.

I have defended fredi at times over the last couple years and I've thought, at times, a change wouldn't be a bad thing. However, there's no doubt that he deserves a ton of credit for this year and for 2013 and 2012. He also bares responsibility for last year and the 2011 collapse.

As far as comparing him to cox I think there are several things to look at. In a lot of ways fredi is a lot like bobby with his patient approach and his "by the book" approach to pitching moves, especially in playoff situations. But bobby showed more fire in my opinion. I also think the players had a greater level of respect for bobby, not surprising since he's a HOF manager. I am always a little more lenient in my thoughts on baseball coaches getting the boot, simply because the game is so fickle, and the only thing that makes a move the rite one is if it works..."right" moves that don't work have cost many a coaching job. But there is definitely something missing from Fredi's managerial style...I can't quite put my finger on what I think it is but it's definitely something.

[msstate7]

Well after the first quarter of the season, we're 1 game over .500 (3.5 out of first and 2 games out of WC). This is a huge road trip (Dodgers x3, Giants x4, and dbacks x3). If we somehow come home at .500 or better (doubtful), this team has a chance to stick around a while. It'll be interesting if we go stick around till the trading deadline, if we add a player or 2.

[msstate7]

David O'Brien @DOBrienAJC
For those who've asked about Joey T, he's about to start his rehab assignment for Single-A Rome. twitter.com/JoeTerdoslavic?

Joseph Terdoslavich @JoeTerdoslavich
Game in Charleston tonight. First one of the year.

[msstate7]

2:32 PM
@mlbbowman
Since becoming the everyday CF on May 2, Cameron Maybin has slashed .308/.400/.431. 4/5 SB #Braves

[BoomBoom]

If you play a guy that's struggling and he never figures it out then you stuck with him to long...if you stick with a guy that's struggling and he finally comes around then you're being patient.

I have defended fredi at times over the last couple years and I've thought, at times, a change wouldn't be a bad thing. However, there's no doubt that he deserves a ton of credit for this year and for 2013 and 2012. He also bares responsibility for last year and the 2011 collapse.

As far as comparing him to cox I think there are several things to look at. In a lot of ways fredi is a lot like bobby with his patient approach and his "by the book" approach to pitching moves, especially in playoff situations. But bobby showed more fire in my opinion. I also think the players had a greater level of respect for bobby, not surprising since he's a HOF manager. I am always a little more lenient in my thoughts on baseball coaches getting the boot, simply because the game is so fickle, and the only thing that makes a move the rite one is if it works..."right" moves that don't work have cost many a coaching job. But there is definitely something missing from Fredi's managerial style...I can't quite put my finger on what I think it is but it's definitely something.

there's two entirely different aspects of being a MLB manager. the first is roughly being a babysitter. day to day activities, etc. getting everyone on the bench enough playing time to stay sharp. playing thru slumps. professionalism. putting your PLAYERS in position to succeed. Bobby and Fredi excel at that aspect. the other is in utilizing matchups to put your TEAM in the best position to succeed. Bobby and Fredi are horrible at that aspect, especially the bullpen. i'll point out again: in Bobby's next to last game (and the one that sealed the Braves playoff fate that year), he pulled a young fireballer rookier RP that had given up a seeing-eye single, for a generic nothing-special LH RP to pitch against a LH batter.....who hits LHPs better than RHPs. That fireballer was Craig Kimbrel. he pulled Craig Kimbrel for a LHP, and for no damn good reason. they lost the game and the series on that at-bat. and i don't think Kimbrel ever got another appearance of significance in the playoffs, as he was always held in reserve when the game was on the line. can't use your closer with the bases loaded in the 8th!

[KB21]

Williams Perez has settled in. He had a rough start, but he is sitting at 80 pitches through 4 innings. He just struck out the side. He's a bulldog on the mound. His stuff isn't great, but when he can locate and mix in his change, he looks pretty good.

[BoomBoom]

Williams Perez has settled in. He had a rough start, but he is sitting at 80 pitches through 4 innings. He just struck out the side. He's a bulldog on the mound. His stuff isn't great, but when he can locate and mix in his change, he looks pretty good.

ump's been trying to squeeze him too.

[msstate7]

Williams Perez has settled in. He had a rough start, but he is sitting at 80 pitches through 4 innings. He just struck out the side. He's a bulldog on the mound. His stuff isn't great, but when he can locate and mix in his change, he looks pretty good.

I really like this guy. I think he's in Atlanta to stay. Maybe not as a starter, but here nonetheless

[msstate7]

Since Perez got lit up by Washington in his debut...

12.0 ip 15 k 2 er 1.50 era

10.0 ip vs 1st place teams (rays and Dodgers)

That's pretty dang impressive.

[msstate7]

Since Perez got lit up by Washington in his debut...

12.0 ip 15 k 2 er 1.50 era

10.0 ip vs 1st place teams (rays and Dodgers)

That's pretty dang impressive.

Make it 13.0 ip 16 k 2 er 1.38 era

Very nice, kid

[Really Clark?]

Rumors about Callaspo being DFA very soon.

[msstate7]

Rumors about Callaspo being DFA very soon.

I suppose when CJ comes back. CJ's Gwinnett game was rained out in 2nd inning.

[BoomBoom]

there's two entirely different aspects of being a MLB manager. the first is roughly being a babysitter. day to day activities, etc. getting everyone on the bench enough playing time to stay sharp. playing thru slumps. professionalism. putting your PLAYERS in position to succeed. Bobby and Fredi excel at that aspect. the other is in utilizing matchups to put your TEAM in the best position to succeed. Bobby and Fredi are horrible at that aspect, especially the bullpen. i'll point out again: in Bobby's next to last game (and the one that sealed the Braves playoff fate that year), he pulled a young fireballer rookier RP that had given up a seeing-eye single, for a generic nothing-special LH RP to pitch against a LH batter.....who hits LHPs better than RHPs. That fireballer was Craig Kimbrel. he pulled Craig Kimbrel for a LHP, and for no damn good reason. they lost the game and the series on that at-bat. and i don't think Kimbrel ever got another appearance of significance in the playoffs, as he was always held in reserve when the game was on the line. can't use your closer with the bases loaded in the 8th!

Fredi trying hard to prove me right at the moment LOL. Let your LOOGY pitch an entire inning. then when 1st 2 get on and 2 RHs are up, don't pull him. idiotic bullpen management.

[msstate7]

My boy, ciriaco 2-3 (rbi) and a huge pick at 3b

[msstate7]

We just can't beat the Dodgers. 1-6 last year and just blew one tonight bc of avilan's walks

[BoomBoom]

We just can't beat the Dodgers. 1-6 last year and just blew one tonight bc of avilan's walks

you should never blame your LOOGY for walking 2 RH hitters. he was put in position to fail.

[KB21]

We just can't beat the Dodgers. 1-6 last year and just blew one tonight bc of avilan's walks

And Avilan has been one of the few guys in the pen that Fredi has been able to count on in high leverage situations. He just didn't have his location tonight. I knew when Perez went out that it would be an adventure for Atlanta.

[KB21]

you should never blame your LOOGY for walking 2 RH hitters. he was put in position to fail.

He hasn't been just a LOOGY this year. He's been better against right handed hitters than left handed hitters, and the at bats are almost equal (35 vs RH, 32 vs LH).

[msstate7]

Tough loss. Maybe Kershaw will continue to struggle tomorrow. Who am I kidding? His cy young campaign will kick off tomorrow

[BoomBoom]

He hasn't been just a LOOGY this year. He's been better against right handed hitters than left handed hitters, and the at bats are almost equal (35 vs RH, 32 vs LH).

regression to mean.

[msstate7]

I guess Perez was more impressive than we even thought he was

[msstate7]

Can't help but think how much better our record would be with Shea Simmons. We've blown a ton of games with our pen

[BoomBoom]

Can't help but think how much better our record would be with Shea Simmons. We've blown a ton of games with our pen

true. or a healthy varvaro. i speculated he was hurt after his horrible spring, and he just went down for the season. can't remember what happened to Vizcaino, i assume he's hurt too. david carpenter would have helped this club too, not sure why he was shipped out for nothing. Walden too, but whatever it took to close that steal of Miller and Jenkins is fine by me.

[msstate7]

true. or a healthy varvaro. i speculated he was hurt after his horrible spring, and he just went down for the season. can't remember what happened to Vizcaino, i assume he's hurt too. david carpenter would have helped this club too, not sure why he was shipped out for nothing. Walden too, but whatever it took to close that steal of Miller and Jenkins is fine by me.

Vizcaino is serving 80-game suspension for ped's.

Mckirihan is also serving 80-game suspension.

Definetely could've used both

[msstate7]

@DOBrienAJC
#Braves working on possible trade of Callaspo, why he was scratched

If we can get anything for him, it's a win

[msstate7]

As much as tonight's loss stings, I'm not gonna let it get me down. Perez and folty pitching well has me excited. If I was wisler, banuelos, Jenkins, etc, I'd be more than a little worried bc i think we may have our rotation for the rest of the year and maybe next year. I really like Perez

[KB21]

I guess Perez was more impressive than we even thought he was

He gave up 7 hits through 6 innings. He had given up 6 hits in the first 3 innings. That guy settled down, mixed his pitches well, and was unpredictable.

[KB21]

Also, several reports say the Braves are trying to trade Callaspo.

[msstate7]

11:39 PM
@mlbbowman
Fredi says the #Braves are trying to deal Callaspo, but a potential DFA later this week seems to be just as likely

[msstate7]

Kimbrel (5.63 era) just gave up walk off hit to Angels.

Hart sold high on ck

[War Machine Dawg]

Kimbrel (5.63 era) just gave up walk off hit to Angels.

Hart sold high on ck

Yep. You also gotta factor in the arm trouble scare last season. Everyone who's bitched about that move is nuts. Sell high on CK, get a damn good prospect in Wisler, a high ceiling player who hasn't quite panned out but is still young in Maybin, and get the Pads to take BJ and the majority of his contract off our hands. I'd call that an absolute WIN by anyone's definition.

[War Machine Dawg]

11:39 PM
@mlbbowman
Fredi says the #Braves are trying to deal Callaspo, but a potential DFA later this week seems to be just as likely

I figure this is what happens. Callaspo has played wayyyyyyy too much for the whole league to see he's done. No one is going to trade for him. At best someone will take a him on a minor league flyer. Ciriaco or Petersen to 3B?

[msstate7]

Where do you think we'll spend our new found payroll money this offseason?

[BoomBoom]

Where do you think we'll spend our new found payroll money this offseason?

Corner OF, no doubt.

[KB21]

Where do you think we'll spend our new found payroll money this offseason?


Corner OF, no doubt.

I think it will be interesting to see if they go after Jason Heyward now that his contract demands will likely be tampered with the season he is having.

[msstate7]

I think it will be interesting to see if they go after Jason Heyward now that his contract demands will likely be tampered with the season he is having.

Need a rh guy imo to put between FF and markakis.

I do think jhey would be an asset to our pitching staff though. Move markakis to lf and with Maybin/Mallex in cf that's a solid defensive OF. I wouldn't pay top dollar for jhey though.

So far that jhey trade was a total flogging. If we get miller, Jenkins, and resign jhey, we might get even for wainwright over time

[msstate7]

Wouldn't mind getting Gomez. Although I can't stand him now, I think I'd come around to him with an A on his hat haha

[War Machine Dawg]

Desperately need an OF bat and some OF prospects. We're still terribly thin with bats in general, but especially OF bats, in our farm system. The rankings are a little inflated because of our ridiculous amount of pitching prospects.

I don't even know who will be on the free agent market this season, other than J-Hey. And I don't see us bringing him back. He's got a good glove, but he's not the kind of impact bat we need. Still wish we had tried to find a way to keep J-Up.

[cbrunt29]

Rumors of a Callapso and Juan Uribe trade. Certainly we'd have to give more than just Callapso, wouldn't we?

[msstate7]

Rumors of a Callapso and Juan Uribe trade. Certainly we'd have to give more than just Callapso, wouldn't we?

Strange trade. Uribe has a nice glove, but he's right handed. We have CJ and Gosselin at 3b... Both rh

[cbrunt29]

The deal was close to being finalized last night, but there seems to be a holdup. Callapso has the right to reject any trade before June 15. That could be the holdup

[msstate7]

The deal was close to being finalized last night, but there seems to be a holdup. Callapso has the right to reject any trade before June 15. That could be the holdup

To the Dodgers?! He'd be stupid to reject that unless the trade involves another guy and the Dodgers plan to dfa callaspo

[War Machine Dawg]

Callaspo rejected the trade. It was a 6 player deal, apparently. I'd guess we hold on to him and attempt to revive it after the 15th when he can't reject it.

[msstate7]

Supposedly callaspo denied trade. Oh well, he'll be cut by Thursday most likely when CJ returns

[msstate7]

10:10 PM
@DOBrienAJC
6-player deal likely done, #Braves sending Callaspo and 3 others, none impact-type players, to Dodgers and getting a minor leaguer and Uribe

0:12 PM
@Ken_Rosenthal
Again, as reported previously, #Dodgers getting major-league pitching in deal. Would expect that Cahill and/or Stults is involved.

[KB21]

Word is that Atlanta may be getting either Zach Lee or Chris Anderson in the deal. If that is the case, then holy smokes!!! John Hart worked a freaking miracle on this deal.

[msstate7]

Word is that Atlanta may be getting either Zach Lee or Chris Anderson in the deal. If that is the case, then holy smokes!!! John Hart worked a freaking miracle on this deal.

Good. Maybe he can take Teheran's rotation spot. Julio starting to look like Hanson and jurgens

[msstate7]

Bold prediction...

Teheran won't be in our roataion by the end of next season. Hanson, jurgens, and now Teheran

[KB21]

Bold prediction...

Teheran won't be in our roataion by the end of next season. Hanson, jurgens, and now Teheran

I'm not going to jump to those conclusions yet. Tehran always had better stuff and better mechanics than either of those two. Something is amiss though. There is an injury no one knows about, IMO.

[msstate7]

I'm not going to jump to those conclusions yet. Tehran always had better stuff and better mechanics than either of those two. Something is amiss though. There is an injury no one knows about, IMO.

With us stock piling pitching, I think Teheran should be trade bait.

[msstate7]

Teheran vs Dodgers...
4.1 ip 10 h 8 er 3 bb 1 k

Season era = 4.91

He rocked all thru ST and it has continued into the season. I'm telling you it's time to sell

[KB21]

This happened at AAA a few years ago when they tinkered with his mechanics.

[msstate7]

This happened at AAA a few years ago when they tinkered with his mechanics.

Then they need to quit tinkering. I know I overreact, but I expect much better from Teheran. I really hope Teheran makes me look like a fool the rest of the year.

[msstate7]

@mlbbowman
Teheran has allowed 10 hits or more in seven of 77 career starts. But as previously noted, three times in his past six starts.

The #Braves won't get Zach Lee or Chris Anderson if the deal with the Dodgers is approved

[War Machine Dawg]

Bold prediction...

Teheran won't be in our roataion by the end of next season. Hanson, jurgens, and now Teheran


With us stock piling pitching, I think Teheran should be trade bait.

You've lost your damn mind. Teheran is struggling but it's wayyyyyyy too early to be comparing him to Hanson, JJ, etc. or suggesting we trade him. Pitchers have bad stretches and even bad years. Could be the case for Teheran this season. Hell, look at Halladay's career. The guy was about to be out of baseball then became the best pitcher in the game for several years. Shit happens in this sport. Just gotta ride it out and hope Teheran figures it out. And I'm betting he will eventually.

[KB21]

Now Mark Bowman is saying Lee/Anderson will not be included in the deal.

[msstate7]

12:20 AM
@KevinMcAlpin
In 6 road starts this season, Julio Teheran has posted a 7.42 ERA (25 ER/30.1 IP). 8 of 10 HR allowed have come away from Turner Field

[KB21]

Reportedly the Braves are getting Chris Withrow in the deal. He's a RHP who has a mid to upper 90s fastball that is coming off TJ surgery.

[KB21]

Sounds like Eric Stults and Ian Thomas possibly included in the deal for Uribe and Withrow. A fourth player from Atlanta is mentioned but no word on who yet.

[msstate7]

Sounds like Eric Stults and Ian Thomas possibly included in the deal for Uribe and Withrow. A fourth player from Atlanta is mentioned but no word on who yet.

Braves get Juan uribe and withrow

Dodgers get stults, Jamie, callaspo, and Thomas

[msstate7]

Braves' 3b now includes uribe, CJ, and Gosselin. They're all right handed. Really makes me wonder if we're working on a deal to move CJ when he gets healthy.

[msstate7]

You've lost your damn mind. Teheran is struggling but it's wayyyyyyy too early to be comparing him to Hanson, JJ, etc. or suggesting we trade him. Pitchers have bad stretches and even bad years. Could be the case for Teheran this season. Hell, look at Halladay's career. The guy was about to be out of baseball then became the best pitcher in the game for several years. Shit happens in this sport. Just gotta ride it out and hope Teheran figures it out. And I'm betting he will eventually.

Yeah my comparison to the flops is premature. I think Teheran could have value as our 3-4 pitcher.

[War Machine Dawg]

Yeah my comparison to the flops is premature. I think Teheran could have value as our 3-4 pitcher.

Once aGAIN, you're nuts. He's got legit ace stuff and was dominant last season. This is the first bad season he's had. Deal with it. A few good starts from Shelby Miller doesn't make him great. I think he's more likely to be a long term 3-4 than Teheran. Baseball is the hardest sport to sustain success. Even the best of the best have had whole seasons where they just couldn't figure it out. Verlander had a similar season early in his career. I'd know, I had him on my fantasy team that year - just like I do Teheran this year. Doesn't mean they aren't legit ace pitchers. To borrow a saying from a certain nut job MSU baseball head coach: "That's baseball."

[msstate7]

Once aGAIN, you're nuts. He's got legit ace stuff and was dominant last season. This is the first bad season he's had. Deal with it. A few good starts from Shelby Miller doesn't make him great. I think he's more likely to be a long term 3-4 than Teheran. Baseball is the hardest sport to sustain success. Even the best of the best have had whole seasons where they just couldn't figure it out. Verlander had a similar season early in his career. I'd know, I had him on my fantasy team that year - just like I do Teheran this year. Doesn't mean they aren't legit ace pitchers. To borrow a saying from a certain nut job MSU baseball head coach: "That's baseball."

Shelby miller's stuff is far superior to teheran's. Teheran has to have pin point location to be a good pitcher and he just doesn't have it consistently this year. Miller doesn't have to be that precise bc he throws harder

[msstate7]

Miller career stats...
3.08 era 430 ip 357 h 360 k 1.18 whip

Teheran...
3.36 era 487.2 ip 451 h 419 k 1.18 whip

So they're very close, but one is headed one way and the other the other way. If I could only hold one, it's miller no question

I'm just pissed at teheran's inconsistency. I really do hope he turns it around, but I could easily see wood and folty pass him by this year if the trends continue. Miller is already ahead of Teheran.

[msstate7]

I think this trade was a good move for our bullpen going forward.

Withrow career stats...
2.73 era 56 ip 71 k .156 avg 1.09 whip

Bullpen next year....

Withrow
Simmons
Avilan

I'd trade grilli and hold on to Jim Johnson. That would give us a solid core. We need another lhp before next season. I wonder if banuelos could be that guy.

[msstate7]

:36 PM
@mlbbowman
Chris Johnson will be activated from the disabled list today. LHP Donnie Veal will fill the other vacant roster spot. #Braves

[msstate7]

7:51 PM
Grant McAuley ?@grantmcauley 10s10 seconds ago
Grant McAuley retweeted G-Braves Media
#Braves top prospect Jose Peraza getting his first start in CF tonight for @GwinnettBraves.

...

We must really like Peterson. If peraza moves to cf, don't expect a call up anytime soon

[War Machine Dawg]

7:51 PM
Grant McAuley ?@grantmcauley 10s10 seconds ago
Grant McAuley retweeted G-Braves Media
#Braves top prospect Jose Peraza getting his first start in CF tonight for @GwinnettBraves.

...

We must really like Peterson. If peraza moves to cf, don't expect a call up anytime soon

He'll be up by mid-July at worst. I'm betting sooner. I'm guessing we'll try to move CJ, then we'll see some sort of platoon between Uribe and Peterson at 3B.

[msstate7]

He'll be up by mid-July at worst. I'm betting sooner. I'm guessing we'll try to move CJ, then we'll see some sort of platoon between Uribe and Peterson at 3B.

I would absolutely love to trade CJ.

Eury Perez has been a good cf (around .300 and 20+ sb's). Playing peraza in cf is very interesting to me. Could be a long term move if he can play it. Of course there's Mallex smith in AA who looks like a nice option in cf, so who knows?

[msstate7]

FF has struck out 6 of last 7 at bats. Last 11 games...

.195 avg 0 hr 17 k's 4 bb

This is his 2nd really long cold streak this year. Seems FF has become Justin upton without the hr's... When he's hot, he hits everything. When he's cold, he hits absolutely nothing and k's at an alarming rate

[msstate7]

I'm really liking folty. After buster posey got him for a 2-run hr in the 1st, folty didn't give up another run and pitched till 2 outs in the 7th against the best offensive team in the nl right now. Here's his line...

6.2 ip 5 h 2 er 1 bb 8 k

In his last inning, he was still throwing 97. This kid is gonna be sick.

[msstate7]

Ready to see how Perez holds up vs the Giants. If we can get another solid start, it will take the sting outta these losses. Here's our starters' numbers in this series so far...

13.2 ip 10 h 3 er 1 bb 9 k 2.05 era

If you look at the road trip, our starters are turning it on besides Teheran. Throw out teheran's line vs Dodgers...

4.1 ip 10 h 8 er 3 bb 1 k

And this is the total line of our other 4 starts...

26.2 ip 24 h 5 er 4 bb 22 k 1.72 era

These guys (starters) are who we're gonna build this team on and they seem to be figuring things out well. If Teheran can come back strong from his terrible outing and the other starters stay solid, I think this road trip was a success regardless if we win another game. I get caught up in the moment and get mad with losses, but games like last night are a great sign of things to come guys.

[trob115]

Folty was actually hitting 98 in his last batter. I think he's just starting to scratch the surface on his potential.

[KB21]

Ready to see how Perez holds up vs the Giants. If we can get another solid start, it will take the sting outta these losses. Here's our starters' numbers in this series so far...

13.2 ip 10 h 3 er 1 bb 9 k 2.05 era

If you look at the road trip, our starters are turning it on besides Teheran. Throw out teheran's line vs Dodgers...

4.1 ip 10 h 8 er 3 bb 1 k

And this is the total line of our other 4 starts...

26.2 ip 24 h 5 er 4 bb 22 k 1.72 era

These guys (starters) are who we're gonna build this team on and they seem to be figuring things out well. If Teheran can come back strong from his terrible outing and the other starters stay solid, I think this road trip was a success regardless if we win another game. I get caught up in the moment and get mad with losses, but games like last night are a great sign of things to come guys.

Would you believe there are some advocating moving Foltynewicz for a position prospect? Fans, that is. No one in the Braves organization thinks that way.

[msstate7]

Would you believe there are some advocating moving Foltynewicz for a position prospect? Fans, that is. No one in the Braves organization thinks that way.

Hell no. This guy seems to be figuring out his control. He's gonna be an absolute stud if he stays healthy

[msstate7]

Folty was actually hitting 98 in his last batter. I think he's just starting to scratch the surface on his potential.

Slighted my man, huh? Haha

Yeah, I'm loving him.

[msstate7]

Perez is the one I'm most interested in though. I really, really like him. I think he could be our next medlen. He doesn't beat you with power, but he's gritty as hell and just knows how to get guys out. He may or may not be a starter for us long term, but he's at this level to stay imo. Prove me right, Williams

[KB21]

Perez is the one I'm most interested in though. I really, really like him. I think he could be our next medlen. He doesn't beat you with power, but he's gritty as hell and just knows how to get guys out. He may or may not be a starter for us long term, but he's at this level to stay imo. Prove me right, Williams

I think he is a guy who will be a long term long relief/spot starter. I'm really hoping the braves beef up their pitching prospects in this draft. The lower minors needs an influx of talent.

[msstate7]

I think he is a guy who will be a long term long relief/spot starter. I'm really hoping the braves beef up their pitching prospects in this draft. The lower minors needs an influx of talent.

I don't think you have to worry about that with hart. He's always looking for pitching and I like it

[smootness]

I think he is a guy who will be a long term long relief/spot starter. I'm really hoping the braves beef up their pitching prospects in this draft. The lower minors needs an influx of talent.

You keep saying this, but I don't understand it. We have as much pitching talent all throughout the minors as just about any organization in baseball. We have Sanchez in A, Sims and Grosser in A+, and Fulenchek, our top pitcher from last year's draft, hasn't even thrown yet this year. And that doesn't include all the young arms we have in AA, AAA, and Atlanta.

We'll obviously get our share of pitching, but our system is far more barren in terms of legit bats than arms. We have to use some of our top picks on high-upside bats.

I agree on Perez, though. He'll get passed by some of our other pitching prospects before long.

[trob115]

Slighted my man, huh? Haha

Yeah, I'm loving him.

Yeah just busting your balls haha. Hopefully Tehran gets his stuff together and we could be looking at our best complete rotation since the late 90's.

[shoeless joe]

You keep saying this, but I don't understand it. We have as much pitching talent all throughout the minors as just about any organization in baseball. We have Sanchez in A, Sims and Grosser in A+, and Fulenchek, our top pitcher from last year's draft, hasn't even thrown yet this year. And that doesn't include all the young arms we have in AA, AAA, and Atlanta.

We'll obviously get our share of pitching, but our system is far more barren in terms of legit bats than arms. We have to use some of our top picks on high-upside bats.

I agree on Perez, though. He'll get passed by some of our other pitching prospects before long.

IMO high picks should ALMOST always be used in arms. Stockpile the pitchers cuz young pitching can be traded for whatever else the team needs are.

[KB21]

You keep saying this, but I don't understand it. We have as much pitching talent all throughout the minors as just about any organization in baseball. We have Sanchez in A, Sims and Grosser in A+, and Fulenchek, our top pitcher from last year's draft, hasn't even thrown yet this year. And that doesn't include all the young arms we have in AA, AAA, and Atlanta.

We'll obviously get our share of pitching, but our system is far more barren in terms of legit bats than arms. We have to use some of our top picks on high-upside bats.

I agree on Perez, though. He'll get passed by some of our other pitching prospects before long.

You do realize just how slim that is, right? Atlanta is probably in the bottom half of the league when it comes to overall minor league pitching talent.

[smootness]

IMO high picks should ALMOST always be used in arms. Stockpile the pitchers cuz young pitching can be traded for whatever else the team needs are.

This is just not true. Teams like Atlanta who are not major-market teams have to rely on their farm system for most of their talent at all positions. You can't rely on trades to bring in all of your bats.

Look at what teams like the Cubs and Red Sox are doing. Hitting is at a premium all around baseball right now. If you don't have much of it, you're at a big disadvantage.

I'm all for drafting arms, but it has to be balanced, especially given the current state of our system.

[smootness]

You do realize just how slim that is, right? Atlanta is probably in the bottom half of the league when it comes to overall minor league pitching talent.

Hahahaha this is insane. The Braves have a top 5-10 minor league system right now, and that is based almost entirely on our pitching talent.

There aren't any more than 3-5 other systems in baseball who can compare with a list of Folty, Wisler, Banuelos, Jenkins, and Fried in terms of high-upside pitching prospects. And that isn't even taking into account that our top 3 major league arms are all 24 years old.

[msstate7]

6 PM
@KevinMcAlpin
#Braves have signed catcher Ryan Lavarnway to a Minor League deal. He will be assigned to Gwinnett.

[KB21]

The Braves have 1 pitcher in their system right now that is considered to be a top 100 prospect in baseball. Matt Wisler.

Lucas Sims has fallen out, and he is by far the best prospect they have in the lower levels.

[dawgs]

This is just not true. Teams like Atlanta who are not major-market teams have to rely on their farm system for most of their talent at all positions. You can't rely on trades to bring in all of your bats.

Look at what teams like the Cubs and Red Sox are doing. Hitting is at a premium all around baseball right now. If you don't have much of it, you're at a big disadvantage.

I'm all for drafting arms, but it has to be balanced, especially given the current state of our system.

atlanta isn't a NY or chicago or LA or SF or boston, but they are every bit the market or better than pretty much everyone else in baseball. they just choose not to behave like it. no one to blame there but your own management.

but yeah, epstein immediately started hoarding high ceiling bats when he took over the cubs GM spot because it's harder than ever to find bats. you can find plenty of relatively low ceiling guys that'll give you a <4.00 era with a chance for <3.50 with the right breaks these days. they are everywhere.

[msstate7]

7:10 PM
Toscano Update:
?@mlbbowman
Dian Toscano is working out at the #Braves' ST complex. Will start playing Minor Lg. games after completion of some administrative issues

[msstate7]

atlanta isn't a NY or chicago or LA or SF or boston, but they are every bit the market or better than pretty much everyone else in baseball. they just choose not to behave like it. no one to blame there but your own management.

but yeah, epstein immediately started hoarding high ceiling bats when he took over the cubs GM spot because it's harder than ever to find bats. you can find plenty of relatively low ceiling guys that'll give you a <4.00 era with a chance for <3.50 with the right breaks these days. they are everywhere.

I'm hoping when the new stadium opens that liberty media will open up the pocket book more. My real hope is that liberty media will sell the Braves to Arthur blanks

[msstate7]

Looking ahead to '16 bullpen...

Cunniff
Avilan
Withrow -- setup/closer
Simmons -- setup/closer

I figure these 4 are pretty certain.

What about mckirahan? Will he back on the team?

Surely we trade Jim Johnson and grilli.

Vizcaino?

Any reason to think the bullpen will be better next season?

[smootness]

The Braves have 1 pitcher in their system right now that is considered to be a top 100 prospect in baseball. Matt Wisler.

Lucas Sims has fallen out, and he is by far the best prospect they have in the lower levels.

Wrong. Folty was top 100 before the season. Fried has been top 100, around 50-60, and will be again, he's just recovering from surgery.

Banuelos was top 20 at one time and could see himself back in the top 100 at the midsession mark based on the way he's pitched this year. Jenkins should be knocking on the door. And Sanchez is 18 and was already the Angels' #1 prospect when we traded for him. He could easily find himself in the top 100 in a year or two.

Sims is not a better prospect than Sanchez, not anymore at least. And Sims himself was still top 100 by Baseball Prospectus and MLB.com before this season.

Give me 5 other organizations in baseball with 4 top 100 pitching prospects, 1 more that has been in the past and could be again, and 2 more on top of that who are knocking on the door.

[smootness]

atlanta isn't a NY or chicago or LA or SF or boston, but they are every bit the market or better than pretty much everyone else in baseball. they just choose not to behave like it. no one to blame there but your own management.

but yeah, epstein immediately started hoarding high ceiling bats when he took over the cubs GM spot because it's harder than ever to find bats. you can find plenty of relatively low ceiling guys that'll give you a <4.00 era with a chance for <3.50 with the right breaks these days. they are everywhere.

When I say Atlanta is not a major market, in baseball terms, I'm talking about payroll. Yes, our payroll is lower than the Atlanta market might suggest, but that doesn't help in evaluating the resources the Braves have available and the kind of moves they can make.

I'm not talking about who to blame; this is just the reality. With current ownership and budget stipulations, we can't be a major player for big-time free agents. Therefore, we simply have to build from within.

[smootness]

Looking ahead to '16 bullpen...

Cunniff
Avilan
Withrow -- setup/closer
Simmons -- setup/closer

I figure these 4 are pretty certain.

What about mckirahan? Will he back on the team?

Surely we trade Jim Johnson and grilli.

Vizcaino?

Any reason to think the bullpen will be better next season?

I think there is very good reason to believe it will be better. We will probably trade Grilli but could bring him back.

Vizcaino should be healthy and will be a big boost, along with Simmons. Those are two legit back-end arms. With row will hopefully be back, along with Winkler. Then you may see us move a guy like Banuelos there, at least temporarily. And I think it's a matter of time before Hursh, with his 100-mph fastball, is moved to the bullpen.

I doubt Cunniff will be there; he just walks too many. If he is, we have a problem.

I would be excited about:
Winkler
Banuelos
Withrow
Avilan
Vizcaino
Simmons
Grilli

But Banuelos and Grilli aren't likely to be there.

[msstate7]

I think there is very good reason to believe it will be better. We will probably trade Grilli but could bring him back.

Vizcaino should be healthy and will be a big boost, along with Simmons. Those are two legit back-end arms. With row will hopefully be back, along with Winkler. Then you may see us move a guy like Banuelos there, at least temporarily. And I think it's a matter of time before Hursh, with his 100-mph fastball, is moved to the bullpen.

I doubt Cunniff will be there; he just walks too many. If he is, we have a problem.

I would be excited about:
Winkler
Banuelos
Withrow
Avilan
Vizcaino
Simmons
Grilli

But Banuelos and Grilli aren't likely to be there.

I see some value in cunniff. He's very tough on rh batters.

Might not be a bad idea to keep Johnson or grilli if we feel we've got a shot at postseason next year. I certainly wouldn't just give both away for nothing

[msstate7]

Wisler today...
8.1 ip 2 h 0 er 2 bb 7 k
Season era now 3.58

Peraza with another cf start

David carpenter (not that one) got the save today.

David carpenter season stats...
0.84 era 21.1 ip 15 h 9 h 19 k
.200 opp avg 1.13 whip

Anyone know anything about carpenter? Is he a prospect?

[msstate7]

Terdoslavich got a double and an rbi for Carolina mudcats today. Would love to see him in lf for us soon

[msstate7]

Albies got a double and an rbi today. Season stats...
.288 avg .354 obp .720 ops
20 sb

Davidson had 2 hits including a double and an rbi. Season stats...
.240 avg .381 obp .737 ops 4 hr

[smootness]

Albies got a double and an rbi today. Season stats...
.288 avg .354 obp .720 ops
20 sb

Davidson had 2 hits including a double and an rbi. Season stats...
.240 avg .381 obp .737 ops 4 hr

These stats don't include today's' games, just for the record. Davidson is up to .253.

Phenomenal stuff from Wisler lately.

[msstate7]

These stats don't include today's' games, just for the record. Davidson is up to .253.


You're right. My bad

[msstate7]

Maybin with 16 rbi's in May. He had 15 all last season. Maybin is really playing well

[smootness]

You're right. My bad

Don't ever do it again.

[smootness]

Looks like his line is now .248/.389/.369. Pretty good for an 18-year-old kid, especially his walk rate. If the power comes a little more, and it should, then this is exactly what you want from him. Especially after a rough start to the year.

[msstate7]

Looks like his line is now .248/.389/.369. Pretty good for an 18-year-old kid, especially his walk rate. If the power comes a little more, and it should, then this is exactly what you want from him. Especially after a rough start to the year.

He's so young that I can't say for certain, but he seems to have trade written all over him with Peterson, Simmons, and peraza (may be cf though)

[msstate7]

@mlbbowman
This is Jace Peterson's first multi-hit game since May 21, but he now has nine dating back to May 4. #Braves

[msstate7]

1:32 PM
@mlbbowman
Perez has retired 11 of the 13 batters he's faced since allowing three of the first six batters he faced to reach safely.

[smootness]

He's so young that I can't say for certain, but he seems to have trade written all over him with Peterson, Simmons, and peraza (may be cf though)

Sorry, that line was Davidson's. Albies is hitting .290 with a .361 OBP. I do NOT want to trade Albies. At all. He has the most potential of that group, by far.

If anyone you trade Peterson, who's been decent but nothing more. You don't trade away your future stud because your super utility player is blocking him.

[msstate7]

Sorry, that line was Davidson's. Albies is hitting .290 with a .361 OBP. I do NOT want to trade Albies. At all. He has the most potential of that group, by far.

If anyone you trade Peterson, who's been decent but nothing more. You don't trade away your future stud because your super utility player is blocking him.

I knew the line was Davidson, but was thinking albies for some reason.

About Peterson... He's a rookie, so I wouldn't say he's peaked. We must think he's a little better than decent to be experimenting with a position change with our best prospect

[smootness]

I know Peterson is a rookie, but his ceiling isn't much higher than what he's doing now. Albies is just a far better prospect.

I don't like the move of Peraza to CF, either. I'd rather us try to shift Peterson out there than mess with Peraza.

[msstate7]

I know Peterson is a rookie, but his ceiling isn't much higher than what he's doing now. Albies is just a far better prospect.

I don't like the move of Peraza to CF, either. I'd rather us try to shift Peterson out there than mess with Peraza.

Think it may have as much to do with defense as it does with Peterson to tell the truth. Pretty sure I read peraza has 9 errors already this year

[smootness]

Think it may have as much to do with defense as it does with Peterson to tell the truth. Pretty sure I read peraza has 9 errors already this year

I'm not too worried with the errors. Simmons had something like 28 the year before he was called up.

It is interesting, though. Peraza was supposed to be the better player defensively of the two (both were projected a little above-average) but Peterson has far exceeded expectations there. If he can keep providing that defense and getting on base, then he has value. I just worry that he may not ultimately hit enough, and he doesn't have any power right now.

If Peraza can play CF well, then great, though that would then block Mallex Smith.

Ideally, if everyone hit their ceiling, I would want Peraza at second, Mallex in center, and Peterson playing the super ultility role. But I'm not opposed to a trade, we just need to be careful and be certain before we make a move that we're not giving up the better player, no matter who it is.

[msstate7]

Williams Perez since he started starting...

Vs TB...
5.0 ip 7 k 1 er 1 bb 7 h

Vs LAD...
6.0 ip 7 k 1 er 1 bb 6 h

Vs SF...
7.0 ip 3 k 0 er 4 bb 4 h

Totals...
18.0 ip 17 k 2 er 6 bb 17 h

That's a cool 1.00 era vs 2 second place teams and a first place team.

Keep sleeping on my boy, Perez

[msstate7]

I'm not too worried with the errors. Simmons had something like 28 the year before he was called up.

It is interesting, though. Peraza was supposed to be the better player defensively of the two (both were projected a little above-average) but Peterson has far exceeded expectations there. If he can keep providing that defense and getting on base, then he has value. I just worry that he may not ultimately hit enough, and he doesn't have any power right now.

If Peraza can play CF well, then great, though that would then block Mallex Smith.

Ideally, if everyone hit their ceiling, I would want Peraza at second, Mallex in center, and Peterson playing the super ultility role. But I'm not opposed to a trade, we just need to be careful and be certain before we make a move that we're not giving up the better player, no matter who it is.

Saw Mallex last night in pearl. He is lightning fast, but jeez he's swings and misses a ton. He k'd twice, but that doesn't tell the whole story. He missed a lot... Not many foul offs, just plain misses. He needs to fix that. He did get the GW rbi on a hit although it was a gift... Shoulda been a FC rbi.

[smootness]

Haha I like Williams, he battles and has a bit of attitude. I just don't expect him to stick long-term. But by all means, I hope he keeps this up and proves me wrong.

[smootness]

I'm pretty sure you just caught Mallex on a bad night. People questioned his bat, but he's hit at every level, his K rate isn't anything bad, and he always walks a lot.

So far he's showing himself to be the perfect lead off hitter.

[msstate7]

Haha I like Williams, he battles and has a bit of attitude. I just don't expect him to stick long-term. But by all means, I hope he keeps this up and proves me wrong.

I think it will be tough for him to hold off wisler, fried, and maybe Jenkins next year, but I like him a lot. If nothing else, I see him as a nice reliever or trade piece. Who knows we may end up trading Teheran if he doesn't right the ship to open another starting spot

[msstate7]

I'm pretty sure you just caught Mallex on a bad night. People questioned his bat, but he's hit at every level, his K rate isn't anything bad, and he always walks a lot.

So far he's showing himself to be the perfect lead off hitter.

One things for certain... He Can Fly! He popped up a ball to short right and was rounding 2nd when the ball was caught. You'd have to have been there to understand, but it was impressive esp considering it was a certain out.

[smootness]

One things for certain... He Can Fly! He popped up a ball to short right and was rounding 2nd when the ball was caught. You'd have to have been there to understand, but it was impressive esp considering it was a certain out.

Yeah, I've heard that outside of Billy Hamilton, there's nobody in all of baseball faster.

The good thing is, he's a great drag hunter and gets quite a lot of hits this way. Obviously he won't get as many in the majors, but it can still be a weapon.

[msstate7]

Talking about albies being young at 18 reminded me of andruw (my favorite brave ever) hitting a hr at 19 vs the Yankees. Wonder if albies can be that type of prodigy and make the show before age 20

[smootness]

Talking about albies being young at 18 reminded me of andruw (my favorite brave ever) hitting a hr at 19 vs the Yankees. Wonder if albies can be that type of prodigy and make the show before age 20

We'll see, he'll have a chance to advance quickly next year.

But I doubt it. He's a great talent, but he's no Andruw. And he's tiny, just a totally different player.

[msstate7]

Peterson with single, double, and triple. Won't develop into a hr hitter, but I can certainly see a lot of doubles in his future

[smootness]

Peterson with single, double, and triple. Won't develop into a hr hitter, but I can certainly see a lot of doubles in his future

That would be awesome.

[msstate7]

This is a big if, but if Teheran can get the win tomorrow, we have a great shot at getting home over .500 with wood, miller, and folty facing Arizona. Big game tomorrow

[msstate7]

With bumgarner pitching tomorrow, I'd sit ff tomorrow. He's really struggling. Start CJ at 1st. CJ hits lefties well and uribe's swing looked great tonight

[msstate7]

You guys can rip me all you want, but Teheran is done. I'd trade him asap before he absolutely worthless.

[msstate7]

1st time thru Giants' lineup for Teheran...

2 bb 2 hr's (another 1 was just foul and belt hit 1 foul before hitting 1 fair)

His velocity is down.

May be time to panic

[msstate7]

gondeee ?@gondeee 12s13 seconds ago
Braves may have accidentally included Teheran's velocity in a trade last offseason.

[msstate7]

Aaron Smith @A_A_ron_Smith
@DOBrienAJC I'm thinking he has Tommy John in his near future. Hate to say it. But it has all the symptoms.

[KB21]

Teheran's drop in velocity has coincided with the game he tweaked his knee on the mound. He's hurt. This isn't an arm issue. He's lost velocity because he can't drive off his legs right now. It's time to DL him and get an MRI of that knee.

[KB21]

Aaron Smith @A_A_ron_Smith
@DOBrienAJC I'm thinking he has Tommy John in his near future. Hate to say it. But it has all the symptoms.

It's not an arm problem. He's not dropping his arm slot to compensate if it is. I could always tell when Smoltz was hurting because he would drop his arm slot to take the pressure off his arm. This is his knee. Julio can deny it all he wants, but that knee is effecting him. He needs to get an MRI to see if there is a meniscus tear, and if their is, get it fixed and sit out for the next 4 weeks. Bring up Manny Banuelos or Matt Wisler.

[msstate7]

It's not an arm problem. He's not dropping his arm slot to compensate if it is. I could always tell when Smoltz was hurting because he would drop his arm slot to take the pressure off his arm. This is his knee. Julio can deny it all he wants, but that knee is effecting him. He needs to get an MRI to see if there is a meniscus tear, and if their is, get it fixed and sit out for the next 4 weeks. Bring up Manny Banuelos or Matt Wisler.

Julio shouldn't be in charge of this. If we feel his knee is affecting him (I do remember when he tweaked it vs mets), then management needs to step in and order an mri.

[msstate7]

Bumgarner with a no-hitter thru 4. At least Teheran is facing the other team's best pitcher. If we're not gonna win, at least get our worst starter out of the way.

[msstate7]

Teheran seems to be getting control of this game. Lord please let Teheran get this figured out. For us to be the team I want us to be in the future, Teheran needs to at least a solid 3

[msstate7]

Teheran just threw a 92 mph fastball in 5th.

[msstate7]

Way to shut me up, Teheran. I'm still concerned with his velocity, but he certainly turned it up a notch after giving up the 2 hr's. 4 bb and 1 k aren't ideal, but this has certainly been a good start. My apologies, mr Teheran

[msstate7]

Maybe that uribe trade wasn't a bad idea. Uribe with 2-run hr's in back-to-back days

[msstate7]

My God, we have a terrible manager. Teheran had pitched great and had the lead when his spot came up in the 7th with runners on corners. PH FF right there fredi!!!!!!!!!!! Get Teheran out with confidence and perhaps get another run. Instead we let Teheran hit and then take him out after leadoff double with 0 outs. Fredi is dumb as a rock

[msstate7]

Then to compound his dumbness fredi brings in Donnie veal! Veal! You serious fredi? MF'ing veal? Lead gone

[BoomBoom]

My God, we have a terrible manager. Teheran had pitched great and had the lead when his spot came up in the 7th with runners on corners. PH FF right there fredi!!!!!!!!!!! Get Teheran out with confidence and perhaps get another run. Instead we let Teheran hit and then take him out after leadoff double with 0 outs. Fredi is dumb as a rock

beat me to it. but we're close to .500, he's such a great manager............Bullshite. we win in spite of him.

[cbrunt29]

Giants answer with 3 runs in the bottom of the 7th. Ballgame

[trob115]

Fredi is dumb. My wife even commented" what was he thinking leaving Tehran in to hit ?". Ever since playoffs 2 years ago, I have been willing to can him.

[msstate7]

Fredi is dumb. My wife even commented" what was he thinking leaving Tehran in to hit ?". Ever since playoffs 2 years ago, I have been willing to can him.

What compounded the terrible decision to let Teheran hit is FF is on the bench

[msstate7]

Braves last winning month was June last year. Fredi needs to go

[msstate7]

I don't think letting Gomes hit there was near as dumb as the other 2 moves, but dumb nevertheless. Gomes is completely useless vs rhp. Cunningham has been really struggling, but he can hit a fastball. That was a fastball pitcher. I'd much rather have Cunningham ph there. If the pitcher decides to throw offspeed then he's not throwing his best pitch. If he throws fastball, Cunningham can turn it around. Cunningham just can't hit anything other than a fastball

[msstate7]

Veal had an 11.25 era coming into this game. I just don't understand how that move didn't work*

[msstate7]

Oh and on that whole 7th inning situation... We pulled CJ for defense, but left Gomes in lf even though Teheran has been giving up fly balls. Cunningham runs that double down

[msstate7]

Good thing FF's hr is in the 9th down 2 instead of runners on corners in 7th

[msstate7]

My man, peterson

[shoeless joe]

Bochy must suck at baseball managing too!!***

[msstate7]

Bochy must suck at baseball managing too!!***

He did screw up not bringing in lhp to face Peterson.

I can guarantee you though, he'd have ph for Teheran.

[msstate7]

Shoeless... You think letting Teheran hit, bringing in veal, and not subbing Cunningham in lf were good moves?

[shoeless joe]

He did screw up not bringing in lhp to face Peterson.

I can guarantee you though, he'd have ph for Teheran.

If petersen doesn't triple then he didn't screw up...if Crawford doesn't boot the grounder it's a moot point anyhow.

And I'm not trying to defend fredi, I'm on record as saying i could go either way there, but questioning baseball decisions after the fact is the most obvious cop out IMO because any decision that doesn't work can be questioned.

[Dawg61]

Love Crawford but that's the worst error I've ever seen him have

[msstate7]

If petersen doesn't triple then he didn't screw up...if Crawford doesn't boot the grounder it's a moot point anyhow.

And I'm not trying to defend fredi, I'm on record as saying i could go either way there, but questioning baseball decisions after the fact is the most obvious cop out IMO because any decision that doesn't work can be questioned.

Well me and about 50 other brave fans were raising hell on Braves' message board before the disaster. It was beyond a bad move.

[msstate7]

After 50 games, we're at .500, 3 games out of 1st, and 2.5 out of WC. If this team had 2 more relievers, we might be in 1st place.

[shoeless joe]

Well me and about 50 other brave fans were raising hell on Braves' message board before the disaster. It was beyond a bad move.

Fair enough.

I didn't even turn the game on til the 8th but apparently Teheran had a good game. Take the series from Arizona and this could be a huge road trip for the remainder of the season.

[msstate7]

Fair enough.

I didn't even turn the game on til the 8th but apparently Teheran had a good game. Take the series from Arizona and this could be a huge road trip for the remainder of the season.

Wood, miller, and folty on the bump vs Arizona. If we get home above .500, it could be a huge confidence builder for this team.

Teheran certainly settled down. 4 bb, 1 k, and velocity down are concerning, but can't argue with results

[shoeless joe]

Shoeless... You think letting Teheran hit, bringing in veal, and not subbing Cunningham in lf were good moves?

Like I said, I didn't see that sequence. Of all the things you listed I think bringing in veal was worse than leaving in Teheran with the lead. I do understand wanting to get an extra inning or two out of him, knowing the struggles and over use of certain relief guys. But again I didn't see Teheran throw one pitch so I don't know what his last couple innings looked like to use as a gauge and inform my opinion.

[msstate7]

Like I said, I didn't see that sequence. Of all the things you listed I think bringing in veal was worse than leaving in Teheran with the lead. I do understand wanting to get an extra inning or two out of him, knowing the struggles and over use of certain relief guys. But again I didn't see Teheran throw one pitch so I don't know what his last couple innings looked like to use as a gauge and inform my opinion.

Ok with the bullpen, I'll forgive fredi (not really, but for argument sake) for leaving in Teheran. Why not sub Cunningham in left though with Teheran giving up a ton of fly balls? Fredi subbed FF for CJ at 1b, which I agreed with. Leaving Gomes in left was dumb esp considering he misplayed a ball already, but dove and caught it. Really believe Cunningham runs that double down making all this all meaningless

[KB21]

I'll be honest. I'm not a big Fredi fan, but the constant criticism he gets is amusing when this team is right around .500 and is a team that most expected would be a 100 loss team this year. Fredi and this team have surpassed their expectations to this point.

[shoeless joe]

Ok with the bullpen, I'll forgive fredi (not really, but for argument sake) for leaving in Teheran. Why not sub Cunningham in left though with Teheran giving up a ton of fly balls? Fredi subbed FF for CJ at 1b, which I agreed with. Leaving Gomes in left was dumb esp considering he misplayed a ball already, but dove and caught it. Really believe Cunningham runs that double down making all this all meaningless

Good questions.

My point is not to defend fredi...but, I guess, to defend all managers. Hind sight is 20-20 and it's always easy to go back and say what decision should have been made.

I can go back and question decisions made by bobby that were questionable from the 91 series all the way to pulling kimbrel to let Dunn face Aubrey huff. None of that means he isn't a HOF manager, in fact it shows the "6 of one, half a dozen of the other" nature of the game. Individual players have to make plays for any move to be a good one.

[msstate7]

I'll be honest. I'm not a big Fredi fan, but the constant criticism he gets is amusing when this team is right around .500 and is a team that most expected would be a 100 loss team this year. Fredi and this team have surpassed their expectations to this point.

Fredi deserves some credit for that, but the lion's share of credit is hart's. Fredi didn't acquire Peterson, Maybin, miller, grilli, Jim Johnson, etc while also building for the future. Hart is the man

[KB21]

Fredi deserves some credit for that, but the lion's share of credit is hart's. Fredi didn't acquire Peterson, Maybin, miller, grilli, Jim Johnson, etc while also building for the future. Hart is the man

No, but it you listen to the criticism by fans on Braves message boards, Fredi will find a way to screw things up. In the long run, managers have very little control over the outcome of the games.

[msstate7]

:55 PM
@DOBrienAJC
Not to be trite or harsh, but it seems inevitable the #Braves will cut the Veal. Nice guy, but just overmatched.

[msstate7]

@DOBrienAJC
#Braves Fredi on Teheran: "I think he?s OK health-wise, I think it?s just a matter of the game plan, or the way he?s executing his pitches."

#Braves Fredi G on Teheran: "I know his line looks pretty good, but I just didn?t feel comfortable the whole game, to tell you the truth."

...
Yet he left Teheran in to hit for himself with FF on the bench

[msstate7]

9:38 PM
@DOBrienAJC
#Braves Peterson .303 (36-for-119) with .370 OBP, 6 extra-base hits (2 triples, 1 HR), 19 RBIs in past 32 games, w/ 13 BB, 17 K.

[msstate7]

Wisler Wins Second IL Pitcher of the Week Award
He went 1-0 and did not allow a run in 10.1 innings from May 25-31

http://www.milb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20150601&content_id=127894618&fext=.jsp&vkey=news_t431&sid=t431

[War Machine Dawg]

Teheran's velo being down is a huge concern. He's supposed to be between 92-94 not 86-88. I still say there's some sort of injury that's either undiagnosed or undisclosed for some reason. That's a significant dip for a guy Fredi is still claiming isn't hurt.

[msstate7]

@BravesReddit
(Wisler) Finished May w/1.78 ERA, 0.8774 WHIP, BAA of .197 and gave up just 6 BB in 6G while striking out 26.

[msstate7]

Veal dfa'd

Cody Martin recalled

[msstate7]

2:19 PM
@DOBrienAJC
Don't forget, #Braves could have a nice add to bullpen in Moylan. He could be close.

[msstate7]

@rcatlfins24 don't know how sharp they'll be but vizcaino and Mckirahan come off suspension early in July

@DOBrienAJC
Supposedly throwing very well in extended spring training. Least that's word from Braves officials who've seen them.

[cbrunt29]

Playing well so far tonight. Braves lead 5-0 in the 5th

[msstate7]

@mbraves
.@Braves @JoeTerdoslavich to rehab at Double-A Mississippi Wednesday - Friday http://atmilb.com/1daYCp0 #MBraves @mbraves

[msstate7]

Peterson with another double and rbi vs a lefty. Peterson has 22 rbi's this year. Really like this kid

[Really Clark?]

Wood pitching well again as well. Really liking our starting rotation potential.

[msstate7]

Wood pitching well again as well. Really liking our starting rotation potential.

Oh and it just so happens we have the youngest (avg of age) staff in mlb, 2 prospects (wisler and banuelos) knocking on the door, and maybe the best 2 prospects (fried and Jenkins) probably making a push next season.

Got to solve the bullpen. Really interested in mckirahan and vizcaino when they return in July. Next year, Simmons and withrow will certainly help. I think the bullpen bounces back starting around July with mckirahan and vizcaino. Then it really picks it up next year with Simmons, withrow, and lots of money to spend this offseason.

I think we ride this staff to at least a WC next season and fight with the mets in '17 for the division

[msstate7]

@KevinMcAlpin
Peter Moylan activated from Rome?s DL and promoted to Gwinnett. #Braves

Really pulling for him bc we need a reliever and bc I really like him

[War Machine Dawg]

@KevinMcAlpin
Peter Moylan activated from Rome?s DL and promoted to Gwinnett. #Braves

Really pulling for him bc we need a reliever and bc I really like him

Love Moylan. Hopefully the injuries haven't degraded his stuff too much. Dude has one of the coolest pitcher entrance songs in the majors - TNT by AC/DC.

And I never thought I'd say this, but I can't wait for KJ to come off the DL. Cunningham can't hit and isn't ready.

[smootness]

Love Moylan. Hopefully the injuries haven't degraded his stuff too much. Dude has one of the coolest pitcher entrance songs in the majors - TNT by AC/DC.

And I never thought I'd say this, but I can't wait for KJ to come off the DL. Cunningham can't hit and isn't ready.

2 hits tonight. I like what Cunningham brings to the table. EY Jr is the guy who should be sent down. Him or Ciriaco.

[KB21]

This bullpen is terrible. Just terrible. Fredi has no one he can go to and count on.

[msstate7]

This bullpen is terrible. Just terrible. Fredi has no one he can go to and count on.

I agree. I do think fredi should've pulled cunniff after he faced the 2 right handers in 7th and brought avilan to face inciarte. I don't think it was a huge mistake, but a mistake. If avilan gets inciarte, you've got Johnson for 8th and grilli for 9th

[msstate7]

2 hits tonight. I like what Cunningham brings to the table. EY Jr is the guy who should be sent down. Him or Ciriaco.

Make it 3 and some really good defense. Yeah, EY should get dfa

[msstate7]

Tough loss...

Wanna see Ryan Kelly and moylan up by this weekend. Flip a coin between Masset, cunniff, and Martin to send down

[msstate7]

As you guys know I love Perez, but we may have to move him to the pen and call up wisler. I'd rather give moylan and Ryan Kelly a shot first, but we may have no choice

[KB21]

This team needs another lefty they can use out of the pen. Avilan's arm is going to fall off. Remember the days when we had Johnny Venter and Eric O'Flaherty as left handed relievers?

[msstate7]

This team needs another lefty they can use out of the pen. Avilan's arm is going to fall off. Remember the days when we had Johnny Venter and Eric O'Flaherty as left handed relievers?

Yes, I do. You know oflaherty just came off dl for a's. I wonder how expensive it would be to get him.

Mckirahan comes back early July along with vizcaino. If we can stay afloat till then, they might could stabilize the pen.

Really hoping either/or or both of moylan and Ryan Kelly work out. I think you'll see both very soon

[msstate7]

David carpenter dfa'd by Yankees. Pick him up, hart. He's certainly worth a shot

[msstate7]

Runners on the corners with 1 out and Cunningham up. Fredi pulls him for Gomes. Gomes pops up. Cunningham has 5 hits the last 2 days. Defend fredi....

[msstate7]

Then Gomes can't get to bell that Cunningham gets easily. Fredi is beyond stupid

[msstate7]

Then fredi goes and gets Gomes. Too late idiot

[msstate7]

Bout to lose bc another dumb dumb dumb decision by fredi. Cunningham is 5-6. Gomes hits .200 and is a major defensive liability

[trob115]

Fredi's gonna Fredi.

[shoeless joe]

Definitely Fredi's fault that the pen can't hold a lead

[msstate7]

Definitely Fredi's fault that the pen can't hold a lead

I'm not blaming fredi for the pen. I am blaming fredi for pulling our best defensive and hottest hitting lf, Cunningham (5 for his last 6) and replacing him with a guy hitting .200 that's our worst defensive of. I know you're a huge fredi apologist, but can you pull off your fredi sunglasses long enough to see how incredibly dumb that was? I was mad pre-results, but absolutely incensed post-results.

Gomes infield pop up then can't get ball that Cunningham could've jogged to. Even if Cunningham doesn't knock in a runner hitting, we probably still win if that out is recorded to start 7th. Oh and even fredi realized how stupid it was bc he pulled Gomes after Gomes blew that catch.

[msstate7]

Fredi's last few years, we had no versatility with the lineup and a very good bullpen. Now that we have so many options when it comes to playing different guys at positions and a poor bullpen, managerial moves are magnified. Fredi just doesn't make good decisions

[BoomBoom]

Fredi's last few years, we had no versatility with the lineup and a very good bullpen. Now that we have so many options when it comes to playing different guys at positions and a poor bullpen, managerial moves are magnified. Fredi just doesn't make good decisions

Fredi believes in having multiple 1-inning guys in the bullpen. He slots guys into an inning. He doesn't adjust that for matchups. When he had O'Ventbrel it worked. Now that he has 2 decent guys and that's it, matchups become extremely important. Using your 2 decent relievers in the 6th or 7th when a couple are on and the meat of the lineup is up, rather than using the back of your bullpen in that dangerous situation and saving your good relievers for the bottom of the lineup with no one one, can make a huge difference. you can call that a meaningless difference, but i don't. He actually broke that pattern today, brought in Avilan to get the last out in the 6th, started the 7th with Martin, then brought in Johnson when Martin had put a couple people on. Johnson just didn't deliver. So i don't blame Fredi for the bullpen management today, but the position shifts were stupid as msstate7 has documented.

[smootness]

But why pull Avilan instead of letting him come back out for the 7th? He threw 4 pitches.

[Really Clark?]

But why pull Avilan instead of letting him come back out for the 7th? He threw 4 pitches.

Their three best hitters were up R, R, R. And isn't Pollock hitting lefties .378 or something. Goldshm...is killing both. I like the Tomas matchup as he has struggled more with lefties. But I would not want to go through the other two to get to him and he was killing it today. Maybe maybe you chance it with Pollock but not past him.

[msstate7]

@DOBrienAJC
#Braves are trying to trade for reliever(s), but won't give up young talent or pay big $ to do it.

[shoeless joe]

I'm not blaming fredi for the pen. I am blaming fredi for pulling our best defensive and hottest hitting lf, Cunningham (5 for his last 6) and replacing him with a guy hitting .200 that's our worst defensive of. I know you're a huge fredi apologist, but can you pull off your fredi sunglasses long enough to see how incredibly dumb that was? I was mad pre-results, but absolutely incensed post-results.

Gomes infield pop up then can't get ball that Cunningham could've jogged to. Even if Cunningham doesn't knock in a runner hitting, we probably still win if that out is recorded to start 7th. Oh and even fredi realized how stupid it was bc he pulled Gomes after Gomes blew that catch.

The main thing in your post that I disagree with is saying that I'm a fredi apologist...I'm a realist that does see things from a coach's point of view; so I am a little more apt to defend the thought process even if I wouldn't have made the same move.

My only point is that if the pen does their job then his other decisions, good or bad, don't matter. I agree with your reasoning as to why you didn't like the moves. However, I do think that you watch the games from the stand point of "what can I get pissed off at fredi about today?". Players, pitchers, hitters have to make plays when given the opportunity.

I've said this in the Cohen threads and I'll say it here; show me a bad bullpen and I'll show you a "bad" manager.

[msstate7]

The main thing in your post that I disagree with is saying that I'm a fredi apologist...I'm a realist that does see things from a coach's point of view; so I am a little more apt to defend the thought process even if I wouldn't have made the same move.

My only point is that if the pen does their job then his other decisions, good or bad, don't matter. I agree with your reasoning as to why you didn't like the moves. However, I do think that you watch the games from the stand point of "what can I get pissed off at fredi about today?". Players, pitchers, hitters have to make plays when given the opportunity.

I've said this in the Cohen threads and I'll say it here; show me a bad bullpen and I'll show you a "bad" manager.

Nah, I don't watch the games wanting to get mad at fredi. I just don't think fredi is that good. Our bullpen is terrible, so they need every bit of help they can get like getting the best defenders in the game when we have a late lead. Even if fredi wanted to ph Gomes, he can't let Gomes stay in lf with EY on the bench. Replacing Gomes after he blew an easy out is just evidence that fredi is way in over his head

[msstate7]

Braves Seeking Bullpen Upgrades
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2015/06/braves-seeking-bullpen-upgrades.html

The Braves are trying to trade for upgrades in what has been a shaky bullpen, reports David O?Brien of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution (via Twitter), but the team is reluctant to part with young talent or pay significant money in order to make it happen.

Clearly, that hesitance will make it rather difficult to procure a meaningful upgrade by way of trade. The Braves? farm system has improved rapidly over the past eight months thanks in large part to a strong offseason rebuilding effort from new president of baseball operations John Hart. It?s logical that Hart, having only recently collected so much minor league talent, would be loath to part with meaningful future assets when his goal has seemingly been to build a sustainable core for the future as opposed to putting an immediate contender on the field.

Nevertheless, the Braves are just one game under .500 after today?s loss to the Diamondbacks ? a loss, mind you, that was incurred when the bullpen failed to protect a two-run lead over the game?s final three innings. With a collective bullpen ERA of 4.71 (worst in the Majors), it?s easy to make the argument that with a more effective relief corps, the Braves could be vying for a share of the NL East division lead. They are, after all, just three games out of first despite having traded Jason Heyward, Justin Upton, Evan Gattis, Craig Kimbrel and David Carpenter this offseason.

Carpenter, for what it?s worth, was designated for assignment by the Yankees just today, making him a plausible target for the Braves to re-acquire if they feel a reunion with pitching coach Roger McDowell can sort out the troubles that he incurred in New York. Carpenter yielded 10 earned runs in 18 2/3 innings with the Yankees and saw his strong K/9 rate nearly halved while his walk rate went in the other direction. He did maintain his velocity, however, and he?s earning a reasonable $1.275MM salary, of which about $864K remains. Relievers Sergio Santos and David Huff are also in DFA limbo, though neither has had any sort of consistent track record in recent years.

If the Braves are simply looking for fresh arms, they could also consider exploring a group of pitchers that have recently opted out of their contracts. Juan Gutierrez, Robert Coello and Dana Eveland all come with varying degrees of MLB experience (Gutierrez and Eveland have significantly more than Coello), and veteran David Aardsma may or may not opt out of his Dodgers contract once the team?s 72-hour window to add him to the 25-man roster expires tomorrow.

Beyond these names, it is admittedly difficult to conjure up realistic possibilities given O?Brien?s stated restrictions. While the Phillies and Brewers are a pair of very likely sellers this summer, the obvious trade candidates on each club ? Jonathan Papelbon, Francisco Rodriguez, Jonathan Broxton ? all come with considerable financial commitments. Despite the fact that it?s difficult to envision a scenario in which the team can successfully upgrade the bullpen while parting with little value, it?s telling that the team is even thinking in terms of adding assets. Entering the season, most pundits (myself included) pegged the Braves as an eventual seller, but for the time being, that doesn?t seem to be the direction in which they?re headed.

[msstate7]

If the bullpen holds onto the 2-run leads the last 2 nights, we'd be 1 game out of first in the east.

I don't wanna sell of the future, but I wanna try to do something. This team has a chance to compete this year with a decent pen (we're worst in mlb). I'd pick up carpenter, bring up Ryan Kelly, and bring up moylan. Hopefully that tandem can get us to mckirahan and vizcaino (early July)

[msstate7]

I wish the Braves would ask about lucroy again. I'd love to see a trade that involves these players (sure there would be others to balance out)...

Braves get lucroy and will smith (very good lh reliever)

Brewers get Teheran

This move would help us short term and long term. Plug lucroy between FF and markakis and this lineup becomes quite formidable.

[trob115]

I wish the Braves would ask about lucroy again. I'd love to see a trade that involves these players (sure there would be others to balance out)...

Braves get lucroy and will smith (very good lh reliever)

Brewers get Teheran

This move would help us short term and long term. Plug lucroy between FF and markakis and this lineup becomes quite formidable.

In a dream scenario, that looks to be a decent trade. I like Julio, but I think he's pitching injured. I hope he is able to get back to his last year form.

I don't see us realistically being contenders this year, but it would be interesting if we didn't have so bad of a pen.

[smootness]

I wish the Braves would ask about lucroy again. I'd love to see a trade that involves these players (sure there would be others to balance out)...

Braves get lucroy and will smith (very good lh reliever)

Brewers get Teheran

This move would help us short term and long term. Plug lucroy between FF and markakis and this lineup becomes quite formidable.

Teheran alone wouldn't get us Lucroy, especialy not given his present value. Lucroy is one of the most valuable players in all of baseball, and he's on a team-friendly contract. I seriously doubt the Brewers give him up for anything, but if they do, it's going to take a heck of a lot.

I do want us to make a few small moves to help the bullpen, but as painful as it is to watch, we can't do too much.

[msstate7]

Teheran alone wouldn't get us Lucroy, especialy not given his present value. Lucroy is one of the most valuable players in all of baseball, and he's on a team-friendly contract. I seriously doubt the Brewers give him up for anything, but if they do, it's going to take a heck of a lot.

I do want us to make a few small moves to help the bullpen, but as painful as it is to watch, we can't do too much.

Lucroy isn't exactly tearing it up this year either.

.172 avg .234 obp .459 ops 1 double 1 triple 1 rbi

[smootness]

Lucroy isn't exactly tearing it up this year either.

.172 avg .234 obp .459 ops 1 double 1 triple 1 rbi

He's played in 15 games. His track record says who he is. I seriously doubt the Brewers are concerned about it, which means it will still take a ton to get him from them, if they're willing to part at all.

[msstate7]

He's played in 15 games. His track record says who he is. I seriously doubt the Brewers are concerned about it, which means it will still take a ton to get him from them, if they're willing to part at all.

Which I'm sure the Braves feel the same about Teheran. Teheran has a proven track too. I don't think it will happen in a million years. I was just saying I wish it would

[smootness]

Which I'm sure the Braves feel the same about Teheran. Teheran has a proven track too. I don't think it will happen in a million years. I was just saying I wish it would

True, but it's different with pitchers. And Teheran's velocity is clearly down.

[BoomBoom]

The main thing in your post that I disagree with is saying that I'm a fredi apologist...I'm a realist that does see things from a coach's point of view; so I am a little more apt to defend the thought process even if I wouldn't have made the same move.

My only point is that if the pen does their job then his other decisions, good or bad, don't matter. I agree with your reasoning as to why you didn't like the moves. However, I do think that you watch the games from the stand point of "what can I get pissed off at fredi about today?". Players, pitchers, hitters have to make plays when given the opportunity.

I've said this in the Cohen threads and I'll say it here; show me a bad bullpen and I'll show you a "bad" manager.

in other words no reliever should ever give up a run? isn't that a ridiculous copout?

[BoomBoom]

Lucroy isn't exactly tearing it up this year either.

.172 avg .234 obp .459 ops 1 double 1 triple 1 rbi

that's mostly after missing significant time after injury. probably doesn't have his timing down yet.

[shoeless joe]

in other words no reliever should ever give up a run? isn't that a ridiculous copout?

how the hell did you get that out of what I posted?

Even the best relievers give up runs. But the braves have a bad bullpen. Very few reliable outings from a lot of the guys. Walks galore. If they had even a decent pen they're in 1st place rite now. I don't see how this is even debatable.

[msstate7]

Gotta figure there will be a roster move or 2 today. Not sure about today, but I expect terdoslavich, Ryan Kelly, Peter moylan, and David carpenter (not that one) to get a shot very soon

[trob115]

I hope Moylan gets a shot. I like watching him pitch.

[msstate7]

@Braves
Roster move: OF Joey Terdoslavich reinstated from the 15-day DL & OF Eric Young, Jr. designated for assignment. Terdoslavich wears No. 28.

[BoomBoom]

how the hell did you get that out of what I posted?

Even the best relievers give up runs. But the braves have a bad bullpen. Very few reliable outings from a lot of the guys. Walks galore. If they had even a decent pen they're in 1st place rite now. I don't see how this is even debatable.

"if the pen does its job, his decisions good or bad don't matter".

so, if Fredi puts the worst reliever in the pen into the most challenging relief situation of the game, and he gives up a run, he just "didn't do his job" and it's not Fredi's fault?

[msstate7]

?@mlbbowman
When working with a thin pen, I don't understand the need to insert your "lefty" w/ none on and two outs in the sixth

Bowman even questioning fredi. I'd be willing to bet this is Fredi's last year barring a miraculous playoff run

[msstate7]

Braves cut pirate lead to one run in the 7th and then in the 8th fredi just waves the white flag. Fredi lets Cahill give up 5 hits and 3 runs. Braves then respond to score 2 in the bottom. Hey fredi, it was still a game and then team doesn't quit as easily as you. I want him gone.

[msstate7]

@mlbbowman
The #Braves bullpen ERA currently rests at 5.01. They haven't had a bullpen ERA north of 5.00 since 1990.

[shoeless joe]

"if the pen does its job, his decisions good or bad don't matter".

so, if Fredi puts the worst reliever in the pen into the most challenging relief situation of the game, and he gives up a run, he just "didn't do his job" and it's not Fredi's fault?

Go back and read my post. The "decision" I'm talking about is who/whether to pinch hit with a lead. Who/whether to make a defensive replacement. Bringing in a bad pitcher in a tough spot when you have a better option would absolutely be on fredi. Which is why I questioned one such move in the San Fran series. Fredi's issue is he doesn't have any choice when it comes to the pen. Other than grilli they all suck and are inconsistent. So take your hypothetical bull shit that has nothing to do with what I was talking about somewhere else.

[shoeless joe]

@mlbbowman
The #Braves bullpen ERA currently rests at 5.01. They haven't had a bullpen ERA north of 5.00 since 1990.

This is THE reason the braves aren't in 1st rite now. Let that sink in...

Even with all the "stupid" managerial decisions this year they are a competent bullpen away from leading the division in June.

And let me reiterate, I am indifferent on whether fredi stays or goes. I would not agree with firing him just to fire him but if a better option is realistic and available then make the move. But at the same time I am going to continue to be realistic with where I place blame and to whom I give credit during the season.

[msstate7]

This is THE reason the braves aren't in 1st rite now. Let that sink in...

Even with all the "stupid" managerial decisions this year they are a competent bullpen away from leading the division in June.

And let me reiterate, I am indifferent on whether fredi stays or goes. I would not agree with firing him just to fire him but if a better option is realistic and available then make the move. But at the same time I am going to continue to be realistic with where I place blame and to whom I give credit during the season.
For what it's worth...
According to Braves' fans on message board I read, fredi only has a job bc bobby cox went to bat for fredi with hart. All the posters seem to think this is Fredi's last year

[shoeless joe]

For what it's worth...
According to Braves' fans on message board I read, fredi only has a job bc bobby cox went to bat for fredi with hart. All the posters seem to think this is Fredi's last year

I don't doubt that one bit. Loyalty has been one of Bobby's calling cards.

Let me ask you this...who do you think could have managed the braves to a +.500 record to this point in the season?