bravestigersdailyblog

Being Humble

2008-04-13T13:06:00.000-07:00

Ok this will be a quick update since this is Sunday. And this is supposed to be the day of rest.

Atlanta Braves

This week has been a bunch of ups and downs this week. They opened the week up in Colorado and lost 3 games straight. Most of them by one run. Jair had a bad outing and the Braves spoiled Glavine's 2 hit outing. After Colorado (which had one game SNOWED out) the Braves visited the nations' capital. And they won one close game, and just smashed the Nationals in yesterday's game. Frenchy had a 3-for-5 day with 2 HR and a career high 7 RBIs. While Tim Hudson had a fantastic night allowing only 2 hits no runs 5 Ks. John Smoltz had a similar line. The Braves are 5-6 overall and look good pitching wise and lineup wise.

Detroit Tigers

I will only say 1 phrase/sentence for the Tigers. Aweful, Pathetic Disappointing $135 million Team. God aweful performances. I don't know they just are really sucking right now. And I don't see this team turning any corner until they start hitting consistently. Only bright spot has been JV with his great outings except for last sunday night. But being left out to dry yesterday. Edgar Renteria and Brandon Inge have been hitting pretty good. Inge with a team high 7 RBIs. And of course the rookie phenom Clete Thomas and his nice lead off batting. Walks, singles couple of doubles and sac. bunts he's our man. Otherwise this whole team sucks and will stay that way until we got some solid pitching outings and a lot more hitting.

AL CENTRAL
Tigers: 2-10 Last place
NL EAST
Braves 5-6 3rd place

WOW What a Saturday Up and Down!

2008-04-05T18:15:00.000-07:00

The Title says it all. The Braves had a fantastic day and won over the NL East favorites NY Mets, 11-5. While the Favorites to win the WS or at least the AL Central the Detroit Tigers, lost to the Chi White Sox 5-3 in a heart breaker. First off the disappointment, the Tigers.

The Tigers entered the Game, 3 back of the Royals and Indians. And they stayed there as the Chicago W. Sox won and switched with the Indians for first place. The Tigers scored first with a double from Brandon Inge scoring Jaques Jones. After that, next time around Jones drew a walk and Inge again launched a bomber for a 2 run Home Run. After that Willis just kept on going with the wildness. 7 walks and 1 hit with 3ER through 6IP. That will not win ball games. The Bullpen once again gave up 2 ER and didn't help the Tigers cause. The Tigers 2 through 7 hitters were only 3-for 28 which is again insane for what our payroll and lineup potential is. The Tigers hitting has got to get started, the Tigers are on the verge of starting out 0-9 if we go into Boston without a win. Boston has far more superior pitching then KC and CHW combined. The Tigers need to wake up and get motivated because right now, it looks like they are just there to collect their paychecks. It's like the swings are lazy, wild, and just overall a don't care attitude.

The Braves on the other hand had a excellent game going before the blow out in the 7th inning. The Braves' Tim Hudson threw 6 innings and only gave up 3 ER which against the lineup packed Mets is pretty darn good. It was very good small ball playing today as the Braves got 5 Runs scored on 5 different singles or sac flies. Then the 7th came. The bases were loaded after a McCann double and walk from Prado with a single from Frenchy. And Kelly Johnson who is injured takes a full count out of the ball park for Grand Slam Home Run. Kelly smacked the ball deep the right hand corner. After that some more small ball was added as the Mets added 2 in the 8th and the Braves answered right back with Tex and McCann and a double by Frenchy. Frenchy scored once but drove in 3 runs today. I think the Mets are in trouble without Pedro they only have one proven vet of Santana and maybe Maine with two rooks. It'll be tough in the NL East but it should be between the Mets and the Braves all season. And the Braves will win the NL East in the last week of the season.

NL East
Atlanta Braves record: 2-3 Tied 3rd place

AL Central
Detroit Tigers record: 0-5 5th place

(Pictures credited to MLB.com)

Tigers 0-4 and Braves 1-3

2008-04-04T13:40:00.000-07:00

Well this is avery very bad start for both of these VERY talented teams. I guess I'll tackle the Braves first.

The Braves had a very good first 4 games losing all 3 games by 1 and winning a game by 7 lol.

First off Jair Jurrjens was just great. The Tigers traded him and Gorkys for Renteria this off season. And boy with his spring and his first start he is looking just awesome. His 5 Ks in 5.2 IP was a very nice start. The Braves bullpen has been sketchy at best, Bennett Moylan and Soriano have been pretty stellar except for Moylan's walk off homerun to the Nationals on opening night. But Others in the bullpen such as Acosta, Ohman, and Resop have been pretty bad. Acosta's bad first night and mediocre second and third nights doesn't help his cause. The rookie Resop is for some strange reason being used a lot and has 2 of the Braves 3 loses.

Going to the Braves offense a slow start has disappeared. Scoring 11,10 and then 3 runs a piece in games 1 and 4 aren't too bad. Texiera has been on a slow start with a Homer and only a couple of hits. Escobar, Diaz, Chipper have been carrying the offense these first 4 games. Diaz is 5-for-17 with a HR and 4 RBIs. That is outstanding considering he was supposed to platoon this year with Brandon Jones. Escobar is 6-for-16 with a HR and 6 RBIs. Yunel is filling in Renteria's shoes just fine as he has added some pop to his offense. Chipper is 8-for-18 and a HR and 6 RBIs as well. Chipper will be close to the MVP for the NL if he keeps this up. And he will be a great asset if he stays healthy.

Hampton being scratched from the start is also not surprising but it hurt. With Hampton out the Braves loss one of their strong veterans. With James being activated for Hampton with Mike going on 15-day DL the Braves rotation becomes weaker. Glavine did great with a 5 IP, 3Ks, and only 2ER. Along with Hudson pitching 7 IP, 3Ks, 2ER. Both of these pitchers did great. Hudson pitched like a CY Young award winner. Glavine pitched just smoothly. And proved he still has some fuel in his tank.

Now on to the winless Tigers. Several sites have picked the Tigers to win it all. Well with a $100 million lineup the Tigers very VERY surprisingly have started out with being swept by the Royals and losing today to the White Sox to open up at 0-4 record. There are many reasons why this has happened.

The Offense and their $100 million lineup is really starting to scare us. In the first four games the Tigers have scored only 10 runs. Most of the heart of the lineup is only 4 for 28 with 7 walks.
The rest of the Tigers are not very good. The leadoff position shared between Clete Thomas and Edgar Renteria, have gone 8-for-17 with 2 RBIs. And Brandon Inge has gone 4-for-12, which has been a great surprise. While Carlos Guillen has gone 5-for-13 with 3 walks and a HR.

The Rotation has arguably been the best part of the team excluding Nate's performance today. Bondo, Verlander, and Rogers have combined for 8 runs total from all of them. All of them have gone a total of 18.2 IP and have at least 3Ks except for Bondo who only has struckout 1 batter.

The Bullpen is the worst thing next to last years bullpen. It was and still is ablaze. Grilli let the lead go in the first game with 1ER and on three day rest, gave up 3 runs today. Seay, Lopez and Bautista along with Jones have been great. The have combined for 1ER. Miner has allowed 2 runs but still is throwing pretty nicely.

Things really need to shape and start up for both of these teams. There still a ton of games left in teh season but right now the Tigers need all the luck in the world otherwise we might be waiting for the 2009 season sooner rather then after October. As for the Braves they are in better shape besides going 1-3. The bullpen and rotation look pretty good and the offense should click almost every game for at least 4-5 runs.

2008 Standings through 4/4

0-4 Detroit Tigers- 5th place AL Central
1-3 Atlanta Braves- 5th place NL East

(Pictures credited to MLB.com)

Evaluating Tigers First Basemen

2008-01-19T23:38:00.000-08:00

The Detroit Tigers have a familiar face manning first base this year. Guillen moves from SS to 1B to help his ailing knees and help make him more of a power hitter. Here are my evaluations.

First Basemen- Detroit Tigers

1. Carlos Guillen 2007 stats- .296 AVG, 21 HRs, and 102 RBIs, .859 OPS, .955 FPCT

Carlos will be the first to admit he wasn't pleased to be manning first base a year before he was thinking about moving over there. Guillen also said he would only move if they got a All-Star or Gold Glove defender replacing him at SS. Well Guillen did make the move to first base for the upcoming '08 season and replacing him is All-Star Gold Glover Edgar Renteria. Guillen got his wish(good replacement at SS and his contract) and now will man first base for the rest of his Tiger contract. Guillen's experience as a SS will provide added range at the 1B position. First, His contact bat,hitting for AVG will undoubtedly be needed as Guillen is to bat probably 6th. His display of possible power surge at the end of last season should continue to grow as he rests his knees playing first. Rod Allen and Dan Dickerson say that Guillen is expected to be a possible Gold Glover next year because of his years covering SS. His range is phenomenal and will be quite good this great offensive team. Secondly, moving to first will rest Guillen's knees and maybe provide him with some 1B power in his bat so his numbers will increase at this position. Lastly, with his knees resting the DL shouldn't be a common cause for the ailing knees of Guillen. With Guillen's range and possible increase in his power he should turn out to be one great first basemen in the AL if not the best.

2008 Projected Stats: .302 AVG, 25 HRs, 109 RBIs, .921 OPS, .995 FPCT

2. Marcus Thames 2007 stats- .242 AVG, 18 HRs, 54 RBIs, .776 OPS, .975 FPCT

Marcus Thames should be named as the backup first basemen for the Tigers as soon as Spring Training begins. Thames a power hitter in his own right, hit 18 HRs in only 86 Games and half of those games he only pinch hit. With Thames being a power hitter he K's a lot and also has a low OBP and AVG. Even with these added disadvantages Thames continues to be a force to be reckoned with and Marcus should be great again this year. With Guillen more then likely needed days off to rest his knees and Jaques Jones needing a platoon partner(JJ can't hit LHP for jack), Thames should be getting a ton of playing this year. Both as a 1B and LF. Thames in '08 should still improve his number as he is entering the prime of his career.

2008 Projected Stats: .243 AVG, 22 HRs, 58 RBIs, .776 OPS, .985 FPCT

In a few days I will start with our Atlanta Braves 3rd Basemen and Shortstop.

Evaluating Atlanta First Basemen

2008-01-19T00:28:00.000-08:00

Its time for First Basemen evaluations. But, first off the Braves finished their trade for Mark Kotsay. Mark Kotsay and cash for Joey Devine and Jamie Richmond. Both RP, Devine is projected to be a closer in the future and Jamie is projected at best as a #5 or spot starter in a rotation.

And the Tigers inked Nate Robertson for $21 million and Dontrelle Willis $31 million both for 3 years. Both of these are great signings and I must admit that DD is doing very well and showing why the Tigers and Dombrowski are both elite in baseball either as a team and in the front office. Nate's contract buys out two years of arbitration and one year free agency. The same goes for Dontrelle. The move solidifies the rotation with 4 pitchers set for the next 3 seasons in the rotation. Now onto 1B men.

First Basemen- Atlanta Braves

1. Mark Teixeira 2007 Combined Stats- .307 AVG, 30 HRs, 105 RBIs, .971 OPS, .995 FPCT

Mark Teixeira is by far probably the best first basemen in the game today. Tex has a outstanding bat and usually a nice glove. Tex is a nice switching hitting power and hit for average hitter. With Chipper Jones in front of him and McCann behind Tex has some really awesome power and an awesome chances to be a premium player. Tex in 2008 will be a foundation for the Braves organization. Talks of an extension is hopeful but with Boras as his agent talks are only in the preliminary stage. Tex is an all star type caliber player and will push to be the best he can for his possible FA year in '09. While he is still a Brave Atlanta wants to push themselves into the playoffs for the first time since '05. Tex will improve and be absolutely the glue that holds the Braves offense together in '08.

2008 Projected Stats: .310 AVG, 41 HRs, 120 RBIs, 1.000 OPS, .997 FPCT.

2. Scott Thorman 2007 stats- .216 AVG, 11 HRs, 36 RBIs, .652 OPS, .991 FPCT

Scott was supposed to be LaRoche v2.0. Things are different now. Thorman was platooning with Wilson after the LaRoche trade. Thorman nor Wilson were produce at any level both were at the mendoza line. With LaRoche also having trouble with platooning the Braves got rid of Wilson to let the (at the time) soring Thorman hit everyday. Thorman instead went into a slump and thus the Braves picked up Julio Franco and later Mark Teixeira. Thorman should report to Spring Training as a backup on the bench to 1B Mark Teixeira and a power hitter off the bench. He should end up plateauing with his statistics neither really improving nor decreasing.

2008 Projected Stats: .230 AVG, 10 HRs, 29 RBIs, .650 OPS, 2 Errors

Tomorrow I'll evaluate the Detroit Tigers 1B men.

Evaluating Tigers Catchers

2008-01-13T18:35:00.000-08:00

Time for the Tigers to get evaluated. Before that the Braves made a move to improve CF for 2008.They traded Joey Devine for Mark Kotsay and cash. This deal isn't too bad. Both Blabberin Braves and Talking Chop have the inside scoop. They don't like the trade at all. Braves fans were all complaining about a experienced CF now we have one at a cost, yes, but Wren did what a lot of braves fans were complaining about, saying that CF was not being maned right and obviously Wren did the right move in NOT rushing a possible 5 tool prospect to the Majors. Schafer will man CF maybe by the all star break or maybe by Sept depending on how Kotsay is, but I don't think rushing Schafer is the right move or being fair to Schafer expecting him to be mister incredible only after playing in A ball. He will be a great star soon but don't rush him because of his potential to be a star(ex. Cameron Maybin DET Tigers had a horrible debut this year with errors and not much more then a SB threat if he got on base.) And he was the same as Schafer A ball only with limited AA play.

Overall I give the trade a B-. we need a stop gap experienced CF and the trade is on hold and unless the braves are 100% happy with the physical and health results then the trade is off. we have to accept the trade and hopefully Kotsay will be good to go this year. If not then Schafer, Anderson , and Blanco will be grabbing for playing time in CF. Blanco and Anderson first then Schafer(still needs much seasoning hasn't played above A ball)

CATCHERS- Detroit Tigers

1. Ivan "Pudge" Rodriguez 2007 stats- .281 AVG, 11 HRs, 63 RBIs, .714 OPS, .993 FPCT

Pudge had another down year in '07. Pudge had his option picked up this year because of the bad market for Catchers via FA. His career numbers show that he deserved the $13 million option but his '06-'07 numbers showed something else- a decline. No matter what people think Pudge will do everything in his power to make sure that his stats are prime for his 2009 FA market. And he knows that the catchers market is bad since there are more and more catchers awful catchers that his experience and veteran ship will be sought after in '09. Pudge will want to carry at least a 4 year package to get himself to playing to he is 40 and maybe surpass everyone on the number of games caught by the time he retires. I'm looking for Pudge to rebound and get that major 4 year+ deal in the off season so he can play til he is 40. Pudge in '08 will reflect his '06 numbers and he will be a major part of the Tigers dangerous lineup in '08.

2008 projected stats: .301 AVG, 13 HRs, 70 RBIs, .775 OPS .997 FPCT

2. Vance Wilson 2007 injured season~'06 stats- .283 AVG, 5 HRs, 18 RBIs, .745 OPS, .997 FPCT

Vance did not play in '07 because of a torn muscle in his forearm. We were disappointed as was he. In '06 Wilson along with many Tigers had a grand year. his .283 Average was pretty nice considering he is primarily a backup player. Wilson will make the team in '08 easily. Unless he is at risk for an injury he should be the backup opening day. Wilson will regress being out of action for a season but not by much. And this beats paying 5+ million to other catchers that are really declining like Olivo, and La Duca. Wilson is a nice backup with some pop and good hitting off the bench. He is the right choice for Pudge's '08 backup.

2008 projected stats: .250 AVG, 4 HRs, 19 RBIs, .650 OPS, .997 FPCT

3. Dane Sardinha 2007 AAA stats- .202 AVG, 10 HRs, 47 RBIs, .580 OPS

Dane will more then likely serve as a emergency backup in case Wilson cant make a comeback or Pudge or Wilson are injured during the season. His stats aren't all that eye popping. Some will say he is a sort of Andruw Jones with all pop and no OBP. While I wouldn't mind him backing up the main catcher whom ever it would be (depending on who is injured) no way does he make it on the opening day roster or make a good starting catcher someday in Detroit.

2008 projected AAA stats: .200 AVG, 11 HRs, 50 RBIs, .550 OPS

Tomorrow I'll start on the Braves Corner fielders of the diamond.

Time to Start Evaluating Positions

2008-01-09T19:29:00.000-08:00

Sorry bout being away for so long.....had no Internet at home during the break. I'm back though.The next weeks I will turn away from the hot stove and enter the analysis portion of preseason baseball. First up is the Catchers position.

CATCHERS - Atlanta Braves

1. Brian McCann- 2007 stats, .270 AVG, 18 HRs, 92 RBIs .772 OPS, .987 FPCT

Brian McCann 2 time all star should easily start behind the plate for the Braves. McCann has improved each year technically with last years bad start bringing down his stats for 2007. McCann experience and good eye should easily help McCann to have a exceptional year this year, possibly a career year. If he can stay healthy, and keep his stats up this should be the best year for McCann since coming up from Mississippi AA in 2005. TalkingChop has done a very nice report on McCann and how he shapes up for the '08 season. Defensively McCann should also improve from his 13 error season in '07. Overall McCann I believe should have a career year as long as he remains healthy.

2008 projected stats: .300 AVG, 23 HRs, 102 RBIs, .791 OPS and a .990 FPCT

2. Javy Lopez- 2006 stats(BAL & BOS), .230 AVG, 8 HRs, 35 RBIs, .606 OPS and 3 Errors

Javy Lopez through his career has been a great asset to most teams he has been on. The Best was his 11 year career in Atlanta. He had a career best in 2003 hitting 43 HR and batted a whopping .328. With his recent decline in offensive and especially in his defensive skills he was traded away from the Orioles who signed him in 2003 for full time Catching duties. In 2006, with the Boston Red Sox he pretty much ended his career as a starter. In backup duties on the Sox he was very limited only getting in a bat here and there. After the season the Red Sox released him and the Colorado Rockies signed him and offered him an invite to Spring Training, he then was released and did not play in 2007 at all. I believe that Lopez still has to prove his worth. Hiring Braves bench coach Chino Cadahia he is working on his defensive skills (which have always been a problem), and it seems he is serious about getting back to the majors. If Javy can be a reliable hitting and defensive backup he will get the job hands down mainly because of veteran presence and playoff experience.

2008 Projected stats: .233 AVG, 10 HRs, 38 RBIs, .585 OPS, 3-5 Errors

3. Clint Sammons- 2007 A and AA total stats, .243 AVG, 5 HRs, 35 RBIs, .631 OPS, .951 FPCT

Sammons, who was drafted in the 6th round by the Braves in 2004, is a mid level prospect. He has lived up to that potential and has become a solid defensive backstop with little power and hit for league average. Sammons coming off of a solid defensive year for Myrtle Beach A and Mississippi AA has a chance to get on the 25 man roster after spring training if he brings his A game only. With a recent promotion to AA Mississippi many are wondering if Sammons will be able to forgo AAA and hit the majors as a backup for the Braves this season. Though I believe he would do below average work for a backup catcher there really is no need to rush this prospect to the majors with Lopez most likely getting the backup role this year. Next year is the time in my opinion that Sammons should play and play full time backup for the Braves. It will not only save the Braves money(for Teixeira), but it will allow him to be seasoned at AA and AAA this year to be ready for the MLB in '09.

2008 AA and AAA total Projected stats: .240 AVG, 8 HRs, 40 RBIs, .603 OPS and .950 FPCT

Tomorrow I will put up the Tigers potential Catchers.

(disclaimer- Sammons and Lopez analysis came from my post on Blabberin Braves on Backup Catcher)

Winter Meetings in Nashville and Beyond

2007-12-12T15:36:00.000-08:00

WOW WOW WOW!!!!! Forgive my excitement but man o man! What a Winter Meetings. It should be at least for the Tigers the Winter Blast!! MEGA BLOCKBUSTER 8 Player Trade!! Miguel Cabrera, Dontrelle Willis for Andrew Miller, Cameron Maybin, Mike Rabelo and 3 other prospects.

Tigers
This has gone down as one of the biggest trades the Detroit Tigers have ever made. The Tigers in sending their #1 and #2 Prospects for two All Star YOUNG and ill say that again YOUNG players. This was a deal that was way to good to pass up. From what I understand Mike Ilitch was the one who was interested in Miggy and without him the deal probably wouldn't have gone down. I will go down every major player in the deal right now:

Miguel Cabrera #24, 3B, 24 years old

Cabrera the centerpiece in the deal is a 4 time all star and a young Pujols stud. A guy who has averaged .320 30+HR and 120RBIs the last 3 seasons will supplant Inge at 3B. Cabrera will be absolutely phenomenal for the Tigers. The Tigers lineup is about 3x as deadly as they were in '07 and 6x as deadly as '06. The lineup is similar to the 2006 Yankees murderers row and Cano. The lineup is so versatile that its just sick. Edgar Renteria 5 time all star is hitting 7th, 7th that is just sick. Then you got Granderson, Polanco, Cabrera, Maggs, and Sheffield in 1-5 that is just an insane lineup. No need for a trip to the All Star Game just go see a tigers game this season. Cabrera is projected at .318 AVG 30 HRs and 118 RBIs in his first year in the AL. This lineup is projected by Bilfers new projections to average 5.83 RPG that is insane. And its pretty darn good.

Dontrelle Willis #21, LHP, 25 years old

Willis the other big guy in the deal is Dontrelle "D-Train" Willis. "D-Train" had a down year last year but is hoping to rebound with a competitive team with a non ace and non stressful role. Willis should bounce back in dominant form. Willis should be able to compile around a 4.50 ERA with around 11-12 wins and 7-9 losses. With the addition of Willis the Tigers rotation should be more than enough to keep Tigers leads as with a huge lineup like we have now. I predict a 12-8 Season for Willis with a 4.32 ERA, 160 K with 75 BB. With a Rotation of Verlander, Rogers, Bonderman, Willis and Robertson the rotation should be in the middle of the top tier of the AL pitching staffs. If the Red Sox get Santana, and Beckett, Dice-K, Wakefield, and Curt Schilling are all staying at the level last year the Red Sox will have the best rotation but the Detroit Tigers should have a solid rotation with a solid pen this year. Willis also contacted his agent and would like a multi year deal with the Tigers. This would present a bargain for the Tigers if they sign him now and he rebounds. If not, it can be seen as a decent acquisition for the Tigers for two years.

This rotation should notch with the addition of around 3 to 4 more wins. While the Lineup should notch 5 to 8 more wins. This should be a completely awesome season next year as the Tigers go for broke and land two young stars and instantly make them favorites in the division on paper.

In other News, Detroit swapped a reliever for a reliever both for a new start in a new league to see if they have what it takes. Danny Bautista from the Rockies for Jose Capellan. Bautista was 2-1 with a 12.46 ERA, Bautista looks to restart his career in Detroit. He has a fire thrower for an arm. But his inaccuracies and control problems will exist. If he doesn't shape up within a month or show signs of improving he needs to be gone.

In the last move of the Tigers winter meetings the Tigers swapped once prized Rule 5 Draft pick Chris Shelton to Texas for Freddy Guzman. Freddy was a top 10 Padres prospect entering 2006. But his value has diminished in AAA he batted .279 with a .366 on-base percentage and 42 stolen bases. Here's hoping maybe he can be effective for the Tigers as a pinch runner or a decent backup OF.

In other news, The Tigers non tendered Chad Durbin. Chad went 7-8 on the year while subbing in for the injured Kenny Rogers. Durbin hopes to pitch somewhere but is quoted with saying “If I had a choice,” the right-hander said Wednesday, laughing, “it wouldn’t be in the AL Central.” I will miss but also say goodbye to Durbin. He was reliable but not on a team that is now all star calibur. Also Tim Brydak has signed a one year/ $712,500 deal with the Tigers to avoid arbitration. Brydak held left-handed batters to a .176 AVG with a 3-0 record and 3.20 ERA in 39 games. Brydak is a very reliable lefty with Bobby Seay out of the pen. I'm glad he has resigned with the Tigers. His good mechanics and control should help the Tigers hold many leads in the season especially in the later months, during the playoff chase.

I will get to the Braves Winter Meetings acquisitions a little later.

Loose End Rumors

2007-11-29T15:24:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since I have posted. So I will sort out the news by Team.

Atlanta Braves-

First was the bad news that Mike Hampton again has falling to an injury while trying to make a comeback from 3 injury plagued seasons. While pitching in the first inning in the Mexican Winter League he apparently put a strain on his hamstring and thus stopped his comeback and will be shelved until pitchers report in January. Hampton entering his final year in a $121 million contract. As the braves see it now and as do i, they don't expect him to be in the rotation this year. This in fact now limits it down to two individuals for the 5th spot: Jair Jurrjens and Jo-Jo- Reyes. I hope Mike can make a recovery but I highly doubt he can come back. Good luck to Mike with his new team next year or with what ever new endeavors he pursues.

On to the rumor mill, A report with the Boston Herald, says the Braves are interested in a 4th outfielder. They named Bobby Kielty as this outfielder. Bobby coming off a injury year also hit the final homerun of the World Series and was a hero as the Sox won that game 4-3. Kielty's move should stem on the fact if the Sox gain Santana for Crisp, and or Ellesbury and other players. He thinks that his fate in the BoSox organization is if Crisp is there or not and then he'll make that decision. Kielty would make a good addition to the Braves but the thing is we already have platoon in LF with Jones/Diaz. But If we are making a trade move for Crisp we might have to move Diaz and or Jones, I believe that It would be a nice package to send Diaz/Jones/and a Pitching prospect to Boston for the combo of Bobby Kielty and Coco Crisp. That way LF and CF are set and CF is easily a stopgap.

Ron Mahay, is still being considered by the Braves but with the Yankees and Mets involved it looks like the bidding could keep the Braves out of the negotiations. Ron Mahay with the Braves went 1-0 with a 2.25 ERA with 23 Ks and 16 BB in 60 innings. Mahay would be a welcome sight back in Atlanta but with bidding for RP FA it probably wont happen. I predict a 2 yrs/$12 million contract for Mahay with the NYY.

Detroit Tigers-

Well It looks like good old Kenny isn't totally ready to accept the $8 million deal with the Tigers just yet. We are still waiting on Kenny Rogers to negotiate a deal with DD before the Winter Meetings. Kenny says he needs time to get situated as his own free agent. I think he still wants a one year $10 million contract. Kenny needs to cool down after his injury plagued season last year, he should take that $8 million easily maybe negotiate for incentives, and maybe he is doing that now but I don't know. We need Kenny for a year and we also need his leadership for the younger kids.

As for our new reliever corp, It looks like we lost out on the Herges sweepstakes as the Rox have signed him for a year. We are now going for LaTroy Hawkins for a multi year deal. I'm not sure about this deal. Sure Hawkins had a phenomenal post season and a decent 2-5 3.42 ERA this season but still a 34 year old getting a multi year contract who is already possible on the decline(especially strikeouts 1.8 Ks/9 innings) is not a very wise. Did we not learn from the Mesa disaster from last year. LaTroy for one year would be very valuable but two or more years, I'm not to sure about that. Guess we shall see.

Apparently the Interest in Octavio Dotel has cooled since Dotel seems to be wanting $12 million two year contract. Dotel's health risk and not reaching the 100 game plateau combined the last three seasons, do not meet the ends. Dotel would still be a good risk for us, but a one year deal worth less then $5 million would not spark an interest with the injury plagued Dotel.

Finally for both the Braves and the Tigers interest in Kei Igawa, is there. Why the Braves are interested is possible to replace the now injured Mike Hampton, The Tigers may want him for depth in case Miller falters or actually for the 5th spot for the rotation. Other then that the Braves are set for their rotation and Dave Dombrowski has said once Rogers is signed they will not pursue a SP.

That is it for now.

Tom Glavine signs and Rogers speculation

2007-11-19T19:26:00.000-08:00

Wow its been 5 long years but the second of the legendary Braves trio has found his way back to Atlanta. Tom Glavine officially signed with the Braves for $8 million one year deal. This a great day for the braves. He will give us a solid #3 starter in the rotation and also mentor the young guys at #4 and #5 spots on the rotation. He seems extremely comfortable as says he doesn't want to be a #1 starter on the staff. He was quoted today saying:

"I don't think I'm that kind of pitcher anymore. There's enough pressure to go out and pitch in this game without the pressures of feeling that every time you go out there that you have to prove to people that you're worth something or worth a certain amount of money. "The last two years, I've forgone options that I had in my contract for more money than I ended up making simply because I don't view myself as a No. 1 guy anymore, and I don't think I should be paid that way. That's just the way that I am. That doesn't mean that I still can't go out there for stretches of time and pitch like a No. 1 guy."

Glavine will be a welcome addition to the Braves staff and organization once again.

Kenny Rogers finally started negotiations again for a deal with the Tigers this time his agent is himself. Rogers was contacted by Dombrowski but DD decided to not talk about what they discussed. That $8 million one year deal looks perfect and maybe add on some treats for Rogers for some extra cash and give him a $9-9.5 million total incentive laden deal. With Glavine signing for $8 million at a discount, one has to wonder if Rogers might do the same thing. Let us hope.

In other Detroit news, the money hungry, money grabbing, Pudge Rodriguez wants to catch til he is 40 years old. That's big but he wont get the big bucks like he used to unless he does something miraculous this season for his last big FA year.

Glavine, Braves near deal

2007-11-18T13:39:00.000-08:00

UPDATE 11/18 11:49pm: Its officially unofficial that Tom Glavine is now a Brave. Tom Glavine officially signed a one year non incentive, non bonus, deal for $8 million according to Foxports.com.Though it wont be official until Monday the 40 year old former Brave starter is now back at home. Tom is expected to be the #3 starter for the team and reinforce the rotation along with helping the young talented pitchers the Braves have this year. Well SP is signed now on to the big time vacuum in CF who will the new CF be? One can only hope Wren knows who to go for..... More updates tomorrow.

As I posted on Friday the Braves and Glavine now appear to be nearing a deal set for later today. According to the MLB.com Hot Stove, Glavine is set to have a one year 8 million deal. Although the formal announcement probably won't be til Monday, I will have an update if I hear anything. As for the deal, Glavine will give the Braves a solid innings eating #3 starter that they needed all last season. Chuck was good but is not a #3 caliber starter. Glavine will be that rock that solidifies the rotation in 2008. The Braves will have a very strong rotation for 2008 that should rival any one's rotation in the NL East.

2008 Rotation

1.Hudson
2.Smoltz
3.Glavine
4.James/Jurrjens
5.James/Jurrjens/Hampton/Reyes

That is a very strong lineup that should definitely compete much more strongly then the 2007 rotation. That had a revolving door on #4 and 5 starters. Welcome back Tommy Welcome back to Atlanta.

Rogers cuts Boras and Glavine offer

2007-11-16T17:57:00.000-08:00

Two really big stories here. The first is that Scott Boras already having an issue with the A-Rod proceedings, is now official cut off from Kenny Rogers, as Rogers has (and an arguably smart move) fired Boras.

According to MLB.com, Rogers after having an off year with a blood clot in his pitching shoulder was out til mid season and after that had more problems in his pitching elbow which landed him on the DL for most o f the rest of the season and officially with 3-4 in 11 starts in 2007. That is after coming off of a 17-10 season in 2006 with a 3-0, 0.00 ERA in the 2006 postseason. Rogers was given through Boras two offers from the Tigers one reportedly worth 11 million one year deal. Both were turned down by Boras. This was after in September saying Rogers was either going to retire or pitch only with Detroit. Many fans including myself thought that he was double crossing Detroit. With this new news today, it shows that Rogers was really not in the discussion and Boras was really handling all of Rogers offers and negotiations. Now that Rogers is representing himself A offer and contract signing from Detroit is almost an assured thing. Ill even give him that 10 million base salary with 1 million+ incentives just because he is a leader in the rotation and because Boras is gone LOL. Great job Kenny you know where your heart is IN DETROIT!!!

In other news according to MLB.com, the Braves GM Wren has been the first to offer a contract to Tom Glavine. The contract details were not given out but this has been talked about by Clifton who is Glavines agent. He said,

"We will have a counter proposal by Friday evening or Saturday morning."

This shows that Glavine is the #1 signing the Braves want for starting rotation and the same goes for Glavine as he wants to be a Brave when he retires. This is great for the Braves organization if we can pull this one off without using a lot of money. Glavine should get around 10 million plus incentives and a possible 2009 mutual option. This would help the Braves tremendously and I hope the Braves get Glavine. The veteran presence with Smoltz, and Glavine will help the #4 and 5 starters especially if it is Chuck James/Jo-Jo Reyes/Jair Jurrjens.
They will be helped out tremendously.

In another small trade MLBTR is reporting Oscar "The Vulture" Villarreal was traded to the Houston Astros for CF Josh Anderson. Anderson is not a 5 tool or even a 4 tool outfielder, he definitely looks to be a backup plan in case Wren can not sign or trade for a experienced CF. Anderson hit .358 in the final month of the 2007 season with the Astros but in AAA he hit .258 with 41 stolen bases. He looks like a speedster but his on base percentage of .325 in AAA. So he will need some major help if we can not find anyone else out there for CF. Oscar Villarreal good luck with your new team, wish you the best. You can find more analysis of this trade on BlabberinBraves.

Tigers and Livan Hernandez?

2007-11-15T14:24:00.000-08:00

According to Paul Morosi, the Tigers are interested in Livan Hernandez. MLBTR has their analysis, and I completely agree. Hernandez was a Diamondback last year and was a nice innings eater. In fact he has had over 200 innings in the last 9 of the past 10 years. Hernandez would be an interesting acquisition but I am totally against it. Being 33 Hernandez would require around a 3-4 year deal for $33-44 million. That is too much for a pitcher who is in a decline mode. He has had a lot of innings but also given up many runs as well. He went 11-11 last year with a ERA of 4.93. That is not a good #3 or 4 pitcher nor a good choice for the Tigers team chemistry. This acquisition would be not seen as a good signing by the majority of Tigers fans. Still Carlos Silva and Willis are on the Tigers list. I really wish the Tigers would consider Kyle Lohse though.

Braves have cash & other rumors

2007-11-14T19:26:00.000-08:00

UPDATE 11/17 1:02am: It has been reported by MLB.com, that Wren and Clifton met on Wednesday but with no offer being made to Glavine to return. Although there was no offer made both sides said they w ere very interested in each other and were going to talk in the next few days possibly about a contract. This is exciting, I'm pretty sure Glavine will be a Braves by next week. Wren sure has changed how some agents treat the Braves. I'm really starting to respect Wren as a GM. Keep the good news coming. Anything else will be up tomorrow.

Well my Tigers ranting for the day is pretty much settled down. But once again the Braves now are on the hunt. According to Tim Tucker of the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Braves are ready to spend money. Their number one target.

Mark Texeira- The Braves are hoping to get in place a major multi-year deal for Texeira before next seasons FA. Though the club hasn't commented on if they will seek a multi-year deal for Texiera the new money from LibertyMedia and Andruw Jones and Renteria contracts will be in the discussion. I warn you this is not a done deal this is possibilities. I think this is a great thing for the Braves. If Liberty spends a little more on the Braves and the Braves keep on earning a ton of gross from merchandising and ballpark tickets, the Braves should raise their pay role by $10 million for 2009 and have enough for a multi year $90-100 million dollar contract for Texeira. This is what I am hoping on. Texeira hit 15+ HRs for the braves while piling up 66 RBIs. If things go right Texeira could be with us for many years to come. (Here's hoping that he keeps Boras out of the discussion mainly because Tex loves it in Atl.)

In other news, according to MLBTR and Boston media, the braves may hav an eye in the hunt for Mike lowell. This is a nose scratcher. Lowell plays 3B, Chipper plays 3B. Where would be move them. Chipper will not be in LF, and Mike will not play SS. My thinking is that we will have if a deal is reached(rumored $50-60 million 4 years), the infield looks like this.

1B Texeira
2B Escobar/Johnson
SS Chipper
3B Lowell
C McCann
LF Diaz/B. Jones/Johnson
CF B. Jones/FA/Frenchy
RF Frenchy/Johnson/Harris

Now that is kinda wierd but to me thats the only way that this will work. Lowell is also an insurance against Chipper falling to the DL again. Lowell would be great for the team but just not sure where he could go.

And finally Glavine's agent spoke with Wren today and I believe they are close to a deal. Though neither came out afterward and spoke to reporters all things that were said is that things went well. The more I think of it, the more I believe Glavine will be the Braves opening day #3 starter. It will most likely be a one year deal worth $10-11 million with incentives and a mutual option for 2009. Is he worth it I don't know but the Braves need an established veteran on the rotation and Glavine seems like a perfect fit.

Tigers pitching worries?

2007-11-13T19:18:00.000-08:00

Well last night I was keeping an eye on the hot stove for the Tigers since getting the news that Rogers and Boras declined two Detroit offers according to the Detroit News. This is getting interesting. With the reported offer that Rogers was given indicated that it was $9-11 million offer for one year with incentives. This base salary is waaaaaay to much even for Rogers and his awesome 2006 season. Bilfer at DetroitTigersWeblog gives a detail description of how much Rogers is worth for another season. He indicates that it should be around $10 million. I still think that is too much but with added incentives he is worth the $11 million. Rogers is getting way old and to pay for a pitcher $10 million when he just came off of a injury plagued season, is just ridiculous. Dave Dombrowski needs to start seriously look at signing Silva or Jennings or try for a trade for say a Willis or a Derek Lowe. I will explain what signing those FA or Trades will do to us.

Our rotation must be fixed and soon. If Rogers signed elsewhere, we must sign Silva, or Lohse.

Kyle Lohse- In 2006 after being traded to Philly, Lohse had a great final two months with plenty run support and controlling his pitches. Lohse's numbers for 2006 A)4.58 ERA, 16 HR allowed, and 6-12 record. His Philly stats indicated a much better pitcher with a lineup with run support, 4.72 ERA, 6 HR allowed and 3-0 record. With both Great American Ballpark and Citizens Bank Ballpark being HR parks, I believe Lohse coming here(to Comerica) would be an added bonus and with the run support, he will be a winning pitcher and possibly a great surprise. The cost will be high.

Carlos Silva- He is another high cost FA pitcher. Though he is younger then Lohse, I'm not sure he would be better. His 2006 stats show a very .500 pitcher at best. He had a 13-14 record, with a 4.19 ERA, and only 89Ks. Even so, he would be a average #4 or 5 spot rotation. If we cant pick up Rogers or Lohse then Silva would be the guy.

Andrew Miller- I mean I'm not a Miller hater, but I don’t want Miller in the rotation because he is still I believe a year out from being a major leaguer. We need an established major league pitcher like Rogers and Lohse to round out the rotation this year and then bring in Miller next year. Sign Lohse/Silva to a 4 year deal worth $50 Million. And that will give us a strong rotation til Porcello comes in.

‘08 Rotation

1. Bonderman
2. Rogers?
3. Verlander
4. Silva/Lohse
5. Robertson

‘09 Rotation

1.Bonderman
2.Verlander
3.Silva/Lohse
4.Robertson/Miller
5.Miller/Porcello

‘10 Rotation

1. Verlander
2. Bonderman
3. Miller
4. Silva/Lohse
5. Porcello

Brian Fuentes- For relief, I still like the idea of bringing in Brian Fuentes. He a established reliever and a possible closer type candidate if Jones were to get injured. Brian helped the Rockies in the 7th and 8th innings in the playoffs and was pretty solid. His ‘07 stats are compelling with an 3.08 ERA, with 56Ks in 61.1 innings. His career stats aren't that different with an 3.53 ERA, 398Ks in 359.1 innings pitched. He would do us a favor and would be great in the backup/setup role. He would come as a huge cost coming off of a great year, so not sure how much DD would pay to get him.

Octavio Dotel- From what I heard from MLB.com Hot Stove, the Tigers are in contact with Octavio Dotel's agent. He still have some nasty stuff with his delivery. The only thing that makes me skeptical is the injuries he has had last season and seasons past. Dotel however, if proven healthy would make a fine back up closer and setup man for the Tigers bullpen, and with his injury woes he should come cheap.

I think that looks good, though the cost of Silva and/or Lohse might be too high for The Tigers but they would look good and be good in the old English D.

Glavine and Tiger Roundup

2007-11-13T15:17:00.000-08:00

UPDATE 11/14 2:00am:
According to MLB.com Hot Stove, the Tigers have been in contact with the FA Octavio Dotel. This would ultimately safe guard our setup man and also have a emergency closer. Though I do like this possible signing.....Dotel has been injury plagued for many seasons and I'm not sure about how effective he will be. If he can be very effective with minimal injury, he will be an awesome addition but if he is plagued with injury, It will be 2007 all over again.

More on this and Kenny, tomorrow and on possible other deals or signings in respect to our rotation.

UPDATE 11/14 1:35am:
Wow things are moving fast!! According to MLB.com Hot Stove, Boras and Rogers have declined already two offers from the Tigers and Dombrowski. This is almost a finish between the two parties. Dombrowski if he is smart wont offer a third package. As much as I love Rogers thought he was the glue that held us together in 2006, theres now way I would give him and Boras(greedy agent) $10 million for a one year deal. If this is it Good Luck to Rogers and his new team. And as for Boras he is brillant but also a greedy agent that ruins good team chemistry(Tigers-Rogers, Braves-Jones, in '09 Braves- Texiera). For that a big whooping THANKS >:(

Also the Tigers have gotten Danny Christensen in the deal that sent Romon Colon to the Royals. Danny was 5-15 in AA for the Royals so it seems like a baggage for baggage trade we shall see.

More on this tomorrow and on possible other deals or signings in respect to our rotation.

UPDATE 11/13 11:34pm:
According to the Detroit FreePress, Boras in accordance to the Schilling deal, wants a one year/$10 million for his client. To me with his injury plagued season last year that is way to much to sign him for. Boras and Dombrowski needs to negotiate a compromising deal for around $7.5-8.5 million with incentives. This is bad news for the Tigers, as I feel we will not match Boras' offer.

Well today there wasn't much backlash or new news from the Tigers trade yesterday. Jones is expected to platoon with Thames/Raburn in '08. While shipping Jones to the Tigers the Cubs have also given around $2 million in the deal to the Tigers to help pay for his last year contract. I still say this will definitely give us a formidable lineup this year. This also gives us the ability to let Pudge bat 8th, and also puts less pressure on him and Inge. His career numbers of .280/.329/.455, will definitely help out. His 5 HR from last year I believe was a fluke and he will give us around 10-15 HR next year while knocking in around 70 RBIs. The lineup will look somewhat like this:

1. Granderson/Jones
2. Polanco
3. Sheffield
4. Ordonez
5. Guillen
6. Renteria
7. Jones/Granderson/Thames
8. Pudge
9. Inge

In other news, according to Chicagocubs.com former Tiger OF Craig Monroe is now a Minnesota Twin. The Cubs traded him to the Twins for a player to be named later, this move is a move to get some sort of prospect for a player they would not tender this year. Monroe who spent half of 2007 with the Tigers, hit .222/.264/.373 with 11 HR and 55 RBIs. He was an outstanding player but hit a plateau and is I think on the decline. With Minn. fans saying they love the bad trade of Jaques Jones to Detroit is just insane when their own GM just traded for a player on the decline. In any case I give my luck to Monroe and hope he turns it around this year.(except of course against the Tigers.)

For Braves fans, Tom Glavine and the Braves according to MLB.com, are expected to move swiftly through negotiations and sign Glavine to a 1 year deal around $7-9 million with incentives and a mutual option for '09. So good ol' Tommy wants to end his awesome career in a Braves uniform. That is all good but how good will Glavine be? Well he did have the 5th best quality starts in the NL in 2007 with 22. Though he had the 2nd highest ERA (4.45) in his career last year as well. I think the idea of being in a friendly environment in Atlanta, along with competing with his long time teammate and friend John Smoltz will also give him incentive to out pitch John. Glavine will be a great #3 pitcher for Atlanta, this along with no pressure to be the ace of the pitching staff will enable Glavine to pitch unconditionally well without fallout from fans.

2008 Pitching Staff:

1. Tim Hudson
2. Jon Smoltz
3. Tom Glavine?
4. Chuck James/Jair Jurrjens/Mike Hampton
5. Chuck James/Jair Jurrjens/Jo-Jo Reyes/Mike Hampton

I believe that the Braves will compete especially after the addition of Glavine and the Tigers need to shore up their pitching staff in order to make it back to the playoffs because their lineup is now all set.

1st Post -Renteria & J. Jones & Braves needs!!

2007-11-13T02:57:00.000-08:00

Hmmm, what a day for me. First ever REAL blog and also the big moves the Tigers decided to make today.

Lets go for the trade. WOW is what I can say about this off season already.

1. Edgar Renteria- An awesome choice and an obvious major upgrade over Casey. I was calling this move ever since July as I knew Casey would be expendable either at the deadline or in the off season. As for the Braves they had an awesome starting shortstop in Yunel Escobar and he has seemed to take a liking to his position. With the thought of being an utility guy behind him and his 11 errors that accompanied that, Yunel sets off to try and make use of a great opportunity. Over on the Detroit side again Renteria is an upgrade defensively for the SS position. Moving Guillen to 1B, I hope will keep his stats high or hopefully higher by resting his knees. The cost was Gorkys(#5 prospect now in the Braves org.) and My baby Tiger Jair Jurrjens.( #3 prospect in the Braves org.) This cost will help the Braves in the future and quite possibly(depending on the undependable health of Hampton,) this year having Jurrjens be the #5 starter. The cost was high for the Tigers but filled a void we needed and with great offensive and defensive capabilities. As for the Braves the return was to fill in farm system holes that were voided after the Salty trade to Texas.

Trade advantage - Even for both teams.

2. And then comes Jacque Jones. Jones is a moderately above average OF who is in his prime, had a down power year(so did the Cubs all season) But this is also his FA year and he wants maximum buck for his talent so he wont be putting up 5 HR numbers this year but being platooned he wont get those 25+ HR he had a while back either. With his platoon ability in LF with either Thames/Raburn Jones is expected to become a solid or potentially loosely great #8 hitter for Detroit's lineup hitting .280-.300 this year. The Cubs in getting Infante, is another story. He hasn't had the chance to actually live to his full potential. As Infante has been on the non-favorable side of Leyland. He is a risky proposition for a everyday starter this season but getting him more AB and Fielding time will allow him to A) get more suitors for him next year, or B) train him for an everyday SS or 2B in '09 for the Cubs. Either way it is a very decent to great trade from DD. This cost of Infante is alright since we are getting a solid OF in Jacque Jones. It was a decent risk trade that I believe we got the better of the two.

Trade advantage - Tigers

3. FA Todd “Rollercoster” Jones was also signed today for 7 million. What can you say hopefully Zumaya will be back and not have to re-learn how to pitch after his accident . Jones will be there as our closer for the first half of the season and probably most of the second half and also mentoring Zumaya the closer role. So was more of an urgent move rather then smart move. And 7 million is a bit steep but I guess after having 3 million fill the ballpark for the first time Illitch wants to spend to have more fans fill Comerica this year lol.

Signing grade ~ B-

Still there are needs:

Tigers

SP-we need someone to fill In #4 or 5 or both depending on if we can sign Rogers again. Someone like Willis through a trade. Or perhaps a signing of Silva, Jennings, or Lohse might get the Tigers what they need.

RP- A setup guy would be awesome. I'm hoping for Brian Fuentes. He pitched great for Colorado this year I'm hoping we can get him and put him in the role Zumaya had for first part and give him some good duties afterward. Plus he would be great for a setup man after Jones is gone and Zumaya is the new closer. Plus Fuentes has closer experience so if Zumaya isn't as dominating as he once was, we still have Fuentes to fall back on to be our closer in ‘09.

Braves

SP- Tom Glavine is rumored to be ready to sign at the end of the weak for the Braves( via MLBTR )

CF- The Braves are in desperate need of a stop gap CF. The only ones i know of that are viable might be David DeJesus or Coco Crisp. Both of these are great CF have speed and leadoff capabilities. But what price are the Braves willing to give up for them. Time will tell.

Cant wait til the winter meetings to see what goes on next. Keep ‘em coming DD and Wren the fans(at least I) am loving these deals. Go Tigers and Braves!!!