Bleacher Report - Articles by Brett Kettyle

Top Five "Brave" Surprises Of 2009

Brett Kettyle — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 15:55:14 -0500

The 2009 season is in the books, and it was one of, if not the, most frustrating seasons I can remember for the Braves.

To look back at the year that was, I will make lists of five, covering everything from disappointments to off-season moves I would like to see made.

The 2009 season fell short of my (and many other Braves fans) expectations, so to start off this season review I give you my Top Five Brave Surprises of 2009.

5. Rafael Soriano, Mike Gonzalez, Peter Moylan, and Eric O’Flaherty

What is the surprise here you ask? It looks like I basically just listed our top options for the last three innings of a game.

That’s exactly what I did, and the surprise is that these four were basically the only four options Bobby Cox used in the late innings of close games.

All four pitchers were in the top 10 in the majors in appearances. Moylan led the team with 87, followed by Gonzalez (80), O’Flaherty (78), and Soriano (77). I don’t know if that has ever happened before in Major League history.

All four pitched extremely well, O’Flaherty had the highest ERA in the group at 3.04, but there were times when the innings seemed to catch up with them.

With the starting pitching overhaul that the Braves received in the offseason, it was definitely surprising to see our top four relievers used as often as they were.

4. Martin Prado

I know that Prado entered the season with a .307 batting in 329 career at bats. Prado also spent six seasons in the minors, during which he hit an even .300.

But to me, Prado was a surprise in 2009, because I certainly had my doubts as to whether or not he could perform as an everyday second baseman.

After Kelly Johnson struggled, Prado got his chance as the full-time second baseman and posted a .307/11/49 line in 450 at bats.

While Prado will never give you a ton of power or speed, he was a great hitter in the No. 2 spot, and I think he will be the starting second baseman for the next couple years, at least.

3. Tommy Hanson

I know, there was a ton of hype surrounding Hanson coming into the season, but for a rookie to post the numbers that he did, I consider it a surprise.

The most hyped pitching prospect at the beginning of the year was David Price, and he posted respectable rookie numbers (10-7, 4.42 ERA).

Tommy Hanson wasn’t just respectable, he was amazing (and in my opinion, deserved the rookie of the year award over J.A. Happ and Chris Coghlan).

The numbers on the surface were great for any pitcher (11-4, 2.89 ERA, 1.18 WHIP), but his peripherals show that Tommy Hanson was one of the best pitchers in the majors in 2009.

Hanson’s K/9 ratio was 8.2 and his K/BB ratio was 2.5. All around, Hanson was dominant in 2009, and no matter how much hype there is, is surprising for a rookie.

2. Adam LaRoche

I have always been a fan of Adam LaRoche. His stance at the plate looks so relaxed, and I love his swing.

While I was disappointed when he was traded, I knew the Braves got good players in return, and quickly forgot about him when Mark Teixeira was in Atlanta.

However, as the Casey Kotchman days dragged on, I longed for the days of LaRoche, but I didn’t ever thing that Braves GM Frank Wren was thinking the same thing.

Due to LaRoche’s knack for performing in the second half, I expected a strong showing when he returned to Atlanta, but I didn’t see his .325/12/40 line in just 212 at bats coming.

LaRoche will be an interesting name on the free agent market this year, but in 2009 he surprised Atlanta not only with his play, but also by being brought back to the Braves.

1. Javier Vazquez

I had a good feeling about Vazquez before the season as seen in this article.

He was coming to the NL, coming to a pitcher’s park, and coming to work with a great manager.

Plus, Javier Vazquez had to put it together, he had always had the stuff and the great peripheral numbers, but never lived up to the expectations placed upon him.

Going into the year, I figured Vazquez would be better than in 2008. I didn’t think he would post numbers that gave him some Cy Young consideration despite sub-par run support.

Vazquez posted a 2.87 ERA and a 15-10 record, and also posted insane K/9 and K/BB ratios (9.8 and 5.41, respectively).

Now seen as major trade bait, Vazquez was the biggest surprise to me in the 2009 season, and that is despite the relatively high expectations I had placed on him in spring training.

Atlanta Braves Must Solve the Nationals to Have a Shot at October

Brett Kettyle — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 14:33:40 -0400

With 10 games left to go in the 2009 season, the Atlanta Braves are currently four games behind the Colorado Rockies in the hunt for the Wild Card.

To say the least, the 2009 season has been extremely frustrating for Braves fans. Whether it be Bobby Cox’s decisions on bullpen management, Yunel Escobar’s lack of hustle or clutch hitting disappearing for games at a time, the Braves have not played as well as they have shown capable in other times throughout the year.

However, the most frustrating thing about the Atlanta Braves (not just in 2009, but the last five years) has been the Braves mediocrity against baseball’s worst team, the Washington Nationals.

Since the Nationals came into existence, the Braves record, head-to-head against them have been 10-9 in 2005, 10-8 in 2006, 11-7 in 2007 and 6-12 in 2009.

6-12? Against the Nationals? A team that won only 59 games all year?

In 2008, the Nationals were above .500 against three teams, and the Braves accounted for over 20 percent of the Nationals wins for the year.

While 2005-2007 were disappointing, 2008 was just a disaster against baseball’s worst team.

2009 has been better, as we are currently 7-4 against the Nationals, who seem to be destined for their second No. 1 overall draft pick in two years.

Regardless of how the Braves do over the last 10 games, it will be difficult to catch the Rockies, but the only way that they have a chance is if they can finally solve the Washington Nationals.

With seven games remaining against the Nationals, the Braves would seem to have the most favorable schedule of any club still competing for a wild card berth, but given the Braves track record against the Nationals, they will face an uphill battle that is greater than expected.

While the Braves need a number of things to go right to even have a shot going into October, they will have to solve the mystery that is the Washington Nationals over the coming days.

With the Game on the Line, the Braves Turned to...Greg Norton?

Brett Kettyle — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 13:01:51 -0400

I consider myself to be a very optimistic person when it comes to sports.

Talk to me about college football and I will tell you how Virginia Tech has a great shot to be in the National Championship if they can just get past Alabama.

Even in the NFL, I will find a way to support the Raiders and create some expectations (yes, when you draft Darrius Heyward-Bey over Michael Crabtree any expectations are a surprise).

The same is true for baseball. Every year others tell me how the Braves season is over while I hold out hope that they can fight their way back into the playoffs.

Unfortunately, the last few years those other people have been right.

I am not saying that the Braves won’t win the wild card, because they obviously still have a shot at only 3.5 games back, but I have lost all hope in the team.

With most of their remaining games against teams that are below .500, normally I would hope that the Braves could storm back and even take the division, never mind the wild card.

But not this year. I have lost hope for the playoffs, and it seems strange not to be expecting some kind of comeback.

To be honest, I don’t think that the change was because of the Braves loss to the Phillies yesterday. I have held out hope on bigger deficits than this before.

No, the reason that I have no hope left for the Braves to make some miraculous comeback within the division is because, in what could prove one of the biggest games of the year, I was sitting in front of my television and rooting like crazy for...Greg Norton.

I know, he’s a professional hitter with a lot of experience and he draws a lot of walks and so on. But how can we expect to go to the playoffs if, with the game on the line, we turn to a guy who has never been a starter for a full season and, despite playing in 80 games this year has yet to record his tenth hit.

I am sure Bobby Cox had his reasons for turning to Greg Norton on Sunday, but putting him up there to pinch hit in that situation has caused me to lose all faith in the Braves this year.

I would love to be proven wrong, but when Greg Norton is our go-to hitter on the bench, I don’t know if it’s possible.

Down On the Farm: Danville Braves Update

Brett Kettyle — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 00:57:36 -0400

This week Down the Farm will continue to review the Braves minor league affiliates and provide an update on the Danville Braves.

The Danville Braves currently have the best record of any team in the Braves system, with a 34-17 record. That comes out to an incredible .680 winning percentage, which gives the D-Braves a 5.5 game lead in the Appalachian League East Division.

Danville is currently the league leader in team ERA, and has scored the third most runs on offense.

Just like the GCL Braves, the biggest news thus far out of Danville is a no-hitter. On August 11, Cory Rasmus, a former first-round pick, threw seven no-hit innings in the second game of a double header.

Rasmus struck out nine, and one walk was the only thing keeping him from a perfect game. Pitching in relief and starting games, Rasmus has pitched well and may finally be living up to the potential that prompted the Braves to make him their top pick way back in 2006.

Rasmus has been unable to stay healthy thus far in his career, but has posted a 2-2 record and a solid 3.32 ERA in 2009. Striking out over a batter per inning, Rasmus simply needs to stay healthy to begin advancing through the Braves system.

Another high potential pitcher currently on Danville’s roster is Tyler Stovall, a second-round pick in 2009. After struggling in 2008, Stovall has been solid in Danville, posting a 2-1 record and 3.81 ERA in 9 starts.

Walks have been a problem so far in 2009, as Stovall has 42 of them in just 37.2 innings pitched.

The Danville pitching staff features plenty of other recent draftees, some of whom are among the league leaders in many categories.

Christopher Masters, an 11th round pick, is leading the Appalachian league in ERA (1.68) and strikeouts (64) in 10 games (eight starts). Although he has just a 5-4 record, Masters has posted an insane 64:4 strikeout to walk ratio in his 53.2 innings.

Second in the league in ERA (1.73) is Brett Oberholtzer, an eighth-round pick in 2008. To go along with a 4-1 record, Oberholtzer also boasts an incredible strikeout to walk ration of 41:5.

Thomas Berryhill, a fifth-round pick in 2009 is second in the league in saves with six. Matthew Crim, the Braves 21st round selection from this year leads the lead in victorie with eight and hasn’t lost a game yet.

Danville also features some impressive hitters on its roster.

Riann Spanjer-Furstenburg (also known as RSF), a 16th round pick who plays first base, is second in the league in batting average (.376) and RBI (43) third in on-base percentage (.427) fourth in slugging percentage (.582) and home runs (seven) and leads the league in total bases (99).

L.V. Ware, who was only drafted in the 43rd round, is in the top ten in the league in batting average and runs scored. His trademark has been his speed, which allows him to cover a lot of ground in the outfield and has gotten him 19 stolen bases, good for second in the league.

Another impressive outfielder on the Danville roster is Cory Harrilchak, a 14th round pick in 2009. Fourth in the league in batting average (.353), fifth in the league in runs (34), seventh in stolen bases (13) and surprisingly, tenth in slugging percentage (.482), Harrilchak has been one of the Braves best all-around players in 2009.

Finally, a candidate to be a future middle infielder in Atlanta, 2009 third-round pick Mycal Jones has played well in his first taste of professional baseball, compiling a .279/362/.475 line with four home runs and 12 stolen bases.

A Letter To the Atlanta Braves: What Team Am I Writing To?

Brett Kettyle — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 22:42:34 -0400

Dear Atlanta Braves,

Please make up your mind.

I cannot tell what to make of you.

After Thursday night’s loss to the Dodgers, I had given up all hope. Then, out of nowhere, clutch hits happen, you win in 12 innings and hope is restored.

It’s been like this all year.

The season started with you going 5-1. You then proceeded to 2-7, including dropping two of three to the Pirates and Nationals.

Then, starting May 6, you went 6-2, winning three series against the real competition in the division (i.e. everyone but the Nationals).

The rest of the season was filled with just as much frustration. Win three, lose four. Win two, lose two.

It’s not just the game results, I can’t remember ever being so confused about where a team is heading.

I know that everyone has their hot and cold streaks; the best teams will struggle and the Nationals will do what they are doing now (currently on a seven game win streak).

As Tommy Lasorda once said, “No matter how good you are, you're going to lose one-third of your games. No matter how bad you are you're going to win one-third of your games. It's the other third that makes the difference.”

54 games is one third of the season, and your record is 56-54. With one third left to play, which team are you?

Will the team with clutch hitting and a great pitching show up the majority of the time? Or will the powerless and punchless lineup and unreliable middle relief sink more of our starters good outings?

I expect each baseball season to end with me living and dying with each pitch in your games, but it shouldn’t be happening this early.

I don’t know if there will be a race for us at the end; I don’t know what to expect anymore.

At this point, the only thing I can ask you for is consistency. If the real Braves team is that of the punchless lineup, so be it; just let me know who you are.

As any fan, I want to watch you go deep into the playoffs, but at this point, I just want to know who you are.

Down on the Farm: GCL Braves Update

Brett Kettyle — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 08:26:31 -0400

As the season continues, Down on the Farm will look at the happenings at each of the Braves six minor league affiliates.

Working up from the lowest levels of professional baseball, we will start with the Rookie level GCL Braves.

On the season, the GCL Braves are currently standing in last place (sixth) in the Gulf Coast League North division, although they are still only 5.5 games back of the division leader. Their record on the season is 17-22.

The biggest thing to happen on the Gulf Coast for the Braves this year was on July 25 when the GCL Braves, led by starting pitcher Caleb Brewer, threw a no-hitter against the GCL Yankees.

In that game, which the Braves won 4-0, Edigson Mora threw four shutout innings in relief to get the win. Andrew Wilson also pitched a no-hit inning to finish the game off.

In a pitching dominated league (14 of 16 teams have a team ERA under 4.00) the Braves have the fourth best team batting average (.254), the most home runs (25) and are second in runs scored (184).

The Braves have the top two home run hitters thus far in the GCL, as outfielder Layton Hiller and first baseman Alberto Odreman are tied for the lead league with six.

Of the two, Hiller is the higher rated prospect, although he was drafted in the 15^th round in 2008 and will have a lot to prove if he is going to play a part in the Atlanta Braves future.

Christian Bethancourt leads the GCL Braves in batting average, hitting .310 (good for 11th in the league).

Just behind Bethancourt in batting average is Kyle Rose, a centerfielder who is hitting .309 and is second in the league with 19 stolen bases. Picked in the eighth round in this year’s draft, Rose is off to a good start in his professional career.

Another hitter to watch on the GCL Braves could be third baseman Jakob Dalfonso. Although he was only drafted in the 18th round, he has been one of the better hitters in the GCL this year, hitting .287 with 16 RBI.

The highest rated prospect currently on the GCL Braves roster is probably Zeke Spruill, who has spent most of his season with the Danville Braves, but made his most recent start on the Gulf Coast.

Spruill, who was drafted in the second round of the 2008 draft, dominated the GCL last year (7-0, 2.93 ERA) and has pitched well between Danville and the GCL Braves this year (9-5, 3.14 ERA). With a great 4.18 walk to strikeout ratio, Spruill is a good young arm in a deep Braves system.

Another young pitcher to keep an eye on, Aaron Northcraft, the Braves 10th round pick in this year’s draft has been solid so far in the GCL. With a 1-1 record and 4.10 ERA, Northcraft is off to a decent start, although his control thus far has been spotty (15 walks in 26.1 innings).

Perhaps the most interesting story on the GCL Braves is that of pitcher Lance Niekro (yes, that name should sound familiar).

The nephew of former Braves great Phil Niekro (and son of Joe Niekro), Lance spent parts of four seasons in the major leagues as a first baseman with the San Francisco Giants before deciding to work on his family’s famous knuckleball.

While he has struggled thus far in 2009, posting a 1-3 record and 5.09 ERA in eight games (three starts), he still has plenty of time to develop as most knuckleball pitchers win more games in their 30s and 40s than in their 20s. Lance might be a player to watch should he gain better control of the knuckler, as his dad and uncle were both great pitchers into their 40s.

Down on the Farm: 16 Innings with the Myrtle Beach Pelicans

Brett Kettyle — Sun, 02 Aug 2009 12:58:08 -0400

Although Down on the Farm will normally come out each Friday, this edition was delayed due to weather, but that wasn’t necessarily a bad thing.

I am currently on vacation in Myrtle Beach, and while here attended a Pelicans game to look at some of the team’s prospects in the lower levels.

Thursday, I stayed at BB&T Coastal Field for two hours of rain, watched the tarp get taken off the field, and then had the umpires decide that the outfield was unplayable.

But Thursday’s bad weather led to an extended viewing of the Pelicans on Friday, July 31, 2009. With two seven-inning games scheduled starting at 6:05, more baseball was on the horizon than originally expected.

The First Game

The first of the two games against the Kinston Indians had Eric Cordier on the mound for the Pelicans.

Cordier has risen on the Braves prospect list after a strong first half of the season with Myrtle Beach. With an ERA under 3.40 at the start of the game, Cordier looks like a solid prospect although lack of control has led many to believe his future could be in the bullpen.

True to form, Cordier quickly walked two batters in the first (as well as scattering a double) although he escaped the inning unharmed.

The Pelicans started off with a bang, and scored two runs in the first inning. Cody Johnson was out of the lineup, and it was good to see the Pelicans offense producing without him.

Center fielder Cole Miles had three hits and two RBI in the game, although he is still only hitting .263 on the season. He has some speed, and despite his 5’8” size has potential to possibly be a fourth outfielder at the major league level.

On the day, Miles legged out two infield singles and showed tremendous hustle.

Second basemen Michael Fisher and right fielder Chris Shehan also had terrific games at the plate with two hits each. Fisher also had a stolen base and a walk. Both of Shehan’s hits were for extra bases (a double and home run).

Fisher was selected by the Braves in the sixth round of the 2007 draft, but struggled hitting in 2008 and is hitting only .240 thus far in 2009.

Shehan has hit well thus far in Myrtle Beach, but he has shown little power or speed. On the year, he is hitting .294 in Myrtle Beach but just .257 overall as he struggled in Rome earlier this year.

Although the Indians closed the gap to one run at one point, the Pelicans quickly got the lead back up to three and stayed in control for most of the game.

Eric Cordier pitched five solid innings, striking out three to go along with three walks and five hits. He allowed two earned runs. With a pitch count of only 84, Cordier likely would have gone further into the game had it not been for a rain delay in the bottom of the fifth inning.

Cordier’s fastball was typically in the 89-93 range, although he hit as high as 94 in both the fourth and fifth innings.

Lee Hyde pitched 1.2 scoreless innings but loaded the bases in the final inning, making the game interesting.

Relief pitching prospect Cory Gearrin got the final out of the game, securing the win for the Pelicans in game one.

Gearrin pitched reasonably well at Mississippi earlier this year, and has dominated at the beach with a 1.04 ERA and 18 strikeouts in 17.1 innings. More impressively, he has walked just one batter over that stretch, and he has 11 saves over that time.

A former fourth round draft pick in 2007, Gearrin could make an impact in Atlanta late in the season in 2010 if he continues to excel at this rate.

The Second Game

Brandon Beachy made his third professional start in the second game and continued to pitch well in Myrtle Beach. He struck out two in the first inning and pitched four shutout innings, allowing only a hit and two walks while striking five.

With 30 strikeouts and only eight walks in Myrtle Beach, Beachy has been impressive and could eventually wind up in a major league bullpen. Throughout the game he was hitting 91-93 and has had great strikeout to walk ratios throughout his professional career.

As an undrafted free agent, it would be a surprise for the Braves if down the road Beachy could help the team.

There wasn’t much offense in the game, as the Indians totaled just three hits. The Pelicans Chris Shehan was the only player in the game with multiple hits. He followed up his 2-for-3 performance with a 3-for-3 game in which he hit two doubles and was intentionally walked.

He also showed great hustle as one of his doubles likely should have been a single.

However, neither team was able to score for the first eight innings (the game was scheduled for seven, so even though nine innings is a standard game, the last two were played as extras).

Benino Pruneda and Tommy Palica both pitched 2+ shutout innings for the Pelicans.

Despite being selected in only the 31st round, Pruneda has continuously pitched well in his seasons with the Braves. Striking out more than a batter per inning at every minor league stop, Pruneda could be on his way up the Braves list as he has major league speed with a fastball that tops out at 95.

Palica has also pitched well at the beach, as he has a 5-1 record and 2.77 ERA in Myrtle Beach. He has already pitched in AA and has had an ERA under 4 at every stop in his professional career.

Michael Fisher had another good game for the Pelicans. He was only 1-for-4 but had two of the day’s top defensive plays with impressive backhand grabs that saved hits and possibly runs.

Shortstop Robert Marcial was the key player of the game. In the fifth inning he failed to lay down a sacrifice bunt, which could have potentially led to a run (the next batter hit a would-be sacrifice fly).

After grounding into a double play in the bottom of the seventh, the Indians intentionally walked Shehan to get to Marcial with two out in the bottom of the ninth.

At about 12:30 in the morning, over seven hours after I arrived at the park, Marcial shocked everyone by knocking a three-run home run that won the game for the Pelicans.

The win went to Tommy Palica and the Pelicans swept the double header.

Other Game Notes

The win improved the Pelicans to 17-18 on the season, just two games out of first place.

Cody Johnson didn’t play either game of the double header, and again is not in the lineup today (Aug. 1).

Could the Braves Counter The Phillies' Move With a Trade For Roy Halladay?

Brett Kettyle — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 14:36:17 -0400

The Philadelphia Phillies just completed a blockbuster trade with the Cleveland Indians in which they acquired 2008 Cy Young winner Cliff Lee.

The trade should help Philadelphia run away with the NL East, and might make them the best team in the National League.

As the Braves are fighting for the wild card, they could still choose to make a push of their own, and one possibility would be that the Braves could attempt to land a former Cy Young winner, Roy Halladay of the Toronto Blue Jays.

I know, it sounds crazy, and I don’t think it will happen, but here is how a potential deal could happen.

The Braves make a trade for Roy Halladay, sending some of their better prospects (although I doubt they would give up Jason Heyward) to the Jays in order to land the ace.

With an abundance of starting pitching already, the Braves would then sell high on Javier Vazquez and add another bat to the lineup, either at first base or in right field.

The Logic Behind the Deal:

The Braves already have a dominant pitching staff, and adding Halladay would make them the clear favorites to win the wild card. Halladay is making about 3 million dollars more than Vazquez, and as well as Vazquez has pitched, Halladay would be an upgrade.

The Braves would then deal Vazquez and possibly Casey Kotchman or Ryan Church to get an upgraded player at either first base or right field, giving the Braves a lineup which would be able to take them to the wild card and an even better rotation to take them deep into the playoffs.

Why It Won’t Happen:

The Blue Jays asking price for Halladay is extremely high, and knowing that the Braves would be reluctant to deal Heyward and possibly Freddie Freeman, it would be hard to pry him from the Jays.

The Braves already have an incredible pitching staff, and they would be taking on extra money to bolster the offense.

Although the Braves would get Halladay for 2010, which would alleviate the need for Vazquez, they would have to give up too many prospects, possibly setting them back in the future.

Additionally, the Braves have said that they are out of money for 2009, and this trade would likely put them over their budget.

If the Braves are still looking to make a move to bolster their offense, there would be simpler and cheaper ways that adding Roy Halladay, although it wouldn’t make as big of an impact.

The Verdict:

Any trade that would allow the Braves to add Halladay in place of Vazquez and still upgrade the lineup would make the Braves the clear favorites in the Wild Card and maybe give them a shot to catch the Phillies in 2009.

However, if the Braves are simply looking to add offense, there will be much cheaper means of doing so, even if the impact wouldn’t be as great.

Big Trades In Braves History: Braves Lay the Foundation Of a Dynasty

Brett Kettyle — Sat, 25 Jul 2009 14:50:12 -0400

The Trade:

The Atlanta Braves send Doyle Alexander to the Detroit Tigers for John Smoltz

During the 1987 season, the Atlanta Braves were easily out of contention, and decided to trade starting pitcher Doyle Alexander to the Detroit Tigers for a young starting pitcher named John Smoltz.

The Tigers were in a heated division race, and needed to add an extra arm to battle the Toronto Blue Jays.

The Players:

Doyle Alexander was in the middle of a respectable campaign in 1987, playing in his 17^th major league season. Although he had a 5-10 record, he had a respectable 4.13 ERA.

Acquired by Atlanta in the middle of the 1986 season, following two seventeen win campaigns while with the Blue Jays, Alexander was a veteran pitcher that the Tigers targeted to make a run at the postseason.

Alexander provided immediate dividends to the Tigers, as he posted an astounding 9-0 record and 1.53 ERA while with the team, which ended up winning their division by two games over the Blue Jays.

Although he helped get the Tigers into the playoffs, Alexander went 0-2 against Minnesota in the ALCS and the Tigers were sent home.

Alexander pitched for just two more years. Although he was an all-star in 1988, he finished with just a 14-11 record and a 4.32 ERA. In 1989 he posted another respectable ERA, but had a league leading 18 losses in his final season.

John Smoltz was a 22^nd round draft pick of the Detroit Tigers in 1985, and he pitched well despite a 7-8 record in the minors in 1986.

During the 1987 season, in which the trade was made, Smoltz was struggling in AA Glen Falls before the trade, and continued to struggle in AAA Richmond for the Braves after.

In 1988, Smoltz turned a corner while continuing to pitch for AAA Richmond. He was 10-5 with a sub-3.00 ERA which earned him a late-season promotion to Atlanta.

Smoltz proved he belonged in the majors in 1989 while posting a 12-11 record and a 2.94 ERA as a rookie. He also made his first all-star team in 1989 (equaling the total that Alexander made in his entire career).

After a solid 1990 season, Smoltz played an integral part in the worst to first Braves of 1991.

Smoltz was the only player on all of Atlanta’s division winning teams in the 90s and 2000s.

A sure Hall-of-Famer, Smoltz has proved a outstanding pitcher whether in the starting rotation or coming out of the bullpen.

He finished his 20 year career with the Braves with a 211-150 record, a 3.28 ERA and 154 saves. He led the league in strikeouts, wins and winning percentage twice.

The Verdict:

Alexander was definitely an integral part of the Tigers making it to the 1987 playoffs, and without the addition of his arm to the rotation, the Tigers likely would have been sitting home that October.

However, Smoltz ended up being an Atlanta icon and a dominant pitcher for the better part of two decades while wearing a tomahawk across his chest. A huge part of 15 division titles, and a member of the Braves big three, Smoltz impact was just as great and lasted longer than Alexander’s.

Although the Tigers accomplished their short term goals. The Atlanta Braves became the clear winners of this trade as Smoltz went on to dominate hitters for 20 years.

Big Trades in Atlanta Braves History: Braves Add the Crime Dog

Brett Kettyle — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 21:16:06 -0400

The Trade:

San Diego Padres traded Fred McGriff to the Atlanta Braves for Vince Moore, Donnie Elliot, and Melvin Nieves

During the season in 1993, the Braves had a solid lineup but went into the playoff race looking to upgrade the first base position, which was being occupied by Sid Bream.

With Ron Gant (who ended the year with 36 home runs) and David Justice (who ended the year with 40 home runs) already in the lineup, one more good run producer might have been enough to send the Braves to a World Series championship. (We now know it wasn’t.)

The Players:

Fred McGriff

Heading into the 1993 season, Fred McGriff had established himself as one of the premier sluggers in the Major Leagues, averaging 34 home runs through his first five full seasons in the Majors.

With the Padres in 1993, McGriff was off to a mediocre start, as his slugging percentage was under .500, and he was hitting only .275 at the time of the trade.

The day he arrived in Atlanta, the press box caught on fire at Atlanta Fulton Country Stadium, and with McGriff's bat in the lineup, the Braves caught on fire and closed a 9.5-game gap between themselves and the San Francisco Giants.

McGriff was a great boost to the Atlanta offense in 1993, hitting .310 and knocking 19 home runs in 63 games with the club, which would go on to lead the majors in both home runs and wins.

However, through the 1997 season, McGriff was valuable asset for Atlanta. From 1994 to 1997, McGriff hit .291 with 111 home runs and 391 RBI.

During his Atlanta tenure, McGriff led the team in both home runs and RBI twice and finished second in those categories three times.

Melvin Nieves

At the time of the trade, Nieves had only 19 Major League at bats, all from 1992.

His main trade value came as a result of his breakout 1992 minor league season, in which he hit 26 home runs over two levels of play.

Called up in 1993 with the Padres, Nieves hit only .191 in 47 at bats. He didn’t have more than 100 at bats until 1995, when he hit 14 home runs despite having only a .205 batting average in 234 at bats.

Eventually traded by the Padres to the Tigers (and then by the Tigers to the Reds), Nieves played over 100 games just twice in his career.

Although, in those years (both with Detroit), he hit 44 homers in only 790 at bats.

Still, he was unable to gain regular playing time due to his low (.238 in those years) batting average.

Vince Moore

At the time of the trade, Moore was in advanced A-ball.

Moore was another outfielder, and most of his trade value likely came from his strong start to the 1993 season, in which he was hitting .292 with 14 home runs and 21 stolen bases for Durham.

However, Moore never made it up to the major leagues. After the 1993 season, he never batted more higher than .256 while in the minor leagues, and he lost most of the power that he displayed in 1993.

Donnie Elliot

Traded to the Braves in 1992, Elliot had shown promise as a starting pitcher by dominating in Double-A throughout the 1992 season. After moving into the Atlanta organization, Elliot finished 1992 with a 7-2 record and 2.08 ERA for the Double-A Greenville Braves.

However, a mediocre start to the 1993 season demonstrated Elliot's inflated value, and he finished terribly after moving to the Padres organization.

However, Elliot pitched in the majors for the Padres in 1994, and he had a 3.27 ERA in 30 games (one start). However, control was an issue, as he walked 21 batters in 33 innings.

In 1995, Elliot pitched in one more major league game, but even then, he was unable to find the dominance he showed in 1992.

The Verdict:

This was a great trade for the Braves. McGriff was a force in their lineup and was a key player on the Braves' 1995 World Series championship team and during their division-title streak.

None of the players that the Braves traded away amounted to much, as Nieves was the most successful player despite never hitting over .250 in a season with more than 100 games played.

Atlanta Braves Midseason Grades: Outfield

Brett Kettyle — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 15:49:41 -0400

It’s just past the unofficial halfway point in the baseball season, and most teams are deciding whether or not they have what it takes to make a run at the postseason before the trade deadline at the end of the month.

The Braves are currently standing at 45-45, six games back of the division leading Phillies.

For the next part of this first half review, I will look at the performance the Braves received from the outfield on the season. All stat lines will be AVG/OBP/SLG/HR/RBI/SB, and include only stats before the All-Star break.

The outfield has been the biggest area of concern for the Braves. Two of three starting outfielders are already gone from the team (one in the minors, one traded to our biggest rival) and the other has battled injuries.

For the Braves to make a run at the division title they will need better production from their group of outfielders in the second half.

Garret Anderson: .272/.304/.397/5/32/1

After the Braves missed on Ken Griffey Jr., they went out and signed Anderson to be the starting left fielder. Despite not having tremendous power, Anderson had been a consistent run producer throughout his 15 year career with the Angels.

After battling through injuries and a slow start, Anderson hit .286 in May and followed that up by hitting over .300 in June.

Anderson’s defense leaves a lot to be desired, and it would be nice to see his slugging percentage rise, but through the first half of 2009 Anderson was the most consistent of the original starters in the Outfield.

Mid-Season Grade: C

Jordan Schafer: .204/.313/.287/2/8/2

After an impressive spring training, Schafer won the starting centerfield job and prompted the Braves to trade Josh Anderson to Detroit.

Schafer started his major league career off with a boom, hitting a home run in his first at-bat.

However, Schafer quickly fell back to earth and looked over matched by big league pitching. Although he kept his on-base percentage over .300, Schafer’s first taste of big league action was rather forgettable.

Schafer was terrific on defense, but that wasn’t enough to save him from the mounting strikeout totals he was posting as the starting centerfielder.

By the beginning of June, Schafer was on his way back to the minors and the Braves were searching for a new centerfielder.

Mid-Season Grade: D

Jeff Francoeur: .250/.282/.352/5/35/5 (with Atlanta)

When some notable Braves writers and I participated in a round-table discussion before the baseball season started, we predicted that Francoeur would hit .274 with 24 home runs and 98 RBI, seemingly modest numbers for a kid who graced the cover of Sports Illustrated as “The Natural” when he was only a rookie.

However, Francoeur was unable to rebound from his terrible 2008 and seemed to stay locked in the slump that had frustrated so many Braves fans just a year ago.

His rifle arm in the outfield was great, but his pathetic production prompted the Braves to trade him for an outfielder who is 5 years older, has a career high of 15 home runs, and plays for the Braves biggest rival.

Mid-Season Grade: F

Nate McLouth: .288/.349/.500/5/15/4 (with Atlanta)

After Jordan Schafer proved incapable of handling the everyday centerfield duties, the Braves opted to trade for the Pittsburgh Pirates centerfielder, Nate McLouth to bolster their struggling offense.

Hitting better in Atlanta than he did in Pittsburgh, McLouth gives the Braves an added shot of power and speed that they surely needed.

Currently being used in the leadoff spot, McLouth has crossed home plate many times and should be consistent run producer and upgrade in the outfield for the next few years.

Mid-Season Grade: A

Matt Diaz: .301/.375/.462/4/22/4

When Diaz has gotten chances to play this year, he has continued to hit the way that would have made him an everyday player last year had he not been injured.

With the addition of Ryan Church, Diaz looks like he will platoon in right field and continue to occasionally spell Garret Anderson in left.

Since coming to Atlanta in 2006, Diaz has hit .315 in 950 at bats, while providing a decent amount of power from one of the corner outfield spots.

With potential for double digit home runs and even stolen bases despite only being a part time player, Diaz’s continued success could be huge for the Braves in the second half of the season.

Mid-Season Grade: A

Ryan Church: .274/.324/.365/2/36/6 (with New York and Atlanta)

Church, who was acquired for Jeff Francoeur, could be a big boost to Atlanta’s offense, not because of what he adds, but because of what he takes away.

By hitting for a solid average, Church should help fill the void in the Braves lineup previously known as Jeff Francoeur. Although he is only 1-9 in his games with Atlanta before the All-Star break, the move away from Citi field should help the outfielder raise his offensive numbers.

Church didn’t get along well with Mets management, so the move to the Braves seems like it will benefit both Church and the Braves greatly.

Mid-Season Grade: Incomplete

Gregor Blanco, Brandon Jones and Brian Barton

These players all had less than 50 at-bats with the Braves in the first half of 2009 and were in Atlanta for only a short period of time.

Blanco struggled, hitting only .186 while filling in for an injured Nate McLouth and getting some playing time after Jordan Schafer was demoted.

Brandon Jones performed the best of the three, hitting .308 in 13 at-bats, although all of his hits were singles.

Brian Barton, acquired from St. Louis for Blaine Boyer, only got in 1 game with the Braves and was caught stealing. He has no at-bats on the season.

Catcher Midseason Grades

Infield Midseason Grades

Down on the Farm: How Have the Braves Top Prospects Fared in 2009 Part 2

Brett Kettyle — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:05:14 -0400

In the second edition of Down on the Farm, I will continue to examine the players who were ranked as the Braves top prospects to begin the 2009 season.

Of the top 10 prospects, two are currently in the majors, one has played in the majors and two have been traded to a different organization. This will be the second part of the breakdown of the Braves top-10 prospects coming into the season, reviewing the Braves prospects ranked 6-10 of 2009.

Cole Rohrbough (SP): After a dazzling first year in professional baseball in 2007, Rohrbough shot up the Braves prospects lists. Despite a mediocre 2008, many still saw Rohrbough as a future starter in the Atlanta rotation.

Thus far in 2009, Rohrbough has yet to find his groove, posting an ERA just under 6 in 12 games started. Batters are hitting .304 against him, and his BABIP is well above league average. A regression to the mean should so some improvement in Rohrbough’s stats, but he will need to step up to live up to the number 5 ranking in the Braves system.

Cole pitched better in the second half of the 2008 campaign, and hopefully will be able to do the same in 2009.

ETA in Majors: 2011

Jeff Locke (SP): Locke, along with Hernandez (who was mentioned in the first part of Down on the Farm) was traded to the Pirates in the deal that brought Nate McLouth to Atlanta.

Like Rohrbough, Locke is another highly touted prospect who has yet to live up to his tremendous promise, although this could be mainly due the injuries he has battled in his brief pro career.

This year, for two different high-A teams, Locke has a 2-7 record with an ERA of 5.23 in 17 starts. Control has been an issue in 2009, as he has 35 walks in 78.1 innings after only 38 in 139.2 innings last year.

The Pirates will need Locke to improve to get what they expected from the McLouth trade.

Julio Teheran (SP): Only 18 years old, scouts raved about Teheran’s amazing arm before last season.

However, 2008 saw Teheran struggle in six starts, as he posted a 6.60 ERA.

2009 has been a different story, as it appears Julio is beginning to live up to his high ranking. In five starts with the Danville Braves (Class A) Teheran has posted a 1-0 record with a 2.05 ERA. Even more astounding is his 6:1 K/BB ratio

Armed with a mid-90s fastball and a plus curveball and change-up, Teheran is still extremely young, and could one day blossom into a top of the rotation starter if he lives up to the hype.

ETA in Majors: 2012

Kris Medlen (SP): Called up to the Majors earlier this year to replace Jo-Jo Reyes, Medlan was demoted to the bullpen when the Braves decided Tommy Hanson was ready.

Medlen absolutely dominated AAA hitters, posting a 1.19 ERA and a 5-0 record before getting the call to Atlanta. With a 44:10 K/BB ratio, Medlen looked ready to succeed in the majors.

As it stands now, Medlen has a 2-3 record with a 5.85 ERA in Atlanta (four starts and seven relief appearances). Walks have hurt Medlen in the majors, but he still has promise and could be a possible trade chip should the Braves look to bring another bat to Atlanta.

His best outing was in his third start, when Medlen pitched six innings of one-run ball against the Arizona Diamondbacks while striking out nine batters.

Craig Kimbrel (RP): Currently being groomed as a future closer, Kimbrel was phenomenal in his first year and a half of pro baseball before finally struggling with his first taste of high-A ball.

After posting 10 saves and a 0.90 ERA in Rome (along with a ridiculous 38 strikeouts in only 20 innings), Kimbrel was promoted to Myrtle Beach.

In 15 games at the Beach, Kimbrel has struggled with a 6.98 ERA as he has had control issues while walking 26 batters in just 19.1 innings (although he is still striking out batters at a prolific rate).

A good sign is that Kimbrel has improved each month he has been in high-A, and in five July appearances he has yet to allow a run.

Only 21, the future looks bright for Kimbrel if he can keep his pitches under control.

ETA in Majors: 2011

Here is the first part of the Series, featuring the Braves top-five prospects

Atlanta Braves Mid-Season Grades: Infield

Brett Kettyle — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 22:55:30 -0400

It’s the unofficial halfway point in the baseball season, and most teams are deciding whether or not they have what it takes to make a run at the postseason before the trade deadline at the end of the month.

The Braves are currently standing at 43-45, six games back of the division-leading Phillies.

For the next part of this first half review, I will look at the performance the Braves received from the infield on the season.

All stat lines will be AVG/OBP/SLG/HR/RBI/SB

Casey Kotchman: .274/.346/.395/4/31/0

Kotchman has never been a prototypical first baseman, and his power numbers leave something to be desired. A career .270 hitter, Kotchman is one of the worst offensive first basemen in the league.

While his defense is well above average, having Kotchman at first is one of the reasons that the Braves offense is among the worst in the league in scoring runs.

Kotchman’s four homeruns are the lowest of any qualified first baseman in the National League, and his 31 RBI are next to last. Despite being pegged as a good hitter for average, he is only eighth among NL first basemen.

Mid-Season Grade: C-

Kelly Johnson: .214/.286/.359/5/20/4

Johnson opened the season as the Braves starting second baseman and there were big things expected for him after hitting .398 with an OPS over 1.000 last September. However, 2009 hasn’t shaped up the way anyone expected.

Although he always seemed to keep a good on-base percentage, Kelly has struggled in just about every offensive facet of the game—and as always—his defense at second base leaves something to be desired.

Although Kelly is now on a rehab assignment, he was already being replaced as the second basemen by Martin Prado (and had lost playing time to Omar Infante earlier in the year).

Thus far in Gwinnett, Johnson has continued to struggle, hitting only .238 in 21 at-bats. With the emergence of Brooks Conrad, Johnson might have an extended stay in the minors unless he turns it around.

Mid-Season Grade: F

Chipper Jones: .290/.411/.467/9/41/1

With John Smoltz gone, Chipper became the leader of the team that he has played for his entire MLB career. Coming off his first batting title, Jones has put up respectable numbers thus far in 2009, although he hasn’t driven in as many runs as expected.

The Braves leader in homeruns, Jones is also in the top three on the Braves in the other two triple crown categories.

Jones defense has been much worse than last year, as he has 13 errors thus far this year, which was his total from last year.

The most important thing for Chipper thus far is that he has played in 91.7 percent of the team's games (77 out of 84), putting himself on pace for 149 games played, which would be his most since 2003.

If he stays healthy, Chipper should improve on his numbers a little, as he has hit .015 points higher after the all-star break in his Hall-of-Fame career.

Mid-Season Grade: B+

Yunel Escobar: .293/.355/.435/7/44/3

What a year it has been for Escobar.

He has played exceptionally well on offense—leading the Braves in RBI, and ranking second in batting average and third in homeruns. His defense has been amazing at times, although his decision making has made us all shake our heads at times. He has already gotten himself into, and then out of, Bobby Cox’s doghouse.

To think, we are only half way through the year.

On pace to set career highs in just about every offensive category, he has proven he belongs in the same grouping as the other elite NL East shortstops.

Unfortunately, Escobar is on pace to make more errors this year, and hopefully will be able to play more consistent defense in the second half.

A huge surprise run producer for the Braves, it’s hard to imagine how bad the Braves offense would be without his bat in the lineup almost every day.

Mid-Season Grade: A

Martin Prado: .330/.394/.495/4/18/0

The biggest offensive surprise so far this season, Prado has hit his way into a starting role at second base.

Although Prado has little power or speed, he has picked up right where he left off last season when he hit .320. Prado hit .359 to earn the starting second base job in June, and has been ever better thus far in July, hitting .412.

With a higher Zone Rating than Kelly Johnson, Prado is an upgrade on defense at second base, and he has also been a huge asset filling in at other positions (third and first) for the Braves.

While Prado is bound to cool off, he has definitely earned the starting job because of his astounding play thus far in the 2009 season.

Mid-Season Grade: A+

Omar Infante

Although he has only 86 at bats this season due to injury, Infante was still a big player in the first half of the Braves season as he was hitting .349 while playing.

Infante will hopefully be off the DL before July is over, as he is a versatile player who can play six different position for the Braves.

Mid-Season Grade: Incomplete, but on pace for an A

Diory Hernandez

Hernandez has seen his first Major League action in 2009 and has struggled, hitting only .149 in 67 at bats. He can play all over the infield, and may be a key utility player in the near future, but will likely only be in Atlanta until Infante (or possibly Kelly Johnson) is ready to return.

Mid-Season Grade: Incomplete

Brooks Conrad

Still a rookie at age 29, Conrad is getting to play some in Atlanta this year after getting his cup of coffee with the Oakland A’s last year.

Hitting .358 with two home runs in just 50 at bats, Conrad has been a nice surprise when he has gotten to play, and could figure into playing time for the Braves this fall.

Mid-Season Grade: Incomplete but on pace for an A

Greg Norton

Why Greg Norton is still in the Major Leagues perplexes me. The Braves shouldn’t have resigned him, and he has rewarded them this year by hitting .095 in his 42 at bats. Although he did deal with an injury which he recently returned from, Norton has almost no value and should not be in Atlanta.

Mid-Season Grade: F

Barbaro Canizares

Canizares has just 17 at bats in Atlanta, but has tore up minor league pitching this year, and would definitely be an upgrade to Greg Norton on the bench.

Mid-Season Grade: Incomplete

Atlanta Braves Mid-Season Grades: Catchers

Brett Kettyle — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 22:22:18 -0400

The Braves are currently standing at 43-45, 6 games back of the division-leading Phillies.

To start this first half review, I will look at the performance the Braves received from the catchers on the season. All stat lines will be AVG/OBP/SLG/HR/RBI/SB

Starting Catcher: Brian McCann: .298/.375/.487/8/37/3

Despite struggling with vision problems early in the season, McCann has continued to produce at an all-star level, and remains the top offensive catcher in the National League.

McCann leads regular NL starting catchers in all the ratios, is second in RBI, tied for third in homeruns and is surprisingly also tied for third in stolen bases.

While his offensive numbers were expected, McCann has also improved his defense, raising his caught stealing percentage to a career high .264 (which isn’t great, but is an improvement).

Mid-Season Grade: A

Backup Catcher(s): David Ross: .278/.375/.533/6/15/0, and Clint Sammons

Ross was signed as a backup in the offseason, and has been one of the biggest surprises off the Braves' bench. Ross has hit a respectable .278 and added 6 homers, while getting some starts when McCann was dealing with his vision problems.

Ross’ 6 homeruns put him fourth on the team, which is surprising as he has less than 100 at-bats on the season. If the Braves are unable to acquire a big bat, one solution that could add more power to the Braves lineup would be if Ross could play first base a couple of times a week.

Ross’ biggest asset has been his defense. He has thrown out 14 of 30 would-be base-stealers, which gives him the best percentage among NL catchers with at least 30 attempts.

Sammons only played in a couple of games in the majors, going 1-5 with a walk in three games.

Mid-Season Grade: A+

Three Possible Solutions For the MLB All-Star Game

Brett Kettyle — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 19:28:35 -0400

It’s that time of year again baseball fans. The time when Red Sox and Yankee fans are in full force getting Dustin Pedroia and Derek Jeter (although Jeter did deserve to go this year) to start the All-Star game despite better options being out there.

Most fans know that no matter how much Curtis Granderson is the model of what a baseball player should be, he doesn’t deserve to make the team with his .254 batting average.

Josh Hamilton was a great story and killed the ball in the Homerun Derby last year, but when you play in less than half of your teams games and hit under .250 you are probably closer to a minor league assignment than being an all-star.

Sure, Tim Wakefield has had a great career and done so much for Boston, but 11 wins and an ERA over 4 means you have a good offense, not that you are one of the best pitchers in the game.

Even tonight, Jair Jurrjens is going up against Jason Marquis. Obviously Marquis is the better and more deserving pitcher despite having an ERA that is nearly a point higher. Only in Steve Phillips’ slanted world is Jair Jurrjens (and also Johan Santana) to blame for his lack of run support.

The list goes on and on, I’m sure you would love the opportunity to insert your favorite all-star snubbing here…

At this point it’s clear that all fan voting does is cater to the fans who blindly vote with their favorite team and create a popularity contest among fans.

The solution can’t be in letting players and managers decide, as they too seem to be unaware of the statistics which measure their play. Sorry Terry Francona, a .220 hitting Jason Varitek didn’t deserve to make the all-star team last year even if he is one of your guys.

Plus any problem with the pitching staff (and there always are) is due to those inside the game of baseball.

Even when the MLB selects 5 players to go to the final vote, it means nothing for the guys who don’t get in. Although Matt Kemp and Adam Lind are outfielders who weren’t selected in the final vote, they weren’t the outfielders chosen to replace injured players on both teams.

Nelson Cruz will play for the AL (alright, another undeserving Texas outfielder) and Charlie Manuel’s boy Jason Werth will go for the NL (I’m sure the fact that he plays for the Phillies is just a coincidence).

Finally, the rule that every team should have a player shouldn’t exist. Ryan Zimmerman is a good player, but Pablo Sandoval is more deserving. The same can be said for a number of outfielders (like Matt Kemp) when put up against Hunter Pence.

Now, instead of writing thousands upon thousands of more words about the problems of the All-Star game, I will give three solutions. While there will always be debates because only so many players can go, these solutions could at least lessen big joke that the All-Star game currently is.

Let the All-Star Game Count for Nothing Again

So what if it happens to end in a tie again, at least it won’t mean undeserving players putting their leagues world series chances at stake.

There was no problem with it this way, some say that players will play harder because it “matters”. How does this game matter to Ryan Zimmerman or Zack Greinke.

People will still watch the All-Star game and at least when fans complain about who gets selected it won’t matter as much because the game doesn’t mean anything, it is only for fan entertainment.

Make A Selection Committee

Follow the NCAA basketball approach and name a committee that will be responsible for selecting the All-Star team.

Sure, there will be arguments but at least the committee can try and look only at statistics and eliminate the popularity contest aspect of the game.

While the committee members may have some bias, picking a committee of informed people inside Major League front offices could help to reduce the amount of undeserving players there. If each team sent one representative to their leagues committee, no team would be able to simply win a popularity contest, although people trading votes would likely occur.

Create A Formula

Instead of looking at NCAA Basketball, we will switch to NCAA football. Create a formula which can use players statistical contributions to select who the best are. While there will be arguments (especially over what the formula is) a formula could use more sabermetric stats which are often overlooked by casual fans.

The formula would be unbiased, and could be tweaked like the current BCS to allow human (either fans or players/coaches) to have input into who is eventually selected.

While I am undecided on which of these options I think is the best, I would rather have these then the current system where any and everyone seems to have a shot to make the All-Star team no matter what their actual on-field performance looks like.

Down on the Farm: How Have the Atlanta Braves Top Prospects Fared in 2009

Brett Kettyle — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 23:05:31 -0400

Starting today, each Friday Down on the Farm will review the happenings in the Atlanta Braves minor league system. To kick things off, I thought I would examine the players who were ranked as the Braves top prospects to begin the 2009 season.

Of the top 10 prospects, two are currently in the majors, one has played in the majors and two have been traded to a different organization. This will be the first part of the breakdown of the Braves top 10 prospects coming into the season, reviewing the Braves top five prospects of 2009.

Tommy Hanson (SP): Just about everything had been said about Hanson after he dominated the Arizona Fall League while becoming the first pitcher ever to win its MVP award. After impressing in Spring Training, the club decided to give him a little more time to mature in AAA.

In Gwinnett, Hanson posted just a 3-3 record despite having a 1.49 ERA and 90 strikeouts in 66.1 innings of work.

On June 7 Hanson made his debut against the Brewers and was hit hard. Since his first start, Hanson has pitched much better and has a record of 4-0 with a 2.85 ERA. While Hanson has had some control issues at times in Atlanta, a 4-0 record with a sub-3.00 ERA are amazing numbers from a rookie.

Jason Heyward (RF): Rated as the top prospect in all of baseball in Baseball America’s mid-season rankings, Heyward showed some of his potential while playing with the Braves in Spring Training.

After a strong start to his 2009 season with the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, Heyward was recently promoted to AA Mississippi and has continued hitting the ball well.

In total Heyward has produced a .300/.378/.529 line this year to go along with 10 Homeruns and 37 RBI. Although he hasn’t run as much (just 4 attempts as compared to 18 all of last year) Heyward is continuing to show why Braves fans are eagerly awaiting his MLB debut.

ETA in Majors: 2010

Jordan Schafer (CF): After a strong showing in Spring Training prompted the Braves to send Josh Anderson to the Tigers, Schafer started the 2009 season off with a bang by hitting a Homerun in his first Major League at-bat.

The struggles soon started for Schafer as he went on to post a .204/.313/.287 line with an alarming 63 strikeouts in only 167 at-bats at the Major League Level.

Although his defense is still top notch, Schafer has struggled at the plate since being demoted to AAA Gwinnett, where he is hitting only .229. He did deal with an injury after going down to the minors, so hopefully he will regain his stroke in the second half of the season.

Projected as the future leadoff hitter for the Braves, Schafer might have to be moved to left field in 2010 now that the Braves have acquired Nate McLouth from the Pirates to play center. If Schafer turns things around, he should be back in Atlanta in 2010.

Gorkys Hernandez (CF): Blessed with amazing speed, Hernandez was seen as a potential future leadoff man for the Braves. However, he was traded to the Pirates in the deal that brought Nate McLouth to Atlanta.

On two different AA teams, Hernandez has posted a .296/.343/.378 line in 2009 with 12 stolen bases. However, despite his amazing speed, Hernandez has also been caught stealing 11 times, and might need better base-running coaching if he is to eventually become an elite speedster in the Majors.

Freddie Freeman (1B): Jason Heyward’s partner in crime, Freddie Freeman has continued to hit well in 2009. Like Heyward, he was recently promoted to AA Mississippi after starting the season in Myrtle Beach.

He has produced a solid .302/.393/.445 line so far this year. Although his power numbers are down a little from 2008, Freeman still is on track to become the Braves first baseman of the future.

Although the Braves have been bringing him and Heyward up together (the two were born only three days apart and have moved through the minors together) Freeman likely will need more time in the minors than Heyward.

Freeman will likely be ready before Casey Kotchman becomes a free agent (after 2011) and I can’t see the Braves making him wait an extra year in the minors as he should one day prove an excellent offensive upgrade to Kotchman.

ETA in Majors: 2011

Matt Diaz Deserves to Start in Right Field Right Now

Brett Kettyle — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 15:55:16 -0400

While playing a three game series against the Washington Nationals this weekend, the Braves faced three left-handed pitchers.

In the second and third games of the series, the Braves left Jeff Francoeur on the bench while starting Matt Diaz in right field and Garret Anderson in left field.

Despite the fact that Diaz hits much better against lefties than righties, the Braves should be using Diaz as an everyday right fielder as long as the only other option is Jeff Francoeur.

Despite all signs pointing to a bounce back year by Francoeur, he has been a disaster at the plate this year. His 290 at bats have produced a .245./.278/.341 line.

Throughout his career, Diaz has been a platoon player who plays mainly against left-handed starting pitchers. In his career (548 at bats), Diaz has hit .332 against lefties, so it makes sense why teams would always let him play against a southpaw.

However, many don’t realize that Diaz has more than held his own against right-handed pitchers. In 504 attempts against righties, Diaz has hit a respectable .286. While his slugging percentage against righties is only .393, he still would be a much better option than Francoeur.

The Braves will likely continue to look for right field options outside the organization. Diaz should be the everyday starter, regardless of the opposing pitcher.

At this point, almost any option is better than Jeff Francoeur. Despite his reputation as a platoon player, Diaz has shown he can hit right-handed pitching throughout his major league career.

The Braves are scheduled to face all right-handed starters through the all-star break and Matt Diaz should get a chance to prove that he is the best right field option the Braves have currently.

Atlanta Braves Weekly Review: June 22-28

Brett Kettyle — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 00:30:09 -0400

Atlanta Braves Week 12 Review

Overall Record: 35-40

Weekly Record: 3-4

Streak: Won 1

Standing: Fourth Place, Five Games Back

Week In Review

Despite a good start to the week with wins over the Chicago Cubs and New York Yankees, the Braves quickly fell apart, at one point dropping four in a row.

The offense was terrible this week, scoring only three runs in as many games against the Boston Red Sox, and only 2.86 runs a game for the week as a whole.

This past week, a number of Braves were hit with either an injury or an illness.

Nate McLouth injured his hamstring on a bunt attempt and has not played since. He is still listed as day-to-day, and, hopefully will be back in the lineup during the series against the Philadelphia Phillies.

Yunel Escobar has taken a seat on the bench due to an injured hip, although he has been on Bobby Cox’s bad side with a couple of boneheaded plays in the field recently. Escobar is also day-to-day, but should see action against Philadelphia.

Early in the week, Kelly Johnson left a game with leg cramps, but has since returned to the lineup.

Kenshin Kawakami was struck in the neck with a line drive in his start against the Yankees. Although he left the game, he is scheduled to make his next regular start.

Tommy Hanson was sent home on Saturday with the flu, but came to the ballpark well enough to pitch on Sunday and managed to win his fourth-straight start in the process.

Statistical Leaders (Qualified Players)

Batting Average—Yunel Escobar (.291)

Home Runs—Chipper Jones (9)

RBI—Yunel Escobar (39)

Runs—Yunel Escobar (39)

Stolen Bases—Jeff Francoeur (5)

OPS—Chipper Jones (.880)

Wins—Derek Lowe (7)

ERA—Jair Jurrjens (2.93)

Strikeouts—Javier Vazquez (125)

WHIP—Javier Vazquez (1.06)

Saves—Mike Gonzalez (9)

Holds—Peter Moylan (11)

Players of the Week

Usually, there would be one hitter and one pitcher named player of the week. But this week the offense produced no standouts, so two pitchers were selected instead.

Tommy Hanson: 2-0, 11.1 IP, 0 ER, 6 H, 7 BB, 6 K

Javier Vazquez: 1-1, 14.1 IP, 1 ER, 15 H, 5 BB, 13 K

On Deck

The Braves face the Phillies from June 30-July 2, then travel to Washington to play the Nationals from July 3-5.

The Real Problem Behind Johan Santana's Run Support: Opposing Pitchers

Brett Kettyle — Tue, 12 May 2009 14:32:44 -0400

The Monday Night Baseball game on May 12 (in which the Atlanta Braves beat the New York Mets) reminded me of a couple things.

Derek Lowe can pitch like an ace when needed, even if he doesn’t strike people out; he can get so many grounders it is ridiculous.

Jerry Manuel is a terrible manager. Pedro Feliciano is a lefty specialist, and Matt Diaz is a platoon player who destroys lefties. The bullpen gets the blame, but this one was on Manuel.

Steve Phillips has officially become my least favorite announcer (congratulations to Tim McCarver, who falls from that spot).

I somehow dealt with his billion references to when he was the Mets GM. I got through his million jokes about the time difference when games were being played in Japan last year.

I didn’t even promote him due to his discussion of Mr. Met's anatomy (he is a mascot; he doesn’t have to be anatomically correct to function). But his logic on the Mets not scoring for Johan Santana may be the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard.

This is roughly what he said. I took out the play by play and probably left out a couple of insignificant words while trying to copy this off ESPN 360.

“You know, we're talking about the run support for a pitcher, and I believe that pitchers often earn their run support, and here is why. I was in the front office for 13 years, at every home game, for many of the road games up in the box, and you start to feel the pattern of the game for each of the starting pitchers.

"Over the course of time it seemed to me there the same guys started to get runs, there was a pattern and rhythm to their game, and the same guys didn't get runs because of the pattern and rhythm to their game.”

Orel Hershiser then asked if Santana had a bad pattern or rhythm for an offense, and Phillips responded with this:

“I think it is the feel of his game. Whether it’s his teammates...I don't think it’s a conscious thing. Players always go, 'Nah, there is no way, there is no way,' but I see it, I feel it every time you watch games. They don't hit for Santana.

"I think part of it is because he is the ace on the mound. They think it’s a low-scoring game, he is not going to give up runs. It’s just this rhythm of the game that he has. Steve Trachsel used to pitch for the Mets, the slowest worker ever. He never got run support, and I think he earned it.”

Honestly, it’s a waste of time to try to make any sense out of what Phillips said, but it did get me interested in looking further into the Mets' performance in Santana’s games.

Most people will bring up three things when discussing Santana’s record: lack of run support, bad defense, and a bad bullpen.

While I don’t have a lot of statistical evidence to explain the last two, I do think that there are reasons to explain why Santana seems to suffer from them more than other pitchers.

First, the bad defense. So far Santana has allowed four unearned runs this season. While this number is above the league average, there are 16 other pitchers in the majors who have allowed four or more unearned runs.

In fact, I’m guessing that you didn’t know that Daniel Cabrera leads the majors with 13 unearned runs.

The only reason that we hear so much about the defense behind Santana is that it is always in a tight game.

In other words, because Santana is such a good pitcher, and therefore always puts his team in position to win, whenever the defense is bad it likely will change the outcome of the game (whereas Cabrera has an ERA near five and likely would be losing a lot either way).

Second, the bullpen. Santana isn’t the first pitcher to have a bullpen take wins away from him. Recently, while with the Braves, John Smoltz went through the same exact thing.

In 2008, Santana received no-decisions in 11 games, six of which were wins. In six of the games, Santana left in position to pick up the win, only to have the bullpen blow the lead. The Mets had seven blown saves in games Santana pitched.

The Mets blew a total of 29 saves last year, a number which, divided by five, would be an average of 5.8 blown saves per starter. When you consider that Johan typically was their best starting pitcher, and therefore probably left with a lead more often than the other pitchers, the fact that he suffered through seven blown saves really isn’t that hard to fathom.

Finally, the point that I have done the most research on is the lack of run support that the Mets have given Santana. While everyone has searched for different reasons, it seems clear that the reason for the lack of run support goes no further than the opposing pitcher.

Santana is the ace of the Mets, meaning that most of the time he will be facing another team's top starting pitcher. The reason that his opponent is considered the team's top starting pitcher is likely that he rarely allows many earned runs, so it would make sense that the Mets scored fewer runs on those days.

In 2009, Santana has now started seven games. Of the seven games, five of them have been against opponents who are the best pitchers in their pitching staff (Aaron Harang, Josh Johnson twice, Yovani Gallardo, and Derek Lowe).

In 2008, the Mets scored fewer than five runs in 18 of Santana’s 34 starts. Of those 18 starts, 13 of them were against ace caliber pitchers.

While Johan Santana may be slightly unluckier than most other pitchers, it seems that the Mets' lack of run support may be due to the fact that Santana tends to face good pitchers who tend to give up fewer runs than the rest of the league.

What If the Braves Had Never Traded for Mark Teixeira?

Brett Kettyle — Wed, 06 May 2009 18:28:40 -0400

The Atlanta Braves are in the middle of a crucial stretch during which they play ten consecutive games against division opponents. The first of those opponents was the New York Mets.

While discussing the two teams with a friend, the Scott Kazmir trade came up and my friend went on to talk about how good this year’s team would be with Johan Santana and Scott Kazmir in the rotation.

Eventually, I kept thinking back to 2007, when the Braves made a trade with the Texas Rangers to acquire slugger Mark Teixeira. While the trade may have netted the Braves more than the Mets got in the trade for Victor Zambrano, I think that the whole Braves franchise would look different if the trade was never made.

The Trade Details

Just before the trade deadline in 2007, the Atlanta Braves, looking to bolster their offense, acquired first baseman Mark Teixeira and RP Ron Mahay from the Texas Rangers for C/first base Jarrod Saltalamacchia and minor leaguers SP Matt Harrison, SS Elvis Andrus, P Beau Jones, and SP Neftali Feliz.

The Braves Side

Mark Teixeira did everything that the Braves could ask from his during his brief tenure in Atlanta, which ultimately resulted in a trade to the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. In 208 at bats in 2007, Tex produced a .317/.404/.615 line with 17 homers and 56 RBI.

Left-handed reliever Ron Mahay also filled a need for the Braves, and also was incredible during his short tenure in Atlanta. In 30 games he posted a 1-0 record with a 2.25 ERA and a 1.25 WHIP.

During the offseason, Mahay was signed by Kansas City, and Mark Teixeira was entering the final year of his contract.

The Braves quickly fell out of the race in 2008, prompting the Braves to shop Teixeira for a longer term solution. They ended up with first base Casey Kotchman (currently starting at first for Atlanta) and minor leaguer P Stephen Marek.

Because the Braves missed the playoffs in 2007 and 2008, the trade ultimately didn’t pay off, as the Braves mortgaged the farm system for nothing.

The Rangers Side

The Texas Rangers, who were not contending in 2007, used the Mark Teixeira trade to help build organization depth. At the time of the trade, only Jarrod Saltalamacchia was in the majors, and he was only midway through his rookie season.

Saltalamacchia, who was the Braves top prospect at the time of the trade, stayed in the majors with Texas in 2007. Since going to the Rangers, Salty has hit .256/.324/.406 with 13 homers and 59 RBI in 434 at-bats. Still young, Salty should continue to improve and help the Rangers despite being pushed by Taylor Teagarden and Max Ramirez.

Matt Harrison was the next of the players to make it to the majors for Texas. The Braves number three prospect at the time of the trade, Harrison has posted an impressive record (although his other numbers are less than stellar) so far in his career. Through 2009, his major league stats are a record of 11-5 with a 5.71 ERA and 1.65 WHIP in 20 games started.

Elvis Andrus became the third player the Braves traded away to reach the majors in 2009. So far this year, he has produced a .264/.293/.389 line with 1 homerun, 4 RBI and 3 stolen bases. The slick fielding Andrus is likely going to win a good share of gold gloves in the future.

Andrus is currently the second youngest player in the American League, likely because of his stellar 2008 in AA. He hit .295 and stole 54 bases in 482 at-bats, prompting Texas to ask Michael Young to switch to third base. Andrus was the second ranked prospect in the Braves system at the time of the trade, and the 37th ranked prospect in all of baseball at the beginning of the 2009 season.

Beau Jones was one of the minor league pitchers traded to Texas in the deal. He was previously a starter, and started a couple of games in 2008, but has mostly been pitching in relief. Although he has struggled so far in 2009 (0-2, 4.66 ERA) he posted a 3.22 ERA while striking out 60 batters in 58.1 innings in 2008.

The best prospect that the Rangers got may be Neftali Feliz, who is currently pitching in AAA. The Braves knew that they were trading away a youngster with a live arm, but Feliz exceeded expectations in 2008. Neftali went 10-6 with a 2.69 ERA, 1.10 WHIP and 153 strikeouts in 127.1 innings pitched. While he is off to a rough start (1-1, 5.03 ERA), Feliz and his upper 90’s fastball may be in the majors before the year is up. He is currently ranked as the ninth best prospect in all of baseball.

Where Would Atlanta Be If This Trade Didn’t Happen

The Braves still would have missed out on the playoffs in 2007 and 2008, but that is nothing unexpected.

With Brian McCann in the fold, Saltalamacchia would likely be converted to a first baseman. He would still be playing first in Atlanta, and the Braves would eventually have a decision to make when Freddie Freeman is able to play in the majors.

Elvis Andrus likely would push the Braves to trade away Yunel Escobar (the same way Escobar pushed the Braves to trade Edgar Renteria). However, the Braves likely would have handed the starting job to Omar Infante in 2009 while giving Andrus one more year to mature.

Matt Harrison could possibly be the fifth starter in the rotation. He likely would have gotten a chance in 2008 with all the injuries, and could possibly in the role that Jo-Jo Reyes is currently occupying for the Braves.

Beau Jones would still be in the minors, likely moving toward making Atlanta as a middle or long reliever, possibly in 2010.

Neftali Feliz and Tommy Hanson would be the best pair of starting pitching prospects in any organization, and would have Braves fans dreaming for 2010 when their rotation could include Jair Jurrjens, Hanson, Feliz, Tim Hudson and Jake Peavy.

How did I get Peavy? With their increased organizational depth, the Braves would likely continue pursuing Peavy, and perhaps be more willing to part with prospects. Although it is still unlikely that the Braves would want to give up one of their two top pitchers, I could easily see the Braves getting something done and landing Peavy from San Diego.

Hindsight is 20-20, and surely every Major League team has made trades that they wish they could take back. The Braves currently have one of the deepest farm systems in all of baseball, but would be a much better team in the next couple years had they not traded for Mark Teixeira.

Atlanta Braves Week Two Review

Brett Kettyle — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 00:34:58 -0400

Records and Standings

Week Two Record: 1-5

Overall Record: 6-6

Streak: Won One

Current Standing: Tied for second, five games behind Florida

Week in Review

Apr. 14: 5-1 Loss vs. Marlins

Javier Vazquez had a solid outing (6 IP, 3 ER, 12 K) but ultimately lost as the Braves hardly had any offense. The offense had only four hits and was shut down by Chris Volstad. Jeff Bennett struggled out of the bullpen and Garret Anderson committed two errors.

Kelly Johnson: 1-for-4, HR, RBI

Apr. 15: 10-4 Loss vs. Marlins

Derek Lowe was unimpressive while giving up four runs, and Blaine Boyer and Peter Moylan struggled out of the bullpen. The Braves only managed six hits against the Marlins.

Jeff Francoeur: 2-for-4

Apr. 16: 6-2 Loss vs. Marlins

Kenshin Kawakami and Jorge Campillo both struggled on the mound, but another poor offensive performance ultimately doomed the Braves. The Braves did manage nine hits, but scored only two runs off of Anibal Sanchez.

Jeff Francoeur: 2-for-4, 2 RBI

Garret Anderson: 2-for-3

Kenshin Kawakami: 2-for-2

Apr. 17: 3-0 Loss @ Pirates

Jair Jurrjens pitched a great game (6.2 IP, 1 ER, 7 K) but the Braves offense continued to struggle. Mike Gonzalez gave up 2 runs in just 1 inning out of the bullpen, as the Braves tallied only six hits, none of which went for extra bases.

Jeff Francoeur: 3-for-4

Apr. 18: 10-0 Loss @ Pirates

Jo-Jo Reyes struggled (5.2 IP, 5 ER) after being called up in place of the injured Tom Glavine. Buddy Carlyle and James Parr were each scored upon out of the bullpen, and the Braves offense managed only four hits against Ian Snell and the Pirates.

Omar Infante: 2-for-4

Apr. 19: 11-1 Win @ Pirates

The Braves finally won behind the return of Chipper Jones and a dominant start from Javier Vazquez. The bullpen was solid in three innings of work, and the offense pounded out 15 hits in defeating the Pirates

Chipper Jones: 1-for-3

Jordan Schafer: 3-for-5

Martin Prado: 2-for-4, HR, 3 RBI

Jeff Francoeur: 2-for-5, 3 RBI

Casey Kotchman: 2-for-4, RBI

David Ross: 2-for-4, HR, 3 RBI

Injuries

Tom Glavine was unable to make his first start of the season due to a shoulder injury which may result in an end to his amazing career. Glavine set a timetable of two weeks, and said if his shoulder wasn’t making progress by then, he would likely retire instead of going through a long rehab period.

Pitcher Jorge Campillo was placed on the 15-day disabled list due to right shoulder tendinitis.

Third Baseman Chipper Jones was battling a sore thumb which caused him to miss a majority of the week. It hurts him more batting left-handed, which is why the Braves brought him back against lefty Zach Duke.

Shortstop Yunel Escobar suffered an abdominal strain while doing his pre-at-bat jump in the on deck circle. He should return during the series with the Nationals.

Brian McCann has been unable to play catcher due to blurred vision in his left eye. He has tried multiple treatments so far, and if nothing works he may need surgery which could knock him out for a week or more.

Catcher David Ross was activated this week and has been playing in place of Brian McCann. He has already smacked his first home run of the season, and appears to be fully healthy.

Statistical Leaders

Batting Average (Min 25 AB):Yunel Escobar (.343), Jeff Francoeur (.333), Chipper Jones (.333), Omar Infante (.310)

Homeruns:Kelly Johnson (3), Brian McCann (2), Jordan Schafer (2)

RBI: Jeff Francoeur (10), Kelly Johnson (7), Brian McCann (7)

Wins: Jair Jurrjens (2), Javier Vazquez (1), Derek Lowe (1), Kenshin Kawakami (1), Jorge Campillo (1)

ERA (Starters): Jair Jurrjens (2.04), Derek Lowe (2.81), Javier Vazquez (3.00)

ERA (Bullpen): Rafael Soriano (0.00), Jeff Bennett (1.29)

Strikeouts: Javier Vazquez (25), Kenshin Kawakami (15), Derek Lowe (15)

Their Struggling (Batting Average for Hitters, ERA for Pitchers)

OF Garret Anderson (.200)

C Brian McCann (.200)

OF Matt Diaz (.217)

2B Kelly Johnson (.244)

SP Kenshin Kawakami (5.25)

RP Mike Gonzalez (7.20)

SP Jo-Jo Reyes (7.94)

RP Eric O’Flaherty (8.10)

RP James Parr (9.00)

RP Peter Moylan (13.50)

RP Blaine Boyer (40.50)

Players of the Week

Offense: Jeff Francoeur (.434, 5 RBI in 23 AB)

Pitching: Javier Vazquez (1-1, 2.25 ERA, 20 K in 12 IP)

On Deck (Stats as of 4/20)

Apr. 20: Atlanta Braves (Derek Lowe, 1-1, 2.81) @ Washington Nationals (Jordan Zimmerman, Debut)

Apr. 21: Atlanta Braves (Kenshin Kawakami, 1-1, 5.25) @ Washington Nationals (Shairon Martis, 1-0, 4.82)

Apr. 22: Atlanta Braves (Jair Jurrjens, 2-1, 2.04) @ Washington Nationals (John Lannan, 0-2, 6.46)

Apr. 24: Atlanta Braves (Javier Vazquez, 1-1, 3.00) @ Cincinnati Reds (Edinson Volquez, 1-1, 9.64)

Apr. 25: Atlanta Braves (Derek Lowe, 1-1, 2.81) @ Cincinnati Reds (Bronson Arroyo, 2-0, 4.38)

Apr. 26: Atlanta Braves (Jo-Jo Reyes, 0-1, 7.94) @ Cincinnati Reds (Micah Owings, 0-1, 7.20)

The Braves and Baseball's Strangest Injuries

Brett Kettyle — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 16:17:35 -0400

In the series finale between the Braves and the Marlins on Thursday April 16^th, Braves shortstop Yunel Escobar was injured and had to leave the game.

Escobar injured himself while in the on deck circle.

Was he swinging a bat? No.

Yunel had an abdominal strain suffered while jumping before coming to the plate, something that he has done before every at bat.

While it wasn’t something dumb, Escobar’s injury immediately reminded me of when Alfonso Soriano was injured in 2008 while jumping to catch a fly ball, something that he always does.

Most people know that many baseball players have gotten injured in pretty odd fashions, but the Braves seem to have more than their fare share of weird injuries.

First are some of baseball’s weirdest injuries, followed by seven Braves injuries that no doubt are among the strangest in sports history.

On the Field Injuries:

Why not start with what has already been mentioned, Alfonso Soriano straining his calf while jumping to catch a routine fly ball.

In 1985, Vince Coleman injured his leg when it was run over by a machine putting the tarp over the infield to keep it dry.

In 1923, Red Sox player Clarence Blethen, who removed his false teeth while playing, left them in his back pocket and bit himself while sliding into second base.

Ken Griffey Jr., who is no stranger to being injured, has a couple of weird injuries. He once had to miss a game because his cup slipped and pinched his testicle, and in 2006 injured his hand while playing with his children.

In 2004, Kyle Farnsworth injured his foot while attempting to punt a baseball in pregame warm-ups.

Both Kevin Brown and Will Cunnane share this point because they both punched a wall and broke their hand, although Cunnane was not in the majors at the time.

In 2007, Milton Bradley tore his ACL while being restrained from arguing with an umpire.

Last year, both Carlos Quentin and Troy Tulowitski injured themselves with their own bat. Quentin hit his bat in frustration after fouling off a pitch. Tulowitski slammed his bat against the ground in frustration after an at bat, the bat then shattered and cut Tulo’s hand.

Off the Field Injuries:

Glenallen Hill suffered cuts and bruises after falling off of his bed onto a glass table while having a nightmare about spiders.

Wade Boggs hurt his back while pulling on a pair of cowboy boots.

Brent Barberie couldn’t play in a game because he accidentally rubbed hot sauce in his eye.

In 1994, Steve Sparks dislocated his shoulder while attempting to rip a phone book in half.

Kevin Mitchell suffered from multiple off the field injuries during his career. At one point, he strained a rib while vomiting. He also chipped a tooth when biting a donut.

After falling asleep in a tanning bed, Marty Cordova was forced to sit out one game because he had burned himself.

Moises Alou was victim to multiple off the field injuries one year. He injured himself while falling off of a treadmill and later injured himself while running over his son on a bike.

David Wells once injured himself after tripping over a barstool while in his own house, he landed on a glass and cut himself.

The Royals George Brett broke his toe rushing through his house to get to the television to watch his friend Bill Buckner bat in a game.

Pitcher Adam Eaton stabbed himself while attempting to open a DVD.

Sneezing caused Sammy Sosa to miss time with a back injury.

Oliver Perez broke his toe when he kicked a laundry cart while in the clubhouse.

While lifting a pillow for his son, Brandon Inge strained his oblique.

Houston outfielder Hunter Pence walked through a closed glass door at his home and suffered lacerations and cuts.

Joel Zumaya missed time due to playing too much Guitar Hero.

Clint Barmes injured himself in the middle of an impressive rookie campaign while carrying deer meat up a flight of stairs.

The Top 7 Weird Atlanta Braves Injuries:

Yunel Escobar jumping in the on deck circle, as previously described.

Cecil Upshaw tore up his ring finger on an overhead awning while practicing an imaginary dunk.

Pitcher Blaine Boyer hurt himself opening a window, some sources say he broke it, after he and his wife got locked out of their house.

300 game winner Tom Glavine broke a rib while vomiting after an in-flight meal, but pitched through the pain.

Before coming to bat, Terry Harper strained his shoulder waving a runner home.

Ryan Klesko injured his back and was forced to miss time after lifting a lunch tray.

John Smoltz once injured himself while attempting to iron a shirt, while wearing it.

The Braves and Marlins Look Good for 2009, but the Future Will Be Even Better

Brett Kettyle — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 13:22:31 -0400

Starting today, April 14, the Braves and Marlins will play a three game series at Turner Field in Atlanta.

Although experts overwhelmingly picked either the Mets or Phillies, the Marlins and Braves sit tied for first place in the National League East after the season’s first week. The Marlins took two out of three from the Mets, while the Braves beat Philadelphia in two of their three games.

With the best two pitching staffs in the division, the Braves and the Marlins are contenders in the National League East for 2009 and could replace the Mets and Phillies as the two top dogs in the division.

Although the rankings vary, Keith Law of ESPN.com, Baseball Prospectus, and Baseball America all have ranked the Braves and Marlins as two of the top three organizations in the National League. The Braves had ranks of four, six, and four, while the Marlins had ranks of eight, two, and five.

The teams have a couple of similarities that extend even further. Both have highly touted prospects starting in center field, and both got some of their great depth in trades with the Detroit Tigers.

Cameron Maybin was ranked the eighth best prospect in all of baseball by Baseball America, and he has the potential to be a five tool player for the Marlins.

Jordan Schafer, ranked as the 42nd best prospect, has started 2009 off with a bang. On opening night against the Philadelphia Phillies, he became the 99th player in Major League history to homer in his first at-bat.

The Marlins, already armed with a young, talented pitching staff that includes Andrew Miller (23), Chris Volstad (22), Josh Johnson (25), Ricky Nolasco (26) and Anibal Sanchez (26), have a number of other prospects ranked in Baseball America’s top 100.

Outfielder Mike Stanton (19 years old) and first baseman Logan Morrison (21) were the other two Marlins ranked in Baseball America’s top 20 (16 and 18, respectively).

Both should be ready at some point next year, and if the Marlins begin to fall out of the race, you can expect them to deal some of their experienced talent (Jorge Cantu is a strong possibility) in order to save payroll and open spots up for 2010.

The Marlins other prospects ranked in the top 100 include third baseman Matt Dominguez (19 years old), catcher Kyle Skipworth (19), and pitcher Sean West. Other notable prospects include Jose Ceda, second baseman Chris Coghlan, corner infielder Gaby Sanchez, and pitcher Ryan Tucker.

The Braves are also loaded with young talent despite recent trades to the Texas Rangers (for Mark Teixeira and Ron Mahay) and the Chicago White Sox (for Javier Vazquez and Boone Logan).

The Braves have two prospects in the top five of Baseball America’s ratings. Pitcher Tommy Hanson (22) dominated in the minors and Arizona Fall League, and he is likely to be promoted at some point this season.

The Braves other prospect in the top five is outfielder Jason Heyward. The 19 year old was impressive in Spring training and will likely be in the majors at some point during the 2010 season.

Other Braves that were ranked in the top 100 include outfielder Gorkys Hernandez (21 years old) and first baseman Freddie Freeman (19). Both players likely will be in the Majors in 2010 or 2011.

Current starter Jair Jurrjens is only in his second season, and he could be one of the headliners of a great future rotation.

Other players in the minors who were once highly rated prospects but already have some major league experience include outfielder Brandon Jones and pitchers Jo-Jo Reyes and Charlie Morton.

The farm system also includes a ton of good young pitchers including Cole Rohrborough, Jeff Locke, Julio Tehran, Kris Medlan, Craig Kimbrel, and recent first round pick Brett Devall.

While both teams are certainly going to compete in 2009, the future looks incredibly bright for the two teams that many overlooked in the 2009 National League East.

Atlanta Braves Week One Review

Brett Kettyle — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 14:54:21 -0400

After an excellent spring training, there were plenty of reasons to look forward to in 2009 for the Atlanta Braves.

The Braves became the first team to win a ballgame in 2009 while beating the Phillies 4-1 on Opening Night behind eight shutout innings from Derek Lowe.

After going 2-1 in Philadelphia and sweeping the Washington Nationals, the Braves sit at 5-1 and are tied for first place (with the Florida Marlins) in the NL East.

So far, the biggest surprise of the season has to be the offense. While many thought that the Braves offense could be pretty good without a dominant power hitter, nobody predicted that the team would be leading the NL East in homeruns through the first week.

Offense Review

So far most of the Braves starters have impressed with the bat in 2009.

Chipper Jones and Yunel Escobar are each hitting .400 with one homerun.

Kelly Johnson, Brian McCann and Jordan Schafer are tied for the team lead in homeruns with two, and all three of them are hitting over .300. McCann leads the team in RBI with seven.

Matt Diaz is hitting .286 and has been starting since Garret Anderson went down with an injury. He already has one homerun and four RBI despite only 14 at-bats.

Casey Kotchman is also hitting .286, which is a good sign considering that he struggled once coming over to Atlanta following a trade in 2008.

Omar Infante has four hits in his first eight at-bats, and he should continue to see most of the playing time off the bench as he can play three infield and all three outfield positions.

The only two sour notes on offense are the injury to Garret Anderson (who is only hitting .200) and the low batting average that is still holding back Jeff Francoeur.

Frenchy is hitting just .240 through the first week, but is slugging .520 and has already drawn his first walk of the season. Coming off a game with two triples, Francoeur still shows tremendous promise for 2009.

Pitching Review

What a week for the Braves starting pitchers. In the first week, Derek Lowe, Jair Jurrjens, Javier Vazquez and Kenshin Kawakami allowed only 10 runs in 34 innings while running their record to 4-0.

Lowe was outstanding opening day, shutting down the Phillies for eight innings. In his second start, he allowed one earned run, but only pitched three innings due to a rain delay.

Jurrjens was great against the Phillies in his first start, although he struggled some against the Nationals in his second. His season ERA sits at 2.45 and he is 2-0.

In his Braves debut, Javier Vazquez allowed three runs in six innings. He had a chance to pick up the win before the bullpen melted down.

Kawakami won in his Braves debut, striking out eight over six innings while allowing three earned runs.

The biggest problem with the starting pitching has been walks (Derek Lowe not included). Jurrjens, Vazquez and Kawakami have walked 16 batters in 23 innings, which could be a cause for concern if they don’t bring that number down.

The worst news for Braves starting pitchers was that Tom Glavine experienced shoulder discomfort in a minor league start, and might not make his first start of the season. The Braves have plenty of depth, and the fifth spot will only be needed twice in April, so it shouldn’t be a problem if Glavine is unable to go.

The bullpen has been a problem so far in 2009, especially in the Braves only loss. In the third game of the season, the bullpen gave away a seven run lead to lose 12-11.

While Mike Gonzalez (two saves), Rafael Soriano (0.00 ERA, one save) and Jeff Bennett (0.00 ERA in 3.2 innings) have pitched well, the rest of the bullpen has awful numbers right now.

Walks have been the major source of the problem, and have led to ERAs north of five for Jorge Campillo (5.40), Buddy Carlyle (5.40), Eric O’Flaherty (11.57), Peter Moylan (45.00) and Blaine Boyer (Infinite).

There is still plenty of promise for the bullpen, and Manny Acosta and Boone Logan might get the call if the struggles continue.

Overall, the Braves have to be happy with the first week. This week they will play Florida (5-1) in Atlanta for three games before heading to Pittsburgh to take on the Pirates (3-3).

Pitching Matchups:

4/14: Chris Volstad (1-0) @ Javier Vazquez (1-0)

4/15: Andrew Miller (0-0) @ Derek Lowe (1-0)

4/16: Anibal Sanchez (0-0) @ Kenshin Kawakami

4/17: Jair Jurrjens (2-0) @ Paul Maholm (1-0)

4/18: Jo-Jo Reyes (0-0) @ Ian Snell (0-2)

4/19: Javier Vazquez (1-0) @ Zach Duke (1-0)

Braves Spring Training Review and Roster Predictions: Offense

Brett Kettyle — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 16:14:45 -0400

With the Grapefruit League completed, the Braves will prepare to face Philadelphia on Opening Day on Sunday.

The Braves finished with a 20-11 record, and gave fans a lot to look forward to this season.

Below is a review of the Braves' offense this spring, as well as predictions on where each player will be at the start of the season.

Catchers

Brian McCann (.304/.379/.478 in 23 AB)

After playing catcher and left field for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic, McCann returned to the Braves to post the numbers you would expect from a premier offensive catcher in spring training.

McCann was guaranteed a job before spring began, but it was good to see him hitting the ball well already.

Predicted Opening Day status—Starter.

David Ross (.175/.267/.425, 3 HR in 40 AB)

Ross showed he has the power in his bat to be a better option than Corky Miller was last year. Although his average left much to be desired, Ross was extremely successful in throwing out would-be base-stealers.

An injury will likely cost Ross a chance to start the season in Atlanta, but Ross will be back once he is healthy.

Predicted Opening Day status—Disabled List

Clint Sammons (.458/.500/.958, 3 HR in 24 AB)

Sammons was hot this spring, posting amazing numbers across the board.

After a struggle in 2008, Sammons showed he still has the potential to be a solid offensive catcher who could provide some pop off the bench.

Predicted Opening Day status—Bench.

Infielders

Casey Kotchman (.300/.317/.550, 3 HR in 40 AB)

After a slow start with the Braves in 2008, Kotchman showed he should be a good enough first baseman to bridge the gap until Freddie Freeman is ready for the majors.

Kotchman should hit for an average near the .300 he hit during spring, although his slugging percentage was inflated due to a small number of at-bats.

Predicted Opening Day status—Starter (1B)

Kelly Johnson (.265/.316/.382 in 68 AB)

After a sizzling finish to 2008, Johnson had a relatively slow spring. Although his batting average was low, he showed a good eye at the plate.

Johnson should pick up his production once the regular season starts, and give the Braves another solid season from second base.

Predicted Opening Day status—Starter (2B)

Yunel Escobar (.286/.338/.343 in 70 AB)

Escobar got more at-bats than any other Braves player this spring, and should be more than ready for Opening Day.

He put up a solid line in the Grapefruit League, and should hit around those numbers (with a little more power) once the regular season begins.

Predicted Opening Day status—Starter (SS)

Chipper Jones (.357/.424/.857, 4 HR in 28 AB)

After struggling through a couple of games for Team USA in the WBC, Jones suffered an early injury setback before returning to the Braves.

Once he got back into games, he was on fire, tearing the cover off the ball in his limited number of Grapefruit League at-bats.

Although the slugging percentage will go down during the regular season, his spring average (.357) was actually lower than his average in 2008 (.364).

As has been the case recently, we know Jones will produce; the question is how many games he will play?

Predicted Opening Day status—Starter (3B)

Omar Infante (.288/.294/.485 in 66 AB)

Infante saw plenty of work this spring, mainly due to his versatility in the field.

After being one of the top bench options in 2008, Infante produced a solid line in the spring, and has given the Braves every reason to believe he can reproduce his 2008 numbers.

Predicted Opening Day status—Bench

Martin Prado (.290/.343/.371, 12 RBI in 62 AB)

Prado also saw plenty of action this spring, and showed that he will likely be able to repeat his strong performance off the bench.

Prado can play a number of positions, and should prove to be a valuable commodity if he can produce the way that he did this spring.

Predicted Opening Day status—Bench

Greg Norton (.311/.404/.533 in 45 AB)

With the depth that the Braves had in their infield and outfield, the re-signing of Norton may have been a surprise to many.

With a strong spring (and the trade of Josh Anderson), Norton likely solidified his spot on the Braves bench. He won’t hit for nearlythe average he had this spring, but he could be a great source of power off the bench in the late innings in 2009.

Predicted Opening Day status—Bench

Brooks Conrad (.184/.225/.342 in 38 AB)

Conrad finally reached the majors in 2008 after spending seven seasons in the minor leagues. At 5’11’’, some said he could be a surprise player in the mold of Dan Uggla, showing some power in his career.

However, Conrad struggled this spring, erasing any chance of making the Opening Day roster.

At 29 years old, it is unlikely that Conrad will improve anymore, and he will only see Atlanta if there are a number of injuries to other players.

Predicted Opening Day status—Minor leagues

Diory Hernandez (.212/.270/.242 in 33 AB)

Hernandez came to spring camp hoping to show the Braves he could produce solid numbers at the plate and provide versatility by playing all over the diamond.

However, he struggled at the dish and in the field, erasing his chance of making the big club.

At 25, he is too old to be considered a prospect and will likely never be more than a utility player at the major league level.

Predicted Opening Day status—Minor leauges

Outfielders

Garret Anderson (.333/.412/.467 in 15 AB)

Signed extremely late, Anderson was going to face a short spring season even before injury held him out even longer.

He did produce after finally returning to the lineup this past week, and should be a solid run producer for the Braves in left field.

Predicted Opening Day status—Starter (LF)

Jordan Schafer (.344/.373/.500, 5 SB in 64 AB)

Many thought Schafer would be in Atlanta at some point in 2008 before being suspended for suspected use of HGH (there is no test).

His sizzling spring helped him climb the depth charts, and ultimately resulted in the Braves trading Josh Anderson to the Detroit Tigers.

Although he had 16 strikeouts, Schafer showed he is ready to produce on the major league level.

Predicted Opening Day status—Starter (CF)

Jeff Francoeur (.306/.366/.403, 12 RBI in 62 AB)

The struggles that Francoeur dealt with in 2008 have been well-documented. After another offseason of dramatic changes, he looks to be back to the form that earned him the label of being the Braves top prospect.

While I doubt that he can hit .306 over the course of the season, he should continue to drive in runs, which would be a major boost to the Braves.

Predicted Opening Day status—Starter (RF)

Matt Diaz (.295/.317/.389, 13 RBI in 61 AB)

Diaz was finally given a chance to have a full time role in 2008, but struggled through an injury that cost him most of the season.

He looks to be back to form in 2009, giving the Braves a power bat who can play the corner outfield spots and tear up left handed pitchers.

Although Diaz likely will lose more playing time with the addition of Anderson, he will produce good numbers for the Braves in 2009.

Predicted Opening Day status—Bench

Brandon Jones (.315/.351/.389, 12 RBI in 54 AB)

Jones was one of the biggest surprises of spring training in 2009. Once considered a top-three prospect in the Braves organization, many thought he would never develop into the hitter they thought he could be.

While the power didn’t show up in spring, Jones got off to a hot start (the complete opposite of 2008) and showed that he still has the potential to play outfield at the major league level.

If an injury occurs, Jones could likely be given another chance to show Atlanta the talent he still possesses.

Predicted Opening Day status—Bench

Gregor Blanco (.174/.321/.304 in 23 AB)

After playing in the WBC, Blanco had some ground to make up if he was to win the starting job in centerfield.

Although he showed his great hitting eye by drawing walks, the low batting average has erased any hope for Blanco to start 2009 in the majors.

If an injury occurs in the outfield, he will likely get called up before Brandon Jones because of his ability to play all three outfield positions.

Predicted Opening Day status—Minor leagues

Prospects

Jason Heyward (.300/.364/.475 in 40 AB)

Recently named as the fifth best prospect in all of baseball by Baseball America, Heyward showed that he already has the tools to hit at the major league level.

Although he never had a chance of making the Opening Day roster (he is only 19 and has never played above Single-A), he displayed flashes of his huge talent in spring training.

Heyward will likely spend the year in the minors, but don’t be surprised if he makes an impact in 2010.

Freddie Freeman (.238/.250/.333 in 42 AB)

Freeman cooled off after starting the spring with a bang. Just 19 years old, he showed he still needs a little more seasoning before he is ready for the major league level.

The future first baseman of the Braves, Freeman likely won’t make an impact in Atlanta until 2011.

Brandon Hicks (.300/.364/.550 in 20 AB)

Although he only got a small number of at-bats, Hicks showed he could be the future third baseman of the Braves when Chipper Jones finally retires.

He has good power/speed potential, and should continue to improve his game in the minor leagues.

Breaking Down The Atlanta Braves Outfield Options

Brett Kettyle — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 16:34:53 -0400

After a year in which the Braves outfield was one of the worst in the majors, Atlanta now has a plethora of options for all of the outfield spots, which could lead Frank Wren to deal at some point this season.

The Braves have 7 outfielders are major league ready, and might only be carrying four (although 5 is more likely) at the start of the season.

The options do give Frank Wren plenty of options if he wants to complete a trade to improve the organizational depth on the left side of the infield.

The Corner Starters

Garret Anderson

After acquiring starting pitchers and a backup catcher, Frank Wren got his final off-season goal accomplished with the signing of Garret Anderson. Anderson will patrol left field in 2009, and he should give the Braves a nice run producer in the middle of the lineup.

Although he won’t hit a ton of homeruns, Anderson has driven in at least 80 runs in the past four years, and should continue that trend, even if he only gets around 450 at-bats.

With a one-year contract, it is highly unlikely that Anderson will be around after 2009.

A career .296/.327/.469 hitter, Anderson is a lock to play as long as he is healthy, and should produce around a .285/15/85 line for the Braves this season.

Jeff Francoeur

By now, most people have heard about Francoeur’s terrible production in 2008 despite reports that he was going to find his power stroke after gaining 15 pounds of muscle. The off-season saw Frenchy undergo another transformation, as he has lost weight and changed his batting stance.

He is still only 25 years old, and still has room to figure things out before being labeled a bust. He has shown the ability to hit for average (.293 in 2007) and power (29 homeruns in 2006) while driving in runs (100+ RBI in both 2006 and 2007) and hopefully will be able to put it all together in 2009.

Expect to see numbers around .275/25/100 for 2009. Francoeur could prove to be an interesting commodity for the Braves, as if he plays well he could contend for a spot in the middle of the line-up, or bring his trade value up for Wren to move him to open spots for the many other major league ready outfielders

The Centerfield Battle

Josh Anderson

Anderson came to Atlanta following the 2007 season in a trade that sent Oscar Villareal to Houston.

Anderson can bring something to the table that the Braves have been lacking for a long time, speed. In just 40 games last season Anderson stole 10 bases while getting caught just once.

In 6 seasons in the minors, Anderson has swiped 280 bases (47 per year) while constantly hitting for a high average (.294). In his limited MLB action, Anderson has hit .315.

He doesn’t have much power, and likely would only produce 5-10 homeruns a season. However, the biggest knack on Anderson is his low on-base percentage, which was only .340 in the minors and a measly .338 last season.

Although he has tremendous speed, the low on-base percentage means he would not be ideal in the leadoff spot, and may eventually lead him to a spot on the bench as a pinch hitter and pinch runner. He is out of options, so look for Anderson to stick with the major league club at least through 2009.

Jordan Schafer

Many regard Schafer as the third best prospect in the Braves organization (after Tommy Hanson and Jason Heyward).

Some predicted that he would be patrolling center in Atlanta at some point during the 2008 season. Instead, Schafer was suspended 50 games for suspected use of HGH (there is no test) and quickly saw his chances of making his debut in 2008 fade away.

Upon returning, he tried to hard to produce and saw a decrease in his numbers. By the last month of the season, his numbers were back to normal, and Schafer was back on the fast track to the majors.

With a sizzling spring (.372/.413/.535 with 1 homerun and 5 stolen bases), Schafer has emerged as a great option for the centerfield job on opening day.

He has some speed, and he might be an option for leadoff hitter while his power is still developing. Look for Schafer to win the centerfield job and patrol the position in 2009 and for years to come in Atlanta.

Bench Options

Matt Diaz

After two years of stellar play in platoons, Diaz got the chance to start in 2008. However, a knee injury ruined his season, and even when he played he was unable to produce at the level projected.

For a time, it seemed that Diaz was again destined to be a platoon player (.328/.361/.508 career line against lefties), but the signing of Garret Anderson will likely give him a spot on the bench instead.

Diaz has shown that he can hit at the major league level (career .309 average) and has had a hot spring. He has hit a respectable .288 against righties in his career, so he could be an everyday starter somewhere.

Diaz is a great bench option, but he might have the most trade value of any outfielder on the Braves bench.

Gregor Blanco

During his 2008 rookie season, Blanco struggled to hit for average (.251) while playing in 144 games. He did record a relatively high on-base percentage (.366) though.

Coming into 2009, Blanco was competing for the centerfield job, but it appears that he has fallen behind both Anderson and Schafer.

Blanco has proven that he has the ability to play in the major leagues, although he probably will never offer very much in the way of average (.274 in the minors) or power (only 19 extra base hits in 400+ at bats last year).

With playing time, Blanco will likely continue to get on base, and offer a reasonable amount of steals.

Blanco hit .400 in the World Baseball Classic, but has hit only .200 since returning to the Braves spring camp. He projects as a fourth outfielder at the major league level.

There isn’t much room for him in the Braves outfield this year, and I wouldn’t be surprised if the team tried to move him, as his ability to play all three outfield positions will increase his value on the trade market. Don’t be surprised if Blanco was put in a deal to acquire organizational depth on the left side of the infield.

Brandon Jones

Brandon Jones seemed to be the forgotten man in the Braves outfield after a difficult season in 2008.

Not long ago, Jones was one of the clubs top 3 prospects and looked at as a future everyday corner outfielder. There was talk of Jones spending a large amount of time in Atlanta in 2008, but that never materialized. After a slow start in spring training, Jones had a disappointing year that led many to believe that he no longer had as high of a ceiling as once believed.

However, Brandon Jones has shown in spring training that he is still capable of posting terrific numbers, and is a major league ready outfielder. So far this spring, Jones has hit .400. He is capable of producing decent power and speed numbers in the future.

Although Jones has shown that he is probably ready for the majors in 2009, it appears that the amount of outfielders will keep him in the minor leagues.

Don’t be surprised to see him in Atlanta if there is an injury, and he will likely still be around in 2010, when he possibly could play left field if Jason Heyward still needs seasoning.

Down on the Farm

Jason Heyward

Heyward is only 19, yet he had been rated as one of the baseball’s top 5 prospects by Baseball America.

In 2008 he dominated the South Atlantic League, before finishing with a brief stint in Myrtle Beach. Blessed with speed, power and the ability to hit for a good average, Heyward will eventually become a mainstay of the Atlanta outfield.

The Braves invited him to spring training this year, and he has continued to hit well, posting .316 batting average and swatting 2 homeruns. Heyward will definitely need more seasoning in 2009, and possibly in 2010, but he will be in the majors by the time he is 21.

Gorkys Hernandez

If the Braves had traded Edgar Renteria for only Jair Jurrjens, they would have easily won that deal with the Tigers. However, the Braves also got the speedy outfielder, Gorkys Hernandez.

Although Hernandez struggled some in 2008 in his first taste of High A ball, he still has the skills to eventually patrol the outfield in Atlanta.

While his batting average dropped in 2008, he increased his walk rate, a trait that could lead him to project into a leadoff hitter in the majors. He has blazing speed, having swiped an average of over 30 bases a year in his three minor league stops.

I can’t see him making an impact in the majors until 2011 (at the earliest), but Hernandez could eventually make a huge impact in Atlanta.

Cody Johnson

While the other two prospects are highly regarded throughout baseball, Johnson is somewhat of a question mark. After dominating in 2007 (.305 batting average and 17 homeruns in 243 at bats) he saw a huge decline in batting average in 2008 (although he still showed tremendous power).

If Johnson can cut back on his strikeout rate, and bring his walk rate up, he should be able to hit in the .275 range. If Johnson can accomplish this, he could make it to the major leagues and possibly post incredible homerun totals.

He hasn’t played above low A ball so far, so Johnson is still a while away from making any impact.

Atlanta Braves Roundtable Discussion: 6 Questions For 2009

Brett Kettyle — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 22:12:14 -0400

With the 2009 regular season less than a month away, and many people coming out with their previews for 2009, I decided to ask four fellow Braves writers six questions about the Atlanta Braves.

This article will give you their responses, my own response to the questions, as well a quick way to sum up all the answers.

I would like to thank the contributing writers, Cameron Britt, Grant McAuley, Joel Barker and Kevin Markum.

1. How do you rate the Braves offseason, will they be able to compete in 2009?

Cameron Britt:

I would give the Braves an offseason grade of "A."

They set out to get two veteran starters, one power-hitting outfielder, and a back-up catcher for Brian McCann, and accomplished all three.

With Javier Vazquez, Derek Lowe, Kenshin Kawakami, and David Ross all coming aboard, the Braves have filled two major weaknesses from last year.

With the addition of Garret Anderson, the Braves now have a veteran presence that is still capable of putting up numbers until the next round of prospects is ready.

Grant McAuley:

For all the talk of how the Braves seemed to come up short in countless offseason pursuits, Frank Wren actually ended up addressing every single need the club had entering the winter.

Not only did he fortify the rotation with Derek Lowe, Javier Vazquez, Kenshin Kawakami and Tom Glavine, but he also added the veteran left fielder in Garret Anderson.

Retaining Greg Norton and signing David Ross to go along with Omar Infante and Matt Diaz also gives the Braves a solid bench.

Throw in the fact that Peter Moylan and Rafael Soriano will rejoin the bullpen after injury-marred campaigns in 2008, and Atlanta's chances look much brighter for the upcoming season.

This offseason may be marked by some as being a disappointment, but when you look at what the Braves accomplished in the end, it has them poised to make some noise in the National League East. B+ overall.

Joel Barker:

Overall B- I think as far bolstering the starting rotation the Braves had an A+ this winter. But they failed to add a big bat for the middle of the lineup. That hurts.

Kevin Markum:

On a 4.0 scale, I would give the Braves offseason a B. Given the struggles to get targeted players this offseason, I cannot give the Braves an A. However, I do look favorably on the players the Braves were able to pick up.

I didn’t really want Peavy, Burnett, or Griffey. I did want to get Furcal, but more than likely he would have hurt us salary cap wise. I also was interested in Abreu, but wasn’t too disappointed we didn’t get him.

Garret Anderson is a good signing since we have him at 2.5 million. I think Garret gets around 300-350 ABs with 12 HRs and 55 RBIs.

I give the Braves a B, because while they failed to get some of the players they were after, they were able to acquire some quality free agents (Lowe and Kawakami), and trade for a veteran Vazquez without depleting their farm system.

Yes, the Braves will compete with the much improved pitching staff and with players that should rise to their potential in 2009.

Brett Kettyle:

I would rate the Braves offseason as an A, especially after the late signing of Garret Anderson. I think that the Braves accomplished most of their goals, and, although they didn't land a true power hitting OF, Anderson should get plenty of RBIs.

GM Frank Wren actually acquired one more starting pitcher than he was trying too, and set the Braves up for a great rotation in 2009.

The addition of David Ross will no doubt be an improvement over the awful (as in, worse than a lot of pitchers awful) hitting of Corky Miller last year.

Overall Average Grade: B+

2. What will be the strength of the team in 2009?

Cameron Britt:

The strength of the 2009 Atlanta Braves will be the pitching depth and durability (Lowe, Vazquez, and Jurrjens are all studs).

When you have five or six guys, that is before they signed Glavine, competing for the fifth spot in your rotation, that says a lot about A)how your farm is producing and B) how wise your GM is to have signed enough competent pitchers that there simply isn't room for the talent.

Grant McAuley:

Much like the glory days of the 90s, this team should be able to rely on quality starting pitching to help them contend in 2009.

Lowe and Vazquez will give the Braves innings that the team was starved for in the face of injury last season. Adding those veterans allows Atlanta to slot up and coming Jair Jurrjens in the three or four spot in the rotation, relieving the stress of asking the youngster to front the rotation for an entire season.

Kawakami and Glavine may not supply the same number of innings that Braves fans will see in the 1-3 spots, but what they should provide will be adequate to take the strain off a bullpen that was routinely pitching four and five innings a night a season ago.

Joel Barker:

Adding Lowe, Kawakami, and Vazquez to Jurrjens, and the recently re-signed Tom Glavine makes this rotation the best in the NL East, and by far the biggest strength of team.

Kevin Markum:

Pitching is most certainly the strength of the team in 2009. I think our starters will be more reliable and consistent this season than they have since the days of Maddux, Glavine, and Smoltz.

Whether or not we sign Glavine, our rotation is probably the strongest in the NL East even if we don’t have a standout ace.

Defense is also pretty decent for 2009. Francoeur should return to his gold glove status since losing weight this offseason, and Chipper, Escobar, and Kelly make a great infield defense. My main concern for defense in centerfield however, Schafer could be a big help in that category.

Brett Kettyle:

The starting pitcher has been upgraded, making the entire pitching staff the strength of the 2009 Atlanta Braves. The bullpen shouldn't have to throw as many innings this year, keeping players healthier and more well rested down the stretch.

As for hitting, hitting for a good batting average should be a strength of the Braves this year, as I could see everyone in the lineup except for Jeff Francoeur hitting .285 or higher this year.

Consensus Strength: Starting Pitching

3. What will be the weakness of the team in 2009?

Cameron Britt:

The weakness is left field. Even though I believe that a Diaz/G Anderson platoon is competent, these two probably won’t produce enough to be considered a greatly-above-average outfield punch.

Grant McAuley:

The weakness of any team is injury. There is no immunity card. Injuries can lay ruin to even the best laid plans.

Last season, the Braves were forced to utilize 11 different stating pitchers, with Jorge Campillo, a hurler who spent the first month and a half of the season in the bullpen, ranking second on the club with 25 starts when all was said and done.

Atlanta does not have a lack of experience, or youthful talent for that matter. Unproven commodities in the outfield could be a sore point. Gone are the days of Andruw Jones making circus catches in centerfield and hit 30+ homers at plate.

Jeff Francoeur has to address a 2008 season that derailed his promising career (.239-11-71 stat line). His return to top form will be crucial to Atlanta's chances this season.

Joel Barker:

The lineup is the biggest weakness. They need a big, right-handed bat to protect Chipper and hit cleanup. Still if Francoeur returns to form, and Chipper doesn’t miss a ton of games this lineup could be good enough.

Kevin Markum:

Baserunning will suffer in 2009. I think hitting wise we are average or above average. However, we haven’t had a true base stealing threat since Furcal left us. Josh Anderson is our hope this season to turn things around in that category.

Brett Kettyle:

I think that power will be the weakness for the team in 2009. While it would be easy to point to LF, I can't say that it is the weakness, it just was the only opening where we could have fit power in the lineup.

If I had to pick a position where we were missing power the most I would pick First Base, because that is a position where people typically hit for power, something that Casey Kotchman doesn't do.

Consensus Weakness: None, although all of them have to do with offense

4. Will Jeff Francoeur rebound from his awful 2008, what numbers should we expect from him?

Cameron Britt:

If by "rebound" you mean hit about .268 with 21 HR and about 90 RBI, then yes Francoeur will rebound (I see these numbers as about his ceiling). He is not going to hit for average or epic power, but he should serve as an OK five or six hole guy.

Grant McAuley:

All signs point to Francoeur returning to form. He has worked hard all offseason to revamp his approach and get his body back to the form it was when he put up back-to-back 100 RBI seasons to start his career.

Chipper Jones has commented the Francoeur is on track, after spending much of the last two months hitting in the cages with the Atlanta right fielder.

If Francoeur's work pays off, I expect to see a .275-25-95 season in the works. There will be some struggles and adjustments to be made, but that is the part of the game that Francoeur has now realized can humble any player.

One this is certain, his work with runners on base will have to improve so that Bobby Cox can utilize him in the middle of the very left-hand heavy Braves lineup.

Joel Barker:

I believe Francoeur will be back with a vengeance. He was upset when the Braves sent him down last year and I believe he feels he has something to prove. Expect at least .285, 25 HR, 110 RBI. But if Francoeur has his breakout season this year; .310, 35 HR, 140 RBI is a possibility. Big hopes, modest expectations.

Kevin Markum:

Yes, Francoeur will make 2008 look like a complete fluke. I see him batting .270, 25 HRs, and 95 RBIs. Potentially, I see him doing much more considering it is likely that his patience has improved this offseason. I see a rise in his OBP for sure this season.

Brett Kettyle:

I think that Frenchy will rebound nicely in 2009. I am expecting a line of .275/25/100. However, I am cautious as coming into last season there was a ton of talk about how his added muscle would lead to extra power numbers and a career year.

Average Predicted Stats: .274/24/98

5. How much of Tommy Hanson and Jordan Schafer do you expect to see in 2009?

Cameron Britt:

I wouldn't be surprised to see Schafer make the team out of Spring Training, but if he doesn't, then I look for him to be patrolling CF at the Ted my late-May or early-June after he has had time to warm-up in AA or AAA.

Now, Tommy Hanson, barring absolute dominance in Spring Training, will not be on the Opening Day roster.

However, he will be part of the September call-ups unless the injury bug has bitten, in which case he will be up sooner.

Grant McAuley:

Both Hanson and Schafer will be major parts of Atlanta's future, but neither seem poised to break camp with the club this spring.

While Schafer has that outside chance, Atlanta may opt to see how both fair in Triple-A Gwinnett before jumping the gun on the time table the youngsters need to mature.

Hanson has proved to be one of the finest pitching prospects in the game. But with the recent additions to the rotation and Glavine's return, there is no rush to have him in the Braves rotation this April.

Rather than waste his talent as a middle reliever, the Braves will opt to let him make his regular starts in the minors and ready himself for an eventual call-up.

I predict that both could see some time as September call-ups, or as internal solutions should the injury bug strike the Braves hard again this season.

Joel Barker:

My money is on Schafer to make the club out of spring as the starting CF. He is another determined player ready to prove himself after hard times in 2008.

I think Hanson will probably start out at Triple-A, but will get the call-up at some point during the first half.

With the Glavine signing the Braves are already very deep at SP. Glavine will be the fifth starter, Kawakami fourth, Vazquez third, Jurrjens second, and Lowe first. Campillo will begin the season in the bullpen as a middle reliever.

If anything happens to any of those top-five Hanson will be just down the road at Gwinnett.

Kevin Markum:

I don’t expect to see much of them until the latter parts of the season.

Hanson will be the first in line if someone in the rotation is injured. I don’t think the management will bring Hanson up with 5 guys that are all pretty well established.

In Jordan Schafer’s case, I think the problem is that management sees him more for 2010.

The HGH issue hurt him badly as far as timing goes. He should have been up last year. I could see him winning the job out of spring training. What hurts him is that Anderson is ready and deserves the best shot of any of the likely candidates.

Brett Kettyle:

I think that both Schafer and Hanson will see time with the Braves this year, but I doubt that either of them will be with the team from the get go. The signings of Tom Glavine and Garret Anderson will make it harder for these prospects to make the team, but at some point, injuries or poor play will result in both of them getting called up.

Consensus: Schafer will have a chance to make the team out of Spring Training, though he likely will start the year in the minors. Hanson will start the year in the minors as well, but both will be in Atlanta at some time during 2009.

6. What will the final standings be in the NL East? Give a small explanation of your picks.

Cameron Britt:

1. Philadelphia Phillies   93-69
2. Atlanta Braves           90-72 Wild Card
3. Florida Marlins           87-75
4. New York Mets          85-77
5. Washington Nationals       60-102

Phils are the class of the division. Dominating pitching, overpowering line-up, and a deep bullpen, that's why they're the Champs.

Braves (through my biased goggles) have added much needed depth, have a deep bullpen, and a solid OBP producing line-up, plenty for the WC.

Mets, all the talent, none of the chemistry. if they can find the leadership, they're scary, but there's about as much of a chance of that happening as Knocahoma making a comeback.

Marlins are young an powerful (arms and bats), but lack discipline and control, 2009 is not their year, but two or three years from now, it'll be totally different.

The Nats are the Nats.

Grant McAuley:

The Philadelphia Phillies and New York Mets are not going to simply roll over and let the Braves creep back to the top of the standings, but Atlanta's additions should have them in a three team dogfight down the stretch.

The Mets revamped their Achilles heel, the bullpen, with Francisco Rodriguez and J.J. Putz, while the Phillies opted to spend their money on keeping last season's World Championship squad intact and adding Raul Ibanez to the mix.

Most will predict those two clubs to beat on each other, both on the field and in the press, so that could allow Atlanta to open some eyes.

Make no mistake, if Atlanta wants to contend, they will have to find a way to win the close games this season and hold their own on the road. It's hard to say that either the Mets or Phillies will take a tumble in the standings, but there is a very good chance the Braves could walk away with the NL Wildcard if all else fails.

Joel Barker:

Phillies: 101-61 – The Phillies have to be the clear-cut pick to win the East. That lineup is just stout. Their pitching staff is good enough.

Braves: 96-66 – The Mets and Braves are more evenly matched than most people think. The Mets lineup is better than Atlanta’s but not by much. Atlanta has the best rotation in the East. So I will say a second place finish for Atlanta is doable and probable. Atlanta wins the Wild Card.

Mets: 95-67 – A close battle all season long between the Mets & Braves

Marlins: 79-81 – The Marlins play well behind a decent, young rotation, and the two studs; Uggla and Ramirez

Nationals: 68-94 – Still the least of the East.

Kevin Markum:

1. Atlanta Braves

2. Philadelphia Phillies

3. New York Mets

4. Washington Nationals

5. Florida Marlins

Despite what analysts are saying, the Braves have the team to compete this season. I really believe that.

The Braves had the team last year, but the pitching was too inconsistent. The pitching this season is much improved and should be more reliable as well. The bullpen being healthy also is a key to their success.

The Phillies are not the team they were in 2008. Honestly, they were lucky to make the playoffs last year. How they got to the World Series and beat a talented team like that baffles me.

They have a strong ace in Hamels, an MVP filled infield, but beyond that…I don’t see them performing like they did last year. Still a good ball club though.

The Mets could easily finish on top of the Phillies, but I had to give respect to the World Champs.

I don’t like their outfield at all, that includes Beltran. I think Reyes and Wright are their only hope for production. Delgado is getting older and is becoming injury prone. Schneider is a good defensive catcher, but hitting is iffy. I would have liked to seen them address their outfield situation more this offseason.

Their rotation is terrible…yes terrible past Santana. Perez is not a second starter…he’s a good fourth starter. The eight and ninth innings are covered well with K-Rod and Putz…but can they handle New York pressure?

The Nationals are a team that will make the jump to fourh this year, not because they are better but because the Marlins are worst. The Marlins did almost nothing this offseason. SS will be their only bright spot in 2009. However, the Marlins can surprise people…

Brett Kettyle:

1. Philadelphia Phillies

2. Atlanta Braves (Wild Card)

3. New York Mets

4. Florida Marlins

5. Washington Nationals

I expect that the division (and therefore the Wild Card race) will go down to the last week of the season.

In the end, I expect the Phillies to have just enough pitching to hold off the Braves for the division championship, and the Braves to have just enough offense to hold off the Mets for the Wild Card.

The Marlins have plenty of young talent, but they won't compete with the big three.

The Nationals are the Nationals, they will struggle to score even with the addition of Adam Dunn, and the starting pitching will be horrendous in 2009.

Overall NL East Predictions for 2009

Philadelphia Phillies
Atlanta Braves (Wild Card)
New York Mets
Florida Marlins
Washington Nationals

Division Debate: Javier Vazquez Will Out-Perform Scott Olsen in 2009

Brett Kettyle — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 14:08:12 -0400

As Spring Training is going on, Bleacher Report asked all the community leaders for Major League Baseball teams to write an article debating a certain question against another community leader. Here is my side of the debate, which has to do with the Braves and Nationals.

The Topic of Debate

Two teams that underwent rotation construction this offseason were the Braves and Nationals. The Nationals added Scott Olsen from the Marlins and signed Daniel Cabrera away from Baltimore, while the Braves signed Derek Lowe away from the Dodgers and traded for Javier Vazquez. Which traded pitcher will have more success in his new location, Vazquez with the Braves, or Olsen with the Nationals?

The Braves acquired Javier Vazquez and lefty reliever Boone Logan in a trade with the Chicago White Sox in exchange for a group of prospects that included catcher Tyler Flowers.

The Nationals acquired Scott Olsen from the Marlins in a trade that also involved Emilio Bonifacio and Josh Willingham.

The 2008 Season

Javier Vazquez: 12-16, 200 K, 4.67 ERA, 1.32 WHIP

Scott Olsen: 8-11, 113 K, 4.20 ERA, 1.31 WHIP

Vazquez struggled through the 2008 season, posting good peripheral numbers but failing to translate them into a good record or ERA. His 2007 season was much better, and ongoing criticism from manager Ozzie Guillen may have helped contribute some to his numbers getting worse in 2008. Vazquez also suffered from a low LOB percentage (68.3) and an incredibly high BABIP (.328) in 2008. Even if he had remained in Chicago, Vazquez likely would have improved simply by having both of those stats regress toward the league average.

Olsen was the opposite of Vazquez in 2008. He struggled mightily in 2007, and his season last year was a great improvement. However, he also had an insanely high BABIP in 2007 (.350) and a crazy low BABIP (.266) in 2008. Assuming that his numbers regress toward the mean (which they typically do), Olsen will likely perform somewhere in between his performance from the two seasons.

The Trade Intangibles

Already it seems as if Vazquez is headed for improvement while Olsen is headed for regression in 2009. When you look at the intangibles in each trade, that fact becomes even more apparent.

Vazquez moves back to the NL, where he performed some of his finest work while with the Nationals' predecessor, the Montreal Expos. Pitchers tend to perform better in the NL, with an average ERA decrease of anywhere from .5-.75 runs (depending on what years you look at).

Vazquez will also benefit from changing ballparks. While US Cellular Field in Chicago had a park factor for runs of 1.122 in 2008, Turner Field had a park factor of 1.063.

Another way in which Vazquez stands to benefit in the 2009 season is the switch from the loud, critical, and controversial Ozzie Guillen to the well-respected, future Hall of Famer in Bobby Cox as manager.

Being that he didn't have a very good relationship with Guillen, this move can only benefit Vazquez.

Olsen once again is the opposite of Vazquez. Although he isn’t switching leagues (which would hurt him), he is moving to a worse team in the same division.

The Nationals are likely to give him less run support, which will eventually lead to fewer wins than he would have earned with the Marlins. He also won’t have the opportunities to face the punch-less Nationals lineup, which ranked 27th in batting average and 28th in runs last year.

Olsen will also have to deal with a move to a stadium that is more hitter friendly than Dolphin Stadium (which he has called home his entire Major League career). Dolphin Stadium had a park factor of .954 for runs in 2008 (favoring pitchers), while Nationals Park had a factor of 1.038 (favoring hitters).

2009 Projections

I will give both “expert” projections and my projections for the 2009 season for both players. The expert projections are the average of the mlb.com, espn.com, Bill James, CHONE, and ZiPS projections.

Expert Projections:

Javier Vazquez: 14-10, 3.77 ERA, 1.22 WHIP, 202 K

Scott Olsen: 9-12, 4.69 ERA, 1.41 WHIP, 126 K

My Projections:

Javier Vazquez: 15-9, 3.65 ERA, 1.20 WHIP, 210 K

Scott Olsen: 8-14, 4.65, 1.40 WHIP, 120 K

Conclusion

Even without a trade, Vazquez likely would have improved this year while Olsen would have regressed.

With the trade intangibles factored in, Vazquez is looking at being in a better situation with a different manager and playing in a better pitcher's park for 2009. He also moves to the NL, which is a huge benefit. Olsen moves to a worse team and a worse park for pitchers, while not getting the multiple yearly opportunities that he used to get against one of baseball’s most pathetic offenses.

The projections all favor Vazquez, and I agree that he will no doubt produce a better season with the Braves than Olsen will with the Nationals this year.

In conclusion, I think that Vazquez will help turn the Braves into contenders, while Olsen will make the Nationals...the Nationals.

Braves-Astros: Atlanta Rallies to Drop Houston

Brett Kettyle — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 16:32:15 -0500

For a while it looked like the Braves were going to start the Spring season 0-2 after falling behind 7-2 against the Houston Astros Thursday afternoon.

However, the Braves scored four runs in the seventh and two more in the eighth to win their first game of 2009.

Pitching Recap

Jorge Campillo got off to a rocky start, yielding three runs, five hits, and two walks in only two innings of work.

Tommy Hanson, the future ace of the Braves, also was a bit rocky in his first spring appearance. He gave up two runs in two innings of work. He gave up two hits and one walk while striking out two.

Mike Gonzalez didn't pitch well in his first appearance this spring. He managed to last only two-thirds of an inning and gave up two runs on two hits and one walk.

After Vladimir Nunez retired the final batter of the fifth, Jeff Bennett and Boone Logan each threw a scoreless frame.

James Parr picked up the win for the Braves while holding the Astros scoreless in the eighth and ninth innings. He allowed only one hit and also struck out a batter in a good first outing.

Hitting Recap

David Ross showed the power that the Braves will have coming off the bench by hitting a two-run HR off of Astros ace Roy Oswalt in the second inning. Ross also caught Darin Erstad when he attempted to steal second base in the first inning.

Ross' eventual replacement in the game was JC Boscan, who drove in the winning run in the bottom of the eighth inning with a double that followed a Jason Heyward walk.

Although a number of Braves were held hitless in multiple ABs (Jordan Schafer, Chipper Jones, Kelly Johnson, Martin Prado, Casey Kotchman, and Omar Infante), some young hitters stepped up in the rally that led the Braves to victory.

Brandon Jones finished with two hits, one run, and one RBI in four trips to the plate, and Gregor Blanco had an RBI single.

Freddie Freeman hit a game-tying HR in the eighth inning, meaning that he has picked up three RBI in the Braves' first two Spring Training games.

Matt Diaz and Jeff Francoeur also picked up their first hits of the spring with a single each.

Overall the Braves had a great comeback win led by some young players, many of whom will not be on the club when the opening day roster is announced. Although Hanson and Gonzalez struggled, they both should regain form by the time they make their next appearances.

The Braves (1-1) will travel to play the Pittsburgh Pirates (2-0) tomorrow at 1:05.

Braves Drop Spring Opener to Tigers

Brett Kettyle — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 16:01:09 -0500

The Braves played their first Spring Training game today against the Detroit Tigers in Lakeland, Florida, and dropped the contest 5-4.

They fell behind early, came back to tie it up, then saw pitcher Juan Perez give up the game-winning run in the eighth inning.

The Tigers got to Jair Jurrjens early, and he struggled through two innings, giving up 4 H, 2 ER and 1 BB while not striking out any.

With the Tigers sporting a 2-0 lead, Jo-Jo Reyes came into the game for the Braves and surrendered 1 ER and 3 H in his 2 IP, though he struck out two batters.

Behind 3-0, the Braves came roaring back in the fifth, and their three-run rally was capped by Freddie Freeman's two-out, two-RBI single. Brian McCann also had a sac fly during the inning.

Manny Acosta held the Tigers scoreless in the fifth, and Stephen Marek pitched a perfect sixth, allowing no baserunners and striking out one.

In the top of the seventh, Jordan Schafer homered to give the Braves their first lead of the game, but it was short-lived, as Eric O'Flaherty gave up a run on 2 H and 1 BB in the bottom of the inning.

The Braves failed to score in the eighth, and then Juan Perez allowed a run to score on a hit and two walks.

The Braves went quietly in the ninth against Kyle Bloom, who struck out two and earned the save.

Highlights:

W - Fu-Te Ni (DET) (1-0)
L - Juan Perez (ATL) (0-1)
S - Kyle Bloom (DET) (1)
Ramon Santiago (DET): 2-2, RBI, R
Gerald Laird (DET): 2-3, 2B, 3B, 2 R
Freddie Freeman (ATL): 1-2, 2 RBI
Jordan Schafer (ATL): 1-4, HR, RBI, 2 R, SB

A couple of youngsters played well for the Braves, and although it was only one game, Schafer and Marek may have already helped their chances of landing a spot on the regular-season roster with their strong opening performances.

The Braves' next game is tomorrow, Feb. 26, against the Houston Astros. The game will be on ESPN at 1:05 p.m.