Let’s just get this over with. I mean, even if we win this one, the Astros will just win Game Five again. I figure, why string it out?
(No, I haven’t given up on the reverse jinx yet.)
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I am sick to death of articles like the one filed late yesterday by ESPN’s Jason Stark:
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/playoffs2005/columns/story?columnist=stark_jayson&id=2185328
Stark doesn’t do this, but have you noticed how no one compares the Braves to the Buffalo Bills anymore? They compare the Braves to . . . the Atlanta Braves! The Braves need a win today, and badly.
If the Braves hope to win today, Furcal and Giles have to get on. Hudson has to keep the ball down. Pitch Biggio away or else he ends up at second base.
Go, Braves!
Houston has scored 18 runs. Of those, 9 have scored in just 2 innings, and that has been the difference in the series. And everyone here knows what those two innings have in common. We can win today if Hudson is effective AND economical. R, F, and D (I won’t use their names any more) need to stay nailed to the bench. It would also help if the top of the order remembered how to get on base.
The “Bullpen Struggles Continue” article on the Braves mlb site bothers me more than what any columnist has to say. I guess I’m expecting something along the lines of “I’m paid to get people out and I’m not getting it done. I need to get ahead in the count, and I need to miss some bats” instead of “I’m unlucky, hopefully my luck will change”. Seems pretty pathetic to me.
Braves could still win it but my managerial criticism starts with Reitsma who has been overused for someone who has shown the propensity to blow games. Why keep Thompson and HoRa on the roster if you are not going to use them. He seems to do this every playoff.
Responding to some things from last night’s post-game thread:
Disliking Pettitte is really indefensible. I mean, it’s fine to cheer against him–that’s what you should do, since he’s not on your team. But the man is–by absolutely all accounts–a truly great guy. Teammates always love him, he’s always active in the community, he’s a big game pitcher who doesn’t show up the opposing hitters or act stupidly (like throwing broken bats at hitters). By all accounts, he’s the equivalent of John Smoltz.
I don’t think you can say Chris Reitsma sucks, because it’s not like anybody ever hits the ball hard off of him. That said, however, he gives up way too much contact and too many hits. It’s been said before–if you’re pitching to contact on every batter, some of those swings become hits. I still think he’s incredibly unlucky, but he’s been ineffective, and it’s time to stop using him.
I have nothing against Joey Devine, either. But I’d stop bringing him in with multiple runners on base. He’s a guy you could use to start an inning I think, but Bobby continues to bring him into situations where he’s set up to fail.
Matthew, I don’t think it’s fair to say Bobby knows more about baseball than any of us do. We all know Jordan sucks and Bobby doesn’t. We all know Estrada can’t hit nearly as well as McCann. We all know McBride should be used instead of Foster. That’s your evidence, right there. He knows how to handle his players, yes, but to give him a free pass because he’s a manager and we aren’t and therefore he must be a baseball genius is silly and wrong.
Stark says in that article that there’s no way Smoltz comes back to start on 3 days rest in a game 5. I’d start Thomson today. But I know I’m alone on that one.
Like I mentioned in the previous thread, it’s like Bobby holds certain players in reserve for situations that will never arise (i.e., extra innings) because the players he does put in can’t get the job done. What’s he waiting for? Christmas? Why, for example, ignore Franco’s–or Betemit’s, for that matter–success as a pinch hitter if that’s why he’s on the roster in the first place? Why, as Alex R. pointed out, ignore McBride’s ability to get outs when he’s proven himself against some of the league’s premier power hitters? Does the fact that this is a division series negate the old saw that you have to play for a win while on the road? I’m just as flummoxed as the rest of you. I just don’t get it.
Mac,
How bout you get “trade Furcal” back up on the banner. We need some luck today…
JB
One other thing. Bobby is almost certain to go back to Estrada today b/c of the day game following night game thing. This is bad news but to a degree understandable.
However, if Brian Jordan trots out to leftfield I will be watching football this afternoon with the understanding that Bobby Cox is the worst post season manager in the history of baseball.
Betemit has proved himself this year I hope he sees some action today.
With Hudson going today against Backe, and no Smoltz for a possible game five, I’d almost rather lose today and just get this over with, than have to go home and drop another series at Turner Field. There is no way Thomson outpitches Petitte.
What are the chances Bobby uses Thomson in relief instead of the other guys.
This is where Hampton picked the Braves up last year.
The question I have is that if smoltz can’t go for game 5 anyways (Cox & Smoltz have both said so) then you are going to have to go with either Thompson or Ramirez and pray you picked the right one. This holds whether it’s game 4 or 5. So that being said, why not take your medicine today and come back with Hudson on full rest? also, if Hudson doesn’t have it, we’ll have to burn the bullpen early, if by some miracle, we live through that, no pen for game 5. I just think the pitching order sets us up to lose.
Thomson or Ramirez against Andy Pettitte…I’m going to go cry now.
It’s the lesser of two evils, really. If Ramirez must pitch, then I would rather it be at Turner Field, where there’s at least a chance of the ball staying in the park.
Point taken Dave, also, why has no one talked at all about that joke of a tricked up outfield in the juicebox, odd angles to try and manufacture a homefield advantage is one thing, but the jogs and hills in the juice box are a complete joke, and dangerous to boot.
I think the crew at the Ted should start digging tiger traps into the outfield, covering them with grass and only telling our guys where the holes are, that should even it out some. Picture this, “tavaraz racing over to make the grab and….HE’S DISSAPPEARED, furcal races for home. tough break for the stro’s there.”
even then we still have to get to monday
Well, McCann is in the projected starting lineup, but who knows how accurate that is. My bet is that McCann will be in the lineup today and if we win, Estrada will catch tomorrow because of Bobby’s fixation on the righty-lefty thing. Even though Estrada can’t hit from the right side of the plate and did nothing against Pettitte last time, who are we to buck tradition? Of course we don’t want to kill McCann, but if we don’t advance, he’ll have the whole offseason to rest anyway.
As for even entertaining the thought of HoHum pitching this game, NO. Lefty meatball pitcher in bandbox park against right-handed power hitting third baseman with multiple runners on base due to walks in an elimination game? No thanks.
I just listened to Stravinsky’s “Sacrificial Dance” from The Rite of Spring. I think I’m ready for today’s game.
Another bad thought: Francoeur is probably going to have a gigantic bruise on his left arm from where that pitch walloped him yesterday. Let’s hope it doesn’t affect him.
Yeah, we sure wouldn’t want him to stop hitting. Wait…he hasn’t hit even with a healthy hand? What’s going to change?
this sucks…we don’t have a prayer today b/c we will pull all that stupid theory crap…day game after night game= NO MCCANN, B.J in leftfield= runners in scoring position score on anything hit to him AND at least two guaranteed strikeouts for Backe
On the off chance, Stu, that he might hit, it would be nice.
Of course, if it hurts to swing, maybe he’ll be more patient and only swing at good pitches. It could be a blessing in disguise.
Ah, who am I kidding?
Here is why we don’t win in October.
Bobby panics.
That is it right there, no way around it. He would pinch hit me for Ryan because I am right handed and I have more of an advatage. If we loose a game in the playoffs he puckers his ass up and makes huge changes.
Durring the regualar season he is laid back and that is why we win. He panics in October too much.
He doesn’t walk the bases loaded in the regular season in the first inning, why start now?
The pen moves last night were just panic moves. I am not worried Huddy will look good today and Smoltz will dominate on Monday (we all know he is going to start)
Lineup according to Yahoo! Sports is exactly the same as yesterday.
While you hope that Thomson pitches well, you have to allow for the possibility that he will have to be pulled early, which in game 4 would mean that HR comes in, and nobody wants that in Minute Maid. If Thomson falters in game 5, at least you may have Smoltz for a few innings, and there is more margin for error with HR at home. Hudson on short rest is the right call IMO.
McCann is in the starting lineup!
1. R Furcal, SS .284 12 58 46
2. M Giles, 2B .291 15 63 16
3. C Jones, 3B .296 21 72 5
4. A Jones, CF .263 51 128 5
5. A LaRoche, 1B .259 20 78 0
6. J Francoeur, RF .300 14 45 3
7. R Langerhans, LF .267 8 42 0
8. B McCann, C .278 5 23 1
9. T Hudson, P .138 0 6 0
The lineup:
R. Furcal
M. Giles
C. Jones
A. Jones
A. LaRoche
J. Francoeur
R. Langerhans
B. McCann
T. Hudson
Smitty and I think alike.
no Jordan!
1-3 are gonna get on base today for Andruw, who will continue to have a hot bat.
We will see Jordan and Estrada if there is a game 5. I am not holding any hope (I am going with the reverse jinx as well). I had my support on Reitsma, but Bobby can’t continue to test his luck with a guy who is definitely cursed. If I see Reitsma again within the next two games, I am staging a boycott on Bobby.
Mac, I can’t believe you took off the “Trade Furcal” banner down…that was what gotten the Braves started in June…can’t believe the banner is so powerful…
God, this NFL pregame sucks. Why would anyone watch this (unless tuning in five minutes early for a baseball playoff game)?
Is it going to be another 30-minute delay again on the game starting time?
Guess not.
Furcal set the tone that inning. Swinging for a homerun on the first pitch of the game. This is gonna be a long day.
JoeyT, you mean you don’t like listening to Michael Irvin chuckle ignorantly, after making incoherent statements? I don’t understand. I wonder if he’s still on crack.
Good start for Hudson. Houston was just as impatient as we were.
Andruw is totally in the zone. He’s carrying the team once again.
AJ has been on fire!! Too bad Furcal-Giles-Chipper have not.Not a good time for the old LaRoche to make an appearance.
That strike zone is gigantic.
Is that Eric Gregg behind the plate?
At least Backe had to throw some pitches this inning.
Somebody has to step up and help Andruw out. Francoeur is really starting to get on my nerves.
Eric Gregg II.
Furcal’s had a nice at bat. A gazillion pitches and no out.
WEAR THIS GUY OUT
I think the ump’s tightened the zone. I see Backe throw the same pitch he threw an inning ago for a strike now called a ball. Maybe I’m just misremembering.
2 on for AJ, this is where he needs to come through.
ANDRUW HIT BY PITCH!
The Astros are so dead now.
Wow, now its up to LaRoche. Let’s see the new improved model, please.
You suck, LaRoche!
(Just for old times’ sake.)
That’s it. NOBODY here ever says another negative word about Rochey.
That’s it baby, make him pay!!!
Way to take one for the team, Andruw! I like our chances now after that HBP.
I TAKE BACK EVERY THING I EVER SAID ABOUT LAROCHE
GAME FIVE COMING UP, BABY
Holy Crap
Unbelieveable!
He sucks!!!!! Trade him now!!!!
Salami!
ADAM IS MY NEW HERO!!!
You’re right about the tightening of the zone, JoeyT. He started LaRoche with the same breaking ball off the plate that was called strike 2 against him in his first at bat.
Jaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!! STFU, Houston crowd!
How about that? Game tying three run homerun in last year’s game 4, and grand slam in this year’s playoff. There is something about Adam…
I’ve been saying that for months kc. I’m glad some people are coming around 😉
Somebody had got to come up with a big hit someday. Let’s hope 4 runs is enough.
Is it wrong to be greedy and ask for four more?
Looks like Bobby made the right call with Hudson.
Pitch counts through 3: Backe 55, Hudson 36. Hudson looks really sharp so far. Let’s knock Backe around a bit more, shall we?
Way for Hudson to come back and strike out Biggio a second time after falling behind 3-0.
Well, Mike, his slow August was very disappointing. I would still say Adam’s second season has been a disappointment, but his grand slam has just bought me another year of patience with Adam.
Sophomore slump. Happens alot. I still think he will be a fine player. We’ll see.
Mike is having an affair with LaRoche. He told me so on AIM.
That was a great catch. The entire team is so on today.
And he’s going to kill me when he reads this 😉
Big, big play by AJ. Pitch counts through 4: Backe 66, Hudson 45.
This is the Hudson we have been waiting for the whole season!!!
Wow, that was a big inning. Hudson looks GREAT. Should always pitch on three days rest, I guess.
BTW, who said Smoltzie cannot go in game 5? Guess I missed that.
Good start, Marcus and Chipper. Let’s see if we can knock Backe out right here.
You’re just jealous because Adam is sexier than B-Rob, Jennygirl 😉
hah
Andruw didn’t get a hit with runners in scoring position. Obviously, he sucks.
It would be so nice not to agonize for the rest of this game. 4 runs is not enough with our bullpen. How many pitches could Hudson effectively throw on 3 days rest?
Oh, I think Mike’s jealous of BRob! Sorry, Mike, you’ll have to compete for my affections.
Yeah, Mac, I agree with you, it’s all Andruw’s fault.
This could not be going any better. 4.2 innings of Houston’s BP coming up with a game tomorrow. Hudson looking as sharp as he has all season, and on pace to go at least 8. Could not ask for anything more.
Like Babe Ruth would ever drink a light beer. Not exactly a calorie counter, the Babe.
I have a question that’s probably kinda stupid, but anyway: If you were Berkman and you had to catch Andruw’s flyball, no chance to throw Furcal out, do you still catch the ball and make it a sac fly, or do you let it drop for strike one?
LaRoche giveth, and LaRoche taketh away. I guess I’ll forgive him.
Hey, Bobby, pinch hit Langarhans with Jordan now!!!
Good question, Frank. I think you have to let it drop. It’s just so automatic, no one thinks about it.
It’s not like that situation comes up much anymore, with the inch and a half of foul territory in most parks.
I’ve always wondered about that…not to get all historical here, but the same thing happened in the epic Reds-Red Sox Game 6 in the ’75 WS. George Foster caught a deep fly ball in foul territory and threw out the runner at the plate (it would’ve been the winning run). It seemed like a really risky move. I guess ballplayers would rather go for it than swallow their pride and let a catchable ball drop.
I think Berkman was too tired running that inning to think about your question.
That seals it. Smoltzie will start tommorrow.
I think I disagree with that one in this situation. You don’t give AJ another chance to hurt you even worse.
Brief aside about football: The Falcons’ punter/kickoff guy just kicked a 58-yard field goal.
Go Eagles!
I thought Bobby and John said he couldn’t pitch. Maybe not?
Anyone hear the talking head on TV (Sutcliff?) talking about Smoltz’s shoulder? Doesn’t sound good.
Braves website says Ramirez is starting if theres a game 5.
Well, Smoltz made it seem like he will be ready. Based on what Rick said, I now am not so sure. I guess we will see.
But, we should probably stop getting ahead of ourselves…
Don’t forget: HoRam 8-1, 3.59 ERA at Turner Field this season.
Of course, Sosa was 9-0 on the road before yesterday.
Can we get through this game before we start speculating? I feel like we’re jinxing it.
That’s very good damage control right there!
I don’t have cable, so I’m “watching” via MLB.com Gameday.
Can I tell you how agonizing it is to see the words “in play, run scoring play” appear? You don’t know if it’s a single run on a groundout (like this time) or a grand slam. You just have to wait for it to be posted.
That was big to get out of that mess with only 1 run scoring. Through 5, Hudson is at 62 pitches. He could still conceivably go 8, but 7 is more probable.
I agree with Jenny, I don’t feel like talking about another game before today’s game is finished.
Could have been worse. Still, only five innings down and the 2-3-4 hitters coming up. Six or seven more runs couldn’t hurt if we have to go to the pen soon.
What Game 5? Season ends today. It’s over. We’ve got no chance.
How’s that?
Hudson can make his pitches because the Braves are playing great defense behind him. Go, Langerhans!
Yea seriously, we have no chance at winning this game.
Wow, fan interference double for Hudson. Yikes.
Not with the way our pitchers are hitting. First Sosa, now Hudson. What’s the world coming to?
That’s a poor call. Hudson shouldn’t have been awarded second.
I’ll take it, though.
Simple rule: if your fan interferes, you don’t get any benefit of the doubt. It’s your own fault. Shut up, Sutcliffe.
Sutcliffe’s comments about Smoltz’s shoulder are certainly cause for worry.
Sutcliffe is also very stupid. He said something along the lines of: “Tim Hudson is pitching around Ausmus because he thinks the pitcher is going to hit next, but I can tell you that Mike Gallo won’t be hitting. It’s probably that he spent so many years in the American Leauge, he’s conditioned to relax with the 9th place hitter coming up.”
First of all, there’s no way Hudson assumes Gallo was hitting next. Second of all, his second point makes no sense. If anything, pitching in the AL would lead a pitcher to be more, not less, cautious with the 8th place hitter, since he’s not used to pitchers batting.
And I’m going to go ahead and agree with the decision to start HR tomorrow if there is a tomorrow. It’s in Atlanta and at night, as somebody pointed out. Also, the last time he was bumped from the rotation, when he came back, he pitched a gem. I have a feeling he’s feeling a little shafted again, and he might give us a gutsy (and hopefully good) performance. All of this is pure speculation…I just can’t help but hope.
Some insurance here would be helpful…
I have an idea of why fans may not want to come to games in Atlanta: if they’re really charging $30 for parking, I wouldn’t go either. That’s completely ridiculous.
Crap!
Way to go Chip…
Where is the parking 30 dollars? I always pay 10.
Also, would anyone be against bringing Betemit in to play third? If he doesn’t hit, well, he’s no worse than Chipper. And at least he’ll play some defense.
Where did you get $30? It’s $15 for the lots right by the park, and there’s some kind of shuttle service from the Ampitheatre for $5.
Oh boy. Hope that’s not going to hurt us.
Oh, and according to Sutcliff, Bobby wins 10 games a year on his own, “outmanaging” the other manager. Shut up, Rick, you don’t know what you’re talking about.
Let’s take care of today’s game first…
I heard from someone who went to game 2 that they were charged $30 for parking at Turner Field. If that’s true, someone should be arrested.
Stu, it’s usually $10, but they up it to $15 for the playoffs, and it’s pre-purchase only.
What do you mean? I mean bring in Betemit immediately, to help us win this game.
Thanks, JoeyT. Your friend should do more research before parking, jenny.
Maybe he took two cars? That would be dumb. Unless he had like 10 people.
According to Don, Hudson is averaging about twelve pitches per inning.
Yeah, Rick, then we bring them back when they’re completely done, like Jordan.
You are funny Mac.
Good AB for Andruw, despite the out.
Andruw’s hitting only .615 for the series?
Slacker.
Somebody please hire Fredi Gonzales to manage.
terrible baserunning
What the F**CK was Gonzalez thinkin’ waving him? That’s LAROCHE running, not the f***imng Carl LEwis.
They keep on touting Tavares’ first base sprint time. I wonder what LaRoche’s is. That would be good comedy.
Fredi is legally blinded.
Wow. Tom Brady just threw the highest pass ever and it dropped 55 yards down field in Bethel Johnson’s arms. Perfect touch.
Dear Marlins fan lurkers,
Yes, your future manager just sent LaRoche to a certain out for no real reason.
I write this to you knowing you don’t exist, as the Marlins have no fans during football season.
Sincerely,
JoeyT
Sutcliffe, LaRoche was hustling. He’s just really, really slow.
Tom Brady is someone else you’re going to have to compete with, Mike.
Yeah, Sutcliffe is making me mad. That’s as fast as LaRoche gets. It’s on Gonzalez that he waved him home. Just really, really stupid. Did you see Cox’s glare at Gonzalez?
I think Sutcliffe needs to publicly apologize to Adam LaRoche the way I did to Alex R.
Wow. Andruw tripped and fell in center and it didn’t include the damn hill…
Yay, double play. Time for more runs.
So, what do you think? Is LaRoche the slowest non-catcher, non-pitcher in the National League?
Very important double play, that let Hudson to go for another inning with 81 pitches after seven!
Boom!
Here’s a challenge: say “Wandy Rodriguez” three times fast.
I keep saying Wandy Wodweeguez.
MCCANN!!!!
SWEET!!!!!!!!
I want to see a race between LaRoche and Estrada.
Anyone named Wandy deserves to give up at least one homer.
I am going to write a song about Wandy Rodriguez, but I don’t know if it will be to the tune of “Windy” or “Mandy”.
Like I said. Time for more runs. Thanks, Brian.
Don was saying that LaRoche should have been watching Gonzalez instead of the ball, and that this is what cost him at the plate.
Go, McCann!
I vote for “Windy.” More lyric possibilities.
Bobby, McCann can hit lefties, so can Langerhans. If I see Estrada and Jordan again, I will stage a boycott on Bobby.
Can someone help me out because I’m starting to feel crazy. Didn’t Hudson start Wed. afternoon and isn’t Wed. to Sun. 4 DAYS rest. I keep hearing them say he is pitching on 3 days rest. Wed-Thur. (1 day) Thur.-Friday (2 days) Friday-Sat. (3 days) Sat.-Sun. (4 days!!)
Marcus was not thrown out by Ausmus. The ball hit him and he was automatically out. Get it straight.
At least the radio people aren’t calling him “Brian Giles” unlike certain people whose last names start with “Sut” and end with “cliffe.”
Well, at least they stopped talking about the balk.
Let’s see…
Who’s coming in to pitch the eighth inning?
Throwing a pitch that McCann hammers fair?
Who’s bending down with dismay at a homer?
Everyone knows it’s Wandy!
Not very good, but it’s a start.
Jason, what you mention is a pet peeve of the one and only Don Sutton.
I think they just mean three days off. Like three days rest beyond what he would get if he pitched every day.
Well, he pitched Wednesday. So, that wouldn’t be considered a day of rest. He rested on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
No, man. You’re on it. The lyrics suit the melody, which is what I meant to say earlier.
Mac, I think Nick Johnson might be slower than LaRoche. I’d also think of Bagwell, Thome, and Klesko as candidates.
I guess I could calculate speed scores or something, but I’m lazy.
Farnsworth out. Bobby takes no chances here.
Is Bobby going to pull him?
Great job Tim, you are the man!
I thought they showed Farnsworth walking out on TV, unless I saw something wrong.
Yeah, Farnsworth is coming in.
No, you’re right, JoeyT. Farnsworth’s coming in, but there’s no need to throw Biggio a fastball. Sliders from here on out.
Thanks. That makes sense. I just think that if it has been about 96 hours since you last pitched that should count as four days.
Wandy might require an orchestral work to fully capture his linguistic beauty.
He was off the bag. Good call.
What about a pizzicato section for the bridge? Something snappy and crisp (unlike Wandy’s pitches).
Another blown call.
Okay, I’m on radio and I blanked out for a minute and now I’m lost. Who’s pitching, who’s on base, who’s at bat? How many outs? What inning?
Sorry.
Farnsworth, loaded, Berkman, 1 out, 8th
Bases loaded. Berkman at the plate. How many out?
okay. bases empty. 6-5 braves. ugh.
Announcer’s jinx once again. Friggin’ grand slam! Crap.
I do not believe this crap.
absurd
Shake it off, Kyle. It’s still a one run game with the Braves best reliever on the mound. Keep perspective.
Okay. So who the hell is going to save this now? Joey?
It’s been 4 days since he last pitched. He had 3 days rest. It’s not the same thing.
“Days rest” is just another way of saying “days off since he last pitched”. If you go to work on both Monday and Tuesday, would you say that you had a day off in between?
I am now on line and I can’t believe this shit.
How huge is McCann’s home run now. Thank God for that.
A 335 ft. grand slam. Ridiculous.
When was the last time two grand slams were hit in one playoff game?
That stadium is a joke.
That’s a HUGE strikeout.
I am sure it’s already been talked about online today but Thomson vs. Pettitte tomorrow…series is over for us tomorrow. I think we are prolonging the inevitable with Smoltz out.
Hell, with the LaRoche home run today, it’s IDENTICAL to last years’ 1st round series.
By the way, what was said on here today abnout LaRoche’s piece of shit basrunning? I hope he got ripped hard for his LACK OF HUSTLE
I’m crying…this is unbelievable
Buck up, James. It ain’t over yet.
Who’s coming up for the Braves in the top of the ninth?
Alex R., the Braves site is reporting HR for tomorrow.
And, really, the LaRoche thing was the fault of the third base coach. How can he not know Adam’s as slow as molasses?
Why did Bobby bring in Julio, do you think? Defensive reasons, or sitting LaRoche? I think Adam would have handled that throw from Chipper. . .
Yes, but if we do make it back to Atlanta tomorrow, it won’t matter with freaking Thomson having to face a normally rested Pettitte on the mound.
what’s worse? Bobby you KNOW will bench McCann and Langerhans tomorrow against Pettitte. If Bobby does that he deserves to be run over by an 18 wheeler. Anyway who disagrees is just wrong.
What a garbage ball park. Opposite field fly ball granny followed by a fly ball near tie game homer. What a complete joke
What a shitty inning, but the Braves still have a lead…
If you look back at the stats, the one area Farnz has been somewhat vulnerable since joining the Braves is the long ball. Most of his others have been solo jobs (he usually starts an inning, so having runners on base is not typical).
Why did Bobby pull Laroche? He wasnt making a point in this game at this time.
Saying Bobby cox needs to be hit by a truck after the amazing job he has done over the years is a pathetic comment. Anyone who disagrees is just wrong.
Saying ANYBODY needs to be hit by a truck is kind of pathetic, but I concur with the feeling, Alex: if I see Brian Jordan and Johnny Estrada in that lineup tomorrow I will break something.
Mike,
I loook at gthe utterly shit job he’s done in the playoffs. And I am angry so let me VENT.
Cox probably pulled LaRoche for that garbage effort LaRoche gave around the basepaths.
Yea, I’m not really sure why he would do that, especially since LaRoche won’t be starting tomm. Maybe it was the lazy running or maybe he hurt himself.
Jenny,
i was venting…I am very complimentary of you so you don’t need to call me pathetic…I am angrily venting…let me vent.
And no one can defend Cox’s managing job.
And will every one on here not be furious if there’s a Game 5 and Jordan/Estrada are playing ahead of Langerhans/McCann?
God, people, just let me vent here. I am not serious OBVIOUSLY however I am angry at Cox.
Farnsworth needs to nut up right here.
I think someone needs to calm himself 🙂
…and how do you figure that no one can defend the managing job of Bobby over the years? That’s ridiculous.
Mike, I don’t even know what that means, but I agree.
You can’t blame Cox for what has happened in this game. He tried to get Hudson through the 8th, and pulled him for our best reliever when he got in some trouble. Some less than stellar defense and a cheap granny got Houston back in it. The bottom of their order is up, hopefully we get through it.
You’ve got to figure that Smoltz will be coming out of the bullpen tomorrow.
Kirk,
Read my earlier comments…I was talking about Cox’s overall job in this series and his job in Octobers past.
Mike:
I was speaking about Cox’s BS in the collective Octobers…thats’ what I am talking about.
Alex, please. Sit down. Drink some water. It’s not that bad.
Alex! I can’t believe you would call for the death of another human being! Seeing as you were being absolutely serious, and that this is a forum for grave, emotionless discussion, I have no choice but to condemn you for your call to murder!
one to go
come on
Message to Chip: Palmeiro already PH.
Home Run? NO FUCKING WAY
no
way
oh my god.
. . . . . . .
Okay. Now it’s that bad.
Tie game.
F*ckin’ Hell….
So how much did they pay to hire these umpires?
Too freaking incredible for words. A 2-out homer to Brad freaking Ausmus. Un-freaking-believable.
Fine I am really upset about this and I am sorry for the truck remark. I will just leave now. I am just really heartbroken and angry right now.
Forget this.
I cant believe what I just witnessed. How can we be that unlucky…
you gotta love our bullpen.
That was NOT a home run.
I was kidding about the truck thing, Alex. I was being sarcastic because it’s an internet message board and overstatement really isn’t a big deal.
Explain how that wasnt a homer, i cant see it.
That stadium is a complete fucking joke.
If we lose this game, LaRoche’s baserunning will go down in history with that of Lonnie “Skates” Smith.
Some people just don’t get hyperbole, Alex. Don’t sweat it. Your venting makes me feel better.
I was wrong. It was. In real time, it looked below the line.
I don’t believe this. Brad f’n Ausmus. I just want to beat the crap out of those f’n umps.
It wasn’t a homer in any normal ballpark. Neither was the grand slam. I hate that they’re allowed to pull this crap.
I’m done. I have had enough of this junk. As a Michigan fan and Braves fan, I feel like I get kicked in the nuts every year by both teams. I quit Michigan yesterday, and I am quitting the Braves today.
If that’s not a change in momentum, I don’t know what is. Been a nice season….this would be an awful way to end it.
BEAT THE LUCKY ASTROS! COME ON!
It cleared by three inches, JoeyT.
Im afraid to think who they would bring in next inning.
I realize now that if we actually managed to pull this off, our bullpen is SO absolutely pathetic that there’s no chance we could win against St. Louis (or probably even San Diego).
When the teams leaves Houston and they need to leave the bullpen. Just don’t let them back in the clubhouse. They’ve cost us this series. They should be ashamed. They should return their salaries.
Is there a worse bullpen in the majors?
Thomson? It’s Reitsma.
Yea…take three…okay rick……..
Well, hey, at least I don’t have to worry about driving eight hours and paying $30 for parking on my day off tomorrow.
I can’t believe even the best reliever failed.
Langerhans on. Knock him home, Super Rookie.
I saying this now…while Reitsma is warming up. If he comes in…season over. Mark my words.
Bobby’s got R up. Can’t believe he wouldn’t try McBride first.
Why on earth didn’t Lidge pitch that inning? What the hell were they saving him for?
Alex R, I’m very sorry.
And I think I’m going to be sick.
Kirk, I think they’ve got a bunch of RH hitters coming up.
Well, steel211, the season ended before Reitsma came in. It sucks being a Braves fan in October.
Why not bat Betemit instead of Kelly Johnson?
What did we do? Honestly? Why are we being punished?
Falcons are about to lose on a last second field goal. All around bad day.
Stop the insanity, Braves! Honestly, I have to laugh. Really laugh my ass off at this. Astros’ luck has nothing to do with it — we have all just witnessed the nadir of pitching incompetence. I mean, Farnsworth practically conceded the grand-slam to Berkman and now Ausmus? WTF? Can’t get the job done without the right tools.
Brian
I think Betemit may have died before the playoffs started and no one has said anything yet. That’s the only possible explanation for his inexplicable absence from the last two games.
Farnsworth just became a lot cheaper this offseason. Not that I want him.
I can’t believe Bobby’s sending Reitsma out there again. F**k redemption.
No Betemit in game as pinch hitter and now Reitsma????
Maybe the Braves aren’t tipping the clubhouse guys as well as they should?
McBride warming up.
Now it’s our bullpen against their’s. Guess how that’s going to end…
Oh my god.
My heart just skipped 6 beats there.
What a cheap park. Opposite field, off the end of the bat. ridiculous
Bring the paddles. My heart just stopped.
this ballpark is a f**king joke…
Charging to 360…CLEAR!
That foul could not have been any closer to being a HR. Maybe R’s luck is changing? Doubtful.
That first pitch to Berkman has been a strike all day.
Thanks, jenny. I needed that.
great, and the falcons just lost. at least the dawgs cked the crap out of tennessee
Ensberg up to win it. IBB?
Berkman out!
If Burke doesn’t score here, that hit might have been a GOOD thing.
Time to bring in the priest for last rites.
Mac…I dont know what we did to deserve this. This is terrible. Falcons loss doenst help any.
Well, folks, David has a sinus rhythm. At least temporarily.
I turned off the game…I don’t want to wind up with an ulcer at 18. So this site is all the updates I have.
Good move with the IBB. One run loses it. Ensberg on doesn’t matter, you get the force out, and Ensberg is just ridiculous.
Chip’s making Bagwell out to be the next Kirk Gibson. Lord, I hope not.
No matter what happens here, I want to apologize for posting HoRam’s home pitching stats when we were up 6-1. My bad.
whew!!!
Whew! Dodged a bullet there.
Great job Chris.
Apology accepted, atlinl.a. We all jumped the gun.
We live to see another…15 minutes or so.
Survived an R innning. I can’t take this much longer.
My hearts racing right now, I felt like I was out there pitching.
Anybody listening to this on the radio? You’d think Chip was an Astros homer based on his commentary. Building up Bagwell. I hate Chip. I wish Don would break his nose or something.
The Falcons did very well without Vick, we should be proud of them!
Today’s my birthday. It would be nice if they’d pull it out (I don’t ask for much as far as presents go).
I think there’s a good chance this thread breaks the record for comments.
Good at bat from Furcal.
It’s time for the doubles machine to get going again.
Nice bunt, Marcus.
%^*#^%$#^%^ bunts!
Dammit, how many times does Giles have to show he can’t bunt before Cox gets the message.
Why didn’t they just have Furcal steal in the first place?
Cancel that.
I can’t believe that bunt call. I wish Alex was here to be all over that.
No DP, Chipper, Pleeeeeeease!!!
THAT’S WHY I HATE THE BUNT!! Guys rave on about small ball, but you don’t execute sometimes & you’re just giving them outs.
And then Furcal steals anyway – why not just go with the straight steal instead of wasting outs on bunts!
And, no, I’m not one of these guys who says you should NEVER bunt. But it’s called for way too much…
I am so sicked of the Astos complaining. They don’t deserve to win this game.
The Braves are working the count.
Hit one out to the left field Chip. Show them how stupid this stadium is!!!
Very nice slo-mo replay close up of Furcal’s foot. He was out and we caught a break there. Let’s make something out of it.
JoeyT
I am here I was just remaining silent. Giles cant bunt but at least he was HACKING like always.
thank god they walked Chipper…Andruw has been the far better hitter this series.
okay Andruw, if you’re the MVP, prove it right here.
Do they pitch to Andruw?
It’s always f-ng foul when its our guys.
I agree…that Ausmus hit was a bullshit home run. I hate this ballpark. HATE IT.
We just can’t seem to get a break.
The strike zone has shrunk in the last 2-3 innings.
well, we got a break on that Furcal overslide.
God dammit. dammit dammit dammit.
*bangs head against keyboard*
An opposite field single here would do just fine.
Shut the hell up Sutcliffe.
Everyone strikes out once in a while you dumbass.
Why is he talking down to people like he’s f’ing Hank Aaron.
Pick him up, Julio. Dala una vuelta, viejo. Dala una vuelta.
that was LOW.
Nice one, Raffy. That’s ballsy.
Seriously, Sutcliffe has been awful…as BAD as Pastel Boy Lyons.
*bangs head on keyboard*
*blood on keyboard*
Way to pick us up Franco…I dont know how much longer our bullpen can hold.
I applaud Julio though for really WORKING Lidge ansd working the count. I know we may lose but Julio shows there’s such a thing as a QUALITY out. I hope he’s back with the Braves next year.
Damn it…
I have turned off the volume a long time ago, I can’t stand Sutcliffe…
My prediction: Our bullpen holds for approximately .1 more innings.
REITSMA FOR TWO INNINGS!!!!!!!!! We re playing russian roulette right now.
Is anyone else having a hard time sitting still?
Keep fighting, Braves. Just block out those asshole Astros fans, and these asshole announcers.
it feels like the weight of the world is against the Braves.
If there’s any justice in this world, we get a chance tomorrow night. Just one more chance.
We need to give positive reinforcement to Reitsma right now…c’mon Chris. C’mon…one more strike, baby!!!
I’m now very glad they pinch-ran for Berkman.
Great job, Chris….I am applauding his 2 inning effort. Great job.
Maybe Reitsma needed to be more tired?
Escaped two R innings. We’re pushing the envelope here.
Okay, Reitsma proved his mettle, now who pitches the 12th?
Mac,
should we dare try Reitsma for 1 more inning? I mean, it will officially burn him for tomorrow but maybe we should russian roullette it again?
How very un-clown-like, eh, steel?
Time for Smurph to step up, dang it. Or Langerhans, again. Or McCann, again. Someone, please. Please. Please?
I can’t believe this, when I finally lose faith in Reitsma, he is on fire!!! I should just go ahead and say I have lost faith in the whole Braves team!!!
I too will applaud the effort by Reitsma. I cant believe I just said that but he pitched great today.
Brower in the 12th
Francouer is due, DUE for something magicla right here…c’mon Frenchy.
I never lost faith in Reitsma; however, he should not go out for a third inning.
Well, here comes McCann…can he save our asses one LAST TIME?
whoops…hometown boy Langerhans…a homer would be nice or get on for McCann!
I’m with Mike. Let Brower pitch the 12th.
Yes stu…very un-clown-like. He officially turned in his wig and red nose.
As if the braves explosion isnt bad enough, it’s Dallas 17 Eagles 0 through one quarter >:O
Langerhans had a great at bat there.
McCann is about to hit a two-run HR. He’s so clutch. He’s the new Jeter, except that he actually IS clutch.
Langerhans AGAIN.
Hes on for the 4th time.
If we win today, and Bobby starts Brian Jordan tomorrow, I am going to be unbelievably furious. Just screeching mad.
Thomson warming up. Betemit on deck.
Betemit on deck.
Now, Bobby, THATS good managing.
FINALLY.
Thomson in the bullpen
HE S ALIVE!!! Betemit on deck…
Hmmm, Thomson. This smacks of Charlie Liebrandt to me.
Wait, you mean Bobby is PLAYING the .300 hitter?
Did anyone just hear Sutcliffe?
Why in hell would HoRam start over Thomson??
why
???????????????????????
Can someone explain why HoRam would get the start over Thomson?
Smoltz with his arm in a sling would be more trustworthy.
stop worrying about tomm. It jinxed us once already.
From the Braves official site, Alex:
Heres the good news: if this game keeps going, they are running out of pitchers and Lidge is getting very very spent.
Even if Lidge pitched tomorrow (assuming there is a tomorrow), he wont be effective.
The Astros have yet to see a Braves lefty start, plus Ramirez pitches well at Turner Field, especially at night. Thomson would be on call, of course, as would Smoltz, et al.
Seeing that even Langerhans can steal on Lidge, why oh why was Giles bunting?
Please oh please stop talking about this hypothetical Game 5…
P.S.
Bobby says that Ramirez is laying off his cutter, which is the pitch that’s gotten him into so much trouble, especially with the long ball.
JoeyT,
I see your posting and I still think its a horrible horrible horrible horrible decision to start HoRam EVER in the post season.
Just be thankful that a Game 5 would be in Atlanta and at night….the one scenario I have seen Horam be at all successful. Can you IMAGINE if Horam had started a day game in Houston. It would have been a 15-0 game.
I will be shocked if we get another chance to bat this season.
Didn’t we already agree that speculation about tomm. is a bad idea?
Alex R., I completely agree with you about HR. I was just posting to let you know that the HR game 5 thing is verified, and not just an ESPN guy extrapolating.
JoeyT
I know you agree…no biggie. But still, I think Thomson is a better start tomorrow though turning Berkman around is effective.
I cant believe I am going to say this but the longer the game goes, the more it favors us…as bad as our pen has been, Houston is almost out of pitchers. I also don’t know how well rested Clemens is.
Thompson looks sharp so far…
so far, Thomson looks CRISP out there.
I think we should consider letting him bat and keeping him out there like a start.
I just hope that Thomson shuts down the Astros for however many innings it takes to eek out a run, and that Smoltz magically heals overnight.
That’s all I want.
Bobby’s counting on Thomson taking them the rest of the way.
Great inning John…njow it makes me wish more we had you starting tomorrow but we need to be as positive as possible now about HoRam if theres a Monday game.
Let’s pray for that problem and that we escape the bandbox from hell, ALIVE.
F-ng Houston.
Alex, I think that’s absolutely what Bobby has in mind. You have to keep him out there in a game like this.
This is the second-most comments for a game thread ever. Record is 413, August 20, lost to the Padres in 13 on Devine’s first grand slam.
Thomson looked really good. We actually may have an edge now. Houston’s bullpen is almost completely spent.
Everytime Ensberg is at the plate, we should walk him. The remaining Astros lineup is a complete joke except Biggio.
Guys, there is no tomorrow until we take care of today….
Lidge has thrown 45 pitches…do they send him back out there?
Who’s left on the bench? Orr, Jordan, who else?
Kirk,
I fully agree…even if we dont score right now, if we can just keep holding them, I think we can pull this out late. There 8th and 9th inning momentum is a past memory now.
Question: Is Clemens available to pitch? Just wondering.
I don’t see Bobby using any more bench. I mean, he can’t even pinch-run for Franco with no backup first basemen.
On two days rest? I doubt it.
David,
Estrada’s left, right? And don’t even utter Jordan’s name. He’s Voldemort to me now..the one who’s name shall not be uttered or something.
Clemens has moved to the bullpen, so one would assume he’s available to pitch.
TERRY PENDLETON ON DECK!!! HE’S A LEGAL HITTER!!!! LETS DO THIS 92 STYLE!!!!
Thanks, I’d forgotten about Estrada. Just trying to get a head count.
Orr, Estrada and Jordan are our bench players.
Even if Clemens does come out, he’s already hurting and on 2 days rest. I like our chances.
I just purchased a blank white jersey off of ebay! I will write the winner of every game on it so I can no longer be a loser!!!!!
Orr, Estrada and the ONE WHO SHALL NOT BE NAMED, OK PEOPLE?
The Astros have emptied their bench. Only a pitcher can PH.
Ok Chipper, get something started here. As in a home run.
Chip just mentioned the unmentionable one. Sorry.
By the way, let me step aside and applaud the Falcson for their efforts today. No Vick, and Schaub looked great…the Falcons may have the best back up QB in the NFL and a great effort without Vick. It’s not a bad loss and this team still looks on course to replay Philly in the NFC title game.
Houston has no one on the bench and no bullpen left. Clemens is the only other pitcher who could possibly appear. Ausmus is now out in the field. If we can’t score before Houston now, we deserve to lose.
Ok, we did nothing against Wheeler but if Thomson can hold them again, eventually, a tired, and hurting Rocket comes out…he will not look as crisp as guys like Wheeler, Qualls and Lidge.
Philly isn’t making it this year. We are terrible out of the gates in games. I just can’t see it this year.
I’d say, regardless of what happens next, we don’t deserve to win this game.
I almost think Houston knows now its tough to win this game with no people left and at the very least, they are trying to get us to burn everything before tomorrow night. They can lose asnd still live to play again and they know this.
The Falcons offense played great as did Matt Schaub. The defense did not play well however. The Vinateri field goals at the end of all their games is getting old.
This is one of those games where I desperately wish that I didn’t so desperately care…know what I’m saying?
I say the Astros don’t deserve to win this game more than the Braves.
Mike Clay,
How did you come to be a Braves and Eagles fan? Thats highly unusual!
kc,
The Houston asshole NEVER EVER deserve to win more then the Braves. Thats a given.
I want the Braves to win this game so Mac can keep working on that Wandy tune.
wow….scary scary out. but hes out. thank god.
I’m a Braves and a Patriots fan, Alex. Do I get to join the Incongruous Fandom Club?
I’m not sure really. I live in PA, so that explains the Eagles. As fo the braves, i just fell in love with them at a young age and have been following them ever since. But yes, it is very unusual.
And, oops, I shouldn’t have said that.
Can we just walk Ensberg for %$#”!’ sake?!
Dallas 24 Philly 3
Jenny,
There’s not a dislike between Boston & Atlanta the way there is between Philly & Atlanta…I am much less surprised.
And by the way, I generally like the Patriots also (though not like the Falcons). I think Brady is a good guy and I like Bob Kraft, the owner.
I am not worried about this walk. Thomson still looks very comfortable and very confident out there.
OK, it is officially time for theme music. I’m throwing on some Widespread Panic. Rally Braves!!
Brian
oh man, Alex, I wish you hadn’t said that, even if it’s true.
Alex R., I’m kind of the opposite of Mike Clay, but also a Braves and Eagles fan. I grew up in the southeast and lived in Philly for a few years (college and some after).
Growing up, everyone around here was a Braves fan, and I was no different, but NFL wise, it was about half Saints/half Falcons. I didn’t really have a team until I moved up north for a while. It’s really hard to not get caught up in the Eagles if you live in the Philadelphia area for any length of time.
Thomson’s going right after them. I admire that.
Let the record show that the lineup the Astros have out now is really sorry.
atlinl.a.
see…not to worry.
It’s about body language. Thomson looks very confident out there…I am feeling good for him and now really wish he was going tomorrow, if theres a tomorrow.
How many of our players that didn’t make the post-season roster got to travel with the team and sit in the dugout? I’ve seen Perez, Hampton, and Boyer that I can remember, but is it just the injured players? I can’t imagine Kolb wanting to remain with the team (though his spirit is definitely still with bullpen), but what about Davies, Hollandsworthless, etc.?
Also let the record show a new comments record of 418.
You are right Joey. No one cares about the Phillies, 76ers, Flyers really. But, if you don’t like the Eagles, you take a lot of shit. Its great. Best fans\environment in sports.
I am a Braves, Vikings, and Spurs guy. No one is more all over the place than me.
Our big guns need to quit matching groundouts with the Luke Scotts and Adam Everetts of the world. Someone needs to step the F up.
Andruw’s going deep.
I am a Braves and Portland Trail Blazers guy. That’s a coast-to-coast thing.
Aram-
I am A SPOURS FAN ALSO—REALLY? ANOTHER SPURS FAN!!!! 🙂
I hate the Rockets and obviously, hate all Houston teams.
Andruw’s walking
Braves, Spurs Georgia & Alabama for me…I like the Falcons but not as passionate abnout the NFL. I more care what the Georgia Bulldogs IN the NFL do like Champ Bailey, Richard Seymour et all.
I will cautiously allow that from a strategic standpoint we are in a much better position at this point…we’ve got a rested starter in there and most of our best hitters are still in the lineup. They’ve got a tired and hurt Clemens left to pitch, and guys I’ve never heard of in the lineup.
This is a cautious, fingers-crossed assessment, I stress…
Good eye Andruw.
Great fan environment? Didn’t Philly fans boo Santa Claus? What’s up with that?
Mike Clay, I remember going to Phillies games (when I was there, they still played at the Vet), and the stands being completely empty. When the Braves were around, the crowds were fine, but it was kind of creepy to see, say, a Phillies/Expos game and just have entire sections with only two people sitting.
Fair ball! Nice kick, Wheeler!
Yes, I also hate everything Houston. The Astros, Yao Ming, Jeff Van Gundy, Dom Capers. It’s all terrible.
Fair Ball!
wow, what an idiot move by Wheeler.
It takes a dumbass move like that to get the ball rolling…GO BRAVES GO.
WE GET A BREAK!!!!!!!!!!!!1
This would be another bunt situation, but last year Francouer bunted a ball into his face and broke his eye socket, so I don’t know about bunting here.
Bad play by Wheeler, we have got to take advantage right here, right now.
GREAT JOB FRENCHY!!!!
JUST A FLYBALL, BOYS…A FLYBALL.
I actually LIKE a bunt there.
Yea well the passion is for the Eagles.
…and yes they booed Santa Claus. It was funny. Nothing wrong with a sense of humor in a crowd 🙂
GS for Mccann?
C’mon McCann!!!!
By the way Arm, I actually have a ton of friends and family who live in Houston and have already been there 3 times this year but despite all that, I HATE THEIR SPORTS TEAMS…HATE THEM.
Great fan environment? Didn’t Philly fans boo Santa Claus? What’s up with that?
Why did that just post twice when I refreshed…I hate Macs.
A grand slam would be nice, but so would a sac fly.
I went to a Braves game in Philly in September – was the series the Braves dropped 3 of 4. I was at the 1 game Braves won. Pretty fun walking through everybody afterwards with my Braves shirt on – gotta say I was a little nervous (having heard about Philly fans)…
This is it, folks. Pete Orr on deck. Brower in the bullpen.
NOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!! They’re saying Orr’s going to hit for Thomson and Brower’s coming in!
Nooooooooooooooooooooooo
Mac hates you too? 🙂
Ok…I have made that joke before..sorry I couldnt resist.
Should we let Thomson bat regardless of how will happen? I think we should.
If McCann hits a GS maybe they’ll leave Thomson in…
why, why why why would Bobby take Thomson out?
WHY?
its not like hes pitching tomorrow so just keep thomson out there…he looks sharp!!!!
If Mccann reaches & there’s a runner on 3rd for Thomson, look for a squeeze
Plating a couple of runs guarantees that Thomson stays out there. Just need a single here.
Brower frightens me, but also, who do we have left after him? McBride? Anyone else?
Wow…McCann got away with one today.
Well, I wear my braves hat everywhere so I get glares from time to time. I wear it proudly at the Phils games too. It is acceptable for a Braves hat, it is not for Falcons\other attire. You will get booed until you cry. Its amazing.
I just realized I’m rockin’ like Leo…ha!!!
Devine.
dammit.
And now if Orr fucks up, we have no Thomson and Brower in a 6-6 tie.
this is potentially a devastating move. Leave thomson in and live to fight another day, cox.
So, basically our season comes down to Pete Orr. Shit.
And now Brower has to pitch.
Memo to Braves hitters – swing at strikes, not balls!
OK, if Orr doesn’t get a hit the season’s over.
Hell, even if he does, the season STILL might be over.
As much as I like Thomson, this is the right move.
now…we are fucked. I woiuld rather not score and have thomson out then risk it with orr and 2 outs and brower in a tie game….this could really finish us.
Now one of the crappy bullpen people come out to lose it.
Nice, Bobby. Nice.
S**t!!!! That was our chance and we kicked it away. S**t!!
All the Braves needed was a sac fly . . . .
Thomson could have gone Nanother 5 innings. Because even IF Brower is effective, eventually he has to come out for Joey Devine…we have mcbride left but thats it.
Bases loaded and one out and the Braves cant do anything…pathetic. How many chances do they think their gonna get. Their lucky the game isnt over by now.
Great. We just gave up our biggest advantage, a rested and ready-to-go Thomson. Now it’s Brower and Devine vs. Wheeler and Clemens.
I am not happy.
This is completely stupid, does Bobby realize what is our advantage is at the moment?
If I’d have pinch-hit anyone there, it would have been Estrada, then double-switched or something. As it is, season’s over.
I’d rather have McBride out there against a switch hitter and two righties than Brower. No question.
Such a poor fundamental team at times. They have had trouble all year at moving runners up, bunting and scoring runners from third base with less than 2 outs. I hope that wasn’t their last chance…..
“It’s our lot in life. We were made to suffer.” — C3PO in Star Wars
I think it could be accurately applied to Braves fans in October.
You guys can’t be seriously critcizing Cox for the PH for Thomson, can you? Come on, you have to put a real hitter up to try to get in front.
But I did forget about McBride . . . but then it seems like Bobby has too.
yes…why didnt bobby double switch? It would have garnered thomson another 2-e3 innings, MINIMUM.
One positive note:
Even Brower might be able to get out the bottom of the Astros AAA lineup.
I just got back from being gone all day. Hell of a game. I strongly disagree with bunting Francoeur, especially since it meant having to rely on McCann and Orr instead of Francoeur, Langerhans, or McCann.
Andruw should have caught the “home run,” it looks like. What a depressing game, even if somehow we come win.
Bobby had to PH for Thomson. Have you guys forgotten the time he left Hudson in vs. Philadelphia?
Kirk,
Logic in this situation dictated that either Cox double switch or take the goose egg. we needed to have Thomson out there, who was looking sharp and settled in.
I suppose Andruw was running on contact but is it possible that McCann missed a bunt sign? I know the bases are loaded but with one out and the pitcher’s spot coming up it would be an interesting, albeit gutsy, call and certainly better than pinch-hitting for Thompson.
Brian
well…good inning for Brower…could we try & win this goddamn game now…PLEASE?
IT’S TIME TO SCORE A RUN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
LET’S GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Six pitches for Brower that inning.
Hudson was at 100 pitches. Thomson had pitched two innings. Nobody ever says Bobby should take out Hudson in the third.
“Double switch”? Alex, that makes no sense. Thomson was already in the game. He came in in the ninth spot after Betemit made the last out pinch-hitting there. Bobby didn’t screw up. You have to take the shot to score.
Halftime: Eagles 3 Cowboys 27 🙁
Good work Brower.
David, Thomson was not tired. This is a completely different situation.
Clemens is warming up.
I agree that Thomson probably had plenty left in the tank, but you have to put someone who can hit up there. You have to take a chance on scoring enough insurance. Orr made contact; he didn’t whiff.
Mac,
I disagree…Thomson looked great and you leave him out there…if we hit 20 innings we will be forced now to trust Devine. Not good. thats why you leave thomson out and live to fight another inning. I feel strongly about this.
Sutcliffe, sadly, is right that Furcal is hitting like Willie Mays Hays. Thats a true statement, sadly.
If this asshole wheeler would ever come out, I think we can take a hurting and exhausted Clemens.
fucking dan wheeler.
I expect McBride will be the next man out. Twenty innings? Come on. I don’t think you can worry about what’s going to happen five innings from now.
If it comes to it, I think I would almost rather see Furcal come in to pitch and Devine go to short.
Ok, we’ve got McBride and Devine left. They’ve got a not-100% Rocket. What happens if it goes six or seven more innings or just four or five for Houston? Will we see Sosa? HoRam? Smoltz? That guy who’s name we can’t say?
I don’t get what you guys are saying. What double switch would have helped? When Thomson came in, Betemit had just made the last out PH for R. He could not have waited longer to come up to bat. You have an opportunity to take the lead, you have to go for it. Anything else is nuts.
Feel free to swing Chipper.