The Discuss Glavine's Potential Return Thread

[JCStone7]

Two days into the official offseason the Braves have already identified their main area to focus on this offseason, it's no secret what it is either. At the beginning of the year the main focus was going to be Andruw Jones. Now that Schuerholz has officially pressed the eject button on the Andruw era the focus is undoubtedly starting pitching.

Two writers for the AJC wrote about their thoughts. Mark Bradley against signing Glavine and David O'Brien for signing Glavine.

Mark Bradley's case against (http://www.ajc.com/blogs/content/shared-blogs/ajc/sportscolumns/entries/2007/10/01/glavine_is_not.html)

The Braves shouldn’t try to reassemble the glorious rotation of old. They need to build a new rotation. Smoltz and Tim Hudson are great places to begin, but the reason this team, which statistically was good enough everywhere but in starting pitching, didn’t reach October was because everything began and ended with those two.

Some Braves made the case last week for Glavine as the missing No. 3 starter. But is Glavine even a No. 3 anymore? He was 13-8 with a 4.45 ERA this season. (Chuck James, who spent the year proving he isn’t a No. 3 starter, was 11-10 with a 4.24 ERA.) The more Glavine worked, the worse he got: He didn’t win any of his last three starts, and he yielded 17 earned runs over his final 10 1/3 innings.


I bolded the part that caught my eye, especially the last sentence.

Chuck James ~ 11-10, 161.1 IP, 4.24 ERA, 11 Quality Starts
Tom Glavine ~ 13-8, 200.1 IP, 4.45, 23 Quality StartsSo in essence Glavine was used primarily as the Mets ace, which the Braves won't do. He would be the Braves #3 and his workload would not be as stressful as he wouldn't have to go against other team's aces like John Smoltz, Cole Hamels, Dontrelle Willis, etc.

And counterpoint by
David O'Brien a case for (http://www.ajc.com/braves/content/sports/braves/stories/2007/09/24/braveswoes_0925.html)

not to mention this is a fairly decent read
Jeff Schultz: Hurry Up and Sign Glavine (http://www.ajc.com/blogs/content/shared-blogs/ajc/sportscolumns/entries/2007/10/02/glavines_still.html)


Food for thought:

Glavine's last 2 starts with Atlanta (2002): 7.2 IP, 7 BB, 13 ER, 17 H, 15.26 ERA
Glavine's last 3 starts with New York: 10.1 IP, 25 H, 4 HRA, 17 ER, 25 H, 14.81 ERA
Although the back-end of the rotation struggled, the team still finished 3rd in the NL in team ERA @ 4.11 which means the bullpen held their part of the bargain.

[McCarroll21]

Here's my thought on the stat comparison. Chuck James stats didn't prove he wasn't a #3, his lack of innings proved that he shouldn't be anything more than a #5, if in a rotation at all.

Glavine doesn't ever miss a start and is essentially a lock for 200 innings. He may not be a 15 game winner anymore, but he provides stability and another pitcher that can save the bullpen and more often than not he will find a way to get the win in big games.

You also have to think that there is another guy out there on the Schuerholz Radar System that will more than likely have Glavine entering the year as our #4 pitcher should he be with the Braves.

[MPH]

Glavine's last start was only a little worse than Jake Peavey's last start, and Peavey is the favorite to win the CYA this year. It's just one game.

Glavine's 2007 season was better than Chuck James, and James was better than league-average, so to me it's a no-brainer that we should get Glavine back if we can. What is there to debate?

[Preacher]

I'm not to amped about the chance of Glavine coming back. I don't think bringing him back would be nearly as popular if he had spent most of his career with any other team besides Atlanta.


Would he give us more innings, yes; but he'll be a year older than the pitcher who crumbled down the stretch and didn't have an ERA any better than Chuck James.

[JayDonnelly10]

Here's my thought on the stat comparison. Chuck James stats didn't prove he wasn't a #3, his lack of innings proved that he shouldn't be anything more than a #5, if in a rotation at all.

Glavine doesn't ever miss a start and is essentially a lock for 200 innings. He may not be a 15 game winner anymore, but he provides stability and another pitcher that can save the bullpen and more often than not he will find a way to get the win in big games


I agree. James hurts us by only really going 5 innings each time out. The last two months I think he only had 2 starts over 5 innings


Glavine going to be in a Braves uniform next season without a doubt.....and I would like him to be our #3/#4....I really hope we go out and get a legit #3 as well

Smoltz
Hudson
#3
Glavine
James/Reyes/Hampton*

Trading James and Renteria for a Blanton, Bedard type of a pitcher would create a pretty solid rotation

[mark]

about how much would glavine cost us for one year? im assuming john would not offer glavine a multi-year contract. and doesn't glavine still have an option left on his contract with the mets or something?

[unspiritual]

about how much would glavine cost us for one year? im assuming john would not offer glavine a multi-year contract. and doesn't glavine still have an option left on his contract with the mets or something?

I think that's a player option... and I don't think he plans to pick it up... the buyout he gets from the Mets should make it easier for him to give the Braves a discount... $3 million or so ? Not sure of the exact figure....

[McCarroll21]

He will receive a $3 million buyout from the Mets. I believe that $3 million will help the Braves in negotiations but won't really make as much of an impact as we'd like. I'd say $6 to $6.5 million for one season of Tom Glavine sounds about right. That's considering his option is worth $9 million if he goes back to New York. $3 million from his buyout plus $6 million from the Braves would equal that but it may take a little more so add in the next $0.5 million.

[JCStone7]

I opened this thread for the debate factor as we already have ones for a Glavine return and those against a Glavine return

[HaRdCoReBrAvEsFaN]

IF we can get a #3 for Renteria and a prospect we don't even need Glavine to be a #3 just a #4....he might start the 3rd game of the season, but that don't mean he's expected to be the 3rd best starter....

MY Rotation for 08:

Smoltz
Hudson
Glavine
RH #3 Type Starter(Renteria Trade)
Hampton/Reyes/James

[lilsnatch07]

ESPN.COM's insider is reporting that Washington might be looking to sign Glavine for a year long contract because they have a new park and a young rotation which he could help take under his wing.

The only problem I have with that is I doubt Glavine wants to go from a younger rotation to an even younger rotation. I'm sure he doesn't want to spend some of his last years playing with a craptastic team like Washington.

I think he'll eventually sign with Atlanta but I'm going to mix it up a tad and throw out this crazy roatation for 2008:

1. Tim Hudson
2. John Smoltz
3. Tom Glavine
4. Mike Hampton
5. Chuck James / Jo-Jo Reyes

- We keep Edgar Renteria to bolster our offense even more, especially after losing Jones. I know we have Teix and he may re-sign too but Renteria makes it a pretty potent offense.

*Had to change things up a little bit because everyone is going to the same route here*

[McCarroll21]

Tom Glavine is going to finish out his career with the Braves and his best friend. There shouldn't even be a debate about it. Whether you are in the camp of wanting to sign him or not, you should know that he will be signed. It's kind of like Andruw Jones situation. Whether you hoped the Braves signed him or not, you knew he was going to walk.

There can be a debate about if it's helpful or harmful, but there shouldn't be a debate about if it WILL happen.

Don't turn this into an Edgar Renteria debate, too. This is a Glavine thread, nothing more, nothing less.

[MPH]

*Had to change things up a little bit because everyone is going to the same route here*
Not everone.

[JCStone7]

Glavine to Decline (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/baseball/mlb/10/02/glavine.future/index.html)

"I have five days at the end of our season to accept or decline [the option]," Glavine said from his Alpharetta, Ga., home. "Most likely, I'll decline it."

[McCarroll21]

Step one is complete.

[HaRdCoReBrAvEsFaN]

I just hope it's done with quickly...Before the 1st week of FA is complete hopefully

[HaRdCoReBrAvEsFaN]

and ya I agree that he's def going to ATL without a doubt MC...only way he doesn't is the slim chance he goes out like he did...which I highly doubt...If He wanted to be a Met next yr he would be dumb to decline $13 Mill when there's no way the Mets will offer that much now...

[vnodnarb]

Glavine - 23 quality starts
James - 11 quality starts

Glavine would be a very good #4 I have no doubt. Also, like Mc said JS is most likely going to trade for a 2-3 type guy. Also, if Reyes is needed to pull off that trade I have no problem going into next season with James as our 5th and Hampton waiting in the wings.

[MPH]

If we can get Glavine we should get him. Period, end of story. Next year's rotation could be:
Hudson
Smoltz
New Guy
Glavine
James/Reyes/Hampton

If the new guy is Santana that would change things a bit, but the truth is there are not many better than Smoltz and Hudson.

Glavine did a great job for the stinkin' Mutts in 2007, but we shouldn't bet the farm on a repeat performance next year.

James did not do as well as expected this year, and if he starts next season as he ended 2007, I hope he will be replaced quickly by Jo-Jo.

If Hampton turns out to be the Hampton he was before then he will move up in the rotation for sure. Unlikely though.

[BGarrett7]

We should censor the word "Hampton" around here...

[MPH]

We should censor the word "Hampton" around here...
It's unlikely he will make any measurable contribution to the team next year, but he's mostly a bionic man by now and a strong comeback by him would be pretty cool.

[McCarroll21]

When used as someone to count on, I understand. I'm still in the camp of coming to Spring Training with the thought that Hampton has to earn a spot in the rotation.

If we build the rotation with the idea that Hampton, Reyes, James (if still here), and whoever else comes to camp are fighting for the fifth spot, we'll be fine.

If we come to camp like we did in 2007 and think that Hampton will be our #3 guy, we're in trouble.

[MPH]

If we come to camp like we did in 2007 and think that Hampton will be our #3 guy, we're in trouble.
That was our problem this year. We expected Hampton to play and when he didn't we had to scramble for Redman to replace him. When that didn't work we were stuck with 3rd place.

[MSU Bulldog]

We should censor the word "Hampton" around here...

Maybe his name should be used as a verb.

Damn, that dude really got Hamptoned, he's gonna be out for a while!

Much in the same as SEC coach's getting Croomed.

[MPH]

Maybe his name should be used as a verb.

Damn, that dude really got Hamptoned, he's gonna be out for a while!

Much in the same as SEC coach's getting Croomed.
Early in this season, the term "Redmanned" meant a pitcher who gave up every lead he got.

[McCarroll21]

Early in this season, the term "Redamanned" meant a pitcher who gave up every lead he got.
Then it turned into a James... :D

[C-Dawg]

Maybe his name should be used as a verb.

Damn, that dude really got Hamptoned, he's gonna be out for a while!

Much in the same as SEC coach's getting Croomed.

I prefer to use it as a noun, as in: "Damn, dude, I just took a huge Hampton/Redman...it almost wouldn't flush!"

[MSU Bulldog]

Damn, he Chucked one up again!

[MSU Bulldog]

I prefer to use it as a noun, as in: "Damn, dude, I just took a huge Hampton/Redman...it almost wouldn't flush!"

Good gawd! I can barely type! Someone's probably gonna come in my office to check on me! :lol:

[MPH]

Then it turned into a James... :D
Yeah - we should have been a little more creative, put in some double meanings and stuff, and said, "Uh oh, that pitcher got Ho-Rammed!"

[McCarroll21]

:D Okay, okay... so we've had plenty of shitty left handed pitchers that need crap named after them, but back to the one that won a World Series for us...

Come back home! :D

[JayDonnelly10]

From rotoworld.com


Tom Glavine said he'll "most likely" decline his $9 million player option to stay with the Mets for next season.

"I have five days at the end of our season to accept or decline [the option]," Glavine said. "Most likely, I'll decline it." He added that a decision on his future as a player is still a month away. It sounds like he'll be very interested should the Braves make him a legitimate offer. "Atlanta is home," Glavine said. "The hardest thing for me in New York is playing and being away from home. I've played in New York for five years now. If you break it down [in days, weeks and months], I've been away from my home for four years now. I'm at the point where my wife and kids [ages 13, 12, 8 and 6] are making sacrifices for me."



Hes coming back!

[JCStone7]

Glavine to Decline (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/baseball/mlb/10/02/glavine.future/index.html)

"I have five days at the end of our season to accept or decline [the option]," Glavine said from his Alpharetta, Ga., home. "Most likely, I'll decline it."

From rotoworld.com




Hes coming back!

We know

[vnodnarb]

So he has until Friday to decline the option or is it 5 days after the W.S.?

[McCarroll21]

From the sound of it, it's Friday. It makes some sense too if you think about it. I bet the Mets put that clause in so they wouldn't have to go through what they did last year and not know until Winter Meetings.

[MSU Bulldog]

From the sound of it, it's Friday. It makes some sense too if you think about it. I bet the Mets put that clause in so they wouldn't have to go through what they did last year and not know until Winter Meetings.

That's also very good for the Braves. They can go to the winter meetings focused on what they need with who they have, not who they might have.

[McCarroll21]

So, because I can, I'm going to look into some of the quotes from the link posted earlier in this thread (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/baseball/mlb/10/02/glavine.future/index.html)."I still enjoy pitching," Glavine said. "I enjoy that day when I go out there trying to execute a game plan. I still enjoy that, and that's not going to go away anytime soon. But does that enjoyment outweigh my, well, not dislike, but my lack of enjoyment the other four days a week when I'm away from home?"So, you don't like living in New York? Well, just move back home and then you can be at home for those other four days."Atlanta is home," Glavine said. "The hardest thing for me in New York is playing and being away from home. I've played in New York for five years now. If you break it down [in days, weeks and months], I've been away from my home for four years now. I'm at the point where my wife and kids [ages 13, 12, 8 and 6] are making sacrifices for me."Oh, back to what I just said... just come home and everything will work out, Tommy.Last Sunday, most likely Glavine's last as a Met, Christine Glavine was emotional when she finally saw her husband after the game. "The kids were [relatively] OK with it," Glavine said. "They were sad that I lost, but said, 'Hey, Dad, you coming home now?'"To which he replied: "Yes, daddy's coming home. Are you ready to break out the Braves clothes again?""As a good friend of mine told me, you can always walk away from the game and say, 'I don't want to do this anymore,'" Glavine said. "But you can't walk away and then go back. Some people have done that, but I won't. Once I decide I'm done, I'm done."Yeah, Roger, that's to you.

[C-Dawg]

I wonder if he'd bring Jesus....I mean Rick Peterson along with him? If so, then I'm all for it. Hell, I'm all for it either way :D

[PeytonAllen]

He's been in New York five years? Wow. Time flies.

Be shocked if he's not back. After losing Andruw it'd be a boost to the clubhouse. But Tom Glavine in no way will be the savior of this rotation. He's a 4th or 5th guy.

You can't count on Hampton. If he's able to pitch, fine. Great. Chuck James is done in Atlanta. The Braves like Reyes (who had quality final starts to his season) but he could be dealt in trade. I think Glavine coming back would be a great story, but also it would add some stability to the back end of the rotation.

JS still has to go out and get a big-time ace if we're going to be a better club than last year. That means Edgar/Escobar/ and/or Reyes will be gone. Maybe any combo of the three.

Glavine if it happens would be positive.

Why is Wes Helms in playoff baseball but we aren't?

[Scalpel19]

By Thanksgiving Day, Tom Glavine will be a Brave and the #4 guy in the rotation.

[mark]

Why is Wes Helms in playoff baseball but we aren't?


hahaha, well said. i was just thinking the same thing

[Chris_Moderato]

I always thought getting "chucked" involved a lighter, rolling papers, and a parked car.

[FrancoeurFan7]

Keep Glavine out of here. Its the Glavine of 2007 not the Glavine of 1998.

He won't perform the same and is getting older quickly, not younger. We can find someone younger and cheaper that will perform the same.

[braveslover02]

IF we can get a #3 for Renteria and a prospect we don't even need Glavine to be a #3 just a #4....he might start the 3rd game of the season, but that don't mean he's expected to be the 3rd best starter....

MY Rotation for 08:

Smoltz
Hudson
Glavine
RH #3 Type Starter(Renteria Trade)
Hampton/Reyes/James



I'm not so sure rent will be traded ,but i think james will be gone in a pkg for a starter,with whom,and for whom I have no guess. Hampton if healthy will be in the rotation,he is owed to much to not be. He doesn't have to make the team in ST,he is one of the starters just like Smoltz or Huddy,and if healthy will be the number 3 or 4 starter. If the Braves bring Glavine back the rotation may look like this
Smoltz
Huddy
new guy from trade
Glavine
Hampton
Or this
Smoltz
Hampton (if healthy,he's good,an easy # 2)
Huddy
Glavine
New guy
If healthy Hampton will give you 15 /18 wins easy,and Glavine is still good for 14 to 16,that will get us where we want to be next yr. With just John and Huddy we made up a lot of ground this yr from last yr.

[McCarroll21]

Keep Glavine out of here. Its the Glavine of 2007 not the Glavine of 1998.It's actually Glavine of 2008 and he's much better than any other candidates we could run out there in the 4/5 slots in the rotation.

It's the fans like you that will make his return unsuccessful. It's the fan like you that are going to see Tom Glavine and #47 and get mad when he isn't the Tom Glavine of old. It's the logical fans that realize that he's not the Tom Glavine of old and understand what he does bring to the rotation are the ones that are hoping he comes back because we get that.

I'm not so sure rent will be tradedDon't be so sure. Keeping Edgar and Yunel would be stupid.

If healthy Hampton will give you 15 /18 wins easyLet's count the question marks here...
If healthy... that's a big enough question mark in itself. He hasn't pitched in a major league game since August of 2005 ... 2005! Just so you know, we're heading into 2008.
Smoltz had 14 wins, Hudson had 16, and you're calling for 18 out of Hampton? Wow.

[GrandMasterB]

If healthy Hampton will give you 15 /18 wins easy,and Glavine is still good for 14 to 16,that will get us where we want to be next yr. With just John and Huddy we made up a lot of ground this yr from last yr.

Big IF on Hampton being healthy. He hasn't pitched 200 innings since 2001, and hasn't won 15 games since 2000.

[KB 34]

If Hampton is healthy, the same old line. When was the last time he pitched again? Counting on him for the second straight year would be an extremely bad idea as we saw this past season.

[FrancoeurFan7]

I still stand as to that I say he isn't the Glavine of 1998 but of 2008, or as I said 07 but also if he came back and didn't perform very well, alot of people will look at him differently than what they would have had he not came back.

[braveslover02]

It's actually Glavine of 2008 and he's much better than any other candidates we could run out there in the 4/5 slots in the rotation.

It's the fans like you that will make his return unsuccessful. It's the fan like you that are going to see Tom Glavine and #47 and get mad when he isn't the Tom Glavine of old. It's the logical fans that realize that he's not the Tom Glavine of old and understand what he does bring to the rotation are the ones that are hoping he comes back because we get that.

Don't be so sure. Keeping Edgar and Yunel would be stupid.

Let's count the question marks here...

If healthy... that's a big enough question mark in itself. He hasn't pitched in a major league game since August of 2005 ... 2005! Just so you know, we're heading into 2008.
Smoltz had 14 wins, Hudson had 16, and you're calling for 18 out of Hampton? Wow.


Hampton is still in his early thirties,he's not 41 yrs old,and Both John and Huddy would have had more wins if not for Wickman. They said just teh other day John could have had 20 wins and Huddy 19 if not for blown saves. Yes hampton is still a young man ,34 I think,and was an ace at one time. If healthy he can win quite a few ball games. He's kept up his routine ,and I'm sure he remembers how to pitch. he says he is finally healthy and his arm is very strong. last yr he would always say something didn't feel right,he was honest then,and I'm sure he is being honest now.

[Rick]

Hampton is throwing already and says he will pitch winter ball . Evidently tendon repair needs less recovery time than ligament repair . Though you still should not count on him , the Braves should have a much better idea of Hampton's chances next spring than they did last spring .

[KB 34]

Hampton was supposed to be ready to pitch last September if Time Warner wasn't so cheap if I recall correctly. I really won't buy into any talk of Hampton being healthy and ready to pitch 30 starts until he finishes start 27.

[braveslover02]

Yeah, hampton said he will be ready by ST to start the season,and ST will just be something he has to do before the season starts to stay loose.

[BGarrett7]

They said just teh other day John could have had 20 wins and Huddy 19 if not for blown saves. Individual pitchers won-loss records are an absolutely useless stat.

But to humor you...

Huddy was 16-10 on the season. Of the eight no decisions he had, the Braves lost two of them. Those two were the debacles in Florida and Minnesota -- the one against the Marlins being just as much his fault as Wickman's. That's also not counting what happened in San Fran with the situation very similar to the one against Florida. But if we're gonna talk about the bullpen blowing games for him, what about the two games (5/10 vs. San Diego and 6/30 at Florida) where the offense took the lead when Huddy was destined for a no decision?

The Braves were 18-14 in Smoltzie's starts, 4-6 when he got a no decision. In every single loss that John took, the Braves were already trailing when he exited the game, so he didn't have any Marlins/Twins incidents like Huddy. And in only one of John's no decisions was the team actually leading when John departed -- 8/8 at New York, when John allowed the baserunners which would come around tie the game.

So, yeah...

[JCStone7]

Hampton is still in his early thirties,he's not 41 yrs old

You're right Hampton is young, but his arm is 105 and senile

[JCStone7]

A great article by DOB

Glavine (http://www.ajc.com/blogs/content/shared-blogs/ajc/braves/entries/2007/10/05/braves_glavine.html?cxntfid=blogs_braves)

[tigerfan]

A great article by DOB

Glavine (http://www.ajc.com/blogs/content/shared-blogs/ajc/braves/entries/2007/10/05/braves_glavine.html?cxntfid=blogs_braves)

Would Oakland really want to give up one of two great young pitchers with relatively cheap contracts because they are tight-budgeted? I dont know but it was a good read.

[JCStone7]

Would Oakland really want to give up one of two great young pitchers with relatively cheap contracts because they are tight-budgeted? I dont know but it was a good read.

That's how Beane runs the ship, he's constantly trading away young pitchers for even younger prospects due to a tight payroll. He makes his living off using young pitchers while they are under club control and usually trading them away before arbitration.

[dogmanx23]

dude!!!! Smoltz, Hudson, Glavine, Haren, Hampton would be insane!!!!!

[BGarrett7]

Would Oakland really want to give up one of two great young pitchers with relatively cheap contracts because they are tight-budgeted? I dont know but it was a good read.Exactly as Stoney said, that's how Beane rolls. He takes these budding pitching prospects, establishes them as front-line pitchers, and then deals them away for younger talent before their big payday comes. Just because they are cheap now doesn't mean they will be once arbitration or walk years roll around.

[JayDonnelly10]

dude!!!! Smoltz, Hudson, Glavine, Haren, Hampton would be insane!!!!!


Is Haren really available...or is this just speculation?

[Nasadega]

dude!!!! Smoltz, Hudson, Glavine, Haren, Hampton would be insane!!!!!

Well even Smoltz, Hudson, Glavine, James and #5 would be better than what we had to start last season.

[McCarroll21]

Is Haren really available...or is this just speculation?
With Beane and the A's, it truly is the old adage, "everyone is available for the right price."

I could see Chuck and a prospect (maybe Lillibridge) for Haren or Blanton happening.

Also, I want to say that DOB is stealing my thunder. :D

[Preacher]

With Beane and the A's, it truly is the old adage, "everyone is available for the right price."

I could see Chuck and a prospect (maybe Lillibridge) for Haren or Blanton happening.

Also, I want to say that DOB is stealing my thunder. :D

The price of pitching has gone up, it'd take much more (IMO) than Lillibridge and Chuck to bring Haren to Atlanta. We're talking about a guy that threw over 200 innings and had an ERA right around 3; too lazy to look up the exact number.

[McCarroll21]

http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerpages/player_main.aspx?sport=MLB&hl=225226&id=1488
Tom Glavine declined his $13 million player option to remain with the Mets in 2008.
Glavine gets $3 million automatically, so it was a $10 million decision for him. "Tom has not had enough time to sufficiently think things through with his family and did not want to make a decision until he the opportunity with them to reflect on his future in baseball as well as his future with the Mets," said agent Gregg Clifton. Glavine indicated that he's a month away from making a decision on his future.Nothing we didn't already know was going to happen, but just that he has officially declined it in print.

[JCStone7]

Everything is going to plan!

http://i206.photobucket.com/albums/bb145/jcstone07/Randoms/ani11.gif EXCELLENT

[BeastinBraves10]

well i'd be surprised if he retires. it looks like he still has his stuff. i just hope he doesn't pull a roger clemens on us.

[dogmanx23]

well i'd be surprised if he retires. it looks like he still has his stuff. i just hope he doesn't pull a roger clemens on us.

glavine has class unlike clemens soo that wont happen..

[BGarrett7]

glavine has class unlike clemens soo that wont happen..He's the NL Player Rep, that's about as classless as it comes... ;)

[McCarroll21]

well i'd be surprised if he retires. it looks like he still has his stuff. i just hope he doesn't pull a roger clemens on us.Check out the last couple of lines in this post (http://www.braves-nation.com/forums/showthread.php?p=141567#post141567).

[TheMatrix31]

He's the NL Player Rep, that's about as classless as it comes... ;)

Pretty much.

[Corvette]

well i'd be surprised if he retires. it looks like he still has his stuff. i just hope he doesn't pull a roger clemens on us.
why would tom do that, so he can sit at home? He can bring the family to the ballpark everday.

[JCStone7]

John Smoltz was on MLB on Deck on TBS talking about Glavine's potential return which he sounded emphatic that he will come back. He already has said that but it's just cool to actually see him say it.

[gobravez]

John Smoltz was on MLB on Deck on TBS talking about Glavine's potential return which he sounded emphatic that he will come back. He already has said that but it's just cool to actually see him say it.

I saw that too.

here is what Everyone's hero, mark browman, has to say about it.

http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071008&content_id=2257025&vkey=news_atl&fext=.jsp&c_id=atl

[McCarroll21]

I saw that too.

here is what Everyone's hero, mark browman, has to say about it.

http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071008&content_id=2257025&vkey=news_atl&fext=.jsp&c_id=atlScrew Mark Bowman, here's (http://www.braves-nation.com/forums/showthread.php?t=7069) what The Godfather has to say about it.

[JCStone7]

Screw Mark Bowman, here's (http://www.braves-nation.com/forums/showthread.php?t=7069) what The Godfather has to say about it.

You're welcome for the nickname :thumbsup:

So Godfather let's make him an offer he can't refuse

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u245/airmaxedout/0102036828800.jpg

[MPH]

... i just hope he doesn't pull a roger clemens on us.
LOL - do you think JS would put up with that crap?

[gobravez]

http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071005&content_id=2252810&vkey=news_was&fext=.jsp&c_id=was&partnered=rss_was


Glavine to Nats?!?!? ROFL!!!!!

[JCStone7]

http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071005&content_id=2252810&vkey=news_was&fext=.jsp&c_id=was&partnered=rss_was


Glavine to Nats?!?!? ROFL!!!!!

I figured someone would say it. The whole ties to Stan Kasten and Manny Acta. Case in point Tom wants to be close to home and play for a contender.

[McCarroll21]

If you haven't noticed, the Nationals Brass has tried to link anything they can to the past ties with Kasten.

Whether these people believe it or not, they'll print it. Why? Because the Nationals are headed to a new ballpark and anything they can do to pump optimism into the team while they venture into the next step of establishing a franchise, they'll do it.

[JCStone7]

If you haven't noticed, the Nationals Brass has tried to link anything they can to the past ties with Kasten.

Whether these people believe it or not, they'll print it. Why? Because the Nationals are headed to a new ballpark and anything they can do to pump optimism into the team while they venture into the next step of establishing a franchise, they'll do it.

To add to this point, anyone read the Andruw to Washington rumors? Enough said

[McCarroll21]

Yupp. Glavine will be in Atlanta next year. Will he be a full-time father or wearing #47 on his back? That's the only question left unanswered at this point.

[JCStone7]

Maybe Kasten should go after Steve Avery and Pete Smith as well

[Tex4Prez]

it would be great to see Glavine come back especially for those series aganist the mets.:p

[MPH]

Can't wait to see Glavine's first start at Shea after he returns to the Braves.

[Hobbes]

Can't wait to see Glavine's first start at Shea after he returns to the Braves.
Assuming he's a Brave, the boos will be deafening.

[dogmanx23]

glavine never should have left ill be very happy to see him retire a brave :)

[BGarrett7]

Assuming he's a Brave, the boos will be deafening.They likely will be regardless of what uniform he is wearing. The majority of Mets fans are too damn stupid to realize their collapse wasn't based entirely around him crapping the bed on the last day of the season.

[Hobbes]

They likely will be regardless of what uniform he is wearing. The majority of Mets fans are too damn stupid to realize their collapse wasn't based entirely around him crapping the bed on the last day of the season.
Yeah, I was kind of making two separate points in response to MPH's post about him returning to Shea as a Brave. The boos will be deafening regardless. The dumb Muts fans won't remember that he was crucial to their first-place status to begin with, and instead will always view him as the cause of their collapse.

Much like A-Rod is ripped for his postseason woes, even after turning in a season of historic proportions that enabled the Yankees to get to the postseason.

[McCarroll21]

So, who wants the update that I have? :D

[MPH]

So, who wants the update that I have?
Hmm - a trick question. Umm ... everybody?

[Tictac]

So, who wants the update that I have? :D
See post above. :beer:

[McCarroll21]

Hmm - a trick question. Umm ... everybody?
LOL! Well, I've been told by a person, who has a person, that he is as good as signed. Just waiting on the day that he is eligible. I know it's not credible, I typically don't put much into anything I just "hear" over the internet unless they have a history of being correct, but I want to get what I've heard out there and let it be known to take it with a grain of salt.

I am told that someone on the inside that Tom Glavine is waiting on the day to sign and he wants to finish his career in Atlanta.

Remember to take this with a grain of salt, as it is an internet rumor. Just be ready to welcome Tom Glavine back into the Braves family about two weeks after the World Series ends.

[JCStone7]

Damn you and your hearsay Mc. On the other hand w00t we have a :deal:

[McCarroll21]

Okay, time to let the cat out of the bag...

I feel very confident in saying that I can confirm the previous rumor that Glavine is as good as signed. I have heard it from another source and gotten a "from what I've heard, that's completely possible," from another.

As with any rumor, it's not official until his name is on the dotted line, but I can say with complete confidence that Tom Glavine will be a Brave shortly after the 15 day window after the last game of the World Series runs up. From what I've heard, Glavine is already willing to accept a deal in the $7-8 million price range.

It's not an offer, but it's what he's let on that he would be willing to accept and what he wants to finish his career.

I will, of course, let you know if I hear anything different. I don't want to make you believe something that is entirely false so if I receive word that this is false I will let you know immediately. Understand that I wouldn't post this if it hadn't been cross-checked multiple times.

[HaRdCoReBrAvEsFaN]

sounds good to me...I've got 1 yr 6.5 Mill stuck in my head

[JayDonnelly10]

sounds good to me...I've got 1 yr 6.5 Mill stuck in my head

7 or 8 million, I dont think it'll be any less than 7 million

[ifthenwouldi]

I wonder if this means the rotation is set, or if the Braves plan on adding one more starter.

[HaRdCoReBrAvEsFaN]

They'll add one more...The know Hampton can't be trusted to make even 20 starts till he actually makes those 20 starts....You can also add the fact that Bobby was growing more and more frustrated with Chucky every start he made, and Reyes is a rookie who can't be counted on to be anything more than an avg #5 till he establishes himself in the bigs...Also while Glavine will start the 3rd game of the season more than likely because one of the 3 LH's I mentioned will be the #5 starter, they know that Glavine is more of a #4 starter for the team then a top of the rotation guy...

[gobravez]

I wonder if this means the rotation is set, or if the Braves plan on adding one more starter.

Oh, Im pretty positive they will add one more...

Renteria and Chuck
For
Number 3 greatness

---

so anyway.... time for a rockies sweep. Sooner the WS ends the better. :)

[Rafiki]

Oh, Im pretty positive they will add one more...

Renteria and Chuck
For
Number 3 greatness

---

so anyway.... time for a rockies sweep. Sooner the WS ends the better. :)

I sure hope they include Chuck in a trade if Glavine's coming back. The thought of Glavine and James in the same rotation isn't very comforting.

[HaRdCoReBrAvEsFaN]

i'd like to have James stick around to learn from Glavine...

[Rafiki]

i'd like to have James stick around to learn from Glavine...

Me too - as long as they're not both in the starting rotation.
:D

[gobravez]

I sure hope they include Chuck in a trade if Glavine's coming back. The thought of Glavine and James in the same rotation isn't very comforting.


the thought of having 4 inning, 2 pitch Chuck in the rotation isnt very comforting period.

[at65]

i'd like to have James stick around to learn from Glavine...

I agree. A lot of people on this board have a real beef with Chuck, but I'd sure like to keep him around, even more so if we land Glavine. I'm under the belief that if we trade him now, we'd be selling low on him.

[gobravez]

I agree. A lot of people on this board have a real beef with Chuck, but I'd sure like to keep him around, even more so if we land Glavine. If Tommy could teach Chuck how to use his full body in his delivery instead of basically just his arm, then we'd have a great middle of the rotation guy on our hands. I'm under the belief that if we trade him now, we'd be selling low on him.


I wouldn't mind having chuck in the rotation as a number 5 next year, but I just feel that he will be part of a trade that gets us our number 3 pitcher.

[JCStone7]

Hopefully all of your questions about Chuck will be answered tomorrow in my Chuck article :thumbsup:

[HaRdCoReBrAvEsFaN]

IF Glavine could help Moss pitch 174 Innings in 29 starts(6 IP/GS) 136 Hits allowed and get 12 wins with a 3.42 ERA then I think he could do something with James who has more talent and not to mention better stuff than Moss had..

[hillanbottom]

i was having a baseball craving today and this definately just made it WORSE!
very exciting things to think about.

[vnodnarb]

the thought of having 4 inning, 2 pitch Chuck in the rotation isnt very comforting period.

I stand by my idea that we should keep him as our long man headed into next year.

[HaRdCoReBrAvEsFaN]

I think the idea of planning on Hampton being a dependable starter is much more acceptable if we have Glavine and a 2nd proven guy added to the rotation and Chuck James as the backup option compared to Mark Redman....

[braveslover02]

IF we can get a #3 for Renteria and a prospect we don't even need Glavine to be a #3 just a #4....he might start the 3rd game of the season, but that don't mean he's expected to be the 3rd best starter....

MY Rotation for 08:

Smoltz
Hudson
Glavine
RH #3 Type Starter(Renteria Trade)
Hampton/Reyes/James


I think it will be more like this
Smoltz
Huddy
#2 starter
Glavine
Hampton if healthy,and if what I have heard is true,he is.But I think if Glavine does come home ,Bobby will seperate the lefties.
More like this
Smoltz
Hampton
Huddy
new guy
Glavine, I just feel they will want JO JO to get better,and James to learn another pitch,and Bennett to get one more yr under his belt. If hampton is healthy he plays,he has a contract,and Glavine want be brought back to go to the pen.so you can go a head and pencil in the 1st 4,
Smoltz
Huddy
Hampton
Glavine, It want be in this order,but that will be 4 of our starters. The only ? in my book is who will be #5,and how much will Tommy take to come home.James or JOJO may even go in a trade for a #2 or 3 starter.:nod:

[HaRdCoReBrAvEsFaN]

Bobby will seperate the LH's, but there is no way that Anyone with a # other than 29 or 15 starts Game's 1 and 2 if those guys are healthy...and Hampton will def start the 5th game of the season at the earliest...

[braveslover02]

Another thing,Hampton and Tommy will come off the books in 2009,so all that money can go to signing a big name pitcher or two.All we need to do right now is upgrade the pitching for a year,until all those big name guys become free agents.

[unspiritual]

I stand by my idea that we should keep him as our long man headed into next year.

You mean long-ball man.

[JayDonnelly10]

You mean long-ball man.

Thats kinda funny!

[MSU Bulldog]

So, we will potentially have 4 LHSP's.

[vnodnarb]

So, we will potentially have 4 LHSP's.

Smoltz and Hudson are right handed, so not unless one of them gets hurt.

[MSU Bulldog]

So, we will potentially have 4 LHSP's.

Smoltz and Hudson are right handed, so not unless one of them gets hurt.

I don't expect to have three. But the fact remains. (see above)

[HaRdCoReBrAvEsFaN]

Smoltz and Hudson are right handed, so not unless one of them gets hurt.

I don't think he meant in the rotation, just available to throw out there if needed...

[ifthenwouldi]

While I'm well aware of what *fans* on this site would like to see (a trade for a more reliable #3 starter), I'm not going to be surprised if the *Braves* sign Glavine and call it a day for the rotation.

I hope not, but I wouldn't be surprised.

[McCarroll21]

It wouldn't totally shock me, but another option would be something like this:

Sign Tom Glavine - One year, $7.5 million
Sign Carlos Silva - Apparently wants four years; won't get into money possibilities
Use Lillibridge or Schafer in CFOnly problem with that is we still have a logjam at 2B/SS. In that scenario, possibly unload Renteria to the Cardinals and get the better Rasmus brother (http://www.baseball-reference.com/minors/players.cgi?pid=11899) and a good pitcher or two (Garcia (http://www.baseball-reference.com/minors/players.cgi?pid=30905), Perez (http://www.baseball-reference.com/minors/players.cgi?pid=30956), Hawksworth (http://minors.baseball-reference.com/players.cgi?pid=21633)).

[JayDonnelly10]

Sign Carlos Silva - Apparently wants four years; won't get into money possibilities

mlbtraderumors.com has us interested in Silva since we were looking into trading for him before the trade deadline.....

However, Silva wants a four-year contract. Rightfully so. Last year Kei Igawa, Daisuke Matsuzaka, Ted Lilly, Gil Meche, and Jeff Suppan received four years or more. We can toss out the unique situations of Igawa and Dice-K, leaving Lilly, Meche, and Suppan as Silva's comparables. Silva is younger than any of them and his fine 2007 sets the bar at four years, $40MM. Stretching that to $42-44MM would not be ridiculous. Silva shouldn't be compared to the three-year group given his age, effectiveness, and health.

[Tex4Prez]

would be nice to have silva and glavine but i still have faith in james also if we can sign Glavine then maybe he can take james under his wing and get his mechanics straight and also teach him his third pitch he needs. Just a thought.

[JCStone7]

Silva is alright but I think he should the last ditch effort if we fail to acquire a #3 via trade

[HaRdCoReBrAvEsFaN]

agreed...lets go for the proven track record first...or someone with the better talent at least...

[SCchief]

I really don't care who we sign, as long as it is a number 2 or better, and kinda young, because our minor league pitchers don't look like they are even close to the bigs yet

[Nasadega]

Silva is alright but I think he should the last ditch effort if we fail to acquire a #3 via trade

Given the crap we've lived with recently, I'll gladly take Silva in our rotation :nod:

[MPH]

Silva is alright but I think he should the last ditch effort if we fail to acquire a #3 via trade
Silva had a good year this year, but is he really worth a $40 million commitment? <TABLE style="WIDTH: 332pt; BORDER-COLLAPSE: collapse" cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width=441 border=0 x:str><COLGROUP><COL style="WIDTH: 65pt; mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 3145" width=86><COL style="WIDTH: 16pt; mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 768" width=21><COL style="WIDTH: 20pt; mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 950" width=26><COL style="WIDTH: 29pt; mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1426" width=39><COL style="WIDTH: 24pt; mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1170" span=6 width=32><COL style="WIDTH: 25pt; mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1206" width=33><COL style="WIDTH: 33pt; mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1609" width=44><TBODY><TR style="HEIGHT: 25.5pt" height=34><TD class=xl25 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; WIDTH: 65pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; HEIGHT: 25.5pt; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=86 height=34>Player (http://www.baseballprospectus.com/team_audit.php?team=MIN&pitcher_sort=Player)</TD><TD class=xl25 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 16pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=21>G (http://www.baseballprospectus.com/team_audit.php?team=MIN&pitcher_sort=G)</TD><TD class=xl25 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 20pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=26>GS (http://www.baseballprospectus.com/team_audit.php?team=MIN&pitcher_sort=GS)</TD><TD class=xl25 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 29pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=39>IP (http://www.baseballprospectus.com/team_audit.php?team=MIN&pitcher_sort=IP)</TD><TD class=xl25 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 24pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=32>H9 (http://www.baseballprospectus.com/team_audit.php?team=MIN&pitcher_sort=H9)</TD><TD class=xl25 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 24pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=32>BB9 (http://www.baseballprospectus.com/team_audit.php?team=MIN&pitcher_sort=BB9)</TD><TD class=xl25 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 24pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=32>SO9 (http://www.baseballprospectus.com/team_audit.php?team=MIN&pitcher_sort=SO9)</TD><TD class=xl25 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 24pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=32>HR9 (http://www.baseballprospectus.com/team_audit.php?team=MIN&pitcher_sort=HR9)</TD><TD class=xl25 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 24pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=32>ERA (http://www.baseballprospectus.com/team_audit.php?team=MIN&pitcher_sort=ERA)</TD><TD class=xl25 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 24pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=32>RA (http://www.baseballprospectus.com/team_audit.php?team=MIN&pitcher_sort=RA)</TD><TD class=xl25 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 25pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=33>RA+ (http://www.baseballprospectus.com/team_audit.php?team=MIN&pitcher_sort=RA_PLUS)</TD><TD class=xl25 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 33pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=44>VORP (http://www.baseballprospectus.com/team_audit.php?team=MIN&pitcher_sort=VORP)</TD></TR><TR style="HEIGHT: 12.75pt" height=17><TD class=xl25 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; WIDTH: 65pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; HEIGHT: 12.75pt; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=86 height=17>Chuck James (http://www.baseballprospectus.com/player_search.php?search_name=Chuck%20James)</TD><TD class=xl24 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 16pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=21 x:num>30</TD><TD class=xl24 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 20pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=26 x:num>30</TD><TD class=xl24 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 29pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=39 x:num="161.3">161</TD><TD class=xl26 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 24pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=32 x:num="9.15">9.2</TD><TD class=xl27 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 24pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=32 x:num>3.24</TD><TD class=xl27 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 24pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=32 x:num>6.47</TD><TD class=xl24 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 24pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=32 x:num="1.79">1.8</TD><TD class=xl27 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 24pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=32 x:num>4.24</TD><TD class=xl27 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 24pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=32 x:num>4.30</TD><TD class=xl27 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 25pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=33 x:num>1.11</TD><TD class=xl24 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 33pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=44 x:num>28.7</TD></TR><TR style="HEIGHT: 12.75pt" height=17><TD class=xl25 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; WIDTH: 65pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; HEIGHT: 12.75pt; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=86 height=17>Carlos Silva (http://www.baseballprospectus.com/player_search.php?search_name=Carlos%20Silva)</TD><TD class=xl24 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 16pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=21 x:num>33</TD><TD class=xl24 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 20pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=26 x:num>33</TD><TD class=xl24 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 29pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=39 x:num>202</TD><TD class=xl26 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 24pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=32 x:num>10.2</TD><TD class=xl27 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 24pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=32 x:num>1.60</TD><TD class=xl27 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 24pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=32 x:num>3.97</TD><TD class=xl24 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 24pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=32 x:num="0.89">0.9</TD><TD class=xl27 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 24pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=32 x:num>4.19</TD><TD class=xl27 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 24pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=32 x:num>4.41</TD><TD class=xl27 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 25pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=33 x:num>1.10</TD><TD class=xl24 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 33pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: white" width=44 x:num>35.5</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

[McCarroll21]

Yes, as you can expect his numbers to increase when he gets out of the American League and out of a home ballpark that uses astroturf (49% ground ball). He's still pretty young, as well.

200 inning pitcher - check
Good control - check
Keeps ball in the park - check

He has all the makings of a great middle of the rotation pitcher, and to me, that would be worth something close to $10 million a year on an annual basis ... especially in this market.

[GTBrave]

I would definitely take Silva over Chuckie. Like McCarroll said it's the innings we need much more than the better ERA or WHIP. Chuckie only gives us ~160 innings and he still has to miss a start or two from "tired shoulder?" Plus he only has 2 pitches... That just doesn't cut it for the majors.

I think Chuckie has been figured out by the NL East and if he stayed in the Braves rotation you could expect an even worse season next year.

[Nasadega]

Still the same posts about Chuck :) "He has no stuff, his ERA will rocket" we've been hearing that since his first game. Still logged a 4.24ERA, which is good for a guy with no stuff as you say. He's 26, I say he's our Francoeur pitcher. Once he keeps the ball in the park he'll be insanely good, and if the NL has figured him out, wait until he figures them out :) Keep faith.

[JayDonnelly10]

and if the NL has figured him out, wait until he figures them out :) Keep faith.

I like that!

Not so sure it'll happen but I like the attitude!

[Nasadega]

One day he'll realize that when you know who you are pitching to it helps being better, and that throwing letter-high fastballs is not the way to go. That day he'll be a beast.

[BGarrett7]

Still the same posts about Chuck :) "He has no stuff, his ERA will rocket" we've been hearing that since his first game. Still logged a 4.24ERA, which is good for a guy with no stuff as you say. He's 26, I say he's our Francoeur pitcher. Once he keeps the ball in the park he'll be insanely good, and if the NL has figured him out, wait until he figures them out :) Keep faith.Let's take a look at the longballs that Chuck allowed last season...

PA/HR - WHIP:
1st: 24.8 - 1.27
2nd: 25.2 - 1.30
3rd: 39.3 - 1.01
4th: 23.8 - 1.42
5th: 18.2 - 1.71
6th: 9.7 - 3.09
7th: 27.1 - 2.77

Direct correlation between his homers allowed per inning and his WHIP. Lower the WHIP, higher the PA/HR. Pretty simple stuff. Peaked in the third, dropped off considerably after that.

HR by Pitch Count:
1: 2
2: 11
3: 8
4: 4
5: 3
6: 2
7: 1
8: 0
9: 1
Avg. P/BF: 3.87
HR Early: 21
HR Deep: 11

Surprising, he allowed a lot more homers early in the count. With someone who has a limited arsenal like Chuck, I would imagine he would be allowing more as he got deeper in the count. He's just making a lot of early mistakes.

HR by Count:
0-0: 2
0-1: 5
1-0: 6
0-2: 2
1-1: 3
2-0: 3
1-2: 4
2-1: 2
2-2: 2
3-1: 0
3-2: 3
Even: 7
Ahead: 11
Behind: 14

Way too many homers being allowed ahead in the count. Again, just making too many mistakes, this time with pitches to burn. The homers behind in the count are to be expected, but there's really no excuse for allowing almost as many homers ahead in the count as when you fall behind.

HR by Ballpark (Pitchers/Hitters/Neutral - HR/9):
Turner Field: 16 (P - 1.76)
Citizens Bank Ballpark: 4 (H - 2.45)
Metrodome: 3 (P - 6.23)
Shea Stadium: 3 (P - 5.06)
Coors Field: 1 (H - 1.69)
Wrigley Field: 1 (H - 1.5)
Miller Park: 1 (H - 1.5)
AT&T Ballpark: 1 (N - 1.5)
Dolphin Stadium: 1 (N - 1.35)
RFK Stadim: 1 (P - 0.68)
Pitchers Park: 23 (1.98)
Hitters Park: 7 (1.97)
Neutral Park: 2 (1.42)

Again like with the count, there's no excuse for allowing the same rate of homers in pitchers parks as you are in hitters parks. This tells you one thing: when he's getting hit, he's getting hit hard. You should be using the spacious ballparks to your advantage, not letting them hit the ball just as hard.

[McCarroll21]

w00t! Nice post B. I like the breakdown with HR by the count.

[SamtheBravesFan]

Whether we like it or not, us Braves fans have to bank on James improving drastically next season because we're stuck with him. There are no better options as of right now. However, as the off-season progresses, I think we can all agree that the Braves are working on a plan to get into the race in 2008.

[tigerfan]

Braves fans have to bank on James improving drastically next season because we're stuck with him.
I am really failing to see your logic in that?

[SamtheBravesFan]

I am really failing to see your logic in that?

I say that because I believe that James appears so mediocre right now that the Braves can't get anyone better than him by trading him (unless the other team is stupid). Plus, they have no real options for a replacement starter, even if they get another. Lance Cormier is always unrealiable. Jo-Jo Reyes needs to have a good second go-around. And you can't count on Mike Hampton for squat.

[gobravez]

This is comforting news...

http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071106&content_id=2294553&vkey=news_atl&fext=.jsp&c_id=atl

[tigerfan]

what are our chances of signing glavine after dec 2 (or whatever date that is) and not losing a draft pick?

[Hobbes]

what are our chances of signing glavine after dec 2 (or whatever date that is) and not losing a draft pick?
It all depends on whether the Mets offer him arbitration. I think they will, others think they won't.

If they offer arbitration then we lose picks.

[HeidiBee21]

All I can say is Glavine needs to come back home.

[Cappy]

This time next Friday, I expect Tommy to once again be a Brave...

[Gibby]

This time next Friday, I expect Tommy to once again be a Brave...

I'm with you. I think Wren will try to sign him as soon as allowed.

[JayDonnelly10]

I'm with you. I think Wren will try to sign him as soon as allowed.

We can discuss contract detials and money as soon as next tuesday so Im assuming after tuesday, wednesday, thursday....he'll be signed by friday

Just a hunch, it'll get the Glavine signing out of the way and let Wren focus on a CF (DeJesus/Coco..etc) and #3 (Blanton/Haren) type deals

[Gibby]

he'll be signed by friday

Just a hunch, it'll get the Glavine signing out of the way and let Wren focus on a CF (DeJesus/Coco..etc) and #3 (Blanton/Haren) type deals

My thoughts exactly. I still don't think we can get Haren, but more power to him if we can!

[C-Dawg]

"Wren said if the Braves sign a free-agent starting pitcher — they're considered the favorites to land Glavine — they would probably go to spring training without acquiring another starter." :(

[lilsnatch07]

"Wren said if the Braves sign a free-agent starting pitcher — they're considered the favorites to land Glavine — they would probably go to spring training without acquiring another starter." :(


He's just bullshitting the media and other teams. Doesn't want them to know we are in such dire need of a number 3 starter!

[JayDonnelly10]

"Wren said if the Braves sign a free-agent starting pitcher — they're considered the favorites to land Glavine — they would probably go to spring training without acquiring another starter." :(

Yeah I wouldnt believe that....Glavine will be back, and we are going to explore options for trading for a SP

Filling the CF whole seems like more of a priority to Wren but we will make attempts at least to acquire another SP

[SamtheBravesFan]

He's just bullshitting the media and other teams. Doesn't want them to know we are in such dire need of a number 3 starter!

But that's an open secret. It's best to act like you're not in a need of something when you are, but come on. EVERYONE knows the Braves need a third consistent starter.

[C-Dawg]

But that's an open secret. It's best to act like you're not in a need of something when you are, but come on. EVERYONE knows the Braves need a third consistent starter.

For that matter, there aren't many teams out there--not named Red Sox--who aren't in need of same.

[SamtheBravesFan]

For that matter, there aren't many teams out there--not named Red Sox--who aren't in need of same.

Hell yes.

[Gibby]

"Wren said if the Braves sign a free-agent starting pitcher — they're considered the favorites to land Glavine — they would probably go to spring training without acquiring another starter." :(
Where did he say this? Just curious.
And I just read on Benmaller (http://msn.foxsports.com/other/story/6968560) that the Pads may deal Peavy. Man , wouldn't that be a nice addition. If I had to guess, I'd say Wren will pick up another starter after Glavine, but I think it will be nothing more than a crapshoot #5 guy. He may even think Jurrjens will be enough, (in addition to Glavine.) Who knows, maybe he will be. :rolleyes:

[DwightSchrute]

Where did he say this? Just curious.
And I just read on Benmaller (http://msn.foxsports.com/other/story/6968560) that the Pads may deal Peavy. Man , wouldn't that be a nice addition. If I had to guess, I'd say Wren will pick up another starter after Glavine, but I think it will be nothing more than a crapshoot #5 guy. He may even think Jurrjens will be enough, (in addition to Glavine.) Who knows, maybe he will be. :rolleyes:

I'd prefer they get 2 starters, but they're still in substantially better shape than last year even with only Glavine.

1. Smoltz
2. Hudson
3. Glavine

4. and 5.- James, Jurrjens, Reyes, Hampton

Not too shabby, I personally feel Jurrjens will emerge as a very solid 4 from day one, and James would be about the best #5 in baseball. I also feel Reyes turned a corner in September and is ready to start at the MLB level too. Anything Hampton can offer is gravy.

This is all contingent on James not going to KC for DeJesus, which I feel is overpaying.

[KB 34]

Question: What incentive is there for KC to trade DeJesus if they can't even get a struggling #5 starter with #3 potential for him?
Answer: There is none. DeJesus has a team-friendly contract and can be traded whenever they feel like. Interesting observation: I was reading a Tiger's message board after the Renteria deal went through and before that they felt one of the two prospects was a reasonable price to pay for Renteria. Fans don't like to think in terms of making another team also happy with a deal but it's the truth. Horacio deals cannot be expected, only enjoyed.

[McCarroll21]

DeJesus will be a Brave. Thorman, Acosta, and a fringe pitching prospect. Yupp!

[C-Dawg]

DeJesus will be a Brave. Thorman, Acosta, and a fringe pitching prospect. Yupp!

We're already losing Dotel, Mahay, and Gonzo is a question mark...not sure I wanna give up Acosta for a marginal, stop-gap CFer.

Maybe we could take a flyer on Baldelli for less, and the potential payoff IF it worked out could be a lot more than DeJesus.

[DwightSchrute]

We're already losing Dotel, Mahay, and Gonzo is a question mark...not sure I wanna give up Acosta for a marginal, stop-gap CFer.

Maybe we could take a flyer on Baldelli for less, and the potential payoff IF it worked out could be a lot more than DeJesus.

That's an awesome deal from the Braves perspective. Acosta's BB issues will catch up with him, and Thorman is obviously expendable. Then next offseason after DeJesus puts up a .790-.800 OPS and is still signed cheap, we flip him for a much better prospect than Acosta and give Jordan Schafer CF.

Edit: Meant to quote McCarroll's post one above yours.

[Scalpel19]

It could be Ascanio instead of Acosta. Acosta may be too valuable to let go, especially w/ MGonz out til mid season

[DwightSchrute]

It could be Ascanio instead of Acosta. Acosta may be too valuable to let go, especially w/ MGonz out til mid season

It will likely be Ascanio, but for other reasons. He's younger, has better stuff, and doesn't have control issues.

Thorman and Acosta, as nice as it would be, likely won't be enough for DeJesus. Thorman and Ascanio comes quite a bit closer to equal value.

[Preacher]

I'd rather hang on to Thorman as I don't think we're going to sign Teix. If we can resign Mark then I'm all for sending Thorman out of town.

[McCarroll21]

Even at the expense of him rotting away and getting MAYBE 80 at bats and taking another huge step backward next year?

[Preacher]

Even at the expense of him rotting away and getting MAYBE 80 at bats and taking another huge step backward next year?

Yes at that expense; and the reason why is I think he has 20-35 homer potential from the left side, if he's given a couple years to develop.

If we can lock up Teix then it's moot; but if not; I like Thorman a lot more than I do KK and we really don't have much else in the system.

[Scalpel19]

I believe that Thorman, Prado, BJones, and James will all be gone before the new year. Some to KC and some to Oak...along with others

[SamtheBravesFan]

I still don't see what other teams would see in Prado.

[Hobbes]

I still don't see what other teams would see in Prado.
Probably the same thing we see in Prado - potentially useful but without much value on his own. He'd be a add-on to sweeten a deal, nothing more.

[Scalpel19]

Exactly right

[gobravez]

"Braves: While the two parties can't specifically talk dollars until Tuesday, the Braves are certainly optimistic that they'll fill their need for a starting pitcher by signing Tom Glavine. Multiple club sources have said they believe the veteran left-hander will likely wait at least one week before announcing that he'll be pitching in Atlanta next year.
The Braves will likely offer a one-year deal worth $8-9 million that includes a mutual option for the 2009 season. Glavine's agent, Gregg Clifton, said the two parties talked last week and expect to do so again this week.
As for their other need, in center field with the departure of Jones, the Braves remain high on internal candidate Brent Lillibridge and have said there is an outside chance they could use him as their center fielder next year if they're not able to find Jones' replacement via the trade market.
Last year, the Braves attempted to land the Rays' Rocco Baldelli. With Baldelli having missed most of the 2007 season and consequently enhancing his status as a health risk, the Braves would likely need the Rays to include one of their other young outfielders in the deal.
Last week, the St. Petersburg Times listed Lillibridge as one of the prospects the Rays may target to fill their need for a shortstop. Because of the rapid rise of top prospect Jordan Schafer, the Braves aren't looking for a long-term solution in center. They'd like to land an economical player via the trade market who could fill the position for one year --possibly two -- if Schafer should stumble in 2008."
http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071112&content_id=2298772&vkey=hotstove2007&fext=.jsp&partnered=rss_mlb

[SamtheBravesFan]

One thing I do hope is this: if we sign Glavine, I hope that first-round draft pick that we lose won't bite us in the butt.

[vnodnarb]

Assuming we do sign Glavine that would give us 3 of the top 5 N.L. leaders in Quality Starts.

[JayDonnelly10]

"Braves: While the two parties can't specifically talk dollars until Tuesday, the Braves are certainly optimistic that they'll fill their need for a starting pitcher by signing Tom Glavine. Multiple club sources have said they believe the veteran left-hander will likely wait at least one week before announcing that he'll be pitching in Atlanta next year.
The Braves will likely offer a one-year deal worth $8-9 million that includes a mutual option for the 2009 season. Glavine's agent, Gregg Clifton, said the two parties talked last week and expect to do so again this week.
As for their other need, in center field with the departure of Jones, the Braves remain high on internal candidate Brent Lillibridge and have said there is an outside chance they could use him as their center fielder next year if they're not able to find Jones' replacement via the trade market.
Last year, the Braves attempted to land the Rays' Rocco Baldelli. With Baldelli having missed most of the 2007 season and consequently enhancing his status as a health risk, the Braves would likely need the Rays to include one of their other young outfielders in the deal.
Last week, the St. Petersburg Times listed Lillibridge as one of the prospects the Rays may target to fill their need for a shortstop. Because of the rapid rise of top prospect Jordan Schafer, the Braves aren't looking for a long-term solution in center. They'd like to land an economical player via the trade market who could fill the position for one year --possibly two -- if Schafer should stumble in 2008."
http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071112&content_id=2298772&vkey=hotstove2007&fext=.jsp&partnered=rss_mlb

Nice I just came across this and was about to post it as well!

[SamtheBravesFan]

Assuming we do sign Glavine that would give us 3 of the top 5 N.L. leaders in Quality Starts.

That may be true, but that would turn out to just be a neat statistic. That won't have any bearing on next season because who knows what will happen.

[McCarroll21]

That may be true, but that would turn out to just be a neat statistic. That won't have any bearing on next season because who knows what will happen.
But the innings throughout their career give you the confidence that we will have at least three pitchers nearing 200 innings pitched. That is a nice upgrade over getting only 160 innings from your #3 starter.

I agree that it wouldn't mean anything for 2008, but the fact that it's not uncommon territory for any of them makes you feel very good about what they have.

[Gibby]

But the innings throughout their career give you the confidence that we will have at least three pitchers nearing 200 innings pitched. That is a nice upgrade over getting only 160 innings from your #3 starter.


AMEN!

[nickzilla6066]

One thing I do hope is this: if we sign Glavine, I hope that first-round draft pick that we lose won't bite us in the butt.

Screw draft picks, first round picks only average what?, something between 20-30% chance of actually ever reaching the majors and not necessarily as anything all that great. I'm not a huge Glavine fan but I wouldn't let a draft pick prevent me from bringing his old ass back. I'll take a proven quantity over a dice roll any day.

Anyone else worry about a potential 3,4,5 that is completely lefty though? Glavine, James, Hampton/Reyes. Too much under powering left handedness if you ask me. God I hope J.J. pans out and proves himself good enough to be a 4 to break up Glavine/James.

[Gibby]

I actually like the idea or 3,4,5 lefties. Correct me if I'm wrong, but didn't lefties kill us last year.

[Gibby]

OK, I take that back, they didn't kill us, but 31-32 isn't great compared to 53-46 against righties.

[MPH]

Assuming we do sign Glavine that would give us 3 of the top 5 N.L. leaders in Quality Starts.
And 4 of the top twenty pitchers in the National League over the past two seasons, according to Elias Sports Bureau.

[McCarroll21]

And 4 of the top twenty pitchers in the National League over the past two seasons, according to Elias Sports Bureau.
.. or three

[SamtheBravesFan]

But the innings throughout their career give you the confidence that we will have at least three pitchers nearing 200 innings pitched. That is a nice upgrade over getting only 160 innings from your #3 starter.

I agree that it wouldn't mean anything for 2008, but the fact that it's not uncommon territory for any of them makes you feel very good about what they have.

Well, it could still happen. Glavine would be an upgrade over a fifth starter or James for sure, but what I'm not confident in is his ability to keep it up consistently, quality starts nonwithstanding.

[vnodnarb]

I'm confused, what more can you ask from a #4 pitcher than 23 QS and being 5th in the NL with them? In fact, that's a very good amount for a #2 pitcher. If you don't think QS's are important, check out some team's records when their starter gives them a QS.

[JCStone7]

Not to steal your thunder v, but that's what I said in the Chuck James article

[SamtheBravesFan]

I'm more leery of the fact that Glavine would be 42 next season if he signs with the Braves. I know the Braves already have Smoltz, but even he can fall off the table completely at any moment. That is basically why I'm worried.

[JCStone7]

I'm more leery of the fact that Glavine would be 42 next season if he signs with the Braves. I know the Braves already have Smoltz, but even he can fall off the table completely at any moment. That is basically why I'm worried.

The one thing you can't argue with in baseball is consistency. Glavine has been consistent throughout his career. Not to mention he won't be an ace on this staff, he'll be a #3 at worst. Meaning we only need 175+ innings.

[SamtheBravesFan]

The one thing you can't argue with in baseball is consistency. Glavine has been consistent throughout his career. Not to mention he won't be an ace on this staff, he'll be a #3 at worst. Meaning we only need 175+ innings.

And then in any year, especially after the age 40 season, it can be blown all to hell. I understand that Glavine has been consistent, and I do think that, if healthy, he'll do as you describe, but it's a little disconcerting to have a bit of our hopes hinge on that.

[JCStone7]

And then in any year, especially after the age 40 season, it can be blown all to hell. I understand that Glavine has been consistent, and I do think that, if healthy, he'll do as you describe, but it's a little disconcerting to have a bit of our hopes hinge on that.

In my defense, it's better placing hope on a consistent guy over a southpaw who hasn't pitched since 2005.

[JayDonnelly10]

In my defense, it's better placing hope on a consistent guy over a southpaw who hasn't pitched since 2005.

Yes, Sir!

[SamtheBravesFan]

I wasn't implying that I was comparing him to Hampton. He didn't even enter my mind at all. The direct comparison I had in my head was Chuck James. When Glavine hit his lows last season, he was doing his best James impression. The question to me is is he going to be doing some more of that next year? I sure hope not.

[JCStone7]

I wasn't implying that I was comparing him to Hampton. He didn't even enter my mind at all. The direct comparison I had in my head was Chuck James. When Glavine hit his lows last season, he was doing his best James impression. The question to me is is he going to be doing some more of that next year? I sure hope not.

I see your point. BUT Atlanta wouldn't use Glavine as an ace like the Mets did, we'd use him as a #3 at the very worst. It's a different story when you're facing a Carlos Zambrano rather than a Jason Marquis.

[SamtheBravesFan]

I see your point. BUT Atlanta wouldn't use Glavine as an ace like the Mets did, we'd use him as a #3 at the very worst. It's a different story when you're facing a Carlos Zambrano rather than a Jason Marquis.

So true. Glavine was an ace and co-ace during his Braves tenure. Now, he doesn't have to do that. I see your point.

As a side-note, do you think that John Smoltz and Tim Hudson are co-aces?

[JayDonnelly10]

So true. Glavine was an ace and co-ace during his Braves tenure. Now, he doesn't have to do that. I see your point.

As a side-note, do you think that John Smoltz and Tim Hudson are co-aces?

Yes! At least I think so....

[JCStone7]

So true. Glavine was an ace and co-ace during his Braves tenure. Now, he doesn't have to do that. I see your point.

As a side-note, do you think that John Smoltz and Tim Hudson are co-aces?

I do, I believe Bobby will move Tim Hudson into the main ace role ala 2006 and Smoltz to #2

[sayheykid]

From ESPN's Keith Law, who ranked Glavine 50th out of the 50 best free agents...

Glavine may try to pitch one more year, but he'd be wise to remember the ignominious end of another lefty's career, that of Steve Carlton. Carlton didn't know when to walk away, and after a terrible 1987, Carlton tried to come back one more time and gave up 19 runs in nine-plus innings before he was released. Glavine's 2007 wasn't as bad as Carlton's last full season, but he posted one of the worst earned-run averages of his career, one of the worst groundball rates of his career and one of his worst strikeout rates of his career. Glavine's stuff is down. His fastball is 80-84 mph, his change at 74-75 with visible slowing of his arm, his slow-roller curve at 75-77 -- and none of it able to miss bats. Glavine has to pitch hitters away and avoid contact; if he's not getting something extra on the outside corner, he's doomed. He'll get an offer if he wants to pitch, but even in a big park in the National League, he's a 50-50 shot to get released or retire midyear. It's been a great run, Tom -- don't push it.

I've been vocal about not wanting him back; I feel like I don't need to add to this

[JCStone7]

From ESPN's Keith Law, who ranked Glavine 50th out of the 50 best free agents...

Glavine may try to pitch one more year, but he'd be wise to remember the ignominious end of another lefty's career, that of Steve Carlton. Carlton didn't know when to walk away, and after a terrible 1987, Carlton tried to come back one more time and gave up 19 runs in nine-plus innings before he was released. Glavine's 2007 wasn't as bad as Carlton's last full season, but he posted one of the worst earned-run averages of his career, one of the worst groundball rates of his career and one of his worst strikeout rates of his career. Glavine's stuff is down. His fastball is 80-84 mph, his change at 74-75 with visible slowing of his arm, his slow-roller curve at 75-77 -- and none of it able to miss bats. Glavine has to pitch hitters away and avoid contact; if he's not getting something extra on the outside corner, he's doomed. He'll get an offer if he wants to pitch, but even in a big park in the National League, he's a 50-50 shot to get released or retire midyear. It's been a great run, Tom -- don't push it.

I've been vocal about not wanting him back; I feel like I don't need to add to this

And yet how many games did he win in the weak NL??? Not to mention he'll have a great offense and defense behind him??

Come back when you have a valid point!

[JayDonnelly10]

And yet how many games did he win in the weak NL??? Not to mention he'll have a great offense and defense behind him??

Come back when you have a valid point!

JC is the man!!!!

I wanted to respond to that but figured it wouldnt be a very nice response...nice work!

[Gibby]

From ESPN's Keith Law, who ranked Glavine 50th out of the 50 best free agents...

Glavine may try to pitch one more year, but he'd be wise to remember the ignominious end of another lefty's career, that of Steve Carlton. Carlton didn't know when to walk away, and after a terrible 1987, Carlton tried to come back one more time and gave up 19 runs in nine-plus innings before he was released. Glavine's 2007 wasn't as bad as Carlton's last full season, but he posted one of the worst earned-run averages of his career, one of the worst groundball rates of his career and one of his worst strikeout rates of his career. Glavine's stuff is down. His fastball is 80-84 mph, his change at 74-75 with visible slowing of his arm, his slow-roller curve at 75-77 -- and none of it able to miss bats. Glavine has to pitch hitters away and avoid contact; if he's not getting something extra on the outside corner, he's doomed. He'll get an offer if he wants to pitch, but even in a big park in the National League, he's a 50-50 shot to get released or retire midyear. It's been a great run, Tom -- don't push it.

I've been vocal about not wanting him back; I feel like I don't need to add to this

Wait a minute... maybe you're right! What if he has a bad season!! Let's not sign Glavine. Hey, Smoltz is getting old too. Let's release him. You know, just in case. Oh yea, that Chipper guy is aging and he never makes it a whole season, let's drop him and sign someone younger, just in case something should happen to go wrong this season. Obviously we don't want to take that chance.
Baseball in large part is a game of chance. Tom Glavine is well worth taking the chance. Enough said!

[JCStone7]

While we're at it Bobby cox is past his worth, let's give the reins to Eddie Perez... I'm sorry you don't lose consistency. The only thing you lose in baseball is hair and batting average points.

[Gibby]

While we're at it Bobby cox is past his worth, let's give the reins to Eddie Perez... I'm sorry you don't lose consistency. The only thing you lose in baseball is hair and batting average points.

Oh yea, I forgot about Bobby. Schuerholtz is getting pretty old too. Give him the boot. I have an idea. Let's call up our entire Single-A team to take the place of the Braves. They're all young, so that means we'd probably win the world series or something.

[Tex4Prez]

hahahahaha you guys are hilarious im still laughin right now and :bow: to JC to making the valid point of bringing Glavine back he needs to come back to help smoltz chipper and the rest of the gang a championship.

[josephw000]

...Why would we not want Glavine after the mediocrity that was 2007 for the Braves? If he does what he did last year, or close, it'll be a success story.

[SamtheBravesFan]

The only thing that the Steve Carlton analogy proves, which isn't much, is that any ball player near the end of their career can fall off the table at any given point. That's what I was worried about yesterday. But as JC pointed out, there's no real reason to think that he'll fall off the table. Also, there was no real reason to think Carlton would have fallen off the table after 1984. I think he was injured in his 92 IP, 1-8 1985 season (at age 40) and that led to his nomadic end in 1986 and 1987 because he, and others, thought he could still pitch.

The comparison doesn't apply to this situation, at least right now.

[McCarroll21]

From Bowman's mailbag... I don't normally like him as I like to think he just re-churns stories, changes a word here and there. You'll likely see a pre-season article this spring that you saw last spring and the year before... Francoeur and McCann: Childhood friends. But anyway...

http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071111&content_id=2298283&vkey=news_atl&fext=.jsp&c_id=atl
While the Braves were in New York late this past season, one of the Mets players pulled a Braves coach aside and said, "If you guys had signed Glavine, you'd be running away with this division right now."

Fortunately for the Braves, the financial hurdles that they claim prevented them from signing Glavine last year no longer exist. My belief is that we're simply in the midst of a waiting game. My expectation is that he will officially re-sign with his original organization during November's final week.

Once Glavine signs the dotted line, there would certainly be legitimate reason to consider the Braves the favorites to win the National League East. Their primary need to gain this status is landing a durable and dependable veteran starter.

Over the course of the past two decades, nobody (well maybe Greg Maddux) has fit this description better than Glavine. Dating back to 1989, there has been just one non-strike-shortened season in which he didn't complete at least 198 innings. This past season, his 200 1/3 innings would have ranked third on the Braves -- nearly 40 innings ahead of the next closest pitcher (Chuck James).

Set to turn 42 in March and carrying the strains of a left shoulder that has bothered him throughout a large portion of his career, Glavine isn't nearly as good as he was when he won Cy Young Awards with the Braves in 1991 and 1998. But with John Smoltz and Tim Hudson already in place, there is no need for him to assume the role of ace in Atlanta.

Instead, the Braves only need him to maintain his fierce competitive desire and display the clubhouse leadership skills that still make him a welcome addition to any team, especially one such as the Braves, who need a veteran to stabilize their rotation.

Glavine's final three starts of the season gave his critics some added ammunition. I've even heard some pointing out the fact that, statistically, his ERA, opponents batting average and opponents on-base percentage were trumped by those posted by James.Fact is, he helps out a rotation. Secondly, had all 25 Mets not stunk up the joint over the last two weeks of the season, placing Glavine's last start, one in which he gave up 7 runs to the Marlins, in the spotlight, no on would be saying anything.

[JCStone7]

You're damn right if we had Glav in 07 it would've been the Phils and Braves fighting for division supremacy. But no use crying "coulda, woulda, shoulda." So let's bring Glavine back to the promised land so that the Braves can return to their promised land.

2008 National League East Champions!!!

[CB1]

You're damn right if we had Glav in 07 it would've been the Phils and Braves fighting for division supremacy. But no use crying "coulda, woulda, shoulda." So let's bring Glavine back to the promised land so that the Braves can return to their promised land.

2008 National League East Champions!!!
I'm taking it two steps further.
2008 WORLD SERIES CHAMPIONS!!!

[Tex4Prez]

I'm taking it two steps further.
2008 WORLD SERIES CHAMPIONS!!!

DITO!!!! if we bring Glavine back and does what he did last year we'll def be a good contender in 08 can't wait to see it happen.

[GTBrave]

We need another red flag in the Ted!

[crossxcheck]

I don't necessarily think Glavo will be the savior or anything, but he will definitely make a solid #4!!

[CB1]

I don't necessarily think Glavo will be the savior or anything, but he will definitely make a solid #4!!
What about trying to get a Red Sox pitcher? It's not likely, as this is Schill's last year, but they are considering going with a 6-man rotation (unbelievable, if we had had that last season, we would have lost no more than 10 games, that is, if we had the talent 1-6 like they have).

[nickzilla6066]

I don't necessarily think Glavo will be the savior or anything, but he will definitely make a solid #4!!

I have accepted that he is going to be our #3 for next year but only with great reluctance, he just is not that good anymore and stands to get worse. I don't think that is a fact that should just be tossed aside as if it has no value. With that said though, he'll hopefully be a capable 3 and seems to be among the best available without overpaying in terms of dollars and years. Let's hope he can muster one more good season and push us over the top.

[Hobbes]

I'm sorry you don't lose consistency.
Actually, that is usually the first thing to go as a pitcher hits his twilight years (well, maybe velocity). Most pitchers who get to that hanging-on stage lose that consistency, mixing in horrible outings with great ones.

I'm not a big fan of bringing him back, but the biggest advantage to Glavine is that he can be had for an affordable one-year deal without giving up talent.

[Gibby]

I'm not a big fan of bringing him back, but the biggest advantage to Glavine is that he can be had for an affordable one-year deal without giving up talent.

I'm a huge fan of bringing back Glavine. Now, if we had to choose between Glavine and another pitcher like Haren or Colon, and could only have one, then I would lean towards not bringing him back. But that's not case, or so it appears.

[gobravez]

Braves to meet with Glavine's agent:


http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071113&content_id=2299766&vkey=news_atl&fext=.jsp&c_id=atl


Has this been posted?!?

[Jsh1284]

That's fairly interesting. I wonder if his agent is just blowing smoke.

[JCStone7]

Actually, that is usually the first thing to go as a pitcher hits his twilight years (well, maybe velocity).

Since when have you known Glavine to get by on velocity? Finesse pitchers don't fall off the edge, they may get worse yes but they don't forget how to pitch.

[McCarroll21]

Glavine will sign either right before or during Winter Meetings.

[Jsh1284]

Come on home, Tom!

Cant wait to have him back where he belongs. I just hope we can do something to acquire another #3-#4 type starter (preferrably right handed) to keep from having three soft tossing lefties going back-to-back-to-back, tho. T