Braves Update

It's been a good couple weeks since my last post and I apologize to those who enjoy reading the blog. I really don't have a good excuse for the lack of posts. I plan on continuing here, however with college classes starting, my time might be limited. I'll try to keep updating as much as possible. It helps that there is only one more month of the season left, and I have a realistic belief that Braves won't be playing in October.

The Braves have been pretty much a huge disappointment. Many, especially me, expected the Braves to make a turnaround after the trade deadline and pass the Mets. The Braves did nothing except fall 7 games back of the NY Mets, and 4 back of the wild card. If you look at the teams ERA and runs scored since the all-star break, their record "should" be much better.

The lack of performance can be mainly blamed on the poor pitching staff, or just plain bad luck. With Chuck James on the DL, the rotation outside of John Smoltz and Tim Hudson is a complete joke. If the Braves want to compete at all next season, another ace starter should be signed or traded for. Yes, that is an ACE. We don't need Jon Garlands or journey men guys like Carlyle.

Smoltz, Hudson, ACE, James, Hampton would be solid (if Hampton ever pitches again).

The Braves could also somehow improve their bullpen as well. It is a relief to see Bob Wickman be removed from the team. Who would of thought that this guy would turn out that bad? Another Dan Kolb? Ok, not THAT bad.

Here is a list of free agents available during the off season.

The Braves offense should be plenty good enough for next season. We still have Chipper, Teixeira, Francoeur, McCann, Johnson, Renteria (could be traded), Diaz, Harris to play. My best bet is that Andruw is gone, and that someone in the minors like Brandon Jones will replace him. I would certainly like to see that rather than the Braves overpay for a scrub like Mike Cameron.

I do not want to see Chris Woodward, Tyler Yates or Scott Thorman next season.

If you want to get an idea of what some Braves fans are feeling about the team, check out the Braves official site forum.

Well, that's all I have for now. I'll try to give an update on the next couple of games vs. the Fish.