Braves Win Second Straight Spring Game Over Yanks

The Braves rode the power of three solo shots and stingy pitching past the Yankees, winning 3-2.

Casey Kotchman, Greg Norton and Brandon Jones all had solo shots and Jair Jurrjens went 3 2/3 innings and was charged with a run that Buddy Carlyle allowed to score. Including Carlyle's base stats, Atlanta had 5 1/3 innings of pitching where they allowed just two hits and no runs. Kris Medlen, Mariano Gomez, Luis Valdez and Zach Schreiber all had scoreless innings. Yunel Escobar was the only Brave with two hits.

The Braves will start with Tommy Hanson against the Phillies in tomorrow's game.

W - Buddy Carlyle (1-0)
L - Brett Tomko (0-1)
S - Zach Schreiber (1)
HR - Casey Kotchman (1)
Greg Norton (2)
Brandon Jones (1)

Braves Crush Astros, Allow Just Two Hits

The Braves utterly dominated the Astros both on the field and at the plate, winning 13-0.

Matt Diaz led the charge, going 3-4 with a double, homer, two runs and four RBIs. Starting at third base, Martin Prado went 2-4 and drove three runs and scored one. Jeff Francoeur, Casey Kotchman and Clint Sammons all scored two runs each.

Jo-Jo Reyes started for Atlanta and went four innings, allowing no hits and walking two batters. In his two innings, Jeff Bennett allowed the Astros their only two hits. Boone Logan, Manny Acosta and Todd Redmond all had scoreless innings. The staff allowed only five base-runners total all game.

The Braves continue the spring today against the Yankees while the World Baseball Classic picks up steam.

W - Jo-Jo Reyes (1-0)
L - Fernando Nieve (0-1)
HR - Matt Diaz (1)

After Slow Start, Braves Take Care Of Venezuela

After falling behind Venezuela early, the Braves played a see-saw game with their opponents before prevailing 8-4.

Braves starter Derek Lowe didn't allow a hit in three innings, but he had two wild pitches and allowed a run. Jeff Francoeur put the Braves on top with a two-run shot, his first homer of the spring. In the sixth, Jeff Ridgway allowed a two-run single to Miguel Cabrera and an RBI single to Magglio Ordonez. Emiliano Fruto bailed him out and pitched another scoreless inning. Eric O'Flaherty, Stephen Marek, Rafael Cruz and Anthony Lerew all had scoreless innings.

Venezuela's Jan Granado, whose last American baseball experience came with the Anderson (S. C.) Joes of the now-defunct South Coast League, pitched two scoreless innings to start the game, allowing just two walks. Victor Zambrano pitched a scoreless inning and Francisco Rodriguez struck out the side in his inning of work.

The Braves regained the lead with a five-run ninth, highlighted by a bases-loaded double from first baseman Barbaro Canizares. The Braves turned three double plays in the game.

W - Emiliano Fruto
L - Victor Moreno
HR - Jeff Francoeur

Team USA Wins Homer-Happy Tune-up Over Phillies

Team USA capped off their tune-up games by out-homering the Philadelphia Phillies 4-2 on their way to winning 9-6.

The Phillies struck first in the opening inning off of Team USA starter Jeremy Guthrie. Former Brave Marcus Giles drew a walk and Eric Bruntlett doubled him home. The score stayed 1-0 until Team USA exploded for nine unanswered runs.

Three straight singles in the third plated a run and Chipper Jones drove in everyone with a three-run shot to left off of Kyle Kendrick. Brian McCann and Ryan Braun hit back-to-back solo shots in the fourth and Adam Dunn crushed a three-run homer in the fifth to make the lead 9-1 USA. The Phillies scored three off of Matt Lindstrom thanks to a Ryan Howard home run, one off of Matt Thornton, courtesy of Jason Donald's solo homer, and one off of Joe Besienius in the eighth. Johnathan Broxton closed out the game for Team USA in the ninth.

David Wright was the only Team USA member with two hits. Chipper Jones scored two runs. Giles scored two runs for the Phillies and Lou Marson, another former Olympian, had two hits.

The United States opens World Baseball Classic play on March 7 in Toronto against Canada. The Canadians, who were also 2-1 in exhibition games against major league teams, defeated Team USA 8-6 in the preliminary round of the 2006 World Baseball Classic.

W - Jeremy Guthrie
L - Kyle Kendrick
S - Johnathan Broxton
HR - USA - Chipper Jones
Brian McCann
Ryan Braun
Adam Dunn
PHI - Ryan Howard
Jason Donald

Kawakami, Kotchman Pitch And Bat Braves Over Yanks

Fueled by Kenshin Kawakami's well-pitched start and Casey Kotchman's two-run double, the Braves held on to edge the New York Yankees 3-2.

Kawakami walked three in his three innings of work, but he only allowed two hits and he struck out two batters as well. Casey Kotchman had a two-run double in the first inning off of Yankees starter Ian Kennedy. After Blaine Boyer continued the shutout in the fourth, Todd Redmond and Kris Medlen gave up runs in the fifth and sixth innings. However, Yunel Escobar drove in a run in the bottom of the fifth to provide the margin for the final score. Francisely Bueno, Mariano Gomez and Juan Perez all had scoreless innings to finish the game off the Braves.

The Braves play their second WBC team tomorrow when they face Team Venezuela.

W - Kenshin Kawakami (2-0)
L - Ian Kennedy (0-1)
S - Juan Perez (1)

EDIT: Added W/L/S/HR chart.

Blue Jays Rally In Ninth, Top Team USA

Blue Jays first base prospect Brian Dopirak drove in three runs in two at-bats, including a walk-off two-run single off Team USA reliever J. J. Putz to lead the Blue Jays to victory 6-5.

Jimmy Rollins had a two-run double for Team USA in their four-run eighth inning that put the team up 3-2. Catcher Brian McCann also had a double and scored a run. Ryan Braun added an RBI single to make it 4-2 in the inning.

Blue Jay outfield hopeful Travis Snider had three singles and a run scored. Catcher Kyle Phillips added two hits and a run scored himself.

Ted Lilly started for Team USA and allowed one run in four innings of work. Brad Mills and Matt Clement of the Blue Jays held Team USA to just one earned run (off of Mills) in two three-inning stints each. Team USA battered Blue Jay pitcher Reid Santos for their last four runs.

Scot Shields and J. P. Howell had scoreless innings for Team USA. LaTroy Hawkins and Joel Hanrahan, late additions to the team, allowed one run apiece in their innings of work.

Team USA's final tune-up game will be against the Phillies tomorrow.

W - Dirk Hayhurst
L - J. J. Putz

EDIT: The W/L/S/HR really don't count, so the totals are removed.

Team USA Takes Advantage of Youth, Hold On For Victory

In their first tune-up game for the World Baseball Classic, Team USA took an early lead, used Yankee pitchers' inexperience to their advantage and then held off a furious rally for a 6-5 victory.

The Yankees struck first in the game off of Team USA starter Roy Oswalt. Brett Gardner singling, moving to third on Mark Teixeira's single and scoring on Jorge Posada's single. Team USA answered in the third inning with Derek Jeter's two-run single.

There was no more scoring until the sixth, when Team USA took advantage of Yankees pitcher Eric Hacker's wildness. He walked two batters, allowed two singles, including a two-run one by Kevin Youkilis, and threw two wild pitches. That opened up a five-run lead for Team USA.

The Yankees scored three in the bottom of the inning off of Matt Thornton, fueled by a two-run ground-rule double by Nick Swisher. Heath Bell and Johnathan Broxton had scoreless innings after that, but Matt Lindstrom struggled in the ninth, allowing two straight singles and a sacrifice fly. He got a pop out and a fly out with the tying run on second base to end the game, however.

Team USA only had six singles in the game, but they also had five walks. They play the Blue Jays next on Wednesday.

W - Roy Oswalt
L - Phil Hughes
S - Matt Lindstrom

EDIT: The W/L/S/HR really don't count, so the totals are removed.

Braves Smash Panama For Double Digits

In the Braves' first tune-up game to help (or harm?) some WBC teams, they pasted Team Panama 11-2.

Bruce Chen, the fourth-best prospect in baseball 10 years ago, started for Panama and was roughed up for four runs in 1 2/3 innings.

Reid Gorecki, who played for Mississippi and Richmond last year, led off the eighth inning with a home run off of Manuel Campos. Jason Heyward followed that one out and one runner later with his first home run of the spring. Seven different Braves batted in a run. Greg Norton had two hits in three at-bats, including a double. Third baseman Diory Hernandez had two singles and a walk.

Top prospect Tommy Hanson started for Atlanta and pitched three innings, allowing just one unearned run in three innings of work. He allowed two singles, walked one and struck out three. James Parr was the only other Brave to allow a run. Mike Gonzalez, Boone Logan and Manny Acosta all had scoreless innings. Buddy Carlyle had two in his second (or third) multiple-inning stint.

W - Tommy Hanson
L - Bruce Chen
HR - Reid Gorecki
Jason Heyward

EDIT: The W/L/S/HR really don't count, so the totals are removed.

Phillies Get To Relievers To Beat Braves

The Philadelphia Phillies pounded Braves relievers Jeff Ridgway and Jeff Bennett for six runs, coming from behind to beat Atlanta 7-3.

Jo-Jo Reyes had three scoreless frames to start the game and the Braves took a 2-0 lead. Peter Moylan made his live pitching return after Eric O'Flaherty's scorless inning; he gave up a run on two hits. Stephen Marek and Phil Stockman each had scoreless innings.

Brian McCann was 1-2 with a home run, a sac fly and two RBIs. Chipper Jones had a double in three at-bats. Josh Anderson had two hits, including a triple. Former Brave Marcus Giles had a single and double for the Phillies, scored two runs and had an RBI.

The Braves play Panama next to help the national team tune up for the World Baseball Classic.

W - Chan Ho Park (1-0)
L - Jeff Ridgway (0-1)
HR - Brian McCann (1)

EDIT: Added W/L/S/HR chart.

Braves Clip Blue Jays, Lowe Decent In Braves Debut

Atlanta continued its winning ways Saturday afternoon, defeating the Blue Jays 6-3 in their third straight spring victory.

Derek Lowe made his spring debut for the Braves and Roy Halladay made his for the Blue Jays. Lowe gave up a run in two innings on five singles, but he also struck out three batters.

The Braves teed off of Blue Jays closer B. J. Ryan in the third. They scored four runs, including a two-run double by Kelly Johnson, in that inning. They added runs in the seventh and ninth innings.

Johnson was 2-3 with a double, a run scored and two RBIs. Matt Diaz had an RBI double and a run in four at-bats. Jordan Schafer was 2-4, with a double, a walk and three runs scored. Yunel Escobar also had two hits.

Francisely Bueno had two scoreless innings of work for the Braves. Vladimir Nunez finished the game with 1 1/3 scoreless innings, coming in after Luis Valdez walked four batters. Blaine Boyer and Rafael Cruz had a scoreless inning each. Emiliano Fruto allowed a run in the sixth.

The Braves play the Phillies Sunday afternoon.

W - Derek Lowe (1-0)
L - B. J. Ryan (0-1)
S - Vladimir Nunez (1)

Kawakami Impresses In Spring Debut, Braves Shut Down Pirates

New Brave Kenshin Kawakami worked on his fastball, cutter and curve against the Pittsburgh Pirates and kept them off the board in two innings. He allowed just a single to Adam LaRoche in two innings. Better still, Atlanta defeated the Bucs 5-2.

Omar Infante opened up the scoring for the game with an RBI double off of Jason Davis. Greg Norton made it 2-0 for the Braves with a solo home run off of Zach Duke. Chipper Jones, who will leave the Braves at the start of March to play for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic, smacked a two-run home run in the fifth inning off of Daniel McCutchen.

Brian McCann, the other Braves representative on Team USA, had a single and two walks. Jeff Francoeur also had two walks. Catcher Alvin Colina, who was obtained as a minor league free agent by the Braves, doubled and scored in the eighth for the final run. Omar Infante and Josh Anderson had doubles.

Kawakami and Buddy Carlyle each had scoreless stints of two innings apiece; Carlyle struck out three batters. Mariano Gomez, Kris Medlen and Todd Redmond all had a scoreless inning of work. Gomez and Medlen struck out two batters each. Anthony Lerew and Kevin Gunderson, who pitched for Richmond and Mississippi last year respectively, both gave up a run in each of their innings.

The Braves play the Blue Jays next.

W - Kenshin Kawakami (1-0)
L - Jason Davis (0-1)
HR - Greg Norton (1)
Chipper Jones (1)

Braves Make First Comeback Of Year, Get Past Astros

The Braves pulled off a comeback Thursday afternoon, defeating the Houston Astros 8-7.

The day didn't start well, though. Jorge Campillo, the Braves starter, was lit up for three runs in the first inning and Tommy Hanson, also making his spring debut, was hit for two runs. One run may have been a consequence of a retaliatory hit-by-pitch; Roy Oswalt had plunked Yunel Escobar with a pitch and Hanson plunked Miguel Tejada on the back in return. However, Hanson still impressed with two strikeouts.

Roy Oswalt struck out the side in the first inning and generally looked good in three innings of work. His only mistake was a two-run shot by backup catcher David Ross. That closed the gap to 3-2. The Astros, though, made it 5-2 after the third and scored two runs off of Braves closer Mike Gonzalez in the fifth to up the score to 7-2.

The Braves struck back in the sixth off of Astros pitcher Sergio Perez, loading the bases with an error, a single and a walk. Brandon Jones, Matt Diaz and Gregor Blanco all had singles to help close the gap. A double play brought in another run.

In the eighth, Freddie Freeman, the top first base prospect in the organization, led off with a solo home run off of Gilbert de la Vara. With one out, Jason Heyward, the top outfield prospect of the Braves, walked. Career minor-leaguer J. C. Boscan, who came in for David Ross, then doubled him home and James Parr completed a two-inning stint for the win.

Brandon Jones had two hits and Jeff Bennett and Boone Logan, who are both vying for bullpen spots, had scoreless innings.

W - James Parr (1-0)
L - Gilbert de la Vara (0-1)
HR - David Ross (1)
Freddie Freeman (1)

Spring Opener Not So Bright For Braves

The Atlanta Braves lost their Grapefruit League opener to the Detroit Tigers, 5-4 Wednesday afternoon.

Second-year starter Jair Jurrjens started the game for Atlanta and the Tigers opened with five-year veteran Justin Verlander. Each pitcher went two innings.

The Tigers scored two runs off of Jurrjens and a third off of Jo-Jo Reyes (Reyes also had a two-inning stint). The Braves countered, scoring three runs off of Brandon Lyon in the fifth inning. Hyped Braves prospect Jordan Schafer smacked the first home run of the exhibition season, a seventh-inning solo shot off of Eddie Bonine, who went 12-4 with a 4.15 ERA and 1.18 WHIP with Toledo last season.

The Tigers got the last laugh, though. They tied the game in the bottom of the seventh (lefty Eric O'Flaherty was the victim) and scored the go-ahead run in the eighth off of Braves non-roster invitee Juan Perez.

Kelly Johnson had a double for Atlanta and Manny Acosta and Stephen Marek had scoreless innings. Schafer and Josh Anderson each had a stolen base.

W - Fu-Te Ni (1-0)
L - Juan Perez (0-1)
S - Kyle Bloom (1)
HR - Jordan Schafer (1)

The Professional Hitter

MATT DIAZ
Position: Left Fielder
Bats: Right
Throws: Right
Height: 6'1'
Weight: 203 lbs.
2009 Age: 31

Matt Diaz, who had posted consecutive seasons of averages over .320 (.327, .338) for Atlanta, was given the starting job last season. However, he didn't hit. A knee injury forced him out for most of last year. He has been in a platoon role his entire Braves career (he has an .869 OPS against lefties in six seasons of major league baseball) and that looks to be the reason he should stick around.

My Outlook: It looks like Garret Anderson is going to get the lion's share of the playing time in left field. If Diaz is to be part of the Braves, it will be in either a platoon role with Anderson.

The Victory Lap, Part Deux

TOM GLAVINE
Position: Pitcher
Bats: Left
Throws: Left
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 190 lbs.
2009 Age: 43

The Braves brass (and some Braves fans) got their man; Tom Glavine is going to get a second shot at a victory lap. Last year wasn't unprecedented for the 22-year veteran; his 2-4 record in 13 games was the same record he garnered in 9 games back in 1987, his rookie year.

The soft-tossing control artist suffered a torn flexor tendon in June. After trying to pitch in August, Tom had to shut it down. After surgery to repair that and clear some problems with his shoulder and impressing Bobby Cox in throwing drills (though that's not a particularly hard thing to do), the Braves chose to bring him back with a one-year deal.

BACK TO THE PAST: Not only is Glavine's 2-4 record from last year identical to his rookie season, but his ERA (5.54) is too.

IT TOOK A WHILE: It took Glavine seven starts before he won his first game. That is the longest such period out of any year in his career.

CAN YOU SPARE A RUN?: Including the start against Washington where he didn't record a single out, Glavine had eight starts where he allowed two runs or less. His record in those starts: 1-1.

My Outlook: Before last season, I was hoping that Glavine would be able to win 10 games and keep his ERA in the 4.00-4.50 range. Now, I'm hoping for one of two extremes:

• Glavine rediscovers some control and has a season that resembles his 2006 or 2007 campiagn.
• Glavine completely flames out and forces the Braves to do what they should have done in the first place: promote Tommy Hanson.

I don't want Glavine to fail, but at the same time, I want what I think is best for the organization. I do not believe Glavine is the best thing for the organization right now. I would like for him to produce like he is the best thing for the organization, though. If he doesn't, kick him to the curb as soon as possible.

The Next Best Thing?

GARRET ANDERSON
Position: Left Fielder
Bats: Left
Throws: Left
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 190 lbs.
2009 Age: 37

Unsatisfied with their lot in the outfield and still smarting from being spurned by Ken Griffey, Jr., the Braves signed former Angel Garrett Anderson to a one-year deal.

Anderson is a professional batter at this point in his career. He has never been one to take a free pass (his career high in walks is 38), and he has only struck out more than 90 times in a season two times; therefore, he's a man who puts the ball in play. One may say he's what Juan Pierre would be if he could hit some doubles and homers. I'm spinning that as being a compliment as much as I possibly can.

BABIP TELLS ALL: Anderson's BABIP (batting average with balls in play) the last three seasons:

2006: .308
2007: .306
2008: .314

This means that it's a good bet that Anderson will bat in the high .280s to low .290s for the Braves in 2009 given the same amount of playing time and good health.

GOOD WITH THE GAME ON THE LINE: Anderson's Late & Close stats were exemplary last season, including his walk totals:

102 PA, .371/.441/.528, 4 HR, 19 RBI, 12 BB

About 41% of his walks came in Late & Close situations.

My Outlook: Anderson gives the Braves the veteran outfield bat they coveted, but can he keep up his batting average and remain slump-free in a new organization and league? If he still has something left in the tank, he should. I don't know whether he'll continue to regress in the power department, but I do believe he'll keep his batting average from .280-.295 most of the year.

Braves Land Garret Anderson For Left Field Position

The Atlanta Braves, about four days after Ken Griffey, Jr. opted to return to Seattle, signed free agent Garret Anderson to a one-year deal, reported to be worth $2.5 million.

Anderson will form a platoon in left field with Matt Diaz. He has a contact approach at the plate similar to Josh Anderson's; he only had 29 walks last year, but he hit .295. He seems to have a little power left, but only playing time will show if he's done.

Glavine Returning To Braves

Tom Glavine and the Atlanta Braves have agreed on a one-year contract with a $1 million base salary.

According to Ken Rosenthal of FOXSports.com, Glavine's contract is set up so that he makes money for being on the team:

• Base salary - $1 million
• One day on the active roster - $1 million
• Thirty days on the active roster - $1.25 million
• Ninety days on the active roster - $1.25 million

I'm not fully sure what this indicates. It's possible that Glavine could have to fight Charlie Morton, Jo-Jo Reyes, Jorge Campillo and Tommy Hanson for the fifth spot in the Braves rotation. It's a small possibility though. I'm almost certain that Glavine is going to be handed the spot because he's TOM GLAVINE.

I hope upon hope that Glavine makes the most of his final opportunity with the Braves. I have a hard time believing that he'll even reach 10 wins, though. Best of luck, Tommy. We'll see #47 beside #44 quite soon.

Now Applying For Atlanta LOOGY...

JEFF RIDGWAY
Position: Pitcher
Bats: Right
Throws: Left
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 210 lbs.
2009 Age: 28

Ridgway, obtained in a trade with the Tampa Bay that sent Willy Aybar and Chase Fontaine to the Rays, is in line to compete for a spot in the Braves bullpen.

Braves fans may associate him with the 189.00 ERA (2 ERA+) he posted in 1/3 inning with the Devil Rays in 2007. They may also lament the fact that Aybar became a valuable bench player to the Rays in their march to the AL pennant last season.

Ridgway is an overhand-motion lefty with a deceptive delivery; he hides the ball well against left-handers.

UBER-SUPER-DUPER-EXTREMELY UNLUCKY: Ridgway sported a 5.47 ERA in 52 2/3 innings. However, for his time in Richmond, his FIP was 3.34 and his BABIP was .418. This indicates that Jeff was very unlucky when he pitched. It's a safe bet to assume that his 5.47 ERA is not normal production from him.

KEEPING IT ON THE GROUND: Against left-handers, Ridgway induced ground balls more than 60% of the time.

My Outlook: Ridgway has a battle for the lefty specialist job lined up in spring. He has a very strong chance to beat out Boone Logan and Eric O'Flaherty for the job. If he does get the job, Braves fans will be quick to forget about the LOOGY woes from last year.

Griffey Picks Seattle, Allegedly Upset Over Story

After a hectic five days, Griffey has decided to re-sign with the Seattle Mariners.

He was allegedly upset over a report by David O'Brien and Terrence Moore of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that said he told a friend he was going to pick the Braves:

The Braves’ star power is set to rise as Ken Griffey Jr. has decided to play for the Braves, a person close to the veteran outfielder and familiar with the negotiations told the Journal-Constitution.

...

The Braves and Griffey’s agent denied a deal had been struck, and Wren said the team would have no announcement Tuesday. The Seattle Times later also reported that Griffey had chosen the Braves over the Mariners.

So it's clear that O'Brien and Moore jumped the gun on this story. Whether this swayed Junior's decision to join his former team may never be known. I don't believe that it really influenced his decision that much; it would take a very thin-skinned person to get so upset at a premature story that he'd back out of a deal.

This leaves the Braves essentially with three viable options for the outfield:

• Sign free agent Garrett Anderson.
• Trade with the New York Yankees for either Nick Swisher or Xavier Nady.
• Plug young outfielder Brandon Jones into the lineup to platoon with Matt Diaz.

If the Braves still have a little money to throw around, I'd go with option one because it won't cost any prospects. Option three is a last resort, but it would prove whether or not Brandon Jones is going to develop into a major league player.

The Kid Who Is Not So Much A Kid Anymore Talking With Braves

Braves are said to be talking to free agent Ken Griffey, Jr.

Signing him may actually be a good idea.

At this point in his career, Griffey is probably a good drawing card and he would put a few extra butts in the seats in Atlanta. Lord knows that they need as many Braves fans at the park as they can get.

He had an average season last year: .249/.353/.424, 18 HR, 71 RBI, 78 BB, 89 SO, 101 OPS+. That could indicate that he has some production left in the tank. The Braves' best outfielder last season was Greg Norton:

Norton w/Braves, 2008: .246/.361/.427, 7 HR, 31 RBI, 27 R, 31 BB, 40 SO, 108 OPS+

He played 25 games in left, so we can call him an outfielder.

If the Braves end up signing Griffey, I'm not going to be upset. Griffey would only be holding back Brandon Jones and Jordan Schafer, who would spend time in Richmond while Diaz platoons with Griffey. Gregor Blanco or Josh Anderson would man center until the brass deems Schafer ready for the majors.

The Braves' Own Juan Pierre (Except With A Few More Ks)

JOSH ANDERSON
Position: Center Field
Bats: Left
Throws: Right
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 195 lbs.
2009 Age: 26

Josh Anderson was obtained after the 2007 season by the Braves in a straight up trade for reliever Oscar Villarreal. It's safe to say that the Braves have gotten more value out of that particular trade. However, it doesn't mean much.

Anderson played in center field in 30 games last season, and spent six in left field. He broke into the lineup for good on August 28 after a few games of some starts and coming off the bench. Anderson is another slap-hitter, like Gregor Blanco. Unfortunately, he doesn't have any of his teammate's base-on-balls prowess. He does have much more speed, though, and can create a little havoc on the basepaths. However, he needs to be able to get hits to get on base. If he doesn't change his approach when he's slumping, he won't be on base to create said havoc.

HE IS A BASE SWIPER: In 61 games, Anderson stole 10 bases and was caught only once. The catcher who threw him out? The Nationals' Luke Montz, one of the five receivers to be behind the plate for the team.

BLANCO OR ANDERSON?: They're both slap-hitters. Blanco alledgely has speed. So what's the difference?

Blanco: 519 PA, .251/.366/.309, 14 2B, 4 3B, 1 HR, 38 RBI, 74 BB, 89 SO, 13-5 SB-CS, 52 R
Anderson: 146 PA, .294/.338/.426, 7 2B, 1 3B, 3 HR, 12 RBI, 8 BB, 33 SO, 10-1 SB-CS, 21 R

Anderson bats better, but Blanco has more patience. It could be that their productions might have equal value given the same playing time. However, if they're the ones playing in the Braves' outfield together, the team is in trouble.

My Outlook: Anderson has the inside track to the starting center field job because of his previous major league experience with the club. However, if he makes the team, he has to keep his production levels up; Jordan Schafer is breathing down his neck. I expect Schafer to replace Anderson at some point in the season. If that happens, it's unclear whether the Braves would demote Anderson or keep him around to be a fourth or fifth outfielder.

The Best Walking Slap-Hitter Ever!

GREGOR BLANCO
Position: Left Fielder
Bats: Left
Throws: Left
Height: 5'11"
Weight: 170 lbs.
2009 Age: 25

For someone who Bobby inserted into the lineup after Bobby Cox lost faith in Matt Diaz being an everyday player, Blanco didn't do too bad. :) He first emerged as a platoon partner for Diaz. However, he was inserted as the full-time center fielder after Mark Kotsay injured his back. Blanco platooned with Omar Infante after Kotsay returned to the lineup.

Blanco is a bit of an anomaly. He's a slap-hitter with very little power. However, his walk totals make him valuable. This may mean he has a role on the team next year. He's only a mediocre defender and doesn't run the bases well, as evidenced by his weak stolen base totals despite his raw speed.

HE'S GOT SOME PATIENCE: Out of every player in baseball history with an 81 OPS+, Blanco had the most walks (74) since Walt Weiss, who had 79 with Florida in 1993. Blanco is sixth overall on the list.

BIG WALKER: Last season, Blanco was second on the Braves in walks (74). Chipper Jones lead the team with 90 free passes.

BLANCO AND WEISS:: Continuing on the first point, Weiss's 1993 season and Blanco's 2008 season were remarkably similar:

Walt Weiss, 1993: 591 PA, .266/.367/.308, 14 2B, 2 SB, 1 HR, 39 RBI, 79 BB, 73 SO
Gregor Blanco, 2008: 514 PA, .251/.366/.309, 14 2B, 4 3B, 1 HR, 38 RBI, 74 BB, 99 SO

My Outlook: If the Braves don't trade for Nick Swisher or Xavier Nady, Blanco may have to fight Brandon Jones and Josh Anderson for a spot in the Braves outfield. He does have the most experience, so he does have an edge. If he makes the team, look for him to continue to provide walks and nothing else.

For The Last Time, It's Spelled With A "Z"!

JAVIER VAZQUEZ
Position: Pitcher
Bats: Right
Throws: Right
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 195 lbs.
2009 Age: 32

Vazquez made national news last season, but it wasn't for anything he did on the mound. It was in conjunction with comments made about him by White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen:

''He hasn't been," Guillen said Sunday of Vazquez as a big-game pitcher, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. "That's the bottom line.''

''What you see is what you get,'' Guillen said of Vazquez. ''Javy is going to be Javy. I just want him to be aggressive, throw the ball over the plate and knock somebody on their [butt]. That's a big three games for us.

''You have to be mean. Go out there and show them we show up to play, show up to kick your guys' [butts]. And believe me, that will take care of itself."

It's one thing to try to use reverse psychology on a pitcher, but it's a questionable tactic to do it in the media. Predictably, Vazquez went out and lost that particular game to the Twins, giving up five runs in four innings of work. Vazquez won't face any psychological games like that in Atlanta.

Vazquez throws an 89-94 mph fastball, a curve, a biting slider, and a circle-change. He likes to nibble the corners a lot; that seems to be a trademark of many Braves pitchers.

HOPEFULLY HE SIGNS WITH ATLANTA OR AN AL TEAM...: Current free agent Bobby Abreu has the most career home runs hit off of Javier Vazquez: nine.

LOTS OF K'S /= A WIN?: Javier Vazquez struck out 9 or 10 batters in seven games last season. His record in those games: 2-5.

ONE OF THE KINGS OF K'S: In his career period of 1999-2008, Vazquez is third in total strikeouts with 1,876 punchouts. Only Pedro Martinez (1,896) and Randy Johnson (2,460) are ahead of him.

My Outlook: I expect Vazquez to do what he does best: eat innings and strike out some people. The wins should come; I think the Braves may have a good offense when the team is set for the season. Plus, moving into a neutral park from a hitter's park should help him a little bit.

The Cobra's Ready To Strike

MIKE GONZALEZ
Position: Pitcher
Bats: Right
Throws: Left
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 213 lbs.
2009 Age: 31

The Cobra is ready to pitch a full season now. It will be fully appreciated by the Braves.

Last season, Gonzalez started the year still on the mend from Tommy John surgery. The Braves tried a lot of pitchers at closer, including Peter Moylan, Rafael Soriano, Jeff Bennett and Manny Acosta. Gonzalez finally returned on June 18, pitching a scoreless inning against the Rangers. He continued to serve as the Braves' closer, going 14-16 in save opportunities.

THE STREAK IS OVER: Gonzalez blew the save against Colorado on September 9 thanks to Garrett Atkins. That was Gonzalez's first blown save since June 25, 2004 against Cincinnati. He converted 38 straight save opportunities over four seasons.

LACK OF SAVES, BUT NOT FOR LACK OF TRYING: When Gonzalez converted his fourth save on July 18th, he became the Braves' team leader in that category. No other Brave had more than three saves up to that point.

HOME NOT SWEET HOME OR FUN WITH SMALL SAMPLE SIZES, PART FIVE: In front of the home crowd in 2008, Gonzalez was pounded a few times. He was 0-2 with six saves, but he had a 7.27 ERA in 17 1/3 innings pitched. He allowed 19 hits and 19 total runs. However, he walked just nine and struck out 30 batters.

My Outlook: As long as Gonzalez can pitch, he will be the Braves' closer. They don't have anyone good enough to replace him. Soriano can't do it very well. Maybe Moylan could, but he has very limited experience in the role. I'm looking forward (and hoping) for a full season from Mike. A final note: If the Braves aren't in contention by July, Gonzalez will most likely be traded.

Ganbate, Kawakami-San!

KENSHIN KAWAKAMI
Position: Pitcher
Bats: Right
Throws: Right
Height: 5'10"
Weight: 198 lbs.
2009 Age: 34

The Braves' first major league Japanese player is a bit of a mystery. No one knows for sure how well he'll do in Major League Baseball. His curve is said to be as good as Roy Oswalt's and he has a fastball that tops out in the low 90s. However, he still needs to adjust to the American baseball, which is larger and not as tightly wound as the Japanese baseball. It could affect the way his pitches break if he doesn't figure it out.

VERY STRONG START: Kawakami won the Rookie of the Year Award in 1998. He finished third in the league in wins (14), second in ERA (2.57), third in strikeouts (124), second in WHIP (1.08) and tied with the league lead in shutouts (3).

HE HAS BEEN WITH A FEW WINNERS: Kawakami helped the Chunichi Dragons to the Central League title in 1999, 2006, and 2007. The Dragons won the Japan Series title in 2007; it was their first such title in 53 years.

NO-NONI KENSHIN: (If you can stomach my attempt at a horrible pun, continue to read. For those of you who don't get it, continue to read as well.) Kawakami tossed a no-hitter on August 1, 2002 against the Yomiuri Giants in Tokyo, striking out 11 batters.

My Outlook: It all depends on whether or not Kawakami adjusts to the American baseball and style of play. If he does, expect him to be an optimal middle-of-the-rotation starter. If he doesn't get used to the American baseball or style of play, he'll become another Kei Igawa. Let's hope it's the former.

With Lots To Prove, He Wants To Prove

CASEY KOTCHMAN
Position: First Baseman
Bats: Left
Throws: Left
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 210 lbs.
2009 Age: 26

On July 29, 2008, the Braves traded soon-to-be free agent Mark Teixeira to the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim for two players. One was pitching prospect Stephen Marek, and the other was first baseman Casey Kotchman. Once regarded as the Angels' top prospect, Kotchman has yet to live up to his 20-25 homer potential, though.

After he was traded to the Braves, Kotchman had a very hard time adjusting. He brought his glove, but not his bat, hitting just .157/.259/.214 with no homers and five RBIs in his first 20 games as a Brave. He was put on the bereavement list for a few weeks because his mother was suffering from an illness. That, and the transition to a totally new organization, may have been affecting his play.

Kotchman has first base all to himself; there is no immediate threat to usurp him from the job. Still, it's up to him to produce to keep the job. As long as he is able to hit to all fields and put the ball in play like he can, he'll be the Braves first baseman for this year, and maybe the next.

AWFUL AUGUST: In his first month as a Brave, Kotchman dealt with a lot of issues, finishing with a .180/.292/.246 line, with no home runs and five RBIs. Those were garnered in his first 20 games, as mentioned above.

OLD PROMISE: In 2005, Baseball America called Kotchman the top prospect in the Angels organization and was sixth-best in the country, according to editors John Manuel and Jim Callis.

HIGH LEVERAGE LEADER: In "high leverage" situations last season, Kotchman batted .340/.362/.520 with four homers and 38 RBIs.

My Outlook: September of 2008 showed that Kotchman was able to hit more like he was "supposed" to. If he can keep his production around or just below those numbers, he should be productive.

The Second Baseman They Don't Want At Second

KELLY JOHNSON
Position: Second Base
Bats: Left
Throws: Right
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 205 lbs.
2009 Age: 27

Johnson's name kept popping up in trade rumors in the 2008 off-season; at one point, he was rumored to be traded to St. Louis straight up for outfielder Ryan Ludwick. It was also rumored that he would be moved to left if the Braves had signed Rafael Furcal or traded for Brian Robets. As it stands, Johnson will remain at second, and he should.

At the dish, Johnson continued to be streaky. His selective approach at the plate allowed him to garner 52 walks. but he also missed a lot, striking out 113 times. That's not a bad thing, necessarily, but his OBP dropped from .375 to .349. That may have been due to the fact that he was batting in the lower end of the order, but it may be a slight concern.

His defense, though much maligned, isn't that bad; his RF was 4.77 (4.07) and RF9 was 5.16 (4.83). His only problem seems to be the backhand going to his right. Kelly's position as the Atlanta second sacker is secure. For now.

SIZZLING SEPTEMBER, OR FUN WITH SMALL SAMPLE SIZES, PART FOUR: Johnson smacked pitchers around in the last month of the season, going .398/.429/.643 with three homers and 19 RBIs. That was his best RBI month by five.

TABLE SETTER: When he's the first batter in an inning, and that occurred 133 times last season, Kelly .314/.391/.458 with 11 doubles and two homers. He scored 26 runs as well.

HE LIKES PICKING AND CHOOSING: In all of Kelly's three ball counts (120 PAs), Kelly batted just .192 (13-68), but he had 52 walks in those counts, making his OBP .542.

LUCKY AGAINST LEFTIES: Last season, Kelly batted .333/.366/.433 against lefties in 165 PAs. However, it may have been mostly luck; his BABIP (Batting average with balls in play) was .398.

My Outlook: Johnson has made a bumpy, but successful transition to second base. In just his second year, he has firmly set himself in the middle-tier of second basemen in the National League. He will continue that this year, easily.

No Sophomore Slump From Him?

JAIR JURRJENS
Position: Pitcher
Bats: Right
Throws: Right
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 160 lbs.
2009 Age: 23

Acquired from the Detroit Tigers before the 2008 season, Jurrjens was immediately plugged into the rotation and showed that he had excellent command. He works with a four-seam fastball, a two-seam, change-up and slurve. Jurrjens started out strong in the first half, going 9-6 with a 3.00 ERA, but seemed to regress in the second half, going 4-6 with a 4.46 ERA. It may have had something to do with this being his first full season (188 1/3 IP a career high) and being a little unlucky (.307 BABIP, .280 league average). It's essential to the Braves rotation that Jurrjens becomes a vital cog.

THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE THE ROAD: Jurrjens had eight home starts in the second half where he allowed four runs or more (2-4).

NO JUNE SWOON: In four games, Jurrjens was 3-0 with a 1.63 ERA. He walked just 7 batters and allowed just eight runs, five earned.

MAYBE HE STILL LIKES THE AL?: In three interleague games last season, Jurrjens had a 0.00 ERA, but went 1-0. The reason? He allowed five unearned runs.

PART THREE OF FUN WITH SMALL SAMPLE SIZES: Jurrjens seemed to work best with Corky Miller, if that's possible. In the three games that Jurrjens pitched with Miller behind the plate,

My Outlook: Jurrjens has to go out and practically prove himself all over again. He'll succeed at that and then some. Expect him to pitch like a #2 starter for most of the year and act like an ace on several occasions.

I May As Well Get Him Over With...

JEFF FRANCOEUR
Position: Right Fielder
Bats: Right
Throws: Right
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 220 lbs.
2009 Age: 26

It has been a crazy three and a half years. There has been a lot of promise. There has been a lot of frustration. There has been a lot of anger. There has been a lot of booing. There has been a lot of forgiving. There has been a lot of lowered expectations.

Get ready for another go-around of that this year.

Francoeur put up the worst year of his career in 2008; he hit career lows in batting average, slugging and home runs. His on-base percentage was only .001 better than his career-worst .293 in 2006.

Truncating his season was a four-day stint in AA Mississippi. He infamously felt "betrayed" by that demotion. When he was called back up after four days, everyone questioned his return, including me. The four days of beating up on pitchers he should beat up certainly didn't help him perform any better:

.234/.287/.374 before the demotion.
.242/.303/.340 after his return.

Francoeur has attempted to make changes though: he's trying a new stance:

After nonstop tinkering last summer, Francoeur has locked into one approach he thinks will work. Using some advice and video recommended by former Braves Mark DeRosa and Mark Teixeira, Francoeur adopted a more balanced position at the plate, with his hands farther back and a shorter stride. He’s been working it into his muscle memory, hitting four times a week since Nov. 15.

Chipper Jones likes the look of what Francoeur has been doing at Jones’ indoor hitting facility in Suwanee. “His weight distribution is right where it needs to be and his mindset is right where it needs to be,” Jones said. “His mindset is from gap to gap. You can’t be out on your front foot the way he was all year last year, and head moving up and down, and his stride was too long, and thinking about pulling the ball around the left field foul pole. His weight distribution is allowing him to think right center to left center and he is killing balls, just absolutely crushing it."

Hopefully, he keeps with it and that translates to results in real baseball. We're all counting on him.

SOME HOMERS IS BETTER THAN NO HOMERS: Franocuer is 6th in Braves history for home runs by batters from their Age 21 to Age 24 seasons. He has 73 home runs so far in his career. That's six less than Dale Murphy and three more than Brain McCann in the same period.

ON THE FLIP SIDE: In the same age range, with a minimum of 2000 PAs, the only Brave that has a lower OBP than Francoeur does (.312) is Rabbitt Maranville (.310), a light-hitting shortstop that had two stints with the Braves franchise.

NATIONAL PRIDE: The game of Francoeur's career was on April 12, 2008, when he torched Nationals pitching for two homers and a two-run single. The 3-run and 2-run taters gave him seven RBIs on the day; a career high.

THE CLUTCH BAG WAS EMPTY, OR PART TWO OF FUN WITH SMALL SAMPLE SIZES: Francoeur was abysmal in 2008 with runners in scoring position, in general:

RISP: 203 PA, .192/.276/.316, 34-177, 6 2B, 2 3B, 4 HR, 59 RBI
2 outs, RISP: 89 PA, .175/.258/.238, 14-80, 3 2B, 1 3B, 0 HR, 19 RBI
Bases loaded: 34 PA, .182/.206/.242, 6-33, 2 2B, 0 3B, 0 HR, 17 RBI

My Outlook: I have none. It's virtually impossible to tell what Francoeur will do this season. All any Braves fan can do is have faith that Jeff can put a decent season together. If there is more failure, that faith may be dashed completely.

So Good Jake Peavy Didn't Want To Be Traded For Him

YUNEL ESCOBAR
Position: Shortstop
Bats: Right
Throws: Right
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 200 lbs.
2009 Age: 26

In his first full season as Atlanta's shortstop, Escobar had a season that somewhat met expectations. His slugging dropped from .451 to .401 with 232 more plate appearances; he hit one less double as well (25 to 24). Thus, his batting consists mainly of singles. His fielding is average compared to the rest of the league, but his arm is one of the strongest in all of baseball.

HOTHEAD?: Escobar has earned a reputation for wearing his heart on his sleeve and voicing his displeasure with calls. Vehemently. Whether that will affect him with umpires in the future remains to be seen.

YUNEL'S FAVORITE NUMBERS: 3 AND 0: Last season, Escobar had 19 3-0 counts. His line on that count: 1-1, HR, 3 RBI, 18 BB. Four of those walks were intentional and the home run was a walk-off shot that defeated the Marlins on June 2nd.

STRONG SEASONS (OR WEAK HISTORY): For all Braves shorstops with at least 300 PAs in a season, Escobar has the ninth and 25th highest OPSes in a season. His OPS+ totals from those same seasons are 11th and 32nd in Braves shortstop history as well.

My Outlook: Escobar should provide more of the same production as last season. Maybe he'll hit a few more doubles. That would be an easy way to step up his game. If he does, he'll move into the lower-upper tier of shortstops. As for now, he's in the middle-tier.

The Great Stabilizer?

DEREK LOWE
Position: Pitcher
Bats: R
Throws: R
Height: 6'6"
Weight: 170 lbs.
2009 Age: 36

2008 Stats
34 GS
211 IP
194 H
84 R
76 ER
14 HR
45 BB
1.92 BB/9
147 K
6.27 K/9
3.24 ERA
131 ERA+

After being denied the opportunity to have A. J. Burnett in their starting rotation, the Braves opted to sign the 36-year old Lowe to a four-year contract. Lowe's a well-known sinkerballer. He also has a curve, change and a cut fastball. He seems to be Atlanta's type of pitcher; a control guy who gives up few walks and allows lots of ground balls. He duplicated his career high in strikeouts last season (147) and had his lowest ERA since 2002 as well (3.24). The move from Dodgers Stadium, a notorious pitcher's park, to Turner Field, a neutral park, shouldn't hurt him.

BOY, I'M GLAD HE'S ON OUR TEAM NOW: Lowe had two starts against the Braves last season. In the first start, which came in Atlanta, he was shredded for five runs, three earned, in 4 1/3 innings. His second start was much better; he went 7 2/3 innings, allowing just two hits and one run as the Dodgers won 2-1.

UNLUCKY LOWE: In 9 no-decisions last season, Lowe went 52 1/3 innings and allowed just 19 runs (18 earned). He walked 13 batters and struck out 41 of them.

DURABLE DEREK: Since he became a starter in 2002, Lowe has the ninth-most innings pitched in all of baseball: 1456 IP. Mark Buehrle of the Chicago White Sox has the most in that period (1575 IP).

My Outlook: Lowe says for Braves fans to expect big things from him. All I expect from him is to do his job. Keep the ball on the ground and don't walk anybody. If he does those things, and I think he will, those expectations should be met.

Reserve A Spot In The Upper Deck For His Number Right Now!

CHIPPER JONES
Position: Third Base
Bats: S
Throws: R
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 185 lbs.
2009 Age: 37

2008 Stats:
534 PAs
.364/.470/.574
82 R
160 H
24 2B
1 3B
22 HR
75 RBI
90 BB
61 SO
174 OPS+

Larry Wayne "Chipper" Jones further cemented his place in Atlanta Braves history. Despite near-constant battles with lingering injuries, Jones earned the National League titles for batting average and on-base percentage. His 174 OPS+ (adjusted OPS) was also a career high.

CHIPPER AND SKATES: Jones is the ninth player in Braves franchise history to lead the NL in on-base percentage. He's the first Brave since Lonnie Smith to do it. "Skates" paced the Senior Circuit in OBP in 1989 (.415).

ALL-STAR AGAIN: Chipper was elected to start the All-Star Game for the first time in seven years; it was his sixth career All-Star Game and fourth career start.

BRINGING THE STICK: On his way to the batting title, Chipper was chasing .400 for most of the year. He was up to .421 as late as June 6th, but he dipped below the .400 level on June 19th for good. His .364 average was the highest by a Brave since Rico Carty's league-leading .366 average in 1970.

PRESIDENTIAL POWER: Chipper hit the first home run in Nationals Park history... while President George W. Bush was in the ESPN booth chatting with announcers Joe Morgan and Jon Miller.

A TRUE LEADER(BOARD): Chipper ranks in the top 10 in many categories in Braves franchise history:

Games: 2023 (3rd, 200 behind Eddie Mathews)
At Bats: 7337 (3rd, 712 behind Mathews)
Plate Appearances: 8677 (3rd, 856 behind Mathews)
Batting Average: .310 (7th, tied with Hank Aaron, .001 behind Lance Richbourg)
On Base Percentage: .408 (2nd, .048 behind Billy Hamilton)
Slugging Average: .548 (2nd, .019 behind Aaron)
OPS: .956 (1st, .012 ahead of Aaron)
Runs: 1378 (3rd, 74 behind Mathews)
Hits: 2277 (2nd, 1323 behind Aaron)
Doubles: 449 (2nd, 151 behind Aaron)
Home Runs: 408 (3rd, 85 behind Mathews)
RBI: 1374 (3rd, 14 behind Mathews)
BB: 1242 (3rd, 55 behind Aaron)
SO: 1142 (5th, 152 behind Aaron)
Total Bases: 4020 (3rd, 138 behind Mathews)
OPS+: 145 (2nd, tied with Mathews, 13 behind Aaron)

My Outlook: Chipper has a tough act to follow, but as long as he can stay on the field, he'll produce. It's hard to say whether or not he'll approach 30 homers or 100 RBIs next season. I wouldn't bet on the homers, but I expect his doubles amount to rise from the 24 he hit last season.

BRAVES PLAYER PROFILES - Leading Off

BRIAN McCANN
Position: Catcher
Bats: L
Throws: R
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 210 lbs.
2009 Age: 25

2008 Stats:
573 PAs
.301/.373/.523
68 R
153 H
42 2B
1 3B
23 HR
87 RBI
57 BB
64 SO
134 OPS+

Brian Michael McCann is simply one of the best catchers in Major League Baseball, and that's because of his bat. When he's at the plate, Brian uses a short stroke through the strike zone to drive the ball to center and right. McCann lacks agility defensively, but he's not inept there. One could call him a "sound defender" and get away with it.

McCANN IS THE MAN: Last season, Brian led all catchers with 42 doubles and tied for the home run lead with NL Rookie of the Year backstop Geovany Soto (23).

BETTER LATE THAN NEVER: McCann got into the All-Star Game last year... in the 15th inning as a defensive replacement. Russell Martin had played from the 5th to the 14th inning. Unfortunately, the game ended when Justin Morneau beat McCann's tag to score on Michael Young's fly ball as the AL won 4-3.

ALL-STAR STREAK: McCann is the first Braves catcher to make three NL All-Star teams in a row since Joe Torre (1964-67). Del Crandall also made four All-Star teams a in row (1953-56).

PHILLIE KILLER (OR PART 1 OF FUN WITH SMALL SAMPLE SIZES): In 18 games against the Braves' NL East rival, McCann batted .356/.472/.678 with three homers, 17 RBIs and 12 walks. He especially liked to face Jamie Moyer, Cole Hamels, and Brett Myers

Moyer: 20 PAs, .444/.500/.722 - 8-18, 2 2B, 1 HR, 6 RBI
Hamels: 25 PAs, .381/.480/.619 - 8-21, 5 2B, 5 RBI
Myers, 29 PAs, .370/.414/.640 - 10-27, 4 2B, 1 HR, 6 RBI

A TRIPLE? WELL, MAYBE JUST ONE...: McCann has one triple in his career. It came off of Doug Waechter of the Florida Marlins on April 24, 2008. It came leading off the bottom of the eighth inning. Jeff Francoeur drove him in with a sacrifice fly.

My Outlook: Expect more of the same out of him this year. 140 games, .300 average, 35 doubles, 20 homers as a base. He's very capable of reaching those benchmarks.

Braves Agree To Contract With Lowe

BRAVES SIGN:
P Derek Lowe

He's the de facto ace the Braves have been searching for. It's not much, but it's something.

David O'Brien of the AJC reports that the Braves have agreed to a four-year, $60 million contract with 36-year old starter Derek Lowe. The deal would be announced after Lowe passes a physical.

Lowe pitched last season with the Dodgers. He was 14-11 with a 3.24 ERA (131 ERA+) in 34 games and 211 innings of work. He matched his career high of strikeouts (147), set in 2007, and had a career-low in walks since he became a full-time starter (45).

I certainly hope that Lowe is up to pitching the next four years, because he's going to be doing a lot of it. The Braves are counting on him, and so are us fans. If Lowe can continue his recent pitching trends, he should succeed in Atlanta's neutral Turner Field. The amount of money bugs me a little bit, but such is today's salary climate. Welcome to Atlanta, Derek.

SIGNING GRADE: B-

EDIT: Made it look like my other posts.

Braves Keep Bench Together, Sign Infante

BRAVES SIGN:
IF-LF Omar Infante

Utilityman Omar Infante has signed a two-year extension with the Atlanta Braves with an option for a third year. Infante batted .293/.338/.416 with three home runs in 348 PAs. His 40 RBIs were the most in three years for him.

Due to injuries, Infante started in five different positions, including third base, left field, shortstop and second base. In 14 pinch-hit appearances, Infante had just two hits. He walked once and hit two sacrifice flies.

His primary job will be to fill in for Chipper Jones when he has his yearly injuries. He will most-likely continue to fill in for Yunel Escobar and Gregor Blanco as well.

This move really doesn't do anything more than keep the bench stable. There is value in that, however. It's a very good move.

SIGNING GRADE: A-

EDIT: Added title.
SECOND EDIT: Made it look like my other posts by adding the "BRAVES SIGN" up at the top.

Braves Reach Deal With Former Sawamura Award Winner Kawakami

BRAVES SIGN:
P Kenshin Kawakami

At long last, the Braves have reached an agreement with a pitcher!

Atlanta has reached a deal with former Chunichi Dragons pitcher Kenshin Kawakami. A physical will be conducted in Atlanta and the deal would be finalized next week.

I'm really excited about this signing; I can't wait to see what Kawakami can do over here in the United States. He's said to be a "crafty" veteran pitcher, with a fastball that tops in the low 90s, a slow curve and a good cut fastball.

Kawakami has had a distinguished NPB career:

• Won Rookie of the Year in 1998, going 14-6 with a 2.57 ERA, striking out 124 batters in 161 1/3 innings.
• Put up a career-low 2.35 ERA in 2002.
• Won the Sawamura Award in 2004, the Japanese equivalent of the Cy Young Award, and the Central League MVP. His record was 17-7, and he sported a 3.32 ERA in 192 1/3 innings. He struck out 176 batters.
• Duplicated his 17-7 record in 2006 and finished with a 2.51 ERA and a career-high strikeout total of 194 in 215 innings.
• Was a member of the 2007 Chunichi Dragons team that won the Japan Series, their first such title since 1954.

If Kawakami makes a successful transition to Major League Baseball, the Braves will have a crucial piece to improving the performance (and image) of their club. It's a calculated risk that I'm glad the Braves were willing to take. Welcome to the Braves, Kawakami-san!

SIGNING GRADE: B

The grade takes the risk factor into account. I believe it's that significant.

EDIT: Added my opinion and grade.
SECOND EDIT: Made it look like the rest of my posts.