text: Celebrity pictures of the day 14th AprilIts a big thumbs up to all you Metro.co.uk readers from Katie Price and Leandro PennaShe falls off a piano then promptly gets back on. True pro. Lady Gaga poses on top of a piano in Harper's Bazaar (Terry Richardson/Harper's Bazaar)Is that an engagement ring miss Katie or just bling bling?Pucker up love: Lauren Pope Kirk NorcrossVajazzle me: Mark Wright the face and official expert of Towie (The Only Way is Essex) Vajazzle Body Art Crystals at Signor Sassi in London.Courtney Cox looking hot in the little Black numberFergieAlex Reid Gareth GatesDoggie love: Caprice out on the town. Anthony Head at the official opening of 'The Dragon Tower' at Warwick CastleGet a room Hoff: David Hasselhoff kissing his girlfriend. Scary: Pregnant Melanie Brown aka Mel B shows her bump at Mo Tai restaurantColl down boy: Jenny Frost leaving Liz McLarnon's birthday party at Shaka Zulu Restaurant while throwing her beer over a friend. Nice. Leggy: Samantha Fox leaving Liz McLarnon's birthday partySexy: A bubbly Hayden Panettiere guests on TV's "Extra" at the Grove in Los Angeles


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"Live amongst people in such a manner that if you die they weep over you and if you are alive they crave for your company."
-Imam Ali
"ما رایت الا جمیلا"
The best of my community are those who spend away their youth in Allah's obedience, wean themselves away from the worldly pleasures and are infatuated with the Hereafter. Surely their reward upon Allah is the highest levels of Paradise.

subset: commoncrawl


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There he was again, left on the outside looking into his home where his wife and children were. However, he wasn't allowed to enter. He had come home intoxicated yet again and this time, he was afraid, his wife really meant what she said when she said she was leaving him. He looked on through the Washington rain and his face was wet, but more from his tears than from the rain. He had to do something quickly…
Fortunately, for my friend, Milt, this story has a happy ending. It is with his permission that I write this article. I feel it a blessing to have been a witness to God's gracious hand in the life of my friend, Milton Bridges.
The story from my perspective starts in early 2013 when the Mormon sister missionaries met Milt's wife and started teaching her. I participated frequently in teaching her. She always had a very kind and sincere heart, but it wasn't until she began seriously studying the Book of Mormon that her heart fully turned to the Savior and she converted to the gospel in May. She had a desire to give away the ways of the world completely and follow Jesus and she was baptized into the Church of Jesus Christ.
She was very happy with her new faith and what it could mean to her family. The only problem was that her husband, Milt, wasn't ready to give up his addiction to alcohol. It was in later that summer that Milt came home intoxicated for the last time.
Milt had become a friend of mine through the process of getting to know April and also as he would come and play basketball with us at the church. All of us who played ball grew to love Milt and looked forward to him coming. Sometimes, he would be a little inebriated and we could definitely smell the alcohol, but he was always welcome to come and play and we loved him.
When I received the phone call after Milt had broken down and been kicked out of his home for what he feared was the last time to see them, my heart was sad for him, but I was very happy that he had hit the bottom. This meant he was truly ready to change. He was humble and yearned for a miracle. It is at this point, in my experience, that God can work miracles in our lives. Milt asked me to come over and give him a priesthood blessing.
For those of you who are not familiar with priesthood blessings, I'll describe it as best I can.
In the Mormon church, men are given the priesthood authority to act as a mouthpiece of God when called upon when giving a blessing. It is like in the Bible in James 5:14 when he asks if there is anyone who is sick and that if so, they should call upon the elders of the church, who will come and anoint them with oil and pray over them. There are other examples in the Bible of elders coming and "laying their hands" on people to heal them.
When I arrived to Milt's location, he was a very broken man, but he had slim glimmer of hope. This is all that God needed. As I laid my hands on his head, the Holy Spirit moved me on what to say. I can't remember the exact words, but the feeling I had was that if Milt spent time coming closer to God and studying his word and praying, he would be healed from his addiction.
After I gave him the blessing, he thanked me and went to a alcohol rehab center for a month.
We (those of us who were his friends in the Church) all prayed for him every day and occasionally heard from him through limited text messages.
He came out of the center and was clean and didn't want to touch alcohol and hasn't since. It was a miracle!
A few months later he began meeting with the missionaries and decided to be baptized. When I was getting ready to baptize him, he told me that when he was given the blessing a few months earlier, that he felt something come over him and the desire to drink was removed.
The first step in Milt's conversion story was the healing of his alcohol addiction. The next miracle was the healing of his heart and the conversion of his soul to the gospel of Jesus Christ. He had been reading and praying for a few months when he realized that he had a testimony of the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ and wanted to be baptized. He recognized all the blessings his family had received since his wife had joined the Church and he had seen miracles in his own personal life as well.
I considered it an honor when he asked if I could baptize him. I had seen everything he had to go through to get to that point and the new man that he was as he embraced the gospel was indeed a miracle.
The picture I've included is of me, Milt, and the Elders who taught him the lessons prior to his baptism. This is right before I baptized him.
When I see Milt with his two cute little kids and his wife at church, and when I see him passing the sacrament, I am amazed at the miracles that each and every one of us can receive if we open our hearts in humility to the Lord.
Once we are converted, we then help strengthen our brothers. Milt did exactly this and his brother, was also baptized a few weeks later. Below is a picture of Milt, his wife, kids and his brother.
When I see this, the song that comes to mind is one I've heard at other Christian churches "Our God is an Awesome God"!
Recently one of my online friends requested that I write about healing stories within the Mormon faith.
My first thought was to share the traditional stories those of us who have been around the Mormon Church for awhile have all heard. I'm sure there are many bloggers out there who are well more versed on the history of Mormon faith healing and miracles, but for those of you interested, there are quite a few Mormon faith healing stories of the first Mormon prophet, Joseph Smith. Those of you who have stories to share on the history of healing or perhaps a relative who was miraculously healed, please share in the comment section because I know there are a lot of faith healing stories out there which would be beneficial for all of us to hear.
Also, as I researched, I found numerous inspirational stories of faith and healing from Mormons all over the world. For example, the LDS Addictions Recovery website has some amazing testimonials of people who were on the street and totally addicted who turned their will to God and were healed.
Another miraculous healing I recently read in the very inspiring book Let it Go by Chris Williams. This book is about Chris's experience with a drunk driver hitting his family's car. Chris's wife, unborn son, daughter, and one of his sons were instantly killed. His other son was in very critical condition and had brain damage. Doctors thought that he had a very slight chance of survival, and if he did survive, would have permanent brain damage. Chris relates a story of how he felt God's love encircle him and as he laid hands on his son to give him a blessing of healing, he felt God tell him to say his son would be completely healed. Three weeks later, his son was o.k. and released from the hospital.
While all of these examples are awesome, and the Good Lord has shown His hand countless times, I thought that I would share a few personal stories that were very impressive for me at various stages of my life. As I reflect on each of them, I am grateful for God's merciful hand in my life.
I'll start with the story of my sister being brought back to life, then share a personal story of healing within myself, and conclude with a recent story about my wife and our unborn daughter (due this June 20th).
The Day my Sister Died (and lived)
I was seven years old, but that didn't stop my father from granting me my wish to help out on the farm. On this particular day I was busy pulling down a 80 lb hay bales, and rolling them to the feeding trough, cutting the strings and distributing the hay for the yearling calves. I wanted to make sure I was doing my job correctly, so I was very focused on making sure I did as my father had taught me and not clump the hay all in one spot. Rather, spread it out evenly so all the calves could get a good meal.
My focus was suddenly snapped as I heard a shrill screaming shrieking noise that startled me. I wondered what could be making that noise and when I looked a few hundred feet away from where I was it scared me even more. The noise was coming from my father. Tears were streaming down his face and he was running faster than I had ever seen him run in my life. What was even more frightening was my little sister, who was 3 1/2 years old was laying limp and lifeless in his arms. I dropped everything I was doing and ran towards my grandfathers house where I saw my father running.
By the time I entered the pantry my grandmother, grandfather, and father were surrounding my young sister. She was laying in my father's arms limp and they couldn't find a pulse. My grandmother had called for help and in the meantime, grandpa and dad proceeded to give her a blessing.
My father knows more precisely what was said in the blessing, but if I recall it correctly, he commanded her to be healed and promised that she would live a life of service to God. Shortly thereafter, her pulse returned and her stay in the hospital was very short.
She was daddies little girl and always followed him around the farm wherever he went. I've had conversations with him about how proud of her he was and how much he loved his little girl. On that particular day, as he was pulling hay bales down, he didn't realize that she had slipped out of grandpa and grandma's home to follow him. He pulled a line of hay from a stack that was 13 bales high, each bale weighing 80-100 lbs. which came crashing down right on top of her. It was the first healing miracle I witnessed and it made an impression on me that the Lord can and still does work miracles through His faithful servants.
Today, my sister is one of the most dedicated and committed members of our family to the Lord, Jesus Christ as she and her husband serve as pastors and missionaries for a local Foursquare Church. They are also beginning the process of planting a new church. She is a sweet blessing to our family and I thank the Lord that her life was spared at that time. Many times throughout my life she has touched me and moved me to be a better person who is more dedicated to the Lord.
My Blessing of Healing
Those of you who follow this blog know of my struggles I've had in the past with anxiety and depression. Those of you who read my book know how big of a challenge it was for me to overcome anxiety and depression, especially in my personal relationships.
Shortly after I was married to my wife, I was still struggling with sever anxiety. I was traumatized by my parents' divorce at a young age and I still had panic that my wife may leave me or be taken away from me.
A couple weeks after we were married, I was visiting a friend of mine. My wife was on a trip to Taiwan and I was scheduled to go visit her. However, I was in a state of panic wondering if she would still want me knowing I was suffering so much from anxiety, etc. I asked my friend to give me a blessing.
In the blessing, God talked to me through him. I felt words of comfort and he also pronounced a blessing of healing, that I would be freed from anxiety.
Since that time, I have never suffered from a panic attack, which is a miracle given that I had suffered for years prior to that. I feel the Lord's hand in my life as I am a husband and father of two beautiful kids (soon to be three), which leads me to the final story of healing.
Healing for My Wife and Unborn Child
A few months ago my wife told me she was very weak from bleeding. Given that she was about 15 or 16 weeks pregnant, I knew that wasn't a good thing. We had had a miscarriage before so I thought that perhaps this was the case. My mind then went to the "what if" situations of if it was something more that could be wrong with her and she was bleeding internally.
As the blood kept coming, I knew we needed to do something. I called her Dad to see if we could have him come over and watch our kids who were sleeping and then called the hospital and explained the situation. I then had the impression to give her a blessing of healing.
For those of you unfamiliar with the Mormon concept of giving a blessing, I'll try and summarize it. Members of the church who hold the Melchezedek Priesthood have the authority and power to act as the "voice" of God so to speak and give a blessing. Blessings can be given for comfort, or for healing. In the case of healing, we annoint the person receiving the blessing with consecrated oil, place our hands on their head, and then speak the words the Lord gives us. It is a very humbling experience because going into the blessing the person doesn't know what words are going to be given. (Read this article for a more detailed description on blessings).
Before I started speaking the words during the blessing, the Lord's Spirit came over me and I sensed a complete feeling of peace and that everything was going to be fine. I knew in my heart that whatever happened would be the Lord's will and I was prepared to accept it.
When I began speaking, I was impressed to speak the words that she would be healed and the baby would be fine. For a split second I had a bit of doubt seeing how much she had bled (which seemed like much more compared to the miscarriage we had had), but I put the doubt out of my mind and focused on the promptings I received.
Shortly afterwards, her bleeding slowed down and we didn't even need to go into the doctor that evening.
She is now 26 weeks along and we found out we are going to be having a little girl.
Your Stories
These are just a few "Mormon Faith Healing Stories" that I have personally witnessed in my life. I'm positive there are many of you out there who have stories to share. Whether you are Mormon or not, I know that the Lord can and does heal according to His will and the faith of the people receiving and/or giving the healing. I would love if you shared some healing stories you have seen in your life. I think it will be a great blessing to those who read this.
A couple weeks ago I wrote about women holding the priesthood. The discussion turned from women holding the priesthood to a lively discussion on Heavenly Mother. Some of my Evangelical pastor friends who have followed my blog for a few years were shocked and appalled to learn that Mormons were openly discussing this. I think they kind of also felt a "bait and switch" because this is something they hadn't heard of before in my writings, but more importantly isn't mentioned in Mormon books they have such as: The Book of Mormon, A Marvelous Work and a Wonder, Doctrine and Covenants, etc.
The reaction of my friend reminded me of a similar experience I had while I was in Germany on a Mormon mission in the mid 1990s. As a missionary, you always are worried about what a member might say when you bring a potential convert to church with you. There are many strange things out there that prophets have done or said over the years that some members full heartedly believe. You invite people to visit church with the hopes that someone doesn't say something "crazy" and scare them off.
On this particular day, it wasn't a Mormon church member that scared our potential convert off, but a song called "O My Father". Part of the song discusses that there is a Mother in Heaven. When my German friend read that verse he looked like someone had punched him in the gut as he turned and looked at me with a questioning look. Right after the service he ran out the door and we really never saw him again after that.
With this experience in mind, and the fact that the doctrine of a Heavenly Mother isn't official LDS doctrine, I tried to explain that to my non-Mormon friends online.
Other LDS, or Mormon, friends who follow the blog jumped in and shared quite a few recent comments made by Mormon prophets and apostles who discuss us having Heavenly Parents. Even with all of the educating of the doctrine of having a Heavenly Mother, I have the feeling my Evangelical friends are still very uneasy with the concept.
Why Evangelicals are Shocked
I think there is an underlying reason why Evangelicals are shocked to learn of Mormons discussing having a Heavenly Mother, and that is the way Mormons view our relationship to who God is vs. how Evangelicals view our relationship to God.
In the book "How Wide the Divide?", Stephen Robinson states the following about how Mormons view God:
Since Latter-day Saints take seriously and literally the scriptural language about becoming the children of God (Rom 8:16), it makes sense to us that the children will grow up to be like their Father. According to Scripture, God is the Fother of spirits (Heb 12:9). We are his offspring (Acts 17:29), and offspring grow up to be what their parents are…(How Wide the Divide, pg 80)
The Evangelical point of view of man's relationship to God is described by Craig Blomberg in the same book as God being the "Creator" and man being the "creatures". Therefore, God is like the sculptor who sculpts a statue. Although the statue is in the image of a human, the statue does not possess the traits of a human and is a completely different creature.
I believe that Mormons who feel we are the literal offspring of God have this in mind when they discuss having a Heavenly Mother. A very good example of this is the song I mentioned previously, "O My Father". A portion of the song reads:
I had learned to call the Father, Through thy Spirit from on high,
But until the key of knowledge Was restored, I knew not why.
In the heavens are parents single? No, the thought makes reason stare!
Truth is reason, truth eternal tells me I've a mother there.
Mormons take the biblical scripture literally to mean that they are the offspring of God. With that thought in mind, many Mormons assume that it is logical that God has a wife (Heavenly Mother) who conceived our spirits. Evangelicals view man's relationship with God much differently in the sense that God created us and formed us in His image, but we are not literal offspring of God.
If you are not a Mormon, what are your thoughts about the concept of a Heavenly Mother?
If you are a Mormon, why do you think there isn't much discussion surrounding having a Heavenly Mother? Do you consider the concept of having a Heavenly Mother to be speculation, or do you consider it to be an official doctrine?
For me, as a conservative Mormon guy living in Washington state, the 2012 elections were rough in a number of ways, starting from the top down:
- Romney lost the election. I had spent a year volunteering for his campaign and truly thought he had a good chance of winning. He nearly pulled it off, but him losing was like me watching the Seahawks lose in Super Bowl 40. Not fun.
- Washington State legalized marijuana. Not only for medicinal purposes, but also for daily use.
- Gay marriage was passed in our state as well.
All of these things hit me like a tidal wave on election night and I had a hard time sleeping as I considered my children and the hearts of people around me in society. I wondered where we are as a society in putting God first. Obviously, we're not where we need to be and it scared me.
As I saw what my friends and family members where writing about on Facebook the next day, I saw quite often comments such as "I'm moving to a different country" or "I like the idea of living like the Amish do" and "Let's move away from society and have a compound". These were written out of frustration and not in complete seriousness (I hope), but it caused me to think.
Do I want to raise kids in this environment? If not, where and why would we run?
How can I support my new leaders of the country, even though I do not hold the same political views?
What do we do Now?
Other concerned citizens provided great examples of how we should unite as a nation and make the best of the situation. Also, the scriptures have excellent recommendations too.
2 Examples
My first example is Mitt Romney. In his concession speech, he set a very good example of being a gracious person. He discussed his love for country and the people who had supported him. He gave some advice and most importantly, he told Obama that he would pray for him.
When he said this, I was very impressed. This man (Obama) had slandered his (Romney) name up and down and painted him as a beast to the American people for most of 2012. Obama had attacked Romney as a person, not his policies. Romney showed what we as citizens should always remember to do and that is pray for our leaders of the country.
The next example I have is a less-known citizen in my state who was running for Congress. His name is John Koster. I had supported him in the elections as well. I'll quote some of what he said in an email I received from him today:
Like many Americans, I am stunned at the tough night so many on the conservative side had around the country on Tuesday, and that Barack Obama was re-elected as President. Sean Hannity remarked yesterday that he wondered if the "allure and appeal of socialism and redistribution of wealth has taken hold."
I hope he is wrong.
I am equally stunned that we have legalized marijuana right here in our home state of Washington; and if the slim margin favoring the pro Referendum-74 vote holds up, we will have legalized same-sex marriages as well.
It seems obvious to me that we have swung wildly in the wrong political direction and that we are now at a point where our society WILL suffer the consequences inherent with bad law and liberal representation.
Ben Franklin challenged future generations of Americans when he said "we have given you a Republic if you can keep it". To heed Franklin's wise words, it will be important in the coming days that each and every one of us continues to do our part in defending the Republic – as we are likely in for some difficult times!
We must, however, keep the faith and keep our chins up. We must dig down deep and continue the battle for truth wherever possible, working to defend our values and way of life through our community involvement, church outreach, clubs and social gatherings. We must remain in the battle if we intend to win the war.
Hard as it may be at this moment, we must also pray for our leaders at all levels of government as we are commanded in the Holy Scriptures. Pray that they would govern with honesty and integrity; that they would understand and implement justice through constitutional law as endowed by our Creator.
"I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior…" -1 Timothy 2:1-3
Again, I humbly thank you for your loyal support as well as your continued friendship. It has been an honor to have run for the United States Congress intent on representing people such as you. May God continue to bless this great nation and may we as a people remain worthy of those blessings for many generations to come.
Both of these men are excellent examples of how we as concerned citizens should support our leaders. I intend to heed their advice and pray for our leaders, even if I do not support all of their views politically.
The Scriptures
As I pondered things on election night, my thoughts were turned to the scriptures.
Although society is not even close to the events that happen in the Book of Mormon, during the prophet Mormon's life, I thought about him. His whole society was collapsing and his people were being wiped out. He was tempted to leave them, but he chose to fight with them and pray for them and he even gave his life along side them, never giving up hope that they would repent and turn towards God.
I also looked up scriptures in the Bible and there are numerous scriptures that talk about our role as citizens is to support our leaders of the nation, yet continue to lead moral lives and be a "light on the hill" as Jesus says.
While it is tempting to through up our hands when we see our society choosing paths that are not consistent to what we believe to be true, the scriptures and others around us give us good examples of what our roles truly are. I believe that we should do all we can to raise our children up in truth and we need to do all we can to keep ourselves in line with the Lord. At that point, we can then be used as an instrument in God's hand to provide light and guidance to those around us.
I received the following from one of my old friends today:
I truly believe in the power of Prayer or otherwise I wouldn't be posting this…. Our sweet, beautiful little angel Ashlynn is very seriously ill, we just found out today that she may have liver failure and we will be heading up to stay with her at a London Hospital to figure out what to do for her. We are completely shocked and horrified over this news. All I ask is that everyone would please say a prayer for our beautiful, beautiful baby girl, we would be forever grateful.
My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and his daughter. They had to try and try to get pregnant and bring her into the world and she's only a few months old. Please join me in praying for the little baby and his family. Their last name is Beutler, if you want to say a specific prayer for them.
If you're an NFL fan, like I am, you've probably been amazed by the turnaround of the Denver Broncos season since their evangelical Quarterback, Tim Tebow began starting for them. Watching him for most of a football game is painful. He misses passes constantly, hardly converts on 3rd downs, and overthrows his wide-receivers. On paper his statistics from a passing perspective look awful.
Yet, somehow he keeps pulling wins out by some miracle in every game.
When he scores a touchdown, he drops to a knee and starts praying. This is his signature thing to do and it actually has a nickname now. People call it "Tebowing". Here's an example:
Some people like it, and some people are highly annoyed by it.
When we look in the scriptures, we see some examples of people being condemned for praying in public such as when Jesus tells us to pray in our closets rather than making it a big scene in public, but also many instances where people prayed in public such as Daniel in the Bible and Nephi in the Book of Mormon.
So where do you stand on the issue? Do you feel it's over the top to pray in public (i.e. "Tebowing") or do you feel it's o.k.?
Cast your vote below:
While preparing to teach this week's Sunday School lesson in 2 Corinthians, I came across a talk given by Paul Johnson, one of the Mormon Seventy, entitled "More Than Conquerors Through Him that Loved Us". There were a few lines in the talk that stood out to me, which I will quote:
At times it may seem that our trials are focused on areas of our lives and parts of our souls with which we seem least able to cope. Since personal growth is an intended outcome of these challenges, it should come as no surprise that the trials can be very personal—almost laser guided to our particular needs or weaknesses. And no one is exempt, especially not Saints striving to do what's right.
A pattern in the scriptures and in life shows that many times the darkest, most dangerous tests immediately precede remarkable events and tremendous growth. "After much tribulation come the blessings."
As I read this, I immediately reflected on my own personal trials I've experienced so far in my life. For me, the most difficult trial I've had so far has been overcoming addictions, anxiety, and depression, which I've written about here and here. In this post, I won't spend any more time reflecting on the trial, rather, I will discuss the blessings that came after the trial.
Although I struggled with the issues for about 15 years, the most severe part of my trial lasted about 2 1/2 years as I struggled to overcome various problems partly caused from things I did and also from things that other people did that were out of my control.
However, as I made progress and felt the Lord's hand guide me through the way, I came to trust in Him completely and believed that as long as I followed Him, everything would work out for my own good. Deep down, my deepest desire was to have a healthy relationship with a good woman, but if the Lord thought it would be best not to have that, I was fine with that because I had seen what trying to do things on my own had brought me over the past 15 years.
Over time, God granted me peace of mind and spirit. With that came confidence in my relationship with God and also with myself. I grew to love who I was and feel gratitude in hy heart. Shortly after the most sever part of my trial was over, God granted me the greatest blessing in my life other than the gospel: my wife. It came unexpected, but I thank the Lord every day for the blessing that she has been in my life. With her in my life, I feel that I have been able to come even closer to God as we grow in love for each other each day as we raise our family to the Lord.
I know that my trials are different than others' trials and what appears to be a trial for one person would not be a big deal for another. The tendency is for people to not share trials, but this online format can provide a good place to share experiences and perhaps receive some insight. I have learned that sharing experiences helps build faith and helps us get through the trial. If you have an experience you would like to share about overcoming a trial and the blessings you received from the Lord afterwards, or if you are currently going through a trial and need some help, please share.
Author's note:
The day I wrote this article, I came across an amazing story of a young Cambodian boy whose father was captured and killed that escaped with his mother to the U.S. and was able to overcome issues with drugs and gangs to find God and also earn his PhD. See below:
Today I became somewhat reminiscant of my thoughts and feelings 10 years ago during the tragic events of 9/11. At the time, I worked for the grounds crew at BYU and rather than taking the lawn mowers out that morning, we huddled around the radio and heard the tragic news of the airplanes crashing into buildings.
Personally, I felt hollow and empty and amazed. Later, I felt angry, helpless, and ultimately united. I felt united with my fellow Americans as we united on many levels. We united in a mix of emotions, but ultimately, for a few months after the events, we united in a belief in God. In fact, some studies state that after 9/11 events, 90% of Americans identified belief in God and religion as a good thing.
Today, I personally believe that we have strayed away from this unification as a Nation under God. In fact, we seem more divided and things seem more chaotic as we struggle with economic and financial stress as a nation and our leaders seem to shy away from openly recognizing God in rhetoric.
It reminds me of the Nephites in the Book of Mormon who were united in Christ for 400 years after Christ's visit to them but as they became more wealthy and self-sufficient they strayed from God and were ultimately destroyed. I fear that if we do not remember God as a nation, we will also be destroyed and we may already be decaying slowly with the debt issues, etc. we're having.
I pray that as we reflect on 9/11 that we also reflect on the feelings of unification we all felt as we were united under God after the events of 9/11.
As we were getting ready to celebrate the new year this evening, my wife showed me a story from her cousin's roomate that touched me and I thought it was appropriate to share. It is a story of a young couple who chose to get married despite the fact the young bride is struggling with stage 4 cancer. I found it amazing how they have chosen to pull closer together and towards God as they fight this battle together. May we all set the goal to do the same this year.
Here is an interview with the couple on Mormon Times:
I wish you all the best this New Year. Thank you for your great energy and contribution to this site. Your testimonies have helped many people this year. I look forward to the coming year.
God bless!
It was about 5:45 p.m. on a friday evening as I drove my car a few blocks away from the food bank and parked it ambiguously. I hadn't showered for two days and had about 5 days of facial hair growth as I stepped out onto the street and made my way towards the Salvation Army's shelter. I was wearing my work clothes and felt nervous inside with questions in my mind about how the experience would play out. Never before had I put myself in a situation where I was on the receiving end of being homeless. I had always been the one giving help. As I walked up to the building, a man laying on the ground with a read face and reeking of alcohol starred me down. I asked him where I could get some food to eat and he pointed around the alleyway where there were more people who looked similar to him. I thanked him and started walking towards the alleyway.
For one of my Masters Degree courses in managing diversity, our professor asked us to put ourselves in a situation that challenged our world view. I've been pretty fortunate throughout my life with the blessings of knowing God and having a supportive family, and feel that although I've had challenges, I have never had to deal with homelessness. After discussing my idea with my professor, he thought it would be a good idea to expose myself to the homeless culture. Originally, I was going to go there and just ask them questions about their situation, but the more I thought about it, the more I felt it would be a better experience for me to be one with them instead. As I approached the alley, I prayed in my heart that I would be led by the Lord and learn a lesson that He would have me learn.
The alley was lined with people who had dreadlocks, dingy clothes, tons of piercings, and down-trodden faces. Some didn't look so bad, while others clearly had been living a rough life in many ways. I walked through the crowd and asked for help in where to go. The first gentleman just starred at me and turned his head but then I saw one of the Salvation Army workers who told me to go into a certain door.
As I entered the door, I saw a plate and people lined up to dish up some spaghetti and salad. I thanked them as they dished me up and turned to see where I should sit. There were groups of people at tables and also a few lonely individuals at tables throughout the room. As I scanned the surroundings, a young man with long hair in a ponytail with his head down caught my eye and I walked over to him and sat down in front of him.
"Can I sit here?" I asked.
There was no response, so I took that as a yes and sat down wondering if I would get a conversation in.
I took a few bites of food and then asked "So do you come here often?"
Then the young man looked up at me and said "Sometimes. Do you have a place to stay?"
I hadn't thought about what my story would be so I thought quickly and told him I bounced around to friends houses. Then I asked him if he had a place to stay. He told me he did, but that he had lost his job as a professional musician when the studio went under. He also told me that his wife had just left him as well. However, he said that he had faith things would work out. I was intrigued with his optimism and asked him why he felt things would work out.
He proceeded to share his testimony of Jesus Christ with me and the hope he had in his heart. He told me of how earlier in his life he was addicted to drugs and alcohol but that through a miraculous prayer, he was healed of his addictions and became a follower of Jesus. He then started telling me that if I had hope and faith things would work out for me as well. He started sharing some inspirational scriptures from the Bible with me and I felt very moved as he reached out to me even though he was in such bad circumstances.
When he told me that he was not on unemployment and that he didn't have enough money for rent I asked him how he planned on paying. He looked at me with confidence and said "God is faithful. He will provide. He always does."
I was touched as I thought about all that I have been blessed with financially and the beautiful little family that I have. I realized as I spoke with this young man that it could be taken away anytime and that essentially everything I have is not mine, but a Gods that He is loaning to me. In this instant, I then thought about this young man and an idea came to my mind.
"How much money do you have saved up for this month's rent?" I asked him.
"None." he replied.
"Would a couple hundred dollars help you?" I asked
"Oh. Yes!" He said. "I'm not sure where I'd get it, but I could definitely use it."
I then asked him where the nearest bank was and he said two blocks up the road.
I looked at him and said "You have a very good heart and the Spirit of the Lord is with you. I feel that God has led me to give you some money to help out. Let's go to the bank and I'll get you a couple hundred dollars."
His mouth hit the floor and he said "You'd better not be messin' with me man!"
I assured him I wasn't.
As we walked to the bank I told him I had dressed up as a homeless guy to try to see things through different lenses then I am accustomed to. I told him I have a good job and a beautiful wife and little daughter. He was very amazed that I would do that. As I withdrew the money and handed it to him, he lit up and was so grateful. He asked me if he could pray for me and of course I told him he could.
When he prayed for me, I felt such love and charity coming from his heart. Not once did he pray for himself, but he prayed for me, my job, my wife and daughter. He thanked God for answering his prayers that somehow he could find means to pay his rent. He also prayed for his wife who had recently left him that she would get healed from alcoholism and find faith. He thanked God for Jesus and faith. I felt up-lifted and renewed from his prayer and as he finished I asked him if I could pray for him as well and I did.
After we prayed together, I gave him contact information for the LDS employment services location that was right next to where he lived. We walked to his house and he gave me some of his business cards he had made in case I came across anyone who needed guitar lessons.
As we parted ways, I had a silent prayer in my heart for him that he would find the answers to his prayers and with the faith that he has, I'm sure he will.
When I stepped into my car I reflected on the feelings of nervousness that I had originally felt and how I felt now. It is amazing how God can replace fear with faith and I was once again reminded of how God "doesn't care one bit if we live in a castle or a cottage, if we are handsome or homely, if we are famous or forgotten. Though we are incomplete, God loves us completely." (Uchtdorf, 2009)


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best drama ever!! could watch it 10times lol. also the music is so good :)
Iwase Ken and Yoshida Rei have been friends since elementary school. Ken, is obstinate and unskilled in love, but he fell long ago for the lively and cheerful, Rei. But Rei is about to get married to another man. While Ken and other friends from high-school attend the wedding ceremony, a fairy appears and sends Ken back in time, giving him a second chance to win the girl he loves.


text:
The Academy Awards episode 61.1, "The 85th Annual Academy Awards" stars Seth MacFarlane and is directed by Don Mischer.
Psycho was released June 16th, 1960 and stars Anthony Perkins, Vera Miles, John Gavin, Martin Balsam, John McIntire, Simon Oakland, Vaughn Taylor, Frank Albertson. The film is directed by Alfred Hitchcock.


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Artist Lounge: Free Spirited Artist - Ntsiki Mazwai
"Terrible, bad things happen
when good people do nothing
say nothing
Ndithi, how long ma-Afrika
Will this nation be dying, crying?
These unlawful sins are traumatising
Burning men
and murdering women
Weh ma Afrika yimihlola yantoni na?
Yimihlola ya ntoni na? (Africans, what atrocities are these?)
Death and Destruction mislabelled as revolution
2 all the soldiers that died in Marikana
2 all the sons that we lost in Marikana
2 all the bleeding sons of Marikana
Terrible bad thing happen when good people do nothing, say nothing
All my soldiers of the sun RISE!"
- Ntsiki Mazwai "Nkosi Sikelela/Rise"
A fitting poem by the beautiful Ntsiki Mazwai. Nontsikelelo (which means the mother of blessings) was born in 1980 in Soweto, South Africa (SA). Her parents were journalists and very politically active as part of one of the liberation movements, the Pan Africanist Congress. This means Ntsiki since birth, was raised on black consciousness. From a young age Ntsiki and her siblings were nurtured to read, know, and be aware of social conditions.
Her spiritual energy is her gift and manifests itself in various ways. It started out as beadwork when she was 21. Out the blue she went to a bead shop and decided to pick up beading. What transpired was Godly. She began making beadwork jewelry and suddenly there was a demand for her products. Because of this demand and appreciation for her work, she founded a beadwork business. She created bold and distinctive pieces that in turn brought her a lot of media and industry attention. She named her beadwork line 'House of Mobu' (soil/earth).
The beadwork led her to discovering her gift in poetry and while she wrote and appreciated poetry in school, she did not know she was a poet whose work would extend beyond the walls of her classrooms. Her first stage performance got a standing ovation which triggered her to embark on a journey of exploration in poetry. She was also part of resurrecting the live music and spoken word scene in South Africa. It was at these sessions that she learned to work with musicians and how to manipulate her poetic flow to be more melodic.
Rise Africa recently received the opportunity to interview with the profound Ntsiki Maswai on African art genres, her "Nkosi Sikelela/Rise" piece, and this month's theme topic. This is what she had to say…


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Lake Buena Vista, Fla. – So I asked Chipper Jones today about possibly hitting cleanup instead of his preferred No. 3 hole, and he didn't scoff or look at me like I'm an idiot. That was encouraging.
Instead, he kept lacing his cleats and said in that slow drawl: "We'll make the decision based on personnel. If we get a 3-hitter I'll hit cleanup. If we get a cleanup hitter, I'll hit third."
Well, folks, at this point available cleanup hitters would appear to be in short supply.
If the Braves get Ken Griffey Jr., which it appears they have a strong chance of doing, then he's not likely to hit fourth. Not at this stage of his career, and particularly not if he's used in a left-field platoon with Matt Diaz.
Griffey has his second-most career at-bats from the cleanup spot, but it's a distant second to the 3-hole, where he's had more than 7,600 of his 9,316 career at-bats. He hit third for 327 of his 490 at-bats last season, and actually had more at-bats hitting sixth (58), seventh (47) and second (21) than cleanup (20).
In other words, the erstwhile "Kid" ain't a kid anymore, and almost certainly ain't going to be cleaning up.
And, although Brian McCann hit well in the cleanup spot last season after the Braves traded Mark Teixeira, it's not ideal having a catcher in the cleanup spot, since he's probably going to be out of the lineup on a regular basis once every five or six games.
(Yes, I know: Chipper's going to be out of the lineup more than that, for injuries. But that's not the point.)
"You want your three and four [hitters] to be set," Jones said. "I realize you can't do anything about injuries. But you still want those guys to be hitting there in those spots consistently."
So, don't expect Jones to complain if Bobby Cox asks him to hit cleanup. Among the guys the Braves have been considering in trades, Nick Swisher is not a cleanup hitter but, as Chipper pointed out, Xavier Nady could be.
Among free agents, Garret Anderson certainly could hit cleanup. But I don't get the impression the Braves are too keen on signing the 37-year-old outfielder, who'd have to switch leagues and having him switch leagues and play the outfield if he's in the lineup (he had 240 at-bats as a DH last season).
Besides, I've got feeling they're going to sign Griffey. And Tom Glavine. Then the money will be about gone, and it'll be about deciding who hits third if Chipper hits cleanup. Griffey could do it, at least against right-handers, but what about facing lefties?
Maybe Kelly Johnson could hit third?
Or, as Jones suggested a while back, maybe Francoeur has his act together and could hit cleanup. (Hey, I didn't say I believed that to be at all likely.)
– Jordan Schafer isn't a punk kid anymore. At least that's the impression I got today, from observing and talking to him, and to others about him.
A year ago, he fairly strutted around camp. He concedes today that was his way of dealing with feeling out of place, as if everyone was staring at the then-No. 1 prospect whose stock soared after his performance in the low minors in 2007. Dude already had a Nike endorsement last spring, and hadn't played above A-ball.
A year later, he seems more subdued, mature, and confident — but not the seemingly false bravado he showed last spring. After a difficult Double-A season that included a 50-game suspension for alleged HGH use (Schafer insists he never used HGH, but that he made bad choices in those he associated with), the kid from nearby Polk County just wants to compete for a job this spring, then have a consistent season whether he's in the majors or at Triple-A Gwinnett.
The way he's swinging in the cages during early workouts with a handful of other early arriving position players, Schafer looks ready to give Josh Anderson a serious battle for the CF job. Schafer's put on 15 pounds since last season, and now has the thick, roped forearms that you see on bricklayers and guys who hit thousands and thousands of baseballs.
Oh, and he's got tattoos covering both arms from elbow to shoulder (and perhaps more; I didn't see him with his shirt off, but had him pull up his sleeves to show me his ink after I saw the tatts below the bottoms of the sleeves on his polo shirt.
"I feel confident now," said the 22-year-old, who's still driving a Hummer that he said cost him a fortune to operate when gas was around $4 and he was home in Florida serving his suspension. "Not like last year. I don't feel like an outcast anymore. Matt's helped me a lot."
That'd be Diaz, a fellow Central Floridian and one of the more popular Braves in the clubhouse in recent years. Diaz is mature, personable, humble — oh, and about 20 pounds lighter than last season, after following an entirely new diet and plyometrics conditioning program all winter. Diaz also has a grip that could break your fingers, and those forearms I mentioned earlier, hitter/bricklayer forearms — Diaz is bigger in the arms this spring, despite his dramatic weight loss
But where were we? Oh, yes, Schafer.
"I'm just trying to come in here and show Bobby [Cox], Frank [Wren] and T.P. [hitting coach Terry Pendleton] that I'm ready, mentally and physically," he said.
Pendleton's assessment after several days watching him in the batting cages and clubhouse: "He's growing up. Last year he came in here like [Pendleton looks around, wide-eyed], 'I'm here.' This year I can say this: He looks like he's on a mission. There's a different look in his eyes."
– Aussie-rules racing: Marcos Ambros is the first Australian to race NASCAR, and he invited a couple of his countryman over to Daytona for qualifying Friday. Braves relievers Peter Moylan and Phil Stockman both said it was one of the most exciting, enjoyable days they'd ever had. Ever. In their lives.
"I'm a fan now, man," said Moylan, who was thrilled with the racing and the courtesy that Ambros and his crew showed them.
"Once you get in those pits, you're hooked." — Bobby Cox on Aussie pitchers Peter Moylan and Phil Stockman professing to be NASCAR converts after spending a day at Daytona qualifying in the pit area and trailer of Australian driver Marcos Ambros.
The Aussie pitchers were blown away by the size of the speedway, the crowds, and the sheer number of workers it takes to run a NASCAR team.
Stockman talked like a kid a Christmas about the experience, everything, including the laps they got to take in a pace car, though the 6-foot-8 Stockman asked to stop after two trips around, as he was about to throw up from steep-banked turns. Might have been the Vegemite-on-toast that Ambros shared with Stockman and Moylan (folks Down Under like that salty, bitter condiment a lot more than most other human beings do, and both pitchers loved it when they saw Ambros chowing down on Vegemite).
"He's just a good bloke," Stockman said of the driver, who is a major celebrity in Australia.
When Moylan saw noted race fan Chipper Jones enter the clubhouse Saturday, he shouted to the third baseman, "I see how you rednecks do it now," meaning how so many of them could watch races for hours on end. Jones just gave him a knowing smile.
-- OK, been a long day, and I've got to be back out at the ballpark early for the first pitchers-and-catchers workout tomorrow.
"MAN IN BLACK" by Johnny Cash
Well, you wonder why I always dress in black
Why you never see bright colors on my back,
And why does my appearance seem to have a somber tone.
Well, there's a reason for the things that I have on.
I wear the black for the poor and the beaten down,
livin' in the hopeless, hungry side of town.
I wear it for the prisoner who has long paid for his crime,
but is there because he's a victim of the times.
I wear the black for those who never read,
or listened to the words that Jesus said,
About the road to happiness through love and charity
Why, you'd think He's talking straight to you and me.
Well, we're doin' mighty fine, I do suppose.
In our streak of lightnin' cars and fancy clothes.
But just so we're reminded of the ones who are held back,
up front there oughta be a Man In Black.
I wear it for the sick and lonely old.
For the reckless ones whose bad trip left them cold.
I wear the black in mournin' for the lives that could have been.
Each week we lose a hundred fine young men.
And, I wear it for the thousands who have died,
believing that the Lord was on their side.
I wear it for another hundred thousand who have died,
believing that we all were on their side.
Well, there's things that never will be right I know,
and things need changin' everywhere you go.
But 'til we start to make a move to make a few things right,
you'll never see me wear a suit of white.
Ah, I'd love to wear a rainbow every day,
and tell the world that everything's OK.
But I'll try to carry off a little darkness on my back,
till things are brighter, I'm the Man In Black.
February 15th, 2009
11:49 am
Been eating Marmite since I was a kid Great stuff. Yeast extract. I think its the same thing as Vegemite. I spoon it right out of the little jar. Everyone I have known thinks I'm crazy!
February 15th, 2009
8:18 pm
TnBrian, I don't think those are bad guesses. Though, if I were to make a prediction today, while optimistic… I wouldn't be quite that optimistic. I'll wait till end of March to go on record with a prediction, but if I were to guess now, I'd say:
Lowe: 16-10, 3.25 ERA
Vazquez: 15-9, 3.65 ERA
Jurrjens: 15-8, 3.60 ERA
Kawakami: 12-9, 4.00 ERA
Glavine: 13-10, 4.15 ERA
Numerous scouts have expressed a belief that Vazquez is poised to have a very nice season in ATL. They point out that he's trading the DH & a hitter's paradise of a park for the NL & a pitcher's park… and I've heard more than one person predict that he'll find a far greater comfort zone in ATL under Bobby Cox than he had under Ozzie Guillen, whose management style isn't for everyone. I agree with them. I think he'll put up numbers somewhat in line with his 07 production.
And I think Jurrjens could very well take a step forward and establish himself as a legitimate ace… but I'm not comfortable predicting that at this point. I might feel differently by the end of the spring. I'll wait and see how he looks. I definitely disagree with those who predict that he'll take a step back, though. Not sure what they're basing that on. He has 4 pitches, outstanding stuff, very good control, and a great approach/makeup. Should be at least as good as he was last year. Probably better.
I have no idea what to make of Kawakami yet, having never seen him pitch (except for a few video clips). But if the Braves, who have undoubtedly scouted the hell out of the guy, are comfortable giving him 21 million… I'm comfortable predicting a decent ERA.
I think Glavine probably still has something left in the tank, and should be a productive starter, particularly for a 5th starter. If he's healthy, it's hard to imagine why Jamie Moyer (who is several years older and quite similar to Glavine in many ways) can do it, but Glavine couldn't.
In looking forward to what kind of records Braves starters might put up, it's worth noting that their win totals should be helped by what promises to be an outstanding bullpen. And I think the offense is going to be better than many expect as well (particularly if we sign Griffey), which will also, quite obviously, affect win totals.
February 16th, 2009
12:44 am
Just found something really interesting. Everyone remember Frenchy's "The Natural" SI cover? Well, take a look at this:
February 16th, 2009
12:46 am
Andy K. GREAT point about T.Moore!! lol
It might actually be tough on More though… I understand that Griffey has a restraining order on him. Apparently, the extent of Moore's adoration for Griffey began to creep him out. Can't say that I blame him.
February 16th, 2009
12:50 am
Chop Chop: "I wish Mike McGwire and Sammy Sooser were available. The Braves could use some right-handed thump in that lineup."
Heck, I'm available. I hit right-handed in high school, and am more than willing to stick a needle in my ass for 10 million a year!!!
February 16th, 2009
12:55 am
O.K. young lady. Sharpen up those fingers and get ready to send reports of the sparkling new GWINNETT BRAVES come APRIL. I'll be reading with anticipation. See STOCKMAN, LEREW, and a bunch of former R-BRAVES are out of options. Can't see many clearing waivers, so it'll be a new franchise player-wise. Check out DAVE BRUNDIGE and see if you like him as much as I did the past two years. I still think he's the man destined for the ATLANTA skipper's slot once BC calls it a career.
February 16th, 2009
12:58 am
Hot damm. I KNEW that rumor about TMo and Junior was more than a mere man-crush thing.
February 16th, 2009
12:58 am
I think you lost all credibility with your 2009 "BRAVES" predictions and stats when you posted those ridiculous numbers that you think Jeff Francine is going to produce.
Shame, b/c the rest of the numbers weren't that far fetched!
One last thing, everyone talking about Tim Kirkjian doesn't know what the frak they are talking about. The guy knows his stuff. He's also spoken positively about the Braves more than anyone on ESPN in recent years. If he feels the Braves are about a 81 win team you should respect that b/c he knows more baseball than the rest of you (who slammed the guy) combined!
For the record, the Braves even with Glavine and Griffey Jr are about a 81 win team to me. A heck of a lot has to go "right" just like KC said for the Braves to go 88 plus wins and a playoff appearance. Could it happen…probably. But then again, we thought they'd be a division contending team last year as well and that didn't turn out so well.
Anyways, 81 wins and lower expectations. Anything else will be a bonus.
February 16th, 2009
1:02 am
And less???? Wait, don't tell me. Let me guess.
February 16th, 2009
1:07 am
haha true Braves fans don't settle for 81 wins SUPES thats a joke this is one of the most successful franchises of all time i expect us to win 90 the rotation we have is good and the lineup is not as bas as most of you think kelly is going to hit for more power and so will others go Braves we will make the playoffs in 09
yours truly
February 16th, 2009
1:39 am
everyone guessing stats for every player on the team is a little much
February 16th, 2009
1:41 am
DOB- will the braves have restrictions for javy pitching in the WBC?
February 16th, 2009
1:47 am
Supes, the post you saw earlier with the numbers was NOT a prediction. I stated that in that post, and again in another post a short while ago (in bold print, no less).
AGAIN… those numbers were not a prediction. I said I thought those numbers would be a very practical expectation IF Francoeur bounces back. I didn't predict that he WOULD… I just said that if he did, those numbers were probably reasonable to expect from the Braves lineup.
For the record, I do think Francoeur is more likely than not to return to pre-2008 form, but that's certainly no sure thing, and I'm not comfortable predicting that yet. I'll wait till the end of spring to make any predictions I'm willing to be held to.
If you want set your expectations at 81 wins to increase your odds of being pleasantly surprised, so be it. Personally, I think it would take another chain of near tragic events for the Braves to finish at or below .500 again.
Last year, the Braves lost their top 4 starters, the closer, and their setup man for much or all of the season. I have NEVER seen anything like that in my life. In any sport. To any team. It's pretty damned unlikely that we'll see that again, but it's not all about luck. The Braves took steps to decrease the odds of anything like that happening again.
Instead of relying on Mike Hampton and two 40-plus starters at the top of the rotation… they've brought in two of the most durable starters in baseball (Lowe and Vazquez), and another relatively durable starter in Kawakami.
As for what to expect, I agree with Dayn Perry's take on the Braves… If the Braves have a healthy bullpen and get a little more offense (A Francoeur bounce-back and the addition of Griffey would do the trick), the Braves can win this division. If not, they can't. Perry said he thought the Braves looked like an 85 win team, and pending the answers to the afore mentioned questions (bullpen health and offense), they could be much better.
I think that's a very fair assessment.
February 16th, 2009
1:48 am
I think there are many positives about the Griffey signing. I just hope that his agent is not using the Braves as leverage, in a similar way to Furcal's.
You've been talking about certain players as easy to talk to or get on with, implying there are others who are not. Care to elaborate?
February 16th, 2009
1:54 am
Anyone else concerned about Kawakami? Not the pitch he threw over the bullpen wall, or that he was nervous on his first day- how about the fact that he's used to pitching every 6 or 7 days, and now at age 33 he'll be moved to a 5 man rotation? Are the Braves going to compensate for this at all? Just wondering- seems like we could actually use 6 starters (or at least 1 good long reliever) on the roster, to give Kawakami a rest early in the season.
February 16th, 2009
1:55 am
DOB… You seem a bit more relaxed nowadays compared to last fall… Not sure if it's personal, because the Braves cleaned up this off season, or what. Nice to see though…
February 16th, 2009
2:01 am
Supes As for your Tim Kirkjian defense… I'm sure he's a smart baseball guy. However, it's often the case the national writers don't pay close attention to a particular team, and are off base for that reason.
For instance, Jurrjens is largely ignored by national writers. Most everyone I've heard (within baseball) who has seen him pitch with any regularity has raved about him and express a belief that he's a developing top-of-rotation starter. But some of the national writers I've heard seem talk about him like he's a back-end guy. Bottom line is they haven't seem him pitch much, if at all.
And I heard one national writer say recently that Hanson was probably a "couple years away", and wasn't likely to be ready to help this year, if needed. That's the opposite of everything scouts are saying about him, and the statement was just plain ignorant on his part.
So I'm always a little suspicious of the depth of familiarity national writers have with a particular ball club when they comment on a team. I'm not sure where Tim Kirkjian is coming from with his 81 win assessment, but it's not at all in line with assessments I've heard from many other qualified (and likely far more familiar) observers… some of whom have no stock in this Braves team.
Bases on what I've seen, I think Tim's take on this team is way off base. I'll make an 85 win wager right now. You name the terms.
February 16th, 2009
2:30 am
I'll give the starters, oh, 64 wins or so…
Lowe: 15-10, 3.47 ERA (33 starts)
Vazquez: 13-14, 3.82 ERA (34 starts)
Jurrjens: 14-9, 3.67 ERA (30 starts)
Kawakami: 8-9, 4.34 ERA (26 starts)
Glavine: 6-6, 4.65 ERA (15 starts)
Reyes: 2-2, 5.06 ERA (8 starts)
Morton: 1-3, 5.23 ERA (5 starts)
Hanson: 6-2, 3.52 ERA (11 starts)
Anyway, that adds up to a 65-55 record for the starters. (For point of reference, the Braves' starters went 50-58…I think…last year.) That's not that bad. Bobby would get twelve more decisions and fifteen more wins out of his starting rotation. Gaining thirteen more wins overall (from 72-90 to my prediction: 85-77) would be the result of Wren's additions. Meanwhile, the payroll would be about the same. Again, that's not bad. If the hitting improves, maybe those totals bump up a couple of games, but I don't see this team winning the division or making the playoffs. I have a feeling that the team will be just good enough to keep our interest all year. That's not a bad thing at all.
Hanson's my bright side to this season. If he performs the way I'm predicting, we'll be looking forward to a truly strong rotation in 2010. (The fact that I'm not sold on Kawakami and my strong doubt about Glavine's ability, if he's signed, to overcome the wear and tear of his 4413 career IP both make me skeptical about the solidity of the rotation.)
I hope that my predictions end up being wrong…in a good way.
February 16th, 2009
2:32 am
Sorry not for me…didnt know when you copy and paste that it shows that person's name. I copied KC's post from your post. Still getting used to the changes. ERIC
no problem, I was just busting KC's chops a bit, since he is the eternal optimist
February 16th, 2009
2:33 am
(Note: I was typing that before I noticed that KC was talking about 85 wins. I rarely agree with anything he says, but 85 wins (plus-minus a couple either way) sounds about right.
February 16th, 2009
2:38 am
You know , I brought up this idea ( of using either Griffey or Edmionds in a platoon with Diaz) up like 2 months ago and got called an idiot by most folks ( granted DOB thought it was a good idea barring Dunn or Abreu coming cheap). I don't seem to remember so many folks in favor of it back then! Alright guys, come clean!!
It has the potential to be a great platoon and the downside is he gets hurt and B Jones get's some playing time. Neither option is that bad !
February 16th, 2009
2:46 am
Dude, what are you talking about?
As for the "eternal optimist" title… I don't mind the title, I don't think there's anything wrong with being optimistic as long as you realistically recognize the challenges. That said, it always surprises me a little how often that's said, considering that I'm nowhere near the most optimistic regular on this blog. Just today I've seen a couple of predictions that were WAY more optimistic than anything I'd dare predict.
But hey… whatever. Typecast actors are always the best paid! Maybe if I'm typecast here long enough, someone will offer to pay me for my opinions! Hey, I can dream.
February 16th, 2009
2:47 am
McFann, or any other helpful friendly bloggers, how do you post a link in this new format?
I wonder if Bravesfan79 will be concerned about Moylan when they trade or release Stockman, his fellow countryman.
February 16th, 2009
2:48 am
Sorry y'all that last "NotForMe" post was actually from me. I meant to address it to NotForMe, but instead typed his handle in the "name" field by accident. My bad.
February 16th, 2009
3:01 am
Chop Chop, I think your ERA predictions are very reasonable for Lowe, Vazquez, and Jurrjens. If I had to guess, I think the Kawakami ERA might be just a tad high, but I guess I'm talking out of my a$$ until I've at least had a chance to see him this spring (just going on the confidence the Braves have in him).
I also tend to think that Glavine's comeback is more likely than not to go better than you predict… though you could very well be right. And I'm not sure I can see Hanson, Reyes, and Morton ALL getting several starts this year. Though, if Glavine can't stay healthy, Hanson could well wind up getting a good number of starts this year, as you projected.
In short, to restate what I said earlier… I agree with Dayn Perry that if the Braves get more offense (Griffey and a Francoeur bounce-back) and a healthy bullpen, they can win this division. If not, they can't.
Right now, with questions still to be answered, 85 wins is probably a very reasonable estimate. But I feel this team may be capable of much better IF Frenchy gets his sh!t together and the Braves enjoy reasonably good health.
But if all they get out of this year is a solid 85 win season… that'll be ok. Everything Wren did this winter (and may still do) was done WITHOUT eroding the depth of young talent in the system. So better days are likely ahead… whatever the Braves do this year.
February 16th, 2009
3:19 am
545 comments on your blog..hats off….as far as long day got to be at the ballpark tomorrow…c'mon man…you're reeling off baseball observations and quoting songs…that's what we do in our SPARE time..good for you DOB. Go Junior.
February 16th, 2009
3:25 am
TO REALITY and mbatl: Reality, as usual you make your twisted logic by picking the stats you like, not the most accurate of the situation. Prado's minor league stats don't count in the majors. Prado's 2008 Major League slugging % against lefties was over .500, somewhat better than Kelly's. You can be as negative about aspects of the Braves you don't like(which appears to be most things BRAVES), but at least make your arguments with the pertinent stats. I agree, unlike some, that Kelly deserves to be the starter, but against lefties he is a slight dropoff from the Prado of 2008.
mbatl, You've made many good posts in the past, don't get sucked into the REALITY BLACK HOLE OF NEGATIVE ENERGY, it leads to oblivion!
February 16th, 2009
4:11 am
With some people being concerned with the # of innings pitched by Glavine Kawakami and Hanson, how about a kind of 6 man rotation. The first 3 would stay in the same slots and the last 3 would rotate turns. This way they could all stay fresh, avoid injury or fatigue and Hanson could still develop without a huge workload. The only problem would be that it would take an arm away from the pen. But with Hanson you could send him to Gwinette when not pitching and bring another guy up. Options count for the entire season, so we wouldn't have to be concerned with using all of Hansons options. Any thoughts?
February 16th, 2009
7:10 am
DOB, I know where that place is…it's about 45 miles or so from my house.
February 16th, 2009
7:19 am
I think its going to be tough getting work done today from checking for news every 5 minutes…
February 16th, 2009
7:22 am
DOB: How about giving us your pre-spring training 25 man roster prediction? It just seems we have a TON of familiar names that tally up to more than 25. Just a best guess at this point prediction….
I really do like the idea of a platoon in LF of Griff and Diaz and have for several months. For those that hate the idea of platoons, see the '83 Orioles team on how it can work and work very well. Earl Weaver was definitely one that played the numbers and practically platooned at half of the positions that year.
LF (Roenicke and Lowenstein)
CF (Shelby and Bumbry)
C (Dempsey and Nolan)
RF (Ford and Dwyer)
3B (too many crappy players to list)
2B (Dauer and Sakata)
February 16th, 2009
7:31 am
Great blog DOB!
I said this a couple weeks on go on this blog that Chipper might have to hit cleanup this year. If that happens I would like to see Escobar batting 3rd. I don't think Griffey should even be batting 3rd but that's just me.
February 16th, 2009
7:33 am
The price to get into the park last year was indeed $10. I will be heading over Wednesday (hopefully), so I will post an update then if someone hasn't done so already.
February 16th, 2009
7:48 am
DOB sorry if i came across as mean. what i was trying to do is let you know i wish i could do what you do full time. it's a great job you have and the 555 comments PROVES what a great job you do. it's not easy by any means it's just an enviable position you have. i can only do it in my spare time. i wish i could do it full time. no harm meant dude.
February 16th, 2009
8:06 am
I agree that the Griffey signing would be the best for a platoon situation considering the lack of money/options. Seems like the the two signings would bring us to our total budget. DOB, do you think the "purse strings" would continue to be closed if FW needed some money for midseason acquisitions? Great job.
February 16th, 2009
8:08 am
Really excited to see that Matt Diaz has dropped some weight and followed a plyometrics routine this off-season. I seem to remember a little-known football player named Herschel Walker having some success with plyometrics. Hopefully it works half as well for Matty and keeps him in the mix this season.
I'd love to see a Diaz – Griffey Jr platoon, as long as each of them is accepting of the role, and both healthy enough to contribute. Certainly not the huge bat most were hoping for, but a marked improvement from last season. I think I'd be happier hoping the platoon works out than hoping Swisher can put together a good season (and losing prospects to do it). Either one is a gamble, and Griffey Jr seems like a better role of the dice at this point.
February 16th, 2009
8:10 am
Reality, as usual you make your twisted logic by picking the stats you like…
And you're not? Not trying to be combative here.
Prado's minor league stats don't count in the majors.
Yes they do. There is almost always a very real correlation between minor league performance and major league. Certainly the 1,920 minor league at-bats are a bigger sample size and more telling than 228 at-bats in the majors in 2008.
Prado's major league numbers, both in his short career and in 2008, seem to be greatly inflated due to an uncharacteristic and unsustainable month of performance in August 2008 (1.103 OPS). Prado met the mean the following month in September (.654 OPS).
February 16th, 2009
8:23 am
DOB Not to discount his value to the braves team this year but this Griffey signing could mean a historic year or two as he finishes his career and may be a sight to behold. Very exciting. Hope we aren't getting our hopes up to be burst again. JohnF comments seem like a combination of ignorance and envy to me.
February 16th, 2009
8:23 am
Just saw Chipper's quote in DOB's article about potentially signing Glavine and/or Griffey:
"I think I've been weaned off of getting overly anxious about moves to be made"
Ain't that the truth. I refuse to get too excited about landing a free agent until the player has a formal terms declaration sheet in front of them awaiting a routine signature.
February 16th, 2009
8:30 am
Did Frank Wren remember to put any term sheets in his briefcase before he left for Florida?
February 16th, 2009
8:44 am
DOB any chance you can give us more color on the Hanson workout? Did he throw against hitters or was it just a workout?
Also…does the Dark Star cue those horrible, horrible sound effects even during this portion of ST? Or is that only during the games? If now, you deserve a purple heart for what you do. Seriously.
February 16th, 2009
8:50 am
Just had the "Refresh, and comments disappear" issue using Firefox. Interesting.
You know what else is interesting? Punctuation:
Apparently, there's been a spill.
February 16th, 2009
8:52 am
I was wondering if we could start a DL pool? One good pool we be to guess the date both Chipper and Griffey are on the DL at the same time.
February 16th, 2009
9:03 am
Morning All,
I have been hoping that the Braves would sign Jim Edmunds to a low dollar contract! WIth all of the Griffey talk and the news about his surgery over the winter and his conditioning, I will be very happy if the Braves sign Griffey.
I think this team needs a veteran presence on the field and in the clubhouse and Griffey will definitely help that.
Same with Glavine, the Braves have enough young pitching not to need Glavine, but I think his presence will help the pitchers and the team.
The Soriano stuff is already old and spring training has just started. I really hope he comes out pitching well and the Braves trade him and his barrel of excuses for anything.
If Moylan is back, if Boyer's weight loss proves beneficial and if Stockman can stay healthy for at least 15 minutes at a time (not even considering Acosta) the Braves have the bullpen depth to punt Soriano.
February 16th, 2009
9:16 am
"The Soriano stuff is already old and spring training has just started. I really hope he comes out pitching well and the Braves trade him and his barrel of excuses for anything."
I hope the guy stays healthy, because if he is even 80%, this Braves bullpen will be pretty incredible. Gonzo, Moylan, Soriano, Boyer, Acosta, Logan or O'Flaherty, and Bennett or Campillo as the long man.
February 16th, 2009
9:17 am
The Braves don't need Glavine or Griffey, use the money to go get a real player and not some has beens. Glavine is washed up and will struggle and Griffey won't make it through the entire season.
February 16th, 2009
9:20 am
On Soriano… I think the Braves are hoping he does well this spring so he can be a prime bargaining chip. While his 6 point something million dollar salary is not exorbitant, it would allow the Brave to pick up a Nady or a Swisher with out braking the bank if they could unload him.
I will give him the benefit of the doubt on his cold but at some point he needs to step it up to prove he really did have arm trouble and the surgery fixed it.
February 16th, 2009
9:22 am
Possibility of four future hall of famers in the lineup at the same time. Glavine, Griffey, Chipper, McCann (just for McFann). Of course if you listen to some people about Prado that would make five.
February 16th, 2009
9:25 am
Gil In Mechanicsville
Yes, a great trade chip, but then would the Braves even trade him? Soriano to the Yanks would make some sense though. They could certainly use a set up man in front of Mariano. Edwar Ramirez, Brian Bruney and Jose Veras don't inspire confidence. Of course, I'm getting ahead of myself. The guy hasn't even thrown a pitch to show anyone that he is healthy.
February 16th, 2009
9:27 am
Gil – I don't think there is any question that Soriano had arm trouble, but it was not picked up for a long time. Having said that he does seem to be the sort of player that does not want to play if he is in any discomfort. Would much rather have someone like Chipper, who probably plays hurt more often than not.
February 16th, 2009
9:29 am
Actually perhaps a better comparison would be with Smoltz, who was always going to give you everything he had, you knew when he went down it was serious.
February 16th, 2009
9:29 am
I can't remember the last time the Braves signed so many free agents in one offseason especially if both Glavine and Griffey are signed. Wren bashers are going to have a rough time finding new ways to bash him pretty soon. Griffey is almost perfect right now in a platoon role and hey, he says he wants to be a Brave which is always a plus.
Gil, I think you're giving Soriano too much credit with his cold. He's getting paid $6m and should be in Fla. with his teammates regardless. You have to think Bobby is worried about what he'll pull during the season, but he's probably getting used to it from last year. Regardless of how he does this year, I can see him being traded pretty soon to free up some money for other needs, especially if Moylan is as good as we're hearing.
February 16th, 2009
9:32 am
Soriano could only be a bargaining chip in the middle of the season, he is a FA at the end of the year.
February 16th, 2009
9:33 am
Griffey not playing everyday would help him not to get worn down and into an injury. But lets sign him before specualting…
February 16th, 2009
9:35 am
I could be wrong-but didn't Soriano have a cold or some bug at the beginning of last spring training? I know he is on the record of saying he doesn't like throwing in Spring Training because he thinks it diminishes his arm strength. Wouldn't surprise me at all if this is the same gig. The worry is he uses the cold to cover elbow pain, which he probably did last year.
February 16th, 2009
9:35 am
I guess it's true that time wounds all heals! I was upset with both sides at the time, but every time I turn around there seems to be another story of Smoltz's bitterness over his break-up with the Braves.
No matter which side you're on, it's becoming evident that the Braves didn't necessarily take for granted that he'd come back no matter what. It's looking very much like they offered him everything they could comfortably afford to offer him under the circumstances of returning from surgery at a ripe old age.
Even though some still harbor ill feelings toward Glavine for having left for the Mets, he apparently isn't just talking about retiring a Brave. He's not rolling over, yet he's working hard to make it happen.
Good luck, John. I'm still a fan, but I'd love it if you answered reporters with a simple, "I play for the Red Sox now. Next question." It's spring training – time to dwell on the future, NOT the past!
February 16th, 2009
9:51 am
Good to hear from ya! Oh yeah, I'm ready! Can't wait till April…should be fun!
I'll do my best! I'm sure we'll be attending some games. I've always had a desire to go to a minor league game–heard they're lots of fun.
Just copy the link from your address bar and paste it in the comment box–conveniently simple. Huh, not like bolditizing words…but I've come up with a copy-and-paste plan that might make that aspect of the Blog a tad-bit more simple.
BT Possibility of four future hall of famers in the lineup at the same time. Glavine, Griffey, Chipper, McCann (just for McFann).
Eh, not just for me…if he keeps up with the numbers he's put up in his early career, he'll make it. And I can't wait to see his defense this year. I almost hope the Reaper gets on base in his first AB on Opening Day, just to see how it goes if he takes off…
…but I don't think I'll go that far.
February 16th, 2009
9:52 am
Spring Training on! So very happy we're not exclusively talking Hot Stove anymore. (That said, I really really hope we land Griffey. That really feels like the right move for where they have him pencilled in.)
And nice new pic, David. You clean up well. Next time, we want one of YOUR tats. The "Man In Black" blog needs your "Man In Black" ink on display, yes?
February 16th, 2009
10:01 am
Soriano had stomach ailments. You can read the gorrie details in Dave's March 4, 2008 blog when he pointed to his elbow and said, "no mas".
February 16th, 2009
10:03 am
Tom Glavine didn't bolt to the Mets. The Braves failed to offer him what he was worth. This is well documented.
February 16th, 2009
10:06 am
February 16th, 2009
10:06 am
What has been the biggest problem for the Braves the last few years not making the playoffs….injuries. So now Wren wants to sign a 42 year old Glavine coming off, you guessed it, injury and a 39 year old Griffey who's middle name is injury? People are falling in love with names and not reality. Whats the one thing people say about Jr. "if he didn't get hurt so much, he'd be the all-time leading home run hitter." I would feel a lot more comfortable with a Hanson/Abreu combo than a Glavine/Griffey duo….and from what i've seen, they could have signed Abreu. Just my two cents.
February 16th, 2009
10:08 am
Smoltz is bashing the Braves on ESPN's cable crawl!
February 16th, 2009
10:09 am
I don't understand what the braves are doing with this roster. First they trade away Flowers (too much) to the White Sox for Javy Vasquez who is under contract for only two years. I kind of like the move for the Japaneese guy, but that is not without risk, especially at 3 years 9 mil per. I do not like the signing of Lowe for 4 years, especially at 15 mil per. I do not understand why the braves are so hard up to bring Glavine back for the 5th starter's spot when Hanson is supposed to be the next big thing.
I also do not understand where Ken Griffey helps us. He only slugged .424 with half his games in a HITTERS Park. At least Franceour played most of his games in 'pitchers' parks (no excuse, but still). The braves hit right handers much better than lefties over the years. The lineup is way, way too left handed as it is currently constructed (it was last year too). The only two pure everyday right handed hitters are Frenchy and Escobar and Chipper is no where near the power threat from the right side.
I do not want to come off as bashing Chipper Jones, best Brave of all time, and still a whale of a hitter. The fact is Chipper Jones should not be asked to carry the offense like he has been asked to the last two years. It is the Organization's fault with how they use him. He needs too much time off to be a 3 or 4 hole guy. If Braves Organization had not made bone headed moves, maybe they could have developed/signed a hitter or two to where Chipper could hit (and stroke it from 2 or 5 or 6 in the lineup.
I still do not understand not getting Peavy or a bat in the offseason. Make the deal, there were guys out there to fill in the rotation at reasonable prices for multiple years. It just seems that if Atlanta was so high on Hanson, then maybe he should be the guy to beat in spring for the 4th or 5th spot in the rotation. The braves bid against themselves for Lowe and they gave up too much for Vasquez. The braves could have had Garland for less than Vasquez on the FA market. They could have took a flyer on Tim Redding or Randy Johnson like they are doing on the Japaneese guy. Maybe you get Peavy in the deal, sign Lowe cheaper and add a Garland/Redding or Glavine/Johnson on the cheap and Run the 'three man weave' in the OF with Diaz, Schaffer, and Anderson in CF and LF saving some money on Griffey Jr. Or sign a big bat (Manny) or trade for Holiday or Nady and then SIGN them even at a over kill price, (kind of like they did with Lowe)and use Reyes, Morton, Campillo or Bennett and your bullpen to win games until the possiblity of Huddy being back in August.
Again maybe I don't understand the ins and outs of this thing, but overall, this roster is not ready to compete for anything as it is constructed right now. The way it was constructed is more worrisome than the actual roster. Wren seened to throw junk against the wall and went with what stuck. He went after Burnett, but underbid. He went after Furcal, but underbid/didn't negoiate right or got hosed, whatever. Things talked about included moving KJ to LF and trading for Brian Roberts, they talked about Abreu and Dunn, or a trade for Nady/Swisher, now Griffey. No other team in baseball whether in rumor or fact seemed to be linked to so many moves that didn't work out, and that leaves an impression that the offseason plan was not well concieved or this team has too many holes to compete.
I hope I am wrong, and I hope I have a better summer than last with this team.
February 16th, 2009
10:11 am
Let the And Idiots from ESPN predict whatever they want. They are always wrong anyway.
MarcL had the best idea. Don't bother watching Kirkjan and the rest of the clueless multitude employed by ESPN.
February 16th, 2009
10:14 am
Some of John's remarks are within this article from the Boston Herald.
February 16th, 2009
10:17 am
raymond and John Quest – Go check your passport/s. I think they will say USA, be positive men
If Diaz is really fit and we add JR, that will be a nice line up, add the kids Schafer and Josh Anderson (who impressed me 2008) and we will be ready to rock n roll….
"Shake and Bake"
BTW, the missus made me go and see "He's not that into you" yesterday, almost puked, so schmaltzy, an absolute dogs bollocks film…
They should rename it "If you bring him to this flick he's gonna kill you"…
February 16th, 2009
10:18 am
Agreed, tr… Smoltz is used to being the beloved local hero, and he's neither one (yet) to the Sox Nation. We all know how crazy the NY/Boston media can be. If they smell blood, they'll play Smoltz like he just came up from Pawtucket. The dude will run his mouth, so this could be a very interesting year…
February 16th, 2009
10:20 am
stupup74, what part of the fact that Peavy did not want to be a Braves don't you get?
February 16th, 2009
10:22 am
To those talking about what Smoltz had to say it is like a divorce. You never knew what a real jerk you are until you hear what your ex wife has to say.
February 16th, 2009
10:25 am
BT – I miss my ex-wife!
But my aim is getting better!
February 16th, 2009
10:26 am
DAVID…awesome that you could get kelly to come on the blog. can't wait!
February 16th, 2009
10:27 am
dogsbrekky- I have a problem with signing players past their prime, plus I feel Bobby Cox does a better job managing younger players. I'd rather see the front office promote the AAA/AA talent instead of trading them away for other players past their prime. The majors are full of All-Star ex-Braves.
February 16th, 2009
10:27 am
I approve of the Braves interest in both Glavine and Griffey. With Glavine, you have a guy who historically has avoided injuries, he's an important piece of Braves history, he will be a good influence on the young starters, and he has the potential to win a lot of games at a fair price. If he gets hurt (and anyone can get hurt) then they will have backup options. He's worth the chance and he deserves the chance. Smoltz deserved the same chance and a better offer, but let's not go there right now. With Griffey, you have a guy who historically has killed right handed pitching, he's a hall of famer, he'll help put butts in the seats, and has the potential to make a great platoon with Diaz while also helping the young outfielders and giving them time to develop. He's just a high quality guy, as is Glavine. Mentally tough. Both moves make a lot of sense to me. Go Braves.
February 16th, 2009
10:27 am
Stupup74 – your post is an epic mess that needs to somehow fit under the rug.
February 16th, 2009
10:27 am
Steup, all I can say is I am glad you are not running the team. Wren isn't playing with monopoly money. Would you have had Wren sign Manny? Where exactly were we supposed to get a typical cleanup hitter with our budget?
Also, whether or not Hanson will be ready this year should have no bearing on whether he is expendable. It's interesting to me that you are loathe to give up an unproven prospect (Flowers) in a blocked position (McCann) for a work horse pitcher who has led the league in strike outs. Our rotation desperately needed stability-yet you object to that move. However, when it comes to a pitcher with a questionable elbow and questionable stats away from Petco, you were ready to trade away a potential future ace. Sounds reasonable.
I'd also like to nominate this for sentence of the year:
Maybe you get Peavy in the deal, sign Lowe cheaper and add a Garland/Redding or Glavine/Johnson on the cheap and Run the 'three man weave' in the OF with Diaz, Schaffer, and Anderson in CF and LF saving some money on Griffey Jr.
Great call. I propose this instead though. How bout we trade for Sabathia on the cheap, sign Tex for 10 years at 5 mil per year, do the two step shuffle with David Wright (for cheap) and Chipper, and then lock up Brade Lidge for milk and potatoes.
February 16th, 2009
10:28 am
Good morning & have a great spring, KJ! Just getting a head start!
February 16th, 2009
10:29 am
Hey DOB, with the relatively cheap contracts being talked about right now for Griffey and Glavine; Is there any chance that there will be enough money left over to re-sign Will Ohman?
Or are the Braves comfortable with O'Flaherty, Ridgway, and Logan competing for that LOOGY spot? I know I would rather have Ohman especially since those other three guys still have options and would still be retained if they didin't make the team(unless there isn't enough room on the 40-man roster)
February 16th, 2009
10:29 am
Hey DOB, is Kelly going to have a gray background on his posts as well like yours or how will we tell its him?
February 16th, 2009
10:34 am
I really hope that Smoltz can learn to shut his mouth! I think Chipper's comments on this subject are about as fair and neutral as possible. Smoltz should just accept things and move on and stop trowing rocks.
The more dirt that Smoltz throws, the more he starts to PO the folks in Atlanta. The more of PO'ed people in Atlanta get, the more anti John Smoltz stories will start coming out.
And believe me, there are a lot of negative John Smoltz stories.
My hope is that Smoltz can have a good year with Boston, the Braves have a good year with their new folks and all of this negative stuff can just go away.
February 16th, 2009
10:35 am
Stupup, you got what you hoped for…. you are wrong…. as Bravesgal has already pointed out… and I am sure many others will as well. It may not turn out to be as great a team as many believe it to be, but your assessment of some of the things that have happened are not accurate.
February 16th, 2009
10:39 am
I'm very disappointed in John Smoltz. He made the decision to leave the Braves and his continued bashing smacks of childishness.
February 16th, 2009
10:42 am
If the Braves do indeed sign both Griffey and Glavine in the coming days, it will be interesting to see what the two corresponding roster moves on the 40 Man will be.
With it currently full 2 moves will have to be made.
My guess would be the two names most likely to go unclaimed through the waiver process, Clint Sammons and a pitcher most likely<strongAnthony Lerew
February 16th, 2009
10:44 am
What did John Smoltz say that was so bad? I have read the articles and I can't find anything necessarily wrong with what he said.
February 16th, 2009
10:45 am
BravesFanINRockies-Dude, I'll go out on a limb and make a deal with you. I will put up the Wurlitzer Portrait of your choice (call it the Proving Lew Wrong Wurlitzer) on a bet that Francoeur comes back and puts up AT LEAST 07 numbers this year-I'm that certain he will be on a mission. Give some thought to what you would like to lose on a bet of this nature.
Now Smoltz-Just be glad y'all don't live in New England. He was front and center on the local Sports page here in Vermont the other day-P!$$!ng and moaning about how shabbily the Braves treated him. The people up here actually believe they got the Smoltz of 96 and will be the final piece guaranteeing them the World Series Title. He damn well better hope he comes back strong or he will definitely find out what Fan Hatred can be. Time for him to just STFU and rehab quietly.
February 16th, 2009
10:46 am
John Quest – fair point
All this talk of bloody ex wives, I only talk to mine when she needs $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$, funny that
Kelly Johnson – rock n roll in 2009, loved the way you crushed them at the end of 2008…… let's hope Frenchy and young Schafer can follow your lead…
February 16th, 2009
10:52 am
Correct me if I'm wrong (like that needs to be said on this blog), but wasn't the Braves agreement with Smoltz that they would make him a contract offer if and when he was ready to pitch?
The Sox put it in writing that Smoltz would not pitch in games until June. So maybe Smoltz is all jacked up because he could not make the Braves make their offer based on his timetable.
February 16th, 2009
10:52 am
Dogsbrekky-Dude, you certainly have a way with words-must be that Aussie upbringing. How long have you been married? After almost 35 years, when my wife suggests going to see a movie like you mentioned or (arrrrgh) that thing about Abba, I can just laugh and ask her what alternate reality she's in if she thinks I'll be going to that one with her. You need to teach her that taking you to these events will do nothing but make you so miserable that she will likely also suffer. Works for me.
February 16th, 2009
10:55 am
Come on guys, cut me some slack. It looks like it'll be at least June before Sox fans can show me (and my HOF slider) the love I need and deserve! Gotta get my props from sympathetic reporters in the meantime!
P.S. The Braves took me for granted after the first three times I was a FA!
February 16th, 2009
10:55 am
yeah, still waiting for Smoltz to say something that offends me as a brave fan.
February 16th, 2009
11:00 am
Keylargo, that was my understanding as well. I don't know what went on behind closed doors, but I was more than a little surprised when John began pushing the Braves so soon. It had been stated much earlier that they would want to wait to see !) when he would be ready, later they added 2) when they had gotten the two top pitchers they were working so hard to get. I was very disappointed that he wanted to be a distraction to that process. It was my understanding that he was in agreement with the wait and see arrangement.
February 16th, 2009
11:08 am
Btw, New blog is up…. KJ is coming.
February 16th, 2009
11:10 am
Bravesgal: Remember earlier in the process, Peavy waived the clause for a few teams, one of which was the Braves. The Padres GM wanted Hanson in the deal and then kept upping the price rumored to be because Wren wouldn't budge on Hanson. (Time will tell if Wren is right on that one and I will give Wren benefit of the doubt in the short term).
Epinephrine: Not all those moves mentioned are not all at once, there is a lot of if/then in the move. I write with my heart sometimes, not with my head. However the Braves had 40 something mil under budget in the offseason. IN THEORY: they could have made Manny a two year 45-48 mil, front loaded offer for Manny and still added a couple of guys in the 7 mil a year randge for the rotation. Garland signed one year wwith and option at 7.25 mil this year, Unit was one year 8 mil, Redding was one year 2.25 mil. Glavine is looking at no more than 2 mil a year and the braves and fans are hard up for him. Even with 25mil for Manny any two of the afore mention pitchers the braves are close to, if not under 'apparent' budget. (These alternatives to the signings of Lowe and the import, and the trade of Vasquez.) Maybe you don't get Manny, but maybe you trade for a bat, Jermaine Dye, maybe Holliday, etc, not of which are going to command the Tex/Manny type money in this economy next year, it ain't going to happen.
I did not mean to ramble in my post earlier, but the braves HAD the money to upgrade the rotation AND get a legit bat for the OF (probably not Manny, but someone. They blew it on a overpriced Lowe signing and a bad trade for Vasquez who is making about 4 mil over the market rate for a pitcher with his pedigree.
I guess I could have summed up my previous post like this: Go Big or Go home. Get Chipper some help and give us a reason to come to the ballpark and watch. If you are going to gamble, then gamble big and shoot for the stars once in awhile. I'm tired of seeing them gamble on over the hill vets health.
February 16th, 2009
11:23 am
I'm going to laugh my a@# off at all the bloggers who say the Braves did this wrong, that wrong when they end up winning the division, get into the playoffs and possibly the WS.
Look at the Cubs last year. They were all but expected to go all the way to the WS because it had been 100 years since they had won the WS…but guess what……it didn't happen. Things happen when ya least expect them to.
The Braves aren't expected to do much this year. So I say, let the naysayers say this, that, etc. Let's get this ball rolling and go play some ball.
Btw, anyone want to discuss who's going to win the other NL divisions?
I think with the addition of Milton Bradley…..I think the Cubs will take the Central again and if the Giants sign Manny…..they may have what it might take to win the West.
February 16th, 2009
11:33 am
Hey, where did everybody go? I mean, why chat with KJ when I'm over on this blog?
February 16th, 2009
11:38 am
Hey Smotzy, Hows the recession coming along (hair)?


text:
Paramore | Brand New Eyes Intro
So your father told you once
that you were his princess
You won't see the castle
you cannot find your prince
Now you've grown a lot
and your dresses don't fit right
Daddy's not a hero
he stole your chariot
So here you are in pieces
trying to prove to us it's real
The softness of your smile
and the lies you want to feel
And the scales beneath your skin
are showing off today
There's evil in your heart
and it wants out
There's evil in your heart
and it wants out to play
There's evil in your heart
And I have made a home here, for me
Don't burn it down with your fantasy
And I have made a home here, for me
Don't burn it down with your fantasies
(Source: the-paramorism)
Reblog this if you want to be on my favorites page! I'll choose the people on Tuesday!
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- No likes
- Reblog as many times as you want