Atlanta Braves News: The Morning Chop Craig Kimbrel Still A Brave
By Jeff Schafer
Kimbrel still a Brave; that’s a good thing, right?
Tomahawk Take Editor’s Note: The Atlanta Braves front office traded away many fan favorites this offseason but don’t forget the names of Freddie Freeeman, Andrelton Simmons and Craig Kimbrel. Kimbrel is still the best closer in the game and shows no signs of slowing down. The Braves win total may be down in 2015 but don’t expect to see Kimbrel not get his statistics and help the Braves out late in games.
"Having a lethal closer and, better yet, proven arms to handle the seventh through ninth innings if needed, is one way to prevent demoralizing defeats for a team that can’t afford to lose games it should win after building a lead. Because it’s going to lose a whole lot of games it should lose. You follow me? I’m saying the comeback wins don’t figure to be abundant this year. So, at least prevent the other team from coming back at your expense. But that’s just my opinion. Maybe you disagree? Then vote in the poll on the left side of the blog.The other thing is, the Braves don’t intend to be as bad this year as a lot of people think, and they certainly don’t plan on being non-contenders for as long as some believe they will be. They want to be major players in 2017, as in World Series contenders. Don’t know about that, but I think they could be pretty good as soon as ’16 if a few things go their way and a few players develop quickly, such as leadoff man/second baseman Jose Peraza and a few other prospects they acquired this winter, particularly a couple of big-time pitchers."
What to make of the 2015 Atlanta Braves
Tomahawk Take Editor’s Note: One great thing about baseball is that the score is not decided by a piece of paper…it’s decided on the field. The Braves front office seems like they have confidence in the guys they traded/signed and we should too. ESPN said last week that they predicted the Braves to have 73.5 wins in 2015 but who’s to say they won’t win more…I think they will.
"Thankfully Atlanta still holds a very good starting rotation with Julio Teheran and a healthy Mike Minor at the top end along with newly acquired Shelby Miller via the Jason Hayward deal. Craig Kimbrel is the class of the closer’s in the MLB with simply the best gas coming out of the bullpen. There is reason to believe their rotation will be very good as it has been for the past 25 years. It is what Atlanta takes pride in. The offense will be the reason why Atlanta finishes under .500 by Septembers end. Freddie Freeman is one of the best young players in the game and the face of the Atlanta franchise. The problem is outside of Freddie, where does the the run production come from?Newly signed Eric Young Jr. brings some ability to steal bases, but just doesn’t get on the bags enough to become a threat. Only batting .229 in 2014. Eric Young Jr. plans to platoon left field with whatever may be left in Johnny Gomes career at age 34 with very poor production in 2014."
Rome Braves Mascots Romey and Roxie Married
Tomahawk Take Editor’s Note: If you’re as confused about this headline as I am, then you’re probably in the boat with most of us. A promotional wedding to gain attention for the team…OK, cool. A reception to honor the newly wedded couple will be held Thursday February 12th at the Three Rivers Club, State Mutual Stadium from 3:00-6:00pm.
"The Rome Braves announce that mascots Roxie and Romey were married at 5pm Saturday, January 31st, 2015, on the banks of the Etowah River in a private ceremony.Homer the Brave performed the double-ring ceremony before an altar adorned with votive candles and magnolia leaves.A program of wedding music was provided by the Atlanta Braves Heavy Hitters. Selections included “We Will Rock You” by Queen, “Take me out to the Ballgame”, “Centerfield” by John Fogerty, and of course the Tomahawk Chop. The wedding march was played by Rome Braves organist Ruby Marquard."