1. Martin Prado: Since becoming a mainstay in the lineup, Prado has provided the Braves with a much-needed 'utility infielder.' But it became a 2-for-1 special when he got hot at the plate. Not only is he solid at the plate, but he can play ANYWHERE in the infield. This gives Bobby the option to give Chipper an extra day off here and there, and plug him into 2B, where Kelly Johnson was floundering (mostly at the plate.)
2. Nate McClouth: Possibly the most underestimated player in the starting lineup, McClouth hit the ground running when he arrived in Atlanta a few short months ago from Pittsburgh. He added something to the lineup that the Bravos needed since Furcal left for Hollywood -- SPEED! Have you seen this guy run? His speed is also a factor defensively. McClouth covers a lot of ground out there. Plus, he reminds me of David Eckstein, a true gamer who never slows down.
3. Tommy Hanson and Jair Jurrgens: Really, I could list the entire Braves pitching staff, but since these two were the biggest 'surprises', I mention them. Hanson is something special. Unfortunately, for Hanson and Jurrgens alike, they haven't always
gotten the run support needed to show big numbers. But Hanson has an advantage as a rookie ... our opponents (namely our Philly counterparts who pose the biggest threat) haven't quite figured him out yet. He still has that new car smell! Both of these guys will have to be as good as they have been all year for the Braves to have any kind of post-season berth.4. Fightin Phils aside, the NL East is pretty weak: I am nervous about saying this with so much baseball left to be played, but there is nobody else in the NL East other than Philidelphia that I see posing a threat to the Braves as far as winning the division goes. And as far as the Wild Card goes, I don't see that spot being represented by an NL East team, that will probably be reserved for the Central. And good, let 'em have it. If the Braves make it to October, I want them there outright, no Wild Card BS. It's unlikely the Marlins will make a good run for it, and notice I don't even broach the Nationals. Other than Philly, that leaves the Braves, and maybe, just maybe, the Mets. But the Mets have been plagued this season with injuries and errors. Bottom line, if the Braves stay hot, maybe the Phils will cool off and we will gain some ground on them. The key: to beat the Phils in head-on competition and take car of business.
5. Chipper and Yunel: You didn't think I would forget, did you? Both of these guys have a key role in the batting lineup, but just as important, they make a great team on the right side of the infield. It goes without saying that Chipper is a hall-of-famer on and off the field, but partnered with the Yunel, not much gets through on that side. Both are gold-glove defensive players, who have produced some plays this
year that moved me to applause. Chipper's leadership also plays a big factor in the morale of the team. If he leads, they will follow. And Yunel's feisty personality gives the Braves the spark they need. Nothing like a hot-headed Cuban to bring a little life into a clubhouse. And the leadership and the spark combined will become increasingly more important as the season goes on. A positive mental state is a big part of performance. ***COMING SOON***
** 40 days and counting until College Football kicks off. Who will be the 'Wild Card' in the the SEC this year? Who has some work to do? And who will dominate this tough conference? DREAMS IN THE DOME: Who shows up BIG on opening day ... Bama or Va. Tech? Remember what happened last year when the ACC went head-on against Bama on opening day in the Dome? Will this year be a repeat, or does Va. Tech have a bone to pick?
** The Cubs are hot ... FOR NOW. But how long until they implode like so many years before?
** Milwaukee's own "Happy Youngster" is pissing people off all over the Cheese State. But does it matter? How much longer will the Brewers be relevant in the NL Central race anyway?
** The Machine, breaking down? NEVER, but he will be a free agent at some point? Do the Cards love him enough to shell out the dough, if not, who are the likely contenders to bid on Pujols. But, but, but, noooooooo, Al must stay in St. Louis! I will tell you why!
** Where the hell is Tim Hudson? The status of what could be a pitching weapon for the Braves ... if he ever returns. But if he comes back, who leaves? Nooo, don't say it... Hanson?
** Time for some good ol fashioned Manny bashing. This guy bothers me so much. Manny being Manny ... well if Manny is a complete pre-madonna with no class, no brains and absolutely NO integrity, than yes ... Manny being Manny.
Until then, Go Braves, Roll Tide, and AND MAY THE BEST TEAM WIN!!!!
