Asked and answered .. Most likely, no.
Yes, Wood would be odd man out -- as he already was once. But what I'm saying is you would have to be acquiring a top of the rotation guy to make that move and effectively move everybody down a spot, and I don't see the Braves doing that.
Players or coaches? In order: players-builder-coaches. Not sure what's up with B.J. Upton. Issue is in his head. But for most part this team wasn't BUILT with great on-base percentage players. They're streaky hitters. Folks always want to fire the hitting coach or the manager but I don't agree with the way this team was built and I don't like the lack of veteran leadership in the clubhouse.
Right now Braves have rotation of Teheran-Minor-Santana-Harang-Wood. Unless you're getting an ace, I don't see adding a starting pitcher that's going to crack that five. None of those guys are moving to bullpen.
Would you like the Rays' phone number?
I've always felt Gattis could be a valuable trade commodity at some point but I doubt very much that would be now.
Not at all and that would really surprise me, given financial commitment that would take. I suppose if Santana goes on some crazy tear now and into postseason, that could change.
Didn't read rumor but agree that Schafer has been a disappointment at the plate.
Correct -- Wren hasn't won a playoff series. But I don't know how much pressure he feels. That's always tough to gauge with this organization, which doesn't fire a lot of people. May be the subject of future column.
Agree on lack of payroll flexibility. Remember, the Santana signing was not planned. There's no way Bethancourt is traded. Simmons would be more likely if prospect(s) moved. ... And I agree on ceiling for this team, as much as many fans disagree.
A logical question. Just telling you how Wren has operated in past. He usually makes those moves in winter and "tweaks" at deadline.
I think they want to win ASAP if anything BECAUSE of the new stadium and would love to get fans and advertisers excited.
Again, I would be surprised if Wren made a major move, particularly for an "ace." He's not a guy who gives up a lot of assets at trade deadline.
Lester would be great but question is what Braves would have to give up. Could be competition for him.
No. Let the "Trade B.J." dream die. He's not going anywhere.
Bethancourt is definitely the catcher of future and I have little doubt Upton is not re-signing here. So obviously spot will be open. But other variables between now and then.
The fact Doumit is the backup first baseman on the depth chart tells you about the situation. I'm sure somebody else could move over there in a pinch but FF is the everyday guy.
Most likely candidates probably Doumit (because they don't need a third catcher) or Gosselin. Would be surprised to see a "name" guy go. Somebody like Jordan Schafer doesn't have trade value.
I'm not sure that they'll make a trade but would imagine if they do it'll be a minor deal for a bat on the bench, or bullpen help.
OK, ready to take questions. For person who sent me question on bench players, please resend.
Hi Braves fans (some of whom should be working instead of doing a live chat with me ... but no worries I won't tell). I'm here to respond to your questions/thoughts on the Braves for the next hour or so. So fill up the inbox and I'll get to as many as I can, starting at 11:30. Be forewarned: If you have a screen name that I would rather not see the light of day, I'm not answering your question. As we chat, the Braves are a half-game out of first place in the NL East and begin a West Coast road trip tonight in Los Angeles. We'll start shortly.
