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What to See and Do in Atlanta

admin — Sat, 31 Mar 2012 00:00:00 +0000

Sure you can catch the Braves on your www.Direct.tv channels but why not take a trip down to Atlanta to take in a game or two? Turner Field is one of the best baseball stadiums in the country and it’s right in the heart of Hotlanta where there’s plenty to do! Here are a few of our must-sees in Atlanta:
The Varsity – You won’t find Georgia fried chicken here but you will find some of the best drive-in food in the country. “What’ll ya have?” is the mantra and your answer should be some combination of a chili dog, a chili steak and of course, an orange slush.
Centennial Olympic Park – It’s been over 15 years since the Olympics made their way to Atlanta but Centennial Park is still alive and well as an urban oasis. Catch a concert or just stroll around – it’s a great way to see the skyline.
World of Coke – Who doesn’t love Coca Cola? The world of Coke allows you to try dozens of flavors and with so many different exhibits dedicated to the fizzy stuff you might learn something, too!

Who’s the 2011 Braves MVP: McCann, Prado, Uggla, Freeman?

admin — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 00:00:00 +0000

When it comes to the discussion of who should be titled as the Braves MVP for the 2011 season, there are several names that enter the mix. The backstop Brian McCann, utility man Martin Prado, new acquisition Dan Uggla, and rookie Freddie Freeman all deserve consideration, but only one can truly be titled MVP.

In past seasons, McCann would be the obvious choice. Unfortunately, due to injuries that caused him to miss some games, and the fact that his numbers arent quite where we expect them to be, we can conclude that it has not been his year. Fortunately, Braves fans can count on McCann to be a stud for years to come, as well as a backbone for the team.

Last year Prado may have very well been called the MVP, but that is not the case in 2011. His slumping batting average compared to the last couple seasons is problematic and other crucial stats leave something to be desired as well. Hopefully next year he returns as a constant threat at the top of the lineup.

Uggla has had an absolutely sensational second half. His 33 game hit streak was absolutely phenomenal and will go down in Braves history. If we were giving out an award for post All-Star game MVP, he would claim it easily, but lets face it, Uggla had an absolutely horrendous first half and is thus disqualified.

This brings us to young Freddie Freeman. Despite a slow start, the rookie has turned into a rock that the Braves have relied heavily upon. His constant production and solid numbers across the board should not only get him the title for team MVP for 2011, but also earn him the National League Rookie of the Year award. Braves fans look forward to Freemans talent being a constant presence on the field for many years.

Rookie Craig Kimbrel, Already the Best Atlanta Reliever Ever?

admin — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 00:00:00 +0000

Craig Kimbrel has already made a name for himself among the best rookie closers of all time. With an over powering mid to upper 90-s fastball and a power slider to boot, Kimbrel has taken the Brave nation by storm with his ability to set down the opposing team in order when on the mound. Kimbrel recently set the major league record for number of saves as a rookie at 41, previously set by Neftali Perez in 2010 with 40 saves.

Kimbrel has been touted as a high powered closer since he began his career in the Braves minor league programs. Where as many stud relievers begin as starters and move into relief as their career progresses so there isn-t too much initial over-exertion on the young players arms, Kimbrel jumped into the closer’s role with a high level of success.

Kimbrel is known as a pitcher that doesn-t get himself into too much trouble by walking opponents, much like former Braves, Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine, and John Smoltz. Many will argue any one of these three pitchers could amount to the best Atlanta pitcher of all time. These three pitchers got the most out of their ability and pitched well into their later years. Craig Kimbrel is rocking and rolling out on the mound right now and with continued consistency and injury free years, there is no reason he can-t be considered the best Atlanta pitcher of all time when his career is over.

When Will OF Jason Heyward Fulfill All the Hype?

admin — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 +0000

Jason Heyward burst onto the scene in Atlanta, and many people believed the hype and ran with it. The problem with hype is it never factors in reality, and that can be discouraging to sports fans. When will OF Jason Heyward fulfill all the hype? The truth is he will eventually, but rushing him is not the answer for Atlanta Braves baseball fans. Let us look at what you can realistically expect from Jason Heyward.

Baseball fans must remember many things about Jason Heyward before they get discouraged with his slow progress. No matter if they are a cannot miss prospect or not it takes time for them to grasp the Major League game. Heyward had no college baseball experience and is only 22 years of age. It takes time to learn pitchers and the game.

In 2010, Jason Heyward had a good season with 18 home runs and 72 RBI’s, but in 2011, it has been a struggle. Pitchers are learning what to pitch to Heyward and he has to learn to make adjustments. For some players they can do it quicker than others can. Give Jayson Heyward time to grow as a player, and you will be happy with the end product. Just remember he is only 22 years old and still learning the game of baseball at the Major League level.

Is 1B Freddie Freeman NL Rookie of the Year?

admin — Sun, 11 Sep 2011 00:00:00 +0000

With 18 home runs, 67 runs batted in, a .814 OPS and a .293 batting average, Braves first baseman Freddie Freeman is having a productive year by any standard.
But factor in his age ” 21 ” and the fact that he-s in his first full season in the big leagues and you begin to realize how special Freeman could become.
He leads all major league rookies in batting average, OPS, on base percentage, hits, doubles and runs. If you-re counting just the National League, you can add runs batted in and slugging percentage to the list.
Logically it follows that Freeman is a legitimate contender for National League Rookie of the Year honors.
He-s already claimed the Rookie of the Month award. Freeman swatted six homers and drove in 18 runs while batting .362 in July to claim that distinction.
If the Rookie of the Year award considered only hitters, Freeman would win it hands down.
A few rookie pitchers might challenge Freeman for the award.
His biggest threat may actually come from a teammate. Craig Kimbrel has notched 32 saves, has a 1.00 WHIP and a 2.00 ERA. Kimbrel also earned a trip to the All-Star Game.
Danny Espinosa, of the Nationals, and Antonio Bastardo, of the Phillies, could also make a push for the award.