By Russ Ragan
I really debated on whether to talk baseball this week, but I decided to go ahead anyway. If you can watch the Braves bullpen pitch regardless of the lead, you are tougher than me. Despite blowing a couple of wins and making some big leads very interesting, the Atlanta lead was still 6.5 games going into the start of a huge home stand against the Mets and Dodgers. Thanks to the Nationals playing no better over their last 10 games, both were at 5-5.
The big story has been the bullpen. They have now had Jackson, Greene, Melancon and now Jackson as the team’s closers, all of the changes have happened in the last two weeks. On the bright side, the offense has been really good and it’s led by the kids. Albies has been really good the last two weeks. He has been 25 for 62 with three homers. The hot streak has put his season average over .300. The only hitter that has been hotter is teammate Ronald Acuna. Acuna has 20 hits with eight homeruns and 16 RBIs. Throw in four stolen bases and its been a good role. He now has 33 homeruns, 80 RBIs and 28 stolen bases. No Brave has ever had a 40 homerun, 40 stolen base season. Not a bad season so far for the 21 year old. Very quietly, Freeman has been very good as well. He has 32 hits the last 14 games with six homeruns and 27 RBIs. He has 29 homeruns and 95 RBIs for the season and better than a .300 average.
Let’s take a look at the young Braves at AAA Gwinnett. Drew Waters has recovered from a slow start and is hitting better than .300 for the season. The other big prospect Cristian Pache is off to a slow start. He is just hitting .228 but it’s way too early to judge as both of them have only played six games at AAA. The big pitcher that made his way to AAA is right-hander Ian Anderson. He got his first win in Gwinnett on Monday in a 3-1 win. He went six innings allowing only three hits and an earned run. Hopefully all three of these young very talented players will play a major role in the 2020 Atlanta season.
One thing about the Falcons’ pre-season, they aren’t giving out any secrets. So far there has been no Matt Ryan, Julio Jones, Calvin Ridley, Sanu or Freeman in pre-season play. Back up quarterback Matt Schaub was much better in the second game. Hopefully some of the stars will get at least a little playing time Thursday night against the Jets. Don’t put anything in the Birds’ pre-season. They have lost 10 in a row. In case you missed it, they traded back up tight end Eric Saubert to the Patriots for a conditional seventh round draft pick. I guess Brady needed a new tight end after Gronkowski retired last year.
Sports
Eastman Heat Wins Tournament
The Eastman Heat travelling basketball teams participated in the KB Sports Gold Championship held on July 27 and 28 in Macon. Three teams from Eastman participated including the middle school girls and boys and the high school girls. The middle school boys and the high school girls both came in first place. A special thanks to Robert Carr for organizing the Heat and for his dedication to the teams. This year coach Carr used the quote from coach John Peacock “All it takes, is all we got” to help motivate the kids. Pictured above (kneeling, l-r) are team members Jaedon McClendon, Cameron Mills and Omari Jackson. Back row (l-r) are Lamarie Mitchell, Sherman Clay, Jr., coach Smoke, Ja’Boree Graham and Keontez Champion.
Team Dodge Wins Memorial Tournament
Team “Dodge” were the winners of the 9th annual Derek “Dee” Taylor Memorial Youth Co-Ed Tournament held at Springdale Park in Dublin on July 27, 2019.
Team members pictured above were Tucker Sheffield, Justin Burse, Cullen Hardy, Scarlett Parkerson, Reaya Dominy, Brandon White, Jada Davis, Gabby Robinson, Cain Mincey and Lily Farrell.
Coaches for the team were Cody Sheffield, David White, Dylan Hardy and Jesse Mincey.
Team members pictured above were Tucker Sheffield, Justin Burse, Cullen Hardy, Scarlett Parkerson, Reaya Dominy, Brandon White, Jada Davis, Gabby Robinson, Cain Mincey and Lily Farrell.
Coaches for the team were Cody Sheffield, David White, Dylan Hardy and Jesse Mincey.
Russ's Sports Review
I said that the July 31 trade deadline would be huge and I think all three trades should work out nicely. Personally, I would have loved one more starter but I will take all three they picked up. The biggest trade was picking up Shane Greene from Detroit. I know he struggled Sunday in particular against the Reds. I really like him. You have to keep in mind that he had very few “pressure” save chances with the last place Tigers who he has been with since 2015. Give him some time to get adjusted to a pennant race and he will be fine. The Braves gave up left-handed pitcher Joey Wentz and infielder Travis Demeritte. Wentz was at one time a huge prospect but it just hasn’t panned out. As for Demeritte, he was a big prospect in Texas before coming to the Braves system. He was good at AAA Gwinnett but I really like the deal for the Braves.
The next trade was a surprise as Atlanta picked up Mark Melancon from the Giants. The veteran has been a closer throughout his career that included the Nationals. He had some health issues the first part of the season but he has really pitched well the last month or so. The player return wasn’t huge. The Braves sent Dan Winkler who was already released by the Giants and Tristan Beck. The main thing Atlanta gave up in the deal was cash as they picked up the 18 million dollars owed to him for the rest of this year and 2020.
If there is one deal that worries me just a little, it’s actually the first one. On Tuesday, the Braves got Chris Martin, a 6-foot, 8-inch right-hander from Texas for one time top prospect Kolby Allard. Unlike the others, Martin is a rental and will be a free agent at the end of the season. Martin will be a set up guy for the Braves. He most certainly will throw strikes as he has four for the entire season. As for Allard, he was a top prospect for the Braves. He struggled as he had a rough start in Atlanta. He has only been so-so for Gwinnet this year. I am sure Martin will help this year but Allard has a chance to have a strong future.
Then there was Monday afternoon. The Braves put starting pitcher Kevin Gausman on waivers. That’s not unusual as that happens in August. A lot of players get put on waivers and get pulled back if claimed. The Reds made a claim on Gausman and the Braves said he is yours! That is unusual and yes the Reds are responsible for the near 3 million left on this year’s contract. That was a bold move by the Braves but I do like it. The Braves made another move on Monday as they signed Lucas Duda to a minor league deal. You remember Duda. Atlanta got him last year. He was sent to Gwinnet to work on his swing. Hopefully he can help in late August. Speaking of minor league contracts, they also signed Lane Adams. He will be exclusively a bench guy with lots of speed. One final move on a very busy Monday. They sent top prospects Cristian Pache, Drew Waters and Ian Anderson to AAA Gwinnet. Pache and Waters are both great outfield prospects while Anderson is the top starting pitching prospect. I think we could see all three in significant roles in 2020.
We will wrap up this week with some sad pro wrestling news. Legendary world champion Harley Race has died. Race was a multi-time NWA World Champion. His feuds with Ric Flair and Dusty Rhodes were legendary. I got the chance to see Race in person one time as he beat Tommy Rich in Macon.
The next trade was a surprise as Atlanta picked up Mark Melancon from the Giants. The veteran has been a closer throughout his career that included the Nationals. He had some health issues the first part of the season but he has really pitched well the last month or so. The player return wasn’t huge. The Braves sent Dan Winkler who was already released by the Giants and Tristan Beck. The main thing Atlanta gave up in the deal was cash as they picked up the 18 million dollars owed to him for the rest of this year and 2020.
If there is one deal that worries me just a little, it’s actually the first one. On Tuesday, the Braves got Chris Martin, a 6-foot, 8-inch right-hander from Texas for one time top prospect Kolby Allard. Unlike the others, Martin is a rental and will be a free agent at the end of the season. Martin will be a set up guy for the Braves. He most certainly will throw strikes as he has four for the entire season. As for Allard, he was a top prospect for the Braves. He struggled as he had a rough start in Atlanta. He has only been so-so for Gwinnet this year. I am sure Martin will help this year but Allard has a chance to have a strong future.
Then there was Monday afternoon. The Braves put starting pitcher Kevin Gausman on waivers. That’s not unusual as that happens in August. A lot of players get put on waivers and get pulled back if claimed. The Reds made a claim on Gausman and the Braves said he is yours! That is unusual and yes the Reds are responsible for the near 3 million left on this year’s contract. That was a bold move by the Braves but I do like it. The Braves made another move on Monday as they signed Lucas Duda to a minor league deal. You remember Duda. Atlanta got him last year. He was sent to Gwinnet to work on his swing. Hopefully he can help in late August. Speaking of minor league contracts, they also signed Lane Adams. He will be exclusively a bench guy with lots of speed. One final move on a very busy Monday. They sent top prospects Cristian Pache, Drew Waters and Ian Anderson to AAA Gwinnet. Pache and Waters are both great outfield prospects while Anderson is the top starting pitching prospect. I think we could see all three in significant roles in 2020.
We will wrap up this week with some sad pro wrestling news. Legendary world champion Harley Race has died. Race was a multi-time NWA World Champion. His feuds with Ric Flair and Dusty Rhodes were legendary. I got the chance to see Race in person one time as he beat Tommy Rich in Macon.
DEE'S BOYS WIN ANNUAL SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT
The annual Dee Taylor/Derek Taylor Memorial softball tournament was held on Saturday, July 27th at Springdale Park in Dublin. Dee’s Boys (special friends of Dee) won the tournament again this year. Special thanks to Keith Peterson for organizing the tournament, to all the volunteers (scorekeepers, umpires and concessions) and to Jordy Gray from Dublin/Laurens County Recreation Department. Pictured above are the team members (front row, l-r) are Kat McGlamry, Cynthia Stinson, Blakelyn Bundick, Margaret Simmons, Chelsey Peterson, Morgan Page and Madison Peterson and (back row, l-r) are Christopher Peterson, Bucky McGlamry, Tyler Pruett, Cain Peterson, Alex Conley, Chris Holder and Tyler Peterson.
Russ's Sports Review
Late July and early August is always a special time for sports fans. It’s the trade deadline for baseball fans and it’s summer practice for all football fans. August kicks off for the Falcons as they play the Broncos in the Hall of Fame game. Don’t expect Matt Ryan and company on the field very long. I do expect the Falcons to get superstar wide out Julio Jones signed to a long-term deal.
On the college front, the Dogs hosted six 5-star players and four more 4-star players on official visits. There should be some big announcement real soon. On a sad note, former UGA superstar wide out A.J. Green tore ligaments in his ankle in the first day of practice with the Bengals. He is expected to miss around eight weeks.
Things just seem to get better in Athens. On Monday night, the Dogs got a huge commitment from five-star running back Kendall Milton from California. Georgia pretty much beat out every major college team for him. Milton is considered the fourth best running back recruit. On Saturday, Georgia picked up offensive lineman Chad Lindberg from Texas. He is a four-star lineman in the 2020 class. There were eight other huge players on their official visit to Athens over the weekend.
The trade deadline is a huge day for major league baseball fans. I have high hopes that the Braves make a move for a starter and a big bullpen piece. The injury of Markakis also puts an outfielder in play. I still like getting Greinke and now maybe Peralta from Arizona. I would hate to move Waters but I think I would as long as it’s not for a rental. A bullpen piece would also be nice and there are several out there. I will remind everyone of this, the Braves were “in” on everybody during the off-season and yet they only got Donaldson and that was back in November.
The on field play has only been okay at best. They looked horrible losing a pair at home to last place Detroit. Things looked better as things looked well against the Phillies. The loss of Markakis didn’t help things at all. Playing Inciarte or Duvall every day may or may not work out. Duvall started great with a three-hit night including a long homerun. Things started going bad on Sunday, as they were whipped 9-4 in Philly. Things appeared to be going no better Monday as they were trailing 6-2 in the bottom of the seventh in Washington. A loss will cut the lead to just 4.5 games. I feel like the team needs a boost at the trade deadline. I hate to trade any of the quality prospects but the time is now.
On the college front, the Dogs hosted six 5-star players and four more 4-star players on official visits. There should be some big announcement real soon. On a sad note, former UGA superstar wide out A.J. Green tore ligaments in his ankle in the first day of practice with the Bengals. He is expected to miss around eight weeks.
Things just seem to get better in Athens. On Monday night, the Dogs got a huge commitment from five-star running back Kendall Milton from California. Georgia pretty much beat out every major college team for him. Milton is considered the fourth best running back recruit. On Saturday, Georgia picked up offensive lineman Chad Lindberg from Texas. He is a four-star lineman in the 2020 class. There were eight other huge players on their official visit to Athens over the weekend.
The trade deadline is a huge day for major league baseball fans. I have high hopes that the Braves make a move for a starter and a big bullpen piece. The injury of Markakis also puts an outfielder in play. I still like getting Greinke and now maybe Peralta from Arizona. I would hate to move Waters but I think I would as long as it’s not for a rental. A bullpen piece would also be nice and there are several out there. I will remind everyone of this, the Braves were “in” on everybody during the off-season and yet they only got Donaldson and that was back in November.
The on field play has only been okay at best. They looked horrible losing a pair at home to last place Detroit. Things looked better as things looked well against the Phillies. The loss of Markakis didn’t help things at all. Playing Inciarte or Duvall every day may or may not work out. Duvall started great with a three-hit night including a long homerun. Things started going bad on Sunday, as they were whipped 9-4 in Philly. Things appeared to be going no better Monday as they were trailing 6-2 in the bottom of the seventh in Washington. A loss will cut the lead to just 4.5 games. I feel like the team needs a boost at the trade deadline. I hate to trade any of the quality prospects but the time is now.
Lady Indians split games to open summer league
By Russ Ragan
The Dodge High Lady Indians opened their summer league play last week in Dublin. Dodge beat Vidalia 5-1 in game one. They lost a 4-3 decision to ECI in game two.
Brooke Perdue got the win in game one. She walked only one and struck out two. Ava Roland had a double and a stolen base and scored on a ground ball from Logan White.
Dylana Barton drove in Gracie Lewis with a single in the second. Carson Ethridge drove in a pair of runs in the fifth. Barton drove in Bailey Harvey to wrap up the scoring in game one.
Ava Roland had a double and two runs batted in in game two. The regular season will start on August 8 against Perry.
The Dodge High Lady Indians opened their summer league play last week in Dublin. Dodge beat Vidalia 5-1 in game one. They lost a 4-3 decision to ECI in game two.
Brooke Perdue got the win in game one. She walked only one and struck out two. Ava Roland had a double and a stolen base and scored on a ground ball from Logan White.
Dylana Barton drove in Gracie Lewis with a single in the second. Carson Ethridge drove in a pair of runs in the fifth. Barton drove in Bailey Harvey to wrap up the scoring in game one.
Ava Roland had a double and two runs batted in in game two. The regular season will start on August 8 against Perry.
Russ's Sports Review
The Falcons have just reported to summer camp but it will be a quick turnaround. The Falcons will play the Denver Broncos on Thursday night, August 1st. I am sure the starters will get very little playing time at all in the matchup that saw the birds lose in their first Super Bowl game. They did get more good news as Deion Jones has signed a new four-year deal worth 57 million and 34 million will be guaranteed. That deal was doable due to the long-term extension of Grady Jarrett. The next big deal on the agenda will be an extension of super star wide out Julio Jones. I expect a four-year deal worth better than 20 million per season.
The final major was played on the PGA tour as the British Open was played over the weekend. Hometown boy Shane Lowry won but to me that wasn’t the big story. It was the story of Phil Mickelson and Tiger Woods. This was the 83rd major that the pair had played in the same major.
This was the first time that both had missed the cut in the same major. Granted, I am a huge Phil fan but I am afraid that the pair of legends are at the end of their hall of fame ropes. They both have won this year but it is painfully obvious the best is well behind them. They can both win again but it will not be often. The big question is what will Phil do when he turns 50 next June? Will he give the senior tour a try?
We are exactly one week out from the July 31 trade deadline, so what will the Braves do? They have a 60-41 record, which is good for a 6.5 lead going into Tuesday night’s play against Kansas City. They have to get a pitcher or hopefully two but what are they willing to give up? Drew Waters, Cristian Pache and Ian Anderson are the top three prospects in the organization.
Honestly, I don’t think Pache or Anderson are going anywhere unless deGrom is offered and I honestly do not see that happening. The starters that I think are available are Stroman, Greinke and probably Bumgarner. It is unlikely but what about Greinke? He is owed a pile of money. If they could work the money, he would be fabulous for this franchise. Put him with Kuechel, Soroka, Teheran and possibly Gausman and things would be really strong. Speaking of Gausman, how good was he on Sunday night? Anyway, bullpen help is needed and there are several out there like Giles from Toronto, Greene from Detroit, Yates from San Diego (but warning he could be expensive) and Edwin Diaz from the Mets. Okay I will go out on a limb and make a trade prediction so here we go: the Braves send pitcher Bryse Wilson another small minor league piece and Darren O’Day to offset some salary to Arizona for Greinke and cash. The amount of cash would dictate the quality of the second player involved. Greinke is signed through the 2021 season. He is owed 32 million in 2020 and 2021. He is 35 but he is having a really good year with a 10-4 record with an E.R.A. under 3. I do think we will see a bullpen deal of some sort. I would love to see Giles, Greene or Yates. We will know in one week.
Let’s wrap things up on the local front. Wednesday, July 31 is the deadline to sign up for football and soccer at the Dodge County Recreation Department. You can sign up at Dodge-Recreation.com or call the department at 478-374-4696. Also, moms and dads we still need coaches as well.
The final major was played on the PGA tour as the British Open was played over the weekend. Hometown boy Shane Lowry won but to me that wasn’t the big story. It was the story of Phil Mickelson and Tiger Woods. This was the 83rd major that the pair had played in the same major.
This was the first time that both had missed the cut in the same major. Granted, I am a huge Phil fan but I am afraid that the pair of legends are at the end of their hall of fame ropes. They both have won this year but it is painfully obvious the best is well behind them. They can both win again but it will not be often. The big question is what will Phil do when he turns 50 next June? Will he give the senior tour a try?
We are exactly one week out from the July 31 trade deadline, so what will the Braves do? They have a 60-41 record, which is good for a 6.5 lead going into Tuesday night’s play against Kansas City. They have to get a pitcher or hopefully two but what are they willing to give up? Drew Waters, Cristian Pache and Ian Anderson are the top three prospects in the organization.
Honestly, I don’t think Pache or Anderson are going anywhere unless deGrom is offered and I honestly do not see that happening. The starters that I think are available are Stroman, Greinke and probably Bumgarner. It is unlikely but what about Greinke? He is owed a pile of money. If they could work the money, he would be fabulous for this franchise. Put him with Kuechel, Soroka, Teheran and possibly Gausman and things would be really strong. Speaking of Gausman, how good was he on Sunday night? Anyway, bullpen help is needed and there are several out there like Giles from Toronto, Greene from Detroit, Yates from San Diego (but warning he could be expensive) and Edwin Diaz from the Mets. Okay I will go out on a limb and make a trade prediction so here we go: the Braves send pitcher Bryse Wilson another small minor league piece and Darren O’Day to offset some salary to Arizona for Greinke and cash. The amount of cash would dictate the quality of the second player involved. Greinke is signed through the 2021 season. He is owed 32 million in 2020 and 2021. He is 35 but he is having a really good year with a 10-4 record with an E.R.A. under 3. I do think we will see a bullpen deal of some sort. I would love to see Giles, Greene or Yates. We will know in one week.
Let’s wrap things up on the local front. Wednesday, July 31 is the deadline to sign up for football and soccer at the Dodge County Recreation Department. You can sign up at Dodge-Recreation.com or call the department at 478-374-4696. Also, moms and dads we still need coaches as well.
Derek “Dee” Taylor Memorial Softball Tournament set for July 27 in Dublin
The ninth annual Derek “Dee” Taylor Memorial Softball Tournament will be held on Saturday, July 27, 2019, at the Springdale Park in Dublin.
The annual tournament provide scholarships to students who continue their education after high school and participating in atheletics.
Shirts will be given for first place teams in each division. Concessions will be open.
For more information or to sign your team up, please call Lisa Taylor at 478-951-6047or Keith Peterson at 478-308-3543.
Concessions will be open. Donations to the concessions can be dropped off at Owens-Taylor Barber Shop located on Main Street in Eastman any Thursday or Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 or until noon on Saturday.
Proceeds will benefit the Dee Taylor Memorial Scholarship Funds.
“Motivated by Jesus, dedicated to the game.”
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13
The annual tournament provide scholarships to students who continue their education after high school and participating in atheletics.
Shirts will be given for first place teams in each division. Concessions will be open.
For more information or to sign your team up, please call Lisa Taylor at 478-951-6047or Keith Peterson at 478-308-3543.
Concessions will be open. Donations to the concessions can be dropped off at Owens-Taylor Barber Shop located on Main Street in Eastman any Thursday or Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 or until noon on Saturday.
Proceeds will benefit the Dee Taylor Memorial Scholarship Funds.
“Motivated by Jesus, dedicated to the game.”
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13
Russ's Sports Review
Baseball is back after the all-star break and yes, nothing has changed for the Braves. They are hitting homeruns, getting good starting pitching and the bullpen scares you to death but somehow hangs on to win. All of the above were on full display in San Diego.
The Braves hit six homeruns, which is hard to do in the three-game sweep. Donaldson hit three homeruns and Acuna had two over the weekend. All-star pitcher Mike Soroka was great on Sunday afternoon as he got his tenth win and Dallas Kuechel continues to get better as he looked really good in Friday night’s win.
Then there is the bullpen. Yes, everyone’s cardiac kids made everything interesting. The pen allowed five earned runs compared to just three for the starters over the weekend.
Remember the old saying that good pitching gets out good hitting? Sooner or later the bullpen will have to step it up. That brings things to the July 31 trade deadline. Okay I am not going to change the everyday eight or the bench. Here is where I have questions. For the starting pitching, I like Kuechel and Soroka.
What about the third starter? Since you can make it with three in the playoffs, do you really like Fried or Teheran? I just don’t, sorry! How about that bullpen? Do you like Luke Jackson having to get out the Cubs, Brewers or Dodgers with a one run lead? Better have plenty of Tums on hand. The Braves have some good trade chips in the system and as much as I wouldn’t want to move him, Drew Waters may have to be available.
I like Pache a little more and it looks like he will make it to the majors a little sooner. I think the kid would bring back a nice return but I wouldn’t just let him go for a rental. The lead is seven games going into Milwaukee on Monday night. It will not be easy!
Monday was a big afternoon for the Falcons. It was the deadline for the team to come to terms with star defense tackle Grady Jarrett. He was playing under the franchise tag if a deal couldn’t be reached by 4:00 p.m. on Monday.
The Falcons got under the deadline with just over an hour to spare as they agreed to a four-year deal worth 68 million with 42.5 guaranteed. The deal is probably about right so all should be good in Falcons land. The next deals will probably go to Julio and Deion Jones. The birds go to camp next week.
Let’s wrap things up over seas as Wimbledon played the men’s finals on Sunday with top seeds Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic. It was an epic battle but finally Djokovic won, 7-6, 1-6, 7-6, 4-6 and 13-12. The fifth set was decided by the tiebreaker for the first time in the history of the tournament.
Personally, I do not like a final set tiebreaker. This year was the first year that the final set tiebreaker was in place. It was played at 12 games all instead of the traditional six games all. I still think they should play the final set out.
The Braves hit six homeruns, which is hard to do in the three-game sweep. Donaldson hit three homeruns and Acuna had two over the weekend. All-star pitcher Mike Soroka was great on Sunday afternoon as he got his tenth win and Dallas Kuechel continues to get better as he looked really good in Friday night’s win.
Then there is the bullpen. Yes, everyone’s cardiac kids made everything interesting. The pen allowed five earned runs compared to just three for the starters over the weekend.
Remember the old saying that good pitching gets out good hitting? Sooner or later the bullpen will have to step it up. That brings things to the July 31 trade deadline. Okay I am not going to change the everyday eight or the bench. Here is where I have questions. For the starting pitching, I like Kuechel and Soroka.
What about the third starter? Since you can make it with three in the playoffs, do you really like Fried or Teheran? I just don’t, sorry! How about that bullpen? Do you like Luke Jackson having to get out the Cubs, Brewers or Dodgers with a one run lead? Better have plenty of Tums on hand. The Braves have some good trade chips in the system and as much as I wouldn’t want to move him, Drew Waters may have to be available.
I like Pache a little more and it looks like he will make it to the majors a little sooner. I think the kid would bring back a nice return but I wouldn’t just let him go for a rental. The lead is seven games going into Milwaukee on Monday night. It will not be easy!
Monday was a big afternoon for the Falcons. It was the deadline for the team to come to terms with star defense tackle Grady Jarrett. He was playing under the franchise tag if a deal couldn’t be reached by 4:00 p.m. on Monday.
The Falcons got under the deadline with just over an hour to spare as they agreed to a four-year deal worth 68 million with 42.5 guaranteed. The deal is probably about right so all should be good in Falcons land. The next deals will probably go to Julio and Deion Jones. The birds go to camp next week.
Let’s wrap things up over seas as Wimbledon played the men’s finals on Sunday with top seeds Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic. It was an epic battle but finally Djokovic won, 7-6, 1-6, 7-6, 4-6 and 13-12. The fifth set was decided by the tiebreaker for the first time in the history of the tournament.
Personally, I do not like a final set tiebreaker. This year was the first year that the final set tiebreaker was in place. It was played at 12 games all instead of the traditional six games all. I still think they should play the final set out.
Reserve ticket seating for 2019 football season begins July 22
Beginning July 22, 2019 through August 9, 2019, from 8:00 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. in the front office at Dodge County High School (DCHS), DCHS will begin assigning seating for those Indian fans who had reserved seats last year.
Starting August 12, open seats will be available for anyone interested in reserve seating for the 2019-20 football season.
Our first official home game is August 23 at 7:30 p.m. The price is $35.00 per seat.
If you have any questions, please call the high school at 478-374-7711.
Starting August 12, open seats will be available for anyone interested in reserve seating for the 2019-20 football season.
Our first official home game is August 23 at 7:30 p.m. The price is $35.00 per seat.
If you have any questions, please call the high school at 478-374-7711.
Russ's Review
We have made it to the all-star break in the long Major League Baseball (MLB) season.
Let’s start by me saying, “I was wrong about this year’s Braves team,” at least so far. Atlanta is 54-37 and hold a six game lead over the Nationals and 6.5 over the Phillies.
There is little question about what’s carrying this team and that’s the offense. The infield has 68 homers and is lead by all-star Freddie Freeman’s 23, but to me the surprise is Dansby Swanson. He already has a career high of 17 homers and just two runs-batted-in (RBIs) away from his career high with 57 RBIs.
To no surprise, the outfield is led by all-star Ronald Acuna. He has 21 homers and a very good .292 average. Acuna is great out of the lead-off spot and also has 13 stolen bases.
The big move was the bringing up of Austin Riley. He has been really good in power with 16 homers and 41 RBIs. Riley has really struggled in his last 30 games, as he is hitting only .212. Strike outs have always been his problem and he has 69 in just 49 games in the majors.
If there is a downfall to this team, it’s pitching. The starters have been led by all-star Mike Soroka. He is 9-1 with a 2.42 earned run average (ERA). For a while, another real good story was Max Fried. He is 9-4 on the year but he has struggled lately, as his ERA is over five in his last six starts. The big pickup was free agent Dallas Kaechel. He is currently 2-2 with a 3.60 ERA. Kaechel has been a whole lot better in his last three starts.
I still feel that they need some help in the starter’s spot. The trade deadline is three weeks away. I hope there is a trade coming to add to the rotation.
Despite the record, the problem is the bullpen. I know that Luke Jackson has a 4-2 record and 14 saves in 20 chances. Let’s be honest. How do you feel with Jackson in the game with a one run lead in the ninth? I have a real bad feeling in my stomach, but most of the time he gets the job done (like Sunday against the Marlins). The team needs help with bullpen help to hang on to the lead in my opinion. I believe that the Nationals and the Phillies will make a run at them in the second half.
So, what happens in the second half? It won’t be an easy start, as they hit the road in San Diego and Milwaukee. Then they return home for what will be a real big series against the Nationals. This thing may come down to what team will make the big move at the trade deadline.
I think the Phillies will certainly do something after adding so much payroll. I am not as sure about the Nationals. If they struggle they could actually be sellers at the trade deadline.
The unpredictable will be the Braves. They have the prospects to make the big move but are the most conservative. The Braves have played the best of the three so far, but I see a change coming from the pack.
The National Basketball Association officially put their “season” underway this week. The complicated trade the Hawks made draft night, that gave them the overall pick, did finally become official on Saturday.
The deal was in question for a while as the Lakers almost backed out of an earlier deal. Things did officially pan out and the pair of deals that eventually gave them De’Andre Hunter from Virginia. Things will slowly continue to improve in Hawks land, but it’s going to take a while.
Let’s start by me saying, “I was wrong about this year’s Braves team,” at least so far. Atlanta is 54-37 and hold a six game lead over the Nationals and 6.5 over the Phillies.
There is little question about what’s carrying this team and that’s the offense. The infield has 68 homers and is lead by all-star Freddie Freeman’s 23, but to me the surprise is Dansby Swanson. He already has a career high of 17 homers and just two runs-batted-in (RBIs) away from his career high with 57 RBIs.
To no surprise, the outfield is led by all-star Ronald Acuna. He has 21 homers and a very good .292 average. Acuna is great out of the lead-off spot and also has 13 stolen bases.
The big move was the bringing up of Austin Riley. He has been really good in power with 16 homers and 41 RBIs. Riley has really struggled in his last 30 games, as he is hitting only .212. Strike outs have always been his problem and he has 69 in just 49 games in the majors.
If there is a downfall to this team, it’s pitching. The starters have been led by all-star Mike Soroka. He is 9-1 with a 2.42 earned run average (ERA). For a while, another real good story was Max Fried. He is 9-4 on the year but he has struggled lately, as his ERA is over five in his last six starts. The big pickup was free agent Dallas Kaechel. He is currently 2-2 with a 3.60 ERA. Kaechel has been a whole lot better in his last three starts.
I still feel that they need some help in the starter’s spot. The trade deadline is three weeks away. I hope there is a trade coming to add to the rotation.
Despite the record, the problem is the bullpen. I know that Luke Jackson has a 4-2 record and 14 saves in 20 chances. Let’s be honest. How do you feel with Jackson in the game with a one run lead in the ninth? I have a real bad feeling in my stomach, but most of the time he gets the job done (like Sunday against the Marlins). The team needs help with bullpen help to hang on to the lead in my opinion. I believe that the Nationals and the Phillies will make a run at them in the second half.
So, what happens in the second half? It won’t be an easy start, as they hit the road in San Diego and Milwaukee. Then they return home for what will be a real big series against the Nationals. This thing may come down to what team will make the big move at the trade deadline.
I think the Phillies will certainly do something after adding so much payroll. I am not as sure about the Nationals. If they struggle they could actually be sellers at the trade deadline.
The unpredictable will be the Braves. They have the prospects to make the big move but are the most conservative. The Braves have played the best of the three so far, but I see a change coming from the pack.
The National Basketball Association officially put their “season” underway this week. The complicated trade the Hawks made draft night, that gave them the overall pick, did finally become official on Saturday.
The deal was in question for a while as the Lakers almost backed out of an earlier deal. Things did officially pan out and the pair of deals that eventually gave them De’Andre Hunter from Virginia. Things will slowly continue to improve in Hawks land, but it’s going to take a while.
Russ's Review
Since we have entered the second half of 2019, let’s take a look at the major sports in the state. My apologies to Atlanta United, Atlanta Dream and Georgia Tech football.
Let’s start with the team that should improve the most this year and that is the Hawks. As expected, they weren’t very good in the 2018-19 season but they did much better as the season went along. Trae Young became one of the most exciting young players in the game. The Hawks have become an offensive force as Young, Kevin Huerter and Dewayne Dedmon scored a pile of points, but defense became an issue. That led to a trade in the 2019 draft as they moved up to get De’Andre Hunter from National Champion Virginia. He is considered the best defender in the draft. He should be an asset right away. Their second number one pick, which they got from Dallas, is Cam Reddish of Duke. The reviews are very mixed on him as he struggled in his one year at Duke. If he can play up to his very high ceiling, then a low playoff spot isn’t out of the question.
Next up are the Falcons. They looked to improve on the offensive line as they spent a pair of number one picks on it. The offense shouldn’t be the problem as the skill positions shouldn’t be the issue. Jones, Sanu, Ridley and Hooper should be plenty of targets for Matt Ryan. The return of Devonte Freeman should help the running game if he can stay healthy. All the questions seem to be on the defensive side of the ball. Can Vic Beasley return to his one year of quality play? Can Grady Jarrett show interest as he is playing with the franchise tag? Can Deion Jones stay healthy for a whole season? This is the year that Dan Quinn must come through orthe Birds will be looking for a new coach.
Let’s stay on the football scene and go to Athens and take a look at Kirby Smart and the Dogs. The offense lost several key skill position players as Holyfield, Hardman, Wims and Nauta are all gone. This week wide out JJ Holloman was dismissed due to domestic issues. Still, the offense should be fine as the line is projected at number one in the conference. Fromm and Swift should have big years. It would be nice if Robertson would live up to expectations. The defense should be better so we will see. The Dogs should win the SEC East but you know who is waiting on the other side of the conference.
Now for our current team and that is the Braves. I will be the first to admit that I am stunned that they have the lead as the calendar goes to July. The offense has been sensational as all-star starters Freddie Freeman and Ronald Acuna lead the way. There isn’t an easy out in the line up. Rookie Austin Riley started great but he has come back to earth some. He has struck out quite a bit. There is no way they can keep the offense up so the pitching must improve. Do you honestly think a rotation of Keuchel, Teheran, Soroka, Fried and the unknown will win a division? Or maybe the bullpen with Luke Jackson pitching the ninth with a one run lead? Not the best case scenario for me either!
Ownership must put some money in this to make this thing work. It will be interesting to see how things go between now and July 31. I will make one fearless prediction as I see one bullpen deal being made. I do not know to what extreme.
Let’s start with the team that should improve the most this year and that is the Hawks. As expected, they weren’t very good in the 2018-19 season but they did much better as the season went along. Trae Young became one of the most exciting young players in the game. The Hawks have become an offensive force as Young, Kevin Huerter and Dewayne Dedmon scored a pile of points, but defense became an issue. That led to a trade in the 2019 draft as they moved up to get De’Andre Hunter from National Champion Virginia. He is considered the best defender in the draft. He should be an asset right away. Their second number one pick, which they got from Dallas, is Cam Reddish of Duke. The reviews are very mixed on him as he struggled in his one year at Duke. If he can play up to his very high ceiling, then a low playoff spot isn’t out of the question.
Next up are the Falcons. They looked to improve on the offensive line as they spent a pair of number one picks on it. The offense shouldn’t be the problem as the skill positions shouldn’t be the issue. Jones, Sanu, Ridley and Hooper should be plenty of targets for Matt Ryan. The return of Devonte Freeman should help the running game if he can stay healthy. All the questions seem to be on the defensive side of the ball. Can Vic Beasley return to his one year of quality play? Can Grady Jarrett show interest as he is playing with the franchise tag? Can Deion Jones stay healthy for a whole season? This is the year that Dan Quinn must come through orthe Birds will be looking for a new coach.
Let’s stay on the football scene and go to Athens and take a look at Kirby Smart and the Dogs. The offense lost several key skill position players as Holyfield, Hardman, Wims and Nauta are all gone. This week wide out JJ Holloman was dismissed due to domestic issues. Still, the offense should be fine as the line is projected at number one in the conference. Fromm and Swift should have big years. It would be nice if Robertson would live up to expectations. The defense should be better so we will see. The Dogs should win the SEC East but you know who is waiting on the other side of the conference.
Now for our current team and that is the Braves. I will be the first to admit that I am stunned that they have the lead as the calendar goes to July. The offense has been sensational as all-star starters Freddie Freeman and Ronald Acuna lead the way. There isn’t an easy out in the line up. Rookie Austin Riley started great but he has come back to earth some. He has struck out quite a bit. There is no way they can keep the offense up so the pitching must improve. Do you honestly think a rotation of Keuchel, Teheran, Soroka, Fried and the unknown will win a division? Or maybe the bullpen with Luke Jackson pitching the ninth with a one run lead? Not the best case scenario for me either!
Ownership must put some money in this to make this thing work. It will be interesting to see how things go between now and July 31. I will make one fearless prediction as I see one bullpen deal being made. I do not know to what extreme.
Batting Cages Open at Recreation Department
By Russ Ragan
Monday, June 17, was a big day for the Dodge County Recreation Department.
They opened eight new batting cages at the gym of the department. The much-respected Tommy Barker Company of Atlanta put in the cages. They have put in cages for the Braves at SunTrust Park in Atlanta, at Parkview High School in Stone Mountain and, most recently, a personally built cage for Braves catcher Tyler Flowers.
We are certain the cage set up has been properly done! The cages will be open from 3:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. on Saturday. The fee is $15.00 per hour and you can purchase a monthly membership for $45.00 that will give you four 1-hour sessions.
The cages are set up for baseball or softball. Balls are included in the $15.00 sessions. Dodge County Recreation Department Director Travis Niblett stated in regards to the department’s newest addition, “We got these cages for the county. We have a lot of boys and girls going to out of town to hit balls, so we hope everyone will come out and use them”. Niblett added, “If you are needing a baseball or softball instructor, call the department and we will try to set you up”.
Please call the recreation department at 374-4698 to reserve a session. Walk-ins are accepted depending upon availability. Reservations are asked to be on the top of the hour if possible.
One more department note is that it is time to sign up for football and soccer. Registration goes from July 8 through 31. The ages are five to 12 for football and three to 13 for soccer. The fee for football is $55.00. Soccer is $50.00.
Opening day for both will be September 7, 2019.
For more information, call the department at 374-4696. On-line registration is already underway at Dodge-Recreation.com.
Monday, June 17, was a big day for the Dodge County Recreation Department.
They opened eight new batting cages at the gym of the department. The much-respected Tommy Barker Company of Atlanta put in the cages. They have put in cages for the Braves at SunTrust Park in Atlanta, at Parkview High School in Stone Mountain and, most recently, a personally built cage for Braves catcher Tyler Flowers.
We are certain the cage set up has been properly done! The cages will be open from 3:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. on Saturday. The fee is $15.00 per hour and you can purchase a monthly membership for $45.00 that will give you four 1-hour sessions.
The cages are set up for baseball or softball. Balls are included in the $15.00 sessions. Dodge County Recreation Department Director Travis Niblett stated in regards to the department’s newest addition, “We got these cages for the county. We have a lot of boys and girls going to out of town to hit balls, so we hope everyone will come out and use them”. Niblett added, “If you are needing a baseball or softball instructor, call the department and we will try to set you up”.
Please call the recreation department at 374-4698 to reserve a session. Walk-ins are accepted depending upon availability. Reservations are asked to be on the top of the hour if possible.
One more department note is that it is time to sign up for football and soccer. Registration goes from July 8 through 31. The ages are five to 12 for football and three to 13 for soccer. The fee for football is $55.00. Soccer is $50.00.
Opening day for both will be September 7, 2019.
For more information, call the department at 374-4696. On-line registration is already underway at Dodge-Recreation.com.
Russ's Review
It was a wild week on the area sports scene and yes, most of it was good and some I just cannot explain. Anyway, here we go. Yes it was another big week for the Braves. They went 4-2 on the week and they increased their lead to 6.5 games as the Phillies have dropped seven straight and they are going nowhere fast. The Braves carried a 46-32 record going into Monday night’s game against the Cubs. This is the part I cannot explain. How in the world is this possible? The team has three of the projected starting rotation in AAA or on the injured list. Gausman, Newcomb and Foltynewicz have been little or no factor. Vizcaino, who was the projected closer, got injured and eventually traded.
A.J. Minter was the next closer and he was awful and eventually sent to AAA. Luke Jackson was finally named the closer. Somehow he manages to get through the ninth, but he makes it very interesting. Sunday was a good example as he came in with a two run lead and he allowed a run but did hang on for the 4-3 win. He is 11 for 17 in save opportunities this season.
The reason this team is winning is offense. It is coming from every position. First baseman Freddie Freeman in on quite a roll. He is hitting .316 with 21 homeruns and 61 RBIs. Albies is also getting the job done at second. He is still the work in progress from the left side. Still, he is hitting .282 with 11 homeruns. Swanson has been much better at short. He is hitting .259 but he has tied his career high with 14 homeruns. He also has the big hits like on Saturday with a three-run homerun against the Nationals. Donaldson has been as advertised. He has 15 homeruns and he is hitting .260 but he will probably not be back next year for one reason. It’s Austin Riley. The kid has played in 36 games and he has 12 homeruns and 34 RBIs. He is doing good enough in left field and he will probably play third next year. He has a .280 average. He will strike out a good bit and he has with 49 in 136 at bats. Due to the Inciarte injury, Acuna was forced to centerfield. Granted, his defense has struggled a little but his bat has not been affected. He is hitting .286 with 18 homeruns. Markakis has been solid in right. He has 42 RBIs and he has played in every game. Only Swanson is the other player who has been in all 78 games. There was plenty of speculation about what the team would do for catcher. They decided to go with Flowers and bring back Brian McCann.
It has paid off as they have combined for 14 homeruns and 44 RBIs. The bench has also been huge with the trio of Camargo, Culberson and a new season pickup Matt Joyce. They have combined for eight homeruns and 40 RBIs mostly in a reserve roll. Camargo hit a game winning two-run homerun in Sunday’s game in Washington. The question is, can they hang on? I do think the bats will cool off a little but they will still hit. The big question is the pitching. I know that Keuchel will continue to improve but they need one more starter. The one I like is Marcus Stroman from Toronto. His record isn’t as good, it’s 5-9, but his ERA is 3.04 and that is really good in the American League.
They also need a closer. Sorry to all Luke Jackson fans but I don’t think he is the answer. I also like a BlueJay here and it is Ken Giles. He has 12 saves and he has 47 strikeouts in just 27 innings and the league is just hitting .202 against him. His ERA is just 1.33. He only has one blown save for the season. His only blown save was back in April against the Red Sox. The price shouldn’t be real high on getting the pair and getting these two would go a long way toward winning the National League East.
I knew the Hawks were going to be aggressive going into last week’s draft. There was no question that they wanted to move up into the top five of the draft. They found a trade partner in New Orleans. They sent a pair of the three first round picks, 8 and 17 and a second round pick for the fourth overall pick, number 57 and the contract of Soloman Hill. They used the fourth pick on Virginia forward De’Andre Hunter. He is considered the best defensive player in the draft. He should also contribute to the high-powered offense led by Trae Young.
They still had the 10th overall pick and they got Cam Reddish from Duke. He didn’t have a great year but his upside was just too good to pass up. I really like the direction that this time is going. I don’t think that they are playoff quite yet but who knows? There are also reports that the Hawks and Lakers are talking trade so something else may be on the agenda.
A.J. Minter was the next closer and he was awful and eventually sent to AAA. Luke Jackson was finally named the closer. Somehow he manages to get through the ninth, but he makes it very interesting. Sunday was a good example as he came in with a two run lead and he allowed a run but did hang on for the 4-3 win. He is 11 for 17 in save opportunities this season.
The reason this team is winning is offense. It is coming from every position. First baseman Freddie Freeman in on quite a roll. He is hitting .316 with 21 homeruns and 61 RBIs. Albies is also getting the job done at second. He is still the work in progress from the left side. Still, he is hitting .282 with 11 homeruns. Swanson has been much better at short. He is hitting .259 but he has tied his career high with 14 homeruns. He also has the big hits like on Saturday with a three-run homerun against the Nationals. Donaldson has been as advertised. He has 15 homeruns and he is hitting .260 but he will probably not be back next year for one reason. It’s Austin Riley. The kid has played in 36 games and he has 12 homeruns and 34 RBIs. He is doing good enough in left field and he will probably play third next year. He has a .280 average. He will strike out a good bit and he has with 49 in 136 at bats. Due to the Inciarte injury, Acuna was forced to centerfield. Granted, his defense has struggled a little but his bat has not been affected. He is hitting .286 with 18 homeruns. Markakis has been solid in right. He has 42 RBIs and he has played in every game. Only Swanson is the other player who has been in all 78 games. There was plenty of speculation about what the team would do for catcher. They decided to go with Flowers and bring back Brian McCann.
It has paid off as they have combined for 14 homeruns and 44 RBIs. The bench has also been huge with the trio of Camargo, Culberson and a new season pickup Matt Joyce. They have combined for eight homeruns and 40 RBIs mostly in a reserve roll. Camargo hit a game winning two-run homerun in Sunday’s game in Washington. The question is, can they hang on? I do think the bats will cool off a little but they will still hit. The big question is the pitching. I know that Keuchel will continue to improve but they need one more starter. The one I like is Marcus Stroman from Toronto. His record isn’t as good, it’s 5-9, but his ERA is 3.04 and that is really good in the American League.
They also need a closer. Sorry to all Luke Jackson fans but I don’t think he is the answer. I also like a BlueJay here and it is Ken Giles. He has 12 saves and he has 47 strikeouts in just 27 innings and the league is just hitting .202 against him. His ERA is just 1.33. He only has one blown save for the season. His only blown save was back in April against the Red Sox. The price shouldn’t be real high on getting the pair and getting these two would go a long way toward winning the National League East.
I knew the Hawks were going to be aggressive going into last week’s draft. There was no question that they wanted to move up into the top five of the draft. They found a trade partner in New Orleans. They sent a pair of the three first round picks, 8 and 17 and a second round pick for the fourth overall pick, number 57 and the contract of Soloman Hill. They used the fourth pick on Virginia forward De’Andre Hunter. He is considered the best defensive player in the draft. He should also contribute to the high-powered offense led by Trae Young.
They still had the 10th overall pick and they got Cam Reddish from Duke. He didn’t have a great year but his upside was just too good to pass up. I really like the direction that this time is going. I don’t think that they are playoff quite yet but who knows? There are also reports that the Hawks and Lakers are talking trade so something else may be on the agenda.
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