Yes, it is the play on words is a bit overdone since Michael Bourn has arrived in Atlanta, but considering he showed off his talent in a way way on Bruce Springsteen’s birthday, I will buy in. Atlanta scored seven runs with out a single home run, which means the Braves were actually manufacturing runs. Bourn, with the help of Chipper Jones, helped turn a run down into a spectacular scoring play.
The play by reads as this: Chipper Jones reaches on a fielder’s choice out, pitcher Henry Rodriguez to shortstop Ian Desmond to third baseman Ryan Zimmerman to first baseman Chris Marrero to second baseman Danny Espinosa. Michael Bourn scores on the throw. Chipper Jones out at 2nd.
What really happened is Michael Bourn got on base, stole second, and the threat of his speed, caused the Nationals to throw at the sure out Chipper Jones. Bourn picked up on the Nationals confusion, and cruised in to an uncovered home plate. Chipper, who looked a bit winded, also had the presence of mind to stay in the run down long enough for Bourn to score.
These guys are a big part of why the Braves have a shot in the playoffs, even with more bad news on the pitching front. Tommy Hanson will not be available to start the last game of the regular season, so even if he can return, he will have had no tune up from his long lay off. To make matters worse, Peter Moylan is out for the rest of the season and possibly his career, with a torn labrum. Tim Hudson who used a rosin bag on his bald head also gave the Braves a scare, but after a trip to the hospital for fluids, Huddy is fine. I would like top know how the rosin worked on his skin, I need all the help I can get in the quest for the fountain of youth!
Although the Braves are once again limping toward the playoffs, they will not go quietly. With the grizzled veterans that are, as we say in the South, too ornery (pronounced awn-ry in these parts) to die, and rookies that do not know enough to be scared, this team could just pull something together. If that is the case, lace ‘em up, and let’s go for a run!
