» Kris Medlen

Oh, the end to the 2009 regular season was heartbreaking. But there were many wonderful accomplishments. I’m going to write down some of those accomplishments:

• Congratulations to Jair Jurrjens who was named September NL Pitcher of the Month.
• Garret Anderson got his 2500th hit on 1 October 2009. Go Garret!
• My favorite Peter Moylan was phenomenal after the All-Star Break, having an ERA under 1.00 (considering that he had a 145.00 ERA by the time he got his first out, that’s very impressive). He surpassed Chris Reitsma on the Franchise All-Time appearances with 87! I’m very proud of Pete, considering all he went through to come back. If it weren’t for Chris Carpenter, I’d totally say Pete was going to be NL Comeback Player of the Year! And did I forget to mention that he didn’t give up a single homerun in 09? Go Pete!
• Tim Hudson was very, very awesome his first time back. He had two wins, though I’m sure he deserved more. I really hope he’s around next year. He’s a good person and a great pitcher.
• Tommy Hanson had a wonderful rookie year. I so hope that he wins Rookie of the Year.
• Matt Diaz was just awesome this year! Despite a base-running blunder to end a game against the Marlins, I have very little complaints about how well MattE D did this year.
• Kris Medlen, though I can’t say he was remarkable, was pretty good. I just love Little M, for more personal reasons, but you know me.
• Martin Prado had an outstanding year. I really like Kelly Johnson, but Martin is my choice for 2B next year!
• Yunel Escobar, besides a few attitude problems, was just fantastic this year. I really hope we can see more of Yunel has got!
• And finally, Javier Vazquez has been amazing. I hear his name is popping up in Cy Young Award discussions, so let’s see how Javy does!

Though the end of the season was disasterous, I’m still faithful to the Braves and cannot wait for next year. One last year of Bobby Cox, which I still have mixed about. The boys really had me excited about the NL Wildcard race, and although they didn’t win, this was ten times better than last year. In 2010, we’re a force to be reckoned with. No doubt it my mind.

Also, both Mike Gonazlez and Rafeal Sorianoare free agents this year. I hear there is a fifty-fifty chance on keeping Gonzo and little chance of keeping Soriano, but the other day at a season ticket holder’s event, Frank Wren mentioned (without realizing it) that they would have to replace both. I’m very curious as to how this works out. Because I also hear that my favorite Peter Moylan could possibly replace them as closer. You probably can guess my opinion, but if they don’t re-sign Gonzo, well then I’ll be upset. I love his fire, his excited air that he gives off. Though, Yunel should be able to fill that whole :p.

One last note, Mr. and Mrs. Kelly Johnson are expecting their first child in December, according to Chop Talk! Though I don’t think Kelly will be around next year, that is very exciting! I have no doubt the child will be as adorable as daddy dearest.

Until next time!