Atlanta Braves legend Dale Murphy joined Dukes & Bell Wednesday to talk about the offense, what the team needs to address, and some advice for the pitching staff.
Murphy told the guys the team has to strengthen the pitching.
“We have to do whatever we can,” Murphy said. “My one caveat against the team is the walks. If we continue to lead the league in walks we have some real issues, and the Phillies are going to be going after the same guys we are. The tricky thing for the front office is when to pull the trigger on trading some of the young prospects. The trade that always comes up is the John Smoltz-Doyle Alexander trade. The Tigers got a veteran pitcher and the Braves got a young pitcher who became a Hall of Famer.”
Dale told the guys he’s not ready to give up on Sean Newcomb.
“Patience, he’s left handed, big kid and has too good of stuff,” Murphy said. “If he’s available every other day that’s great, and then maybe you move him back into the rotation. Big lefty’s with good stuff are something you hold on to.”
Murph told the guys he agrees the Braves are still the best team in the East.
“I think we’re the best team in the east also,” Murphy said. “I think we have the best lineup, but you can never be deep enough with pitching. We give up too many baserunners without giving up hits. We have the best defensive team as well. Our pitchers have to throw strikes, let the hitters put the ball in play and then let our defense do their thing.”
