Frenchy to the Minors

Jeff Francoeur to the minors? What has happened while I've been gone?

Actually, Frenchy's struggles have been season-long and this move did not shock me. The biggest disappointment is that this season offered Francouer a great opportunity to take a step forward into an All-Star caliber outfielder. Bobby Cox batted him 5th early in the year with Brian McCann protecting him against lefties. Chipper Jones and his .400 average gave Frenchy RBI chances every night. The Braves were seen as National League contenders partly because of the belief that Francouer would be a 25 HR, 110 RBI right fielder.

It did not happen. Frankly, Francoeur has escaped my blame for the Braves woes this season for no good reason. The biggest Braves bug-a-boo has been hitting with runners on base and Francoeur has been miserable in that spot. The guy looks like an RBI machine, but he's been hitting in the .220s with runners in scoring position all season.

Here is hoping the trip to Mississippi fixes Frenchy's flaws. I already miss his monster arm in right field, but can't say I miss his bat in the line-up.

What a weird, dramatic year this has been for the Braves.