Today in Jupiter

I just got back to Ocala (not a quick drive from Jupiter).

The larger picture was covered pretty thoroughly by the postgame article and Goold's blog.

Saw Braden Looper start again. I was hoping to see someone else, but thems is the breaks. Once again he didn't allow hitters to get deep into counts. A lot of ground balls. Of the four hits allowed, I think 2 were fly balls. The last inning was interesting as the Braves started making more contact in the 4th, but it didn't translate to runs. He was probably saved by two leaping catches by Jolbert Cabrera.

On Jolbert: I like the idea of him. Can hit (at least in Japan) and has some pop. Plays all of the infield positions. I wouldn't cry if he took Miles' job. Ain't happening, but if...

Got to see Ryan Franklin again. There isn't anything that remarkable about him. So, I'll move on.

Ankiel had a homer and a double. His batting stance looks different from the third base side versus the first base side. What this means, nothing. Just a thought I had. He doesn't seem too interested in taking pitches at this point. I would be surprised if he saw any more than five or so total in all of his plate appearances today.

Finally saw some corner outfielders field some balls. Duncan had two catches. Nothing difficult, nothing dropped. What has been most impressive about him have been his walks. He has worked really to get them. In at least one PA today and onece in Vero he was 1-2 or 0-2 and worked his way on base. Very promising, I hope.

Home games bring more starters. All but one or two projected opening day starters were out there today. Kennedy did nothing to wow me. He didn't look too quick on a double play that was turned, but maybe that was because he didn't have his usual playmate out there.

Braves: Chipper fouled a ball off of his ankle and couldn't move towards first later on a ground ball to end the at bat. He was immediately replaced in the bottom of the inning.

Flight back to St. Louis tomorrow. One irrelevant note: Everyone told me to get the Dean dog. 1/3 lb beef dog with peppers and onions. I have to say I was left wonting. I would still prefer the kosher dog at Busch with grilled onions. Which I can in only a few short weeks.