While a record of 25-18 is certainly acceptable for a mid-June report card, the Atlanta Braves have to face reality. At this point, it’s put up or shut up time. If they wish to repeat as World Series Champions, the Braves need to raise their game starting now.
Behind the great play of starting pitchers Max Fried and Spencer Strider, the Braves have been able to hold their own. However, the team batting average of .246 is 16th in the majors. That is unacceptable for a team that hit .262 last year, 7th in the league. The big bats in the lineup need to start producing. Ronald Acuna, Austin Riley, and Matt Olson are all capable of hitting over 30 home runs. If the Braves want to repeat, they need at least two of the three to do just that.
The Braves are relying on several key players returning from injury to help bolster the lineup including Ozzie Albies and Adam Duvall. If and when they do, it will provide a much needed boost to the offense.
While their offense has struggled of late, the Braves have been able to count on their pitching staff. However, that may not be sustainable. Fried and Strider have been excellent, but Ian Anderson has really struggled. He has an ERA of 5.21 and has lasted more than 5 innings just once in his last 5 starts. The Braves will likely have to lean heavily on Fried and Strider going forward. That won’t be easy to do, especially down the stretch.
The Braves have some tough decisions to make
With the MLB trade deadline in early August, the Braves will have some tough decisions to make. If they are truly committed to repeating, they may have to make a move or two to improve the offense. There are several big bats available, but it will come at a cost. The Braves will have to give up some of their top prospects which could hurt them down the road.
The Braves are at a crossroads. They can either stand pat and hope that their current roster finds a way to get it done. Or, they can make some moves to improve the team and give themselves a better chance of winning another World Series. Only time will tell what the Braves will do, but they need to make a decision soon.
Kind regards Z. McDowell.