2007 Atlanta Brave Preview and Predictions
May 22, 2008
The Braves were the class of the National League East for over a decade recording 14 straight division titles before last season’s third place finish. Their success can be attributed to having the best pitching staff in the 90’s and to playing in one of the weaker divisions in baseball, but those things are both a thing of the past. The Mets are now one of the strongest teams in the National League and the Phillies’ powerful lineup should have them close behind in the East.
Last season, I kept waiting for the Mets and the Phillies to trail off the way they always do allowing the Braves to swoop in and take the division in the last month, but Atlanta dug itself far too big of a hole last season that its late charge was all for not. I won’t beat around the bush, if the Braves can finish number two in their division this season, it will be quite the success. Here’s what we know about Atlanta. The Braves are one of the most well coached teams in the major leagues under manager Bobby Cox, and as a result, they have been able to beat their opponents in a number of ways. With Chipper Jones and Adruw Jones, they can hit the long ball, or they can use their speed and fundamental skill to play small ball. We have seen the Braves do it all to become the elite National League team over the last 15 seasons. Although Atlanta’s staff isn’t as solid as it once was in the days when Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine, and John Smoltz led the way, it is still a nice staff with Smoltz hanging around to carry on Atlanta’s great tradition and Tim Hudson giving the Braves another sensational talent. With Chuck James looking to be the next rising star on this staff, the Braves could be back at the top of the East sooner than most would predict. Andruw Jones has been one of the best defensive outfielders in Major League Baseball since he entered the league. Over the last two seasons Jones has really boosted his offense. In 2005 he showed that he can swing a very big bat as he tallied an unbelievable 51 homeruns. He still slugged 41 homeruns and drove in 129 runs last season. Expect to see him up around the 50 homerun mark again in 2007 as this will be a free agent year for Jones. Atlanta will be better in 2007 with some of their younger pitchers getting another year of experience under their belts. Don’
t be surprised if the Braves get back to second place in the East beating out Philly, but the Mets are clearly the best team in this division and will be for several more years at least. The good news is that a down year for Atlanta should make them an even better value bet in 2007 in a year which I feel they will show improvement.
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