Atlanta Braves MLB’s Top Team?

Jul 29, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Braves second baseman

(26) scores the game winning run against the Colorado Rockies and reacts with on deck hitter

(16) during the tenth inning at Turner Field. The Braves defeated the Rockies 9-8 in ten innings. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

There’s no doubt that the Los Angeles Dodgers are doing something special this year. Let’s face it, “Puig-mania” has taken everyone by storm and is often shielding many who don’t follow other teams from the true top-dogs. You can make a case for the Dodgers to be considered as the top-dog in the league thanks to their recent consistency, but something else exciting is happening in Atlanta.

Currently carrying the best record in baseball, Freddie Freeman, Chris Johnson and the rest of the Braves are proving to be legitimate contenders that need to be taken seriously. Justin Upton‘s power has led the lineup to club 149 home-runs, currently the best number in the National League. The team also ranks second in the NL in scoring, tallying 556 runs– averaging about four and a half per game.

The pitching has been impressive to say the least. Of all 30 teams, Atlanta is leading in ERA posting a 3.19 ERA with 78 quality starts. The staff has allowed just 396 earned runs all year, also a statistic that is a league best. Led by Mike Minor, Julio Teheran and a young Kris Medlen, this year’s group of flame-throwers is helping, making them a staff to be feared heading into the playoffs. Even Yasiel Puig might struggle…

Pitching and fielding– two things that win games– two things that the Braves do very, very well.

Are there concerns for this team? Sure.

Dan Uggla just went on the DL, the team strikes out way too much, and the recent history in the playoffs speak for themselves.

The offense needs to continue to produce with runners in scoring position along with upping the average, but as long as everything goes swimmingly at the dish, this team is going to have great success both at home and on the road.

Some have doubts, but the Braves might just be the MLB’s best team.