Imagining the Atlanta Braves in the 2018 postseason isn’t too far fetched.
Yes, the headline of this article says, “Imagining the Atlanta Braves in the 2018 Postseason.” The Braves as an organization has surely seen better days, but can we really say this team doesn’t have the talent to take a figurative swing at it in 2018?
The farm system ranks among one of the best in the big leagues, they have undeniable talent throughout the diamond, and the front office just got a big raise in Alex Anthopoulos.
So, why not?
Have the Washington Nationals made the kind of moves that make anyone think they’re a lock for the NL East title? The answer is no. The Atlanta Braves in 2017 were arguably the only team in the division to stand toe-to-toe with the Nationals, and it was unfortunate they collapsed shortly after the All-Star Break.
One of the most reoccurring things that were said about this Braves squad last season was: Wait until these young arms get a full season to work with. Well, the time has come for prominent young stars the likes of Sean Newcomb, Lucas Sims, and Max Fried to show the world what they can do.
Offensively, I can sit here and talk about how good this team can be until the sun goes up and down.
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With what would have been All-Star Freddie Freeman returning healthy, Dansby Swanson finding his bat late in the season, Ozzie Albies getting a full season, and Tyler Flowers returning from injury this team could have the makings of a real sleeper in 2018.
Again, I am not saying World Series, because I am fully aware the Los Angeles Dodgers reside in the National League but just remember the Braves had the best record in baseball against them last season during their streak.
Let’s just be honest for a second thought, and let our imaginations run wild. This Atlanta Braves team has the talent, and the youth to honestly do something magical in 2018. Imagining an appearance in the playoffs doesn’t seem as ridiculous as it did in 2017.
The Atlanta Braves are more experienced, and they now have a leader in the front office who will do things by the book.
Next: Projecting a near perfect 2018 campaign for the Braves
Rather than putting ourselves down and enduring yet another 90-loss season how about we start thinking this: the Atlanta Braves are a playoff contender.