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3 players for Atlanta Braves to target this offseason

By David Hill

Oct 11, 2022; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves shortstop Dansby Swanson (7) singles against the Philadelphia Phillies in the ninth inning during game one of the NLDS for the 2022 MLB Playoffs at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 11, 2022; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves shortstop Dansby Swanson (7) singles against the Philadelphia Phillies in the ninth inning during game one of the NLDS for the 2022 MLB Playoffs at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /
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Don’t look now, but the Atlanta Braves are putting together another NL East dynasty.

2022 marked the fifth consecutive season that the Braves won the division, a streak reminiscent of their run in the 1990s and into the 2000s. The Braves brought home a World Series in that span as well, although they are hoping for more than the one title in this current run. They are certainly doing their part of make that happen, locking up their young core to long term extensions as soon as possible to keep the roster together.

Three players for Atlanta Braves to target

But that does not mean the division is theirs for the foreseeable future. Mets owner Steve Cohen is willing to spend whatever it takes to bring a championship to New York. The Phillies may have been the sixth seed, but they are the defending NL champions. The Braves are going to need to add to their roster if they want a sixth consecutive divisional crown.

The Atlanta Braves are facing a great deal of competition for the NL East. Let’s look at three players that could help solidify their hold on the division.

Dansby Swanson

For all of the extensions that have been handed out by the Atlanta Braves, one player is conspicuous with his absence.

It seemed to be a matter of time before Dansby Swanson received an extension of his own. The Braves are interested in keeping him on board. According to reports, the interest is mutual as Swanson wants to stay. The two sides are still talking, but so far, nothing has happened.

Swanson would certainly make a difference in the lineup. He has developed into a solid offensive player, posting a .277/.329/.447 batting line with 25 homers and 32 doubles in his 696 plate appearances while stealing 18 bases. His defense is also impressive as he saved nine runs last year en route to his first Gold Glove award.

But Swanson is more than just his numbers. He has been nicknamed ‘Sheriff’ by the younger players on the team due to his ability to keep everyone in line when needed. Swanson has been a veteran mentor and someone the younger players look up to, traits that are important for a team that will be so dependent on those youngsters.

The Atlanta Braves and Dansby Swanson want to make an extension work. Considering what he means to the locker room, it needs to happen.

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