1. Cincinnati Reds
Yes, the Atlanta Braves recently took two out of three from this same group. However, all three games could have easily tilted in either direction. The Reds bring back a lot of memories of Atlanta teams just a few seasons ago as a fun young roster that never quits, no matter the situation or lead.
There is some fearlessness from this roster in their approach to the game that should earn an amount of healthy respect from Braves fans. Energized by a dynamic player now in the middle of their lineup and the return of veteran Joey Votto, this isn’t a team that can be ignored come postseason time.
While they are clearly a threat, the one issue is going to be starting pitching and matching up with Atlanta or any other team when both rosters are fully healthy. Cincy should be expected to be in the mix to add a starter at this year’s trade deadline in an attempt to add the one missing piece and become a clear tough matchup in any round.