3 biggest questions the Atlanta Braves are facing heading into NLDS
By Nick Halden
It is hard to form any logical argument against the Atlanta Braves being World Series favorites heading into the second round of the 2023 MLB postseason. The offense is lethal and has proven even against great pitching that no lead is truly safe for an opposing team. Despite injuries, the team has crafted together a strong back end of the bullpen and, when healthy, the top of the rotation can match up with anyone.
Atlanta's biggest challenge is going to be proving worthy of all the praise and attention they have been given this season. This is a team that lost Dansby Swanson and Freddie Freeman since winning the 2021 World Series and, if anything, has gotten even better.
The healthy return of their young superstar has helped along with huge seasons from Matt Olson and Orlando Arcia. It seems any decision that the Atlanta Braves front office makes is the perfect one. Whether it is locking up their stars with team-friendly deals or finding surprising value in the trade or free agent markets, Atlanta consistently finds ways to win on and off the field.
However, despite being the clear favorite, there should be a healthy level of fear among Atlanta Braves fans with three clear questions facing the franchise.