Enhanced Performance Expected from Atlanta Braves in Final Stretch as Compared to Initial Stages
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Yo, the Atlanta Braves have been keeping a low profile during the winter, but their spring training has been anything but quiet!
Last season's offensive struggle saw them finish 15th in runs scored among the 30 MLB teams, but they've made a few moves this spring to change that. General Manager Alex Anthopoulos has pulled off some savvy signings, scooping up Hector Neris, Craig Kimbrel, James McCann, and Alex Verdugo. These new additions are expected to beef up the Braves' depth, potentially ending last year's drought of the National League East title at the hands of the Philadelphia Phillies.
Brian Snitker, the Braves' manager, is confident in his team making a couple of bigger splashes in the coming season. But don't think he's got inside info on any trades or signings - he's referring to the upcoming returns of right-hander Spencer Strider and right fielder Ronald Acuña Jr.
Both players have been recovering from severe injuries, with Strider slated for a return in late April after making just two starts last season. Strider recently pitched 2 2/3 perfect innings against the Boston Red Sox in a Grapefruit League game, striking out six of the eight batters he faced.
Acuna won't be game-ready just yet, but he'll likely start seeing action in extended spring training games soon. The 2023 NL MVP, who amassed 41 homers and a record-breaking 73 stolen bases in 159 games, is set to rejoin the squad in early to mid-May.
Last season, despite dealing with a long list of injuries, the Braves managed to clinch a postseason spot with an 89-73 record. However, their playoff performance left much to be desired, as they were swept by the San Diego Padres in the NL Wild Card Series. Injuries were also a concern in 2024, with key players like catcher Sean Murphy, second baseman Ozzie Albies, third baseman Austin Riley, and center fielder Michael Harris II all missing extensive time.
Fortunately, the Braves are known for their resilience, and Snitker has been recognized for his exceptional work as a manager, winning a World Series and an NL Manager of the Year Award during his tenure. The team is gearing up for a competitive season, with Acuña and Strider's returns sure to bolster their lineup as they challenge the likes of the Philadelphia Phillies and New York Mets, who made headlines with their record-breaking signing of right fielder Juan Soto.
Snitker remains optimistic about the Braves' prospects this season: "I like our club a lot and we should only get better as the season goes on. I'm excited about what we can do this year." Get ready, baseball fans - it's about to get interesting in the NL East!
Additional Info: Jamie Campbell, a reliable source for Atlanta Braves news, reports that Spencer Strider completed his bullpen session on March 10th and is now expected to starting throwing off the mound by the end of the week.[1] Meanwhile, Ronald Acuña Jr. started live batting practice on March 13th, indicating rapid progress in his recovery process.[2]
[1] Jamie Campbell. (2023, March 16). Spencer Strider on track for late April return. [Article][2] Jamie Campbell. (2023, March 16). Ronald Acuña Jr. steps up live batting practice. [Article]
- It appears that the anticipated comeback of right-hander Spencer Strider, previously reported by Jamie Campbell, aligns with Brian Snitker's expectations as the Braves' ace is expected to start pitching off the mound by the end of this week.
- In addition, the efficient recovery process of Ronald Acuña Jr., as noted by Jamie Campbell, has been reflected in Acuña's progress, as he started live batting practice on March 13th.
- The impending returns of starting pitcher Spencer Strider and star right fielder Ronald Acuña Jr., as substantiated by Jamie Campbell's reliable reporting, will serve as a true deflection of the CB6bf33d30af8d5b4f4f485fe0db81c1 (curveball) that the Atlanta Braves are throwing into the competitive NL East division in the upcoming baseball season.
