ATLANTA BRAVES (52-42, 2ND PLACE, NL EAST)
BIG PICTURE
The Braves began the season hoping for improvement after three consecutive seasons of 90-plus defeats. Then they began the season 19-11 and moved into first place in the first week of May. Instead of talking about improvement, they began talking about playing in October, which at this point has to be a realistic goal for the second half. A young lineup has been sparked by Ozzie Albies and Ronald Acuna Jr., and Freddie
Freeman is one of the leading candidates for National League MVP. Freeman, Albies, Nick Markakis and righthander Mike Foltynewicz are All-Stars.
BEST PERFORMANCE
Freeman was off to an MVP-type start in 2017 before an Aaron Loup pitch shattered his left wrist in May. He had another MVP-type start this season, and he didn’t miss a game in the first half.
BIGGEST SURPRISE
Markakis signed with the Braves in December 2014, just in time to be there for all the losing. Now he’s a big part of the winning and is an All-Star for the first time in his 13-year career. He is in the race for the National League batting title and could reach a career high in doubles.
BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT
Mike Soroka, 20, was far from disappointing, but a sore shoulder might prevent him from returning this season.
TRADE-DEADLINE FORECAST
The Braves need help in the bullpen and maybe the rotation or at third base.
KEY SERIES
vs. Washington Nationals Sept. 14-16
Danny Knobler