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There are currently two divisions in baseball that are the measuring stick and they are both in the East. Both National and American League fans know that any team coming out of those divisions is an automatic World Series Contender. The good news for the Atlanta Braves is that they are in the National League East. The bad news for the Braves is that they are in the National League East.
The Hinske signing did not perk up a lot of ears, but don’t underestimate the value of this talented veteran. Let’s not forget that he was the Rookie of the Year in 2002 and has the potential to hit over .300 and knock out quite a few balls. While his role will probably be that of the primary left-handed pinch hitter, his leadership and experience should lift this club up a bit.
Braves fans have to be looking forward to another big year from Matt Diaz. After only playing 43 games in 2008, he bounced back huge hitting .313 in 2009. He had his second best season in home runs and will look to have a career best this season. Arguably one of the most talented players on the team, the Atlanta Braves will look for him to continue his offensive progress.
While the offense of the Atlanta Braves is always fun to watch, the real thrill this season is going to be the pitching staff. They are going to have to match up against Philadelphia and believe it or not, it should not be that difficult. Once you get by Halladay, the Phillies are really in doubt. Hamels is a head case and the rest of the staff will need 6 runs a game to get a win.
Jair Jurjens was an absolute stud last season eating up over 200 innings and winning 14 games. If he would have had better run support, it could have been a Cy Young season. If he comes anywhere close to the 2.60 ERA that he put up last year, the Braves will be ecstatic. So far, there is no reason to believe any different.
It doesn’t get any better for opposing teams after Jurjens gets off the mound. Up and down, the Braves have the potential to have the best starting 5 in the baseball. Lowe, Hanson and Hudson will all take a turn and every single one of them could put up 20 wins. 100 win season is not out of the question this year.
Because fan support has never been an issue, it may be best to lock up tickets to the big games very early. A healthy Atlanta Braves team means a place atop the division and another deep run into the playoffs. Braves fans are going to have a blast at the ballpark this year.
Written by Heather Maxwell, sponsored by Stub.com. Stub.com sells Atlanta Braves Tickets, MLB Tickets, Sports Tickets and more to just about any event in your area.
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