Atlanta’s spring training began on the right foot, due to their outstanding center fielder.
The Atlanta Braves played the first game of Spring Training on Saturday. Yes, you heard that correctly. Braves baseball is officially back, and fans are ecstatic.
It’s hard to believe it’s been just over a year since Atlanta began what would become a record-breaking season in 2023. It feels as if the club has broken every record in franchise history.
Fans would be mad not to be excited for the 2024 season after such an excellent season, despite the disappointing ending. We have completed our first roster estimate for Opening Day, which you may find fascinating.
Michael Harris II started the spring season strong by homering on the opening pitch against the Tampa Bay Rays, channeling his inner Ronald Acuña Jr. Harris has MVP potential and might have a spectacular season if he gets off to a good start.
Harris II is one of baseball’s most spectacular left-handed batters, with surprising power and the ability to hit the ball to any field. His quickness offers him a similar threat to Justin Toscano. on the bases. If he can keep up his performance throughout the season, the NL East will have a difficult year.
With the Braves keeping basically the same core of players, fans will likely not surprised to see that their high-powered offensive team has carried over into the first competitive game of 2024. Atlanta scored six runs and defeated the Rays 6-5 in the first game of the spring.
Spencer Strider started the game on the mound and threw 99 mph fastballs in two innings. He allowed one hit, walked one, and struck out four during that time.
Strider worked in his new breaking ball, which many term a curveball, but it appears to be just a different grip on the slider that gives the pitch a new look. According to Justin Toscano of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution ($), whether the ball is a curve or not, it appears to have performed well for him on the mound. He plans to utilize it more.
If Strider develops another pitch for opposing batters to worry about, the Braves’ ace will have a tremendous season. Phillies fans want to pretend Strider isn’t an ace, but he’s repeatedly proven to be one of baseball’s top pitchers.
Strider has the potential to be a Cy Young winner, and learning to a new pitch will make Spencer’s quest for 300 strikeouts easier. The Braves are in a very excellent spot as we approach 2024.
Only a few of Atlanta’s predicted Opening Day lineup played on Saturday, but the majority of those who did not play will most likely face the Red Sox on Sunday.
Notable performances from Saturday’s game
Michael Harris II: 2-3, HR, RBI
Marcell Ozuna: 1-2, BB, K
Jarred Kelenic: 0-3, K
Luis Guillorme: 1-3, K
Nacho Alvarez: 2-2, 2 RBI
Forrest Wall: 1-2, RBI
Atlanta’s next game is against the Red Sox on Sunday at 1:05 pm EST from CoolToday Park in North Port, Florida. The game can be listened to on 680 AM/93.7 FM The Fan. Bryce Elder takes the mound for Atlanta and will be opposed by Red Sox pitcher Brayan Bello.
