There are two ways to look at the 2024 Atlanta Braves.
On the one hand, Atlanta’s season has been disappointing so far due to a series of injuries. Despite their misfortunes, the Braves are still in the playoffs, which is a miracle conclusion that should inspire optimism. Major League Baseball analysts are divided on how to assess Atlanta.
Zachary D. Rymer of Bleacher article is pessimistic, naming the Braves as one of the year’s top ten disappointments in an article released on Sunday.
“It does feel a little wrong to label Atlanta’s season as a disappointment, given just how big of a role the injury bug has played,” Mr. Rymer said. “Their injured list seems to contain nothing but stars, including (Ronald) Acuña (knee) and Spencer Strider (elbow) with season-enders and Ozzie Albies (wrist) and Austin Riley (hand) with broken bones.”
“At the same time, injuries can only explain so much of Atlanta’s offensive collapse. From 2023 to 2024, they are the single biggest drop in average, on-base percentage, and slugging percentage. Matt Olson, the reigning MLB home run champion, has had a challenging season, as have Acuña and Riley, even before their injuries. “A team that was supposed to be great is barely hanging on to a wild-card spot at 70-59.”
Then there’s Bob Nightengale of USA Today, who wrote about the Braves on Sunday, but in a more positive tone.
“Atlanta lost ace Spencer Strider after two starts and reigning MVP Ronald Acuña Jr. in May,” Nightengale told reporters. “They are without third baseman Austin Riley and second baseman Ozzie Albies. They went two months without center fielder Michael Harris and catcher Sean Murphy. One-third of their current team consists of players who were released this season. And Atlanta was only five games behind the Philadelphia Phillies on Sunday.
For Braves fans, Nightengale’s method is undoubtedly more gratifying.
If Atlanta can end the season strong and win a playoff spot, they’ll be able to enjoy autumn ball without feeling pressured, which other National League teams should be aware of.