Let’s talk about the Atlanta Braves, who have found themselves in a bit of a sticky situation as the regular season winds down. After a tough series against their NL East rivals, the Philadelphia Phillies, the Braves have slipped to seven games behind the division leaders. Now, with less than a month left in the season, the Braves are facing an uphill battle to secure a playoff spot.
First baseman Matt Olson put it best after the series loss, admitting, “There’s no good way to sugarcoat it right now, it sucks losing the series… But it doesn’t change what we’re doing going forward. We’ve got a month left. Show up (Tuesday) expecting to win, and do that every day for the rest of the season.”
Olson’s words capture the spirit the Braves need right now, but let’s be real—this team has more pressing concerns than catching the Phillies for the division crown. Right on their tail are the New York Mets, who have won five straight games and are now just a half-game behind Atlanta for the third and final National League wild-card spot. It’s crunch time, folks!
Starting Tuesday, the Braves head back home for a seven-game stand. First up, they face the struggling Colorado Rockies, a team with just 51 wins all season. This stretch of games is a golden opportunity for the Braves to build some momentum and solidify their playoff chances.
Now, let’s not forget that once you’re in the playoffs, anything can happen. The Braves know this better than anyone—just look at their recent postseason history. But to get there, they’ll need to capitalize on some key strengths.
Take Matt Olson, for example. He had a monster August, belting eight homers and driving in 27 runs, leading the team in both categories. If he keeps swinging like that, the Braves’ offense could be tough to stop.
Matt Olson goes yard for the SECOND TIME tonight, No. 25 on the year 💥 pic.twitter.com/EJcskysFZ5
— MLB (@MLB) August 30, 2024
And what about the pitching? The Braves’ rotation has been stellar since the All-Star Break, with Chris Sale, Max Fried, Reynaldo Lopez, and Spencer Schwellenbach combining for an impressive 2.86 ERA. This kind of consistency on the mound could be the backbone of a deep playoff run.
But it’s not just the starters. Raisel Iglesias has been lights-out in the bullpen, boasting a perfect 0.00 ERA in 17 appearances since the break. If the Braves can get the ball to him with a lead, they’re in good hands.
And let’s give a shout-out to Michael Harris II, whose return has been a boost for the team. He’s been making plays with the bat and even pulled off what many are calling the catch of the year against the Phillies.
OMG ROBBERY OF THE YEAR BY MICHAEL HARRIS II!? 🤯
📺: FOX pic.twitter.com/UbIlKbHkOn
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) September 1, 2024
So, while things look a bit dicey right now, there’s still plenty for Braves fans to be hopeful about. September will be a crucial month, and if the Braves can pull it all together, they could be a force to reckon with come October.
Stay tuned, this season isn’t over yet!
Image Credit: Atlanta Braves first base Matt Olson returns to form. / Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
