Injury-Plagued 2024 Behind Them, Braves Eye Historic Comeback
The Atlanta Braves enter the 2025 MLB season with renewed vigor after a disappointing 2024 campaign marred by injuries to stars like Ronald Acuña Jr., Spencer Strider, and Austin Riley. Despite winning 89 games last year—a respectable number for most franchises—the Braves’ front office labeled it a “floor, not a ceiling” as they prepare to reclaim dominance in the NL East.
Key Players Primed for Bounce-Back Seasons
All eyes are on reigning NL MVP Ronald Acuña Jr., who’s recovering from his second ACL tear. Projections suggest he’ll slash .294/.393/.526 with 26 HRs in 121 games. Meanwhile, Spencer Strider’s return bolsters a pitching staff that lost Max Fried and Charlie Morton to free agency. ZiPS forecasts breakout seasons for rookie catcher Drake Baldwin (.702 OPS) and pitcher Spencer Schwellenbach (3.62 ERA over 27 starts).
Front Office Gambles on Internal Talent
With minimal offseason moves beyond signing Jurickson Profar (.743 OPS projection), Atlanta bets big on:
- Austin Riley: Projected 29 HR/.842 OPS rebound after injury-limited 2024
- Matt Olson: Expected to regain form with 32 HRs
- Nacho Alvarez Jr.: Rookie shortstop could solve defensive woes
Blockbuster Trade Looming?
Bleacher Report identifies the Braves as top suitors for Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette. The two-time All-Star ($33M contract) could replace struggling Orlando Arcia if he rebounds from a career-worst .598 OPS in 2024.
Postseason or Bust
ZiPS projections rank Atlanta among World Series favorites despite fierce NL East competition from Juan Soto-led Mets and defending division champ Phillies. With eight straight playoff appearances on the line, GM Alex Anthopoulos hinted: “We’re built for October—health is our only opponent.”
