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Four Predictions about Atlanta Braves Pressing Issues

By Alan Carpenter

Apr 10, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Braves shortstop Erick Aybar (1) chases after a deflected ground ball against the St. Louis Cardinals during the third inning at Turner Field. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 10, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Braves shortstop Erick Aybar (1) chases after a deflected ground ball against the St. Louis Cardinals during the third inning at Turner Field. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 24, 2016; Lake Buena Vista, FL, USA; Atlanta Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez (33) talks with umpire Jeff Nelson (45) about placement of a hitting net on the field protection both team coaches before the first inning of a spring training baseball game against the Philadelphia Phillies at Champion Stadium. The nets were ordered removed prior to play. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 24, 2016; Lake Buena Vista, FL, USA; Atlanta Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez (33) talks with umpire Jeff Nelson (45) about placement of a hitting net on the field protection both team coaches before the first inning of a spring training baseball game against the Philadelphia Phillies at Champion Stadium. The nets were ordered removed prior to play. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports /

2.  Fredi Gonzalez

On the heels of last week’s veiled threat against Gonzalez’ job, the gloves are still off unless the Braves truly rally strongly from that 0-9 start.  The schedule will prevent this until at least mid-May, but that same schedule would also appear to allow a strong finish to the season…. once getting through June or so, that is.

That said, while Fredi has a team-exercisable contract option for 2017, the drum-beats for change will grow increasingly louder as this season rolls along while that option sits in limbo.  Last season, the contracts for 2016 were inked just before the disastrous Colorado series.  If Fredi survives that long and if his option is not exercised by the All-Star break this season, we could see a resignation somewhere around the July 31st trade deadline.

Prediction:  Contract options are not exercised for Fredi, Carlos Tosco, or Roger McDowell.  They resign in August.  Kevin Seitzer survives.  An interim manager is named for the balance of the season.

Next: Anybody Wanna Shortstop?

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