Atlanta Braves: 5 Things We’re Looking Forward To In 2017

An Entire Season of The Dansby Swanson Show

Ever since his debut in the majors on August 17, Dansby Swanson became the most captivating player to take the field for Atlanta each day. His swagger, his hair, his defensive plays, and his speed and all-out hustle have arguably made him the most exciting rookie to enter Major League Baseball since Bryce Harper.

Dansby Swanson already is a leading candidate for the National League Rookie of the Year for 2017.  Yes, maybe we’re biased about that, but how can we not be?

For those wondering if Swanson qualifies for ROY next year, the answer is yes.  Swanson did not exceed MLB’s rule of 130 at-bats in 2016, nor did he spend more than 45 days on the active, 25-man roster. Therefore, he is eligible to win the National League Rookie of the Year in 2017.

If Swanson had played 162 games with Atlanta this past season, then he would’ve been projected to bat .302 with 13 HR, 72 RBI, and 13 stolen bases.

However, this projection is based on his stats from 2016, where Swanson typically batted eighth in the batting order.  If Swanson is moved higher in the order next season like many believe he will, then expect those projected offensive statistics to be even higher.

Braves fans hardly got a taste of Swanson’s abilities in 2016, but next season Dansby Swanson has the opportunity to join the likes of Rafael Furcal and Craig Kimbrel and win rookie of the year as an Atlanta Brave.

With Swanson earning the starting shortstop role and SunTrust Park opening next season, 2017 will definitely mark the beginning of a new era of Braves baseball.

-Jonah Pryor