Award Watch 2017: Do any Atlanta Braves have a shot at major awards?

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May 24, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Braves manager Brian Snitker (43) in the dugout before a game against the Milwaukee Brewers at Turner Field. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /

Manager of the Year: Brian Snitker

Typically, Manager of the Year goes to whichever skipper led the team that most over-preformed expectations – provided that team made the playoffs.

Of course, voters can make their selections based on whatever criteria they choose but if a team projects to go 75-87 then proceeds to go 87-75 and sneak into the playoffs, there’s a good chance that manager will win the award.

Well, according to the latest PECOTA projections, 75-87 is exactly where the Braves are expected to land.

If everything comes together in 2017 and they somehow make it into the second Wild Card spot (or better), Snitker has to be the favorite.

And who knows? If Freeman can carry over the momentum from his colossal second half, Swanson can avoid the sophomore slump, Kemp maintains his power while finding an extra step in left, Phillips and Markakis provide vintage performances…

It would take a lot but isn’t entirely out of the realm of possibility.