Atlanta Braves Ender Inciarte, Ozzie Albies and Cristian Pache already working out

Braves players working out in cages, already getting ready for 2018

It’s that time of year again when whenever you hear a sound similar to a baseball sound, you get excited.  For me, like many others, it’s the crack of the bat — and right now, I can’t get enough.

2018 is a big year for the Atlanta Braves.  The fans definitely know this, the front office is feeling it and I think the players are as well.  This rebuild, the international investigation, the departure of the “Johns” and the new regime…everything is piling up.

Like any profession, it’s good to get away and relax for a little.  Time away from your job is a good thing.  But you can’t take the passion out of a ball player.  A little swinging and working out if good for the body.  If you’re sitting on the couch catching up on Stranger Things or Game of Thrones, you’re doing it wrong.

We’ve seen this before around this time — players posting their workouts — but it’s always spectacular to see and get an insight into their lives.  That’s the part where social media is so cool.

On Thursday, three Braves players posted on social media their workouts.  Ender Inciarte, Ozzie Albies and Cristian Pache.  All in the cages swinging away.  Albies gave us a glimpse of his offseason workout plan.

Ender Inciarte

Ozzie Albies

Cristian Pache

We’ve got 90 days until Opening Day 2018, but I already have baseball fever.

Next: Remember the name: Cristian Pache

Here are a couple important dates to keep in mind

Deadline to exchange salary arbitration figures – January 12th

Hall of Fame ballot results announced – January 24th

Pitchers and catchers report to camp – February 13th

First workout for pitchers and catchers – February 14th

Position players report to camp – February 18th

First workout for position players – February 19th

Spring Training 1st game – February 23rd against the Mets

Opening Day – March 29th against the Phillies