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Atlanta Braves: 10 reasons why we are now at this point

By James Kunkle

ATLANTA, GA - APRIL 15: Members of the Atlanta Braves stand during the national anthem wearing number 42 for the game against the San Diego Padres at SunTrust Park on April 15, 2017 in Atlanta, Georgia. All MLB players are wearing number 42 in honor of Jackie Robinson. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA - APRIL 15: Members of the Atlanta Braves stand during the national anthem wearing number 42 for the game against the San Diego Padres at SunTrust Park on April 15, 2017 in Atlanta, Georgia. All MLB players are wearing number 42 in honor of Jackie Robinson. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images) /
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Atlanta Braves
PITTSBURGH, PA – AUGUST 21: Kevin Gausman #45 of the Atlanta Braves pitches in the first inning against the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park on August 21, 2018 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images) /

6. Kevin Gausman trade

Everyone knew the Braves were most likely going to add a pitcher at the trade deadline, but all the speculation was on other pitchers (Archer).

The Gausman rumors started circulating on July 30th and became reality on the 31st. Braves’ fans had mixed reviews on the deal, but Gausman has done nothing but pitch outstanding since he became a Brave… better than Chris Archer, in fact.

Maybe it was switching over to the NL and getting out of the AL East, but give some credit to both Gausman and pitching coach Chuck Hernandez as they switched his pitching mechanics since coming to Atlanta.

Kevin has only allowed more than 3 ER in just 1 game since coming over, and that was a game he allowed 4 ER. In turn, he has lowered his ERA from 4.47 to 3.92.

The best part is he will be a Brave for a few more years to come and we didn’t give up a massive haul like the one the Pirates gave up to the Rays.

5. Ozzie’s power trip

From mid-April to late May, Albies was crushing the ball. 14 of his 22 home runs all came before May 22nd.

Obviously his pace has slowed down since then, but I think we would all agree we love seeing the helmet fly off on tons of Albies doubles as well. The power was fun, but there is nothing wrong at all with a .270 hitter who plays good second base.

Ozzie is still averaging an on base percentage over .300 and has a OPS of .770. Compare that to where he ended the month of May with .858 OPS.

That is a good example of how Albies was crushing the ball as the weather got warmer in Atlanta. Also, where would the Braves be without the exploding friendship between Albies and Acuna?

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