5 Predictions for the 2021 Atlanta Braves Season

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - OCTOBER 15: Austin Riley #27 of the Atlanta Braves celebrates after hitting an RBI single against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the sixth inning in Game Four of the National League Championship Series at Globe Life Field on October 15, 2020 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
ARLINGTON, TEXAS - OCTOBER 15: Austin Riley #27 of the Atlanta Braves celebrates after hitting an RBI single against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the sixth inning in Game Four of the National League Championship Series at Globe Life Field on October 15, 2020 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
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Atlanta Braves
Austin Riley of the Atlanta Braves celebrates a home run with teammate Freddie Freeman. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

After coming a game shy of playing in the World Series for the first time since 1999 a year ago, the Atlanta Braves return to the field for the 2021 season with high expectations.

Looking back at the shortened 2020 season, the Atlanta Braves were once again in their normal spot atop the NL East. Atlanta finished 35-25 overall during the 60 game season, and made the Postseason for the third consecutive season, reaching the NLCS for the first time since 2001.

Last season was arguably one of the most entertaining and best teams to follow in recent memory for the Braves, despite the shortened season.

Who can forget the 29-run game, the “Mix It Up” celebration, or the big-time Postseason moments including Freddie’s walk-off and Ozzie’s and Riley’s HRs just to name a few. What about the award-winners including Freddie Freeman winning his first career NL MVP?

Atlanta Braves are poised for greatness in 2021

The 2020 MLB season despite the outcome was a very successful one for the Braves, but 2021 has the potential to be even better.

Yes, there is no universal DH, but the Braves return almost all of a very-potent lineup from a year ago.

Atlanta re-signed slugger Marcell Ozuna to a long-term deal while also bringing in veteran starters Charlie Morton and Drew Smyly to strengthen the rotation.

The Braves will also see the return of Mike Soroka to the rotation this season after suffering an injury last year, as well as the first full MLB season for top prospect Cristian Pache.

The Braves are loaded with talent once again this season with sights of a World Series appearance within grasp. Let’s take a look at a few predictions for the Atlanta Braves in 2021.

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