5. Matt Olson
If it was not for his teammate Ronald Acuna Jr., Matt Olson would be getting more consideration for National League MVP. Olson currently leads all of MLB in home runs and RBIs. He is also currently hitting for the highest average of his 8-year career while playing a gold glove caliber first base.
.274 batting average, 47 homeruns, 116 RBIs.
6. Bryce Elder
Bryce Elder has been the biggest surprise for the 2023 Braves team. With the starting pitching rotation battling injuries early on this season and struggling to find their groove, Elder stood in the gap. He has made the most of his opportunity, consistently proving he can be relied on.
162.1 innings pitched, 12-4 record, 3.38 ERA, 120 strikeouts.
7. Sean Murphy
Many people were surprised that the Braves acquired Sean Murphy in the offseason since two all-star catchers were already on the roster. As it turns out, Alex Anthopoulos knew what he was doing. Are we surprised?
Murphy has stepped into a role where he can be the number one catcher on the depth chart but also share time with Travis d'Arnaud to protect his health. As a result, he is having the best season of his career.
.267 batting average, 20 HR, 67 RBIs.
8. Orlando Arcia
Orlando Arcia is another player who is having the best season of his career and was a surprise all-star. Arcia earned an everyday starter role for the first time as a big leaguer. After Dansby Swanson signed with the Chicago Cubs and no Braves' prospects stood out in spring training, Arcia proved he deserved the shortstop job.
The type of freedom and energy Arcia plays with is wholesome to watch. He truly enjoys playing the game of baseball and his teammates. Such a positive attitude and outlook have a lot to do with his success.
.281 batting average, 17 homeruns, 58 RBIs.
The Braves will continue their series with the Pirates on Saturday. Atlanta will hope the Marlins stay hot in Philly as well and assist in knocking the magic number down even lower.