"He never went more than two games in a row without a hit, that's pretty amazing."@Braves broadcaster Joe Simpson details his experience witnessing the historic Ronald Acuña Jr. 2023 season! #MLBNHotStove pic.twitter.com/yQCucQNVZI
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) November 16, 2023
What if the Atlanta Braves season began today?
If the season began today, the Braves lineup would remain practically unchanged outside of the void created when Eddie Rosario was non-tendered. This is how Snit would likely fill out his lineup card:
1. Ronald Acuna Jr.
2. Ozzie Albies
3. Austin Riley
4. Matt Olson
5. Marcell Ozuna
6. Sean Murphy/Travis d'Arnaud
7. Jarred Kelenic/Vaughn Grissom
8. Orlando Arcia
9. Michael Harris II
2023 NL MVP Ronald Acuna would of course be at the top of the lineup. Why fix what isn't broken? Then the Braves have a gauntlet for opposing pitchers to navigate with Albies, Riley, Olson, Ozuna, and Murphy or TDA.
If I were to point out any potential weakness it lies in the 7-8 spot as Kelenic and Grissom could struggle and with Arcia you never know what version of him you will get. Will it be the first half from 2023 Arcia or the second half version?
Michael Harris II could start slow like he did last year but more than likely he will be a great option hitting in front of Acuna. Pitchers are almost forced to face the lefty with sneaky power threat.
I'm almost certain that is going to be the exact lineup we see on Opening Day. Atlanta does not need to add another offensive option outside of the bench.
Right now, the Braves bench is comprised of Kelenic/Grissom, TDA/Murphy, and Forrest Wall. Two spots remain unfilled on the bench and I expect David Fletcher to take one of them. Your guess is as good as mine as to who the final choice will be. However, Atlanta did sign outfielder Leury Garcia on a MiLB deal so he is a candidate.
Now, what about the pitching?