The Atlanta Braves are getting some reassuring news despite their recent struggles, with ESPN’s Bradford Doolittle projecting them with a solid 64.2% chance to win the NL East.
That’s encouraging considering how tight things have gotten. The Philadelphia Phillies sit just 2.0 games back after their impressive turnaround from a 9-19 start, while the Miami Marlins are 4.0 games behind and still very much in the conversation.
“Record: 55-40 | Projected final record: 92-70. Division title odds: 64.2% | Playoff odds: 92.8% | Championship odds: 6.7%”
What makes this projection interesting is that it accounts for Atlanta’s current rough patch. They haven’t looked like themselves lately, and losing Ronald Acuña Jr. has clearly affected their offensive rhythm.
But there’s reason for optimism.
Acuña should return shortly after the All-Star break, which could be exactly what this lineup needs. Chris Sale has been nothing short of spectacular – we’re talking legitimate Cy Young candidate territory again. The core remains strong with Matt Olson, Ozzie Albies, and rookie Drake Baldwin all earning All-Star recognition.
The bullpen’s been reliable too, giving manager Brian Snitker options late in games.
Now that we’re approaching the trade deadline, the Braves have opportunities to address their clear needs. They could use help in the outfield depth, at shortstop, and potentially another starting pitcher to complement Sale.
From where I’m sitting, that 64.2% figure could easily tick upward if Alex Anthopoulos makes the right moves before the August 3 deadline. The talent’s there – it’s just a matter of getting healthy and adding the right pieces.
The way I see it, once Acuña returns and they get some reinforcements, don’t be surprised if Atlanta starts pulling away from both Philadelphia and Miami as the season winds down. Half a season is a long time, and the Braves have shown they know how to finish strong.
