The Atlanta Braves have been one of the most discussed teams in MLB this season, marked by both their resilience and challenges. Despite facing numerous injuries to key players that could have derailed other teams, the Braves stand at 86-71, keeping their postseason hopes alive with just a few games left in the regular season. However, looming issues, including Hurricane Helene, threaten their World Series aspirations. This is yet another hurdle in a season filled with obstacles, raising the question of how much more this team can endure before their season hits a breaking point.
Currently engaged in a crucial series against the New York Mets, which could determine their playoff fate, the Braves won the first game (5-1) but now face complications due to the weather from Hurricane Helene. This has led to the postponement of the remaining games, resulting in an unwanted doubleheader on the off day before the Wild Card Series.
For the Braves, this situation compounds an already difficult season. As they contend with both the Mets and the storm, they find themselves just a half-game behind the Arizona Diamondbacks for the final wild-card spot. This doubleheader right before the postseason could strain their pitching staff and limit their bullpen options, putting them at a disadvantage even if they secure a playoff spot.
While the weather poses immediate challenges, the Braves have been grappling with significant injuries throughout the season, which could be their biggest weakness as they aim for a seventh consecutive postseason appearance. Their lineup has been severely affected, leading to diminished offensive production.
The injury to Austin Riley, who fractured his right hand, has been particularly devastating. Although there was hope for his return by the end of the regular season, a recent CT scan revealed inadequate healing, effectively ending his season. This loss leaves a substantial void in Atlanta’s offense, forcing them to rely on less experienced replacements, which has hindered their run production.
As a result of these injuries, the Braves find themselves with a batting average of .244 (14th in MLB), an on-base percentage of .309 (16th), and a slugging percentage of .417 (10th)—significantly lower than their performance last season. The current lineup lacks the potency it had earlier in the year.
However, Gio Urshela, who has taken over for Riley, has done well, hitting .270 with three homers and 13 RBIs in 118 plate appearances. Additionally, players like Ramón Laureano, Whit Merrifield, and Jorge Soler, brought in to offset the losses of Ronald Acuña Jr. and other key players, have contributed enough to keep the Braves in contention.
If the Braves make it to the postseason, they have one significant advantage that has eluded them in recent playoff appearances: strong starting pitching. The rotation, featuring Chris Sale, Max Fried, Spencer Schwellenbach, Charlie Morton, and the returning Reynaldo López, has been a bright spot for the team, especially after losing Cy Young favorite Spencer Strider earlier in the season.
With the third-best ERA in the league (3.64) and leading in strikeouts per nine innings (9.53) and FIP (3.49), the starting rotation is formidable. The bullpen, anchored by Raisel Iglesias, who has recorded 32 saves and a 1.76 ERA, is equally impressive.
This pitching staff could pose a significant threat in the postseason, serving as the backbone of the team. Coupled with their tenacity in overcoming challenges this season, the Braves could find themselves back in the World Series—but they must first navigate one last storm to reach the playoffs.