The Atlanta Braves clinched the National League East title on Saturday against the Phillies.
Atlanta, 87-68, has surprised many with their success with many believing their success has arrived a year or two early. They started strongly to begin the year, and never faded. They were in a race with the Phillies until a few weeks back when Philadelphia hit a rut.
The Braves’ lineup is loaded with the perfect mixture of young talent and established stars. Freddie Freeman, who has been through the good, the bad, and the ugly with the Braves, is most notable.
Rookie of the Year candidates Ozzie Albies and Ronald Acuna Jr. are vital to the heart of Atlanta’s order. Other young studs include Dansby Swanson and Johan Comargo who line up on the left side of the infield.
Both Ender Inciarte and Nick Markakis have been vital to a very young team, bringing their extensive Major League experience.
The rotation is one of baseball’s best, led by Cy Young candidate Mike Foltynewicz, deadline acquisition Kevin Gausman, career-Brave Julio Teheran, Anibal Sanchez, and Sean Newcomb.
If the standings hold true, the Braves would be hosting the Dodgers in the National League Divisional Series, beginning on Thursday, October 4.
