2013 NLDS Preview: Atlanta Braves vs. Los Angeles Dodgers

Sep 29, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Braves first baseman Freddie Freeman (5) puts his arm around catcher Brian McCann (16) in the dugout during the game against the Philadelphia Phillies at Turner Field. The Braves won 12-5. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Liles-USA TODAY Sports

Overview

After leading the National League East division for basically the entire year, the Atlanta Braves will be taking on the Los Angeles Dodgers of in the National League Division Series.

The Dodgers initially struggled this season and at one point it seemed like the entire city of LA would be a bust in baseball (come on now, Angels). However, Yasiel Puig ignited the team, and they proceeded to take the NL West division with a record of 92-70.

It’s really a shame that the Braves weren’t able to come away with the best record in baseball, because I do think the Dodgers pose a greater challenge than the Pirates and the Reds. However, there is no point in worrying about either of those teams right now (and as a Braves fan, I definitely don’t want to think about the Cardinals in the playoffs) and so we are going to be comparing each aspect of the Dodgers with the Braves.

You can find a summary of our preview below, but if you click through each of the next four slides you will get Brad Rowland and my extensive thoughts on the starting rotations, lineups, bullpens and benches of both clubs.

Starting Rotation: Advantage Dodgers

Starting Lineup: Advantage Braves

Bullpen: Advantage Braves

Bench: Advantage Dodgers

Based on our comparisons I would give the Braves a slight edge in the series, and when you also consider the home field advantage it seems even more evident that the Braves have a really good chance at finally going past the NLDS.

Predictions:

Carlos – Braves in 5

Brad – Braves in 5