Atlanta Braves 2014 Season Preview: Staff Predictions

Mar 19, 2014; Lake Buena Vista, FL, USA; Atlanta Braves outfielder Justin Upton (8) fouls off a pitch in the second inning of the spring training exhibition game against the New York Yankees at Champion Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports

Ben Pace

I have several predictions for this year’s Atlanta Braves preview.

• I think the Braves will make the playoffs in the Wild Card slot, and end up playing the runner-up of the NL Central.
• I predict that BJ Upton will rebound and lead the team in stolen bases.
• I predict that Julio Teheran will win over 15 games this season if he can stay healthy.
• Lastly, it’s not so much a prediction as a hope, but I “hope” the Braves don’t finish as near the basement while hitting with runners in scoring position as they did last season. It will certainly help the offensive output if they improve there.