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Atlanta Braves: Can the Braves Compete Without an Ace?

By Kit Anderson

Jun 25, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Julio Teheran (49) throws a pitch against the New York Mets in the fifth inning at Turner Field. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 25, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Julio Teheran (49) throws a pitch against the New York Mets in the fifth inning at Turner Field. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /
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Can the Atlanta Braves compete in 2017 without any major changes to their current roster?

The Atlanta Braves have been in a myriad of trade rumors and failed to find the deal they were looking for that would bring their rotation a true ace ahead of Julio Teheran. The one player the Braves seemed really interested in adding to their rotation (Chris Sale) was traded to Boston for a prospect haul that made the Braves look wise for holding off on any potential Chris Sale deals.

Even without a Chris Sale, the Braves have gotten better adding veteran pitchers Jaime Garcia, Bartolo Colon, and R.A. Dickey to their rotation. They added super utility man Sean Rodriguez well, he will provide a depth option behind multiple positions including 2nd baseman Jace Peterson.

While the Braves still could make big moves they seem content with their current roster. If they stick with the current roster can the 2017 Braves compete or will they repeat the long season they had in 2016.

The Braves’ 2016 season was long but one that their team finished strongly playing over .500 the final two months of the season. With an improved bench and pitching staff there is reason to believe that the Braves can maintain their late surge into the 2017 season.

The problem for the Braves will be the lack of having an elite rotation or an elite offense. Fans will have to remain patient with the Braves rebuild. The Braves will compete in 2017 but not for a postseason spot. As is the Braves roster is capable of playing .500 and remaining in the wild-card race for the majority of the year. Unless the Braves’ prospects prove themselves sooner than expected however, Braves fans will have to remain patient for another season before their team returns to postseason.

Next: Braves Off-season Targets

The rebuild has been one of the fastest complete overhauls of any roster in recent memory and in time should be well worth it. Fans will have plenty to look forward to with a full season of young shortstop Dansby Swanson.

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