Atlanta Braves: Five Reasons They Are Ready To Compete
Kemp and Phillips return to form.
With the reemergence of Matt Kemp, and the surprising trade for Brandon Phillips, the Atlanta Braves went from worst to first in terms of buzz surrounding the team going into spring training.
Braves fans just think about this infield, which will consist of not only Freddie Freeman and Dansby Swanson, but also an All-Star in Phillips… Last season we saw Kemp arrive in Atlanta in a big way, and if Phillips can do the same we might just see something magical happen inside of SunTrust Park in its inaugural season.
Brandon Phillips is a fun player to watch who is capable of hitting .280-.300 from the 6th spot in the Braves lineup and providing them with great production. Kemp will offer protection for Freddie Freeman and a full season of a legitimate power hitter that the Braves have lack in their lineup for quite some time.
Next: Braves Off-season Targets
If the Braves want to surprise as contenders both of these hitters are going to have to impress early and often in the Braves season. If they cannot then the Braves will be stuck with yet another season of mediocrity. The Braves first Spring Training game is scheduled for this Saturday.