Atlanta Braves: Dansby Swanson Set to Take Step Forward in 2018

The Atlanta Braves put a lot of expectations on Dansby Swanson this past season expecting the rookie to perform at an all-star level. While Swanson may have failed to deliver he still is set to continue to improve and be the shortstop of the future.

The Atlanta Braves continued their struggles this past season failing to show much improvement moving into their new ballpark.  Dansby Swanson struggled along with his club failing to deliver on the high expectations many fans had for him.

Despite that, Swanson showed a lot of promise and is set to take a step forward into next season. Swanson finished with a .232 average and getting on base at a .312 clip. His numbers were helped a lot by a big final few months of the season.

After an unlucky first month of the season Swanson seemed to start chasing pitches out of the zone and struggled to hit breaking balls. After a brief stint in the minor leagues Swanson returned and seemed to be refocused.

His new approach at the plate showed more discipline and a better ability to hit breaking pitches. It is important to remember as well that Swanson is only twenty-three years old and not long out of college ball.

Add in the fact that unrealistic expectations were placed on the rookie and it is surprising that Swanson thrived at the plate at the end of the year.

He showed a new found patience and better pitch recognition then he did earlier in the season. That is exciting for both Swanson and the Braves.

While he may have had a disappointing season considering his age and the talent that he has shown flashes of he is set to take a step forward in 2018. A step that will silence his doubters and prove that he is the shortstop of the future for the Atlanta Braves.