Atlanta Braves: Dansby Swanson Having a Breakout Season

Atlanta Braves shortstop Dansby Swanson is in the midst of what appears to be a breakout season for the young infielder. Already threatening last year’s totals Swanson is on pace to lead the team offensively.

While many thought Dansby would take a step forward this season even the most ardent Atlanta Braves fans have to be surprised with his early production. Swanson is hitting 2nd in the Braves lineup and has arguably been the team’s most consistent hitter over the last month.

Swanson has already swatted 12-homers just 2 less than his total from last season (14), while leading the team for much of the season in RBI’s. He has brought home 42-runners already just 17 away from last year’s total.

He is getting on base consistently and is working the count instead of constantly chasing pitches outside.

In what has been an up-and-down start for Atlanta there is little question Swanson has been the team’s MVP. He has been more productive than Ronald Acuna Jr. and the player the team needed to step up alongside Freddie Freeman.

While Ozzie Albies and Austin Riley have made an impression more recently Swanson always seems to make big plays and come up with clutch hits when the team needs them the most.

What is most exciting about Swanson’s breakout season is the likelihood he can maintain his current pace.  His adjustments that have led to his success are sustainable and should continue improve his numbers.

The biggest factor for Swanson has been his ability to stop chasing breaking pitches that aren’t strikes. That along with a shorter and more compact swing have led to his power surge and uptick in production.

If the Braves are going to chase down the division leading Phillies they will need Swanson to maintain his production. If not the team will struggle to carry a terrible bullpen and inconsistent pitching staff.