Atlanta Braves Take First Place In Tight NL East Race

After last night’s walk-off win the Atlanta Braves are finally in sole possession of first place in the National League East.  As they get set for a key series with the Phillies, Atlanta will have the advantage.

Everything is finally coming together for the Atlanta Braves. After a slow start the team is starting to come together, despite a leaky bullpen.  The Braves offense is the biggest reason they are currently in first place.

From top to bottom the lineup has been productive and always stays in games. Their comeback efforts have become the norm to the point it is surprising when the team is trailing late and doesn’t come back with late inning heroics.

With the recent addition of Dallas Keuchel the Braves are not a true postseason contender. They will need to address the bullpen before the trade deadline if they hope to continue to hold onto first place.

If they address the pen it would be surprising if this team doesn’t make it deep into the postseason.

Atlanta will be tested this weekend in a battle for supremacy in the NL East. The Phillies will be in Atlanta for a series that will decide who will be in first place going into next week.

After being swept by the Phillies in their opening series the Braves will be looking for revenge and to send a message who the best team in the East is.

It is especially encouraging to see the Braves competing considering their disappointing off-season.  An off-season where they refused to address the rotation or the obvious bullpen needs. Now with the team remaining in contention nearing the trade deadline they will have no choice but to add the pieces needed.

Atlanta will finish their series against the Pirates today with first pitch scheduled for 12:10 EST before the Phillies come to town for the biggest series Atlanta has played yet.