The Atlanta Braves' path to finding a way back into the National League East race just grew a bit easier with Philly's recent misfortune. Star reliever Phillies José Alvarado has been suspended by the league for 80 games after breaking the banned substance policy. It offers Atlanta an unquestionable advantage, making Philly's bullpen a current weakness that could help the Braves fight their way back into the division race.
While this is good news for Atlanta, the team is in no position to judge, having a notable player of their own suspended due to the same selfish choice. Still, this is a notable advantage as Atlanta continues to claw its way back from a 0-7 start. Perhaps the one downside is the fact that this likely means Philly and Atlanta are going to be competing for the same trade deadline additions, with both teams in need of bullpen reinforcements.
José Alvarado Suspension Gives Braves Big NL East Advantage Over Phillies
At least the Braves can find a silver lining in Profar's suspension in the surprise emergence of both Eli White and Alex Verdugo. It gave the team a long look at Jarred Kelenic as well, providing the final answer on the struggling outfielder. Atlanta's setback remains a frustration, however, they now have a chance to take advantage of a similar situation with a division rival.
While it remains an uphill battle, it isn't impossible with Atlanta trailing the division-leading Mets by 6 games entering play today and 5.5 games behind the Philadelphia Phillies. Adding to this potential surge is the quickly approaching returns of Ronald Acuña Jr. and Spencer Strider.
Atlanta's two best players haven't yet had an impact this season, and the expectation is that this will drastically change the team's ceiling. Alvarado's suspension, being timed just as Atlanta is getting its stars back into the fold, is hopefully a sign of things to come.
One thing that suggests Atlanta's season isn't yet lost is the team now having the talent and perhaps the needed opening to climb back not only into postseason relevance, but perhaps atop arguably the best division in baseball.