Atlanta Braves: The Future Is Looking Bright

Although Heyward didn't hit as many homeruns as we thought he would hit, he still showed great power and had great number. This young man could make it to the show as early as next season.

Scouting report: Heyward has a big, strong and athletic frame and an excellent left-handed swing with plus power potential. An advanced approach at the plate is highlighted by excellent patience. He runs well, especially for his size, and is an excellent baserunner. A strong outfielder with an above-average arm, he can play well in right. His work ethic and attitude are huge advantages.

Frederick seems to be camera shy. However, he could soon be the problem solver for the middle of the line-up that Bobby Cox has been looking for.

Scouting Report: Nobody was sure what to expect from Freddie Freeman in his first full season of pro ball in 2008 considering he was only 18 years old. But after a good first half of the season he exploded in the second half posting a line of .349/.418/.562. This got scouts to sit up and take extra notice as most kids his age experience growing pains in their first year. Freeman’s maturity and discipline help with his outstanding pitch recognition and selection at the plate. Because of this he should be able to hit for a high average in large part due to his ability to drive the ball. He will be able to hold his own in the middle of the Braves lineup someday as a run producer. Also is a good defensive first baseman which makes him all the more valuable. With how good he has proven to be at such a young age he has set quite a high ceiling for himself which is exciting if you are a Braves fan.

While Tommy has already found his way to the Show, at the age of 22 he is going to be a huge weapon for the Braves for years to come.

Hanson has a ERA of 2.98 so far this season and has done far better than management could have expected him to do this year. He has 11 wins and 107 k's.

Could this be the next Greg Maddux for the Atlanta Braves?

Jurrjens, like Hanson, is also 22 years of age. He has shown the Braves this season that he has what it takes to be a big time pitcher. Jurrjens has won 14 games this season which could have very easily been 20 if he would have had just a little more help on offense. His last 5 losses have came when his team has scored 2 runs or less. His ERA is an impressive 2.61 at this point in the season. Over the course of the season he has fanned 143 batters. Jurrjens could be another piece in what may be a great rotation for the Braves next season.

Last, but not least.

Brian McCann is by no means a rookie or a newbie any longer. However, I feel that he is the leader of the New Generation for the Braves. With Chipper on the verge of retirment, Big Mac is slowly stepping into the shoes of the team leader. He puts up good numbers every season and has the leadership to get this team back to the World Series.

I am going to be the first to say it. Big Mac will have the Braves back in the post-season.. Next Year!