MLB Power Rankings: Ranking the Atlanta Braves' Best Performances of 2011

With the fourth-best record in the big leagues, the Atlanta Braves are a serious contender for a deep playoff run. Led by five All-Stars, they look to overtake the Philadelphia Phillies and capture their first division title in six seasons.

While their offense hasn't been stellar, their pitching staff has been one of the best in the majors.

Let's take a look at the 10 best performances by Braves thus far.

10. Jordan Schafer, June 16th vs. New York Mets

5-for-6, 3 R

Jordan Schafer recorded a career-high five hits in the Braves' extra inning win over the New York Mets.

Though he's been streaky at times, Schafer has the potential to be the Braves leadoff man for years to come.

9. Chipper Jones, June 16th vs. New York Mets

3-for-4, HR, 5 RBI, R

Chipper Jones tied his career high in RBI as he knocked in five in the win over New York.

The bad news?

He left the game in the ninth inning with a strained abductor muscle.

8. David Ross, April 26th vs. San Diego Padres

2-for-4, 2 HR, 4 RBI, 2 R

The Braves' backup catcher belted two home runs in San Diego, once again showing that Atlanta can be at ease when McCann takes the night off.

7. Martin Prado, July 15th vs. Washington Nationals

2-for-5, HR, 2 RBI, 2 R

Martin Prado erupted in his first game off the disabled list with a homer and a pair of RBI.

If Prado continues to produce like this, look for Atlanta to make a run at Philadelphia.

6. Craig Kimbrel, July 7th vs. Colorado Rockies

1 IP, 1 K, SV

Craig Kimbrel pitched a 1-2-3 ninth inning to set the all-time saves record by a rookie before the All-Star break with 27.

He passed Jonathan Papelbon, who had 26 before the break in 2006.

5. Chipper Jones, April 27th vs. San Diego Padres

1-for-4, 3 RBI, R

With a 3-run triple against the Padres, Chipper Jones passed Mickey Mantle to move into second place on the all-time RBI-by-a-switch-hitter list.

4. Joe Mather, May 21st vs. Los Angeles Angels

4-for-6, HR, 4 RBI, R

Joe Mather came up clutch for the Braves with a three-run homer in the seventh inning and a go-ahead RBI double in the 12th.

3. Tim Hudson, May 4th vs. Milwaukee Brewers

9 IP, 6 K, H (W)

Tim Hudson allowed only one hit in this complete-game gem against the Brew Crew. 

2. Jair Jurrjens, July 1st vs. Baltimore Orioles

9 IP, 8 K, H (W)

Another complete game one-hitter, Jair Jurrjens silenced the Orioles and led the Braves to a 4-0 win.

1. Brian McCann, May 17th vs. Houston Astros

2-for-2, 2 HR, 3 RBI, 2 R

Brian McCann came off the bench to hit a pinch-hit two-run homer with two outs in the ninth inning to send the game to extra innings.

He wasn't nearly finished, though.

He stayed in the game and belted a walk-off homer in the bottom of the 12th to topple the Astros.

Not bad for a guy on his day off.