Atlanta Braves Preview: Back to Business in 2008

With the Official start to the 2008 season just hours away, many still wonder if Atlanta has what it takes to make it to a World Series in a Division that is said to be stacked this year.

My answer to this? YES. The Braves are definately a major contender in the NL East this season, and i'll tell you why

Let's start with the basics. The Braves two major competitors last year were both the Phillies and Mets, and things won't change this year folks. With the Nationals and Marlins both still looking grim, the Braves will once again have their hands full with those same two teams. With the Phillies being somewhat comparable to last year, the Met's have added pitching depth in Cy Young Pitcher Johan Santana. Sounds scary for the Braves doesn't it!

Not Really.....

Everyone predicts the Met's to be the team to beat in the entire National League this year, and they probably are. But remember, the Braves had the Met's number last year dominating their visits last year. So with the addition of Johan Santana things may be different right? Well... Yes,  But there is a big change in Atlanta's game as well

If you can remember back to last season, the Braves had one of the hottest hitting teams in all of baseball for most of the season, including the top 1-3 hitters in all of baseball for the longest time. With the loss of Edgar Renteria, the braves lose a big bat, but gain it with young Shortstop and apprentice to Edgar, Yunel Escobar. Escobar hit an impressive .300 last year for Atlanta's team, making the loss of Renteria not something to be so afraid of. Adding the bat of Kotsay to compensate for the struggling Andruw Jones will help the line up as well, and also give Chipper Jones a better opportunity to hit this season with clubs not seeing Andruw in the on deck circle.

The Braves biggest renewed asset will be their pitching. With pitching being the breaking point of the team last season, you will see a completely new and improved Braves pitching staff, With ace Tim Hudson kicking off the season Sunday night, we don't have to worry about the back of the rotation in the hands of struggling JoJo Reyes and Buddy Carlisle. Instead the rotation will include a healthy Mike Hampton, Tom Glavine, John Smoltz, and an improved Chuck James. The bullpen is also revamped and ready to go. So get ready Braves fans because It's going to be a fun ride in the NL East this season

 LETS GO BRAVES!