Close Article Return to stream X
MLB •

2015 MLB Spring Training: 5 Atlanta Braves Storylines to Watch

+Read full article
Reinhold Matay - USA TODAY Sports

2015 MLB Spring Training: 5 Atlanta Braves Storylines to Watch

Atlanta Braves Spring Training
Reinhold Matay - USA TODAY Sports

The Atlanta Braves' players arrived in the sunshine state this week to open up shop to partake in a long evaluation process for some in hopes of earning a roster spot. Leading up to this moment, the Braves had some interesting events that kept Braves and baseball fans talking. Take a look at the top five storylines this spring.

5. Offensive Strategy

Justin Upton Homerun
Getty Images

5. Offensive Strategy

Justin Upton Homerun
Getty Images

Last year, Justin Upton led the Braves with 29 home runs. He along with a few other contributors are now gone which leaves the Braves with less than half of their long-ball production. While chicks may dig it, fans were left with many cool breezes as the Braves' bats constantly whiffed and fanned pitches. This year, with less power, look to see an emphasis on small-ball from the Braves.

4. Second Base Battle

Jose Peraza Fielding
Getty Images

4. Second Base Battle

Jose Peraza Fielding
Getty Images

The Braves have a host of players on their roster competing for the chance to be the everyday second baseman. While prized prospect Jose Peraza is the lead candidate, other rookies and veterans will not bow out gracefully to the talented prospect. This has a chance to be a very hot topic throughout the course of the spring.

3. Offseason Moves

Jason Heyward Catch
Getty Images

3. Offseason Moves

Jason Heyward Catch
Getty Images

Jason Heyward in another uniform has not completely sunk in for Braves fans and it still may not until they realize he's not there this spring and, more importantly, in the lineup opening day. With many of the members from last year's team gone, new faces are sure to bring a little excitement among fans, even if it's at the expense of losing their favorites.

2. Fredi Gonzalez's Job Security

Fredi Gonzalez Atlanta Braves
Getty Images

2. Fredi Gonzalez's Job Security

Fredi Gonzalez Atlanta Braves
Getty Images

Fredi Gonzalez's future with the Braves is the proverbial elephant in the room in the clubhouse. Players and staff will constantly wonder whether their skipper is indeed in a lame duck year or not. If the fans had it their way, he would have been pink slipped along with Frank Wren after the season. It should be interesting how the players respond to him this season.

1. Fifth Rotation Starter

Alex Wood Braves
Getty Images

1. Fifth Rotation Starter

Alex Wood Braves
Getty Images

Last season, Alex Wood saved the Braves when a battle of attrition plagued their starting rotation. This year, the Braves will hope to have their pitching problems solved before the spring is out and with names such as veterans Eric Stults and Wandy Rodriguez to go along with talented prospects Manny Banuelos and Mike Foltynewicz -- the competition will be stiff. This may even carry over into the regular season.

Brandon Williams is an Atlanta Braves writer for www.RantSports.com. You can follow him on Twitter, @BfreshAlum4UA, “Like” him on Facebook, or add him to your network.on Google.

Your Favorites
 
 
Close Article Return to stream X
MLB• Videos•

Cubs and Braves Should Make This Blockbuster Trade

The Chicago Cubs and Atlanta Braves can both accomplish what they are currently trying to accomplish with this trade. The Cubs continue to build towards winning a World Series, while the Braves continue to build towards a strong future by stock piling prospects. Win-Win.

Comment 0 Comments