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With the trades they’ve made this offseason, the Atlanta Braves are set up for success in 2017 or 2018, and not 2016. That being said, Atlanta may have just enough to make some noise in the NL East. Of course, that would require everything going perfectly and the Braves remaining injury free. Here are five players the Braves need to be healthy if they’re going to have any chance of competing in 2016.
5. Erick Aybar
Credit: Getty Images5. Erick Aybar
The Braves have some great shortstop prospects, but no one who will be big league ready in 2016, so Aybar must stay healthy this year. Aybar could also be a trade chip in July, but only if he's healthy and has a productive season.
4. Arodys Vizcaino
Credit: Getty Images4. Arodys Vizcaino
Vizcaino had a breakout season in 2015 and figures to play a key role in 2016 as Atlanta's closer. The Braves don't have much experience or depth in their bullpen, so it's essential that they have Vizcaino at their disposal all season.
3. Julio Teheran
Credit: Charles LeClaire - USATODAY Sports3. Julio Teheran
Despite an uneven 2015 season, Teheran is the closest thing the Braves have to an ace. They have some young, promising pitchers in the minors, but in the majors they don't have much beyond Teheran. They'll need 30-plus starts from him this year.
2. Ender Inciarte
Credit: Getty Images2. Ender Inciarte
Inciarte is a wild card for the Braves this year, as he could help jump-start their offense at the top of the order. Losing him would be a big blow to Atlanta's chances this year, as Michael Bourn is no longer a viable big leaguer.
1. Freddie Freeman
Credit: Evan Habeeb - USATODAY Sports1. Freddie Freeman
Atlanta's entire season will revolve around Freeman, who shockingly wasn't traded this offseason. He is the most feared player in Atlanta's lineup, so if Freeman were to go out with an injury, the Braves would be doomed for sure.
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