Making the Mark in Atlanta

The Braves are one of the most powerful teams in the AL. And I'm saying that in 2018. Wow.

The odd part is that not a lot has changed since the last team, the one that made 3rd/4th last year. The only thing that's changed is that all the elements that were sort of working over the last few years are REALLY working right now. For instance- have you seen Nick Markakis in an Atlanta Braves uniform looking THIS POWERFUL before this year? He's evoking serious memories of his Orioles self, not just in his incredible numbers in the hits and average categories, but in how consistent and durable he's seeming, after showing only one dimension the last few years. The guy's finally on, and perhaps he deserves his first-ever All Star Game nomination.

That's not all, though. Freddie Freeman, Ozzie Albies, Ronald Acuna, Sean Newcomb and a newly-revitalized Dansby Swanson are all playing beautifully, and are lifting the team above the Phillies for the 1st place standing at the moment. This is a team that is withstanding competition from Philly, as well as from the down-but-not-out Washington Nationals. It's a crazy year to be in the NL East, because even the unlikely heroes, like the Braves and Phillies, can do well, and they certainly are.

The series is Braves-Phillies right now, and it could decide either the way of the rest of the season, or the way of, like, a week or so. I'm not sure how long the Braves will hold onto the lead, but I have a feeling they'll definitely be in the race for a while.

Coming Tomorrow- An infielder for a wild but ineffective AL Central team.