The Atlanta Braves Look To Get Back Their Glory In 2010

Monday, March 1st, 2010 at 10:33 am

While the National League East is no picnic to play in, the team that comes out of this division will probably be the odds on favorite to win the National League and get to the World Series. It will not be an easy road, but Atlanta has every reason to believe that they are going to be hoisting at least one banner this season.

The Hinske signing did not perk up a lot of ears, but don't underestimate the value of this talented veteran. Let's not forget that he was the Rookie of the Year in 2002 and has the potential to hit over .300 and knock out quite a few balls. While his role will probably be that of the primary left-handed pinch hitter, his leadership and experience should lift this club up a bit.

If the Braves are going to be successful in 2010, they are going to need to see another big year from Matt Diaz. This is an exciting young ballplayer who continues to progress. His big season in 2009 was great news as he had to handle coming back from an injury. He is one of many players that will allow the Braves to contend.

Offense is great, but pitching wins. The Philadelphia Phillies took all the headlines with the signing of the Halladay, but let's not forget that they traded Lee. Starting pitching has always been their downfall and they rely on the long ball to win games. With the staff that Atlanta has, they can stop the balls from leaving the park and shut them down.

Jair Jurjens was an absolute stud last season eating up over 200 innings and winning 14 games. If he would have had better run support, it could have been a Cy Young season. If he comes anywhere close to the 2.60 ERA that he put up last year, the Braves will be ecstatic. So far, there is no reason to believe any different.

It doesn't get any better for opposing teams after Jurjens gets off the mound. Up and down, the Braves have the potential to have the best starting 5 in the baseball. Lowe, Hanson and Hudson will all take a turn and every single one of them could put up 20 wins. 100 win season is not out of the question this year.

The Braves always fill up and this season should not be any different. Anyone that wants a decent seat better get their tickets now. Make no mistake about it, 2010 will not see the Braves finish in the same position. They will be neck and neck at the top of the division and have to be a favorite to take the East.

Written by Heather Maxwell, article sponsored by Stub.com. Stub.com sells Atlanta Braves Tickets, MLB Tickets, Sports Tickets and many more tickets to just about any event in your area.

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