Braves Season Updates ⚾️

Comeback Season: Strider and Riley Return

Spencer Strider and Austin Riley are back after injury-plagued 2024 campaigns. Both All-Stars have shown promising signs in spring training. Strider's velocity has returned to pre-injury levels, while Riley's power stroke appears intact. Their successful returns could be the difference between playoff contention and championship contention.

Acuña Adjusts Approach

Ronald Acuña Jr. plans to modify his base running style following his 2023 ACL injury. "I'd rather steal 30 bases and be in the lineup than try to steal 70 and something pops up," Acuña told ESPN's Marly González. Don't expect another 70-steal season, but a healthier, more available Acuña could still deliver MVP-caliber production. His return remains on track for early May and we couldn’t be more pumped.

Kelenic's Spring Training…Blowout?

Jarred Kelenic faces both immediate and long-term pressure. With Acuña returning by May 2nd, his window for everyday playing time narrows. But the stakes extend beyond 2025 - Kelenic and Acuña can both become free agents after 2028, creating a potential outfield vacuum. While Harris remains locked up through 2032, the farm system lacks clear outfield successors. Luis Guanipa tops Braves' outfield prospects but isn't a guaranteed solution. Kelenic's development isn't just about this season; it's about Atlanta's outfield construction for years to come. His power potential and affordability make him a potentially crucial piece if he can solve his consistency issues.

Spring Standouts

Three players turning heads in camp:

Nacho Alvarez Jr. - The 21-year-old shortstop prospect has impressed with his defensive range and surprising pop. While AA is his likely destination, he's forced his way into future infield conversations.

Spencer Schwellenbach - After dominating the upper minors, the right-hander has showcased three plus pitches and excellent command. He's positioning himself for an early-season call-up when rotation needs arise.

Hurston Waldrep - The former first-rounder has refined his splitter, already a devastating pitch. His velocity bump and improved control have coaches suggesting he could impact the bullpen by mid-season.

Pitching Staff: Holmes Gets His Shot

Looks like Grant Holmes is finally getting his big break! Snit loved what he saw from Holmes during Wednesday's off-day work against minor leaguers. Four solid innings later, and the former first-rounder appears headed for the rotation. Talk about perseverance - this guy's been grinding for years!

Hector Neris also impressed in his session. The veteran reliever gives us another reliable arm for those nail-biting late innings. Between Holmes stepping up and Neris bringing his experience, our pitching staff is shaping up nicely despite last year's injury avalanche.

Braves in the Community

How amazing is it to support a team that genuinely cares? The Braves Foundation knocked it out of the park again during #ReadAcrossAmericaWeek, bringing Hank Aaron's inspiring story to the eager Tiger Cubs at Burnett Elementary! These moments remind us why we bleed Braves navy and red - our team builds champions both on the field AND in our neighborhoods. From classroom visits to youth baseball clinics, the Braves organization continuously demonstrates what makes them Atlanta's heart and soul. This isn't just our team - it's our community heroes making real differences in children's lives every day. Proud to be Braves Country!

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