Five things to know about the Braves on Thursday
The Braves clinched a series win with their second consecutive runaway victory over the Nationals on Wednesday night. Atlanta has outscored Washington 16-2 over the first two of the three-game series.
Here’s what’s happening in Braves country:
1. The Braves clinched their first winning season in D.C. since 2013 with Wednesday's win. And they did it behind a much-improved start from rookie Luiz Gohara.
2. A month ago, Brian Snitker appeared to be safe as Braves manager. Recent reports have clouded that picture, and our Jeff Schultz ponders what it all means.
3. The organization unveiled its minor league player and pitcher of the year honors. No surprise, Ozzie Albies and Ronald Acuna were among those acknowledged.
4. Despite the uproar over Freddie Freeman playing every day, only 80-85 percent of him has still tormented opposing pitchers, writes David O'Brien.
5. The Braves are expected to shop veteran outfielders Nick Markakis and Matt Kemp this winter, FanRag's Jon Heyman reports. That doesn't come as much of a surprise: The team wants to make room for Acuna, who may earn a starting spot as a 20-year-old out of 2018 spring training.
About the Author
Gabriel Burns is a general assignment reporter and features writer for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. After four years on the Braves beat, he's expanded his horizons and covers all sports. You'll find him writing about MLB, NFL, NBA, college football and other Atlanta-centric happenings.
