As the Braves enter the 2019 season, here’s a look at what is trending up and down with the team.
Trending up
1. The trio of Bryse Wilson, Kyle Wright and Max Fried. Each earned a spot in the opening rotation, and while the Braves will shuffle arms in and out, the three will remain an important part of the team's plans. Prospects can't remain unknowns forever; the Braves need to figure out what they have.
2. Josh Donaldson and the offense will be as potent as they come. Donaldson’s energy and confidence has stood out in the past six weeks of spring training. Freddie Freeman and Ronald Acuna will join him to make one of the most frightening 2-3-4 punches in MLB.
3. Position prospects Austin Riley and Alex Jackson are knocking at the door. Both will likely make their MLB debuts this season. Riley worked at third and first base, with some outfield sparingly sprinkled in, through March. Jackson is an option if either Brian McCann or Tyler Flowers are hurt, but he could add some pop to the bench if needed.
Trending down
1. The bullpen is a concern. A.J. Minter and Darren O’Day are sidelined with injuries. There are questions abound with how the unit will sort out – and how reliable each arm will be.
2. Sean Newcomb’s control issues persisted through spring, while Mike Foltynewicz won’t return until mid-April. The Braves will hope Newcomb gets past his walk problems, but they can’t afford to lose Foltynewicz longer than they’re slated to. The hope is he returns without lingering issues.
3. The fourth outfielder spot is up in the air. The team optioned Adam Duvall and added Matt Joyce, who’s in the driver’s seat unless it brings in another outfielder. The Braves’ hunt for bench help will probably extend through the season.
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