A look at the biggest things facing the Atlanta Braves face as they prepare to open the 2018 season:
1. Under what circumstances does this team become a contender?
The obvious weaknesses of the Braves are starting pitching and a lack of power in the lineup.
Great pitching can help overcome areas of weakness, but there is little that can overcome poor starting pitching. This team can, however, contend if Julio Teheran reverts to all-star form, Brandon McCarthy has a 200-inning season and 15 wins and some combination of prospects establish themselves as major league pitchers. Mike Foltynewicz seems headed in the right direction, and Luiz Gohara and Sean Newcomb will get their shots. Walks and home runs doomed the staff last year. Cut those down, and there is hope.
As for power, the hope is super prospect Ronald Acuna’s arrival will help, though even if he manages 20 home runs there is still a lack of pop at third base and right field. The Braves don’t have to hit 200 homers, but they need to get into the upper half of the National League to contend.