Braves Clinch 1st NL East Title Since 2013

The Atlanta Braves defeated the Philadelphia Phillies 5-3 to clinch their first NL East title since 2013.   Overall, it is their 14th NL East title.

Most pundits presumed the Washington Nationals would run away with the division, but instead the NL East turned into a two team race between the Braves and Phillies. The Braves climbed into first place at the beginning of May, but would relinquish top spot to the Phillies shortly before the All-Star Break. The Braves would reclaim the lead for good on August 13th. Brian Snitker will get more than a few votes for NL Manager of the Year.

The Braves largely won on the back of 20-year old outfielder Ronald Acuna, Jr. and 21-year old second baseman Ozzie Albies. Johan Camargo opened eyes with his play at third base. Nick Markakis had a resurgent season while Freddie Freeman was his usual Steady Freddie.

Their pitching won't intimidate anyone, but there is a serviceable rotation with Mike Foltynewicz, Sean Newcomb, Anibal Sanchez, Julio Teheran as well as Kevin Gausman who has been outstanding since being acquired from the Baltimore Orioles. A.J. Minter took over the closer role mid-season after Arodys Vizcaino went on the DL with a shoulder injury. Having two quality closers during the post-season could be of help to the Braves in the post-season.

The Braves will most likely face the winner of the NL West in the NLDS. As of right now that would be the Los Angeles Dodgers who have 1.5 game lead over the Colorado Rockies. No doubt the defending NL champions would be heavily favored in that contest, but it would be a mistake for pundits to write off the Braves in the post-season as they did during the regular season.