Atlanta Braves Disappointing 2016 is Ending with Encouraging Undertones for 2017

2016 is winding down for the Atlanta Braves. Encouraging signs have transpired in the last week leading to an optimistic outlook for 2017.

It’s probably a very small sample size, but it’s been happening every day. That’s not a fluke.

Like any other die-hard Atlanta Braves fan, I’ve been disappointed with the 2016 season. That’s not to say that I am surprised. Many of us expected this, albeit, probably not to the degree in which it has unfolded.

However, I love this team, and I couldn’t be any more encouraged by this 2016 team.

So many times over the past week, they could have thrown in the towel. They didn’t. They’ve battled, they’ve comeback, they’ve never given up.

It Ain’t Over ‘Til It’s Over

This, to me, is an indication of what we could see going into 2017. I think this week’s version of the Braves is what next year will be like, more consistently. The never-give-up mentality is something I have felt has been missing the last 2, 3, or 4 years.

It’s this kind of attitude and approach that was so profitable in the 1990’s and early 2000’s. In fact, the 1991 team set the precedent for that mentality. That ’91 team came back from behind 36 times (or something close to that) to win in their final at bat.

It’s this same mind-set that will carry them into the 2017 season. Am I expecting a complete 180 degree turn around? No. But what I am expecting is a more highly competitive showing in the standings. As long as this does carry over.

The Rallies

Over the last week, most noticeably, Atlanta has seemingly been a different team from even two weeks ago. After nearly always being behind early, this team has found ways to make things interesting and entertaining.

There is no quit in this team right now. When all signs point to going nowhere, they have shaken off and paid little attention to the fodder. They know they have a great group of competitors who want to win.

Since August 19th (end of last home-stand with Nationals), the Braves have either surrendered early leads or have fallen far behind. Those instances could have taken the winds out of a lot of the sails, but it didn’t.

After falling behind 5-0 to the Nationals, through 5 and a 1/2 innings, they mounted a comeback. Eventually losing 7-6, the signs of life were there. They refused to go quietly.

August 20th, down 9-3 to the Nats after 6 complete. What do they do? Put 6 runs on the board over the final 3 innings. They still lost 11-9, but it was the manner in which they lost that was encouraging.

The next day, down 6-4 heading the bottom of the 8th. They manage to push across 2 runs to tie it and force extras. A run in the tenth gives them a walk-off win. Again, the fight in this team is growing and not going away.

Game 1 in Arizona. Letting the D-Backs back in the game and giving up the lead, to only come back and tie it in the 9th. It would be another walk-off win, for Arizona. The point is they didn’t fold after the D-Backs took the lead.

Game 2, Atlanta took an early lead, gave it up, and took it back over for good. Always battling, never taking the easy way out and just riding out the rest of the season.

Last night, down 8-4 going into the 8th. 5 runs come across in 2 innings. Arizona walks off on a SAC fly in the 11th.

The will to win is there. It’s visible and clear they aren’t going away silently.

Pitching Struggles

Going into 2016, this was thought to be our strong point. Injuries, under-performers, and bad luck have plagued the rotation and bullpen. Yes, we need to solidify catcher, 3B (even though Adonis Garcia has been excellent lately), still needs to be addressed. It’s the pitching that more than ever, probably needs to take priority.

There’s a reason why you can never have enough pitching. The second half 2016 Braves are a shining example. Giving up runs early and surrendering leads late are just a couple of reasons.

I’m not saying it’s completely the pitchers who are at fault. Errors, both physically and mentally are there. But a little bad luck helps here, too.

The Future

I know that right now, it’s frustrating to watch. However, I’d argue that at the same time, it is also entertaining and encouraging to not see them pack it in. There’s a month left in the season. We know nothing is coming of this year.

A lot is left to be done; free agent signings and trades. I for one know Coppy and Co. will be making the best decisions to get there. Those moves are going to happen, popular or not.

I do know this though. 2017 will see Mallex Smith back healthy, Dansby Swanson and Ozzie Albies (I think) will most likely be the starting middle infielders, Ender Inciarte, Matt Kemp (minus 20 pounds hopefully) will be back. Freddie Freeman will still be there.

The core is set and more pieces developing in the low levels. But I’d also like to point out, if you haven’t seen or heard yet, that just about every level of the minors either leading or in serious contention for a playoff push.

• GCL Braves: 24-27, 1st in GCL (Northeast Division)
• Rome Braves: 36-23, 1st in Sally League (Northern Division)
• Mississippi Braves: 33-24, 1st in Southern League (North Division)
• Gwinnett Braves: 59-72, 2nd in INT League (South) 1/2 game behind 1st 

Yes, the minors are more about individual development, but when your individuals are developing to the tune of possible team division titles, it’s a good thing.

Next: Dissecting the Frenchy Deal

I’ve been disappointed and frustrated just as much as anyone else. I know, though, it can only get better. When you are at the bottom, the only direction you can go is up.

There is no place lower than last.