MLB Playoffs: 3 reasons why Atlanta Braves will win their NLDS matchup
By James Kunkle
The Atlanta Braves are about to take on the St. Louis Cardinals in the NLDS. These two teams have met before in the playoffs, but let’s hope it ends different this time.
We are about to list three simple reasons why the Atlanta Braves should emerge from this series against the Cardinals with a win. Without wasting any time, let’s get right to it.
3. The Atlanta Braves are simply deeper and more talented
Look, obviously any team that is still playing is talented and has earned the right to be here, but that doesn’t mean they are all created equal.
Players like Paul Goldschmidt, Jack Flaherty, Marcell Ozuna, and Carlos Martinez are great baseball players, but I like the Braves quartet of Ronald Acuna, Freddie Freeman, Josh Donaldson, and Ozzie Albies better.
That doesnt even mention Mike Soroka or any other pitcher the Atlanta Braves have.
Despite the rash of injuries the Atlanta Braves suffered in the second half of the season to some key depth pieces, I still think the Atlanta Braves are the deeper team.
And speaking of injuries, the injury to Kolten Wong could turn out to be a huge blow for the St. Louis Cardinals.
Wong had just completed a career year when he was diagnosed with a grade 2 hamstring strain. While he hasn’t been completely ruled out, keep in mind this is the same injury that Ender Inciarte has been dealing with since mid-August.
I have mentioned it a few times already, but it bears repeating again — I believe. The best pitcher in this series is Jack Flaherty, but I believe the second through fifth best pitchers all are employed by the Atlanta Braves.
Once again, that is a sign to the depth that this Atlanta Braves front office has assembled over the years.
So that is the first reason, let’s jump ahead to the second reason.