ajc
Over the past ten years, pitching has rarely been a concern for the Atlanta Braves. Offensively, since their record-setting 2023 season, the team has consistently ranked within the top 10 in the National League in most standard statistical categories.
However, questions linger about how much better the 2026 squad could have been—or how potent the 2027 version might become—with a bit more offensive firepower. The Braves captured 94 wins and the NL East title in 2026, yet their batting average (.246), hits (1,348), and runs (742) each ranked seventh in the league. Their 204 home runs tied for fourth, and their .718 OPS placed ninth.
Individually, several Braves delivered notable performances. Catcher Sean Murphy posted a .912 OPS, while outfielder Michael Harris II recorded a .612 OPS. First baseman Matt Olson contributed a .281 OPS, third baseman Austin Riley had a .631 OPS, and second baseman Ozzie Albies finished with a .611 OPS. Designated hitter Marcell Ozuna played the lowest number of games in a season in which he hit his fewest home runs, and utility player Nick Allen avoided a career-worst strikeout rate.
Ronald Acuña Jr. played just 100 games and finished with a .422 OPS, while Mike Yastrzemski managed only 552 games. The team seemed to be waiting for a reliable run producer, but long home games often failed to connect. As the Braves present a lineup with more competitive at-bats, analysts and fans alike expect improved numbers.
Some wonder what more the Braves can do to boost their attack. With a little creativity, the worst-case scenarios might be avoided. The winter remains a time for the organization to find confidence in a hitter who can provide a spark. There is also belief that a healthy Acuña, a full season from Riley, and a rebound from Murphy could restore the lineup's potency.
If Jurickson Profar opts out of his contract, the Braves could have a void in left field. A free-agent signing or trade might be needed to fill that spot. Since the 2021 season, the Braves have welcomed several outfielders, but the position has been somewhat unsettled. Then again, the Braves could explore the designated hitter market if they decide to move on from Ozuna.
In 2022, the Braves won 101 games but were eliminated by the Phillies in the NLDS. The 2023 team won 104 games but fell to the Phillies again in the NLDS. In 2024, they won 89 games and lost to the Padres in the wild-card series. In 2025, they missed the playoffs with 87 wins. The 2026 squad won 94 games but lost to the Dodgers in the NLCS.
Only the Dodgers (906) had a better record than the Braves (906) over the past seven seasons. The Braves had the second-most wins in baseball during that span, trailing only the Dodgers.
Originally reported by ajc.