Somebody needs to call 911, because the Atlanta Braves’ offense is on fire. The Braves are now 10-3 since manager Brian Snitker boldly rearranged the batting lineup on May 10th–a day that will live in infamy. Snitker moved Acuna back atop the order, with Swanson batting number 2 and Josh Donaldson lighting it up from the clean-up spot.
Overall, Snitker’s move is working. Although it’s still early, the Braves are shaping up to have one of the most dangerous offenses in the league. They have a 78% chance of making the playoffs at the moment, with an OPS of .777, an overall batting average of .259.
“I wouldn’t want to face our lineup,” said starting pitcher Max Fried. “It’s really deep. It’s hitter after hitter. … It’s challenging every time.” While it is inevitable that the Braves will face some highs and lows throughout the long season, right now, they show no signs of slowing down.
The Braves defeated the Giants 5-4 in extra innings today. Acuna struggled, but both Swanson and Donaldson had two hits a piece, with Swanson scoring twice and Donaldson scoring once. Of course, the top of the order doesn’t account for the whole offense. Dynamic left-fielder Austin Riley added three hits, three RBIs, and one run, while catcher Tyler Flowers blasted a solo home-run.
But the biggest surprise of the game came in the form of Ozzie Albies. The 22 year-old second-baseman has been in a bit of a slump since the lineup switch. In fact, you could argue that the only person who didn’t benefit from Snitker’s brave new lineup was Albies, who had been hitting lead-off before the changes were made. Albies was a fantasy goldmine prior to the changes, but has struggled hitting from the 6, 7, and 8 slot, where he’s been shifting around since May 10th. Today, Albies finally found his stride, batting 3 for 5 with one RBI. Ablies’ fantasy owners may finally rejoice–he has awakened!



