Braves Question #9

2011 MLB Season Preview

Biggest Questions for the 2011 Braves:

9. Can the Braves win easy?

In 2010, nothing seemed to come easy for the Braves. Discounting the myriad of injuries suffered for the Braves last season, the simple act of winning games was never easy for this team. 55 games were decided by one run in 2010. The difference in 2011 is that Billy Wagner won’t be there to save the game for the Braves.

Wagner was great for the Braves in 2010. He saved 37 games while only blowing 7 saves. He struck out over 100 batters in just under 70 innings pitched, and walked only 22 batters all season. This year, the Braves will turn over the closing duties to the young Craig Kimbrel. Kimbrel pitched well last season, but it is a safe bet that he won’t be the rock that Wagner was. If Kimbrel struggles, Jonny Venters will be another option for Fredi Gonzalez in the closer’s role. In either situation, one of these guys is going to be a closer for the first time, and while they are talented, the mental part of closing usually takes some experience to master.

The Braves made things harder on themselves many times in 2010 than they really have to be. Everyone remembers the dramatic walk off wins, but it will be very important for the 2011 Braves to require less drama to pick up victories.

Winning easier would also help the Braves on the road where they struggled mightily in 2010. When you play close games on the road, and the other team gets the last at bat, you are setting yourself up for disappointment. Playing close games took its toll on the Braves in 2010.

On July 21 the Braves held a 7 game lead over Philadelphia. The Braves lost the division by 6 games. All of those close games took their toll on this team. The 162 game baseball season is the longest grind in sports, but playing close games on a nightly basis will make the season seem even longer.

With the starting pitching the Braves have, as well as the offense that should be better than last year, the Braves should be able to win some easy games in 2011, and make the summer a lot more enjoyable for Braves’ fans.

Coming later today, question #8 for the Braves!