for a WS run, which is not something I thought could have been said about the Braves this year after Strider went down.


No, the complete opposite problem has arisen: a complete lack of slugging. After setting the all time record for slugging in 2023, the Braves can't buy a hit w/RISP this season. I know they lead the league in pitching shutouts this year. They probably also lead the league in being shutout.


Still, with this pitching, all they need is for somebody to go all 2021 post season Eddie Rosario and they could easily bring home another title. Or get swept losing 2-1 and 1-0 in the WC round.



At least two dozen such games are looming super large for the Braves right now, but one stands out in particular: losing 1-0 to the 2024 Chicago White Sox. Win any one of those 24+ extremely winnable games where they had superb pitching efforts and today doesn't matter. Knowing that a 1-0 loss to the White Sox could be sending them home today is beyond words.