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1 Way Atlanta Braves Can Become True Title Contenders
TL;DR
The Atlanta Braves lead the NL with a 23-10 record, but star Ronald Acuna Jr. is underperforming. Michael Harris II and Ozzie Albies have stepped up, making the Braves true title contenders.
Key points
- Atlanta Braves have the best NL record at 23-10
- Ronald Acuna Jr. is underperforming with a .248 average
- Michael Harris II leads the team with a .324 batting average
- Ozzie Albies has 41 hits and a .320 batting average
Atlanta BravesColorado Rockies
1 Way Atlanta Braves Can Become True Title Contenders
The Atlanta Braves have the best record in the NL at 23-10 entering Saturday's matchup with the Colorado Rockies, but the way they've gotten there has been unexpected.
For one, star right fielder Ronald Acuna Jr. has been far from their best player despite his talent and accolades. The 2023 NL MVP is hitting just .248 with a .736 OPS over 33 games, far below his career .288 batting average and .901 OPS.
Meanwhile, less-accomplished players like center fielder Michael Harris II and second baseman Ozzie Albies have been more effective. Harris tops the squad with a .324 batting average and has a .926 OPS, while Albies is hitting .320 with a .908 OPS and leads the team with 41 hits.
Harris was the NL Rookie of the Year in 2022, but he logged just a .249 average and .678 OPS over 160 games last year. Additionally, Albies is a three-time All-Star and two-time Silver Slugger, but he hit .240 with a .671 OPS over 157 games last season.
Conversely, Acuna has never struggled to that level over a full campaign. The 28-year-old's biggest issue historically has been injuries, as he tore his right ACL in 2021 and his left ACL in 2024. As a result, he missed 40-plus games in 2021, 2022, 2024, and 2025.
However, Acuna is now healthy and is coming off a championship World Baseball Classic (WBC) run with Team Venezuela. The 6-foot, 205-pounder logged a .962 OPS over seven games in the tournament.
If the Braves get the WBC version of Acuna moving forward, the rest of the NL could be in trouble.
Early Success Shows Braves' Depth
Q&A
What is Ronald Acuna Jr.'s current batting average in 2023?
Ronald Acuna Jr. is hitting .248 with a .736 OPS over 33 games in 2023.
Who are the top performers for the Atlanta Braves this season?
Michael Harris II leads the Braves with a .324 batting average, while Ozzie Albies is hitting .320 and has 41 hits.
What is the Atlanta Braves' current record in the NL?
The Atlanta Braves have a record of 23-10, making them the best in the National League.
