Atlanta Braves legend Chipper Jones hails clubs's three potential MVPs as shining offense guides Braves to top of NL East
The Atlanta Braves have taken any early advantage in one of baseball's toughest divisions. The Braves have powered their way to the top of the National League East and hold a comfortable three-game lead over their rivals.
Atlanta's 6-1 record is the best in the NL. They hold the second-best record in the majors, behind only the Tampa Bay Rays. The club's early success has been driven by a potent offense and some of their star players stepping up.
Legendary Atlanta Braves third baseman Chipper Jones was recently asked about the team's lineup and what makes this offense tick:
"You’ve got three legitimate MVP candidates right there at the top. Not many teams can get close to that."
Per a recent article in The Athletic, Jones, who is working with the club as a hitting consultant, highlighted the top of the order as key for the organization. The three players he focused on were Ronaldo Acuna Jr., Matt Olson and Austin Riley.
How good can this Brave offense be in 2023?
@JeffFrancoeur weighs in.
(Spoiler Alert: Very Good) https://t.co/445GS849no
"How good can this Brave offense be in 2023? @JeffFrancoeur weighs in. (Spoiler Alert: Very Good)" - Bally Sports South
Led by a strong top of the order, the Braves are averaging 5.57 runs per game. In the National League, only the Los Angeles Dodgers have scored more runs (43). The club has already scored more runs than the second- and third-placed Miami Marlins and New York Mets combined.
The Atlanta Braves will hope their strong offense is enough to secure a second WS title in three seasons
Matt Olson, who was brought in to replace fan favorite Freddie Freeman, has been the standout player this season. He is slashing .333/.394/.767 and has an impressive 1.161 OPS. The 2021 All-Star has already recorded three home runs, nine RBIs and seven runs.
"Glad I'm on this side and not having to face this lineup. They're super scary ... Making us as pitchers feel at ease that this team is going to go up, and they're going to score runs."
--AJ Minter on Braves offense starting strong https://t.co/Xx93Csl8Oy
"'Glad I'm on this side and not having to face this lineup. They're super scary ... Making us as pitchers feel at ease that this team is going to go up, and they're going to score runs.'-- AJ Minter on Braves offense starting strong" - Justin Felder
Ronald Acuna Jr. has also hit the ground running. He currently has a .355 batting average and an impressive 1.042 OPS.
If Acuna, Olson and Riley can maintain this form, it is hard to see anyone catching the Atlanta Braves. The three players have already combined for seven home runs, 19 RBIs, 21 hits and 19 runs.