Braves 2025: Are We Ready to Believe the Hype? 

As we look ahead to the 2025 season, the Atlanta Braves are generating a lot of buzz among fans and analysts alike. With minimal changes during the offseason, the question on everyone's mind is: where will the Braves end up in 2025?

This is a pivotal moment for the team, and it raises some intriguing points for discussion. Are the Braves poised for a deep playoff run, or are they setting themselves up for disappointment? Given their current roster and the competition they face, what are your bold predictions for their performance?

Consider the implications of their bullpen strategy and the potential impact of prospects like Hurston Waldrep. How do you think these factors will play into their success? Will the Braves' decision to stick with their current lineup pay off, or should they have made more aggressive moves in the offseason?

Let’s also talk about the fan perspective. How confident are you in the Braves' chances? What are your expectations for the team, and how do you think they will fare against their rivals in the National League?

Share your thoughts, predictions, and any insights you have about the Braves' future. This is your chance to weigh in and let’s see who can make the most accurate call as we revisit these discussions at the end of the season!

Are the Braves Poised for a Deep Run?
Absolutely. They return one of the most complete lineups in the league, and their biggest offseason move was, arguably, not making a move. That’s a testament to how much confidence they have in their core: Ronald Acuña Jr., Matt Olson, Austin Riley, Ozzie Albies, and Michael Harris II form a powerhouse nucleus.

But playoff success isn’t just about stars—it’s about timing, depth, and matchups. The key will be:

Keeping Acuña healthy (obviously),

Getting bounce-back years from pitchers like Ian Anderson,

And getting meaningful contributions from younger arms like Hurston Waldrep, who could play the Spencer Strider 2022 role.

Bullpen Strategy: Quantity over Splash
The Braves' choice to add a mix of veterans and AAAA arms to the bullpen instead of chasing a big-ticket closer looks like a calculated gamble. Their top-6 projected bullpen ranking isn’t hype—it’s depth and versatility.

If Aaron Bummer regains form and Dylan Lee takes a step forward, this pen could be scary. Watch for a midseason trade if they sense a need for a lights-out 9th-inning guy.

Prospects to Watch
Hurston Waldrep – He’s the guy. If he can refine his command, he’s a future frontline starter. Expect him to debut by midseason.

AJ Smith-Shawver – Don’t sleep on him either. He’s MLB-ready stuff-wise, and could force his way into the mix sooner than expected.

Bold Predictions
Michael Harris II finishes top-5 in NL MVP voting. He’s ready for a leap if he stays healthy and improves his plate discipline.

Braves win 98 games and clinch the NL East – again.

The Braves acquire a high-leverage reliever or utility infielder by the trade deadline (especially if shortstop defense becomes a concern).

Waldrep wins 8+ games after debuting in June.

Marcell Ozuna hits 35+ homers. Yes, that Ozuna.

Fan Confidence and NL Rivals
Most Braves fans are cautiously optimistic—and rightfully so. The team has the pieces; it’s just about execution and staying healthy. But don’t overlook the Phillies and Dodgers—those are the biggest playoff roadblocks. The Cubs and D-backs could also surprise, especially in a short series.

Final Call: Braves 2025
Record: 98–64

NL East Champs

NLCS appearance (at minimum)

World Series appearance if the bullpen stays healthy and Acuña returns to MVP form.