Final Spring Tune-Up: What to Expect from the Braves vs Tigers Showdown? 

As we gear up for the final stretch of Spring Training, the Atlanta Braves are making some intriguing moves that could set the tone for the upcoming season. With Reynaldo Lopez getting his last tune-up before the season kicks off and Bryce Elder stepping in after a change in plans, it raises some interesting questions about the team's pitching strategy.

What do you think about the decision to have Lopez start today? Is he the right choice to lead the rotation into the regular season, or should the Braves have gone with a different option?

Additionally, with Drake Baldwin and Jarred Kelenic being the only projected Opening Day lineup players in today's game, it seems like the Braves are testing their depth. How do you feel about the depth of the Braves' roster heading into the season? Are there any under-the-radar players you think could surprise us this year?

And let's not forget about Chadwick Tromp as the designated hitter—how often do you think we'll see him in that role during the season? Could this be a sign of a shift in how the Braves approach their lineup?

As we discuss these developments, let's also make some bold predictions. How many games do you think the Braves will win in Southern California? Will they come out strong, or will they struggle against the competition?

Share your thoughts, predictions, and any insights you have about the Braves as we head into what promises to be an exciting season!

Sean Murphy’s return is a huge deal for the Braves. Even though he only missed about 15 games, his impact goes way beyond the box score. He’s one of the best defensive catchers in the league and has a real command of the pitching staff. I do think there’ll be a bit of an adjustment period — coming back from a broken rib isn’t easy, especially for a catcher constantly in motion. But if he gets anywhere near his 2023 All-Star form, it could seriously elevate the team, especially with how deep the Braves already are.

Reynaldo López, though… that one’s tricky. The move to stretch him back into a starter role was always a bit of a gamble, and his low strikeout numbers this spring don’t exactly build confidence. It could be a case of tinkering with mechanics or holding back velocity early, but it’s fair to be concerned. If he struggles early in the season, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Bryce Elder or AJ Smith-Shawver slide into that spot.

Nathan Wiles seems more like a depth piece than a difference-maker right now, but you never know. The Braves have a good track record of developing guys who weren’t high-profile names. If he can eat innings and give the bullpen a breather when needed, he’s worth the pickup.

As for the SoCal stretch, I’m cautiously optimistic. The Dodgers and Padres are always tough outs, but if the Braves can come out of that road trip with even a 3-3 record, I’d call that a win. Their offense is stacked enough to keep them in every game — especially if guys like Austin Riley and Matt Olson heat up early.

Bold prediction? If Murphy returns at full strength and one of the young arms steps up, the Braves will not only win the NL East again but make a deep postseason run — maybe even to the World Series.

What about you — who do you think is the X-factor for Atlanta this season?