Heading into 2024, the Atlanta Braves were again favorites to win the National League East. But with the rise of the Philadelphia Phillies as a powerhouse, it’s possible Atlanta will not win the division. It would be the first time since 2017.
There can be lots of blame for their offense not being up to par as usual as they continue to struggle to put together any production from a team that won 104 games a season ago. Losing All-Star Ronald Acuña Jr for the year with a torn ACL was a big hit in the Braves lineup, but even when he was healthy and in the Braves lineup, the outfielder was only slashing four home runs and just 15 runs batted in. Their offense was still not producing at a high level. With their latest loss, Atlanta did something they only accomplished a handful of times in 2023. Leaving many concerned.
Atlanta Braves Offensive Woes
The Braves Were Held To 1 Run In 10 Games
Once again, the Braves’ offense was non-existent. After dropping their series opener to the Nationals 2-1, the Braves once again were held to a single run. This is the tenth time this year that this has happened. Last year, this only happened twelve times.
The Braves have scored 1 run or fewer 10 times this year. They did so just 12 times all of last year.
— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) June 8, 2024
Despite sitting second in the division, they trail the Phillies by eight games. That number could continue to increase if they keep sputtering offensively.
Why Are The Braves Struggling On Offense?
Known for their offensive prowess over the last several seasons, the Braves are ranked 11th in the majors in team batting average and just 18th in runs scored. Yes, Marcell Ozuna leads the National League in RBI with 55 and 18 home runs, but the Braves’ offense has still been non-existent.
From Matt Olson batting under .240 on the season and Austin Riley only slugging three homers thus far, their lineup has not been playing to their capability. For a lineup with three players who hit over 40 home runs and five who hit over 30 home runs from a year ago, this start on offense is unprecedented.
Something has to change for the Braves on offense. One-run efforts aren’t good enough for a team with World Series aspirations. Acquiring someone at the trading deadline or possibly making a late free agent signing. The Braves could use a little magic that they had in 2021. Back then, they lost Acuna with the same knee injury and went on to win the World Series.
Main Photo Credits: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
