The Atlanta Braves are on fire as they prepare to host the Cleveland Guardians in a highly anticipated weekend series. Coming off a sweep of the Miami Marlins, the Braves have won 9 of their last 10 games and are eager to continue their winning streak.
With the Guardians also holding a top spot in the MLB standings with an impressive 18-7 record, the series promises to be a challenging matchup for Atlanta.
However, the Braves are boosted by the return of All-Star second baseman Ozzie Albies from the Injured List, adding even more strength to their lineup.
3 things to watch for as Braves and Guardians battle it out
Matt Olson hopes to end his dry spell
Matt Olson, who led Major League Baseball in home runs and runs batted in last season, has experienced a slow start this year. Recently breaking his longest hitless streak, there’s hope for a turnaround in his fortunes. Despite still missing pitches he typically drives, Olson’s swing appears closer to igniting a hot streak.
Matt Olson broke a career-worst 7-game hitless streak with a 2-out liner to right, misplayed by Sánchez. Ruled a double, at least for now. Even if it's changed to a single, it ends his 0-for-26 skid.
Olson then scored on an Ozuna single to push the #Braves' lead to 3-1 in the 3rd— David O'Brien (@DOBrienATL) April 25, 2024
His seven-game hitless streak was snapped against the Marlins, signaling a potential resurgence at the plate. So far this season, he’s batting .216 with a .327 on-base percentage, .432 slugging percentage, and a .759 OPS, with a .271 BABIP. In comparison, last year, through 23 games, Olson boasted a .267 batting average, .377 on-base percentage, .556 slugging percentage, and a .933 OPS, with a .391 BABIP.
While his strikeouts are down from last season, his lower BABIP suggests he’s faced some bad luck. Expectations are for his luck to turn around soon, so his current struggles at the plate shouldn’t cause much concern.
Marcell Ozuna and Travis d’Arnaud leading the way offensively for Braves
The Braves lineup is often expected to be led by Ronald Acuna Jr., Ozzie Albies, Austin Riley, and Matt Olson, but the 2024 season has seen some unexpected leaders emerge.
Marcell Ozuna has taken the reins, leading the team in batting average, home runs, and RBI. His performance has been remarkable, leading MLB in slugging percentage and RBI, and ranking near the top in OPS and home runs.
Travis d’Arnaud has also made significant contributions, especially with his power hitting, particularly evident during a recent series against the Rangers.
His standout performance, including a three-homer game, has endeared him to Braves fans and added to his growing legend. With key players like d’Arnaud and Ozuna maintaining their hot streaks, and the top of the order finding their rhythm, the Braves offense could be poised for even greater success.
Bryce Elder to show his season debut for the Braves wasn’t a fluke
Since losing Spencer Strider to a season-ending injury, the Braves have been grappling with filling the gap in their starting rotation. While Fried, Sale, Morton, and Lopez have performed well, the fifth rotation spot has remained uncertain due to mixed results from Darius Vines and Allan Winans.
Bryce Elder, an All-Star last season, showcased his talent in his 2024 season debut against the Marlins. He pitched 6.2 scoreless innings, demonstrating impeccable control with no walks and allowed eight hits. Elder’s success hinges on throwing strikes and relying on his defense to make plays.
His impressive outing against Miami is hoped to boost his confidence for his next start and establish his position in the starting rotation permanently.
However, facing the Guardians presents a tougher challenge, given their formidable offense, having scored 128 runs this season, just nine less than the Braves. The upcoming series promises an exciting matchup between two top teams and a fitting conclusion to an eventful homestand.