As the 2024 MLB season approached, the Atlanta Braves were strong contenders for the World Series. However, injuries and underperformances have put them in a precarious position, struggling to stay competitive as the season progresses toward October.
At the trade deadline, GM Alex Anthopoulos made a significant move by bringing Jorge Soler back to Atlanta. This initially seemed promising, as the Braves appeared to regain momentum for a brief period. However, Tuesday night’s loss to the Milwaukee Brewers was a stark reminder of the challenges they face.
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### Braves’ Struggles Across the Board
The Braves have been hit hard by injuries, particularly affecting their all-star starting pitchers Max Fried and Reynaldo Lopez. While Fried recently returned from the injured list, Lopez was placed on it, creating a void in the rotation.
Bryce Elder, who has fluctuated between the major and minor leagues, filled in for Lopez. Despite a strong performance against the Brewers in his previous start, Elder struggled on Tuesday night at Truist Park. He was unable to finish the fourth inning, giving up seven earned runs on eight hits over 3.2 innings. Relievers Jesse Chavez and Aaron Bummer also struggled, allowing two and one earned run respectively, resulting in a total of ten earned runs for the Braves.
Offensively, the Braves have also hit a slump. The reintroduction of Jorge Soler to the lineup was intended to spark the offense, but the team has not scored a run in their last 19 innings.
### Missed Opportunities in the NL East
With the Phillies also struggling and the Braves facing a relatively easier schedule, the recent weeks should have been an ideal time for Atlanta to gain ground in the NL East. Despite some progress, the Braves remain 6.5 games behind the division leaders as of Wednesday. Currently holding the last Wild Card spot, they are closely trailed by the New York Mets. The Braves are in a “now or never” situation as the season heads toward its critical final stretch.