ATLANTA — Still searching for their first three-winning streak and having spent all of one day above .500 — that was three days into the season — few things have to go plan for the defending champion Braves.
The offense ranks 19th in fWAR, despite seven everyday players with either All-Star or Silver Slugger winner on their resumes; and the starting rotation is 15th in fWAR, largely due to the fifth spot — an unchecked box on the offseason shopping list — that has accumulated an 8.07 ERA.
Atlanta’s bullpen, though, has been the force it was expected to be, with circumstances making its standing in the league even more impressive.