The Atlanta Braves entered the 2023 MLB playoffs ready to make a run to the World Series after winning 102 regular season games, winning their 6th straight NL East division crown and arguably having one of the most historic offensive seasons any major league team has ever put together.
The Braves led all of major league baseball in hits (1543), runs scored (943), home runs (307). However, even with all those statistics on his side, Braves manager Brian Snitker shocked most everyone when he changed the lineup around before Game 1 of the NLDS verse Philadelphia.
“I’m still scratching my head asking why?” asked former Atlanta area sportscaster turned Philadelphia sports reporter Gil Tyree when he joined the Sam & Greg Sunday morning show.
Ronald Acuña Jr was in his normal leadoff spot for the Braves in Game 1, but Austin Riley was moved up to second in the order where Ozzie Albies usually resides and provides great stability, and Albies was moved down into the cleanup spot in the lineup.
“Clearly he knew that the lefties (Phillies Bullpen) were coming”, emphasized Gil to Sam & Greg when rationalizing what manager Brian Snitker was thinking when decided to change to a right handed heavy batting order.
The Braves were only shutout in two regular season games this season, but were unable to muster any real offense against the Phillies in Game 1, recording only five hits and going 0-for-5 with runners in scoring position.
Max Fried will return from the IL and be on the hill for the Braves when Game 2 starts Monday evening, and for he will hoping that the Braves bats make a return just as well.