ATLANTA — As was customary during the '90s and early-aughts, the Braves have been one of the premier models of consistency in baseball this season. The team leaving Philadelphia Sunday night — one that had just suffered a series sweep for only the third time this season (Tigers, Padres, Phillies) — may not have resembled that model, not after being held to just 2-for-25 hitting at the plate a few hours earlier, but it's still the same group.
Per manager Fredi Gonzalez's stated goal, the Braves have done an admirable job of winning series this season — even if the team takes Game One. Through 45 series played, Atlanta has won outright 24 times this season. Add in nine more splits, and the Braves have only lost 12 series all season. That's the the lesser-appreciated way of compiling the National League's best record.
In fact, the Braves have swept an opponent just as many times (12) as they have lost a series this season.
So even though the Philadelphia series outlined some problems the Braves need to address, there is little need to panic as the schedule is not due for a swing toward a higher degree of difficulty and the team (should) continue to get healthier as time passes. So, with that in mind, the Chopcast team — Zach Dillard, Cory McCartney and Jay Clemons — are ins studio to discuss the leadoff spot, the No. 1 overall seed and more. Here are the highlights:
-- If Jordan Schafer and Jason Heyward are not available, how should the Braves address the leadoff spot? After watching B.J. Upton struggle in the No. 1 spot in Philadelphia, how long should Gonzalez stick with him there?
-- How pivotal of a month is this for B.J. Upton?
-- What are some of the positives for the Braves coming off the sweep? (Hint: Chris Johnson reference)
-- As young catching prospect Christian Bethancourt gets called up, what are the benefits of carrying four catches? What can he learn from a September atmosphere and being around veterans day to day?
-- Why is there a "Rudy" reference on a baseball podcast? (An answer may or may not be given.)
