Fansided

One reason each MLB team can win the World Series in 2017

By Joshua Sadlock

Nov 4, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; (from left to right) Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo and center fielder Dexter Fowler and third baseman Kris Bryant and right fielder Jason Heyward celebrate during their World Series parade outside of Wrigley Field on Addison Street. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 4, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; (from left to right) Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo and center fielder Dexter Fowler and third baseman Kris Bryant and right fielder Jason Heyward celebrate during their World Series parade outside of Wrigley Field on Addison Street. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 22, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; Atlanta Braves left fielder Matt Kemp (27) rounds first after hitting a two run home run in the third inning off of Miami Marlins starting pitcher Jose Urena (not pictured) at Marlins Park. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 22, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; Atlanta Braves left fielder Matt Kemp (27) rounds first after hitting a two run home run in the third inning off of Miami Marlins starting pitcher Jose Urena (not pictured) at Marlins Park. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /

Atlanta Braves: Party like it’s 2010

As the Braves get set to move into their new ballpark, they will certainly roll out an interesting roster. Still in the middle of a long rebuild, the Braves have added a handful of veteran players who may just be a little bit past their prime — Matt Kemp, Brandon Phillips, Bartolo Colon, R.A. Dickey. In some ways, it makes sense because the team’s top prospects are not quite ready for the big leagues.

It’s probably not a great idea to rush out and put money on the Braves to win the World Series, but if all of their veterans come together, this team could surprise. Down the stretch last year, Atlanta was a much more competitive team. Kemp looked energized after leaving San Diego. Bartolo Colon is the ageless wonder, and Dickey should fare much better in an outdoor park in the National League after struggling in the dome in Toronto. Adding Brandon Phillips into the mix at second base will give the Braves a slick double-play combo with Dansby Swanson.

There are still plenty of questions about the long-term future of the rebuild in Atlanta, which has focused almost entirely on starting pitching up to this point. For now though, there is still reason to be excited about the Braves as they get ready to open their new stadium. This eclectic roster of former All-Stars and youngsters just might shock the baseball world in 2017.

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