Dansby Swanson stays red hot with homer against Rays (video)

Dansby Swanson continued his surge to start the season

If Dansby is hitting for power, the Braves lineup may not miss a beat despite the absence of Nick Markakis. Atlanta was in search of a proper replacement for their veteran outfielder, hence the decision to sign Yasiel Puig (a move which fell through, we might add). If the Braves are to keep up with the World Series champion Washington Nationals in a crowded NL East, they’ll need more from uncommon contributors like Swanson, who has the potential to go white hot from the dish.

So far, so good. Just one game removed from a home run and five RBI performance, Swanson aimed to add to the Braves winning ways with another dinger.

If Swanson has a breakout season in Atlanta, watch out

This Braves team has several fun personalities, including Swanson, Austin Riley, Ozzie Albies and Ronald Acuña. When Freddie Freeman is finally firing on all cylinders, the National League will be on notice.

“It’s a fun lineup and team to be a part of,” Swanson said after Sunday’s 14-1 win over the New York Mets. “It’s deep, and it’s consistent.”

Assuming the Braves pitching staff can keep up with their batting order, the sky is the limit in the ATL. Thus far, that’s come with a mixed bag, as Atlanta is lacking significant rotational depth behind Mike Foltynewicz, Mike Soroka and Max Fried.

Only time will tell.