3 bold player predictions as the Atlanta Braves begin their 2022 postseason run

As the Atlanta Braves prepare to open their postseason play against the Philadelphia Phillies in the NLDS, it’s time for some predictions

This season, the Atlanta Braves went 11-8 against their National League East rivals from Philadelphia. The games were close overall, however, as Atlanta outscored the Phillies by just three total runs (88-85) in the 19 games.

So what lies ahead for Atlanta against the Phillies and beyond? Let’s take a look into the crystal ball.

Three bold player postseason predictions for the Atlanta Braves

3. Spencer Strider will shine

This bold prediction is two-fold. First, by saying Strider will have an impact in the postseason, it’s implying that Strider will actually be back from an oblique injury that sidelined him at the end of the season. However, all signs are pointing toward the 23-year-old right-hander being back in the rotation, quite possibly in time for the NLDS matchup against Philadelphia.

If Strider is able to pitch against Philadelphia, that’s a bad sign for the Phillies. This season, Strider was 4-0 with a 1.27 ERA against Philly, allowing just seven hits in 21.1 innings of work. Philadelphia’s combined slash line against him was a paltry .097/.177/.194 in 2022.

Strider returning to the rotation will be a boost for Atlanta throughout its postseason run as he also fared well in his only outing of the season against the top-seeded Los Angeles Dodgers, who could be waiting for the Braves in the NLCS. On June 26 in Atlanta, Strider threw six shutout innings, scattering five hits while striking out seven and not issuing a walk. However, the Dodgers came back to post a 5-3 win, rallying against the Braves bullpen … which brings us to our next bold prediction.