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MLB Playoffs preview: Reds and Braves battle to advance to NLDS

By Scott Boyken

CINCINNATI, OH - APRIL 25: Eugenio Suarez #7 of the Cincinnati Reds hits a two-run double in the fifth inning against the Atlanta Braves. (Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images)
CINCINNATI, OH - APRIL 25: Eugenio Suarez #7 of the Cincinnati Reds hits a two-run double in the fifth inning against the Atlanta Braves. (Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images) /
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The Atlanta Braves celebrate after winning 15-2 during the ninth inning.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 18: The Atlanta Braves celebrate after winning 15-2 during the ninth inning. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images) /

The Braves are no strangers to October baseball

Celebrating their third consecutive National League East Division crown, the Braves have some demons to exorcise. Last year’s season-ending playoff defeat was as miserable as a franchise can experience. In the decisive Game 5 at home, the Braves came to bat in the bottom of the first inning trailing by 10 runs in a completely deflating 13-1 drubbing courtesy of the St. Louis Cardinals.

The Braves enter the MLB Playoffs as one of the best hitting teams in the National League. Their .349 OPB and .483 slugging marks lead the NL while their .262 batting average and 103 homers are both good enough for second in the senior circuit. In addition, they are a patient bunch. The Braves and Reds tied for the league lead with 239 free passes.

Atlanta’s lineup features a quartet of sluggers who have gone deep at least 13 times this year. Newcomer Marcell Ozuna led the way with 18 round-trippers, while former Reds outfielder Adam Duvall followed close behind with 16 homers. Ronald Acuna Jr. and first baseman Freddie Freeman contributed 14 and 13 blasts respectively as well.

Where the Braves are vulnerable is in their starting rotation. Atlanta starters’ 5.51 ERA was the worst in the National League. Additionally, their 1.45 WHIP and 224 strikeouts are each second from the NL cellar. The key for the Reds will be jumping on top early because once the Braves turn the game over to their bullpen, it’s lights out.

Manager Brian Snitker’s relief corps is one of the best in baseball. Their 282 strikeouts and 3.50 ERA both ranked second among NL bullpens. Veteran closer Mark Melancon recorded 11 saves in 13 opportunities, however, the Braves may be without their most lethal bullpen weapon heading into the MLB Playoffs.

During Sunday’s season finale, right-handed setup man Chris Martin left the game with a potential groin injury. Martin has been completely abusing hitters all season long. Covering 18 innings, he’s allowed just two runs on eight hits while walking only three and fanning 20 opposing hitters. At this point, his availability for the series is uncertain.

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