August 25, 2025

Since their thrilling World Series win in 2021, the Atlanta Braves have been struggling to crack the playoff code again. This season feels especially tough, with the Braves on track to miss the postseason for the first time since 2017. Ouch! But what's behind this sharp dip? The answer is clear: injuries. The Braves' lineup took a big hit with power-hitting third baseman Austin Riley out for the year. The pitching staff also bled with 2024 National League Cy Young Award winner Chris Sale sidelined for two months. To make things worse, starting pitchers Reynaldo Lopez and Spencer Schwellenbach likely won’t pitch again this season. However, there is some good news shining through the clouds. Right-hander Spencer Strider, set to start the opener against Miami, is the team's comeback kid. After an elbow surgery that nearly ended his 2024 season, he has been steadily making starts since May 20. Yet, his current stats — a 5-11 record with a 5.24 ERA — show he’s not quite the All-Star he was in 2023, when he dominated with 20 wins and led the majors in strikeouts. The Braves also have their eyes on center fielder Michael Harris II, who looks like a man on fire in the second half. After a slow start with just a .210 average and .551 OPS in 93 games, Harris turned things around dramatically. In his last 34 games, he smacked a stellar .360 average and a shining 1.049 OPS. On his secret to success, Harris said, "I took the risk, and it's paying off." On the other side of the diamond, Miami Marlins will send right-hander Edward Cabrera to the mound. Cabrera had an impressive start with an ERA under 2.90 for three months but has cooled off a bit in August. At bat, rookie sensation Javier Sanoja has been punching way above his weight. The little powerhouse, only 5-foot-7 and 150 pounds, blew up in August with four homers and an .876 OPS in just 20 games. "I'm always trying to lift everyone up," Sanoja shared, showing his upbeat clubhouse spirit. Both teams have had rough home series just before this trip. The Braves dropped their first two games to the Mets but snagged a win on Sunday. Miami also lost two but rallied against the Blue Jays on Sunday. With a young lineup packed with rookies like Jakob Marsee, who dazzled with a three-run triple and a powerful double recently, the Marlins are full of surprises. Marsee said, "I'm just trying to keep things simple. I trust my work, trust my preparation and trust God." As the Braves and Marlins gear up for this thrilling 10-game road trip, fans everywhere will be watching closely. Will the Braves fight off their injury woes and reignite their playoff dreams? Stay tuned!

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Tags: Atlanta braves, Miami marlins, Injuries, Baseball, Mlb playoffs, Spencer strider,