Braves Face Doubts in ESPN’s Early 2026 Power Rankings
The Atlanta Braves are facing a shift in expectations as they head into the offseason, with ESPN’s recently released power rankings placing them in the middle of the pack at 14th. This ranking is an improvement from their 21st position at the conclusion of the regular season, but it still highlights the concerns surrounding the team’s offensive struggles.
Offensive Concerns Linger
While there’s optimism about the starting rotation potentially improving in 2026—largely due to anticipated health returns—the offense remains a significant worry. Last season, the Braves’ batting lineup struggled to maintain consistency, which has raised red flags heading into the new year. Key players failed to deliver the expected offensive production, leaving the team with pressing questions about their ability to compete at a high level.
Adding to the uncertainty is the potential departure of designated hitter Marcell Ozuna and closer Raisel Iglesias, both of whom are set to hit free agency. Ozuna’s performance last season was underwhelming, often seen as more of a liability than an asset at the plate. His absence could leave a considerable void in the lineup, particularly if the Braves are unable to replace his production effectively.
Impact of Recent Changes
These power rankings were released just a day after the conclusion of the World Series, before significant changes like Ha-Seong Kim’s decision to opt out and the announcement of Walt Weiss as the new manager. The implications of these moves on the Braves’ standing remain to be seen, but they add another layer of complexity to an already challenging offseason.
Despite these challenges, the power ranking does not completely dismiss the Braves’ potential. There is an acknowledgment that some of their struggles were due to misfortune, particularly on the pitching side. A healthier rotation could have made a pivotal difference, possibly allowing the Braves to secure a postseason berth given that only 83 wins were required for playoff entry last season.
Shifting Expectations
The Braves’ current ranking reflects a broader narrative about the team’s trajectory. During their successful division-winning seasons, they consistently ranked higher, but with their recent decline, expectations have adjusted accordingly. This mid-pack ranking suggests that while the Braves are not yet contenders in the eyes of analysts, they still possess the foundation to improve.
Ultimately, these early rankings serve as a reminder of the work that lies ahead for the Braves. They must confront their offensive inconsistencies and navigate a challenging offseason to regain their standing as a competitive force in Major League Baseball. The upcoming months will be crucial for reshaping their lineup and addressing the issues that have led to this dip in expectations.
