Chalk Talk: Atlanta Braves 2010 Preview

In this installment of Chalk Talk we will take a look at the 2010 Atlanta Braves. The Atlanta Braves had made 14 straight playoff appearances until last year where they fell a little short. This year will be Bobby Cox last year as manager of the Braves as he is retiring. The Braves are looking to bounce back and it starts with there offense. The Braves need a healthy Troy Glaus and adding Melky Cabrera should help them as well. Chipper Jones is still a good player who brings it every day. The offense will score runs, but must stay healthy all season long. Losing anyone in this lineup can really hurt the Braves.

Projected lineup

1. CF Nate McLouth
2. 2B Martin Prado
3. 3B Chipper Jones
4. 1B Troy Glaus
5. C Brian McCann
6. SS Yunel Escobar
7. LF Matt Diaz
8. RF Melky Cabrera

Pitching is something the Atlanta braves always seemed to have plenty of through the years. The Braves have one of the better pitching staffs and need all to perform at a high level this coming year. Adding Billy Wagner in the bullpen should help them as well. If Derek Lowe can bounce back this staff should keep the Braves in contention all season long.

1. RHP Tim Hudson
2. RHP Derek Lowe
3. RHP Jair Jurrjens
4. RHP Tommy Hanson
5. RHP Kenshin Kawakami

Projected closer

LHP Billy Wagner: 26 K's in 15 2/3 IP after return.