Atlanta Braves Looking for Rebound Season in 2009

Following their worst season since Bobby Cox became the manager in 1990, all signs point to the Atlanta Braves returning to their typical spot near the top of the National League East in 2009. Rather than signing high profile free agents, the Braves have made strategic additions designed to solidify the weaknesses exposed during their 72-90 campaign of a year ago. The Braves 2009 pitching staff will never be confused with their dominant rotations of the mid-1990s, but they have upgraded from a year ago. Though longtime Braves’ faithful will miss the presence of John Smoltz, the reality is that the move by Smoltz to Boston was probably the best thing for both sides. The Braves needed a reliable starter capable of giving the team 200 innings of service, while Smoltz is better off in a situation where he can rehab his surgically repaired shoulder without the pressure of being ready to contribute in April. Ironically, the Braves have turned to a former Red Sox hurler, Derek Lowe, to...