The article explores the Atlanta Braves' rough start to the season amidst several injuries and suspensions. While their performance is concerning, it's emphasized that the season is long, and the return of key players like Ronald Acuña and Spencer Strider could reverse their fortunes. Comparisons are made to the previous year's Astros, who overcame a slow start to succeed. The Braves' lineup depth and talent are noted as potential saving factors, despite early difficulties against strong competitors in the National League.
Atlanta has started the season against arguably the two best teams in the National League. They're without their best player, one of the league's best pitchers, and their starting catcher. Even if you don't expect much out of Sean Murphy at this point, getting Acuña and Strider back within the next few weeks is massive.
Last year's Astros dropped five of their first six games and seven of nine. They bottomed out at 12 games below .500 in the second week of May; they ended up winning the AL West by 3.5 games. Most teams that dig themselves that big a hole will not make the playoffs, of course, but they also usually don't have as much talent as the Braves do.
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