ZiPS Projections Bring Up Some SCARY Questions for Atlanta Braves Going Into 2026

Atlanta Braves face a turbulent future as ZiPS projections reveal major depth issues and a lineup in decline. Can Ronald Acuña Jr.’s superstar numbers and Matt Olson’s steady production offset the regression seen in key hitters like Austin Riley, Ozzie Albies, and Michael Harris II? Questions mount as the Braves search for a big bat and upgrades to support a roster with shrinking margins for error.Jake Mastroianni scrutinizes the Braves’ 2026 outlook, highlighting the team’s worrisome offensive trends, lack of prospect reinforcements, and uncertain pitching health—especially around Spencer Strider and the rotation’s innings limits. The discussion covers potential free agent targets, the challenge of spotty positional depth, and how the team’s cautious spending could impact postseason hopes. Will Atlanta find enough answers to avoid another disappointing finish, or is an even wider range of outcomes waiting in the year ahead?  Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!GametimeDownload the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.