In our first team preview of the NL East, Kevin McAlpin, Atlanta Braves Radio Network Reporter for Sports Radio 680 The Fan (@KevinMcAlpin) talks to me about this year’s Atlanta Braves team.
Jovan Alford: Who in Braves Spring Training has stood out the most?
Kevin McAlpin: I think for me, pitcher Mike Minor has been the most impressive this spring. He didn’t allow a run over his first four starts and was pretty solid. Minor will be a very big piece of the rotation with Tim Hudson out until late April/early May. A close second has been the play of Andrelton Simmons at shortstop. Tyler Pastornicky will be the starting SS, but the range and some of the defensive plays Simmons turned this spring were incredible!
Jovan Alford: What is the predicted starting rotation for the Braves for this upcoming season?
Kevin McAlpin: For the Month of April it will go Tommy Hanson, Jair Jurrjens, Mike Minor, Brandon Beachy and Randall Delgado. When Hudson returns Delgado will be bumped and it will be Hudson, Hanson, JJ, Minor and Beachy.
Jovan Alford: What was the feeling around the team when Chipper Jones said he was retiring at the end of this season?
Kevin McAlpin: Inspired. Chipper told his teammates a few days before he announced it at his press conf. But a major reason he’s stuck around this long was because of how close he was with the guys in the locker room. Many of the guys feel like they owe it to chipper to send him off in style.
Jovan Alford: Do you see closer Craig Kimbrel having another outstanding season or do you see teams figuring him out?
Kevin McAlpin: Well, if his spring is any indication, I see another big year from Craig. His FB this spring has been 96/97 and he looks like the Kimbrel we saw last season. I see him being a dominating, lights out guy for many years to come!
Jovan Alford: Finally, what are your predictions for the Braves this upcoming season? (Record wise and if they make the playoffs)
Kevin McAlpin: I think the Braves are certainly a contender. It all comes down to their health. If they can stay healthy…if Heyward can have a season like his rookie year…if the starters can stay healthy…if Uggla gets off to a fast start…and if Freeman can match or best last season…this can be a dangerous team! I think the NL East will be one hell of a race…and given the injuries in Philly…I think the braves have a realistic shot at the division!
I would again like to thank Kevin McAlpin for taking some time out discussing the Atlanta Braves and contributing to www.totalsportslive.com.
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