The Atlanta Braves had their three-game winning streak come to an end Wednesday night in a loss to the Cincinnati Reds, but outfielder Alex Verdugo remains optimistic about the team’s potential. Filling in for Jarred Kelenic, Verdugo expressed confidence in Brian Snitker’s squad as they inch closer to the .500 mark.
Now in his ninth MLB season, Verdugo has spent time with multiple clubs in recent years but continues to be a steady contributor wherever he lands. After reaching the World Series with the Yankees in 2024, Verdugo is now backing his new team. Speaking to The Athletic’s David O’Brien, he said, “I feel like we can beat anybody out there, right?” when asked about the Braves’ outlook in 2025.
Atlanta has started climbing back into contention in the NL East following a sluggish start. The offense, in particular, has started to heat up over the past week, looking more like the potent unit fans are used to seeing. Perhaps most encouraging: the team’s recent surge has come without star outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr., who remains sidelined on the injured list.
Verdugo’s belief in the Braves is encouraging, but the team still has plenty to prove. At their peak, Atlanta has the kind of talent that can stack up with any club in the league. They haven’t quite reached that level yet, but the fact they’re continuing to win games during this rough patch speaks volumes about their resilience and commitment.
Verdugo’s role may shift once Jarred Kelenic returns to the big-league roster, especially if he’s swinging a hot bat. Still, no matter where Verdugo slots into the depth chart, his experience and presence could be a key factor in the Braves’ success.
Right now, the NL East is shaping up as a tight race between the Mets and Phillies through the first 30 games. But Atlanta remains within striking distance. If they can keep building momentum, they’ll only become more dangerous as they push toward playoff contention.