The Atlanta Braves head into the 2025 season with tempered expectations, largely due to past injuries, yet they remain a formidable contender. Analysts at MLB.com have ranked them as second in World Series favorites, just behind the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Braves are poised for a healthier season compared to 2023, where they finished 89-73 despite significant injuries to star players like Ronald Acuña Jr. and Spencer Strider. Their lineup, when fully fit, is considered one of the strongest in baseball.

Key injuries last season were due to freak incidents such as Austin Riley's broken hand and Ozzie Albies' wrist injury, which hampered their playoff performance. The Braves' pitching staff has also been bolstered and is expected to outperform the 2023 squad that achieved 104 wins. With the National League East being highly competitive, the Braves will need to capitalize on their health to maintain their status as serious championship contenders.

As the MLB season approaches, Cy Young Award betting odds are making headlines. In the American League, Garrett Crochet stands out with impressive strikeout rates, though health is a concern. Framber Valdez of the Astros offers durability and consistency, making him a strong contender at +1700. Joe Ryan and Bailey Ober of the Twins are intriguing longshots with potential, especially if they can stay healthy.

In the National League, Paul Skenes is the favorite at +300, but injury risks loom. Tyler Glasnow could deliver value at +1700 if he remains healthy, while Spencer Strider's return from surgery makes him a wildcard. Spencer Schwellenbach offers great odds at +4000 and could break out with the Braves' support. These bets highlight the unpredictability of the upcoming season.

The Atlanta Braves are gearing up for the 2025 MLB season with optimism surrounding the return of superstar Ronald Acuña Jr., who missed significant time last year due to a torn ACL. Acuña addressed the media, showcasing his recovery and positive mindset ahead of spring training. He acknowledged that while he won't play in Grapefruit League games initially, he is focused on feeling great and being ready to contribute when the time comes.

Braves president Alex Anthopolous clarified that Acuña, along with ace pitcher Spencer Strider, will not be on the Opening Day roster. The team is currently adjusting to offseason changes, notably the departures of key players like Max Fried and Charlie Morton, amidst a growing sense of fan impatience. Anthopolous emphasized that the franchise is strategically managing player health and competitive balance.

Baseball's spring training is here, and with it come various pivotal questions for the 2025 fantasy season. Will Shohei Ohtani's recent surgeries impact his incredible performance? While his elbow issue is less concerning, a torn labrum could affect his power and speed. Ronald Acuña and Spencer Strider are also under the microscope as both return from serious injuries. Their performance could define the Braves' season and your fantasy draft choices.

Newcomers like Lawrence Butler and Wyatt Langford have fans buzzing—can they sustain their impressive stats from last season? Meanwhile, veterans like Chris Sale and Jacob deGrom raise concerns about durability and workload. The uncertainty surrounding them adds a layer of complexity to draft strategies. Meanwhile, the ever-changing dynamics of ballparks and equipment could shift player values significantly. Welcome back to baseball; it's going to be a fascinating ride.