Atlanta Braves’ 2026 Season Awards: Is Martin Perez the Real MVP?
Locked On Braves - Daily Podcast On The Atlanta BravesShow Notes
Jake Mastroianni hands out end-of-season awards, spotlighting Michael Harris for his postseason dominance, Chris Sale’s late-career brilliance, and Didier Fuentes’ breakout as Rookie of the Year. The episode explores Matt Olson’s defensive excellence, Ray Kerr’s remarkable comeback, and Dylan Dodd’s critical bullpen role. Discussion heats up as Jake Mastroianni questions whether the Braves would have made the playoffs without Martin Pérez, who stabilized a shaky rotation. Other key topics include AA’s latest comments on Jurickson Profar’s future, pitching staff uncertainties, and the potential return of familiar faces. Can Atlanta retool for another deep run, or will offseason decisions define their destiny?
More from Locked On Braves - Daily Podcast On The Atlanta Braves
Atlanta Braves strike gold with the Chris Sale trade—can the ace keep defying Father Time? Matt Olson’s rollercoaster season raises questions about his late-year slump and postseason struggles.
Atlanta Braves face tough questions as Ozzie Albies’ production plummets following his All-Star-caliber start. Could 2027 mark the final season for the Braves’ longtime second baseman? Jake Mastroianni examines Albies’ sharp decline at the plate, dissecting his streaky offensive numbers, defensive improvements, and leadership value. Key stats, such as Albies’ .237 average and 22 home runs, are weighed against his alarming late-season slump and dwindling on-base percentage.
Atlanta Braves prospects ignite hope for the next generation at Truist Park. Could John Gil and Tate Southisene be the dynamic duo to watch in the coming seasons? With Gil’s explosive finish at Double-A—boasting .315 batting and 60 stolen bases—and Southisene’s advanced plate discipline in the Arizona Fall League, the Braves' farm system is buzzing with potential.
Atlanta Braves’ postseasons could look very different if just one franchise great had stayed. Which trade or non-signing hurt Atlanta the most? Jake Mastroianni breaks down why losing Dansby Swanson has been the biggest blow, citing the Braves’ league-worst shortstop production since Swanson joined the Chicago Cubs. He weighs the effects of letting Freddie Freeman and Max Fried walk, and revisits the controversial William Contreras trade, revealing how these moves still shape Atlanta’s roster and playoff hopes.
Atlanta Braves fans question if Alex Anthopoulos should remain secure as GM after another offseason passes without a blockbuster move. With the Braves’ front office focused on maintaining a winning formula, frustration simmers over whether the team is doing enough to push beyond playoff consistency and return to World Series contention.