The Atlanta Braves will certainly have a legitimate opportunity to get back on track in 2026 following a challenging 2025 season that saw them miss the playoffs. Bradford Doolittle of ESPN recently published an article about the top “breakout” teams for the upcoming campaign, and the Braves are atop the list.

Five teams were mentioned as potential breakout ball clubs for the 2026 season. With the Braves leading the way, though, Atlanta could end up upsetting the expectations many have placed on the team.

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First off, and this goes without saying, but staying healthy will be of the utmost importance. A team can have all of the talent in the world and it will not matter if injuries prove to be too much of a problem.

With that out of the way, let’s take a look at this Braves roster.

Ronald Acuna Jr. is set to lead a talented group of position players. Matt Olson, Austin Riley and Ozzie Albies are some of the best players at their respective positions when they are playing up to their full potential. Michael Harris II has displayed signs of being a star in the past, while Drake Baldwin is looking to establish himself as a reliable catcher in the big leagues.

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Atlanta’s offense could be quite good. The Ha-Seong Kim injury is far from ideal — and the Braves may want to bring in another shortstop — but the lineup could still make noise in 2026.

The Braves’ bullpen may be among the best in baseball. At the very least, Atlanta features one of the best closers and one of the best setup men in the game.

Raisel Iglesias will handle duties in the 9th inning. Robert Suarez was signed this year, and although he does have closing experience, he is expected to pitch in the 8th inning.

Dylan Lee, Aaron Bummer and Tyler Kinley are among the other relievers in the bullpen who will make an impact.

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Finally, the Braves’ starting rotation is where things get somewhat uncertain. Chris Sale is still an ace, while Spencer Schwellenbach is one of baseball’s best young pitchers. Spencer Strider has ace potential, but he’s endured his share of ups and downs.

Reynaldo Lopez is also a candidate to start. Atlanta has a number of other options who could handle the Braves’ No. 5 pitcher duties. Bringing in another starter would not be a bad idea either.

This Braves squad features more than enough talent to bounce back and make a postseason push in 2026.