FanPost

Do the Braves have a true "Leader?"



One common characteristic that most great teams have is a player who leads both in the clubhouse AND on the field. Typically, this player is (1) a long-time starter, (2) has consistently been an all-star caliber player for most of his career, (3) sets an example of how a player should conduct himself while in uniform, (4) is willing to spend time mentoring and developing younger players, (5) and has an "it" factor about him--some type of aura or charisma that makes people want to pay attention to him. Think David Ortiz, or Mike Trout.

The Braves have hand a handful of these leaders over the past several decades, starting with Dale Murphy, then Terry Pendleton, Greg Maddux, and Chipper Jones.

But who now, on this current team? Freddie Freeman is the most likely candidate, but does he really have the "it" factor, and is "Mr. Hugs" the strongest candidate to sit down a newbie who failed to hustle out a ground ball? I honestly am not sure. This season will tell--perhaps Freddie will prove me wrong, or perhaps the new acquisition of Josh Donaldson will fill the void. But if not, this could be the missing piece that prevents the Braves from reaching their fullest potential.

This FanPost does not express the views or opinions of Battery Power.