Atlanta Braves Seating Chart

The Atlanta Braves come off a season in which expectations were certainly not met for a team that has dominated the National League East in a way no one has ever seen before.

Now the Braves come into 2009 hoping that they can catch the World Series champion Philadelphia Phillies and the New York Mets despite making few moves in the free agent market.

Atlanta's biggest free agent signing came in the form of pitcher Derek Lowe, who will help take some of the sting away of John Smoltz' defection to the Boston Red Sox.

Lowe was fantastic last year and appears to have found a permanent home in the National League. He should slide into the rotation as the No. 2 starter behind ace Tim Hudson.

Hudson had been mostly disappointing in an Atlanta uniform but managed to bounce back with a strong 2008 season. Injuries are always a concern with his frail frame, so it remains to be seen whether he can stay healthy.

The Braves also acquired Javier Vasquez from the Chicago White Sox, and he should add to a rotation that could be quite good. Tom Glavine signed a one-year contract to return for what very well could be his final major league season.

The team traded first baseman Mark Teixeira to the Los Angeles Angels at last year's trade deadline knowing that they would be hard-pressed to sign him once he reached free agency.

It turned out to be a good deal for the Braves, who were able to secure Casey Kotchman as their new first baseman. Kotchman is a solid hitter and terrific field, not to mention way less costly.

Outfielder Jeff Francoeur was absolutely terrible last season, but the Braves remain hopeful he will bounce back in 2009. The Braves also added Garrett Anderson to the mix, and he could platoon with Francoeur.

The bullpen could be an issue, particularly at closer. It looks like the job is Mike Gonzalez', but several others could be in the mix if he struggles at any point during the season.

Atlanta has made some quality offseason moves, but I still think they are a little bit behind the Phillies and the Mets in what is becoming a very competitive division.