In 2010, the Philadelphia Phillies held off the Atlanta Braves to capture the NL East crown for the fourth straight year. With the addition of Cliff Lee, everyone has already proclaimed them 2011 NL East champs.
But in the words of Lee Corso: “Not so fast my friend.”
The 2011 Atlanta Braves are much improved as well, and should not be disregarded so fast. The 2010 Wild Card showed the young Braves how to win, and 2011 should be another step forward to winning the division.
Though the Phillies are the favorite, here are 10 reasons why they should watch out for the Braves in 2011.