Will Atlanta Braves Return to Playoffs in 2013?

Updated 2:28 p.m., April 1

The Atlanta Braves have been winners the past two seasons. But the fact is, they have not been to the full playoffs either season, although the playoffs once were routine for them.

And when the Braves open their 2013 season Monday (April 1) at Turner Field, there will still be challenges. Gone is team icon Chipper Jones, who retired after the 2012 season. Also, the Braves will be without All Star catcher Brian McCann (Duluth High) for at least the first couple of weeks.

Replacing Jones' bat and presence in the lineup will be a large challenge. Also gone is utility player Martin Prado, who was traded to Arizona in the deal that brought outfielder Justin Upton and third baseman Chris Johnson to Atlanta. Another key addition was free agent outfielder B.J. Upton.

Also, the Braves will be looking to returning veterans Justin Heyward and Freddie Freeman for offense, as well as 2B Dan Uggla.

But McCann had shoulder surgery in the offseason and will not be in the lineup for awhile. Also, the team will be wondering whether he can rebound from a career-low .230 batting average in 2012.

The Braves won 94 games in 2012, but lost the one-game wild-card playoff to St. Louis.

-- What do you think? Will Atlanta return to the playoffs this season? Share your predictions in the comments below.

See also:

• Should Georgia-Tennessee Border Be Changed Over Water?