NL East Preview: A Look at the Teams as MLB Spring Training Approaches

The National League East (NL East) is set to be one of the most competitive divisions in Major League Baseball (MLB) as spring training kicks into gear. With teams like the Atlanta Braves, Miami Marlins, Philadelphia Phillies, and Washington Nationals gearing up for the 2024 season, there’s plenty of intrigue. Let’s dive into the key storylines, additions, and losses for each team as they prepare for another thrilling season.

Atlanta Braves: Building on Recent Success

The Atlanta Braves are coming off a solid 2024 season with an 89-73 record and are looking to maintain their dominance in the NL East. Manager Brian Snitker, entering his 10th season, will lead the team from their spring training site in North Port, Florida. The Braves had a relatively quiet offseason but made a significant splash in late January by signing Jurickson Profar, who had a breakout season with the San Diego Padres. Profar is expected to bolster the lineup, while Bryan De La Cruz will likely start the season in a right field platoon with Jarred Kelenic.

The Braves did experience some key losses, including Max Fried, who signed with the New York Yankees, and other contributors like Charlie Morton, Jorge Soler, and Ramón Laureano. However, the team is banking on internal growth, particularly with the return of Spencer Strider, who missed all of last season due to elbow surgery. Strider’s return, alongside pitchers like Chris Sale, Spencer Schwellenbach, and Reynaldo Lopez, could make the Braves’ rotation formidable. Additionally, Ronald Acuña Jr., recovering from his second torn ACL, is expected to join the team shortly after Opening Day, adding another explosive element to their lineup.

Miami Marlins: Embracing a Full Rebuild

The Miami Marlins, who finished last season with a 62-100 record, are entering a full rebuild mode. Under new manager Clayton McCullough, the team is focusing on developing young talent rather than competing immediately. Their spring training in Jupiter, Florida, will likely focus on experimenting with roster spots and building for the future.

Miami made minimal major league signings, with only infielder Eric Wagaman joining on a split contract. However, the team acquired promising prospects like Max Acosta and Matt Mervis through trades, both of whom could see time in the majors this year. The Marlins also parted ways with key players, including Jesus Luzardo, Jake Burger, and Vidal Brujan, signaling their commitment to a long-term rebuild.

One of the most compelling storylines for the Marlins will be how they handle their pitching talent, particularly Sandy Alcantara, who is returning from Tommy John surgery, and Eury Pérez, a 21-year-old phenom still recovering from the same procedure. The team’s performance this season will likely hinge on how well their young players develop and whether they can accrue enough future value to become competitive in coming years.

Philadelphia Phillies: Running It Back with an Aging Core

The Philadelphia Phillies, who finished 2024 with a 95-67 record, are sticking with their aging core in hopes of making a deep playoff run. Manager Rob Thomson, entering his fourth season, will oversee spring training in Clearwater, Florida, with a roster that looks largely unchanged from last year. The Phillies made some under-the-radar signings, including left-hander Jesus Luzardo, who strengthens their rotation, and Max Kepler, who is projected to be the everyday left fielder. Jordan Romano, a key bullpen addition, and swingman Joe Ross also provide much-needed depth.

Despite these additions, the Phillies lost several contributors, including Jeff Hoffman, Carlos Estévez, and Austin Hays, which could impact their bullpen and outfield depth. The team’s core, featuring stars like Bryce Harper, Trea Turner, Kyle Schwarber, J.T. Realmuto, Zack Wheeler, and Aaron Nola, is still intact, but the clock is ticking. After an early exit in the NLDS last season, there was an expectation that the Phillies would shake up their roster. Instead, they’re choosing to run it back, hoping for one more championship push before their key players’ primes expire.

Washington Nationals: Searching for Relevance Post-World Series

The Washington Nationals, who finished 2024 with a 71-91 record, are attempting to rebuild their roster after a disappointing stretch since their 2019 World Series victory. Manager Dave Martinez, entering his eighth season, will lead the team from their spring training site in West Palm Beach, Florida. The Nationals made a few notable offseason moves, including trading for first baseman Nathaniel