Don’t get me wrong last night’s 2-1 win over St. Louis might have been the most exciting win so far on the young season. But the Braves have some things to work on.

So the Atlanta Braves are 10-10 on the season. Not too bad considering the hitting has been inconsistent at best. We all knew going into this season the Braves were not going to bomb many homeruns….but we can’t even get hits with men in scoring position. I know you’re thinking that I’m going to start dogging certain players. Well you’re wrong. I think this lineup can be really good…if tweaked a little.

Let’s start at the top Kelly Johnson is really struggling (0 for his last 8 and his Avg down to .203). How bout we put him back at the bottom of the lineup where he seems to hit better. Jordan Schafer has 13 BBs compared to Kelly’s 8. And we all know Schafer has some great speed. If we get him on in front of Escobar and Chipper we could start getting runs early in games. Not having to wait on opposing pitchers to walk in runs or trying to get big homers late. I also think with Kelly Johnson/Martin Prado down in the lineup it will give them the opportunity to drive in more runs. Schafer is suited to get on base and score not drive in runs.

With Brian McCann still dealing with blurriness, David Ross has stepped up huge for the Bravos. In 8 games this season Ross has 2 HRs, 6 RBIs, and .360 AVG. He’s no McCann but will do until Brian is ready. The lineup can shape up pretty good but they just have to stay consistent. Chipper can’t do everything and needs some hits when guys are in position.

I am not one to doubt Bobby Cox. But we need to start playing smart baseball: bunting guys over with no outs, stealing, hit and runs. We need to shake things up to get wins early in the season, because June is coming fast and is looking really tough.

In case you missed it:

Mike Gonzalez was lights out last night in the 2-1 Braves win over the Cardinals. After Matt Diaz put the Braves up in the bottom of the 8th, Gonzo slammed the door on St. Louis. Striking out the side including Albert Pujols looking and Ryan Ludwick swinging. He looked to be like the Gonzo of old with pitches reaches 95! Hopefully this is a sign of things to come.

Jojo Reyes pitched great in his second start of the season. Struck out 7, gave up 3 hits , and only one run.  Got no decision but he kept the Braves in the game to win.

Tom Glavine says he will try to throw on Monday or Tuesday to see if he will continue his rehab or will consider retiring.