Braves insider makes bold 2025 NL East prediction in light of Ronald Acuna Jr., Spencer Strider returning from injury

The Atlanta Braves had a hot streak of winning division titles from 2018 to 2023. Their reign was cut short by their rivals Philadelphia Phillies in 2024. The New York Mets have also emerged as contenders after making the National League Championship Series appearance. Their improved rosters will make it harder for the Braves to regain their title.

Speaking on the "Hammer Territory" podcast, Braves insider Justin Toscano claimed that the current roster is capable enough to win the NL East title in 2025.

"I still think it's one of the best rosters in baseball, and I thought last year it was the best roster in baseball going into that season," Toscano said. "Now the Dodgers have added to a point where it's got to be them, but it's still one of the best rosters in baseball and they're going to win the division."[41:55]

Toscano feels the Braves will be energized after getting back pitcher Spencer Strider and 2023 NL MVP Ronaldo Acuna Jr. from injuries in 2025.

"One of the biggest things I thought was missing last year was Spencer Strider's personality, which is that of a Chris Sale in terms of just that go-get-him, competitor, leave-no-stone-unturned attitude," the insider added.

"That dude will make you bloody him and drag him through the street to beat him in a fight. He's tough, and I think him and Acuna coming back with that motivation after losing another year of his career—there's a lot to like with this team."

Jeff Passan notes Braves regaining Ronald Acuna Jr. and Spencer Strider only makes them stronger

In his latest article on ESPN, MLB insider Jeff Passan named the Braves as one of the teams in need of making a move this offseason. Despite that, he had a special mention for the team who are set to get back Ronald Acuna Jr. and Spencer Strider in the team. As per Passan, it will make them stronger.

"Whether Atlanta spreads its gains out over a number of players to exploit falling prices or prefers to go after a single impact-type player, the Braves are poised to add Ronald Acuña Jr. and Spencer Strider to a team good enough to make the postseason without them," Passan wrote.

The Braves' 89 wins last season were certainly lower than their 102.5 victory average from the 2022 and 2023 seasons combined. They'd like a similar performance from their star-studded lineup this year.