MLB Preview: Atlanta Braves

The Atlanta Braves got off to a good start in the 2007 season, but ultimately their lack of pitching depth caused the team to come up short in the NL East. The Braves hope they have solved that this year by bringing in a familiar face. Tom Glavine rejoins the Braves, and is hoping he can rebound from a disappointing season with the Mets.

It's now time to take a look at three issues regarding the 2008 Atlanta Braves.

(1) Did the team make the right decision by trading Edgar Renteria?

Edgar Renteria was a key contributor on the Braves offense last season as he hit .332, and was on base nearly 40% of the time. Renteria also provided some pop as he hit 12 homers, which is solid for a shortstop. The Braves dealt Renteria because they felt they had some quality options in the minor leagues, who were ready to take over.

It remains to be seen if that's the case for the Braves, as shortstop is a key defensive position for the pitching staff, and if a young player isn't ready to perform it can have drastic consequences. The Braves will go with Yunel Escobar, who performed well during his stint with the Braves last season.

The Braves received some much needed pitching help in the trade as Jar Jurjeans comes over from Detroit. Jurjeans pitched well for Detroit last year, as he got a slot in the rotation last year as injuries befell Jeremy Bonderman and others. Jurjeans doesn't have dominant stuff, but should provide the team with some much needed consistency in the rotation.

(2) Will the Braves young players be ready to step up for departed veterans?

This is a key issue for the Braves this year as Escobar will be asked to fill the shoes of an All Star quality shortstop. The team also will need to find a long term answer for the departed Andruw Jones. It appears the team will be going with Mark Kotsay to open the season, but it's clear that's just a stop gap solution to provide time for prospects Brandon Jones and Jordan Schafer to develop.