In a four-team race, the Phillies will face the defending division champion Atlanta Braves 16 more times, and the faithful of both organizations can expect hard-fought games if health isn’t a factor.

Continuing the rivalry:

While Philadelphia Phillies fans are basking in the sunshine of heralded expectations, Atlanta is briefly missing a prominent rotation piece. However, before it’s over, the Braves will make their presence felt because they too have youngsters trying to make their mark. And they won’t forget those three losses.

IN OTHER WORDS: “Emulation is not rivalry. Emulation is the child of ambition; rivalry is the unlovable daughter of envy.” – Honore de Balzac

In 2018, both franchises arrived a season early with only Atlanta reaching the finish line to capture the divisional pennant. Meanwhile, the Fightins had an 80-82 record after a dismal second half, as the Braves advanced to the NLDS with a 90-72 mark.

Regarding offseason changes, Atlanta signed Josh Donaldson and Brian McCann, but they did not re-up Anibal Sanchez. As for the red pinstripes, they acquired Bryce Harper, J.T. Realmuto, Jean Segura, Andrew McCutchen, David Robertson and Jose Alvarez.

While the Braves lineup is solid one through six, their middle relief is thin, and their five-man staff may be too dependent on rookie hurlers. Concerning the Phils, the addition of four hitters has transformed their everyday eight into arguably the National League’s best, but their rotation has three still-developing arms.

Based on NL East predictions currently, the average of four national sites has Atlanta finishing fourth with 82 victories: Their top forecast is 84 wins to a low of 79. On the other hand, the hometown nine’s midpoint for third place is 86.6 with a ceiling of 88 triumphs to a floor of 85.

Injurywise, the Braves are waiting for ace Mike Foltynewicz‘s return, while the Fightins will be without a setup man due to his recent setback. But regressions and surprises will also be factors. So, will this be the 162 when a developing player makes an impact?

Intangibles are usually a difference-maker. For example, adding a marque name can boost clubhouse spirits to produce a winning attitude and higher expectations. But the opposite can also be true due to a campaign-ending surgery.