Now that the 2025 season is officially here, the Atlanta Braves finally get their season started in San Diego against the Padres. But their real competition lies in the NL East as they fight for this year’s division crown.

Although many injuries plagued Atlanta’s last season, three teams from the east division made it to the playoffs. That included the Phillies as division winners and the Mets as a Wild Card entry.

With the Braves now heading into full strength, they are considered to be the division favorites even with Philadelphia’s strong pitching and offense.

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ESPN, MLB.com and Yahoo Sports all have the Braves leading the NL East to another division crown.

The Braves have a hefty lineup that includes Matt Olsen, Ozzie Albies, Austin Riley and Ronald Acuna Jr., who will be back soon.

However, even if many major outlets predict this outcome. Atlanta has an aggressive path with the newly revitalized Mets and Phillies standing in their way.

The Mets have for a long time been killed by the Braves in their history and it has happened more recently in 2022. But now, with the acquisition of Juan Soto in the offseason, New York will make a great push for the East crown. Francisco Lindor, Soto and Pete Alonso will lead the pack.

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But Bryce Harper and the Phillies will have to say about that. With their division win last season, Philadelphia will look to repeat and go further into the postseason. The starting rotation with Zack Wheeler and Ranger Suarez will be a tough opponent to get through.

All three of these teams can make a case for winning the East. Many believe the Braves are among the best to do so. Despite that, all three teams can make the playoffs with wild-card berths.

Nevertheless, with Opening Day upon us, the road to the postseason starts now and the NL East is one to keep an eye on as the season progresses.