Spencer Strider's path back to elite form could redefine the Atlanta Braves’ 2026 season. Can a boost in induced vertical break (IVB) on his four-seam fastball make the difference? Jake Mastroianni unpacks the science behind IVB, revealing how this key metric transforms a pitcher’s arsenal—illustrated by Nick Pivetta’s success and Strider’s own changing performance. Discover why location, velocity, and pairing with secondary pitches like Strider’s slider are crucial, and what the advanced data tells us about getting hitters to swing under the fastball.

Additional mailbag rapid-fires pit stars like Matt Olson versus Freddie Freeman, Chris Sale against John Smoltz, and debate which pitching prospects could see MLB action first. Plus, what would it take for Chipper Jones to become the Braves’ full-time hitting coach? Tune in for analytics-driven Braves insights, intriguing hypotheticals, and answers to burning Atlanta baseball questions shaping the team’s future.

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Atlanta Braves suddenly gain $15 million in payroll flexibility after the Jurickson Profar suspension—will Alex Anthopoulos use this windfall for an impact move or wait as the season unfolds? Jake Mastroianni tackles hot mailbag questions, examining rumors of trades for Isaac Paredes, Ryan Mountcastle, and potential signings like Lucas Giolito and Zach Littell. Fans wonder if the Braves should bolster their rotation or strengthen the lineup, especially with Ha-Seong Kim and Sean Murphy possibly returning soon.

Key topics include how Mike Yastrzemski’s left-handed power can offset Profar’s absence, Michael Harris II’s spring progress and evolving approach, and whether Chipper Jones’s coaching has influenced Atlanta’s recent at-bat quality. Insightful takes on the club’s depth strategy, prospects’ status, and payroll strategy round out the discussion. Can the Braves leverage their unexpected budget for a playoff-caliber addition, or will they trust their current depth until trade deadline fireworks?

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PlayStation
This episode of is brought to you by MLB The Show 26. Visit https://mlbthe.show/lockedon and use code “LOCKEDON” to unlock a pack for use in Diamond Dynasty. Pre-Order now, Available March 17th on PlayStation 5, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. RATED E FOR EVERYONE.

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FanDuel
FanDuel is giving you a way to turn that energy into even bigger potential wins with a College Basketball Parlay Profit Boost.Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started — Play Your Game.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Austin Riley emerges as the Atlanta Braves’ biggest X-factor in 2026. Can he recapture his All-Star form and elevate the Braves’ offense from good to elite status? Jake Mastroianni spotlights Riley’s recent struggles, injury updates, and the pivotal role he plays alongside stars like Ronald Acuña Jr. and Matt Olson. The discussion digs into advanced stats like WRC+, strikeout rates, and leaderboard comparisons, making a compelling case for why Riley’s performance could define the season.

Key topics include Spencer Strider’s impact on Atlanta’s pitching staff, the importance of a high-powered offense versus a dominant rotation, and X-factor candidates like Michael Harris, Ozzy Albies, and key young relievers. Updates on Chris Sale’s and Strider’s latest outings, anticipated roster moves, and intriguing trade rumors—like a potential Ryan Mountcastle addition—keep Braves fans primed for the season. Will the Braves’ dynamic lineup and bullpen depth be enough for a championship run?

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PlayStation
This episode of is brought to you by MLB The Show 26. Visit https://mlbthe.show/lockedon and use code “LOCKEDON” to unlock a pack for use in Diamond Dynasty. Pre-Order now, Available March 17th on PlayStation 5, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. RATED E FOR EVERYONE.

Turbo Tax
For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.
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FanDuel
FanDuel is giving you a way to turn that energy into even bigger potential wins with a College Basketball Parlay Profit Boost.Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started — Play Your Game.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Atlanta Braves fans have plenty to be optimistic about heading into 2026, despite injuries, suspensions, and swirling adversity. Ronald Acuña Jr. is set for another MVP-caliber season, and a retooled bullpen anchored by Robert Suarez, Raisel Iglesias, and Dylan Lee inspires confidence in late-game situations. Can a deep roster and newly strengthened coaching staff keep the Braves in championship contention?

Jake Mastroianni highlights Atlanta’s renewed roster depth, Walt Weiss’s coaching shakeup, and resilient starting pitching corps, plus the impact of recent moves involving Mike Yastrzemski, Mauricio Dubon, and Ha-Seong Kim. Hear how smart offseason additions and a more analytically driven lineup could help offset the loss of Jurickson Profar and weather early setbacks. Get the latest clubhouse reactions, statistical strengths from last year, and hot takes on whether the Braves’ revamped approach will pay off in their hunt for another World Series run.

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PlayStation

This episode of is brought to you by MLB The Show 26. Visit https://mlbthe.show/lockedon and use code “LOCKEDON” to unlock a pack for use in Diamond Dynasty. Pre-Order now, Available March 17th on PlayStation 5, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. RATED E FOR EVERYONE.

Turbo Tax

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Indeed

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Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel

FanDuel is giving you a way to turn that energy into even bigger potential wins with a College Basketball Parlay Profit Boost. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Atlanta Braves’ path to postseason glory faces serious questions: will health and rotation woes derail their 2026 ambitions? Jake Mastroianni spotlights Atlanta’s most critical weaknesses, spotlighting how injuries to core players like Ronald Acuña, Matt Olson, and Chris Sale could unravel the team’s plans. Concerns over the starting rotation’s unpredictability, thin bullpen depth, and clutch-hitting struggles in the bottom of the lineup fuel debate—especially after Jurickson Profar’s suspension shakes up the batting order.

With base running blunders, power consistency issues, and late-game offensive slumps from Ozzie Albies and Michael Harris under the microscope, are the Braves truly ready for a World Series push? Key stats from 2025 reveal Atlanta’s lingering problems in high-leverage moments and pitching under pressure. Jake Mastroianni examines whether emerging talent and tactical tweaks can offset these red flags—or if the Braves are just one injury away from collapse.

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If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

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PlayStation

This episode of is brought to you by MLB The Show 26. Visit https://mlbthe.show/lockedon and use code “LOCKEDON” to unlock a pack for use in Diamond Dynasty. Pre-Order now, Available March 17th on PlayStation 5, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. RATED E FOR EVERYONE.

Turbo Tax

For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.

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Indeed

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Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel

FanDuel is giving you a way to turn that energy into even bigger potential wins with a College Basketball Parlay Profit Boost. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Atlanta Braves banking on their young arms for 2026—can Fuentes, Waldrep, and Ritchie anchor the next great Atlanta rotation? Jake Mastroianni explores the high stakes of relying on pitching prospects over high-priced free agent signings and questions if GM Alex Anthopoulos will ever take a big swing for an ace. How does Atlanta balance developing youth, extending Ronald Acuña Jr., and competing for a championship with financial flexibility?

Jake Mastroianni also covers bold predictions for the future rotation, the potential impact of Mike Yastrzemski in the outfield, and why shortstop remains a crucial position for the Braves’ defensive identity. With mailbag insights on Freddie Freeman rumors, bullpen battles, and the looming challenge of MLB expansion in the Southeast, Braves fans get all the latest analysis on roster strategy, prospect development, and offseason moves. Is Atlanta building the next legendary rotation, or playing it too safe?

Everydayer Club

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FanDuel

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Atlanta Braves rocked by Jerickson Profar's stunning 162-game suspension for a second consecutive PED violation—how will the offense recover before Opening Day? Jake Mastroianni breaks down what Profar’s season-long ban means for Atlanta’s lineup, the $15 million in salary relief, and the immediate challenges facing the Braves’ quest for NL East dominance.

Key topics include internal replacement options like Eli White, Dominic Smith, and Ben Gamel, external targets such as Andrew McCutchen and Isaac Paredes, and the impact on potential DH and left field platoons. Mastroianni explores Anthopoulos’ pressing need for roster moves, possible trade scenarios, and the ripple effects on team chemistry after repeated setbacks. Are the Braves’ World Series hopes in jeopardy, or will new talent and creative strategy keep Atlanta’s championship window wide open?

Everydayer Club

If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

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PlayStation

This episode of is brought to you by MLB The Show 26. Visit mlbtheshow.com/lockedon and use code “LOCKEDON” to unlock a pack for use in Diamond Dynasty. Pre-Order now, Available March 17th on PlayStation 5, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. RATED E FOR EVERYONE.

Turbo Tax

For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.

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Indeed

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Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel

FanDuel is giving you a way to turn that energy into even bigger potential wins with a College Basketball Parlay Profit Boost. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Which Atlanta Braves prospect will shape the 2024 season and become the next fan favorite? Jake Mastroianni and Gaurav unveil the Braves’ top 10 farm system talents, spotlighting high-upside names like Alex Lodise, explosive shortstop John Gil, dynamic pitcher J.R. Ritchie, and left-handed phenom Cam Caminiti. The countdown ignites heated conversation around tools, risk, and upside—can Hill fill the future shortstop void, and is Caminiti already untradeable?

Get inside analysis on key pitching prospects like Luke Sinnard, Briggs McKenzie, and Owen Murphy, plus the electric center fielder Diego Tornes—pegged as a potential Top 10 MLB prospect. Discussion includes which arms could impact the Atlanta rotation or bullpen as soon as this year, spring training’s biggest breakout candidates, and what sets these players apart in the Braves’ ongoing quest for October greatness.

Everydayer Club

If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

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PlayStation

This episode of is brought to you by MLB The Show 26. Visit mlbtheshow.com/lockedon and use code “LOCKEDON” to unlock a pack for use in Diamond Dynasty. Pre-Order now, Available March 17th on PlayStation 5, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. RATED E FOR EVERYONE.

Turbo Tax

For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.

Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.

Indeed

Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast

Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel

FanDuel is giving you a way to turn that energy into even bigger potential wins with a College Basketball Parlay Profit Boost. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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