SI.com Power Rankings: Braves Rank Second in Pre-Season

Sports Illustrated released their Pre-Season Major League Baseball power rankings today. On top of the charts are the Washington Nationals and at the polar opposite of the list are the Houston Astros.

Nov 29, 2012; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Braves president John Schuerholz and manager Fredi Gonzalez announce the signing of outfielder B.J. Upton during a press conference at Turner Field. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports

The Atlanta Braves have been making headlines this off-season and it’s showing to be paying off some early dividends.

While the Braves lost some key figures in their lineup, they also gained some strong resources that make them a serious threat to win the World Series.

The Braves lost Martin Prado and Randall Delgado, but in return they gained Justin Upton and Chris Johnson from the Arizona Diamondbacks. This solves the issue of who will replace Chipper Jones who retired after last season as well as who will replace Prado in the outfield.

Atlanta also lost the services of Tommy Hanson, David Ross, Eric Hinske, and Michael Bourn.

However other marquee transactions for the Braves landed them BJ Upton, Jordan Walden, and Gerald Laird.

With the likes of Dan Uggla, Freddi Freeman and Brian McCann (currently injured) returning to Atlanta, the Braves are a serious threat to win the World Series this year.

To see the full list of the pre-season power rankings, click here! Be sure to follow Bryant on Twitter @bryantdouglass!