Braves offer good reasons to be a believer
1. Mark Teixeira
The Braves will have him for a full season, his last before he becomes a free agent. The centerpiece of a strong lineup, Teixeira could be MVP.
2. Tim Hudson
For all the talk about John Smoltz, Tom Glavine and Mike Hampton, people often forget that Hudson, 31, is an ace in his prime.
3. Jair Jurrjens
Half the return for Edgar Renteria, Jurrjens showed poise in his seven-start call-up with the Tigers last season and made a strong impression on manager Bobby Cox this spring.
4. Bullpen arms
Besides improved depth in their rotation, the Braves boast a large corps of hard-throwing relievers: Tyler Yates, Manny Acosta, Peter Moylan and closer Rafael Soriano. Chris Resop, claimed on waivers from the Angels, could be another.
5. Young impact players
Start with right fielder Jeff Francoeur and catcher Brian McCann, both 24. But don't forget shortstop Yunel Escobar, 25; second baseman Kelly Johnson, 26 and, coming soon, center fielder Jordan Schafer, 21.
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