Motivated by postseason hopes

As a Major Leaguer, it's always nice to head into September still playing for something.  Many of us have been working out since November and before the long season begins you always have those two months at Spring Training.

So it's always easy for your mind to start wondering during the final 30 days.  But being in a pennant race, keeps you motivated and gives you something to be excited about every day you come to the ballpark.    I am fortunate that there have been only two years that I think we've been out of it.  I remember September being a long, long month those years.

We've found away to stay in it this year and it looks like the Wild Card would be a more reasonable way to go.  It doesn't matter how you get in.   Our starting pitching gives us a chance every night.  I think that will ultimately what keeps us in it.

And as I've said before, if you're playing meaningful games in the final weeks that can definitely help you in the postseason.

My first season with the Braves has been great.  The tone was set early with a very laid back Spring Training, which I thoroughly enjoyed.  They've incorporated a great group of guys here.  
The city of Atlanta has been fun.  I'm happy it hasn't been as hot as they say it has been in the past.  It's  a great place to play and you can see why so many guys have enjoyed playing here over the years.