With one sixth of the 2012 MLB season now in the books, the Atlanta Braves have been able to shake off their historic collapse last season to put themselves in a first-place tie in the NL East with the surprising Washington Nationals.
The usual standings in the division have been reversed, as Philadelphia, who have won the last five NL East crowns, is currently languishing in last place at 14-18.
Atlanta and Washington, meanwhile, have raced out to a five-game lead over the Phillies after one month. The New York Mets, at 18-13, are right behind them at only .5 games back.
The new-look Miami Marlins are in the mix as well at 16-15, as the NL East has been the most competitive division in MLB top-to-bottom in 2012 so far.
Atlanta, with a +24 point differential, has been the best team in 2012, but as they well know, anything can still happen over the next five months.
For more news and notes on the Braves, head over to Talking Chop.