The Braves opening day lineup for 2009 will look far different from the 08 Braves. Mark Texiera is no longer protecting Chipper Jones and a once promising Jeff Francouer is on life support. Chipper was the only bright spot in the Braves lineup. He had close to a career year, even winning a batting title while fighting injuries. As long as Chipper stays healthy, look for him to remain a professional hitter. Brian McCann battled through injuries much of last season along with rising star Yunel Escobar. Both of them will need to stay healthy if the Braves want to compete. Yunel had what some may consider a disappointing follow up to his rookie year but look for Escobar to bounce back. He has all of the tools to become a great shortstop. Kelly Johnson will play second and looks poised to progress nicely. He and Yunel will bat 1 and 2. Casey Kotchman takes over at first in the trade for Mark Texiera. Kotchman was one of the Angels top minor league prospects for a number of years and don't be surprised to see him hit at least twenty bombs and drive in eighty. The Braves are still looking for a left fielder and maybe Frank Wren can find one before spring training begins. The Braves top prospect Jordan Schafer should compete for a starting spot in the outfield as well. It may be difficult for the Braves' offense to put up numbers like Philly and New York night in and night out, but with a healthy Chipper Jones and Brian McCann and the continued growth of Yunel Escobar, the Braves have some pieces. Jeff Francoeur is essential to the Braves success as well. He will come into this season with something to prove and hopefully he can regain his confidence at the dish.