Braves’ Rival Boss Sends ‘Exceptional’ Message After Surprise Breakout

BusinessSportsMoneyBraves’ Rival Boss Sends ‘Exceptional’ Message After Surprise BreakoutByPeter Chawaga,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Peter Chawaga is a writer and editor covering Major League Baseball.Follow AuthorJun 14, 2026, 02:20pm EDTFlushing, N.Y.: New York Mets President of Baseball Operations David Stearns speaks to the media during the team's pre-opening day workout at Citi Field in Flushing, Queens, March 25, 2026. (Photo by Thomas A. Ferrara/Newsday RM via Getty Images)Newsday via Getty ImagesThe Atlanta Braves entered the season expecting to face a significant challenge from their division rivals, particularly after the New York Mets revamped their own roster with several star additions.But instead the Braves have established themselves as the team to beat in the National League East, taking the top spot from a rival that many expected to serve as the frontrunner. And that surprise breakout drew frank praise from a key Mets executive whose own team has struggled to find the same level of consistency. ForbesGiants’ 3-Year Infielder Cut By Hated Rival After Injury SetbackBy Peter ChawagaNew York Mets Boss Responds To Atlanta Braves’ Unexpected RiseSpeaking about the division race during the teams series this week, New York Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns offered a glowing assessment of the rival club that has become one of the National League’s toughest opponents.During a recent media session, Stearns acknowledged just how impressive Atlanta's run has been to start a season that his team might have hoped to dominate.“They’ve played exceptional on all sides of the ball,” Stearns said, per SNY, when asked about what his team has failed to do to make good on preseason expectations in the division. “You can make an argument they're the best team in baseball right now, or have played the best in baseball right now. They deserve a lot of credit for that. And we have not, we&...