Following play on Sept. 22, 2001, three teams were separated by 3-1/2 games in the NL East. But it’s a largely forgotten pennant race, with good reason. Sept. 11th, for one. But the uninspired play of the Braves’ down the stretch was the biggest factor.
They went 12-16 in August and finished the second half only three games over .500. Take away a 19-9 June and you’re talking about a .500 team, one that struggled offensively throughout the season, with a spotty bullpen and aging starters.
The layoff following the terrorist attacks hit the Braves hard. They had won 6 of 7 prior to Sept.