Braves surge back into playoff picture

Shortstop Dansby Swanson, pictured here celebrating on second base, has been having a career year for the Braves. He has helped lead the team up the standings as of late. // Photo courtesy of Brett Davis via USA TODAY SportsThe Atlanta Braves have almost reached the midway point of their season and have been able to maintain their hold onto second place in the NL East behind the Mets despite their many ups and downs.

The Braves season started slowly and they remained below .500 for most of their first 50 games in the season. They experienced some injuries highlighted by the late return of Ronald Acuna Jr. from an injury last season and the loss of relieving pitchers Tyler Matzek and Luke…