The 2011 Atlanta Braves season was highlighted by a formidable pitching staff and the historic debut of closer Craig Kimbrel, who set a then-major league rookie record with 46 saves and earned National League Rookie of the Year honors. The team remained a strong postseason contender for the vast majority of the year, finishing with an impressive 89-73 record and featuring standout performances from All-Stars Brian McCann and Jair Jurrjens. Despite a difficult final month, the season showcased a deep well of young talent and maintained the franchise's long-standing tradition of competitive excellence. The 14th overall pick in the 2007 MLB Draft and a five-time Gold Glove Award winner, Jason Heyward was a 2010 All-Star outfielder who hit a home run in his first career at-bat for the Atlanta Braves and later helped the Chicago Cubs win the 2016 World Series.