Pitching/Batting Efficiencies: NL East

The most competitive division in baseball might have a change in hierarchy if the Mets can continue to be better than the Braves.

The Mets haven't played as many games as the rest of the division, and they still show signs of not being able to support Jacob deGrom with a reliable offense, but their overall Batting Average is top ten in the majors, and they're currently #6 in ERA. These numbers coincide with their sole possession of first place in the division, a stark contrast from the start the Braves are having as winners of the division the last few years.

Atlanta ranks bottom ten in the majors in Batting Average and third worst in ERA, and they're only a game up of the last place Nats. Similar to the Yankees and their situation, there is lots of time left to turn it up. Unfortunately, the Braves have to compete with the Phillies and Mets for that top spot.

The Phillies are the closest to average as far as numbers go for any team in the big leagues. They're #15 in ERA and #13 in BA, and are hoping to hold off the Braves in their matchups this year to take their place atop the NL East. The umps helped them earlier this month in a very controversial call, something the Braves really didn't need considering their struggles.

The Nationals have been riddled with injuries and are currently in last place, but their #2 batting average in baseball is something to smile about. Don't count them out, either. Juan Soto should be an MVP very soon.

Speaking of not counting anyone out, the Marlins beat out the Mets, Nationals, and Phillies last year to make the postseason and upset the Cubs, and they're above average in both ERA and BA this season, currently in 3rd place in the division. They have some high quality pitchers in Sixto Sanchez and Sandy Alcantara, and they will be a tough matchup for all the NL East teams.

Charting accurate as of games through April 17th.

The Mets separate themselves from the herd statistically, and their record supports the numbers. Look out for the rest of the teams to catch up as the season continues, but the Mets think their time is now, and they deserve to believe that.