Grant McCauley: Braves doing well 'controlling what they can control'

The Dukes & Bell podcast celebrates a dominant start to the 2026 Atlanta Braves season, highlighted by a sweep of the Phillies at Citizens Bank Park—the first in nearly a decade. Grant McCauley joins the show to break down the team's success, emphasizing their ability to 'control the controllables' after a turbulent 2025. He praises the Braves' consistent pitching, league-leading run differential, and the emergence of key players like Austin Riley and Michael Harris, whose improved swing decisions and plate discipline have unlocked their full potential. McCauley also highlights the team's managerial flexibility under Walt Weiss, the depth of the offense, and the strategic use of the bullpen—including Jose Suarez’s three-inning save in a blowout game. The conversation turns to upcoming matchups against the Nationals, a young, high-powered team with promising talent like C.J. Abrams and James Wood. The episode closes with lighthearted banter about Ronald Acuna Jr.'s theatrics, including a playful 'Hogan ear to the flap' gesture, underscoring the fun and flair that adds to the Braves' identity.