Will inconsistent April lead to better days for Braves?

For Atlanta Braves fans, the first full month of the season has been frustrating because the team just can't seem to get it into gear. As of this writing, they are 12-13, and for every step they take forward, they take one backward.

Of course, this is a primary trait of a team playing around the .500 level. Fortunately, no other team in the National League East has gotten off to a hot start, so the Braves remain right in the thick of the race.

So far, there have been things to feel good and bad about.

The good: The highlight of the month was obviously John Smoltz getting his 3,000th career strikeout. If there was any doubt whether he would make the Hall of Fame or not, this achievement ends the discussion. He now has 210 wins plus 154 saves from when he served as closer. He is also off to a solid 3-2 start this year.

Additionally, Chipper Jones has been red hot. He has hit well above .400 this month, and the team will need his hot stick as the season unfolds.

Also, the Braves haven't missed outfielder Andruw Jones who was not re-signed after last season. He is off to a miserable start with the Dodgers. He is hitting .159 and is already getting booed.

The bad: Injuries have to be a concern. The Braves have a lot of good, young talent, but the team relies on a lot of older players. Will they be able to stay healthy? So far, the answer would have to be 'no.' Smoltz and Tom Glavine have already spent time on the disabled list, plus Chipper has missed time with leg and back issues. These three must stay healthy if the Braves are to earn a playoff berth.

There is a long way to go in the season. Most experts are picking either the Mets or the Phillies to win the division, but the Braves should be in the mix.

I have a feeling good times are ahead.