The Atlanta Braves and Los Angeles Dodgers kick off the 2026 NL Division Series today at Dodger Stadium, with first pitch set for 4 p.m. ET. This matchup marks the continuation of a fierce rivalry as both teams vie for a spot in the National League Championship Series.
Why it matters: The Braves and Dodgers have a storied playoff history, with Atlanta ousting Los Angeles in the 2021 NL Championship Series. This season, Atlanta aims to advance past the Division Series for the first time since that victory.
- The Braves won their last playoff series against the Philadelphia Phillies, securing their place in the NLDS after a decisive 6-2 win in Game 3 on October 1.
- Los Angeles, the defending back-to-back champions, are heavily favored to win this series, seeking a historic third consecutive World Series title.
- Today’s game is the sixth postseason meeting between the two teams, with Atlanta winning twice and Los Angeles three times in prior matchups.
Driving the news: The NLDS Game 1 features Braves pitcher Dylan Dodd making his postseason debut against Dodgers starter Tarik Skubal. Dodd enters with a solid 2.54 ERA this season, aiming to replicate his team's recent success against Los Angeles.
- Dodd, who has a 2.35 ERA over his final 34 appearances, will be Atlanta's opener in a bullpen game against Skubal, who has a 2.72 ERA this season.
- Skubal has been a dominant force, boasting impressive strikeout numbers and an ability to limit walks effectively.
- The game will be broadcast on FOX, FOX Deportes, and FOX ONE, with streaming available on Fubo.
State of play: Both teams are dealing with injuries that could impact their performance in the series. Key players are sidelined, but both squads feature strong lineups.
- The Braves are missing pitchers Bryce Elder and Martín Pérez, who are out due to injuries, potentially impacting their bullpen depth.
- On the Dodgers side, several players, including Gavin Stone and Will Klein, are also on the injured list, affecting their pitching options.
- Los Angeles has a powerful lineup, with Shohei Ohtani leading the offense, hitting .275 with 30 home runs this season.
The big picture: The Dodgers enter the postseason as the No. 2 seed in the National League, having received a first-round bye. Their offensive prowess is highlighted by a lineup that ranked second in wRC+ during the regular season.
- Atlanta won five of six regular-season matchups against the Dodgers, outscoring them 26-15, giving them confidence heading into the series.
- Dodgers' manager Dave Roberts has been utilizing a platoon in the leadoff spot, adjusting to matchups against opposing pitchers.
- This NLDS is particularly important for the Braves, who have not advanced past the Division Series since their 2021 championship run.
What they're saying: Analysts and fans alike are buzzing about the implications of this series for both teams, especially considering their recent histories.
- “The Braves have a chance to make a statement and show they can compete at the highest level again,” said an MLB analyst.
- “Los Angeles is looking to solidify their dynasty status with a potential third straight title,” another expert noted.
- Fans are eager to see if the Braves can overcome the Dodgers' formidable roster and regain their playoff momentum.
By the numbers: Key statistics highlight the strengths and weaknesses of both teams as they head into Game 1.
- Tarik Skubal has a record of 12-7 with a 2.72 ERA, making him a tough opponent for the Braves.
- Dylan Dodd, starting for the Braves, has a 4-1 record and 2.54 ERA, showing promise in his limited appearances this season.
- Shohei Ohtani has recorded 30 home runs and 81 RBIs in 2026, contributing significantly to the Dodgers' offensive output.
What's next: The series continues with Game 2 scheduled for October 4, 2026, at 5 p.m. PT / 8 p.m. ET at Dodger Stadium. The Braves will look to adjust their strategy based on the outcome of Game 1.
- If the Braves can find a way to score against Skubal early, they may shift the momentum in their favor.
- The Dodgers aim to leverage their home-field advantage and capitalize on their postseason experience.
- Fans can catch all the action on FOX, with additional coverage available through various streaming platforms.
As the Braves and Dodgers clash in this highly anticipated playoff series, the stakes couldn't be higher for both teams. With their postseason legacies on the line, expect fireworks both on and off the field as they battle for supremacy in the National League.