Dodgers vs Braves Preview: High Stakes In the National League
Updated August 25, 2026
Updated August 25, 2026
The Los Angeles Dodgers begin a three-game road series against the Atlanta Braves on Tuesday night at Truist Park, with both teams entering the matchup in strong postseason positions. Los Angeles is 80-51 and riding a six-game winning streak, while Atlanta is 76-55 and looking to make up ground in the National League. The Dodgers will send Tyler Glasnow to the mound in his return from a lengthy injured-list stint, while the Braves counter with Bryce Elder. First pitch is scheduled for 7:15 p.m. ET.
The Dodgers are our pick to win 5-3. Their recent form, deeper overall roster, and pitching advantage give them the edge, particularly with Tyler Glasnow returning to the rotation. Los Angeles has scored efficiently during its winning streak, while Ohtani, Freddie Freeman, and the rest of the lineup should have enough opportunities against Bryce Elder to put pressure on Atlanta. The Braves should generate some offense at Truist Park, but the Dodgers' pitching depth and superior ability to create runs in the middle and late innings should ultimately prove decisive. You can get a full statistical breakdown and more Dodgers vs Braves predictions by clicking this link.
This series carries significant implications for the National League playoff picture. The Dodgers remain in contention for the league's top seed and have recently closed the gap on Milwaukee after sweeping Colorado and Pittsburgh. Atlanta, meanwhile, leads the NL East and has an opportunity to strengthen its position against one of the league's elite teams.
With only a little more than a month remaining in the regular season, three games against another potential postseason opponent could have added importance when October seeding is determined. The Dodgers' recent six-game winning streak also gives them considerable momentum heading into Atlanta.
Los Angeles has been one of baseball's hottest teams recently, winning six straight games while getting contributions throughout the roster. Shohei Ohtani has reached 30 home runs, while Max Muncy has been particularly productive during the Dodgers' recent surge. The team also received a dominant outing from Blake Snell in Monday's 4-0 victory over Pittsburgh.
The biggest storyline Tuesday, however, is Glasnow's return. He has posted a 2.72 ERA with 49 strikeouts across 39⅔ innings in seven starts this season. If he can work effectively into the middle innings, Los Angeles will have a significant pitching advantage. It is entirely possible that rust is a factor for Glasnow here, but that remains to be seen.
The Dodgers will have to adjust without center fielder Andy Pages, who was recently placed on the 10-day injured list with a fractured left hand. Los Angeles has recalled Alek Thomas and is expected to rotate its outfield options.
Atlanta has enough offensive firepower to make this a competitive matchup, particularly at home. Matt Olson leads the Braves with 36 home runs and 77 RBIs, while Michael Harris II has provided a strong all-around presence and leads the Braves with a .294 batting average. The Braves enter the game at 76-55 after beating Milwaukee 4-2 on Monday.
The challenge will be facing Glasnow and a deep Dodgers pitching staff. Atlanta will need to capitalize on scoring opportunities early rather than allowing Los Angeles to control the game with its pitching depth. Elder has been solid this season, but the Dodgers' lineup presents a difficult matchup from top to bottom.
