2026 NL Divison Series Preview: What you need to know about the Dodgers vs. Braves matchup

Key Points:

• The Dodgers begin their NLDS campaign aiming for a three-peat after a first-round bye earned by winning 100 games, finishing second-best in MLB behind the Brewers; they face the Braves, who won the NL East and defeated the Phillies in the Wild Card round.
• The Dodgers' pitching rotation is a key advantage, boasting the second-best team ERA (3.43) in MLB, with Tarik Skubal starting Game 1 and strong bullpen contributors like Scott, Vesia, Bubic, and Sasaki expected to play major roles.
• Offensively, the Dodgers have shown strong overall numbers but face concerns due to injuries and inconsistent performances from key players like Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman, and Will Smith; Josue De Paula could be a potential x-factor.
• The Braves' rotation is weakened by injuries, with key starters Martin Perez and Bryce Elder unavailable, but their bullpen remains strong, featuring All-Star closer Raisel Iglesias and effective lefty arms; offensively, they struggled overall but showed improvement in the Wild Card series.
• The NLDS schedule starts October 3 with two games in Los Angeles followed by up to three games in Atlanta, with the series potentially extending to five games.