Brief
Dodgers gear up for NLDS showdown with Braves at home
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts emphasizes togetherness as the team seeks a third straight World Series title.
By Felo News Desk · Published
The Los Angeles Dodgers will open a best‑of‑five National League Division Series against the Atlanta Braves at Dodger Stadium on Saturday at 1 p.m. PDT, according to the Los Angeles Times. The matchup follows the Braves' 6‑2 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies, which secured their NLDS berth.
During the Dodgers' bye week, the club held a series of activities designed to maintain focus and avoid added pressure. Manager Dave Roberts highlighted "togetherness" as a core theme, while players participated in wild‑card watch parties, batting practice and live pitching sessions. Utility player Kiké Hernández declared the team "the team to beat," and third baseman Max Muncy downplayed the prospect of a three‑peat, saying the club is concentrating on the immediate series rather than historic goals.
The Dodgers entered the postseason as back‑to‑back World Series champions and aim to become the first National League team to win three titles in a row. Their regular‑season record included a 100‑game milestone, and the team secured a first‑round bye by finishing in the top two of the National League, as reported in earlier Felo coverage.
Dodgers players practiced on the field while the scoreboard silently recorded the Phillies‑Braves game, underscoring the anticipation surrounding the upcoming series. The "2026 Postseason" decals were freshly painted along the baselines, and the team’s in‑trasquad scrimmage served as the final preparation before the opening game.
Key facts
- The Dodgers will host the Braves for the NLDS opener on Saturday at 1 p.m. PDT. (latimes.com)
- Dodgers manager Dave Roberts stressed "togetherness" during the team's preparation. (latimes.com)
- Utility player Kiké Hernández said the Dodgers are "the team to beat." (latimes.com)
- Third baseman Max Muncy said the club is not focusing on a three‑peat. (latimes.com)
- The Braves advanced to the NLDS with a 6‑2 win over the Phillies. (latimes.com)
Sources
- [1] latimes.com — originally reported as “‘We are the team to beat’: How the Dodgers are preparing for showdown with Braves”
