Max Muncy hit a solo home run and starting pitcher Tarik Skubal surrendered just one run over six innings as the Los Angeles Dodgers secured a victory against the Atlanta Braves, setting up the next game of the series for Sunday at 8:00 p.m. local time.
Skubal and Muncy Lead Los Angeles Past Atlanta
Playing in extreme heat that reached 38 degrees Celsius at the game’s start, the Dodgers leaned on their pitching staff and timely power to outlast the Braves. Tarik Skubal, acquired by Los Angeles just before the August 3 trade deadline from the Detroit Tigers, struck out seven batters while allowing only two hits and two walks in six frames. It marked the first time in his career that the left-hander pitched a home postseason game as a starter. Teammate Teoscar Hernández sparked the offense early with a solo home run in the fourth inning, setting the tone for a lineup that limited Atlanta to just four hits on the night.
Manager Dave Roberts praised his starter’s endurance under oppressive weather conditions. “Passing six innings in those conditions was super,” Roberts said, adding that the relief corps performed well in closing out the victory.
Braves Home Runs Test Dodgers Bullpen
While the Dodgers built their lead through disciplined pitching and long balls, Atlanta mounted a late push that tested the Los Angeles bullpen. Sean Murphy and Ozzie Albies each connected for home runs for the Braves in losing efforts. Albies generated late tension in the ninth inning by driving a two-run home run off Dodgers reliever Tanner Scott. With a runner on base and the tying run potentially at the plate, relief pitcher Evan Phillips stepped in to secure the final out and preserve the win.
Shohei Ohtani contributed a single for Los Angeles in the first inning, though he was largely kept in check by Atlanta’s pitching thereafter. Outfielder Tucker recorded diminished offensive numbers during the 2026 campaign following several standout seasons primarily with the Houston Astros.
Defending World Champions Continue Postseason Run
The Dodgers enter this series carrying the momentum of back-to-back World Series titles. Los Angeles claimed the championship two years running, defeating the New York Yankees in five games before capturing a seven-game series against the Toronto Blue Jays.
Sunday Night Series Continuation
The Dodgers host the Braves again on Sunday at 8:00 p.m.
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