The Los Angeles Dodgers are set to host the Atlanta Braves to begin the National League Division Series on Saturday. The Braves clinched a spot in the NLDS after defeating the Philadelphia Phillies 2-1 in their three-game NL Wild Card Series. So, will Atlanta be able to upset Los Angeles, or will the Dodgers get the job done amid their pursuit of a third consecutive World Series championship?
It should be a competitive series. Los Angeles always has confidence in the postseason. The Dodgers are also well-rested. However, the Braves currently hold momentum after defeating the Phillies.
With all of that being said, here are three bold predictions for the Braves and Dodgers NLDS clash.
Braves will win Game 1
Look for the momentum to carry into Game 1. The Braves should be able to jump out to an early lead and never look back. The Dodgers, who are seemingly never out of a game, will surely make things interesting. However, the prediction here is that Atlanta will find a way to win.
Earning at least one victory on the road in LA to begin the series will be pivotal. For those who may not be aware, the first two games will be played in LA before the series returns to Atlanta for Game 3 and a potential Game 4. If Game 5 is necessary, the series will shift back to Southern California.
The Braves understand how important Game 1 is, and they will be ready to utilize their momentum and earn the win.
Dodgers' unsung hero leads the way
The Dodgers have no shortage of star-power on their roster. In fact, it's one of the biggest complaints about them from fans of other teams. While the stars may perform well in this series, the prediction here is that an unsung hero will step up and have a huge series to lead Los Angeles.
Article Continues BelowA number of candidates could step up, but my guess is that it will be Tommy Edman. He has enjoyed some clutch postseason moments in the past. Of course, Edman won the National League Championship Series MVP with the Dodgers in 2024. He also has plenty of experience, having played in 47 postseason contests.
Edman is a switch-hitter, meaning he does not have to be a platoon player. Dave Roberts can have Edman in any lineup regardless of who is pitching for the Braves. He should receive opportunities to make an impact.
If it is not Edman, then another unsung hero will make an impact for the Dodgers. Look for Tommy Edman to have a big series, though.
Dodgers narrowly win NLDS in five games
The Dodgers winning a playoff series is not exactly a bold prediction. With that being said, the prediction is that the Braves will give the Dodgers all they can handle.
In the end, it is difficult to envision this incredibly deep Los Angeles ball club losing in the NLDS. Could it happen? Sure, anything can happen in baseball. I still believe the Dodgers will find a way to take care of business, however.
Regardless, look for Atlanta to play quality baseball and give LA a true challenge. Advancing to the NLCS will prove to be difficult for this Dodgers ball club. In fact, the NLDS could end up being one of the better series of the entire postseason.