Dodgers Favored Over Braves in NLDS Game 1, But Upset Alert Remains
Oddsmakers list the Los Angeles Dodgers as heavy favorites against the Atlanta Braves in Game 1 of the NLDS, but the Braves possess the potential to challenge the reigning champions.
The Atlanta Braves advanced to face the two-time defending champion Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 1 of the NLDS after outlasting the Philadelphia Phillies. Despite finishing the regular season with the fourth-best record in MLB, the Braves are considered underdogs against the Dodgers.
Los Angeles is listed as a -230 favorite to win the series and -217 to take Game 1 on Saturday. The Dodgers also hold +200 odds to win the World Series. While the Dodgers boast superior metrics across the board, including a stronger starting rotation and a deeper lineup, the betting lines present a high price against a formidable opponent.
The Braves, while not possessing the same top-to-bottom dominance as the Dodgers, are equipped with offensive threats capable of disrupting Los Angeles's postseason run. A lineup featuring Ronald Acuña Jr., Matt Olson, and Michael Harris II provides Atlanta with significant power potential. Six Braves players hit at least 19 home runs in the 2026 season.
A key factor for Atlanta could be facing Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Yamamoto has not pitched since September 23 and has made only three starts in the past month. While this could mean he is fresh, it also raises questions about his in-game rhythm.
Furthermore, the Braves enter the series having just completed a hard-fought Wild Card series, potentially giving them a competitive edge over the Dodgers, who secured a first-round bye and may have been in a more relaxed state. The Braves are considered a risky, yet potentially rewarding, bet for Game 1 at +177 odds.