Dodgers and Braves Finalize NLDS Rosters Amid Pitching Depth Concerns

Key points

• Dodgers and Braves announced their NLDS rosters on October 3, 2026, ahead of Game 1 at Dodger Stadium.
• The Dodgers included Edwin Diaz and Kris Bubic, prioritizing veteran experience over recent consistency, while leaving out Justin Wrobleski and Jack Dreyer.
• The Braves added AJ Smith-Shawver, JR Ritchie, and Lane Thomas, replacing Dominic Smith, DaShawn Keirsey Jr., and Luke Williams to increase pitching depth.
• Tarik Skubal is set to start for the Dodgers, while the Braves will use a bullpen game strategy with Dylan Dodd opening, as ace Chris Sale is unavailable.
• The Dodgers have a significant advantage in rotation depth, but the Braves have won five of six regular-season meetings against them.
• Blake Treinen, who was placed on the 15-day IL with a shoulder issue, may return later in the playoffs if the Dodgers advance.

Background

The Dodgers and Braves have a history of intense matchups, with the Braves dominating the regular season by winning five of six meetings. The Dodgers are seeking a third consecutive World Series title, while the Braves aim to prove their regular-season success can translate to the postseason. The series is expected to be a battle of attrition, with the Dodgers holding a significant advantage in rotation depth and managerial experience, while the Braves possess superior power and defensive metrics. The series opener is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. local time, coinciding with a severe heat wave that may push temperatures to 108 degrees.

How outlets are covering it

MLB Trade Rumors emphasizes the Dodgers' decision to prioritize veteran experience in Edwin Diaz and Kris Bubic over recent performers, noting the added risk in opting for pitchers who have been less consistently healthy and productive over the season. The outlet also highlights the Braves' need for extra pitching depth after a grueling Wild Card series, with AJ Smith-Shawver and JR Ritchie added to the roster. NBC Sports, in a separate article, focuses on Aroldis Chapman's physical and option vesting for 2027, but does not provide specific details on the NLDS rosters. The primary source provides a more detailed analysis of the roster decisions, while the secondary source offers a broader context of the MLB landscape.

Why it matters

The NLDS rosters will determine the outcome of the series, with the Dodgers holding a significant advantage in rotation depth and managerial experience. The Braves' ability to overcome the Dodgers' pitching depth and offensive consistency will be crucial. The series is expected to be a battle of attrition, with the Dodgers holding a significant advantage in rotation depth, but the Braves have won five of six regular-season meetings against them. The outcome of the series will determine which team advances to the National League Championship Series, with the Dodgers seeking a third consecutive World Series title and the Braves aiming to prove their regular-season success can translate to the postseason.

What to watch

Game 1 of the NLDS is scheduled for Saturday, October 3, 2026, at Dodger Stadium. Tarik Skubal will start for the Dodgers, while the Braves will use a bullpen game strategy with Dylan Dodd opening. The series is expected to be a battle of attrition, with the Dodgers holding a significant advantage in rotation depth. The outcome of the series will determine which team advances to the National League Championship Series, with the Dodgers seeking a third consecutive World Series title and the Braves aiming to prove their regular-season success can translate to the postseason.