Braves and Diamondbacks Open Four-Game Series in Phoenix

Atlanta looks to continue hot start as Arizona aims to even record

Apr. 2, 2026 at 12:35pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Atlanta Braves (4-2) and Arizona Diamondbacks (3-3) open a four-game series tonight in Phoenix. The Braves are coming off a series win over the Athletics, while the Diamondbacks squeaked past the Tigers in their last game. Reynaldo Lopez takes the mound for Atlanta, while Ryne Nelson gets the start for Arizona.

Why it matters

This early-season matchup between the Braves and Diamondbacks features two teams with contrasting starts to the 2026 campaign. Atlanta has gotten off to a strong 4-2 beginning, while Arizona has hovered around .500. The outcome of this series could provide an early indication of which team will emerge as a contender in their respective divisions.

The details

The Braves are led by the hot-hitting Drake Baldwin, who is batting .318 with 3 home runs. Meanwhile, the Diamondbacks will counter with the promising young outfielder Corbin Carroll, who is hitting .333 with 7 hits in 6 games. On the mound, Reynaldo Lopez will look to build on his strong start for Atlanta, while Ryne Nelson aims to bounce back after allowing 2 home runs in his previous outing for Arizona.

  • The series opener is scheduled for Thursday, April 2, 2026 at 9:40PM EST.
  • The Braves and Diamondbacks will play a four-game set, with the final game on Sunday, April 5.

The players

Drake Baldwin

The Braves' sophomore catcher is off to a hot start, batting .318 with 3 home runs.

Corbin Carroll

The Diamondbacks' promising young outfielder is hitting .333 with 7 hits in 6 games.

Reynaldo Lopez

The Braves' starting pitcher has a 1.50 ERA and 0.83 WHIP through his first 6 innings this season.

Ryne Nelson

The Diamondbacks' starter has struggled early, allowing 2 home runs in his previous outing.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We've got to come out and play our game. These early-season matchups can set the tone for the rest of the year.”

— Braves Manager Brian Snitker

“It's going to be a tough series against a strong Braves team, but we're confident we can even our record if we play our brand of baseball.”

— Diamondbacks Manager Torey Lovullo

What’s next

The winner of this series will gain an early advantage in their respective division races. The Braves will look to continue their hot start, while the Diamondbacks aim to even their record and build momentum.

The takeaway

This early-season matchup between the Braves and Diamondbacks features two teams heading in opposite directions so far in 2026. The outcome of this series could provide an early indication of which team will emerge as a contender in their respective divisions.