Braves Repeat Lineup in Series Opener Against Diamondbacks

Atlanta looks to continue success against Arizona pitcher Ryne Nelson

Apr. 2, 2026 at 10:07pm

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A fractured, geometric painting in the style of Pablo Picasso, with sharp overlapping planes of navy blue, Sedona red, and Sonoran sand colors representing the baseball action between the Atlanta Braves and Arizona Diamondbacks.A cubist interpretation of the strategic chess match between the Braves and Diamondbacks as they vie for divisional positioning in the early MLB season.Phoenix Today

For the third straight game, Atlanta Braves manager Walt Weiss has penciled in the same starting lineup as they open a four-game series against the Arizona Diamondbacks in Phoenix. The Braves are hoping to see some offensive production from players like birthday boy Austin Riley, while the Diamondbacks will counter with righty Ryne Nelson on the mound.

Why it matters

The Braves are looking to build on their recent success, having swept the Detroit Tigers in their previous series. Meanwhile, the Diamondbacks are hoping to bounce back after being swept by the Los Angeles Dodgers. This series could provide an opportunity for both teams to gain ground in their respective divisions.

The details

The Diamondbacks will send Ryne Nelson to the mound, who the Braves have had success against in the past. Atlanta's left-handed hitters, including Matt Olson and Michael Harris II, have homered off Nelson before. The Diamondbacks have made some notable roster moves, signing first baseman Carlos Santana to a 1-year deal and acquiring star third baseman Nolan Arenado, who will bat sixth in the lineup.

  • The Braves and Diamondbacks are opening a 4-game series on April 2, 2026.
  • The Braves have used the same starting lineup for the third straight game.

The players

Walt Weiss

The manager of the Atlanta Braves.

Ryne Nelson

The starting pitcher for the Arizona Diamondbacks in the series opener.

Austin Riley

The Atlanta Braves third baseman, who is celebrating his 29th birthday.

Carlos Santana

The first baseman for the Arizona Diamondbacks, signed to a 1-year deal in February.

Nolan Arenado

The star third baseman who was recently acquired by the Arizona Diamondbacks and will bat sixth in the lineup.

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What’s next

The Braves will look to continue their success against Ryne Nelson, while the Diamondbacks will hope their new additions like Nolan Arenado can provide a spark offensively.

The takeaway

This series between the Braves and Diamondbacks features two teams looking to gain ground in their respective divisions. The Braves' consistent lineup and the Diamondbacks' roster moves will be key storylines to follow as the teams battle it out on the field.