Braves Favored in Series Opener Against Angels

Atlanta looks to bounce back from two straight losses as they visit Los Angeles for the start of an interleague matchup.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 11:26am

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The Atlanta Braves (6-4) head to Anaheim to take on the Los Angeles Angels (5-5) in the opener of a three-game series on Monday night. The Braves, who have the best team ERA in the matchup, will send ace Chris Sale to the mound against Angels right-hander José Soriano.

Why it matters

This game features a clash between two teams heading in different directions. The Braves have the superior overall roster and offensive firepower, but the Angels have won two straight and are looking to build momentum at home against one of the National League's top teams.

The details

Atlanta has dropped two straight games but still owns a +27 run differential, the best in this matchup. The Angels' offense has struggled, hitting just .204 as a team, but Soriano has been impressive on the mound with a 0.00 ERA and 11 strikeouts in 12 innings. If the Angels' lineup, which could be missing Mike Trout, can't support Soriano, the Braves may pull away late.

  • The game is scheduled for Monday, April 6, 2026 at 9:38 p.m. ET.
  • The Braves have lost two straight games heading into this series.

The players

Chris Sale

The Braves' ace left-hander has a 0.75 ERA and 0.58 WHIP through his first 12 innings pitched this season.

José Soriano

The Angels' right-hander has yet to allow a run in his first 12 innings, striking out 11 batters.

Mike Trout

The Angels' superstar outfielder is listed as day-to-day and may not be in the starting lineup for this game.

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What they’re saying

“We must find a way to get the bats going against a tough pitcher like Sale. Our pitching has kept us in games, but we need more production from the lineup.”

— Joe Maddon, Angels Manager

“The last two losses were tough, but we know we have the talent to bounce back. Chris is throwing the ball great, and we're confident we can get the offense going against Soriano.”

— Brian Snitker, Braves Manager

What’s next

The Braves and Angels will continue their three-game series on Tuesday and Wednesday. The winner of Monday's game will have the opportunity to take an early series lead.

The takeaway

This matchup pits two teams heading in opposite directions, with the Braves looking to bounce back from consecutive losses and the Angels hoping to build on their recent momentum. The pitching duel between Sale and Soriano should make for an intriguing opener, but the Braves' superior offensive firepower may ultimately prove to be the difference.