Marlins Look to Bounce Back Against Braves in Key NL East Matchup

Miami and Atlanta face off in a 3-game series as both teams aim to gain ground in the division standings.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 4:04am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a baseball game in motion, with overlapping shapes and planes of teal, orange, navy, and red, capturing the energy and intensity of the matchup between the two teams.The Marlins and Braves square off in a pivotal NL East clash, with both teams looking to gain ground in the division standings.Today in Miami

The Miami Marlins will travel to Atlanta to take on the Braves in a crucial 3-game NL East series. The Marlins are looking to bounce back after a recent slump, while the Braves hope to continue their strong start to the season at home. Both teams will be missing key players due to injuries, setting the stage for an intriguing matchup between these divisional rivals.

Why it matters

This series could have major implications for the NL East race, as the Marlins and Braves are both vying for position in a competitive division. A strong showing by either team could provide momentum heading into the summer months.

The details

The Marlins will send Eury Pérez, Max Meyer, and Chris Paddack to the mound against the Braves' Grant Holmes, Reynaldo López, and Bryce Elder. Miami's offense has been productive, ranking 8th in MLB with a 106 wRC+, but the team has struggled on the road (1-5 record). The Braves, meanwhile, boast the 4th-best wRC+ in baseball at 115 and have been tough to beat at home (6-3 record).

  • The series opener is scheduled for Monday, April 13, 2026.
  • Game 2 will take place on Tuesday, April 14, 2026.
  • The series finale is set for Wednesday, April 15, 2026.

The players

Eury Pérez

The Marlins' 23-year-old right-handed starting pitcher, who will take the mound in the series opener.

Grant Holmes

The Braves' 27-year-old right-handed starting pitcher, who will face Pérez in the series opener.

Max Meyer

The Marlins' 25-year-old right-handed starting pitcher, who will start Game 2 of the series.

Reynaldo López

The Braves' 29-year-old right-handed starting pitcher, who will oppose Meyer in Game 2.

Chris Paddack

The Marlins' 27-year-old right-handed starting pitcher, who will take the mound in the series finale.

Bryce Elder

The Braves' 24-year-old right-handed starting pitcher, who will face Paddack in the series finale.

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What they’re saying

“We know the Braves are a tough team, but we're ready to compete and try to gain some ground in the division.”

— Don Mattingly, Marlins Manager

“Our pitching staff has been solid, and we're hoping to continue that success against a talented Marlins lineup.”

— Brian Snitker, Braves Manager

What’s next

The Marlins and Braves will continue their NL East rivalry with a 3-game series in Miami from May 10-12.

The takeaway

This series between the Marlins and Braves could have a significant impact on the NL East standings, as both teams look to establish themselves as contenders early in the season. The matchup of talented young pitchers on the mound adds an exciting element to the series.