Atlanta Braves open 2026 season at home against Kansas City Royals

Braves celebrate 60 years in Atlanta with special pregame festivities at Truist Park

Mar. 27, 2026 at 9:19am

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The Atlanta Braves will host the Kansas City Royals for their 2026 home opener at Truist Park. This marks the first time the Braves have opened the season at home since 2022. The team will celebrate 60 years of Braves baseball in Atlanta with special pregame events, including a Braves Walk parade and an on-field presentation. Fans can expect new food options, giveaways, and the debut of the Launching Pad, a new left field experience honoring the team's home run history.

Why it matters

The Braves' home opener is always a highly anticipated event, kicking off a new season of baseball in Atlanta. This year's opener holds added significance as the team celebrates 60 years since moving to the city, providing an opportunity to reflect on the franchise's rich history and connection to the community.

The details

The Braves will take the field against the Royals with new manager Walt Weiss leading the team. Pregame festivities will include a Braves Walk parade at 4 p.m. for fans to line the streets of The Battery Atlanta, followed by a special on-field presentation at 6:40 p.m. to commemorate the 60th anniversary. All fans in attendance will receive a magnetic 2026 schedule and a rally towel. The game itself will feature Chris Sale on the mound for the Braves, with first pitch set for 7:15 p.m.

  • The Braves Walk parade will take place at 4 p.m. on Opening Day.
  • The special on-field 60th anniversary presentation will occur at 6:40 p.m. on Opening Day.
  • First pitch between the Braves and Royals is scheduled for 7:15 p.m. on Opening Day.

The players

Walt Weiss

The new manager of the Atlanta Braves, taking over the team for the 2026 season.

Chris Sale

The starting pitcher for the Atlanta Braves on Opening Day.

Atlanta Braves

The professional baseball team celebrating 60 years since moving to Atlanta.

Kansas City Royals

The opposing team the Braves will face on Opening Day at Truist Park.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The Braves and Royals will continue their opening series at Truist Park over the weekend, with games on Saturday and Sunday.

The takeaway

The Braves' home opener marks the start of a new era for the franchise, as they look to build on their storied history in Atlanta and provide an exciting gameday experience for fans at the newly renovated Truist Park.