Braves Seek Series Win Behind Jose Suarez

Braves turn to fifth starter Suarez to secure series victory over Athletics

Mar. 31, 2026 at 5:05pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting an abstract baseball game, with overlapping shapes and planes representing the dynamic action on the field.A cubist interpretation of the strategic chess match between the Braves' fifth starter and the Athletics' lineup.Atlanta Today

The Atlanta Braves will look to secure a series win over the Oakland Athletics on Tuesday, sending fifth starter Jose Suarez to the mound. Suarez was not expected to be in the Braves' rotation to start the season, but has been pressed into duty due to a rash of pitching injuries. The Braves will face off against Athletics right-hander Aaron Civale, hoping Suarez can limit the damage and hand the ball to ace Chris Sale for the series finale on Wednesday.

Why it matters

The Braves are off to a strong 3-1 start to the season, and a series win over the Athletics would keep them atop the NL East standings early on. Suarez's performance will be crucial, as the Braves look to avoid any potential offensive explosions from the Athletics' talented lineup.

The details

Jose Suarez was not expected to be in the Braves' starting rotation to begin the season, but has been pressed into duty due to injuries. He will face off against Athletics right-hander Aaron Civale, who has been a solid fifth starter the last couple of seasons. The Braves offense will look to capitalize on Civale's tendency to limit walks but not rack up high strikeout totals.

  • The game is scheduled for Tuesday, March 31st at 7:15 p.m. ET.
  • Chris Sale is scheduled to start the series finale for the Braves on Wednesday.

The players

Jose Suarez

A replacement-level pitcher who has been pressed into the Braves' starting rotation due to injuries.

Aaron Civale

The Athletics' right-hander, who has been a solid fifth starter the last couple of seasons, pitching primarily off a 90 mph cutter.

Nick Kurtz

A talented bat in the Athletics' lineup that the Braves will need to be wary of.

Bryce Elder

The Braves' starter who secured a victory in the series opener on Monday.

Chris Sale

The Braves' ace who is scheduled to start the series finale on Wednesday.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This game highlights the Braves' depth and resilience, as they turn to a fifth starter in Suarez to try and secure a series win over the Athletics. While Suarez may not be the most dominant pitcher, the Braves' strong offense and ace Chris Sale waiting in the wings give them confidence they can weather his start and come away with the series victory.