Braves Take Series from Angels, Start Season 8-5

Atlanta squad heads home after 13-game stretch to open the year

Apr. 9, 2026 at 12:11am

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A dynamic, abstract painting in neon colors depicting the frenetic action of a baseball game, with players' forms blending into a vibrant, energetic composition.The Braves' high-octane offense and resilient pitching propel the team to an 8-5 start, setting the stage for an exciting home series against the Guardians.Atlanta Today

The Atlanta Braves defeated the Los Angeles Angels 8-2 on Wednesday, capping a 13-game stretch to open the season in which the team went 8-5. The Braves took the series from the Angels and will now enjoy an off day before hosting the Guardians for a three-game set starting Friday.

Why it matters

The Braves' strong start to the season, including a series win over the Angels, positions them well in the early going of the 2026 campaign. After playing 13 games in 13 days to begin the year, the team will now get a much-needed off day before returning home to face another tough opponent in the Guardians.

The details

In Wednesday's series-clinching win, Braves pitcher Grant Holmes recovered from an early struggle to lead his team to victory. The Braves' offense also played a key role, helping the team emerge from the grueling 13-game stretch with an 8-5 record.

  • The Braves played 13 games in 13 days to open the 2026 season.
  • The team will enjoy an off day on Thursday before hosting the Guardians for a three-game series starting on Friday.

The players

Grant Holmes

The Braves' starting pitcher who recovered from an early struggle to lead his team to victory on Wednesday.

Atlanta Braves

The Major League Baseball team that took the series from the Angels and now holds an 8-5 record to start the 2026 season.

Los Angeles Angels

The opposing team that the Braves defeated 8-2 on Wednesday to win the series.

Cleveland Guardians

The next opponent the Braves will face, hosting them for a three-game series starting on Friday.

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What’s next

The Braves will host the Guardians for a three-game series starting on Friday after enjoying an off day on Thursday.

The takeaway

The Braves' strong start to the season, including a series win over the Angels, has them well-positioned heading into their next matchup against the Guardians. The team's ability to emerge from a grueling 13-game stretch to open the year with an 8-5 record is an encouraging sign for their playoff aspirations.