Braves Open Season with Shutout Win Over Royals

Albies, Baldwin, and Harris homer as Sale, bullpen dominate in 6-0 victory

Mar. 28, 2026 at 10:50am

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The Atlanta Braves kicked off the 2026 season with a 6-0 win over the Kansas City Royals on Opening Day. Ozzie Albies, Drake Baldwin, and Michael Harris II each hit home runs to power the Braves' offense, while Chris Sale earned the win on the mound, allowing just three hits over six strong innings. The Braves' bullpen held the Royals scoreless the rest of the way.

Why it matters

The Braves' dominant Opening Day performance sets the tone for what they hope will be another successful season as they look to defend their NL East title. The team's young stars like Albies, Baldwin, and Harris showed their potential, while veteran pitcher Chris Sale proved he still has plenty left in the tank.

The details

In the season opener, the Braves recorded 11 hits and took advantage of the Royals' weaknesses. Chris Sale got the start for Atlanta and, despite some early struggles, settled in to allow just three hits over six innings with three walks and six strikeouts. The Braves' bullpen was also impressive, holding the Royals scoreless over the final three frames.

  • The Braves' 6-0 win over the Royals took place on Friday, March 28, 2026.
  • The teams will play the second game of the series tonight, March 29, at 7:15 ET.

The players

Ozzie Albies

The Braves' All-Star second baseman hit a home run in the team's Opening Day victory.

Drake Baldwin

The Braves' young catcher also homered in the win over the Royals.

Michael Harris II

The Braves' rising star outfielder contributed a home run to the team's offensive outburst.

Chris Sale

The veteran left-hander earned the win for the Braves, allowing just three hits over six innings.

Jason Heyward

The longtime MLB outfielder announced his retirement after a 16-year career.

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What they’re saying

“It was a great way to start the season. The guys came out swinging and our pitching was outstanding.”

— Brian Snitker, Braves Manager

What’s next

The Braves will look to clinch the series against the Royals with a win in the second game tonight at 7:15 ET.

The takeaway

The Braves' dominant Opening Day performance showcased the team's offensive firepower and pitching depth, providing an encouraging start to their quest to defend their NL East title. Meanwhile, the retirement of veteran outfielder Jason Heyward marks the end of an era for one of the league's most respected players.