Braves, Diamondbacks Set for Series Opener in Phoenix

PHOENIX (Interstat) — The Atlanta Braves and Arizona Diamondbacks open a three-game series at Chase Field on Friday night, with both clubs looking to build on strong early-season pitching.

The Braves (4-2) arrive after taking three of four from the Athletics, capped by a 5-1 victory Wednesday. Lefty Chris Sale was dominant in that win, allowing one run on one hit over six innings with three strikeouts. In two starts this season, Sale has a 0.75 ERA with nine strikeouts in 12 innings.

Atlanta will send right-hander Grant Holmes (0-1, ERA N/A) to the mound. Holmes took the loss in his first appearance of the season.

The Diamondbacks (3-3) are coming off a 1-0 victory over Detroit on Wednesday, powered by a strong start from Zac Gallen. The right-hander tossed six scoreless innings, allowing four hits. Gallen’s season has been a contrast, however, following a rough outing against the Los Angeles Dodgers on March 26 where he surrendered four runs in four innings.

Arizona will counter with left-hander Eduardo Rodriguez (0-0, ERA N/A), making his first start of 2026.

The Braves won a pitchers’ duel between the teams on Thursday, 1-0. Interstat’s game simulator projects another close contest, forecasting a 4-3 Atlanta victory. However, the same outlet’s ELO system gives Arizona a slight 52.7% probability to win. Atlanta is listed as a -1.5 run favorite, with an over/under of 9 runs.

After this series, the Braves continue a road trip with three games against the Los Angeles Angels. The Diamondbacks will embark on a lengthy East Coast trip, facing the New York Mets, Philadelphia Phillies and Baltimore Orioles.