The Atlanta Braves and Arizona Diamondbacks are set to face off in the second game of their three-game series on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Chase Field in Phoenix, Arizona. First pitch is scheduled for 5:10 PM PT, and the game will be broadcast on regional sports networks and MLB.tv. The Braves took the series opener with a commanding 8-2 victory, and the Diamondbacks will look to bounce back and even the series.
Team Overview:
Atlanta Braves (11-14, 5th in NL East):
The Braves have struggled this season, sitting at the bottom of the NL East standings. However, their offense came alive in Game 1, with Austin Riley and Sean Murphy leading the charge. Riley has been a standout performer, hitting .350 over his last 10 games with four home runs and 12 RBIs. Atlanta’s pitching staff has been inconsistent, ranking 10th in the NL with a 4.29 ERA, but their bullpen showed resilience in the series opener. The Braves will aim to build on their momentum and secure another road win, despite their poor 3-11 road record this season.
Arizona Diamondbacks (14-12, 4th in NL West):
The Diamondbacks have had a solid start to the season but are coming off a disappointing loss in Game 1, where their pitching faltered and their offense struggled to capitalize on opportunities. Corbin Carroll has been the team’s most consistent hitter, with nine home runs and a 1.065 OPS this season. Arizona’s pitching staff has been a concern, ranking 21st in MLB with a 4.28 ERA. Merrill Kelly will take the mound in Game 2, and the Diamondbacks will look to their home-field advantage to turn the tide.
Probable Pitchers:
Atlanta Braves:
- Grant Holmes (2-1, 3.18 ERA): Holmes has been reliable for the Braves, with 25 strikeouts in 22 2/3 innings pitched. He’ll look to continue his strong form and keep Arizona’s hitters in check.
Arizona Diamondbacks:
- Merrill Kelly (3-1, 4.72 ERA): Kelly has been inconsistent this season but has shown the ability to go deep into games. He’ll need to limit walks and avoid big innings to give the Diamondbacks a chance to win.
Key Players to Watch:
Atlanta Braves:
- Austin Riley: Riley has been red-hot, leading the team in RBIs and providing power in the middle of the lineup.
- Sean Murphy: Murphy’s ability to drive in runs and manage the pitching staff makes him a key player for Atlanta.
- Grant Holmes: Holmes’ performance on the mound will be crucial for the Braves’ chances.
Arizona Diamondbacks:
- Corbin Carroll: Carroll’s combination of power and speed makes him a dynamic player to watch.
- Pavin Smith: Smith has been productive recently, hitting .367 over his last 10 games.
- Merrill Kelly: Kelly’s ability to navigate Atlanta’s lineup will be a deciding factor in the game.
Matchup Analysis:
Offense vs. Pitching:
The Braves’ offense will look to build on their strong performance in Game 1, while the Diamondbacks will need Kelly to deliver a quality start. Arizona’s lineup has the potential to break through against Holmes, but they’ll need to capitalize on scoring opportunities.
Momentum:
Atlanta enters this game with confidence after their dominant win, while Arizona will aim to regroup and leverage their home-field advantage.
Defense and Bullpen:
Both teams have solid defensive units, but the Braves’ bullpen showed resilience in Game 1. The Diamondbacks will need their relievers to step up and provide support for Kelly.
Game Odds
Atlanta Braves 9.5
Arizona Diamondbacks – 120
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, April 25, 2025
