MLB Game Preview: San Francisco Giants (52-48) vs. Atlanta Braves (43-55)

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Atlanta Braves logo

Venue: Truist Park, Atlanta, GA
First Pitch: 7:15 PM ET
Watch Live: FDSSO, NBCS-BA, MLB.TV

Both teams are looking to reverse recent skids — the Giants have lost five straight, while the Braves have dropped two in a row and sit well below preseason expectations.

San Francisco swept Atlanta in their previous three-game series back in June, with each game decided by a single run. The Braves now seek revenge at home, where they’ve gone 22–24 this season. With the trade deadline looming, this series could determine whether either team becomes a buyer or seller.

Starting Pitchers – July 21, 2025

TeamPitcherRecordERAWHIPK/9
BravesBryce Elder (RHP)3–65.651.517.8
GiantsHayden Birdsong (RHP)4–34.111.269.3
  • Bryce Elder has struggled at home, posting a 6.69 ERA and allowing a .314 AVG in 37.2 IP at Truist Park. He’s allowed 4+ earned runs in 4 of his last 5 starts.
  • Hayden Birdsong has held opponents to a .239 AVG and allowed just 1 ER in his last start vs. Oakland. He pitched 4.1 innings with 5 K against Atlanta earlier this season.

Players to Watch

San Francisco Giants

  • Rafael Devers: 17 HR, 68 RBI; ranks 12th in MLB in RBI
  • Jung Hoo Lee: .249 AVG, 20 doubles, 8 triples, 6 HR
  • Heliot Ramos: .267 AVG; team leader in batting average
  • Willy Adames: 14 HR, 45 walks; .222 AVG

Atlanta Braves

  • Matt Olson: 18 HR, 64 RBI; team leader in both categories
  • Ronald Acuña Jr.: .326 AVG, 13 HR, 34 walks; elite OBP and slugging
  • Ozzie Albies: 9 HR, 12 doubles; .221 AVG
  • Marcell Ozuna: 13 HR, 64 walks; currently benched amid trade rumors

Team Comparison – Key Stats

CategoryGiantsBraves
Batting Avg.230 (27th MLB).243 (20th MLB)
Slugging %.370 (27th MLB).391 (20th MLB)
Home Runs92 (25th MLB)110 (14th MLB)
Runs/Game4.14.1
Team ERA3.61 (4th MLB)3.95 (16th MLB)
Last 10 Games4–64–6

San Francisco’s pitching has been more consistent, while Atlanta’s offense has underperformed despite star power. Both teams average just over 4 runs per game, making pitching and bullpen depth key.

Game Odds

San Francisco Giants      9

Atlanta Braves                  – 131

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Sunday, July 20, 2025