Braves Look Unstoppable at the Start of 2026 Season

The Atlanta Braves entered the 2026 season with quiet expectations and have spent the first six weeks loudly exceeding them. As of May, they sit atop the National League East with a winning percentage that would translate to a 105-win pace — a number this organization hasn't sniffed since the heady run of 2023.

A lineup that doesn't quit

Ronald Acuña Jr. looks fully recovered from his knee surgery, and Matt Olson is on a tear that has him in the early MVP conversation. The Braves are leading the league in runs scored, OPS, and walks drawn — a sign that the offensive philosophy under hitting coach Tim Hyers is sticking.

What's been most encouraging is the depth. Even with Austin Riley missing time in April, the lineup has held. Rookie outfielder Carlos Mendoza has slotted in nicely, slashing .287/.351/.498 in his first 30 games.

The rotation question, mostly answered

Spencer Strider's return from internal brace surgery was the biggest preseason story, and through eight starts he has not just been back — he's been better. His slider is biting again and his command has improved. Behind him, Chris Sale continues to defy his age, and rookie left-hander Hurston Waldrep has been the surprise of the spring.

The bullpen, long the team's vulnerability, has stabilized. Raisel Iglesias is closing again, A.J. Minter is healthy, and the bridge from the 6th inning forward feels manageable for the first time in three seasons.

What could go wrong?

It's May. A lot. The NL East still has the Phillies, the Mets are spending, and the Marlins have improved on paper. The Braves have the talent, but baseball is cruel, and 162 games leave plenty of room for the trapdoor to open.

For now, though, Pace's Braves fans are eating well. Truist Park is loud again, the magic-number talk has already started among the brave (no pun intended), and the team that defined Atlanta sports in the early 2020s looks ready to remind everyone why.