Braves Secure Postseason Spot and Eye NL East Title

Atlanta clinched a postseason berth after defeating the Astros on Friday and will now focus on securing the National League East division title, which could be decided as early as Sunday. The Braves are positioned as the NL's No. 3 seed but remain within striking distance of the No. 2 seed, which would allow them to bypass the Wild Card Series and advance directly to the Division Series.

If the team participates in the best-of-three Wild Card Series beginning Sept. 29, the roster may feature pinch-runner Keirsey, backup outfielder Hicklen and left-handed specialist Dubón while Lane Thomas recovers from a strained intercostal muscle. Kim could start at shortstop, and a third catcher—likely a Triple-A call-up—may be added alongside designated hitter Drake Baldwin. Depending on the opponent, Holmes could start Game 3 instead of Pérez, and Smith-Shawver may be used in short-relief roles. Suarez's availability remains uncertain after elbow issues surfaced in June.

The Braves hold the tiebreaker over the Dodgers but trail them by four games for the second NL first-round bye. As the No. 3 seed, they would host the No. 6 seed in the Wild Card Series at Truist Park. The Padres currently occupy the No. 6 seed, though the Phillies and Cubs share the same record, and the Diamondbacks are still in contention for a Wild Card spot.

Rotation plans project Chris Sale starting Game 1, with Tyler Mahle slated for Game 2. The choice between Pérez and Holmes for a potential Game 3 start will depend on the opponent. The Braves' recent postseason record includes NLDS exits in 2018 and 2019, an NLCS appearance in 2020, and no series victories since their 2021 World Series win.