Atlanta Braves vs Los Angeles Dodgers Picks and Predictions May 3rd 2025

Dominant Dodgers Seek Seventh Straight Win in Key Rematch vs. Braves

The Los Angeles Dodgers, riding high on a six-game winning streak, are set to continue their dominance over the Atlanta Braves in the second game of their high-stakes three-game series at Truist Park. Fresh off a tightly contested 2-1 victory in Friday’s opener, the Dodgers have now beaten the Braves in all four of their meetings this season, showcasing depth and composure despite roster challenges.

“Every win is big, but especially coming off an off day,” said shortstop Mookie Betts, who snapped his home run drought with a key blast in Friday’s game. “Coming into Truist Park, you know the Braves are going to be ready to roll.”

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Pitching Duel: Roki Sasaki vs. Spencer Schwellenbach

Roki Sasaki (Dodgers) – Finding His Rhythm

Making his seventh MLB start, Roki Sasaki (0-1, 3.55 ERA) continues to acclimate to the major league pace. In his last outing on April 26 against Pittsburgh, he lasted 5 2/3 innings, surrendering a season-high three runs, yet managed to keep the team in an 8-4 win. While Sasaki has yet to face the Braves, he brings electric stuff and international pedigree to this pivotal matchup.

The Dodgers are considering shortening the rest cycle for Sasaki and fellow countryman Yoshinobu Yamamoto, deviating from their typical six-day rest schedule.

“We did it with Yamamoto last year,” noted manager Dave Roberts. “It’s something we’re thinking about again given the number of games in a row.”

Spencer Schwellenbach (Braves) – Consistency and Control

On the mound for Atlanta, Spencer Schwellenbach (1-2, 2.87 ERA) looks to secure his first win since April 4. Despite a tough-luck loss to Arizona in his last start—where he allowed four runs (three earned) over six innings—his command remains a strength. Schwellenbach has given up just six walks in 37 2/3 innings, with 33 strikeouts and only 31 hits allowed.

Although he hasn’t faced the Dodgers this season, Schwellenbach won his only previous outing against them in 2024, going six innings and allowing two runs in a 6-2 victory.

“At the end of the day, you’ve got to learn and move forward,” Schwellenbach said. “Make sure the next one’s better.”

Key Player Updates and Storylines

• Mookie Betts ended his homerless streak dating back to April 14 with a pivotal two-hit night, including his first home run in nearly three weeks.
• Matt Olson remained red-hot for Atlanta, belting his fifth homer and pushing his on-base streak to 19 games.
• The Dodgers played without versatile infielder Tommy Edman, who is day-to-day after spraining his right ankle earlier in the week.

Dodgers’ Rotation Under Pressure

Injuries to Blake Snell and Tyler Glasnow, along with Clayton Kershaw’s continued recovery from offseason surgery, have left the Dodgers navigating a makeshift rotation. Sasaki and Yamamoto have stepped up, but Roberts may need to rely on shorter rest periods to manage the stretch of 10 games in a row without a break. Don’t miss out on our Daily Baseball Picks from MLB Expert Handicappers

What to Watch For

• Will Sasaki handle the pressure of pitching against a playoff-caliber offense like Atlanta’s?
• Can Schwellenbach’s precise command neutralize a deep Dodgers lineup?
• How will the Dodgers’ makeshift rotation fare under continued strain?

Conclusion

Saturday’s matchup between the Dodgers and Braves is more than just another game—it’s a litmus test for playoff readiness. The Dodgers are proving they can win under pressure and without their full pitching arsenal. Meanwhile, the Braves are looking to avoid being swept in the season series and reverse the momentum at home. With two talented right-handers squaring off, this one promises to be a must-watch showdown.