ATL vs LAD Prediction, Odds and MLB Picks for Today

The MLB playoffs really ramp up on Saturday, as we'll see all four Division Series matchups get underway across both leagues. The proceedings in the National League get started with the NL East-winning Atlanta Braves against the Los Angeles Dodgers. The two-time defending champions are heavy favorites at home in Game 1, and it's easy to see why. After all, we'll see Tarik Skubal (2.61 ERA) take the mound, and the former Cy Young winner has surrendered just nine earned runs over his last six outings. Skubal for his career has been very successful in the postseason, and the Dodgers have been excellent in the Division Series in Dave Roberts' tenure — including a 10-2 record in Game 1 of the NLDS since 2015.

As for the visitors, the Braves are coming off an intense 3-game series victory over their hated rivals in Philadelphia. Atlanta is short in the pitching department heading into Game 1, with veteran left-hander Brent Suter expected to get the start as an opener in this one, before ultimately leading into a bullpen game. With that in mind, it's hard to see the Braves slowing down an elite Dodgers lineup that is finally healthy after battling through numerous injuries to key players throughout the season. Look for Los Angeles to get out to a fast start and coast to a win by multiple runs in front of its home fans in Game 1.

Braves vs Dodgers prediction: Dodgers -1.5 (+100) available at time of publishing. Playable to -110.