Acuña restricted to DH in NLDS Game 3 with right knee concern
The Braves star will not play the outfield as Atlanta hosts Game 3, raising questions about his availability and impact in the series.

Ronald Acuña Jr. is dealing with a right knee issue that has limited him to designated hitter duties for NLDS Game 3 in Atlanta. He will not take the field defensively, a notable restriction for one of the game's top players. The move suggests the Braves are managing his health carefully during the postseason. His offensive availability is retained, but his defensive absence is a meaningful development.
More on the Braves wire.

Bailey Falter Elects Minor League Free Agency After Braves Stint
The veteran left-hander, acquired at the deadline, opts out and enters the open market heading into the 2027 offseason.

Sale's Playoff Workload Raises Red Flags After Season-Long Load Management
The Braves carefully limited Sale to 27 starts and extra rest all year, but have already used him in relief during a three-game Wild Card series.

Sale Skips NLDS Game 2 Due to Less-Than-Full Strength
Atlanta held Sale back from Game 2, citing concerns about his health after a recent relief appearance, with manager Weiss confirming he'll start Game 3.

Braves will use bullpen game for NLDS Game 2 instead of starting Sale on short rest
Atlanta will deploy a bullpen game against the Dodgers in NLDS Game 2, per MLB.com's Mark Bowman, with Chris Sale's next start pointing toward Game 3.

Braves Make Three Roster Swaps for NLDS vs. Dodgers
Atlanta bolsters its pitching depth and adds a right-handed bat in Lane Thomas for the NLDS after a taxing Wild Card series vs. Philadelphia.

Braves tab Dodd as NLDS Game 1 starter vs. Dodgers
Atlanta turns to Dodd to open the NLDS against Los Angeles, a significant pitching choice for the postseason.
