Atlanta Braves vs Los Angeles Dodgers Pick & Prediction for Friday May 8 2026

By: Ricky Mackenzie Published 05/08/2026, 01:55 AM ET

Braves Preview

Atlanta enters this series after a disappointing 3-1 loss in Seattle, but the Braves are still one of the hottest clubs in baseball with seven wins in their last ten games and a 26-12 record overall. Get our free MLB Picks all season long! Chris Sale takes the mound carrying a dominant 6-1 record with a 2.14 ERA, continuing to look like one of the best starters in the National League through the opening month.

Dodgers Preview

Los Angeles responded in a huge way last game, crushing Houston 12-2 behind another explosive offensive performance. The Dodgers sit at 23-14 and remain dangerous from top to bottom in the lineup, though their recent stretch has been more inconsistent than expected. Emmet Sheehan gets the start with a 2-1 record, but his 5.23 ERA shows opponents have created plenty of hard contact.

Dodgers vs Braves Pick

The biggest edge here belongs to Atlanta on the mound. Sale has been dominant at limiting baserunners and missing bats, while Sheehan has struggled to pitch deep into games consistently. Los Angeles can still change a game quickly with its offense, especially at home, but Atlanta has the more reliable overall matchup entering Friday night.

Oddsmakers still lean slightly toward the Dodgers at home, listing Los Angeles around -120 despite the pitching disadvantage. The total sits at 8.5, which feels fair considering both lineups are capable of producing runs in a hurry. If Sale controls the pace early, Atlanta should be in position to take over late.

This feels like a statement opportunity for the Braves against another National League contender. Sale has been far more trustworthy than Sheehan, and Atlanta’s lineup should eventually break through against the Dodgers bullpen. Expect a competitive game early before the Braves pull away in the middle innings. Final Score Prediction, Atlanta Braves win 4-1.

Never Tried Picks and Parlays? Now Is Your Chance

Get your first daily picks package for ONLY $1 using coupon code BUCK
If the pick loses, we credit your account with 3 Flex Picks
If the pick wins, we still give you 1 Flex Pick on the house
Win or lose, you walk away ahead. One dollar. No catch.

Min. Deposit $5

Cashable No

Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-MY-RESET (Available in the US) 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY) 1-800-327-5050 (MA), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-981-0023 (PR). 21+ only. Please Gamble Responsibly. See BetMGM.com for Terms. First Bet Offer for new customers only (if applicable). Subject to eligibility requirements. Bonus bets are non-withdrawable. In partnership with Kansas Crossing Casino and Hotel. Promotional offers not available in Mississippi, New York, Ontario, or Puerto Rico.

Min. Deposit $5

Wagering 1x Deposit

Cashable No

Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-MY-RESET. Call 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT). Hope is here. GamblingHelplineMA.org or call (800) 327-5050 for 24/7 support (MA). Visit mdgamblinghelp.org (MD). Call 1-877-8HOPE-NY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY). 21+ (18+ DC, KY, WV). Void where prohibited. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.gamblersanonymous.org . Must be 21+ in NJ, PA, MI, or WV. $10 first deposit req. Bonus issued as non-withdrawable bonus spins which expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. Contact 1-877-770-7867 (LA).

Min. Deposit $5

Odds Requirements -500

Cashable No

GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-MY-RESET, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD), 1-800-981-0023 (PR). 21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/PR/WY). Void in NH/OR/ONT/PR. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino (KS). Pass-thru of per wager tax may apply in IL. 1 per new DraftKings customer. $5+ first-time bet req. Max. $100 issued as non-withdrawable Bonus Bets that expire in 7 days (168 hours). Stake removed from payout. Terms: Promos | DraftKings Sportsbook . Ends 5/31/26 at 11:59 PM ET.