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The Atlanta Falcons delivered a commanding performance on Sunday, September 14, 2025, defeating the Minnesota Vikings 22-6 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

The Falcons’ dominant display on both sides of the ball thrilled the home crowd and showcased their potential as a force in the NFC South.

Falcons Beat the Vikings in Minnesota

The Falcons (1-0) set the tone early, with quarterback Kirk Cousins orchestrating a balanced offensive attack. Cousins, facing his former team, completed 24 of 32 passes for 245 yards and two touchdowns, displaying poise and precision. His connection with wide receiver Drake London proved pivotal, as London hauled in seven receptions for 98 yards, including a 12-yard touchdown in the second quarter that gave Atlanta a lead they would never relinquish.

Running back Bijan Robinson also shone, rushing for 112 yards on 18 carries and adding a 6-yard touchdown run in the third quarter. The Falcons’ ground game overwhelmed Minnesota’s defense, amassing 165 total rushing yards and controlling the clock with nearly 34 minutes of possession.

Defensively, Atlanta was relentless, stifling the Vikings’ offense and limiting them to just two field goals. Safety Jessie Bates III led the charge with an interception and five tackles, while linebacker Kaden Elliss recorded a sack and eight tackles.

The Falcons’ pass rush harassed Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold all game, registering three sacks and forcing multiple hurried throws. Minnesota struggled to find rhythm, managing only 189 total yards and converting just 3 of 11 third-down attempts.

“We came out with a purpose today,” said Falcons head coach Raheem Morris. “Our guys executed the game plan, and it’s a great way to start the season. Kirk was phenomenal, and our defense played with an edge.”

The Vikings (0-1) couldn’t capitalize on their opportunities, with star receiver Justin Jefferson held to four catches for 59 yards. Minnesota’s lone points came from field goals in the first and fourth quarters, as their offense failed to reach the end zone.

Kicker Younghoe Koo was perfect for Atlanta, nailing three field goals, including a 48-yarder, to help seal the 22-6 final score. The Falcons’ disciplined performance included just four penalties and no turnovers, a stark contrast to their inconsistent 2024 campaign.

Fans at Mercedes-Benz Stadium erupted as the clock hit zero, celebrating a statement win to kick off the 2025 season. With the victory, Atlanta takes an early lead in the NFC South race and builds momentum heading into their Week 2 matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles.

“This is just the start,” said Cousins post-game. “We’ve got a lot of work to do, but it feels good to get this one at home.”

Both teams looked to make a statement in this early-season clash, with the Falcons aiming to leverage their home-field advantage and the Vikings hoping to showcase their offensive firepower. Here are live updates as the game unfolded!

• Falcons Inactives: RB Jase McClellan, CB Antonio Hamilton Sr., and TE Ross Dwelley are among those ruled out.
• Vikings Inactives: WR Trishton Jackson and CB Fabian Moreau are sidelined.
• Key Storylines: Falcons’ QB Kirk Cousins faces his former team, adding intrigue to the matchup. Vikings’ star WR Justin Jefferson looks to exploit Atlanta’s secondary, while RB Bijan Robinson aims to dominate on the ground for the Falcons.

First Quarter
Kickoff (1:00 PM EDT): The Falcons win the toss and elect to receive.

• The Falcons settle for three points as Parker Romo makes the field goal. Falcons up 3-0.
• The Vikings go for it on fourth down at about their 40 yard line and don’t get it. Turnover on downs!!

• 6:58: Michael Penix fires a strike into Bijan Robinson, but he drops it. It is now 3rd and five at the 10 yard line.
• 6:51: Penix fires a possible touchdown at Darnell Mooney, but he can’t hold on.
• Park Romo scores another field goal at 6 minutes in the first quarter. Falcons lead 6-0.

Second Quarter

• Falcons get an interception and the offense takes over with 4 minutes left in the half.

Halftime stats. I McCartjy with slightly better numbers then Michael Penix.

Third Quarter

• The Falcons bring pressure on 3rd and 9, forcing a punt with 1:35 left in the third quarter. #ATLvsMIN
• Penix is sacked for a big loss as the Falcons face 3rd and 14.
• Atlanta leads 12-6 after Parker Romo nails it for his fourth field goal of the night.
• End of the third: Falcons lead 12-6 into the fourth quarter over the Vikings.

Fourth Quarter

• Falcons sack McCarthy and recover a fumble with 14 minutes left in the fourth quarter.
• Penix is sacked at the 40 yard line by Jalen Redman.

• Falcons get set for a 54-yard line by Parker Romo. #ATLvsMIN GOOD. He’s 5 for 5!
• Tyler Allgeier walks into the end zone from 5 yards out, for the game’s first TD. Falcons lead 22-6 with 3:20 remaining.

The Vikings get the ball with 3 minutes left in the game.

• The Vikings’ second half possessions have been, PUNT, PUNT, FUMBLE, PUNT.
• McCarthy is picked off near the Falcons’ goal line. Atlanta takes over with 3 minutes left.

• The Falcons offense, facing a 3rd and 1, fail to pick it up. Punt with 28 seconds left in the game.
• The Falcons’ special teams recovers the muffed punt by Minnesota. This will do it.

Final Word

The Falcons defeat the Minnesota Vikings 22-6 on Sunday Night Football.

What’s Next: The Falcons (1-0) head to Philadelphia to face the Eagles next week, while the Vikings (0-1) return home to host the San Francisco 49ers.

Tucked away just a short drive from the skyscrapers of downtown Atlanta, the Bamboo Forest offers a serene escape into a lush, exotic landscape that feels worlds away from the urban hustle. Located within the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area in Sandy Springs, this is one of Atlanta’s hidden gems.

If you’re planning on visiting, this article will tell you what to know before you go to the bamboo forest located at the East Palisades portion of the area’s national park.

What Is The Bamboo Forest at East Palisades?

The Bamboo Forest at East Palisades is a part of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. If you’re feeling adventurous, walking to the forest is the way to go.

Spanning nearly 4 miles in a loop, the bamboo forest is one of the best trails in the Atlanta area. It typically takes about 1 hour and 38 minutes to finish. 

This area is popular for hiking, running, and walking, so expect to see other outdoor enthusiasts. The trail is open year-round and offers beautiful scenery. Leashed dogs are welcome to join you on your adventure.

When we entered the bamboo forest, it took about 2o minutes to walk there after entering the Chattahoochee River National Park Area. We took a lot of pictures and heard rushing water in the background.

How Much Does It Cost To Enter the Bamboo Forest?

Because the bamboo forest is a part of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, you’ll need to pay the per-person fee to enter. At the time of this writing, an annual pass was $40 and a day pass was $5. Visit recreation.gov/ for the latest fee information.

Where Is The Bamboo Forest at East Palisades?

The bamboo forest at East Palisades is located at East Palisades Unit – Indian Trail, 1425 Indian Trail NW, Sandy Springs, GA 30327. Here’s a map to help you find it.

You can get to the bamboo forest via the East Palisades Trail, but there is more than one way to access it. Another entrance is at 4058 Whitewater Creek Rd NW Atlanta, Ga. 30327. 

How Long Is the Hike To the Bamboo Forest in Atlanta?

The hike of the bamboo forest at East Palisades is approximately 3.9 miles. Once you get moving, you’ll find that it is mildly challenging in certain parts, but overall, it’s not that bad of a trek.

Getting There and AccessReaching the Bamboo Forest is straightforward, but plan ahead as the drive takes you through residential neighborhoods. The trail is about a 20- to 25-minute drive from downtown Atlanta, depending on traffic. Use GPS for precision, as the entrances can be tricky to spot.

• Primary Entrances: There are two main parking areas for the East Palisades Trail:
  • Indian Trail Entrance: 1425 Indian Trail NW, Sandy Springs, GA 30327. This is the closer access point to the bamboo but has more limited parking (about 20-30 spots).
  • Whitewater Creek Entrance: 4058 Whitewater Creek Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30327. This option offers more spaces and is slightly farther from the forest but easier for larger groups.

From either entrance, the bamboo is reachable via a side trail marked around E-26 on the East Palisades loop. Download the AllTrails app or a park map in advance for navigation, as cell service is reliable but signage can be sparse in spots. Public transit isn’t practical; driving or ridesharing is recommended.Fees and HoursAs part of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (managed by the National Park Service), entry requires a fee. Current rates include:

• Day Pass: $5 per person (valid for seven days).
• Annual Park Pass: $40, covering unlimited visits to this and other units in the recreation area.

Children under 16 enter free, and passes can be purchased online via Recreation.gov or at the parking lot kiosks using QR codes (cashless payment preferred). Note that fees apply per vehicle in some cases, but always confirm on the official site for the latest. The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset, roughly 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. in September, but check nps.gov/chat for exact times based on the season. Free entry days occur on federal holidays like Martin Luther King Jr. Day or Veterans Day, though these draw larger crowds.The Trail: Difficulty, Length, and What to ExpectThe full East Palisades Trail is a 4.9-mile loop with a moderate difficulty rating, featuring an elevation gain of about 540 feet—enough to provide a solid workout with steep inclines and declines that will “set your glutes on fire,” as one reviewer put it. Plan for 1.5 to 2.5 hours round-trip to the bamboo and back, depending on your pace and stops. The bamboo grove itself is about a 20- to 30-minute hike from the entrances, making it accessible for shorter visits.Highlights along the way include:

• Stunning river views from Poppi’s Point overlook, where you can glimpse parts of Atlanta’s skyline.
• Sandy beaches and swimming holes for a quick dip (water shoes advised for rocky areas).
• Wooden bridges over creeks, ruins of an old mill, and natural tree bridges.
• Picnic spots and granite caves for breaks.

The trail is well-maintained with shaded paths, but expect some rocky, narrow sections and potential downed trees (rangers clear them regularly). It’s beginner-friendly overall but not stroller-accessible due to the terrain. Leashed dogs are welcome, and you’ll likely see plenty of off-leash pups at the river beaches.Best Time to Visit and Weather ConsiderationsSeptember is an ideal time to go, with milder temperatures (highs in the 80s°F) and fewer crowds than peak summer weekends. Early mornings (before 10 a.m.) or weekdays are best to beat the heat and secure parking—lots fill up by mid-morning on Saturdays. Avoid midday in warmer months, as humidity can make the hike challenging. The bamboo provides natural shade, but the forest stays lush year-round, even in winter when other foliage thins.Check the weather forecast, as Georgia’s afternoons can bring sudden showers. The Chattahoochee River’s water levels fluctuate, so if you’re into kayaking or fishing nearby, monitor USGS river gauges.Tips for a Great Visit: What to Bring and Safety NotesTo make the most of your trip:

• Essentials: Sturdy hiking shoes (trails are uneven), at least one water bottle per person (no fountains on the trail), bug spray (mosquitoes and ticks are common), and sunscreen. Pack snacks or a picnic— you’ll work up an appetite.
• For Photos: Bring a camera or phone tripod; the bamboo’s height creates dramatic, filtered light perfect for Instagram-worthy shots. Climb boulders in the grove for unique angles, but stay on marked paths.
• Safety First: Watch for poison ivy along the edges—stick to the trail. Rattlesnakes and copperheads are rare but possible in wooded areas, so keep an eye out. No swimming advisories due to currents; supervise kids and pets near the river. Restrooms are available at parking lots but not on the trail.
• Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash to preserve this natural wonder. The area is patrolled by park rangers, so follow rules to avoid fines.

Final Word

The bamboo forest is an amazing sight to behold. We’re so glad it’s only about 25 minutes outside Atlanta, which means we can drive there easily.

Are you an outdoors fan? Check out these parks to walk or jog in.

Get out and about in Georgia’s largest city. Check out the best things to do this weekend.

In the heart of Buckhead, where creativity meets commerce, the Atlanta Decorative Arts Center (ADAC) stands as a beacon for interior designers, architects, and design enthusiasts across the Southeast.

Its recently redesigned interior spaces lean heavily into Atlanta’s place as a design hub.

”It’s huge,” Katie Miner, executive vice president and general manager of ADAC,” tells AtlantaFi.com, referring to Atlanta’s place in the design industry.

Miner and a handful of designers were on hand for the ribbon-cutting of ADAC’s new design spaces on Wednesday, Sept. 10.

“People are in the Southeast grew up with design,” Miner says. “The moms and their parents had designed homes. They hired interior designers. So we have more of an affection towards it. Like, we love design in the Southeast. So to have ADAC here in Atlanta is just, it’s huge for the design community, but not just Atlanta. It’s the entire Southeast region.”

It’s quite common to have designers “that will come in from Nashville and Charlotte and Charleston and other areas just to shop this building,” because of all of the product offerings that are here located in one space, she says.

For over six decades, this premier hub at 351 Peachtree Hills Avenue has been more than just a showroom destination—it’s a testament to the visionary spirit of one man: legendary Atlanta architect John C. Portman Jr.

Atlanta’s Design Mastermind: John Portman Jr.

As Atlanta continues to evolve as a global city of innovation and style, Portman’s legacy at ADAC reminds us how one architect’s bold ideas reshaped not only skylines but also the very fabric of local design culture.

Portman, who passed away in 2017 at the age of 93, was a Georgia Tech alumnus whose neofuturistic designs revolutionized urban architecture worldwide.

Born in Walhalla, South Carolina, in 1924, he graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology in 1950 and quickly made Atlanta his canvas. His breakthrough came with the completion of ADAC in 1961, a project he personally designed as a multifaceted marketplace to cater to the burgeoning needs of the design trade.

“Going back to Mr. Portman, who designed this building, it was born from his love of design,” Miner says of ADAC’s design. “He was an architect by trade, but his wife really loved interior design, and so he started this building for the design trade back in 1961 because of that love for design, and then just it kept evolving over time and growing and growing as more and more, he was able to bring more and more product offerings here to Atlanta.”

This wasn’t just another building; it was Portman’s early foray into creating integrated spaces that blended functionality with aesthetic grandeur, setting the stage for his more famous atrium-filled masterpieces.

What made ADAC revolutionary in its time? Portman envisioned it as a “one-stop shopping resource” for residential and contract furnishings, drawing in showrooms from top brands and fostering a community for professionals. 

Founded amid Atlanta’s post-World War II boom, the center was strategically located in Peachtree Hills to serve the city’s growing elite and business class.

It quickly became intertwined with Portman’s other ventures, such as the nearby AmericasMart—another of his 1961 designs—that solidified Atlanta as a powerhouse for trade shows and conventions.  Together, these projects helped transform Atlanta from a regional hub into an international destination, stimulating tourism and economic growth that still echoes today.

Portman’s significance to Atlanta cannot be overstated. He is credited with revitalizing downtown through the Peachtree Center complex, launched in 1965, which includes iconic structures like the Hyatt Regency Atlanta (with its pioneering 23-story atrium), the Westin Peachtree Plaza Hotel, and the Atlanta Marriott Marquis.

Newly Designed ADAC Studios Shine in Buckhead

These “cities within a city” concepts—massive, inwardly focused developments with soaring interiors—challenged traditional urban planning and made Atlanta’s skyline a symbol of modernist ambition.

Critics once dismissed his work as turning backs on the streets, but proponents hail it for humanizing vast spaces and enhancing daily life through “cinematic” environments that connect people to architecture on a personal level. 

By the 1970s, Portman’s influence extended globally, with projects like the Westin Bonaventure in Los Angeles and the Renaissance Center in Detroit, but Atlanta remained his true north star.

Miner says look for ADAC to do big things in the future.

“ADAC is the largest design center in the Southeast — actually in the country, that serves the Southeast,” she says.

Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:

• The Best Parks in Atlanta
• Where To Go for Outdoors Adventure in Atlanta
• Top Mountain Views Close To Atlanta

Rising food costs are starting to eat a hole in your budget, which makes it that much more important to look for cheap eats around Atlanta. One place you can find them is at The Battery Atlanta.

No matter if you’re down to watch a Braves game or not, you can find affordable food at The Battery Atlanta. In this article, we’ll share some food specials that will delight your wallet.

Where To Eat for Cheap at The Battery Atlanta

Note: Please check the websites of the respective eateries for specifics. As you know, things change quickly.

El Super Pan

455 Legends Pl #862, Atlanta, GA 30339 |  (404) 521-6500

Daily happy hour (4-7 p.m.) with $5 beers, $6 rum punch, and free churros for Battery employees and residents.

Battle & Brew

925 Battery Ave SE Suite 1125, Atlanta, GA 30339 | (470) 308-3255

(Wednesdays Only): Half-off select apps (3-6 p.m.) and Whiskey Wednesday Taste & Tour.

Cru Food & Wine Bar

915 Battery Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30339 | (770) 485-9463

Monday–Friday (3-5:30 p.m.), $3 off glasses or flights of wine (bar and patio only).

Silverspot Cinema

960 Battery Ave SE Suite 5000, Atlanta, GA 30339 | (678) 504-7600

Monday–Friday (4-7 p.m.), discounted shareable bites (e.g., chicken quesadilla, pretzel bites), flatbreads, and drink specials on wine, beer, and cocktails.

Sports & Social Atlanta

825 Battery Ave SE #600, Atlanta, GA 30339

Daily lunch menu (11 a.m.–3 p.m.), $5 bottle beers and canned cocktails, $5 cheeseburgers, and late-night menu until midnight.

Final Word

Want to eat for cheap more often? Check out our Atlanta Food Specials Guide, which breaks down the food deals at some of your favorite restaurants.

More Food Coverage:

Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta

• Where To Eat In West Midtown
• Where To Eat In Atlanta
• Best Restaurants On The Atlanta Beltline Right Now

The Atlanta Braves play the Seattle Mariners at home with plenty to play for. Can the Braves salvage their season? And here’s a better question: Do you want to watch Braves games?

In this article, we’ll show you how to watch and stream the Braves game on your TV or device. Now the good news is that you can watch the Braves game for free.

How To Watch The Atlanta Braves For Free

You can watch the Braves game today or any other day, sign up for FuboTV and watch for free.

You can watch the Atlanta Braves game through several options:

1. TV Broadcast: Braves games are often broadcast on Bally Sports South or Bally Sports Southeast if you’re in the region. Check your local cable or satellite provider for access.
2. Streaming Services:
   • MLB.TV: Offers live out-of-market games, ideal if you’re not in the Braves’ broadcast region.
   • FuboTV, DIRECTV STREAM, or YouTube TV: Some packages include Bally Sports South or offer access to national broadcasts on channels like ESPN, FOX, or TBS.
3. National Broadcasts: Games may also air on ESPN, FOX, TBS, or Apple TV+ for exclusive matchups.
4. Radio: Tune into 680 The Fan (WCNN-AM) or La Mejor 1600 AM for live radio coverage.
5. In Person: If you’re near Truist Park in Atlanta, you can purchase tickets to watch the game live.

Who Do The Atlanta Braves Play on Opening Day?

he Atlanta Braves opened their 2025 MLB season on March 27 with an away game against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park. The Padres won the game 7-4, rallying in the seventh inning with key contributions from Jackson Merrill, who had four RBIs, and Gavin Sheets, who hit a 405-foot home run.

The Braves’ home opener is scheduled for April 4 against the Miami Marlins at Truist Park.

What Is the Braves Pitching Rotation Right Now?

The Atlanta Braves have announced their starting rotation for the opening portion of the season:​

1. Chris Sale: The left-hander, acquired during the offseason, is set to start on Opening Day against the San Diego Padres.
2. Reynaldo López: Following Sale, López will take the mound for the second game of the series.
3. Spencer Schwellenbach: The right-hander, who had an impressive spring training with a 2.41 ERA and 26 strikeouts over 18.2 innings, is slated for the third game. ​
4. AJ Smith-Shawver: This young right-hander will start the series finale in San Diego.
5. Grant Holmes: Holmes is scheduled to start the series opener against the Los Angeles Dodgers on Monday. ​

Notably, Spencer Strider is beginning the season on the 15-day injured list due to a right elbow UCL injury.

This rotation reflects the Braves’ adjustments to injuries and offseason acquisitions as they commence the 2025 season.

How Are the Braves Doing This Year?

Having proven themselves as a perennial power, the Braves are having a hard time.

They’ve had a tough go, especially on the road (13-26), though they’re better at home (22-15). Offensively, they’re hitting .245 with 81 home runs and a .704 OPS, while scoring 329 runs. Key players like Ronald Acuña Jr. and Spencer Strider are expected back soon, which could help, but injuries and a slow start (0-7) have made it a challenging year. They’re coming off a 2024 season where they went 89-73 and made the playoffs as a Wild Card team, but lost in the first round.

The Braves’ lineup was supposed to be strengthened by the returns of key players Ronald Acuña Jr. and Spencer Strider from injuries. Acuña’s presence enhances the offense, while Strider’s return in April is expected to solidify a rotation that includes Chris Sale, Reynaldo López, and Spencer Schwellenbach.

However, the bullpen remains an area of uncertainty. With Joe Jiménez sidelined and A.J. Minter now with the Mets, the Braves will rely on Raisel Iglesias as the closer, supported by Pierce Johnson, Aaron Bummer, and newcomers Héctor Neris and Craig Kimbrel. Their performance will be crucial in maintaining leads and securing victories. ​

Overall, while the Braves face challenges within a competitive division, their balanced roster and returning stars position them as formidable contenders for the NL East crown and a deep postseason run.​

Here’s a breakdown of how some of the major parts of the team are expected to fare this year.

Pitching

The Atlanta Braves enter the 2025 season with a pitching staff that blends seasoned veterans and promising young talent. Here’s an overview of their current rotation and bullpen:​

Starting Rotation:

1. Chris Sale (LHP): The reigning National League Cy Young Award winner is projected to lead the staff with 182 innings pitched, a 3.03 ERA, and 4.6 fWAR. ​
2. Reynaldo López (RHP): After a stellar 2024 season with a 1.99 ERA, López is expected to continue his success, with projections indicating a 3.56 ERA and 3.1 fWAR over 173 innings. ​
3. Spencer Schwellenbach (RHP): This young right-hander is anticipated to make significant contributions, with projections of a 3.71 ERA and 2.7 fWAR across 165 innings.
4. AJ Smith-Shawver (RHP): At 22, Smith-Shawver has earned a spot in the rotation, showcasing improved command and a newly added cutter to his repertoire. ​
5. Spencer Strider (RHP): The return of Strider, who is back from right elbow surgery, potentially bolsters the rotation significantly.
6. Grant Holmes (RHP): After a decade in the minor leagues, the 29-year-old made his MLB debut in 2024 and secured a rotation spot for 2025.

Bullpen:

The bullpen features a mix of experience and new faces:​

• Raisel Iglesias (RHP): Serving as the team’s closer, Iglesias is recognized as one of the game’s best. ​
• Pierce Johnson (RHP): A reliable setup man, Johnson is expected to play a crucial role in high-leverage situations.
• Aaron Bummer (LHP): Acquired in an offseason trade, Bummer is projected to provide quality innings out of the bullpen. ​
• Enyel De Los Santos (RHP): Signed to a minor league deal, De Los Santos is anticipated to contribute in middle relief roles.
• Daysbel Hernández (RHP): A homegrown talent, Hernández is expected to provide depth in the bullpen. ​
• Héctor Neris (RHP): An experienced reliever, Neris was added to bolster the bullpen’s depth and versatility.
• Craig Kimbrel (RHP): Returning to Atlanta, Kimbrel brings veteran leadership and a track record of success.

Outlook:

The Braves’ pitching staff is considered a strength, with a solid rotation that will be further enhanced upon Strider’s return. The bullpen, while featuring experienced arms, faces questions due to injuries and the departure of key contributors like A.J. Minter. The team’s success will largely depend on maintaining health and the continued development of their young pitchers.

Braves Infield Outlook

The Atlanta Braves enter the 2025 season with a familiar and potentially formidable infield, aiming to rebound from an injury-plagued 2024. Here’s an overview of their infield composition:​

First Base: Matt Olson

Matt Olson remains a cornerstone at first base. Despite a dip in power last season, hitting 29 home runs compared to 54 in 2023, Olson’s second-half resurgence showcased his enduring offensive capabilities. Projections for 2025 anticipate a return to form, with Olson expected to contribute significantly to the lineup. ​MLB.com+2Battery Power+2New York Post+2

Second Base: Ozzie Albies

Ozzie Albies continues to anchor second base. Known for his switch-hitting prowess and defensive agility, Albies aims to provide both offensive spark and infield stability. A healthy season from him would be pivotal for the Braves’ success. ​Battery Power

Shortstop: Orlando Arcia

Orlando Arcia returns as the starting shortstop. After a career-best 17 home runs in 2023, Arcia faced challenges in 2024. The Braves are optimistic that he can regain his form and provide reliable defense up the middle. ​

Third Base: Austin Riley

Austin Riley holds down third base. After three consecutive 30+ home run seasons, Riley’s production dipped in 2024 due to injuries. Projections for 2025 are optimistic, forecasting a rebound with 29 home runs and a .842 OPS, highlighting his potential to be a key offensive contributor. ​Just Baseball+4New York Post+4Battery Power+4Battery PowerJust Baseball

Depth and Utility Options

The Braves have bolstered their infield depth with versatile players:​

• Jurickson Profar: Signed to a three-year, $42 million contract in January 2025, Profar brings flexibility with his ability to play multiple infield and outfield positions. His bat-to-ball skills and switch-hitting ability add valuable depth to the roster.
• Nick Allen: Acquired during the offseason, Allen is a strong defensive shortstop who provides a reliable backup option. His presence offers the Braves flexibility in managing the infield throughout the season. ​
• Christian Cairo: Selected in the Rule 5 Draft from the Cleveland Guardians, Cairo reached Triple-A in 2024. Known for his defensive prowess, he will need to remain on the 26-man roster or be offered back to Cleveland. ​

The Braves’ infield outlook for 2025 hinges on the health and performance of their core players. A return to form by Olson, Albies, Arcia, and Riley, combined with strategic contributions from depth pieces like Profar and Allen, could position Atlanta’s infield among the most formidable in the National League. ​

Braves Outfield

Atlanta’s outfield is a mixed bag of strengths and potential weaknesses for 2024. Left field was a concern in 2023, with players like Eddie Rosario, Kevin Pillar, and Forest Wall rotating through, contributing about 1.4 fWAR. To bolster this position, the Braves traded for Jarred Kelenic, a former top prospect who struggled in his early career but showed promise in 2023 with 11 home runs and a .746 OPS. Despite a rough start in spring training, the Braves also brought back Adam Duvall to platoon in left. Duvall, a fan favorite, had a stellar 2021 season, including 38 home runs, 113 RBIs, and a Gold Glove.

In center field, 23-year-old Michael Harris II, the 2022 NL Rookie of the Year, had a slow start in 2023 but finished strong, posting a .878 OPS in the second half and ranking 7th in fWAR among center fielders despite missing 24 games due to injuries. He is projected to be one of the best in the sport in 2024, with expectations of hitting over 20 home runs and providing elite defense, potentially surpassing players like Mike Trout and Luis Robert Jr.

What is the Braves Starting Lineup?

• Catcher (2): Sean Murphy and Travis d’Arnaud
• First baseman (1): Matt Olson
• Second baseman (1): Ozzie Albies
• Shortstop (1): Orlando Arcia
• Third baseman (1): Austin Riley
• Outfielders (4): Ronald Acuña Jr., Michael Harris II, Jarred Kelenic, Adam Duvall
• DH (1): Marcell Ozuna
• Bench/Utility (2): Luis Guillorme, Forrest Wall

Starting Pitchers (5): LHP Max Fried, RHP Spencer Strider, RHP Charlie Morton, LHP Chris Sale, RHP Reynaldo LópezRelief Pitchers (8): RHP Raisel Iglesias, LHP A.J. Minter, RHP Joe Jiménez, RHP Pierce Johnson, LHP Tyler Matzek, LHP Dylan Lee, LHP Aaron Bummer, RHP Jesse Chave

Final Word

The Braves have been surging through the 2023 campaign and deservingly so, the team has nothing short of title hopes. To no one’s surprise, a large part of the season hinges on the healthy arm of pitcher Ronald Acuña and the bullpen.

The Braves are just one of many Atlanta teams that you can support. The Falcons and Hawks could really appreciate your help.