What happened: Tarik Skubal punched out all three Atlanta hitters in the third inning and had not issued a walk through three frames. He carried a one-hitter with five strikeouts against the Braves.

Why it matters: The outing gave the Dodgers exactly the start they wanted after <a href='https://wire.report/article/dodgers-open-game-1-with-tarik-skubal-against-braves-2026-10-03'>handing Skubal the Game 1 assignment against Atlanta</a>. In a postseason opener, early swing-and-miss stuff can shorten the path to leverage relievers and put immediate pressure on the Braves' offense.

What to watch: The next test is Atlanta's second look at Skubal as the lineup turns over. If the Braves cannot force longer at-bats, Los Angeles can keep its bullpen usage light early in the series.