The path was more difficult than many expected or would have predicted, but the Los Angeles Dodgers nonetheless clinched a sixth consecutive National League West title and now will meet the Atlanta Braves in the NL Division Series.
Atlanta was the first NL team to clinch a postseason berth this year, but it wasn’t until Monday that they knew who their opponent would be. This marks a third time the Dodgers and Braves have met in the postseason and second since 2013 it’s come in the NLDS.
By virtue of finishing with a better record (even prior to winning Game 163), the Dodgers secured home-field advantage in the first round. That was in favor of the Braves five years ago, though the Dodgers memorably won the series in four games on Juan Uribe’s game-winning home run.
This year, Games 1 and 2 are being played at Dodger Stadium, with the series beginning Thursday. First pitch is set for 5:37 p.m. PT, however fans will be permitted to enter Dodger Stadium parking and entry gates well in advance.
For Game 1, Dodger Stadium auto gates open at 2:40 p.m., and fans with tickets can also enter the stadium at that time. The Dodgers will take batting practice at 2:50 p.m., with introductions and pregame ceremonies beginning at 5 p.m.
Mike Brito is throwing out the first pitch, and Keith Williams Jr. is singing the national anthem.
Parking and stadium gates for Game 2 open at 3:40 p.m., with pregame programming beginning at 6:15. Bill Russell will have the honor of throwing out the ceremonial first pitch, and the start time is set for 6:37 p.m.
The Dodger Stadium Express will operate during the postseason from both Union Station and the South Bay. Service starts two hours before first pitch and is free for everyone with a game ticket. Advance parking can be purchased at Dodgers.com/parking and more information on transportation options can be found at Dodgers.com/transportation.
Game 1 will air live on MLB Network, while the remainder of the NLDS will be carried by FS1. Complete NLDS schedule included below.
Game 1: Thursday, Oct. 4, Dodger Stadium, 5:37 p.m. PT (MLB Network)
Game 2: Friday, Oct. 5, Dodger Stadium, 6:37 p.m. (FS1)
Game 3: Sunday, Oct. 7, SunTrust Park, 5:07 p.m. (FS1)
Game 4*: Monday, Oct. 8, SunTrust Park (FS1)
Game 5*: Wednesday, Oct. 10, Dodger Stadium (FS1)
*if necessary
