Braves Need to Stick it to the Dodgers Now to Set the Tone for Potential Playoff Matchup

There are really only two teams in the National League who are all but guaranteed a spot in the postseason: the Los Angeles Dodgers and Atlanta Braves. Until proven otherwise, these are the top two teams in the Senior Circuit and they begin a three-game set this weekend in Atlanta.

Playing on their home turf, it's time for the Braves to stick it to LA and prove they're a force to be reckoned with.

These two teams squared off back in May and the Dodgers had an easy time with Atlanta, sweeping the three-game series and outscoring the Braves 23-7. That was over three months ago and both teams are much different, especially the Braves, who are far improved from where they stood in the early weeks of the season.

The Braves have had a rough time with the Dodgers in recent years, including their last two postseason appearances where they were defeated by the Dodgers in four games in the NLDS.

The Dodgers clearly have an advantage in the pitching department, both in the rotation and bullpen, but these two offenses can go toe-to-toe. If the Braves can get some quality innings out of their starters, they may be able to walk away with a series win.

This is undoubtedly an important series for the Braves, and it's time to push back against this Dodgers club, making sure they know what's coming if they lock horns in October.