The 2025 season is officially off and running, though maybe not quite the way the Atlanta Braves had hoped. Opening Day was a tough one as the bullpen unraveled against the Padres.
The bullpen ended up spoiling what started as a promising outing. But, it’s just one game. And if there’s one thing we know about baseball, it’s that a single loss isn’t the whole story.
The good news is Braves bats were lively, chasing Padres starter Michael King by the third inning and consistently making hard contact. That’s a sign this offense could be as dangerous as advertised. So while the bullpen hiccup stings, the season’s marathon has just begun. And trust me — there’s still plenty to be excited about.
Snitker’s Steady Hand on the Braves Bullpen
If the bullpen had Braves fans reaching for the panic button, Brian Snitker was quick to tap the brakes. The skipper didn’t sugarcoat the rough performance but stayed calm, defending the readiness of relievers like Hector Neris. “I like where we’re at,” Snitker said postgame, acknowledging that finding the right bullpen roles takes time.
He’s not wrong. Bullpens are notoriously volatile — one day, they’re lights out, and the next day, they’re imploding. While Opening Day was rough, the season is long.
And if there’s one thing Braves fans have learned over the years, it’s that Snitker knows how to manage through adversity. So don’t write off the relief corps just yet.
More Ways to Watch with Gray Media’s New Shows
Gray Media is stepping up its game on the broadcast side. In addition to simulcasting 15 Braves games on Peachtree TV, it’s rolling out two new shows to ensure fans stay connected to the action.
First up, Live from the Chop will bring pre-game energy straight from Truist Park, with Paul Byrd, Lauren Jbara, and Charlie Culberson giving fans a behind-the-scenes look at the ballpark atmosphere.
Then, after the final out, Back to the Chop will keep the conversation rolling with Peter Moylan, Baillie Burmaster, and a rotating panel of guests breaking down the game and talking league-wide trends.
More Braves coverage? Yes, please.
High Hopes from the Experts
Suppose you’re looking for something to fuel your optimism; how about this — two of the biggest names in baseball media are betting on the Braves to win it all. Keith Law and Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic both picked Atlanta to hoist the World Series trophy at the end of 2025.
And why not? The Braves are bringing a powerful lineup, a deep rotation featuring Cy Young contenders like Spencer Strider and the reigning Cy Young winner Chris Sale, and a chip on their shoulder after a frustrating 2024.
Sure, health and luck will play a role — they always do. However, having the confidence of experts like Law and Rosenthal says a lot about how good this team looks on paper.
On to the Next Braves Game
One loss doesn’t define a season. The Braves have the talent, the experience, and the leadership to shake this one off and get back on track. The offense is already showing why it’s one of the most feared in baseball, and Snitker has confidence in the arms at his disposal.
It’s a long road ahead, and plenty more stories waiting to be written. And if Opening Day is any indication, it’s going to be a wild ride.
