The Los Angeles Dodgers opened their National League Division Series matchup against the Atlanta Braves with a strong all-around performance, and manager Dave Roberts credited Tarik Skubal for setting the tone.

Skubal worked six innings in challenging conditions, keeping Atlanta’s lineup off balance with his fastball, changeup and slider. Roberts was particularly impressed with the left-hander’s ability to navigate the Braves’ lineup while maintaining his effectiveness deep into the game.

The only major damage against Skubal came when Sean Murphy connected on a two-strike pitch above the strike zone for a home run. Despite that mistake, Roberts remained encouraged by the overall quality of Skubal’s outing.

The Dodgers then turned to their bullpen to finish the game, with Roberts believing the relief corps handled the assignment effectively.

Kyle Tucker also gave the Dodgers an important offensive spark with a two-run home run.

Tucker entered the postseason looking to put a difficult regular season behind him, and Roberts viewed the home run as an important step in changing the narrative surrounding the outfielder’s 2026 campaign.

Roberts credited Tucker for continuing to work through his struggles rather than avoiding them. With the postseason carrying significantly more weight in how players are remembered, the Dodgers manager believes moments such as Tucker’s home run can help reshape the perception of his season.

Tucker was not the only Dodgers hitter to provide an encouraging sign. Teoscar Hernández delivered a key homer, Max Muncy homered, Mookie Betts continued to put together quality at-bats, and Freddie Freeman contributed offensively.

Roberts also felt Shohei Ohtani’s overall approach at the plate was encouraging despite the results.

Winning Game 1 also gave the Dodgers an ideal opportunity to move forward with their pitching plans.

Blake Snell is scheduled to follow Skubal, while Yoshinobu Yamamoto remains available for Game 3. Roberts indicated that the combination gives the Dodgers confidence heading deeper into the series.

The bullpen decisions also drew attention late in the game. Roberts started with Tanner Scott; after his struggles, he turned to Evan Phillips to close it out. Roki Sasaki would be made available. Roberts explained that he felt more comfortable bringing Phillips into that particular situation.

Roberts did not view the decision as something that would alter his plans for the bullpen moving forward. Despite allowing a home run, the manager remained pleased with what he saw from the pitching staff.

Roberts also discussed why Hernández has consistently delivered in important situations.

The Dodgers manager pointed to Hernández’s ability to move past failures quickly and maintain his focus. That approach allows him to reset at the plate rather than allowing a previous mistake to affect his next opportunity.

That mindset helped Hernández capitalize when he received a pitch he could handle in Game 1.

Freddie Freeman also drew praise for his decision-making on the bases.

After reaching safely, Freeman chose not to force the issue and attempt to take an extra base when Atlanta made a quick play on the ball. Roberts viewed the decision as smart baserunning rather than a missed opportunity.

He also indicated that Freeman’s physical condition is not a concern entering the series.

Beyond their performances on the mound, Roberts has enjoyed watching Skubal and Snell develop a relationship as teammates.

The two left-handers have developed a strong level of respect for one another and have exchanged ideas about attacking hitters and pitching effectively. Roberts believes that sharing those experiences can benefit both pitchers.

With Skubal already setting the tone in Game 1 and Snell scheduled to follow him, Roberts has plenty of reason to be encouraged by the Dodgers’ position after the series opener.