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Atlanta Braves X-Factor Continues to Make Noise in 2026
TL;DR
The Atlanta Braves are off to a strong start in the 2026 season, leading the National League East with a 9-6 record despite injuries. Veteran Dominic Smith has emerged as a key player, boasting a 1.039 OPS after hitting a home run against the Cleveland Guardians.
Atlanta Braves X-Factor Continues to Make Noise in 2026
The Atlanta Braves have played well to begin the 2026 season considering all of the injuries the team has dealt with. Atlanta entered Sunday night's game against the Cleveland Guardians sitting in first place in the National League East with a 9-6 overall record. One player who has become a true X-factor for the team is veteran Dominic Smith. According to Mark Bowman, the slugger now has a 1.039 OPS after hitting a home run against the Guardians on Sunday.
Smith, 30, came into the game with a .939 OPS in 11 games played. He does not play every day, but Smith makes an impact when he is on the field.
When the Braves signed Smith to a minor league contract this past offseason, there was certainly a chance that he could end up playing a role for the big league club. There were not many people who expected Smith to accomplish everything he has done so far to begin the season, though.
Smith has never hit more than 12 home runs in a single MLB season. He could end up recording a new career-best mark this year. As long as he plays in a respectable amount of games, the 2026 campaign could become Smith's best season yet. He clearly is finding success with Atlanta.
The Braves feature a number of offensive stars. Ronald Acuna Jr. is one of the best players in baseball. Matt Olson is a reliable left-handed slugger. Nevertheless, every MLB team understands how important depth is.
Dominic Smith gives the team depth at the very least. If he continues to swing the bat how he has through the first few weeks of the season, Smith may even earn All-Star consideration.
Braves Looking to Defeat Guardians
Smith's home run gave the Braves a 5-0 lead against the Guardians. As of this story's publication, Atlanta still holds a 5-0 lead in the fifth inning. If Atlanta can hold on for the victory, it will represent a series win.
The Braves earned a win on Friday by a final score of 11-5. The Guardians rebounded with a 6-0 win on Saturday. Both teams entered Sunday's game with 9-6 records. Additionally, they were both leading their divisions. Sunday's game was expected to be competitive, but that hasn't been the case though the first five innings.
Anything can happen, however. The Braves will do everything they can to get the job done and clinch the series victory.
Q&A
What is Dominic Smith's current OPS in the 2026 season?
Dominic Smith currently has a 1.039 OPS after hitting a home run against the Cleveland Guardians.
How are the Atlanta Braves performing in the 2026 season despite injuries?
The Atlanta Braves are performing well, sitting in first place in the National League East with a 9-6 record.
What role did the Braves expect Dominic Smith to play when they signed him?
The Braves signed Dominic Smith to a minor league contract with the expectation that he could contribute to the big league club, though his current impact has exceeded initial expectations.
