If you just woke up and the first thing on your mind was checking what time does Braves play today, I've got some news for you. It’s January 15, 2026. Unless you’re looking for the Alcorn State Braves or the Baldwin High Braves—who actually do have games tonight—you won’t find the Atlanta Braves on a diamond today.
Baseball is in that weird mid-winter hibernation. Truist Park is quiet. Most of the guys are probably still working out in private gyms or enjoying the last bits of the off-season. But don't close this tab yet. Even though there isn't a first pitch scheduled for this afternoon, today is actually a massive day for the organization.
Today is the start of the International Free Agency signing period. While you can't watch a game, the Braves are busy building the roster that’ll hopefully win us a pennant in 2030.
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When Do the Atlanta Braves Actually Take the Field?
The wait isn't as long as it feels. We are officially in the "pitchers and catchers report" countdown.
The 2026 Spring Training schedule is already out. Atlanta’s first exhibition game is scheduled for Saturday, February 21, 2026. They’ll be taking on the Tampa Bay Rays at Charlotte Sports Park. That game is a 1:05 PM ET start.
If you're looking for the regular season, mark your calendars for Thursday, March 26, 2026. That’s Opening Day. The Braves are starting at home this year against the Kansas City Royals. It’s one of those rare times we actually get to open the season at Truist Park instead of freezing on the road in Philly or New York.
The 2026 Braves Schedule Highlights
- Spring Training Opener: Feb 21 vs. Rays (Away)
- First Spring Home Game: Feb 22 vs. Twins (North Port)
- Opening Day: March 26 vs. Royals (Home)
- Rivalry Weekend: May 15-17 vs. Red Sox (Home)
- Little League Classic: August 23 vs. Brewers (Williamsport)
Honestly, that Little League Classic in Williamsport is going to be the highlight of the summer. Seeing the guys in those special jerseys playing on that tiny field? It's basically Christmas in August for baseball fans.
Why Today Matters: The International Signing Class
You asked what time does Braves play today, and while the MLB team is off, the front office is working overtime. January 15 is basically "National Signing Day" for international baseball.
Alex Anthopoulos and his team just landed a huge haul. The big name everyone is talking about is Jose Mañon, a 17-year-old shortstop from the Dominican Republic. He’s ranked as a top-15 international prospect. Reports say the Braves dropped about $1.5 million to get him. He’s 6-foot-2, hits for contact, and supposedly has a vacuum for a glove.
They also grabbed Starlyn De La Cruz, an outfielder with some serious pop.
It’s easy to ignore this stuff because these kids won’t be in Atlanta for four or five years. But remember when we signed Ronald Acuña Jr. or Ozzie Albies? Those deals happened on days just like today. The Braves are spreading their $6.6 million bonus pool around to rebuild a farm system that’s been a little thin lately.
If You’re Looking for "Braves" Basketball Tonight
Maybe you aren't a baseball fan. Maybe you're looking for the college or high school squads. If so, you actually can watch a game today.
Alcorn State Braves
The Alcorn State Braves are playing the Prairie View A&M Lady Panthers (wait, that’s the women’s schedule—let’s look at the men). Actually, the Alcorn State women's team is hosting Prairie View A&M tonight at the Davey L. Whitney Complex.
- Tip-off: 7:00 PM ET
- Where: Lorman, Mississippi
Baldwin High Braves
If you’re in Georgia, the Baldwin High Braves (Milledgeville) are the talk of the town. They are currently ranked No. 1 and just coming off a huge win against Harlem High. They don't play tonight, but they have a massive showdown against Cross Creek next Tuesday.
What Most People Get Wrong About the Off-Season
People think the Braves are just sitting around waiting for February. That’s definitely not the case.
This off-season has been a whirlwind. After a 2025 season that felt a little "underwhelming" (let's be real, those injuries were brutal), the team has been aggressive. They’ve already signed Ha-Seong Kim to a $20 million deal to lock down shortstop. They also brought in Mauricio Dubon and Mike Yastrzemski for depth.
The biggest shocker? The coaching staff change. Seeing Walt Weiss take over and Jeremy Hefner coming in as the new pitching coach is a total vibe shift.
Why You Should Be Excited for 2026
- Healthy Rotation: Spencer Strider should be back to full "quadzilla" strength.
- The Bullpen: They added Robert Suarez and Raisel Iglesias to an already scary late-inning group.
- The New Shortstop: Having Kim’s defense at short is going to save so many runs.
How to Follow the Braves Until Opening Day
Since there isn't a game at a specific time today, you’ve gotta find other ways to get your fix.
I’d suggest keeping an eye on the "Braves Today" beat writers like Mark Bowman. He’s been talking a lot about Daysbel Hernandez lately. He’s a Cuban reliever who can hit 98 mph but couldn't find the strike zone last year. The word around the facility is that he’s the "breakout candidate" for 2026. If Hefner can fix his mechanics, he’s going to be a problem for the rest of the NL East.
Also, if you're local to Atlanta, "Braves Fest" is usually right around the corner in late January. It’s the best chance to get autographs and realize just how much taller these guys are in person.
Actionable Next Steps for Fans
- Check Your Calendar: Ensure you have March 26 blocked off for the Royals series.
- Update Your App: Make sure the MLB app is set to "Atlanta Braves" so you get the alerts when spring training tickets go on sale.
- Watch the Prospects: Look up highlights of Jose Mañon. Seeing a 17-year-old with that kind of swing will make you feel a lot better about the future.
- Gear Up: New jerseys usually drop right before spring training. If you're planning on a new Acuña or Kim jersey, wait for the February releases.
The Braves aren't playing a game today, but the 2026 season is effectively starting right now with these international signings. We’re about five weeks away from seeing the jersey-clad boys back in Florida. Hang in there; baseball is almost back.