The last time the Atlanta Braves and Los Angeles Dodgers met, a trip to the World Series was on the line. The stakes aren't nearly so high this time, and neither team is even leading its division as the two clubs meet in a three-game series beginning Friday in Atlanta.
The Dodgers are 33-23, third place in the National League West but just 3-5 over their past eight games. The Braves (26-28) are in second place in the NL East, but haven't been above the .500 mark all season.
Still, there is great anticipation for the series in Atlanta, where sellout crowds are expected this weekend.