The playoff push is on and this week’s schedule is loaded with games that will shape the October picture. From heavyweight bouts to rising stars making noise, there’s plenty of reasons to watch. Here are five must-watch MLB games this week:
Brewers at Braves (Aug 4–6)
The Brewers just swept the Nationals and enters the week with the best record in MLB. They’re rolling on all cylinders, especially on offense where Christian Yelich and William Contreras are leading the charge. But this trip to Atlanta is a real test. The Braves are always tough and with playoff experience all over their roster they know how to raise the stakes.
Dodgers vs. Cardinals (Aug 4–6)
The Dodgers are back in L.A. after nearly two weeks on the road and will have their hands full with a Cardinals team that’s already beaten them this year. Game one features a great pitching matchup: Tyler Glasnow vs. Sonny Gray, two veterans who have been around since 2011 and still have plenty in the tank. For the Dodgers this is about bouncing back and building momentum at home. For St. Louis it’s a chance to grab another statement win and stay relevant in a crowded NL race.
Mariners at Rangers (Aug 5–7)
One of the week’s best matchups is in Texas where Jacob deGrom is expected to start for the Rangers against the visiting Mariners. deGrom has looked more and more like himself lately but will be tested by Seattle’s young core, especially Julio Rodríguez who just made history with his fourth straight 20/20 season.
Orioles at Phillies (Aug 4)
It’s just one game but Orioles at Phillies on MLB´s Monday night is the Free Game of the Day and it’s one to watch. Baltimore has been one of the most fun young teams in the league and now they’re running into a Phillies team that’s retooling their bullpen around new closer Jhoan Durán. The flamethrower threw the fastest pitch in Citizens Bank Park history and the Phillies are hoping he can shut down some close games down the stretch.
Astros at Red Sox (Aug 8)
Friday night at Fenway has some extra juice. Carlos Correa is back in an Astros uniform after the Deadline deal and he’s facing a Red Sox team that’s trying to stay above the Wild Card line. Houston should send Hunter Brown to the mound, and for Boston it should be Cooper Criswell. Both teams need wins, so it should be electric from the get-go.
