So, you’re looking for the score of the Braves game last night. I get it. We’re all itching for that Tomahawk Chop to echo through Truist Park again. But here’s the thing: it’s January 17, 2026. If you’re checking the MLB standings, you’re going to find a whole lot of nothing but transaction logs and stadium renovation updates.
The Atlanta Braves—our 2021 World Champs and perennial NL East powerhouses—are currently in the heart of the "Hot Stove" season. They didn't play last night. Unless, of course, you're talking about a different set of Braves altogether.
The score of the Braves game last night wasn't on a diamond
If you were following the Bradley University Braves women's basketball team, they actually had a massive night on Friday, January 16. They rolled into Des Moines and took down the Drake Bulldogs with a final score of 71-64. It was a statement win. They snapped a nasty nine-game losing streak against Drake. Honestly, it was a gritty performance. Freshman Mya Foz led the charge with 17 points, and the team really locked down in the second half to erase a five-point deficit.
Maybe you’re a hockey fan? The Spokane Braves (KIJHL) were scheduled to hit the ice against the Castlegar Rebels last night. In those junior leagues, things get rowdy fast. Or perhaps you were looking for the Ottawa University Braves? Their women's basketball team was resting up for a big matchup against Bethel College today after a solid win against Oklahoma Wesleyan earlier in the week.
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But let's be real. Most people asking about the "score of the Braves game last night" are looking for Blooper, Spencer Strider, and Ronald Acuña Jr.
When do the real Atlanta Braves actually play?
We’ve still got some waiting to do. The Atlanta Braves 2026 Opening Day is set for Thursday, March 26. They’ll be at home in Truist Park taking on the Kansas City Royals. It’s actually pretty rare for them to open at home—only the third time since the new stadium opened.
Before that, we have Spring Training. Pitchers and catchers usually report in mid-February. The first Spring Training game is slated for February 21, 2026, against the Tampa Bay Rays at Charlotte Sports Park.
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- February 21: @ Rays (Spring Training opener)
- February 22: vs Twins (Home opener in North Port)
- March 26: vs Royals (The real deal)
The 2026 off-season moves you actually need to know
Even though there wasn't a score last night, the front office hasn't been sleeping. Alex Anthopoulos has been doing his usual "ninja" moves.
Just a few days ago, on January 10, the Braves brought back reliever Tyler Kinley on a one-year, $4.25 million deal. It’s a classic Braves move. They declined his $5.5 million option earlier in the winter, let him hit the market, and then scooped him back up on a more team-friendly contract. Kinley was lights-out after coming over from Colorado at the last trade deadline, posting a ridiculous 0.72 ERA in his final 25 innings.
They also signed Tristin English to a minor-league deal on January 13. He’s a corner infield/outfield depth piece who briefly saw the bigs with Arizona last year. Don't expect him to start, but he's exactly the kind of "break glass in case of injury" player winning teams need.
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Why the "Score" doesn't tell the whole story
People obsess over the final number, but in January, the "score" is really about the 40-man roster. Right now, the Braves are sitting in a weird spot in the NL East. Looking back at the 2025 season, the Phillies took the division with 96 wins, while the Braves ended up at 76-86.
Yeah, it was a rough year. Injuries, man. They’re a beast.
But that’s why the score of the Braves game last night doesn't exist yet—the team is rebuilding the engine. They’ve designated guys like Ken Waldichuk and Vidal Brujan for assignment recently to make room for fresh arms like George Soriano. It’s a constant churn.
What should you do now?
If you're missing Braves baseball, the best thing to do is start planning your trip to North Port for Spring Training or grab those Opening Day tickets while they’re still under $100. Truist Park is going to be rocking come March.
Actionable Next Steps:
- Check the Spring Training Calendar: Put February 21 on your phone's calendar so you don't miss the first televised pitch from Florida.
- Review the 40-Man Roster: Keep an eye on the waiver wire. The Braves have been very active this week, and more bullpen depth is likely coming.
- Set Score Alerts: If you actually wanted the Bradley University score, set your ESPN or Bleacher Report alerts specifically for "NCAA Women's Basketball" to avoid the MLB confusion next time.
- Opening Day Prep: If you're going to the March 26 game against the Royals, start looking at parking passes now—Truist Park parking is a nightmare if you wait until the last minute.