Brendan O’Sullivan dives into his pick and prediction for the Kansas City Royals vs. Atlanta Braves matchup on Sunday.
The Royals and Braves will play the third and final game of the opening series on Sunday, March 29 at 1:35 p.m. ET.
Atlanta is a -143 moneyline. favorite, while Kansas City is +119 on DraftKings Sportsbook. The game total is set at over/under eight runs.
Let’s get into a pick and prediction for this Royals vs. Braves game.
Royals vs. Braves prediction, preview
Seth Lugo will take the mound for the Royals on Sunday. The veteran right-hander is in his third season with Kansas City. He regressed last season, posting a 4.15 ERA in 145.1 innings after holding a 3.00 ERA across 206.2 innings in his first season with the team. His 2025 FIP was 5.09, which indicates he could’ve been a lot worse. That’s a bit concerning considering he’s entering his age-36 season.
That said, the righty has a track record of consistency throughout his career. Last year was the first full season (excluding 2020) that he had over a 4.00 ERA since 2017. It’s certainly possible that he rebounds in 2026.
Grant Holmes is starting for the Braves in his third professional season. He debuted in 2024, appearing in 26 games and seven starts, but he became a full-time starter in 2025. He pitched 115 innings with a 3.99 ERA and 4.40 FIP. There’s a lot less history to work with for Holmes as he’s fresh to the big leagues.
The Royals’ offense has been quiet through two games. They went scoreless in the first game, and didn’t score until the seventh inning in the second game. The Braves, however, scored six in back-to-back contests.
Royals vs. Braves Pick, Best Bet
The Royals offense hasn’t woken up yet, and it’s cost them two games. The Braves’ offense is thriving. After scoring six runs in the opener, they added another six runs in game two—all of which came in the ninth inning.
Atlanta is the favorite, and I think it comes away with a sweep.
Best Bet: Atlanta Braves ML (-143)