Blake Snell's long-awaited season debut didn't go according to plan, as the Atlanta Braves handed the Los Angeles Dodgers a decisive 7-2 defeat in a matchup that had all the makings of a postseason preview.

The left-hander, who had been building up through three rehab starts in the minors, was originally scheduled for one more tune-up with Single-A Ontario. But the Dodgers changed course on Friday, opting to fast-track Snell into the rotation for their series opener against Atlanta. To clear a roster spot, Los Angeles placed right-hander Brock Stewart on the Injured List with a left foot bone spur.

Taking the mound for the first time since Game Seven of the 2025 World Series, Snell faced one of baseball's most dangerous lineups. Manager Dave Roberts had hoped for five innings and 75 pitches from his southpaw, but Snell fell short of both marks, lasting just three innings while throwing 77 pitches.

The trouble started early. Snell loaded the bases with no outs in the first inning and, though he managed to escape with only one run allowed, the Braves were just getting started. In the second frame, Atlanta again loaded the bases against Snell—and this time, they made him pay.

Ozzie Albies delivered a two-run single to left field, and Matt Olson followed with a two-run single of his own, capping a five-run inning that effectively ended the game. Roberts sent Snell back out for a third inning, but the damage was done.

On the other side, the Dodgers' offense faced a tough test in Braves right-hander Spencer Strider, who was making his own season debut after returning from injury. Los Angeles struggled to generate consistent offense, managing just two runs on the night.

The loss continues an up-and-down stretch for the Dodgers, who will look to bounce back as this early-season series continues. For Snell, it's back to the drawing board as he works to find his rhythm against a Braves team that showed no mercy on his return to the big leagues.