The Atlanta Braves are back in action for Game 2 of their series against the Chicago Cubs, and they're looking to build on the momentum from yesterday's dominant performance—a one-hitter that had Braves Country buzzing. With rookie JR Ritchie taking the mound, the team is rolling out a fresh offensive lineup aimed at securing an early series win.

One question on everyone's mind: Where's Dominic Smith? While Ronald Acuña Jr. remains sidelined with a hamstring injury, Manager Walt Weiss has been shuffling the right field duties, and so far, the adjustments are paying off. Still, fans are eager to see their heavy-hitter back in the starting roster, especially after his consistent production at the plate.

Tonight's lineup features Mauricio Dubón leading off, with veteran catcher Sandy León stepping into the starting role behind the plate. Drake Baldwin will serve as the designated hitter in the two-hole. Both Dubón and León will be facing Cubs starter Shota Imanaga for the first time, but four Braves hitters—Ozzie Albies, José Azocar, Baldwin, and Matt Olson—have all posted a 1.000 OPS or better against the lefty, giving Atlanta a clear edge in experience.

The rest of the lineup mirrors yesterday's successful formula, with a few tweaks to accommodate the new leadoff man. After a solid win in Game 1, the offense is hungry to make a bigger statement against a Cubs team that's leading its division and known for getting hot at the right moments. To avoid a revenge rally from Chicago, the Braves will need to strike early, rattle Imanaga, and set the tone with their bats.

As for Acuña, he's continuing his rehab drills at Truist Park to test his strained left hamstring. According to Braves insider Grant McAuley, he's shown good progress and is eligible to come off the IL today, but the club hasn't set an exact return date yet. Stay tuned—Braves Country might not have to wait much longer for their superstar's comeback.