Atlanta Braves: Why is the game delayed| Rain Delay| What channel

Introduction

Baseball fans eagerly await every Atlanta Braves game, whether it’s at the iconic Truist Park or an away showdown with a fierce rival. However, weather and broadcasting logistics can sometimes interfere with the excitement. One common question fans ask during the MLB season is: Why is the Atlanta Braves game delayed? Whether it’s due to a rain delay, technical issues, or scheduling adjustments, such delays can be frustrating for viewers.

In this article, we will explore the top reasons behind Braves game delays, how rain impacts MLB scheduling, what channels to watch the Braves on, and what you can do to stay updated.

Why Is the Atlanta Braves Game Delayed?

1. Rain Delay — The Most Common Culprit

The most frequent reason for an Atlanta Braves game being delayed is inclement weather, especially rain.

How Rain Affects MLB Games:

• Unlike other sports, MLB games are rarely played in heavy rain.

• The risk of player injury on a wet field and difficulty in controlling the ball often prompt officials to delay or postpone.

• Groundskeepers cover the infield with a tarp to protect the dirt areas during rain.

• Umpires and league officials consult Doppler radar and weather forecasts to determine whether it’s safe to resume or reschedule the game.

Notable Rain Delay Examples:

• August 1, 2023: Braves vs. Angels was delayed for 2 hours due to thunderstorms over Truist Park.

• May 25, 2022: Game vs. Phillies was postponed entirely and rescheduled as part of a doubleheader.

2. Lightning Delays

Even if rain is light, lightning can cause significant delays. MLB has strict safety protocols requiring a pause if lightning is detected within a certain radius.

3. Field Conditions

Rain the previous night can leave the field unplayable even if it’s sunny today. Soggy outfields or a muddy infield can delay the start.

4. Travel and Logistical Delays

Sometimes delays happen because a team’s travel plans are disrupted due to:

• Weather-related flight cancellations.

• Delayed equipment transportation.

• Issues at the host stadium (e.g., power outages).

5. Broadcast Schedule Conflicts

National broadcast commitments may cause a game to start later than expected, especially when:

• ESPN, FOX, or TBS is airing a previous game that runs long.

• A doubleheader game from earlier in the day goes into extra innings.

How Are MLB Rain Delays Decided?

Contrary to common belief, the home team makes the call to delay or start the game before the first pitch. After the game starts, the umpiring crew takes full control of delay decisions.

Pre-Game:

• Home team officials assess weather patterns and consult meteorologists.

• They aim to avoid fan inconvenience while protecting player safety.

In-Game:

• If rain begins mid-game, the crew chief umpire evaluates safety, visibility, and fairness.

What Happens During a Braves Rain Delay?

During a rain delay:

• Fans may stay in the stadium or watch live weather updates on TV.

• Broadcast networks usually switch to studio analysts or show replays/highlights.

• Players remain in the clubhouse and await updates.

• Some fans turn to social media for real-time information.

Tip: Follow the Braves’ official Twitter account (@Braves) and MLB app notifications for updates.

What Channel Is the Atlanta Braves Game On?

Watching the Braves can get confusing due to multiple broadcast partners.

1. Bally Sports South & Bally Sports Southeast

These are the regional sports networks (RSNs) that carry most Braves games.

• Bally Sports South: Primary home for Braves in Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, South Carolina, and Tennessee.

• Bally Sports Southeast: Occasionally used for select games.

• You can stream it via Bally Sports+ (subscription required).

2. MLB.TV

• Great for out-of-market fans.

• Subscription-based, with options for single-team packages.

• Games on national TV (e.g., ESPN or FOX) may be blacked out locally.

3. National Broadcasts

Some Braves games air on national channels:

• FOX (Saturday primetime)

• ESPN (Sunday Night Baseball)

• TBS (Tuesday night matchups)

• Apple TV+ and Peacock (exclusive MLB streaming deals)

Tip: Always check the Braves game schedule or TV guide before the game day to know the correct channel.

How to Stream Atlanta Braves Games

Cord-cutters have multiple options:

1. Bally Sports App

• Watch live games if your cable provider supports Bally Sports.

• Also available via Bally Sports+ (no cable required).

2. MLB.TV

• Best for fans living outside the Braves’ home market.

• Allows streaming on mobile, smart TVs, and game consoles.

3. FuboTV, DirecTV Stream, YouTube TV

• Only DirecTV Stream’s “Choice” plan carries Bally Sports RSNs.

• Check whether your streaming provider carries your local Bally affiliate.

Recent Braves Game Delays and Fan Reactions

Fans often take to social media to express frustration or confusion when games are delayed. Some examples include:

Example 1: April 2024 — Braves vs. Mets

• Rain delayed the game by 90 minutes.

• Many fans complained about lack of updates from broadcasters.

• Braves issued statements on Twitter and the MLB Ballpark App.

Example 2: June 2023 — Braves vs. Nationals

• Game postponed due to poor air quality from Canadian wildfires.

• Fans appreciated the early announcement and ticket exchange options.

How Do Fans Get Updates on Game Delays?

Here’s how to stay informed about delays:

Can Braves Games Be Rescheduled Due to Rain?

Yes, here’s what happens if a game is postponed:

1. Doubleheaders

• MLB often reschedules postponed games as part of a doubleheader the next day.

• These can be split (separate tickets) or traditional (single admission).

2. Rescheduling Later in the Season

• Sometimes, if the teams meet again later, the game is rescheduled for that series.

3. Game Cancellation

• Rare but possible if the game doesn’t impact playoff scenarios late in the season.

Ticket Policy During Rain Delays

If you’ve purchased tickets to a delayed or postponed Braves game:

• Rain Delays: You must wait; if the game resumes the same day, your ticket is valid.

• Postponements: You will typically receive a credit or reissued ticket for the makeup game.

• Resale Buyers: Check the platform’s refund policy (e.g., StubHub, SeatGeek).

FAQs

Q: How long is a typical rain delay?

A: It can range from 30 minutes to over 3 hours. MLB tries to resume play as soon as it’s safe.

Q: Can I get a refund if the Braves game is delayed?

A: No refunds for delays, only for postponed games. Tickets are valid for the rescheduled date.

Q: Where can I watch updates live?

A: Tune into Bally Sports South, follow @Braves on Twitter, or check the MLB app.

Q: Does MLB ever play in the rain?

A: Light drizzle might be allowed, but games are usually paused or delayed during heavier rain or lightning.

Conclusion

Whether it’s a summer thunderstorm over Truist Park or a scheduling conflict on ESPN, there are many reasons why an Atlanta Braves game is delayed. As frustrating as it may be, these delays are often necessary to ensure the safety of the players and integrity of the game. The key is to stay informed through the Braves’ official channels and always check your local listings for the correct broadcast channel.

For hardcore fans, missing a pitch can be agonizing. But armed with the right information—weather forecasts, channel listings, and streaming options—you’ll always be prepared, rain or shine.