Returning to contention has been a primary focus for Braves President of Baseball Operations Alex Anthopoulos throughout the offseason. During his tenure, the Atlanta Braves have been a consistent postseason presence, though last season marked the organization’s first failure to reach October since 2017.
Following a flurry of offseason transactions, Braves fans are optimistic that the team can recapture the success of their memorable 2021 postseason run. According to one MLB.com writer, a similar championship-caliber performance remains a possibility for Atlanta.
In an MLB.com article published Saturday, their group of writers outlined five potential World Series rematch scenarios for 2026. While some scenarios are more far-fetched than others, one section focused on the possibility of a rematch of the 2021 World Series. The Braves famously defeated the Astros in six games that year, and with Atlanta having secured just two postseason victories since, a repeat of 2021 would certainly excite fans.
.@solerpower12 just hit one back to Atlanta!#BattleATL | #WorldSeries pic.twitter.com/3rwKVzVZG7
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) November 3, 2021
Braves-Astros World Series rematch not off the table in 2026
Jorge Soler’s majestic home run in Game Six remains a lasting memory for Braves fans. Yet few would object to creating similar moments in 2026. Both the Braves and Astros have experienced some setbacks—at least by their lofty standards—since their respective World Series victories. Following 2021, the Braves have struggled to replicate the postseason firepower that carried them to the title, while the Astros, after their 2022 championship, have seen several key contributors depart from their once-dominant, decade-long core.
That said, neither team is far from reclaiming its status among baseball’s elite franchises. Currently, the Braves boast a top-five roster based on FanGraphs WAR. While the Astros rank slightly lower, the AL West presents a more manageable path than navigating the National League.
Both teams will need improved health and strong bounce-back seasons from their supporting casts. However, the most significant factor in restoring these clubs to powerhouse status may be securing a full season from their star players, Ronald Acuña Jr. and Yordan Álvarez.
While a Braves–Astros rematch in the 2026 World Series may still be a long shot, the pieces are in place for both franchises to contend at the highest level. With talented rosters, key players returning to full health, and supporting casts ready to rebound, the potential for another memorable showdown between these two teams remains very much alive. If everything comes together, we could see a rematch—and hopefully even a repeat of the thrilling outcome from their first encounter.