2021 World Series preview: Five storylines to watch in Astros vs. Braves matchup

MLB NEWS

The Atlanta Braves and the Houston Astros will kick off the 2021 World Series on Tuesday night. The Astros possess home-field advantage by virtue of having a better regular season record, meaning Games 1 and 2 will be played at Minute Maid Park in Houston. (Games 3 through 5 will be hosted at Truist Park.)

The Braves, appearing in their first World Series since 1999, reached this point by first defeating the Milwaukee Brewers in four games in the National League Division Series. The Braves then outlasted the Los Angeles Dodgers, the reigning champions, in a six-game series that avenged Atlanta’s loss in last year’s NL Championship Series. The Braves are in pursuit of their second World Series title since moving to Atlanta.

The Astros, meanwhile, are competing in their third World Series in five years. Houston knocked off the Chicago White Sox in four games during the American League Division Series. The Astros then out-slugged the Boston Red Sox in six games in the ALCS. The Astros are seeking their second ever championship.