This week brings a pivotal moment in the 2024 MLB regular season, with the Atlanta Braves hosting the New York Mets at Truist Park for a crucial three-game series. Stakes are at an all-time high as both clubs vie for a possible postseason berth.
A High-Stakes Battle
The postseason race is tight, boiling down to a four-team scramble for three coveted spots. All other National League teams trailing Atlanta have been eliminated from the wild-card race, leaving this series as potentially decisive. Recalling two years ago, the Braves swept the Mets in the penultimate series, stripping New York of their top spot in the NL East. That memory lingers as the series opens on Tuesday, Sept. 24 at 7:20 p.m. ET.
Starting game one will be right-handers Luis Severino for the Mets and Spencer Schwellenbach for the Braves. The next two matchups feature seasoned left-handers David Peterson against Chris Sale on Wednesday, followed by Sean Manaea versus Max Fried on Thursday.
Hurricane Threat and Rotational Tweaks
Adding another layer of complexity is the shadow of a potential hurricane threatening the region. The Mets have adjusted their rotation, leveraging Monday's off-day to push Jose Quintana’s start to Friday. Rookie standout Luisangel Acuña has seamlessly filled in for the injured Francisco Lindor, hitting .409 with two doubles, a triple, and three home runs. In the absence of Jeff McNeil, veteran Jose Iglesias has been exceptional, batting .467 since stepping into the leadoff and second base spots.
Postseason Scenarios
Even if the Braves sweep the Mets, they won't clinch a wild-card spot this series, especially if the Arizona Diamondbacks falter against the San Francisco Giants. A different narrative plays out if the Mets claim two victories in this series, guaranteeing their postseason ticket. However, the Braves wouldn't necessarily be out—if they surpass Arizona in the final games, their postseason hopes stay alive.
Performance Metrics
Marcell Ozuna has been a linchpin for the Braves in September, slashing .329/.417/.425. Conversely, JD Martinez and Mark Vientos have struggled during the same period. Contributions from Ramón Laureano and Whit Merrifield have bolstered Atlanta’s lineup, indicating a comprehensive team effort in the crunch.
The Road Ahead
Post this series, the Mets will head to Milwaukee to face the Brewers, who have not only clinched the NL Central but are also eyeing a Wild Card Series bye. The Braves, however, will stay home for a three-game set against the Kansas City Royals, another team embroiled in a tight wild-card race. The outcome of Game 162 could likely be a win-or-go-home situation for both the Braves and Royals, making every moment on the field a critical one.
A Quote on the Pressure
The intensity and the importance of this series haven't been lost on the players. "You knew it a couple weeks ago, right? That series is probably gonna help decide this thing,” noted Braves catcher Sean Murphy.
With so much on the line, the baseball world will be keeping a watchful eye on Truist Park this week. As the Braves and Mets clash, the stakes go beyond just wins and losses—they're playing for the right to continue their journey towards October glory.