Critical Braves-Mets Series Set to Define 2024 Postseason Horizon
This week marks perhaps the most crucial showdown of the 2024 MLB regular season as the Atlanta Braves host the New York Mets for a decisive three-game series at Truist Park. Both teams find themselves in a high-stakes battle, with one possible postseason spot hanging in the balance. Every game from here could be the difference between playing in October or packing it up after Game 162.
Weather and Wild-Card Watch
Adding an element of unpredictability, a potential hurricane is bearing down on the region. Despite this, both teams need to remain focused as every win and loss could dramatically alter the NL wild-card standings. With all other National League teams behind Atlanta eliminated from the wild-card race, the battle has boiled down to a four-team fight for three coveted postseason spots.
History and High Stakes
Two years ago, the Braves swept the Mets in the penultimate series of the regular season, causing the Mets to lose their grip on first place in the NL East. This year's matchup holds even greater stakes, and players are acutely aware of the gravity of each game.
“You knew it a couple weeks ago, right? That series is probably gonna help decide this thing,” commented Braves catcher Sean Murphy. “We know what we’re up against and we know what we gotta do.”
Pitching Matchups and Moves
The series kicks off on Tuesday, Sept. 24 at 7:20 p.m. ET with a duel between right-handers Luis Severino of the Mets and Spencer Schwellenbach of the Braves. The next two games feature matchups of accomplished left-handers: David Peterson against Chris Sale on Wednesday, followed by Sean Manaea versus Max Fried on Thursday. The Mets adjusted their rotation, using Monday's off-day to bump Jose Quintana’s start back to Friday, ensuring Severino, Peterson, and Manaea could face the Braves.
Lineup Adjustments
In addition to the strategic maneuvering of the pitching staff, the Mets have seen impressive performances from unexpected sources. Rookie Luisangel Acuña has been stellar at shortstop, hitting .409 with two doubles, a triple, and three home runs since stepping in for Francisco Lindor. Veteran Jose Iglesias has also been a surprise, batting .467 since taking over the leadoff spot and second base duties, owing to Jeff McNeil’s wrist injury.
“Lindor is optimistic he will play again this season, though he acknowledged he is unlikely to do so pain-free,” says an article attributed to Lindor, as the Mets continue performing well despite his absence.
Atlanta's Uphill Battle
For the Braves, their path to the postseason is clear but challenging. Even a sweep of the Mets will not clinch a wild-card spot this series, especially if the Arizona Diamondbacks lose their games against the San Francisco Giants. They will have to wait until the weekend to possibly secure a berth. Conversely, if the Mets win two games in this series, their postseason ticket will be punched. However, the Braves won't necessarily be eliminated; they could still surpass Arizona depending on the outcomes of the final games.
Final Countdown
Atlanta's lineup has seen mixed performances in September. Marcell Ozuna has been a highlight, slashing .329/.417/.425, while others like JD Martinez and Mark Vientos have struggled. The Braves have benefited from contributions by replacements Ramón Laureano and Whit Merrifield to offset lagging performances from other key players.
The Mets will head to Milwaukee to face the Brewers after this series. The Brewers have clinched the NL Central and are now looking to secure a Wild Card Series bye, thus shifting their focus to rest and avoiding injuries. Meanwhile, the Braves will stay home for a three-game series against the Kansas City Royals, who are also in a tight wild-card race. The stage is set for Game 162 to be a potential win-or-go-home situation for both the Braves and Royals.
Conclusion
As this defining series kicks off, both teams are fully aware of what’s on the line. “Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose, and sometimes it rains,” goes a saying often attributed to the unpredictability of baseball. With all eyes on Truist Park, the bravery of the Braves and the might of the Mets will be tested to their limits in a series that could echo throughout the postseason.