This week marks a pivotal moment in the 2024 MLB regular season as the Atlanta Braves host the New York Mets for a decisive three-game series at Truist Park. The atmosphere is charged with high stakes, as only one potential postseason spot hangs in the balance, making this one of the most significant showdowns of the year.
Both teams are acutely aware of the gravity of the situation. All other National League teams behind Atlanta have been eliminated from the wild-card race, narrowing the battle down to a four-team fight for three coveted postseason spots. Adding to the tension, a potential hurricane is bearing down on the region, threatening to interfere with the series.
History Repeats?
The Braves have memories of a similar high-stakes series two years ago when they 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 history adds an extra layer of intensity to this year’s showdown.
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 following games feature intriguing matchups of accomplished left-handers: David Peterson against Chris Sale on Wednesday, followed by Sean Manaea versus Max Fried on Thursday.
Key Players and Strategies
The Mets have adjusted their rotation to optimize their chances, using Monday's off-day to push Jose Quintana’s start back to Friday. On the Braves side, 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, assuming the leadoff spot and second base duties due to Jeff McNeil’s wrist injury, has been batting an impressive .467.
Meanwhile, Lindor is optimistic about playing again this season, although he acknowledges that he is unlikely to do so without some pain. His return could offer a significant boost to the Mets as they make their final push for the postseason.
Postseason Implications
A sweep of the Mets will not necessarily clinch a wild-card spot for the Braves, especially if the Arizona Diamondbacks lose their games against the San Francisco Giants. Conversely, if the Mets win two games in this series, their postseason ticket will be punched. However, the Braves could still surpass Arizona depending on the outcomes of the final games, making every match critical.
The Braves have seen strong performances in September from Marcell Ozuna, who has slashed .329/.417/.425, and contributions from Ramón Laureano and Whit Merrifield. However, JD Martinez and Mark Vientos have struggled, adding another level of uncertainty to this high-pressure situation.
Upcoming Challenges
Following this pivotal series, the Mets will head to Milwaukee to face the Brewers, who have clinched the NL Central and are now looking to secure a Wild Card Series bye. The Braves will stay home for a three-game series against the Kansas City Royals, who are also in a tight wild-card race. This sets the stage for Game 162 to potentially become a win-or-go-home situation for both the Braves and the Royals.
Sean Murphy summed up the anticipation best: “You knew it a couple weeks ago, right? That series is probably gonna help decide this thing.” As both teams prepare to battle it out at Truist Park, fans and players alike understand that the path to the postseason may be determined over these crucial three games.