This week promises a high-stakes showdown as the Atlanta Braves host the New York Mets for a decisive three-game series at Truist Park. With both teams eyeing a coveted postseason spot, the intensity is palpable. Adding to the drama is an impending hurricane looming over the region, potentially complicating an already critical matchup.
All other National League teams trailing Atlanta have been eliminated from the wild-card race, narrowing the field to a tense four-team battle. This series carries echoes of a similar situation two years ago when the Braves swept the Mets in the penultimate series of the regular season, a result that cost the Mets their grip on first place in the NL East. “You knew it a couple of weeks ago, right? That series is probably gonna help decide this thing,” noted Sean Murphy, emphasizing the stakes.
The Rivalry Renewed
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. Wednesday and Thursday will feature matchups of seasoned left-handers: David Peterson against Chris Sale, and Sean Manaea versus Max Fried, respectively. The Mets, taking advantage of Monday's off-day, have adjusted their rotation, pushing Jose Quintana’s start back to Friday, ensuring their top arms are fresh for this critical series.
Both teams have had to navigate a slew of injuries. Rookie Luisangel Acuña has been brilliant stepping in at shortstop for Francisco Lindor, hitting .409 with extra-base power, including two doubles, a triple, and three home runs. Veteran Jose Iglesias has thrived in the leadoff spot, batting .467 while covering second base in Jeff McNeil’s absence due to a wrist injury. Lindor himself is hopeful to return before the season concludes, although he admits playing pain-free may not be realistic.
High Stakes and Critical Performances
The Braves, hosting this crucial series, won’t secure their wild-card spot even with a series sweep if the Diamondbacks falter against the San Francisco Giants. However, if the Mets manage two wins, their ticket to the postseason will be assured. The Braves, should they lose two games, are not necessarily out of contention. They could still surpass Arizona depending on the outcomes in these finals games.
Several Braves players have risen to the occasion in September. Marcell Ozuna has been on a hot streak, slashing .329/.417/.425. Conversely, JD Martinez and Mark Vientos have struggled, making it imperative for other players to step up. Ramón Laureano and Whit Merrifield have provided crucial contributions, bolstering the Braves’ lineup during this critical stretch.
Upcoming Challenges
After this series, the Mets will head to Milwaukee to face the Brewers, who have already clinched the NL Central and are now vying for a Wild Card Series bye. Meanwhile, the Braves will stay home to face the Kansas City Royals in another three-game series. The Royals are also in a tight wild-card race, ensuring that both sets of games will be pivotal. The season's final game could emerge as a win-or-go-home scenario for both the Braves and Royals, adding another layer of drama to an already thrilling conclusion.
This series at Truist Park, set against a backdrop of high drama and potential weather disruptions, could be the defining moment that sets the postseason tone. As the stakes rise, both the Braves and Mets know that every game, every pitch, and every play will be scrutinized and critical in their hunt for a postseason berth.