Major League Baseball (MLB) has announced the postponement of two games between the Atlanta Braves and the New York Mets, as Hurricane Helene approaches the Atlanta area. Originally slated for Wednesday and Thursday, these crucial games have been rescheduled as a doubleheader on Monday, but only if postseason implications warrant it.
The New York Mets, currently holding an 87-70 record, have secured the National League’s No. 5 seed. Meanwhile, the Atlanta Braves are clinging to postseason hopes, trailing just a half-game behind Arizona for the final NL wild-card spot. Given the stakes, the decision to postpone the games was not made lightly.
The Decision to Postpone
MLB’s choice to delay the games underscores the unpredictable impact of Hurricane Helene on the region. Although the Braves had initial resistance to rescheduling, citing expected large crowds and logistical challenges, the safety concerns took precedence. Truist Park, which hosted 40,103 fans for Tuesday’s series opener—a game Atlanta won 5-1—will now have to wait for Monday or possibly later to host the postponed matchups.
A source revealed to the New York Post, “The Braves balked at moving any games this series because they were expecting large crowds at Truist Park.” This sentiment was echoed by personnel involved in the discussions who indicated the Braves were keen on maintaining their expected attendance. "They did not want to forego the gates nor work through the logistics of moving personnel such as security, concessionaires, etc., to other dates or start times," said another insider with knowledge of the situation.
Teams’ Upcoming Schedules
The Mets will now focus on their imminent three-game series against the Milwaukee Brewers this weekend. Meanwhile, the Braves are set to face the Kansas City Royals at home. Should the need arise, the Mets would need to return to Atlanta for the doubleheader, a logistical twist adding another layer to an already packed schedule.
These rescheduled games could potentially be the tipping point for postseason dynamics. An unnamed source highlighted the pivotal nature of the makeup games: "The games will only be played if there are postseason implications, but that seems likely as things stand."
Blame or Necessity?
Amidst these developments, there has been some dissatisfaction with MLB’s handling of the postponement. “Ultimately, the blame for any weather issues during these important games Wednesday and Thursday falls on MLB. The league has the final say,” critiqued sources close to the matter. Yet, given the fierce competition for playoff spots, the decision to move the games might just provide clearer skies—and safer conditions—for this critical series.
The outcome of these postponed games could be decisive. For the Braves, they are a half-game away from the final NL wild-card berth, making every contest a potential clincher. On the Mets’ side, maintaining their momentum could solidify their current standing.
As weather forecasts keep fans, teams, and MLB officials on edge, the priority remains the safety of players and spectators alike. Only time will tell if Hurricane Helene’s unpredictable path will allow these vital games to proceed sooner rather than later, or if they’ll ultimately have an indelible impact on the 2023 MLB postseason picture.