This week's MLB showdown promises a gripping conclusion to the regular season as the Atlanta Braves take on the New York Mets in a decisive three-game series at Truist Park. With postseason hopes hanging in the balance, both teams are gearing up for what could be the most critical set of games in the 2024 campaign.
The National League wild-card race has boiled down to four teams vying for three coveted spots, with all other teams behind Atlanta already eliminated. The stakes are high, and the pressure is palpable as each game could tip the scales in favor of either team.
The anticipated series kicks off on Tuesday, Sept. 24 at 7:20 p.m. ET, featuring a right-handed duel between Luis Severino of the Mets and Spencer Schwellenbach of the Braves. The following games promise equally thrilling matchups with left-handers David Peterson facing Chris Sale on Wednesday and Sean Manaea going up against Max Fried on Thursday.
The Mets, keen on maximizing their rotation’s potential, have adjusted their pitching sequence, pushing Jose Quintana’s start back to Friday following Monday's off-day. This strategic move reflects the high stakes the Mets face as they aim to clinch their postseason spot.
On the offensive side, the Mets have been buoyed by the resurgence of rookie Luisangel Acuña, who has been exceptional at shortstop, hitting .409 with two doubles, a triple, and three home runs since stepping in for the injured Francisco Lindor. Veteran Jose Iglesias has also stepped up, batting .467 since assuming the leadoff spot and second base duties due to Jeff McNeil’s wrist injury.
Despite his injury, Lindor remains optimistic about returning this season, albeit possibly not pain-free. His presence could be a significant morale boost for the Mets as they navigate these pivotal games.
Braves' Efforts and Challenges
For the Braves, even a series sweep over the Mets won't guarantee a wild-card spot this week, especially if the Arizona Diamondbacks lose their concurrent games against the San Francisco Giants. However, winning two games would secure the Mets' postseason berth.
Notably, the Braves won't be entirely out of the playoff picture if the Mets win two games; they could still surpass Arizona based on the outcomes of the final matchups. Braves' players Marcell Ozuna, Ramón Laureano, and Whit Merrifield, who have made key contributions in September, will be crucial in their quest for wins.
Ozuna has particularly been in fine form, slashing .329/.417/.425 this month. However, JD Martinez and Mark Vientos have struggled, which could be a point of concern for the Braves as they look to create offensive opportunities against the Mets' formidable pitching.
Historical Context and Future Games
The memory of two years ago lingers when the Braves swept the Mets in the penultimate series of the regular season, costing the Mets their grip on first place in the NL East. As Sean Murphy astutely noted, “You knew it a couple weeks ago, right? That series is probably gonna help decide this thing.”
After this crucial series, the Mets will travel to Milwaukee to face the Brewers, who have already clinched the NL Central title and now aim to secure a Wild Card Series bye. Meanwhile, the Braves will stay home for a three-game series against the Kansas City Royals, who are also fighting tooth and nail in a tight wild-card race.
The drama may escalate as the regular season winds down, with Game 162 potentially serving as a win-or-go-home scenario for both the Braves and Royals. Such high-stakes games are what make baseball's stretch run exhilarating, as every pitch, swing, and catch can dramatically alter postseason destinies.
A potential hurricane poses another layer of unpredictability, as weather conditions may influence the scheduling and outcomes of these critical clashes. With so many variables in play, fans can expect an intense and dynamic conclusion to the 2024 MLB regular season.