This week, Truist Park takes center stage in what has become the most pivotal series of the 2024 MLB regular season. The Atlanta Braves are set to host the New York Mets in a high-stakes, three-game series that could determine the fates of both clubs as they vie for one of the remaining postseason spots.
The National League has whittled down to a fierce battle among four teams for three precious wildcard spots. For the Braves, the scenario is particularly dire—while they remain in contention, a slip-up against the Mets could jeopardize their playoff dreams, especially given their less favorable position compared to the Arizona Diamondbacks and others.
Weather Worries and Rotational Roulette
As if the stakes weren't high enough, a potential hurricane is barreling toward the region, threatening to add another layer of complexity to this already crucial series. However, both teams remain laser-focused, having adapted their strategies accordingly. The Mets, for instance, have tactically adjusted their rotation to delay Jose Quintana's start to Friday, capitalizing on Monday’s off-day.
Game one, set for Tuesday, Sept. 24 at 7:20 p.m. ET, will feature a dramatic face-off between Mets’ right-hander Luis Severino and Braves’ Spencer Schwellenbach. Following this, the subsequent games will see accomplished left-handers David Peterson and Chris Sale clashing on Wednesday, and Sean Manaea battling Max Fried on Thursday.
High Stakes and Historical Echoes
History adds an extra layer of tension to this series. Two years ago, the Braves swept the Mets in a similar setting, causing the Mets to relinquish their grip on first place in the NL East. The memory of that dramatic turn of events lingers heavily over this year's encounters, emphasizing the critical nature of each game. As Sean Murphy succinctly put it, "You knew it a couple weeks ago, right? That series is probably gonna help decide this thing."
For the Braves, a sweep of the Mets is far from a guaranteed wildcard berth. Other variables, like the Arizona Diamondbacks' performance against the San Francisco Giants, will also play a significant role. Conversely, if the Mets manage to win just two out of the three games, their postseason ticket will be irrevocably punched.
Emerging Stars and Lingering Injuries
The Braves are currently buoyed by strong performances from unexpected quarters. Rookie Luisangel Acuña has been remarkable at shortstop in Francisco Lindor’s absence, boasting an impressive .409 batting average, complete with two doubles, a triple, and three home runs. Meanwhile, veteran Jose Iglesias has stepped up to the plate, literally and figuratively, hitting .467 since assuming leadoff and second base roles due to Jeff McNeil’s wrist injury. Lindor remains hopeful for a return this season, though he concedes he may not be pain-free.
The Mets, however, have had their share of struggles. JD Martinez and Mark Vientos have been less than stellar lately, adding to the team's challenges. Yet, they've also seen significant contributions from other key players. Ramón Laureano and Whit Merrifield have proved invaluable to the Mets' lineup in September, and Marcell Ozuna has been hitting at a scorching .329/.417/.425 clip for the Braves during the same period.
Upcoming Challenges
After this crucial series, the road does not get any easier for either team. The Mets will travel to Milwaukee for a showdown against the Brewers, who have already clinched the NL Central and are now gunning for a Wild Card Series bye. The Braves, on the other hand, will face the Kansas City Royals at home. Intriguingly, the Royals are also in a tight wildcard race, making Game 162 a potential win-or-go-home situation for both teams.
As the Braves and Mets prepare to clash, the drama and tension are palpable. Every pitch, every hit, and every decision could tip the balance. Given the backdrop of previous encounters and the high stakes involved, baseball fans are in for an exhilarating ride. Indeed, the outcome of this series might just carve out some of the most memorable moments in the 2024 MLB season.