This week, baseball fans are in for a treat as the Atlanta Braves host the New York Mets for a critical three-game series at Truist Park, marking what some consider the pinnacle of the 2024 MLB regular season. With only one likely postseason spot up for grabs, the stakes couldn’t be higher, particularly with a looming hurricane threatening the region.
The showdown blossoms against a backdrop where all other competitors in the National League behind Atlanta have already been eliminated from the wild-card race. Consequently, the battle narrows to a tense four-team skirmish for three highly sought-after postseason berths.
Reflecting on History
Notably, this series reignites memories from two years ago when the Braves executed a sweep against the Mets in the penultimate series of the regular season. This decisive action saw the Mets lose their grip on first place in the NL East. Will history repeat itself, or will the Mets forge a different path this time?
Crucial Pitching Matchups
The series sparks off on Tuesday, September 24, at 7:20 p.m. ET with an anticipated pitching duel between right-handers Luis Severino of the Mets and Spencer Schwellenbach of the Braves. This matchup sets the tone for the following games, featuring accomplished left-handers: Wednesday will showcase David Peterson against Chris Sale, followed by Thursday’s face-off between Sean Manaea and Max Fried.
Interestingly, the Mets have strategically adjusted their rotation, leveraging Monday’s off-day to push Jose Quintana’s start to Friday, emphasizing the criticality of each game’s outcome. Meanwhile, the Braves have their own assets to deploy, like rookie Luisangel Acuña, who has flourished in Francisco Lindor's absence, hitting .409 with two doubles, a triple, and three home runs.
Injuries and Impact Players
Injuries continue to play a significant role in the dynamics of both teams. Veteran Jose Iglesias has stepped up notably, batting .467 since taking over leadoff responsibilities and second base duties due to Jeff McNeil’s wrist injury. Conversely, Lindor remains hopeful to return this season, albeit accepting that playing without pain might not be feasible.
The Braves, buoyed by contributions from Marcell Ozuna, who has been outstanding in September slashing .329/.417/.425, and teammates Ramón Laureano and Whit Merrifield, remain formidable despite their fluctuating fortunes. The Mets, however, have experienced struggles from JD Martinez and Mark Vientos this month, which could weigh heavily as the series progresses.
Series Stakes
Even a sweep by the Braves won’t guarantee them a wild-card spot, especially contingent upon Arizona's performance against the San Francisco Giants. Conversely, if the Mets manage two wins, their ticket to the postseason will be secured. Still, the Braves wouldn't be entirely out of the running, depending on the final stretch outcomes vis-a-vis the Diamondbacks.
Post-Series Outlook
Following this vital series, the Mets will head to Milwaukee to square off against the Brewers. The Brewers, having already clinched the NL Central, now focus on securing a Wild Card Series bye. The Braves, on the other hand, will stay home for a three-game series with the Kansas City Royals, who are also neck-deep in the wild-card race, setting the stage for what could be a make-or-break Game 162 for both Atlanta and Kansas City.
“You knew it a couple weeks ago, right? That series is probably gonna help decide this thing,” said Braves’ player Sean Murphy, accurately encapsulating the high-stakes atmosphere that resonates with players and fans alike.
For baseball aficionados, this week promises a rollercoaster of emotions with every pitch, swing, and catch carrying potential postseason implications. As the Braves and Mets lock horns once more, every moment will count in this exhilarating climax to the 2024 MLB regular season.