This week represents a pivotal moment in the 2024 MLB regular season as the Atlanta Braves prepare to host the New York Mets for a highly-anticipated three-game series at Truist Park. With one possible postseason spot up for grabs, the stakes could not be higher for both teams.
A significant twist to this narrative is the looming threat of a potential hurricane bearing down on the region, adding an element of unpredictability to an already tense showdown. Yet, this series remains the focal point of the National League's race for the playoffs, with all other teams behind Atlanta already eliminated from wild-card contention. The battle has essentially narrowed to a four-team fight for three coveted postseason spots.
Two years ago, a similar showdown saw the Braves sweep the Mets in the penultimate series of the regular season, costing the Mets their lead in the NL East. With history potentially repeating itself, this series holds even greater significance.
Game On
The series kicks off on Tuesday, Sept. 24, at 7:20 p.m. ET with a pitching duel between right-handers Luis Severino of the Mets and Spencer Schwellenbach of the Braves. The next two games will feature experienced left-handers: David Peterson will face Chris Sale on Wednesday, followed by Sean Manaea versus Max Fried on Thursday.
The Mets, in preparation for this critical series, adjusted their rotation, taking advantage of Monday's off-day to push Jose Quintana’s start back to Friday. This strategic move underscores the importance the Mets are placing on each game of this series.
Players to Watch
Rookie sensation Luisangel Acuña has been brilliant at shortstop, hitting an impressive .409 with two doubles, a triple, and three home runs in Francisco Lindor’s absence. Similarly, veteran Jose Iglesias has excelled since stepping into the leadoff spot and taking over second base duties due to Jeff McNeil’s wrist injury. Iglesias is currently batting a remarkable .467.
Francisco Lindor remains hopeful about returning this season, though he’s realistic about playing through pain should he manage to come back. His presence could be a game-changer for the Mets.
On the Braves' side, Marcell Ozuna has been a key contributor, slashing .329/.417/.425 this month. Conversely, JD Martinez and Mark Vientos have struggled in September, adding another layer of complexity to the team dynamics.
The Road Ahead
The consequences of this series are monumental. Even if the Braves manage to sweep the Mets, this alone won't clinch a wild-card spot for them, particularly if the Arizona Diamondbacks lose their games against the San Francisco Giants. However, if the Mets win two games in this series, they will secure their postseason ticket.
The Braves could still have a path to surpass Arizona depending on the outcomes of the final games, so their fate isn’t entirely sealed if they falter against the Mets.
After this series, the Mets will travel to Milwaukee to face the Brewers, who have already clinched the NL Central and are aiming 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 embroiled in a tight wild-card race. It’s feasible that Game 162 could present a do-or-die scenario for both the Braves and the Royals.
“You knew it a couple weeks ago, right? That series is probably gonna help decide this thing,” said Sean Murphy, underlining the consensus anticipation surrounding these pivotal matchups.
As the series unfolds, fans and analysts alike will be keenly observing every pitch, swing, and strategic decision, knowing that the outcomes will indelibly shape the postseason landscape. Both teams are acutely aware that their playoff aspirations hinge on their performances in this high-stakes series, promising drama and excitement for baseball enthusiasts everywhere.