This week marks a pivotal moment in the 2024 MLB regular season as the Atlanta Braves prepare to host the New York Mets for a high-stakes three-game series at Truist Park. As both teams vie for a crucial postseason berth, the intensity is palpable, with a potential hurricane adding an edge of unpredictability to the showdown.
The stakes couldn't be higher, as the Braves and Mets find themselves in a battle for one remaining playoff spot in a National League where Atlanta has already seen all other contenders eliminated from the wild-card race. The contest has effectively boiled down to a four-team struggle for three coveted postseason spots.
"You knew it a couple weeks ago, right? That series is probably gonna help decide this thing," said Braves’ Sean Murphy, capturing the significance of the forthcoming games.
Series Highlights
The series itself opens on Tuesday, Sept. 24 at 7:20 p.m. ET with a must-watch pitching duel between right-handers Luis Severino of the Mets and Spencer Schwellenbach of the Braves. The excitement doesn't stop there, as Wednesday and Thursday feature highly anticipated matchups of accomplished left-handers: David Peterson against Chris Sale, followed by Sean Manaea versus Max Fried.
The Mets have strategically adjusted their rotation, using Monday's off-day to push Jose Quintana’s start back to Friday. This tactical decision could play a significant role in their postseason aspirations.
The Mets, who were dealt a harsh blow two years ago when the Braves swept them in the penultimate series, are determined not to let history repeat itself. As they aim for a different outcome, they face the pressure of knowing that winning two games in this series will clinch their postseason spot. However, even a strong showing by the Braves won't guarantee them a wild-card spot just yet, particularly if the Arizona Diamondbacks falter in their own critical series against the San Francisco Giants.
Key Players to Watch
On the Braves' side, rookie Luisangel Acuña has been a revelation at shortstop, posting an impressive .409 average 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 a stellar .467 while filling in for Jeff McNeil, who is sidelined with a wrist injury. Lindor remains hopeful about returning this season, though he admits it is unlikely he will play without pain.
Meanwhile, for the Braves, key hitters like Marcell Ozuna have been in fine form. Ozuna, slashing .329/.417/.425 in September, has been instrumental in keeping Atlanta's postseason hopes alive. Contributions from Ramón Laureano and Whit Merrifield have further solidified the Braves' lineup during this critical stretch. Conversely, the Mets have seen struggles from key hitters like JD Martinez and Mark Vientos, who have labored throughout September.
Upcoming Challenges
After this decisive series, the Mets will head to Milwaukee to face the Brewers. The Brewers, having already clinched the NL Central, are now focused on securing a Wild Card Series bye. Meanwhile, the Braves will remain at Truist Park for a three-game series against the Kansas City Royals, who are also embroiled in a fierce wild-card race.
Should it come down to the wire, Game 162 might very well be a do-or-die situation for both the Braves and the Royals, underscoring the razor-thin margins that characterize this year's playoff race.
This week’s series at Truist Park is more than just another set of games—it’s a decisive moment that will likely shape the postseason landscape. As the Braves and Mets clash with everything on the line, fans and players alike understand the gravity of this showdown. With a brilliant mix of youth and experience taking the field, this series promises to be an unforgettable chapter in the 2024 MLB season.