This week, Truist Park becomes the epicenter of the 2024 MLB regular season. The Atlanta Braves host the New York Mets in a three-game series that could shape the postseason landscape. With only one playoff spot in contention, this series is more than just another matchup.
Both teams find themselves under immense pressure. For the Braves, victory could bring them closer to a wild-card spot. Still, even a sweep of the Mets won't guarantee their postseason berth if the Arizona Diamondbacks falter against the San Francisco Giants. The Mets, however, can secure their ticket to October by winning just two games in this critical series. Adding to the tension, a potential hurricane threatens the region, which could impact the games.
The history between these two rivals adds another layer to the drama. Two years ago, the Braves swept the Mets in their penultimate series, stripping New York of their lead in the NL East. This past lesson hangs heavily in the minds of both teams as they prepare for the crucial face-off.
The action starts on Tuesday, Sept. 24, at 7:20 p.m. ET, with right-handers Luis Severino of the Mets facing Spencer Schwellenbach of the Braves. The remaining games promise equally thrilling matchups. On Wednesday, left-handers David Peterson and Chris Sale will take the mound, followed by Sean Manaea versus Max Fried on Thursday. Notably, the Mets adjusted their rotation to push Jose Quintana’s start to Friday, utilizing their off-day on Monday effectively.
Key Players to Watch
Rookie Luisangel Acuña has been a revelation for the Braves. Filling in for the injured Francisco Lindor, Acuña has been red-hot, hitting .409 with two doubles, a triple, and three home runs. Complementing this stellar performance, veteran Jose Iglesias has taken over the leadoff spot, batting an impressive .467 with Jeff McNeil sidelined due to a wrist injury. Lindor remains optimistic about returning this season, despite acknowledging the likelihood of playing through pain.
"You knew it a couple weeks ago, right? That series is probably gonna help decide this thing," said Braves catcher Sean Murphy. His words encapsulate the magnitude of this series for both teams.
Marcell Ozuna has been another key contributor for the Braves, posting a .329/.417/.425 slash line in September. In contrast, JD Martinez and Mark Vientos have struggled this month, which could spell trouble for the Mets if their bats stay cold. However, Ramón Laureano and Whit Merrifield have stepped up, adding depth to the Braves' lineup and providing timely hits.
The Road Ahead
Once this series concludes, the Mets will head to Milwaukee to face the Brewers, who have already clinched the NL Central. The Brewers are now aiming to secure a Wild Card Series bye, which will make their matchups consequential for their playoff preparation.
The Braves, meanwhile, will stay home for a three-game series against the Kansas City Royals. Interestingly, the Royals are also in the thick of the wild-card race, making this an equally crucial series. With both Atlanta and Kansas City potentially needing victories in Game 162, fans might witness a win-or-go-home scenario come season’s end.
As the season's climactic moments unfold, one thing remains clear: the stakes couldn't be higher. For the Braves and Mets, every pitch, hit, and strategic move will be under the microscope. The outcome of this series will not just decide their fate but could also influence the broader playoff picture.
In a sport as unpredictable as baseball, nothing is certain until the final out. This week, all eyes will be on Truist Park to see who emerges victorious in this high-stakes showdown. Will the Braves pull off another historic sweep, or will the Mets punch their postseason ticket? The clock is ticking, and the answers will soon be known.