MLB Playoff Pivotal Doubleheader: Mets vs. Braves at Truist Park

The race for the final two berths in the Major League Baseball (MLB) postseason takes center stage as the New York Mets and Atlanta Braves face off in a doubleheader at Truist Park in Atlanta on Monday. These games will conclude the 2024 MLB regular season and determine the National League wild-card positions, involving a three-way contest with the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Due to previously postponed games caused by weather disturbances, the Mets and Braves are compelled to play a doubleheader. These matchups became crucial following a series of rainouts linked to Hurricane Helene. Both teams currently hold records of 88-72, while the Diamondbacks are slightly ahead with an 89-73 record. However, the Braves and Mets have tiebreaker advantages over the Diamondbacks, creating a high-stakes environment for the games.

The first game of the twin bill is scheduled for 10:10 a.m. MST (1:10 p.m. ET), with the second game following at 1:40 p.m. MST (4:40 p.m. ET). Viewers can tune in to ESPN2 nationally, as well as Bally Sports South in Atlanta and SNY in New York. Various streaming platforms that support ESPN2 are also available for live broadcasts.

The playoff scenarios are straightforward yet tense: if the Mets and Braves split the games, they both qualify for the playoffs, leaving the Diamondbacks out of the running. The Braves would secure the No. 2 wild card and the Mets the No. 3 spot due to Atlanta winning the season series between the two teams. On the other hand, a sweep by either team propels them to the second wild-card position, allowing the Diamondbacks to claim the third spot.

In preparation for this crucial showdown, the Mets have outlined their starting pitchers as right-hander Tylor Megill for the first game and another right-hander whose name wasn’t specified for the second. Megill recently pitched against the Philadelphia Phillies on September 22, allowing one run over four innings while throwing 93 pitches. Meanwhile, the Braves are counting on rookie Jared Shuster for Game 1, who previously delivered a strong performance against the Mets.

With the playoffs on the line, both teams are expected to make strategic decisions involving pitching rotations. Braves’ star Chris Sale, leading the National League in wins, ERA, and strikeouts, might be used in an “emergency” role if required, particularly if the Braves lose the first game. Sale’s pitch velocity has drawn attention recently, although it remains unclear if this will impact his availability or performance.

The outcome of these games not only resolves the immediate playoff placements but also assures dramatic reshuffles in team travels, impacting their subsequent gameplay strategies heading into the postseason.