Mets-Braves Doubleheader: How We Got Here, Who’s Pitching, and the Playoff Stakes

As the 2024 MLB season reaches its climax, the New York Mets and the Atlanta Braves find themselves in a high-stakes doubleheader. The games have significant playoff implications, not just for the teams involved but for the entire National League. Fans are wondering how this matchup came to be, who will be taking the mound, and how these games could impact the postseason picture. Let’s break it all down.

How Did We Get Here?

The Mets and Braves have faced each other many times over the years, but this doubleheader wasn’t initially part of the regular schedule. So, how did we end up here?

This doubleheader stems from a previous rainout earlier in the season. Weather delays and postponed games are a common occurrence in baseball, and teams often have to reschedule these games to fit within the tight MLB calendar. In this case, both teams have a lot riding on this doubleheader, making it more than just a makeup game—it’s a pivotal point in their seasons.

The Mets, who have struggled with consistency throughout the season, are battling for a playoff spot. Injuries and underperformance have plagued the team, but they’ve managed to stay within striking distance of the National League Wild Card. For them, these two games against the division-leading Braves could make or break their playoff hopes.

On the other hand, the Atlanta Braves have been one of the best teams in baseball all season. With a powerhouse offense and a solid pitching rotation, they’ve dominated the National League East. However, even with their comfortable lead, the Braves can’t afford to lose focus. These games could impact their playoff seeding and overall momentum heading into the postseason.

Who’s Going to Pitch?

One of the biggest questions leading up to this doubleheader is who will take the mound for both teams. Pitching decisions are crucial, especially in games that could determine playoff fates.

For the Mets, they’ll likely rely on their top pitchers to give them the best chance at securing wins. Ace Kodai Senga, who has been a bright spot in an otherwise up-and-down season for the Mets, is expected to start one of the games. Senga has been electric on the mound, consistently striking out batters and keeping the Mets in close games. His performance in this doubleheader will be crucial if the Mets want to stay in the playoff hunt.

The Mets could also turn to José Quintana, who has returned from injury and provided stability to the rotation. Quintana’s veteran presence will be vital in such a high-pressure scenario. He’s known for his ability to keep games close, giving his team a chance to win even when the offense isn’t firing on all cylinders.

On the Braves side, their pitching depth has been a huge part of their success this season. Spencer Strider, one of the top young pitchers in the league, is expected to start one of the games. Strider’s dominant fastball and ability to rack up strikeouts have made him a key player for Atlanta this year. If he’s on his game, the Mets could struggle to get their offense going.

The Braves could also turn to Charlie Morton, their veteran pitcher who has plenty of postseason experience. Morton’s ability to perform under pressure has been proven time and again, and Atlanta will be counting on him to deliver in this doubleheader. Whether it’s Morton, Strider, or another member of the rotation, the Braves have plenty of strong arms to choose from.

Playoff Implications

The outcome of this doubleheader could drastically affect the playoff picture, especially for the Mets. For New York, every win counts as they fight for one of the National League Wild Card spots. If they manage to sweep the Braves, it could give them the momentum and confidence they need to make a final push toward the postseason. On the other hand, if they lose both games, their playoff chances could slip away.

The Braves, while already clinching the NL East title, are still playing for more. A strong finish to the season could secure them the best record in the National League, giving them home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. This would be a huge asset for the Braves, as they’ve been dominant at home this season. Additionally, keeping their momentum going as they enter the postseason is crucial for a team with World Series aspirations.

For other teams in the National League, the results of these games will also be watched closely. Teams like the Arizona Diamondbacks, Chicago Cubs, and Miami Marlins are all fighting for Wild Card spots alongside the Mets. If the Mets drop these games, it could open the door for one of these other teams to make a late-season surge and grab the final playoff spot.

Conclusion

The Mets-Braves doubleheader is more than just a makeup of a rainout—it’s a critical moment in the 2024 MLB season. With playoff hopes on the line for the Mets and important playoff positioning at stake for the Braves, both teams will be playing with intensity and focus.

For the Mets, it’s a do-or-die situation. Every win matters as they try to secure a Wild Card spot and keep their postseason dreams alive. For the Braves, it’s about maintaining their dominance and preparing for what they hope will be another deep playoff run. With star pitchers on both sides and plenty of playoff implications, this doubleheader promises to be a thrilling set of games that could shape the rest of the season.