The Mets and Braves are in Atlanta for a crucial three-game series that could determine the NL East division title. Rookie shortstop Luisangel Acuna, the younger brother of Braves outfielder Ronald Acuna Jr., will make his debut in the series against his brother's team.
The New York Mets and Atlanta Braves are set to face off in a crucial three-game series in Atlanta, with the NL East division title on the line. The Mets currently hold a two-game lead over the Braves, and a series win would guarantee them a spot in the playoffs.
For the Mets, the stakes are high. If they lose the series, they could find themselves in the Wild Card game, which they lost two years ago to the Braves. Rookie shortstop Luisangel Acuna, the younger brother of Braves superstar outfielder Ronald Acuna Jr., will make his debut in the series against his brother's team.
Mets vs. Braves: Family Ties and Postseason Stakes
Acuna, who was added to the Mets roster this season, says the family has an easy rooting interest: him. His brother, the National League's reigning MVP, tore an ACL earlier this year to end his season, the same injury he suffered in 2021 when Atlanta won the World Series.
Entering the series, the Mets are 87-69, while the Braves are 85-71. The season series is tied at five. If the Mets win this three-game set, that would ensure Atlanta cannot pass them in the standings.
Mets vs. Braves: Family Ties and Postseason Stakes
Two years ago, the Mets and Braves were in a similar situation. Although both teams had clinched postseason spots by the time they met in late September, the division title was on the line. The Braves swept New York, putting the Mets in the wild card round, where they lost.
The latest series may face some weather delays due to a rainstorm expected to hammer the southeast Wednesday and Thursday. A contingency plan has not yet been announced, but options could include a doubleheader Monday or moving the series to a different location.
Mets vs. Braves: Family Ties and Postseason Stakes
The Mets are hoping to avoid a repeat of 2020, when they lost the NL East title to the Braves on the final day of the regular season. With a series win in Atlanta, the Mets would clinch their first division title since 2015 and would advance to the NLDS.
The Braves, on the other hand, are hoping to win their fifth consecutive NL East title. With a series win, they would move into a tie with the Mets and would have a chance to win the division outright with a win in their final series of the regular season against the Miami Marlins.
The series between the Mets and Braves is sure to be a close and exciting one, with both teams fighting for a chance to play in the postseason.
