Breaking down key Mets-Braves matchups: Who has edge in series that could decide wild card spot
The playoffs don’t officially start until Oct.1, but the Mets have essentially been playing games with postseason implications for a while now and that will be especially true in their next three games against the Braves in Atlanta beginning Tuesday.
Two wins by the Mets puts them in the playoffs, while Atlanta can’t afford to lose the series.So with a potential wild card spot on the line, here’s a look at how the NL East rivals match up before their battle at Truist Park.This series will be missing some star power, with Ronald Acuña Jr.out for the season and Austin Riley also on the IL, while Francisco Lindor has been out a little more than a week with back discomfort.Atlanta’s offense is now led by Marcell Ozuna and only six batters have a higher on-base percentage.First baseman Matt Olson has been terrific for the last two months and ex-Met Travis d’Arnaud tends to enjoy hitting against his old team.
With Lindor questionable, Jose Iglesias will be relied upon again, with Brandon Nimmo trying to shake off a rough second half.Edge: MetsSince the Mets turned their season around at the end of May, only the Diamondbacks and Dodgers have hit for more power, but so much of the Mets offense is driven by Lindor.If he’s healthy, the Mets have the edge.
If not, perhaps Atlanta figures out Luisangel Acuña.Mark Vientos has cooled off and J.D.
Martinez doesn’t have a hit since Sept.9.
Pete Alonso and Francisco Alvarez are looking for their power strokes.Edge: EvenEven without Lindor, the Mets have speed, thanks in part to Acuña.No team has stolen fewer bases than Atlanta.Edge: MetsAcuña has stepped in well for Lindor on both sides of the ball, including at shortstop.
Atlanta getting Ozzie Albies back at second base after missing two months with a wrist injury and having Gio Urshela available to fill in for Riley at third gives them a solid infield.Vientos and Alonso have struggled at the corners, but Acuña and Iglesias have jelled in the middle.Edge: ...