MLB’s Expanded Postseason Format: A Doubleheader Drama
In 2022, Major League Baseball (MLB) introduced an expanded postseason format that left some fans feeling a bit let down. Gone were the thrilling winner-take-all tiebreaker games that had historically added an extra layer of excitement to the end of the regular season. However, for those fans yearning for high-stakes drama, Monday promises to deliver just that as the New York Mets and Atlanta Braves face off in a doubleheader in Atlanta, with two playoff spots hanging in the balance.
The Stakes: Mets, Braves, and Diamondbacks
The atmosphere will be electric as the Mets and Braves take the field, both teams entering the day with identical records of 88-72. The stakes are incredibly high, not just for them but also for the Arizona Diamondbacks, who will be watching from the sidelines, hoping for favorable outcomes that could allow them to defend their National League pennant.
Despite both the Mets and Braves hoping to clinch their playoff spots on Sunday, they now find themselves in a must-win situation on Monday. The doubleheader will not only determine their postseason fates but also the Diamondbacks’ chances of advancing.
NL Wild-Card Standings Breakdown
As the teams prepare for the doubleheader, the National League wild-card standings are as follows:
- WC2: Braves – 88-72 (.550)
- WC3: Mets – 88-72 (.540)
- Diamondbacks – 89-73 (.549), 0.0 GB
With the teams so closely matched, the outcomes of Monday’s games will be pivotal. Here’s how the scenarios play out:
- Split: Braves clinch, Mets clinch, Diamondbacks eliminated
- Braves sweep: Braves clinch, Diamondbacks clinch, Mets eliminated
- Mets sweep: Mets clinch, Diamondbacks clinch, Braves eliminated
How the Braves Can Secure a Playoff Spot
For the Braves, the path to the postseason is straightforward. They need to win just one of the two games against the Mets to secure a playoff berth as the No. 5 seed. However, a sweep would complicate matters, as it would eliminate Atlanta from contention altogether. The pressure is on, and every pitch will count.
How the Mets Can Clinch Their Spot
The Mets find themselves in a similar situation. They, too, require just one victory to clinch a postseason berth. If they manage to split the doubleheader, they will secure the No. 6 seed. However, a sweep would elevate them to the No. 5 seed, giving them a more favorable position heading into the playoffs. The stakes could not be higher for both teams.
The Diamondbacks’ Hopes
Meanwhile, the Diamondbacks are in a precarious position. They need either the Mets or Braves to sweep the doubleheader to have a chance at making the playoffs. A split would eliminate Arizona due to a tiebreaker disadvantage. The Diamondbacks are left anxiously awaiting the outcomes, knowing that their postseason hopes hinge on the results of their rivals.
Game Day Details: When and Where to Watch
The doubleheader is set to kick off on Monday at 1:10 p.m. ET at Truist Park in Atlanta. Game 2 will follow approximately 40 minutes after the conclusion of Game 1. Fans can catch all the action live on ESPN, with local broadcasts available for Braves and Mets supporters.
Pitching Matchups: Who Will Take the Mound?
As of now, the Braves have not officially announced their starting pitchers for the doubleheader. However, it is anticipated that Spencer Schwellenbach will take the mound for one of the games. Chris Sale is also available, but there’s speculation that Atlanta might save him for the Wild-Card Series, especially if Game 2 becomes inconsequential.
On the Mets’ side, manager Carlos Mendoza has indicated that Luis Severino and Tylor Megill are both "in play" for Monday’s games. Severino hasn’t pitched since September 24, while Megill last took the mound on September 22, meaning both are well-rested and ready to contribute.
Anticipation Builds
As fans gear up for what promises to be a thrilling day of baseball, the excitement is palpable. The doubleheader between the Mets and Braves is not just a battle for playoff spots; it’s a showcase of the intensity and unpredictability that makes baseball so captivating. With everything on the line, both teams will need to bring their A-game, while the Diamondbacks can only hope for a stroke of luck. The stage is set, and the drama is about to unfold.