MLB’s Expanded Postseason Format: A Doubleheader Showdown
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 become a staple of the regular season’s climax. However, this Monday, fans will be treated to a high-stakes doubleheader that could evoke the same kind of excitement as those classic tiebreakers. The New York Mets and Atlanta Braves will face off in Atlanta, with two coveted playoff spots on the line.
The Stakes: Mets, Braves, and Diamondbacks
The atmosphere surrounding this doubleheader will be electric, as both the Mets and Braves are tied at 88-72, each vying for a chance to secure their postseason fate. Meanwhile, the Arizona Diamondbacks will be anxiously watching from the sidelines, hoping for favorable outcomes that could allow them to defend their National League pennant. The pressure is palpable, not just for the teams on the field, but also for the Diamondbacks, who must rely on the results of this doubleheader to determine their own playoff aspirations.
The Scenarios: How Each Team Can Advance
As the Mets and Braves prepare for their crucial games, the scenarios for postseason qualification are clear:
- Split the Doubleheader: Both the Braves and Mets clinch playoff spots, while the Diamondbacks are eliminated.
- Braves Sweep: The Braves clinch a spot, the Diamondbacks also advance, and the Mets are eliminated.
- Mets Sweep: The Mets clinch a spot, the Diamondbacks advance, and the Braves are eliminated.
NL Wild-Card Standings Breakdown
As of now, the standings are as follows:
- WC2: Braves, 88-72 (.550)
- WC3: Mets, 88-72 (.540)
- Diamondbacks: 89-73 (.549), 0.0 GB
This tight race adds an extra layer of drama to the doubleheader, as each game will not only impact the teams involved but also the fate of the Diamondbacks.
How the Braves Can Make the Playoffs
For the Braves, the path to the postseason is straightforward. They need to secure just one victory against the Mets to clinch the No. 5 seed. However, a sweep would complicate matters, as it would eliminate Atlanta from playoff contention altogether. The Braves will need to balance their desire for a win with the potential implications of their performance.
How the Mets Can Make the Playoffs
The Mets find themselves in a similar situation. They, too, require just one win to guarantee a postseason berth. A split in the doubleheader would see the Mets clinch the No. 6 seed, while a sweep would elevate them to the No. 5 seed. The stakes are high, and the Mets will be looking to capitalize on this opportunity to secure their playoff spot.
How the Diamondbacks Can Make the Playoffs
The Diamondbacks are in a precarious position, needing either the Mets or Braves to sweep the doubleheader to keep their postseason hopes alive. A split would eliminate Arizona due to a tiebreaker disadvantage. The Diamondbacks are left in a state of uncertainty, knowing that their fate hinges on the outcomes of the games being played in Atlanta.
Game Schedule: When to Tune In
Fans eager to catch the action can mark their calendars for Monday, with the doubleheader set to kick off at 1:10 p.m. ET from Truist Park. Game 2 will commence approximately 40 minutes after the conclusion of Game 1. Both games will be broadcast on ESPN, ensuring that fans can follow every moment of this pivotal matchup.
Pitching Matchups: Who’s Taking the Mound?
As of now, the Braves have not officially announced their starting pitchers for the doubleheader, but speculation suggests that Spencer Schwellenbach may take the mound for one of the games. Chris Sale is also available, though the Braves may opt to save him for the Wild-Card Series, depending on the significance of Game 2.
On the other side, the Mets have yet to confirm their starters, but manager Carlos Mendoza indicated that Luis Severino and Tylor Megill are both "in play" for the crucial games. With both pitchers having not pitched in recent outings, they are fresh and ready to contribute to the Mets’ playoff aspirations.
The Anticipation Builds
As the doubleheader approaches, the excitement is palpable. Fans of the Mets, Braves, and Diamondbacks are all on the edge of their seats, knowing that the outcomes of these games will determine not only their teams’ fates but also the landscape of the upcoming postseason. With so much on the line, Monday promises to be a thrilling day for baseball enthusiasts everywhere.