In a thrilling conclusion to the regular season, the Atlanta Braves secured a playoff spot with a 3-0 victory over the New York Mets in the second game of a makeup doubleheader. The win came after the Mets clinched their own postseason berth with an 8-7 comeback victory in the opener.
With three teams vying for the last two National League playoff spots, the Braves faced off against their NL East rivals in a twin bill that was rescheduled due to Hurricane Helene. The defending NL champion Arizona Diamondbacks were eliminated from contention as they watched from afar.
In the nightcap, Grant Holmes filled in for scratched Braves ace Chris Sale, who was sidelined with back spasms, and pitched four scoreless innings. Marcell Ozuna provided insurance with a two-run single in the seventh, sparking a champagne celebration in the Braves’ clubhouse.
The Mets had earlier overcome a 3-0 deficit in the eighth inning and a 7-6 deficit in the ninth to win the opener, capped by Francisco Lindor’s two-run homer. The Braves had surged back ahead with four runs in the bottom of the eighth, but Lindor’s blast sent the Mets into the postseason.
In the second game, Joey Lucchesi, making his second big league start of the season, pitched six strong innings for the Mets, allowing just three hits. However, Daybel Hernandez earned the win, and Raisel Iglesias secured his 34th save in 37 chances.
The Braves’ victory marked a dramatic turnaround after a stunning loss in the first game, and they will now look to make a deep run in the playoffs.
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