On Tuesday night, the Atlanta Braves and New York Mets kicked off what could be the pivotal series of the 2024 MLB regular season, with Atlanta securing the victory in the opening game of the three-game matchup. Currently, the Mets hold a half-game lead for a wild-card spot, while the Braves trail by the same margin. New York can secure a postseason spot by winning two out of the three games. While the Braves cannot clinch the series, this week presents their best (and perhaps final) opportunity to gain substantial ground.
However, there is a potential issue this week: Hurricane Helene. This storm, which was upgraded to a tropical storm on Tuesday, is forecasted to strengthen into a hurricane by Wednesday and make landfall in Florida on Thursday. According to the National Hurricane Center, it is expected to make landfall as a Category 3 storm with winds exceeding 110 mph.
The predicted trajectory of Hurricane Helene indicates it will impact Georgia, potentially affecting the Braves vs. Mets series later this week. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has already declared a state of emergency. Here’s the latest update from CBS News:
CBS News
As of now, MLB has not announced any modifications to this week’s Braves vs. Mets series in light of Hurricane Helene; however, the expected weather conditions suggest that the series will be affected in some manner. The league aims to collaborate with both teams as well as independent weather agencies prior to making a decision, as CBS Sports has reported. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza stated that he had not received any communication from the league as of around 5 p.m. on Tuesday. Here are the four options that could be considered with the storm approaching.
Move Thursday’s game up
This represents the simplest and most direct solution. Currently scheduled for a 7:20 p.m. ET start, MLB has the option to advance Thursday’s game to either 1 p.m. ET or 12 p.m. ET, allowing it to be played before the storm arrives. This adjustment would also provide the Mets the best chance to travel to Milwaukee for their subsequent series without encountering any weather-related issues. (The Braves do not have to travel following this series.)
Play a doubleheader Wednesday
Should the forecasts indicate that playing nine innings on Thursday might not be feasible, MLB could opt for the Braves and Mets to play two games on Wednesday. However, both teams would need to revise their pitching strategies, although the off-day on Monday would ease the adjustment somewhat. If adjustments to pitching plans are necessary, they can certainly be managed. Scheduling Thursday’s game as part of a doubleheader on Wednesday could be the safest method to ensure all three games are played in Atlanta this week, though this seems improbable given the current circumstances.
Move the game to a neutral site
When severe weather forecasts pose significant concerns, MLB has been known to relocate games to neutral sites. In the past, entire series have been shifted. Here are three notable instances:
- Sept. 14-15, 2008: Chicago Cubs at Houston Astros held in Miller Park (Milwaukee). This was done due to Hurricane Ike.
- Aug. 29-31, 2017: Texas Rangers at Houston Astros relocated to Tropicana Field (Tampa). This move was necessitated by Hurricane Harvey.
- Sept. 11-13, 2017: New York Yankees at Tampa Bay Rays played in Citi Field (New York). This shift was made due to Hurricane Irma.
The series between the Astros and Cubs in 2008 is particularly memorable for Carlos Zambrano’s no-hitter, marking MLB’s first neutral site no-hitter.
While it is not ideal to play Tuesday’s and Wednesday’s games at Truist Park and then relocate Thursday’s game, circumstances might force such a decision due to Hurricane Helene. If the league requires the relocation of Thursday’s game, it must proceed accordingly. The Rangers are on the road this week, so Globe Life Field in Arlington could be a plausible alternative site, although this is merely speculation. The proximity to Atlanta and the retractable roof would help mitigate any weather complications.
Postpone Thursday’s game and reschedule for Monday (if needed)
This is the least favorable option. MLB could choose to postpone Thursday’s game, and if the outcomes of the weekend necessitate it to determine the postseason race, the game could be rescheduled for the following Monday, which is an off-day between the end of the regular season and the beginning of the Wild Card Series. However, if the game does not affect the standings, it would be canceled, resulting in a 161-game season for both the Braves and Mets. Given the current standings, it appears likely that the game will hold significance for at least one of the teams.
The projections surrounding the storm are significant enough that Thursday’s Braves vs. Mets game will likely be affected in some fashion. Moving it to an earlier time on Thursday would be the most straightforward solution, followed closely by the option of a doubleheader on Wednesday. When it comes to neutral sites and potential delays until after the regular season, the situation can become complicated, but sometimes that is the necessary course of action.
Hurricane Helene Threatens Key Braves vs. Mets Series: Possible MLB Contingency Plans
Overview of Hurricane Helene
As Hurricane Helene approaches the Eastern United States, Major League Baseball (MLB) teams are preparing for the potential impact on upcoming games, particularly the critical series between the Atlanta Braves and the New York Mets. With the storm projected to bring severe weather conditions, teams must coordinate contingency plans to ensure the safety of players, staff, and fans.
Current Forecast for Hurricane Helene
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Hurricane Helene is currently classified as a Category 2 storm with sustained winds reaching up to 100 mph. The storm is expected to make landfall in the region by the end of the week, potentially impacting the Braves vs. Mets series scheduled for this weekend. Precautionary measures are being discussed, including game postponements and venue changes.
Impact on MLB Schedule
- Potential postponement of games due to unsafe playing conditions.
- Consideration of doubleheaders to make up for missed games.
- Possibility of relocating games to neutral sites away from the storm’s path.
MLB Contingency Plans
The MLB has extensive contingency plans in place for weather-related disruptions. Here are some of the primary strategies being considered:
1. Scheduling Adjustments
In the event that the series cannot proceed as planned, the MLB may consider:
- Postponements: Delaying games to a later date when weather conditions improve.
- Doubleheaders: Rescheduling two games within a day to ensure the series is completed.
- Neutral Site Games: Playing games at a different location that is not affected by the storm.
2. Safety Protocols
The safety of all involved is the top priority. MLB teams will implement the following safety protocols:
- Monitoring weather conditions closely through NOAA and local meteorological services.
- Communication with local authorities for evacuation or safety advisories.
- Ensuring players, staff, and fans are informed about any changes in schedules or venues.
3. Fan Experience Considerations
For fans planning to attend the series, the league recommends:
- Staying updated through official team websites and social media for real-time information.
- Considering alternative plans for travel in case of last-minute changes.
- Arriving early to the ballpark to avoid traffic delays caused by weather-related adjustments.
Historical Context: Previous Weather-Related Delays in MLB
Historically, MLB has faced its share of weather-related disruptions. Here are a few notable cases:
| Year | Teams Involved | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | Miami Marlins vs. Tampa Bay Rays | Postponed due to Hurricane Irma; games rescheduled for later dates. |
| 2012 | New York Yankees vs. Kansas City Royals | Series played at a neutral site due to Hurricane Sandy. |
| 2008 | Chicago Cubs vs. Milwaukee Brewers | Postponed and rescheduled due to severe storms. |
Benefits of Effective Contingency Planning
Having a robust contingency plan in place offers several advantages:
- Player Safety: Ensures the health and safety of players and staff.
- Fan Experience: Minimizes disruption for fans and enhances their overall experience.
- Operational Efficiency: Streamlines decision-making processes during emergencies.
Communication is Key
During the impending storm, clear communication between MLB, teams, and fans is crucial. The league is utilizing various platforms to disseminate information:
- Social Media: Updates via Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram accounts of the teams and MLB.
- Official Websites: Real-time updates found on the Braves and Mets websites as well as MLB.com.
- Local News Outlets: Collaborating with local news for updates and public safety announcements.
Fan Preparedness Tips for Hurricane Helene
As Hurricane Helene approaches, fans attending the Braves vs. Mets series should prepare accordingly:
- Check weather updates frequently and stay informed of any changes.
- Have a backup plan for transportation and accommodations if needed.
- Pack an emergency kit with essentials, including water, snacks, and first aid supplies.
Conclusion
As Hurricane Helene threatens to disrupt the highly anticipated Braves vs. Mets series, MLB is taking proactive measures to ensure the safety of everyone involved. By implementing effective contingency plans and maintaining clear communication, the league aims to navigate the challenges posed by the storm while prioritizing the well-being of players and fans alike. Stay tuned for updates as the situation develops.
