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First, the good news: The Mets head into Friday’s game a full game ahead of the Braves for the final NL wild-card position, with just 16 games remaining, having matched their season-best by sitting 14 games over .500.
Now for the not-so-good news: Starting with Friday’s series opener in Philadelphia against the leading Phillies, the Mets face the most challenging schedule for the remainder of the season.
According to Tankathon.com, the winning percentage of the Mets’ opponents stands at .557.
Mets manager Carlos Mendoza observes from the dugout. Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports
In contrast, the Braves contend with the 12th-most difficult schedule, kicking off their own stretch at home against the Dodgers, a team that previously swept Atlanta earlier this season.
“I believe both teams have exceeded expectations to reach this point,’’ remarked one NL scout. “The Mets have faced elimination multiple times this season, while Atlanta continues to find value in players they’ve just signed.”
The Mets’ tough path ahead primarily stems from the fact that seven of their remaining games are against the Phillies, with the first three taking place at Citizens Bank Park this weekend, followed by another four at Citi Field beginning Thursday.
In between these series, they will face the struggling Nationals for three games in Queens.
After concluding their matchups with the Phillies at Citi Field a week from Sunday, the Mets have the daunting task of finishing the season with three games against the NL Central-leading Brewers in Milwaukee, followed by a final series in Atlanta.
The Mets will encounter Zack Wheeler’s Phillies frequently down the stretch. Getty Images
This season, the Mets have lost four of the six encounters with Philadelphia, including a complete-game shutout delivered by Friday’s starter, Aaron Nola, back in May.
Additionally, they were swept in their only series against the Brewers and have split their ten games with the Braves this year, while achieving four victories in six matches against Washington.
Notably, despite the looming challenges, the Mets have already overcome significant obstacles several times this season.
After a rough start, losing their first five games under rookie manager Carlos
Mlb standings
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Mets Face Tough Road Ahead in Battle for NL Wild Card Spot
Current Standings and Playoff Landscape
The New York Mets currently hold a record of 80-66, placing them in a competitive position for a Wild Card spot in the National League. They are closely followed by the Atlanta Braves at 79-67, the Chicago Cubs at 75-70, and the St. Louis Cardinals at 73-72 as they vie for the remaining playoff positions [[1](https://www.foxsports.com/mlb/new-york-mets-team-standings?type=wild%20card)].
Challenges Ahead
As the regular season nears its end, the Mets are facing a tough schedule that includes critical matchups against division rivals and teams fighting for their own playoff hopes. The following factors could significantly impact their chances:
- Strained Pitching Rotation: With injuries and inconsistencies plaguing the pitching staff, the Mets must rely on their bullpen to maintain leads.
- Key Player Performance: The performance of star players like Pete Alonso and Francisco Lindor will be pivotal in securing wins.
- Competitive Rivalry: The Braves and Cubs are not only close in the standings but also have strong lineups that can exploit any weaknesses.
Upcoming Schedule
| Date | Opponent | Location | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| September 15 | Atlanta Braves | Home | Critical divisional game |
| September 18 | Chicago Cubs | Away | Direct Wild Card competitor |
| September 20 | St. Louis Cardinals | Home | Potential playoff impact |
| September 23 | Philadelphia Phillies | Away | Rivalry game with playoff implications |
Player Spotlight
With the playoff race heating up, certain players need to step up their game:
Pete Alonso
- Current Stats: 34 home runs, 100 RBIs
- Key Contribution: Alonso’s ability to drive in runs will be crucial during tight games.
Francisco Lindor
- Current Stats: .275 batting average, 75 RBIs
- Key Contribution: Lindor’s defensive skills and experience in high-pressure situations are invaluable.
Strategies for Success
The Mets will need to adopt certain strategies to enhance their chances of clinching a Wild Card spot:
- Consistent Hitting: The Mets must improve their batting average with runners in scoring position.
- Effective Bullpen Usage: Managing pitchers effectively to avoid burnout and injuries is critical.
- Defensive Cohesion: Fostering strong communication among infielders and outfielders can mitigate errors.
Fan Engagement
Mets fans play a vital role in energizing the team. Here are ways fans can support the Mets during this crucial period:
- Attend Games: Show up and fill the stands to create a home-field advantage.
- Social Media Support: Engage with the team on social media by using hashtags, sharing highlights, and showing support.
- Merchandise: Wear Mets gear to display pride and unity within the community.
Conclusion
With a challenging road ahead, the New York Mets must rally together, leveraging their strengths and addressing weaknesses to secure a spot in the playoffs. The excitement of nearing the postseason is palpable, and fans can expect thrilling baseball in the coming weeks.
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