Major League Baseball has decided to postpone two crucial games between the Atlanta Braves and the New York Mets. This decision comes in the wake of Hurricane Helene's approach towards the Atlanta area, prompting safety concerns and logistical challenges.
Postponement Details
Initially scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday, the games will now potentially be played as a doubleheader on Monday, provided they impact postseason standings. As it stands, the Mets boast an 87-70 record, firmly securing the National League's No. 5 seed. On the other hand, the Braves are teetering just a half-game behind the Arizona Diamondbacks for the final NL wild-card spot, intensifying the significance of these matchups.
The abrupt change means that the Mets will have to make an additional trip back to Atlanta for the rescheduled doubleheader if postseason implications dictate that these games must be played. If they do, it adds another layer of travel and strain as the Mets are currently gearing up for a three-game series against the Milwaukee Brewers this weekend. Similarly, the Braves are preparing to host the Kansas City Royals at home.
Logistical Challenges and Fan Expectations
Sources have indicated a significant reluctance from the Braves to reschedule any games from this series, primarily due to the expected high attendance at Truist Park. According to the New York Post, "the Braves balked at moving any games this series because they were expecting large crowds at Truist Park."
Further discussions with involved personnel noted that the Braves were keen to avoid the complexities of rescheduling, such as reallocating security and concession workers, as well as the potential loss in gate revenue. "Background conversations with involved personnel indicated that basically the Braves were expecting large attendance for the three games and did not want to forego the gates nor work through the logistics of moving personnel such as security, concessionaires, etc., to other dates or start times," another insider revealed.
MLB’s Final Call
Ultimately, the responsibility for any weather-related disruptions lies with Major League Baseball. "The blame for any weather issues during these important games Wednesday and Thursday falls on MLB. The league has the final say," one source emphasized. Given the league's ultimate authority, the decision to postpone was likely influenced by myriad considerations, not least the safety of the players, staff, and fans.
Outlook for the Rescheduled Games
The likelihood of these games being played on the makeup date appears strong due to the postseason stakes involved. As one unnamed source mentioned, "The games will only be played if there are postseason implications, but that seems likely as things stand."
As the teams prepare to face their respective opponents this weekend, the rescheduled games loom large. For the Mets, who most recently clinched their latest victory against the Braves 5-1 at Truist Park in front of a throng of 40,103 fans, the return to Atlanta on Monday adds another wrinkle to their postseason preparations. Meanwhile, the Braves, who are fighting tooth and nail to secure their wild-card spot, have every intention of capitalizing on their home-field advantage with the rescheduled doubleheader, should it be necessary.
With so much at stake, both teams and their fans will be keeping a keen eye on how the weekend series unfold. And for now, all eyes are also watching the skies as Hurricane Helene nears.