Unscheduled Finale Creates Unforgettable Memories

In a surprising turn of events on the last day of the regular season, the New York Mets staged an unlikely rally in the first match of a makeup doubleheader to secure their place in the playoffs. The Atlanta Braves followed suit in the second game, ensuring their own postseason spot. The Arizona Diamondbacks, from afar, could only watch as their chances dwindled, impacted by two games happening on the opposite side of the country.

Mets and Braves – Unyielding in their Pursuit of the Postseason

“I was focused on getting the postseason berth, regardless of what it took. If it meant playing four games today, we would have,” said Matt Olson, the Braves’ first baseman, after their 3-0 victory in the regular season’s final game. The regular season extended into overtime after the Mets and Braves had to reschedule two games due to Hurricane Helene. Both teams held the power to control their destiny, each possessing a tiebreaker advantage over the reigning NL champion Diamondbacks, whose only hope was a sweep by one team.

Improbable Comebacks and Unforgettable Moments

The Mets, in a thrilling turn of events, overcame deficits of 3-0 in the eighth inning and 7-6 in the ninth to win the opener 8-7, taking the lead on Francisco Lindor’s two-run homer. “This game is an instant classic,” said Brandon Nimmo, whose two-run homer sparked a six-run eighth. The Braves, showing grit, bounced back to secure the necessary win. Even with Chris Sale out due to back spasms, Grant Holmes stepped up to lead a three-hitter spread among six pitchers.

Postseason Celebrations Begin

In a fitting end to an extraordinary day, celebrations erupted in both clubhouses at Truist Park. Atlanta, New York, and Arizona ended with identical 89-73 records. Holmes was informed of his starting role just half an hour before the first pitch. “I was about to grab something to eat, and then I was told, ‘Hey, you’re starting this one.’ I thought, ‘Alright, let’s do this,’” said the 28-year-old Holmes.

Postseason Berths Clinched

With their postseason berth secured, the Mets brought in left-hander Joey Lucchesi to start the second game. Lucchesi (0-2) allowed just three hits, including a run-scoring single to Gio Urshela, in a six-inning, 111-pitch outing. Marcell Ozuna added some comfort with a two-run single in the seventh. Daysbel Hernandez (3-0) earned the win and Raisel Iglesias sealed the deal for his 34th save in 37 attempts.

Thrilling Finishes and Historic Wins

The Mets were already in celebration mode after Lindor’s 33rd homer. After trailing 3-0, with just three singles through seven innings against rookie Spencer Schwellenbach, New York’s offense sparked to life in the eighth. The Mets took the lead with their six-run rally. The Braves retaliated with four runs in the bottom half, as Ozzie Albies delivered a bases-loaded double with two outs for a 7-6 lead. However, New York had the last word with Lindor’s drive into the Braves bullpen off Pierce Johnson (7-5).

Looking Forward: The Postseason Ahead

The Mets are set to return to Milwaukee for a best-of-three Wild Card Series commencing Tuesday. The Brewers have had an upper hand during the regular season, winning five of six meetings. The Braves, on the other hand, are preparing for the four-hour flight to San Diego, where their Wild Card Series also starts Tuesday. The Padres hold a slight edge in the season series, winning 4-3. The day marked a thrilling end to the regular season and the start of an equally intriguing postseason.