The Atlanta Braves are facing a tough road to the postseason this year, and their fate will be determined on the final day of the regular season. Both the Braves and the Mets need just one win during Monday’s doubleheader to secure a Wild Card spot. However, if either team is swept, then the Arizona Diamondbacks will advance instead.
In their first game, the Braves will start rookie sensation Spencer Schwellenbach, who has been impressive against the Mets this season with only one run allowed over 14 innings. If Schwellenbach doesn’t get it done, Chris Sale will take over in the nightcap. Sale is aiming for four strikeouts and an ERA below Tarik Skubal’s 2.39 mark to become MLB’s first Triple Crown winner since Johan Santana in 2007.
Braves manager Brian Snitker acknowledges that their fate is in their own hands and winning one of these games would be crucial for them. The decision to gamble on Charlie Morton on Sunday didn’t pay off as he struggled on what could potentially be his last start of his career.
Despite Morton’s performance, there were other factors contributing to their loss against the Royals. The Braves only managed to score two runs despite facing pitchers who are likely not part of a postseason roster. They also made some costly mistakes on base running that resulted in outs at crucial moments.
Snitker understands that perfection is not possible and these situations can be challenging for players, especially considering where they were in the lineup.
A sweep against Kansas City would have given Atlanta an easier path towards preparing for the Wild Card Series without having to play a doubleheader. However, this season has been filled with injuries and obstacles for them.
Now it all comes down to these two games for Atlanta as they hope to come out with big hits and secure their spot in the postseason.
