The Atlanta Braves, New York Mets and Arizona Diamondbacks are all currently tied, so the the Braves and Mets must play both games of their doubleheader on Monday in Atlanta to determine the National League wild-card spots.
The scenario is simplest for the Mets and Braves — one win in the doubleheader clinches a spot. But for the Diamondbacks to make it, one of the teams needs to get swept in the doubleheader.
Here’s where it gets tricky. The Game 1 winner, whether it be the Mets or the Braves, would have already punched their ticket with less to play for than the Game 1 loser, who would need to win the second game to take the last berth. This circumstance could influence whether the Game 1 winner decides to rest certain position players and pitchers, especially, in the second game.
Game times: 1:10 p.m. ET and 4:40 p.m. ET
Game 1 starters: Tylor Megill vs. Spencer Schwellenbach
Where to watch: ESPN2, SNY, BSSO
Streaming: Fubo (try for free)
Playoff scenarios
How the Braves make the playoffs: They win one or both games on Monday. The would earn the fifth seed and face the Padres.
How the Mets make the playoffs: They win one or both games on Monday. If they sweep the day, the Mets earn the fifth seed against the Padres. If they win only one game, the become the sixth seed and play the Brewers.
How the Diamondbacks make the playoffs: Either the Braves or the Mets sweep the doubleheader, it doesn’t matter which team. Arizona becomes the sixth seed against the Brewers if it makes the playoffs.
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