### Lindor’s Late Heroics Send Mets to Playoffs in Wild Win Over Braves

ATLANTA -- The New York Mets secured a National League wild-card playoff berth with an exhilarating 8-7 victory over the Atlanta Braves, thanks to Francisco Lindor's two-run homer in the ninth inning of Game 1 of Monday's doubleheader. This game, the penultimate for both teams in the regular season, served as a makeup for two games postponed due to Hurricane Helene's impact last week.

The Braves initially appeared poised for an easy win, commanding a 3-0 lead as the game headed into the eighth inning. However, the Mets mounted a dramatic offensive surge, scoring six runs in the top half of the inning. Brandon Nimmo's two-run homer was the highlight of the rally, which led to Braves closer Raisel Iglesias being pulled after just 12 pitches — keeping him potentially available for the day's second game.

Atlanta responded fiercely in the bottom of the eighth, regaining the lead with a four-run inning powered by Ozzie Albies' three-run double, bringing the score to 7-6. Yet the drama didn't end there. In the ninth inning, Starling Marte singled with one out, setting the stage for Lindor's decisive 33rd home run, a tremendous shot into the Braves bullpen in right-center. This home run propelled the Mets into the playoffs for the first time since 2022.

The Braves still have an opportunity to secure the final wild card spot, pending the outcome of Game 2. Though originally scheduled to start, Chris Sale was scratched due to back spasms, prompting Atlanta to instead turn to Grant Holmes. He will oppose the Mets' starter, Luis Severino. A loss for Atlanta in this game would give the final National League playoff spot to the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Mets closer Edwin Diaz, who pitched a season-high 40 pitches in Game 1, was credited with the win despite some tense moments. Diaz surrendered the go-ahead hit to Albies after not covering first base on an infield hit by Jarred Kelenic, but he redeemed himself by securing the final two outs. The Braves had the potential tying run on second, but Diaz struck out Ramon Laureano and got Travis d'Arnaud to ground out to end the game.

As Diaz threw his glove to the ground in celebration, the Mets gathered in brief joy behind the mound, officially marking their return to October baseball.