### Mets and Braves Clinch Playoff Berths in Wild Doubleheader

The New York Mets and the Atlanta Braves are heading to the 2024 MLB playoffs after a dramatic doubleheader on Monday that saw each team secure a postseason berth. This outcome leaves the Arizona Diamondbacks starting their offseason earlier than anticipated.

In Game 1, the Mets achieved an astonishing 8-7 victory over the Braves, highlighted by Francisco Lindor’s game-winning two-run homer in the ninth inning. The game was a rollercoaster of emotions as the Mets scored six runs in the eighth inning to take the lead, only to watch it slip away when the Braves plated four runs in the bottom of the inning. Lindor’s heroics marked the Mets' return to the postseason for the second time in the last three years.

Game 2 saw the Braves bounce back with a more straightforward 3-0 win. Run-scoring singles by Gio Urshela and Marcell Ozuna paved the way for Atlanta’s victory. However, it wasn't without its own drama, as scheduled starter Chris Sale was sidelined with back spasms just half an hour before the first pitch. This forced the Braves to turn to emergency starter Grant Holmes, who delivered four scoreless innings. Despite the pitching turmoil, this win allowed Atlanta to clinch the final NL wild-card spot, avoiding elimination and confirming the end of the Diamondbacks’ 2024 season.

The playoff picture is now clear: the Braves, as the NL’s No. 5 seed, will travel west to face the San Diego Padres, while the No. 6 seed Mets will head to Milwaukee to take on the Brewers. Both teams will have little to no rest before starting their respective Wild Card Series, which begin on Tuesday.

Looking forward, the Braves face concerns with their starting rotation. Chris Sale’s back spasms cast doubt on his availability for the Wild Card Series. Reynaldo López, who recently returned from the injured list, was used in relief during Monday’s game, complicating the Braves' pitching plans. Max Fried may have to start on short rest, adding another layer of uncertainty.

Despite the injury setbacks, the Braves can celebrate extending their streak of playoff appearances to seven consecutive years. The Mets, with Luis Severino ready to start Game 1 of their series against the Brewers, will aim to make a deep postseason run.