The New York Mets have had quite a tumultuous week.
It all began with their doubleheader against the Atlanta Braves on Monday, which was supposed to be the only day off between the regular season and the postseason. However, after two games were postponed due to storms and Hurricane Helene, the two teams ended up battling for the final NL Wild Card spots.
Both teams secured playoff berths by splitting the two games, advancing them directly to the NL Wild Card Series.
While the Braves were swept by the San Diego Padres, the Mets are still in contention. They won Game 1 against the Milwaukee Brewers on Tuesday but lost Game 2 on Wednesday after giving up a late lead.
This sets up a decisive Game 3 between New York and Milwaukee, scheduled for 7:08 p.m. ET on Thursday.
In a stretch starting from last weekend, the Mets will have played eight games in seven days, all carrying significant playoff stakes. The last five, in particular, have been crucial for shaping the National League playoff bracket.
According to OptaSTATS, the Mets will make history as the first MLB team to play five games in a four-day span, with at least three of those being postseason contests.
Despite all the drama, including several comeback victories, the Mets have not yet had to use veteran pitcher José Quintana. The 35-year-old lefty, who last pitched on September 28, is set to start Game 3 on Thursday night.
In his last outing against the Brewers, Quintana allowed two earned runs in 4.1 innings while striking out nine. He has averaged just under 6.0 innings per start this season, and New York’s overworked bullpen would greatly benefit if he could provide a lengthy appearance.
Only Danny Young and Max Kranick are fully rested among the Mets’ relievers heading into Thursday, while struggling closer Edwin Díaz has not pitched since a blown save against the Braves on Monday.
It remains to be seen whether the Mets will be able to keep up the pace or if they will advance to the NLDS and enjoy a much-needed day off on Friday.
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