Tylor Megill Takes the Mound as Mets Aim for Wild Card Berth in Crucial Doubleheader Against Braves

In a pivotal doubleheader on Monday, the New York Mets have announced that right-hander Tylor Megill will start Game 1 against their division rivals, the Atlanta Braves. This decision comes as the Mets need just one win to clinch a Wild Card berth and secure their spot in the playoffs.

Megill, who last pitched on September 22 against the Philadelphia Phillies, has been impressive since his recall on August 30. He has posted a 1.79 ERA in 25.1 innings across five starts, and for the season, he stands at 4-5 with a 3.98 ERA, a 1.27 WHIP, and 83 strikeouts in 72.1 innings.

Doubleheader Implications

The doubleheader, necessitated by the cancellation of two games last week due to Hurricane Helene, will determine the last two National League wild-card spots. If either the Mets or the Braves win both games, they will join the Arizona Diamondbacks in the playoffs. However, if the teams split the doubleheader, both the Mets and Braves will advance, leaving the Diamondbacks out of contention.

The Braves, who will start rookie Spencer Schwellenbach in Game 1, have a tough task ahead as well. Schwellenbach has dominated the Mets in his previous starts this season, pitching 14 innings of one-run ball against them.

Starting Pitchers and Strategy

The Mets have chosen to hold back Luis Severino for Game 2, in case they need him to secure the second win. If the Mets win the first game, Severino could be saved for Game 1 of the Wild Card series on Tuesday. This strategic move underscores the importance of each game in the doubleheader.

The games will be broadcast on ESPN2, with the first game starting at 1:10 PM ET and the second game beginning approximately 40 minutes after the conclusion of the first. The series will be played at Truist Park in Atlanta, Georgia.

Playoff Scenarios

If the Mets win the first game and the Braves win the second, the Braves will secure the No. 5 seed and face the San Diego Padres in the Wild Card series. If the Braves win both games, they will be the No. 5 seed, and the Diamondbacks, if they do not sweep, will be eliminated. The Mets winning one game will secure them the No. 6 seed, unless they win both, which would elevate them to the No. 5 seed.