Braves Edge Mets in Series Opener as Hurricane Helene Looms
The Atlanta Braves initiated their crucial three-game series against the New York Mets with a victory on Tuesday night, intensifying the competition for postseason spots. As the Mets narrowly hold a half-game lead on a wild-card spot, the Braves trail closely, just half a game behind. This victory marks a significant step for Atlanta in this tightly contested race.
Mets manager Carlos Mendoza remarked late Tuesday, "I had not received any word from MLB as of 5 p.m. Tuesday,” indicating the uncertain future schedule as Hurricane Helene approaches.
Hurricane Helene, upgraded to a hurricane during the National Hurricane Center's 11 a.m. update on Wednesday, shows all the signs of becoming a major disruptor. The storm is expected to make landfall in Florida on Thursday, projected as a Category 3 hurricane. “Life-threatening storm surge, damaging winds, and flooding rains to a large portion of Florida and the southeastern United States,” warned the National Hurricane Center. This potentially historic weather event could critically impact the Braves-Mets series.
Analysts are predicting heavy rain to begin in Atlanta by 1 p.m. Wednesday, with storms likely to persist through Friday. Thunderstorms and even tornadoes are being considered real threats for the region. Given the circumstances, the league has been closely monitoring Helene’s trajectory, knowing it must remain agile in adjusting the series schedule if necessary.
Despite the pressing schedule, as of 5 p.m. Tuesday, no shifts had been made to the upcoming games. Thursday's matchup remains slated for a 7:20 p.m. ET start, but MLB may consider moving this game to an earlier slot to avoid possible severe weather patterns. Shifting the game to 1 p.m. or 12 p.m. ET would be a practical option to avert exposure to the hurricane's most intense conditions. Additionally, playing a doubleheader on Wednesday due to Monday's off-day also remains on the table.
The potential disruption brings to mind past instances when severe weather has led to significant schedule changes in Major League Baseball. In 2008, the Astros vs. Cubs series was transported to Milwaukee's Miller Park because of Hurricane Ike. Similarly, in 2017, the Rangers vs. Astros series was moved to Tampa's Tropicana Field due to Hurricane Harvey.
Current considerations include Globe Life Field in Arlington as a feasible alternative site if relocation becomes an imperative. Though every effort will be made to play the games as scheduled, safety and practicality are paramount. If Thursday’s game cannot be played due to the hurricane, it could be rescheduled for Monday, the day off between the conclusion of the regular season and the start of the Wild Card Series. However, this particular rescheduling tactic would only be employed if the game’s result plays a critical role in postseason qualifications. If not, both teams might conclude the season having played 161 games instead of the usual 162.
The scenario places a logistical strain on the Mets, who are poised for a potentially disruptive schedule after this series. In contrast, the Braves are not immediately tasked with traveling, presenting them with a slight scheduling relief. The simplest resolutions appear to be moving Thursday’s game to a time earlier in the day or scheduling a doubleheader on Wednesday.
With every passing hour, MLB officials maintain close surveillance on Hurricane Helene’s path. Adjustments will be made swiftly in the interests of player safety and maintaining the integrity of the competition. As the Braves and Mets continue their chase for postseason glory, both teams—and the league—must navigate the impending natural challenge with precision and care.