In a critical doubleheader matchup, the Atlanta Braves faced off against the New York Mets, with Game 2 taking place under heightened tension. Braves pitcher Chris Sale was unexpectedly ruled out for the second game due to back spasms, which came at a crucial moment as Atlanta needed a victory to secure their place in the playoffs.
In Sale’s absence, right-handed reliever Grant Holmes stepped up, starting the game and delivering a stellar performance. Holmes pitched four scoreless innings, leading the Braves to a 3-0 triumph. This win confirmed Atlanta’s advancement to the playoffs, setting the stage for a wild card series against the San Diego Padres.
Following Game 1 of the doubleheader, Braves general manager Alex Anthopoulos addressed Sale’s condition, emphasizing that it was a “day-to-day thing.” While the decision to hold Sale out was precautionary, it leaves open the possibility for him to pitch in the upcoming wild card series beginning Tuesday.
The Braves had required a victory in one of the two games against the Mets to secure their wild-card spot. In the first game, they experienced a disappointing turn of events when starter Spencer Schwellenbach performed excellently until the eighth inning, where the Braves squandered a three-run lead and ultimately lost after failing to hold onto a one-run advantage in the ninth.