The Mets and Braves are set for another series beginning Friday, Aug. 22. Atlanta won two of three in the last set on the road. This round will be in Atlanta.
New York is a -101 underdog, while Atlanta is -121 on DraftKings Sportsbook. The game total is set at over/under 8.5 runs.
Here’s my prediction and pick for Friday’s Mets vs. Braves matchup.
Mets vs. Braves prediction
The Mets had World Series aspirations heading into this season, yet they’re just barely clinging to a Wild Card spot toward the end of August. This should be a relatively easy series against the Braves, as Atlanta is 11 games under .500.
That being said, New York lost two of three to the Braves the last time they met — about 10 days ago. The Mets are on quite a cold stretch, holding a 5-16 record since July 28. They need to heat up before the playoffs if they expect to make any serious run.
Perhaps they will get a boost from today’s starter: Nolan McLean. He debuted against the Mariners, pitching 5.1 scoreless innings. He allowed two hits and four walks while striking out eight. It was promising, and potentially what the Mets need for this stretch run.
Although the Braves are 11 games under .500, they’ve been playing great lately. They’re 11-3 in their past 14 games, winning all four of their recent series. They’re starting Joey Wentz, who has a 2.60 ERA through seven outings with Atlanta. He’s been much more consistent since joining the team, but he does have a 4.72 ERA for the entire season.
Wentz allowed just one earned run in back-to-back outings, and now gets to play the struggling Mets. It doesn’t guarantee anything, but it’s definitely a positive for the Braves.
Mets vs. Braves pick, best bet
While I believe McLean will have another good outing, it’s hard not to bet against the Mets right now. New York is on a terrible run, nearly falling out of the third Wild Card spot.
Meanwhile, the Braves are playing well, even though they’re far from a playoff spot. Atlanta moneyline is the way to go.