NL wild card race: Braves, Mets, Diamondbacks, Padres vie for No. 6 seed

The National League's wild-card race is heating up as the New York Mets and Atlanta Braves are separated by just one game with 16 games remaining in the season. The Mets, who started the season poorly with a 22-33 record, have turned their performance around since May 30, boasting the best record in the majors at 58-33. However, their upcoming schedule poses significant challenges, including series against the Philadelphia Phillies and the Washington Nationals, as well as crucial away games against the Braves and Milwaukee Brewers, who may have already secured their playoff position by then. In contrast, the Braves have faced a season marked by injuries, which have hindered their performance. They will play their toughest remaining games at home against the Dodgers, Mets, and Royals, interspersed with a six-game road trip. Despite their struggles, the Braves still have a chance to claim a wild-card spot, but they currently trail the Diamondbacks and Padres in the standings. Betting odds reflect the uncertainty of the race, with the Braves at -135 to make the playoffs, indicating a 57.5% chance. The Mets, riding a wave of momentum, have odds of -165 to make the playoffs, with a +220 chance of finishing as the sixth seed. The competition is fierce, and both teams are vying for the final wild-card spot. As the regular season approaches its conclusion, the performance of both teams in their remaining games will be critical. The Mets' ability to maintain their momentum and the Braves' need to overcome injuries will ultimately determine who secures the coveted playoff position.