The 2024 MLB playoffs kick off on Tuesday with the wildcard round, featuring an exciting clash between the New York Mets (89-73) and the Milwaukee Brewers (93-69). The first game of this best-of-three series is set for American Family Field at 5:30 PM ET.
Luis Severino, boasting an 11-7 record and a 3.91 ERA, will take the mound for the Mets. The Brewers will respond with Freddy Peralta, who holds an 11-9 record and a 3.68 ERA.
Recent history favors Milwaukee, as they have won 8 of the last 10 matchups against New York, dominating the regular season series 5-1.
For expert MLB picks, follow our predictions which have proven reliable.
Mets Aim for a Strong Start in the Series
The Mets turned their season around after a rocky start, clinching a playoff berth with a crucial victory in Game 1 of their doubleheader against Atlanta on Monday. This win pushed the defending National League champion Arizona Diamondbacks out of contention for the playoffs, as the three teams were in a tight race for the last two wildcard slots.
Now, New York faces a tough challenge against a Milwaukee team that has had the upper hand in their previous encounters. The Mets managed to win their last game against the Brewers on Sunday, giving them momentum as they look to continue their success.
New York’s offense averaged 4.75 runs per game this season, finishing with a .247 batting average, ranking 12th in the league. They achieved a .320 on-base percentage (8th) and a .416 slugging percentage (9th).
Star player Francisco Lindor led the Mets with a .273 batting average and 91 RBIs, while Pete Alonso topped the team with 34 home runs. Lindor played a pivotal role in clinching the playoff spot, hitting a two-run homer in the ninth inning of Monday’s game.
New York’s pitching staff also performed well, allowing 3.91 runs per game. Their opponents had a .229 batting average against them, ranking second in the league. The team’s ERA was 14th, with a WHIP of 1.26 placing them 18th overall.
However, Severino struggled in his last outing, allowing seven hits and four runs over four innings, which resulted in a 5-1 loss to Atlanta.
Brewers Seek Redemption in the Playoffs
The Brewers celebrated another NL Central title this season, marking their second consecutive win and third in four years. However, they have faced early exits in the playoffs, losing in the wildcard round three times, including last year. They are confident as they take on a Mets team they have historically dominated, winning eight of their last ten encounters.
During the regular season, Milwaukee averaged 4.80 runs per game. Their .248 batting average placed them eighth in the league, while they achieved a .326 on-base percentage (4th) and a .403 slugging percentage (13th). They outscored the Mets 26-17 in their six regular-season games, and they hope to maintain this offensive prowess in the upcoming series.
Leading the Brewers, William Contreras posted a .281 batting average, and Willy Adames contributed significantly with 32 home runs and 112 RBIs.
Milwaukee’s pitching was among the league’s elite, allowing just 3.62 runs per game. Their opponents had a .237 batting average against them, ranking 10th, while their ERA of 3.65 placed them fifth overall, and their WHIP of 1.23 was ninth.
In his most recent start, Peralta surrendered two hits and two runs in 5.1 innings, resulting in a 2-1 loss to Pittsburgh. A similar performance will be crucial for his team’s success in the playoffs.
Injury concerns include Sal Frelick, who is questionable for this matchup.
Expert Predictions for Mets vs. Brewers
The Brewers enter the playoffs after winning three of their last four home games, while the Mets have struggled on the road, losing three of their last five away games. Milwaukee’s offense is heating up, having scored 22 runs in their last four home games, compared to New York’s 13 runs over the same span on the road.
Milwaukee has had success against the Mets this season, with a .256 batting average in their matchups. Severino’s recent performance raises concerns, as he allowed 10 runs over his last three starts. He has struggled in his last three road starts, allowing at least three runs each time and has an 0-1 record in three games against the Brewers, giving up 11 runs, six of which came during this season.
The Mets’ bullpen has also shown signs of fatigue, especially after a doubleheader on Monday, which could hinder their ability to contain Milwaukee’s offense. Meanwhile, Peralta has been strong in recent outings, giving up only four runs in his last three starts. He holds a 3-0 record against the Mets, conceding just one run in his last two starts versus them. With Milwaukee boasting one of the best bullpens in the league, they are well-positioned to limit New York’s offensive impact. Expect a solid performance from the Brewers as they look to secure a win on Tuesday.
