Just in time for the Braves’ playoff push, Michael Harris II delivered another clutch performance Tuesday night, propelling Atlanta to a crucial 5-1 victory over the New York Mets. The win keeps the Braves’ postseason hopes alive, now trailing the Mets by just one game in the National League wild-card race with five games left in the season.
Harris continued his red-hot streak, going 3-for-4 and blasting a home run. He fell just a triple short of hitting for the cycle. This marks his fifth consecutive multi-hit game, where he’s gone an impressive 13-for-24 (.542). Additionally, Harris made a jaw-dropping diving catch in center field, robbing Mets rookie Luisangel Acuna of a hit. Manager Brian Snitker even compared the play to legendary Braves outfielder Andruw Jones.
“I feel like I’m just locked in,” Harris said, reflecting on the catch. “I didn’t think I could reach it, but it’s like an out-of-body experience.”
Harris wasn’t the only rising star to shine for Atlanta. Rookie pitcher Spencer Schwellenbach dominated, pitching seven strong innings, allowing just one run on three hits while striking out four. It was Schwellenbach’s second straight impressive performance against the Mets, drawing comparisons to Braves ace Spencer Strider.
The series opener win is pivotal for Atlanta, as they battle with the Mets and Diamondbacks for the final wild-card spots.
—
Photo Credit: Kent E Roberts / Shutterstock.com