Wed Sep 25 03:36:12 UTC 2024: ## Braves Edge Out Mets in Pivotal Matchup, Keeping Playoff Hopes Alive

**Atlanta, GA** – Michael Harris II continued his hot streak, powering the Atlanta Braves to a crucial 5-1 victory over the New York Mets on Tuesday night. The win keeps the Braves’ playoff hopes alive, as they now trail the Mets by just one game in the National League wild-card race with five games remaining.

Harris, who fell a triple shy of hitting for the cycle, went 3-for-4 with a home run and made another spectacular diving catch in center field. His performance extended his hitting streak to five games, with an impressive 13 hits in 24 at-bats during that stretch. Manager Brian Snitker praised Harris’ defensive play, comparing it to former Braves legend Andruw Jones.

“I just feel like I’m in the zone right now,” said Harris, attributing his recent success to a feeling of being “out of body.”

Joining Harris in leading the Braves was young right-hander Spencer Schwellenbach. He delivered a strong seven-inning performance, limiting the Mets to just one run on three hits and a walk while striking out four. This marked Schwellenbach’s second consecutive stellar outing against the Mets, following his 11-strikeout, seven-inning shutout in a 4-0 victory on July 27.

“He reminds me of [Spencer] Strider in his rookie year,” said Harris, referencing the Braves’ ace who is currently sidelined due to elbow surgery. “How poised going out there in those big games against good teams.”

The victory came in the opening game of a critical three-game series against the Mets, who are tied with the Diamondbacks for the final two playoff spots. The Diamondbacks will face the Giants in their matchup on Tuesday.

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