The Atlanta Braves and New York Mets are set to conclude their four-game series Thursday night at Citi Field, wrapping up a demanding schedule that featured seven games in just ten days. Throughout this stretch, the Braves have gained significant ground, winning five of six games to strengthen their position in both the NL East division and the Wild Card race. Atlanta will rely on pitcher Grant Holmes to continue this momentum as they aim to take the final game against their division rivals.

Grant Holmes’ Recent Performance Sparks Optimism

Holmes enters this crucial matchup following a challenging but scoreless outing in Miami, where he pitched 5.2 innings, allowing five hits and five walks while striking out five batters. Over the past month, Holmes has demonstrated consistent quality, compiling a 3.76 ERA alongside advanced metrics of 3.46 FIP and 2.77 xFIP across five starts totaling 26.1 innings. This game will mark Holmes’ first pitching appearance against the Mets this season. Success will hinge on his ability to command his fastball early against New York’s experienced hitters before employing the slider that has proven especially effective during the 2025 season.

Mets Counter with Griffin Canning Amid Mixed Results

The Mets will send right-handed Griffin Canning to the mound, a familiar name linked to the Jorge Soler trade last November. Despite being non-tendered by the Braves shortly afterward, Canning has had moments of success with New York, starting the season with a 2.90 ERA, though recent performances have been less reliable. In his last three starts, Canning has surrendered 13 runs over 14.2 innings, signaling a regression. Known for his diverse pitching arsenal, which includes a fastball, cutter, slider, knuckle curve, and changeup, Canning has found his changeup to be his most effective pitch so far.

Schedule Notes and What’s Next in This Rivalry

Due to Major League Baseball’s balanced scheduling system, the Braves and Mets will not face each other again until a series from August 12 to 14, followed shortly by another meeting from August 22 to 24. This spacing is unusual given the intensity of their recent matchups but sets the stage for continued competition later in the season. Tonight’s decisive game is scheduled to begin at 7:10 p.m. ET, providing a critical opportunity for the Braves to solidify their NL East aspirations ahead of the stretch run.