The Mets return home looking to arrest a seven-game slide and regain ground in a crowded NL playoff race as they open a six-game homestand against Atlanta. New York’s offense has slogged through a season-long funk, posting among the league’s worst run production while the rotation has struggled for length and the bullpen has worn down. The Braves arrive reeling in fourth place but still carry a dangerous lineup led by Acuña Jr. and Olson, with Strider and Elder set to duel the Mets in the opener. The preview centers on three distinct pitching battles—Senga vs Strider, Peterson vs Carrasco, and Senga vs Elder—each dictating who grabs momentum at a critical point in August. Talent remains, but the Mets must tighten defense, unlock clutch hitting, and lean on bullpen resilience to flip their fortunes, while Atlanta tries to re-establish the pace needed to chase a postseason berth.