Braves/Mets: But I digress.. my advice is to get it early!
(MLB) Atlanta vs. NY Mets, 07/29/2021 12:10 PM, Score: 6 - 3
Money Line: 127.00 Atlanta (Away)
Result: Win
Braves (Smyly) vs. Mets (Walker)

The Mets outdueled Atlanta to earn a split of a series critical to both teams. Today, early, It is Taijuan Walker on the hill for the Mets. This season and last, Walker has been a go-to guy for me.. until he wasn’t. Someone turned on the runs-given-up tap at the All-star break, and he has been humbled in both starts since. He is apparently not injured, just lost his stuff. Temporary setback or sign of what is to come? Note Walker’s monthly ERAs: May 1.61, June 3.26, and July 9.00!

For the Mets, it is an old veteranon the mound. It may seem like Drew Smyly has been around forever, but it is only 10 years since his career started. He doesn’t chew through the innings quite the way he used to, but still usually pitches into the 6th. Note that he is a 5-0 (ERA 2.19) in his last seven games.

We all recognize that the Mets are generally a light hitting team. Atlanta is considered the reverse. Well, the hard-hitting Braves have scored 2 runs or fewer in 4 of 5 games. You can’t lose 2 major offensive components and not take a hit (so to speak)..

Both bullpens have been pretty good of late.

This game likely balances on the starting pitching. The Mets have a very good home record and the series is key for both teams. I normally love Walker in this situation, but looking at his digression lately, I am concerned. Smyly has been more than solid in July, and appears, if anything, to be improving as the season goes on. I am wagering that the Braves win outright!