Game 1: Braves 3, Mets 1
April 29, 2024

The Atlanta Braves edged out the New York Mets in a close contest to open the series, thanks to early scoring and solid pitching. The Braves struck first in the bottom of the 1st inning with Honus Wagner singling and stealing second. Billy Rollins then drove him in with a ground ball single to left field. Dwight Evans followed with another single, allowing Rollins to score and putting the Braves up 2-0.

In the bottom of the 4th, the Braves extended their lead to 3-0 when Red Rolfe scored on a single by Tommy Henrich. Despite a late surge from the Mets, highlighted by Sandy Alomar's solo home run in the 7th inning, the Braves' pitching held firm. Curt Schilling pitched six shutout innings, allowing just four hits while striking out two. Paul Assenmacher and Jesus Molina closed out the game, with Molina earning the save despite allowing a run.

Game 2: Mets 2, Braves 1
April 30, 2024

The Mets bounced back in Game 2, riding the strength of a clutch home run by Damien Shipley. The Braves initially took the lead in the 4th inning with Billy Rollins scoring on a single by Larry Doby. However, the Mets responded in the top of the 6th when Shipley launched a two-run homer to center field, driving in Sandy Alomar and giving the Mets a 2-1 lead.

Hank Henderson delivered a strong performance on the mound for the Mets, pitching seven innings of one-run ball with seven strikeouts. Justin Mills and Rick Honeycutt combined for two scoreless innings to seal the victory. Braves' starter Jim Palmer also pitched well, but the lack of offensive support left him with the loss.

Game 3: Braves 10, Mets 7
May 1, 2024

The series finale was an offensive showcase, with the Braves prevailing in a high-scoring affair. The Mets jumped out to an early 2-0 lead in the top of the 1st inning on Reggie Jackson's two-run homer. However, the Braves answered emphatically in the bottom of the inning, scoring five runs. Ernie Banks doubled in Honus Wagner, Lance Johnson singled in Banks, and Willie Stargell's single scored Johnson after a fielding error.

The Braves extended their lead to 6-2 in the 2nd inning with a Rollins double scoring Ernie Lombardi. The Mets fought back in the 4th inning, tying the game at 6-6 thanks to a series of hits, including a two-run double by Robin Yount.

Banks put the Braves back in front in the bottom of the 4th with a solo homer, his second extra-base hit of the game. The Braves added insurance runs in the 5th and 7th innings, with Tommy Henrich's sacrifice fly and another Banks double driving in runs. Despite a late homer from Shipley, the Mets couldn't close the gap. Phil Niekro struggled but earned the win, while Elias Sosa and Ron Perranoski shut the door in relief.

Series MVP: Ernie Banks

Ernie Banks was named the series MVP for his standout performance throughout the three games. Banks batted .467 with two doubles, a home run, and three RBIs. His critical hits and solid defense were pivotal in the Braves' victories, particularly in the high-scoring Game 3.

Quotes and Key Moments:

• Curt Schilling on his Game 1 performance: "I felt strong out there. The defense was great behind me, and it was important to set the tone for the series."
• Damien Shipley on his Game 2 home run: "I was just looking for a pitch to drive, and thankfully I got it. We needed that win to stay competitive."
• Ernie Banks on his Game 3 heroics: "It's always fun to contribute, especially in a game like this where everyone was hitting. We knew we had to stay aggressive."

The Braves' ability to capitalize on early scoring opportunities and the depth of their bullpen played crucial roles in securing the series' victory. With this series win, Atlanta continues to showcase their resilience and depth, critical attributes for the long season ahead.