Ever since the summer began, the NL East was viewed by most as a two-team race. The reigning world champion Braves got off to a slow start. But the return of all-star outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. was what the team needed to get hot.
With a 14-game winning streak in early June, the Braves were headed back where they belonged atop the division.
Only one problem: The other team — the Mets — continued to play like a true contender as well. The Braves got within a half-game of first place, but the Mets were relentless.