Barring a horrific collapse, one that would dwarf the infamous meltdown of 2007, the Mets will reach the postseason for the first time in nine years.
If October baseball is indeed their destiny, it will come to pass with the help of rookies such as Steven Matz, Noah Syndergaard and Michael Conforto.
In that sense, manager Terry Collins sees the benefit of the uniquely-timed Subway Series against the Yankees, with Citi Field expected to play host to a weekend of playoff-like crowds.
DataSubway Series history: Yankees vs. Mets
"I think it's going to be beneficial for some of our young players to understand the focus and the concentration you've got to have to play under those circumstances," Collins said.