Mets to celebrate playoff berth even if they don't win NL East

The New York Mets (93-55) endured quite the roller-coaster week that featured being swept by the 62-84 Chicago Cubs before the Amazins defeated the last-place Pittsburgh Pirates (55-92) in four consecutive contests. New York began Monday holding just a one-game lead over the second-place Atlanta Braves in the National League East standings and are on the cusp of securing a playoff berth, and ace Max Scherzer made it clear he intends to recognize earning postseason baseball regardless of where the Mets are in the standings when that day arrives. 

"You celebrate making the playoffs," Scherzer explained, per Anthony DiComo of the MLB website. "There’s a scenario where we fight for this division, come up just short, and then go to the wild card round not appreciative of where we’re at, and then lose that round and then you haven’t even celebrated your season. I think that would be a mistake not to celebrate your season." 

The Mets play at the Braves from Sept. 30 through Oct. 2 in what could prove to be a division-deciding three-game series. It was reported last week that the Mets "still have multiple stars who remain unvaccinated" against COVID-19, which could become an issue if New York has to travel to Canada for road games against the Toronto Blue Jays during a World Series matchup. 

"I mean, it’s a big deal, right? I think it’s definitely something to celebrate," Mets outfielder Brandon Nimmo said of qualifying for the playoffs in any way. "But then there’s also this side of the team being veteran guys and understanding that the job’s not done." 

Star shortstop Francisco Lindor added that he's already discussed celebrating making the playoffs with teammates and isn't afraid of "jinxing" the team's chances of winning the division. For now, the Mets will concentrate on opening a three-game series at the 78-68 Milwaukee Brewers on Monday evening.