When Mets fans should start worrying about the Braves and Phillies

The Atlanta Braves and Philadelphia Phillies have been pretty unstoppable of late. Huge winning streaks for both and a more average performance from the New York Mets versus much tougher opponents have drastically cut the lead in the National League East. The Mets were winning games at an unsustainable rate all year-long. Over the last few weeks, the Braves and Phillies began to do the same.

The shrinking Mets lead doesn’t have the majority of fans concerned. It’s pretty simple as to why. The Mets have done what they need to do. So have the Braves and Phillies—they’ve just done it at a pace they won’t be able to keep up with over a shorter period of time.

Meanwhile, the Mets have been consistently winning at a more normal pace. That doesn’t mean the lead is completely safe. There is one thing that could happen which should have fans a little more worried.

Mets fans can start worrying when the team stops winning

A losing streak should have Mets fans concerned. When the Mets can’t win games, that’s when the concern meter rises. They can’t control what other clubs do. They can only manage the games they actually play.

The Mets have made it this far with no more than two losses in a row. It’s pretty incredible. Two months into the season, three losses in a row feels like it would happen even for the best of teams. The Mets have managed to avoid this.

Unlike the recent stretch by the Braves and Phillies, what New York is doing is sustainable. Winning two out of three on a regular basis is manageable. Even with the occasional series loss or split, avoiding the broomsticks of a sweep can make a huge difference.

Every Mets fan knew June would be a challenge. It was inevitable that they might lose some leverage in the division. It happened but not for the reasons some believed it would.

The Mets are playing well. The Braves and Phillies are just playing better—partly because of their schedules. Things will even out eventually for all three of these contenders.