Mets Walk Into the Braves’ Den Looking for Respect

The Mets and Braves have spent the better part of recent memory trading places atop the NL East, and every series between them carries the texture of unfinished business. New York rolls into Atlanta carrying whatever psychological luggage the standings have packed for them, while the Braves — favored at ATL -193 — play the role of the established power defending its turf.

That’s a hefty favorite number, which suggests Atlanta’s roster is operating at a different altitude right now. But the Mets don’t travel quietly, and any team willing to show up at Truist Park on a holiday weekend is arriving with something to say.

The NL East subplot writes itself: wins here can reshape the division picture before the All-Star break arrives to scramble everything. Both fan bases will be watching this one between bites of potato salad.

A rivalry with real divisional stakes and a big favorite number that practically dares the underdog — this one rates chunky.