Friday, April 25, 2014

Mets use strong pitching to take series from Cardinals



The New York Mets won three of their four games against the defending National League Champion Cardinals behind great starting pitching.

The Mets (12-10) were able to hold the Cardinals to a remarkable six runs in the four game series.  
Jenrry Mejia started the first game, and he was spectacular, shutting St. Louis out into the seventh inning, and only allowing four hits. The Mets were able to get just enough hitting as they opened the series off with a 2-0 win.

The Cardinals sent their ace Adam Wainwright to the mound in the second game and came out with a 3-0 win to even the series. Dillon Gee pitched well for the Mets, however the Mets weren’t able to give him any run support.

Game three was by far the most exciting game of the series. Things looked grim for the Mets after their first nine outs came by way of strikeout. Michael Wacha who is just 22, was in a grove early, however he unraveled in the fourth inning, walking in two runs. 

The Mets held a 3-1 lead heading into the ninth inning with Kyle Farnsworth coming in to save the game. With two men on base Daniel Descalso doubled - the first runner scored easily - but there was a fantastic play-at-the plate between Matt Carpenter and Met’s catcher Travis d'Arnaud. Carpenter would have been the tying run, but d’Arnoud made an unbelievable swipe tag on him to preserve the win for the Mets. 

The New York Mets posted the play on their website:


In the series finale, the Mets went with Bartolo Colon, who did not disappoint. The 40 year old pitched seven strong innings, only allowing one run on four hits.
Former Red Sox pitcher Daisuke Matsuzaka came in for the ninth inning and recorded his first save as a Met. Manager Terry Collins was impressed enough with Matsuzaka that he is considering making him the fulltime closer.

The Mets hope their starting pitching can hold up as they begin a three game series against divisional rivals, the Marlins, tonight.

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