The Mets took on the Philadelphia Phillies tonight, for the first of five, as Zack Wheeler squared off against David Buchanan.
What you should know:
Wheeler started off the night striking out six of the first eight batters he faced, and would ultimately pitch 6.1 innings, striking out nine and scattering four hits and only one earned run, earning his second win of the season.
David Buchanan would pitch 6.2 innings for Philadelphia, allowing four runs and seven hits, striking out two and allowing two walks, taking the loss.
The Mets got off to an early lead in the second and never looked back when Travis d’Arnaud, recently activated from the DL, grounded into a 6-4-3 double play.
Chris Young would add on to the Mets lead in the fourth, hitting a two-run shot. Young would end up going 2-4 on the night
In the fifth inning, Buchanan would load the bases, and end up walking Curtis Granderson to force in a run.
Scott Rice and Vic Black would combine to pitch 1.2 scoreless innings before Jenrry Mejia slammed the door shut in the ninth with three consecutive strikeouts, earning his fifth save of the season. Mejia has yet to allow a run in 10 appearances as a reliever.
Mets pitchers struck out 15 batters tonight!
Thoughts:
Well it was definitely refreshing to see Zack Wheeler on top of his game tonight. After a subpar year up until this point for the most part, hopefully this will be a turning point in his season and we will see more outings like this. Wheeler is packed with potential and we have seen it, so I am excited to see more of this. It’s unfair to compare him to Matt Harvey, but nonetheless, he is a very talented pitcher in his own respect.
Final score: Mets 4, Phillies 1
Win: Zack Wheeler (2-5)
Loss: David Buchanan (1-1)
Save: Jenrry Mejia (5)
On deck:
The Mets’ take on the Phillies again tomorrow night, with Rafael Montero facing off against A.J. Burnett.
