New York: In an astonishing debut, Steven Matz became the only major league pitcher to drive in four runs in his first career game while leading the New York Mets to a 7-2 victory over the Cincinnati Reds on Sunday.
Pitching about 50 miles from home with a huge cheering section on hand, Matz (1-0) got three hits in rejuvenating an anaemic offense and helping the Mets to a three-game sweep. He was very impressive on the mound, too, working into the eighth inning after giving up a home run to his first batter.
Matz became the first player - any position - in franchise history to drive in four runs in his first big league game, including a two-run double off Josh Smith (0-1).
The team’s latest prized pitching prospect, Matz had to wait 3 1/2 extra hours to make his much-anticipated debut because the teams needed 13 innings to first complete Saturday’s game that was suspended by rain. Picking up in the seventh inning, New York won 2-1 with help from two miscues by Reds infielders. Bobby Parnell (1-0) got the win, while Nate Adcock (0-1) took the loss.
In Miami, Zack Greinke pitched 7 2/3 innings for his first victory since May 5 as the Los Angeles Dodgers took the deciding game of their series against the Miami Marlins.
Greinke (6-2) allowed four hits and held the opposition without a run for his third start in a row, extending his scoreless streak to 20 2/3 innings.
Adrian Gonzalez had three hits, including an RBI double. Howie Kendrick had two hits and drove in a run.
Two relievers completed a five-hitter for the Dodgers’ 11th shutout. Kenley Jansen pitched around a leadoff double in the ninth for his 11th save in 12 chances. The Dodgers have allowed 13 runs in their past eight games, and the bullpen has thrown 12 2/3 consecutive scoreless innings in the past five games.
Jose Urena (1-4) pitched five innings, and a defensive misplay resulted in the only run he allowed.
