Game 122 Recap-
Mets RH Mike Pelfrey(11-8,3.91) was great over 7 innings and got some huge defensive plays from 3b David Wright and CF Carlos Beltran, helping New York defeat the Pittsburgh Pirates 2-1 Friday Night at PNC Park. Beltran threw out a runner at home in the 7th and Wright started a tough double play in the 2nd to erase big Pirates threats. “Beltran’s throw was huge,” Pelfrey said. “You couldn’t ask for a better throw. It was right on the money. David also turned the big double play. When you know you’re guys are going to make plays behind you, it helps.”
Offensively, not much to speak of, as both clubs pitched well and played solid D in the field. Pirates RH SP, new comer Jason Davis(1-2,1.80), pitched another strong game for his new club, allowing 2 first inning runs( Wright rbi single and a wild pitch allowing the 2nd run). Davis gave up 6 hits over 7, with 3 Ks and walks.LH John Grabow(3.03) and RH Craig Hansen pitched shut out 8th and 9th innings to keep the Pirates one swing away.
Pelfrey was the story for New York, allowing 7 hits without a walk and struck out 1. “He did a good job,” New York manager Jerry Manuel said. “He got the big outs when he needed them. It’s a sign that he’s evolving into a quality pitcher. He doesn’t panic when he gets in trouble. He’s maturing into the type of pitcher that can get the big outs.” Manuel worked his injury depleted bullpen(Closer Billy Wagner is on the DL) for 2 innings, using 3 to get the win and a save for RH Aaron Heilman(#3). The Pirates lone run came on a solo shot by SS Jack Wilson in the 8th.
Star of the Game-
Pelfrey- 2nd year pitcher becoming a top 3 pitcher for the Mets. New York will be careful to manage his innings as he is already near his career high of 152 2/3 recorded in 2007.
Pirates Notes-
Club plans to monitor LH Paul Maholm’s(8-7, 3.69) innings as he approaches his career high # of 177 2/3 innings, he is currently at 161… Manager John Russell also expressed concern that he is overworking CF Nate McLouth’s (116 starts in 121 games). Look for some rest for the all star in September….1b Adam Laroche had 3 hits to lead the club
Next Game-
7:05, Saturday, game 2 of 4 vs the Mets at PNC Park
Pirates LH Zach Duke(4-10,5.10) vs Mets RH Pedro Martinez(3-3,5.57)
