Carlos Carrasco struck out the side in both the first and second innings en route to an 11-K performance, lifting the Mets to a 7-1 victory over the Pirates Thursday night in Citi Field.
MLB honored Roberto Clemente and Carrasco is a former Clemente Award winner so it was extra satisfying to see him succeed on this particular day. Carrasco built up a big pitch count early but by the end of his outing he was pitching even better than he was in the beginning.
Carrasco was at 93 pitches after five innings but Buck Showalter had him go back for the sixth. Carrasco rewarded him with a 12-pitch inning. He finished his night with 6 IP, 4 H, 1 ER, 2 BB and 11 Ks and picked up his 15th win of the season.
Meanwhile, the Mets’ offense finally sprang to life, including the DH spot, which produced three hits and four RBIs. Daniel Vogelbach smoked a ball in the first inning for a two-run double and he also added an RBI single in the third.
The Pirates brought in a lefty reliever so when the DH spot came around again, Showalter pinch hit with Mark Vientos. The rookie delivered his first hit in the majors, an RBI single in the fourth.
Francisco Lindor also added a two-run homer giving him 24 HR and 94 RBIs on the year.
Gut Reaction: Carrasco pitched superb. The bullpen was spotless. The offense reappeared, especially the DH. This is the way they should play against inferior teams. The Cub series has put them in a bind. They need to play more games like this one. Their destiny is in their hands. LGM
Nice to see Dr. Jeckyll after three nights of Mr. Hyde.