Flushing, NY (Sports Network) – Johan Santana pitched a brilliant three-hit shutout and also hit the first home run of his career to lead the New York Mets to a 3-0 win over the Cincinnati Reds at Citi Field.
Santana (6-5), who had lost three of his last four decisions, struck out five and issued three walks for the Mets, who evened this three-game series after losing Monday’s opener and in the process evened their record in July to 3-3. Jason Bay’s two-run single helped pace the New York offense.
Matt Maloney (0-1) was recalled from Triple-A Louisville for the start and suffered the loss after he allowed three runs on seven hits over 5 2/3 innings. Aaron Harang was scheduled to start, but was instead placed on the 15-day disabled list due to lower back pain. The Reds lost for only the second time in their last seven games overall.