Mets eliminate Pirates from playoff contention

Associated Press

NEW YORK

David Wright’s record-breaking hit was a little dribbler toward third base, ugly enough to prompt plenty of ribbing from his New York Mets teammates.

“I don’t think he really wanted that particular hit to be the one played over and over again,” pitcher Jeremy Hefner said, drawing laughs.

Wright set the franchise record for hits and Hefner bounced back from a horrendous start in a 6-0 victory over Pittsburgh on Wednesday night that eliminated the Pirates from playoff contention.

Ruben Tejada tied a career high with four hits, including two RBI singles, and Scott Hairston doubled home a run as the Mets took advantage of some shoddy Pittsburgh defense to win for the fifth time in six games.

“Obviously, it’s humbling,” Wright said. “A little more exciting — we won today.”

Jeff Locke (0-3) was chased in the fourth inning and is still searching for his first major league win after nine starts. The loss left Pittsburgh 71/2 games behind St. Louis, with seven to play, in the race for the second NL wild card.

Tied for the NL Central lead a week after the All-Star game, the Pirates have faded quickly in the second half for the second consecutive year. They have dropped 19 of 25 and must go 5-2 the rest of the way to avoid a 20th straight losing season.

Earlier on Wednesday, club president Frank Coonelly said manager Clint Hurdle and GM Neal Huntington will be back next season.

“Support’s always good, absolutely,” Hurdle said.

Wright reached on an infield single during a four-run third for his 1,419th hit, snapping a tie with Ed Kranepool atop the team’s career list.

“I got a chance to show off my blazing speed,” Wright said. “Ten years from now, when I’m telling my kids, it’s going to be a line drive. It’s going to be a little different. But I’ll take it.

“A hit’s a hit, and just really excited I could do it at home. The fans were great to me.”