Mets’ Wheeler leads shutout of Pirates

Associated Press

PITTSBURGH

Zack Wheeler didn’t receive much help from the New York Mets on offense. Luckily for the Mets, Wheeler was prepared to help himself.

The right-hander pitched six strong innings and drove in the lone run, leading New York to a 1-0 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates on Sunday.

“I think being successful definitely helps,” Wheeler said. “I have the same confidence, or same demeanor, but when you’re getting guys out on a consistent basis and doing what you want to do pitch by pitch, then it makes it a lot easier and fun.”

Wheeler (5-6) allowed five hits with seven strikeouts and one walk, and got his fourth RBI of the season on a double in the fifth. He won a third straight start after giving up a combined six runs in 14 2/3 innings over his past two.

The Mets split the four-game series with the Pirates, who lost for just the fourth time in their past 19 games.

As much as he enjoyed shutting out Pittsburgh through six, Wheeler said he was more proud of his double. It helped his own cause after Luis Guillorme singled with two outs. Wheeler sent a drive off Joe Musgrove (4-5) over right fielder Gregory Polanco to score Guillorme from second.

“It was a fun battle,” Musgrove said.