Pedro Makes Return and History [David Stefanini]

Pedro Martinez pitched today for the first time in almost a year. He threw 76 pitches over 5 innings. He gave up 5 hits, 2 earned runs, while striking out 4 batters. The Mets won the game 10-4 as Pedro won his first game of 2007. It is his first win since August 6th of 2006. More importantly it is the Mets 4th consecutive win. Combine that with Philadelphia losing to Atlanta, and that gives the Mets a 5 game lead in the division.

When Aaron Harang became the second strikeout victim of Pedro this afternoon, Pedro joined a club more exclusive than the 500 HR, 3,000 hit, and 300 win clubs. Pedro now has 3,002 career strikeouts. He is only the 15th pitcher in MLB history to have 3,000 or more strikeouts in his career. He is one of only 3 pitchers in this club to have more strikeouts than innings pitched.

One other note to take from this game. Ken Griffey Jr. tied Cal Ripken Jr. for 17th on the career RBI list. Griffey now has 1,695 for his career.