Ny Mets (0-5) at Atlanta (4-1), 1:05 pm EDT
ATLANTA -- An intriguing pitching matchup will take
place Sunday when Pedro Martinez takes the mound for the winless
New York Mets against John Smoltz and the Atlanta Braves.
Martinez (0-0, 4.50 ERA) is in search of his first win with the
Mets, who are suffering through their worst start since 1963. He
gave them their best chance at a victory Opening Day with six
strong innings against the Cincinnati Reds.
The 33-year-old Martinez struck out 12 and left with a 6-3 lead.
New York's bullpen blew the lead, however, and saw Cincinnati
walk away with a 7-6 victory.
Atlanta is one of just four major league teams Martinez has a
losing record against, posting a 5-6 mark in 19 appearances,
including 12 starts.
Things have not improved since for the Mets, who suffered a 6-3
setback to the Braves on Saturday.
Brian Jordan's grand slam in the second inning proved to be the
difference, lifting Atlanta to its fourth straight win since a
9-0 loss on Opening Day.
Smoltz (0-1, 32.40 ERA) was the losing pitcher in that lone
setback, lasting just 1 2/3 innings in his first start since
2001. He was battered for seven runs and six hits while walking
two.
In his role as closer, Smoltz had more saves (24) against the
Mets than any other team and is 10-9 lifetime vs. New York.