Mets: Zack Wheeler’s best start in four years gives team best record in MLB

Starting pitcher Zack Wheeler came up big for the New York Mets in his first start of 2018. The result helped give the Mets the best record in MLB.

All eyes were on Zack Wheeler Wednesday night against the Miami Marlins as this was his first start since last July. Wheeler pitched his best game since 2014 and helped the New York Mets claim the best record in baseball.

The game did not start off like the Mets would have hoped. Wheeler gave up a solo home run to the second batter he faced. Many were sure the Mets would come back from that, but giving up a first-inning run is never a good sign.

After the first inning, Wheeler gave up just one more hit. He was taken out after seven innings and just 83 pitches.

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In total, Wheeler struck out seven batters and began the season with a 1.29 ERA. Of all 17 starts Wheeler made in 2017, none were better than his 2018 debut. His best start of 2017 was against the Texas Rangers where he also gave up one run over seven innings.

However, during that game, he gave up six hits and three walks, while striking out five. His last start that was better than this one was his complete game shutout on June 19^th, 2014, which was also against the Marlins. That was more than 30 starts ago.

On the topic of strikeouts, his seven strikeouts match the most he threw in a game in all of 2017, which he did just once.

The only thing to worry about was the home run, which is because has always been known for home runs.

Through 17 starts in 2017, Wheeler gave up 15 home runs. That included a stretch of nine over his final 24 innings.

Excellent Eight

The outing wasn’t just good for Wheeler, but for the team as well. He leads them to their eighth straight victory. This victory was special for another reason because of the game played in Boston.

Coming into Wednesday night’s game, the Boston Red Sox had a nine-game winning streak. For the better part of the season, they owned the best record in baseball. With a loss to the hated New York Yankees, Boston dropped to 9-2, giving the Mets the best record in baseball.

Next: Mets: Mickey Callaway avoiding rookie manager mistakes

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How long can the Mets keep their win streak that rivals only April 2015? How long can they keep the best record in baseball? Only time will tell, but starting tomorrow the Mets will be back home with their loving fans to cheer them on.