Daisuke Matsuzaka wins 3rd straight start

CINCINNATI — The Cincinnati Reds probably would have liked Daisuke Matsuzaka‘s first career appearance against them to come at another time — such as next season.

Matsuzaka scattered four hits in 7 2/3 innings to win his third consecutive start, outdueling Mat Latos in the New York Mets’ 1-0 victory on Wednesday that further dampened the Reds’ hopes of hosting the National League wild-card game on Tuesday.

The Reds came into the game in third place in the Central Division and second in the wild-card standings, one game behind Pittsburgh. The Pirates and Reds end the regular season with a three-game series starting Friday in Cincinnati.

“We have to find a way to get that big hit,” manager Dusty Baker said. “This team (Reds) seems to take the hard road most of the time. It is very important to have the home field advantage but it’s not impossible no matter where you play.”

Matsuzaka (3-3) allowed two walks and hit a batter. He struck out six and evened his record after three losses and a no-decision in his first four starts since joining the Mets in August. Manager Terry Collins said the forme..

via New York Mets vs. Cincinnati Reds – Recap – September 25, 2013 – ESPN.