Mets 8, Nationals 5
Angel Pagan ripped an RBI single to highlight a four-run first inning as the New York Mets spoiled Chien-Ming Wang's return to the mound with an 8-5 road triumph over the Washington Nationals on Friday.
Ronny Paulino and Jose Reyes had RBI doubles, and Daniel Murphy and rookie pitcher Dillon Gee added run-scoring singles for New York (55-51), which has won five in a row to move a season-best four games over .500.
Staked to an early lead, Gee (10-3) cruised to his third victory in as many career starts against the Nationals. Gee allowed three runs on four hits in 6 2/3 innings.
Four relievers bridged the gap to Jason Isringhausen, who retired the side in order in the ninth for his fifth save of the season and 298th career.
Wang (0-1), who was making his first start since July 4, 2009, struggled from the start. He had surrendered three runs before recording an out and ended his night after allowing six runs on eight hits in four innings. Wang had been sidelined with a torn capsule in his right shoulder.
Wilson Ramos and Rick Ankiel had RBI singles, and Ryan Zimmerman extended his hitting streak to seven for Washington, which has dropped six in a row and 10 of its last 13.