Murphy HRs again; Mets beat Arrieta, Cubs for 2-0 NLCS lead
NEW YORK (AP) – Daniel Murphy hit his fifth playoff homer and rookie Noah Syndergaard outpitched Chicago Cubs ace Jake Arrieta, sending the New York Mets to a 4-1 victory Sunday night and a 2-0 lead in the NL Championship Series.
Mets outfielder Curtis Granderson robbed Chris Coghlan of a homer, stole two bases and scored twice. Murphy became the first player since Tampa Bay slugger Evan Longoria in 2008 to homer in four consecutive postseason games.
The best-of-seven series shifts to Wrigley Field on Tuesday night, with New York ace Jacob deGrom scheduled to pitch against Kyle Hendricks. The wild-card Cubs need a comeback to capture their first pennant in 70 years.
Arrieta gave up hits to his first three batters and was pulled after five innings – matching his shortest start of the year.
Slumping star David Wright put the Mets in front with a hit-and-run double in the first. Murphy followed with a two-run shot.
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