CINCINNATI — For one night it all came together and Rafael Montero was all the Mets once thought he could be.
Montero pounded the strike zone, missed bats and pitched the game of his major league career. Just maybe the Mets can finally be excited about the enigmatic right-hander.
With Montero firing a three-hitter over 8 ¹/₃ shutout innings, the Mets beat the Reds 2-0 on Wednesday at Great American Ball Park to snap a two-game skid.
“I am so thankful to this team, they have given me many opportunities, I am aware of that,” Montero said. “I am just glad that the changes I have made as of late have really come through.”
Joey Votto’s fourth-inning double was the Reds’ only hit until the ninth against Montero, who struck out eight and walked four. In his last four starts he is 2-1 with a 2.10 ERA.
“I think [Montero] really thinks he’s got a home in the rotation and he should think that,” manager Terry Collins said.
Wilmer Flores and Kevin Plawecki stroked consecutive RBI doubles against Homer Bailey in the first inning to give the Mets their runs.
Montero, at 104 pitches, returned to pitch the ninth and got the first out before loading the bases on two hits and an intentional walk. AJ Ramos recorded the final two outs for the save.