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Sports

Braves eye history books in finale with Mets

By Sports Network
Published | Updated

Having already locked up a spot in the playoffs, the Atlanta Braves can set a major league record Sunday if they can beat the New York Mets.

The Braves have won 22 straight games started by Kris Medlen, who will take the mound today. Medlen's only loss this season came in relief. The right- hander, in his first full season following Tommy John surgery, threw seven innings in a no-decision against the Marlins on Tuesday.

The Braves have won Medlen's last 22 starts dating to 2010, increasing his franchise record. The major league record is 23 consecutive starts by the Yankees' Whitey Ford and the Giants' Carl Hubbell.

Medlen is 2-0 with a 1.82 ERA in 14 games (4 starts) all-time against the Mets.

It's also expected to be an emotional day for third baseman Chipper Jones, who will play his final regular season home game. Jones, who will retire following the playoffs, will head to Pittsburgh along with the rest of the Braves to finish the regular season.

The Braves trail the NL East-leading Washington Nationals by four games with four left to play.

Last night, Jason Heyward and Martin Prado each drove in a run and the Braves pitching staff blanked the Mets, 2-0.

Mike Minor (11-10) was nearly untouchable. He gave up just three hits over 6 1/3 innings while striking out four. Minor won for the fourth time this month and has given up just three runs over his last five starts. He's won five straight decisions.

"His velocity has been up and has been pounding the zone," said Braves second baseman Dan Uggla. "He's throwing all three pitches for strikes and hitting the corners. He's not just working in the middle of the plate, he's getting ahead of hitters. He's really turned the corner."

After putting two runners on in the ninth, Craig Kimbrel struck out pinch- hitter Ike Davis and Lucas Duda to earn his 41st save of the season.

Chris Young (4-9) was once again charged with the loss despite tossing his fourth straight quality start. He pitched six strong innings, but gave up two runs on seven hits. He struck out six.

"Ultimately, it's about team wins and losses," said Young. "All in all, there were some really good things. It was a great year to bounce back, it's the most I've pitched since 2008. There were a lot of positives."

Jenrry Mejia starts today for the Mets. The righty makes his third start of 2012. On Monday, he tossed five shutout innings against the Pirates.

The Mets are only 6-11 against the Braves this season and 2-6 at Turner Field. Atlanta has won 11 of the previous 13 meetings between the NL East foes.