Bidding for starter's job, Matsuzaka allows 1 run in 6 innings and helps Mets beat Cards 5-3

PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. – Daisuke Matsuzaka allowed one run over six innings in his bid to become the Mets' fifth starter, helping New York beat the St. Louis Cardinals 5-3 Monday.

Competing with Jenrry Mejia, Dice-K allowed three runs and three walks, striking out five. Matsuzaka hit Stephen Piscotty on the back of the helmet with a changeup opening the seventh and was replaced by Vic Black.

Daniel Murphy went 2 for 3, including a two-run double in the third off Shelby Miller.

Miller gave up three runs and three hits in five innings. He struck out four and walked three.