Siena Grad Shuts Out NY Mets

WASHINGTON - Former Siena College ace John Lannan pitched his first Major League shutout Tuesday night as the Washington Nationals blanked the New York Mets, 4-0.  The 24-year-old Long Island native scattered seven hits, and was aided by a pair of dazzling catches by centerfielder Nyjer Morgan.

Says Lannan, "I'm a groundball pitcher, I pitch to contact.  I'm not a strikeout pitcher. I've just got to keep the walks down and keep the hitters off balance."  He did just that with only one strikeout and no walks.

On June 6, Lannan picked up his first MLB complete game against the Mets in a 7-1 victory.  And he was equal to the task again Tuesday.  "He pitches well against us. He seems like he doesn't really stick to one game plan.", said Mets third baseman David Wright.  "He goes at you a number of different ways, really mixes it up. Throws a lot of strikes".

"I was working in and down today", added Lannan.  "I wasn't one sided like I was a couple starts ago, so that was it. That was the key for me today."

It also marked the first win for Jim Riggleman as Washington's new interim manager, since replacing the fired Manny Acta last week.  And Riggleman certainly appreciates the efforts of his emerging ace.  "Lannan is just a polished guy. He's whatever, mid-20's, but he pitches like a real seasoned veteran. And I think he relishes the role of being the lead guy on our staff.  We always feel good when he's out there."

Despite pitching for MLB's worst team record wise, Lannan improves his record to 7-7, and lowers his ERA to 3.33.