Today In Mets History: 1973- Ted Martinez Drives In Four Runs Off Lefty

September 3, 1973: The 1973 Mets were on the verge on an incredible September. After tonights victory they were still in 5th place but only 5 1/2 games out of first, with four other teams to catch,; not an easy task. For the remainder of September the Mets would go 18-6 winning 18 of 24 games.

The Met bats were asleep for the night of September 3, 1973 except for utility infielder Teddy Martinez, inserted in the line up as the third baseman.

In the bottom of the 2nd, Martinez singled with the bases loaded off Steve Carlton, driving in his first run of the night. In the bottom of the 4th, Martinez hit his only HR of the season (he only hit seven in 1480 career at bats) also off Carlton. In the 5th inning the bases were loaded again for Martinez, and he doubled to right field scoring Cleon Jones & Rusty Staub. Staub had two hits and scored two runs on the night. Martinez topped off his night with a single in the 8th inning, finishing up with four hits, a HR & four RBIs. On the 1973 season Martinez hit .255 with 1 HR, 11 doubles & 14 RBIs in 263 at bats.

Jerry Koosman pitched the complete game shutout allowing seven hits, with three walks & four strikeouts. After a slow start it was Koosman's fourth win in a row, his 12th of the year, putting his ERA at 2.93.