Mets’ deGrom fans first eight

NEW YORK – Mets pitcher Jacob deGrom tied a major league record by striking out his first eight batters on Monday night.

The rookie whiffed eight consecutive Miami Marlins to begin the game, matching the mark set by Jim Deshaies of the Houston Astros against the Los Angeles Dodgers on Sept. 23, 1986.

A top contender for N.L. Rookie of the Year, deGrom tied the record by freezing Jeff Mathis with a 95 mph fastball for a called third strike. The shaggy-haired righty then gave up a sharp single to opposing pitcher Jarred Cosart on a 1-0 pitch.

Associated Press