James Shields threw seven strong innings to remain unbeaten and Will Middlebrooks drove in three runs as the San Diego Padres won a home series for the first time in a month with a 7-3 victory over the New York Mets on Wednesday night.
Shields (7-0) cruised through five innings, permitting just one runner to reach second base. The right-hander allowed two runs and six hits overall. He struck out four, walked two and used three double plays to avoid major damage.
Shields set his personal best for consecutive wins to start the season. He began 6-0 with Tampa Bay in 2006.
The Mets were hurt by three errors -- two by third baseman Ruben Tejada -- that led to three unearned runs. Dillon Gee, just off the disabled list, also hit a batter with a pitch with the bases loaded.
