Jon Jay and Tony Cruz had an RBI apiece in the fourth and pinch hitter Yadier Molina added a pinch-hit RBI single in the eighth for the Cardinals, who have won 12 of 14 and handed the Mets their sixth straight loss.

WSJ: Cardinals get to Mets bullpen in 4-2 win

And, like a reliever who comes in with the bases loaded, a pinch hitter often replaces the pitcher when there is a chance to drive in a run.

WSJ: Mets' Mike Baxter a Natural At Coming Through in a Pinch

Washington appeared poised to break through at the plate when pinch-hitter Steve Lombardozzi singled leading off the eighth and Denard Span walked.

WSJ: Werth overanxious as Nationals lose to Mets 2-0