Five starts in, he has a 3.16 ERA and a 1.36 WHIP. His outing Sunday in the Mets’ 7-4 win over the Cardinals was his best yet: six innings, one run. He allowed four hits, walked two and struck out six.

NEW YORK — If there was a series meant to showcase the trials and tribulations of a development-focused season, the St. Louis Cardinals’ four-game set against the New York Mets at Citi Field certainly did the trick.

David Stearns’ offseason continues to look better and better. After putting together a widely questioned pitching staff, the Mets have seen nothing but strong performances from their