NEW YORK -- Maybe Joey Lucchesi just needed the big stage.
Last week, the rookie left-hander made his first career Triple-A start. After missing time in May and June with a right hip strain, the Padres wanted Lucchesi to keep his rhythm during the All-Star break. He was lit up in Albuquerque to the tune of seven runs over 2 2/3 innings.
Five days later, he beat Jacob deGrom in New York City.
Lucchesi was sharp over 5 1/3 innings on Monday night, and the Padres manufactured just enough offense for a 3-2 victory over the Mets at Citi Field.