David Wright broke the New York Mets' record for hits and Jeremy Hefner bounced back from a horrendous start in a 6-0 victory over Pittsburgh on Wednesday night that eliminated the Pirates from playoff contention.

Alex Trautwig, Getty Images
Alex Trautwig, Getty Images
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Ruben Tejada tied a career high with four hits, including two RBI singles, and Scott Hairston doubled home a run as the Mets took advantage of some shoddy Pittsburgh defense to win for the fifth time in six games.

Jeff Locke (0-3), still searching for his first major league win after nine starts, was chased in the fourth inning. Pittsburgh fell eight games behind St. Louis in the race for the second NL wild card with seven to play.

The Pirates have dropped 19 of 25 and must go 5-2 the rest of the way to avoid a 20th straight losing season.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)

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