Oliver Perez struggles as New York Mets beat Atlanta Braves 7-6

Oliver Perez struggles in Mets win

PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. — Oliver Perez was pulled after walking consecutive batters in the fifth inning, part of a shaky outing in the New York Mets’ 7-6 victory over the Atlanta Braves on Tuesday.

Perez allowed three runs and five hits in 4 1-3 innings. The erratic left-hander struggled with his command at times, walking four batters.

New York is counting on Perez to bounce back this season after struggling last year.

Tommy Hanson pitched five innings for the Braves, yielding two runs and four hits. The 23-year-old right-hander struck out five and walked three while throwing 91 pitches in his fourth spring start.

Former Braves star Jeff Francoeur hit a solo homer for New York.