What happened: Mathews held Pittsburgh to one run on five hits and a walk over 5 2/3 innings in a 4-1 victory. Jimmy Crooks, his longtime battery mate, struck in the third inning.
Why it matters: The milestone came in Mathews' fourth career start and his Busch Stadium debut. He has allowed two or fewer runs in three of those four outings.
By the numbers: Mathews threw 5 2/3 innings with seven strikeouts, five hits, one walk and one earned run, improving to 1-2.
What to watch: Mathews' next turn will test whether he can extend his three-start run of limiting opponents to two runs or fewer.