MLB: Washington 5, New York Mets 1

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NEW YORK, Sept. 10 (UPI) -- Gio Gonzalez pitched six innings of one-run ball to earn his 19th victory Monday and Washington bashed three homers in its 5-1 win over the New York Mets.

Gonzalez (19-7) overcame five walks, allowing three hits while striking out six en route to becoming the major leagues' first pitcher to reach 19 wins.

The left-hander benefited from a pair of double plays turned behind him as the National League East-leading Nationals took the opener of a three-game series.

Kurt Suzuki socked a solo homer and Ryan Zimmerman added a two-run clout during a decisive third-inning outburst, and Ian Desmond provided a bases-empty homer in the next frame.

Collin McHugh (0-2) was tagged with the loss, surrendering five runs (two earned) on five hits in four frames.

Scott Hairston went deep for New York.