Cincinnati, OH (Sports Network) - Daniel Murphy smashed a three-run homer and Jonathan Niese held the Reds in check over seven innings, as the New York Mets dealt a blow to Cincinnati's division title hopes with a 4-2 victory Tuesday.

Murphy had two hits, as did Eric Young and David Wright, and Wilfredo Tovar knocked in a run for New York, which beat the Reds for the first time in five tries this season.

The Reds were unable to capitalize off Niese (8-8), who allowed just a pair of runs to score despite scattering eight hits and a walk.

Devin Mesoraco knocked in a run in the setback for Cincinnati, which has just four games to play and will fall three back of the NL Central-leading Cardinals if they defeat Washington on Tuesday.

Mike Leake (14-7) managed to get only five outs, with his 21 1/3-inning scoreless streak ending in the second inning. He was charged with all of New York's runs and eight of its 10 hits.