In his first start since undergoing arthroscopic surgery on his right knee on May 28, Hideki Irabu continued his slide yesterday in the Mets’ 4-3 victory in game two of the doubleheader at Shea.

In six innings, the former Yankee allowed five hits, four runs (three earned) and one walk while striking out two. He allowed a fifth-inning home run to Lenny Harris.

The 6-foot-4, 240-pounder, who last season was called “a fat toad”by George Steinbrenner, saw his record dip to 2-5 with an ERA of 7.24. As a Yankee he was 29-20.

Recently, Irabu split with his translator following a disagreement. So after yesterday’s game, North American reporters were forced to ask the extensive contingent of Japanese reporters for his post-game comments.

“It was fun to be up on the mound today,” Irabu said. “I feel I can get better and better.”

Expos manager Felipe Alou was pleased with his pitcher’s return outing.”Irabu threw well,” Alou said. “He looked healthy. He did good enough to win.