The Pittsburgh Pirates triumphed over the Cincinnati Reds with a score of 4–2, under the blazing sun at Great American Ball Park. This victory improved the Pirates’ record to 67-89, keeping them in 5th place in the NL Central, while the Reds fell to 80-76, sitting at 3rd place in the same division.
On a scorching day with temperatures hitting 100 degrees, the Pirates managed to take control of the game early on. The Reds, playing on their home turf, could not rally enough offense to surpass the Pirates’ lead.
Key Performances
Oneil Cruz was instrumental in the Pirates’ win, contributing significantly with his bat. Cruz managed a crucial home run, bringing in two runs and ending the game with a batting average of .203.
For the Reds, Elly De La Cruz tried to mount a resistance, collecting three hits and driving in both of the team’s runs with a home run. Despite his efforts, the Reds couldn’t manage to score beyond the second inning.
The Pirates’ pitching staff displayed solid performances, with Hunter Barco picking up the win. Barco pitched effectively over his one inning of relief, allowing only two hits and no earned runs.
Innings Breakdown
Both teams started the game scoreless in the first inning, but the Pirates broke through in the second. Scoring all four of their runs in this frame, they set the tone for the rest of the game.
The Reds managed to respond in their half of the second inning, scoring two runs, but that was all the offense they could muster. For the rest of the game, both teams remained scoreless, and the Reds couldn’t catch up.
Pitching Overview
Johan Oviedo of the Pirates had a notable start, lasting 4.67 innings while striking out seven and giving up only two runs. His performance was backed by the bullpen, which held the Reds at bay for the remainder of the game.
Brady Singer of the Reds was tagged with the loss, pitching 5.33 innings and conceding all four of the Pirates’ runs. Despite a rough second inning, he managed to strike out three and keep the Pirates silent for the rest of his outing.
Pittsburgh’s bullpen was immaculate, with Duane Underwood Jr., Jose Hernandez, and David Bednar coming through with crucial relief appearances. The trio combined for four scoreless innings, securing the Pirates’ win.
The Reds’ bullpen was also strong after Singer left the game. Connor Phillips, Graham Ashcraft, and Scott Barlow combined for 3.67 innings of shutout ball, but the damage had already been done.
Looking Ahead
The Pirates hope to carry this momentum into their next games against the Reds, scheduled for September 24th and 25th, again at Great American Ball Park. With two more games in this series, they aim to finish their season on a high note.
The Reds, looking to maintain their position in the division, will seek to bounce back in the upcoming games. Manager Terry Francona will need to rally his team to stay competitive as the season winds down.
Overall, the Pirates showcased a strong performance on both sides of the ball, while the Reds will have to regroup and strategize if they hope to reclaim victory in the rest of the series.
