The Cincinnati Reds currently hold a 38-42 record after opening their road series in Pittsburgh with a victory. The club snapped a five-game divisional losing streak Friday night by defeating the Pirates at PNC Park.
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MLB Game Recap
The Reds beat the Pirates 6-4. They used a four-run second inning to chase Cy Young winner Paul Skenes. A tiebreaking home run in the eighth secured the win. Starter Andrew Abbott allowed four runs (three earned) and six hits over 5.1 innings while surrendering three solo homers. The bullpen provided 3.2 innings of one-hit relief, with Tejay Antone, Brock Burke, Pierce Johnson, and Caleb Ferguson combining to seal the win.
Standout Performer
Noelvi Marte: 1-for-1, 1 HR, 2 RBI, 1 R. Marte entered as a pinch-hitter in the eighth inning. He launched a go-ahead 405-foot two-run home run to left-center field. This happened on the sixth pitch of his at-bat. The blast broke a 4-4 tie and secured the victory, marking Marte’s fourth home run of the season.
Key News & Notes
The Reds placed reliever Tony Santillan on the 15-day IL with a significant oblique strain. Manager Terry Francona said he will be out “a while”. Outfielder Blake Dunn also exited Friday’s game with right elbow discomfort and is scheduled for an MRI on Saturday. In more positive news, Nick Lodolo’s X-rays were negative. He took a comebacker to the wrist. He is expected to make his next start on Monday. Additionally, the team recalled pitcher Zach McCambley from Triple-A.
Farm Report
- Louisville Bats (AAA): Lost 3-1. Emilio Pagan (rehab): 1.0 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 0 K. Pagan threw just six pitches to retire three batters in his first rehab appearance.
- Chattanooga Lookouts (AA): Lost 12-7 (10). Julio Carreras: 2-2, 2 R, 2 RBI, 2 BB, 2B. Carreras reached base in every plate appearance despite the extra-inning loss.
- Dayton Dragons (High-A): Postponed. Friday’s game was rained out, and a doubleheader is scheduled for Saturday.
- Daytona Tortugas (Low-A): Won 5-3. Deivi Villafana: 5.2 IP, 5 H, 1 ER, 1 BB, 8 K. Villafana set a career high in strikeouts to lead the Tortugas to victory.
- ACL Reds (Rookie): Won 6-3. Esmith Pineda: 1-3, HR, 2 RBI, 2 R. Pineda homered while on rehab to help spark the ACL squad’s win.
Looking Ahead
The Reds continue their series against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Saturday afternoon. Probable Pitcher: Chase Burns (9-1, 2.00 ERA) vs. Jared Jones (1-1, 5.75 ERA).
Tagging Paul Skenes for four runs makes a massive statement. It is a win for a team fighting to stay relevant in the NL Central. What do you think?
