NL Central rivals are set to clash once more on Saturday evening. At 6:40 p.m. EST, the Cincinnati Reds (62-66; 31-32 away) will face off against the Pittsburgh Pirates (60-67; 30-32 home) at PNC Park. Currently, the season series leans in favor of Pittsburgh with a 5-2 record. Can the Pirates secure another victory on their home turf, or will the Reds fight back to level the score?
Cincinnati’s Struggles Continue
Despite their speed on the bases, the Reds have found themselves struggling to convert opportunities into victories. Their most recent defeat marked the fifth loss in a challenging seven-game stretch. Cincinnati aims to rebound and shake off the disappointment of being shut out in the series opener.
On average, they score 4.42 runs per game, ranking 14th among MLB teams. They excel in stolen bases with 173, achieving an impressive 83% success rate, placing them fourth in the league. Additionally, they rank 10th in home runs, contributing to their 14th place in slugging percentage. However, their batting average sits at 28th, along with a 25th rank in on-base percentage (OBP) and strikeout rate. The Reds often find themselves in tough spots when half of their outs occur without making contact. Can they turn things around this time?
Historically, Cincinnati has performed better on the road, holding a 3.79 ERA in away games. They will look to maintain this trend on Saturday, though their starting lineup remains uncertain due to injuries to All-Star Hunter Greene and lefty Andrew Abbott. The initial innings of the game are shrouded in mystery, but Cincinnati’s bullpen has been a bright spot, ranking third in WAR, sixth in ERA, and sixth in FIP. Reds relievers also boast a fifth-best left-on-base percentage. Will they step up and support their team?
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Pittsburgh Aiming to Regain Momentum
The Pirates began the season strong, driven by impressive young pitchers, but have since slipped to the bottom of the NL Central. Saturday presents another opportunity to climb back, with Jake Woodford taking the mound. Since joining the Pirates, Woodford has struggled, allowing 18 hits and 15 runs (10 earned) over 18.2 innings. His record in Pittsburgh reflects an unfortunate pattern, as all his appearances have resulted in losses. The bullpen’s performance has been less than stellar, ranking 24th in ERA. Can Woodford and the relievers turn the tide and secure his first win with the team?
Thursday’s seven-run performance was an anomaly for the Pirates, who typically average 4.13 runs per game, placing them 13th in the majors. However, they rank 24th in batting average, 27th in OBP, 26th in slugging, and 26th in home runs. Their strikeout rate is concerning, sitting at 27th. While they rank 18th in stolen bases, they lead the league with an 85% success rate. The team’s walk percentage is also at 18th. Will they build on the momentum from game one of this series?
Best Bets for Cincinnati Reds vs. Pittsburgh Pirates
The Reds have faced challenges against the Pirates, particularly on the road this season, where they have struggled to score more than two runs at PNC Park. With Pittsburgh having a confirmed starting pitcher for Saturday, they may hold a distinct advantage in this matchup.
