What are the key stats to watch for?
The Pirates need to improve their stolen base record, while the Reds need to balance their strong ERA with a lower WHIP.
MLB / Divisional Preview
The Pittsburgh Pirates and Cincinnati Reds face off in a three-game series, marking their first divisional matchup of the season. Both teams are looking to gain momentum early in the season.
The Pirates' opening series against the Mets was a mixed bag, highlighting both offensive capabilities and defensive vulnerabilities. Paul Skenes' Opening Day start was cut short due to misplayed flyballs. However, the Pirates managed to secure a win in extra innings on Sunday. The Reds, after a shutout loss on Opening Day, bounced back with two consecutive wins against the Red Sox, both also in close games. The series presents an opportunity for both teams to establish themselves within the division early in the season.
**Key Matchups:** - **Game 1:** Braxton Ashcraft (PIT) vs. Chase Burns (CIN). Key Battle: Ashcraft vs Reds 3B Ke'Bryan Hayes. - **Game 2:** Bubba Chandler (PIT) vs. Brandon Williamson (CIN). Key Battle: Williamson vs Pirates OF Bryan Reynolds. - **Game 3:** Paul Skenes (PIT) vs. Andrew Abbott (CIN). Key Battle: Skenes vs Reds SS Elly De La Cruz.
The Pirates need to improve their stolen base record, while the Reds need to balance their strong ERA with a lower WHIP.
Keep an eye on Braxton Ashcraft and Brandon Lowe for the Pirates, and Sal Stewart and Andrew Abbott for the Reds.
Who do you think will win this series? Share your predictions below! Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!
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