The Pittsburgh Pirates are going streaking! After defeating the Cincinnati Reds today 2-0, to complete a four-game sweep, they are currently amid a seven-game winning streak. That streak has also put them at the top of the N.L. Central Division, with a half game lead over the Milwaukee Brewers.
There was not much scoring on the afternoon, but Pittsburgh scored what would be the winning run in the first inning when Ke’Bryan Hayes scored on an Andrew McCutchen groundout. The final run of the afternoon came in the eighth on a Jack Suwinski RBI double to right to score Carlos Santana.
Vince Velasquez was dealing today for the Pirates. He worked a strong seven innings, allowing only two hits to go with two walks and ten strikeouts. Colin Holderman kept the door closed in the eighth, giving up one hit and striking out one batter. The ninth inning saw David Bednar take the mound and earn his eighth save of the year. He would give up one hit and strikeout two batters.
Hunter Greene made the start for Cincinnati and was good as well. Greene pitched six innings, giving up one run on four hits with six strikeouts and two walks. Reiver Sanmartin collected only one out, via strikeout, in the seventh, while walking two batters. Fernando Cruz was tasked with covering the final 1.2 innings and he would allow one run on two hits with four strikeouts.
It may not be the end of April yet, but seeing the Buccos in first place is exciting. They will have an off day on Monday before starting a three-game series with the Los Angeles Dodgers on Tuesday at PNC Park. Los Angeles is just a game above .500, but they are not to be taken lightly. Bryan Reynolds was placed on the bereavement list today and Drew Maggi was recalled from AA Altoona to take his place on the roster.
Record vs. Reds: 5-2
Record vs. N.L. Central: 7-4
Record at Home: 7-3
Overall Record: 16-7
And…
As Always…
Let’s Go Bucs!
