MLB Preview: Pirates in Cincinnati, Keller Starts
The Pittsburgh Pirates kick off a three-game series against the Cincinnati Reds on Tuesday, August 1, at Great American Ballpark. The Pirates, looking to build on their recent winning streak, will face a Reds team eager to snap out of a slump.
Pirates Seeking Momentum
Coming off a strong weekend series against the Chicago Cubs, the Pirates are riding a wave of momentum. Their pitching staff has been particularly impressive, with Mitch Keller leading the charge. Keller, slated to start Tuesday's game, has been dominant in his last few outings, showcasing improved command and a potent arsenal of pitches.
The Pirates' offense, while not as explosive as in the past, has shown signs of life, particularly with Bryan Reynolds and Oneil Cruz finding their groove. Their ability to consistently put runs on the board will be key to their success against the Reds.
Reds in Need of a Spark
The Reds have struggled in recent weeks, losing ground in the NL Central. Their pitching staff has been inconsistent, with Hunter Greene, their ace, currently on the injured list.
The Reds' offense has also been sluggish, failing to generate timely hits and leaving runners on base. They'll need to find a way to get their bats going and provide run support for their pitching staff if they want to get back into contention.
Key Matchup: Keller vs. Reds Offense
Keller will be looking to continue his dominant form against a Reds offense that has struggled to produce runs. The Reds' hitters have been susceptible to fastballs, which plays right into Keller's strengths. However, the Reds have a few hitters who can pose a threat to Keller, including Jonathan India, Spencer Steer, and Will Benson.
Prediction:
The Pirates have been playing good baseball lately, and their pitching staff has been a major strength. Keller should be able to keep the Reds' offense in check, while the Pirates' offense should be able to generate enough runs to secure a victory. Look for the Pirates to take game one of this series.
Don't miss this exciting series between the Pirates and Reds!
