Pirates vs Reds: Keller on the Mound in Cincinnati
The Pittsburgh Pirates will be looking to bounce back from a tough loss on Tuesday night as they face the Cincinnati Reds for the second game of their series at Great American Ball Park. The Reds took the first game 5-2, but the Pirates have a chance to even the series with Mitch Keller on the mound.
Keller's Recent Form
Keller has been one of the Pirates' most consistent starters this season. He enters Wednesday with a 3.92 ERA and 1.25 WHIP in 19 starts. He's also struck out 100 batters in 110 innings pitched, a testament to his ability to dominate opposing hitters. In his last start against the New York Mets, Keller pitched 6 innings and allowed just one run on four hits while striking out seven. He's certainly in a good spot to carry that momentum into this crucial series against a divisional rival.
Reds' Struggles at the Plate
The Reds have been struggling offensively lately, averaging just 3.5 runs per game over their last ten games. Their lack of production is a key reason they sit at the bottom of the National League Central. While they managed to capitalize on some Pirates' mistakes in game one, they'll need to find a way to consistently put runs on the board if they want to win this series.
The Matchup
The matchup on Wednesday is a fascinating one. Keller has a strong track record against the Reds, with a 3.18 ERA in 11 career starts against them. The Reds, however, will be looking to bounce back from a disappointing loss and will be hoping to capitalize on any weakness in Keller's arsenal.
Key Factors
1. Keller's Control: Keller's ability to command his pitches will be crucial. If he can limit walks and keep the Reds off balance, he'll be in good shape to put the Pirates in a position to win. 2. Reds' Offensive Approach: The Reds will need to be aggressive at the plate and make sure they're swinging at pitches they can handle. If they're passive, Keller will likely dominate them. 3. Pirates' Defense: The Pirates' defense has been a strength all season, and they'll need to continue to play well to support Keller. Any errors could give the Reds a chance to capitalize.
Conclusion
The Pirates vs. Reds game on Wednesday is shaping up to be a compelling matchup. Keller's strong pitching against a struggling Reds offense gives the Pirates a great chance to even the series. However, the Reds will be looking to rebound and make things interesting. With both teams fighting for a playoff spot, this game will be one to watch.
