Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Cincinnati Reds: Preview, Predictions and Picks for September 21, 2024

Published on:
Sep 21, 2024 6:10 AM
The Cincinnati Reds, holding a 1-0 series lead, look to build on their momentum as they host the Pittsburgh Pirates at Great American Ball Park on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at 1:10 PM. The Reds aim to capitalize on their home advantage, where they stand 38-41, against a Pirates team that has struggled on the road with a 34-42 record. This National League Central divisional matchup promises to be an exciting clash in the MLB.
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Optimal Staff
Pittsburgh Pirates
Cincinnati Reds

Pirates vs Reds starting pitchers

  • Rhett Lowder for Cincinnati Reds
  • Jared Jones for Pittsburgh Pirates

Pirates vs Reds statistics

Stat Pirates Reds
Hits 1232 (21st) 1192 (26th)
Batting Average .236 (23rd) .233 (26th)
Runs Batted In 617 (20th) 652 (14th)
Runs 639 (22nd) 686 (Tied-14th)
Home Runs 148 (26th) 172 (Tied-16th)
Walks 457 (18th) 479 (10th)
Stolen Bases 103 (16th) 204 (2nd)
Strikeouts 1426 (5th) 1409 (7th)
Pitches 22534 (17th) 22319 (19th)

Cincinnati Reds recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
9/20/24 vs Pittsburgh Pirates W 8-3
9/19/24 vs Atlanta Braves L 15-3
9/18/24 vs Atlanta Braves L 7-1
9/17/24 vs Atlanta Braves W 6-5
9/15/24 @ Minnesota Twins L 9-2

Pittsburgh Pirates recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
9/20/24 @ Cincinnati Reds L 8-3
9/19/24 @ St. Louis Cardinals W 3-2
9/18/24 @ St. Louis Cardinals L 10-5
9/17/24 @ St. Louis Cardinals L 3-1
9/16/24 @ St. Louis Cardinals L 4-0

Pirates vs Reds predictions

With the Pirates gearing up to face the Reds, all eyes are on Oneil Cruz, who seems poised to make a substantial impact. Cruz's ability to mix power with speed could be a game-changer, especially when he has been getting on base and driving in runs with a flair for the dramatic. Additionally, Joey Bart has been showing promising signs of heating up at the plate, and his performance could significantly bolster the Pirates' offense. On the mound, Jared Jones will be crucial; his knack for strikeouts could help contain the Reds' hitters, making him a pivotal figure for this matchup.

For the Cincinnati Reds, it's a young roster brimming with potential ready to take center stage. Elly De La Cruz has been nothing short of electrifying this season, bringing an exceptional combination of power and agility to the table, which could see him making substantial contributions. Ty France is another player to watch, as his consistent hitting often provides the stability the Reds' lineup needs. On the pitching side, Rhett Lowder's impressive ERA suggests he could be a formidable obstacle for the Pirates, promising a tight game from the mound.

Considering the dynamics at play, this game is shaping up to be a tightly contested affair. The Reds have the home-field advantage and a pitcher who's been difficult to score against, setting the stage for a potential series-tying victory if their offense clicks as anticipated. However, the Pirates are not a team to be underestimated, especially with their key players finding form at the right time. It might be a close call, but I’m leaning toward the Cincinnati Reds clinching this one, leveraging their pitching strength and vibrant young hitters to carry the day.

Cincinnati Reds injuries

  • Nick Martini (RF): 60-Day-IL
  • Hunter Greene (SP): 15-Day-IL
  • Ian Gibaut (RP): 60-Day-IL
  • Sam Moll (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Austin Wynns (C): 60-Day-IL

Pittsburgh Pirates injuries

  • Daulton Jefferies (RP): 60-Day-IL
  • Ke'Bryan Hayes (3B): 10-Day-IL
  • Henry Davis (C): 10-Day-IL
  • Kyle Nicolas (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Ben Heller (RP): 60-Day-IL

Pirates vs Reds game info

Venue Great American Ball Park
Location Cincinnati, Ohio
First pitch Sat 1:10 PM
Temperature 84°
Chance of Rain 36%

Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Cincinnati Reds Betting Odds

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