The Pittsburgh Pirates faced a tough defeat against the Cincinnati Reds, losing 4-0 in a game marked by dominant pitching and missed opportunities.
Hunter Greene’s stellar performance on the mound was a key factor, as the Pirates’ offense continued to struggle.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the game and its implications for the Pirates moving forward.
Hunter Greene’s Dominance on the Mound
Hunter Greene showcased why he is considered one of the top arms in the National League.
Greene pitched seven scoreless innings, allowing only two hits and a walk while striking out eight.
His ability to overpower hitters with his four-seam fastball and keep them off balance with his slider was on full display.
Greene’s Pitching Arsenal
Greene’s dominance was evident as he retired the final 17 batters he faced.
“He was landing the upper-quadrant today with the fastball,” noted shortstop Isiah Kiner-Falefa. “He was dotting everything up in the zone and was able to throw the offspeed off of that pitch.”
Greene’s fastball, reaching speeds of 100 mph, made it difficult for the Pirates to mount any significant offense.
Find the best accommodations
Check availability at 5* hotels, guest houses and apartments rated "superb" or "exceptional" by visitors just like you.
NO RESERVATION FEES
CHECK AVAILABILITY FOR YOUR DATES HERE
Missed Opportunities for the Pirates
The Pirates had early chances to score but failed to capitalize.
In the first inning, Bryan Reynolds doubled to right-center, followed by a walk from Oneil Cruz. With two runners in scoring position, Alexander Canario lined out to short, ending the threat.
Another opportunity arose in the second inning when Kiner-Falefa hit a one-out triple, but once again, the Pirates failed to bring the run home.
Offensive Struggles Continue
The Pirates’ offense has been lackluster this season, ranking last in batting average (.184), slugging percentage (.290), and OPS (.563). Only the Boston Red Sox and Colorado Rockies have struck out more than the Pirates.
Manager Derek Shelton emphasized the importance of capitalizing on opportunities, stating, “We can’t let opportunities be squandered. We have to capitalize on opportunities when we do have them.”
Carmen Mlodzinski’s Performance
Carmen Mlodzinski, a proven big-league reliever, struggled in his transition to a starter.
He pitched well the first time through the lineup but faltered in the second and third times through. In the third inning, he gave up two runs, and in the fifth, he allowed two more, leading to his early exit.
Challenges as a Starter
Mlodzinski’s numbers indicate he is more effective as a reliever.
In 27 first-time plate appearances, he allowed just five hits and three walks while striking out five. However, the second time through the lineup, he surrendered six runs on ten hits and two walks.
Mlodzinski acknowledged the challenge, stating, “The second time through and the third time through is something I’m still working with.”
Defensive Miscues
Defensive errors have also plagued the Pirates.
In the fifth inning, with runners on the corners and no outs, first baseman Endy Rodriguez made a costly mistake. Instead of throwing home, he attempted a double play, allowing a run to score.
Manager Derek Shelton criticized the decision, emphasizing the importance of throwing to the plate in such situations.
Need for Improvement
Kiner-Falefa highlighted the team’s struggles, stating, “A lot of guys are doing new things for the first time, out of position. But it’s what we’ve got. We’ve got to figure out a way to win games and to gain experience on the fly.”
The Pirates need to improve both offensively and defensively to turn their season around.
Looking Ahead
The Pirates have a long season ahead, and there is still time to address their issues.
Improving their offensive output and minimizing defensive mistakes will be crucial.
As the team continues to adjust and gain experience, they will need to capitalize on opportunities and execute better in key situations.
Conclusion
The Pirates’ loss to the Reds highlighted their ongoing struggles. Hunter Greene’s dominant pitching performance and the Pirates’ missed opportunities were key factors in the game.
As the season progresses, the Pirates will need to make significant improvements to compete in the National League Central.
For a detailed recap of the game, visit the Post-Gazette.
- Schools Covered
- College Football Articles
- Men's College Basketball Articles
- Men's College Soccer Articles
- Women's College Basketball Articles
- Olympic Athlete Articles
- Men's College Baseball Articles
- College Sports Media Professionals Articles
- Hall of Fame Member Articles
- Former College Player Articles
- Game Previews