Pirates Secure Comeback Victory Against Reds

PITTSBURGH: In a thrilling contest at PNC Park on Friday, Bryan Reynolds propelled the Pittsburgh Pirates to a 3-2 victory over the Cincinnati Reds with a clutch two-out triple in the eighth inning. The hit drove in both the tying and go-ahead runs.

Reynolds, who had a strong performance with two hits, one run, and two RBIs, delivered the decisive blow with a line drive into right field off Reds relief pitcher Tony Santillan. The hit allowed Isiah Kiner-Falefa and Tommy Pham to score, overcoming a 2-1 deficit.

This win marks the Pirates’ second consecutive triumph in the four-game series. For the Reds, it signifies their third straight defeat, further diminishing their playoff aspirations.

Kyle Nicolas was credited with the win, pitching a scoreless eighth inning and recording two strikeouts. Dennis Santana earned his seventh save of the season after a flawless ninth inning.

Reds’ starting pitcher Chase Burns had an outstanding outing, achieving a career-high 10 strikeouts over six innings while conceding just one run, but ultimately received no decision. Burns has reached double-digit strikeouts in four straight starts.

Tyler Stephenson’s RBI double in the sixth inning put the Reds ahead 2-1, driving in Gavin Lux, who had three hits in the game. Oneil Cruz had previously tied the score at 1 in the fourth with a double off Burns, bringing Reynolds home.

Pirates’ starter Mitch Keller pitched five and two-thirds innings, allowing two runs. Dauri Moreta ended the sixth by striking out the final batter, leaving a runner stranded.

The Reds now hold a 14-16 record in one-run games and have a 19-43 record at PNC Park since 2018.

Earlier in the day, Cincinnati made roster moves, optioning Yosver Zulueta to Triple-A and recalling Sam Benschoter.