Pirates, Reds Open Series in Cincinnati

CINCINNATI (Interstat) — The Pittsburgh Pirates and Cincinnati Reds open a three-game series at Great American Ball Park on Monday, each looking to build on extra-inning victories from Sunday.

First pitch is scheduled for 6:40 p.m. EDT under cloudy skies with a game-time temperature near 66 degrees.

The Pirates (1-2) arrive after a 4-3, 10-inning win over the New York Mets, powered by a strong relief outing from Carmen Mlodzinski (4.1 IP, 8 Ks) and a home run from Brandon Lowe. Pittsburgh will hand the ball to right-hander Braxton Ashcraft for the series opener.

Cincinnati (2-1) took its series from Boston with a 3-2 win Sunday behind starter Rhett Lowder (5.0 IP, 5 Ks) and a three-RBI day from Eugenio Suárez, including a home run. The Reds counter with right-hander Chase Burns.

A key matchup will feature the clubs’ bullpens. Mlodzinski, a player to watch for Pittsburgh, threw 73 pitches in his extended appearance Sunday, potentially limiting his availability. Cincinnati’s Lowder, also a standout from Sunday, is not expected to be available.

According to Interstat’s game simulator, the Reds are projected to win a high-scoring affair, 7-6. Cincinnati has been installed as a pregame favorite with a spread of -1.5. The over/under is set at 8 runs.

Following this series, the Pirates return home to face Baltimore and San Diego. The Reds embark on a seven-game road trip to Texas and Miami.