Pirates to continue clubbing Reds?
Clint Hurdle’s Pirates won’t stop pounding the baseball. Reds manager Bryan Price, on the other hand, covets just a little of that offensive prowess.
The two National League Central rivals meet again today in the middle contest of a three-game set, with a 7:05 p.m. ET first pitch at PNC Park. Handicappers at online sports book BetDSI have installed the home team as a 1.5-run favorite. As for the over/under figure, that stands at eight runs.
Pittsburgh (14-9) continued its recent tear last night, handing Cincinnati a 4-1 loss. Josh Harrison and Matt Joyce went yard, while the pitching staff surrendered just six hits. The Buccos are averaging 12.6 hits and eight runs during their six-game winning streak.
Cincy, which has dropped 13 of 17, desperately needs a lift from hurler Alfredo Simon (0-2, 16.39 ERA). The righty got absolutely torched by the Cubs last weekend, but he boasts a 3-1 record with a 2.57 ERA in four starts in the Steel City.
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Unfortunately, Simon can’t do much about a lineup that has produced more than three runs only once in its last eight contests. Shortstop Zack Cosart is the lone regular with a plus.-.290 batting average. Perennial All-Star Joey Votto boasts a .330 on-base percentage, but the power numbers (two homers and 11 RBIs) remain woefully behind.
Francisco Liriano (1-1, 4.64) undoubtedly accepts this assignment with glee. The Reds (9-14) present the perfect group against which to correct numerous control issues. (Liriano has issued 17 free passes through four starts). Look for Pittsburgh to launch the lumber early and often.
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