The Pittsburgh Pirates, with a season record of 72-82, faced off against the Cincinnati Reds, standing at 75-80, in a game that ended in an 8-3 victory for the Reds. The match unfolded at the Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati, marking another chapter in this storied rivalry.

Sep 20, 2024; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz (44) throws to first to get Pittsburgh Pirates designated hitter Andrew McCutchen (not pictured) out in the second inning at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

Pirates' Performance Highlights

The Pirates showcased resilience throughout the game, managing to secure nine hits and three runs against the formidable Reds. Despite their efforts, it was not enough to overcome their opponents. The team's hitting statistics were notable; they achieved a batting average of .265 and an on-base percentage (OBP) of .286. Their slugging percentage stood at .382 with two extra-base hits contributing to their total bases count of 13.

Oneil Cruz emerged as a standout player for the Pirates, boasting an impressive batting average of .500 along with a home run that significantly contributed to his slugging percentage of 1.25 and on-base plus slugging (OPS) of 1.75. Ryan Tellez also made significant contributions with an RBI and a batting average of .500, highlighting his crucial role in driving runs for his team.

Sep 20, 2024; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates starting pitcher Mitch Keller (23) pitches against the Cincinnati Reds in the first inning at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

Reds' Counterattack

On the other side, the Reds capitalized on their opportunities by amassing eight hits and eight runs throughout the game. Their aggressive approach was evident from the start as they scored one run in the first inning followed by four runs in both third and fourth innings each.

The pitching staff from both teams had moments worth mentioning; however, it was ultimately Pittsburgh's bullpen that managed to hold off further damage from being inflicted by Cincinnati's lineup towards later innings.

Sep 20, 2024; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Reds outfielder TJ Friedl (29) reacts after striking out in the second inning against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

Looking Ahead

Fans are eagerly anticipating what promises to be an exciting rematch between these two teams as they prepare for another showdown scheduled on September 21st at Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati. This upcoming game will be broadcasted live on SportsNet PT at 1:10 PM EDT.

As both teams gear up for this encounter, fans can expect another intense battle filled with strategic plays and standout performances from key players aiming to lead their respective teams to victory.

Pirates - Baseball - Recap

Pirates Navigate Through Reds' Defense for a Close Encounter at Great American Ball Park

Pirates Edge Cardinals in Tight 2-1 Victory, Securing Series Opener at Busch Stadium

Pirates' Offensive Surge Not Enough in 10-5 Defeat to Cardinals

Pirates Stumble in St. Louis, Cardinals Clinch 3-1 Victory at Busch Stadium

Pirates Edge Royals in a Nail-Biter: Who Was the Game-Changer?

Pirates' Hopes Dashed by Royals in a 5-1 Setback at PNC Park

Can Pirates' Late Surge Overturn Royals' Early Dominance?

Pirates Dominate Marlins 3-1: Early Lead Secures Victory at PNC Park

Pirates Outplay Marlins 6-4, McCutchen's Homerun Seals the Deal

Pirates Edge Marlins 3-2: Pittsburgh's Pitching Dominance Prevails

Pirates Dominate Nationals with a 7-3 Victory, Showcasing Power at PNC Park

Pirates' Late Rally Falls Short Against Nationals in 8-6 Defeat

Pirates Overcome Nationals 6-3, Rallying in the Second at PNC Park

Pirates Outplay Cubs with Strategic Hits and Stellar Pitching at Wrigley Field

Pirates Overcome Cubs in Late Rally at Wrigley Field

Pirates' Offensive Firepower Unleashed in High-Scoring Battle with Cubs at PNC Park

Pirates' Late Inning Rally Falls Short in High-Scoring Battle with Cubs at PNC Park

Pirates' Late Surge Not Enough to Overcome Cubs' Offensive Onslaught at PNC Park

Pirates Outlast Reds in a Nail-Biter at PNC Park, Clinching a 4-3 Victory

Pirates Outplayed by Reds in High-Scoring Game: A 10-2 Defeat at PNC Park

Can Pirates' Rally in the Fifth Overturn Reds' Early Lead?