Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Cincinnati Reds – September 21, 2024

The Cincinnati Reds opened their 3-game series against the Pittsburgh Pirates with a win last night. They're looking to pick up another win this afternoon – one that would guarantee them a series sweep in the final home series of the season. First pitch is scheduled for 1:10 p.m. ET today.

Starting line-up

Starting pitchers

Rhett Lowder

In his last start, Rhett Lowder had his worst start in the major leagues. It was still a good start, however, as he allowed three runs in 5.1 innings against Minnesota. His ERA rose to 1.74 in that game after four appearances.

The sample size is still extremely small, but the splits against Lowder in the big leagues were interesting. Eight of his nine walks went to left-handers. Right-handers had almost twice as many hits. Neither group hit him with the slightest bit of power.

Divisions

Pitch usage

Jared Jones

Jones was doing well until June, but after his first start in July he landed on the injured list and missed seven weeks. In the four starts since his return, he posted a 5.06 ERA in 21.1 innings and allowed four home runs.

Jones has faced left-handed and right-handed hitters exactly the same amount this season. The differences aren't huge, but right-handed hitters are hitting a little better and making more contact. The bigger differences are the home and away numbers, where his ERA is 5.40 away (2.87 at home) and hitters have an OPS of .767 against him (.683 at home).

Divisions

Pitch usage

When and where

• Playing time: 1:10 p.m. ET
• Where: Big American ballpark
• Regard: Bally Sports Ohio, MLB.tv
• Hear: 700 WLW AM (Cincinnati area)
• Forecast: 30°, partly cloudy, 5% chance of rain

News and information

Elly De La Cruz and the record books

Last night, Elly De La Cruz etched his name in the record books, both for the Reds and for all of Major League Baseball. In case you missed it, we've got the details for you here.

Division table