The Cincinnati Reds topped the Pittsburgh Pirates 3-1 yesterday in Cincinnati.
Graham Ashcraft overcame Brian Reynolds’ home run to last seven innings, allowing four hits and one run with a walk and six strikeouts against the Pirates, as the Reds bounced back from their Opening Day loss to take the first series.
Vince Velasquez, making his Pirates debut after signing in December as a free agent, lasted 4-2/3 innings, giving up five hits and three runs with one walk and three strikeouts. The temperature was 49 degrees at game time, Velasqiuez said he trouble gripping the ball at times, but he didn’t want to use that as an excuse.
The Pirates are now 1-2 on the season and will next open a 3-game series at Fenway Park against the Boston Red Sox tonight.