We understand the risks associated with backing the Pirates, even with Paul Skenes on the mound. Still, Skenes remains dominant, especially at PNC Park, where he's posted a 1.87 ERA in ten starts, and throwing out last Saturday's start in Denver, Skenes has an 0.67 ERA since the start of July. That can be enough to overlook Pittsburgh's offensive shortcomings. Meanwhile, though still in the NL wild card race, not sure about trusting the Reds, who lost recent series vs. the lowly Braves and Nats, while Brady Singer's road numbers (including a 5.73 ERA) simply haven't been consistent enough this season. Play Pirates on the Run Line.
I will touch on Paul Skenes in the Thursday newsletter but long story short: He has utterly dominated the Reds in his brief career. And I mean utterly. But here's what probably happens the way things are going: Skenes throws five innings of one-hit ball and leaves with a 2-0 lead ... only for the bullpen to give up a three-run jack in the ninth and lose 3-2. We shall risk it. Reds pitcher Brady Singer has a 5.73 road ERA. First 5 is probably fine too but this is cheaper. I slightly worry about a 0-0 score through five with that iffy Pittsburgh offense, but I guess you could say that through nine too. Obviously listed pitchers.
The Reds outrighted Johnson to Triple-A Louisville on Thursday, Charlie Goldsmith of Fox 19 Now Cincinnati reports.
Jones did not factor into the decision in Sunday's 4-2 win over the Tigers, allowing one hit and no walks while striking out five over four scoreless innings.
Williamson (5-5) took the loss Sunday against Toronto, striking out three while allowing four runs on four hits and three walks in three innings.
Griffin went 2-for-4 with a home run and two RBI in Sunday's 4-2 win over the Tigers.
Montgomery earned the save in Sunday's 4-2 win over the Tigers, striking out two in a perfect ninth inning.
The Pirates optioned Sisk to Triple-A Indianapolis on Sunday, Kevin Gorman of TribLive.com reports.
Lowe is not in the lineup for Sunday's game versus the Tigers.
The Pirates recalled Murdock from Triple-A Indianapolis on Sunday, Kevin Gorman of TribLive.com reports.
Cruz (knee) is absent from the lineup for Sunday's game versus the Tigers.
Yates announced his retirement from Major League Baseball following Saturday's 4-3 loss to the Tigers.
