Must Win!? Cincinnati Reds at Pittsburgh Pirates LIVE MLB Pregame Chatterbox Reds | August 8, 2025
Chatterbox Reds Pregame Show | Cincinnati Reds at Pittsburgh Pirates | August 8, 2025.
Mike Hart and Ricky Logan preview tonights matchup of the Cincinnati Reds and Pittsburgh Pirates. Make sure to tune in LIVE in the 9th inning for the Chatterbox Reds Postgame Show, as we breakdown all the key moments in tonight’s matchup.
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Tonight, the Cincinnati Reds (60-56, third in NL Central) face the Pittsburgh Pirates (50-66, fifth in NL Central) at PNC Park for the second game of a four-game series, with first pitch at 6:40 PM EDT. After a decisive 7-0 Pirates victory last night, this matchup promises intensity as the Reds aim to rebound and the Pirates look to build momentum during their “Bucco Luau Weekend.” The game will be broadcast live on Apple TV+ as part of Friday Night Baseball.
The Reds, coming off a shutout loss, struggled against Pirates ace Paul Skenes, who struck out eight over six scoreless innings while allowing a career-high seven hits. Cincinnati went 0-for-5 with runners in scoring position, leaving six on base. Despite the offensive woes, the Reds showed fight with Matt McLain and Elly De La Cruz sparking the lineup. Tonight, they turn to rookie right-hander Chase Burns (0-3, 6.04 ERA) to keep the game close. Burns has been inconsistent, but his high-velocity fastball and sharp slider could challenge a Pirates offense that ranks among the league’s worst, with a .215 batting average and .585 OPS in July. The Reds’ lineup, featuring speedsters like De La Cruz and TJ Friedl, may look to exploit Pirates catcher Henry Davis, who has thrown out less than 20% of base stealers.
The Pirates, meanwhile, are riding high after Skenes’ dominance and home runs from Bryan Reynolds and Henry Davis. Pittsburgh’s offense exploded for 18 runs in the first inning over their last seven games, showcasing early-game aggression. Tonight, they send right-hander Mitch Keller (5-10, 3.89 ERA) to the mound. Keller, a reliable arm, offers control and durability, though his win-loss record reflects the Pirates’ offensive struggles. Pittsburgh’s pitching staff, one of the best in the NL, will look to stifle Cincinnati’s inconsistent bats, which have scored two or fewer runs in 38 games this season. The Pirates’ defense, while solid, recently traded their Gold Glove third baseman, potentially opening opportunities for Reds hitters.
Key matchups to watch include De La Cruz against Keller, as the Reds’ shortstop’s speed and power could disrupt Pittsburgh’s rhythm. On the Pirates’ side, Reynolds, fresh off a first-inning homer, aims to continue his hot streak. The Reds need to capitalize early to avoid another bullpen game, as starter Brady Singer’s early exit last night taxed their relief corps. Pittsburgh’s bullpen, with a clear closer hierarchy, holds an edge if the game stays tight.
PNC Park’s scenic backdrop and a festive crowd should amplify the atmosphere. Weather forecasts suggest clear skies, ideal for baseball. With the Reds chasing a Wild Card spot and the Pirates playing spoiler, expect a competitive clash. Can Burns deliver a breakout performance, or will Keller and the Pirates’ bats keep Cincinnati quiet again? Tune in to find out.