Another year, another season-opening sweep for the Cincinnati Reds. Two dramatic late-inning wins and a slugfest capstone were the story of the series, as the Reds decided to take it to the other Pennsylvania team this time around. Pitching prospect Robert Stephenson got roughed up a bit yesterday, but pitched well enough to preserve the win and then be promptly sent back down to the farm.
The Pirates come into town tonight coming off a sweep of their own, having outplayed the Cardinals in every way over the three games. With the Cubs also without a loss, three of the five remaining undefeated teams reside in the NL Central, and all three are 3 games ahead of the Cardinals.