The Cincinnati Reds and Pittsburgh Pirates open a key NL Central series Friday night at PNC Park, with two early-season contenders meeting while separated by only a few games in the standings.

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How to Watch Reds vs Pirates

• Date: Friday, May 1, 2026

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Cincinnati enters the matchup on a strong run at 20-11 after beating Colorado 6-4 on Thursday, securing its best start since 2006.

The Reds have gotten production throughout the lineup, with young infielder Sal Stewart emerging as an early breakout bat while stars like Elly De La Cruz continue to create pressure with speed and power. Cincinnati has also been solid on the road at 5-2, giving them confidence entering a divisional test.

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Pittsburgh sits at 16-16 and turns to ace-level right-hander Mitch Keller, who is listed as the probable starter opposite Cincinnati’s Brady Singer. Keller has opened the year with a 3.18 ERA, and the Pirates will look for their lineup, led by Oneil Cruz and veteran run producers, to capitalize at home.

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With both clubs viewing this as a realistic year to compete, this series already carries the feel of an important May measuring-stick matchup.

This is a great MLB matchup that you will not want to miss; make sure to tune in and catch all the action.

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