Stats/Matchup: After a successful albeit tumultuous weekend series against the Astros in which the Pirates were able to win 2 of 3 games, the Pirates return home to begin a stretch of games which will prove whether or not the Pirates are truly contenders for the NL Central division crown. Over the next 13 games the Pirates will play home series against NL Central foes Cincinnati and St. Louis while going on the road to play series' against Atlanta and Philadelphia. Those 4 teams are a combined 45 games above .500 and so far this season the Pirates are 9-5 in games against them. Tonight, the Pirates begin a 3 game series at home against the Reds. So far this season the Pirates are 5-1 against the Reds with all the games being played in Cincinnati. Taking the hill for the Pirates will be Charlie Morton who is 2-0 with a 0.78 ERA and 2 complete games in 2 starts against Cincy this season, while Dontrelle Willis will throw tonight for the Reds. Willis is making his 2nd start of the season after going 6 innings while giving up 2 ER in his season debut against the Brewers. Willis is 2-5 with a 3.74 ERA in his career against the Pirates.
What to look for: Willis throwing a ton of balls and walking batters, while Charlie gets back on track and throws more than 6 innings in a start since June 4.
Prediction: Buccos get to Willis and send him to the showers early, Pirates win 7-2.
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