Pirates Win Third Straight Game With Barco's MLB Debut Victory Over Reds

The Pittsburgh Pirates secured a 4-2 victory over the Cincinnati Reds, fueled by a four-run second inning highlighted by Oneil Cruz's 20th home run of the season, his first since August. Rookie left-hander Hunter Barco made his major-league debut, pitching a scoreless sixth inning and earning his first career win by escaping a bases-loaded situation. The Pirates' offense featured key hits from Jack Suwinski, Nick Yorke, and Alexander Canario, while Johan Oviedo delivered a solid start with 4 2/3 innings pitched. Despite the Reds' Elly De La Cruz hitting a two-run homer to cut the deficit, the Reds struggled offensively, grounding into three straight double plays late in the game. This win marked the Pirates' third consecutive victory and snapped Cincinnati's season-high five-game winning streak. Barco's performance and Cruz's milestone highlighted a positive night for the Pirates as they continue their final road trip of the 2025 season.