Pirates Defeat Reds 8-3 Behind Cruz's Hot Bat

Oneil Cruz homers again as Pittsburgh takes series from Cincinnati

Apr. 1, 2026 at 9:17pm

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The Pittsburgh Pirates defeated the Cincinnati Reds 8-3 on Wednesday, with Oneil Cruz hitting a three-run homer for his third long ball in two games. Pirates starter Paul Skenes pitched five strong innings, allowing just one run.

Why it matters

The Reds have struggled to find an answer for the power-hitting Cruz, who has emerged as one of the National League's most dangerous young sluggers. The loss is another setback for Cincinnati, which has been trying to rebuild and return to contention in the NL Central.

The details

Oneil Cruz continued his torrid pace at the plate, launching a three-run homer in the sixth inning to break open the game for the Pirates. Pittsburgh starter Paul Skenes turned in a solid outing, limiting the Reds to one run over five innings. The Pirates took two of three games in the series.

  • The game was played on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.

The players

Oneil Cruz

A power-hitting outfielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates who has emerged as one of the National League's top young sluggers.

Paul Skenes

The starting pitcher for the Pittsburgh Pirates, who held the Reds to one run over five innings.

Bryan Reynolds

An outfielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates.

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What they’re saying

“Oneil Cruz is just seeing the ball so well right now. He's a special talent and we're lucky to have him.”

— Derek Shelton, Pirates Manager

The takeaway

The Pirates' victory over the Reds showcases the team's promising young core, led by the red-hot Oneil Cruz, as they look to build on their success and challenge for a playoff spot in the NL Central.