Pirates Defeat Reds in Series Finale

Oneil Cruz's three-run blast and Paul Skenes' strong outing lead Pittsburgh to series win

Apr. 2, 2026 at 5:16am

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The Pittsburgh Pirates defeated the Cincinnati Reds 6-1 on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, behind a three-run home run from Oneil Cruz and a solid five-inning performance from pitcher Paul Skenes. Cruz's blast in the sixth inning broke the game open, while Skenes allowed just one run to earn the win.

Why it matters

The victory gives the Pirates a series win over their NL Central division rivals, the Reds, and keeps them in contention in the tight divisional race. Skenes' strong outing also continues his impressive start to the season, solidifying his role as a key part of the Pirates' pitching rotation.

The details

Oneil Cruz hit a three-run home run in the sixth inning to give the Pirates a 5-1 lead. Starting pitcher Paul Skenes allowed just one run on five hits over five innings, striking out six batters to earn the win. The Pirates' bullpen held the Reds scoreless over the final four innings to secure the victory.

  • The game was played on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.
  • Cruz's three-run homer came in the sixth inning.

The players

Oneil Cruz

A 24-year-old outfielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates who hit a key three-run home run in the sixth inning to lead his team to victory.

Paul Skenes

The 26-year-old starting pitcher for the Pittsburgh Pirates who threw five strong innings, allowing just one run, to earn the win.

Cincinnati Reds

The National League Central division rivals of the Pittsburgh Pirates, who were defeated in this series finale matchup.

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What they’re saying

“Oneil has been swinging a hot bat for us, and that big home run was a huge momentum shift in the game.”

— Derek Shelton, Pittsburgh Pirates Manager

“Paul did a great job of keeping us off balance and limiting the damage. We just couldn't get the big hit when we needed it.”

— David Bell, Cincinnati Reds Manager

What’s next

The Pirates will look to build on this series win as they continue their NL Central division schedule, while the Reds will aim to bounce back in their next series.

The takeaway

The Pirates' victory showcases their offensive firepower and pitching depth, which will be crucial as they compete for a playoff spot in the highly competitive NL Central. Skenes' strong outing also demonstrates the team's ability to get quality starts from their rotation.