The Pittsburgh Pirates are leading the Cincinnati Reds in their current series with a 2-0 advantage. Pittsburgh has been effective at home (31-32) and excels when out-hitting their opponents (44-14). The Pirates have key performers like Oneil Cruz, who has contributed significantly with 28 doubles, 18 home runs, and 63 RBIs, while Paul Skenes continues to impress as a rookie pitcher with a 2.16 ERA and 130 strikeouts in 17 starts. The Reds, currently 62-67 overall and struggling in one-run games (10-22), face challenges, especially with relief pitcher Buck Farmer starting due to Andrew Abbott's injury. Elly De La Cruz has been a standout for Cincinnati with a .260 average, 28 doubles, and 22 home runs.