The Cincinnati Reds and Pittsburgh Pirates are set to ignite their storied NL Central rivalry once again. This upcoming "reds vs pirates" series brings high stakes as both teams look to shape their seasons and gain ground in the division.

Reds vs Pirates: Current Momentum

The Cincinnati Reds enter this matchup riding a significant hot streak. After sweeping the Cleveland Guardians, the Reds are showing the kind of form fans had hoped for all season. The Pirates, meanwhile, are struggling to find their footing, sitting at the bottom of the division and facing offensive challenges that have hampered their progress.

If you’re interested in deeper statistics and context, Red Reporter provides an in-depth preview, breaking down both teams’ recent performance and the pitching matchups to watch.

Series Schedule & Pitching Matchups

This three-game set features some intriguing battles on the mound:

• Monday, May 19 (6:40 PM ET): LHP Nick Lodolo (Reds) vs. RHP Mitch Keller (Pirates)
• Tuesday, May 20 (6:40 PM ET): RHP Nick Martinez (Reds) vs. LHP Bailey Falter (Pirates)
• Wednesday, May 21 (12:35 PM ET): RHP Brady Singer (Reds) vs. LHP Andrew Heaney (Pirates)

The Reds won’t have to face Pirates ace Paul Skenes, a huge relief given his electric presence on the mound. Conversely, Cincinnati’s own star, Hunter Greene, remains sidelined, though the Reds have managed to adapt well in his absence.

What to Watch: Key Storylines

• Offensive Comparisons: The Pirates have the lowest slugging percentage in the league, while the Reds aim to capitalize on their current form. The Red Reporter analysis highlights how Pittsburgh’s offensive woes could tip the scale in Cincinnati’s favor.
• Pitching Duels: Southpaw Nick Lodolo will be key for Cincinnati in the opener. With the Pirates sending left-handers to the mound later in the series, keep an eye on whether the Reds lineup—especially Will Benson—can sustain its momentum against tough matchups.

How to Watch Reds vs Pirates

Fans can catch every pitch live and blackout-free with multiple viewing options. Newsweek’s live stream guide provides a detailed breakdown of channels and streaming platforms, so you won’t miss a moment.

• FanDuel Sports Network will broadcast all three games.
• Monday’s opener airs nationally on FS1 for extra accessibility.
• If you’re out of market, MLB.tv also offers reliable coverage.

Series Outlook

This "reds vs pirates" showdown has all the ingredients for an exciting division clash. The Reds strive to keep their momentum alive, while the Pirates aim to play spoiler and regroup. Every game matters as the NL Central race heats up.

Don’t forget to follow the latest updates and analysis throughout the series. For more detailed previews and recaps, check out Red Reporter and stay tuned via Newsweek’s game-day coverage. Who will come out on top? The answer will unfold on the field this week.