Introduction
The Pirates vs Reds wild card game was an exciting and intense match-up between two of the National League’s top teams. The game took place on October 1, 2013, at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It was a do-or-die game for both teams, as the winner would advance to the NLDS and the loser would be eliminated from the playoffs.
The Pirates’ Road to the Wild Card Game
The Pittsburgh Pirates had a strong season in 2013, finishing with a record of 94-68. They were led by their pitching staff, which had the second-best ERA in the National League. The Pirates also had a solid offense, led by All-Star center fielder Andrew McCutchen.
Despite their strong season, the Pirates had to settle for a wild card spot, as they finished behind the St. Louis Cardinals in the NL Central division. To get to the wild card game, they had to win a one-game playoff against the Cincinnati Reds, which they did in convincing fashion, winning 6-2.
The Reds’ Road to the Wild Card Game
The Cincinnati Reds also had a strong season in 2013, finishing with a record of 90-72. They were led by their pitching staff, which had the third-best ERA in the National League. The Reds also had a potent offense, led by first baseman Joey Votto and second baseman Brandon Phillips.
The Reds finished in third place in the NL Central division, behind the Cardinals and the Pirates. To get to the wild card game, they had to win a one-game playoff against the Pittsburgh Pirates, which they lost 6-2.
The Wild Card Game
The wild card game between the Pirates and the Reds was a highly anticipated matchup. The winner would advance to the NLDS to face the Cardinals, while the loser would be eliminated from the playoffs.
The Pirates got off to a strong start, scoring two runs in the first inning off Reds starter Johnny Cueto. The Reds answered back in the fourth inning, scoring two runs of their own to tie the game.
The game remained tied until the bottom of the eighth inning, when Pirates outfielder Russell Martin hit a solo home run to give the Pirates a 3-2 lead. The Pirates’ bullpen then closed out the game in the ninth inning, securing the victory and a spot in the NLDS.
Key Players
There were several key players in the Pirates vs Reds wild card game. Pirates outfielder Russell Martin was the hero of the game, hitting the go-ahead home run in the eighth inning. Pirates starter Francisco Liriano also had a strong performance, pitching seven innings and allowing only two runs.
For the Reds, starting pitcher Johnny Cueto had a rough outing, allowing three runs in six innings. Third baseman Todd Frazier had a strong game, going 2-for-4 with a double and an RBI.
Conclusion
The Pirates vs Reds wild card game was a thrilling and intense matchup between two of the National League’s top teams. The Pirates were able to come out on top, thanks to a strong performance from their pitching staff and a clutch home run from outfielder Russell Martin.