Jordan Lyles and three relievers combined on a six-hitter as the Pittsburgh Pirates blanked the Cincinnati Reds 2-0 to open a four-game set at PNC Park. Cincinnati has now lost five straight games. The teams play again this evening with pregame at 5:35 on News Radio 95.3 FM/1230 AM WHOP.
Elsewhere in the National League: Max Fried took a perfect game into the sixth inning as the Atlanta Braves blasted the Chicago Cubs 9-4 at SunTrust Park. Fried allowed just a leadoff single in the sixth while striking out five and walking none in six innings for the win. The Braves welcome the Miami Marlins this evening while the Cubs play at the Milwaukee Brewers.
After an unexpected off day, the St. Louis Cardinals play their home opener this afternoon against the San Diego Padres. First pitch at Busch Stadium is at 3:15.