Nick Martinez Shines, Noelvi Marte Hits Three Doubles as Cincinnati Reds Edge Pittsburgh Pirates 2-1 on August 9, 2025

Saturday, August 9th, 2025

Cincinnati Reds Edge Out Pittsburgh Pirates 2-1, Snapping Losing Streak

The Cincinnati Reds secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates, breaking a three-game losing streak in a closely contested matchup on Saturday night.

Strong Pitching from Nick Martinez

Nick Martinez delivered an impressive performance, pitching seven efficient innings. He allowed only one run on four hits and two walks, while striking out four batters, earning his 10th win of the season.

Noelvi Marte Sparks Reds’ Offense

Noelvi Marte was the offensive standout for the Reds, notching three doubles—a new career high. He drove in one run and crossed home plate himself, playing a pivotal role in both of Cincinnati’s runs.

Game Highlights

In the fourth inning, Marte knocked in Spencer Steer from first base with a sharply hit double to left, tying the game at 1-1. Marte doubled again in the seventh and later scored the go-ahead run on TJ Friedl’s sacrifice fly. His third double came in the ninth inning, marking a personal milestone.

Pittsburgh initially took the lead in the third when Jared Triolo doubled and then scored on Tommy Pham’s sacrifice fly. Spencer Horwitz recorded two hits for the Pirates in a quiet night from the Pittsburgh offense.

Clutch Closing by Emilio Pagán

Emilio Pagán earned his 25th save, overcoming a leadoff walk in the ninth. The game concluded dramatically when shortstop Elly De La Cruz turned a sharp line drive into a game-ending double play.

Pitching Matchup and Bullpen Game

Carmen Mlodzinski, the second of five pitchers used by Pittsburgh in a bullpen game, suffered the loss, dropping his record to 2-7 for the season.

Key Moment

The turning point occurred when Marte’s first double narrowly stayed fair and rolled deep into the left-field corner, allowing Steer to score easily from first base.

Key Stat

The Reds have struggled offensively, scoring two runs or fewer in 40 games this season, including their last four consecutive matchups.

Up Next

The four-game series wraps up on Sunday. Reds right-hander Zack Littell (9-8, 3.46 ERA) is slated to face Pirates right-hander Mike Burrows (1-4, 4.45 ERA).

In summary

The Cincinnati Reds relied on strong pitching and timely hitting from Noelvi Marte to defeat the Pittsburgh Pirates 2-1, snapping a losing skid. With Martinez delivering a quality start and Pagán locking down the save, the Reds showcased resilience in a low-scoring contest. Key moments included Marte’s outstanding night at the plate and the Reds’ ability to capitalize on limited scoring opportunities. This win provides momentum as Cincinnati looks to claim the series finale and improve its offensive output moving forward.

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