Pittsburgh Pirates vs Cincinnati Reds Picks and Predictions May 20th 2025

Reds Riding Hot Streak While Pirates Turn to Falter to Stop the Bleeding

The Cincinnati Reds are one win away from their longest streak of the season. Riding high after a 7-1 series-opening win over the Pittsburgh Pirates on Monday night, the Reds have strung together five consecutive victories and seem to be heating up at just the right time.

On Tuesday, they’ll hand the ball to right-hander Nick Martinez (2-4, 3.66 ERA), who has found his rhythm after a rocky start to 2024. Martinez will go toe-to-toe with Pirates southpaw Bailey Falter (2-3, 4.02 ERA) in what could be a pivotal game in a series that means more than the standings suggest.

With postseason dreams still very much alive for both clubs, this NL Central clash is as much about building momentum as it is about tallying wins.

Want to track how these pitching matchups are shifting the betting lines? Visit the MLB Odds Page for real-time updates and advanced game insights.

Nick Martinez Finds His Groove on the Mound

The Nick Martinez we saw in April and the version taking the mound now are practically two different pitchers. After going 0-3 with a 6.00 ERA to start the year — including allowing four homers in his first four outings — Martinez has flipped the script over his past five starts.

He’s posted a 2.05 ERA with 21 strikeouts and just five walks, and most impressively, hasn’t allowed a single home run during that stretch. He’s giving the Reds exactly what they need: length, consistency, and composure.

“I want to be that guy the team can count on,” Martinez said after his seven-inning shutout of the White Sox last Thursday. “It’s about building trust and executing every pitch.”

His new approach is working. Martinez has lasted six or more innings in four straight starts — a far cry from his earlier outings where he struggled to get past the fifth. That improvement stems from better chemistry with his catchers and a tighter pitch plan.

“It’s all about trust,” Martinez said. “We’ve found a rhythm, and now I just focus on executing pitch by pitch.”

While he has a 5.40 ERA in six career appearances against Pittsburgh, Martinez appears poised to rewrite that narrative.

For expert picks on Martinez’s continued resurgence and the Reds’ betting value, check out the MLB Pick Page.

Pirates Turn to Falter, Hoping His May Magic Holds

The Pirates are desperate for a win — and Bailey Falter might be their best bet. While his last outing lasted just 3 2/3 innings against the Mets, it was still scoreless. The lefty allowed five walks and three hits, but the Pirates pulled off a 3-0 victory.

It was another sign that Falter, despite a few control hiccups, has been Pittsburgh’s most effective starter in May. Over his past three starts, he’s posted a dazzling 0.54 ERA while holding opponents to a .130 batting average.

“I was just out of sync,” Falter admitted about his last outing. “Five walks can’t happen. But I’m feeling confident in my stuff.”

That confidence will be critical on Tuesday night. The Pirates need a stopper, and Falter — who’s been lights-out this month — will need to keep Cincinnati’s suddenly red-hot offense in check.

Historically, Falter hasn’t fared well against the Reds. He’s 0-4 with a 6.81 ERA in nine career appearances against them, including seven starts. But if ever there was a time to buck a trend, this is it.

To stay updated on Pittsburgh’s rotation moves and injury reports, visit the MLB Team Page.

Defensive Missteps Continue to Haunt the Pirates

If the Pirates are going to break their four-game losing streak, they’ll need to clean things up defensively. A key sixth-inning throwing error by shortstop Isiah Kiner-Falefa led to the Reds’ go-ahead run on Monday — and opened the floodgates in what became a 7-1 loss.

It’s been a pattern. Despite solid efforts from the rotation, poor run support and defensive breakdowns have turned winnable games into losses.

Manager Don Kelly, elevated after Derek Shelton’s dismissal, isn’t shying away from calling for better focus.

“I want these guys playing with purpose,” Kelly said. “We can’t be out there trying not to make mistakes. That’s not baseball. I want them attacking the game, not playing scared.”

The rotation is doing its job — now it’s up to the bats and gloves to catch up.

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Reds Clicking on All Cylinders

While Pittsburgh searches for answers, Cincinnati is riding a wave of positivity. Monday’s game saw balanced hitting, timely pitching, and crisp defense — the kind of game managers dream about.

A six-run sixth inning blew the game open, and the Reds capitalized on every opportunity, including Pittsburgh’s fielding miscue. They’re not just winning; they’re dominating, outscoring opponents 30-13 during their five-game win streak.

Key contributors like Jonathan India and Tyler Stephenson have stepped up in recent games, while Nick Martini and Elly De La Cruz continue to generate energy both at the plate and on the bases.

Want to know how the Reds’ streak affects futures and props? Explore the Expert Betting Guide for deep-dive analysis and betting tips.

What’s at Stake for Both Clubs

For Cincinnati, this stretch could be the beginning of something special. With the offense rolling and the rotation finally delivering quality starts, the Reds have a chance to climb into the upper tier of the National League.

The Pirates, meanwhile, are trying to prevent a spiral. Another loss would make it five in a row and potentially shake the confidence of a young roster still adjusting to a new managerial voice.

As June approaches, games like these begin to mean more. Momentum can shift a season, and both teams know it.

FAQs

What has changed for Nick Martinez recently?
He’s found consistency in his pitch execution, improved chemistry with his catchers, and hasn’t allowed a home run over his last five starts.

Why is Bailey Falter key to the Pirates’ chances?
Despite a rough career history against the Reds, Falter has posted a 0.54 ERA and a .130 opponent batting average in May.

Why are the Pirates losing games despite good pitching?
Defensive errors and a lack of run support have cost Pittsburgh games they could’ve won, including Monday’s loss to the Reds.

How hot are the Reds right now?
Cincinnati is on a five-game winning streak, outscoring opponents by 17 runs during the stretch. They’ve been firing on all cylinders.

Where can I find expert Reds vs. Pirates betting picks?
Check out the MLB Pick Page for trusted predictions, odds breakdowns, and betting strategy.

How has Pittsburgh’s manager change affected the team?
Don Kelly has emphasized aggressive play and defensive focus. However, the team is still struggling with execution during high-leverage moments.