When it comes to the Pirates, I won't go against Paul Skenes and I have great respect for the backend of their bullpen. Other than that, though, the Pirates are fair game. I'm going against them today in a pitching matchup of Nick Lodolo vs Bailey Falter.

The Reds are 8-2 in Lodolo's starts this season. Lodolo has a 2.93 ERA. He's been even better on the road with a 2.55 ERA. Lodolo has surrendered just six earned runs during his past four starts spanning 23 1/3 innings.

Falter is not in good form giving up eight runs and 16 hits in his past two starts spanning eight innings. Pittsburgh is 3-7 in Falter's starts this year.

Falter has a career 7.79 ERA against the Reds in five games, including three starts.