Game 101: Pirates at Reds

Game day from Cincinnati, OH.
Probables: AJ Burnett (8-4, 2.68) vs. David Holmberg (0-0, 0.00)
Preview:
http://m.mlb.com/news/article/201507...game_pk=415177
"Bucs, Reds to renew acquaintances in Cincinnati
By Tom Singer / MLB.com | @Tom_Singer | + 1 COMMENTS
The Pirates and the Reds, for a change on opposite ends of the National League Central standings, begin an intriguing four-game series Thursday night at Great American Ball Park. As division peers, Cincinnati often spoiled things for the Bucs. Now Cincy manager Bryan Price's shuffled crew can really play the part of spoiler.
Stepping into the rotation spot vacated by Johnny Cueto's deal to Kansas City, lefty David Holmberg will make his first Major League start of the season, opposite Pittsburgh veteran A.J. Burnett. Holmberg represents the weekend's first test for the Pirates, who have had mixed success this season when seeing a starter for the first time. The Bucs will deal with the same situation on Saturday, against righty Raisel Iglesias.
Pirates manager Clint Hurdle, for one, will welcome a four-game series after a quick two-game set in Minnesota.
"The No. 1 thing about four-game series … they're very difficult to sweep. But you get to unpack, clear your bags, settle in a little," Hurdle said. "I actually enjoy it. You get to know the [opposition's] roster a little bit better, too."
Three things to know about this game
• Billy Hamilton's total of 27 career steals (in 33 attempts) against Pittsburgh is by far his most against any team; second on that log is the Cubs, with 20.
• This series sends the Pirates into a 13-game stretch that includes 10 against NL Central opponents; the Bucs enter the set 4-14 on the road versus division foes.
• Through Tuesday, the Pirates had turned 118 double plays in 99 games, on pace to tie the club record of 193.
Tom Singer is a reporter for MLB.com and writes an MLBlog Change for a Nickel. He can also be found on Twitter @Tom_Singer and on his podcast. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs."