In the opening game of a four-game series, the Cincinnati Reds defeat the Pittsburgh Pirates 3-2 on Thursday night. Elly De La Cruz delivers the decisive run in the ninth inning, scoring on a fielder’s choice. Cincinnati takes advantage of a late scoring opportunity by loading the bases against Pirates reliever Gregory Soto. With one out, Lowe hits a ground ball softly to second that could have resulted in a game-ending double play. However, Lowe beats the throw, allowing De La Cruz to score easily and putting the Reds ahead for good. The game remains close through the final innings, but Cincinnati holds on to secure the one-run win. Both teams’ late-inning performance determines the outcome, with the Reds executing effectively on the bases in the ninth and the Pirates unable to prevent the tying run from slipping through.